Ipsy (My Glam) November 2013 Review

Hello lovelies!

Ipsy is my favorite thing to blog about, because who doesn't love getting a big ol' bag of surprise makeup items in the mail, for only $10?!

For those of you NOT familiar with Ipsy, Ipsy is a makeup subscription program that sends out 4-5 full size or deluxe sample size items out to subscribers, plus a cute cosmetics bag, each month for just $10 (plus $5 shipping if you are in Canada, and tax in NY, NC, and CA).  Bags have different values, but I've never had one that disappointed- I love my Ipsy subscription!  If you would like to try Ipsy out, please consider using my referral link- I get point towards goodies and you get good karma (and then your own link to share)!  I also wrote a fun post HERE, that shows what 10 months and $100 of Ipsy subscriptions has brought me, what I used, gave away, and don't use.

Ok, enough chit chat- on to the goodies!

Pretty Pink Mailer

I seriously love seeing these pink envelopes in the mailbox.  I stalk my tacking numbers like a sparkly teenage vampire, and love love love that flash of pink!

First Peek

I know, I'm SUCH a tease!  Here's a first look inside my November Ipsy bag- I spy gold...

The Insert Card

This month's theme is "Glam It Up".  Bring it on, Ipsy- November is my birthday month, and I want to glam it up with lots and lots of color!

The Brands

I love getting lots of discount codes from Ipsy each month, and then sharing them with you all!  Looks like there's potential for lots of great deals this month!  Plus, a contest to win a year's subscription to Ipsy?!  I'm totally in for that!

EM Cosmetics insert card

I think that it's sweet that Michelle Phan included a little thank you note in the bags this month, that explains that Ipsy subscribers are the first to receive full size products as a trial (I'm assuming the first to receive them in a subscription service, because big YouTubers and Bloggers have been given products for review purposes).

The Bag

Ipsy bags have come in many shapes and sizes, and this one is unique.  A gold wristlet?  Hmm.  Not quite my style, but this will be added to someone's Christmas package, and make a friend a happy girl.  Or make them question my taste.  Really, that could go either way.


This month, I was EXTRA excited to receive my bag, because of the usual 4-5 items, we are getting SIX!!  I'll start with items that everyone is slated to receive, and then move on to the "variables".

Be A Bombshell Lip Crayon in Hot Damn, full size (2.5g/0.09 oz), $14 retail, available HERE.  Discount code IPSY40 will get you 40% off any purchase, plus a free Coco Delight Lip Gloss, until 12/15/13, US only, can't be combined with other offers.

I gotta hand it to Be A Bombshell Cosmetics- I look at this shade and I say, "Hot Damn" is most definitely an appropriate name! This bright red lip crayon is super creamy and glides on with perfection. Ipsy sent out this lip crayon to all subscribers, in both this shade and the color Shameless.

Swatch of Hot Damn

This looks like it would be a true red in the tube, but swatches more like an orange-red.  I don't usually wear lip products this bright, but in the fall and winter months, I am sure I can find several occasions to rock a red lip!  I gave this a try, and it applies very nicely, twists up (as apposed to needing to be sharpened), and is very long lasting.  All good things, right?  The only thing I don't like about this pencil is the shade.  This particular shade of orangey red makes my lips look really small.  I'm going to try layering another color over or under it so that I can make it work, because the formula is seriously great!

GRADE: 4/5 (The only thing I don't like is...the color!)

Nailtini Straight Up Color Nail Lacquer in Caviar Cocktail, full size (15ml/0.5 fl oz), $13 retail, available HERE.  Discount code ipsy4glam will get you 50% off plus a free eyeliner, your purchase of $25 or more, until 12/31/13, US only, can't be combined with other offers.

I love me some nail polish, and I find that the Nailtini brand is very long lasting (as well it should be, at $13 a bottle!).  The shade I received is Caviar Cocktail, which is a gunmetal grey, sort of a pewter color.  There is minimal shimmer and no glitter, which is unusual, in my experience, in a silvery shade.

Swatch of Caviar Cocktail

I used this shade as an accent color on a pretty blue mani, and I absolutely love it! I don't think I would ever wear this shade alone, but I don't have anything similar to it in my collection.  I'm happy to try it out!
GRADE: 5/5

Pixi Beauty Bronzer in Subtly Sunkissed, deluxe sample size  (3.2g/0.11 0z), $4.88 approx. retail value; full size is 10.21g/0.36 oz and includes a kabuki brush, retails for $18, available HERE.  Discount code BronzePixi will get you 25% off any purchase, until 12/15/13, US only.

My favorite thing about Pixi is the adorable packaging.  I love this pale green, the flowering vines and the Pixi logo.  It was difficult to figure out the retail value for this item, because the full size comes with a kabuki brush (only in my dreams, Ipsy doesn't seem to think I want/need brushes!), so the price above is my best guess- I took $2 off the full size price to account for the brush.  I received the shade Subtly Sunkissed, and I have to say that it is aptly named.

