Showing posts with label makeup. Show all posts
Showing posts with label makeup. Show all posts

Beauty: Holiday Gift Guide

Hope everyone is enjoying this Holiday Season! Monica here from Beauty Parler. If you're like me I tend to wait last minute to buy gifts. But, I seriously need to change that habit as most beauty gifts sell out quick. For any beauty aficionado this is the season to do some serious shopping and I mean for yourself too. Stock up on your favourite makeup products because it's the best time to find deals and kits that aren't normally offered throughout the year.

For example, the Charlotte Tilbury 'The Bombshell' Set is almost a complete full-face set minus a foundation at an exceptional value versus buying the items separately. Items like makeup brushes are another great add to your wish-list. Sigma Brushes (as pictured) are a great gift for a teen or young adult who is looking to start a makeup kit without breaking the bank.

Can't forget those work parties and Secret Santa exchange. Co-workers love hand creams and lipbalms. Kiehl's is my go-to source in that department. Love the Kiehl's #1 Lip Balm, perfect for dry cracked Winter lips. For the lipstick lovers at the office or a great hostess gift, the Clinique 'Days of the Week' Matte lipstick set if a fabulous gift.

Am I the only one that likes to stock up on beauty products this time of year? Do tell. Happy Shopping!

-post by Monica

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BEAUTY: RED LIPS FOR FALL

Is it too early to think about Fall? Hi, Monica here from Beauty Parler.

My favourite season is around the corner and although many of you might not want to think about Fall it is coming. Fall brings us gorgeous hues of browns, oranges, and reds. The crispness of a cool night, stomping on leaves and drinking lattes. But, my favorite is the look of a red lip. I find that many either love a red lip or hate it. Primarily due to the fact that finding the right shade of red can be difficult. Honestly, I embraced the red lip in my early 30's.

I'd be jealous of my friends that wore a red lip because they always seemed; sophisticated, confident, and sexy. Of which I didn't have the confidence to wear in my 20's. Although I loved shades of deep pinks I couldn't find the right shade of red. I've narrowed down a few of my favorites. Admittedly, hands down my ultimate red lipstick is MAC Dubonnet.  A true classic that has been around since the 1990's.  Have a great weekend!



01 MAC Dubonnet //02 Maybelline Color Sensational Red Revival //03 NARS Fire Down Below //04 Mary Kay Red (Satin)


Do you love a Red Lip? Which are your favorite shades?



-post by monica darosa
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beauty: How-to-fake it with bronzer

Hope you all are enjoying your Summer! Hi, Monica here from Beauty Parler. You don't need a lecture from a beauty blogger about the dangers of suntanning. By now most of you know that the best way to fake a tan is using a bronzer. However, finding the right bronzer might mean buying a few to find the right shade and finish. Here are a few staples of mine that are just the right shade of brown without looking too muddy or red. A few are meant for more shimmer while others are great as a contour powder.

Which bronzers are your favourites?








-post by monica darosa  



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BEAUTY: SUMMER MAKEUP ROUTINE

Summer is finally here! Monica here from beautyparler with my Summer Routine. Adding a bright shade of lipstick and nail polish keeps the routine easy but adds a punch of color. Here are a few of my makeup favourites.


On days I don't want to wear a "full-face" I prefer a light weight base like a tinted moisturizer. Staying out of the sun rays means faking a tan, a golden bronzer brings out the glow. As for the eyes, I prefer not wearing any eyeshadow and keeping it simple with a black mascara. Now, for color I love bright pink lips and nails. Reminds me of watermelon on a hot Summer day!









-Monica Da Rosa from Beautyparler.ca


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BEAUTY: SUMMER FOUNDATIONS

Hi Everyone! Monica here from beauty parler.  Hope you're all embracing the nicer weather. Although the weather has it's dips in temperature this time of year the hot sticky Summer days are coming! Which means sweaty makeup which can look caked on. Well, that's a definite no and can all be avoided by switching out your foundation to a more Summer friendly one.

