Trend Trunk Mystery Gift Card Giveaway


For all my Canadian fashionistas! Do you remember the post I did on Trend Trunk at the beginning of December? I was introduced by Sean Snyder, the founder of Trend Trunk himself, to a new alternative in selling pre-owned jewellery, bags, or even beauty products! Click here to read the full post and learn a little more about Trend Trunk.

To summarize, Trend Trunk combines eBay, Kijiji, and consigning to allow for simple nation-wide buying and selling. It is easy to set up an account and post items for sale, and the fees are quite reasonable. Trend Trunk only charges a 20% commission whereas consignment shops can run anywhere from 40%-60%. Once your item is sold, Trend Trunk provides you with a pre-paid shipping label (which is initially added onto the cost of your item, so a flat rate of $8 is paid by the seller) and all you have to do is drop the package off at your nearest Canada Post! I think that Trend Trunk is a convenient service because there are no surprise/hidden fees, and the profit you will receive is shown to you at the start, right before you post the item for sale. The only inconvenience, is that they do not currently allow you to pay or receive money using PayPal. To receive your payment, you will need to do a direct deposit. However, I have been told that PayPal is coming soon *crosses fingers*.

MYSTERY GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY

Thanks to the lovely people behind Trend Trunk, we were able to collaborate on a giveaway for my readers! Sign up for a free Trend Trunk membership by clicking the photo below and you will receive a gift card with a minimum of $5, that could be worth up to $250! This gift card is not redeemable for cash and will only be used towards your first purchase on Trend Trunk.

 If you do not already follow me, I'd appreciate a follow via BlogLovin or GFC (even Twitter!) before signing up! :)

Note: Gift card will expire 4 months after sign up. One card per email address. Canadian Residents only.

Mystery Gift Card Giveaway: https://www.trendtrunk.com/mystery/a-lovely-allure
& Check Out and Shop my Closet: https://www.trendtrunk.com/ALovelyAllure

Dr. Bronner's Magic Soap Review

dr bronner's magic soap peppermint bar almond liquid review
dr bronners all in one castile soap peppermint almond review

I've heard so many rave reviews about this soap, and I finally took the plunge and ordered it off Well.ca! For those of you who don't know, Dr. Bronner's Magic Soap has many purposes, 18 to be exact. But how many of those are realistic?

18 Uses For Dr. Bronner's Magic Soap:
"washing your face, body, hands and hair, for bathing, shaving, brushing your teeth, rinsing fruit, aromatherapy, washing dishes by hand, doing laundry, mopping floors, all-purpose cleaning, washing windows, scrubbing toilets, washing dogs, controlling dust mites, and killing ants and aphids"
- Made with organic oils, no detergents, and a vegan product.

So only a few of them sound a bit ridiculous. But realistically, we all know you want it for one reason- brush cleaning. Does it live up to it's reputation? Yes!

My brushes have been the cleanest they've ever been since I've begun using this magic soap. It was very easy to clean my eye and powder brushes, but when it came to liquid foundation brushes, I had to redo them a few times because of all the buildup my previous brush cleaner failed to remove. But the result was worth it, I have never seen my brushes close enough to white since the day I purchased them. I was impressed with how well, and quickly Dr. Bronners cleaned my brushes. You do not have to use a lot of product to get a good lather. I bought the bar soap for cleaning my Beauty Blenders (which also works great and saved me a ton of money), although I do use it for brushes too. The brushes feel a little too squeaky clean after washing but are back to normal and soft when dry. I also would like to mention that if you notice your brush has hardened when dry, it is because you haven't washed out all the soap. I'd suggest just giving it another rinse and squeeze!

I've also used this as a face wash to remove makeup. I was surprised to see that it did not break me out and took off my makeup very easily, without being drying. As for the scents, I have here peppermint and almond! They are lovely and smell quite accurate, however, don't expect them to smell once you have washed the soap away. The scent will not linger on the brushes, unfortunately.

The bar was $5.49 for 5oz and the bottle of liquid soap was $13 for 472ml/16oz which is more than reasonable when compared to the price of other brush cleaners, and in my opinion, does a better job. I'd definitely recommend this soap to those of you who are unhappy with their brush cleaner, or want an affordable, natural, alternative!

