Swatches + Review: Nars NARSissist Unfiltered I Cheek Palette (Limited Edition)

Nars NARSissist Unfiltered I Cheek Palette ($59, Limited Edition) - The palette is made of plastic and comes with a full size mirror. Each pan is exactly the same size as the deluxe sample size and contains 3.5g/0.12oz of product. (Nars' full size blushers each contain 0.16oz/4.8g for $30; therefore the palette is valued at $131.25.)

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Swatches + Review: Nars Nordstrom's Best Cheek Palette + Dior Intemporalle Blush Palette

Nars Nordstrom's Best Cheek Palette ($65, Limited Edition) - The palette has the standard Nars rubber packaging and is very sleek. It's valued at $124. Each pan is exactly the same size as the deluxe sample size. 

Scent: It's fragrance-free.

Shades: It comes with 4 blushes, a highlight and a bronzer. So, it basically has all the cheek products that you need and is great for travel. 

• Orgasm (3.5g/0.12oz) is a peachy pink with gold shimmers.
• Deep Throat (3.5g/0.12oz) is a soft pink with a golden sheen. When compared to Orgasm, Deep Throat leans more coral and is less shimmery.
• Albatross (3.5g/0.12oz) is a pale ivory with gold shimmers. When applied to the tops of my cheekbones, it leaves a gorgeous golden sheen and does not look chalky at all. This is a shade that you have to try on your skin because swatches do not do it justice.
• Luster (3.5g/0.12oz) is an apricot shade with a golden sheen.
• Desire (3.5g/0.12oz) is a cotton candy pink with a matte finish. It looks bright when swatched on my arms, but when applied to my cheeks, it looks more wearable and flattering on my warm, NC30/35 skin tone.
• Laguna (3g/0.1oz) is a brown with gold shimmers. The one in the palette looks more neutral toned compared to the deluxe sample, which looks warmer. 

Formula: The pigmentation is sheer, but can easily be layered. They also blend into the skin nicely and are very easy to work with.

Longevity: I generally don't have issues with cheek products in terms of longevity. The ones in the Nars palette last at least 8 hours without fading when worn over foundation + setting powder. (For reference, I have cheeks that are neither dry nor oily.)

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Swatches + Review: Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighters and Sephora x Disney Minnie's Inner Glow

Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter in Opal

(retails $38 for 8g/0.28oz)

Packaging: I got the travel size (2.4g/0.085oz) as a free gift with purchase. The compact is made of plastic instead of Becca's typical rubber packaging. It's also perfect for travel! 

Color: Opal is a champagne shade with gold shimmers. This shade works best as a highlighter for my warm NC30/35 skin tone as it does not add any color to my skin. 

Formula: The Becca Shimmering Skin Perfectors have a very soft, delicate, and creamy texture. They're also very pigmented and a little goes a long way. In terms of performance, they all apply smoothly, blend with ease and just "melt" right into the skin.

They're not as metallic as say, the Mac Extra Dimension Skinfinishes (review), but they're by no means subtle and still provide a high sheen finish. To apply, I recommend using the Inglot 4SS brush (comparison pictures) because it's dense enough to provide a concentrated finish, but it also has enough flexibility to blend product well. The shape also fits nicely on the bridge of the nose and on top of the cheekbones without covering too much area. For a more subtle glow, use a light hand and a fluffy synthetic brush, such as the MUFE #140 or check out the highlighter in the poured version. 

Longevity: All the Becca Shimmering Skin Perfectors last at least 10 hours when worn over foundation + setting powder. (For reference, I have cheeks that are neither dry nor oily.)

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Swatches + Review: Nars Long Hot Summer Eyeshadow Palette, Orgasm Blush, Audacious Lipsticks and Velvet Lip Liners

(Direct Sunlight)

Nars Long Hot Summer Eyeshadow Palette ($45, Limited Edition) - The palette is about three-fourth the size of my hand and measures approximately 3.80 inches x 0.25 inches x 2.20 inches. It's very sleek and travel-friendly. Each shade contains 0.03oz/1g of product. Nars' individual eyeshadows retail $25 (with compact) for 0.07oz/2.2g and $18 in pan form.

• Long Hot Summer I is a shimmering cream.
• Long Hot Summer II is a bronze taupe with a shimmery finish.
• Bellissima II is a matte gray-brown. This shade is also available in the duo compact. 
• Long Hot Summer III is a shimmering copper.
• Long Hot Summer IV is a shimmering warm brown.
• Bengali is a matte rich chocolate brown. Out of all the shades in this palette, Bengali is the only one that's available individually. 

