NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil

We have written before about how we've always wanted to be a lipstick girl, despite the challenges of upkeep and finding the perfect color. Recently inspired by one of our favorite fashion trend-setters - Taylor Swift - and her gorgeous,bright, red lip, we ventured back to the make-up counter for another round of lipstick roulette.                             

In the past we've consistently defaulted to the easy shades of pale pinks and nudes; those colors that don't really look much like Lipstick to begin with.  In an emboldened mood though, we decided we wanted a Statement Lip, the kind of shade that could be the *one* thing thrown on before leaving the house and still making you look and feel like you are completely pulled together, ready to tackle the day.  

After multiple samples and many "close but not quite" contenders, Cruella has become our  own personal ultimate choice of color and we could not love it more.  Whenever a red lip mood strikes us now, we've got our go-to. Beyond finding a shade we adore, we have also fallen head over heels for Nars's Velvet Matte Lip Pencil - in every color.

Soft enough to go on with ease unlike other, harder lip pencils, the beauty of this product is its amazing staying power.  So long as you don't add balm or gloss and apply directly to your naked (exfoliated!) lips, your shade will last and last and last - through meals, sips of coffee or wine or water, yoga class, and...maybe even an end of a date goodnight kiss or two.  

Plus, we can't exactly argue with the random stranger who approaches us one day at the farmer's market curious to know what brand of lipstick we are wearing...Statement Lip, indeed.

Average Price: $26

Rating: 5 out of 5!

Living Luminizer

Earlier this spring one of our favorite blogs, did a feature that was right up our alley.  We are a lover of all things J.Crew; have been for years.  You can imagine our delight at getting a quick sneak peek backstage at a J.Crew fashion show - particularly if we were going to be told makeup tricks to boot.  (Seriously, how does J.Crew manage to pull off that effortless I woke up like this look with each and every one of their models?)

One of the products recommended - and apparently used quite frequently among the J.Crew makeup team is the Living Luminizer from RMS Beauty.  Tempted, we decided to give it a go.  TOTAL GAME CHANGER, dear readers.  It's pricey, we know, but you use so little of this stuff every day that the pot is going to last for forever.  Each morning we spread the tiniest of tabs on the tip of our cheekbones, sweeping gently upward in a crescent moon shape and voila! an instant, easy, natural, and healthy looking glow.  Purchase justified.

Now, if only we could say the same thing about every single item in the J.Crew catalogue when it arrives each month...

Average price: $38

Rating: 5 out of 5!   

L'Oreal Professional Mythic Oil

Earlier this year, during what has been a ridiculously long and brutal winter in the Northeast, we slipped away for a weekend down south to visit our mother.  One afternoon, while sitting at the kitchen table with Mom, she remarked that our hair looked dry.

"It is!" we moaned before going on to complain about the harsh toll winter takes on both our skin and our hair.  Pink Mixer Mom nodded knowingly.  "Remind me tomorrow morning after you take a shower to show you something for your hair.  I think you'll like it."

L'Oreal Professional Mythic Oil, very appropriately named we must admit, was the magic (mythical!) potion produced for a test run thanks to Pink Mixer Mom the following day.  We ran the tiniest dab of it through our hair, then applied another dab focusing on the very ends of our locks - certainly the driest bits of our hair - and the first spot split ends always appear.

This product is a dream for our winter worn and brittle hair.  It likely won't work as well in the summer, but that's the season of pony tails anyhow.  These months the tiniest dab works wonders - we can't get over how much healthier our hair feels now that we are using the product on a regular basis.  Because of course, after the test run at Mom's house, we had to buy our own bottle. 

Guess this proves yet again that moms really do know everything.

Rating: 5 out of 5!

Prices: vary depending; about $20

Hunter Packable Tour Rain Boots

We owned our beloved navy blue Hunter wellies for almost six years.  We wore them almost every day for six months out of the year and never had a complaint.  They kept us warm, they worked with our skirts and dresses and leggings and jeans, forever looking classically stylish, and - most importantly - they kept our ten little piggies dry no matter the rain, hail, sleet, or snow thrown our way.

