2 New Bags within 2 Weeks...

I think I need to stop buying.

Actually, I don't even think I should be blogging NOW. When I have a midterm, an assignment due AND a project to work on (among all things). A girl just needs some downtime to share her happiness though, no?

I've been meaning to puchase a Longchamp Le Pliage and/or a Le SportSac for awhile...wanted some of that lightweight nylon for school/travelling. I actually decided to go for the Longchamp, and guess what?

A Tokidoki Le SportSac popped up when I was least expecting it.

I used to shop at Winners (Like Kohl's in the U.S.? Basically different brands send their 'ends' there for discounted prices) when I was in elementary-middle school. Early on, my mother taught me the importance of getting good quality/brands for a fraction of the price. Well, I've barely gone since, and at my recent stop at Winners, not only did I find out they carried designer brands (which I'm sure most of you know by now), but they also opened a new and improved beauty department!

So, I left with an Adios Star BV Tote, a Carita Paris cleansing milk, and a huge bottle of Decleor Paris cleansing water...all for less than $200.

My second bag arrived today! I've been eyeing the Gerard Darel 24 hr. St. Germain bag for ages....and it's mine now! I'm a bit disappointed though...I was expecting it to be bigger, with smoother/squishier leather....the interior was not that nice too. I was expecting more for a 300 Euro bag. *sigh* It smelled funky too, not the type of leather smell that I usually like...I guess when you have 'high hopes', you'll also get disappointed more easily.

Well, no more bags for the rest of the year! That is my goal.

*winks* that means I only have to wait 2 more months....

P.S. Pics will come later...can't find my camera!

Happy Halloween?

Ok..so this post is not related to fashion or deals or anything of the like. My family hasn't passed out candy in a few years...so I decided to be nice and give out some candy this year! However, since I wasn't home, I put some candies in a jack-o-lantern plastic bucket (remember the one from McDonald's?) and put it outside on the window ledge so people can take some. I trust that humans are good and so left it there happily this morning.

When I came back just now, not only did all the candy disappear (which is a good thing), but MY PRECIOUS PUMPKIN BUCKET is gone too!. Ahhhh I should've known not to put something so cute outside...but I didn't believe how GREEDY people could be. I'm already giving you free candy and you take my bucket too?!?! My parents actually did this before when I was little...and we even got candy in return! Fast forward 10 year later to 2007....they take everything.

GAH! Kids these days just aren't like what they used to be.

Ok..rant over.

Hope you all had a fun halloween! I saw some pretty funky costumes today (Sailor, Clown...Cow..hahaha)!

Moral of the story: Short and simple. Please don't be greedy :)

Pic from x-entertainment (it's not x-rated....i googled mcdonalds pail to land there).

Forever21 Canada Deals

Ok...so Forever21 opened in Toronto awhile ago...I'm sure most of you know that.

They also have the "Uptown Dress" as their "Brilliant Buys" for $15.50 CAD. Ok.. GREAT DEAL! YES!...I thought it was just an online exclusive thing (yes..I know that was not stated on the site...i ASSUMED which means I made an as-...never mind...). It's NOT!. They actually have this deal in stores. Unfortunately, this notice is a bit late as all the colours and sizes are picked over.

I think they only have black left..and no more smalls..but otherwise, they still had a big rack of these left.

SO hurry up and snatch one!...or you can wait until the next bargain buy and be assured that they'll have it in store. (Cos I hate buying online..don't know about you.)

Also, for those who DO like online shopping. Take advantage of their 20% off with $50+ purchase promo for the new opening of the Canadian online store. With shipping charges...it comes to be about the same as buying it in store...but at least you'll get your size and colour. (No coupon code required, once you hit over $50, the discount will apply).

Forever 21 Canada site

A Solution for Dry Skin?

Dry, itchy, sensitive skin? I think it runs in my family or something...unfortunately.

I got the Skin MD Natural lotion awhile ago...but a product junkie like me sometimes has too many different creams lying around the house that I totally forgot about it!

Thankfully, as I was clearing up my desk, I found this....and boy, am I ever glad I did! I hate the greasiness of body butters even though they're excellent moisturizers...love the fast absorbing, lightweight properties of a lotion but it doesn't seem to be moisturizing enough. Can you say picky? Many lotions that are scented and smell wonderful at first...but by the end of the day you can get this 'icky' smell.

