Flawless Faux Tan : Summer Bronze Goddess Glow

Summer is all about having "The Glow", below I have broke down three simple steps to making sure you have a FLAWLESS FAUX TAN. 

1. Skin Prep: Exfoliate -  Orico London  SKIN JIVE Revving Body Exfoliator ($31) This body exfoliator gently exfoliates the skin of city pollutants to promote elasticity and radiance.  The texture of this product is not overly grainy like typical exfoliators which suprised me actually, but I loved the way my skin felt after using this - extremely smooth. 
2. Apply Body Tanner -  Tarte Cosmetics Brazilliance™ Skin Rejuvenating Maracuja Self Tanner ($39) Infused with the amazing Maracuja this self tanner has proven to give one of the most natural-looking results.  It also comes with a mitt to increase the ease of application.  
3. Color Correction -  Bronze Buffer Sponge ($8) This sponge was made specifically to clean any mistakes when tanning from nails, streaking , to blotchiness.  Now there is no reason why your tan can not look effortless when you have a Bronze Buffer available to use.  

Maintaining your Summer Bronze Goddess Glow this summer is so easy  -  Happy Bronzing !!  

The Five Shades of Lipstick EVERY Darkskin Woman Should be Wearing This Summer

The temperatures are finally rising and Summer is quickly approaching.  There are five key shades that Women of Color  ( primarily my Dark Skin Honeys) need to have in their makeup collections.  I chose to address Darker tones , because a lot of the time some of us tend to think "oh I'm too dark to wear that" .  No my love,  you're not.  I'm not mentioning anything new , but just 5 shades you should have and if these were all you collected your collection would be complete

** DISCLAIMER : I did not list "Nudes" because I think having a Nude lipstick should be a given, so "Nudes" did not make the cut. **

RED

Wet n Wild Fergie Collection - Saraghina | Lancome L'Absolu Rouge -  160 Rouge Grande Amour | NARS Velvet Matte Pencil- Cruella | Mally Beauty Evercolor Satin Lipstick -  Warm Red | LORAC Breakthrough Performance Lipstick - Leading Lady | Smashbox Be Legendary Lipstick x Donald Robertson -  BING | MAC Retro Matte Lipstick -  Ruby Woo 

Red -  a very controversial color to wear.  Some "beauty publications" have made charts on the "proper shade of red for your skintone" - and Blue Based Vivid Reds are NEVER recommended for "US" . For someone with less knowledge / experience with Makeup - they would just follow said chart and never experiment.  Truth is ,  Dark women CAN wear bright Reds !  We do not have to be confined to Dark Reds with a Brown tint ( only if you choose to be of course) .  Mally Beauty Warm Red is a lovely Satin Finish ,  NARS Velvet Matte Pencil in Cruella is a amazing Matte Red , MAC Ruby Woo is a Cult Favorite blue based Red that is popular amongst many .  There is a confidence that a Red lip gives that is inexplicable , but if you do not own a vivid Red Lipstick , now is the time! 

ORANGE

MAKE UP FOREVER Rouge Artist Intense -  #40 | Rimmel Lasting Finish Lipstick by Kate Moss - 10 | Kat Von D  Studded Kiss Lipstick -  A go go | MAC Matte Lipstick Limited Edition - Dangerous ( will be re-releasing soon) | Tarte Cosmetics Aquallilies for Tarte glamazon pure performance 12-hour Lipstick - Timeless (limited edition /discontinued) | Rimmel Lasting Finish Lipstick by  Kate Moss - 110 | NARS AUDACIOUS Lipstick -  Lana |

Orange ( and some shades of Coral were thrown in ) is a color many women think they can not pull off.  Another Beauty Myth BUSTED!  Oranges are very pretty on US !  Again ,  some colors may require a lip liner - sometimes a red makes a nice contrast.  I love to pair  MAC Dangerous with a Red Lip Liner , as well as NARS Audacious Lana .  Shades like Kat Von D - A go go , I love to wear on its own - and its a Neon Orange !  It sounds risky , but the payoff is so worth it.  The best way to explain a Orange lip is - you don't want to be as "serious" or "directly sexy" with a Red , you want to be fun be just as direct and bold just not the same way with a Red .  Then opting for Orange is perfect -  like while on Holiday , a fun night out ,  daytime , etc....  ( Reds are appropriate those times too -  no rules !! ) .  

PINK

Smashbox Be Legendary Lipstick - Electric Pink | NARS AUDACIOUS Lipstick - Claudia | LORAC Alter Ego Lipstick - Showgirl | Tarte Cosmetics Glamazon Pure Performance 12-Hour Lipstick - Whimsy | MAC Matte Lipstick - Candy Yum Yum  | NARS Lipstick - Schiap 

Pink is my favorite color so of course I would list that you need a shade of Pink.  Whether it be a Cool Pink like NARS Audacious Claudia or a bright bold like NARS Schiap or its budget friendly counterpart MAC Candy Yum-Yum , a Pink is necessary.  As long as paired with the appropriate liner ( when necessary )  ,  these colors do not disappoint.  

