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Thursday, July 31, 2008

Shear Genius Recap: Fallen Angels

My oh my! Shear Genius was a disaster all the way around this week. It was a week when we learned that "America loves a shapely woman" (according to Charlie) and then heard a confusing analogy about a midget wearing flats from Kim Vo. I've done some thinking about it and Kim Vo reminds me of Michael York in Logan's Run (this revelation is especially appropriate since Farrah Faucet and her hair were featured in both Logan's Run and this week's Shear Genius challenge).

But I digress. On to the recap!

SHORT CUT CHALLENGE
It was the rainbow of fruit flavors short cut challenge. The stylists had to add bold, vibrant colors to their clients' hair. People ended up with super red hair, streaks of yellow, and all sorts of craziness. This challenge reminded me of my high school/college days. I have always been very blonde, and for a time there I was dying my goldilocks all sorts of wacky colors. Manic Panic was my best friend. I once put a shock of pink through the front of my hair, hoping it would wash out after a week. Six months later, I still had that ultra-pink streak. It was annoying.

The stylists had a generous four hours to do their cut and color. The winner would have immunity in the coming elimination challenge and would play a "special role" in that challenge. There was some minor drama and plenty of cattiness. Nekisa found new ways to blame the world for her failures, and Paulo committed the cardinal sin of ignoring the sage advice of Master Vo.

Charlie won with this equestrian-inspired look:Though Nekisa came in almost last, Paulo took the loser seat with this non-blue do:ELIMINATION CHALLENGE
After a hyped up bitch session between Charlie and Nekisa back at home, the stylists returned to the salon for the Charlie's Angels Challenge. As the short cut winner, Charlie would not be competing in this round. Instead he paired up the remaining six stylists who had to give three women updated looks inspired by the three original Charlie's Angels characters. He also wandered around, supposedly offering assistants to all three teams.

Here's the problem with this challenge: no one remembers Charlie's Angels that well. It ran from 1976 to 1981. I am 32 years old and have a vague memory of the show. I did, however, have a favorite angel: Chris, played by Cheryl Ladd. So...it's my theory that the stylists are too young to really remember the show, and if they were old enough to remember Charlie's Angels, they were probably so coked-out that that entire time period is just a giant blur of big hair and polyester. Need proof of my claim? Just watch Kate Jackson's hand at judging this week. When asked what she thought of the styles, she said she had no thoughts in her head. Yikes.

For whatever reason, the elimination challenge was a disaster. Everyone's look sucked. Everyone went in the same, tired direction. The judges complained about wanting a more modern, updated look, saying that they see Jacquelyn Smith's hair every day...and her hair is what they were going for. Um....ok. What kind of challenge was this exactly?

After a severe tongue lashing from the judges, the contestants were told that they all sucked so badly that no one would be the night's winner. The bottom two came down to Glenn and (surprise, surprise) Nekisa. Nekisa was, inexplicably, spared from elimination yet again. The look of shock and disgust on the other contestants' faces was priceless. They all seemed disgusted and dismayed that Glenn was packing her scissors and going home. I think Charlie's earlier statement needs revision: the Shear Genius judges love a shapely woman. Any American watching the show probably rolled their eyes and cursed their TVs in disbelief.

Anyway....it was a weird night in Shear Genius land. And I've decided: I do like Paulo (or is it Paolo? I see it spelled differently all over the place!). However, now that I said that, I fully expect Paulo to be sent home next week. Just watch: Nekisa will end up winning this whole damn thing. Ugh.

On an unrelated note, don't forget to enter my Lush giveaway! Click here for the details.

If Loving You Is Wrong, I Don't Wanna Be Right


Lately, my bedtime routine involves removing my contact lenses, washing my face, applying Bioelements Recovery Serum, and curling up with Bitter Is The New Black before drifting off to sleep. But everytime I apply the silky, emollient product, it just feels so wrong...like I've accidentally grabbed a bottle of silicone hair serum and smeared it all over my face. Yes, it feels wrong. But when used consistently, you'll understand why it's so right.

"Super-charged with a skin-repairing blend of lipids, ceramides and aromatherapist oils," Recovery Serum repairs and soothes damaged, over-exfoliated or aging skin and restores its moisture barrier. Apply it in the AM, and marvel at how your makeup goes on smoother and lasts longer, thanks to the smooth-as-glass finish it gives the skin. Or apply in the PM and wake up all glowy and gorgeous.

And that silicone feel? That's just temporary. Mere minutes after application, your face will drink in the Recovery Serum like it's your skin's J-O-B. And all that's left is a healthy, dewy glow. Pretty slick, right?

