Thursday, December 27, 2012

DIY: Crochet Lace Scallop Trim Bracelet

Disclaimer: I am not the author of this pattern and I in no way claim to be


About a year ago I came across a YouTube video with instructions on how to crochet this ^ Lace Scallop Trim Bracelet made by Gwen Fisher. I of course watched the video several time so I could write the pattern out and try it myself. I've experimented with different types of yarns/threads and finally came across a finished product in which I absolutely adore. I just have to share this because I think you will enjoy this just as much as I do.To see the video from the pattern's author click HERE. Click here for Gwen's website.


To start your very own scallop bracelet you will need:
  • Crochet Thread (I used Red Heart Fashion Crochet Thread in Coffee)
  • A 3.5 mm crochet hook (This is exactly what this thread calls for)
  • Scissors
  • Sewing Needle 
  • Sewing Thread
  • Beads/Buttons of your choice

Stitches Used:
  • ch
  • sl st
  • sc
  • hdc
  • dc

Start: Slipknot

Row 1:  ch 7, sl st into slipknot

Row 2:  ch 1, turn
             sc, hdc, 7 dc, hdc, sc, sl st, over the chain that was just formed
             (end of first *LARGE* scallop)

Row 3:  ch 1 turn,
             1 sc into the next 2 stitches
             ch 7, turn
             sl st over chain

Row 4:  ch 1, turn
             sc, hdc, 7 dc, hdc, sc, sl st, into last dc of previous scallop
             (end of second scallop)

Row 5:  ch 1, turn
             1 sc into the next 2 stitches
             ch 5, turn
             sl st into dc

Row 6:  ch 1, turn
             sc, hdc, 5 dc, hdc, sc, sl st into last dc of previous scallop
             (end of third scallop)

Row 7:  ch 1, turn
             sc into the next 4 stitches
             ch 6, turn
             sl st into dc

Row 8:  ch 1, turn
             sc, hdc, 6 dc, hdc, sc, sl st into last dc of previous scallop
             (End of next scallop)

Repeat rows 7 and 8 to continue making more scallops for your desired length. Tie off, then weave the ends inside stitches.

To end the bracelet, make a large scallop as you did in row 2. This will act as the button closure.

Sew the button/bead onto the starting end of the bracelet with a needle and thread.

(Tip: to create a seamless look, use a thread close to the color of the bracelet  or use the same thread as you did with the bracelet if possible.)

**If you should have any problems making this, please contact me through commenting on this post or through twitter. I highly suggest you watch the video. It literally draws out what you are doing here.



Now you should have a handmade bracelet of your own to show off to your friends and family!





What do you think of the finished product? Will you try to make your own? Would you buy a bracelet like this if it was available for purchase?

Monday, December 3, 2012

CLOSED **BlueBirdBride $20 Gift Card Giveaway**





THIS GIVE AWAY IS NOW CLOSED!

AND THE WINNER IS....



CONGRATULATIONS!




I have collaborated with Diane over at BlueBirdBride to host this nifty giveaway just in time for the Holidays.

The winner will receive a $20 gift card redeemable at the BlueBirdBride Etsy Shop! 

There are items selling everyday for $10 and under! If you're looking for a great gift for your mother, sisters, friends, etc, than you want to join this giveaway. 

If you're not familiar with this shop then just click her banner above to check it out. I have a necklace from this shop and can guarantee its of handmade, quality craftsmanship.

These are many of the items for sale on a daily basis:

bridal 5 bead.jpg

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Fill out the Rafflecopter form below for easy entry points!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sunday, November 11, 2012

Review: The Beauty Blender

I first tried the Beauty Blender in June 2012 from my July Glamour Birchbox. I took a few months to test this product out because I wanted to make certain that I could give an honest, detailed review.


What is a Beauty Blender?
The Beauty Blender is a makeup sponge applicator that averagely retails at $19.00 for one or two for $25


What makes the Beauty Blender Unique?
The Beauty Blender is designed to give a natural, flawless texture. It has been advertised to prevent that "cakey, packed on" foundation look and the blending process is to be much easier as the shape of the this applicator  can easy fit into all the nooks and crannies of one's face.

