12.4K
I don’t know about you, but here in Switzerland you can clearly feel that summer 2012 is over.
I thought I would write a post on products I have been using the most during the last season, this can involve LE items, older season items, early fall releases… I just took all the products that have been used and loved the most and here they are :
- Bioderma Créaline TS H2O
The water in Switzerland is really hard and makes the skin feel really uncomfortable. With this I can remove my makeup and clean my face more softly in the evening and the morning. For the eyes I always use the Bobbi Brown Long-Lasting makeup remover. - Laura Mercier Repair Creme
Because it’s the only moisturizer that works for me. - Astalift Jelly Aquarysta Rejuvenating concentrate
The other day my boyfriend draw whiskers on my face just for fun, so I had to remove my makeup earlier during the day. In the evening, I looked at the mirror and I thought I still had my foundation on, so I started to remove my makeup again. Then I realized that I actually had no foundation on at all !… My skin was just much clearer, I still have a lot of pigmentation irregularities, but they have been toned town and my skin looks definitely younger. I have been using it for two months but I did not realize that my skin had really changed until very recently. - Omorovicza Correcting Pencil
I use this pencil to cover or highlight small surfaces. - Ellis Faas S103L foundation
For now, it’s my HG. - Burberry Sheer Concealer No 2
Unlike many concealer pens, this one is really great for me. It does not only highlight but it does cover too, without feeling cakey or thick. - Tom Ford Terra Bronzer
My HG bronzer. - Rouge Bunny Rouge Sweet to touch
It’s like a finishing powder, a luminous all-over subtle glow, insanely expensive though. - Chanel Lumière d’artifices
A more dramatic highlighter but I love the shade and the finish on the skin. - Suqqu Veil
Another highlighter… amazing texture. - Sisley L’Orchidée
I used it as a bronzer/blush when I needed a quick wash of color on the cheeks. Serves as both, delivers a beautiful dimension to my cheeks. - Givenchy Croisière 4
Funny texture, something between cream and powder. Love it ! A different bronzer, I was surprised, I really used it a lot, loved the radiant finish. - Givenchy Le Prisme Bucolique 2
Just a beautiful blush. - Guerlain Terracotta Sunny Pink
One of my favorite liquid blushes ever, the glow it delivers is just gorgeous, not an obvious blush, it melts into the skin and the result is really sexy. - RMK Mix for cheeks 4
Ok, you know I love RMK Mix for Cheeks so… it’s HG material, nothing else to add. - MAC MSF Light year
Once you brush away the biggest glitter particles, it’s such a gorgeous highlighter. - Rouge Bunny Rouge Gracilis
Loving all the RBR blushes, this one was the one I reached for the most since I was very often wearing dark smoky looks, I used to pair them with this blush. - Tom Ford Shade and Illuminate
An every day must wear, I feel like something is missing. - Burberry Rose
- Burberry Blossom
Two beautiful blushes. These two are my favorites from Burberry. - Chanel Inimitable 10 waterproof
- Benefit They’re Real
I use these two mascaras together, first I apply the Chanel, then I apply some Benefit on top.
I am still looking for the perfect mascara… I wear these two, but if you have similar options, please let me know ! - Mac Blacktrack
I often wear a thin but dark gel eyeliner very close to the lashes. - Chanel Prelude
Love how easy it is to wear, this paired with dramatic’ish’ gel eyeliner is one of my favorite looks ever. - Suqqu Konruri
I love this palette, the blue shades are really gorgeous, I often combine this palette with more matte shades from other brands. - Burberry Midnight Plum
I have often been doing a dark smokey look with only one dark shade, from the bottom of the lashes, up to the crease and higher, then I apply Trench on the browbone. Easy to do, gorgeous effect ! - Burberry Trench
Loving this as a neutral base color. - Addiction Sugar Blond
For the cupid bow highlighter. - Addiction Rabit Hole
For a neutral dark definition of the eyes. I smudge it with a pencil brush. - Addiction Flash Track
- Addiction Singita
My two favorite eyeshadows from Addiction. - Chanel Pivoine
- Chanel Bois de Rose
These are two amazing lip pencils, great lasting powder and very flattering. - Chantecaille Lip Contour
I need this, the feeling of my lips once applied is amazing. Even if I don’t wear any other product, I love to apply this pencil on its own. - By Terry Gold Digger
My HG gloss. - Cle de Peau T5
- Dior Nude Sillage
- Edward Bess Night Orchid
- Rouge d’Armani 507
- Shu Uemura CR 330
These 5 lipsticks are my favorites for the summer but I will for sure continue to wear them forever.
I have so many things to try for fall 2012, I will be testing a lot of new products but mainly foundations and skincare.
Did you discover a summer HG ?
91 comments
I am lucky to have the same product like you MAC MSN light year. I am going to try some Burberry products. The dark plum looks so sexy and mysterious!
