Thursday, December 10, 2009
Words to Live by
"There is no cosmetic for beauty like happiness." - Lady Blessington
Famed for her looks and accomplishments, Lady Blessington presided over a literary salon at Gore House, Kensington in 1822 and she was for some years editor of "The Book of Beauty", a popular annual of the day in 1834.
When you live a happy life, your true beauty will shine through, so always count your blessings and find reasons to be grateful. Happy Holidays.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Top 10 Beauty Mistakes
Beauty mistakes are something that we see every day, so I thought I would give you the TOP TEN (and the remedies to correct it).
THE MISTAKE
1. Obvious lip liner with lipstick that doesn’t match.
2. Wearing the wrong color foundation (and/or not blending foundation past jaw, into neck line).
3. Clumpy and flaky mascara.
4. Lipstick that bleeds or feathers.
5. Eye makeup that smears or builds up in the corner of the eye.
6. Shiny/greasy looking face.
7. Not covering a blemish.
8. Over or under plucked/groomed eyebrows.
9. Facial hair.
10. Blush that looks scary, not natural.
THE ANTIDOTE
1. Match the lip liner with the lipstick and/or use a lip brush to blend both together to eliminate the obvious lip liner look.
2. Color match your foundation by applying a sample color to your jaw OR the inner part of your wrist to find your true color. Then when you apply it, blend well past your chin/jaw line and down your neck to have an even flow of color and coverage.
3. Toss your mascara after 3 months of opening it cause flakes means it has dried out and clumpy means you are applying too many layers in between coats before it dries. Using a lash comb to separate lashes after you apply mascara will also help.
4. Prep your lips with foundation or a lipstick primer before applying a lip liner or lipstick to help retain the shape and to avoid feathering.
5. Check yourself in the mirror twice a day to make sure your eye makeup still looks good.
6. Oil absorbing sheets (blotting papers) are a great way to remove shine. You can also use powder applied to the "T-zone" area (forehead, nose and chin).
7. Makeup is needed to cover imperfections. Period. Whether its lipstick, concealer, mascara or blush, we all need a little boost of a beauty product to help us look a little better but definitely to cover a blemish.
8. Get your brows professional shaped/cleaned up if not sure of how to approach it for the first time. After than, maintenance is easy.
9. A mustache is just not sexy on a woman. Neither is hair below your bottom lip or a peach-fuzzy face in general. You can use Smooth Away buffing pads to gently and painlessly remove face fuzz, get your upper and lower lip waxed if you choose or a depilatory cream that's made for the face will also do the trick. Do your research to see what your best option(s) would be.
10. Blush is meant to mimic your natural cheek color when you blush. Applying blush like war paint is not attractive. A pink hue that's a shade darker than your natural blushed state is perfect when applied liberally.
So now that you know, you can be sure to always be a beauty DO and never a beauty DON'T.
THE MISTAKE
1. Obvious lip liner with lipstick that doesn’t match.
2. Wearing the wrong color foundation (and/or not blending foundation past jaw, into neck line).
3. Clumpy and flaky mascara.
4. Lipstick that bleeds or feathers.
5. Eye makeup that smears or builds up in the corner of the eye.
6. Shiny/greasy looking face.
7. Not covering a blemish.
8. Over or under plucked/groomed eyebrows.
9. Facial hair.
10. Blush that looks scary, not natural.
THE ANTIDOTE
1. Match the lip liner with the lipstick and/or use a lip brush to blend both together to eliminate the obvious lip liner look.
2. Color match your foundation by applying a sample color to your jaw OR the inner part of your wrist to find your true color. Then when you apply it, blend well past your chin/jaw line and down your neck to have an even flow of color and coverage.
3. Toss your mascara after 3 months of opening it cause flakes means it has dried out and clumpy means you are applying too many layers in between coats before it dries. Using a lash comb to separate lashes after you apply mascara will also help.
4. Prep your lips with foundation or a lipstick primer before applying a lip liner or lipstick to help retain the shape and to avoid feathering.
5. Check yourself in the mirror twice a day to make sure your eye makeup still looks good.
6. Oil absorbing sheets (blotting papers) are a great way to remove shine. You can also use powder applied to the "T-zone" area (forehead, nose and chin).
7. Makeup is needed to cover imperfections. Period. Whether its lipstick, concealer, mascara or blush, we all need a little boost of a beauty product to help us look a little better but definitely to cover a blemish.
8. Get your brows professional shaped/cleaned up if not sure of how to approach it for the first time. After than, maintenance is easy.
9. A mustache is just not sexy on a woman. Neither is hair below your bottom lip or a peach-fuzzy face in general. You can use Smooth Away buffing pads to gently and painlessly remove face fuzz, get your upper and lower lip waxed if you choose or a depilatory cream that's made for the face will also do the trick. Do your research to see what your best option(s) would be.
10. Blush is meant to mimic your natural cheek color when you blush. Applying blush like war paint is not attractive. A pink hue that's a shade darker than your natural blushed state is perfect when applied liberally.
