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On my lips: MAC Shop Cook Naughty Saute lipstick

2012-02-29T00:00:00.000-05:00

I showed you the swatch of MAC's Naughty Saute from the Shop Cook collection here. Now, here it is on my lips. I love it! What do you think?

[Edited to add...] When I first saw this color on me I thought of NYX Paris, but I compared them side by side and while similar, Paris is a bit dustier or darker, while NS is brighter, more yellow and glossier.

Lipstick Madness! Bold, bright lipstick swatches and thoughts

2012-02-28T16:02:00.001-05:00

Whew! Do you all watch A&E's Intervention? Yeh... I love that show. I need a box of tissues to watch.

Sorry I've been away a while. It's that time of year where my favorite Pisces celebrate their bdays. In the midst of it all, I lost my aunt to cancer. (Talk about an emotional roller coaster.) Quite tragic to watch some one's life slip away. I knew she was losing her battle to cancer, but I didn't grasp that that was what dying looked like until I reflected back, watched scenes of people dying in movies and tried to gather information on planning a funeral, dealing with the dying, etc. It's catch 22. If I knew, I would have been more sensitive, I think. Since, I didn't fully wrap my head around it while I was with her, I was a bit stronger. It hurts, but I accept that we are mortals. I was her name sake.

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news... One thing that brought a bit of sunshine my way was bright lipsticks. There was no shortage of them! MAC, Wet N Wild and Maybelline all brought the madness. Of course, MAC has been releasing collections left and right *sigh*

Here's a round-up of lippies that I've been wanting to cover, but the moment I'm loving one lipstick, here comes another. My goal is to eventually have fotd's or at least lip swatches with these lipsticks.

Top to bottom:

1. Naughty Saute (MAC Shop Cook)

2. Innocence, Beware! (MAC Shop Cook, repromote)

3.Quick Sizzle (MAC Shop Cook)

4. Watch Me Simmer (MAC Shop Cook)
5. Flamingo (MAC Iris Apfel)
6. Party Parrot (MAC Iris Apfel)
7. Lady Danger (MAC, permanent)
8. Scarlet Ibis (MAC Iris Apfel)
9. Pink Pigeon (MAC Iris Apfel)
10. Fuchsia Fever (Maybelline)
11. Dollhouse Pink (Wet N Wild)
12. Purty Persimmon (Wet N Wild)
13. Cherry Picking (Wet N Wild)
*14. Smoked Purple (MAC Make Me Over)
*Threw this in for GP... another unused lipstick
**Darn! I forgot Viva Glam Nicki! I guess she will get her own post!

Let's take a closer look at the colors and my thoughts on them!

1. Naughty Saute (MAC Shop Cook) MAC says this is a bright pepto pink. It is, but in a positive way. Bad would be bright in a pastel pink kind of way. This bright starts to lean the slightest bit neon. I was skeptical about this because of color and cremesheen formula, but so glad I got it! I love this pink and the cremesheen formula on this isn't as slippery as I anticipated. I can wear this creame formula without a liner and it stays put. I am self conscious about my teeth in this particular pink though =(

2. Innocence, Beware! (MAC Shop Cook, repromote) We already saw this from the MAC Venemous Villians collection. I passed it up then. I bought it this time strictly because I've been impressed with MAC lippies since Iris Apfel. MAC says this is a light yellow pink. On me, it's a nice pinky nude. I could have lived without this one, but it's not like my other nudes.

3.Quick Sizzle (MAC Shop Cook) I thought this was the highly anticipated lipstick because people thought this would replace the highly sought after Pink Pigeon from Iris Apfel. Once I tried this, this is much deeper with a hint of berry in it and more velvet than Pink Pigeon. The recent mattes formulas from MAC are love! So this is definitely a winner.

4. Watch Me Simmer (MAC Shop Cook) Gorg... sorry I can't recall more details from when I tried it on.

5. Flamingo (MAC Iris Apfel) For me this is a pastel coral. I love the lustre formula on this! It's more opaque than you would expect, but it's light enough for a great Spring/Summer feel.

6. Party Parrot (MAC Iris Apfel) It's not hot pink, it's not hot orange or red... it's a hot, bold coral shade that's amazing! Definitely a winner. It looked spectacular on the MAC mua! Missed out on it? OCC Trollop I believe is close. You will get an amazing color, but you will sadly miss out on the formula.

7. Lady Danger (MAC, permanent) MAC says this is a vivid coral-red. That's an interesting description, but yes it is a vivid orange red. This is a unique show stopping lipstick recognizable anywhere. The formula makes it that much better.

8. Scarlet Ibis (MAC Iris Apfel) exactly like Lady Danger in the swatch. I think this has a tinge more red. I'll compare on lips. Sometimes the formula brings out different tones.

9. Pink Pigeon (MAC Iris Apfel) Pink Pigeon is not a dupe of the highly coveted MAC Candy Yum Yum (Darn, I wish I had swatched them side by side.) It's darker than Candy Yum Yum, but it's a hot, bold and loud pink.

10. Fuchsia Fever (Maybelline) Fab offering from the drugstore to cure any bold pink lemmings. This one is a more yellow pink and can stand up to any hot pink. The formula is nice and creamy.

11. Dollhouse Pink (Wet N Wild) This pink is a bright, pastel, pepto pink. Almost the bad version of Naughty Saute. Absolute matte formula, be careful with this one. If you can pull it off, great for you! Still glad I have it though. Don't hunt this down if you have St. Germain or Melrose Mood from MAC.

12. Purty Persimmon (Wet N Wild) It's the poor girl's Lady Danger.... sorta. This is deeper, redder, not as in your face or noticeable as Lady Danger. Women wearing Lady Danger, is a mad woman with a microphone in a room full of people. Purty Persimmon is a women in a body hugging red dress in a room full of people.

13. Cherry Picking (Wet N Wild) Red with a tinge of deep pink. Pretty. Good bold color on budget.

*14. Smoked Purple (MAC Make Me Over) Dark, vampy, eggplant purple, matte finish.

So there you have it. My latest and greatest. I'll give Viva Glam Nicki her own post (even if you have seen 101 posts on it. It's gorgeous!). Do you have a favorite bright/bold lippie that you are loving right now?

Black history through a magazine editorial

2012-02-16T12:00:00.000-05:00

The magazine editorial is titled "...Than a Brown Paper Bag." If you are African American you may know what this means. The "paper bag test" within the African American community is a symbol of racism within race. At one time, people had to check their skin color at the door to gain entrance in a certain parties or organizations. Only if you were the color of or lighter "than a brown paper bag" were you admitted. This practice left its mark on African American cultural and lingers in modern times. Check out Wikipedia's reference here.

For more information on this editorial and my latest work with amazing photographer Leonard Poteat, check out his blog The Close Up. When we work together we make magic!

While you guys are at it, check out this post that shows some more work that I'm pretty proud of!

RIP Whitney E. Houston

2012-02-15T14:25:00.000-05:00

WHITNEY ELIZABETH HOUSTON
1963-2012

I grew up on Whitney's music. As I kid you learned your ABC's, the National Anthem, and the words to Greatest Love of All. Some of my fondest memories as a kid is singing along to Greatest Love of All and bopping around to I Wanna Dance with Somebody. The news of her death sent shock around the world. I was en route to a party when the news came. My stomach knotted up making it hard for me to drive to my destination

Whitney Houston had a highly successful career as old as I am. I can't recount everything, but here are some of my favorites by one of the best voices of my time. My prayers go out to her family. We lost a legend, but I can't be selfish.

Check out some videos of my favorite Whitney moments:

Amber Riley's Glee rendition of I Will Always Love You:

My favorite Whitney performance ever:

When she made her 'comeback', this was my favorite song and how I enjoyed her, upbeat and happy.
I'm not always in the mood for a heartfelt love ballad (even though she was the best at it).

Happy Valentine's Day 2012

2012-02-14T23:03:00.000-05:00

(Kelsey Nixon -something cute to bake your man!)

That's right, YOU! All of my readers, I'm so grateful and appreciative of all of you, taking time to read the blog, my thoughts and ramblings on makeup, staying connected even when I can't pump out posts by the minute. I heart you all!

For me, Valentine's Day isn't as big of a deal (#singlegirlshade), but I was inspired enough to put on makeup. I was inspired by this JLo look. Cool and casual pink is the way I like to describe it.

Quick side bar: Today on the radio, the morning show had callers calling in to answer their survey of: "Who you would dip in chocolate and who you would dip in fertilizer/ (ish)?"

Who would I dip in chocolate? Ryan Reynolds or Idris Elba (for double chocolate!)
Who would I dip in ish? Tre Songz.... he's a baby perv.
How would you answer the survey??

On to the fotd!

FACE

MAC Matchmaster foundation 5.0

Studio Finish concealer nw25

Physician's Formula Healthy Wear powder

CHEEKS

NARS Angelika blush

MAC Porcelain Pink MSF

Black Radiance pressed powder in Creamy Beige

EYES

Nubile paint pot

Shimmery cream eye shadow (from a palette) on inner lid

Mythology eye shadow on second half of lid into the crease

Saddle eye shadow in the crease

Dark black brown shadow (from a palette) near lash line into outer v

Smoky Heir superslick liner on top lid

UD Zero liner on water line

UD Whiskey lightly on the bottom lid

L'Oreal False Fiber Lash mascara

LIPS

Dress It Up Pro Longwear Lipcreme

MAC Secret Lover lipstick (Make Me Over collection -- I forgot and had to google it!)

Again, Happy Valentine's Day. Remember that I love you! ;D

New Drugstore Items: Milani, Maybelline, FOTD

2012-02-13T11:00:00.000-05:00

I'm always in the drugstore for one thing or another and what's the harm in adding an eyeshadow to the to-buy list? Pack of toilet paper, light bulbs, allergy med, a lipstick! Works right? LOL

Here's what else I was surprised to see...

Six new Milani polishes for Spring

Six new baked shadows. I swear this last one (2nd pic, right, green) is a dead ringer for MAC Unsurpassable Mineralize Eyeshadow. I don't have

Unsurpassable, but it immediately caught my attention when I saw it and thought MAC dupe!

New Maybelline Spring Collection

I try to be a modest makeup fiend and picked 1 single eye shadow out of all the offerings. Check below!

Milani Runway Eyshadow inAntigua. Yall know I had to swatch as soon as I could, which meant no time for pics, lol. This appeared to be a taupe-ish shadow infused with gold shimmers. Neutral, blingy... me likey! The gold shimmers aren't just a layer on top. More chunky on the overlay of course, but gold shimmer thru and thru.

On me, Antigua takes on an olive gold appearance. Not what I was looking for, but it's cool, I used it wet. The photos I took when I smiled, I didn't like them. Sorry for the mugging pics,lol

No special deal about the products I used, but I do like that I used a Physician's Formula powder to set my foundation and I finally got MAC's Pink Nouveau and wore it!

Have you seen these new products?

Fragrance Survey: February 2012

2012-02-08T15:00:00.000-05:00

Fragrance Now 2012 by yummy411 on polyvore.com

Most recent fragrance purchase: Halle Berry Reveal the Passion
I haven't tried the original Reveal. but Reveal the Passion tickled my fancy. It's a familiar fruity floral scent. If you like Coach Poppy, Britney Spears Fantasy and the like, you will like this. I had sworn off anymore cavity- inducing, overly sugary (not to be confused with sweet) fragrances, but what I like about RtP is that there is a note that brightens it up. Not sure what it is, but it keeps it from being too heavy, warm and overbearing as the others can be.
Wonderstruck by Taylor Swift is another recent purchase (not pictured).

