Happy Black Friday! It’s time to start shopping for XXX-mas. Here are some cute gift ideas to inspire you!

I travel nonstop, and it’s hell to keep my cosmetics together. Happily, Elf Makeup sent me their mini makeup palette, which has 27 products in an compact, expandable case.

The design’s superb. You get a range of eyeshadows, blushes, lip glosses, bronzers, eyeliner, and even applicators — for a measly $15. Basil Farrow approves.

I like the matte finish of the eyeshadows, with subtle sparkles in the mix. The neutral colors let you match a variety of outfits. If you’re more of a drama queen, you can layer the shades (I used black and forest green to contrast my hair). The lip glosses aren’t sticky or shiny, and can create opaque looks that stay on well. Overall, the makeup kit is a no-brainer (ie, you should get it).

Next: stocking stuffers. SassynPunk, online retailer of all things cute, has everything in one location.

For a youngster, pick up a Sanrio sachet or fan. A sister or cousin will squeal over the bone hair clip. Don’t forget kitty: Basil loves the dangle-light!

Or how about friendship charms? I gave a dear friend one of these heart necklaces, and kept the skeleton bones one for myself. SassyNPunk is certified kawaii, and you save up to 75% during their Black Friday sale — so go forth and shop.

Skull sweater: Candy Stripper, from Closet Child Shinjuku
Long sleeve shirt with face: Etnies

My Scottish Fold loves receiving packages. This is a good one.

Misikko, purveyor of hair styling products, let me test-drive their Corioliss hair curler. I love this small business because they have wonderful customer service, and put a personal touch on packaging. (Wouldn’t the ribbon look pretty around my cat’s neck?)

The 5″ curling wand is professional grade, and comes with a glove so you won’t singe your hands. The ceramic heats up fast; wrap a strand around, and in a few seconds, you have tight and bouncy curls. (Obviously, the curler is not turned on in these photos.)

I clipped my hair to the side and twisted away. Done and done: this iron is my new favorite. This and more pro curling irons are available from Misikko — everything’s on sale for Black Friday! (Left image by Lee Kembel of GlitterMachine).

Did you go shopping on Black Friday? What did you buy? And what’s on your wishlist?

PS: If you’d like me to feature/review your clothing, accessories or products, contact La Carmina for rates and info. I’m very selective; I only work with brands that I personally like and fit with the themes of my blog.

Song of the Day: Buck-Tick – Galaxy