Tuesday Tip: Get Organized!

With the New Year coming in a few days I feel like now is the perfect time to clean out old makeup and organize my products. If you can find your makeup easily you are more likely to use it and enjoy using it. So, take time to go through your makeup and toss stuff that is old, or looks gross...remember mascara only lasts about 2 months tops, foundations and lip products have a 2-3 year shelf life. Powder based products last the longest, so use your judgment when looking at them.

Once you've gotten rid of any makeup that shouldn't belong, get organized...use small baskets or boxes in your makeup drawer to organize your makeup. I like to have my blush and powder in a basket, foundation and concealer in one, and eye products in another. I have multiple foundations, blush, and eye shadows, so that works for me. Use cute cups for your brushes, lip gloss and eye and lip pencils...I have 3 cups, one for lip products, one for eye products and one for brushes. So, find a way to make it work with what you have.

If you keep your makeup in a makeup bag think about using a smaller bag within your big bag. And be sure to empty out that big makeup bag so you can empty it of any pencil shavings and eye shadow powder.

Ulta has great makeup containers, so does The Container Store. You can always go to Wal-Mart to find small drawer sets for your countertop, or plastic baskets and tubs. Happy organizing!

Tuesday Tip: Ask Me

I want to blog about things you, my readers, want to hear about! So, what are your makeup and skin care questions? What products are you interested in and want to know more about? You can comment here with your questions or email them to me at summermakeup@gmail.com. In the subject line write makeup. I love to hear from my readers and to write about things you really want to know more about. I look forward to hearing from you!

And the Winner Is....

Congratulations Teri! Please email me the address you want this sent to within 24 hours and your new lipstick and samples will be sent to you! Thanks to everyone for commenting and reading my blog...happy holidays, keep reading!

Shu Uemura No More?!

I have bad news that some of you may have already heard...Shu Uemura, the cosmetic line best known for their oh so amazing eyelash curler (that I mention every chance I can) is not being sold in retail stores in the US anymore. I was in Sephora recently and the salesperson told me they aren't carrying the line in stores as of December. Ulta, Nordstrom, and any other location previously carrying Shu Uemura is in the same boat. I read about this in my Make-Up Artist magazine last month, but must have been in denial. I figured they were pulling the Shu Uemura boutiques, not all of it! Before you panic because you can't run to Ulta and get a lash curler anymore, know that you can still order it and other makeup online directly from the Shu Uemura website. If you become a member you will receive email offers including free samples, and free shipping when spending $50 or more. So, order your lash curlers in bulk, or go in with friends! Other items worth trying in their line are their brushes, eyeshadows and lip products. Thank goodness we can still order online, otherwise many of us (and our lashes) would be in a world of hurt!

Holiday Giveaway

Just a reminder you only have today and tomorrow left to comment so you can be entered to win a Maybelline lipstick from their new Pearls Lipcolor collection. The color is Bronze Beam (correction from Sugared Almond). I'm throwing in a few samples as well...see the original post from last week for more details. I'll announce the winner this Thursday. I hope everyone's holiday season is fabulous!!

Tuesday Tip: Red Lips

The holiday season is the perfect time to do a red lip. Red lipstick goes perfect with a black cocktail dress or a great pair of jeans, pumps and cute top. You can do red lips year round, but there is something about flawless looking skin with a neutral eye and clean eyeliner and red lips during the winter. So here is the thing about red lipstick...you have to try out red lipstick before buying it, which means you can't just go to the drugstore and pick one...it's a disaster waiting to happen, trust me, I've tried!

When buying a red lipstick go to a makeup counter and try a few out, or go somewhere like Ulta or Sephora where you can test them yourself. Know that you'll probably have to try a few before you find the right one. Since lip color, especially red, can change a little as you wear it I suggest when you find one you like you wear it around for awhile. This way you can make sure it doesn't run, turn pink, or orange...and that you like the color on yourself in different light. If you're like me and your lips turn lip color pink go with a brown based red. I can put on brown lipstick and it looks red--really! If your lips turn color more orange or brown go with something more pink based.

Are you a little afraid of bold red lips? Then get a red gloss, it will go on sheer and add a little pop of color. While I love a bold matte red lip, I also like a sheer subtle red.

