February Empties: The Month of Never-Ending Perfumes

So I know this is late, but I've been busy with work and school. As I mentioned in another post, I knew February was gonna have a whole bunch of scents to test. The pros: I love perfume! The cons: some of the scents didn't give off a good impression, because they were ones you rub on your wrist.

Enough of that, let's get down to the empties from this month:

See what I mean by scent cards? Some of them had small bits of gauze with the scent, so I could get a better grasp of the scent. Anywhoo, here are the items, starting from the top-left, going down to the bottom right:

1. Tory Burch by Tory Burch:

Very nice scent, but it was kind hard to gauge how long it lasted on my skin, because it was literally a card where you peel back the plastic, and swipe your wrist. Kind of a floral/warm/woodsy scent, but definitely not oriental. I will need to try it in-store next time I'm buying stuff.

2. Gucci Guilty:

Ew. Too much pepper and oriental undertones. I tried washing it off my wrist and it wouldn't budge. I would definitely not even want someone to buy this for me, it smelt that bad. 

3. Love swept by Philosophy:

When I smelt it, I swear I smelt it somewhere else before. Then it hit me.... It smells like a Victoria's Secret fragrance called Sheer Love (which is FANTASTIC - I used to spray this on myself whenever I was at work). 

4. Roses de Chloé by Chloé:

I actually liked this one! It's not a rose overboard like Givenchy's Very Irrésistible, that's for sure. It had staying power, and when I actually sprayed it in-store, I still liked the scent. It's a bit strong, so I'm holding off buying it until I try the other Chloé scents. 

5. Daisy by Marc Jacobs:

I already own this in the biggest bottle I could get, as well as a rollerball. It's that good. It's been my signature scent for a few years now :) 

6. Nirvana White by Elizabeth and James:

It smelt nice on my wrist when I swiped it on the card, but when I tried it in-store it was a very confusing scent. Too bad, I was ready to order the rollerball and the regular size bottle. Oh well. I definitely like it better than its counterpart...

7. Nirvana Black by Elizabeth and James:

... Let's be real, this smelt like poo. It's the sandalwood that did it in. Made it too musky and on the verge of orient undertones. Like Gucci Guilty, I tried scrubbing it off my wrist and it wouldn't budge.

8. Candy by Prada:

I liked this one, but I don't think I would purchase it. I did find it had more lasting power than Candy L'eau (which was in my fragrance sampler), but the caramel smelled like it had vanilla in it... Did I mention I'm not a big fan of strong vanilla notes in my perfume? 

9. Lily by Stella McCartney:

I liked the scent, but it was very close to Lancôme's La Vie est belle that I knew I wouldn't be purchasing it. However, I made myself get throughout is sample! It does have a moderate-to-long staying power, and it's not too heavy. 

10. Benefit Some Kind of Gorgeous (medium shade, if I remember correctly):

This stuff is awesome. It's a pressed-yet spongey texture when you apply, but it goes on matte and spreads well, turning into a powder. It also blends well for even coverage. I have another on I'm using, as on Boxing Day I bought two of these in a set that also had the "That Gal" primer. The downside: although it works, it has a funky smell. Don't let that through you off, though, as the smell goes away once you apply it.

11. Dr. Andrew Weil for Origins Mega Bright skin tone correcting serum:

Megh. It was all right, but due to the sample size I found no difference in its suggested results. I feel these foil samples for skin should be bigger.

12. Benefit "That Gal" brightening face primer:

This stuff is awesome. A little goes a long way, and I found I didn't need to follow up with highlighter, as it's built in to this primer. The primer itself is like a light pink-coral, but it blends invisible once on. I did notice though that it doesn't cover pores as well as Too Faced Primed and Poreless - I have yet to see a primer de-throne it as my #1! 

13. Tarte Clean Slate Flawless 12 hour brightening primer:

Unlike "That Gal," this one is yellow in hue, but goes on invisible. It also smells a bit like lemons. This one didn't really brighten, but I did find it covered pores a little better than "That Gal." Not enough though to de-throne Primed and Poreless, that's for sure!

