Contest, Giveaway, Prizes - Oh My!

Hi Everyone,

Every so often you know that I love giving away something fabulous and fun! This time around I've decided to giveaway the Natural Mineral Kit in No. 1 Santa Barbara from Pixi! This set retails for $25.00.

 The natural makeup trend is really big for Fall, but it's also a timeless and simple look that compliments all faces. You can read more about here or watch my Natural Makeup Tutorial here to learn more. Here are the product details:

This set contains four fabulous eyeshadows, two cheek colors, and two shades of lipgloss. Absolutely perfect for creating that natural look. Click here to find out more details!

 So...

Simple!  THREE WAYS TO WIN!

1. Subscribe to my Blog and write "enter me" in the comments below!

2. Follow me on Twitter and retweet my post about this contest!

          

                                     -AND/OR-

3. Subscribe to my channel on YouTube and write "enter me for the Pixi palette!" in the channel comments!

The choice is yours! I will announce the winner on Monday, September 20th!

Need to have this fabulous palette right now? You can buy it from Target for $17.00!

xo!

A

Recreate Makeup Trends for Fall 2010

 I often find it funny that we know trends for seasons that are months away. How can "they" know?!?! How can magazine editors, fashion designers, and makeup artists know?!?! It's a phenomenon...well not really, but I like to sometimes think it is. I like to believe that there is some magic and mystery that happens at the top of the beauty and fashion industry. Remember that famous quote by Ms. Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada?

"'This... stuff (talking about the racks and racks of clothes)'? Oh. Okay. I see. You think this has nothing to do with you. You go to your closet and you select... I don't know... that lumpy blue sweater, for instance because you're trying to tell the world that you take yourself too seriously to care about what you put on your back. But what you don't know is that that sweater is not just blue, it's not turquoise. It's not lapis. It's actually cerulean. And you're also blithely unaware of the fact that in 2002, Oscar de la Renta did a collection of cerulean gowns. And then I think it was Yves Saint Laurent... wasn't it who showed cerulean military jackets? I think we need a jacket here. And then cerulean quickly showed up in the collections of eight different designers. And then it, uh, filtered down through the department stores and then trickled on down into some tragic Casual Corner where you, no doubt, fished it out of some clearance bin. However, that blue represents millions of dollars and countless jobs and it's sort of comical how you think that you've made a choice that exempts you from the fashion industry when, in fact, you're wearing the sweater that was selected for you by the people in this room from a pile of stuff. The organic nature in the way that trends are thought up, recycled, and reinterpreted. "

If that's not magic, I'm not sure what is! So therefore now that Fall is actually upon us I've had plenty of time to peruse the Fall 2010 trends! I want to share with you not only some of my favorites, but how they can be reinterpreted for us everyday girls on an everyday budget.

1. The Cat Eye & Nude Lip

This look was seen on the Bluemarine models in Milan's Fashion Week. The makeup concept was created by Charlotte Tibury, lead makeup artist for MAC. I love this bold look. I love how the eyes are lined a little heavy on both the top and bottom lid and that the liner is then winged up almost to the brow. This look may be a little too harsh for the everyday girl, so I've thought of a simple way you can soften up this look without killing your budget. Start off by using an oil free foundation, check out Tarte's Peaches & Cream foundation, and create a flawless matte finish. 

This trends focus in on the dark eye, but I would go ahead and do your brows as you normally would. If you choose to try out the muted brow though, it can sometimes look a little too severe for everyday. Using an eye primer, like Benefit Cosmetics' Stay Don't Stray, pat the product on your upper lid and underneath your bottom lash line. The warmth of your figures will work the product onto your lid. I don't really like the cat eye on a bare lid, because again the look can turn out a stronger than you might like to going out with friends or hitting the mall. 

Try using a cream eyeshadow in a light shade, think Maybelline's Eye Studio Cream shadow trio in Natural Liaison for $5.49. I really love the middle brown/bronze shade. It's a drop more pigmented than your natural eye lid color, but still gives the cat eye center stage. As for the show stopper, use a liquid eyeliner on the top of your lid, think Maybelline Stiletto Liquid Liner - Blackest Black for under $6.00. It's actually one of my August Favorites, so I really do recommend it. Use a business card as a guideline, so that the winged out eye is straight and on an angle you really like. As for the bottom lashes start with L'oreal Pencil Perfect Eyeliner in Carbon Black for $1.99 and line your water line. Then using the pencil begin to define your bottom lash line and lightly begin to fill in and match it to the liquid lined wing from your top lashes. Then using the liquid liner darken the pencil line and fill in any spots. The liquid liner is absolutely fine under your bottom lashes, however make sure for your water line that you use a pencil. It's not fun getting liquid eyeliner in your eye, trust me! Curl and add your favorite black mascara to your lashes. Try L'Oreal Volume Shocking Mascara in blackest Blackest Black for $8.99.

