All Things Beautiful XO

Stephanie Louise Telford & her guide on beauty, style, & glitter!

Sally Girl Baked Eyeshadows and Swatches!

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So if you guys saw my Sally Beauty Supply Haul post from earlier, then you know how excited I was to swatch these babies! I wasn’t dissapointed! Check out the 6 shades I picked up, all very wearable and versitile. Some brights, some neutrals, all baked so they are actually two shades.
 Check out the dry swatches in artificial light and with flash. Below that, the wet swatches combined with the dry so you can see the range of effects. From vibrant to sheer, very impressive!
 Dry with flash.
 Dry in artificial light.
From Wet to Dry (Vibrant to Sheer) with flash
From Wet to Dry (Vibrant to Sheer) in artificial light.
In love with them so far, I’ll be showing you some looks soon! I’m currently NOT wearing eyeshadow…for 4 whole days starting yesterday! I’m testing out a new product which I can’t wait to show you guys…any guesses?

Any specific shades you want to see looks for? I’m digging that copper for fall most definitely!

Urban Decay Loose Shadows Review and How to Use Them!

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If you saw my Urban Decay Haul Post yesterday, then you know I stocked up on loose shadows! With beautiful colors and a pretty decent selection, I was already planning to pick a few up. Then…the sale hit. $1 for each? Yeah I couldn’t pass that up. With adorable packaging, unique colors, and the Urban Decay seal I knew it was too good to pass up. Everyone who follows me on twitter has been asking for how I use these because some people had issues. Keep reading and I promise I’ll explain how to use them to make stunning eye looks with less fallout AND less mess!


So here are the pigments I picked up, I got all 10 of them. Some of them are the loose form of my favorite Urban Decay colors (Shag & Smog especially!) so I knew I would love at least a few of them. The packaging is adorable, as with all Urban Decay products. Purple metallic tubes, fun bottle shape, and a peekaboo bottom section so you can see the pigment. Oddly enough, one of my favorite things is the sticks at the base of each pigment. Not only does it have the shade on it (duh) but the sticker is also the same COLOR making it super easy to differentiate between them!

First is No Flash & Second With Flash.

Urban Decay Loose Eyeshadows from left to right: Rockstar, Shag, Protest, Shattered, Smog, Asphyxia, Goddess, X, Graffiti, Gunmetal.

I had read a lot of reviews about these and here are some of the issues I was concerned about: fallout, difficult to use, messy. So after receiving them, these were the first things I wanted to evaluate!
Fallout: There’s always a bit of fallout with loose shadows IMHO. The best ways to counteract that is with a primer and (most importantly) application. You can’t apply loose shadow the same as pressed because its completely different. Instead, use a patting motion, taking care to tap of excess before applying. You can layer like with any eyeshadow, in some cases even better. You have a lot of blending options as well.

Difficult to Use: I think this relates back to my tips about fallout, but there is a bit more to it. With this product in particular, there is a learning curve. When you open the container you should immediately note that taking the included brush directly to your lids will be difficult. Why? You won’t have much control, you will make a mess because the pigment climbs up the sides of the bottle as it is moved around, the brush isn’t made for this. From playing around with this, 100% of this problem was cured by using this brush to “paint” the loose pigment onto my standard makeup brushes. If you use a smaller brush, you can even dip straight into the container which I prefer. Just don’t forget to tap off the excess!

Messy: If you combine tips from the above two issues, this should clear up a lot of the mess. With loose shadows, its hard not to have a little bit of a mess. Remember to use a primer and tap off the excess and you should be golden!

All in all, I’m thrilled with my purchases. Would I have bought all of them at full price? No. But at the sale price, it was well worth the leap of faith!
Questions & Comments are always appreciated! Any requested looks?

Review: Ginger Essence from Origins

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 What it is: A fragrance scented with natural tones, mainly ginger. Described as a  “sensuous skin scent”.

What Origins says about this product: Ancient Chinese tradition holds that where there’s yin, there must be yang. And so the fragrant fire of spicy ginger is balanced by the refreshing zeal of bergamot, lemon and lime to create a sensuous synergy between warm and cool, energy and calm, tempest and tranquility. Skin is surrounded in an enticing aroma that’s impossible to resist.
How to use: Spray on all-over, as desired. Pay particular attention to pulse points (neck, wrists and inside elbows) to enhance the fragrance’s warming, sensual characteristics.
 