FUCHSIA

NYX Cosmetics Matte Lipstick - Shocking Pink | Sephora Collection Rouge Cream Lipstick - R11 Love Test | Sleek MakeUP  True Colour Lipstick - Mystic | Smashbox Be Legendary Lipstick - Fuchsia Flash Matte | MAC Retro Matte Lipstick  Flat out Fabulous

Some would say ,  "but isn't this like wearing a Pink?" - and the answer is No.  Shades of Fuchsia wear darker than a bright pink - although some colors above do look pink and are even named pink these colors are not true pinks.  Yes they are bright , but have plum /fuchsia undertones.  Fuchsia is perfect for when you want a bold bright lip  ( like Lupita at Cannes) , but you don't want to do Pink. Shades like MAC's Flat out Fabulous , and Sleek MakeUP's Mystic are MUSTS haves. 

DEEP 

Sephora Collection Rouge Cream Lipstick -  R24  (Discontinued) | MAC Matte Lipstick - Diva | Wet n Wild Mega Last Lips Color  - Cherry Bomb 918D  | MAC Cosmetics Limited Edition Lorde Lipstick - Pure Heroine (Discontinued) | NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil - Train Bleu 

Deep shades whether it be shades of wines, purples, cranberries - tones that wear very dark but are not quite a full on black lip.  Most would say this is a Winter/Fall appropriate color but its quite sexy to spice things up in the summer with a dark Vampy lip. NARS'  Train Bleu is an amazing color if you have to choose one, and if you are on a budget Wet n Wild in Cherry Bomb is a great choice.  I don't like to follow "rules" anyway ! 

If this post can convince just 1 woman to take a chance and play with color and have fun , I know I've done my job !  You don't need these much lipsticks as I have pictured, but if you have at least 1 from each color category you will be set for having the "basics" !  

Happy Thursday !  

Happy Earth Day !!!!

Tarte Cosmetics Spring 2015 Collection is the best way to kick off Earth Day.  Tarte has been dedicated to being a Sustainable , Earth - Friendly brand AGES before it became on trend.  Year after year Tarte has come with new products that are made from Bamboo  ( Brushes) , featured Amazonian Clay ,  and did not include harsh ingredients like Mineral Oil, Parabens,  Gluten , etc..   I thought it was only fitting that my #MOTD  today be solely  Tarte Products.

• Showstopper Clay Palette 
• Clay Pot Amazonian Clay Liner
• Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Foundation 
• Park Avenue Princess Lipstick 

For more information , or to shop the products above  check out TarteCosmetics.com and Sephora.com.  

Happy Earth Day ! 

Coral Confidential : The Best Coral Shades for Dark Skin at EVERY PRICE!!!! Stock up for Spring!

From Left : BH Cosmetics "Coral Escape", Sephora Collection "1st Night 13", Rimmel London "#110", Tarte Cosmetics "Timeless" 

Wow .. It's 2015 !  First and foremost Happy New Year !!! It's only January but its never too early to get ready for Spring / Resort Season . I recently purchased BH Cosmetics Creme Luxe Lipstick in "Coral Escape" and it dawned on me that I have a fond love of Coral Shades of lipstick.  So I went into my "stash" and I found three similar shades that all are fabulous shades of coral that would look amazing on Dark Skin.
Here is a swatch of the colors :

1. Sephora Collection Rouge Cream Lipstick in "1st Night 13" (Mid Priced at $12.50) - The only shade in my group of "corals" that is a bit more on the pink/rosey side. There is something about this color.  I purchased this late Summer ( August) , and it looked AMAZING on my tanned Dark Skin that was paired with a Highlighter ( Becca Cosmetics Topaz)  it really is a pretty shade .  
2. BH Cosmetics Creme Luxe Lipstick in "Coral Escape" (Steal! at $3.95) - This is a true shade of Coral and is very pigmented + moisturizing.  It appears to be the brightest shade in the group.  Usually lower priced items fail on some aspects, but this lipstick delivers on texture, pigment and packaging - I can't really complain when this was under 5 bucks.  If you're in a financial bind but you want to look F L A W L E S S ,  get this shade !!  
3. Aqualillies for Tarte Limited Edition Glamazon Pure Performance 12-Hour Lipstick in Timeless ( Splurge at $16 / but it's actually a Steal because this is the sale price) - This lipstick goes on smooth like a cream but it stays put like a lip stain with a almost Matte finish , but its moisturizing so your lips will not dry out.  I love this bright shade of Coral  , and being that it is Limited Edition and on Sale I suggest snagging them up before they're gone forever.  
4. Rimmel London Lasting Finish Matte Lipstick by Kate Moss #110 (Bargain at $5.59) - I have a special love for the Rimmel London Kate Moss lippys.  They really exceed the expectations of "drugstore" products.  #110 is a vibrant shade or Coral, it has a very Matte finish so it is very important that your lips are exfoliated and moisturized prior to wearing it.  I've also found that the Rimmel shades ( the Mattes) can be a bit drying so I suggest exfoliating prior and the night after wearing it slather on some lip balm before bed and you should be fine.  

