Haul: Sephora VIB Sale

If you're a fan of makeup and skincare, you know that high-end products very rarely get marked down. This is why twice a year, beauty lovers are treated to Sephora's VIB sale. Insiders are well aware that the fall sale is always the best because the discount is greater (20% as opposed to 15% in the spring). In addition to this, holiday sets are priced reasonably well so it's an excellent time to score bundles at the best value.

Because I occasionally freelance for another retailer and am able to get 40% off on most of my must-have beauty products, my temptation at the Sephora sale is usually limited to their more exclusive brands. This time around, I only picked up a couple things I've had my eye on all year as well as basics that are always smart to stock up on when it's on sale. While the sale is limited to VIB customers and is now over, these are some products that I highly recommend for Christmas gifts or to keep in mind for future events.


What I Purchased:

• Anastasia of Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Eyeshadow Palette: Technically, I didn't get this via the Sephora sale. I wanted to but it was out of stock. To my benefit, I was able to score this palette for even less at another retailer thanks to reward money and my insider discount! When this product originally launched earlier this year, I told myself that I didn't need another warm-toned palette but the hype got to me. I love Anastasia's eyeshadow formula and these colors really are my type. I recently cleared out my collection so I was happy to fit this in nicely. I'm curious to see how a few of the shades compare to others I own but as a whole, this will be very convenient to have in one palette. I'm not crazy about the packaging but my first impression in terms of quality in its formula and color range is very good.
• Hourglass Ambient Lighting Edit - Surreal Light: I've had my eye on this beauty since it first launched. It was the number one thing I wanted from the Sephora sale. Hourglass makes some of the most ethereal powders I have ever used. It gives your face an airbrushed, candlelit glow that is worth every penny. I highly recommend this for lighter complexions. I usually prefer my highlight to be subtle and this does the trick in the most wondrous of ways. The natural blush lasts for hours and the bronzer is actually suitable for fair skin. And of course, the faux marble packaging is what sold me. Stunning!
• Perfect Formula Gel Coat Manicure Set: I discovered the Pink Gel Coat polish through a VIB points perk and it is now my favorite nail strengthener and base coat -- but it is so pricey. I always make sure to only purchase it when it is on sale. When I saw this set, I decided it would be a nice way to try out some of the brand's other products.
• Urban Decay All-Nighter Setting Spray Duo: This setting spray is a staple in my collection. It lasts quite a while but when you see the value set on sale, you stock up! I'll be good with setting spray for a long, long time. 
• Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion (x3): This is another must-have that lasts forever but when it's marked down and on sale on top of that, you buy as many as logically possible. The reason the price was slashed is because the packaging changed but I much prefer this version. I won't need to buy another primer for years.
• Sephora Oil Infusion Color & Care (07 Raspberry Smoothie): This was another item I found in the sale section. I love lip oils but they're usually pricey (Clarins is my favorite and YSL makes a beautiful one as well). I have another one from the Sephora brand and thought it was a decent product for the money. This doesn't last long on the lips but it's nice to throw on for hydration and shine.
• Human + Kind Body Oil: I absolutely love body oils so when I found this in the sale section, I scooped it up. I was unfamiliar with this Irish brand but I'm excited to compare it to similar products I have in my collection. I'm always looking for a more affordable alternative to my Clarins Tonic Body Treatment Oil. Maybe this will fit the bill.
• Sephora Cushion Bronzer (Light/Medium): I adore cushion products-- sunscreen, primer, corrector, foundation, blush, highlighter... I've got them all. But I've never tried a cushion bronzer. This product is smaller than I thought it would be and I'm not sure the color will be right for my skin tone but I found this in the sale section and it was a cheap thrill. 
• Benefit Bigger & Bolder Brow Kit (03 Medium): I don't need any more brow products but this value set was enticing. I originally wanted a different kit but it sold out in my shade. I've been wanting to try out some of Benefit's new brow range so this was a good way to do so at the best price.
• Natasha Denona Eyeshadow Palette 5 (Color 04): After the Hourglass kit, this was the next item I wanted the most from the sale. I've wanted to try Natasha Denona eyeshadows for the past couple years. I could never justify the cost of her large palettes but this smaller set at the discounted price was worth the splurge. Based on these shades alone, I'd say that her shadows are definitely over-hyped and not worth the astronomical price that she charges for the large kits but they are beautiful and of good quality. Just not outstanding. I'm very happy to have this set and see how the shadows perform on the lids but I doubt that I repurchase anything else from her line. 

While it's fun to treat yourself every once in awhile, I don't condone hoarding cosmetics. I've always loved being a girlie girl and collecting makeup but as I've gotten older, I prefer the way I look with less and less. It's fun to try new products and experiment artistically with different looks but I'm hoping that 2017 will be the year that my collection gets smaller and better edited. I've done a pretty good job at narrowing it down but it's still insane for one lady to have. One of my new year's resolutions is definitely to simplify and keep things in check.

