MakeupCrazie

Face Forward Fridays: Leona Lewis

2012-01-27T11:48:00.001-05:00

This weeks face forward friday picture is of Leona Lewis. I don't think she gets as much attention here in the U.S. as she should. She's an amazing singer and I love her soft ballads. I think that she is absolutely beautiful...and yes, I'm including the nose (she gets a lot of negative comments regarding her nose). I love the smoked out bronze/black eye and how it's finished off with a nude very light pink lip. It's dark and sultry and a look I will definitely try to recreate on myself. I will be sure to post a FOTD when I do.
til next time...
~smooches

SEPHORA Cream Liner Review

2012-01-25T23:11:00.000-05:00

Hello All,

A few weeks ago, I happened to stop in Sephora because I wanted to restock on some things that I use often... you know, eye primer and things of that nature. Well, I decided to buy two cream liners (Sephora brand) because the price wasn't that bad...$10.
I purchased the shades "must have" (black) and "Bewitch me" (purple). I found it to be really creamy and the swatches that I put on my arm at the store wouldn't come off for nothing.

Well, today I tried "must have" for the second time and I honestly have to say that I don't like it. I don't know how it has gotten great reviews on the Sephora website . It claims to be waterproof but today i had to reapply on my bottom water line because it had already started to come off. Ok, so I reapplied before I left and lets fast forward four hours later...it was practically all gone on my bottom waterline. To be fair, I will say that the cream liner that I place below the bottom waterline (on lashes and under eye) didn't budge. I washed my face twice and it's still faintly there...like still there...even now. And you know that swatch in the picture above...it's still stained on my arm a day later. So, I don't know why it doesn't stay on my waterline.

Would I buy it again...probably not. I'll spend a bit more and buy MAC's fluideline because I know it's not going to budge.

I wish that I could have taken a picture of my eye before and after my day but my camera is not acting right (I used my sisters camera for above photos when she stopped over yesterday)...hopefully I'll be able to post pictures soon.
~til next time...
Smooches

Makeup for the Freckled Faced

2012-01-16T18:33:00.000-05:00

I am a freckled faced girl and I've always hated how prominent my freckles were because I felt as though my face looked like a chaotic mess (spots everywhere). No matter what I used on my face, I never got the flawless look I desired. For many years I would try my best to cover them up but that only it made my skin look overly made up and worse than it really was . I don't just have a sprinkle around my nose and cheeks but every single inch of my face houses a little or big brown spot. As I got older and more accepting of myself, I began to just leave them and let them be front and center as genetics intended. But I still needed to find ways in which to hide my blemishes and red under eye circles. I also needed to find eye shadows, blushes and even lipsticks that complimented these vibrant spots.

Definition from Wikipedia: Freckles are clusters of concentrated melanin which are most often visible on people with a fair complexion. Freckles can be found on anyone no matter their genetic background; however, having freckles is genetic and is related to the presence of the dominant melanocortin-1 receptor MC1R variant. The formation of freckles is triggered by exposure to sunlight. The exposure to UV-B radiation activates melanocytes to increase melanin production, which can cause freckles to become darker.

And I've found a blog that I found interesting because there were an array of people just like me.... "Black Chicks with freckles" BLOG.

What I have learned:

Peachy tones will complement your freckles. Avoid blush or bronzer that adds shimmer to skin. Instead opt for bronzer or blush that leaves a sun-kissed glow. Use shades that complement rather then contrasting ones.
A light weight, sheer foundation or tinted moisturizer will lighten the darker freckles while enhancing you skin tone and complexion.
Bring out your eye color by avoiding eye makeup colors that blend with your freckles, so brown eye makeup is your best option.
In terms of eye shadows choose ones that would perfectly bring out your eye color. This might not require such pro skills, therefore you can rely on the warm/cold tone principles. Keep away of exclusive brown tones as these would only blend into your face. Instead smokey, cat as well as statement eye make up trends would serve as the best remedy to jazz up your look. Grey, black and also peachy rather then pinkish hues would make you chic on the spot. Crown the make up with mascara and preferably black to lengthen and enrich your lashes.

So, that's about it...
let me know if you have tips out there for the freckled face...I'd love to hear it.
til next time...
~smooches

My Makeup Look Book

2011-12-07T09:00:00.001-05:00

Hi All...
I just wanted to share my Makeup Look Book. It's a compilation of pictures that I've collected from magazines. I use the pictures that I cut out from various magazine to stay inspired and to be a constant reminder of how much I love this form of art.
Here's a peek inside my book:

Well, I was just sharing an idea that someone else might find beneficial as well.
Til next time...
~smooches

COVERGIRL Queen Collection Lippies

2011-12-05T00:38:00.001-05:00

Hello All!

I want to express my LOVE for COVERGIRL Queen collection lippies!

I don't know where I was when these popped on the scene but I'm glad I finally got a clue...better late then never, right?

Here's how COVERGIRL explains this collection: COVERGIRL Queen Collection Lipcolor provides as much rich, true color as the leading department store lipstick. Our silk moisturizing formula helps maintain moisture levels so lips feel smooth and look gorgeous. The more you wear it, the more gorgeous your lips become!

Many times I'll buy a lipstick and as soon as I put it on my lips, I hate it. Because my lips are pigmented most times lipsticks will translate different when I put them on. So one day I decided to buy these at my local drugstore only because they were on sale and I was absolutely in love. Yup...not like but LOVE!

They have almost a vanilla coconut smell and I'm not really big on vanilla and even coconut but it's not unbearable. The consistency is really creamy and moisturizing to the lip. I found that the shades I purchased were true to color when on and I found that they were flattering to my completion.

Here's the lippies I've purchased:


PENELOPE PINK

KISS

HEAVENLY

I didn't feel the need to take pictures of the lipsticks on my lips because it will look different on everyones lip depending on lip pigmentation, so I just took a pic of it on my wrist. This will give an idea of how opaque or sheer the shades are...

outside-no flash

inside

Well, that's about it...
I definitely will be buying more and I'm not going to even wait until they go on sale again...lol

-till next time...

~smooches

Makeup Tips n Tricks: Milk of Magnesia for Oily Skin

2011-09-06T09:00:00.002-04:00

Using Milk of Magnesia is a great way to control oily skin amongst other things! Milk of Magnesia is commonly used as a laxative and antacid. Scientifically speaking...Milk of Magnesia, also know as magnesium hydroxide is a suspension of hydrated magnesium carbonate in water. It is fairly cheap at local drugstores and comes in liquid as well as in pills.

Milk of Magnesia (MOM) is a great cleanser and toner. It can be used to help minimize pore size and to eliminate blackhe. Using it as a base under you makeup can help combat very oily skin.ads! It is so frustrating when you apply such beautiful makeup only for it to slide off due to oily skin.

STEPS:

Be sure to shake before use.

Wash face clean and pat dry gently
Immediately after washing, dab a cotton ball (or foundation brush) in a the Milk of Magnesia and apply a thin layer all over the face and nose
When Milk of Magnesia dries on face, apply your make up directly over it without washing the milk off.

OPTION: You can let dry and just wash off instead of wearing it under make up (use it as a facial mask).

If you want to store it where you store your makeup, try putting it in a little squeeze bottle...it will save space and hopefully prevent people from asking why you use poop medicine on your face...lol.

Please note that it is best when just using it as a cleanser, it should be used only once or twice a week. Milk of Magnesia may make the skin too tight and dry, so if you do not have oily skin, I wouldn't recommend using. White patches can appeared if used in large amounts and only a thing layer should be applied.

Angled Eyeliner Brushes Review and Comparison

2011-09-05T09:00:00.000-04:00

So, I was wandering through Target getting what was on my list (cleaning supplies, toilet tissue...etc) and of course I had to go to the cosmetic section just because. I picked up a Sonia Kashuk bent eyeliner brush because I don't own an angled eyeliner brush (I know...how stupid am I) and I heard from many makeup enthusiasts that it's a must have. So with it being a little over $5.00...why not. When I turned the corner I noticed Elf brand angled (same thing like the Sonia brush) eyeliner brushes hanging on their hook... $3.00! Which one should I buy?! So I bought both and below is my 2 cents when comparing the two...

The Sonia Kashuk Bent Eyeliner has a thin handle and has a slight angled ferruele. I found that the bristles doesn't go to a nice point but stops almost bluntly. The bristles aren't dense and they can bend fairly easy. I don't really like that the bristles don't form into a point because I had to shape it into a point while picking up gel eyeliner.

With the ELF liner, I found that there were less bristles then the Sonia Kashuk brush. It doesnt show that way in the picture but trust me...there's a lot less bristles on the brush and the bristles make a point at the end. Also, I found the the bristles on this brush a bit more dense...not a lot more just a bit. This I liked because I was able to get a thinner eyeliner line on my eyelids.

Using the ELF angled brush:

Using the Sonia Kashuk brush:

So...all in all, I liked the ELF angled brush better. When it comes to applying gel eyeliner I like to have control in how thick or thin I want my line to be. The Sonia's brush bristles couldn't give a really thin line because of they didnt have a pointed tip. So the cheaper brush won! Yayy! for saving money! Well, I didn't save money because I purchased both but I hope someone out there will read this and save money because of my 2 cents...

til next time...
~smooches

Well

Face Forward Fridays: Jessie J

2011-09-02T09:00:00.003-04:00

This friday I've picked Jesse J as the FFF's. I LOVE her usually winged eyeliner but this sultry dark look is amazing! Take note of the gold accent on her black lips...fierce! And I soooo want a top like that...not sure where I'd wear it but I still want it...lol. Her blunt bang and jet black hair just adds to the cleanliness of this look.

Here's a more tone down look that she's worn this year. It's a gorgeous 40s timeless look with waves in her hair and beautiful glowing skin. I love how different makeup applications can transform a face in so many different directions.


UK's Glamour Women of the Year Awards

Jessie J- "Price Tag ft. B.o.B."

til next time...

~Kiss Kiss

Clearasil Rapid Acne Scrub Review

2011-09-01T09:00:00.001-04:00

Clearasil Ultra Rapid Action Acne Scrub

Price paid: $8.00

PROS:

Does what it says and visibly reduces red marks and drys up bumps and pimples
Face is less oily
Scrubbing beads works great at exfoliating (really great)

CONS:

Face becomes a bit dry...not a bit really dry (my skin has started to peel)
Wondering if it's actually starting to not work anymore because random bumps has returned

Overall:
I like the scrubbing beads a lot because it keeps my skin soft and smooth in between my sugar and lemon scrubs. A lot of other facial scrubs I've used were worthless when it came to the scrubbing part. One of the things that deter me from using this product is that is doesn't sud up with bubbles. It's hard for me to believe that my oily, makeup filled dirty face is being cleaned by something that rubs on like lotion.

We'll that's it for now...
~smooches

Face Forward Fridays: Salma Hyek

2011-05-13T10:15:00.001-04:00

"People often say that 'beauty is in the eye of the beholder,' and I say that the most liberating thing about beauty is realizing that you are the beholder. This empowers us to find beauty in places where others have not dared to look, including inside ourselves."

~Salma Hyek

I like this fun dramatic look on Salma Hyek but I don't know who would would do their makeup like this and just lay around in lingerie...but who am I to judge.

Comment, let me know what you think?

til next time,

~smooches

Rub-ah-Dub in the Tub photo shoot

2011-05-11T15:01:00.001-04:00

Hello All!

I haven't been posting for a while and I think that I am lacking a bit of motivation to do a lot of things. Although my writing has suffered, makeup application has not. I went to New York (home) for a bit and when I returned back to Florida, I had a photo shoot that was scheduled. This photo shoot was a unique one where the model was going to shoot in a tub and most if not all of her face was to be submerged in water.

The shoot was held at the photographer's home and I did three different looks throughout the entire shoot. I first started with airbrushing foundation using Temptu's S/B airbrush foundation to even out her skin tone to provide a flawless complexion. It was my first time using Temptu's S/B foundation which is silicone based and I found it to be "ok". Don't get me wrong...it held up absolutely wonderful in all the water and didn't run or smear even if I tried but I personally prefer OCC's water based foundation.

