Adorned Beauty

My Favorite Things

2010-08-04T23:30:00.004-05:00

I use these items personally on a daily basis. Some things I could not find on polyvore like MAC Retrospect lipglass. I don't have a favorite shadow color. I do like Painterly with almost everything....or just my primer potion and a shadow. For eyes, it really depends on my mood, but everything else pretty much stays the same as far as blush, foundation and lips.

My Favorite Things by tiffa

neem featuring Monsoon accessories

NARS Highlighting/Bronzing Blush Duo Orgasm/Laguna
$38 - sephora.com

Smashbox Photo Finish Light Foundation Primer 1 oz Luminizing
$38 - sephora.com

MAC - Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation NC43
$35 - yesstyle.com

Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner
$21 - bobbibrowncosmetics.com

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion 0.34 oz Original
$18 - sephora.com

Amazon.com: The Future Belongs To Those Who Believe In The Beauty Of...
$14 - amazon.com

MAC Painterly Paint Pot
detailgal.com

MAC Lip Pencil in Cork - Medium-Dark - Best Beauty Buys - InStyle
instyle.com

Makeupalley Reviews of Urban Decay 24-7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Zero
makeupalley.com

Very Patriotic FOTD

2010-07-04T16:05:00.005-05:00

So, I got bored waiting on my husband to bar-b-que. He was spending too much time playing his new video game, so I decided to play with my new MUFE Flash Color Pallete. I have been wanting to get this for a while, so we finally broke down and got it.Here is the look I created:
Btw, my camera has been malfunctioning (in a good way ;). For some reason, it has been automatically airbrushing my face. My skin is not this perfect. It completely wiped away all of my little freckles.

What I used for this look:

Face:

Cinema Secrets Concealor
MAC Studio Fix Powder
MAC Blush- Raisin and Plum Foolery

Eyes:

MUFE Flash Color - White, Blue
MAC - Deep Truth
Stilla - Precious Pearl Palette (white color?)
Loreal Hip - Showy
Bobby Brown Gel Liner
Red Cherry #62 lashes

Lips:

MUFE Flash Color -Red
Victoria Secret Cranberry Red Lip gloss

Happy 4th of July!

Airbrush Makeup vs. Traditional Makeup for Weddings

2010-07-01T17:37:00.007-05:00

Many brides are now requesting to have their makeup airbrushed for their wedding day. Well, what is airbrush and what's the difference?
Both applications will give you a flawless look if you are using professional products and applying correctly, but the main difference is transferability. Airbrush makeup does not transfer onto anything....like your new husbands tuxedo shirt ;). I will compare them a little more:

TRADITIONAL APPLICATION provides sheer to full coverage. This type of makeup is waterproof, works with all skin types and comes in a wide color range. If you are using good products, no matter what type of lighting or lens your photographer uses, you will look flawless.

AIRBRUSH APPLICATION is a specialized makeup application previously used by makeup artists ofr professional photography and celebrities. It is a technique of applying makeup through an airbrush sprayer, which finely mists on foundation giving you a natural, flawless, durable picture perfect skin.

The type of airbrush foundation I use is waterproof, which is great for weddings. It also provides sheer to maximum coverage and it is smudge proof and non-transferable on clothes. It stays on until you take it off.

Curly Hair

2010-06-30T17:15:00.002-05:00

This post is a bit different because I mainly write about makeup. Well, I have been getting questions lately about what I put in my hair. I have naturally curly hair, yet sometimes I flat iron it if I don't want to deal with the curly fuss. To keep beautiful curls, here are a few Do's and Dont's:

Do:

TUCK CURLS INTO A BONNET OR SILK SCARF AT NIGHT. You have to protect your curls at bedtime! And if it’s long, first gather your hair into a high ponytail, using a loose scrunchy.

GET A TRIM EVERY THREE MONTHS. This is key for curly hair. You gain a quarter of an inch or so a month, so you’ll want to snip off dead ends to keep your curls looking and feeling fresh.

DO: TRY A PORTABLE HOOD DRYER INSTEAD OF A DIFFUSER. After applying your styling product to wet hair, sit under a hood dryer (pre-heated works best). Stop when your hair’s almost dry, and then let the rest air dry. Your curls will have great definition!

Don’t:

TOUCH YOUR HAIR UNTIL IT IS COMPLETELY DRY. If you fuss too much with your wet hair, you’ll disturb the curl pattern. The curls won’t have a chance to set properly. I usually wait until it completely dries and fluff it out.

