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.

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!

Diary of a Product Junky: Entry #3

With the plethora of mascaras on the market today, it's difficult to decipher which brand truly makes the best product. Being a makeup artist and certified product junky, I can honestly say that I've easily tried at least 20 types of mascaras, and my best experience was with Lancome's Hypnôse Drama. The full contact S-shaped curved brush grasps and loads lashes for a fanned out, eye-popping, full body fringe. It is the best quality mascara at its price point and definitely worth the expense. This mascara is literally drama in a bottle. It retails for $24.50 and can be purchased at Sephora locations nationwide.

“If the Eyes are the Windows to the Soul, the Eyebrows are the Drapes.......”

"If the eyes are the windows to the soul, then the eyebrows must be the drapes, and there’s nothing sexier than a pair of swanky curtains." How appropriate and hilarious is that quote? Ladies, Ladies, Ladies I cannot stress enough the importance of properly groomed brows. They frame not only your eyes, but literally your entire face, and unkempt or improperly shaped brows are extremely unacceptable. How many of us can admit to having an unfortunate experience when having our eyebrows done? I know that I have cried after having mine waxed by a non-reputable and/or not formally trained technician. This is a common mistake that we all have made. Don’t allow any facility or person who “does eyebrows” to do your eyebrows, BE PICKY!! I recommend visiting a boutique that specializes in eyebrows or allowing ONLY a professionally trained Esthetician groom your brows.

The following options are available for grooming brows:

1. Waxing - Eyebrow waxing is hands down the most popular option used and has been in practice for decades and decades. This option is fairly inexpensive and last anywhere from three to ten weeks depending upon the individual. Possible consequences of waxing include red, irritated skin, a slight burning or itchy feeling, or even a minor rash in the area where the wax was applied. This is more common when using physician prescribed topical treatments for acne or other skin conditions. Keep in mind that waxing is quicker, but removes massive amounts of hair in one strip allowing a higher margin for mistake. This is not an issue if the technician is experienced and properly trained.

2. Threading (My personal FAVORITE) - Threading is an ancient method of hair removal which originated in parts of India, the Middle and Far East, and is now gaining popularity in Western countries. 100% cotton thread is twisted and rolled along the surface of the skin entwining the hairs in the thread, which are then lifted quickly from the follicle. It is more precise than waxing and allows for better lines. Threading is highly recommended and an excellent option for those who use Retin-A, Accutane, or similar products.

3. Electrolysis - Electrolysis involves the use of a special electrode that delivers a minor electrical shock current to the hair follicle. The current kills the follicle at the same time as it removes unwanted hair. Because the hair is often in different stages of growth, electrolysis treatment may need to be repeated two or three times to make certain that all of the unwanted hair is successfully removed. This option must be performed by a licensed & trained professional because any mistake is irreversible. This is also obviously the most expensive of the four options, but only a few treatments are necessary.

4. Tweezing - Many women who choose to groom their eyebrows personally use the tweezing technique. Plucking with tweezers can be extremely painful initially but once the skin gets accustomed to the process the pain subsides. This option is the least popular because it requires the longest amount of time to complete. Tweezing will almost ALWAYS be used at the end of both the waxing and threading techniques to clean up the excess hairs.

No matter what option you select to groom your eyebrows, the shape is the most important part of the process. The eyebrow shape can enhance & frame your eyes, and balance your features. I have listed below some tips regarding how to properly shape your eyebrows.

Eyebrow Tips:

1. The highest arch of the eyebrow should be straight up from the outside edge of the iris. A straight edge, such as a ruler can be used to determine exactly where this line falls.

2. Pencil thin eyebrows are a definite NO! They cause the eyes to appear larger and is reminiscent of the 20's. Opt for a fuller eyebrow with a definite shape. However, be conscious of your personal features. Stronger features are complimented by stronger, fuller eyebrows, while delicate features are balanced by softer eyebrows.

3. Symmetry is the key component when properly grooming the eyebrows. Remember that the space between your eyebrows should be equal to the width of your eye.

4. Your eyebrows aren't twins, or sisters. They are more like cousins. It is virtually impossible for them to be perfectly identical!