The couenter cosmetic sales girl mentioned time me the TF S&I doesnt suit my skin as it s dry. I Rmbr you mentioned you have dry skn too. I m confused.
LILIAN
Hi Lilian, this MSF is fantastic ! I did not know the Burberry Midnight Plum was so lovely and sexy, a simple and easy smoky eye with a LOT of potential 😉
I had the TF shade and illuminate applied at the TF counter in Harrods, I told them my skin was horribly dry and they never said I shouldn’t be wearing it. Actually it’s really great on my skin. Better than any powder product so I don’t understand why they would tell you that at all.
Re: Mascara.. The first time I wore RMK Separate Curl mascara my dad actually asked me if I was wearing any fake lashes. Yes, my dad, who would see any pork knuckles before he sees me. Since then we are inseparable. 🙂 It stays on all day, does not smudge, and great in keeping the lashes curled and lifted.
Thank you cc ! hahaha !!!!! 😀 😀 😀
that means something !!
I have to try that ! on my wishlist it goes 😉
LOVE this post!! You know I value your opinion and any of these items that I don’t already own I will be checking out asap! 🙂
I’m drooling. The astalift Jelly looks very interesting, will have to check that out. I really want to check out the Burberry blushers. Everything looks just so beautiful, you have fabulous taste.
Dena told me about this Astalift in July, she also said that she did not immediately noticed the result. But waow, suddenly I saw quite a difference after 2 months. I will definitely stick to it.
Thank you for telling me that I have fabulous taste… there is only one huge problem : most of the products I love are insanely expensive 🙁
I see that.. And then I want it!
I’m so pleased the Astalift jelly Aquarista made it onto your HG list; I knew you’d love it. When I next buy Eve Lom’s TLC cream, I will have to send you a sample; it is amazing for dry skin, and I think you’ll love it. I just need to use up some of my other products before I buy any more
I cannot thank you enough for introducing me to this Astalift, I have other products that I have to use up but for now, I will be sticking to this Jelly 😛
http://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/
You can get 25% off the Astalift and anything else you fancy till Monday midnight.
Zuneta also has 20% off till Monday.
We have lots of similar favourites!
Glad you got yourself some Chikuhodo brushes! Too bad they don’t have white haired squirrel brushes for you:))
Don’t forget your studies!!
Hi Buggsiebee, thank you sooo much for the info, I have ordered the Astalift serum as well then ! Can’t wait to try it !
haha yeah but the J Series are soft enough for me to be thrilled with them !
What studies ? 😉
I don’t believe you!!
I know that you’re superwoman & are getting your super Blogposts done AND your studies somehow too!
Don’t forget to eat;)
oh well… superwoman nearly ended at the hospital this weekend..
I am publishing posts that are, or were, nearly finished but other than that, I really have to be careful right now, exercise and relax, my neck is killing me… 🙁
Hi Buggsiebee,
Thanks for the links and info. I have then placed an order with Cultbeauty for some Becca and Acca Kappa products. Good savings. 🙂
Hey cc:)
Happy to have passed on some useful info:)
I’ve never heard of Acca Kappa…..so off I go to check this out…..
Hi Sonia, great post ! Lots of things that I wants to try, especially the Astalift. I have never heard of that brand, I don’t think we have it in Australia, have to find a way to get my hands on some ! Just wanted thank you for all the advice on brushes. I went to Sydney IMATs and bought lots of Hakuhodo J series on your recommendation as well as some squirrel brushes. I am having lots of fun playing with them and they have not disappointed. I also met Rae Morris and had a long chat with her about the making of her brushes which was very interesting. Thanks again, can’t wait for your favourites brushes post !
Hi Lyn,
I am still using the Rae Morris brushes when I remember I have them (the blue pill was really efficient I have to say).
I tried to ask Rae a few questions (and believe me, I am not aggressive or anything), but I never got a reply. Also a brush that rattles is terrible, she should send replacement brushes for that and I really don’t care about her helping with the making of the brushes, I want a brush that’s not upsetting to use.
Also such a difference of quality and even shape between the same brushes, depending on where you order, is not acceptable. I am not even talking about the 200usd I had to pay for customs taxes since they did not send the replacement set from the same country as the original set.
Also the magnet thing is the main reason why they are so upsetting, I am really waiting for her to show us her wonderful idea to store them because I hope it’s worth it… I am so sorry if I sound angry but well… I am just honest and always say what I think and why.
I may still have one or two RM in my favorite brush post but we’ll see… (the Radiance for sure).
Have lots of fun with your new brushes !
Hi Sonia, I can understand that you don’t use the RM when there are so many amazing brushes in your collection. I agree, I think they should exchange/refund the rattling brushes, the explanation that they give is just not good enough, they should offer the exchange/refund. I am under the impression that it doesn’t bother Rae and she thinks it is not a big issue. For example, they had a single brush set laid out for customers to try and even the set they had laid out rattled ! I would have thought the tester would at least be rattle-free ! You should chase them up at RM , it is a lot of $$ to spend on a faulty product. Nevertheless, I am loving the J series !
