July Makeup Favorites

I'd love to say that I've been saving my money, but I can't. I try and justify my purchases by reviewing them for this blog and for Pretty Chatty. There's a lot of products that were everyday staples on my desk and in my purse during July. Some are brand new and some are old favorites.

Face Products:

Revlon Colorstay Whipped Creme Makeup- This is my current go to foundation because it gives really amazing coverage while still feeling light and lasting a long time. It's basically the perfect summer face makeup for me. I broke out a lot during my trip to Alaska and this made my face still look flawless, but not cakey. I have to say it was difficult to pick my shade because they all look the same in the jar, but I would imagine if you use the original Colorstay that the colors match? It's also less like whipped creme and more like the consistency of ice cream or whipped cream that's starting to melt. haha

Sonia Kashuk Hidden Agenda Concealer Palette- An old tried and true concealer favorite. It's an amazing value with four different squares: a lighter shade, a darker shade, a green tone for concealing redness, and a setting powder. I use this for my blemishes, redness, and for my undereye circles too. 

COVERGIRL Clean Oil Control Pressed Powder- I picked this up on a whim from Target and I'm so glad I did. It's a great setting powder without being overwhelmingly cakey or breaking me out because it's oil free. I blot during the day if my foundation happens to start melting and it leaves me looking matte.

OPI Strawberry Margarita- This wonderfully pink punchy polish was purchased for me by my best friend, Courtney, for my birthday. It's a great summer staple for nails or toes and the formula is opaque in one coat. 

Eye Products

COVERGIRL LashBlast Volume Waterproof- This is one of the best drugstore waterproof mascaras available. It doesn't smudge, smear, or move. It stays put when it has to and it removes easily with eye makeup remover when the day is done. I like layering this over my L'Oreal Voluminous when I know it's going to be hot out (so basically everyday in Arizona) or when I'm going swimming and my lashes look very thick and black.

Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12 Hr Smoothing Eye Primer- I love this eye primer a lot. I have the mini size and it's lasted me over a month. This primer is like a hybrid of Too Faced Shadow Insurance and Urban Decay Primer Potion. It's thicker than Shadow Insurance, but thinner than Primer Potion and a little goes a long way. My shadows don't melt or crease and stay put even after a long day at work. I even use this under my undereye concealer to keep that from creasing.

Lip Products

Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Sweetheart Valentine- I love love love this product!!! I talked about it in my new summer beauty releases and I was right, it's phenomenal and it's inexpensive. I can't compare it to the Tarte Lip Surgence pencils because I've never used one of those, but it's a great long lasting twist up chubby pencil stain. I think the colors just pop and really stain your lips. I haven't heard great things about the lighter colors because they're sheerer and don't wear quite as long as the brighter, deeper colors.

Chapstick Lip Shield 365- This has been my go to lip balm because it's perfect for all kinds of weather. I used it everyday on the cruise because the colder weather really dried out my lips and I've been using it everyday since I've been home because of the SPF 50. It moisturizes and protects your lips from sun burn perfectly. 

(Picture via)

NARS Joie De Vivre Cheek Palette- Ohhhh I saved the best for last, absolutely. Surprise!! This is mine and Hannah's birthday present to each other. (If you remember, the Urban Decay NAKED 2 was our Christmas present to each other haha.) I first spotted this a few weeks ago in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale preview catalog and I texted Hannah instantly, knowing it'd be a must purchase item. We're self proclaimed NARS blush-aholics. We both passed on the Sephora exclusive Danmari blush palette this past winter and we're so happy we did because this is right up our alley color selection wise. It's a Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Exclusive and contains Laguna bronzer, Albatross highlighter, and blushes in Orgasm (our favorite), Angelika, Luster, and Gaiety. I'm so happy to finally have my hands on it because it's perfect. Make sure to snatch it up quick if you want it because at $65 it's an amazing value and there is a limited selection for a limited time starting for Nordstrom cardholders today and the public next week, I believe. 

