Nude Mood

Im really into keeping it au natural when it comes to this Summer's makeup routine. I find myself shying away from the bold pinks and vibrant reds and opting for anything browny/mauve on the lips and nails. Where did this nude attitude come from you ask? Definitely from revamping my wardrobe into a haven of essentials (t-shirts, button downs, and basic denim). I think that if I keep my beauty bits basic (say that 5 times fast), I'll definitely be able to overcome my newb makeup skills! Oh and can I get a pat on the back for finally finding good nudes that are predominantly drugstore!? #Winning!!

Loreal Polish in Mauvelous (heh)

Nyx Butter Gloss in Praline

Nyx Lip liner in 811 Nutmeg

Sephora lip last in 04 Brown is back

The Maple VoxBox

Really? Another beauty box review? I know, I know. Just hear me out on this one.

 The number one problem that I've faced with previous beauty boxes (cough cough Luxe box*) was that I was not getting my moneys worth from the samples I received. While I may have received a single full sized item, many of the "deluxe" samples could be picked up for free at a beauty counter. Now I am not sure if this company has improved since my last box, but I think I've found a beauty box that many of you may be interested in.

What's a VoxBox?

Voxbox by Influenster is a beauty box filled with drugstore goodies featuring makeup, skincare, and snacks. While many Voxboxes are unique, this first box I received was filled with 7 full-sized products! Oh and that's not the best part. This beauty box is free (Say what!?)! Ok, ok, nothing in life is free right? In return for receiving this box for free, Influenster asks its members to share the box through social media sites such as instagram, twitter, and Facebook. Whether its giving reviews or showing off what ya got, Influenster wants you to influence others with these amazing brands. So if you use social media and love talking about beauty products, become a member at www.influenster.com !

My Thoughts

The fact that VoxBox features drugstore products is amazing! A majority of my everyday makeup consists of drugstore items because being a full-time student doesn't provide me with the cash flow for higher end products. Therefore after using the dead sea mud mask, purchasing it won't break the bank. The amount of full-sized products also blows my mind. This helps with using a product more than once in order to give an accurate review as to whether or not I like it. Last but not least is the versatility of the products given. from tasty snacks to glam lashes, this box ticks off many lifestyle goodies. Below I have listed some quick reviews of the products sent to me.

Skinny Cow Heavenly Crisp and Dreamy Clusters- These milk chocolate bars and clusters are so tasty! My favorite is the heavenly crisp. Its crunchy and airy yet so flavourful. At only 100 calories, I won't feel guilty for buying a few more.

NYC Plumping Lip Gloss and Big Bold Curl Mascara - When first applied the lip gloss gives a light minty/tingly feeling hence for the plumping effect. Im guessing to compliment fuller lips the gloss feels a bit heavy, is quite glossy and is a bit sticky. It also smells like vaseline which I'm not too fond of. I have not tried the mascara yet but I'm looking forward to it because volume and curl are the top two things I look for in a mascara!

Montagne Jeunesse Clay Spa - This mask made my skin feel super smooth and very clean. When applied it has a strong minty and cooling sensation which almost made me think I was having an allergic reaction. Even though I didn't listen to the instructions to test the product before use, I was perfectly fine and my skin couldn't thank me enough for that deep cleanse.

imPress press on manicure - I have a love/hate relationship with these press on nails. The design is not to my liking at all. I may have worn bright colourful polka dots when I was 6, but now at 20 I'd like to sit and blend in at the adult table. When it comes to nail designs I go for things like houndstooth, and maybe the occasional cheetah print. Despite the design, these nails last about a week on me which was a shocker. I had tried these before in the summer and didn't expect the glue or tape to be so strong. Like I did previously, I plan on painting over them with a pretty colour for Fall.

Ice Breakers Duo - These mints are ok, but later leave a weird aftertaste in your mouth. The Duo is a combination of a fruity and minty taste which I'm not a fan of. I love icebreakers but only if its one flavour at a time.

Big thank you to Influenster for sending and letting me participate in the first Canadian VoxBox.

