Shades Professional Makeup

New Makeup- Coastal Scents

2012-02-09T11:24:00.000-05:00

Hi beauties!

Have you heard of Coastal Scents? Coastal Scents is a company in Naples, Florida that have specialised in bath and beauty products since 2005. Although the company is only 7 years old, their brand is already internationally well-known.

The highlights of Coastal Scents in my opinion are that:

1- they ship internationally (yay!),

2- all products are cruelty-free (no animal testing)

3- their turn around time from order to delivery is immaculate and you receive freebies/ samples on EVERY order

4- their products are super affordable

5- products are great quality

6- there's a wide variety of products

7- there are weekly specials/ new products

8- they carry color dupes for some of the more expensive brands such as MAC and MUFE

..............and the list goes on and on.

Today, I'm sharing with you, Coastal Scents's new hot pots (eye shadow singles) and brushes.

Product (what)

Hot Pots

First column- Vibrant Blue, Vibrant Plum, Vibrant Maroon

Second column- Vibrant Blue Green, Vibrant Green, Vibrant Pink

From Coastal Scents- Our Hot Pot shades are highly pigmented and magnetically attract to our empty 4 and 12 piece palettes (which can be ordered through the website). Unfortunately, these do not magnetize to MAC’s palettes.

Brushes

Coastal Scents has a wide variety of synthetic and natural hair brushes. The brushes are great quality and rarely shed if any at all.

Price (how much)

Hot Pots cost only US$1.99 each and come in 148 different shades which means that you can custom build your own palettes.

The price of the brushes vary depending on the brush of choice.

Place (where/ distribution)

Coastal Scents has their own website http://www.coastalscents.com/ . I am unaware of physical stores carrying this brand but the website allows the magic to happen within minutes.

Promotion

The company is awesome with promotions. Once you subscribe to the website, you will receive weekly updates of specials, new products, giveaways, competitions etc.

Doesn't this sound great? Well I suggest that you check it out and once you receive your products, feel free to give me some feedback.

Until next time, stay beautiful and blessed.

Disclaimer- this is not a sponsored or paid post. All information contained is my personal opinion

Better Late than Never....

2012-02-09T10:31:00.000-05:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR beauties!

Yes, it has been that long since I've blogged or spoken to you dolls. If it helps at all, just know that I was still checking out your blogs and keeping up with you. I really have no excuse for being M.I.A for so long other than the fact that sometimes life consumes us and we rarely get to enjoy the things that we are truly passionate about.

Now on to fabulous stuff.........(see my next post)

Engage!11 Cayman Islands

2011-11-10T12:23:00.004-05:00

Hi beauties:

As you all should know by now, I am from the Cayman Islands and I also reside on the largest of the three islands, Grand Cayman. The Cayman Islands are one of the Caribbean's hot spots for weddings and have been featured numerous times as a top destination for luxury weddings.

With that being said, Engaging Concepts is presenting its 3rd annual, high-impact luxury wedding businesses summit at the Ritz Carlton in the Cayman Islands, engage!11:: cayman islands which is slated to take place November 14-17, 2011.

Presenters such as Randy Fenoli from TLC's Say Yes to the Dress, Jasmine Star- International Wedding Photographer, Wedding Cake Diva Sylvia Weinstock from BRAVO's "Top Chef: Just Desserts" and many more will be in the Cayman Islands for this event.

Intimate by design, and limited in number of attendees and speakers, engage!11 :: cayman islands returns to spectacular Grand Cayman — to one of the most celebrated resorts in all the Caribbean: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman.

A gathering of the ‘best of the best’ in the wedding industry—from speakers to attendees—engage! events seek to offer something not found in other conferences. Careful attention is paid to creating an intimate atmosphere of effortless networking, allowing for an open exchange of ideas, information, inspiration and candid discussions of the issues and opportunities facing everyone in today’s luxury wedding industry. [Source: engage!11:: cayman islands]

I hope to attend this spectacular event and share pictures with you.

Curly Nikki's NY Meetup!!

2011-10-24T22:50:00.007-05:00

Hey dolls:

This past week, I was in NY on official business doing the usual 9-5 and I must say that it was a great business trip.

Whilst in NY, I met up with the lovely Franchesca Ramsey of Chescalocs on Youtube who invited me to an exclusive natural hair event in celebration of Curly Nikki's website launch 3 years ago. This event was to meet CurlyNikki in New York as she teamed up with MIZANI. I graciously accepted the invite without hesitation and was so happy that Franchesca thought to extend the invitation to me. I met amazing women with all types of natural hair textures who were surely rocking their street styles. I also networked with other natural hair enthusiasts (Francheska Medina, Cipriana) makeup artists, photographers (Terrence Jennings , Nicole Melton etc) and just beautiful women all around. It was truly a spectacular event.

CurlyNikki's meetup was held at the luxurious Carlton Hotel in New York with the after party at Pranna Resturant.

As you all know, I love my camera and never leave home without it so here are a few pictures for your viewing pleasure.

Franchesca & I :)

Fran (http://www.heyfranhey/), Cipriana & Nikisha (http://www.urbanbushbabes.com/)

Francheska & Franchesca

HeyFranHey!!

Natural beauties!!

I was blown away by this lady's beauty- can we say black barbie?! Jade Eshete

Sonya Spann and Friend

Me & Adina Juliet

Taren Guy & Fran

Check out her blog: http://fashiontonheights.blogspot.com

Simone Nair & I

Picture by Terrence Jennings

I was too busy posing here and Jade was laughing at me. LOL! (Picture by: Terrence Jennings)

This is my street style! What's yours?

For more fabulous pictures of the event, visit http://www.essence.com/. Also, here's a pic of me

Credit: Thanks to the amazing photographer Terrence Jennings for allowing me to use some of his images.

HAIR Stuff: Loc Braid Out

2011-10-17T20:02:00.004-05:00

I know it's been a little while since I have posted anything here on my blog but I wanted to share a quick hair post with my loc braid out.

HOW TO ACHIEVE THIS LOOK:

Step 1- Wash/ wet hair
Step 2- Braid or plait hair into desired size
Step 3- Allow hair to dry completely (I wore my plaits for 2 days)
Step 4- Undo braids and style as desired

It's super easy so try it and let me know how it works out for you.

Picture taken 1 week after braid out

Deep Cleaning Locs

2011-09-24T18:33:00.002-05:00

Do you wash your locs frequently in an effort to keep them clean and healthy? Well I have some bad news for you. Shampooing your locs frequently will not clean them as much as you would really like.

Because locs are formed by matted hair, it is virtually impossible for a simple weekly shampoo to thoroughly remove all the gunk, build-up from conditioners, grease, moisturizers and all the other "good" stuff we put in our hair, so it is necessary to deep clean.

How do you deep clean locs and what do you use?

Deep cleaning locs is very easy and it can be done by using inexpensive products from your kitchen cupboard such as apple cider vinegar (ACV), baking soda, salt and lime juice. By mixing these products together with warm water and pouring it or submerging your hair in the mixture, you are on your way to cleaner, healthier locs.

What is a good ACV mixture?

So far, I have found that 3/4 cups of ACV, 1/4 cup of baking soda and LOTS of warm water (about 6-8 cups) is a healthy mixture. Feel free to add more water to dilute the ACV because ACV on its own is extremely acidic. I have seen mixtures that include salt and lime juice which are included to neutralize the ACV, however, I personally have not used these ingredients.

What are the benefits of deep cleaning locs with ACV ?

The main benefits of deep cleaning locs with ACV are 1- softer locs, 2- reduction of grease and dandruff build-up, 3- shinier locs and 4- a great alternative cleanser.

BEWARE of what you will see when you pre-wash or rinse with the ACV mix.

Ewww, the water AFTER using the ACV mix in my locs. Whoever thought my hair was this yucky!?!?!?!?!

One other important point to note is rinsing. Whether you pre-wash with the ACV mix or use it after you wash your locs, rinsing the mix thoroughly is of utmost importance. Ensure that you rinse until the water runs clear. As mentioned earlier, ACV is extremely acidic and although you want to deep clean your locs, you do not want to damage your locs.

For more information including videos on the ACV mix, visit:

Chescalocs at YouTube- ACV and Baking Soda Mix

The Bronze Goddess YouTube- ACV Deep Clean

Disclaimer- This is not a paid post. All information herein is based on personal experience and opinion.

Featured as a Loc Star!!!

2011-09-08T20:15:00.001-05:00

Hi beauties:

Today I was featured on Chescaleigh's (Franchesca Ramsey) Loc Stars on YouTube. Chescaleigh is a graphic designer, vlogger, singer, entertainer and actress who lives in New York. She has a YouTube channelwhere she creates posts about pretty much anything and recently included weekly posts of "Loc Stars". Loc Stars is Chesca's way of sharing other locked beauties' creative hairstyles or their recreations of her hairstyles because she also has dreadlocks.

For a chance to be a "Loc Star", Chesca encourages anyone and everyone to post pictures of their loc creations on her FB Page and then she chooses the styles she likes the best and post them on her YouTube channel.

To view me in this week's Loc Stars, click this link: Loc Stars 9-8-2011

Mini haul & review- BH Cosmetics

2011-09-06T18:58:00.001-05:00

Hi beauties:

Recently I realized that my makeup kit had just about everything in it except some really good lip liners and I guess the reason for that is because I personally do not use them (I'm not a lipstick kinda chic) and I rarely use them on clients. However, I did realize that errrrmmmm, you gotta have um so I did a wee haul of some very inexpensive but quality (in my opinion) lip liners from BH Cosmetics and wanted to share my thoughts about these liners with you. I don't know about you but I have severely reduced purchasing makeup products or makeup unless I absolutely, definitely have to buy them/ need them. There are just way too many products, brands and options which in a way is a good thing but a bad thing if you're addicted to makeup and shopping like me.

My apologies for the amateur photography not serving justice but here are a few pics

L-R: Candy, Raspberry, Nude, Rouge, Earth, Blossom, Retro

Candy, Raspberry, Blossom

Candy:- Soft, baby pink

Raspberry:- Rich, darker pink

Blossom:- Reddish, plummy pink

Earth, Retro, Rouge, Nude

Earth:- Just as the name suggests. a very rich, reddish, brown, earthy color

Retro:- A true, classic red

Rouge:- dark, red-brown

Nude:- nude (perfect for a dark eye look)

Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post and all information herein is based on my own opinion. All products were purchased by me.

