This video is absolutely hysterical, so I had to share. Erika, I think it's time Janey got her own blog.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Janey Needs Her Own Blog, Erika
One of my BFF's (best blogging friends) is the lovely Erika, from Makeup Bag. She has three daughters who are product-obsessed, just like their mama. But her youngest, Janey, takes beauty to a whole nuther level. She might just be the most entertaining 7 year old ever.
This video is absolutely hysterical, so I had to share. Erika, I think it's time Janey got her own blog.
This video is absolutely hysterical, so I had to share. Erika, I think it's time Janey got her own blog.
Dashing Diva Gelife Manicure
Which is why I am currently obsessed with Dashing Diva Gelife, a revolutionary new nail service that gives unbeatable gloss and helps maintain the health of the natural nail underneath. Gelife is a super-thin coat of gel painted, just like nail polish, over the natural nail. The gel is then cured under a UV light after each application, which immediately sets the formula. So once you're done, you're done. None of this sitting under a dryer for 15 minutes/ blowing on your nails just to be safe/ scared to touch anything for an hour after you leave the salon type of nonsense. And get this...it's chip-resistant up to two weeks!
I wish my camera could accurately capture the mirror shine of my nails. The photo above just doesn't do them justice.
Gelife launched with three options: clear, cool pink and warm pink (I chose the cool). The only caveat I have is that the current color options go on very sheer. So when you get any gunk underneath your nail, you can see it and it kinda detracts from the gorgeousness of your nails. But the solution is pretty simple...I've just been using my Sephora Brand Nail Scoop Cleaner a little more often to keep my manicure looking so fresh and so clean clean.
I'm really excited for September, when Gelife will be available in the following shades:
Left to right: Darkest Burgundy, Deep Red, Taupe Brown
Left to right: Beige, Hot Pink, Coral Orange
For Dashing Diva nail spa locations and hours, visit dashingdiva.com.
Gelife price list:
Gelife Natural Manicure - $45
Gelife Natural Pedicure - $60
Gelife French Manicure - $60
Gelife French Tip Extension - $70
My Blowout Is The Bomb Y'all!
Peep my super sleek blowout, courtesy of Emma H at Cutler Salon in NYC. Isn't it amazin'? I'm glowing!I was waltzing around the city that day thinkin' I was too cute. You couldn't tell me nothin'.
Emma tamed my tresses with a T3 hairdryer and flat iron, and polished it off with a little of Redken's Sleek Obedience Anti-Frizz Solid Serum - a pomade that she recommended I invest in.
Another reason to love Emma? She talked me out of cutting my bangs, suggesting that I simply switch my part from the left to the right side. And she was right. I don't know what kind of optical illusion it creates, but my hair looks 10 times more flattering, and it actually makes my face look thinner. And isn't that the ultimate goal?
If I lived in New York, I would definitely be scheduling bi-weekly visits with Emma. In fact, I think I might just make an appointment for September when I return. Can't be looking a hot mess at Fashion Week.
Oh, and did I mention that Emma does Rachael Ray's hair?
Cutler Salon
47 W. 57th Street (between Park & Lexington)
New York, NY 10012
LORAC Gift With Purchase, Plus Free Shipping
10 Things You Didn’t Know About Khloe Kardashian
Have you seen my beauty Q&A with Khloe Kardashian? It’s must-see TV, though my opinion might be a bit biased. The exclusive interview with Khloe Kardashian and her makeup artist, Mario Dedivanovic, features their must-have products, makeup techniques and beauty secrets!If you’ve already seen the interview and are fiending for more Dash dish, consider this a companion piece…
10 Things You Didn’t Know About Khloe Kardashian
1) She believes that being a prankster helps her hone her acting skills.
2) The Keeping Up With The Kardashians episode that makes her cringe is when she participated in an acting class.
3) Khloe’s fashion icons are Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen, Jackie O, Audrey Hepburn, Victoria Bekham and Rihanna. “I love that one day she’s a schoolgirl and the next day she’s a dominatrix,” Khloe says of Rihanna. “I can appreciate that because I have multiple personalities
too.”
