i am the glitter ninja.

 

Summer Lovin'

This is my new go-to look for summer.  What are your faves?

1.  Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer - Illuminating

The illuminating formula is fantastic, especially for dry and/or mature skin.  I'm someone who likes a little 'glow'.

For my taste, this does not have either enough moisturizer or enough coverage on it's own; I use a light moisturizer first, then concealer as appropriate, then finish with the Laura Mercier.  Preferred applicator is the trusty Beauty Blender.

http://sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P214216&categoryId=B70

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2.  Buxom Stay-There Shadow in Cocker Spaniel

I thought, there is no way I need another eyeshadow, but this has a beautiful creamy/powdery consistency and really stays put.  A great range of shades but I find Cocker Spaniel (the pink one) to be neutral but brightening.  Great on its own with a little eyeliner (I've long been a fan of MAC's Buried Treasure for a soft black).

http://sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P214216&categoryId=B70

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3.  MAC Creamsheen in Richer, Lusher

Coral is a nice change of pace for those used to bright lipsticks all winter, but also nice for those wanting a little color without being too done.  The Creamsheen formula is brilliant because it's not sticky at all and the color is subtle.

http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/shaded/166/4384/Cremesheen-Glass/index.tmpl

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Add a little bronzer as necessary - NARS The Multiple is great for the creamy consistency - and you are good to go.

Posted May 30, 2011
 

Mascara Quest

Like most of you, I've been on a quest since probably the age of 13 for the perfect mascara.

As an artist having worked retail and commercial side, I recognize that it's the most personal thing to someone because one size absolutely does not fit all.  It's also different to apply mascara on yourself than others, so what I have in my kit is not what I like for me.  The difference between your needs for thickening or lengthening; how dense or natural you like it, needs for a small brush or not...

For my vote, (my needs are volume and I like them quite dramatic without being dense or "stuck together") after a many goes I still come back to CoverGirl LashBlast http://tinyurl.com/393y9rr

In the last year I've used MAC, Tarte, Urban Decay, LashFusion, Buxom, Lancome, Too Faced, Benefit, and am just never as satisfied.  The caveats?  I had a little sample of CHANEL's Inimitable and loved it, but haven't tried the full thing.  And I still haven't tried Dior Show, which is supposed to be spot on, but I have a hard time justifying $25 for a tube of mascara somehow. (Probably why I haven't picked up the tube of Chanel yet).

Whatever your flavor, remember to keep the gaps between your lashes filled with an eye pencil, just a little smudge, to add to the overall fullness of the lash.  And always curl the lash before applying mascara, otherwise it can weaken the lash and also create a severe 'bend' instead of a curl.

What are your faves?  Add them to the comments.

 

Posted January 2, 2011
 

Shiny Happy Lashes

My latest shoot with the fabulous model and style maven Carrie Mitchell - her blog here: http://stylegroove.blogspot.com/

A quick lesson in lashes to compliment this post.  In person, these lashes are feather-like and enormous, so a little intimidating at first, but don't shy away from some of the more unique lashes that are out there.  Bu the time the rest of the look is done, a beautiful lash can really add that extra something for a party or New Years Eve festivities.

When applying, do liner before AND after.  Before, because you want to cover as close to the natural lash line so there are no gaps between.  

Curl your lashes - but don't put on mascara yet.  Put on eyeshadow.  If you do it after the lash, the lashes get coated with the eyeshadow.

Measure the lashes against your eye and trim the inner corner if necessary.  

Apply a thin line of glue (I use Duo) with a small brush or even toothpick - not directly from the tube.  Wave it in the air a bit to make it tacky and sticky.  Press it right on the lashline.  Let it dry.  Go back in with a clean brush if the glue sticks on the outer corner.

Now go back over it to smooth out the eyeliner with an eyeliner brush and cream liner (see liquid liner post).

Last, apply a bit of mascara on the natural lash to "press" your lashes into the faux ones.

Ta da!!!
(download)

 

Posted December 14, 2010
 

holiday travel go-to

I'm a sucker for anything in a set, but have to give props to the NARS compacts.  I picked up a 15th Anniversary palette and it's fantastic for travel - any of their combos are perfect for a range of looks and easy to tuck into your carry-on.  Neutral eyeshadow shades for bopping around town and family gatherings, with darker smoky shades and a bright lipstick for parties and New Years Eve.  

And, how great would it be to have in your handbag for day to day?  Come on, everyone feels better with a little brightening at 5pm, even if it's just to head home from work and feel smugly better than your co-commuters.

www.narscosmetics.com
under 'gifts'
and free shipping over $25.  way better than dealing with traffic!
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Posted December 7, 2010
 

the mystery of liquid liner

I have heard the most fear from women when it comes to the thought of applying liquid liner.  The secret:  don't use liquid, at least not at first.

A gel or cream based liner (readily available from drugstore brands on up) with an eyeliner brush is the best place to start.  This gives you the sharpness of a liquid but with more control over the product..

1.  Twirl the brush (I like MAC #209) in the container until the brush not only has sufficient product, but so the tip is sharp.
2.  Hold the outer lid taut with your opposite hand - cannot stress how important this is so you achieve a smooth line.
3.  Start on the inner corner of the lid, working your way out.  Use small strokes and get as close to the lash line as possible - there should be no spots without it.  You can go back later to fill this in if you need to.
4.  As you reach the outer corner, slightly lift the brush up to create a subtle wing, or go wild and lift sharply and build a thicker wing for more drama.

The beauty of a cream/gel is that you can build this and smooth it out by going back over the line.  As you improve, experiment with the thickness - thin on the inner corner and wider as it goes out.  

Beautiful bride Monica Marazini (photography: Nina Lilly)

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Posted December 6, 2010