Eventually all good things must come to an end though and earlier this winter we started to noticed a few tiny hairline cracks in the rubber.  And our feet were a little damp by the time we'd walk home in the rain or sleet.  We continued to make do because, yes, Hunters are expensive, but we knew the love affair - with this particular pair of boots at least - would be fading sooner rather than later.  

And so, back to the Hunter website we went to explore our options. Amazing, the colors and styles this classic company had started to turn out in the past few years.  We knew we wanted classic and tall, that part was easy.  Then our eyes landed on a single word that utterly intrigued us.  Packable.

Our interest peaked, we started to investigate the Original Packable Tour Rain Boots.  They were the same price as the Original Boots, same look, style, and color options as well.  BUT - they folded at the ankle? So you could actually pack them in, say, a suitcase or a gym bag or a schlep into work carry-all? Eureka!

While still apprehensive that the quality might be sub-par after what we'd come to know and love with our original pair we decided, ultimately, to just throw caution to the wind and give this packable idea a chance.  Order made.  

Our boots (dark green this time) arrived last week.  And reader, we have never once looked back.  They are so light!  So comfortable!  So easy to stroll, strut, and speed walk in!  We never, ever thought anything else would come between our love for our original wellies, but this packable option has, thus far, been able to do exactly that.  It's like the geniuses behind Hunter were able to take their already great and reliable product and make. it. better.  

That's just like those lovely old Brits, isn't it?

Average Price: $148

Rating 5 out of 5!

HUE Sweater Tights

It seems every December, we start thinking about what constitutes a good pair of leggings or a reliable pair of tights.  Last year, after our post about fleece-lined leggings, a friend reached out suggesting we try the brand HUE for quality leggings.  This recommendation was what we had in mind when, earlier in the fall, we discovered a sale on HUE's sweater tights at DSW.  Over the years we have learned that not all sweater tights are created equal -- they can hang weird in the crotch area, or twist awkwardly around the knees. Many a pair - including reputable brands like JCrew and Vera Wang have been donated to Goodwill after just one wear, so disappointed were we with their fit.

As one might guess, due to the aforementioned issues, we approached the HUE sweater tights with caution.  Still, hope springs eternal and for $11 we figured we could afford to give them a shot.  Turns out, these are the best pair of sweater tights we have ever owned.  Surprise!  Surprise!  It could be that they managed to get the cotton/polyester/spandex blend just right or it could be that HUE just really knows what they're doing when it comes to tights but from the moment we tried them on the very chilly morning of late fall we have been nothing but immensely pleased.  They don't pill, they hold their shape throughout the day (and on back to back wears without a laundry day in between).  They're not itchy.  They stretch where they need to stretch and move where they need to move. As hesitant as we initial were, we're clearly big fans.  And an extra added bonus? They're toasty warm.  It's a Christmas miracle!

Average Price: $11-$16

Rating: 5 out of 5!    

Living Proof Perfect Hair Day 5-in-1 Styling Treatment

We know.  From the minute we heard Jennifer Aniston was a co-owner of the hair product line Living Proof we were skeptics too.  Found only at makeup/beauty supply stores like Sephora and Ulta, we found we were never really compelled to seek out the line of shampoos, conditioners, and styling products.  Last month, however, while in Sephora stocking up on another unrelated product, curiosity finally got the best of us and we decided to pick up a bottle of the Perfect Hair Day 5-in-1 Styling Treatment. 

$26 is a bit more than we'll usually allow ourselves to splurge on a trial product, but given the promise of a perfect. hair. day. we couldn't really resist. 

Turns out?  Within a handful of weeks, we've become mildly obsessed with this PhD product - and maybe even the entire Living Proof hair line.