SHAMPOO YOUR HAIR EVERY TIME IT GETS WET. You"ll dry out your curls if you shampoo too much. I suggest a ‘big shampoo’ once a week. And don’t worry about it not getting clean. When you wet your hair and rinse it, you’re cleaning it!

DON’T: USE TOO MUCH STYLING PRODUCT. This leads to crunchy curls. Your product should be lite enough that you can saturate your hair with it, and your curls don’t get crunchy or weighted down.

Viva Glam Gaga + FOTD

2010-06-26T20:24:00.010-05:00

I decided today that I needed a new pink in my collection so I got the new Viva Glam by Lady Gaga. Well it's not really by Lady Gaga, she's just the celebrity model for the new line. For me, it was a bit scary in the tube because I don't really do pink. I was shocked to say that it looks really good on. It is very natural looking. My daughter is gaga over it. If she could wear pink everyday, she would.

All the proceeds from Viva Glam collection goes towards their AIDS fund, so that was a plus.

I paired it with a pink lipglass from the Beach Collection. I love the orange tube. It is called Splashing. It adds a little more color to the Lady Gaga lipstick.

Here is my FOTD:

Face:

Cinema Secrets Foundation mixed with Cetaphil moisturizer
MAC Set Powder
La Femme Blush - (some pink color - no name??)

Eyes:

Urban Decay Primer
MAC Vex, Creme de Violet, Satellite Dreams
MUFE #92
Bobby Brown Gel Liner

Lips:

Mac Cork Liner
Viva Glam Gaga ls
Mac - To the Beach Lipglass - Splashing

No more Shiny Forehead!

2010-06-11T20:17:00.004-05:00

I have been asked over and over, "How do I get rid of my shiny forehead?" Ladies, I hear ya! My skin is very oily and by mid-day, I'm glowing. Don't fret too much, because oily skin peeps usually look younger.

Primers usually work well, but I wouldn't suggest using one everyday. Primers are designed to seep into pores and close them up, so nothing goes in or out of the skin. Well, our skin needs to breathe sometimes, so be mindful of how long and often you use a primer.

I have been using Face-To-Face Super Matte Anti-Shine to matte the shine of my oily skin. It goes on really light and it only takes a little. It comes in a simple little tube...no fancy bells and whistles on packaging here. Sometimes the simplest looking products are the best, as in this case. I got it from Camera Ready Cosmetics for about $25.

I was a little disappointed by the size of the tube, but it is a great product. Now I am confident went I go out especially in this summer heat. See the pic compared to a Mac lipstick.

Hot Wired

2010-04-17T19:41:00.006-05:00

Ok ladies, I've been wanting to try the Dominican blowout on my hair. I found a Dominican hair salon in Houston and decided to give it a try. It was an experience. Although my hair is straight, I think I will stick with Visible Changes. They did a great job with the hot oil and deep conditioning treatment, but it all took 4 hours. I've never had my hair straightened without a flat iron or marcels, so this was different. They roller set my hair and blew it out until it was on fire. It feels great though ;). Here is the finished look:

I also took a trip to Sephora with my 15% off coupon and got a few Nars lip glosses. I am wearing Hotwired lip lacquer. I just loved that fuchsia color. I wore it alone for a transparent look. You can also wear it over lip color for a sexy shine.

Eyes: Mac Vex, Nixie Burlesque, Bobbi Brown gel liner (my new fav!!!)

Rock on...

2010-01-21T20:20:00.002-06:00

This is sort of a different type of post, but fashion is still beauty ;). I was hooked by this website from Hayley with All Things Beauty. I love to shop, so this is right up my alley! At polyvore.com, you can create outfits/sets from different designers.

I chose Metropark USA. I just bought these jeans last month and love them. This time, I paired it with what I call "the face shirt". Apparently, the new trend in tees is a huge face of a fierce woman.....something else right up my alley. The purse is by Betsey Johnson and the shoes are Dolce Vita (not Gabbana ;).

Now, I had to add the beauty with the Dolce & Gabbana lipstick key chain. Isn't it cute ;).

I Rock!!! by tiffaneem featuring Betsey Johnson

Small Haul and FOTD

2010-01-20T15:59:00.008-06:00

I ordered a few things online that I have been waiting to try.