Swatch of Subtly Sunkissed

This bronzer has just a touch of color- perfect for those that are very fair, or who are just beginning to bronze. I'm totally in love with my Hoola bronzer, but I'm always open to trying new things.  I gave this a try, and it is a little too light for my current skin tone.  Give me another month of no sun, and this will work nicely for me.  It is very natural looking, and applied nicely for me.  This shade does have a hint of shimmer, as you can see in the photo above, so if you only like matte bronzers, then this is not for you.
GRADE: 4/5 (I wish it were just a hair darker, and maybe less shimmery.)

Starlooks Gem Eye Pencil in Topaz, full size (2.4g), $14 retail, available HERE.  Discount code IPSY will get you 40% off any purchase, until 12/15/13, valid worldwide, unlimited usage.

I've receive an eye pencil from Starlooks before, and it was just okay for me.  Ipsy sent the Gem Eye Pencil out in two shades this month, Topaz and Amethyst.  While I would have liked to try amethyst (I heart purples!), I was happy to receive Topaz because it's my birthstone!

Swatch of Topaz Gem Eye Pencil

I was very surprised when I swatched this pencil- when I think "topaz", I think of a gorgeous golden brown shade.  This pencil swatched metallic silver, with a faint blue tint to it.  I would almost call this straight up silver. That being said, I don't have an eyeliner in this shade, so I'm happy to add this to my collection, just was surprised by the name!  I gave this eyeliner a try, and I absolutely loved it on my face!  I had a hint of glitter fallout during the day, but as I used a light hand, it was not very noticeable.  I received several compliments while wearing this, so it will definitely make it to my train case.
GRADE: 4.5/5

Each subscribe also received an item from the new cosmetic line, em Cosmetics.  Subscribers could receive either a Waterliner intense color eyeliner ($20 retail value); Lash Gallery mascara in either lengthening, clean volume, dramatic volume or waterproof dramatic volume ($20 retail value), Pillow Plush cushiony lip balm ($15 retail value), or Lip Gallery Creamy Color lipstick in either classic or sheer ($16.50 retail value), and all items sent out are full size. I received the lengthening mascara.

EM Lash Gallery lengthening mascara in black, full size (7ml/0.236 fl oz), retails for $20, available HERE.  Discount code ipsy30 will get you 30% off your order, until 11/30/13, can't be combined with other offers, US only.

I'm excited to try out more of Michelle Phan's line (I picked some up as part of my birthday haul), but honestly I am swimming in mascara. EM offers 4 different types of mascara, and all four were sent to subscribers to test: lash gallery clean volume, lash gallery dramatic volume, lash gallery dramatic volume waterproof, and lash gallery lengthening mascaras.  If I HAD to receive mascara, I think I received the one I would have liked the most: lengthening, as my lashes are stubby and nearly invisible.  The little blurb on the box reads: "inspired by the girl who loves to tease with her eyes.  create instant lash extensions with built in micro-fibers, extend, without clumps, remove easily with warm water."  Most of the mascaras I've been loving have HUGE wands- this is much smaller, and has a gentle curve.  I gave this a try, and it really does add amazing length to my lashes.  However, it adds zero volume, and that is something that I need as well.  I had no flaking, no raccoon eyes, and it applied virtually clump free.  It's a very nice mascara.  How does it compare to Benefit's They're Real! and Rimmel London's Retroglam?  I like them both better- but that only has to do with the fact that they both add a little volume, in addition to length.  If you have full lashes that need length- this is definitely something to check out- my lashes got crazy long with just two or three coats!  I'll be adding this to my mascara rotation!
GRADE: 5/5

Subscribers also received one item, from an assortment.  I received the BH Cosmetics Galaxy Chic Eyeshadow single.  Items other subscribers received are: GlamGlow YouthMud (deluxe sample), Cailyn mineral eyeshadow with built-in sponge tip applicator (full size), HSI Professional Argan Oil (deluxe sample), Kiss EverEZlashes double pack (full size), and Tresemme Tres Two Extra Hold Hairspray (travel size).

bhCosmetics baked eyeshadow single, from the Galaxy Chic collection, in Asteroid, deluxe sample (1 full size appearing pan), retail value $0.83 (or if you go off the regular price, $1.28); full size palette contains 18 pans (couldn't find a size), and is currently on sale for $14.95 (regularly $22.95, but bh always has sales), available HERE.  Discount code IPSY20 will get you 20% off the full Galaxy Chic palette (which is gorgeous), until 12/31/13, can't be combined with any other offers, valid internationally (yay!).

First and foremost, how adorable is this packaging?  Seriously, this is so cute!

I love me some eyeshadow, but you probably all know that.  I was excited to try out the new BH line, because I hadn't had a lot of luck with them in the past (not terribly pigmented). I received the eyeshadow singe in the shade Asteroid, which is a gorgeous brown and blue blend.