The cheeks here are contoured, another trend of the season, right underneath the cheek bones to help facilitate this strong look. To soften this look use a light blush that just warms up the apples of your cheeks just a tad, I really love Orgasm by NARS for this affect. As for the lip, go NUDE! Test out Revlon's Nude Attitude Matte Lipstick for $6.90. You can wear it as is or add just a clear gloss to soften the look a bit. This is a fabulous this look for day or night! It's really versatile and clean. I'm really excited to see it a lot this fall!


Total Cost of the essentials to this look (lipstick, eyeliner, liquid eyeliner, and mascara): Under $30!

2. All Natural
Not many of us would dream to walk out of the house without makeup on and this is certainly not what this trend is suggesting. Rather instead, it's implying that

less is in fact more. This trend is carrying over from the spring and summer and I'm happy to see it. There is a variety of ways you can achieve this look. You can start off by only using foundation to cover any discoloration or blemishes; or use a light tinted moisturizer all over your face to moisturize, but to also even out your skin tone. For example Neutrogena Healthy Skin Enhancer Tinted Moisturizer for $11.49. This gives your face a bit of coverage without being heavy at all. I also like to add concealer, but this is personal preference. I'm really loving the Sonia Kashuk® Hidden Agenda Concealer Set for $9.99, but that's totally an option and not necessary to complete the look.

Next our eyes! The nude lid is very big when it comes to this look. I like to use an eye primer on my lid and that's it sometimes. However, if you'd like to add a little color try playing with shades from the Urban Decay
 Naked Palette, shown above, for a little over $40. Definitely an investment, but it really does have all the colors you'd ever really want for a soft look. If that's a little too steep, try Maybelline Expert Wear Quads in Sunlit Bronze for $4.94.  I love Maybelline quads because if you flip them over they tell you exactly how to put the colors on to achieve the look that you're going for. I really like the subtly of these shades. Make sure you use the lightest color of this quad or a highlight shade to place in the inner corners of your eyes. This not only opens up your eyes, but makes them look super refreshed. For most people achieving this look they'd skip on the eyeliner and I sometimes do too, but if you want to add a pop a color now would be the perfect time. Line your water line with a jewel tone, possibly an emerald green like Almay's intense i-color Eyeliner in Bring Out the Green for under $5.00. However, that's just an option. For mascara, it isn't about building a faux lash with a volumizing mascara; this entire look is based upon enhancing your natural beauty. I instead go for a lengthening mascara. Try Maybelline Lash Expansion Mascara for $6.99. For your cheeks use a light weight blush. Lately I've been enjoying the Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse Blush for $.699 (above). You can easily apply this with your fingers to achieve a subtle glow, for that perfect for the au naturale look. Try it in the shade Peach Satin. As for your lips, you have so many options. You can bite them a few times for some extra added color, eat a cherry lollipop, or leave them alone (haha). But if you want to add a product, first try and see how you like a tinted moisturizing lip balm. I think everyone loves Softlips, but not everyone knows they have a few tinted shades. Try out Softlips Tinted Lip Protectant  in Tickled Pink for under $4.00. Or if you're like me and more of a lipstick gal, test a CoverGirl's Continuous color lipstick out, especially in Smokey Rose for $3.99. I love how it pops just a little while staying true to this trend. This trend is absolutely perfect for an everyday routine. You have to just tailor it to your preferences. Check out these suggestions next time you're at your local drugstore, I promise I won't let you down!

Total Cost of the essentials to this look (foundation, eye quad, mascara, blush, and lip color): UNDER $30!

3. Gold Eyeshadow & Coral Lip

T

This was first seen done by Bobbi Brown and now it's become really popular. Gold tones work with all eye colors and there is a lot of ways in which you can really simply recreate this look. I always love a gold smokey eye! What girl doesn't it? It's incredibly sexy and wearable. Start off with a matte foundation and conceal under your eyes, along your mouth, and around your nose. Make sure you add a primer to your lids, as gold colors can sometimes not be as vibrant as the day wears on. If you're looking to splurge on an eye primer, test out Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion for $18.00. If that's out of your price range, you need not worry. You can easily use concealers as eye primers, despite what some may tell you! At least I do and I find it works fine. Try only these three shades by MAC to achieve this look, each 14.50.

