Mansa Fashion

Tag: high end

  • philosophy product review (purity, hope, and grace)

    philosophy product review (purity, hope, and grace)

    Despite the fact that Philosophy products have been around for ages (my sister was using some of their stuff back when we both used to live at home with our parents)…this isn’t a brand I have a lot of familiarity with. Beyond seeing my sister open up a Christmas gift with some Philosophy products inside, that is. So, when I won a raffle with all sorts of beauty products, it was exciting to put some Philosophy products to the test for myself. Were they good? Bad? So so? Keep reading for all the details.

    Pure Grace Nude Rose Body Lotion. The first item in this Philosophy review post is the Pure Grace Nude Rose Body Lotion. This is a sizable bottle of lotion that I have been keeping on my nightstand. I like to use the lotion on my arms, mostly because the smell makes me happy. This bottle is 480 ml/16 fl. oz. There is an awful lot of product here. I have been using it fairly regularly and it looks like I have barely touched the bottle. It’s nice to know that this is going to last, because it is something that I can see purchasing for myself in the future. The lotion is lightweight and absorbs quickly. It is not as heavy duty as some other lotions that I have (those are ideal for the ultra cold winter season) but works well and smells amazing. According to the brand, this has an “airy rose scent inspired by the bare color of nude rose petals and the clean, fresh feel of our beloved Pure Grace.” Now, I haven’t smelled Pure Grace, but if it is anything like this…I’m all in. I don’t usually care for rose scents, but this is so soft and well balanced. It smells clean and floral. Not too soapy or strong. This is supposed to have blush rose, dewy greens, neroli, bright orange flowers, cedarwood, and musk. Truly, this smells wonderful and has been making my skin smoother and my mood brighter. Something else I love? The sweet words printed on the front of the bottle. What a lovely reminder.

    Purity Made Simple Ultra-Light Moisturizer. There are a few moisturizes that I use and repurchase often: the Clinique Moisture Surge and the St Ives Timeless Skin. Both work really well for me. How does the Purity Made Simple Ultra-Light Moisturizer compare? Though it is unlikely to replace my old favourites, this is a seriously stellar product. It is described as a quick-absorbing and velvety moisturizer that is oil free and delivers 24-hour hydration without the shine. Based on my experience with the moisturizer, this works well and is nicely hydrating. It is not as thick as the St Ives moisturizer that I like best, but it still does a good job and makes my skin feel nice. Like the body lotion, the scent of this moisturizer is fantastic. I don’t know exactly what it is, but using this makes me feel like I’m being pampered somewhere special. The scent is wonderful and relaxing.

    Hope In a Jar Eye Revival Serum-in-Cream. Next is an eye serum from Philosophy that has elderberry flower and hyaluronic acid. The brand claims this product “delivers eye opening results as the eye area instantly looks smoother and more supple.” It is supposed to provide long-lasting hydration for up to 24 hours, lessen the appearance of dark circles in one week, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles in as little as two weeks. Does that happen? I can’t say for sure. The dark circles under my eyes are still there, as are the fine lines and wrinkles around them. But the serum is quick and easy to use, doesn’t have a strong scent, and makes the under eye are more hydrated. I’ve been using this for the last several weeks, but if there are suddenly dramatic results, I will be sure to mention that in an update post! For now, the results are unclear, but the product is an easy addition.

    I have really been enjoying these Philosophy products lately. I love the little sayings printed on each bottle (in a world that is so often cold and cruel, it is nice to have little reminders of goodness), the scents, and the overall quality. It is hard to believe this brand isn’t one that I have put to the test before, but the body lotion is definitely on my must-have list from this point on.

    Are you a fan of Philosophy products? What ones do you like the best?

  • shop my stash: tarte glamour eyeshadow palette

    shop my stash: tarte glamour eyeshadow palette

    The world is an interesting place these days. Quite frankly, it is hard to envision what the future will look like. That is one of the reasons I am choosing to slow down on beauty related purchases. There are still products that I have not reviewed on the creation of beauty is art. including items that loved ones have gifted me over the last little while. (Stay tuned for those posts in the weeks and months to come.) That said, it has been quite some time since I actually purchased makeup for myself. I am doing my best to focus on what I already own. The “shop my stash” idea has been around for many years and essentially means using what you already have instead of constantly purchasing more. Since there are all sorts of wonderful items in my makeup collection already, it seems appropriate not only to use those items in my day to day life, but also to post about them here. Every now and then, there will be a shop my stash post that features different products from my makeup collection. The first shop my stash post features everyday favourites and the Glamour palette from the Amazonian Clay Eyeshadow Wardrobe.