A few lines to go to for red lipstick: MAC, Nars, Bobbi Brown (for brown or plum reds), Make Up For Ever...let me know any other lines YOU recommend for red lipstick. Remember there is only one more day to comment on a post from this week (12/7-12/15) so you can be entered in the holiday giveaway!

Quick tip: to make sure your red lipstick stays in place line and fill in your lips with a lip pencil. I use neutral lip pencils even with red lipstick, that way it doesn't conflict with the red.

Holiday Giveaway!

I have a new favorite lipstick...Maybelline's Pearls Lipcolor in Sugared Almond to be exact! I love the creamy texture and color SO much that I'm going to give one away to one of you, along with a few samples. Here is how you enter this giveaway:
1. Comment on any of my posts from now until Wednesday, December 15 (that's right, you only have one week). The ONLY way you will be entered is if you have commented.
2. Be sure to check my blog on Thursday, December 16 to see if you are the winner. You will have 24 hours to email me with your information or I'll pick a new winner.

Everyone who comments will be assigned a number in the order they comment and winner will be chosen by random.org

Happy Holidays!!

Tuesday Tip: Necessary Night Cream

Winter is here and my skin is CRAVING moisture, so I'm sure your's is too. During these cold months it is even more important to be moisturizing your skin twice a day. In the morning you need to be using your daytime moisturizer with at least SPF 15. Before you go to bed you need to use a night cream, something richer than your daytime moisturizer that will actually give back moisture to your face. I'm a huge fan of Kiehl's, as you know, and I love their Ultra Facial Cream. This can be used in the day, but is a rich enough formula for night time. Each line has different options for night creams, so you can find one for the stage your skin is at. If you are in your 20's 30's you need to use one that will really moisturize, this will help prevent dehydration lines that make you look older than you are and help prevent the aging process. As you get in your 40's and up you need to be using something that will firm your skin and reduce signs of aging (not that any of you fabulous readers have those signs). You can spend anywhere from $20 to $200 and up on a face cream, so here are a few of the top ones and my favorites.

Oil of Olay Regenerist Cream: This has been compared to top face creams on the market and you can buy it at a drug store. It has a bit of a fragrance, but works well!

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream (and other products): You won't be disappointed with Kiehl's- great products at a great price point.

Creme de La Mer: You have to warm this between your fingertips before applying so it can give it's "soothing" effect. This is a top selling face cream, so if you are willing to spend $100+ it is a superb choice!

Giorgio Armani Crema Nera: A 1.7 ounce jar is $275, but I absolutely love this face cream! It has a different texture than your basic face cream, and during the time I used this I loved the way my skin looked and felt. It is classified as "anti aging" but anyone can use it, after all aren't we all trying to look younger?!

Other lines worth checking out: Neutrogena, Clinique, Lancome, Philosophy and Bliss

Remember, even if you have oily skin you need to moisturize...you must! Many moisturizers and creams on the market are oil free, so look for those.

Tuesday Tip: Smokey Eyes

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Tuesday Tip: Brushes

I have had many readers and clients ask me what brushes are the best ones to buy...so here it is!

Brushes you need for basic everyday makeup:
Foundation Brush (unless you use your fingers or a sponge)
Powder Brush (for powder and bronzer)
Blush Brush
2 Eyeshadow Brushes (one that is densly packed for applying color, one that is fluffier to blend and apply lighter colors with)
Lip Brush (only if you use glosses in pots or want a more sheer look from your lipstick)

Brands:
If you want to invest a good amount of money:
Trish McEvoy (she's known for her brushes)
MAC (lots of choices)
Bobbi Brown (great brushes, two options for handles-long or short)
Giorgio Armani (their blender brush is the BEST foundation brush, the other brushes are comparable to other lines)

If you want a steal:
Ecotools (you can purchase at Walgreens or Ulta, sold individually or in sets and green friendly)
Sephora (you can spend a little or a lot of money here, lots of good options)

The main thing when purchasing brushes is to feel the texture of them...you want a soft brush touching your face everyday, right?! If it feels crunchy put it back on the shelf. While more expensive brushes will last longer, inexpensive ones will do the trick and last if you take care of them. Remember, you don't have to be loyal to one line when it comes to brushes unless you want all of yours to match perfectly, mine are from all different lines!