One of the things we like the most about the 5-in-1 styling treatment is exactly that -- we get five hair related promises (volumizing, smoothing, conditioning, strengthening, and polishing) in one easy step.  You apply a tiny dime sized amount of the product to damp hair and then style as usual.  From the first morning we used said product we noticed an immediate difference in our fine hair, as it was easier to style, manage, and tame. Initially, we wondered if we were experiencing the placebo effect given our love for all new things beauty product related, but even weeks after that first use, our hair seems shiner, healthier, and just in a better place style-wise whenever we use it.  Color us converted.

An extra five bonus points are awarded for the fact that the PhD formula is sulfate, paraben, and phthalate free.  (Though we did take away one point for the container/bottle design.  The look of it is sleek and sexy, no question, but it can be hard to manage just how much product comes out of the bottle.  Given that one only needs the tiniest amount each morning AND the fact that the styling cream isn't exactly cheap, this seems like it could have been better designed.)  (Don't worry.  We'll tell Jennifer this, should we ever rub elbows.)

Perfect hair days elude all of us at one point or another, let's be honest.  Looks like Living Proof has finally managed to find a way to make them a bit more attainable, thank heavens.  Dare we aim for 365 perfect hair days a year?

Average Price: $26/4 oz.

Rating: 5 out of 5!         

Sanuk Women's Yoga Mat Sandals

Every year we wear flip-flops for as long as humanely possible.  Our feet like to feel that air, our toes like to be free, our toenails love to show off a fresh coat of shiny polish.  It's because of this mentality that we like to think we know a thing or two about the many, many brands of flip-flops available to the average consumer.  Still, when a friend flew in to town to visit us a few weeks ago, and arrived sporting a pair of sandals made out of actual yoga mat material we were rather floored.
And of course, immediately asked to try them on ourselves.

Sanuk's Women's Yoga Mat Sandals offer just the sort of cushion and comfort our feet crave during the day.  They're meant to shape and conform to your actual foot and they come in a wide variety of cute, bright colors.  Plus they're only $30.  You probably shouldn't skip yoga class entirely when you're wearing these, but if you must, at least your feet will still feel like they've spent a few hours in down-ward dog and child's pose.  And sometimes, that's all a girl can ask for.

Average Price: $30

Average Rating: 4 out of 5   

Television Series: Downton Abbey

We're often more hung up on products rather than television 'round here at The Pink Mixer. However, we recently stumbled upon such a delightful gem of a TV show that it would be a crime not to write about it here.

Downton Abbey, is a British television drama, set in Yorkshire, England. The series opens in 1912, and we follow the drama of both high and low society throughout the era leading up to WWI.

We can't often promise much, but we absolutely swear, that after the very first fifty minute episode, you will be hooked on this series. The concept of the show is so very interesting and if you have even an inkling of being a bibliophile? Well, forget about it. You won't want to get up from the couch until you've devoured every minute of season 1's seven episodes. Good thing too - because the countdown is on for January 8th, when the highly anticipated season 2 begins!

Laura Mercier's Caviar Stick Eye Colour

We can be a tad skeptical about pricier makeup here at The Pink Mixer. We usually wonder if that steeper price tag is really worthwhile or if, in the end, we're just paying extra for the name and department store experience. While we can't speak for all upscale makeup, we've found we can make a pretty solid case for justifying the purchase of Laura Mercier's Caviar Stick Eye Colour. After a month or so of using this product we've found you actually end up getting a whole lot of color (er, bang) for your buck.

Not being a fan of the time it can usually take to apply a lot of dramatic makeup, we fell in love with the Caviar Stick the minute we realized it cut our smokey eye prep time in half. The application can take a little getting used to - we've found it's easiest to apply the color stick right to the eyelids versus using a make-up brush...but once you make it over that learning cover you'll most likely fall in love with this little tool as fast as we did.

Seven color options in all, we're using the "jungle" color right now and love the subtle change the green can make in our everyday look. Plus (and this is probably thanks to that higher price tag) this stuff goes on and stays on all day long without the need for a touch-up. Which is something our time-crunched selves are more than happy to bat our eyes at.