For the first look the photographer wanted a very natural, no makeup look so I went with a fresh face look adding very neutral shadows and an understated blush. I am a hugh fan of dramatic looks so it was a bit hard to hold back. The second look was a bit more of a look where I darkened the crease with brow shadow shades, left the blush as it was and added a bright pink OCC lip tar (Pageant).

The last look was my absolute favorite and the most dramatic. I darkened and smoked out her entire lid and crease area with a black eyeshadow while using a silver metallic eyeshadow on the inner corners of her eyes and on the inner portion of her bottom eye water line. I added more of the blush I first applied as well as a bit of bronzer under the blush. I added long dramatic eyelashes and finished off the look with OCC's lip tar in "Reverb" which was an orange red shade. I enjoyed this photo shoot because it was all done in a bathroom while the model was summered in water and I found it creative and entertaining to say the least. I left the shoot exhausted but satisfied with what I've done...see some of the photos for yourself (the second and third look):

Well, thats about it for now :o)

til next time...

~smooches

Face Forward Fridays: Rhianna(2)

2011-05-06T10:15:00.002-04:00

"People think, because we’re young, we aren’t complex, but that’s not true. We deal with life and love and broken hearts in the same way a woman a few years older might."

-Rhianna

I rather this look on Rhianna instead of the red bozo the clown red hair...it was interesting at first but now it just has to go...for real. I like the subtle neutral eye lid with dark eyeliner defining the entire eye and pop of bubble gum pink on the lips. I think this would be a great look to rock when going out for a fun night.

Comment, tell me what you think?

Til next time,

~smooches

Face Forward Fridays: Katy Perry

2011-04-29T10:15:00.001-04:00

"I wanna to hit you just to see if you cry."

-Katy Perry

I love this look on Katy Perry and I think it look stunning with her eye color. It's that classic look that Dita Von Teese rocks; defined eyebrows, black winged eyeliner, full lashes and a bold red lip which never gets old. Gosh, I want one of those hats or hair accessory with the black mesh...

Face Forward Fridays: Jennifer Hudson

2011-04-22T10:15:00.000-04:00

"I just tried to live in the moment and be natural, as if there were no cameras there. Maybe it`s because I felt like singing and acting are related. When you`re singing you have to sell it. You act out that song; you have to know the meaning and purpose of it. I let that guide me."

- Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer must be thanking her lucky stars that she didn't win American Idol and wasn't bogged down by all the red tape and contracts that would have entailed because I doubt she would have gotten so famous. I just love this look on her and how the lavender on her eyelids corresponds with her soft lavender lips and how the contouring gives such definitions/shape to her face.

Comment, let me know what you think?

til next time...

~smooches :o)

Photo shoot: Golden Leopard

2011-04-21T07:59:00.002-04:00

Hi All!
I'm back with photos of another photo shoot I did recently. The photographer had a vision of how she wanted the client to look so I did as I was told (my creativity was a bit limited). She wanted not so much of a dramatic eye but dramatic lips. I decided to go with a golden brown shimmery shadow and smoked out the outer lid with black. This was a very simple look but the red lips made a statement. The shoot was at a local hospital's parking garage and I actually enjoyed being a part of it because the photographer did the shot pretty quickly, wrapping up as soon as she got what she wanted to achieve.

[Click to enlarge photo]

Tell me what you think?
Critiquing is the best way for me to improve so I value any comments made.

Well, that's about it for now...
til next time,
~smooches :o)

Eye Kandy and Liquid Sugar

2011-04-20T01:35:00.004-04:00

Hello All!

Has anyone ever heard of this? While at the IMATS, I kept seeing women walking around with wonderful bright and dramatic glitter eyeliner type thingies on their lids. I searched the trade show looking for eyeliners but couldn't find anything that remotely looked like what I saw. While standing at the elevator waiting to go downstairs and leave...I look over and there they were! They weren't liners in a tube after all but Eye Kandy glitters, something in which I never seen before. The display had tons of little jars of colorful and vibrant glitters. I stood in amazement (dramatic...I know, lol) watching the representative for the company apply the glitters to a lady's eyelid and I had to have them...so I am here to share what I purchased.

I purchased the Eye Candy kit that comes with 10 glitter jars, liquid sugar adhesive and a small eyeliner brush).

Here's how the website describes it:

Eye Kandy Sprinkles are a high-end, pure

cosmetic glitter that is completely safe for the

eyes and is available in forty-eight

brilliant colors.

Finally, a product that does exactly what it says

it will! Say good-bye forever to pat-on, gels,

flaky and messy eye glitters!

Unlike craft glitters, which may contain glass and can cause severe damage to the eye and irritate the skin, our glitter is specifically designed for cosmetic purposes. Our Sprinkles colors are made from an acrylic polymer (plastic) and do not contain metals or glass. This makes them completely safe for sensitive skin and contact lenses. The glitter will not scratch or harm the eye, nor will it irritate the skin.

Our Liquid Sugar adhesive is water based and, therefore, also completely safe for sensitive skin and contact lenses. If the base seeps into the eye, you may feel a slight stinging, but it will not cause any damage. A cotton swab or tissue should be sufficient to dab your eye and relieve the sting. Use this method to remove glitter from your eye, as well. It is a tidier and effective alternative to flushing with water.

Our products are produced and manufactured in the USA. None of our products are tested on animals.

We offer two cuts of glitter in our solid liners.

Superfine - The first, and by far our most popular due to the ease of applying, is our SF. The grain size of this glitter is our smallest, ranging in size from a .004 x .004 to a .006 x .006. This size of glitter does not offer as much sparkle, so tends to be less dramatic, but is still brilliant and stunning to wear. It is a great cut for a day or ‘office’ look and works beautifully as an all over eye shadow and lip shimmer.

Fine - Our second cut is F. This is our largest grain at .008 x .008. This size glitter picks up the most light, and, therefore, is definitely the most flashy and exciting to wear! This size tends to be more popular with the performing crowd. It shines and sparkles and offers all the ‘bling’ you need! This is a great cut for a bright, bold and fun look.

Our final glitter selection is our Sugars

Sugars - The Sugars are also a .008 x .008 grain size. However, the sugars are not solid colors. This type of glitter is a translucent, iridescent plastic grain which offers a hint of color. The Sugars are very difficult to use as liners and are actually intended to transform the eyelid or desired area of skin into a glitter. The Sugars are also incredible for stage performers, but look beautiful and are fun to wear as an everyday eye shadow.

Here's the colors I chose:

Left to Right: Jawbreaker(sf), Butterscotch(sf), Pumpkin Pie(f), Cherry Bomb(sf), Bubble Gum(f), Sweet Tart(sf), Sour Blast(f), Spearmint(sf), Watermelon(sf)

For my first try with the product, I decided to use "Sour Blast"...

The Application Process:

The instructions said that it would be best to place a black (preferably) eyeliner where you would like to place glitter because it makes the glitters stand out more.
Saturate brush (comes with a brush but you can use your own eyeliner brush) with the "liquid Kandy"
Dip brush into the glitter and place glitter on top of black eyeliner (applied first)
Do small strokes until you get the desired length and thickness. I noticed that when I kept putting layers of glitter on top of each other there was be fall out. I think it's best to apply one layer, two the max.

Overall feeling of product:

The liquid sugar holds the glitter perfectly and keeps it on your eye until you wash it off (soap and water or makeup remover). The glitters are so vibrant and would be great to use for fun or when you want to make a statement. I absolutely love them and wish I bought more. I think that when I use them in the daytime, I"ll do a neutral simple eye and just place a thin layer of glitter just to give it a little pop of color without looking so dramatic.

Here's how it looks on my eye as a liner...

Well, that's about it...

Til next time,

~smooches :o)

Face Forward Fridays: Jennifer Lopez

2011-04-15T10:15:00.005-04:00

“Beauty is only skin deep. I think what's really important is finding a balance of mind, body and spirit. Somebody said to me not too long ago, 'Until you're twenty, you have the face you are born with, and after that you have the face you deserve', and I really loved that - the idea that you wear who you are on your face.”

-Jennifer Lopez

I thought it would be only fitting to have this Friday's inspirational face of Jennifer Lopez, who has been crowned "most beautiful" by Peopled Magazine. This picture is all about the makeup and the bracelet is just an accessory in my book. I love how the eyes are so dramatic but yet soft and subtle all at the same time. I am always reluctant to do the white eyeliner on the lower water lines but this really makes me change my mind about it. Her face looks so defined and I like the soft lip color that blends right into the look and doesn't over power it.

Comment, tell me what you think?

Til next time...

~smooches

Kit Talk: INGLOT eyeshadow swatches

2011-04-14T00:47:00.010-04:00

Anyone who went to IMATS in New York this past weekend knows of the crazy, insane and very long line at the INGLOT booth. There were people on top of each other trying to pick out products and/or experiencing the "freedom system". Eager customers were stretching over and grabbing the shadows they could reach without hitting the other person that was also trying to grab as well.

What wasn't really logical is that while giving everyone palettes to place the shadows of their choice for purchase allowed customers picking as well the inability to chose that very same shadow. I know that they probably wanted to show off their "great" freedom system but the process became time consuming, caused lines half way around the place and could have actually made them lose money due to the fact that many couldn't see/test the options because another customer had it.

So I stood an hour and a half on the line just to find out what was really up with this cosmetic brand that I've been reading so much about online. I purchased three freedom systems...meaning I picked out thirty eye shadows and received three palettes ( able to hold ten shadows each). Basically I just tested (swatch color on hand) the ones I visually liked and wrote the shadow's number on a piece of paper that I would later give to one of INGLOT's workers.


Back of shadow: the shadow's number and finish

After writing all of the shadow's numbers on my paper, an INGLOT worker would take the paper, put your name on it and had another worker pick out your shadows and bag them. I paid, went to end of table to wait for my bag and left the madness. Was it worth the 30% discount to go through that stampede you ask? It sure friggin was!

"Testing...testing...1, 2, 3...."

Comparing INGLOT with a MAC eyeshadow:


top: INGLOT/ bottom: MAC

left: INGLOT/ right: MAC

Here's some imformation on the finishes available:

AMC (advanced makeup component)- matte with shimmer

AMC Shine- metallic sheen with shimmer

D.S (double sparkle)- matte with iridescent shimmer shimmer

Matte

Pearl- pearlized sheen

Now for the swatches:

***PLEASE KEEP IN MIND: the camera has altered some of the eye shadow's true color

{Click Photos to enlarge}

photo taken inside

Photo taken outside

photo inside

photo taken outside

photo taken inside

photo taken outside

So what do I think about these shadows?

PROS

a nice array of matte colors
very pigmented
blends easily/well
$4.00 a shadow (current price if you buy "freedom system") *not including the $5.00 charge for 10 pan empty palette (price for palette only if you buy ten shadows)
great packaging (although the palettes are a bit heavy)

CONS

some matte colors are a bit chalky...so its a hit and miss when buying (if you can't test beforehand)
not sure if I like the texture
the shadows are numbered instead of named...BORING!
palettes are a bit heavy (if you are considering taking them with you on makeup jobs

What I did:
Because the numbers are on the back of each shadow, here's what I did to label the shadow's so I didn't have to keep popping them out of the palette:

place labels (can buy at any office supply store) on back

And speaking of popping out the shadows...here's an easier way to pop out the shadow pans without damaging the shadows itself (the magnets are really strong and it's hard to take out):

If you have another INGLOT palette... place the back of palette on top of the shadow you wish to take out


The magnet inside of the palette above pulls the shadow pan right out of it's slot

Well, I hope that I could have been of some assistance for whoever is thinking/wants to purchase INGLOT shadows.
If you have any questions, please ask :o) Or if you want to add something I might have overlooked as well :o)

til next time,
~smooches :o)

Face Forward Fridays: Christina Ricci

2011-04-08T10:15:00.003-04:00

“I like the way my own feet smell. I love to smell my sneakers when I take them off.”

-Christina Ricci

I was in awe when I saw this image of Christina Ricci! It's such a beautiful look that I am in love with. I like that her hair is tightly pulled back to really showcase the shape of her face. The sculpted dark brows stand out and makes such a statement with the thick winged liner and gorgeous.

Comment, tell me what you think?

Til next time...