Hope you will try out all of these shades soon!  Happy Shopping !!!  

Bronzed Goddess 101: CONTOURED, BRONZED and GLOWING everything you need to have the GLOW this Summer !!!

LORAC 3D Liquid Lustre ($16- $18) | LORAC afterGlow Eye Shadow Palette ($24) | LORAC SummerGlow Eye Shadow Palette  ($24) | BECCA Shimmering Skin Perfector in Topaz ($38) | BECCA Perfect Skin Mineral   Foundation in Sienna ($40) | BECCA Perfect Skin Mineral Foundation in Cacao ($40) | Laura Geller Baked imPRESSions Bronzer in Deep ($31) | Laura Geller Baked Body Frosting in Tahitian Glow ($45) | Mally Shimmer, Shape and Glow ($49.50) | Sleek Face Form in Dark ($14.99) | Tarte Cosmetics Maracuja Bronzing Serum ($47) | Sleek Bronze Block in Dark ($11.49) | Tarte Cosmetics The Sculptor Contouring Face Slenderizer ($24) | LORAC TANtalizer Highlighter and Matte Bronze Duo ($32) | 

OMG .. where do I start ? First I'd like to confess that I honestly wear bronzer pretty much all year round. I am so looking forward to the rising temperatures ( potential trips) that will allow me to have a natural glow so that my glow will be taken to the NEXT level.  Until then,  I will be relying on a few cool products ( listed above) to give me that extra OOMF.  What I will say is that there is amazing products in every price bracket  from low $14.99 Sleek Face Form  to high $49.50 Mally Shimmer, Shape and Glow.  One key word of advice to Tarte Cosmetics ( I love the brand) ,  The Sculptor Contouring Face Slenderizer is amazing - but only if you are Fair to Medium, so me being a Deep tone this does not work for me. PLEASE make this in a darker shade!  For us Darker gals,  BECCA  Perfect Skin Mineral Foundation in Cacao and Sienna will give you that Contour/ Bronze you want , and Sleek Face Form in Dark and Medium will work great too.  A subtle hint of light around the eyes is key, and I love the 3D Liquid Lustre in Diamond and Gold will work wonders!  I love the fun vibrant shades in both afterGlow and SummerGlow Eye Shadow Palettes these shades will really compliment a bronzed skin tone.  I love the idea of adding a hint of bronzed highlight to other parts of the body since we will be showing a little bit more skin.  Laura Geller Baked Body Frosting in Tahitian Glow will be a perfect addition to your routine. So with that said, go out there and get the GLOW !

Naked . Flawless . Skin . How to achieve a Barely There Face Inspired by Beyonce's "Ghost" Video

One of my favorite looks from Beyonce's visual album is the barely there naked makeup look in the Ghost video.  This "natural" look entails more than what meets the eye , luckily for you I've provided a detailed step by step process with product suggestions on creating this look which I like to call : Naked. Flawless. Skin.

You need to have a good skincare regimen ... or begin one.  
A quick cost-friendly "pick me up" is Biore Self Heating One Minute Mask . Infused with natural charcoal, this thermal mask opens pores and draws out dirt. It finishes with a cooling sensation for tingly-smooth skin in just one minute.  You can also follow with the Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser throughout the week .
For your nighttime routine "not so cost friendly but WORTH every penny" .  I like the use of Tarte Pure  Maracuja Oil along with the C- Brighter eye treatment.  You will see the difference in your skin as well as your eye area with continued use , and because the formulas are so potent a little goes a LONG way.  For your daytime routine, I suggest Josie Maran Pure Argan Milk or the 100% Pure Argan Oil or 100% Pure Argan Oil light ( if you want a lighter feel) . Your skin will be be beyond hydrated and you can begin your "Ghost" inspired look .

Weightless Liquid High Definition Foundation
We're just going for the Naked look, but we are not taking it literal...  So a liquid coverage is the BEST way to go.  Just blends into the skin and you wont have the Matte powder "made up" look.  You want a "smooth glow" .. I really like  Urban Decay's Naked Skin Weightless Ultra Definition Makeup , and Smashbox Liquid Halo HD Foundation are my two suggestions.Both provide full coverage, really feel weightless , and your skin really will look great in photos as well as in person. Both provides great shades for Darker tones too -
plus!

