I've always had mild acne, and that's one of the reasons I started blogging way back in 2012. With proper cleansing, moisturizing and ingredient awareness, I have gotten a hang of my skin's needs and I truly love the skin that I'm in. I read a great article on The Zoe Report recently which laid out my skincare values perfectly: Keep skin moist, don't pick scabs, remove dirt/makeup, exfoliate, keep your brushes/accessories clean, and remember that beauty starts from the inside, and radiates out.
There are many forms of therapy, and mine usually consist of shopping for cute clothes. A regular workout routine means feeling more and more confident in my physique, so this summer I'm excited to rock cropped tops and rompers once the weather hits scorching temperatures.
I'm the type of gal who will pick up a $7 eyeshadow palette during my grocery run, then spend $30 on one lipstick without batting an eyelash. It's all about balance in the world of beauty, and I have a soft spot for everything Hard Candy ever since I fell for their concealer, baked blush, bronzer, highlight and eyeshadow 4 years ago. Today I'm sharing my thoughts on some of their new releases for Spring Summer 2018, which are all available online and in-store at Walmart.
A few weeks ago I braved an April ice shower and visited the store opening of Atelier Cologne at Yorkdale Shopping Centre in Toronto. The store just oozes Parisian chic, no detail is missed and each product is simply divine. They had giveaways, discounts and freebies for the first 75 customers in line. Read on to see my purchases and (massive) winnings from the day.
I’m honestly surprised I still have all 10 fingers because I’ve never gotten into a package quicker than with Clarins’ Sunkissed Summer 2018 Collection. Everything about it shouts perfection. From flamingo prints to vivid colours, this collection is a must for anyone needing a makeup bag refresh this year. I am reviewing the bronzer, 4-colour pen for lips and eyes, the makeup pouch and a lip comfort oil.
With Dimitra Davidson, founder of Indeed Labs - Toronto-based skincare company
This was such an amazing few weeks. From meeting legendary Lady H (aka Caroline Hirons on YouTube) to fun events with friends, I can't wait to continue enjoying spring and summer.
Sun-In Hair Lightener Spray has been around since the 70's, and costs only a few dollars for some serious colour payoff. Having two older sisters and medium-blonde hair, we've stocked bottles of this lightening elixir in our washroom cabinets for as long as I can remember.Sun-In gives you the same natural highlights you get from the sun - only faster! Their advanced conditioning system includes botanical extracts and special illuminators to give hair an extra dose of shine. This spray is alcohol-free, and you don't actually need the sun to get immediate results.
Influenster is a great program for makeup lovers, and those who enjoy reviewing products in general. My most recent product sent for review is the Kat Von D Super Brow Long-Wear Pomade in Medium Brown ($23 CAD), along with the Kat Von D #70 Pomade Brow Brush ($22 CAD). I have dark blonde hair and my brows are considerably pigmented, so this shade works great when sheared out.
I've had an amazing month of April, it has probably been my best one yet! From seeing a Fashion Friday taping of Cityline with Dave Lackie and his Twitter family, to group dinners and store openings, I can't wait for the excitement to continue into May. Here are some highlights, which you can also see live in my vlog below.
First up was the store re-opening party for Yves Rocher hosted by Anum from SummerxSkin. I loved this event, it allowed me to re-discover a brand that I've used only a handful of times before, and now it has become a staple in my routine.
I received a large portion of the Hydra Vegetal line collection, which you'll see below.
I'm enjoying the cleanser from Hydra Vegetal, along with the toner and moisturizer. These will be extra good in the summertime, since they have a light, fresh feel on the skin. Less is more - don't over-use the moisturizer since it can feel sticky.
This vinegar rinse is super delicious smelling! I think it's a nice product to add into your routine, and it leaves my scalp feeling fresh. I can't say whether it has transformed my scalp yet or not, but I'll report back after more regular use.
This mascara was a free gift with purchase, and I love it! the brush is rubber and quite stiff, but the product is so lengthening and doesn't smudge or flake off.
My favourite product from Yves Rocher has to be the deodorant. I have since bought 2 more because they're only $5 each! They're a cream formula and perform so much better than my usual Nivea roll-on. I'd recommend wholeheartedly, especially since the store always has a great promo going on for those with a membership card.
The shampoo and shower gels are quite nice as well, the fragrances are lovely and they don't strip my skin.
Now, to Cityline! Our morning began with incredible pastries and coffee/tea from Maman- a cafe I have always wanted to try in downtown Toronto.
I sat between my blogger friends Brianne and Grieta as we watched the glorious Fashion Friday taping.
One of the best parts of the episode was seeing all the new frames from Joe Fresh. They're beyond chic! Watch the April 20th episode here to see how these ladies had their looks elevated with new glasses.
Dave and Tracy looking fabulous as always!! Thank you for hosting us.
I visited the new Atelier cologne store at Yorkdale the following weekend to see what it was all about.
We enjoyed chocolate orange macarons and fresh citrus juice while waiting in line for the store to open.
I've loved the Orange Sanguine cologne absolue for years, and the first 50 people in line received one of the 30ml bottles to take home.
You will receive a small leather case to put over your 30ml bottle with select purchases in-store. The best part is that they'll emboss it for you with whatever saying you like! I'll post mine in an upcoming review.
The whole store is simply divine.
They also have incredible gift wrap, making Atelier Cologne your perfect one-stop-shop for all your gifting needs.
Getting my leather case embossed!
Amidst the wild ice storm, my sister and I went to see Come from Away in downtown Toronto. The show was outstanding, truly heartwarming to see the compassion that Canadians expressed in a time of crisis.
My Yelp Elite Toronto group had an awesome exclusive dinner at Maezo on Richmond St.
Both the food and company were wonderful.
April was a month filled with delicious Indian food dinners, we went on a family outing to Khau Gully, located in uptown Toronto. It was a bit pricy but the food was outstanding. Service was great and the restaurant was very clean. Would recommend!
