REVIEW: SMASHBOX ALWAYS ON MATTE LIQUID LIPSTICKS
Just when you thought the liquid lipstick trend was over, Smashbox comes out with the new Always On Matte Liquid Lipstick. For starters, the colours are beautiful and highly pigmented with 20 new shades which range from lavender, to cool grey and brown. For the more traditional girl, there's corals, reds, pinks, berries and nudes. Oh and there's that deep red called Bawse they did in collaboration with YouTube megastar, Lilly Singh.
I'll be honest, when these first landed on my desk I didn't have high hopes. I get a lot of lipstick samples and I'm very fickle about what I like but after trying them out, I can say these are fab!
These liquid lipsticks apply like a cream formula but it dries completely matte soon after. Once dry, it DOES NOT COME OFF. (I recommend removing it with an oil based makeup remover or a potent micellar water like Garnier's waterproof micellar.) Long lasting lipsticks are always great in my books but how they feel on the lips is just as important. Since the Smashbox formula is matte, it does feel a bit dry, but it's far more comfortable to wear than other mattes I've tried. (Hello Kat Von D! Love your lippies but they're dry AF!)
I've been using these non-stop since I got them. The colours are great, the formula is awesome and the price point is decent for a high end lippie at $28 each. You can pick up the Smashbox Always On Matte lippies at Sephora and Shopper's Drug Mart nationwide.
HOW TO MAKE YOUR LIQUID LIPSTICK LAST EVEN LONGER
The following is a makeup trick I use to make my lipstick last even longer. I do this if I'm at a photo shoot or at an event. First I apply the Always On liquid lipstick to my lip as normal. Then I apply a regular cream formula lipstick over top in the matching colour. Doing this adds a bit of moisture to the matte liquid lipstick and makes it feel more comfortable on the lips. Somehow this mix calls for longer wear, as opposed to drying out too much and having the lipstick wear out on the inside-centre of the lip (...like when you eat or drink or talk to much. I haven't met a liquid lip that doesn't do this). Try it and tell me what you think!
TIP: Make sure you use a cream lipstick and not lip balm since it will do the opposite and wear out lipstick faster.
In collaboration with Smashbox Canada. All opinions and photos are my own.
NEW SKINCARE ALERT: FOR BELOVED ONE
The top-selling skincare brand from Taiwan called For Beloved One*, has just landed on our doorsteps, and Canada for that matter. The line features deeply hydrating sheet masks with hyaluronic acid ($64 for a 3 pack), Hyaluronic Acid Tri-Molecules Moisurtizing Surge Cream ($95) and Brightening DD creams in rose, lavender and peach tints ($55 each).
Popular amongst celebrities in Taiwan and Hong Kong, For Beloved One has a cult following with their Melasleep products and bio-cellulose sheet masks which are made from the finest fibers for more absorption.
For Beloved One can be purchased at T&T supermarkets nationwide or online at yesstyle.ca.
*FBO samples provided to WoahStyle.com. All photos are our own.
FANCY THINGS YOU NEED NOW: NESPRESSO VERTUOLINE
In this version of Fancy Things You Need Now, I'm going to be looking at the Nespresso - the pricey coffee machine that pumps out lattes, macchiatos, espressos and regular ol' coffee in less time than it takes to order most fancy lattes. Since getting my machine I've come to realize the Nespresso is more convenient and less expensive (with cost per use) than buying a cup of coffee everyday.
Let me tell you that we love coffee in my house. We have two french presses, a percolator, a Kitchen Aid coffee maker and a Cuisinart Cappuccino maker that we got as a wedding gift. We grind our own coffee beans and when it comes to espresso, we only use Illy. We're one of those couples.
Now that you know my level of commitment to coffee, let me tell you why you need a Nespresso.
QUALITY
Everyone wants to drink a good cup of coffee but not everyone knows how to make it. Think about how many lukewarm, bad tasting cups you've ever had at a cafeteria, restaurant or relatives house. Nespresso measures the exact amount of water needed for each coffee capsule, ensuring your coffee is consistently delish. Each capsule is sealed until it's time to brew.
