It happens to the best of us - what looks and sounds like a great product in store turns out to be a dud. These products may be holy grails for some ladies out there, but for me - quite the opposite. Here are a few of my recent duds. Let's get right into it:

Spring is finally here! Although it doesn't feel like it quite yet in Canada - we had a snow storm this weekend and it's sitting at about -15. This winter has been a dreadful one - and I figured it was time to forget all about those cold days - and start to get ready for spring!

Here are my top picks for Spring 2014 makeup trends - and my personal makeup picks to showcase these trends. What are you looking forward to this spring? Comment below!

Welcome to my review of Julep Maven Subscription Review!

Product Details:
Julep products are sold at Julep and Sephora - "Julep’s fast-drying, long-lasting, non-toxic formula is paired with a high-performance, professional brush. Additionally, the brand donates a portion of their proceeds to organizations that support and empower women". Their polishes are "4 free" which means they have less toxins than conventional nail polish. Apart from nail polish, Julep offers hand/foot care products, make-up, and skin care. I had read many reviews on Julep's subscription box - and the majority have been very positive - especially on their polishes.

There are many subscriptions out there - from food snacks to cosmetics, clothes, you name it! I was excited when I first heard about Julep Maven - as it's focused on makeup, cosmetics and nail polish. I love nail polish - because you can quickly update a look with some new polish! Also, this particular subscription ships to Canada - something not all US subscription services offer.

Subscription Details:
Now to the details - Julep Maven is $19.99 USD/month including shipping. Each box has a value of $40 (or more). With the subscription, each month you have 4 days preview your box, try a new style, upgrade, and add extras. There are different box options each month - you are assigned a 'style profile' g on the style quiz you take. If you don't preview the box, the standard choice for your style profile will be sent to you (which is what I received in my test). As part of your membership, you receive 20% off at Julep.com and free shipping.

If you are interested in trying out this subscription service, they have a coupon code (FREECOLOR) for a free box (all you pays is $3.99 for shipping!)

I was assigned the "classic with a twist" profile which includes 2 nail colors & 1 full-size beauty product in every box. I decided to give the subscription a full two months before I reviewed the service. Here's what I received (for Feb and March 2014):

Welcome to my review of Jane Iredale's PurePressed Base ($60 compact, $40 refill)!

The facts about my skin:
Skin-tone: Olive skin tone
Skin-type: Oily acne prone
Problem: Occasional breakouts on the chin and cheeks, acne scars, large pores in the t-zone, an oily t-zone, and the odd wrinkle - wow that's a lot of problems!  

The Product: Meet Jane Iredale's PurePressed Base (in the color Latte)($60 compact, $40 refill)
If you're not familiar with Jane Iredale, the owner started the line in 1994 and their foundations claim to act as a foundation, concealer, sunscreen, contain active skin care benefits, and are non-comedogenic and do not block pores. This foundation in particular is said to be:
- Very water-resistant and highly pigmented
- Applies evenly and easily, providing long-lasting, gorgeous coverage
- Light diffusing properties make skin look flawless, healthy and younger
- Minimizes pores and fine lines
- No oil, talc, dyes and parabens
- Gentle, safe for sensitive eyes and formulated with good-for-the-skin ingredients

Below are the full ingredient details - from a refill package of the foundation. When you purchase it for the first time you will need to buy the compact and power combo for $60, The compact is a lovely gold color, made from metal and quite heavy - with the "J" design right on the compact. The re-fill foundations can be purchased for $40 - and if you order straight from the Jane Iredale site - your order comes with a note from Jane (I'm sure they're mass produced but which a nice touch!) and a real dried lavender - which was a nice surprise!