Plus Size Wedding Dresses: Dress Review

Spring has sprung among us fast! That means weddings are underway! Being a plus size bride can seem to be a challenge. Only because you’re making it that way. Finding a dress for any size woman is complicated. You are shopping for your WEDDING DRESS; it is not going to be easy. Your wedding dress carries so much sentimental value, so everyone searching for thee best dress for thee best day in their life finds it to be a challenge.

There is of course, the obstacle of wedding shops having limited amounts of plus size dresses available to try on. That is obviously a pain, and this is something that will be discussed more in depth in a later blog. But for now, I will review the following styles that are available at David’s Bridal.

I have had the opportunity to try on a few of their recently released and popular styles. People often look down on David’s Bridal dresses, I am assuming this is because they are economically priced and all over; however, David’s Bridal has exclusive brands and beautiful modern and couture style dresses.

Dress #1 I have never been a fan of trumpet style wedding dresses. Looking at the pictures, I’m sure you see why. It’s not just because trumpet style dresses are not very flattering on me, but because trumpets look more like a prom dress and suitable for a very fancy occasion rather than a wedding dress. This is only my opinion.

What is nice about this dress is that it is very flattering in the bust and waist. The sweet heart neckline sculpts the bust nicely, and the belt helps to break up the bust from the waist drawing negative attention away from the bust. Lace is often associated with grandma dresses; however, the lace on this gown is soft and subtle. Too many times we see plus sized ladies in thick satin dresses. Sometimes satin dresses are beautiful, but too many times on full figured women the satin dresses make the women look even thicker and adds bulkiness to the appearance. Lace dresses, such as this one, will not add any bulkiness to your appearance. This dress was also comfortable, which is important. 😉

For those seeking a trumpet style dress and are busty, I highly suggest the skirt be full like this one. Better yet, a skirt fuller than this one is even better.

Style # 9V3680
Style # 9V3680

Dress #2 Princess Tiana would approve of this dress, especially if it was green. This is a true princess dress (ball gown). I definitely felt like one while I was in it. What I love about this dress is all that it contains. It has lace, organza, beautiful bead work, and layers of ruffles. The neckline is a slight sweet heart. Which draws positive attention to the bust. Because it is a slight sweet heart it minimizes the appearance of the bust. The skirt begins right above the hips. This creates and establishes curves, which draws the waist in. This style dress looks great on fuller busted women. Despite being heavy op top, the bottom containing a full skirt helps to balance it out. This style dress will also look great on women who are apple (barrel) shaped. The full skirt hides the slim hips and tummy.

Style #8CWG568
Style #8CWG568
Style #8CWG568
Style #8CWG568
Style #8CWG568
Style #8CWG568

This Oleg Cassini is beautiful with or without a sash. I love the soft touch of color added to a wedding gown. A sash is a great way to add personal touches and a way to make a dress your own. You can always do this by creating something of your own, buying one from the store, or maybe even using something borrowed or old from a special loved one.

Dress #3 What I love most about this wedding dress is that it is simple yet gorgeous! The beauty of it is the simplicity and dab of sparkle. Drop waist gowns have always been my favorite. You’re able to have a drop waist in many ways: simple, layers, ball gown, sparkly, etc. This gown has an asymmetrical skirt with a few pleats, very tasteful in style. The sash is added to it, which assist with breaking up the waist and bust. The neckline is subtle and sweet. Perfect gown for those who want to look fabulous, but not over the top. I highly recommend this style dress for pear shapes and hour glass figures.

Notice the two different sashes. One is chunky and the other is thin. Just like the ball gown, you can add many different types of sashes to this dress. That is one of the benefits to a simple dress.

I hope that this dress review of three different styles assist those of you searching for a dress. I suggest you try on the various styles so you’ll know which style looks best on you and which one you feel the most confident in.

I really miss helping ladies find their wedding dresses, but I am glad that I have the opportunity to share with you guys on my blog. If you have any questions or thoughts you would like to share please comment below.

Happy wedding dress shopping jewels!

How Happy Are You?

