Monday, December 30, 2013

Wavelength French Manicure


I'm not one for traditional French manicures. I prefer something colorful, funky, and fun, or, at the very least, out of the ordinary. This is a French manicure that I would wear, and it can be customized with your favorite colors, too! The asymmetrical waves keep things interesting...you can even match them up from nail to nail like I did and create one long wave-ribbon.
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Saturday, December 28, 2013

Watercolored Roses and a Textured Accent


I have been struggling a little with inspiration lately, as you may have noticed from my lack of posts! I'll discuss this more at the end of the post if you're interested, but for now let's talk about this nail art. What's an uninspired gal to do? Florals, of course! Nothing super groundbreaking here, but I am happy with the way they came out and I love the textured accent nail. Read on for more details about how I did this manicure.
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Monday, December 23, 2013

Work/Play/Polish's Blogging for a Cause


Leslie from Work/Play/Polish is currently hosting a series of guest posters to benefit the charity Polished Girlz. For each guest poster that accepted, she has pledged to donate $10 to the organization, which hosts nail art parties for kids that are frequently hospitalized or terminally ill. They also tout the benefits of frequent hand washing to reduce infection and hospitalization. I know I'm all for using nail art to spread love and cheer to kids that need it!

I was invited to participate in her guest post series and of course I said yes! Please visit Work/Play/Polish for more photos, details, and chatter about this nail art. Leslie also wrote an introductory post featuring nail art by Alanna, the 13 year old founder of the organization. Please stop by if you have a moment!

Happy Holidays!
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Wednesday, December 18, 2013

Snuggly Pink Christmas Sweater Stamping


Hello my dears! I'm sorry I haven't had a nail post to share with you in a while -- I have been frantically Christmas shopping, running around, working... you know how the season can be! Today I have a stamping manicure that I have been wearing for the past two days or so. I started out thinking, "Oh, stamping! That will be quick and easy and fun!" but soon remembered that I am not good at stamping. Combine a lack of stamping skill with perfectionism and you are in for a long evening of re-dos!
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Sunday, December 15, 2013

The Lipstick League – Week of 12-9-13

For the month of December, we’re super-sizing The Lipstick League and giving you double the fun from some members!

Question of the Week: What are some beauty products that you’d be delighted to receive as gifts this holiday season?
Sarah's Answer: I've been eyeing the Formula X for Sephora polishes. There are so many beauties! My favorite groups are the Xplosives glitter topcoats and the neon Electrics.

Beauty Junkies Unite - See what Amber thought were hits, and those that were misses in the new MAC RiRi Hearts MAC holiday collection!

Chalkboard Nails - There’s no better way to celebrate Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2014 than with some freehand radiant orchid nail art!
Chalkboard Nails - Get party perfect nails with five easy black and gold nail art ideas. Feeling bold? Try combining a few together!

Clumps of Mascara - Been itchin’ to try new nail polishes but the stores don’t seem to have anything up your alley? Support an indie nail polish brand!
Clumps of Mascara - So not beauty-related but c’mon...who doesn’t like pictures of Baby Clumps?

Gouldylox Reviews - Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Here's a list that takes care of everyone!
Gouldylox Reviews - Beauty products commonly use these tricks to play on your self-esteem. Don't let them trick you!

Lipglossiping - checks out the behind-the-scenes video featuring the much-awaited relaunch of Shu Uemura’s lipstick range.

My Beauty Bunny - We've got the scoop on Radical Skin Care This powerful (and effective!) anti-aging line is the buzz brand in Hollywood - find out why.
My Beauty Bunny - We're ALWAYS raving about DermOrganic's amazing hair care products. Want to try them yourself? Here's your chance to win two full size products!

Nouveau Cheap - Are the new Almay Shadow Softies cream shadows? Mousse shadows? Answer: neither.
Nouveau Cheap - Wet n Wild is discontinuing some products in 2014. Come see if your favorites made the cut.

Pink Sith - shares with you a famous holiday poem. "Twas the poem about the holidays that barely rhymed, but I show you gifts from ULTA Beauty so I know you won't mind."
Pink Sith - has a great gift idea for the men in your life. The Billy Jealousy Shave3Some is Mr. Sith approved!

Prime Beauty - attends so many holiday parties (haha) she needs flawless skin for all the pictures she'll be starring in (haha again). Renee Rouleau's Triple Berry Smoothing Peel does the trick and it's on sale!
Prime Beauty - explores the Indie Brand SENNA Cosmetics and likes what she finds!

