Thursday, November 3, 2011

MAC Cosmetics GLITTER AND ICE: HOLIDAY COLOUR COLLECTION


I almost DIED when I came across MAC's new holiday collection, Glitter and Ice; I mean seriously what more can a Glam Girl ask for? I am a Lover of all things that sparkle so this collection was created especially for me. The line consists of MAC favorites: Mineralize Eye Shadow, Paint Pot, Opulash Mascara, Tecknakohl Liner, False Lashes, Lipstick, Dazzleglass, Beauty Powder & Nail Lacquer all "glitterized" and wrapped in fabulous customized packaging. In true MAC fashion, each product features a broad range of colors to captivate the very broad MAC demographic. I am personally obsessed with the gorgeous cool blue Tecknakohl Liners, and the fabulous Lipsticks ranging from matte red to shimmering silver. Glitter and Ice is the perfect collection to transform any girl into a Glam Goddess. The festive shades will give you the perfect look for holiday parties and events. Visit Mac Cosmetics - http://www.maccosmetics.com to review the collection.

Thursday, October 20, 2011

All About Face - Organic Skincare

All women want gorgeous glowing skin and spend the majority of their lives attempting to achieve it through thousands of dollars spent on esthetician visits and various product purchases. Images of picture perfect woman in the media cause us to grow insecure about our skin issues, but let’s face it, Halle Berry has a very high disposable income unlike us everyday Fabs, and can afford a renown dermatologist. And let’s not forget about genetics. Genetics play quite a huge factor in determining our skin-types and the way we react to certain products. My mother has combination skin with larger pores, and consequently I too have combination skin with larger pores. However upon moving to LA earlier this year, I acquired a new skin condition – discoloration from previous breakouts. After attempting many products featured in fancy ad campaigns featuring celebrities and not getting the results I seeked, I opted to try an all-natural remedy. My research led me to Eucalypto Organics – Skin Essentials Oil Free Facial Moisturizer. This product was appealing to me mainly because I could pronounce, and was familiar with every product listed in the ingredients. How rare is this! The certified organic moisturizer consists of (in this order):


Aloe Vera - Lightens dark spots on the face and reduces the intensity of pigmentation

Witch Hazel - Often used as a cleanser or toner to reduce pore size and for the treatment of acne

Neroli - Helps to stimulate the cells and improve the look of the skin

Lavender - Stimulates cell growth, reduces inflammation, prevents scarring and balances the production of oil

Ylang Ylang - Reduces oil production and fights bacteria to reduce and prevent the appearance of blemishes and acne

Blood Orange - Serves as a detoxifier, boosts immunity, and is very good for maintaining healthy, smooth and glamorous skin

Grapefruit - Has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, applying it topically can promote exfoliation

Sandlewood - Battles the bacteria and oil that block pores and cause blackheads and pimples

Chamomile - Softening agent for rough or irritated skin, anti-inflammatory & antiseptic

I have been using it for a few weeks now and can see a gradual improvement. I haven't experienced any irritation or adverse affects. Incorporate it into your skin care gradually if you are apprehensive about using it generously. Eucalypto Organics - Skin Essentials Oil Free Facial Moisturizer can be purchased online - http://www.etsy.com/listing/82044095/organic-oil-free-facial-moisturizer

Remember that there are plethoras of skin types and it is important that we learn to treat our own uniquely. What works for your sister or best friend may not work for you. DO YOUR RESEARCH. Find out which products irritate your personal skin type before failing to victim to the Neutrogena commercials! Be FABULOUS in the skin you’re in.

Xoxo

PS. I also recently started taking Biotin daily to improve the condition of my skin, nails & hair. What other dietary supplements work phenomenally?

We Found Love

My best friend Kim forwarded me the link for Rihanna's new music video "We Found Love" and I literally DIED when I saw it. This video is TRUE ART! I am an avid RiRi fan and am obsessed with her strong sense of individuality and free spirit, not to mention everything about her is Fabulous. I posted the video below. Enjoy!