First, MAC limited edition lipstick "Honey Love". Sorry girls, this one is no longer available at Mac. I had to search hard for it. I found it at All Cosmetic Wholesale. It is the perfect nude for me. I am Mac NC 42,43.

I lined my lips with Cork lip liner, and added Revealing lip gloss. Perfect combo....I love revealing. It also looks great with Siss.

I also ordered MUFE Hi Def foundation and Nars Orgasm/Laguna duo from Sephora. I have been using the Nars duo everyday since I got it in the mail. I love it!

I applied Laguna under the checkbones and a little on the temples (to slim out my baby fat.....still shedding lbs after the baby ;).

I love the way MUFE's Hi Def foundation photographs on my skin. It goes on smooth and lasts all day. My only thing is my oily skin. In the picture, you may notice a glow. That's no make-up trick or special effect.....it's my oilies coming out. If I plan on a long day with this foundation, I better use a primer. My next stop will be for MUFE Matte Velvet. Maybe that will be better on my skin.

I'm Back....

2009-12-31T19:13:00.005-06:00

Hello Bella's!!!

Sorry I've been away for so long. My baby is getting healthier and growing by the day. He is now 8 weeks old. I must say that it has been nice being at home....just the two of us. He makes me smile all day. Even when he cries, I smile. Babies are truly a gift from God. Thank you!

Here is my little Brayden:
With the new baby and the passing holidays, we all know what my resolution will be.....shed some pounds ;). I will be joining the P90X work out. Who wants to join me and stay motivated?

What are your resolutions for the New Year? Loose weight, eat right, be a better person, make more money? Whatever it is, make sure you follow through. Get someone to join in with you or support you with whatever you set out to accomplish this year.

If you are looking for a better complexion to complete that flawless face, here are some recommendations for the new year:

Add these to your diet and make them daily eating habits:

Vitamin A is essential for great skin. Look for foods that are green (broccoli, spinach, kale, etc) or foods that are dark orange (carrots, tomatoes, sweet potatoe, etc). Also, milk, egg yolk and oysters are good sources of vitamin A.

Eat more fish! Fish contains oils that will help nourish your skin. If you don't like fish, try fish oil supplements.

Vitamin E helps to slow down the aging process. Good sources of vitamin e are nuts, leafy vegetables, salmon, lean meat, legumes and sunflower oil. So instead of packing chips in your purse, carry a bag of nuts to snack on.

Vitamin C helps to maintain collagen which acts as a supporting structure for the skin. Good sources include citrus fruits and vegetables like orange, lime, lemon, guava, indian gooseberry, strawberries and green and red peppers.

FOTD and Maternity pics

2009-09-01T21:49:00.004-05:00

Ok, I have two-in-one post here.

First off, I used my Stila "Precious Pearl" palette for the first time today! I never really use pink eye shadow on myself, so I wanted to try this. You can barely tell the true color because I took this at night with a flash. Here goes:

What I used:

Eyes:
Mac Hush CCB - all over eye as base
From the Stila palette: Soft Pink, Midtone Pink, Deep Blue, White Gold
Rimmel - Navy blue liner
Cherry lash #62

Face:
Studio Fix powder NC 43
Mac Mellow Rave Highlight powder
Mac Gleeful Mineralize Blush

Lips:
Mac Cork liner
NYX Lousiana
Sephora gloss (forgot the name)

And here is a shot from my maternity shoot! (this time we took this in the living room.....hooray for not having to leave the house!!!) I was about 5.5 months here. I am now 7 months and counting. It's a boy!

Bridal Looks

2009-09-01T21:30:00.007-05:00

I did a shoot a few weeks ago with a few girls to show some beauty/bridal looks. We shot these in my garage. It's great that my husband is a photographer. I didn't even have to leave my house :). The first few shots are bridal, the last ones are requests of the photographer.

Here are the other beauty shots:

Not bad for not leaving the house, hugh?

Stila "My Hero" & "Precious Pearl" swatches

2009-08-19T21:44:00.010-05:00

OK, so here are a few swatches from my recent Sephora purchase.

Stila
"The Precious Pearl Palette"

For $20, I had to try this. It has six pearl eye shadows. They are very smooth and pigmented. It also comes in a pearl case. Very cute!

