GlassesUSA.com

When I was 12 I wanted eyeglasses so bad.  I thought it was so cool and grownup to wear glasses that I begged my mother to take me for an eye exam, even complaining that I couldn't see the blackboard very well in school.  There was truth to it, but I just really wanted glasses.  About a week after my first eye exam, I had my first pair of prescription eyeglasses and have been wearing glasses ever since.

When wearing glasses your makeup is just as important as any other day.  Don't neglect your eye makeup, but don't go too over the top either.  You want to subtly accentuate the eyes making them stand out from behind your glasses.  I used to think that no one noticed my eyes behind my glasses, but have since I changed that way of thinking.  I like to stay with a neutral eye with just a slight bit if glimmer on the lid and thin black liner on my top lash line.  (I go very thin on the liner)  I then curl my lashes applying a volumizing mascara and fill in my brows.  I also like to use a nude color liner on my bottom water line.  This makes your eyes appear larger which is especially important when wearing glasses for nearsightedness as depending on the power of your prescription, the lens can make your eyes appear smaller than they are.  To balance off the look, I like to use a bright color on my lips.

I buy a good majority of my makeup online.  I love the ease of turning on my computer ordering the items I am out of or want to try and not having to rush to the store.  And now I can even buy my glasses online as easily as I bought the eye make-up I pair with them.

GlassesUSA.com has a great selection of eyeglasses that fit any budget.  With prices starting under $40  (including lens) not only can you find cheap eyeglasses, but with their new virtual mirror feature, you can try on any pair virtually.  I had so much fun with this! 

GlassesUSA.com is giving my readers 15% off AND free shipping on orders over $50 with coupon code FS15, or 10% off any order of prescription glasses (no minimum purchase required) with code Blog10.

Disclaimer:  While this is a sponsored post  by GlassesUSA.com, all options expressed are my own.

Glossybox: Man Repeller

I haven't done a sample box unboxing for a while.  It wasn't intentional, but it was just difficult over the holidays and my last few Glossyboxes have been a bit late.  This box was actually the January box, but I didn't get it until this month.

For the month of January, Glossybox partnered with Fashion blogger Leandra Medine of Man Repeller to create a collection of Leandra's favorite things.  Glossybox received an overwhelming response and because of that, shipping was delayed for some of us.  

First off, if I haven't already said it, let me tell you how much I love the packaging/presentation of Glossyboxes in general.  The boxes themselves are so gorgeous, I reuse them for gifts, for storage, for vanity trays.  I was happy that this particular box was gray, adding some variety to my collection of pink boxes.  This box had a Man Repeller sticker across the top.

I received the following 7 products:

Estee Lauder Sumptuous Extreme Last Multiplying Volume Mascara
Fresh Umbrian Clay Mattifying Serum
Le Metier De Beaute Replenishing Daily Solution
Narciso Rodriguez for her Eau de Toilette Spray
OPI 'Can't Let Go' Liquid Sand Nail Lacquer
Sebastian Professional Potion 9
Tarte Achiote cheek tint

Estee Lauder Sumptuous Extreme Last Multiplying Volume Mascara - Three different high-volume fibers create audacious, false-lash effects. Lustrous color leaves eyes brighter, wider, more seductive than ever. Build bigger, bolder, more extreme lashes at the Estée Lauder counter today. Full Size, $25/.27 oz

The Benefit They're Real Mascara has been my holy grail mascara since it first came out.  I loved how it gave me full long lashes.  After using this mascara from Estee Lauder for the past few weeks, I don't know if I will go back to the Benefit one.  I have never really gave Estee Lauder much thought until this and OMG, I think this may become my new holy grail.  This makes my lashes just as full and long, if not fuller and longer, than the Benefit and just gives him a more softer finish.  I am definitely going to buy this full size.  

The sample size I received was .1 oz (pictured), so based on the price of the full-size, the sample is a $9.26 value.

Fresh Umbrian Clay Mattifying Serum - Umbrian Clay, Fresh’s proprietary ingredient, has a uniquely high-mineral content that works to neutralize acidity, purifying and clarifying the complexion. This treatment formula tones and hydrates while controlling shine and minimizing the appearance of pores. Full Size, $35/1 oz

I have not yet used this product.  I don't really need a new serum so I don't know if I will really use this.  It has a nice fresh, slightly herbal scent.  I think I will put it in my travel case so next time I travel I won't have to bring a full size serum with me.  

The sample size I received was .17 oz (pictured), making the sample a $5.95 value based on the full size price.