First I love to start off with Honey Lust on the inner first half of my lid. On the second half use Amber Lights and blend, blend, blend! Using Mythology I work the product into my crease and blend into my outer corner. I then apply black eyeliner and use Amber Lights along my lower lashes. Using Honey Lust I highlight my brow bone and the inner corners of my eyes. There are many different ways to achieve a gold look. These are just my absolute three favorite shades to getting my eyes wear I want them. Add a volumizing mascara like Max Factor Volume Couture Mascara for $9.99 and you're good to go! The cheeks here are really subtle, I'd go with one of the Maybelline Dream Mousse Blush in a subtle pinky shade. As for the lips, I like my coral lips to have more of a pop than shown above. So I'd go with Lola's Cherie Amore from my August Favorites. This trend is super fun to put together and a lot easier than one might think!

Total Cost of the essentials to this look: UNDER $60! *Look around your favorite drugstore though, you can probably find gold tones that will do this look justice. 


So there you have it, my favorite must-copy Fall 2010 trends!

I hope you try them out and let me know what you think or how you're doing them!

Tweet me! @makeup_chic
Watch me! Leira821

xo!
A

Make Clothes Not War

Borrowed from bambidextrous.blogspot.com

I can't help but notice all the fall 2010 trends that are finally in stores. I'm still a bit in love with the nautical trend from a few months back, and sort of sad to see it go (some say it isn't...), but fall is making me excited! I absolutely love all the green I've seen lately! And no, unfortunately, I do not mean that I've actually been saving money!

I'm sure you've read about (or have seen) the military trend in magazines or stores for the fall. I began reading about it first the towards the beginning of June, but I wasn't sure how well it would translate to my personal style. I won't lie, I dress a bit girly with bright fun colors all year round. My boyfriend has remarked in the past, "it looks like a rainbow has thrown up in your closet!" and he's right, it definitely has!

However, after my latest shopping trip (and seeing these camel, olive green, grommet accessorized clothes) I became a little obsessed. I would find myself gravitating towards this "New for Fall" section in almost every single shop. As a girl who loves staples pieces when it comes to jewelry, I immediately noticed that this new trend comes equipped with jewelry-like accessories already attached! The olive green and camel hues are fabulous earth tones, but can be easily paired with a pop of color to automatically brighten the look up without changing the vibe.

I've done a bit of research since returning home and I must share my new obsession!

1. Form Fitting Jackets
These come in a variety of shades and colors, but what makes them all a bit similar is the hardware accent. I love how the jackets look rich and refined, but you don't have to spend a lot of money at all! This "A-Ten-Hut" Military Jacket is only $24.80 at Forever21! The fitted style recreates shape and it can be paired with so many things! Try wearing it open and over a very fun girly fall dress or over dark wash skinny jeans and a cami. There are so many ways you can wear this jacket! And last but not least, it's functional! A fall trend that can actually keep you warm...go figure. :)
 
2.  Shirt Dresses
The concept of a shirt dress is nothing new, but I love them for this upcoming season in a variety of green and brown shades. They are comfortable and work with a wide variety of body types and tastes. I love this AGB dress on sale at Macys.com for $39.00! The 3/4 length sleeves are perfect as we ease out of August and into September and the belt adds just a touch of extra interest. You can choose black or olive to purchase it in, but I really like it in the olive color. Add a bangle bracelet or two and some great brown heels or fabulous riding boots and you're ready for the day!


3. Cargo Pants
Now you're thinking ..."um, no!" right? To be honest I've never been a big fan of the cargo pant, capri, or anything with 10,000 pockets that make my hips appear bigger and my butt broader. However, the more I investigate this idea (and try on a few pairs!) I realize how much I like it. You definitely don't have to buy a pair that's overly busy at all. I really like these Poplin Cargo Pant from Wet Seal on sale for $17.99! They come in four different colors: grey, olive, black, and khaki. Most pants of this style come in S, M, L, etc...therefore, they are perfect for those days where you have to get dressed, but would rather not! You can pair these comfortable pants with a simple long sleeved basic-t in a color of your choice and a fun simple necklace and you're good to go! I love how casual these pants are. You can wear them well into the fall, think pairing them with a cable knit sweater. I'm really excited to get my hands on a pair of these babies!
 
4.  Everyday Bags
If there is one trend to invest in for this fall, military would be it! I love investing in one great piece each season and this bag may just be what I've been looking for! Because of the use of earth tones, these military inspired bags really go with a ton of different outfits and can act as your everyday bag. I love that this Lucky Brand 'Runaway' Canvas Crossbody Bag comes in that signature olive color, but has a few touches of worn leather. This bag is big enough for everyday use and at $139 isn't a terrible price for something you plan on carrying for a few months!

5. Ankle Boots
Ankle boots have been all the rage for sometime now, however I think I'm finally warming up to the idea. I used to think that you had to have legs for miles to pull off this look, but it's simply not the case! I love these boots from ZooShoo.com by the brand Bamboo for $29.50! These heeled booties come in black or grey and are rockin' the signature military hardware! I like that can be placed under jeans, over jeans, paired with leggings, or even a dress! They are not only totally affordable, but totally versatile too!


