What's In My Bag (Round 2)

Many moons ago I did my first 'What's in my bag' post and seeing as how I love to try out new make up, that bag has switched up.

I've found a few things lately that I really love and think you guys should know about.
And bonus, none of these items are more than $10!

 1. Let's start with a bang, my newest favorite eye product for date night.  It is the ELF liner pen and it goes on SO smooth and it's almost impossible to mess up. WIN.  I say date night because on me, black eyeliner is a little intense for everyday (see below).

2. Need a perfect fall colored blush? This Tickled Pink Blush by ELF is the ticket and the perfect shade of pink.

3.  Rocket Volume Mascara - This has been my version of 'They're Real'.  I have a sample size of 'They're Real' and while I do like it, I don't love it (gasp!). It's almost too clumpy for me and virtually impossible to get off. While this mascara is thick (love that), it's not 'clumpy' and it comes off pretty easily.  And it's way cheaper.

4. (Daytime) Brown Eyeliner - I have been trying to wear more eyeliner lately because I love the way it looks. BUT usually when I apply it, it looks as if Floyd did it. However, you know what they say, practice makes perfect so things are getting slightly better day by day.  I recently picked up this brown and really like that it adds the dramatic effect of eyeliner but less subtle than 'HEY I HAVE BLACK EYELINER ON LETS GO OUT!' (<---- that's generally how black eyeliner is perceived in my head when I wear it, see #1.)

5.  NYC Wonder Pencil - There is a reason this thing is called a wonder pencil. IT WORKS WONDERS.

I use it on my waterline every day and it's an instant eye opener.
It is also a concealer and lip liner...wonders!

And before I put any of these things on my face I've been using this system from Boots No.7.

I wanted to treat myself to something after my first half and this is what I choose.  I have been loving it ever since.  I love that it has anti aging qualities, protecting aspects and it to top it off, it just smells great! I can definitely tell my skin is smoother and healthier since I've been using it.

What have you been using lately?

Product Love: Primpin

I'm back today with another round of my newest favorite products.

I love reading product reviews on other blogs and hope you guys enjoy mine as well!
On tap today I have some of my recent primping loves and necessities! 

1.  Drip Knots: 'Because getting clean shouldn't be dirty.' Hallelujah! I have a confession...I often skip washing my face at night (if I haven't showered) because I hate getting all wet.  I always end up with water all over my hair and down my arm and sleeves.  Drip Knots to the rescue! My MIL gave me these for Christmas and I have been in love ever since.  My hair and sleeves are ever thankful to her!  It may look a little ridiculous on but I'm telling you they work and definitely worth it!

2. Velvet Huggable Hangers: These are a MUST buy.  I picked up a big pack of these at Costco awhile back and have slowly been switching out all the hangers in my closet.  But I have a secret for you...get them at the dollar store, TJ Maxx or Marshalls, much cheaper at those places!  These are perfect for silky blouses and especially tank tops.  Nothing falls off of them because the velvet keeps them snuggly in place.  And they are thinner than normal hangers so you can fit more in your closet.  Win and win.

3. ELF Moisturizer: This was a random ELF purchase but I love it just the same as I do all my others.  It is great for a quick swipe of moisturizer in the morning or before bed.  I don't always love the lotion type moisturizers because I feel like they always get everywhere or I squeeze too much out, so this is definitely a good compromise.  However, speaking of, my regular moisturizer is running out...any tips on a good one I should pick up? (I am also in the market for new bronzer, without sparkles, any favorites?)

4.  Curling Wand: I think I mentioned that Mister got me this wand for Valentine's Day and I am officially in love! It does take some getting used to and playing with to get the hang of but I figured it out pretty quickly.  Also the curls seem to stay for long than they do with a normal iron.  I was able to rock my wand waves for 2 days straight last week.  And I know better than to fry my hair off...I think we've all seen that video by now.

