Showing posts with label Beauty. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Beauty. Show all posts

Wednesday, February 4, 2015

Valentine's Day Nails: Seashell Soft


These creamy neutrals are perfectly understated and flatter everyone. A flirty combo for Valentine's Day that is subtle enough for winter yet beachy enough to carry you into the summer.

/// FINGERS ///


Essie nail polish in ROMPER ROOM, $8.50


 /// TOES ///


Maybelline New York Color Show nail lacquer in NEUTRAL STATEMENT, $3.99


Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Wear it Wednesday: Too Taboo

The sun is showing it's face more and more and it's time to talk toenails. The beauty experts are encouraging us to be wild and bold in our picks this summer. The trends include intense colors of the rainbow; bold blues, vibrant oranges, electric greens. And my personal favorite - bright fuchsia.

Thank goodness for the fuchsia. Call me boring but I can't stomach looking down to a Kool-Aid color blue on my toes. To me a bright fuchsia screams confident. Put together. Classy but knows how to come out and play. A fuchsia manicure or pedicure looks great with everything from classic denim and navy to sleek black and is eye-catching on any skin tone.

Wondering what fuchsia hue has my attention? You better believe I'll be sporting this on my toes this summer.


 
 
Essie nail color is Too Taboo - part of the Essie Neon Collection.
 
 


Tuesday, September 17, 2013

Why Didn't I Think Of That?


Just can't seem to nail the wrap and roll technique that an ordinary curling iron requires? Ummm. Me neither. Luckily for the hair challenged that want that beach wave look (yes you can still rock this look even though summer is over), the Infiniti Pro by Conair Curl Secret ($99 on Ulta.com) is an automated curler that makes Taylor Swift-worthy waves a breeze.


To use, clamp a small section of hair in the round portion of the tool, Squeeze the handle and the tool rolls the hair up into the chamber. After you hear a series of beeps, release and the curl is set. Repeat as needed.

Skeptical? Read more reviews HERE.

Thursday, September 12, 2013

Make-up Must Haves for Fall 2013

 
Now that school supply shopping for the kids is over, it's time to shift gears away from crayons and make ourselves a priority. If you’re ready for a new look, the beauty trends seen on the fall 2013 runways are full of wearable inspiration. Here are the essential makeup items for the coming season:


- Oxblood Lipstick -

A little bit ’90s, a little bit bad- ass, and a lot chic. Stay-put tip: An invisible lip liner is an absolute must for keeping this color where it belongs.

Try: Forever 21 Creme Lipstick in Burgundy, $3.80, forever21.com; Rimmel Moisture Renew Lipstick in Burgundy Shine, $7.29, walgreens.com; Kat Von D Painted Love Lipstick in Rosary, $19, sephora.com.


- Matte Nail Polish -

Matte nails were everywhere at the fall fashion shows, and if all the recent matte polish and topcoat launches are any indication, we’re going to be seeing a lot less shine this season. Choose a matte topcoat rather than buying new matte polish as an economical way to transform your existing nail polish colors. To avoid streaking, apply one thin layer of the matte topcoat, let it dry, then apply a second.

Try: American Apparel Matte Top Coat, $6, americanapparel.net; Essie Matte About You Finisher, $10, nordstrom.com; Deborah Lippmann Flat Top, $20, beauty.com.

 
- Skinny Liquid Eyeliner -

Clever eyeliner swipes and variations on the cat eye were seen on tons of runways from New York to Paris. A skinny eyeliner pen is the most versatile tool to get these looks - you can draw a thick or thin line with it, and it’s more precise than a pencil.

Try: Maybelline Eye Studio Master Precise Ink Pen Eyeliner, $7.99, ulta.com; Urban Decay 24/7 Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner, $19, macys.com; Marc Jacobs Beauty Magic Marc-er, $30, sephora.com
 

- CC Cream -

Last year was all about the BB cream, but CC creams have since taken over. These so-called “color correcting” creams tend to be sheerer than BB creams and foundation, boast a skin-perfecting tint, and usually contain some active skin care ingredients and SPF.

