H&M Collaboration: The Vampire’s Wife

How exciting is this collab? This Haute Cult line by Suzie Cave is coming to H&M, in limited release, at a price point that doesn’t call for taking out a second mortgage. Those who have been eying her creations, which typically run $900-$2,000 for dresses, can rejoice! SO far, this appears to be a solid collection, and the dresses definitely have the same design as some of her $900 pieces. This is a collection sure to please the darkly inclined gal who has a pension for velvet, lace, ruffles and bows. I plan to pick up the 3 mini dresses, cape, T-shirt, and possibly some of the jewelry.

Available in stores and online 22 October 2020

Melt Cosmetics Amor Eterno Collection

I was a drooling mess when I first read about the Amore Eterno Collection and it’s Día de Muertos theme. Not only that, but my jaw dropped to the floor when I saw the amazing artwork of both boxes and the palette casing itself. The line consists of the following products:

• The Vida Palette ($58)
• The Muerte Palette (58)
• The Iluminacion Highlighter ($39)
• Fiesta Liquid Lipsticks ($19 each)
• Gel Liners ($19 each)

I managed to get my hands on both of the eye shadow palettes on early release, and I have to say these are beyond beautiful, both aesthetically and via performance. Vida is a lively and vibrant 10 pan palette full of green, red, orange and yellow hues, as well as a chocolate shade and taupes which work perfectly as transitional shades. The palette also includes one green shimmer shade. I found the 9 mattes to be one swipe opacity shades, and all 10 smooth and easy to work with. The Muerte palette is chalk full of deep tones, to include cranberries, deep blues and marine greens. Like it’s sister, there is a transition type depth shade in black, and not one but two shimmers, in green and blue. Also like it’s hermana palette, the shades are smooth, easy to work with, and opaque. While I don’t lean toward wearing dark shades, I am excited to have this one also to complete this limited release collection. While I did not pick up any other items from the collection, I have no doubts they are amazing as well. They certainly are gorgeous!

The Amore Eterno collection will be available for purchase October 30th 2019 on Melt Cosmetics website.

I Smell: Tom Ford Lost Cherry Review

“LOST CHERRY’S CANDY-LIKE GLEAM OF EXOTIC BLACK CHERRY AND LIQUEUR, TOUCHED WITH TEASING ALMOND, GIVES WAY TO A TURKISH ROSE AND JASMINE SAMBAC BLEND THAT PENETRATE THE SENSES. THE FULL-BODIED PERFUME ATTAINS FANTASY-LIKE LEVELS OF INSATIABILITY. LIKE THE PLUMP FRUIT WAITING TO BE EATEN, LOST CHERRY IS POWERFUL AND INSATIABLE. NOTES OF CHERRY LIQUEUR AND A TOUCH OF BITTER ALMOND DRIP INTO ITS HEART, GLOSSING IT WITH CANDY-LIKE GLEAM.”–TOM FORD

Per Fragrantica’s scent profile of Tom Fords Lost Cherry, the top notes are Sour Cherry, Bitter Almond and Liquor; middle notes are Sour Cherry, Plum, Turkish Rose and Jasmine Sambac; base notes are Tonka Bean, Vanilla, Peru Balsam, Benzoin, Cinnamon, Sandalwood, Cedar, Cloves, Vetiver and Patchouli… I would say I get all of these, however, they are all quite fleeting. On initial spray I get a delicious blast of boozy cherry and almond, which is what excited me the most about this release. In less than 5 minutes, the cherry lightens a bit and intermingles with the plum, rose, tonka bean and benzoin. Unfortunately this goes into a light, almost skin scent in 15-20 minutes. While the lighter transition of this is still quite lovely, I no longer get any of the initial notes, and am left with that sweet woody brandy-like Tom Ford base which makes up the majority of his fragrances.

Is this a nice and unique scent? Yes. Is it worth the price tag of $350 for 50 ml? I suppose that all depends. I have been searching for the perfect cherry almond scent and those I have tried all failed me – they were either too sweet or permeated synthetic notes (or both). Since I am a collector, and I have nothing else like this in my collection, I am happy to have purchased this upon it’s release this month.

