Product Review: Garnier® Skin Renew Miracle Skin Perfector B.B. Cream

Ever since I've heard so many beauty bloggers and YouTube gurus rave about BB creams and how amazing they are, I have been wanting to try them.

So many makeup brands carry BB creams, so I wasn't sure which one to get.

My sister decided to try out the Garnier one, but it didn't really work out for her, so luckily, she passed it along to me. :)

Garnier® Skin Renew Miracle Skin Perfector BB Cream

$12.99

Save time with just one multi-benefit product that offers advanced skincare + immediate skin perfecting coverage. This hybrid formula renews radiance, brightens complexion, evens skin tone, hydrates and protects with SPF 15 UVA/UVB suncreen. Get results you can see and feel instantly.

Instantly:

• Renews

• Brightens

• Evens

• Hydrates

Even though I don't have other BB creams to compare this with, I was pretty impressed with this product the first time I tried it.

It glides on very easily.

It has a creamy consistency.

It gives medium to light coverage.

It's not heavy on the skin.

Evens out my skin tone. Great for people who suffer from hyperpigmentation.

Lasts for long hours.

Here is a picture of the BB cream freshly squeezed out of the tube.

My sister bought it in MEDIUM/DEEP, so the color is a couple shades darker than my skin tone.

Here is a swatch of the cream thoroughly blended.

It actually doesn't look too bad when blended well. 

Although, you can still kind of see that the medium/deep shade is a bit darker.

So I'm going to have to try LIGHT/MEDIUM shade.

OVERALL, I give this product a 4 out of 5.

(I just need to get the right shade. Haha.) 

I  also got a sample of the Maybelline Dream Fresh BB Cream in Light/Medium in the mail.

I tried it last time I went out and I completely fell in love with it! 

It's seriously AH-MAZING!!!

So, now I'm torn between Garnier­ and Maybelline. :\

HELPPPP!!!!

Have you guys tried the Garnier® Skin Renew Miracle Skin Perfector B.B. Cream? What about the Maybelline Dream Fresh BB Cream? Which one do you guys prefer?

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How To Dress For Minimum Expenses

We all get those days when we feel like we have absolutely NOTHING to wear, when the truth is, we have a whole walk-in closet full of clothes.

It's kind of funny to think about, actually. 

I think it's just our excuse to go out and buy more clothes, don't you think?

This recently happened to my mom and I.

She was telling me how she doesn't have anything to wear anymore and I was just like "Mom, are you kidding me? We were just at the mall a few days ago. How can you not have anything to wear when you literally just went shopping?!"

IT DRIVES ME INSANE! INSANE! (Although, I know I do it too. :/)

It's a good thing Catherine is back with yet, another, informative article about cheaper shopping alternatives when you "feel like you don't have anything to wear anymore." (Even if you really do.)

--- ---

How to dress for minimum expenses?

It has become a ridiculous situation when a woman says that she has a bunch of things in her closet but still has nothing to wear. What to do in this case – to run to the nearest store again? No, you can regularly update your wardrobe in much more accessible and less costly ways. You basically have three options how to dress for minimum expenses and look stylish after all:

1. Dress exchange or flea market’s clothes. It is enough popular fashion movement where the essence of which is that people bring their old clothes, but in good condition, and change them with those who want to wear them.

2. Sell ​​all unnecessary clothes – to friends, relatives or online. Open your Internet shop if necessary. This method of getting rid of unnecessary things can be quite profitable and it has become quite popular just like online payday loans for fashionistas. By the way, these online loans can save your day as well.  You can also run a sort of a mini home sale and call together all of your friends, neighbors and colleagues.

3. Buy everything abroad. If you have decided to change your wardrobe radically - you should look at foreign boutiques, especially during the huge seasonal sales. Some tour operators offer their customers shopping tours to Italy or France. Saving on such purchases may be significant. For example, in Milan during Christmas holidays the sales’ discounts can be as high as 80%.

--- ---

These are all great ideas! 

I donate my clothes to Goodwill. 

Not only are you giving yourself more space in the closet (wink wink), but you are also helping out by providing clothes for the needy. WIN!

The 2nd option sounds interesting as well. 

I know a bunch of bloggers already have Etsy shops where they sell clothes that are still in good condition. 

I think it's a great way to get rid of things that you don't want anymore and it's also a great mini side business.

As for the 3rd option, I've actually found some great deals and promos on various foreign online clothing stores! 

