guest post {makeup 101 - lipstick finishes}

Makeup 101- Lipstick Finishes (Guest Post by Kindly Unspoken)

Hey everyone! I’m so excited to be guest posting for Gina today! I’m Cara and I blog over at Kindly Unspoken. My posts mostly revolve around makeup and fashion, but I also have a serious sweet tooth and a love for baking, so I often share my favorite recipes as well. In addition to blogging, I work full time as a marketing professional, I’ve been a police wife for 7 years now, and I’m a mother of two adorable and rambunctious boys, ages 4 and 6. If you want to learn more about me and my blog, please drop in and say hello!

Makeup 101- Lipstick Finishes

As a lipstick lover, wearing lipstick seriously comes as second nature to me now- but I’m often reminded that not everyone is as familiar with all the different types and finishes, or fully comfortable in knowing how to wear them. So today, I’m going to be talking about the five main types of lip products out there, tips on application, and my favorite drugstore products of each. Let’s Get Started!

Lip-gloss (Sheer)- Sheer Lip-gloss of course is sheer in color, but adds a nice sheen and highlights the natural color of the lips. This is a great product for beginners and typically comes with a long tip wand or tube for easy application. This product can be worn alone or applied over lipstick finishes. I recommend this one by Wet n’ Wild for the perfect, glossy sheen.

Lip-gloss (Color Formula) - Color Lip-gloss, on the other hand, comes in a variety of shades and again adds a nice sheen to the lips while adding gorgeous color to the lips. This product is still fairly forgiving in the application process, and you can easily wipe off mess-ups if you “color outside the line”. NYX carries the absolute best butter glosses that look so gorgeous on the lips. My favorite is the shade cotton candy. 

Creamy/Satin Lipstick (Non- Matte) - Non-Matte Lipsticks (my favorite) are soft on the lips and super easy to wear. Unlike matte lipsticks, these lipsticks have a silky, sometimes even glossy, finish. These lipsticks come in a wide variety of color, and pair nicely with a full face of makeup. Unless you are working with a super dark shade, lip liner isn’t necessary when wearing this type of lipstick. If looking to add more sheen, lip-gloss (sheer or color) can be added to enhance the overall lip look, and make lips appear fuller. Rimmel Moisture Renew Lipsticks are my favorite in this category, as they have such a soft, velvety texture on the lips.

Matte Lipstick- If you’re looking for a more intense, full coverage lipstick, matte lipsticks are the thing for you. These lipsticks are shine-free and give a rich color payoff that is long-lasting. Matte lipsticks come in a variety of shades, and you will often find more intense, bold shades in matte lipsticks. These lipsticks are versatile enough that both risk takers and beginners will be able to find the perfect shade. While a fairly easy application, lips do need to be well-moisturized before applying a matte finish. In my opinion, Jordana carries the best selection of matte lipsticks, and at under $2 each, who can argue with that?

Lip Stain- Lastly, lip stains are the most long-wearing formula of all mentioned and “stain” your lips with an intense pigmentation of color. Typically, these products come in packaging similar to lip-glosses, and are applied with a precise applicator wand. The product will first appear as glossy and wet on the lips, but within seconds will dry to a matte finish. As with matte lipsticks, lips need to be well moisturized when wearing lip stains, otherwise any bit of dryness on the lips will show through. Smooch Proof Liquid Lip Stain by NYC Cosmetics is the best of the best in the drugstore market. This stuff will last ALL day and night- seriously, I love it!

For comparison purposes, here’s a shot of all the products (from bottom to top: sheer gloss, color gloss, satin lipstick, matte lipstick, lip stain)

So there you have it- the five main lipstick finishes! I hope this post was helpful in understanding the differences between each, and I hope if you haven’t already that you’ll give these products a try! I promise you, there’s the perfect lipstick out there for each of you just waiting to be found! ;) 

Let me know what your favorite lipstick finish is in the comments, and be sure and give my page a visit to check out Gina’s guest post on my blog today!