5.  Makeup Organizer: I picked up this vanity organizer at Target the other day after I was tired of digging through my makeup bag to find what I needed.  The one I have has 4 compartments and fits all of my daily makeup perfectly! I love that I know where everything is and it keeps my makeup clean and tidy!

What have you been loving lately?
Any products (or moisturizers and/or bronzers) I should know about?

Currently Loving: Hair and Make Up Favorites

I've been experimenting with a few new hair and make up and I wouldn't be a good friend if I didn't share them with you, duh.

1. elf Studio Mineral Infused Face Primer: Guys, this stuff is like putting silk on your face. It is, by far, the softest thing I've ever put on my face. Have you ever tried a sample of the La Mer moisturizer and felt it's amazing softness? (I say sample because I am pretty sure I don't know anyone that actually owns an Le Mer.) Well it's kinda like that. Softest. Ever.
Not to mention it's also a great primer on top of it's softness, double score.
It may be the most expensive elf item I've ever bought ($6) but it is definitely worth it.
2. Korres Lip Butter (in quince): I actually can't believe I've never told you guys about this lip butter, I've had it for quite some time.
It is the perfect mix of chap stick and lip gloss.
Because it's a butter it isn't too sticky (like a gloss) but can easily by used as an every day chap stick for great color and moisturizing.
Again, double score...I'm just hear to bring you gals all kinds of goodness.
I have heard they have a cheek butter that is just as great and Courtney just wrote about their face cream and said it's wonderful as well. 
3. Elnett: I did it, finally.  Done and done. 
And, yes, it is worth all your pennies, but more so if you can score a $5 off coupon for Ulta. 
4. Got 2b Fat-tastic Mousse: This is an item I picked up on a whim but has worked out really well for me! I have to admit, the term 'fat-tastic' really sold me. I am always looking for anything and everything that will give my hair volume and thickness.  This is a great source for that for every day hair.
On the weekends I tend to use my nicer products. I have this weird theory about saving my 'good stuff' for the weekends. Yes, I'm a total weirdo.
5. elf Essential Jumbo Lip Gloss Stick (in sangria starter): I love the color of this gloss and it's just fun to put on.  It's basically like a big crayon, what's not fun about that?

Have you tried out any new products lately that I need to know about?
I also just got the Tarte Big Thrill (no longer available) thanks to a giveaway over at Her Late Night Cravings and I will have a review on it soon.
So much make up goodness in there. 

What's In My Bag?

Make up edition.

I have been trying out some new elf items lately and wanted to let you guys in on my favorites.

I'll show you my every day go to items. 

I don't use every single one of these every day but most days you can find a combination of these on my face. 

1. Elf Mineral Foundation in Warm

Okay, I was skeptical of this but decided to try it out knowing it would be way cheaper than my beloved Bare Minerals.

Verdict: I love it.

I think it is almost identical to BM.

My only complaint would be that it is a little harder to get out (there isn't a dial, just openings)

and they don't carry it at my Target so I had to guess a little with the color.

 I mean, for $5 can you really go wrong?

2. Bare Minerals Warmth

I love love love this bronzer.
This is one BM item I will continue to buy.
I hate when bronzers are sparkly or have glitter so this one is perfect because it has neither, just a great color that is easy to build.

3. Elf Blush in Mellow Mauve

I was using Elf's Pink Passion blush but wanted a more fall/winter color blush.
(that may be the girliest thing I've ever said.)

I ordered Mellow Mauve on a whim and it is perfection.

I think it is the absolute best blush color I have come across in a long time.

4. Elf Eye Brightener
This stuff is downright amazing.
Especially on those mornings you need to feel and look extra awake.
I use it on the inside corners of my eyes and underneath my lower lashes.
Instant wake up!
5. Elf Eyeshadow in Pebble and Oatmeal
Sometimes I use these two together and sometimes I only use the pebble.
The pebble is a great every day, basic brown for your lids.

