There are a few re-occurring brands on this blog, even though I receive quite a lot of PR samples I chose the brands I want to feature on my blog and put effort in getting a post together. Today I want to talk you through the top 3 products from Bobbi Brown's range, there are SO many fantastic products but I have actually tried all 3 products below and love it as much as I did before and now.
BOBBI BROWN CRUSHED LIP COLOUR - $46
This new comer took the internet by storm with 21 mind blowing shades. Pigments of a lipstick and formula of a moisturising lip balm. You can use it as a tinted lip balm or layer like a lipstick. The options are endless. Each Crushed Lip Colour is rich in Vitamin E, C and Beeswax that will glide onto your lips creating a satin matte finish. This is perfect for versatile gals who like to dress for the occasion and would like her lip products to do the same!
The ULTIMATE moisturising primer to make your makeup application smooth and flawless. The texture is beautifully lightweight, oil free and never greasy. Your skin will feel super moisturised and hydrated with shea butter.
I almost never use a primer because I find most primers to feel too heavy, blocks my pores and breaks me out. This is the perfect base with beautiful citrus scents, you can apply this directly onto your skin, or layer it on top of your serum and moisturiser. Next time you visit Myer or David Jones, give this a try, you will love it.
Shimmer Brick is Bobbi Brown's all time best seller - in my honest opinion!! I purchased my first shimmer brick in Nectar when I was traveling in Hong Kong after graduating from high school. It was the most beautiful blush I have ever seen, I brought my beloved shimmer brick back to Sydney and showed my closest friend photos of my haul. She was instantly attracted to the shimmer brick and picked up the goddess like product the next week.
Bronzer Shimmer Brick is another story, I have been using Bobbi Brown's matte bronzer for a long time and it was perfect to sculpt. Bronzer Shimmer Brick on the other hand will create the perfect sun kissed glow. This product will glide onto your skin, it's easily buildable (single dip swatch below) and won't give you any muddy effects.
Did you know Bronze Shimmer Brick is hand made in Italy featuring super fine pigments. Even though it's shimmery, it won't look glittery on your face.
A highly concentrated, high pigment concealer designed to brighten under eye darkness.
Softens hollows and tired lines in an instant
Banish signs of tiredness
Non-drying, water/sweat/humidity resistant formula
Crease free finish
Available in 15 shades
$52 AUD
MY VERDICT
PACKAGING: The concealer is in a standard plastic tube with a wand applicator to make application swift and simple. The applicator is long with a rounded tip.
FORMULA: I found the formula to be fairly dry and the wand is a bit stiff, not really what I had expected for a concealer. After a 3 swipes you may need to go back to the tube for more product. However once applied, the concealer is very easy to blend and surprisingly hydrating. Although having said that I would have preferred for the concealer to be a little bit more runny.
SHADE: The shade I have been trialling is in Beige, I personally found this shade to be a little bit too dark for my under eyes but perfect to use as a facial concealer.
FINISH: I have never experienced any creasing using this concealer, nor would it latch onto dry areas.
UNDER EYES: Because the shade is slightly darker than what I needed to create a luminous finish for my under eyes, I wasn't able to experience the full effect of this concealer. I don't have any lines under or around my eyes so I can't comment on whether it would make lines disappear. But I the formula is pigmented and creamy once applied, which are ultimate pluses for an under eye concealer.
AS A FACIAL CONCEALER: To be honest, I have been using this concealer as a facial concealer more so and I really like it. The shade is perfect, on good skin days, I would even draw lines all over my face and use it for my full face. It provides a flawless luminous coverage and finish.
BRUSH VS FINGERS: The concealer works well with both a dense brush or fingers. I prefer to use my fingers for under eyes and a dense foundation brush for face.
WEAR TIME: This concealer will definitely last a standard 8hr work day and up to 12 hrs but you may need a touch up.
No Makeup ----> Bobbi Brown Instant Full Coverage Concealer only
The product featured was provided for editorial purpose
For the few weeks I have been using Mecca Max products on a daily basis, giving everything a solid go because I felt comfortable enough to produce this post for you guys.
I feel that the launch of Mecca Max has been a very positive occurrence for many people, especially from a financial perspective.
If you want to know what's hot from Mecca Max's range, keep reading!