4) If she could only wear one designer for the rest of her life, it would be Alexander Wang.
5) “When it comes to my nails, I just always do crazy. I recently went to Africa and all of the kids were totally fascinated by my nails, which were really long with silver glitter tips and rhinestones on my ring fingers in the shape of a K.”
6) Khloe hardly ever wears false lashes because her natural lashes are forever long. “She just doesn’t need them,” Mario told me. I was up close and personal, and I can attest to the fact that Khloe won the genetic lottery when it comes to her lashes. They are ridiculously lush.
7) After seeing Khloe in certain photographs, people swear that Khloe has had her lips done – which isn’t true. It’s just that her natural lip color is the same as her skin…so when her lips are all done up, it makes them really pop.
8) Khloe is contemplating having the inside of her wrist inked with the word "Bunny," written in her mother’s handwriting. Since she was little, Bunny has been her mom’s pet name for her – and the new tattoo would be a compliment to this one she got last year.
9) Khloe says she would never get a name tattooed on her body, with the exception of her family. “Honey, even husbands come and go,” she joked.
10) Since watching the video, my inbox has been inundated with emails asking what lipstick/gloss Khloe was wearing in the video. Here’s the recipe: First, Mario lined her lips with MAC Lip Pencil in Spice. Then he mixed Josie Maran Finger Paints and MAC Lipstick in Myth, and filled in her lips. Finally, he topped it all off with NARS Lip Gloss in Turkish Delight.
Want more Kardashians deets? Be sure to check out my interviews with Kim Kardashian and Mario Dedivanovic!
Make-up Trend: Peachy, Summery Cheeks
Roses are so winter! Your skin looks instantly brighter and livelier with peach blush. Complement a neutral smoky eyes like Asin, by dusting a rich apricot color on cheeks. If your skin is fair, sweep a peach blush over areas the sun would hit (cheeks, nose, forehead and chin) to warm up your face.Rec: Bobbi Brown Apricot Shimmer Brick Compact
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Happy Birthday, Bikini: Venus Razor Giveaway
It’s hard to believe, but this month marks the 60th anniversary of the bikini in America. When the first bikini was launched, it caused an explosion on the fashion scene, and through the years that little piece of fabric has gone through quite an evolution in length, fabrics, colors and cuts. Today, the bikini is a defining force in summer style.When it comes to donning a bikini, confidence is key...and, smooth skin can help. According to a recent survey, almost 75% of women said that they felt more confident after shaving. Research also shows that shaving makes women feel more feminine, polished and beautiful.
So, before slipping on that swimsuit, be sure to get your south of the border in order with Venus Embrace. The first five blade razor for women, Venus Embrace has a ribbon of moisture and hugs every curve for a close shave and dramatically smooth skin.
To help celebrate the bikini’s birthday, Spoiled Pretty is partnering with Venus for a giveaway. One lucky reader will win:
* Venus Embrace and Embrace replacement blades
* Gillette Satin Care Lavender Kiss Shave Gel
* Olay Touch of Sun Quench Plus
* Fedora hat with changeable black ribbon around the brim
* Colorful oversized beach towel
* Mara Hoffman bikini
This giveaway's approximate retail value is $250!
To enter the giveaway, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address. The subject line should read "Bikini Birthday Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Wednesday, August 5. One winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Thursday, August 6th, I'll announce the winner's name. Please, only one entry per person; duplicate entries will not increase your chances of winning. Contest is open to U.S. residents.
Good luck!
Beauty Bloggerati Spotlight
Try the Talika Eye Therapy Patch and give your concealer the day off. Julia from All About The Pretty has the deets.
Listen up, Twilight fans. Amber from Beauty Blogging Junkie has found Cullen Family Crest Bobby Pins!
Jennifer from Beyond Beauty Basics has some tips for 10-minute summer hair.
