Category: Favourites

Beauty, Drugstore, Favourites, Review

Revisiting Old Makeup Favourites

by Lea1 Comment on Revisiting Old Makeup Favourites

Hey guys! So the other day I decided to revisit some of my old favourite makeup products. I feel like makeup, like any industry, is always focused on the new. A new palette comes out and every forgets about their old ones. Makeup has definitely improved in quality over the years, but are the old favourites bad or still pretty good? I decided to go through some of my old favourites and let you guys know my thoughts, whether they’re still good or not.

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First is the Too Faced Sweet Peach Eyeshadow Palette. Everyone went crazy when this palette came out a couple of years ago. I actually waited out and bought this palette used in makeup-selling group for $25. Everyone was in love with the peachy shades and smell. So how do I feel now? Honestly, the peach smell is not strong it’s a little much if you ask me. But I still love the matte formula. The mattes are just so incredibly smooth. They have the perfect amount of pigmentation and blend beautiful on the eyes. The shimmers are definitely not like what I remember. Shimmer shades in palettes nowadays are super pigmented/metallic/foiled/glittery looking. The shimmers are still nice, don’t get me wrong. The perfect for a softer look. This palette is still great, and I definitely will still use it, but I don’t think you have to run out and get it for yourself.

I think a really underrated product is the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil. I have the shade Deep End and I think it’s absolutely gorgeous. They glide on so well and are easy to smudge. But they also stay put so well, even on the waterline. They are just as good as the Marc Jacobs ones – they are $4 cheaper which isn’t much but still cheaper! Like this eyeliner has been out for almost ten years, that must mean that it’s good if people still use it.

The OG favourite primer for me was the Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer. I have been using a dewier primer but I recently used this Smashbox primer again. There is a reason this is a cult classic. It does such an amazing job at smoothing out my pores. My foundation also lasts way longer when I use this primer over a dewy one. I don’t think I’ll be converting back over full time, but when I need my makeup to last I will definitely use this primer.

A foundation throwback is the Wet n Wild Photo Focus Foundation. I loved this foundation so much that I bought both a summer and winter shade. First I forgot how full coverage and matte this foundation is. I feel like the makeup community has been into much more lighter coverage and dewy skin lately, so it was a fun change to wear something else. I do still like this foundation because it makes my skin look so good. I think next time I am going to use a dewy primer and a beauty sponge to lighten up the coverage a bit.

A concealer favourite was the Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Flawless Wear Concealer. This was my concealer of choice during the Tarte Shape Tape craze. I couldn’t get Shape Tape in Canada, so this was my go to high coverage concealer. I forgot how high coverage this concealer is. I have been using my Nars concealer lately, which is definitely more of a medium coverage. I think I need to get a different shade in this concealer because it was looking pretty yellow on my skin.

A powder favourite was the Maybelline Fit Me! Matte & Poreless Powder. This was actually the first powder that I ever bought. I have tried so many since that I forgot how amazing this powder is. It makes my face look and feel sooo smooth. It also doesn’t leave me looking cakey afterwards. As you can see I’ve almost finished this powder, but I am definitely going out and repurchasing this.

Another Maybelline favourite was their Facestudio Master Blush Colour and Highlight Kit. I love this face palette when I first got it. The highlight is a nice pinky shade that isn’t too icy. My favourite of the blushes was the first peachy one. It is still gorgeous now. It has a very buildable formula, so I’m not afraid that I will apply too much. It also has a light sheen to it – don’t glittery but more than a matte. I don’t really use the other two shades that much so I’m not sure I would say it’s the best palette. I still like it and I think I will start using it again.

The final old favourite is the OFRA Cosmetics Rodeo Drive Highlighter. I still have the old packaging for this highlight, that’s how long I’ve had it! This used to be everyone favourite highlight. It’s just so blinding on the skin. I have definitely noticed that blinding highlights are not as popular anymore, but like man this is still a good highlight. It’s just so smooth, it doesn’t look chunky on the skin or make my skin look textured. I definitely use a lighter hand but I still really like this highlight.

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I was able to create this really fun look using some of my old favourites. Let me know if you guys would like to see a part two of this, I can definitely dig up some other old faves!

xoxo

Lea

Favourites, Review, Television

Recent Netflix Faves

by LeaLeave a Comment on Recent Netflix Faves

Hey guys! Today I am sharing some of my recent favourite shows that I have watched on Netflix, plus one bonus that is not available on Netflix but that I highly recommend you all to watch immediately. As some of you may or may not not, I studied Communications in university, which is basically media studies. One of my favourite courses was actually a course on television. I like watching tv way more than movies, but I am enjoy reviewing and recommending different tv shows to my friends. Now I’m not going to lie, I have a pretty niche-ish taste in tv shows (my faves on historical dramas and teen dramas) but I have decided to share my recent faves that you can watch on Netflix. Let me know if you guys are interested in seeing an all-time fave tv post!

