Blush "Tweets"

I don't Tweet. Partly because my life is incredibly normal and boring and no one cares what I had for breakfast or when I'm heading to the gym, and partly because I would be creeped out if someone did know or care what I had for breakfast or when I'm heading to the gym. I work in a cubicle--I'm fine with preserving a little mystery when I can.

Nonetheless, there are times, like now, when I have a few quick, "tweet-like" tidbits to share. I popped into bluemercury on my way home this afternoon (after buying two Levain Bakery cookies for dinner) and got to check out some new releases. Since blushes are my weakness, I was focused on them.

Bobbi Brown Beach Shimmerbrick- way too dark and bronzy for me. This would probably require a skunk brush and very light application on fair skin like mine.

NARS Multiple Tint in Turks & Caicos- a hideous day-glo orange in the tube, this gel tint is a super sheer but very bright coral on the skin. A pretty and pleasant surprise.

T. LeClerc Blush in Brun Voile- would make a gorgeous, subtle bronzer. A rosy as opposed to orange undertone.

NARS Orgasm Illuminator- I've heard many complain that this is too sheer, but I'm so fair that it was more than enough color, and has a distinct bronze tone and shimmer unlike the namesake powder blush and Multiple. It's a pretty blend of translucent pink, peach, bronze and gold that's perfect for summer.

Sara Happ The Lip Scrub

It's finally that time of year when NYC hits what seem to be Arctic-like temperatures, especially the closer you get to the water (and luckily I live right by it!). In addition to dissuading me from leaving my apartment unless extremely necessary (i.e. work and shopping), the harsh wind and frigid temperatures dry out my hands and lips terribly, leaving them both parched and flaky. I purchased The Lip Scrub by Sara Happ ($24) from Blue Mercury in the hopes that it would prove more effective than a baby toothbrush and warm water and making my lips smooth and ready for lipstick again.

The Lip Scrub comes in seven enticing flavors (Creme Brulee is limited edition) and I selected Brown Sugar which tastes just as you'd expect based on the name. The product has a thick, paste-like consistency and consists of exfoliating sugar crystals suspended in a base of moisturizing ingredients. You rub the product on your lips in a circular motion and then wipe it off with a tissue (due to the oils in The Lip Scrub rinsing it off is of no avail). You are then supposed to "wonder how you ever lived without it," though try as I might to adore this, I didn't find the results any better than I get with just a toothbrush. I've used it multiple times and am still waiting to be astounded. For $24, I can't say that the product is worth it to me, though it does feel like an enchanting indulgence with the adorable packaging and delectable scents. If you've used The Lip Scrub I'd love to hear your thoughts! Perhaps I'm using it wrong (though who knew there was a learning curve for lip scrubs)?

My New Makeup Bag

I wanted to treat myself to a little something special after a tough few weeks.  This usually means a lipstick but I'm trying to cut back on the lip-product purchases before they completely take over my apartment!  I stumbled upon this little gem at Blue Mercury and was drawn to the iridescent lilac silk and pretty little sparkly sequins. 

The brand is Touch of Ivy, a line new to me, and while these bags aren't cheap ($24-$30 depending on size), they seem to be very well made and are lined in vinyl for easy clean up.   Unlike a new pair of shoes or a dress, this is the type of new purchase that everyone will notice, but every time I open my purse I'll spot this gem and smile!

Amazing Limited Trish McEvoy Deal

Lina of the wonderful blog The Beauty Look Book has information on an amazing Trish McEvoy set at an incredible price, exclusive to Blue Mercury and Selfridges. If I didn't already own almost every item in the kit already, I'd snap this one up in a heartbeat.