Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Favourite Lipsticks: Red Edition

I am back with the second post in my Favourite Lipsticks Series and this time I am sharing my Favourite Red Lipsticks. I still admit that I have way too many Lipsticks, however the Reds weren't as bad as the Pinks were. Once again I have tried to include something for everyone whether you prefer to shop Drug Store, High-End, or Luxury Brands or you just want some Red Lipstick  recommendations. Also, don't forget to use your Ebates account when shopping online, because who doesn't like receiving Cash Back on everyday purchases, and most of the links I provided below are Ebates friendly; including Sephora, MAC, and Amazon. Check back soon for the final post in this series featuring my Favourite Nude/Mauve Lipsticks!
Until then, Happy Lippie Shopping 😉💄

Lipsticks
(Left to Right) Covergirl Lip Perfection Lip Colour: #305 Hot Passion ($5) | Covergirl Lip Perfection Lip Colour: #300 Flame ($8.49) | Smashbox Be Legendary Lipstick: Infrared Matte ($25) | Hikari Lipstick: Cabernet ($13 USD) | Marc Jacobs Beauty Kiss Pop Lipstick: Headliner ($35) | MAC Matte Lipstick: Diva ($21) | MAC Liptensity Lipstick: Mulling Spices ($25) | Make Up Forever Artist Rouge Lipstick: C404 Passion Red ($27) | Make Up Forever Artist Rouge Lipstick: M400 ($27)

Liquid/Pencil Lippies

(Left to Right) Bite Beauty High Pigment Pencil: Pomegranate ($28) | Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick: Fiery ($31) | Cailyn Tinted Lip Balm: Big Apple ($19 USD)
 

Monday, November 21, 2016

Best Dressed: 2016 AMAs

Lady Gaga
Tuxedo: Brandon Maxwell | Hat: Gladys Tamex Millinery
Hair Stylist: Frederic Aspiras | Make-Up Artist: Sarah Nicole Tanno
Stylist: Brandon Maxwell

Nina Dobrev

Short Suit: Zuhair Murad | Clutch: Edie Parker | Stilettos: Stella Luna
Hair Stylist: Riawna Capri | Make-Up Artist: Monika Blunder
Stylist: Ilaria Urbinati

Gigi Hadid

Gown: Roberto Cavalli | Jewellery: XIV Karats
Hair Stylist: Bryce Scarlett | Make-Up Artist: Erin Parsons | Nail Artist: Mary Sol
Stylist: Monica Rose

Rebecca Romijn
Dress: Rita Vinieris | Pumps: Le Silla | Jewellery: Noudar
Hair Stylist: Richard Collins | Make-Up Artist: Karan Mitchell
Stylists: Artconn Styles & Martee Briann

Heidi Klum
Jumpsuit: Wolk Morais | Jewellery: Lorraine Schwartz
Hair Stylist: Lorenzo Martin | Make-Up Artist: Linda Hay | Nail Artist: Tom Bachik
Stylist: Maryam Malakpour

Hailee Steinfeld
Romper: Elie Saab | Sandals: Stuart Weitzman | Jewellery: EF Collection
Hair Stylist: Mark Townsend | Make-Up Artist: Melissa Hernandez 
Stylists: Rob Zangardi & Mariel Washere

Thursday, November 17, 2016

Mini Review: Adore Cosmetics Advanced Firming Eye Serum and Advanced Firming Eye Cream