Bioelements Recovery Serum retails for $62.00 and is only available at select salons and spas. Click here to find a location near you.

Sisterhood of the Gorgeous Gals


Blake Lively, Alexis Bledel, America Ferrera and Amber Tamblyn at the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2 premiere.


I have a total girl crush on America...usually, she can do no wrong in my eyes. But I must admit that I'm not loving the Amy Winehouse-inspired makeup and hair. However, she redeemed herself with a stunning strapless Brian Reyes dress and Christian Louboutin stilettos. America said, "I'm not sure if people recognized me, but I definitely got some strange looks!"


Blake is resplendent in a tangerine Gucci gown. I'm totally digging the microbraids.


Amber shocked me - and not in a good way - by wearing pants. From the photos, it looks like someone took an old bridesmaids dress and fashioned it into a jumpsuit-esque ensemble. The makeup is meh. And the hair is so boring, I'm falling asleep just looking at it. I mean, I'm sporting the same hairstyle right now...but I'm not at a Hollywood premiere standing next to Serena VanderWoodsen.


Alexis absolutely blew me away with her glowing skin and punchy lip color. This Gilmore girl certainly grew up! Her hair was pulled back in a simple (yet chic) bun, allowing her gorgeous face to take center stage. Check out those baby blues! Alexis gets my vote for best-dressed - she paired her black ribbon-trimmed dress by Mischen with strappy gladiator heels.

Patience Is A Virtue: MAC Cult of Cherry Available in September


The Cult of Cherry is luscious, dramatic, undeniably eroticized. Ripened lips, Spiced Hot Chocolate eyes or Illegal Purple nails, combine to seduce with a sweet-and-shock, way-to-go dark. Separates the bitter from the sweet. This drama just gets more delicious.


Lipstick
Crème Cerise: Sheer yellow taupe (lustre)
Lightly Ripe: Sheer mid-tone pink (lustre)
Russian Red: Intense bluish red (matte)
"O": Intense purplish red with metallic gold (frost)
So Scarlet: Clean grape burgundy (amplified)
Suggested Retail Price: $14.00 U.S.


Lipglass
Cherry Blossom: Sheer light pink with multi-dimensional pearl (frost)
Rich & Ripe: Mid-tone pinkish red with multi-dimensional pearl (frost)
Cult of Cherry: Clean red with red pearl (frost)
Liqueur: Neutral brownish mauve with multi-dimensional pearl (frost)
Jampacked: Sheer grape with multi-dimensional pearl (frost)
Suggested Retail Price: $14.00 U.S.


Mattene
Rapturous: Deep berry red (matte)
Kirsch: Blackened cranberry (matte)
Chock-ful: Blackened brown (matte)
Bing: Blackened eggplant (matte)
Suggested Retail Price: $14.50 U.S.


PowderBlush
Blooming: Frosted deep dirty peach (frost)
Plum de Bois: Frosted deep pink bronze with gold pearl (frost)
Suggested Retail Price: $17.50 U.S.


Nail Lacquer
Silverstruck: Frosty greyed taupe with multi-dimensional pearl (frost)
Illegal Purple: Creamy blackened eggplant (cream)
Suggested Retail Price: $10.00 U.S.


ZoomLash
Zoom Black: Rich black
Suggested Retail Price: $11.00 U.S.


Eyeshadow X4 – Spiced Chocolate Quad
Nanogold: Sheer yellow pink with pink pearl (frost)
Brash: Frosty reddish copper (vxp)
Spiced: Dirty deep reddish brown (matte)
Sweet Chestnut: Frosted cranberry (frost)
Suggested Retail Price: $36.00 U.S.


Eyeshadow X4 – Tempting Quad
Next to Nothing: Sheer yellow beige with pink pearl (frost)
Sharp: Frosty bright yellow gold (satin)
Dark Edge: Dirty chocolate brown (satin)
Tempting: Rich coco (lustre)
Suggested Retail Price: $36.00 U.S.


Eyeshadow X4 – Shadowy Lady Quad
Light Fall: Dirty light pink (satin)
Smudge Violet: Frosty blackened lavender with multi-dimensional pearl (frost)
Deep Truth: Very dark blue (frost)
Shadowy Lady: Darkly veiled plum (matte)
Suggested Retail Price: $36.00 U.S.

Available:
September 2008 at all MAC locations and maccosmetics.com.

Make-up Trend: Neon Pink Pout

It's impolite to call people names, but Bollywood is full of loud mouths. Stars like Shenaz Treasuryvala haven't uttered a controversial word, but they've made as bold a statement as any with creamy, nearly-neon fuchsia lipstick.

