Sponsored Post - Revlon PhotoReady BB Cream & Nail Polish review

In order to get at least 8 hours of sleep at night AND make it to work on time, I try to cut down on my ‘getting ready’ time each morning by streamlining my beauty routine. I keep all of my daily makeup items on the counter or towards the front of my vanity drawer, and I keep my makeup basic: moisturizer, eyeliner/mascara, under eye cover up & blush/bronzer. Of course I use a lipgloss, but that’s applied as I’m walking out the door.

I recently tried Revlon PhotoReady BB Cream Skin Perfector SPF 30 and it is now part of my streamlined routine. Wondering what ‘BB’ stand for? I was! It stands for Beauty Balm. It’s a moisturizer, foundation and cover up all in one! It’s not like a heavy, cakey foundation, but covers more than a tinted moisturizer. Revlon’s BB Cream is light but contains heavy duty SPF and still covers blemishes.

As part of my new streamlined routine, I have started to use Revlon’s PhotoReady BB Cream over my facial moisturizer each morning. It makes my skin look more even toned and helps my blush and bronzer stay on longer. You also can’t beat the added layer of SPF it provides. I have dry and extremely sensitive skin, and I think because this cream is so hydrating, I haven't had any reactions to it. Revlon's PhotoReady BB Cream comes in Light, Light/Medium and Medium shades.

Another addition to my beauty regimen is having a fun summer color painted on my nails. I tried out Revlon nail polish in Eclectic and I'm obsessed. It's a beautiful sea green that reminds me of one of my favorite necklaces. It's pretty light so I had to use 3 coats to get full, solid coverage. I have it on my toes, too, and have been getting a ton of compliments on it!

Do you have a beauty regimen? If so, please share below! Also, use the Glam chat below to share your thoughts on using a BB cream!

Revlon believes there is more than one way for women to be seen. Revlon's heritage as a color authority and its suite of innovative products inspires women around the world to express themselves through beauty each and every day.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Revlon Consumer Products via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Revlon Consumer Products.

Inglot AMC Lipgloss and Nail Polish review

I made my first Inglot purchase this past weekend. The husband and I got rained out from the pool in Fort Lauderdale, so we took a short trip to Aventura Mall. The Inglot store caught my eye and I had to stop in.

I learned from the sales rep that Inglot, a Polish cosmetics company, has been around for 25 years, but only in the US for the last 5 years. There are only 6 store fronts in the US, and lucky me, stumbled upon of them! In case your wondering (like I was), it’s pronounced ‘in-glot,’ just how it looks.

The products and store layout reminds me a lot of MAC Cosmetics. There’s definitely no shortage of bright, fierce colors. Inglot allows you to build your own palettes, which is really cool. I was immediately drawn to the lip glosses, and went ga-ga over the AMC glosses.

I tried a few on in store and decided on shade 542. This picture does not do this gloss justice. This gloss looks great by itself, but when layered over a lipstick, more of the pearlescent colors come out, changing when viewed from different directions. Layering it over a lipstick also helps it to stay on longer.

Near the cashier was a table full of marked down items and of course, I had to get this polish that caught my eye. I’m always looking for more neutral colors that will go with several different outfits and is work appropriate. This creamy beige matte is perfect for daily wear and will pretty much compliment any color outfit I wear. It’s suppose to be matte but I applied a glossy top coat to help it last longer.

So my first impression of Inglot is a good one. I have a new favorite gloss and a new every day nail color. I’m sold! Looking forward to trying out more of their glosses and building an eye color palette that can be used for both day and night looks!

Have you tried Inglot yet? If so, what are your favorite items?

Beauty Blogger Coalition Weekly Roundup

 

Get your weekly dose of beauty news all in one session. Check out the beauty reviews and giveaways below from fabulous beauty bloggers!

Blushing Noir: Happy Birthday, GlossyBox! Check out how GlossyBox celebrated their 1 year anniversary in the US!

Mama Fashionista: Mama Fashionista shows how Rimmel London can give you simple, glowing skin this summer!

Lola's Secret Beauty Blog: If you love the intoxicating scent of gardenias and white exotic flowers, then you must try Kai Eau de Parfum! It is the perfect magical summer scent!

BeautyTidbits: Harshleen is having a major love affair with the new It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50!

Beauty 101: Looking to overhaul your makeup collection? Casey from Beauty 101 has put together a drugstore starter kit for you!