On hot sweaty days, the last thing I want to do is wear any makeup. But on days that I head out to work or attend beauty events, I like to wear a little makeup. Makes me feel more polished and put together. Anyone else feel like that too? Here are three of my Summer must-have foundations.




1/NARS All-Day Luminous Weightless Foundation | 2/MAC Face & Body Foundation | 3/Maybelline Dream Wonder Fluid Touch Foundation

In general, all three of these are similar in texture. Light-weight, watery, and build-able coverage. With formulas so watery those with drier skin types will find that they'll need to apply a good moisturized base or can emphasis dry patches. These formulas work wonderfully for those with oily to combination skin types. The NARS All-Day Luminous Weightless Foundation and the Maybelline Dream Wonder Fluid Touch Foundation are a semi-matte to matte finish. Whereas, MAC Face & Body Foundation has a dewier finish and those with drier skin types will like this foundation better than the other two.
In terms of application because these are so watery they are best applied with your fingers or foundation brush. I'd suggest not using a beauty sponge as it would just absorb too much product.

I hope I helped you start your Summer makeup routine. Share your favourite Summer makeup?


-post by monica
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7 beauty products I use every day

I get a lot of questions about what I use for beauty products everyday. Well, it's pretty simple.  I tend to try different things, but like most women, I'll usually stick to what works. Here are 6 beauty products I use that work for me & why:



2. joeur cosmetics mineral powder blush


-post by jen ramos



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BEAUTY: BEAUTY & THE BROWS

 Hi! Monica, here from beautyparler.  Jen, is away enjoying her bundle of joy today! So happy for her & her husband! As a mom to an 18 month old, I know how tiring and exciting those first weeks are.

So, March is here already which means Spring is near. One beauty trend that will continue this Spring is the full brow. In all honesty, regardless of trendy or not I've always been a fan of a fuller brow. Now, not all of us are born with full brows. So, sometimes we just have to FAKE it.  Growing up as a teen in the 90's meant that two brow trends came into effect. For the first part of the 90's full sculpted brows and by the mid to late 90's a thinner brow was in.  My mom warned me, "once you start tweezing those brows they'll never grow back the same or ever".  Mom knows best! Thankfully, I listened.

Weather you use a brow pencil, cream or powder there are countless brow products to choose from and fake it if necessary.  A new release is Maybelline Eye Studio Brow Drama, an easy to use mascara for brows. A great method for those that don't want to fully commit to a full sculpted brow. Looking to fill in sparse brows, a pencil is another easy method. An old favorite of mine, MAC Cosmetics Brow Pencil, is a no nonsense pencil that defines and allows for a more precise brow. For shading in brows, Benefit Cosmetics Brow Zings is a great kit for beginners.

Although, brow powders can be a tad time consuming you can achieve a more natural looking brow. The newest brow product in my kit, Anastasia Dip Brow Pomade is a water-proof cream formula that basically does the job of all three products listed above but in one product. Sculpt, define, shade, and fill-in brows using the dip brow. This product is for those not afraid of a more intense brow. Lastly, Wink Eyelash and Eyebrow Enhancer is for those that over tweezed. Increase and thicken hair with usage of Wink.


What do you think of fuller more natural eyebrows?




-post by monica darosa


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BEAUTY: 2015 Lipstick Trends!

Please excuse the absence - Jen is away for a couple weeks there will be a few sporadic posts. So today, we are discussing the 2015 lipstick trend...

Hi everyone! Sami from The Unexpected Type here today to talk about lipstick trends for the upcoming season! With Spring just around the corner, I need an instant beauty refresher to wake me up from using Winter neutrals and I always reach for a new lip color to do the trick. Lipstick is one of the easiest ways to transform any look from head to toe! A quick red lip can add mega drama and impact to a power outfit, rather than opting for your run-of-the-mill nude lipstick, am I right ladies

Some amazing colors hit the S/S 2015 catwalk this year and I've picked the top three trends that you can work into your style as the snow starts to melt and Spring pops into play. This year, prepare for a fiery statement lip of orange-red hues, a luscious, just-bitten look, and a perfectly plump pout. These hues will add an instant touch of Spring as you transition into the bright, sunny season.



