Swatches + Review: Marc Jacobs Undercover Coconut Primer, Dolce & Gabbana Sheer Radiance + Perfect Matte Foundation

I've tried countless primers throughout  the years and have not found one that lengthens the wear of my foundation, substantially. At best, they allow makeup to apply smoother, while the silicone-based ones (review) fill in pores really well. The ones that are intended to mattify and to control oil do exactly what they're supposed to do, but they also can emphasize dry spots and over dry the skin, especially when they are over applied or applied to non-oily areas. It's important to find the one that's most suitable for you and to apply the product by using a targeted approach. (For example, I use silicone-based primers only on areas that have enlarged pores. I don't cover my entire face with the primer as it's not needed.)

I decided to try out the Marc Jacobs Undercover Coconut primer and the Dolce & Gabbana Sheer Radiance primer along with their Perfect Matte foundation. I've tested them rigorously, using a combination of various techniques, including the use of (1) light-weight and heavy moisturizers, (2) with and without a primer, (3) light, medium and heavy foundations, (4) mattifying and luminous setting powders, and (5) fingers, various brushes and sponge. I've also waited a few minutes for each product to absorb into the skin before applying the next product. Continue reading to find out about my results!

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Review + Comparisons - Nordstrom Brush Haul (Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, and Sigma)

It's difficult to review eye brushes and recommend the "best" one because some work better than others, depending on your eye shape and lid space. So hopefully, these pictures will help you figure out the one that's most suitable for you!

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Swatches + Comparisons - Collective Haul (Guerlain, Nars, Urban Decay, MUFE)

I had some of these products for a few months and others for a few years. -_-
I decided to group them together in one big post with mini reviews instead of making separate posts.

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Swatches + Review: Dolce & Gabbana Animalier Bronzer 2012

Dolce & Gabbana released the Animalier bronzer in 2011 in the standard gold compact. They recently relaunched the bronzer in a new limited edition leopard print compact, which is $7 more. I've always thought leopard print to be tacky, but recently, I've been loving all things leopard, (including this) and I just had to buy the Animalier bronzer.

Packaging: The gold metal compact contains a slightly rubberized leopard print design on the outside and a leopard print overspray on the inside. It also comes with a velvet pouch, full-size mirror and a mini travel brush, which feels soft and is convenient for touch ups. I am absolutely in love with the packing, but I think it would have been more exquisite if the rubberized cover was made of faux fur. Maybe next year? ^_^

The overspray may be a turn off for some people, which is understandable because (1) the leopard print disappears with 1-2 brush swipes and (2) the color is a dirty brown that's very glittery and unwearable. However, beneath the overspray is a gorgeous warm bronze shade that leaves the skin with a natural sun-kissed look when applied with the Chanel #1 brush. The color is dark enough to show up on my medium NC30/35 skin tone, but it's still light enough for paler complexions to wear without looking orange. Also, I do notice tiny shimmers in the pan and under direct sunlight, but when applied on my cheeks, they are barely noticeable, especially under artificial lighting.

Too Faced Chocolate Soleil is darker and completely matte, which is more suitable for medium to deeper complexions and for contouring (nose, cheekbones, forehead and anywhere else that you want to appear smaller/slimmer/defined). I use the Animalier bronzer mainly for my cheek area and when I want a "no makeup" makeup look.

As for the wear time, it lasts at least 7 hours without fading when worn over liquid foundation and setting powder.

(Natural Lighting)

(Direct Sunlight)


(Natural Lighting)

Bottom Line: The Dolce & Gabbana Animalier bronzer is definitely a collection piece for leopard lovers, but it's also practical and looks absolutely divine on the cheeks.

Note: The Dolce & Gabbana Animalier bronzer contains 0.53oz of product and is available at Saks for $57.

Do you think leopard packaging is tacky or classy?

*This post contains affiliate links. None of the products mentioned are sponsored.