Fragrance on classic status: Insolence by Guerlain
This has reached classic status for me. It's sweet and elegant. Its character is demurely defined, so you don't have to worry about your fragrance defining you before you open your mouth. It melds with you. This is my fragrance when I can't decide on anything else. Perfect for formals and daytime wear... or anytime for sophistication ;)
Gucci Envy Me has also reached classic status for me (not pictured).

Fragrance that surprised me most: Betsey Johnson Too Too
The bottle is 'too too' cute! LOL. The bottle just needs a leather biker jacket to complete the look; at least that's what came to my mind. Does this smell like a rebel rocking ballerina? Nope. Mila Kunis in Black Swan? Maybe. It is fun and flirty, but warm, hearty and more sensuous. Almost what I expect from the sage designer that dons heavy liner and grungy hair, but is full of life in her small packaged frame. Can I share that while I love this fragrance, there's some note in it that gives me have a hunger sensation. No bueno... but I said I love this, right? This smells good on the young, mature and men too.
Reveal the Passion and Wonderstruck were fragrances that surprised me also.

Fragrance to be restocked: Dolce & Gabbana Rose The One
My signature. The end.
I could use a roller ball of Envy Me 2.

Fragrances that are on my 'to-investigate' list:
Jimmy Choo (not pictured)- I wasn't sure how to feel about this one, which made me even more intrigued! Must sample again!
Mary J. Blidge My Life (not pictured)- CVS had this promoted in a circular about 3 weeks ago. It has not surfaced at any CVS I've visited. I even asked a manager to order it for the next shipment. No luck yet. Why????? I'm still on the hunt. I could purchase from HSN, but I'd rather at CVS.

How would you answer the fragrance survey? Share already! I'm dying to know! ;)

First Look: New Black Radiance Bronzer in Blackberry Photos and Swatches

2012-02-06T17:07:00.003-05:00

(Swatches Blackberry bronzer l-r: blended out, single swipe)

I saw a few new items from Black Radiance in the drugstore over the weekend. This was the most unique item. Blackberry bronzer is a swirl of darkest grape or blackberry, lilac and caramel for a the deepest bronze glow I've ever seen. I tried it on me with a skunk brush (MAC #187) and it appeared like smoke, sheer black with a sheen to it. I can't wait to use it on the right skin tone!

Have you seen this or tried it?

Go Mommy Go!: Maybelline Color Tattoos

2012-02-06T00:00:00.000-05:00

Ahh! It's been quite a while since I've done one of these posts. Welcome back. My Go Mommy Go! series is a series of posts showcasing products, tips, tricks, and topics of discussion to help moms on the go and busy women alike work makeup into their high speed routines to stay fabulous.

I'm sure you've heard so much about the new Maybelline Color Tattoos ($6-$8, varies by retailer). If not, read on: They are the drugstore version of MAC paint pots. I'm a big paint pot fan as well as a huge fan of Make Up For Ever Aqua Cream colors. Both of the higher end lines offer cream shadows that stay put throughout daily wear. They can be used as a lid color or eye shadow base. Multi-tasking products? Major bonus. You can now get all of this is a drugstore line. Yes, go and get these. You need them.

Maybelline offers ten colors ranging in a few neutrals to colorful shades. Heres's what Maybelline says:
"Dare to wear our longest-lasting shadow. Our ink technology creates super-saturated color.
Cream gel smoothes on for vibrant color that does not fade"

I picked up Tough as Taupe (cream), Painted Purple (cream), Fierce and Tangy (cream) and Edgy Emerald (cream)

Clockwise from top left: Taugh as Taupe, Painted Purple, Fierce and Tangy and Edgy Emerald

Swatched in same order as above

Since starting this post, I've picked up more everyday wearable colors such as Pomegranate Punk (soft cranberry color with slight shimmer) and Bad to the Bronze (soft bronze shimmer). I'm missing the Too Cool (white), Bold Gold (soft yellow gold shimmer) and Audacious Asphalt (silver shimmer). I use pomegranate punk and bad to the bronze often. Move over paint pots! These offer an easy, fool proof way to add color and the effect (when I applied with my fingers) isn't over the top, but work appropriate.

These will definitely pop up in some future looks (I need some Go Mommy Go! vids on YouTube!) For now, check out a vid from Maybelline:

Glitter Love

2012-02-05T14:24:00.000-05:00

I thought I was sort of over my glitter phase since I have quite a few that I haven't worn, but here is more glitter love that I've acquire over the past week:

Glitters: LA Girls Nostalgic, Spoiled by Wet N Wild Jewelry Heist, Milani Hot Pink and Sephora by OPI To the Glitter End!

Swatched the same as above

Let's try descriptions: Nostalgic is a sea foam green, turquoise that has small glitter mixed with huge hexagonal glitter of the same color. Jewelry Heist grabbed me because it was a twist on rose pink glitters. Huge rose pink and gold hex glitters, tiny multi colored square and hex glitter. Milani Hot Pink is huge hex hot pink glitters mixed with fewer 3D silver hex glitters... silver but depending on what angle it reflects blue,green, yellow,etc. and lastly Til the Glitter End! is a dark silver, pewter glitter. I have a black glitter and the glitters don't shine, so this for me is an alternative.

These are all better used as layering glitters. Nostalgic is on my current mani and Hot Pink looks like a great Vday mani for the win!

Two gripes here:
1- Sephora by OPI retails for $9.50. I can get OPI retail $8; online for cheaper. I'm over it already. This may be my last polish by Sephora by OPI. I love the collection mini sets though.
2- I think the Spoiled by Wet N Wild collection is solid. It covers neutrals, brights, glitters, grays and blackened/deepened colors, cool names and all with an affordable price tag. BUT.. this brush for the glitter is ridic and ugly. I don't polish my own nails often or think much about the brush, but when even trying to swatch the glitter this brush caught me by surprise. While it's supposed to be tapered, the end of the bristles looks unruly giving the brush a thicker spread at the bottom. It was really awkward when trying to place the glitter. I seriously hope the brush in the regular colors are not like this. Is this a problem for you guys???

See what I mean?

Are you in glitter love right now? What are your favorite glitters?

What we are wearing on our nails

2012-02-05T00:00:00.000-05:00

I some how captured all of our (my sisters and my) recent nail looks. Take a peak!

Toni goes short and chic for her current mani. She's wearing a simple, traditional French with her gel manicure (no acrylic). Very office and interview appropriate.

Kay, TeenYummy411 gets sassy with leopard nail stickers. I scored these from Hot Topic ($10), but passed them to her. Since I took this picture, she's mixed up her look by polishing her nails with a solid color and then using a leopard sticker to accent a nail or two.

Jessica has her pointy nails back and true to her personality and nail tech's creative flare, she has an amazing design complete with glitter, neon, swirls and a tribal stone print. I WANT her nails!

My tips (supposed to be pointy) are covered in Deborah Lippman's ~~Across the Universe~~ Lady Sings the Blues and accented with L.A. Girls Nostalgic glitter (a pretty seafoam green glitter). I saw JillianDanica with a accent stripe of glitter on her nails and wanted to try it. I love the effect using glitter on glitter. I curved my stripe though. I love this mani. Just when I thought I was over glitter. Glitterlicious! It has calmed my desire to want my sister's nails, for now, hehe.

What are you wearing on your nails? What color do you want to try on your nails.

CoverGirl Lash Fanatic Mascara Review

2012-02-01T00:38:00.000-05:00

I've been on a roll with the mascara reviews, huh?Today, I'm showing you one of the new CoverGirl Queen Collection products, the Lash Fanatic Mascara!

CoverGirl says:
"Get up to 2x* the look of more lashes rain or shine!* The mircochannels in each bristle of our Lash Surround brush smoothly and precisely deliver mascara to each and every lash - creating the look of more lashes.
*vs. bare lashes"

I received the Lash Fanatic mascara in very black for review. If you are a long time reader of my blog, you know that I'm a Queen Collection fan! I love most of the items including the bronzers, foundations and powders. (I'm holding out hope on the concealers.) Knowing that a new mascara would be added to the line up made me very happy. I was a fan of the LashExact and VolumeExact (VolumeExact is being discontinued. ) so I had high hopes for this mascara.

Let's see how it performed:

Met expectations: Nice black color, no flaking, held lashes in place, decent lengthening and volumizing formula; performed as CoverGirl said it would.
Nice to have: No outrageous clumps, good every day mascara.
Didn't meet expectations? I wanted a little more from this mascara in the volume department... but that's just me. Lash Fanatic is such a great name, I wanted to believe it would have been more like "FALSE Lash Fanatic"
.

The brush: This brush is a wand with rubbery bristles, which for some is love or hate. For me I don't have much of a preference these days. With that said, this brush's bristles are bit more tight knit than usual rubber wands. My lashes were coated well with one to two coats. I piled on the mascara trying to build it up and see if I could get intense volume. I got close enough for my liking and the close knit, strong rubber bristles kept clumps at bay. Very nice!

Overall, this is a good every day mascara that you can build the volume on from daytime pretty to going out. Lash Fanatic struck a good balance in the lengthening and volumizing department. This mascara also held my lashes up without being being dry and brittle.

This mascara retails for approx. $7.

Have you tried this yet? Do you have a favorite CoverGirl mascara?

11 Ways To Burn and Eat Less Calories

2012-01-31T23:59:00.000-05:00

How to Burn More and Consume Less Calories

No depravation necessary. Just easy tips that'll trim calories from your diet without you going hungry -- see them now

This is a TotalBeauty.com weight loss diets article

Do the latest detox fads and diet books seem cruel and unusual to you? We think so, which is why we asked fitness guru Ashley Borden to come up with 11 sneaky calorie burning and trimming tips.

See them

Depotting Solutions by Ren of Makeup by Ren Ren

2012-01-30T00:00:00.000-05:00

Sunday, I took the time to depot (getting my makeup ready for palettes) and collecting MAC empties for the Back2Mac recycling program. I had a huge Z Palette that would be able to fit everything until I got some proper organization.

When I put everything in the palette, my shadows were sliding around and wasn't as secure. My first experience with the Z palette, my Make Up For Ever pan shadows were cemented in that palette. No worries at all. This time was different. Luckily, I was browsing my YouTube subscriptions and saw that Ren had just posted a video solving the problem!

Check out her latest vid for the solution!

Depotting Shadows into a Z-Palette & Making them Stick!

Polyvore Valentine Wishes

2012-01-29T11:26:00.000-05:00

Valentine Wishes by yummy411 featuring a long sleeve v neck dress

Estee Lauder Sumptuous Extreme Lash Mascara in Indigo Review

2012-01-27T00:00:00.000-05:00

Estee Lauder's Topaz Collection for Spring (2012) is all the rage right now with bronzey hues and turquoise. Their Pure Color Illuminating Powder Gelee in Topaz is the star of the collection-- a beautiful compact powder that blends a gel and powder for an enriched bronze color. Creative Makeup Director Tom Picheaux, gives us bold colors in a chic way, befitting of the Lauder brand.

I went, I saw and I didn't walk away with anything from the collection. *Sad face* The powder gelee compact was so gorgeous, but for me, the color was so rich it was more of a copper eye shadow than a bronze dusting for my face. The shadows in the collection are to die for. I couldn't pick one! I wish those came in a palette form!

However, I walked away with the Sumptuous Extreme Lash Mascara in Indigo ($23.50). Let's take a look at it!

From Estee Lauder's site:
Lashes seem to multiply, magnify, grow to extremes.
Three different high-volume fibers create audacious, false-lash effects.

THE FORMULA
Extreme Bold Volume™ formula is a blend of three high-volume fibers in a mousse-light base.
Acts like lash extensions multiplying and growing the look of lashes. Fortified with conditioning Lash-Advancing Vitamin Complex. Ophthalmologist tested. Fragrance free.

