Favorite Lippies

Hey ladies! If there's anything we women like to do, it's change our minds. Whether it's changing outfits a million times, trying on 8 pair of earrings to find just the right pair, or diversifying our makeup looks. We crave change. The easiest way to spice up your makeup is by trying a new lipstick. However, doing so has the potential get very pricey. My recommendation? Wet n Wild Mega Last lipsticks. They are FANTASTIC quality, rich pigmentation, and offer a great range of color options at only $2.99/each! You can't beat that! Check out my video below of my Wet n Wild lipstick collection to get an idea of some of your color options. If you try these and/or have tried these, what did you think? What's your favorite shade?

Rachel

H & M is place to be!!!

Yesterday, I went to H&M to check out their latest deals and I found two awesome items! The first was a tribal clutch with bright orange trim. It's perfect because it's black and white which is totally in this season as well as the bright color orange! This clutch was only $5.95! I love it because you can wear it with a nice or casual outfit! Check it out below!

H & M Clutch for $5.95

The second item I bought was a black fitted dress. In my opinion, you can never have too many black dresses. This dress is sleeveless with lace trim on both sides as well as on the back. It fits amazing and I can wear it with heals or flats! What do you think? Winner? Yay or Nay? Btw, it was only $10!

H & M Black dress for $10

To see what else H & M has to offer, click here http://www.hm.com/us/

Smooth and Hydrated Lips

There's nothing worse than dry, chapped, peeling lips. Follow these easy home remedies to achieve the perfect pout! :)

Damp your lips with water and use a clean, damp toothbrush and gently rub across your lips. This is a great exfoliant and gets rid of flaky skin.

                                                                  OR

You can also use a homemade scrub, using honey and sugar, rub across damp lips, and rinse.

After exfoliating, pat lips dry with a soft towel, and moisturize. One oldie, but goody, is Vaseline. Apply a tad on your lips and they'll feel super soft. Not a fan of Vaseline? My FAVORITE lip hydrating product is Maybelline's Baby Lips. This product is amazing, is great to use especially before lipstick application and is only $3! Have you tried any of these tips? Used any of these products? Let me know!

Rachel

Wet N Wild Liquid Eyeliner Black 861

For me, eyeliner can always be a little tricky, especially liquid! However, I recently found a liquid liner that I really like! It is Wet & Wild's liquid eyeliner and it is only $2.99. Seriously, $2.99 for quality eyeliner is unbelievable! This liner last through out the day! Also, it is not chunky, and it goes on smooth as butter! Can you ask for anything more?! NO! I think not! I bought this liner from Walgreens, however, you can buy it from any local pharmacy or Walmart. Check out this link for more information! Wet N Wild Liquid Eyeliner

It's Vacation Season! What's the best travel wear?

Traveling is loads of fun, but the journey there can often times be exhausting (I know because I'm road tripping now as I type!). Whether it be a road trip in the car, a fight, a train ride or the bus, everyone wants to be comfortable. But somehow, for many, comfort has become synonymous with sluggish. Sweat pants. T-shirts. Flip flops. No ma'am. There is no better time to be MORE COMFORTABLE and CUTE than the summer months. What's my go to travel outfit? A flowy knee length dress or cute maxi dress with flat sandals that easily slip off (great for going thru airport security or making yourself comfy in the car), and a light jacket/sweater or scarf for cool conditions. Voila! Super cute and extremely comfortable. Style does not have to be compromised for the sake of comfort, ladies! Happy travels and be responsible and safe!

Happy Memorial Day and thank you to all who selflessly serve our country to allow us to experience the freedoms we so often take for granted. Thank you!

RACHEL

Rin's OOTD #1

So, today was absolutely beautiful!!! I love Georgia when the weather is amaZing! I went out to the movies and saw a film entitled "The Sapphires"! It was really good! Anyway, the theater had this great wall, so I stopped for an impromptu photo shoot! Today, I was rocking a Lizard Thicket sleeveless white blouse with black lining! By the way, if you've never been to Lizard Thicket, you need to check it out; it is such a cute boutique. In addition to my top, I have on my favorite Express jeans with black sandals from Shoe Department. And my sunglasses are from Target. So, what do you think of my outfit?! Yay or Nay?

