Hi Dolls!
My blog has moved here. I hope this format allows me to better connect with you guys and offer up more content! Thank you for checking it out!
xoxo,
Alicia
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Birthday Haul- Part I
Well hello Dolls, long time no see!
It has been 3 weeks since my last post. Unacceptable, I know... but my birthday was this month and I took the opportunity to indulge in a few mini beauty hauls for you guys (who am I kidding, I love testing out products!). This is one of my favorite times of the year, not just because I like to celebrate my birthday all month long, but also because cosmetic companies roll out new products. This year was especially eventful with the release of innovative skin care products and makeup that was just way too pretty to resist. Since I purchased quite a few things this month at Ulta, CVS, and Rite Aid, I will be splitting my collective haul into 3 parts: face products, eye & lip products, and hair, skin & nail products. Yes, I purchased THAT. MUCH. I hope the beauty product porn that I will be supplying over the week will make up for my neglectful ways this month.
This post will be devoted to the following face products I picked up this month.
Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder
When I picked up the Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation I also decided to check out the iconic powder that was on the same display. I have always heard great things about this product but for some crazy reason I have never tried it out. I purchased the translucent shade and the hype is on target. This product is drugstore gold! If you are looking for a finely milled setting powder or just need to dull down a shiny t-zone... this is the one and you can snag it for under $5.
It has been 3 weeks since my last post. Unacceptable, I know... but my birthday was this month and I took the opportunity to indulge in a few mini beauty hauls for you guys (who am I kidding, I love testing out products!). This is one of my favorite times of the year, not just because I like to celebrate my birthday all month long, but also because cosmetic companies roll out new products. This year was especially eventful with the release of innovative skin care products and makeup that was just way too pretty to resist. Since I purchased quite a few things this month at Ulta, CVS, and Rite Aid, I will be splitting my collective haul into 3 parts: face products, eye & lip products, and hair, skin & nail products. Yes, I purchased THAT. MUCH. I hope the beauty product porn that I will be supplying over the week will make up for my neglectful ways this month.
This post will be devoted to the following face products I picked up this month.
Benefit The POREfessional & That Girl
I snatched up this mini primer combo while checking out at Ulta and am so happy I did. I had tried The POREfessional long ago and did not remember how much I liked this nude tinted perfecting primer. I have tried countless primers and generally always go back to Smashbox or Hourglass... but I'm really liking The POREfessional this go around and it may have moved its way right back into regular rotation on my vanity. That Gal is a pearly pink brightening primer that may be applied prior to or after makeup application to enhance a skin's radiance. I like using this product on clients with darker skin tones than my own, due to the luminous pinky glow it gives. Lighter skin tones may not see much difference or it may overly enhance rosy complexions (this would be my case). I highly suggest picking up this little trial kit next time you're unloading your overflowing basket at the Ulta counter.
Rimmel Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation
Rimmel Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation
This was my first foray into Rimmel products since the brand first came out years ago. I was sold on the promise of "all day shine control" and "natural matte finish." The best way for me to describe the consistency and coverage of this formula is a lightweight version of Revlon Colorstay Whipped. The finish is very matte (appropriately titled) and will be a great foundation for summer. At the moment, this foundation is a bit too drying for even my oily skin. I love the full coverage and long wear this product gives, but beware, this formula will break up on you after about 8 hours. The shade range was quite limited at the CVS where I picked it up but Rimmel.com lists 8 shades. I purchased shade 103 "True Ivory" and I am not 100% sold on the color. It is not too light or dark, just maybe too pink. I feel like Goldie Locks, something is just not right. When I apply my bronzer and other products it looks fine but I am hoping that by summer I will have a little more color and the shade will match up better. I would recommend this product this spring and summer to oily girls because I think this formula will do battle with the humidity and keep you matte. I believe that this foundation will be way too drying on ladies with combination or dry skin. If you love Revlon's whipped foundation but feel that it may be too heavy at times, check this product out!
Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed PowderWhen I picked up the Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation I also decided to check out the iconic powder that was on the same display. I have always heard great things about this product but for some crazy reason I have never tried it out. I purchased the translucent shade and the hype is on target. This product is drugstore gold! If you are looking for a finely milled setting powder or just need to dull down a shiny t-zone... this is the one and you can snag it for under $5.
Covergirl Outlast 3-in-1 Foundation
Everyone and their mother has been telling me for months to try this foundation but I have resisted due to a particulary traumatic experience with Covergirl cream to powder foundation as a teenager (let's just say my skin hated it and decided to punish me for such a poor choice in foundation). I finally decided to jump on the bandwagon this month after going through my standby Revlon Colorstay. Covergirl claims that this product performs as three products: primer, foundation, and concealer. I skipped primer the first time I wore the foundation and found that the silky texture does remind me of a silicone-based primer but lacks the pore minimizing properties of a primer. Though the coverage is pretty good, it was not opaque enough to be used as a concealer. I'm not sure I agree with the 3-in-1 claim, but this product got one of the three right... it is a great foundation! The finish is natural (not too matte, maybe closer to a satin) and the formula blends out really nicely. There are 14 shades to choose from and this product cost me under $10. The only issues I have with this product are the following: 1.) I had a difficult time finding my shade. The numbering system did not seem to match the progression from light to dark shades, for example, I was torn between two shades and selected the shade 820 Creamy Natural which is a bit darker than 825 Buff Beige. 2.) The color becomes a tad darker when the foundation "sets." Overall I recommend this foundation to anyone looking
Everyone and their mother has been telling me for months to try this foundation but I have resisted due to a particulary traumatic experience with Covergirl cream to powder foundation as a teenager (let's just say my skin hated it and decided to punish me for such a poor choice in foundation). I finally decided to jump on the bandwagon this month after going through my standby Revlon Colorstay. Covergirl claims that this product performs as three products: primer, foundation, and concealer. I skipped primer the first time I wore the foundation and found that the silky texture does remind me of a silicone-based primer but lacks the pore minimizing properties of a primer. Though the coverage is pretty good, it was not opaque enough to be used as a concealer. I'm not sure I agree with the 3-in-1 claim, but this product got one of the three right... it is a great foundation! The finish is natural (not too matte, maybe closer to a satin) and the formula blends out really nicely. There are 14 shades to choose from and this product cost me under $10. The only issues I have with this product are the following: 1.) I had a difficult time finding my shade. The numbering system did not seem to match the progression from light to dark shades, for example, I was torn between two shades and selected the shade 820 Creamy Natural which is a bit darker than 825 Buff Beige. 2.) The color becomes a tad darker when the foundation "sets." Overall I recommend this foundation to anyone looking
Physicians Formula Mineral Wear Airbrushing Bronzer
This would be my favorite face product pick up of the month! This product was actually an impulse buy
(which I rarely do!) when I saw that my local CVS had all Physicians Formula products 40% off I flocked to the items with "New" splashed across the packaging. This talc-free long-wearing powder claims to "deliver sun-kissed color and definition" with an "airbrushed finish," while also "minimizing the appearance of fine lines and pores." Though I am not completely convinced that this product does anything to minimize my large pores, the soft matte finish is very believable.Though I still love my Hoola bronzer for contouring, I have been itching to try out something new and I believe I have come across a winner! I have always loved Physicians Formula bronzers in the past and I have rekindled that love.The best way to describe this beautiful warm bronze powder is creamy and pigmented! The swatch to the right is one swipe across the powder! I was shocked at the smoothness of this powder and the incredible depth of pigmentation. This bronzer feels and looks like a high-end product but I am loving that $13 price tag!