Most of them almost always have super sales or huge promos going on so definitely keep your eyes peeled.

How often do you clean out your closet? 

 Also, don't forget to enter my Feather Hair Extension Giveaway!

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GOAL FOR THE YEAR: Use Up All My Samples

HAPPY SATURDAY!

One of my goals for the new year is to try all of these product samples.

I've accumulated quite a lot in the past year so I want to get on it and use them all up. :D

Do you guys use your samples right away?

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SEVENTEEN: Purrfect Nails

When it comes to nail art, I am a total addict!

My sisters always laugh at me when I show them a new nail art that I've tried. 

It's super fun to do and I especially love how it looks when it's done.

I'm not extremely good at nail art (I could use way more practice), but the process of doing it so relaxing to me. 

I love to go on pinterest to get new ideas and inspirations every time I'm about to paint my nails.

Here are some really cute and easy nail art idea care of SEVENTEEN!

NEON SPLATTER

How To: Add a little punk to pink with this trick: Apply one coat of white base color. (This makes the neon pop.) Then layer on 2 coats of electric pink and let dry. Take a tiny brush and paint random dots and spots on nails with green polish and white base. Seal with top coat.

I've tried something really similar to this except it was neon marble nails. 

It was a bit challenging to do but it turned out really nice.

MIDAS TOUCH

How To: Give yourself the royal treatment with purple and gold! Paint 2 coats of deep violet and let dry. Then use the round head of a sewing pin to make the gold dots. Allow dots to dry and  seal with top coat.

Yes! Now I know how to make a perfect polka dot. I always butcher the polka dot design every time I try it on my nails. :(

NEW JEANS

How To: Your skinnies never looked so cute! Apply 2 coats of a dark denim color and let dry. Brush a lighter denim shade onto a makeup sponge and gently dab each nail to create a faded texture. Use a white polish pen for the stitch details and embellish with stick on studs!

Ooo, this looks like an interesting one! I just have to go get me a white polish pen. 

BARE NECESSITY

How To: Buff up a basic mani with an edgy detail. To get the look, start with 2 coats of nude polish and let dry. Using a skinny paint brush dipped in black polish, carefully paint a tiny triangle at the base of each nail - outline the shape first, then fill in. Let dry and finish with top coat.

This look is more grown-up. It's simple and sophisticated at the same time.

Maybe you could use a combination of more vibrant colors to make it more lively and fun.

What kind of nail art/design do you like to do?

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On My Bucket List: Ride A Hot Air Balloon

Riding a hot air balloon!!!

It must pretty amazing to ride a hot air balloon. Not to mention romantic, if you're with your significant other. :D

Happy Sunday!

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eFoxcity.com: Online Shop-aholics Anonymous

Hello everyone!!!

One more day till another week ends. What are your plans for this weekend?

I'm going to enjoy my last few weeks before school starts again. (I start on Feb. 4th.)

I actually can't wait for school to begin. It's going to keep me really busy, so that's good. (Don't worry, I'll still find time to blog. :D)

The weather here in LA has been crazy windy. Like, seriously.

The wind is so strong, I feel like I'm going to get blown away.

That's why lately, all I've been doing is online shopping in the warmth and comfort of my bed. Haha.

I know, I know. It's a "tsk tsk" on my side, but I can't help it!

Online shopping is so addicting!!!

In the midst of my online shopping, I came across eFoxcity.com.

eFoxcity.com is an online fashion clothing wholesaler. We are suppliers of many wholesalers and boutiques worldwide.

We supply most wedding apparel, fashionable clothing & Korean style ladies’ apparel internationally. We understand that fashion market wants unique and special ladies clothes, so we are always adding beautiful new styles to our collection. Please come and visit our site regularly to see what we have updated. We pride on offering exceptional low wholesale price but good quality at the same time. We provide fantastic service and still work hard to improve.

We offer large variety of clothing styles including: wedding & event dresses, winter jackets and coats for women, party dresses, cute T-shirts, Hot ladies tank tops, Sexy Halter Tops, stylish outer wears, charming under covers, sporty sets, romantic Love Pearls and accessories, elegant evening gowns, fine quality tailor made wedding gowns. We bring you an amazing assortment of products in many brands and styles, and 90% similarity with clothing on famous fashion magazines.

I was browsing through their website and they have some extremely cute stuff for a very affordable price.

Here are a few things from their website...