Suave made hairspray phobic Sarah, from Hair Thursday, into a believer.
Bailey over at Makeover Momma shows you how to polish up on your at-home manicure skills.
There's a British invasion goin' on over at Makeup and Beauty Blog. Check out Karen's review of Illamasqua cosmetics.Makeup Bag's Erika shares her favorite summery scents.
Carla from Product Girl thinks this bathtime treat is the bomb!
Elessa's review of Stila's new Lip Enamel Luxe Gloss and Smudge Pots have me pulling out my Visa card. Visit Pursebuzz and see what I mean.
Check out Talking Makeup to learn how to cop Sienna Miller's red carpet coiff.
What's better than a smoothie in the summertime? The Jet Set Girls found this one from Clinique.
Lisa from These Lips Were Made For Glossin' swears this MAC lip gloss is good to the last drop.
Lancôme Friends & Family
Lancôme boutiques are offering you and your readers an exclusive Friends & Family discount. Enjoy 20% off everything you love at the Lancôme boutiques. This is a great opportunity to stock up on your favorite products or try something new, such as their limited-edition fall collection Declaring Indigo.
Print out the photo above and bring it with you to one of Lancôme's boutiques between August 1st and August 8th, 2009. Go to lancomeboutique.com for a location near you.
This discount is not valid at any other Lancôme locations, counters or lancome-usa.com.
NARS Lip Gloss in Hot Wired
I left Schiap Lipstick on the shelf because it was just a little much for me, but I did end up buying Hot Wired Lip Gloss. I'm very pleased with my purchase. What do you think?
Smokey, Dramatic Birthday Eyes
Products Used:
Benefit F.Y.Eye primer
Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow in Skinny Jeans
MAC Smoke and Diamonds eye shadow
Typographic eye shadow
Carbon eye shadow
Mylar eye shadow
Urban Decay liquid liner in Perversion
MAC Plushlash mascara
Bronzing Powder in Solar Riche
NARS blush in Orgasm
MAC Colour Crafted lipstick
Attack of the Killer Perfume!
This news story is currently making its way around the Interwebs:
FORT WORTH, Texas - At first, fire officials suspected that carbon monoxide or some other toxic fumes had sickened almost 150 people at a Texas bank call center.
It turned out that perfume was to blame.
MedStar ambulance spokeswoman Lara Kohl says 34 people were taken to hospitals, 12 by ambulance, after reporting dizziness and shortness of breath Wednesday at a Bank of America call center in Fort Worth. Medics treated 110 at the scene.
Fort Worth fire Lt. Kent Worley says the incident started with two people complaining about dizziness after a co-worker sprayed perfume. Others reported being sick when an announcement was made that anyone with similar symptoms should exit the building.
Investigators do not know what type of perfume was sprayed.
Ok, so this brings up two thing:- I can't wait to know what perfume caused the problem
- The perfume wearer should have read my tips for appropriate perfume usage...and you should read it too, unless you want to cause this sort of office mayhem!
The Bobbi Brown Website Gets A Facelift
They’ve also made it easier for you to share your favorite products, tips and articles via Facebook, Digg and del.icio.us. To celebrate the launch of our new ratings and reviews feature, for each review you write through August 28th you’ll be entered to win $450 worth of Bobbi makeup.
Bobbi Brown is also currently offering two free samples with any order and free shipping on purchases above $65.
Beauty Product of the Week: Pulse Perfection
What is it? Pulse Perfection Define-a-Lash Mascara is Maybelline's "first vibrating mascara. Transforms your lashes to perfection. - Patent-pending elastomer brush vibrates 7,000 times per stroke
- Provides clump-free definition, intense color, and shine
- Waterproof; also available in washable formula
- Builds lash volume, length, and adds curl
- Buildable formula
- Ideal for All Skin Types
- Contact lens safe
What did you think? Vibrating mascaras have been on the market for about a year now. They started out with the expensive brands like Lancome and now, like most trends, they're making their way down market--good news for all of us in the recession! I've been leery of the vibrating mascara trend because....well....the whole idea sort of scared me. Don't get me wrong: I firmly believe that every girl needs at least one good vibrator in her life, but a vibrating mascara? I was skeptical.