Have a great Wednesday!-Cara

Product Drive By

What's a product drive by you ask? Well, I just made it up. Typically when I write a review, it is detailed and comes with a few months of experience behind it. The truth is, I test out so many products every week and they don't all make the cut. But some of them just aren't my thing - that doesn't mean they aren't great products. And sometimes I find products that I like to use occasionally for certain events. And sometimes I find products that I add to my most used line up. Those are the good ones! But what I am saying is, the items I am sharing today are products I just tried recently and do not have as much experience with. 

So keep in mind…these are my opinions and recaps of my short lived experience using them. 

You may have noticed that I posted my Estee Edit voxbox from Influenster on Insta this week. I am in no way claiming to be an expert on these products, but I did have some initial thoughts to share. 

I received these products complimentary from Influenster for testing purposes.

| Pore Vanishing Stick

$28

Easy to use, however, not impressed! I didn't really notice any vanishing of the pores. Full disclosure, I only used it twice. But I think that's enough to tell!

| Beam Team Bronze Hydrate + Glow 

$42

This product is interesting to me simply because I am normally not into the super dewy type of makeup - I have my own oily skin to do that for me! I liked how it absorbed into my skin without being oily- and it gives you some SERIOUS shimmer without being too Jersey shore-esque. The top of the cap flips open for a extra bronzy highlighting beam. Conclusion, I would maybe wear this to the pool or lake mixed with sunscreen. Or to run errands. It's just not my thing for daily wear. 

| Barest Lip Color "In the Buff"

$22

I actually really like the color! The formula is nothing to write home about. It came off on my cup about 5 minutes after I applied it. 

| Flash Illuminator  (**WINNER**)

$28

I have to say, here is where I was impressed! This stuff packs a serious punch as far as highlighting goes. The formula is so sheer but you have to use very little to get a really nice highlight! Have to say, I think I am going to keep this for daily use. I read that a lot of people mix it in with their foundation as well. 

And… Cara of Kindly Unspoken  shared earlier this week that she added CoverGirl Intensity Me eyeliner to her repertoire so I had to try it, too! If you follow Cara, you know her eye makeup (and all makeup!) is always totally on point. And I LOVE that she posts super affordable items. 

I've mentioned before that as far as mascara and eyeliner go, I am not much of a brand snob. I basically always use Revlon Colorstay eyeliner and my mascara choice is usually Loreal. These items can always be picked up at drugstores or Walmart/Target. The reason I wanted to try this one is because Cara mentioned the applicator is designed to do thin and thick, winged lines. And I have been looking for something to make the wing application a little easier. So of course, I grabbed it. 

I wanted to kill two birds with one stone - therefore I used my Estee Edit pack (nothing else on my skin!  No foundation! Just a little blush! ) AND I did a before and after with the Intensify Me liner. I was so impressed with the applicator on the Intensify Me liner and the ease that I could apply a winged tip. I didn't go very thick, but it would have been incredibly easy to. This liner stays on REALLY well and I love how it added a little more intensity to my eyes. Most likely a repeat purchase! (Thanks Cara!) 

As you can see… not a lot of coverage but a whole lot of glow!

Can you tell which side I used the liner on? 

Thanks for stopping by!!!

xoxox

Maskcara Beauty

Hi ladies!

I cannot even hide my excitement about today's post. I have been DYING to fill you in on the Maskcara beauty line. Before we get down to business, I have to tell you a few things:

Whether you like these products, feel inclined to try them, or are already a user, you MUST know that the Maskcara Beauty team is phenomenal. I have NEVER experienced customer service for a makeup line like I have with their team. They have trouble shot application technique, color matching and more with me (multiple times) over the past few months - and always SO friendly! (Thanks Randi!)

Secondly, I received these products from Maskcara several months ago. I refuse to try a make up line (such as this) for a few days, and then try to give you an opinion. I don't know about everyone else, but my skin seems to have a mind of it's own. Some days it is bright and smooth and I would consider leaving the house without makeup. Other days, I would prefer to wear a mask. I always want to give readers of Sweet & Modern an accurate and comprehensive review that spans time. 