Cheap Fashion Dresses

  

Empire Waist Ruffles Dress, $9.89 | 3/4 Contrast Color Cotton Dress, $16.59 | Vintage Hollow-out Dress, $9.99  

They even sell really pretty wedding dresses. For all you brides-to-be and are still on the lookout for an affordable dress, be sure to check it out. :)

Vintage Wedding Dresses

  

Ksenia's Half-Sleeve Dress, $179.53 | Ksenia's Pleats Wedding Dress, $185.49 | Ksenia's Lace Trumpet Dress, $237.56

Dresses for special occasions such as prom, cocktail parties, homecoming, quinceaneras, etc., are also available on their website. These can even be bridesmaid dresses! :D

Cheap Party Dress

  

Jade Sweetheart Ball Gown, $157.86| Pink Trumpet Evening Gown, $199.69 | Sweetheart Chiffon Evening Gown, $136.99

If you're already in awe from seeing all of these beautiful dresses, I suggest you go pay eFoxcity.com  a visit to see even more of their amazingly cute and affordable clothes/accessories! :D

Are you guys addicted to online shopping? What do you guys like better? Shopping in the mall or online?

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PANDORA: Make Your Loved Ones Happy With The New Pandora Valentine's Collection

We're exactly 2 weeks into January. Next thing we know, it's Christmas time all over again. (Is it crazy that I can't wait for Christmas to come again?)

However, before that happens, we're going to have to get through the next 11 months first.

February is first on the list and you know what that means, Valentine's Day is just around the corner! (It's actually exactly a month from today!)

I definitely believe that Valentine's Day is not just for couples. It's a day to honor all your loved ones, no matter who they are in your life.

So, for those of you who are single, don't fret, because you don't have to be alone this Valentine's Day.

Make plans with your friends and have a Valentine's Day party with cupcakes and chocolates and all that good stuff.

You guys can even give each other gifts! That sounds like a blast, don't you think?

Now, for those of you are married or in a relationship, have you given some thought to what you want to give your significant other?

If not, NO WORRIES! Catherine is here to tell you guys all about Pandora and their brand new Valentine's Collection...

Take it away Catherine! :D

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Make your loved ones happy with the New Pandora Valentine's Collection

You can make dreams come true this Valentine's Day with the stunning new Pandora Valentine's Collection. If you have someone in your life who loves their Pandora bracelet, why not give them one of the beautiful new charms for Valentine's this year? Or, if you want to treat someone to a brand new Pandora bracelet, add a Valentine's charm for a romantic touch.

It’s easy to buy Pandora jewellery online at the brand new, easy to use Pandora website. Simply settle down to shop at your convenience while avoiding your significant other from finding out and spoiling your surprise.

  

As you would expect, the Pandora Valentine's Collection is full of sparkle, sweet, and romantic wonder. Treat someone special to a glittery bauble for their charm bracelet with one of the new Pave heart charms. Available in red, black, and clear – there’s a Pave charm to suit the Valentine's colour scheme.

  

Also available are charms adorned with Pave hearts, or, for those who prefer dangling charms, charms with dangling Pave encrusted hearts in a choice of colours.

  

For something a little cuter, the Heart Lock & Key Charm and our brand new Turtle Dove Charm both make adorable options. However, you really can’t get cuter than the Pandora Love Letter Charm, decorated in silver enamel and with its own sweet little message.

  

As well as traditional Pandora charms, you’ll also find earrings, rings and necklace charms available in the new Valentine's Collection.

The new Pandora Valentine's Collection sparkles and shines and perfectly sums up the feel of the love season. However, if you’re looking for the perfect gift, don’t be afraid to browse the Pandora range – all of which is available at your fingertips at the brand new Pandora website.

Whatever you choose, Pandora will wrap your items in their iconic gift wrap and, for orders over £75, deliver them direct to your door for free. With free and easy returns also offered, ordering Pandora jewellery online is a no-risk way to do all of your Valentine's Day shopping.

Make your significant other smile and make dreams come true for the ones you love the most this year. Treat them to something really special from the Pandora Valentine's Collection.

--- ---

Wow, all of these look absolutely AH-MAZING! 

I've always wanted a charm bracelet. Filling it with different charms and pendants just sounds so exciting to me!

That's why these are perfect!!!

So, thank you so much Catherine for this amazing article. I sure hope you guys got a couple of gift ideas for Valentine's Day. :D

Also, don't forget to enter my Feather Hair Extension Giveaway!


Who will you be spending your Valentine's Day with? Have you started planning yet?