Let me know in the comments what you're current makeup favorites are and definitely follow my blog if you haven't already!!! 

xx - Dan

#PackingProblems: Makeup Addiction

Y'all know me. You know I have a makeup/beauty product addiction. The first step is admitting you have a problem and I really really do. Surprisingly, packing clothing was much easier in comparison to this mess that I dealt with, with packing makeup for 9 days in rain, humidity, and cold. It was a definite struggle, but I finally was satisfied as of last night. I really wanted to stay very low maintenance during the day time, but still have the option to dress up my makeup for night time. I consider these products truly the bare minimum for me. For this trip, I decided that taking my Sonia Kashuk Weekender Cosmetic Bag was the best option because of all of the great compartments it has. I will be tossing this bad boy in my Longchamp (my carry on).

I'm going to break it down by the two big zippered sections and then by product types themselves. I'd say this is also a favorites post of sorts because these are obviously my favorites enough that I can't live without them for 9 days. ;) You'll also notice that in one of the compartments, I have a ziplock of misc. products. Those are my "liquids," so that I can easily access them when I get to the security checkpoint. I highly recommend this if you're carrying your makeup on. When in doubt, call it a liquid because you don't want your favorite product getting tossed at the airport.

Back section- one clear pocket (face and palettes), brush compartment

Front section- two removable clear pouches that velcro to the side (lips & eyes)

Sleeve- Quart sized ziplock with liquids

Brushes:

• Walmart Powder Brush (Bronzer, MSF)
• E.L.F. Studio Powder Brush (Foundation)
• E.L.F. Professional Bronzing Brush (Conturing) 
• Sonia Kashuk Blush Brush (Blush)
• Sonia Kashuk Pointed Foundation Brush (Concealer)
• Walmart Blending Brush
• Urban Decay Double Ended Shadow and Crease Brush
• E.L.F. Professional Defining Eye Brush
• Sonia Kashuk Eyeshadow Brush
• Sonia Kashuk Pointed Pencil Brush

Face:

• Revlon Colorstay Whipped Cream Makeup in 320 Warm Golden
• Tarte Clean Slate Poreless 12 Hr Perfecting Primer
• Murad Oil Control Mattifier SPF 15
• Sheer Cover Duo Concealer in Medium/Tan
• MAC Studio Finish Concealer in NW25
• MAC Select Cover-Up in NW25
• MAC Cream Colour Base in Seaside (Limited Edition no longer available) 
• MAC Studio Fix in NW30
• MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in Semi Precious Crystal Pink
• Victoria's Secret Baked Mineral Bronzing Powder in Glitterati 
• NARS Blush in Orgasm

Eyes:

• Tarte Clean Slate 360 Creaseless 12 Hr Smoothing Eye Primer
• Revlon Eyelash Curler
• Maybelline Master Drama by Eyestudio in Bold Brown
• Wet n Wild ColorIcon Shimmer Eye Pencil in Black Noir
• Maybelline Color Tattoo by Eyestudio 24 Hr Eyeshadow in Bad to the Bronze
• Maybelline Illegal Length Mascara in Blackest Black
• L'Oreal Voluminous Carbon Black Mascara
• Covergirl Lash Blast Volume Waterproof Mascara
• Urban Decay NAKED 2 Palette
• MAC Eyeshadows in an E.L.F. Elements Quad: Naked Lunch, Saddle, Quarry, & Nocturnelle

Lips:

• Vaseline Lip Therapy Original
• Chapstick LipShield 365
• Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF15
• Fresh Sugar Rose Lip Treatment SPF15
• MAC Lipstick in Party Parrot (Limited Edition no longer available)
• Revlon Lip Butter in Peach Parfait
• Revlon Lip Butter in Candy Apple
• Jordana EasyLiner for Lips Retractable Pencil in Sedona Red
• NARS Lip Gloss in Turkish Delight
• MAC Lip Glass in Pink Lemonade
• Palladio Herbal Lip Gloss in EleventhGorgeous 

The key to knowing if you've packed everything you need is to use only your bag of items for a few days prior to the trip. I hope this was helpful and that you found my #PackingProblems series useful. Check out all of the posts from the beginning below!