THE BRUSH
Oversized BrushComber Extreme™ with two types of bristles-flexible fibers carry maximum formula; solid fibers comb and separate for clump-free definition.

THE COLOR IMPACT
Prismatic pearls intensify pigment and luster. Eyes look brighter, wider, more seductive.

THE LOOK
Outrageous volume, lift and curves for an audacious, false-lash effect.

Pros:

Gorgeous conservative blue color
Nice sized brush. Not too big or small, but does fall on the larger end of brushes
The formula is not heavy on the eyes
Standard- no smudging, flaking, no serious clumping issues...

Cons:

As a lengthening and volumizing mascara, none of the claims are met.
Price

Before lashes

After lashes

After lashes with flash

Mascara (with makeup look) on top of Maybelline Falsies mascara

I'm mostly impressed with the color. I own Dior Show mascara in Azure. That is electric cobalt mascara. Super gorg, but not for the faint at heart nor anyone wanting to add a little spice to their makeup at work. With EL's indigo, I felt very comfortable at work with this on. The appearance of the color of this mascara ranges as a tint to the lashes to a soft colored mascara. At a few feets length, the color can be seen, but not super noticeable. A few more feet and it appeared that I had on blue liner. In the sun, I had blue lashes, but nothing clownish.

While I'm impressed with the color, I still wanted the mascara to deliver in at least the volumizing department. Without the mascara meeting the claims, I was very disappointed. I have been using the indigo over my regular black, but i think that takes away from the color. I will use primer before using this mascara. I may not repurchase this. I'm hoping to be blown away by the combination of primer and the color of this mascara.

Do you have this mascara? What's your favorite colored mascara?

Drugstore Paparazzi's Lust

2012-01-26T12:00:00.000-05:00

I'm sure I have something close enough to all of all of these colors in my stash, but I want all six colors from the Essie Go Overboard Collection (1 of 3 Spring 2012 collections from Essie.)

I spotted a new display of Wet N Wild at a Rite Aid, but where are the new Megalast lipstick colors in my area?? *sigh*

On my lips: MAC Iris Apfel Pink Pigeon

2012-01-26T00:00:00.000-05:00

MAC Iris Apfel collection lipsticks have given me life! I'm wearing Pink Pigeon (the lil' sis is in Milani's Rose Hip.) Pink Pigeon is bright, matte and totally a mood booster. Does it look neon? Believe it or not, the infamous and highly sought after Candy Yum Yum lipstick is brighter and a more true neon. I love both!

Can you see how Milani's Rose Hip compares. Pink Pigeon is matte (not the usual uber drying formula).. long lasting, and it stays put! The Milani lipstick is a bit more emollient, making it deeper in color and more prone to bleeding, shifting around. You def need a lip liner with that one.

Does it glow in the dark?

...andddd for PinK's sake ;) An untried polish: Revlon's Sparkling. Loved the color and glitters in the bottle, but the color on me? I was not in love =(

MAC Clarity Semi-Precious Eye Shadow Photo

2012-01-25T00:00:00.003-05:00

So many cool products were released back in July with the Semi Precious collection, but I walked away with only one of these hot cakes. I haven't used it because it's so pretty (and with other collections being released left and right, I didn't have a chance.)

Now, that this pic is chronicled on the blog I can mess it up and enjoy it! Do you remember this collection? Did you get Clarity?

L'Oreal Voluminous False Fiber Lashes Mascara Review with Photos!

2012-01-25T00:00:00.002-05:00

L'Oreal Voluminous Carbon Black is my holy grail mascara. I had to put it to rest a little while back as my eyes formed a sensitivity to the formula or something. Now, I claim Maybelline The Falsies as my go-to mascara. I've skipped quite a few mascara releases. Why fix something that's not broke? I've been through enough mascaras to now know what I want and what works for me and what doesn't.

Well the raves and pictures around the web lured me into the seduction of the False Fiber Lashes' fat, gold, shiny tube. Listen to the claims: volumizing fibers, false lash/ sculpted lash effect; longer, sculpted and curled lash look from every angle.

If you're a reader that's been around for a while, you'll know that I'm a volumizing mascara type of girl. That's criteria #1 for me. Did this mascara deliver for my average length, thin lashes?

Bare lashes

After mascara application

Don't ask me how many coats this is. I have a pretty extensive mascara application process. (Roll, wiggle and tease.. approx 5-8 mins to complete, lol)

The formula for me was a standard volumizing formula. The fibers are supposed to wrap and encase your lashes. Yeh, I'll go with that.

The wand is a decent one. Not too fat and not too thin. Just right. I was disappointed that I didn't get to see the cobalt blue brush before dipping it into the mascara. Seeing the cobalt blue bristles is just a preference, but wouldn't have anything to do with the look of my lashes, hehe.

The volume of my lashes from the mascara was a bit impressive. ALMOST the look of mascara and primer on lashes without the primer. I was taken aback by my dad's comment to me before heading out to a family dinner... "Your lashes look magazine worthy." I heard mascara gods opening the clouds. WOW. My dad is into details, but generally won't say too much unless when asked. Unsolicited comments from him are usually about a lip or nail color... or fragrance lol. They are still few and far between.

Volumized? Yes. Sculpted? Maybe. Curled? ..ehhh. Satisfied? Yes. Impressed? Yes. Would I repurchase again? Definitely.

11 Best Buys at Sephora Right Now!

2012-01-20T00:20:00.000-05:00

11 Best Buys at Sephora Right Now

We asked women walking out of our local Sephora to give us a peek inside their pretty black and white bags. See what's worth splurging on

This is a TotalBeauty.com makeup article

There's nothing that gets us as giddy as a little girl on Christmas Day than spending an afternoon at Sephora. Their shelves are lined with new shadows, perfumes, and the latest products promising to make us look absolutely, positively amazing. But what's the stuff that's really worth the spendy price tag? We stalked Sephora customers to find out.

See them

Ladies! I had a dull aching pain in my shoulder for a while, until I went to the gym -- I stretched and worked it out and now there's no more pain!!! I'm definitely going to try these stretches!!

7 Stretches to Ease Your Aches and Pains

Chained to your desk and have all kinds of knots in your shoulders and back to prove it? These morning stretches will help

This is a TotalBeauty.com workouts for women article

Got a crick in your neck that won't go away? These 7 stretches can assuage your pain and ease your body into recovery. And best of all, they require nothing but you, the floor, and 10 minutes.

See moves

Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush in Coffee Cake Product Review and Swatches

2012-01-20T00:00:00.001-05:00

Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush is a lightweight powder that melts into a cream according to Maybelline. When I tried this I didn't think it was a powder at all. It feels like a hardened, dense mousse. Once applied, it doesn't settle down as an emollient cream, but a cross between a cream and silky refined powder.

Sorry that the blush doesn't look picture perfect. I had to try this blush instantly when I bought it. Often times, picture taking comes second, lol. I don't mind that you see the blush in this messy state. In fact, it's important that you see this side of the product. The name of the blush will lead you to believe that once you touch it, it will bounce back into its dome shape. Not so much. It moves around like play dough. It doesn't keep neatly in its pot.

The blush is not super pigmented, at least in this color 60 Coffee Cake. This quality has its pros and cons. Pro? It makes it a fool proof product so that you don't over apply and look like a clown. Con? You may have to swipe a few times to build up the intensity that you desire. More swipes, more pushing on the product. I wish the blush could bounce back into the dome shape.

Swipe on the finger.

I was hoping the picture would show you that I didn't pick up a lot of product on this finger after one full swipe.

Left, one swipe; right, heavy swatch

Coffee Cake is a neutral, tan, peachy/rosey brown.

Overall, the product behavior in the pan didn't turn me away from this product. I love this blush! Lately, I've been doing the less is more look and this falls right into the scheme of things. I nice little glow on my cheeks, not an oily glow, but a polished makeup glow. This product also has the teensiest bit of shimmer, but barely noticeable.

Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush, $7-8

Do you have one of these blushes? Which is your favorite color?

5 Winter Makeup Tutorials You Should See!

2012-01-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

Winter is not over yet, even though the retail world is rushing us through it. Check out these 5 youtube makeup tutorials for some cool winter makeup to try!

Berry/cranberry is definitely the winter holiday color:
MissChievous
Miss LeinaBaby
Makeup by Ren Ren

L'Oreal Charming Cockatoo's Gaze Shadow Palette: Ease into Spring (Blue, Purple and Lime)

2012-01-16T01:49:00.000-05:00

I started this post and look by wanting to solely showcase L'Oreal's limited edition Charming Cockatoo's shadow palette from the Project Runway Take Flight collection. However, 1. I had to add some personal flare to it, 2. Discuss the collection inspiration and 3. Realize this was a Spring FOTD.

When the collection hit the stores, I was very excited, but limited myself to 3 products: 2 blushes and one nail polish, the infamous Owl's Night. It's been a few months since the collection has been out and in most place sold out, but at my local Bed Bath and Beyond one shadow palette lingered, begging for me to bring it home. I obliged.

The palette I finally purchased was the Charming Cockatoo's Gaze Shadow Palette. I've been very amused by cosmetic companies' names for products and the story behind the inspiration. It all helps me to appreciate the colors and the feel of the collections. For this collection, the theme was birds. Die hard PR fans will understand the theme behind this collection. I didn't watch Project Runway this season (shame, shame, but I do know who won! ) , but a quick google search clued me in to how the exotic birds correlate to the designer's clothes... it was a challenge! (Season 9, Ep.11) While the cockatoo featured on the show was your standard white cockatoo with a yellow crest, I think those designing the cosmetics may have had the Palm Cockatoo in mind.

I did a video tutorial on how I used the shadow for a blue look (if you haven't noticed, navy is my favorite color right now). Truth is, I wasn't feeling it. I chucked the false lashes and was about to wash off the look, but decided to experiment. I added purple liquid liner on top of my black liquid winged liner and added a lime green liner on my bottom lids. Can I tell you I fell in love (even if my eyebrows came out a little too red)? This is subtly colorful and neutral all at the same time. A perfect look for me to welcome Spring (in the retail world that is!)

All shadows had decent pigmentation. A plus for one of our favorite drugstore brands!

Deets!
FACE
Revlon PhotoReady Mousse foundation
NYC Bronzer in 720A Sunny
MAC Mystery Powder

EYES
MAC Studio Finish concealer NW25
MAC Nubile paint pot
L'Oreal Charming Cockatoo's Gaze shadow palette
(sparkly nude on lid, light blue in crease and bottom lid, deep blue in outer v)
MAC Superslick liquid liner in Smoky Heir
MAC Petrol Blue Pearlglide liner
MAC Colour Matters Technakohl eyeliner (lime liner)

CHEEKS
MAC Love Rush blush
MAC Porcelain Pink MSF

LIPS
NYX Smoky Look lip gloss (not pictured)

Did you get anything from this collection? Did you like the designs that were inspired by the birds?

Tips on How to Choose Blush

2012-01-15T23:24:00.001-05:00

By request, here are some of my tips on how to choose a blush!

1. Decide on what makeup you are wearing and what your stand out feature will be.
-If you are only using enhancing makeup (mascara, a touch of liner, powder) for a polished look you want a blush that will be a neutral match for your skin tone.
-If you are choosing a stand out feature such as emphasizing your eyes or pout, choose a blush of complimentary color. This can be a blush according to your skin tone or in the color family of your stand out feature. Pink lips? Try pink cheeks. Green/bronze eyeshadow? Try neutral bronze to peach colors on your cheeks. Your blush can even be a stand out feature!

2. Do you have dry skin type or oily?
-Dry? Use a cream blush or moisturize well and use a primer before a powder blush
-Oily? Always prime, use a powder blush. In love with a cream? Prime and use translucent powder over the cream blush if it doesn't set to a powder finish on its own.