Why I love it: This is definitely one of the sexiest scents I own, and definitely the most earthy in that category. Sometimes alluring scents are too musky or strong for me, but scent has the perfect balance of sexy and natural. Without being too obvious, Ginger Essence manages to awaken my senses in the morning as citrus often does. 
With an energy infused feel and a sexy/spicy scent, I found myself wearing this for nearly any occasion. I feel like this is the best way to smell enticing effortlessly and doesn’t smell too young or cheap. I feel sophisticated-sexy when I wear this, and my husband definitely noticed. Maybe the Chinese did have the right idea! It blended into my skin without being harsh and lasted as long as my Lola by Marc Jacobs, one of my longest lasting fragrances by far.
 
On the Origins website you can see all kinds of details, including the history of ginger, components of this fragrance, and so much more. You can also read lots of reviews, most of them raving about how wonderful this scent is. Check out a few clips from the website:

I just wanted to point out this bar at the bottom here. This is on the Origins’ website under every product, but I feel it can be easily overlooked. Check out the cool features they provide you with and educate yourself about the products quickly and simply!

Where you can get it: Priced at $39.50 for 1.7 oz, I actually felt like it had twice as much in it. Because it lasted so long, plus you only need 1-2 spritzes (neck/wrists, more if desired), I feel like this will last me a really long time. Origins stores or you can purchase on their website  (HERE). If you aren’t sure how you’ll like this scent (yes it is quite different!) go into an Origins store and use a tester. You can smell the fragrance and test out how long it lasts on you!

*Item(s) sent to me for review are featured in this post. This in no way guarantees coverage. All of my reviews and reactions are honest, I would never recommend something that didn’t deserve it. For more information, please see my disclosure policy in the top bar.*

Mani of the Day: Confetti Tazmanian Devil & LA Colors Pacific Blue

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Happy Saturday to all! Today I bring you my manicure I put on last night. I loved Confetti’s Nail Color in Tazmanian Devil so much I decided to see how I liked it on my nails! I like this as a glitter polish quite a bit. I’m not exactly sure why, but I feel its a more grown up rainbow glitter polish. Also is my first post featuring my LA Colors Nail Polish in Pacific Blue. I’m loving it. I’d easily wear this alone except I’m going to be packing all day and figured the glitter would create a decent barrier. Hope you enjoy! * No top coat today!*
If you like what you read, please follow & subscribe!
xoxoxo 
Stephanie Louise


*Item(s) sent to me for review are featured in this post. This in no way guarantees coverage. All of my reviews and reactions are honest, I would never recommend something that didn’t deserve it. For more information, please see my disclosure policy in the top bar.*

FAB Friday: Fall Jewelry Preview

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FAB Friday=Fabulous Accessory or Bauble Friday

My newest obsession is  picking out jewelry for Fall. With this heat and the stress of moving, I’m definitely looking forward to being settled into our new house. For me, Fall is about greens, oranges, bronzes, yellows, and different types of metals to add some interest. Some is new, some is ancient, all of it is going to get a lot of use this season.

 

I love this design. Chunky shapes and textures make this fun and veer away from the fragile leaves and flowers I often see. The thick chain makes it tougher so you can pair it with a girly outfit without feeling over the top. The coloring of the metal also makes it edgier. Vera Wang for Kohls.
I’m a bit iffy about Amber jewelry, the whole dead stuff in my necklace thing most likely. But amber shades are gorgeous. These beads are multi-toned amber crystals (not the plastic type) grouped together on a long golden chain. Charlotte Russe.
There are so many reasons why Goldstone is one of my absolute favorite stones. Sparkly and dramatic, this type of jewelry always catches my eye. This is a simple strand, you can buy the beads and do this yourself! With their simple shape, glittering tones, and orange coloring they will fit right into your Fall wardrobe.
I love the natural cut of this stone mixed with the dyed coloring. Bohemian, but not too hippie. The additional charms at the top of the focal stone add more interest and detailing. On a long chain, it has visual interest on both sides so if it flips over, no one will notice. Forever 21.

Edgy with a pop of color, this heavily chained necklace catches the eye. Although maybe not as versatile as some of the others, the detailing on the beads makes it worth it. These are clear beads with an orange type of netting on top which I like better than the lacy trend going on right now. I love all the different sizes of chains because I can wear it under a jacket and not worry about snagging anything. Vera Wang for Kohls.

Pedicure: Confetti Nail Color in Lonesome Dove & Tazmanian Devil

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So normally I don’t show off pedicures, but I am LOVING this one! I picked these up for $1.99 at CVS while I was in California. Confetti Long Wearing Nail Color isn’t a brand I’ve picked up often, but I will from now on!