My 4 P's

PRODUCT

Lips have never looked so sweet! Enjoy the flirty, yummy, light pinks of cotton candy and bubble gum -- all spun together in one fantastically fun lip crayon (source: bhcosmetics.com)

1.1g / 0.038 oz Waterproof lip liner. The colors are rich, super pigmented and have a creamy and smooth texture that dries to a completely matte finish. I also found that these pencils were smudge proof so apply lightly and blend quickly otherwise you'll have a harsh, drawn on, unblended lip line. The staying power of these liners are unbelievable. The liners easily glides on, dries in a few seconds and is only removed by using soap or makeup remover.

PRICE

For a reasonably, quality product, these liners only cost US$2.95 as compared to other brands that are far more expensive.

PURCHASE

These waterproof lip liners are BH products and can be purchased from BH Cosmetics. BH Cosmetics also ships internationally :)

PACKAGE

BH Cosmetic waterproof liners come as a standard slim, black, pencil with a colored base to help you identify the color of the pencil with the cover is on. The liners are about 6 inches long and weighs 0.038 oz which is light as a feather.

PROS
* Easy-glide
* Creamy, smooth texture
* Super affordable
* Everlasting staying power

CONS
* Only 9 colors
* Dries too quickly
* Hard to remove

Would I purchase these products again? Yes I probably would....

Fancy Peacock

2011-08-29T23:24:00.000-05:00

Hey beauties:

Here's another quick post of my fancy peacock makeup look. The "peacock" makeup look has been created and recreated so many times. True peacock colors are blue, yellow and green but you will note from my re-creation that I have incorporated purple and fushia to give my peacock a little umph!

Random Creative Hairstyles

2011-08-29T23:07:00.001-05:00

Hey beauties:

This past week, I took a wee break and visited one of my sisters in Chicago. While I was there, I had a bit more time than usual to mess around with my hair so I created a few random, creative hairstyles.

HAIR-SPIRATION: Ledisi Young

2011-08-13T19:47:00.000-05:00

Here is a quick post on my 'daytime' version of Ledisi's signature up-do hairstyle. I say daytime for this version because if I were going out at night, I would have brought the front of my hair lower on to my forehead just as she wears it, but I did not want to go all out for the daytime.

It is actually a very easy hairstyle and I would encourage you to try this look if you want a unique, simple yet sophisticated look.

Ledisi Young- super, awesome, talented RnB/Jazz/Gospel singer

My 'daytime' version of her signature look

Frequently Asked Questions about my hair

2011-08-13T19:28:00.000-05:00

Frequently Asked Questions about my hair?

1. Is your hair real?
Yes, my hair is real- all of it.

2. How did you get it red?
I had to bleach it first and then apply the color

3. How long have you had it like that?
I started growing my locks in October 2004 so that would make it about 6yrs and a few months.

4. Will you cut it?
I don't know. If it gets to a point where it is unmanageable, I will cut it.

5. Can you wash it?
Yes, it is hair therefore it can be washed

6. How do you keep it so neat?
I am very particular about my hair and I ensure that it is taken care of.

7. How many locks do you have?
108

8. How long will you let it grow (length-wise)?
I am not sure. It all depends on how I feel at a particular point in my journey

How I do my brows!!

2011-08-04T19:45:00.000-05:00

Hi beauties:

As you all know (or should know), your brows frame your face. If you did not know this, well now you do.

Ungroomed brows in my opinion look horrible. No matter how fierce your makeup is, if your brows are unruly and out of shape, then your makeup does not look completed.

One of the most frequently asked questions that I receive other than 'is your hair real', is "who does your brows"? Well the answer to that is, "I do my brows". So today, I wanted to share a quick step-by-step pictorial of how I do my brows.

Feel free to try it and let me know how it works out. It may look like alot of steps but once you get the hang of it, it does not take long.

STEP 1- Brush/comb your brows upward with a brow brush/ comb or a clean toothbrush

STEP 2- With a brow liner, line the bottom of your brow with a color that is about 2 shades lighter than your hair (on your head) color, following your natural brow shape

STEP 3- With the same brow liner, line the top of your brow about 1/3 of the way, following your natural brow shape

STEP 4- Using a small angled brush, blend the brow liner to remove the harsh line you drew

STEP 5- Using another small angled brush, define the brow by applying concealer (about 2-3 shades lighter than your complexion) under the brow

STEP 6- Using the same angled brush used to apply the concealer, drag the concealer downward

STEP 7- Blend the concealer

STEP 8- That's it!

The brushes I use

Lala's First Makeup Giveaway

2011-08-02T12:52:00.002-05:00

Hi beauties:

Lala of Lipstick on your Pillow is hosting a makeup giveaway to celebrate exceeding 100 followers on her blogspot. Obviously I entered and I'm sharing this with you so that you can enter to win some fabulous prizes (shown below) also.

Lala is an absolutely gorgeous model who has taken the time to share her passion and creativity with the rest of the blogger family.

To enter, visit Lala's blog (link above) for information on how to enter.

Good luck!!!

The winner will be receiving a gorgeous Too Faced 'Fun in the Dark' Palette, a French Connection Polished Whipped Bodycream and a Molton Brown travel size hair conditioner.

*Smoochies*

Blogger Design?!?!?!?

2011-07-31T19:53:00.001-05:00

I'm not sure but if anyone else has been struggling with inserting pictures to blog posts, please let me know because I'm really not a big fan of the changes that Blogger has made and it's driving me bonkers.

If you have any advice on how to stop the pictures from jumping every where on the page when you're creating a new post, then PLEASE help me.

Thanks a mil!

Bridal Makeup

2011-07-31T19:40:00.000-05:00

Hi beauties:

I wanted to share photos from a wedding that took place at the gorgeous Morritt's Tortuga Club in the Cayman Islands.

The gorgeous bride is one of my staff members and I was ecstatic when she asked me to be her makeup artist (*happy dance*) and be apart of her special day.

Here are a few photos from my day.

The view from the bride's room

The dress

The awesome maid-of-honor who arranged everything

A preview

Another gorgeous bride's maid. I LOVED her hairstyle and I should've taken a picture

The lady of the day- the bride

The bride's sister (another bride's maid)

Orange Marmalade Look inspired by Tina (The Fancy Face)

2011-07-26T14:31:00.000-05:00

Hi beauties:

Today I wanted to share my version of "Orange Marmalade", a look that was done by one of my favorite fellow bloggers, Tina, The Fancy Face. I actually had the chance to meet Tina in person at The MakeUp Show NYC this past May. Tina always comes up with gorgeous combinations and she makes it look easy because she's a gorgeous girl.

I am off of work today and wanted to take advantage of the sunlight because I rarely get the chance to create my looks while the sun is out but I ensured that I caught it today.

Here is my version of Orange Marmalade

Products Used

Eyes:

Urban Decay Primer Potion (all over lide up to brow)

NYX Jumbo Pencil- Milk (all over lid up to crease)

Sugarpill Flamepoint e/s (matte orange on inner 1/3 of lid)

Sugarpill Love e/s (matte red on center of the lid)

Sugarpill Poison Plum e/s (matte purple on outer 1/3 of lid)

Lorac Serenity e/s (shimmery champagne color as highlight under brow)

Stila stay all day liquid eyeliner (black on upper lash line)

Stila kajal liner- Sapphire (lower lash line and water line)

Milani Baked e/s- Blue My Mind (lower lash line over the Sapphire liner)

Brows:

NYX Dark Brown eyeliner (outline and fill brow)

Lips:

NYX Athena l/s (matte barbie pink)

Stila lip glaze- Star Fruit (over lipstick)

Face:

Graftobian HD Creme Foundation

MAC NW43 Select Sheer Pressed Powder

Milani Baked Blush - Red Vino (cheeks)

Mini makeup haul & review

2011-07-24T22:17:00.001-05:00

Hi beauties:

Over the past week, I did a little makeup haul and wanted to share my new products with you. I've promised myself that I will no longer go on random makeup shopping sprees because I already have too much makeup stuff but I'm allowed to break my own promises right??!?

Anyway, here are my products!

All Products

Graftobian Hi-Def Glamour Creme Corrector Palette

Our Hi-Def Glamour Cremes are formulated to yield flawless High Definition results whether or not you're in front of a camera. With rich color and coverage yet satin smooth creamy consistency, our Hi-Def Glamour Cremes are a pleasure to work with. We have provided you with a very attractive package to pull out of your kit on the set to correct for blemishes or for discoloration neutralization purposes.

My view:- These cremes are super rich and gives great coverage. My face is multi-toned and these cremes neutralize my blemishes, discoloration and acne scars. The color correctors prepare my face for my foundation.

This 5-color palette comes with a Soft Orange Neutral which neutralizes blue in the skin (really pale persons), Yellow Hi-Lite which cancels deep red and purple (bruises), Muted Green which removes redness (pimples, sunburn), Pink Hi-Lite wich counteracts grey or brown (under eye circles) and an Extra Hi-Lite which can be used as a light highlighter.

Price: $8

Where: Graftobian Website and Camera Ready Cosmetics

Graftobian HD Glamour Creme Super Palette- Warm

This palette comes with 18 richly, pigmented, smooth, creme foundations and gives immaculate coverage.

Palettes are a great way to conveniently mobilize colors whether lipcolors, eyeshadows, blushes, face powders or foundations.

This palette also comes in Cool tones, Neutral tones and Warm tones (picture shown above) and are great for flash photography.

Note- Because these are creme colors, I would recommend storing this palette in a cool, dry area. Storing them in a warm or hot place will cause the cremes to melt.

Price: US$69.99

Where: Graftobian Website and Camera Ready Cosmetics

Milani Baked Eyeshadow- Blue My Mind

This is an absolutely GORGEOUS metallic, rich, royal blue color and it's super pigmented

Price: $7.49 - I think I paid around CI$8 (US$10)
Where: This eyeshadow can be purchased on Milani's website but I purchased it at one of the local supermarkets in the beauty aisle.