When I saw that Maybelline was one of the first drugstore brands to launch a vibrating mascara, I was curious. It's well known that I am a big fan of Maybelline mascara, so if any drugstore brand could get the high-end trend right, my money was on Maybelline.
I tried this baby out with low expectations. I thought I'd end up with clumps and bits of mascara flying all around the place. I was wrong...on some level.
This product goes on really easily, and the vibrations help make one coat of mascara look like several coats. In no time, my lashes were longer, exquisitely darker, and fuller looking. To hell with wiggling the wand back and forth at the base...the vibrating wand did all the work for me.
On the not-so-positive side, I did notice that I had some clumping with this product. I don't know if this is user error (maybe I have been applying too much?) or a problem with the mascara. If you want to use this product, you should have some skill in applying mascara and using a lash comb, because I promise you that you'll need to comb out a few clumps here and there.
The final verdict? If you've been wanting to try out the vibrating mascara trend but didn't want to fork over $30, try this product. I will give this warning: practice using the wand. The first time you use it, you may need to use a good lash comb to separate your lashes a bit. Overall, vibrating mascaras are an interesting novelty, but I am not entirely sold. There are so many good mascaras on the market that are more worthy of your money than this one, but it has been fun trying out the vibrating wand technology.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Revlon Colorstay Mineral Mousse Makeup: Buy Right Now!
At the risk of sounding snobbish, I haven't worn drugstore foundation since college. And even then, it looked a hot mess. But I was broke and I didn't have any other options.Since then, I've been making my foundation purchases at Sephora and the department store beauty counters because my color is difficult to match and it's near impossible for me to buy without trying. And even if I did find a close color match, the formulation was either too dry, too greasy, too sheer or too opaque for my persnickety skin.
But I've changed my tune since I attended a Revlon event last week in New York City. We bloggers went home with a bunch of Revlon's newest goodies...and my favorite, by far, is their Colorstay Mineral Mousse Makeup. Since I tried it, it has become my go-to foundation. Can you believe? For less than $14, you can purchase one of the best foundations I've tried all year.
Colorstay Mineral Mousse Makeup has a unique air-whipped texture that dries to a soft matte finish...perfect for those with oily and combination skin. It wears like a dream all day, averting the mid-day greasies. The coverage is sheer enough to let your skin breathe, but not so heavy that it looks like a mask. I apply it with the BeautyBlender sponge to ensure a seamless finish. And I swear that my acne has taken a little time out since I started using it.
Do yourself a favor and go buy Revlon's Colorstay Mineral Mousse Makeup right now.
Kim Kardashian: Isn't She Pretty In Pink?
For the complete list of products Troy Jensen used to achieve these looks, visit his blog.
For more of Kim Kardashian's beauty and makeup tips, click here.
Cosmopolitan.com Gets A Makeover
Pixie Eyes
Time for a green look (again :)! This was done almost entirely with the Zoeva palette, using different shades of green, chartreuse and yellow. I did the lid in dark green, then went upwards in a degradé up to the browbone, and added a little bit of chartreuse directly below my brow. The colour on the lower lid is drawn out further than usual. To paint the little dots, I mixed some water with Pure Luxe loose eyeshadow in Forest (dark shimmery green) and painted them with a small, pointy brush. I did them freehandedly, so please excuse their little imperfections!