BRAND NEW!! Tarte Cosmetics Lights, Camera, Flashes Mascara

You guys know I love a good mascara and I just recently blogged about some of my favorites. Tarte's Lights, Camera LASHES was among one of those favorites. Well, last week on QVC's Friday Night of Beauty, Tarte pre-released their newest mascara, Lights, Camera, FLASHES; a NEW mascara that makes HUGE promises: "lengthens, curls & magnifies lashes for an intensified look - proven to increase lash volume by 752%!"

Yes, they said 752%! Based on my experience, that's quite an overstatement. HOWEVER, it dries and wears like a waterproof mascara (kind of hard and stiff), so it DOES last all day. I'm not sure about the volume difference though. Its a great mascara in the sense that it lengthens, is clump free, and I guess adds some volume. But it is not all it claims. If you just want to try a NEW product, I'd say go for it. If you're looking for it to perform all the promises it CLAIMS....don't bother. 

Overall, it's a good mascara, but the original, Lights, Camera, Lashes performs just as well.

Final Grade: A-/B+

Rachel

FUNKY FINGERS

FUNKY FINGERS, my new fave nail polish!!! I love to wear bright colors on my nails especially in the summertime!!! The three colors (pictured above) are called Kingston, Riot, and Mrs. Mint. I purchased them from 5 below. It's a store where anything you purchase is under $5! I love a good deal! They had a special on nail polish, three for $5! I couldn't let the deal pass me by! Tell me what you think of the colors!!! Too bright or just right?! :) -Rin

Spring Trend Alert: Black and White with Colorful Accents

Black and White is HUGE this season!! Black/white is nice, but I love to wear color, especially in warm weather. Adding colorful accents and accessories are a fantastic way to rock this trend and still get your color fix. Add a neon belt, a colorful clutch, or bold pump to brighten your look!

Rachel

STATEMENT RINGS from Forever 21

 Rings can always add such character to your hands, especially statement rings! I like to call my rings conversation pieces because I LOVE to rock a fly ring and talk about it! The four rings (pictured above & below) were purchased from Forever 21. They were each under $5! You can't beat that! I love inexpensive jewelry that can add to any simple outfit and spice it up a bit! Click the link to see the LATEST Forever 21 Rings !!!! -Rin

BEST and WORST Top Coat

I paint my nails anywhere from 1-3 times a week. (I LOVE changing my nail color). So, I need a dependable top coat so that my nails aren't chipping a few hours after I painted them. Y'all know how irritating that is. So, in my search for the best top coat out there, I FOUND IT!! Pink Armor Nail Gel is an awesome polish that can be used as a base coat for strengthening nails and as a top coat for high, glossy SHINE AND protection to ensure a chip proof manicure. It was originally marketed as an "As Seen On TV"  product but is now available in Target for $9.99. This is absolutely, without a doubt worth the price!! I'm on my second bottle now! If you pick it up or have tried it, let me know what you think!

The worst? Ugh!! Orly "Won't Chip" top coat. This polish is TERRIBLE. My nails actually chipped like crazy when I had this on my nails. My polish chipped more with this ON than it ever would on its own. It's as if this polish was a breeding ground for chipped polish. Do not waste your money on this awful product. False advertising at its best!

What are your best and worst top coats?