Try: L’Oreal Visible Lift CC Cream, $12.99, ulta.com; Yes to Grapefruit CC Cream, $15.99, target.com; Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream, $35, bonton.com.


- Chunky Eyeshadow Pencils -

There’s no easier way to put a shimmery wash of color on your lids than with an eyeshadow pencil. From a full smoky eye to a subtle hint of color, you’ll reach for one of these all season long. Bonus: No brushes or applicators required. Just swipe on and blend with your finger.

Try: NYX Cosmetics Jumbo Eye Pencil, $4.49, ulta.com; Sephora + Pantone Universe Jumbo Waterproof Eye Pencil, $17, sephora.com; Makeup Forever Aqua Shadow, $20, sephora.com



- Metallic Nail Polish -

Metallic nail polish was a big thing at the Fall 2013 shows, and it’s a look that’s really versatile. Consider chrome, gold, rose gold, and bronze, this season’s neutrals.

Try: Maybelline Color Show Metallics, $3.99, ulta.com; RGB Nail Polish in Slate, $16, otteny.com.


- Orange and Copper Eyeshadow -

Orange-y copper eye makeup was many a designer’s choice this season. Skeptical? Hear us out. When it skews coppery, this metallic shade is surprisingly wearable. If metal isn’t your thing, reach for a subtle peachy shade to open your eyes and make them pop - it’s particularly flattering on blue-eyed girls.

Try: Target Botanics Eyeshadow Duo in Copper, $6.49, target.com; Stila Cosmetics Eyeshadow Pan in Compact-Copper, $18, dermstore.com; NARS Duo Eyeshadow in Alhambra, $34, net-a-porter.com.

 
 - A Beauty Blender -

Foundation should never look like a caked-on mask, but this season natural “no makeup-makeup” is bigger than ever. For that perfect skin appearance, swap your foundation brush for an egg-shaped Beauty Blender sponge. The unique shape helps blend in foundation seamlessly and only where you need it.

Try: Beauty Blender, $28.95 for two, zappos.com; Models Own Acorn Sponge Set, $11.88, us.asos.com; Stila Double Ended Blending Sponge, $12, dillards.com

Monday, September 9, 2013

RAVE REVIEW: A product EVERY girl should own

 
I was fed up. And I mean FED up with my cosmetic brushes. They were MAC. And always shedding. Anyone else annoyed with loose bristles stuck to your face? If so - you need to check out Ecotools make-up brushes. Getting gorgeous, going green, and giving back is what Ecotools is all about!

I am smitten over their Domed Bronzer Brush. Super dense. Never sheds. Incredibly soft. Totally affordable. I got mine for under $10 and now after using it, I would have easily paid 3 times as much seeing how flawless it applies the powder. And did I mention - it NEVER sheds!!


And all their brushes are environmentally friendly, 100% Cruelty-Free, 100% vegan, made of bamboo + recycled aluminum. They have an entire line of beauty products not just brushes; eyelashes, bath products, cosmetic bags. Make sure to check out their 6 piece starter kit for $12.99 that was awarded one of 'In Style's' 2013 Best Beauty Buys.

You can find Ecotools at Target, Walmart, Amazon, Drugstore.com among other places.

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

If you do one thing this week: Clean out your hairdryer

 
People always ask me how I manage to always have my hair washed, dried and flat ironed. Besides the obvious that I have to get up a tad earlier to make this happen, I do also clean the lint/dust trap in my hairdryer on a consistent basis which according to Glamour magazine and Harry Josh, celebrity hair stylist, will cut your get ready time down significantly.

By cleaning out the lint, the air flowing into the dryer will circulate better so it can continue to blow out with full force, so the process is shorter. Wow. What a aw-ha bit of information.

Wondering how often you should do this? Hairdressers do it almost daily as their hairdryers get used much more but for the average home use, once a week is recommended.