Monday, October 10, 2011

Fabulous Fringe

Happy Tuesday Beautiful people! I absolutely LOVE this time of the year. The seasons have officially changed (even for us LA folks) and gorgeous Fall is finally upon us. GET EXCITED! One of the major reasons I have for being obsessed with Fall is the amazing fashion and makeup that the season brings. From dark vampy lipsticks to knee high suede boots to beautiful knit scarves, I LOVE it ALL. This year in particular I have been infatuated with fringe and incorporating into my wardrobe on a pretty regular basis. My two favorite fringe pieces are my mustard yellow cable knit fringe scarf from Forever 21 and my Go Make Noise grey cropped sweater with fringe tassles. The scarf is extremely versatile and is the perfect accessory to any look, while the sweater can be dressed up or down depending on your personal style and/or mood. Fringe adds personality to any piece of clothing and gives your total ensemble a bit of edge. Always remember to take any trend and make it your own. Stay true to your personal style.

**Thrift Stores & Flea Market are great places to find bargains on fabulous fringe finds. My Fave spots in LA are Wasteland on Melrose & the Fairfax Flea Market.

Reverse Kaftan with Fringing and Cut Out Back - www.asos.com

ASOS Premium Leather Fringe Beaded Weave Clutch Bag - www.asos.com


Isabel Marant Manly Suede and Leather knee boots - www.net-a-porter.com

Mustard Cable Knit Scarf - www.ustopshop.com

Moschino Cheap and Chic
Fringed Leather Jacket - www.theoutnet.com

Asos Oversized Hoop Earring With Fringed Tassle - www.asos.com

Sunday, August 21, 2011

Let Your Colors Burst!

Happy Sunday Beauties!! As I was going through my closet attempting to find an outfit to wear to brunch, I became inspired to write this blog. Since moving to LA I have embraced the gorgeous weather and become open to incorporating more color into my wardrobe, and not limiting it to my face and feet. I'll admit that I was the self-proclaimed Queen of a "splash of color", but now I am literally a walking colorburst and I LOVE IT! I love pairing a bright colored babydoll dress with a pair of sky-high platforms in a complimentary hue. And opaque tights in the colors of navy, burgundy and dark purple bring life to my uninteresting neutral ensembles. When I want to make my ensemble more interesting I normally make my shoe selection first and build from there. While wearing black does make your silhouette appear slimmer, color gives you life and personality.

**Color coordinating your closet aids in making wardrobe selections.






Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Gorgeous Orange

Anyone who knows me understands that I am an "allBlackerrything" Chick to the max, however I have recently fallen in love with the various shades of orange currently being featured on the runways, in fashions mags & throughout my favorite retailers. And, let's not forget about when JHud literally lit up the Oscars this year in that infamous tangerine Versace number she rocked. Orange is rich, vibrant and simply gorgeous. I love pairing a fabulous top or dress in the hue with shades of blue, its complementary color. Ladies, the LOD (little orange dress) is a staple for Spring/Summer 2011 that will not go unnoticed. Visit www.asos.com, www.shopstyle.com, or your other other favorite retailers to find the perfect style and hue for you.








Monday, May 23, 2011

Bright Lips

Bright Lips are all the rave for the Spring/Summer 2011. Not only do bright bold gorgeous hues eloquently add a pop of color to the face, they also accentuate the cheekbones without having to apply blush, highlight or contour. Oranges, pinks & reds are currently popular with virtually all cosmetic lines creating new lip products in these color families. I'm currently obsessed with orange-gold hues (MAC's Fresh Moroccan) and fuschias (Revlon Colorburst in Fuschia). Remember to opt for long wear formulas when exposing the skin to the heat and humidity for extensive periods of time. The next time your perusing the cosmetics section at your local drug store or department store, experiment with eccentric lip colors. Get your shine on Baby!