Painted Ladies: Sheila tries Emma Jean Scented Nail Polish in Blueberry Pie and is transported to her childhood!

Lipgloss Break: Enter to win a full size Miracle Skin Transformer Acne Control from Lipgloss Break!

TheFabZilla: TheFabZilla introduces to you her second BFF this summer - Hourglass Superficial Waterproof Bronzer

Geniabeme: OCC Lip Tar Stained Gloss is so bright and pretty, perfect for the Summer!

My Highest Self: Tina does a Polka Dot Mani with a bit of 3D action!

Peace Love and Glitter: Switch up your look for summer with the Tarte Aqualillies collection (bonus, it's waterproof!).

Stepford Witch: Spa Sonic's Skin Care System is an affordable and effective way to beautiful skin!

D.G.S.Beauty: Curious about RocksBox? See what D.G.S.Beauty has received in her box this month

Beauty by Miss L: What was in Miss L? Adorebox (monthly subscription beauty box) this time?

Beauty Professor: With the recent arrival of June (where does the time go?!), The Beauty Professor reflects on her favorite products for the month of May!

Patty and Goldie's Day Off: Check out k B Shimmer's new Summer line

The Gloss Menagerie: Missed out on attending Generation Beauty 2013? Read what Alyson thought of the event on The Gloss Menagerie.

Lord & Taylor Friends & Family 6/5 - 6/11

Please share what ya get!

Giveaway Break - Miracle Skin Transformer Acne Control

I have used Miracle Transformer before and I love it. It's a great product that provides awesome coverage. Now they have a new formula, the first ever tinted complexion enhancer for acne prone skin. This could be a game changer!

This is the first acne treatment to fight what they refer to as 'pimple memory,' or recurring breakouts in the spot. I always get pimples in teh same spot, I thought it was just me! This formula includes salicylic acid, anti-mircobial peptides, marine extracts and vitamin B3. These work together to both fight and prevent future breakouts.

Similar to its regular formula, it's lightweight, oil-free, and controls shine, leaving a matte flawless finish. It comes in 5 shades: translucent, light, medium, tan and dark. You can find it at Sephora.com and at www.MiracleSkinTransformer.com. Or....you can try to win one here!

***Giveaway***

Enter to win a full size Miracle Skin Transformer for Acne Control!

Fill out the form below to win. You can enter once a day by tweeting each day!

This giveaway is open to US residents only. The contest will end on Sunday, June 30th. I will randomly select one winner and announce them on Lipgloss Break, so keep checking to see if you're a winner - Good Luck!

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RocksBox Review

I have fabulous new monthly subscription service to share with you all. You may be thinking, 'not another subscription service...,' but this one is different! RocksBox is a membership-based jewelry styling service. As a member, you pay a flat rate of $19/month to trial unlimited designer jewelry, sent to you 3 pieces at a time.

You start by taking a style profile. This is how RocksBox learns your style and puts together jewelry selections they think are a good fit. You can also put in special jewelry requests. You'll receive 3 pieces that are tailored to your style. You can wear them and show them off to your friends, and then do one of two things: 1) Send them back for new pieces to accessorize with or 2) Buy them! If you fall in love with one of the pieces you have the option to buy it at a discounted RocksBox price.

I think the best part about RocksBox is that you get to try out new jewelry that you may not have picked out for yourself on a regular shopping trip. In my first RocksBox, 2 out of the 3 items I would not have picked out for myself, but after pairing them with dresses during my weekend in New Orleans, I fell in love!

Here's what I got in my first box...

There was something about this bracelet by David Aubrey that reminded me of the time I spent in India. Maybe the jade and gold pairing? At any rate, I loved it. I wore this around New Orleans while we were exploring and out at night. The 5 strands of jade make it look like you are wearing several different bracelets. 

 

This is not a necklace I would normally pick out for myself, which is the point of RocksBox. It gets you to try new, edgy styles that you normally wouldn't dare to wear. The House of Harlow Fringe Pedant got me many compliments! I LOVED this necklace. It hung pretty low, down to my belly button, and was super edgy. I wore it with a black dress the few times I wore it, but would have also went well with a solid color top or dress or a neutral color. 

This CC Skye Pave Dome Ring screams cocktail party or black tie affair. I wish I could have kept it for my holiday party in December! I love pave settings. This picture does not do it justice. It sparkled beautifully. It could also be dressed down with jeans and blank tank. 