😀 the testing brushes rattled ? omg… If only I had seen them in person before !
I still use some of them but I am sorry to say that it’s a weird history that happened to me, I honestly don’t know what else to do, I decided to wait for her great magnet idea revelation 😛
At this moment honestly I don’t have much time and energy to chase her or ask any more questions, for me it just makes me love more the other companies like Hakuhodo who really cares about quality and service.
On another topic, the Claudio Riaz brushes that I did send back, I found some similar brushes, same shape but much much cheaper ones from another company that are being delivered to me, not branded Claudio Riaz at all, I really don’t know what they are worth… I’ll keep you all informed 🙂
That’s really worrying news Sonia:(
Health is THE highest priority!
I’m serious when I call you super woman. I really don’t know how you keep up your pace. Your back & neck problems sound pretty serious to me so PLEASE try to slow down, look after yourself & fill your energy reserves for a while.
On a happy note…..here’s a LOVELY sale at one of my favourite online stores. Excellent for those interested in a trying out/ stocking up on a little Ellis Faas:-
http://www.niche-beauty.com/Sale/Make-Up?pEFH=Ellis%2BFaas
Thanks for the info again !!! I ordered a backup of Ellis Faas foundation since it’s so expensive !!! half-price, waoooowww
Thank you also for caring about me, you are such a sweetheart <3
I will be careful, ich verspreche dich 😉
Buggsiebee, I have already received the Ellis Faas foundation, how fast !! Fantastic wrapping, I will for sure order again. So thank you again for sharing that precious info 🙂
Hee, hee….you never cease to amaze me:)
How many other languages can you speak/ write?
I’m not trying to encourage you to spend more, but half price is VERY nice:)) Have you ever ordered from Niche-beauty before? They’re super efficient – one of my favourite online stores actually.
Google is my best friend 😉
and 8 years of German at school helped a bit 🙂
No I did not order from them before, but 50% reduction on a HG item is more than interesting !!!
Good tips you are giving me, I have to write down all these amazing sites you are sharing !
I saw a long reply you wrote in French recently & I assume you speak Spanish….so tell me how many more languages have you got up your sleeve?
I normally don’t even think of sharing because I assume that every makeup junkie gets the same mails I do:) I just thought I’d mention these offers because they’re so good and the Zuneta & Cult offers are just Flashsales so you have to get there fast.
I understand fully italian and portuguese but I don’t speak them well at all. I do speak fluent spanish and french. I would love to speak Japanese though !!
I think I should make a little widget on the site with the mention of the current offers, but I am not often aware of them. I should register to their newsletters probably.
If one day you have some time, please could you send me the sites you usually order and I will add links on the site 🙂
Spanish, French, English, German, Italian, Portuguese……..:)) Well that should pretty much refute the assumption that Beauty Blogs are just written & read by dumbo, airhead superficial make up junkies:))
I’ll start making a list of my fave stores. Some of them only deliver within the EU though & some are only interesting within Germany.
I like http://www.Kultkosmetik.de for MUFE as they are genrally well stocked , super speedy & charge no postage fee within Germany if the order is above €50,-.
Their shipping outside of Germany is expensive though which makes them less interesing for other countries.
Actually what I love is technical skills, I will be doing this training in London, I remember you asked me what I was going to do over there.
I am pretty sure that people that love beauty and makeup are very clever and creative. And actually, just looking at all the comments here in the blog I can also say that they are the most generous, kind and sweet people I ever came across. Don’t you agree ?
Thanks for the links 🙂 I will add them in the sidebar.
Yipp, I think you have attracted a nice bunch of readers. I know that the comments are moderated. Have you ever had any remarks/comments with content which you couldn’t approve?
If I had to do the training course you’re interested in it might as well be in Japanese because I would be understanding none of it anyway:))
No, I never had to filter or block any comment apart from engine spammers, I actually wanted to remove the comment moderation and have tried before I left on holiday but it wasn’t working properly. I have analysed the consequences, read forums and tried to measure the risks, the consequences are only security ones (hacking, etc). I guess I have been lucky with the comments, I was expecting to have to deal with more aggressive comments but so far so good… But if I get them, I will answer.
That’s actually also why I won’t like to do youtube videos, the gurus work really hard to help us all and sometimes they get insulting comments in return and that’s terribly sad ! I am not sure I could cope with these kind of disrespectful behavior.
The training is just related to my job that pays my food and my brushes 😛
And the trip to London is an added job perk!
Best you start learning Japanese because I can see your job taking you there in the future & I want to to be able to explain to the shop assistants EXACTLY what’s on my shopping list:))
It’s good to hear that you haven’t had any neg FB & I certainly hope that it stays that way. One hears so much about that kind of unneccessary & sad behaviour. Why do you think that the You-tube Gurus get more insulting comments than written blogs? If people were half as nice as animals we would live in a much happier world.
