Faking It with False Lashes

Ever see a celebrity whose eyes (lashes) weren't envy worthy? In case you thought all models and movie stars were blessed with freakishly long lashes, you'll be happy to know you can get the same look with false lashes.

Since eyes are the most expressive part of the face, all women should consider this one accessory needed in order to really make their eyes stand out. Whether you do it for an event, a night out, or daily; once you try wearing false lashes you won’t want to go back.

Here is an example one one brand to show you between strip and individual false lashes:

I rarely ever use the strip lashes on clients because I feel I get a more natural looking effect with individual lashes. All false lashes come in a variety of lengths, fullness and designs (yes, designs) and you can find all types at your local drug or beauty supply store. Luckily they are affordable enough ($4-$6) try a few different styles and find the perfect one for you. M.A.C. and various other companies make false lashes in an array of designs, but cost a little more ($12-$30) so once you've mastered the application, you can play with the more expensive ones without wasting your money.

Sample of some lash styles available


When applying the lashes you need to remember to take your time and use DUO brand adhesive (for lashes) for best results.

STEPS:

1. Use an eyelash curler on your natural lashes and apply a light coat of mascara.

2. Use tweezers to handle and apply lashes. Dip the lash base lightly into the adhesive then apply it to your eyelashes, starting with the outside edge and moving your way in.

3. Position the false lashes at the root of your natural lashes, not in a row above your lashes, to achieve a natural look.

4. If necessary, use a dark liquid liner to conceal the glue base (if noticeable) where you applied them in order to blend the lashes in better. Even gently doing a smudge smokey eye is good if you are not comfortable using liquid liner. Once you are done, you won't need more mascara (which could pull out false lashes when brushing wand through). So if you do want more mascara, just be gentle.

This is an eyelash applicator you can buy for full strip lashes that will help you get them on.  This is from Japonesque.



My Eyes

These are my eyes shown with just individual false lashes applied in two different techniques: The "gradual flare" is where I used different lengths and just did the outer edge. Then the "entire lash line" look had false lashes from outer edge to inner eye applied all in the same length of lashes. You can see how one looks fuller (and more dramatic) than the other this way.

Practice makes perfect, so don't get frustrated when trying to glue them on. One great way is to use a hand-held mirror laying on a table and you look down into the mirro while applying (rather than looking straight ahead into a mirror). This trick will keep your eyes in the position needed in order to get them on right. Have fun!

Finding the Right Makeup Artist for Your Wedding

You're engaged, congratulations! With all the planning you have on your plate, finding a makeup artist will be one of them, so to make it easier, consider these questions when you narrow down the contenders:

Q: What should a bride look for when researching a makeup artist?

A: You should look for 3 things - Technique, experience and a good portfolio. Although cost is a factor, never solely base your decision on price alone.

TECHNIQUE - *Do they use airbrush or traditional cosmetics? Which method suits your needs best?

EXPERIENCE - How long have they been doing makeup? **Are they familiar with bridal and/or editorial makeup?

GOOD PORTFOLIO - Does their website have lots of examples for you to see their work? Do they have a lot of bridal photos? If they don't have a website, do they have pictures they can show you?

*Airbrush is formulated to look perfect on film, in photos and in person and there are trained techniques that allow the artist to ensure this perfection is accomplished. 

**There is a difference with bridal, editorial and media (t.v.) makeup, so picking an artist that is familiar with bridal makeup will be able to create a long lasting, photo-ready look for you.

Q: What are the advantages of airbrush makeup compared to traditional makeup?

A: If you are not sure what the difference is, consider this: With airbrush, each persons foundation color is custom blended to match their individual skin tone, unlike regular foundation, where the closest color that matches you is used in most cases. Airbrush is also sprayed on to the skin, not rubbed into the pores, in a light seamless veil of color that creates a flawless complexion and does not need to be touched up. Airbrush makeup was made to be worn for long hours and sustain its beauty, while traditional makeup typically requires some maintenance to look good.

Q: How long will the makeup last?

A: It all depends on you/your skin type, and which method/products (airbrush or traditional) are used. Wedding makeup should be virtually maintenance free with very little touch-up (lipstick, gloss, blotting, etc..), so how well you maintain your made-up face will determine the longevity. Keep your hands off and blot with care. Any professional makeup artist, whether using airbrush or traditional cosmetics, will know how to give you the perfect face for your special day. Skin prep prior to a makeup application is also important, and your makeup artist should advise you of what to use and/or stay clear of.

Do your research, because one makeup artist's idea of "pretty" makeup is another person's worst nightmare.

Of course I am biased to have all brides use airbrush since I know it's a perfect choice for all skin types, tones, condition, ages and needs, and looks gorgeous on everyone. But I also know that any professional makeup artist well-versed in bridal makeup can get the job done and make you a beautiful bride too. So best wishes and happy researching.

Wedding Makeup Tips for Summer Brides

Wedding Season is in full swing and since brides are striving to create their ultimate look for their special day, these four simple makeup tips are sure to capture true bridal beauty.

1. Emphasize the eyes

Sheer foundation that doesn't mask your skin is always important and can help you get that "glow". Heavy foundation is never a good look; regardless of the season or reason. The bridal trend has always been about the eyes, so false lashes are the perfect way to add a little glamour. Long and lush lashes, shimmery shadows and lots of eyeliner will make your eyes smolder and have everyone holding their gaze just a little bit longer.

2. Blushing bride

A touch of peach blush give cheeks a warm hint of color and looks great on every skin tone.

3. Pucker up

A neutral (nude/light pink) toned lipstick with a little hint of color is always a popular choice and virtually maintenance free (unlike red). Finding the right shade of nude however might take a little practice because you don't want to look washed-out, so try on lots and take pics to find the perfect one for you. Be weary of dark shades on your wedding day because they will require touch-ups to ensure it hasn't smudged (especially after all that kissing).

