OPI Brand New Skates

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas (or other holiday-related celebration)! It's been so nice to relax, not have to worry about anything, and stuff my face with delicious food.

In the spirit of the season, I thought it would be appropriate to paint my nails one of my absolute favourite cool weather colours: Brand New Skates by OPI. This is from the 2008 Holiday in Toyland Collection and has been a staple for me ever since it came out.

You just can't go wrong with this gorgeous metallic charcoal! It's packed with lots of glitter so that it shines differently in all sorts of lighting. Brand New Skates is quite a unique colour too; I don't think there are really any dupes for it.

Application, as with most OPI polishes is also great. You can reach opacity in two semi-thick coats, though I usually do three just for good measure.

♥ Happy Anniversary

My bf and I recently celebrated our anniversary at The Observatory, a restaurant at the top of Grouse Mountain. You have to take the gondola up the mountain and on a clear night, there is a beautiful view of the city.

 Top with Lace Sleeves: Zara / Pants: 7 For All Mankind / Pumps: Steve Madden

Pashmina: gift from Hong Kong / Bangle: Marc by Marc Jacobs

The Observatory is quite small, with attentive staff and a really nice ambiance. It's the perfect place for a romantic date!

The food is also sooooo good. I had the Diamond Willow Organic Beef ($39) and Vanilla Crème Brûlée ($13) for dessert.

Address: Grouse Mountain, North Vancouver, BC

Website: http://www.grousemountain.com/Winter/dining/the-observatory/

Just a quick note to say that I got a domain name! The old address still works but from now on, my blog will also be accessible through:

www.alison-elle.com

Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm

In February 2011, Burt's Bees will be launching their new line of Tinted Lip Balm, available in a range of 6 versatile shades to suit every woman. They are 100% natural and contain vitamin E and shea butter to keep your lips soft and moisturized.

Thanks to PR, I was able to get a sneak peak at Hibiscus, a rosy pink that looks much darker than it actually applies. The product itself is very sheer but definitely gives me "my lips but better." Perfect for those simple makeup days. Plus, this stuff is yummy! A sweet and delicious pear flavour that's not overpowering at all.

Look for the adorable packaging in stores next year. I know I'll be stocking up!

Green Gradient Nails & Another FOTD

Finally got a much-needed break from the stress of finals and papers. I would so much rather be shopping for Christmas presents and relaxing! December 17 can't come soon enough...

Sheer Blouse: Zara

Jeggings: Paige Premium Denim

Boots: Aldo

In the spirit of the season I also decided to adapt my pink gradient nails with a more holiday-appropriate green colour palette. It turned out a lot better than I thought it would!

Products used: Nicole by OPI Sheer Fun; Nicole by OPI Nicole...Spotted!; Essie Sew Psyched;

Revlon Galaxy Top Coat; Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

And while I was at it with all the picture-taking, I figured I might as well do a FOTD too. I've been getting a lot of use out of my MAC Tartan Tale palette (it really does make the perfect purple-hued smoky eye).

Face:
Benefit Dr. Feelgood
Everyday Minerals Foundation in Golden Medium

Eyes:
MAC Beauties Play It Cool Palette: Silverwear, Hold My Gaze, Magic Moor, Heather Belles (reviewed here)
Sephora Eyeshadow in Alpine Snow
MAC Carbon Eyeshadow
Urban Decay 24/7 Liner in Zero
Maybelline Volum' Express Turbo Boost Mascara

Cheeks:
Rock & Republic Blush in Tease (reviewed here)
NARS The Multiple in Copacabana

Lips:
MAC Vegas Volt Lipstick

Holiday Wishlist: $$$ Edition

In the spirit of Christmas (or perhaps I should say, in the spirit of all things materialistic), I have been wasting a lot of time compiling various wishlists. I love making lists of things (makes me feel accomplished when I cross things off!), and I keep a Word Document of things I want that I am constantly updating.

This list, what I like to call the "$$$ Edition" features some of my more expensive wants - basically things I totally don't need but lust after like mad. I'm sure everyone's got at least a couple of these!

1. Chanel Classic Flap with Silver Hardware (Medium/Large or Jumbo)
I have wanted one for years and years. Wish they weren't so expensive!

2. Louis Vuitton Epi Speedy 30

3. Guccy Sukey Medium Tote (Special Edition Gucci for UNICEF)

4. Tiffany & Co. Diamond Key Necklace
So. Much. Shiny.

5. Miu Miu Matelassé Wallet
Price-wise, this is much more reasonable than the other things on this list but still a splurge considering the fact that I rarely use large wallets. But perhaps if I got one, I would be encouraged to use it all the time!