All in all, this was a pretty good month to get through some samples. I'm hoping in March to get through some more foundation and primer, as well as some fragrances and some body lotions. I'm very close to finishing my honeydew EOS lip balm, but it's almost like a bottomless pit of good-for-your-lips goodness.

If you would like to join in on my empties challenge, click here to see how I structured it. Let me know below what's your take on the products I reviewd above, or if you have suggestions for things I should try next :)

Wantable February Accessories Box 2014 - PICTURES & INVITE LINK INCLUDED

My Wantable February box arrived a few days before Valentine's Day! (I thought I had already published this, but alas, it was sitting I. My draft section... #fail) I have ordered 3 previously, and all three times they were amazing products I would never pick out for myself. Although Wantable boxes are a bit on the pricey side, I like to treat myself every once in a while.

What's great about wantable is for either of it's three boxes, you take an in-depth questionnaire to highlight what products you love, like, or dislike. With Valentine's Day coming up, this is a great option for gifting, as you can purchase a one-time box as well, for $40 (or you can be like me, and buy it as a V-Day gift for yourself!).

Anyway, onto the box!

Wantable recently changed their shipping boxes to this sleek black colour. I personally don't mind change, as it keeps things fresh :)

When I opened the box, I found this cute little greeting on top of my order confirmation sheet. Here's what it says on the back:

A quote from Sophia Loren! (She is seriously awesome - just like Wantable!)

Next, I was surprised to see my accessories wrapped so beautifully in these felt pouches, which Wantable puts in between two foam protectors. Definitely a step up from plastic, as it can protect pieces better!

First product:

This is called the Belloza necklace, and boy is it BEAU-tiful! I never though chains and crystals would look so elegant together. I'm wearing it right now as I write this review, as it's so pretty and shiny.

Belloza necklace retail value: $28.00 USD

Next product: 

Wantable calls this the Hoshi ring, and it's a size 6 (I've been told more than once I have very skinny fingers lol). I actually quite like it, and it does fit in with Valentine's Day. The band is a good size; not too chunky, but not on the verge of snapping. Again, it's very shiny. As you can see, I love shiny - Wantable, how did you know? XD 

Hoshi ring retail value: $12.00 USD

Finally, my last product I knew I was getting was another necklace, as when I asked them on Facebook what size chain it was, they said if I emailed CS they would be more than happy to try to get it into my box. If you've never dealt with Wantable CS, then you don't know that Amanda and the whole CS team are legit superstars. Seriously, they are BONAFIED superstars. They've gone above and beyond the call of duty for me more than once, as they have with many many MANY other subscribers .

Here it is!

This is the Kaelee necklace, and it screams spring. I'm not usually into bolder necklaces, but I'm branching out so I have more statement pieces to make my outfits pop. I saw this beaut on Wantable's Pinterest accessories board, and it was love at first sight. As I mentioned above, Amanda and the Wantable team were kind enough to get it into my box. I never outright asked, but they knew I liked it. 

It's companies like these that I like to build a friendship with, as I know they treat their customers with care and respect, not just another consumer.  

Kaelee necklace retail value: $34.00 USD

In total I payed around $55 CD. However, Wanatble recently gave subscribers a $3 credit towards their next boxes, as they increased international shipping by $1 USD.

Compared to what I payed, my total box value came out to $74.00 USD (approx $81.46 CD).

All in all, I am seriously content and happy as a clam with this box. Each item I received it truly unique and truly wearable pieces. :)

If you are thinking of joining Wantable, use my invite link below! You can subscribe to either their makeup box, accessories box, their intimates box, or all three! Remember, you can skip a box or cancel any time, and Wantable has a satisfaction guarantee. :)

L'Abeille des parfums' Wantable Invite Link 

NOTE: This review was of my own accord and personal interest. In no way was I asked to review on behalf of Wantable. All the images and comments are my personal accounts.

January Empties: Another one bites the dust

This month has been such a wonderful whirlwind! Things are shaping up for a great year, and I'm excited for spring! (I can't stand all this snow - as I write this, my area of the Great White North is being dumped with more snow)

This month also saw another end to another two full-sized products. Nothing feels better than being able to get through a whole bunch of things (February is shaping up to be full of fragrance samples, thanks to Sephora's fragrance event promo ). 