I have officially fallen in love with Adore Cosmetics... again! I have been currently using their Advanced Firming Eye Serum and Advanced Firming Eye Cream for around 5 weeks now and my eyes have never looked better. Not only have these two products helped eliminate under eye dark circles and puffiness, they have also significantly minimized the look of my wrinkles and fine lines and have brightened up my under eye drastically. I am a strong believer of taking care of your skin, because you only have one, and it starts with prevention. You do not need to be "older" to start protecting and treating your skin, start young, start NOW!
The secret ingredient is their exclusive Plant Stem Cell formula which helps protect and regenerate healthy textures of your own skin's Stem Cells. Another important ingredient is Vitamin E, which acts as a powerful antioxidant that reduces oxidative damage to revitalize skin's appearance and prevents future damage and harm. Other ingredients that help hydrate skin and provide anti-ageing tendencies include Jojoba Seed Oil, Soybean Protein, and Panthenol just to name a few. These products promise instant results to areas in need and Adore Cosmetics isn't just saying that to sell products. The Advanced Firming Eye Serum and Advanced Firming Eye Cream are by far the best Eye Products I have ever used! The only downfall is the hefty price tag that comes with them, the Advanced Firming Eye Cream retails for $589.95 and the Advanced Firming Eye Serum retails for $595.95. However, typically Eye Creams and Serums can retail for over $100 and it can take you multiple products to find the right ones for you. With that being said, why not put your money into a product that you know you will love and instantly see results from, instead of spending hundreds of dollars, not to mention time, testing different Brands/Products. You also receive a ton of product, the Eye Serum is 1.7oz and the Eye Cream is 1.05oz, I honestly have not even put a dent into either product and I have been using them both daily (Serum: Morning and Night | Cream: Night). Also, Adore Cosmetics sometimes has additional percentage off promotions via their website, emails, and social media platforms (Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook), so be sure to sign up and follow them to be able to take advantage of those additional savings when they happen. I honestly can't say enough about either product, I love them both, and I can't imagine any other products taking their place in my daily routine. To learn more about these products and Adore Cosmetics visit their website by clicking the PINK links above.

Wednesday, November 16, 2016

Best Dressed - Glamour Women Of The Year

Gwen Stefani

Gown: Marchesa | Shoes: Guiseppe Zanotti
Hair Stylist: Danilo | Make-Up Artist: Gregory Arlt | Nail Stylist: Shelly Hill
Stylist: Rob Zangardi & Mariel Haenn

Cara Delevingne
Gown: Elie Saab | Sandals: Stuart Weitzman
Hair Stylist: Mara Roszak | Make-Up Artist: Molly R Stern
Stylist: Rob Zangardi & Mariel Haenn

Niagara-On-The-Lake: Self Guided Wine Tour


There's nothing better than a warm and sunny Fall weekend, especially when you're in Wine Country; Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario to be exact. Being able to taste yummy wines from multiple Wineries, while taking in the breathtaking vineyards and Fall colours is priceless. Typically I plan ahead and book a Wine Tour (my personal favourite is the Wine Trolley Tour, which you can book through Vintage Hotels), however this time we opted to explore Wine Country on our own, simply by getting a Map from the concierge desk at our hotel, Pillar and Post, and driving from Winery to Winery. This allowed us to visit more Wineries then the usual 2-3 on Wine Tours, and also allowed us to pick and choose which Wineries to visit. My boyfriend and I visited 9 Wineries over the 2 days we were in Niagara-On-The-Lake, and fell in love with some new Wineries and Wines! 9 Wineries may sound like a lot, however when there are more than 2 dozen in the area, we still have many more to explore. We also took advantage of some of the amenities at our amazing hotel, Pillar and Post, by spending most of our second day at the 100 Fountain Spa getting a couples massage, a mani/pedi for me, and spending time in the hot springs. We also had a more than delicious dinner at the Cannery Restaurant, where I had the Mediterranean "Martini" Seafood Linguini, which was absolutely A-MA-ZING! I highly recommend the restaurant! Overall it was a relaxing and romantic weekend away from the city, filled with good wine, great food, and quality time with my boyfriend! Be sure to check out what Wineries we visited and what Wines we recommend at each Winery below.

1. Two Sisters Vineyard - 2012 Cabernet Franc
2. Peller Estates Winery - Ice Cuvée Rosé
3. Reif Estate Winery - 2015 Baco Noir
4. Ravine Winery - 2013 Sand & Grave Riesling | 2015 Cabernet Franc
5. Coyotes Run Winery - 2014 Meritage | 2014 Syrah
6. Chateau des Charmes - Brut Méthode Traditionnelle | 2014 Cabernet Franc
7. Konzelmann Estate Winery - Méthode Cuve Close Riesling | 2014 Gewürztrzminer | 
2012 Chardonnay Family Reserve
8. Stratus Vineyards - 2013 Icewine (Red)
9. Colaneri Estate Winery - 2013 Insieme | 2013 Pinot Grigio | 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon | 
2013 Pinot Noir

Some Wineries have tasting flights of 3-4 different wines for a flat fee, where as some charge per tasting (NOTE: usually a tasting is 1oz). Because we were driving and wanted to hit up a bunch of different spots we shared flights or opted for a sample or 2 at each winery.