When I saw this blush, I insteantly fell in love with it. I automaticaly thought of all the brides I could use this blush on to give them a subtle dewy look.

The baked blush is a luxurious powder blush that features a mélange infusion of colors baked on Italian terracotta tiles. Easy to use, sensorial in texture, the nuances of color become extraordinarily luminous. Silky smooth application leaves your face looking healthy and radiant all day.

This baked blush givse a sun-kissed look and is super smooth and pigmented.

Price: $7.99- I think I paid CI$9 (US$11.25)
Where: Milani website. I bought this blush at a local supermarket

Stila Smudge Pot- Black

The verdict is in, and smudge pots take the prize for sexy eyes. The innovative and spunky alternative to traditional powder and liquid formulas, this clever little gel has an inky intensity that leaves powder shadows in the dust. The glass jar and airtight lid keeps the gel soft and pliable.

Price: US$20- I paid CI$24 (US$30)

Where: Stila Cosmetics can be purchased from Sephora or the Stila Cosmetics website . I purchased mine from a local store that sells Stila Cosmetics.

Stila Kajal Liner- Sapphire

These richly hued pencils are formulated to mimic the ultra-soft texture of the Indian eye darkener of the same name. The luscious formula glides on perfectly, without dragging across the fragile skin of the eye area. Delivers bold, clear, true color that easily blends and beautifies.

Price: US$18 (CI$22)
Where: Sephora or Stila Cosmetics website

Camera Ready Cosmetics New Products and SALE!!

2011-07-14T14:27:00.001-05:00

Hi beauties:

Today I wanted to share a quick blog post about the HUGE sale that's happening at Camera Ready Cosmetics (CRC). For those of you who are unaware of Camera Ready Cosmetics, you're really missing out. Camera Ready Cosmetics is your one stop shop for all those fabulous makeup brands that are not sold everywhere or in one particular store. Brands such as Ben Nye, Mehron, Graftobian, RCMA, Eve Pearl, Kryolan, Kett, Model In A Bottle and so much more.

CRC has recently added alot of new products to their online store with lots of perks such as international shipping and 10% off everything listed in the "New Category" for the rest of July. The sale ends on August 1 so don't miss out on this opportunity to grab your products while supplies last.

Sooooooo what are you waiting for??? Go checkout the sale today! Camera Ready Cosmetics Website

Bali Mango Look

2011-07-09T20:53:00.000-05:00

Hi beauties:

Recently I've been trying to find inspiration for my looks. Usually I'd kinda just throw some colors together hoping to make something out of them but today I reached for one of my body sprays from Bath & Body Works called Bali Mango and the colors on the label gave me the inspiration for this look. I would have prefered to create the look and take the pictures whule the sun was still up but I was busy thoughout theday.

Anyway, I'm not sure where you are but where I am from, it's mango season- YUM!!!!! Who doesn't love mangoes?

In the latter part of last year, Bath and Body Works addeed a new fragrance to their Signature Collection called Bali Mango. Bali Mango is an exotic getaway of juicy mango, sugar cane, pink passion flower and luscious nectarine sqooshed all together in one delicious blend. The lotions and body mists are so fragrant and yummy. I love sweet, fruity smells.

What's better than fresh mangoes in the summer???

Anyway, here is the Bali Mango look with the mango/summer sunset colors and a hint of turquoise.

Enjoy!!

Bubble Gumdrop Look

2011-07-08T22:06:00.000-05:00

Hi beauties:

This is my second LOTD back to back and I'm kinda proud of myself ;). This actually looked alot better in reality but by the time I completed the look, the sunlight was long gone and I have to use the flash. With the flash on the camera, I lost a few colors. Anyway, this is called Bubble Gumdrop and I hope you like it!

By the way, TGIF!!! What are your weekend plans?

Naturally Minted

2011-07-07T21:57:00.001-05:00

Phew!! FINALLY............a Look of the Day!! It's been a long time coming.

Here's a quick look that I did today. It's a mix of browns with a pop of color along the lower lash line and inner eye for a little umph. I really enjoyed doing this look after not playing with my makeup for a while.

Hope you enjoy it too!

My favorite "go-to" makeup products- FACE

2011-07-06T22:06:00.001-05:00

Hey beauties:

Since I haven't been doing any LOTDs lately, I'm constantly trying to find ways of staying in touch with you so today, I thought I'd share some of my favorite "go-to" makeup products.

I'm going to do this post in a 3-part series because doing one post will be too long and you'll be reading forever.

I really miss doing my LOTD but the weather has been scorching lately and by the time I complete my look, it's melting off.

So let's start with my face products.

MAC Matte

With the combination of crazy hot, all year round weather and combination skin, this product is a life saver for me.

The MAC Matte is a mattifying creme that acts like a powder. It can be worn alone or applied before your foundation adding a sheer, no-shine layer on your skin. It completely mattes out the skin and reduces the level of oilyness throughout the day. It can also be used as a foundation primer.

It has no smell and feels great on the skin.

MAC Matte can be purchased at any MAC store, MAC counter or on their website and costs US$18 for 22ml.

NARS Sheer Matte Foundation- Macao (Med/Dark 4)

My skin shade is medium-to-dark with a yellow undertone. I definitely do not have a red undertone so when I found this foundation in London in 2010, I was doing cartwheels. I have been through sooooo many foundations from different brands and I think that I have finally found one that matches my skin perfectly. I used to use MAC NC50 in Studio Tech but found that it was too heavy for me. I pretty much looked like I applied my makeup with a putty knife and I did not like that look at all.

NARS Sheer Matte Foundation is a soft matte-finish foundation with buildable coverage which means that you can wear it as light or as heavy as you want. At the end of the day, it still gives beautiful coverage. The best thing about this foundation for me is that is helps to control shine throughout the day.

This foundation can be found at Sephora, NARS Online, any NARS store or any department store that sells NARS Cosmetics and costs US$42. In the Cayman Islands it costs US$38 for 1 fl. oz.

NARS Blush- Gilda

I am not a big fan of shimmery, sparkley, glittery face makeup. For my eyes, it's ok depending on the occasion and look that I am trying to achieve but for my blush, I prefer a matte or satin finish.

I've seen several reviews about NARS Orgasm blush but when I swatched it, it was waaayyy too shimmery/sparkley for me so I found Gilda and instantly gravitated to it. If I ever wanted to amp up this blush, I could also brush a little bronzer over it and I'd have Orgasm ;)

Gilda is a beautiful, matte coral color and is super pigmented. Just one sweep of a brush grabs the color.

This blush can also be found at Sephora, NARS Online or at any department store that sells NARS Cosmetics.

The cost of this blush is US$27 for .16 oz

Urban Decay De-Slick Mattifying Powder

Now this powder has got to be the mother of all mattifying powder. In my opinion, it is the best one yet. If you know of any mattifying powders that work really well, let me know but so far, this is the best one.

Urban Decay De-Slick Mattifying Powder is a shine-stopping pressed powder that blots oil and keeps shine at bay. The lavender shade applies invisibly and works on every skintone. (Source:Urban Decay- Sephora)

In my opinion, I have overactive sebaceous (sebum/oil) glands so this mattifying powder works wonders for me. De-Slick can be worn alone (if you have great skin) or on your foundation like a regular powder.

This powder can be found at Sephora, Urban Decay online or any store that sells Urban Decay cosmetics. The cost is US$32 (roughly the same as a normal face powder) for 0.40 oz.

What are some of your favorite "go-to" makeup products?

Disclosure- This post has not been sponsored and information therein is based solely on my opinion.

Let's Talk!!

2011-07-04T02:20:00.001-05:00

Shades Pro Makeup is now on Twitter. Follow me and let's chat.

Shades Pro Makeup on Twitter

Camera Ready Cosmetics

2011-07-03T20:15:00.000-05:00

Hey beauties:

Do you know about Camera Ready Cosmetics (CRC)?

Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. CRC is your one-stop-shop for a range of professional makeup products and accessories (brushes, kits, cases, airbrush, etc.) from over 21 of the top names in the industry. Brands such as Mehron, Sugar Pill Cosmetics, Yaby Cosmetics, Kryolan, Face Atelier, Illuminare, Z-Palette and much, much more.

The best things about CRC is that they only sell cruelty-free products (YAY!!) and ship worldwide!! Yes they do and their shipping rates are comparable to those of other makeup companies and distributors. The customer service is awesome and the staff is very helpful.

Check out Camera Ready Cosmetics and HAPPY SHOPPING!!!

Quasar Models Photoshoot

2011-06-28T20:05:00.003-05:00

Hi beauties:

I was contacted by the founder of Quasar Models (Cayman Islands) to do makeup for a photoshoot. Without hesitating, I agreed to the job until I found out that it was an early morning shoot. (EPIC FAIL). It was a 5am start. Hmmph! I instantly wanted to say no and hang up the phone but because I agreed to the shoot 2 seconds before that, I couldn't go back on my word so I left it at that......

Waking up that morning was VERY hard but at the end of it all, I was extremely happy that I agreed because it was really awesome to be amidst such great local talent. There were 8 beautiful models, 4 photographers and another talented makeup artist on board.

For more images of my work, check out Model Mayhem- Shades Pro Makeup

Here are a few pics to show you what the morning looked like.

Cassi the Founder of Quasar Models (Cayman Islands)

Behind the scenes

Bonnie B doing her thing. This little lady is so fierce behind the camera

Captivating Tori

UPDATE Pt 2- 88 Warm Palette Giveaway- CLOSED

2011-06-22T09:47:00.002-05:00

Hi beauties:

I've been receiving feedback that persons are unable to "Like" my FB Fan Page because the link isn't working. A lot of you have been joining the group and not the fan page. Please ensure that you're joining the fan page and not the group. I no longer use the FB Group. I think I have fixed the link now. If you are still unable to join the fan page, there is a link on my blog to my FB fan page. Click that and see if it works. IF not, you can also go directly to FB and search for Shades Professional Makeup. IF you are directed to the group, I have posted a link to my fan page.

Ok, I've fixed it now. I promise. Sorry, I just had to reconfigure some things. Please click on the "LIKE" button on the side bar to follow me on FB.

