Cortney Loves (March 2013 Favorites)

April 15, 2013 By Cortney Leave a Comment

I was sitting around the other day sifting through some of my Beauty Videos and I realized it had been FOREVER since I did a monthly favorites video/ post. What better way to celebrate the middle of April than with a post of my March 2013 favorites???

Please be sure to comment if you have used any of these items. Some of them are things I really WISH I had ;P so comment if I am just wasting my time or if I absolutely need them.

Buxom Full Bodied Lipstick in Provocateur (Full Red). This shade looks so pretty and i am back in my Red Lipstick phase. I have used Buxom lip glosses before, but never their lipstick. Really want to try this.

Dr. Perricone Blue Plasma peel. The description says that it smoothes, hydrates, and attacks only dead skin cells. Fine for sensitive skin leaving no redness or irritation. This sounds great and looks pretty too.

I adore everything about this bag. It is a nice size to fit everything you need and i’m crazy for just about anything floral print.

I want this Hanging Ball Glass Vase! It is so whimsical and lovely… I wonder if they can make multiple sizes… A backyard full of these would be magical

Comment and let me know your favorites for the month!!

Filed Under: Cortney Loves, No Slider Tagged With: April, Bag, Beauty, Cosmetics By Cortney, Face, Favorites Post, Favorites Video, Gift Guide, Glass Orb, Glass Vase, Hanging Glass Vase, http://www.youtube.com/cosmeticsbycortney, Lipstick, March 2013 Favorites, Microdermabrasion, Peel, Purse, Review, Skin, Skincare, Terrarium, What to Buy

MAC introduces: Archie’s Girls

February 6, 2013 By Cortney Leave a Comment

Archie’s Girls is the newest release at MAC cosmetics. I have to say I am really impressed with the selection and can’t wait to test out some swatches for you guys.

If I was to choose one word to describe MAC, it would have to be Creative. I honestly love the collections they come out with and there is always something for everyone.

[ RELATED: Top 5 Lipstick Shades 4 Spring ]

The rivalry continues between Betty and Veronica. I personally love both sets. Betty has more options for a day time look. Think Pastel Pink and Coral. If you’re looking for a darker- more evening look, I would go with Veronica. But of course, you’re free to mix and match

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As you can see, Archie’s Girls is super cute. If you know someone from that era, this would make a great Valentine’s Day Gift filled with nostalgia.

Filed Under: Beauty, News Tagged With: 2013, Archie, Archie Comics, Archie's Girls, Archie's Girls MAC, Beauty, Best Makeup, Betty and Veronica, Blush, Brushes, CBC, Collection, Cosmetics By Cortney, Eyeshadow, lipglass, Lipstick, MAC, mac cosmetics, mac makeup, Makeup, Mirror, News, Sephora, Set

Tattoo Tuesday #4

December 11, 2012 By Cortney 1 Comment

Lots of B & W tats this week. That seems to be the trend right now but if you wanted a *few more colorful tattoos, be sure to check out last week’s TT.

Enjoy this weeks art!

Sparrow.. love the details on this!

Butterflies everywhere she goes….

Unique.

‘Let no foot mark your ground – let no hand hold you down’

Cheshire Cat UV ink tattoo for body, and regular ink for mouth.

Seahorse tattoo with UV ink. This just looks magical.

Yes.

This was one of my FAVORITE books growing up

Filed Under: No Slider, Tattoo Tuesdays Tagged With: Alice in Wonderland, back piece, Best Tattoos, butterflies, CBC, cheshire cat, Cosmetics By Cortney, Fantasy, fish, glow in the dark tattoo, Goth, Johnny Depp, let no foot mark your ground, let no hand hold you down, Pictures, pictures of tattoos, Quote, rainbow fish, seahorse, Sketch, Sparrow, Tattoos, uv ink, uv tattoo

Just a Personal Note From the Author

December 9, 2012 By Cortney 3 Comments

*This was my post from last week with a few additions. Life has been crazy…. u know how that goes!

