SEPHORA LOYALTY REWARDS AND RECOMMENDATIONS - DEC 2015

Sephora Loyalty Rewards are finally arriving so start checking the mailbox and/or your email! The loyalty rewards are redeemable starting today, Dec 2nd and consist of $25 off purchase of $50 for VIB Rouge, $20 off purchase of $50 for VIB and $15 off purchase of $50 for BI (Beauty Insiders). The loyalty reward is good for a one-time use and doesn't expire until Dec 13th for BI and Dec 14th for VIB Rouge and VIBs (they're given an extra day to redeem theirs).

Here is a roundup of several beauty recommendations to use with your loyalty reward and a few items I am considering purchasing as well.

My latest makeup brand obsession is Burberry; especially their wet / dry silk shadows. I recently purchased three and am currently testing them. So far they have exceeded my expectations. These shadows have a silky texture and are incredibly soft to the touch. There are a total of eighteen to choose from and I am eager to purchase more. If you plan on purchasing any of these I recommend you do so now as they tend to sell out rather quickly.

For those that crave a subtle eye look I highly recommend the Lancome Auda(City) in Paris eyeshadow palette. The color selection in this palette is not over the top or super bright. It is more of a subtle wash of neutrals with a slight punch of color. This highly underrated palette houses sixteen gorgeous shadows with amazing staying power. See my full review and swatches here for reference.

A few lip products I have been dying to try are the Giorgio Armani Lip Maestro lip colors. They are a matte lip stain with a velvety soft texture. These are quite popular and over half the colors tend to stay sold out. I am most interested in trying 507, a mauve rosy pink and 508, a pink nude. Hopefully Sephora will restock these before the loyalty rewards end.

This next item launches on the Too Faced website Dec 8th, the Chocolate Bon Bons eyeshadow palette. The palette IS available online at Sephora during their loyalty rewards period. I have the original Too Face Chocolate Bar palette and it contains a mixture of warm and cool toned eyeshadows. While this new palette is rumored to be all cool toned shades. I've seen a few online swatches on Instagram and it seems to house quite a few pink shades.

My last two recommendations are the Urban Decay Gwen Stefani eyeshadow palette and the Marc Jacobs The Sofia Five Piece Petites Le Marc Lip Creme Collection. The first item, the UD eyeshadow palette, is limited-edition so I would purchase this now as it will definitely sell out. The palette itself was created and developed with Gwen Stefani. It houses 15 of her must-have shades with the majority of the palette being somewhat neutral. The Marc Jacobs Sofia lipstick collection is available in store at Sephora and consists of five gorgeous mini Marc Jacobs lipsticks. I own several of his lipsticks and this is such a great value for your money!

RECOMMENDATIONS / FAV PRODUCTS FOR THE SEPHORA 20% OFF VIB AND VIB ROUGE EVENT

Need some help deciding what to buy during the Sephora 20% VIB and VIB Rouge event?  Every year I recommend the Sephora kits. You know the Holiday samplers for eyes, lips, nails and fragrance. They are perfect for those wanting to try a multitude of new products and they make great stocking stuffers too.

Lip product recommendations:

SEPHORA FAVORITES GIVE ME SOME LIP

For those that don't want to spend a lot of money on just one lip product this six piece lip sampler is only $25 USD. It's perfect for those on a budget and it contains glosses, sticks, tints and lacquers plus one full size product.

Available here: Give Me Some Lip

SEPHORA FAVORITES GIVE ME MORE LIP

I love this lip sampler set! It is the perfect way to try a multitude of lip products for just $59 USD. This 17-piece, must-have lip sampler set of sticks, glosses, liners, treatments, tars, liquids, balms, and creams in an irresistible array of red, pink, nude, and berry shades.

Available here: Give Me More Lip

Eye product recommendations:

SEPHORA FAVORITES DRAW THE LINE

This sampler set is a wonderful collection of various eyeliners in liquid, gel, and pencil that let you flick, drag, sweep, or smudge on liner. It currently retails for $30 USD which isn't too costly considering you are getting one full size eyeliner.

Available here: Draw The Line

SEPHORA FAVORITES LASHSTASH

I chose this next set because I am always on the hunt for a good mascara. It contains 10 mascaras and a remover for just $45 USD. These mascaras will allow you to stretch, volumize, and enhance lashes with wands that curl and lift plus a bonus lash primer is included as well.

Available here: LashStash

Skincare recommendations:

PETER THOMAS ROTH MINI MASK MAGIC

This mini mask set is on my "Must Buy" list. Masks are great for detoxifying, repairing, and polishing skin. I use them on a weekly basis so I'm definitely going to buy this set and for $20 it's a steal!

