Saturday, May 29, 2010

What's Up for Fall Makeup



Wearing Fall’s Orange Color Palette: Q & A with Makeup Artist Marissa Nemes

With naturally undone looks and an orange color palette ruling the 2010 runways, we’re seeing a departure from the red lips and smoky eye looks of past seasons. We asked Marissa Nemes, a Miami-based makeup artist, who’s worked on films, television and editorial, to give us the lowdown on the Fall 2010 face:

What are key makeup looks for Fall 2010?
The Fall 2010 makeup look is inspired by many different women morphed into one; Romantic meets Glamorous meets Edgy. It’s a clean, confident look using vibrant orange hues, created by balancing a fierce warm color with a softer cool tone on a nude and undone natural face.

Oranges, rusts and peaches were prevalent on runways from the Fall 2010 shows. Will we see a lot more of these colors, and how are they wearable for the average woman?
Yes, we will be seeing pops of bold oranges, soft rusts and healthy peaches continue to grow in our everyday makeup wardrobes. These shades give off a beautiful warm glow which our skin craves. It is wearable for the average women. To pull it off, leave everything clean and focus on a certain area of your face. If the focus is the eyes, here’s how to work the look: rust colored, romantic eyes, matte skin, peachy pink on the cheeks, and a sheer nude lip.

Are finishes and looks leaning towards matte instead of shiny? Why? Any special techniques or considerations when applying a matte look?
A matte glow is what I am leaning towards for fall. No one wants to look shiny. This undone look shows off the skin’s natural glow and looks modern and clean. You can create the effect by blending in a translucent powder all over, and topping it with a tiny bit of illuminator above the cheekbones and at the bridge of your nose. If you prefer more coverage, a sheer veil of a powder foundation will do the trick.

It’s easy to think that natural, no-fuss makeup is effortless, when really it’s not as easy to pull off as it looks. What are some tricks and tips you should consider for a naturally-undone looking face?
A healthy diet, sleep and a good night time moisturizer is key to the beginning of a naturally-undone looking face. Once you’ve mastered brighter skin from your lifestyle choices (or not), here are some tips for creating an effortless look with makeup. First, apply a tinted moisturizer with SPF. Once that settles in, apply and blend in your concealer under the eyes and in any areas which need attention. Secondly, sweep over a velvety powder foundation with SPF, topped with a little bronzer where the sun hits your face. Next, blend a creamy, flesh-toned blush on the apples of your cheeks. Since cream eyeshadows are my favorite for this look, apply one in a healthy color such as sheer pink or peach, blending it all the way from your lash line to your brow bone. Then curl your lashes and apply your mascara. To finish off this look, dab on NARS Cosmetics new Pure Sheer SPF lip treatment on your lips. Two sprays of La Mer’s “The Mist” on your face, and you’re officially naturally undone.

It seems that if you want to achieve a very natural look, you should use mineral makeup. It’s rare these days to find a cosmetic line that doesn’t have one or many mineral-based products. How do these formulas differ from others and what should you consider when choosing mineral makeup?
When I was introduced to mineral makeup a few years ago, I knew it had great potential. The industry pleasantly surprised me and I am thrilled to see the tremendous growth of organic cosmetics! Mineral makeup is made with organic and all natural ingredients, versus traditional makeup which is made with conventional ingredients. Mineral makeup is talc-free, oil-free and chemical-free and excellent for normal to oily prone skin. As individuals transition into a healthier lifestyle change, they may want to consider changing up their makeup as well and “going green” with products. While considering mineral makeup, look for powders with SPF and know that mineral makeup is easy to blend and build with a powder brush. At times, mineral makeup may appear darker in the case. Before you purchase it, try the product on your hand or on the inside of your arm to make sure the color blends well into your skin. It is not only good for your skin but also good for the environment!

Marissa Nemes: Makeup Artist

Marissa Nemes' love of beauty began when she was a young girl. Her chic grandmother Zelda, a fashion designer from Poland, played a memorable role in Marissa's early childhood. Zelda's motto "if you look good you'll feel good" has stayed with Marissa since day one. Always thinking of Zelda's fashion forward beauty and style, Marissa vividly remembers her grandmother's palette of colorful eyeshadows, lipsticks and baby blonde hair.

Marissa knew she was destined to be an artist at a very early age when color naturally motivated her on a daily basis. Marissa started to paint abstract canvasses, snap photos from around the world and suggest colors and makeup techniques to her mother, sisters and clients. While Marissa's impressive background includes both photography and fashion degrees, she felt most fulfilled as a makeup artist.

Best known for her iconic, clean and classic style, Marissa has had involvement in aesthetic styling for feature films such as The Mummy III and The Aviator, branching out to TV shows such as MTV's "My Super Sweet 16." Marissa has built an outstanding reputation through word of mouth for her excellent work ethic and editorial coverage in publications such as French Vogue, Cosmopolitan and Seventeen Magazine.