Get in line! With a shade this bright, precision is key. Carefully swipe on lip color with a stiff lip brush.

Rec: NARS Lipstick in Funny Face

Don't Forget to Enter!

In honor of my 2nd blog anniversary and to ring in year 3, I'm having a little giveaway!

Click here to enter for your chance to win a Wild Child gift set from Lush. This yummy set contains Chocolate Whipstick lip balm, Happy Hippy shower gel, Rock Star soap and a Flosty Gritter bubble bar. Fun stuff!

Good luck!

Beauty Product of the Week: Tassi

What is it? The Tassi "is a unique solution for keeping your hair out of your face. Use while washing your face, doing facials, or applying makeup. Easy to use! Unlike a head band or clips, Tassi gently hold your hair without flattening or denting it." Available in 12 colors for $14.99. Check out the website for ordering information and retail locations.

What did you think? I have bangs. Bangs are a royal pain when I need to put on makeup or wash my face. The rest of my hair goes easily into a ponytail, but my bangs need to be clipped down or dealt with in some fashion to get them out of my way. It's annoying.

The Tassi looks like a messed up pair of terrycloth underwear. But don't let that fool you! It actually goes on your head. You put your head through the middle of the Tassi, letting it rest on your neck. Then you pull the Tassi over your face, skinny side up...wide side in the back. After that, you just tuck your hair into the back of the Tassi and viola! Ready to go!

The Tassi held my hair up off the back of my neck while keeping my bangs out of my face and out of the way. It did just what it said it would. And when I was done with my face washing, I just pulled the Tassi off, shook out my hair, and was able to style my locks quickly. Sometimes, using clips and elastics would leave funny bumps or ridges in my hair...not so with the Tassi!

The final verdict? This is a keeper! What an easy way to keep the hair out of your face without destroying your 'do. This would be a great stocking stuffer for Christmas, or just a great anytime gift for your favorite girly-girl. One final thought: because this is terrycloth, you can just toss it in the washing machine if it gets dirty. It can't get any easier!

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

25% Off Freeze 24-7


Get 25% off your next purchase at freeze247.com. Simply enter promo code Awards at checkout.

You Belong In Pictures

Marie Claire’s Sexy 101 List

Which cosmetics, beauty trends and industry pros made Marie Claire’s Sexy 101 List?


Sexiest lipstick: NARS Belle de Jour


Sexiest fragrance: Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb


Sexiest hair: Christina Ricci's bob


Sexiest hairstylist: Orlando Pita


Sexiest makeup bag must: Soap & Glory Sexy MotherPucker Lip Gloss


Sexiest self tanner: Prescriptives Good in Bed


Sexiest color: Purple


Sexiest lashes: Clinique Lash Power


Sexiest polish: CND Nail Gloss

For the remaining 92 “celebs, splurges, trends, and places that will leave you begging for more,” pick up Marie Claire’s August 2008 issue.

Vogue India August 2008: Ticket to Bollywood

Ethereal Ideal
THINK: Aishwarya Rai in Devdas and Vidya Balan in Parineeta.

INSIDER TIP:
"The secret for consistently flawless skin is locking in your foundation. Pat translucent powder over your finished look so that it stays on longer." says make-up artist Vipul Bhagat. He also adds, "Sit in a cool area with proper ventilation."

PRODUCTS FEATURED (clockwise from the top):
Inglot Body Glitter Sparkler, Biotique Almond Eyes Kajal, L'Oreal Color Me Naturals in Brunette, Yves Saint Laurent Perfect Touch Radiant Brush Foundation in Sand, Chanel Rouge Allure Luminous Satin Lip Color in Chic, Lancôme Hypnôse Onyx Custom Volume Mascara in Deep Black, O.P.I Nail Lacquer in Royal Rajah Ruby, Kryolan Translucent Powder

My Three Sunblocks

If you've read my blog for any length of time, you no doubt know that I am not a sun worshiper. Hell, when it comes to the sun and my skin tone, I am downright vampiric! I am extremely fair skinned, have blonde hair and blue eyes...add to that an irrational fear of skin cancer, and you'll understand why I don't go running out to tanning beds. And why I am, most likely, Vitamin D deficient.

Anyway...being a heliophobe (the Lydia term for a super pale goth girl), I wear sunblock every day of my life. I thought I'd share my favorite sunblocks that I've been using this summer.