It is indeed 🙂
I told my boyfriend that I wanted to start Japanese lessons… he said that I would probably be still taking lessons in 3 years time 😛
He is right, Japanese is really a tough language ! We will design the brushes and bring them to their manufacture 😛 When you can’t talk = draw !!
For a hater to get to a beauty blog he already has to know what he is looking for… in youtube the surfing can lead anywhere, they search stupid dirty names and they reach a blog talking about Nars blushes… 😀
Hello! This is my first time commenting on your blog. I have always been a silent reader 🙂 You have a very nice blog. I like your Sisley L’Orchidée, but I’m not sure whether it’s available on my local Sisley counter 🙁 This summer I am so into bronzer lately, there’re so many nice bronzers out there.
Hi Memoiselle !
thank you for commenting 🙂
I was lucky to get my hands on it at a reduced price. Here we have some kind of autumn sales before the next collection is released, I don’t know about the other countries but makeup in Switzerland is way too much expensive and I always keep an eye on sales !
Sorry…that should have read….I want YOU to be able to explain…..
Why don’t I proof read before posting?!
Sonia, You have definitely collected a wonderful group of readers! You have made your blog a wealth of information from you of course and also from others. (Buggsiebee please always share your awesome links!!)
I agree that you must take care of yourself! 🙂
xo
Stacy, you know that if you want any Ellis Faas or whatever from Niche beauty or any other EU shop for that matter that you can have it sent to me & I will pass it on to you?!
Why thank you 🙂 I am playing on Ebay right now…. question for both of you:
Do you love your Mac MSF Lightyear? I totally let that slip through my fingers and when I saw Sonia’s I am having “no buy” remorse…. Do I need?
Stacy, I love the MSF Lightyear, the shine is a bit too obvious for a day at the office amongst the boys 😛 but I really love it for the evening, when the sparkles catch the artificial light it’s like magic. The Suqqu and the RBR are the ones that I prefer to wear during the day, more like a luminous subtle glow. I hope this helps, I don’t want to push you into buying it but I think it’s really very lovely and worth it’s price 😉
Light Year packs a delicate punch of highlight. Very soft & pretty.
From the same collection I got the Supernova blush which looks terrifying in the pan, but applied with a light hand it gives my cheeks just the right amount of color & glow. I have been using it interchangeably with my RMK 04 since I got them. Funnily enough, I amost disregarded the Heavenly Creatures collection completely when I first saw it. I was thinking too much glitter/ sparkle, but it really isn’t OTT at all.
after a few days away I’m back and i’m pleased to see you wrote those full reviews. I’ll take my time to read them. At first site I thought Tom Ford’s bronzer was a Lauder cream blush, packaging is so similar. I love Givenchy croisière, I have both 3 and 4, they are so smooth, never too powdery or cakey, It’s pity those were limited edition. Love the sisley orhidee too, it gives a really nice glow.
Welcome back Nikoleta 🙂
I got the Givenchy Croisiere in France in September and here in Switzerland they told me they only would be available next Summer 2013 !
I wonder if that’s true ! 1 year after France ??? 😛
Hello again Sonia and welcome back Nikoleta! If I’m not mistaken Sephora has the Givenchy Croisieres… that is if you need more 🙂
Wanted to let you know that I got the RMK Creamy Sheer Powder Cheeks 1 and 2. Using them together I have my own Mix that I love as much as the Mix 04! 🙂
Hello Stacy – I am seriously considering both those shades of RMK Creamy Sheer Powder but can you tell me what the ‘creamy’ part is like? I thought you couldn’t put powder over cream? And how do you apply it – with your fingers? I’m a bit confused…! I’m very tempted by 02 Pink Beige as I’m looking for a very soft, subtle pinky beige blush. The cream part is bothering me but the colours look divine. Either that or the Mix in 01 Pink, but I’m scared it will be toooo pink. The 4 will be too peachy/orange on me.
Thanks if you see this and good to know you’re enjoying the blush!
I think Jo’s resolution to try to keep her makeup to only a few items might be in danger now that she entered our intoxicating world 😉
Just kidding… but that said…. good luck 😉
Ha ha…it’s true – you guys are dangerous enablers!! 😉
Hi Jo! The “creamy” side of the RMK blushes is nothing more than a creamy sheen powder. I too was looking for a soft pink (not too blue based but no orange or brown tones). The pink in the pink/beige is very light and the beige is like a bronzer/ contour. The 01 Rose color is a deeper pink that I like to apply first. The companion color I haven’t used, it is a lavender sheen. The rose and pink from 01 and 02 belong together! I apply them with my Trish sheer blush brush. Long answer I know 😉 The Mix in 01 is very pink but a beautiful option!!
