Summertime = Neon Hues

My two favorite colors are yellow and green simply because they are fabulously bright and cheery. They provide an instant jolt of energy and stimulation which is why I opted to paint my living room green and dining room yellow three years ago (which is seriously one of the best decorating ideas ever!). Not only do I enjoy rooms and clothing items in these fantastic hues, I die for the plethora of eye makeup available in these colors as well. And yes, I do combine the two colors within the same look to achieve absolute "eye candy". Let me tell you this color combination looks good enough to eat! While randomly viewing the photo gallery of an online fashion magazine I found a picture of Kim Kardashian (everyones favorite reality star turned entrepreneur) wearing the most fabulous makeup combination and thought I would share it with you beautiful people. Achieving Kim's look is not as difficult as it appears, all you need is the proper BRUSHES and makeup products, and you too can successfully achieve this look!


(CLICK ON PHOTO TO ENLARGE)

Step 1 – Be sure to properly cleanse and moisturize your skin prior to applying makeup. During the summer months, use a moisturizer that is lightweight, yet effective and combative against harsh UV rays from the sun.

Step 2 – Apply a face primer such as Smashbox Photofinish Foundation Primer to the entire face once the moisturizer has completely dissolved. The primer will act as a barrier between your skin and the foundation, providing a matte and smooth finish.

Step 3 – Apply a neutral color cream eye shadow such as MAC Tan Ray Paint over the entire eyelid and brow bone. Be sure to smooth the color out evenly with a blender brush and remove all creases to ensure that it dries down smooth. (Option - Fill in your eyebrows with the method of your choice. I recommend MAC's retractable brow pencil.)

Step 4 - Apply a lovely goldish-yellow eye shadow such as MAC Goldmine all over the entire lid (from the inner to the outer) making sure to not extend the color up into the brow bone area. Blend the color well.

Step 5 - To create definition, apply an intense green eye shadow with shimmer such as MAC Humid to the crease, and slightly to the outer crease for drama. Slightly highlight the brow bone area with a shimmery neutral shadow or bronzer that isn't too dark.

Step 6 - Using a white eyeliner, gently line the waterline on the bottom lid to create the illusion of brighter, wider eyes. Using the small angle brush (or liner brush) line the inner bottom lashline (just below the white liner) with the goldish-yellow shadow, and the outer with the deep green shadow. Gently smudge the colors for a more dramatic look.

Step 7 - Apply a line of black liquid eyeliner across the upper lash line, gradually increasing the width of the line from the inner corner to the outer.

Step 8 - Apply a lightweight liquid foundation over the entire face using a foundation brush. Use this as an opportunity to clean up any residue from the eye shadow and/or eyeliner. Next, apply liquid concealer to any imperfections that weren’t previous concealed by the primer.

Step 9 - Using a wide fluffy powder brush, apply a loose powder such as MAC Select Sheer/Pressed powder over the entire face with the exception of the eyes. This sets both the foundation and concealer creating a flawless face.

Step 10 - Using an angle blush brush or the wide fluffy powder brush, apply bronzer to the cheekbones and along the hairline. Be sure to initially apply lightly and gradually increase the amount of product. Using the same wide fluffy powder brush, apply a shimmer powder such as Estee Lauder Signature 5-Tone Shimmer powder to the bridge of the nose.

Step 11 - Line the lips with a neutral color lipliner such as MAC Cork lip liner. Next, apply a coral peach color lipstick such as Revlon Moon Drops - Creme Lipstick in Hot Coral. If you are a "gloss-kinda-gal" apply a sheer lip gloss such as MAC lustreglass over the lipstick & liner.

Step 12 - Apply two coats of a lengthening black mascara such as Maybelline Great Lash to the lashes.

Wear hair back in bun to showcase this Look. Also, opt for white and/or neutral color ensembles with this look. It is PERFECT for a Summer night out on the town!

TREND ALERT: Leopard Print

While I know this is primarily a makeup blog, I am a Lover of all things related to fashion and will create a weekly (or bi-weekly, depending upon my mood) post regarding a current trend that I DIE FOR! This week's trend is Leopard Print. I personally am all About anything leopard print, from bed comforters to headbands. However, I can understand some peoples' reservations with the Bold & daring statement. If worn incorrectly, the trend can transform from Fabulous to overbearing tackiness (ex. Peggy Bundy from "Married With Children"). Try pairing leopard print shoes with an all black ensemble for a trendy but chic look. Also, try sticking to one print per ensemble to cut down on the busyness. Here are a few of my current FAVORITE Leopard Print items.