Chicken Portobello and Wild Rice Soup

Another Fall day another Soup Recipe, and this ones a goodie! I usually don't include Rice or Pasta in my Soups, as I would rather have more protein and veggies filling me up, however when I came across this Soup Recipe I was so excited that it included Rice. You gotta switch things up from time to time! I think too because there is a combination of different Rices, the textures really help enhance the overall flavour of the Soup, and added different nutrients I don't normally include in my daily diet. This Soup can be on your dinner table in less than an hour, and is an extremely low maintenance Recipe with only 5 Steps. So, if you need some inspiration and/or help with What's For Dinner Tonight, look no further, well look below, the Ingredients and Directions are there. 
Enjoy and Happy Cooking!


Ingredients
1. Small Onion - Chopped
2. Carrots - 2/3 Cup Chopped
3. Celery - 3 Stocks Chopped
4. Portobello Mushroom - 3/4 Cup Chopped
5. Garlic - 3 Cloves Pressed
6. Brown Rice - 1/2 Cup (Uncooked)
7. Long Grain & Wild Rice Combo - 1/2 Cup (Uncooked)
8. Butter - 1 Tbsp
9. Flour - 1 Tbsp
10. Chicken Broth (Low Sodium) - 6 Cups
11. Water - 3 Cups
12. Salt and Pepper (To Taste)

Directions
1. Melt Butter in large pot, add Onions, and saute until soft (approximately 3-4 minutes). Mix in Flour and saute for another couple of minutes.
2. Add Chicken Broth, Water, Carrots, Garlic, Celery, Brown Rice, and Chicken Thighs. Cover and bring to a boil then let simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Add Wild and Long Grain Rice mixture and Mushrooms, cover and let simmer for another 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove Chicken from pot, shred, then return to pot. If necessary add more water, if soup is too thick, and add salt and pepper to taste, if needed.
5. Serve and Enjoy :)

Friday, November 11, 2016

Nightime Skin Care Routine

I take my Skin Care Routine very seriously, listen you only get one Skin so you need to protect it as much as possible, and yes that can mean multiple steps besides just removing your make-up and washing your face, serums and lotions are also a major part of your Skin Care Routine. With so many products out there to choose from and sometimes a hefty price tag, I am sharing with you my Nighttime Skin Care Routine, to help relieve some of that guess work when it comes to purchasing Skin Care Products. NOTE: My Skin Type is Combination/Oily depending on the time of year, so if you have Dry Skin some of these products may not be suitable for your Skin Type. I have also linked all the Products I use below, and don't forget to use your Ebates account to get Cash Back from your purchase, PSST Sephora and Tarte are on Ebates!

First I start by removing any make-up with either Sephora Cleansing Wipes or Bioderma Micelle Solution. Then I put 1 pump of Cleanser on my Facial Cleansing Device and massage into wet skin for approximately 2 minutes and rise with warm water. Then comes Serum, and yes I use 3 different ones. I use 1 pump of my Face Serum with 2 drops of the Bronzing Serum (I have to keep some colour throughout the Fall/Winter months) and rub that combination all over my face and neck. Then I use a small bead amount of my Eye Serum, which I rub all around my eyes including my eye lid. Last step is Moisturizer, and you guessed it I use 2, mostly because the consistency of Anti-Wrinkle Lotion is usually thicker and I don't like using it where I don't necessarily have to. Anyways, I use about a quarter sized amount of my Anti-Wrinkle Lotion, rubbing into my forehead area, and then another quarter sized amount of my Face Lotion, rubbing it into the bottom half of my face. Finally I use a pea sized amount of Eye Cream and rub it under, on my lid, and corners of my eyes. And volia, I'm ready for bed. I know it may seem like a lot of steps and time, but once you get use to the routine it should take you less than 5 minutes from start to finish.
(Left to Right) Tarte: Maracuja Bronzing Serum ($56) | Youth To The People: Kale + Tripeptide 37 + Vitamin C Age Prevention Serum ($62) | Kate Somerville: Age Arrest Anti-Wrinkle Cream ($105) | Foreo: Luna Mini 2 ($159) | Adore Cosmetics: Advanced Firming Eye Cream ($589.95) | Youth To The People: Kale + Spinach + Green Tea Age Prevention Cleanser ($36) | Kate Somerville: Oil Free Moisturizer ($78) | Adore Cosmetics: Advanced Firming Eye Serum ($595.95)