After you receive your items and wear them out you can then log into your account and give feedback on each item. This will help RockBox select the next set of items you receive. I can't wait to see what I get in my next RocksBox shipment. I love the idea of having new accessories to keep my outfits fresh. Sometimes a single accessory can change an entire outfit. 

Have you heard of RocksBox or received a box yet? If so, what do you think so far? Leave a comment or tweet at me with @MyRocksBox #RocksBoxiFabbo

Note: This review includes products that I received as samples, provided by the brand company or a PR rep. Please click here for more information regarding my disclaimer.

Memorial Day Essentials

It's been a chilly Memorial Day weekend so far here in Michigan. But even though it's not bikini weather, don't forget to wear sunscreen! Here's my Memorial Day 'must have' list:

 

 

I like this sunscreen for my face because it doesn't break me out.

I have a long sleeve mullet dress that I'm obsessed with, kind of like a half maxi dress. I love the look of this maxi dress from JC Penney because it doesn't go all the way to the ground.

 

I practically live in jean jackets in the Spring and Fall. Definitely a necessity when it's only 60 degrees out.

Protect your eyes! These Ray Bans are on my wish list.

Doesn't have to be as fancy as this Lacoste one, but grab a beach blanket or towel and have a picnic in a park!

What are your Memorial Day weekend plans? Hopefully its sunny wherever you are!

Proactiv at Generation Beauty

Proactiv will be a main sponsor at Generation Beauty by ipsy this year and they want to offer up two pairs of tickets, valued at $300 per pair (best for local LA gals). Fill out the entry form on their Facebook page to enter!

Beauty Blogger Coalition Weekly Roundup

Mama Fashionista: Learn how Quinn plans to maintain her new red hair color with L'Occitane!

Advice Sisters Beauty, Fashion and Lifestyle website: Kiehls has developed a unique skincare product that actually can help reduce the signs of stress and perhaps, prevent them

BeautyTidbits : Find out why Harshleen can't stop raving about her latest SPF discovery - Neova DNA Damage Control Everyday SPF 44

My Highest Self: See the before and after photos when Tina reviews the new Revlon Luxurious Colorsilk Buttercream Hair Color!

Lola's Secret Beauty Blog: Maybelline Colorsensational Lipcolor in Born With It No. 015 is a stunning must-have for those ever on the lookout for the perfect pinky nude lipstick, and it's budget friendly!

Painted Ladies: Sheila is glad you she purchased Physicans Formula Custom Shimmer Strips Kajal ... so you don't have to!

TheFabZilla: TheFabZilla spills why Bite Beauty Matte Creme Lipstick is worth the bite

D.G.S.Beauty: Looking for a new BB cream? Try the Hydroxatone Anti-Aging BB Cream!

Beauty Professor: Ever an alluringly elusive line, the Beauty Professor adores Serge Lutens beauty. This week, she shares swatches and a video review of his famed Teint Si Fin foundation powder!

Beauty by Arielle: Review of Real Purity's Cream Blush

Lipgloss Break: Check out Zoya nail polish Stunning Collection - a must for summer!

Blushing Noir: Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Colour makes a quick eye look golden!

Ellie Little Black Collection

You know you have it bad when you spend more money on workout clothes then every day clothes. I'm not one of those girls who gets all done up to go to the gym, but I do think that when you are comfortable in the clothes you work out in, and like the way they look on you, you'll have a better workout. Look good = Feel good. And that's why I'm totally obsessed with Ellie...

I love that Ellie gives you the option to join as a monthly subscriber or purchase items separately. The best bang for you buck is joining as a member, and you'll get 2 items each month for $49.95. You can cancel at any time. Click the banner to the right for 20% off your order!

I already did one post about my obsession with Ellie gear, but recently I got to try out a new outfit from their Little Black Collection and I'm in love all over again.

I packed my new top and pants for my trip to New Orleans a few weekends ago. The hubby and I woke up super early our first morning there and went for a jog along the Mississippi River, which is where we took these pictures.

Ellie Black Widow top.

Pictured above is the 'The Black Widow' top, named this because of the strappy back which is spider-like. But don't let this creep you out...this top is contoured, slimming and sleek. It has a built in bra (medium support) and I didn't have to wear another one for my run (but I'm also smaller on top). The back panel is mesh, and there are also breathable panels along the sides. The panels are sheer, but not too sheer that they are see through. The fabric itself is really breathable, made from EllieProText and Power Mesh. I wore this for a jog, but would also wear it to cycling and kettlebell workouts. This top retails at $44.95.