Way too much time is spent on finding happiness. Can it even be found, or does it already exist within us? Underneath the layers of toughness, kindness, and bearing it all, lies the individual with strong desires to be as happy as happy can be. Happy, just the thought of it cracks a little smile on your face. Makes you crave to be it. Make Happy a part of your day. Why is it that we throw happiness to the side? Why is happiness not vital to our lives?

Happiness means more than memorable moments. It is to be a part of our daily experiences. Sure, not every moment of each day will bring tender sweet memories, but it is in a human’s best interest to make attempts to be happy in most things. In addition to more happiness giving your life less negativity, it also takes away stress. When you come to that realization that the things you cannot change are literally out of your control, you’ll live a stress free and happier life. Thus, I tell myself, when things get uncomfortable, that I have to let go of and accept the things that I cannot change and have no control over. From there, I move on and go back to laughing and enjoying my day.

The world is already full of stressful things that we do not have any control over. Adding our personal issues to the platter does not help. Negativity and stress also take a toll on our health, making it more logical to strive for happiness daily.

I had a rough 2014; therefore, I refuse to allow my 2015 to be anything but EXCELLENT. In order for me to succeed in that goal I have to strive for happiness daily, no matter what. Not allowing people or situations to dictate my mood or take away my joy. My happiness matters, and yours should too!

My many Happy Faces! Be Happy Jewels, it's pretty on everyone! ;)
My many Happy Faces! Be Happy Jewels, it’s pretty on everyone! 😉

Think about this, “Happy” by Pharrell was the No. 1 Billboard song of 2014. People like to be Happy. So, be it!

Have a great weekend being Happy, Jewels!

Get Ready, Something Better is on It’s Way

Life has a way of throwing us off the course we have mapped out, or even more so out of our comfort zone. I am always telling God to lead me and direct my steps, well he is doing exactly that. A few months ago I thought I knew where I would be a year from now. WELL, little did I know God has been working on my behalf. We think we know everything about ourselves, including what is best for us, BUT GOD.

I do not want to go too deep into my personal life, but to give a little glimpse of it all just know that EVERYTHING happens for a reason. I just received the truth about some things. The information was very upsetting. I am appreciative of the truth, but as the old saying goes “the truth hurts”. While it hurt I was relieved. Crazy, I know. Hearing the truth was needed. Yes, it hurt, but now I know the truth and now I can move on. It doesn’t stop there though, I then, had to FORGIVE. See forgiveness is not for someone else, it is for ME. If I did not forgive I would be holding on to that, and trust me I do not want to hold on to anything that God does not want for me. You know why? Well, whatever God has planned for me is far better than what I wanted for myself. It’s very true. (Check out Oprah’s story). I hate to be repetitive, but I have to say it again, the things we have planned, the things that we think we want, the things that we feel and believe are best for us ARE NOT ALWAYS a part of the plan God has for us. Unfortunately, some have to learn this the hard way. That’s when the pain comes, and it hurts. BUT, knowing that God is for me, and he has something better in store for me COMFORTS MY SOUL! When he shuts one door best to believe that another door is being prepared to open that will be WONDERFUL.

Now that that is off of my chest. I shared this because I hope that it can help someone else who may feel like things are not working out in life the way that YOU planned. When we place God in control of our lives, everything will turn out beautifully, way better than you could ever imagine. Let God’s will be done in your life. Yes, it is going to hurt while you’re taken off the course you had planned, but when you align yourself with his will for you, the outcome is far BETTER.

When life throws us lemons, you don’t have to make lemonade. However, you need to know that better is yet to come. When one avenue shuts down take the other street. It means it’s time to travel down another road. Life is not over. Beside every door that shuts is a new door that is awaiting to be opened. Waiting for you to realize that the best is yet to come. Many times what we thought was gold God said was rags, and he is looking to turn our fake gold into sparkly diamonds. Diamonds are forever.

Babies know what it means to smile. They have no cares for anything in the world. They are full of joy, the way we should be. SMILE.
Babies know what it means to smile. They have no cares for anything in the world. They are full of joy, the way we should be. SMILE.