This set contains:
-White Gold (soft creamy white w/ gold shimmer)
-Soft Pink (light pink w/ pink and white shimmer)
-Midtone Pink (neutral warm pink with pink shimmer)
-Deep Blue (dark blackish nave with blue shimmer - looks like Mac Deep Truth in the palette, but it is more navy)
-Green(mermaid green with blue/green shimmer)
-Gold (deep gold with yellow and gold shimmer)

Stila
"My Mother, My Hero"

I mentioned this set in my previous post. I really like all the contents in this bag. Here are the swatches:

From left to right: (Natalie - Plum lip color, eyeshadow trio: gold, bronze, ivory, Illuminating Finishing Powder in bronze)

I also order this quad from Cargo for $5. It was a nice buy for the price, but not my style of quality. It's a little chalky, but I wore it today over Mac Indianwood pp and it looked nice...lasted me all day also. I wouldn't use this without a good base. The colors are really pretty.

Cargo
"PlanetLove Eye Shadow Quad

Thanks for viewing! I will do a fotd with these soon. Bare with me, I just started back working this week, so when I get home, I am pooped (also 7 months prego ;).

Stila - "My Hero"

2009-08-17T22:04:00.005-05:00

I just recently purchased a few things from Sephora a few weeks ago and wanted to share. One of the products I got was the Limited Edition, Stila "My Hero" set. This set was on sale for $20, so I had to get it. It is actually my first Stila product. I have been wearing it every day since I got the package.

The set contains:

Baked Eye Shadow Trio in Gold (gold, bronze, ivory)
Illuminating Finishing Powder in Bronze (bronze Shimmer)
Lip Color in Natalie (a perfect plum)
Lash Visor Waterproof Mascara (black)
Gold Linen Cluth

The clutch itself is very nice, made of quality materials....which means it should last a long time. I really like it. It is also big enough to store extra items (like a cell phone and small wallet ;). I have not yet tried the mascara (since I am still using my old one), but the other items, I love!

The colors in the eye shadow trio are gorgeous together. I am not really a big fan of golds, but with the other two colors and the bronzer, it looks great. The lip color is not really my fav, but it is nice. It is very sheer, almost like a tinted lip gloss. The berry color is very pretty.

Sorry I don't have swatches now, but I will be sure to post some very soon. I may even do an fotd (since I may very well be wearing it ;).

Urban Decay Friends and Family Sale

2009-08-10T16:05:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to share this sale with you all. I don't own many items for UD (yet), because there are so many lines out there. But, I can tell you that their primers are a must have! The Eye Shadow Primer Potion is a staple in my kit. I will be ordering a few of those. I also want to try the new face primers.

I have another post on Smashbox's Photofinish Primer, and I want to compare it to UD's. We shall see.

Happy Shopping!!!

I've been tagged!

2009-08-10T12:30:00.003-05:00

So, I notice that I have been tagged by The Makeup Snob and was asked to continue the chain. This should be fun.

So the rules of the picture tag:

►Open your first photo folder
►Scroll down to the 10th photo.
►Post that photo and story on your blog.
►Tag five others (or more) friends to do the same.

So the 10 photo on my computer is......

This is a picture of my daughter, Brianna, on Easter (2007). She was 3 years old here.

I believe this was her first egg hunt and she was so excited. This is when she was slimming down. I can still see those little chubby cheeks.

Ok, so I am going to tag a few more people so they can post their photo and story as well.

In no particular order:

1. Celly - La Dolce Vita Beauty Blog
2. Aziajs - Faces from Aziajs
3. Brad - Light Writer Photography
4. Deborah - DvoraDivine
5. Eye Adorer or Fashion
6. Natty - Miss Natty's Beauty Diary
7. Jude - The Girly Show

Ok, post away!

Don't forget to visit their blogs.

Fan of Blue and Purple Eyeshadow FOTD

2009-08-09T21:05:00.005-05:00

Here is my face of the day:

For the face, I kept it simple with just primer and powder. I used Laura Geller Bronzing Primer and Mac Studio Fix powder. I also used Mac Mellow Rave Highlight Powder to contour and Cargo BeachBlush.

Lips: Mac Velvetella creamstick liner, and NYX Pandora

For the eyes, I used:

Mac Indianwood Paint Pot
Ben Nye LG Turquise e/s
Nixie Champagne e/s
Mac Coppering e/s
Mac Mythology e/s
Mac Black Tied e/s
MUFE 92 e/s

I used Indianwood as the base (all over the eye) and applied Turquoise on the lid and blended up just a little into crease. I then applied Champagne onto the browbone and blended downward. Coppering into the crease and Mythology on top of that. Lastly, I used a purple color (MUFE 92) on the outer third of the eye and Black Tied in the outer-v.