Phyrra - I've launched my very own cruelty free, paraben free, vegan hair masque called Pretty Little Elixir! It's a must have for dyed or heat styled hair!
Phyrra - Love Chocolate? See if this sweet treat from Too Faced is for you! It's the Too Faced Chocolate Bar Eye Palette.

we heart this - took a field trip to 100% Pure in West Hollywood, a long time favorite of many of our team members. It was a sniff and scrub-a-polloza!
we heart this - bareMinerals Degrees of Dazzling is all kinds of beautiful. Check out the looks we posted and see if you agree...
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Thursday, December 12, 2013

12 Days of Giveaways Day 12: OPI Mariah Carey Holiday Collection (CLOSED)


It's the final day of the 12 Days of Giveaways - I hope you all have enjoyed them! I know I have. I've already drawn winners for some of the earlier days, and for those of you that are curious, winners are emailed, announced via the giveaway widget, and posted on the CN Facebook page.

Of course I had to go out strong, so for the 12th day, one lucky US reader will win the entire 18 piece OPI Mariah Carey Holiday Collection, including all six Liquid Sand shades. OPI is a brand that is near and dear to my heart, and this is a great winter collection. There has to be something magical in these Sands that makes them extra gorgeous. Best of luck to all of you that are able to enter!
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Wednesday, December 11, 2013

12 Days of Giveaways Day 11: China Glaze Happy HoliGlaze Collection (CLOSED)


We are nearing the end of the 12 Days of Giveaways! Can you believe it? It seems like it has just flown past! I've got my two favorite brands lined up for the last two days, and up first is China Glaze. Their Happy HoliGlaze collection is turning the traditional holiday collection upside down with berry colored glitters, blues, purples, and metallics galore. Needless to say, these can be worn to great effect all year round! Five lucky US readers will get to take home the entire collection.
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Tuesday, December 10, 2013

12 Days of Giveaways Day 10: Sonoma Nail Art Polish Bundles (CLOSED)



Sonoma Nail Art is an indie brand run by my dear friend Michelle. Some of you may or may not know this, but I am actually her official brand swatcher! She has been a longtime supporter of me and this blog, and I am thrilled to be including Sonoma Nail Art in my 12 Days of Giveaways.

Today's giveaway will have two winners. The first winner drawn will have their choice of prize.
PRIZE ONE: The entire Handcar Regatta Collection (7 polishes, shown on the left)! This includes Steampunk, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Parasol, Airship, Clockwork, Raygun, and Aether.
PRIZE TWO: Sonoma Nail Art favorites pack (4 polishes, shown on the right)! This includes My Three Glitters (with special label inspired by my love of black and white glitters), Wine Country Wedding, Go to Napa for Auto Parts, and Sonoma Sunset.
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Monday, December 9, 2013

12 Days of Giveaways Day 09: GlitterDaze Neon Glitter 3-Pack (CLOSED)


There are not many things more fun in life than neon glitter. Well, maybe that's a stretch, but I can certainly say that neon glitter is one of my favorite nail polish styles. There's something so fantastic about the semi-transparent, bright and bold slices of glitter! The GlitterDaze ColorPOP Collection has a wide range of neon glitter polishes, and for today's giveaway you can enter to win a 3-pack of my favorite polishes from the set. Three lucky readers will get to take home this fundle (fun + bundle)!
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Pantone Color of the Year 2014: Radiant Orchid Nail Art


The Pantone color of the year for 2014 has been announced: meet Radiant Orchid! Pantone’s executive director describes the shade as “an enchanting harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones.” I think radiant orchid is a beautiful shade and I did my best to represent it in this freehand orchid nail art.
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Glam Polish Assortment - Swatch and Review


It takes a lot for an indie brand to catch my eye these days in the vast sea of nail polish, but the Australian brand Glam Polish really sparked my interest. I've seen a lot of beautiful swatches of Glam Polishes lately and was very excited to give six of them a try for myself. Not only do these polishes have great formulas, they are adorable and fun color combinations! They are a breath of fresh air amidst the heaviness of the current winter collections.
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Sunday, December 8, 2013

12 Days of Giveaways Day 08: Hand Care Favorites + piCture pOlish Siren Song (CLOSED)


I'm often asked what I do to care for my hands and nails. A huge part of the process is finding the right products! In today's giveaway, two of you will get to try out my preferred hand care routine (plus a gorgeous nail polish generously donated by Rebecca Likes Nails). This package includes: piCture pOlish Siren Song by Rebecca Likes Nails, CND Almond Soothing Creme, Duri Rejuvacote, Burt's Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Cream, and a pair of cotton gloves.
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The Lipstick League – Week of 12-2-13

For the month of December, we’re super-sizing The Lipstick League and giving you double the fun from each member!