Glossy Lids 
Beyonce has been know to sport this for years now, but this is a old trick done by all of the Pro's .  You can use Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream alone on the lids or over a shadow ( other looks) and since the lids have powder as a base its very easy to remove.  A little goes a LONG way. For the Naked look , I would say add a little bit on just the middle of the lids and you can use a very sublte bronze / light brown shadow as a base .  Another trick is to use just a clear gloss (one that is not too thick or sticky) on the lids . A good recommendation is Josie Maran High Gloss Lip Quench. ** You can fill in your brows sparingly with a brown pencil , followed by a sweep of brow gel over the brows**

Dark Defined Lashes 
Since everything is toned down, your lashes really take the lead. You really don't need to apply false lashes, but you NEED a good mascara.  Mally Beauty Instant Impact Duo magnifies the lashes , without adding volume and "clump" giving the lashes a lightweight feeling -  exactly what you're going for. You will not be applying to the bottom lash line ( although I LOVE to do that - , just not for this look) .

Highlight the Eyes 
My favorite part of this look is the lower lash line.  I love how the eyes are illuminated , yet in a subtle way. You can achieve this with Mally Beauty Lightwand Eye Brightener.  You can also highlight the inner rims of the eyes with the sponge applicator side of the wand.  This works wonders !

Natural Flushed Cheeks 
A hint of color is all you need. You definitely need a cream blush/ cheek tint texture.  I really like Tarte Cheek Stain and Josie Maran Argan Color Stick as choices for the cheeks.

Barely There Lips
A nude glossy lip is key.  Mally Beauty High Shine Liquid Lipstick Pen in "Deep Nude" , "Natural Nude" or "Light Nude" -  depending on your complexion / your preference.

There you have it,  a detailed step by step breakdown on how to achieve this flawless look,  enjoy!!

Matte Shadow sets for Dark Skin Girls : LORAC PRO Palette vs. Tarte Be MATTEnificent Amazonian Colored Clay Matte Eye & Cheek Palette

I have done a lot of research on reviews on certain palettes / eye shadow colors on darker skin and a lot of the time the swatches shown are complexions way lighter than mine - so I'm still left with ..... NOTHING.

I really don't rely on reviews as I am always willing to try new things out on my own, but I've realized that many other Dark Skinned girls who may not be as makeup savvy as I would run into a problem determining if its worth giving a try.  First thing first -  both sets are a neutral / nude tone based set so of course the color range will be in creams , whites, browns and beiges.

First up, LORAC PRO Palette -  I really LOVE this collection 16 shadows .  8 Matte and 8 Shimmer colors to choose from.  You also get a Mini Behind The Scenes Eye Primer!  What I've been noticing in many palettes till recently with ( Naked Basics and Be MATTEnificient) , palettes tend to be predominately shimmer/ satin shades with 1, 2, maybe 3 tops of shadows with a Matte finish.  So I LOVE that we get an equal range.  I've been a bit obsessed with a Matte eye ( think 90's supermodel  makeup) .  So I really appreciate LORAC for giving us this equal opportunity.  

The Mattes (Top Natural Light , Bottom Flash)  :  White , Cream, Taupe, Lt. Pink, Mauve, Sable, Espresso, Black .

As you can see the pigmentation is pretty great ( certain brands you need to have on primer to get the color to appear on darker skin - not a issue here) , and even on my dark skin you can tell the difference in the different light shades.  The white looks like white and light pink looks like light pink.  Taupe really blends into my skin tone - would be a great option to use in the crease when you want to do a light dramatic eye.

The Shimmers (Top Natural Light , Bottom Flash) : Nude, Champagne, Gold, Lt. Bronze, Pewter, Garnet, Deep Purple, Slate

The shimmery shades compliment the matte ,  practically the shimmery counterpart to each color in the other row. I love that "Slate" is like a Charcoal shade , and honesty "Black" ( Matte) reads like a Charcoal ( at least on my skin) .  "Gold" and "Garnet" and "Pewter" are very pretty and "Nude" "Champagne" and "Lt. Bronze" are great for the inner rims of the eyes as well as lower lash line to really make the eyes "pop" .  Especially on us Darker skinned girls , dabbing a little bit of a shimmery Nude shade to the inner rims really does something for us -  just try it !!

Conclusion : This palette is everything I thought it would be and more. At $42 dollars this is a steal for the amount of colors you get and I LOVE that there is 8 MATTE shadows , and if you ever find yourself being "over" the whole MATTE thing you have 8 Shimmery shades waiting for you!!

Tarte Be MATTEnificent Amazonian Colored Clay Matte Eye & Cheek Palette ( Limited Edition , not sure if it is still available for sale )  - first, I'd like to say that Tarte gets a bad rap for not providing range and color options for Darker Skinned girls.  This is not true , although there could be MORE, I would not say that the brand does not cater to us at all .  There is many products that Dark Skinned girls can use , from the concealer , foundation, lipsticks, blushes and cheek tints. 