That being said, here we go!

If you have been around awhile, you already know I have been a Bare Minerals user for about a decade. I've tried many liquid foundations over the years and been completely unimpressed. One of my readers commented on the blog several months ago about giving Maskcara products a try. I was super intrigued as she stated she was an "ex Bare Minerals user" (Thanks Allison M.!), but also very wary. The IIID Foundation  palette is a creamy foundation as opposed to a mineral powder. Huge change! And I'm not going to lie, I wasn't sure how to feel about it!

The Maskcara team color matched me based off of several photos. They sent the white peach highlight, walnut contour, desert sunset blush and the honey illuminator. When I opened the box from Maskcara, I pretty much shrieked with excitement. (PS- their packaging even smells good… I'm a sucker for packaging!)

I used this handy graphic for the first few times I applied! Super helpful. 

It must be said, if you have never HACed (highlight and countered) there is a slight learning curve. Luckily, Cara is amazing and has this HAC video on her profile. I literally watched it as I was applying the first time. They also included their amazing 30 second HAC brush to get me rolling.

How cute is their packaging?! 

In typical Sweet and Modern fashion, I am going to put together a pro/con list for the IIID Foundation. It's the best way for me to organize my thoughts!

PROS

- Cream foundation gives you a beautiful glow
-The colors in this collection are gorgeous
-Maskcara Beauty team is outstanding. Customer service off the charts!
-You can exchange if you color match wrong (love this!)
-Easy to apply - works great with the 30 second brush as well as other brushes you may already use.
-Easy to blend (the pink blender is fabulous!)
-Excellent price point! The entire palette is $45 (highlight, contour, blush and brightener)
-My husband noticed "a good difference" the first time I used IIID Foundation (HA! But seriously)
-Cara has a plethora of learning material/tips and tricks for first time HACers!

CONS

-If you have oily or combination skin, I don't think you can get away with no primer OR setting powder.
-I typically have to touch up with finishing powder if the weather is humid
-There is definitely a learning curve with application (especially if you are new to HAC-ing!)

Sweet "makeup hair," right?!

Other things I learned/tips and tricks:

-I was applying the contour wayyyy too low on my face. In one of Cara's tip videos, she states that the contour should never be lower than the diagonal line from the tragus of your ear to the corner of your mouth. And also not near the corner of your mouth. That's a no zone!

-I had to play around with primers that helped keep things in place. My favorites? Milk of Magnesia and Benefit Porefecter.

-I HIGHLY recommend putting the "Vanilla Dust" setting powder on after. It makes all the difference in stay power!

-I admit to struggling a tad with the coverage. Cara specifically states that the IIID foundation is not intended to go all over your whole face. When I use Bare Minerals, it goes ALL over and basically gives me a completely blank slate to work with. IIID has forced me to embrace my skin in it's natural state (freckles and all!) and highlight some areas… and leave some areas alone. I'm still working on it :)

Prior to blending. Also not as angry as I appear. 

So, what's the verdict you ask?! Should you buy Maskcara IIID Foundation? Yes. Yes! In my honest opinion, yes. Am I throwing away my Bare Minerals makeup? Well…. no. For some, that may not make any sense. But here's the deal: I absolutely love that I can now create a defined and "glamorous" look in under 10 minutes with the IIID Foundation. Using the HAC method has the ability to transform your face significantly. But on a humid, hot Nebraska day when I am going to be working with kids… I'm probably still going to slap on some mineral powder and mascara and call it a day. I don't want to worry about touching up my face and looking greasy. But date night? Big day of meetings or hanging out in the office? HAC/IIID Foundation all the way. 

There's something to be said for having an arsenal of products on deck. Basically, my arsenal just expanded ever so slightly and I am so pumped to incorporate an alternative look. So, what do you think? Have you HAC-ed? Does it make you a little nervous? (It did me!) What are your favorite tips and tricks? Let me know in the comments!

   

Here I am… in all of my HAC glory. 

