Haul away at 25% off everything, then come back and tell me what you got ;)
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Origins Friends and Family Event
Haul away at 25% off everything, then come back and tell me what you got ;)
NARS Haul featuring Summer 2009
Introducing the newest members of my growing Nars Family. These were gifted to me by some very special people. <3>
L-R: Schiap & Sephora Flame
Grendines is a beautiful matte raspberry shade released with the Spring 2009 collection
Tropic is a stunning dark matte teal base with huge flecks of silver glitter. Be prepared for some glitter fallout, but this color makes up for it
South Pacific is a duo of cool medium blues, both a shimmer and a matte
Meditarranee is an amazing duo of cream and coppery orange. If you don't own it, you need it!
Scorching Sun is a new release for the summer as well. It is a stunning combo of oranges (light and medium) that just screams sunny days. Can't wait to wear pair this with Galapagos!
Schiap, we all know this color well. It is a matte hot pink with blue undertones, and I know for a fact that Christina Aguilera rocks this color quite often. Pair it with Hot Wired Lacquer and its love!
Sephora Flame is a limited edition shade released for Sephora's 10th anniversary. It is a deep brown based red, and I love it with a hint of gloss on top! I will save this one for the fall/winter!
Here you have swatches, brought to you by my hand and my Canon G10 ;)
Schiap & Sephora Flame
L-R: Schiap & Sephora Flame
Grendines is a beautiful matte raspberry shade released with the Spring 2009 collectionTropic is a stunning dark matte teal base with huge flecks of silver glitter. Be prepared for some glitter fallout, but this color makes up for it
South Pacific is a duo of cool medium blues, both a shimmer and a matte
Meditarranee is an amazing duo of cream and coppery orange. If you don't own it, you need it!
Scorching Sun is a new release for the summer as well. It is a stunning combo of oranges (light and medium) that just screams sunny days. Can't wait to wear pair this with Galapagos!
Schiap, we all know this color well. It is a matte hot pink with blue undertones, and I know for a fact that Christina Aguilera rocks this color quite often. Pair it with Hot Wired Lacquer and its love!
Sephora Flame is a limited edition shade released for Sephora's 10th anniversary. It is a deep brown based red, and I love it with a hint of gloss on top! I will save this one for the fall/winter!
Here you have swatches, brought to you by my hand and my Canon G10 ;)
Schiap & Sephora Flame
The shadows:
A Few Portfolio Shots
Another one for my blast from the past series.I have dabbled a bit in modeling, but lack the resources to pursue it at the level I would want. Building a professional portfolio takes money, something I am short on unfortunately.
Here are a few shots that I have completed.
Last Day to Enter Philosophy Giveaway!
Don't forget, its your last day to enter my giveaway for a full sized Philosophy Shower Gel in Red Velvet Cake!All you have to do for a chance to win is subscribe to my emails (widget is on the right). Become a follower here and get a second chance to win!
Winner will be announced tomorrow!
Good luck :-D
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Serena Williams Signature Statement- More Accessories for the Recessionista
Presenting Part 2 of my Fashion Recessionista Series.
Today, I would like to introduce you all to another wonderful collaboration. This time, it is Serena Williams who is making a splash in the fashion world with her specially-made for HSN line of affordable accessories, fashion, and jewelry pieces, entitled Serena Williams Signature Statement.
Excerpt from Serena Williams' Bio:
"As one of the most celebrated athletes, she is recognized by the mere mention of her first name. Serena has won countless tennis titles, tournaments, grand slams, and has even won an Olympic Gold Medal.
Fashion, designing, and acting are a few of Serena’s many passions. Vogue Magazine, on a VH1/Vogue Television Special, named her one of the top “Fashion Trendsetters,” yet it doesn’t stop there. Serena is deeply committed to philanthropic causes. She visits schools and hospitals, and conducts tennis clinics for at-risk youth around the world."
Flowing Floral Reversible Pashmina Wrap $44.95
6.42 ct Pave CZ Open Shoulders Dome Ring $64.95
I do hope that you will check out the line. I know I will!