Question of the Week: What’s your go-to body lotion for this time of year?
Sarah's Answer: I'm a horrible beauty blogger and I don't really use body lotion, although I know that I definitely should. I did recently pick up the St. Ives Lotion Spray but am having trouble using it with any sort of consistency. Whoooops...

we heart this - just turned four, but is giving YOU a present: a European holy grail giveaway - Lancome Erika F. eye shadow and Max Factor Fantasy Fire nail polish!
we heart this - What trumps RiRi Woo? Pleasure Bomb! Check out the RiRi hearts MAC Holiday collection and see if you agree.

Beauty Junkies Unite - Here's a chance to win all 20 shades inside the new bareMinerals 'Degrees of Dazzling' eyeshadow collection!
Beauty Junkies Unite - Amber shares several holiday gift ideas for the ultimate in affordable luxury.

Chalkboard Nails - Enter to win the Cirque Alchemy Collection and lots more in Chalkboard Nails’ 12 Days of Giveaways!
Chalkboard Nails - Have you tried any Formula X for Sephora nail polishes yet? Don’t miss this gorgeous cobalt blue glitter gradient!

Clumps of Mascara - I’m not a girl with a lot of desires. Or so I thought. My holiday wishlist has now doubled in size. Eek!
Clumps of Mascara - Girls, listen...my skin has been screaming for something more than just a basic scrub. M.Steves has saved the day with their glorious Reviving Exfoliator!

EauMG - has the ultimate holiday gift guide for vintage beauties! Stock the boudoir with red lipstick, powder puffs and fancy perfume atomizers! A must read for true glamour girls.
EauMG - step foot into a Parisian artist’s studio with this decadent, boozy, fruity patchouli perfume, Nez a Nez Atelier d’Artiste.

Gouldylox Reviews - Can a brush that looks like a toothbrush give you the makeup skills of a pro? Find out!
Gouldylox Reviews - The hair authority on DIY braids, buns and twists, Hair Romance, has a new book that you're going to need.

My Beauty Bunny - Just what is the deal with parabens and why is everyone so afraid of them? The answer may surprise you! Are the Parabens in Our Beauty Products Safe?
My Beauty Bunny - Check out Jen's new do by West Hollywood celeb hair stylist Marco Pelusi! Purchase his amazing hair care products during his Holiday Deal and receive a FREE travel sized Color Hydrate Conditioner.

Nouveau Cheap - Wet n Wild has a brand new 8-pan eyeshadow palette for 2014. Come take a look at some swatches!
Nouveau Cheap - The semi-annual CVS Beauty Clearance Sale is now underway. I’ve got a list of things you can expect to see reduced to 50-75% off. Stocking stuffers, anyone?

Prime Beauty - has put together her list of Top 10 Beauty Stocking Stuffers. Some may surprise you!
Prime Beauty - has several fantastic favorite sets from the tarte Gift of Giving Holiday 2013 Collection and you can win two of them so hurry and enter!

Phyrra - shares her Best Ways to Apply Loose Eyeshadow!
Phyrra - shares 6 Eye Makeup Mistakes You Don't Want to Make.

Guest Post of the Week, as chosen by we heart this - Sabrina from The Beauty Look Book shares the new Chanel nail colours and does what she always does so well; makes us want expensive things!
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Saturday, December 7, 2013

12 Days of Giveaways Day 07: Hex Nail Jewelry Charm Sets (CLOSED)


You guys know that I love my Hex Nail Jewelry charms, so of course I couldn't do a lineup of giveaways without asking the Hexy ladies to join in on the fun! For today's giveaway, five lucky winners will get a starter set of their very own, including a heart, horseshoe, star, infinity sign, diamond, and cherries.
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Party Perfect: Black and Gold Nail Art Ideas


I have been wearing a lot of black and gold manicures lately, and I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to highlight one of my favorite party pairings. Black and gold make a stunning combination: chic and glam, strong and bright, deep and dimensional. They're the perfect pair for all of your holiday soirees, and, great news, you can stretch them out through New Years!

