Will Work for Beauty

Step up in colored tights!

2009-10-22T10:01:00.000-07:00

Colored tights, of gossip girl fame, back by popular demand and better than ever! I've been spotting colored tights all week due to the chilly air that has finally taken over here in L.A..

Spotted: the lovely Miss Chealsea Handler rocking red tights on her nightly show.

Spotted: My adorable, ever fashionable mom in a black minidress and blue tights!

Once I saw them on my mom, I knew I had to blog about it! Not only are colored tights a great way to update what has become a boring winter staple, they are super cute!

Colored tights under a black minidress or romper strike the perfect note between sweet and sexy:

Not only are colored tights big this season, patterned tights are also a huge trend. Don't be afraid to play around; colored or patterned tights can give an outfit great visual interest and can make a simple dress or outfit look super fashionable.

Already tried this trend? Send me a pic at icandy.faceaholic@gmail.com to be featured on my blog!

Get your sizzle on this winter

2009-10-21T07:00:00.000-07:00

Photo:http://dailywd.womansday.com/blog/2009/04/cutest-pet-of-the-day-all-bundled-up-.html

As much as I hate to let it go, summer is officially over. No more shorts, no more beach days (well maybe just a few more), and no more flirty, curve-flattering dresses (unless you think there's something attractive about goosebumps).

Unfortunately for me, due to my penchant for carbs and sweet sweet cupcakes (susiecakes, why so good?) and my non-enthusiasm for the gym, My wiggle has recently acquired a substantial amount of jiggle. I'm not saying it's a bad thing, I mean, who doesn't love a nice full hourglass? But dressing that hourglass has definitely become a challenge. Just when I get the hang of dressing my fuller bod for warm weather, that nip in the air arrives to coax me into getting my frump on.

But where would we be if our forefather's had just given up? If Abraham Lincoln had just decided to take the easy way out? If Tyra had settled for just looking pretty? Hmm, well maybe not that last one, but the point is, I refuse to attend my 8am classes in droopy sweats! I will not succumb to the cold or to the rain and sacrifice fashion for warmth! I can be warm, comfortable, and fashionable while making my body look amazing, and you can too.

Enter Vain Jane's Winter* Wardrobe Staples- because rolling out of bed can look good!

A pair of dark velour pants that makes your ass look sweet! Juicy is obviously the leader of the pack but if you don't feel like dropping a benji on a pair of slutty sweats any knock off pair will do as long as they make you feel as sexy as they do comfy.

A plaid shirt or jacket in your favorite color- nothing says take me home and ravish me in your ski cabin like plaid, and even if there is no such cabin in your foreseeable future, it can never hurt to be prepared. Better safe than sorry ;)

Moccasin-Style Boots- Kate Moss started the trend for goodness sake, not to mention the fact that they are so deliciously comfortable. My faves are Minnetonka, the lace-up knee high, the tramper, and the back zipper bootie.

A Cuddly Over-Sized Cardigan- turns jeans and a tee into a chic low-maintenance look.

Leggings & Tights- How else are you going to make your favorite summer skirts, dresses, and shorts cold weather wearable?

An off the shoulder tee or sweater- Can you think of anything sexier than baring your shoulders when the rest of you is almost completely covered, because I can't!

A Bunnyesque Beanie/Beret to get you through those bad hair days. When else can you wear a hat in L.A. without smoke coming out of your ears?

*Winter in Los Angeles, but these tips can be adapted to any climate no matter how ridiculously cold!

To a fantastic frumpy-less winter! What helps you keep things hot when the temperature is dropping?

Peter Thomas Roth Un-Wrinkle Foundation SPF 20

2009-10-19T20:23:00.000-07:00

Let me preface this by saying that I have never before worn foundation in my life. I pretty much get by with my Clinique concealer and my MUFE HD powder. So, I got a sample of this foundation with my last order from Sephora.com and I used it for a few days. The sample was nice because it came with all 4 colors and enough to probably use it for about a week.

My first impression of the Peter Thomas Roth Un-Wrinkle foundation was that it gave really nice, natural-looking coverage and it was really easy to apply, I just used my fingers! It's pretty much mistake proof, it goes on really sheer and you can build the coverage if you like.

After the third day of wearing it, I got home and I felt like my skin couldn't breathe. I felt a ridiculous urgency to get it off of my face. I figure this is because:

I have combination skin that can be very oily in areas.
I work on my feet all day walking and moving around and that can exaggerate the oiliness.
It had been raining and the air was pretty humid.

So, for any and maybe all of those reasons, I just couldn't stand another day of wearing the foundation. I have to admit I loved the way it evened out my face and my skintone, but it did feel a little bit like my skin was suffocating at the end of the day.

I think this foundation would be perfect for someone with dry or mature skin, but if you have oily or combination skin and you live in a humid environment, just skip it.

Also, Sephora's Friends and Family sale starts today online, 20% off with the code FF2009!

love, iCandy

Don't know what to buy? Check out this post for some great ideas: http://www.musingsofamuse.com/2009/10/sephora-friends-and-family-2009-guide-for-hauling-should-haves-must-haves-and-everything-else.html

Yves Rocher Fall Fragrance Sale + New Tendre Jasmine Perfume

2009-10-18T11:27:00.000-07:00

I have to confess; I've been a little rebellious when it comes to my scent. I work in an industry where perfume is not allowed, and the fact that it's forbidden only makes it more exciting to me! I absolutely love fragrance and I truly believe it is one of the most important components of any outfit, so you can imagine how hard it is for me to leave the house without my signature scent du jour.

Lately I've been sneaking a spritz here and a dab there of my L.A.M.B. and my rose solid perfume, and it makes me feel so exhilarated. Plus I love smelling a whiff of my perfume throughout the day.

As I mentioned before in my review of Leslie Blodgett's Bare Skin, scent is a very powerful thing that has the power to bring up memories and take you back to a place you haven't been in a very long time! This is one of the reasons I love perfume so much, along with the fact that it's something that makes you feel so sensually pretty no matter what you're wearing (especially if you're not wearing anything!).

On that note, Yves Rocher is introducing their new Tendre Jasmine perfume and I can't wait to try it! When I was younger we had a night blooming jasmine bush (tree? vine?) outside of our house and smelling the flowers from my window was just so magical. Ever since then I have been in love with the scent of jasmine. It is so delicate and clean but fragrant at the same time.

Take advantage of Yves Rocher's Fall Fragrance Sale, up to 50% off, and as if that weren't enough, they are giving free Tendre Jasmine mini perfumes with any fragrance purchase!

Just thought I'd let ya know!

love, iCandy

Clinique: Exclusive Holiday Preview & 3 FREE treats!

2009-10-17T00:19:00.000-07:00

Here is a gorgeous special offer from Clinique to score a little somethin' somethin' while
you're stocking up on essentials.

I am exhausted today from my 8am class and also because I spent about 3 hours shopping
at TJ Maxx. I was getting a little curious after seeing all those commercials, and although
I wasn't blown away by anything, it was a good shopping trip overall. I managed to get
some basics on sale like t-shirts and undies, and I got the sassiest interview outfit for my
hopefully upcoming internship interview!

Expect a post on interview attire soon! I always get so stressed about interviews. I don't
know how much of my personal style I should project when I'm going on an interview or
if I should just keep it cool and professional. Today I found myself wondering if neon pumps
might be appropriate, so obviously I need a little guidance! If you absolutely can't wait go
to WhoWhatWear.com for style advice on any occasion!

Have an amazing weekend,
love iCandy

Getting ready for the season of giving!

2009-10-14T20:38:00.000-07:00

Photo: http://www.stilacosmetics.com/promos/holidaygiftguide09/default.asp?utm_source=ncr&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=holidaygiftguide09

Happy Almost-Thursday! I am super tired and also feeling a little lazy today so I'm posting this e-mail I received from Stila about their holiday gift sets as a reminder that the holiday season is fast approaching so start saving now! You don't want to stiff anyone on your list (ok, maybe just one or two people).

Here is the link to the web version of the e-mail: http://www.stilacosmetics.com/promos/holidaygiftguide09/default.asp?utm_source=ncr&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=holidaygiftguide09

But seriously, the holidays are coming and they'll be here sooner than u can say "holiday weight gain", and what better to gift your friends and family than the gift of beauty, a la stila. Obviously there are a lot of things that would be better, like louboutin heels or a fantastic vacation, but those are not really in anyone's price range! What I mean to say is you could do a lot worse than a gift set from Stila!

love, iCandy

P.S.- I recently discovered that people who are addicted to facebook are called "faceaholics", so I am thinking of changing the name of this much-read blog. Something along the lines of "SexyMessyMakeup&Fashion", because being perfect is so 5 minutes ago! Let me know what you think, suggestions are greatly appreciated because records show I'm not as clever as I think I am!

Yves Rocher!

2009-10-13T12:01:00.000-07:00

I used to wash my hair with Yves Rocher's chamomile shampoo every night all through elementary school! It gave me the prettiest golden highlights in my dark brown hair and made it oh-so-soft. Imagine my delight when, on a whim, I searched to see if they were on the web, and they are! (http://www.yvesrocherusa.com/control/main/)

It turns out my beloved chamomile shampoo has been re-branded into a golden highlight enhancing specialty shampoo (on sale now for $7.60!), which is more than fine by me, as long as I can have it! Browsing the site was like taking a stroll down memory lane, remembering how I used to terrorize my mom while she opened the boxes she ordered from Yves Rocher, and begging her to let me have the mini perfume samples.

If there were ever a brand that I fully and wholeheartedly trust it would be this one! Every bottle reminds me of the sweet innocence of childhood and of being completely taken care of. Just seeing the name written out on the website was a pull on my heartstrings. I know some people might find my deep psychological attachment to the brand hard to understand, but everyone has something from their childhood that reminds them of being loved and taken care of. Maybe it's seeing that old school coppertone that your mom slathered on you painstakingly day after summer day even though you cried and complained the whole time, or maybe it's the brand of oatmeal your dad made you before school. Whatever it is, don't worry, I get it!

Not only do I have a deep and long-standing emotional relationship with Yves Rocher, I also love their high environmental standards ( they earned the highest certification for their North American office), and the fact that they don't use any animal products in any of their products. This is truly botanical beauty at it's finest! Can't you tell that I just love love love this brand? It's not too often that you get a little piece of your childhood back, so for me this is really special, but the products are truly great and amazingly priced. Trust me, I'm a lifetime user!

coupon code: 15THANKS to get 15% off any order at http://www.yvesrocherusa.com/control/main/

If I'm not who I was yesterday, who will I be tommorrow?

2009-10-12T00:57:00.000-07:00

Photo: http://www.robertwess.com/popup.html?cat=1&img=7

If watching What Not To Wear has taught me anything, it's that there are a lot of very attractive women out there who see themselves as plain or even ugly and have never thought of themselves as beautiful, not even once!

Thankfully I am not one of those women, but lately, I find myself looking in the mirror and instead of admiring my high cheekbones and full lips I am noticing my face growing rounder and my ever-present blemishes. In high school I remember riding home in the front seat, absolutely mesmerized by my reflection in the side mirror, I was amazed at all the changes that were happening and by my first glimpse of the adult me!

So now I'm wondering, how did I get from there, to here? It has been over 5 years since those self-absorbed, carefree days, but can a few extra pounds and a premenstrual zit really blind me to the beauty that I used to find in myself? I guess "can" is not really the question, but should it? The hardest thing is feeling like all the self-esteem and the effort I made turning myself from a shy little girl into a fierce and confident teen, has gone to waste. How can you lose something that is fundamentally who you are?

I used to wear tight jeans and short skirts and my hair was my signature. I was an outrageous flirt and I didn't care what anyone thought of me. I thought those things defined me, but they must not because I don't do any of those things anymore. Now my jeans definitely fall into the "mom" category and a miniskirt sounds like a death sentence. I still love my hair but unfortunately it has to be covered up most of the time. I spend most of my time trying not to be noticed and I am ridiculously intimidated by boys.

I can't pinpoint exactly when I lost my sass, but it's definitely long gone. Maybe this is just a phase that will pass, but if it isn't I know my new self will emerge eventually. Someone who is maybe a little quieter and a little more demure, but just as funny and smart as before.

I guess the point of all this is that it's never too late to find yourself, even if you have no idea who you are. Whether you lose yourself in a quarter or mid-life crisis, it's not the end of the world! Just because you aren't who you thought you were doesn't mean you can't be someone great. This is a message from me to any woman out there who finds herself "in-between", you're not the only one and things are going to get better!

love, iCandy

Sephora Flirt-It Lash Duo: $8 out of your pocket, and 10 steps closer to insanity

2009-10-11T10:44:00.000-07:00

Photo: Sephora-http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P47072&categoryId=A16

$8 - Sephora.com

I bought these seemingly amazing falsies on a trip to Sephora a while ago, and just decided to use them last week. At first the two types of lashes and included glue in the package seemed like an all-inclusive dream come true!

Let me preface this by saying that I've worn (and applied) fake eyelashes before, on many a Halloween and just to look a little more dramatic, and while I'm no expert, I certainly know how to put them on. But, try as I might, I was not able to get these lashes to stay on. I blame it mostly on the really shitty glue that comes in the package, but also on the fact that the base of the lashes is almost as thin as the lashes themselves, leaving almost no area for your lid to stick to.

So, not only did this give me a massive headache before I even ate breakfast, it also made me late for the one class I was able to register for this semester. All I have to say is, ladies save your $8, and Sephora, I never thought you would let me down, but these lashes are a nightmare!

Leslie Blodgett Perfume Diaries Bare Skin Fragrance - only at Sephora, available online now!