I also filled in my brows with Mac Brown Down and Embark e/s.

NYX Lipsticks

2009-08-05T14:35:00.007-05:00

Another small haul from Cherry Culture: NYX Round and Black Label lipsticks. I have been hearing that these were really good and very inexpensive. I got the round lipsticks for $2 each and the Black Label for $7. I have to say, I love them all. I was going to go to Mac to get me a fuschia color, but decided to get NYX instead. Great move....saved me alot of $.

I have tested out a few of them and they last about as long as any of my other lipsticks. NYX has tons of shades to choose from. I will be placing my orders with them when I need new colors.

Here are some swatches:

In case you can't see the names, in order, they are: Nude, Chloe, Fusion, Pandora, and Lousiana. I love them all.

Here is a look with Chloe (and more Nixie shadows):

I lined me lips with Mac creamstick liner Velvetella and filled in with NYX Chloe. The lipstick was very pigmented, so it only took one coat. I didn't use a gloss since it already had a little shine.

For the eyes, I use Architecture paint on lid and Fawntastic cream color base on the browbones as a base. Then I applied Nixie shadows: Burlesque on lid, Champagne at the browbone and swept it down, Amber to the crease, and Mac Sketch in the outer V.

For the face, I used the same steps as my everyday look tutorial, except I contoured with Cargo Matte Bronzer in Medium and used Mac Blush Afterdusk (this was a limited edition).

Natural Look with Nixie Shadows

2009-08-04T23:56:00.008-05:00

Hi beauties,

Here is another natural look for everyday. Very simple....three colors. I just ordered a few Nixie shadows from Camerareadycosmetics.com. They are selling out of all of their Nixie products at 40% off, so I had to try. I've heard reviews that they are better than Mac and I totally agree!!! I love Mac, but Nixie is better. The shadows are very pigmented, and look how much more product you get for $1 more.

Here is what they look like on my arm. I am NC43-45:

Here is my look using the following products (very natural):

Eyes:
Urban Decay Primer Potion
Mac Painterly paintpot (on lid)
Toast (lid)
Amber (crease)
Cinnamon (highlight - from crease up)

Face:
Mac MSF Foundation - NC45
Mac Studio Fix Powder - NC43
Cargo Bronzer - Medium
Cargo - Beach Blush

Lips:
Nixie lipstain - Hush
(this is another item I got from Nixie. Great product. It lasted all day on my lips. Even better with lipstick on top.....just in case the lipstick goes away, you still have the color of the lipstain.)

Tutorial - Everyday Makeup Look

2009-07-27T20:06:00.011-05:00

I'm going to share how I apply my makeup everyday. In this tutorial, I will do a basic look....very minimal. Cosmetics should enhance the feature that God gave you, so less is more. Makeup should be about the colors you choose and where you put them, not how much you put on.

Normally, only my husband gets to see this "Before" face, but I will share it with you all for the sake of beauty. Here is what I want to accomplish: (Don't laugh)

Here are all the products and tools I used. You don't have to use the same ones. Use what works for you.

1. Carmex - to soften the lips.

1.(a) Not pictured. Hope in a Jar Moisturizer (all over face)
1.(b) Not pictured. Smashbox Photofinish Primer
2. Laura Mercier Secret Concealer #4
3. Mac MSF liquid foundation NC45
4. Mac Studio Fix NC43
5. Laura Geller Balance and Bronze
6. Mac Hello Kitty Beauty Powder Blush - Fun and Games
7. Mac MSF Refined
8. Mac Brow Shader
9. Maybelline Great Lash Blackest Black Mascara
10. Mac Ebony Eye Pencil (not the best - always bleeds on me)
11. Mac Creamstick Pearl Liner - Sherry
12. Whoops....nothing here :|
13. Mac Shy Girl Lipstick
14. Mac Plushglass - Big Baby

1. Sonia Kashuk Concealer Brush (Target)
2. Mac 190
3. Laura Geller dual brush
4. Mac 129
5. Benefit Slant Powder brush
6. Smudger brush (not sure of name - got it from Target)
7. Mac 263

Step 1: Moisturize lips and face. Add face primer. Face primer is optional. I use it to make my makeup last all day. I have very oily skin, so if I don't, my face will look like an oil slick midday.

