Orange You Glad Its Mac Cosmetics!!

While I've been seeing orange lips everywhere these days I didn't think it was for me until I was inspired by The Glitter Geek who was rave tweeting about Mac Pro's Neon Orange lipstick. It motivated me to finally give in to my curiosity and so while putting in my online Mac order online I might have snuck in a Neon Orange lipstick (PRO shade).

I was so excited when it came in that I swatched it right away, now keep in mind I'm the girl that LOVES the idea and look of lipstick but that rarely wears it. Neon Orange is indeed neon orange but with a slight hot pink added into the mix which makes it super hot! Although I feel its way too bright for even an occasional lipstick (for me) I would most def whip this baby out for those random nights out where a sexy look is required ;)

Once I tried an orange shade on my lips I was hooked and in search of the perfect shade that wasn't too over powering and that's when I came across a stunning orangy gold also by Mac called CB 96 (created for designer Christian Blanken in 1996.Thanks Lucky for the correction). Now this is an orange I DO feel comfortable wearing for a fun dinner or a flirty night out. The gold undertones will work year round and look even hotter in summer ;)

Orange lips are definitely a hot trend and when you find a shade that works for you it can compliment any skin tone!

Do you own any orange lipsticks? Whats your fav??

FLASH SALE!! 50% off Vasanti Cosmetics 24hr sale starts NOW!

You all know my love for Vasanti Cosmetics so I just had to share this with you all.
For the next 24hrs (ends tomorrow at 11am) VasantiCosmetics.com is offering 50% off its entire inventory!!
Use coupon code Love2011 at checkout and voila 50% off all your favs!

Dont wait because this sale will be over before you know it ;)

Nail Polish Bottles That Just Wont Open!

Have you ever reached for your fav polish only to struggle with opening it? Some of us may have the first instinct to use our teeth to pry that baby open but that can be a risky move and can damage your teeth, so here are some tips on how to get that bottle open and how to prevent it from happening again! 


Each time you remove the brush, you probably swipe it against the bottle's edge to get rid of the excess polish right?. The odd time polish will drip down the sides and dry up only to seal that bottle tight!

The Cure: As a first step, use a jar gripper or wrap a rubber band several times around the cap to give you a better grip. If that doesn't do the trick run hot water over the bottle to loosen the dried polish, then try again.

Tip: When you finish using the polish, use a tiny amount of remover on a tissue to clean around the rim of the bottle and be sure to store the bottle upright. This should prevent you from having to deal with a stuck polish lid in the future!

UGG Boots at 40% off?? YES Please!

When UGGS first came on the market I was like what the heck are those ugly things but over the years they have grown on me not only for the style but also the warmth my toes need for these Canadian winters.

Recently I was chatting with my girl Lena about Uggs and how I just couldn't justify paying full price for a pair, then yesterday I got a email from her letting me know about this amazing Ugg sale at 40% off from Pricematters.ca who are liquidators who apparently got Costcos Ugg overstock. She purchased a pair, had spoken to their reps and talked to a few ladies who had a pair in hand who all confirmed they were 100% authentic and in perfect condition so I felt way more comfortable about the purchase.

I hummed and hawed and in the end I did it I bought 2 pairs :0 The first is the Ugg Classic Tall Boots in black listed on the SoftMoc.ca site for $274.99 which I got at 40% off on the pricematters.ca site for $139.99 (plus $20 for tax and shipping total $159.99)!!

The second was the Ugg Classic Cardy Boots in black which go for $174.99 over at SoftMoc.ca and I picked them up at pricematters.ca for a cool $79.99 (plus $20.00 shipping for a total of $99.99)!

I was able to get 2 pairs for the price on 1! If you want your UGGS at 40% off head on over to PriceMatters.ca asap before all the sizes are sold out!

New Year, New iMac?!

Happy New Year!!! 

I hope everyone had a fabulous start to the year. I know I have!
As some of you may know from Twitter I had recently listed my condo for sale and got a great offer new years eve which I accepted so my house was officially sold as we rang in the new year :) That was a great sign of amazing things to come and after a stressful last year I welcomed it with open arms.

I also decided it was time to invest in a few things I had been going gaga over for a while now, a new imac (got some Apple gc's for xmas) computer and a sleek desk that fit perfectly in my condo but that would also work when I move to a house. It actually all came together as I happen to go on kijiji.com a few days ago and see this newly listed Ikea table.

It was listed at $60 which was already a deal considering the original cost was $80 US + Tax and the fact that this item has been discontinued in Canada made it an even better deal. I contacted the seller and we settled on $55 because he was willing to hold it for me over the holidays. I finally went to grab it yesterday and it was a great experience as he was a really helpful guy who even helped us disassemble it and shove it into my car!