I've got five looks to share with you today, plus I'll give you some quick breakdowns on how to achieve them yourself. Some are harder than others, but even beginner nail artists will find something to try here! Don't be shy... get your glam on!
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Friday, December 6, 2013

12 Days of Giveaways Day 06: Pretty and Polished Winter Collection (CLOSED)


Pretty & Polished was my first indie polish experience ever and is still incredibly close to my heart today. This winter, Chelsea and the rest of the P&P team have released a fun collection of 9 shades that are intended to be wearable all year long. One lucky reader will have the opportunity to win the entire winter collection, which includes glitter, thermal, holo, and shimmer polishes! Check out the full lineup via Pretty & Polished, and then read on to enter to win.
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Thursday, December 5, 2013

12 Days of Giveaways Day 05: MASH Nail Art Brush Sets (CLOSED)


Today's giveaway prize is one that is particularly close to my heart: the MASH Nail Art Brush kit! It has a ton of great brushes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and lengths, and I think that it's great for beginner nail artists and more experienced ladies alike. The medium length striper brush from this kit is one of my most used brushes, and the other brushes will let you experiment with a number of different techniques and styles.

Two lucky readers will win the entire 15 brush set, including the nifty organizational case. Read on to enter!
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Formula X for Sephora Cobalt Blue Glitter Gradient


Sephora recently launched a new line of nail polish and I was very eager to try them out. The new line is called Formula X for Sephora, and the entire range consists of over 200 new colors. I ended up picking out two during a recent order, Formula X Hyped and Formula X TNT, and used them together in this cobalt glitter gradient. Read on for my thoughts and more photos of this manicure!
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Wednesday, December 4, 2013

12 Days of Giveaways Day 04: Vivid Lacquer Stamping Bundle (CLOSED)


We're four days into the 12 Days of Giveaways...are you pumped yet? I know I am! In today's giveaway, three people will win a stamping bundle from Vivid Lacquer. Each bundle will include plates VL006, VL009, & VL010, plus your choice of stamper (choose between harder or softer rubber). I can personally attest to the high quality of these plates, and I love the unique and creative designs that Vivid Lacquer comes up with! That fake "OPI Spotted" style image from VL009 is particularly brilliant, I think.
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Tuesday, December 3, 2013

12 Days of Giveaways Day 03: Cirque Alchemy Collection


It's day three of the 12 Days of Giveaways and I have an opportunity for you to win some polishes from one of my favorite indie brands: Cirque! One lucky winner will get to enjoy the full ten piece Alchemy Collection, compliments of Cirque. Look at those gorgeous polishes! Such a wonderful blend of shimmers, glitters, holos, glass flecks... what more could a polish lover ask for?

I haven't swatched these just yet, but I DO have them in my possession and I can tell you they are divine. Look out for a swatch post soon, but for now just trust me -- you want these babies. Read on and enter to win!
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Limited Edition Holiday Trio from Lacquer Lust, Polished by KPT, and Serum No. 5


This holiday season, three indie polish makers have teamed up to create a limited edition holiday trio celebrating the three types of polishes that they each do best. Lacquer Lust has contributed a gorgeous holographic polish, Polished by KPT created a shimmering thermal, and Serum No. 5 came in strong with a glow in the dark! I think this is such a fun idea and a great collaboration.
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Happy Birthday to Me! - Aqua and Purple Gradient


Today is my 25th birthday! This is the third birthday that I've celebrated on this blog (check out 2012 and 2011). I only got around to changing my polish around 11pm, so I was just going to put on some blingy glitter or something, but then I got this craving for a gradient and couldn't resist. Of course, I had to put a black and white glitter on top because UM HELLO black and white glitter is one of my favorite things!
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Monday, December 2, 2013

12 Days of Giveaways Day 02: DIY Polish Jewelry Kits (CLOSED)


It's day two of the 12 Days of Giveaways and today I'm giving away the chance to experience some DIY fun! I enjoy making nail polish jewelry (and have been doing it for quite some time!). I wrote a tutorial for DIY polish jewelry waaay back in January 2012, and Rebecca Likes Nails published a great tutorial too.

One great thing about polish jewelry is that you can trap your favorite polishes and keep a bit of them forever. I made a pair of earrings with my beloved Clarins 230, so even if I finish the bottle, I'll still have those earrings! You can also get creative with layerings, or nail art, or just go crazy blingy and add sparkle to your outfits.
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Polish Me Silly Thermal Nail Polishes (Formerly Lush Lacquer)


Polish Me Silly may seem like a new indie brand, but I'll bet you are actually already familiar with them! They were formerly known as Lush Lacquer, but had to change their name for legal reasons. They're bouncing back with a new collection of colorful thermal polishes, and I've got nine of them to share with you today. Let me know which ones speak to you in the comments!