Let me know if that works.

My apologies for the inconvenience....

High School Reunion- 20 years!!!

2011-06-20T21:59:00.001-05:00

Hi beauties:

Today I'm going to share pictures of a client who wanted "fierce" makeup for her 20th high school reunion.

When I started this look, I wasn't quite sure what I was going for but then I had an ah-ha moment and my creative juices started flowing. I LOVE when my clients say "do whatever you want Olivia".......so that's just what I did.

She was wearing a black and white, fitted, knee-length dress accessorized with a fuschia clutch and heels.

Here's her look!

I gave her a sparkley black smokey eye with hot pink on the inner most corner of each eye and added lashes. On her lips I applied a very, very light pink (which hardly shows in the pictures) and NARS Gilda blush on her cheeks.

MAKEUP GIVEAWAY!!!!- 88 Warm Palette (Coastal Scents)- CLOSED

2011-06-18T20:13:00.004-05:00

Hey beauties:

I haven't done this in a LONG time so here goes!

To officially kick off the crazy warm (more like steaming hot) weather we've been having in Grand Cayman lately, I'm going to give away a palette of super pigmented and gorgeous warm-toned eyeshadows. This palette hold 88 beautiful colors.

This palette is for everyone! A true favorite whether you're a professional or novice, this set provides matte, shimmer, smokey and neutral shadows. The huge plus about this palette set is that it has been created in a way which all skin tones will be able to apply multiple fashion looks. (Coastal Scents)

HOW TO ENTER

Of course, with every contest there are rules and this contest is no different.

- You MUST be 18 years or older to enter

- You MUST be a follower on my blog (Shades Professional Makeup Blog)

- You MUST be a fan on my FB Fan Page (FB Fan Page) NOT the group.

- You MUST leave a comment on this post (blog post) saying why you want/like this palette

***OPEN TO PARTICIPANTS IN THE CAYMAN ISLANDS ONLY***

Contest is open now until June 30, 2011 at 11:59pm. A random winner will be chosen.

GOOD LUCK!!

REVIEW!!! Dermalogica Overnight Clearing Gel

2011-06-12T17:53:00.009-05:00

Hey beauties:

Today I wanted to share one of my recently found FAVORITE skin care products with you. I especially wanted to share this with you because I have tried just about every topical acne treatment product on the market to zap my zits and couldn't find one that worked as quickly as I wanted it to. After reading several reviews about the Dermalogica Overnight Clearing Gel, I decided to try it for myself.

(Product) What is it?

Topical treatment suitable for acneic and breakout-prone skin.

Dermalogica Overnight Clearing Gel is an overnight treatment designed to help clear skin congestion and help prevent future breakouts using its active ingredient Salycic Acid. Salycic Acid is a type of acid used to treat non-inflammed acne and is found in most acne treatment products. Because Dermalogica Overnight Clearing Gel contains salycic acid, it may irritate persons with sensitive skin.

Dermalogica Overnight Clearing Gel is a part of the Medibac Clearing System and is the be all and end all of topical acne treatments. Although I have sensitive/ combination skin, so far this product has not irritated my skin and literally works overnight, reducing the appears of my acne when I have flare ups.

As the name suggests, the clearing gel is an overnight treatment. It could be applied all over the face or just on the problem areas and should be washed off in the morning.

Product Benefit

- Removes impaction plug from follicle to help prevent future breakouts and relieve congestion

- Helps regulate sebum (oils produced by the sebaceous glands) production

- May be applied all over face or areas experiencing breakouts or congestion.

Package

Dermalogica Overnight Clearing Gel comes in a 50ml hard plastic bottle with a removable screw cap.

Price

Depending on your local distributor or country, the cost of the clearing gel can range from anywhere from US$27 to GBP41 to CI$48. Although this may be considered an expensive topical acne treatment, the product is definitely worth the money because it works wonders.

Place

This product can be purchased from your local Dermalogica distributors or on Amazon.com.

Overall opinion

This product is worth the money and should be bought by every person who struggles with acne prone, problem skin.

Acne can be caused by numerous factors, however, for occasional or even frequent flare-ups, I would recommend trying this product.

Note: This post was not sponsored and was based on writer's opinion. I am not a dermatologist or a skin care specialist. This is simply based on my opinion and experience of use. Please see your skin specialist or dermatologist for serious acne problems.

What would you like to see?

2011-06-07T16:43:00.003-05:00

Hey beauties:

This is just a quick post to get some feedback from you on my blog. I've totally been neglecting my blog and I miss interacting with you all.

What would you like to see on my blog? Reviews? Tutorials? Tips and Tricks? Outfits?

Let me know......

How to market and advertise yourself as a makeup artist

2011-05-31T13:13:00.002-05:00

Hi beauties:

This post is about marketing and advertising yourself as a makeup artist.

Whether you're the new kid on the block or a veteran makeup artist, it is important that people know about you and what you do (services you offer as a makeup artist).

There are numerous ways to advertise yourself as a makeup artist. Some free ways and some not so free.

If you're completely new to the fabulous and dynamic world of makeup artistry, you will need to have pictures to show the world what you can do. Unless you're walking around with Irish lucky charms or that pot-o-gold, chances are, your first face is not going to be that of a celebrity so who do you work on? Yourself, friends and family.........initially, your friends and family are going to be some of your best clients. Use them to practice on.

Outside of friends and family, you will need to find other (preferably inexpensive/ free) ways of advertising yourself.

SOCIAL NETWORKS

For new comers, it is probably best to take baby steps and utilize free mediums such as social networks (Facebook, Twitter, Blogs, MySpace, YouTube etc). Social networks have blown up over the last few years and everyone uses them. By creating fan pages and blogs, you are opening up yourself to a wealth of knowledge from other industry professionals and even some amateurs who you can also learn from. You are also reaching out to international arena. It is a very inexpensive way of advertising yourself. As a matter of fact, it's all FREE!!!

For seasoned artists, social networks are also useful. If celebrities can have Facebook and MySpace pages, then why can't you?

Outside of these social networks are also blogs and forums specifically for artists whether fashion design, photography or makeup.

Model Mayhem is the number 1 portfolio website for professional models and photographers. It is a network for professional and amateur models, photographers, makeup artists and stylist to meet and exchange talents. It is one of the most popular networking sites for people in the industry. Again, the best part is that it is FREE!

WORD OF MOUTH

Word of mouth can either be a good thing or bad thing. It can either lift you up or tear you down. Although your makeup style may differ from someone else's, if your clients (family, friends) are pleased (or displeased) with your art, they will be sure to tell others and that news, whether good or bad will spread. Trial, error, research and practice are KING in this game. Most of all, remember to be true to you and your own creativity.

NETWORKING WITH OTHERS

Networking with other makeup artists can also assist you in marketing and advertising yourself as a makeup artist. Bear in mind that some artists will be reluctant in assisting while others will be very helpful.

Attending events such as trade shows- makeup shows, hair and beauty shows will allow you to network with people in your field. You can exchange ideas, learn new tricks of the trade and buy products. I recently attend the Makeup Show in New York and while I didn't necessarily learn any new tricks and tips, it was great to meet some well-known makeup artists and bloggers.

LOCAL CONTACTS

Event planners, especially wedding planners, are always seeking makeup artists (and even better if you can style hair as well) to assist with completing their wedding plans. Contacting wedding planners and photo studios in your area about your services is another free way of advertising yourself. Be sure to leave business cards with them as well.

BUSINESS CARDS

Business cards can be expensive but they can also cost next to nothing (if printed at home). They are necessary and can non-verbally speak a thousand words. Remember that in the absence of your presence, your business cards will speak for you so your name and title (Makeup Artist) should be clearly stated on the card along with contact details in the event someone needs to contact you. The design of your card is a personal thing but because you are in a professional line of business, you want to ensure that your card is a true reflection of you and your business. If you have a blog, page or another medium which shows your work, then include this information on your business card also.

PERSONAL WEBSITE

Personal websites can be costly. If you know someone who can create one for you at no charge, then great but if you don't, just bear in mind that if you are a newcomer to the industry, it is not necessary that you have a personal website. For more experienced professionals in the business, having a personal site would be great.

At the end of the day, if you do not make the effort to advertise yourself, you may become disappointed and discouraged with the industry. As a matter of fact, this goes for any line of business. If no one knows that you exist then what is the point of it all?

The Makeup Show NY 2011- Experience & Haul

2011-05-21T11:31:00.015-05:00

Hi Beauties:

I decided to take a trip to New York (for the first time) to attend THE MAKEUP SHOW- NYC. It was a 4hr direct flight from Grand Cayman but I made it there (and back).

Yes, as much of a world traveler as I am, I have never been to the Big Apple. Why is it called the Big Apple anyway? I need to Google that.

ABOUT THE SHOW

The Makeup Show is a PRO-ONLY trade even open to those individuals and companies involved in the makeup artist industry. Makeup artists, retail artists, aestheticians, cosmotologists, hair stylists, fashion stylists, buyers, agents and photographers.

The show was a 2-day event held at the Metropolitan Pavilion, NY, on Sunday, May 15 and Monday, May 16, 2011. I attended the show on Sunday. For the first time in 2011, the show had 4 floors of goodies, seminar, sponsors, schools and so much more. Imagine that! 4 HUGE floors of goodiesssss!!!!!

EXHIBITORS

The list of exhibitors at the show was endless. There were makeup companies, suppliers, industry artists, airbrush companies etc.

Exhibitors included Make Up Forever (MUFE) who had the largest crowd and longest line by far. There was NO way I was going to stand in that. It was pretty hectic at MUFE. Inglot was also pretty hectic. MAC and Crown Brushes which also had a crazy line. Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics (OCC), Stila, Alcone Company, Luminess Air, Mehron, Kryolan, Dinair Airbrush, Dermalogica, Nigel's Beauty Emporium, NARS were all there and the list goes on and on.

OVERALL EXPERIENCE & HIGHLIGHT

Overall, the show was a good experience for me. It was both tiring and exciting. It was great to be amidst persons who shared the same passion and interest. For that one day, I didn't mind being in such a crazy crowd although it was absolute mayhem being there.