TASTE
With 16 flavours available, from light to dark roasts, my faves are; Melozio (medium blend), Hazelino (hazelnut flavoured blend) and Odacio (medium blend with a hint of fruit).
EASE OF USE
Seriously it doesn't get any easier. Just place the capsule in the machine, press the button and voila!
COST
Fast forward to three weeks since getting our Nespresso and the daily run to Starbucks has stopped. Now I feel guilty buying coffee when I'm out because I can make better coffee at home.
The Nespresso VertuoLine (featured in this post) retails for $249 and is available as a bundle with the Aeroccino (milk frother) for $299. The Aeroccino retails for $100 on it's own. Coffee capsules average on $1.10, which is cheaper than most coffee shops. Espresso capsules retail for $0.85. It's hard to deny that having a Nespresso is cheaper in the long run.
My favourite thing; curl up with a magazine and a hot cup of coffee. #AllDone
In collaboration with Nespresso Canada.
All opinions and photos are my own.
BOLD MAKEUP FOR FALL: PURPLE EYE SHADOW
Happy Monday friends! With the constant heatwave in Toronto I know it's hard to think about fall but that's exactly what I'll be discussing today. If you follow me on Instagram you'll know that I've been in Whistler with Shoppers Drug Mart having the time of my life - dining on incredible meals, taking in the scenic views of Blackcomb Mountain and most importantly, looking fall makeup makeup trends and discussing our "beauty nevers". #BeautyDare (!!!)
I love playing around with makeup and there's hardly any trend I shy away from. Even still, purple eye shadow and false lashes have always been on the top of my list "never" list. Purple shadow because I feel it makes my olive skin look muddy and lack lustre and falsies because I don't have the patience for them. The few times I've attempted both, I've regretted it soon after and couldn't wait to get home to wash my face.
Photo by: Roxanne West of bonjourbliss.com
For my Shoppers #BeautyDare challenge, I sat down with makeup artist Simone Otis (known for her work with Shoppers Drug Mart, Elle, Bazaar, Rita Ora, Lorde, Bite Beauty, Fashion, Flare and Elisha Cuthbert to name a few), to create a purple eye and talk about beauty techniques when applying false lashes. This is what I learned.
1. Makeup artist Simone Otis put my "beauty never" to rest and showed me that olive skin can be a good canvas for purple shadow.
She created graphic eye on me and explained the secret is to layer in a few shades to really make the purple pop. For my look she used Clarins Cream-to-Powder eyeshadow in Silver Plum as a base and then layered in three purple shades from Urban Decay - Gravity, Asphyxia and Psychedelic Sister. The look was finished with a subtle cat eye, curled lashes and lots of mascara. I'm not gonna lie, it was a bit strange seeing my eyes wrapped in so much purple but that was the whole point of this challenge, to step outside of our comfort zone and try something new.
When I replicated the look on myself I added a touch of pink on the inner corner of my eye and transitioned to purple on the outer corners. A lot of purple still feels foreign to me so this was my way of getting comfortable with the colour. Now that I understand how purple works with my olive skin tone, I'm excited to try a bold purple cat eye that transitions to black on the outer corners. It's more within my comfort zone while still being bold.
2. Applying false lashes doesn't have to be daunting.
As much as I like the look of false lashes I never do it because it takes so much time and there's so much room for error (or so I thought). Simone showed me a technique no one really talks about that blew my mind!
Use individual lashes instead of a strip to create a more natural look that will hold up longer. She applied about 11 individual lashes on the upper part of my eye. She started at the outer corners and concentrated most of the individuals there. Then she moved towards the centre of my lash line and left the inner corner au naturel. The finished look was natural but still very bold. I doubt anyone would have been able to tell I was wearing falsies if I hadn't told them.
The benefits of individual lashes outweigh strip lashes in my opinion. You can add as many or as little extensions as you want anywhere you need it. They're also less likely to fall off which is amazing! (We've all been there, when your lash strip lifts from the inner part of your eye and no one tells you. Not cute!)
Finally, make sure to use a good lash glue. Simone introduced me to Duo lash adhesive. If you wear falsies than you would have already heard of it but this was a whole new world for me. It dries clear and it's hypoallergenic. Perf!