NOTE: All swatches show the "cold" state of the polish on my pointer and ring fingers, and the "warm" state of the polish on my middle and pinky fingers.
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Sunday, December 1, 2013

12 Days of Giveaways Day 01: The KBShimmer Blogger Collection (CLOSED)


When I was young, I always looked forward to Christmas because it meant PRESENTS! I mean, who doesn't love receiving gifts!? But as I grow older, I find that now I get more excited about giving gifts that I do about receiving them. There's something just so wonderful about finding the perfect present for someone, waiting for them to open it, and experiencing that moment with them. Maybe that's cheesy but it's true!

This year, I wanted to give some gifts to you, my beautiful readers. This blog is what it is today because of you guys, and I'm so thankful that you are around to keep me company in my nail art and nail polish addictions. In celebration of the season, I've teamed up with some of my favorite brands to put together a 12 Days of Giveaways for you (a la The Ellen Show - my fav). That's right - 12 days, 12 prizes, multiple winners, and lots of fun! 

Read on and enter to win!
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The Lipstick League – Week of 11-25-13

Question of the Week: What beauty product were you most thankful for this week?
Sarah's Answer: I'm most thankful for Milani Eyeshadow Primer this week. It kept my eyeshadow looking flawless and crease-free, even through cooking, baking, napping, and more!

Phyrra - gives you her Quick Cat Eye Makeup Tutorial Video, plus two bonus ways to get the perfect cat eye.

we heart this - reviews the latest advancement in wrinkle banishing; Perricone MD Blue Plasma Orbital. It's a peel that you can use around your eyes. Did you just hear angels sing? Because we did!

Beauty Junkies Unite - checks out the latest limited edition Urban Decay nail colors. They're stunning inside and out!

Chalkboard Nails - celebrates her dog’s birthday by doing nail art to match his squeaky toy. Are you a crazy dog person, too?

EauMG - shares a holiday gift guide for the chic hipster on your list!

My Beauty Bunny - It's time to get shopping! If you're looking for some fab present ideas, we've rounded up our faves for our annual Cruelty Free Gift Guide.

Nouveau Cheap - The new (and permanent, not limited edition!) Wet n Wild Coloricon 5-Pan Eyeshadow Palettes are now landing in stores. Come take a peek at these beauties!

Pink Sith - shows you some uses for Aquaphor Healing Ointment and is offering a Giveaway of Aquaphor and a $50 Visa Gift Card to boot!

Prime Beauty - already caved on one of her wishlist items for Santa--The Marc Jacobs Showstopper 7-pc. Holiday Collection. Boy is she glad she did!

Guest Post of the Week, as chosen by Phyrra - It's no secret that I adore Musings of a Muse and she is one of my blog inspirations. You need to see her review of the all new Too Faced Chocolate Bar Eye Palette!
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Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Chowder's 6th Birthday! Squeaky Toy Nail Art



Today is the most special day of every year: my dog Chowder's birthday! I love doing nail art to celebrate the occasion (last year I did some rainbow and confetti pawprints). This year I decided to copy the patterns from his new toy. He got it as a gift from Grandma, AKA my mom, and he really loves it despite the fact that it is about as big as he is. There are five squeakers in it! Can't beat that!
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Monday, November 25, 2013

KBShimmer Blogger Collection for Winter 2013 Swatch and Review


I'm extremely excited to share this collection with you today. KBShimmer has teamed up with 11 fantastic bloggers this winter to create a collaborative holiday collection, and I was lucky enough to be included! We all got to dream up our own holiday polish, including the name, and Christy brought them to life. I have to say I was really impressed with her understanding of my vision. She was able to get exactly what I was envisioning on basically the first try!
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Sunday, November 24, 2013

Girly and Gilded Mix & Match


A few weeks ago, my sister Kelsey stopped by to get her nails done. You may remember her (and her nails!) from the last time we did a nail photoshoot featuring leopard print and a faux fur lined jacket. We were talking about manicure ideas and decided to do a girly mix and match featuring pinks, golds, and black. I did some sketching while we hammered out the details, and once the manicure was done, we did a mini photo shoot!
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Tuesday, November 19, 2013

TUTORIAL: Distressed Nail Art (Punk/Grungy Effect)


Sometimes you want to do awesome nail art but you just don't have the time to sit down and do something complicated. Or maybe you're just starting out in the world of nail art and feel a little intimidated by all the techniques and tools (understandably!). Perhaps you just like edgy nail art that can be swiped on in seconds. No matter what your situation, I hope this nail art tutorial speaks to you.

You don't need any special tools, and imperfections are totally encouraged. Pick a few colors, grab a black polish, throw caution to the wind, and let's get started!
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Sunday, November 17, 2013

The Lipstick League – Week of 11-10-13

Question of the Week: If you could change one thing about your skin, what would it be?
Sarah's Answer: I actually rather like my skin! The only thing I might change is the size of my pores, but that's what face primer is for, right?

