Review Archives - Alyssa Smirnov https://alyssasmirnov.com/tag/review/ Fashion and Lifestyle Blog Sun, 05 Dec 2021 01:45:06 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://alyssasmirnov.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/cropped-big-1-32x32.png Review Archives - Alyssa Smirnov https://alyssasmirnov.com/tag/review/ 32 32 Valentino Beauty: Eye2Cheek and Rosso Refillable Lipstick https://alyssasmirnov.com/valentino-beauty-eye2cheek-and-rosso-refillable-lipstick/ https://alyssasmirnov.com/valentino-beauty-eye2cheek-and-rosso-refillable-lipstick/#respond Sun, 05 Dec 2021 01:45:06 +0000 https://alyssasmirnov.com/?p=12010
Valentino Beauty Eye2Cheek and Rosso lipstick

Valentino has forever been revered for its couture aesthetics inspired by rich Roman culture and heritage. We have seen the dreamy gowns, the studded slingbacks, the hottest handbags. And now the fashion house also has its own beauty line. 

After joining hands with L’Oréal Paris and working on the formula for three years, Valentino Beauty finally launched. Dipped in the signature crimson lacquered packaging, the products not only look luxe but also work amazing on all skin tones. Because if there’s one message that the creative director of the fashion house, Pierpaolo Piccioli has focused on with this line, it’s inclusivity. 

Today, I’ll talk about two of Valentino’s life-changing beauty products — Valentino Eye2Cheek and Rosso Valentino Refillable Lipstick. And can I just say how OBSESSED I am with both of them? If they look pretty in the pictures, just wait until you have them in your hands. The exquisite packaging will make you feel like a diva, a Victorian princess getting ready for the next ball. You might even feel the urge to be extra careful while using them. I mean I guard these products like a precious little treasure. But do they work like magic too? Absolutely, yes, they do.

Valentino Eye2Cheek is a beautiful multi-purpose buttery, creamy powder that can be used as a blush and an eye shadow. Thanks to its sheer finish, it works perfectly as both. If you want an intense blush, you can simply layer and build it up to your desired mood. It comes with a mirror and a cute tiny fluffy brush to make it all happen. Don’t worry about the shades because the variety is good. From pinks to corals and oranges to plums, Valentino Eye2Cheek has 12 different shades. Want the perfect rosy cheeks that last for the whole day? A few swipes of the Valentino Eye2Cheek and you’re good to go.

The second product that I have been raving about to all my friends is the Rosso Valentino Refillable Lipstick. I would have bought it anyway but the fact that it’s refillable is what really sealed the deal for me. Once you’re out, you can refill the outer tube with the same color or any other color you’re curious about for almost half of the price. How awesome is that? The Rosso Valentino Refillable Lipstick has two luxurious finishes — a rich, creamy satin and a non-drying, soft matte. Both are equally gorgeous. It’s available in 50 shades suitable for all skin tones. It’s also highly pigmented so one stroke is all you need.

Valentino Beauty Eye2Cheek and Rosso lipstick
Valentino Beauty Eye2Cheek and Rosso lipstick

These are definitely two of my prettiest possessions. I can’t wait to try more of Valentino Beauty’s products and share the experience with you guys. Have you tried any? Tell me how you liked them in the comments below. 

red silk top with red makeup and lipstick
Valentino Beauty Eye2Cheek and Rosso lipstick
]]> https://alyssasmirnov.com/valentino-beauty-eye2cheek-and-rosso-refillable-lipstick/feed/ 0 Chanel 19 Size Comparison: Maxi vs Large vs Small https://alyssasmirnov.com/chanel-19-size-comparison-maxi-vs-large-vs-small/ https://alyssasmirnov.com/chanel-19-size-comparison-maxi-vs-large-vs-small/#respond Mon, 23 Aug 2021 19:00:21 +0000 https://alyssasmirnov.com/?p=11730
Chanel 19 Size Comparison Maxi vs Large vs Small
Worn Crossbody Left to Right: Maxi, Large, Small