Aveeno Active Naturals Daily Moisturizing Lotion with SPF 15: $11.00 (approx); available at drugstores
Why I like it: This provides sun coverage and moisturizing all in one cream. It is a bit thick, but it goes on easily. Plus it has almost no scent so it won't interfere with perfumes or other fragrances. I put it on when I get out of the shower and can breath a bit easier knowing that I have at least some protection for the day.
What I'd change: Not much--maybe just increase the SPF to 30 or higher.
Best for: Limited sun exposure; everyday use (don't use on your face--it's too greasy!)

MD Skincare Powerful Protection SPF 30 Sunscreen Pads: $42; available at Sephora and department stores
Why I like it: These are so convenient and are a snap to use. They're like moist towelettes that provide a nice layer of sun protection. They're so simple to use I can even get my hubby to use them without too much complaint.
What I'd change: The price. Convenience never comes cheap.
Best for: Stashing in your bag for use when you didn't expect to be in the sun.

Skin Effects by Dr. Jeffery Dover Sun Effects SPF 45 Active Sunscreen Continuous Spray: $12.99; available at CVS
Why I like it: It sprays on quickly, providing coverage without getting your hands all gunked up with lotion. It smells good and feels cool on the skin...a nice bonus in the summer!
What I'd change: I'd cut down the drying time just a bit, but it's so easy to use that I'll forgive it.
Best for: A day at the beach! I used this on my recent vacation and maintained my ultra-white complexion.

No matter what you use, be sure to use an SPF product daily. The sun does all sorts of wonderful things, but I, for one, am paranoid about a potential burn.

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

New From MAC: Starflash


Hollywood's new Power Couple. Our 12 new limited-edition Starflash shadows, combined with Kohl Power Eye Pencil. Shades for a smooth, creamy, cushioned life. Provides the double-wattage impact that will take you to the new stylesphere!

Starflash Eye Shadow: A remarkably creamy jet-milled pressed Eye Shadow that provides a distinctive pearly finish. Provides smooth-as-silk application with no dust or fly-aways. Medium buildable coverage allows versatility in application. Use discreetly or build it up. Long-wearing. Lasts all day without creasing or fading. Blends effortlessly, stays colour-true. Limited edition.

Star By Night: Frosty midtone blue
Talent Pool: Frosty blue green with gold pearl
Smoke & Diamonds: Frosty dirty taupe
Top Hat: Frosty dirty indigo
Lotusland: Frosted pinky lavender with gold pearl
Sunset: Frosty clean midtone pink
Bold & Brazen: Frosty light copper
Grand Entrance: Frosty neutral pink beige
Glamour Check: Frosty reddish brown
Mink & Sable: Frosty olive green
Dreammaker: Frosty yellow gold
Go: Frosted bronze
Suggested retail: $14.50

Kohl Power Eye Pencil: A kohl pencil that has all the intensity and colour power of ultra-soft carbon. Specially formulated to provide deep, fully opaque coverage, provides an intense, smoked finish with duo-chrome pearl. Versatile in application: blend or smudge.

Orpheus: Intense black with gold pearl (frost)
Mystery: Rich black with green and teal pearl (frost)
Feline: Rich black (frost)
Raven: Intense black with red pearl (frost)

Suggested retail: $14.00

Plushlash: A mascara formulated to instantly plump up lashes for extreme voluptuous effect. Works fast. Builds volume smoothly and evenly from root to tip. Delivers a silky, flexible, full fan of lashes. Fluid formula lightly coats lashes one layer at a time without smearing, smudging or clumping. Goes on via an innovative, specially patented wand with a v-shaped groove that prunes the bristles on one side while leaving the other side full and lush. The short bristles coax the lashes upward to an extraordinarily sophisticated yet flirtatious curl, while the other side separates and combs the lashes root-to-tip creating a long, well-defined glamour lash. Volumizing, lengthening, curling, lifting. This mascara features everything you want, with all the top mascara no’s: no clumping, spiking, smudging or flaking.

Plushblack: Black

Suggested retail: $12.00

Now available at MAC counters and maccosmetics.com.

New From MAC: Lustre Twins


Nine new shades of Pro Longwear Lustre Lipcolour featuring an exclusive sheer pigment top coat, with three Nail Lacquers. Separate if you must, but these Lustre Twins shouldn't live without each other. Codependent couture colour and shine starts here!

Pro Longwear Lustre Lipcolour: A two-step application of lightweight colour + mirror-finished top coat. Apply the colour. Let it dry. Apply the top coat! Provides sheer to medium coverage with a rich, lustrous, moisturizing finish. Longwearing, comfortable on the lips. Won’t shift, transfer, feather or smudge. Replacement top coats available.