If you’ve read any of my recent articles then you’ve probably seen my promises to post personal updates here on Cosmetics By Cortney. I don’t usually like to make my life the main focus of my beauty blog, but a post here and there couldn’t hurt. This might end up being a little long winded, so feel free to skip it if you wish- no offense taken!

I wanted to start off by thanking each and every one of you that stops by my blog. Whether you’ve been here once and read one review or you stop by every day to check and see what’s new. I honestly appreciate all of you.

Right now i’m going through a lot of transitions and working to balance life and work. The same thing I imagine everyone else is trying to do. I had a fantastic Thanksgiving, more than I could have hoped for. One of my sisters flew here to visit and we had a great time catching up. Like most people we cooked (and consumed) way too much food. Good times as always. I hope you all had as great of a Thanksgiving as I did.

I was unfortunate enough to catch the flu this last Thursday, which was a major bummer. I had to miss work on Friday and I could barely walk on my own until Saturday due to my body aches. The sore throat and headaches were total torture and i’m still not completely over it! This was a good lesson for me though. I’m always running around trying to carry more than I should hold. This makeup-free weekend of relaxing and just trying to feel better has given me plenty of time to reflect on things. I’ve really gotta make more time for myself. I’m always telling everyone else to do it and I do TRY, but I seem to get side tracked somehow. Even the little things I used to do for myself have fallen to the wayside lately. Any tips are much appreciated on this matter!

On a brighter note, i’ ve been catching up on old episodes of one of my all-time-favorite t.v. shows: Frasier. I know this humor isn’t for everyone, but I find it hilarious! It never fails to make me smile. I’m smiling just thinking about it. Haha

The weather has been grey and cast over here in L.A. I couldn’t be happier! I have that reverse weather thing where i’ m cranky and unhappy on sunny days. Bummer for someone who lives in Los Angeles!

I guess that about raps up my update. If you want to see more of these, please comment or message me and let me know. XOXO

Filed Under: Opinion Tagged With: About Me, Ask me a Question, Beauty, Beauty Blogger, Blog, Blog Author, Blogger, Cosmetics By Cortney, Interview, Opinion, Personal Update, Skincare, Website Author, What's Up With Me?

Things I Love Thursday

November 29, 2012 By Cortney Leave a Comment

Enjoy!

It is time.

This dress is fabulous!

I would be so happy if I was this organized. That shoe case is so nice!

I do not know the source for this. But it is hilarious. I want this framed and in my house.

Flavor

I miss Disneyland. There is no other word for it: Magical.

Filed Under: Things I Love Thursdays Tagged With: Closet, Color, Cosmetics By Cortney, Disneyland, Dress, Fashion, Frankly My Dear, Fruit, Gone With The Wind, How To Organize a Closet, I don't give a damn, Inside Other peoples houses, Inspirational Photos, it's time to be happy, Lemon, Organization Tips, Photos, Pictures, Quote, Rainbow, Rhett Butler, Scarlet, Things I Love Thursdays, TILT, wardrobe

Tattoo Tuesday #3

November 27, 2012 By Cortney 4 Comments

I have been a busy little bee this week. I know that is beginning to be the story of my life (and I will do a blog post with more details soon.) But it is always so nice to come back to this blog and share with all of you. I hope you’ve been enjoying Tattoo Tuesdays so far. I can’t believe we are already at number 3!

But without further ado, here are the tattoos!

So basically, I love everything about this photo. But I think her tattoo is also adorable and original. I really wish i knew what lip gloss she was wearing here!

This is something we should all stop and consider…

I love all of the symbolism on this.

It Is.

I adore this. It’s simple, but not understated. *Note: I apologize because the site seems to be down. If the source has moved, feel free to contact me so I can change the link.

Everyone Needs a Hello Kitty Cupcake Tattoo!

Please comment and tell me what your favorite tattoos were! Also, feel free to comment with links to tat’s you feel should make it to Tattoo Tuesday!