Hoped this helped! Guess you need all 3 🙂
Hi Stacy and thanks so much. I had pretty much decided on the 02 Beige Pink for the reasons you mentioned – not too cool, no blue. Anything too strong can easily overpower my colouring, so maybe I should try first with this, and then see if I need the Mix in 01 Pink. I’m kinda worried now you said it’s very pink! From Sonia’s fab swatches it looks as if the pinks might be cool-ish, but will obviously be toned down by the tan/brown, but I probably wouldn’t be able to use them alone if they’re hot pink or too blue.
Also, that’s good to know about the creamy side; one review said it was definitely a cream which I thought was most odd!
I’m trying to decide if I should go for the Mix as well, or not push my luck and just see how I go with one. I’ve just applied Rose Initiale by Chanel and to me it looks pink in the pan…turns peach immediately on my skin tone. Sooo annoying!
Thanks again, really really helpful, as are all the posts and comments on this brilliant blog.
🙂
I love all of your favorites and see quite a few things I would like to try. I have and love Burberry’s Blossom blush – am wearing it today! 🙂
Thanks ! argh Blossom is sooo beautiful…
Hi Sonia
Hope you’re well. Thanks again for all you info re brushes.
Am onto finding a new foundation now. At the moment I am wearing chantecaille future skin which I do love but so expensive here in Australia and not sure it is brilliant enough. I have been reading reviews on le métier de beaute Peau vierge, koh gen do, cle de Peau and the Ellis Faas skin veil. All of which seem ridiculously hard to get here but seem to have great reviews from blogs. I am wondering if you have tried these and what your thoughts are. I think I stumbled upon in old entries that you are testing the cle de Peau and I know you like the Ellis Faas. Not sure if you’ve tried the others but if so how do you think they compare? Also I saw on earlier comments that the Ellis Faas is on sale on niche beauty but couldn’t tell from the site if they send internationally. I am hoping they do as great price but think I read in a comment that they don’t. I have dry skin but get hormonal/stress breakouts. I like a fairly natural coverage. Any help you could give me would be awesome.
Also I was just reading about the astalift jelly. Where do you get this from?
Thanks so much again
Becs
Hi Becs,
Koh gen do and Le Metier are on my try list for next year. I am going to try the Cle de Peau and the RMK these following weeks, unfortunately I haven’t finished testing these two yet (my skin needs several applications and under different conditions). There are many rave reviews on them and I am looking forward to see if they will work for me.
Just finished with the Armani fusion, review will be uploaded this week.
The ones I have been using recently (my favorites) are the Ellis Faas, the Tom Ford, the By Terry, Chantecaille Future Skin. I prefer the Ellis Faas because it’s the one that most re-plumps my skin, I also find it more long-lasting than the Chantecaille, and my skin appears definitely younger, radiant and more appealing with the EF 🙂 The Cle de Peau, my first impressions is that it delivers more coverage than the EF and is less radiant-looking on my skin but I will recheck and let you know.
I will try to upload a comparison review of these foundations before the end of the year but it may only be useful for dry skin.
I bought the Astalift on feelunique.com (I am in my second pot and I am loving it…) I will take a picture tonight to upload a before vs after result for my review 🙂
Hi Becs! I’m also from Australia *waves* AND I have the Chantecaille Future Skin. I just ordered the EF (via the lovely Buggsiebee), and Koh Gen Do. I also have dry skin (horrific dry patches), and slightly oily t-zone. I’m on a new foundation hunt, mostly because everyone I already have is too light for my beginning of summer tan. I don’t want anything heavy because of the heat and I prefer a natural coverage. I don’t need heavy coverage since my skin is fairly clearly, just some mild unevenness and the occasional pimple in the most obvious place… I agree with how expensive makeup is here 🙁
Just letting you know, Neiman Marcus is US$19.95 DHL express shipping to Australia until Nov 12th atm, and Cle de Peau and Tom Ford (!!!) are pretty much the only two beauty brands that will ship here. I think it’s flat rate? Hope that helps if you were planning on trying out anything from those brands.
Hi Sonia
Thanks for all your help you are awesome. I look forward to reading your reviews. I wrote to Ellis Faas and they are sending out some samples for me to try colours which is very generous. I also recently bought Edward bess highlighter from zuneta so got some samples from them of the rouge bunny rouge tinted highlighter.
I might see if I can get samples from any of the others too. I know koh gen do don’t send them they said they thought I would be 013 but I think from what I’ve read this will be too dark.
I am so pleased I can get a sample of the Ellis Faas though as I think this or the cle de Peau may be what I’m after.
Thanks again. I do hope all the companies send you humongous amounts of samples as your awesome blog must give them lots of business.
Cheers
Bec
Hi Bonnie
Thank you so much for this info. That is awesome I wouldn’t have thought to look there as when I was excited to see neiman Marcus ships to Australia I got on and tried to get a few things but all the makeup seemed not to ship here. So great to know they do ship those brands.