 Left is Confetti Nail Color in Tazmanian Devel and right is Confetti Nail Color in Lonesome Dove.

 

Check out all the colors, I love it! It actually only took one medium glitter coat too!
So far this has lasted 2.5 weeks without any chips!

Wet n Wild: Ultimate Minerals Blushes & Bronzer Mega Review

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So I was so excited when I got these, and there are multiple reasons why:
  • Great Pigmentation
  • New Packaging Idea
  • Brand I Trust
  • Minerals for Summer Heat
 Here they are from the top! This top is a screw on, but it is secured internally!
You never know how new packaging will go, luckily this is awesome. Some people are kind of confused about how it works, so here’s my take on it!
Lid Closed…
Lid Open!
To keep the product contained, their new lid keeps everything in the bottom unlike a regular sifter. A few have commented that they don’t like this because they can’t get the product out. For me the issue has always been keeping the product INSIDE a sifter/container and NOT all over everything else around me. I simply open the lid, open the divider flap, tap some product into the lid and then put it on top of the sifter. When I’m done all I have to do is close the divider flap. No mess, no fussy, and no blush where it shouldn’t be…AKA my walls, clothes, dog….etc. 
(Here you can see the “divider flap” & the nubs that keep the blush in the container.)
 (& here you can see how big the blushes are and both lids. See…it is like a cup!)
Here are the shades I received:
 Top to bottom: Bronzer in- Amber Glow. Blushes in- Pinched Pink, Rose Shimmer, & Purely Mauve.
Here they are swatched, first with flash and second without. Names from left to right: Amber Glow (bronzer), Pinched Pink, Rose Shimmer, & Purely Mauve.

Overall:
Great color payoff, these are all one sweep. In testing, color is buildable…but that could be tricky because you really don’t need much to begin with. Nice variety. I love the Rose Shimmer. I feel the name is a bit decieving because I find it to be a lovely peachy/pink. Purely Mauve is probably the most wearable day-to-day. Pinched Pink is awesome because it has a much lighter shimmer but isn’t completely matte while still being vibrant. I don’t use sparkly bronzers all over my fave, but I think Amber Glow will make an awesome bronzey highlight!

Do you own any Wet N Wild Ultimate Minerals Loose Blushes or Bronzers? I’d love to hear your favorite colors and what YOU think about the packaging!

*Item(s) sent to me for review are featured in this post. This in no way guarantees coverage. All of my reviews and reactions are honest, I would never recommend something that didn’t deserve it. For more information, please see my disclosure policy in the top bar.*

6 Amazing Products to Beat Summer Feet!

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So yesterday I got some questions about products I love for foot care after posting my recipe for Pumpkin Foot Scrub. Here are some of my absolute favorites!!!
1. Freeman Bare Foot Repair! for Callus Softening

What it is: Gently exfoliates rough, dry skin without the use of harsh abrasives. Paraffin helps to smooth and soften leaving skin feeling buttery soft and touchable. Urea, Karanja Oil, and Rosemary Oil provides intense hydration to restore skin’s moisture.
Why I love it: I freely admit I get calluses. I have a flip-flop addiction year round so this is to be expected. The oils in this make my skin super soft and gentle. It also “fills in” between rough areas while dissolving and moisturizing tough spots. My favorite way to remove calluses without risk of damage to my feet like shavers/blades. You apply it, let it dry, then rub until dead skin falls off. Super simple!
Where you can get it: Drugstores, online, and Mega Stores for around $6.00 for 3.4 oz. 

2. Earth Therapeutics Foot Scrub

What it is: Pure Australian Tea Tree Oil is a natural antiseptic that heals and deodorizes. Natural Wild Mint refreshes and stimulates circulation. Natural Chamomile soothes and comforts. Natural Pumice granules exfoliate gently yet effectively. Smooths away calluses and rough, flaky skin. Also works on hands, knees, elbows, and other dry skin areas.

Why I love it: The mint in this is what sets it apart. I love the minty, energetic scent of this! Works like any foot scrub should, but with very fine pumice. Big chunks of exfoliates tend to irritate my skin so this is a big bonus for me. Plus, they added things like fennel, geranium, marigold, and apricot shells making this truly unique.

Where you can get it: Drugstores, online, and Kohls for around $6.00 for 6 oz.

3.AHAVA Dead Sea Mineral Foot Cream
What it is: This relaxing foot cream moisturizes, softens, and smoothes rough soles. Apply this tea tree oil leaf oil enriched cream, to wrap your feet and legs in soothing comfort. Massage a small amount into clean feet and legs, until absorbed.