So now that you know, you can be sure to always be a beauty DO and never a beauty DON'T.
Friday, November 13, 2009
'Tis the Season....
...for holiday parties! What better time to hit the town all dolled up? I absolutely love this time of year where clothes are more glittery, parties are more abundant and looking haute is imperative. Do not skimp on the details girls because makeup, hair, nails and clothes all need to be in the spirit of the season. Flip through those magazines to find what captures your fancy so you can catch that certain-someones-eye from across the room at your next holiday party.
When in doubt, a little shimmer goes a long way ;)
When in doubt, a little shimmer goes a long way ;)
Friday, October 9, 2009
Ahead of the Game
Happy Fall! I may be behind in my postings, but I am definitely ahead of the game when it comes to my research and knowledge of what's hot now and in store for winter-spring makeup trends. New York Fashion Week was chaotic beauty at it's best and every designer showcased their Spring 2010 collection with the next hot look in makeup that was inspiring.
Although the makeup trends were unique to not draw attention away from the clothes, they did establish a place on the runway with luminous skin and a bold feature that made each face stand out even more. There were a lot of bold lashes and cat-like liner against a natural face, or a bright lips making a statement that looked fabulous on every model.
What you can learn from the runway in the real world is that makeup should never draw attention to just your face. The clothes were meant to be the focal point on the runway, but in reality, you are representing a complete package when you walk out that door, so make a statement from head to toe by keeping it natural with highlighting just one feature and not try to make your makeup scream "LOOK AT ME".
Keep your face fresh and colorful with the perfect crayon-inspired lipstick to make your look "pop". M.A.C. has some great new colors this season that I can't stop using, so be comfortable to try something new and update your look.
Although the makeup trends were unique to not draw attention away from the clothes, they did establish a place on the runway with luminous skin and a bold feature that made each face stand out even more. There were a lot of bold lashes and cat-like liner against a natural face, or a bright lips making a statement that looked fabulous on every model.
What you can learn from the runway in the real world is that makeup should never draw attention to just your face. The clothes were meant to be the focal point on the runway, but in reality, you are representing a complete package when you walk out that door, so make a statement from head to toe by keeping it natural with highlighting just one feature and not try to make your makeup scream "LOOK AT ME".
Keep your face fresh and colorful with the perfect crayon-inspired lipstick to make your look "pop". M.A.C. has some great new colors this season that I can't stop using, so be comfortable to try something new and update your look.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
New York Fashion Week Booking
It's been a hectic summer to say the least with weddings, photo shoots, 10 bridal magazine covers and a television booking, but nothing says "end of summer" for me more than New York Fashion Week and the awesome booking opportunity I was offered.
September 10-17th at Bryant Park in New York is where designers showcase their Spring 2010 designs, and where the next makeup trends are seen, and started. I will be going to New York tomorrow to do the makeup for a few of the shows and a photo shoot, and I'm thrilled about what will be seen on and off the runway.
American icon designers such as Donna Karan, Max Azria (BCBG), Diane Von Furstenberg, Nicole Miller and Tommy Hilfiger (just to name a few) will be setting the fashion staples for 2010 and I am lucky to be a part of it. Keep your eyes peeled for what's next in makeup trends and I will post info and pictures while I'm in New York. Stay tuned...
September 10-17th at Bryant Park in New York is where designers showcase their Spring 2010 designs, and where the next makeup trends are seen, and started. I will be going to New York tomorrow to do the makeup for a few of the shows and a photo shoot, and I'm thrilled about what will be seen on and off the runway.
American icon designers such as Donna Karan, Max Azria (BCBG), Diane Von Furstenberg, Nicole Miller and Tommy Hilfiger (just to name a few) will be setting the fashion staples for 2010 and I am lucky to be a part of it. Keep your eyes peeled for what's next in makeup trends and I will post info and pictures while I'm in New York. Stay tuned...
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Pretty Is As Pretty Does
How long does it take you to get ready? Some of us may take longer than others, but is there a normal (acceptable?) length of time to spend on beauty efforts? I guess it depends on who you ask.
I personally love to take my time and can drag out the process for hours, depending on whether or not I have the time (or where I am going), but on average I spend one hour getting ready.
If for some reason I was only given a 15-min time limit, I could manage, but would not enjoy the rushed process because I genuinely enjoy the primping. I see it as something fun I get to do every day, so for women who loathe the process of getting ready, I can’t relate, but I can offer some advice:
Getting ready doesn’t have to be grueling if you consider it the first opportunity in your day to set the tone of the mood you CHOOSE to be in. Sometimes a little effort goes a long way so embrace the process.
I personally love to take my time and can drag out the process for hours, depending on whether or not I have the time (or where I am going), but on average I spend one hour getting ready.
If for some reason I was only given a 15-min time limit, I could manage, but would not enjoy the rushed process because I genuinely enjoy the primping. I see it as something fun I get to do every day, so for women who loathe the process of getting ready, I can’t relate, but I can offer some advice:
Getting ready doesn’t have to be grueling if you consider it the first opportunity in your day to set the tone of the mood you CHOOSE to be in. Sometimes a little effort goes a long way so embrace the process.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Does Looking Glamorous Have an Age Limit?