Available here: Mini Mask Magic

LANCOME BIENFAIT MULTI-VITAL HYDRATE AND PROTECT

If you are like me and have really, really dry skin in the winter then this is the best skincare set for you. It hydrates the skin, leaves it so soft and it protects it from the cold weather and the harsh elements. The entire set is only $51 USD.

Available here: Lancome Hydrate and Protect

SEPHORA FAVORITES SKIN WONDERLAND

Still not able to commit to just one skincare brand? No worries, Sephora has you covered with this adorable 11 piece variety skincare set that includes oils, cleansers, creams, and treatments to pamper and address a wide range of skin needs. It currently retails for $56 USD.

Available here: Skin Wonderland

Individual items I recommend / worth mentioning: 

GUERLAIN PETROUCHKA PALETTE FOR EYES AND BLUSH

I recently purchased this Guerlain palette and I'm in the process of reviewing it so a blog post should be up shortly. So far it is on my "Must Have" this palette because it is worth every bit of the $90 price tag. LOL. It contains five eyeshadows, four blushes and comes in a gorgeous gold compact. Enough said.

Available here: Guerlain Petrouchka Palette

DOLLY'S HIGH ROLLER COLLECTION

I saw this palette in the store on Friday and the Dolly blush (last blush on the left) and the Dolly double-ended lip products are what make this bulky palette worth the $45. The eyeshadows are nice but not as pigmented as I had hoped but the bronzer and luminizer have excellent color payoff. Plus the waterproof eyeliner is incredible.

Available here: Dolly's High Roller

GIVENCHY PALETTE EXTRAVAGANZA LIP AND EYE

This is a gorgeous palette with four shimmer eyeshadows and a lipstick. Normally I shy away from eye and lip palette combos but this set is absolutely gorgeous and worth the splurge of $66 USD.

Available here: Givenchy Palette Extravaganza

GIVENCHY PRISME LIBRE LOOSE POWDERS

There are four loose powder color combinations to choose from and each retails for $53 USD. This may seem like a hefty price tag but each contains .42 oz of product. I've already bought one of the Givenchy Prisme Libre loose powders and I love it. So I'm definitely gonna buy a back up and maybe one or two other colors that are available.

Available here: Givenchy Prisme Libre

For those not on a budget / splurge-worthy items:

MAKE UP FOR EVER MAKEUP STATION

Make Up For Ever is a phenomenal brand and all of their products are worth the hefty price tag. This is a makeup artist’s set for creating backstage looks and glamorous holiday style with 30 iconic bestsellers for eyes, lips, and the complexion. Even though it is expensive, it retails for $300, I would definitely splurge on this. It would be number one on my splurge list.

Available here: Makeup Station

GLAMGLOW BRIGHTMUD EYE TREATMENT

When I attended one of the Sephora Beauty classes we used a sample of this eye treatment and it was AMAZING! It got rid of my under eye puffiness, it made my fine lines under my eyes less noticeable and it moisturized the scale-y look near the inner corners of my eyes. So this is definitely a "LOVE" for me and I have this item on my "Must Have" list but at $69 USD it is definitely gonna be a splurge for me!

Available here: BrightMud Eye Treatment

MAKE UP FOR EVER ARTISAN BRUSH KIT

The Make Up For Ever brushes are amazing! I currently use the large foundation brush and it doesn't shed and it applies my foundation without streaking. It is such a wonderful investment. As such, this whole brush kit is really worth the $210 USD price tag. For good quality brushes these are the best. Definitely worth the splurge!

Available here: Artisan Brush Kit 

MARC JACOBS THE BRONZE - BRONZER BRUSH

I currently own a Marc Jacobs makeup brush and it works wonderfully. I just don't know that I would fork over $78 USD for a big fluffy powder brush. I know it says it is to be used for applying bronzer but come on. A brush this big is really best used for loose powder application that is why it made my "Splurge" list, LOL.

Available here: The Bronze  

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN NAIL COLOUR

The last "Splurge" item on my list are the Christian Louboutin nail polishes. Each bottle retails at a hefty $50 USD. I've had several of the polishes on my "Splurge" list but I'm not ready to fork over that kind of money just yet. Maybe I can ask Santa to bring me a bottle or two for Christmas, LOL. 

Available here: The Nudes, The Noirs, The Pops, and Rouge Louboutin

SEPHORA VIB ROUGE HOLIDAY SOIREE NOV 5TH EVENT AND VIB HOLIDAY 2014 SHOPPING EVENT

The biggest shopping event makeup addicts like myself, look forward to every year is almost here! November 5th kicks off all the festivities for VIB Rouge gals and guys so start making those shopping lists! This year the closed door VIB Rouge Holiday Soiree will feature a fun filled extravaganza of yummy treats, awesome gifts to reward VIB Rouge clients for their loyalty to Sephora and an additional day of shopping with 20% off your entire in-store and online purchase (**see important note below for further explanation**). The event starts at 7PM and lasts until 9PM although last year my Sephora store stayed open until about 10 or 11PM because everyone was having such a fantastic time shopping for all of their favorite things!