~smooches

Photo shoot: Semi-Dramatic Pink

2011-04-05T04:10:00.001-04:00

Hi Everyone,
I'm just posting to share a couple of photos from a photo shoot that I did not too long ago. I love dramatic looks and this particular person wanted a hint of drama without being over done. She had multiple outfits for the photo shoot and the vibrant pink heels that she planned on wearing stood out to me, so I went for it...tastefully that is.
She was already beautiful so I evened out her skin tone, slightly contoured and added a light sweep of blush. I used a lavender pink eyeshadow (if I can remember it was a Ben Nye shadow) and used black on the outer area on lid. I also went dark on the black eyeliner and popped on some lashes...and a semi-dramatic look was born!

[Click to enlarge photos]

I absolutely LOVE when I do someone's makeup and they can't stop looking at themselves in a mirror and thank me over and over. It's such a great feeling that reminds me why I love doing this. It is truly a gratifying feeling when I assist in making someone feel special and gorgeous...I think it's a feeling that I'll never get used to :o)

Well...that's it for now!
til next time,
~smooches

Face Forward Fridays: Nikki Minaj

2011-04-01T10:15:00.003-04:00

“I don’t know where I fit in the spectrum of rap yet, I think now I’m kind of proving myself, but before, people thought of I was more of a sex symbol or wannabe sex symbol. Now they’re seeing. That’s why I make the goofiest faces, I don’t want people to think I’m up here trying to be cute. I’m trying to entertain, and entertaining is more than exuding sex appeal. I don’t think that’s fun. I don’t find it fun watching someone trying to be sexy. It’s whack. I’m trying to just show my true personality, and I think that means more than anything else. I think when personality is at the forefront, its not about male or female, its just about, who is this weird character?”
- Nicki Minaj tells The Fader

Although at times I feel as though Nikki Minaj's style is a little too exaggerated, I think that she really pushes boundaries when it comes to her makeup. From what I can tell, the top lid has a lavender purple shadow with black winged eyeliner, green shadow lacing the bottom lids and soft pink on her lips. This look is playful and full of imagination but with her claiming she has an alter ego/demon inside her named Roman, I guess anything's possible!

Comment below and tell me what you think?

til next time...
~smooches :o)

EOTD: Welcome Spring...eh, I mean humidity

2011-03-28T10:00:00.002-04:00

Today I'm sharing an EOTD that I did last week. I wore makeup on a day that was an insanely 89 degrees! I did a very light coverage of foundation (airbrushed OCC foundation), which didn't budge at all. Usually on hot humid days in South Florida (after ten minutes outside), I can feel my face just melting off...ugh. But the foundation stayed intact and didn't need powder touch ups. I do need to add that I didn't apply moisturizer before putting on my makeup because I knew that my face would get oily because of the heat. When it was time to take off the makeup, it was around 10pm and the foundation was as if I just airbrushed it on...that's definitely a plus. I used an array of products from different brands with no main objective and was pleased with the outcome. Sometimes when I just play with makeup, I get the best outcomes.

[Click to enlarge photos]

PRODUCTS USED:

Face:

Generic brow eyeliner for brows
NC 44 Concealer
OCC Skin Primer
OCC airbrush foundation "Y2"
MAC Transparent Finishing Powder
MAC blush "Dirty Plum"

Eyes:

MAC paint pot "Painterly"
Ben Nye Lumiere Creme Color "Silver"
MAC eyeshadow "Forgery"
MAC eyeshadow " Electric Eel"
MAC eyeshadow "Beautiful Iris"
Ben Nye Dark Purple (?) loose Pigment
MAC eyeshadow "Fig 1"
MAC eyeshadow "Beauty Marked"

Lips:

NYX Lipstick "Fig"

Well, that's it for now...

til next time,

~smooches :o)

Face Forward Fridays: Elizabeth Taylor

2011-03-25T09:00:00.002-04:00

I felt it was fitting to start back up my Face Forward Friday posts with no other than one of the great actresses of Hollywood's golden ages, Elizabeth Taylor.

Growing up, I had great interest in old movies. Every Sunday or when I had nothing else to do, I would spend the day watching movies like 'Pillow talk" with Doris Day and Rock Hudson, "Breakfast at Tiffany's", starring Audrey Hepburn, "Seven Year itch", "Move over darling" (can you tell I like Doris Day?, lol)....and my ALL time favorite, "Imitation of Life" (the remake). I was so enamored with how beautiful woman's clothes and mannerisms were back then. My mom and I would watch in different rooms (because she talks during movies) and we'd talk about it after.

So you can understand my sadness when waking up Wednesday morning and hearing that Elizabeth (yea, we're on a first name basis...lol) passed away. She's an iconic beauty in my eyes. With her dark hair and striking transparent eyes to her full eyebrows and powerful red lip makes her a timeless beauty. In homage to an elegant beauty, I've posted images (couldn't just pick one) of Elizabeth and quotes by her...

"The problem with people who have no vices is that generally you can be pretty sure they're going to have some pretty annoying virtues."

"If someone's dumb enough to offer me a million dollars to make a picture, I'm certainly not dumb enough to turn it down."

"I'm not worried about dying. I consult with God, my maker. And I don't have a lot of problems to work out. I'm pretty squared anyway."

"It is bad enough that people are dying of AIDS, but no one should die of ignorance."

"So much to do, so little done, such things to be."

"Success is a great deodorant. It takes away all your past smells."

Well, That's about it...
Til next time,
~smooches :o)

Le Rouge

2011-03-24T04:16:00.003-04:00

Bonjoir journee mon ami!
(I took french in high school...lol)
I have been in this "vintage" makeup type of mood lately. Defined and somewhat thick brows, winged neutral eye lids and a sexy daring red lip is such a beautiful look that never gets old. And since you can't do a vintage classic look without a red lippie, I went on a search to find good red lipsticks under $10 (US) for different skin tones. I don't feel that I have to spend a lot of money or use only popular brands to look fabulous...and you shouldn't either :o)

Fair skin tones: Blue based reds, true classic red with no hints of orange or pink
Revlon "Fire and Ice"- $8
Maybelline New York Color Sensational Lipstick "Are you Red-dy"- $7.50

Medium skin tones: Can use a vast array of red lipsticks but a lippie with an orange cast looks great and will really pop.
Covergirl Trueshine Lipcolor "Valentine Shine"- $7.50

Dark Skin tones: Purple based reds look fabulous and reds with a bit of plum undertones provides a great contrast.
L'Oreal Paris Color Riche Lip color "Rhapsody"- $9

I don't think one should always follow rules when it comes to makeup, so these are just suggestions and shades that you might like to try.

Tips for a fabulous red lip:

Make sure your lips are exfoliated and moisturized
Use a lip liner to help with feathering (I always color the entire lip with liner)
Using a lip brush will help with a precise application so lipstick wont end up everywhere
Use the "stick your pointer in your mouth" trick to clean off lipstick if it gets on your teeth

Also, I sometimes go to this site [Click Here] to get references of makeup styles done during the 1920-40's. This allows me to do classic looks while adding a modern spin when doing makeup.

Well...I hope this information helps anyone out there looking to be daring and wants to rock a red lipstick without spending money that can be used for other things...like more makeup :o)

And if anyone knows of a good red lipstick, thats not expensive, please comment below...I'd love to know :o)

Til next time...
~smooches :o)

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Airbrush System

2011-03-21T11:58:00.003-04:00

Not to long ago I purchased an airbrush system from Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics (OCC), so I wanted to share and provide my $0.02 about the products and my overall purchasing experience. I decided to purchase the Airbrush Makeup starter set for studio work. I opted out of buying the set for travel (portable) because of differences in PSI (I'll explain what that is in a later post).

The starter set includes:

Sparmax #1A Studio Compressor (1-30 PSI)
Top feed, Dual Action Airbrush (.35mm nozzle)
12 OCC skin foundations mini (1/4 oz) bottles (water based foundation)
12 OCC Skin Blush anf Highlighter mini (1/4 oz)bottles
6 OCC Skin primary Adjuster mini (1/4 oz) bottles
1 OCC Skin Primer 1oz bottle

The website states that this set is ideal for students or individuals who are new to airbrushing but a compressor is ultimately a compressor and an airbrush gun is ultimately an airbrush gun (professional or not...we all are using the same equipment). The only difference between this kit and the professional studio kit is the professional kit's airbrush gun has a .3-.35mm nozzle, the foundations, blushes, highlighters and adjusters are 1oz bottles and it's $200(US) more. So the compressor and airbrush guns are pretty much comparable.

The kit cost me: $399.00 (my OCC Professional Discount can't be used on any of the airbrush systems) and I also purchased a 1oz bottle of OCC ink clear for $10.00.

After ordering I received a polite email informing me that my items were being shipped, to verify my address and a detailed list of items purchased. I enjoy experiencing good customer service and OCC provided that by letting me know that they appreciated my business and that my stuff was on its way. It arrived fairly quickly (about a week) and I had to sign for the package (so be home or have someone home when you're expecting the package). Shipping and handling was $7.50 and I thought that that was acceptable with it being a package with some weight.
So now for the pictures:

Compressor (about 5 pounds) and hose

it's a top feed gun

Dual action airbrush gun

Dual action airbrush and tools included

Bottles come in baggies (all of this is worth $125 if bought alone)

OCC blushes (1/4 ounce bottles)

OCC Primer and OCC Ink clear ( both 1 ounce bottles)


Top: Yellow base foundation Bottom: Red base foundation (1/4 ounce bottles)

OCC airbrush foundations are water based and it is recommended to get a separate airbrush gun to use when working with silicone airbrush foundation (airbrush guns are around $80). If that is not possible...just make sure you clean your gun VERY thorough after each use.

OCC Adjusters (1/4 ounce bottles)

OCC Highlighters (1/4 ounce bottles)

Size of 1/4 ounce bottles

The bottles are small and a bit shocking (size wise) but airbrush foundation goes a long way. 4-8 drops (depending on desired coverage) can do an entire face. OCC foundations are water based and provides a semi-matte finish that looks natural when applied and lightweight (doesn't feel heavy or caked on face). Unlike many water based airbrush foundations, this is tear and sweat proof which is great for brides and humidity. I am honestly in LOVE with this foundation and airbrushing in general. I want to airbrush any and everyone, whenever I can.

Ok...so here's the part of airbrushing that gets me a bit annoyed and down. That a little tiny bottle (the same size as the white primer bottle) is $20(US). Yes! $20 freaking dollars for 1 flipping ounce! And for the 4 ounce bottle its $67.50...have you ever seen a 4 ounce bottle of anything before? If yes, you know its not that big. Ugh, really?! Geeezzzzz... gosh...
So I say buy the mini sets for $25.00 and you get six for that price. Only thing is you can not mix and match the minis that you want and you will have to buy the sets the way they are sold.
For example: Yellow based skintone set or Blush and contour set...take it or leave it. Personally..that's what I'll be doing when I need to restock (even if I'll end up with loads of mini bottles that I don't use as often as the others)...such is life. That will be about $4.17 each 1/4 ounce and around $16.67 for 1 ounce of product which I guess wont really matter because you have to buy mini shades you might not need in order to get the mini shade that you do need....hrmm....

Well tell me what you think?

Overall I am please with my purchase. I think that Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics is a really good company that provided good service, I am pleased with what I bought and the price I paid was fair for what I bought (trust me...I researched tons and tons before I bought this thing)!

Stay tuned for my post on the various airbrush foundation formulas available...
Til next time,
~smooches

oh... and NO, I'm not being paid to say this or got anything free from OCC...they didn't send me this airbrush kit to review, my opinion is just that, my opinion and I bought it with my own money. Ok, cool :o)

Kit Talk: La Femme Blush swatches

2011-03-19T20:42:00.013-04:00

Because I am just sitting here eating Whole Fruit brand Sorbet (Strawberry) and not doing a flipping thing (even though it is EXTREMELY beautiful here in SoFlo today), I took pictures of my La Femme Blush palette as requested by Me Myself and Makeup (take a look at her very informative blog here).

I bought the palette almost two years ago from CameraReadyCosmetics and don't recall how much I paid for it then but the 12 blush palette retails for $49.00(US) at the moment and the single (refills) blushes are $2.99(US).
*At the moment MakeupMania.com is selling the singles (refills) for a whopping $2.50!