    Many of the products shown above are used on a regular basis. Before talking about the Tarte eyeshadow palette, it is important to talk about some tried and true must haves. The first is the Eyebrow Designer Brow Pencil from Essence. There are only a handful of eyebrow products that I like and this is one that continues to deliver. It is affordable, easy to use, and effective. Next is the Telescopic Mascara from L’Oreal. This is a mascara that I received in a set with two others over the holiday season – and will do a full review on in the next little while. Also pictured are the two eyeliners that I use all the time. I love the Kohl Eyeliner Pencil from Annabelle for the lower lash line and the Epic Ink Liner from NYX for a bold winged look. There is also the Clean Matte Pressed Powder from Cover Girl and the Instant Age Rewind Concealer from Maybelline. In addition, there are some often used favourites, including the Lux Lip Oil from ColourPop in the shade Team Jacob (I do not know what I will do when I run out of this stuff. It is everything) and the Born to Glow 10 Color Glow Palette from Bebe. The last item that was selected for this shop my stash post is the Glamour palette from the Amazonian Clay Eyeshadow Wardrobe from Tarte.

    The Glamour palette from the Amazonian Clay Eyeshadow Wardrobe has a lot going for it. There are all sorts of cool colours in a variety of finishes. Normally, when I reach for this eyeshadow palette, it is my instinct to use some of the beautiful shimmers. (Some favourites are Chrome, Soiree, Steel, and Rare.) Since those dazzling shimmers usually receive the bulk of my attention, it seemed only right to let some of the mattes have their moment. The main shadow used was Fringe (peachy pink matte) all over the lid. Then there was some Big City (darker rose matte) added through the crease. The shade Industrial (dark plum matte) was added for a more dramatic finish and then it was all blended out with Deco (cool brown matte). Adding in all of the other products mentioned earlier made sure the matte makeup look stood out. The cool toned grey lip oil created a nice contrast with the matte products. It was fun to use products from my makeup collection for this shop my stash inspired look.
    What beauty items have you been reaching for lately? Are you a fan of Tarte products?

  • hair product haul: haircare haven beauty bundle

    hair product haul: haircare haven beauty bundle

    The relationship with my hair has been complicated lately. Now that I am needing to dye it on a semi-regular basis (thanks to the grey hairs that have decided to take over)…there have been all sorts of frustrations. Like the medium brown hair dye that I used several months back. Despite the name “medium brown,” it turned my hair almost black. I was looking for something similar to my natural colour, but this was not at all similar, and the colour refused to fade. More recently, attempts have been made to address the dark colour, but the results have been mixed. All of the products used (like Color Oops) have left my hair feeling dry and looking a little frizzy. Thankfully, my mom gifted me the Haircare Haven Beauty Bundle for Easter. It includes all sorts of haircare products. As I continue to work on addressing the hair colour issue, it is important to focus on the overall condition of my hair as well. This post is a little show and tell to highlight the products included in this set. In the future, there will be a review of all the different haircare products. Ready to take a look inside? Here is everything that was included…

    The Haircare Haven Beauty Bundle has an assortment of products included. There are ten mini versions of popular hair related items. The items focus on volume, strength, hydration, and shine. Plus, it all comes in a neon pink waterproof pouch. I do like the pink pouch, because it can be useful for travel or just to store different beauty related odds and ends. As for the actual haircare items included, there was a nice assortment. For example, there are shampoos, conditions, hair masks, leave-in conditioners, hairspray, and dry shampoo. A little bit of everything to put to the test. The set includes the following:

    • Pattern Beauty Leave-In Conditioner (52 mL)
    • Dercos Energy + Fortifying Shampoo (50 mL)
    • CoCo & Eve Like a Virgin Hair Mark (60 mL)
    • Nuxe High Shine Shampoo (30 mL)
    • Authentic Beauty Concept Dry Shampoo (100 mL)
    • Alterna Hair Care Caviar Anti-Aging Replenishing Moisture CC Cream (25 mL)
    • Klorance Shampoo with Quinine and Edelweiss (25 mL)
    • Virtue Recovery Shampoo (15 mL)
    • Virtue Recovery Conditioner (15 mL)
    • Drybar Flexible Hold Hairspray (26 g)

    There is definitely a nice variety of products to choose from. There are also some familiar brands and brands that are new to me. Since my hair is in need of lots of TLC these days, it will be nice to put these different haircare products to the test.

    What haircare products have you been using lately? Have you tried anything included in this set?