Filed Under: No Slider, Tattoo Tuesdays Tagged With: 2012, All Tattoos, Arm, b&w, Best Tattoos, Bird, black and white, Blue, Body, CBC, Color, Cosmetics By Cortney, Follow Me On Pinterest, Green, Hair, Kawaii, leg, Original, Photos of tattoos, pics, pictures of tattoos, Pink, Rainbow, recent tattoo pictures, shark, Shoulder, Sparrow, Sun, Tattoo, Tattoo Tuesday, tattoo tuesday #3, what kind of tattoo should i get

To Shave, or Not to Shave. That IS the question.

November 14, 2012 By Cortney Leave a Comment

If I’m being honest, the debate over facial hair has been going on for like… ever.

I imagine having a beard or a goatee can bring a sense of comfort and maybe even confidence. Similar to the feeling many people have when wearing sunglasses.

You might be on the fence about whether or not you should sport some hair on your face. The truth is, this all comes down to personal preference and functionality. Below I’ve provided some insight that might help you answer the big question.

Is it Functional? Let’s face it, if it’s 100 degrees outside in the middle of July, do you really want to mess with an itchy sweaty beard? That doesn’t sound very fun to me. Which brings me to my next point:

[ RELATED: 5 Reasons Men Practice Good Skincare ]

Is it the Season? It turns out- you CAN have the best of both worlds. One of my favorite teachers in High School used to keep a beard for half the year. You can always wear a beard/ goatee for the chilly Winter months and keep a clean shave for the warmer ones.

Does it Work for Your Better Half? Some women are crazy for a goatee or full on beard; but does your girl feel that way? Or does the woman you’re seeking feel that way? Now let me be clear, I am not saying you should base your appearance preferences solely on what your girlfriend likes. I’m merely making the point that many men like to take that into account… Especially if you want to avoid giving her beard burn after a smooch.

[ Shaving Cream Substitutes you Already Own ]

Is it Appropriate? There are some scenarios in which you just can’t have facial hair. Maybe your job doesn’t allow it, or you have a function to attend in which part of the dress code is to be clean shaven. In this case, the decision is made for you.

Filed Under: Confidence, Men's Fashion & Style Tagged With: 2012, 5 Oclock Shadow, Advice for Men, Beauty, Cosmetics By Cortney, Do Women Like Facial Hair?, Face, Goatee, How to Shave, How To Wear Beard, Men's Fashion, Men's Skincare, Men's Style, My Girlfriend Hates my Beard, Sexy, Shaving Cream Substitutes, Should I Shave?, Skincare, Tips for Men, Why Should I Shave?

Tattoo Tuesday

November 13, 2012 By Cortney 3 Comments

Yep, you read the title right. Tattoo Tuesday is the newest installment here at Cosmetics By Cortney. I’m so excited to have this new addition to the blog. I know many people have mixed feelings on the subject of tattoos but I for one love them and hope to get one someday soon.

At first I was worried you all might think that a post about tattoos didn’t fit the overall theme of my site; BUT I decided there was no reason I couldn’t do a tribute to body art here. Tattoos definitely fall under the category of cosmetics!

*Remember, just because you don’t want a tattoo, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy other people’s body art

Love this idea. Perfect for a musician

I am a long time obsessed fan of Vintage Pyrex and I have serious respect for this tattoo

This is amazing. The colors are so beautiful and I love the birds on the left shoulder also.

Such a cute idea! Minnesota pride tattoo. Perfect for your home state or zodiac sign.

Hopeless Romantic. I think this is so adorable.

Please be sure to comment and tell me what you think of this new installment to the CBC! Also, if you comment about the tattoos posted, please be respectful. It’s okay to be honest here, but blatantly hateful comments will be deleted.

Filed Under: Beauty, Tattoo Tuesdays Tagged With: All Tattoos, Beauty, Bird, Cosmetics By Cortney, Cute Tattoos, Don't forget to Subscribe!, Floral, Flower, Font, Garden, Hopeless Romantic, Lovely Tattoos, Map, Music Note Tatto, Pyrex Tattoo, Quote, Script Tattoo, Sexy Tattoos, State, State Pride, Tattoo, Tattoo Ideas, Tattoo Tuesdays, TT, Vintage Tattoo, Zodiac

DIY Peel Off Mask

November 5, 2012 By Cortney 1 Comment

Although many of you follow my DIY Fruit Facials, this is the first time I have posted a recipe for a Peel Off Mask. I’m constantly on the look out for new Do-It-Yourself skin treatments. Be sure to “Like” my Facebook so you’ll be the first to view new recipes!