Now Playing: "Quick Musical Doodles" by Two Feet

Chic & Thrifty: The Junk Hole Haul

Nestled between a busy road and a small creek notorious for flooding lay a place that I've jocularly referred to as "The Junk Hole" since I was a small girl. The Community Thrift Center is full of junk and it definitely gives off the hole in the wall vibe but it's also a goldmine for buried treasures. It's the ideal spot for scoring found objects, records for pennies and random odds and ends. Over the years, I've spent countless hours shuffling through its shelves and rummaging through the racks.

My family and I have adopted everything from Chanel scarfs to Christmas trees at this charming little establishment. There's not much you can't find at a place like this. The prices are among the best I've seen within the secondhand market in Pittsburgh. The odds are good but the goods are odd. And I like it like that.

Should you find yourself at Community Thrift on Babcock Boulevard in the North Hills, be sure to take note of the sales. It changes daily.  Pop some tags.

MY RECENT HAUL:

Items Purchased:

• Lamarthe Leather Handbag. Made in Italy. French brand. I spotted the craftsmanship on this beauty from a distance away. Upon closer inspection, she was in nearly perfect condition with the dust bag included (love the unicorn logo the brand uses- obviously, check out of the other items I got). When I was in grade school in the 90s, book bag style purses were all the rage. They're apparently making a strong comeback. This particular design isn't something I'd typically go for but for $15 (it was 50% off and retails for hundreds), the quality of the leather and unique designer was too good to pass up. 
• Chico's Exta-Long Wool Sweater Cardigan: This looks like it was never worn. Brand new condition (and it probably originally cost somewhere in the neighborhood of $200). It's difficult to find a really long sweater (this hits at about my calves). This style is perfect to throw on for extra warmth or to pair over leggings. I'm always cold so I get a lot of wear out of things like this around the house or if I'm going somewhere like the movies. I recently joked with some of my girlfriends that I must be getting old because some of the window displays at Chico's are starting to appeal to my style. Find it at the thrift store? All the better. 
• E.O. Brody Glass Co. Vintage Vase/Dish: My Mom has always been a fan of Depression glass and other unique pieces. Her love of this type of thing was definitely passed on to me. I've always had an appreciation for antiques but as I've gotten older, glassware has really stood out to me. I love glass like this for a number of different uses- alone on a shelf or table as a decorative piece, as a candle holder (a la Waverly and Irving), as a vase for floral arrangements or a candy dish. The smoky quartz color of this particular piece really caught my eye. I thought it was a bold neutral that would go nicely with a number of different interiors. 
• Records: For .49 an album, I'm happy to give these a new home. Charlie Rich, Behind Closed Doors (1973), Johnny Mathis, People (1969), Dionne Warwick, Dionne (1976), The Lettermen, A Song for Young Love (1962).
• Party Invitations: I love to have friends over for a movie night and thought these little invites were too cute not to snag. It'll give me an excuse to plan a little viewing party for something fun and use some of the new address labels that I recently got!
• Glowstick Bracelets: Speaking of parties, my birthday is a couple weeks away and I thought these might come in handy. I love a little glowstick action.
• Decorative Owl: Well, I brought this little handmade guy home with the idea in my mind that he was a votive candle holder. Well, my standard-sized votives were too big for his little head and the flame got his body a bit too heated for my liking. The battery operated votives were also too big. I have no idea what he's supposed to be. Maybe I'll store knickknacks in him or just keep him as a figurine. He would have looked so cute lit up. Disappointing. 
• Pittsburgh Magazine: I picked this issue up because it features the best homes of the year in Pittsburgh- notably, my favorite, The Farmhouse! I had all intentions of posting an in-depth blog about this property but never got around to it. Perhaps after reading the article, I'll have more inspiration. I'd love to have a party at this place (it would make for an incredibly romantic wedding reception venue). 
• Journal: I'm constantly jotting down notes- everything from ideas, lyrics, food I ate, to-do lists, and more. I pretty much collect journals. I love them and am quick to get my hands on good ones. Finding such a nice one that's unused and at the thrift store is definitely a score.
• Wine Wars: My Mom found this little game that's supposed to be educational. I thought it would be fun to have a little game night with a few bottles glasses and good times. Wine Parties are always a blast. I love the blind testing games and the conversation.
• Miami Psychic by Regina Milbourne. I love all things paranormal or psychic-inclined. I browsed through this title at the thrift store and admittedly, my first impressions were questionable but I gave it a go anyway. It seems a bit "trashtastic" but who doesn't love a good guilty pleasure read?
• Unicorn Bookends, Takahashi San Francisco: This was by far my favorite find! I was positively giddy when I came across these magical little creatures on a high shelf at the store. I've been on the lookout for ceramic unicorn bookends for the past year. The ones on eBay were a bit overpriced and the sets I saw on sites like One Kings Lane were way too steep. For $6, it wasn't the steal of the century but by comparison it was definitely a bargain and well worth the wait. I've always loved unicorns (for a couple different reasons), so these will be special to me for some time. I can't wait to display them!

