Valentines Day: Gifts for Him

Many girls think that Valentine's day is their day to get spoiled. But I think men should get spoiled too. I understand that it can get difficult to shop for a guy so that is why this post is here to help. I picked out a few things as inspiration. These are items that I know a guy would appreciate. Some pricier and some more affordable. You have to work with what you have. Drumrollllll please...

#1. Cologne

Cologne is a classic gift. Yes, its boring but you can't go wrong with making your man smell good. Plus, the Azzaro Chrome cologne smells amazing. This is also very affordable. You can get it on sale at Target for under $25.Chrome at Target

#2 A Good Laugh

There are two things that everyone likes to receive. Everyone one loves a good laugh. And everyone loves a compliment, yes even guys. So pick him up some cool t-shirts. Guys can never have enough t-shirts. These are two that I thought we appropriate for Valentines day. Just make sure to let him know that you agree with the shirt. Funny t-shirts from Spencer's Gifts

#3 Relaxation

After a long day a guy sometimes just wants to go home, watch a game, and enjoy a drink. This will can be the perfect gift for that. Make him a kit with his drink of choice. Pick up a bottle of his favorite whiskey and include a box of whiskey stones. Whiskey stones a stones cut into cubes designed to keep drink cold without diluting it. You can pick them up at TJ Maxx, Target, and party stores for around $10.00. If you want to class it up a bit you can also include a decanter, it will make any bottle of alcohol look like much fancier. If this is a last minute gift just buy a whiskey, some beers, and make a gift basket with his favorite snacks. Like the saying goes, the way to his heart is through his stomach. Lol.  Decanter at Macy's

#4 Cuff Links
Cuff links may not seem like the best option for every guy. Of course it's a no brainer for the guys who dress up everyday for work but this can actually be a pretty cool gift for the t-shirt and sneakers type of guy. You can get them a set that matches their personality. They are sort of like a charm bracelet for men. They can use them to show off their style even when forced to wear a tie and it will take their business attire to the next level. Cuff links at Macy's

#5 Luxury Street Style
Hats are can be the finishing touch to a perfect outfit. If you really want to spoil your significant other pick them up one of these luxury hats from Mint Creations. He will be like a kid on Christmas morning. They range from $75.00 to $275.00 and are worth every penny. They are hand made with only the best materials including ostrich, Italian lambskin, stingray, python, and silk. This will be something he will want to show off to all his friends. If you can't get it on time, you can still make it a special surprise. Give him and envelope some sexy pictures of yourself and slip one of the hat you got him, he will really appreciate both. This is obviously a great gift year round, maybe even include some tickets to a game. Just get creative, regardless he will love it!
More hats from Mint Creations.

Some other great gifts ideas not included are a bluetooth speaker (you can never have too many of those), his favorite meal, tickets to see his favorite team play, a nice watch, workout gear, and any activity he has not stopped talking about lol. Sometimes they are honestly saying what they want but we don't listen. Don't forget that the best gift is LOVE! I know it's cheesy but its true, so make sure you tell everyone how much you love them everyday. Happy Valentine's Day glamouristas!

I recently turned 25 and with that came a lot of new interest. I have slowly been  finding myself as a person. I have always been very intuitive and have known who I am but now I am realizing that every aspect of my life contributes to what makes me...me. Being glamorous is not only about looks, it's a way of life. That is why I will be extending this blog to be a lifestyle blog. I will share my ideas on everything from cooking to travel. I will of course still post beauty related items because those are the roots of this blog.  I just want to share who I am with all of you. So I hope you guys like the new project and like always any comments are greatly appreciated. There is always room for improvement. I also want to thank all those who even after my overly extended break from the blog are still supporting me. If I didn't have your support and enthusiasm this may have just become a forgotten thought. Thank you, thank you, thank you, and a million more.

Freebie Friday!

If you haven't heard of the YouTube sensation Tori Kelly, it's time you did! She has the best vocals and is finally getting her name out which is well over due. Today I bring you guys her latest song "Dear No One". This is definitely a real anthem for the single hopeless romantic. Right now can get this single for free on iTunes. But don't just stop at this song. Her whole album is a must as well as her past albums. All I can say is FINALLY. There is a respectable artist who isn't winning people over with her body and has great vocals.

Freebie Friday!

Hello, Glam Geeks! It has been a while since I've posted but i was on vacation welcoming my beautiful niece to the world. Well, now that I'm back i wanna share an awesome freebie for you apple users. It comes curtesy of Sephora and designer Marc Jacobs. If you check out the Sephora Shares section of the Sephora ipad/iphone app or go on to www.sephora.com/sephorashares, you will find some goodies. You have until December 31st to download an exclusive Marc Jacobs playlist and a photo editing app, both for free! So hurry up and take advantage of this offer. 