Alta Moda/Hip Love: Deep blackened red/Deep plum with red with pearl
Boss Brown/Slave To Pink: Chocolate bronze with pearl/Campagne neutral with pearl
Coco Lust/Sexy Sweet: Deep red brown/copper brown with gold pearl
Custom Rose/Pink Virtue: Berry plum with pearl/Light blue pink with silver pearl
Gypsy Rose/Shimmer It: Berry red with gold pearl/White gold with multicolored pearl
Pink Air/White Top: Ligt pink with pearl/Clear white with red and pink pearl
Red Flame/Orange Flicker: Intense bright yellow red/Bright yellow red with gold pearl
Red Reflection/Mirror: Deep berry magenta with pearl/clear with white pearl
Ripe & Ready/Soft & Lush: Clean bright pink coral with gold pearl/Yellow pink with gold pearl

Suggested retail: $20.00

Nail Lacquer: Revolutionary new high gloss formula. Three long-wearing finishes - Cream, Sheer, and Frosted. Visibly different. Provides no-streak/no-chip finish. Contains conditioners and UV protection. Go hi-lacquer!

Firehouse: Clean bright chrome red (frost)
Perplexing: Deep blue purple (frost)
$$$$$ Yes: Metallic silver foil (frost)

Suggested retail: $11.00

Now available at MAC counters and maccosmetics.com.

Membership Has Its Privileges: Ideeli.com


Look at my luscious new handbag. Don’t you just love it? For the past few weeks, I’ve been tempted by quite a few pretty purses. But something told me to hold out…to wait for true love. And as soon as I laid my eyes on this heavenly handbag, I thanked that little voice inside my head.

The “Laguna” bag from Abaco, a hard-to-find French label, retails for $750. But I scooped this baby up (in dove gray) for just $250 – thanks to Ideeli.com.

Ideeli is a members-only shopping community for trendsetting women. The website offers authentic, luxury handbags, jewelry, sunglasses, and more…for up to 90% off the original price! There are 4 to 6 shopping events per week, plus incredible giveaways – like this Tessuto Multicolor Tote by Prada (original price: $1650.00).

Ideeli has been featured in O Magazine and The New York Times. And here’s what cnet News.com had this to say about Ideeli: "It's Woot.com meets 'The Devil Wears Prada.'"

If you love the idea of paying $239 for a $600 pair of Christian Lacroix shoes, or $110 for $350 Gucci sunglasses – get thee to Ideeli. There's just one catch …Ideeli.com membership is by referral only. Lucky for you, I’m a member. If you want to join the club (membership is free), email me at spoiledpretty@gmail.com - be sure to include the email address where you would like your invite delivered.

You’re welcome.

Pop Goes The Hair Elastic


Whatever you do, do not purchase “Ponytailers” from Conair’s Styling Essentials line. On a recent trip to CVS, I purchased a set of 75. I used them for the first time the other day, and I’m so upset by the poor quality that I’m tempted to write Conair and demand my money back. Here’s what had happened…

I pulled my hair back into a low pony and secured with one elastic. Then I coiled my hair into a bun and secured with another elastic. While running errands, I felt something hit me in the back of the head – like someone threw something at me. But when I look back, there’s no one in sight…so I chalk it up to my overactive imagination. Then, five minutes later, the same thing happens. I hear a sound behind me, and it feels like someone has thrown something at my head – so now I’m peeved. Except, again, there’s no one there. I reach back and find that my hair is no longer in a bun. Or even in a ponytail. My tangled mess of a mane is flowing freely down my back. Both of the elastics had failed me by up and deciding to spontaneously burst.

I rummaged through my purse for anything resembling a hair taming accessory, but came up empty-handed. Frankly, I was embarrassed to have a handbag so bereft of beauty accessories. Fortuitously, I found a twist-tie (why I have a twist-tie but no barrettes or hair clips is beyond me) in my bag and MacGyver-ish-ly wrapped that sucker around my mortifyingly messy hair. Thank goodness for small miracles, literally.

When I returned home, I removed the twist-tie and pulled my hair back using another of the Conair Ponytailers. Like clockwork, 20 minutes later, it snapped too. Third time was certainly not a charm. And my hair is baby fine, too…not thick at all, so I don’t understand the problem. This product is obviously defective, and I fully intend to contact Conair and express my displeasure.

I did a Google search on “Conair Ponytailers” and it came back empty…which makes me think that this product is no longer on the market. Unfortunately, someone forgot to tell my local CVS. So if you see Conair Ponytailers at your local drugstore or mass market retailer, do like Dionne Warwick and “Walk On By.”