As Serena herself has said:
"All of my pieces are designed with love to offer you feminine and elegant beauty that you can wear all of the time. Know that a part of my heart goes into every piece and I hope my collection inspires you to make your very own signature statement for your lifestyle!”
For more info, please check out HSN.com by clicking HERE and don't forget to tune in April 30th at 10:00 PM, May 1st at 8:00 PM, and May 2nd at 10:00 AM, all ESTand hsn.com
Signature Scents
Now you know what I am talking about. That one perfume that you always go back to, the one you can't get enough of. It turns heads, gets compliments, and drives your significant other wild. Almost everyone has a signature scent.For me it has got to be Very Irresistible Sensual by Givenchy.
I have tried the original eau de toilette, the eau de parfum (called sensual), 2 different summer incarnations, and the 2006 special edition.Notes in this one include Rose, Verbena, Star Anise, Vanilla, and Patchouli. The combination results in a sexy floral scent.
Just finished bottle 5. Contemplating Summer Sorbet next.
What is your signature scent?
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
ck Calvin Klein Beauty for Summer 2009
Here is a brand that hasn't really been on my radar until recently. On one of my recent trips to Sephora, the stunning visuals of the ck summer collection caught my eye, giving me pause and making me reconsider my initial opinion that this brand was "nothing special".Done in a tropical palette of colors, the summer collection's color palette inspires me.
I had the opportunity to swatch and play with this collection last week. My conclusions?I was actually pretty disappointed. I was most excited to try the cream shadow in the tropical green shade. While the color is stunning, the staying power stinks! The cream never dried on my hand, so I can only imagine what kind of havoc it would reek if I wore it on my lid.
Out of this whole collection, the only thing that ended up standing out was the blush palette. That one came home with mama ;)
ck Calvin Klein is a line available exclusively to Sephora.Now tell me folks, any of you have any interest in CK beauty?
Monday, April 27, 2009
Nordstrom Exclusive Nars Palette
Introducing the NARS Modern Day Love Palette, a Nordstrom exclusive that hits stores in May and will retail for $50.Shades included:
- Alhambra (top left) Metallic Rose Mist
- Jezebel (top middle) Shimmering Sable
- India Song (top right) Shimmering Walnut
- Tokyo (bottom left) Soft Silver-White
- Habanera (bottom middle) Sparkling Charcoal-Plum
- Pandora (bottom right) Matte Black
WANT IT, NEED IT, HAVE TO HAVE IT... That is all ;)
MakeUp Show 2009
This folks, is THE must-attend event of the year for those in the Beauty Industry!I attended last year, and it was an AMAZING experience (for a refresher, read yesterday's post)
Some details, as taken from the website
The Makeup Show New York 2009
Sunday May 17 & Monday May 18 9:00am - 6:00pm Daily
For the fourth time the Makeup Show New York brings the industry together like no other trade event has before. The biggest brands. Top industry exhibitors. Speakers from every area of makeup artistry. New product introductions. Special Pro-only offers. Seminars, forums and hands-on workshops. The best networking opportunity in the business. It’s a must-attend event for anyone involved in the makeup industry. Two days of inspiration, education and community building in the global epicenter of the beauty and entertainment industries – New York City.
Presented by The Powder Group and Metropolitan Pavilion
For tickets & more information, visit the show's website by clicking here.
And don't forget to tell me if you are coming! I would love to meet my readers :)
Presented by The Powder Group and Metropolitan Pavilion
For tickets & more information, visit the show's website by clicking here.
And don't forget to tell me if you are coming! I would love to meet my readers :)
Building Your Own Make Up For Ever Collection
Quite a few of you have presented an interest in starting up your very own Make Up For Ever Eye Shadow collections. I don't blame all of you, Make Up For Ever takes the cake in both finish and pigmentation in their amazing array of eyeshadows.
For a refresher, check out my swatches and review: MUFE!
For a refresher, check out my swatches and review: MUFE!