Swatch of Asteroid

I gave this a try, and was really impressed!  I own two bh palettes, and received a sample from their California Collection in the summer; and on all of these, I had to work to get decent color payoff.  This shadow is super pigmented, and is absolutely gorgeous.  I trying to talk myself out of wanting the full palette right now, but only because I KNOW what my BFF bought me for Christmas (UD's BOS IV Redux and Lorac Pro Palette)...If I see an amazing deal on this, I might have a weak moment and purchase it.  Should I get this, or the Urban Decay Naked 3???  Hmm..decisions, decisions...
GRADE: 5/5

Other items from the assortment that I didn't receive, but you might have:

Glamglow Youthmud Tinglexfoliate Treatment, deluxe sample size (0.5 oz); retail value $20.29, available HERE.  Full size is 1.7 fl oz/50g and retails for $69. Discount code IPSY will get you 30% off any purchase, until 12/13/13; not valid on samples, US only.

Cailyn Built-in Sponge Tip Mineral Eye Shadow in Champagne, full size (2.5g); retails for $15, available HERE.  Discount code IPSY30 will get you 30% off any purchase, until 12/15/13, can't be combined with other offers, international shipping available (yay!).

HSI Professional Argan Oil, deluxe sample size (5mL); retail value $2.54, available HERE.  Full size is 2 oz/59.15mL (smaller full size) and retails for $29.99.  Discount code IPSY50SS will get you 50% off any purchase, until 12/20/13, valid in the US and Canada.

Kiss EverEzLashes Lash Double Pack (with glue and tweezers), full size, retails for $5.99, available HERE.  Discount code IPSY will get you 30% off any purchase of Kiss or iEnvy lashes, until 12/15/23; can't be combined with other offers, not vaild on clearance or shock prices, US only.

TRESemme Tres Two Extra Hold Hairspray, deluxe sample size (1.5 oz/42.5g), retail value $0.54, available HERE.  Full size is 11 oz, and retails for $3.99.  No discount code this month!

November 2013 Ipsy Glam Bag

Now for the financial breakdown.  As always, value isn't always determined by money- an expensive item that I know I hate has no value at all to me; while an inexpensive, easily found item that is absolutely amazing would be a priceless find!  Here's what's in the bags this month, so you can calculate how much YOUR bag is worth, along with what MINE is worth.
Items sent to subscribers this month:

Be A Bombshell Lip Crayon (full size)- $14
Pixi Bronzer (deluxe sample)- $4.88 (est.)
Nailtini polish (full size)- $13
Starlooks gem eye pencil (full size)- $14

em Lash Gallery mascara in either lengthening, clean volume, dramatic volume
em Waterliner intense color eyeliner (full size)- $20
em Pillow Plush cushiony lip balm (full size)- $15
em Lip Gallery creamy color lipstick in either classic or sheer (full size)- $16.50

bh Cosmetics Galaxy Chic eyeshadow pan (deluxe sample)- $0.83 ($1.28 nonsale price)
Glamglow Youthmud (deluxe sample)- $20.29
Cailyn Mineral Eye Shadow (full size)- $15
HSI Professional Argan oil (deluxe sample)- $2.54
Kiss EverEzLashes double pack (full size)- $5.99
TRESemme Tres Two Extra Hold Hairspray (deluxe sample)- $0.54

Total amount spent: $10, shipping included
Total value of *MY* bag": $66.71 (or if you count the full price value of the bh eyeshadow, $67.16!
My bag had one of the LOWEST possible retail values, and you know what- I don't EVEN care!  A retail value of almost $70 is pretty fanfreakingtastic for a $10 gamble!  Plus, I found a couple of new favorites- this is DEFINTELY worth the $10!

Here's a crappy instagram pic of the look I created with my Ipsy bag, minus the lip pencil (it's just too red, haven't found a way to make it work...yet):

I used both shades of the bh Cosmetics Galaxy Chic Asteroid shadow separately, the Starlooks gem liner in topaz,  em cosmetics lash gallery lengthening mascara, and Pixi bronzer in subtly sunkissed.  The lip pencil from BaB was too dark for this look, so I used Urban Dacay's lip crayon in Glinda.

Here is a video of Missy and me, unbagging our Ipsy bags together :)

 

Until next time, my lovelies- stay Average!

Disclaimer: I paid for these items with my own my husband's money.  The opinions in this post are my true and honest reviews of these items.  No company requested nor required this review.  The links are NOT referral links, except the Ipsy link.  That's totally a referral link because I like free things.

Ipsy (MyGlam) September 2013 Review

It feels weird to not have a Beauty Army post this month, but I didn't have a great selection in my window, so I skipped August.  Now here we are again at Ipsy time! I know I usually post a little more about my life, but honestly, I've been so busy living it, and preparing for my Lash Bash this past week, I haven't had time to write about it!  Here's an update for anyone who is interested (feel free to skip to the next paragraph if you have ZERO interest, it won't hurt my feelings, I promise!): my tween-angel loves middle school, has band every day, joined TWO youth groups and plays volleyball on Tuesdays.  Tiny love is upset that she doesn't go to school, and it finally dawned on her that when she DOES go, I won't be there with her; yes, there was a major freakout.  The weather has taken a cold snap, but is still in the 70's after noon.  Scouts has started again, and of course, it's Fund Raising season (why must school and Scouts have a fund raiser at the EXACT same time, with the EXACT same stuff??!!).  The Hubster is working, as usual, and we all love relaxing at night in the hot tub.  Last night for dinner, we had homemade chicken noodle soup, courtesy of the Hubster (I don't cook.  I bake.  The difference is huge.).