So those are my favorite Five Must Haves for the fall when it comes to this seasons military trend. Comment me and tell me what you think!

And as always...

Tweet with me @makeup_chic
Watch me at Leira821
WIN free a free OXY Clinical set too by clicking the link above!

xo!
A

Five Beauty Tips We Should Take from Jersey Girls!

Let's be honest, Jersey girls take a lot of heat -- and not just the heat from the tanning salon! From their big hair to big attitudes most people have an opinion of girls from Jersey.

T.V. doesn't help either! Jersey Shore, Jerseylicious, Housewives of New Jersey, and a few other shows depict these fabulous women in a not so fabulous light. But if you really think about it, there may actually be something we can learn from these bronzed beauties!

1. The Benefits of a little Color
Now, some of our Jersey girls have gone a little over the edge in their attempts to stay tan, but their reason for doing so isn't crime; it's actually pretty valid. When our skin is a little sun-kissed we look more refreshed, younger, and even a bit thinner. And the best part? There is no need to actually hit the beach for eight hours a day for the entire summer, while potentially damaging your skin! There are amazing sunless tanners that work famously and give your skin that vibrancy it could really use. Furthermore when you're rockin' a nice glow you don't need to put on as much makeup, hence saving you time and money! Check out L'Oreal's Sunless Sublime Glow Daily Moisturizer! Under $10 bucks!

 2. Go ahead! Tease away!

...Your hair that is! You've seen it, the HUGE Jersey hair; compiled of layers upon layers of hairspray, products, and whatever else they jam it to make three times the size of their heads. And well, although some may say that it's not a great look, I think that they've got the right idea. When your hair has a little lift at the roots and a little body, it really opens up your face and can really add a new dimension to your look. Now we all think of "body" in terms of hair height, but it's really the hair texture that the term "body" is referring to. By adding a just a touch of product and quick 5 minute blow dry at your roots, you can change your whole aura! Check out Pantene's Fine Hair Root Lifter Spray -- on $4.70!

Check out LuLus.com!

3. When You Look Good, You Feel Good
Glitter, rhinestones, and spandex are just some of the things we sometimes see our Jersey Girls wearing. And even though we may not want to rock a hot pink tube top with glitter, doesn't necessary mean our Garden State girls are doing anything wrong. It's obvious that they think about and take pride in the outfits that they chose and how they want to look. When you feel like you look good, you feel good. And when you're feeling good you're usually more confident and outgoing; what's wrong with that? Taking pride in your appearance is not only good ol' quality time for yourself and maybe some friends, but it gives you a chance to present yourself to the world how you'd really like to be seen. Instead of throwing on sweatpants and an old t-shirt to run to the supermarket, take 15 minutes and actually put something on. You may be surprised by how you feel and how others treat you! Take a peak at the selection at LuLu's, they have tons of awesome clothes at even better prices.

4. Nails! Nails! Nails!

"Um I'd like my nails really lowng, with purple french tips, and umm yeh yeh - add some silver sparkle to them too...ok great, thanks doll!" 

It's the stereotypical Jersey girl conversation you've either seen on T.V. or heard at your local salon, a pretty young lady asking to have talons glued to her fingernails. For most of us this is not a look that we'd wish to copy. How are you supposed to button a button or tie your shoes with those things attached to your fingers? But I think our clawed gals are on to something. Your hands are not something you can hide with baggy sweat pants or a long t-shirt, and unless you'd like to wear gloves all the time, they are constantly out for the world to see. If you have torn up cuticles, bitten at nail beds, or yesterday's gardening extravaganza underneath your finger nails you look a bit unkempt. And that's not you! You're beautiful and fabulous! For under $10 dollars at some salons you have those babies lookin' great in no time! And for under $10 dollars you can buy a nail kit and clean them up yourself. If you'd like to add color, pick a light shade of polish, like OPI's polish in "It's a Girl!", that's easy to touch up and not as noticeable if it chips. 

5. Stilettos, Heels, and Pumps -- Oh My!
Shore girls can strut! They can rock a 4-inch heel like flip flops. The boardwalk is their runway and they want all eyes on them! And although we may not want to wear a 3 inch black patent leather heel to the office on a Tuesday doesn't mean we shouldn't! It's a little known fact that wearing heels elongates your legs and can make a finishing statement to any basic look. Also, not only are you physically taller, but you psychologically walk a bit taller too. The next time you throw on the same black skirt with your basic black top, think about adding some killer (in appearance, not comfort) colorful pumps! Jessica Simpson has a great line of affordable heels, flats, and boots that are definitely worth checking out!