Good News for those who need an enabler to help convince them to buy more makeup! Each VIB Rouge invite allows you to bring a friend! So SHOP ON!!!

Be sure to RSVP here: www.sephora.com/rouge-rsvp by November 4th. The card says Nov 3rd but there was a slight delay in getting the invites out so Sephora has extended the sign-up an extra day. Don't worry if you RSVP'd but then can't make the event. Just call up your local Sephora and they will usually set aside the goodies for you to pick up later. Haven't received your invite yet, no worries! Just click the link above to RSVP to the Sephora event and you are good to go!

**Important VIB Rouge members**

Saw something online at Sephora.com but your local Sephora store doesn't carry it in-store? No worries! Just ask a Sephora Associate (preferably the Manager) during the Holiday Soiree event and they can assist you with the online order and yes, you will get to use the 20% online a day early.

Starting Thursday, Nov 6th and ending Monday, Nov 10th Sephora has given VIB and VIB Rouge members five whole days of shopping with 20% off your entire purchase in store and online plus the 20% can be used multiple times.

Use code: GIFTROUGE for VIB Rouge members and code GIFTVIB for VIB members.

UPCOMING SEPHORA VIB ROUGE EVENT - AUG 3rd, 2014

Start making those shopping lists! Sephora is hosting a special 2 hour VIB Rouge event this Sunday, August 3rd, 2014. Shop during the closed-door party or if you can't make the event then shop anytime from Aug 3rd to Aug 10th to earn 4 times the beauty points. Not a VIB Rouge member? No worries, during this week-long event VIB insiders will earn triple points and Beauty Insiders will earn double the points. 

VIB Rouge Members please be sure to RSVP for the VIB Rouge event by Aug 1st and check with your local Sephora store because they will have different times for the event depending on their specific location.

Here is the RSVP link: SEPHORA VIB ROUGE EVENT RSVP

For those VIB Rouge members attending this exclusive event, a special makeup bag full of samples will be available for those making a $35 or more purchase. This kinda sucks that we have to make a purchase just to receive the makeup bag. Don't get me wrong - I appreciate Sephora hosting a VIB Rouge event and I know I will rack up a ton of points - but seriously? We have already spent well over 1K to become VIB Rouge members and now we have to make a $35 purchase just to get the makeup bag. It just seems a bit extreme is all I'm saying. Anyway, keep reading for the disclosures below.

DISCLOSURES (fine print)

*Select Sephora stores will have different hours; only select Sephora inside JCPenney stores will have closed-door shopping events. Check this site for participating stores and exact times. Sephora locations in Canada will be holding this event on Wednesday August 6th from 7-9pm. Click here to RSVP to a location in Canada.

**Qualified VIB Rouge will earn quadruple points, VIBs will earn triple points and Beauty Insiders will earn double points on merchandise purchases made Sunday August 3, 2014 thru Sunday August 10, 2014 at 11:59pm PDT. This offer is subject to termination by Sephora in its discretion at any time.Bonus points will be automatically credited to your BI Accounts the same day of purchase. Points not earned on sales tax, shipping, Sephora gift cards, eGift certificates and prior purchases. This offer is subject to termination by Sephora in its discretion at any time.

† Sephora Cosmetic Bag with samples and Rouge Tote Bag are only available in Sephora stores during the VIB Rouge Reception with any merchandise purchase of $35 USD or more. Limit of one of each offer per VIB Rouge client, non-transferable. Guests of VIB Rouge that are Beauty insiders are also eligible to redeem the Sephora Makeup Bag with samples with any merchandise purchase of $35 USD or more, limit one per client. Valid while supplies last, quantities are limited, sample bag assortment may vary. Not valid on previous purchases, or purchases of eGift certificates and gift cards. Sephora employees are not eligible for offers. No returns or exchanges. These offers are subject to change, alteration or termination by Sephora in its sole discretion at any time.

ADELAIDE AND ORGASM NARS ILLUMINATOR - SWATCHES AND REVIEW

Even though I like the Nars Multiples I really LOVE the Nars illuminator. They are so easy to apply and it takes less than a pea-sized amount to highlight and illuminate the face. There are several different shades to choose from. Sephora has four listed on their website and Nars has six on theirs and I believe they just released one or two more new shades as well. So there are plenty to compliment just about any skintone. The Nars illuminator currently retails for $30.00 USD and they contain 1.1 oz of product.