Have you tried out any new face products?! What should I try next?
xoxo,
Alicia
This would be my favorite face product pick up of the month! This product was actually an impulse buy
(which I rarely do!) when I saw that my local CVS had all Physicians Formula products 40% off I flocked to the items with "New" splashed across the packaging. This talc-free long-wearing powder claims to "deliver sun-kissed color and definition" with an "airbrushed finish," while also "minimizing the appearance of fine lines and pores." Though I am not completely convinced that this product does anything to minimize my large pores, the soft matte finish is very believable.Though I still love my Hoola bronzer for contouring, I have been itching to try out something new and I believe I have come across a winner! I have always loved Physicians Formula bronzers in the past and I have rekindled that love.The best way to describe this beautiful warm bronze powder is creamy and pigmented! The swatch to the right is one swipe across the powder! I was shocked at the smoothness of this powder and the incredible depth of pigmentation. This bronzer feels and looks like a high-end product but I am loving that $13 price tag!Have you tried out any new face products?! What should I try next?
xoxo,
Alicia
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
Top 14 New Products of 2014
Hi Dolls!
I hope you all are having a great start to the new year! There are some amazing new products coming out this month and I am so pumped about several innovative products I have read about recently. January is also my birthday month so I will be doing a special haul this month and share with you all of my finds, so stay tuned!
Top 14
Benefit The POREfessional Agent Zero Shine-Vanishing Pro Powder ($30)
Claim: "Benefit's invisible-finish PRO powder helps shrink the look of pores and minimize shine."
I NEED this. NOW. This product has a built-in brush for spill-proof application.
Maybelline Baby Skin Pore Eraser ($6.99)
Claim: "One second to smooth, poreless skin. Get mistake- proof, poreless smooth skin with Maybelline New York Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer."
Some are claiming it is a dupe for Benefit The POREfessional, others say it is a dupe for Smashbox Photo Finish Primer... either way, this product retails for 50% less than the other two brands!
Maybelline Master Hi-Light Powdered Blush/Bronzer ($9.99)
Claim: "Light diffusing Maybelline New York Face Studio Master Hi-Light Blush and Face Studio Master Hi-Light Bronzer formulas have an expert balance of color and shimmer illuminator for a natural glow."
I am intrigued by these! It's a multi-tonal illuminator/bronzer (or blush) combo.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade ($18)
Claim: "Waterproof brow color ideal for sculpting, defining, and carving perfectly precise brows that won't fade."
This oily girl is super pumped about the idea of a waterproof brow product. I love the idea of being able to skip using brow wax and still get the definition and staying power.
Cover Girl TruMagic Skin Perfector Mattifier ($10)
Claim: "Cover Girl's innovative clear formula gives your skin instant matte perfection. Use under, over, or instead of makeup."
There is alot of buzz that this product is a dupe for Mally Face Defender. The formula is very interesting, it not a cream nor a powder. A bronzing and luminizer shade is also available.
L'Oreal Visible Lift CC Eye Concealer ($9.99)
Claim: "The innovative cooling roller ball applicator instantly depuffs under eye bags. Color correcting pigments instantly cover dark circles and brighten the eye area. Caffeine formula corrects all signs of fatigue, including dark circles, bags, puffiness, and fine lines."
This is one of the products I am most excited about! In my skin care regimen, I have been trying to pay special attention to my under eye area, so I cannot wait to test this one out... and (depending on coverage) add this to my routine.
L'Oreal Colour Riche Extraordinary Lip Color ($9.99)
Claim: " Colour Riche Extraordinaire contains five precious micro-oils to create the perfect lip result in one luxuriously comfortable step: resurfaces and smooths lips like a balm, provides colour impact of a lipstick, and gives a varnished 3-d shine effect of a gloss."
Reading about this product, it sounds like it may be a possible dupe for Shiseido Rouge Lacquer, which would be great because I love that product!
Revlon PhotoReady Skinlights ($12.99)
Claim: "Get a healthy glow in any light. Banish dullness and even out skin with light-capturing crystals and photochromatic pigments."
I like that this product comes in several shades. The four shades include: pink light, peach light, bare light, and bronze light. This could be a great product for those who have had a hard time finding a flattering highlighter to compliment their skintone.
Jergens BB Body Perfecting Skin Cream ($11.99)
Claim: "Contains emollients & hydrators + proprietary skin tone eveners to deliver visible results both immediately and in 5 days. Natural Shea butter blend, emollients, and Firm Perfecting™ Complex enhance texture and luminosity."
I am freaking out about this product! I feel like self-tanner looks way too fake this time of year, but I get super pasty and would love luminous glowy skin. This product comes in 2 shades: light and medium-dark.
NYX Blotting Powder (TBA)
No claims yet! This product is too new! I found out about this through the grapevine, and it is already being compared to MAC Blot Powder for half the price. Yesssss.
NYX Butter Lipsticks ($6.00)
Claim: "The unique texture seems to melt onto the lips, giving full, yet lightweight coverage with a luxurious satin finish."
I love NYX Butter Gloss so I am super stoked to try these lipsticks! A friend snatched some up in her local Ulta in North Carolina and I so jelly. They have yet to show up at my local store so I am considering ordering through the NYX site.
It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC Cream with SPF 50+ ($38)
Claim: "Your Skin But Better CC Cream with SPF 50+ is truly a multi-tasking beauty miracle. It's your SPF 50+ UVA/UVB Physical only sunscreen that protects against the rays that both burn your skin and age your skin. It's also your Full Coverage Color Correcting Cream and Anti-Aging Serum all in one!"