When asked to pick my top 5, my eyes well up at the prospect of excluding any single one of my beloved shadows. However, for the love of all that is makeup; I will force myself to break down top 3 colors by color family.
Neutrals: When you aren't feeling all that adventurous, reach for these soft shades
*59- Camel colored, for those days you want your shadow to match your ride in the desert.
*125- Hands down my favorite highlighting shade. An irridescent pinky beige
*122- A gorgeous copper brown
Purples: This is the one that is surely the most difficult for me, I ADORE purple eyeshadow and will not rest until I own EACH and EVERY purple shadow MUFE makes
*92- BRIGHT purple, ridiculously gorgeous
*9- Lavender, bright and how!Neutrals: When you aren't feeling all that adventurous, reach for these soft shades
*59- Camel colored, for those days you want your shadow to match your ride in the desert.
*125- Hands down my favorite highlighting shade. An irridescent pinky beige
*122- A gorgeous copper brown
Purples: This is the one that is surely the most difficult for me, I ADORE purple eyeshadow and will not rest until I own EACH and EVERY purple shadow MUFE makes
*92- BRIGHT purple, ridiculously gorgeous
*160- That perfect shade of smoky eggplant, love it in the crease!
Pinks/Reds: When you are feeling girly and bold, these shadows rock!
*58- All raspberry, no cream
*67- Dark rosey red, when you want to go red but not really
*75- Malibu barbie pink, awesome as a blush too
*58- All raspberry, no cream
*67- Dark rosey red, when you want to go red but not really
*75- Malibu barbie pink, awesome as a blush too
Greens:
*171- A shimmering chartreuse
*91- A matte kelly green that would make kermit jealous
*123- This shimmering khaki green isn't just for the Army folks!
*171- A shimmering chartreuse
*91- A matte kelly green that would make kermit jealous
*123- This shimmering khaki green isn't just for the Army folks!
Blues:
*72- Vibrant turquoise that would make the ocean foam in envy
*83- Just like 72, only with a kicked up shimmer and a tad more green
*159- Matte deep blue, brighter than navy
*72- Vibrant turquoise that would make the ocean foam in envy
*83- Just like 72, only with a kicked up shimmer and a tad more green
*159- Matte deep blue, brighter than navy
*5- My love for this matte coral is unrelenting. It is 92's long lost lover.
*2- A matte bright yellow, for all your matte bright yellow needs ;)*10- Lemon yellow, sparkles like the sun
In case any of you are interested, I also have a video up on youtube where you can see me blabber on for 10 minutes. If you are feeling particularly adventurous, click on the video below. Don't mind the funny faces either ;)
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Flashback! The Makeup Show 2008
FLASHBACK: The Makeup Show NYC 2008
The concept: The makeup show is a yearly cosmetics tradeshow that is held by the Powder Group. The focus of the show is professional makeup applications, and various brands from all over the cosmetics industry come together to display products, hold demonstrations, and teach
workshops. The makeup show is a great place to not only network with other artists and learn about new brands and trends- it is also a great place to snag professional quality cosmetics at discounted prices. The makeup show is a mecca for everyone from the budding artists to the well-seasoned veterans. Overall, it is an event not to missed for anyone who is passionate about the makeup world.
The set up:
The show is set up in a large one-floor convention center. The booths are set up to be open tables with industry professionals displaying and explaining their products. There are two breakoff sections in the corners of the space, which are designated as demo corners. Each demo corner had a mini stage and rows of chairs. Demos ran for about 45 minutes each and a new demo was held every hour. Off behind closed doors, several workshops went on.
The lights were bright and the atmosphere was charged. Several body painted beauties roamed the floor showcasing different styles, brands and products. Some booths even took their demos to the visitors who could walk away with a glittery makeup tattoo on their faces or a press on eyeshadow look.