** To see a Review on both the Adore Cosmetics Products click HERE**

The Gown Speaks For Itself

Lily Collins stunned on the Red Carpet promoting her upcoming film, "Rules Don't Apply", at the AFI Fest wearing this stunning fully embellished sheer and lace gown. Keeping all eyes on her gown the only accessories were multiple rings dainty rings, side swept curls, bronze smokey eye, bold brow, and peachy-nude lip.

Gown: Reem Acra | Jewellery: Nigaam & Eva Fehren
Hair Stylist: Gregory Russell | Make-Up Artist: Molly R Stern
Stylist: Rob Zangardi and Mariel Haenn

Gigi Werked That Sidewalk After Kimmel

Gigi Hadid made an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel earlier this week looking A-MA-ZING, I mean look at those curves. Gigi opted to wear a bod-con black dress layered with a cheetah print robe, simple black sandals, black tote, and dainty necklace and earrings. Completing her look was a soft smokey eye, pulled back up-do, and nude/mauve lip. This look is sheer perfection if you ask me.
Robe: Roberto Cavalli | Dress: Nanushka | Sandals: Stuart Weitzman | Handbag: Versace
Hair Stylist: Bryce Scarlett | Make-Up Artist: Erin Parsons
Stylist: Monica Rose

Thursday, November 10, 2016

Favourite Lipsticks: Pink Edition

I have been wanting to do this series for quite a while but just didn't have the time to go through all my lippies, swatch them, and put together a favourites list. Well, today was the day and I have learnt that I have WAY too many lipsticks in general, and way too many different shades of pink. However, I think I have put together a collection that covers Drug Store, Higher End, and Luxury Brands, making there something for everyone. I have added links for each lipstick, making it easy for you to learn more or purchase any of the below, if desired. Also, I have tried to only include links for online shops that can be used in conjunction with Ebates, so you don't have to feel as guilty knowing you'll be getting cash back for your purchase. I'll also be doing a Favourite Collection for Red and Nude/Mauve Lipsticks in the near future, so stay tuned for that.

Lipsticks
 
(Left to Right) MAC Amplified Cream: Girl About Town ($21) | Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet: L'Éclatante ($37 USD) | NARS Audacious Lipstick: Greta ($39) | Maybelline Color Sensational Vivids Lipcolor: Fuchsia Flash ($9.99) | Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter: Strawberry Shortcake ($8.49) | Givenchy Le Rouge: Fuchsia Irrésistible ($42) | MAC Matte: Candy Yum Yum ($21) | Milani Color Statement Lipstick: Flamingo Pose ($11.99) | Maybelline Color Sensational The Loaded Bolds Lipcolor: Rebel Pink ($8.88) | Covergirl Lip Perfection Lipstick: Temptress | MAC Cremesheen: Speak Louder ($21) | YSL Rouge Pur Couture: Rouge Rose ($42) | Stila Color Balm Lipstick: Elle ($29) | Maybelline Color Sensational Vivids Lipcolor: Shocking Coral ($9.99) | Milani Color Statement Lipstick: Rose Hip ($6.99) | Make Up Forever Artist Rouge Mat: Neon Pink ($27) | YSL Rouge Volupté Shine Oil-In-Stick Lipstick: #7 ($40)