#PackingProblems- Intro | Clothing | Shoes | Formal Nights | Makeup

xx - Dan

#PackingProblems: Formal Cruise Nights

Okay, let me be honest here. One of my absolute favorite parts of going on a cruise is having an excuse to get dressed up. My extremely boring life does not give me many opportunities to put on a cute cocktail dress and pumps and go out. The most dressed up I ever get is a LBD and my black blazer for work...not too exciting. I wasn't planning on doing this post, but after someone asked me on tumblr what I'm bringing. I decided, what the heck. 

If you read my #PackingProblems: Clothing List, you'll know I decided on two fancier dresses for the two formal dinner nights. But after a quick closet scan a few days ago I realized that I purchased a fairly pricey floor length black dress in hopes of attending a Christmas party in December and knew that it also had to make the trip. (This is why I have packing problems.) 

Typically the dress code for the elegant nights is a cocktail dress or nice skirt and blouse, basically not your everyday dining wear. No jeans, leggings, etc. Some cruises let you get away with that, but I just enjoy the whole aspect of getting all dolled up and fancified. I'd stick with blacks and solid colors because they absolutely make accessorizing that much easier. Dressing for the formal nights doesn't need to be an extravagant expense because usually you'll have something in your closet especially if you're in a sorority where date parties and socials are frequent. If you find yourself craving a new dress or two, head to Forever21 or H&M for an inexpensive option. These places can be hit or miss, but just scour the racks. I found that first dress by accident and it fits wonderfully and will be worn many more times for sure. 

I've broken each of my three dresses down into the dress, shoes, and added purse. Please excuse my super awkward mirror pictures and my messy bun. 

Outfit #1: Black & White BodyCon Dress

Dress- Forever21

Shoes- Steve Madden

Clutch- Charming Charlie

Outfit #2: Little Red Dress aka My Birthday Dress

Dress- Rachel Rachel Roy

Shoes- Steve Madden

Glitter Crossbody- Forever21

Outfit #3: Floor Length Black Dress

Dress- Express

Shoes- Enzo Angiolini

I hope this was super helpful if you're setting sail on a cruise soon and looking for formal night ideas. If you haven't checked out my previous #PackingProblems posts, check them out below!

#PackingProblems- Intro | Clothing | Shoes | Formal Nights | Makeup

xx - Dan

Baby Haul from Target and Sephora

Yesterday I took a quick jaunt to Target and to Sephora to pick up some travel-y type products. I had a gift card to Target and surprisingly I had enough money to buy the three things I had on my list (and only those items!):

• E.L.F. Essentials Custom Compact w/Mirror- I love love love this $1 fillable eyeshadow quad from ELF. It's the perfect alternative to the MAC empty quad because MAC eyeshadows fit perfectly. I don't want to take my whole MAC palette on vacation, so I'm using this to take my 4 shadows. 
• up & up Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes- I found this 10 pack in the travel sized aisle of Target to use to take off my makeup before I repurchase my MAC Cleanse Off Oil. 
• Clear Scalp & Hair Beauty Therapy Shampoo and Conditioner- I've seen some commercials for this line lately and was curious since my scalp tends to get damaged during the hotter months and they're travel sized for the trip!

I've had my eye on one skin care line for the past few months, so I finally gave in and purchased a 7 piece starter travel set. 

• Ole Henriksen Seven Skincare Sensations- I've heard rave reviews about Ole Henriksen and was excited to pick up this set of half sizes of some of his most popular products. This line addresses hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, acne, dull skin, and large pores. It's a great value too at only $55 for $115 worth of products. You'll be seeing a review soon. 

I hope you enjoyed this mini haul of mine.

xx - Dan

Friday Favorites

HAPPY JUNE LOVELIES!!! When you're reading this, I'll probably be fast asleep after three super duper long days of 7 or 8 hour shifts at work. I always feel more productive when this actually goes up early on Fridays anyway. 