2009-10-09T19:46:00.000-07:00

Photo: Sephora- http://sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P249603&categoryId=B70

For those of you who don't know, Leslie Blodgett is the CEO and beauty powerhouse behind Bare Escentuals mineral makeup. If you don't use it, chances are you know someone who does (my mom), and if you do use it, chances are you die for it (catchphrase courtesy of Rachel Zoe)!

The press for this seductive little fragrance aptly named Bare Skin has been swirling around the web (and, coincidentally, right into my inbox) and it got me a little curious. Sephora has classified this fragrance as a "woody oriental" in the same family as Tom Ford Black Orchid and Thierry Mugler Angel.

My mom wore Angel while I was growing up and I remember sneaking into her room to spray some on my wrists and then lying when she asked me if I had used it. It is such a complex, beautiful scent but the strongest thing about it are the memories it triggers . That's what I love most about scents and fragrance especially. A certain smell can unlock the sweetest memory and can make you feel at home or remind you of that special someone even when you're miles away.

What is so great and unique about Bare Skin is that Blodgett has created the fragrance based on a magical Mexican vacation, using the joy she felt and the memories created there as inspiration. A smell can unlock many a memory, but in this case, Blodgett's first fragrance is an homage to a joyous vacation spent sun-kissed and care-free on the beaches of Mexico.

With notes of Black Pepper, Freesia, Vanilla Orchid, Plumeria, Patchouli, Sandalwood, and Musk (and more!), Sephora reviewers described the scent as rich, and sexy. Is it as sexy as bare skin on a Mexican beach? I'll believe it when I smell it.

love, iCandy

PS- Become a Leslie Blodgett Perfume Diaries fan on facebook to make sure you receive all the latest news!

The New FTC Guides: Because we're all really stupid

2009-10-08T21:58:00.000-07:00

I've recently read about the new FTC guides aimed towards bloggers receiving endorsements (read about it at Jolie Nadine), free products, and even getting paid to write good reviews. Unless you've been living under a rock, or you're very very naive, you are aware that successful beauty bloggers (and any kind of bloggers) receive free products and "incentives" to write positive reviews of the products they are given, among other things. These new guides basically require bloggers to reveal if they are getting paid to post about a product and if the product was given to them for free.

No offense, FTC but it's pretty obvious who is getting products for free and who isn't. I know when Tammy at Lazy Beautiful reviews a product she had to go and shell out her hard-earned cash for it (just like yours truly), as opposed to Karen at Makeup and Beauty Blog who I'm pretty sure is getting tons of perks along with all the hits I'm sure she gets (I ain't mad at you).

While I am in favor of bloggers coming clean about the products and brands they review and recommend, I can't help but feel that these guides are kinda like diet soda; it's a nice gesture, but in the end you know it's not really helping the situation. So what if bloggers, especially beauty bloggers, start disclosing what they got for free and who is sponsoring them, we still have hundreds of magazines and major publications whose beauty editors (who, ironically, don't have to spend a penny on any of the products they recommend!) tell us what products we should be lusting for season after season.

So basically these guides will help little Sally be more discerning when on the web, but when she opens her seventeen magazine she won't be warned that the entire beauty page is just a huge advertisement disguised as "expert advice", or that the products in the make-up bag of her favorite celebrity are all strategically placed and promoted based on that celebrity's current contracts and endorsements.

Hump Day Deals & Steals from Fresh, Clinique, and Bath &Body Works

2009-10-07T16:58:00.001-07:00

Get a free Rose Makeup Bag with online purchase of SUGAR ROSÉ TINTED LIP TREATMENT SPF 15 with promo code ROSE5 at checkout.

This lip balm/color is an Allure Beauty award winner and an all around fave of ladies everywhere!

Allure Magazine- Best of Beauty October 2009- Voted Best Tinted Balm
More Magazine- One of Fall's 10 Best Makeup October 2009
Featured in Elle Magazine Beauty News August 2009
Featured in Nylon Magazine's "Get This" August 2009
Featured in Vanity Fair's "Hot Looks" August 2009

Check out this mighty thorough review of the balm at Confessions of a Balmaholic!

Until Monday, October 12 (or while supples last) get a free eye cream mini (All About Eyes) and free standard shipping with any $30 Clinique.com purchase with the code SOLUTIONS at checkout. Clinique's All About Eyes is a 2009 Glamour Magazine "Glammie" award winner and is ophthalmologist tested.

While supplies last, get a free twilight woods 2 oz. body lotion with any purchase, no promo code required.

On Sale now:

Bath & Body Works Signature Body Butters for $7
Jonathon Finish Hold Firm Hold Spray originally $24 now only $12 -View ratings and reviews at totalbeauty.com and makeupalley.com

Visit the Bath & Body Works Sale Page for a complete list of deals going on Now!

Just a few deals to brighten your day and your week!

love,

iCandy

Bronzer Part "Too"

2009-10-06T09:23:00.000-07:00

Along with my last Sephora.com haul, I got a sample of Too Faced Sun Bunny bronzer, $27, Sephora.com. Since I'm something of a bronzer amateur (using it as a contour/blush and not all over) I can only compare this to my Stila Sun Bronzer (shade 02).

After getting such a great deal on my Stila bronzer and highlighter combo at Sephora.com (both for $10!) I didn't think I could love another bronzer, but I found myself thinking about the lonely sample sitting in my drawer, all bronzey-pink and delicious.

So one day I just couldn't resist! I peeled away the plastic and dipped my brush into it, and let me tell you that was the absolute end of it! I'm in love... again! I used the darker shade just under my cheekbones swirled onto the apples of my cheeks, and the lighter shade (which is amazing, BTW) I use right on top of my cheekbones. I just don't feel complete without it!

This bronzer blends well and has just the right amount of shimmer. The colors are amazing but you do have to use a light hand! Which is fine with me because that just makes it last longer.

The bronzer is sold alone at Sephora.com and in a few Too Faced sets, check them out here.

This will definitely hit my basket during Sephora's Friends and Family sale (Oct. 19-Nov 2.), get 20% off on almost everything with the code FF2009! Start making your list now, and tell me what you've been waiting all year to splurge on!

love, iCandy

Help Clinique Make a Dramatic Difference + 3 Complimentary Gifts!*

2009-10-04T09:54:00.000-07:00

A great deal for a great cause in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month from Clinique! While you're at Clinique.com, get a free online skin consultation to see which products are best for you (I'm skin type 2!). I know there are a lot of die-hard clinique fans out there, fortunately I haven't got into clinique products (yet) because I don't think I can afford another obsession! But it won't hurt to see what products are recommended for me, right?
;) love, iCandy

Last chance to get FREE SMUDGE POT with any purchase!

2009-10-04T09:45:00.000-07:00

Last chance to get FREE SMUDGE POT with any purchase!

Today is the last day to get a free Golden Noir smudge pot with any Stilacosmetics.com purchase.

As per stila:

"This rich black 24kt gold-infused eye liner and shadow in one is

water resistant, smudge-proof, and now FREE!"

 Enter coupon code: FALLBEAUTY at checkout.

Offer ends tonight at midnight.   Pass it on!

Stilacosmetics.com

Free Pink Clutch! Join tarte in Supporting Breast Cancer Awareness

2009-10-03T10:20:00.000-07:00

Join tarte cosmetics in Supporting Breast Cancer Awareness and shop from the Think Pink collection this month; 20% of proceeds from this collection will go to the Young Survival Coalition. As a bonus, receive a free pink clutch with a purchase of $40 or more, code:PinkOct9

Enbrightenment Britesmile Whitener + tarte lipgloss in pearly pink- $26

Lip gloss and teeth whitener in the same package? Amazing! And I was just thinking my smile could use a little brightening... Add tarte's t5 super fruit complex into the mix and it just seems too good to be true.

Wish this came in more colors, but hey, I'll take what I can get!

Tarte eyeshadow in Sweet Valley High (pictured) and Raspberry Beret- $14

The shimmery pale pink of Sweet Valley High is my

dream highlight shade. I love nothing more than a pretty pink dusting of shadow along the brow bone and in the inner corners of the eyes. It does the job and is also pretty and girly at the same time. I'm sure a lot of you feel the same way, in fact I know someone does because the shade is currently out of stock, but hopefully it will be back soon because it is gorgeous.

Natural Cheekstain in Bliss and Dollface (pictured)- $30

What would a list for tarte be without a cheekstain? No list at all! Bliss is a "warm peachy-pink" and Dollface is a "sheer candy pink with a touch of shimmer". Both are oh-so-pretty and amazing I don't think I can choose between them. It's like when you have two children, and they ask you who is your favorite you just take each one aside and let them know they're your favorite but it's "your little secret"... lol

In all seriousness :) I think Bliss is a great color for anyone. I think peachy colors can highlight brown or hazel eyes and they are a great meeting point between traditional blush and bronzers. Pink works in different ways on everyone, so it's very versatile, but can also be very fickle (especially when you add shimmer to the mix). You know what works for you!

Have an amazing weekend ladies! Let me know what you are up to!

Love, iCandy

Love yourself! In this case you only need one to tango!

2009-10-01T22:09:00.000-07:00

Following the lead of my fellow beauty bloggers Tammy at Lazy Beautiful and Renee at Beauty Fool, I've decided to write on what I love about myself.

If you're lucky, you either grew up with healthy self esteem or you discovered it as you grew up. If you're unlucky, you struggle with your self-image and self-worth almost daily. Personally, I am a little bit of both. I truly love myself and would never in a million years want to be anyone else but sometimes society's and my own expectations are hard to get out from under.

So, in honor of building my self esteem and making those bad days a little better, here is what I love about myself:

I love to smile and laugh! I bring joy and happiness to those around me whether it be at work, or to my friends and family.
I am funny.
I love my dark, naturally curly hair whether it is clean and bouncy, or sexy and unkempt, I think it looks fabulous all the time!
I love that I am a "nice" person, but I don't let people walk all over me.
I love that I am like a fierce mother bear with my boyfriend and younger brothers, if anyone messes with them, they have to deal with me (and it ain't pretty).
I love that I am hardworking and trustworthy, I truly value my reputation.
I love that I'm not afraid to express myself or to try new things!
I love my small ankles and wrists.
I love that I am a vegan and love animals (I am seriously obsessed), but I don't alienate the people in my life who do consume meat.
I love that I love so much about myself that I could literally list hundreds of things!

I'm going to leave it at that for now! I think sometimes it's hard to see the beauty and light in yourself when you don't know how to look for it, but no matter how much you struggle with your self-image, your list of things you don't like about yourself should always be much shorter than the list of things you love about yourself! And if it isn't, I'm sure there are tons of people you know that would prove you wrong! Don't be afraid to reach out and let others help you if you need it.

Happy Friday (almost)!

love, iCandy

iCandy invites you to join www.TheFairest.com

2009-10-01T10:20:00.001-07:00

Hey ladies!

I found this great site called The Fairest where members can save up to 75% off retail prices on the latest fashions. It's free to join. They really have amazing prices on some of my favorite brands and I know how much you like a good deal!

Check it out if you haven't already!

Before I post my updated review of The Fairest's processing and shipping procedures (still unhappy, but there is a silver lining) I have to post about all of the amazing sales that are going on right now!

Sonya Dakar (ends in the next 12 hours!)- Not only are skincare products offered, but also Sonya Dakar Beauty Bootcamp products like vitamins and skin/body nourishing shakes (I scooped one up in the strawberry flavor)!

BURN- fancy candles, hand wash, and lotions and body creams with fantastic scents, need I say more?

POP Beauty- Score an entire beauty cabinet (1 bronzer, 3 blushes, black eyeliner, a gold highlighter, 10 eyeshadows, and 6 "lip dews") for $11.40! Everything in this sale is deliciously marked down! There isn't a single item priced above $17.00!

Primal Elements- More kitschy and cute than "ooh-able", this is the least exciting of all 4 sales, but I still couldn't resist the Cupcake Sugar Whip Moisturizing Body Scrub with it's butter cake scent and bedazzled container.

Use this code to get $10 off a purchase of $75 or more: CLOSETHF10, and find more codes at RetailMeNot!

My college fund has just been sufficiently depleted (just kidding, Mom)!

Happy October 1st!

love, iCandy

Free Shipping at Clinique.com until midnight tommorrow!

2009-09-27T21:12:00.001-07:00

Take advantage of this Clinique.com savings and sample with code SKIN at checkout. It's the perfect excuse to blow this week's gas money and try one of their amazing award-winning products.

love, iCandy

P.S.- Does anyone else think the website is as annoying as I do?

The. Most. Amazing. Deal. Ever.

2009-09-25T19:36:00.001-07:00

After my most recent Sephora.com splurge, at checkout I was asked if I wanted to add this Stila As Good As Golden Bronzer and Highlighter duo to my order for

$10, and I thought "Why not?".

I didn't realize what an amazing deal this was until I opened the box and saw two ridiculously

large full-sized Stila products, for $10 (a $60 value)!

Stila products are so lustworthy in general, but at this price,

why lust when you can buy?

Another great feature of this kit is that the bronzer has SPF 15.

The color is exactly how it appears in the compact (and on the website).

It gives a really nice, natural tan glow that isn't too shimmery

but not dull either (not orange at all).

I used it to contour my cheekbones and dusted a little along my forehead and jawbone.

When I put it on this morning I instantly felt so sexy.

Top it off with the highlighter on top of the cheekbones and along the

brow bone and you will positively glow!

This is such an amazing deal and perfect timing; right at the end of the summer season when everyone's complexion can use a little golden pick-me-up.

I hope you like my first round of self-taken pics, and I hope you love this deal as much as I do! Let me know what you think.

Love, iCandy

My new favorite show!