How Do I Use the Beauty Blender?
I will admit that when I first had this product in my hands, I had no idea what to do. There was no brochure, or reading materials of any sort in my Birchbox to explain the how to's of this sponge. Luckily, Birchbox sends out email during the month with tips, tricks, and how to's for each product. With enough research, review reading, and YouTube exploration, I was finally able to master the Beauty Blender.

Step 1: Soak your Beauty Blender with water, then squeeze out the excess water
Step 2: Using the Beauty Blender, pick up a small amount of product
Step 3: Apply the product to your face in a tapping like motion to distribute to product evenly
Step 4: Start blending evenly

 Tips:
*Use the pointed end on the curves of your nose, mouth, and other small areas like the eyes
*Always use wet, because using it dry will make it difficult to clean
*Always make sure you ring out the excess water or a streaky look may appear
*To wash, use a mild soap and let air dry completely before using again

My Opinion:
I love the Beauty Blender, however, I do not love the price. It's quite expensive, but what isn't anymore? I did notice all the benefits that Beauty Blender claims to promise: a flawless, natural, look. Using this product is so easy I'm sure a beginner can easily master it with little practice. 

I've never really used a sponge before because I do not wear foundation, but rather tinted moisturizer, and this applied it so wonderfully!I truly noticed a more dewy, less cakey look. 

Washing is simple as well. I did not purchase the Beauty Cleanser because the price is just out of my budget. I always use mild soap or baby shampoo. The use of my normal cleanser did not harm my Beauty Blender whatsoever,

I rate this product a 10/10 because it true to what it advertises, and the quality is superb. This may be a bit pricey  but you get what you pay for.

Will I Purchase this again? 
Definitely  I will, however, find some sort of a promotion, sale, or use my Birchbox Points for this. My budget is so tight, but the quality and finished look of my face make me believe I cannot live without this!


Have you tired the Beauty Blender or any product equivalent? 

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Deals for the Holidays

I am trying to to make my comeback from my *blogging hiatus* now that I have a routine going with school, and working two jobs. I have missed out on awesome opportunities, but I know there are more to come soon. I've been trying so many new products and have tons of reviews planned for the new year. I have re-subbed to IPSY (the former myglam) because their bags have improved tremendously. I still have a subscription to Birchbox so you will, of course, see my reviews on those. I still use Klout, Influenster, Sircle Samples, Is That Odd, and many other *freebie* programs out there that I plan to share. So stay tuned for all of those.

This post is specifically for the special savings that are taking over my email. These savings will not only help me save money during this spending frenzy, but you also if you decide to use them. I'm sure many people see the savings, but there are many who don't. Also, this can be kind of a reminder in case you forget that the current promotion is going on. With Christmas less than 2 months away, I'm sure we will all be looking for some way to save here and there.

Be sure to check these out ASAP!










Sunday, September 9, 2012

This or That Make-up Tag



Today Beauty Thrill had this cute tag that I couldn't resist reading and re-posting myself. I love letting others get to know me, and I like getting to know my fellow beauties as well!

Cosmetics

I Prefer....

Blush or Bronzer? I love using both, but blush would be my preference over bronzer, because on me, bronzer cannot be worn alone. I love a light pink or peach blush, but I love sculpted face as well. 

Lipgloss or Lipstick? Gloss but not too shimmery. 

Chapstick or Lip Butter? I don't think I've ever tried a lip butter so chapstick it is!

Matte or Sparkle Eye Shadow? Matte, but I love shimmer/sparkle shadow as well for a night out.

Eyeliner or Mascara? Mascara!! There would be no point of liner without mascara.

Gel, Liquid, Cream, or Pencil Eyeliner? Liquid. I wear it everyday!

Foundation or Concealer? Foundation, but I'm more of a tinted moisturizer kind of gal.

Liquid or Powder Foundation? Powder, I get oily!

Neutral or Statement Eyes? Statement, My eyes are main attention grabber!

Pressed or Loose Shadows? Pressed. I'm not experienced with loose. Loose intimidates me.

Waterproof or Non Water proof? Waterproof is too hard to remove.

Brushes, Sponges or Fingers? Brushes. No sponges, too streaky and difficult for me to apply! Fingers, sometimes.