• GT with not so much L- Lately my weekdays have started out with a lot of the Gym. It's my perfect start to the day because I feel more productive and energized. I've been following it up with some tanning because come on who doesn't get a base tan before Alaska...(*crickets*) Okay, I also just like having color with my rocking bod, guys. Just kidding. haha
• Spring Beauty Vox Box- I can't really remember how I found out about this amazing website called Influenster, but I'm so so glad I did. Basically, you get FREE shipments of products that fit your lifestyle to try out and review (similar to BzzAgent, except for it's usually multiple brands of products at once.) I was so excited to get my Spring Beauty Vox Box after my Birchbox was a bust. I was super pleased with the products I received and will be doing an overview of all of them here soon, so look out for that!!
• Arm Parties- Everyone and their mother is into stacking and mixing and matching bracelets and watches right now. I'm planning on bringing just a whole ton of bracelets with my rose gold Michael Kors watch to accessorize on vacay. I've found some of my favorite stacking bracelets at Forever 21 (here, here, and here), Windsor (here, here, and here), and Target (here and here).
• Neon colored jeans- I'm finally finally FINAAAALLY joining the neon jeans party. I'm trading my royal blue and red jeans for these fabulous lemon yellow ones from American Eagle.
• Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15- I fell in love when I bought the Sephora Sun Safety kit and was so excited to finally get my hands on my Sephora VIB Birthday gift of two minis of the Fresh Sugar Lip Treatments. They smell amazing like lemonade and they're so moisturizing. They even come in different tints. They're pricey for the full size, but so so worth it. 
• Scarves- I'm a huge scarf girl in the fall and winter, but not so much in the spring and summer. But lately I've been loving adding that finishing touch to an outfit with a fun colorful light feeling scarf. It's a wonderful pop that just completes any outfit. 

What are your favorites this Friday? Leave them in the comments and have a wonderful weekend everyone!

xx - Dan

New Makeup Items to Check Out

Summer time always brings about the most fun makeup releases in my opinion! The colors are more fun, everything is made to be long wearing, and it's easy. During the summer, my every day makeup becomes very low maintenance because quite frankly I'm lazy. I'm very excited about all of these really fun products that have just been released/are going to released very soon!

Benefit Cosmetics Snow White and the Huntsman Rare Beauty Kit ($45): Whether you're a Benefit newbie or a seasoned lover, this set promoting the new summer movie, Snow White is perfect for you. It has all of the most popular products: Bad Gal Lash, The Porefessional, High Beam, and Benetint. It's a great value with the train case too.

Maybelline Eyestudio Color Plush Quads: These are my favorite drugstore quads and Maybelline is debuting three new limited edition sets in the lovely Coral Oasis (pictured), Gutsy Green (mixed greens), and Smokey Night (deep colored smokes). They're very pigmented and create fool proof eye looks. 

Essie Summer 2012 "Bikini So Teeny" Collection ($8): I'm seriously obsessed with these colors. They are the perfect in between of neons and pastels. I love the variety in shades. I'm definitely lusting after the cornflower periwinkle blue (Bikini So Teeny), the shimmery bronze (All Tied Up), and the lime green (Mojito Madness)!

Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain ($7.69): I'm calling it right now. These are going to explode very soon. All I've heard are rave reviews from everyone who can get their hands on them. They are literally a twist up pencil balm and stain, not unlike the Tarte Lip Surgences. There are 12 shades for all kinds of effortless lip looks this summer that will last! I'm most excited to get my hands on a few of these.

Tarte Maracuja Creaseless Concealer ($24): One of the newest high end concealers to hit the market  that's full coverage, creamy, and long wearing. Sounds like perfection right? I've heard amazing things about this concealer and I'm definitely planning on picking it up before my trip. It's been said to work well at covering redness and blemishes, but also under eye circles. Tarte's Maracuja Oil has been highly  praised at improving skin's tone, texture and moisture content.

Sephora + Pantone Universe Shades of Nature Eye Shadow Palette ($55): This wonderful eyeshadow palette boasts 35 silky eyeshadows in Pantone shades. It's currently exclusive to Beauty Insiders/VIBs on Sephora, but I think will be available to everyone soon! I've seen mixed reviews, but it's another really cool collaboration between Sephora and the Pantone Universe.