Product List
MAC Bare Canvas, Zoeva 88 Mattes palette, Pure Luxe Forest (wet) for the dots, Manhattan JT, Maybelline Expression kohl in black, MAC #2 lashes, CG Lash Blast
Product List
MAC Bare Canvas, Zoeva 88 Mattes palette, Pure Luxe Forest (wet) for the dots, Manhattan JT, Maybelline Expression kohl in black, MAC #2 lashes, CG Lash Blast
Two Twilight-Inspired Beauty Lines To Launch This Fall
Twilight Beauty, a new cosmetics brand themed after the series of films, will launch two lines debuting this Fall: Luna Twilight and Volturi Twilight. The two lines will be available in conjunction with the release of the second film, The Twilight Saga: New Moon, which arrives in theaters on November 20, 2009.Esmy Mancia and Kimberly Clark of All About Beauty, the product development team behind numerous bestselling lines, developed the cosmetic products for Twilight Beauty, together with Cristina Bartolucci, the founder and Creative Director of DuWop Cosmetics.
“We have worked tirelessly to create innovative cosmetics of high quality to serve as the backbone for both lines,” explains Clark. “Twilight Beauty has coupled these products of note with edgy, sophisticated packaging that is undeniably striking.”
“With over 70 products, Twilight Beauty provides a unique and exceptional makeup experience that can be enjoyed by everyone from Twilight enthusiasts to women looking to highlight their own radiance,” adds Bartolucci.
Luna Twilight reflects the mood and spirit of the saga’s iconic female characters, presenting a collection that creates a harmonious blend between soft, natural beauty and stunning, fierce splendor. Notable products from the Luna Twilight line include First Light Body and Face Glow for radiant illumination and Gleam Metallic Mascara for captivating lashes.
Volturi Twilight offers entry into Twilight’s exclusive coven through use of the Volturi family crest as the brand’s logo. The line features Foreshadow Primer, an ultra-sheer eye base that provides the ultimate prep for a smoother, crease-proof eye shadow application that is coupled with loose glitter dust, called Labrynth Shadows. The highly pigmented loose powder shadows and the lid primer are housed in stackable pots, providing the ability to mix and match the colors to create personal, one-of-a-kind eye shadow favorites.
Luna Twilight will be available September 15, 2009 at Dillard’s and Nordstrom. Volturi Twilight will be available September 15, 2009 through specialty retailers. Both lines will be sold at TwilightBeauty.com, the exclusive website for both brands.
Guest Blogger Review: Olay Regenerist 14 Day Skin Intervention
And now for something completely different here on Kiss and Make-up, my first ever Guest Blogger review of a product.Let's meet our guest blogger, shall we? Her name is Michelle and she's a Kiss and Make-up reader.
Michelle is 32 years old and peacefully lives in Poway, California with her 2 cats (Aoife and Fionn) and her horse Whisper (affectionately known as: Mu). Being a full time student and working full time results in having to come up with amusing and cheap ways to beautify herself. Usually combing through drugstores from Mitzuwa, Walmart, Target, CVS, Walgreens, Sally Beauty and RiteAid. Testing new products on herself and seeing what happens. This has caused varied results between surprisingly chipper to completely unamused. No animals, except Michelle, have been tested on while using these products.
Welcome, Michelle! And now, on to the product review:
What is it? Olay Regenerist 14 Day Skin Intervention. Here is how Olay markets this product: Help reclaim the lifted look of your youth in just 14 days. 14 individual doses for an intensive intervention to your normal skincare routine. Includes 7 tubes of each phase plus 1 mask.
Looking reclaim the lifted look of your youth? Some women resort to drastic procedures like a face lift, but you don't have to go to a doctor to get a significantly lifted look. It's time for an intervention with New Olay Regenerist 14 Day Skin Intervention. While it won't give you the same results as a surgical face lift, you will experience a lifted look in just 14 days.
This concentrated formula with peptide-B3 complex penetrates and hydrates to significantly firm and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. In just 14 days you will experience a stronger skin structure as the intensely hydrating system improves skin's moisture barrier.
Renew your lifted look throughout the year with an intensive intervention every three months.
Phase 1
Days 1-7 of this intervention are specially formulated to ignite the cellular regeneration within skin's surface, infusing your skin with repairing moisture and an Olay peptide - B3 complex.