I can’t say it enough how important it is to move on and get ready for the best that is on it’s way to you. So the next time you are upset over the disappointments life brings your way, it’s ok to cry for a moment, but you better be getting ready for the best thing ever to come your way. When it comes to getting ready, that means taking more time out for you. Take time to travel, explore new things, meet new people, try new food, change up your routine, try a new exercise, write, start a blog (like I am doing); the list can go on and on. Getting ready also means, letting go and let God; really moving on from the unexpected route you had to take. You cannot move on if you’re still holding on to what God clearly has told you is not meant to be in your life. Don’t forget that you should also be spending time with God. Get in his word and see what he is saying to you. Let the word minister to your heart. You cannot go wrong with God. When we ask him to lead and direct our steps, he will. You have to be prepared for what those steps may be. He will certainly lead you the right way. Once more, when he leads us and takes us out of the places that may feel like a disappointment he is getting you ready for something far better than you could imagine. Trust God, he won’t lead you the wrong way, only up.

Smile Jewels, when disappointments come just know that they are a part of God’s plan for something better in your life.

THE BEST IS YET TO COME!

Plus Size Dress-Up: Simplicity This Holiday Season

Time has flown by so fast this year! It’s already Christmas! That means holiday parties galore. I decided this year to keep it simple. Simplicity is always in style, ESPECIALLY when you do not know how to dress for the occasion.

This outfit was simple but cute, and many people asked “why are you so dressed up”? Black jeans is

This is not the best picture, my apologies. I definitely need to invest in a quality camera.
This is not the best picture, my apologies. I definitely need to invest in a quality camera.

not dressed up! But as we all know, black is dressy. The outfit consist of black knee high boots, black jeans, black lace top, and the piece that tops off this look is the black and white jacket. The jacket is the star of this outfit. I think the black just helped to make me look dressy, but the jacket is what made this piece stick out.

While thinking of what to wear to the next holiday party, you may not have to pull out last year’s little black dress, you can wear the jeans you wore last week with a super cute top. Jackets always make things more fun. Even more so if you can get your hands on a funky fun jacket. There is so much more to an outfit than clothes, accessories. I added a headband and jewelry to mine. I feel naked without accessories. Headpieces are a great way to be festive!

 Where to find this outfit:

 The top came from New York & Co.; the jeans, boots,  headband, and  necklace were bought at Forever21; the  jacket was purchased at Dressbarn; and  the watch is from  Lane Bryant.

 Even though I am not wearing a dress, which is what I would have normally  worn, I still received many compliments. You do not always have to over do it  at a party. Keep it simple, smile, be yourself and you’ll always turn heads. 😉

 Please share your holiday styling tips below.

 Jewels, have a great time partying and be safe!

Today: Relax, Unwind, Have a Glass of Wine

It’s Saturday. My favorite day of the week. I’m sure it’s obvious why Saturday won that award. After a long and tiring week I like to use Saturday as MY DAY. Saturdays are when I can catch up on completing things on my “to do list”, shop, but most of all…RELAX, UNWIND, and HAVE A GLASS OF WINE. I do not always have that special glass, but I try to. A little wine never hurt anyone.

People stay busy, especially those who work throughout the week and the weekend. There is hardly any time for self. Humans have bodies, and our bodies require us to take good care of them in order for them to function properly. I have little to no time to do anything extra throughout week for me. I manage to workout at least three times a week, try to eat healthy 5 days out of the week, and the rest of the time I am doing whatever it takes to keep my sanity. So, yes, Saturday is MY DAY.

On a typical Saturday, I sleep in as long as possible. Then, I may run a few errands or get a massage. Upon entering the real world, where I had to work to eat. There is a new monthly ritual in my life, massages. They are so great! I feel like a new person walking out of the spa.

Next, I get my hair done, or do it myself. My hair stylist is amazing. I really think she has changed the texture of my hair, lol; is that even possible?

These two together, AMAZING RESULTS! This facial really tightens your pores. You feel it getting it tight on your skin that your face begins to pulsate. You will love this.
Bentonite clay & Apple Cider Vinegar. These two together, AMAZING RESULTS! There are many brands of both items. I found these two at whole foods. This facial really tightens your pores. You feel it getting it tight on your skin that your face begins to pulsate. You will love this.

Then, I give myself a facial. Oh yes, I wash my face every morning and night, but there is something about weekly exfoliation that I love. My face loves it too.

