Category / makeup

by Kelly Mattei

My Favorite Amazon Purchases of 2025 to Make Your Holiday Shopping Easier

My favorite Amazon purchases of 2025 to make your holiday shopping easier…

  • Solar Power Bank. I have purchased a lot of power banks over the years, but this one is my favorite of all time for several reasons. You can charge it with solar power (sunlight) or at an electrical outlet. It’s fast-charging, and the charge lasts a long time. It has built-in charging cords for different devices. It also has a wireless charging platform, so you can charge your phone without a cord. I also love that it’s not as heavy as lots of power banks. Added bonus? It’s inexpensive! It makes a great gift for lots of people, including teenagers and college students who might need extra power on their devices. Priced right now (at time of writing) at just $29.59 on Amazon, you can purchase it here.

  • Dyson AirWrap i.d. Multistyler. Dyson AirWrap systems have been popular for a long time, and there’s a reason…they are great products. It’s a gift lots of people would love to receive. I have seen people get more excited about this than anything else. They’re expensive, no doubt, but right now, this one is on sale at Amazon. Regular priced at $649, it’s now priced (at time of writing) at $499! That’s a $150 savings! Get them while they last here.

  • SUNNOW 12 Ounce Multicolor Crystal Wine Glass,for Home Dinning, Bar and Party,Set of 6 I got these for my college daughter, because she is always having friends over. With this multi-colored set, its easy for each person to remember which glass is theirs! And because they are inexpensive, it one gets broken, no one panics! They make a great gift, and these are a popular item on Amazon. I get “fast-selling item” alerts, and this was one of them. Purchase for $32.99 while supplies last here.

  • SHOWKOO Luggage Sets Expandable PC+ABS Durable Suitcase Double Wheels TSA Lock I purchased a set of this luggage for myself and one for our daughter. They are inexpensive but more rugged than I expected, and if you get a cool color, you can spot it easily on an airport carousel! Purchase for someone on your Christmas list here.

  • Trendy 14K Gold Plated Hoop Earrings for Women, Chunky Gold/Silver Earrings for Women Cubic Zirconia Baguette Hoop Earrings Heart Hoops Lightweight Hypoallergenic Jewelry,25mm/35mm/40mm/50mm. I have purchased these inexpensive earrings six times over the past year. They are my favorite grab-n-go earrings for running errands or meeting friends for lunch. I get compliments on them every single time I wear them. You can purchase them in multi-color, single-color, gold, or silver. When I say these earrings are one of my favorite Amazon purchases ever, I mean it. Most colors are $13.99, but some are as low as $13.59, and some colors are $14.99. They’d make a great stocking stuffer for every girl/woman on your list! Get them here.

  • Damero Pill Bottle Organizer Bag, Travel Medicine Bag Organizer, Medicine Organizer and Storage for Pills, Vitamin, Fish Oil, Medical Supplements for Women and Men. Another favorite purchase! I used to just keep my meds in a ziploc bag, but earlier this year, I decided to be more organized, and what a difference! I used this bag when I’m home and take it with me when I travel. It has slots for medicine bottles and pocket for other things like a pill-cutter or anything else. I literally use it every day. It comes in dusty rose or black. It’s great for college students too…for items like Tylenol, ibuprofen, cold medicine, allergy meds, etc. In fact, it could be a great gift for someone you know who is going to college soon…fill it with all those items and wrap it up for a Christmas gift! Purchase from Amazon here.

  • Girafit 3MP 2K Window Camera,2.4GHz&5GHz WiFi Indoor Cameras for Home Security 2 Pack with ChroMax Al Color Night Vision,Person & Motion Detection,24/7 Recording,Easy&Quick Install. I purchased these for our daughter’s college apartment. I had sent her a Ring doorbell, but because of the design of her apartment, installation was complicated. Since their front door has a window, this was super easy to install. The picture quality on it is amazing! She and her roommates thought they had an intruder one night, so the police came, and later, when she showed me the video of the officers arriving, I could read their names on the tiny nameplates on their uniforms. Highly recommend! Purchase here.

  • Protected By Home Security System Signs for Yard – 10″ x 28″ Police Dispatch Connected Warning Sign with Ground Stake, Alarm Signs for Home Security Rust Free 40 mil Reflective Aluminum Composite – UV Protected. I also purchased these for our daughter’s apartment. Her apartment is part of a house, so she put these in the front yard. Purchase here.

  • Makeup Eraser 7-Day Set. If you have never used Makeup Eraser, its time you did! It’s amazing how quickly these remove makeup with just water! My daughter have been using them for a long time and love them. they make a great stocking-stuffer or a great gift! Purchase here.

  • Nespresso Vertuo Plus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Maker by De’Longhi, Matte Black I’m just a regular coffee drinker, but our daughter loves specialty coffees, so we got her this Nespresso Espresso Maker, and she loves it. Someone on your list will love it too! At just under $125, it’s not cheap, but she said it’s worth it! Purchase here.

  • Women’s Sandals Peep Toe Slides. I’ve told y’all about these before…my favorite dupe sandals! I have them in four colors. No, I’m not wearing them in freezing temps, but they’re great in spring and summer…and on tropical vacations! Someone on your list will love these! They’re awesome! I found them to be true-to-size. Purchase here.