Review: The Waterweight Line by MAC

I didn’t really pay much mind to all of the hoopla surrounding the release of MAC’s waterweight foundation a few years back because I haven’t used a MAC foundation in upward 15 years. As I have gotten older so has my skin, and all of their foundations just began to sit heavy on my face and settle into laugh lines, even when they were lighter weight formulations. Per usual though, an impromptu stop into MAC and discovery of this lines recent expansion prompted my interest.

Studio Waterweight Foundation + SPF 30 ($35.00) This foundation is feather-light, yet somehow manages to provide a decent amount of coverage for me, and the SPF is a major perk. It plays well with other products, such as lotions, creams, and primers. The foundation itself is gel-like in consistency, feeling and acting more like a serum than foundation, which is great. I find it to be moisturizing, and it feels good on the skin. Wear time on this is slightly below average to me, and begins to somewhat fade out and off after about 6 hours. Even so, I am so impressed by the sort of “oomph” it gives my skin that I just utilize it for those mellow, medium active days. [For reference I am NC30 in this foundation]

Studio Waterweight Concealer ($23.00) This concealer is gel like and feather weight just like its big sister. I find the hydration on the concealer to also mimic that of the foundation. Truth be told, this could actually act as a better version of the foundation (providing more coverage). I find the wear time of this product to be a bit longer than the foundation; however, it does tend to crease just a smidgen around fine lines about 6-ish hours in. On the upside, its so easily bendable that you can just tap your fingers and smooth out the creasing without upsetting the coverage at all. On the downside, this contains no SPF – kind of a head scratcher to me, given that the delicate eye area really calls for protection. [For reference I am NW25 in this concealer]

Studio Waterweight Pressed Powder ($36.00) This powder is buttery soft, and somehow manages to feel hydrating. It evened out my skintone and seemed to smooth imperfections. It also leaves no powdery or dry look behind, which is a major plus. This is lovely be it used with or without foundation underneath. Used in conjunction with the waterweight foundation, it does set nicely and seems to give lasting power in terms of overall coverage. In terms of cons, the shade range is lacking which can make it difficult to find a match. Likewise, these are dual shaded powders with one half being slightly pink, and I found the first color I picked up which was a perfect match initially (Medium Plus) oxidized badly within the first hour and I had to exchange it and go lighter. However, once you find that perfect shade, you will be pleasantly surprised by how much the skin seems to love this formulation. This is one of the best feeling powders I have ever tried/used. [For reference I am shade Medium in this powder]

106 Triangular Concealer Brush ($25.00) This was a major miss for me. Although I was entranced with it via the application and usage via the MAC makup artist’s magical hands, once I got home and tried this on my own a couple times I was in misery. The bristles are really stiff, the shape is awkward,  and I found it to really pull and tug at the delicate eye area. This was a fail all around and I am betting this will be discontinued in a hot minute.

All in all, I am a fan of the Studio Waterweight line. So much in fact that I’d love to see expansion in the way of ultrahydrating lip products, as well as serums and the like.

 

Très Chic Fashionistas: Luxe Blog Salutes Bianca Jagger

Oh Bianca, Bianca, Bianca! I am giddy just writing this. Halston’s muse, night life’s “it girl”, socialite AND human rights warrior.

While there are many women whose styles I respect, I like to keep the VIP Diva room in my mind down to Queen Coco, Marlene Dietrich, Catherine Deneuve, Joan Crawford, Rita Mareno, Dita Von Teese and Madam Bianca. While I am tempted to add Jane Russell, Elizabeth Taylor, Donatella, Tura Satana and Joan Collins in there, I am trying to avoid cat fights within the delicate walls of my hypothalamus. … Again for the record, no I am not a gay male. But I digress…

Here’s the interesting thing about the 1970’s- when I think of fashion icons of this decade, Other than Jerry Hall Bianca, nothing but men come to mind. Bowie for his crisp Berlin/Heroes look, Halston and YSL for their designs. So in a sense, perhaps Bianca just THAT much of a fashion guru, being that she kicked Le Smoking into high gear with edgy classic femininity. It would have been so easy fto have done it all wrong Annie Hall, in the decade of sequins and polyester, wouldn’t it?  Other than Dietrich, no one has ever rocked the menswear look like Mizz B. And quite frankly, no one since has either.