Empties #4: January 2014

I've finally finished up enough products to justify for an empties post! I haven't done an empties post in a long long time.. to be specific, since June. I'm going to begin to number these posts as I've seen a ton of other bloggers do because it is not making sense for me to try and do them monthly anymore. So with that being said, here are a bunch of empties!

empties 4 january 2014

Swisspers Organic Cotton Rounds: Picked these up for $2 at Walmart and I use them to remove my eye makeup. They work fine, I have no complaints, especially for the price!
Purchase: Yes 

Neutrogena All-in-One Make-up Removing Cleansing Wipes: Can't even remember how well/bad these worked, but I didn't re-purchase after this sample. I may try them again someday.
Purchase: Not for now 

Shu Uemura Anti-Oxi Cleansing Oil: I wouldn't repurchase because this cleanser is very pricey and didn't do anything much differently than other cleansing oils.
Purchase: No 

Sisley Gentle Make-up Remover (Face & Eyes): This removed my facial makeup well, but could only begin to remove the eyeshadow on my eyes. Would re-purchase if it was affordable.
Purchase: No, too expensive 

Aveeno Ultra-Calming Makeup Removing Wipes: Love these wipes, they aren't the softest but they do the job, are moist, and do not break me out. It does however, give my face a warm feeling after I've used it. I've repurchased already, but hope to find something more gentle in the future.
Purchase: Yes 

LA Fresh Travel-lite Makeup Remover Wipe: I'm not a fan of these wipes due to the fact that they have mineral oil as the second ingredient.
Purchase: No 

Yves Rocher Pur Bleuet Express Eye Makeup Remover: I've been using this oil-based eye makeup remover daily my entire life. It works quick to remove my mascara and instantly removes my eyeshadow.
Purchase: Yes 

Pure + Simple Sensitive Skin Face Wash: Reviewed this before and I loved it. Pure + Simple is a natural based company, and this removed my makeup without breaking me out. However, now that I've moved onto other skincare products, my face is doing better and I don't feel the need to repurchase this as it is an expensive facial wash that doesn't have skin-beneficial results.
Purchase: No 

empties 4 january 2014

Garnier Skin Renew Dark Spot Treatment Mask: I didn't have enough of these to notice a difference, so I think I will pick up a full box to actually put them to the test.
Purchase: Yes, to further test them out 

Montagne Jeunesse Masks: Love how affordable these masks are! I wish I could find the Red Earth Clay Mask as it was my favourite, but I find the Dead Sea Mud Mask to do a great job of deep-cleaning my pores.
Purchase: Yes 

Kiehl's Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Masque: I was quite satisfied with the results of this mask sample, and I also find it fun to apply because it is not a boring sheet mask. Although, Kiehl's has been sold out of this full-size for months, and I hope to see it in stock soon.
Purchase: Yes 

empties 4 january 2014

Vichy Aqualia Thermal Rich: This is a thick, hydrating, facial cream and I haven't seen it clogging my pores or breaking me out. I actually purchased the full-size in 'Light' because I found it easier to wear in the daytime under makeup.
Purchase: Yes 

Thursday Plantation Tea Tree Oil: This was way too strong for my skin, even when deluded with the right amount of water. I don't think it actually helped my acne, as my skin has been fine, probably better, since I stopped using this.
Purchase: No 

bareMinerals Prime Time Foundation Primer: I hated this primer, it smelt plasticky and like silicone, and there were no skin benefits.
Purchase: No 

Algenist Pore Corrector Anti-Aging Primer: I didn't have enough of this to determine whether I really would like to use it or not, however, it does claim to have many skin benefits!

Smashbox Photo Finish Hydrating Primer: I enjoyed trying out this primer, and I like that it is water based and doesn't smell silicone-y. It felt cool on the skin, however, I'd like to try out a few more samples before purchasing.

Fresh Umbrian Clay Mattifying Serum: I don't remember liking this, and I don't remember it doing anything beneficial to my skin. In fact, I didn't even finish the sample.
Purchase: No 

Nivea Mattifying Day Care: Light, but not sure if it was hydrating enough. Not enough product to determine whether I'd purchase, but didn't seem like anything special.

empties 4 january 2014

To be honest, I cannot usually determine whether or not I like a shampoo after using a packet sample, not to mention I used these so long ago... but I can say that I didn't go out and buy any of these products afterwards. I did like the Redken Color Extend, but wasn't sure if it was really working. I had higher hopes for the Matrix Keratindose and Bumble and Bumble, and was ultimately a little dissapointed with them. And the Vidal Sassoon seemed like a typical shampoo to me. 

empties 4 january 2014

Bare Escentuals Full Flawless Face Brush (x2): These brushes were so scratchy and too rough for me. I held onto them for so long but realized it's time to throw them out since they aren't doing me any good sitting there. I did use them a lot for mineral foundation in the past but realize there are much softer brushes out there.
Purchase: No 