The other day a potential customer emailed me inquiring about eyelash extensions and what it entailed. I replied to her inquiry and noted that something as simple as enhancing ones lashes can make you instantly feel glamorous and that she will love how they look. She replied that since she was in her 50’s she was beyond needing to look glamorous. Ouch.
For those of you who might feel the same way she does, shame on you! Looking glamorous doesn’t necessarily mean movie-star hair and makeup every time you step out in public, but it should embrace the essence of who you are and how you feel. This includes a woman’s sense of style, the way she carries herself, how she does her makeup and hair, to even the way she wants people to perceive her. Looking glamorous is something you feel, not just how you look.
So on a day when you might be feeling “beauty-challenged”, always find something to make you feel glamorous and show it off.
For those of you who might feel the same way she does, shame on you! Looking glamorous doesn’t necessarily mean movie-star hair and makeup every time you step out in public, but it should embrace the essence of who you are and how you feel. This includes a woman’s sense of style, the way she carries herself, how she does her makeup and hair, to even the way she wants people to perceive her. Looking glamorous is something you feel, not just how you look.
So on a day when you might be feeling “beauty-challenged”, always find something to make you feel glamorous and show it off.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Can You Drop Subtle Beauty Hints?
I was reading "Dear Abby" the other day and came across this brides dilemma that the mother-of-the-bride was seeking advice for. Although it's rather funny, it brought to mind subtle ways we can make hints to friends sometimes but don't. Some might say it's none of our business to say anything unless asked, so is there ever really a good time or a polite way to tell someone they need to "fix" something?
DEAR ABBY: How can my daughter broach the subject of her matron of honor's "beard"? We're not talking about a few hairs here, but a growth that would make some young men envious. The wedding is coming up soon, and the bride and groom are concerned how it will look in the wedding pictures, but they don't want to hurt her feelings.
I, for one, have been taking quick swipes with my razor for years, and my whiskers haven't grown back thicker or darker, and I only have to do it once or twice a week. Ladies, if unwanted facial hair embarrasses you, forget the myth that shaving will make it worse. You don't have to lather up like a man at the sink, and no one has to know it but you. -- BRIDE'S MOM, ST. LOUIS, MO.
DEAR MOM: Before the wedding, schedule a "spa" day for the women in the bridal party -- manicures, pedicures, waxing. When you get there, invite the "bearded lady" to join you in getting any excess facial hair removed. If she sees she isn't alone, she may go for it. And if she's resistant, your wedding photographer can always "Photoshop" the fur away.
As always, great advice Abby. Although not many of us have bridesmaid issues to deal with to ensure great photo opportunities, we all can agree to have a friend who was or is currently in need of beauty advice, but you're not quite sure how to break it to her. Be it her yellow teeth, bad hair color, too tight or unflattering clothes, poor makeup colors or application, body odor, or anything else that distracts people from seeing her REAL beauty.
I have no qualms about telling a friend when she makes a fashion or beauty faux pas and I expect the same in return [however, for the record I don't make any :)]. I am definitely not subtle though, BUT I can never be accused of being dishonest when someone asks me "how do I look?". I am forthright because I want people to always look their best and sometimes other people can just see things we don't notice because we're so used to our own taste. Even when friends don't ask me, I find a way to express my opinion (but that's just me), and as a friend I believe it is your duty to do the same when you see them needing a little beauty reality check.
Who ever said "the truth hurts" was obviously not talking about beauty fixers because NOT knowing the truth could be a lot worse.
DEAR ABBY: How can my daughter broach the subject of her matron of honor's "beard"? We're not talking about a few hairs here, but a growth that would make some young men envious. The wedding is coming up soon, and the bride and groom are concerned how it will look in the wedding pictures, but they don't want to hurt her feelings.
I, for one, have been taking quick swipes with my razor for years, and my whiskers haven't grown back thicker or darker, and I only have to do it once or twice a week. Ladies, if unwanted facial hair embarrasses you, forget the myth that shaving will make it worse. You don't have to lather up like a man at the sink, and no one has to know it but you. -- BRIDE'S MOM, ST. LOUIS, MO.
DEAR MOM: Before the wedding, schedule a "spa" day for the women in the bridal party -- manicures, pedicures, waxing. When you get there, invite the "bearded lady" to join you in getting any excess facial hair removed. If she sees she isn't alone, she may go for it. And if she's resistant, your wedding photographer can always "Photoshop" the fur away.
As always, great advice Abby. Although not many of us have bridesmaid issues to deal with to ensure great photo opportunities, we all can agree to have a friend who was or is currently in need of beauty advice, but you're not quite sure how to break it to her. Be it her yellow teeth, bad hair color, too tight or unflattering clothes, poor makeup colors or application, body odor, or anything else that distracts people from seeing her REAL beauty.