Skin MD Natural shielding lotion is different. It's texture is light and serum/emulsion like which means super fast absorption...and it works!. I looked at the list of ingredients and found all the main ingredients to be natural skin soothers like Aloe Vera, Vitamin E and Arnica. I love how it's unscented. It can also be used on the face, hands and body. Gotta love a multi-tasker!

I have to admit...the first time I used it, it didn't seem that special aside from being perfect for sensitive skin. My skin is not that sensitive (just dry on the legs and elbows) so I gave it to my mom. Sometimes, it's not about the packaging, advertising or lots of fancy frills. This is genuinely a good product, and the more you use it, the better the effects (over time).

So if you've tried every lotion out there and are still seeking the perfect, lightweight supermoisturizer...perhaps give this one a shot.

Read how it works here.

Esprit and Lacoste Shoes Warehouse Sale

Need I say more? (oh..and click image to enlarge.)

I won't be checking it out though as neither brands interest me enough to push through crowds...but I heard that the prices for the Lacoste shoes aren't bad (if you find your size).

This or That?

Sorry for the lack of updates! Crazy busy w/ school, work, and some extra tasks. Doesn't help that I also got into a car accident last weekend...but I'm thankful cos I'm still in once piece. No broken bones, no nothing...just a little strain here and there.

Anyways, I took pictures of some of my loot from my trip to the States...but I can't seem to locate them on the computer....

SO.....I've decided to ask for some help from readers instead.
YSL 'White Gold' Lip palette.....vs....Dior 'DiorLight' lipgloss pendant...

I've started collecting the limited edition makeup from Dior ever since the release of the Princess Ring....but I'd like to branch out since I've never tried YSL makeup (besides touche eclat)...

Any suggestions on which one to get? (And no...I can't buy both.)

Oh decisions!

source: nordstrom.com

BeautyBridge.com & 10% OFF!

Ok..enough of Sephora. We all go there and we love the selection they give us. However, there are many other sites and boutiques that carry brands we love with great promotions and offers!

One of these is beautybridge.com. Besides this site, they also have a boutique spa store, which means that they sell lots of products that may only be found in dermatologist offices and spas. They also carry the the whole lot of skincare, makeup, bath and body goodies, fragrances, tools/accessories and mmmmm...scented candles!

I especially love the fact that they stock a lot of quality brands that you can't find elsewhere like Lippmann nailpolish, favourites like L'Occitane, Dermalogica, Sothy's...and lots of other indie brands that I've never heard of...but am looking forward to try.

Of course...being the deal hunter that I am, freebies and promotions are a MUST to attract me to buy something. Beautybridge has just that. FREE U.S. ground shipping w/ any order! (that's right..no minimum purchase required!). Canadian shipping starts at $6.95...not bad huh? They also offer free samples when you make a purchase and have a regular promotions section and weekly offers section to scoop out on deals.

New customers also get 5% off their first order which is fantastic...but.....

since I love my readers and the people at beautybridge are great...you can now get 10% OFF for the rest of the month (October) with the coupon code save10. This is not promoted on the website..so consider yourself special :)

Happy shopping!

More budget make-up sets from Sephora...

Happy Thanksgiving fellow Canadians! I already had my share of turkey w/ stuffing and gravy last night and woke up with looking a bit pudgy -_-. Anyhow, thinking about clothing just isn't fun when I can barely squeeze myself into my favourite pair of straight legged Miss Sixty's so...I decided to browse through makeup instead.

As you may recall, I love purchasing makeup sets because of the trial sized products (often best sellers) and the appealing price tag it comes with. Being a product junkie, I won't feel guilty about spending less while wasting less product when I toss it aside. Being in Canada, we don't have a CCO (Cosmetic Company Outlet) like the States does and warehouse sales are rare or packed.

Here are some of the sets I want to pick up:

1. Smashbox "Try Me" Set (pictured above) includes the famous primer, clear lipgloss, undereye brightener, palette containing the brow tech shades/wax, cream eyeliner, brush and instructional dvd. It's listed as $29 USD...so I assume it would be around $35 or less in Canada. However, I didn't see it in store yet.