  • Favorite Dupe Handbag. Since we are talking about my favorite dupes, let’s look at my fave dupe handbag I purchased from Amazon this year. In fact, I purchased it in three different colors. Is it a perfect dupe? No, but it’s cute! And it’s 1% of the real thing. I have some nicer bags, but I do not like to travel with them, so these are great for that. Purchase here.

  • OCTOBUDDY Classic – Silicone Suction Phone Case Adhesive Mount – Hands-Free, Strong Grip Holder for Selfies and Videos – iPhone and Android Compatible. My daughter loves this phone case adhesive mount. It’s not the case; its something to mount on the case so the phone will stick with suction to surfaces…window, tables, shower walls, etc. It’s available in lots of colors. Just trust me on this…it’s a great gift for teenagers and college students. At just $14.99, it’s a great stocking stuffer. Purchase here.

  • JBL Vibe Beam – True Wireless JBL Deep Bass Sound Earbuds, Bluetooth 5.2, Water & Dust Resistant, Hands-free call with VoiceAware, Up to 32 hours of battery life Y’all, I’m prone to losing things, so I don’t want to pay a lot of money for wireless earbuds. I just can’t make myself do it. I found these from JBL, and I love them. They’re more comfortable than others to me, and they produce great sound. Starting at just $29.95 right now, they are a steal! This makes a great gift! Get them here.

  • SPOTMINDERS Apple MFi Certified Wallet Tracker Y’all…this is a game-changer. I always used other tracking devices for my luggage/handbags, etc, but they didn’t track in real time. Spotminders are rechargeable and track in real time! I have purchased them for the whole fam! Just link them to your phone’s tracking app. It will make a great gift or stocking stuffer for anyone who has a wallet, handbag, passport, luggage, or anything else they don’t want to lose! HIGHLY RECOMMEND! You can charge them on a wireless charger, and the charge lasts five months! Purchase here.

  • Stitchy. Who knew this tiny gun-shaped item would be such a life-saver? I didn’t know I needed it until someone gave me one, and now I use it all the time…almost daily! I use it to stitch collars with one click, so they will stand. I use it to reinforce buttons. I use it to ruche items. In a fix, I’ve even used it to secure the hem of some pants! At our white elephant Christmas party last year, this was the single hottest item! Purchase it for everyone on your list! Purchase here.

  • Tales Conversation Cards. We have one two different sets of these, and as corny as it sounds, we use them all the time! We use them when our little family is gathered around the table or when friends come over for cocktails. Each card has a question or directive. “Who here is most likely to live off the grid?” (No one named me, for sure.) “What’s something you think everyone should experience at least once.” https://amzn.to/4pUeP6xThere’s a family version, a teen version, and more! Get them. We find them great fun! Purchase here.

  • JBL Flip Portable Speaker. Y’all, I love this little speaker with big sound! I use it by the pool in the summer, in hotel rooms, in the kitchen…or anywhere else I want good sound. With Bluetooth capabilities, it plays straight from my phone. This is a great gift for just about anyone on your list, and it comes in a variety of colors. Purchase here.

  • Matcha Set. Our daughter came home for the summer and wanted to make Matcha at home, so we got her the kit to do it. She made Matcha all summer, and she has been making it all fall in her apartment. If you have someone on your list who loves Matcha, this could be a great gift. Purchase here.

  • Arctic Air Personal Air Conditioner. Y’all, I sleep with this thing pointed at my face every night. Sometimes, I put water in it, and sometimes, I don’t. It also has a light that you can set to one of many colors. I set mine on red, because it seems to give off the least light but just enough for me to make it to the bathroom safely. HIGHLY RECOMMEND! When I say I highly recommend this, I mean it…it’s one of my favorite things ever. Purchase for under $30 here.

  • OtterBox Rugged Tracker 4 Pack for Apple AirTag I got this for our keys…just pop an AirTag in it, and anytime you can’t find your keys, this will help you find them! Purchase here. And if you need AirTags for it, get the four pack here.

  • Ladies’ Wallet with RFID protection. I love this wallet. It makes it easy to find my credit cards when I need them. My ID is in a window pocket. It’s everything I need in a wallet, and it’s cute too! It comes in several colors, so you can get a different color for each person on your list. Plus, it’s priced right at $16.99. Purchase here.

  • 12 Pack Extra Heavy Duty Large Moving Bags with Strong Zipper & Comfortable Handles I purchased these when we were moving our daughter back to college last summer, but now I’m using some of them for storage at home! I love them! And they’re super-sturdy. I’m not sure they’d be a great gift, but maybe they would for the future college student? Purchase here.

  • Little Jesus. Lots of us could use a little Jesus. These pocket Jesus figurines could be fun stocking stuffers or fun to hide around the house. I hid them in our house, and my husband laughed every time he encountered one. Now we have a few strategically placed in cabinets or drawers to remind us that Jesus loves us. Purchase here.

  • A Super Comfy, Cozy Recliner. Y’all are going to think I’m crazy. Yes, I ordered a recliner from Amazon. I had a couple of surgeries earlier this year, and when I found out I needed a second one, I knew I needed a recliner to sleep in when I got home, but I only had a couple of days. I went on Amazon and found this gem. It was delivered two days later, and my husband took it up to the guest room, where I would recover from my surgery. Easy assembly…just slide the backrest into the back of the seat. It rocks, swivels, and reclinesl, and it has storage compartments built in. This has now become my favorite place to be! I call it my “drug chair,” because it just totally relaxes me! I think everyone needs one! If you know someone who could use a super comfortable, cozy recliner, this could be the perfect holiday gift for them. It’s available in gray and cream. I got the cream colored one. Did I mention I love it?!?! One of my best purchases ever, even though it’s not perfectly suited to our decor. Purchase here.