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1. Brooklyn 99

I mean you must be living under a rock if you haven’t heard of Brooklyn 99 yet. I’m not much of a comedy person, but I actually find this show hilarious. Back in first year, some friends on my floor and I watched the first season together. That winter break I binged the rest of the show with my brother who also feel in love. I just recently finished the sixth season. Like I can’t just say ‘cool’ anymore, I say:

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For those of who you don’t know, Brooklyn 99 follows a group of dectectives who work in NYPD’s 99 prescient. A lot of the humour is based on crime television, a genre full of tropes. The main character is played by Andy Samberg, so if you like Lonely Island you would like this show. The characters are all love-able but complex. Comedies can sometimes rely on stereotypes for characterization, but all the characters are quirky and hilarious. Finally, Brooklyn 99 also tackles some serious issues using humour. It discusses sexism, racism and also portrays some LBTGQ characters quite well. If you wanna laugh, check out this show.

2. Medici

If you want a historical drama that is more heavy on drama than history, then check out Medici. The first season, Medici: Masters of Florence, follows Cosimo de Medici and he figures out who murdered his father, Giovanni. The second season, Medici: The Magnificent, follows Cosimo’s grandson Lorenzo de Medici. First, I like the show because both seasons are only eight episodes long. It doesn’t draw on forever, it’s a quick and addictive watch. I binged both of the season within a week each. I also like the show because it is full of drama, romance and mystery. There is a lot of shit that goes down in the show. But finally will it might not be the most historically accurate, I still learnt a lot of the Medici and the Renaissance. For those who don’t know, the Medici where the big ruling family of Florence, Italy, and they sponsored many of the thinkers and artists of the period. It was super cool going to Florence this past spring and seeing some of the building and artwork mentioned in the show.

3. The Last Czars

If you loved Anastasia as a kid, then you definitely need to check out this mini series. Part reconstruction and part documentary commentary, the show explores the life and downfall of the Nicholas Romanvo, the last Czar of Russia. Now the mix might not be for everyone, but I personally enjoyed it. As someone who didn’t know much about the Russian Revolution except for the basics, I found this highly educational. But the presentation style was also highly enjoyable. The costumes and cinematography was beautiful. I did find the acting a little cheesy, but I do enjoy cheesy. I felt like The Last Czars was a good introduction into the topic, and now I want to learn more. At six episodes, it’s a quick and enjoyable watch.

4. You 

If you weren’t one of the millions of people who watched the show when it came to Netflix this past winter, then I recommend you go back and watch it. This show is so gripping and creepy yet dumb and ridiculous at the same time. The show follows Joe Goldberg, a bookstore manager who becomes obsessed with a girl named Guinevere Beck. The show is creepy because Joe’s obessesion with Beck is crazy, and the steps he goes towards stalking her and controlling their relationship is insane. What is most conflicting is how the viewer is repulsed yet also silently cheering on Joe through the show. The viewer watches Joe help his kid neighbour who has an abusive dad, but then he goes and beats up Beck’s boyfriend. And the ending is such a surprise, not one I saw coming. I am curious what the second season will be like.

5. Outlander

I decided to start reading the books after falling in love with this tv show. This historical time traveler series follows Claire Randall, a World War II nurse who falls back in time to 1730s Scotland. Claire meets James Fraser, a Scottish Highlander, and she becomes involved with the Jacobite risings. Sam Heughan, who playes James Fraser, is extremely attractive so this show is very easy on this eyes. The show has a little bit of everything, with romance, action, political intrigue and a dose of history. If you like Game of Thrones, I feel like you would be a fan of Outlander as well. I personally found the third season to be a little slow, but really liked the fourth season. Also fun fact: my last name is also Randall, so it’s funny to watch the show and see characters sharing your family name.

BONUS: The Handmaid’s Tale

So this is a bonus because it’s not on Netflix, but if there is one show you should watch off this list, its The Handmaid’s Tale. Based on Maragret Atwood’s novel of the same novel, the show is a dystopian future where a highly conservative and religious government has taken over the USA, forcing fertile women into slavery. With all the stuff that is happening in the US, this show is a scary look into what our society could be like. The first season can be a little confusing if you haven’t read the novel, but the next two go past the plot of the novel. This series if very dark and serious, so it’s not for leisurely watching. It is beautiful filmed – fun fact it is actually filmed in Southern Ontario. I’ve driven by one of the main houses multiple times, and one scene was filmed at my university.

But anyways, if you are looking for a show for academic reasons, this one if also perfect. It is full of imagery and symbolism, and full of bible references. Many people are also drawing parallels to Trump’s America as well. I wish I had watched this show while in my television class, because this would have been great to write about. This is definitely a more intellectually inclined show, but I would still highly recommend because I think the narratives and themes are highly important. Please watch so I have someone to discuss the show with.

And those are my recent Netflix recommendations! Let me know in the comments some of your current favourite shows!

xoxo

Lea

Beauty, Favourites, Makeup

My Fave Youtubes

by Lea1 Comment on My Fave Youtubes

Hey guys! So I watch a ton of Youtube. Like in university I would watch Youtube whenever I ate a meal and whenever I wanted a study aka all the time. Now I watch a variety of Youtubers, but today I am sharing some of my favourites. The ones I will be sharing today are all beauty and fashion/lifestyle. If you are curious what some of my other fave Youtubers are, let me know and I can always do a part two!