The Booths/Exhibitors:
This show saw a myriad of brands. Here is the list of all the companies featured: (this is taken from the official site by the way (http://www.themakeupshow.com/)
A.Design
LuMESH Cosmetics
Alcone Company
MAC Cosmetics
Alison Raffaele Cosmetics
Make-Up Designory
Anastasia Beverly Hills
Makeup Artist Magazine
Apres Camouflage Makeup
Make Up For Ever
Auraline Beauty
Mario Badescu Skin Care
Awake Cosmetics
Mehron
beauty ADDICTS
MG Hair & Makeup
Becca Cosmetics
MONDA Studio
Boaz Stein
Motives-Market America
Big Girl Cosmetics
Myrabelle Products
BILLY B BEAUTY
Naimie's Beauty Center
Cinema Secrets
Naked Cosmetics
Color Mundo
National Fiber Technology
ColorOn Professional
Nixie Cosmetics
Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry
Nurturing Force
Cover Girl
NuSkin Galvanic Spa
Crown Brushes
Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics
Elegant Faces
Pencil Me In Cosmetics
Embryolisse
PowderPuff Squad, Inc.
Eve Pearl
Ramy Cosmetics
FACE Atelier
Rouge Makeup Studio
Friends Beauty Supply
Rubis Tweezers
Graftobian Makeup
Senna Cosmetics
Hagen Linns SilverRain Studios
Hakuhodo
Smashbox
Iredale Mineral Cosmetics
Stila Cosmetics
JAO Ltd.
Temptu
Kett Cosmetics
Three Custom Color Specialists
Kissable Couture
Too Faced Cosmetics
Kryolan Professional
Vancouver Film School
Lancôme
Wolfe Brothers Face Art & FX
Linda Mason Elements
Yaby Cosmetics
Lord & Berry
As you can see, everything from makeup schools to accessory shops were featured.
Some of the Sunday demos from 2008:
The Eco Artist- Alison Rafaelle for On Makeup Magazine
Essential Character Techniques: 10 Minute Prosthetics- Paul Thompson for Makeup Designory
Hand'-ling HD Makeup- Kevin James Bennett for Makeup Forever
Hi-Def to Bridal Beauty: Revolutionary makeup for an evolving industry- JP McCary for Temptu
Beautiful Makeup- AJ Crimson for Kissable Couture
Tools of the Trade- Eve Pearl for Alcone
And the list goes on and on
"So who here is a makeup whore?"
These were literally the first words out of Kevin J Bennett's mouth. Kevin James Bennett is Make Up For Ever's Artistic Director, and his demonstration was all about HD makeup. The year 2009 saw the implementation of High Definition broadcasting across all television networks.
"How does HD TV affect makeup artists? Well the HD lens sees 6x more details than the human eye can pick up alone." As a result, the makeup artist will want to make a person on air look flawless, without having them look like they are wearing makeup. A dramatic makeup look might be ok for a soap opera star, but you don't want to look at a newscaster for example and be distracted by the excessive makeup he/she has on.
As a brand, Make Up For Ever is by the artist and for the artist. An interesting tidbit that Kevin shared with the audience is that the founder of makeup forever (Dany Sanz) got her start as a painter of sets. When she saw the need for non transferring makeup for models/actresses bodies in her own work, she set about to cooking up a water resistant, non transferable- body paint. Thus, Make Up For Ever was born.
The HD foundation line is entirely silicone based with a huge part of the formulation's charm being one other special ingredient: light-reflecting mica. The result is a foundation and finishing powder formulation that mimics skin texture brilliantly without being too matte or too shiny. Kevin transformed the lovely Devin before our very eyes, just to demonstrate the power of this product. He started with an HD primer base (these are clear and color correcting options available), he then started with a shade in the model's skintone and then worked in both a lighter shade of foundation to highlight and a darker than skintone foundation to contour. He finished the look up with HD powder, a colorless setting powder meant to be used to set and also to get rid of excess oils on the face. The end result was a gorgeous flawless face that did not look at all made up. Best of all this stuff is water resistance, and will not come off unless you use an oil based cleanser.