Ellie logo detail on Black Widow top

Ellie Little Black Capris

The pants I wore are the Ellie Little Black Capris. These fit like a glove. They are super comfortable. I would wear these out and about for errands as well. They are made from wicking fabric that keeps you dry, and are preshrunk so you don't have to worry about washing them. They are also water, wind and tear resistant. I wore these for my run but would also wear them to yoga, kettlebells, cycling and the gym for weightlifting. Little Black Capris retail at $44.95.

Ellie logo detail on Little Black Capris

Ellie also has two new lines out: Cosmic Love and Coral Crush. These are a few of the items that are on my wishlist:

Space Cadet top and Galaxy shorts

Dynamic Duo Top and To Dye for Capris

Have you tried Ellie gear yet? If so, did you like it? What's on your Ellie wishlist? Don't forgot to click on the banner above for 20% of your order!

Note: This review includes products that I received as samples, provided by the brand company or a PR rep, and affiliate links. Please click here for more information regarding my disclaimer.

Beauty Blogger Coalition Weekly Roundup

Mama Fashionista: Attention Curly Girls! Quinn of Mama Fashionista shares her must have products from curly hair specialists, Ouidad!

Lola's Secret Beauty Blog: Looking for a safe, highly effective, and cruelty-free organic facial peel? Then look no further than O.R.G. Skincare Organic Mineral Peel! It's truly amazing!

My Highest Self: The Sea Salt line from H2O Plus brings Tina back to her first beauty splurge!

TheFabZilla: TheFabZilla is summer-glowin' with Nars blush/bronzer duo in desire/blush.

Painted Ladies: Is the Spa Sonic Skin Care System a dupe for the Clairsonic?

BeautyTidbits: Need a little help in the eyeshadow department? Eye Majic Instant Eyeshadow may just be the thing for you!

Blushing Noir: It's getting HOT in here & the Temperature is Rising with the MAC Bare My Soul Eye Shadow Quad!

Pammy Blogs Beauty : Do you need more color to bare your skin for Spring and Summer? Pammy Blogs Beauty reviews Beautisol's Tea Tan Glow.

Beauty by Miss L: Miss L did lovely spring mani using Models Own nail polishes in Golden Green and Gold Digger.

D.G.S.Beauty: In need of new photography equipment? This Seamless Tabletop Background would be a perfect pick.

Beauty Professor: Forever on a foundation hunt, the Beauty Professor weighs in on the Hourglass Immaculate foundation in a review and video tutorial!

Lipgloss Break: Get a bronze glow the healthy way with Beautisol Tea Tan Glow.

Zoya Nail Polish Stunning Collection

Loving Zoya nail polish Sunning Summer 2013 collection. Fun, bright colors for fingers and toes. From top left, going clockwise, the colors are:

Darcy - Bright, yellow (good for future Michigan games!)
Thandie - A creamy orange
Josie - A tealish-green
Rocky - Love the name as much as the color. Will look pretty on toes and paired with denim
Yana - A bright reddish-pink. Another good one for toes
Micky - My favorite from the collection. A Pretty coral-pink that will go with most everything.

For each swatch I did a base coat with two color coats and a quick dry top coat. I always have great wear with Zoya nail polish, lasting in good condition for 3-4 days, and minor touch ups needed after that.

You can purchase these (and many other colors!) from Zoya.com. You can purchase the entire set in a sampler kit for $48 or buy them individually for $8 a pop.

Note: This review includes products that I received as samples, provided by the brand company or a PR rep. Please click here for more information regarding my disclaimer.

Beautisol Tea Tan Glow Review

As I grow older, I think back to my 'tanning' days in high school and college and regret them more and more every year. How did I think that was healthy for my skin? Now, I protect my skin with SPF, but I won't lie, I do still love a little color!

Instead of hitting up the tanning bed I opt for self tanners. Most recently I tried out Beautisol Tea Tan Glow and I loved it. I brought it with me to Vegas, New Orleans, and on my last trip to NY.

I've tried Beautisol self tanner before and I'm a huge fan. The Tea Tan Glow is a newer concept. It's a Wash Off Body Bronzer, and if that isn't self explainatory, it means it washes off in the shower.

