Maritime Naturals Vitamin C Serum

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Who is ready for the weekend? I must say, I'm very much ready for a day or two away from blog-land. Don't get me wrong, I love what I do, but sometimes a day without scheduling, emails, photo sessions, editing, swatching, emails, emails (did I mention emails?) is kind of nice. Also in the kind of nice category, is a serum I've been using for the past few weeks. You know I love serum, and I know a lot of you love serum, so let's take a moment to discuss the niceness that is Maritime Naturals Vitamin C Serum.

#TBT Nubar Jeans Collection

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A bit of a throwback on this hot (a kill me now kind of hot) Thursday. I'm not one to lose things, but I didn't even realize I had the Nubar Jeans Collection until I stumbled upon them a few weeks ago (while hunting for another colour.) The collection came out a few years ago (2011-ish?) and I guessing I picked these up around that time. The collection is essentially a more budget friendly version of the very popular Les Jeans de Channel polishes that came out around the same time. Remember them? I happen to love blue polishes, so I'm not quite sure how I went so long without wearing these. It's just not like me.The shades are all still available, so I thought now was the perfect time to try them out. Read on for a closer look at Nubar Faded Jeans, Boyfriend Jeans, and Dark Wash Jeans.

Smashbox Step-By-Step Contour Kit | Medium/Dark

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Everybody's crazy for contouring... Well, not everybody, I'm not much for the whole thing, although, I do enjoy highlight (or strobing as it's been dubbed.) I see the appeal though; a more chiseled look, more prominent contours, but it's an extra step that I can't see myself adding to my everyday makeup routine. That said, there are some great contour kits/palettes available that include everything you should you want to get a a Kim K sculpt (or something a little bit more natural.) Smashbox is one of such brands, who offers up such a kit: Smashbox Step-By-Step Contour Kit. They've recently introduced a second shade to their roster for medium and deep skin tones. I'm nowhere near the right skin tone to use it as a contour kit, but I thought I'd show it off for those who are as it's too good to pass up. Ready for a closer look?

THEFACESHOP Chia Seed Collection

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Ch-Ch-Ch-Chia! While we know chia seeds are good for more than those cute little pets, I can't help but think of them every time I think chia. The wonder seed is a nutrition power house as it's high in fibre, protein, calcium, and have more antioxidants than any other whole food (more than blueberries!) Not too shabby. Of course, they're also a viable in skincare, and are the core of THEFACESHOP Chia Seed Collection, which is formulated for dry and sensitive skin types. Interestingly enough, the humble chia seed is capable of absorbing ten times its weight in water. Interested in learning more? Read on!

Maybelline Colour Blur Cream Matte Lip Pencils

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Matte lips. They're definitely having a moment (a rather long moment, actually) but I've kind of been loving all of the matte options that have been popping up. A girl can never have too many options. Formulas have been re-designed to be much lass drying, and when it comes to the new Maybelline Colour Blur Cream Matte Lip Pencils, are completely different than your average matte. Want to know more? Of course you do...

Beauty Blog Coalition Weekly Roundup Vol. 46

Lola's Secret Beauty Blog: If you are a huge fan of BB Creams, then you really need to try L'OCCITANE Immortelle Precious BB Cream SPF 30! It's absolutely perfect for the summer!

TheFabZilla: Want or Need? TheFabZilla dissects Urban Decay Naked Smoky.

You decide!

Color Me So Crazy: Mud, Mud and MORE MUD From Borghese.. Find Out Why I Fell In LOVE!

Beauty on the Bayou: ELF vs. SARA HAPP LIP SCRUB

Painted Ladies: For nourished, healthy nails and cuticles, apply a healthy dose of Nail Butter

regularly!

Advice Sisters Beauty Fashion & Lifestyle Blog: the Advice Sisters have reviewed the brand new I Am Juicy Couture fragrance

Chameleon Stampede: Mandy tried Smashbox's best sellers

and found some great little staples to keep in her bag.

I Know all the Words: The perfect Canadian red lip made easy with Smashbox + Flare + Donald Robertson Be Legendary Lipstick in Canadian Flare

Beauty by Miss L: Does MAC False Lashes Extreme Black mascara really works as promised?

Fluttering Lashes: With summertime in full swing, stock up on the essential summer beauty buys!

Makeuprshutup: Is this a miracle cleanser? Stephanie puts it to the test...

Be Happy And Buy Polish: Ninja Polish Nebula is the sparkly glitter polish you've been looking for!