In the end I know this list can seem a bit silly, but if you think about it Jersey girls are only exaggerating tips, tricks, and girly secrets that we've known forever! So the next time you see a Garden State girl doin' her thing, give her a compliment....or maybe just a smile!

xo!
A

The Fixx is in! Review of Products by Elke Von Freudenberg

Hi Everyone!

Last week I posted a Q&A with celebrity makeup artist and brow specialist, Elke Von Freudenberg. And this week I want to chat about and give a review of the products that I received from The Brow Collection. If you'd like to read our Q&A, click here to read that post!


Too tired to read today? Not a problem! Click here to watch the video of me chatting about Elke and her products!

The first product I received was the Brow Fixx in brunette. Let me start off by saying that my brows are awful! They are at least three shades darker than my natural hair color and small as anything! When I fill them in I find that they're even darker! And if I try to blend out, my brows look cloudy and cartoonish. When I try to add length to them it often makes my brows look silly or just my face silly in general. Elke in our Q&A told me how I could go about things differently to achieve a better look and what I was doing wrong. And although her advice is spot on, I felt that the Brow Fixx actually did the exact trick I was looking for! The Brow Fixx can be used after applying  brow color to the brows for a finishing touch or it can be used alone. I love using it alone. The product is not intense, it goes easy and it takes 2 seconds to achieve the look that I've been searching for! It also grooms the eyebrow hairs into a proper shape and if you wanted to you could use the product on your lashes. I am really enjoying this product, check out my actual eyebrow to the right!


The second product I tried was Elke's Hi-Light Brow Shadow in Cyber Glow, which is a sparkle yellow gold. By using this as a brow highlight "your eyebrows look sharper, more define, and it brings attention to your eyebrows" (thebrowcollection.com). This product is supposed to "work great to mask growing in brows until that next appointment by creating a shimmer glow to distract from unruly hairs by bouncing light away from brow hairs." I was really skeptical about that, but I've been using the product for a little over a week and I must say that is actually does do what it says its going to do! You can use this as all over eye shadow,  face/body highlighter, or just as a brow highlighter. I really like how it works well with my many many shadow combinations (haha) and I really do feel it finishes my look.  You can click here to read more about the product and even add it to your collection! Free shipping on all orders over $50!

For more info about Elke: http://elkevonfreudenberg.com/store/index.php?main_page=page&id=35
For more info about The Brow Collection: http://elkevonfreudenberg.com/store/

Follow me on twitter @makeup_chic

Don't forget to watch my review video and others like it at http://www.youtube.com/leira821

Thanks!
xo!
A

OXY Clinical Review & Contest!

Hi All,

A few weeks ago I was tweeting back and forth with OXY Clinical. You know who I'm talking about! OXY has been one of the leaders in acne care and prevention for the last 30 years! They asked if I would like to review their Acne Solution's Pack and I agreed.

The pack contains three different products: The Advanced Face Wash, The Clearing Treatment, and The Hydrating Therapy. I used the products from the moment that I received in the mail and I have nothing but good things to say.

I used Advanced Face Wash in the morning and in the evening. I felt the wash was gentle, which that's very important because I have extremely sensitive skin. It also left my skin feeling very clean, definitely not tight and dry like some acne washes can do. If you check out OXY online (links below) they have some amazing facts about their products. For example the Advanced Face Wash leaves "25 times more acne medication on the skin after rinsing." So even after you rinse the wash is still working!

You can use The Clearing Treatment as needed to fight problem areas. Just apply a thin layer of the product to the infected area and watch the results! According to their website the Clearing Treatment "eliminates 99% of acne bacteria in 8 hours!" Reading information like that really makes me feel like what I'm doing is going to make a difference on my skin. Again, like the wash, the product was gentle and you can go a head and use it everyday as needed! It also doesn't leave any type of white residue on the skin.

The Hydrating Therapy was probably my favorite component of this three step system. This product replenishes acne prone skin and controls oils all without clogging your pores! My skin felt so revitalized after I used this.

This three step program made me feel like I was getting a facial every single day. Every time I use the products my skin feels clean, refreshed, hydrated, and looks fabulous! It even reduces the redness in my face as well as reducing the appearance of "tired eyes." And the best part about OXY is that you can buy their products at your local drugstore, no doctors appointment or prescription required. You can start using OXY Clinical Today!

And more fabulous news these three products could be yours to try for free! Check out my video talking about the review and enter into my OXY Clinical contest!