Now Playing: "I Will Be Back One Day" by Lord Huron

Recently Purchased

1. Moonstone.
When I was in Salem for Halloween, I was eager to find a piece of jewelry that I could take home as a souvenir/keepsake. I found an eye-catching moonstone ring at one of the New Age shops but the price was a bit too steep to justify. Instead, I searched on eBay for an equally beautiful but less costly alternative. It's not exactly the same as getting it while away but I'll still associate the gem with my trip. I actually found a rock/stone in the town square that I'm going to take to a jeweler to see if I can have something custom made. One of the shop keepers in Salem identified it for me as Labradorite. It supposedly promotes psychic ability and helps foster strength and change.

2. Philosophy Kiss Me Exfoliating Lip Scrub.
I like to wear darker lipsticks and reds in the fall/winter. Exfoliating is a must. Love this product. Not only does it leave my lips smooth but it tastes excellent and smells like Christmas (peppermint!).

3. Dior Addict 2 Perfume.
I've had this fragrance in my collection for quite a few years but recently needed to replenish my bottle. It's one of my favorite scents.

4. Shiseido Benefiance Wrinkle Resist 24 Enriched Softener.
I've been loving this in replacement of a traditional toner. It leaves my skin feeling so soft and looking radiant. It's the perfect prep for moisturizing cream.

5 & 6. Red Wine and Candles.
I love this combination all year 'round but especially when the weather starts to get cooler. I love snuggling up at night with these two cozy favorites and a good movie or book. It's the little things in life.

7. A New Car! Finally!
Well, "new" to me! I've wanted this car (black/tan Lexus SC 430) since I was a freshman in college. I chose it over another brand new vehicle. I don't care that it's 10 years old. It's been my dream for a decade. Better late than never. She's beautiful!














Now Playing: "Let Her Go" by Passenger
*There's a reason this song has 132 million+ YouTube views.

Recently Purchased

1. Guerlain Meteorites Pearls (Rose) and Brush.
I've really been getting into the notion of quality over quantity and trying to edit down my makeup collection. I love the weight of this product. It's beautifully packaged and so well made. I could easily repurpose it for trinket storage when I'm through with the makeup or even hold onto it as a keepsake to be passed on. Guerlain is the best of the best.

2. The xx Concert Tickets at Stage AE.
I haven't seen them since Bonnaroo a few summers ago. I'm so excited! They're one of my favorite groups. Such beautiful music. They've become quite popular but if you haven't heard of them, check out "Intro", Crystalised", "Islands" or "Together."

3. MUJI Acrylic 5-Drawer Organizer.
I purchased one of these a couple years ago and really like it for storing my lip glosses. I don't really have the counter space for another one at the moment but I know around the holidays they tend to go out of stock and are slow with delivery. I bought an additional unit because my eyeliner collection has grown substantially. I want to be able to see every piece that I own. I highly recommend the MUJI drawers. They are sturdy, smooth and overall fantastic. If I ever have more space, I might invest in The Clear Cube for storing a great deal of my entire makeup collection but for now, these things are lightweight and efficient.

4. Steelers/Patriots Game Tickets.
I'm so excited to go to Boston for the first time! Per usual, Halloween weekend should be quite memorable. I look forward to our annual Steeler away trip all year long. This one will also be a blast. I haven't decided what I'm going to be yet or if I'm even going to dress up in a costume at all but I'm thrilled to finally see Salem and other parts of New England.

5. The September Issue. Vogue.
Well, technically I have a subscription so I didn't buy this at the newsstand. But every year for as long as I can remember, I have enjoyed a glass of wine (or a few) and reading this. I have a collection of September issues that I'm always looking to build upon. This year, one of my favorite actresses is on the cover, Jennifer Lawrence. I adore her real life sense of humor and loved her in Silver Linings Playbook.

6. A Blank Canvas.
As mentioned above, I've been trying to scale down a number of things in my life. One that has gotten desperately out of control is my nail polish collection. I had amassed nearly 500 bottles. I told myself I would never let it go above that number so I've donated many bottles, given some to friends and family and put others away to sell. When I get my collection whittled down to where I'm comfortable with it, I plan on painting a swatch mural. One of the reasons I love polish so much is because they remind me of miniature works of beauty. Art in a bottle. I'm very open-minded (as you'd have to be to acquire so many different colors) and love to look at all of the different shades, textures and shapes.