The highlight was definitely seeing fellow bloggers and makeup artists like Tina (The Fancy Face), Lauren (Queen of Blending), Ren Ren (Makeup by Ren Ren) and others. I managed to squeeze a pic with Lauren & Tina but not of Ren Ren but she was pretty cool too.

My mini haul (I couldn't stand in those lines)

Part of Inglot's display

Inglot's crowd and others

Another makeup artist from Cayman

My look for the show (fairly natural and simple)....and yes, that's my hair ;)....not braids or weave. It's dreadlocks...all mine

The Makeup Show Billboard

Don't know who this lady is but I loved her flower :)

Tina, The Fancy Face and I (check her out at http://thefancyface.blogspot.com/)

Jordan Liberty (to my right) http://www.jordanliberty.com/

Lauren (Queen of Blending). I absolutely LOVED her flowers and tutu

A bridal boo boo turns into bliss........

2011-05-08T14:18:00.007-05:00

Hi beauties, I know that's it has been a while since I've blogged something and it is not that I have forgotten about you but I am actually pursuing a Master's Degree and I also switched jobs (a promotion) so needless to say, life has been mad busy. In the midst of failing horribly to find balance, I had to do bridal makeup yesterday (Saturday, May 7, 2011). Seeing that I hadn't done any work lately, I considered this an opportunity to remind myself that I needed to still find balance in my crazy life.

This bride, who is actually a second or third cousin of mine had a Moroccan themed wedding with turquoise and yellow for the wedding and burgundy and orange for the reception. It was a beautiful, scenic, quaint and simple beach wedding. Yesterday was also our annual carnival Batabanoo (Google it and check it out) so the traffic was insanely crazy. Thankfully I left home early enough to make it to the bride's location on time.

Upon arriving on location, the bride was still in the midst of having her hair done so I thought I'd help (after setting up my makeup of course). The hair went well then it was time to start makeup until..................................................................oops!!!! I left my makeup brushes at home and couldn't go back to get them. Can we say EMBARRASSED, upset and frantic?!?!?!?!?! I was flipping out but had to maintain composure and tap in to plan B quickly! I've heard many times before that your fingers are the best tools so guess what I did??? Used um!!!! Yes, I used my fingers to apply a full face of bridal makeup. There's a first time for everything right? This was a true test of my training and creativity......

By the way, ALL of the pictures were taken with my cellphone....

Bridal trial picture

Bridal trial pictures

The GORGEOUS bride

Glowing bride

Bride's dad walking her out & sister holding her train

Beautiful bride and her prince :)

View from the bride's room

GORGEOUS wedding cake in the fridge. Hahaha!

Green Mint Look

2011-02-19T17:20:00.006-05:00

Hi beauties:

You can probably tell from my blog that I haven't really been in the blogging mood lately but today I decided to do a very quick and easy look using only green. I will probably post another look using green because St. Patrick's Day (an Irish holiday) is coming up pretty soon. I believe it's March 17 or thereabouts. Anyhoo, here's my very quick and easy, LOTD using green....

Quick makeup post

2011-02-06T12:45:00.005-05:00

Hi beauties:

Yes, yes, yes, I know that I have become a complete makeup stranger but I am still here. Life just seems to get the best of you sometimes and you never really get the chance to do what you enjoy BUT, I'm glad that I captured photos of my look this past Friday night.

There was a huge, annual, luxury party on Friday night (Feb 4) and I attended. All the "big wigs" were there and I was glad to be a part of it.

Anyway, I wanted to try Nicki Minaj's makeup look in her video, Your Love and this is what I came up with. Instead of red lips (which I was not bold enough to try), I did bright pink/ fushia lips and I think it worked. Overall, I loved the look and think that I will re-create it for a blog post. How does that sound? Oh and by the way, I know that the pics aren't the greatest because they were taken with my phone

Nicki Minaj- Your Love video

HAPPY 2011!!!!

2011-01-02T19:45:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year to all my beautiful and vivacious bloggers.....thank you for your kind words, support and encouragement throughout 2010. Here's to you, a year filled with love, laughter, blessings and great health......make this year yours!

LOVE deeply. LAUGH hard. LIVE fully. FORGIVE always and DREAM Big!

From the Roots I Came....

2010-11-22T13:22:00.005-05:00

Hi beauties!! I just wanted to do a quick post on makeup that I did for a photoshoot yesterday with one of the island's well-known models. The theme was African, but more, rural, tribal Africa. I was definitely on board to do makeup for this shoot so I basically did a neutral look then "upped" it with random tribal markings.

Cassi is truly unique and has a distinct look. View the pics for yourself!!

Cayman Fashion Solstice 2010

2010-11-07T00:24:00.007-05:00

Just about every country in the world has a fashion week except for us here in the Cayman Islands but Guavaberry Marketing (Cayman) Limited, gave us what we've been longing for; a fashion weekend. Once again, I had the fabulous opportunity to work with and network with some of the most gorgeous people in the business. Living on such a tiny island definitely has its pluses and being a makeup artist is definitely one of them (wink!)

Cayman Fashioin Solstice (http://www.caymanfashionsolstice.com/) is the Caribbean's premier fashion gala event! The vision for Cayman Fashion Solstice has culminated into a four-day fashion and lifestyle evnt, which combines private soirees, fun fetes, island tours and sailing excursions.

The Solstice Fashion Gala, which remains the nexus of the Cayman Fashion Solstice event, serves as a platform for showcasing international trend-setting fashion designers and models from some of the world's top agencies including Ford, Elite, Major Models, Red, Muser, DNA, Q Models and Identities.

The evening's fashion show highlights renowned designers from New York, Los Angeles, Guyana, Trinidad and the Cayman Islands (YAY!!!!!). Headlining the international cast of modesl are Georgette (Georgie) Badiel, a former Miss Africa, Bobby Roache (YUM!!!!!), Leah-Mari Guevara, Wendell Lissimore, Kadeem Fischer etc and of course, some of the islands' GORGEOUS models.

I had the fabulous opportunity of being a makeup artist for this gala event and I met every person who was involved in this production. Imagine having to do makeup for 24 models back to back??? Needless to say, at the end of it all, I was NO USE to myself. Thankfully, I was able to catch an itsy bitsy part of the show.

Here are a few pics!

Leah-Mari Guevara & I

Sitting in traffic, heading to the show

Current Miss Cayman Islands 2010- Cristin Alexander (I look like a midget next to her :(

Celebrity makeup artist Ashunta Sheriff (left), Stef & I

Bobby Roache & I (this was the "cheating" dude in Beyonce's video Irreplaceable)

INDASHIO!!!!!!!!!! (fashion designer)

Yup, that's Indashio again....he's such a COOL cat! Meow....

Local makeup artist, Stephanie Ford-Ramoon

Former Miss Africa, Georgette "Georgie" Badiel

Victoria Secret/ Runway model, Selita Ebanks (a fellow islander)

Local model, Adrianna Christian (LOVE this girl!)

London Photoshoot

2010-10-24T22:13:00.007-05:00

For a girl from a little island (one which is non-extent to many people around the world) I must say that I have been BLESSED to be able to meet and work with so many beautiful people (incl. celebrities like Nigel Barker from America's Next Top Model), Alicia Keys etc. This time around, I was able to meet and work with Roberto Aguilar (www.modelmayhem.com/7367) a photographer from Florida based in London. Roberto is SUPER talented and does photography for Tigi Hair Care, Bed Head ads etc. I either stumble upon these people, get connections or simply seek them out on Model Mayhem (http://www.modelmayhem/), a social network for models, actors, hairstylists, makeup artists etc.

Below are a few pics from my photoshoot in London (September 2010). Whenever I travel, I try to network with models and photographers who can assist me in building an international portfolio.

Me & Nigel Barker (ANTM)

Rosey Melon

2010-10-12T21:27:00.004-05:00

It's been a while since I've done a makeup blog post but I finally got my computer back. YAY!!! Here's a look that was done a while ago and I'm soooooooooo sorry but I can't remember what products were used. If I stumble upon them, I'll list them.

Anyway, enjoy this look!

Makeup Giveaway- WINNER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-10-11T10:28:00.004-05:00

As promised, today is October 11, 2010 and it's the day to announce my makeup giveaway winner.........

First of all, let me thank ALL of you who participated in the giveaway. It was great to see everyone's versions of my looks. I really enjoyed it. To all of you, you are still winners in my eyes!! Keep up the awesome work!!

Ok, so without further delays.......................the winner of the makeup giveaway is....................................................

DRUM ROLL.................................
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DEEA from Deaa's Beauty!!!!! Deea recreated my Color Pop look!!!!!

***********CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!*********

Tick, tick, tick.....makeup giveaway...(CLOSED)

2010-09-18T22:36:00.003-05:00

Hi beauties,

Don't let the time run out without you entering the Shades Professional Makeup end of Summer makeup giveaway. Remember that the closing date is September 30, 2010 and there will be no extensions.

Just re-create one of my looks and enter to win!!

MAKEUP GIVEAWAY!!!!! (CLOSED)

2010-09-02T20:20:00.007-05:00

Hey beauties!!!

Giveaways are something that I don't do alot of but here's another opportunity to win fabulous makeup!

SHADES PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP is giving away a beautiful 78 color palette from NYX worth US$25 but you have a chance to add this gorgeous palette to your collection absolutely FREE!!

Here's what you gotta do:

1. You MUST be a follower on my blog AND a fan on my Facebook Page - Shades Professional Makeup (I will be checking)

2. All contestants MUST be 18 years or older (I will need your personal information to mail the pize).

3. You MUST recreate any of my makeup looks listing what products were used and showing pictures of the makeup applied on yourself. DO NOT have your makeup done by anyone else.

4. This giveaway is opened to everyone (yes, international persons also).

5. Competition opened from Sept 1- Sept 30, 2010 and the winner will be announced on October 11, 2010.

6. All images (minimum of 3, maximum of 6) MUST be emailed to me at shadesmakeup@hotmail.com

7. Judging will be done by myself.

8. GOODLUCK!!!

Miss Earth Cayman Islands 2010

2010-08-30T09:59:00.012-05:00

Hey beauties:

First of all, let me just say how much I MISS you and miss blogging. I need a computer ASAP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hmmph!