I purchased Adelaide from the Nordstrom website and I purchased Orgasm during the Sephora VIB Rouge Spring Social event so I could get the extra 15% off. Just as a side note - while in attendance at the Sephora event the MUA / SA asked what products I would like to try / test and the Nars Orgasm was one of my items. I had already made a list of stuff I wanted to look at and the MUA / SA went around the store gathering up all the items and then tried each of them on me. It was so much fun! Seriously! If you ever get the chance to attend a Sephora event you really must go. It was so much fun and everyone was just so friendly and so helpful! Anyway, back to my review - I love mixing products together and trying to come up with different ways to get the most use out of my makeup. So I decided to mix Adelaide and Orgasm together to create a pinkish coral illuminator. This color combo will look fantastic come summer! Honestly, I don't mind paying a little more for a product when it is this versatile! Now keep in mind they both contain a fair amount of sparkle so there may be minor fall out but they both can easily be buffed down to contain some of the glitter-mess, LOL.

AZALEA SMASHBOX BE LEGENDARY LIP GLOSS - SWATCHES AND REVIEW

One of the items I purchased online during the Sephora 15% off discount period was the Smashbox Be Legendary lip gloss in Azalea. It is a brightened pink fuschia gloss that is non-sticky and applies easily. The gloss kept its shine and color with a wear time of about five hours before I needed to reapply. When you first apply the gloss it may look more sheer but within a matter of minutes the color pigments in the gloss really intensify the wash of color on the lips. 

The Azalea gloss currently retails for $20.00 USD and contains .20 fl oz. of product. There are a total of sixteen glosses to choose from and they are all available on the Smashbox website and online at Sephora. When I went to Sephora at the Northlake mall on Saturday they hadn't received the glosses in store yet. So for now you may want to purchase these online but I do expect them to pop up in store at Sephora within the next few weeks.

SEPHORA 15% OFF DISCOUNT CODES - LET'S GET SHOPPING!

Sephora is offering all beauty members 15% off your entire purchase (in store and online) and it can be used multiple times! Please see below for the specific dates and codes pertaining to your particular beauty level.

If you are a BI (Beauty Insider) then starting April 4th use code: TICKET at checkout to receive 15% off your entire purchase. The multi-use code will be good until April 10th.

If you are a VIB (Very Important Beauty) then starting April 3rd use code: VIBTICKET at checkout to receive 15% off your entire purchase. The multi-use code will be good until April 11th.

If you are a VIB Rouge (Very Important Beauty Rouge) then starting Mar 30th use code: ROUGETICKET at checkout to receive 15% off your entire purchase. The multi-use code will be good until April 11th.

SEPHORA 2013 MERRY CRAZY EXCLUSIVE VIB REWARD CARD

VERY IMPORTANT BEAUTY INSIDERS (VIBs) start checking your postal box for Sephora's MERRY CRAZY EXCLUSIVE REWARD CARD. The $20 VIB reward card is Sephora's way of saying "Thanks!" for being such a valuable part of the VIB program.

The reward card can be redeemed one-time starting Wednesday, Dec. 4th and is good until Monday, Dec. 16th, 2013. The $20 reward card can be used online at Sephora.com or in-store but there is a $50 minimum purchase that is required and you must have qualified for VIB status as of October 1st, 2013. 

#ShopOn

HELPFUL TIPS / WISHLIST: 2013 SEPHORA 20% VIB HOLIDAY EVENT

HELPFUL TIPS:

The first day of any Sephora 20% VIB event is always crazy; especially when it is around the holidays. Folks stock up on their everyday staples while others start shopping for gifts. Whichever category you fall under there is always a sense of urgency with these types of sales. If you are contemplating a gift set for a special someone my best advice is to buy now and return later. YES, I'm serious.

The really cute and affordable gift sets ($30.00 or less) are the first to sell out quickly (typically within the first 24 hours). Next are the mid-range sets (over $30.00 but less than $55) these include fragrance sets as well. Those will be the next to go. Finally, the higher end sets usually sell out by the end of the event. Typically to those who procrastinated and now don't want to get caught around the holidays without a gift for someone.

So if you are undecided, just buy it - you can regret it later! Keep in mind Sephora does have an excellent return policy if you do need to return anything.

WISHLIST:

1. MAKEUP BRUSHES: On my Sephora wishlist I have several different brands of makeup brushes that I would like to try out - think Sephora Prestige Sets, Marc Jacobs, MUFE, etc. 
2. PERFUME: I love the fragrance samplers! These gifts sets are a great way to try out a variety of fragrances without spending a fortune for just one tiny bottle.
3. LIPGLOSSES: I don't have a particular brand in mind but I typically purchase from a brand that I have never used before. If I end up liking the brand / formula then I will add it to my Christmas list.
4. GIFT SETS: YEP, I'm a sucker for those bundled gift sets. Especially the sets with a variety of makeup / skincare products - those are AWESOME. I can try a multitude of items without breaking my wallet! Then if I fall in love with something I can always purchase a full size later.
5. SALE ITEMS: This year in September I qualified for VIB Rouge status so trying to spend $50 for free shipping doesn't apply now. However, in year's past, I would peruse the sale items ($15.00 or less) to try and boost my total purchases over the $50 free shipping threshold. Surprisingly you can find some really great items!   