Beauty Buzz: Easy Winged Eyeliner

The trick is small strokes! For the details check our my instagram... @glamouristaeli 

Rants & Raves: Michel Mercier Detangling Brush

I think its best to start this review telling you all about my hair type because I do think it will make a difference on how the product works for you. I have what is considered long hair. It normal thickness but at times can get a bit coarse. It is on the straighter side of wavy. I chemically treat it so it is a dry and damaged. And finally I do get some tangles but no a crazy amount that I cant control. So with that said today I will be reviewing the Michel Mercier Detangling Brush.

Product: Michel Mercier "Professionnel" Hair Brush

Product Claim: Smooth detangling with no resistance, less breakage, and reduced hair loss.

Price: $15-$20

Availability: Available at most drugstores

Pros: There are only a few pros that I found when using this product. The first is that it is readily available at several locations. Second, it comes in a variety of options to suit different hair types. I particularly like that feature because each hair type has its own needs. And lastly it did reduce how much of my hair breaks of when brushing.

Cons: It's on the higher end of pricing for a brush made of plastic. I know I saw it several times and thought about buying it until I saw the price, luckily I was able to get one for free. I am definitely not a fan of the way the product is built. I feel the plastic makes it less durable, the colors make them look tacky as opposed to higher end, and the ergonomics of the handle aren't as natural feeling and comfortable as I would prefer. And lastly, I don't think it made a huge significance in reducing tangles in my hair. 

Overall Opinion: If you can get this brush for $10 or less go for it. I think it would work best for people who have a lot of hair. For healthy hair the difference wouldn't be enough to justify the purchase. I think I would also recommend this for curly hair. I guess I don't hate this brush but also wouldn't pay too much for it. So should you buy this?... ummmmm idk flip a coin. Sorry.

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Tip Thursday: Beach Bag Essentials

With temperatures and hemlines rising it can only mean one thing... SUMMER! The best part of summer is hitting up the pool and beach for a day of fun. So while you're out tracking down the perfect swimsuit make sure to pick up these essentials. You will look and feel great as long as you have these in your beach/pool bag.

$10 at Target

#1:Protect yo'self before you wreck yo'self lol

Too many times we like to go outside without the proper protection against the sun and it starts to add up. Sunscreen is the #1 thing you want to take with you anytime you're doing any outdoor activity. A person's risk for Melanoma doubles if they get sunburned as a child or have had more than 5 sunburns in their adulthood. So lets try to avoid skin cancer with a simple step. From the number of people I know that go tanning the risk of skin cancer is clearly not enough to scare them off. So also take into consideration that unprotected exposure to UV-A and UV-B rays will age you even quicker. In the end you don't want to burn, you want to be sun kissed. I do recommend using a separate sunscreen for your face. You want to use something lightweight and oil free that wont make your skin break out.

$14.50 at Victoria's Secret

#2:Nothing cooler than Hydration

A day at the beach or pool may feel refreshing but in actuality it can be very dehydrating for your body. The salt water, heat, and sun can remove a lot of moisture from your body so you want to make sure and replenish it. Make sure you take with you a lot of water or even coconut water for a more tropical flavor. I personally like to carry my giant 32oz water bottle from Victoria's Secret plus a bit extra. Secondly you want to carry a lip balm with an SPF. Lips can also get sunburned and extremely chapped. Lastly take a body lotion. After all that fun you'll want to moisturize your skin.

#3:It's a sandy runway

$12.94 at Old Navy

Beach fashion is the best! We never forget our suits or cover up but what about the accessories? My top 3 beach/ poolside accessories are sunglasses,a hat, and of course sandals. For sunglasses I like to go with an oversize plastic frame. The will provide the best coverage and wont get ruined of they get wet. Also try to take a cheap pair in case anything happens to them. With hats there are several options but my favorite is a big floppy one. I just love the glamorous effect it gives and the extra shade. And lastly, sandals. For the beach I prefer the heavier plastic ones. They'll last a long time and can take a beating without showing any wear and tear.

$12 at Victoria's Secret

#4:Beach Babe Hair

Everyone loves to get those beachy salt water waves in their hair. Before the beach fun begins you should protect your locks. If you plan on being outdoors a lot this summer I recommend investing in a UV hair protectant spray. Its also great for color treated hair. My second beach bag hair suggestion is mousse. If you're going from the beach into other plans use the mousse to maintain your waves and get rid of frizz.