2009-09-25T13:41:00.000-07:00

If you or your mom grew up during or before the 80's, you've probably seen the movie The Witches of Eastwick with Cher, Susan Sarandon, and Michelle Pfeiffer. If you haven't seen the movie, rent it and watch it with your best gals!

This past Wednesday ABC premiered their new show, Eastwick based on the 1987 movie. I love that the feisty, girl-power theme (best personified by a kick-ass Rebecca Romijn in the show) is still as obvious in the show as it is in the movie. Lindsay Price is adorable and sexy as a semi-awkward reporter who learns how to use her "feminine wiles" to her advantage, and Jamie Ray Newman (the redhead) plays a ridiculously busy mother with a total deadbeat husband. The show effortlessly mixes whimsy, magic, and drama to keep you entertained and interested.

I recorded the show on Wednesday mostly because I love Rebecca Romijn (and love her more playing a woman than playing a man who becomes a woman) and I also loved the original movie. I was completely mesmerized by it and now I am borderline obsessed. Maybe watching Practical Magic last weekend psyched me up for this show, but regardless, I love everything about it. Did you see it? Let me know what you thought or tune in next week Wednesday at 10 to decide for yourself!

love, iCandy

*photo credit*http://abc.go.com/shows/eastwick/photos/274807/279933

Free Shipping at Fresh.com through September 25!

2009-09-23T22:19:00.000-07:00

In honor of their 3 Allure beauty awards, Fresh is offering Free Shipping on all online orders with the promo code ALLURE09 through September 25. The award winning products are, the Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15 for Best Lip Balm, Sugar Rose Tinted Lip Treatment SPF 15 for Best Tinted Balm, and Black Tea Instant Perfecting Mask for Best Splurge.

I love Fresh products, they always smell amazing and truly deliver results. I have been using the Soy Face Cleanser for almost a year now. It is a really great, gentle cleanser and it is perfect for removing eye makeup and mascara. The best part is that it conditions while it cleanses to give your lashes a sexy boost.

Not to mention that for the past few years, my go-to scent has been Fresh's Sugar Lemon fragrance. It is the most amazing combination of sweet and clean and just thinking about it makes me want to go out and buy another bottle!

Like me, my mom is an extreme Fresh aficionada so whenever I have the cash I gift her with fresh products like the uber luxurious Rose Face Mask. I have never felt more like a princess in my life than when I used this mask! It is a great, refreshing and hydrating mask with a gorgeous scent. There are actual rose petals in the mask that just melt into your skin along with cucumber and aloe vera to cool and soothe redness.

I could honestly go on and on about my wonderful experiences with Fresh products, but that could get a little boring. If you've never tried anything from Fresh, take advantage of this offer and get an award winning product or a fancy bar of soap, and if you are a die-hard fan like me stock up on your faves while the getting is good!

love, iCandy

Lush- Rub Rub Rub Body Wash

2009-09-22T22:53:00.000-07:00

There are few things I get excited about more than a gift box from Lush. After 5 years together, my bf finally figured this out and got me the Hello Gorgeous Gift Box for my birthday. Everything in the box is so adorable and wonderful, but I felt so amazing after using this shower gel/scrub!

First, the smell: with sea salt, lemon juice, and jasmine, it is so clean in the most natural way. The scent lingered all day making me feel fresh and energized. This cleanser is perfect for me because I'm not allowed to wear perfume at work, but this stays right next to my skin so I can enjoy it, but it doesn't affect the atmosphere around me.

The smell isn't typically feminine, which I like, because it doesn't distract my senses or draw attention, it is just a nice, clean smell to be surrounded by. My favorite thing about this and about all lush products is the simplicity. Simple ingredients, a simple scent, and simple to use.

The first ingredient is a fine sea salt which is a welcome change from the rough and grainy textures of some scrubs. The salt gently polishes skin while it cleanses. Something to note about this cleanser- Don't use this if you have any cuts, burns or broken skin anywhere on your body, salt and lemon juice plus open wounds equals major pain, but it's perfect otherwise!

As is typical with most natural cleansers, it doesn't really foam. If that is a deal breaker for you, then read no further, but if you are like me and don't need lather to feel clean this will more than do the job! There honestly isn't a single thing I don't like about it.

I always turn to Lush when I'm craving something potent and all-natural, and I've never met a product or salesperson from Lush that I didn't like. That is saying a lot. Not only am I super particular and judgmental about cosmetics, I am 100 times more judgmental of sales people. Either the salespeople ignore you or they are too pushy (I'm looking at you, Sephora), and I am very stubborn, so if I am not treated like a valued customer I won't shop at that store (trust me there is a whole list of stores I will never go back to for this very reason).

Needless to say the salespeople at every Lush store I've been to have always been so kind and cheerful and helpful. So I want to say thank you, Lush Glendale and Lush at the 3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica, thank you so much for making my beauty addiction a pleasure!

Piperlime 20% off until Sept. 23 - code TREAT at checkout

2009-09-21T17:26:00.000-07:00

I've often gotten lost in piperlime.com, spending hours looking at shoes and bags I can't afford. Soo when I got the e-mail with this code for 20% off until the 23rd, I thought what else can I do but share it with all of you!

So enjoy 20% off with the code TREAT at checkout, see the extensive restrictions below:

Offer valid online on Piperlime shoe and handbag merchandise only from 12:01am PT September 21, 2009 through 11:59pm PT September 23, 2009 in the US only. Offer not valid on apparel, final sale items or the following select brands: Emilio Pucci, Giuseppe Zanotti, Belle by Sigerson Morrison, Kate Spade, Frye, Donald J Pliner, Brooks and Patagonia. Discount applies to merchandise only, not value of Giftcards purchased, packaging, applicable taxes, or shipping and handling charges. No adjustments on previous purchases. Not valid for cash or cash equivalent. Cannot be combined with other offers or discounts including Gap Inc. employee discount.

love, iCandy!

I love Monday?

2009-09-21T10:13:00.000-07:00

Reasons to love Monday-

GossipGirl

The Rachel Zoe Project

Being fresh and rested for the week

-That's all I can come up with. :)

For those of you who are GG fans like me, how gorgeous was Blake Lively last week in that coral dress? If you not only love GG but you also love beauty (like me, and why wouldn't you, as this is a beauty blog) you would notice how she was literally glowing, and would want to steal her look ASAP.

Here is a link to a totally unnecessary recap of the episode and to one of the only pics I could find of her in the dress ( if you click on the pic it gets bigger) - http://talking-gossip.com/episode-guides/season-3/episode-1-reversal-of-fortunes/-

While super gorgeous, Blake's look isn't too hard to figure out. Obviously the main thing is the coral blush, swept along the cheekbones. Also important is a highlighter for this look. A little highlighter above the cheekbones is always good and in the pic it looks like Blake's goes from above her cheekbones to her temple.

The Next thing is a bright berry gloss or lipstick, and eyeshadow in shades of gold. Top it off with black mascara and eyeliner, and you're done.

Now, if only we could steal some of that amazing figure or her sexy easy charm. *sigh*

Have a great week ladies- love,

iCandy

From Lazybeautiful- Barbie Loves Stila Smudge Pot Swatches

2009-09-20T12:53:00.000-07:00

A huge face-a-holic thank you to Tammy for posting these swatches! This is the one product I've been dying to see before I bought it. Just click HERE (http://lazybeautiful.wordpress.com/2009/09/11/barbie-loves-stila-smudge-pots-shimmery-goodness/) to see her fabulous swatches and see which color is right for you!

TheFairest.com - Why I'm disappointed

2009-09-20T12:23:00.000-07:00

I have to admit I haven't been blog-inspired for the past week (or two), but today, after logging in to my Thefairest.com account to see if my order from September 5th (Jurlique Citrus Purifying Mist) was shipped and seeing that it hasn't been shipped even though it's been over 14 days, I just have to say, "What the hell is taking so long?"

I understand that the sale needs to close before the order ships and all of that nonsense, and I would hardly call myself impatient, but this is ridiculous. At this rate, I'll be lucky if I get my order before October.

Oh Fairest, so great in theory, but it seems like you just can't deliver, pun intended.

Just think twice before you order ladies. It might sound like a good deal, but once you factor in shipping charges and the month long wait for your product, it might just be better to go out and buy it yourself!

love,

so disappointed- iCandy

Tarte Emphaseyes High Definition Eye Pencil in Plum

2009-09-04T23:03:00.001-07:00

My first eyeliner was a jet black smudgy urban decay eyeliner pencil that I used every day on my lids, top and bottom. I was in seventh grade when I first started wearing eye-liner, which gives me about eight years of experience. Despite this fact, I'm usually very non-discerning when it comes to eyeliner. That all changed the moment I first used my tarte Emphaseyes High Definition Eye Pencil a few weeks ago. Never again will I settle for cheap drugstore liner that barely lasts through my morning commute!

There are so many great things about this eyeliner:

The tiny tip which makes application precise and easy
The twist-out dispenser, no sharpener needed
Bold, saturated color (I got it in plum, a deep blue-toned purple that highlights brown & green eyes)
It is super long-lasting and virtually smudge-free- this liner is perfect for defining eyes and emphasizing eye shape and color
This liner is amazing for precise lines and definition, but is not for the smoky sultry bedroom look
The formula is sensitive and nourishing, perfect for the inner rim of the eye (and you'll never get poked by the raggedy ends of your sharpened eye-pencil ever again!)

Even if you're an eyeliner newbie, this liner is thin enough that you'll be lining along your lash line with ease and creating a cat-eye like a pro in no time! If you have blue eyes, go with the liner in chocolate or just go for good-old-standby black.

The more I hear of and try of tarte Cosmetics, the more I love! Most of their products are chemical-free and contain skin nourishing ingredients, while also being environmentally conscious and friendly, and not to mention very high quality. I also love that they have pics on the site of what the product looks like on. I love that I can see the liner in action before I purchase it and can see proof that their concealer does what it claims to do. Go to the website and sign up for the tarte newsletter to get 20% off your next order (hopefully it will include the Emphaseyes High Definition Eye Pencil).

love,

iCandy

p.s.- I got this tip for turning a shiny face into a glowing, dewy compexion from Glamour's Beauty Newsletter, use cut up brown paper lunch bags or super absorbent starbucks napkins as blotting papers to absorb sweat and shine. Haven't tried it yet but I'll do anything to beat the end of summer California heat's mission to turn my face into a slip and slide!

Another Amazing deal from Lazybeautiful!

2009-09-03T22:57:00.001-07:00

Tammy at lazybeautiful.wordpress.com posted about Lorac's VIP starter set, a $160 value for just $18.50. Stop drooling and get over there to learn more!

I also found tons of other great deals at Lorac.com in the VIP discount section like their cheek stamp blush for only $4.99 and lots of other products all at under $20! A recessionista's paradise!

You're welcome!

love, iCandy

Top Chef's Style Spotlight Stealer

2009-09-03T21:19:00.000-07:00

Today I want to show a little style-related love to someone who I think is always amazingly dressed and one of the most gracious reality-TV judges around! Of course I'm talking about Gail Simmons from Food & Wine Magazine and Bravo's Top Chef!

Before you start with your "what about Padma?", let me just say that looking good in clothes and on television is a piece of cake when you are a statuesque former model. Gail wears beautiful clothes that are figure flattering. When I see her on TV I don't think "What a beautiful dress", I think "What a beautiful woman". She has impeccable style and more than holds her own next to Padma.

I love that Gail doesn't shy away from bright colors and bold prints. She shows how colors and patterns can be more slimming and flattering than black with the right silhouette.

Gail is gorgeous proof that you don't need to be stick-thin or devoid of curves (and I'm not just talking about large breasts, we all know real women have hips, and hips are NOT usually without their own stubborn layer of fat) to look amazing, on TV or in life! If you have a womanly body like Gail's (I know I do!) take a style tip from her and try a bright, printed dress with a defined waist and a v-neck, or a high-waisted skirt with a v-neck blouse and heels to make the most of your sexy body.

As for make-up, with her amazing bone-structure and eyes Gail doesn't need much to look beautiful. To create Gail's natural look use a light foundation or tinted moisturizer to even out your complexion and then apply a bright but sheer blush or bronzer along the top of your cheekbones. Use black eyeliner to line along the top lid, making a thicker line towards the outer edge to create just the beginning of a cat-eye. Apply your favorite mascara and highlighting eyeshadow along your brow bone and you are ready to judge any meal that comes your way!

We would all be lucky (and very well-dressed) to have half the fashion sense that Gail posesses, so let's give her the recognition she deserves.

love, iCandy

ps.- On a snarkier note, for those of you who saw Top Chef Masters this past summer, who the hell is Kelly Choi? How did she even get that hosting job, it doesn't look like she has too much experience eating (cue the onslaught of angry Kelly Choi fans, lol).

TheFairest.com

2009-09-01T12:59:00.000-07:00

I've already invited you to join ideeli.com (if you haven't already, sign up using this link www.ideeli.com/invite/iCandy- it's free!) for amazing deals (up to and sometimes over 75% off) on designer clothes and accessories. But, this morning my mom sent me an invite to TheFairest.com,which is basically the same thing but for beauty products! I know, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree, I definitely get most of my beauty and fashion sense from her!

From what I've seen so far, products are usually 50% off. Right now Stila cosmetics and CoolaSkincare products are on sale for the next 2 days. We all know Stila, but Coola Skincare is an organic, natural, and paraben-free suncare line. See more info and products HERE.

To be honest, the Stila products offered were just ok. Mostly lip products, but still a good deal if you are in need!

I heard about the Coola line last year but it unfortunately didn't stay on my radar. I might just have to break my beauty-spending freeze and get some of their face and body sunscreens.