Those are some pretty intense claims there! I have been loving my L'Oreal BB Cream but I did not like that there is no SPF and the coverage is sheer to light. I have been hearing some amazing testimonials about this products's full coverage/anti-aging/super SPF qualities!
Philosophy Total Matteness Pore Minimizing & Mattifying Cleanser + Mask ($25)
Claim: "The innovative formula absorbs oil and minimizes shine for a totally matte, smooth-touch finish. Glacial clay helps unclog enlarged, dark pores to reduce their appearance. The formula deeply cleanses daily and multitasks as a weekly purifying mask for enhanced results. The result is purified, refined, totally matte skin."
I feel like 2014 is the year for oily girls! I am so happy to have come across a plethora of products devoted to those of us with large pores and shiny noses :)
I hope you all are having a great start to the new year! There are some amazing new products coming out this month and I am so pumped about several innovative products I have read about recently. January is also my birthday month so I will be doing a special haul this month and share with you all of my finds, so stay tuned!
Top 14
Benefit The POREfessional Agent Zero Shine-Vanishing Pro Powder ($30)
Claim: "Benefit's invisible-finish PRO powder helps shrink the look of pores and minimize shine."
I NEED this. NOW. This product has a built-in brush for spill-proof application.
Claim: "One second to smooth, poreless skin. Get mistake- proof, poreless smooth skin with Maybelline New York Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer."
Some are claiming it is a dupe for Benefit The POREfessional, others say it is a dupe for Smashbox Photo Finish Primer... either way, this product retails for 50% less than the other two brands!
Maybelline Master Hi-Light Powdered Blush/Bronzer ($9.99)
Claim: "Light diffusing Maybelline New York Face Studio Master Hi-Light Blush and Face Studio Master Hi-Light Bronzer formulas have an expert balance of color and shimmer illuminator for a natural glow."
I am intrigued by these! It's a multi-tonal illuminator/bronzer (or blush) combo.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade ($18)
Claim: "Waterproof brow color ideal for sculpting, defining, and carving perfectly precise brows that won't fade."
This oily girl is super pumped about the idea of a waterproof brow product. I love the idea of being able to skip using brow wax and still get the definition and staying power.
Claim: "Cover Girl's innovative clear formula gives your skin instant matte perfection. Use under, over, or instead of makeup."
There is alot of buzz that this product is a dupe for Mally Face Defender. The formula is very interesting, it not a cream nor a powder. A bronzing and luminizer shade is also available.
L'Oreal Visible Lift CC Eye Concealer ($9.99)
Claim: "The innovative cooling roller ball applicator instantly depuffs under eye bags. Color correcting pigments instantly cover dark circles and brighten the eye area. Caffeine formula corrects all signs of fatigue, including dark circles, bags, puffiness, and fine lines."
This is one of the products I am most excited about! In my skin care regimen, I have been trying to pay special attention to my under eye area, so I cannot wait to test this one out... and (depending on coverage) add this to my routine.
L'Oreal Colour Riche Extraordinary Lip Color ($9.99)
Claim: " Colour Riche Extraordinaire contains five precious micro-oils to create the perfect lip result in one luxuriously comfortable step: resurfaces and smooths lips like a balm, provides colour impact of a lipstick, and gives a varnished 3-d shine effect of a gloss."
Reading about this product, it sounds like it may be a possible dupe for Shiseido Rouge Lacquer, which would be great because I love that product!
Revlon PhotoReady Skinlights ($12.99)
Claim: "Get a healthy glow in any light. Banish dullness and even out skin with light-capturing crystals and photochromatic pigments."
I like that this product comes in several shades. The four shades include: pink light, peach light, bare light, and bronze light. This could be a great product for those who have had a hard time finding a flattering highlighter to compliment their skintone.
Jergens BB Body Perfecting Skin Cream ($11.99)
I am freaking out about this product! I feel like self-tanner looks way too fake this time of year, but I get super pasty and would love luminous glowy skin. This product comes in 2 shades: light and medium-dark.
NYX Blotting Powder (TBA)
No claims yet! This product is too new! I found out about this through the grapevine, and it is already being compared to MAC Blot Powder for half the price. Yesssss.
NYX Butter Lipsticks ($6.00)
Claim: "The unique texture seems to melt onto the lips, giving full, yet lightweight coverage with a luxurious satin finish."
I love NYX Butter Gloss so I am super stoked to try these lipsticks! A friend snatched some up in her local Ulta in North Carolina and I so jelly. They have yet to show up at my local store so I am considering ordering through the NYX site.
Claim: "Your Skin But Better CC Cream with SPF 50+ is truly a multi-tasking beauty miracle. It's your SPF 50+ UVA/UVB Physical only sunscreen that protects against the rays that both burn your skin and age your skin. It's also your Full Coverage Color Correcting Cream and Anti-Aging Serum all in one!"
Those are some pretty intense claims there! I have been loving my L'Oreal BB Cream but I did not like that there is no SPF and the coverage is sheer to light. I have been hearing some amazing testimonials about this products's full coverage/anti-aging/super SPF qualities!
Philosophy Total Matteness Pore Minimizing & Mattifying Cleanser + Mask ($25)
Claim: "The innovative formula absorbs oil and minimizes shine for a totally matte, smooth-touch finish. Glacial clay helps unclog enlarged, dark pores to reduce their appearance. The formula deeply cleanses daily and multitasks as a weekly purifying mask for enhanced results. The result is purified, refined, totally matte skin."
I feel like 2014 is the year for oily girls! I am so happy to have come across a plethora of products devoted to those of us with large pores and shiny noses :)
What new products are you most excited about in 2014? Let me know!
xoxo,
Alicia
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Favorites of 2013
Happy New Year's Eve!
I loved working for Lancome and still love several of their products (Hypnose Drama and Cils Booster are my Holy Grail mascara/primer combo!) however after leaving my counter in May to return to grad school, I discovered so many amazing new products both drugstore and luxury. It took several hours to determine which products made the cut. Sorry this is a long one! Settle in with a snack and check out my top picks of the year!
TOP PICKS OF 2013
Face
Foundation: Revlon ColorStay 24 Liquid Foundation & Whipped Foundation
Never, EVER, did I think I could find a drugstore foundation of such high quality. I use the whipped formula when my skin gets super oily (it worked great this summer and stood up to horrendous humidity!) and the liquid formula the rest of the time. Both formulas provide a flawless full coverage matte finish.
