smooth like butta

Project Runway All Stars!!

2012-01-19T13:39:00.001-06:00

A great face and a fierce walk to match.

Hello, fashion lovers... Project Runway is back! This is the all star season, where fan favorites from previous years return to compete against each other for the biggest pize package in the history of the show. Keep an eye on this familiar face, Tatjana, as she models for Anthony Williams. I loved his style during his season 7 appearance on the show. I was also a huge fan of Seth Aaron's designs, and he truly deserved to win the top prize that year. I'm glad to see that Anthony is back for a second chance and I'm sure he will go far in this competition, especially with such a talented model wearing his designs. Tatjana is the only model from last season who got booked to return to Project Runway again! The competition is going to be tough (Mondo is back!!) but I'm looking forward to watching all of the drama unfold.

Thanks to Face/Off (syfy), Drag Race (Logo), and the return of Absolutely Fabulous (BBC) I'm getting my makeup and fashion fixes on an almost daily basis.
I honestly wanted to throw the television out of the window after seeing my favorite NFL team get eliminated from the playoffs. Now my dvr is working overtime and I am in TV heaven.

photographer: Tony Veloz
beauty: me

Ahava is saving my winter skin

2012-01-13T11:20:00.000-06:00

It's winter and my skin is itchy and dry again. I keep my face and hands hydrated morning and night, but my Ahava Dry Oil Mist has been my savior for the spots that I cannot reach. Have you ever tried to lotion your own back? Unless you are an octopus or have freakishly long arms, it's much easier to just point this bottle and spray.
Ahava products almost always contain dead sea salts and algae as key ingredients for their powerful antioxidant properties. The Dry Oil Mist is loaded with these antioxidants and vitamin E to strengthen the skin against free radicals, moisture loss, and premature aging. I really like the mandarin and cedar oil fragrance (The Dude thinks it smells great too), but it is very soft and not overpowering. I actually wish the scent lasted a bit longer throughout the day, but my skin still feels soft long after the scent has faded.
I originally bought the mist to combat the dry skin on my back and shoulders, and now I'm finding new uses for it. After shaving and exfoliating my legs, I apply shea butter and spray the oil over that. The two moisturizers work synergistically to lock in hydration without leaving an oily residue on my legs. This spray is well worth the 38 dollar price tag, and I will definitely be recommending this to friends and family. You can find it at Ulta stores or order online from the Ahava website.

something new

2012-01-04T16:14:00.000-06:00

Chill out... it's totally faux.

Jenna is up-and-coming, and has a great future in modeling ahead of her. She's also FULL of energy and extremely funny, which is awesome.

Some people will say models shouldn't talk, but I like it when I'm working with a model and have to say, "Girl, sit still and quit making me laugh."

This was my last shoot of 2011, so I'm glad the year ended on an extremely high note!

photographer: Luis Aragon
hair/makeup: me

New Year, New Adventures

2012-01-04T16:13:00.000-06:00

Welcome to 2012.

I began last year with a handful of goals, and surpassed them beyond my wildest dreams.
New clients came my way. I worked with some fantastic photographers and talented models. I finally decided to fully embrace social media (except Tumblr - still working on that one), and while doing so, made contact with some amazing creative professionals from all over the world.
The metaphorical "cherry on top" of 2011 came in November, when I was selected by The Powder Group as the recipient of the Kelly Gleason Scholarship For Makeup Arts. Almost two months have passed and I'm still over the moon. Reality is setting in, and now I also realize that I have to leave my family, my dog, and my memory foam mattress behind. It is absolutely worth it, because I know that I have a once in a lifetime chance to exponentially increase my knowledge of this craft that I love so much.

Right now I feel like the sky is the limit. In 2012 I will improve my self and my skills, and I promise to pay it forward!
Whatever your plans are for this year, I wish you all success.

my #makeupmonday list, Part One

2011-12-05T14:36:00.000-06:00

I never thought I would ever say this... but I actually do like Twitter. In fact, I kind of love it. Twitter contains a wealth of information if you are someone who works in (or aspires to be in) the world of hair, makeup, and fashion. My Twitter feed is full of makeup artists and fashion writers from around the world. Online boutiques that specialize in supplying skin care and makeup professionals also have major presence in social media. Some of them feature product giveaways or special discounts that I would have completely missed out on if I weren't reading their tweets.

I'm going to be compiling a list of my personal favorite Tweeters over the next few weeks. Here are a few accounts that all my fellow beauty junkies and slaves to the industry should be following:

The Supplies
Many of the premium quality professional brands are using Twitter. Skin care companies have announced new products via Twitter, so it can be a useful tool when trying to find that perfect potion for your kit.

makeup

@MakeupForeverUS
@NARSissist
@CoverFX
@FaceAtelier
@OCCmakeup
@Temptu

tools

@Sigma_Beauty
@RoyalLangnickel
@BeautyBlender

skin care

@KateSomerville
@Skinceuticals

shopping

@CRCmakeup
@CinemaSecrets

The Teachers
There are educational opportunities available for professionals working in all aspects of the beauty industry. Seminars, workshops, and trade shows happen year-round on all corners of the planet, and you can learn more about them by closely watching the following tweets. Also look for words of advice and inspiration from these award-winning artists and educators with years of experience.

seminars

@TheArtistLabs
@ThePowderGroup
@ElevateArtists

beauty gurus

@JVincentMakeup
@KJBennettBeauty
@JenJamesBeauty

trade shows

@ABSupdates
@TheMakeupShow

Stay tuned, because I will be adding more to the list periodically over the next few weeks. Feel free to make suggestions!

a quote for today...

2011-11-04T12:05:00.001-05:00

"If you don't wear lipstick, I can't talk to you."
- Isabella Blow

birthday brows from Benefit

2011-10-06T12:02:00.001-05:00

Did you know that Benefit offers a Happy Birthday Brow service??? Apparently I am totally out of the loop, because I just learned about this last month. For my thirty-somethingth birthday last week, I took a trip to the Benefit Brow Bar at Ulta Beauty in Rockville, Maryland.

Therese is the brow guru there, and she gave me the perfect arch that I have been needing. I rarely trust people with my brows. She actually asks her clients for input on their brow shape before she just digs in, and I happen to prefer something more angular to frame my round face. Whether you like a waxing or precision tweezing, this is a great way to give yourself that quick birthday beauty treatment before you hit the parties with your BFFs.

Even though most of their stores do carry Benefit Cosmetics, not every Ulta location has a Benefit Brow Bar. Make sure that you call ahead to ask and make an appointment. Also, leave a nice TIP for your brow guru. Yeah, the service is free, but that doesn't mean you should be ungrateful to someone for doing a fabulous job!!

Kinerase - Buy One, Get One 50% Off!!!

2011-09-18T12:44:00.001-05:00

Kinerase, one of the world's leading dermatological skin care brands, is having ONE DAY ONLY event. All Ulta stores nationwide are offering BOGO 50%, free gift with purchase, AND deluxe sized samples.

Are you wondering what to buy? All skin types can benefit from the Hydraboost serum. One of my personal favorites is the Photofacials Exfoliating Cleanser, which is fantastic for anyone who experiences hyperpigmentation or sun damage. People who are looking to brighten and even their skin tone will see clinically proven results within 8 weeks.

If you haven't tried Kinerase before, today is the day!!!

my latest bronzing addictions

2011-09-14T12:29:00.000-05:00

The sun hates me. On beach trips, I have been known to get sunburned faster than my palest porcelain-skinned friends, even while wearing SPF 30. I wear long sleeved shirts in 90 degree heat. I even burn through the car windshield on short drives to the grocery store. As a result of this (combined with my extreme fear of photo-aging and cancers caused by sun damage) I have become a bronzer addict. Yes, I was born caramel-colored, but I still like to add a sunkissed glow to my skin. Summer is coming to a close, and although I hardly got any direct rays, you would never know that from looking at me.

NARS Illuminators arrived just in time for summer. Illuminators are available in some of the same favorite colors as the iconic Nars Multiples. Instead of a solid stick, they are in the form of a versatile multi-use, silky gel. If you like to create your own custom look by sheering out your foundation, this subtle shimmer mixes beautifully with everything. Illuminators can be used over makeup as a highlighter or to alone add a glow to the face and decollettage. The four shades include bronze Laguna and pearly Copacabana, as well as the more well-known Orgasm and Super Orgasm colors.
Of course there WAS a Nars Body Illuminator in the deep bronze Laguna. It was one of those legendary "get it while you can" kind of deals... only available at certain stores, and only in limited quantities. How can you create something so incredible, but not make enough of it for all of us to enjoy??? Grrrr...

This summer I also fell in love with the Lorac TANtalizer Award Show Glow. The body bronzer mousse contains caffeine and other ingredients to firm the skin, helping to minimize the appearance of cellulite on your arms and legs. It comes in one pearlized copper shade that is universally flattering. The scent definitely lingers, so if you are not a fan of citrus/vanilla blends, you will probably want to skip this one. It's great for a quick fix, so apply some to your legs when you want to wear a fabulous skirt without the hassle of hosiery.

For long lasting results, go with a great self tanner for face and body. I have long been a fan of St Tropez tanning mousse, but this summer I gave Xen-Tan lotion a try. It blended nicely and didn't streak. The drying time is just a little bit longer than that of the St Tropez mousse, but still shorter than most self tanners. It gives gradual, buildable color that looks more natural brown than oompa-loompa orange. The scent is definitely more pleasant than St Tropez, but I felt that I didn't see as rich of a color as I'm used to getting out of a self tanner. You can actually skip the rubber gloves and just use your bare hands. As long as you wash them immediately, your palms will not be stained.

If you want to keep your summer color all year long, look for these products at Nordstrom, Ulta, or Blue Mercury.

Brittany, a new face to watch

2011-09-12T14:03:00.001-05:00

Maybe she is unknown to some, but Brittany is one of my favorite models to work with. You'll see several shots of her in my online portfolio.
Coed Magazine's website just recently listed Brittany as one of the new faces they would like to see more of, based upon her upcoming bunny-suited TV appearance as a "The Playboy Club" cocktail waitress.
Who can blame them? The woman is stunning.
http://coedmagazine.com/2011/09/01/hot-sexy-unknown-actresses/#photo=1

photography: Escalante
beauty: me

something new

2011-09-02T10:41:00.000-05:00

This is one of my recent favorites. You may recognize Tatjana's lovely face from the catwalk of "Project Runway" if you are as addicted to that show as I am.
This is my first time working with DC-based fashion and beauty photographer Tony Veloz, and it was well worth the wait. I can't wait to shoot with him again.

photographer: Tony Veloz
model: Tatjana
beauty: me

the September issue...

2011-08-22T12:06:00.001-05:00

...of XXL Magazine* has an editorial feature showcasing the latest in fall menswear from Reebok. For this shoot, I worked with John Wall of the Washington Wizards. Last year Wall emerged from Kentucky's legendary basketball program as the number one overall pick in the NBA draft, so if you follow sports, you already know his name.

This XXL September issue is also a tribute to the influential career of the late Tupac Shakur, which means it is a must-have for any hiphop fan. It is currently available on newsstands nationwide.

*Don't all magazines have a September issue?!? I mean, really...

photographer: Justin Borucki

like this page... support recognition for talented hair artists!

2011-07-13T13:04:00.000-05:00

We Need An Oscar For Hair is a new Facebook campaign started by the legendary hairstylist Ted Gibson.
Creating a character requires so much more than just a talented actor. There is time, art, and science that goes into transforming a person into someone different (and sometimes unrecognizable). Hollywood went for many years without recognizing the achievements in makeup design, until Rick Baker's groundbreaking work in "American Werewolf In London" forced everyone to stand up and take notice. Baker was one of my childhood heroes, and I'm still inspired by his genius.
Years have gone by and there is still no separate award category for the character work done by hairstylists.

Think about it...
For almost 40 years women have been able to ask their stylist for the "Rosemary's Baby" and get a fierce pixie. Javier Bardem is a handsome guy with pretty great hair, and is usually cast in "handsome guy" roles. Would he have been as creepy in "No Country For Old Men" without that awful, cereal-bowl bob? The world already knew The Thin White Duke had a crazy sense of personal style, but the frosty blond wigs designed for David Bowie to wear in "Labyrinth" turned him from a rock god into a Goblin King. John Waters original "Hairspray" villainess Velma VonTussle's hair was the bomb... literally. That enormous wig certainly didn't updo itself and just crawl on to Debbie Harry's head.

Tick, tick, boom.

Like this page on Facebook, show support for the hard work put in by talented hair artists, and hopefully they will get their long overdue recognition! If thousands of Facebook votes could get Betty White on Saturday Night Live, then maybe we can influence the entertainment industry in other ways.

I thought I hated vodka, but...

2011-06-30T11:36:00.000-05:00

Here is a surprising list of 14 ways to use vodka around the house, via Care2.com.

I was aware that you could use it to make a mouthwash, but had no idea that vodka could act as a natural insect repellent. I learn something new everyday...

maximum hydration and a cute bag - score!

2011-06-30T11:35:00.000-05:00

Shop Kinerase.com today and receive a free beach tote with your order.
My suggestion??? Try Hydroboost, a lightweight gel that increases your skin's natural ability to hold moisture.

Think of it as a cool drink of water for your skin. Hydroboost is amazing when used alone, and also wonderful paired with your favorite anti-aging moisturizer of choice. The mineral and plant extracts in this serum are clinically proven antioxidants. The skin-calming gel formula is loaded with hyuralonic acid to lock in moisture and plump the skin. I am as oily as my husband is dry, but we're both addicted to this stuff. The Dude swears that his forehead crease is less visible after just two weeks of use. Retailing at 75 dollars, it's less than half the price of some other anti-aging or serums that aren't working half as hard. Hydroboost is hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, fragrance free, and perfectly suitable for every skin type.

Enter promo code BEACHBAG at checkout.

mm-hmm, that's right...

2011-06-10T08:52:00.000-05:00

I got a two-syllable damn (pronouced "DAY-um") yesterday from a 20-something who wanted to know what foundation I was wearing.
My answer was "none at all."

Cleanse.
Exfoliate.
Hydrate.
Eye cream.
Yadda, yadda, yadda...

When will the children learn???

my favorite summer skin basics

2011-06-01T22:23:00.000-05:00

We all love a luxury lotion or beauty fix every once in a while, but sometimes the best remedy is the simplest one. Two of my favorite body products for summer can be found in corner drugstores in every neighborhood.

I have recently rediscovered Johnson and Johnson's Baby Oil Gel. The aloe vera and vitamin E formula gives me long lasting moisture that makes my skin glow all day long. My guy has extremely dry skin, and uses it daily. It's also one of my favorite quick fixes for ashy elbows and dry feet. The gel doesn't have the same slip as the original Baby Oil liquid, so I feel that it is much less messy.

I also love to keep plain, unscented natural shea butter around me at all times. Nothing is more gross than summer sandals with an ugly toes peeking out at the world. (Guys... I'm talking to you too.) Shea butter is my favorite for DIY pedicures in the summertime. I became a pedicure snob while I was studying theatre and dancing my butt off in college. My feet are more gorgeous and smooth now than they have ever been in my entire life, and I owe it all to shea butter.

Multitasking products are my favorites, and shea butter can be used for absolutely everything. Sometimes a regular body lotion just isn't going to do the job, so I scoop off a bit of shea butter and emulsify it between my palms to mix the two products together. It adds a boost of extra moisture and skin protection from head to toe. When I use shea butter alone, it leaves my skin insanely soft, but still absorbs quickly enough that I don't feel greasy when layering a suncreen over it. Shea butter can also be used on dry lips, dry scalp, flaky sunburn, busted cuticles, and healing scars. Why not buy in bulk and keep a vast amount in the house??

Both of these items will help your skin look great (and feel better) throughout the season. Summer is coming fast, and I am restocking my supplies immediately.