2. Urban Decay-Best Of Urban: Midnight Cowboy Rides Again set
This is one set I'm getting for sure! I've always wanted to try the Primer Potion and glittery liquid eyeliner! The brown pencil with gold sparkles and shimmery gold eyeshadow is perfect for any skintone! $38 CAD at Sephora.
3. Shu Uemura Perfect Eye Set contains the famous Shu curler, Precise Volume mascara and an eyeliner pencil. The Shu curler is the newly redesigned one (not quite sure of the difference) and I absolutely love their mascara, even though it's a bit pricy. It's $59 USD...hopefully they'll carry this in Canada too.4. Tarte-We Wish You Health Skininvigorating Discovery Kit
This is marked as $38 USD and contains the Clean Slate primer, Lock and Roll creasless eyeshadows w/ Vit. E, an Inside Out Gloss (totally want to try this as it contains Borba vitamins...but does that mean I'm supposed to lick my lips when I have it on?) and the well known Light, Camera, Lashes mascara. Too bad it doesn't contain a mini cheekstain, that would be the perfect addition to this set.

Source: Sephora.com

P.S. New layout for my return! lol..sorry, don't know how to actually create my 'own' layout.

I'm back! hopefully for longer this time...

After disappearing for a few months....I have decided to start this again. I don't even think people check this blog anymore:P but then..i suppose it's not that old of a blog either. Lots of personal things happened, and blogging just wasn't my priority. I hate to say that I prefer to read rather than write..it gets rather stressful at times as I feel obligated to post regularly. Doesn't help that my computer was down and taken to fix..for....a long while. I survived w/o internet at home..and only managed to sneak onto it at work (which we aren't allowed to do...eek!)

To any readers out there though...I'm VERY SORRY. Hopefully that won't happen again, or at least I'll leave a notice before I'm MIA.

Anyways, since the the purpose of me blogging is to keep a record of my buys/wants and to provide any lovely readers w/ a good deal...this post will not be without either one of them!

Freebies/Deals:
1) Go to the beauty counter at your local SDM (Shopper's Drug Mart) to receive a generous 5ml sample of Vichy's new AqualiaThermal moisturizer. No purchase necessary!

2) If you haven't already done so, run to the Sears nearest you in hopes of scoring some Dior products for 20%off. Dior is pulling their products out of Sears, so everything from skincare, makeup to fragrances is ALL ON SALE! I know the Eaton Centre counter has already closed though.

...that's it for now. I just don't have the time nor energy to keep scouring the web/flyers anymore for good deals. *sigh* You can't win 'em all.

On a happier note...I went on a little shopping spree in the U.S. during the summer...so I'm already excited to share my buys! (All fantastic deals of course!) However, I need to photograph them...so that won't come until later.

Are YOU excited? (probably not...*giggles and runs off*)


Source: http://sklep.apteka-cito.pl

2 Deluxe Samples at Sears Clinique (with Jockey purchase?) until June 1

Wow. Clinique just keeps on giving freebies and GWP's don't they. Very generous! Unfortunately for me, I'm overstocked with both skincare AND makeup. Don't need any more...even if it's free. Don't feel like taking the time to go to the counter, getting a consultation, all that just for a freebie either.

Also, apparently there was also a freebie bag from Estee Lauder@ the Bay where you get samples of skincare in a cute little bag. That was about a week ago or so. If you're at the Bay, check it out to see if there's any left :) I heard it was a good one...but again, no time to check it out.

Oh, and Happy Victoria Day Canadians!
Enjoy the day off tomorrow...and enjoy your freebies if you manage to get 'em. :)

pics/info from sears.ca

Underrated Beauty: Camilla Belle

Fashion/Style icons typically revolve around celebrities. Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, Brigitte Bardot are classic icons. Nowadays, it's kinda hard to find a modern style icon since very few celebrities don't use a stylist. However, one young, striking beauty gets two thumbs up for NOT using a stylist, but still looking gorgeous at most, if not all events.

Camilla Belle. Most might know her from the thriller "When a Stranger Calls". Others might recognize her from the Miu Miu ads she did with Kim Basinger or the Vera Wang Princess ads. She's been in a lot of movies in her younger days (but I didn't know her then :P). She knows what she looks good in whether it is something young and colourful, graceful & ladylike, or chic & sophisticated. I love how she can look both young and fresh and mature depending on the event. Her thick eyebrows give her character and set her apart from all the other blue eyed blondes in Hollywood.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe this silver dress is by Fendi, as I remember seeing ads of it. I was not impressed by the model wearing it in the ad...but Camilla makes it look so 'cool' here. It's futuristic, yet glam at the same time!
This bright blue Oscar de la Renta dress with pockets is fitting for both her age and a daytime event. The silver Miu Miu shoes were kinda unexpected to go with a dress like this, but together, it looks fabulous.Here she is in another Oscar de la Renta dress. It's kinda cutesy but she looks great in it. I think dark haired girls look beautiful in red. Hilary Swank is also seen wearing this dress on the cover of an issue of In Style magazine this year. However, I think Camilla pulls it off better :)

