The Beauty Spotlight Team Wants to Know What's in My Purse

Purchased by Me, Gifts & Press Samples (Affiliate Links)

When The Beauty Spotlight Team decided to launch the "What's in My Purse" Series, I was thrilled. I so enjoy such posts, and delight in the voyeuristic thrill of seeing what other people carry around with them. However, what at first seemed like an easy task, soon revealed itself to be a bit more confounding. The problem is I made a deal with myself that if I was going to collect some nice things that I actually needed to use them. I'm interested in enjoying the things that I covet rather than simply storing them in their dust bags and only pulling them out for special occasions.

I have always had a penchant for beautifully made purses and wallets, and Italian leather goods have been my lifelong preference. The craftsmanship is just superb, and the materials are extraordinary. Furthermore, the attention to detail given to both the areas seen and unseen makes each handmade piece a true masterpiece. Therefore, it became evident to me while I was trying to select a purse to feature that I have been getting equal use out of two purses and two wallet, and thus I opted to show you both.

The Yves Saint Laurent Tribute Tote was a lovely gift that my mom and sister gave to me, and when I first saw this stunning purple patent leather bag I nearly shrieked at its utter magnificence. As far as I'm concerned it's a triple threat because it's purple (my absolute favorite color my entire life), it's an Yves Saint Laurent purse (I swoon at the thought), and it's patent leather (what's not not love?). While this bag seems to have long ago been discontinued, they can periodically be found at The Real Real (which is precisely where my mom and sister found this gem). In fact, they currently have two available in purple (here and here, but they also have a few others here). Perhaps what is the most surprising about this beauty is the fact that it actually holds a great deal of stuff, and the roomy interior zipper pocket is big enough to house my colossal iPhone 6 Plus. Recently I have been using this purse when I am out and about, and find that I need to carry more things than the mere essentials.

Description: Purple patent leather Yves Saint Laurent Tribute Tote with gold-tone hardware, dual zippers and snap closures at top, satin lining and single pocket at interior wall with zip closure.

Measurements: Handle Drop 7", Height 13", Width 13", Depth 1.5"

I was able to fit a huge makeup bag, an iPad Air in its case, and big wallet, an iPhone 6 Plus and my keys in this YSL purse without any trouble. I don't always carry my iPad, but tend to if I know that I will be going somewhere for a lengthy period of time.

The contents of my Yves Saint Laurent Tribute Tote when I leave the iPad at home.

Top to Bottom (Clockwise): Rebecca Minkoff Black Leather Makeup Bag, Saint Laurent Zip Around Wallet, keys and iPhone.

When I first saw this Saint Laurent Zip Around Wallet I was overjoyed. It is a beautiful example of extraordinary Italian craftsmanship. I chose this burgundy shade called Dark Magenta, but there are several other lovely colors that can be seen here, but the fuchsia (here) and red (here) are particularly gorgeous. This beauty fits everything that I need to carry, and more! It has a roomy interior, ample credit card and bill slots, and is simply extraordinary in every way.

Description: Classic Saint Laurent Zip Around Wallet with Embossed Saint Laurent Signature and Engraved Discrete Zipper.

• Dimensions: 8.2 X 4.1 X 0.8 Inches
• 100% Calf-Skin Leather
• 2 Bill & 2 Receipt Compartments
• Zip Around Closure
• 12 Card Slots, 1 Zip Pocket

I'm very pleased with this purchase, and even more pleased that I managed to get a sizable discount on mine because they were no longer carrying that color where I purchased it.

It was love at first sight when I saw the Milly Zig-Zag iPad Case, and I was elated to get it at a deep discount from Barneys New York Warehouse. They seem to have quite a few left, and if you need an iPad Case this is a great one to consider. I find so many great things at the Barneys New York Warehouse, and at a fraction of their original prices. It fits my iPad Air perfectly, and with a little room to spare.

Milly Shocking Pink/Multi zigzag-print coated-poplin iPad case.

• Top zip closure
• Engraved metal logo plaque at front, polished silvertone hardware
• Padded fabric-lined interior
• Approximately 10.25" height x 8.00" width x 1.00" depth

I love the geometric pattern and the fun pops of pink, but it is also a very durable bag that keeps my iPad well protected.

I received this large black leather Rebecca Minkoff Cosmetics Bag as a gift with purchase during the Bag Event at Neiman Marcus a couple of years ago (featured here), and it has been a favorite ever since. It has enough space to carry an obscene number of lip products, but I did try to demonstrate some degree of restraint here.