Liquid Lippies
(Left to Right) Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick: Backstage Bambi ($24) | NYX Liquid Suede: Pink Lust ($10) | Dior Addict Fluid Stick: Plaisir ($39) | Lime Crime Matte Velvetines: Pink Velvet ($20 USD) | Too Faced Melted Liquified Long Wear Lipstick: Melted Fuchsia ($25) | Tarte Tarteist Creamy Matte Lip Paint: So Fetch ($24)

Attention To Detail Obsessed

Hailee Steinfeld attended the LA Premiere of her upcoming movie, "The Edge of Seventeen", looking simply gorgeous. Let's start with this dress, what first had me in awe was the hand painted floral detailing, then I started noticing the sexy cutouts through the bodice and sleeves, which only added to the overall beauty of this gown, finally came the beading detail at the neck and bottom of the sleeves, once again subtle yet a perfect addition. Keeping everything else simple, Hailee wore black sandals, minimalist jewellery, bold smokey winged liner, nude lip, and soft curled half-up half-down hair. She may be playing a 17 year old in this movie but this look makes her look like the confident young woman that she is.

Gown: Ralph & Russo | Sandals: Stuart Weitzman | Jewellery: Hearts on Fire
Hair Stylist: Mark Townsend | Make-Up Artist: Melissa Hernandez
Stylist: Rob Zangardi & Mariel Haenn

Wednesday, November 09, 2016

THIS LOOK! Just WOW

Kate Hudson shinned on the Red Carpet at the Hollywood Film Awards on November 6th wearing a plunging neckline and thigh-high slit dress with gorgeous asymmetrical floral appliqued bodice, that I am completely obsessed with, I mean look at it! Letting the dress take center stage, Hudson completed her look with nude stilettos, simple studs and bangle, tucked straight blow out, subtle smokey eye, and mauve-nude lip.

Dress: Marchesa | Stilettos: Gianvito Rossi
Hair Stylist: David Babaii | Make-Up Artist: Debra Ferullo | Nail Artist: Ashlie Johnson
Stylist: Sophie Lopez

Tuesday, November 08, 2016

The Most Fashionable of Birthdays

What I would have done to have as stylish of a 21st Birthday as Kendall Jenner did. Kendall took LA by storm on Wednesday November 2nd wearing not 1 but 2 Birthday Outfits at not 1 but 2 different locations! Oh to be the Rich and Famous! And not to mention the dollar value of both outfits - outrageous is the only word I can think of that's appropriate! There was no surprise here, the supermodel looked absolutely gorgeous in both outfits as she ate, drank, and danced the night away celebrating her 21st year with her closest friends and family. Happy Birthday Kenny!

Dancing at Delilah in LA

Dress (Custom): La Bourjoisie | Clutch: L'Afshar Lineas | Earrings: Harry Kotlar | 
Sandals: Yeezy Season 2
Hair Stylist: Jen Atkin | Make-Up Artist: Hrush Achemyan
Stylist: Monica Rose

Dinner at Catch in LA
Jumpsuit: Julien Macdonald S/S 2017 | Fur Cuff: Charlotte Simone | 
Necklaces: Noudar and Jacquie Aiche | Earrings: Harry Kotlar | Sandals: DSquared2
Hair Stylist: Jen Atkin | Make-Up Artist: Hrush Achemyan
Stylist: Monica Rose

Monday, November 07, 2016

What's For Dinner Tonight - Salmon Quinoa Stir-Fry

With my Bestest Friend's wedding only weeks away, working out and healthy eating is top of mind, even though all I want during this time of year is carb-loaded comfort foods, so what's healthier than Veggies and Salmon! Ok ok I admit, I desperately need to go to the grocery store and that was all that was in my fridge/freezer and it is WAY better than scrambled eggs. But, on another note, this meal was beyond easy to whip together, taking less than 30 minutes, and anything topped in Sriracha is GOLD. The Ingredients and Directions are below and if these Veggies or Protein aren't for you I encourage you to pull together those stragglers in your fridge and get creative.
 