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Probably My Favourite Youtuber – Allegra Shaw

I have a lot of favourites, but I think Allegra Shaw might be my favourite. Allegra is known for her fashion content, pretty sure she got famous for her changing videos. But the reason why I like Allegra is because of her personality. She posts weekly vlogs that are just so simple and show her personality so well. Some vloggers do vacation vlogs with drones and fancy shots, while Allegra’s are just simple clips of her and her friends hanging out. She is also a Canadian Youtubers based in Toronto, so it’s so cool seeing her around the city. Like I just want to be friends with her.

My Other Favourite Youtuber – Allana Davison

Another Canadian queen. I actually found Allana Davison through Allegra. Allana is also very down-to-earth and super funny. Like during her videos she makes durpy faces and funny noises. Plus I love her cat. Allana posts a variety of videos, ranging from beauty, fashion and vlogs. Allana is also get about talking about Canada things and products, so she feels super relate-able to me. Finally, Allana does simple but cool makeup, so it is easy to recreate her looks. She doesn’t wear crazy falsies so she is very approachable for the average makeup-wearer.

I Always Laugh but also Learn Something while Watching her Videos – Samantha Ravndahl

Guys, I just have a thing for Canadian Youtubers okay? But actually Samantha Ravndahl is amazing. Her humour is so similar to mine, she always manages to make her laugh out loud. Sam is a trained makeup artist, so she does beautiful tutorials and is really good at reviewing products. I find her videos to be very informational. I’ve shared so many of her videos with my friends because she is amazing at explaining. I also recommend reading her description boxes because they’re really funny too.

The First Beauty Youtuber that I Watched – RachhLoves

I found RachhLoves about four years ago, when I really started to get into makeup. I found her because I was looking for some drugstore makeup, and as a Canadian she suggested products I could actually purchase. I find that she is very through in her reviews, and I have bought some many good products from her recommendations.

Queen of Product Reviews – Tati

I known that some shady stuff went down with her and James Charles back in May, but at the end of the day I trust her opinions so much on makeup. Tati is such a great product reviewer. I have bought some many products that she has recommended. She is extremely through, giving wear tests and will often give dupes/similar products for expensive items. A great Youtuber to check out if you are interested in makeup reviews.

Crazy Makeup Fun Girl – Keilidh MUA

I find Keilidh MUA so inspirational. I get so many ideas for makeup looks from her. But she is also so fun to watch. I also lover her Irish accent. I think a big thing is that Keilidh is only a year older than me, so I relate to so many things that are going on in her life as well. Keilidh is great if you are looking just for some fun makeup related videos.

Alexa, Play Glam&Gore

Listen, I am awful at SFX makeup. But I still watch all of Mykie’s (Glam&Gore) makeup tutorials because she is hilarious. Mykie is currently on break, but I am literally counting down the days until she comes back. She is a fabulous storyteller, but also super creative. I laugh the whole time as she does her makeup, and then I am amazed at the end at the final product. Not for the faint of heart, because some of her looks are crazy good. Come back soon Mykie!

Does Tutorials That You Can Actually Recreate – Kathleen Lights

Kathleen Lights does the most beautiful makeup looks and tutorials, but they are actually are pretty simple and easy to re-create. Kathleen also reviews tons of drugstore/affordable makeup, so I can actually afford her recommendations. Plus she is actually the reason I decided to get Boxycharm, because I love watching her reviews of the boxes.

Another Canadian Queen – Alex Centomo

What can I say, I love Canadian Youtubers. Alex is from Montreal, which is where my mom’s side of the family is from. Even though she’s English, she still reminds me of my French Canadian family. I also love her style, I find that is very similar to mine. I also like how Alex is very vocal about mental health, talking honestly and openly about it. She discusses a wide range of topics, so it’s not always the same thing on her channel. I really enjoy the variety.

My Idol, Who I Strive to Be Life – SunbeamsJess

I want to be like Jess. I discovered her when she was finishing up her last year of university. It was motivating to watch her balance Youtube, a blog and post-secondary education. She also discusses a wide variety of things on her channel. She does fashion content, beauty content, book reviews and vlogs. It was watching her that I kind of realized that I don’t have to pigeon hole myself into one niche. I can talk about makeup but also do book reviews at the same time. She also have the most soft, soothing British accent, it’s very calming to watch her videos.

And those are TEN of my favourite Youtubers! Let me know down in the comments below who your favourite Youtubers are!

xoxo

Lea

Beauty, Favourites, Review

Current Beauty Favourites

by Lea2 Comments on Current Beauty Favourites

Hey guys! So I’ve realized that it’s been awhile since I’ve shared my favourite beauty products. I purchased some new makeup during the Sephora VIB sale, but I also went back to some old favourites during my trip in Europe. So this post includes a nice mix of old and new products!

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First is the Dr. Brandt Pores No More Luminizer Primer. I kinda hate that I like this product because it’s so expensive but I just love it. I got it in a Boxycharm and I just fell in love. It’s adds the perfect amount of glow to my skin. I’ve tried other luminizing primers and found that they were way too much. This primer just adds a subtle glow under my foundation. I have been using this primer almost exclusively the past couple of months. I just love it.

Next up for foundation has been the Physicians Formula The Healthy Foundation. I remember my friend complimented me on my skin while wearing this foundation. I just love this foundation, it’s actually the only one I brought with me to Europe. It feels lightweight, has a light-to-medium build-able coverage and has a beautiful satin finish. It also wears nicely through the day. Since my skin has been clearer lately, I have been enjoying a lighter coverage foundation. The shade I have also matches me really well – if you have neutral undertones this line is really good. I know Physicians Formula isn’t the cheapest brand at the drugstore, but this foundation is so worth it.