1. NYX Cosmetics / Target
2. Nars Cosmetics / Sephora
3. Givenchy / Sephora

There's a designated statement lip for each season and this year it's a fiery, orange-red. Kiss fuchsia goodbye this year and say "Hello" to the power orange! For bright colors, you'll need a great lip liner as your base. I also recommend using a tapered lip brush to apply the color to make sure it's completely saturated and looks crisp. The rest of your face to should have minimal makeup with this look, since Spring is all about keeping it fresh and clean.



1. CoverGirl Cosmetics / Covergirl
2. Bite Beauty / Sephora
3. Rouge Dior / Sephora

The nude lip is getting an update, too! If you aren't quite ready to jump head-first into fiery hues, the 'Just-Bitten' look is perfect for you. Mauve pinks just a shade darker than your natural lip color give your lips a plump, voluminous look and is a great choice for someone just venturing into trying out lipstick trends. Compliment your lips with highlighted, bronzed cheeks and tones of brown eye shadow for a natural, but gorgeous, look.



1. Make Up Forever / Sephora
2. Yves Saint Laurent
3. MAC Cosmetics / MAC Cosmetics

If you're all about the dark lip, plum is the perfect shade for you! Instead of poppy pinks, romantic purple hues are all over the radar and complimenting a bunch of collections hitting stores soon. Complete this look with dewy skin, top-lined eyes, and a fresh coat of mascara.

Whether you're ready to make the jump to a daring statement look or ease into an update of your natural look, these trends are a fun way to get inspired and spark your creativity. Whatever your new look is, remember that trends are just guidelines and true style shines through with what you do with them!

- post by Sami
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MORNING BEAUTY ROUTINE

This is a series called - "Morning BEAUTY Routine" - it's all about what YOU put on your face every morning.  I, (Jen Ramos) featured myself in the first one, which you can read here.  So...today we have Christiana from the blog, Bliss and Misc  This is a great way to learn about beauty products others are using & what they think of them!

AFRICAN BLACK SOAP:
I actually was just recently introduced to this at a "Favorite Things Party". I had just run out of my favorite (and more expensive) facewash so it was a case of right place and right time! I was blessed with flawless skin during my pregnancy but now that my baby is nearing a year my skin has started to get back to it's old (awful) habits. This has a nice clean scent and is non-drying. It's full of wonderful organic ingredients like Coconut oil, aloe and Vitamin E, plus it's sustainably produced. Even better a bar is around $4. I love something that works and is a great deal!

LOREAL IDEAL MOISTURE EVEN TONE:
Anything that can save me a step or two in the morning is a must-have, especially if I don't have time for much more than washing my face and throwing on a moisturizer. This one is fabulous. It's got SPF (which we all need) and contains a little bit of a sheen which helps to even out the appearance of my skin. It's non-greasy and has a scent of it since many combo products smell a bit to much like sunscreen.

BENEFIT HELLO FLAWLESS BRIGHTENING MAKEUP:
I started using this a few years ago and it's absolutely worth every penny. It goes on smoothly and provides great coverage despite being very lightweight (which means it doesn't sink into the wrinkles I'm trying to hide). Being fair skinned I have always had a hard time finding a color that matched my skin without totally washing me out and this comes in a good variety of in-between shades. Like my moisturizer it contains sunscreen so between the two of them hopefully I've protected my face!

