mark. Marrakesh Collection

Cosmetics companies are really killing it with their summer collections this year. In addition to MAC's Baking Beauties and Lise Watier's India Gold (both of which I've posted about), I was recently introduced to the mark. Marrakesh Collection, inspired by one of Morocco's most historic imperial cities.

The Marrakesh Color Collection includes the Exotic Hues Eyeshadow Trio, two Nailed It Mini Nail Lacquers, and an Exotic Beauty Face Mosaic. The Exotic Hues shadows were inspired by the vibrant spices found in the city's souks and are baked for long-lasting wear (they work best used wet, in my opinion). The nail polishes come in Saffron, a glistening warm gold, and Mint Tea, a shimmering green. Both are opaque in two coats but a little streaky because they're frosts. Out of all the products, however, the Face Mosaic powder is my absolute favourite. The shades of coral, gold and bronze can be swirled together to create a radiant glow.

In addition to the Color Collection, the Marrakesh Instant Vacation Eau De Toilette Spray combines an exotic blend of Moroccan jasmine, neroli blossoms, spicy cardamom, wild fig, and crushed mint. As I'm sure you can imagine based on the description, it's a delicious and seductive fragrance that's perfect for summer. I personally love the scent though I think some people might find it too sweet and cloying.

The mark. Marrakesh collection is limited edition and available through AVON independent sales representatives, 1-800-265-AVON, or online.

Clinique A Different Nail Enamel for Sensitive Skins

Last month, Clinique introduced an innovative new line of nail polish, A Different Nail Enamel for Sensitive Skins, which is currently creating a lot of buzz in the beauty world. However, if your initial reaction is similar to mine, you're probably wondering what effect nail polish could possibly have on the skin since, as we all know, it goes on our nails.

L-R: Hula Skirt, Strappy Sandals, Summer in the City, Black Honey, Base/Top Coat

Turns out regular nail polish can be a significant allergen for people with sensitive eyes and skin, resulting in itchy, watery eyes (we touch them constantly without even thinking about it) and uncomfortable rashes. It only makes sense that Clinique, a company known for its sensitive skin products, would be behind this dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-approved nail polish formula. The result: A Different Nail Enamel, a line consisting of 12 regular polishes, 9 limited edition shades released for Summer 2013, and a combination base/top coat said to prevent chips for at least seven days.

I can't personally comment on the polish's hypoallergenic qualities, but I do think some of the summer colours I received from Clinique and Vervegirl are especially great for pedicures. I opted for Hula Skirt, my personal favourite. Under indoor lighting I initially thought this polish looked a little like OPI Mermaid's Tears but they are not dupes at all. The green is more apparent under natural light and super pretty.

I decided add a little extra sparkle by applying a second polish in a diagonal across the bottom half of my big toenails. I used Strappy Sandals, which appears to be the only metallic in the Clinique collection so far. I love the silvery finish and it applies much more smoothly than my similar Butter London Lillibet's Jubilee. I then finished up with a few nail decals from Daiso.

And that's it, sandal-ready toes! Now if only I was still in Hawaii...

Aloha, Hawaii!

It's hard to believe that less than 48 hours ago I was in Hawaii... I know I've barely even been home but I swear I'm already experiencing post-vacation beach and hot weather withdrawal! Of course, there are thankfully tons of photos to remind me of the wonderful time I had, and I will definitely be sharing a few in the next little while. In the meantime, be sure to check out my Instagram for some sneak peeks!

Dress: Urban Heritage / Bracelet: mark. (c/o) / Flower Hairpin: ABC Stores (Hawaii)