Sunday, July 29, 2018

Sothys Spring/Summer Collection ~ Review + Swatches

Hello beauties! It's been a hot minute since I posted and I think an explanation is needed. I wish I had an exciting excuse (ahem reason) but I don't. I've been feeling uninspired and it's been crazy hot so I haven't worn much makeup lately. I've also done the unthinkable and have been spending more time offline - yes you read that right.  I've been enjoying the real world and sorry, not sorry. Sometimes a girls gotta stop and smell the roses, swim in all the pools and just soak up the sun (with sunscreen on, obviously).

sothys lipstick

But as they say absence makes the heart grow fonder, and I've missed you all. As I ease my way back into regular posting, I thought I would share a short and sweet review of Sothys Spring/Summer Collection.

Sothys Spring/Summer Collection takes inspiration from Sothys garden and the super greens trend that showcases lush nature and an invitation to freshness. Personally I don't see the connection, but I must admit I do like the shade choices!

sothy ombre eye quartet palette

Ombre Sothys - Eye Quartette ($68.50) contains four new complimentary shades that can be used dry or moist, separately or in harmony. Each shade is iridescent and they are easily buildable and blendable. Although I like the shades, I don't find them to be the most exciting. I really wish that there were a matte transition shade because without it, this quad just feels incomplete. The shadows are quite nice and they wear well with minimal creasing or fading which is super important.

ombre sothys eye quartet palette swatch

rouge intense sothys rouge mat sothys

Sothys has two lipsticks in this collection, one satin and one matte. They look very similar in swatches and in real life as well. The main difference is that Rouge Intense Sothys 235 Rouge Roseraie ($35.95) has a semi opaque, satin finish whereas Rouge Mat Sothys 330 Orange Escapade Velours ($35.95) is more opaque, kind of matte and a touch warmer. The tone difference is super subtle so I wouldn't focus too much on it. For those who aren't makeup addicted, I recommend picking your finish preference as they are so similar in colour. Both wear well and are definitely comfortable. Sothys does lipstick well. Really well. They taste good, glide on and feel so amazing plus they wear for hours.

sothys rouge mat velvet effect lipstick rouge intense sothys satiny lipstick swatch


There are a few other items in this collection that are not included in my review; The Calligraphy Eyeliner ($33.50), Sun Glow Bronzing Powder ($61.50) and a Nail Lacquer ($19). Although I haven't tried these particular items, I will say that from experience,  Sothys nail polish is quite good (review here).



Sothys Spring/Summer Collection can be found in Institute and Spas throughout Canada. To find the location nearest you, call toll-free 1-800-361-3004




*Press samples were generously provided to me for editorial consideration. All opinions are my own.









Friday, July 13, 2018

Palmer's Coconut Oil Formula ~ Review + IG Giveaway

When it comes to summer skincare I adopt a less is more attitude. I don't want to layer on tons of skincare, so I rely on 'one and done' formulas to give me a healthy glow. When it comes to body care, I adopt the same attitude. I go for a light lotion and then cover myself in sunscreen. I adore summer scents (sunscreen, coconut, monoi oil, light florals) and I will always give preference to summer scented products over wearing perfume as I find my favourites are often too heavy for the heat and humidity of summer.

Review and skincare giveaway

I was recently given the opportunity to try three NEW product's from Palmer's Coconut Oil Formula and I am just a little bit obsessed! The scents are fabulous and they're so hydrating - a definite win! And if you stick around til the end of my review, it could be a win for you too 😉

These new additions to the Palmer's range drench the skin in rich moisture for dewy, radiant skin that looks lit from within. These products are free of harsh chemicals, contain ethically and sustainability sourced Coconut Oil and Tahitian Monoï Oil, infused with Tiaré Flower Petals. Did I mention they smell like a summer dream?!

Coconut Oil Body Lotion Giveaway

My favourite of the three has got to be the Coconut Oil Body Lotion. It's light, fast absorbing and gives my skin 24 hour moisture. It smells like delicious coconut and monoi, without being overpowering, and its formulated without parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, gluten, sulfate or dyes. This lotion is the bomb dot com and I can see myself using it year round reminiscing of carefree summers.

Coconut Oil Body Oil Giveaway

Palmer's Coconut Oil Body Oil contains the same hydration benefits as the lotion but in concentrated oil form. This Body Oil doesn't smell quite as strong as the lotion which is a slight let down for me, but it still smells nice. It adds an instant touch of radiance to my skin and I am here for it! This oil sinks in and doesn't feel heavy on but it is an oil and I'm not that into oils in the summer. Having said that, I would wear it if I were going out in the evening because it adds such a lovely glow.

Coconut Oil Luminous Hydration Facial Oil Giveaway

Lastly, Palmer's Coconut Oil Luminous Hydration Facial Oil. I wasn't expecting much from this facial oil and I'm not exaggerating when I say that it's really good.

This oil is non-greasy, fast absorbing and very hydrating. It features 10 pure, precious oils to boost hydration, nourish skin and add radiance. These are the miracle working oils you will find in Palmer's Coconut Oil Luminous Hydration Facial Oil (in no particular order)

·Extra Virgin Coconut Oil (Cocos Nucifera)
·Tahitian Monoi Oil (Gardenia Tahitensis Flower)
·Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis)
·Macadamia Oil (Ternifolia)
·Argan Oil (Argonia Spinosa)
·Grapeseed Oil (Vitis Vinifera)
·Maracuja (Passionflower) Oil (Passiflora Edulis)
·Sunflower Oil (Helianthus Annuus)
·Apricot Oil (Prunus Armeniaca)
·Sesame Oil (Sesamum Indicum)

Now I haven't been using this consistently so I can't really say what the long term effects are. I will say that upon application my skin looks glowing (not super dewy - thank goodness) and it feels super smooth. Surprisingly enough it's fast absorbing and my skin is perfectly balanced requiring no additional creams or lotions. I can see myself really getting into this come fall when I want to glow and need the extra boost of hydration. Currently, I'm only using it in the evenings when I need a little pick me up.

Oh, and I should note that it's important to exercise caution when using oils in the summer. Make sure to always apply sunscreen and use oils sparingly - you will burn otherwise. I learned this lesson the hard way many years ago.

TLDR; I am LOVING Palmer's Coconut Oil Formula and I know that you will too! And guess what? I've partnered with Palmer's to give THREE of my Canadian readers the chance to try these three products too! Hurray!!

Entering is simple; find my Palmer's post on Instagram and follow the instructions for your first entry (mandatory). Then come back here and leave a comment to gain a bonus entry. And don't forget to include your Instagram handle with your comment so I can assign you your bonus entry.

I will be drawing 3 winners in a week and the sponsor is responsible for prize fulfillment. Canadians only and absolutely no giveaway accounts.


Good luck!


*PR samples were generously provided for editorial consideration. As always, all opinions are my own.