Concealer: Maybelline Dream Lumi Touch Highlighting Concealer & Bare Minerals in Well Rested
This Maybelline highlighting pen is fabulous! I use this product to draw/highlight the inverted triangle from the outside of each eye to the corners of the nose, when I contour my face. Highlighting the center of your face while contouring the cheekbones, forehead, and chin creates definition and a luminous glow. I had totally forgotten about the Well Rested powder from Bare Minerals until this fall. This powder is similar to Ben Nye's Banana powder but has a creamier consistency. The yellow undertone counteracts blue tones under the eyes and does just what the name says, makes you appear "well rested."
Powder: Ben Nye Luxury Powder in Cameo
I love to use this as a finishing powder. The pinky tones compliment my complexion well and eliminates shine.
Bronzer/Contour: Benefit Hoola
I first discovered this matte bronzer in January in a Benefit Bronzing kit. Hoola is the perfect shade of tan, no orange or red tones! I have used this on so many different skintones and it always warms up the face without looking fake.
Blush: Milani Baked Blush in Luminoso & Lorac Pro Powder Cheek Stain in Rosy Glow
I have mentioned before that I prefer Luminoso over Nars Orgasm for its softer peachy-pink tone and subtle luminosity instead of shimmer. I have not had the Lorac Pro Powder Cheek Stain long, but I am OBSESSED! Rosy Glow is a beautiful neutral rose shade that compliments cool and warm skintones. This formula is highly pigmented, with a silky finish that lasts all day long!
Highlighter: The Balm's Mary Lou-Manizer
This is another product that has shown up on my blog multiple times. I received this at the end of the summer from HauteLook and it totally lives up
to all the hype. It provides the perfect pearlescent sheen anywhere you put it. I love it on my inner corners, brow bone and just a smidge above my cheekbones. This is a universally flattering luminizer.
Eyes
Shadow Primer: Urban Decay Primer Potion in Sin & Too Faced Glitter Glue
The UD Primer Potion in Sin is pretty enough to wear alone. I wear this champagne cream primer by itself whenever I don't have time to do a full face. It also looks is a beautiful base for any powder shadow. Too Faced Glitter Glue is a new Holy Grail product for me. This is the only thing that keeps my super glittery UD shadows in place. I hate fall out... like it totally drives me nuts, so this product is a lifesaver!
Eyeshadow Palette: Naked & Make Up For Ever Aqua Shadow Waterproof Jumbo Eyeshadow Pencil in Pearly Taupe and Pearly Beige
I got the original Naked and Naked 2 in June and I immediately gravitated to the original palette. I felt like Naked 2 was filled with variations of the same shade... all with shimmer. I like the variety of neutral shades and the combination of matte and shimmer formulas. I found myself reaching for this palette throughout the year with a number of clients. The Make Up For Ever Aqua Shadow Pencils have been the MVP of my beauty collection this year. They go on smooth without creasing and provide a beautiful metallic wash of color. These are perfect for travel. You don't need a brush to apply and you can throw it in your bag and go!
Mascara: Maybelline Great Lash Lots of Lashes & Lorac Pro Mascara
I have never been a fan of mascaras with a rubber wand but this reboot of the iconic Great Lash mascara is a new favorite! Lorac Pro Mascara has a massive traditional wand that favors the style and shape of the Lots of Lashes wand. The formula and size of the wand reminds me alot of Dior's classic DiorShow mascara.
Liner: Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Liner in Carbon Black
The fine tapered felt pen liner is my ride or die favorite! It goes on super black and smooth. It sets quickly and stays on until I remove it before bed!
Lips
Lipliner: NYX Slim Lip Pencil in Nude Pink
Universally flattering! Another item I find myself constantly reaching for when dolling up clients. I prefer pinky nudes over traditional brown tones and this liner is a beautiful pinky beige color.
Lipstick: Maybelline Color Sensational Vivids in Fire Red
Whoo-wee this color is gorge! It is a true red that goes on beautifully with a creamy opaque finish. I have been so impressed with lipstick, I need to try more from this line!
Lipstain: Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Stain Balm in Smitten, Crush, and Sweetheart & L'Oreal Colour Riche Aqua Lacquer Lip Stain in Rose On and On and Pink Persistence
If you read my blog, you know I love me some Kissable Balm Stain! They are a great dupe for Clinique's Chubby Sticks... but better! More pigmentation, longer lasting, and comfortable on the lips! I have several shades but the three above are my faves. L'Oreal Aqua Lacquer Lip Stain is an amazing dupe for YSL Glossy Stain. They feel good on the lips, sets quickly, and stays glossy for hours!
Lipgloss: Buxom Lip Polish in Sandy & NYX Butter Gloss in Strawberry Parfait and Maple Blondie
Buxom Lip Polish is a creamy gloss that I love layering over brighter lipsticks to tone them down a bit. Sandy is a perfect pale pinky nude... I told you I loved it! The NYX Butter Glosses are the best feeling glosses I have ever tried. They glide on and bring a transparent and highly pigmented sheen to the lips. Strawberry Parfait is a perfect bright Barbie pink and Maple Blondie is a warm pinky peach that looks great with bold eyes.
Hair, Skin, Nails & Accessories
Tools: Crown Infinity Brushes
LOVE LOVE LOVE these brushes. The flat top kabuki creates a flawless finish in seconds. The precision tapered brush is the best brush I have ever found for concealing. The wooden handles could be a tad nicer but the price tag for these brushes is unbelievable.
Nail Product: Red Carpet Manicure in Paparazzi
I love this gel nail kit. For the price of two manicures, you get the entire kit! Paparazzi is the most fabulous vibrant pinky purple (aka Pantone's color of the year, "vivid orchid").
Hair Product: L'Oreal Repair 5 Damage-Erasing Balm & L'Oreal EverStyle Energizing Dry Shampoo
The Repair Balm is the best mask I have ever found. I leave it in my hair while I shave my legs and then rinse it out. It makes my hair so soft and silky and my split-ends are smoothed. The Energizing Dry Shampoo works wonders on day 2 hair, getting rid of greasiness and amping up hair's volume.
Not Worth the Hype:
Benefit They're Real Mascara: Don't get your panties in a bunch! I know that this is some folks' Holy Grail mascara, however, I was not impressed. The nubby tiny bristles on the rubber wand and formula are meant to increase definition, but the wand did nothing but make my lashes look like clumpy spikes... Not exactly the look I was going for.
NYX The Curve Liner: I loved the idea of this product but I did not feel like it was helpful in creating a cat-eye and the formula dries quickly, fades, and flakes off midday. The felt tip dried up in less than 3 weeks. This product is $15, shell out $5 more and you can have Stila's Stay All Day, which is the best liquid liner I have ever found.