  • Acrylic Clutch Purse for Women Evening Bag This was something my daughter needed for all the cocktail parties in college. She got it in gold, but it’s offered in lots of colors, and it has held up very well for her. Could be a great gift for the college girl or anyone who might need an evening bag. Purchase here.

  • Bedside Lamp with Wireless Speaker and Phone Charger. This lamp/speaker/charger combo is also portable! I keep it on my nightstand and use it every night to charge my phone. I love it and think everyone needs one. Purchase here.

  • Vibration Plate. I know lots of people who swear by vibration plates to stimulate muscles and improve bone density. I don’t claim to be a doctor, but I have friends who swear they feel healthier after regularly using a vibration plate. If you’d like to try it, you can get one at Amazon for $99, and if you like it, purchase a more high-end one later. You can get a bestseller at Amazon here.

Happy Shopping!

*As an Amazon Associate, I receive commission on the items purchased through my links.*

by Kelly Mattei

Westmore Beauty Body Coverage Perfector Review

Two words: LOVE IT!

I tried the Westmore Beauty Body Coverage Perfector today on my shins and on my arms. Actually, on just one shin, because I wanted to see the difference. I love it! When my 21-yr-old daughter came in this afternoon, I asked her which leg looked better, and she immediately pointed to the one with the Westmore Beauty Body Coverage Perfector!

At 58, I have those little white spot on my legs…the ones where the pigment seems to have magically vanished. It makes for a much less smooth appearance. The leg with the perfector looks much better than the other.

To test it, I applied it before going outside in 98° heat to water my plants. Then I got in the pool. When I got out…the Perfector was still on the leg! Y’all, I love this stuff. The tube I have is 3.5 ounces, but I just ordered the 7-oz tube from Amazon.

Highly recommend! Order it here.

Also, here are pics of my legs…one outdoors and one indoors. You can see the difference. Is it perfect? No, but I only applied a very light coat. Might do more tomorrow. Yes, the leg on the right in each pic is the “perfected” one.

by Kelly Mattei

Smashbox Stocking Stuffers

Smashbox Stocking Stuffers.

Smashbox is a cosmetics brand that offers cruelty-free, vegan makeup and primers. They are favored by lots of makeup artists and photographers for their long-lasting wear. It’s high performance makeup for artistry made easy. Someone on your list needs some Smashbox in their life!

  • Smashbox Always On Longwear Matte Liquid Lipstick| Long Lasting, Waterproof + Non-Drying, 0.13 fl. oz. This long-lasting, waterproof, non-drying matte liquid lipstick is a crowd favorite for its vivid, lasting color. Offered on Amazon in 13 colors, this makes a great stocking stuffer. Get two or three colors while you’re there! Purchase here.

  • Smashbox Always Sharp Longwear Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner Pencil | Self-Sharpening Cap, Waterproof + High Pigment, 0.01 oz. Built-in self-sharpener ensures a precise tip with every twist of the cap on this popular eyeliner pencil. Eyeliner glides on easily to give eyes definition. Another great stocking stuffer under $30! Purchase here.

  • Smashbox Be Legendary Prime & Plush Lipstick | High Pigment + Moisturizing, 0.12 oz. Another great stocking stuffer under $30, this lipstick has high pigment, meaning beautiful color, and it moisturizes during wear! Purchase here.
  • Smashbox Always On Mood Board Eye Shadow Palette | High Pigment + Shimmer, 0.24 oz. This palette from Smashbox is offered in several varieties: Bougie Vibes, Earthy Vibes, Cozy Vibes, and Fiery Vibes. Each palette provides a different look but since it’s priced at just $39, go ahead and get two! BUTTERY SMOOTH: Glides on and blends without skipping or dragging. Shades can be worn alone or combined for custom depth and dimension. Purchase here.
  • Smashbox The Original Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Makeup Primer | Vitamin E + Oil Free This stuff is legendary. It provides a great, smooth finish that helps blur fine lines and pores. It’s great for anytime wear! Primes skin, helping makeup look better, longer, so the wearer is set for the day or night. This is another “under $30” stocking stuffer! Get it here.
  • Smashbox The Cali Contour Palette | Highlighter + Bronzer I love a good highlighter and bronzer palette. Last month, I forgot to take my makeup with me on vacation, so I ran into a store and purchased this for my contouring, highlighting, and bronzing needs! It was so easy to pack when it was time to come home. I’ll be traveling with it from now on. Pick from two different color palettes. At $46, it’s a deal. Get it for someone on your list here.

HAPPY SHOPPING!

***SPONSORED AD. WE RECEIVE COMMISSIONS FOR ITEMS PURCHASED THROUGH OUR LINKS.

by Kelly Mattei

Gifts For Women (that includes Mom)

Gifts for women (that includes Mom)

Lots of people find the women in their lives are difficult to buy for at the holidays. You’re not the only one trying to come up with gift ideas for Mom or your wife or other friends/family members. In fact, I get texts from people every day asking for help, so I’m going to throw some ideas out there. Some of them might be repeats from previous posts, but there will be some new ones in here too:

  • UGG Women’s Classic Ultra Mini Boot When I want to really relax at home and have comfortable shoes on my feet, I reach for my Uggs. I have all kinds of them…tall, short, classic, slippers…but these Classic Ultra Minis are great for me around the house. My daughter loves these too. In fact they’re on her Christmas list this year! Maybe Santa will bring them. Most of the women on your list would love this gift. It’s available in more than 20 colors. Purchase here.