Powder, Cream, or Liquid Highlighter? Powder, again I get oily.

I encourage everyone to do this post including these beauties:


Saturday, September 8, 2012

September MyGlam Hints

MyGlam has issued six hints for September's bag. Typically MyGlam will only issue 4 hints. This puts me on edge even more because I really am looking forward to this bag!

SNEAK PEEK #1 "...The bag will be filled with 5 colorful beauty products. Eyes, lips, nails & hair... We've got you covered!"
No Comment from MyGlam on this one, but I know I am going to LOVE this bag! It's black, sharp and perfect for the fall.


SEPTEMBER GLAM BAG SNEAK PEEK #2: September style is complete with a little sparkle.
More lip gloss! I've been wearing a lot of lip gloss lately, so yay for this one! I'm excited to see the color and brand! The first hint, gives me an idea!




SNEAK PEEK #3  Fall in love with a shadow that's always in fashion.
I cannot wait to get this shadow. Not sure what brand but I think this one has potential. Also, I'm happy there is a makeup product, most months in any beauty sub service contain makeup!


SNEAK PEEK #4: Say" So long!" to split ends in style.
Not sure what product this may be, but I have long hair and can always use something for split ends. Look sleek!


SNEAK PEEK #5: State-of-the-art materials to create sultry smudges.
In previous month's MyGlam included cosmetic brushes created specifically for MyGlam subscribers. I'm not sure if this another brush of that type, but I'm not concerned because I can always use another brush, especially a smudge kind!



SNEAK PEEK #6: It's a wrap with the last shade in this collection.

I hope I get this color because last month's electric orange was not my style.



Friday, September 7, 2012

Freebie Friday: Intro to Listia

If you've been keeping up with my blog, twitter, instagram, etc. than you know how much of a *freebie fanatic* I am. Who doesn't love a no strings attatched freebie? Sure, there are tons of websites and programs out there, where you can receive free products, but more than likely, there is some hidden catch for how you are truly going to receive that item totally free.

I am starting a new series on my blog called Freebie Friday. Freebie Friday will consist of the many free products I receive every so often, with mini reviews, and tips of the free trade. I will have links and other resources available for anyone interested in trying out some of the services. Some services may not be totally 100% free, like Birchbox, but may contain how I used the rewards prgrams to score these goodies. I will ocassionally highlight particular programs of interest for Freebie Friday.  I may also post current freebies up for grabs. I will not post this every Friday, because some weeks I don't receive a lot of products. Also, as many of you know I am busy girl with 2 jobs, and full time college classes.

So for my first Freebie Friday post, I will be introducing Listia.


Listia is a free market place where you can earn virtual currency (credits) to earn free new or used products. Similar to Ebay, you can bid on auctions, and list auctions for other users to bid on. Listing auctions is the best way to earn credits. Auctions can be set any where from 3-10 days, and people bid away. Once an autction has ended, the user ships out the package and within 10 days credits are transferred to the Listian's account. When an auction is listed, the seller determines whether he/she will pay shipping or if the buyer will.

With Listia, each user has XP (experience) points to earn.  XP is basically the scoring system for your user level. XP can be earned by logging in, listing auctions, giving feedback. Badges are also earned when you complete these tasks. Although you do not receive credit for badges or XP, it's a great set up because other users can see that you are an experienced, trustable seller.

There are other ways to earn credits such as, completing surveys, referring friends or sharing auctions. As stated earlier, Listing auctions is the best way to earn credits! I currently have 7,000 + credits and am continuing to save them for something great that comes along.

TIPS:

Adding Free Shipping bears better winning auctions! The first auction I listed did not offer free shipping. That item's highest bid was 605 credits. Later, I listed another item exaclty like it and the highest bid for that was well over 2,000 credits. Shipping cost me less than $3.00 and I'm okay with that because I've won some some pretty awesome items.

Always leave feedback!! This will prompt users to leave feedback for you, which is helpful to both of you because other users will see that both parties are reliable.

Read the entire item and description and ask questions about auctions that you are bidding on. If you know you do not want to pay shipping for items, then make sure you read the details to know if that seller is paying shipping or not. If not, you may be unsatisfied with the auction results and you may lose credits doing so.