1. Leopard-print Scarf - These scarfs are my favorite accessory! Use one to add flare to an otherwise simple outfit. Pair with a white button up and boyfriend jeans for a preppy-chic look. Or, throw one on with a form-fitting black mini for a fun date night.


2. Stuart Weitzman Leopard Bobcat 'Colorado" Platform Slingbacks - The minute I saw these fabulous shoes I ordered them and they have been a wardrobe staple ever since. These versatile shoes can be worn during the Spring, Summer & Fall making them a great addition to your wardrobe.


3. Leopard-print Silk-georgette Dress - This delicious garment is a room stealer in any situation. Perfect for date night, a business meeting or Sunday morning service, you will definitely get use out of this gorgeous number. Pair with a black pump of your choice & subtle jewelry and you will achieve Perfection.


4. Leopard-print Jumpsuit - This number is only for the Wild at Heart, proceed with caution! I absolutely love this jumpsuit because it screams "I make my own rules!". Pair with a black cropped leather jacket, cami or any sleek black outerwear of your choice during the Fall and Winter months. When accessorizing, pair bold jewelry such as gold bamboo earrings and an array of bangles for that extra Umph.

DeBunking the Makeup & Skin Myths!

Hello Fabs! I hope that you all have had a fabulous week thus far. I have been really busy with school and in fact, inspiration for this post was derived from one of my lovely classmates. Once she found out I was a makeup artist she begin to pick my brain about the different skin and makeup "tips" she had received throughout the years, and I became complete discouraged with the falseness of the information she had been fed. This post "Debunks" some common makeup and skin myths that we are all exposed to.

Myth: Blush is for adding color, not definition.
Truth: Cheek color does both – add definition and color. It can be used to add warmth to your face and to shape and contour, enhancing cheekbones to make your face appear thinner. More neutral tones of cheek color can also be uses to contour other areas of the face, such as the jawline, temples and the sides of the nose.

Myth: It is essential that you drink at least eight glasses of water a day to achieve beautiful, glowing skin.
Truth: The majority of the water we are supposed to consume is derived from foods. Raw produce, unlike regular H2O, has antioxidants that help strengthen cell walls so you stay hydrated.

Myth: Foundation should be used on the eyelids beneath the eye shadow to ensure the longevity of the makeup.
Truth: Foundation causes eye makeup to cake and crease. Use a neutral color makeup base such as MAC paint, or dust pale yellow powder onto bare lids to make eye shadow adhere.

Myth: Shaving makes hair grow back thicker.
Truth: When you shave, you’re seeing the blunt edges of the hair regrow all at the same time, so there’s an appearance of being thicker, but there’s no difference in the diameter or density of the hair. Also, hair doesn’t seem to grow in as thick in waxing, because the entire follicle is removed, so the hair coming back in is growing in different cycles.

Myth: Squinting or rubbing your eyes and face can cause wrinkles.
Truth: Wrinkles occur where they do because of the places where skin cells are squeezed millions of times by facial expressions. So, squinting, or any other repeated facial expression, like frowning or smiling, will lead to wrinkles when it is done enough times. (Although I don't suggest that you stop smiling, frowning-yes!)

Myth: Spritzing water or liquid based products, such as MAC Fix +, on your face will freshen makeup.
Truth: NO it won’t! Spraying water onto your made-up face will only cause your makeup to run.

Myth: Looking well-rested requires a full eight hours of sleep per night.
Truth: As our cells lose water, our skin looks ashy and sallow. Good hydration from moisturizers can help.

Myth: Concealer should ALWAYS be lighter than your foundation.
Truth: Concealer has many uses and its tone depends on its use. You may use a lighter toned concealer for under eye circles to counteract the shadow, but to cover a blemish you would use a tone similar to your foundation. There are also color-tinted concealers available for specific uses, such as green tint to cover redness. The number one rule is to BLEND BLEND BLEND your concealer until it disappears.