Endlessummer Blog: Save your hands and feet – enter Cheryl Lee MD Cracked Hands & Feet Kit giveaway

Notes from My Dressing Table: Have you met the LUNA by FOREO? Erika's love for this innovative skin care device is deep and it is real!

Never Say Die Beauty: Although Allison is obsessed by the Tarina Tarantino packaging, she loves the Eye Dream Hypershadow & created her version of a smokey eye and FOTD

Makeup Obsessed Mom: What does it take to get a brighter and healthier smile

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Yves Rocher White Botanical Exceptional Hydrating Cream

::: press sample :::

Last month I got an email from the very lovely Yves Rocher PR people detailing some new (and really innovative) products (stay tuned!) I submitted my request for a few items, but opted to skip one, as I'm kind of up to my eyeballs in skin care at the moment. That one product I was so willing to overlook? A new addition to the White Botanical range, Yves Rocher White Botanical Exceptional Hydrating Cream. I am so happy it was included anyway, because it just happens to be my new favourite moisturizer. Clearly their PR knows what's up with Yves Rocher products. Want to know more? You know what to do...

Smashbox + Flare + Donald Robertson Canadian Flare Be Legendary Lipstick

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Get excited Canadian lipstick lovers! Smashbox has a creation just for us that was born via a collaboration with Flare magazine and fashion illustrator Donald Robertson. Read on for a closer look at the limited edition, Sephora Canada exclusive, Smashbox + Flare + Donald Robertson Be Legendary Lipstick in Canadian Flare (and swatches, always swatches.)

Waterlogic Hybrid Water Purifier

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Pop quiz: what's a quick and easy way to improve your skin and overall well being? Do you have your answer? It's water! Plain old, life sustaining, water. I think most beauty buffs know increasing your water intake can really make a difference to skin and life in general. It's an essential part of life, and when done right, is a pleasant beverage. I say done right because not all water is created equally. I grew up drinking artesian well water, which is of pretty stellar quality, with a fresh, clean taste. It made me a very fussy water drinker when I lived away and was left with odd tasting 'city water'. To me, it always tasted like it should have been in a pool and not my glass. There are tons of options to deal with such situations, but one I wish I'd had is the Waterlogic Hybrid Water Purifier. It's a pretty neat gadget that makes clean, tasty water as simple as the push of a button.

Avon Metallic Fringe Top Coat

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I love shimmers, glitters, textures, mattes, jellies, cremes... Almost every polish finish is welcome on my nails, except... Crackles. I think they've died off though (crosses fingers.) Oh, and bar glitter. I don't hate it, I've just never been able to get all that exited about it. Bar glitter (or hairy glitter as I like to call it) is the main component of the new Avon Metallic Fringe top Coat collection. While bar glitter isn't my first choice, I kind of like some of these colour combos. Read on for a closer look!

Ayelet Naturals

How is everyone beating the heat? I don't know where you all call home, but in my little habitat, it's hella hot. Like, kill me now kind of hot. I'm not a fan of the heat, so that last statement might be just a tad dramatic. If you can take your mind off the heat for a moment, we can chat about a skin care brand that I've recently discovered. Deal? Ayelet Naturals happens to be the brand, which features a complete line of skin and body care products made with organically grown, wildcrafted, food-grade ingredients. Interested? Read on!

Beauty Blog Coalition Weekly Roundup Vol. 45

TheFabZilla: Less Coverage but Killa Pout. TheFabZilla shares her recent CC cream discovery, Osmosis + Colour CC Cream Color-Correcting Foundation

Lola's Secret Beauty Blog: DHC Beauty Lift Skincare Collection offers the perfect ultra-hydrating lightweight anti-aging products for the summer months.

Painted Ladies: Sheila has some sweet swatches of the new ColourPop Ultra Matte Lip colors.

Color Me So Crazy: I Have a GREAT Giveaway going on from LovelySkin.com! Bamboo Lemongrass Body Creme from LATHER!

Beauty and Fashion Tech: Giveaway! Win a Tria Age Defying Laser!

I Know all the Words: Quite possibly the prettiest summer collection yet- Lise Watier Rivages Collection for Summer 2015

Advice Sisters Beauty Fashion & Lifestyle Blog: Sun Screens You Will Actually Want to Use

Beauty by Miss L: Does paraben free multitasking AA Skincare Seaweed & Aloe Refreshing Eye Gel really work as promised?

