Merry Clinique: End of November Releases

Right before launching their A Season's Worth of Beauty Palette (just a few more days!), Clinique has rewarded us for our patience with an abundance of new products for the holidays. From sets for big, beautiful eyes to jumbo-sized classic moisturizers, you're sure to find one to add on to your list this year! 

Dramatically Bigger Lotion ($36.00 for 6.7 fl. oz.)
Our best-selling moisturizer. Ready to give its fans more of what they love. Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion with convenient pump softens, smooths, improves.


Dramatically Bigger Gel ($36.00 for 6.7 fl. oz.)
Our best-selling moisturizer for oilier skins. Ready to give its fans more of what they love. Oil-free Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel with convenient pump softens, smooths, improves.

The Weekly Wonder: Clear or Tinted Lip Conditioners?

Clear or Tinted Lip Conditioners?

I'm Tickled Pink (Grapefruit) with The Body Shop's Pink Grapefruit Lip Butter

The icy bite of winter not only affects your skin, but also takes a toll on your precious pucker. While us ladies frantically slather on hydrating lotions and creams to our flaking skin, we often neglect our lips that beg for the slightest bit of moisture. On my quest for the perfect lip balm (yet to be completed), I came across The Body Shop's Pink Grapefruit Lip Butter ($6.00) on yet another adventure with my best amiga, Ann (not-justapretty-face.blogspot.com) The creamy texture (after some mistreatment) and zesty citrus aroma brought back fond memories of basking in the warm sunshine just this summer.

Free Clinique Minis!

Hello ladies! Wow. It feels wonderful to write for you again! I've just been so occupied with homework and uh...minor injuries. I plan on treating you with an abundance of posts. Be ready for my "25 Days of Maquillage" posts in December. I might end up changing the maquillage part, but I'm positive it'll be "25 Days of insert incredibly clever name here." And here's the Clinique deal you've been longing for:

Get two free minis with any $25.00 online purchase! 

Milly for Clinique Bonus!

I've never seen a BONUS so jumbo! Milly for Clinique Bonus is available now through December 4th at Saks Fifth Avenue with any $35.00 Clinique purchase. Use the code CLINIQUET if purchasing at SFV's site. Check it out here.This chic bonus features...

Splat!

CLICK ON ME TO MAKE ME BIGGER!

Thanksgiving Nails + Hilarious Turkeys

The days until Thanksgiving are dwindling down. I don't know about you, but I'm very ready to scarf down tender turkey, warm gravy, and fluffy mashed potatoes. One cannot forget the pie. There's no Thanksgiving without pie. But, there really is no Thanksgiving without..well, THANKS. I'm ever so grateful for family, friends, and you guys! Without you, this blog would pretty boring, right? And to show my thankfulness, I created a simple nail design. I painted Sally Hansen's Advanced Hard as Nails Polish in Oasis Dawn Creme all over my nails and topped it with some Sinful Colors light pink with green duochrome (Where's the name?).

How To: Winterproof Your Skin

"I ought to say no no no sir - Mind if I move in closer
At least I'm going to say that I tried- What's the sense of hurtin' my pride
I really can't stay- Baby don't hold out
Baby it's cold outside"

He loved her, but the real reason he feared letting her go outside is because he wanted to protect her perfectly hydrated skin. Winter's harsh weather and low temperatures can easily take a toll on skin, leaving it parched and flaky. "Winterproofing" it is vital throughout December, January, and February. So, Jack Frost may be nipping at your nose, but you won't find  scaly, thirsty skin here! Here are ways to guarantee smooth, supple skin from head to toe all throughout winter.


Feet and Hands: Shea "Yes, Please!" to Shea!
Right before bed, indulge in a majorly moisturizing ritual. Slather on a layer of  a thick, moisturizing cream to your feet and hands. I'm in love with BBW Warm Vanilla Sugar  Shea Cashmere Hand Cream ($6.00) for hands and BBW Warm Vanilla Sugar Triple Moisture Body Cream ($12.50) for feet. Immediately slip on a pair of shea-infused gloves and socks and visit your dreams! Each day you'll wake up to baby-soft paws and feet.