Step2: Conceal any blemishes and dark spots. I usually have dark circles under my eyes, so I try to lighten that area up with concealer. I applied it with a brush and blended with my ring finger using light taps.

Step 3: Apply foundation all over face. Be sure to get into the hairline, otherwise, you'll look like you have a ring around your face. To prevent applying too much foundation, I pumped two small amounts onto my wrist and used that to cover the entire face.

I used a foundation brush to apply. You can easily use your fingers (great method because the heat from your fingers helps the foundation blend well), or a sponge.

To ensure the foundation is even, I buffed it with a flat foundation brush. You can also even it out with a wedge sponge.

Step 4: Set the foundation with powder. I used Mac Studio Fix powder with brush 129. This will help the foundation stay and not look so shiny.

Step 5: Apply bronzer. I used my bronzer to contour my face. This helps bring out my cheekbones, slims the face a bit (I'm 6 months pregnant ;), and adds a natural glow.

Take your brush and create a number 3 shape starting from the temples, cheekbones, and chin.

Step 6: Apply blush. Every gal needs a little blush. Don't be scaaared :)! I was nervous about blush at first myself, but it really makes the difference. Just find one that is natural and neutral, but still adds life to your skin. If you want natural, look at your cheeks after working out. What is the natural color?

I applied a very light peachy blush to the apples of my cheeks and blended downward into the bronzer. To give it a bit more radiant glow, I applied Mineralized Skinfinish on top of the blush.

Step 7: Line eyes (optional). Add mascara (a must!!). I only line the outer corners of my eyes and smudged it a bit. Two coats of mascara. Both coats should be very light. Wipe off excess product from the wand before applying to lashes, otherwise, you'll have clumps. Let the first coat dry before adding the second.

Step 8: Lips. I wanted a very light look, but with a little life, so I used a peachy color to match the cheeks.

My lips are pretty dark, so I line them with a light peach liner and filled in the entire lip. Next Applied lipstick and gloss.

Voila!!! We're done. Adorn your true beauty! It only takes a few steps.

Oily Skin - Smashbox Photo Finish Primer

2009-07-11T16:06:00.006-05:00

Ok, so my skin is not as great as is use to be (guess that's a part of getting older). I use to just be able to apply eyeliner, mascara, a little gloss and go. Now I have freckles (not the cute ones) and a few blemishes. My skin needs a little more to create an even skin tone.

I have noticed that in the middle of the day, I find my makeup prints from my fingers all over my paperwork. How embarrassing!! At the end of the day, my face looks like someone has slapped grease all over it! Uggghh!

I have tried a couple of moisturizers and primers and there was one that seemed to prevail the others: Smashbox Photo Finish Primer (the Light version).

There are several other versions of the photo finish primer, but this one is ideal for oily, acne-prone or sensitive skin. It contains vitamins and antioxidants to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and pores. The greatest part is that it has oil-absorbers to create a smooth matte finish that lasts all day.

I don't want to sound like a commercial and list every single thing this product does, but it is great!

To test it out, I applied it in the morning (before foundation) and spent the entire day at the NASA Space Center with my daughter and husband. To give you an idea of the day, it was over 100 degress outside, we went on a train tour of the facility (in an open cart train), in and out of buildings, and lots of activities for 5 hours. When I got home at 9 pm, my face was still matte and flawless :).

I tried it out as a sample from Sephora and will be returning to purchase it. Now, it is pretty costly.....$36 but well worth it. No more embarrasing makeup marks on my papers at work!

Tip: It comes in a pump for a reason. All you need is one pump and apply it all over your face. It does not take very much. It's not like lotioning your body, where you feel you need to see it cover the entire skin and rub, rub, rub until it disappears. Don't do that with the primer. Just one pump.

Laura Mercier Employee, Friends and Family Sale

2009-07-09T00:23:00.013-05:00

Ok girls, this is the best event Laura Mercier has had yet! Laura Mercier Grab Bags $300 retail (only $65!!!)

I love, love Laura Mercier products! The only thing is it's so expensive. Everything is about $22 and up there, but so worth the price. My kit contains lots of these products. Three items alone in each set is worth over $65.

Here is what you get for $65:
There are three different bags (I am not sure why they call it a bag...it's prob gonna come in a box ;) for three different skin tones: Light, Medium, and Deep.