Lorac POREfection Mattifying Primer: Feels smooth on the skin but there is NO mattifying properties to this primer. I believe it would work for those with normal to dry skin, but for those girls with oily skin you will be shiny within an hour. I almost feel that this product increased the shine on my t-zone.
Beauty Blender: Don't get me wrong, I like my Beauty Blender just fine I just don't want to spend 4 times as much when I don't have to. It works wonders on seamlessly blending out concealer and applying liquid highlighter. When a friend found an almost identical dupe for $5, I traded my Beauty Blender for EarthTherapeutics Blending Sponge.
Wanting to branch out in the new year?
Purchasing a couple of different Sephora SuperStar gift sets is also a way to try out different high end products, most of them being full-size! Somehow I completely forgot that the drugstore brands have some pretty fabulous and innovative cosmetics. If you are a beauty junkie like me, who may also be on a budget, I love stocking up at CVS and Ulta during BOGO 50% off sales.
Happy New Year dolls! See you in 2014!
xoxo,
Alicia
I loved working for Lancome and still love several of their products (Hypnose Drama and Cils Booster are my Holy Grail mascara/primer combo!) however after leaving my counter in May to return to grad school, I discovered so many amazing new products both drugstore and luxury. It took several hours to determine which products made the cut. Sorry this is a long one! Settle in with a snack and check out my top picks of the year!
TOP PICKS OF 2013
Face
Foundation: Revlon ColorStay 24 Liquid Foundation & Whipped Foundation
Never, EVER, did I think I could find a drugstore foundation of such high quality. I use the whipped formula when my skin gets super oily (it worked great this summer and stood up to horrendous humidity!) and the liquid formula the rest of the time. Both formulas provide a flawless full coverage matte finish.
Concealer: Maybelline Dream Lumi Touch Highlighting Concealer & Bare Minerals in Well Rested
This Maybelline highlighting pen is fabulous! I use this product to draw/highlight the inverted triangle from the outside of each eye to the corners of the nose, when I contour my face. Highlighting the center of your face while contouring the cheekbones, forehead, and chin creates definition and a luminous glow. I had totally forgotten about the Well Rested powder from Bare Minerals until this fall. This powder is similar to Ben Nye's Banana powder but has a creamier consistency. The yellow undertone counteracts blue tones under the eyes and does just what the name says, makes you appear "well rested."Powder: Ben Nye Luxury Powder in Cameo
I love to use this as a finishing powder. The pinky tones compliment my complexion well and eliminates shine.
Bronzer/Contour: Benefit Hoola
I first discovered this matte bronzer in January in a Benefit Bronzing kit. Hoola is the perfect shade of tan, no orange or red tones! I have used this on so many different skintones and it always warms up the face without looking fake.
Blush: Milani Baked Blush in Luminoso & Lorac Pro Powder Cheek Stain in Rosy Glow
I have mentioned before that I prefer Luminoso over Nars Orgasm for its softer peachy-pink tone and subtle luminosity instead of shimmer. I have not had the Lorac Pro Powder Cheek Stain long, but I am OBSESSED! Rosy Glow is a beautiful neutral rose shade that compliments cool and warm skintones. This formula is highly pigmented, with a silky finish that lasts all day long!Highlighter: The Balm's Mary Lou-Manizer
This is another product that has shown up on my blog multiple times. I received this at the end of the summer from HauteLook and it totally lives up
to all the hype. It provides the perfect pearlescent sheen anywhere you put it. I love it on my inner corners, brow bone and just a smidge above my cheekbones. This is a universally flattering luminizer.
Eyes
Shadow Primer: Urban Decay Primer Potion in Sin & Too Faced Glitter Glue
The UD Primer Potion in Sin is pretty enough to wear alone. I wear this champagne cream primer by itself whenever I don't have time to do a full face. It also looks is a beautiful base for any powder shadow. Too Faced Glitter Glue is a new Holy Grail product for me. This is the only thing that keeps my super glittery UD shadows in place. I hate fall out... like it totally drives me nuts, so this product is a lifesaver!Eyeshadow Palette: Naked & Make Up For Ever Aqua Shadow Waterproof Jumbo Eyeshadow Pencil in Pearly Taupe and Pearly Beige
I got the original Naked and Naked 2 in June and I immediately gravitated to the original palette. I felt like Naked 2 was filled with variations of the same shade... all with shimmer. I like the variety of neutral shades and the combination of matte and shimmer formulas. I found myself reaching for this palette throughout the year with a number of clients. The Make Up For Ever Aqua Shadow Pencils have been the MVP of my beauty collection this year. They go on smooth without creasing and provide a beautiful metallic wash of color. These are perfect for travel. You don't need a brush to apply and you can throw it in your bag and go!
Mascara: Maybelline Great Lash Lots of Lashes & Lorac Pro Mascara
I have never been a fan of mascaras with a rubber wand but this reboot of the iconic Great Lash mascara is a new favorite! Lorac Pro Mascara has a massive traditional wand that favors the style and shape of the Lots of Lashes wand. The formula and size of the wand reminds me alot of Dior's classic DiorShow mascara.
Liner: Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Liner in Carbon BlackThe fine tapered felt pen liner is my ride or die favorite! It goes on super black and smooth. It sets quickly and stays on until I remove it before bed!
Lips
Lipliner: NYX Slim Lip Pencil in Nude Pink
Universally flattering! Another item I find myself constantly reaching for when dolling up clients. I prefer pinky nudes over traditional brown tones and this liner is a beautiful pinky beige color.
Lipstick: Maybelline Color Sensational Vivids in Fire Red
Whoo-wee this color is gorge! It is a true red that goes on beautifully with a creamy opaque finish. I have been so impressed with lipstick, I need to try more from this line!Lipstain: Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Stain Balm in Smitten, Crush, and Sweetheart & L'Oreal Colour Riche Aqua Lacquer Lip Stain in Rose On and On and Pink Persistence
If you read my blog, you know I love me some Kissable Balm Stain! They are a great dupe for Clinique's Chubby Sticks... but better! More pigmentation, longer lasting, and comfortable on the lips! I have several shades but the three above are my faves. L'Oreal Aqua Lacquer Lip Stain is an amazing dupe for YSL Glossy Stain. They feel good on the lips, sets quickly, and stays glossy for hours!