If neither of these sales tickle your fancy, Jurlique, Butter London, and Tarte sales are coming soon! Go to TheFairest.com to join and take advantage of all the great deals!

love, iCandy

Public University: A cheap sandal's nightmare

2009-08-29T11:11:00.000-07:00

If you're wondering why I haven't posted in eons (or so it seems) it's because I started school on Tuesday! Due to budget cuts galore thanks to Mr. Governator, it has been a very stressful time (if you are at a public university in California, then you know what I mean). Either way, on to the beauty!

This past summer I bought these Mossimo Penina Sandals from Target (can't remember the exact price, around $20), thinking

they were so cute and such a great deal! Coincidentally, less than a

week after I fell in love with the Sam Edelman Ginger sandal in

pewter (on the right) at Nordstrom Rack (JLo's been spotted in the gold version). I have to say I wear them constantly, almost every day! Since buying the Target sandals, I have worn them occasionally, to the movies or out running errands, but never worn them for an extended period of time that required a lot of walking,

until this past week.

I don't know about you, but the first day of school for me is always complete chaos, and this year was by far the most chaotic. Parking spaces were literally non-existent and traffic was beyond awful. To make a painful story short I had to park about a mile away from the building my class was in.

After speed-walking for about 15 minutes, I made it to the class only to figure out that I would not be able to add. Since my next class was hours away, I decided to go back home, which meant another mile-long walk back to the car. If you haven't already figured out where this is going, I ended up with blisters on the balls and heels of both of my feet.

So the moral is, ladies, that cheap sandals may look cute and innocent and seem like the greatest thing since volumizing mascara but they will never be as good to you as their more expensive counterparts. I feel like I could walk a 5k in my Sam Edelman sandals, and they are gorgeous on top of that! Even though they cost about 3 times what the Target Sandals cost, I have worn them 10 times as much and they haven't so much as pinched me let alone given me blisters.

Next time you find yourself leaning towards the shoe aisle at Target or Forever 21 take the money you would have spent on those flavor-of-the-week shoes and put it in a jar labeled "Shoes that will last me a lifetime fund" and once you get enough splurge on those Calvin Klein heels you can't stop thinking about or those expensive but oh-so-comfy flats you know you'd wear every day!

P.S.- they make the aforementioned Target sandals in black patent for fall, please, please do not buy them! I know they are cute, but evil is a wily temptress, just say no!

love, iCandy

Pretty Pink Polish & Free Shipping!

2009-08-20T09:42:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I got a Beauty Insider e-mail from Sephora (if you're not an insider you desperately need to be!). Apparently, until 11:59pm tonight Sephora.com is offering free shipping on 12 of their top-rated products! Among them, Diorshow mascara, Nars blush, and Bare Escentuals Buxom lip gloss. To take advantage of this offer use the code RATEWINSHIP at checkout.

I love this offer because usually you need to spend $50 or more to enjoy free shipping, and my pet peeve is shipping charges. For the shipping charge I could get another lipgloss or eyshadow!

Obvously I couldn't resist getting a little something for myself (and I do mean little). School is just around the corner and I can't spend too much, but I did get myself a Sephora by OPI nailpolish in Arm Candy $9 (isn't is the sexiest pink?) as well as a limited edition smashbox eyeshadow duo a $24 value but only $5!! I love my rimmel eyeshadow compact, but they discontinued the colors I use, and I dropped the compact about a year ago and the cover broke off, so I figure it is time for an upgrade.

With tax, my purchase altogether was $15 and some change, and no shipping! I can't wait to try them both! Let me know what you score.

love,

iCandy

A simple pleasure, but is it worth the price?

2009-08-19T00:19:00.001-07:00

I got this Olay Body wash with Tone Enriching Ribbons free in my gift bag from Shape's Beach Body Tour in Santa Monica earlier this summer (as well as a killer booty work-out). So far I've only let myself use it on "special occasions" or if I really need a pick-me-up because it smells so amazing and is just so luxurious and rich.

First of all, the smell is a gorgeous tropical combination of coconut, and mango and tropical flowers that reminds you instantly of the beach, and the lather is full and smooth. A little bit goes a long way.

However, I'm not really sure how "tone enriching" this body wash. I didn't notice any better results with this than with my dove beauty bar apart from a little extra moisture. Also, I noticed that the primary moisturizing ingredient is mineral oil, which is not at the top of the list of moisturizing ingredients as far as quality.

Now, since I got my product for free I am a little bit biased. It's easy to see the good in something when you didn't have to put up any green.

I've seen this being sold from $6 to $8 (Burt's Bees body wash and other more expensive natural brands also retail for around $8).

Although I love the smell of this body wash, and of course I'll use it until it runs out, I would not purchase this from the store when there are so many other products to choose from that are much more high qaulity. Sure, maybe they aren't "tone enriching", but what does that even mean anyway? Empty promises are certainly not worth $8.

At just under $3 ($2 on sale now) CVS Hydrating Body Wash with Essential Oils contains shea butter and sweet almond oil. Say goodbye to mediocre mineral oil and hello to natural ingredients that are professional moisturizing ingredients, for less than half the price!

If you are willing to pay more to keep your skin hydrated, try Burt's Bees Citrus and Ginger Root Body Wash, $8 at CVS. This body wash has too many amazing ingredients to list (coconut oil, sunflower oil, lemongrass, honey, and lavender oil to name a few) and is 97% natural and PH balanced. Definitely miles ahead of Olay, but for the same price.

I've always been curious about Burt's Bees products, I tried a few in high school but now there are so many more products to choose from. Let me know your experience!

love,

iCandy

My first pair of shoedazzle shoes!

2009-08-18T19:06:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I got my first 5 choices for this month on shoedazzle.com. Unfortunately, none of them tickled my fancy but, after using the option to get 5 more choices, I found these sexy puppies today and soon they will arrive at my doorstep!

One thing I am concerned about is the fact that most of the shoes are not brand name and no details are offered about the materials the shoes are made of other than "faux" this and "faux" that which doesn't sound too promising.

When they do indeed arrive at my doorstep I will have to do a thorough quality inspection! Don't worry I'll let you in on all the details.

love,

iCandy

Tarte-tastic savings thanks to lazybeautiful!

2009-08-17T23:35:00.000-07:00

Head on over to lazybeautiful to find a promo code that will get you 40% off tarte products until August 24th! Most of the products are already reasonably priced, so at such a steep discount why shouldn't you try a tinted lip balm or a cheek tint?

Treat yourself to some amazing, natural and eco-friendly beauty products from tarte. At 40% off, there's really no reaosn not to.

Go to lazybeautiful for the code and head on over to tartecosmetics.com to start shopping!

Bobbi Brown Crystal Lip Gloss

2009-08-16T23:42:00.000-07:00

Even after trying this crystal gloss ($17, bobbi brown) just one time, I have to take back everything I said about it being like the drugstore gloss I used in high school.

This morning I applied the gloss over my bobbi brown SPF 15 lip balm just for fun. It went on so smooth and silky, not sticky at all. The best part was that my boyfriend didn't even complain about the gloss when he kissed me! I don't think he even noticed it, that's how smooth it is.

The shine itself was very nice, not overpowering or ultra-lacquered, but a very nice polished shine. After I applied it I didn't even notice I had it on. I used to really dislike gloss in general because most of them are so sticky or taste terrible or are just plain uncomfortable, but this sets the new standard.

This gloss would be perfect over my covergirl outlast lipstain, and over any lipstain for that matter! I highly recommend this for anyone craving a little more shine or for someone who wants a natural but "done" look for day or night. I hope you love it as much as I do.

love,

iCandy

Shoedazzle.com

2009-08-16T21:14:00.001-07:00

I know I've never told you guys this, but I love shoes just as much as (if not more than) beauty products, which is why I joined shoedazzle.com today. The site (which was founded by Kim Kardashian), for $39 a month gives you a choice between 5 shoes. Each month you pick the pair you want to have most and voila! it's yours. The best part is you can choose to skip a month if none of the shoes strike your fancy and you won't be charged. If they look different in person or they just don't fit, returns are easy with a pre-printed label!

Some people have gotten confused thinking it is a show rental site like bag borrow or steal, but it's not. You are buying the shoes so of course you get to keep them. I think this is a great idea for shoe lovers (who isn't?) and people that can't afford to spend hundreds of dollars on shoes, no matter how great they may be.

I am definitely looking forward to my first recommendations and to my first pair of shoes! Hopefully this will be as great as it appears to be! I'll keep you posted.

love,

iCandy

Things I Learned Today

2009-08-15T21:29:00.000-07:00

1. A fedora can really complete an outfit!.

2. Cleansing oil isn't all it's cracked up to be (at least not for my skin).

3. Stress can keep the most successful face-clearing routine from having any effect.

4. Love Stories and love realities are two completely different things.

5. Happiness is one of the most expensive things on earth.

6. Never throw anything away you might one day be able to sell for $3 at a garage sale.

7. Boys will never live up to your expectations (and maybe we never live up to theirs).

8. A pig decorated cake= one of the cutest things you'll ever see.

Bobbi Brown Lip Balm SPF 15- Quick Take

2009-08-13T22:26:00.000-07:00

Last week I ordered this lip balm from bobbi brown. I figured I might as well take advantage of the free shipping and the samples.

Although this balm is definitely a necessity, I bought it mostly because it was one of the few things I could afford ($17). After getting home and opening the package, I saw it is a little smaller than what I thought I would get. It is 15g in comparison to my Rosebud Salve which is 22g. But, there are a lot of really great, high-quality moisturizing ingredients in this balm like jojoba oil, olive oil, and lavender.

I like the texture of this balm, it is very fine and smooth and really sinks in to make my lips soft as opposed to sitting on top of my lips without being absorbed. Combine that with SPF and I say this balm is a definite winner. I think it is definitely worth it despite the high price, but we'll see how it performs on a day-to-day basis and I will keep you posted!

On another note, the mini crystal gloss sample was a little disappointing. It looks like the clear gloss I used to buy from the drugstore in high school, but as I haven't even tried it yet I probably shouldn't judge. The other two samples I got are the cleansing oil (which I'm dying to try) and the luminous moisturizing foundation.

Happy almost-Friday! love, iCandy

I like my salad tossed but...

2009-08-13T10:55:00.000-07:00

That doesn't mean I want to smell like one!

I've been reading in a lot of magazines lately about DIY body scrubs and I think it is a great idea. Body scrubs are very easy to make and there isn't too much a store-bought scrub can do that a homemade scrub can't. One thing I thought was puzzling was that most of the articles recommended using olive oil in a homemade scrub.

While olive oil is a great moisturizing oil, I don't think there are too many of us that want to smell like a salad or pasta when we are done moisturizing (unless your boyfriend is into that sort of thing ;)).

For a sweeter, more feminine, less "Olive Garden" smell to your scrub, try adding jojoba oil or sweet almond oil to natural cane or brown sugar. Remember, you want enough oil to give it a nice, slushy consistency, but not so much that they sugar is swimming in it. Use the same guidelines except with salt to create a muscle relaxing scrub (just watch those cuts and scratches!), or with coffee grinds to make an invigorating scrub that is said to help reduce cellulite and prevent varicose veins (I will definitely have to investigate this).

If you have any experience with at-home scrubs please share! And if you've tried coffee grinds let us know if the caffeine is really as much a miracle ingredient as it is made out to be! Have a great Thursday, just remember the weekend is right around the corner.

love, iCandy

Something good and something just ok

2009-08-11T20:59:00.000-07:00

During the bath and body works sale I purchased Patricia Wexler Fastscription™ Instant De-Puff Eye Gel, $19.50 Bathandbodyworks.com. A multiple award-winning product, I had very high hopes for this little gel. To my surprise (and delight!) it really delivered. I had a few rough nights which resulted in puffy and droopy eyes, and after applying the gel under my eyes and along my brow bone (very lightly) my eyes were instantly brightened and I looked ten times more awake and alert.

Along with reducing puffiness, the gel is said to reduce the appearance of fine lines over a period of time. I haven't been using it long enough to tell, nor do I have enough fine lines to be able to support or deny this claim, but all of the reviews of this product are positive and it is definitely a very handy tool for any woman to have, fine lines or not.

Note: the tube is on the small side, but a little goes a long way, a very long way! Just the tiniest dab will see you through both eyes in the morning.

My "just ok" product today is my Clinique Acne Solutions Concealing Stick, $13.50, Sephora.com. When I bought it I thought that it sounded too good to be true, a concealer that also helps solve the problem, sounds like fantasy-land. Now that I've been using it for a few months I know it actually is too good to be true. Aside from the fact that it doesn't help blemishes clear up any faster than normal, and judging it only as a concealer, this product is alright, but nothing special. It is good at reducing redness or darkness under the nose and at covering small, flat spots, but it doesn't work so well on pimples that protrude from the face (and don't they all?) or on blemishes that are darker in color.

But, considering the fact that it does claim to help blemishes heal faster but doesn't, it just drops the score even lower. I would recommend this product to someone who has clear skin and is looking for a minor concealer that won't cause blemishes, but I would also recommend to shop around and to see if a better or cheaper alternative is available. As for all of us who do have pimples now and then (especially during that special time of the month) we need a product that delivers and gives us the results we deserve, so let me know if you've found one!

I hate to post a negative review, but sometimes it just has to be done. Sorry Clinique, but I do have my eye on the Acne Solutions Post Blemish Formula, so hopefully you can redeem yourself!

love, iCandy

Christian Siriano for VS Makeup

2009-08-09T11:59:00.000-07:00

While I'm not exactly a die-hard fan of Victoria's Secret and their clothes/lingerie/cosmetics, I have to admit that everything I've ever bought from there (makeup, underwear, and body lotion) has been pretty amazing (especially for the relatively low prices on beauty products)! Which makes me wonder why I don't shop there more often, but it's never too late to start, right?