Flash 

Natural Light 

Eye Shadow Colors From Top Left :  "Sand out from the crowd"  "Peach for the Stars" "Two Plums Up" "Dream in Chocolate" Blush Color : "Elevated"

Eye Shadow Colors From Bottom Left : "Pink outside the box" "Rose to the occasion" "View from the Taupe" "Don't Stand Black" 

Shadows : These have really good pigment (as you can see) and even on my dark skin all of the shades are showcased independently.  This is all WITHOUT primer, so imagine on the lids how these colors will just POP! You can differentiate "Sand out from the crowd" from "Pink outside the box", they all don't just look "white" on me - which is a plus.  The shadows all have a velvety smooth texture which I love. The two shadows which are intended to act as "liners" could easily be used in the "crease" as well - but only for Dramatic looks.  I really love this range of nude Matte colors with the contrasting plum shade which isn't your "typical" brown or black in the crease. Especially for spring "Two Plums Up" is going to be very pretty on the lids. 

Cheek Color : There is no way I can wear "Elevated" as a blush color , there is just NO way.  It will read as as me being "ashy" . This is the only factor not making this palette perfect I would just use the cheek stain as a eyeshadow - multi purpose!!  

Conclusion : This is a great palette , despite nay sayers -  this CAN be used on Dark Skin.  Colors read very well on Dark Skin.  The Blush color is the problem .  This shade is NOT universal , it will not look great on Darker Skinned girls.  I have used many Tarte Blushes , so I know that they offer cheek colors that look great on me.  I can't say this is a perfect palette due to this one factor, BUT I suggest it 100% because it is an all MATTE palette and you can't ever have enough Matte shadows and this range will transition great into day and night looks.  

Fall Beauty Blueprint !

Happy first week of Fall !!!  I wanted to map out some fabulous products which are perfect for this season. 

Luminous Complexion with Flushed Cheeks 

Smashbox Cosmetics Liquid Halo HD Foundation SPF 15 

Smashbox Halo Long Wear Blush in "In Bloom" 

Now that the climate is colder its detrimental to your skin to use products that are hydrating as our skin tends to get dryer as the temperatures drop. 

Deep Berry Lips in Matte or a Gloss Stain
RiRi Loves MAC in "Talk that Talk"
Rimmel London Lasting Finish Matte by Kate Moss in "107" and "111" 
Mally Beauty Melted Lipstick Duo in "Mulberry/Pink" and "Punch/Mauve"
Its all about deeper hues on the lips , and I love the idea of still wearing a deeper pink like the shades in the Melted Lipstick Duo sets.


Neutral Eyes with Statement Winged Liner
Mally Beauty In the Buff 11 Piece Eyeshadow Palette  
Rimmel Glam'Eyes Professional Liquid Liner in "Black Glamour"
Rimmel ScandalEyes Waterproof Gel Eyeliner in "Blackest Black"
Below is a shot of the gel liner , it goes on with precision , and it is truly the "Blackest Black" , I kept the eyelid nude and focused on liner.

Statement Fall Nails : Nudes, Browns, Wines , Violet
Nails Inc Autumn Winter 2013 Collection : "St. Martins Lane, Old Bond Street, Regent Street, Oxford Street, George Street, Kensington Place" 
I absolutely love this collection , check out "Old Bond Street" on my nails below :

We can't forget about taking care of our skin before and after our makeup application ...

I love the Burt's Bees Aloe and Witch Hazel Hand Sanitizer , I don't think I'll ever go back to the gel form anymore which I usually kept on hand near my makeup station.  I love using this spray while prepping for the day, it is refreshing and it is 100% natural.  Perfect for quick cleansing of the hands before applying makeup , contacts, etc..  Its the perfect size to just toss in your handbag.
The Biore Line is near and dear to me ,  I love these products which are cost friendly. Cleansers:
The Deep Cleansing Steam Activated Cleanser as well as the Complexion Clearing Blemish Fighting Ice Cleanser are going to be on rotation. Alternating between the week between the two cleansers. The Blemish Treatment Astringent is great in the mornings and at night after cleansing your face.  It really does clear up your complexion.  Now that the fall season is here, I am incorporating this in my daily regimen again.  Once a week ( or sometimes twice - we've all been there)  ,  a mask ( or masque)  is key my suggestions  are the  Double Detox™ Amazonian clay exfoliating facial mask by Tarte Cosmetics.  My t- zone area tends to be the epicenter of blackheads unfortunately, and I refuse to walk around looking like a acne "before" picture. This brings us to my second recommendation -  Joey New York Bye Bye Blackheads.

I hope you enjoyed this beauty blueprint as much as I enjoyed putting it together.  Happy Friday!

My Top Ten Favorite Nominees from the QVC 2013 Customer Choice Awards !!!!