Best Moments of 2008:
Getting my brows done by one of the Anastasia professionals was definitely high up there, but the ultimate highlight of the day for me was being matched for HD foundation by none other than Kevin Bennett- Makeup Forever's very own artistic director. The man is amazing! He is charming, knowledgeable and completely in tune with his client's needs and wants. I walked away from the experience with a flawless face, 2 photos and an experience I won't soon forget.
Some pics :-D
The concept: The makeup show is a yearly cosmetics tradeshow that is held by the Powder Group. The focus of the show is professional makeup applications, and various brands from all over the cosmetics industry come together to display products, hold demonstrations, and teach
workshops. The makeup show is a great place to not only network with other artists and learn about new brands and trends- it is also a great place to snag professional quality cosmetics at discounted prices. The makeup show is a mecca for everyone from the budding artists to the well-seasoned veterans. Overall, it is an event not to missed for anyone who is passionate about the makeup world.
The set up:
The show is set up in a large one-floor convention center. The booths are set up to be open tables with industry professionals displaying and explaining their products. There are two breakoff sections in the corners of the space, which are designated as demo corners. Each demo corner had a mini stage and rows of chairs. Demos ran for about 45 minutes each and a new demo was held every hour. Off behind closed doors, several workshops went on.
The lights were bright and the atmosphere was charged. Several body painted beauties roamed the floor showcasing different styles, brands and products. Some booths even took their demos to the visitors who could walk away with a glittery makeup tattoo on their faces or a press on eyeshadow look.
The Booths/Exhibitors:
This show saw a myriad of brands. Here is the list of all the companies featured: (this is taken from the official site by the way (http://www.themakeupshow.com/)
A.Design
LuMESH Cosmetics
Alcone Company
MAC Cosmetics
Alison Raffaele Cosmetics
Make-Up Designory
Anastasia Beverly Hills
Makeup Artist Magazine
Apres Camouflage Makeup
Make Up For Ever
Auraline Beauty
Mario Badescu Skin Care
Awake Cosmetics
Mehron
beauty ADDICTS
MG Hair & Makeup
Becca Cosmetics
MONDA Studio
Boaz Stein
Motives-Market America
Big Girl Cosmetics
Myrabelle Products
BILLY B BEAUTY
Naimie's Beauty Center
Cinema Secrets
Naked Cosmetics
Color Mundo
National Fiber Technology
ColorOn Professional
Nixie Cosmetics
Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry
Nurturing Force
Cover Girl
NuSkin Galvanic Spa
Crown Brushes
Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics
Elegant Faces
Pencil Me In Cosmetics
Embryolisse
PowderPuff Squad, Inc.
Eve Pearl
Ramy Cosmetics
FACE Atelier
Rouge Makeup Studio
Friends Beauty Supply
Rubis Tweezers
Graftobian Makeup
Senna Cosmetics
Hagen Linns SilverRain Studios
Hakuhodo
Smashbox
Iredale Mineral Cosmetics
Stila Cosmetics
JAO Ltd.
Temptu
Kett Cosmetics
Three Custom Color Specialists
Kissable Couture
Too Faced Cosmetics
Kryolan Professional
Vancouver Film School
Lancôme
Wolfe Brothers Face Art & FX
Linda Mason Elements
Yaby Cosmetics
Lord & Berry
As you can see, everything from makeup schools to accessory shops were featured.
Some of the Sunday demos from 2008:
The Eco Artist- Alison Rafaelle for On Makeup Magazine
Essential Character Techniques: 10 Minute Prosthetics- Paul Thompson for Makeup Designory
Hand'-ling HD Makeup- Kevin James Bennett for Makeup Forever
Hi-Def to Bridal Beauty: Revolutionary makeup for an evolving industry- JP McCary for Temptu
Beautiful Makeup- AJ Crimson for Kissable Couture
Tools of the Trade- Eve Pearl for Alcone
And the list goes on and on
"So who here is a makeup whore?"
These were literally the first words out of Kevin J Bennett's mouth. Kevin James Bennett is Make Up For Ever's Artistic Director, and his demonstration was all about HD makeup. The year 2009 saw the implementation of High Definition broadcasting across all television networks.