Anyway, I've been doing lots of makeup on myself for my blog posts (as usual) AND working with the Miss Cayman 2010 contestants and Miss Earth Cayman Islands 2010 (Samantha Widmer) who was announced on Saturday, August 28, 2010.

I received a request from one of the members of N'Vogue Productions to provide makeup services for the Miss Earth Cayman Islands 2010 winner. Of course, I was more than willing and ready to accept such a fabulous opportunity to work with Sam. It was more for the cause than the actual event. Mother Earth belongs to every living creature and we must all share the responsibility of nuturing it. It's the only one we have.

ABOUT MISS EARTH: Miss Earth is an annual international beauty pageant promoting environmental awareness. Along with Miss Universe and Miss World contests, Miss Earth is one of the three largest beauty pageants in the world in terms of the number of national-level competitions to participate in the world finals and is one of the most publicized beauty contests in the world. The reigning titleholders dedicate their year to promote environmental projects and to address issues concerning the environment.

This year's international pageant will be held in Vietnam and can I just tell you that I'd pass out if I were asked to travel with Sam to do her makeup- wishful thinking!!

My day started at 5:30am- FAIL!!!! I am NOT a morning person. Anyway, for the love of makeup, I was up and at 'em in time. I had to meet Sam at the Grand Cayman Beach Suites Resort (formerly the Hyatt) for 7am. The beauty about being out this early in the morning was that I got a chance to watch the sun rise at 5:50ish- HOW GORGEOUS!!! and experienced the freshness of the beach before everyone went out.

Sam had to do an early morning beach shoot as her theme for the international pageant is water, and what better place to do a shoot than on the beautiful, white, sandy beaches of Grand Cayman (yes, I live there). We started makeup around 7:10am and finished at 7:45am.

To give you a sneak peek of my Saturday, August 28, 2010......here is Miss Earth Cayman Islands 2010, Samantha Widmer.

CONGRATULATIONS Samantha and we wish you ALL the very best for this international pageant. I know that you will shine like the star you are.

Samantha Widmer (yes there are blonde hair, green eyed island people)

Sam & I (sorry about the quality of the photo)

Sam & I again

Sam's morning/ beach shoot makeup (she was wearing a

navy blue bikini)

Sam's evening wear shoot. She was wearing a

GORGEOUS 1 strapped dress. Simple but elegant.

The world famous Seven Mile Beach- Grand Cayman (Google it)

NO blog posts

2010-08-18T12:06:00.004-05:00

Hi beauties:

Just thought I'd make a quick blogspot post about no makeup posts because we had a power outage and my laptop got burnt up :(. Needless to say, I didn't have a external harddrive so I lost EVERYTHING on my laptop (boo hoo, sniff sniff). I am NOT happy about it at all but what can I do but start from scratch?

I will be trying to source another computer very soon but until then, I won't be making any makeup posts.

Thanks for your patience with me.

Purple Inferno (Recreated Look)

2010-08-05T19:39:00.004-05:00

YAY Sugarpill!! LOL!!! I happened to stumble across a YouTube Tutorial by Dayon (www.youtube.com/user/krawls80) called Purple Inferno. It was a combination of yellow, orange and purple and it was GORGEOUS. Dayon is also a blogger but she rarely blogs. If you're interested in her work, visit her YouTube Channel. Dayon is a "sista" and she create bold, vivid, original makeup looks. I really like her work. She's super talented.

So today, my look is a recreation of Dayon's look "Purple Inferno". If I'm not mistaken, it received the most comments and recreations on her YouTube channel- GO DAYON!!

Hope you like it! This was my first attempt at this look but I will probably give it another stab. Oh and I forgot to mention....seeing that we're going bold, I used my Sugarpill babies!

Eyes:

Two Faced Shadow Insurance (primer all over lid up to brow)

NYX Jumbo Pencil- Milk (shadow base on lid up to crease)

Sugarpill Buttercupcake (yellow) e/s -(center lid)

Sugarpill Flamepoint (orange) e/s- (around yellow)

Sugarpill Poison Plum (purple) e/s- (outer "C" into crease)

Urban Decay Sin e/s- highlight

MAC Embark e/s- brows

Stila Stay All Day Liquid Liner- top lashline

NYX Doll Eyes Mascara

Face

Clinique Superfit Foundation- Spice

MAC NW43 Studio Fix Powder

MAC Breezy- blush

Lips

MAC Viva Glam

My hair...

2010-08-03T19:04:00.007-05:00

Hey beauties.....

Today I'm doing a quick post on my hair. Yes, my hair! This is the first post as such but I felt the need to do it because I'm constantly being asked if my hair is real. Well yes it is.. I have dread locks and I enjoy it alot. I have been growing my hair for 5 1/2 years.

Ever since I was a child growing up, I always admired dreadlocks and wanted to have my hair done the same. My father also has dreadlocks. (It's pretty hard to see from this photo but yup, he has dreadlocks)

I am a HUGE fan of natural hair. I believe that we were born with the right texture hair for each of us whether it's straight as an arrow or curly like spaghetti. I firmly believe that we were created uniquely and we got everything that we were supposed to get.

Anyway, I've taken a picture showing the actual length of my hair and here are a few frequently asked questions that I usually receive about my hair;

1- How do you wash your hair?

The only difference between my hair and "other" hair is that my hair is matted together to create the "locking" effect. It CANNOT be undone. Regardless of what others say and try, if you try to undo dreadlocks that have been locked, you will lose more hair than what is actually locked. The only way to "undo" dreadloks is to CUT IT. So to answer the question of how I go about washing my hair, I wash it like normal hair- wet, shampoo, lather, scrub, rinse, dry

2- How does it grow that long?

Well I'm not dead so my hair will grow. If I'm not mistaken, the hair continues to grow even when a person is dead. It justs grows and grows and grows and when it gets to a point where I cannot handle it, I will cut it.

3- How do you color your hair?

It's colored just like any other hair type/ texture. Initially I had to bleach the sections of my hair that I wanted colored then apply the hair color (you know the process).

4-Is that your real hair?

YES IT IS!!!!!

5- How do you curl your hair?

I curl my hair on spiral rods which takes forever but nothing else works and not to mention drying time (4hrs under the dryer. Aaaagghhhh)

6- Will you cut it?

Again, when it gets to a point where it's becoming a bother, I will cut it.

7- How is it maintained?

I personally have my hair interlocked every month. Others with dreadlocks may either palm roll or twist the root of the hair to lock in new growth. I've tried all forms of locking my hair but only the interlocking works. The other unravel too quickly. That's just MY personal opinion and preference.

To moisterize my hair, I use Softee Comb-Thru Softener. That stuff is awesome and it smells GREAT.

Ever so often, I'll heat/ steam treat my hair with the raw Jamaican Castor Oil. Steam treating natural hair works great because it locks in moisture and keep the hair from drying out quickly and becoming brittle which eventually leads to breakage. Yes, natural hair breaks too. Sometimes (when I'm in the mood), I'll blend the raw Aloe Vera with the Castor Oil and treat my hair. Nothing beats natural products.

There are alot of great websites on the net about natural hair and more so, dreadlocks. I'm very happy to be nappy. I embrace every facet of my naturalness.

Haul and Review- Pure Luxe Cosmetics

2010-08-02T19:16:00.005-05:00

Hi beauties!! Today I'm going to introduce my Pure Luxe Cosmetics (www.pureluxecosmetics.com) collection. For all the shimmery, sparkley, glittery, mineral eyeshadow lovers, this is the line for you.

Pure Luxe Cosmetics was found by Christina Kocher and I was made aware of it by Jangsara (http://jangsara.blogspot.com/), a fellow blogger. Needless to say, after seeing a few of her makeup looks and swatches, I had to try these colors for myself. I was NOT disappointed.

Pure Luxe Cosmetics is an affordable line of mineral eyeshadows, liners, lip glosses and other makeup accessories. The shadows range from $2-$15. As I said, quite affordable.

I've purchased about 20 colors and I love them all. I'm still trying to decide if I like shimmery, sparkley, metallic shadows or matte shadows. Hmmm......thinking!

My swatches definitelyy don't serve any justice to these rich colors. You really have to try them for yourself.

BLUES

Glory- A completely matte dark blue. Looks like crushed velvet in a jar

Boy Toy- Deep, peacock blue with same shade flashy highlights in it.

Twisted- Bold blue (this is a liner powder. Apply wet and it will POP)

Shameless-A tropical blue with green interference (GORGEOUS COLOR)

Oasis- Bright, summery turquoise. Color changes from metallic, blue/green/ pearl biege/ silver

GREENS

Kinky- Very rich, medium green with yellow/gold highlight (another GORGEOUS, RICH color)

Tart- Very rich light green with lemony highlights

Pandora- Deep green. Metallic finish

BLUE PURPLES/ PURPLES

Blue Jeans- Medium blue with a brighter blue highlight

Utopia- Deep amethyst with charcoal base. Pink/purple interference

Love- Dark, dusty rose with light pink interference and red/pink shimmers.

Seduction- Shimmery burgundy with pink highlights. Works well as a beautiful blusher.

Jezebel- Dusty rose base with blue/ violet interference

Femme Fatal- Beautiful pink/ salmon with pink shimmer

Beauty Queen- SUPER sparkle peach/pink. Sheer base color.

BURGUNDY/ PINK/ GREY

Molten-True red shade. Deep red with brighter red highlights

Risque- Warm red/ brown

Ouch- A candy red with pinkish tone

Ravishing- Medium biege with very pearl finish.

Faceted- Dark taupe/ purple. Changes from red/copper/gold

Dusk- Soft dove grey. Completely matte

Color Pop

2010-07-30T22:45:00.003-05:00

When I started this look, I wasn't quite sure what I was going for but I went back to one of the old MAC collections. If I'm not mistaken, this collection came out in December 2009 with all the duo mineralize eye shadows. I just started adding color and this is what I came up with. Of course I couldn't think of a name so I called it "Color Pop" although it's more like a Peacock.