It's that time of year again!! The QVC 2013 Customer Choice Awards are here and some of my favorite brands/ products are up for the coveted prize of being the "best in the biz". I chose my top ten products which are running in their respective categories.   Below , you will find my full list of the items pictured above - which got my vote ( I hope they get your vote too!)

1. Mally Beauty Volumizing Mascara - Best Mascara Nominee *No need for Falsies*
2. Mally Beauty Waterproof Eyeliner - Best Eyeliner Nominee
3. Tarte Cosmetics C Brighter Maracuja Anti-Aging Eye Treatment - Best Eye Cream Nominee
4. Mally Beauty Ultimate Performance Dream Brow - Best Brow Nominee
5. L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream - Best Hand Cream Nominee
6. Mally Beauty High Shine Liquid Lipstick Pen - Best Lip Product Nominee
7. Mally Beauty Poreless Face Defender - Best Finishing Product Nominee **My favorite**
8. Mally Beauty Cancellation Concealer System - Best Concealer Nominee 
9. Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer - Best Primer Nominee 
10. Mally Beauty Ever Color Shadow Sticks - Best Eye Shadow Nominee

 You can vote for all categories  HERE !!!! Voting is live until September 20th at 11:59pm EST. 

Happy Voting!!! 

Bold Brows like Cara D !!!!!!

Cara Delevingne is the epitome of Brows ! We have not seen a perfect Brow reference since Brooke Shields in her modeling days... Although some are not into the Bold Statement Brows , I am all FOR IT!  I think every woman looks better with a full brow, and its very youthful. This has been my brow look of choice for years now and I'm happy to see so many more women letting their brows grow in more.  We no longer need to over wax, tweeze, thread our brows to those ghastly thin arches.  In case you don't know where to begin or whats the best products to use to evoke the inner Cara in you -  check out my checklist of fab finds to give you those bold brows! Enjoy !! xxx

Amazonian clay waterproof brow mousse -  Tarte Cosmetics $28 | 5-ELEMENT BROW KIT - Anastasia Beverly Hills $65 | BROW GENIUS KIT - Anastasia Beverly Hills $24 | The bright side double-ended brightener - Tarte Cosmetics $20 | BROW DUALITY - Anastasia Beverly Hills $23 | Amazonian clay waterproof brow pencil - Tarte Cosmetics $19.50 | BROW PEN - Anastasia Beverly Hills $21 | BROW WIZ - Anastasia Beverly Hills $21 | AFTER TWEEZE CREAM - Anastasia Beverly Hills $20 |

Radiant Summer Skin ... From the Inside Out !

Get glowing radiant skin with these key products / routines !!! 

1. The Glowing Green Smoothie -  a must for everyone who wants to naturally glow from their skin to healthy hair and nails. This smoothie recipe ( which is a beauty-boosting blend of super ingredients that nourish the body for a radiant natural glow.) is by Celebrity Nutritionist Kimberly Snyder author of "Beauty Detox Solution" as well as "Beauty Detox Foods".  Kimberly breaks down why we need to say au revoir to all the processed monsters and embrace healthy nutritious alternatives and get our sexy back in the process!! What we all NEED for the summer.  You can find out more info as well as purchase these books and get cool recipes ( the 5 Delicious and Beautifying Summer Drink Recipes is a must read on her site !! ) at www.kimberlysnyder.net 

2. Previse 3 minute Skin Health -  this process is awesome !  You take a mini survey/ quiz of sorts on their website to figure out what skin you are ( I am a type 6) . Upon completion, you are directed to the products appropriate to your type - three step system includes 1- Purify ( a cleanser) 2 - Nutrify ( a nourishing liquid formula which fights free radicals amongst other pollutants) and last but not least 3 - Defend ( a moisturizer). I really love this moisturizer I have to add ! On days when I am au naturale and makeup-free it really does the trick! I had so many questions before starting the Previse journey and this company is beyond amazing with their customer service as well as informative on other healthy tips on living ( I learned about a fun combination for infused water aptly named "Sassy Water" pictured, above-  on their blog) .  Using the Previse system I was still able to use other products in conjunction ( see 3. Below) . I noticed a change in my skins texture and their Sunscreen ( not pictured above, ) is amazing as well.  I highly recommend PreviseCare to everyone ! 

3. Tarte Cosmetics Maracuja C- brightener eye treatment ,  Pure Maracuja Oil - I use the Pure Maracuja oil at night and even in conjunction with the Previse system ( swapped out step 3 at night for the oil).  This oil does everything it intends to - my skin appeared brighter, less breakouts, tighter and firmer.  I am getting sad as its been a few months so my supply is low and soon I will have to re-stock !  I can not imagine NOT using this in my nightly regimen. I have become so committed, even after a night of partying I will make sure to apply this magic in a bottle.  That's exactly what it is ! I've been a Tarte fan for years and with time the products have only gotten better and even more natural than before. This oil is an Investment! Also, the C-brightener eye treatment is a must ( if you have dark circles , or you feel your skin around the delicate eye area appears tired and dull) ! I would suggest to use this day and night - before makeup application / in use with the Pure Maracuja Oil.  