Lipgloss: Buxom Lip Polish in Sandy & NYX Butter Gloss in Strawberry Parfait and Maple BlondieBuxom Lip Polish is a creamy gloss that I love layering over brighter lipsticks to tone them down a bit. Sandy is a perfect pale pinky nude... I told you I loved it! The NYX Butter Glosses are the best feeling glosses I have ever tried. They glide on and bring a transparent and highly pigmented sheen to the lips. Strawberry Parfait is a perfect bright Barbie pink and Maple Blondie is a warm pinky peach that looks great with bold eyes.
Hair, Skin, Nails & Accessories
Tools: Crown Infinity Brushes
LOVE LOVE LOVE these brushes. The flat top kabuki creates a flawless finish in seconds. The precision tapered brush is the best brush I have ever found for concealing. The wooden handles could be a tad nicer but the price tag for these brushes is unbelievable.Nail Product: Red Carpet Manicure in Paparazzi
I love this gel nail kit. For the price of two manicures, you get the entire kit! Paparazzi is the most fabulous vibrant pinky purple (aka Pantone's color of the year, "vivid orchid").
Hair Product: L'Oreal Repair 5 Damage-Erasing Balm & L'Oreal EverStyle Energizing Dry Shampoo
The Repair Balm is the best mask I have ever found. I leave it in my hair while I shave my legs and then rinse it out. It makes my hair so soft and silky and my split-ends are smoothed. The Energizing Dry Shampoo works wonders on day 2 hair, getting rid of greasiness and amping up hair's volume.Not Worth the Hype:
Benefit They're Real Mascara: Don't get your panties in a bunch! I know that this is some folks' Holy Grail mascara, however, I was not impressed. The nubby tiny bristles on the rubber wand and formula are meant to increase definition, but the wand did nothing but make my lashes look like clumpy spikes... Not exactly the look I was going for.
NYX The Curve Liner: I loved the idea of this product but I did not feel like it was helpful in creating a cat-eye and the formula dries quickly, fades, and flakes off midday. The felt tip dried up in less than 3 weeks. This product is $15, shell out $5 more and you can have Stila's Stay All Day, which is the best liquid liner I have ever found.
Lorac POREfection Mattifying Primer: Feels smooth on the skin but there is NO mattifying properties to this primer. I believe it would work for those with normal to dry skin, but for those girls with oily skin you will be shiny within an hour. I almost feel that this product increased the shine on my t-zone.Beauty Blender: Don't get me wrong, I like my Beauty Blender just fine I just don't want to spend 4 times as much when I don't have to. It works wonders on seamlessly blending out concealer and applying liquid highlighter. When a friend found an almost identical dupe for $5, I traded my Beauty Blender for EarthTherapeutics Blending Sponge.
Wanting to branch out in the new year?
Purchasing a couple of different Sephora SuperStar gift sets is also a way to try out different high end products, most of them being full-size! Somehow I completely forgot that the drugstore brands have some pretty fabulous and innovative cosmetics. If you are a beauty junkie like me, who may also be on a budget, I love stocking up at CVS and Ulta during BOGO 50% off sales.
Happy New Year dolls! See you in 2014!
xoxo,
Alicia
Monday, December 30, 2013
New Year's Eve Makeup
It's the eve of New Year's Eve... time to break out the glitter! I chose a creamy pearlescent pewter shade with green shimmer for the center of the lid and a smoky grey for the crease. The green shimmer keeps the look from getting too "racoony." You definitely need to prime your lids with a tacky base to hold this packed pigment in place. I like to pat this type of product on instead of sweeping on with a brush. I smoked out the outer "v" with a matte black shade with a small liner brush, and then buffed it out with a dense blending brush to soften the look. I went with a pearly luminizer in the inner corners to brighten the eye area. With so much happening on the eyes, I chose to go with glowy highlighted skin with a subtle contour and defined brows. A pale pinky-nude lip balances the dramatic look. Most of the items I used for this look are higher-end, but I will include dupes for most products along with links.
Lancome Infinite 24HR #503 Electrifying Sparkle
(Ardell Demi 120, can be found HERE)
Eye Products
Too Faced Glitter Glue
(Hard Candy Sheer Envy Primer, can be found HERE)
Lancome Infinite 24HR #503 Electrifying Sparkle
(L'Oreal Infallible 24HR EyeShadow Golden Sage is a great dupe... the formula of these pressed pigments are almost identical! Can be found HERE)
Sephora MicroSmooth Baked Eyeshadow Trio in Smoky Matte
(L'Oreal Colour Riche Shadow Quad in Black Pump, can be found HERE)
Stila Stay All Day Liquid Liner in Carbon Black
(Milani Eye Tech Extreme Liquid Eyeliner in Blackout, can be found HERE)
Lancome Le Crayon Khol in Black Ebony
(Revlon Luxurious Color Eye Liner in Black Velvet, can be found HERE)
Lorac Pro Mascara
(Maybelline Great Lash Lots of Lashes, can be found HERE)
Lilly Lashes in Milan
(Ardell Demi 120, can be found HERE)
The Balm Mary Lou-minizer
(Physicians Formula Mineral Glow Pearls Powder in Translucent, can be found HERE)
Lip Products
NYX Lipliner in Nude Pink
Rimmel London Lipstick in Dreamy
Buxom Lip Polish in Sandy
(Maybelline Color Elixer Lip Color in Petal Plush, can be found HERE)
Wishing you all a safe and happy new year's celebration!
xoxo,
Alicia
Santa Baby... Was good to me!
Hi there dolls! I hope you all had a happy Hanukkah/Christmas/Kwanzaa! I hope that your holidays were spent surrounded with family and friends, and you got just what you wanted. Santa was very good to me this year and brought me some fabulous beauty treats. I asked for a few of my faves but also got some great new products that I have been wanting to try out. I got a lot of goodies from NYX and Stila that I love (my beloved Eyebrow Push-Up Bra and Stay All Day Liquid Liner among them) but I wanted to share with you some of my favorite newbies and some great kits!