Ok, enough about me and my craziness.  You came here to read all about Ipsy's September bag, right!  Don't know what Ipsy is?  Ipsy is a beauty subscription service that sends you 4-5 full size or deluxe sample sized items for only $10 a month (plus tax in CA, NC and NY, plus $4.95 shipping in Canada).  It's a great deal, and it's so much fun to receive a cute bag of goodies each month.  Upside of Ipsy: you get something new each month, and it's usually a decent variety of items, mostly makeup.  They have contests and a way to review products, to hopefully get more of what you want and less of what you don't want.  Downside of Ipsy: shipping takes forever and it's basically a gamble: they now send so many items, it's the luck of the draw if you get a "good" bag or a "meh" bag.  Even with a "meh" bag, I think Ipsy is worth the $10, and if you want to try them out, please consider using my referral link: I receive points, and you receive my eternal thanks and some good karma.

I love seeing these in my mailbox!

It seemed like shipping took forever this month, and my bag was one of the later ones shipped.  I KNOW I have NO right to complain because I received a Lash Bash this month, but darnit, I really wanted my bag to be timely. Finally, it arrived in my mailbox.

First Look

I love getting that first peek into the pink envelopes.  I want to see what's on top!  

Classic Beauty

The insert card is styled a bit different this month.  It took me a moment to read "Classic Beauty" as the theme.  I love this theme, and was hoping for things to give me a real "Bombshell" look.

The deals

The first thought I had when I flipped over the card was, "Holy cow, that's a LOT of discounts!"  And then I saw brands like Butter London, Jesse's Girl, and Cailyn, and got super excited- I want THESE in my bag!!!

em Michelle Phan

Michelle Phan, the mastermind behind Ipsy, has launched her own cosmetics line.  In this month bag, I received a card promoting her "Life" palette, that retails for $75.  This palette looks to be pretty huge, I don't think it would fit in my train case!  I do like that the pans are removeable and refillable, though, and when you purchase a life palette, you receive an empty travel size palette so that you can take one of the looks with you on the go.  One thing that I DON'T like about this, is that it has cream products (lipstick/gloss) and powder products (eyeshadow/blush) in the same palette, where the powder can get into the cream and make yuckiness.  I'm probably NOT going to buy it at this price, but I will check out the single use sample:

sample of Look 3 from the Career Life palette

This is called "Out to Lunch", and features neutral shadows and a peach cheek color.  If you want to check out this for yourself, you can find it HERE.

September's bag

I seriously LOVE the bag this month, it's a beautiful TARDIS blue, with a butterfly pattern on it.  SO gorgeous!  I couldn't get the color correct in the photos I took, but I am telling you- it's the perfect blue.  The pattern is reminiscent of Sherlock Holmes' walls at 221B Baker Street from Sherlock.  Yes, I'm a geek girl.  What?! I have no idea what use I will put this bag to, but it WILL be used, you can count on that!

Freeman Beauty Feeling Beautiful Facial Paper Masks, set of 3 (Hydrating, Purifying and Brightening), each 15g (single packs), $1.99 each, available HERE.  Discount code IPSYFB will get you a free Dead Sea Minerals Anti-Stress Foaming Bath, with the purchase of the Sweet 16 Sachet Set, until 11/30/13 (US and Canada only).

Skincare for me is either hit or miss. I have weirdly sensitive skin, and it's oily in some areas and uber dry in others.  I was interested to try these masks and see how they worked for me.  I cracked open the Hydrating mask, with blue agave, and gave it a try:

Late night beauty pampering session- does anyone NOT look silly in these things?

It felt really nice on my skin, and smelled appealing.  The eye holes didn't match up perfectly with my eyes, but I could still see.  I was a little worried about getting the serum in my eyes, but it was ok.  The masks are single packs, and once you remove them from the packaging, there is a white liner that is peeled off and discarded.  After wearing the mask for about ten minutes, I peeled it off and massaged the serum into my skin.  I was sticky for a few minutes, but the morning after, my skin felt clean and hydrated (except for one dry patch.  I don't think anything can help that).  The brightening mask has slightly different directions: leave on for 3-5 minutes, and rinse after use.  While this isn't a product I would have requested to try, I am happy to have received it, and would probably repurchase, especially since these are sold at mass market stores.
Grade 4/5

Nyx Eyeshadow single in Cryptonite, full size (2.5g), retail value $4.50, available HERE.  Discount code IPSYPRIME will get you 30% off eyeshadow bases and high definition eye shadow bases, until 10/15/13.  US only (sorry, my international friends!).

I love me some eye shadow.  I think I have a shadow addiction problem, honestly.  I was happy to try out Nyx eyeshadow this month, and was excited to see what shade I would receive.  When I popped this little gem out of my bag, I was a little sad to see the shade, Cryptonite, despite it's awesome name. 