Lastly a mani and pedi, those cuticles are so important to keep up.

When it is all said and done, I sit back and watch some TV, do things for my job (I know I said it’s MY DAY, but I rather do it today that on Sunday Fun Day), and catch up with my people. I can’t tell you enough how important it is to take time out for you and relax.

Always remember, if you don't get to it today, there is ALWAYS tomorrow.
Always remember, if you don’t get to it today, there is ALWAYS tomorrow.

This past Thursday I had an anxiety attack at work. In the past, I have experienced upset stomach and irregular breathing, but that day the pain in my stomach was a feeling I had never experienced before. I left work early and slept for about 5 hours. I still had the pain throughout that day; however, I know that it was all because I carry everything on my shoulders, and I do way too much throughout the week. We are not super heroes, we CANNOT do it all. Take time for yourself, it just might save your life.

Take it easy Jewels. You are only one person, and you deserve a day of pampering yourself.

Remember, Relax, unwind, and have a glass of wine! 😉

Trials Make You Stronger

Hello My Lovely Jewels!

I have really missed blogging, writing in general. Life has a way of taking you away from the things you enjoying doing, if you let it.

The biggest part of my absence from blogging was finding a job (8 months of applying), and the other was personal. It seems as though I battled with one thing, conquered it, and then the next battle began. I was constantly asking God, when am I going to receive my break through and stay through. So I finally began working, then there was a big haul that came about in my personal life. Thankfully, God is on my side and I am coming through that storm a stronger person and on top. Through it all, I am grateful and blessed for where God has me. Through each storm I remind myself of that old saying, “If God be for me, who can be against me?”

ANYWAYS!!!!

So I must share about the job struggle. I graduated December 2013 with my bachelors, and ever since then I have been trying to find a job that would allow me to use my degree. I filled out at least 50 job applications, maybe more. Out of those applications I got an interview for 3 jobs. Just 3! Upon the third interview I still did not land the job (NOT RIGHT AWAY). It felt like eternity, but 4 weeks later I got a call saying I got the job,  if I STILL WANTED IT (of course I DID). The process for getting hired was long and a lot of steps (full of paper work).

Yep, that's me! LOL ;)
Yep, that’s me! LOL 😉

You’re probably wondering what job it is. It is one of the most rewarding, yet stressful, long day, take your work home, work on the weekend kind of jobs. I am a TEACHER!!!! I teach English at the high school level. Something I have always wanted to do, teach the youth. It was a long road, but worth it. I do not plan to teach forever, in fact probably not even a decade. Children are OUR future, and I want to be a part of helping them take advantage of all the wonderful opportunities they have to become thriving adults that will give back in some way later on.

Through everything we go through in life there is a lesson learned. This has been a rough year. Upon every situation that came up I would ask God “What good can POSSIBLY come out of this?” At the moment you do not believe that there is any GOOD that will come out the situation. With time, God reveals the good that is produced out of things that we see as calamity in our lives. We may not get it, or want to understand it because of the pain. But there is a reason for everything.

So the next time you are battling something, see it as the birth of something new. As the saying goes, “All things happen for a reason”. There is a lesson to be learned out of every experience we go through in life. You WILL come out of it STRONGER!

I once was down with a frown, BUT today I smile letting my light shine! BE HAPPY!
I once was down with a frown, BUT today I smile letting my light shine! BE HAPPY!

I am back, and I hope to never stay away this long again. I have new goals, for blogging, that I plan to begin implementing soon.

I’d love to hear how you may have been waiting for something for a long time, and how it was when you finally received it. Please share by leaving a comment below. Have a WONDERFUL DAY JEWELS!

Ball Gowns on Plus Size Women

beautiful-engagement-ring-wallpapers

It’s the first of the year and many women are beginning to plan their weddings that are this year. Very very exciting! Everyone knows that the biggest thing about a wedding is THEE DRESS!!! It is so important to find the perfect dress. As someone that works in the bridal industry, I know what it means to find the right dress. You’ve found Mr. Right, now you have to find the right wedding gown. The search can be very intense. Many women have no idea what they are looking for. Some women do. But, today its all about the gorgeous ball gowns.

dresses_549-chiffon-white-1_2Love how this shows off a great figure!