I have no qualms about telling a friend when she makes a fashion or beauty faux pas and I expect the same in return [however, for the record I don't make any :)]. I am definitely not subtle though, BUT I can never be accused of being dishonest when someone asks me "how do I look?". I am forthright because I want people to always look their best and sometimes other people can just see things we don't notice because we're so used to our own taste. Even when friends don't ask me, I find a way to express my opinion (but that's just me), and as a friend I believe it is your duty to do the same when you see them needing a little beauty reality check.
Who ever said "the truth hurts" was obviously not talking about beauty fixers because NOT knowing the truth could be a lot worse.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Beauty & The Heat
Now that summer is officially here it doesn't mean your makeup has to melt under the sun. Winter and summer products are made for the elements under which you will be wearing them, so if you are still using your winter makeup and creams, now is the time to switch your regimen. Allow your beauty products to really work their true potential by using the right ones for your skin type, and time of year, so that also means switching your makeup for summer too.
Winter brings dry, dull and lack-luster skin, while spring is about re-newing and freshness. Summer is all about showing off your skin, so protecting it and making sure it looks beautiful is your goal this season. Start with a light weight moisturizer and put away your heavy winter cream. Exfoliate your face twice weekly with a soft face wash that is meant to remove the dull surface layer. Using sunscreen is also important, so be sure to use one that is meant for the face and your current skin condition. Avoid breakouts by washing face twice daily and using oil free products.
Your next purchase should be a light-weight foundation that is more of a tinted moisturizer than a heavy foundation formula. When using foundation always remember to not use it as a way to color your skin (like a tan) but to even out your skin, and it never should be a shade or two darker. This mistake is the most common error women make when picking out foundation, so be sure to match your skin correctly or you will have that dreaded two-tone face and neck color. If you have blemishes to cover and think you need a heavy foundation...think again. You can spot conceal your problem areas with concealer once you've applied your new summer foundation (concealer OVER foundation, not under...and use a makeup brush). A sheer makeup look is what you want, not a makeup shell.
The look of a sun-kissed face can be recreated with a bronzer and peach-toned blushes if you are staying out of the sun, but only apply to the areas of the face where the sun would actually "kiss" it (your forehead, down bridge of nose, apples of cheeks and chin). Bronzer is not meant for all over application like a face powder since it's only meant to highlight and not provide overall color. When you use the proper products for your skin type and for the right time of year, you can achieve a beautiful summer face without it melting, fading or wearing off.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Long-wear Lipstick: Friend or Foe?
I absolutely LOVE long-wear lipsticks (a.k.a. “lip stains”) because the extended wear cannot be beat and is perfect for anyone who always needs to reapply regular lipstick throughout the day because you've managed to lick, bite or eat it off. Anyone who has worn a lip stain however can attest that even though you get lasting color, the sometimes undesirable dry feeling on your lips can drive you crazy. So, do the benefits outweigh that side effect? YES, if you prep your lips properly to get the best application and use a lip stain that comes with a moisturizing topcoat. That topcoat (usually a clear gloss) will be your new best friend.
A word to those of you who might be trying this for the first time though: Exfoliate your lips to the point where you buff, brush and soften your lips to eliminate any and all existing dry skin that’s there (or could potentially be there) before you apply color. Dry lips and lip stains are a disaster to look at, so keep your lips looking lush and soft by prepping them first. Removing the lip stain can be a bit tedious as well, but nothing that baby oil can't fix.
Aside from the beautiful, long lasting color for 8-12 hours, there is no more smeared, bleeding or feathering going on, AND your lips will never look better with all that exfoliating you’ll be doing. For me, the best part about long-wear lipstick is that the color you see in the tube IS the actual color you get on your lips, so no more guess work or disappointment. How awesome is that?
A word to those of you who might be trying this for the first time though: Exfoliate your lips to the point where you buff, brush and soften your lips to eliminate any and all existing dry skin that’s there (or could potentially be there) before you apply color. Dry lips and lip stains are a disaster to look at, so keep your lips looking lush and soft by prepping them first. Removing the lip stain can be a bit tedious as well, but nothing that baby oil can't fix.
Aside from the beautiful, long lasting color for 8-12 hours, there is no more smeared, bleeding or feathering going on, AND your lips will never look better with all that exfoliating you’ll be doing. For me, the best part about long-wear lipstick is that the color you see in the tube IS the actual color you get on your lips, so no more guess work or disappointment. How awesome is that?
Friday, May 8, 2009
What's Trendy Now
Most makeup trends are first seen on the fashion show runways from Paris to NYC, so for spring and summer 2009, the hot makeup trends are dramatic eyeliner, metallic shades, fuller brows and fresh looking skin.
The best way to start a new season is with a refreshed look, so stop using your heavy winter makeup and lighten up! Vibrancy is back and tinted moisturizer formulas are better than ever with light-weight feel and great coverage. Makeup trends will mimic what is current in the fashion world because the two go hand in hand, so you will see lots of color in clothes this season (pastel jeans anyone?) and lots of color at the makeup counters too.