The Chanel 19 flap bag has exploded in popularity since its release. It was one of the last handbags designed by Karl Lagerfeld and is named after the year it was released, 2019. This style is known for its woven chain CC logo, mixed hardware chain, wide quilting, and the soft and puffy structure. Since this bag has become so popular, there has been multiple sizes released and different variations within the 19 line. The most common is the flap bag which comes in three sizes: Maxi, Large, and small. Different websites call them different variations of these names. Sometimes the small is also called the medium or classic size. This Chanel 19 size comparison will be showing the difference between these three main sizes. For reference I am 5ft 6 inches and wear size 0.

Maxi Size

Chanel 19 Size Comparison Maxi vs Large vs Small
Chanel 19 Maxi Flap Shown Crossbody, Shoulder, and on the Crook of the Arm.

The maxi size is the largest of the three. It definingly is quite large, especially on my thin frame. It measures about 9.8 x 14 X 4.3 inches. In the photo I compare the three ways of wearing this bag. Crossbody is the least comfortable and feels quite restrictive. The strap drop is the shortest, at 14 inches, from the three sizes and this makes it not ideal for crossbody use. However I do like it on the shoulder and crook of the arm. Because of the large size and soft structure, if this bag is not full it will tend to look a bit flattened and shapeless.  It has a more casual feel and would be best suited for travel or for someone with a larger frame. Personally I don’t even carry that much stuff in the day to day to keep this bag full but it can fit many thing including a water bottle, umbrella, iPad and more. The bag in this photo is in the color light beige.

Chanel 19 Size Comparison Maxi vs Large vs Small
Chanel 19 Maxi vs Large

Large Size

Chanel 19 Size Comparison Maxi vs Large vs Small
Chanel 19 Large Flap Shown Crossbody, Shoulder, and on the Crook of the Arm.

The large flap is the middle of the three sizes. It’s a good bag for someone who wants to carry a little more than the small size but still wants an everyday sized bag. I also feel this bag would be excellent on someone with a larger frame since the smaller size may be too small for them. This size measures approximately 7.8 X 11.7 X 3.9 inches. The strap drop is quite a bit more generous coming in at around 18 inches. As seen in the photo it sits in a much better position on me when worn crossbody. The large size also has a slightly longer top handle chain than the small size. The top handle is about an inch smaller than the maxi but an inch larger than the small. This bag is in a medium grey color.

Chanel 19 Size Comparison Maxi vs Large vs Small
Chanel 19 Small vs Large

Small Size

Chanel 19 Size Comparison Maxi vs Large vs Small
Chanel 19 Small Flap Shown Crossbody, Shoulder, and on the Crook of the Arm.

The small or classic size flap size is the smallest of the three. It measures approximately 6.2 X 10.1 X 3.5 inches. This size has the longest strap length at around 18 inches while having the shortest top handle chain drop. Because of the smaller size, this size tends to hold its shape a bit better. Of course it still depends on how you maintain your handbag. This size works perfectly on me either way I want to wear it and I feel it is also a perfect size for daily use. One thing to note is that if you love to wear your bag on the crook of the arm, this size has the most hanging out. You can definitely tuck the chain into the bag which I often see people do but I wanted to show the difference here. The bag shown here is in the color white.

Chanel 19 Size Comparison Maxi vs Large vs Small
Worn On Shoulder Left to Right: Maxi, Large, Small
Chanel 19 Size Comparison Maxi vs Large vs Small
Worn on Arm Left to Right: Maxi, Large, Small
Chanel 19 Size Comparison Maxi vs Large vs Small
Left to Right: Maxi, Large, Small

The Chanel 19 bag is probably not going anywhere soon because every season there are so many new colors and variations of fabrics being releases. I hope this Chanel 19 size comparison is helpful to someone who is researching into making this large purchase. Whichever size you prefer, I feel they all are beautiful and work well depending on a persons needs. If you’re shopping for one of these beautify bags Fashionphile has a wide selection available. Let me know if you have any questions below and I’d be happy to try and answer them.