I personally (my opinion) find these blushes to be very well pigmented and easy to blend. Because of the pigmentation you don't have to use a lot (learned the hard way, the first time I used these). I've also used these as eyeshadows (see Rasta Earrings inspired look here) and find it a staple in my kit. These are the only blushes I primarily carry when doing a makeup gig unless there's a specific look I am going for (then I carry additional blushes).

Ok, enough of my rambling...

1.Misty Plum

2.Mocha

3.Stormy Rose

4. Mulberry

5. Grape

6. Magenta

7. Naturelle

8. Amber

9. Soft Beige

10. Sienna

11. Russet

12.Red

Outside (natural light)

Inside but NO FLASH

Compared to a MAC blush ("Format")

Compared to a quarter

Would I recommend these blushes to an aspiring makeup artist like myself you ask? Yup, sure would. For around $2.50- $3.00 (US) or $4.09 (if you buy the preset palette) for each blush is amazing...especially when its a worthy pigmented blush at that. It's really hard to build a kit that you're proud of using when providing clients great service, so finding good quality "pocket friendly" products is always a plus.

Overall Grade: A

Well, I hope this helps...
til next time,
~smooches :o)

Before N After: Naturally Neutral

2011-03-19T17:28:00.011-04:00

Hello All!

I'm here with a post to show a makeup application I recently did. I was aiming for a natural look when applying makeup on a friend of mine. The shadows I used on the lids were very neutral and soft matte browns were used in the crease area. I used a fan brush to apply a light sweep of blush which was the color of the cross between a plum and an apricot almost. The lipstick that I used wasn't red (although it may look that way in the photograph) but a frosty brownish/orange color.

*Note: the photos as always are not a good representation of the true colors used
[Click photo to enlarge]

[Click Photo to enlarge]

Products Used:

OCC Airbrush foundation: Y3, R2

MAC concealer "NC42"

MAC paint pot "Painterly"

Random Brow/Eyeliner pencil from Walgreens (for shaping eyebrows)
MAC Eyeshadows : Vanilla, Bisque and Romp (was used only on bottom eye lid)
*BEN NYE Eyeshadows: Light brown (Mocha?) and Dark brown (Espresso) (see image below)
RCMA translucent loose powder
**La Femme Blush (see image below)
MAC Bronze Powder "Refined Golden" (for light contouring)
MAC shaping powder "Lightsweep" (for light contouring)
MAC Fluidline "Blacktrack (black)" (lightly used on upper and lower eyelids)
NYX lipliner "Mauve"
***Victoria Secret Lipstick "Dusk" (see image below)

Products with no particular name that was used (*Note: the photos as always are not a good representation of the true colors used):

*BEN NYE shadows used: Espresso and Mocha (I think)


**La Femme Blushes used (Mostly second blush but a little of the first above cheekbones)


***Victoria Secret Lipstick used (see, it's not red at all)

I love airbrushing foundation because it gives such a natural look. I only applied a sheer layer to keep things natural and not over done for my friend above. If I could airbrush every face that I work on, I would because it's fast and less products/tools used. As of now I only use Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetic's (OCC) water based airbrush foundation which works very well in allowing the face to look natural as well as giving good coverage but I definitely want try other brands. I am suppose to be going to the IMATS in New York the weekend of April 9th and 10th, so I am hoping to get my hands on some more airbrush makeup to experiment with.
Well...
that's it for now.
Til next time,
~smooches!

Side Note: Mint Apple (Sinful Colors Nail Polish)

2011-03-03T00:31:00.004-05:00

So... I've been getting a lot of compliments on my nail color, and I've decided to share. The color is like a minty green with almost a blueish tint. The color also has somewhat of a silver glitter throughout. The formula is really nice and not thick at all but it did take three coats to get it to my liking. I bought it at Walgreens for only $1.99...can't beat that at all!

Well, that's it for now...
Til next time,
~smooches :o)

Book Review: "Makeup Is Art"

2011-02-25T17:18:00.004-05:00

OMG! Guys...

I am in awe with this makeup book I purchased on Amazon.com. Are you ready for it?

Wait for it....

Wait for it...

BAMmm!

"Makeup is Art: Professional techniques for creating original looks"

Jana Ririnui & Lan Nguyen

Doesn't the cover just excites you?!

I honestly wanted to take pictures of the entire book to show you all! The images are amazing and the way that the book is set up and techniques discussed are great for anybody that loves makeup.
I was so pleased that I wrote a review on Amazon.com (first time doing so) to express my views on this book, so here is what I wrote (just because I don't feel like rewriting the same exact thing):

I reluctantly purchased this book after reading the only review at the time. I am here to honestly say that I am EXTREMELY pleased with my purchase. I have many make-up books but this one easily tops them by far (yes, I know…you’ve heard this before) but I don’t have money to waste and I take my purchases very seriously. The book (all 220 pages) is filled with amazing images that would spark anyone’s creativity. The text describes the many focus issues regarding makeup…The Face, The Eyes, Eyebrows, Eyeshadow textures etc. It explains ways in which to apply these concepts on your client and provides great tips for working in the industry. Although the book assumes the reader is a makeup artist, it is a book that any makeup lover would enjoy. The book also has sections that focus on things such as: Period Looks, Editorial, Conceptual looks and so on. I honestly think that this book is worth more then the $20 in which I paid for it...It’s worth more for the pictures alone. This book should be a staple for every makeup artist and anyone who has the love for makeup in its most creative form for that matter. Don’t hesitate like I did…buy! You won’t be disappointed.

Here's a peek inside:

I don't think the pictures I've shown does any justice but I hope it at least gives an idea of the contents of the book.

I don't know if there are any other sellers that sell this book besides Amazon.com in the United States (its a book by Carlton Books Limited in London).

So that's my 2 cents! I hope it helps :o)
Til next time...
~smooches :o)

Kit Talk: Lipstick Palettes

2011-02-23T19:38:00.001-05:00

With continually learning to become a successful freelance makeup artist, a lot of questions on how things are done (not talking about just makeup application) come up. A lot of times I get the answers by doing a ton of research and reading. After carrying ziploc bags filled with lipstick tubes on numerous gigs, I realized that there had to be a better way to have every shade of lipstick on hand with out the extra weight. So I bought containers that are suppose to hold beads to put them in...didn't like it. Tried melting lipsticks into pans...didn't like. I did end up finding a solution that works for me...So here's what I do:

I purchase empty Yaby Palettes from CameraReadyCosmetics.com that can hold 20- 20mm pans and empty 20mm pans (comes in a pack of eight).

What I need:

Empty Palettes
Empty Pans
Lipstick(s)
Spatula
Mixing Palette
Cotton swabs
Alcohol

*Note: I wipe spatula, and mixing palette with alcohol before use

I start off with cleaning the empty pans with Alcohol and set them aside to dry:

Using the spatula, I dig a little under the base and through the lipstick to break it off:

This is what it now looks like:

I use the spatula and dig out the lipstick that is down inside the container...

And press the lipstick (that I got from the bottom of container) into the pan:

*Note: I DO NOT heat up the lipstick in any way...I just press the product into the pan and smooth out the top. I find that with melting lipsticks (just so it looks all neat and pretty, can sometimes change the consistency and/or color of lipstick...

I then carefully place the top portion (part that I broke off) back inside the container. The lipstick now looks just a little smaller than before. I like this method because it keeps the integrity of the lipstick.

I found this at an office supply store (Office Depot, I think) and I am in love...I'm labeling everything!

I use this to label the back of the pans with the lipstick name:

Now time to place it into the palette. The palette is magnetic, so the pan just instantly sticks to the palette...

The pans can easily be taken out of the palette to refill pans if need be...

20 lipsticks later...my lipstick palettes...

I like this a lot better than hauling all those lipstick tubes around and its easier when picking shades that will best fit the look I am doing. So I am very pleased with the outcome. :o)

I share the things that I've learned either from research or trail and error in the hopes that someone out there may stumble onto my blog and finds the information useful...
So, I hoped I helped :o)

Til next time...
~smooches :o)

Kit Talk: Empty Containers

2011-02-23T01:39:00.002-05:00

Hello All...
I wanted to share information about some empty Japonesque spray bottles, flip top bottles and a powder jar that I purchased for my makeup kit. I needed bottles for Alcohol, lotion. water and astringent and a powder jar for the translucent face powder. I research companies online that sold these type of things and came across Aveyou Beauty Boutique on Amazon.com (searched on site). The prices were right so I bought...wouldn't you? :o)
I ordered using standard shipping on Friday and I got them on Tuesday, which I liked. Don't you hate waiting for an eternity for a package? I sure do...especially when the money's out my account and I have nothing to show for it just yet.

When I opened the package...

I found this tote bag inside, which caught me off guard. The items I purchased were inside of the bag and I thought it was a nice gesture...especially with me just spending a total of $10.60.

What I purchased: 4- 3/4oz spray bottles, 2- 2oz Flip top bottles and a powder jar

Honestly, the first thing i thought when I saw the spray bottles were "what the bleeeep!" They are sooo tiny! Like 3/4 of an ounce tiny. I wil have to refill very often, which might be a hassle but good because the products inside will be all fresh and not just sitting in bottle...right? (c'mon, I'm just trying to make myself feel better for NOT looking at the sizes before buying).

So these are the measurements:

Spray bottles ($1.30 each)

The Flip Top bottles ($1.20 each) wasn't as small and I found it acceptable

The powder jar ($3.00) was a good size:

So all in all, I am pleased with my purchase and the tote was a cute marketing idea. I hope this helped anyone who might need these things for their kit or who might want empty bottles on hand for traveling.

Til next time...
~smooches :o)

NYX Lip Liners, oh how i love thee!

2011-02-08T19:50:00.000-05:00

Hello All...
Today I wanted to shed light on a product that i have never discussed but use in my kit and think highly of (for the quality compared to price). NYX Lip pencils. I know, I know...Many people get liners from so many other well named brands thinking that they will somewhat have magical powers but truth is, many lip liners have the exact same ingredients. And I don't know about you, but I can't justify paying crazy amounts of dollars for pencils because I could spend it on more needed things for my kit.
I get the bang for my buck (is that the saying?) and buy NYX pencils which are creamy, easy to apply and the quality is very well for the price of $2.99.

From Top to bottom: Coral, Citrine, Dolly Pink, Fuschia, Mauve, Earth Tone, Prune, Plum, Burgundy, Edge Pink, Hot Red

Coral, Citrine, and Edge Pink has a frost type of finish and the rest are matte finished

From Left to Right: Coral, Citrine, Dolly Pink, Fuschia, Mauve, Earth Tone, Prune, Plum, Burgundy, Edge Pink, Hot Red

(with flash indoors)

(without flash outside)

From left to right: Cappuccino, Mauve (extra one), Toast, Pinky, Cabaret, Plush Red, Nutmeg

Top to bottom: Cappuccino, Mauve (extra one), Toast, Pinky, Cabaret, Plush Red, Nutmeg

All these liners were bought by me, so my review is not conjured up in any way. I like them and they work...
so why try to fix what ain't broke?? i hope the swatches help anyone who is thinking about buying.

til next time...
~smooches :o)

Ben Nye Lumiere Creme Colours Review

2011-01-17T12:08:00.002-05:00

Hello All...

Recently I purchased six Ben Nye creme colours and I was excited for their arrival. When they finally got here, I opened the package and was taken aback by the bright pots of cremes that feel out. I don't know how I came across these little jewels online but as soon as I saw them, I had to have them. Each seemed so bright and colorful (which I love).

I found that the pots were a decent size and compared it to my MAC paintpoints and realized that they held about the same amount of product. I purchased these for $6.40 each so I was pleased with the amount given.

Cosmic Blue, Chartreuse, Sun Yellow, Azalea, Royal Purple and Silver

While swatching the product I found the consistency to be a bit creamy and pigmented. It was almost like a wet color wash being placed on my skin that was clearly bright and colorful. I noticed after the colors dried a bit they almost turned into powder eyeshadows, which I found a bit interesting. I was able to blend them into my skin and the colors did not show any signs of demarcation.

No Flash

With Flash

I do have to admit that I was a bit disappointed that they weren't more base like as I would have hoped, only because I already have these colors in Ben Nye Lumiere Colour eyeshadows. So I am hoping that when I do actually use them that they will enhance the colors that I place on top and not just be eyeshadows...