Swatch of Nyx eyeshadow single in Cryptonite

Despite being sceptical when I first saw this, I gave it a try- and LOVED it!  It isn't super pigmented, but is easy to layer, so I was able to get a pretty wash of color in the corner of my eye, to help create a smoky eye effect. Honestly, I thought I would HATE this shade, but after I tried it out, I really liked it! I am still super jealous of the ladies who received a purple or white shadow, as those are what I was hoping to receive; but on the other hand, I'm really glad I didn't get a bright yellow or orange.  I love how Cryptonite is sparkly and shimmery.
Grade: 4/5  

J.Cat Beauty Fantabulous Lipstick in Honeycrisp (FL107), full size (3g), retail value $2.49, available HERE.  Discount code fabipsy will get you 25% off of any purchase, until 10/15/13, US and Canada only.

In my opinion, nude lipsticks don't match the "Classic Beauty" theme that Ipsy has going this month. I would consider a red lip to be part of the "Classic Beauty" that lives in my head.  That being said, I was intrigued to give J. Cat Beauty another try, and for lipsticks at $2.49 each, I wanted to give them a try.  When I saw the shade in person, I was very sceptical:

Swatch of Fantabulous Lipstick in Honeycrisp (FL107)

At first glance, this is just too close to my skintone to be flattering.  The formula itself is super creamy, and not at all drying, but this color does absolutely nothing for me.  I tried it on my lips, and my husband came home for lunch, and immediately asked me what was wrong with my lips!  Honestly, it looks like I put concealer a couple shades too dark on my lips.  I will however, give this a go, and use it to tone down some bright shades of 'stick for a more wearable look.  I also want to say that the first time I used this, my lipstick bullet broke right off of the tube- I didn't have it twisted all the way up, and wasn't pressing overly hard.  I emailed Ipsycare, and they are sending me a replacement.  I was impressed at how fast I heard back from Ipsy, and am happy that they are replacing my defective item (hopefully with a different item?  Ipsy? Do you hear me?).
Grade: 3/5 (great formula, the color is just a miss for me)

Starlooks Kohl Eye Pencil in Obsidian, full size (2.4), retail value $12.00, available HERE.  Discount code IPSY will get you 20% off of a purchase of $35 or more, until 10/15/13, valid worldwide, unlimited uses.

The next item in my beautiful blue bag is the Starlooks Kohl Eye Pencil in the shade Obsidian, a dark black.  Side note: the word Obsidian brings back memories of my dad and me, reading The Far Side comic strips.  One of them was of cavemen, making a promise to each other: Cross my heart, hope to die, stick a sharp piece of obsidian in my eye (because they hadn't invented needles back then.  get it?).  Ah, good times.  Ok, back to the makeup.  I have a TON on eyeliner pencils, but I don't think I have ANY kohl pencils.  My favorite eyeliner is the Urban Decay 24/7 line, and I honestly don't think anything will ever come close to UD's level of awesomeness.  I also don't wear a lot of black eyeliner, but it is definitely a Classic Beauty staple.  

Swatch of Starlooks Kohl eye pencil in Obsidian

This swatched really nice for me, and was very blendable.  Because I have hooded eyes, eye pencils have to have a good sense of permanence, or I get major transfer.  I tried this out for a day, and was surprised by how well it did- no creasing or transfer!  I'll definitely add this to my rotation, to when I feel like using a pencil, and not liquid or gel.  While I was hoping for the liquid liner, this is a nice liner with a good formula, and I am not disappointed.
Grade: 4/5

It's So Big volumizing mascara by Elizabeth Mott, deluxe sample size (4 ml), retail value approx. $7.99, available HERE.  Full size (10 ml) retails for $19.99.  Discount code IPSYBIG will earn you 50% off of your purchase, until 10/30/13.

Mascaras.  We all have a TON.  I currently have THREE open tubes that I try to rotate, although I've been using Benefit's They're Real! the most (my Lash Bash is Saturday- do you blame me??!!)  As THIS mascara has been launched exclusively with Ipsy, I cracked this tube open and give it a try.  The first thing that I noticed is that the brush is different. I don't think I've ever seen a brush with a shape like this- sort of like an hour glass.  I gave this a try, and really, really liked it!  The formula and brush did amazing things to my lashes.  This mascara is super buildable, and I had NO spider eyes, and only minimal raccooning late in the day (SO normal for me).  I will definitely be using this on the regular!
Grade: 5/5

That's all the items in my Ipsy bag, but I DO have one more item to talk about: my REFERRAL BONUS for September!

Ipsy recently revamped their referral program, and instead of getting a gift automatically for every two referrals, now you receive 250 points for each referral, and can redeem gifts for 1000 points.  Instead of getting a gift for each 2 referrals, now you need 4 referrals to earn points to get a free gift.  I saw this gem as a referral bonus option, and snapped it right up, redeeming my points like a champ!

Nyx Bronze Smoky Look Kit, full size (9.4g), retail value $12.00, available HERE.

This super cute little kit comes with 9 brown and bronze eye shadows and 2 lip colors, all in one palette with a mirror, foam applicator (ew!), and dual ended lip brush.  The lip shades and brushes pop out from the bottom and are separated from the powdery shadows- love this design!