The dress she wore at The Costume Institute Gala this year has been a hit or miss according to different people. The dress is Gaultier Paris Haute Couture. It's very goddess like IMO. It's actually quite refreshing to see someone who's actually covered up! Finally, a dress that's not strapless, halter, spaghetti strap, plunging neckline or backless. It's not my favourite, but I do like the unique factor of it.
Slightly more casual as this was taken at a Club Monaco event. The jacket is so elegant! I love how she makes the simplest pieces look so good.Something a bit different from all those gowns/cocktail dresses. I think this dress is by Chloe and the shoes are Prada.

It's too bad there aren't many candid photos of her as I'd love to see how her 'casual' style is. I definitely think she dresses in a unique and classy way, based on her fashion choices on the red carpet, fashion show and events unlike *cough* LiLo *cough*. That, or it could be her striking features or her long and lean figure.

Either way, this is a young Hollywood star that I feel has been underrated in terms of her striking looks and fashion sense. What do you think of Camilla Belle's style? What other celebrity do you feel has been underrated in terms of style & beauty?

Shopping Addict Sample Sale (SASS) May 23-26

Click to view larger images. As usual, it's at their 129 Spadina Ave. store. Check out their website for more details www.shoppingaddicts.ca

School's Out! :D

I finished my FINAL exam early this morning, and to celebrate, I did a bit of shopping (again...cos this IS "Keep on Shopping")!

Purchased this soft sea green cotton Juicy Couture baby doll cami at 75% off. I promise you I'm not a fan of juicy...(I admit I have one of their 'signature' hoodies)...but some of their stuff that doesn't have a huge "JUICY" emblazoned on it look quite nice. I found the neckline quite flattering. The double spaghetti straps make this cami a bit more special than a regular high street store one.

Here is the back view where you see the typical elastic backing that many Juicy shirts have. I do like the pleated effect at the back though.

I adore Mike&Chris stuff for simple reasons. I love wearing plain tees, tanks, zip ups and jeans...but it tends to get a bit boring. THIS though, is casualwear with a twist! I already own a cropped hoodie from Mike&Chris, and adding to my collection is this Cody vest in dark, forest green. I dunno why it looks black in the pic...but for 80% off, it's cheaper than buying through online stores! It's still kinda hard to justify paying $200+ for this....but I won't complain when it's on sale.
Yes...this is a plain ol' wifebeater tank in plain ol' gray. This is a staple in my closet though. I own these tanks in different colours, patterns and brands. They're great to wear under (cardigan/jacket), over (tee or dress shirt), AND out (just by itself). You can even layer them..but I'm sure you all know that. Anyways I usually buy the high street store ones (Old Navy, Zara, TNA, Club Monaco etc.) but I've picked up 2 James Perse tanks in the past 2 months. A neon green one (perfect for summer) and this basic neutral one, both at 75% off.
Alright, I know what you fashionistas are thinking. Yes, this is an AE polo. It fits great and the bright orange is unique. I don't see many people in ORANGE these days. Beats me why all the previous AE customers have gone over to Hollister and Abercrombie...they're all the same to me. In fact, AE is cheaper AND you can actually see what you're buying because they turn on the lights! Maybe I'm just biased though cos I was an AE fan in high school ( I don't wear head to toe though..so I never looked like a beachy kid). Anyways, I should stop talking because I do have a hollister sweater and an A&F tshirt :P Not that I'm a fan...but they were on sale and gd basics y'know? =_=
Isn't he adorable? He was all alone and surrounded by 20 Chicken Littles, 1 Flounder, and a bunch of Cinderella mice. He was only $2.99, but I would've adopted him either way XD (This is Roo from Winnie the Pooh btw...).

John Masters Organics @ Blossom Beauty

After some studying at Starbucks today, I walked into Blossom, the bath and beauty store, just browsing randomly since I haven't shopped there in a long time.

My browsing turned into another small spree when I saw all the 50% off signs in the back.