Lip-ouflage

Happy Sunday Fabs! How many of you personally, or know someone who, have darker colored lips and feel that you are exempt from wearing certain color lipglosses, stains or lipsticks because of this? This post is especially for all of you. There are products and tricks in existence that allow every woman to successfully wear any color they feel! You know that concealer that many of us use to cover blemishes, and hide bags & dark circles beneath the eye??....That very same product works to "conceal lips" and create a bare canvas for the application of lip color. After moisturizing the lip with the moisturizer of your choice, take your lip brush and gently apply a thin layer of concealer over your lips. Once the concealer dries, paint on your lipstick and like magic, the true color of the lipstick appears. In addition to the concealer, another technique is to apply a lip primer to your lips prior to applying the lipstick. The primer neutralizes the lips and increases the effect of the lipstick. This technique is not as powerful as the latter, but effective nonetheless. If your lips have become darker due to smoking or reasons other then genetically based ones, cosmetic companies have created products that permanently lighten the color of the lips, however I cannot personally endorse a particular brand. Drink plenty of water and avoid dark caffeinated beverages such as tea and coffee. Some experts believe these products darken lips.

Today marks the start a new week - try something NEW. Be FABULOUS!

Eye Catching.........

Ladies, I've decided to let you in on a few of the eyeliner techniques/trends that I follow to add that extra umph & perfect whatever look I am creating. Its all about stepping outside of your box and reinventing your current look. Enjoy :)

"Drama Drama"
When creating a DRAMATIC eye with black eye liner, I lift the upper eyelid (exposing the eyeball as if I am about to place an eyedrop in), take the jet black eye liner (only a pencil can be used in this situation) and gently line the inner rim of the upper eyelid. On occasion I will also attach individual lashes to the lashes on the very bottom row. This area is sensitive so I suggest using a Kohl liner for a smooth application. This technique adds flare to a smokey eye or other dramatic looks.

"Wide Eyed Gal"
If you are looking for a technique that gives the allusion of brighter, whiter and larger eyes, line the lower inner rim of the bottom lid with a white eyeliner. For a more subtle touch, simply line the inner corner of your eye. This will still create a “pop”. White eyeliner is actually one of my favorite items because of its versatility. If you are opposed to white liner, light champagne or peach work fabulously as well.

"The Infamous Cat Eye"
The "cat eye" is by far the number 1 most requested look I get when creating a smokey eye or totally dramatic eye for a night look. Complete these following steps to achieve the look:

1. Tilt your head back so you’re looking down into the mirror. Start with the inner corners of your eyes and dot the liner along the root of your eyelashes. Be sure to follow your eye’s natural curve while going from the innermost corner to the outermost corner.

2. Next, create a line following the dots you created in the previous step, this time make the line thicker. Be sure to extend outwards toward the outer corner of your eye; the extremity of the tilt depends on your preference. If you prefer more drama, extend your line out further and more upward.

3. Next, use an angle eyeshadow brush to smudge and soften the line. The key during this whole process is to get as close to the root of your eyelashes as possible and to keep the line straight and even while doing so.

4. In regards to your lower lid, this line should be thinner and connect with the line created on the upper lid at the outermost corner. I also suggest using the angle brush to soften and smudge this line.

Ladies, when creating this look use a gel or liquid liner for the upper line.

"I Got The Blues"
I have been in love with, and wearing blue eyeliner for years and this past Spring 2010, runways sanctioned this look as a popular trend. Blue Eyeliner is the new Black. From neon hues to elegant blues, ladies of all nationalities are rockin the Blue fabulously. I personally like to combine blue eyeliner with a gold shadow (add a red lip when feeling extra BOLD) for a sexy & strong collaboration.

There are no limits when using eye liner. You can change the shape, enhance the color, create illusions and perform countless other tricks when experimenting with color and technique. Take the time to literally "play" in your makeup and I guarantee you will be amazed at the discoveries you make!

PRODUCT OF THE MONTH COMING SOON!!

Hello all my Beautiful People :)! I am so excited to announce that my first ever Product of the Month will be available in a few short days. It is an item that virtually every woman uses and will be offered at a special rate simply because you are all FABULOUS! I will also be doing a special product giveaway so stay tuned.