But all in all...

OVERALL GRADE: B

til next time...
~smooches :o)

Purchasing Airbrush what?!: Airbrush Gun

2011-01-13T15:06:00.012-05:00

When recently purchasing an airbrush system I found it difficult to collect research and find information needed to purchase the right system for my needs. So I felt that it would be wise to make posts describing many of the information I found, which can help other people who might be interested as well.

CHOOSING AN AIRBRUSH GUN FOR MAKEUP APPLICATION

Look for a cup large enough to hold foundation without spilling
Choose a gravity top feed gun (cup sitting on top of gun) when using for face makeup
Choose a gun with .30mm or .35mm needle (best for cosmetic products)
Choose a dual action gun trigger

Gravity (top) Feed Airbrush

A gravity feed airbrush can have a paint cup or reservoir on either the top or side of the airbrush. Paint is poured into the cup or reservoir and when the operator pulls back on the trigger, the paint seeps into the mixing chamber where it is mixed with air before being pushed through the nozzle and sprayed out the tip. Some gravity feed airbrush models have different sizes of cups that can be inter-changed. However, as gravity feed airbrushes are used for detail work where only small amounts of paint are applied at one time, the cup on a gravity feed airbrush rarely holds more than about 1 oz. of paint.

Dual Action Trigger Gun

Airbrushes are categorized as being either "Single-Action" or "Dual-Action". Both have only one trigger, but the trigger operates differently.

In a single-action airbrush the trigger only controls the airflow. Push the trigger down and air passes through the airbrush to atomize the paint. Let go of the trigger and airflow stops. The volume of paint is controlled by adjusting the depth that the needle travels into the nozzle. This is normally accomplished by a screw adjustment on the airbrush, frequently at the rear.

In a dual-action airbrush the trigger controls both the airflow and the paint volume. Push the trigger down and air passes through the airbrush, just like a single-action brush. Pull the trigger backwards and this allows paint to begin to flow. The farther back the trigger is pulled the more paint is delivered to the airflow. In this way the dual-action airbrush is able to provide constantly varying amounts of paint. You do not have to stop, adjust the paint flow, then start spraying again.

In general, a dual-action airbrush is much more flexible to use than a single-action airbrush. When building scale models, the ability to adjust the paint volume "On The Fly" is of great value. This is not to say that a double-action airbrush is critical for building models. There are many people who use single-action airbrushes extremely well and could put most of us to shame. It goes back to the concept that an airbrush is just a tool and what works best for one person is not automatically the best choice for everyone. Double-action brushes take a little more time to get used to because your hand has to do two things at once. This is a minor inconvenience that most people overcome very quickly though.

These are a few things that needs to be considered when buying a gun for airbrush makeup application.
I hope that this helps whoever may be interested in purchasing for makeup artistry.

Till next time...
~smooches :o)

Before n After: Navy and Bronze

2011-01-07T23:16:00.006-05:00

Happy New Year All...
I know I haven't been around in a minute and I am truly sorry. I could say that I've been so busy having a fabulous amazing time and that I've been traveling all over the world just as I've hoped but that would be a lie...lol. I've just been living life. I did go to Texas in October and had an ok time. It was my first time going there as I mentioned in my last post and I actually liked Houston because it seems as though it's a place where I could actually live (which was a bit shocking). But it was ok due to the company I kept while there...you live and you learn, Right?...I hope. When I returned home I got a little dog name Moby from the shelter. And he's been keeping me a bit busy. I never had a dog before and I had to learn so much on how to care for him especially because he does have seizures...

Well, enough about me...I'm posting to show a quick before and after just because I remembered to take pictures of a makeup application I did recently. Because of time constraints I only worked on her complexion and her eyes and as you can see, I did not apply lipstick...

Because her complexion is uneven and she has darkening around and under the eyes and around her mouth, I focused on evening her skin tone with foundation. I concealed the dark areas before applying a medium coverage foundation. The foundation was set with loose powder and I lightly applied bronzer to create a radiant glow. With the Eyeshadow I used a shimmery almost navy shadow on the lid and a bronze colored shadow on the crease area. I highlighted under the brow, added black gel eyeliner and some Ardell lashes and it was a wrap...

Hope you like...
til next time...
~smooches :o)

Makeup me Proud...

2010-10-06T11:31:00.005-04:00

Hello All!
In homage to Miami Carnival weekend this weekend, I've done a makeup look that showcases the colors that are in my family's country flag...Jamaica. During carnival weekend here in South Florida everyone shows off their flags and heritage and I thought this would be a great way for me to do so... I used Ben Nye eyeshadows in "Sun Yellow" (yellow) and "Jade" (green). These shadows are very pigmented and of great quality. I used MAC's black eyeshadow in Carbon on the outer lid and kept a very sharp angle by placing tape on the edge of my eyes. I used MAC's Blacktrack fluidline to create the line on the crease that goes all the way to the bridge of my nose. I did my basic foundation and blush application and that's it.

This year I am not participating in the carnival like i did last year...meaning, I am not dressing up in a costume and marching in the parade. **Click here to see Post**. I decided to take a trip to Houston in two weeks instead. I'll still go to the parties (well... just one) and see the parade on Sunday, so no worries. I am excited to visit Houston because I've never been and am looking forward to seeing new sights...so its worth the sacrifice...lol :o)

I am really trying to get this makeup freelance things going in full effect. I think that I've been slacking long enough and I feel as though I am getting such positive feedback on my work by my clients which has caused me to be more confident with going forth. So I am excited about that as well...wish me luck with some new advertising I will be doing and with me really putting myself out there. If you all have any advice for me...I'd LOVE to hear it!

Well...til next time,
~smooches

Make Me Over

2010-09-30T22:00:00.004-04:00

Hell All...

I know that I have been completely MIA all summer long and I am sorry about that. I've been so busy trying to get things organized before i left for Australia and when I returned I was so busy trying to get back into the swing of things. I am hoping that i will return again very soon... I promise. I have been doing makeup gigs which I am enjoying but doing so much of others people's makeup so often makes me not want to do makeup on myself. As you also know, I like to take my pictures outside in the sunlight and unfortunately Florida has been a flood zone with rain falling practically everyday. I am almost ready for the winter months so I dont have to be subjected to so much bloody rain. Well...that's all in a nutshell. Next month hopefully I will start back up blogging again...

I wanted to quickly show a natural eye look that I did for a friend using her products... Well until next time...
~smooches :o)

Messy Arabic Inspired Eye

2010-08-09T01:40:00.005-04:00

I wanted to share with you all an eye look i did a few months ago but didn't post because I found it a bit sloppy and not to my liking. I thought since I haven't posted a look i've done in a while that I'd share this with you guys and maybe get some responses on what you all think...please tell me what you think so I can get better.

As you can see I used a purple eyeshadow in the inner eye lid area and a black eyeshadow on the outer portion of the eye lid. Using a tape to keep the black shadow sharp I winged it all the way up to my eyebrows. I used a white eyeliner and if I remember correctly NYX jumbo pencil in Milk to color in the area on both the outer portion and inner portion that is white. I used MAC's Fluidline in Blacktrack to do the black lining on the top and bottom eye area.

I am hoping that I can do a look this week that is fun and artistic (it the weather permits because I only like taking pictures outside).
til next time my friends!
~smooches

Double Trouble

2010-08-05T13:25:00.001-04:00

Before I left for Australia my twin sister visited from Georgia for an entire week and while she was here I had the opportunity to do her makeup for fun. She is very conservative when it comes to make up so I did a natural brown eyeshadow look but gave the look some drama with the lashes. Whatcha think?...

She's not very big on taking pictures, so this was a rare thing, lol. She ended up taking off the lashes (which i figured she would) and wore the makeup the entire day.

Well back to my assignments...that's part of the reason why i've been MIA for the last two months. I had to get all assignments done ahead of time before i left for Australia and then I came back to assignments that were behind. And I mean like twenty page papers...stuff like that. I regret taking a course just because this summer. It has really taking over my entire life. I miss playing with makeup but I'll be back soon! The course ends on August 11th...wish me luck....
til next time...
~smooches

Sightseeing in Australia

2010-08-02T00:15:00.015-04:00

Hello All...
I am finally back from my trip to Australia and wanted to share just a few of my pictures and experiences. After three planes and twenty three hours of travel I had reached my destination to Brisbane Australia. I had the great opportunity to fly out the day after I arrived to Sydney Australia and do a bit of sight seeing just for the day. July in Australia was somewhat chilly because it is winter time so I had to adjust from coming from the heat and humidity in Florida to the cold drab weather in Australia. I didnt have a hard time adjusting to the new time zone because I slept most of the twelve hour flight time from California. I went there to visit an old college friend and be a guest at her wedding but I did manage to fit in some sight seeing while there. Take a look my friends at some sights I saw in Brisbane as well as Sydney...

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Taking a walk in the neighborhood in Brisbane Australia

Downtown buildings in Brisbane

St. Mary's Cathedral in Sydney and me trying to fly

I'm a Joey

Australian Flag on the Sydney Harbour bridge

The Famous Sydney Opera House

Downtown Brisbane

A wallaby and it's baby joey

Me trying to feed the wallaby...fail

Overlooking the city of Brisbane on a mountainA Koala in a tree

ok...this blew me away...i got served tea in real chinaware in a McDonalds in Brisbane

Funny Money...

Brisbane local street

My home for twelve long hours

well there you have it...
all mixed up and all over the place pictures and an insight to my trip. I really enjoyed visiting a new place and experiencing the other side of the globe. After boarding nine planes, traveling for twenty three hours straight both ways and dealing with winter again was a small price to pay to have had this opportunity...
I did get the great honor in doing my friends makeup for her wedding. When I get some professional pictures from the event I will share.
hope you enjoyed the little showcase of my experience...
til next time,
~smooches

MIA in Australia

2010-07-14T16:59:00.004-04:00

Sorry I haven't posted in forever. I am in Australia on the other side of the world from where I live at the moment and with the time frame and being out and about, blogging isn't something I've had time to do. I will post when I return home with pictures and all that good stuff...

hugs and kisses :o)

"Mint Julep what?"

2010-06-19T17:55:00.014-04:00

It seems with time my face has gotten horrible. Large clogged pores and dry leather feeling skin. So I have gotten very much into skin care...well at least searching and researching different types of skin care regimens. Today I tried a face mask that I found at Walgreens...

This is what it says on the back...

Initially when I applied a layer over my entire face, there was a tingling feeling as well as a bit of burning. Kinda weird...it actually didn't feel good. I waited until the mask dried on my face for about 20 minutes. And the uncomfortable tingling stopped as it dried.

I then used a warmed wet wash cloth to remove the mask...I found that while removing the mask I noticed that the mask had made my pores look even more clogged...

It looked as if my face was filled with whiteheads because the mask had went into my large pores...YUK! So I then decided to use a buff puff (that I use at least twice a week to buff the dead skin off my face). I used a bar soap for your face (don't know the name or remember where I bought it) with the buff puff to exfoliate my face and to take of the remaining mask that had made its way into my pores.

At this point my face felt good. It felt soft and my pores no longer looked clogged with the mask cream.

So my overall feeling of this product...blah! Ok, not blah... it worked. It actually achieved the goal I had set forth when using it. My skin felt soft, the dead skin and whiteheads were gone and my face was clean. Will I use it again you ask? Why not... just means I have to do an extra step with the buff puff but oh well.

So that was a bit of my journey to a more healthy clean looking face...

til next time,
~smooches :o)

It's so HOT im melting!

2010-06-16T22:35:00.004-04:00

So, here's the thing ...I don't know about this hair color change.
I've colored it black before but I don't know if it is because its hot like hell here in Florida (everyday feels like 110 degrees) and I'm use to my light brown summer hair or if I'm just not in the mood for change...but I'm taking a while to adjust. It just feels wrong!
Lol...enough of my complaining. Today I did somewhat of a smokey bronze eye. It was simple, simple...simple.

I used MAC's eyeshadows in Black Tied and Carbon on the middle and outer part of the lid.
And then Victoria Secrets eyeshadow called Lose Control on the inner lid area and on the crease while blending up into my highlight area (which is just my concealer). Popped on some dramatic lashes..That's it.