Ingredients:
1. Salmon Fillet
2. Red Pepper - 1/4 or 4 Slices
3. Orange Pepper - 1/4 or 4 Slices
4. Yellow Pepper - 1/4 or 4 Slices
5. Mushroom - Sliced
6. Red Onion - 1/4 Sliced
7. Garlic - 3 Cloves Pressed
8. Quinoa - 1/4 Cup Cooked
9. Sriracha
10. Seasoning Salt (For Salmon) - 1 Tsp
11. Salt and Pepper - To Taste 
12. Olive Oil (For Cooking)

Directions:
1. Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees.
2. While oven is pre-heating, prep baking sheet by drizzling Olive Oil on some tin-foil and place Salmon on top. Drizzle Salmon with Olive Oil then sprinkle on Seasoning Salt and press in. Also, chop all Peppers, Mushrooms, Red Onion, and Garlic.
3. Place Salmon in the oven for 15-20 minutes, depending on thickness of fillet.
4. Once Salmon has approximately 10 minutes left, mix together Peppers, Mushrooms, Red Onion, and Garlic in a heated frying pan with Olive Oil. 
5. When Veggies are cooked through mix in Quinoa and as much Sriracha as desired. Cook for another 3-5 minutes or until Salmon is finished in the oven. (Note: I had made Quinoa in my fridge, if you need to make Quinoa follow instructions on package before adding to the Veggies.)
6. Remove Salmon from oven and place on top of a bed of the Veggie and Quinoa mixture.
7. ENJOY 🍴😋

One Bootastic Look, You Shouldn't Be Scared Of

Emma Watson was awarded the Inspiration Prize at the 2016 Harper's Bazaar Women of the Year Awards at Claridge's in London on October 31st wearing this, occasion appropriate, Halloween-isk gown with illusion neckline and spooky appliques throughout. Watson completed her look with a box clutch, thin choker, soft up-do, natural make-up, and red lip. Although this look is extremely gimmicky, I really like it! What do you think?
Gown: Christian Dior
Stylist: Rebecca Corbin-Murray

Another Fashion Win For Miss. Michele

Lea Michele has been showing up on my Best Dressed list a lot lately and I am loving it. Here, Lea walked the Grey Carpet at the Entertainment Weekly Popfest Event in LA on October 30th wearing this multi-colour and stripe wrap dress with thigh-high slit and plunging neckline. Lea completed her look with small studs, black stilettos, straight side-part blow out, winged liner, and "your lips but better" lipstick.

Dress: J Mendel
Hair Stylist: Laura Polko | Make-Up Artist: Jessica Ahn
Stylist: Brad Goreski

Brie Almost Nailed This Whimsical Frock...

Brie Larson walked the Moss Green Carpet at the LACMA Art and Film Gala on October 29th wearing a gorgeous soft-blue Resort gown with high-low hem, ruffled bodice detailing, sheer long bell sleeves, and raw edge hem, and accessorizing her look with nude double platform t-strap pumps and box clutch. However, Brie's hair and make-up definitely could have been done up a little more, even a low soft ponytail and coloured lip could have amped up her look, because this dress deserves much much better.

Gown: Gucci | Pumps: Gucci | Clutch: Gucci
Hair Stylist: Jenny Cho | Make-Up Artist: Rachel Goodwin
Stylist: Cristina Ehrlich

J-Law's Best Look EVER!

Jennifer Lawrence made a stunning appearance at the 2016 British Academy Britannia Awards on October 28th, where she presented Jodie Foster with the Stanley Kubrick Britannia Award for Excellence in Film. Lawrence opted for a dusty blush gown with multiple bodice cutouts and belted waist detailing that was fresh off the Spring/Summer 2017 Runway. Completing the Oscar-Winner's H2T ensemble were nude sandals, slight bronze smokey eye, nude/mauve lips, and whisped up-do. I mean, this look is just incredible I have nothing bad to say. Love Love Love!

Gown: Elie Saab | Earrings: EF Collection | Sandals: Jimmy Choo
Hair Stylist: Jenny Cho | Make-Up Artist: Jillian Dempsey | Nail Artist: Jenna Hipp
Stylist: Jill and Jordan