BBW Free Duo!

Ah! I feel so bad for not posting enough. I promise, though, school is getting easier, so there will be more posts. As for now, I would love to inform you that Bath and Body Works is hosting a holiday event this Saturday, November 19th in which you will receive a free 2oz bottle of Jingle Bellini and Shea-Infused Socks with any Signature Collection Purchase!

XOXO,
Gabby

Clinique Holiday Survival Kit!

Yes, I haven't been on for a while, but I'll make it up to you! I have tons of posts that are almost finished! As for now, I would like to talk about Clinique's survival kit. It's yours free with a $30 Clinique purchase. Hurry! It's only online for TWO DAYS. You'll receive....
All About Eyes Serum De-puffing Massage
Long Last Lipstick in All Heart
High Impact Mascara in Black

Enter the code KIT at checkout to receive your gift.

XOXO,
Gabby

Celebrate the Holidays With a Plethora of Peppermint!

What better way to celebrate the holiday season than with a plethora of peppermint beauty products? Whether it's your nail files or blotting linens that resemble the refreshing holiday classic, never be seen without your minty red and white must-have! Need help finding that must-have? Look no further!


Peppermint Stripe Nail File ($1.00)
Prepare your hands for an exquisite manicure (possibly peppermint nails?) or put a smile on a friend's face with this inexpensive double-sided nail file. One side features a candy cane design with a medium grit while the other is solid red with a course grit.

Maybelline Dream Mousse Blush in Pink Frosting is the Icing on the Cake!

I honestly cannot tell you if it was the words "Dream Mousse", the shade "Pink Frosting", or the 40% off Maybelline sign that convinced me to provide this luxurious blush with a makeup case to live in. Cheers to well-named products and sales! As expected, the blush was a delightful air-whippped cream/mousse texture that seamlessly glided across your face for a sheer, innocent flush. Pink Frosting came to be an amped up baby pink with a medium amount of sparkles.

The Claim:  Air-whipped mousse blush feels satin-soft on skin, glides on smoothly, and blends easily for seamless color and a natural finish. Long-wearing formula provides luminous, long-lasting color on cheeks without clogging pores

Merry Clinique (Getting Sick of This Title Yet?)

To begin, "WOAH!" It's 11/11/11. At 11:11 this morning in math class, I made a wish. :D The best part? It came true...

And no, my wish was not that Clinique launches even more holiday products, but clearly that wish belonged to some one, for Clinique released yet again MORE holiday products.

Let's take a look, shall we? For the record "*" means it's an ONLINE EXCLUSIVE.

Aromatics Impact Set ($14.00)
A sensuous pairing of Clinique's non-conformist fragrance and lush, plush lashes. Aromatics Elixir Perfume Spray performs the role of perfume, but goes far beyond. High Impact Mascara kicks up the volume of each and every lash. A perfect gift in a mini gold bag. And yes, the price is $14.00!

Blissful Balms for Boys and Girls! (But Mostly Girls)

Winter's icy air and endless cups of steaming cocoa may result in unhappy, parched lips. Think of the lucky person under the mistletoe with you: Would they want to smooch dry, flaky lips? So treat your lips (and friends') to some festive, hydrating cheer with bashful balms for all! These cute lip balm sets just have "Stocking Stuffer" written all over them!

11/11/11 Celebrations!

Ah, I know! I haven't been on for a whole whopping 2 days (That's a lot for me!). I've been busy capturing photographs with my camera (Want to see them?!) Anywho, words cannot describe my excitement for tomorrow!Guess what tomorrow is?

It's going to be a pretty magical day other than the fact that we have school! I'm not one for all that "voo doo" stuff, but I'm totally making a wish at 11:11 on 11/11/11 tomorrow. We won't get to do that until next year at 12:12 on 12/12/12. That's our last year. 13 isn't a month!
Since the week is almost over, I promise you a plethora of posts :D
XOXO,
Gabby

Benefit's Friends & Family Sale!

Hello darlings! Just a brief reminder about Benefit's Friends & Family sale!


XOXO,
Gabby

Gift Sets: 20 for 30!