Average Price: $24/stick
Rating: 4 out of 5

Platypus File -- Art+Craft+Design

About a month ago, we were wandering around a downtown outdoor market in Tallahassee, Florida one humid Saturday afternoon. Tucked in between the photography stands and farmer's market tables was a hidden gem of a boutique, Platypus File.

Filled with eccentric, charming, and whimsical pieces the woman behind Platypus File seems to have created something for just about everyone. Between the earrings, hairclips, rings, and adorable bird pillows we had trouble picking out just one item to take home. Luckily, her prices were reasonable enough that we didn't have to settle. In the end, we left with two one of a kind cocktail rings, as well as a quaint pair of delicate earrings.

Along with her etsy shop, Platypus File's line can be found at indivudual shops up and down the Eastern Seaboard. Check out her website and shop listings for where to find her. And, as always, happy colorful, adorable shopping!

Average price: depends on item(s)

Rating: 5 out of 5!

Lands End Canvas

Pop quiz, shopper. What do you think of when someone mentions Lands' End? Practical, basic, standard,...err...bland, boring...
Used to be, if your answer involved any of the above adjectives you were right.

Seemingly overnight though, there's been a major shift over at dear old Lands' End. Last summer I found myself wandering through a local Sears (where Lands End apparel is sold - who knew?) and before I knew it, my arms were loaded up with cute, flattering, affordable tops, skirts, and sweaters to try on in the dressing room. And don't even get me started on how much I adore their handbags.

While that transformation seemed all well and good and much needed, it was this past Fall when I discovered the newest, greatest gem in the world of Lands' End. And that gem, dear readers, is Lands End Canvas. (Which they say started in 1963. How I only discovered them in 2010 is a marketing mystery, but whatever. Let's get back to the clothes!) So if Lands' End is the woman who finally got around to getting the hip haircut and treating herself to a few new flattering trends, Lands' End Canvas is the fashionable friend who has known all along where some of the best kept secrets are hidden.

Lands End Canvas has a Jcrew look and feel, without the Jcrew look and feel of skyrocketing prices. Keep your eyes peeled for sales and free shipping codes and their items are downright reasonable. Our favorite part though? With our first order we got a hand written thank you note from a member of their team. And as everyone knows by now, The Pink Mixer is a sucker for cute style combined with a good old-fashioned letter. Swoon.

Average Price: all depends on what you buy...
Rating 5 out of 5!

TOMS Shoes

It's hard to believe The Pink Mixer has vanished for over a month. What can we say? We've been busy. Busy walking, among other things in our brand new TOMS shoes. We'd had our eyes on a pair for several months and finally gave in as a special spring treat. We knew we liked the look and casual style of these shoes but we were a tiny bit worried about how comfortable they'd actually be.

Um.

We fretted over nothing.

These shoes are, without a doubt, some of the most comfortable, low-maintenance, throw on in a second shoes we have ever owned. It would not be an exaggeration to say we fell in love instantly. Which, by all accounts - comfort, style, and good will - is a good thing. How can you NOT get behind a company that promises One for One? With every pair of TOMS shoes purchased, another pair goes to a child indeed.

Which means we've already helped one child get a new pair of shoes. And something tells us it won't be long until we're ready to help another...

Average Price: $50/pair
Rating: 5 out of 5

Agnes Magnolia

Seeing as we know two of the artists working behind the scenes here we might be a tad bit biased. Still, that isn't going to stop us from telling you about our new favorite shop on Etsy - Agnes Magnolia.

Founded by three friends, artists, and teachers living and working on the North Shore of Massachusetts, they sell products all hand crafted, hand screen printed and/or sewn in their own studio. These women work to use quality materials and utilize organic fabrics and clothing whenever possible.