OXY Online: http://www.oxyskincare.com/
Learn About OXY Products: http://www.oxyskincare.com/our-products
Coupons and where you can find OXY in stores: http://www.oxyskincare.com/oxy-shop

Lots of new videos up, so please check them out! :)

Don't forget to follow me on twitter @makeup_chic!

xo!
A

August Favs & Raves

Hi All -

Crazy things have been a brewin' in makeup_chic land and, when/if the chance arises, I can't wait to tell you everything! I have a lot of videos that I must must must film, edit, and upload this week - I just hope I can do it before I go away AGAIN this weekend. Oh man, but I'm not complaining - Jersey Shore here I come! I've finally figured out how to over pack my makeup without losing my mind haha - you can check out that video here.

So let's get into the Favs & Raves:


1. Face: Sonia Kashuk Hidden Agenda Concealer Set $9.99 from Target or Amazon.com

Sonia Kashuk is a world renowned makeup artist and her line is not only successful, but raved about! I picked up this palette from Target about a week ago and since then I've been absolutely loving it. I was looking for a little bit of range, in terms of concealers, for the summer months. You get a little color, you lose a little color, and you may need to change your face routine numerous times between May and October. This palette comes with two concealer shades, one neutralizer, and one translucent powder. The product is very creamy, but not sticky. It glides on exceptionally well and it's extremely easy to use. I start with the neutralizer. You definitely don't need a lot of product to see the transformation on your skin. Once it has set for a good 20-30 seconds I add a touch of the medium shade, with my fingers, and literally watch my blemishes disappear! Then using the lightest shade and the medium shade (my skin is a bit tan right now) I pat the product underneath my eyes. I add the translucent powder over top of all areas I used the product to set it to for the day. I've always really liked Sonia Kashuk as both a brand and a makeup artist and I'm thrilled with this product!

2. Eyes: Maybelline Line Stiletto Ultimate Precision Liquid Eyeliner $3.99 give or take at most drugstores. You can always find coupons online though.

There's no secret that I've been in love with the Maybelline Stiletto mascaras since their debut. I've used them in so many videos, you're probably sick of reading about it! On my way to get my third tube, I love this stuff and buy a new one about every two-three months depending on the use, I noticed that you could buy the Maybelline mascara with the liquid eyeliner. Loving the mascara so much, I decided to try out the liquid eyeliner. I'm very picky when it comes to liquid eyeliners, if they're too runny I hate them but they're too dry I hate them! I need the exact right combination...and this eyeliner has it! The applicator, which can be half the battle, is comfortable to hold and not too small. The eyeliner goes on smooth and does not clump at a slight hand hesitation, which is perfect for me! I really love this and I'm excited to have it in my collection!

3. Lips: Lola Lipstick in Cherie Amor $7.99 from BeautyTicket.com

I've been in love with Lola products for a very long time. From the fire engineer red packaging to the consistency of their products, I've been very pleased. I recently found BeautyTicket.com, a discount site for all our favorite makeup products/lines and quickly realized this site will be exceptionally dangerous for me haha. After I found out that they sold Lola on their site, I immediately had to check out what they had. I was drawn to this lipstick first, I'm not going to lie, by the packing. The adorable "suitcase" inspired way that this lipstick is put together struck a cord with the girly-girl in me. Attached to the lid is a mirror for easy application, which is essential for any girl on the go. I chose Cherie Amor because of pink/coral color that I'm all about this summer. I've been using it since the day it came in the mail and it's fabulous. It's quite creamy and applies very quick, smooth, and easy. The color is super vibrant and the pigment is exceptionally rich. I love how this lipstick makes my lips feel hydrated and moisturized all while giving me this great color! And at a price like $7.99 how can you beat it?

4. Cheeks: MAC's Mineralize Blush Duo in shade Band of Roses, $23.00

Now I know what you're thinking, "how could you spend $23 dollars on a freaking blush!" Well it was a bit of an impulse buy I'll admit, but to my credit lots of beauty bloggers raved about this blush - so that gets me off the hook for spending so much dough, right? I just had to try it out. Band of Roses comes in two tones, a vibrant plum and mauve-ish pink color. The pigment is ridiculously incredible and you only need a bit of the product to really make your cheeks warm up. I also really like how well it lasts, it definitely does not slide off your cheeks after 15minutes. I know that $23 is kind of ridiculous for a blush, but for me it has been worth it. For the past two weeks it has been my go-to blush. I love how the pigment radiates on my cheeks with only a little bit of product. Something well worth trying out next time you're at the MAC counter or store!

5. Cleanser/Makeup Remover: Neutrogena Ultra Soft Eye Makeup Remover Pads, $7.00 give or take at most drug stores and Amazon.com.

These are great for after you've washed your face, but there's a little mascara or eyeliner left on your eyes. They're a relatively small size, so you don't feel like you're wasting product. They're also pre-moistened with the product and to me that's fabulous! Gone are the days of using only the corner of an entire pre-moistened makeup remover towelette or spilling product onto a cotton round! These are great for travel or just to keep in your medicine cabinet. They work exceptionally well without drying out the skin around your eye or being too harsh. I'm definitely loving this product!