So, tell me what do you have on your wishlist for the Sephora VIB Event? Any "MUST HAVE" items?

Starting TODAY, Thursday, November 7th through Monday, November 11th, Sephora is hosting a 20% VIB HOLIDAY EVENT for all VIB (Very Important Beauty Insider) members. This will be a five day 20% off online and in store celebration and all you do is simply enter the code: VIBTOPIA at checkout when shopping online. For in store purchases just simply present your voucher or a printout of the e-mail from Sephora at the register during checkout.

**Some Sephora stores will allow the use of smartphones to display the barcode in lieu of the paper printout.

SEPHORA DISCLOSURES

* 20% off promotion valid for Sephora VIB's on November 7-11, 2013 11:59pm PST. To redeem online: Use promo code VIBTOPIA when prompted at checkout. To redeem in stores: Present this voucher at the register. VIB friend offer is only valid on a single purchase and is limited to one friend per VIB. To redeem in stores: VIB friend must be with a registered VIB. To redeem online: VIB friend will be sent a unique, one-time use promo code. Offers not valid on previous purchases, or purchases of eGift certificates or of gift cards. Valid in Sephora stores and online. May not be combined with any other offers, be sold or otherwise transferred. Coupon has no cash value and may not be altered. These offers are subject to change, alteration or termination by Sephora in its sole discretion at any time. Cannot be combined with employee offers or discounts. Learn more about the VIB program at any Sephora store or online at Sephora.com/VIB.

** Free Sephora Limited-Edition Tote (15"x12"x4.5") valid in stores or online with any merchandise purchase while supplies last. Must be a VIB to redeem.
Not valid on previous purchases or purchases of gift cards. May not be combined with any other offers or employee discounts. Coupon has no cash value and may not be altered. This offer is subject to change, alteration, or termination by Sephora in its sole discretion at any time.

† Online and in stores. While Supplies last. Quantities of each reward are limited, sample substitutions may occur. Offers are valid with 100 Beauty Insider points or 250 Beauty Insider points in stores and online with a purchase. Non-transferable. Must be a registered Beauty Insider to redeem offer. No returns or exchanges.

2013 SEPHORA LOVES V.I.B.s - 20% off GIFTOPIA CELEBRATION (Nov 7th - Nov 11th)

Starting Thursday, November 7th through Monday, November 11th, Sephora is hosting a "GIFTOPIA" celebration for all VIB (Very Important Beauty Insider) members. This will be a five day 20% off online and in store celebration. Simply enter the code: VIBTOPIA at checkout when shopping online. For in store purchases just simply present your voucher at the register during checkout.

PRIVATE INVITATION: MARC JACOBS BEAUTY (SEPHORA VIB)

SEPHORA VIB's get early access to the new MARC JACOBS BEAUTY collection. This collection will not be available again until August 9th. So hurry and get your SHOP ON!

Please note: This is only a portion of the beauty collection that is available for sale right now! There will be loads more of gorgeous beauty items to come on August 9th.

Here is the link and happy shopping! - MARC JACOBS BEAUTY

THE 48-HOUR EARLY ACCESS STARTS NOW
Online only Friday 7/19 to Saturday 7/20 11:59 PM PDT

BE THE FIRST TO EXPERIENCE MARC JACOBS BEAUTY
Only at Sephora. Only for VIBs. Only 48 Hours.

STYLE EYE-CON NO. 3 PLUSH SHADOW - $42.00 USD

What it is:
A petite set of three plush eye shadows that harmoniously marry with a creamy, sumptuous finish.

What it does:
Each mini palette of shimmery metallics, buttery mattes, and lustrous sheens are made with advanced pigments that allow true, instant color payoff and long-lasting, plush performance. Shades are cleverly sized to suit your eye shadow needs. Marc invites you to play and become your own Style Eye-Con.

The Glam 108 - warm cream/metallic bronze with gold shimmer/peachy copper sheen

The Mod 112 - eggshell white/black with iridescent shimmer/light grayish taupe

STYLE EYE-CON NO. 7 PLUSH EYESHADOW - $59.00 USD 

What it is:
A super skinny, sleek palette of seven eye shadows that harmoniously marry with a creamy, sumptuous finish.