Friday, April 8, 2011

Diary of a Product Junky: Entry #6

Happy Friday Beautiful People! I hope this week has been Fabulous for all of you. Since I moved to LA, I have struggled with my skin getting acclimated (as you all know), and finding a hair stylist who is comparable to my DC stylist Mahadeo. After being referred to a couple of salons in the area, I visited one that gave me an enjoyable experience that left me satisfied. While being serviced, the stylist's assistant used a product on my hair that I absolutely fell in love with, Organic Root Stimulator Edge Control. After interrogating her about the uses and ingredients of the product I immediately went to Wal-Mart and purchased it. This product is extremely effective on my natural hair in its wet and/or dry state. My favorite feature(s) is that it is neither oily or dry, and leaves hair smooth and polished, with a good amount of moisture and shine. It retails on average for $4.99 and can be purchased at most Wal-Mart and Walgreens locations, as well as Beauty Supply Stores.

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Bottom Lash Falsies: Fabu Or Not?



While I DIE FOR a great pair of false lashes, I have never worn falsies on my bottom lash line. While this look is interesting and looks quite exquisite in ad campaigns, on the red carpet, and on the runway, I would opt for loads of MAC False Lashes Mascara for an everyday Fab like myself. What do you Dolls think? Is this look Fabulous, or to eccentric/unnatural?

**I recommend DUO Water Proof Eyelash Adhesive to apply lashes and MAC Cleanse Off Oil (it's both gentle & strong) to remove them.

Thursday, March 31, 2011

Solange's Spring Swag


While checking out one of my favorite celebrity sites I came across this Gorgeous picture of Solange Knowles rocking the most perfect color combination last night at the Victoria's Secret Swim 2011 Collection Event here in LA. The minimalist eye and face makeup complete with a velvety coral lip (this season's Hottest Trend), perfectly compliments her festive ensemble. Although at times her looks are a tad bit eclectic for my taste, you have to love and admire Solange's Personal Style.

Monday, March 28, 2011

Diary of a Product Junky: Entry #5

Happy Monday Dolls! If you follow me on Twitter you have been subjected to my frequent complaints about the current condition of my skin. Well in pursuit of the perfect remedy for my skin woes, I have recently attempted a plethora of products. One of those products was AMBI EVEN & CLEAR Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30. I was extremely excited to try this product after reading some of the reviews, and researching the ingredients and there effects on the skin. However, after using it for a few weeks my skin condition worsened and my overall experience was disappointing. The oily moisturizer sits directly on top of the skin and doesn't permeate through, leaving an unwanted layer of product. This not only makes the skin feel slick, but doesn't provide the appropriate canvas for a makeup application. I definitely wouldn't recommend this product for people with oily, combination, or congested skin.

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Passion for PINK

Those of you who know me personally understand my infatuation and obsession with a fabulous Pink lip. I don't discriminate; I love all shades of Pink respectively and equally. This post includes some of my favorite makeup looks that perfectly incorporate a pink lip as the focal point. Use them as inspiration Fabs. Spring is the Perf time for these looks. Find the shade(s) that works for you and rock that thang! Remember, minimal eye makeup should compliment the lip.













Email me pics of your Fav/Fab pink lip so I can post. Inspire others to be fierce & bold Baby!

Monday, March 7, 2011

I'm A Proud Unconventional Beauty

Since I was a little girl I have been teased about my large forehead. However, over the years I have learned to embrace and accept it as something that makes me unique and Beautiful. Unconventional Beauty is interesting and much more fun to paint on! In the four years I've been a licensed practicing MUA (makeup artist), I've come across many Beauties who have requested that I figure out ways to camouflage their quirky features - from large lips to wide-set eyes. While us MUA's have a plethora of techniques utilizing certain products and colors that can satisfy requests such as these, I spend a great deal of time Preaching ACCEPTANCE & EMBRACING!! When I am asked to minimize the forehead, I empathize because of the personal connection I feel to the makeover, and use one of (or a combination of) the following techniques:

1. Apply a light bronzer to each temple and blend. This will create a shadow effect causing the head to look more rounded.

2. (Heart Shape Face) Contour at the temples and cheeks to diminish the width of your upper face.

3. Contour on the corners of either side of your forehead and across the hairline.

**Your contour color that should be 2 shades darker than your foundation with the same undertone. Be sure to BLEND BABY BLEND!