  • Warmies neck wraps, eye masks, and heated slippers. You had me at “heated slippers.” They’ll actually microwavable slippers. To me, that sounds so incredible that I ordered some to put under the tree for myself! And the neck warmer? That’s always welcome. It can also be used on aching legs or even an aching back. Unlike a heating pad, you can walk around with warmies, because you aren’t attached to the wall with an electrical cord. Purchase slippers for Mom here. Purchase a microwavable neck wrap for her here. And the eye masks (heat them for relaxation or freeze them to de-puff eyes) can be purchased here.
  • Laura Geller New York Beauty Products. It’s what Mom wants! Laura Geller New York has beauty products that are made for mom! They’re current. They’re gorgeous. And they’re good for her skin! Get her the LAURA GELLER NEW YORK Jelly Balm Moisturizing Tinted Lip Color – Cocoa-Motion – Hydrating Vitamin E – Semi-Shine Finish here. It’s moisturizes her lips every time she uses it! She’ll thank you! Or maybe you’d like to get her the LAURA GELLER NEW YORK Award-Winning Baked Balance-n-Brighten To Go Travel Size Color Correcting Powder Foundation. It helps her skin while it covers little imperfections and creates a glowing finish. Find the right shade from the ones offered…it’s color correcting, and it’s not difficult to find her shade. Purchase here.
  • Drybar The Single Shot Round Blow-Dryer Brush This is a great gift for Mom! I have one that I use regularly! It gives my hair lift and body, whether I start with wet, damp, or dry hair. I love mine, and your Mom will likely love it too! Purchase here.
  • Dry Divas Shower Cap. Sounds weird, I know, but in my opinion, these are the best shower caps going. I have several of them, some of which I have had for seven years! I like them, because I have a lot of hair, and they actually cover all my hair on the days I don’t want to wash it in the shower. I have never found a better one. Plus, they’re so cute! Purchase the leopard one here and get it in time for Christmas!
  • SWOMOG Women Zipper Up Robe I know people laugh about moms getting robes for Christmas, but I love a robe. Seriously, I do. I always have. Even when I was a little girl, I liked to have a good robe to wear around the house. This one, though, is what I consider more of a “get ready robe.” When I get out of the shower, I might bundle up in a heavy robe for a few minutes, but when it’s time to do my hair and makeup, I don’t like to wrestle with a heavy robe. I put on my “get ready robe” that’s a lightweight, zip-up robe. Get one for mom here.
  • Bible Verse Jar This is a great gift for anyone. My mother would have loved this. I have one, and I sent one to my daughter in college, thinking it might help her when she is stressed or sad. It’s color coded by situation. Great gift. Get it here.
  • Credit Card Holder Wallet for Women I have one of these and get compliments on it all the time. Even my college-age daughter’s friends give me compliments on this wallet. It’s the one thing in my life that is truly organized! It also protect against credit card scanning with RFID protection. It comes in several colors. Right now, I’m carrying the green one, and my daughter has it in red. Get one for mom or any woman on your list here.
  • Kenneth Jay Lane Jewelry. Y’all, I’m just going to tell the world: I love Kenneth Jay Lane Jewelry. It’s all fake, but wow, he does a great job of making fake look good! I wear different pieces all the time, and some of them are my favorites! Any woman on your list is likely to love a Kenneth Jay Lane piece! There are lots of different price points, so you’re likely to find something in your budget that will be perfect for the women on your list. See Kenneth Jay Lane at Amazon here. Make sure you scroll all through the Kenneth Jay Lane items, as there are some that start as low as $22. I have a friend who has asked Santa for some gold polished earrings ($55) you can see here. If gems are their thing, see some great earrings for $109 here. Personally, it wouldn’t hurt my feelings to find the resin and glass earrings listed here. There are so many lovely necklaces here.

Go find something for the women on your list!

HAPPY SHOPPING!

*Sponsored ad. We receive commission on items purchased through links.

by Kelly Mattei

Best IT Cosmetics Deals on Amazon This Holiday

IT Cosmetics Deals on Amazon NOW!

***Sponsored ad***

Whether you need beauty products for yourself or plan to gift some, It Cosmetics has some great deals on Amazon right now that you need to take advantage of! I have been using It Cosmetics products for years! My friends can tell you I always recommend the products I have listed below, and now, you can take advantage of these deals!