7. Shiseido Wrinkle Resist 24 Night Emulsion.
I've really been appreciating Japanese beauty products. Their quality and packaging are among the best in the world. They pay such close attention to detail. I wish I could go to one of their drug stores or spend time inside their shops. I actually got a Japanese Maybelline Hello Kitty mascara on eBay because I found it so precious. Americans can be so square when it comes to presentation. I really like Shiseido's skincare line. I still have their Future Solution cream on my wish list but for the time being, I'm trying out their Wrinkle Resist 24 range of products.

8. Urban Decay Glitter Liners.
As much as I love makeup (eyeliner in particular), I've only owned one or two glitter liners. I tried out Urban Decay's Spandex and fell in love. I picked up that along with Mullet, Midnight Cowboy and Stagedive. This is stunning for the evening!
















Now Playing: "Junk of the Heart" by The Kooks
*Wish they'd come back to Pittsburgh. Luke Pritchard stole my heart.

Big Lots Beauty Haul

Since I posted my first (albeit average) YouTube video, I decided to do an accompanying blog post. Here are the beauty product thats I hauled from Big Lots!

elf Hypershine Gloss in Fairy $1


Revlon Superlustrous Lipstick in 619 Rose & Shine $2


Diamond Cosmetics Eyeshadow Brush $1


elf Nail Polish in Desert Haze $1


Cover Girl Outlast Lipstain in 410 Bit of Blossom $2


elf Lip Gloss & Conditioner in Perfect Pink $2.50


Sally Hansen Salon Nail Lacquer in Navy Baby $1.50


Black Hand Mirror $2.50



Now Playing: Same Boy You've Always Known by The White Stripes

My First Beauty Video!

I've been watching YouTube beauty videos since spring 2006. I finally posted my own! I imagined that my first video would be something spectacular but I decided on a whim to just quickly do a recording. This was shot on my webcam at night talking about a small, Big Lots haul of all things. My hair wasn't fixed, my makeup was going on its 10th hour and my enthusiasm isn't quite there. But I had the courage and I ran with it! Whether my videos get 10 views or ten thousand, I'm happy to finally be participating in something that I was just a spectator in for so long :)

25th Birthday Haul!

My yummy cake! I blew all the candles out in one puff (well, with the exception of the 1 for good luck). You know you're getting old when you need 2 boxes of candles!
Yesterday, I had a very nice 25th Birthday! Since it fell on a rainy, Tuesday, I spent the day opening presents and hanging out with my family. At night, my sister and I went to the Cheesecake Factory and to see Black Swan at the movies. Today, my parents are taking me to dinner and this weekend, I'm going out with my friends to celebrate at the bars. Sunday is the Super Bowl, so hopefully my birthday week will cap off with a victory! I was really surprised at how many people wished me a happy birthday! It was so nice to hear from everyone :)

I got a few really nice gifts from my parents and my sister! But since I haven't officially launched my YouTube channel, I thought I'd do a haul blog instead.

My Dad got me the Canon Vixia HF M31 video camera! It's so lightweight and compact! I haven't had a chance to play around with it yet but it has great reviews and I think I'm going to love it! I'm going to use this camera to film my YouTube videos- so, no more excuses! As soon as I get down to my normal weight, I'll start filming! My Dad also got me a laptop case- much needed!


One of the things my Mom got me is something I really wanted. Since I turned 25, I wanted a keepsake that would remind me of this time in my life. My birthstone is amethyst but I didn't want a traditional purple stone. I saw green amethyst online and fell in love. It's also called praseolite. It's a very light green stone. My mom got me a gorgeous pair of earrings from one of the jewelers in downtown Pittsburgh! They are so sophisticated yet simple. I can wear them with just about anything! I LOVE them and will hopefully have them forever!


My sister knows how much I love make-up, so she got me some products and brushes from MAC! I'm really excited to finally have Satin Taupe (eyeshadow). It's the perfect neutral shade! She also got me some of the new, Revlon Colorburst lipsticks and lipglosses! They are one of my favorite products right now! Such a great value! I also got the Urban Decay Naked palette! I thought for sure it would be sold-out (as usual) but my Mom said she scored the last one at Ulta. It's the older set that includes the duo eyeliner not the brush! This made me so happy since I know they changed the packaging!



I also ordered a pair of KORS Michael Kors rain boots that arrived on my birthday! I got them from ShopBop.com on sale! I thought they were super cute and since it was raining on my birthday, I wore them out to dinner. They kind of remind me of Daria Morgendorffer's combat boots but they are still adorable. I think they will be perfect for all of the mud at Bonnaroo in June!

Stow Lace-up Rubber Boots

I'm so grateful for all my gifts and I'm excited to see what this year has in store for me! :)

Love,
Krista


Now Playing: "Fancy" by Drake