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Simple Makeup Routine!

January 29, 2015

How are you enjoying this Thursday readers?

I wanted to share a quick post about my simple makeup routine. As much as I love applying makeup, sometimes I get a bit lazy or don’t have enough time in the morning. So for those days when I prefer to get a little extra sleep, here’s my fast and simple way to look put-together.

*Note: This doesn’t include my skincare routine which will be in a different post.

Products I Use

Foundation: One of my favorite foundations is Smashbox Liquid Halo HD Foundation SPF 15. It feels light, provides full coverage without looking cakey and is a perfect match for my skin.

Concealer: I use Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer in Vanilla to cover up any under-eye discolorations and it provides a little bit of a brightening effect since it’s a light color; it’s also great at concealing redness. It’s not as hydrating as it claims but that’s nothing an eye cream can’t fix.

Blush: If you follow my Instagram, you’ll see I purchased the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Dim Infusion and I can’t say enough about it. It’s a subdued coral color that applies and blends effortlessly, provides a nice glow and looks natural.

Mascara: I purchased Blinc Mascara awhile ago and I like it to achieve a natural look. This mascara forms little tubes around lashes that lengthen and unlike other mascaras, I don’t have little black flakes underneath my eye at the end of the day. One thing this doesn’t do though is provide volume.

Lips: I recently found this lipstick-it was forgotten for a bit in one of my purses-and it’s so natural looking on me. The best part is how moisturizing the formula is which is nice in this cooler weather. Tarte Amazonian Butter Lipstick in Angelic Nude.

Here’s my finished look. 🙂

What are your simple makeup must-haves? Share below!

Stephanie

Sephora Moonshdow Baked Palette Review!

January 20, 2015

Hi readers! Hope you all had a great weekend. I have a full day at IDI today, taking a class on acids, peels, and exfoliation (super excited!) but I wanted to leave you with a review on the Sephora Moonshadows. I bought this palette about two months ago and what drew me in initially were the colors and the price, about $12 after a few discounts.

Once you open the palette, there’s a mirror on top and 10 gorgeous colors below. All colors have shimmer so if you’re looking for matte colors, this palette might not be for you. The colors as pictured above from left to right:

Peru: Olive green with gold shimmer

Belize: Red/orange bronze

Barbados: Peach

Seychelles: Peach with a gold undertone

St. Vincent: Frosty white

Grenada: Purple with tiny flecks of silver

Bermuda: Lilac

Fiji: Lilac with a lot of silver strewn in

Martinique: Liquified gold

St. Lucia: Shimmery cream

The majority of the colors are nicely pigmented and blend easily, however, if you want the colors to really pop, using the shadows wet is key. Below are swatches of all the colors, both wet and dry.

Peru, Belize, Barbados, Seychelles, St. Vincent (dry)

Sephora Moonshadow Baked Palette- In the Tropics

Peru, Belize, Barbados, Seychelles, St. Vincent (wet)

Grenada, Bermuda, Fiji, Martinique, St. Lucia (dry)

Grenada, Bermuda, Fiji, Martinique, St. Lucia (wet)

As you can see in some colors, wetting the shadows really brings out the nuances.

Pros

Majority are nicely pigmented

Can be used wet or dry

Blend easily

Can be used to create subtle or dramatic looks

Cons

There’s quite a bit of fallout when you apply the shadow and it also gets all over the palette

No matte colors that can be used as blending/transition shades

A few shades take a few swipes to develop a good color pay off

This palette is Limited Edition

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for pretty, shimmery but not overly glitter eyeshadows, you can’t go wrong with this one. Although this particular palette was limited edition, Sephora has some other great baked shadow palettes and I hope this gave you some insight into what to expect from these 🙂

Thanks for reading and if you have any questions let me know. 🙂

Stephanie

Tom Ford Lips And Boys Omar Review!

December 29, 2014

Hi readers! I know my posting schedule has been a bit off due to the holidays but should be back to normal starting next week-at least that is the plan. 🙂

Back in November, for Black Friday I went ahead and purchased my very first Tom Ford lipstick. I’ve read so many great things about them but always winced at the steep $50 price tag. That is, of course, until Tom Ford decided to release a pretty extensive limited edition collection of lipsticks (50 to be exact) entitled Lips and Boys. Granted these lippies are smaller than the normal ones (0.07 oz vs 0.10 oz) , but $32 seemed a bit more manageable than $50.