4. Miracle Skin Transformer Acne Control Tinted Skin Enhancer - This formula comes in transparent or tinted options.  Which is great if you want a bit of coverage.  I used this in "Dark" as a base before applying the rest of my products.  This evened out my skin tone instantly ( could be used as a full coverage option) , and it helps prevent / treat acne ( a problem which may occur more during the warmer months with all the heat and sweating which leads to breakouts).  What I loved is that I prematurely popped a white head weeks ago and had an unsightly mark on my forehead and this covered it nicely! No need to spot treat the area with concealer.  If tinted is not your thing the original formula ( pictured, above) works well too! 

5. Smashbox Photo Matte Anti Shine - I am guilty of having the skin that SHINES like nobody's business ! This is perfect for use to get the clean , crisp matte look . The temperatures are already rising... I don't need to be s disco ball as well, and luckily cosmetic companies are creating great products (like this) to help battle this issue. We might want to show more skin for the summer, but what we NEVER want to show are our pores! 

6.  Tarte Cosmetics Lights, Camera, Flashes Statement Mascara - Mascara goes a long way. Even if that's all you apply ( in terms of makeup) with some lip balm this is the perfect option.  This updated re-vamped version to the cult favorite "lights, camera, lashes" - provides up to 752% increase in lash volume instantly!!!! Need I say more ? 

If you noticed the route I took with this Summer Skin breakdown it was nature ..  Using products made of the best naturally derived ingredients as well as eating the right foods ( to treat from within) and of course plenty of H20 , is all we really need to have radiant naturally glowing summer skin ! 

Recipes 

The Glowing Green Smoothie

(source - Kimberly Snyder)

1 1/2 cups water

1 head of organic romaine lettuce, chopped

3-4 stalks of organic celery

1/2 head of a large bunch or 3/4 of a small bunch of spinach 

1 organic apple, cored and chopped

1 organic pear, cored and chopped

1 organic banana

Juice of 1/2 fresh organic lemon

optional:

1/3 bunch organic cilantro (stems okay)

1/3 bunch organic parsley (stems okay)

Directions: Add water and chopped head of romaine to blender. Blend at a low speed until smooth. Add 

celery, apple and pear and blend at high speed. Add cilantro and parsley. Finish with banana and lemon 

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.kimberlysnyder.net

Sassy Water

(source - Previse Care blog) 

3 quarts of water

1 teaspoon freshly grated or thinly sliced ginger

1 medium cucumber thinly sliced

2 medium lemons  thinly sliced

3 – 4 sprigs of mint leaves gently bruised

Prep Time: 5 mins          Yields: 10 – 12 glasses

Slice and prepare ingredients.  Place in the bottom of a pitcher. Add water. Chill overnight for at least 8 hours. Enjoy!

FOR MORE INFORMATION :  http://previsecare.wordpress.com

Have a happy Summer and may you have a natural radiant glow!! 

Kerry Washington channels "Punk Rock Princess" with Tarte Cosmetics for the MET Gala 2013 - Recreate the Look!!

Source : Getty 

get the look: Kerry Washington

event: The Met Gala

makeup artist: celebrity makeup artist Carola Gonzalez at The Magnet Agency for tarte

date: 5/6/13

inspiration: “Kerry represents classic beauty with an edge and the Vera Wang dress she chose is classic with a punk twist. The  stunning violets and blacks in the dress inspired me to create Kerry’s bold, smoky eye.”

complexion:

• To begin, Carola prepped Kerry’s skin with tarte’s clean slate™ poreless 12-hr perfecting primer
• Then she applied tarte’s Amazonian clay waterproof concealer in tan followed by tarte’s maracuja miracle 12-hour foundation in deep to even out Kerry’s complexion

cheeks:

• For the perfect pop of rosy color, Carola dusted tarte’s Amazonian clay 12-hour blush in natural beauty on the apples of her cheeks

eyes:

• To create a dramatic smoky eye, Carola used the purple and silver shadows from tarte’s beauty & the box Amazonian clay eyeshadow quad in envoke the smoke
• Then she lined Kerry’s top and bottom lashlines with Aqualillies for tarte Amazonian clay waterproof linerin black to give her a punk edge
• She finished by lining the lower inner rims with tarte’s lights, camera, lashes™ waterproof inner rim liner (out in July)
• For extra definition she applied five coats of tarte’s lights, camera, lashes™ 4-in-1 mascara

lips:

• To complete her look, she swiped tarte’s glamazon™ pure performance 12-hour lipstick in pure over her lips

All these products are available at Tartecosmetics.com , and this look is really simple to duplicate ..  Have fun channeling your very own "Punk Rock Princess" in honor of the Met exhibit !! 