Congratulations Ashton!

2011-06-01T22:12:00.000-05:00

Ashton is a model I frequently worked with back in Chicago, and she has recently signed with to a new agency. She's a wonderful young woman and I can't wait to see her more of her work.

model: Ashton
photographer: Escalante
stylist: Ruben Lopez
hair/makeup: me

ugly armpits?

2011-04-14T14:16:00.000-05:00

The Colbert Report
Tags: Colbert Report Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,Video Archive

The Colbert Report featured a hilarious commentary this week all about corporations making insane amounts of money by creating useless body products and relentlessly marketing them to women. This clip is hysterically funny. According to Stephen Colbert, "the way to financial security is cashing in on women's insecurity."

Elizabeth Taylor Was More Than Just A Pretty Face

2011-04-03T12:24:00.000-05:00

In the week since the passing of Elizabeth Taylor, many words have been spoken and written in tribute to her.
Most people have talked about her career journey from a precocious child star to a multiple Oscar winner, and the numerous characters she brought to life during her sixty years in front of the camera. Even though she was a style icon and a Hollywood legend, Liz will always have a place in my heart for her bravery and activism.
Often times people are so quick to judge others by their looks instead of their actions. The internet and Twitterverse exploded last week with celebrities mourning Liz in 140 characters or less. One celebrity tweet proclaimed, "She will always be my idol!" Maybe Elizabeth Taylor is your personal fashion hero, or your favorite glamorous actress, but to say that she is your idol is a completely different thing. When you "idolize" someone else it implies to me that you strive to walk in their footsteps to achieve their level of success, or to mirror their achievements in hopes that you may someday be considered equally as great. If Liz is really your idol, then why aren't you out there fearlessly and tirelessly using your money and celebrity to champion a worthy cause? On the day that I volunteer at the Kim Kardashian Medical Center, I will eat my shoe, post it on YouTube, and you all will be first to know.

In the 90s, I worked in Washington DC at the Studio Theatre on 14th Street. We hosted many events and benefits for the Whitman Walker Clinic, and even to this day when I am in that neighborhood I often find myself walking by the Elizabeth Taylor Medical Center with very fond memories. The WWC serves the community of Washington, not just the LGBT residents or people with HIV. Anyone can use the primary medical services of the clinic and it is such a vital contribution to the city of DC. My friends and I have often donated our time and money to help elevate this charitable organization we hold so close to our hearts. Liz put a face on AIDS activism in a time when it was very controversial to do so. In the early 1980s people were still referring to the disease as "the gay cancer" and even the president of our country refused to acknowledge that an epidemic was blooming right under his nose. No one fully understood yet exactly how the virus was transmitted, and anyone brave enough to admit publicly that they had HIV or AIDS had to be ready to risk loneliness, isolation, and social rejection because of ignorance and misinformation. Paranoia and irrational fear of the disease was running rampant. Images of Liz Taylor looking totally glam in all her jewels and full makeup, with no preventative surgical masks or unnecessary rubber gloves, shook the world to the core. She was often photographed kissing, hugging, and holding the hands of suffering people who didn't even have family members willing to visit their hospital bedside. There were people in my life who were diagnosed with HIV in the late 80s and early 90s, only to quickly develop full blown AIDS and die within two or three years. Now, thanks to antiretroviral drugs and other HIV therapies, friends of mine who carry the virus are otherwise completely healthy and living life to the fullest.
Elizabeth Taylor founded the National AIDS Research Foundation (which later became AMFAR) in the early 1980s. Places like the Whitman Walker Clinic may have ceased to exist without proper funding, and without voices to champion their cause. People of DC may not have had the options that they have now without the steady activism and hefty monetary contributions of Elizabeth Taylor. She is so much more to Washingtonians than just a beautiful and talented actress.

Elizabeth Taylor's steamy role as Maggie in "Cat On A Hot Tin Roof" seems tame by today's standards, but the sexual chemistry that was shared onscreen with Paul Newman was extremely provocative for that era. The film cemented her status a fashion icon. Liz spent about half of that movie in sexy dresses that showed off her figure, and the other half in various states of undress. She shot many of her most critical scenes wearing a form-fitting translucent white slip, which although slightly scandalous, changed fashion forever. The movie became a hit and women all over the world began running out to their local dressmakers in search of a similar, wearable look. Many costume designers and wardrobe historians credit this as the fashion moment that popularized the slipdress, in an era when the modestly tailored frocks worn by Lucille Ball and Doris Day were still the norm.

"Can you make this for me in a sky blue lightweight cotton, please?"

Liz was probably more notorious for her marriages and scandalous affairs than she should have been. Her lovelife seems tame by today's standards, especially when you take into account how many MEN in sports, entertainment, and politics have done the same thing. Gossip rules when you are still around. It is only suddenly after you are gone people that remember the wonderful things about you.
Elton John said, "we have lost more than just a Hollywood giant, but more importantly we have lost an incredible human being."
That is how I would like to remember Liz.

Want to help relief efforts in Japan? Buy some makeup...

2011-04-01T16:07:00.000-05:00

NYX Cosmetics is donating proceeds from their sales to help Japan recover from the devastation caused by the earthquake and tsunami. Now is a great time to stock up!

anti aging antioxidants from Apriori

2011-04-01T15:46:00.000-05:00

I have spent a few weeks just watching fashion shows, researching new trends in makeup, and preparing for the upcoming seasonal onslaught of bridal madness. During this time, my face has been having the yearly end-of-winter freakout. Keeping it calm, happy, and hydrated was my number one priority.

After giving my skin a break, I tried the Celloxylin Cellular Age Advantage system from Apriori Beauty. The Apriori website describes Celloxylin as the "cell-oxygen link for protection and prevention on an external skin surface level" intended for reduction of the signs of aging and fighting oxidative stress. Key botanical ingredients are goji berry extract and butterbur (also known as fuki) extract, both of which are extremely powerful antioxidants commonly used in skin care. This is a complete line of anti-aging products for face and body, so I tested the five-step facial program.

The Creme Cleanse removed the daily dirt, oil, and face makeup nicely. A small amount went a long way, and gave my typically oily/combo skin a squeaky clean feeling afterwards. However, if you are as serious about your eye makeup as I am, you will definitely want to use a separate eye makeup remover. It didn't break down my mascara and my eyeliner didn't vanish completely.
The Activating Tonic was a great follow up to the cleanser, and immediately makes the skin feel fresh and cool. I love that it contains Witch Hazel, because my pores had a more refined look and my skin felt instantly smoother. The formula is non-drying and actually contains humectants to help deliver nutrients and moisture into the skin.
The Firming Complex is listed as fragrance free, just like the rest of the line. I detected a faintly fresh scent, but probably due to the high botanical content. One of the main components of the Firming Complex formula is Tremella fuciformis, which is in the mushroom family. The extracts of various kinds of mushrooms are known to have instant tightening effects and long-term rejuvenating properties. I have tried many different mushroom-based products and found this right on-par with some of the more highly priced serums that are out there. My skin felt much firmer almost immediately. At only 48.00, this would be an excellent buy for someone who doesn't want to drop three bills on an anti-aging serum.
I was not exactly crazy about the Eye and Lip Age Eraser. Many companies are introducing these dual-functioning anti-aging products so I was eager to try this one and compare. Although it was nice and soft around the mouth area and did not interfere with my lipstick application, I did not like the texture when it was applied as an eye cream. In my opinion it felt a bit gooey, and didn't wear well when used with my concealer or daytime eye makeup. Those of you who like a heavier eye cream may like it as a night time treatment, but personally, it wasn't my favorite product.
The Apriori system is rounded out with moisturizers for both day and night. The daytime moisture contains broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection and shea butter, but still feels light and hydrates all day. I loved the richness of the Night Repair, and even though it has a creamy hydrating texture, it didn't feel greasy.
What really impressed me the most is that my skin felt completely balanced at the end of my trial run with Apriori. I will admit that I have often laughed at the "good for all skin types" label on products, comparing it to buying a bra that claims "one size fits all" on the label. Typically I fall into the oily/combo range, but I definitely tend to get some serious surface dehydration during the winter. The season is changing (or at least trying to change) and my face has been oily one day, and dry the next, due to the daily fluctuations in temperature and humidity. I can honestly testify that the Apriori claim of "good for all skin types" is actually true.

All of these products are free of sulfates, parabens, fragrance, and dyes. The five-piece set is available online for 228.00. That is a drop in the bucket for some of us who spend that much on one cream. If I had to choose one item, I would definitely advise trying the Firming Serum above all else. I thought it was fabulous!!! Experience Apriori Beauty for yourself.

Runway Watch - Paris, Miu Miu fall/winter 2011

2011-03-30T16:21:00.000-05:00

I loved every element of this Miu Miu presentation, and considered it a major highlight of catwalk season. This is another show that I have studied and watched multiple times, so it is definitely worth a mention here. I found it absolutely breathtaking, not only for the makeup, but also because the classic silhouettes are wearable for every woman. Moody, ethereal Kate Bush vocal selections are perfectly suited for the lush setting. The Miu Miu fall collection combines modern vintage and 40s elegance, with makeup and hair that perfectly suits the look.
Imagine, if you can, a "Mildred Pierce"-era Joan Crawford with flirty dresses, glitter-covered pumps and a sense of humor...
The artistry team backstage at Miu Miu was keyed by one of my personal heroes in makeup, Pat McGrath.

Here we see the models' faces framed with a dark, thick, natural brow and a soft arch. (I grew my own brows out for a couple of months, and reshaped them a short time ago. I'm always a fan of strong brows.)
Everyone knows how much I love supersized lashes and the makeup team did not disappoint. They went all out with two layers of extra lashes added over a coat of mascara.
McGrath showed two different approaches to the lips. Some of the models are wearing a timeless "bare" lip, while others are rocking a vibrant matte red. To achieve this showstopping lip Ms. McGrath used Cover Girl Lip Perfection in Hot, mixed with Eternal to add coolness to the shade.
The hair design by Guido Palau incorporated Goody combs (like we all bought at the corner store and wore in junior high school) for a loose half-up-half-down look that wasn't too sleek or stuffy. This gives a modern and simple take on the popular "victory rolls" of the 1940s and is much less difficult to replicate than the super-coiffed old school version.
The image from the Miu Miu runway, from head to toe, is very wearable and easily achieved by most civilians who want to experiment with vintage-inspired looks.

Runway Watch - NYFW Jen Kao fall/winter 2011

2011-03-16T11:15:00.000-05:00

Here is more makeup that I loved from New York Fashion Week. I was particularly fond of the fabulous faces on the New York runway in the Jen Kao collection. The fabrics used in the collection included shiny lurex, silk chiffon, bright furs, and just a bit of technicolor fringed trim, evoking the image of a strong and sexy 1970's rock chick. Polly Osmond's makeup design managed to perfectly complete the picture of a psychedelic party princess, even while using very minimal color on the models faces.

Bronze eyebrows topped off very dewy skin and a peachy nude lip, which was a elegantly simple match for the intense jewel tones of the bold clothing. Keeping the makeup so "bare" and earthy allowed the face to become a magnificent canvas for a brow focus. Polly Osmond, leading a MAC Pro Team, mixed a loose gold pigment with a bit of water and created a strong statement brow with natural thickness and a moderate arch. Could this be a sign that the bleached brow runway trend is nearly over?

makeup by Polly Osmond

Sure, it may be difficult to pull off a metallic eyebrow in real life. However, I do feel like I may have to try the midnight blue, gold-tipped, "peacock" manicure at some point this summer.


photos courtesy of nymag.com

The makeup was accompanied by hair asymmetrically parted, twisted, and wrapped around the head in a nautilus shape. The look speaks to me and says, "I'm glam rock on the outside, but still a hippie in my heart."

#PrayForJapan

2011-03-12T12:13:00.000-06:00

My heart is breaking watching the footage of Japan. I can't even begin to imagine the devastation and confusion caused by the tsunami, and now the threat of a nuclear disaster is even more terrifying.

My thoughts are also with the people all over the world who have yet to hear from family, friends, and loved ones. Click here if you are looking for family, or trying to let your family know that you are safe and well. Please share this link with anyone you know who has family in Japan. Be patient and strong. Japan will rebuild and recover.

A Wedding Soiree - follow up

2011-03-11T16:57:00.000-06:00

Last weekend I was part of the luxury bridal event, A Wedding Soiree, hosted by Bianca Terry, an event planner who works all over the Mid Atlantic region. My good friend and makeup assistant, Jason, was there with me to lend a hand with makeup demonstrations. My husband was also there assisting both of us with moral support, technical services, comic relief and Public Relations.

I met with several couples who are busy planning their weddings and vow renewal ceremonies to discuss their options for on-location wedding day beauty and grooming.

As the featured beauty artist for the evening, I spoke to many of the guests about the fact that wedding planning extends far beyond choosing your colors and your caterer. Your beauty budget needs to be included along with your shoe and gown budget. If you are wearing a thousand (or more) dollar gown and spending thousands on a photography package, why would you trust your face to a low budget makeup artist using non-professional products? For some women it is the only day in their lives they will have a killer set of professional photos done. Give yourself the red-carpet treatment, and make these photos amazing! Don't assume that your pimples will be taken out in post-production photoshop. If you aren't already doing it, now is the best time to start getting facials and get yourself a phenomenal skin care routine. A makeup artist needs a smooth canvas to work on, and despite all of our fancy tools and potions, we are not magicians!

My words were not just intended for the women I spoke with at the event. I also addressed the men in the room with the same advice. What makes these guys think they are just allowed to show up that day in a tuxedo and be ready to go down the aisle? They should have to go through the same pre-wedding beauty rituals that we have to go through! Men must at least consider trying a series of facials to get their complexion photo ready, and definitely get a pedicure. Crusty, dry feet during beautiful tropical honeymoons are unacceptable on either gender.

All of the participating vendors gave a door prizes in a raffle. I gladly donated Raw Ingredients Body Butter along with various other skin care goodies as my gift to one of the lucky brides-to-be. My husband had a great time bonding with one engaged couple over their mutual love of baseball. In fact, this particular couple loves baseball so much that they are getting married this fall at Camden Yards. Music for the party was provided by DJ Rude, and it's a well known fact that all wedding DJs have "The Cha-Cha Slide" in their crates. I do believe that is the first wedding expo I have ever attended that ended up with a nearly full dance floor.
Did I mention there was a full bar and the champagne was flowing freely?
Now that I am back in the DC/MD area, it was great to reconnect with local wedding vendors and hopefully we will be collaborating together on wedding ceremonies with many beautiful brides in the months to come.

You can see images from the event here at Jim Wrigley photography.

"They all look really hot in their own way."

2011-03-10T11:18:00.000-06:00

Julia's Black Orchid campaign

"Fashion hasn't changed enough yet. There's too much a stereotype of beauty. It would be more inspiring to have a different kind of woman - to see fashion on [women] not just young girls.
'That's why I admire Mark Fast for being so bold about it and showing that his dresses look amazing on any girl, whether she's really tiny or whether she has boobs and bum - I think they all look really hot in their own way."

Julia Restoin-Roitfeld
(Tom Ford's muse, quoted from Telegraph UK)

Runway Watch - Prabal Gurung NYFW fall/winter 2011

2011-03-09T14:52:00.001-06:00

It's the season when all the major big-name MUAs are hard at work hustling backstage, and I'm absorbing the knowledge while studying the fashion week live streams online from the comfort of my room. I've been watching the shows in New York, Paris, and London and will be posting a few of my favorites here.

I don't know how many times I have watched this Prabal Gurung show, but the face design is probably one of my favorites that was shown in New York this year. Tom Pechaux said the idea of a sweet young woman "becoming a witch" was one of his inspirations for the intense makeup. "Mean eyes" were the focal point, and he was going for the look of a heroine (or villain, perhaps?) from a Tim Burton film. Leading the MAC pro makeup team, Pecheaux used a black eye shadow on the inside crease of the eye area. The skin was perfected with a matte finish foundation and they completed the look with rosy nude lips and a strong brow. The lip color, One Of A Kind, is part of MAC's upcoming autumn 2011 collection, and was also lightly used for a flushed effect around each model's eye area.