3.Pick a color according to the color of your natural 'flush'.
Just finished jogging. Check the color and use that as a guide to your best blush color.

4. Are you a woman of color?
-Try to always opt for blushes with heavy pigment (i.e. MAC, NARS) With blushes (brands) that you are unsure of, try deep colors (deepest pink, wine, orange, purple)
-If the color is actually too deep for your liking, you can always adjust it by the tool for application. Try a duo fibre stippling brush (skunk brush)

5. Bronzer
Bronzer can be used as blush or combined with another blush of your choice to make you glow!

6. Check beauty blogs of bloggers of your complexion.
Do you like the blush they are using? More than likely it will work for you!

Other resources for blush help:
Yummy411 on blush!
Yummy411 on Powder blush and blush brushes
The Beauty Bohemian- Blush Application for your face type
BellaSugar's Guide to the Best Blushers for Your Skin Tone

HAPPY BLUSH HUNTING!

MAC Let's Skate Paint Pot Swatches and Review

2012-01-14T20:34:00.002-05:00

MAC Let's Skate Paint Pot from the Winter/Holiday Glitter and Ice Collection is my favorite paint pot right now. I'm so glad I added it to my collection.

Let's Skate is one of 3 limited edition paint pots from the collection. It comes in its regular glass packaging, but this time with a white top! The color scheme for this collection is white and silver..yum! Like most other paint pots, this can serve as a creaseless shadow or a base. If you have super oily eyelids, I would suggest a primer. When I first started using paint pots, they creased on me. Not sure why. I would use a base and everything was fine. After a while, my lids adjusted and I was able to wear them alone.

Upon initial inspection, you think it's another pale, white-ish cream, along the lines of MAC's other paint pots such as Bare Study, Soft Ochre, Painterly, etc., but it's so much more than that!

SURPRISE... It's a soft pale pink with slight iridescence and golden shimmer. It was totally unexpected.

Here's a swatch that really doesn't do this product justice. It was really hard to capture its real essence in a photo. This product ups the glam factor a bit for neutral lovers. I wore this to quite a few holiday parties. There was no need to add extra glitter and sparkle to my eyes as it was already in the product. This served as a great way to wear glitter in a more subtle way.

Giving this paint pot a chance after initial inspection makes me regret not getting the others. It's ok, maybe I'll actually use this up!

I did this look with the paint pot a while back in this post.

Paint pots retail for $18.50. The Glitter and Ice paint pots are currently SOLD OUT on maccosmetics.com. :( Try other counters such as Macy's and Nordstrom if you are still looking for these.

Do you have any of the paint pots from the Glitter and Ice collection? What's your favorite paint pot right now?

Cover Girl Queen Collection Vivid Impact Eyeliner Pencils Swatches and Review

2012-01-13T15:52:00.001-05:00

January has been a busy month for drugstore beauty. A recent release of new products came from one of my faves, CoverGirl Queen Collection! Back when I went to a CoverGirl dinner with Paula Patton, they told us about new products that would be debuting this month. Today I want to share with you the Vivid Impact Eyeliners.

(L-r: Gilt, Cabernet, Jade and Midnight Black)

Gilt- metallic gilt green
Cabernet- metallic plum brown
Jade- intense metallic bluish green
Midnight Black- intense black

About the liners: The high pigment formula with a smudger on the opposite end for striking liner or smudged out for a smoky effect. Waterproof for long-lasting color.
Available in 6 vivid shades. Smooth application.

Pros:
Great addition to the Queen Collection
A shade for everyone
Great metallic finish to most of the liners
Long lasting

Cons:
It takes the product a few minutes to set. This allows time for you to smudge it if you wish. If you have oily lids you may see this product move after a short period of time as I did =( Use primer to eliminate this issue when lining eyes or smudging the liner.

Can you tell which one i'm in love with so far:

Whew! I'm so smitten with this color and glad it was part of my arsenal. Yay for metallic gorgeous liners.

Stay tuned for reviews on the Lash Fanatic mascara and matte pressed powder!

Retail pricing may vary: $6-8

Shoe Woo is closing its doors

2012-01-12T14:30:00.000-05:00

Do you guys remember when I told you about the cute shoe boutique, ShoeWoo that opened in not-so-long-ago 2009? Well, in this horrible economy ShoeWoo is saying good bye. I asked for details since I was terribly heart broken to hear this. I was told that while the DC location was booming, others weren't. Did I say I was heart broken? ShoeWoo was one place that I enjoyed for the ambiance and eye candy, that is shoes. Well for a limited time, get your shoes 50% off. Even sale items. That feels horribly bittersweet. I wanted to buy up a bunch for nostalgia. I mean where under one roof can I ask for any shoe in a size 11 and they have it..Nine West (Boutique 9, etc.), Enzo, Anne Klein, Joan&David, Rachel Roy? My heart hurts.... I need to find out if they will close as an online retailer also. Hope springs eternal.

Wednesday Survey

2012-01-11T23:57:00.000-05:00

HAPPY HUMP DAY!
What's on my nails this week? OPI Sweetheart layered with Salley Hansen Glass Slipper... working hard to funk up neutrals. I was hoping this combination would remind me of my glitter acrylic days.
Mani I want to try: The New French... it's not new, but ya know.. Btw, I LOVE SOPHY ROBSON!!!
Product I'm trying (for review)? Revlon PhotoReady Mousse foundation
What I'm super excited about this week? MAC's Iris Apfel collection, the lipsticks!
Lust items: Estee Lauder's Pure Color Illuminating Powder, MAC Spring Trends lip palette and Zumba for Xbox Kinect, hehe.
Fragrance: Burberry Brit Sheer (trying to shop and use my stash)
What I'm wearing on my toes: OPI A Ruby for Rudolph... finally trying a red and I'm not sure I'm really feeling it.
What I'm feeling right now/Looking forward to/Inspires me: color blocks of neutrals, pastels and neons... yup, all together.

What's going on with you this week? What do you have lined up for the weekend?

9 Ways to Get Gorgeous Fast!

2012-01-06T02:19:00.002-05:00

9 Easy Ways to Get Gorgeous Fast

Don't change your beauty routine -- just add a few to-dos to your morning regimen to perfect your skin, hair, and more

This is a TotalBeauty.com beauty tips article

Sick of beauty articles telling you that you're doing your hair and makeup all wrong? We're with you, which is why we're not going to tell you to change your look. Instead, we're suggesting a few easy beauty to-dos that will tidy up your end result without a lot of effort.

See tips

Introducing Vera Wang Princess Night

2012-01-06T00:00:00.001-05:00

Chic. Intoxicating. Mysterious.

Floral Exotic Woody

Vera Wang Princess Night sparkles with first impressions of

luscious wild berries and watermelon, blended with sweet raspberry.

Middle notes include an exotic blend of velvety jasmine petals,

spicy orange blossom, and a twist of passion rose.

Finally, the base notes leave a trail of crushed sugar and hints of sensual musk and vanilla.

The bottle design is inspired by the sparkle of the city lights at night, covered in deep purple glitter, capturing the essence

of a princess after dark.

Part mischievous, part glam, and all sparkle, the silver crown cap is adorned with amethyst stone accents.

Vera Wang Night will be available January 2012

Retail: $35-75

Will you be checking out Vera Wang's newest addition to her fragrance collection? I'm so inclined! The notes are very much in my character ;)

Violent Lips Temporary Lip Tattoos Review and Demo (YouTube ONLY Give away )

2012-01-04T01:18:00.002-05:00

You've seen these Violent Lips Temporary Lip Tattoos on your favorite celebs. Check out my video to see how they worked for me... and possibly score yourself a set! The give away is only open to my YouTube subscribers. Leave a comment on the demo video for a chance to win. Winner will be chosen at random in one week.

I can't wait to try the blinged out sparkly designs from the Glitterati collection!

Overall, its hard to achieve perfect results, but they are totally fun!!! Boo, I skipped a step by not smoothing them out with water after applying. Have you tried these? What do you think of them?

These are available at Sephora and Ulta. Retail: $15

*This product was provided by PR for review purposes.

Recent purchases: drugstore and MAC, video overview!

2012-01-03T01:00:00.001-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR lovelies!! Cheers to the freakin' new year!

I wanted to show you guys a few of the items that I recently bought to close out 2011 and a preliminary overview/review of them. Check out the video below! Let me know if you've tried any of the products and your thoughts!

Products mentioned in this video:
Maybelline Illegal Lengths Mascara
Maybelline Dream Bouncy Bllush
Revlon Diamond Lust eye shadow in Night Sky
Loreal Project Runway Blush in Audacious Amazon
MAC Porcelain Pink MSF
MAC Glitter and Ice Rocking Iced Delights Nail & Lip Bag

Party Neutral Look featuring MAC Petrol Blue Pearlglide Liner

2011-12-15T21:24:00.000-05:00

Ahh holiday party season is upon us. I wore this look to a holiday party, neutral with lotsa sparkleeeee... so me! Unfortunately, you can't see the sparkle in these pics, but it's there. My friend told me I was stuck on neutrals and I think she is right. Ok, so what! LOL If you sound like me, you have to get your hands on Let's Skate paint pot by MAC from the holiday collection. It's a gorgeous neutral/pinkish nude color with gold shimmer and sparkle...LOVE. Formal review coming up soon!

The details on this look are below:
FACE
MAC Match master foundation 5.0
MSF Give Me Sun
Black Radiance powder in Creamy Beige
Studio Finish concealer nw30

CHEEKS
Cheeky Bronze MSF

EYES
Let's Skate paint pot
Prescriptives pink rust shadow in crease
MAC Dark Edge Shadow in outer v
Revlon Color Stay liquid liner in lid
MAC Petrol Blue pearlglide liner on bottom lid
Maybelline Falsies mascara
Shmmer beige shadow from a MAC palette (try Shroom permanent shadow)

LIPS
MAC Curvaceous lipglass

Adesign Brushes Holiday Sale 2011

2011-12-15T01:23:00.000-05:00

Click on the image above to take part in Adesign's Friends and Family event. A 30% discount on all items until 12/24/2011!!

Mario Dedivanovic Comes to NYC: January 2012!

2011-12-15T01:09:00.002-05:00

Omg! I could scream! I've been waiting for Mario to come to the east coast and finally he'll be here for a NY workshop! It's only weeks away! Are you going? Act fast, the seats are limited... and a ticket is........................................bada-bing $450. -__- Register here.

Estee Lauder Signature Silky Powder Blush in Nude Nuance: Review and Swatches

2011-12-13T02:09:00.000-05:00

Ever since I passed up Springshine Ombre blush from MAC's Spring Color Forecast collection, I've been geeking for it. You know, I left it there because why do I need yet another bronzer??? Instead I got the Grape and Peach ombre blushes -__- Ask me how often I touch them. Anddd long face again. So, some where in my brain I feel I need Springshine. Luckily for those wanting the grape ombre blush, it will be repromoted in the MAC Daphne Guinness collection coming up. What about someone like me who needs another bronzer blush like a shot in the foot?

We have to hunt down people willing to sell theirs or haggle with swappers....OR find a dupe (a sport). My searching returned results for dupes for the highly sought after Peach Ombre blush. Like a needle in a haystack, one result returned info that NYC's Sunny Matte bronzer is a close dupe. I wasn't persuaded. Luckily, I remembered that Estee Lauder had ombre blushes before MAC. The one closest to Springshine is called Estee Lauder Signature Silky Powder Blush Nude Nuance. CCO discounted price... BINGO! Apparently, they don't sell it any more. =(

I'm mostly content for now... but if you have a Springshine you don't mind departing with, HOLLA! Keep reading to see the blush and swatches!