Here's what I am currently carrying in my makeup bag:

1) Balm Chicky Balm Balm Hot Chocolate Love Lip Balm (reviewed here): I am currently completely obsessed with Balm Chicky Balm Balm Lip Balms! They are moisturizing, and they taste great! My favorite (at this particular moment) is Hot Chocolate Love!

2) Glee Gum is one of my very favorite brands of gum, and I always have a pack on me!

3) Susan Thompson Cosmetics Double Mirror Compact (reviewed here): I never leave home without this lovely mirror! It's definitely my very favorite mirror of all time.

4) Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupté Lipstick in Lingerie Pink (reviewed here): This is a breathtakingly beautiful light, cool-toned pink that is utter perfection. I love the color, the formula, and the substantial bullet is ultra chic!

5) Tom Ford Beauty Lip Color in Nude Vanilla (reviewed here and here): This is one of my very favorite lipsticks of all time. As I said in my review, "it is the perfect nude lipstick that possesses a chameleon-like effect because of its ability to melt into the lips and morph into a color that differs a bit from the tube." On me, it becomes a warm pale pink, and I couldn't be happier with it if I tried!

6) Tom Ford Beauty Lips & Boys Lip Color in Flynn (discussed and swatched here): The entire Lips & Boys Collection was utterly brilliant, and unsurprisingly Flynn (a neutral, on the verge of cool-toned, nude  pink) was among my favorites.

7) Dior Addict Lipstick in Urban No. 178 (reviewed here): This is a gorgeous pale, slightly frosty, cool pink. It is on the sheer side, but it is nothing if not stunning!

8) Dior Addict Lip Maximizer in Pink 001 (reviewed here): I often wear this delightful sheer pink lip plumper alone, but I really love pairing it with Dior Addict Lipstick in Urban No. 178. Together they create pink pout perfection!

9) The Honest Company Hand Sanitizer Spray (reviewed here): To date, this is my favorite hand sanitizer. Not only is it effective, but the easy-to-use spray bottle is super convenient.

10) L'Occitane L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream: I have gone through numerous full size tubes of this richly moisturizing hand cream, and will likely go through many many more! I love the smell, the thick texture, and its unbelievably ability to moisturize dry winter hands!

11) Susan Thompson Cosmetics Lola's Secret Creamy Lipstick (reviewed here and featured here): When my close friend created Lola's Secret Creamy Lipstick for me I was moved beyond words. In fact, it is difficult to express the level to which I am touched and honored by this loving act of friendship. Furthermore, this is the most beautiful pink lipstick that I have ever had the honor of wearing! If you buy one lipstick this year, let it be Lola's Secret.

12) BITE Beauty High Pigment Lip Pencil in Bouquet (reviewed here): The BITE Beauty High Pigment Pencil formula is described a long-lasting, matte lip color. As noted in my review of their High Pigment Pencil in Madeira, these are twist up pencils apply smoothly, wear evenly and they do not settle into lip lines. I find that the formula provides the perfect amount of cushion and is very comfortable on the lips. I neither find it particularly moisturizing, nor do I find it in the least bit drying. I get several hours of wear-time before needing to reapply. Bouquet is a gorgeous neutral peachy pink.

I often switch out the larger YSL Tribute Tote for this older Prada Purse. This is a hand-me-down handbag that my sister purchased years ago, and when she stopped using it my mom took it and used it. It then happily made its way to me, and I just couldn't be happier. While there is no zipper top, the strap is quite short allowing it to tuck neatly under your arm. It is made of very durable leather, and despite its age it shows no signs of wear whatsoever. I usually take this bag with me to work to use when I am not toting around my big book bag.

When I use this purse I only carry my wallet, keys, phone and makeup bag. The Rebecca Minkoff Cosmetic Bag is simply too big for this purse, so instead I use the Origins makeup bag that was part of their wonderful Let Us Glow Gift Set (reviewed here).

The real star of the show is undoubtedly this VALEXTRA Zip Around Wallet in Malva Purple, and how I came to find it was nothing short of miraculous. I had been stalking it on the Barneys New York website for what felt like an eternity, but the price was prohibitively expensive. Then one fateful day, during their holiday sale, the price for this particular color was radically reduced (a serious understatement since it ended up about 75% off), and I acted fast and managed to track the last one down. They have a pink version as well as numerous other colors, and they are all absolutely divine. This is truly a whole different level of luxury, and the craftsmanship and attention to detail is unparalleled.

The classic soft calfskin zip purse features vintage-inspired designs, rich leathers and premium quality Italian craftsmanship. Features twelve credit card slots with the brand's distintive 'V' detail, two multi-use compartments, double division for banknotes & documents and a central zip pouch for coins. Interior lining in supple leather and llight gold hardware. The signature “Costa” lacquered ink piping has been hand applied several times to the sheared edges and buffed to finish the piece. 
Made In Italy. Size: 8" × 4"

The interior details are truly astounding.