This makeup paired perfectly with the red, black, and silver colors of the elegant (and slightly goth) dresses. This Prabal Gurung collection was inspired by the kooky Charles Dickens character "Miss Havisham" but it somehow remains youthful and sexy. Although one could easily describe the makeup as edgy, it was a stunning match for the girly, romantic runway show pieces. Prabal Gurung is known as a favorite designer for red carpet stylists, Hollywood starlets, and FLOTUS Michelle Obama. Personally, I would love to have every piece in this collection. I wouldn't feel the least bit shy about wearing that style of makeup either.

happy birthday, Cyd Charisse

2011-03-08T19:06:00.000-06:00

Here's a burlesque-inspired jazzy number danced by legendary babe, Cyd Charisse. She was one of the most amazing dancers in Hollywood during the golden era of musical cinema. I grew up watching her movies and she's one of the reasons I wanted to dance. Cyd's legs were insured in 1952 for $5 million and listed in the Guinness Book Of World Records starting in 2001, as "The Most Valuable Legs" -- insured for even more than world famous pin-up model Betty Grable. (You may also recognize her from Janet Jackson's "Alright" video, in which she still was showing plenty of leg and serious hot babe-itude well into her golden years.)

Come join me at A Wedding Soiree!

2011-02-25T14:19:00.000-06:00

Next Saturday I will be attending A Wedding Soiree in the historic Radisson Plaza Lord Baltimore Hotel. As the featured beauty expert for the evening, I'm going to speak about why a great skin care regimen should be the first step in your wedding planning... and I'm not just talking to the ladies. If you know someone who is planning to get married anywhere in the Mid Atlantic area, inform them that they need to make their way down to Baltimore's Inner Harbor for this chic cocktail event.

A Wedding Soiree is the perfect opportunity to meet entertainment vendors, view the latest in formal fashion, and begin gathering inspiration to personalize your event. It's a chance for the recently engaged to mingle among some of the finest floral designers, event photographers, and dessert makers on the East Coast. This will also be a great networking event for wedding industry professionals, event planners, or anyone who wants to spend Saturday evening sipping champagne in an elegant art-deco ballroom.
Look for me at the Studio D Makeup table with my trusty assistant, Jason Williams. Make sure to stop and say hello!
Tickets are $20 online, or $25 at the door, and valet parking is available.

happy birthday, Nina Simone

2011-02-21T09:10:00.001-06:00

This is one of my absolute favorite songs.
Ever. Of. All. Time.
Period.

quality brushes from Sigma Beauty

2011-02-18T12:36:00.001-06:00

Sigma Beauty has great deals on brushes. Makeup brushes can be insanely expensive. Some of the tools in my kit cost upwards of 80 dollars a piece. It is also true that certain premium brushes can cost up to two hundred dollars individually. That is why a lot of artists are now in love with Sigma. The quality is wonderful, they are just as durable as more expensive brushes, and they apply makeup beautifully. Sigma gives you the option of ordering individual brushes or pre-made sets. Brushes are available in natural and synthetic fibers with various colored handles. I highly recommend the Complete Brush Set for everyone. Whether you are a new artist trying to build a working kit, or a "civilian" looking to achieve your own perfect look, this is 79 dollars well spent. Purchased individually, these 12 brushes would cost around 130 dollars.

I previously tried using another brand of professional brushes in the same price range. They ended up shedding at an alarming rate. Unfortunately, I found that the amount of hair they deposited on a client's face was a major problem. I would end up wasting precious time before a shot trying to meticulously pick fine hairs off of the makeup without smudging the foundation. I've never had that issue with a Sigma brush. Sigmax filament was created specifically for Sigma's kabuki brushes. The synthetic hair buffs the makeup onto the skin to give it a smooth finish, but without getting trapped in the makeup.
When I'm faced with the choice of replacing one high-priced brush for 80 bucks, or getting a set of twelve new brushes from Sigma, it's totally a no-brainer.

Click here to visit www.sigmabeauty.com

pucker up, buttercup

2011-02-14T12:33:00.000-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day! Let's talk about LIPS... What better topic to cover on a day like this? Payless was known as the place for designer knock-offs and low-priced practical shoes, until they recently revamped their brand with well-priced edgy collections by couture designers Christian Siriano and Patricia Field. Now Payless has taken their quest to "democratize fashion" into the beauty arena. I just became aware of the fact that they launched a lip collection, and nearly all items are under ten dollars!

I'm going to be totally honest. I have a thing for luxury-brand lip glosses, and I have spent an obscene amount of money on my lips. The very idea of turning to Payless for a perfect pout was a bit scary. For the record, lip gloss ranks extremely high (along with bras and eye cream) on my list of Things I Never Go Cheap On.

Payless Beauty offers a variety of colors, textures, and finishes. It's a perfect line for a girl who is young and just starting to wear makeup, or a babe on a budget. The Lip Palette contains six creamy lipsticks, and a mixing well to blend and create your own custom shade. Zoe and Zac Lip Shimmer is actually more of a satin finish lipstick, but my lips stayed soft for hours.

I could already see the rich color of Unforgettable Moments Lip Gloss through the tube. This one is definitely my favorite of the bunch. Although it did feel a tad bit sticky after a while, it has bright punchy color and a glassy sheen. My guy says it smells good, and he doesn't make that "eww, nasty" face when I kiss him.

The lip products are free of sodium laureth sulfate, phthalates, and parabens. Payless Beauty is environmentally-conscious. They don't test on animals and the packaging is recyclable. These are pretty decent lip glosses for such a bargain price.

don't be jealous of my boogie

2011-02-12T02:15:00.000-06:00

Start your engines. RuPaul's Drag Race is back with rhinestones, duct tape, and shade for days.

Of course I have already picked my favorite contestants. The wonderfully stylish Manila Luzon is giving me adorable Miss Congeniality vibes, but her makeup reflects too white sometimes. I want to reach into the tv and tone down all that powder. Pasty-faced or not, Manila has a personality that steals the show. Could she be the new Pandora? Although I am also a big fan of Delta Work and Alexis Mateo, I am 100% Team Raja. Out of drag, he is an incredible makeup artist, and I'm hoping that we get to see some of that talent in upcoming shows. Makeup artists and stylists should be on the lookout for Billy B as a guest judge in four episodes this season. If you aren't already aware, beauty guru Damone Roberts recently interviewed the legendary makeup artist on his Essence blog.

I would do my best "Victor/Victoria" act for a one year supply of Kryolan and some hefty coins, if a biological girl could stand a chance at winning. Seriously though, I do believe I may have been a drag queen in a past life... or possibly a Vegas-style showgirl. There is no other justification for my obsession with false lashes and my insatiable thirst for flashy, impractical shoes.

"Remember, if you can't love yourself, how the hell are you gonna love somebody else?"

Watch Drag Race Monday nights on the Logo Network or online at www.Logo.com.

Rebecca, the rock and roll bride

2011-02-11T16:34:00.002-06:00

Rebecca and Adam live in New York City, but came back to get hitched in her hometown of Oak Park, Illinois. She requested vintage inspired bad-girl makeup, complete with winged eyeliner and a pin-up red lip. I was thrilled to be a part of such a stylish wedding! The fancy frocks Rebecca wore that day and many of the personal details were created by the maid of honor, Rebecca's sister. She changed into a rockabilly-style red dress for the reception dinner, where they served Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza!
I love a bride who doesn't play by the rules. This rock and roll wedding was a complete reflection of Rebecca and Adam. Any wedding where the maid of honor is allowed to wear a leopard print wiggle dress with cherry red patent-leather pumps is all right with me.


The rockin'est red lip? OCC Lip Tar in NSFW

Love is in the air

Reppin' Oak Park

A kiss for the ringbearer

Photography by Jeremy Lawson.

heaven is a place on earth... the NARS boutique

2011-02-09T22:25:00.001-06:00

NARS flagship store will be opening the doors for the first time on February Tenth. Fashion Week is right around the corner, so the timing couldn't be more perfect. The long awaited boutique is located on Bleecker Street, which just adds to the insane amount of money I can potentially leave in the West Village. If you are in NYC don't miss out on a great opportunity to pick up the extremely limited edition Bento Box, because none of your girlfriends are going to have it.
Read more about the Nars boutique at Vogue.com.

Sexy Body Butter from Raw Ingredients

2011-02-05T13:04:00.000-06:00

The very first time I used Raw Ingredients I was completely blown away. This certified organic line was created by Rita Calderon after years working in the cosmetics industry, having access to every product humanly possible, and still not finding the perfect moisturizer for her sensitive skin.
“I suffer from eczema and found that over the counter products simply didn’t work,” Rita states. “I couldn’t find the right products with fragrances that I liked.” Raw Ingredients products are custom formulated for sensitive skin. Rita runs her company and makes her products in her New York home. She also creates handmade soap and hair oils. I have nothing but the utmost respect for a lady who knows what she wants and gets it herself. We've all got to give more support to women-owned independent businesses.

Most of us are now aware that certain high-profile beauty lines which have marketed themselves as "natural" are actually loaded with unnecessary chemicals. The Raw Ingredients line only uses jojoba oil, sunflower oil, chamomile, aloe extract and plant extracts to nourish and moisturize. Sexy Body Butter is made from 98% natural ingredients. My skin feels silky and has a soft tropical scent that lingers throughout the day. It smells like a vacation in a jar. The Body Scrub moisturizes while it gently exfoliates, but doesn't leave a grease slick in the bottom of my shower. After I rinsed it off, my skin was perfectly polished and well hydrated. I could have even skipped the Body Butter application after scrubbing today, but I'm now addicted to that yummy smell! If the idea of smelling like a mango turns you off, don't let that keep you away from purchasing Raw Ingredients. The products are available in a variety of scents (or unscented), so there is something for everyone.
I'm always trying to maintain my smooth skin, but could it be possible to be even smoother than butta? We shall see, because this is going to become part of my regular beauty routine. Everything in the Raw Ingredients line is 15 dollars or less. You really can't go wrong with that.
To order go to http://www.raw-ingredients.com

Laura, the bride with the megawatt smile

2011-01-31T22:59:00.002-06:00

Laura Mruz is the most unforgettable bride that I have ever had the pleasure of working with. Many makeup artists shy away from doing weddings, because the environment can be extremely tense and emotions can run high. Laura was the kind of friendly, easygoing bride we all dream of working with. There was absolutely no "Bridezilla" drama with this young lady. When I first spoke to Laura, talking with her was like talking with an old friend. I even told my husband, "She is already pretty with no makeup, and she's going to be stunning on her wedding day. This is going to be easy."

Less than a month before The Big Day, I received a phone call from one of Laura's bridesmaids. Laura's mother had just passed away. While Laura was working on final details of her wedding, her family was preparing to say goodbye to their mother. This really broke my heart, because my own wedding felt totally incomplete without my mother in the room. I knew it was going to be a bittersweet occasion, but I wanted to help in whatever way I could. We discussed a few makeup changes (peachy or pink lips, NO smoky eyes, and waterproof everything).
I made one more suggestion. I told her that some of my best girlfriends surprised me with a locket on my wedding day. Inside the locket was a picture of my mother. We wrapped it around my bouquet so my mom could be with me when I walked down the aisle.
Fast forward to Laura's wedding day...
When I arrived at the Mruz family home, Laura's aunt cheerily announced my arrival by saying, "Hey everybody... it's THE LOCKET LADY!!!" The next thing I knew I was getting hugs from strangers. They had made a similar locket for Laura with a lovely photo of her mother, too.
This amazing family could not have been more wonderful and positive to work with. I would do it again in a heartbeat. Laura was beauty and resilience personified, her family was hilarious, and I could literally feel the love in the room.
I kept the bridemaids' eye makeup very simple by using my favorite waterproof eyeliner and finishing it off with two coats of waterproof black mascara. At the end everyone got a double spritz of Makeup For Ever Mist and Fix to keep the makeup looking fresh and smudge-proof all day.

Million Dollar Smiles!

Laura had a Christmas weekend wedding in December of 2009. I just heard from her last week, and she is expecting her first baby!!! I wish the Mruz-Cronin family all the happiness, love, and luck in the world.

Put On The Gloves

2011-01-25T15:09:00.001-06:00

This Thursday I will be participating in Put On The Gloves, a fashion show to benefit The Trevor Project. This is going to be an evening of haute fashion, hosted by celebrity stylist and fashion guru Philip Bloch, and featuring a special performance by Mya. I am thrilled to be donating my makeup skills for the fashion show, and honored to be working backstage with a brilliant team of professional artists and stylists. James Cornwell, of PR at Partners, is creative director of the hair team, and I will be working under key makeup artist Kathy Aragon. I'm getting really excited about this event, and would love to see some of my DC area people come out to show some support!

The Trevor Project is a positive support system of life-saving and empowering resources created to end suicides among LGBTQ youth - a nationwide 24/7 crisis intervention lifeline, digital community and advocacy/educational programs.

The party starts at 7:00 PM, Thursday, January 27th.
Town Danceboutique, 2009 8th Street NW, DC
Tickets are fifty dollars.

more work from 2010... L'oreal INOA @ ABS

2011-01-18T06:15:00.001-06:00

First and foremost, Happy 2011, and I hope all of you had a safe and happy holiday season. I'm already rounding up potions and lotions to be reviewed in the next few weeks.

While I was organizing my 2010 photos I came across more shots from America's Beauty Show last spring.
I did makeup when L'oreal launched their INOA (Innovation - NO Ammonia) Color System. All of the hairstyles and custom hairpieces were designed by members of the L'oreal Professionnel team.
There were many different stages in McCormick Place that weekend, and I can definitely say that ours was the most vibrant.

We had two distinctly different presentations. One show featured sassy vintage looks to represent the long history of L'oreal and the variety of beauty trends they have helped to inspire over several decades.
The other presentation showed fantasy makeup with nature-inspired hairstyles, such as a flower 'fro and a pea-hawk. (Yes - I would like to believe that I invented that name for a mohawk made of peacock feathers, so don't tell me otherwise.) We did three of each show, three days in a row. That's a lot of eyelash glue and Red Bull. I had an amazing time working with that fantastic team.
INOA is an ammonia-free professional coloring system that uses a conditioning oil to deliver color into the hair shaft. It doesn't irritate the scalp or give off noxious fumes, and is available at fine salons nationwide.

Senior hair artists from L'oreal styling demo.

Prepping the "hair" for the next show.

Vamping it up backstage.

Mocha Rose Lip Balm = awesome

2010-12-23T12:09:00.000-06:00

If you're still on the hunt for last minute holiday gifts or affordable stocking stuffers, you should consider giving goodies from the Rosebud Perfume Company. All Rosebud products are paraben, phthalate, and sulfate free. The simple packaging is very practical, and I love the vintage, old-timey feel of the cute little tins.

While sifting through the random contents of a Chicago fashion week swag bag, I found a Mocha Rose Lip Balm from Rosebud buried at the bottom. Rosebud Salve, already cult favorite of skin-care junkies, can be used as a healing moisturizer on chapped lips, dry hands, cuts, scrapes, or anywhere else your skin needs a little kick of TLC. It is often a staple in makeup artists kits, so it stands to reason that Rosebud's lip balms would be just as fantastic.
I've been using the Mocha Rose ever since that night, and never leave the house without it anymore. Shea butter, vitamin E, and essential oils make this product a must-have for flaky winter lips. The formula is moist and soft, not greasy or sticky, and leaves your lips with a slightly dewy finish. My lips stay soft for hours after the shine is gone, and they haven't been chapped at all since the weather turned cold. The Mocha Rose scent is like rich cocoa, with a hint of coffee, but doesn't overpower. Although it does have a rosy pink color in the tin, it shows up colorless on the lips.