Quick Fix - MAC's Fast Response Eye Cream

By far, MAC’s Fast Eye Response Cream is the best and most responsive eye cream on the market. It is literally an eye lift in a tube! As a freelance artist for MAC, I use this product on clients before applying makeup to their faces when necessary. This cream instantly de-puffs, erases the look of dark circles, firms, soothes, and softens skin around the eye. Its special optics work like magic to fade away lines. Although it is a little on the pricey side at $30 for 0.5oz, less then a pea sized amount is needed for both eyes (when I say this is amazing I mean AMAZING!) Before purchasing this product, visit a MAC counter and ask to sample the product and I guarantee you - you will be SOLD.

Quick Fix - Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes

I mean honestly, who really has the energy to wash their face after coming in from a 16 hour day – NO ONE! However, we must not completely ignore our skin. The effects of sleeping in skin that’s been exposed to debris, impurities and dirt, not to mention makeup that has settled in from the day, can be virtually hazardous! I have been guilty on numerous occasions of not cleansing my face before going to bed, and have almost on every occasion, awaken to a breakout of some sort. To prevent this now I always carry a package of Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes with me if I know I will be out until later in the evening, and use one (or two of necessary) of them on the drive home. I literally wait until I am at stoplight and gently wipe my face until the majority of the makeup and/or debris from the day has been removed. The Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes are one product that I absolutely die for and cannot live without. They can be purchased at drug stores, Target, Wal-Mart and grocery stores nationwide. Not to mention they are super frugal at $4.99 per pack. Also remember to change your pillowcase the following morning if you happen to fall asleep without cleansing your face. The residue from the contaminated pillowcase may cause breakouts that can be easily prevented.

Brown Girls Wear RED

Why is it that my Beautiful Brown Girls feel that they cannot wear red lipstick, when in essence, it is the fabulous shades of Caramel & Mocha that work it Best! It is important that we as Fabulous ladies take risks and try new looks that we ordinarily wouldn't go for simply because we believe that we can't "pull them off". The trick to successfully wearing red lipstick is selecting the appropriate shade for your complexion, and properly applying it. For brown skin, any lipstick with a berry to cranberry undertone works best. Also, try colors with shine and/or shimmer to pop on your skin tone. It is important to wear lip liner with a red lip to eliminate the potential bleeding of the color and to perfect the shape of the lip. Select a lip liner color that is identical to the shade of the lipstick or slightly richer. Also, apply the lipstick with a lip brush. This technique allows you to control the amount of color that is applied as you add layers to achieve the perfect amount and look. My personal favorites for brown girls are (in no particular order):

MAC Cosmetics -
Dubonnet
Fresh Moroccan
New York Apple.

Iman Lip Stain in Fire Opal

Shu Uemura Rouge Unlimited Red Lipstick

Revlon ColorBurst Lipstick in Crimson

Remember, red lipstick instantly makes the teeth appear pearly white. Be BOLD and get your red on!

My All-Time FAVORITE Look

Fresh Face Forward

As the seasons change, fashion changes, and make-up trends correspond with fashion. Not that we are basking in the sultry Summer months, women are seeking the hottest new looks, and are eager to part ways with the mundane. More recently, many of my clients have been interested in a look that is effortless, however chic and sophisticated. Women can easily and quickly achieve this frequently sought after look by following some steps.

Step 1 – Be sure to properly cleanse and moisturize your skin prior to applying makeup. During the summer months, use a moisturizer that is lightweight, yet effective and combative against harsh UV rays from the sun.

Step 2 – Apply a face primer such as Smashbox Photofinish Foundation Primer to the entire face once the moisturizer has completely dissolved. The primer will act as a barrier between your skin and the foundation, providing a matte and smooth finish.

Step 3 – Apply a neutral color liquid eye shadow such as MAC Tan Ray Paint over the entire eyelid and brow bone. Be sure to smooth the color out evenly and remove all creases to ensure that it dries down smooth. Once the product dries, apply a neutral color shadow over the entire lid. Use a shadow with a bit of shimmer to brighten the eyes and add some sass. Blend color evenly.

Step 4 – Apply a champagne colored eye shadow such as MAC Shroom to the brow bone. Be sure to not extend the color beyond that area. Blend color evenly.

