Wet N' Wild Pro Brush Collection for Holiday 2017

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Friends, I have absolutely no reason to add more makeup brushes to my collection. And yet, this new set from Wet N' Wild for the holidays was so darn pretty and such a ridiculous value, I couldn't resist picking it up to review for you. The new Wet N' Wild Pro Brush Collection contains 10 beautiful, cruelty-free brushes for only $30, and contains just about everything you need to create a complete makeup look. Having used them now for a couple of weeks I'm finally ready to report back and let you know what I think! So let's jump into things and I'll show you exactly what's in this set.

Drybar Hair We Go Travel Blowout Set Review

It doesn't take a very long time after meeting me to find out that I have a mild obsession with savvy shopping. Seriously. Getting a bargain is basically my version of thrill seeking. And of course, my excitement for finding a sale is something that can't be contained. The first thing I want to do after an epic couponing conquest is to go tell the rest of the world how to do the same. After all, when you work hard for your money, why would you not want to save as much of it as possible when purchasing the things you need or want?

And thus, here I am to tell you a tale of how I scored this adorable little set from Drybar for a ridiculously low price, and whether or not I think its worth the original price tag.

MODA Prismatic Face Perfecting Kit Review

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Considering today is Valentine's Day, I thought it might be fun to tell you a love story. Once upon a time I was scrolling through my Instagram feed, idly double tapping through the endless parade of pretty pictures when something stopped me in my tracks. Now, I have absolutely no idea how many makeup brushes I own (spoiler, its a lot), or that I've made googley-eyes at over the years, but these...these were different. These brushes were jewel-toned, ombred little pieces of art, and I knew right then and there that I needed to have them in my life. My heart was even happier to find out that they were part of Royal & Langnickel's MODA collection, a super affordable yet quality brush brand that's sold online or in Walmart stores. Not only was this wonderful news for my wallet, but I also knew that the brand would be part of Generation Beauty LA, and would possibly have them for sale. Much to my delight they had a very limited stock at their booth, and this beautifully little set flew home with me that weekend.

Of course, when it comes to love at first sight I've always been a bit of a skeptic. Attraction at first sight, sure. But love is one of those things you have to build over time as you get to know one another. And so there's always a little piece of me when going on a first date that fears I'm going to suffer the fate of getting super hyped over how cute someone is, only to be let down by how boring, arrogant, or generally jerky they turn out to be. No one likes being disappointed, be it be by a potential SO, or their makeup brushes, and I was feeling extra trepidatious as I pulled this set out of the packaging. Would all that hype be for nothing? Or would this be the start of a beautiful relationship?

Makeup Revolution Iconic Nudes Brush Collection

Friends, let's take a moment for the appreciation of pretty.

I have been head-over-heels in love with this new Limited Edition brush set from Makeup Revolution since the moment I laid eyes on it. And really, how could I not? The combination of cream, pink, and rose gold speaks to my girlie-girl heart. Honestly, the only thing that's better than a beautiful set of makeup brushes is a beautiful set of makeup brushes that wont cost me an arm and a leg, and this one meets both qualifications.

Now, if you've been reading my blog for any length of time you're already well aware that my love for Makeup Revolution is strong. As far as affordable cosmetics go, they're consistently on point in terms of both packaging and quality, and have become one of my top recommendations for anyone shopping on a budget. Unfortunately Makeup Revolution originated over in the UK, and only a limited selection of their line is available at Ulta stores here in the states. While I can't complain that I can at least get my hands on some of their products, the one thing I've been dying to try are their brushes. They've got some incredible looking dupes for the Artis and Real Techniques Bold Metals brushes that are constantly calling my name.

I don't know what my problem is with paying for shipping, but it kind of kills me to tack on an extra $15 or $20 in fees to a beauty order. Alas, its almost a given when ordering internationally, which means that I figured I'd have to add shopping MR brushes to my London bucket list. But then, a miracle happened! One of my lovely beauty enthusiast friends studying abroad overseas was kind enough to scope out this set and send it my way! Seriously guys, I was overjoyed. It was even prettier than some of the permanent collection sets I had my eye on. Let tell you more about it!

All That Glitters: IT Cosmetics for Ulta Brush Set Review

I know what you're thinking.

"Really, Lauren? You're busting out the Christmas decorations already?" Trust me, I get it. It's a little crazy to start talking about the holidays when we haven't even gotten to Halloween yet, but before you give me the side-eye, I PROMISE you'll be happy to have the heads up on this one!

A few weeks ago when I was at Gen Beauty the awesome people over at IT Cosmetics gave me this new Ulta Exclusive brush set to check out before it launched online. Truth be told, I've been lusting after their brushes for years, and the only thing that's kept me from splurging on a set is sheer willpower. My rational brain knows I already own enough makeup brushes, but my beauty-brain is never satisfied. I want to try them all...ALL THE BRUSHES ARE BELONG TO ME (#nerdreference).

ANYWAY, this stunning set is finally available for purchase on the Ulta website, so I wanted to give you guys my thoughts in case you'd like to add it to your holiday shopping list (or wish list...you know I won't judge).