Beautiful Large Foreheaded Goddesses



Thursday, February 24, 2011

Diary of a Product Junky: Entry #4

Greetings Dolls! I hope that everyone had a Fabulous Valentine's Day and celebrated with someone that you Die For! As many of you know, I recently relocated to Los Angeles, and while the west coast is a DREAM, the smog in the air has been a total and absolute nightmare for my skin. While I struggled from time to time with the occasional congestion on my cheeks due to blush and weave (yes I said it!), it wasn't until I arrived in sunny LA that I experienced forehead, nose & chin break-outs. Being the self-proclaimed Product Junky that I am, I immediately began testing various popular and recommended cleansers determined to eradicate myself of this new issue. After receiving no luck from the products, I perused the aisles at CVS until deciding upon Neutrogena's Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power-Clear Scrub, and man oh man am I elated that I did. This scrub is phenomenal providing my skin with the correct balance of moisture, exfoliant, cleanser and medication. Best of all it retails for under $10.00 and is more effective than comparable pricier products. Have any of you tried this product and if so, how was your experience?

Saturday, January 29, 2011

Flawless Finish: Dior DiorSkin AirFlash Spray Foundation


As we all know I'm a SLAVE to the MAC brand and am pretty much as Loyal as it gets, however while perusing the various makeup counters at Bloomingdales, I was magnetically drawn to the Dior counter, and more specifically the DiorSkin AirFlash Spray Foundation. The initial attraction was based on the similarities between this product and MAC's Studio Mist Foundation. Both were foundations, in a spray can, that were comparable to airbrush makeup, however after experiencing the DiorSkin AirFlash Spray Foundation it became clear to me that the technology and quality of this product far surpassed that of MAC's discontinued version. This ultra fluid mist spray delivers a smooth and natural finish that is both flawless and fresh. The foundation can be used in conjunction with a sheer concealer but works well at diminishing fine lines and camouflaging uneven skin on its own. Be sure to apply to skin that is clean, moisturized and primed to achieve the maximum effect. Spray a small amount of the product directly onto skin and immediately buff in with a stippling brush. This product retails for $60 and can be purchased online via http://www.sephora.com/, http://www.dior.com/, and http://www.bloomingdales.com/. Also, visit any Sephora, Bloomingdales or Dior stand alone store to experience and/or purchase the product. I promise you will DIE FOR IT!

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Look of the Day: Michelle Obama in Vogue's Top Ten Fashion Divas


Just when you thought that Mrs. Obama couldn't be anymore Fabulous, she is named by Vogue magazine as one of the top ten best-dressed ladies, and rightfully so. Michelle has impeccable style, effortless grace, and unparalleled sophistication that few are blessed with. She continues to raise eyebrows and challenge conservatives with her unorthodox fashion choices, while simultaneously providing Fabs everywhere with a living, breathing "What TO Wear" guide.

Get the Makeup Look:
Skin: Line Minimizing Primer, Smooth & Velvety Matte Foundation
Eyes: Smokey Blue with Pale Purple in Crease, Smokey Blue as Lower Lash Liner, Champagne Brow Highlight, Loads of Curling Black Mascara
Cheeks: Highlight- Bridge of Nose & Above the Hollows of the Cheeks, Contour- Hollows of Cheeks, Mauve Blush on Apples
Lips: Plum Liner, Matte Plum Lipstain

Monday, January 17, 2011

Spring 2011 Trend: Pretty Pastel Eyes

Hello Dolls! It's been far too long since the last time we conversed. Life took over and I was forced to concede, however I'm happy to be back sharing makeup (and fashion) tips, tricks & looks with you all of you Fabs. It is super hard to believe that it is already January 2011 and Spring is right around the corner, which is from where the inspiration for this post derived. We all know that I love GLAM GLAM GLAM and Pastel Eyes give Glam but in a subtle manner. The genius of Pastel Eyes is that it looks great on virtually everyone and suits a plethora of personalities & ages, depending upon the shade selection and the application technique(s). Create a look that's soft and fun for those GORG Spring days!!









To add more GLAM to the look, apply a layer of irridescent shadow or loose glitter in the same hue over the shadow and/or load the lower lashes with colored mascara in the same hue. AMAZING!