"How does HD TV affect makeup artists? Well the HD lens sees 6x more details than the human eye can pick up alone." As a result, the makeup artist will want to make a person on air look flawless, without having them look like they are wearing makeup. A dramatic makeup look might be ok for a soap opera star, but you don't want to look at a newscaster for example and be distracted by the excessive makeup he/she has on.
As a brand, Make Up For Ever is by the artist and for the artist. An interesting tidbit that Kevin shared with the audience is that the founder of makeup forever (Dany Sanz) got her start as a painter of sets. When she saw the need for non transferring makeup for models/actresses bodies in her own work, she set about to cooking up a water resistant, non transferable- body paint. Thus, Make Up For Ever was born.
The HD foundation line is entirely silicone based with a huge part of the formulation's charm being one other special ingredient: light-reflecting mica. The result is a foundation and finishing powder formulation that mimics skin texture brilliantly without being too matte or too shiny. Kevin transformed the lovely Devin before our very eyes, just to demonstrate the power of this product. He started with an HD primer base (these are clear and color correcting options available), he then started with a shade in the model's skintone and then worked in both a lighter shade of foundation to highlight and a darker than skintone foundation to contour. He finished the look up with HD powder, a colorless setting powder meant to be used to set and also to get rid of excess oils on the face. The end result was a gorgeous flawless face that did not look at all made up. Best of all this stuff is water resistance, and will not come off unless you use an oil based cleanser.
Best Moments of 2008:
Getting my brows done by one of the Anastasia professionals was definitely high up there, but the ultimate highlight of the day for me was being matched for HD foundation by none other than Kevin Bennett- Makeup Forever's very own artistic director. The man is amazing! He is charming, knowledgeable and completely in tune with his client's needs and wants. I walked away from the experience with a flawless face, 2 photos and an experience I won't soon forget.
Some pics :-D
The HD Demo with Kevin and Devin
This model was painted in 3 dimensional body paint. The effect was
very out there and very cool.
MUFE Model- She was painted and airbrushed. I think the end result was beautiful
Me and the ever- fabulous Kevin James Bennett from Make Up For Ever- This man is amazing!
Model Being Made Up
Yep, its Enkore :-D
How stylish is my bright orange bag? ;) Off topic, but this is what I look like 25 pounds heavier than I am now. Ha!
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Shu Uemura Lashes in Nature- Tokyo Lash Bar for Summer 2009
Source for Promo Image: Glossy-KissEvery year, Shu Uemura releases a special limited collection of luxe couture lashes in avant garde styles. Appropriately called the Tokyo Lash Bar, these iconic collections have fashion and beauty junkies alike chomping at the bit to get their hands on them!
Well I have come across some snippets of information on this summer's upcoming release: Lashes in Nature. This collection doesn't disappoint, and includes feather, rainbow, and plumed lashes.
Playing up trends, and pushing the envelope; these lashes are absolutely gorgeous and sure to catch attention!
Source: New York Magazine
So what do we think? I am swooning for the last pair!
Friday, April 24, 2009
Bobbi Brown Today's Special Value on QVC- Sneak Peek!
Heads up to all of you Bobbi Brown lovers out there!On Saturday, May 30th; QVC will be featuring a fantastic Today's Special Value, with 7 full pieces at a steal of a deal! The kit is called Best of Bobbi 7 Piece Collection, and it includes:
7 Well Eye Shadow Palette with Dual ended brush. 3 of the shades in the palette are exclusive!
7 Well Lip Palette with Lip Brush- 7 of Bobbi's bestselling shades
Black Long Wearing Gel Eyeliner
Mini crystal lip gloss
Mini Rose Pot Rouge
Mini Ultra fine Eyeliner Brush
Mini black Everything Mascara
You get all of this for $84.90, while the retail value is $162! Opt for easy pay, and you pay 3 payments of only $28.30You can put in your advance order today! Just go to qvc.com and search item number A91588! Your order will ship after May 30th! Its that easy!
So head on over to QVC.com, and haul away.
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