Step 5 – To create definition, apply a mute brown colored eye shadow to the crease of the eye and the outer corner. Once this color is blended evenly, take the champagne color that was previously applied to the brow bone and lightly apply it to the inner corners of the eye.

Step 6 – Apply a line of black liquid eyeliner across the upper lash line, gradually increasing the width of the line from the inner corner to the outer. Use a liner brush to apply the muted brown eye shadow to the bottom lash line. Gently smudge the muted brown liner just beneath the bottom lash line for a more dramatic look.

Step 7 – Apply a lightweight liquid foundation over the entire face. Use this as an opportunity to clean up any residue from the eye shadow and/or eyeliner. Apply liquid concealer to any imperfections that weren’t concealed by the primer.

Step 8 – Using a wide fluffy powder brush, apply an iridescent loose powder such as MAC Skinfinish Natural over the entire face with the exception of the eyes.

Step 9 – Using an angle blush brush or the wide fluffy powder brush, apply bronzer just below the cheekbones, along the hairline and chin. Be sure to initially apply lightly and gradually increase the amount of product.

Step 10 – Using the same wide fluffy powder brush, apply a shimmer powder such as Estee Lauder Signature 5-Tone Shimmer powder to the cheekbones, apples of the cheeks and bridge of the nose. Be sure not to go to heavy with shimmer powder to prevent the disco ball look!

Step 11 – Line the lips with a neutral color lipliner such as MAC Cork lip liner. Next, apply a neutral color lipstick such as Smashbox Photo Finish Lipstick in Flawless. If you are a gloss kind-of-girl, add MAC C-Thru Lipglass to finish off the look.

Step 12 – Apply two coats of a lengthening black mascara such as Maybelline Great Lash to the lashes.

These steps will leave you fabulously chic and ready to put your fresh face forward. To showcase the face and keep cool place hair in a sleek pony, bun or French braid. These hairstyles go great with this make up look.

Nude Lips

My absolute favorite lip of all time has to be the nude lip. It's chic and subtle, yet glamorous and bold all at the same time. The Summer is the best time to rock this lip since we do away with heavier makeup and opt for simple lightweight looks. I always say a nude lip, loads of black mascara, and a hint of bronzer is the perfect Summer time look.

MakeUp Tips

I decided to make the initial post on my blog a brief list of makeup/skincare tips that I absolutely live by. It's so important as fabulous women that we put our best face forward!! Enjoy :) 

Makeup should only be applied to cleansed, toned, and moisturized skin. When cleansing your face, the cleanser should be applied, and worked into dry skin with the fingertips. Next, rinse the skin thoroughly (up to 15 times) and blot. Once the skin is blotted, an alcohol free toner should be applied, followed by a moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type. The majority of cleansers manufactured today contain a Ph level sufficient enough to forgo the toner. Using a skin primer on top of your moisturizer helps the makeup application go on smoother and last longer.

 

When applying eye shadows three shadows should be used: a light color, a medium color, and a darker color. Generally the medium shade is applied first and is used over the entire eyelid, from the lash line to the natural crease. Next, the lightest shade is used as a highlighter and applied to the brow bone area. In some instances, the lighter color can be applied first and used all over the eye area from the lash line area to the area just below the brow bone. Finally the darkest shade should be used in the crease of the eye and blended up or out. This will provide contrast, giving the eye definition.

Every eye color has certain eye shadow colors that accentuate and make them POP!
Blue Eyes: Peaches/Rust/Terra Cotta, Mauves, Browns
Green/Hazel Eyes: Pinks, Lavender, Purples
Brown Eyes: Plums, Charcoal, Muted Greens

Your makeup brushes should be properly cleansed with brush cleanser at lest every one to two weeks to ensure that they have longer lasting life and the highest level of hygiene. Good, professional brushes can last up to 10 years if properly taken care of. Brush cleansers can be purchased at virtually any department or cosmetic store. I personally recommend MAC Brush Cleanser and Bobbi Brown Conditioning Brush Cleanser.

Pencil thin eyebrows are a definite NO. Eyebrows frame the eyes and should always be properly groomed and shaped. Go for a fuller eyebrow with a definite shape. The arch of the eyebrow should be straight up from the outside edge of the iris. I recommend the Eyebrow Threading technique. It gives a cleaner more polished look and lasts longer then waxing.