So that's it! I hope you check out my favorites for this month! Also there a few new videos up that I would love for you to check out!

Always in Search of the Perfect Liquid Foundation

Foundations are like significant others. You need them to be reliable, complimentary, and by your side at 3am after a night of a little too much "TGIF" celebration. They need to be your PIC (partner-in-crime).

I've been searching for the perfect foundation since I was 13 and it's been a bit of a challenge ever since. There's so much that goes into finding the right one. Do you prefer liquid or dry? Light of full coverage? Perhaps a tinted moisturizer is up to your ally? It's a difficult process and one that often, if done incorrectly, can lead to a very nasty break-out and a multitude of other equally horrifying things.

Throughout my trial and error I've found six that I absolutely adore:

1. Tarte's Peaches & Cream Oil-Free Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation SPF 20 $35.00

Buying this was a fluke, but I'm so happy that I went out on a limb and tried this foundation. This full coverage foundation goes on smooth and beautifully, but is extremely quick drying. It doesn't leave your face looking sweaty like some liquid foundations can do. It covers nicely and definitely lasts all day. I simply apply with a foundation brush. I really like Tarte because of what kind of brand they are. According to their website "these are natural cosmetics full of skinvigorating™ ingredients including our proprietary t5 super fruit complex™ (a blend of the five most active, free-radical fighting super fruits), vitamins, minerals and natural fruit and plant extracts. But it’s not just about what’s in our healthy formulas; it’s what’s not in them that really sets us apart! Over 98% of our products are formulated without parabens, phthalates, sulfates and synthetic fragrances, just to name a few." My skin does not break out with any of Tarte's products and I'm in love with this full coverage. Sometimes a gal just needs it, right?

2. Revlon's PhotoReady Foundation Around $11.99

This drug store brand foundation goes on light and smooth. It is oil free, fragrance free, and in an SPF of 20. According to Revlon.com "this foundation creates a the look of poreless, airbrushed skin in any light. Photochromatic pigments bend and reflect light to erase every flaw. Complete, yet undetectable coverage. Soft, luminous finish." Do you recall how sometimes you can do your make up and look flawless, but then when a photo is taken of you you seem ghostly pale in comparison to the rest of your skin? This formula completely eliminates that hazard. Also, it comes in a wide variety of shades to find the perfect one for you!

3. Lorac's Oil-Free Foundation Regular price $30.00 on sale for $7.99

According to their website "it’s the simplicity of this oil, fragrance and silicone free formula that makes it so unique. This light, gentle makeup gives you a natural, healthy look and feel - ideal for sensitive skin." I have a feeling that they're probably coming out with something new and that's why it's at such a discounted price. But I really do like it! It's weightless and free feeling. It doesn't leave you feeling sticky or the feeling that you're wearing a lot of make up. And at the price it is now, how could you not try it out? Lorac is an exceptional brand for sensitive skin, so I definitely recommend it if that's you.

4. Laura Mercier's Oil-Free Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 $42.00

This tinted moisturized is a little more expensive than what I'd nor

mally pay, but it "is such a sheer, lightweight, buildable foundation that can be worn by all skin types but especially those with acne prone, sensitive or oily skin." That's me! It goes on very light, which is perfect for a day out by the beach or just a comfortable Sunday. It was voted In Style Best Beauty Buy of April 2008 and it lives up to the award. I really like even putting this tinted moisturizer on before my regular foundation as a moisturizing primer. I have never broken out from using this product and it's a great summer buy! Definitely worth the investment!

5. MAC's Face & Body Foundation $32.00

This is the newest foundation to the bunch and I have lots to say abou

t it. First the bottle is 120ML and that's huge! Although the consistency of the product is a little thinner than I normally enjoy, it goes on really smooth and the coverage is not as light as you'd think. According to their website this "water-based, water-resistant foundation that provides long-lasting, natural coverage for face and/or body. Ideal for all skin types. Face and Body Foundation provides sheer, natural looking coverage in an easy to blend, water-resistant formula. The long-lasting formula is available in a wide range of colors and contains several emollients to help moisturize and condition the skin. It delivers professional looking results that meet the exacting standards of beauty photography and is ideal for perfecting the face and body." To finish out the summer I'm very excited about this product. I think that it does what it say it's going to do. It goes on a little wetter than perhaps one may like, but the results are fabulous. You have to wait a

moment or two for the product to dry completely, but once it does you have a radiant summer glow. I really like this foundation for day-time, however it does translate well into the evening. MAC has not been known for foundation that people rave about, but this one certainly shines.