Use the "Watchlist" feature to stay on top of your game. Listia will email you notifications that auctions in your watchlist are ending soon. I've won many auctions using this and the iPhone App.

Refer friends! Referring friends gives you 500 Credits!! How easy is that?

So now that you know what Listia is, check out some of my lucky winnings!


   
  

Pictures from right to left: Pur Minerals All Over Bronzing Glow Powder, Susan Bates Plastic Crochet Hooks, Crochet Bag Pattern, Flower Headband Crochet Pattern.
If you have any questions feel free to ask. You can find me on Listia by clicking HERE!

Monday, August 27, 2012

August 2012 Birchbox

Birchbox's theme this month is Beauty School. Birchbox focused on creating a Beauty School Supply Kit, filled with beauty essentials. Birchbox partnered with Pencils of Promise, an organization that works to provide all children with quality education. Birchbox is donating 15% of all proceeds in the month of August to Pencils of Promise to help build a new school.
This Month's Box
The info cards this month are so adorable and came extra special with Beauty School tips that anyone can use. Instead of a normal card, there was a fold out pamphlet with great tips that I often forget and my "Supply Kit" was listed on the back. (Click to Enlarge)








Beauty Fixation Cuticle Conditioner $25 - These swabs are made to soften your cuticles. I never pay attention to my cuticles besides pushing them up so I think this item came at the perfect time, since I just had my acrylics removed.

Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy La Fleur $70 - I love the original Viva La Juicy so I had extra high hoopes for this scent, and yes my expectations were met. This fragrance is so flowery and fruity and just pretty. I really want the full size!

Stila Stay all Day 10-in-1 HD Beauty Balm Foundation and Concealer $38-$44 -  I was psyched to see this item in my box but sadly when I saw the sample size and shade provided for me, I became disappointed. The samples are on sample card and can barely be enough for one use. The shade is "warm" which is so dark for me. I am an olive toned gal and this shade is for someone at least 10x darker than me.

WEI Pomegranate Buffing Beads 20 Packets for $20 - These buffing beads are designed to be mixed with a cleanser of your choice to lightly exfoliate the skin. My box came with two single use packets. I can't say I'm totally thrilled with the size and I'm still on the fence about this product. I understand this line is expensive but it is difficult to decide if you like something based off of two uses.

WEI Golden Root Purifying Mud Mask $42 for 8 masks at 8ml - This facial mask is made to dust away debris, dirt, and oils away from your face without leaving the skin dry and taut. Apparently the full size product comes with a reusable brush that is used to apply the mask onto your face with. This mud mask did leave my skin feeling so soft and supple, like porcelain but the price is just to high for this college girl.

Schick Hydro Silk Razor $9.99 - This razor is so amazing! I love Schick razors but the refills are so pricey. I love that this razor came with a $4.00 off coupon for the refills. Lately I've been using my bf's Schick Hydro for men razor and this is the perfect equivalent to that!


I rate this box a 7/10. I was not impressed with the sample sizes this month. I cringe at the sight of one time use samples because like i stated before, it is so difficult to try and products and form an opinion after one or two uses. This month was a mediocre follow up to last months.  







So what do think of my box? Any items you'd like to try? Link your Birchbox posts below so I can check them out!

Friday, August 24, 2012

TAG: Most Worn Things Summer 2012 Edition

Silvana at Glitz Glam Budget tagged a few blogging divas including myself to share our "Most Worn Things" this summer, so keep reading to my current favorites.


 
1. Most Worn Hair Product(s):
During Summer I give my a major rest from heat products and tools so the only product I can say I've worn most this summer is hairspray. I use it for my side swept bangs to keep them, well banging of course.
2. Most Worn Lipstick/Lipgloss:
Yes to Carrots Color Balm in Rosy Bloom. I bought this at target and use it more than once a day. I love the Yes To Brand and look forward to trying more product from them.

3. Most Worn Nail Polish:
I've had acrylics on my fingernails most of this summer, but as for polishing my toes, I've using th Sally Hansen HD Nail Color in Hi-Res 08

5. Most Worn Blush/Bronzer:
I've been wearing the Bella Bamba blush from Benefit. I love this blush just as much as I love the Bare Minerals Blush I've been consistently using for the last two year. Thank you again Abuilool! I won this from her giveaway about a month or two ago!