I put all of the contents of the Rebecca Minkoff Cosmetic Bag into this cute Origins Cosmetic Bag, and the fit was perfect.

Nothing seems to quell my urge to switch purses, totes and wallets because I am one of those people who likes to change things with some frequency, but rotating these two purses and wallets has been so satisfying that I feel as though I have achieved a state of purse and wallet nirvana.

What do you carry in your purse? Do you switch out wallets and purses with any frequency, or do you tend to use them for longer durations?

Purchased by Me, Gifts & Press Samples (Affiliate Links).

Copyright © 2015 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

The Dior Duo for the Perfect Pink Plumped Pout: Dior Addict Lipstick and Lip Maximizer | Review and Swatches

Purchased by Me (Affiliate Links)

Lately I have been wearing pale, slightly frosty cool pink lipsticks, and am over the moon about the Dior Addict Lipstick in Urban No. 178 topped by the Dior Addict Lip Maximizer in Sheer Pink. Together these two produce the absolute perfect pink light plumped pink pout. In fact, these two pair so well, and are so gorgeous that mine already show great signs of wear.

Dior Addict Lipstick is described as a hydrating lip color that is, "inspired by the cutting-edge runway fashions of Dior, this hydrating and volumizing formula dresses lips with a veil of addicting color and spectacular shine."

I would definitely concur that this is a hydrating and volumizing formula, and would add that it is exceptionally comfortable on the lips with the perfect amount of cushion. Urban No. 178 is a sheer pale cool-toned pink with subtle multi-colored shimmer. It beautifully captures the light, and has the perfect amount of shimmer and sheen. The shimmer is neither overdone, nor does it migrate everywhere. It has a rather balmy texture, but it does not immediately slip off of the lips. I'm not sure about the longevity for the more pigmented shades, but I get about two to three hours of wear from a single application. I can easily apply this without a mirror, and while it is on the sheer side it does intensify with multiple passes. Urban No. 178 is absolutely gorgeous, and I can see that I will need to replace it before too long since I reach for it all of the time.

For those among you who prefer greater pigmentation, Dior Addict Lipsticks come in a beautiful range of colors to pick from.

Dior Addict Lipstick in Urban No. 178

Dior Addict Lip Maximizer in Sheer Pink is described as, "Dior's must-have accessory for luscious, full lips." This is probably my third tube of Dior's Lip Maximizer, and I can tell you that I have loved everything about this glossy lip plumper for a very long time. It has a wonderful and refreshing vanilla-mint scent that is so pleasant to the senses, and thankfully the tingle is neither painful, nor unpleasant. Worn alone, it gives the lips a very faint pale pink color that is really lovely, but it can also be worn over or under your favorite lipstick or gloss. My lips are left pleasantly plumped, contoured and moisturized. I absolutely love this formula.

According to Dior,

Give your lips a kiss of instant volume and shine with this invigorating lip plumper. The rich blend of collagen and marine-based fillers smooth and moisturize the appearance of the skin, leaving lips gorgeous and voluptuous. After just 15 days of use, your lips will look noticeably fuller and more defined. Smile big and enjoy the tingly, cooling effect of this formula, rather than the sometimes-painful sting associated with other lip plumpers. The soft vanilla-mint scent and sheer pink tint make this lip necessity gorgeous alone or as a volumizing base or topcoat.

Dior Addict Lip Maximizer was born from backstage beauty secrets, taking inspiration from makeup artists who used extreme measures like pepper powder to achieve the perfect runway pout. Now you can get the same glam results in an instant with this feel-good, delicious formula—pepper-free, of course.

-Hyaluronic Filling Spheres: Leave lips looking and feeling moisturized and contoured.
-Lasting Plumping Action: Supports natural collagen synthesis for moisturized lips.

Dior Addict Lip Maximizer Lip Plumper in Pink No. 001

Left to Right: Dior Addict Lipstick in Urban No. 178 and Dior Addict Lip Maximizer Lip Plumper in Pink No. 001

Urban No. 178 and Lip Plumper in Pink No. 001 are perfectly paired for a plump pink pout!

Dior Addict Lipstick in Urban Ingredients:

Dior Addict Lip Maximizer Ingredients:

Overall Assessment: Plumped pink pout perfection, period!

Dior Addict Lipstick in Urban No. 178 $33.00 for 0.12 oz. from Nordstrom, Sephora, Macy's and Neiman Marcus.