I spent most of my time deciding what to purchase from the John Masters line. I've only heard of good things about it (and on Oprah)...so for 50% on selected skincare products, I was in heaven.

I purchased the Jojoba & Ginseng exfoliating face cleanser (pic) and French Green Clay & Green Tea Purifying mask for myself and the Linden Blossom Face Creme Cleanser for my mom (Mother's Day is coming up this Sunday guys!). I know what you're thinking, 2 items for yourself and only 1 for your mom?! I have other plans already, so the cleanser is just a bonus :)

I tried to find reviews on makeupalley, but no luck so far. I'll post my reviews when I actually get to using it...dunno when that'll be since I'm a product junkie.

Anyways, I learned more about John Masters on his site and you gotta love his philosophy:

All ingredients must meet my strict guidelines :

1. No sodium lauryl sulfate, parabens, DEAs, MEAs, or TEAs
2. No GMOs (Genetically Modified Organism)
3. No petro-chemicals
4. No animal testing
5. No artificial colors, fragrances or fillers
6. Ingredients must be as organic as possible
7. All plant extracts and essential oils must be certified organic whenever possible
8. All essential oils used must be steam-distilled and not extracted with propylene glycol - which kills the effect of the oils
9. All plant oils must be cold pressed, not heat distilled - which kills the therapeutic properties of plant oils
10. All ingredients must be proven to be beneficial to the hair or skin
11. All ingredients must be harvested in an environmentally-friendly manner (wild-crafted)
12. All ingredients must be bio-degradable as possible
13. Fair-Trade ingredients must be used when possible

Find out more at the John Masters homepage.

Also, check out the sales at Blossom Beauty where you can find products from Bloom Australia, Lola, John Masters, Philosophy, Cake, Red Flower, Cherryflip etc. for 40-50% off! There are many great Canadian brands and other brands you won't find anywhere else including Blinc's kiss me mascara.

Have fun shopping!

Gap x Rodarte Bow Top

Ok...everybody knows that the designer collaboration ( Doori, Thakoon, Rodarte) with Gap has been out for awhile. In fact, most places around the world (or is it the States only?) sold out when it first hit the shelves.

Anyways...I never really bothered looking cos:

1) I didn't know Canada would carry it
2) I don't know if it's worth it to purchase such an expensive cotton top because it's only a COLLABORATION, not the ACTUAL designer piece
3) Tons of people will flock out and purchase these tops/dresses...which means that it's not that unique anymore
4) Gap material is only ok...is it worth it to splurge on nice design, not so nice quality?

I called today, and one location still has one that MIGHT fit me...

So my question is: Should I buy it? It's $88 CAD..for a tank top...albeit a nice tank top. For those who bought it, anyone know how the sizing is? the quality of the top? is it worth the splurge?

*sigh* I need a (office) job. Would anyone like to hire me?

Pupa Cosmetics

I first learned about this brand 7 years ago, when I took a tour around Europe during my high school summer. I was in Italy, at some random shop...when I saw this cute doll like figure that opened up to several palettes of make up. Unfortunately, the one I wanted (an angel that opened up similar to the one below) was the last one and on display...so I sadly left it.
I encountered this brand recently.. (well, about a year ago) at Shoppers Drug Mart! Gotta love their new "Beauty Boutique". I love Sephora...but it's always nice to help out our local stores (Sephora is owned by LVHM...as if they're not rich enough already :P). Besides, shopping at SDM means Optimum points AND gift with purchases (which you NEVER get at Sephora).
What I love about this brand is their adorable and playful packaging. Their palette sets are especially memorable. From dolls that open up to palettes in the shape of ice cream cones and animals, Pupa cosmetics makes an awesome gift for a friend or yourself. The price is reasonable too! I mean, something that's from Milan, Italy, ALWAYS looks good as a gift.
Their body care line, Miss Milkie is absolutely amazing! It smells great since it comes in scents like vanilla, white chocolate, candy floss, sweet almond or mint and is super hydrating. The little cow on the packaging is cute too!

Canadians, check it out at SDM or Sophie Cosmetics (Times Square Richmond Hill). You'll probably be more comfortable testing and playing with the items at SDM though since service at Sophie...fluctuates...depending on the SA.
International: you can purchase online at strawberrynet.com, though the selection is rather limited.

I can't wait to try more products from the Pupa line!