MECCA MAX TRIPLE THREAT FACE SHAPER POWDER $30
I have recently replaced my old bronzer/blush/highlighter trio with triple threat. The powders are encased in a beautiful metal packaging with a nice big mirror. The powders itself are not matte - I personally would prefer a matte bronzer, however the shimmer in the bronzer is fairly minimal and not quite noticeable on your face. I have been using the bronzer to contour, it seems to work fine on my light olive skin.
The highlighter is absolutely gorgeous, I've had people ask me which highlighter I am using when I wear it. The highlighter is buildable for a night time look. The blush is a rosy everyday staple that is also buildable. All three powders have a more warmer undertone with what appears to be gold shimmers. I personally feel that this powder is more geared towards those with a lighter complexion. However, you can still use this if you have a medium to light medium complexion, as the shades are all buildable.
MECCA MAX BANANA BAKE SKIN FILTER $24
This powder possess a yellow undertone which may not a good match for someone with a cooler complexion to use on it's own, but it will work fine as a light dust of finishing powder over foundation. Luckily it works great with my olive skin. I love using this product to set my under eye concealer and light dabs along my T-Zone, I feel that it does provide a filter over my skin making my skin look more even. I like this product, however I don't love it. It is however, a handy powder that is suitable for your purse.
MECCA MAX A-LIPSTER LIQUID LIPSTICK in SKINNY LATTE $28
Skinny Latte is a beautiful shade, I have received so many compliments wearing this shade! The long flat oval applicator allows precision, I was able to apply the liquid lipstick on my lips with ease and no error!
The product is definitely long lasting, I had a really long day and the lipstick was still present after 12 hours (although I did eat fairly cautiously), the formula is lightweight with a very slight tackiness. I feel that the liquid lipstick is mildly drying after a couple of hours of wear - I would recommend a lip balm over the top, but do note that my lips are usually quite dry.
Skinny Latte as a shade is SPOT ON, however the formula may not be for everyone. It would be ideal if the formula was more moisturising to cater for us girls with drier lips. Nonetheless, I would continue to use this product.
MECCA MAX DOUBLE VISION EYE COLOUR in TUSCAN SUN $16
This eyeshadow did not appeal to me at all when I first saw it, especially since the shades are not something I would usually wear or reach for. The first time I used it was when I made the Mecca Max YouTube Video (at the end of the post). I didn't think I would like this eyeshadow so much!
The cream formula is lightweight, pigmented and easy to blend whilst the powder formula is smooth and also very pigmented. I like to layer the powder over the cream for a lasting effect. Wear time is approximately 6-7hrs, at the 8hr mark you will start to notice some creasing.
To be honest, this is probably one of my favourite products out of the lot.
MECCA MAX OH MY MATTE MATTIFYING PRIMER $20
I don't often use matte primers, mainly because my skin is a combination of dry, dehydrated while being slightly oily around the T-Zone. I used this primer mainly on my nose to keep it matte, it did a fantastic job at keeping the oils at bay, however I just couldn't make it sit well underneath my concealer or foundation, it also felt too drying for my already dehydrated skin.
The consistency of the primer is quite thick, almost balm like, it spreads relatively well but I just cannot make it work. It's impossible for me to like and love every product I try, but I did give it a solid go over the past few weeks and decided this is just not a product for me.
MECCA MAX SHIMMER SHOT ILLUMINATING WAND in PEARL $25
This is a
stunning cream highlighter dispensed via a clickable pen with a brush on end, I
was amazed by the glow it was able to create. The first time I used it
I accidentally applied the cream on top of powder, which is a big no-no
and created a whole lot of mess. I ensure to always use this cream highlighter
on bare skin, on top of foundation or other cream products. I have been
using this product directly from the tube and utilizing the brush to
spread the highlighter onto my cheekbones, however for general day time work wear,
I prefer to rub it onto the back of my hand, warm it up with my fingers
and tap it onto my cheekbones.
This
cream formula is lightweight and non-tacky. It's buildable and great for both
day and night. My tip is to be cautious when dispensing the highlighter, I
often double click and more products came out than expected. To intensify the highlighter further, I recommend going over with the highlighter from triple threat, you will be GLOWING.
MECCA MAX WINK INK LIQUID EYELINER $20
I
absolutely love this dual ended eyeliner. I like to use the flat end to line
most of my eyes and the fine tip to define the wings (as seen in my video). I
wore this liner for a good 12 hours and it did not smudge or flake, there was a
small amount of fading but the liner stayed put and in tack. The formula
is quite pigmented and fast drying. Very impressed for a $20 liquid liner, definitely a hot product!