Maybelline Cat Eyes Waterproof Mascara: This package is so darling!! It's honestly what drew me because I'm not the biggest fan of Maybelline's mascara. I love the yellow and orange leopard print. I don't know if it comes in non waterproof, but I would imagine so! I definitely will pick this one up to try out because I really love the cat eye look and would like to see if it lives up to the name!

I hope everyone loved this little summer beauty preview!

xx - Dan

Freaking Cute iPad Cases

To say that I'm excited about getting my iPad would be an understatement. I've been looking at cases for months...not joking unfortunately. haha :) I included my favorite one over on my Birthday Wishlist Wednesday post this week, but I wanted to definitely share some of the others that I really liked too. I love that there are so many really really cute options for under $100 and that a lot of designers have made them fashionable and practical. Enjoy!

Nico and Lala Leopard iPad Cover ($65)

Lilly Pulitzer iPad Sleeve in Multi Sweet Begonia ($26)

Speck FitFolio for iPad in Sprinkle, Twinkle Grey ($39.95)

Deux Lux Resort Glitter iPad Sleeve in Silver ($62)

MARC by Marc Jacobs Pretty Nylon Tablet Case ($68)

Jonathan Adler Gothic Rose iPad Case ($28)

kate spade "Play Hooky" iPad Sleeve ($50)

deux lux Lucky iPad Sleeve in Teal ($64)

Ted Baker London Bow iPad Sleeve in Deep Pink ($70)

kate spade Harrison Stripe iPad Sleeve ($50)

Marley Lilly Monogrammed Tablet Case in Pink and Green Turtle ($29.99)

xx - Dan

Summer Beauty Must Haves

I think one of the biggest challenges about wearing makeup in the summer is looking put together when you're feeling oh so lazy. It's only May, but we're already at over 100 degrees in Arizona, so most days I truly have no desire to even do my makeup because chances are, it will melt rather quickly.  I've found these products to be tried and true in creating an easy, but still pretty look for everyday. I will post this on Pretty Chatty as well, but in case you don't follow Hannah and I (which you should be), I wanted to post it here.

Summer Beauty Must Haves by sprinklesdan featuring eye tattoo makeup

Maybelline Color Tattoo by Eyestudio, $5 - My tried and true cream eyeshadow in Bad to the Bronze stays put and makes it look like you've actually put effort into your eye makeup instead of just sweeping this on with your fingers.
Dr.Jart+ Beauty Balm, $39 - I'm obsessed with my Dr.Jart+ BB Cream. It gives me just enough coverage without being too heavy for the heat. 
Urban Decay De Slick Makeup Setting Spray, $29 - I never thought I'd swear by my Urban Decay Makeup Setting Spray, but I notice a difference in my makeup when I don't use it. I spray it before I apply my makeup and after for a flawless finish all day!
OPI Spiderman Collection My Boyfriend Scales Walls, $8.50 - Love love love! I chose this polish from the new OPI Spiderman Collection because it makes me look ultra tan and it goes with everything.
Aquaphor Healing Ointment Tube 1.75-oz., $5.49 - This is my must have lip product because it seriously makes my lips so soft and moisturized when it's super dry and hot outside.
L'Oreal Voluminous Mascara, $5.84 - One of my holy grail mascaras in the waterproof formula to prevent panda eyes after a long day outside keeping my lashes looking super amazing!


xx- Dan

Absent-ish and an OOTD

Hey lovelies! I haven't been here for the past two days unfortunately, but I have been on mine and Hannah's blog: Pretty Chatty. On Sunday, we posted my very very first Outfit of the Day and it was so much fun to write/work on! I'd definitely appreciate it if you went over there and checked it out and then followed! I hope to incorporate more outfit of the day posts over here as well.