And on a different day... going SUPER light with the HAC! 

Thank you again to the Maskcara Beauty team for allowing me to experiment and walking me through the HAC process (+ all the other kind things you did!). Your team is truly one of a kind! 

To check out the Maskcara blog, click HERE!

Ready to HAC? Create your custom palette HERE! 

Review: Maybelline Color Sensational Vivid Matte Liquid

So, I'm still coming off of my Memorial Day weekend high! Also, cannot figure out what day of the week it is for the life of me! Those Monday holidays always get the best of me. We had SUCH a fun and relaxing weekend and I didn't want it to ever end. But.. here we are… already half way through the week! And it's crazy as well. I'm getting ready for a garage sale (my first one ever!) and getting organized for that is TIME CONSUMING! But hopefully the de-clutter will be worth it. 

Anyways, my favorite part of blogging and the platform for Sweet and Modern will always be product reviews. I LOVE trying new things. And I love when I find something so good, that I can share with you all (and buy over and over!) There are so many new things out that it is hard to know what to look for. That's why I LOVE a good review. So, let it be known, my reviews are never biased and they are completely, 100% my own opinion. 

Lately, like everyone else, I am loving the pigmented, matte lip look. It seems so modern and classy to me and I love how it can tie together a whole "done up" face. So, of course I was ecstatic to be given the opportunity to review a complimentary Vivid Matte Liquid by Maybelline! 

Here's what I received in the mail:

Nude Flush & Rebel Road 

Pros: 

Gorgeous shades. Highly pigmented. The nude is so pretty and the red is so bright and bold!

Pretty packaging. 

No scent (pro or con depending on the person!)

Eeeeekkk.. that's where it ends for me. I told you I am always honest!

Cons:

Doesn't dry like other matte liquid lips do (I'm looking at you NYX! Love that stuff!) 

I had to blot my lips to get the "matte" look. 

Within the hour I had the "looks like my lips are flaky and dry" look. And they aren't. 

Sort of difficult to apply. I don't know if it's because it doesn't dry as quickly but I was having issues with smudging onto my face. 

So there you have it. If I were going to go for a matte cream, I would highly suggest trying the NYX Soft Matte Lip cream over this particular brand. But that's me!

Has anyone else tried either product? Thoughts? 

xoxox 

I received these products complimentary from Influenster for testing purposes. 

Friday Favorites: Bra Edition

Happy Friday! Yay! After being up half the night with some sort of stomach bug, this day really cannot end soon enough. God bless the weekend.

So, on a normal Friday I would have a list of things I am currently loving... which is new and changing every week! But this week, I am SO EXCITED about one item that I am just going to talk about it. Over and over. Until I am blue in the face.


My previous dilemma with Summer tank tops was this in a nutshell: "I love this shirt but I would have to wear a strapless bra... and I don't want to."

I cannot count the times I thought about buying a cute shirt or tank top that fell under this situation. Ladies... you know! Strapless bras are the worst. They slide down. They give you ledge boob (I think you are familiar). The are uncomfortable. They don't stay in place. You are always doing the awkward "pull up."

Until... this bra.

 

If you follow Sheaffer Told Me To blog than you probably already know about this bra. In practically ever post, she mentions that it is the greatest strapless bra in the world. But, I am always skeptical. I mean, a strapless bra is a strapless bra. WHY is it better? But I had to know.

So I went to Von Maur (we don't have a Nordstrom's here in good ol' Nebraska!) and asked to try it on. The sales rep said, "Oh, sure. It's the best strapless bra ever."

I thought that was a good start.

As soon as I put it on, I understood. I just got it. It was clinging to my chest for dear life. I could tell it was different from any other strapless bra. I may have even done a few jumping jacks. And a modified cartwheel (the dressing room is only so big). I was sold enough for me to make the purchase.

It's hard to see in the picture, but it is lined with rubbery material.

But...I knew the true test would be in the actual wear. I immediately went to work with my research.