MECCA MAX EYE MAX POWER COUPLE MASCARA $38
This is
my most anticipated product from Mecca Max's collection. I have never seen a
wand so small, allowing love for all the smaller and impossible to coat or
reach lashes. I have been using the larger wand for my upper lashes and the
smaller wand for my lower lashes. The formula is not waterproof, if you have
watery eyes, you may notice some smudges. Unfortunately this also means that
the formula is unable to maintain curls - my lashes are ridiculously straight
so it's not a big surprise for non-waterproof formulas.
The
smaller wand is really a life saver, I was able to create never before seen
lengthy lower lashes, the degree of lash separation was jaw dropping.
I
personally feel that the smaller wand makes this mascara, it's so good for
those with smaller lashes or those who want to accentuate lower lashes without
smearing mascara all over the place.
It would
be fantastic if Mecca is able to create a couple mascara with tubular formula,
as I find those formulas to hold curls, washes off easily and unable to be smudged.
12 HOURS LATER
VIDEO DEMO
The products featured were provided for editorial purposes
I don't often take my camera to events, mainly because I am clumsy and likely to break it, drop it or lose it. However, after my holiday, I felt relaxed and strangely more confident in handling technology/devices. I decided to pack my camera to Bobbi Brown Masterclass with Amy Conway.
The Masterclass took place in Myer Sydney, a beautiful set up with almonds and dark chocolate - Yes I ate most of it on my side of the table. We had the pleasure of meeting beautiful Amy who taught us tips and tricks on makeup application using Bobbi Brown products. Our products were carefully selected by Bobbi Brown Makeup Artists who provided us with one on one assistance in applications throughout the entire masterclass.
I was having the best time and decided to take my camera out for some happy snaps, after I pressed the "ON" button repeatedly I realised I didn't put the battery pack in.
*FACE PALM*
Despite my down moment, I thoroughly enjoyed the masterclass.
I love my pre-makeup skincare, the hero product that made my face feel amazing was Bobbi Brown's Extra Repair Nourishing Milk, light weight in formula, but perfect for my dry skin!! Bobbi's Hydrating Face Cream is also a product that is worth a mention and recommended for those with dry skin.
On weekdays, I tend to slack off on my morning skincare routine and would often find foundation clinging onto dry patches. My Bobbi Brown Makeup Artist, Amanda told me when my face is prepped properly with skincare, I will require less foundation and will not see any signs of dryness on my face throughout the day.
Even though my face is dry, I love powder, I already use Bobbi Brown's Sheer Pressed Powder on a daily basis so I wanted to try something different and selected the Nude Finish Illuminating powder. I fell in love instantly with the gorgeous mosaic patterns and the fact that the powder gave my face a hint of luminosity. Amanda applied makeup to half of my face and allowed me to get my hands dirty as I applied the products to the other half of my face.
Below is a photo of Amy and the fabulous Bobbi Brown makeup artists who shared their expertise with us at the Masterclass. Photo from Alphie's Instagram account (Bobbi Brown Head Makeup Artist) @BBPRO_ALPHIE
Photo Credit: @bbpro_Alphie
As soon as I got home, I took my camera out for a selfie, the photo below is not edited or filtered (it did take a few goes - you know how it's like with selfies... it's hard to find the perfect angle!) in order to accurately present the makeup that was applied on my face.
My Bobbi Brown Artist, Amanda was absolutely right, I did not see any signs of dryness on my face like I usually would. I subconsciously gravitate towards natural makeup looks, Alphie provided his magic touch and smoked my eye makeup out a smidge and I absolutely love it. With my hooded eyes, it's often difficult to see the eyeshadow so a smoked look is in my opinion, probably the best option. I think the look suits my cornrow braids (in case you are wondering what that's about, I went on a South Pacific cruise and had it braided in Vanuatu).
Many thanks to the Team at Bobbi Brown for inviting me to this brilliant experience!
*Lily not Louise attended this Masterclass as a guest of Bobbi Brown.
I have been extremely lucky to have attended Bobbi Brown's Wine and Chocolate Showcase, this gave me the opportunity to play around with some of Bobbi's newest products - let me tell you they are absolutely GORGEOUS.