Pink Sith - luxuriates over her new Chanel Joues Contraste Blush in Accent from the 2013 Holiday Collection and asks if you “NEED” it too.

Prime Beauty - Prime Beauty has found The One. No, unfortunately it's not a man but BECCA's The One Perfecting Brush, can you believe it takes the place of 10 face brushes? Oh and if you know of any nice single older men...

Phyrra - shares the Best Ways to Survive Rosacea! Find out her favorite products and tips.

we heart this - wanna see some before and after pics of a makeup hoarder's storage salvation? (Brace yourself, it includes depotted shadows covered in dust!)

Beauty Junkies Unite - The review & swatches for the new China Glaze Happy HoliGlaze Collection are up, do you spy any shades you love?

Chalkboard Nails - The OPI Mariah Carey Holiday shades packs a punch of texture - you won’t want to miss these party perfect Liquid Sands!

Clumps of Mascara - reviews another Eyeko mascara. You’ve heard of that brand, haven’t you?

EauMG - shares her first holiday gift guide of the year! EauMG’s Holiday Gift Guide for Natural Beauties contains natural and organic products that will nourish the hair, skin, body and soul.

Gouldylox Reviews - Only have a few minutes to get ready? That doesn't mean you can't look flawless!

My Beauty Bunny - Pores a problem? We've got the details on How to Get Rid of Blackheads and a few products to recommend as well!

Nouveau Cheap - So, I finally found the Maybelline Limited Edition matte Color Tattoos. Were they worth the hunt?

Guest Post of the Week, as chosen by Pink Sith - Aprill from Glitter.Gloss.Garbage is a prolific writer. She has everything from nails to cosmetics to style and fragrance. In a recent article she shares some tips on how to prepare your skin for the winter, AND she is giving you a chance to win a $50 Visa Giftcard, plus some Aquaphor Healing Ointment! How fab is that?
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Thursday, November 14, 2013

OPI Mariah Carey Holiday 2013 Collection - Liquid Sands


Today, in chapter #857,209 of "Sarah Is Obsessed with Textured Polishes," I have swatches of the OPI Mariah Carey Holiday 2013 Liquid Sand shades. I'll be honest: I was initially unsure if I would like these ones. A few of these Sands have metallic finishes, and I've never really gotten excited about standard, nontextured metallic polish. But who am I kidding? We're talking about textured polish here. I ended up loving all of these!
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Sunday, November 10, 2013

The Lipstick League – Week of 11-4-13

Question of the Week: If you could have any job within the beauty industry, what would it be?
Sarah's Answer: I'd love any job working for a major nail polish brand, but I think it would be amazing to be on the OPI or China Glaze polish naming team. How much fun would that be? Plus you'd have all the inside scoop on upcoming collections and collaborations!

Nouveau Cheap - Can Dr. Rescue, the newest member of the Maybelline Baby Lips family, truly rescue my sad, chapped lips? Come find out.

Pink Sith - becomes an Ingredient Detective and tells you all about the chemical Triclosan and why she is avoiding it at all costs.

Prime Beauty - takes a look at the Laura Mercier Holiday 2013 Collection and likes what she sees!

we heart this - is feeling like a regular Picasso thanks to the MAKE UP FOR EVER Artisan Brush Collection.

Beauty Junkies Unite - Amber shares the review & swatches for the new OPI Mariah Carey holiday collection for 2013!

Chalkboard Nails - Are you a fan of Wicked? Deborah Lippmann is too, and created this set of three mini lacquers to celebrate the show’s 10th anniversary!

Clumps of Mascara - ran into an amaziiiing mascara. And it ain’t cheap but WHOA, it rocks.

EauMG - is obsessed with this limited edition shower gel by LUSH and wants you to be obsessed too.

Gouldylox Reviews - I love makeovers! You must see the before and afters on the lovely Chelle. She'll make a beautiful bride!

My Beauty Bunny - Lilly Brush has teamed up with a few of our favorite beauty bloggers for their biggest giveaway yet! Click on over and enter to win $250 and two Lilly Brushes!

Guest Post of the Week, as chosen by Nouveau Cheap - I love it when beauty bloggers show me new and exciting ways to use products I’ve owned forever. That happened this week when Ashley over at Pretty Pisces Beauty rocked a shade from the Wet n Wild Comfort Zone palette in a really beautiful way (I’m totally stealing this, Ashley).
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70s Crochet Chic - LCN Charade Nail Art


As I was unboxing the LCN Charade set, I was struck by how "70s chic" the colors looked together. The mustard yellow, the sage green, the burnt orange! I knew they absolutely must be used in nail art together. I ended up doing a pattern combination that made me think of that crochet blanket that you've probably seen at your grandma's house. You know which one I mean -- it's likely older than you are & probably isn't all that warm, but it's awesome looking and you know it's seen some stuff in its day.