It is crazy the markup here even Australian made brands are more expensive. I love some of the jurlique skin care and just realised recently that it is cheaper on beautybay which I think is crazy.
I’d love to hear what you think of the Ellis Faas and koh gen do once you receive them. That is awesome buggiesbee could send them for you. The sale on niche makes it a good price.
Hope they work well for you
Becs
Hi Becs,
it would be no problem for me to send you the EF from Niche Beauty. I think you’d best move fast though because the sale won’t go on forever and the shade you need may get sold out. Bonnie ordered with her credit card and just had the parcel sent to my address. In addition ( you may have read that here already) If you register for their news letter you get an extra 10%.Their news letters come maybe once every 6 weeks so it’s not hectic. You can get my email address from Sonia if you like. Thanks AGAIN dear, efficient Sonia:D
Hi Becs,
I’ll let you know how both are! I ordered the EF Skin Veil pen from Niche in S103, but the bottle in S104L from urbanretreat uk. It’s cheaper on Niche but they ran out of bottles.
I agree with the markup of Australian brands. For example, Becca! It is cheaper for us to buy Becca overseas than in Australia, and that’s ridiculous when it is an Australian brand. I’m so glad that NM will be shipping here… I’m planning on picking up the Tom Ford Cream Foundation Brush. I was trying to justify buying the CdP concealer, but I don’t really need or use concealer so I figure I might just buy another brush instead…
Will let you know how they are!
Hi Bonnie:)
I’d also be interested in hearing your opnion on the Koh Gen Do. Did you choose the Aqua / the Moisture foundation?
I also wasn’t aware that NM shipped TF out of the US. Great news!! It is really hard to come by here in Germany & Harrods only ships the limited ed TF cosmetics, but not the regular line. Thanks for the tip & for the heads up on the cheaper shipping rate:)
Hi Buggsiebee! I hope NM will ship TF to Germany because it is definitely cheaper and quick as well. Now to decide what to get… I was meant to be on a shopping ban 🙁 but I couldn’t resist. Justified it by saying it’s rare that they will ship outside of the USA and at a cheaper rate…
I will let you know how the Koh Gen Do is. I bought the Aqua foundation as it has lighter coverage 🙂
Hi Buggsiebee
That would be so awesome. Unbelievably nice of you. I will send you an email tonight to get your address.
I sent away for samples to check on colour but now am thinking they probably won’t arrive in time for the sale from what you’ve said. Was just wondering if any of you may have an idea I am about a NW 20 or chantecaille future skin in ivory. Sometimes these run slightly dark on me but probably about right for summer. I think this will be the 102 but I read on MUA that the odd numbers run on the cool tone side and the even numbers tend to warm tones. I am cool toned so was wondering if 101 would be better but I’m not sure if the colour thing is right or if they are all neutralish. I am usually the second lightest shade in foundations sometimes the lightest if they don’t have a huge range.
Thanks again so much buggiesbie. Let me know if there is anything you want from Australia that you can’t get.
Cheers
Becs
Becs, have you tried out the Ellis Faas at Mecca? I went there and they were happy to try it out on me.
Thanks Bonnie I didn’t realise Mecca had Ellis Faas. Also when i first read your post for some reason i didnt think mecca had a store in SA we only moved here recently but just checked and they do. That’s great I will go tomorrow and get them to match me. Thanks for letting me know that. Yay thank you.
No worries, hope it works well for you!
Hi Becs,
the EF 102 is a really good match for me but I’m closer to NW25. My coloring is just slightly yellow toned. I’m more neutral than anything else. The 103 looks too orange on my skin. Would probably better suit a more oriental skin color with a stronger yellow base tone,
If I were you, at this price, I would get 101 & 102 to mix if necc. It’s a really good foundation. No question.
I actually have no idea how long the sale will carry on, but it’s been going for a while & the 102 is a popular shade:)
Hi Sonia
Hope you’re well. I ordered some of the astalift can’t wait to try it.
Hi Bugsiebee was just wanting to check if you got my email ok. Hope it’s still ok for you to send me the Ellis Faas totally fine if it’s not though. No worries at all.
I tried a sample of it in Mecca and I was not that thrilled the MA did use the chantecaille blush in demure though as a bronzer and I felt orangey and mottled looking but the next day I applied it myself with a little bit of tester she kindly gave me and I liked it. When I first put it on I couldn’t see a huge difference between it and the chantecaille it felt light but sort of felt like it sat on my skin. But the real surprise was later when I went back and checked it my skin looked great really glowing and it lasted really well. That’s when I really decided I loved it.
Also wanted to ask a quick question to you all when you ordered your koyudo brushes can I ask which shipping method you chose? They give the option of airmail registered or just airmail or SAL registered or just SAL (not really sure what SAL is)
Hope you’re all well. I am anticipating my hakuhodo brushes can not wait!