Results as follows:

Evening out on the town:
Didn't even remember I had a bra on.
Didn't pull said bra up one million times
Didn't take bra off in bathroom and put it back on

Daywear (in the heat!):
Bra didn't slide (even when I was sweating profusely. Sorry, but it's the truth.)
I didn't pull the bra up once.
Ledge boob? None here!

and the ultimate test...

A day at work:
(quick side note, I work with families and kids. I spend a lot of time crawling around on the floor and sometimes playing with children. I would have never considered wearing a strapless to work. Just  no.)
but...PASS!
That is all. I didn't even remember I was wearing a strapless bra.  There was no "falling out," sliding down, spinning around...etc.

You guys, this is the real deal. Wacoal knew what they were doing when they created this heavenly bra.

Now, a few things. Yes, it is $65. Which, in terms of bras, is somewhat typical to a little pricey. A VS bra is going to run you something similar. But put it like this...you will never need another strapless bra. Until you wear your first Wacoal Red Carpet bra out, that is. But it's a bra. That could be years. I think the investment is worth it.

I can't remember the last time I went outside and did this pose in a strapless bra! Oh that's right...never have.
Image: Nordstrom's.

So what am I saying? GO GET THIS BRA! And no, I am not being paid or compensated in any way. I just feel that strongly about it. :)

Happy Friday!

xoxox

Pssst... link up below!

LP Update + my new chair!

Happy Thursday! I've been a little absent on the blog lately, but work and people have to come first! I love having this space to discuss products and happenings, but it's also the first thing that has to go when I get busy. Such is life!

Anyways, Living Proof. Several months ago I caved and tried their dry shampoo since it was getting all the rave. And... I didn't like it. Ugh! I hate when that happens. I wanted to love it, I really did. One of my favorite blogs in the world, Maskcara, has been very open about her decision to switch to the Living Proof hair line. I seriously trust her opinion on hair and make up, and it was enough for me to want to give it a go.

In the last few months I have needed a "refresher" and usually completely changing up products will do that. With the help of one of my local Beauty First employees, I landed on the No Frizz Shampoo and Conditioner + the new  Perfect Hair Day - Fresh Cut Split End Mender. After using the products for a few weeks, I finally have an opinion!

 

No Frizz Shampoo & Conditioner:

Pros: Smells so light and clean, all day long. I LOVE scent that holds on all day. It gives you that squeaky clean feeling without drying your hair out. Smooths out hair.

Cons: I experienced my hair getting oily FASTER rather than slower/less washing. (I typically wash every 3-4 days and I was feeling like I needed to wash more like every other day). I had to use extra conditioner to get it to "work." And... of course the price tag. Salon products are expensive. And I will always invest in good shampoo and conditioner, but $24 (a piece) for an 8 oz bottle is a little bit of a stretch! Yikes!

Perfect Hair Day - Fresh Cut Split End Mender:

Pros:  Again, the smell. I love it! It is such a unique, light scent. I also love that you can use it while your hair is wet OR dry! It really does smooth hair out if you are getting ready to blow dry and style.

* I have to be honest and say I got a trim RIGHT  before I started using this product and so I really don't have split ends right now. That makes it difficult to see how it is "repairing." Soon enough ....

Cons: I cant find any. The price I guess. Again, to be expected. It's $24 for 3.4 oz. Which seems crazy, but you really don't use that much, and I expect this tube to last me quite a while.

So, here's the deal. I think this line is a winner. I'm not going to use their dry shampoo because it just didn't work for me (And...hello Drybar detox. My absolute favorite!) I wish I would have known that the LP website is awesome and has this handy little quiz tool to help you decide which product is best for you. I took the test AFTER the fact, and the website recommended that I try the Perfect Hair Day shampoo and conditioner.

Since Beauty First is awesome, and lets you try their products for up to 60 days, I think I am going to go ahead and trade out for the PHD shampoo and conditioner. I just want to find my "perfect combo" because I think these products are worth it!

