I always get anxious and excited for Summer makeup collections especially those from MAC. Last year they wow'ed me when they released Neo Sci Fi/Solar Field and I literally went bonkers at the store and bought every single item, and this year they have certainly met the expectations and have wow'ed me once again with this Summer's featured release, Style Warrior.

Now, I'm sure you've already seen glimpses, swatches and product photos (and if not, I've included some in this post) but after playing with items from the collection and giving the product a new home (aka my vanity); I'm here to shed some spotlight on why this collection stands out more than MAC's more recent and soon to come collections...

• Packaging: This one is an obvious no-brainer. For those who are a sucker for Limited Edition packaging the fierceness that this collection displays will surely break your wallet. With the display of animal prints and tribal signs this collection lets you embrace your wild side just a bit more than your matte-black compact.
• Color Range: I love this collection for its range in color. One thing I always look for when buying makeup is its versatility and this collection definitiley caters to that. Additionally, the collection is sure to enhance complexions of all shades which is always a plus.
• Return Of The Old & Come Of The New: Some went insane last year when Solar Bits were introduced and some completely missed the bandwagon. So, if you're looking to get your hands on these then now is the time before they're locked in the vault once again. Also, MAC has introduced some new items such as the Lustre Drops which is a liquid highlighter that can be used just about anywhere. 

For some however, we do realize that times are hard and perhaps you can't splurge on the entire collection; but there are some honorable mentions that you should at least take a look at first! See our list below of what we found to be top-notch winners:

• Lipsticks: Brave New Bronze , Purple Rite
• Lipglass: Style Warrior, Liberated
• Eyeshadows: Bright Future, Vibrant Grape
• Blush: On A Mission
• Solar Bits: Impassioned
• Nail Lacquer: Mercenary
• Lustre Drops: Pink Rebel

Keep reading for a collection breakdown and more images!

Click to read more ...

Hey dolls! I'm back! Yes, I've been neglective (somewhat...okay, a WHOLE LOT!) but I've been sooo busy. Life has been a bit crazy these past few weeks but alas plenty of good has come out of it. Not to mention that I've also been swimming in a pool of ideas and have begun working on an amazing project that I will debut for you all later this summer. I can't really get into details now (for legal purposes) but you will all soon know whats going on! So for now, I'm back and everything's back to the usual norm! :)

NARS Cosmetics just launched an amazing new nailpolish collection, 'Vinatge 2009 Nail Polish' which brings back some highly coveted nail lacquers from the past. The collection consists of five shades that have been previously released and discontinued. The shades brought back from the NARS vault are:

Blue Lagoon: Iridescent Powder Blue

Hunger: Hot Orange Red

Zizi: Clear with Peach and Gold Glitter

Chachacha: Semi-sheer Tangerine with Gold Reflections

Tallulah: Rich Grape

I'm glad that NARS is finally beginning to dig deep into their vaults and offer us some great re-releases because some of these shades are extremely drool-worthy. Maybe this means that they'll also consider re-releasing Zulu which is the most gorgeous NARS nail polish EVER. I mean seriously, it's so amazing that I personally know a few people that have solicited NARS for a Zulu comeback -- seriously, its just THAT amazing! I guess only time will tell.

In the meantime, make sure you check out these new polishes which can be found exclusively online at NARSCosemtics.com.

Looks like our beloved Stila is back, and back with a major bang! They're website has just relaunched and it's completely revamped! Stila's new owner Lynn Tilton, is so excited about the company's relaunch that she is offering a Stila Appreciation 24kt Luxe Lip Gloss with a purchase of $25 or more. Just use code APPRECIATE at check out. In addition, some great features to check on the Stila site is their blog which is written by Sarah Lucero (Stila's key makeup artist) and sign up for their amazing rewards program, Stila Love. So what are you waiting for dolls, go check out the Stila Girls now at stilacosmetics.com!

MAX Factor, one of the first beauty brands in the industry; is introducing two new products into their line which may be worth your time next time you walk into your drugstore cosmetic aisle.

The first of the two is the revamped MAX Factor 2000 Calorie Extreme Lash Plumper ($9.98). In the past, the MAX Factor 2000 Calorie mascara has been known for providing intensity to lashes, however the formula seemed to clump a bit and dried out quickly. MAX Factor has not only revamped the formula to fix its past flaws but also has added a new rubber brush which is thicker than its past one.

The mascara itself is extremely similar to CoverGirl's Lash Blast. Same tube, same brush, almost identical in formula however, I find that MAX Factor's formula is a bit more pigmented and dark. The brush maneuvered well and gave my lashes an instant dark coat. To achieve best results I only needed a total of three coats at which my lashes were full, lengthened and clump-free -- a fourth coat added clumps to my lashes, so I chose to stick with only three.

The results were great at lasting all day, and I have yet to experience any fallout or unwanted smudging or wear-off like other mascaras. The best part was the removal; which is usually the make or break point for me with mascaras since I have such sensitive eyes, I need something that will remove easily and with this just mild soap and warm water did the trick!

Overall, I can say that I was impressed with this mascara as much as I was impressed with the similar CoverGirl Lashblast. Like Lashblast, this version provided the length, volume, and pigmentation that my itty bitty lashes need.

Next up is their newest lipstick, the MAX Factor Vivid Impact Lipcolor ($7.98 each). It debuted earlier this year and is currently available in twenty shades. So far I've tried Sex Kitten which is a gorgeous coral shade with a golden sheen. Surprisingly enough, the wear of the color was exactly like what it appeard on the tube. The pigmentation was great and it went on a bit opaque which gave it a more true color. The formula was also pretty decent compared to other drugstore lipsticks that I've tried, not the best I've tried, but definitely not bad either. It isn't a formula that's drying at all which I can appreciate.

Overall, this is a great lipstick and a good bang for your buck with quality wear and color. A perfect option for all the "reccesionistas" out there (God, how I hate that word! LOL!).

Visit www.MAXFactor.com to learn more and visit www.drugstore.com or www.ulta.com to purchase MAX Factor online.

Pop singer Rihanna made her first formal public appearance since the Chris Brown drama at last night's annual MET Costume Gala. She opted to wear a very fashion-forward suite, which some people such as Perez Hilton are calling "ferosh" and others can't seem to grasp. Personally, I'm all for a woman in a suit, and while I wouldn't choose to wear this piece personally; I do however think that if there's one place to wear this type of outfit - then there's no better place to wear it to than this particular even which is all about extravagance. Other than her outfit, I am in love with her makeup which was compromised of a sultry, blue smoky eye, flushed cheeks and mauve lips.

What do you think of Rihanna's look last night? Hit or miss?