Swatches of the Bronze Smoky Look Kit eye shadows

Swatches of the lip colors in the Kit

I love to wear colors on my eyes, but as they are blue, I am trying to do more with neutrals so that my color pops.  I gave this a try, and really liked the look that I created with it.  The shadows blended well, and looked really nice on my face.
Grade: 4.5/5

This sums up what *I* received, but we all know that it doesn't end there.  Ipsy now sends out a HUGE variety of items, and here's what I didn't receive, but other did- with pictures when available (my friends are glammies and we all get different bags!)

Butter London nail lacquer in La Moss, deluxe sample size (0.2 fl oz), retail value $7.50, available HERE.  Full size (0.4 fl oz) retails for $15.  Discount code IPSYbl will get you 30% off any purchase, until 10/31/13, one time use only, US only, and only on full size items.  

Cailyn Cosmetics Tinted Lip Balm in Candy Apple, full size (0.14 oz), retail value $19.00, available HERE.  Discount code IPSY30 will get you 30% off any purchase, until 10/15/13.

Ivory Lace Highlighter Pencil by Cella, full size (1.4g), retail value $18.00, available HERE.  Discount code Chella will earn you 20% off of any order, until 10/16/13, US and Canada only.

Jesse's Girl Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in black, full size (5 ml), retail value $6.99, available HERE.  Discount code IPSYSEPT2013 will get you 20% off your order, and US orders over $20 free shipping, until 10/15/13.

John Frieda Full Repair Full Body Shampoo, deluxe sample size (44 mL), retail value $1.16, available HERE.  Full size (250 mL) retails for $6.59.  Discount code ISPY will earn you a buy 1, get 1 50% off deal on the Full Repair items, until 10/15/13, US only, full size only.

John Frieda Full Repair Full Body Conditioner, deluxe sample size (44mL), retail value $1.16, available HERE.  Full size (250 mL) retails for $6.59.  Discount code ISPY will earn you a buy 1, get 1 50% off deal on the Full Repair items, until 10/15/13, US only, full size only.

POP Beauty Pouty Pop Crayon in either Rose Romance, Coral Crush or Fuchsia Flirt, full size (0.1 oz), retail value $4.17, available HERE in a set of 6 for $25. Discount code POPpout will get you 20% off any purchase until 10/15/13, US only. (shown here in Coral Crush)

Skyn Iceland Hydro Cool Firming Eye Gels, 2 pairs, retail value $7.50, available HERE.  Full size (8 pairs) retails for $30.00.  Discount code IPSY will get you 20% off any purchase, until 10/15/13, US and Canada only.

Victoria Jackson Brow Pencil in Taupe, full size (0.1 oz), retail value $14.95, available HERE.  Discount code IPSY13 will get you 20% off any purchase OR discount code VJFREE will get you a free foundation duo (just pay shipping), until 10/15/13, US and Canada only, not available in territories.

Ipsy September 2013 Glam Bag

Here's my bag this month- in it's entirety.  Although I still have SERIOUS bag envy, after trying everything in my bag, I really do LIKE the items I was sent.  Pretty much everything will be used- I just really wanted to try other items that I wasn't sent.  Plus the super cute blue bag has the pattern printed is a very attractive way!  

Here's the financial breakdown of this month's Ipsy items:

Items I didn't get:
Butter London nail lacquer (deluxe sample): $7.50
Cailyn Cosmetics Tinted Lip Balm (full size): $19.00
Highlighter Pencil by Cella (full size): $18.00
Jesse's Girl Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner (full size): $6.99
John Frieda Full Body Shampoo (deluxe sample): $1.16
John Frieda Full Body Conditioner (deluxe sample): $1.16
POP Beauty Pouty Pop Crayon (full size): $4.17
Skyn Iceland Hydro Cool Firming Eye Gels, 2 pairs: $7.50
Victoria Jackson Brow Pencil (full size): $14.95

Items I DID receive:
Freeman masks (set of 3): $5.97
Nyx Eyeshadow single (full size): $4.50
J. Cat Beauty Lipstick (full size): $2.49
Starlooks Kohl Eye Pencil (full size): $12.00
Elizabeth Mott mascara (deluxe sample size): $7.99
Nyx Bronze Smoky Look Kit (full size): $12.00
Total value of my Ipsy bag this month: $44.95
Out of pocket, shipping included: $10.00

Ipsy is like the lottery- you can't win every time you play, but it sure is fun!  I'm hoping for a dream bag next month.  This month wasn't a home run, but it was definitely a base hit, or a triple score.  Don't subscribe to Ipsy?  What are you waiting for?  Give them a try- it's the best $10 gamble around!

Tell me, did YOU like your Ipsy bag this month?  What would YOU have liked to receive?