Knowing what trend to follow is as simple as knowing what your comfort level is with makeup. Are you tried and true with your makeup routine and don’t like change? Then perhaps just trying a new bold lipstick color this season is the baby step you’re willing to take. Are you a makeup junkie who loves to try, buy and collect everything? Then you can take a few pointers from the fashion magazines to see what new look you’ll try next.
Whether you opt for the bold colors of the season, the precision of perfect eyeliner or dabble in the metallic shadows, you will be set for spring and summer’s hottest looks. Just be sure not to wear all current trends at once. Good luck!
The best way to start a new season is with a refreshed look, so stop using your heavy winter makeup and lighten up! Vibrancy is back and tinted moisturizer formulas are better than ever with light-weight feel and great coverage. Makeup trends will mimic what is current in the fashion world because the two go hand in hand, so you will see lots of color in clothes this season (pastel jeans anyone?) and lots of color at the makeup counters too.
Knowing what trend to follow is as simple as knowing what your comfort level is with makeup. Are you tried and true with your makeup routine and don’t like change? Then perhaps just trying a new bold lipstick color this season is the baby step you’re willing to take. Are you a makeup junkie who loves to try, buy and collect everything? Then you can take a few pointers from the fashion magazines to see what new look you’ll try next.
Whether you opt for the bold colors of the season, the precision of perfect eyeliner or dabble in the metallic shadows, you will be set for spring and summer’s hottest looks. Just be sure not to wear all current trends at once. Good luck!
Saturday, May 2, 2009
4 Reasons Why You Should Never Leave the House Without Makeup On
1. You never know who you might run into (like the ex-boyfriend who you swore would eat his heart out the next time he saw you).
2. It makes you look people in the eye rather than avoiding eye contact, which will give you more confidence and encourage you to be more outgoing.
3. Never miss an opportunity to look your best.
4. YOU NEVER KNOW WHO YOU MIGHT RUN INTO!
2. It makes you look people in the eye rather than avoiding eye contact, which will give you more confidence and encourage you to be more outgoing.
3. Never miss an opportunity to look your best.
4. YOU NEVER KNOW WHO YOU MIGHT RUN INTO!
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Permanent Makeup & Why It's Never a Good Idea
We’ve all seen a woman at some point in our life who has permanent eyebrows, eyeliner, lip liner, blush or even lipstick. Aside from wondering how excruciatingly painful that must have been to get done, we may have also thought for a split second how great it would be to wake up with makeup already on, right? Wrong. Permanent makeup is tattooed on, which means a few things, for those of you who don’t have tattoos, so I will point out the obvious for you. It’s a painful process with needles (plural) injecting ink at a rapid speed. Removing a tattoo is even more painful and consists of a needle to numb the area, lasers to burn it off and scabbed skin left to heal, possibly with a scar.
Tattoo ink pigments change color when exposed to the sun, and over time the colors change, fade and bleed (look smeared). Since your face will always see the sun, you can’t control that change process with sunscreen, and you will experience those side effects. So imagine this; the once brown or black eyebrows you had tattooed will eventually turn to orange and blue over time. The fine line eyeliner will also change color and transform into a thicker, smeared looking line due to ink bleeding. Lastly, the process of aging will change our face once gravity takes over and will make lips thinner, brows lower and eyes droopier. So if you tattoo your face with brows at 30 years old, you will have them too high on your forehead at 60. See my point?
Also the permanent makeup needs to be touched-up every few years because of those fading, bleeding and color changing issues, so it’s not a onetime deal. It’s also expensive and although it may look good once it’s done, it never looks good as time goes on. I have yet to meet a woman who doesn’t have obvious tattooed makeup or that looked good with it. I have however seen so many women before me getting their makeup done and regretting their decision and asking me to “cover up” the tattoos. Sometimes I can, but usually it’s only a temporary fix for something that they have to live with.
Although there are reputable companies out there that specialize in permanent makeup, you can’t see into the future of how you will look with it, so is it really worth saving you an extra 10 min every morning? Part of the fun of makeup is to try out new colors, trends and application techniques, but if you are already tattooed, you give yourself no options and are stuck with what you have. That’s one regret I wouldn’t want and I can't think of many who would.
Tattoo ink pigments change color when exposed to the sun, and over time the colors change, fade and bleed (look smeared). Since your face will always see the sun, you can’t control that change process with sunscreen, and you will experience those side effects. So imagine this; the once brown or black eyebrows you had tattooed will eventually turn to orange and blue over time. The fine line eyeliner will also change color and transform into a thicker, smeared looking line due to ink bleeding. Lastly, the process of aging will change our face once gravity takes over and will make lips thinner, brows lower and eyes droopier. So if you tattoo your face with brows at 30 years old, you will have them too high on your forehead at 60. See my point?
Also the permanent makeup needs to be touched-up every few years because of those fading, bleeding and color changing issues, so it’s not a onetime deal. It’s also expensive and although it may look good once it’s done, it never looks good as time goes on. I have yet to meet a woman who doesn’t have obvious tattooed makeup or that looked good with it. I have however seen so many women before me getting their makeup done and regretting their decision and asking me to “cover up” the tattoos. Sometimes I can, but usually it’s only a temporary fix for something that they have to live with.