  • does it work?? heaven’s dew all over glimmer (stila)

    does it work?? heaven’s dew all over glimmer (stila)

    What is it about glitter, sparkle, and shine? It seems impossible for me to resist a beauty product with a little pizazz. Though not all makeup is sparkly and colourful…it is nice to have those items on hand. Certain days just call for fun. (And I believe that makeup should be fun more often than not.) The Heaven’s Dew All Over Glimmer from Stila certainly falls into the fun category. It is versatile, exciting, and a wonderful way to add a little extra pop to any look. Keep reading for all the details.

    At first, my assumption was that the Heaven’s Dew All Over Glimmer was a glittery highlight. I could not wait to use it in that way. Only it turns out that this is so much more than a highlight. It can be used in many different ways: on the cheeks, eyelids, and body. It is an all over shimmer that wows. According to the brand, this is a hybrid cream and powder formula. It has a “translucent base that allows light to illuminate the suspended pearlescent shimmers and micro-fine glitters. The effect is a brilliant, hyper-lustrous look with a barely there feel. The unique, lightweight formula creates the high-shine, glistening effect of an all-over gloss – without the tackiness.” This is advertised as a dry to the touch formula that is not tacky and does not smudge. It is also supposed to be long wearing and transfer-resistant. Sparkle and shine that stays put? Sounds like a dream.

    So…does it work?? Yes. There are three different versions of the Heaven’s Drew All Over Glimmer, including a champagne shade, gold, and bronze. The one that was added to my makeup collection is the shade Silver Lake. It is a bright white shimmer. What I love about this is that it offers all of the sparkle and shine of a traditional glitter, but the micro-fine glitters mean that the texture is smooth. The glitter is not chunky or heavy. Instead, the formula is lightweight and has an almost glassy look. This is a wonderful addition to any eyeshadow look (I especially like wearing this on the brow bone for a fun pop of shimmer). It is also a great highlight. Best of all? This can also be worn on the shoulders, collarbone, arms or anywhere else you might want to add something special. The Heaven’s Dew All Over Glimmer will be a wonderful addition to my spring and summertime looks. I love the smooth texture, the fine glitters, and the versatility of the product. This looks beautiful and works really well.

    How have you been adding sparkle and shine to your life lately? Have you tried this product from Stila?

  • pros and cons: microdelivery exfoliating facial wash (philosophy)

    pros and cons: microdelivery exfoliating facial wash (philosophy)

    My skin has definitely been struggling lately. With the weather being so inconsistent, it seems that my skin is confused. Though it is normally on the dry side…it seems especially parched these days. Since I had a sample version of the Microdelivery Exfoliating Daily Facial Wash from Philosophy, it made sense to put it to the test. Keep reading for some pros and cons.

    First thing is first. What does the brand claim the Microdelivery Exfoliating Daily Facial Wash actually does? Philosophy describes this as a “30 second exfoliating mini peel” that is designed to scrub away impurities and dead skin cells. It is supposed to “alleviate dryness and rough texture,” provide gentle exfoliation, and leave you with a more even tone.
    Pros: This product certainly has some good qualities. I like that nice light scent, because it is very fresh and pleasant. I also like that my skin felt smoother and the flaking on my forehead was addressed. The Philosophy packaging is also something that I like. It is simple, but sweet. I like that is says, “Progress is made in baby steps” on the front. It is a lovely extra detail.

    Cons: Unfortunately, there were some drawbacks with the Microdelivery Exfoliating Daily Facial Wash from Philosophy. Despite having a positive experience with some of their other products ( this really irritated my skin. Though this is described as a gentle exfoliant and I was careful not to scrub too excessively, it still left my skin feeling sore and irritated for a few days. While this did work well in some ways and had some benefits, it does not seem well suited for me.

    Have you tried the Microdelivery Exfoliating Daily Facial Wash? Do you like Philosophy products?

  • does it work?? laneige bouncy and firm sleeping mask

    does it work?? laneige bouncy and firm sleeping mask

    It is nice to test out different skin care items every now and again. Especially from a brand that I have enjoyed in the past. Laneige is a brand that I am fairly familiar with, thanks to the amazing Lip Sleeping Mask. Recently, I was able to put a sample sized version of the Bouncy and Firm Sleeping Mask to the test. Does it work?? Keep reading to find out…

    What is the Bouncy and Firm Sleeping Mask from Laneige? According to the brand, this is “a visibly firming sleeping mask with peony and collagen complex that delivers both overnight and long-term benefits for visibly smooth, plump, and bouncy looking skin.” Since this is a sample size version (10 mL as opposed to the 60 mL full-sized version that is available) it is not possible for me to speak to the long-term benefits that are described by the brand. However, it is possible to speak about the short-term results and overall experience. This is supposed to addresses dryness, dullness, and loss of firmness and elasticity.