BURT'S BEES TINTED LIP BALM:
I've never been much of a fan of lipstick on myself, I can't seem to get the color right or it wipes off and I forget to reapply. I love Burt's Bees products in general and this 100% natural lip balm gives my lips a touch of color while keeping them from getting dry, plus it's error proof (no needing to worry about "color in the lines"). My favorite color is Honeysuckle, it's a nice peachy natural color with just a little sheen.

BENEFIT THEY'RE REAL MASCARA:
Pretty lashes help make me feel more pulled together even when in reality most of the time I'm far from it. This mascara goes on great and doesn't flake or require more than one coat. It stays on all day and doesn't clump. That's pretty much everything you'd ever want from a mascara - unless it could apply itself.

URBAN DECAY NAKED BASICS:
While I love the larger Urban Decay Naked palettes this mini eye palette is the one I use EVERY SINGLE day. It contains six flattering matte shades which is great because while I love some shimmer and glitter I don't really need to look like a disco ball while I'm running errands. The small size makes it super portable so even if I don't get a chance to do it before I walk out the door I can throw it in my bag to finish up later.



- If you're a blogger & would love to participate this series, email us pics of your FAVE morning beauty facial products & a pic or two of yourself.  Pls send in a similar format as this post above. If we like what you sent, we will feature you!!


-post by christina from bliss and misc 


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BEAUTY: SPRING BEAUTY TRENDS

Hi ladies, Rachel of Life Unsweetened here again to talk about the latest beauty buzz. Today I'm focusing on spring 2014 beauty trends. It's hard to believe winter is finally behind us, but now we can all pull out the coral blushes and pastel nail polishes we've been hoarding all winter. While I didn't have the opportunity to see any of the spring runway shows (I am just a normal girl after all), I caught up on all the coverage via my favorite blogs and magazines. Here are 3 of my favorite spring beauty trends - what are yours? First up is orange lips.



While this shade might seem scary, I promise that it's not. If you're a newbie, choose an orange-red or coral shade. If you want to go bolder, choose a vibrant, bold orange like the new Marc Jacobs Beauty Lovemarc Lip Gel in "122 All The Way". Next is dewy, glowing skin. This look is the perfect mix between winter's matte finish and summer's sweaty complexion (ok, so that last part is a joke- sort of). For a dewy finish, choose a moisturizing and illuminizing foundation or BB cream, like the Edward Bess Ultra Dewy Complexion Perfector.

If you don't want to splurge on a new foundation, try adding a drop of pure Argan oil on top of your foundation and gently press it into your skin. The last spring beauty trend I'm loving is the classic cat eye. Sure, some would argue this look is always in style, but spring is time to amp it up a notch. Practice makes perfect, so find your favorite liquid eye liner (or use this handy Cat Eye Velvet Eyeliner Applique from Sephora) and get going!


-post by rachel

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Beauty: Rosy Pink Makeup

Hi MADE BY GIRL readers, it's Rachel from Life Unsweetened. If you're anything like me, you're excited about all the possibilities of Spring. Although the weather outside feels more like winter lately in some parts of the country, spring is here!  With the change in seasons comes a standard change in makeup as well. Instead of the matte foundation and dark liners we loved in winter, spring is all about a dewy finish and pastel hues. This gorgeous rosy look features pretty pink cheeks and shadow and a girly milkmaid braid.



To copy this look, let's start off with your hair. Prep by spraying with a texturizing spray for hold. To make a simple milkmaid braid, part your hair down the center and then divide your hair into two sections. Braid each section so you have pigtails. Then criss-cross each braid and pin with bobby pins.

To get a youthful, dewy look on your skin, try a spray foundation, like the Diorskin Airflash Spray Foundation. Once it dries, apply a pink blush to cheeks, like Buxom True Hue Blush in "Blushing Peach". Make sure to blend enough with a brush that the blush mimics your natural flush color, since sometimes the color in the package can be intimidating. Now it's time to focus on the eyes. Pink shadow might seem odd, but if you choose a pastel shade with some shimmer you're set.