First off, in case you’re new to the world of DIY you should be aware of the big benefits to making your own skincare recipes. When you make something yourself, you gain the relief of knowing exactly what you’re putting on your skin. You can skip out on those additives and preservatives. Another great benefit of DIY is you almost always save money. I can’t think of a time I spent more money on one of my Fruit Facials than on something i’ve purchased at my local beauty store.

[ RELATED: Do-It-Yourself Dry Hair Treatment ]

DIY Peel Off Mask:

1) Beat the white of an egg

2) Apply the egg white on your face and neck. Be sure to avoid the eye and mouth areas. (use a generous amount, but there is no need to apply a heap of egg white)

3) Take a thin tissue, place it gently over your egg white brushed face. Pat gently one by one to cover fully. (In some cases you will need a double layer)

4) Apply another layer of egg white over tissue and leave it on to dry.

[ Try: Get Rid of Dark Circles ]

5) When completely dry, gently peel-off the tissue in an upward direction from the face– Take a look at all of the black heads and yucky stuff on the tissue!

6) Wash off your face with luke warm water and apply a gentle moisturizer.

Ta-Da! Now you can bask in the glory of your fantastic results! Be sure to comment and let me know what you think of this DIY Peel mask <3

Filed Under: Beauty, Fruit Facial Fridays, Skincare Tagged With: 2012, 2013, At home recipes, Beautiful, Beauty, Beauty Recipes, Cosmetics By Cortney, DIY, Do It Yourself, Egg, Exfoliant, Exfoliate, Face, Facial, Fruit Facial, Get Rid of Dark Circles, How to get perfect skin, How to get soft skin, How to make your own face peel, make your own, Makeup, Mask, Over The Counter, Peel Off Mask, pinterest/ cortneyloves, Products, Scrub, Skincare, Tissue, Why DIY

Top Five Lipstick Shades for Winter

November 4, 2012 By Cortney 1 Comment

If you were ever in the mood to go bold with your Lipstick Color- Now is the time. Winter is a great season to show off the solid colors in your wardrobe and use contrasting lipstick colors to match. If you’re a little apprehensive about wearing bold lipstick shades, I recommend reading: Everyone Can Wear Red Lipstick- Even You!

Below are the Top 5 Lipstick Shades to wear during the Winter and Fall Months. Although there are so many beautiful colors to choose from, i’ve narrowed it down to just five. Don’t forget- if you want long lasting lipstick, be sure to use a good Lip Primer

[ RELATED: Top 5 Lipstick Shades for Spring ]

Be sure to comment if you have any additions you feel deserved to make the list!

Cranberry

Cranberry and Burgundy shades are fantastic for this time of year. Striking against any skin tone, this color will bring a lovely “pop” to any face. I recommend wearing long lashes and subtle eyeliner with this lipstick color.

Browns

Brown shades of lipstick are often under rated. Many people gravitate toward Nude and Tan colors, but browns are a great addition to any face. Bonus: This color looks great for more “natural” looks too.

Shimmery Pinks

Don’t be fooled. Not all Winter Lipstick colors are Dark or Matte. Shimmery Pinks are beautiful, especially when paired with a creamy shimmer blush. I can’t help but think of a Winter Wonderland when I see shades like the one above.

[ More Makeup Love: Here ]

Gold:

Over the years, Gold has gotten a bad rap. Women either think it doesn’t match their skin tone or they think it’s too flirty/too bright/ too something or another. But i’m here to tell you- it’s just fine! Gold is an excellent “highlighting” color and can be played up or down, depending on your outfit and preferences.

Black

The Winter and Fall months are by FAR the best times to wear black lipstick (In my humble opinion). You can even layer it over a deep red lipstick like the one shown above. FYI you will change your look dramatically depending on what color eyeshadow you wear, so play around and see what you like.