Tom Ford lipsticks come in a dark brown/black (depending on how the light reflects off of it) case accented with gold trim and the signature TF logo etched into them. The TF logo dissipates after a few swipes though.

The Lips and Boys collection is grouped into color categories: nudes to browns; silvers to blacks; metallics; light pinks to mauves; pop pinks to roses; fuchsia to magentas; corals to oranges; reds; violets to orchards; and plums. I settled on the shade (boy?) Omar which pertains to the metallics family as it looked perfect for the holiday season with flecks of gold.

The color was a bit hard to capture in pictures but this is pretty close. To me this shade is kind of copper with red and orange undertones and flecks of gold that give it a metallic finish. It has a slight vanilla scent, reminiscent of M.A.C. lipsticks. While the formula is hydrating and applies pretty smoothly, I didn’t find it to be groundbreaking but perhaps it could be because the finish is metallic? Whatever the case, I absolutely love the color! It stayed on for about 3 hours and didn’t leave a stain behind, only gold shimmer. Below is a picture of how the color looks applied.

Overall: I love the color as it’s unique and unlike any color I own. However, it wasn’t as long lasting as some of the Tom Ford lipsticks are made out to be. Again, perhaps it might be because the finish is metallic. I would recommend these as a way to try out the Tom Ford line though at a more wallet friendlier option.

They are available now online and through the following retailers: Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Saks.

*Note: These are limited edition so don’t wait too long if you want to try them out. 🙂

Have you tried any Tom Ford lipsticks? What is your opinion on them?

Have a great Monday,

Stephanie

Makeup Tip: How to Get a New Lip Shade Without Spending!

December 17, 2014

Left to right: Too Faced La Crème Color Drenched Lip Cream in Naked Dolly; Laura Mercier Crème Smooth Lip Colour in Red Amour; Make Up For Ever Aqua Waterproof Lip Liner Pencil 3C

A quick way to save money yet get a new lip shade is to channel your inner cosmetic chemist and mix different colors of lip products you already own!

Create a deeper lip color by combing a bright red and nude lip liner.

Bottom to top: Make Up For Ever + Laura Mercier = darker red

Or, create a pink shade by mixing a nude color with a bright red.

Bottom to top: Too Faced + Laura Mercier = pretty pink

It might take a few tries for you to get an ideal shade but that’s the fun part!

Have a great Wednesday,

Stephanie

My Tips and Tricks for a Special Occasion Look!

November 20, 2014

Every so often, I am asked how I prepare my skin for special occasions so with the holiday season here, I decided to share my tips and tricks to achieving a great and lasting look.

Let’s get started!

Skincare Essential Tips

1) Exfoliate! One of the steps to achieve a smooth complexion is to exfoliate and a go-to favorite is Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment. In the shower after cleansing, I apply it to my face, wait 2 minutes while the enzymes and lactic acid remove dead skin cells and rinse away to reveal a rosy glow. (For a full review, click here.)

Lips can also use some exfoliating to remove flakiness and allow your lip color a smooth application. I like Fresh Sugar Lip Polish.

2) Moisturize! After exfoliating, it’s crucial to add in moisture to your skin. This step can also help prevent a cakey look. Choose a moisturizer that’s appropriate for your skin type. I use Dermalogica Active Moist when my combination skin feels more on the oily side as it’s light-weight and works well under makeup.

3) Use an Eye Cream! Adding hydration underneath your eyes will give a youthful look and can lessen the appearance of fine lines. A good eye cream I like is PCA Skin EyeXcellence.

Pre and Post Makeup Essentials

1) Face Primer! A face primer creates a barrier between your skin and makeup. It helps make your makeup last longer and depending on the formula you choose, it can minimize the look of pores and ‘fill in’ lines and wrinkles (silicone based). 100% Pure Luminous Primer Vitamins + Antioxidants with Resveratrol has a nice blend of green tea and vitamins C and E for added antioxidant support.