Hopefully this manicure manages to capture the vintage feel while modernizing the style a bit.
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Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Pretty and Polished Whatta Mighty Good Mani Collection


Pretty and Polished is known for bold glitters (and more -- but this is how the brand started out ya know), and the Whatta Mighty Good Mani collection is no exception! This group of six polishes is not only super fun but also have amazing names inspired by hip hop and R&B songs.

Seriously, these names are awesome. They are nail related AND music related, and I really appreciate wordplay. Who doesn't?
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Monday, November 4, 2013

Vintage Glitter Floral with Silly Bee's Chickadees


In today's post, I continue to play around with the technique of matching floral nail art to a glitter polish. I first tried this in my Candy Floral and loved the effect; I was happy to see a few of you guys trying it out as well! It's a great way to break up a nail art manicure while still keeping things cohesive. Today's glitter floral features Silly Bee's Chickadees Blueberry Smith Cocktail. Read on for further details about this nail art!
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Friday, November 1, 2013

Deborah Lippmann Limited Edition Wicked 10th Anniversary Collection Swatches


Celebrating the 10th anniversary of Broadway's Wicked, Deborah Lippmann has released a limited edition trio of shades inspired by the magic of Oz. Each polish in this trio of mini lacquers embodies a certain point of inspiration from the story, and each is named after a song from the show. I don't know about you guys, but I am a big fan of Wicked. My delightful boyfriend took one for the team and went with me to see it, bless his heart. Anyway, as a fan of the show, I was really excited to try out this set!
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Thursday, October 31, 2013

Over the Top Eyeball Nails - Halloween Nail Art



Happy Halloween, fine folks! I was a little stumped as to what I wanted to do on my nails for the actual holiday, but after browsing some of my older Halloween manicures I decided to take some nail art from 2011 and redo it. You may recall my Eyeball Pattern Nails Tutorial if you've been a longtime reader... this year I supercharged it!
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Wednesday, October 30, 2013

TUTORIAL: Black Widow Spider Textured Nail Art


Just in time for Halloween, I've got a quick black widow spider nail art tutorial to share with you today. This look is definitely "creepy chic," and while it's perfect for the holiday tomorrow, it would work as an edgy manicure year round as well.

You'll need:
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Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Girly Bits Fall Season Premiere Collection for Fall 2013


Girly Bits' collection for fall is inspired by one of my favorite things: television! Pam took inspiration from three of her favorite TV shows for her Fall Season Premiere Collection and created three gorgeous shades to represent each of them. Holo lovers, take note: six of them are holographic!
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Sunday, October 27, 2013

The Lipstick League – Week of 10-21-13

Question of the Week: If you weren’t blogging about beauty, what would you be blogging about?
Sarah's Answer: I would probably be one of those crazy pet ladies and write a blog about my dog Chowder, haha. In all seriousness though, I would love to blog about food. I love learning new recipes and cooking new things so I think I would really enjoy that.

My Beauty Bunny - No tricks and all treats from LUSH this year! We've got a look at their adorable and limited edition Creatures of the Baaaath! Halloween Bath Bombs.

Nouveau Cheap - My new Holy Grail top coat retails for a whopping $1.99 (but that’s not the only reason why I love it!).

Pink Sith - has found a product that prevents makeup meltdown! It’s the Ben Nye Final Seal Matte Sealer Spray!

Prime Beauty - Prime Beauty was constantly whining about her thin, fine hair until she discovered these 8 Products for BIG hair!

Phyrra - bring joy this Holiday with the Too Faced Be Merry & Bright Set!

we heart this - report from the Halloween party of the year; the MAC Rick Baker Monster Mash (and show swatches of the collection.)

Beauty Junkies Unite - Amber reviews one of the best palettes for holiday 2013, Too Faced's "A Few of my Favorite Things". Trust me, take a look!

Chalkboard Nails - Would you ever rock leopard print eye makeup? I’ve got two stylized eye looks with matching nail art (of course!).

Clumps of Mascara - Clinique has been releasing some pretty awesome products. I ran into 5 products that I am just totally in love with.

EauMG - completes your Halloween costume with these fragrance suggestions for popular women’s and men’s costumes.