#5: Natural Beauty

$13.95 at Rite-Aid

If you plan on going from the water to main land without missing a step you may want to take a small makeup bag. You will want to embrace summer complexion so skip the heavy makeup. All You need are three items. 

1) A lip and cheek stain: You will use this just to add a natural flush to your face so its not so mono-toned. My personal favorite stain is the Benefit Bene-Tint but ELF has more affordable options.

2) A hi-lighter: What highlighter you use is up to you but you can get more use out of a powder one. My favorite is the Physician Formula Sexy Booster glow bronzer. Its a golden color and has a toasted vanilla scent (I actually like the smell and tend to hate vanilla scents).You can use this on your lids, cupids bow, cheek bones, and down the bridge of your nose.

3) A mascara: The final must have item is mascara. Its a must to define lashes and help your eyes stand out. My holy grail mascara is Benefit They're Real.

#6:Everything Else :-)

-Empty grocery bags: Use for wet clothes, trash, or pretty much anything.

-2 Towels: One is never enough. Take one for laying on and one for drying or a for a friend.

-Snacks: Your on a beach not a desert island lol. Maybe some fruit, nuts, jerkey (protein), or granola.

-Hair ties and pins: Wet hair slapping your face is no fun.

-Sweater or Denim Jacket: In case you get cold, duh! Lol

-Bug Spray: If you go to a lake their may be mosquitos so better safe than sorry. 

♥

I hope you glam geeks found this helpful and useful. Make sure to check back for more blog post ♥

www.facebook.com/glamouristaeli

Update on everything :-)

Lately but not unusually i have been MIA. Not for any particular reason, just been busy with life i guess. So today's post is just to update you guys on whats going on with the blog and my life.

1. This blog will soon be regularly posted on. I really promise this time. I have been wanting to do more fashion post but where i live the weather is extremely bipolar. And i mean extremely like 76 degrees one day and snow the next. So for sure i will be posting at least once a week.

2. After much thought and weighing the pros versus cons i will be starting a youtube channel. Several friends and family members keep asking me to do it so i will be throwing my shyness out the window i guess. It will be a bit of everything. Fashion, beauty, cooking, and just a more personal look into my life.

3. Im currently and for what seems like forever single lol. So I have been trying to go out more and socialize so thats where some of my time has gone. Awkward?. Yes, very much so. IDK might start vlogging about that lol.

4. Everyone i know is having a baby! But closest to me is my sister who will be having a girl. Im very excited for that. So being her only sister I'm naturally the one that ended up with the responsibility of planning the baby shower. It went from 20 people to around 60 on the guest list so that has definitely taken up a lot of time.

5. Ive been trying to have more community involvement so that takes time away from blogging as well.

6. And final point! I really wanna hear from you guys regarding the blog and youtube channel. What do you think I should do?

So with that massive list of excuses i close this post. I HOPE you guys stick through this and my chaos <3

$Deal Alert$: the Balm cosmetics

The Balm will be having a 24 hour sale to launch their new site www.the balm.com . The sale was to be on the 1st of April but with so many excited shoppers the site crashed. But let's look at the bright side, it gave me a chance to share the news. The sale will be 50% off site wide! They have tons of new products including blushes, brushes, and bronzer. I'm expecting a large order. Hopefully you will take advantage of this awesome sale. Fallow them on Facebook to keep updated about the sale. HAPPY SHOPPING GLAM GEEKS <3

Delays

Sorry for the recent lack of post. Due to a procedure I have been super busy and partially blind. Look forward to a post on Thursday <3

*HAPPY ST PATRICK'S DAY*

Fashion Friday: Spring Trend- Black & White

Usually we associate spring with flowers, sunshine, and bright colors. That is why this spring's timeless trend isn't as common around this time of year. It's chic, classic, edgy, and simple. It's black and white. This color combo was all over the spring/summer 2013 runways. It is also on all of the hottest fashion magazine covers. So today I'm showing you a few affordable pieces that will keep you on trend but can also be worn year after year.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Clock-wise:

-Forever21 "diamond print sweater" $19.80

-Macy's "Bar III front row legging" $49.00... currently on sale for $39.80

-Wet Seal "vertical stripe pullover" $24.50

 

 

 

 

 

 

Clock-wise:

-Forever21+ "contrast bow chiffon cami" $19.80

-Old Navy "printed twill shorts'' $25.00

-Forever21+ "distressed contrast moto jacket" $39.80

-Macy's "ING plus size tuxedo jacket" $38.99

 

 

 

 

 

Clock-wise:

-Forever21 "triangle stretch bracelet" $8.80

-Target "Mossimo snake crossbody handbag" $24.99

-Target "Mossimo pearlyn chunky peep toe heel'' $29.99

(love and own these shoes ♥)

 

 

 

 

 

TIPS:

 

-This trend can be rocked with pieces you may already have in your wardrobe. Do you have a black dress? Try pairing it with a white belt and shoes. You can even color block with a black shirt, white pants, and black shoes. You cant go wrong.