If the grooves on your hairdryer are small, I recommend using an old toothbrush or tooth pick. I will warn you, it is a bit tedious so don't attempt this on a morning you have to be out the door at a certain time. Once you have all the lint/dust cleaned out, take a damp cloth to wipe down the hairdryer.

Thursday, December 6, 2012

Gift Guide: Mail Order Beauty


No time to shop? Stumped on what to give a girlfriend that has everything? Give the gift of a
re-occuring monthly box of high-end assorted cosmetics. Truly the gift that keeps on giving.

For only $10-$21 per month (you can pick how many months you want the box delievered), the recipient will be able to try out in-demand, luxe skin creams, perfumes, makeup, and hair products.

Here are a few beauty bento boxes to consider:


Birchbox: Sidestep dissapointment by testing trial-size luxe beauty supplies that have receieved numerous thumbs-up. My favorite option from the list. $10/month. www.birchbox.com

 
Myglam: Not only does myglam offer it's four or five monthly samples in full or deluxe sizes, it also includes a cute makeup bag with every package. The website offers makeup tutorials too. $10/month. www.myglam.com

Beautyarmy: This sampling program recommends makeup, fragrances, and more based on feedback from customer questionnaires. You can take user's advice or select six goodies on your own. $12/month. www.beautyarmy.com


Eco-Emi: If going green is more your style the Eco-Emi box will include 5-10 samples of natural, organic, green, Fair Trade or eco-friendly products in chic earth friendly packaging. $15/month. www.eco-emi.com



Glossybox: Delivers at least five products in-demand cosmetic products from lines like C.O. Bigelow, Cargo and Burberry Beauty with the occasional full-size item - no teensy-weensy foil samples here. $21/month. www.glossybox.com

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Glam It Up: Thanksgiving Day Make-up


Step away from the oven and give yourself 20 minutes to make yourself look fall and festive with this BRONZY SMOKY EYE look on Thanksgiving Day:

Here's how:
 
1. Start out with a bit of foundation on the eyelids and set with loose powder. This will give your lids the perfect base to apply shadows and blend them flawlessly.

2. Take a medium to dark shimmery shade of either copper, bronze or slate and apply all over the lids up to the crease. Try MAC PRO Reflects in Antique Gold.

3. Using a clean soft brush, blend that out towards the temples. I like to blend up as well for a great smokey cat eye. Line all along the upper lash line with a black pencil and go thicker with the line towards the outer corners.


4. Using a small brush or Q-Tip, blend the top line a bit so that the liner blends into the shadow on the lid.

5. Curl lashes and apply a couple of coats of mascara. Try Lancome's Hypnose Drama mascara for great volume and length.

6. Clean off the under eye area with a makeup wipe. Apply concealer underneath the eyes. Try Smashbox High Definition Liquid Concealer.

7. Set concealer with a loose powder. Use the black pencil along the inner rim of the eyes and feel free to go outside of the inner rim and along the lower lashes just a bit.

8. Using the copper shadow on a smaller brush, smoke the lower lash line right below the black line. Blend with a clean brush so there are no harsh lines.

9. Finish the eyes with black mascara on the lower lashes as well.


Wednesday, October 17, 2012

2012 fall looks for your locks

Your wardrobe’s not the only thing in need of an update this fall — admit it, you’re kind of sick of sporting the same beachy, messy strands every day, aren't you? Not to mention how fried your mane looks after all those months of fun in the sun. Clearly, it's time to change it up as fall 2012 gets underway.

{Style}

Blunt Bangs: If you’ve got ‘em, flaunt ‘em. Bangs are the ultimate hair accessory this season. Whether they’re full and square, short and rounded or just swept to the side, bangs frame the face and accentuate the eyes. When styling, start drying the bangs first and remember to use the nozzle attachment on your blow-dryer. The key to getting the perfect style is by directing the airflow straight down from the root . Using a vent or denman brush and brushing side to side will keep them sleek and prevent you from looking like you’re seven-years-old again and your mother just cut your fringe with some kitchen shears. No bangs? No worries! Go commitment-free and use clip-in textured bangs from LUXHAIR™. They are simple to use and come in a variety of shades.