Le Metier De Beaute Replenishing Daily Solution - This highly emollient cream is designed to condition and hydrate while it nourishes and detoxifies—the formula normalizes the skin's moisture content to provide unparalleled suppleness. Broad-spectrum SPF 30 protects the skin damaging UVA/UVB rays. Full Size, $225/1.17 oz

This is another product that I have not tried yet.  I really want to and have heard fantastic things about it.  I am just kind of scared that I am going to fall in love with it and given the full size price, I don't know if I can put myself through that.

The sample size I received was .10 oz (pictured), making the sample a value of  $19.23.

Narciso Rodriguez for her Eau de Toilette Spray - A fragrant harmony of music, intimately refined with a floral facet developing gently and slowly, rounding out into the feminine warm tones of sun-kissed skin, dusted in soft, velvet-like sensuality. Full Size, $77/1.6 oz; $104/3.3 oz

If you subscribe to more than one sample box on a regular basis, you probably get more perfume samples that you probably know what to do with.  I usually give them a quick smell and toss them in a drawer and forget about them.  I almost did that with this one, but decided to give it a chance.  It's not something I would have normally even thought I would have liked, but I LOVED it!  I used the entire sample vial within the first week (yes I probably wear more perfume than I need to) I don't normally like warm scents, but this smelled fantastic and stayed on me throughout the day.  I have Sephora gift cards burning a hole in my pocket and trying to justify spending them on yet another perfume.  

The sample size I received was .03 oz (pictured).  Based on the prices of the full-sizes, the sample is valued at about $1.20 (averaging the two prices).

OPI 'Can't Let Go' Liquid Sand Nail Lacquer - A unique matte purple shade with subtle accents of reflective shimmer. This long wearing liquid sand lacquer dries to a matte finish which means no top coat is necessary! Apply base coat and two coats of color for full opacity. Full Size, $9/.5oz

The color itself isn't really my thing, but I really like the textured finish.  It dried a bit gritty, which is kind of cool.  I would love this in a blue red.  I think I may probably use this color on my toes in the summer.  

I received a full size product.

Sebastian Professional Potion 9 - The ultimate versatile styling cream infused with nine botanical extracts to help restore lost moisture and rejuvenate the healthy look of your hair. Perfect for styling your wet or dry hair into multiple looks with flexible hold. Full Size, $19/5.1 oz.

This is another product that I haven't used it, yet one that has been around for years.  I actually kind of forgot that I received this,  but I will probably use it over the next few days.

I received a 1.7 oz product, making it a $6.33 value based on the full size price.

Tarte Achiote cheek tint - The warm Achiotè shade melts into the skin for a subtle glow that is universally flattering. Creamy and long-wearing, the buildable blush fuses the ease and blendability of a cream blush with a soft-focus and airbrushed finish. Full Size, $26/.19

I was most excited about this product when I first opened my box.  First of all, it is a pre-release and not even available in the store until March, so it was exciting to be among the first to try it.  I am not going to lie, I am a bit intimidated by cream blush.  This one is nice because it is a cheek tint, so it is not overly pigmented.  In fact, it gives just a very subtle amount of color.  I like this for work or for a very natural look.  I will probably keep this in my purse for when I touch up my look mid-day at work.  When I am just touching up, I like to use products that I don't have to think too much about, and can just apply with my fingers.  I currently don't even carry blush with me and will just use a small amount of tinted lip balm blended out on my cheeks.

I thought the size included was full size, but it turns out it is .14 oz, just slightly smaller than the full size.  It is a pretty generous size and valued at $19.16 based on the $26 price tag of the full size.

If you were to purchase all the full size products featured in this box, it would cost $443.  Given the size of each sample size, this box is a $70.13 value. 


I have been subscribed to Glossybox since I believe their second US box.  I wasn't sure if I was going to keep the service after the first couple of boxes that I received, but it has definitely grown on me.  Product wise, I find it the most valuable.  They aren't on a consistent schedule each month with billing and shipping, and some months I don't get my box until the very very end of the month.   I didn't get my January box until February 4th, which was kind of annoying.  They gave the reason that they received a huge demand for the box, which I do get, however don't accept orders you can't fulfill and make the customers that have been with you since the very beginning wait until the following month to get their box.   I was so super annoyed by that but the box was worth the wait.  Although, I don't know if I would continue paying  $21 a month much longer if it continued to happen.

For more information on Glossybox, visit their website HERE.


Disclaimer:  I purchased the Glossybox on my own and am not being compensated.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Quote of the Week

This week's quotes come from a woman with whom I share a birthday with.  Elizabeth Taylor would have celebrated her 81st birthday this Wednesday.

Friday Faves

I love that Carmell of The Giacobbe Diaries has something for everyone on her blog.  She does some amazing DYIs (check out her Pet Canvas Project), chronicled her home make-over, and I love her Sunday's Words to Live By.  She is also mom to Baby A who just might be the most gorgeous baby girl on the planet!