I have tried on wedding dresses before; however, today I was told to try on a ball gown. The store I was at, had just received a new ball gown in plus size. The minute I walked in the manager requested that someone of my stature try on this dress. I agreed to do it. I have always known that whenever I get married that I would get a ball gown dress. Trying on this dress confirmed it! I loved everything about the fit.(I would post a picture; however, this dress could be the one I go back for whenever my time comes, lol. So I don’t want everyone to see it.) Bottom line, this dress, even if it is not my wedding dress, has made me a fan of ball gowns.

plus_size_ball_gown_v_neck_court_train_satin_wedding_dress_with_beading_4111_1This style truly brings the waist in, making it appear to be small.

Many brides have told me that they do not want a ball gown because they want to show off their figure in a mermaid or trumpet dress. Ball gowns show off shape too. I am very busty, I have a proportionate waist, and proportionate hips. The ball gown dress made it seem as though I had an hourglass figure. Because of the size of my breast I naturally have a small waist. But my hips are not very wide. So with the ball gown on, my breast are nice and perky, lol, my waist looks AMAZING, and no one knows if I have wide hips or hips proportionate to my body. Talk about the perfect figure!

romantic-organza-sweetheart-court-train-ball-gown-plus-size-wedding-gown-with-ruffles_2013060537The ruffles are so fun!

On top of all of this, the ball gown dress that I tried on had ruffles. The layers of ruffles made the skirt very full. And boy, was the skirt fun to play with and twirl in. I do not see how anyone can pass up a fun dress, such as a ball gown, to wear something fitted to your body just to show off a figure. Why not have both? Now, I am not against mermaids, but I must say that more people need to give ball gowns a chance. EVERYONE these days are wearing mermaids. Think about it like this, “Do you honestly want to wear the same style dress as everyone else, on YOUR big day?” I know that  I don’t want to, and no one should. Also, keep in mind that not everyone can wear a mermaid style dress, and like wise with ball gowns. You must find the style that suits your body shape. You want to look your best on your wedding day. Do not settle with looking okay; just because everyone else is wearing a certain style, does not mean it is for you.

dresses_551-organza-white-1_2Figure flattering!

All in all, I think everyone should try on at least one ball gown on before deciding it is not the style for them. The cut of it, truly makes a woman look amazing, especially a full figured, curvy woman.

If you have questions about wedding dresses just leave a comment below.

Best wishes to those searching for THE RIGHT DRESS!

Favorites of 2013!

Hello Jewels, HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! I’m so thankful to have made it to 2014! A lot has happened since my last post; the biggest of all that happened was graduating from college! YAY!!! So besides that being my uttermost FAVORITE thing of 2013, I have several others. I must say that it is mostly make-up, because I LOVE MAKEUP. I love everything about makeup, no one could get close to convincing me that it is bad or not needed. There are other things within my favorites, but makeup consumes most of my list. Here we go.

Watt’s Up by Benefit

17. First on the list is this highlighter by Benefit; it is called “Watt’s Up!”. I like this product because it gives a natural glow to your face. The application is even better! It rolls onto your skin so this allows for easy application above and on your brown bone, cheek bone, and the bridge of your nose. This color looks great on all complexions. With this product, a little goes a long way. So if you use it moderately it should last you a while. You can purchase this item at Ulta or Sephora for about $30.

pBBW1-12774709v275Marshmallow Creme by Bath and Body Works

16. As the year progressed I got away from wearing lip gloss, and started wearing lip sticks, especially matte ones. But for my birthday someone bought me a lip gloss from Bath and Body Works, that I really like! I like “Marshmallow Creme” due to the fact that it has a great smell, and that it is clear and glittery. Sometimes I wear this alone or on top of a lipstick to add shimmer and gloss. You can find this lip gloss at Bath and Body Works for about $7.50.