Bare Escentuals Max Coverage Concealer Brush: I tried to clean this brush with a product that was mainly composed of mineral oil, and I feel like I completely ruined the brush! It is nearing the end of it's life anyway from being used so often. 
Purchase: No 

Quo Crease Blender Brush: This brush is too scratchy and rough for my delicate eyes. It was one of my first ever brushes, and it's time for it to retire!
Purchase: No 

empties 4 january 2014

Maybelline Rocket Volum' Waterproof Mascara: At first I was iffy about it, but I learnt how to apply it correctly on myself and have been happy with the results! I now use this daily and have repurchased already.
Purchase: Yes 

Palty Eyebrow Tint/Mascara: Lightened my eyebrows nicely, and I wanted to repurchase but couldn't find it anywhere! Although, there are a ton of asian brands that carry a similar product.
Purchase: Yes, but it might be discontinued! I cannot find it anywhere 

empties 4 january 2014

Softsoap Body Butter Heavenly Vanilla Hydrating Wash: I remember this body wash making me quite itchy. I think it was a bit drying for me so I won't repurchase.
Purchase: No 

Tree Hut Shea Sugar Body Scrub in Coconut Lime: This scrub smells amazing, and I love that the beads are sugar and therefore are harmless when washed down the drain. It is gentle and fun to use.
Purchase: Yes 

LA Fresh Instant Body Smoother: I really don't know what the purpose of this is, and I don't think I felt the cooling sensation or relaxing aromas. It would be cool if this was an anti-bacterial or body cleansing wipe instead.
Purchase: Yes 

Bath & Body Works Anti-Bacterial Sanitizer: I carry at least one of these with me 24/7. I will never...stop...using them.. *evil laugh*
Purchase: Yes 

Caudalie Fleur De Vigne Shower Gel: Smelt like fresh plants, I really didn't like the scent. I couldn't even use it anymore. I don't like that it doesn't lather.
Purchase: No 

Life Anti-Bacterial Wet Wipes: Great to have for cleaning or using on yourself when you need a bit of freshening up.
Purchase: Yes 

Summer's Eve Deodorant Spray: I do tend to get a bit sweaty down there and this works great to control and mask any odour!
Purchase: Yes 

Lady Speed Stick StainGuard: I don't find this to prevent stains on black clothing any better than my regular deodorants do. In fact, I actually like this deodorant the least. Am glad I have finished it but I unfortunately still have one more to go.
Purchase: No 

[Closed] People's Choice Awards: Red Carpet Glam Giveaway


Did you watch the People's Choice Awards last night? The first awards show of the season, and the only awards show that is solely voted on by the public. During the Red Carpet Pre-Show, I took to Twitter and found out some of your favourite red carpet hair, makeup looks, and outfits of the night!

P&G has actually given me the chance to give away a #RedCarpetGlam Beauty Box to one of my followers!

What's in the Red Carpet Glam Beauty Box:
  • Repair Heat & Protect Shine Spray 
  • Olay Fresh Effects Satin Finish Lotion 
  • Olay Regenerist Microsculpting Cream 
  • COVERGIRL Clean Glow Bronzer in Spices 
  • Gillette Venus Embrace Sensitive 
  • COVERGIRL Lip Perfection Lip Liner in Passion 
  • COVERGIRL LipPerfection in Hot 
  • Crest 3D White Whitestrips Advance Seal 1-Hour Express (1 sachet)
  • Vidal Sassoon’s Flexible Hold Hairspray
  • Vidal Sassoon Repair Heat & Protect Shine Spray
  • Aldo Accessories gift card

The giveaway has already started, and all you have to do is tweet me @michellelouie your favourite red carpet trends of last night! You can tell me your favourite hair, makeup looks, and/or outfit! Don't forget to hashtag #RedCarpetGlam and #BeautyUnited (if you have space in your tweet!). Originally I was going to end the giveaway today, but I will keep it on for a few more days to give those of you who weren't able to tweet that night!

Note: You will know when I have acknowledged your tweet and entered you into the giveaway once I have either replied to or favourited it! Good Luck!

Open to Canadian residents only.

WINNER!
(Determined via Random.org): @yankee_girl2 

Disclosure: I am a #BeautyUnited blogger. As part of my affiliation with this group I receive products and special access to P&G events. The opinions on this blog are my own.