You can purchase the Rosebud Perfume Company Lip Balms at Blue Mercury or Sephora for about 7 dollars. However, you may as well pony up the 16 dollars for the Rosebud SET, which includes two full size lip balms and a full size of the multipurpose Rosebud Salve. This would make a great holiday gift for anyone.

smooth skin for the holidays

2010-12-15T09:19:00.003-06:00

Don't waste your time buying bad presents that will be exchanged for a mediocre handbag. Avoid getting crappy makeup and a chintzy "gift-with-purchase" that will remain in your aunt's bathroom closet for the next two years. Gift-givers get sucked in by the fancy packaging and end up buying horrid cosmetics sets every holiday. This year, if you're going to spend money, buy presents that people will actually use. I've already wandered the stores to find the best skin care gifts and weed out the junk. The season's best holiday sets are running out quickly, and these are a few of my favorites so far:

Clarisonic Mia is the perfect gift for the man or woman who is very serious about their skin care, already faithful to their favorite serums and potions, and looking to add a boost to their existing routine. Clarisonic Mia is one of the products that you may have heard beauty professionals rely for their own personal use. I know loads of people in this business who won't go on an overnight trip without it in their bag. Invented by the creators of the Sonicare toothbrush, this gentle buffer can be used with any facial cleanser for an even deeper cleaning with an extra boost of exfoliation. Clarisonic is 149 dollars, and available at Sephora or at most department stores.

Kiehl's Ultimate Men's Set has an exfoliating body bar, daily face wash, healing hand lotion, brushless shaving cream, and the cult favorite Facial Fuel Moisturizer. This gift set is fantastic for men who already love the brand, but still simple enough for the guys who are new to the world of skin care. At 50 dollars, the price is so right. I saw one this while cruising the aisles at Saks Fifth Avenue, and Kiehl's is available nationwide in most fine department stores.

I was really impressed by the Prevage Advanced Skin Care Set, which includes the anti-aging eye cream (a personal favorite of mine), daytime moisturizer with SPF 30, anti-aging body moisturizer, night cream, and the advanced serum. If you aren't familiar with Prevage, it was created by Allergan Dermatology. You may recognize that name, because they are the same laboratory responsible for Botox and Latisse. Rest assured that this powerful anti-aging cosmeceutical collection is well worth the 155 dollar price tag, because buying these items individually costs more than twice that much. This set is exclusive to Nordstrom stores only.

Buying for someone when you don't really know their skin concerns can be extremely difficult. Giorgio Armani Skin Care has a self-adjusting universal formula that works well for ALL types of skin, whether it's aging, dry, sensitive, or acne-prone. (This philosophy is reflected in the company's motto, "One cream for a lifetime.") Giorgio Armani's Crema Nera gift set includes travel-friendly sizes of the entire skin care line, including the new Obsidian Mineral Firming Serum everyone is raving about. The 250 dollar price tag may sound steep for a gift set, but is a steal for a sampler of an entire luxury skin care line. The serum alone retails for that exact price. This is a wonderful gift for introducing someone to the line, or for anyone who travels frequently. Look for this one at Neiman Marcus and select Nordstrom locations.

new work

2010-12-14T21:00:00.000-06:00

Annette has an unforgettable face. You may have seen it before if you've ever flipped through an Abercrombie and Fitch catalog.

Shooting with her is a dream, and hanging out with her is just as fun!

Side note: I just realized that I am now ONE degree of separation away from Bruce Weber. Freakin' cool.

photography: Escalante

everything else: me

DIY holiday beauty gifts

2010-12-01T19:53:00.001-06:00

Last week, I was asked to post some more home-grown DIY skin care gift ideas for the holidays. You will need some glass storage jars, a few minutes in the kitchen, and a quick trip to a craft store to pick up the art supplies you may need to personalize or decorate your gifts. Here are a few new recipes for you, and they perfectly compliment some of the recipes I posted last year.There are many different exfoliants right in your kitchen cabinet. Several body scrubs use sugar because it is so gentle on the skin, but some people prefer the coarser grains of a salt scrub.
Salt has been known for centuries for it's healing properties and time has proved it to be a relaxing way to soak sore and tired muscles. Creating your own therapeutic scented bath salt is easy. Use one tablespoon of baking soda for each cup of salt used, and add a few drops (usually 10 to 20, depending on the strength of the fragrance) of your favorite essential oil for scent. It doesn't matter whether you use epsom salt, rock salt, sea salt, or rock salt, and some formulas mix them all together.

This one makes an awesome scrub for dry and tired feet.

Peppermint Foot Scrub
*1 cup dead sea salt
*1/3 cup sunflower oil or other carrier oil of choice
*10 drops peppermint essential oil, 5 drops lavender. Mix well and store in an airtight jar. Stir again before using.

Coffee grounds also make a wonderful exfoliator and they are loaded with antioxidants.Caffeine also acts as a vasoconstrictor, reduces puffiness (this is why caffeine extract is often an ingredient in many cosmetic eye creams), and may also temporarily lessen the appearance of some varicose veins.

My personal favorite coffee recipe...

Vanilla Body Scrub
*1 teaspoon vanilla essential oil
*1 teaspoon cinnamon
*1 cup coffee grounds
*1/3 cup hazelnut oil or other carrier oil of choice
Mix ingredients in a glass bowl, store in an airtight jar, and stir well before using. You'll be baby-soft and smell like dessert.

Feel free to experiment with different variations on these recipes. Essential oils can be found at most local health food stores. Either combine them for their aromatherapy benefits or to create your own signature scent. Honey has natural healing and moisturizing properties, and can be added to almost anything. Your carrier oil is the base that holds all the ingredients together, and leaves your skin feeling silky smooth. Choose an oil that doesn't go rancid very quickly, and these products may be stored and used for up to a year. Sunflower oil is a favorite because it absorbs so quickly and has a long shelf life. Nut oils (macadamia and hazelnut) are amazing for their sweet scent and hydration properties, but don't give a gift to someone without forgetting to ask if they have a nut allergy first.
Happy holidays!!!

new work

2010-11-23T13:06:00.000-06:00

This is the amazing and talented Shameika. She is a featured dancer in The Lion King, which is ending a two month run in Chicago this week. Shameika has toured all over the world with this cast and is also a competitive dancer. Keep an eye out for her to do big things in the world of theatrical entertainment. She is an L.A. girl, and I'm sure she's happy to be getting out of the midwest just before winter blasts into town.
Tickets have been hard to get, but you may still have a chance to see the show! Click here for Broadway In Chicago ticket information.

styling: Ruben Lopes
photography: Escalante
makeup and hair: by me, of course...

V Mag asks, "Who Cares About Age?"

2010-11-19T16:52:00.001-06:00

I'm crazy about this photo of Legendary Iconic Supermodel Pat Cleveland, shot by Cedric Buchet. I'm not exactly sure how old she is, but this woman has kids that are my age. All I can say is work, Pat, WORK! Girl, you own EVERYTHING. Age ain't nothing but a number!!!
Pat is still absolutely stunning. Remember that cheesy 70s film "Mahogany" where Diana Ross twirled and danced down the runway as a young, black fashion model taking Europe by storm? Diana literally stole those moves from Pat Cleveland.
This is just one of many beautiful images from V Magazine's "Who Cares About Age" issue, hitting newsstands today. V is celebrating the beauty of Grown Ass Women this month, and giving all the young-uns something to aspire to. Three separate covers were shot, and each cover girl is over 60 years old! Although Sigourney Weaver is one of my personal heroes and I'm quite fond of Ms. Jane Fonda, Susan Sarandon's cover is my absolute favorite...

...so pretty!
Is this just a tribute issue, or a passing fad? Personally I think it's wonderful to see women of all ages, not just the teens and twenty-somethings from the Paris runways, modeling in major publications. Again, fashion is supposed to be fantasy, and the reality is very different. Fashion editorials usually show young models, some of them barely out of their teens, in couture and luxury suiting. What social functions does a 19 year old attend that may require her to wear an impeccably-tailored, two thousand-dollar suit?
Stop and think about who is actually buying these clothes. When I was working in high fashion boutiques most of my regular clients were stylish career women well over 40. I would often come home from work, shake my head, and say, "That 59 year old chick is so fierce I want to be HER when I grow up." These are the women who could afford to buy a Gucci suit, blouse, and coordinating pumps, when most of my 18 year old customers were saving their tips from serving at the local diner just to buy a belt or a wallet. These women don't need to babysit all summer or dip into their student loan funds to by one popular style of designer handbag, because these grown women already have that bag in three different colors and in skins appropriate for each season. These are grown women who really are VIPs in every sense of the word, not standing in line trying to get into the VIP room at the club on Friday night. If the older woman is the customer that is being sold to, then would she want to see the clothing modeled by someone she can relate to?
What do you think?

I Love Sesame Street!!!

2010-10-21T20:38:00.000-05:00

"I Love My Hair" is the latest clip from Sesame Street to go viral, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. The perky ode to naturally curly hair, sung by an adorable brown skinned muppet girl, is actually performed by Chauncey Johnson who starred in "The Lion King" on Broadway. I think I watched it about five times, and enjoyed it so much I lost track of time completely.
Remember the infamous decades-old social experiment showing that vast numbers of black children preferred to play with the white dolls because they were prettier, and labeled the black dolls as ugly, with "bad" hair? Years have passed, and sadly, a very recent rehashing of that study shows that things haven't changed much. Sesame Street's head writer became concerned about his daughter, who was not very fond of her own natural afro after playing with dolls that had long, blonde hair. The lyrics were written because there are too many little girls growing up in the world believing that there is only one kind of "pretty" hair. The swirling melody will make you dance in your seat, and you'll be humming the tune for the rest of the day.
The muppet chanteuse grooves, sways, and models fiercely cute accessories in her afro. She even rocks my personal favorite, corn rows with beads! In elementary school, I totally owned that look. I annually planned my first day of school outfits around the colors of the beads in my hair. My hair would be braided with colorful beads every year before I went to summer camp, and I always managed to coordinate the colors of the swimsuits and sneakers I took along for each trip. When I tried to jump double dutch, if I got the rhythm just right, the loud "click-clack" sound of the beads made me sound totally bad ass.
Sesame Street shows real people of all colors living and working among orange people with purple mustaches, going about their daily business, because it's nothing new to to them see a deaf woman having a conversation about vegetables with a green dude in a trash can. Sesame Street has always been one of the most diverse shows on television, with a cast of actors of all ages and races, but the actual muppets are usually ethnically-ambiguous fuzzy creatures. We now have a muppet who is most definitely, without a doubt, a black girl... with a fierce afro! Self hatred is an epidemic among young girls of all colors and sizes, and showing them positive images of all types of beauty will boost their self-esteem and stop them from becoming self-hating, insecure adult women. If the geniuses in marketing know what's good for them, a million of these dolls will be on the shelves before the holidays.
I want one.

lipstick worth raving about

2010-10-10T13:36:00.000-05:00

Rouge Pur Couture is the newest addition to the Yves Saint Laurent beauty family. This luxurious lipstick is available in several variations on the iconic brand's signature colors: red, orange, and fuschia. Rouge Pur Couture also delivers encapsulated hydration and SPF 15, with serious color payoff that stays true for hours.
The creamy formula is not at all greasy or sticky, and contains the most intense pigment in the entire YSL lip collection. It is definitely worth the thirty dollars, so do not feel any guilt about trashing your lip-drying, 12-hour lipstick from the drugstore for an upgrade.
The range of vibrant colors includes shades to compliment any skin tone. Anyone looking for a perfectly true red will LOVE the supremely vivid red #1. If you were addicted to Shu Uemura's RD 165, which is no longer available in department stores, I recommend this as the next best thing! Professional makeup artists and casual makeup addicts will love #12 blanc (a pearly white) and #18 noir laque (deep blackberry). Both are edgy and sophisticated when worn alone, but are also made to be layered with any colors in the collection to alter the intensity.
The line was designed by creative director Stefano Pilati and is elegantly packaged in a classy gold tube.
YSL Beauty is available in the Chicago area and nationwide at Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue.

YSL Rouge Pur Couture

new work

2010-09-25T01:34:00.001-05:00

I can't wait to shoot with Bridget again. She is absolutely lovely!

model: Bridget
photographer: Escalante
wardrobe styling: Ruben Lopes

please spare me the mental anguish...

2010-09-25T01:30:00.001-05:00

I asked a client last week what she used to moisturize her skin, and she just kind of shrugged and said, "Ummmm..."

If she were 25, I would have explained the benefits of a good skin care treatment system and just moved on.
If she were 35, I would have given her the lecture on why she should have started using proper skin care over a decade ago.
This particular client was 55 years old. I stopped her right there, because there is no excuse for anyone over 30 to not be conscious of what they are putting on their face. There is absolutely no excuse for that type of neglect. She has been bouncing from counter to counter trying out (and returning) different brands of foundations and concealers, looking for the miracle cure to put the dewy glow back in her skin.
This drives me up the wall. Here's a little tough love for some of my readers and clients... and please take these words to heart.

* Stop expecting makeup to be a quick fix for all your problems. Women book makeup lessons with me because they want glowy, even skin. If the first thing they ask for is a full coverage foundation, I usually respond with, "What are you trying to hide?"
* Cleanse. Hydrate. Exfoliate. We are not plastic surgeons. We are here to enhance your natural beauty to make you look your best. I cannot perform my best work on a canvas that hasn't been properly cared for. Meet us halfway. This is supposed to be a basic part of personal hygiene, like brushing your teeth or combing your hair.
* Your skin is as vital an organ as your heart, liver, and lungs. Treat it as such. You see a dentist for a yearly cleaning. You are aware that you have to perform self-exams for breast health. Your general practitioner is probably on your speed dial... but when was your last visit to a dermatologist?
* Be prepared when you go see your skin care professional. We are not psychics. How can we help you find proper answers to your complexion dilemmas if you can't answer a simple question about your daily routine?
* Stop thinking that you know everything. Most skin care professionals have been extensively trained in product ingredient knowledge and contraindications. Do we show up at your place of work and tell you how to do your job?
* Just because something doesn't show instant results doesn't mean it's not the right product for you. Many things aren't made to work overnight. Any doctor can tell you that some prescription medications, especially the ones intended for long term use, take time to build up in your system before you start to feel a change in your symptoms. This is also true for skin care. Unless you are severely allergic to a product, allow your skin one month to adjust to it before you assume "it isn't doing anything."

I'm going to repeat something I've written over and over, and unfortunately, have to keep repeating until people get it into their heads...
Your skin cannot be replaced, like your kidneys or your knees. Take care of it.

one of my muses!

2010-08-22T18:24:00.002-05:00

I love shooting with Ashton... Nuff Said. Oh, and I did I mention she's got legs FOR DAYS?? You will be seeing much more of her work, so keep your eyes peeled!

model: Ashton
photographer: Escalante

smooth shaving... for the fellas

2010-08-13T00:36:00.001-05:00

Men with sensitive skin often have a hard time maintaining a smooth complexion because they aren't shaving properly, and many of them don't know where to turn to correct the situation. It can be difficult to get men into the skin care area of a department store or salon, because they may feel threatened by the Amazons with Painted Faces and have preconceived notions about "the type of guy who buys eye cream."
Get over yourselves.
The Dude (my husband, for those of you who may not know) used to gripe about new products I would beg him to use. My response was a warning wrapped in a threat: sometime in the future, between him using NO anti-aging protection and me sleeping while covered in the stuff, people may think he's my dad. Now he happily scrubs, cleanses, and hydrates without asking me any more questions. Mm-hmm... Chocolate Perfection.