Try the Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow in "Ballet Pink"- you won't be disappointed. The model's pale complexion and light hair calls for a black-brown mascara, since dark black can be too harsh. Try the Clinique High Impact Mascara in "Black/Brown" for a similar effect.



-post by rachel



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BEAUTY: THE 60'S EYE TREND

Hi MBG readers it’s Allie from ALLIE NYC and today we are going to talk about a daring and bold trend—the sixties eye. First it was all about a strong brow and now that strong brow is accompanied by a prominent and structured smoky eye, otherwise known as the sixties eye. There is nothing subtle about this look, it turned heads in the 1960’s and it will turn heads today. We first saw this at the shows last spring where Mac Jacobs featured the look with side swept bangs. This trend continued during Paris Fashion week for fall 2014 with the overtly sixties eye at Saint Laurent—complete with drawn on lower lashes.


This may not be the easiest of looks to pull off, and it may be best to leave the drawn on lashes to the professionals, but if you are feeling adventurous then I say go for it. You will need lots of dark smoky shadow, you can do grays or browns or even a deep purple. Traditionally a very dark almost black shadow is used like this one from Marc Jacobs, but if this a bit to goth for you then this kit by Clinique has everything you need. From lightest beige to a deep brown and everything in-between it has got you covered. And black liquid liner is a must. This liner by EYEKO is super black and also features WIDELASH lash enhancer, which will make your eye lashes appear longer and stronger in three weeks, so no need for falsies! And it should be a no brainer that a good brow pencil should be in the makeup bag of any self respecting fashionista. This Benefit brow pencil has a blending spoolie, drys to a powder finish, and even comes with step by step instructions.

Now if you have very dark brows like me it can be hard to find a pencil that is dark enough. I generally use a matte black powder and an angled brush. I also get them tinted. I love this, because my brows look done all the time and requires no skill on my part. Cool, huh? And finally a pale lip is key in pulling off this look. So look for light pink based lipsticks and lip stains. I love this shade from Givenchy with it’s subtle light reflecting color—just enough to look dewy with out looking frosted, plus it contains antioxidants so it nourishes while adding color—a great feature for someone like me who suffers from chronic chapped lips. I didn’t get to the shows in Paris this year, ok any year, who I am kidding, but I can feel like I attended the YVL shows by spritzing myself with their fragrance aptly named “Parisienne”. Well there is always next year!

 So, would you do the sixties eye? Is this too dramatic for you, or do love the drama?



-Image of Twiggy via Imgur, second image via ALLURE
-post by alicia mackin



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MORNING BEAUTY ROUTINE

This is a new series called -  "Morning BEAUTY Routine" - it's all about what YOU put on your face every morning.  For me, it's pretty simple, although my husband would disagree.  He always wonders why I have so many beauty products.  Then like most men he asks me, "Do you really need all this stuff?" My response is "no, but you never know when it will come in handy."

I normally buy 2 different eye creams & although this Estee Lauder is my current fave (which I got for free), I also really love the Revitalizing eye-cream by Restorsea.  If used correctly, eye-creams can actually last a long time, saving you lots of money. Because let's face it, eye-creams aren't cheap. However, when you're 40 like I am (& everything starts to dry up) they come in handy! Below I'll go more in depth on the rest of the products I use each morning!


GARNIER BB CREAM:
Like many of you - I had been spending top dollar $$$ on liquid foundations like Laura Mercier & Chanel.  Well, not anymore. Ever since Garnier came out with their BB Cream - I was hooked. I started to add up all the monies I spent on foundation in the last several years, and gulp! However, BB cream just recently came into the scene, so it wasn't even available to me when I was 24.  Ok, so For $12.99 you can enjoy this multi-benefit product. It gives you awesome skin coverage as well as brightens complexion, evens skin tone (my fave), hydrates & also has sunscreen! 