Crown Infinity Brush Set
I had been eyeing this set on HauteLook months ago, but missed the opportunity to get them before they sold out. I picked the set of 8 synthetic duo-fiber kabuki on sale on Black Friday for $45 (this was a gift from my mom... I picked it out, she paid!). These brushes are ridiculously amazing. They are quite similar to Sigma's Sigmax Set (see side-by-side pics, my brushes are on top and to the left) and MAC's Duo Fibre brushes. The Sigmax set is priced at $146! I have been extremely impressed with the quality of these brushes. I did some research on these and found out that they come highly recommended by 3 time Oscar winning makeup artist Ve Neill (she has worked on the Pirates of the Caribbean movies, Spiderman, and The Hunger Games... just to name a few!). They pick up product amazingly without absorbing and wasting it. The 8 brush set includes 4 large kabuki brushes (tapered, flat top, round top, and angled) and 4 small versions of the same for precision application.The large flat top kabuki applies liquid and cream foundation flawlessly! I use airbrush makeup and this is the closest I have ever encountered to an airbrush finish. I love the small angled kabuki for precise contouring (cheekbones and
nose) and then I blend out with the large angled kabuki. The large angled kabuki is especially amazing when contouring large areas of the face like the jawline and forehead. These quality brushes make my contouring/highlighting routine so much easier and blend out effortlessly! The small tapered kabuki is perfect for under-eye concealing. I like the large tapered kabuki for highlighting. I find the round top kabuki brushes (both large and small) to be best at buffing out powder products. I could not find the Infinity brushes sold as a set on the Crown website, so apparently they are a HauteLook exclusive. Keep checking the HauteLook website, they usually feature Crown every couple of months so you should be able to score them on sale again soon!
Lorac Close Up Red Carpet Pro Face Tutorial
My love muffin got this for me after a few not-so-subtle hints, and this kit is an amazing value! I had been wanting to try the Lorac Pro Powder Cheek Stain for a hot minute. The blush is usually $20 but this kit is $42 and you get 3 full-size products and 2 deluxe-size products. The kit includes: Pro Powder Cheek Stain in Rosy Glow, Pro Mascara, Lip Lustre Lip Gloss in Peach Lustre, Mini Pro Palette (3 shades), and POREfection Mattifying Face Primer (0.85 oz.). I absolutely LOVE this cheek stain, it is a super pigmented and super long-lasting formula that goes on smooth and silky... but be forewarned that the formula sets quickly so blend out fast! The Mini Pro Palette contains 3 shades (shimmer beige, matte light brown, matte espresso). I prefer to use a wet brush (I spray my brush with water or UD De-Slick) to apply these shadows. They are very pigmented and the Lt. Brown and Espresso are much darker than they appear in the pan. The mascara is very similar to Make Up For Ever's Smoky Extravagant mascara with its extra large tapered cone-shaped wand. I did not have high expectations for this product since I basically purchased this kit just for the blush, but was quite surprised by the crazy volume and separation this mascara creates. The primer is almost one ounce, just 0.15 oz. shy of the full-size version. I am not completely convinced that this primer is mattifying. I am an oily gal and noticed a good bit of shine on my nose and forehead a few hours after applying my makeup. I don't love the Lip Lustre Lip Gloss, the color is beautiful but there is too much shimmer for my taste and it is a bit thick and sticky. Overall, if you can still get your hands on this kit (Ulta.com is sold out!) grab it! It's an awesome deal on high quality products!
Lancome Hypnose Drama Set
I was so happy to get this from my little sister! If you have ready any of my previous posts you know that Hypnose Drama is my all-time favorite mascara, and this kit also contains two other amazing products from Lancome: ArtLiner Liquid Liner in Noir and Bi-Facil Eye Makeup Remover (the best makeup remover EVER!). Hypnose Drama is $27 at the Lancome counter but this kit includes the mascara, full-size liner, and a deluxe-size makeup remover all for $33! This kit is till available on sephora.com, so jump on it!
Did you get any special beauty gifts over the holidays?! I would love to hear what you got, so feel free to share in the comments below!
Keep up with new blog posts by liking me on Facebook or following me on Instagram!
I will have a NYE tutorial posted tomorrow evening and then my 2013 Favorites will be posted on Tuesday!
xoxo,
Alicia
Crown Infinity Brush Set
I had been eyeing this set on HauteLook months ago, but missed the opportunity to get them before they sold out. I picked the set of 8 synthetic duo-fiber kabuki on sale on Black Friday for $45 (this was a gift from my mom... I picked it out, she paid!). These brushes are ridiculously amazing. They are quite similar to Sigma's Sigmax Set (see side-by-side pics, my brushes are on top and to the left) and MAC's Duo Fibre brushes. The Sigmax set is priced at $146! I have been extremely impressed with the quality of these brushes. I did some research on these and found out that they come highly recommended by 3 time Oscar winning makeup artist Ve Neill (she has worked on the Pirates of the Caribbean movies, Spiderman, and The Hunger Games... just to name a few!). They pick up product amazingly without absorbing and wasting it. The 8 brush set includes 4 large kabuki brushes (tapered, flat top, round top, and angled) and 4 small versions of the same for precision application.The large flat top kabuki applies liquid and cream foundation flawlessly! I use airbrush makeup and this is the closest I have ever encountered to an airbrush finish. I love the small angled kabuki for precise contouring (cheekbones and
Lorac Close Up Red Carpet Pro Face Tutorial
My love muffin got this for me after a few not-so-subtle hints, and this kit is an amazing value! I had been wanting to try the Lorac Pro Powder Cheek Stain for a hot minute. The blush is usually $20 but this kit is $42 and you get 3 full-size products and 2 deluxe-size products. The kit includes: Pro Powder Cheek Stain in Rosy Glow, Pro Mascara, Lip Lustre Lip Gloss in Peach Lustre, Mini Pro Palette (3 shades), and POREfection Mattifying Face Primer (0.85 oz.). I absolutely LOVE this cheek stain, it is a super pigmented and super long-lasting formula that goes on smooth and silky... but be forewarned that the formula sets quickly so blend out fast! The Mini Pro Palette contains 3 shades (shimmer beige, matte light brown, matte espresso). I prefer to use a wet brush (I spray my brush with water or UD De-Slick) to apply these shadows. They are very pigmented and the Lt. Brown and Espresso are much darker than they appear in the pan. The mascara is very similar to Make Up For Ever's Smoky Extravagant mascara with its extra large tapered cone-shaped wand. I did not have high expectations for this product since I basically purchased this kit just for the blush, but was quite surprised by the crazy volume and separation this mascara creates. The primer is almost one ounce, just 0.15 oz. shy of the full-size version. I am not completely convinced that this primer is mattifying. I am an oily gal and noticed a good bit of shine on my nose and forehead a few hours after applying my makeup. I don't love the Lip Lustre Lip Gloss, the color is beautiful but there is too much shimmer for my taste and it is a bit thick and sticky. Overall, if you can still get your hands on this kit (Ulta.com is sold out!) grab it! It's an awesome deal on high quality products!I was so happy to get this from my little sister! If you have ready any of my previous posts you know that Hypnose Drama is my all-time favorite mascara, and this kit also contains two other amazing products from Lancome: ArtLiner Liquid Liner in Noir and Bi-Facil Eye Makeup Remover (the best makeup remover EVER!). Hypnose Drama is $27 at the Lancome counter but this kit includes the mascara, full-size liner, and a deluxe-size makeup remover all for $33! This kit is till available on sephora.com, so jump on it!