Becs
Hi Becs,
I haven’t recieved your mail yet. I confess that it is also possible that I deleted it before opening because i didn’t recognise the email address. Make sure to write Ellis Faas / Becs or whatever in the subject line so that it attracts my attention:)
It also took me a few test runs to get warm with the EF btw.
Which shade are you taking?
With the Koyudo I always use registered EMS which is express. I only do this to speed it up through customs though because otherwise they sit on these parcel for weeks. The Japanese postal sytem is very efficient imo and you could just as easily send it by regular airmail. However, if it gets lost then you have no proof/ refund/ replacement.
Hi Becs,
I am well thank you ! Hope you are ready for your weekend !
Recently I wanted something really badly, arrived at the counter and said “I really want that”, they asked me if I wanted to have it put on (a concealer), I said “ok why not..” and then I left without it, it was terrible !!! If you meet the wrong assistant you may suddenly be very disappointed even if it’s a great product !
I always used EMS with koyudo, it’s 1500 jpy.
I am also waiting for my Koyudo order, this one is going to be amazing so I am totally excited 🙂
Hi Bonnie:)
NM does ship TF to Germany too. I checked this out directly after I read your post last night. Thanks again:)
I’m going to get a trial kit of the Koh Gen Do moisture foundation & primers & test them. Looking forward to your FB on the Aqua.
Hi Sonia yay can’t wait for your koyudo post!! Hope you love your brushes when they arrive.
Thanks so much Buggsiebee I have re sent email. Let me know if you don’t get it.
I also wanted to ask you where you are getting your koh gen do samples from? I can’t seem to find anywhere that ship international that have the sample pack.
Have a great weekend. Sleep well
Becs
Upps…..Sonia gave you my hotmail address & I never look there. Sorry:((
Found your mails & will reply directly.
Sorry 🙁
I was going to ask someone to send it over for me.
I’ve changed my mind again though. I’m going to wait on Sonia’s report first;D
Yay Sonia!!
I’m enjoying my La Prairie at the moment so there’s no reason to be looking for something new yet:)
On my side I don’t know where to get the Koh Gen Do samples, if I manage to get the info I let you know! If anyone knows… could you please share ? Thank you <3
I am in Barcelona for the weekend, this is such a beautiful city !!!
Buggsiebee, NM ships to Australia too but they don’t ship a lot of the makeup 🙁 oh well! I will let you know what I think. I need something that won’t highlight dry patches (which still haven’t gone away despite the summer weather grr…) and is fairly light 🙂
And I think the promo is until December 10th? More time to decide and save up!
Perhaps Ellis Faas will be the answer. I don’#t find that her foundation highlights any dry patches, but my skin is not extremely dry so perhaps I’m not the best judge of that.
Here’s hoping it arrives soon:))
Hi Buggsiebee thanks very much got your email will order tomorrow.
Sonia hope you have a lovely time in Barcelona! I went briefly way back when I finished school but I remember loving it!
Hi 🙂
I am back from Barcelona now, it was a fantastic weekend, I loved it ! and guess what I have in my hands ? the Koyudo order that I place a long time ago (my fault they shipped late because I kept on adding a few things…)
Not disappointed by the quality of the brushes I have received, actually very impressed. I can finally start to prepare a Koyudo review, I think I have all that I wanted to test 🙂
Hi Sonia
Thats great you enjoyed your weekend so much. Yay can’t wait for the koyudo post!
Sonia wanting to ask your opinion on finishing powder have you tried the Chanel poudre universelle Libre and the Guelain meteorites in teint rose. Would you recommend either?
Also do you have a primer you recommend?
Cheers
Becs
hi Becs !
I have been playing with my new Koyudo tonight ! I took some quick pictures for you that I will upload tomorrow, but just of the Limited Edition things I got just in case you were all curious about their size and quality before it’s too late 🙂
I have received the Chanel poudre cristalline (extrait de poudre libre) from a friend some time ago but I haven’t tried it yet 🙁
I use Guerlain Meteorites very often (I don’t have the teint rose I am afraid), but any other Meteorites it’s actually what I use the most (easy, fun to apply and the application is very light and glowy). I can tell you the ones I love to use if you like.
One of my favorites finishing powder is the Suqqu Nuancing pressed powder, if I need more setting capabilities but still something nice for my dry skin I will pick this one, easy to travel with and quick to use, totally invisible and doesn’t dry my skin out.
I don’t often use primers, the problem is that I don’t take the time to use them but I really should (have big pores and my skin has many pigmentation irregularities) !
It depends what you are searching for on a primer, a more long-lasting wear of your foundation, a more glowy finish, a more tone-down of your redness, a more flawless finish, more matte, etc etc…
For example I need to use a primer with Chantecaille Future Skin, otherwise it doesn’t last long. I used to wear the Hourglass one (my bottle is finished, it was nice also for the pores, a more smooth finish), since then I tried Burberry fresh glow (for a more luminous finish), then I am loving Suqqu cream base, which evens out my skin a little bit without being too obvious, then the Cle de peau, it’s stunning, it really makes a difference and lightens my skin a lot (sometimes too much so I need to be very careful otherwise it would look like I have a whitish mask).