Estelle: American Boy

Just in case this tune hasn’t yet found its way to your neck of the woods, allow me to inject some cool into your life.

Take me on a trip, I'd like to go some day.
Take me to New York, I'd love to see LA.
I really want to come kick it with you.
You'll be my American Boy.

Now I'm a Believer!

I mentioned last week that I was trying out a product called Blo & Go. I said I would give the product a test run and then share my thoughts with you. Well...I'm ready to give you my assessment!

Let me start this review by admitting a certain degree of skepticism on my part about this tool. At first blush, I dismissed it as another product I didn't need, an "As Seen On TV" solution to a problem I didn't know existed.

Then I gave it a try.

Here's a tiny bit of an actual conversation between my mother and myself:

MOM: Your hair looks nice today.
ME: Thanks.
MOM: I like it when you use your flat iron to straighten it out.
ME: Oh, I didn't use my flat iron today....I just blew it dry.
MOM: Really? It's so straight and shiny...it looks like you really took your time with it.
ME: Nope. I dried it using that Blo&Go thing I'm testing for my blog.

That conversation pretty much sums up my experience with the Blo&Go. It's amazing! All my jaded skepticism vanished with the results I got. But let me back up a bit and give you a more in depth review.

The Blo&Go is easy to set up. Sure, I had my husband do it for me, but I watched him do it and it seemed easy enough. The Blo&Go suctions to a flat, non-porous surface (I am using the mirror in my bathroom) and holds itself very securely. You strap in your hairdryer with a bungee cord, tilt and position the neck of the Blo&Go as needed, and you're good to go...and blow! (Sorry.) I was concerned that the Blo&Go wouldn't reach far enough out, since I have to attach it to my mirror and it needs to span my vanity. The neck is plenty long and stretching out over the bathroom counter was no problem.

The Blo&Go is easy to use. You just turn on your dryer, stand underneath, and brush and syle your hair as you dry it. Having both hands free is a huge help. It allowed me to really brush my hair, making it more silky and shiny and giving it a better finished look.

It seems like the Blo&Go cut down on my overall drying time. Because it is suspended over my head, the top of my head and the back/bottom layers dried faster. Plus I don't have to flat iron my hair anymore...unless I really, really want to (and who wants to spend more time and energy on their hair? Not I!).

I can see why the Blo&Go sells out when it's featured on HSN. It does an amazing job. If it can make MY hair look good, there's hope for the rest of you. Yes, this may seem like a weird product, but I'm telling you...it has made a difference for me. Who knew?

Vimi Joshi Speaks to M·A·C PRO

My name is Vimi Joshi and I am the Senior Makeup Artist for M·A·C in the Middle East and India. I have been doing makeup for 11 years now and never in my wildest dreams did I expect it to take me around the world and back to India and Bollywood.

I got into makeup accidentally while in medical school. Hanging out with some friends on music video sets in London I found myself watching the makeup artists; I was fascinated to see how they used color and texture to transform people. It was really inspirational. Virtually overnight, I knew that I had found my calling in life.

I gave up medical school and joined cosmetology school and for the first time was really excited about studying. Straight after graduating I went to work at MTV Europe for a few years; I also worked on numerous fashion shows, TV shows, music videos and did loads of editorials. It was a great experience and I got to work with some of the best talent in the industry.

I was then offered a job in Kuwait to work with the Royal Family and to open up a makeup concept store. I was meant to come out to the Middle East for three months...but eight years later I am still here and absolutely love it. I soon realized that "natural" makeup in the Middle East is heavy foundation, with dark, smoky, heavily lined eyes.

I certainly grew professionally and started doing theatrical "natural" makeup every day. I became the regional training manager for the Middle East for M·A·C and was soon offered a position in Dubai as the M·A·C Senior Makeup Artist for the Middle East and India.

I jumped at the chance. Growing up in England we watched Bollywood movies and now I had the chance to work in that glamorous industry. I have spent most of 2005 in India and it has been fascinating. There is a lot of emphasis on the eyes, which are heavily lined with lots of lashes and of course the lips are always beautifully defined. It is a very glamorous look which has inspired women all over the world. It is quite interesting to see that Arabian makeup is now very influential in terms of the runway. The cat's-eye "wing" look that is the trademark of Arabian women is now all over the fashion editorials and campaigns.

One of the biggest challenges we face as makeup artists here in the Middle East and India is the intense heat and humidity during summer months. Outdoor shooting for a Bollywood movie can be very difficult, as the makeup tends to melt very quickly. Bollywood actresses do have to wear a lot of makeup because film picks up every flaw. They traditionally apply foundation very heavily, but I have learned to minimize the foundation use, by prepping and priming the skin. I have discovered some incredible M·A·C products and techniques that will keep your makeup on much longer during these hot summer months.