The Light & Fresh bag is ideal for fair skin tones, it includes the following full-size items:

Margaux Eye Colour

Eye Book

Midnight Caviar Eye Liner

Linen Eye Basics

Pink Diamond Lip Glacé

Sterling Nail Lacquer

Undercover #1

Opera Cheek Colour

Mini Translucent Loose Setting Powder

Chocolate Truffle Crème Body Wash

Sugar Cookie Candle

The Sunkissed Grab Bag is ideal for medium skin tones, Sunkissed includes the following full-size items:

Sparkling Diamond Mineral Powder

Midnight Sun Eye Colour Trio

Mahogany Brown Eye Liner

Chestnut Caviar Eye Liner

Apricot Face Tint

Wheat Eye Basics

Sugar Plum Lip Colour - Stickgloss

Persimmon Lip Plumper

24 Karat Nail Lacquer

Almond Coconut Milk Candle

Undercover #3

Black Granite Long Wear Eye Pencil

The Dramatic Grab Bag is ideal for deep skin tones, Dramatic includes the following full-size items:

Mauve Sunset Eye Colour Trio

Black Ebony Eye Liner

Titanium Metallic Crème Eye Colour

Glamour Faux Eye Lashes

Bisque Eye Basics

Azalea Cheek Colour

Violet Lip Glacé

Avant Garde Nail Lacquer

Nuit Enchantées Eau de Parfum

Chocolate Truffle Soufflé Body Crème

Summer Dewy Look

2009-06-18T20:47:00.005-05:00

Ever wonder how celebs like Rhianna have such a flawless, dewy complexion? Well, the flawless part mostly comes from photo retouching, but you can still achieve the same look.

Here are some tips to get that summer glow:

First, always start with a good moisturizer. If you are still looking for a great one, you should stop by Sephora and check out their Limited Edition Skin Moisturizer Sampler.
Then you want to apply an irredecent moisturizer on top. This will enhance the effect of light on your skin and add the sheen you want. One of my favorite products is MAC Strobe cream.

Next, apply your foundation. The foundation you choose makes all the difference. See my article on choosing the right foundation.

After you have applied the foundation, powder only your t-zone areas (forehead, bridge of the nose, and chin). This will leave all other areas natural and dewy looking.

Summer Makeover

2009-06-13T20:42:00.009-05:00

I found one of the coolest applications on the internet. It is time consuming, but plenty of fun! If you are looking for a change but wondering what you will look like, try Hollywood Virtual Makeover on Instyle's website. It is super cool!

Help my choose my new look. My husband likes the third one "Beyonce".

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I really want to know, so leave a comment ;). Click the comment link above the post. Thanks!

By the way, my eyebrows aren't really brown, they are black. For some reason that day I went with brown. ??

Summer Time Moisture!

2009-06-08T11:22:00.004-05:00

As we enter summer, we should be thinking of protecting our skin. For those of you who have great skin and like to go bare, try Oil of Olay Complete All Day UV Moisture Lotion. This is sun protection that still feels nice.

It gives just enough moisture without clogging the pores. It's also affordable....$8.99.

Mascara

2009-02-04T17:20:00.007-06:00

Choosing a mascara these days can be pretty tough, especially when there are so many choices. Mascara generally comes in three forms: thickening, lengthening, and defining. So, you want to ask yourself, "Do I want thicker, longer, or natural lashes?"

With mascara, don't feel like you have to go out and by the expensive brands at the department stores. Save your dough and splurge on other things (like foundation and powder). Afterall, mascara should be thrown away after one month anyway.

Here is the trick for achieving thicker or longer lashes:

For thicker lashes: Hold your wand horizontally and start at the root of your lashes. Wiggle the wand back and forth all the way to the tip (in a horizontal motion). This will thicken your lashes from the root to the tip. Repeat this several times to help separate the lashes. But don't dip the brush back in - this will create a lumpy look.

For longer lashes: Hold your wand vertically and apply from the base up. This will deposit most of the particles at the tip of your lashes, making them appear longer.

Don't forget to use a lash curler.

Mac Cosmetics discount

2009-01-05T21:16:00.001-06:00

For all you Mac lovers, they are offering 25% off everything online until 1/8/09!

Not sure what to get, check out my post, "What's in your make-up bag" for tips on the essentials every gal should have.