CETAPHIL OIL CONTROL FOAM WASH: 
I remember I was introduced to Cetaphil by a masseuse in Philadelphia. I ordered it immediately and was surprised at how well it worked. Before this, my skin would get oily.... especially around my period.  But I swear, I rarely see oily skin anymore!  It's definitely been a life-saver in that sense. I've had acne-prone skin most of my life, even at this age, can you believe it? Anyone else with me?  If you have acne, you MUST try this. This foam wash removes makeup really well & never leaves my face dry. Will not stop using this, I'm hooked!

DR. HAUSCHKA CLARIFYING TONER: 
This is the only toner I use everyday. It's a holistic skin care product that helps diminish signs of blemishes, large pores & oily skin. It feels refreshing when sprayed on my face & never feels drying. Its not like some toners that when sprayed on face, your face feels tight, it feels natural and smells nice too!

EARTH SCIENCE  HERBAL TONIC MIST:
The Earth Science Tonic mist is another toner + mositurizer I use off & on.  I tend to spray it after my makeup, for a nice glow.  Most people tend to spray it before makeup...which is fine too. However you use it, I love it! It's also oil-free, which all of the products I use tend to be. I do like that it's Paraben free & has no animal ingredients. I am working on this...for all my daily use products.


SKIN CEUTICALS SUNSCREEN:
This is by far my favorite sunscreen by Skin Ceuticals.  It's in the high price range for sunscreen, but if you just dab on very little, it should last you awhile. It's also paraben-free & carries an SPF protection for the face, not bad huh? I wear this even when there is no sun out - which is most of the time here in NYC. It def provides all-day hydration, which I think is important when choosing a a sunscreen. Have you tried this brand?


- If you're a blogger & would love to be part of this series, email us pics of your FAVE morning beauty facial products & a pic or two of yourself.  If we like what you sent, we will invite you to participate!!!! 

-post by jen ramos


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Beauty: Mascara for Every Lash Type

Hi, I'm Rachel from Life Unsweetened. I'm so excited to share my first post as a MADE BY GIRL beauty contributor. As a beauty-obsessed woman, finding the perfect mascara formula has been a longtime goal of mine. While I haven't quite found "the one", I have found a bunch of different brands and formulas that work for each type of lash.  So whether your lashes are lacking volume or you're searching for a mascara that stays put all day long, here are a few of my personal favorites.

Volumizing- Just as the name says, the L'Oreal Voluminous Mascara is a cult-favorite for a reason. From the classic packaging to the awesome price tag, this product has it all. Years ago, I turned to online mascara reviews to find a solution to my naturally thin lashes, and this formula was a clear winner. I suggest choosing the "Carbon Black" formula- it's truly the darkest shade that provides thick and lush lashes that everyone will envy.

Lengthening- Unless you were born with butterfly lashes (in which case, I envy you), falsies are a solution to add some length. However, applying them every day can be a bit time-consuming and expensive. Benefit's 'They're Real" Mascara gives my lashes the falsie effect- without the eyelash glue and mishaps. Although it's a bit pricier than what you'll find at your local drugstore, the formula lasts long and is worth every penny. I personally love the long brush with a spiked end to coat each and every corner for a doe-eyed look.

Colored- I typically reserve colored mascara for a fun night out or special event, but some ladies prefer to wear it daily. If you're tired of the same makeup routine, colored mascara is an easy way to make your eyes pop. Almay Intense I-Color Volumizing Mascara comes in 4 expertly-crafted shades to enhance the natural color of your eyes. I love the plum shade- it draws attention to my big brown eyes.

Waterproof- Waterproof mascara is a must-have for summer heat, busy days at the office and weddings. Maybelline The Falsies Waterproof Mascara is one of the few waterproof formulas that worked for me. It not only gives your lashes thickness and length, but stays put during a full day at the beach.

Natural- For the ladies who prefer organic beauty products, natural mascara can be tough to spot. My go-to is the tarte lights, camera, lashesô 4-in-1 Mascara. †The olive esters conditions, treats and protects lashes without any harmful chemicals. In addition, I'm in love with the mascara brush and cute packaging. Win- win!