I gotta hand it to Simone Otis, she converted me on my "beauty never". I might not wear purple eyeshadow or false lashes daily but at least now I know how therefore I feel more confident pulling off these looks.
Now it's your turn. I dare you step outside of your comfort zone and think about your "beauty never". Start by talking to a makeup artist. Shoppers has an amazing team ready to teach you the tricks and tips you need to achieve a new fall look. Make sure to ask a lot of questions when you sit down with them so that you feel comfortable replicating the looks at home.
This post is in collaboration with Shoppers Drug Mart.
All opinions and photos are my own.
#NEWIN ANNABELLE VOLUME MASCARAS, METALLIC LIPSTICKS & MORE
Drug store beauty fave, Annabelle, has recently launched new mascaras, gel lip liners (a must-have for your beauty bag), metallic lip crayons and their staple LIPSIES balms in new "diamond" finish for a hint of shimmer.
Seven new mascaras have just launched from mega volume building to lengthening.
For those who love long lashes - you'll want to try:
Lash Launcher for lengthening.
Blastoff for curls.
Supernova for an all-in-one.
If you prefer big, bold lashes like me, then you'll want to try:
Big Show for mega volume.
Big Show Waterproof for mega volume in a waterproof formula (not pictured).
Expandable for volume & length building.
Outlash for dramatic, wide eyed volume with a 360Β° twishted brush.
Mascaras retail for $9.95 with exception of the Expandable Mascara which is $10.95.
In case you don't know it yet, Annabelle makes some of the best lip liners on the market, drug store or high end. These Gel Lip Liners are no exception! They come in 6 colours and retail for $8.95. (Nude Attitude not pictured.)
Annabelle also keep's up with the metallic lip trend with their new Twistup Metallic Retractable Lipstick Crayons. They come in 6 colours and retail for $9.95, which is much more affordable that the Kylie Cosmetics Metals.
Finally, the popular LIPSIES lineup has 6 new "diamond" shades. These moisturizing balms have shimmer added to a sheer wash of colour and retail for $4.95.
Annabelle cosmetics can be found at Shoppers Drug Mart across Canada and Well.ca amongst other retailers.
All prices are in CAD dollars.
Samples provided by Annabelle Cosmetics.
All opinions are my own and all photos belong to WoahStyle.com
#NEWIN MAKE UP FOR EVER WATER BLEND FOUNDATION
New series alert: #newin!
In the past I've only featured my favourite products in the Beauty section which in hindsight is a bit biased.
The purpose of starting this new series is to give you, dear reader, an overview of new product launches that are hitting the market. I'll try to post in real time as items head my way, but right now I'm trying to catch up on the many exciting things that are waiting to be photographed, swatched and played with.
So, without further ado, I want to talk about the latest foundation launch from Make Up For Ever called Water Blend.
Water Blend Face & Body Foundation in Warm Ivory (R330), Medium Beige (R370) and Golden Honey (Y405). I have medium olive skin and I've been using Y405 on my face and chest when I wear low cut tops.
This face and body makeup comes in 20 shades from Pink Alabaster to Dark Brown and retails for $54 CND. The easy to blend formula contains 80% water and is enriched with pro-vitamin B5, resulting in a sheer, dewy, natural finish that is ideal for every day wear.
If you like natural looking makeup, this one is for you and you should definitely check it out. Anyone who prefers a full coverage makeup might want to pass on this one.
TIPS FOR LONG LASTING MAKEUP
- Always use a makeup primer before you apply foundation.
- Apply foundation to your neck for a seamless, flawless look. If you're wearing a low cut top, bring your foundation down to your chest.
- Once you've applied your foundation, use a translucent powder to set it with a large fluffy brush (like this one).
- Finally, once you've done your full face, use a light mist of setting spray to lock your makeup in place.
- Application: I apply my Water Blend with my fingers although a Beauty Blender or a brush work best if you want your makeup to last all day.
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Thank you to Make Up For Ever Canada for sending over samples of Water Blend.