Did you get any special beauty gifts over the holidays?! I would love to hear what you got, so feel free to share in the comments below!
Keep up with new blog posts by liking me on Facebook or following me on Instagram!
I will have a NYE tutorial posted tomorrow evening and then my 2013 Favorites will be posted on Tuesday!
xoxo,
Alicia
Monday, December 23, 2013
Festive Holiday Makeup
I recently went to a "tacky Christmas party," where bows, sequins, and glitter are basically required... which is right up my alley. I love to have a reason to go all-out (themed parties are literally my jam). For this particular party, I decided that a green smokey eye and a berry lip were absolutely necessary.
A few tips for sporting bold eyes AND lips:
Products:
Eyes:
Too Faced Glitter Glue
Tarte green eyeshadow quad -2012 holiday palette (Maybelline sells a similar quad called Gutsy Green)
Lancome Gel Liner in Black Fishnets
Ardell Glamour Lashes #105
NYX Eyebrow Pushup Bra
Face:
Revlon Colorstay 24- Nude
Lancome Effacernes Concealer- Clair
Maybelline Dream Lumi Concealer- Light (for highlight)
Benefit Hoola
Lancome Blush Subtil- Aplum
Ben Nye Luxury Powder- Cameo
Lips:
Lancome Le Lipstyque- Deep Berry (try NYX liner in Ruby)
Maybelline Vivid Lipstick- On Fire Red
Lancome La Lacque Fever- Dynamic (L'Oreal Aqua Lacquer in Endless Red is a great alternative)
1.) Prep lids with Glitter Glue.
2.) Apply the bright green shade (top right) all over the lid.
3.) Apply the dark green (bottom right) to the crease, sweeping into the outer "V" of the eye. Use the army green shade (bottom left) as a transition color.
4.) Gently PAT on the glittery light green shade (top left) onto the center of the lid. (I strongly recommend spraying a dense shader brush with a setting spray like UD All Nighter or MAC Fix Plus before loading brush with shadow. Tap off the excess. If you try to brush this shade on you will have tons of fallout).
5.) Curl lashes and apply one coat of your fave mascara (I like Maybelline Great Lash "Lots of Lashes" w/the pink wand).
6.) Apply your fave strip lashes (I suggest Ardell 105 or 101, they are super black but more natural-looking than others in the Glamour line).
7.) Using gel liner (or liquid if you prefer), go over your top lash line. This will cover any tell-tale signs that you're wearing falsies while also adding some definition to all that color you got happening on the lid.
8.) Apply face primer and foundation. Lightly contour the face and apply a berry blush to the apples of the cheeks. Set with a translucent powder.
9.) Line and fill lips with a berry liner. Carefully apply lipstick (remember that neat lines keep this look polished) and top with a deeper shade of lipgloss with a subtle shimmer on the bottom lip (lips will appear fuller).
10.) Fill in brows and set with wax to hold shape. Apply a matte cream highlight to the browbones.
*Just thought I'd add a pic of our tacky get-ups! That mountain man is my love, Michael ;)
Merry Christmas Dolls!!
xoxo,
Alicia
A few tips for sporting bold eyes AND lips:
- Tend to your brows. Polished brows really frame the face and pull together loud eye looks.
- Defining your lash lines and using lipliner works the way defining the brows does, by adding "boundaries" around bold colors you are creating a much more cohesive look.
- Use primers! You need a good eye primer to achieve a "fun and festive" not "disco glitter queen" look. I like sticky bases when using any product with a good amount of shimmer. When the primer is tackier, there will be less fallout. Also applying a primer to the face, smooths out the complexion and preps the face for foundation.
- Use a lighter hand with bronzer and blush. When doing such a bold look, you need a smooth and even canvas so that the final result is striking and not at all clownish.
Products:
Eyes:
Too Faced Glitter Glue
Tarte green eyeshadow quad -2012 holiday palette (Maybelline sells a similar quad called Gutsy Green)
Lancome Gel Liner in Black Fishnets
Ardell Glamour Lashes #105
NYX Eyebrow Pushup Bra
Face:
Revlon Colorstay 24- Nude
Lancome Effacernes Concealer- Clair
Maybelline Dream Lumi Concealer- Light (for highlight)
Benefit Hoola
Lancome Blush Subtil- Aplum
Ben Nye Luxury Powder- Cameo
Lips:
Lancome Le Lipstyque- Deep Berry (try NYX liner in Ruby)
Maybelline Vivid Lipstick- On Fire Red
Lancome La Lacque Fever- Dynamic (L'Oreal Aqua Lacquer in Endless Red is a great alternative)
1.) Prep lids with Glitter Glue.
2.) Apply the bright green shade (top right) all over the lid.
3.) Apply the dark green (bottom right) to the crease, sweeping into the outer "V" of the eye. Use the army green shade (bottom left) as a transition color.
4.) Gently PAT on the glittery light green shade (top left) onto the center of the lid. (I strongly recommend spraying a dense shader brush with a setting spray like UD All Nighter or MAC Fix Plus before loading brush with shadow. Tap off the excess. If you try to brush this shade on you will have tons of fallout).
5.) Curl lashes and apply one coat of your fave mascara (I like Maybelline Great Lash "Lots of Lashes" w/the pink wand).6.) Apply your fave strip lashes (I suggest Ardell 105 or 101, they are super black but more natural-looking than others in the Glamour line).
7.) Using gel liner (or liquid if you prefer), go over your top lash line. This will cover any tell-tale signs that you're wearing falsies while also adding some definition to all that color you got happening on the lid.
8.) Apply face primer and foundation. Lightly contour the face and apply a berry blush to the apples of the cheeks. Set with a translucent powder.
9.) Line and fill lips with a berry liner. Carefully apply lipstick (remember that neat lines keep this look polished) and top with a deeper shade of lipgloss with a subtle shimmer on the bottom lip (lips will appear fuller).
10.) Fill in brows and set with wax to hold shape. Apply a matte cream highlight to the browbones.
*Just thought I'd add a pic of our tacky get-ups! That mountain man is my love, Michael ;)
Merry Christmas Dolls!!
xoxo,
Alicia
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