2) Eye Primer! Eye primer is a must to even out any discoloration you may have on your eyelids and keep eyeshadow from creasing/fading. My absolute favorite that I have used for years is Too Faced Shadow Insurance.

3) Lip Balm! Just as it’s key to moisturize your face, your lips also benefit from it too. Swipe on a little bit while you’re getting ready so it has a chance to set. Helpful tip: Mix it with your favorite lipstick to get a sheer look. I love Vintage Sister Lip Balms (featured here: Chai Tea).

4) Finish the look! (optional) To really help set everything, use a finishing/setting spray or a light dusting of powder. I alternate between Make Up For Ever HD Microfinish Powder and Urban Decay All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray.

And there you have it. Whatever makeup colors/brands I choose depends on what I want to achieve, but these steps ensure a polished look.

What are your favorite products or tips for special occasions? Comment below!

Thanks for reading,

Stephanie

Reader Question: The Truth About Those Chemicals in Your Makeup

November 13, 2014

One of my good friends asked me if she should toss out all of her makeup items in lieu for a more natural and chemical free line. I could tell she was very concerned about this and I know this is probably a question many people have. Here is what I told her.

When we think of a chemical, we tend to associate the word with harsh acids that can lead to burns, redness, irritation, etc. But, what is it really?

By definition, a chemical compound is basically two or more atoms of different elements united chemically. The simplest way to illustrate this is by using water as an example. Two atoms of Hydrogen are joined with one Oxygen atom giving you water (H2O) and (gasp!) a chemical compound. So yes, water is a chemical. You can see why it irks me when I hear makeup or skincare companies touting their products as ‘chemical’ free. If that were the case, then they would be selling you nothing. In any case, most companies are phasing or have phased out controversial ingredients such as parabens and phthalates but that is a whole different story.

Second, the molecular structure of a product has a lot to do with how it works on your skin. Makeup products typically have a large molecular structure which means they just ‘sit’ on the skin. The molecule is too big to penetrate through all the layers of your skin and make its way into your bloodstream, and at the end of the day, you wash it off.

Bottom line, after I presented my view, I told my friend that it is ultimately up to her to decide what she feels is best for her. I did tell her to keep in mind that most ‘organic’ products have a shorter shelf-life due to minimal, natural or no preservatives and to always conduct a patch test before trying out a product. Just because something is ‘natural’ doesn’t mean it can’t cause a reaction/problem.

I hope you found this post informative and helpful and as always, if you have any questions, feel free to shoot me an email.

Oh, and don’t forget to enter my ‘thank you’ giveaway by clicking here. Only a few more days before the winner is announced!

Have a great Thursday and thanks for reading,

Stephanie

Easy Day To Night Makeup Look!

October 22, 2014

Last week I went to a concert and wanted something I could wear to work yet amp it up (quickly) for nighttime. Here is what I came up with.

Get The Look (Day)

Face

Foundation: Smashbox Liquid Halo HD Foundation in 2

Eyes: I used the Urban Decay Naked Palette but any gray and brown eyeshadow should work

Concealer: Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer in Vanilla

Lids -Gunmetal

Crease- Buck

Eyeliner (top only)- Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner

Mascara: Make Up Forever Smoky Extravagant

Cheeks: Too Faced Pink Leopard Blushing Bronzer

Lips

Laura Mercier Lip Glacé in Blush

Transform from day to night with a few products.

Get The Look (Night)

Eyes

Lid- I applied L.A. Splash Cosmetics SplashProof Sealer Base on top of the existing Gunmetal Shadow before patting on L.A. Splash Cosmetics Body/Face Glitter in Rock Star. The sealer gives the glitter something to grip on to but is optional.

Eyeliner- Line bottom lashes with Urban Decay 24/7 Velvet Glide-On Eye Pencil in Black Velvet and trace over it with Gunmetal.

Mascara- Add another coat of mascara Make Up Forever Smoky Extravagant

Lips

Bite Beauty Luminous Creme Lipstick in Palomino

You can customize this look to your preference. Skip the glitter if you feel it’s too much or stick to a lighter lip color.