I don't know about you, but usually, I don't like to spend $50 of my own money on presents for people I'm not close with. It takes a while for me to earn money! Luckily, October and November introduce value sets stocked with products for a cheap price. For you, dear reader, I've hand-picked 20 of my favorites (all $30 and under) for whoever you're looking for! NOTE: Excuse the corny names..:D
The Scent Sweetie:

Philosophy Fun in the Frosty Air Trio ($25.00)


Pacifica Magic Carpet Ride ($28.00)


Tuscan Wanderlust ($28.00)


Tokidoki Scent Stick Trio - Adios, Ciao Ciao, Siberia ($28.00)

Harajuku Wicked Style Mini Rollerball Coffret ($15.00)
 

The Makeup Maven:

My Heart...and Complexion is Warmed with Clinique's Different Lipstick in Tender-Heart

On my quest for the perfect fall lip color, I came across this subtle hue of Clinique's Different Lipstick. Sheer yet buildable, Tender-Heart's perfect plum/brown shade warmed my heart as well as my complexion. Something about this lipstick morphed my pale face into a warm, glowing complexion. Sadly, the only nice quality of this lipstick is the shade. Tender-Heart lacks creaminess and long-lasting powder: two very important things when it comes to a great lipstick.

The Claim: Different because of its smooth, comfortable feel. Moderate coverage in a remarkable range of shades, from cream to pearl. Every one packed with rich emollients.

The Verdict: You could say it's comfortable, but NOT smooth. The colors are very sheer, but buildable. Rich emollients aren't detected at all. It just sits on your lips without moisturizing.

All swatches are Tender-Heart. See how buildable it is?

PRICE: $14.50

 PROS

• Makes lips shiny after application
• Buildable color for a customized look
• Perfect shade for fall: plum-ish berry brown
• Good price
• Sits on lips comfortably
• Warms complexion somehow

CONS

• Not creamy AT ALL
• Not long-lasting
• Can appear too brown on some lips
• Not moisturizing

Where to buy:

• http://www.clinique.com/
• Clinique Counters
• Department Stores

RATING: ** or C

Overall, this product is NOT Mangos+Cream Approved. The formula has to be as amazing as the color!

A Newbie's Guide to CCO Hauling!

     


















Umm...Gabby, what's a CCO, anyways?
The answer is quite simple. CCO stands for Cosmetic Company Outlet. These stores are in Outlets (hence outlet store...). Inside these wonderful stores you'll find discounted beauty items from brands such as MAC, Clinique, Estee Lauder, and Bobbi Brown. Permanent individual items as well as limited edition products and sets from the year before are sold here for at least 20% off.
Find your nearest CCO here.

FAKE MAC- A MAC product purchased at CCO for a discounted price.

A Newbie's Guide to CCO Hauling:

1. Never come with a HUGE  mental or written list of wants!
There's a huge chance that you won't find what you're looking for unless you're positive it was a seasonal set from yesteryear. You might find the products you're looking for, but often times the selection of products is limited. Come to CCOs with an open mind and...a full wallet:)

6 Lip Looks You Need to Try Before 2012 -- $22 or Less

Are you ready to shake up your makeup routine for a day (or two!)? Test these bold lip looks that simply can't be ignored! What've you got to lose?!

1. Sprinkle-Coated Lips
Looks almost good enough to eat!
Violent Lips Candy Dots Lip Tattoos by Sugar Factory ($15.95 for Three)

Clinique High Impact Mascara: Black Vs. Brightening Black

        A new take on a classic mascara meant to brighten eyes? Yep! I'm talking about Clinique's Limited Edition High Impact Mascara in Brightening Black ($14.50). I received a deluxe sample of this along with six other products in a Clinique Bonus back in August with Ann (not-justapretty-face.blogspot.com) I've been incorporating the mascara's signature hue into my beauty routine ever since. If I got a quarter for every time somebody told me that my lashes "looked blue" or that my eyes "appeared brighter", I would be rich. The best part? I'd still be rich after purchasing this mascara -- It costs so little!

Tracy Reese for Clinique at Nordstrom!