What it does:
A super skinny and sleek design will instantly make these seven harmonized shadows become your eye essentials. Each palette of shimmery metallics, buttery mattes, and lustrous sheens are made with advanced pigments that allow true, instant color payoff, and long-lasting plush performance. Marc invites you to play and become your own Style Eye-Con.

The Starlet 204 -
metallic muted lilac, metallic champagne pink, metallic dark copper brown, metallic bright copper, metallic gold, metallic bluish silver, metallic gunmetal gray

The Tease 202 -
purple sheen, matte grayish purple, matte pale pink, iridescent champagne sheen, metallic pastel pink w/gold shimmer, matte bright aubergine, deep aubergine w/iridescent shimmer

MAGIC MARC'ER PRECISION PEN - $30.00 USD

What it is:
A liquid eyeliner inspired by the classic calligraphy pen for drawing the finest lines and achieving perfect definition.

What it does:
This waterproof liquid eyeliner pen features a calligraphy-inspired proprietary capillary system that draws thick and thin lines for accentuating the lash line or building a bolder look. This never-seen-before shade was developed in Japan to create the shiniest and blackest black on the market. The fast-working, no-transfer, no-fade formula lasts all day. This sleek liner begs to be held and is suitable for the boardroom.

Blacquer

LUST FOR LACQUER SHEER LIP VINYL- $28.00 USD

What it is:
A champagne grape-infused lip vinyl with a shimmery wash of lust-worthy, sheer-coverage color.

What it does:
Satisfy your lip gloss craving with Marc’s lighthearted, champagne grape-infused lip vinyl. This lightly pigmented, plumping formula is infused with antioxidants, essential oils, and a hint of effervescence for a perfect pout with the highest shine. The patented, pillowed applicator glides on the lip vinyl for precise application with a shimmery, lust-worthy finish.

304 Overprotected - shimmering pastel pink | New

308 Heart Shaped - shimmering baby pink | New

302 Kissability - shimmering lilac pink | New

310 Studded Kiss - shimmering berry lavender | New

312 Lust For Life - shimmering reddish raspberry | New

Lip Lock Moisture Balm - $24.00 USD

What it is:
A buttery, rich lip balm with SPF 18 that locks in hydration.

What it does:
Meet the ultimate makeout accessory—the addictive and refreshing minty flavor will keep you coming back for more. With nature’s best exotic oils and butters like andiroba, buriti, shea, and avocado, this moisture balm is too good not to share. Indulge. Hydrate. Repeat.

What else you need to know:
Broad spectrum SPF 18 protects lips from harmful UV rays which are the number one cause of premature skin aging, leading to skin discoloration, loss of elasticity, and the appearance of fine lines.

SEPHORA VIB ROUGE STATUS

NEW! Spend a $1,000 in a calendar year to qualify for Sephora's new VIB ROUGE status.

When I first heard about this concept of a VIB Rouge membership from my local Sephora I was really skeptical and thought for sure it was just a rumor. Then I saw on Twitter today, several people discussing this same thing. So I contacted a Sephora customer service rep and asked about the program. At first the Rep denied any knowledge of the program. When I pressed even further by offering up details she relented and stated that there is indeed such a program in the works.

Just last week Sephora's Marketing department notified their Customer Service department about this new marketing ploy - VIB Rouge. The concept behind VIB Rouge is to encourage consumers to spend even more than the $350 threshold that is required for the regular VIB status. With VIB Rouge, if you spend at least a $1,000 or more in a calendar year you will receive all the perks of the regular VIB status, unlimited access to the beauty studio, free shipping on ALL orders, exclusive invites to Rouge Events, and special surprise gifts.

Personally, I think this is a smart move on Sephora's part. This year I had managed to attain VIB Beauty status by April (read my post here) and I had stopped spending at Sephora. Instead, I had focused my efforts (and money) on Sephora's competitors beauty rewards programs. However, now I can redouble my efforts to try and attain VIB Rouge status at Sephora. So far this year I have spent about $641 so I still have a way to go but I'm pretty confident that I will be able to attain it. Even if I only qualify for one year it would still be nice to experience this status just to see what it is all about.

Read more about this new status here: SEPHORA VIB ROUGE

SEPHORA BEAUTY INSIDER CHIC WEEK EVENT - (VIB starts APR 11th) APR 12th to APR 22nd, 2013

Every year Sephora gives back to their Beauty Insider members with a 15% off event and this year it starts April 12th. For those who are VIB's (Very Important Beauty Insiders) you get to start shopping a day early - April 11th.

The VIB festivities usually start around 6PM on Thursday and typically wrap up around 8PM later that night. Although my Northlake Mall location has been known to keep the party going until well past closing time depending on the turnout. 