13 Beauty Favourites of 2013

13 beauty favourites of 2013

Happy 2014 Lovelies! I hope everyone had an eventful New Years celebration, or at least enjoyed themselves! I thought a post of my 2013 favourites would be suitable, now that the year is over. Although my year was not the greatest, it was certainly not the worst! I gained a bit more confidence, and have learnt so much more about myself. Once I find something I like, I tend to stick with it (afraid of change, much?), and that is why it was so easy to create a 2013 Top Beauty Favourites post. I simply looked at what I have been using daily and decided those products would be best fit as my 2013 Favourites! These are not in any particular order, I just tried to group similar products together :)

Skincare:
beauty favorites of 2013

1)  Vichy Idealia Life Serum:* I'm absolutely in love with this expensive serum, which I use regularly as a primer. It doesn't break me out, or negatively affect my skin in any way. My face looks brighter, illuminated, and smoother when I apply this before foundation. I was shocked when my friends even noticed a difference in my skin. If you're having primer issues, you definitely need to try this! I'd say to try your nearest Shoppers or Vichy distributor for a sample tube, so you can test it out before forking over your cash!

2)  Vichy Aqualia Thermal 48-hr Hydration for Sensitive Skin: For the past 2 months I've been using sample tubes of this facial cream in both Light and Rich, and it has really helped hydrate and reduce dryness on my skin for the winter months. Light is perfect for daytime use, and will probably still be suitable during the warmer months.

Face:
best of 2013 beauty favourites

3)  CoverGirl Clean Glow Bronzer in Spices:* I originally thought this would be too dark for my skintone, but it actually applies very lightly but has the ability to be built up. I'd say it's more for pink skintones, but it still gives me a natural glow all over when applied carefully!

4) Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer in Neutralizer: After having so many ups and downs with this product, I have come to terms with it. There must be a reason it's almost done, right? It covers my dark circles well when applied correctly, and although does not perfectly match my skin, it does brighten up my eyes.

5) Revlon Colorstay Foundation in Buff: A great affordable drugstore foundation, (I suggest picking it up at Walmart, if you can find it in stock) that covers my blemishes and matches my skintone almost perfectly. I've tried both the Combination/Oily and Normal/Dry, and I found the Combination/Oily to cover better, and was much thicker. I do love this for everyday use, but I know there is a better foundation out there for dry/oily skinned girls like me! I just need to... give in and splurge on one!

Brushes:
13 best beauty products of 2013

6) Sigma E25 Blending Brush: This brush is amazing for blending out any sharp lines, the crease, or mistakes during eyeshadow application. It's the softest blending brush I've used, while being very effective.

Real Techniques Multi-Task Brush: I may have cheated and counted these 2 brushes as one..hehe, but I can't forget to mention this well loved brush! I've used it everyday since I found it in a set at Walmart! It's great for adding colour to my face, and creating a softer contour.

7) Beauty Blender: After all the hype, I bought a $7 fake beauty blender from Winners. It wasn't soft, didn't expand when wet, and absorbed all my product! At IMATS, I gave in and picked up 2 real beauty blenders. I've never been happier and have used it for foundation every day, ever since. It really minimizes the noticeable flakiness I would get when using a brush, and makes my skin look that much closer to flawless.

Eyes:
top beauty picks of 2013

8) Maybelline EyeStudio Gel Eyeliner: This gel liner glides on so smoothly, and doesn't muck up and dry out my brushes, so I can use the same brush more than once (shh). It lasts long and the brown is suitable for everyday wear, when black might be a bit too dramatic.

9) Maybelline Rocket Volum Waterproof Mascara: This mascara holds my curl all day and night long, and when applied correctly it gives me great volume and really darkens my eyes.

10) Yves Rocher Pur Bleuet Express Eye Makeup Remover: I don't know how many bottles of this eye makeup remover I've gone through! I've used this makeup remover since entering high school! It removes my eye makeup quicker than other oil based removers I've tried, and all I have to really do is hold the cotton pad to my eye.

11) Maybelline Define-A-Brow: These brow pencils have been correcting my brows for months! You don't have to worry about drawing your brows on too dark, as the pencil has very light colour payoff. This is a good thing for me, because I tend to have a heavy hand when doing my brows, so this helps me stay in control.

Hair & Fragrance:

12) Batiste Original Dry Shampoo:* The best dry shampoo I've tried so far. At first, I hated it, but realized I wasn't using enough product. To really reduce greasiness, you need to use more than you probably expected. It sprays out white powder and it is a b**** to rub out but once you do, your hair looks like it's been washed yesterday! You won't get that 'omg, your hair looks so clean', but it is close enough for a dry shampoo and great for emergencies.

13) Rihanna Rebelle Perfume: This is a unique, musky vanilla scent to it that most people might not favour. But I like how different it is from typical perfumes, it is light and sultry, not florally, but still professional, and doesn't kill your nose!

Items marked with an asterisk (*) were received by PR for consideration. This in no way affects the fact that the product are apart of my 2013 favourites :)

What are your 2013 favourites?