My first encounter with Bobbi Brown was many years ago, I just started to wear makeup and decided to start collecting some high end products, after graduating from my bachelors, we went overseas and where else to shop than Hong Kong? I went a bit crazy thanks to the spectacular conversion rate.
I told the sales consultant that I was after a high end brand that is affordable and of quality, she recommended Bobbi Brown.
That moment sprouted my long term relationship with Bobbi Brown products and I haven't looked back since.
Ok I'll stop talking and let you guys go through some of the beautiful releases below, and in case you are wondering, we were fed wine chocolates at the event!
Anything in particular takes your fancy? I am blown away by the lipstick set above - a beauty lover's dream! However, I am forever a shimmer brick fan and will keep wearing it until I'm 100 because no one will take the shimmer out of my life.
*Lily not Louise attended this event as a guest of Bobbi Brown.
Initially, I was planning to call this post, "My Favourite Beauty Products of All Time".
That just reminded me of Kanye West telling the whole world how Beyonce has one of the best music videos of ALL TIME. It'll ring in your head like a hangover, so I decided to change the title to "All Star".
I guess this is a little more "high end", I do have a range of budget beauty products I love and adore, but I'm still trying to build my list, so I'll save that for another time.
I am a picky person and it takes a lot for me to re-purchase, so I don't have enough favourites to make monthly posts, but here's a handful of products I swear by/use religiously for the past year or five..
Dolly Wink Volume Mascara is a new-comer, I purchased this mascara out of curiosity while I was in Japan. It ended up being my favourite waterproof mascara. It will lengthen, thicken and curl. The wand is designed to reach smaller lashes. I will have a separate review up shortly.
Eye of Horus Eyeliner is incredible. I've tried too many eyeliners that smudged all over my hooded lids. When I received this from one of the beauty boxes, I was gobsmacked. Needless to say, the colour is gorgeous, the consistency is smooth and won't tug at your lids. Most importantly, it stayed put, no more smudging! I anticipate to try their mascara, I heard it's equally incredible. See my previous review here
Shiseido Eyelash Curler. I have been using this curler for the past 5 years and it had never failed me. It will reach most hard to reach lashes and dare I say, designed for short lashes and almond/hooded eyes. I'll have a post dedicated to battling out Shiseido VS Shu Uemura curlers in the upcoming weeks.
Shiseido Foundation Brush. I know, I know, there's a couple of Shiseido products in this post. I previously worked for Shiseido, however, this doesn't skew my view. There are good and bad products in each brand, I just happened to be lucky enough to test and try all their beauty products during my time there. I've tried a few brushes and have experienced a significant amount of fall outs, this brush is excellent in the sense that you will so nil to minimal fall out and it will work with pretty much all types of base. Cream, liquid, powder, BB creams... etc.. with the exception of mineral foundations, which I don't use too much because it gets too messy and I'm always in a hurry. You will receive an even spread with no brush marks.
Bobbi Brown Bronzer is something I discovered while I was in Hong Kong. My aim was to purchase as much Chanel, Dior and Guerlain products as my wallet can possibly allow... but I ended up getting Bobbi Brown products. This bronzer is perfect for my olive skin, my previous Bourjois bronzer made me look dirty. This is excellent for contour, cheeks and even as an eye shadow. See my detailed review here
I went to the Clinique counter for a free makeover and a foundation sample. I told the consultant about my pores and she gave me a generous sample of Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Foundation. I took it home, didn't have very high hopes about it and used it a week later. It worked really well with my skin and evened out my skin tone without clogging my pores. Apparently my pores will become less visible as I continue to use it.. I haven't got to that stage yet, but it's a great instant cover up.
The Giorgio Armani lipstick is another accidental encounter. I wanted to get a MAC lipstick, I stood around their counter for a good 10 minutes waiting for someone to help me and got ignored. Giorgio Armani just happened to be right next door, the consultant was brilliant and treated me like a decent human being. This product was purchased partially based on excellent customer service and partially based on quality and texture. Creamy, velvety with sleek packaging.. What more can a girl as for?
Korres Lip Butter reigned supreme within the blogosphere a couple of years back. I was in search for a lip product that was actually effective (Unfortunately, EOS did not work for my chapped lips). This is my go-to lip product, it is soft, creamy, sheer and treats my chapped lips well. Great for everyday wear if you want a light tint on your lips.