What are your thoughts on beauty boxes?

Holiday Gift Ideas

Gift Ideas by eyefourstyle

Ahh, it's the most wonderful time of year again ain't it? While your wallet may not think so hopefully i'll change it's mind with these gift ideas under $100! To be completely honest I was creating a Christmas wish list for myself when I then realized a lot of these gifts can be pleasing to some other ladies and fellas out there as well. If you're a last minute Christmas shopper like myself (that's when you get the best deals anyway!) hopefully these items give you some inspiration for that special someone.

Panama Hat - Urban Outfitters $39 // I've been on the hunt for the perfect wool fedora. Ideally a brim that's structured yet partially floppy like a sun hat. Luckily I spotted this baby last time in store and fell in love. The leatherette band with a buckle just adds the right amount of oomph to this piece.

Belkin Armband - Best Buy $25 // If you know anyone who likes to workout in the gym or on the street, an armband can come in handy for them. Not only do they hold your phone while listening to music, but many can store cards and cash while you're on the run.

Beanie - Aldo $12 // Whether it's for a girl or guy, beanies are an essential simply because they keep your noggin toasty. Since many of us live in black during the colder months, a heather grey beanie is a nice way to break up a constant monochromatic look.

Olympic Mittens - The Bay $10 // The first time I came across these statement mitts were during a game of greedy grinch (the dirty version of secret santa). I had stolen them from someone and sadly later on they were stolen from me. Since then I thought that they would make an amazing gift for fellow Canadians as we support our team for the 2014 games in Russia!

Sam Edelman cheetah booties - Little Burgundy $90 // If you are searching for a statement piece for someone look no further! ....Okay, okay these booties may not be to everyones liking but I find that many girls have at least a slight attraction toward cheetah print. Personally, I like my cheetah print in small doses. Accessories such as phone cases, scarves, and lingerie satisfy my girly side (and are also great stocking stuffers!). From the low heel to sleek almond toe these booties will add an amazing touch of femininity. 

Sam Edelman Circus booties - Little Burgundy $70 // I know, I know, again with the booties? Let me quickly just express my love for these shoes. They provide you with that closed toe warmth essential for this time of year and spice up your denim whether it's skinny or boyfriend. These booties also give you a bit of height but yet are comfortable enough for everyday wear. While they are a classic black leather, the elasticated back keeps things interesting.

Stila in the Light Palette - Sephora $50 // A neutral eye makeup palette is an amazing gift for makeup beginners (such as myself) and those who like a basic everyday look. Personally I prefer this than the highly coveted Naked palette (gasp!). It is $12 cheaper, the colours are well pigmented, and it includes an eyeliner! Now for my fellow winged eyeliner ladies you'll definitely love this.

Seaweed Cleansing face wash - The Body Shop $13 // If you or one of your friends have oily/combination skin like myself this should work wonders. I've been using this gel cleanser for 3 months now and it has definitely normalized the oils in my skin, alongside my increased intake of water. 

Vitamin E nourishing night cream - The Body $20 // As the months get colder, many of us may suffer from dry skin. Treating it at night with a thick night cream should have you waking up with super soft and nourished skin. Just like the seaweed cleanser, I've been using this for 3 months and it is currently my favorite product in my skincare routine. This cream is a bit pricey but keep an eye out for 50% off skincare sales which The Body Shop does regularly.

Moto pleather Pants - H&M $35 // Leather pants are so sexy (my boyfriend begs to differ). If you know a certain someone who loves a good leather jacket, they may also love these trendy pair of pants. The zippers add that extra bit of edge and the button closure makes it dressier than a leather legging. Even though my mother has already beat me to it, hopefully I get to style a pair one day.

Maxi Cardigan - H&M $40 // Basic cardigans hit your waist, while statement cardigans hit the floor! This cardi is a stylish way to keep warm this winter and would look amazing with that panama hat above! Oh and keep an eye out for the latest H&M magazine because there's a coupon at the back, wink*.

Hope you all enjoyed this! 

What are some of your last minute gift ideas?