(flash- top to bottom; lightest to darkest; right-- blended)

(without flash; more true to life color)

I'm happy with this blush. It is silky smooth, blendable and pretty even without the shimmer. It's not chalky or too powdery at all. Springshine would make me happier, though ;) (ooh you makeup addicts know how it is! LOL)

Dear Urban Decay, re: Urban Decay Duo Liner

2011-12-09T15:55:00.002-05:00

Dear Urban Decay,
When your too-popular-for-its-own-good Naked palette hit the market, it initially debuted with a duo liner of Zero and Whiskey, the standard, but essential brown and black liners conveniently in one stick that tops off any look. Then the palette was released with a brush. Let's just say I'm glad I got the liners! (...because I love them, not because the brush is bad.) I fell in love it and was devastated all at once. I knew once I ran out of the liners I wouldn't ever be able to replace it. It got so small it was hard to continue sharpening it. The caps were outgrowing the liner!

You wowed me earlier this year by listening to the fans and changing the packaging of our beloved Primer Potion. I think you all heard my call and decided to wow me again. I saw my liner being sold separately at the counter at Sephora. I heard jingle bells! Now all is well in the world. Kudos and thank you!!!!

Now is it asking too much to make duo liners of other complimentary colors (as permanent items in the line)??

Love,
Kia, an Urban Decay Fan

This liner can be found at Sephora, $12. Unfortunately, I don't see this item on Sephora.com... but, they do have two pencils/combo pack for $14 exclusive to Sephora.com!

Sinful Colors Wish Holiday Collection 2011

2011-12-07T00:35:00.001-05:00

Take a look at the complete Sinful Colors Wish Holiday Collection 2011:

Five gem-inspired shades of polish:

OUT OF THIS WORLD: a perfect silver with swirls of glimmer

MIDNIGHT BLUE: a bold, bright twist on navy

SUGAR SUGAR: a candy cane, red-hot tint

DADDY'S GIRL: a deep purple with a drizzle of shimmer and glitter

LAST CHANCE: an emerald with depth and allure

Two metallic shades of nail art:

FLOWER GIRL: a bronzy gold with tons of sparkle

FASHIONISTA: a glitter-laden pewter

Each shade is $1.99 each and can be found at your nearest beauty supply or Walgreens.

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tar Box Sets

2011-12-07T00:20:00.000-05:00

Check out OCC's newest sets that include a full size lip brush! OCC's Lip Tar Set offerings:

Passionately Pink: This collection of pinks runs the gamut from pastel pink to deep fuchsia and everything in between! It includes Lip Tars in Tone, Narcissus, Pageant, Pretty Boy and Strumpet, along side a full-sized OCC Precision Lip Brush #010, a retail value of over $83.00 US available now for only $49.50.

Ornamental Orange: A diverse and imminently wearable collection of tangerine tones, from pastel to coral, to neon and vivid fire engine red! It includes Lip Tars in Divine, Cha Cha, Banjee, Trollop and Reverb, and also includes a full-sized OCC Precision Lip Brush #010, a retail value of over $83.00 US available now for only $49.50.

IMATS featuring Kabuki in 2012

2011-12-05T20:26:00.000-05:00

Added to the roster of super stars in the industry that will be at IMATS 2012 is Kabuki!! Are you excited? I am!!

Bridesmaid Makeover!

2011-12-05T19:45:00.002-05:00

Gorgeous Bridesmaid Makeover

Watch new mom Annalisa get a glamorous makeover for her best friend's wedding

This is a TotalBeauty.com makeover article

Being a bridesmaid is no easy task -- especially when you have to squeeze into that dress soon after having a baby. New mom Annalisa needed a fresh look for her BFF's big day, and she wanted her new 'do to be easy to maintain. Our dream team of makeup artists and hairstylists gave her just that.

See it

Hello Kitty Intense Bling Roller Girl Perfume

2011-12-05T09:00:00.000-05:00

Hello Kitty Intense Bling Roller Girl Perfume ($22, Sephora) tickled my fancy on first sniff. The original Hello Kitty was nice, but a tad familiar with fragrances like Coach Poppy and Britney Spears Fantasy already in my fragrance wardrobe. Yes, a typical fruity floral fragrance. The intense version gave the scent some purpose and finally won me over. I had to have it. (Neither the original, nor the intense version are as heavy as Coach Poppy.) Now days with enough full bottles of perfume going unused, I opt for roller balls/travel sizes of perfume unless I'm head over heels with it and comes in a gift set. When I spotted my favorite HK Intense version in this blinged out roller ball, I heard Christmas bells ringing! So cute!

In the package is a container with .33 oz of juice. The top is a plastic, silver HK head and the bottle is bejeweled with rhinestones and roller ball applicator. Not sure if the bottle is one that I want to carry in my purse, more so for the durability than the size. My second time pulling the perfume out of the box, I lost a jewel.

Notes: Currant leaves and buds sorbet, green apple, Italian mandarin, magnolia, freesia, orange blossom, tonka, vanilla and musk. Intense has more concentrated notes than the original.

While I don't like to indulge in a full bottle (1.7 oz, $69), this bottle is so precious. I wasn't wild about the original, but this darker bottle with black atomizer is a winner. I love almost any bottle with ball (and hose) atomizer! HEAR THAT PERUME COMPANIES?? I need to start decanting my perfumes, best of both worlds.

Great stocking stuffer for the HK lover in your life!

Have you tried this? What do you think?

Hard Candy Glossaholic Rise and Shine Energizing Lip Gloss Review, Video and Swatches

2011-12-03T14:25:00.002-05:00

If you made it through the title, congrats! LOL Now on to the review with swatches and video!

Hard Candy Glossaholic Rise and Shine Energizing Lip Gloss (top coat) is essentially Nubar 2010 or Sally Hansen Hidden Treasure for the lips in a previously seen MAC Wonder Woman lipglass packaging; a nice flaky gloss to add dimension and fun to your lips with a HUGE doe foot! It caught my eye immediately, but check out my thoughts on it!

According to Hard Candy: "SUPER HUGE MEGA WATT LIPS One dip covers your lips! Ginormous applicator with gloss cup deposits gloss to your whole mouth in one swipe! These super lustrous lip glosses are infused with prisms of color that make lips appear fuller and plumper. Out of this world hyper-reflective prisms of pearl make lips sparkle like crazy! Feeling tired or wired? Two Glossaholic sparkling clear top coats are infused with mood altering elixirs to help you Chill Out or Rise & Shine! – You can wear alone or as a top coat. "

In this range there are a total of 8 glosses, two of these are top coat glosses, Coffee and Vanilla. I got the Coffee energizing gloss. I don't like roasted coffee beans so close to my nose all day, unless that's your thing and gets you going. The flakes reflect orange, gold and green. The other option, Glossaholic Chill Out, Vanilla, has a scent to calm you. The flakes reflect cooler colors... light blue, purple. The other six glosses have color with a good amount of sparkle. Scent aside, the gloss is gorgeous and the flakes aren't too obnoxious, just enough to give you ample sparkle.

Bottom line: I want more! Only $5 a pop!

Milani Purple Gleam and Gold and Black Glam

2011-12-01T01:59:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to share a couple things because it's been a minute... If you follow my blog via Facebook, you probably have heard about and seen some of this stuff!

First let me show you my favorite purple, sparkly polish right now.... Milani Purple Gleam. PG is the jewel purple tone from the one coat glitter formula of polishes. It took a bit more than one coat to get an even application, but it's ok. (This design was based with OPI's Midnight in Moscow.) The dense glitter makes me happy when the sun or candle/moonlight hits my nails! I'm always on the hunt for an awesome purple glitter and I've found a few... I've been meaning to do a post on that very subject! This particular glitter brightened my day since Revlon's Facets of Fuchsia didn't strike my fancy much back when I tried it. It was very murky as the glitters were swamped in the black base. Instead of having ruby slippers to click, I feel like I have amethyst tips to ... idk, stare at!

Next, I have an FOTD I did when I was going out that I liked alot. Wish I had recorded a tutorial video to go along with it. By the way, how are you guys liking the youtube channel? Are the vids helpful? Enhance the blog? Let me know! Anyhoo... I was excited about going out because it was part of my plan to 'See and be seen'. You can't meet people and have fun if you don't go out, right? Meh...

(Remember my Nneka Saran purse I got a while back? It's my first time wearing it ...0_o)

My colors of the night were black and gold. For an easy 'glam-night-out' look I pulled out the trusty old Guilt By Association mineralize eyeshadow by MAC that I mentioned in the October Favorites Vid. My other favorite product that I should mention is my L.A. Splash glitter liner in Gold. Love it! Some times you need a little sparkle to set off a look and the glitter liner was to the rescue! I use it in my inner corner, bottom lash line and on my lips! Chunky glitter .... I'm all over it! Fragrance: Gucci Guilty.. it was the black and gold packaging! LOL Nice fragrance, overall.

=( I will start doing my foundation first, lol

Here's a similar outfit to the one I wore that night:

gold and black by yummy411 featuring enamel earrings

Rachel Gilbert mini cocktail dress, $640
Emilio Pucci blazer, $915
Promiscuous pantyhose tight, $32
Supertrash platform booties, €250
Citrine By The Stones gold citrine ring, €77
ASOS metal jewelry, $18
Givenchy enamel earrings, $45
Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss Trio, $40

Now I'm all excited and want to Polyvore some New Year's outfits!!

Green and Blue FOTD and Video Tutorial

2011-11-23T01:44:00.000-05:00

I wanted to do a look not using my regular neutrals; I wanted color. I wanted to use blue to match my nails and green in honor of my friend who loves the color green! She recently got married and green was the color of her special day! Not quite in love with this look, but glad I did it.This gave me a chance to use unused or seldom used products in my stash. This was my first time using Mighty Aphrodite Wonder Woman blush. I got this because it was said to be similar to having Nars Orgasm and MAC's Bite of an Apple blush in one pan. I didn't have either so this was a win for me. Wondergrass wasn't getting any love, but now it should feel a little special, lol. Check out the look!

Products used (All MAC unless stated otherwise):
FACE
NW30 concealer
Medium Dark Studio Careblend Powder
Give Me Sun Mineralize Skinfinish Powder
Black Radiance Pressed Powder in Creamy Beige

EYES
Nubile paint pot
lightest shade (Fire In Her Eyes) in the Smoke and Mirrors smoky eye palette (LE Holiday 2009)
Wondergrass eye shadow
Sea and Sky (deep blue side) mineralize eye shadow
Revlon liquid liner, black
Maybelline Falsies mascara in black
LA Splash green glitter liner

CHEEKS
Mighty Aphrodite (LE Wonder Woman Collection)

LIPS
1N lipglass (LE)

How to Choose a Concealer

2011-11-18T02:16:00.000-05:00

Tips on how to choose a concealer!
1. Decide the coverage you need:
Need a 'wake me up'?
Dark circles?

2. Decide the look you are going for:
Even skin tone under eyes?
Highlighted look a la Kim K?

For just enough coverage and even skin tone under the eyes, choose a concealer close to your skin tone or one to two shades lighter. Too bright? Add a bit of your foundation to mellow the color a bit.
Product recommendations: Maybelline Fit Me Concealer, CoverGirl Queen Collection Concealer, MAC Select Cover Up Concealer or MAC Select Moisturecover Concealer if you have dry skin type or mature skin.