So while I was outside taking these pictures, I could actually feel the makeup melting off my face. I mean it was like in minutes...insane right! I was so hot, I just went straight into that pool!

I don't think I can wear makeup in this weather...maybe I can just get by with face powder and eyeshadow but no full on foundation and stuff like that... So wish me luck during this HOT summer.

Til next time...
~Smooches :o)

Blues...

2010-06-13T20:21:00.006-04:00

Hi Guys...

I've been a bit down lately so I haven't felt creative at all. I draw and paint as well as do makeup and I haven't felt like doing anything creative. I only put on makeup when I am going somewhere where i feel like makeup is needed and I do the basic foundation, MAC's Amberlight e/s on the lid and a black eyeliner...so that's as interesting as it gets lately.

Yesterday, I did something insane...I had my hair colored black...yes black! My hair is naturally a reddish light brown with light ends (because of the sun) but I felt like I needed a change and I don't know if this change was a bad idea guys...

I washed my hair already today and my roots looked reddish brown again, so I know in a few weeks it will get somewhat back to normal...I hope...I think...who knows.

So in homage to my mood, I did a blue eyeshadow look before I went outside by the pool (my backyard) today. Sunday's are usually my movie and dinner out day but I didn't feel like going anywhere.

So take a look...Don't I look different? :o)
It always looks like im not wearing a top but I am...lol, I am wearing a tube top shirt thingie (the long kind that goes to my waist) with shorts. It was said to feel like 108 degrees here in Florida today and I couldn't imagine wearing anything that covers my arms and stuff like that :o)

Well I hope to blog again soon...maybe tomorrow, maybe in the next few days...who knows!

Til next time...
~smooches

When life gives you Lemons...make a Lemon Facial Scrub!

2010-05-30T13:54:00.012-04:00

Hello All :O)
It's Memorial Weekend in South Florida and that means parties, parties and more parties. I decided a few weeks back, that I was not going to attend any parties because I have a certain thing that I am saving up for that requires no extra spending on my part at all....but I ended up going out Friday and will be heading out today for an evening party. My will power isn't as strong as I thought...lol. My face has gotten really damaged due to the sun and my skin unfortunately feels like leather, uggghh. SO today I decided to make a lemon and sugar exfoliation scrub. Lemon's are natural facial exfoliators and by added sugar creates a great homemade facial scrub.

Lemon Facial Scrub
Lemon Juice
White granulated Sugar
Olive oil (optional)

Mix all three ingredients to the consistency of paste

Gently rub and massage on face and neck

Rinse with warm water

(I usually use a wet wash cloth and use it to massage the scrub into my face...this might be harsh for some faces)

That's about it! It makes my face soft and makes my complexion look brighter and somewhat clearer. Try it! Its free (hopefully you have it in your kitchen) and works...free is always good!

Here's a picture of my older sister and I out Friday night...

Well, that's about it for now... I hope you all in America are enjoying the long holiday weekend :o)
til next time,
~smooches :o)

I am still on planet Earth...

2010-05-27T15:26:00.006-04:00

I am truly sorry for being away for so long. The weather here in south Florida has been just beautiful and I have been trying to enjoy it. I then got a cold from my little cousin who I had to take care of while he was out of school for a week with throat infection and cold (that was a LONG, stressful and very tiring week indeed). When I felt like I was back in business, a different cousin of mine was murdered and I had a house filled with family last weekend and with getting over a cold while being a hostess caused me to be out of it this entire week. The house is still not back in order and I feel as though I am racing against time to get things done and in order, that I have just neglected my blog.

So that's why I have been away...but I hope to return very soon.

In the meantime I wanted to share an EOTD I did on one of the many cousins (girls) that asked for makeup done while visiting. Applying makeup on my little (not too little) cousins allowed them a sense of joy and a feeling of beauty during a really sad time for my family and I was happy to give that to them.

For my cousin Kiki, I did something dramatic per her request....using her favorite colors...

I forgot to do the lower eyelid but did add something there after this picture was taken.

Well hope you liked :o) And I'll return as soon as I get my shit together...hehe :o)

til next time...

Everything that shines aint always gonna be gold...

2010-05-12T21:13:00.008-04:00

LoL, the title is from Kid Cudi's song called Pursuit of Happiness...loving that song right about now :o)

I am sorry I haven't posted in a while but I've been so out of it and a bit lazy. I've been wearing basic makeup...mostly looking like the last post below. But today I decided to do something different and fun. I did a black smokey eye using MAC's Carbon, MAC's Amber Lights and MAC's Black-Glitter Brillants (which I'm not sure is suppose to go on the eyes).

First I applied MAC's Paint pot in Blackground on my eyelids and used a blending brush to blend and soften the edges at the crease. I then applied MAC's Typographic eyeshadow on the crease area and blended it well. MAC's Amber Lights was used to transition the dark shadows to the highlight area below the brows, which I only used my concealer in NC42 as a highlight. Lastly, I applied the black glitter to the lids using MAC's fix plus, although when i blinked it went higher then i actually wanted it to go...oh well! :o)

Ohhh! I used my new Mineral Bronzing powder from Victoria Secret called "Wild Thing" It came in this cute packaging...

I find that when using it, I have to use a light hand while applying because if not...it seems to give me an ashy weird look. I just applied it lightly above and on my cheeks (after the blush and shaping powder application).

Detailed List of products:

Face:
MAC Foundation in NC45 (forgot the name exactly and don't want to get out of bed but its the full coverage one that you can only get online or at a pro store)
MAC Shaping Powder in Light Sweep
MAC Mineral Blush in Love Joy

EYES:
Wet n Wild Eyeliner in Mink Brown (for eyebrows)
MAC Studio Finish Concealer NC42 (highlight area)
MAC Paint Pot in Blackground
MAC Eyeshadow in Carbon
MAC eyeshadow in Typographic
MAC eyeshadow in Amber Lights (bronze color on the crease area)
Ardell Eyelashes in 131

LIPS:
NYX Lipliner in Mauve
MAC lipstick in Siss
MAC Clear Lipglass

Well, that's it for now... hopefully I'll post again soon...I'll try :o)
til next time...
~smooches,

A gilded Rose

2010-04-28T15:20:00.005-04:00

It feels as though i haven't posted in forever...I've been a bit busy with organizing some other things that i'm really excited about but i'll share that soon...

Today I wanted to share a EOTD using Victoria Secret's eyeshadow called SPARKLE. Sparkle is like this chocolate brown shade filled with shimmer. In the light the shadow sparkles with silver reflects. I find this shadow to be very pigmented but I decided to prime my lid with MAC's Blackground paint pot to obtain a smoked look.

This look was fairly easy due to the fact that I basically applied VA's Sparkle right on top of the black paint pot and blended upward. That is about it for the eyeshadow application which took about three minutes to do. I did the same thing that I always do to my face like foundation, highlighting powder under my eyes and a soft blush. I used my favorite lipglass "Frankly Fresh" from the MAc's liberty of London. I also applied my dramatic eyelashes from Ebay (I think that I should have used simple Ardell lashes) to finish off the look.

So that's about it. I hope you like :o)

till next time...
~smooches,

Sam Fine's new makeup DVD: Yay or Nay, that is the Question...

2010-04-20T10:00:00.001-04:00

Buy Here
$24.99

So, Sam Fine has come out with a DVD that discusses the basics of makeup application.
Amazon.com product description states: "As follow-up to his best-selling book, Fine Beauty, celebrity makeup artist, Sam Fine, introduces his first instructional DVD, The Basics of Beauty. As a continuation of his commitment to educate women of color on the "fine" art of makeup, this step-by-step tutorial features three individual makeovers and addresses a myriad of beauty challenges by focusing on tools, technique and product selection. Sharing his wealth of experience and expertise, Fine enables viewers to fully understand all that goes into creating a flawless, natural-looking face."

Out of the 28 reviews, the video received 23 five stars, 4 four stars and 1 three stars.

Here's a stapshot of some of the reviews:I don't know if this is something I should purchase. I have his book "Fine Beauty", which was my first makeup book that I purchased almost ten years ago. When I purchased it, I was disappointed with the lack of actually makeup instruction after the first 60 pages. I found the rest of the book showcased celebraties that Sam Fine has worked with and a little synopsis of their looks. With just getting into makeup, I wanted more of a book entirely devoted to makeup application and tips and tricks but it did spark my interests to go steps further with my love for makeup.

So I don't know...Will it be too basic and showcase what I already know? or will it be a great addition to my makeup resource library? What do you guys think? Is anyone out there buying a copy or has it to enlighten me?

til next time,
~smooches :o)

DIY-Organizing my MU drawers

2010-04-19T10:00:00.001-04:00

So, I was sitting here thinking...wondering the best way to organize my Makeup drawers so my compacts are better accessible. I bought these drawers from IKEA a while back and basically just popped the makeup in and left it as it was. And now its time to make these drawers neat and organized....

So I decided to make little shelves to prop the compacts up so they are easy to identify and aren't just on top of each other...

I started out by measuring the length of the drawer. I decided to measure the side because I planned on making the shelves the length of the drawers side. It was 9 inches...

I then measured out 9 inches for the length...
Followed by 3/4 inches (three forth of an inch),1 1/14 inches (one and one quarter of an inch), 1 1/14 (one and one quarter inch again) and finally 3/4 (three forth of an
inch) along the width of the card stock.

*note*: I bought the card stock at a local stationary store (I think Office Depot) in a pack of 500. I used card stock because it was hard and stable enough to hold the weight of the compacts.

I then used a bone folder (a popsicle stick could have been used as well) to fold creases along the lines I've made.

I used double stick tape and taped both of the 3/4 inch strips together like so...which made a triangular tube...

I started to measure where to place the triangular tubes in my drawers. But then gave up on that idea and just glued them spaced out enough so the compacts would lay down enough so they were not higher than the drawer itself...

*note* : I just used white glue (like Elmer's glue) and glued the tube (the one and one forth side) to the drawer... After gluing all of the tubes made in the drawer, I placed the compacts neatly on the shelves...Final neat and organized look...

So there you have it my friends, my attempt at working with what I've got to create something to keep my makeup organized. What do you think?

Well til next time,
~smooches :o)

Face Forward Fridays: Audrey Hepburn

2010-04-16T10:00:00.001-04:00

I decided to take this week's Face Forward Friday way back... This week's face is of the famous Audrey Hepburn. She is an actress that screams class and beauty to me. I have always loved watching old movies like " Pillow Talk, Breakfast at Tiffanys and Funny Face " and Audrey Hepburn is one of my favorite actresses. Audrey Hepburn was a born in Ixelles, Belgium but grew up in England. She was a ballet dancer first and an actress second. She is considered one of cinemas's most iconic enduring beauty because of the look she embodied in her films. She was a great humanitarian and worked with UNICEF. I think she is just stunning! What do you think?

"For Attractive lips, speak words of kindness, For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people, For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry, For Beautiful hair, let a child run their fingers through it once a day, For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone. People, more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed. Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of each of your arms. As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself and the other for helping others."
-Audrey Hepburn

Spinning with Sparkles

2010-04-14T10:00:00.001-04:00

Hiya!
Today I wanted to share a FOTD. I decided to use one of the Victoria Secret eyeshadows that I bought a few months ago because they haven't been getting much love. The VS eyeshadows that I bought and reviewed *Click here* are really something to check out (I bought them with my own money because I just wanted to give them a try). I actually went back and bought a VS matte white eyeshadow that I just love!

I decided to pair VS eyeshadow in "Spin" which has a sparkle finish with MAC's Amber Light eyeshadow. I applied MAC's paint pot in Blackground on the lid and blended it up into the crease area of my eye. I then just placed the VS e/s in Spin on the entire lid and slightly on the crease area. After applying "Spin" on the lid, I applied MAC's e/s in Amber Lights on the crease area blending upwards. After I blended well, I applied MAC's e/s in Vanilla as a hightlight under the brows (even though I already prepared my eyebrows and applied MAC's Studio Fix Concealer in NC42 in that area as well). That's about it for the eyes...For my face, I used the usual. And I finally tried out my MAC's Viva Glam Listick in Cyndi for the first time...And I like it! Its not a rich red but more like a deep pink with a hint of red (kinda like a rich magenta color). Well, whatcha think?