 

-If you want to update an accessory try adding a white scarf to black purse.

 

-If you're a bit more shy but still want to sport this trend try it on your nails. There are many black and white manicure options.

 

-Don't be afraid to experiment. The beauty of black and white is that you can make it as simple or complicated and still look good.

 

-Try adding a pop of color. My favorite thing to do is to add a bright lip color.

 

 

www.facebook.com/glamouristaeli

 

♥ 

Glampified!: DIY Lip Palette

 

Hello there Glam Geeks! Today's post is a DIY I did a few months back. That I know of no one has yet to do this but I could be wrong but I don't know lol. Well the way I came about this is because I love my lipsticks but hate taking them all with me when I travel. I looked into other depotting methods but palettes were around $20 and I didn't want to spend the money. So this idea came about and worked out great! I do ask that you please read all the instructions and tips first before starting so you can avoid some of the mistakes I made. Happy Glampifying!

 

 

 

Supplies: Watercolor paint set, your choice of lipstick, a blade or spatula (I used a butter knife), a spoon, and fire. I already had everything so this project ended up costing me around $3.

 

Step 1: Remove the tray from the case and pop out the colors. They're pretty chalky and stiff so you should be able to do it with no trouble.Clean up any residue left behind with a wet napkin.

 

 

 

 

 

Step 2: Take your lipstick and cut off about 1/4 of an inch.

Step 3: Put the lipstick onto a spoon a put a few inches above the candle. Give it a few seconds to melt...
If you want you can skip this step and just press it into the watercolor slot. I prefer doing it this way because it leaves it looking neater.

Step 4: Once it is melted slowly pour the liquefied lipstick into the slot/pan. Do NOT fill it to the rim. Leave some room for expansion.

Step 5: Repeat step 2-4 until all the slots/pans are filled and let cool for about 5 minutes.

That's it you're done! Now you have a customized lip palette where all the colors look great on you. Just replace the paint brush with a lip brush. In case you had an accident like I did and spill a little just clean it with a q-tip.


 

TIPS:

 

1. Don't use your prized lipsticks for the first go around. Practice first with more affordable and readily available colors.

 

2. Don't let the lipstick boil. This will cause the liquid to dry harder and less creamy making it difficult to apply.

 

3. Do lay down a protective surface. I used a towel.

 

4. Do remember to be careful because you can easily be burned and scarred by the hot spoon.

 

5. Do clean the tools in between each shade to keep the colors true.

 

6. Don't be afraid to mix colors into your own custom color. Every girl wants her own customized shade so take advantage. And make sure to remember the quantities so if it becomes your signature shade you can always recreate it :-)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you liked this post please make sure to like our page on Facebook and share the blog with friends ♥

 

 

www.facebook.com/glamouristaeli



Beauty Buzz: Urbsn Decay's Naked Basics Review

Thanks to its previous full size versions the Naked Basics palette was sure to be a big hit. Now the reviews are in and the hype is over. After trying it out here is my 100% honest review.

 

 

 

 

Product: Urban Decay's Naked Basics matte eyeshadow palette.

 

Price: $27.00

 

Availability: This palette can be purchased at Sephora, ULTA, and on Urban Decay's website.

 

Pros: There are a few pros to this pallete and i can see why this could have been a great product. The first pro is its size. It is very compact and great for travel. The mirror on it is also a good size. Although it claims to be all matte Venus does have a frosted finish which i did like because it worked well as a highlight for the brown bone and inner eye corner. I also like that the palette included a brown and black color. Lastly the price wasnt too bad especially if you just needed some basic colors from a reputable brand.

 

Cons: Unfortunately for this product the cons out way the pros. The concept was great but it was executed poorly. First, half of the colors look almost identical. Second, Foxy and WOS look just like my skin color so there is no point in using them.Third, I expected better quality shadows but they are very chalky and have a lot of fallout. Fourth, they do not blend very well. I found it very difficult to evenly blend. And lastly, these shadows don't live up to Urban Decay's usual longevity.