Eyes:

Two Faced Shadow Insurance (primer)

NYX Jumbo Pencil- Milk (shadow base)

MAC Mineralize Duo e/s- Blue Sorcery (inner lid)

MAC Mineralize Duo e/s- Sea & Sky (mid lid to crease)

MUFE #92 e/s (outer "C")
Coastal Scents e/s- Fuschia (inner crease)

Sugarpill pressed e/s- Buttercupcake (line lower lashline)

Urban Decay e/s- Sin (highlight)

MAC e/s- Embark (brows)

NYX Dolleyes mascara

Face:

Clinique Spice (foundation)

MAC NW45 Studio Fix (powder)

MAC Breezy (blush)

Lips:

MAC Nymphette Lipglass

Morocco Wildfire

2010-07-27T21:01:00.003-05:00

This was a VERY easy and simple look using three different shades of blue from NYX- Morocco (a deep, satin blue, Iris- a bright, matte turquoise and Wildfire- a shimmery blue green). I also attempted to inch away from my usual nude/ neutral lips and added a soft, pinky peach lip color from MAC- Over Indulgence. I'm not a very big fan of bold lips colors for myself but I will try them.

Eyes:

Two Faced Shadow Insurance (shadow primer)

NYX Jumbo Pencil- Milk (shadow base)

NYX Morocco e/s (lid)

NYX Iris e/s (above Morocco up to crease)

NYX Wildfire (crease to brow bone)

Lorac Serenity e/s (highlight)

MAC Embark e/s (brows)

NYX Mascara (upper & lower lashline)

MUFE Aqua Color Liner-Silver (lower lash line & water line)

Face:

MAC NC50 Studio Tech (foundation)

MAC NW43 Studio Fix (powder)

MAC Breezy (blush)

Lips:

MAC Over Indulgence Cremesheen Gloss

Sunkissed Plum

2010-07-25T14:44:00.007-05:00

**WARNING- Ungroomed, unkept, unshaped brows in this post. Viewer beware!!**

Since I received my Sugarpill Cosmetics, I've been dying to create a look but just couldn't find the time to do so and I wanted to create a look using the 4 pressed shadows that I bought- Poison Plum, Buttercupcake, Love and Flamepoint. Well seeing that I had colors of a sunset (red, yellow and orange) I couldn't resist doing a sunset look but how was I going to incorporate the purple?? Well this is what I came up with and I like it!

I'm definitely going to create more looks using my Sugarpill colors because I love that they're so pigmented and blend-able (haha, is that even a word??)

Eyes:
Two Faced Shadow Insurance (e/s primer all over eye area up to brow)
NYX Jumbo Pencil- Milk (inner lid)
NYX Jumbo Pencil- Yellow (mid lid up to crease)
NYX Jumbo Pencil- Cherry (outer lid up to crease)
Sugarpill Buttercupcake pressed e/s (inner lid)
Sugarpill Flamepoint pressed e/s (mid lid up to crease)
Sugarpill Love e/s (outer lid up to crease)
Sugarpill Poison Plum pressed e/s (lower lash line & water line)
Superpill Lumi loose shadow (between double wings)
NYX liner- White (lower water line)
MAC Penultimate Black liner (upper & lower lash line with extended wing)
NYX Mascara (upper & lower lashes)
MAC Embark e/s (brows)
Urban Decay Sin e/s (highlight under brows)

Face:
MAC NC50 Studio Tech (foundation)
MAC Refined Golden Bronze (powder)
MAC Breezy (blush)

Lips:
MAC Viva Glam IV Lipglass

Haul and Review- Sugarpill Cosmetics

2010-07-17T16:03:00.006-05:00

Sugarpill Cosmetics (www.sugarpillshop.com) seems to be the latest craze on the market. I've seen many reviews, heard great things and simply had to try it for myself. Well, it is surely a PASS in my books.If you love bright, bold, pigmented colors like me, then this is DEFINITELY the line for you. The pressed shadows & loose powders cost a very LOW and reasonable US$12 and the best part is that they ship internationally. Woo hoo for people like me!!! YAY!!!

WHAT THEY SAY

Sugarpill cosmetics is a custom line of vibrant, richly-pigmented, velvety pressed eyeshadows and sparkling lose powders.

Suparpill was born in 2010, offering dramatic shades with long-lasting wear that remains flawlessly bold throughout the day and night.

Over Indulgence in Molten Grape

2010-07-12T21:22:00.009-05:00

Doesn't that sound awesome.....yuuummmm, molten grape!! Well sorry, this isn't about food but simply about this look I created using Molten from Pure Luxe Cosmetics, nameless Purple from Coastal Scents and Arena from MAC

Eyes:

Two Faced Shadow Insurance (shadow primer over entire lid up to brow)
MAC Groundwork Paintpot (entire lid)
MAC Arena (inner lid & highlight)
Pure Luxe Molten (burgandy color mid-to-outer lid up to crease)
Coastal Scents Purple (outer lid into crease)
MAC Embark (brows)
NYX Black Liquid Liner (upper lash line)
Maybeline Volum' Express mascara
MAC Engraved liner (lower lash line)

Face:
MAC NC50 Studio Tech (Foundation)
MAC NW45 Studio Fix (Powder)
MAC Breezy (blush)

Lips:
MAC Over Indulgence Cremesheen Lipgloss

Easy Breezy, Making It Easy for a Nymphette

2010-07-09T11:35:00.007-05:00

Now before you guys get all excited about the name of this post, it's simply from the colors I used by MAC. Yes, there is a MAC Lipglass called Nymphette....can you believe it? LOL! Anyway, I took today off because I was supposed to be going to Ft. Lauderdale for the U2 concert which got postponed until a later date because Bono had back surgery (a speedy recovery Bono) but instead of going away, I'm here, at home, playing with my new colors from MAC, 1 of which is a trio, mineral eyeshadow from the new collection- Making It Easy. It's a pretty neutral trio but nice.

For some odd reason, it was pretty hard trying to capture the right light so that these colors would show up but this is as close as I came. Hope you like it.....

Eyes:

Two Faced Shadow Insurance (shadow primer all over lid up to brow bone)

MAC Paintpot- Groundwork (base al over lid up to brow bone)

MAC Making It Easy trio e/s (inner to outer lid up to crease )

MAC Play on Plums mineral e/s (crease upwards)

NYX Gold Liquid Liner (upper lashline)

MUFE Waterproof liner -Gold (lower lash line)

NYX Waterproof mascara (top lashes)

MAC Embark e/s (brow)

MAC Arena e/s (highlight)

Face:

MAC NC50 Studio Tech (foundation)

MAC Refined Golden (bronzer powder)

MAC Breezy (blush)

Lips:

MAC Nymphette (lipglass)

Colors Blends.....preview

2010-07-05T18:38:00.004-05:00

Here's a preview of a photoshoot that was done at my house. Only recently did I get this fabulous idea to use my spare bedroom as a photo/ makeup studio while it still has no furniture, so I rang up a photographer friend of mine (Luis Vallecillo) who is ALWAYS willing to shoot. Even though the day was VERY dreary and it was pouring buckets outside, he was up for it and so was the model Alex, who I was going to work with for the very first time. I'm usually not very comfortable having strangers in my space but it was my idea to shoot at my house right? Well, I'm glad that I decided to do that because the shoot went well. I took quite a few "behind the scenes" shots also.....

More pics to come....

Rainy Sunshine....

2010-07-04T15:51:00.005-05:00

As usual, I struggle to name my makeup looks but this one, although it's quite an oxymoron, is actually realistic also because sometimes, even though it's pouring rain outside, the sun is still shining through. Sometimes the clouds and the sky look so mean yet, peeking through those clouds, is the sunshine.

So with no further delay, here's the look I came up with using only 3 simple colors- black, yellow and white (Rainy Sunshine).

Eyes:
Two Faced Shadow Insurance (e/s primer)
NYX Jumbo Pencil (Milk- inner lid)
NYX Jumbo Pencil (Yellow- mid to outer lid)
NYX White e/s (inner lid)
NYX Yellow Funk e/s (mid lid up to crease)
NYX Odyssey (outer "v" & lower lash line)
NYX Liquid Liner (Black- upper lashline)
Urban Decay e/s (Sin- highlight)
MAC Embark e/s (brows)
Maybeline Volum' Express (mascara)

Face:
MAC NC50 Studio Tech (foundation)
MAC NW45 Studio Fix (powder)
MAC Raizin' (blush)

Lips:
MAC Beaux Lipgloss

Smoothblue Freshwater Look...

2010-06-30T21:56:00.010-05:00

This look was actually quite fun and I love how it turned out. Bold colors really show up on me. Anyway, the name of this look "Smoothblue Freshwater" and it's from the colors that I used.

I wanted something to match the top I was wearing (dark teal) so this is what I did.

Eyes:
Two Faced Shadow Insurance (primary primer- entire lid up to brow)
NYX Jumbo Pencil - Milk (lid to crease)
MAC Primary Yellow (inner lid)
MAC Freshwater(outer lid & outer lower lash line)
MAC Plumage (outer V & outer crease)
MUFE #92 (inner crease & inner lower lash line)
Urban Decay Sin (highlight under brow)
MAC Embark (fill brows)
MAC Penultimate liner (upper lash line)
Maybeline Volum' Express (mascara)

Face:
MAC NC50 Studio Tech (foundation)
MAC NW45 Studio Fix (powder)
MAC Raizin (blush)

Lips:
MAC Pinkarat

Soft, sultry, smokey eyes

2010-06-28T22:20:00.009-05:00

I wanted to do something very quick, very easy and very sexy and what better combination to use than black and silver. It was a bit late when I started this look but it didn't take me very long and it turned out pretty good (at least I think so).....

It's a pretty sexy red carpet look....paired with neutral lips

Eyes:

Two Faced Shadow Insurance (Primer)

MAC Grease Paint Shadestick- Black (prime lid to crease)
Nameless matte black eye shadow (lid to crease)
MAC Cinderfella (over the matte black)
MAC White Frost (highlight & lower waterline)
MAC Embark (brows)
NYX Silver liner (upper lid liner)
Invisiband Demi Wispies Lashes

Face:
MAC NC50 Studio Tech (foundation)
MAC NW45 Studio Fix (powder)
MAC Raizin (blush)

Lips:
MAC Girl's Delight Dazzle Glass

Cinderellas PROM 2010!!