All opinions are my own and all photos belong to WoahStyle.com
EVERYDAY ATHLEISURE
If you follow my blog and Instagram closely you might have picked up on my weight gain confessionals. It's harder to admit to myself than it is to you guys that I've recently gone up a pant size. I have ripples where I don't want, I feel like I jiggle when I walk and above all else, concealing muffin top has become a daily struggle.
Most people in the fashion & beauty industry might freak and run for the hills but why? Sure I'm not as skinny as Chiara Ferragni and I don't have a cute bubble butt like Dani Song, but I'm okay with that because beauty comes in all shapes. Interestingly I'm the happiest I've ever been and I'm not going to let a few pounds stand in my way.
Out of comfort (and perhaps weight gain necessity), I'll often throw on some athleisure wear on my days off. My favourite pieces are a loose fitting top and some comfortable stretch bottoms, like the cute LolΓ« shorts I'm wearing here. I'll blog from home and run errands in my comfy gear because it's more than just for practicing yoga and sometimes I don't want to deal with skinny jeans (are you shocked?).
It's not to say you have to gain weight to wear some comfy pieces, but it just happens that's when my appreciation for it came to play. Now I mix and match pieces according to how I feel and of course, I'll often accessorize with a cute bag and some jewelry.
I'm currently working on getting fit and eating better but I'll know I'll still be wearing my LolΓ« pieces for a long time to come.
For any yoga enthusiasts out there, make sure you check out the LolΓ« White Tour happening this Thursday. I'll be giving away two tickets to the tour so be sure to comment here, on IG or Twitter to enter. Good luck!
Photography by Tristan O'Brien
In sponsorship with LolΓ«. All opinions are my own.
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5 OF MY FAVOURITE LUXE ITEMS
I can't believe how busy it's been recently and that I haven't done a favourites post since May! The reason I like doing these kind of posts is because my favourites change all of the time. Between the PR samples that are sent to me and my regular visits to Sephora (which average on 3-4 times a month. Okay. Maybe 5-6...), I'm always trying out new products and experimenting with different techniques. Here are 5 luxe items that I'm currently loving and I think you might love too.
BECCA x JACLYN HILL CHAMPAGNE POP FACE PALETTE
When YouTuber/makeup artist Jaclyn Hill released her limited edition Champage Pop highlighter in collab with Becca Cosmetics last year, I was one of those people who fell for the hype. Half a year later it's still my favourite highlight, so naturally I was excited when she extended her collaboration and released the Face Palette, with 3 blush shades and 2 highlights, including the original Champagne Pop.
Not only is the packaging the gorgeous, but the colours are beautiful and look natural on my kmedium olive skin. The powder formulas are buildable and the longevity is amazing! I always use a face primer to help my makeup stay on longer, but it's been a hot, sweaty AF summer and if this blush is still on at the end of a long day, then it's good!
TIP: HOW TO KEEP YOUR MAKEUP FROM FADING
Use a face primer after you moisturize and before applying your makeup. I've been loving Dermalogica's Face HydraBlur face primer. I have about 10 face primers in my collection and this one works miracles in keeping my makeup on all day. I put it to the test during a 2 hour photo shoot in the sun and aside from some shine, my makeup was still on. I'm working on an extensive primer story for you guys as we speak so stay tuned!
Sadly the JHxB Face Palette is sold out on Sephora online, but you might be able to still find it in store. I frequent Mapleview Mall in Burlington, more than I like to admit, and I saw a few there last week. If you missed out on the palette, fret not. JHxB have just released blush/highlight duo's that are just as beautiful!
CHARLOTTE TILBURY HOT LIPS LIPSTICK
This post is all my luxe favourites and can we just take a moment to appreciate how beautiful and luxe these new CT lipsticks are?
Packaging aside, I have been loving Hot Lips so much I carry them everywhere I go. The formula is velvety matte and wears comfortably on the lips. For longevity, you will need a need to set these with a nude lip liner, otherwise they'll fade. I've been using Pillow Talk, also from CT, because it doesn't alter the colour from the tube.
The shades I've been loving are: Miranda May, a coral pink, created for the beautiful Miranda Kerr AND Secret Selma, a deep rose-plum, created for actress Salma Hayek.