    The Bouncy and Firm Sleeping Mask has a light fresh scent. It is calming and definitely well suited for a nighttime mask. It is supposed to be applied evenly on the face, left on overnight, and rinsed off in the morning. The mask is really hydrating and has a silky consistency. It applies easily and my skin feels nice and refreshed the next morning. I have used the sample version for the last week and still have some product remaining, which is nice. As for a purchase of the full-sized version? Unlikely. The 60 mL container is $49 CDN. While I do understand that certain products can be costly, this isn’t one that I feel is an absolute must, even though it works well, smells nice, and has a smooth consistency. It’s good, but it doesn’t feel like a must have.

    So…does it work?? Yes. My experience with the Bouncy and Firm Sleeping Mask from Laneige has been a positive one. I am impressed with the quality, hydration, and overall experience. However, with a $49 CDN price point, this doesn’t wow me enough to justify a full-size purchase. Just because something is good doesn’t mean it is a beauty product need.

    Have you tried the Bouncy and Firm Sleeping Mask from Laneige? What did you think of it?

  • review: kylie cosmetics (wisp lash mascara)

    review: kylie cosmetics (wisp lash mascara)

    Over the years, many mascaras have been put to the test and reviewed on the creation of beauty is art. My all-time favourite was The Super Sizer from Cover Girl, but it doesn’t seem to be available in stores and says “Out of Stock” on the Cover Girl website. I assume it has been discontinued, because whenever I find an essential beauty item, it seems to be reformulated or discontinued. Sigh! There have been a few mascaras that have impressed since, but none as much as The Super Sizer. Recently, I was able to put the Wisp Lash Mascara from Kylie Cosmetics to the test. Curious? Keep reading for a full review…

    According to the brand, the Wisp Lash Mascara from Kylie Cosmetics delivers separation and feathery, wispy lashes without clumps, flakes, or smudges. The mascara is vegan, cruelty free, and costs $33 CDN. The packaging is sleek and simple and the wand is fairly standard. The bristles are wider on the bottom and then taper inward slightly. There is nothing groundbreaking about the design, but it does what it is supposed to do. When it comes to the actual product, there are some pros and cons, depending on your personal preferences. The pros? This mascara is ultra dark and adds instant drama to the lashes. (And I personally love a dramatic lash look.) It also lasts really well and does not smudge or flake. I wore the Wisp Lash Mascara to a concert with my husband and it stayed put flawlessly throughout the night. The mascara also adds lots of length to the lashes.

    Now for the con. Though this mascara claims to delivery separation and feathery, wispy lashes, this can actually make the lashes stick together a fair bit. It can make the lashes look clumpy and thick. Now, I will be honest and say that I kind of like that ultra thick lash look from time to time (it can be bold and dramatic and fun) but this does not meet the brand claims. Out of the Kylie Cosmetics mascaras that I have tried so far, the Kylash Volume Mascara is preferable to the Wisp Lash Mascara.

    Have you tried the Wisp Lash Mascara? What mascara are you using right now?

  • urban decay all nighter setting spray (rediscovered review)

    urban decay all nighter setting spray (rediscovered review)

    Is it possible to have beauty product nostalgia? If it is, then the Urban Decay All Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray falls into that category for me. I have so many memories from my younger years that include this setting spray. Like taking a trip to Las Vegas with my best friend at the time where we spent lots of time in the Sephora store testing out all sorts of products. Or setting my makeup for a night out with friends. Ahh…the olden days. As the years passed, different setting sprays came and went. Some were effective and others were not. It was a thrill to receive a mini version of the Urban Decay spray in the Back to School Beauty Bundle several months back. I have been getting reacquainted with this old favourite ever since.

    The Urban Decay All Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray has been around for quite some time. According to the brand, the setting spray helps to keep makeup in place for up to sixteen hours and has “patented temperature control technology….that lowers the temperature of your makeup…to lock it in place. The result? Smoother-looking skin and vibrant makeup that lasts all day (or night).” Though a lot of setting sprays make bold claims, this is one example of the claims being met. The All Nighter really does help my makeup to stay put – and keeps it looking fresh even at the end of a long day. Though there are different versions of the setting spray (Vitamin C, Extra Glow, and Ultra Matte), the original has a natural finish.

    Unfortunately for me, this sample sized bottle is not massive, and only contains 0.5 fluid ounces. For reference, the full-sized version is 4 ounces and costs $49 CDN. It was seeing the price that made me remember why other setting sprays slowly made their way into my makeup routine instead. Sometimes, it is hard to justify the high price points, even if a product really is stellar. Rediscovering the All Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray has been an absolute delight, even though the price means I am unlikely to purchase a full-sized version in the near future. My hope is that this little bottle will last a little longer.