At first, I was a little weary of the smell. I usually apply self tanner at night and then shower the next morning to get rid of the smell, but with Beautisol, this won't work since it would just wash off all of my color. It has to be applied the day that you want your color to show. I've used Tea Tan Glow several times and the smell never bothered me. There is a light scent when you first apply it, but it fades fast.

Tea Tan Glow is great if you only want color for a day. If you don't feel like dealing with the fading color or the maintenance of a longer lasting self tanner, or maybe you're afraid of streaks, no worries with Tea Tan, because it washes right off. And if you're read my blog before, you know I have sensitive skin and eczema on my legs. Beautisol Tea Tan Glow did not bother my skin at all. This is the true test that helps me decide if I'm going to use a product again. I'm sold!

Tips for applying Tea Tan Glow:
1 - Wait at least 15 minutes before you dress after applying Tea Tan Glow.
2 - It may not be a great idea to wear white after applying this!
3 - Use a light exfoliater before applying. This helps get rid of dead skin and color will go on smoother.
4 - Put lotion around your ankles, elbows and knees before applying color. This helps the color go on even in these hard to cover places.
3 - I also like to moisturize after it dries. I think it helps to even out the color.
4 - Wash your hands immediately after applying. You may need to exfoliate to get all of the self tanner off your palms.

Do you use self tanner? If so, please share your tips below!

Note: This review includes products that I received as samples, provided by the brand company or a PR rep. Please click here for more information regarding my disclaimer.

Enter to Win $500 Gift Card!

The Beauty Blog Coalition is a group of Beauty Bloggers who work to bring you the latest on all things beauty. This spring we have collaborated to put together a giveaway of $500. Follow the Rafflecopter instructions below to enter. Giveaway is open to international participants.

Here is a list of the member's participating in the current giveaway - be sure to check them out for some enjoyable reading:

The Beauty Blog Coalition is a group of Beauty Bloggers who work to bring you the latest on all things beauty. This spring we have collaborated to put together a giveaway of $500. Follow the Rafflecopter instructions below to enter. Giveaway is open to international participants. Here is a list of the member's participating in the current giveaway - be sure to check them out for some enjoyable reading:  
Blushing Basics 
PolishGalore  
Clumps of Mascara  
Justina's Gems  
Beyond Beauty Lounge  
Beauty 101  
Cosmetics Aficionado 
Just For Trendy Girls  
Peek & Ponder  
Pretty In Pink  
Aquaheart's Obsessions  
InTruBeauty  
Beauty Info Zone  
Moxie Reviews  
Prime Beauty  
Midnight Manicures 
Geniabeme  
Blushing Noir  
Beauty by Miss L  
Peace Love Lipgloss  
TheFabZilla polarbelle  
My Highest Self  
MinaSlater.com - Fabulous Awesomeness  
george&bear  
Lipgloss Break  
Painted Ladies

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Beauty Blogger Coalition Weekly Round Up

Mama Fashionista: Find out why Quinn has traded in her foundation, now that she's discovered Smashbox's CC Cream!

BeautyTidbits: Addicted to your flat iron? Beat the heat damage with the new Agadir Argan Oil Hair Shield 450 plus Spray Treatment!

Lola's Secret Beauty Blog: If you favor luminous foundations or the perfect tinted moisturizers, then say hello to Hourglass Illusion Tinted Moisturizer Oil Free SPF 15! It is nothing short of perfection!

Emily Hudspeth, hair design and makeup artist: DIY Prom Makeup Tips

Beauty Info Zone: Are you looking for an inexpensive but highly effective eye mask? Beauty Info Zone has found the answer.

The FabZilla: You've heard it but don't really know much about it. So what is this thing called maracuja?

Lipgloss Break: Lipgloss Break is giving away a Modella travel cosmetic bag. Enter to win!

The Advice Sisters Beauty, Fashion & Lifestyle: Elixir Collection is a unique new collection from I Colonialim an iconic Italian bath & body brand

Beauty 101: Casey knew that she found the perfect way to clean her brushes when she tried the Koren Zander Pro Brush Soap. Check out her review!

Beauty Professor: Have a job interview coming up? The Beauty Professor's shares her tutorial on polished interview makeup!

Midnight Manicures: Looking for a bronzer that lives up to the hype? See what Jeanie thinks of the Milani Bronzer XL in the new Radiant Tan.