Lorac-PRO-To-Go-Eye-Cheek-Palette-Summer-2013Lorac Pro To Go

15. I recently purchased this new fav of mine before going on Christmas vacation. I have not created many looks with it, but I just know the possibilities are endless. The Lorac Pro To Go palette is so awesome! This palette is great for eyes and face! The colors that are provided will work for every complexion. It is quite the versatile palette that you need when you are on the go! This fab palette can be found at Ulta for about $39.

screen_shot_2013_07_19_at_10_23_49_amTrue Gold by bareMinerals

14. I wanted to do a glittery gold smokey eye for graduation so I went in Sephora; and after the wonderful sales lady had shown me all of the gold eye shadows that I already had, she brought me one that she herself knew I would not be able to resist. This bareMinerals eye color “True Gold” is just like Real Gold. It sparkles and it goes on with so much pigment. I love it, and I recommend this to everyone! It is a must have for your makeup collection. This product can be purchased at Sephora and Ulta for  about $14.

macravishing__09348Ravishing by Mac

13. I love how Mac gives a free lipstick for every six empty containers you bring in. This is how I get most of my Mac lipsticks. This time I did not know what color to get because I have so many pinks and reds as it is; so the mua at Mac told me to try a peachy color. I fell for the first one I tried on, “Ravishing”. It is a peachy pink creme sheen lip stick. I get many many complements when I wear this lipstick with a nude eye. This can be purchased at Mac for about $15.

s1480029-main-LheroStar Dust by Sephora

12. This highlighter is not as natural looking as “Watt’s Up!” but it is gorgeous! This highlighter is called “Star Dust” by Sephora, it is often compared to Nars Albatross. However, I have not tried it yet, so I cannot tell you for sure if it is anything like it. It provides the perfect highlight. The same goes for this highlight, as the one by Benefit, a little goes a long way, so do not be heavy handed when applying it. This can be purchased at Sephora for about $14.

neutrogenawavesonicNeutrogena Sonic Wave

11. Everyone is purchasing some kind of Clarisonic. Well, with all that I had going on this year, I had no extra money to purchase a $200 device just to wash my face. So I tried the Neutrogena Sonic Wave. I really like this thing. My face feels like it has been cleaned, and I can see a difference after one use. My skin appears brighter and healthier. I definitely recommend this to someone who wants a deep cleanse on their face. I purchased mine from Walmart for about $13, but I am sure this is available at many drug stores.

dressbarn logo

10. I am pretty sure I have mentioned Dress Barn in one of my blogs before, but Dress Barn has been a dependable store for me to shop at. Whenever, I have tried other places, Dress Barn never fails. They carry beautiful clothing for plus size women and misses. The prices are fair for what the clothing is worth. I have dresses from Dress Barn that I have had for years; and they still look brand new. I bought the dress I wore to graduation from Dress Barn. This is an all time favorite place for me to shop.

mac217MAC 217

9. I wear a smokey eye just about every day to work. I don’t know what it is about that look, but I love it. To perfect this look daily I use my Mac 217 brush for the crease. This brush works like a charm. It will never fail you. This is a brush that every person into makeup should own. This brush is about $25 at Mac.

mac-small-eye-shadow-brown-script-oBrown Script by MAC

8. Along with that brush I use this eye shadow just about everyday, “Brown Script”. This is another item that I recommend everyone gets for their makeup collection. It goes perfectly with whatever look you create. “Brown Script” can be purchased at Mac for about $15.

img-thing (1)Stockholm by NYX

7. Whenever I do not know what lip color to wear I reach for “Stockholm” by NYX. This color is so pretty and nude! Plus, it’s a matte and it stays on forever. It goes with every eye look and looks great with any complexion. This can be found at Ulta for about $6.

spin_prod_818878912Sangria by Milani

6. As fall progressed, I had to get a dark colored lipstick. I found this one at Walmart, at random. “Sangria” by Milani is a must have folks! I get so many complements on this lipstick. It never fails. Every time I wear it, someone mentions how pretty it is. I know this is a must have because every time I go to Walmart to purchase another one, the row is empty. Get your hands on it, while you can. This can be found at Walmart, and probably drug stores for about $5.

images (1)Shocking Pink by NYX

5. Along with “Sangria” I got just the same amount of complements on “Shocking Pink” by NYX. This beautiful lipstick is matte. I love matte lipstick. It is so vibrant. It is a bold color, so be prepared to be wowed when you put it on. This is a must try. This can be found at Ulta for about $6.

forever-21-4

4. Forever 21 has always been my go to store. I shop there every time I go shopping. It definitely is my favorite store. I love this store because it is a one stop shop. You can get clothing, shoes, jewelry, and a handbag in one place. I love that many stores are now carrying Forever21+ so now I do not have to limit myself to online shopping, I can go in a store.