We brought it home and set it up against a wall in my dining area which was bare before.

 You can see its very thin and doesn't take up much space but is long enough that 2 people can sit here comfortably. We then set up the imac and brought my current laptop over, turned around 2 of my dining table chairs which match perfectly and voila!

This is how the desk works in the room you can see that it doesn't take up much space at all and how well it looks with the dining table.

I couldn't be happier with these holiday purchases and how well they fit in my space. Although I wont be in this place for much longer I have no doubt that this set up can work in any space I'm in.

Face Atelier Shimmers & Shadows a Beauty Junkies Heaven!

So its obvious my love for Face Ateliers foundations & lip glazes has always been there but when I got the chance to try out their shimmers & shadows I was excited but curious to see if they would hold up to the quality and fabulousness of the rest of the line.

As soon as these babies arrived I dipped my finger in and applied it to hand, my mouth dropped and I was going around showing anyone I could at how stunning these colors were. The shimmer powders ($19ea) have the most wonderful finish to them and they blend with such ease. The color pay off was amazing too, one light touch with the tip of my ring finger could cover an entire lid with a wash of color.

The shadow I chose is called Sapphire ($17ea) a brilliant shimmery navy color. It blends like a dream and is so versatile, Ive been using it as both a shadow and liner! 

Everyone was so impressed that I have already been asked to order these for my girlfriends! Now that says a lot no?

Close up so you can see the flecks of shimmer.

The Face Atelier eyeshadow refills are the same size as the Mac ones so they fit into my palette without any issues.

The picture does NOT do them justice they are even more brilliant in real life but you can see the amazing sheen they give off here.

Snake Eyes is a duotone that goes from brown and green which I thought was really cool because you can play this up in so many ways. My fav though is probably the White Gold which is comparable to Mac's Vanilla pigment and is amazing for highlighting and the Aubergine which is the most amazing cranberry color.

So once again Face Atelier has left me wanting more! Next on my list... iced amethyst, iced champagne & golden pearl shadows!


Remember Face Atelier's website offers samples at a $1 each of their shimmer powders so you're able to try before you buy and trust me you will want to buy!


 

* These products were sent by PR for consideration however all reviews are based on my honest opinions.

Winner of the Foxy Originals Giveaway is.....

Thank you to all 92 of you who entered the Faces By Farah & Foxy Originals giveaway! The winner was drawn using random.org which pulled lucky #13 which was a comment left by LAUREN!

You have won any 1 piece from the entire Foxy Originals Collection!!

Congratulations Lauren I will be emailing you to get your info. You will have 48hrs to get back to me or another winner will be chosen. Thank you again to all those who entered I hope you will continue to stay tuned for more exciting posts and great giveaways!

Xbox Kinect is like whoa!

I hope you are all enjoying this festive time of year with your loved ones I know I have... a lot actually because of one new toy thats not even mine (yet)!

I went over to my girls house last night and she introduced me to the Xbox Kinect and the Dance Central game she was playing. At first when she suggested I try it out I was really hesitant because I was shy and didnt want to look like a fool in front of others but after her adorable daughter came over to me and said "aunty Farah can you do a dance battle with me" I had no choice!

Once I got over my timidness and began to get in to the game I was hooked. It was so much fun and you can actually work up a sweat just dancing. This thing is crazy it picks up all your body movements head to toe without having to attach anything to you. We played all night and since I have set a get healthy plan for 2011 and we conveniently got a new Xbox for xmas I'll be getting a Kinect of my own so we can battle each other from the comfort of our own homes ;)

Have you tried the Xbox Kinect?

Happy Holidays From Me to You Elf Styles!

Wishing you and yours a very Happy Holidays from me to you!
Enjoy ;)

I have to give credit to my cousins S&A who introduced me to the magic of elfing yourself! Good times!
xoxo

30 Fabulous Holiday Gift Ideas: #30 Coffee in the form of a Gift Card!

Holiday Gift Idea #30

 COFFEE GIFT CARDS

To their favorite coffee shop!

Its the day before Christmas and you are looking for a last minute gift for a stocking stuffer, neighbour, co-worker or even your waxing lady who has the task of de-furring you every month... what do you do? You don't dare go near a mall today for fear you will spend an hour just trying to find parking.

Solution: A Gift Card to your local coffee shop!

Why this works: Even if you aren't sure your recipient drinks coffee there are many alternatives such as hot chocolate, chillers & yummy baked goods that are sure to satisfy even the pickiest of people. Most people stop to get some sort of beverage at the coffee shop each morning so why not make it a little easier by prepaying it for them ;)

I got a few GC's to different coffee shops in my stocking last year and used them all throughout January and February to help keep me warm! I'll be stepping out today to pick up my last minute stocking stuffers courtesy of Starbucks, Second Cup and Timmies!