To round out my face product, my favourite concealer has been the Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer. I love this concealer because it has good coverage but doesn’t look or feel heavy. For example, while Tarte’s Shape Tape has amazing coverage but can look heavy under the eyes if you apply too much. With the Nars concealer, I find that it look more natural compared to the Shape Tape. This is also the only concealer I brought with me to Europe and I loved it.

A new product to me is the Fenty Beauty Sun Stalk’r Bronzer in the shade Shady Biz. I have the mini because they were sold out of the bigger ones at the time, but man now I wish I had the bigger one! This is my new favourite bronzer. It’s fairly similar to the Physicians Formula Butter Bronzer, but with a way better shade range. This is the perfect shade to bronze with – it’s warm but not orange. I like that it’s pigmented but not too much because I really like to build up my bronzer. I think that this shade is also perfect for me because when I’m paler I just use a lighter hand but can go heavier once I get tan. I am so happy I found this right before summer!!

Another new favourite is the Laneige Lip Glowy Balm. This might be controversial, but I like this more than the Lip Sleeping Mask! I find it a pain to dig my finger into the jar! This packaging is easier to use and more hygienic. I also just love how this makes my lips look and feel. My lips look so glossy but they are sticky, and it does an amazing job hydrating my lips. I know $20 is expensive for a lip balm, but man this one is sooooo good.

Next is a product that I don’t mention very often but wear the majority of the time of my eyes. I have three Colourpop single shadows that I use all the time as all over shades or just with a little highlight on the lids. Wake Up Call and Made to Last I often just wear all over my crease and lid with just a bit of mascara. Bel Air is slightly darker and cooler than Wake Up Call, and I will usually just a highlight shade on my lid when I wear this shade. This Colourpop single shadows are only $4.50 each, and they are so effortless and easy to use. I have been using them I would say 80% of the time that I wear makeup. I’ve had them for over two years and still haven’t hit pan either. I highly recommend buying some Colourpop single shadows!

My favourite mascara rotates, but currently I am loving the Tarte Tarteist Lash Paint Mascara. I like mascaras that give me lots of length with just a hint of volume. I also like how I can apply a little for an every day look or load it up for a night out look. I brought two mascaras with me to Europe, but I found myself reaching for this one more. I really like this one!

My final favourite is somewhat surprising, but it has been the NYX Dewy Finish Setting Spray. My skin was quite dry this winter (did not like the extreme cold oof) and I was reaching for more hydrating products. I found that this setting spray made such a huge difference in the look and feel of my makeup. If I ever was looking dry or powdery, this setting spray would just revive my makeup. And it’s only $10 CAD!! I am almost out of my current bottle, and I am definitely going to repurchase it.

And those are my current favourite makeup products! Let me know in the comments what your current favourite products are, I am always looking to try new products 🙂

xoxo

Lea

Beauty, Favourites, Review, Skincare

My Mask Collection

by LeaLeave a Comment on My Mask Collection

Hey guys! I am personally always on the hunt for a great face mask. I love getting new masks, but I find good ones can really make a big difference on how my skin looks and feels. So I decided to share with you guys the masks that I currently own. I decluttered my collection a couple months ago so it’s not that large but I really like all the masks that I kept. Just want to mention that I have acne-prone skin, so all of the masks I use are meant for that. If I want something hydrating I generally use sheet masks instead.

masks 2019

The first mask is a great drugstore option – the Garnier SkinActive Pore Purifying 2-in-1 Clay Cleanser/Mask. Now I only use this as a mask, but you can technically use it as a cleanser. I really like how the formula of this one is thinner so it dries faster. I can quickly use this mask for five minutes and see results. The thinner consistency also makes this mask really create for overnight spot treatment. I will say it’s not the deepest cleaning mask that I own, but overall I like it because it’s quick to use and it has a good price.

Next are my two mini Origins masks. I might have mentioned that around the holidays I picked up a set of Origins masks, and these are the two that I kept. First is the Origins Original Skin Retexturizing Mask with Rose Clay. I actually used this mask last night and wow! I like using this mask for cleaning out my pores more than dealing with any breakouts. I really notice a difference in my pores, and I don’t find this mask too drying which is nice. The other Origins mask is the Out of Trouble 10 Minute Mask to Rescue Problem Skin. Now this mask is for all my fellow acne prone friends. I use this mask when my face is freaking out and I notice such a difference in how my breakouts look before and after using this mask. It just does a great job of decongesting the skin and getting all the gunk out. Now I use this all over my face, but my friend with combo skin uses this too but just on her t-zone and she loves it as well. I will say that this mask is drying, so I always apply a nice moisturizer after using it. I think when I finish both of these minis I will purchase the full sized of these masks.

Now if you are looking for something a little more hydrating, I would recommend the Peter Thomas Roth Irish Moor Mud Purifying Black Mask. I like to use this mask when I want to help clear my skin but I don’t want to dry it out. This mask doesn’t dry down, so it helps keep my face hydrated. My face always feels smooth and soft after using it. The only thing I don’t like about this face mask is that you can’t just wash it off, but you have to wipe if off with a cloth. I find this to be a bit of a hassle because it takes longer to wash off and it has stained my face towels before. I still really like this mask, and I would recommend this normal and combo skin people would like this too.