Tuesday Tip: Fall Into Fall

I'm all about the current season we are in...cooler temperatures, leaves changing colors...and all things pumpkin! I literally go crazy over anything pumkin. Pumpkin candles, colors, pie, bread, cookies, I could go on and on! So, with all of the pumpkin around me I've realized this is the perfect time to integrate golds and red browns into your eye shadows. Now is the perfect time to play up brown shadows and make them glow with gold. Here are a few of my favorite fall eye shadow colors...

Urban Decay's Roach- the perfect red brown, its pigmented, so it gives lots of color!

Smashbox Ambient- a true gold, it shimmers and sparkles! Use on your lid to add a glow, or use under your eyes to brighten and blend eyeliner.

MAC's Amber Lights- The perfect orange brown, this will make blue eyes stand out!

Tuesday Tip: Be Rewarded

Stores often have rewards cards and is important to sign up for one so that you can get coupons, and free products for your birthday or for spending a certain amount of money. Here are three stores you need to have a rewards card to:

Ulta: If you shop at Ulta only twice a year still sign up for the rewards card. It is free to do and you will receive coupons and flyers about new products. The coupons are great, like $3.50 off your purchase of $10 or more, or 20% off of a purchase. You will also be rewarded four times throughout the year based on how much money you've spent there. I've gotten something for free everytime this comes around, anything from a full size lotion or cotton squares, to an Ulta makeup product or OPI nail polish. Carrying that little card with you will make a big difference!

Sephora: Sephora's card is called the "Beauty Insider." Once again, this card is free you simply need to sign up for it. For each dollar you spend you receive a point. At 100 points you will get your choice of a free deluxe sample. You also get a free gift during your birthday month. Last year it was 3 lip glosses (all great colors), this year it was an eye makeup set with a shadow, mascara and liner...this rewards card is oh so worth it! Sephora is also great about looking you up in the system by your email (if you are like me and forget to carry your card with you sometimes).

Sally Beauty Supply: At Sally Beauty their card is called the Beauty Club card. You do have to pay $5.00 to get the card and then $5.00 each year to renew it. You will get coupons and get to use the lower rate on the price tag at their stores once you have it. If you only go there a couple of times a year it probably isn't worth it. I frequent this store for fake lashes, cotton squares, lip brushes and other things for my makeup kit, so I notice the savings. They focus more on hair care and nails, but do have a small makeup section. If you love lashes this store has one of the biggest selections!

Tuesday Tip: Buy Sets

With the holidays coming up every makeup line will be offering gift sets. This is the perfect time to get multiple products or limited edition products for a great price. Makeup lines often create gift sets for department stores, Ulta and Sephora. Here are a few gift sets that look like loads of fun!

Benefit's "Her Name Was Glowla" (at Sephora)This set is full of products that will give you a glow, use them together or individually.





Kiehl's 'World of Kiehl's' Set (at Nordstrom) This is one of my favorite skin care lines, great quality at a great price point.


Clinique's "Double the Kisses Gift" Set (at Dillard's) Three lip shades in a cute pink bag, what could be better?!



There are many more sets out there and many more to come in the next two months, so keep your eyes out for gift sets! You'll get more for your money, or possibly an irresistable and irreplacable limited edition product!

And the Winner of a $15 Gift Card Is....

Congratulations Stacie Thompson! Email me at summermakeup@gmail.com in the next 48 hours to declare which gift card you would like! Also send me your mailing address. Thanks to everyone for following and commenting! Each follower was assigned a number based on the order you appear on my blog as followers and then those who only commented were assigned a number based on when they commented. Numbers were plugged into random.org, results are posted in pictures below.






Keep reading, a holiday giveaway will be here in December!

Last Day To Enter Fall Giveaway

Don't forget, today is the last day to either become a follower or comment on one of my October blog posts so that your name will be entered in the fall giveaway! The winner will get to choose a $15 gift card to Ulta or Sephora. I will announce the winner November 1, so be sure to check Makeup Montage tomorrow!

Tuesday Tip: Fill In Your Brows

Filling in your eyebrows with color is something small that will make a big difference. If you have thin brows or parts of your brows that are thinner than the rest filling in your brows with a little color is an excellent idea. It will give your eyebrows a fullness and polished look. If you have descent brows then you may not need to fill them in everyday, but if you are going for a more dramatic look or going to an event where pictures will be taken, your brows will look cleaner and polished if you fill them in. Here are a few steps:

First only fill in where you have holes or thin hair, you do not need to go over the whole brow, only apply color where needed.