So there you have it folks my 30 Fabulous Holiday Gift Ideas! To review all 30 ideas please click here :)

30 Fabulous Holiday Gift Ideas: #29 For HIM - Godiva Chocolate Cigars

Holiday Gift Idea #29

 GODIVA CHOCOLATIER BOUTIQUE

Chocolate Cigars

 

Stuck on what gift to get the man in your life? Need something for his stocking thats yummy too? Well look no more because this is the perfect solution! 

I got this for the man on my list's stocking last year and it was a hit! I believe they retail for $17 + tax and come with 4 life size cigars per pack.

Godiva Chocolatier Boutique stores can be found in most major malls so next time youre out and about be sure to stop in and pick up some of these yummy cigars :)

You really cant go wrong with chocolate!

 

30 Fabulous Holiday Gift Ideas: #27 & 28 Vasanti Cosmetics Eye Wonder & Long Lash Mascara Duo

Holiday Gift Idea #27 & #28

 VASANTI COSMETICS 

Eye Wonder Triple Action Peptide Eye Cream & Long Lash Mascara Duo 
(Limted Time Only)

For a limited time only when you purchase the Eye Wonder eye cream you get a FREE mascara woohoo! Not just any mascara Vasanti's Long Lash mascara. This mascara's true black formula darkens, lengthens and thickens from root to tip without clumping or flaking. It lifts and separates for fuller looking lashes, conditions your lashes with Shea Butter and Silk Protein to help keep them healthy. The secret to their best-selling mascara is the combo of the formula and the brush, they were in development for 1 year to get it right so you know its gotta be fab!

Suggested retail Price: $16.00 CAD

 The Eye Wonder eye cream is their #1 seller for these reasons it helps reduce the appearance of puffiness, wrinkles and dark circles, no matter the cause! Most people don't know why they have darkness under the eyes - Whether it's hereditary, thinning skin, broken capillaries, inflammation or lack of sleep, Vasanti has included the latest in botanicals and peptide technology to help combat, no matter the cause.

I recently got a jar of Vasanti's Eye Wonder at the National Womens Show and immediately put it to use that night. I have been using it morning and night everyday since then around my eyes, my forehead and smile lines and can already see a difference. The darkness around my eyes hasn't gone away (yet) but it definitely looks brighter and to me that's huge because I'm that girl that's tried everything to help my dark circles!

The Jar is huge (120g) as most eye creams come in these itty bitty jars and its non greasy formula allows me to feel comfortable wearing it all over my face 2x a day! Vasanti does not test on animals and is formulated WITHOUT: mineral oil & petrolatum, sulfates, GMO's, Triclosan.

Although some may think the price of Vasanti's Eye Wonder Cream is on the high side in the grand scheme of eye creams its really not. This jar is double the size of most eye creams on the market and since a little goes a long way it can last upwards of 7-8 months!

 

Plus for a limited time only you get a FREE mascara when you purchase the Eye Wonder cream! Available in stores (I recently saw it at my local Shoppers Drug mart) or online at vasanticosmetics.com. Simply add the Eye Wonder to your cart and then use promo code FREEMASCARA and you will automatically be shipped a free mascara with your order.

Hurry the promo code is only valid online until Dec 31^st 2010.

Suggested retail Price: $42.00 CAD

Availability: VasantiCosmetics.com , Amazon.com (US) & Select Shoppers Drug Marts & Rexall's in Canada. Click here to find a store near you!

30 Fabulous Holiday Gift Ideas: #26 E.L.F Makeup Brushes

Holiday Gift Idea #26

 

E.L.F ESSENTIALS

Cosmetic Brushes

I recently discovered that E.L.F makeup brushes and accessories were sold here in Toronto at my local Dollarama for $1.50, while that is more than they retail for online ($1usd) once you do the conversion and save on the shipping costs its a fabulous deal.

I picked up the Total Face Brush for my personal brush collection and I have to say its now my go to bronzer brush. Ill admit it isn't the softest brush out there but for the price I cant complain. E.L.F doesn't test on animals and the brush has been ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in your hand.

These brushes are cheap enough to buy the whole collection and would be a great gift for anyone from a makeup newbie to a beauty junkie!