Although there are reputable companies out there that specialize in permanent makeup, you can’t see into the future of how you will look with it, so is it really worth saving you an extra 10 min every morning? Part of the fun of makeup is to try out new colors, trends and application techniques, but if you are already tattooed, you give yourself no options and are stuck with what you have. That’s one regret I wouldn’t want and I can't think of many who would.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Who Uses an Eyelash Curler?
Every womans hand should be raised! This tool, as barbaric as it looks, hasn’t stuck around since the late 1920’s for nothing. It really does what it promises; to make your eyes look refreshed, wider and brighter by curling the lashes up and creating the illusion of longer looking lashes.
First, know that you curl your lashes before applying mascara. Once you’ve curled them (always follow manufacturer instructions), apply mascara from root to tips wiggling the mascara wand as you go up and through. Apply a second coat before it dries to eliminate the chance of clumps. If you curl lashes after mascara, it only presses your lashes to stick together and clump.
There are a variety of curlers (metal, plastic and heated) ones out there, so buy what you are comfortable with and don’t be intimidated by the way it looks. It’s quick, effortless and the results will turn you into an instant fan.
First, know that you curl your lashes before applying mascara. Once you’ve curled them (always follow manufacturer instructions), apply mascara from root to tips wiggling the mascara wand as you go up and through. Apply a second coat before it dries to eliminate the chance of clumps. If you curl lashes after mascara, it only presses your lashes to stick together and clump.
There are a variety of curlers (metal, plastic and heated) ones out there, so buy what you are comfortable with and don’t be intimidated by the way it looks. It’s quick, effortless and the results will turn you into an instant fan.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Saturday, April 4, 2009
The Importance of Eyebrows
A friend of mine forwarded me a comical email that showed pictures of women with eyebrows gone bad. Really, really bad. After I stopped laughing, I realized that a lot of women just don’t realize how important our eyebrows are. They are the “frame” around our face, so like any work of art; you need a subtle way to draw attention to the beautiful picture without distracting from it. The wrong “frame” can alter how you perceive the picture entirely so it’s important to find the right balance.
When attempting to shape your brows for the first time, leave it up to a professional because your features and face shape are a factor in what will look best for you. They can clean up, create an arch, trim and groom them to the point where you will be able to maintain them yourself…or go back once a month for a touch up. The most common mistakes women make when doing their own eyebrow grooming is over-tweezing by making them too thin or plucking too much between the brows so they don’t begin where they should (parallel to the inner-corner of the eyes). So, whether you tweeze, wax or thread them, be cautious of not over doing it.
If you do need to fix a mistake, there are brow powders and pencils you can use in the meantime to fill them in until they grow back, so put down your tweezers. Trends come and go with eyebrow shapes, so I suggest never following the trend and just do what looks best on you. Also avoid tweezing with a magnified mirror; it always makes you over pluck! Good luck and happy grooming.
When attempting to shape your brows for the first time, leave it up to a professional because your features and face shape are a factor in what will look best for you. They can clean up, create an arch, trim and groom them to the point where you will be able to maintain them yourself…or go back once a month for a touch up. The most common mistakes women make when doing their own eyebrow grooming is over-tweezing by making them too thin or plucking too much between the brows so they don’t begin where they should (parallel to the inner-corner of the eyes). So, whether you tweeze, wax or thread them, be cautious of not over doing it.
If you do need to fix a mistake, there are brow powders and pencils you can use in the meantime to fill them in until they grow back, so put down your tweezers. Trends come and go with eyebrow shapes, so I suggest never following the trend and just do what looks best on you. Also avoid tweezing with a magnified mirror; it always makes you over pluck! Good luck and happy grooming.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
For The Love of Makeup on a Budget
With so many cosmetic choices out there, and everyone on a budget, there is a resource for every woman to still look her best. Whether you are on a department store or drug store makeup budget, you can find fabulous products that won’t deplete your bank account.
My favorites from the drug store are a staple in my makeup case because they work great, look luxurious on and are affordable for the amount of makeup I go through. Although I mainly use airbrush cosmetics, I do incorporate traditional makeup as well that won’t take away from the airbrush effect when trying to create a desired look, and here are some of my favorites:
1. Maybelline mascara formulas in “Lash Stiletto”, “Lash Discovery” and “Full & Soft”, all in Very Black color.
2. Revlon eye shadows in rich purples, sage greens, grays and golden beige colors.
3. Prestige water-proof lip liners in Angora and Plummy colors. They look great on everyone and go well with many lipsticks (just blend evenly with a lip brush to avoid the obvious lip liner look).
4. Cover girl blush in peach tones. They look so beautiful on everyone, like naturally sun kissed cheeks.
5. L’Oreal eyeliners in dark purple or gray colors. These look fabulous smudged for a smokey look and don’t fade.
6. Foundation- well this is a tough one for me since I only use airbrush for that, BUT, I have to admit that mineral powder formulas are the best route to go for a more natural and even color that I’ve seen.