There is skin care out there aimed specifically at you guys, so don't fret. Many lines are integrating skin care elements into the process of shaving, so men aren't overwhelmed with adding extra steps to the daily routine. The Art of Shaving makes a Badger Hair Shave Brush that not only lifts and softens hair to prep it for easy removal, but also exfoliates the skin to help prevent razor burns and bumps. Those with more coarse hair should add the pre-shave oil to the skin for extra softness before applying your shave cream.
If you would like to experience The Art of Shaving for yourself, you can treat yourself to a professional hot shave in Art of Shaving's Barber Spa at Washington DC's Union Station, or find the Perfect Shave Kit in Chicago area Nordstrom stores.

My dad is an old-school tough guy who used to be an Old Spice kind of a man, but he just admitted that he is now too spoiled to get shaving and skin products from the drugstore anymore. I spoke with him about an hour ago, and he said "that white stuff in the tube really works." He was referring to the Anthony Logistics For Men Shave Cream that I gave him for Father's Day. Men are funny about products with random scents, but Anthony Logistics is fragrance-free and it doesn't clash with his normal cologne. He raved about how well the razor glides over the hair without pulling, the visible difference it made in the texture of his skin, and how soft his face is. (Have you met my dad? If you have, then you understand why this is so hilarious.) My dad also has a great respect for the world of chemistry and science. When I break it down using terms like "humectant glycerin" or refer to vitamin A by it's proper name - retinyl palmitate - he totally gets why his skin is as supple and smooth as a 40 year old's.
To learn more about Anthony Logistics click here... http://www.anthony.com/store/product/shave-cream/

another new photo...

2010-07-24T18:06:00.005-05:00

edit: Yeah I changed it... this one is even better!!!

I love this shot!! I've also updated my website, so feel free to take a look.
http://studiodmakeup.com/

model: Kim
photograper: Escalante

something new

2010-07-16T22:58:00.000-05:00

Today was sunny and gorgeous. Perfect for an outdoor shoot... regardless of the scorching heat!

model: Brennan
photographed by Escalante

more mascara

2010-07-15T01:19:00.003-05:00

My lust for large lashes is no secret, and I've never said "no" to new mascara. I've used four different kinds since the last time I posted on this topic.
If you want a top notch luxury brand mascara, Giorgio Armani just released Eyes To Kill. Maestro was already amazing, but some of the customers were not fond of the tiny comb applicator. ETK has arrived at Armani counters nationwide in a shiny tube with a fluffy brush, and it completely blows me away. I tend to apply multiple coats, but after just one, I looked at myself in the mirror and said, "Umm, whoa." The normal water-resistant formula seems to have more "pop" to it, so unless you're a scuba-diving instructor, don't even bother with the waterproof. I feel like it doesn't look as dramatic as the other.
Another fantastic option is the mascara powerhouse Yves Saint Laurent. YSL promises - and delivers - their "blackest pigment ever" in YSL Noir Radical. This formula also has the curling effect they are famous for, adds intense drama and length, and gives the palest and finest lashes a fake lash effect. I love the coverage!!! However, the tube dried out pretty quickly and made my eyes sad when it went away...
So then I turned to my local drugstore for another fix.
I have had great luck with Cover Girl's affordable mascaras in the past, and the new Lash Blast Fusion was the obvious choice. After a couple of uses I was totally underwhelmed. The tube said "very black" - and I looked in the trash just to double check every inch of the outside packaging. Maybe I had been spoiled by the previous two, but I felt like the less-than-black formula actually made my lashes look dark gray. Toodles, Cover Girl. I didn't even finish the tube.
Then, along came Rimmel Glam Eyes Mascara. LOVE her. The spiky, flexible wand separates and curls the lash. This will work well for anyone looking for major length. It's completely smudgeproof, and it defines each lash without making them appear heavy with product. I wore it to the limit, and actually went back for a second tube. I haven't done that in a long while.

The bottom line: Glam Eyes may have the potential to be my new drugstore favorite, and ETK is smashing.

optical illusions

2010-07-07T22:44:00.000-05:00

Before you go beating yourself up because your boobs haven't sat up like round and perky missile silos since your junior year of high school, remember that there is a whole team of people involved in sculpting those bodies on the magazine covers. Makeup artists and hairstylists aren't the only wizards working behind the scenes. These days photoshop wizards can do everything from creating cleavage to whittling waists. The film "300" is a perfect example of just how much body makeup is used sometimes to make men look more chiseled on screen.
Have you ever looked at a magazine and wondered how that slender girl in the photo gets such great cleavage with so little to work with? Many of the men and women we see are indeed beautiful by western standards, but genetics, diet, and a great personal trainer can only do so much. There is not only a makeup artist who highlights and contours their bodies, but also post-production digital manipulation that adds curves where there are none and six-pack abs to those who don't have them. So read this article, and keep it in mind when asking yourself "Why can't I look like that?"

http://www.yourbeautyindustry.com/news/322-news-top-5-most-digitally-altered-body-parts

new work

2010-05-13T19:17:00.000-05:00

Here are a few shots of The Chicago Bears Greg Olsen, shot by Rod Roberts for the May issue of Me: In Focus Magazine. Greg's mother is a breast cancer survivor and he works with various charities to spread awareness of the disease.

During his pre-shoot grooming, Greg joked with me that he had never worn that much makeup in his life, but I think he liked my hot-pink war paint. I'm sure the other Bears are totally jealous.

The "Real Men Wear Pink" article in Me: In Focus Magazine can been seen here... http://www.scribd.com/doc/31180979/ME-lN-FOCUS-Magazine-May-2010

...from the "photoshop of horrors"

2010-04-22T19:59:00.001-05:00

Right on the heels of the media's praise for Jessica Simpson's supposedly "raw" Marie Claire magazine cover, comes this cover featuring First Lady Michelle Obama digitally retouched to DEATH.

No really... she looks corpse-y and weird, and if I were her kids this picture would scare the heck outta me. When the May issue of Good Housekeeping hits newsstands you will see that her complexion is totally off, her smile lines aren't as deep, and her skin looks like the same quality plastic used to make Cabbage Patch Dolls. In fact, that head doesn't even look attached to her body. Not that this magazine is known for their excellent photography or anything, but why did they do this to our lovely FLOTUS? To be honest, I like to think this isn't actually The Real Michelle Obama. She was busy that day, off somewhere doing heroic Mom-type stuff, so they used a life-sized wax doll from Madame Toussaud's museum as her stand-in for this shoot.

Shu Uemura - what to get before it's all gone

2010-04-22T16:01:00.000-05:00

When L'oreal announced earlier this month that they are pulling Shu Uemura Cosmetics out of the United States, makeup artists let out a collective and mournful wail heard round the world. Now that the dust has settled, we have had time to process our great loss, and we pretty much agree there is only one thing to do... STOCK UP NOW. If you've never tried the line before, you are running out of time. It will still be available for purchase online, but we all know that buying makeup and skin care in person is a much wiser way to purchase, especially for those of you who are new to the line.
So before Shu is pulled completely from US department stores, you need to get it while the getting is good. I've compiled this list of what I think is the best of Shu Uemura... the absolute must-haves for your personal or professional makeup kits.

Luxury lashes are a staple of the line. Shu Uemura makes has premium fantasy lashes, sturdy enough for many multiple applications, and designed by some of the world's top makeup artists. If you aren't looking for a super-glam showgirl look, try the Black Focal lash. They are gorgeous and look extremely natural compared to the fantasy lashes.

The eyelash curler is the first thing that comes to mind when people mention Shu Uemura. If you already own one, stock up on the replacement pads.

It was crucial for me to get some more of the natural #18 foundation brushes, because they really are the best I have ever used. Ever. These give completely seamless application with any brand of cream or liquid foundation, and buff the skin's surface to a smooth, airbrush-like finish.

I blogged a few months ago about the liquid eyeliner to end all liquid eyeliners. If you already own the pen, you may want to hit your local counter up for a few refillable eyeliner cartridges before they are all gone. I am also a huge fan of the painting liners and cream shadows, both of which are smudge-free and waterproof.

The famous facial cleansing oils are great for all skin types, break down makeup and dirt immediately, and leave skin soft and clear. However, everyone should also try the sakura (cherry blossom) Japanese bath oil. It's the kind of luxury spa-like stuff that makes you stay in a hot bathtub 'til your toes look like raisins.

L'oreal has owned major stake in the company for the last few years, and has overseen the development of Shu counters for Neiman-Marcus, Nordstrom, Saks, and Bergdorfs. Even though the line is a cult favorite among makeup junkies and beauty professionals, L'oreal is pulling the skincare and makeup out of the US market and choosing only to focus their efforts on promoting Shu Uemura's premium hair care line in prestige spas and salons.
I have worked plenty of major beauty events over the years, but none have been more rewarding and fun than the Shu Uemura events I have done with Gina Brooke. Gina travels with Madonna as her personal makeup artist, as well as being the creative director for Shu Uemura USA. Everytime I work alongside her I learn new ways to use older products, and pick up some new techniques. Gina is one of the best artists I've ever been in a room with, and I will miss seeing her!

Light It Up Blue for Autism Awareness!!

2010-04-01T20:29:00.003-05:00

Don't forget to wear something blue for World Autism Awareness Day, April 2, 2010. We should all wear blue to call attention to the fact that April is Autism Awareness Month. Major landmarks like Niagara Falls and Fenway Park will be illuminated with blue lights to raise awareness of what is now being called a global health crisis.

I'm not exactly subtle when trying to make a point about a cause that is extremely important to me, and since someone who I love to pieces is on the autism spectrum, I'm going all out.

I will be wearing Shu Uemura M665 and ME 650 (which creates an electric blue shimmery eye) all weekend long... to the grocery store, dog park, etc. Of course I could just wear some denim or a blue t-shirt and matching track pants, but why would I do something the easy way?

Here is a list of some of my favorite blues for those of you who are brave enough to try them out.

CHANEL Bleu Celeste Quadra Eye Shadow - pearlized blues ranging from powder to navy.
NARS South Pacific Eye Duo - shimmery, aquamarine and turquoise, not for the faint of heart!
L'Oreal HIP Spirited Shadow Duo - one side looks like dark denim - the other, acid washed denim.
YSL Effet Faux Cils Deep Night Mascara - navy blue, one coat volumizing mascara.
Rimmel Maritime Colour Rush Trio - soft ocean blue shadows
Vincent Longo Cobalt Aqua Teal Duo Eye Pencil - double-ended eye pencil for smoky high drama.

I want to see you rocking your blue, so feel free to post your best blue smoky-eye photo on our Facebook fan page!

reduce the redness of rosacea

2010-03-25T21:40:00.000-05:00

When I'm doing wedding makeup, one of the most frequent gripes I hear from women is that they don't know what to do with their rosacea-type skin. I carry Booster Blue Soothing Skin Concentrate in my wedding kit for this very reason. I use it on the red and irritated parts of the client's face, and follow it with moisturizer before applying any primer or makeup. This usually results in me getting an email a week or two later asking me, "What was that blue stuff again?"
The hydrating cream, designed by innovative Canadian dermatologist Dr. Benjamin Kaminsky, has a blue-green color that blends into the skin, visibly reduces blotches, and neutralizes redness immediately. It contains an anti-inflammatory agent to cool, calm, and reduce the puffiness, but is designed to be safe enough for use in conjunction with any prescription-strength skin treatments. B Kamins Soothing Skin Concentrate is also allergy-tested and fragrance free. It's safe to use over or under makeup, but as with any other restorative skin care treatment, you see more dramatic and longer lasting results when it is applied directly to the face. I've used it on many faces over the last few years and it's become a staple in my kit, so I recommend it to anyone of any skin type who is experiencing issues with redness.

http://www.bkamins.com/rosacea-treatment.aspx

getting ready for the weekend!

2010-03-24T10:45:00.000-05:00

This country's premier event for spa and salon owners, America's Beauty Show, begins this Friday at McCormick Place. Every year ABS shows the latest trends in hair, makeup, and skin care, as well as being a wonderful forum for spa and salon professionals to meet each other. The classes and seminars are led by talented stylists and beauty educators, and this year the featured guest speaker everyone is talking about is salon educator Tabatha Coffey of Bravo TV.
I know some of you reading right now may have been my roommates before or worked with me personally, and are aware of my germophobia and obsession with proper sanitation (and you know there was a time in my life when calling a state's board of cosmetology to rat out some nasty salon was the highlight of my week). Needless to say, I am quite a fan of "Tabatha's Salon Takeover" and her kick-ass ability to whip a staff into shape.

During the event I'm going to be very busy working, but I do hope to find time to run around McCormick Place and see some of the other booths. The long list of exhibitors includes Moroccan Oil, Make Up Designory, Bioelements, Crown Brush, and many more vendors of beauty products and professional supplies. I am eagerly looking forward to getting my hands on TONS of new products to try out and blog about.
http://www.americasbeautyshow.com/ATTENDEES/ExhibitorList/tabid/63/Default.aspx
I'll be posting lots of pictures next week!

Naduah's big no-no

2010-03-19T22:58:00.001-05:00

I have fallen in and out of love with America's Next Top Model more often than I have colored my hair. When I heard that Andre Leon Talley was coming on as a judge for cycle 14, I decided it was time to fall in love again. My main issue with the show is that they aren't airing enough of the photo shoot preparation footage anymore, which is probably because most of the audience is more interested in the stupid catfights between the girls than they are interested in who is doing all that funky stuff to their hair.
The ethnically diverse ladies of cycle 14 are an eclectic mix of crazy hot and just plain crazy. When I first saw Naduah I was amazed by her flawless skin and bone structure, and the shaved head made her stand out with an edgy look that none of the other girls had. I immediately picked Naduah as one of my favorites and just KNEW she would be in the top three, but that adoration was short lived. I didn't think her photos were as mediocre as the judges did, but there was something else about her that bothered me immensely and it wasn't mentioned at her elimination.
During a shoot, she waited until the makeup artist was finished with his work, went to the other side of the room, and changed her makeup.
Oh. No. She. Didn't.
I had a hot flash, clutched my pearls, and fell off the sofa.

Dear Naduah,
why did you have to go out like that??? Major mistake, girlfriend. I love you and your look is stunning, but if the art director tells the makeup artist what to do and then you go and adjust it to YOUR liking, you are making US look incompetent and unprofessional as artists. Not to mention that it makes you look like an unpleasant diva on the set. Don't get passed over for gigs because people may perceive you as a nitpicker who is difficult to work with. You are too pretty for that.
Best of luck,
D.

skin-softening body scrub by St. Ives

2010-03-13T15:54:00.000-06:00

St. Ives Mineral Therapy Body Polish is a paraben-free, mineral-rich, sugar scrub that is great for exfoliating in the shower or bath. The marine-inspired scent is gender-neutral, and the dry-down just smells fresh and clean. Spring is coming, so it's time to slough off the winter dryness before the sleeves we wear get shorter and the shoes get strappier. This is a great quick fix for polishing trouble spots (like elbows and feet) to reveal new, softer skin.

As I've said before, when my guy loves a product, it must be worthy of mentioning here. The Dude is clearly hooked on the Body Polish. Sometimes the vast amount of product that accumulates in our bathroom is insane, and I have a tendency to go through and eliminate them all at once. I just have to rearrange shelves and cabinet space to make room for more stuff, and things get lost in the shuffle or thrown in the trash. So last week when he asked for it, I honestly could not remember what happened to the scrub. This sent him into a minor panic, and I then realized how much he loved the stuff. (By the way, it wasn't in the trash... I had just moved it to a different shelf during my cleaning frenzy... crisis averted.)
This scrub is Dude-approved.
St. Ives is available at Walgreen's and drugstores everywhere.

J'adore Guerlain!