Midnight Manicures: Midnight Manicures announces a new Contributor to the team, Jamie, the creator of Sea Lore Polish. Check out Jamie's newest collection Sea Lore "Spring Seas".

Peppermint Lips Beauty Blog: Real Techniques by Samantha Chapman Brushes Review!

D.G.S.Beauty: Learn a fun, simple and affordable way to create your very own makeup brush holder

The Lacquered Lady: Looking for some lightweight moisture this summer? The Lacquered Lady reviews Vaseline's new Spray and Go Moisturizer

Pammy Blogs Beauty : Turn Your Shower into a Spa! Pammy Blogs Beauty tests it out ExfoliKate Body

NARS Hearts New York City

I love this palette more than NARS loves New York! This limited edition gift set features  4 shadows (Biarritz, Nepal, New York & Galapagos) and a blush/bronzer (Amour Blush and Laguna Bronzer). It also includes a compact version of Chinatown Nail Polish and Dolce Vita lip gloss.

Set is available May 1 at select retailers including Barneys, Lord & Taylor, Saks, Henri Bendel & Bloomingdale's.

7 Tips for Selling through Consignment Shops

With Macklemore’s ‘Thrift Shop’ running through our heads, my husband and I packed up spring and summer clothes from last year and dropped them off at our local consignment shop. I’ve been doing this for the past year and found it to be an easy and fun way to make a few dollars to put towards new items in my wardrobe.

Consignment shops will take new and gently used items and sell them for a discounted price. Once your item sells, you get a percentage of the sale. The percentage you earn varies by shop. The consignment shop I go to, Trading Closets in Brighton, MI, offers you 50% of the selling price. They mark down items each month, and then after 60 days, you can either pick your items up if they don’t sell, or they will mark them down to 80% without any commission or donate them.

The first time I went I really had no idea what to expect. I gathered up about 10 items in my closet I no longer wore and brought them into the store. To my surprise, the store only kept one item! I was floored, and a little insulted, until the consignment shop employee pointed out the reasons she didn’t accept the other items. Slight discoloration…out of season…loose hem….after the run down I totally understood why they didn’t take the rest of my items.

I took what I learned from that trip and applied it to future drop offs, carefully inspecting every item before I left the house. Now, I usually have a 90% success rate when I drop clothes off!

Here are some tips to use when going through your closet and gathering items to bring in:

1. Check the store’s website or call ahead to find out what ‘season’ of clothes they are taking. If it’s March and they only want Spring/Summer clothes, you’ll be wasting your time if you bring your sweaters in. Usually they will be very explicit on what they are accepting.

2. Steam or iron your items before bringing them in the store. Most consignment stores look for items they can transfer directly to their racks. Presentation is everything.

3. Bring clothes in on hangers. Usually stores don’t keep them, but again, it’s all about presentation.

4. Some of the ‘signs of wear’ they look for: deodorant marks on the insides of the arms of tops, fabric balling up (sweaters tend to do this), snags, holes, broken zippers, loose hems, discolorations and stains, just to name a few. Also make sure your items are smoke and pet hair free.

5. Some stores have a special light they put the clothes under to help spot stains or discolorations. It’s helpful to bring your own clothes outside in the sunlight and inspect them before you bring them in. Sometimes indoor lighting can hide imperfections.

6. Depending on the store, they may also accept accessories (purses and jewelry), home goods, furniture, DVDs, and beauty products. Check out the website or store before you go in.

7. Don’t watch over the consignment shop worker while he/she is looking through your clothes. This is just nerve wrecking! Shop around while they are going through your items. You may find some hidden gems!

And remember, don’t be insulted if they don’t take your items! The consignment shop employees know what sells best in their store. They may already have 20 of the same type of item they can’t get rid of. If you find yourself returning home with items, you can always donate them to your local Purple Heart or Salvation Army.

ZOYA Earth Day 2013 Nail Polish Exchange

The nail polish exchange is back! Zoya is helping you with your spring cleaning. Get 50% off Zoya nail polish when you send in your old polish. Check out Zoya.com for details. Hurry and place your order...you have until Friday, April 26th!

Giveaway Break - Modella Weekender Bag

Since I already shared with you my top tips for packing my travel cosmetic bag, I thought I'd share with you a giveaway for you to win one!

Modella wants to give away one Floral Diaries Weekender bag to a lucky Lipgloss Break reader.

***Giveaway***

Enter to win a Modella Weekender bag!