  • IT Cosmetics Celebrate Glow Face and Eye Makeup Palette. I love a good palette, and this one is fantastic, because it contains everything to make your face glow…and I need that glow during the holidays! It’s on sale for $27 (reg $45), so grab this deal here.
  • Celebrate Effortless Glow Makeup 3-Piece Gift Set. This great set from IT Cosmetics features full-size lip gloss, eyeshadow, and mascara. It’s a bargain at just $30 (reg $50). I use all three of the products in this set and love them! Get the set here.
  • Celebrate Dramatic Eyes 3-piece Gift Set. This set contains three great no-tug eyeshadows. Love them! Use them all the time! Get them here!
  • Your Skin But Better CC+ Color Correcting Cream. This full coverage foundation glides on easily and covers the discolorations in my skin without looking heavy. I have been using it for years. It’s formulated with hyraluronic acid and other minerals to improve the quality of your skin, and it contains sunscreen! It’s great stuff, no doubt! Get it while it’s on sale for $32.90 instead of the regular price of $47! I have never seen it on sale before! Get it here.
  • Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream Illumination. This one adds a little illumination to skin, and I love it too! I mostly use it when I go out at night, to brighten my complexion. It’s also on sale right now for $32.90 instead of the usual $47! Get it here.
  • Your Skin But Better Nude Glow. Oh my gosh! I love this stuff! I use it on days when I’m going for the “no makeup” look. I also, occasionally, use it as a base layer underneath my other foundation, for extra moisture. Also on sale. Get it here.
  • Celebrate Youthful Hydration Anti-Aging Skincare Set. This set would make a great gift for any woman/girl on your list! Get six outstanding skincare products for just $45 (regularly $75) as a set. It comes in an easy-to-wrap box! I would love to receive this gift. Get it here.
  • Confidence in a Cream. This Anti-Aging face moisturizer is a true cream that I try to use daily…especially in winter, when the dry air can really cause skin damage. I just put a light layer underneath my makeup. Just like all the other products I have listed, I have never seen it on sale, but it is now $35.40 instead of the regular price of $59! This would make a great gift too, because it’s a universal moisturizer! Take advantage of the sale here.
  • Confidence in your Beauty Sleep. This night cream is 40% off now…unheard of! It’s great stuff, and again, this one is universal and makes a great gift…maybe pair this in a package with Confidence in a Cream…day and night! Get it here.
  • Bye Bye Under Eye Bags. I have a friend who introduced me to this product just yesterday. I tried it this morning, because I had an early appointment, and wow! It definitely “depuffed” my eyes! Get one for yourself and every woman on your list here.
  • Superhero Waterproof Mascara. I often use waterproof mascara if I’m going to be outside (especially if it’s cold), because as I age, my eyes tend to tear up in windy weather, and I don’t need mascara smudges down my face. This stuff is glorious. Get it for 40% off here.

#itcosmetics #holidaylooks #greatgifts #holidaygifts

by Kelly Mattei

2024 Holiday Shopping Links (so far)

2024 Holiday Shopping Links (so far). These are links to posts we have made since the middle of November. THANK YOU for shopping our links! We are creating more links today. Click each title for link to more information:

HAPPY SHOPPING!

by Kelly Mattei

IT Cosmetics Deals on Amazon

IT Cosmetics Deals on Amazon NOW! ***Sponsored ad***

***I receive commission on products purchased through my Amazon Links.***

Whether you need beauty products for yourself or plan to gift some, It Cosmetics has some great deals on Amazon right now that you need to take advantage of! I have been using It Cosmetics products for years! My friends can tell you I always recommend the products I have listed below, and now, you can take advantage of these deals!

  • IT Cosmetics Celebrate Glow Face and Eye Makeup Palette. I love a good palette, and this one is fantastic, because it contains everything to make your face glow…and I need that glow during the holidays! It’s on sale for $27 (reg $45), so grab this deal here.
  • Celebrate Effortless Glow Makeup 3-Piece Gift Set. This great set from IT Cosmetics features full-size lip gloss, eyeshadow, and mascara. It’s a bargain at just $30 (reg $50). I use all three of the products in this set and love them! Get the set here.
  • Celebrate Dramatic Eyes 3-piece Gift Set. This set contains three great no-tug eyeshadows. Love them! Use them all the time! Get them here!
  • Your Skin But Better CC+ Color Correcting Cream. This full coverage foundation glides on easily and covers the discolorations in my skin without looking heavy. I have been using it for years. It’s formulated with hyraluronic acid and other minerals to improve the quality of your skin, and it contains sunscreen! It’s great stuff, no doubt! Get it while it’s on sale for $32.90 instead of the regular price of $47! I have never seen it on sale before! Get it here.
  • Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream Illumination. This one adds a little illumination to skin, and I love it too! I mostly use it when I go out at night, to brighten my complexion. It’s also on sale right now for $32.90 instead of the usual $47! Get it here.
  • Your Skin But Better Nude Glow. Oh my gosh! I love this stuff! I use it on days when I’m going for the “no makeup” look. I also, occasionally, use it as a base layer underneath my other foundation, for extra moisture. Also on sale. Get it here.
  • Celebrate Youthful Hydration Anti-Aging Skincare Set. This set would make a great gift for any woman/girl on your list! Get six outstanding skincare products for just $45 (regularly $75) as a set. It comes in an easy-to-wrap box! I would love to receive this gift. Get it here.
  • Confidence in a Cream. This Anti-Aging face moisturizer is a true cream that I try to use daily…especially in winter, when the dry air can really cause skin damage. I just put a light layer underneath my makeup. Just like all the other products I have listed, I have never seen it on sale, but it is now $35.40 instead of the regular price of $59! This would make a great gift too, because it’s a universal moisturizer! Take advantage of the sale here.
  • Confidence in your Beauty Sleep. This night cream is 40% off now…unheard of! It’s great stuff, and again, this one is universal and makes a great gift…maybe pair this in a package with Confidence in a Cream…day and night! Get it here.
  • Bye Bye Under Eye Bags. I have a friend who introduced me to this product just yesterday. I tried it this morning, because I had an early appointment, and wow! It definitely “depuffed” my eyes! Get one for yourself and every woman on your list here.
  • Superhero Waterproof Mascara. I often use waterproof mascara if I’m going to be outside (especially if it’s cold), because as I age, my eyes tend to tear up in windy weather, and I don’t need mascara smudges down my face. This stuff is glorious. Get it for 40% off here.