2010-03-11T17:37:00.001-06:00

Everyone knows that Guerlain makes incredible bronzers, and some makeup artists call them the best in the industry, but how much do you really know about the rest of the line? Recently I met Marcus Monson, the national celebrity artist for Guerlain Cosmetics, and he's an absolute doll to chat with! We have seen his talents in publications all over the world, and on the faces of A-list celebrities including the stunning Oscar-winner Hilary Swank! Marcus and I had some laughs and shared some makeup secrets, while he gave me a brief history of the oldest cosmetic line in the world.
In 1828, Guerlain was founded by a world renowned chemist and perfumer who had created fragrances for many of the most elegant royal families in Europe. People who only know about the Terracotta Bronzers and the Shalimar fragrance may be surprised to learn that Guerlain also created the popular drugstore skin care brand Nivea a century ago. Along with their many innovations and contributions to the modern world of fragrance and skin care, the makeup is so exquisitely packaged that you can't wait to pull that fancy compact of your bag! Marcus says that each item is intended to be a little bit of luxury for the makeup junkie in all of us. The lipstick cases and perfume bottles are works of art, inspired by precious metals and gemstones, and created specifically for Guerlain by some of the world's most talented sculptors, architects, and jewelry designers.

Meteorites Perles Light Diffusing Perfecting Primer is my personal favorite product in the line. The packaging is divine, and the tiny pearls in the bottle draw your attention immediately when you look at the makeup counter. These pearls dissolve in a skin perfecting fluid that diffuses the light, minimizes large pores, masks discoloration in the skin, and absorbs oil to keep you from appearing too shiny. The pearlescent-but-matte finish makes skin glow before adding foundation, and I have worn it alone on days when I'm not wearing any other makeup to add luminosity to my skin.
L'Or Radiance Concentrate with Gold is another outstanding foundation primer by Guerlain. Just like the Perfecting Primer eliminates discoloration, the genuine gold flakes suspended in this primer give skin a golden glow that is instantly visible.
Marcus referred to it as "7 milliliters of 24 karat gold" that is guaranteed to reflect the light and leave the skin dewy and radiant. The moisturing gel formula leaves skin 112% more hydrated (!!!) after two hours, neutralizes redness, and minimizes lines. All of these qualities make it the perfect skin primer for dry or mature skin types.
Both of these primers soothe your skin with a light cooling sensation when applied, feel completely weightless, and keep your face fabulous all day long.
Guerlain is available at fine retailers like Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus.

ExfoliKate for glowy, luminous skin!

2010-02-27T19:41:00.000-06:00

I just used my last bit of ExfoliKate and I think I'm going to cry. Kate Somerville is the Hollywood guru of radiant red-carpet skin and the owner/director of Kate Somerville Skin Health Experts, a world-class med-spa in Los Angeles. Now that Kate Somerville's line is available nationwide, flawless movie-star skin has become a bit more accessible to everyone. I think entire line is fantastic, but my absolute must-have is ExfoliKate. This intense exfoliating treatment is suitable for all skin types, and her website claims it is "the next best thing to seeing Kate in the clinic."

In two minutes, ExfoliKate gives my skin that post-facial glow that makes me want to skip makeup entirely for the next week and a half. The primary scent is very tropical because one of the key ingredients is papaya. It contains fruit enzymes and lactic acid, which act together to gently remove dead skin cells and kill surface bacteria. (ExfoliKate is GREAT for acne-prone skin.) Although it does have a grainy scrub-like texture, ExfoliKate is meant to be used more like a clarifying mask, since the papaya extract and fruit enzymes are already sloughing off dead skin and eating away at the gunk in your pores. Don't continue to swirl it around in a scrubby motion, because too much manipulation of the skin can be irritating. The motion of rubbing the mask onto the skin gently polishes the surface sufficiently. I apply to my slightly damp skin, leave it on for a minute, and after rinsing it off the results are immediately visible. I highly recommend this product to every single one of my clients and I cannot say enough good things about it.

Kate Somerville's phenomenal skin care is used at the Trump Spa here in Chicago, but if you prefer DIY facial treatments, you can always order online or stop into the nearest Neiman Marcus. ExfoliKate retails for 85 dollars.
http://www.katesomerville.com/

Vogue Italia brings diversity to the fashion world

2010-02-26T20:53:00.001-06:00

Vogue Italia has launched two groundbreaking new websites, Vogue Black and Vogue Curvy. Photographer Steven Meisel shot editorials for both sites, and they contain a treasure trove of beautiful images showing the work of some of the world's best makeup artists. Vogue Curvy features a video interview with plus-model Lizzie Miller, and Vogue Black has a Grace Jones clip that I almost died for. The overall content is both fashion-forward and awe-inspiring.
I nearly turned blue in the face while holding my breath in excitement waiting for the release of last year's Vogue Italia Black Issue, because when it was announced it just sounded too good to be true. My sister and I executed a multi-city newsstand quest until she happily found it, and it was like discovering one of Willy Wonka's Golden Tickets. The Black Issue was only carried in limited markets and it was selling out rapidly all over the world. Some people were bidding well over 100 dollars in eBay auctions. Once it was finally in my hands, I briefly became "Gollum" and clutched The Precious to my chest, rocking back and forth, while guarding The Precious with my life.

How sad is that?

The recent tragic death of Alexander McQueen has helped to revive discussions of diversity in modeling. McQueen was widely recognized for his esoteric designs and theatrical runway extravaganzas, and drew plenty of attention from critics regarding his "controversial casting" decisions for his fashion week presentations. His use of Paralympic athlete Aimee Mullins and curvier models like Sophie Dahl made some people scratch their heads and others roll their eyes, but everyone definitely noticed.
Having met Aimee back in DC, I can honestly tell you that she's one of the most dynamic and charismatic people I have ever been in a room with. Aimee was one of those familiar faces I'd see around Georgetown who was always cool, but I didn't notice that her legs were fake until someone pointed it out to me. Aimee, who has walked on prosthetic legs most of her life, was on the Georgetown University track team. Her signature walk doesn't bring to mind anyone who needs special treatment or assistance... rather it appeared to me as if she exudes such positivity that she skips when she walks down the street. Aimee once walked down Alexander McQueen's runway in a breathtaking pair of Victorian-inspired hand-carved wooden boots, which many didn't even realize were actually custom made prosthetic legs. It really reinforces the fact that the word "handicapped" is as dated and laughable as the word "beta-max." You wonder how anyone can seriously use disabled to describe a woman who went from being a world-class athlete to walking for one of the world's most legendary fashion designers.

Which brings me to my point...
Why does beauty still have to be separated and micro-managed into sub-genres?
The entire world is ready to see more casting variety in the fashion industry, but until the industry embraces that concept as a whole, it is truly necessary to maintain some sort of individual vehicles for those of us who need to see it NOW. This year at New York Fashion Week, spectators in the tents reportedly saw more than 85 percent Caucasian catwalkers on the runways. Black and Asian models popped up here and there, but Latinas were almost totally invisible, roughly making up about 1 percent of all the models seen during the shows. Ouch. Vogue Black and Vogue Curvy are definitely both arriving right on time. Someday society will evolve to a point where no one will say, "Mia Tyler is gorgeous... for a curvy girl." Why can't you just admit "Mia Tyler is a stone cold fox" and leave the size thing out of it?

I've said it before, and I will say it again. I am still hopeful that someday the fashion industry will embrace all types of beauty, and with such frequency that it becomes de rigueur, and we will no longer have to be shocked and surprised when we see it.
http://www.vogue.it/en/vogue-curvy and http://www.vogue.it/en/vogue-black.

huge LORAC sale on HauteLook for the next 48 hours...

2010-02-24T11:09:00.000-06:00

I'm talking about individual shadows that normally retail for 18 bucks - and are marked down to only 4 dollars.
Lip Polish for 70% off!!!
Yes... thank me later.

http://www.hautelook.com/catalog/1983

my sister is on "Jeopardy" tomorrow!!

2010-02-23T15:10:00.000-06:00

Yeah, I know this has NOTHING to do with makeup or skin care... but I gotta brag anyway. My sister Leslie and I have been trying to outnerd each other since birth. Every year we both take the Jeopardy exam and compare answers afterwards. This year she actually got called back! Leslie went to tape the show right before Christmas, so we have been waiting for weeks to see this. You may have even already spotted her on a couple of Jeopardy Contestant Search commercials. She stood out from the rest because she was the only nerd sassy enough to rock a red leather jacket.

So set your DVR to watch Leslie and that big beautiful brain of hers!

(She's the one with the drink.)

words from the master

2010-02-19T00:55:00.000-06:00

"Beauty is about perception, not about make-up. I think the beginning of all beauty is knowing and liking oneself. You can't put on make-up, or dress yourself, or do you hair with any sort of fun or joy if you're doing it from a position of correction."

Kevyn Aucoin

my latest addiction - cocoa butter lip balm

2010-02-10T21:08:00.001-06:00

I recently discovered that the same people who make Palmer's Cocoa Butter make a lip balm and I couldn't wait to try it out. Back in the day, my mom used the old school cocoa butter stick on my little scabby knees, and what kid doesn't like running around smelling like chocolate?
The main ingredients in Palmer's Lip Butter are cacao seed butter and vitamin E which infuse your lips with yummy chocolatey softness! My lips stayed moisturized for hours without feeling greasy or waxy. The peppermint oil in the balm makes your lips tingle and freshens breath naturally...and since it's only about 3 dollars at my corner Walgreen's, Palmer's lip balm is a steal compared to the department store brands.
The dark chocolate and peppermint flavor reminds me of those Thin Mint cookies I used to sell door-to-door, so it's like having cookie lips without the calories of the actual cookie. Major Bonus!
I've been wearing it day and night, alone and under lipstick, and I'm completely hooked.

she put the "bee" in subtle

2010-02-04T18:19:00.000-06:00

I hope that you all find this tongue-in-cheek makeup tutorial as hilarious as I do, because I've already watched it about ten times. She describes step-by-step how to do a "light" makeup application to "get that natural look like Lil Kim" is wearing these days...
"There... I don't look like I've had too much plastic surgery, do I??"

Roxanna Floyd, NYC-based makeup artist, dies

2010-02-02T15:20:00.000-06:00

The makeup community suffered a major loss this weekend with the death of Roxanna Floyd, one the biggest and best in the industry. Ms. Floyd's work has been seen on over 200 covers during her career, on supermodels and iconic celebrities, and in some of the most well-known photographs of our generation. Many of those images were shot by legendary world class photographers like David LaChappelle, Annie Leibovitz , and Herb Ritts.
Yoko Ono was her first celebrity client, and Roxanna's die-hard fan club included Angela Bassett, Halle Berry, Whitney Houston, and Diana Ross. Ms. Floyd's amazing work has been seen in countless films and music videos over the last twenty years. She was the artist who created the retro-perfect 1960's bat-winged eye and pearly-pink lip combo that I loved on "Motormouth Maybelle" in Hairspray(2007).
Her years of professional expertise led to a business collaboration with her longtime client Queen Latifah, and Roxanna Floyd became the Creative Consultant for CoverGirl's Queen Collection.

MUA Sam Fine remembers Roxanna here... http://www.essence.com/fashion_beauty/commentary/commentary_sam_fine_remembers_roxanna_fl.php#comments

an eyelid primer that REALLY works

2010-02-02T14:31:00.001-06:00

I carry at least three of Laura Mercier's Eye Basics in my work kit at all times. Eye Basics are crease-proof lid primers, with a water resistant formula that holds shadow in place all day. While most lines only offer a single universal eye primer, Laura Mercier has come up with a wide range of shades to awaken tired eyes of every color. Natural clay gives the formula a silky, matte texture than can't be creased or smudged on even the oiliest lids. Vitamins A, C, and E work synergistically with botanicals to provide antioxidant protection while also soothing irritation around the eyelid area. The familiar lipgloss-like packaging has a wand which makes Eye Basics easy for a normal person to apply directly to the lid, so you all don't have to be fancy and use a brush like I do.

Many cosmetics companies are selling eye primers with a pearlized or shimmer finish, but mature and dry skin types tend to hold shimmer in the creases and fine lines, making eye wrinkles appear deeper. Eye Basics have a semi-matte finish that is friendly to eyelids of all ages. It is not meant to be used as an undereye concealer, so don't even try it. (It is a lid primer and brightener, so it doesn't have the same dewy, hydrating feel as something formulated for under your eyes.)
Most of the shades offered in the line match up with natural skin tones, with the exception of eyebright. This pale blue shade is fantastic as a color corrector for discoloration on the lid. Those of you who are more adventurous and confident with your makeup skills should try that one out as your starting point for a grey or navy smokey eye.
Another bonus about this product is that you don't have to put shadow over it. Eye Basics can be worn alone to brighten dark and puffy eyelids, so you can finish your eyes with a coat of mascara and call it a day.
Eye Basics retail for 24.00 and can be found at Nordstrom or online at http://www.lauramercier.com.

Vaya con dios, Betty

2010-01-27T17:11:00.006-06:00

The ABC network cancellation of "Ugly Betty" was announced earlier this afternoon.
As a brown girl in the fashion/beauty industry and a lifelong Friend of The Gays, I was a "Betty" fan from the very first episode!
"Ugly Betty" was not just a great comedy. It also addressed issues pertaining to race, body image, and gender politics that many shows would not even dare to touch, and had one of the most diverse casts EVER in the history of television.
Her Thursday night ratings were great, even against the NBC monster hit "30 Rock." After winning many awards and praise from critics everywhere, ABC made the choice to move "Betty" twice in one season. I lost track of the moves and didn't know what night of the week to look for it. I'm not one to cry "conspiracy" but the show was doomed as soon as ABC moved it to the show-killing graveyard of Friday night TV. I've always felt maybe that show was a little too ethnic and way too GAY for a network owned by The Disney Corporation.

I'm going to miss lusting over Wilhemina's wardrobe. I also loved Hilda's "round-the-way" girl style, and the way she rocked those oversized door-knocker earrings like it was 1990 all over again.
Most of all I will miss Amanda and her goofy one-liners.
Here's one of my favorite Amanda Tannen moments, when she entertains the congregation with one of the most inappropriate wedding songs ever of all time...

Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation

2010-01-26T18:01:00.002-06:00

The "InStyle 2009 Best Beauty Buy" winner, Luminous Silk, gives skin a perfectly smooth finish. Giorgio Armani's award-winning foundations are a favorite of luxury makeup junkies and red-carpet makeup artists alike.
Luminous Silk has a buildable sheer to medium coverage, and covers trouble spots while mimicking the appearance of dewy, clear skin. The formula feels hydrating and glides effortlessly onto the face, but it is oil-free. Armani Beauty has patented "Micro-Fil" technology, which basically means that the silicone-based formula minimizes the appearance of large pores and fine lines.
The airtight pump keeps what's inside the bottle fresh so it doesn't dry out or get contaminated. Of course, the packaging is sleek and sexy... What else would you expect from Mr. Armani?
When making your purchase, don't get confused about the colors. The number system that Armani uses to label each shade does NOT necessarily match up exactly with other foundation formulas in the line. I have been known to fluctuate seasonally between 8 and 9.5 in Luminous Silk, but I wear a 6 in Face Fabric, Armani's sheer-matte foundation.

My only complaint about the line is that the undertones get more golden the darker the foundation gets. While there is an outstanding variety of colors towards the Vanilla end of the spectrum, I sometimes have to mix about a half-pump of my #9 with the same amount of a sheer pink tint in order to match my winter complexion. There are NO Luminous Silk shades for darker women with cool to red undertones, and it's easy for darker women to end up with what I call "Ernie-face" - that orange complexion which only flatters lovable Muppets. I'll put it in ice cream terms so everyone can understand - Butter Pecan, Dulce de Leche, and Toffee girls can get away with Luminous Silk. If you're Double Chocolate Deluxe, go for the Face Fabric - it has a more neutral undertone.
The skin care and makeup line is fantastic - now they need to go back to the drawing board and work on improving those mediocre makeup brushes.