Next, after you apply color go over it with an eyebrow brush or mascara spoolie to soften and blend the color

All lines offer some kind of brow color. You can get an eyebrow pencil or powder. If you have blonde or red hair you need to use a blonde pencil. If you are a brunette use a brown one. If you have very dark or black hair either use a dark brown color or black powder--I do not suggest black pencil on eyebrows.

An awesome brow color product that is super cheap is NYC Browser Brush-on Brow Powder with Grooming Wax and Tweezers. While I don't think the tweezers are worth even trying to use, the brow powder and wax are great!

Tuesday Tip: Marvelous Mascara

Mascara can make such a marvelous difference, especially when you apply it the right way! Be sure to put mascara on your top and lower lashes, don't leave those lower lashes out! I also like to put mascara on the top of the lashes rather than just underneath, this is good to do if you are using a frosty shadow that has gotten on your lashes or have blonde lashes...you want your lashes to be all the same color. If you want to get extra mascara on your lashes, wiggle the wand as you go from the root of the lashes the the ends.

There are SO many mascara options, you are bound to find one that is right for you! While my personal favorite is Loreal Voluminous, there are many products with raving reviews...here are a few worth looking into:

YSL Faux Cils
Dior Show
Maybelline Great Lash
Lancome Mascaras...there are lots to choose from

As far as color goes, if you have blonde or red hair go with a brown or brown black, unless you wear a lot of dark eye makeup, if so go with black. Brunettes should wear brown black or black...personally I want my mascara as dark as I can get it!

Fall Giveaway Reminder

Don't forget about the fall giveaway this month! The winner will receive a $15 gift card to either Ulta or Sephora...all you have to do is become a follower this month or comment on at least one blog post in October. Each person's name will only be entered once. For more details scroll down to the Fall Giveaway post!

Homecoming Makeup

Just two weekends ago was the Homecoming Dance at a local high school. I had so much fun doing makeup for five girls, each with a different look to match their personality and style! Homecoming this year was all about fabulous cocktail dresses, side updos, spiral curls and flawless makeup with a little drama mixed in for fun. Thanks girls for sharing your pictures and letting me be a part of your day!

Tuesday Tip: Find Fabulous Fakes

Fake what? Lashes! I love what fake, or false lashes do to people's eye makeup for events and pictures. I use false lashes on 90% of my brides and about 95% of my clients when I do their makeup for events. Here are a few tips when purchasing and using false eyelashes so that you can have fabulous results!

What brand to buy:
My favorite is Ardell, it can be found at Sally's Beauty Supply and Ulta. These lashes are also sold in the pro makeup stores I shop at in LA like Nigel Beauty Emporium and Frends Beauty Supply (so they are what makeup artists use most often). They are affordable and look great.

If you want to invest more money go to MAC or Shu Umuera.

What glue to use:
Either Duo or Lash Grip, always go with the dark tone, it will dry and look like black eyeliner. Both of these are waterproof which means if you cry they will stay on.

How to apply:
After you have applyed eyeshadow, curled your lashes and put on one coat of mascara it is time for lashes!
First lay the lash on your lashline (without glue) to see how much you should trim off the ends. Some people will not need to trim the ends (outer sides) of the lashes, other people with smaller eyes will need to. This will help the lash better fit your eye shape.
Next apply a thin line of glue to the lashline. Let it sit about 10 seconds before applying it to your lashline so it can get tacky (this will help it stick on easier). I have found that when applying lashes to myself it is easier to look down into a mirror that is laying flat on my counter rather than looking into a mirror on the wall.
After applying both lashes go over your lashline with a liquid liner, gel liner, or cake liner to create a clean line so that your eye makeup looks finished. Then apply a little bit of mascara to the ends of the fake lashes to blend them with your own...you are ready to go!

How to Remove:
Simply peel off the false lashes when you are ready to remove them. They really only last a day or evening, I have a few clients who have worn them 2 days...it's up to you. Once you remove, eye makeup remover will take off the glue that is left over.

You can usually reuse lashes 1 or 2 more times after you have worn them once.

*Most popular Ardell lashes in my kit: #109, #124, #110







Happy blinking and winking!

Pretty In Pink

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so this is the perfect time to find a pink inspired beauty product and you can know that your money is going towards a good cause. Below are a few products I have discovered that are worth sharing!