SO... who has tried LP? What is your perfect combination?! I would love to hear more ... email me or let me know in the comments! :)

And... I have the sweetest husband in the world! As I mentioned here before, I refinished a vanity for my closet. I wanted to get a stool for it, but I never got around to it. When I came home last night, this was all set up. I LOVE IT! It's perfect and I probably couldn't have picked something out better myself. Plus, Oreos and the perfect Spring flowers?!  Yes!!

Don't mind my messy makeup situation! Real life.

 

Sans Oreos.

 

I have a BIG weekend ahead. A wedding double header plus lots of friends and family time, starting tonight! See you next week!

xoxox

 

Favs on Friday

Yay it's Friday! My week seems painfully fast. Does that make sense? It's when your week is so busy that each day flies by and you don't know what happened. But not really in a good way…. 

Anyways, it's Friday. And I am thrilled. I have picked up quite a few things recently that I am really loving and I thought I would give a quick run down. Especially if you happen to be in the market… 

Triple Sec

Yes, I know, I already talked about it. But i'm talking about it again because it's that good. Talk about amplified volume! If you need a root lift, look no further. This stuff is no joke. And can we talk about the smell? YUM. 

So, a 4.2 oz bottle is $26. So yes, it's a little on the higher end of things. I will say a little bit goes a long way! 

Eminence Citrus Lip Balm

I have been using this now for several week and I am super impressed! I have heard great things about the brand, but have never tried any of their products. A sweet friend gifted this balm to me and I am loving it! 

Again, $24 is a little much for a balm. I get it, and agree. But it takes so little… I'm going to go ahead and say this will be well worth the dime! 

The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown 

I had a friend recommend this book to me. I will admit, I was a little bit slow to start but I am REALLY enjoying it! A lot of great points. I haven't finished yet but I can already tell you: worth a look! 

I know this post is called "favs" but I had a big "miss" in there. If you are anything like me, you like to hear the "what not to buy" as well, right? 

Well, I feel like I have to preface by saying I will always be faithful to Bare Minerals. They are hands down my favorite makeup to wear… on my face. I recently purchased their "Flawless Definition Volumizing Mascara" ($19) and I have to say… unimpressed.

 I liked the brush and the way it went on, but after a couple hours, it was coming off in little chunks that were getting into my eye! I had bloodshot eyes all day, and felt like I was constantly digging things out… not at all pleasant. Big miss! Oh well, they can't do everything right! 

Any big product finds lately? Let me know in the comments or link up (below!)

 

Ipsy Glam Bag

I AM SO EXCITED!!!

Yesterday I went and got my mail... and there was this sparkly pink packaging that caught my eye. I didn't remember ordering anything, so I was obviously intrigued. When I opened it, I was pleasantly surprised that my Ipsy Glam bag had arrived. This is my first delivery and I have been waiting for MONTHS on the waiting list!

If you are not familiar with the glam bag, it is delivered monthly for $10/mo and has 4-5 product samples each delivery. Check out their website HERE to sign up! I had no idea what to expect, but I am pleasantly surprised! The products showed up in this cute bag..

This is my kind of VIP. 

And I received 5 products…

Left to Right..descriptions from the Ipsy page: 

1. CAILYN Cosmetics 

Pure Lust Extreme Matte Tint creates a vivid explosion of color on your lips with continuous coverage that lasts! A unique infusion delivers a waterproof, non-sticky, matte finish in a single stroke for chic lips. Available in 16 addicting shades.

2. IT Cosmetics 

CC+ Cream with SPF 50+ is truly a multi-tasking beauty miracle. It's a full-coverage Color Correcting Cream, Anti-Aging serum, plus Broad Spectrum Physical Only SPF 50+ all in one! The SPF 50+ UVA/UVB Physical Only sunscreen protects against the rays that both burn and age your skin. CC+ is infused with cutting edge anti-aging technology and is clinically proven to improve skin texture, brightness and increase skin hydration by 79%.

The anti-aging hydrating formula is infused with Peptides, Niacin, Algae, Vitamins A, C, B, E, Hyaluronic Acid and Hydrolyzed Collagen along with Antioxidants and exotic natural botanicals for long-term brightening and color-correcting benefits.