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]]> https://alyssasmirnov.com/chanel-19-size-comparison-maxi-vs-large-vs-small/feed/ 0 Riki Loves Riki Tall Lighted Vanity Mirror Review https://alyssasmirnov.com/riki-loves-riki-tall-lighted-vanity-mirror-review/ https://alyssasmirnov.com/riki-loves-riki-tall-lighted-vanity-mirror-review/#respond Wed, 14 Jul 2021 19:00:33 +0000 https://alyssasmirnov.com/?p=11209

How often has this happened to you? You spent hours doing a full face makeup that looks stunning in the indoor lighting. But the moment you see yourself in the rearview mirror of your car, the horror strikes. The contouring is painfully obvious. Your undereyes are overbaked. And that blush that was gorgeous indoors a minute ago now looks like two pink blobs in natural lighting.

You curse under your breath and wonder what went wrong. I’ll tell you what. The bad lighting around your makeup vanity. As someone who has walked around with unblended streaks of foundation, I can imagine the pain. But those days are behind me now. I did what had to be done and got myself Riki Loves Riki Tall Vanity Mirror that’s basically a godsend for beauty lovers like you and me.

Now, let me tell you how the Riki loves Riki Tall has changed my life (yes, you’ll know when you get one). So, it’s an LED vanity mirror that takes only a little space. Its ultra-slim frame makes it work perfectly even in a small space. Your vanity stays streamlined and uncluttered. I also really appreciate the futuristic appeal of Riki Tall. 

The row of HD daylight LEDs is also sleek. They are plenty in number and small in size unlike those mirrors with huge LED bulbs (they tend to generate heat and occupy a lot of space). The best part is that these LEDs have five dimming stages or five different levels of lighting. If it gets too bright for you, you can always dim it down and if you are working in a dark room, you’ve got more than enough light for a perfect makeup application. It’s super easy to set up and comes with a sturdy stand to prop it up on.

That’s not it. Riki Tall is not your regular light mirror. It’s a magnetic mirror that comes with multiple accessories. Here’s everything you get:

  • A round magnetic 3x magnifying mirror
  • A phone holder for taking selfies
  • A bluetooth remote control 
Riki Loves Riki Tall accessories
Riki Loves Riki Tall Lighted Vanity Mirror Review

The round magnetic 3x magnifying mirror conveniently sticks to Riki Tall for close-ups. It’s especially handy for perfecting that winged eyeliner. If you are a beauty blogger who regularly films tutorials or a makeup mentor who records classes, there’s also a magnetic phone holder for you. Just stick it to the mirror, attach your phone, and start recording or streaming in perfect lighting. The bluetooth selfie function also allows you to take as many Instagram-worthy selfies as you want of your makeup. 

Take it from the 100+ positive reviews on their website too. That’s what convinced me to get the Riki Tall Mirror and it turned out to be the best beauty investment for me. 

For makeup lovers like myself, it is a game-changer. I feel like a movie star and so should you. Share your experience or thoughts about the Riki Tall in the comments below. 

Riki Loves Riki Tall Lighted Vanity Mirror Review

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]]> https://alyssasmirnov.com/riki-loves-riki-tall-lighted-vanity-mirror-review/feed/ 0 Isabel Marant Duerto Boots with Beige Trench https://alyssasmirnov.com/isabel-marant-duerto-boots-with-beige-trench/ https://alyssasmirnov.com/isabel-marant-duerto-boots-with-beige-trench/#respond Sun, 27 Sep 2020 19:00:59 +0000 https://alyssasmirnov.com/?p=10654
fall trench tan beige with western Isabel Marant Duerto Boots

Now that fall is starting to seep in, I am so excited to wear all my warm clothes. While I will truly miss the sun, fall provides an amazing opportunity to wear cute boots and cozy coats. Speaking of cozy coats, this beige one is one of my favorites. From its height to its free flow, this Chicwish trench coat is all things elegant.