 

Overall Opinion: Don't waste your money. I will be returning this product. I purchased it on the basis that 4 of the colors were good enough that i didn't mind the other two. But the quality is awful. I have found a better product that I will show in a later review. So save your time and money. And keep checking back for better substitute.   

 

 

 

 

 



Beauty Buzz: Obsessed!

Its MONDAY!... Nothing special about it but I hope a post makes it a little easier to get into the routine of the work week. As I said it's Monday so I am feeling a bit lazy. So for today heres a quick post on some of my must have beauty items.

 

 

 

 

 

• Loreal Colour Riche: I absolutely love these lip colors. Its similar to a tinted lip balm but more pigmented. It is extremely moisturizing and has the best scent. My favorite is "Sunset Angora". It is the perfect coral color. I'm currently on my 3rd. Which is odd because I rarely finish any lip products.
 
• Conair Mini Pins: I know most people don't give to much care to the bobby pins they use. When I first used these I was so impressed. Since they are shorter in length they have a stronger hold. The shorter length also prevents them from sticking out. I always buy multiple packs at a time because I lose them all the time and would hate to be without them.
 
• Victoria's Secret Very Sexy Perfume: This has become my signature scent as well as my sisters. Although I own several other perfumes, this is the one i have repurchased time and time again for the past 8 years. I have also observed how much guys love this scent. They always comment how good it smells and many of them even know it by name now.

• Benefit "They're Real" Mascara: I never thought I would be the type of person to pay $23 for a mascara, let alone repurchase. That was until I tried this one. I have yet to find a mascara that is better than this one. Usually most mascaras work pretty good on me since i have long lashes but his one makes them appear even fuller and longer. They appear to be fake. I always recommend this product to friends and even strangers. It has even worked on my close friend who has short straight lases. Try the travel size and I promise you will like it.

Nailed It!: Velvet Nails

I'm sure you have all seen the Ciate Velvet Manicure set at Sephora for $19. Well here's how to get the look for a lot less and with a lot more options. Enjoy! 

 

Supplies: nail polish, sheet of paper, brush, and flocking powder. This set of flocking powder I have was on clearance for $10. Regular price is $20 for 18 different colors. I got mine at Jo-Ann but pretty much all the craft stores offer a coupon for 40%-50% off.



Step 1: Apply your 1st coat of nail polish and let it completely dry.



Step 2: Apply a thicker 2nd coat.
IMPORTANT!: Complete steps 2-4 for each nail before moving on to the next one. 



Step 3: While the second coat is still wet quickly apply the flocking powder. Make sure to do this over a piece of paper to save any fall out and return the the container when your done.



Step 4: Lightly pat the powder into your nails to secure it better.



Step 5: After letting your nails dry for a few minutes use the brush to brush away any excess powder.You can use any brush you have laying around. Take advantage of those crappy brushes that come with your blush or eyeshadows.



Step 6: Enjoy!




The choices are endless. Just choose a polish and corresponding powder. For and added wow factor try using the flocking powder with glitter in it. You can also just do your tips, alternating colors, stripes, or an accent nail. My personal favorite is glossy gray nails with an oxblood red velvet accent nail.
 

Beauty Buzz: MAC Dupes

Hello Glam Geeks! Today's post is on my top 5 favorite MAC lipsticks of the moment. And included are some pretty close dupes. Enjoy!

 

#1 MAC "Russian Red", Revlon "Really Red"

 

#2 MAC "Heroine", Covergirl "Divine"

 

#3 MAC "So Chaud",Wet N Wild "Purty Persimmon"

 





#4 MAC Viva Glam "Nicki", Wet n Wild "Pinkerbelle"

 

#5 MAC "Mocha", Rimmel London Kate Moss "#08"

Tip Thursday: Business Cards

Today's tip comes courtesy of YouTube beauty guru and

Lancome spokesperson Michelle Phan. Enjoy!

 



Faux Fab: Jennifer Lopez

The first official post of 2013 is a Faux Fab, look for less. Today I have recreated the look Jennifer Lopez is wearing in the February 2013 issue of Harper's Bazaar. The recreated look comes in at around 90% cheaper than the actual items Jennifer wore. Let me know what you think or if you want a look done.



Fendi dress $9,990; Roberto Cavalli cuff $2,050; Tom Ford Boots $3,850

Roberto Cavalli tiger cuff $2,050

 

 

 

Jennifer Lopez: Harpers Bazaar Feb2013 cover by glamouristaeli featuring ankle strap sandals

Dress
windsorstore.com

Boots
overstock.com

Michael Antonio ankle strap sandals
zappos.com

Bracelet
overstock.com