What are you looking for in a primer ? If your skin is good enough and your foundation delivers the result you want, it’s not always a necessity to use primers but it might help depending on your needs.
Cheers 🙂
Hi Sonia
How was London? Are you back now?
Just a follow up question re primers with the cle de Peau have you used the one for lines or the one for pores?
Hope you had a great time on your trip. Am living tge astalift too so thanks do much for another great recommendation!
Hi Becs,
YES ! I AM BACK 😀
I arrived Saturday night. London was great as always.. shops were so incredibly busy. I was happy to return to my little sky resort in the mountain 😛
I have a little post about it that is being prepared, hopefully I can upload it quickly so that you know a little bit more about the shopping and the upcoming reviews.
I tried the Cle de peau for lines, but I haven’t finished testing it yet ! I am doing some testing on the La Prairie at the moment and then I switch to the Cle de Peau. I was a bit too dark to try the shade I had in daylight (a bit too obvious) but now that my skin is more fair I can go ahead and try it safely during the day.
I am really happy you are loving the Astalift ! I got some new skincare and also more Fujifilm products (small sizes) to have a go and test the rest of the line.
MIGHTY glad to have you back Miss Sonia;)
It was pretty quiet around here in your absence:(
Did you visit the Tapas bar I told you about? You may even have bumped into some S. African friends of mine:) They were also in Barcelona last WE and asked me if I remembered the name of the bar/restaurant we spent so much time in last time we were there:) It was so funny, because I had just fished out the address for you one day previously.
HELLOOOO 😀
yes I did go there but it was packed !!! I couldn’t even get in but it looked AMAZING 🙁 I gave the address to my colleagues who go there more often so that they could try it.
but I will go next time because I intend to go back to this city! I tried a nice one CDLC totally crazy atmosphere and the food was great !
I was staying at the W hotel, do you know it ? the view was to die for… I recommend you to try it if you didn’t already !
Finally got the Koyudo red brush … gosh you were right… it’s the softest thing I ever tried !
Heh, heh. I figured you might try the W. Nice huh??
I wouldn’t like to pay their prices out of my own pocket though.
CDLC looks right up my alley:))) I guess one should book?
I have friends in the IT branch who are often in Barcelona for trainings etc. so they are always happy to find a new feeding place.
YAYYYY….VERY glad that the red squirrel brush made you happy! It is sooooooo soft. It’s made for pigmented blushes.
it’s not “that” expensive, it is but, expensive-affordable for an occasion, the breakfast is excellent as well and so worth it. There is a tapas bar (el gallito) just below the hotel that is delicious and so cosy !!! great discoveries !
I just did not like the toilet and shower, the doors are a bit too transparent 😛 If you don’t go with your boyfriend, hmhm…
yes you have to book for the CDLC, you can even eat on a bed 😛
after midnight they move the tables in the center and you can dance.
Can’t wait to try the Koyudo brushes tomorrow, did you order the Christmas set ?
Sooo…did you get all wild and crazy & dance up a storm?? Is your man a party type?
I bet if we were all there together we would have a HUGE party!
Of course I ordered the Xmas set!! BUT………..
with the German customs department involved, I should get the set by Easter !!! – if I’m lucky!! GRRRRR…
We were there with two other friends (one colleague and his girl friend), they also like to party and it was fun, we did not party all night because I had a difficult week (was sick until Thursday) and could just barely walk 🙁
But I still had fun and a fantastic time over there ! I wish you were there with me !!!
By the way, I did not get many makeup items in Spain, just got the new Armani palette in Boudoir, the new Dior lipstick in Lady and the lacquer in Lady (just for the bottle…).
Some pics of the Koyudo Christmas set are going to be uploaded tomorrow, the brushes are drying at this moment, but don’t worry, it’s a very nice set ! I thought the big one was a Fupa 02 but it’s not exactly the same brush which is a nice surprise ! and the other pink one looks PERFECT for cream contouring !!! can’t wait to try it!
I can’t believe your customs 🙁 what a nightmare !
I hope you’re feeling healthy again this week? What a pity that you weren’t feeling 100% for your weekend away:(
Yupp, those little Dior bottles from the holiday collection are gorgeous!
I got one of the new Armani palettes too. I got # 2 which wasn’t incredibly adventurous of me, but it’s good for a super easy eye makeup on those lazy days:)
Looking forward to seeing your Koyudo Xmas set.
Did you see this?
http://mybeautyhoard.blogspot.de/2012/11/koyudo-blush-brush-review.html
I was never interested in that pink heart shaped powder brush before, but it looks so pretty up close;)
I’d better start a new shopping list.
Can you even imagine being able to shop Koyudo like that!!!! I am so completely jealous!!
Me too 🙁