If you are an avid online shopper, you should also check out Sephora's 75% off sale. I believe all of the gift sets are on sale. If you would rather check it out in the store, they are offering the same prices. I went in the store the other day for an item (NARS lip gloss collection) that was not price reduced in the store and they honored the price without a question.

Happy Shopping!

Choosing a Foundation

2009-01-04T21:53:00.009-06:00

Foundation is the most important part of your make-up kit. This is what makes your skin look flawless and natural. If you have imperfections, blemishes, and uneven skin tones, you don't want to skip this investment. Also, try not to go too cheap with it either. The more expensive ones usually contain higher quality of pigments, which cause the foundation to last longer and appear more flattering. In my opinion, I would spend the most of my money on foundation and powder and use the piggy bank for eye shadows, etc.

Foundations come in different forms. Be sure to choose what is right for your skin.

Stick - creme foundation and concealer in one. Good option for those who want more coverage. Best for normal to dry skin.
Liquid - Suited for all skin types, as it may be found in oil-free, oil-absorbing, and moisturizing formulas, and it can be given in sheer to medium coverage. Usually gives less coverage than a creme foundation.
Creme - Formulated for dry-to normal complexions. Offers the highest coverage. Can also be used as concealor
Mousse - Actually a creme foundation that is whipped. Fabulous on mature skin because it does not collect fine lines. This product tends to sink into the skin rather than sit on top.
Tinted moisturizer - Moisturizer with added color. Perfect for summer months.
Creme-to-powder - This product is kinder to oily skin.
Powder compact - Sheer to medium coverage. Perfect for younger girls because it is low in oils and does not clog pores. I perfer Mac Studio Fix.
Pigmented mineral powder - Loose powder that provides medium to full coverage.

Foundation is usually the most difficult to choose, so if possible, don't do it alone. Start by selecting three shades that are close to your complexion. To pick the right color, it is best to test on your jawline (since this is the truest color to the rest of your face). I know we are tempted in the store to test on our wrists and the back of our hands, but you want to match your face ;).

See which color best blends in to your face.....this is best tested in daylight. Be sure the color isn't too red or yellow for your complexion.

Skin-Care Mistakes

2008-12-31T09:18:00.003-06:00

I was checking my email in yahoo and stumbled across this great article about skin-care. The author elaborates on 6 biggest mistakes people make with skin-care. I am guilty of #5, washing my face before shampooing. Conditioners and other shampoos contain ingredients that are pore-cloggers, so it is best to wash your face after shampooing and conditioning your hair.

Check out the article here.

Moisturize your face daily

2008-12-30T23:32:00.003-06:00

Moisturizing is an important part of skin care. It is also an important part of makeup application, as it allows your foundation to go on more smooth and evenly. This should be the one thing you put on your face before leaving home.

Moisturizer should be applied after washing your face and best on damp skin because it goes on more smoothly this way. There are so many types of moisturizers out there and they are not all for your face. Be sure to choose the right one for your skin type. They range from light to heavy creams.

Normal skin - Go for a light moisturizer to help even out dry areas
Dry skin - Find a heavier cream which is higher in emollients and richer (usually found in jars like the one in the picture)
Oily skin - After washing your face, you may develop dry spots, so choose an extremely light moisturizer to help even it out. Your skin will naturally produce oils, so you don't won't something too heavy.
Sensitive skin - Choose a moisturizer that is fragrance free

Here are a few face creams that I have found to be very good buys:

Aveda Hydrating Lotion

Mary Kay Timewise

Cetaphil

What's in your make-up bag?

2008-12-30T22:10:00.008-06:00

When I was younger, there was only a few things in my bag, essentially because I had no idea what to do with everything else. I had the basics: black eyeliner, lipstick, and maybe mascara. At that age, that was really all I needed because I still had that even skintone.

Over the years my skin started to form blotches, freckles, and omg bags! (I'm still beautiful, though;) I then began to learn about the importance of concealor, foundation, powder, blush, and so on.

My niece is at the age where she is experimenting with make-up, so I got her a basic starter kit and put together a list of items that she should have for that everyday natural look. I got her the "Flawless Face Kit" by Laura Mercier, and one of the holiday brush sets from Mac (that are now 25% off). She is 17 and still has that fresh face look, so I didn't recommend wearing makeup daily for her. At this age all she needs is a good moisturizer, lip gloss, mascara, and a natural blush.

Here is a list of items every girl should have. Check back later for a break down of these items and why they are important.