Why I love it: This smells incredible!  Dead Sea mineral mud formula relieves itchiness, redness and scaling all at once.With shea and coconut, it has less of a medicinal smell which definitely helps. Thick and creamy, the smaller bottle is fine because you don’t need as much for big results.


Where you can get it: AHAVA Stores & online for $26.00 for 3.4 oz.

4. Earth Therapeutics Tea Tree Oil Foot Balm

What it is:A natural herbal conditioning treatment specially formulated with the properties of Australian Tea Tree Oil, the soothing combination of Aloe Vera and Chamomile, and nourishing botanicals to comfort, replenish, and revive dry, damaged feet. Also works on other dry skin areas.

Why I love it: Like AHAVA this is a great great cream. This has a stronger smell, tea tree and chamomile. I like to put on socks over this to let it sink in.


Where you can get it: Drugstores, online, and Kohls for around $6.00 for 6 oz.
5. Freeman Bare Foot Repair! for Cracked Heels
What it is: Intensive foot balm with Urea, Karanja Oil, Neem Oil, and Rosemary penetrates deeply to replenish skin’s moisture and deliver instant relief to severely dry, cracked heels. Apply as needed to maintain healthy, beautiful feet.

Why I love it: Amazing! I love this stuff! Lately I’ve been living in a seriously hot/dry climate (Las Vegas anyone?) and it has done a number on my sensitive heels. Extremely rich, light rosemary scent, and VERY good for my poor little heels when they some TLC.


Where you can get it: Drugstores, online, and Mega Stores for around $6.00 3.4 oz.
6. Dr. Scholl’s for Her Rub Relief Strips
What it is: Cushions sensitive spots and helps prevent rubbing from shoes. Adjust to any length.

Why I love it: I have very sensitive feet, mainly on the tops and heels. I seriously have scarring! These have been my favorites so far in my search for “no more blister/cuts/friction marks” search. You simply use it like you would tape except its a soft foam with adhesive on one side. 
One thing I really like about these is the fact that the strips have a perforated line down the middle. You can simply pull it apart if you want a finer line and then use both pieces, one for each shoe. You can also cut them to fit areas, like my strappy sandals for instance. Some people don’t like that they are “thin” but for me, that’s perfect. If you want something the size of a pillow in your shoe…best of luck to you!


Where you can get it: Drugstores/Mega Stores for around $7.00 for 3.4 inch x 30 inches.

*Item(s) sent to me for review are featured in this post. This in no way guarantees coverage. All of my reviews and reactions are honest, I would never recommend something that didn’t deserve it. For more information, please see my disclosure policy in the top bar.*

Mani of the Day & CND Nail Lacquer Removal!

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Unfortunately the time has come to say goodbye to my CND manicure 🙁

As you can see, my nails have grown significantly, so its time to take it off and apply something new! For everyone who was concerned about my nails being damaged afterwards, I’m glad to say my nails are great! No visible difference from any other manicure! I simply let them soak in 100% acetone and they it all came off after about 10 minutes. I moisturized and was ready to repaint!

This is Ulta Nail Lacquer in Envy. Over this is Sinful Colors in Call You Later. No additional top coat. What do you guys think? Its hard to tell but Call You Later has lime green, medium green, and golden green glitter in it which I love!

DIY: Pumpkin Scrub to Beautify Summer Feet

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So I don’t know about you guys, but the summer does a serious number on my feet. Wedges, flip-flops, and lots of barefoot lounging lead to roughness/dryness for me. How about you guys? 

Here’s a natural way to beat summer feet!
Pumpkin Foot Scrub:
1/4 cup Cooked or Canned Pumpkin Puree
1/4cup of Brown Sugar
1/4 cup of Sea Salt/Coarse Salt
1 tablespoon Oil (Olive, Almond, Tea Tree, etc.)
1 tablespoon Ground Coffee

1 tablespoon Ginger

Put everything in a bowl/container and mix well. From here, simply apply to your feet! Scrub them, especially in rough areas like heels, and let it set a bit. The coffee will brighten your skin and get your circulation going! Rinse off when you’re done and enjoy the results! You can use it on the rest of your body or keep it in the fridge for a few days since its natural.

What are some of your favorite natural recipes for beautification?
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This blog at times uses affiliate links, sponsored material, & receives some products as samples in hopes of review. This in no way alters the articles/posts written & all opinions are my own or that of a guest writer. Please see my disclosure tab above header for more info.