The final mask is Lush’s Mask of Magnaminty. Every time I use this mask I am always impressed at how well it cleans my skin. It makes my skin look brighter and feel smoother. It is does dry my skin, so I don’t wear it more than 10 minutes to not overdo it and then just apply a nice moisturizer after. It can be a little messy but I don’t mind that. What I do mind is that I’ve had this mask for awhile, and it’s not expired yet, but it is drying out. So keep in mind that if you don’t plan on using this mask weekly to maybe get the smaller size.

And those are all my favourite masks! Let me know down below what your favourite masks are because I always like trying new ones out!

xoxo

Lea

Beauty, Favourites

My Vanity Tour

by Lea2 Comments on My Vanity Tour

Hey guys! It’s a new year, which is a perfect time to go through and reorganize your vanity/makeup storage. I thought I would share with you guys how I store my makeup. I keep all my makeup on top of my desk and in the first drawer. I actually want to change how I store my makeup, but I don’t have any room currently. Once I move in April I will hopefully have a chance to change it up, so maybe stay tuned for an update!

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On top of my desk I have my mirror, a palette holder, my brushes and a storage organizer box. I usually use my closet mirror that is right beside my desk to apply my makeup most mornings, but if I am doing full glam or more complicated looks I will sit down and use my mirror. I got my mirror last year for my birthday, it is similar to this one from Bed, Bath and Beyond, but mine is white. The palette holder I got from Amazon, I keep more of my palette is my other makeup organizer. Ideally I would like to get rid of this and put my palette is one of my desk drawers, but since it’s currently full of school supplies this will have to do. I will say it’s nice to have my palette in view and easy to grab.

My brush holder is actually a plant pot from Ikea that my friend bought me for my birthday. There were daffodils in the pot, but once they died I decided to use it for my brushes. Most of my brushes are the exact size of the pot, so I decided to add these blue stones from the dollar store to help rise them up. My brushes are now easy to grab and I can see all of them.

Next I got this white vanity organizer a few years ago from Bed, Bath and Beyond. This one is similar, but mine is bigger. I wanted to get something white because all the furniture in my room is white. I do like the look of the white better than clear acrylic, and since I keep mainly powder products in this organizer it doesn’t get too dirty. On the top left section I keep all my setting sprays. Next in the two back cubby-holes I keep all my brow products. The organizer came with a nine lipstick organizer, and then I bought this acrylic organizer from Amazon to have more. I have my most used lip products here. I really like having my favourite lip products out for me to see because I find it easy to decide what I want and to also retouch throughout the day. On the side I have a little container with my mini brushes and my eyelash curler. I also keep my makeup sponges and some of my false lashes here.

Within the drawers are mainly eyeshadows. In the first drawer I have my necessities: my eyeshadow primer, some lip balms and my tweezers along with my magnetic palette with some neutral shades. In my middle drawer I have my ‘fun’ drawer, as I like to call it. I have all my sparkly eyeshadows and glitters. This drawer also holds my single shadows. The next drawer over I have my smaller eyeshadows palettes. The bottom larger drawer I have my medium sized palettes – all my Urban Decay and Too Faced palettes.

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I have the rest of my makeup in the top drawer of my desk. The acrylic organizers I’ve had since high school, but I actually don’t like them that much. I find them bulky, but they work for now. On the left front I have all my powder face products – my bronzers, highlights and blushes. In the back left I have my dark lippies, along with gel eyeliners and more blushes. In the middle front I have my foundations and in the back middle I have a combination of primers, liquid highlights, lash glue and lash tweezers. In the left front I have my mascaras and concealers, in the left middle I have my eyeliners and lip liners and then in the back left I have some more lip products. I also keep some of my other palettes in this drawer as well.

And that is how I store my makeup! If you guys want me to go more in depth in certain parts of my makeup collection let me know down below! I can give reviews and swatches of one category – like blushes or eyeshadows.

xoxo

Lea

Beauty, Favourites, Makeup, Review

Best Beauty Products of 2018

by Lea2 Comments on Best Beauty Products of 2018

Hey guys! Decided to do an extra post this week to share my favourite products of 2018. Last year I only had five favourites, and this year I am up to fourteen! These products are not necessarily new this year, mainly products that I got this year and I’ve been loving. A lot of people said that this year was the year of palettes, and I definitely tried a ton. For me, there wasn’t one palette that really stood out and was my favourite of the year – which is so funny because last year I had two palettes apart of my favourites. Without further ado, here are my favourites!

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First up, my favourite foundation is all thanks to Kathleen Lights. I heard her rave about the Physicians Formula The Healthy Foundation, so I decided to try it out. This foundation is a light-weight, medium coverage and have a nice satin finish. I was getting tried of my full-coverage-matte foundations, and this was a refreshing change. The shade range is not amazing, but I do like that they have a mix of warm, cool and neutral toned shades. I’m not a few fan of the massive doe foot applicator, but this foundation is nice enough that I look past it. This foundation wears nicely through the day and I just really enjoy how this looks on my skin. AND it’s a drugstore foundation, so the price isn’t crazy!