2010-06-24T21:51:00.005-05:00

Congrats to all the graduates of Class 2010.

Oh I can vaguely remember my graduation and prom for high school (yes it's been that long) but I'm sure I was equally as excited as the graduates today.

Today, June 24, 2010, beautiful little queens were preparing for their high school prom, something that would never happen again and I had the priviledge of working with a beautiful young lady who's also celebrating her birthday tomorrow (June 25). She was great to work with and there was something very unique about her because for the very first time in her life, she was going to wear makeup and hope to feel pretty.

Her theme was Cinderella and that's exactly what she looked like. Here are her photos:

La-Vann before (with primer on lids)

Crushed berries

2010-06-15T20:23:00.008-05:00

GUESS WHO'S BACK???

Woo hoo!! Yes, I'm finally getting back in the groove of things and feeling to play around with makeup!! I know I've been gone for some time but I'm back now.

Today, I wanted to use random colors and so I thought I'd play with fushia and royal blue. In between blending and applying colors, I thought of berries (raspberries and blue berries) hence the name "Crushed Berries".

This is what I came up with.....

Eyes
- MAC White Frost (highlight)
- Victoria Secret Wanted (blue)
- Coastal Scents Fushia
- NYX Navy Blue liner
- Maybeline Volum' Express mascara
- MUFE Aqua Color White liner (water line)
- MAC Embark (brows)

Face
- NC50 Studio Tech foundation
- NYX Chocolate Pressed Powder
- MAC Breezy blush

Lips
- MAC Spirited

Fashion Extravaganza 2010

2010-05-31T10:23:00.014-05:00

*** FASHION EXTRAVAGANZA 2010***

N'Vogue Productions Fashion Extravaganza 2010 (http://nvogueproductions.com/News%20and%20Events.htm) was a FABULOUS event. Of course, I had the awesome priviledge of being the official makeup artist for the event and had the opportunity to work with Kerrie Baylis- Miss Jamaica 2009, Sara Lawrence- Miss Jamaica 2006, Miss Jamaica World 2005-Dr. Terri-Karelle Reid and International Models Mrs. Roxene Nickle- Alveranga and Mr. Andre Watson. I also had the prviledge of working with my very own Miss Cayman 2004- Stacyann Kelly

Dramatic runway fashions by international designer Mutamba, Uzuri International, and Pablo Palair as well as our own upcoming designer Jawara Alleyne (awarded Designer of the Year 2009 and 2010). Featuring our local boutiques: Infinity, La Chic, Lorna's Exquisite Fashions, One & Only and Temptation.

The producers and directors of the show were so overly pleased with my makeup that they've already booked me as next year's makeup artist for Fashion Extravaganza 2011. Isn't that awesome?????

Here are a few pictures from the event....

Miss Jamaica 2006- Sara Lawrence

Miss Jamaica World 2005- Dr. Terri Reid, Miss Jamaica 2009- Miss Kerri Baylis & Miss Jamaica 2006- Miss Sara Lawrence

Local photographer Tracey Seymour & I

Cleopatra "Cloz" Henry

Kassia Webb

Miss Jamaica World 2005- Dr. Terri-Karelle Reid

Int'l Model Roxene Nickle- Alveranga

Of course I had to get a few Blackberry mobile photos in there too....

Sara Lawrence- Miss Jamaica 2006 & I

Miss Jamaica 2009- Kerri Baylis & I

Miss Jamaica World 2005- Dr. Terri-Karelle Reid & I

Me applying makeup on Miss Jamaica 2006- Sara Lawrence

M.I.A and Update

2010-05-28T11:43:00.002-05:00

Hey beauty bloggers,

I know that I've been a bad girl.....I've been gone from my blog for sooooo very long but I have the perfect reason (excuse).........I bought a house!!!!!! YAY ME!!! I've been mad busy with that so unfortunately my makeup has been pushed to the side but I promise that I'll be back soon.

Also, more exciting news, tonight, Friday, May 28, 2010 is the very big and long-awaited Fashion Extravaganza 2010 right here in the Cayman Islands and guess who's the makeup artist?? Yup, that's right, it's ME!! I have 11 beautiful models from the Cayman Islands and Jamaica (Miss Jamaica 2009, Miss Jamaica 2006, Miss Jamaica 2005 etc) and it's surely going to be a GREAT event!

I'll be back here with pictures and all that good stuff.

Until then, stay beautiful!!!

How To Wear Colored Shadows

2010-03-15T21:10:00.013-05:00

Light pink

Blake lively paired a soft, metallic pink shadow with an artfully applied stripe of winged liner.

Extreme pink

Rihanna donned a dramatic fushia streak along her lower lashline

Light green

Natalie Portman paired a subtle line of green shadow along her top and bottom lashline with a
bold, fushia lipstick

Extreme Green

Alicia Keys looked dynamic with a burst of lime shadow, enhanced with precise black eyeliner

Light Gold

Jennifer Lope exuded luxe confidence with golden shadow and mega lashes

Extreme Gold

Diane Kruger channeled Old Hollywood by pairing a strong brow with a flash of yellow gold mettalic shadow starting at the inner corner of her eyes.

Light Purple

Emily Blunt made a stunning appearance at the Golden Globes. The nominee paired with a whisper of aubergine shadow and a hint of pink on her lips.

Extreme Purple

Emma Stone has tawny skin which means this plum shadow really popped.

Light Silver

Kate Hudson looks fresh with glowy skin and light-catching silver shadow on her lids

Extreme Silver

Jennifer Hudson paired heavy silver shadow with sparkling lips

Light Blue

Glee Star Lea Michele looks fittingly fresh and pretty with a hint of blue on her eyes and sweet, rosy gloss

Extreme Blue

Taylor Swift rocked a wash of sea blue all the way up to the brow bone

12 Model Beauty Tricks We All Should Know

2010-02-18T11:01:00.003-05:00

1. Easter egg colors are your friend

We’re loving this cheery remix of the smoky eye. Just swap your charcoal shadow for the grown-up pastels makeup artist Dick Page used on models at Michael Kors. He lined their eyes with black pencil, then added gold shimmer in the inner corners. Next, he applied light blue or purple shadow along the lower curve of the eyes and from the lash line to just above the crease, then smudged, smudged, smudged. He finished with black mascara.

2. Pretty eye shadows to try

Wearable pastels Shiseido Makeup Luminizing Satin Eye Color in Bone, Fondant and Provence

3. An allover skin soother

Dashing from show to show and getting makeup done and redone can leave a model’s skin dull and sensitive. The cure: an ultrarich moisturizing balm. Makeup artist Sarah Lucero used one to prep models’ faces behind the scenes at the Lela Rose show. The bonus? “It creates dewiness before you apply makeup,” she told me. Smooth it on and let it sink in. “You can also use it on the lips,” Lucero said.

4. Fab skin and lip savers

A one-minute way to glow? Darphin Aromatic Renewing Balm ($70, darphin .com). For a cheaper moisturizer alternative that’s easy to track down, check your medicine cabinet—a bit of petroleum jelly works too.

5. Orange is the new red (lipstick!)

We saw this again and again backstage and learned the trick to pulling it off: Just pick one spot to play up. Makeup pro Lucia Pica chose the cheeks at the Erin Fetherston show. She rubbed creamy orange blush onto the models’ cheekbones with her fingers—a nice, bright contrast to their smoky brown eyeshadow.

6. A lipstick to love

At Rebecca Taylor, makeup artist Rie Omoto used MAC Lipstick in Lady Danger. Apply it with a lip brush for more control.

7. A cure for tarantula lashes

In between primping models at BCBG, vice president of MAC makeup artistry Gordon Espinet taught me his secret for keeping lashes defined and clump-free: Apply mascara with a fan brush. Just rub it over your mascara wand, then brush it onto your lashes—the stiff bristles are great for separating. How genius is that?

8. Try a textured mani

Think of your nails as a showpiece accessory (they’re jewelry, but cheaper), and apply a polish with sparkle—like chunky glitter or gold flecks—built in. “It’s all about texture,” manicurist Elle told me at the Reem Acra show. Another way to wear the trend: Try a dark, opaque shade, with a sheer, shimmery layer on top.

9. For blingy nails

Try, from left: Tracy Reese for Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure in Hidden Treasure and Midnight in New York ($7 each, at drugstores), and Shades by Barielle in Falling Star ($8, barielle.com). One more tip? Finish with a topcoat—glitter polishes are chip-prone.

10. Do an unboring decorated bun

Classic chignons are a runway staple, but the best ones this year got dressed up with fabric. At the Tibi show, hairstylists Kevin Ryan and Frank Rizzieri confessed that they used leftover fabric to frame the models’ updos. And at Jason Wu, hair pro Odile Gilbert used sheer black cloth to add drama to the models’ hair. “It’s fresh and spontaneous,” she said. To DIY, twist your hair into a bun, wrap fabric around it and make big loops with the material, pinning them into place as you go.

11. Vampy lips done right

The super-intense lipstick combo MAC artist Romero Jennings used for the Jason Wu show made me want to take a temporary hiatus from my usual nudes—it’s that gorgeous. First he applied a deep berry matte lipstick with a lip brush to create a base. Then he added a creamy eggplant shade on top, pressing it in with his fingers for a modern, stained effect. You can perfect the line with a cotton swab or a lip brush (no liner needed). As for your eyes, keep them simple like Jennings did. Apply bronzy shadow and brown liner, then curl your lashes. So fresh!

12. Add texture to your ponytail

Why Ted Gibson loves the roughed up look: “You get a really interesting ponytail rather than the same old version you always wear.” At Lela Rose, Gibson spritzed sections of the models’ wet hair with hairspray, then rolled the pieces with his fingers while blow-drying for messiness. Laurent Philippon used a crimper to go punk at Monique Lhuillier. Crimp a big front section and pull your hair back, keeping the sides of the pony slick. Secure with an elastic, then crimp down along the tail.

Source: http://lifestyle.msn.com/your-look/fashion-week/staticslideshowglamour.aspx?cp-documentid=23416918&gt1=32013