#itcosmetics #holidaylooks #greatgifts #holidaygifts

by Kelly Mattei

Best Items I Purchased On Amazon This Year

Best items I purchased on Amazon this year (so far).

The year’s not over, but for those who might want to do some holiday shopping, I have listed more than 20 of my “best purchases” to share, starting in January of 2024. It’s a big mix of price points and products. You might have seen some of them before, but there are likely some you haven’t seen! These would make great gifts for family, friends, or party hosts/hostesses! Here we go…

  • Amazon Fire TV. I purchased one for my daughter’s bedroom at school and then turned around and purchased one for use on our back patio! At $99 right now, you cannot beat the deal on this Smart TV! Get it here.
  • Bible Jar. It’s a little thing that can make a big difference. I sent one to my daughter, and I sent one to myself too! Inside the jar are Bible verses that are color-coded to your needs. Feeling anxious? Angry? Happy? Sad? Lonely? It’s all there, and you can just pull out a color-coded verse. It makes a great gift. Right now it’s priced under $15. Get it at Amazon here.
  • Lolavie Glossing Detangler. I love this stuff! It makes my hair smooth and shiny, and it doesn’t take much to get the desired effect! I stumbled upon it as a free gift when I purchased something, and then I had to go buy it at Amazon! Get it here.

  • Amazon Essentials Women’s Lightweight Terry Joggers. Y’all, I feel like I’m walking around in my pajamas when I go out in these, but they aren’t pajamas. They’re just that comfortable! Pair them with a tunic sweater, and they’re great for airline travel. Priced at $19. Get them here.
  • Colorful Crystal Hoop Earrings. Sure, I have some nicer earrings, but these are colorful and match almost everything! These are great for travel, because you can wear them with so many things, day or night! They’re priced right at under $15, so if you lose one, you won’t sweat it. In fact, go ahead and buy two pairs on the front end! Get them here.
  • Seekway Water Shoes. I ordered these on a whim right before we went to the Bahamas, and after we got there, I realized how smart I was! Wow! I could walk around the beach and sandbars without worrying about stepping on sharp objects. I love them! They come in lots of colors, and the price is right! Get them here.
  • Foot Massager. This is listed as a foot massager, but it’s more of a TENS machine for the feet, and I love it. It folds up nicely in my suitcase, so I can take it anywhere I go! When I have been on my feet all day, it helps my feet and legs relax. Or if I’m struggling with Restless Leg Syndrome at night, this will sometimes help. Priced under $40, and there’s an 8% off coupon you can use with it at time of writing. Get it here.
  • Neoprene Socks. This goes back to a trip to the Bahamas. I purchased these neoprene socks to wear under my fins when I’m snorkeling, so the fins don’t rub blisters on my heels or toes. They work great, and they’re even helpful when walking on the beach too. Priced under $15 at time of writing. Get them here.
  • Personal Air Cooler. Sometimes, hotel air conditioners just don’t get the job done. A fan helps, but a personal air cooler really helps. It’s the difference in good sleep and no sleep. This one is small enough to fit into my suitcase, and from the nightstand, it blows cool air directly on my face or the back of my neck. I love it. Highly recommend, and it’s 30% off right now! Get it here.
  • Yukon Charlie’s Hammerhead Sled. Greatest sled ever made, if you’re asking me! We have enjoyed Yukon Charlie’s Hammerhead Sleds for years! It’s fast, sturdy, and somewhat steerable. At $199, it’s expensive, but the kids will love it if it snows! Get it here.
  • JBL Vibe Beam or JBL Vibe Buds. I have purchased both of these wireless ear buds, and I love both of them. I guess it’s just personal preference. I can tell you this…I will not purchase any more Apple Air Pods. I lose them too easily, and these are much less expensive and more comfortable. Get the Beam here. Get the Buds here.
  • Stitch Gun, Tagging Gun for Clothes. Y’all, how did I live without this?!?! It has saved me so many times since I purchased it! Dress too low cut? Put a stitch in it! Bra strap keeps showing? Stitch the shirt to it! And yes, i have hemmed pants with it when necessary. Sooo many uses! I love it! Highly recommend! Get it here.
  • Milani Violet Eyelash Primer. I have tried “high dollar” eyelash primers and none have worked as well as this one. This is a secret I almost kept to myself, but you can get it here! It would make a great stocking stuffer!
  • CorDx TyFast 10 Mins Flu A/B & Covid-19 test. Quick and easy! I used this last week when I needed to know if what I had was a cold, the flu, or Covid. It was a cold. I used something similar earlier this year to find out I had flu, but this one is much less expensive. Keep this in your house this winter! Get it here!
  • Window Alarm System 4-Pack. For peace of mind, I got these for my daughter and all her college roommates. It’s easy to install! Get it here.
  • Dr. Barbara Sturm Glow Cream. This is not something I purchased myself, but someone gifted it to me! It’s expensive, but I love it. I use it very sparingly, because it is so expensive. Someone on your list would likely love it! Get it here.
  • Arched Floor Mirror. My daughter needed a full-length mirror for her bedroom in her apartment, and this one does not have to be mounted to the wall. It comes with a stand! Get it here!
  • Round Nightstand Table. When I purchased this for our daughter’s apartment, I thought it was probably going to be junky, but it’s not! She loves it! It required some easy assembly. It looks great in her room! Get it here.
  • Pietro Simone Skincare Dewy Reboot. This serum, while pricy, uses peptides to provide an “intense epidermis reboot.” Love this stuff. A little goes a long way. It would be a great gift for the person who wouldn’t spend it on themselves. Get it here.
  • Rainbow Loom. Hands down, this is one of the greatest inventions ever for kids of all ages. My daughter got her first Rainbow Loom in elementary school. Now that she is a junior in college, she will still pick it up and make some silly rubberband bracelets to relax. It’s a great gift and inexpensive! Get it here.
  • Pawland Wooden Freestanding Pet Gates. My friend, Meg, told me about these when I was complaining about our dogs hanging out in our dining room. These solved the problem! I highly recommend these if you want to make certain spaces off limits to your pets. Get it here.
  • Peter Thomas Roth Instant Eye Tightener. Yes, I bought it, and yes, it works. It’s temporary, but it does work. I had some friends over this summer, and they liked it so much that they went out and bought some too! I haven’t purchased the face tightener, but they said it works too! Get the eye tightener here, and the face tightener here.
  • Hollywood Vanity Mirror. Another purchase for our daughter’s bedroom in her apartment, she uses this every day. Easy setup and operation. Get it here.
  • Credit Card Holder Wallet with RFID protection. I bought one of these for myself when I went to Mexico City earlier this year. Then, one day, my daughter’s friend saw it when we were at dinner, and she loved it! She thought it was a designer label. I ended up ordering them for my daughter and her friend! They make great gifts, and they’re inexpensive. Get the credit card holder here. And the larger credit card wallet here.
  • Thermacell Patio Mosquito Protection. It works! This small machine and its cartridges protect you from mosquitoes. I know, because it even works for me, and mosquitoes seek me out in a crowd! It’s a great gift! Get it here.
  • Deco 79 Recycled Glass Tall Vase. I needed a tall vase for my foyer, and this one did the trick! We love it! Get it here!
  • Meiz Pregnancy Pillow. No, I’m not pregnant. I’m 57, but I love this pregnancy pillow. I have used other brands, but this one is my all time favorite. I sleep so much better with this pillow. The only problem? I can’t travel with it. And yes, it’s also great for pregnant women! Get one here.
  • Lenox Blue Bay Colors Dinnerware. I changed colors in my kitchen this year. I have another “nicer” set of everyday dinnerware, but I wanted to add this to mix and match. I love them. Get them here.
  • Naturalizer Womens Amble Block Heel Loafer. Y’all, these look way more expensive than they are, and I love the tall block heel. They have a little platform, too, so the heel doesn’t feel as tall. I have worn them with pants, but now that it’s getting cooler, I will wear them with dresses and tights too! Get them here.
  • SANTINY Womens Joggers. These are stretchy but look better than joggers, if that makes sense. They almost look like dressier pants. I have them in two camouflage shades and black, and they look great with sweaters or blouses…or even a denim top or jacket. Get them here.