Dior Addict Lip Maximizer $33.00 for 0.2 oz. from Nordstrom, Sephora, Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy's, Bergdorf Goodman and Bloomingdale's (Affiliate Links).

Purchased by Me. All views expressed are categorically my own.
Copyright © 2014 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Dior Diorskin Nude Shimmer in Rose 001 | Review and Swatches

Purchased by Me (Affiliate Links)

The moment that I first saw the stunning Dior Diorskin Nude Shimmer in Rose 001– I imagined it as the perfect pink blush for my cool-toned skin. I repeatedly looked at it lovingly, but didn't buy it, and then I read my friend Sunny's fantastic review which was the final push that I needed to make the purchase.

According to Dior,

The nude skin effect glowing with a halo of freshness. Subtle combination of mother-of-pearl and pigments, Diorskin Nude Shimmer can be used as a light veil on the rounded areas of the face to cache the maximum amount of light and create a naturally dazzling glow. Comes with a mini kabuki brush.
A shimmer powder formula that mimics a fresh glow.

While this is clearly intended as luminizing product that employs the use of pigment with shimmer to create a natural glowing appearance, it is the perfect pink blush for me. There is no question that one can use this as a subtle "blush of color" to sculpt and contour with a stunning complexion-enhancing glow, but it is also an astoundingly beautiful luminizing blush that offers that perfect natural ethereal glow with a beautiful natural flush. That highly sought after glow from within is precisely what I get each and every time that I sweep this stunning beauty across my cheeks.

I simply sweep my brush across the entire compact lingering a little longer in the pink sections, and without fail I have luminizing blush perfection. There is no garish sparkle, but instead the most refined elegant sheen.

It boasts exceptional quality– which is utterly evident as it effortlessly sweeps across the face– and it deposits color evenly. It is very finely milled, has a smooth texture, and does not emphasize pored or fine lines. It is just gorgeous, and so worth having if you are interested in something of this sort.

The compact is ultra-luxe with substantial weight and heft, but it is not bulky! Instead, it is elegant and exceptionally well-made. Included is a nice kabuki brush, but I prefer to use one of my blush brushes instead (either my Tom Ford or one of my Hakuhodo brushes).

I varied the lighting in order to show how the shades modulate in the sun.

My only question is why did I wait so long to buy this beauty?!

Overall Assessment: I'm madly in love! This is absolutely positively one of the best purchases that I made this year! I simply cannot sufficiently underscore the extend to which I am smitten with this twinkling pink beauty. I highly recommend it!

$56.00 for 0.35 oz. Available from Nordstrom, Sephora, Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and Selfridges (Affiliate Links).

Purchased by Me. All views expressed are categorically my own.
Copyright © 2014 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Lolapalooza: The Sephora VIB Edition Volume II

Purchased by Me (Affiliate Links)

As promised, I am posting my second Sephora VIB indulgence. I had to run over to Costco to pick up some essentials, and the pull of Sephora a few minutes away was simply too strong to resist. The lines were insane, and I am pretty sure three quarters of makeup wearing Los Angeles was standing in line with me.

I was looking for a sold-out Hourglass lip liner when the lovely Sales Associate's eyes grew wide and she began to effusively gush over the the Urban Decay Lip Liners that she said were creamy and dreamy to use. So off I went, and not only was her assessment accurate, but the colors were gorgeous. As I loitered, I began to play with a few more of their lip products, and I was so impressed by the quality and texture that the lure of a 20% discount caused me to grab a good assortment!

Here's what I came home with:

Urban Decay Super-Saturated High Gloss Lip Color in Naked (Regular Price $20.00): A gorgeous nude pink sheen!

Urban Decay Super-Saturated High Gloss Lip Color in Lovechild (Regular Price $20.00): A beautiful pale pink.

Urban Decay Super-Saturated High Gloss Lip Color in Apocalypse (Regular Price $20.00): A truly divine vampy deep plum.

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Lip Pencil in Rush (Regular Price $20.00): A stupendous pink-mauve with soft pearl.

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Lip Pencil in Native (Regular Price $20.00): A breathtaking baby pink.

Urban Decay Revolution Lipstick in Native (Regular Price $20.00): A lovely pale pink that is amazing with their Native Lip Pencil.

Urban Decay Revolution Lipstick in Rapture (Regular Price $20.00): A stunningly beautiful dusty rose.

Urban Decay Eyeshadow in Stray Dog (Regular Price $18.00): A cool metallic ash brown that is definitely in the taupe family.

Urban Decay Eyeshadow in Suspect (Regular Price $18.00): A delectable pale golden beige shimmer.