I am obsessed with everything Lucy wear's.  This girl has the most amazing sense of style.  I also really love her Skincare Sundays.


Nouveau Cheap

G's blog is the bible for any beauty blogger who loves a great drug store product.  If it is hitting drug store shelves, G knows about it.

I discovered chole + isabel on kellydillon.com and seriously want EVERYTHING!  Let's just face it.  I love inexpensive jewelry that looks great so this is a no brainer for me.

Homemint.com is by far my favorite of all the beachmint brands.  Not only do you already save a significant amount by becoming a member, but they also do some amazing blowout sale. (You can currently save 70% when you spend $300 or more - that's like get $300 of items for $90!!)

Lonny is a home design and decor magazine highlighting extraordinary homes, interior designers, and creative decorating ideas. I could lose an entire afternoon scouring their website at all the articles.

Pangea Organics Facial Mask Product Review

I first heard of Pangea Organics about a year ago watching Youtube Guru Nikki Phillipi's 2011 Favorites video.  In the video she lists their Japanese Matcha Tea with Acai and Goji Berry Facial Mask as one of her favorites explaining that "it just makes her skin look better."  That extremely highly descriptive explanation made me instantly run out buy it.  

  

Pangea Organics is a socially responsible company creating ecocentric body care and gorgeous skincare that nourishes the body. All Pangea products are luxurious while still being organic, fair-trade, and cruelty-free. Their commitment to high-quality organic ingredients means more antioxidants and fewer fillers.

This mask is a gritty thick moss colored clay with a very strong herbal smell.   You apply a even layer to clean skin and leave on for 10-20 minutes.  Within that time, the mask dries and turns a lighter shade green.  To remove, you wet your hands and massage the mask into your skin.  This does take a little work as you need to completely rewet the mask in order to remove.

This mask purges the skin pulling all impurities out to the surface.  If you have any pimples forming under the skin it is going to bring them right out.  If you do have acne prone skin, I would suggest planning your first use for a time that you don't have many plans the few days after because you will probably experience some breakout.  After my initial use, I noticed my skin to be much smoother and soft.  I also  feel like my skin has a great glow immediately after using.

My one issue with this product is that it can be very messy and ends up all over my vanity.  The grit and pieces in the mask gets over everything and  tends to slow my drain.   When using this mask, I typically wash my face and apply about 20 minutes before a shower so I can rub off in the shower and allow the "mess" to just rinse down the drain.

While I really love this mask and really want to use it more often, it is just so messy to remove that I don't use it as much as I would like.  If it wasn't for the mess, this would be my absolute favorite skincare product.

Have you ever tried Pangea Organics Japanese Matcha Tea with Acai and Goji Berry Facial Mask?  What do you thin? Are there any other Pangea Organics products that you would recommend?

Disclaimer:  This is not a sponsored review, nor was I compensated for this review.  All items mentioned were purchased my me.  All opinions

expressed are my own.  

Quote of the Week

Source unknown

Sunday Lusts

Basic Messenger Bag, Zara - While this is a messenger bag, I would love to take the strap off and use this as a clutch.  I love the brown paper bag feel to this, making it so simple and effortless.

Alight Multi Mineral BB Cream, Pacifica - I have been kind of indifferent about BB Creams lately.  I think it is because my skin tone is a tad too dark for Asian BB Creams and the American Brands just haven't really lived up to the hype.  I really love the Pacifica brand and just recently tried their Purify Coconut Water Cleansing Wipes and love them, that I really want to give  their BB cream a try.

Today is an Opportunity Charm Bracelet, Alex and Ani -  I don't currently own an Alex and Ani Bracelet, but since I love accessories that clatter I have been wanting one of their charm bracelets for a while now.  20% of the sales of the Today is an Opportunity Charm Bracelet goes to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, which is a charity very near and dear to my heart and one that I have supported for a number of years.

Cane Throw, COCOCOZY

Spike & Pyramid Stud Duo, chloe + isabel - I was just introduced to chloe + isabel jewelry thanks to NYC Traffic Reporter and Fashion Blogger, Kelly Dillon and I am obsessed with everything.  It's no secret how much I love jewelry and chloe + isabel has some amazing pieces at really good prices.

A Few of my Favorite Things

It has been a long few weeks.  I have been working late most nights, not giving me a lot of time to do much of anything on weeknights so when the weekend comes I try to catch up on any other errands and tasks that I wasn't able to do during the week.  When that happens, I always try to take small moments to indulge in some of my favorite things, whether it is a favorite show or just the scent of my favorite candle.  

Here are my top five favorite things right now.

