Pretty Chatty: nails

Showing posts with label nails. Show all posts

May 14, 2012

May Gossip Girl Birchbox Overview

Hi everyone!! I'm definitely late to the Birchbox bandwagon, but I definitely could not pass up the opportunity to sign up for the May box because it was Gossip Girl themed/sponsored. I waited quite a long time to sign up because I feel like these subscription boxes can be so hit or miss each month. I'm a Gossip Girl addict, so I decided it was time to finally give in and try it.

Let me preface this review by saying that these boxes were extremely hyped up. I was so excited for the products that were rumored to be included, but I was unaware how varied the boxes were. I received the "Chic Sunday Brunch," box.

Arquiste L'Etrog Perfume Sample (full size - $165)
beautyblender blendercleanser Sample (full size - $17.95)
Color Club Nail Polish in Disco Nap Full Size ($8)
Dr. Jart+ Waterfuse BB Cream (full size - $32)
twistband Skinny Headband (full size 6 pack - $20)
XOXO Notecard (full size set of 12 - $10)

I definitely have a lot of thoughts about the products I received in my box. This is my first box, so I have nothing to compare it too, but I feel like it should have wowed me more. There were only two products in this box that I was excited to see: the nail polish and the Dr. Jart+ BB Cream. The perfume sample was a little too strong for my taste, but hey perfume can't be customized for everyone. I was disappointed to see the Beauty Blender Cleanser included when I don't own a Beauty Blender, but it explains that it can be used for makeup brushes as well even though it doesn't smell very pleasant. I love the nail polish color and it applies really well. I already use the Dr. Jart+ BB Cream in the golden tube and wasn't too excited about shelling out over $40 for a full size quite yet, so I was stoked to see this sample included. Unfortunately the sample was microscopic and only had one squeeze in it, the rest was air, which I read online was a huge issue for lots of other subscribers as well. The Twistband headband was nice. I happened to prefer wrapping it around my wrist instead of in my hair haha.

I'm very undecided as to whether I will continue to subscribe to Birchbox. It's only $10, so I got my money's worth, but it's so hit or miss. It's that whole premise that keeps people coming back because you really don't know what you're going to get, but I hate surprises. I'll definitely keep you updated on my adventure with Birchbox if I do continue my monthly subscription.

But if you do love Gossip Girl, definitely don't forget to check out the season finale tonight to see who Blair chooses! SO MUCH EXCITEMENT.

SWAK - Danielle

May 9, 2012

Yay or Nay: Caviar Nails

Whenever there's a new nail trend, everyone gets excited. Remember the crackle polish trend blowing up? Well caviar nails are definitely hot right now--- but it's up to you: Yay or Nay?

These sprinkle like nails definitely look delicious, but it's hard to tell whether or not they'll be a huge hit. What do you think?

So how do these "caviar" pearls work? According to Sephora, it's a two step system that requires a lot of patience and may not even last too long. Plus the system is $25, which is definitely a little pricey!
This cutting-edge manicure lasts at least 48 hours. To ensure your new manicure last even longer: seal the free edge of your nails with a top coat to ensure durability, make sure you allow the pearls to set for at least 15 minutes, and work on one nail at the time while nails are still wet.

I feel like this trend may be a little high maintenance for us, but what do you think about it?

Stay beautiful,
Hannah

April 6, 2012

Inspired by Kate Spade

We love Kate Spade and their flair for prints and color! The brand is currently doing a "Year of Prints" after a great "Year of Color" in 2011, so I thought I'd do some makeup inspiration for some of the lovely dresses and bags from this year. Even if you can't spring for Kate Spade, living colorfully is never a bad idea!