Products Used:

Face:
MAC Foundation in NC45 (forgot the name exactly and don't want to get out of bed but its the full coverage one that you can only get online or at a pro store)
MAC Shaping Powder in Light Sweep
MAC Mineralize Blush in Love Joy

EYES:
Wet n Wild Eyeliner in Dark Brown (for eyebrows)
MAC Studio Finish Concealer NC42 (highlight area)
MAC Paint Pot in Blackground
VS eyeshadow in Spin (Sparkle blue on lid)
MAC eyeshadow in Amber Lights (bronze color on the crease area)
MAC eyeshadow in Vanilla (highlight area under brow)
Eyelashes (my Ebay lashes)

LIPS:
NYX Lipliner in Plush Red
MAC lipstick in Viva Glam in Cyndi
MAC Clear Lipglass

thats about it...
til next time,
~smooches

Sally Hansen Hard as Nails mini review

2010-04-12T10:00:00.000-04:00

Every time I wear Hard as Nails Xtreme wear in Green with Envy, I receive compliments. I just received one while writing this post on my phone at the checkout! So I decided to share this gem of mine...These polishes come in 30 bright shades that really pop and stand out with sometimes just one coat. They take about 7 minutes to dry and costs about $2.99 each.

til next time...
~smooches :o)

Face Forward Fridays: Zhang Ziyi

2010-04-09T10:00:00.001-04:00

My beautiful face forward this week is of Zhang Ziyi who is an actress born in Beijing, China. Ziyi Zhang has appeared in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Rush Hour 2 and Memoirs of a Geisha... "I want a life that is mine!!" I just had to add that...lol :o)
From researching her, I found out that she's not very favored in China...I don't know, it's what I've read. I still think she's beautiful. Whatcha think?

EOTD: Plasitc Easter Egg Inspired

2010-04-07T10:00:00.002-04:00

Hellooo!
I wanted to show a EOTD look I did using MAC's Golden Sunshine and MAC's Aquadisiac eyeshadows. The inspiration was my cousin's easter eggs...lol, yup...plastic Easter eggs. I felt like doing a dramatic winged look and carried it on with both eyeshadows and eyeliner. I went with a bronzy mineralize blush just to add some color to my cheeks and applied NYX lipliner in Mauve, MAC's lipstick in Siss and MAC's Liberty of London Lipglass in Frankly Fresh to give a perfect nude lip.

Face
Revlon Ready Foundation in 009 Rich Ginger
Rimmel London Natural Bronzer in Sun Light
MAC's Shaping Powder in Light Sweep
MAC's Mineralize Blush in Love Joy
MAC's Studio Finish Concealer in NC 42 (under eyes and highlight area under eyebrow)

Eyes
UDPP
MAC's Cream Colour Base in Luna
MAC's eyeshadow in Bright Sunshine
MAC's eyeshadow in Aquadisiac
Wet n Wild Eyeliner in Dark Brown (for eyebrows)
MAC's Fluidline in Blacktrack
Eyelashes- Ebay lashes

Lips
NYX Lipliner in Mauve
MAC's Listick in Siss
MAC's Liberty of London Lipglass in Frankly Fresh

well til next time...
~smooches :o)

Birds n Berries FOTD

2010-04-05T10:00:00.003-04:00

Hello All!
I wanted to share a FOTD I did using MAC's (Liberty of London Collection) eyeshadow in "Birds and Berries." I am just in love with this eyeshadow, so much so that I want to wear it everyday. It gives me the colorful dramatic look that I love but it is also wearable for a normal day out. I don't have any of the other eyeshadows from the collection but I did use two pink eyeshadows from my 88 Coastal Scents Palette to imitate MAC's "Give Me Liberty of London eyeshadow (LE)".

I also used MAC's (Liberty Of London Collection) Lipglass in "Frankly Fresh"over NYX lipliners in Mauve and I was in LOVE! It is a neutral pink beige with soft pearl. It provided the perfect nude lip with a very light hint of pink. On my cheeks, I went with MAC's (Liberty of London Collection) blush in " Dirty Plum". It is a sheer dark plum shade that is extremely pigmented. I used a feathered brush and applied it very lightly on the apple of my cheeks and blended it out towards my ears.

Products used:

Face
Revlon Ready Foundation in 009 Rich Ginger
Rimmel London Natural Bronzer in Sun Light
MAC's Shaping Powder in Light Sweep
MAC's Liberty of London Blush in Dirty Plum
MAC's Studio Finish Concealer in NC 42 (under eyes and highlight area under eyebrow)

Eyes
UDPP
NYX Jumbo eyeshadow in Baby Blue
MAC's Liberty of London eyeshadow in Birds and Berries
88 Coastal Scents palette in G2 and G3 (see photo below)
88 Coastal Scents palette in K8 (see photo below)
Wet n Wild Eyeliner in Dark Brown (for eyebrows)
MAC's Fluidline in Blacktrack
Eyelashes- Ebay lashes

Lips
NYX Lipliner in Mauve
MAC's Liberty of London Lipglass in Frankly Fresh

Well, that's about it for today :o)
til next time...
~smooches :o)

Face Forward Fridays: Lady Gaga

2010-04-02T10:00:00.002-04:00

This is a photo of Lady Gaga from the January 2010 issue of 944. Lady Gaga's makeup was done by Billy B. I find this look to be just delicate and stunning. I'm so use to Lady Gaga's outrageous makeup and theatrical outfits and I am almost relieved to find something less shocking than her other looks. I love how the eyes bring great contrast to her pale neural face and lips. I also like the soft pink blush shade that provides some warmth to the face. I love the hat, the outfit (what I can see of it) and the colored hair. It all screams beautiful but daring to me...what do you think?

Eyelashes from Ebay

2010-04-01T10:00:00.003-04:00

I've seen some Bloggers and Youtubers who have purchased eyelashes from Ebay, so I thought...why not! When I browsed Ebay I noticed that many of the lashes were insanely cheap and from Asian countries. I found a seller who sold just as cheap lashes and was located in Brooklyn, New York. I decided to go with that seller because I didn't want to wait for weeks for my package. The lashes were sold in a box with ten pairs for only 99 cents! YES...99 pennies! I purchased two boxes and crossed my fingers and hoped that they were at least wearable. If anything...it was worth a try :o) I ended up paying $3.98 for shipping, so the total amount was $5.96. And they arrived...

I find the lashes to be long...as in I will probably have to cut a substantially amount off the end to make it fit my eyelid.

I tried to take the closest picture I could of the lashes to show how it looks. They weren't over shiny with a heavy plastic look, they didn't look like expensive lashes either but better than I expected them to be.

The lashes looked a bit dramatic for my liking so I'll probably only use them when I do my drag dramatic looks. Overall, I'm pleased... for only spending under $6.00!

OVERALL GRADE: B (considering the price as well)

til next time...
~smooches :o)

My Birthday Goodies

2010-03-30T16:45:00.010-04:00

Hi! Sorry I haven't posted in a while...I had a tough week last week :o)

Yesterday was my birthday and I wanted to show you all the goodies I received from a friend of mine who knows I just adore anything makeup.

MAC Viva Glam: Cyndi

Liberty of London and MAC: Frankly Fresh LipglassMineralize Blush: Love Joy

Liberty of London and MAC: Birds and Berries Eyeshadow

Liberty of London and MAC: Dirty Plum Blush

Well, that covers the make up I received. I had a great day yesterday and was extremely grateful with everything my family and friends did to make my birthday extra special. I couldn't have asked for anything better :o)

I would have posted pictures...but I didn't get any back yet from my older sister and friends (the little that was taken) :o)
til next time...
~smooches :o)

Seven Random Facts Tag

2010-03-16T01:39:00.016-04:00

Hi :o)
I was tagged by the great ALLmEYEne @ Mo's Art of Makeup! to post seven random facts about me. I sat and thought long and hard...not really, lol... but it was a thought process to think of facts about me and my life because what might be random and different to everyone else is normal to me...cuz it's facts about me...get it? lol ;o)
But I did manage to think of seven random, weird, interesting or just whatever facts about who I am...thank God it wasn't ten that I had to come up with... because then, I'd be in trouble...lol.

1. I have an identical twin I have a twin sister that is 3 minutes older than I. We have a close relationship although we live in different states and no, I don't know what she's thinking or can read her mind (that's like the most common and weirdest question we get when together, lol).

2. I carry a book everywhere I go

Yes, I don't get it myself! But I must carry a book in my bag at all times. I think it's because I never know when i might be bored somewhere and need to pop out something to read to keep me occupied, lol... I usually carry informative books (not novels) or books that are dealing with what I'm interested in at the moment.

3. I am an education whore

With that I mean, I have 2 Masters degree (have two more courses to finish the second) and I've obtained certificates under my profession as well. The strangest thing is that I never really enjoyed school while growing up and i never really got good grades at that time either. I was and sometimes still is an introverted person that stays to herself and that wasn't a great personality trait to have in high school. Education became important to me as I got older. I realized that no matter what I obtained in this life of mine, that my education would be the only thing that couldn't be taken away from me...

4. I have a "thing" about the weather

The "thing" is that I can tell everyone in the south Florida area what the weather is or will be. I am constantly watching the weather channel and if I am out, I have a weather application on my phone just to check the weather when i feel the urge to...weird, I know.

5. I have a phobia of driving on the highway

I am terrified when it comes to driving on the highway. I just can't do it! I've tried a few times (once on my own as well) but I panic...palms become sweaty, heart starts to race and I freak out. I know how to drive and I travel in my car by myself doing whatever I need to do, practically everyday but the highway...feels like an entirely different ball game. I did drive a few hours while heading to Georgia with a friend on the highway but it was only two lanes, so it didn't make me nervous. Its bad where i'll drive an hour on local roads instead of getting on a highway! Yup...how random is that!

6. I don't wear skirts, short dresses or shorts while out of the house

I'm not talking about at the beach or by a pool but If I am getting ready to leave my house to do anything besides those types of things...skirts, short dresses or shorts are out of the question. I am a bit thin for my liking and I have a thing about showing my skinny legs, lol. When the leggings came in style, it provided more versatility (because I was able to wear the leggings under short dresses) but Its still something I don't necessarily do.

7. I adore anything that has to do with monkeys

I love monkeys! Stuffed monkeys, shirts with monkeys, pictures of monkeys...etc, etc...

well, that's my seven random facts about me! I hope you enjoyed learning a bit about who I am :o)

I think I have to tag someone but I don't know who...so I'll tag....YOU!!!!
Send me a comment below if you do your seven random facts so I can take a look...I would love to read them!

til next time...
~smooches

Face Forward Fridays: Kim Kardashian2

2010-03-12T13:39:00.004-05:00

Kim K went a bit goth in a spread in YRB magazine last year. The eyes are dramatic smokey with a heavy hand on the black shadow if you ask me. And her skin is a ghostly pale white which makes for great contrast with her striking eyeshadow. She is actually wearing a short bob hairstyle with a bang (wig) but it's hard to see with the amazing head piece. Umm...I don't like black lips but it goes with what they were trying to achieve, so i guess it works...

Does it even look like her??
Tell me what you think?

til next time...
~smooches :o)

I've Been Under the weather...

2010-03-10T15:38:00.005-05:00

Hi my Blogger Friends!
Unfortunately I have been sick and have been in bed for a few days now...boring!
But I'll be back soon, I promise :o)
Since no posts, I'll show you a EOTD that I actually did last week but I hated it and never posted it.
Seeeeee..... ugh!

Whoo cares right? The best thing about makeup is that it washes off... :o)
Hope you all are enjoying your week! Spring is almost here...yay!! :o)
Til next time...
~smooches

Blue Drags have more fun!

2010-03-04T19:17:00.009-05:00

Hello!
I was bored today...with nothing to do, so that meant makeup! Today was bright, sunny and in the mid 60s and I felt like something creative needed to be done (not cleaning or laundry, the practical stuff I actually need to do). I just felt blue...not sad blue, just blue. So blue makeup it was...not everyday blues but drag, cut the crease and fierce blues. And I left the house like this! can you believe it, LOL?! I had to drop something off at my sister's job and when she apporached my car, she jumped back and laughed...lol. She said "Dawn! You look like a drag queen!" and thus...the title! Drags have more fun...cause even though I looked overdone and extreme, I felt pretty :o) And that's getting rare, while sitting in this house :oP
So I hope you all like and agree...