I particularly love its wide turndown lapel design and the fact that it has pockets for me to put all my tiny gadgets. The fact that the coat can be worn open or tied also provides a ton of styling options. And not to mention it goes beautifully with my Chanel classic medium beige Clair flap bag.

This bag not only screams luxury and versatility, but it is also highly scratch-resistant, making it one of my most favorite accessories. Its convenient size is yet another reason I like accessorizing with it.

However, what I truly love about this outfit is the tan Isabel Marant Duerto Boots.

To say these boots are amazing is an understatement! First of all, they are closed-toe and have cool western details such as a stacked Cuban heel, a flame-shaped vamp, and pull straps.

Not only are they at a very comfortable height, but they also have an undeniable cowgirl vibe to them, exuding both warmth and edginess. Moreover, these western-style boots have a loose fit at the top, making them easy to wear and perfect to pair with skinny jeans.

While the outside of these Isabel Marant Duerto Boots is made of classic tan suede, their soles and lining are made of high-quality leather, a feature that makes them quite durable. Although I must admit that this purchase was quite a splurge, I believe that it will prove worth it in the long run!

Isabel Marant Duerto Boots chanel medium beige claire gold hardware
fall beige tan trench with coat, wool blend

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]]> https://alyssasmirnov.com/isabel-marant-duerto-boots-with-beige-trench/feed/ 0 Noli Yoga Review and Blue Workout Set https://alyssasmirnov.com/noli-yoga-review-and-blue-workout-set/ https://alyssasmirnov.com/noli-yoga-review-and-blue-workout-set/#respond Sat, 20 Jun 2020 19:00:12 +0000 https://alyssasmirnov.com/?p=10165
Noli Yoga Review Alyssa Smirnov

When Quarentine from the Coronavirus first started, naturally I was wearing more casual clothes and not really shopping online for clothes at all anymore. There really wasnt any reason to dress more than casual anymore. After a few day I really started to notice how it affects my mood and even though it’s just casual clothes, styling it and making it look put together is something I love to do and it helps me be more productive during the day. I was browsing online and I discovered this brand called Noli Yoga. They were promoting a sale for cute workout clothes so I just decided to try it out because I really liked the color of this set. If you guys didn’t notice yet, this is one of my favorite colors to wear. I bought this set myself and even though it was on sale it is still a bit pricy, so that is one downside to this company. I purchased this item on my own and have no obligation to the company or to write a Noli Yoga Review but I couldn’t find much on this brand when I was looking so I thought it could be helpful for some. I really do like this set and the material that it is made out of. It’s like a thinner, slick, sporty material. They only come in one length and it is 7/8th. It’s not super unique because it is the same exact as the All Access Center Stage leggings and the Bra is also the exact same as the All Access Front Row Bra. I own the set from both companies and the fit is the same too. The bra is a bit basic and compression style. I really only got it because I liked to wear it as a set. The bra has no padding so you will definitely be able to see if you are cold. Overall my Noli Yoga Review is positive but if you like the style but are interested there are other colors from the other brand. Based on their site, it seems that different sets that they offer have different materials so they might be worth checking out. I would repurchase this set because I love the unique color and the quality is good. Overall I am happy with my first purchase from them. Shop the exact leggings HERE or HERE and the sports bra HERE. 

 

Noli Yoga Review Alyssa Smirnov Azur
Noli Yoga Review Azur Blue

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]]> https://alyssasmirnov.com/noli-yoga-review-and-blue-workout-set/feed/ 0 The Arrivals MOYA Shearling Coat Review https://alyssasmirnov.com/the-arrivals-moya-shearling-coat-review/ https://alyssasmirnov.com/the-arrivals-moya-shearling-coat-review/#comments Tue, 26 Nov 2019 20:00:32 +0000 https://alyssasmirnov.com/?p=10012
Moya The arrivals Shearling coat review

I’ve been eyeing the MOYA coat from The Arrivals ever since last winter and this year I finally decided to take the plunge and buy it before it was sold out. I love the look of leather and shearling and this coat totally gives off edgy vibes but being in Boston winters I need something practical as well. On their site they have their standard colors and this year I noticed they came out with a new one with the navy leather and black shearling. I love this combination because the black hardware blends in seamlessly. It is also their MOYA IV edition. I think they made slight updates to the coat since last year. 