RACHEL

Maybelline Dream Liquid Mousse Review

Do you struggle finding the right foundation?
I do! It is always difficult for me to find a true match. However, I recently discovered Maybelline's Dream Liquid Mousse foundation! It's only $9.79 (Target) which is a bargain compared to what I normally pay buying MAC foundation. I must say I really like this foundation! Being an African American woman, it is often a challenge to find the right shade. However, the color I picked matches really well. This product offers 12 shades and I am #370, Cocoa. This foundation is not your typical foundation because it is not liquid and it is not powder, it is an air foam. Once pumped, it releases an air-infused mousse that turns into a light liquid. I really like how light it feels, it is not thick or cakey at all.  Once applied, it has more of a dewy finish. However, those of you who are not fans of the dewy finish like me, buy a powder to set the foundation which gives you more of a matted look.  So, on a scale of 1-10, I give this product a solid 8! So, if you're asking if I would buy it again, the answer is yes! Check out the picture below to see the different shades. -Rin
To learn more, click here Maybelline Dream Liquid Mousse

Pretty Summer Makeup: Orange Lips and Cheeks

Hey ladies! As seasons change, take that as an opportunity to experiment with new looks. New fashion trends, hair styles, or a new makeup look! Trying new looks can be intimidating, but it's also a lot of fun! Versatility, variety and change is one of the perks of being a woman; we are constantly evolving! Check out the new look and let me know how you like it!

Rachel

Nicole's BIG chop!!!

Introducing Nicole, she's my sister! She successfully cut her hair off! After being recently inspired by Youtube's Shameless Maya, she came to the revelation that she is not her hair! Often times, women define themselves by their hair, but in reality we can define our true selves with or without hair! I am so proud of her, better yet inspired by her! She never ceases to amaze to me! She decided to capture it all on video and we have featured it on our Youtube channel! Check out the video below! -RIN

Favorite Mascaras

I am ALWAYS on the hunt for the next best mascara. My lashes on their own are nothing impressive. But, with a great mascara, my eyelashes look full, long, curled and make my eyes look amazing. So which ones do I recommend?

1. Maybelline: Great Lash (pink and green tube) This mascara is an oldie but a goody! This mascara is super affordable (about $7 at all major retailers). It has great color payoff, a nifty brush that really coats each and every lash, and clump fee.

2. Tarte: Lights, Camera, Lashes: I mentioned this product in last my haul post and I am in love with this! It lengthens my lashes, curls them, provides a deep black color, and lasts ALL DAY! ($19 @ Sephora)

3. Maybelline: Lash Stiletto: This mascara comes with a great brush that truly grabs and holds  on to your lashes and adds pretty good length. Can be flaky, but a good product for the most part. (About $7 at all major retailers)

4. Covergirl Lash Blast: Love, love, love this mascara! Comes with a huge brush that adds VOLUME AND LENGTH, and intense color. HOWEVER, unfortunately I have found that my contacts do not respond well to this mascara. They get a strange film on them. Weird, I know. But totally worth trying. Seriously. Love this product! ($8-$9 at all major retailers)

Have you tried any of these? What are your favorite mascaras?

Rachel

Rin's NEW Purchases!!!!

So, I recently purchased 3 statement pieces! An ear cuff, spiky bracelet, and a colorful clutch! They were all relatively inexpensive and MUST HAVES! I think they are all unique in their OWN way!

1. Ear Cuff- I love this ear cuff because it brings out my inner punk! It will add funk to any outfit I wear and I cannot wait to rock it! It was $9 and I purchased it at the Taliah Waajid World Natural Hair and Beauty show. If you would like something similar go to www.fabfrosting.com

 2. Spiky Bracelet- Once again, it brings out my inner punk and fun style! I love the coral color with the gold spikes! It was only $2.50 from a jewelry kiosk in Cumberland mall in Atlanta, GA! I just had to have it when I walked by!

3. Blue & Mustard Clutch: I bought this clutch at a kiosk as well at Cumberland mall. I have been feeling the need to increase my clutch collection and when I saw the color combination on this clutch I was in LOVE! It has a tribal feel to me and reminds me of the MOTHERLAND! ;) Anyway, I can rock this with any outfit and feel FLY! 

Here's me rocking it the other night at the Dark & Lovely, Curl Power Celebration at Havana Club in Atlanta,GA.