Phase 2
Days 8 -14 contain a high concentration of an Olay peptide - B3 complex. Wrinkles are filled with polishing micro-powders and hydrating moisture improves skin's structure as you experience a lifted look to your skin.
Price: $ 26.99
What did you think? I felt slimy.It was utterly gross. Like I had this synthetic oily spill on my face 12 hours after I washed it off. I did notice the skin around my eyes appeared to be plumper but there was no other evidence of firmer skin. I was chugging water like mad in 100 degree weather and I did get a shock of plumpness. But I don't think it was result of this product but the result of water weight from obsessive water drinking.
There was also a mask included. Basically after your done, use the mask to wrap everything up. It was white and brawny paper towel like. It had 2 slits for eyes, 1 for nose and mouth. The instructions said to put it on and lay down for 15 minutes and relax. I probably spent that 15 minutes alone try to adhere that thing to my face. I think they only had one type of nose structure in mind because, not that I have schnoz like Barbara Streisand, but I had to 'alter' the mask by separating nose piece in order to get the mask to lay flat on my skin. Once on I looked like Leonardo DiCaprio from 'The man in the iron mask' and I sat patiently for another 15 minutes while watching the TV. The instructions said no need to wash product off, to let the remaining product soak into skin. Skin was not fresh, tight or pink. It was gooped down and oily. When I scrubbed the remaining product off with a facial scrub, I had noticed a softer smoother side to my skin.But you really had to scrub to see what the product was doing underneath. I would recommend that if you really want to try this product and have skin that is under the age of 35 go every other night, not ever night to decrease insane product overload.
The final verdict? Save your money! I was not impressed. I saw little improvement. The skin around my eyes appeared tighter, not so crepe. But I still see some discoloration on my cheeks and jawline and pore size was still obvious. Actually my pores appeared larger which as the result of the product overload. Other than slight blemishes and greasy skin I was concerned by the packaging. You obviously could not over dose on the product by the individual tubes Olay provided but I couldn't help but wonder about the waste that was piling up form using individual tubes of serum. Couldn't they just give you two tubes of product good for 7 days each and tell you how much to pump out? I did not find the packaging very eco friendly.Then they had this large plastic tray to hold the tubes in.I can see how it is a nice display but this huge piece of plastic will most likely end up in a landfill if the user doesn't bother to recycle. I would say that if you are spending $26.99 I would bet half of it was based off of packaging.
Olay Regenerisit 14 day skin recovery grade: D
Note from Lydia:
I tried this product out when it first appeared on the market, and I liked it. It made my skin feel smooth, soft, and "lifted". I did notice that the amount of product seemed generous, but I just made sure to put the excess on my neck and chest. Click here for my 2008 review of the product. The mask must be very new...I've used this several times in the past and there was no mask included.
Another note from Lydia:
If YOU are interested in sending me your thoughts about a beauty product and acting as a Guest Blogger, please send me an email. Or if you follow me on Twitter, DM me!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
The Fake MAC Eyeshadow
One of my favorite places to shop and find great bargain is the Fashion District in Downtown Los Angeles. On the other hand, I really hate it when I find sellers who lies and tricks the consumers. I found a man who was selling fake MAC makeup. He claimed they were real but the packaging is just different and theres no MAC logo. He had pigments, brushes, eye shadows, blushes on palettes and ect. After playing with the samples, I looked at him straight in his eyes and said "Dude, this is freakin' fake!" The man tried to convince me that they were real ugh! Hes a fool, I tell you!!
I know hes just trying to make a living but he shouldnt lie to people...you know what I mean? Anyway, to make the story short. I kept aruguing with him and in the end he gave me a free sample to take home lol. I thought it was funny.
Obviously the left side is the fake one
They are the same in size. The fake Mac has a black and shiny packaging
It also opens on the bottom. There was a tiny sponge tip applicator inside but i threw it away. It has a mirror too.
I also noticed that there are a lot of these in the internet so be careful ladies. Don't be fooled.