Normally I don't make VIB status for the next year (2014) until much later in the current year (2013) and it's around October / November time frame. However this year I have been on a hot-streak (shopping spree extravaganza) and I have already managed to rack up enough dollars / points to cover me for VIB status through 2014. Now, if only I could use the rest of my dollars / points to earn VIB status for 2015 I would have it made! LOL

Anyway, I already have a shopping list of items that I really, really want. A few of those items are makeup brushes, skincare products, and maybe an eyeshadow palette or two...maybe three.... I might get a couple of the higher end nailpolishes as well. It all depends on what is available and if I can fit it all in my budget.

To see the details (the rules and regulations) continue reading below...

SAVE THE DATE: THURSDAY, APRIL 11TH - CHIC WEEK 15% OFF EARLY ACCESS STORE EVENT*

You're invited to an exclusive VIB in-store event to celebrate Sephora's Chic Week. Bring a friend and share your savings, get makeovers, take home free samples, and more.**

* Online, use promo code VIBCHIC. VALID APRIL 11 THROUGH APRIL 22, 2013, AT 11:59 PM PDT for VIBs only. May be used in Sephora stores and sephora.com on any merchandise purchase. Offer not valid online in Canadian checkout. Offer limited to Sephora VIBs only. Voucher must be presented at time of redemption when used in store. No minimum purchase required. May not be combined with any other promotions or employee discounts. Not valid on previous purchases or purchases of gift cards. May not be sold or otherwise transferred. Return of discounted merchandise will be for the price actually paid. Not valid for cash or cash equivalent. Not responsible for lost or stolen promotion codes. This offer is subject to change, alteration, or termination by Sephora in its sole discretion at any time. Not valid for Sephora employees. Learn more about the Beauty Insider program at any Sephora store or online at Sephora.com/VIB.

** Select stores will have different hours; check your local store for exact times. Free tote and sample gift bag valid only during the in-store event on Thursday, April 11, 2013 or while supplies last, with any merchandise purchase. Sample bag contains one-time use samples from Algenist, Shiseido, Ole Henriksen, NUDE skincare, MAKE UP FOR EVER, Bumble and bumble, Smashbox, Josie Maran and D&G or Gucci. Must be a VIB to redeem. Not valid on previous purchases, or purchases of gift cards. This offer is subject to change, alteration, or termination by Sephora in its sole discretion at any time.

SEPHORA HAUL / SHOP SPREE - VIB ANNIVERSARY SPLURGE

I recently qualified for VIB status for the next year and for my VIB ANNIVERSARY I received a 10% coupon off on any purchase. How you qualify for VIB status is first you must sign up to be a Beauty Insider at Sephora (you can do this online or in-store and its free to join!). You will receive coupons and /or discounts plus you will be invited to special Beauty related events as well. All qualifying purchases (I have yet to find out what doesn't qualify) will earn you beauty insider points that can be used towards 100, 200, and 500 point gifts. Once you hit the threshold of $350 (per year) you will qualify for VIB status - Very Important Beauty Insider for the remaining of the current year throughout the next year. A coupon will be sent out as well for 10% off your entire purchase (it expires 30 days after the issue date) to be used on anything in-store or online. Another perk of being a VIB and why you should maintain this status are the rewards that you will receive. Periodically Sephora will hold special events or issue special discounts just for their VIB's as a way of saying "Thanks for being so loyal to our brand!" which are really nice. I usually wait for those types of events to stock up on all my "must have" beauty items and I typically repurchase back-ups of products that I really like so I don't run out.

Check below for pics, swatches, and general beauty related ramblings!

I had read on Twitter that Tarina Taratino products were either going to be repackaged / reformulated or they were no longer going to be carried in Sephora stores. When I went to Sephora and asked a SA she said the brand as a whole was undergoing a complete redesign. I'm not exactly sure what that means but I do know it means a huge savings for right now as everything has been marked down to ridiculous prices.

I'm relatively new to this brand so I have no clue as to whether or not these are good quality eyeliner products but for the discounted price it was too good of a deal to pass up. I purchased three eyeliners for about $8-9 ea. There wasn't much of a color range left as most of the eyeliners had already sold out but I was happy with these three. I picked the plum colored eyeliner because it really enhances my green eyes. I bought the black eyeliner because I like to use this color to line my upper lash line. The third eyeliner was a brown with micro-flecks of gold and I thought this would look really nice on my bottom lash line.

(L to R) ULTRAVIOLET, TOMMY JET, AND PUPPETEER

The next set of beauty products I purchased from this line were two blushes. The pink blush is Carved Rose and the peach blush is Neapolitan Lane. I think these were marked down to $12-15 ea. Carved Rose is a very vibrant pink that is build-able to achieve such a pink flush of color. Neapolitan Lane is a soft muted peach blush that looks darker in the pan than it really is. Overall both blushes have good color payoff and give a solid 8 hours wear time.