And what better time than now when Christian Siriano has launched his makeup line through Victoria's Secret to complement his Fall clothing line. The best part is that all of the items are under $20 (take that Bobbi Brown). And, as if I would expect anything less from Victoria's Secret, the packaging is gorgeous and very sexy.

Quite possibly my favorite thing from the collection, this adorable makeup bag, $12 is perfect for stowing your daily essentials. Who really wants to have to dig through their entire bag to find their chapstick? With this bag you can keep everything you need for daily touch-ups neat and

organized.

I have to admit, even I sometimes use shimmery eyeliner as a cheekbone highlight shade, but now, thanks to this pretty bronzer highlighter trio, $16, I won't ever have to again! With a bright, pale highlight shade, a matte and a pearly bronzing shade, what more could you ask for to create the perfect endlesssummer glow?

Now I don't know about you, but I sometimes find my eyeliner, a little, oh I don't know, boring. Although I never leave home without my eyes lined in black or navy blue, I sometimes wish my liner would add a little extra glamour to my life. That's where this Kajal Kohl Eyeliner, $12 comes in. Channel your inner Cleopatra with this smoky liner and add a little extra va voom to your look.

What would any smokey liner be without a sexy eyeshadow? I absolutely love all of the colors this silky eyeshadow, $12 comes in. Use the darker colors like royalty and gilded fierce layered on top of eyeliner for a more dramatic smoky eye, and use the lighter colors like nude and sandstorm in the inner corners of the eye and on the browbone.

I love these products not only for what they can do, but for how adorable they look! These will sex up your bathroom or your make-up bag and make you feel sexy before they're even on your face. If I had an endless supply of cash I would buy them all. But since I don't, all I can do is dream...

love, iCandy

Bobbi Brown Cosmetics

2009-08-06T21:44:00.000-07:00

For a few weeks now I've been eyeing the fancy beauty products at bobbibrowncosmetics.com, but I haven't built up the courage to spend so much money on products I've never tried before. So I was pleased tonight to find this in my inbox:

WEEKEND EXCLUSIVE
Enjoy FREE Standard Shipping on Any Order PLUS a Mini Crystal Lip Gloss!
This Weekend Only: August 7-9

Enter offer code ENJOY5 at checkout (one time use only)

This gives me the perfect excuse to try some of Bobbi Brown's award-winning products! So, in honor of this weekend's exclusive promo code and beauty in general, here is my fall wishlist of bobbi brown cosmetics!

1. Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner $21.00- A multi award winning eyeliner that comes in the most amazing colors! Somewhere between liquid and solid, gel eyeliner combines the drama of a liquid liner with the

application ease of a solid liner. For myself and all of my other brown-eyed bunnies, I would go with a dark blue, indigo or a shiny blue-green such as cobalt blue (03), Indigo Ink (20), or Ivy Shimmer Ink (14).

For all of you icy blue-eyed gals I recommend a warm brown with orange undertones like Bronze Shimmer Ink (09).

Don't think I forget about you green-eyed and hazel gals. Go with a Red-based brown or deep purple to really make your eyes stand out. My picks are Black Plum Ink (08) or Violet Ink (04).

2. Shimmer Wash Eye-Shadow $20.00- A shimmery, sheer

eyeshadow; use the lighter shades (Gold, Petal, Beige) as a highlighter on your brow-bone and in the inner corners of your eyes, and the darker shades (Black Plum, Eggplant, Sapphire) as a defining shade on top of liner.

3. Lip Balm SPF 15 $17.00- Simple, but so necessary! A daily lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from the harsh rays of the sun. Normally I just slap on some Rosebud Salve in the morning but sadly, it doesn't give me any sun protection so I might just have to upgrade to this lovely balm!

Remember, you get to choose 2 free samples with any online purchase (plus the crystal lip gloss sample makes 3!).Enjoy the promo code and have a happy friday ladies!

love,

iCandy

Why didn't I think of this?

2009-08-05T23:31:00.000-07:00

An amazing, recession friendly hair tip from Holic.boX courtesy of face-a-holic friend Polaris Supernova:

Instead of spending your hard-earned cash on fancy products to make your hair look like you spent a day at the beach lounging in the sun and splashing in the ocean, just bring some of the ocean home with you to re-create the look!

Check out the post HERE to rule the shore with your sexy waves.

If you can't get to the beach or feel more comfortable making your own salt-water spray at home, mix about 1/4 cup of salt into a spray bottle of water, mist onto freshly showered hair, and let your hair dry naturally.

love,

iCandy

P.S.- Want more hair tips? Check out this about.com article, Hair Styling: 13 Secrets to Sexy Hair to steal tricks from the pros.

Don't Forget your SPF- it's not just for your face!

2009-08-04T22:44:00.000-07:00

By now most of us never leave the house without some kind of sunscreen on our faces (at least I should hope so), but why stop at your face? Hands need protection as well, as does your neck, and your chest, and your arms, and really any skin that is exposed to the sun on a daily basis.

Need proof? Take a look at any woman over 50, if her face doesn't give away her age, her chest and hands will.

I'm not saying we should be ashamed to look our age once we start getting up there, I'm saying, if there are little, relatively simple things we can do everyday to better preserve ourselves so that when the time comes, we will be able to relish our wisdom and maturity instead of worrying about our sagging and spotted skin, then why not take the time do to it?

In honor of growing older gracefully, every morning after I use my oil-free SPF 15 moisturizer on my face I slather Coppertone Nutrashield Dual Defense SPF 70 (not only does it have a high SPF, it also contains antioxidants Vitamin E and Vitamin A to nourish your skin) on my hands, arms, neck and chest. It is great because it offers great sun protection plus antioxidants, all without the tell-tale sunscreen smell or greasy residue. I've been using it for over 6 months and no one has ever noticed that I'm wearing sunscreen at all. In fact, I barely even notice it; once I put it on, it just gets absorbed into my skin like any other moisturizer. With a product this great, there is no excuse not to wear SPF on a daily basis.

Just remember, a little SPF now could help you look a whole lot better in the future, so don't be lazy and leave yourself unprotected!

love,

iCandy

P.S.- you'll thank me when you're 50 with great skin!

Keep the "Beauty" in "Beauty Sleep"

2009-08-02T22:29:00.000-07:00

Even though we all like to pretend we're perfectly gorgeous creatures 100% of the time (especially me), every month perfection is thrown to the wind as we all struggle to deal with mother nature's monthly "gift". Prior to last month, I had only heard about menstrual pain so bad you can barely move, and so painful you can't think about anything else, but just a few weeks ago I actually spent a whole day experiencing such monstrous cramps that it was all I could do to keep myself from crying.

All I can say is thank goodness I had the good sense to get some Midol PM from the store (and the commercials are so cute). Before taking it that night, I had never taken Midol PM or its daytime counterpart and I never really gave it much credit. Well, let me tell you, not only did it take the excruciating pain away, as soon as it kicked in, I slept like an unnaturally well-adjusted baby. I have never slept so good on my period! Normally I'm up every few hours, going to the bathroom or "just checking" and I can't get comfortable enough to really rest. With Midol PM I only woke up once, at around 7 in the morning and after that I slept until around 9.

If cramps ever keep you awake at night, it doesn't have to be that way! Do yourself and everyone else who has to interact with you a favor and keep the "beauty" in "beauty sleep" by helping yourself to a Midol PM . Just be aware that you will most likely be knocked out so make sure you have the right pad for your flow and cover your mattress and sheets appropriately so you don't have any accidents.

Thank you Midol!

love, iCandy

Battle of the Drugstore Blush!

2009-08-01T22:38:00.000-07:00

Just to let you know how afraid of looking like a trampy circus clown I used to be, I never used to wear blush (granted, just a few years ago I was a fresh-faced teen so I didn't really need any), but now mineral make-up has appeared to tame my clown-fueled anxietes with blush that is so natural people will just assume you are a beautiful, rosy-cheeked angel and not even realize that you're wearing blush at all!

Blush Challenger #1- L'oreal Paris Bare Naturale Blush

This blush is already way ahead of its competitors just due to the fact that it comes with its own brush. The dispenser is like most other mineral make-up brands, a small container with holes to

shake out the make-up, but sadly, no way to secure it for traveling (perhaps with tape?). Built in brush and packaging aside, the blush blends flawlessly into skin, giving a super natural glow. The formula is extra shiny with a lot of dimension and lasts all day, through work, sweat, and play.

The blush in Pinched Pink works great for my medium skin, just a sweep along my cheekbones gives me a natural wash of color that brightens up my face and makes me look like I spent a few minutes in the sun. The only drawback is that there aren't too many colors to choose from, mostly in the pink and bronze family, but it is a really great quality brush, drugstore brand or not.

Blush Challenger #2- Maybelline NY Mineral Power Naturally Luminous Blush

I bought this blush in True Peach for my vacation last month. The first thing I noticed about it (apart from there being no brush) was that the blush was more matte than shimmery, which is not so great. You want your blush to attract and reflect light, not absorb it. This blush comes in a wider range of colors than the L'oreal blush, most of them seem universally flattering, but just in case you aren't sure which will work for you, the website offers a color matching tool where you enter your skin tone and eye color and it selects the best colors for your coloring.

I discovered that while the blush is not very special on its own (despite the pretty color), it makes a perfect cheek stain when I mix it with equal parts of my rosebud salve, which also gives it a nice shine that the powder alone lacks Using it this way is also nice for summer, because a stain will hold up better than powder in hot weather.

Although both put up a good fight, I have to say that the L'oreal Bare Naturale beats out the Maybelline Blush just by a few hairs, mostly because of the brush and because of the shimmery and long-lasting powder. Let me know which one is your favorite.

love, iCandy

Coconut Love, Polaris!

2009-07-31T22:34:00.000-07:00

It looks like Coconut fever is spreading! Check out Polaris Supernova's blog response to my post at her face-a-holic inspired blog holicblox.blogspot.com about Organix Nourishing Coconut Milk Shampoo.

Find out if it's worth the splurge, and if coconut is as good in your hair as it is on your skin.

love,

iCandy

Jonathon Create Volume Thickening Foam

2009-07-31T21:59:00.000-07:00

$24- Sephora.com

First of all, let me tell you what I love about this product: It's vegan (just like me!), it's tested on celelbrities (as opposed to helpless bunnies), and most of the ingredients are natural and healthy for your hair.

It also makes good on its promises! I have very fine curly hair that tends to succumb to "triangle head" with flat roots and frizzy ends so I worship a product that can give my roots some lift and bounce. This product does exactly what it promises, it thickens the strands of my hair and gives it much-needed lift, and that's without any blow-drying or heat styling!

The one thing that disappointed me about the product (aside from the fact that it contains parabens, which I knew and accepted when I bought it) was that it made my hair a little stiff, for lack of a better word. My hair wasn't hard or hair-spray stiff by any means, but it lacked the fresh softness and flexibility that it usually has after a shower. Not a deal-breaker, but just something to think about.

I would use this product if I'm looking for a style with a little extra hold, maybe for a night out or a daytime up-do or sophisticated pony, but not for a soft, sexy "hair-tossable" style.

So, just to wrap up, overall this product is good. It's natural, vegan, and it delivers on the volume front and thickens fine strands. Not so good is the residual stiffness once your hair has air-dried (which could probably be combatted by a blow dryer). Overall I highly recommend Jonathon products, love the natural ingredients and that there is no animal testing! If you've tried any let me know your experience!

Has anyone tired "Dirt", I'm dying to try it but I'll admit I'm a little intimidated, is there such a product that can really give you that perfect, sexy, "second day" hair?

love,

iCandy

My two favorite moisturizing ingredients

2009-07-30T22:13:00.000-07:00

Jojoba Oil- I first bought this at Trader Joe's aftere I read that jojoba oil can help with dandruff and is good at taming frizz and moisturizing the scalp. Although it is more greasy in my hair than I'd like, a quick shampoo takes care of that, and all of its other uses quickly make up for it.

I use it on my elbows, on my feet, on the ends of my hair, on my knees, and once a week, on my entire body. What makes it so great is the chemical structure is easy for your skin to absorb and instead of sitting on top of it, it melts into your skin and makes it super smooth and supple.

Jojoba oil is included in a lot of products, everything from lotion to hair conditioner. If a product has jojoba oil, it is sometimes an indicator of a higher quality product, as is shea butter and avocado, so if you are spending a few extra bucks on something, make sure it's worth it.

Find Desert Essence Jojoba Oil at your local Trader Joe's or online HERE.

I'm sure there are hundreds of other things it can do (make your own body scrub, anyone?) and as soon as I figure them out I will definitely keep you posted.

Coconut Butter- A few years ago at Trader

Joe's (it always comes back to you Trader Joe) they carried a coconut butter lotion. It was the most natural, luxurious, most amazingly scented lotion I have ever used.

Although the lotion was discontinued and I still haven't found a suitable replacement, I now know how great coconut butter is as a moisturizing ingredient. So, if you're ever in need of a moisturizer, now you have two amazing, natural ingredients to choose from, so put that chemical filled drugstore brand lotion down and get back to the basics!

100% Pure makes a coconut body cream that is vegetarian, isn't tested on animals, and has coconut oil, coconut milk, and coconut extract. If that doesn't satisfy my coconut craving, I don't know what will.

Have any dry skin secrets? Let me know!

love,

iCandy

Josie Maran Cosmetics Wishlist!

2009-07-19T17:52:00.000-07:00

For every beauty products that I have tried, there are hundreds that are just waiting to be tried, tested, and either treasured or tossed out!