Luminous Silk retails for 58 dollars, and it is worth every cent. Armani Cosmetics can be found at Saks, Nordstrom, or shop online at http://www.giorgioarmanibeauty-usa.com/_us/_en/makeup/face/foundation-primer/luminous-silk-foundation.htm

PETA says "Ink, not mink"

2010-01-08T00:04:00.003-06:00

Sex sells everything from cars to beer. We have become desensitized to seeing women in various states of undress in advertisements on billboards and city buses everywhere. Apparently the only thing a naked guy can promote is underwear. PETA's decade old "I'd rather go naked than wear fur" campaigns have famously featured nude supermodels, socialites, and starlets. How an organization that prides itself on forward thinking and radical activism can be so blatantly sexist is a mystery to me. Hmmmm... maybe girls are the only ones who care about the cute, cuddly animals because we're all, like, nurturing and maternal and stuff...?

PETA is has made showing skin to stand up for animal rights an equal employment opportunity.

I'm a lifelong basketball fan, and I have always thought that power forward Amare Stoudemire of the Phoenix Suns is pretty awesome. Those of you who may know me personally and are aware of my obsession with the NBA2K franchise for X-box (or have been unfortunate enough to play against me), probably know Amare has been the power forward on my last three customized super-squads. Yes - I am that kind of nerd.
Amare is stripping down to support PETA, featured bare-chested and showing off his tats in a recent "INK, NOT MINK" ad campaign. Last year started off with the lingering stench of a huge scandal surrounding the mistreatment of animals by a professional athlete. This could not be more timely and appropriate of a reminder that not all jocks are jerks. Could this mean that big tough guys care about the cute, fluffy animals too? Really???
I wonder what he uses to exfoliate...

V#63 preview - part 3

2010-01-07T23:54:00.000-06:00

I'm an avid follower of the burlesque scene, and New York entertainer Miss Dirty Martini is an amazing performer. I talked to her after a couple of shows and this broad is absolutely hysterical. Her act perfectly combines the comedic elements of vaudeville with the baudy art of the tease, earning her titles like the "Sexpot Sophisticate" and praise from magazines such as TimeOut NewYork. Not to mention Dirty's got a rockin' style like a new-millenium Mae West, and you all know I love that vintage glamour. Two snaps, a twist, and a kiss to Peter Philips of Chanel for that makeup!

Dirty Martini is featured in V Mag this month, photographed in Chanel, and shot by Karl Lagerfeld... the same guy who went on record saying skinny people look better in his clothing. I'm so confused.
http://models.com/v-magazine/v-size-4.html

a softening moisturizer treatment for all skins

2010-01-07T17:20:00.003-06:00

Dr. Perricone Face Finishing Moisturizer is simply fantastic. This lightweight cosmeceutical lotion is wonderful for sensitive skin and even soothing enough for people with rosacea. It has a barely noticeable scent and no-frills packaging that is totally guy-friendly. Face Finishing Moisturizer uses patented ingredient DMAE to provide maximum firming and anti-wrinkle benefits. Vitamin C ester and alpha-lipoic acid combine to give antioxidant protection and minimize pores, while also improving the texture and resilience of the skin. I saw results almost immediately.
Dr. Perricone is just as famous for his bestselling skin care as he is for books promoting healthy lifestyles. His philosophy that beauty comes from the inside out has led to him to create a line of vitamin supplements that promote all-over health, in addition to making your skin glow. Normally I lean to the oily side of combination skin, but this evil midwestern deep freeze has given me quite a bit of surface dehydration. I'm always worried that using a heavier moisturizer for the winter months will just make me greasy and break me out. The texture of this moisturizer is a creamy lotion, but it absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving any shine. My skin looks dewy and radiant. The hot pink spots on my cheeks from my Chicago subzero-windburn were less noticeable right away! I've been using it for the past three weeks, so if I were going to break out, I would have already done so. The only drawback is that is does not contain a suncreen, but it feels light enough on the skin to top it off with a spf lotion or foundation of your choice. It retails for 65 dollars, but a small amount (dime size or less) goes a long way.
You can find Dr Perricone at Neiman Marcus, Sephora and online at http://www.perriconemd.com/category/best+sellers.do

advice from your "Auntie Mame"

2010-01-06T16:25:00.001-06:00

"Taking joy in living is a woman's best cosmetic."

Rosalind Russell

so wrong on so many levels

2010-01-04T19:21:00.000-06:00

WOW... I'm all pumped from all the positive messages about accepting all kinds of beauty and now I see this.
I am speechless.
http://www.cnn.com/2010/LIVING/personal/01/04/dating.site.overweight/index.html

V Magazine January 2010 preview - part 2

2009-12-31T15:35:00.005-06:00

I have got to start this one off by bowing down to makeup artist Frank B, because that red lip look he created is just stunning. His work here is amazing and every woman in this editorial has skin that looks glowy and flawless.
The entire creative team, from photographer Solve Sundsbo to the "diva fans" blowing that sexy hair styled by Esther Langham, did an outstanding job.

V Magazine is really breaking new ground with this issue. Too bad it's such a big deal that the world gets excited over one plus-model issue, much in the same way we swooned over the Vogue Italia Black Issue. Maybe it is a sign they should do editorials like these more often.
http://models.com/v-magazine/v-size-2.html

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
EDIT: The jewelry in this editorial was designed by my friend, Dana Lorenz, creator of Fenton/Fallon jewelry!!!
If you haven't heard of Dana yet, you may have also seen her designs on Blake Lively, Rihanna, and FLOTUS Michelle Obama.
Fenton/Fallon is available at Barney's New York.

new years eve buzzkills

2009-12-31T12:50:00.003-06:00

* Ladies who wear orgasmically high heels one night of the year - pumps that they just bought, have not broken in, and can't walk in. Yes... I am laughing at you, not with you. There is nothing wrong with a sexy flat or kitten heeled boot. You look ridiculous dancing in the club barefoot.

* Guys that insist on opening the champagne because they think it looks chivalrous in front of the ladies, but then it becomes a fizzy mess. Chivalry is letting me open the bottle properly because I won't spill a drop.

* Drunk drivers. Don't be morons... Doesn't every respectable corner of civilization have free cabs, or trains, or buses tonight?

That's it. Have fun. See you next year.

how to get kissed at midnight

2009-12-31T12:34:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year, Mes Amis... and Happy Birthday, Leslie! In exactly twelve hours we will be partying our way into a new decade, so here are my tips to help get you ready, and hopefully keep you from looking like a train wreck in the morning.

Fellas, if you think you're gonna get kissed at midnight, breath mints are the most obvious party favor... but please for the love of god exfoliate your lips. Crusty, flaky, winter-dry lips are disgusting. Gently scrub using an old toothbrush with a little Vaseline on it, and top it off with your lip balm of choice. Burt's Bees is a very popular remedy for dry lips, and very Dude-friendly without all the scent and shimmer. Do not leave the house to go party without aforementioned lip balm, because drinking alcohol can dry your lips out, and nobody wants to kiss a raisin.

Ladies, that plan on partying til the wee hours of the morning...
Long-wearing lip colors and stains are my best friend on big party nights when there is champagne involved. Avoid the gooey telltale lipstains on your champagne glasses by opting for a pink or berry tinted stain. Try Benefit Posie Tint or Lorac Sheer Wash. I used the Lorac on my wedding day, so it's Party-Tested And Wedding-Proof. Both of these are double duty products that can be used as sheer lip OR cheek stain for the long lasting color. After applying to your lips, top it off with a clear gloss for extra shine or a hydrating balm like 8 Hour Cream for extra moisture. If you decide not to wear lashes, don't forget your waterproof mascara and eyeliner, so you don't end up looking tragic in your blackberry photos. For help with your lashes, go back a few posts to http://smoothlikebuttababy.blogspot.com/2009/10/put-on-lovely-lashes-for-halloween.html.

an old school favorite is a winter must-have

2009-12-27T15:08:00.000-06:00

8 Hour Cream by Elizabeth Arden is a fix-all product, a staple in a lot of makeup artists kits, and has been a perennial favorite on Allure's "Best of Beauty" list.
I was once told in a product training this skin cream "heals everything but a broken heart" and they were right.
I keep it in my purse for my severely chapped hands when the Chicago cold makes my skin so dry it cracks. It is fantastic on notorious trouble spots like ashy knees, scaly feet, rough elbows and dry peeling lips. If you like a lighter formula the 8 Hour Cream is also available in a sheer tinted lip balm in a tube. Both of these formulas can be used on scrapes, cuts, and minor burns in the same way you would use Neosporin or similar ointments. One of my personal favorite ways to use 8 Hour Cream is as a healing moisturizer for my jacked-up cuticles.
It may feel gooey like Vaseline when you first put it on your hands, but it absorbs quickly and doesn't feel greasy. The smell is slightly medicinal at first, but it fades after a while, and my cuticles look so much better I don't care what my hands smell like. The Lip Protectant and Skin Cream both retail for 17.00. That's not bad at all... especially for a product that eliminates the need for so many things in your toiletry cabinet.

8 Hour Cream can be found at Ulta Stores or EA Red Door Spas everywhere.

Who Rocked It?

2009-12-25T14:40:00.001-06:00

Crystal Renn has walked the catwalk for Jean-Paul Gaultier and appeared in Dolce and Gabbana campaigns, and is the world's highest paid plus model. In the V Magazine January 2010 issue shot by Terry Richardson, she is smoking "haute" styled in exactly the same outfits as the typically slim high-fashion model, Jacquelyn Jablonski. Jacquelyn is also a very pretty girl, but the shoot is showing that skinny people aren't the only ones who can wear couture. Keep in mind that in the fashion industry "plus" doesn't always mean voluptuous - it just means you are more than size 8.
So here is Crystal Renn versus Jacquelyn Jablonski... and the winner, by TKO is...?

http://models.com/v-magazine/v-size-1.html

smashbox and tori... OMG

2009-12-25T14:23:00.001-06:00

Smashbox has just released a new beauty kit inspired by the new Tori Amos album, Midwinter Graces. "Pink and Glitter" is named after Tori's first single from the album (which I love, by the way) and the kit contains a highlighter/blush duo, an eyeshadow, and a lip gloss. All of the shades are in the peach-pinky range, with pearl and shimmer finishes that will compliment the majority of skintones.

The limited edition four piece set is valued at seventy dollars but retailing for $32 online.

http://www.smashbox.com/ToriAmos?spMailingID=34492984&spUserID=OTQ4MTg1MjYzS0&spJobID=62497071&spReportId=NjI0OTcwNzES1

photoshopped "anti-aging skin care" ad banned

2009-12-18T15:17:00.001-06:00

It doesn't take the brilliance of a genius to decide that the best way to market an age-defying eye cream is to get a supermodel in the ad... especially an older one that women of a certain age can relate to. However... airbrushing the life out of said supermodel's face to the point where she looks poreless and plastic just to get rid of a few crows feet??? That's more than just a bit tacky.

Older women have lines on their faces sometimes. Even Twiggy. Get over it.
Apparently the digitally smoothed-over Olay ad has been controversial enough to be banned in England for being "socially irresponsible" and potentially misleading the public into believing it's a miracle brow lift in a jar, when actually the only miracle is that it even mildly resembles Twiggy anymore.

http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/beauty/twiggys-photoshopped-olay-ads-banned-in-england-554961/

homemade spa-inspired gifts for the holidays

2009-12-02T13:21:00.000-06:00

Avoid the hassle of dealing with crazy people, fighting for parking spots, and potentially ruining your holiday cheer. Instead of spending money on overpriced presents for everyone, why not make them yourself? All you need are some basic, easy to find ingredients.
One of the benefits of making your own bath salts and scrubs is knowing that you have fresh, pure, environmentally-conscious ingredients. You don't have to worry that your products have been boxed in a warehouse and shelved for months and months before you purchased them. Unless you planning on giving your puppy a fruity smelling bath, you know it hasn't been tested on animals either. If you have 12 nieces and 5 aunts to give gifts to, you can easily increase the individual ingredients in increments that will give you high-yield batches.
Here are some DIY gifts that can be made in your kitchen and packed into pretty, personalized jars.

Glycerin and Honey Sugar Scrub
1 cup sugar (or loose salt for a deeper exfoliation)
3-4 tablespoons liquid glycerin (*If you prefer liquid texture instead of a creamy scrub, add more glycerin.)
1 teaspoon pure honey
4-5 drops of your favorite essential oil
optional: lavender buds, chamomile blossoms, rose petals, or any finely chopped dried herbs of your choice
Mix well and store in an airtight container. Easy. The honey acts as a preservative, so it can stay in your bathroom cabinet for a very long time. It's great for elbows, knees, feet, and other dry, rough spots!
Stir or shake thoroughly before each use.

Grapefruit Exfoliating Salt Scrub
1/2 cup fine sea salt
1/2 cup fine mineral salt
8 ounces macadamia nut oil (If you like, you can substitute sweet almond or hazelnut instead of macadamia as your carrier oil.)
40 drops (roughly two tablespoons) grapefruit oil
20 drops lemon oil
10 drops ylang ylang oil
Stir scented oils into macadamia nut oil. Add the salts and mix well. Pour into a hinged or airtight sealing jar. You're done.

You can always alter the scent formula to suit the person you are making it for. For example: while you may like a rejuvenating rosemary-mint scent combo, my fellow stressballs need more calming scents like sandalwood and vetiver. Most essential oils can be found at health food stores and places like Whole Foods, and liquid glycerin is usually on the shelf next to cocoa butter and Vaseline. You should never apply undiluted essential oils or absolutes directly to the skin. This is why each recipe dilutes the essential oil with a carrier oil. There are a handful of oils and herbs (such as marjoram) that should never be given to pregnant women, so stick with the lavender and rosy scents while making gifts for them. If you have any questions about any essential oil contraindications, check out www.naha.org or www.aromaweb.com.
SO - now all you have to do is hit a craft store for some pretty bottles, jars, stickers, and ribbon so you can wow your friends with your insanely super-crafty jar-decorating skills.

red, red, wine (lips)

2009-11-19T19:52:00.005-06:00

This color NEVER leaves my purse.

It's about time the nude lip loses its stronghold on the makeup community. I'm not saying that I hate a shimmery beige lip, but I have always loved the retro look.
A lot of women have serious hangups about wearing strong colors on their lips, but there really is a perfect red out there for everyone. It can be shocking to see yourself in color that dramatic and sometimes you have to ease yourself into it. Before you shop for a red lip, take a second to think about what you want before you drive the makeup counter manager up the wall with your indecisiveness. A few things you should consider beforehand...
Do you want sheer or opaque coverage?
Are you more likely to wear a shiny gloss or creamy lipstick?
Do you prefer a finish that is pearl, shimmer, matte, or creme?
Choosing a true red with great pigment that will not fade to pink, orange, or fuchsia can be hard for the average person, so here are some of my favorites.

Chanel Equinoxe Glossimer is a very sheer, subtle, shimmery red gloss that is good for all skin tones. Don't judge it when you see it in the tube!!! Nobody ever looks bad in this gloss. Glossimers are never sticky or gooey, and this shade is perfect for the woman who is nervous about making a commitment to trying something vampy for the first time or nervous about wearing a va-va-voom daytime lip.
Shu Uemura RD165 is a patented red pigment used to create the most famous color in the whole line. The shade is so popular RD165 comes in five formats: Rouge Unlimited (opaque lipstick - shimmer, creme, or matte), Lipvinyl (high shine gloss), Supreme Shine (high shine lipstick), and Gloss Unlimited (vivid sheer gloss). If you go to any Shu counter and ask for THE red, they should know exactly what you mean.
Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil is really a moisturizing lipstick in a fat crayon format for the girl who wants a very matte, high pigment, pin-up vixen lip. I particularly love the shades Cruella (on olive skin) and Dragon Girl (on fair to light tones). Attention Facebook Fans - look under the NOTES section for a coupon code for NARS online shopping!
Vincent Longo Perfect Shine Lipgloss in Costa Fiore (above photo) is ALWAYS in my purse. It's the perfect opaque deep red lipgloss for olive to dark skin tones. One time a hair stylist went too crazy with the highlights around my face, ruining my whole color scheme, and I couldn't wear my favorite gloss for weeks. I'm still traumatized.