For dark circles and need a bit more coverage, follow steps above for even skin tone under the eyes but use a fuller coverage concealer and/or add a corrector! If needed, on top of your foundation add corrector then concealer. People have different preferences on how and what order to apply concealer and corrector. Just use it! LOL
Product recommendations: Eve Pearl Salmon Concealer, MAC Studio Finish Concealer, Bobbi Brown (peach) Corrector, Victoria Secret Pro Concealer Palette (it includes a peach and green for various correction issues)

For a highlighted look, use a concealer or foundation two shades lighter than your skin tone (and corrector if needed). Apply concealer under the eye from bottom lash line to tops of the cheek bones. BLEND well!! Make a seamless finish between concealer and foundation

To make your concealer last: Look for long wear formulas like MAC's Pro Longwear concealer. Be sure to set your concealer with a translucent powder!

Here's how I apply my concealer (and foundation).
Take it from my sis (but don't highlight your brows as she does please! lol)

My next loc hair goal: Loc Bun

2011-11-09T00:30:00.001-05:00

(photo credit: blackwomennaturalhairstyles.com)

Yup... a regular ol' bun. This one is a touch fancy as it's not spread around from the center. I reached my goal of a ponytail, now I want a bun. I may be done with hair goals after I reach a bun... well I never got my red velvet cake hair.............. hmmmm.

While I have these length goals, I'm pretty partial to locs that are right above the shoulder or at the shoulder length. They are short, but long enough. I think my hair is actually getting a bit long for my style/lifestyle =p I totally understand why alot of women who cut their locs off, keep a short, boy cut.

Here are some cool loc updo's and how-to's from youtube:
TheNaturallYou
Pecadora99
Shawnta715

Black Gloss and Pearls FOTD and video tutorial

2011-11-07T19:43:00.000-05:00

Check out my latest FOTD and YouTube upload of me using my NYC Kiss gloss in Blacula. This came out in the Halloween collection a while ago, but I'm just finally using it!

(Photo: Scrangie.com)

Deets!
FACE
MAC Matchmaster Foundation 5.0
Give Me Sun! MSF
Black Radiance pressed powder in Creamy Beige

EYES
NW30 studio finish concealer

Nubile paint pot to base
Yogurt eye shadow on lid
Tete e tint shadow in crease
Swiss Chocolate shadow to define crease
Dark Edge shadow to further define crease
Guilt by Association on outer v for a little sparkle
A pale shimmery shadow in inner corner
Satin Taupe shadow on bottom lid
Revlon black liquid liner
Maybelline Falsies mascara

CHEEKS
Prism blush

LIPS
NYC Kiss Gloss in Blacula

On to the video tutorial!

14 Tips That May Be Ruining Your Hair

2011-11-04T07:02:00.000-04:00

14 Tips That Are Ruining Your Hair

It's always good to get advice -- unless it's bad advice. See the hair care tips that are actually messing up your mane

This is a TotalBeauty.com hair care article

We get bad advice all the time, whether it's from our stockbrokers or our best friends or our own mothers. But when your hairdresser is doling out bad tips like Halloween candy, it's time to call in the big hitters. We've asked the pros to dish on the hair care tips that are actually ruining your hair. They'll shock you.

See them now

CoverGirl Queen Collection new embassador, Paula Patton

2011-10-31T16:48:00.000-04:00

At an incredible dinner at The Source, an Asian fusion restaurant by the prestigious chef Wolfgang Puck in downtown DC, Cover Girl announced to a bunch of savvy bloggeristas and media divas that Paula Patton was the newest Cover Girl Queen Collection ambassador... and get this, gave us the opportunity to chat with her!

She glowed and beamed with pride! She told us how she was ecstatic to represent the brand, one that offers cosmetics for women of color.

She shared that her routine has shortened because of her little bundle of joy, but getting back into glam mode she uses her Cover Girl to polish her look. Her makeup artist, Fiona Styles, dished via twitter (@fionastiles) that she uses Cover Girl Queen Collection Mineral Bronzer for her fabulous glow. You all know how much I rave about that bronzer, right?

She was also very excited to talk to us about the new products that Cover Girl will be launching early next year: Natural Hue Matte Pressed Powder to keep oilies at bay, Vivid Impact Eyeliner-- metallic, jewel toned goodness and LashFanatic Mascara for incredible lashes.

Me and Paula.. yes she's as pretty, bright and bubbly as you think! ;)

I have a few of the new products to test, so of course I'll let you all know how that goes!

Blast from the Past: Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T07:08:00.002-04:00

Cute Shoes, Large Shoes, New Shoes, For You Shoes!

2011-10-28T12:43:00.000-04:00

Valerie of Just Like a True Star has these awesome shoes in her possession. (This is her picture.)

Blame Kerris for this! Not really. I'm a shoe fanatic; I just don't blog about them and woes to find seriously cute shoes at size 11. After sifting through emails, I happened upon these bowed babies: Jeffrey Campbell Garret Pump at Nordstrom. (Im starting to love my Nordstrom emails as much as Sephora.. well, not quite.) I saw the pair in nude first-- and get this-- in extended sizes!!! Yes, 10,11,12, AND 13! The large and in charge, pump your fist! LOL... Then I saw other cute colors of aqua and red (with contrasting orange) are available too! Now, I haven't seen this in person, but if you wear a large size like I do, you might be skeptical that the shoe isn't made to scale or it looks weird. Let's keep our fingers crossed that they aren't.

Watch Tonight! America's Next Top Model with Ben Bennett

2011-10-26T15:30:00.001-04:00

When: Wednesday 10/26/2011 @ 9:00pm EST... TONIGHT!
What: Our favorite Tyra Banks show with fashion and glam? America's Next Top Model featuring beauty industry mogul, Ben Bennett.
Why you need to watch: Something's huge happening between Ben Bennett (renowned makeup artist and creator/innovator of his own Hatch Beauty and behind brands such as Salma Hayek's new cosmetic line, Gap and Baby Gap amongst other incredible things) and the show. A fabulous challenge awaits involving Ben and an important announcement.

What awaits us?? What will Tyra bring us this week? We'll have to wait and watch. Will you be tunning in? I will. Let's tweet about it! Be sure to follow me @yummy411.

My Jam: Elle Varner "I Only Wanna Give It To You"

2011-10-24T06:39:00.001-04:00

Elle Varner and Orson Whales brings us a fun, colorful, upbeat jam that echos a fashionista's thoughts.. "I want you more than a new pair of shoes!" How about that and that gorgeous head of hair? Love it!

Sephora $25 E-Gift Certificate Winner: Jo Jo!

2011-10-19T16:26:00.003-04:00

The winner of my Sephora $25 E-Gift Certificate is :

Jo Jo

of Jo Jo's Beauty Guide!

Thanks for participating!

Here's the winning set she created with the gorg shoes and purse from my Polyvore set! I love it!

Yummy Fall Obsession by jmolinaro featuring a metal clutch

Paul joe pullover sweater
€259 - jades24.com

Lanvin fitted skirt
£530 - brownsfashion.com

Nicholas Kirkwood high heels
$819 - mytheresa.com

ASOS metal clutch
$31 - asos.com

Proenza Schouler engraved jewelry
$525 - thecorner.com

By Malene Birger belt
huset-shop.com

Mascara
lancome-usa.com

Shu Uemura False Eyelashes Smokey Layers
£13 - liberty.co.uk

BCBGMAXAZRIA Eau de Parfum No Color 1.7 oz
$75 - nordstrom.com

Le Metier De Beaute Fall/Winter Mini Nail Lacquer

$10 - bergdorfgoodman.com

Everything You Need to Know About Aging!

2011-10-14T01:47:00.000-04:00

Everything You Need to Know About Aging

Consider this your one stop shop for all you need to know about anti-aging skin care

This is a TotalBeauty.com anti-aging skin care article

Every day there seems to be another wrinkle or fine line that pops up in the mirror. And while you spend your time agonizing over them and trying to cover them up, have you ever paused to wonder what really causes your wrinkles? Or how to prevent them from cropping up in the first place? We fill you in on all these answers here.

Be informed

Fall Obsessions: Platform Loafers and Envelope Satchels and Purses!..and Give-Away/Contest!

2011-10-13T09:18:00.072-04:00

Recently, Mix Maven from Pumps and Gloss asked me to suggest a shoe of the week for her Friday Footwear series. She styled an outfit around the shoe. That was so much fun and I love the outfit choice she created. Check it out here! I decided to share with you a few more of my obsessions. As you probably guessed from my title, I'm totally in love with platform loafers and envelope styled satchels. These items are totally rocking an Essie Carry On Collection vibe. That collection really speaks to me, but I'm sure it's more about the names of the lacquers! Ha!

Check out some of my selections below:

Platform Loafers by yummy411 featuring stiletto heels

Christian louboutin pumps
$1,995 - bergdorfgoodman.com

Nicholas Kirkwood platform high heels
$950 - saksfifthavenue.com

Nicholas Kirkwood platform high heels
$819 - mytheresa.com

Jill Stuart platform wedge
$595 - shopbop.com

Pour La Victoire stiletto heels
$275 - amazon.com

Platform high heels
$190 - topshop.com

Jeffrey campbell shoes
$166 - oaknyc.com

ALDO platform high heels
$45 - aldoshoes.com

Lauren Conrad high heels
$38 - kohls.com

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN - 140 MM TROTITELLA PONY LEOPARD LOAFERS
€665 - luisaviaroma.com

Envelope Satchels and Purses by yummy411 featuring clutch handbags

Forever21 shoulder strap bag, $28
Rebecca Minkoff clutch handbag, $350
Forever21 clutch handbag, $16
Forever21 antique handbag, $35
Marc by Marc Jacobs bronze clutch, $160
ASOS clutch bag, $31
River Island beige clutch, £30
Rebecca Minkoff metallic handbag, $650
3 1 Phillip Lim shoulder handbag, $595
Kitt, $30

Now here's the fun part! If you have a polyvore, create an outfit around a pair of shoes and purse from my sets above. You have to include at least two cosmetic items; nail polish is included. You can win a $25 Sephora e-gift certificate!

To qualify:
*You have to like my Yummy411 Facebook Page
*Follow this blog via google friend connect or email subscription.

Leave a comment on this post telling me:
*Who you are on FB
* and leave a link to your set that you created on polyvore.
Winner will be announced Monday, October 17th.
**If you check my FB page (and 'Like' it), you'll see that something else is going on! I look forward to your entries! ;) **

These are a few of my favorite things (October 2011)

2011-10-11T00:18:00.000-04:00

I made a video of a few of the products I used all of September and have become my favorite things of October. Check them out!

The MAC Fall Colour Collection's Dirty Little Secret

2011-10-07T01:00:00.001-04:00

Have you seen Nikkia's (Silverlipsbeauty.com) recent post on MAC's Fall Colour Collection? She shows us all of the products that MAC has repromoted for the collection. Beware, it's almost the entire collection! However, I still went into the store to check it out, asking the MUA for recommendations (or what was left 1 week post release *smirk*). While some things are repromoted, I don't own all of the items... that would include C-thru lipglass. C-thru and I weren't really friends during my makeup journey because I thought the color was too pale, pastey and not up my alley.

Its been a while since I've been on this makeup journey and I've learned to appreciate all types of nudes. C-thru striked my fancy a bit this go 'round. The MUA told me a little dirty) secret that was well worth me going into the store checking out the repromotes. The new C-thru batch isn't quite like the old one. It's more sheer! She shared that people who were in love with the original formula of C-thru have been returning the new one saying it isn't the same. Aha! Bad for them, great for me! I hope they keep this new formula. I'm personally in love with it! It almost reminds me of a better version of NYX's Sugar Pie, nude and milky, striking a great balance between pigmented and sheer for a gorg glaze topping for a lip.

Below- me wearing the new C-thru launched with the MAC Fall Colour Collection. I applied a good amount, but it's not as opaque as the original C-thru.