Marissa is consistently inspired by vintage glamour, nature's beauty as well as man's brilliant architecture that is evident in major cities throughout the world. Marissa's travels through Europe, Africa, The Middle East and North America, connected her global aesthetic with the ability to appreciate beauty and diverse cultures in all its forms. Having the necessary skills which the industry requires, Marissa's glowing personality and intense passion for makeup give her the perfect balance to always challenge herself and create timeless pieces of work. She continues to follow her heart and work internationally as a makeup artist.

Sunday, May 9, 2010

Chris Benz- Wool Crepe Pant



I love these. No I am in love with these. Like full on madly in love with these pants. I love how much they mix 70's funk with modern day tailoring. I love the pockets. I love the rich Midnight Navy color. Is it legal to marry a pair of pants?

CHRIS BENZ Wool Crepe Pant in Midnight Navy ($798, forwardforward.com)

Saturday, May 8, 2010

Beauty News- Target Expands Offerings With More African American Salon Products



Beauty News- Target Expands Offerings With More African America Salon Products

Target recently announced that it has expanded its hair care assortment to include popular African American salon products never before offered at mass.

Products available at select Target stores and Target.com will include favorites Miss Jessie’s, CURLS, The Jane Carter Solution, and the Target exclusive SheaMoisture.

“By offering an accessible assortment of salon-quality brands and everyday essentials, Target is the destination for guests’ beauty needs,” said Keri Jones, SVP merchandising, Target. “With the introduction of Miss Jessie’s and other new launches, our guests will now find more of the products they want, need and trust.”

I was extremely happy to hear this news. Not only is Target providing African American women more shopping options but also they choose really amazing lines to include in their expansion. Here is a little bit more about each of the collections that are part of the expansion-

*Miss Jessie’s is at the heart of the hair care passion at Target and is a hair care industry and celebrity favorite. If you have curls or waves and haven’t tried Miss Jessie’s then you need to rush to your nearest Target. Miss Jessie’s line helps to manage and enhance curly styles with products like Quick Curl, Rapid Recovery, Curly Buttercreme and the award winning Curly Pudding. Miss Jessie’s is the gold standard in curly hair care. Prices range from $14-$58.

*CURLS is the first line of premium, ethnic hair care products created specifically for multiracial women with naturally curly hair. The products were created with this curly hair type in mind and the line includes Lavish Curls Moisturizer, Goddess Curl Gel and Cream Brule. Prices range from $7.99-$10.99

*SheaMoisture is an exclusive at Target with over 14 natural an organic personal care solutions, SheaMoisture shampoos, conditioners and hair treatments will be oared, all priced at $9.99. The line includes Coconut Hibiscus Curl & Syye Mil, Raw Shea Restorative Shampoo an Africa Black Balancing Conditioner.

Celebrate Mothers Day with Korres




Its that time again. Its time to celebrate all the moms in our life's. I didn't fully understand Mothers Day until I had a child and now I think Mothers Day should be the most important day of the year. I believe you should generously shower every wonderful mom you know with love and gifts. Most moms will appreciate any gift from the heart but why not give her a gift that she loves and actually uses. Why not give her Korres Guava Showergel ($15.95, sephora.com). This divinely soothing shower gel cleans the body while fighting the signs of aging. And it has a mouthwatering tropical scent that will transport your favorite mom to a far away island. Which most moms dream of at least once a day.

Korres Guava Showergel provides a foaming, purifying cleanse that will leave skin clean but not over dry. The showergel uses age-fighting Active Aloe wheat proteins, and vitamins for long-lasting hydration and protection. And to help the biggest mother of them all, Mother Earth, Korres Showergels are 90% natural and free of PPGs, MEA, DEA, TEA, Parabens, formaldehyde donors, ethanolomine, mineral oils, silicone, and propylene glycol. A convenient, generously sized pump bottle makes for easy use and fabulous value. This a gift a mother will not only love but use.

Happy Mothers Day!!!

Its a Jungle Out There




It's a jungle out there and the only way to make it through is with this sick Stella McCartney Safari Jacket. Exquisitely tailored and trimmed this jacket gives me jungle fever. I would be so excited to own this and pair it with some rinsed boyfriend jeans cuffed right on top of some serious heels and a white razor back tank. The mix of serious structure and cut of the jacket and heels with the laid back jeans and shirt would create the perfect balance.

Compass and bug spray optional.


Stella McCartney
TAILORED SAFARI LINEN JACKET ($444.84, mytheresa.com)

Showing Some Appreciation to Your Hair




A little bit of appreciation goes along way. Let your boss know how much you appreciated her support and expertise on your latest project and you might find your name on the short list for promotions. Let a waiter know that you appreciate his professionalism and courteous manner and you might get a free dessert. Call a friend mid year and let her know how much you appreciate her friendship and your friendship might even get stronger. People enjoy being appreciated. Your hair is no different.