Compared with drug store and department store mineral brands, I couldn’t tell the difference when worn because both were pretty. Buying liquid foundation in a bottle has never been an exact science, so if that’s your choice, choose wisely and always match your skin tone to get the best coverage.
My favorites from the drug store are a staple in my makeup case because they work great, look luxurious on and are affordable for the amount of makeup I go through. Although I mainly use airbrush cosmetics, I do incorporate traditional makeup as well that won’t take away from the airbrush effect when trying to create a desired look, and here are some of my favorites:
1. Maybelline mascara formulas in “Lash Stiletto”, “Lash Discovery” and “Full & Soft”, all in Very Black color.
2. Revlon eye shadows in rich purples, sage greens, grays and golden beige colors.
3. Prestige water-proof lip liners in Angora and Plummy colors. They look great on everyone and go well with many lipsticks (just blend evenly with a lip brush to avoid the obvious lip liner look).
4. Cover girl blush in peach tones. They look so beautiful on everyone, like naturally sun kissed cheeks.
5. L’Oreal eyeliners in dark purple or gray colors. These look fabulous smudged for a smokey look and don’t fade.
6. Foundation- well this is a tough one for me since I only use airbrush for that, BUT, I have to admit that mineral powder formulas are the best route to go for a more natural and even color that I’ve seen.
Compared with drug store and department store mineral brands, I couldn’t tell the difference when worn because both were pretty. Buying liquid foundation in a bottle has never been an exact science, so if that’s your choice, choose wisely and always match your skin tone to get the best coverage.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Don't Be Afraid of Makeup Artists
As women, we all have a horror story of getting our makeup done at the mall and hating it. But luckily those days of clownish hooker makeup are long gone because cosmetic companies today spend thousands of dollars in training their sales people to be makeup artists as well. The best way to ensure you get a great mall makeover is find someone who works there, whose makeup you like, and ask them to do your makeup. Be prepared to pay a small fee or purchase some products though when they’re done, because even a “free” makeover is meant to make a sale.
When it’s within your budget to hire a professional makeup artist (who is not in makeup sales), do not choose them on price alone. Pick an artist whose makeup style you like, one who has quality and quantity of photos that showcase their talent, one who is professional and seems to display a strong work ethic based on their experience. Don’t be embarrassed to ask for referrals of past clients or ask questions to see if they are the right makeup artist for you and your event. We are not only here to do your makeup, but to gain your trust as a potential client so you will refer us to others and come back to us again and again.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
How to Take Your Makeup from Work to Play
You may be dressed for business, but your makeup can speak another language once you leave the office. All you will need are 5 things, in 3 easy steps, to transform your day look into a night on the town. If you always keep these in your makeup bag, you will be ready at a moment’s notice to touch-up and go meet the girls for a cocktail, or your honey for dinner.
1. A gray or dark purple eyeliner (looks great on everyone)
2. 2 Q-tips (to smudge liner on top and clean up on bottom)
3. Lip liner in a shade darker than your natural bare lip color
4. Lip gloss
5. Blotting sheets (oil absorbing papers)
STEP 1: Line your upper lids with eyeliner and use a Q-tip to smudge and soften the line for a sultry smokey look. Clean up any transfer or mascara flakes on the bottom with 2nd Q-Tip.
STEP 2: Line and fill in your lips with the lip pencil and apply gloss liberally.
STEP 3: Use the blotting sheets to absorb any oil you accumulated throughout the day.
1. A gray or dark purple eyeliner (looks great on everyone)
2. 2 Q-tips (to smudge liner on top and clean up on bottom)
3. Lip liner in a shade darker than your natural bare lip color
4. Lip gloss
5. Blotting sheets (oil absorbing papers)
STEP 1: Line your upper lids with eyeliner and use a Q-tip to smudge and soften the line for a sultry smokey look. Clean up any transfer or mascara flakes on the bottom with 2nd Q-Tip.
STEP 2: Line and fill in your lips with the lip pencil and apply gloss liberally.
STEP 3: Use the blotting sheets to absorb any oil you accumulated throughout the day.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Mesmerizing Eyelash Extensions
Have you ever had eyelash envy? It's when you see someone with long, thick, curled lashes and wonder why you were jipped in that beauty department. Most of us have experienced "eyelash envy", so mascara is the ritual makeup tool we use to create those full and lush lashes we dream of, only to wash them away when we cleanse our faces. Sad but true, we need mascara everyday to give the illusion of length and fullness....until now that is.
Thanks to a fairly new method created a few years ago, eyelash extensions can give you those captivating eyes, morning, noon and night without the need for mascara. The process consists of a certified eyelash technician who applies the extensions one-by-one to your natural lashes with a special medical grade glue that bonds them together, creating a water-proof seal. The results are mesmerizing lashes that can last up to 2 months with proper care.