So, what do you guys think of my three recent purchases?! Yay or Nay?

-Rin

Sephora and MAC Haul

Hey guys! So, I’ve had a couple of Sephora gift cards that I’ve been dying to use! So, I headed to Sephora yesterday and picked up some goodies!

Product: OCC Lip Tars (http://www.occmakeup.com/)

Price: $18 each

Purchased Shades: Pretty Boy (pictured on right), Strumpet (pictured on left)

I picked up 2 lip tars. These are basically non-sticky, long wearing, INCREDIBLY pigmented lip products. These things are amazing!! I already own two of these and had to pick up more! A DOT of product goes a LONG way! This is a bit pricey, but it will last you FOREVER! Worth the money!

Product: Sephora Compact Standing Travel Set

Price: $3 (clearance)

This is a foldable mirror that unfolds into a standing mirror equipped with a travel size nail clipper and tweezers. This was so cute, I had to pick it up!

Product: Tarte Lights, Cameras, Lashes!

Price: $19 each

This mascara is amazing! It really lengthens your lashes, coats each and every one of them, and curls! I LOVE this mascara. I tried it about 2 years ago and didn’t repurchase until now because it’s so pricey. But since I had a gift card, I had to pick up another one! AWESOME product!

Product: Sephora Eye Liner Pencil

Price: $3 (clearance)

Shade: #24 chlorophyll

This green eye liner is beautiful for spring and summer! Pop on this liner and a few coats of mascara and you’ve got a simple, yet noticeable and pretty eye look! It’s really soft too and glides on effortlessly.

Product: MAC Lustre Drops

Price: $21

Shade: Pink Rebel

This product is a luminizer that can be used mixed in your foundation or directly on the top of your cheeks for an extra glow and soft halo effect. One or two drops is all you need. Apply to the top of your cheeks, cupid’s bow (the dip on your upper lip), the bridge of your nose and the arch of your eyebrows for a beautiful glow! A little goes a LONG WAY!

Rachel

Shea Moisture's NEW Hair Color System

Rin rocking Bright Aubrun by Shea Moisture

In the start of 2013, Shea Moisture released HAIR COLOR! You better say, "Thank you, Jesus!" Girls, I have been waiting on this for I don't know how long! I've always been nervous with hair color. I used to color my hair when it was relaxed, but it always damaged my hair! So, when I went natural, I did not want to put any color in my hair using too many chemicals! Well, this is where SHEA MOISTURE comes in, their NEW hair color system is ammonia and sulfate free! Thank you Jesus again! So, I went to Target, ASAP and they did not have it! :( Don't you worry, I went to five more and found it! Insert praise dance!!! So, if you are interested in using this amazing product, check out our latest giveaway (in the video below). Also, it is now available at Target.com and over 400 Targets in the United States. The colors range from Light Blonde to Bright Auburn to Soft Black! I chose Bright Auburn and it is BEAUTIFUL! The kit is only $14.99 and it includes everything you need! So, watch our video to see everything from application, results and how to enter our GIVEAWAY!!! Just click below! Also, check out their website for additional info. Www.sheamoisture.com
-Rin

Vaseline Spray and Go Moisturizer Review

I recently mentioned the new Vaseline Spray And Go on one of my posts and I was dying to try it. Well, sorry to say, I'm not impressed. :(

Pros:
1. Super lightweight
2. Decent amount of product (not great, but decent)
3. Easily accessible. Easy to find.
4. Three available scents
5. Easy application
6. Attractive packaging

Cons:
1. A little pricey ($7 from Target)
2. TOO lightweight. Didn't feel like you had any product on. I need to be able to FEEL the moisture on my skin. This evaporates into your skin as though nothing were ever there. It takes care of the ash, but doesn't address moisture.
3. It's not EXACTLY spray and go as advertised. You spray, THEN rub into skin.
4. Even after application, I felt the need to add lotion.  My skin was craving more moisture.