When is the last time you said, “Thank you hair for sticking around during all the mistakes and bad ideas I subjected you to.” Think about all the damaging processes, crazy colors and ridiculous styles you have put your hair through. And even through all of that, it stuck around (well maybe not all of it). Even when you cursed it for not “acting right today.”

Well its time to show your hair a little appreciation. I have complied a list of some amazing products that will make your hair feel and look its best. Products that will keep hair moisturized, hydrated, silky, smooth and conditioned. Appreciate your hair by showing you really do care. Maybe both of you can forget about the glued blonde weave in 95’.

Elasta QP Feels Like Silk Reflect Sheen Spray ($3.49, walgreens.com) This advanced vitamin-rich spray imparts a crystal-clear glossy brilliance without adding weight. The organic formula infuses restorative conditioners that strengthen hair from deep inside. The ultra-fine mist provides long-lasting shine that revitalizes dull, dry hair. Perfect for natural, braided, texturized and relaxed hairstyles.

Dr. Miracles Healing Leave in Treatment & Conditioner ($5.99, drmiracles.com) A wonderful Leave in Treatment & Conditioner that actually works. Works to heal hair and scalp problems. Continues the unique “feel it” formula that provides a tingling sensation supporting strong growing hair & healthy scalp. Restores, revitalizes and conditions the cuticle for smooth & super strong hair. The treatment also stimulates blood flow to the scalp. Helps to end breakage, split ends, and dry lifeless hair.

Profectiv MegaGrowth Growth Lotion ($4.99, sallysbeauty.com) A super lightweight daily moisturizer that smoothes and protects hair. Helps to guard against heat-styling damage with a non-greasy formula. Helps to replenish moisture and shine while restoring vital nutrients to the hair shaft. Infuses strength and bridges “cracks” in hair that can lead to breakage. Penetrates deeply to provide maximum benefits and results.

Oyin Handmade Honey-Hemp Conditioner ($11, oyinhandmade.com) A creamy rinse-out conditioner that penetrates deeply and leaves you with healthy hair. The silky blend is enriched with aloe vera gel, hemp oil, honey, and hydrolyzed silk protein that helps to detangle and moisturize. It rinses cleanly and also makes a nice pre-shampoo deep conditioning treatment. It can even be used as a creamy, nourishing leave-in to keep hair soft.

Anita Grant Organic Sapote & Coconut Pomade ($13.50, anitagrant.com) For sheen, hold & silkiness grab this lovely pomade. It is a nourishing, non-greasy styling pomade excellent for rejuvenating coils and waves, keeping stray hairs in place and giving hair definition. Helps to create smooth, controlled styles while promoting healthy hair growth. A great way to style your hair without damaging it.

Jane Carter Hair Nourishing Serum ($20, janecartersolution.com) If you haven’t taken care of your hair in the past then grab this serum. This 100% natural, pure essential oil with vitamins nourishes and repairs excessively damaged hair. It is designed to be used on all hair types and textures and is extremely light. Acts as a liposome to carry the vitamins into the cortex of your hair to strengthen and restore it. It’s a must for dry hair of all textures that have been damaged in the past.

Curls Quenched Curls Moisturizer ($16, target.com) Curls can be the least appreciated of all hair types. Curly hair can dehydrate easily if not given lots of attention and moisture. Give your curls what they want with this moisturizer. Formulated with certified organic ingredients, this daily curl moisturizer is a curl lifesaver. You can use this daily or alone as a 2nd day curl refresher or any other way you want. A great way to hydrate curls.

Product of the Week- Lush Almond & Coconut Smoothie Shower Soap





Smoothies are one of the best inventions ever. Right up there with the Internet, motion pictures and the wheel. Smoothies, if made right, can fill you up, quench your thirst, satisfy your sweet tooth, power you up, meet some daily nutritional needs and are totally portable. Smoothies mix the best of what you need and want while it’s served to you in a cup. Can’t get any better then that.

I think someone over at Lush shares my smoothie love and decided to use the same smoothie philosophy to create an out-of-this-world shower soap. Almond & Coconut Smoothie ($16.45, lushusa.com) is a shower soap that combines the best of what your skin needs with the luxury that you want. And, it to is served to you in a cup. The Smoothie helps you to cleanse, moisturize and nourish dry skin with almond and coconut all at once. It’s perfect for use as a shaving aid, and you won’t smell like a pina colada because it’s subtly perfumed with sexy jasmine and ylang ylang leaving you feeling clean, calm and moisturized. A great way to start the day

Rededication

I have decided to rededicate myself to my blog. I love beauty and fashion and I want to share my opinions on all things fabulous one post at a time. It might be slow going at first but I hope that with some good ol' fashioned dedication I can create a place in cyberspace that people want to check out and be part of. Currently I am still writing for Clutch but I will be posting articles both here and there so you can find wherever you want too. If you have any questions about products, reviews or ideas feel free to drop a comment.