When you mix beauty, exotica, style, aloofness, mystery and brains, you get one hellofa devaliocious icon.

Bianca Pérez-Mora Macias Jagger: Luxe Blog solutes (and worships) you.

Purchase or Pass: The Genius Line by Algenist

Genius Ultimate Anti-Aging Bi-Phase Peel ($85.00, 1.69 oz)

Claims: For the first time ever, this bi-phase formula combines the powerful effects of a peel with the nourishing benefits of Microalgae Oil. Glycolic and salicylic acids work together for gentle, highly effective skin exfoliation and renewal while Microalgae Oil leaves skin feeling soothed, nourished, and deeply conditioned. The two phases combine to offer an unparalleled experience – the effectiveness of a peel, with the luxurious benefits of an oil…

Real Time Results:  I LOVE this resurfacing treatment! It does an excellent job of exfoliating the skin and leaves the complexion radiant. It packs an incredibly powerful punch (yes, it does sting) yet somehow manages to moisturize (likely the addition of oils). Would I repurchase? Yes. Matter of fact I have two backup bottles in my cabinet.

Genius Ultimate Anti-Aging Melting Cleanser ($38.00, 5 oz)

Claims: This unique, luxurious melting cleanser is the best of biotechnology and offers an unparalleled sensorial experience. The powerful formula combines both Alguronic Acid, a patented anti-aging breakthrough, and a new source of nourishing oil, Microalgae Oil, to visibly replenish and smooth skin. This transforming cleanser melts into a silky oil to gently and effectively lift away all traces of long-wearing makeup. Upon contact with water, this lightweight oil turns into a milky emulsion and rinses clean to wash away impurities leaving skin beautifully cleansed, soft and radiant looking. This new cleansing sensation delivers an unparalleled sensorial experience.

Real Time Results: I’m a little on the fence with this one… If we are to judge solely by the claims, then this is indeed an epic fail. This is grotesquely inefficient in removing makeup, and it absolutely does not rinse away easily. In fact, it takes a hellofalotta work to remove this product, and therefore is a terrible night cleanser in terms of interference of other products due to its thick sort of residual layer left behind. On the other side of that coin, it has a lovely scent (that sort of burnt coconut scent I am in love with) and contains beneficial oils – therefore I find this to be a nice skin treat for mornings when no makeup or additional products are to be used. Would I repurchase? No. But then again, I use it so infrequently this will last me forever and a day.

GENIUS Ultimate Anti-Aging Vitamin C+ Serum ($118.00 for 1 oz)

Claims: this powerful vegan formula combines patented Alguronic Acid, our breakthrough anti-aging discovery, with nourishing Microalgae Oil, both naturally sourced and sustainably produced, and a potent Vitamin C derivative to help visibly brighten skin, minimize fine lines and wrinkles. The most fragile skin texture appears strengthened and skin’s youthful, even radiance is revealed. Replenishes, nourishes and delivers smoother looking skin, Lessens the appearance of wrinkles, Brightens skin, and Boosts brightness and radiance for a uniform complexion…

Real Time Results: Um…No. This product actually did so much of nothing that I was angered. And still am. I had extremely high hopes for this based on hundreds of incredibly stellar reviews and award winning status. However, I saw absolutely no change in tone or texture, nor any additional moisturization. After 3 months of use 4-5 days per week, both morning and evening, I should minimally have been left with less dryness. This was a complete let-down. I will not be repurchasing.