For more info, check ou the Pupa website.

picture credits: Pupa, http://www.scentsationsoftroon.co.uk, strawberrynet.com

Spring/Summer Cheap Thrills

Over the past few weeks...I've shopped around and picked things up 'accidently'. I have had no intention of buying anything in particular for the past 2 months...but unfortunately(?), that's when I buy the most -_-. I used to hate H&M. When it first opened in Toronto., I would keep going in, hopint to find something, but I would never find anything I liked. I didn't find the prices all that cheap either....but looks like I changed my mind this past year. (please don't mind the random stuff in my room shown in the pics :P).
Picked up this coral empire waisted v-neck jersey dress today @ H&M. The print looks like some splattered ink dots on a coral background. On the TLC show 'What Not To Wear', coral is said to be one of the most universally flattering colours. It looks good on ANY skintone. I don't own anything coral...so this might be a good start. The empire waist is flattering for shorties like me, the knee length is great for petites (me again) and the straps are JUST thick enough to cover bra straps. SCORE at $16.90 CAD!
On my last day of classes, I took a trip down to Eaton Centre to pick up a freebie and to check out Sephora. I ended up at Urban Outfitters instead when I saw the additional 50% off sign. Not as good as March's end of season additional 75% sale...but still good. Got this sheer, floaty sleeved top for $17. I've been trying to change my wardrobe the past 2 years with a focus on more feminine tops to pair with my love of casual denim and trouser shorts. A great, colourful addition to my wardrobe since I mainly wear neutrals.
Picked this blush jersey top with black sash at H&M also. Regular price at $24.90...usually I don't buy regular priced stuff...but I just loved the length of the top, the pleats, and the slightly square neckline. The jersey material is super sheer, but comfortable. I actually hate the colour pink....but since this is so light, I'll consider it neutral XD.
My aunt bought this for me from Korea or HK...I forgot. The nude colour is nice, so are the lace accents...very romantic. However, this isn't quite my style (frilly, girly, ultra fem/cute). The bottom layers of the skirt part aren't exactly the most flattering for my problem area (thighs) either. I like it..and I do want to wear it...Anyone have any suggestions to make it look more flattering or 'cool'?
Finally...SHOE SHOPPING! One of my favourite things to do. Like my wardrobe, I've also been working on changing my shoe collection for the past few years...less sneakers and more heels and ballet flats. Picked up this pair of Louboutin-esque Aldo blue patent leather platforms for $25. Haven't worn them yet...I'm scared I won't be able to walk in them. I don't think I'll wear em much...but for $25, I'll give them a try. Just bought these 2 weeks ago and have worn them like mad! Red leather flats for $20. They also had gold...and I was so tempted to get them too, but I've always wanted a pair of red flats. I also wanted to see how comfy these were before I picked up 2 pairs. I love them! Still trying to break into them, but they're a lot more comfy than the silver ballet flats I got at Aritzia (which look exactly the same except for the bottom).

All that for just a little over $100 (minus the lace dress and tax). :D

What cheap thrills have you encountered lately?

Random Beauty Deals News

Sorry for posting so little the past 2 months or so. I hope you readers haven't disappeared yet!

Just finished my FIRST exam today =_= but I'll celebrate by announcing random beauty deals as the title says. (lame celebration, I know :P)
Maybelline Great Lash mascara is loved by make up artists, but hated but reviewers on Make Up Alley. I'm actually 'ok' with it. Not great, not bad. Good, cheap backup mascara nonetheless. Just remember that you'll spidery lashes with too many coats...keep it light with one coat or two and it's pretty natural.
Get the twin pack for $4.96 CAD at Wal-Mart. That's less than $2.50 per mascara!
Cover Girl Professional Mascara: great reviews on this one. I personally haven't tried it yet, but I plan to pick one up tomorrow. $3.99 at Shoppers Drug Mart. Also on sale for $3.99 is CG's Super Thick Lash mascara. Ugly tube, but apparently great formula.
Hurry, cos the deal ends on April 27.