The first step and most essential step to ensuring that your makeup stays on longer is the preparation of your skin before you apply any makeup at all. Make sure that your skin is thoroughly clean - Green Gel Cleanser is great for this. Before you apply any moisturizer use Fix + all over the face. Then massage any of our M·A·C moisturizers into your skin. If you have oily skin, then Oil Control Lotion is great as it keeps the skin oil-free for longer. Apply Fix + again to really hydrate the skin. This preparation is key as it really will hold your foundation in place.

To maintain your foundation during warmer climates, you need to ensure that you have some powder in your base. Powders absorb oils and will also make your skin matte. Studio Fix is great for oilier skin because it is a powder plus foundation. Studio Tech is a creamy compact that is great for all skins as it contains powder, water and emollient that will hydrate the skin and also keep it matte. Select SPF 15 Foundation is a liquid foundation for those who prefer liquid textures and can be used on all skin types. I would advise that you lightly powder your face after the foundation. Then, if you need to do some touch-ups during the day, Blot Powder and Blot Film are great to use as they contain no talc and will leave no residue on your face. You should also protect your skin with an SPF factor.

With that said, makeup for film actresses in Bollywood requires a very different technique so that the skin appears natural and flawless under the lights and the eye of the camera. Makeup for film is completely the opposite than makeup for fashion. To prevent the makeup from cracking under the intense heat of the lighting in the studio, it's important to use a layering technique. To prep the skin, do not use any moisturizer at all, wash the face with ice water. Apply Full Coverage Foundation all over the face, paying special attention to the area under the eyes. A yellow undertone or concealer is advisable under the eye area. Blend this into the skin to make it look as flawless as possible. Then scrape some Studio Fix onto a plate and mix it with water, preferably with ice water creating a "wash". Brush the wash all over the face using the 190 Foundation Brush, and again pay extra attention the under eye area. Using a sponge, absorb the excess water. This will then "set" your foundation for the day. It's amazing how it will not move! You will have to re-do the area under eye after every few hours using the same techniques. But, when you view the makeup through the eye of the camera, the actress will appear as if she's wearing no makeup at all - giving the illusion of perfect, even-toned skin.

There are some incredible products for eyes that have great staying power: Fluidlines and Paints are excellent to use as eye shadow. They start off as a cream and will set to powder. I have used them during the rainy season in India and on outdoor shoots and they did not move. We also have a great range of colors. Splashproof Lash Mascara and our Powerpoint Eye Pencils, which are waterproof as well, stand the test of time. In Bollywood movies, there are lots of scenes under waterfalls and lots of crying as well. Obviously, waterproof makeup is vital! This will stop the foundation from melting and streaking. Reapplying the foundation for a Bollywood film can take up to an hour.

M·A·C has some of the most amazing products for lips when it comes to warmer climates. Pro Longwear Lipcolour is highly pigmented and will stay on forever without drying out your lips, if used correctly. You need to make sure that you do not use a lip liner under the product and once you apply it you have to let it set for two minutes before you can add the gloss. Then line the outside of your lips. It works so well. You can also use our Matte Lipsticks, which are great, too.

Working in both fashion and films has been a great experience for me. I've learned so many vital techniques for makeup application and continue to use them everyday in my work. Every new job teaches me something new. Never stop learning!

Monday, July 28, 2008

An Egg-Cellent Contest: PedEgg Giveaway!


If you own a TV and haven’t been living under a rock, you’ve likely seen an infomercial for the PedEgg, an egg-shaped foot file that gives you the perfect pedicure. I’m a sucker for a good infomercial, especially ones hocking beauty-related gadgets. So when I saw the PedEgg in action, I had to get me one so that I could report back to you.

Now that I’ve tried it, I can safely say that the PedEgg goes on a short list of as-seen-on-TV products that deliver on claims (also on that list is the Ronco Rotisserie – just ask Mama Spoiled Pretty).

PedEgg is the essential summer beauty product because it quickly removes calluses and dead skin so you can proudly bare your soles in flip flops and strappy sandals. The egg shape is ergonomically designed to fit perfectly into the palm of your hand for easy and convenient use. And best of all, PedEgg is designed to collect all the skin “shavings” in a convenient storage compartment allowing you to use it anywhere with no mess. Even if your tootsies aren’t tore-up, you’d be amazed at the amount of “shavings” collected in the compartment after you use it. It’s fascinating and oddly satisfying.. I’m so impressed by this product that I thought it would make for a grate giveaway. Grate…get it? Anyway…

This week, three lucky winners will win a PedEgg of their very own.