Urban Decay Urban Obsessions Sephora Beauty Insider 500 POINTS Perk: All eyes will be on you with this set of Urban Decay’s statement-making powerhouses. From conservative daytime looks to serious glamour, these attention-getters for eyes have it covered. 

Set includes:

• Urban Decay Eyeshadow in Skimp (0.02 oz)
• Urban Decay Eyeshadow in Bust (0.02 oz)
• Urban Decay Eyeshadow in Guilt (0.02 oz)
• Urban Decay Eyeshadow in Oil Slick (0.02 oz)
• Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Zero- black (0.03 oz)
• Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion (1x use)

Bite BeautyHigh Pigment Pencil in Bouquet (Regular Price $24.00): This is a really pretty peachy pink.

Dior Addict Lip Maximizer High Volume Lip Plumper (Regular Price $33.00): Lip Maximizer in sheer pink. I love this stuff and have purchased it several times before. It plumps nicely and leaves behind a soft sheer pale pink glossy hue!

I was also given an assortment of skincare and perfume samples. I am really quite excited about my purchases, and need to photograph them quickly since the impulse to use them is overwhelming me!

Did you go stark, raving mad at the Sephora VIB Sale? Did you go for seconds like I did, or did you avoid it altogether?

Purchased by me. Affiliate Links.
Copyright © 2014 www.lolassecretbeautyblog.com All Rights Reserved.

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale: Beauty Exclusives!

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is one of my very favorite events, and one in which I tend to purchase a lot. Here are some of my favorite picks!! (Affiliate links).

YOU MUST BE A NORDSTROM CARDHOLDER TO GET EARLY ACCESS!

Early Access for cardholders began July 10, 2013

Double Points July 10-18 on your Nordstrom Card

Clarisonic 'Mia 2- Orchid' Sonic Skin Cleansing System (Nordstrom Exclusive) ($199.00 Value) $149.00

Kiehl's Since 1851 Jumbo Creme de Corps with Pump (Nordstrom Exclusive) ($107 Value) 33.8 oz. bottle and 2.5 oz. travel bottle. $75.00

NARS 'Voulez Vous' Cheek & Eye Palette (Nordstrom Exclusive) $59.00

Jo Malone Nectarine Blossom & Honey Cologne (6.7 oz.) (Nordstrom Exclusive) $190.00

Nordstrom'Fantasy' Makeup Palette (Nordstrom Exclusive) ($150 Value) Sale: $28.90

After Sale: $42.95

Clarins 'UV Plus HP' Multi-Protection Day Screen SPF 40 Duo (Nordstrom Exclusive) ($80 Value) $57.00

Dior '5 Couleurs' Star Eyeshadow Palette (Constellation) (Nordstrom Exclusive) $61.00

M·A·C 'Illustrated' Lip Bag (Pink) (Nordstrom Exclusive) $39.50

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Brightening Basics Set (Nordstrom Exclusive) ($180 Value) $120.00

Rebecca Minkoff 'Erin - Why Limit Happy to an Hour?' Leather Pouch Sale: $49.90 ($75.00 after sale)

Kate Somerville 'Kate's Essentials' Kit (Nordstrom Exclusive) ($204 Value) $98.00

Laura Mercier 'Flawless Colour Favorites' Set (Nordstrom Exclusive) ($146 Value) $85.00

• Arcona ‘Triad’ Toner Pads Two-Pack (Nordstrom Exclusive) ($64 Value) $30.00

stila 'divine shine' lip glaze set (Nordstrom Exclusive) ($110 Value) $25.00

3LAB Anniversary Sale Set (Nordstrom Exclusive) ($460 Value) $225.00

Giorgio Armani Eye Set (Nordstrom Exclusive) ($115 Value) $85.00

Thalgo 'Absolute' Rehydrating Serum (Nordstrom Exclusive) ($79 Value) $49.00 ($70.00 after sale)

Yves Saint Laurent 'Must Have' Set (Nordstrom Exclusive) ($127 Value) $75.00

AMOREPACIFIC 'Brightening Recovery' Set (Nordstrom Exclusive) ($700 Value) $450.00

Bobbi Brown 'Telluride Glow' Set (Nordstrom Exclusive) ($153 Value) $85.00

Erno Laszlo 'Favorites' Set (Nordstrom Exclusive) ($123 Value) $78.00

Laura Mercier Touch Up Brush Set (Nordstrom Exclusive) ($133 Value) $65.00

....And so much more! You Need to be a Nordstrom Cardholder to gain Early Access! Affiliate Links. Stock images courtesy of Nordstrom.