Tarte Cosmetics LipSurgence™ lip tint and lip luster HAUL !!

Lip Tints and Lip Lusters  , pictured in Natural Sunlight 

Lip Tints and Lip Lusters,  pictured with Flash   - Isnt my Zoya Pixie Dust in "Liberty" cute?? 

I just love  these Tarte Cosmetics LipSurgence™  Lip Lusters and Lip Tints ($24) .  Above,  you will find my palette for the summer season -  which is quickly approaching!!!  My absolute favorites are "Spirited" - which is a nice bright orange shade ( I see a lot of lines are incorporating an Orange shade --- Its the unspoken "it color") , "Adored" - its such a pretty pink! Nudes hold a special place in my heart , and "Buff" is a flirty luster. Honorable mentions - which will also be in rotation are "Moody" - I love the deep wine shades , even if its not the Winter/Fall ,  Im all about breaking the rules.  "Amused" (is actually in the hot pink family, but for or some reason looks a bit like a red in these photos) ,  which leaves a flushed tint on the lips. 

Best in Bronze - My ABSOLUTE Top Picks for Achieving that Glow...

Photo Credit : Pinterest

So you want your glow to be gradual ...... 

Jergens® Natural Glow +FIRMING Daily Moisturizer ($8.99 / Drugstores - The Frugalistas favorite option - its budget FRIENDLY!! )  gradually creates fabulous natural-looking color with a subtle skin-darkening complex. In as little as 7 days you'll experience visibly firmer skin with less noticeable cellulite and improved elasticity.

So you are over applying self tanners and waiting for them to dry , then waiting to get dressed... 

Today at 12am Midnight Josie Maran introduced this revolutionary breakthrough in self - tanners today on QVC and QVC.com ... BODY WASH!!! 

The Argan Self-Tanning Body Wash  ($35 , a $55 Value -  / QVC , QVC.com)  delivers tanning plus hydrating benefits while you shower . Another added bonus is the color develops within 30 seconds and the the body wash disappears in the shower with no staining !!! This Bronze Breakthrough is only available for 24hours only, with sales ending at midnight tonight.  

So you don't have time to exfoliate ( or you don't feel like it!) before going under your Bronzification ..... 

Tarte Cosmetics Brazilliance™ skin rejuvenating maracuja face and body self tanner with mitt ($37 / Tarte.com , Sephora ) is pefect for those who don't want to exfoliate because its key component is the miraculous Maracuja oil which adds moisture to the skin.  I love the mitt option , because it becomes tedious to have to worry about stained fingers and nails and have to  obsessively wash your hands. This revolutionary hybrid gel formula, infused with pure maracuja oil, delivers replenishing essential fatty acids along with skin-brightening and youth-preserving vitamin C. tarte’s proprietary PUREshield™ scent-control technology allows for a pleasant, spa-like application that smells unlike any self tanner you've tried before.

You just want to look like you have the "GLOW" , but don't want to Self - Tan... 

Mally Beauty Believable Bronzer ($40 / QVC, QVC.com) is perfect for women who just want a quick bronze fix!  This set includes three powders - a tanning powder for allover color, a shimmer to highlight, and a beautiful sun shade that's designed to make your cheeks radiant like a day at the beach. It's a great contouring set as well , there is many uses for this palette and I ABSOLUTELY LOVE it ! I would suggest even if you are using other forms of Self-Tanners / Bronzers this Bronzer NEEDS to be incorporated in your regime , whichever one you decide on doing. 

Whether you want to be safe from the UV rays and Self Tan at home, or you simply can't afford a quick getaway to that tropical destination , consider one of my options ..  Why not try them ALL?? You will not be disappointed !! 

Happy Bronzing ! 

A is for Aqualillies for Tarte

April marks the arrival of the summer 2013 Aqualillies for Tarte limited-edition collection , which is available at all retailers starting today. This collection of seven waterproof products ranging from eyeliner to lip gloss was inspired by the super glam American synchronized swimming group, the Aqualillies.

Check out these videos from Tarte's YouTube Channel on this fabulous new collection below:

I absolutely LOVE This "Splish Splash"  Get the Look Video  -  its a MUST SEE I want to re-create this look on myself with the cat eyes and bold coral lip .

FYI -  Jen's  brows are the epitome of "Bold Brow" chic -  you can use the amazonian clay gel liner pot in "brown" to achieve these brows as well.

Poolside Coolside is another amazing look , this time with a bold turquoise lined eye. 

Make sure to subscribe to Tarte's Youtube Channel - for more beauty inspo , as well as head on over to Tarte.com , Sephora and Ulta to get these fab finds for the summer!!