    Have you tried the All Nighter Setting Spray? What setting spray do you like best?

  • too faced: hangover replenishing face primer (review)

    too faced: hangover replenishing face primer (review)

    It was several months back that the Back to School Beauty Bundle was posted here on the creation of beauty is art. The mini backpack included all sorts of makeup and skin care items…and even a mini Ariana Grande perfume! Over the last little while, these beauty products have been put to the test. That means it is time to start sharing some reviews. This one is dedicated to the Hangover Replenishing Face Primer from Too Faced. This is a brand that I am very familiar with. I have tried all sorts of products from Too Faced over the years and tend to like their cute themes and colours. That being said, this face primer was new to me. Find out how it performs and if a full-sized version will be added to my Sephora cart in the future.

    The version of the Hangover Replenishing Face Primer in the beauty set has 20 mL of product and the full-sized version has 40 mL, so there was a good amount of product included in the sample. The down side is that according to the Sephora website, it costs $57 CDN for the full-sized version of the primer. So…what is the product actually supposed to do? It is described as a “replenishing face primer that hydrates, smooths, and brightens for a dewy, healthy-looking complexion.” This is one of the rare times when all of the product claims seem to be met. At least in my experience with the product. This liquid primer goes on clear and instantly makes my skin feel more hydrated. After about thirty seconds or so, it starts to have a tackier finish, which is ideal for applying foundation. I really love the Hangover Replenishing Face Primer. It works well with my dry skin, makes makeup application smoother, and the product even smells good. It really checked off all the boxes for me. I have a few Sephora gift cards in my wallet (thanks to generous Christmas gifts from loved ones) and I want to use them to purchase a full-sized version of this primer. Though the price is really high…this is ideal for my skin type. Until I can find something that works as well and is more affordable, this is something that I would like to splurge on from time to time. It really wowed!

    Have you tried the Hangover Replenishing Face Primer from Too Faced? What primer do you like to use?

  • review: morphe rose to fame artistry palette

    review: morphe rose to fame artistry palette

    One of my New Year’s Resolutions is to use more of what I have and to purchase less, especially when it comes to beauty products. Though this is not necessarily easy to do (since new products are always tempting and because loved ones often gift me different items to put to use) it is something that I am attempting at any rate. That means there will be some reviews on the creation of beauty is art. in the next little while dedicated to products that have been in my collection for a bit, but have not yet been formally reviewed on the blog. One such example is the Rose to Fame Artistry Palette from Morphe. This is something that I purchased at Sephora many, many, many months ago and have been using on and off ever since.

    There were three different Rich and Foiled Artistry Palettes to choose from: Gold Seeker, Going Platinum, and Rose to Fame. Since I have a weakness for rose gold colours and warm neutrals, it was the Rose to Fame version that stood out to me. Truth be told, it was that center shade in the palette that really stood out to me. According to the brand, it is a “debut foil-effect Molten Metal Eyeshadow” that can be used dry or wet for a different finish. There are nine eyeshadows in total, with a combination of mattes and shimmers – that that molten metal eyeshadow in the center. I like that there is a nice amount of variety and that it is possible to create a dazzling but neutral eyeshadow look. Something that I like about this eyeshadow palette is that there is a disposable little instruction sheet inside to explain how to use the molten metal eyeshadow either wet or dry. It states that it can be used dry for a creamy effect or wet for an enhanced liquid effect. Having used the center shade both ways, it is certainly more dramatic when applied wet. It has that bold liquid metal look (similar to what the Makeup by Mario Master Metallics Eyeshadow Palette offered) as opposed to appearing like a fairly standard shimmer.

    Clearly, the center eyeshadow is a standout in this Morphe eyeshadow palette. As for the rest of the shadows? Some are more impressive than others. The matte shades perform well and blend nicely and Aristocratic Aura (dark chocolate brown) is a real standout. The shimmers are a little more uneven. For example, Nepo Beige-y is pretty and has a nice amount of sparkle, but not a lot of colour. It is more of a topper than something that would be worn alone. The other shimmers are more impressive, especially Budding Fortune, which has lots of shimmer and colour. Generally speaking, my preference is for shimmery eyeshadows to not only offer shimmer, but colour payoff as well. I believe in an eyeshadow that can do it all! Overall, the Rose to Fame Artistry Palette from Morphe is decent. The molten metal eyeshadow is fabulous and there is a nice combination of matte and shimmer to choose from. However, it would be nice if the shimmers all performed equally in terms of colour payoff.

    Have you tried any of the Rich and Foiled Artistry Palettes