By the way, the real Mac eye shadow is Shroom. Its a pretty high light color ^_^
Physicians Formula Bronze Booster Giveaway
Three winners will receive the Bronze Booster collection - three bronzer products formulated with technology to give skin an enhanced natural-looking tan glow that goes the distance:Bronze Booster Glow-Boosting Pressed Powder, $14.95
Provides an instant and lasting tan glow. The lightweight and ultra-blendable pressed bronzer glides on smoothly for an instant, even tan glow that builds easily to your desired level of bronze. Bronzing micropearls deliver a flawless, radiant finish. Available in three shades (Fair to Light, Light to Medium, Medium to Dark).
Bronze Booster Glow-Boosting Loose Bronzing Veil, $14.95
The triple action tan-boosting blend in this high-performance bronzing veil ensures results that are instant, long lasting and streak-free. Available in three shades (Fair to Light, Light to Medium, Medium to Dark).
Bronze Booster Self-Tanning Bronzing Veil, $14.95
This versatile bronzer can be used alone or on tip of foundation. Available in three shades (Fair to Light, Light to Medium, Medium to Dark).
All Physicians Formula products are available at drug and mass-market stores.
To enter the giveaway, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address. The subject line should read 'Bronze Booster Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Tuesday, August 4. Three winners will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Wednesday, August 5th, 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.
Good luck!
Follow Zoya on Twitter, Get Free Nail Polish!
Offer valid in Continental U.S. only. Offer is not valid in conjunction with other promotions, discounts or offers. No purchase necessary.
Make-up Trend: Wispy Lashes
You don't need falsies to get ladylike lashes like Kareena Kapoor's. Use a lash tint instead of mascara, which can often lead to clumps and clusters. Apply Tarte 4 Day Stay Lash Stain, which coats the lashes in a long-lasting pigment that keeps them soft and separated.
Summer Sizzle
I live in the beautiful, normally comfortable climate of the Pacific Northwest. We are known for rain and moderate weather conditions, unlike other places I have lived (growing up near Baltimore, I fully understand the dread that comes when Marty Bass says it's going to be hazy, hot, and humid). I've lived out here for 10 years now, and in that time I have become a Weather Wimp. I hate snow and detest heat. I like the sky overcast and the highs in the mid-50s, thank you very much.Right now, however, the poor Pacific Northwest is in the middle of a kick-ass heat wave. For the next several days, it's going to be in the upper 90s. That wouldn't be too awful for me, a Baltimore girl, if air conditioning were the norm. It's not. And I'm dying.
Apart from feeling hot, tired, and a little bitchier than normal, I'm also dealing with makeup that wants to melt right off my face and frizzy-ass hair thanks to the damned humidity. If you live in a hot climate, you know what I'm going through.
So...to help us all get through the evil heat, here are some top tips for keeping your makeup looking cool during the hot, hot summers:
- Go easy on the products. In the heat, you sweat. When you cake on the makeup AND sweat, you're going to end up clogging your pores which will, of course, lead to breakouts. Sexy. So when it comes to dolling yourself up, stick to the essentials and forgo the extras. The more you put on, the more will just end up dripping off, after all!
- Try a primer. Foundation primers smooth out your skin's surface and will help your foundation last a little longer. Some primers can also help cut down your shine factor, giving you a more velvety, matte appearance. Eye primers will make your eye shadows last longer and will help you avoid dreaded creasing.
- Whenever you can, go waterproof. Waterproof mascaras and eyeliners won't smudge throughout the stinky hot days of summer like their normal counterparts. Yes, you'll need to use a little more elbow grease when you take the stuff off at the end of the day, but really...it's a small price to pay to not end up with raccoon eyes. Unless, of course, rabid raccoon is the look you're going for.
- Ditch the heavy lipsticks and opt instead for a gloss. Better yet, make it a gloss with a little SPF in it. I would also advise against a long-wearing product since they tend to dry your lips out and make your mouth feel icky. Try a gloss that has mint in it for a nice burst of refreshing flavor.