Launched in 2007, Josie Maran's line of cosmetics are eco-friendly (packaging is recyclable and bio-degradable) and free of parabens (can't decide if I should boycott them or not but I'd rather be safe than sorry!), and aren't tested on animals. Despite seeing the line everywhere and being more than mildly intrigued, I still haven't tried any of the products, But I have compiled a wishlist for fall of the products from the line I'd like to try most, check it out!

Bronzing Argan Oil- $52 A nourishing, simple moisturizer with Vitamin E and bronzers? Sounds like a perfect combination of ingredients to keep your skin hydrated through the fall and help you hold onto that beachy summer glow!

Tinted Moisturizer- $38 A triple-action moisturizer with SPF 30 and a sheer foundation built in, looks like a win-win-win for your skin. Never having used any sort of foundation before, I've always been curious about tinted moisturizer as an alternative to full on coverage, and what could be better than one with a high SPF and natural ingredients to even out your complexion and nourish and protect your skin?

Eye Shadow in Chianti (shimmery red plum)- $20 A feisty shade of plum to go with your fall peacoat, somewhere between blue, pink, red and brown, this shade pops any eye color! Use it as a sparkly daytime shade, or layer it for an intense nighttime look with eyeliner.

And as an added bonus, courtesy of the go-to rag of shopaholics everywhere, Lucky Magazine, enter the code "luckybreaks9" at checkout to receive 30% off your purchase (every month Lucky is filled with codes like this to help you save at some amazing online retailers)!

Garnier Fructis Wonder Waves Shampoo

2009-07-18T21:20:00.000-07:00

Wandering the aisles at Target (always unnervingly well-stocked with the latest and greatest in beauty products- they just added origins!), I was trying to stay away, I really was, but I just couldn't pass up $2.99 for Garnier Fructis Curl Shaping Gel and a sample size of Wonder Waves Shampoo.

Overall, I have to say the shaping gel was just ok. I used about 10 sprays on my whole head, and then used my fingers to scrunch and spiral my curls into place. My curls were nicely shaped, very bouncy and ringlet-y but not well defined. I'd say it is nice if your hair isn't prone to frizz or you live in an area with low humidity. My hair is thin and fine and frizz is second nature, so I have to say that it was a little disappointing for me.

On the other hand, I was pleasantly surprised with the wonder waves shampoo. It didn't dry out my hair like some shampoos do, and it left my hair really soft before conditioning.

I've never tried any of the Garnier products before, and I think they could work well for certain hair types and textures, but for me it just didn't cut it. Life is too short to have bad hair days, right?

In a rut?

2009-07-08T22:33:00.000-07:00

I'm sure my loyal readers have noticed I have been strangely AWOL lately (all 3 of you, love you ladies). I guess I just haven't been 100% myself. In honor of feeling like crap, I've made a list (it's short, but useful nonetheless) of things to help you get out of that hole you're in and back into the sunshine with the regular folks!

1. Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Conditioner-great for rejuvenating tired, depressed hair, think of it as Valium for your locks! It may be cheap but it is also great at its job! You don't need to spend a million bucks to look it.

2. Take a Bath!- It's ok to wallow sometimes, as long as you do it in a luscious, perfumed bubble bath. Target's Soap & Glory line has amazing smelling bubble baths and body scrubs ( and tons of other great, fun beauty products) to turn you from dud to diva in no time, or as much time as you want!

3. Break a Sweat- whether you prefer good old fashioned exercise or like to bellydance in the privacy of your bedroom, a little endorphin buzz can turn anyone's moody blues into cheerleader enthusiasm!

4. Laugh!- look up babies eating lemons on youtube or Tivo America's Funniest Home Videos (it really doesn't get any less funny as you get older) to help you see the lighter side of things. Laughter and happiness are contagious so help spread the joy!

5. Treat yourself to a Mani Pedi- I don't know about you ladies, but there is nothing that makes me feel more masculine than messy, unkempt toes. A pretty shade of pink or sweet summery orange (I'm lusting after Dior's Sweet Orange from Sephora.)

What keeps you out of the doldroms? All tips are welcome and appreciated!!

Vacay!

2009-06-29T17:06:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Rainy Florida!

I hate to be away from my computer, but everyone needs a break sometimes (hence, the less than regular posting). I'll be back on Wednesday to reveal my high-humidity hair and travel to-go tips as well as advice on just letting it go (your pre-conceived notions about beauty, that is), and the greatest beauty-focused work of fiction ever!

Something I can't wait to share: I found the cutest, affordable, most comfortable (no really, they are) pair of espadrilles at OldNavy.com before my trip. Mine are in Navy Stripe but they are so comfy I just might have to get another pair. Find them HERE

Keep having a sassy summer!
love,
iCandy

Sephora Brand Nano Eyeliner

2009-06-21T11:53:00.000-07:00

This adorable pencil is only $5 at Sephora.com. The color I purchased was 07 Golden Sand. I think this pencil is a good deal, and would probably be better in a darker color, but the gold wasn't what I was expecting. The color barely showed up on my lids and the formula was a little bit sticky on my eyelids.

I love a shimmery gold eyeliner, especially during the summer, but this pencil was definitely a disappointment. The color was almost dirty, instead of being shiny and metallic. I hate to post a negative review but it's my responsibility to be honest!

Does anyone have a gold eyeliner that they absolutely love or have experience with the Nano Eyeliner in a different color? Let us know!

love,
iCandy

UPDATE!: Although the Nano Pencil doesn't work great for what I initially bought it for, it is great for creating a day-time smokey eye! The metallic color makes it a fresh take on a night-time classic. I just smear some along my eye-lid below the crease, line with black liner and it is a great, fun look. The "stickiness" I mentioned before makes it last all day, even through a long walk in the sun with the dogs.

After Work Survival Kit

2009-06-18T16:06:00.000-07:00

I don't now about you, but I like to think of myself as spontaneous. The problem is, it's hard to be spontaneous when your girlfriends call you up right after you get off work to come and have a girl's night, or when your boyfriend surprises you by picking you up from work for an impromptu dinner date. So what do you do in a situation like that? Freak out, cry, laugh it off? Normally I would do all of the above, but since life doesn't stop for anyone, I decided I have to start rolling with the punches. And then it hit me, just like everyone should have an emergency and first aid kit in their car, us ladies should also have a date night/girl's night/look fabulous no matter what kit with them at all times!

I can't even count the number of times I've had to embarrassingly go out in my work clothes and without my mascara (gasp!). So, in order to prevent a catastrophe like this from happening again I have made a list of things that can take any girl from wilted to full bloom in just a few minutes. These items will help you be a modern-day Super Woman, you'll be able to go from work-day frump to nighttime glam in no time!

Item #1: Push-up Bra/Flesh-Toned Thong/Boy Shorts
Yes, I know that the first item is really three, but undergarments can all be in one category. The foundation of your outfit is what will make you look and feel your best, and you want to be prepared for anything, so I think these are a must when transitioning from work to evening. You don't want to be stuck in your "comfortable" bra and panties if you are on a date! Find great options at Macys.com.

Item #2: Skinny Jeans
There are very few items of clothing that can up your sexiness quotient quite as much as the perfect pair of curve-hugging jeans. I can only speak for myself, but the right pair of jeans can transform me from a tired bore into the life of the party! Looking hot is all about feeling comfortable and confident at the same time, and skinny jeans (as long as they don't cut off your circulation) do the trick. You can always find great deals at Forever21, and if you have a fuller figure (like me!) Guess Jeans always fit great.

Item #3: Sexy Tee/Flirty Blouse
Because, duh, what else are you going to wear with your jeans?

Item #4: Heels you can walk in & Comfy flats
Both because you never know how far you'll need to walk, or how sexy you need to look!

Item #5: Travel-Size Deodorant, Baby Powder, & Body Spray/Perfume
Even if you work in an office and sit all day, you probably don't smell amazing after work. If you don't smell good, you won't feel good! I use Baby Powder to lightly dust my flats before I wear them because you don't want your feet or your shoes to be smelly.

Item #6: Dry Shampoo & Bobby Pins
Although I don't believe there is a single dry shampoo out there that lives up to its claims, I do think that they are valuable in a certain setting; the setting being that you have to go out and either don't have time to shower or don't have access to a real shower. Dry Shampoos are great for smoothing frizz, controlling excess oil, and making stale strands smell fresh! My favorite is Ojon Rub-Out Dry Cleanser To-Go $10 Sephora.com. The bobby pins are just in case you need to pin your bangs, create a sexy braid, or whatever!

Item #7: Blotting Papers/Cleansing Face Wipe
No one looks good with a shiny face! Sephora's Lab Series For Men Oil Control Towelettes (not just for men!) $15 for 30 towelettes, are great for removing that end of day sweat sheen and keeping oil under control!

Item #8: Eyeliner/Mascara/Eyelash Curler
Do I even need to explain why?

Item #9: Sexy Lip Gloss/Lipstick/Lipstain
If there's one thing that can drive men crazy (at least on our face), it's a full, sexy pout, so never leave home without it! As we all know, I love CoverGirl Outlast Lipstain, but I also love Soap & Glory Sexy Mother Pucker Lip Gloss from Target which is shiny, smells like cupcakes, and helps plump lips!

So, that's what's in my emergency kit! Have something else you can't hit the town without? Let me know!
love,
iCandy

How to clean a Kabuki Brush and...more mascara!

2009-06-13T12:26:00.000-07:00

After realizing that I had never, not once cleaned any of my make-up brushes, I bought Clinique's Makeup Brush Cleanser ($12.50 for 8 oz) from Sephora. It worked great on my angled eye-liner brush and my eye shadow brush, but when it came to my kabuki brush, I have to admit I was stumped.

So, after some investigating I found an article at ehow.com about Cleaning those darned Kabuki brushes. It turns out that they can be cleaned just like any other brush, you just have to be a little more delicate so that the brush maintains its shape, and you should let it dry standing up for best results.

Once I figured that out, I found myself once again at my local CVS in need of paper goods (paper towels, toilet paper), but as I walked down the beauty aisle (they would make you walk through all the good stuff to get to the things you need) I noticed L'Oreal's New Extra Volume Collagen Mascara ($7.99). Obviously, I had to try it. But, in my haste I didn't notice that I had picked up Brown Black instead of Black or even better, Blackest Black until I opened the package to use it the next morning. But, color aside, the brush is huge, and it really does give my lashes tons of volume (so far I have experienced zero clumping and no spikiness, hooray!). Although it doesn't beat out my current fave (Benefit's BADgal Lash) it comes very very close and it is definitely a bargain at under $10. I will definitely go back and buy it in Blackest Black!

Dying to get dolled up? Go to Sephora's Weekly Specials page and check out the special deals and samples going on to make sure you don't miss out.
love,
iCandy

2009-06-12T20:51:00.001-07:00

I wonder if Marilyn Monroe ever felt guilty about eating a chocolate chip cookie? Or did she ever feel fat or un-sexy? It has taken me a very long time to accept the fact that I will never be a size 2 (or a size 4…or a size 6) but even keeping myself at a size 8 has become a challenge!

But this isn’t about size or weight, and neither is feeling pretty! For so long I let myself get wrapped up in my dress size and a silly number on a scale! Feeling pretty is about smiling, about being yourself, and about letting yourself indulge from time to time. It’s about embracing your hips (however large or small) and seeing the beauty in yourself and your body instead of obsessing over your flaws (which only you notice, by the way!).

So, in honor of PMS (and chocolate chip cookies!), these are my beauty picks for feeling absolutely gorgeous even on those gross “fat” days when you don’t work out even though you’ve already skipped a day (or two) and you just can’t stop yourself from indulging (don’t feel bad ladies, it really is hormonal).

Victoria's Secret - Satin Kimono Short Robe $39.99 Victoriassecret.com- Forget flannel, everyone needs a soft, sexy robe to slip on in the morning (or whenever!), and what could be better than a gorgeous, kimono-inspired one? This one comes in black, pink, and periwinkle and is guaranteed to up the sex appeal of the dowdiest granny panties (we all have a pair!).

Even if no one ever sees you in it, it will still make you feel like a gorgeous Hollywood starlet (think more Marilyn, less Lindsay). And if there is someone to see you in it, he or she will probably enjoy it even more than you will. Just because you're sitting at home doesn't mean you can't look spectacular doing it!

Fred Flare Holly Golightly Sleep Mask $14 fredflare.com - I am a huge B.A.T. fan and I fell in love with this adorable sleep mask that looks like it was snatched from Ms. Golightly herself! While you might not be able to sleep a whole night with this mask on, it is perfect for a mid-day nap or even just to hold your hair off your face when you wake up. If nothing else, it will make you feel pretty and glamorous, and isn't that enough? sidenote- Find this mask and tons of other cute, semi-useless things at fredflare.com

Gerber Grins & Giggles Lavender Baby Lotion (available at CVS pharmacy)- I bought this lotion because it was on sale for $1 at CVS and put it on that night after my shower. I know what you're going to say, "But, iCandy, this is for babies!" Yes, I know, but it smells amazing! The lavender/chamomile scent will have you sleeping like a baby and smelling oh-so-good. Just because we're all grown up doesn't mean we can't still indulge in a little good old fashioned baby lotion from time to time (or every night).

Forever 21 Black Ruffled Wrap Dress $27.80 Forever21.com- If you must leave the house, then this easy, stylish black dress is the perfect choice. The deep v-neck and pleated skirt (not to mention the color) hide a multitude of sins (including last night's dessert), while simultaneously making you look hot! It's almost too good to be true! You could even wear this dress with flip-flops and still look adorable (although some summery heels would definitely be the perfect match). Top it off with some cute earrings or bangles and no one will be able to tell that you woke up feeling not-so-hot.

