Sensible Stylista

Unboxing Covergirl's Queen Voxbox

When Influenster reached out and offered to send me their latest parcel, I was thrilled because, as you all know, I love unboxing mystery packages!  I've been a part of their network for quite some time now, and through them, I've had the opportunity to test out a variety of products.  For today's post, I'll be reviewing three new products from Covergirl's Queen Collection. 
1.  Covergirl Natural Hue Liquid Makeup ($8.79) -  I hate to bash Covergirl, but I'm definitely not a fan.  I personally didn't have a very good experience!  The makeup didn't absorb well at all, and it went on super unevenly.  Heads up guys, you're getting very little coverage with this - it's basically a tinted moisturizer - so if you want full coverage, get a different foundation.  I tried Amber Glow, but it was way too red for me.  Hopefully y'all will have better luck!  I give this product 1.5/5.

2.  Covergirl Stay Luscious Lipstick ($8.99) - I feel very "eh" about this lipstick.  I had a chance to try Duchess, and although the lippie went on ok, the color just didn't work for me.  Props for its longevity though - it glided on smoothly and stayed put for most of the day.  I give this baby 2.5/5 because of the price!  I definitely think there are better and more affordable products out there for $9, but I'll have to check out the rest to know for sure.  I may totally be biased because of the shade!

3.  False Lash Drama Mascara ($7.49) - I'm kind of starting to feel bad at this point!  I really want to like this mascara...but I don't.  I had a hard time working the applicator, and at a certain point, my lashes started to clump.  Then, on top of it all, I couldn't get the right amount of curl.  I give this a 2/5, and that's me being generous!  It's available for $7 or so on the Covergirl website, but I'd rather save the cash and splurge on a solid mascara that works super well.  That's just me though! Let me know if you want a recommendation!

That's all folks! I'm sorry I was a negative nancy for today's post, but hey, I gotta keep it real.  I'm not going to tell you that something's awesome just because I had a chance to review it for free. However, I do want to thank Influencer for giving me the opportunity to try these items out...even if I didn't like them, ha!

May Beauty Review

1.  It Cosmetics Sunshine in a Compact ($34) - Another home run from ITC.  Developed with leading plastic surgeons, this talc-free matte bronzer adds radiance without glitter or shimmer.  This product is, hands down, my new favorite.  Stila's Sun Bronzing Powder used to be my go-to, but I've officially converted.  Apply it with an angled contour brush for best results!  You'll get a beautiful but subtle glow.

2.  Studio Gear True Whipped Gloss Stain ($17 each) - Thanks to Brandbacker, I got to sample all 5 of these lovely lippies.  Each one is formulated to be perfectly balanced and suited for all skin tones to keep lips soft and moisturized.  Although I really liked the colors - true burgundy and true red were my favorites - I wasn't a huge fan of the applicator. I found it quite difficult to color in my lips, and since the shade's fairly matte, it's not easy to correct!  However, you do get stay-all-day pigment so that's a plus.  In my honest opinion, there are better and more affordable glosses out there, but they're worth a try if you're looking to experiment.

3.  Hask Purifying Shampoo + Conditioner ($5.99) - last month, I reviewed their Strengthening line HERE along with other April faves.  I'm happy to feature them yet again on SS because their Purifying Charcoal line is on point.  Charcoal, derived from coconut shells, combined with lemon and grapefruit oils, thoroughly cleanses and clarifies while helping to eliminate impurities from one's hair and scalp.  I like to use this 1-2 times a week to keep my hair extra clean - it's gentle enough for daily use though.  If you have oily hair, this set is a serious must-try.  Oh, and on top of it all, they smell like heaven so what are you waiting for?  Try this duo out STAT!  Products were provided for review through Brandbacker.

4.  Maybelline Browdrama Pomade Crayon ($9.99) - Obsessed with this crayon for reals - available in four different shades here.  Get killer brows in literally one sweep - it sculpts and tames as it colors, and shades are totally blendable.  I can't live without soft brown!  I use it with my L'oreal brow stylist prep & shape pro kit for best results.

5.  Maybelline FaceStudio Master Concealer ($8.99) - You're getting serious bang for your buck with this product!  It works extremely well, and as you can see, it's quite affordable.  I use "light," but it's available in 4 other shades here. I apply dabs of it to cover pimples, lighten my undereye area and use it to contour when I'm feeling extra fancy!  

6.  Becca Luminous Blush ($34) - Becca's new blush line is everything and more.  Each shade is beyond gorgeous, and it's specially designed to flatter all skin tones.  These multi-dimensional products can be worn alone or layered with matte blushes/bronzers as a blush topper.  Available in 6 gorgeous shades, you can purchase them online at Ulta here - my fave shades are Tigerlily and Blushed Copper!

Wardrobe Essential: Off-the-Shoulder Tops

I'm beyond obsessed with my new off-the-shoulder top courtesy of Marled.  For those of you unfamiliar with the brand, they were founded in 2015 by Reunited Clothing in response to a void in the market for affordable of-the-moment designs.  From cashmere, to embellishments & embroidery, their clothing is crafted using carefully selected materials to ensure the highest quality possible.
For my latest OOTD, I styled a casual look for you guys.  I centered today's ensemble around my new top and paired it with skinny jeans for a simple yet polished look!  I then carried my Givenchy Antigona for a pop of color and threw on heels to match.
Bag:  Givenchy || Top:  c/o Marled || Jeans:  Levi's || Shoes:  AMICLUBWEAR