Never Say Die Beauty: Allison is in love with butterLONDON Lip Crayons & is giving away 6 shades!

Be Happy And Buy Polish: Come see this hot summery manicure from Jessica!

Makeup Obsessed Mom: No more rough looking cuticles for Stacie

Beauty on the Bayou: MAKEUP SETTING SPRAY WAR – Skindinavia Bridal Spray vs. Model In A Bottle Sensitive Skin

Confessions of a Makeup Addict: Here's how to get effortless, beachy waves in no time!

Beauty Gala: Shimmer On Tutorial With Urban Decay's Ether Eyeshadow

Notes from My Dressing Table: Is the ISSA by FOREO everything it's cracked up to be? Erika breaks down the pros and cons of this sleek, modern oral care device.

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Mark Limited Edition Body Oil

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Friday Favourites! Okay, I don't normally (or ever) do Friday Favourites, but, if I did, the new limited edition Mark Body Oils would definitely get a spot. You might not expect a summer release for body oils, because really, who wants to slather on a coating of oil in the middle of the summer? Not I. But, these aren't your average oils. Intrigued? Read on!

Sothys Sensitive Skin Line with Spa Thermal Water

::: press sample :::

It's a skincare type of day. Well, maybe not, but I've been working my way through a lot of skincare , so it's going to be a skin care day. The products up for discussion today come from the Sothys Sensitive Skin Line which includes Spa Thermal Water. Interestingly, the Sothys Spa Thermal Water (which is technically named Marie-Heriette Natural Mineral Water) is sourced from a a protected area in the heart of the Belgian Ardennes. A little geographical appetizer before we get to the main course. Ready? Read on!

Lise Watier Rivages Collection | Summer 2015

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It's a gorgeously sunny day today, which only makes it extra appropriate to take a few minutes to chat about the Lise Watier Rivages Collection for summer 2015. The Riveages (aka seashore) Collection is filled with easily wearable, summery shades and casual neutrals with some new products and a few limited edition goodies in the mix. There's quite a bit to get to, so let's go!

The Body Shop Virgin Mojito | Summer 2015

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Fast fact: I love limes! I love them in just about any cold drinks come warmer weather, so it was easy for me to get really excited about The Body Shop's limited edition Virgin Mojito offerings for summer 2015. While I usually don't do virgin beverages (give me the hard stuff, please!) I can totally get behind this fresh and tangy scent. Read on for a rundown of what's what. 

Vapour Organic Beauty | Elixir Plumping Lip Gloss & Aura Multi Use Blush

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Have you ever looked at the ingredients on your makeup? There is a lot of stuff going on (fillers, fragrance, waxes, polymers, preservatives...), and most of it is almost impossible to pronounce little own decipher what it does. Sometimes it nice to take a simpler route, and opt for products with more natural ingredients. Vapour Organic Beauty happens to be one of those brands. Vapour Organic Beauty proves you don't have to sacrifice quality when opting for more natural beauty products. Read on for a closer look at Vapour Organic Beauty Elixir Plumping Lip Gloss & Aura Multi Use Blush.

Beauty Blog Coalition Weekly Roundup Vol. 44

TheFabZilla: This summer, TheFabZilla shares how she styles her cutoffs + tips on jealous-smooth legs!

Lola's Secret Beauty Blog: Looking for an attractive high quality cosmetics organizer with a huge capacity and a small price? Then you need the MelodySusie Large Acrylic Cosmetics Organizer!

I Know all the Words: It might not be quite as good as the name implies, but Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara gives lashes a major boost.

Color Me So Crazy: I have some FANTASTIC products from NeoCell PLUS a Giveaway!! Check it Out!!

Beauty by Miss L: Lookfantastic Beauty Box July 2015 box review

Advice Sisters Beauty Fashion & Lifestyle Blog: Oku is the world's first Mobile Based Skincare Coach for Iphone/iPod

Notes from My Dressing Table: Erika got herself some smooth, shiny waves and curls the easy way with the T3 Twirl 360 curling iron.

Painted Ladies: See some swell swatches of the new Butter London Bloody Brilliant Lip Crayons and enter to win a set valued at $140!

Never Say Die Beauty: Allison just replaced her 10 year old Sensi Spa Sandals with new pink ones: so cute and comfy

Grow It Girl: Life with dry or sensitive skin is rough. Tiki tackled the issue and provide her top five moisturizers for dry and sensitive skin.