4. Play it safe

Natural beauty with captivating eyes is the look most brides should strive for. With this flattering look, you are almost guaranteed not to have any makeup regrets when you see your wedding photos. Your wedding day is not the right time to try an entirely new look, so play it safe, because you want to be recognizable.

Easy, right? Even if you consider yourself a minimalist when it comes to your makeup routine, consult with a professional makeup artist to set up a trial to show you how gorgeous this look can be.

Men on Makeup: Increase Your Approachability

Did you know studies have shown that women who wear makeup draw 33% more men then a woman without makeup? I know this isn't a dating blog but if there were (single) women out there who wondered why they aren't meeting anyone, maybe it's not about the lack of men, but the lack of embracing the opportunities to use the tools we have as women to get the man. Never underestimate the power of makeup.

Painting of the face (and body) dates back in history over 10,000 years. The first cosmestics were discovered in ancient Egypt and used for everything from ritualistic to honorific (a mark of distinction, esteem or respect) - but often, especially in modern times, the context has been sexual. While over the ages, women wearing makeup have attracted admiring glances, it may also affect perceptions, both negatively and positively. But does it actually encourage others to make the first move? Psychologists did an experiment to see if makeup really did play a substantial role in attracting the opposite sex and the results weren't surprising.

The test subjects were two women sitting in a bar (seated separately pretending to wait on friends) to see how long it would take men to approach them. First experiment had both women wearing makeup and the second experiment without anything but moisturizer, while they waited for men to chat them up. With makeup, it took the men only 17 minutes to make contact (averaging 3 men per hour), while without makeup, 43 minutes to approach them (averaging .5 men per hour). Not sure if I have ever seen a .5 man but needless to say don't want to.

The results showed that makeup was effective in changing men's behavior, with one third more men approaching the two women when they were made-up. But while this study was done in good fun, there was an obvious issue the researchers acknowledged: wearing makeup could have given the two women more confidence, subtly changing their behaviour and encouraging men to approach. This may well have accounted for the men's behaviour instead of the makeup. Either way, you can't argue that makeup played a significant role.

This study also raised an interesting question on how exactly makeup works? While makeup seems to work by increasing perceived attractivity, it can also signal a willingness to interact or even availability. Further, cosmetics can send signals about status: one study published in the International Journal of Cosmetics Science has found that people judge women wearing cosmetics as higher earners with more prestigious jobs. Hmmm?

Researchers have even looked at which components of makeup are most attractive to men. The results of that study found that eye makeup has the most powerful effect on female perceived attractivity, followed by foundation. Lipstick, surprisingly, was found to have little independent effect, but was rated as the one product women would wear if only allowed one cosmetic item.

Nowadays considering the more radical methods people use for changing their appearance, like cosmetic surgery, applying a little makeup to enhance ones looks (or increases chances in the dating scene) seems innocent enough, especially when you know it will get you 33% more attention from men, and boost your self-esteem. Reason #1,432,786 why I love makeup. 

Classic Beauties - Finding Your Inner Bombshell

I love to see photos of movie starlets from the 1950's & 1960's because of how their beauty stood out. Not to mention their feminine (and attainable) body shapes, which to many, are still considered sexy today, when size 6-12 was the norm, and not the exception. Beautiful clothes, hair and makeup really did "make" the woman and still holds true today.

You don't need a million bucks to look like a million.  Nor do you need to follow the trends to fit in. You just need motivation and inspiration to find your inner beauty bombshell and create the look that's right for you. Start your quest online and look up celebrities whose styles you admire to get a feel of what you want your new look to mirror. Even these classic beauties have style thats still seen in magazines today, with an updated look.

Whether you start with a new hair color/style or switch up your mini skirts for knee-length with more fabrics that flow rather than adhere. Kitten heels for 4.5" platform stilletos, or even forgoing the routine little-black-dress for this seasons hottest colors; the point is, you can pull it off. Confidence is most important, if nothing else, and I always say when you look good you will feel good. So ladies, find what makes you a star and shine!   

                                                         

  

Makeup Fit For a (future) Queen

Today, Her Royal Highness, Princess Catherine Elizabeth, The Duchess of Cambridge, (as she is now to be known), married her Prince "Charming" (formerly Prince William of Wales), His Royal Highness, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, in a wedding that held traditional customs with a modern flair. Wills & Kate looked blissfully happy and it showed.

Kate's dress, created by Sarah Burton, Creative Director of the late designer Alexander McQueen label, most certainly captured Kate's envious figure with modesty. Her hair was done up beautifully by London's Richard Ward salon in a "demi-chignon" and her already gorgeous face was aglow from bridal excitement, and a very elegant look that was subtle and flattering.

Kate's wedding day look was created by none other then the bride herself, and I have to say she did a wonderful job. Her beautiful skin, light lip, highlighted cheeks and stunning eyes were perfectly done up and I wouldn't have done anything differently. Congratulations to the Royal couple.

NEW Lipstick Terminology

I posted last year about lipstick types (glossy, matte, stain, etc..), Sept. - "What's In a Name", and although those lipsticks will always be relevant, a NEW batch of products (and terms) are here to give you even more options for the perfect pout.

"GEL" - A full coverage formula that is less waxy and more sexy than traditional full coverage.
"MIST" - A silky wash of color that lasts up to 3 hours.
"SHINE" - Equal parts high-shine gloss and creamy lipstick that goes on light but can be layered for more intensity.
"CANDY" - Just a pop of color that comes in a chapstick-like base, gives your lips more of a candy-stained look (think lollipop).

Have fun playing with the formula(s) to find what works best for you.