 

Disclaimer: This review is solely my opinion, on a product I paid for with my own money my husband's money.  I have not been compensated for this opinion in any way, and it is my honest thoughts on the products listed above.  The referral link in this post is one where I would receive credit for a referral, and be compensated with free product for referring 2 people. Here is a link that just goes to Ipsy, without my referral code. Links to vendor's sites are not referral or compensated links.  I strive for honesty :)

Ipsy (MyGlam) June 2013 Review

Hi, everyone!  I know, it seems like you all have been waiting a lifetime for this month's Ipsy review, and I am SO SO sorry!  My church's VBS is this year (Vacation Bible School for those of you who aren't in the know), and as the VBS Director, I've been really really busy getting everything ready!  As it's now the night before VBS, I have a few spare moments, and wanted to get my sadly neglected blog up to speed with my June Ipsy review!

For anyone who doesn't know, Ipsy is a beauty subscription service that costs $10 a month (plus shipping in Canada, and tax in a few states), and sends out 4-5 full size or deluxe samples of beauty products each month.  I've had fairly good luck with Ipsy, and I really think that anyone who tries it would like it.  It's kind of like gambling $10 each month- but you are guaranteed to get something (even if you don't like it).  If you would like to give Ipsy a try, please use my referral link here- two referrals and I receive a special gift from Ipsy in my bag.


Ok, on to the good stuff.

The pink mailer of awesomeness.

I always love seeing these pink mailers in my mailbox- even when I see spoilers, I always squee like a little girl!

First look

Here's a little teaser shot of the inside of my envelope- is that leopard print I see?

On the Wild Side

June's theme is On the Wild Side.  I think I approve, but am really curious what products I will get in this bag!

The offers

I love how Ipsy's insert cards always list what companies they are working with each month, and what the discount is.  Looks like a big crop of coupon codes this month!

The bag.

I've never been a HUGE fan of animal prints, BUT- this bag is SUPER cute!  This is my new coin purse in my pocketbook.  

I'm loving me some lime green right now! (and rocking some awesome giraffe print nails, by the way!)

I'm going to start with the items that everyone received, to try to make it simple.  The first thing I pulled out of my bag is...

J.Cat Sparkling Cream Palette in Volta, full size (3g), retail value $4.49.  Available HERE; coupon code LOVEIPSY will earn you 25% off any order, until 7/15/13

A sparkle palette!  I love sparkles, and these colors would make great eye shadows.  Wait, wait wait- what's that you say?  These AREN'T eye shadows? 

That's funny- looks like eye shadow to me!

Then why the little foam applicators that I hate?  What on earth could this be used for?  Ok- all kidding aside- do NOT use this on your eyes- their website says to use caution around the eye area, and there have been people posting on Ipsy's facebook page about getting the glitter under their contacts.  Translation: bad news for the eyes.  

Swatches of the Volta palette: the top swatches are the glitter on top of the cream, the bottom swatches is where I dug under the glitter and mixed it with the cream.

I honestly don't have a LOT of practical ideas for this palette, but then again, who says that makeup has to be practical?  I am going to use this for face paint at our VBS carnival this coming Sunday, and I'm happy to have found a use for it.  I did have another idea for it though, if I ever decide to go clubbing any time soon (yeah, right- two kids and no sitter.  Clubbing is just a pipe dream):

tattoo enhancement

Ok, yes, I have a tattoo.  Yes, I love it, and I helped design it.  If you look closely, you can see my oldest's daughters' name in the veins on the wings (Kathryn).  I asked her to use the glitter to enhance the design, and I think it turned out really great, and not a bad idea for a night out!

GRADE: 2/5 highly impractical and could mess up my eyesight.  Not good.

Starlooks lip liner pencil in Tipsy, full size (2.4g).  Available HERE, retail value $12.  Coupon code IPSY will get you 35% off any order, until 7/15/13.

The next item that everyone was to receive is a lip liner from Starlooks.  I have NEVER bought a lip liner in my life, so I was excited to give this a try.  Sadly, the color was a little off for my skin tone:

Swatch of Tipsy

I might try to use this for an ombre lip at some point, and it is a super creamy  texture and feels nice on my lips.  Ipsy gets points for quality, just not for color in my case.  On another note, Starlooks has their own subscription box- maybe I'll give that a try!

GRADE: 4/5

Nyx pressed powder blush in Spice, full size (.18 oz).  Available HERE; coupon code IPSY15 will earn you 15% off any purchase, or code IPSYCHEEKS will earn you 40% off Tango with blushing powder, until 7/10/13.  Retail value $5.00.

The final item that everyone was to receive is a blush from Nyx.  I've heard greats things about Nyx products, but don't really own many, so I was excited to receive this.  The blush I received is in the shade Spice, a pretty matte mauve.  This shade looks great on my cheeks, and I really, really love it!

Swatch of Spice by Nyx

There were a couple different types of blush sent out, and I'm really glad I received the pressed powder- I don't do well with creams, but I would have loved to try our the mosaic blush- I'm really really happy with this!

GRADE: 5/5

The following items are the ones *I* received, but there were a couple different options that other had in their bags that I did not get.  I'll list those at the end, as best as I can.

Chella Ivory Lace highlighter pencil, full size (1.4g); available HERE.  Coupon code GLAMBAG will get you 20% off your order, until 7/15/13.  Retail value $18.00.