Genius Ultimate Anti-Aging Cream ($112.00 for 2 oz)

Claims: Nourish your skin while boosting overall radiance and improving resilience and elasticity with Algenist Genius Ultimate Anti-Aging Cream. The advanced formula combines alguronic acid with microalgae oil, which is a plant-based collagen, to help deliver a firmer, tighter, more toned appearance…

Real Time Results: After 3 months of morning use, 4-5 days per week, I have yet to note any visible changes or improvements to my skin. However, I really love the lightweight feel to this cream, its whipped consistency, and the sort of roasted coconut scent of it is beyond intoxicating to me. I am a fan of this under oils, on hot days, and when there is no need for a heavy moisturizer. This also makes for a wonderful base under powder foundations. Will I continue to use this until empty most days? Yes. Would I repurchase? Yes, for summertime use.

Conclusions: While I liked a few of the products in this line, and can rate those I liked from “rockin enough to repurchase'” to “fawk yeah!”, I definitely feel this line is overpriced based on what is actually delivered. Truth be told, the products I rate highly in this line impress me more due to aromatherapy (that darn coconut scent!) than any actual results supplied (skin nourishment, moisturization). With the exception of the peel, as this one truly does deliver IMO. I could definitely live without the products in this line which I enjoyed using, and can certainly find comparable replacements if need be (and for less $$$). But if you have problematic skin, particularly if it is dry and/or texturized, along with extra cash burning a hole in your pocket, I say give the cleanser, peel, and facial cream a try.

 

Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Drops this Month!

Review: Urban Decay Heat Palette

Confession time: This is the first UD shadow palette I have ever purchased… I know, I know – but hear me out! I had no real need for the Naked 1, 2, or 3 because they were chalk full of neutrals and transitional shades that I already own a plethora of in single form from various cosmetic co’s. As for UD’s other palettes, they were either smokey (which is my nemesis) or (again) dupes of shades I already owned. Until I spotted this baby that is. When I saw this, it was impulse buy central – my inner warm toned adoring demon took over, and I went for it. This palette is on FIRE.

This is a beautiful palette consisting of 12 lovely neutral and warm shades. This palette is seriously the rainbow of warm hues – well, if one existed. There are ambers, browns, burnt oranges, rich siennas, copper tones, shifty bronzes, and rust shades. It consists of both mattes and shimmers, and can be worked into day or evening looks. The pigmentation is marvelous, staying power is excellent, and I got no creasing or fading. Dispite the fact there are so many similarly hued shades in this palette, the colors did not muddy at all. I see you UD, yes, I see what you did.

While I love the shades and performance, I am not a huge fan of the bulky packaging. However, I can get over that. I think this is an excellent and well priced palette for the warm shadow lovers out there.

 

 

Beauty Heroes May Beauty Discovery: Circle of Protection By max and me

A guardian of skin and spirit, Circle of Protection is an exquisite body oil that works on a physical and energetic level to support radiance and luminosity, inside and out. Blended with highly vibrant plant materials and essences, every application is a baptism of light energy, shielding and strengthening the subtle body. Delicately fragrant vetiver, bourbon geranium, brightening magnolia, uplifting jasmine and  shielding manuka envelope the aura while high vibrations of litsea and silver fir, attract cosmic protection and white light. Skin looks more radiant and supple while mind and soul rediscover serenity. With a regular ritual, Circle of Protection helps harmonize our inner and outer worlds, bringing a sense of balance and peace. [Credit: Beauty Heroes website] 

This months Beauty heroes box included a full size Circle of Protection Body Oil and travel size with pump, and a sample of Enchanted Face Oil.