So what's the difference between eyelash extensions and false eyelashes? Simple; one is temporary, not lasting more than 24 hours and can look fake. While the other is semi-permanent, lasting 4-8 weeks and looks amazingly 100% natural. Touch-ups are needed every 2-3 weeks to replace any fallen lashes that occur through your natural shedding cycle, or for new lashes that have grown in. The extensions are water-proof in the shower, pool, or spa and require minimal care to keep them looking great and lasting long.
Eyelash extensions are a safe way to get those eyes that capture attention. You can wake up with beautiful eyelashes every day without effort. They say that the eyes are the windows to the soul...so why not have a gorgeous frame around those windows? In addition to being a makeup artist, I am now a certified eyelash technician, so visit my website for more information and how you can get those dream lashes.
Thanks to a fairly new method created a few years ago, eyelash extensions can give you those captivating eyes, morning, noon and night without the need for mascara. The process consists of a certified eyelash technician who applies the extensions one-by-one to your natural lashes with a special medical grade glue that bonds them together, creating a water-proof seal. The results are mesmerizing lashes that can last up to 2 months with proper care.
So what's the difference between eyelash extensions and false eyelashes? Simple; one is temporary, not lasting more than 24 hours and can look fake. While the other is semi-permanent, lasting 4-8 weeks and looks amazingly 100% natural. Touch-ups are needed every 2-3 weeks to replace any fallen lashes that occur through your natural shedding cycle, or for new lashes that have grown in. The extensions are water-proof in the shower, pool, or spa and require minimal care to keep them looking great and lasting long.
Eyelash extensions are a safe way to get those eyes that capture attention. You can wake up with beautiful eyelashes every day without effort. They say that the eyes are the windows to the soul...so why not have a gorgeous frame around those windows? In addition to being a makeup artist, I am now a certified eyelash technician, so visit my website for more information and how you can get those dream lashes.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
10 Makeup Tricks
- Using eye drops (that are meant to get the red out) on a red blemish will "take the red out" making it easier to cover with concealer.
- Using a concealer brush or a Q-tip works best to spot cover blemishes when you apply it in a tapping motion on and around the edges to blend in.
- When you brush your teeth, run your wet toothbrush over your lips to exfoliate and make them smooth.
- Applying foundation and powder onto your lips prior to lipstick makes it last longer, and if you wear lip liner, it prevents it from feathering (bleeding into lip lines).
- Applying mascara FIRST before any other eye makeup allows you to clean up smudges or smears without ruining eye shadow or liner you may have already applied.
- When buying blush, the color of your cheeks when you pinch the apples (highest part on cheekbone) is your true color when you blush, and a great guideline to finding a natural color for you.
- Colored mascara is a great way to make your eyes “pop”.
- Makeup removing cleanser cloths (without water) are the best way to take off makeup before bed if you’re too tired to wash your face.
- Woke up with puffy eyes? Wet and chill a wash cloth in the freezer for 5 minutes and sit up while pressing it on your eyes to reduce swelling. Limit salt and alcohol intake before bed because that’s the culprit!
- Blotting sheets (oil absorbing papers) work better than powder to remove shine throughout the day because it won’t disturb your makeup and will leave your skin matte.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Lipstick Goes a Long Way
Remember when you were young and you would watch your mom put on her makeup, and how every time she pulled out her lipstick (which was usually red), you begged for her to put some on you? We believed then that lipstick was what made you look prettier, and actually, that feeling never really changed as we got older. Lipstick is the last thing we apply when we do our makeup. It’s the first thing we use after we’ve finished our meal out at a restaurant. It’s the one thing we carry to touch-up throughout the day, and why? Because without it we feel naked. The lipstick color you wear can reflect or even create your mood, so with the endless choices out there, you are destined to find your signature shade and wear it with confidence. If lipstick is the only makeup product you do wear, it works, because never doubt that a little bit of lipstick can go a long way.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Makeup for Redheads
I was interviewed for an article on DivaVillage about makeup tips for redheads. Enjoy.
www.divavillage.com
www.divavillage.com
The Magic Powers of Makeup
Let's face it, not too many women can wake up and look glamorous without makeup. We may look presentable, yes, but glamorous, hardly. My love for makeup started at a young age, and even before I was allowed to wear it, I tried to sneak it every chance I could. Needless to say one of my older brothers lived to tell on me, so that euphoria never lasted long, but even then I knew the magic power of makeup because I was forbidden to wear it and that just made me want it more.Every time I leave my house I have the potential of encountering a new client, so not only do I need to know what I am talking about when these opportunities arise, but I also need to look the part too. I guess you could say it's part of my "job" to look presentable, but I really do believe it's every womens responsibility to present her best face at all times. Makeup isn't meant to mask who you are, but rather let your personality shine through, because we all know how good we feel when we "fix ourselves up".
As a makeup artist I always try to find the beauty in everyone I encounter because there is always one feature we love about our face and makeup only enhances those features. When you look good, you feel good. It's that simple, and it can really change your mood, make you more confident and speak up, rather than wanting to be invisible and just get through your day. Yes, makeup really does have magical powers and you need to allow yourself to fall under its wonderful spell.
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