I need a product that takes care of the ash AND moisture, marketed at a slightly lower price point, and lives up to what it claims. Ultimately this product does not. I MUCH prefer and LOVE the Vaseline Intensive Care Cocoa Butter Vitalizing Gel Body Oil.

Final Grade: C

Rachel

Summer 2013: Black & White is IN!!!!

Summer Trend 2013

So, it is official, like a referee with a whistle! Black and white, are two of the official colors for Summer 2013! When the NEWS first broke, I was surprised because when you think of summer, one thinks of bright and vibrant colors. However, that is not the case for 2013. This summer, not only is it black and white, but it  black and white STRIPES! Therefore, I had to go make a purchase to start my collection immediately! I went to Ross and bought a pair of shorts (pictured below) and they were only $7.99! Gotta love Ross! :) So, what do you all think of the black and white? Too simple? I think I like it because you can always add a pop of COLOR!

Easy Pick Me Up

There are some days when I just don't feel GREAT. The weather could be bad, problems at work, fight with a boyfriend, etc. However, I've found that the quickest pick me up that works for me is a polish change! A fresh coat of pretty polish goes a long way, helps me relax, and makes me feel better. Now, if you hate doing your nails yourself (as some of my friends do), pay the nail salon &5-$7 for a coat of polish. You'll be glad you did!

Dark & Lovely's Curl Power Celebration in ATL

Last night at Havana Club in Atlanta, Georgia, Dark and Lovely introduced their NEW natural hair line, Au Naturale!!!! The event was hosted by the lovely Keshia Knight Pulliam and one and only Curly Nikki! It was a great event! So many beautiful natural girls, awesome hair demonstrations, giveaways, and not to mention the 
complimentary drinks and food! 

Let's just say it was good time! Wish you were there! :)

Check out some pics below from the event! 

Rin meets Curly Nikki and Ms. Keshia Knight Pulliam

Click here to learn more about Dark and Lovely's new line! http://www.softsheen-carson.com/_us/_en/dark-and-lovely/

Healthy Skin Regiment

Good and healthy skin should be your number one beauty priority! Establishing a routine and ADHERING to that routine (the hardest part) is key.

Night Routine

1. Pre-wash. If you wear makeup, using a makeup remover wipe first is good to wipe off surface makeup, dirt and debris from skin. My favorites? E.L.F. wipes and Neutrogena makeup remover wipes.

2. Then, using lukewarm water, wet your face and use your preferred facewash to cleanse your face. (I alternate using my hands and my Clarisonic device.) Cleanse for about a minute. Rinse.

3. Moisturize. This is SUPER important. Just as you moisturize everywhere else, the face is just as important...if not more! Moisturizing helps keep skin soft, supple, and helps keep wrinkles and fine lines at bay! Believe it or not, my most favorite moisturizer of all time is......VASELINE! Use in moderation, and this thrifty jewel will do wonders!

Morning Routine

Over-washing is detrimental for your skin. So, in the morning, I don't repeat last night's routine...too harsh. Instead, I gently splash my face with lukewarm water, pat dry, apply witch hazel with a cotton ball and moisturize.

Maintain this routine, or something like it and you'll see a major difference in your skin!

Rachel

OPI Rapi Dry Top Coat

Have you tried, OPI's Rapi Dry Top Coat?! It is pretty much AMAZING & it is only $6.99!!! To some that may sound expensive, but think about it you don't want your nails to chip in a day! It is well worth the investment! Try it & your nails will be shining for days! Let me know what you think! :) -Rin


"OPI Rapi Dry Top Coat is a quick drying top coat which protects your nails from chipping.

This fast drying, non-yellowing top coat gives nails a high gloss shine and helps prevent nails from smudging or streaking. Definitely a manicure essential, Rapi Dry Top Coat delivers high performance results for a long lasting, chip resistant manicure with a high shine finish." -OPI

Click here to learn more: http://www.beautybay.com/nailcare/opi/rapidrytopcoat/