              If you've been waiting for the perfect Bonus, it's now your time to get out of hiding for Tracy Reese for Clinique! Complete with stunning bags and gorgeous makeup shades, this Bonus is sure to make a great addition to your $25.00 Clinique purchase. In this Bonus you will find... 

Lancome Beauty Sensation Sets 2011-2012!

If I had to choose my favorite Holiday thing in the beauty world, I would immediatly answer, "Lancome's Beauty Sensation Sets". After one Lancome purchase, you can receive a $300 value set for a mere $57.50. Available in cool or warm, This pulchritudinous 14-piece collection is available for a limited time at department stores such as Nordstrom and on Lancome's Website.

Clinique Sugarfrosted Eyes!

Finally, Clinique has released their Holiday Colour Collection for 2011! Sugarfrosted Holiday Eyes, Clinique's 2011 Holiday look, features bright, defined eyes and subtle lips and face. "Sugarfrosted" includes permanent products as well as three new limited edition shades.

Stila Holiday Sets! (UPDATED)

Take incredible value with amazing items and you get Stila Holiday Sets! Saving nearly $25.00 each set, it's well worth it! Have a look:

Sweet & Sparkly Kit ($60.00)

Perry Pumpkin!

    Making a stop at a close friend's house while trick-or-treating with Ann (not-justapretty-face.blogspot.com) brought me immense joy.

Sephora Collection Baked Moonshadow Takes Me Over the Moon!

Me being the baked shadow fanatic I am, almost dropped my Fun Size Snickers when I came across a new baked shadow palette by Sephora. Sephora Collection's Baked Moonshadow in In The Dark ($28.00) just happens to be In The Nude's sultry sibling, containing smooth shades perfect for a smokey eye. Each palette, complete with lacy silver compact, features ten 0.017oz pigmented shades that can be worn dry or wet as an intense liner.

Merry Clinique -- Part 187??

As if 100 Holiday Sets wasn't enough, Clinique released EVEN MORE sets for December 25th. From perfume stocking stuffers to mascara duos, Clinique literally has it all! Take a look at Clinique Holiday 2011's newest additions!


Complete Happiness Coffret ($39.50)

The Weekly Wonder: Are You a Gloss Gal or a Lipstick One?

     Merry Tuesday Night!

This week's weekly wonder: Are you a "gloss gal" or lipstick one?

Being only 13, wearing lipstick isn't exactly an everyday option. I find myself happy experimenting with bold lip colors and subtle ones. Our school play gives me an excuse to arrive at school donning a vivid tomato lip, but regularly I can't. You'll more often find me with a sheer lip gloss. However, I love both with a great love and I plan to rock lip color almost daily when I'm older.

How about you guys? Are you a gloss gal or a lipstick one?

XOXO,
Gabby

Lancome Holiday!

It may only be October 28th, but parents and children alike are counting down the days to Christmas. Lucky for us beauty fanatics, the holidays comes early in the world of beauty and fashion. Sets are released in late September and October, and sell out by the time December 25th actually arrives. I guess you could call Lancome  a "late-bloomer", for it just recently launched its glamorous collection of holiday products. Take a look:

Juicy Tubes Dazzling Splendor Gift Set ($29.50)


Deluxe Brush Set & Makeup Case ($59.00)


Perfect Pout Lip Set: Natural Sweeties ($39.50)

Perfect Pout Lip Set: Blushing Pinks (($39.50)

Color Design 5 Shadow and Liner Palette with Swarovoski Stone Jewels ($48.00)

Bottom to Top: Kissed by Bronze, Lilac Seduction, Smoldering Gold, Rose Bijou

That sums it up for Lancome's newest Holiday items! I'm a bit disappointed to Lancome's packaging this year, especially compared to MAC Glitter & Ice (Snow Globe Compacts?!). The shades, however are more to my liking. They may not include the most "holiday-ish" palette of hues, but they are buildable classics that aren't just reserved for winter. As for my favorite set, I can't stop dreaming about the Juicy Tubes set. I've had many pleasant experiences with this gloss, and I cannot wait to get it for a steal!
What's your favorite?