- Knock our your shine. If you're like me, your face is going to be glistening at the end of a hot day, and not in a goods way. You can help control shine with blotting papers, by using foundation primers, touching up with pressed powder, and by using oil control face washes.
- Don't forget the two essentials: SPF and hydration. In the blazing sun, you need to keep your skin safe. Whenever you can, try to sneak in some SPF with your moisturizer, foundation, etc. And don't forget to drink plenty of water throughout the day. I know, I know...I'm nagging like your mother. Good. She's right.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Keeping Up With Khloe Kardashian: Exclusive Beauty Q&A
On Sunday, the fates smiled on me when our paths crossed in New York City. And thanks to her magician of a makeup artist, Mario Dedivanovic, I scored an interview with this dashing diva. I hope you enjoy this exclusive Q&A with Khloe as much as we enjoyed filming it.
Products featured in these videos include:
Diorskin Nude Natural Glow Hydrating Makeup
Lancome Hypnose Mascara
MAC Lip Pencil in Spice
La Mer Moisturizing Lotion
Child Fragrance by Apothia Beauty
The Celestial Powder in Candlelight by Kevyn Aucoin
Click here for 10 things you don't know about Khloe Kardashian.
Many thanks to Khloe Kardashian and Mario Dedivanovic for generously sharing their time and tips. Mwah!
If you loved this Q&A, my interviews with Kim Kardashian and Mario Dedivanovic are must reads!
Make-up Trend: Long-Lasting Red Lips
Priyanka Chopra rocked a smoldering, sexy red pout in the pages of Harper's Bazaar without a hint of smudging, bleeding or fading. To give your lips a lasting flash of red, fill them in entirely with MAC Lip Pencil in Cherry, which is waxier than lipstick and less likely to slide off the lips. Then top it with M.A.C Pro Longwear Lipcolor in Lasting Lust to finish.
Lip Venom V Giveaway
I must say: being on vacation is perfection. Getting back to a normal life after vacation? Yeah, that's not so hot. My day job has been slow since it's summer, and because of this slower pace, I feel like I'm not getting much done. Oh well.Anyway, after a break, I am now back and am trying to get back into blogging. Thanks so much to all of you for staying with me over these quieter weeks. To kick off my return to the blog, I am having a giveaway!
I mentioned last month that DuWop is launching a new lip plumping product as a tie-in with the Twilight films. Their new product, Lip Venom V, is their normal Lip Venom mixed with a little red coloring. But unlike Lip Venom, this Lip Venom V is not a gloss. It is a "shimmering crimson lip stain suspended in a venom-laced liquid lip conditioner."
I purchased two vials of this stuff: one for me to try out, one to give away. All you need to do to get a vial is leave me a comment here on this post. You can tell me why you want to try this product, what you're doing this summer, what you want to see more of on my blog, or one of your favorite recipes. I don't care what you say--just be sure to leave a comment that includes a way to get in touch with you, and you'll be entered. Piece of cake! I'll announce the winner on August 3rd.
And as for a review of the product: I'll get one out after the contest. Until then, go ahead and enter. Good luck!
Sunday, July 26, 2009
This Week's Ideeli Sales
Heartloom Sale
Starts Monday, July 27
Prices start at $19 (up to 70% off )
Donald J Pliner Sale
Starts Monday, July 27
Prices start at $89 (up to 64% off)
Lacoste Home Sale
Starts Tuesday, July 28
Prices start at $14 (up to 74% off)
Mac & Jac Sale
Starts Wednesday, July 29
Prices start at $20 (up to 69% off)
Sweet Pea Sale
Starts Thursday, July 30
Prices start at $20 (up to 70% off)
Nicole Miller Sale
Starts Friday, July 31
Prices start at $74 (up to 70% off)
Denim of Virtue Sale
Sale date TBD
Prices start at $39 (up to 71% off)
Lacoste Sale
Sale date TBD
Prices start at $34 (up to 60% off)
Ideeli membership is free...click here for an invite, courtesy of Spoiled Pretty.
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