Happy Shopping! All these items have been great purchases (or gifts) for me! ***I might receive commission on items purchased from Amazon through my links.***

by Kelly Mattei

2024 Stocking Stuffers

2024 Stocking Stuffers

I know lots of people struggle with what to do for stocking stuffers for their families at Christmas. Personally, I love shopping for stocking stuffers, because they can be anything…serious, silly, electronic, nostalgic, or even essential. When I was growing up, as the holidays approached, if there was something we needed or wanted, my mother would always say, “Put it on your Christmas list!” Toothpaste? Razors? Underwear? Yep…on the list. I’m not above adding some of those essentials to a Christmas stocking, but I love to try to get a little more creative. Let’s go…

  • Mini UFO Hand Drone for Indoors. This is definitely silly, but it’s a lot of fun too…for all ages. I got one for each of us a couple of years ago, and we actually had a lot of fun with them! There’s virtually no learning curve, and they are rechargeable! We are all adults, so I can only imagine how much fun they would be with kids in the house. Get it at Amazon here.

  • JBL Vibe Buds. I have had it with spending lots of $$$ on wireless ear buds and promptly losing them, so the last time I needed some (in September), I purchased the inexpensive JBL Vibe Buds, and I like them better than any of the more expensive ones I’ve tried. They are far more comfortable in my ears, and I think they provide superior sound. As of writing, two colors (black and white) are on sale for about $30. Get ’em while they last here.


  • Merit M Flush Balm Cream Blush/Rouge. I know, the word “rouge” makes you think of your grandmother, but stick with me. I read somewhere recently that, even though we have been using pink/peach/coral blush for years, it’s not a natural cheek color. Apparently red is what we should be using, so I tried it in the form of this Merit product, and will never look back. Yes, it is a little pricy, but one little pot will last a long time, since it only takes a tiny smear to get full blush. I love it. I’m dropping some in our daughter’s Christmas stocking, because I think she will like it too. It also works if you need a little lip color too. Get it at Amazon here.