6. Clarin's Truly Matte Foundation in SPF 15 $38.00

Two summers ago stress had taken over my life and my face! I was broken out all along my t-zone and my jawline. I hadnever broken out like that before and I was miserable. I headed over to Macy's department store in search of a foundation that would help me! I always valued Clarins as a great brand for my skin care, so I had hoped that their make up would help me as well. After consulting with the sales woman I chose the Truly Matte Foundation. According to Clarins.com "this non-oily foundation quite simply delivers all: coverage

without thickness, radiance without shine, a fresh, natural look at anytime and protection combined with total comfort. Superb make-up, a flawless complexion and skin that looks more beautiful every day." Along with an intense skincare regime this foundation helped to clear up my complexion. I always keep a bottle on hand and it has never let me down. I recommend this product to women who have a bit of an oi

ly complexion and a stressful day-to-day life. It's weightless, gentle, and you only need a drop. It does last a good bit of time and it's worth the investment.

Let me know what you think by tweeting me @makeup_chic!

Quick In and Out Post

Thanks to Laura, lollipop26 on YouTube and her blog, I've decided to do a little In & Out Post.


-IN-

1. YSL Lipstick in summer shades. It's ridiculous how beautiful and vibrant they are. I stand in Sephora and gaze at their beauty. I only have one, because I cannot warrant spending that kind of money on a lipstick (well I probably could, but then I couldn't bring it home without some disappointing glares lol). I just adore it though. It's beautiful and lives in my refrigerator -- ha -- why in my refrigerator you might ask, well to keep it cold - duh! I'm afraid it's going to melt in my non air conditioned apartment during the day and I would just die...as Zoe says... JUST DIE! (rachel zoe, I'm referencing, please don't hate me! Ok you can a little bit...it's bananas!)

2. BeautyTicket.com is my latest find and I am totally taken with it. Up to 75% on big name brand make up and hair products! It's ridiculous not to absolutely freaking love that site!

3. A sun kissed tan -- faux or not. With a little color you need less make up, which means it takes less time to get ready in morning, which means less money you need to spend on make up! Well one should hope, but we all know that I can't not spend money on make up (reference the above "in"). However, a beautiful glow adds something to your look that you don't have in the winter months. You look more fresh, more alive, and it changes your entire face. I really love it! I've been basing a lot my tutorials on YouTube off the fact that I'm rockin' a killer tan!

-OUT-

1. Sweating. I love the Summer, but man o man I could use a break from the heat. I heard that New York City almost beat Florida with the record highs for this Summer! That is both absolutely crazy and obnoxious! I love the Summer, but not the sweaty dew everywhere haha!



2. Gas prices! I feel like all I ever do is fill up my gas tank and all I'm doing is mostly driving to and from work. My money goes to make up and gasoline... a little ridiculous! I also hate when I'm too lazy to fill up my tank before I go home after work and then forget in the morning to leave a little early to go get gas -- next thing you know I'm on the parkway and the orange light is staring at me - not fun!




3. Bad movies! I feel like recently the box office have been full of them! That Killers movie with Ashton Kutcher, unfortunately Sex and the City 2, and so many more. I heard Inception was really good, so I'm going to have to check that out. However, I'm kind of over that Ellen Page "Juno" girl. I feel like her and Michael Cera pretty much play the same character in every movie - am I right? Or am I right?

Until next time!
xox A

Lash Royalty!

Hi Everyone!

I hope you loved my Q&A with Elke, she's more than fabulous! Today I want to share with another great find. About 2 months ago I joined the Twitter (click here to read my tweets) community and started tweeting like mad!

Soon I began tweeting with a company called Lash Royalty.
Lash Royalty is a beauty company featuring, what else, LASHES! According to their site Lash Royalty "has catered to high-end clientele all over Asia, and is currently stirring up headlines here in the the US. The buzz is quickly spreading around that Lash Royalty is the beauty "industry standard". Our celebrity tested and approved lashes, are exclusively designed to blend in with natural lashes, to give eyes that extra flirty and sultry effect. Say goodbye to spidery looking and unflattering lashes! After years of shopping, surveying, and researching, we’ve combined dozens of elements to create the “Perfect Lash” collection."

Their website is super cute and the "Perfect Lash" collection hosts a wide range of different lash styles and types that cater to all different types of girls! After tweeting back and forth for a bit they offered to send me a care package to try out and share with all of you. In this care package they sent me two different lash pairs from the collection. Click here and watch my review video as well as enter the contest!

In short (or in full, rather -- haha little lash joke), their lashes are easy to put on, natural looking, and very comfortable. For a night out look, a day time adventure, or just a little something to add to your make up routine they are an amazing product. I hope you do go on to their website and look around. They have so much information on there. Lash Royalty has been featured in a large variety of mainstream publications, so there's a good chance you've already heard about them!

To much success LR! <3 xo!