Bobbi Brown's Shimmer Bricks are one of my favorite products, and this month they have a limited edition Pink Ribbon Shimmer Brick. From the looks of it and the reviews it will give your skin a gorgeous glow just like the other Shimmer Bricks.




I love Philosophy's products, it is a simple line and once you try one product you will definitely want another. My first and probably favorite product from this line is a fragrance, Falling In Love...the name alone drew me in and the fact that it smells like cotton candy has kept me wearing it! This month they have a new bath and shower gel called Shower for the Cure.




I don't wear a lot of Shiseido, but sometimes they suprise me, like right now with this too cute to be true pink lip gloss! Remember with brighter tones lip gloss is the perfect way to brighten because it goes on more sheer than a lipstick.



I'm obsessed with Michael Kors watches and purses and also love his fragrance Very Hollywood. This month he has a travel size roll on fragrance and lip gloss (coral) duo. Perfect for travel or touch up at the end of the work day. I will definitely be getting this!



This is just a glimpse of what is out there right now in the beauty world, check out In Style's website to see 39 products created for Breast Cancer Awareness month...everything from clothing and accessories to beauty and home. Enjoy all things pink!

Tuesday Tip: Know Your Ingredients

Have you ever been that person in a picture with a super white face when you know you looked normal in real life? Or, if you haven't been that person I'm sure you've seen that person in a photo...well, you no longer have to look like a ghost in pictures as long as you know a few ingredients to avoid.

When buying foundation, concealer and/or powder look at the ingredients, if the product has titanium dioxide, mica or zinc listed as one of the first ingredients it is time to set that product down and find a new one. Those three ingredients alone or together reflect light and cause you to look white in photos. They are often found in products with sunscreen or used as cheap fillers. If you see one of these ingredients listed at the end of a list of ingredients or it comes after the words "may contain..." you should be fine since they are not the dominant ingredients.

It is only in foundation, powder and concealer that you need to avoid those ingredients. If they are in your eye shadow or blush you are perfectly fine.

So, from now on it should be only your teeth looking white in pictures, not your face!

Fall Giveaway

I want to thank my fabulous readers by doing a fall giveaway! The weather is changing which means it's time to go out and find a new product for fall, so I am going to give the winner of this giveaway a $15 gift card to either Sephora or Ulta...it will be the winner's choice!

To enter either become a follower of my blog, or comment on at least one of my blog posts in October (make sure your post is not anonymous so that I know your name for the giveaway). The winner will be announced on November 1!

*Winner will be chosen by random.org

Tuesday Tip: Ban Blemishes

Why is it that blemishes always appear the week of an important event?! I mean no one ever wants a zit on their face, but they are slightly more tolerable when there isn't something important going on. So, here is a product I recommend to brides because there usually is one blemish that decides to show up the week before the wedding. Apply Neutrogena's Rapid Clear Sore Pimple Gel to your blemish, and overnight, or within 8 hours as the product says, your blemish will fade away. I'm not promising it will completely disappear, but it will definitely begin to fade away so that your concealer actually stands a chance to cover the remains of it!

Have you tried this or another similar product? Comment about it!

Tuesday Tip: Be Bold

For fall this year do something bold with your look. Whether it's dark nail polish, bold red lips, a gel or liquid liner or a new hair color and style. Do something different, for the season or just for a day...new season new look!

I loved Rhianna's red lips and subtle shimmer with liquid liner on her eyes at the VMA's this year!



Demi Moore sporting short, dark nails and fabulous dark hair.

Wedding Makeup

Wedding makeup is always so fun for me to do, I always enjoy making brides beautiful on their big day! Check out this image and others, from the most recent bride I did makeup for, Lauren, at her photographer's blog http://chelseabeckphotography.com/blog/ Chelsea Beck is a wonderful photographer with an exceptional eye for detail!

On the bride, I used...
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer (a must before makeup!)
Smashbox Photofinish
Make Up For Ever foundation, concealer and powder (all waterproof and long wear)
Nars Blush
Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick
Make Up For Ever and Giorgio Armani Eye Shadow to create a classic smokey look
Bobbi Brown Gel Liner (water resistant)
Loreal Mascara (waterproof)
For lip color I did a mauve lip with a shimmer to it and gloss

Five Fall Favorites

I love fall...the weather cools down, fashions change and new makeup trends and products emerge. Here are five things I'm loving about fall right now!