- post by rachel
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Beauty: Holiday Value Sets

Hi again! Kelsey from Kelsey Nicole here. It's the beginning of December, & it's the perfect time to to start thinking about holiday presents. Below are a few value sets that are perfect for a relative, a friend, a coworker, or yourself! See anything you like??




- post by kelsey


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Beauty: B.B. Cream

Hello everyone! So, I have to talk to you about a recent change I made in my makeup application routine: BB Cream!  I've been hearing a lot about it lately, and more & more creams seem to be popping up everywhere I turn.  I decided to give it a try a few months ago & HONESTLY, this stuff is amazing!  I don't even think there's any use for my foundation anymore! I used to buy Laura Mercier or Chanel foundations - and you know those can run anywhere between $50-75 each!

You're probably wondering, what the heck is a BB cream though?? So, it's really a "blemish/beauty balm" and it's supposed to do everything a tinted moisturizer should do, just more I guess. And it does. The one I use is Garnier's Skin Renew Miracle Skin Perfector.  It has full coverage, it's light, & evens out my skin tone perfectly, I don't need to use any additional products! It's super affordable, only $12.99!!! Crazy huh?

I did some Sephora searching & found the best of the best BB Creams. So, here we go!


Do you have a favorite BB Cream, or another product that you absolutely swear by??





- post by jen ramos


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Beauty: Bobbi Brown

Hi readers! Kelsey from Kelsey Nicole here. I spent a good amount of time browsing the Nordstrom beauty department on my Nordstrom app this past rainy weekend and I couldn't help but notice the gorgeous new palettes available. Some are simply eye palettes while some have a little blush and/or lip gloss thrown in. Either way, I want them all. Here are a few available now:


 Have you tried any of these palettes yet??


Old Hollywood Eyeshadow Palette | Smokey - Cool Eyeshadow Palette | Smokey - Warm Eyeshadow Palette | Twilight Pink Lip and Eye Palette | Hot Cocoa Palette [Nordstrom Exclusive]



- post by kelsey


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BEAUTY: Pillow-Proof Your Lips

Hey readers! Kimberly here, while Jen is on vacation, I'm here to show you a few beauty tips! When doing my usual fashion and beauty browsing I noticed that many of the fashion campaigns for Spring 2013 and Fall 2014 had one thing in common: a bold pout. No matter the hue, magazines and design-houses alike were dipping in different paint pots to whip up colorful lip-stains that best complimented the story they wished to tell.

In this beauty minute, I want to help you Pillow-Proof Your Pucker using Gioia Magazine's shoot as inspiration.  Let's explore quick ways to prep your lip & the best shades that compliment your skin tone.





The key to a soft and sweet pucker is to do a quick lip-prepping that will allow for your lipsticks and lip-stains to go on smoothly. The key is to gently exfoliate & then moisturize.

/// Brown Sugar ///  Go for brown sugar for a gentle exfoliation. Brown sugar, as opposed to white sugar, is often used at spas, as the crystals are much smaller and smoother which prevents abrasion to the skin. Brown sugar is also rich in Vitamin B, which helps prevent the skin from sun damage. Brown Sugar is the perfect ingredient for a sweet & soft pucker.

/// Olive Oil ///   Is a great moisturizer that helps repair impurities on the skin as it is rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin E. Olive Oil also seals in the moisture of the skin by creating a barrier that protects the skin.

/// Soft Toothbrush ///   A soft toothbrush or sponge is great for aiding in an even exfoliation creating a smooth and even surface for your lipsticks and lipstains to be applied smoothly to.

 photo PPYP7_zps686f6062.png


It's always tough finding the best lip shade for yourself when you're unsure of which one best compliments your skin complexion. I can admit that walking into a makeup store and being surrounded by so many different colors can be a bit overwhelming. Here's a short and sweet guide to color-coding your next pucker picking. The next time you walk into your local Ulta or Sephora, play with colors in these shades to see which looks best on you! Oh, and don't forget to come well prepped (exfoliate + moisturize) before trying on each one!




