Thursday, November 25, 2010

Fabulous Stocking Stuffers

Happy Thanksgiving Dolls! Can you believe that 2010 is almost over, CRAZY RIGHT? Well you know what that means.....it's gift giving time. This process is exciting for those of us who are great gift givers, however I am a horrible at selecting gifts for people and ALWAYS wait until the very last minute to shop. For those of you who fall into the same category as me I have created a list of "Fabulous Stocking Stuffers" for the Ladies in your life. The list consists of products that I either have or want so I figured that other Divas would appreciate them as well. Enjoy :)

1. MAC Cosmetics - She's Got it All Apply, Line & Define Brush Collection


This brush set is PERF for the lady who loves to dress up her eyes and try different eye looks, but doesn't have the proper tools. I cannot stress enough how essential it is to utilize the correct brushes when applying eye makeup. In addition to the fabulous brushes, the collection comes with a fabulous tartan plaid bag to carry them in which fits into any purse. This kit retails at $49.50 and can be purchased at all MAC locations (stores and counters) and online - http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/2221/12890/Shes-Got-it-All-Apply-Define-Line-Brush-Collection/index.tmpl

2. Clarisonic Skincare Brush



Estheticians utilize this brush when performing facials on virtually every skin type. It removes makeup six times better than traditional methods, Clears pores and reduces the appearance of pore size, Cleanses so thoroughly that skincare products absorb better, and Creates noticeably healthier looking skin. If your skin is problematic in any way I guarantee that using this product will drastically improve its appearance. It retails for $195, however it prevents you from ever needing a facial again making it well worth the price!! I suggest making the brush a part of your everyday skincare regimen, however using it once daily (at night) is extremely effective as well. The Clarisonic Skincare Brush can be purchased at Nordstrom, Sephora, or online - http://www.clarisonic.com/

3. Lancome Cils Booster XL Super Enhancing Mascara Base



One main trend among my clients is that many of them don't own or use a mascara primer or base, but can't seem to understand why their mascara isn't providing the affect they desire. HELLO LADIES.........you need a base! While mascaras are designed to either create volume, length, curl or a combination of the three, depending upon the consistency of the product and the shape of the wand, they can be difficult to apply smoothly. However all mascaras work effortlessly with a base or primer and this particular one by far is my favorite. Lancome’s Mascara Base separates and defines lashes, creating exceptional length and volume. This product retails at $22.00 and can be purchased at Nordstrom, Sephora and all other retail locations where Lancome products are sold.

4. Deborah Lippmann 'Layer Cake' Nail Color Trio



While working at the MAC counter in Nordstrom, I stumbled across the most FABULOUS nail color trio that I absolutely die for. The Nordstrom website describes it as: An uber-chic polish trio featuring Wicked Game (swirling lavender grey), Happy Birthday (party in a bottle) and Dark Side of the Moon (absolutely aubergine). I like to paint the nails on one hand with Wicked Game and the opposite hand with Dark Side of the Moon, then top both hands off with Happy Birthday (it really is a party in a bottle). For the less flashy lady alternate manicures with Wicked Game and Dark Side of the Moon. Also, not only are the colors Fab but they are in trend for the season so you can't loose. This trio retails at $25.00 and can be purchased at Nordstrom locations or online - http://shop.nordstrom.com/

5. Amazing Grace


These chilly wintry months cause our skin to become dry and tight. Philosphy's Amazing Grace perfumed hot salt, tub and shower scrub works fabulously to soften and smooth the skin. In addition to the supple skin that is left after using the scrub, a feminine and clean smell remains that lingers throughout the day. This scrub retails are $25.00 for 23 oz and is available wherever Philosophy products are sold, or online - http://www.philosophy.com/

I hope that my list of items inspired you and provided ideas for your own personal lists (LOL) or gifts to buy for your loved ones. Other gift ideas include mani/pedi giftcards, MAC's 5 Sassy Neutral Lassies Lipglass set, and a subscription to Vogue or InStyle magazines.

Also Ladies, take a moment to think about those less fortunate and lend a helping hand this holiday season :) Happy Holidays

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Makeup Questions

Hey Guys. If you ever have any questions at all regarding the posts I've written or about makeup and/or skincare in general please don't hesitate to shoot me an email. I love and NEED inspiration at all times. I will either create a post or respond via email. I love to talk about makeup & help people discover what works best for them. Thanks for your support!

Love,
April

Kabuki Krazy

Happy Wednesday Dolls! I hope that you are all having a Fabulous week thus far. So.....if you follow me on Twitter, you may have seen my tweets singing praises to blush, one of my favorite, and one of the most necessary, cosmetic items for this time of the year specifically. We focus so much energy on perfecting that smokey eye or nude lip, and totally forget about the space between the two. Makeup application is about a balanced and complete look Dolls. Don't ignore the cheeks!

Blush is the product that will accentuate those lovely cheekbones when you smile, while adding much needed color to the face. While blush brings radiance to you face, it is important to know the proper ways to apply it. There are 3 techniques that I utilize when applying blush:

1. Applelonia - When utilizing this technique focus solely on the apples of the cheek and apply the color in round strokes to this area. I suggest smiling in order to find them. Finish off with some matte bronzer as a contour to further accentuate the apples.
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2. Windburn - Windburn is my absolute FAVE technique for the Winter months. This look is natural giving the skin a healthy & flushed appearance. Apply the color to the apples of the cheeks and blend outward into hairline. Be sure that the color is evenly swept over the cheeks.
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3. Blushbaby - This technique is for that girl who absolutely LOVES blush and color! First apply the color to the apples of the cheeks, next blend both outward to the ears and upward to the temples. Next lightly apply the color to the hairline surrounding the forehead making sure to blend well. Lightly dust some color from the chin outward along the jawline. Again BLEND BLEND BLEND!
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I suggest utilizing a creme blush as a base when utilizing any of these techniques. Also, gradually apply the color to you face. Blush is totally buildable. Don't be afraid of color - EXPERIMENT! That's the beauty of makeup, you can take it off ;) Have a Fab rest of the week Beauties.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

My FAVORITE Fall 2010 Look

Happy Humpday Beauties :) I know that I have been tweeting you to death about my favorite Fall look, consisting of a deep plum lip, icy gold eye & luminous pretty skin. Well low and behold I have a picture for you!! FINALLY! Yesterday, my girlfriend & I decided to have an impromptu photo shoot while waiting for the elevator at Wildfire Restaurant LOL. I hope you like it, I'm not much of a poser. HAHA


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