6. Elf Mineral Eyeshadow in Confident and Temptress
Two more of my favorite colors.
These have a bit of a sheen to them, I usually reserve them for weekend wear.

7. Elf Cream Eyeliner in Black 
I know this eyeliner has been talked about to death but there is a reason for it.
It's amazing!
Many moons ago I had the Stila gel eyeliner and loved it.
I have to say this one is almost identical and way cheaper.
I mean, it's Pink Lou Lou approved, it's gotta be good then, right? 
8. Elf Mineral Eyeshadow Primer in Sheer

This primer is great and really helps their mineral (and regular) eyeshadow stay on all day long.

9. L'oreal Volume Collagen Mascara

I recently purchased this mascara on a trial basis and I am so glad I did!

It is really great at building your lashes up and creating volume.

Those are the 2 things I am always looking for in a mascara and I am so happy to find both in one product.

 10. Bare Minerals Mineral Veil

This is one item that I do not use every day but I still love it.

It is such a great finishing touch and helps your makeup stay set throughout the day.
Again, more of a weekend item.
#whenthingsgetcrazy

11. Elf Makeup Mist and Set

This spray really keeps my makeup in place throughout the day.

If I am feeling crazy I will use the Mineral Veil and the Mist and Set and my face isn't going anywhere!

Honorable Mention:

Elf Lip Exfoliator

I just received this gem and I can't get enough of it. 

I have been using it before bed and letting it work it's magic overnight.

It also tastes delicious so that is just extra bonus points in my book! 

There you have, that is what is in my make up bag!
I have clearly developed a full blown elf addiction.

I mean with their variety of products and their prices who can blame me??

What are some of your favorite elf or make up items?

One last thing!
I am guest posting over at The Daily Tay today.
Please tell me you read Taylor's blog.
If you aren't you are really missing out.
And a special hello to everyone visiting from The Daily Tay!

3 Things Tuesday

Just a quick post today.

First and foremost- the giveaway winner is:

Britt from The Magnolia Pair

Congrats, Britt!
I'll shoot you an email :)

Secondly, the request for more Floyd was overwhelming from the giveaway.

If you guys insist :) 

Here is my most recent and favorite picture of him

I mean, just get out of town.

And lastly, I took advantage of elf's $1.98 shipping last week and stocked up on a few things. 

I purchased a few items I am already in love with and can't wait to share them with you!

(A 'what's in my makeup bag' post is coming soon!)

I think I have found the perfect shade of blush. 

I also purchased their version of mineral foundation.

I am pumped to see how it compares to my beloved Bare Minerals. 

Have you guys used their mineral foundation?

Thoughts? Verdict?

Giveaway!

The day that I have been promising you is finally here!
It's GIVEAWAY day!

Before we get started I want to say a huge welcome to any new 

friends that are visiting from Keep Calm & Carry On!

We are so happy to have you here!
Please take a look around and stay awhile!

(after you enter the giveaway, of course)

Now on to business!

Because I love all of you so much,

and the support you have shown me,

and this little ol blog,

and for the awesome blog friends 

 I have made along the way...

I wanted to do a giveaway of a few of my favorite things!

#1

$50 Target Gift Card 

oh the things you can do with this baby!

#2

A collection of elf goodies

including (but not limited to) 

some of my favorites

Mineral Eyeshadow Primer

 Eye Brightener

 All Over Color Stick

12 Brush Set

and more!!

Here are the rules:

Mandatory:

Follow Total Basset Case via GFC

Additional Entries:

 Follow Total Basset Case on Facebook

Follow Total Basset Case on Twitter

Blog or Tweet about the giveaway

(must leave separate comments for each entry)

Giveaway is open until next Tuesday, May 22nd.

Winner will be announced Wednesday May 23rd!

That's it, easy peasy!

And if you haven't already, hop on over to Katie's blog and check out 

my guest post and show that fabulous girl some love!

You guys rock!
Thank you again to everyone!

Mwah!