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Hair Extension Deal: Long Hair, Don't Care & A Giveaway!!! -- CLOSED

Before I had my shoulder length bob, my hair was actually pretty long. (It was way past my belly button.)

I was so obsessed with it because I could do all kinds of stuff with it - curl it, straighten it, wave it, crimp it - you name it and I probably did whatever it is to my hair.

But after a while, I got tired of it, so I decided to chop it all off.

Now it's just me and my short hair. Haha.

  

Even though I love my bob, I do admit there are times when I wish I had my long hair back. (Who wouldn't?)

Thank goodness for hair extensions!!!

Hair Extension Deal is one of the world's leading professional online suppliers of HAIR EXTENSIONS.

We provide a a wide range of human and synthetic hair extension products. These hair extensions are all available in different lengths (including 10 inch, 12 inch, 14 inch, 18 inch, 22 inch, 24 inch, and 26 inch), and in different styles (like straight, curly, afro curl body wave, or deep wave styles). All our hair extensions are the natural alternative without damaging your own hair.

Some of their hair extension products include:

Human Hair Wefts

Clip-in Hair Extensions

Fusion/Pre-Bonded Hair Extensions

Micro Ring Hair Extensions

Tape In Hair Extensions

Hair extensions are a good investment because you can style it any way you want. 
You'll be able to straighten, curl, cut, etc., depending on the mood you're in. 
It's a great way to change up your look and it's good for people who miss their long hair. Ahem Ahem, Carrie! Haha. :D

Hair Extension Deal is also having a few discount promos going on right now, so make sure to take advantage of that as long as you can.

You can get 80% OFF OF THEIR CLIP-IN HAIR EXTENSIONS!

Their 100% HUMAN HAIR EXTENSIONS ARE BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE!

You can also get 75% OFF OF THEIR LUXURY BRAZILIAN VIRGIN HAIR WEAVE!

***GIVEAWAY***

Read My Life As Carrie is teaming up with Hair Extension Deal to give one lucky winner a feather hair extension.

How to enter:

All you have to do is fill out the rafflecopter form below. You must do all the mandatory entries. 

Also, don't forget to email Cymee or your entry will not count.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This is an International giveaway.

It will end on February 12, 2013, 12:00 AM, PST.

Also, if you are just dying to get your hands on these extensions, Hair Extension Deal is offering you guys a 15% off discount code!

All you have to do is email Cymee at cymee@hairextensiondeal.com and they will send you the code right away. :)

GOOD LUCK!!! :) 

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FASHION FRIENDS: Which Clique Are You?

"High School was the best 4 years of my life." 

At least that's what most people would say.

I definitely enjoyed my high school experience.

Yes, it started off a bit rocky (freshman year was my very first time attending a public school), but I met a lot of new friends and everything eventually fell into place as the time progressed and I couldn't have asked for a better experience.

One thing I noticed among high school students is the way each and every one of them expresses themselves through fashion. 

I, myself, LOVED to dress up when I was in high school. (Well, I still do.)

I would always plan out my outfit the night before to save me some time in the morning. 

It was pretty interesting to see unique styles and various fashion "cliques" among the student body.

Let's see which one we belonged to...

THE TRENDSETTERS

You style sisters rock the hallway like a runway in unique looks that mix classic basics with designer finds.

THE ART KIDS

Your outfit is your canvas: Fill it with unexpected colors, eye-catching prints, and quirky details.

THE JOCKS

Fashion is in your court this year, sporty girl. Athletic fabrics and neon colors are super-hot, and so are you!

THE DRAMAS

You belong in the spotlight. Take the stage in bold looks that prove you're a style star.

In terms of fashion, I think I would've been in the TRENDSETTERS group with a little bit of the ART KIDS. (Although, I am in no way artistic.)

Mix them both together and that's how I dressed as a high schooler.
Everyone always told me that I dress so colorful. I always took that as a compliment because I definitely didn't want to be known as the dull one. Haha.

My high school didn't really have the stereotypical "cliques" like what they have in movies.

Everyone pretty much hung out with everyone. 

You'll see a baseball player hanging out with a science geek or a cheerleader hanging out with the "Asians." 

Yes, there were people who had more friends than the others and there was definitely the occasional snobby girl, but it was never like a Regina George type of thing.
Do those kind of cliques even really exist?

Which fashion clique would you have belonged to? Did your high school have the populars, the jocks, the geeks, etc?

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