Here's what I got through, with mini reviews of each product to follow:

1. Güd Natural Body Lotion in Floral Cherrynova: This lotion is amazing. It instantly moisturizer my dry hands. I recently did a more in-depth review , so I'm not gonna get too much into a review on this.

2. Murad Hydro Dynamic Ultimate Moisture for eyes: I finished another of these last month, and it is pretty true to its name. I found my eyes also felt the skin around my eyes more firmer. A little truly goes a long way.

3. Ole Henriksen oil-free, brightening moisturizer: I found this was a pretty good product, but I felt I really did have to put it evenly over my face. 

4. Boscia Recharging Night Moisture: This stuff is absolutely amazing. I got this in an Ipsy bag (can't remember which one) and I've been using it on/off since. I found my skin instantly felt refreshed and smoother the morning after, as well as the following day. I would definitely buy this again.

5. Madly Kenzo Eau de Toilette: This is a lovely perfume. I got it during the perfume launch at Sephora (it so happened the day I went to the store, they were launching). I would consider buying this, as it does have lasting power, but I think my Lancôme La Vie est belle tops all.

6. Ole Henriksen Perfect Truth CC Crème: This CC Crème is absolutely awesome. I found it spread and covered very well - literally 2 pumps and I had enough for my whole face. I also highly recommend using a primer and concealer, before applying this, as it will ensure perfect coverage. I would love to buy this; however, the full-sized bottle is a little out of my price range for now. 

7. Hampton Sun SPF 15 Super Hydrating Face Cream: I'm not one to put sunscreen or moisturizer right before I start my makeup regime, but I couldn't resist. This cream left my skin super smooth, even after I wiped off my makeup. It's also lightweight, and it doesn't have an oily feel.

8. Makeup Fprever HD High Definition Primer in #0: I was referred to this primer, after I had my first VIB makeover the beginning of January. I found it did its job, but it didn't cover my pores as well as I hoped (even though during my makeover, my skin looked flawless). In all honesty I would not repurchase this, considering Too Faced Primed and Poreless stole my heart (same with Benefit's That Gal, which I will be reviewing soon). 

All in all, this was a pretty good clean up. As I alluded, February is shaping up to be a month of more empties! 

Thinking of joining my monthly makeup empty challenge? Click to here to read more! 

Sephora Beauty Insiders: "Scents of Desire" Triple Points on fragrance event, February 5-14, 2014

In my Sephora package tonight, I was given not only my samples (I was blessed to receive a 4th sample - hooray for unexpected blessings, no matter how small!), but this nifty envelope filled with 7 postcards that had fragrance samples on them:

This looks quite nifty. As the main promo card explains, these are Sephora's "most coveted perfumes."

So, it looks like the next 3x the points event ties in with Valentine's Day, as what better way to gift your significant other with perfume or cologne. 

I've gotta hand it to Sephora, this is actually pretty nifty marketing. The postcards with the perfume samples (not pictured, as they are on the back with their corresponding pictures) can actually BE MAILED to people, via that good ol' snail mail! 

I'm considering it, but I may just end up trying them out for myself... My mom and sister don't wear much perfume, plus I believe perfume is a personal thing; one does not simply give people perfume, unless they know that person's preference, or what scent combinations work with their body chemistry (like how I slipped in the Baramir meme? It's one of my favourite memes :D).

If you're thinking of making a fragrance purchase during the month of February, hold off until this promo goes on, as you'll get more points. If you haven't already noticed, this is for Beauty Insiders, so in order to get the points, just sign up for Sephora's BI program on-line or in-store!

** Deal Alert: bareminerals Beauty In Bloom 7-Piece Fresh-Faced Makeup Collection **

This evening my Sephora order arrived! 

Not only was I expecting my UD makeup setting spray (which I will review sometime soon), but my 2 deluxe samples from their promo code VICESWAP, and my Bareminerals "Beauty in Bloom" kit as well!

I haven't had time to actually wear anything yet, but it will in the near future. I did, however, make swatches!