I hope everyone had a fabulous weekend/Cinco de Mayo!! Mine was overwhelming with the move, but I'm happy to be kicking my feet up on our new couch watching, The Blind Side, writing this. I can't wait to show you the progress with my room. I'm super excited about it!!! Eeeeeps. :)

xx - Dan

Friday Rave: Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition

Normally I would do my Friday Favorites today, but I wanted to switch it up and just do a one product rave!

If you've never heard of BzzAgent, click here for more info about you can also receive product samples to try and review for free. A few weeks ago, I received the full sizes of the Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition Shampoo and Conditioner for free because I am a BzzAgent. I'm actually really picky about the products I use in my hair and can never seem to find the perfect shampoo and conditioner to really suit my hair. 

The first time I used this duo of the Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition I was absolutely hooked! The first thing I loved was the smell. I love fruity smelling hair products because they linger for a long time and I love when my hair smells really good all day. I also loved what it did for my hair. It's formulated for dry and damaged hair which for me is perfect because I'm a huge heat styler and hair colorer, so my hair needs constant repair. The shampoo and conditioner are formulated with three nutritive fruit oils: olive, avocado, and shea. I can tell you from personal experience how amazing these oils are on your hair separately, so together they're magic. They work in conjuction to nourish the core, the middle layer of your hair, and of course the surface giving you stronger, healthier, and silky smooth hair.

My hair feels smoother, it's shinier, and it's more manageable which is great. I obviously highly recommend the Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition Shampoo and Conditioner. It's super affordable and definitely head to the Garnier USA Facebook and like the page for exclusive samples and coupons!

Easy Taupe Eye Look

My everyday makeup routine stays pretty consistent. I'm not necessarily lazy, I just like what I like and what I like is neutrals. But every once and awhile when I want to go a little bit bolder on my eyes. I have my own very simple version of a neutral smokey eye with only 6 products that isn't too harsh and can easily be worn during the day time to draw more attention to your eyes. One day, I might get around to actually filming a video tutorial, but for now, I'm just going to share the products I use to achieve that look and a quick description.

1. Maybelline Color Tattoo by Eyestudio in Tough as Taupe all over the lid for a base and primer.

2. Using 5 colors from the Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette: Verve all over the eyelid, Tease in the crease,  Busted in the outer corner/V of eye, Foxy as the best friend blending color, and Blackout to set your eyeliner.

3. L'Oreal Lineur Intense Brush Tip Liquid Eyeliner in Carbon Black to create a defined upper lash line. 

4. Maybelline Illegal Length Fiber Extensions Mascara in two coats on curled upper lashes and bottom lashes too.

5. Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush in Coffee Cake blended onto the apples of the cheeks. 

6. MAC Lipstick in High Tea

I love how simple this taupey smokey look is and how well it plays up the eyes with a neutral cheek and lip added. It's a definite must try for anyone looking to easily amp up their everyday makeup look. 

xx - Dan

Affordable Statement Necklaces under $40

Everyone and their mother has an obsession with statement necklaces this season and therefore posted a blog about it. I've honestly never been big into chucky, obnoxious necklaces. I prefer chunky, obnoxious bracelets all stacked together into an arm party haha. But ever since I saw one episode of ULookHaute's youtube vlogger competition, "Beauty Vlogger Bootcamp" with Elle and Blair where they're both in plain t-shirts with statement baubles, I've been hooked.

I'm always looking for a way to dazzle up the plain t-shirt since I can frequently be found in a white or black scoop or v-neck with jeans. I love the idea of using a statement necklace to make something simple absolutely pop! So far my search for a bold necklace has come up short since I'm trying to stay on a budget. I really don't like to invest in jewelry that I don't think will stay in trend for a long time like larger statement necklaces. There are lots of more expensive options, but not as many cute cheap and not tacky ones. I scoured the mall for cute Danielle like pieces and frequently found ones that were feathered, super tribal, or beaded like a first grade art project at the price I wanted. Boo.

I turned to the internet and here's what I found for all of you lovelies in my boat: looking for a lovely statement piece to add that finishing touch to a simple outfit every day.

From left to right:

1/2/3/4/5/6/7/8/9/10/11/12 

xx - Dan