Their current line is inspired by their surroundings on the coastal North Shore of Massachusetts. After seeing many of their products in person this past weekend, I can attest to the fact that the t-shirts are some of the softest I've ever felt, their pillows are charming, and I'm a little bit in love with their tea towels, onesies, and tote bags. Agnes Magnolia continues to add more items to their shop and the group is really hitting the ground running. They'll be the next hot New England trend - mark my words, so get it while you can.

Just remember. You heard it here first.

Average Price: Varies by Object/Range of $5-$28
Rating: 5 out of 5!

Alba Coconut Milk Facial Wash

Okay, we'll admit it. We get a little excited when we run out of face wash. Being a firm believer in getting our money's worth and using every product up until the last drop, we only get the chance to make a face wash purchase a couple of times a year. So even if we loved our last, just-used-up product, we almost always try something new the next time around. We have no better excuse for this behavior than sometimes a girl just needs to indulge her product junkie self.

Last week we got our first chance in the new year to give a new facial wash a try. On a whim, we decided to stretch our face cleanser budget a tiny bit and opted for Alba's Coconut Milk Facial Wash. It's that time of year in New England when our face has had it with harsh winds, dry temps, and abrasive cleansers. For a few months, as we move through the rest of winter and into spring, we need a facial wash that will do the dirty work without drying. Basically, we want clear skin without the product "rough-housing" on our skin. Cleanser commitment fears aside, we took a leap of faith. It didn't hurt that Alba's Wash promised to be "soothing, gentle, and richly hydrating." Oh? And the delicious smell didn't bother us either.

Thankfully, our leap of faith worked and we've been pleased with this product from the very first go-round. Come to think of it, we might want to keep this one in the rotation for quite some time. Which means we're just going to have to indulge our product-loving side somewhere else.

Good thing we're almost out of shampoo.

Rating 5 out of 5!
Average Price: $9.99/bottle

J. Crew Lady Day Coat

I might as well come clean. I am in serious lust mode. I'm fawning, swooning, dreaming about Jcrew's Lady Day Coat.

They offer this beauty in a wide variety of colors - all of which I adore, though my top three favorites come in as sea salt, light pewter, and bright colbalt.

It's a pricey number, to be sure, but I'm thisclose to somehow justifying the purchase. I suppose, living in New England and dealing with brutal winter after brutal winter would be reason enough to treat myself to this beauty don't you think?

Sigh. What else can I say? Sometimes a girl just falls in love at first sight.

Average price: $298.00

Rating: 5 out of 5 (at least in my dreams...)

Crush of the Moment: Flannel

In honor of the new Fall season, we are adding a new edition to our running list of discussion points over here at The Pink Mixer.

It may not be a review per-say, but we’d like to occasionally talk about what new trends, items, and styles have caught our eye. (Really, we can’t help but gush over some new hip, fancy, items but our real life friends only have so much patience for these types of chats…) Perhaps you’d like to hear about our obsessions too. Maybe you even have some of your own you’d like to share.

Well, we’re all ears. Gushing – though encouraged – is not required.

******

Trend of the moment? The one we never thought we’d embrace again after spending our adolescence living in the grunge faze that was the early ‘90s?

Flannel.

While a part of us can’t believe it’s back, another side of us can’t believe it ever left. It’s soft, cozy, colorful. Why wouldn’t we want to sport flannel throughout the fall and winter?

The key difference this time around (besides leaving the Doc Martins stuck in the way, way back of our closet) is this is not your father’s flannel. XXL shirts are not the current flannel wave we’re riding. The trend this time around is tapered, tucked, much more feminie. There are ruffles, bows, and darts which means that lumberjack shirt actually looks sexy instead of big, boxy, and unflattering.

Call us crazy but we’re in. After all, it’s going to be a long winter.

Some favorites – recently spotted:
Delia's Elisa Plaid Shirt: $39.50 Gap Plaid Sailor Pencil Skirt: $54.50 Target Junior's Mossimo Boyfriend Flannel: $15.00


Old Navy Plaid Ruffle Flannel Shirt: $24.50