Here's the outside of the box:

Here's the inside. As you can see, there's a small mirro glued in as well. The box is sturdy, too - perfect if you wanna store some small things.

The kit also comes with a handy "Get the Look" card, which I thought was kinda neat:

Here's the swatch of the colours. 

From top (Read: nearer to my upper arm) to bottom (Read: towards my wrist):

1. Marvelous Moxie lipgloss in Spark Plug (dusty pink pearl)

2. Marvelous Moxie lipstick in Speak Your Mind (blushing pink)

3. bareminerals Ready Eyeshadow 2.0 in Passion (glimmering plum)

4. bareminerals Ready Eyeshadow 2.0 in Muse (pink frost)

5. bareminerals Eyecolor in Nude Beach (light warm sand)

6. All-over face color in Rose Radiance (fresh rosy glow) - I know you can nearly see it, but it's in-between the shimmery colour and the pink nearest to my wrist

7. bareminerals Ready blush in The One (nude pink)

Overall, I'm quite content. When I get a chance, I'll try them all out to see how the result went, and I'll do an updated review :) 

This kit can be purchased at Sephora, both on-line and in-stores at a price of C$45 (USD$36). This would make for a wonderful birthday or Valentine's Day gift, or as a treat for yourself. :) 

Clean & Clear Morning Burst Brightening Facial Cleanser

I purchased this product back during the summer, and I've never had a chance to properly talk about it until now.

This cleanser is packed with bursting micro beads, and has caffeine to help perk up your skin (which is great for early mornings!). I use this with a small rubber facial scrub, as I find it helps cover my face and pores better to insure every inch of my face gets cleaned. 

What I like about this product is it does make your face feel more energized and fresh, without feeling greasy. At the same time, I highly suggest following up with a moisture cream or mask, as I found my face felt dry after a few hours (but it still smelt great!).

You can find this product at major drugstores chains, as well as Wal Mart, Target, and other carriers. 

Empties Challenge - Who's With Me?

Nothing is more exciting than scoring a good deal on a makeup set, or getting a new lipstick. However, if you're like me, you've got a lot of samples sitting in your drawer, as well as un-opened products from value and gift sets.

I propose a challenge! Like my December empties from 2013 , I have been going through all my makeup and samples. I look to see which ones I can get through by the end of the month - it doesn't matter if the product is new, half-used, gently used... the point is to clear out a bunch of little samples and bottles.





Now, I know a lot of people feel this may be daunting, so I'm gonna say products can roll over to the next month, if it's still not finished. HITTING THE PAN DOES NOT COUNT AS FINISHED! What I found helps is limiting myself to one of every product. That way, if I focus on just those products, I can get through them faster.

Here are the rules:

- 1 mascara
- 1 primer
- 1 foundation
- 1 concealer
- 1 eyeshadow palette
- 1 eyeshadow primer
- 1 lip balm
- 2 lip gloss - MUST be different shades
- 1 lip stick
- 1 lip primer
- 1 blush
- 1 face lotion
- 1 body lotion
- 1 perfume
* ALL products can either be full-sized, sample, or deluxe size. The objective of the challenge is to commit to only the products above (emergency cases where a different product must be needed is fine, such as a different eyeshadow palette for an evening look)
* If you finish a product before the end of the month, congrats! Start a new product of the same category (ex. empty mascara = start new one)
* If products are not done by the end of the month, they MUST roll-over as the product for the next month. I don't believe in throwing out half-finished products.
* If you are running out of products from the list, you can buy new ones, but only if you're almost done that specific product. DO NOT start the new one, however, UNTIL you finish the nearly-empty one!
* If you see any products missing from this list you would like to include, by all means go ahead. I didn't specify skin cleansing products, as everyone has a set regime and may need a different combo of products. If you do, STICK TO THOSE ONES!

I've already been doing this for January, but if anyone would like to join me in this challenge for February, please comment below. Re-post these rules on your blog, citing the link to this entry :)

I feel this will be a great way for us to get through everything, without feeling pressured to finish a set number of products per month. This way, if one month you finish 2, the next month you may finish 5... everyone will feel accomplished!