I received the Chella highlighter pencil, and I'm so glad I did!  This pencil is super creamy, and has amazing staying power.  I use it on my waterline, as it's too close to my natural skin color to be an effective highlighter (at least, until I get my deep summer tan going on!)

Swatch of Ivory Lace highlighter pencil from Chella

I've never used any products from Chella before, but I will definitely be checking out their website now to see if they have anything else that's worth a try!

GRADE: 4/5 (can't use as intended, but still works great!)

J.Cat Eyelashes + Eyelash Glue, no. UN13, full size; available HERE.  Coupon code LOVEIPSY will get you 25% off your order until 7/15/13. Retail value $3.99.

I absolutely LOVE lashes, seriously.  I have tiny, stubby lashes, and falsies make me look a little more human.  I usually cut lashes down into demi size, and just apply to the corner of my eyes, but occasionally wear full size lashes.  I gave the J.Cat lashes a try, and really loved them!  They looked very natural on, applied very easily.  I'm not sure I'm crazy about the lash glue, though- maybe I just didn't put enough on the inner corners, but they came unattached rather quickly.  I did like that that glue is black, though- it blended with the lashes well, but I would need to use clear glue if I wanted to wear my usual colored eyeliner.

Lashes on!

GRADE: 4/5

I received a BONUS item in my Ipsy bag, as a thank you for having TWO referrals during the month of May.  I receive a bracelet from BaubleBar.

BaubleBar bracelet, gold and white.  Approximate retail value $20.

My best friend "Shelby" loved it, I gave it to her for an early birthday present.    The bracelet came with a coupon code for $15 off a purchase of $40 or more.  I checked out BaubleBar's website and couldn't find this bracelet anywhere, so it's possible an Ipsy exclusive.  I don't quite understand the "o" ring design- is this a fashion trend that I'm not very familiar with?  At any rate, it's gold-tone jewelry, and I only wear silver, so I'm happy that I was able to make Shelby smile.  That earns a 5/5 grade any day.

GRADE: 5/5

OTHER ITEMS I DID NOT RECEIVE
Other Ipsy subscribers received different items, based on their beauty profiles.  I would have LOVED to try out these products, but I'm pleased with what I did receive, so no hard feelings!  If you don't care to read about the items I did NOT receive, keep scrolling until you get to the pictures of my bag :)

Cailyn Line Fix gel eyeliner with brush, in Iron or Purple, full size.  Available HERE; coupon code ipsy30 will earn you 30% off any order until 7/10/13.  Retail value $21.00
Ok, I am on a no buy for a couple more weeks (yes!), but I seriosuly wanted to try out this liner.  I LOVE gel liner, and really want a good purple one!  Congrats to girls who received this, and if you did and DON'T like it, send it to me for some GOOD KARMA!!!  


Psssst! The True original dry shampoo by Freeman Beauty, deluxe sample size (1.76 oz), available HERE.  Coupon code IPSY33 will get you the Super Hero Hair Duo set with bonus for $13.98 until 8/31/13 (US residents only). Full size () retails for $6.99 for 5.3 oz; this deluxe sample has a value of $2.32

My June 2013 Glam Bag

It's time for my monthly recap of my Ipsy bag, where I show you the retail value of each item, and total my bag.  I'll list all of the items from Ipsy, and then just total my bag- hopefully this will make it easier for everyone to see the true retail value of their own bags, even if they are different from mine.  I WILL say, the ACTUAL value of each bag is different- if you receive items you already know you don't like, or won't ever use, definitely don't have a value to count!  I try to use everything, or at least test it- knowing that I DON'T like something can be as valuable as knowing that I DO!  Ok, enough rambling...here's the breakdown:

J.Cat Palette: $4.49
Starlooks lip liner: $12.00
Nyx blush: $5
Chella highlighting pencil: $18.00
J.Cat eyelashes + eyelash glue: $3.99
Baublebar Bracelet: $20(my best estimate)
Cailyn eyeliner and brush: $21.00
Psssst! Dry shampoo: $2.32

Total retail value of my bag: $63.48 ($43.48 if you don't count the bracelet)
Total out of pocket: $10
Whoo hoo!  I received a great bag (but not the highest retail value one, but it's totally ok!)!  I'm really happy with what I received, and can't wait to receive my July bag!

So, tell me, what did YOU receive from Ipsy this month?  Did you like what you received, or is it off to the trading boards you go?  Leave me a comment and let me know!

Thanks for sticking with me this month, y'all, and again, I'm so sorry it took me SO long to get this post up!  Hopefully things will slow down really soon, plus I have A BIG surprise in the works for you all- stay tuned, and stay average :)

 

Disclaimer: This review is solely my opinion, on a product I paid for with my own money my husband's money.  I have not been compensated for this opinion in any way, and it is my honest thoughts on the products listed above.  The referral link in this post is one where I would receive credit for a referral, and be compensated with free product for referring 2 people. Here is a link that just goes to Ipsy, without my referral code. Links to vendor's sites are not referral or compensated links.  I strive for honesty :)