I kinda went overboard with the pictures, i know...lol :o)
til next time...
~smooches :o)

EOTD: Pink bows and Laser tag

2010-03-02T22:06:00.006-05:00

Hello :o)
I wanted to share an EOTD I did this weekend. I was heading to play laser tag and have dinner with some friends and was in the mood for a girlie girl look but not too over done for laser tag, lol. It was a very simple look using MAC's Blackground paint pot on the lid and MAC's Sushi Flower above the crease and a little of MAC's Da Bling eye shadow above MAC's Sushi Flower (just to gradient the pink out to the highlight color...which is my NC42 concealer). That's about it...I only used my MAC studio Fix foundation in NC45 on my face, with a little of MAC's Refined Golden bronzing powder on my cheeks.

The night turned out to be delightful and fun :o) The boys were way better than the girls but we all enjoyed the experience even though they now have bragging rights! :o)
til next time...
~smooches :o)

Face Forward Fridays: Mary J. Blige

2010-02-26T12:00:00.000-05:00

For this weeks "Face Forward Friday" inspirational photo, I chose Mary J. Blige. Even though this is somewhat of a natural look with a stand out eye, I find it inspirational and clean. Not everyday, I find myself wanting to wear bright dramatic makeup looks and on those days...this would be my ideal look. Its stunning but flawlessly natural. Whatcha think?
til next time...
~smooches :o)

Victoria's Secret Eyeshadows

2010-02-23T11:00:00.003-05:00

While trying to buy time before meeting up with a friend for lunch, I decided to walk the local mall near my home and while in Victoria's Secret I purchased three eye shadows that caught my eye (there were a few more that I did like but they were out of stock). I found the price reasonable for the size and the shadow's consistency was soft, creamy and not chalky at all. I actually was impressed with the colors and the shimmer factor.

$ 10.00 for each shadow

Lose Control. Spin. Serenity

Photo doesn't give the colors justice at all...worth the try right :o)Lose Control. Spin. Serenity

I actually decided to wear "Lose Control" that night while going out and I really liked the final look (sorry, I didn't take a pic). The only draw back is with it being really creamy, I had some what of a heavy hand when applying with a brush. And I found it easier to apply the shadow with my fingers because of the creamy texture...it seemed more vibrant, packed on the shimmer better and less fall out when doing that as well. I've purchased VS lipsticks before but never shadows and I thought it best to only buy a few and test it out but I actually liked them and plan on purchasing more shades soon.

Well, hope this helps if you were thinking about or interested in VS eye shadows...

OVERALL GRADE: A+

til next time,
~smooches :o)

Foundation Search Uno

2010-02-22T12:31:00.000-05:00

I am on a search for a foundation that gives a natural but great coverage. I've used MAC foundations forever and I am almost done with my Makeup Forever HD foundation (which i find ok...not head over heals with it or the price). So I decided to purchase a drugstore brand while at Walgreens and test it out. I decided to purchased Loreal's True Match- Super Blendable foundation. I found it to be very lightweight but maybe a bit too yellow...maybe? I'm not sure.

Pros

lightweight feeling as if I'm not even wearing foundation
Cheap! at around $10 bucks
It did conceal some of my red spots under eyes and different areas around the face

Cons

Coverage doesnt build to my liking (would have to get another foundation if i wanted medium to heavier coverage)

Would I buy this again? Yes but only for simple day foundation use or if I'm in the mood to show off a natural face filled with freckles. But for really special events, I'd probably go for a foundation with more coverage.

BEFORE

AFTER

Well, til next time...

~smooches

Wet n Wild lip liners? Who knew!

2010-02-19T23:30:00.006-05:00

Hi :o)
I sometimes go to In my Kit to find out what makeup artists find useful in their makeup kits. It's a great site that isn't geared to one brand but what they find is the best brands out there to help them achieve success in makeup application. While looking through the lipstick and lipliner section, it stated that Wet n Wild lipliners are good liners to have in your kit.

" For a little more than a buck each, Wet N Wild lipliners have a creamy, easy to use consistency...not hard and waxy or hard to blend.
The notoriously versatile #666 (Brandywine) and #715 (Plumberry) are rosy nudes that work well on many skintones. The BIG score here is #712 (Willow), which is a dead ringer for the "original" MAC SPICE (before they messed with the color).
For under $5 these three colors have your entire "nude" wardrobe covered."

I was shocked! I had no idea that these liners were good because I never purchased them or used them before. So I decided to buy a few and test them out. I did find them to be really creamy and soft when applying them to my lips. I think these are a great find for my kit and at a great price...99 cents! who can beat that! :o)

In my kit (link above) is a great site that showcases products that artists use that are effective, so if anyone is interested and never heard of this site, i suggest you take a look...it might be helpful.

til next time!
~smooches :o)

Face Forward Fridays: Alicia Keys(2)

2010-02-19T12:00:00.005-05:00

This weeks "Face Forward Fridays" inspirational makeup look is a photo of Alicia Keys. Although the picture isn't really close, I notice that her eyeshadow is colorful. And anything that is colorful I love. I like how her overall face is clean and classy but then provides a pop of blue that plays homage to her beautiful dress.
What do you think?
til next time...
~smooches

Face Forward Fridays: Beyonce(2)

2010-02-12T12:00:00.001-05:00

Honestly, do I even need to explain why I chose this picture for this week's "Face Forward Fridays" inspirational photo ? No...I didnt think so!
Enjoy your weekend everyone :o)
til next time...
~smooches :o)

And this is why i LOVE south Florida...

2010-02-10T17:27:00.008-05:00

Hello All!
Today was a beautiful sunny 65 degrees although that's a bit chilly for south Florida. I know some of you are freezing your bums off and I feel your pain! Im originally from New York so I know what you're going through...yuk! The snow is only beautiful for about an hour, lol.

Well I am posting to share a EOTD with you all :o) It's actually an eyeshadow combination that I do often (without the light purple as a highlight though). I did nothing to my face, besides a layer of foundation...no power, no blush...just foundation (i'm trying to embrace the freckles). And for the lips...just MAC's clear lipglass.

This is me trying NYX Lipstick in Castle...which I didn't really like :o/

It was warm enough for a tank top...even though i got the sniffles afterwards.
Tonight's going to be about 41 degrees and feel in the 30's...so It's gonna be a cold night... wish my spoiled weather butt luck :o)
til next time...
~smooches :o)

Elctra EOTD

2010-02-09T01:39:00.005-05:00

Hi :o)
Im just posting a quick EOTD look i did this weekend. It was applied in about ten minutes with two MAC e/s (Electra and Carbon). I actually wore this look Saturday and Sunday because this weekend, although i would have preffered something more vibrant I didnt have time to do anything fun.

til next time...
~smooches :o)

Face Forward Fridays: Aishwarya Rai

2010-02-05T12:00:00.000-05:00

Oooo Mmmm Geee! I honestly think she is one of the most beautiful woman on the planet! For this week's " Face Forward Friday" inspirational photo I chose Aishwarya Rai. I think she is stunning even without makeup but this look screams beauty. This look inspires me even though its not over the top or even filled with insane bright colors. I love how her cheeks are dusted with a soft pink blush that shapes and contours without even trying and how her lips are lightly coated with a shade that is subtle but works well. And her eye shadow look as though its a gold/ gray colored smokey look that compliments her AMAZING eye color! What do you think? let me know...
til next time...
~smooches :o)

At the Grammys and all that jazzzzz....

2010-02-01T16:56:00.011-05:00

I wanted to share photos from the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards that aired last night. Since it seemed to be a "ladies night" with mostly women winning the awards, I thought... why not post some of these beautiful ladies and their looks.

Ok...I don't know about your views on Lady Gaga but I think she's a great performer that provides theatrics, which keeps people intrigued. Sometimes, I'm like " ok, she's really trying way to hard" but reality is...that's what works and keeps people talking, so why not...

I liked her makeup look last night, with her pink lips and bubble gum shade blush...
All I have to say about her "costume" last night is I'm sorry for the person that had to sit behind her!

Next up...Beyonce! Can't really say anything bad about her look/performance, although I noticed that she almost tripped during her performance....shhh :o). I loved her dress. She was beautiful....and her makeup, stunning as always! B received six, yes six awards...whooohooo!

Pink's performance was off the hook...felt like I was watching Cirque du Soleil. It was my favorite performance of the night...even with the crotch sequins...lol.

Taylor Swift won four awards and I'm gonna be honest in saying that I was disappointed that she won the "best album of the year award"....ugh!

I just LOVE Rhianna's makeup! She looks so pretty and is glowing. I love her contoured and bronzy look with her pinky cheeks and nude pink lips...And her hair...fierce!

And last but not least...how come I wasn't told that I needed 3D glasses to watch the Micheal Jackson tribute performance...WTF!!

Enough of my rambling...
til next time,
~smooches :o)

Face Forward Fridays: Kim Kardashian

2010-01-29T12:00:00.001-05:00

Ok, This weeks "Face Forward Friday" inspirational photo is of Kim Kardashian. Although I don't know how and why she's famous, I can't help but to watch her reality show and be intrigued by her antics, her family's drama and her makeup looks. It's like watching a train wreck...you know you should look away but you just can't. I adore the clean makeup and how the eyeshadow gives a great bright but smokey look (is that even possible?) and dramatically brings out her brown eyes. Doesn't her skin look flawless and chiseled? And the nude pinky lip is so pretty!
What do you guys think?
til next time...
~smooches

Purple Sunny Daze

2010-01-27T12:39:00.009-05:00

Hello :o)
Today I just wanted to share a quick look I did yesterday. It was a beautiful sunny day and I felt like trying a heavy contoured look with a kinda dramatic eye because I haven't really worn makeup in a few days and I wanted to have some fun (that and i was bored :o). It was a purple look with a bit of contouring under my eyes and on my cheeks.

I documented the products used below (including UDPP):
So here's the final outcome:

So what do you think?
And if anyone has recommendations for contouring and highlighting (products for a MAC NC44/MUFE 173 face) I would be greatly appreciative.
til next time...
~smooches :o)

Face Forward Fridays: Rihanna (2)

2010-01-22T12:00:00.002-05:00

This weeks inspirational photo is Rihanna wearing a sultry dominatrix fierce look. Although the top lid has minimal color the bottom lash line has a smoked out dark line that screams fierceness. I also love how the eyelashes are straight and seems to feather. With her fire red lips and the unusual but banging head piece, I find this look something that I definitely must try...without the headpiece of course because I don't own anything at all like that...lol :o)
What do you guys think about this look? Comments would greatly be appreciated :o)

til next time...
~smooches :o)

Makeup class is in session....shhh...

2010-01-20T23:45:00.008-05:00

Because I am so much into learning as much as I can about makeup and proper application, I search the web, research effective books, view YT videos and read blogs. I am on a constant look out for books that really teach instead of those books that showcases a famous makeup artist and all of their celebrity friends. Although inspiring, I don't want to read that...I want to read how to correct eyebrows the right way, how to apply makeup on an older women, and how to advertise for my services. While researching book reviews I came across two books that passed my criteria for a book that will teach. So I bought them :o)

Pro Makeup: Salon Secrets of the Professionals By Kit Spencer
Paid: $19.77 on Amazon.com

I find this book to be very thorough, filled with information on how to care for different skin types, contouring different face shapes and bridal makeup. I just received these books so I have not yet read cover to cover but from what I have seen...it's a good addition to my library.

FabJob Guide to Becoming a Makeup Artist by Jennifer James
Paid $25.60 on Amazon.com

I wanted this book for a while because it seemed so informative. This book is PACKED with information about the makeup artistry business. It discusses professional ways in which to work with clients, contracts, supplies, and advertising your craft. It has tons of information on the application of makeup as well. One of the great thing about this book is that it comes with a CD filed with invoices, forms and checklist that you can revise and use for your business. I know that I am going to enjoy reading this one.

Well, I hope this helps anyone who is on the search for informative makeup books :o)
Til next time...
~smooches :o)