  • Rainbow Loom Original. Since we are talking stocking stuffers, I’m going with the Rainbow Loom Original. It should fit in (and fill up) a Christmas stocking. Priced at $7.99, it’s good for hours of creativity for all ages. My daughter loved rainbow loom when she was 7 or 8, and she still loves it at 21. Get it here. For a Rainbow Loom with lots of extra rubberbands, I recommend the Rainbow Loom Mega Combo Set for $19.99, but it won’t fit in a stocking. Get it here.
  • Peter Thomas Roth Temporary Face Tightener. It’s temporary, but it really does make wrinkles look smoother. I have friends who swear by it. In fact, there will be some in my stocking this year! I have the eye cream that temporarily smooths lines around the eyes and across the bridge of the nose. Get the face tightener here. And get the eye tightener here. If someone on your list (male or female!) would appreciate it, it makes a great stocking stuffer or just outright great gift! I have a guy friend who uses it daily!

  • Oura Ring. If someone on your list has been wanting or would appreciate this wearable technology, Christmas is a great time to make the purchase! The Oura Ring makes a great gift! It tracks sleep, activity, stress, heart rate, and more with the Oura app. People I know who have it swear by it. Right now, it’s priced at 22% off at Amazon. At $349, it’s $100 less expensive than normal, but it’s going fast! Purchase here.
  • Osea Ocean Eyes Age Defying Serum. My daughter and I will both find this in our Christmas stockings this year. It is supposed to awaken tired eyes while brightening and revitalizing. Thank you! May I have another?!? Get it here.

  • Lume Whole Body Deodorant. Seems weird, I know, to include deodorant in stocking stuffers, but this stuff is all the rage. Developed by on OBGYN, it’s safe for use all over the body. When I first tried it, I didn’t like the smell, but it has been improved. The women on your list will appreciate it. Get the starter pack here.

  • Rechargeable Headlamp. If my husband walks outside at night to check anything, he’s going to put on a headlamp. Same if he goes into the crawlspace under our house. He loves a headlamp, and a rechargeable one?!?! Well, that’s just the greatest! This pack of three will be in his stocking this year. You can bet on it. Get it here.

  • Bible Verse Jar. I saw this advertise and had to get it for my daughter. In fact, I will likely get one for lots of people on my list this year. It’s a jar with Bible verses tailored to your needs. The verses are color coded for “read me when you are happy/thankful/angry/anxious/lonely/sad.” I think it’s an awesome gift, and it will fit perfectly into Christmas stockings. Get it here.

  • Polaroid Go Instant Mini Camera with film bundle. I never met a Polaroid camera aI didn’t like. They’re instant fun! This bundle is on sale for 17% off (as of writing) and priced at $99. It will make a fun gift for kids and adults alike…to document the craziness of the holidays and laugh at it immediately! Hang the polaroids on the refrigerator or a bulletin board…instant fun!

  • Silly Bandz. These fun little shaped silicone bands were all the rage in the early 2000s. Kids love them, and it would be cool to introduce them to a whole new set of kids! They are inexpensive colletibles. Get them here.

  • Beanboozled. Something fun for the whole family! In this game, each player spins to see which color jellybean to eat. Each color has two different flavors, and you don’t know which one you’ll get! It might be pear flavored, or it might be stinky socks flavored! It makes for silly fun! Get it here.

  • Custom Socks with Faces. You’ve likely seen these before, but maybe you haven’t purchased! Now is a great time to entertain the whole family with photo socks! Priced at less than $10, they’re a fun stocking stuffer! Get them here.

  • Custom Luggage Cover. I have wanted one of these since I saw them advertised. This could be the year I get one! When my husband and I were waiting at baggage claim last week, I told him I was going to get him a customized luggage cover. He thought I was kidding. There will be one in his stocking this year! It’s a silly gift…but it’s practical too! Purchase and personalize here.

  • Too Faced Lip Plumper. Would someone on your list like a premium lip plumper but you don’t like the premium price? Forget Dior. Get the Too Faced Lip Injection Power Plumping Gloss. It’s my personal favorite, and it comes in lots of different colors. Priced under $30, it’s a premium plumping gloss at a not-premium price. Get it here.

  • Mini Karaoke Machine. What a fun thing to have at your fingertips! Kids and teens will love it, and chances are, Mom and Dad will want to use it too! Get it at Amazon here.

Happy Shopping for Stocking Stuffers!

***I might receive commission for items purchased through my Amazon links.***

by Kelly Mattei

Sorority Rush Prep Should Be Well Underway

Sorority rush prep should be well underway.

If your daughter is participating in sorority recruitment, especially in the south, you need to be knee deep in preparations by now. If not, it’s not too late, but get busy. I wrote a piece in February called Don’t Sweat Fall Sorority Rush Yet, and in it, I included a timeline of preparation. It’s almost mid-June…let’s gooooooooo! To read the piece I mentioned, click here.

In the piece, the timeline mentions the wardrobe in July. That is when it should be shored up and ready to go. Shop now for rush appropriate dresses. That means you don’t want to be too flashy, too skimpy, or too matronly. Most college-age girls know what is fashionable, but if you wouldn’t wear it in front of your boyfriend’s mother, don’t wear it for rush.

If you haven’t registered for rush or made any required videos, get busy. I’ve mentioned this before: don’t read a script for your video, but have some talking points, making sure you cover any prompts they have requested. Smile and be confident, and use good lighting!

Millions of young women have participated in recruitment over the years; you can do this!

Please send any questions, comments, or concerns. I love getting questions!