Formula: The eyeshadows have great pigmentation, layer well and blend easily. Just make sure to tap off any excess before applying so you don't experience major fallout. I usually apply my eye makeup before foundation so I can easily wipe away any shimmers that have fallen down my cheeks or underneath my eyes. 

Longevity: They last at least 8 hours without fading or creasing. (For reference, I have extremely oily lids and always wear a primer underneath as a base.)

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Swatches + Comparisons: Benefit Cheekathon vs Tarte Tarteist Blush Palette

Benefit Cheekathon Blush & Bronzer Palette ($58, Limited Edition) 

Packaging: It comes with 4 full-size blushes, including Dandelion (0.25oz), Rockateur (0.17oz), Dallas (0.32oz) and Coralista (0.28oz), a full-size Hoola matte bronzer (0.28oz), a brush made of natural bristles and a sizable mirror. Each shade retails $29, which makes the value of the palette to be $145!

I never bought Benefit's individual blushes because I find the cardboard packaging to be too bulky. The palette is actually not as thick and is a huge space saver compared to buying the blushes/bronzer individually. (It measures 7 inches x 0.85 inches x 5 inches.) It may not be as travel-friendly as the Tarte Tarteist palette, but I would still take this with me on trips, especially if I'm going to be out of town for more than a week and want to create various looks. I just love that all the shades are conveniently laid out in one palette. 

The insert is removable and pops out easily. So, you can use the box for storing little trinkets when you finish the palette. You can also depot the pans and pop them into an empty Z Palette. 

The brush reminds me of the NARS Ita (review), except the Benefit one is a little bit wider and denser. It works really well for contouring because it's narrow enough to fit nicely on the hollows of the cheeks and fluffy enough to blend out any harsh lines with ease. For blush application, I prefer a domed-shaped brush, such as the Sonia Kashuk #29 (review) because it covers the entire cheek area more evenly and lightly. I also love that the pans are wide enough to fit any type of brush easily.  

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Swatches + Review: Collective Haul (MUFE, MAC, Chanel, Urban Decay)

I'm back with another haul! Some of these items are re-purchases, while others have been in my collection for a while now and have been rigorously tested. 

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Swatches: MAC Vibe Tribe, Brooke Candy, Simpsons, Style Warriors and Indulge Collection (Limited Edition)

I recently purchased a few goodies from MAC's Vibe Tribe 2016 Summer Collection and plan on picking up the Adobe Brick blush as well, which I will review in a later post.

When I was going through my stash to check for possible dupes, I realized that there were a few limited edition MAC products that I never reviewed on my blog. I decided to include them in this post because maybe you guys have forgotten about them too and this may remind you to use them again? You can also call your nearest CCO (The Cosmetics Company Store) to see if they still have them in stock. (The CCO carries products from Estee Lauder-owned companies, including MAC, Clinique, Bobbi Brown, Origins, Smashbox and Lab Series, and sells them for around 30% off retail price.)

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Swatches + Comparisons: Burberry Light Glow Blush in Blossom No.05 (New Formula)

Burberry Light Glow Blush in No.05 Blossom ($42 for 7g/0.24oz)

Packaging: The compact has a magnetic closure and a sizeable mirror. (It's worth noting that the compact does not open all the way.) The product is embossed with the signature check print and although it doesn't go all the way through the pan, the pattern lasts a good amount of uses before fading. (For me, the pattern lasted about a few months with daily use.) 

It also comes with a velvet pouch that protects the case during travel as well as an angled mini brush. The bristles are made of natural hair and feels softer than the original version. In terms of performance, I find that both are too narrow for blush application even after washing, and is more suitable for contouring. (Natural brushes tend to fluff out after the initial wash.) Keep in mind that the brush will suffice and get the job done when you're on the go. I just prefer my full-size brushes in general because they're easier to hold and to work with.  

Scent: As soon as I open the compact and during application, I notice a very strong, but pleasant floral scent. It dissipates after a few seconds. (I've had the original version for more than 5 years and the fragrance is still noticeable.) 

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Swatches + Review: Drugstore Haul (Milani, Revlon, L'oreal)

Out of all the foundations in the market (drugstore, mid-range and high-end), the Revlon ColorStay and L'oreal Infallible Pro-Matte are one of the best foundations for those with combination and oily skin because of their lasting power. However, the way you prep the skin can make or break the results of both foundations. 

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Swatches + Review: NARS Laguna Tiare Bronzer, Mie Kabuki Brush + Goulue Blush

After trying out the NARS Velvet Matte Skin Tint (review), I decided to check out more products from the brand. Besides the items mentioned in this post, I also purchased some of their loose and pressed powders, which I will review later. 