CARVED ROSE BLUSH

NEAPOLITAN LANE BLUSH

The last item that I purchased from this line was the EYEDREAM HIGHLIGHT duo in Iris Plume and Moon Opal. These creamy pearlized metallic eyeshadows are supposed to highlight the eye area and soften up the eye by diffusing harsh lines and shadows to create an almost ethereal glow. I believe there are four duos available and they are currently priced at $12 each.

The Nars Larger Than Life lip glosses are part of the Nars Andy Warhol collection which are available on Sephora.com and on the Nars.com website. They are currently priced at $26.00 USD for approximately .19 oz of product and there are a total of five full size lip glosses for sale. Out of the five my favorite was, Candy Says. According to the Nars website this gloss was "named for a sweet, sad and sentimental track about Candy Darling from the Velvet Underground’s legendary self titled album".

The lipgloss, Candy Says, is a beautiful strawberry pink with lots of shimmer and shine. The only drawback to the gloss is the applicator. I prefer lipgloss wands with the doe-foot applicator because it is so much easier to apply than this little tiny brush which takes FOREVER! Overall though, the gloss is long-lasting and the formula is not as sticky as some of the other Nars lipglosses.

Tarte Amazonian blushes are some of the most popular blushes right now with the beauty community. I have one from the "Gifts From The Lipstick Tree Achiote" color collection and it actually does have fairly decent color payoff. Mainly I wear the blush during the summer after my face has a slight tan. The main reason is the Achiote blush has more of a coral peach-pink color which tends to compliment my skin coloring the best during the warm summer months when my face isn't so pale.

With the exception of a few blushes that I own, I almost always gravitate towards plum, rose, and mauve colored blushes. One thing to keep in mind with the Amazonian blushes, they are at times a "hit or miss" with them. They are either too chalky, or there's not enough color payoff, or they are too peachy-orange. However, there are a few gems in this line of blushes and one of them is Blushing Bride. It's a plummy rose colored blush with a slight gold sparkle / sheen that can be blended out and is not really as noticeable as it looks in the pan. The Amazonian blushes are currently priced at $25 USD for approx. .2 oz of product.

Sorry for the bad swatch of this blush. I went through all of my photos and the blush kept coming out orange-ish looking. It is a far cry from being an orange blush - ITS PINK for heaven's sake! For an excellent swatch of this blush please check out Karla Sugar's blog. She has some excellent swatches of the entire collection. Here is a link to her blog post: KARLA SUGAR - TARTE SWATCHES.

One of my ALL-TIME favorite fragrances is Taj Sunset by Escada. It has a sweet fruity scent that I absolutely adore!! Unfortunately for me, it was discontinued so ever since then I have been on the hunt for something similar. I came across the Ralph Lauren Big Pony #2 fragrance in a sample from Sephora. The #2 fragrance has the same sweet fruity scent as Taj Sunset but it also has some underlying musky notes as well. The musky notes don't overpower the fragrance but they are noticeable. This is why I decided to only purchase a small bottle of the fragrance seeing as how this is an "okay" replacement for Taj Sunset, but I know if I keep searching I can find something better.

This last item I purchased mainly because I had seen @Lisasz09 (her twitter user name) feature it in her September Haul video. (Here is a link to the video: September Haul ). You should definitely check out her YouTube channel. She posts video reviews of all kinds of makeup products and I love watching her haul videos as well. I'll post links to her blog and twitter along with her main YouTube page below. 

Here is a link to her YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/Lisasz09
Here is a link to her blog: http://beautybylisasz09.blogspot.com/
Here is a link to her Twitter profile: https://twitter.com/Lisasz09

I find this Too Faced 3-way eyeliner truly fascinating. I don't really have any expectations other than I hope it doesn't dry out too quickly. According to the Sephora website the 3 way liner (or triple-tipped eyeliner) is supposed to "emphasize" the lashes by making them thicker looking, help to create a smoother tight lining application, and provide a better overall eye lining experience. I'm so excited and I really can't wait to try this. The eyeliner is available on Sephora.com and it's currently priced at $22.00 USD for .02 oz. of product. At this time it is only available in black. One important tidbit I forgot to mention is most Sephora stores are sold out of this eyeliner and can't keep it in stock. So you might have better luck purchasing it online.

Well this concludes my VIB Anniversary splurge post. Depending on my work schedule I hope to post in the coming days/weeks my Chanel Holiday splurges, my Sephora Friends and Family haul and my Sephora VIB haul as well. So keep checking back or subscribe to my blog so you can see what all I got. Thanks and I hope your having a great November so far!