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Derma e Hydrating Serum with Hyaluronic Acid

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I am a serum lover through and through. Honestly, who can't get behind a little serum? A concentrated boost of all kinds of good-for-skin ingredients just makes sense, especially when there is something out there for every age and skin type. Derma e happens to be a serum loving brand that offers six options to suit all serum needs. I've been using Derma e Hydrating Serum with Hyaluronic Acid to tame my dry skin and am... Well, read on to find out!

Coca-Cola x OPI Two to Celebrate Duo | Icons of Happiness Collection

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Two OPI posts in one week? Could it be? It can, and is. Mainly because I haven't taken any more pictures this week (blogger fail) but also because nail polish. I know not everyone love it as much as I do, but, nail polish. OPI is back in collaboration with Coca-Cola to bring us the Icons of Happiness Collection. The collection consists of most of the shades from the last Coke collab (all but Today I Accomplished Zero and Orange You Fantastic! are back) but with two new additions. The new shades- Visions of Georgia Green and Centennial Celebration- are available in a cute little set to celebrate the 100th Anniversary og the classic Coca-Cola bottle. Read on for a look at the Coca-Cola x OPI Two to Celebrate Duo (and swatches, obviously!)

Vichy Pureté Thermale Cleansers

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I know, cleansers aren't the sexiest of all the skincare world, but they're most certainly essential. The clear the canvas (so to speak) for the other products to get to work, and really, is there a better feeling than a freshly washed face at the end of the day? I'm a pretty devout Vichy fan, but the new Pureté Thermale cleansers in my life have made me an extra happy fan-girl. Read on for a look at a brand classic, and two all new additions to the Vichy Pureté Thermale family.

OPI Nail Envy "Strength in Colour"

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I have a love hate relationship with my nails. When they behave, it's a full on love-fest, but when the decide to be little hellions that peel, weaken, and break? Not so much. I have a few fixes for those occurrences, one of which being the original OPI Nail Envy. There are actually a few different formulations for varying nail issues, but I quite like the original as it works to treat and protect nails. What's that? Ooh, good question. What if you want a little colour with your care... Then the new OPI Nail Envy "Strength in Colour" are perfect for you. Want to learn more? Read on!

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara

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Happy mascara Monday! Okay, it's not really a thing I do all that often, but when it works out, you kind of have to go with it. The mascara in the spotlight today is Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara (a bold claim, but really, are we not dealing with an apples and oranges kind of situation here?) Name aside, I've tried it, tested it, and am ready to give you all the 'deets. Read on!

Beauty Blog Coalition Weekly Roundup Vol. 43

Lola's Secret Beauty Blog: In case you haven't heard, the FOREO LUNA is a seriously effective cleaning and anti-aging skincare device, and FOREO is currently offering Lola's Secret Beauty Blog readers an exclusive discount!

Color Me So Crazy: My Look for 4th of July... All from NYC New York Color!

TheFabZilla: TheFabZilla shares her Top 5 Beach Getaway Staples!

Painted Ladies: Everyone's talking about strobing! Sheila breaks down this makeup technique with Palladio The Definer Pencil.

I Know all the Words: Your best skin made easy with Jurlique Herbal Recovery Advanced Serum

Beyond Beauty Lounge: Finding Balance with Tula Probiotic Skincare

Beauty by Miss L: Blow dry your hair like a pro with Centrix Heat Boss Brush

Be Happy And Buy Polish: If you like to do nails with your child, Jessica has reviewed some Mommy & Me nail decals on her blog this week!

Never Say Die Beauty: Enter Allison's StriVectin Repair & Protect Moisturizer SPF30 giveaway!

The Fast Five | Polish Picks For Toes & Tips

It's summer (yay!) which means you're likely going to be sporting some type of cute, toe bearing footwear. Why be caught with bland (or, perish the thought,) bare nails. Toes are prime colour real-estate, and the perfect opportunity to rock a shade you wouldn't normally weer on your fingers. In this edition of The fast Five, I'll share with you some of my favourite shade combos for summer. Read on!

Jurlique Herbal Recovery Advanced Serum

I like skincare, and usually find enjoyment in my morning/evening routine, but every so often I get complacent (and a touch lazy) and end up backsliding. Don't judge me, we've all been there. I was in one of those funks when the Jurlique Herbal Recovery Advanced Serum came into my life, and subsequently whipped my skin back into shape. Actually, its even better then before. Interested in this gem of a product? Read on!