Sephora-Primal-Instincts-Eyeshadow-PalettePrimal Instincts by Sephora

3. For the most part, I rush in everything that I do, unless it’s a date. So I have my go to palette that I have been using since January of 2013, and it does not even look like I placed a dent in it. It is the “Primal Instincts” palette by Sephora. It is mostly nudes some shimmery and matte ones. Along with two purple eye shadows. I use this everyday! Love it! Must have for your makeup collection.  This can be purchased at Sephora for about $30.

waterproof_eyeliner_pencilNYC 922 Dark Brown Brow/ Eyeliner Pencil

2. Every woman knows that brows are a BIG DEAL! I mean big! So of course I do my eye brows daily. I have tried everything from Mac to drugstore. Guess what? Drug store won, well Target did. I say this because I do not know if this can be purchased outside of Target. I have tried everywhere, and only one Target always has it. It is so cheap I buy everyone that they have. This eye brow pencil is quite waxy so I always sharpen it before each use, because too much wax can look DANGEROUS! The best thing about this pencil by NYC is that it is $0.94. If you already have a brow pencil you love, just give this one a try. It is too cheap not to give it a chance. I still love Mac’s spiked.

1168958_fpxThey’re Real Mascara by Benefit

1. Besides brows being what I dress up everyday, I also have to do my lashes. The only time I wore falsies during 2013 was for my friends wedding. Other than that, I am all natural, and my makeup still looks fab. Of course, if a major event comes up like a wedding then yes I’ll wear them, but my natural lashes are a nice length to work with. Plus, “They’re Real” by Benefit is the best mascara in the world! It makes your lashes pop out even more so! Please try this, you won’t be sorry. This can be purchased from Sephora or Ulta for about $10.

I know this was a lot. But, I hope this is beneficial to some of you. Let me know if you have tried any of these products, and what your thoughts are on them.

Hope all of you have a blessed, prosperous, and healthy 2014!

Fragrance Review: Viva la Juicy, Acqua di Gioia, Gucci Guilty, and Honey by Marc Jacobs

Hello Jewels, I celebrated my birthday yesterday, YAY!!! Very blessed to live another year. I received awesome gifts for my birthday.I like birthday gifts way more than Christmas gifts. My boyfriend always ask me what do I want for my birthday. Since I was running out of perfume, I requested perfume. I was torn between two, so I suggested that he would pick out the one he would like me to wear. I have a wonderful wonderful boyfriend, he bought BOTH! Last year I was only expecting make up brushes, and he had also got me two perfume sets. So he is AMAZING. I am pretty much to the bottom of the perfumes I got last year for my birthday. I figured I would do a review on the four perfumes.

First up, Viva La Juicy by Juicy Couture, I like this perfume a lot probably because of the bottle and the big pink bow. Pink is my favorite color. This perfume has a sweet side and strong side to it. To me, it is the perfect combination of sweet and sassy. For a while, it was my everyday perfume, until I noticed the perfume getting lower and lower. I am someone who likes to be identified by their perfume. Therefore, I try not to change up perfumes throughout the year. I try to stick to the same one daily. I just think it is so lady like to have a signature fragrance. 

However, on those special event days I do like to change things up and wear something different, and that is when I would wear Giorgio Armani’s Acqua di Gioia fragrance. It is very crisp and soft. If you mist on a lot it can be loud, but mostly a soft perfume. This fragrance is more on the romantic side. By the way, this one and Viva la Juicy were both picked out by my boyfriend last year; he did a GREAT job! I always say, “You can never go wrong when your man buys you the perfume of his choice for you.” 😉 Both of these perfumes last a while, like four to seven hours.

I have been wanting Gucci Guilty by Gucci for the longest. When I would think about getting it, I failed to pursue and actually  buy it. I finally own it, and I am so happy! Gucci Guilty is everything I want in a perfume; it is woody (like Twilight Woods at Bath & Body Works), musty, and sexy. The musty smell does not over power the perfume. The perfume is very feminine, but the perfume contains elements of must. This will not be an everyday perfume, but rather date nights and special occasions. So for those of you who like to smell sexy, you should try Gucci Guilty.