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Swatches + Review: MAC Haul (Blush, Eyeshadows, Paint Pot & Foundation)

This is really a collective haul of items that I purchased over the past few months. 

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Review + Swatches - Chanel Sunkiss Ribbon Blush + Infiniment Illuminating Powder

You all know I bought the Chanel Sunkiss Ribbon blush and Infiniment Illuminating powder because of their gorgeous embossments. The big question is: Are they just nice to look at or do they wear nice on the skin as well?

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Review + Swatches - Milani Baked Blushes

I made a separate post on the Physicians Formula Happy Booster blushes
because it was becoming too "picture heavy."

Milani Baked Blush ($8.49 3.5g/0.12oz)

The Milani blushes cost a little bit less than the ones from Physicians Formula (PF), but they also contain half the amount of product. Regardless, they still last at least a few months when worn daily because the formula is more pigmented and allows you to use less product. On my cheeks, they last at least 10 hours when worn over foundation and setting powder. 

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Review + Swatches - Physicians Formula Happy Booster Blushes

The drugstore is always having a "buy one, get one off" sale and since brands usually come out with products in multiple shades, it's difficult to not want to collect them all. ^_^

You can check out my review on the Milani Baked blushes here.

I decided to separate the posts because it was becoming too long and "picture heavy."

Physicians Formula Happy Booster
Glow & Mood Boosting Blush ($11.95 for 7g/0.24oz)

Although these blushes are on the "expensive" side for a drugstore brand, the quality is well worth the price point. The formula is very easy to work and lasts at least 8 hours on the cheeks when worn over foundation and setting powder. They're suppose to smell like sweet violet, but I couldn't detect any scent during application. As for the pigmentation, they're all sheer, but easily buildable for an opaque finish. They also leave a subtle glow to the skin without being too frosty. 

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Swatches + Comparison - Collective Haul of Cheek Products

I've been really enjoying products that leave a nice sheen to my skin without the glittery mess. 

The ones mentioned in this post have been great at perking up my dull winter skin.

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Swatches + Comparisons - Collective Haul (Guerlain, Nars, Urban Decay, MUFE)

I had some of these products for a few months and others for a few years. -_-
I decided to group them together in one big post with mini reviews instead of making separate posts.

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Swatches: Tarte Cosmetics 500 Point Perk at Sephora

I hoard my Sephora points and rarely redeem them because they rarely offer any goodies that I'm interested in. They came out with the Tarte Cosmetics 500 Point Perk ($45.98 value) last week and I placed an order to redeem it. As most of you know, for every dollar that you spend at Sephora, you get 1 point. Some of you guys may feel that I paid $500 for the Tarte 500 Point Reward. However, I don't see it that way. I see the Tarte 500 Point Reward as a bonus on top of the $500 worth of makeup products that I bought. Also, even if Sephora terminated their rewards program, I would still buy my cosmetics from them because they have an extensive line of beauty products, an amazing return policy, and awesome discounts without limitations throughout the year.

Tarte Lights Camera Lashes 4-in-1 Mascara 0.10oz ($7.92) - The full size costs $19/0.24oz. It volumizes, darkens and separates my lashes well, but since it's non-waterproof, I can't wear it. Non-waterproof mascaras tend to weigh my lashes down and don't hold my curl. Unfortunately, the Tarte one was no different.

Tarte Amazonian Clay Finishing Powder 0.07oz ($6.34) - The full size costs $29/0.32oz. It's transparent, mattifies my skin and leaves my skin silky smooth, but my NARS Light Reflecting Pressed Setting Powder controls my oils better. (I have an extremely oily t-zone.)

Tarte Amazonian Clay Waterproof Cream Eyeshadow 0.1oz ($19) - I received the full size! The Maybelline cream eyeshadows (0.14oz each) look much bigger than the Tarte ones, but they contain almost the same amount of product. The Tarte one is definitely more travel friendly and feels more lightweight. Shimmering Moss has a more olive undertone compared to Mossy Green, which is more green and Gold Shimmer is more gold. I find that the formula of the Tarte one is creamier and doesn't dry as fast as the Maybelline one. I love using Shimmering Moss as a base for MAC Sumptuous Olive. It makes the powder eyeshadow more intense, lengthens the wear-time and prevents creasing & fading.