It's GWP time at The Bay! As usual, spend $33 on any Lancome products and you can receive all that you see above (8-piece gift, value of $120). Offer available until May 13.
Since I've been talking about mascara...my fave from Lancome is the Hypnose mascara. It's quite expensive...and I find it hard to justify paying so much for something I toss out in 3 months...but that's what GWPs are for!Elizabeth Arden has come out with a new fragrance, Mediterranean. However, here's the catch. Puchase the Mediterranean 50ml fragrance, and receive the above set for $62. There are 2 palettes with eyeshadows and blush, 2 lipglosses, 3 lipsticks, eyeliner pencil, lipliner, makeup brush set, handbag, mini EDT etc. valued at $340.Finally, Estee Lauder is doing a GWP at Sears. Get the above set (valued at $65) with any purchase of $32 or more. I don't use Estee Lauder...so I can't really recommend anything. Their brush on illuminating concealer is a good, cheaper alternative to YSL's Touche Eclat and Dior's Skinflash though! This deal ends April 27.

Enjoy these deals while they last!

Coveting my first Tiffany piece

I've been hoping to break away from only posting about local (Toronto/Canadian) deals/freebies....though who doesn't love a good bargain? Here's another shot at targeting more personal shopping dilemmas: picking out a piece of Tiffany jewellery for myself.

I'll admit it...Tiffany's is a classic, and has been all the rage years ago when I first learned about the brand...yet I don't own a piece of this classic. Mind you, I'll emphasize the fact that I'm a non-working student...and one who much prefers to purchase something on sale. Unfortunately, classics don't go on sale. Take Louis Vuitton, Chanel...and of course, Tiffany & Co. My budget is limited...so I'm gonna stick to good ol' 925 silver pieces.These 1837 circle earrings are so cute! They look like buttons. I know they have the big logo...but it's kinda subtle since they're tiny earrings. I don't change my earrings much..so I think I'll get great use out of them..thus making the $190 CAD price tag more worth it.I've always liked the Atlas line...it's a Tiffany classic, without flashing the words "Tiffany". Most of the accessories from the Atlas line are more expensive...but this roman numeral covered die is whimsical yet elegant. The $190 CAD price tag doesn't hurt my wallet either.The Return to Tiffany line has been one of the most popular lines among young people. Could it be the clear display of the name? The low price tag? Who knows? It's classic though (despite the many knockoffs found online and in HK). Again..I don't mind the 'brand' being displayed so much...who's gonna look at my ears anyways? Especially when it's not those big, dangly earrings. $160 CAD.Again, the ever popular "Return to Tifffany" heart tag necklace. I prefer the heart over the oval and circle...cos those are just TOO tag like...I also like the pendant more than the thick chained version of the necklace that most ppl seem to have (on their necks and wrists)...that version looks too....dog tag like IMO. No offense to anyone...to me, this one is just daintier and more lady-like. Nicely priced at just $125 CAD.The ever popular non-logo design: Elsa Peretti's Open heart has been seen on everyone's necks. It's simple and classy. I love her fluid design....but I've seen tons of similar earrings like these for a fraction of the price. Is it worth the $195 CAD splurge?Elsa Peretti "Bean" pendant: I've always been interested in this piece. I'm not sure why..but I find it so funny! Something as ridiculous (well...random) as a bean being made into such a fluid and elegant design. I like it though! It's something I would like to own one day...but if I could only own ONE piece of Tiffany...I'm not sure if I'll want it to be a bean. It's different...and though subtle, it'll still make a great conversation starter.

$185 for the small; $220 for medium (shown)

Paloma Picasso Loving Heart pendant. Picasso's "X" logo is strategically incorporated into the heart shape. I like it when logos are are subtly linked into another image/design. I dunno...I don't like IN YOUR FACE logos...but unless the design is really superb...I don't see the point of spending a lot on something that's simple (like a good ol' heart, teardrop, etc.) that doesn't have a logo.
$190 small pendant (shown).

Finally...this one is totally out of my budget...but it's so pretty!
Star Lariat necklace: I love the design! This one doesn't have any jewels/diamonds so you can get it for $285. It'll look so nice with a pretty, plain coloured top/dress so that the necklace can take the spotlight! I don't think I'll have much chance to wear this...as I dress very casually on a day to day basis. There's also a heart version...but that's too cutesy/girly for me. I'd definitely get this though when I have the $ or when I have enough events that allow me dress up. I'm rational enough to not let my senses take over me....which is important for any fashionista on a budget.

I know I like too many things...but there you have it. My long list of wants. Which one should I go for? Help me choose a piece from above, or recommend another piece of jewellery. I'm very open to suggestions. I'm not sure whether I want a pendant or earrings...so if you want to, help me pick one of each. XD

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