 
Perfectly Imperfect: Your friend calls it bedhead, you call it beach hair. Call it what you want but it's fabulous and effortless. Imperfect texture catches the eye and leaves a statement. But you can’t get that seductively captivating coif without using great product. Word to the wise, invest in some dry shampoo or a sprayable root powder and some pomade. Dry shampoo or sprayable powder “dirties” up the hair and gives you instant playful texture. For the ends, rub a little pomade on your thumb and pointer finger and gently twist the ends of hair to keep texture waves in place.

 
Boisterous Bouffants: Not the Amy Winehouse kind, think more vintage Sophia Loren. This is going to be a great style for fall brides who want to ditch the updos and go for something more dramatic. When looking for a point of reference, flip through vintage magazines. Elle magazine even is chock-full of inspiration and throwback. Remember this, classics never make a comeback. They wait for that perfect moment to take the spotlight from overdone, tired trends.

 
Buns, Braids & Twists: Whether braided around the crown, coiled half-back or knotted into an updo, hair is getting manipulated into a fresh, new direction this season. While some looks require an extra set of hands, others put a simple and attainable twist on the classics. Double fishtails and triple braids are taking plaits to the next level. My advice to you: practice makes perfect. Grab some dry shampoo and start watching how-to videos. You’ll be surprised how simple some of these styles are to achieve.

 
Sweeping Side Part: The hottest look for a night out is a deep side part. If that part is not at least three inches in length then start over. The wider the part, the more open your eyes appear. It is an alluring and seductive look that will keep your date’s attention the entire night. To get the most drama out of the part, I recommend using the highest point of your eyebrow as a point of reference. Using a fine-tooth comb, slowly draw your comb back from the crown to create the part. Once the part has been created, spray medium-hold hairspray onto a boar bristle brush and brush hair on both sides away from the part to set it. Next, spray hair all over with a lightweight hairspray. To add a little glimmer and reflection, use small amount of shine serum along the part line. The light will bounce of it and make your eyes sparkle.

 
Perfect Ponytail: Ponytails this season, no matter if they’re high or low, are perfectly precise and chic and not that gym-wearing pony you’ve been trying to pass off as fashionable. Put some effort and styling into the look. It will only take two minutes and you’ll look like you just stepped off the runway and not out of a Body Pump class. First, prep your hair with a light serum to add shine. Pull hair back using a flat brush to get hair smooth. Secure with a band. Next, take a lightweight hairspray and spray lightly, To smooth down the surface and prevent those pesky bumps, spray hairspray onto a clean toothbrush (or a small hard bristle brush) and run it over the surface of your pony tail.

{Color}

 
Rich Chocolates & Cool Reds: You’re going to see a shift in color this season, especially in brunettes and reds. Color will go from less caramel to deep chocolate, less coppery to cool and slightly spicy crimson. During a color consultation, reference food as a visual. Hot fudge and orange marmalade paint a clearer picture and helps prevent end results that leave you feeling unsatisfied.

 
Brave Blonde: It’s time to say good-bye to flaxen and golden hues and hello to cooler, icy blondes and creamy white highlights. Now that the seasons are changing and your summer bronze-y glow is slowly fading, it’s important for all you blondes to adjust your hair color to complement your skin color. If icy and white is too extreme for your eye color and skin tone, then go more beige-y or even a little ash-y. Trust your colorist and let them determine what’s best for you. And don’t forget to maintain the look. Make sure you’re seeing your colorist on a regular basis, even if it is for a slight touch-up. Remember, when you stretch out your appointments the process if more intense and time consuming which results in a higher ticket price. Also look into shampoos that help neutralize the brass and keep you always looking cool.