6. Most Worn Mascara:
 I absolutely love Hard Candy Mascasra and have used it almost everday this summer! It is affordable and long lsting. I lvoe how it make my eyes appear wider than usual.

7. Most Worn Foundation: 
I do not wear foundation, but I have been wearing my Pur Minerals 4-in-1 Tinted Moisturizer almost everyday, which is almost like a foundation. If you've read my review, than you know I am in love with this product! If you haven't read it, check it out here.
8. Most Worn Accessory:
I love this flower clip from Thirty One. Larger flower clips are available, but I prefer the smaller one for my hair. I usually wear in this updo at work, or a fishtail. This clip was only $3.00!

9. Most Worn Shirt/Top:
I love this Dolman style top. I've maybe worn this a bit too much, but is so flattering my curvy figure and it was $8.99 at  Ross.


10. Most Worn Shoes:
I have two pairs of these trendty sandals from Target and I plan to buy more. I believe they are $12.99 and I'm cesrtain they are sold every summer if you missed out on them. I've been wearing the white and brown equally. I love theses sandals because they are so easy to slip on and match just about every outfit.

11. Most Worn Handbag/Purse:
My Vera Bradley of course! This is not a winter bag, so I make sure to use it like crazy during spring and summer.

So what have you been wearing this summer?


Have you tried any of these products before? What are you wearing the most this summer? I encourage everyone and anyone to do this TAG, so be sure to leave your links in the comments! <3

To check out what Silvana has been wearing this summer click here.

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Pür Minerals 4-in-1 Mineral Tinted Moisturizer Review

Prior to using Pur Minerals 4-in-1 Tinted Moisturizer, I've never used a tinted moisturizer, or anything from Pur Minerals. I honestly haven't read much about them either. I didn't expect much coverage but boy was I worng. After testing this product through my April Birchbox, I purchased the full size product because I fell in love with it! I bought this via Birchbox and redeemed it with my points. I didn't even have to pay shipping because each month items ship free! Total Freebie!!

The Pur Mineral 4-in-1 Tinted Moisturizer is not like any other tinted moisturizer. This tinted moisturizer has added benefits that many others do not. Pur Minerlas 4-in-1 Tinted Moisturizer is not only a tinted moisturizer, but a primer, sheer foundation, and SPF 20 all packed into 1.

This tinted moisturizer comes in 4 shades: Light, Medium, Tan, & Dark. Birchbox only offers Light & Medium. I received Medium and it works perfect for my skin although I am decently tan. 

This product retails at $34 via the Birchbox and Pur Minerlas websites. That may sound like a lot, but this product lasts a long time.

The original sample from my Birchbox was a true "deluxe size" sample. It was very generous and I can honestly say I got over 15 uses form it. I love that because It's easier to test out a product based on more uses rather than a one time use sample.


Here you can see the sizes between the full size and sample size:

Swatches:


As you can see in the third picture, it blends in very well with my skin tone.

What I love about the Pür Minerals 4-in-1 Mineral Tinted Moisturizer:
This tinted moisturizer gives me the exact coverage I need. it's not too heavy but it truly "blurs" my blemishes and evens out my skin tone. When using this tinted moisturizer, I feel like my skin looks flawless and has a natural glow. This product also has a bit of shimmer to it which I think adds dimension to my face. This product is so easy to use; you simply smooth a small amount on clean skin and blend evenly. The primer works great  as my blush stays on all day. I've even used it as eyelid primer and make up stays put and lasts almost day. (Unless I'm at school and work all day. i work in a restaurant so that's expected)

After trying this I plan to buy the 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Foundation, because I did find I became a bit oily through the day, which is normal since I have combination-oily skin and am of Hispanic descent. I typically do not wear foundation, but this product and brand gives me the confidence to give it a try. 

What's great abut Pur Minerals website is that they list what colors go great with each shade of tinted moisturizer. if you're interested in that click here to read more on that and ingredients.