5. Brow gel helps keep your brows in place all day. If you don't have gel, apply a dab of hairspray to your finger and apply to brows to keep unruly hairs in place. This tip is dedicated to my bushy eyebrow sistahs :)! Embrace the gel.

6. When filling in your brows, two colors are better then one! Use a lighter color on the thicker fuller part of your brows and a darker color at the tail ends. This is a trick that many celebrity pros use on their clients. Could also wet the brush when applying the color to the tail ends to darken the shadow as a opposed to using two colors.

7. When selecting an eyebrow powder opt for a soft-textured matte shadow that matches your hair color. Apply with an angle brush (that is used for eyeliner as well) and use short soft strokes that extend upward and out.

8. Using an eyebrow pencil to fill-in the brows is my personal favorite, however it can be difficult to master initially. Many women apply it incorrectly creating harsh strong lines that are visible to others. For a more natural look, use short soft thin strokes that "look like hair" and remember to blend with a firm eyebrow brush after applying. Also be sure that the pencil provides a dry finish as opposed to a wet finish.

9. Experts say that the ideal time for brow-shaping is the week after your period begins. Apparently it's the time during your cycle when your body is least sensitive to hair removal.

Every woman must ultimately find the most complimentary eyebrow shape for their individual face shape and features whether it be high arch, rounded arch or no arch. Look to your friends, co-workers and other people for inspiration when selecting an Eyebrow Guru. If you admire their brows, then schedule a consultation and express your wants as a client. Once again, BE PICKY!! Your eyebrows are extremely important and need to be treated with TLC.

BLACK VS. BLUE

Recently my girlfriend Ashlee called me requesting suggestions for what type of makeup she should wear with blue mascara. I immediately told her the obvious answer according to her personal coloring (she is a caramel complected Black girl)- silver, purple & blue eye shadows with a nude or sheer pink colored lip gloss. But after talking to her I begin to think about the magic of colored mascara as a whole. I have always kept a blue mascara around for those days when I decided I wanted to make my dark brown eyes truly POP, but there are other colored mascaras that compliment and add subtle drama to eyes of all shades without making the wearer look as if he or she is attending a rave on Halloween!

For Brown Eyes - Turquoise & Navy Hues
For Blue Eyes - Purple & Brown Hues
For Green Eyes - Purple Hues (go richer)
For All Eyes - Rich Burgundy

Remember to conscious of the eye shadow you are wearing to compliment the colored mascara. Great rule of thumb when you are unsure about what combination(s) to wear - KEEP IT NATURAL & NEUTRAL. Have fun with different colors and don't be afraid to change it up!

Bedazzle Your Lashes

For Prom Season 2010 the common product I used on my girls was diamond-studded false lashes. I DIE for these because they are right up my alley - Rhinestones & Glitter! These gorgeous additions create an extra level of attitude to any makeup look, but are still simply pretty and elegant. The main concern people have with these are whether or not the lashes will feel heavy and weigh down the eyelid. From personal experience, and feedback I've received from my clients, the diamond-studded lashes felt identical to the normal lashes worn everyday by most celebrities. I recommend Ardell brand False Eyelashes because they have a fantastic selection and are quite inexpensive compared to other brands of equal quality. They can be purchased at Sally's Beauty Supply stores and other drug stores nationwide. For more information and to view their products visit their website at http://www.ardelllashes.com/.


Follow these steps to successfully apply the lashes:

1. False eyelashes may be trimmed in width or length to suit your eye size or personal preference. (Try original length before cutting.) Always cut from the outer lashes (the end with thicker and longer lashes) when trimming.
2. Apply fake eyelash glue sparingly to lash band. I recommend DUO brand Eyelash Adhesive.
3. Wait at least 10 seconds for adhesive to become sticky.
4. Position false eyelashes slightly above your natural lash with tweezers and press ends into place.
5. Gently press across entire lash until set.
6. To remove, dab either waterproof eye makeup remover or fake eyelash remover on the lashline with a cotton swab. Allow product to soak then gently peel false eyelashes band off lid, starting at outer corner. (I sometimes honestly just wash my face with my cleanser and the lashes are loosened and easy to remove.)
7. Remove adhesive from band and place your false eyelashes back to the tray for re-use.

These lashes are FUN FUN FUN to say the least and I promise you will fall in love with them!

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!