Lastly, Honey by Marc Jacobs is so sweet and pretty. It’s really pretty; the bottle is adorable. It looks like a friendly honey bee. The reason I was torn between this and Guilty is because they are so different. I could not decide if I wanted sweet or sexy. Honey smells very sweet like honey. The fragrance reminds me of summer. I will probably wear this fragrance daily, because it is not loud, just sweet.

Well Jewels, I hope this perfume review is helpful. If you have tried any of these I would like to hear your thoughts about them. 😉

BH Cosmetics: Review of Party Girl Palette

We are soon to be in the party and holiday season of the year. This is my favorite time of the year. Not just because of Christmas gifts, but during the holidays there are parties and family gatherings, which means you get to dress up. Dressing up is fun! You get to wear a cute outfit, new shoes, a new hair do, and MAKEUP!!!! Make up can be very expensive, and during the holidays you do not want to wear the same makeup look to every function. To help save money on a ton of eye shadows, you may want to consider purchasing an eye shadow palette. Palettes are high, but definitely worth it. A cheap alternative is BH Cosmetics. Everyone has been talking about BH Cosmetics, and how awesome and cheap their products are. I have known about BH Cosmetics for a little over a year now. I hate to try new things without being able to test it first. Considering that it is online only, I have no way of knowing what the product will be like until I purchase it. I was very skeptical about purchasing from them, but after reading the reviews on their website; and watching reviews and demos on YouTube, I thought I would give BH Cosmetics a chance.

BH PARTY GIRL PALETTEBH Party Girl Palette

So early September I made my first purchase. I purchased the Party Girl Palette. When the item arrived, of course I could not wait to swatch the eye shadows. I was impressed with the swatches. The next day I did a look using the palette. I put on primer first, then applied the eye shadow. I am not lying when I tell you guys that I had to go over the shadows like four or five times, until I was satisfied. I never had to do that before with an eye shadow, except for the really cheap ones. I was very disappointed after that. The swatches were deceiving. They made me believe that the product was well pigmented. The reviewers online said that it was. A few people said it wasn’t, but I figured they had really high expectations of this cheap product. However, when I tried it, I saw what they  meant.

There are a few colors that work well the first two times of applying them, but for the most part, I am disappointed. The only reason I am so disappointed is because everyone talked about BH Cosmetics eye shadows like they were comparable to MAC eye shadows; just way cheaper. For the price you pay, I only payed $9 plus shipping, the palette is not bad, it is definitely worth the price. HOWEVER, do not have high expectations of the product, especially if you are someone that buys high end makeup.

I am not dissing their product. I still wear it, but I have to do more when I use this product, than my usual eye shadows. So, here is what you do for the best outcome, the first time you apply BH eye shadows. First, prime your eyes; any primer is good, I use Urban Decay’s primer “Eden”. Then, use NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in “Milk” (white) as a base. If you plan to use your shadows on or near your water line, apply “Milk” there as well, as a base. Finally, apply the eye shadows. This makes the colors pop and look well pigmented. They also last a while too. One thing that is for sure great about this palette is that the shadows do not fall. Once I apply them, they stay on my eyes, I do not have to worry about wiping under my eyes every few minutes.

NYX Jumbo Pencil in "Milk"
NYX Jumbo Pencil in “Milk”

Do I recommend this product? It depends. If you like to apply your eye shadows without having to put on a primer or base, then this product is not for you. If you do not mind doing the extra steps to achieve high pigmentation, then you will enjoy your BH Cosmetics palettes.

So Jewels, while you are preparing and shopping for your holiday gear, think about purchasing the PARTY GIRL PALETTE by BH COSMETICS. This palette contains every color you would need to create the perfect holiday look, at a low price. Here is a coupon code that is valid until November 25, 2013 to get 10% off at bhcosmetics.com; the code is RMENOT.

Many of you have probably already purchased eye shadow palettes from BH Cosmetics, please share what you think of them.

Have fun playing with makeup!