Pros:
  • Easy to use
  • Does not take long to apply
  • Actual product lasts a very long time
  • Coverage lasts a long time
  • Includes a long lasting primer
  • Includes a sheer foundation
  • Includes an SPF 20
  • Gives my skin a radiant, natural glow.
  • made from natural ingredients
  • Not tested on animals
  • Does not break my skin out
  • If I'm in a hurry I feel comfortable to wear this tinted moisturizer with mascara and leave the house.
Cons:
  • Price, but the product lasts so it's worth it
  • The shimmer can sometimes be a bit too much

All in all, I highly recommend this product. Although it is a bit pricey, it's not a total budget breaker as you can easily and quickly save up to buy it. I rate this product a 10/10. I've added this to my daily beauty regimen and won't ever look back.

Have you tried the Pür Minerals 4-in-1 Mineral Tinted Moisturizer or any other tinted moisturizer? What are your thoughts?

Birchbox Subscribers! What have you redeemed with your Birchbox points?


Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Ulta Urban Decay Smoked Palette Giveaway

This giveaway is so simple, so why not enter it?

Ulta is giving away 5 Smoked Palettes via Facebook. Visit the "Fabulous Fan Giveaway” tab HERE to enter. Simply "Like" Ulta and fill out the form and BOOM, you entered the giveaway!


The Smoked Palette looks stunning as usual for an Urban Decay Product. They know how to pick perfect names for their products! The name of this palette makes it so much more enticing.

****Enter ASAP because this giveaway is ending soon****


Monday, August 13, 2012

Always & Tampax Always Radiant Collection

Disclaimer: I received this product complimentary for testing purposes from Influenster.

My last two VoxBox's included the Always & Tampax Radiant Collection, which is fabulous since I have been using these brands since I hit puberty. Even if I'm tight on money I never switch to anything else because this brand is that affordable. I have of course tried other brands when I've received samples or had that emergency and had to borrow from a friend, but I always go back to Always and Tampax. Sounds almost like a LTR huh?

This kit is so adorable and included 1 pad, 1 panty-liner, 2 tampons, 2 coupons, and a wristlet to carry your products in in for discreet travels.







I have tried the Radiant Collection previous to receiving it my latest VoxBox's but that's okay because I can always use extra for my stash. I have used the coupons and was thrilled because my local Giant Eagle doubled them wihout even asking!

If you have not tried the Radiant Collection before, I highly reccomend it! These pads and tampons are super reliable.



Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Comfortable
  • Ease of use
  • "CleanGrip" plastic applicator
  • "LeakGuard" braid to stop leaks as they happen
  • Features the "FormFit" protection that expands to fit one's own unique shape



Cons:
There aren't any! I am not saying that because Influenster sent these to me for a review, because if you know anything about the program, than you know they want honest feedback. As stated before, I have been a fan of Always and Tampax since puberty.

If you would like more information on this collection or other Always/Tampax products be sure to click the links below to check out their websites.

Thursday, August 9, 2012

Latest Klout Perks

It has been quite a while since I've posted about a Klout Perk that I've received. I do post Alerts for current perks, however I rarely post about the perks I actually received mainly because I don't receive them as often as I'd like, and most are discount codes which I don't totally care for. Nonetheless, it's free and why complain?! If you've never heard of Klout, check it my out Klout 101 post.


AVEENO MAKEUP REMOVING WIPES
A few weeks ago I received the Aveeno Perk which I signed up for about a month ago. I received the Aveeno Active Naturals Ultra-Calming Makeup Removing Wipes. I must admit I am not so good with cleaning my face at night, so luckily these came to ease that problem. These wipes have a fresh, clean smell and they work perfect! It's been a long time since I've used a makeup removing wipe.


As you can see this package is the full size, including 25 wipes. I love that Klout's Perks are almost always full size!


ESSIE LUXEFFECTS STROKE OF BRILLIANCE
The other latest Klout Perk I received is the Essie Luxeffects Polish in "Stroke of Brilliance."
This polish a a gorgeous glittery blue that has nice hints of purple.



I have set of acrylics on with painted black tips, and I added this polish to them which works out because the black polish was starting  to fade and chip. I used two coats to get a lot of the glitter to show. And yes I need them filled in! I now have 2 polishes from the Luxeffects Collection, including "set of Stones" which came from my March Teen Vogue Birchbox.