What did you get from the collection? Did you notice a difference with the new C-thru?
Items I might return for (if available): Plum Bright and Show Orchid lipsticks (nope don't have SO!), Emerald Dusk pigment, Blue Candy eye shadow

Two Products that gave me 'Babyassface.com'

2011-10-07T00:06:00.000-04:00

Once upon a time there was a funny blog that I ready often called Babyassface.com. As soon as I used these two products (followed by my daily face moisturizer) I thought, "Babyassface.com! This is what she meant all along!" Smooth, supple, soft, plump (my face that is, not a baby's bottom) all courtesy of some new products my skin craved!

Check out the products that I've been using and loving!

The Microdelivery Exfoliating Body Wash ($25) 16oz.[used on my face only] is designed to cleanse and gently exfoliate the body, as it moisturizes and conditions for smooth, soft, healthy-looking skin:

cleanses and gently, evenly exfoliates the body
resurfaces to reveal soft, smooth, healthy-looking skin
helps moisturize with a unique blend of natural oils and botanicals

Ingredients:water⁄aqua⁄eau, polylactic acid, glycerin, lauryl betaine, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, acrylates copolymer, stearyl olivate, shea butter glycerides, tocopheryl acetate, hydrolyzed jojoba esters, jojoba esters, sesamum indicum (sesame) seed oil, macadamia integrifolia seed oil, helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil, hydroxyethylcellulose, olea europaea (olive) fruit oil, limnanthes alba (meadowfoam) seed oil, decyl glucoside, zea mays (corn) oil, juniperus mexicana oil, citrus medica limonum (lemon) peel oil, alcohol (alcohol denat.), sodium methyl cocoyl taurate, benzyl alcohol, disodium edta, sodium hydroxide, citric acid, limonene, linalool, methylchloroisothiazolinone, methylisothiazolinone.--from Philosophy.com

Vita 02 Hydra Refining Mist ($38) 4oz. Part toner, part hydrator and pore-refiner. This soothing toner helps remove excess residue, tighten pores and provides on-demand moisture. Reduces fatigue and irritation from daily exposure to environmental pollutants. A must have for frequent fliers and post peels! Hypo-allergenic. Non-comedogenic. FORMULATED WITHOUT: - Preservatives - Parabens - Sulfates - Propylene Glycol - Synthetic Fragrances - Synthetic Dyes - Petro-Chemicals - GMOs - Phthalates

Ingredients: Minimum 50% - Certified Organic Actives Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Purified Water, Vegetable Glycerin, Certified Organic Salix Alba Bark Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract, Certified Organic Rose Hip (Rosa Affinis Rubiginosa)Oil, Certified Organic Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Certified Organic Chamomile Extract (Matricaria Recutita), Certified Organic Echinacea Extract, Certified Organic Green Tea (Camellia Sinesis) Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate (Sodium Hyaluronate), Sodium PCA, Swiss Mountain Water, Saccharomyces Lysate Extract Glucose, Sodium PCA, Organic Buddleja Davidii Extract, Certified Organic Thymus Vulgaris Extract, Polysorbate-20, Sorbic Acid, Lactoperoxidase, Glucose Oxidase, Lecithin.

Have you tried either of these items? What do you think of them?

Spotted: Rihanna "We Found Love" video style

2011-09-29T00:12:00.002-04:00

The kid sis (or Teen Yummy411) has been geeking over some "Creepers" yes the emo, Frankenstein, goth shoes. Now, I think I know why. Exhibit A ---the above picture of Rihanna; a still of her on set for her "We Found Love" video. I guess the shoes were trending before the pics surfaced.

Red lips makes anything hot, perhaps?

Throwback: Circa May 2009

2011-09-28T23:55:00.003-04:00

I came across these pics that I don't think I've ever posted. I'm into neutrals and shimmery ones too. I like my hair this length!

What was I doing?
I believe I was getting ready for The Makeup Show NY 2009.

How have I changed?
I see that I still had brows =( I miss them. I thought that my brow tech gave me my perfect brows, but I can see the problems I have with my brows now, I actually had back them.. Sorry.. that's me being anal. Where's the color in my hair?

Cosmetic loves?
Spring season: Orange nails and peachy gloss FTW!

Do you remember yourself two years ago? How have you changed? What didn't?

Demi Lavato on Lil Wayne's How To Love

2011-09-21T01:02:00.005-04:00

Seriously, I love me some Disney (the talent that they find and nurture)! Demi is fab! She rocks this song! I've found new respect for her and the song!

Check out some more pics she tweeted from the photoshoot for her new album, Unbroken, released today!

A deep, vamp, soft look! Look who's on board giving Demi that oh-so-fab contoured, vamp lip-- it's Joyce Bonelli!! This makes me totally excited for her album and watching her recreate her image after her Disney sabbatical.

Most anticipated polish collection: OPI The Muppets Collection Holiday 2011

2011-09-20T23:42:00.004-04:00

(Image source)

Look at that awesomeness! I'm lemming the Rainbow Connection! I'm so excited about this collection. I'm hoping to wear Rainbow Connection to view the movie.
Head over to Krissy's page for information about the OPI The Muppet Collection.
Look for the collection in stores in November!

TAG: Beauty This or That?!

2011-09-15T22:40:00.013-04:00

Image Source)

Thanks Ms. Chrys @ Married2Makeup for the tag!

Be reminded that these are my preferences IF I ever had to choose!

BLUSH or BRONZER?
BRONZER- Bronzer can be used as a blush and warms up your whole face!

LIPSTICK or LIP GLOSS?
LIPSTICK- There is a wide variety of the types of lipstick you can buy, stain your lips with a lipstick, sheer it down...lots of possibilies... There's more versatility here!

EYELINER or MASCARA?
MASCARA- Defining my lashes is more important to me than the liner (and y'all know that I LOVE me some liner!) In a pinch with the right tools, you can use mascara as liner!

FOUNDATION or CONCEALER?
CONCEALER- Actually they can be the same thing, but for all intents and purposes, I'm anal about my eyes and the places I conceal. I'll take the concealer!

NEUTRAL or COLOR EYESHADOW?
NEUTRAL- "At the end of the day" (lol) I can amp up some neutrals or tone them down, they match with any and everything and they are work appropriate!

LOOSE or PRESSED EYESHADOW?
PRESSED- Convenience factor.... if I want the color more concentrated, I can scrape some into a powder form and pack the color in!

BRUSHES or SPONGES?
BRUSHES- They haven't made a good blending eye shadow sponge, so I'll take brushes!

I tag.....
Brown Girlz Rock
Khadine
SatsukiMUA
Melody
Jamie (Rural Glamour)
Bicky (Tastes Like Glitter)
Kadian (Ace Your Face)
Donna Shae (LoveLiveLifeGlam)
Ms. Viva Glam
Makeup4Play
....you're it!!!

KJ Bennett dispels makeup myths on Makeup411.com

2011-09-14T01:14:00.003-04:00

(image: Makeup411.com)

Kevin James Bennett, affectionately known as "Blenderella" is an award winning makeup artist and educator. I love his energy, his wisdom and his work!

Check out his latest article over on Makeup411.com where he dispels makeup myths like how to get your perfect foundation match and the truth about mineral makeup and more! Does that interest you? This is only Part 1! Go find out the good news! ;)

KJB on Make-Up Myths on Makeup411.com

My last loc updo! (August 2011)

2011-09-14T00:01:00.002-04:00

Can you see the back? It was two rolls, rolled into one for a 'mohawk-ish-pompador-look'. I tried a new stylist this time. The same one my sister goes to. I asked her to make the two rolls touch, but I think our communication broke down some where. Either way I still enjoyed the look. The stylist took about an hour to do my hair; root maintenance included! No clips, no drying time and a style?! I was in heaven! I got really used to having my hair up. Can't wait to get another style!

Lately, I've been really inspired by victory rolls. I made victory rolls in my hair when I had the bodacious curls, but I couldn't get them to stay up. I want to try them again, but that was a hair do for when my curls got old. Just wanted to show the style!

New Youtube Video: Winged (gel/liquid) Liner Tutorial!

2011-09-13T01:16:00.002-04:00

Have you seen my new Liner Tutorial on YouTube. Check it out! I use gel liner with an angled brush. It's easy as 1,2,3... with practice! ;) Tailor the liner to fit your taste.

Go Mommy Go! Jess' Quick Fresh Face Video Tutorial

2011-08-31T14:08:00.004-04:00

My sister Jess has been looking refreshed and polished lately. I can even tell behind her glasses! I've been impressed. She used to come to me telling me she wanted a glow to her face (think bronzer lotion heavily applied on oily skin) or needed help with an easy, quick polished look. After a few trials with her and a few products later, I think she's gotten into a routine that works for her.

Jess has two kids, an almost 6 year old and 10 month old. Whatever, she's doing she's doing it at the speed of lightening with 5 other things going on. Good job, Jess! I asked her to make a video for my youtube channel, showing us how she does her quick look!

So there you have it. We still have a few things to go over, which I know we will. Thanks Jess for sharing!

Kim Kardashian Makeup Looks

2011-08-30T02:04:00.002-04:00

Kim Kardashian's "Regal" Makeup -- Love It?

Did you love or hate Kim K's smoky wedding makeup? Weigh in now

This is a TotalBeauty.com wedding makeup article

With all the comparisons between the reality star's wedding and the royal one in the UK, the question must be asked: Did you think her wedding makeup was "regal"? See Kim K's other makeup looks and tell us which one's your favorite.

See looks

Season 13 of Dancing with the Stars Cast Announced!

2011-08-30T01:36:00.003-04:00

Are you a DWTS fan like I am? Monday nights, I tweet like crazy #DWTS hahaha! Dance skills, popularity and killer costumes and makeup! This season seems that it will be more exciting than the last! What a round up! They have a team player for everyone!

Rob Kardashian (He needs help. Playboy isn't calling him, no real contribution to the Kardashian empire...do DWTS! Would he look better with a smokey eye and Herve Leger dress? But seriously, why doesn't he start the men's line/store for Dash??? Come on... Chris didn't think of that???)

Nancy Grace (The court shows come to dancing prime time tv!)

Kristin Cavallari (The Hills, eh.. Reality TV star, check.)

Ricki Lake (Ohh me and Ricks go back! Messy talk shows, weight loss, kids, Charmed School. I might be rooting for her this season!)

Ron Artest (Minority athlete, check.)

David Arquette (Smeh, I can't call it. Another star needing help to reignite their career after messy divorce?)

Chynna Phillips (I totally dig and respect her......)

Carson Kressley (Gay community spokesperson... check. Seriously, my vote is tied between him and Ricki!)

J.R. Martinez (Injured veteran, heart strings on the railroad tracks... check.)

Elisabetta Canalis (Who? Oh George Clooney fame... and uh Italian actress.)

Chaz Bono (Transgendered community spokesperson... check. Let's see him dance like a man!)

Will you be tuned in?? So I may root for Ricki or Carson or whomever is Lacey's partner. She's my favorite pro dancer!

Beyonce is preggers!

2011-08-30T00:57:00.004-04:00

Because I'm a Bey stan and because.......... I'm going to be an auntie again!!! The kid, Julez and the rest of the boys are excited about the new baby and we all can't wait to figure out if we will be welcoming our first diva or have added yet another boy to our football team!

On Sunday night during the VMA's while Mrs. Carter was performing one of her songs from her latest album, "Love on Top" in her dazzled blazer (MJ tribute outfit and choreography) she confirmed that she was expecting.

So EX-CI-TED. Yes, this means more to me than the dang Royal Wedding!

I'm featured on Nouveau Cheap!