Fill out the form below to win! There are also several different ways you can get extra entries: sign up for my mailing list, post a link to this giveaway on your blog, follow my blog, follow me & retweet on Twitter , follow me on Pinterest, follow me on Instagram or become a fan on Facebook; just make sure to list the number of extra entries in the form below. Enter up to once a day!

This giveaway is open to US residents only. The contest will end on Thursday, May 23rd. I will randomly select one winner and announce them on Lipgloss Break, so keep checking to see if you're a winner - Good Luck!

Beauty Blogger Coalition Weekly Roundup

 

Catch up on your weekly dose of beauty info, all in one post!

 

Mama Fashionista: Mama Fashionista shares the products and tools she's been using lately to get her curls sleek and straight, while maintaining their health!

Emily Hudspeth, hair design and makeup artist: Beautiful Spring Wedding Featured on Style Me Pretty

Lola's Secret Beauty Blog: It is no secret that Clarins makes so many gorgeous products, but their new Instant Light Natural Lip Perfector in Petal Shimmer No. 4 is simply pure magic!

BeautyTidbits: Check out the the swatches and review of the new Prestige Cosmetics Total Intensity Bold Eyeshadow trios over at BeautyTidbits.

Peppermint Lips Beauty Blog: L'oreal True Match Super Blendable Crayon Concealer Review!

Painted Ladies: IMAN Cosmetics Blush in Allure is a budget-friendly win, says Sheila at Painted Ladies.

Scottish Beauty Blog: Outdoor hot tubs and pampering packages, Sarah from Scottish Beauty Blog is hanging out at Scotland's Stobo Castle.

TheFabZilla: TheFabZilla shares how you can update cat-eyes for spring and summer!

The Advice Sisters Beauty, Fashion & Lifestyle Website: OMG! The most beautiful collection of colors for Spring are blooming at AVEDA

Blushing Noir: RocksBox just may be the only jewelry subscription box that is a WIN every time!

Lipgloss Break: Lipgloss Break shares tips on how to efficiently pack (and stock) a travel cosmetic bag!

D.G.S.Beauty: Looking for new skincare products? Check out D.G.S.Beauty's review on a few B. Kamins products

Fabulous Awesomeness: Heard the fuss about keratin but don't know what it is? Mina Slater will tell you in What Is Keratin & Why It's In My Hair Care!

The Lacquered Lady: Check out this gorgeous gray holo!

Oh Snap! It's Giveaway Time!

Get excited...I've teamed up with some fabulous bloggers...again....to bring to you a fabulous giveaway. 10 different prizes, all listed below, with lots of chances to win. Make sure to take advantage of every way to enter!

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My Top 7 Tips for Packing a Cosmetic Bag

Modella cosmetic bag

I’ve come a long way since my days of over packing for trips. I use to have to check a large suitcase for a 3 day trip! Now, after a lot of practice, I don’t panic when I have to pack for a few nights, and I can even get everything in my carry on, in under an hour.

One tactic that I have used that has streamlined the packing process is always keeping my makeup and toiletries bag packed. I like to keep a separate travel cosmetic bag packed with all of my travel friendly sized necessities. The Modella Weekender Cosmetic bag is one I have been using lately. 

The Weekender has 3 main zipper pockets (2 on the inside, one on the outside) that can fit all of my cosmetic items and toiletries. I like that one side is a meshed zipper pocket for toothbrushes and makeup brushes, which will help them dry/breathe if you have to put them in damp. The front pocket also contains travel size bottles which you can fill with your face wash, shampoos, etc. With this always packed and ready to go, I only have to worry about my clothes and accessories when packing for a trip.

Here are my top tips for packing (and stocking!) makeup products and toiletries fast and efficiently!

1 - Keep a container of all your travel size items. I put mine in a separate basket in my linen closet, so when it's time to pack, I know right where they are at and can easily sort through the ones I need to take.

2 - Call ahead and ask the hotel or your host if they have a hair dryer you can use. Hair dryers are bulky and if you don't have to pack one, you'll have more room for shoes :)

3 - Redeem Sephora and Ulta points for travel size items. Free gifts with purchase are also commonly travel size items. Save these for travel. Don't use them every day unless you run out of your full size product. Birchbox and Glossy Box monthly beauty subscriptions are always great for stocking my travel size collection.