Ideeli & some sweet smelling lotion!

2009-06-11T22:18:00.000-07:00

If you haven't already discovered the magic that is ideeli, then what are you waiting for? I just bought a pair of Paper Denim & Cloth jeans for $39!!!!! If you really hurry, you might be able to score something from the Chloe Sale. So pick your jaw up off the floor, and use this url to join: www.ideeli.com/invite/iCandy (just paste it into your nav bar).

While I was shopping the Bath & Body Works sale last week, my shopping-savvy mom was also scoring some deals of her own! She came home with the Mystic Silk 24-Hour Ultimate Moisture Body Lotion with Silk Protein and Rice Bran Oil (who comes up with these names? lol), $10.50 Bath&BodyWorks.com. It has some great moisturizing ingredients (as mentioned above) and some even greater reviews.

I love the smell of this lotion! The green tea scent is sweet and pleasant but not so sweet you get tired of it. I found myself smelling my hands all afternoon after I put this on! Use this code 9656 to get 20% off of $25 or more at Bath&BodyWorks.com.

As if I needed another reason to shop...

2009-06-10T22:14:00.000-07:00

My girl Tammy at Lazy Beautiful just posted oodles of discount codes for some of my favorite online beauty retailers (Clinique,Benefit,MAC and many more!). If you were thinking of trying a new cleanser or eye shadow, or anything at all, check the post out HERE first to make sure you get the most bang for your buck!
love,
iCandy

Tracy Feith For Target

2009-06-10T21:43:00.000-07:00

When I first saw the ads for the Tracy Feith for Target Collection, I was overwhelmed by the bright, fun colors, and summery cuteness of the clothes. However, when I went to the website to check out the clothes, there were really only two things that I could actually see myself spending money on. So, here are my picks from the collection, but keep in mind that I haven't actually seen any of these items, only seen pictures, so I can't attest to fit or fabric quality.

My first pick from the collection is the Strapless Dress-Ebony, which is $44.99 at Target.com. The nipped in waist and full skirt are sexy in an innocent way, and are perfect for accentuating curves. The dress also has some great detailing on the bodice which makes it look more expensive. This piece is a great staple for summer, and very versatile. With flats and a funky necklace it is perfect for day, or with heels and an updo it can easily be a great piece for night. Every woman needs a LBD...or two...or three...

My second (and last) pick from the collection is the Print Skirt-Crazy Daisy ($29.99). The high waist elongates the legs and is in style for the summer. The A-line skirt is feminine yet forgiving (good for those of us with bigger hips, or even for those with slim hips as it can create curves). I love the print for summer, although paired with the wrong shoes it could look a little grandma-ish. Make sure to keep the shoes sexy. High-heeled wedges or sexy strappy sandals are sure to keep this skirt looking young and hip.

One thing I do have to say about Target's designer lines is that, while they always sound so great and exciting, more often than not, they don't deliver. Most of the pieces are too trendy to really fall in love with, and the others are just so-so. Who would you like to see designing for Target? Let me know what you think!

Downsize your beauty routine!

2009-06-09T23:07:00.000-07:00

We all know I am a die-hard beauty addict (if you are reading this, odds are you are too!), but it's not always necessary, or practical, to spend more than ten or twenty minutes (guilty!) getting ready in the morning. In certain situations (such as an impromptu trip to Las Vegas) it's downright silly! So, how does one shave precious minutes off her beauty routine?

Well, let's start with the obvious; Using a one-time use cloth or wipe to cleanse your face is a quick and easy way to make sure your complexion stays clear and fresh even when you're on vacation or pressed for time. A great, wallet friendly pick is Sephora's FACE 25 Makeup Removing Wipes with Vitamin E and Shea Butter (only $8 for 25 wipes at Sephora.com). For those who can afford to spend a little more, Josie Maran Bear Naked Wipes, which also contain Vitamin E, along with aloe vera, cucumber, and chamomile, are a great choice for your face as well as for the planet (They're biodegradeable)! It is $12 for 30 wipes at Sephora.com, and a portion of the proceeds from each package go to help saving polar bears (an endangered species).

The logical next step is moisturizer. When you're on the go or in a hurry, it's best to combine a few steps into one such as moisturizer and foundation. If you have the skin to pull it off, just use a moisturizer suited to your skin type; I love Perricone MD Face Finishing Moisturizer from Sephora, although it is a bit pricey ($65 for 2 oz) and since it doesn't have SPF, layering with sunscreen is a must. A more affordable alternative is Aveeno Positiviely Radiant Daily Moisturizer with SPF 15, which is oil-free, proven to improve skin tone and texture, and has UVA/UVB protection. Even I'll admit that it seems to blow Perricone MD out of the water, but hey, different strokes for different folks, right?

If you don't feel you have the skin to pull off just wearing moisturizer, or just feel more comfortable with a little coverage, then use a tinted moisturizer like Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer from Sephora. It isn't the most affordable moisturizer ($42 for 1.5 oz) , but it is a best seller (all of the reviews I saw gave it 5 out of 5 stars!) and it comes in a wide variety of shades so you're sure to find the right one for you, not to mention that it also offers SPF 20.

After your face is clean and moisturized, blush is an absolute must! The key with blush is to apply it in the right quantity, in the right place. I see a lot of women who use too much blush in all the wrong places. Remember, you want it to look natural, the goal is to recapture that teenage glow that we all took for granted in high school. I love Sephora Brand Blush Me Twice in Coral/Bronze ( $8 at Sephora.com it also comes in Hot Pink/Bronze, it works perfectly on my medium/tan skin, the bronzer and shimmery coral blush blended together give me a great, sun-kissed glow!). Another great blush that really lasts is L'Oreal Paris Bare Naturale Blush, I use pinched pink. The mineral formula blends seamlessly into my skin and gives me the perfect amount of color. When I apply blush, I start just behind the apples of the cheeks and make a "C" shape along my cheekbones, right where the sun would normally hit my face. The biggest thing to remember when using blush is that a little goes a long way! You want people to notice your healthy glow, not notice that you are wearing makeup.

Last but not least are the eyes! You may be able to get away with removing a few steps from your beauty routine, but eyeliner and mascara are always absolutely necessary. Before I do anything else, I apply a light, champagne colored highlighter ( I use the highlighting shade in Rimmel's Colour Rush Quad Eyeshadow Palette 005-Chocolatine because it suits my skintone, plus I use the darker shade as a contour in the crease just above my eye) along my brow bone, along the top of my eyelid, in the corners of my eyes alongside the bridge of my nose (the tearduct), and a sweep directly underneath my bottom lashes. Next I use a lighter eyeliner (purple, dark brown, or navy, depending on my mood) to generously line along my top lashes and just a touch in the outer corners of my bottom lashes, and follow up with a long-lasting black eyeliner (L'Oreal Infallible Never Fail Eyeliner is one of the best I have ever used!) as close to the lash line as possible just to polish the look.

Of course the final step is mascara (on curled lashes, of course), and I am a huge fan of Benefit's BADgal Lash Mascara for day and night. I used this routine to get ready in less than 5 minutes in Vegas (I even kept up with the boys!),and if I can do it, I know you can! So next time you are stuck in a hotel or without your complete stash of beauty products, just make sure you have these essentials with you and you will be able to create a sexy look in less time than it took you to read this post.
love,
iCandy

CoverGirl Outlast Lipstain

2009-06-08T17:17:00.000-07:00

Even after all these years of wearing make-up and trying this product and that product the one thing that still intimidates me is lipstick. Some women can pull it off and look amazing (Scarlett Johansson, Gwen Stefani, Angelina Jolie, you get the picture) but how do you know if you are one of those women? Instead of trying to figure it out I have just stuck with my sparkly gloss and my rosebud salve, but recently I found myself thinking if only my lips had a little more color, then my look would be complete!

After weeks of procrastinating (for really no good reason) I finally made it to CVS and got myself CoverGirl Outlast Lipstain in color 415-Teasing Blush. After looking at all of the colors available online I wish I had gone in sooner because a lot of the colors, like 430-coy coral, and 435-flirty nude that I would have loved to try were sold out!

That being said, I am absolutely in love with this product! I use it on just-licked lips (the directions say to use on dry lips but it is harder to blend the color when your lips are dry) and lightly fill in my lips, then rub them together to make sure the color is even (sidenote: it even smells and tastes good!). I apply lip balm on top of my lips to moisturize and seal, and voila! It instantly amps up my daytime look without being too obvious.

The color (415-Teasing Blush) works great for my medium/tan complexion, giving me a nice pop of sexy, just-bitten color. This also lasts forever! I put it on in the morning before an eight hour workday, and when I went out to dinner my lipcolor was still there as if I had just applied it. I love the concept of a lipstain, and I love CoverGirl's affordable, quality take on such a great idea. I love products that make my beauty routine shorter, and this is one must-have that takes seconds to apply and tens of hours to fade away.

Let me know your experience with lipsticks and lipstains. If you've tried one of CoverGirl's more expensive counterparts I would love to hear about your experience! Reader reviews are always welcome and wanted!

Vegas, Baby!

2009-06-07T21:36:00.000-07:00

It's been a crazy weekend for me, due to an impromptu trip to Las Vegas (5 hour overnight drive included, hooray!). I know, I know, don't hate me just yet, it isn't as glamorous as it sounds. After 5 hours of sitting in the middle seat in the back of a Jeep (I never realized how little leg room there is in there), while I should have been at home getting my beauty rest, I didn't look anywhere close to pretty!

Lucky for me I was able to rewrite and shorten my daily beauty routine (normally close to 30 minutes long) to keep up with my male tripmates (curse the male species and their ability to be ready at just a moment's notice).

Unfortunately I am still recovering! I only crossed the border into Cali a mere 6 hours ago so forgive me for not being on my A game. But I will be back tommorrow with tons of tips from my trip (including how to look your best with only a few minutes of sleep, and how to speed up your beauty routine without sacrificing any beauty at all) and my picks from the new GO International: Tracy Feith collection for Target.

A huuuuuge thank you to my sexy followers, you know who you are! ;)
love,
iCandy

Good Morning Sunshine!

2009-06-04T09:17:00.000-07:00

After three days of slow, painful, where am I? waking scenarios when my alarm went off to signal the start of my day (undoubtedly due to PMS), today's roll and stumble out of bed was not ideal but a welcome improvement! In honor of this, I decided to forgo my daily coffee and instead make a refreshing fruit smoothie to get my day started on the right path. As we all know, what we put in our bodies is just as important, if not more, than what we put on our bodies to keep ourselves young and beautiful.

Normally I just throw a banana, some berries, flax seed, and some vanilla soy milk in the blender and drink the result, no matter how good (or not so good) it tastes. Today I chose my ingredients with care:

1 banana
1/2 cup (approximately, I never really measure) of vanilly soy milk
6 pieces of frozen papaya (Trader Joe's has a huge selection of frozen fruit)
4 pieces of very ripe fresh mango (If you buy it pre-cut it saves so much trouble!)

Start at your blender's lowest setting, and every 20 seconds or so up the setting until there are no clumps of fruit and everything is blended together. Blending at a higher setting will give your smoothie a slightly foamy consistency, which I love, but if you don't just blend longer at a lower setting.

I forgot to add the flax seed today but a teaspoon of flax seed is always good! It was the best smoothie I've ever made for myself! The mango and papaya made it slightly tropical, which is fun for summer, and the vanilly soy milk added just the right amount of sweetness and flavor. A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream would make this smoothie an irresistible dessert treat (must try this next time!).

Bath & Body Works Sale! - and $10 off!

2009-06-03T22:39:00.000-07:00

Bath & Body Works sale going on right now through the end of this week (some promotions end tonight, others end June 5, and others end June 7). Use this code 9543 to get $10 off any purchase of $40 or more through June 14, 2009.

The Bath & Body Works sale not only has great deals on lotions, and skincare in general, but there are some super sweet deals on things like room scents and sprays that I am always dying to try but not willing to spend so much money on. Select room sprays are only $3!!!

Also, and this pretty much goes without saying, Bath & Body Works products make great gifts! No one has to know you got their Enchanted Orchid Body Wash for only $5 (I won't tell if you won't).

I know this post is a little last minute, but if you are in need of new lotion or body wash definitely take advantage of this sale and the promo code above!

love,
iCandy

Reader Review: Tammy on Rimmel's Stay Matte Foundation

2009-06-02T16:06:00.000-07:00

Name: Tammy
Website: http://lazybeautiful.wordpress.com/
City: Los Angeles, CA

Skin Type: Oily/Acne-prone
Skin Tone: Medium/Tan

Never leave the house without: Lip balm! I make my own. Also, Ben Nye Neutral Set face powder and Ecotools Recycled Aluminum Retractable Kabuki brush.

Summer Slim-Down Secret: 1. Drink lots of water. I highly recommend using a Sigg aluminum bottle. They save you money by not having to buy plastic water bottles all the time! 2. Take your vitamins. I love Centrum Chewables; they're so convenient and don't make me queasy! 3. Exercise (duh!)

Review: Rimmel's Stay Matte Foundation
I usually purchase my foundations from Sephora because I've never come across a drugstore brand that has not given me a bad reaction (and the color is never exactly right). I had been looking for a drugstore foundation to save some money, so when I saw the ad for Rimmel Stay Matte Foundation, I decided to give it a try. Target had it on sale for five bucks! Score! I got it in Sand, the darkest shade available. Let's start with packaging. Love it! It's compact, great for travel, and easy to see how much is left in the tube. Also, the tube makes it very sanitary because you don't have to pour it out or stick applicators inside to get the product out. The application? Smooth and blended easily, but sadly the shade ended up being a bit too light for my medium to tan, Asian skin. Also, it does not stay matte like it claims. I have very oily skin and I thought this would help keep shine at bay, but it didn't. It has very little staying power; I wore this with primer and it still faded within hours and made my face feel slick. Not a good look. The only good thing is that I didn't get any bad reactions. In fact, it helped clear up my little cluster of acne on my forehead! I returned it after a week and went straight back to Sephora. If Rimmel made this foundation with better staying power and more colors, I would give it another go. Until then, I'm sticking to Sephora for my foundation needs. I guess you really do get you pay for when it comes to foundation.