Hope you enjoyed this look and thanks for reading,

Stephanie

P.S. I’m also now on Instagram so you can follow me and share with me all your beauty addictions/questions https://instagram.com/stephieestie

Berry Autumn Look!

October 2, 2014

Over the weekend I decided to create a makeup look inspired by fall colors/trends. I think all skin tones can try this with room for modification.

Key Products Needed

Basically, you’ll need an orange eyeshadow, any shade(s) of brown, your favorite eyeliner/mascara and a berry lip color.

Complete Product List

Face

Smashbox Liquid Halo HD Foundation SPF 15 in 2

Nars Concealer in Vanilla

Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Medium/Deep Matte Bronzer

Eyes

Highlight/Brow: MAC Shroom

Lid: MAC Orange

Crease: MAC Texture

Outer Corner: MAC Bronze

Eyeliner (top): Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Caviar Ink

Eyeliner (bottom): Sephora Contour Eye Pencil 12 HR Wear Waterproof in Cappuccino

Mascara: Make Up For Ever Smoky Extravagant

Lips

Tarte LipSurgence Lip Tint in Moody

And there you have it. You can also just wear the orange eyeshadow with a brown on the crease and finish with eyeliner if you want a more basic look. Hope you enjoyed this look and make sure to visit and ‘like’ my Facebook page for additional tips and information!

Fall Favorites!

September 11, 2014

With fall practically right around the corner, here’s a couple of my favorite things I look forward to this season.

First on the list: pumpkins! With everything pumpkin flavored or scented abound, one of my favorite pumpkin related items are pumpkin peels. With glowing skin as a trend, a pumpkin peel can be a great way to attain this look-more about this in a future post!

Fall makeup trends! Of course you don’t need to adhere to these trends-makeup is after all a representation of your unique style- but here’s a brief overview of what’s ‘in’, this season.

Eyes: Blue shadow seems to be the dominate color followed by metallic silver, bronze and gold liquid shadows and liners. Liner and lashes take inspiration from the 1960’s (think Twiggy).

Lips: Depending on the look you want to exude, lips can range from shades of burgundy, velvet purple or red. Natural lips were also seen everywhere during Fashion Week.

Cheeks: Stick to natural shades of blush (or even bronzer) to balance out the eyes or lips.

Tea! Although any time is a great for tea, I just love the idea of curling up with a cup of hot tea on a cold night to unwind. Yes, I am obsessed with anything lavender 🙂

TV shows: By far one of my favorite shows, Once Upon A Time! Fairy tale stories, villains and awesome makeup. Other shows I am really looking forward to: Revenge, Bones,and Criminal Minds.

Scents: Season scented soaps to envelop your senses with!

Candles! Always a great way to end a day with while sipping tea.

What’s your favorite aspect of fall?

Purple Evening Look!

July 22, 2014

A simple and pretty makeup look that enhances your eye color and is perfect for a night out!

Face

Foundation: Use your favorite foundation, tinted moisturizer or powder. (Smashbox Liquid Halo HD Foundation in 2)

Bronzer: I chose a matte bronzer but shimmer can work too (Too Faced Chocolate Soleil)

Blush: Soft pink color (Nars Blush in Douceur)

Eyes

Highlight: A light beige color on the lid

Contour: A medium brown on the crease

*I used a neutral palette for the highlight and contour colors so I don’t have specific shade names*

Inner Corner Lid: A shimmery silver color (NYX Eyeshadow in Snow Candy)

Lid: A purple color on the lid (Lancome Color Design Eyeshadow in Drama)

Liner: I used black eyeliner to line both the lashline and waterline (Cailyn Line-Fix Gel Eyeliner in Black (top) and Urban Decay 24/7 Velvet Glide-On Eye Pencil in Black Velvet (bottom)). Then, I used a small angled brush to smudge the same purple eyeshadow I used on the lids (Drama) to the bottom lashline.

Mascara: Black mascara (Make Up For Ever Smoky Extravagant)

Lips

A berry shade (Tarte LipSurgence Natural Lip Tint in Moody)

You can make this look a bit more dramatic by adding false eyelashes and rocking a red lip or tone it down by using a nude lip color.

Happy Tuesday!