Suggested retail Price: $1.50 (Dollarama)

Availability: Online,  and at any Dollarama location

30 Fabulous Holiday Gift Ideas: #21-25 The Body Shop's 2010 Winter Trend Collection

Holiday Gift Idea #21-25

 

THE BODY SHOP'S 

2010 Holiday Collection

Today Ill be introducing you to some of the products from The Body Shop's Winter Trend Collection. First up the "Midnight" Eye Palette which is perfect for the party look this season with four pearlescent eyeshadows and a shimmery cream highlighter. This palette measures approx 5" by 3.75" and contains a good sized mirror and double ended sponge applicator for on the go glam!

The colors all have a nice holiday shimmer to them and are 4 of the hottest and more wearable shades of the season. This palette can easily take you from day to night and is compact enough that it will it in most handbags. The magnetic closer makes sure everything stays where it should be and it comes with a protective plastic piece over the shadows which I have kept because it helps to keep the mirror nice and clean!

The collection also includes 2 nail polishes (Twinkle Pink & Starry Night) that have the most beautiful shimmer to them. I have been sporting Twinkle Pink and love the shimmer thats a must for this time of year! Its shimmery enough to give it a really nice effect yet subtle enough to wear to the office without drawing attending to your hands.

This collection certainly has a little something for everyone including those that love them some glitter! The New Star Dust's are so festive and would be perfect to finish off any New Years outfit you have planned! While the jar may look small keep in mind a little goes a long way and so this product should last you a while. It comes in 2 shades Pink & Gold and is suggested on the site to use this product to add sparkle to the face and decolletage with our little pods of glitter.

This collection would make a wonderful gift for any gal on your list and for a limited time (now - Dec 24th) The Body Shop is having a deal where if you purchase a bag for $5 everything you can fit in it is 50% off!! Imagine the savings ;) The Body Shop has really stepped up its makeup section and is worth a second look next time you're in the store.

Suggested retail Price: $10-$25

Availability: Online,  and at any Body Shop Location

  

* These products were sent by PR for consideration however all reviews are based on my honest opinions.

30 Fabulous Holiday Gift Ideas: #20 Foxy Originals "Flex" Necklace GIVEAWAY!

Holiday Gift Idea #20

FOXY ORIGINALS
"Flex" Necklace

GIVEAWAY!

There’s nothing square about the high style of this box chain with trendy toggle, worn to the side, the front or the back. This versatile piece is available in Gold/Gunmetal and Silver/Gunmetal. Its thick box chain design and quality material not only gives it some weight but also keeps it from every getting tangled which for me can sometimes be a struggle with longer necklaces. The longest chain length is 40" and its part of Foxy's Cabaret collection.

What I liked:

• Good quality (pewter based and dipped in silver or gold)
  
• Box chain doesnt tangle 
• Versatile and works with any outfit
• Love the honeycomb shape of the toggle
• Can dress up any outfit
• Not too flashy but still stylish

What I Disliked:

• While I love the chain because it doesn't tangle it does sometimes get twisted and misshapen which I guess is bound to happen with any box chain necklace.

Who to gift this to:

• A young fashionista
• Anyone who loves versatile jewelry
• A girlfriend gift exchange

With a little imagination this piece can be worn in so many different ways which keeps me reaching for it over and over. Here are just a few ways I have been wearing it. 

I have been a LONG time fan of Foxy Originals since my first piece I got at the One of a kind show years ago and to this day I still get compliments when I wear it. I love the stellar quality and unique designs are whats the founders Jen Kluger and Suzie Orolare known for!

Foxy Originals and I have teamed up to bring you an amazing giveaway!!

What You Can Win:
Your choice of any 1 item from the entire Foxy Originals Collection!!

How you can win (mandatory):

• Go to FoxyOriginals.com & pick one item on the site that you would want on your holiday wish list (enter your answer in the comments below)
• You must be a follower of the FacesByFarah blog (click the follow button at the top right, I will be checking this if you are chosen as the winner)
• Leave your email address in your comment so I can contact you if you are the winner.

Bonus Entries:

• "Like" Foxy Originals on Facebook (1 entry)
• Follow Foxy Originals on Twitter (1 entry)
• Follow FacesByFarah on Twitter (1 entry)
• "Like" FacesByFarah on Facebook (1 entry)
• Subscribe via email to the Faces By Farah Blog (top right of site) (1 entry)
• Blog, Tweet or Facebook about this giveaway and comment with the link (2 entries)
• You MUST leave a separate comment for each entry letting us know you have followed and where or it wont count.

 Details:

• Open to Canadian & US residents only
• Contest closes at 11:59pm on December 29th 2010 & winner will be chosen at random & announced the next day
• Winner must be ok with their shipping address being passed on to the Foxy Originals team as the item will be shipped directly from them.
• Winner will be contacted via email and have 48hrs to respond or a new winner will be drawn

Good Luck!