Tarte Pure Maracuja Oil 0.23oz ($6.22) - The full size costs $46/1.7oz. Alot of people love this product. Unfortunately, I find it to be greasy even when I use only a tiny drop and it doesn't sink into my skin. It feels like it's just sitting on top of my skin and I'm scared to lie in bed because I'm afraid that I'll get my pillow case all oily. (You all know how oil can be impossible difficult to remove.)

Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-hour Blush in Exposed

Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush in Exposed 0.05oz ($6.50) - The full size costs $26/0.2oz. This was the main reason I redeemed the 500 Point Reward. Everyone seems to rave about the color and I want to get in on the action too! Also, the packaging is so cute and it's so convenient for travel. Exposed is more rosy, while Prim & Proper is more nude. Both are my go-to neutral shades when I'm doing a day time look or when I don't know which blush to match my eye makeup. You can't go wrong with either shade in any situation. They both have regular pigmentation (not sheer or too pigmented) and are buildable. Also, they last at least 8 hours without fading when applied on top of liquid foundation + setting powder. Prim & Proper is discontinued and difficult to find, but fortunately, Exposed is still in production.

(Indoor Natural Lighting)

(Outdoor Natural Lighting on a Cloudy Day)

(Outdoor Natural Lighting on a Sunny Day)

Note: The Tarte Cosmetics 500 Point Perk is sold out on Sephora's website, but is still available in some Sephora stores. Call your local Sephora store!

Which Sephora 500 Point Perk was your favorite?

*This post contains affiliate links.

Swatches + Comparison - MAC Archie's Girls Flatter Me + Cream Soda + Prom Princess Blush (Limited Edition)

Hey beauties! I'm so sorry that I haven't been posting regularly. The MBA program is killing me! -_- I know that the MAC Archie's Girls Collection is sold out in stores, but you can still find it at the CCO in the next couple of months and you all know how MAC loves to repromote their products. This post would be great as a future reference. Also, I know alot of you guys enjoy looking at swatches and pictures of beauty products, regardless if you can get a hold of them or not. So, that's why I decided to do this post. ^_^

(MAC Pearlmatte Face Powder in Flatter Me)

(MAC Cream Soda)

(MAC Prom Princess)

MAC Prom Princess is a bright violet pink with a satin finish that's neither shimmery nor completely matte. It's super pigmented and needs to be applied with a light hand and fluffy brush. I recommend using a stippling brush like the MAC 187 because the synthetic bristles allow product to be picked up lightly and dispersed evenly without leaving a clownish finish. I have received a few compliments about this, but I still find that MAC Dirty Plum suits me better because it's not as bright or cool toned as Prom Princess. I have a medium warm complexion and find that warmer shades compliment my skin tone much better. So, I tend to gravitate more towards shades like Dirty Plum when I'm doing a night time look. Prom Princess still works with my skin tone, but it's not my favorite blusher and it's definitely more appropriate for those with a cooler skin tone.

MAC Cream Soda is a light peachy shade with a satin finish when swatched on my arm. When applied onto my NC30/35 skin tone, it translates into a gorgeous coral pink shade that's perfect for an everyday look. I was worried that it wouldn't look well on me because it looks so pastel and light when swatched, but it actually warms up to the skin really well and easily shows up on my skin tone. I use a regular blush, such as the Studio Gear #13 brush, to apply it and don't find the need to layer it because it's so pigmented. However, it's easier to work with compared to Prom Princess because the color is lighter. 

MAC Flatter Me is a light peachy pink shade that leaves the skin looking glowy, but definitely not glittery or frosty. It's very sheer, but when I layer it, it looks exactly like Cream Soda. The only difference is that it gives me a gorgeous sheen. 

I have no issues with the wear of any of these products. They all last on my cheeks for at least 8 hours without fading when worn on top of liquid foundation + setting powder.

(Natural Lighting)

(Direct Sunlight)

Bottom Line: I'm totally digging the cute packaging and love pairing Cream Soda with Flatter Me to create a natural flush of color and subtle sheen. However, if you're on a tight beauty budget, then I recommend getting just Cream Soda and just apply your own highlighter on top of it or just get Flatter Me if you don't mind having to layer it to get color payoff. I can live without Prom Princess because Dirty Plum suits me better, but it's still nice to have as a backup for night time looks. 

Note: The MAC Powder Blush in Prom Princess and Cream Soda contains 6g/0.21oz each and retails for $22 each. The MAC Pearlmatte Face Powder in Flatter Me contains 10g/0.35oz and retails for $30. They are all limited edition and available at Nordstrom, while supplies last.

Did you get anything from the Archie's Girls Collection?

*This post contains affiliate links. None of the products mentioned are sponsored.