The Circle of Protection Body Oil by Max and Me is a lovely and luxurious body oil made up of a unique blend of moisturizing and antioxidant oils (to include argan, marula, and rosehip) along with a variety of additional potent plant ingredients. It also includes aromatherapeutic components of vetiver, bourbon geranium, manuka honey, exotic litsea, silver fir, and jasmine. I found this body oil to be unique in that its created not only to nourish the skin, but the senses for mood uplifting. This product soaked in quickly and left my skin feeling silky and quite moisturized. Although I am beyond overstocked in body creams and oils right now, they have nothing on the M&M oil, as they are perfumed and artificially scented, somewhat synthetic (IE Jo Malone, Diptique body oil, etc). Thus this green beauty is an excellent addition. I also find the scent of this product aids in relaxation, and its a perfect night-time, before bed scent. Subbies received both the full size version and a travel size – the full size version is 3.38 oz and retails at $75.00, while the travel size is 10 ml and retails at $15.00. Being that this was both the hero product and the sidekick, I have yet to open the larger size bottle – as I make my way through the travel size, its obvious this oil will last a very long time.

The Enchanted Face Oil is infused with argan, marula, wild rose, pomegranate and evening primrose oils. Its luxuriously scented through an infusing of jasmine, ylang-ylang, champaca, frangipani, wild mountain lavender and rose. I found it to be a unique facial oil, much like that of its big-sister oil: The scent is simply intoxicating. As for performance, well, its a face oil. And believe it or not, my face hates essential oil type oils and can only handle really simplistic oil blends in my oil mixes. I find that there are many alternative oil blends out there which my skin loves, and this one I would need to be quite sparing with in order to avoid irritation. Since this was only a 2 ml, $5.00 sample size, its a nice sort of addition to use on a pampering day down the road, as I could get a couple more uses out of it easily.

All in all I am quite happy with the body oil, as its something I likely would not have splurged on otherwise. This is also a great introduction to the brand Max & Me. May’s Beauty Discovery Box is valued at $95.

NOTE: Beauty Heroes Subscription box is paid for by me and only moi- it is not gifted, sponsored, or anything of the like. All opinions are solely my own. Prior to blogging and opinionatin’ on sub box products, I use them for the entirety of the month, and give my thoughts toward the end of the month in which products are received. 

Spotlight on: Makeup Monsters Cosmetics

You want an amazing liquid lipstick in quirky uniquely fun packaging? Are you into bold and offbeat aesthetics? Do you need your lip colors in a wide variety to fit whatever mood you may indulge in on any given day? Well, Makeup Monsters is likely the answer to your vanity woes.

Makeup Monsters is an indie cosmetics company founded in 2015 in Spokane Washington. From their webpage:

“At Makeup Monsters, we embrace individuality and exude fun in everything that we do! After-all, in the end, makeup should always include fun. Our brand focuses on creating broad color selections to suit anyone’s tastes and high quality formulas that will leave a lasting impression. Our products are made with the highest quality ingredients and are vegan and cruelty free! When you purchase from our brand, you’re not only supporting a small business with a big heart, you’re becoming a part of a family that encourages individuality in the makeup community and stands against the testing and using of animals for beauty…”

I purchased 6 of their matte liquid lipsticks ($15.95 each): Redwood, Cornucopia, Nefarious, Blackened Heart, Just Add Marshmallows, and Hook, Line, and Sinker. Every one of these applied and wore like a dream. One swipe coverage, completely opaque with an even finish, and I got no feathering. These wore 6 hours+ and through meals with minimal fading.  I did not find these to be overly drying at all – in fact, I felt they were quite light and comfortable. The formula is of a great and comfortable consistency as well – not too watery or thin, and not overly thick. Transfer is minimal, to the point I barely took notice. TBH, these liquid lipsticks are a wonderful alternative for those (like me) who have given up a certain brand’s LL’s for ethical reasons [AKA he who shall not be mentioned by name]. Matter of fact, the formulation and consistency, some of the colors, and packaging is incredibly similar to “you know who’s”, almost to the point I wonder if they share a manufacturer. The color range of these is impressive; while I stayed in the fairly neutral-esque zone (flesh, browns, bricks, and greige), there is a wide range from unique fun brights to neutrals and much in between. Full disclosure: The more I wear these MM liquid lipsticks, the more impressed I am. While Stila is still my #1, MM is only a hair behind.

If you are a LL fanatic or addict, and you are looking to support indie brands, you cannot and will not go wrong giving this brand a whirl.