Moya The arrivals Shearling coat review

When I first received this coat I have to say I was a bit surprised, It is very heavy and the oversized fit is not something I’m always used to but I wore it a few times and now I’m obsessed! It came very nicely packaged and there was a garment cover included which will come in handy during summer storage. The leather is very soft and luxurious and the shearling is equally as soft and full. entire inside and sleeves are shearling lined with the trim on the sleeves and collar. I got the coat in size xxs and I think the fit is perfect. I did try the xs but it was way too oversized.  I would say the fit is true to size. The coat features 4 pockets, 2 on the right chest and one on each side for the hands. The pockets are just fabric inside but still help in a pinch. There is functional belt detailing on the hem, end of the sleeves and the neckline. I don’t really ever buckle them up because it does take extra time but I don’t mind the look of them hanging down. They are also removable if you prefer. On to the best part of this coat is that it is extremely warm! Everything that is covered by the coat is nice and toasty however you should still cover the rest of your body so I would definitely bring along, a hat and gloves. The coat also isn’t as long as my Canada Goose, you can read that review here. With a fine leather coat like this I do take extra care of it by aways hanging it up carefully to maintain its shape and I do try to avoid wearing it on extremely rainy days. Overall I’m very happy with the quality and look of this coat as well as how warm it is. 

Moya The arrivals Shearling coat review
Moya The arrivals Shearling coat review

Pros:

  • Beautifully made and high quality materials
  • Multiple color options
  • Oversized fit, good for layering
  • Cheaper than alternative brands
  • Classic style

Cons:

  • Heavy
  • Still an investment and more expensive than faux options
  •  Can feel a bit bulky sometimes.
Moya The arrivals Shearling coat review

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]]> https://alyssasmirnov.com/the-arrivals-moya-shearling-coat-review/feed/ 4 Creating my Perfect Summer Dress from eShakti https://alyssasmirnov.com/creating-my-perfect-summer-dress-from-eshakti/ https://alyssasmirnov.com/creating-my-perfect-summer-dress-from-eshakti/#respond Mon, 08 Jul 2019 16:00:55 +0000 https://alyssasmirnov.com/?p=9888
eshakti dress

Recently I was introduced to a company called eShakti. I haven’t heard of them before but as soon as I hear about their unique concept of custom dresses I was instantly impressed and intrigued. Most of the items on their site are completely customizable. Even their sizing is very inclusive! You are able to select a premade size or enter your own measurements. After choosing the size, you can adjust the neckline, sleeve length and hem length. I chose to go with a light and flowy dress for the current summer season but I would also have loved this dress with long sleeves for a more formal look. Its so easy to transform any of the styles because they give you a visual.

eshakti experience
eshakti review

When I was picking out something from their site, I used the filter for natural fibers only. This is important to me since I try to buy clothes that is made of natural fibers and will be good quality in the long run. This one is cotton with a little spandex for the perfect fit. It’s not a super thin material which I like. It’s not see-through at all and is totally bra friendly. As soon as I received the dress I could tell it was very well made and there are lots of little details put in like a bra strap holder, a side zipper and even pockets! I can actually put my phone and keys in there which is very useful. This dress is really unique because I beleive it can be worn with the v-neck or flipped and worn backwards with the square neck and buttons.

The ordering process was quiet easy and standard. I chose to go with their standard sizing and it is true to size. They offer a discount for the first purchase but considering the great quality and custom features, they offer competitive pricing. It does cost a few extra dollars to make the customizations. After placing my order, it shipped from India. It arrived very quick considering it was an international package. The entire process of them making the dress to it arriving at my house was about a week and a half. You are able to track the process online which was nice. 