Hope you all like the new page layout. Change is good.

red lips, green hair, and black glitter

2009-11-17T16:34:00.000-06:00

This is one of my favorite photos from backstage at the Get Exposed fashion show last Friday. Kay has only been in Chicago one week and I'm sure we will be seeing more of her! More photos to come...

model: Kay
makeup: Yaby, Shu, OCC
really big hair: Suzy

a thought for today...

2009-11-16T11:24:00.000-06:00

"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and it may be necessary from time to time to give a stupid or misinformed beholder a black eye."
Miss Piggy

hydrate your face for less than 20 bucks

2009-11-16T11:20:00.000-06:00

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Face Lotion has long been a low-budget favorite of mine. It's lovely to have an alternative on those rare occasions that I run out of product, and it doesn't always require a two-hundred dollar spending spree in Neiman's makeup department to get my face properly moisturized. Retailing for less than 15.00 at most drugstores, it's a great value for a dermatologist-recommended multitasking product that has a few of the same key ingredients luxury brand moisturizers have.
Billed as a "multivitamin facial treatment", Healthy Skin Moisturizer contains vitamin B5 to soften and smooth skin, while vitamins A and C give antioxidant protection against environmental damage. It also is loaded with alpha-hydoxy acids to smooth texture and even skin tone, so, yes... you will feel a tingling effect. The lightweight non-greasy formula delivers continuous hydration all day. This moisturizer is non-comedogenic, oil free, and also contains SPF 15. It barely has any fragrance, so if you have a man in your life that is afraid of skin care brands that smell like his grandma, this may also be the right solution for him.
Healthy Skin Moisturizer has been listed in Allure's legendary "Best of Beauty" list on more than one occasion. I had already used it in the past, so a few years ago I recommended it to my struggling undergrad sister, who was trying to be cute but couldn't afford spa facial treatments. Even if she could afford them, she was in a middle-of-nowhere college town with no real shopping or reputable day spas around. I told her to check this stuff out at CVS, and she said her skin has never looked so good. Since I began recommending this moisturizer, I have received many thank-you notes in my email inbox from young (broke) models looking for a low-cost solution to get their skin on the right track for headshots.
Look for it at Target, CVS, and Walgreens stores.

designer mascara knock-offs

2009-11-11T15:22:00.000-06:00

One trip the the corner store will show you that companies like Revlon and Cover Girl are finally redesigning mascara wands to more closely resemble the ones offered by prestige brands in department stores and at specialty boutiques. A good mascara with no flakes, no irritation, and no smudges can be ruined by having a crap-tacular wand.
I am so deeply in love with Chanel's Inimitable mascara, I would have babies and buy a house with it if I could. The brush is covered with tiny spiky bristles instead of the traditional spiral. The unique applicator separates lashes, curls them, and evenly applies lots of the clump-free color, which is formulated to last for hours and hours with no flaking. A reasonably decent version of their spiky flexible brush is found in Maybelline Define-A-Lash, but the mascara itself will leave you applying coat after coat to get the same impact as Inimitable. It's better for a natural "no makeup" look. However, Cover Girl's Lash Blast nails it with a super-black lengthening AND volumizing mascara that doesn't require more than two coats, unless you have a serious addiction. Lash Blast comes in different formulas, all of which have the spiked applicator, and anybody can find one that will work for them.
At this moment I am wearing Revlon's Double Twist, which has the alternate comb-brush-comb-brush applicator, like Chanel's Exceptionnel mascara. My fall allergies have been raging out, complete with runny and itchy eyes, so I thought this would be a good time to put another new mascara to the ultimate test. It stayed on through runny itchy eyes and lots of nose-blowing. The tube doesn't have the word "waterproof" anywhere on it, but removing it can be kind of hardcore. The biggest drawback for me is that the packaging completely sucks, because the brush itself seems bigger than the hole in the tube, so it gets messy and splatters when you dip it. Whoever let an engineering flaw like that go into mass production needs to be fired, because otherwise it would be a great nine dollar substitute for a twenty-five dollar mascara. I'm going to make a blind assumption and guess it was probably a Dude.
The other night I asked my husband how my lashes looked. He said, "Curly. And Thick." That's a good thing, so it's really too bad about the lame packaging.

So... the clear winner here is Cover Girl Lash Blast for having a cool Chanel-like brush, a long wearing formula, great packaging, and being kind to my sensitive eyes.

Maya and Stella are Glamour "Women of the Year"

2009-11-10T19:32:00.002-06:00

"Glamour is... to be beautiful to MYSELF first, and then to those who have enough sense to see me."
-Maya Angelou

Activist, actress, and poet Maya Angelou has just been honored with Glamour Magazine's lifetime achievement award. The Women Of The Year awards were presented at Carnegie Hall in New York City last night. My invitation must have gotten lost in the mail. One of my favorite designers, Stella McCartney, was among this year's list of honorees. Stella was chosen not only for her amazing talents as a designer, but also for her animal activism... and, as if this babe isn't already oozing "fierce" from her every pore, her surprise presenters were Yoko Ono (John's widow), Olivia Harrison (George's widow), and Barbara Starkey (Ringo's wife).
I think it's pretty cool that Glamour has chosen to honor these two particular women who I admire for their art just as much as I admire them for trying to make the world a better place.

So I guess this means Glamour magazine is off my hit list for the time being. If there is one thing (other than makeup) I can tell you I excel at, it is holding a grudge. This is the same magazine whose editor, while speaking of stylish daytime business attire, declared non-chemically processed black hair (afros, dreads, and twists) inappropriate, out of place, and "too militant for the workplace." I wonder if Maya knows about that.
...And I still cannot forget how they digitally altered the the hell out of America Ferrera to the point where she looked like a bobblehead version of herself. It's insulting to America, who is famous for being a little more hippy than the average starlet, and to Latina models who can't get booked. If they wanted a taller, thinner, paler Latina they should have gone to a modeling agency and hired one.
This almost makes up for that stuff.

You can read the full Women of the Year article here.
http://www.glamour.com/women-of-the-year/2009/maya-angelou

musings on microdermabrasion

2009-11-04T05:41:00.003-06:00

As the name of my blog suggests, my main concern is having great skin. In the neverending quest for a flawless complexion, I have become slightly obsessed with the process of exfoliation... mainly because I like wearing makeup to enhance my features, rather than to cover the entire face.

Everybody is asking me questions about microdermabrasion these days. I am a crazy deranged fan of microdermabrasion. If you are planning a trip to the dermatologist or your favorite spa, ask your regular skin care professional if this is right for you! The intense exfoliation process is a fantastic solution for hyperpigmentation, dullness, and visible smoothing of fine line and wrinkles. Microdermabrasion is okay for mild acne, but glycolic and other chemical peels are usually recommended for moderate to severe cases. A common myth is that microdermabrasion is bad for ethnic skin, but I had amazing results with microdermabrasion when I needed old acne pits and scars smoothed away. The actual truth is that darker ethnic skin turns over twice as fast as Caucasian skin, so people of African descent need to exfoliate more to maintain glowing skin. (The AHAs in the serum I use daily under moisturizer keep my skin looking fresh when microdermabrasion is not an option in my monthly budget plan!)
At-home "microdermabrasion" kits are being advertised everywhere right now, but they can lead to more hyperpigmentation and broken capillaries. The professional mechanism is not even close to the one sold in drug stores and beauty retailers. To me, it's the dermatological equivalent of selling double-stick tape and calling it a breast lift. Sure, it's great to use for a quick fix, but are you are not going to get a lasting effect. It's a process that should be done in a dermatologists office or by a licensed aesthetician in a sterile environment. There isn't anything to stop you from over-exfoliating your skin and irritating it beyond repair when you are using a battery-operated swirling loofah on your face. Besides, we all know that alpha and beta hydroxy acids or retinol can be used safely at home (as recommended by a skin care professional) in your daily routine to exfoliate and stimulate cell turnover.

So this is what microdermabrasion REALLY is...
A tiny 2-way vacuum hose roughly the size of a drinking straw is drawn in small strokes across the face, blasting you with tiny sterile exfoliating crystals at full speed, while simultaneously sucking the lifted dead skin and blackheads away into a bag that you probably do NOT want to see the contents of. (It's similar to one of those DIY carpet cleaners advertised on TV, and your face is the grimy carpet.)
In layman's terms, it erodes away a few layers of the epidermis to reveal smoother new skin beneath. The results last about 6 to 8 weeks, depending on your skin type. You will see continued improvement if you make regular appointments with your dermatologist or aesthetician to sustain long term results. Appointment intervals should be based on texture, complexion, and oiliness of the skin.
If you aren't already doing the sunscreen thing daily you'd better start immediately after your appointment, because you are exposing brand new sensitive skin that can damage easily. Personally I think that if you are serious about beginning a series of microderm treatments, the best time to do it is when you know you won't have any prolonged sun exposure... like during a Chicago winter. Although your eyes are covered during the procedure to protect them from the tiny crystals, sometimes you still may end up with a few stray grains in your hairline. The process itself doesn't hurt, but does feel a bit scratchy. (Duh. It's sand in a tube.) The whirring sound of the machine can be more annoying than the actual sensation, but most places have the pretty spa music on to relax you. I have fallen asleep during an appointment before. My first few times were with veteran spa trainer Angela Meredith at the impeccably clean and peaceful Red Door Spa in Washington DC. Angela has a healing touch and radiates zen-like calm that even Yoda would be jealous of.
A session can last anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours, depending on how much skin surface you are covering. Why stop at just the face when you can work it into a back facial and have sexy smooth shoulders for all your strapless gowns? In cities with warm, beachy climates like LA and Miami, high-end spas are even offering pedicures with microdermabrasion so that people who are lucky enough to wear sandals all year long can have feet that are "smooth like butta"... it sounds AMAZING. I have not yet had one of these, but you will be the first to know when I do!

Microdermabrasion generally starts at about 150, and can be done on your lunchbreak if you don't mind going back to work sans makeup and a little bit red in the face.

dove/walmart "campaign for real beauty"

2009-10-29T19:22:00.001-05:00

Check out this new spot airing for the Dove "Campaign for Real Beauty" featuring my friend, Pilar! She's the first AND last gorgeous face on the screen. Dove reminds us in these ads that every woman is beautiful, and that the quirks and flaws we have are to be celebrated!

I loved this idea from the beginning. When the first ads hit the street, I was walking in DC with my sister and she said, "Did you see the chick on the side of that bus? She has thighs like MINE!"
Later came the anti-aging body wash billboards with the hot naked grandmas. It's awesome and fantastic to see mature women represented in a sexy way, without any inhibitions.
These ads inject a heavy dose of realism into the world of beauty advertising, which some folks in the biz think is a bad thing. Yes, I totally agree that fashion is supposed to be fantasy, but you can not ignore the millions and millions of beautiful women who don't fit "the mold" of what is considered to be pretty. I think having a scar like Tina Fey, a gap toothed smile like Lauren Hutton, or super androgynous boy-cut hair like Grace Jones makes a woman stand out from the crowd of Barbie lookalikes as an individual. After being bombarded with retouched images of tall nineteen year olds who weigh about a buck-twenty, showing the beauty of ordinary women helps us all stop beating ourselves up a little bit.

put on lovely lashes for halloween!

2009-10-27T15:23:00.001-05:00

Halloween is my favorite holiday all year long, and I have a trunk full of random wigs and props to prove it.

Whatever costume you choose this year, you are probably going to be looking for a way to do your makeup! This is the one day of the year when we can all dress as outrageous as we want, so there is no better way to vamp it up than by adding a pair of false lashes. Most women do not own lashes of their own, but there is a small percentage of us who have no problem finding an excuse to glue on some "spiders" and go... anywhere.
There are so many types of lashes out there that you can choose a jeweled strip, feathered lashes, or thin wisps that look very natural for daily wear. If you are the type of girl who will wear them one night and toss them, a pair of Andrea or Ardell lashes from your corner drugstore or Sally Beauty Supply will do. Flashier makeup junkies, who will wear a great pair of lashes again and again, should invest in a heavier woven multi-use lash, such as the ones created by Shu Uemura and Makeup Forever. These can be taken off gently, placed back on the tray, and will retain their shape for the next use. However, with a more expensive lash, you do not want to damage it by wearing mascara over them. With any lash you should beware of just ripping them off at the end of the night. I always soften up the glue with a cotton pad saturated with eye makeup remover or baby oil to break down the glue, which eases pulling and stress to the lid and natural lash area.

To apply any lashes, I make sure the eye makeup is perfect first and any cream shadows or gel liners have set completely dry. I follow that with a blackest-black tightline right into and through the base of your natural lash. If you have a steady hand, go for the most drama possible by lining the underside of your natural lash as well.
This is the time at which you are going to curl your lashes and apply mascara, and do so in that order so that your mascara doesn't get stuck on your curler and pull out the lash from the root. I like L'oreal Voluminous, because it's affordable, gives high drama, and looks slightly fake already. (When I wear mascara I want my lashes to be seen from across the street.)
Now, you are ready to add lashes. Remove the lash from the tray and hold it up to your eye, because often companies make them longer than they need to be. If you have to trim them down a few millimeters, just trim the outside edge to match the length of your eyelid. Add glue along the base strip, and give it about 10 seconds to gel a bit. You may want tweezers to hold your lashes for extra stability. Start on the inside part of the eye, closest to the nose, and work to the outer edge, laying them down as close to your natural lash as possible. Most lash glues dry clear, but if you feel it's necessary, go ahead and line the top of the false lash with a thick black line to hide any strips or glue that may still show.
Wait a few seconds for them to dry before you go trying to bat them at somebody for a free drink.

seasonal goodies from Shu Uemura

2009-10-24T01:52:00.001-05:00

Find me a woman who looks bad in this shade of lipstick... no... seriously, I challenge you.

Shu Uemura, one of my favorites, has done it again. The holiday collection is stunning. It's wearable for everyday and has just enough sparkle to glam up any evening holiday party. I'm totally in love with the new palettes designed by Japanese fashion designer Tsumori Chisato. Don't judge a palette by the sparkly anime cover, because this collection can be worn by the both younger and mature clients. Tsumori Chisato for Shu Uemura Planet Ribbon Palette ($65) features a warmer family of colors, while the Shu Uemura Planet Cat Palette ($65) has a cooler, pinkier feel to it. Each palette has three eyeshadows, a cream eyeliner (of which I frequently sing praise and wear daily), a blush, and a shimmery highlighter. If you have heavy yellow undertones like I do, the Planet Cat palette is a great way to break free from the monochromatic earthtones and add brightness. I L_O_V_E the pearlized sheer lavender-periwinkle shadow on olive skin!!!! The coral-bronze blush in Planet Ribbon is so smoking hot, I will be writing a strongly worded and very angry email if it doesn't carry over into next season. As always, all colors can be mixed and used wet or dry get your level of desired coverage.

Jupiter Brown, the lipstick featured above, is also a seasonal limited-time-only deal, so if you love it (and you will), get two. You may not see it ever again. It's a sheer high-shine lipstick somewhere between peach and brown, and has a golden shimmer that is gorgeous on any skin tone. It's a universal nude... They DO exist. Check it out at Nordstrom, Neimans, and online.

such a pretty face!

2009-10-24T01:21:00.000-05:00

This is my favorite raw image from a shoot last week... so crisp but subtly lit. I love working with photographers who understand how to proper light a beauty shot, no matter how soft and minimal it is.

photo by Steve Hudson

makeup by Yaby and Makeup Forever