Fair ///  Nudes, Coral, Pinks, Apricrot, Red
Medium ///  Berry, Mauve, Rose
Dark ///  Plum, Wine, Brown, Deep Nudes


 
 
all images: Fashion Gone Rogue, Yulia Terentieva Hits the Beach for Gioia Magazine by Alvaro Beamud Cortes




What's in your makeup bag? What's your favorite lipstick?!



-post by kimberly luxe

 
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BEAUTY: SUMMER BEAUTY STAPLES

Hi MadeByGirl readers! Kelsey from Kelsey Nicole here. Today I am here to share with you six beauty products that I have been loving this summer. Let's get to it!


 Garnier Miracle Skin Perfector BB Cream
Due to the high heat, and sometimes often high humidity, I try to keep my makeup light in the summer. This BB cream is perfect for days when you want minimal coverage but don't want to wear foundation.

Essie "Big Spender"
Confession: I am a fan of this Essie shade year-round, but especially in the summertime. It looks great with a variety of skin tones and especially great with tan skin.

Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil Light
The lighter version of Josie's Argan Oil is perfect for daytime wear. I know it is strange to put oil on your face in the morning, but trust me on this one. It absorbs quickly and does not leave an oil finish.

Benefit They're Real! Mascara
Everyone knows this mascara is great. What I didn't know was how great this mascara is at staying on in the water. While it is not waterproof, it surprisingly stays put at the pool or at the beach.

Bumble and Bumble Straight Blow Dry
My hair is naturally curly so it can get quite frizzy when I straighten it on humid days. This serum works wonders and keeps my hair straight through damp weather.

Fresh Sugar Shine Lip Treatment
I love Fresh's Sugar Lip Treatment, so when they came out with the Shine Lip Treatment, I knew I was going to love it as well. I was right and after one try, this gloss became a staple in my beauty routine.


What were some of your favorite beauty products this summer?




- post by kelsey nicole




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Beauty: Lancome

What's your favorite brand of makeup? For me, there are so many, I swear. But a few favorites are Laura Mercier, Chanel, Bobbi Brown, MAC & Lancome. 

Well, the people over at Lancome sent me the most amazing goody bag & of course,  Lancome has always been one of my go-to brands when it comes to beauty.  My faves are the lip glosses & their new perfume called "La Vie Est Belle" - which means "Life is beautiful"  --- smells great by the way!  I'm now going to be giving this scent to my mom for her upcoming birthday. 

So, let me break the down the goody bag: 


The Gloss in Love. This gloss definitely loves the lips, with its shine & long-lasting effect. It totally moisturizes & has a cool click-to-open package. Never seen anything like that! It has a lip hugging applicator which I find to be very ideal - as it truly hugs the lips.  

Juicy Tubes: This is my favorite lip gloss. It offers medium coverage while still providing color. Lips will be ultra-glossy with this tube-tip applicator, so if you like glossy - this is your gloss!



Vernis in Love. My 2 fave colors are 'Noir Caviar' & 'Violette Coquette ' This is a good quality polish,  with fade resistant shine. Great lasting color & shine, that's what I love about it. 


Bi-Facil. Lancome's eye makeup remover was one of the first I ever used.  This particular one activates when shaken and totally removes your eye makeup. It also conditions and refreshes your skin. It leaves the eye feeling refreshed without that oily residue that some removers leave. I hear it's also idea for contact lens wearers. 

Hypnose Drama.  Their mascara rocks. My lashes are instantly longer-looking and dark. I love the volume & drama effect this mascara has. No clumpies or flakeys, that's why it's my fave. 



Which makeup brands do you use?? Is Lancome on your list??





-image by jen ramos


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