2011-08-25T23:58:00.005-04:00

I'm so excited that one of my favorite bloggers, G. of Neouveau Cheap wanted to feature me on her blog! I know most of you all are familiar with her blog, but if you haven't had the fortune to be introduced or visit her blog, she does the best in bringing us bargain values in cosmetics with awesome reviews! Check out my interview with her over at her blog: Interview on Nouveau Cheap. Love ya, G.!

NARS revamps their concealer!

2011-08-25T18:55:00.006-04:00

Makeup! Orgasm... blush! LOVE! ( I remember saying LOVE to describe things that I wanted to equate to being orgasmic or like "love" on the beach, Eureka!) While I decided to use the more comfortable and more accurate LOVE, Nars makes the other sayings appropriate. There's a blush called Orgasm for goodness sakes!

I had a love or makeup orgasm moment when I saw that on September 1st, Nars Cosmetics would be releasing their new, revamped concealers. I'm a foundation and blush whore, but a concealer fiend as well. This news has me anxiously awaiting September 1st. Check out the news below!

NARS is giving a face lift to its Concealer! Along with a new slim packaging, the formula has grown its range from six to ten shades in order to reach a broader scope of skin tones. All shades boast the same lightweight, creamy texture, enriched with Vitamin E for crease-resistant coverage that stays in place all day.

• Chantilly – for fairest of complexions, true ivory (NEW!)

• Vanilla – for fair complexions, tiny cast of pink tones

• Honey – for light to medium complexion, warm peach tones

• Custard – for light to medium complexions, yellow tones

• Ginger – for medium complexions, golden tones

• Biscuit – for medium to dark complexions, natural balance of pink and yellow tones (NEW!)

• Caramel – for medium to dark complexions, yellow and golden tones (NEW!)

• Amande – for medium to dark complexions, golden olive tones (NEW!)

• Café – for dark complexions, warm red tones (NEW!)

• Cacao – for dark complexions, deep-gold-brown tones (NEW!)

Narscosmetics.com, ($22)

Are you as excited as I am???

Eyebrow Makeover!

2011-08-25T00:18:00.007-04:00

I was asked by a friend about brows. She has naturally thick brows, but after years of getting them done she has been reduced to very slim brows. I gave her a brow makeover. Unfortunately, I think when people see the routine I do to achieve a brow my style, it seems daunting. I can understand, but I guess that's the difference between brows and great looking brows! It just takes a bit of practice.
Brow on the left is the before and the right brow is after.
Both brows done! No tweezing or anything, just worked with what she had. Achieving the highest level of symmetry is always the goal, but that doesn't always happen. Remember the brows are sisters, not twins! ;)

I used pretty much the same method and products I used in my Brow Video Tutorial.

*My friend didn't like these photos, but they showed her brows the best. Sorry friend! =s

All of My Purple Life FOTD and Video Tutorial

2011-08-21T13:17:00.007-04:00

I made a tutorial video based around MAC Afrobella's All of My Purple Life lipglass in honor of Afrobella. She's an awesome blogger. I love her to pieces and I haven't met her in person yet!

Check out the video and tell me what you think! Oh! please don't be turned away too fast. The vid really isn't 18 mins. It's about 13 (I forgot to trim it down to the correct time!)

FACE:
Chanel Mat Lumier in Soft Honey
MAC Careblend powders in Medium Dark and (bronzer) Gold Go Lightly
MAC Studiofinish Concealer in NW30

EYES:
MAC paint pot in Layin Low (base)
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Shadow Pencil in Morphine (lid)
MAC Saddle eye shadow (crease)
MAC Dark Edge eye shadow (outer v) Smoke and Mirrors Holiday Palette '09 LE
MAC Fire in Her Eyes eye shadow (tear duct) Smoke and Mirrors Holiday Palette '09 LE
Revlon liquid liner in black (lid, wing, lower lash line)
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide On eye liner in Covet (water line)
LA Splash glitter liner in green (lower lash line)
MAC Lashes #44

CHEEKS
Get Away Bronze Blush, MAC To the Beach Collection 2010 LE
NARS Multiple in Lamu (Summer Collection 2010)

LIPS
MAC Up the Amp lipstick
MAC Afrobella All of My Purple Life lipglass

Naturally Fabulous! Check out my sister's hair!

2011-08-15T22:41:00.004-04:00

Mhmm, my sister was inspired by me when she got her new hair do, hehe.

Let's see how long you've been a reader... which sister is this? ;)

Check it out!

I call this the french roll/mohawk look. My sister Jess started by dying the top of her head blond. Now she has kind of the tri-color thing going on. Dark brown at the base/bottom, her deepened red... Remember her 'inspired by Rihanna red'? And now the blond. I love it! Rolled it up from bottom to top and secured with hair pins, the 'do is the total hip accessory to any outfit/look!

TAG: Desert Island Lips

2011-08-11T23:33:00.010-04:00

"If you could only have one lipstick or gloss for the rest of your life what would it be?"

This is a TAG:

You are going to be cast away on a desert island, but you must maintain your fabulousness. The trick is, it can only be a lip product. What ONE lip colour could you happily live with for the rest of your days? This isn’t about your favourite or what’s haute at the moment. It should be something that doesn’t require lip liner or mixing with some other colour to make it look good. This should be a colour that you don’t have to think twice about because you know it will never fail to make you look flirty, bold or seductive every time you wear it. What would it be?

Here are the rules:

Choose your Desert Island Lip colour (lipstick, stain, lip pencil, OR gloss). Only one, please
Tell us why you’ve picked it (what makes it special, timeless, or the bomb)
Post a photo of yourself wearing the lipstick . The photo should be your full face
*You may only use these other types of products in your photo:
1. Foundation/concealer/powder
2. Groomed brows
3. Mascara
4. Desert Island Lip product
5. Tag 3 other beauty bloggers

*No paintpots, eyeshadows, eyeliner, blush, contour, highlighters or additional lip liners. Just K.I.S.S ).

My desert island pick is: MAC VIVA GLAM V LIPGLASS!

Colour: MAC calls it a neutral pink with pearl, but I would say it's a browned neutral pink with pearl. A fleshy neutral on me.

Why: A couple of reasons-- Viva Glam V was my first MAC love after Oh Baby! lipglass, it's part of the VIVA GLAM program, I'm a nude lip girl at heart, but this bit of pearl and a flesh toned lip product does my face and skin tone well... besides, it can be pretty universal!

Here’s who I’m tagging:

Noire Tropical

Style and Beauty Doctor

Thanks Ace Your Face UK for tagging me chica! ;)

First Makeup Tutorial: Nikkia's Simple Smokey Eye FOTD feat. MAC Constructivist Paint Pot

2011-08-10T23:43:00.004-04:00

Here's a simple smoky eye fotd that's perfect for beginners or people that want to achieve a look in a quick 10 minutes! Nikkia of Silver Lips Beauty suggested the smoky eye as a way for me to get use out of my untouched, but awesome Constructivist paint pot.

Take a look at my vid, products are listed below!

FACE:
Chanel Mat Lumiere Foundation in Soft Honey
MAC Studio Careblend powders in Medium Dark and Gold Go Lightly (Surf Baby Collection)

EYES:
MAC Constructivist paint pot on lid
MAC Saddle eye shadow in crease
Urban Decays black and brown liners in Zero and Whiskey
MAC Zoomlash mascara
Random light shade in my inner corner

CHEEKS:
Black Radiance pressed powder in Cream Beige
Milani Baked blush in Fantastico Mauve

LIPS:
NYX Fire lipstick
NYX Plum liner

Jc Penny set to open a Sephora!

2011-08-10T08:03:00.001-04:00

FORESTVILLE, MD (USA) Sephora in JC Penny will have its grand opening August 12th! Will you be there? I will!

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.8

Beyonce Covers Bazaar UK

2011-08-06T19:03:00.001-04:00

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.8

New Video: Updated Brow Tutorial!

2011-08-05T00:05:00.003-04:00

Hi loves!
I filmed an (updated) brow tutorial by request! My original post was here. See how much has changed! ;)

List of products used:
(Tools)
MAC #266 angled brush
Anastasia spoolie and angled brush duo

(Products)
MAC Cork eye shadow
MAC Lingering and Strut brow pencils
MAC Boy Girl brow set
MAC NW25 Studio Finish concealer

Use colors and concealers/foundations that are compatible with your skin tone. Use tools that you are comfortable with though I highly recommend MAC's #266 for brow work!

Nikkia's DIY Brow Set Tutorial Post

New Video: Products I'm Loving Right Now

2011-07-31T23:54:00.001-04:00

12 Best Drugstore Mascaras

2011-07-28T23:40:00.001-04:00

12 Best Drugstore Mascaras

Become a believer in the drugstore beauty aisle with these cheapies but goodies

This is a TotalBeauty.com budget products article

While there is some merit to the saying, "You get what you pay for," we guarantee these products will make you think twice. Get more bang for your buck with these drugstore mascaras that readers rave are comparable -- if not better than -- the high-end, department store brands.

Get reviews

No. 12: Rimmel London Lycra Lash Extender Mascara, $7.29

TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.4

"This mascara gets every tiny lash then lengthens it, plumps it and darkens it until both eyes are equal."

No. 11: L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara, $7.49

TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 8.4

"It makes my lashes look amazing. I get asked daily if I'm wearing fake lashes."

No. 10: Almay One Coat Nourishing Mascara Lengthening, $5.99

TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 8.5

"I have stuck with this mascara for 12 years, and have not found any better -- even in the higher priced varieties."

Want to see what other products made the list? Click here!

New Video: Maybelline Popsicle Shine Lipstick in Citrus Slice

2011-07-27T00:46:00.002-04:00

I spotted these the other day in my neck of the woods. I wanted to review them for you! Are you all subscribed to my YouTube Channel?? SUBSCRIBE NOW!

I'm doing my best guys keeping up with the YouTube Challenge. I hope you guys are hanging in there as well with me!

Tell me what you think of the new lipsticks??

Kinda feeling like a rockstar....

2011-07-27T00:21:00.003-04:00

The August issue of Glamour highlights some of our favorite fashion bloggers. Since I'm mainly beauty I didn't recognize them all right away, but I def knew Gabi Fresh of the Young, Fat and Fabulous fame! She's rocking my bucket bag purse!

My dad brings me old girlie mags that he get while at work... This time, he scored a good one with Gaga on the front of May's issue of Harper's Bazaar. I got a closer look at her nails inside. Don't those nails look familiar?? I know lots of people aren't feeling that look on the nails, but...

Kinda feeling like a rockstar right now... hehe

June Bride: Travelle

2011-07-21T23:23:00.004-04:00

How gorgeous is she? Ahh, so honored to be part of her big day. Congrats Travelle and Zachary! See more of the gorgeous wedding shots by the talented photographer, Marlene Lillian.

Mobile Uploads: My new braid out, loc do!

2011-07-21T00:08:00.006-04:00

Thanks Jess for hooking me up!
Jessica (my sister) simply braided my hair up into chunkier braids using 3 locs each when doing regular maintenance. She secured the ends with rubber bands and I wore the braids for a day to let them air dry. I took them out and voila! There you have it!

Check out my video where I'm wearing this hair style as well as discuss my favorite brushes right now!

Mobile Uploads: Forestville, MD... Guess who's your new neighbor?

2011-07-21T00:04:00.002-04:00

Oh Walgreens! How I love thee! Let me count the ways!

Mobile Uploads: New in my drugstore

2011-07-20T23:53:00.004-04:00

Your favorite Maybelline lipsticks now come in a Popsicle Shine finish!

A new Sally Hansen limited edition designer collection. Or is it not so new since we see the display is 75% empty?!
Ooooh new L'Oreal Color Riche leGloss!
More Sally Hansen nails colors...Fast Dry formula!

These kind of signs always intrigue me! Are you anticipating a new mascara from Maybelline??