3. Briogeo Rosaraco Milk-Leave in treatment

This ultra lightweight leave-in conditioning spray fortifies your hair with nourishing rosehip, argan, and coconut oils. Its silicone-free formula adds hydration & moisture without weighing hair down.

Multi-benefits: hydrates, reduces frizz, enhances manageability, strengthens hair, protects against UV rays & heat, and nourishes hair.

Free of parabens, silicones, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances & dyes.

4. Jesse's Girl Pure Pigment Eye Dust 

These pure pigment eye dusts can be used alone as loose eye shadow, or over your Eyeshadow Primer for an all-day, crease-free look. Each container includes a sifter insert.

*In brown sugar 

5. Eylure Eyelash Strip

The Eylure Naturals No.020 lashes are the ideal problem-solver lashes – from fine to subtly full in moments its perfect for the girl who wants oomph without being obvious. Eylure strip lashes enhance the natural beauty of your eyes. They are suitable for all eye shapes, designed as they are to contour the eye, and can be used for any occasion. Each pack contains a set of lashes and a long lasting glue. The lashes can be applied quickly and easily, are long lasting and reusable.

So, I am not familiar with any of these products. In fact, the only brand I have even heard of is IT Cosmetics. So ladies (or whoever)... get ready for some product reviews coming your way. AHHH! I'm so pumped. 

And have a GREAT holiday weekend! 

XOXO, 

Kevyn Aucoin Review

I am super excited to finally start reviewing some of the products I have been experimenting with over the past few months.

As always, mascara is a hot topic and I am (and probably always will be) on the search for the PERFECT mascara. The good thing about the idea of the perfect mascara is that it is usually different for everyone. For that reason, it's hard to take the advice of others, because sometimes it wasn't what you were personally looking for.

I really love Lindsey Regan Thorne's blog , she is a make up artist in North Carolina (and a native Nebraskan girl!) with a lot of awesome product reviews and beautiful make up (and style) creations. In short, check out her blog.

Anyways,  a couple months ago I read a post she had written about mascara (read here). In the post she talked about her mascara journey…. Better Than Sex, They're Real, Sephora brands, drug store brands… on and on. Same story over here, so naturally I was very intrigued when she said that she tried the Kevyn Aucoin mascara and it totally blew the previous products out of the water.

So a few weeks later I was hanging out with my sister and blabbing about make up and products and new things I want to try. Being the ever so attentive sister she is, she somehow remembered this mascara I mentioned on "some blog" I was talking about (good listening skills!) and went ahead and ordered me the mascara. She gave it to me on Christmas and I was SO pumped to try it. I've been using it since then, and I feel like I have enough data to work with at this point to talk about it.

Before I review it from my perspective, here is what I look for in an ideal mascara:

1) Length. Extreme length. 

2) Moderate volume. Thicken things up. 

3) No clumping!

4) Somewhat firm bristles on the brush for a smooth application.

5) Doesn't flake off halfway through the day.

There are a few other qualities that can be helpful, but these are the nuts and bolts of a good mascara (in my opinion).

So, here it is. I am SUPER disappointed to say I don't feel like it met my expectations. One of the things Lindsey mentioned in her blog was how long the travel size tube had lasted her. I have had the regular sized tube for just over a month and I feel like it is already drying up and really difficult to apply.

My first few applications were good. I felt like the formula was decent, application was "ok," and I got enough volume. I was unimpressed with the length (I still feel like nothing compares to the length I can get from "They're Real.")  The more I have used it (which has been almost daily) I feel like it gets harder and harder to apply, and there is not much left on my eyelashes by the end of an 8 hour workday.

I wanted this to work out SO badly… but it just didn't. Unfortunately Kevyn Aucoin and I will be ending our short affair after this tube is officially out. Bummer….

BUT, it doesn't end here. There are a million mascaras out there that I haven't tried yet! And believe me, I will keep hunting.

As always, if you have any favorite mascaras that you would like to recommend, send them this way!

XOXO,