After wearing this dress, I am very pleased in the comfort level, style and quality. I think its an amazing concept that anyone is able to customize a dress for their own style or occasion.

This dress was gifted to me but all opinions and experiences are my own.

SHIRTTAIL FLOUNCE HEM COTTON KNIT DRESS

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]]> https://alyssasmirnov.com/creating-my-perfect-summer-dress-from-eshakti/feed/ 0 Canada Goose Rossclair Parka Review https://alyssasmirnov.com/canada-goose-rossclair-parka-review/ https://alyssasmirnov.com/canada-goose-rossclair-parka-review/#comments Mon, 28 Jan 2019 09:12:48 +0000 https://alyssasmirnov.com/?p=9071

If you live somewhere that actually gets cold in the winter, then you probably know you need a good winter coat to wear during those months. Until I moved to Boston, I didn’t really know what a real winter is! With the negative temperatures, chilling winds, and frequent snow, I began looking for something to keep me warm and that would last throughout the years. I noticed that quite a few people were mentioning the brand Canda Goose and there were several styles available at my local Nordstrom. Since my old coat was starting to show lots of wear, I decided to splurge and invest in a new coat for myself. I couldn’t find many thorough reviews when I was looking at this exact style so I’m making my Canada Goose Rossclair Parka Review.

To start off, this coat has exceeded my expectations and I am very happy with it! However, when I first bought it, people made it seem like it was the warmest coat in the world. I quickly realized that the coat alone will not keep you warm. You still need to layer and wear a warm sweater, gloves, warm pants, and warm shoes or boots. Notice how I didn’t say a hat. One of my favorite parts of this coat is the hood. It is down filled and thick and plush as the rest of the coat. I almost always wear the hood to block wind and keep my ears warm. It does make it a little hard to hear if you’re talking with someone while wearing the hood. Supposedly the genuine coyote fur trim is supposed to prevent some of the wind from coming in the front as well. Whenever there is strong windchill, the only places that feel cold, are the ones that aren’t covered by the coat. The longer back makes a big difference.

The Canada Goose Rossclair Parka Features:

-Six Pockets, double front pockets and two inner pockets (one zip and one slip mesh pocket). Front pockets are fleece lined.

-Adjustable Waist

-Zipper and button front closure

-Adjustable hood depth

-Removable genuine coyote fur trim

-625 Fill Power White Duck Down Fill

-Zipper extender in the back (makes the bottom wider)

-Backpack straps inside

Sizing

I had a difficult time deciding between xxs and xs and none of the stores in my area had both in stock in the exact style so I had to order both online to try and then kept the one that fit better. They both fit however, it’s important to try it on with a thick sweater underneath and then see which one is more comfortable. After doing this I chose to go with the xs and I’m very happy with my choice. Keep in mind that different styles fit differently. This style is considered to be slim fit. A common question people wonder is if all fur hoods on Canada Goose are the same color. The answer is no. The fur is a genuine so there will be variations depending on the animal it came from. There will also be variations in fur thickness. This so something to be aware of when purchasing a coat from them.  If you have any additional questions about the Canada Goose Rossclair Parka, feel free to comment and I’d be happy to help.

Pros

  • Windproof and Waterproof
  • Adjustable Waist and Hood
  • Warm, Plush Hood
  • Lifetime Warranty
  • Backpack Straps for Hands-Free Carrying. I use this all the time!
  • Fur has a wire inside to keep its shape
  • No velcro. This is a huge pro for me since velcro can snag delicate sweaters and scarves and it tends to wear out quickly.

Cons

  • I wish the bottom was adjustable so I could tighten it and further reduce air coming in.
  • Cost
  • Starts to show wear from frequent wearing such as color fading at the seems and the zipper paint has chipped off
  • Avoid wearing fur in the rain

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