A thousand thank you's to Tammy for submitting her review, I was dying to know if this foundation was worth trying! Make sure to check out Tammy's blog at http://lazybeautiful.wordpress.com/.

iCandy at Beauty and The Blog

2009-06-01T21:43:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough to be a guest blogger for Sephora's Beauty and The Blog! Check out my top five can't live without beauty products (and find out my real name!) HERE!

Think I missed something? Let me know! I'd love to hear what you treasure most and could absolutely not live without in your beauty arsenal. I always welcome reader reviews and tips (comment or e-mail icandy.faceaholic@gmail.com), because for every girl that has curly hair, medium skin and an oily T-zone (like yours truly) there are dozens more who are opposite in every way who could benefit from a truly great product that maybe just isn't quite right for me. Don't be shy! Who doesn't love a little inbox love?
love,
iCandy

Philosophy at Sephora: Eye Hope

2009-06-01T16:36:00.000-07:00

If you are as obsessed with beauty as I am (many have come close, but few truly are), you would know that philosophy's new Eye Hope™ Advanced Anti-Aging Eye Cream is now available at Sephora! If you didn't know, don't worry that's why I'm here.

For a while now I've looked for an eye cream that is made to fight wrinkles and dark circles and puffiness, because really, why can't I have my cake and eat it too? In a clinical study, over 80% of participants showed improvement in all four areas, fine lines, puffiness, smoothness, and dark circles. With antioxidants, shea butter, and beta glucan (known for helping skin maintain a healthy youthful appearance and elasticity) I could almost recommend this without trying it! Hey, I said almost.

If you have tried it, let me know what you think! I promise to try it as soon as I run out of my L'Oreal RevitaLift Eye Cream, which claims to do some of the same things as Eye Hope™ like reduce lines and puffiness (but doesn't take care of those darned under-eye circles). From my experience, RevitaLift gets an A+ as far as puffiness (even after staying up until 2 A.M. crying over a boy I was barely puffy when I got up at 8 to go to work the next day!). As far as fine lines, mine are still too fine to notice if it has made a difference of not, which could mean it's working, or it could just mean I am in my 20's. Either way, it's never too early to take preventative measures against wrinkles, because when it comes to wrinkles the only way to play it is no mercy!

Beauty Steal: Victoria's Secret Liquid Liner Pen!

2009-05-27T20:56:00.000-07:00

I was almost ecstatic when I got home tonight to find a package from Victoria's Secret sitting on my step. Last week I ordered a Very Sexy liquid liner pen (normally $12 but on sale now for $5.99!) and I couldn't wait for it to arrive.

After trying my mom's ck Calvin Klein Electric Edge Liquid Eyeliner Marker Pen (what a mouthful!), I became mildly obsessed with the idea of a felt-tip marker as an eye liner pen. Simpler than regular liquid liner to put on, but sexier and more precise than a regular eye pencil, it is the best of both worlds!

While I was scoping out bathing suits at Victoriassecret.com, a quick look in the sale section revealed one very sexy liquid liner pen that is (as far as I can tell) identical to my mom's Calvin Klein Pen, at about 1/3 of the price.

After receiving and actually trying the product, it is as good, if not better than the Calvin Klein version ($18 at Sephora.com) the line is very thin and precise and barely smudges. It is perfect for creating that doe-eyed pin-up look! Pair this with Benefit's BADgal lash mascara and a sexy shadow duo such as Too Faced EyeShadow Duo which combines a darker, defining shade with a shimmery highlighter at S ephora .com.

Laura Mercier Face Polish

2009-05-25T20:11:00.000-07:00

Going through my favorites on my Sephora Beauty Insider profile, I noticed that I had starred Laura Mercier Face Polish as well as Kate Somerville Exfolikate. Having recently used both of these products, I can now safely eliminate one from my wish list!

People say that first impressions are also the most lasting impressions, and with these two products that is definitely the case. Just price and quantity alone put Laura Mercier Face Polish far ahead of Exfolikate. At $30 for 3.5 ounces at Sephora.com, Laura Mercier Face Polish gives twice the amount of product for less than half the price of Exfolikate ($85 for 1.7 ounces)!

After using Exfolikate, it is obvious it is a high quality product made with some great ingredients such as fruit enzymes, but I am sorry to say that the results are just not worth the high price tag! It did help some of the "time-of-the-month" break-outs I had dry out, but the overall quality of my skin was not improved very drastically. Most importantly, the results of this product only lasted for a few hours. I didn't see any long term benefits that lasted after the immediate usage of the product.

To seal the deal, Laura Mercier Face Polish is the best facial scrub I have ever used, period. My skin has never been so soft! It is called a polish as opposed to a scrub and it really does feel as if I am polishing my skin, making it soft, fresh, and new. Just using this product twice a week I have seen a difference in the clarity and feel of my skin. My skin feels more supple even on days when I don't use it, and many of the tiny scars left by past blemishes have started to fade away. The reasonable price just seals the deal, I dare anyone to find a better exfoliator at a lower price!

Memorial Day Weekend

2009-05-24T11:57:00.000-07:00

While it has been a slow few days as far as beauty and fashion in the world of iCandy, it has been a time filled with family and fun! With work and school and blogging, I know better than everyone how hard it is to keep up with friends and family as much as I would like, but take advantage of the holiday and go see, or even just talk to someone who has fallen by the wayside because of a hectic work schedule. If there is anything I have learned, it's that when it comes to good friends and family, it's never too late to call and say hello or I love you! Living in this big glamorous city, (or even if you live in a small, nameless town) a good friend is one of the hardest things to come by, so make sure you show the ones you have how much they mean to you (and maybe score some sweet beauty tips to report back here!).
Have a beautiful memorial day weekend, and remember, it is better to feel good than to look good (but just barely)!
love,
iCandy

Wanted: Reader Review!

2009-05-19T12:01:00.000-07:00

Has anyone tried this? I am always generally satisfied with Rimmel London products, they have great lipglosses and eyeshadows, but this sounds a little too good to be true. I would love to hear your experience! E-mail me at iCandy.faceaholic@gmail.com.

Pacifica

2009-05-19T10:07:00.000-07:00

Today I want to spotlight not just a product, but a brand. Recently Pacifica has found it's way to Sephora. I have been purchasing Pacifica products from my local Whole Foods for about a year now, for myself and also as gifts, and while I admit at first the price tag put me off, it is a small price to pay for a lotion that is free of parabens, sulfates, and all that other weird stuff you can't pronounce that is normally in lotion.
While some people say there isn't enough evidence to prove parabens are harmful, I say why take the chance when there are plenty of lovely natural products you can take home instead? And we all know summer is right around the corner (I can feel the hot breath on my neck) and you're going to need lots of lotion to keep up that tan, so why not make it something natural and healthy (and did I mention they smell amazing)! With scents like Bali Lime Papaya and Malibu Lemon Blossom, how could anyone resist?

makeupandbeautyblog.com

2009-05-18T10:20:00.000-07:00

Although you probably can't tell, I actually love to read and listen as much as I love to write and talk (I know, right, crazy!). So yesterday I came across something at makeupandbeautyblog.com, that I just have to share! The post is called 21 skin care tips (you can link to it from the title or from the picture at the top). If you're like me, or most women, your skin isn't perfect (sadly!), but what most of us don't know is how our lives and our habits are affecting our skin, not just what we wash our face with. I love this post because the tips are great, and it's not just about preventing blemishes and aging, but also about erasing the scars and damages that have already been done!
What I like most are the videos and links that provide even more information! So don't stress about those mini-wrinkles or those acne scars, or even that tell-tale pms pimple, because there is always something you can do, and let's face it, stress is the most damaging thing to our skin and our lives!

My Favorite Mascara!

2009-05-15T11:25:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but I always seem to have a problem with my mascara. It's clumpy, it turns my eyelashes into spikes, it gets all over my eyelids, but after trying this benefit mascara as a sample from Sephora, all of my troubles evaporated and I finally lost those last ten pounds. Just kidding, but it is the most amazing mascara I have ever used! The brush itself does most of the work, which is the secret, I have found, and the mascara itself doesn't stick or clump but makes my lashes look thicker and longer. I have tried everything from department store mascaras, to revlon and maybelline and target brand mascara and this is the best so far. Granted, I still haven't tried cult fave DiorShow (feel free to comment if you have), but this is great value for the price, $19, and it is perfect for that doe-eyed pin-up, "who me?" look as well as the sultry, vampy, smoky, "oh yes, me!" look. You know what I'm talking about ladies.

The Mean Reds

2009-05-15T11:20:00.000-07:00

"...the blues are because you're getting fat or because it's been raining too long. You're just sad, that's all. The mean reds are horrible. Suddenly you're afraid and you don't know what you're afraid of." -Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany's.

Ann Taylor?

2009-05-03T08:49:00.000-07:00

During one of my endless web-surfing pretend-shopping extravaganzas, I discovered what is now AnnTaylor.com. Now, I know what you're thinking, Ann Taylor as in my mom used to shop there? As in boring, stuffy clothes? It turns out Ann Taylor has had a major makeover! She is now the epitome of chic. From the sassy but relaxed boyfriend jacket to their new looks for spring, I think I might have found a new obsession. In fact, knowing me I definitely have found a new obsession. While some of their clothes are a bit pricey for the average jane, there is no shame in scouring the sale rack and keep in mind, you really do get what you pay for!

Polyvore

2009-04-29T21:59:00.000-07:00

Spring Fever by face-a-holic.blogspot.com featuring Current/Elliott jackets

Already thinking about all those sassy summer clothes you are dying to have but could NEVER afford? So am I! At polyvore.com you can still play with all the fun trends for summer even if you can't afford to buy them. I'm already addicted and the pic above is my first set. Don't make me play alone! Join and make your own!

Help Lindsay Find Love!

2009-04-28T10:12:00.000-07:00

Who hasn't thought, what is wrong with Lindsay Lohan? I would say I am mostly celebrity-sympathetic and I am slow to believe most of the outrageous rumors that are spread daily on the web and in magazines, but it has been hard to watch what looks like the slow demise of Lindsay's career and sanity. When I stumbled upon this video at funnyordie.com, I was ecstatic! The girl has a sense of humor, and I love it. I have to admit I am a die-hard Lindsay fan, from Parent Trap all the way to Mean Girls and Georgia Rule, and this video makes me love her even more. Sure she has her problems, but don't we all? How many of you would be able to jokingly ridicule yourself like that?

Ideeli: The first invite-only shopping community

2009-04-24T21:11:00.001-07:00

Do you ever wonder what happens to all those thousand dollar shoes and bags that don't get bought? I mean, they certainly can't sell all of them, can they? Well, either way, ideeli is an invite-only shopping experience where you get exclusive access to giveaways and designer sales. I know, it sounds too good to be true. If only someone would invite you... Oh wait, I can! So here is your official invitation! Please join me at ideeli and never pay full-price again! Just click HERE or paste www.ideeli.com/invite/iCandy into your nav bar!
If you are reading this, first of all thank you for visiting my blog! and just leave me some feedback, I would love to hear from you!

Guilty Pleasure Beach Read!

2009-04-17T22:49:00.000-07:00

I have to confess that once and a while even I get tired of reading fashion and beauty magazines (I know, it's just ludicrous!). On one such kick, I picked this book, The Little Lady Agency, up from the store when I was craving a flirty, fantasy, girly read. On page one I met Melissa, a curvy, smart, English beauty who is too nice for her own good but is the quintessential "every-girl" that anyone can relate to. Along with meeting Melissa's crazier-than-yours family and her friends, we meet her alter-ego, Honey, and her high-powered American crush, Jonathon.
Once I started reading it, I couldn't wait for a free moment to read more of this adorable novel (on my lunchbreak, on the treadmill, at 1 in the morning)! Even better, there are two more installments to The Little Lady Agency series, The Little Lady Agency in the Big Apple, and The Little Lady Agency and The Prince. These books and their predecessor are a great read for whenever you feel the need to step out of your life and into someone else's for a little while. And if that other person is a lovable, funny English brunette with an appetite and a fiery, sexy alter-ego, then what's not to love?

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2009-04-14T12:21:00.001-07:00

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Body by Glamour

2009-04-14T09:41:00.000-07:00

After almost having a heart-attack in the grocery store when I saw who was on the cover of Glamour magazine this month (It's Miley!) I was even more excited after reading about Glamour's new online health and weight loss tool, Body By Glamour. With weight loss and exercise pros like Jillian Micheals (Her 30 day shred video changed the entire way I work out!) and celebrity trainer Ramona Braganza (Helped Jessica Alba lose the baby weight), it's impossible not to benefit from this amazing program. I was also impressed by their free (yes, free!) MP3 downloadable workouts (finally put that new ipod to good use!). And for those who prefer the visual instruction of a video, download videos at exercisetv.tv ranging from $0 to $5.00. I joined Body By Glamour today as a pre-summer resolution, and I resolve to stick to the food and exercise log. Join and follow me on Glamour.com!
Speaking of swimsuits, this month's Glamour has tons and tons of pics of the most gorgeous (and figure flattering! Really, it does!) swimsuits, featuring celebrities and real women, and a beautiful spread with Crystal Renn (check out her profile on nymag.com).