4 - Prescription creams, ointments and liquids do not have to be under 3.4oz and do not have to fit in a quart size bag, saving you more room for beauty products.

5 - Opt for towel or powder versions of products when traveling. Towel cleansing facial pads, towel self tanners, powder foundations (instead of liquid), dry powder shampoo, etc.
This will allow you more room for your liquid necessities if you want to carry your luggage on the plane.

6 - Little vials of perfume aren't just sample size, they are travel size! Whenever I get a sample I like I immediately add it to my travel makeup case. I would just recommend putting it in a little Ziploc bag before putting it in your makeup bag for traveling.

7 – I usually use the shampoo and conditioner provided by the hotel, but if you require your own, the mini bottles in hotel rooms are perfect for this. Recycle the mini bottles provided to refill with your own shampoo and conditioner for your next trip!

Remember, liquids have to be below 3.4 ounces. You'll be seeing more of the '3-1-1' rule through security lines now. Here is what the TSA.gov site says:

3-1-1 for carry-ons = 3.4 ounce (100ml) bottle or less (by volume); 1 quart-sized, clear plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin. One-quart bag per person limits the total liquid volume each traveler can bring. 3.4 ounce (100ml) container size is a security measure.

What are your travel tips and tricks? Please share! And stay tuned for a cosmetic bag giveaway this week! 

Note: This review includes products that I received as samples, provided by the brand company or a PR rep. Please click here for more information regarding my disclaimer. 

Yoga + Kettlebells = Cosmic Kettlebells

My kettlebell coach had once told me that Minneapolis has a huge kettlebell following, so when I was there last year, I attended a local kettlebell studio, Southside Kettlebells, and had a blast. So when I was in town last week, I wanted to try out a new studio. I came across Four Gates in my searches and decided to check out a class called Cosmic Kettlebells.

Cosmic Kcttlebells is a combination of vinyasa yoga and kettlebells. Here's the description on the site:

"The word “yoga” means “to integrate” or “union”, and this definition is very well exemplified in this one of a kind class. We merge sun salutations, kettlebell lifts, Qi Gong exercises, and full body hooping to create a state of cosmic bliss and universal strength. We recommend that students attend one kettlebell expansion class first."

I was really curious how the class was going to flow. I was pleasantly surprised at the balance between yoga and kettlebells. I got a great cardio workout in while stretching and meditating in the same hour.

It was American style kettlebell moves which I'm not totally use to, but caught on quick. We picked up our bells from the squat position to start each kettlebell circuit, and then once the circuit was over we did traditional yoga moves.

I was really sore the next day from all of the stretching and deep squats. I will definitely be taking the class again when I visit Minneapolis again. I highly encourage checking out a new class or gym when traveling for work or pleasure. Every class is different and it's always fun to learn and try something new!

And on a separate note, to end my trip, I swung by the Mall of America before I caught my flight, and guess which store was right by my entrance??? Fate!

Get Cozy at a Kimpton Hotel

 

I completed a wonderful stay at the Harbor Court Hotel in San Francisco about a month ago. Harbor Court is a Kimpton Hotel, which are all boutique hotels. I've always been very impressed with Kimpton hotels' hospitality, loyalty program and perks.

Few of the perks....

• I've stayed at 3 different Kimpton Hotels before and all have a complimentary happy hour for guests, including beer, wine and snacks. This is really nice to come back to after a long day of work. They also always have lemon and/or orange flavored water and coffee in the lobby in the AM.

• Once you join their free loyalty program, Kimpton inTouch Loyalty, you automatically get free in room WIFI (it's hard to believe some hotels still charge for this) and $10 worth of goodies from the mini bar. This stay I opted for 2 water bottles, but next time I'm going for the wine.

• At Harbor Court in SF, they have bikes you can check out and use to explore the city. They are also usually pet friendly. I don’t have a pet, but could see this being a huge plus if I was pet owner.

Last year my husband and I celebrated our 4 year anniversary in Chicago. We made reservations at the Palomar hotel and of course, I tweeted about it. We were out and about in the city and when we came back at night we had a lovely surprise, chocolate cover strawberries and champagne! The hotel staff left a really sweet note wishing us a happy anniversary.

Kimpton hotels do a really great job at making you feel ‘at home’ in a big city. They have locations in several big cities, including Boston, Chicago, SF and Miami. If they are an option for your next trip, I highly recommend checking them out!

Photo from Kimptonhotels.com