My only palette for this year is actually a face palette. I got the Tarte Tarteist PRO Glow Highlight and Contour Palette during the Spring VIB sale and I have been loving it. I wanted to try a cream contour and this one has been very easy to use. I have no problems blending it out, and it’s the perfect shade – not too warm, not too cool. I might the bronzer very pigmented, so I don’t use it very often but it’s nice to have in the palette. The highlights in here are beautiful. There are creamy and pigmented, and there is a nice range of shades. If you are looking to try out cream contouring, this is great for beginners and it comes with a bunch of beautiful highlights!

While my favourite foundation is drugstore, my two favourite concealers are high-end. I have two favourites because one is my winter shade and the other is my summer shade haha. The first is the NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer. This concealer is a cult classic for a reason. It has a medium coverage, but it can be built up to provide more coverage. I love this concealer because it makes my under eyes look bright and radiant and blends well with my foundation. Some concealers I find don’t blend well with my foundation, so my makeup doesn’t look as flawless. This concealer makes my under eyes look amazing, even during exams! My second favourite is one I have been using for years – I have been using the Estee Lauder Double Wear Concealer before I even started my blog. I recently really got back into using it this year, especially in the summer. This concealer is super long-lasting, my foundation would wear away and yet this concealer would still be in place. This concealer is also great for spot concealing, it does a great job of cancelling out redness. I know both of these concealers are expensive, but they are both excellent concealers.

As an oily girl, I love powder. My favourite I discovered through my best friend. I have just been loving the Cover FX Perfect Setting Powder. This powder is very translucent, it doesn’t change the shade of my foundation. I also love the way it makes my skin look. It gives my skin a beautiful soft finish, and doesn’t make my skin look crazy matte. This powder is just so smooth, I love it. This powder is also great for touch up through the day. Once I finish my mini one I think I might get a full size one. If you are looking for a loose powder, this one is great!

If you read my Best Boxycharm products of 2018 post, then you would know which two mascaras are my favourite this year. The first is the IT Cosmetics Superhero Mascara. The mascara is perfect for when I want big, long, full lashes. The second mascara is the Butter London Double Decker Mascara. This mascara is perfect for when I want nice fluffy, natural lashes. Both are great mascaras that I have been loving.

Now I accidentally photographed the wrong highlight. My favourite, which I know isn’t new, is definitely the Maybelline Master Chrome Highlighter. I have the shade Rose Gold and I love it. I have tons of gold highlights, but this rose one is different that the other highlights that I own. This highlight is just as creamy and pigmented as my Becca ones. The other highlight I have been loving is a mini I got in a set from Sephora by Laura Mercier. This highlight is a beautiful light champagne shade, and I just love how it looks on my skin. I would recommend both of these highlights.

Photo 2018-12-15, 12 32 18 PM

I have four favourite lip products – a balm, a liquid lip, bullet lipstick and a lip gloss. First is the Bite Beauty Agave Lip Balm. This is a thicc lip balm. I use this lip balm when I am in need of some intense lip hydration. What I also like is that the balm is made from food-grade ingredients, and Bite Beauty is a Canadian brand (I love supporting my fellow Canadians). Another product from my Boxycharm was the Girlactik Long Lasting Matte Lip Paint. This liquid lipstick is one of the most comfortable ones I’ve tried. It’s long lasting, matte and budge-proof yet doesn’t leave my lips feeling all dry and gross. I would love to get more shades! Now I totally forget to review the collection on my channel, but I did get some items from Kathleen Lights’ Zodiac collection with Colorupop. The Creme Lux Lipstick in What’s Your Sign was my favourite item. The formula of these lipsticks are just so creamy, and this shade is the perfect slightly-warm nude. My final lip product is the Sephora Collection Outrageous Effect Volume Lip Gloss. This is definitely the best plumping lip gloss I’ve ever tried. It makes your lips tingle a little but nothing crazy that hurts. The shade XXL Nude its a beautiful warm neutral (can you tell what I shade is my favourite).

My final favourite product is actually a pair of lashes! This year I have gotten into wearing false lashes, and PUR PRO Eyelashes have been my favourite. The band is thick but comfortable, and pretty easy to blend in. I just find these lashes so easy to put on, and they look amazing. I have worn them multiple times and they still look good. I definitely want to get another pair!

And these were my favourite products of 2018! Let me know what your favourite products are, I always love trying out new products! I hope you guys had an amazing 2018 🙂

xoxo

Lea

Beauty, Boxycharm, Favourites, Review

Best Boxycharm Products of 2018

by Lea2 Comments on Best Boxycharm Products of 2018

Hello friends! I am survived exams and I am currently in Mexico! I am writing this post while looking at the ocean, ahhh how relaxing. Today’s post I am very excited to share. This is my second full year of reviewing Boxycharm, so I have received around 60 products this year. Some of the products were amazing, and some were not so great. I have twelve products that I absolutely loved, and at the end I will say which box I think was the overall best in 2018. Now in no particular order, my favourites:

Photo 2018-12-15, 12 06 54 PM

1 – Ace Beaute Grandiose Eyeshadow Palette

This year, Boxycharm put a palette in almost every box. I have tested many palette, and this is one of my favourite one. It was in November’s box (which was overall pretty great). The quality of the eyeshadows are amazing, and it has a nice mix of wearable everyday shades along with some fun pops of colour with the pink and coral. This is definitely a palette I see myself using in 2019.