You guys know I'm lipstick obsessed and i just love these! I have my eyes on a few more shades so I might do a full review and wear-test at some point!
HERBIVORE BRIGHTEN PINEAPPLE ENZYME + GEMSTONE ISNTANT GLOW MASK
At almost $60 a jar, I've been apprehensive about buying this mask but I'm so glad I did. I slathered before going to bed one night and let it work its magic for 20 mins before rinsing it away. The results, smoother, brighter, clearer skin that made me giddy with joy!
HOW IT WORKS
Brazilian Tourmaline: a micronized gemstone powder that naturally brightens complexion.
Pineapple Enzyme: A natural alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) to gently exfoliate and rid of dead cells.
Rice Powder: Brightening and skin smoothing, used in Japan for centuries.
MAISON FRANCIS KURKDJIAN PARIS
I've often heard about layering scents but I've never tried it until I got these MFK fragrances. Both of the ones I have are refreshing, refined and smell luxurious. I tried a few of the MFK scents when I was at Saks one day but these two are my faves and like I said, they layer beautifully together but they're excellent on their own.
Aqua Universalis
It's sparkling floral accord is heightened by a touch of sandalwood and a sumptuous jasmine absolute. It releases a generous freshness, with bergamot from Calabria, Sicilian lemon, lily of the valley, syringa in a swirl of light and musky woods
Γ la rose
A rosy duo in one fragrance: two hundred and fifty Centifolia roses from Grasse (May Rose) in the form of an absolute produce a very floral base note with sweet honeyed and carnal accents. One hundred and fifty Damascena roses from Bulgaria in the form of an essential oil create a top note with a playful blend of pear and lychee.
Γ la rose has the crisp tenderness of rose petals, a whimsical free-spirited style and an elegance that radiates femininity.
HERMES TWILLY SCARF
Last summer I was all about tying bandanas around my neck, wrist and hair. I'm doing it again this year but I wanted something for refined and less bulky than a cotton bandana. Enter, the Hermès twilly. Michael, @globalgarcon, and I bought our together and we haven't stopped wearing them since. My favourite way to wear it - around my wrist for a touch of colour.
*Charlotte Tilbury Hot Lips and Maison Francis Kurkdjian fragrances were provided as gifts. All other items were purchased by me. All opinions and photos are my own.
THE NO-BOHO FESTIVAL STYLE
It's only Monday but I'm already thinking about the weekend. Geoff and I will be going up to the cottage for a week away starting this Friday night. Can you tell I'm counting down the days? Then on Saturday we'll be heading over to Barrie for WayHome!
I went last year and even though the day was long and exhausting, I have good memories of seeing Modest Mouse play live. The first time I saw them was after the album Good News For People Who Love Bad News had just come out which was back in 2004. (I feel old just writing that!) I also got to meet Kendrick Lamar last year just before he hit the stage. It's pretty awesome because half a year later, I'd be seeing him perform live at the Grammys in LA. He's so amazing live, probably one of the best artists I've ever seen perform.
Ok, enough reminiscing because today I'm talking about this years WayHome. I'm excited to have teamed up with Rudsak to bring you guys some bad ass festival wear. I stopped by the store recently and picked up a few things for the weekend including these cute sports inspired shorts, crossbody wallet on a string and this leather trimmed fedora. The outfit is festival ready but also good for hanging out in the city, or by the water, basically wherever you chill out this summer.
Make sure you guys keep logged into my IG and Snapchat (@woahstyle) this Saturday because I'll be posting live from WayHome with my blogger bestie Michael (@globalgarcon). We'll also be taking over Rudsak's snapchat account so we can't wait!!
Until then, I have lots of new content to share so be sure to check back on the blog daily for new outfit inspo and new beauty posts, including an in-depth interview with founder Alicia Yoon of Peach & Lily. Her interview and skincare tips seriously gave me life and I can't wait to share it with you all. Happy Monday and have a good week everyone!
xo, Nathalie
For my Festival Survival Guide, including what to pack and what I like to munch on (hello Thirsty Buddha!), make sure to check out my post here.
This post is sponsored by Rudsak. All opinions and photos are my own.