Gouldylox Reviews - This powder foundation made a believer out of me.
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Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Lancome Artliner 24H Stylized Eye and Nail Looks

It was only a matter of time that my love for nail polish grew into a love for other types of makeup, and lately I have been practicing my eye looks. I am a fan of a bright, bold eye, and love using liquid liner as a bold finishing touch. Recently, I posted an eye of the day to my Instagram account, and someone suggested that I enter Lancome's #24HinParis liquid liner contest. I thought, "Why not?" and threw my photo into the ring. To my surprise, I was chosen as one of the finalists!

For the next round of the contest, I was sent a selection of Lancome Artliner 24H liners and was asked to make some eye looks for selection for the contest. Being a newbie to the world of eye makeup, I was pretty nervous! A friend suggested that I just treat the project like nail art, and suddenly it clicked. Read on for details on the two looks I created, plus the matching nail art.

(Just click the heart -- no need to give your email address or anything!)
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Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Serum No. 5 Pink Lantern Swatch and Review



Serum No. 5 is a brand well known for amazing glow in the dark polishes, and this limited edition stunner is no exception. Pink Lantern is a special release for October, and with just over a week left in the month, there's no time to hesitate if it tickles your fancy.
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Sunday, October 20, 2013

The Lipstick League – Week of 10-14-13

Question of the Week:  What are your favorite perfumes to wear in the fall?
Sarah's Answer: I have been completely obsessed with Prada Candy lately. It's sexy and warm, without being too intense or overwhelming. Too bad I only have a tiny sample bottle of it!

Gouldylox Reviews - Get great hair the lazy way. Sleep on it!

My Beauty Bunny - It's NEVER too early for holiday collections! Check out three of Too Faced's Holiday Sets (they're ah-mazing) and add them to the top of your gift list.

Nouveau Cheap - Sinful Colors has just released the mother of all holiday collections with a whopping 26 new shades.

Prime Beauty - declares that every woman from 16 to 60 needs a PINCH Minimergency kit! Be prepared for a wardrobe malfunction, nervous armpits or a frizzy hair mishap all in a teeny tiny kit that fits in your bag.

Phyrra - shares the Best Ways to Use e.l.f. Studio Makeup Mist & Set!

we heart this - shares a tale of a preteen search for a "signature scent" (which begins with Reader's Digest and ends with liberal dousing.)

Beauty Junkies Unite - Have a spooktacular Halloween with these great looks from the MAC Rick Baker Halloween Collection!

Chalkboard Nails - Embrace your punk side with this distressed neon nail art. You won’t believe how easy it is!

Clumps of Mascara - In love with green smoothies? Okay, yeah...me too. But what about green juices? I’ve been sippin’ on some and can’t get enough of ‘em. Talk about beauty from the inside and out...

EauMG - pairs popular women’s A/W ‘13 fashion trends with perfume. From camo to punk plaid, EauMG has it covered! This type of post only happens twice a year, so go check it out!
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Friday, October 18, 2013

A-England Briar Rose from the Burne-Jones Dream Collection

A-England Briar Rose

A-England is nothing if not consistent. Their polishes are always beautiful and eye catching with wonderful formulas. Today's polish is, of course, no exception: meet Briar Rose.
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Thursday, October 17, 2013

Happy Hands Nail Polish Are You Afraid of the Dark? Collection for Halloween 2013


I think many of you that read this blog grew up in the 90s and probably watched Are You Afraid of the Dark? on Nickelodeon. And even if you didn't grow up in the 90s, it's likely that you're familiar with the show. As I've mentioned before, I'm a total baby when it comes to scary stuff, and this show scared the pants off of me. I distinctly remember being terrorized by one episode, The Tale of the Quicksilver, while I was babysitting one night. The kids were asleep and thought I could handle it, but clearly watching a scary show while you're alone in a strange house is a dumb idea!

Happy Hands Nail Polish has created this delightfully nostalgic collection inspired by the show for Halloween this year. It consists of two jelly glitters, one glitter topper, and one glow in the dark. Submitted for the approval of The Midnight Society, I call this story The Tale of the Pretty Nails...
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Wednesday, October 16, 2013

SoFlaJo A Snake On the Hand Is Worth Two On the Toes Collection for Halloween 2013


The SoFlaJo Halloween collection for 2013 is called "A Snake On the Hand Is Worth Two On the Toes," and it is inspired by, you guessed it, snakes! Regardless of your feelings about these reptiles, this collection is definitely perfect for the season (and fall in general). It contains shades in a variety of finishes, including scattered holographic, shimmer, duochrome, and flakie. Read on and comment with your picks!
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