2 – IT Cosmetics Brow Power Universal Eyebrow Pencil

Throwing it back to January with this product. I remember when I first used this pencil I wasn’t too sure, and then I proceeded to use this pencil all summer. It was just the perfect match for me. I like this product during the summer because it added some colour and shape to my brows, but it didn’t look like too much. It perfectly matched the makeup-no-makeup look I rocked most of the summer. I will definitely repurchase this pencil when I run out.

3 – Dr. Brandt Pores No More Luminizer Primer

This is probably a shocker to most of you. I got this product back in January and it wasn’t until December that I fell in love. My skin went through a dry period this much, so I was looking for products that helped bring some life back to my skin. This primer was the only one I owned that wasn’t completely matte, and it did wonders for helping my skin. For all my normal/dry girls out there, or anyone really who is looking for a dewier primer, this one is great.

4 – Sol de Janerio Brazilian Bum Bum Cream

It takes awhile for me to go through products, but I finished this before the month of June was even over. The scent of this cream is just amazing. I bought another one, which is the one in the photo above. If you haven’t tried this cream yet, you are missing out on something amazing.

5 – Butter London Double Decker Mascara

This was the year of great mascara in Boxycharm. The first of two favourites in the Butter London one. I should definitely get a new one because I’ve had this one since March (oops). But it’s so goooood. This mascara gives me fluffy lashes – that is the best way to describe it. It adds a little volume and length without looking too crazy. This mascara is great for every day wear, and removes really easily. I don’t know where they sell Butter London in Canada, but I will find a way to buy this mascara again because I need it in my life.

6 – IT Cosmetics Superhero Mascara

The IT Cosmetics mascara is the opposite of the Butter London one. This mascara is the one I wear when I want my lashes to be huge but I don’t feel like wearing falsies. This Mascara really lengthens my lashes and add just a hint of volume. This mascara can be a little stubborn to remove, but the effect is well worth it. This was by far the best product in November’s box.

7 – Alamar Cosmetics Ojitos Brush Trio

I received tons of brushes from Boxycharm this year. Besides the Luxie eye brushes I received in my box last year, these brushes that I received in my September box are my favourite. I just personally enjoy the brush shapes that come in this trio. It has a blending brush, a flat brush and a liner brush – everything you need to do an eye look. The quality of these brushes are great and I reached for them again and again.

8 – Laura Geller Baked Blush-n-Brighten

Another product from September, that I am actually surprised I love so much. I received quite a few blushes from Boxycharm, and I don’t like many of them. I didn’t think that I would like this blush since it has a slight sheen to it, but it’s actually what I love so much about this blush. Most of the blushes I own are matte, but this one just adds just a healthy glow to my skin. I love it. Very surprised, good choice Boxycharm!

9 – Battington Monroe Lashes

These lashes were from June’s box. This year I have really started to wear false lashes more, so it was great to received some in my Boxycharm. These Battington lashes have been great. They are easy to apply, look great on the eyes and can be re-worn multiple times. I have been thoroughly loving these lashes.

10 – Alamar Cosmetics Reina Del Caribe Vol 1 Palette 

Another great products from June’s box was this palette. The quality of the eyeshadows were just amazing. The blue shade, Varadero, is probably the best metallic blue I have ever used. Whenever I wore this palette everyone asked me what I was wearing. Just looking at this palette right now makes me want to go and play with it again. I also saw that they just released new products, so @Boxycharm, if you guys want to give us more of their products I would be very happy!

11 – Girlactik Long Lasting Matte Liquid Lipstick in the shade Posh

This year was not the year of lippies for me when it came to Boxycharm. I recieved soooo many weird shades, it’s not even funny. But this Girlactik liquid lipstick was by far the best. It is such a comfortable liquid lipstick, my lips don’t feel all dry and gross after wearing it. The shade Posh is just such a gorgeous warm nude. This was another hit product from January, and I honestly want to get more shades because this lipstick is great.

Honourable Mention to Naked Cosmetics Holographic Highlighter Collection

I used this highlighter palette, specifically the blue shade, during my school’s Orientation Week in September. Our theme was a music festival, so I went all out with the crazy makeup. This highlighter was amazing. It colour showed up so nicely and bright on my skin, and it lasted all day through the heat and humidity. I got some many people complimenting me on my highlight, everyone thought it must be Fenty Beauty or ABH because it was so good. If you are looking for a crazy, colourful highlight palette, this is the one.

Those were all my favourite products that I received in my Boxycharm this year. The best box of the year for me is a tie between June and November. For both June and November, the only bad product was the Jonteblu eyeliner – I’m not sure why Boxycharm keeps on giving us these eyeliners because I don’t like them. In June there were a tons of products that I really enjoyed. In November, I really liked that the box had a cohesive look to it.

Overall, I think 2018 was a great year for Boxycharm, and it has definitely gotten better over the years. What was your favourite Boxycharm products this year?

xoxo

Lea

Beauty, Favourites, Review

Revisiting my 2017 Favourites

by LeaLeave a Comment on Revisiting my 2017 Favourites

Hey guys! So today’s post is inspired by a video by Diary of a Beauty Guru Wannabe, who was inspired by Alexandria S. The idea is to look back at our favourites from last year and to give our updated thoughts. I thought this was amazing idea, so I am giving you guys my update here!