{Cuts}


Bobs: Bobs come in all forms; angled, modern, lobs, etc. The cut and styling options are endless. They key to pulling of the perfect bob is finding a look that complements your bone structure. If you have a more round face, then opt for a lob with side-swept bangs. If you have a longer neck and pronounced chin, then a modern bob with a blunt fringe will make your eyes pop. It’s also important your stylist is up-to-date on his or her education. Don’t be shy to ask questions and inquire about them furthering their craft. If they haven’t taken a class in the past two years, then it’s time to find someone new.

Click HERE for the 20 hottest bobs of 2012

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Nailed it: Top 3 fall favorites


Move over, eye shadow, and step aside, lipstick; there’s a new must-have beauty product this fall - dark and dramatic nail polish.

With a new season, comes new colors and with fall upon us, it's time to shake up your roster of go-to nail polish colors. You don't necessarily have to say bye-bye to those bright summer hues, but fall’s hottest nail ideas will definitely have you rethinking a shade or two.

While these aren't all of fall's latest nail color trends, these are my top three that I'll be sure to try:



 | GREY | 

China Glaze, Concrete Catwalk, $6


I love that grey is sticking around, and I'm not talking Fifty Shades of Grey. Consider concrete grey your new favorite neutral. Although it’s more eye-catching than nude or white, it won’t interfere with your everyday style.
 


| CHOCOLATE BROWN | 


Laura Mercier, Cocoa Suede, $18

Could brown become the new black?
Try this shade with gold rings or bracelets for a chic, modern kick.
 
 
| BURNT ORANGE |


L’OrĂ©al, L’Orange, $6

Why not match your nails to the fall foliage?
 


For the entire list of fall's nail trends, click HERE.

Friday, August 10, 2012

What I'm wearing now...


Found this fab find at Target and it's honestly the most TANtastic powder I've worn in a long time. Although Milani carries several shades of this Multitasker Face Powder, I use it specifically as a bronzing powder.

Why do I love it so much? It's a multi-purpose face powder with light to medium coverage so it covers what I need without feeling heavy and caked with makeup. It provides a natural matte finish without any discoball shimmer. I've found it evens out my skin tone from the sun spots on my lower jawbone and aborbs excess oil to reduce any shine. It lasts for hours and alittle goes a long way. For an extreme multitasker like myself, this product, and it's price, lives up to my standards.

The color I wear: Medium Tan - 06.  Available at Target for a whopping $5.99.

See what others are saying about this product HERE.

Thursday, August 9, 2012

Paper Pile-up Prevention


Between now and the holidays you might feel more inclined to save magazines to be inspired, discover new trends and find the latest fab products. But I have a better idea - download the no-fee Google Catalogs app to your iPad or Android tablet device and say goodbye to piles of clutter while making catalog shopping more engaging, social and creative.

The Google Catalogs app features digital versions of catalogs across many popular categories, including fashion and apparel, beauty, jewelry, home, kids and gifts. They’ve partnered with a variety of top brands including Anthropologie, Bare Escentuals, Bergdorf Goodman, Bloomingdale's, Crate and Barrel, L.L. Bean, Lands’ End, Macy’s, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Pottery Barn, Saks Fifth Avenue, Sephora, Sundance Catalog, Tea Collection, Urban Outfitters and Williams-Sonoma, just to name a few of the over 400 catalogs.

In addition they have over 100 top brands including; Barneys, Tory Burch and Trina Turk (Fashion & Apparel); BeautyBar (Beauty); Blu Dot, FLOR, and Ballard Designs (Home); Hanna Andersson, CWDkids, and Serena & Lily (Kids); and Garnet Hill, Uncommon Goods, and Wine Enthusiast (Gifts).

Google Catalogs is an incredibly useful online shopping tool that lets you search through and mark favorite products, and gives you links to make purchases directly from retailers' sites. It also lets you create a collage of your favorite items from across many catalogs. You can even share your collages with friends and family - a visual way to show them what’s on your list for the holiday season!


Love it.

Visit the App Store to download the free Google Catalogs app.