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Vanderpump Rules - I am a sucker for Reality TV, especially shows set in gorgeous surroundings with a gorgeous cast.  Yes I know its shallow, especially when the story line is who slept with who, but it is my guilty pleasure.  And I can't wait to find out if Stassi and Jax get back together.

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I was talking to coworker recently about things to give up for Lent, when they suggested chocolate.  I told them that was impossible since Easter is prime Cadbury Mini Eggs season.

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Pink Sands has been my favorite sent lately.  I have it in my car, in my bedroom and in my office.  Despite the cold temperatures and the snow on the ground, the scent brings me to to a warm tropical place.

I drank a lot of coffee while I was house bound last week due to the blizzard.  Whenever there is a fresh layer of snow on the ground, I want nothing more then to cozy up with a hot cup of coffee.  I almost went through an entire bottle of Coffee Mate White Chocolate Caramel Latte Creamer and have been looking to get my hands on another bottle ever since.

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I am sitting here in an empty room with no furniture other than my bed and nightstand, and boxes lining the walls.  I ordered new bedroom furniture that is scheduled to be delivered on Saturday.  All week I have been planning other "touches" that I need and have been scouring IKEA.com. As soon as my furniture is delivered on Saturday, I am off to IKEA for this and this and maybe this.

What are some of your current favorite indulgences?

Quote of the Week

Surviving Nemo

Hi Everyone!  As I mentioned in my post on Friday, a blizzard hit the Northeast this past weekend.  (Some are referring to it as Nemo based on the name given by the Weather Channel) I have been hunkered down for the last few days at home.  The storm hit on Friday and into Saturday dropping a reported 25 inches where I am.  I really thought it was going to give me lots of free time to blog and catch up on some work, but it has been a very long 72 hours around here and I haven't been able to do much of either.  

The winds were so bad on Friday during the storm that I really thought we were going to lose power or that my windows were going to come crashing in.  (I actually started devising a game plan in my head in the event that that happen - thank god it didn't because my plan sucked)  I tried to stay off all electronic devices (laptop, phone, iPad) and leave them charging in case I did in fact lose power. (Thankfully that didn't happen either) I did use the time to clean out drawers, move stuff to storage and go through all my old make-up.  (Now I have an excuse to go to Sephora)

The storm ended at about noon yesterday which left SOOO much to be cleaned-up.  I shoveled most of the day yesterday and with aching bones then did nothing but nothing today.  

I am actually really looking forward to getting dressed and going to work tomorrow!  

Shortly after the storm ended we were lucky to get some sunshine yesterday and today, so I was able to sneak in some product photos.   I hope (fingers crossed) to get them in posts this week.

If you are in the Northeast, I hope you stayed safe this weekend.  What were the snow totals where you live?

Friday Faves

Hi Everyone!  I hope you all had a fantastic week!  There is a huge storm hitting the Northeast today expected to dump about 2 feet of snow in the region.  Most (all ???) businesses and schools were closed and a state-wide driving ban went into effect at 4 pm (with a hefty fine if you are out on the roads)  My company decided yesterday to close today so I considered having a lazy day at home but decided to do some cleaning.  I put in almost a full day of boxing up unused clothes, throwing out old expired make-up and moving furniture.  Now that that is done, here are this week's Friday Faves!

Rachel of Blush and Brunch is a 20 something American girl living in Hong Kong.  I love her amazing product reviews and all the fabulous photos she uses throughout her blog.  Living in Asia, she has access to so many amazing beauty products.  I first heard of the Tony Moly Petite Bunny Gloss Bars on her blog and have been lusting after them every since.  She is even giving one lucky reader a chance to win one along with some other great products now through February 17th HERE.

LA DOLCE VITA
Paloma's blog is one of my favorites to read for decorating tips and inspiration.  Her blog is one of the very first that I started reading religiously and I absolutely fall in love with just about everything I see on her blog.

Lynsey has a little bit of everything on her blog.  I love her use of photo collages to illustrate her fashion posts and she also has great eye for decor.  I especially love the post she did on on while desks.

Perpetual kid always makes me giggle at all the funny odds and ends.  You can find anything from clothing to office products, all with a sense of humor.

I love Mod Cloth because they have just about everything and you can score some fantastic vintage items.

Urban Barn is a great site to reference while redecorating.  I love their online room planner.

 The Everygirl is not another blog, it is an online magazine with everything from beauty and fashion to politics and job postings.  They even had downloadable "handbooks" on topics such a creating a week's full of recipes for under $50 and planning a backyard bridal shower.

What were your favorites websites this week?

If you in the Northeast and in the midst of the blizzard, stay safe, stay warm, and stay in doors!