Kat Von D Lock-It Vox Box Review

Friends, when you're a beauty junkie like myself, there's nothing quite like the promise of new makeup to lift your spirits. A few weeks back I was having one of those epically frustrating, overly-stressed work days that can send even the most chipper of individuals into an existential crisis. Every minute closer to 5:00 seems longer than the last, until the span of time between 3:00 and 3:07 feels like an hour. Suddenly, my phone makes a little ping. An e-mail! Even if its nothing interesting, it's still a welcome distraction from the time-torture inside my cubicle. So I reach over and check, half expecting my electric bill, only to find out that it's Influenster telling me I've qualified for a new campaign!

I'm pretty sure in that moment I took the phrase "doing a happy dance" literally and immediately jumped out of my chair to share the news with my equally beauty-obsessed coworker. This wasn't just any Vox Box. I was being sent 5 (five!!) products from Kat Von D's new Lock-It range to test and review. Truth be told, I've read way more about Kat's products than I've actually experienced them first hand. Many of her products are constantly being raved about by the beauty community at large (Lolita Liquid Lipstick, anyone?), but I'd yet to take the plunge and purchase something myself.

Fast forward to a month later and I've finally got my own thoughts to contribute to masses. Did Kat's products live up to the hype? Read more to find out!

BH Cosmetics Sculpt & Blend 2 Review

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Whether you're someone who prefers a minimal makeup look, or can't leave the house with any less than 10 products on your face, let's all take a moment to consider the artistry of makeup application. A face makes for a wonderful canvas, and the makeup we wear can be both beautiful and transformative. There are countless products in a variety of textures and shades that we can use to paint our masterpieces, allowing for an incredible amount of creativity in the process. And like any artist, the last thing we want to hold us back is not having the right tools to get the job done.

If unique brushes with an affordable price tag are what you're after, the BH Cosmetics Sculpt & Blend 2 Set might just be exactly what you're looking for. In the early fall I picked up the original Sculpt & Blend Set on a bit of a whim, and it's quite possibly been one of the best impulse purchases I've ever made. I rarely do my makeup now without reaching for at least one or two brushes from the set. Then I discovered that BH Cosmetics had released a sister set to my beloved Sculpt & Blend, and I knew I needed to get my hands on it.

Tools of the Trade: My Favorite Makeup Brushes

As someone who's played with A LOT of makeup from all different price points, I've learned a bit of a valuable lesson when it comes to putting your best face forward. Whether your eyeshadow costs $3 or $30, if you're using a junk brush to apply it, the end result is bound to disappoint you. Show of hands, how many of you have bought a pretty eyeshadow compact from the drugstore and used the little sponge tipped applicator inside to put it on? And how many of you were ready to swear off makeup when you ended up looking like a streaky, unblended mess? I am here to tell you - it's not your fault! The game was rigged before you even got started.

The truth of makeup is that a great formula is only half the battle. You need a few awesome tools at your disposal to get the most out of your product. Whether you're talking foundation, blush, or shadow, the right brush can make a HUGE difference in application and finish and take your makeup game to a whole new level. And, just like the makeup you're putting on, great brushes don't have to cost you an arm and a leg. There are tons of budget friendly options in the market, some of which I even prefer to ones that cost ten times the price!

Which brings us to why you're here today. I'm sharing my favorite brushes, from $3 miracles to super luxe finds from Sephora. Whether you're just starting out your brush collection, or are one of those there-is-no-such-thing-as-too-many-brushes beauty addicts, hopefully you'll find these recommendations helpful!

BH Cosmetics Sculpt and Blend Brush Set Review

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Highlighting, contouring, strobing...oh my!

In the past year or two it seems like the beauty industry has exploded with products geared towards sculpting and defining your face. It's not that the techniques are new. Makeup Artists everywhere have been contouring and highlighting for years. But as celebs share their secrets for why their cheekbones look so flippin' amazing, the demand for products that can help you achieve the look has seemingly gone through the roof.

Full-on highlighting and contouring a la Kim Kardashian is probably not necessary for the everyday. However, incorporating a toned down version of these techniques can really make an amazing difference in your overall makeup look. It's a lot easier than you might think, especially when you have the right tools in hand. Which, of course, brings us to the topic of today's post. When I stumbled upon the BH Cosmetics Sculpt and Blend - 10 Piece Brush Set I just knew I had to take it home with me. With ten brushes specifically designed for precision application of powders, creams, and blushes, it's the perfect way unleash your inner makeup artist. Not only are these brushes beautiful, but they're also an incredible value! Come find out why.

Holiday Gifting 2014 - Real Techniques Nic's Picks

No girl should be without a decent set of basic makeup brushes. Sure, some products are easy to slap on with your fingers, but that's no excuse to not to make the investment. And if you're one of those people who uses the cheap brushes and applicators that come in palettes or compacts and are wondering why your smokey eye doesn't look as awesome as it does in magazines, it's because you're fighting a losing battle. A good quality makeup brush will make a world of difference in your finished look, allowing for infinitely more precision and seamless blending. And while there are certainly a lot of luxurious options to choose from, you don't have to spend a fortune to get your collection started.

Real Techniques is one of my favorite brands for affordable, quality makeup brushes. When I spotted this new Limited Edition Nic's Picks set I got understandably excited. It contains 5 brushes for face and eyes that cover all of the basics necessary for starting out your brush collection!