So last year I had five favourites: The Jaclyn Hill Palette, the Laura Lee Cat’s Pajamas palette, the Wet n Wild Photo Focus Foundation, the Colourpop Blotted Lip in Drip and the L’Oreal Lash Paradise.  Some of my thoughts are quite different!

First, I still love the Jaclyn Hill Palette. I still think this is probably one of the best palettes I own. I just love the shade range, and I have created so many different looks with this palette. I also have convinced a few of my friends to buy this palette as well. Definitely still one of my favourites!

Now anyone who is really into the beauty community knows all the controversy that happened with Laura Lee this year. If you don’t know what I’m talking about you can just Google it. I’m not really sure how I feel about this whole situation, but I will say that I haven’t used my Laura Lee products as much since all of this drama happened. I will say this is still a great palette, and I think the quality of the eye shadows are great. We will see what happens in 2019 with the beauty community…

The Wet n Wild foundation was my favourite for awhile. I think it so much that I bought a second shade. This is foundation is still pretty amazing, especially for the price point.  I do find this foundation to be a little heavy, and sometimes it can look cakey on my face if I apply too much. Lately I have been using a different foundation more, which I will talk about in my 2018 favourites. Overall this is still a foundation I recommend, but I don’t use it as often.

The Colourpop Blotted Lip in Drip was my favourite lippie of 2017, and I still love it. I used it most of this year as well, but sometime in the summer I lost it and now I can’t find it. I decided that I would repurchase it when I eventually make another Colourpop order. Except I just went to check the website for this blog post and it’s been discontinued! I am so upset, Colourpop why did you do this to me?? If you guys know of a sheer but matte lipstick let me know!

The final product is the L’Oreal Lash Paradise. This was everyone‘s favourite mascara last year. I used it most of the year as well, but I haven’t repurchased it since it last dried out on me. I really do like this mascara, and it’s a great price. But I found that this mascara dried up really quickly, and whenever it was starting to go it made my lashes look clumpy. I have been enjoying other mascaras recently, which is why I haven’t repurchased it. I might buy it again in the future though, who knows!

And those were my favourite products of 2017 and my updated thoughts on the products. I find it so funny that I only had five favourites, this year I have way more haha! Also life update: I am officially done exams, but next week I am going to Mexico! I will try to post when I can, but I am unsure what the wifi will be like. But I will have a blog post go up next week 🙂

xoxo

Lea

Beauty, Favourites, Review

Sephora VIB Sale Recommendations

by Lea1 Comment on Sephora VIB Sale Recommendations

Hey guys! It’s that time of year again – time for the Sephora Sale!! This weekend is the sale for those who are VIB Status, which is 20% off. Next weekend is the sale for everyone who is a Beauty Insider, which is 15% off. Sephora doesn’t do sales very often, so this is the time of the year to make some purchases! I have decided to round up my recommendations on what to buy from Sephora.

VIB Sales

1. Stock-up on frequently used products

If you’re like me, you probably have some ride-or-die products that you go through pretty quickly. For me, that’s my Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz and my Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray. This are products that I use daily, so it’s nice to stock up on them.

2. A Beauty Blender or Brushes

Having good tools make applying makeup easier. If you have a good brush you can make even a mediocre product look better. Things like Beauty Blenders are expensive and maybe not the most exciting thing to purchase, so it’s nice to buy them when there is a discount available. I use my Beauty Blender daily to blend my concealer and apply powder, and while there are some drugstore dupes they’re not as great as the original. There are so many different brushes available at Sephora, but some of my favourite are the actual Sephora Collection ones. They have both sets and individual brushes, and some really cute ones too!

3. Skincare

Skincare can be expensive man! But it’s important to take care of your skin, because it makes makeup apply easier. There are so many amazing skincare brands at Sephora, and obviously every has different skin types, so what I like might be different than you. Some of my favourite brands are Origins, First Aid Beauty and Peter Thomas Roth.

4. Palettes

Palettes are probably some of the most expensive makeup items, so getting them during a sale is a great way to save money. Last VIB sale I bought Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam palette and the Tarte PRO Glow Highlight and Contour Palette. I really like both of them! Urban Decay and Too Faced also make some great eyeshadow palettes. Maybe I do a palette collection post sometime, let me know if you guys want me to do that!

5. Fun Purchases

I know that is a broad category, but I mean something that you would not purchase/use on a regular basis. Some examples include a new lipstick, some glitter or even false lashes! My lipstick recommendation are the Bite Beauty ones! They currently have some nice gift sets, so perfect time to try them out. For glitter, you can never go wrong with the Stila glitter eyeshadow – I own two and love them both. I also just bought the Urban Decay Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliner, I will let you guys know how I like them. Finally, for lashes there are so many different ones, so it really depends on what you like/are looking for. I’ve tried the Sephora Collection ones and they are pretty good!

Those are my recommendations for the VIB sale! I also recommend to just try whatever product you have had on your wish list for awhile! The best time to try something is when you can get it on sale!

I personally only got a few products, so I will probably not being writing a full blog post of what I got. But check out my Instagram (@xoxoxoleelee) because I will definitively be showing what I got on there!

xoxo

Lea