To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name. The subject line should read "PedEgg Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Sunday, August 3rd. Three winners will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Monday, August 4th, I'll announce the winners' names. Please, only one entry per person; duplicate entries will not increase your chances of winning. Contest is open to U.S. and Canadian residents only.

Good luck!


Breaking News: Lancome Oscillation Available One Day Only, Before Fall Launch!


A limited first-edition supply of Ôscillation will be available ONE DAY ONLY - Thursday, July 31st – at select Lancôme locations. Product will not be available again until the fall, when the national launch of Ôscillation takes place.

Ôscillation is the first vibrating mascara from Lancôme. With just the push of a button, lashes look extraordinarily extended, separated and multiplied. The battery-operated brush provides 7,000 micro-oscillations per minute, wrapping lashes up to 360 degrees. The Ôscillation formula is designed to work specifically with the Ôscillation brush. Creamy, fluid and supple in texture, it results in a glossy look and a smooth application.

The suggested retail price is $34 and will be available on July 31st, while supplies last, at the following:

* Online: Lancôme-usa.com and Sephora.com
* Atlanta (GA): Macy’s at the Lenox Square Mall
* Brea (CA): The Lancôme Boutique at the Brea Mall
* Costa Mesa (CA): Nordstrom at South Coast Plaza
* Chicago (IL): Macy’s on State Street and Bon-Ton at the Yorktown Mall
* Dallas (TX): Dillard’s and the Lancôme Boutique at NorthPark Center
* Houston (TX): Neiman Marcus at the Galleria
* Miami (FL): Macy’s at the Dadeland Mall
* Manhattan (NY): Bergdorf Goodman, Bloomingdale’s 59th Street, Lord & Taylor, Macy’s Herald Square and the Lancôme boutique on Columbus Avenue
* San Francisco (CA): Macy’s Union Square
* Santa Clara (CA): The Lancôme Boutique at the Valley Fair Mall
* Short Hills (NJ): The Lancôme Boutique at the Short Hills Mall

You Glow Girl: ModelCo Body Meringue Bronze Glow


This past weekend, my sis, Lauren, finally caught up to her ID and turned 21. On the agenda for Saturday night was a Sex And The City-inspired partay at a hip lounge, with loud music and libations.

Pre-celebration, Lauren coached me on exactly what to wear (LBD from Arden B), how to style my hair (flipped at the ends, volume at the crown, and side-swept bangs), and my makeup look (bronze smoky eye, a hint of color on the cheeks, and glossy pale lip)…just in case premature Alzheimer’s had set in and I forgot how to work it.

So, just to prove that I’m still stylish and hip in my old age – I decided to up the beauty ante by self-tanning with ModelCo Body Meringue Bronze Glow, an all-in-one instant bronze shimmer and gradual self-tanner with skin-firming benefits. This weightless foam hydrates, protects, and leaves the skin feeling firm while offering a light buildable, natural tan. After smoothing the foam on (absolutely no mess whatsoever), a light instant bronze appeared so I could see exactly where I applied. I waited 10 minutes for it to dry, and over the next few hours, my tan gradually deepened...and left a subtle, sexy shimmer on my skin for added glow.

The best part about this product? Skin is left feeling firm and toned with active ingredient SLIMFIT® LS 9509 - which works to reduce the appearance of the visible orange peel effect associated with cellulite. I can’t remember the last time my gams looked this good! My only pet peeve, however, was the scent...but it was faint and easy to overlook, considering how blinded I was by my gorgeous golden glow. I would have topped off my tan with a spritz of ModelCo’s Airbrush Shimmer Luminizer, but I didn’t want to steal the spotlight from the birthday girl.


ModelCo Body Meringue Bronze Glow is available at Sephora and modelco.com.

Coming Soon: Bobbi Brown Metallics


On counter in August, Bobbi Brown's Metallic Eye Shadow is back by popular demand in 17 shades. Featuring a broad shade range including rich bold colors and pastels, the high-shimmer, high-pigment formula creates a sexy and sophisticated look. Color applies evenly and stays crease-free for all-day wear. Individual shadows can also be popped into Bobbi’s new customizable palettes.


And on counter in September/October, Bobbi presents her new Metallic Lip Color- the newest innovation in shimmer. Featuring high-shine emollients and light-reflective pearls, it will leave lips with a soft creamy feel and medium coverage and will be available in 15 multi-dimensional shades.

Swatches coming soon!