1. Essie's fall nail polish collection. They have a wide variety of colors from soft pastels to bold dark shades like my personal favorite- Little Brown Dress. For those of you that are obsessed with dark nail polish like me, it will be love at first sight!



2. Bobbi Brown's Denim and Rose Collection. It's fall, so what's better than a great pair of jeans and a new shadow and liner to match? The lipstick colors are also rocking in this collection, they're dark but sheer so they aren't overwhelming.



3. The fact that Loreal's Telescopic Mascara now comes in waterproof! This may not be new for fall, but it was new to me last week when I discovered it at Ulta! I'm loving the definition and control the mascara wand allows me to have, the only drawback is it takes a little extra time to apply, which isn't always an option before work in the morning! I may just stick to my all time favorite, Loreal Voluminous.



4. I am loving that my Elle September edition is an inch thick, full of fashion, makeup ads and information...it will take me all fall to read it, so fun!



5. Maybelline's new gel liner. This gel liner goes for about $7 verses Bobbi Brown and MAC's price of about $20, and it comes with a brush. I purchased this product last week at my local grocery store and I'm loving it! It is just as great of quality as MAC or Bobbi Brown. I am loving the eggplant shade, and it really does stay on all day!

Tuesday Tip: Make Your Eyes Stand Out

If eyes are the window to the soul, you might as well make them stand out! Many readers have asked what color of eye shadow to wear based on their eye color so that their eyes look the best they can. For everyday wear I believe you want people to notice your eyes, not your eye shadow...save the drama for your evening look. These shades are based on what color is opposite of your eye color on the color wheel (yes there is a science to it!)

If you have blue eyes: Go for peach, gold tones and orange browns to make your blue eyes stand out. You can also use gray and light shimmery tones to make your blue eyes sparkle. Plums also make blue eyes more noticable.

If you have green eyes: Go for plum tones and smokey greens to make your eyes stand out. Golds and red browns are also great colors on green eyes.

If you have brown eyes: You can do anything and be dramatic without it being too over the top since your eyes are darker already! Exciting news, right? My suggestion for everyday wear is to find a great brown and mix in a gold or bronze tone. Sometimes people get in a brown eye shadow rut, and you can easily get out of it with a little shimmer added to the mix. Brown eyes also should invest in a great plum shade.

Anyone can do a smokey eye...the intensity level of it should match your eye, hair and skin color (i.e. darker skin hair and eyes go more dramatic, lighter hair eyes and skin go softer).

Remember, these are proven ways to make your eyes stand out, not rules you need to live by everyday...still take time to be creative and try new and unexpected shades!

Print Perfection

I'm currently obsessing over the cover on my latest Make-Up Artist Magazine...



...and why shouldn't I? The print industry is my favorite because when all comes together, and the photographer captures the model as her makeup and hair are perfect along with lighting that will take the onlooker's breath away it is a truly perfect moment. Print is art and this image with makeup by Nelly Recchia, is just that. Nelly is an artist from France now working in LA and she also teaches airbrushing classes at Cinema Makeup School, one of the makeup schools I attended....how cool, right?! I didn't train under her, but I did train with another fabulous artist from France, Mireille Bertrand. It is always exciting to see what artists who are on the cutting edge come up with...and this cover is just that.

Tuesday Tip: Makeup Counter Etiquette

When getting your makeup done for an event my first suggestion would be to hire a freelance makeup artist who will come on location to you like I do. I realize there are not freelance artists everywhere, so if you can't find one who is available or they are out of your price range then going to the makeup counter is an option. Since I worked at a makeup counter for more than a year I have a few tips to share so that you leave pleased and the makeup artist's time is well spent.

1. Choose a makeup line you like and a line where the artists makeup looks like you would want yours to look...when I worked at the Giorgio Armani counter I had a lot of clients come to me because they liked how I did my own makeup...I mean let's be serious, if someone can't do their own makeup well should you trust them to do your's?!

2. Make an appointment in advance (either call ahead or do this in person). I would ask for an experienced artist, or describe the look you are going for and ask who they recommend for you. Remember, malls are busy on weekends and makeup counters will be swamped if there is a high school dance in the area, and we all know they fall on the same 2 or 3 weekends! If you don't have an appointment you may not get the attention you are wanting, and deserve, or you may be turned away and end up at a not so great counter.

3. Show up for your appointment on time and voice your opinion before and during the makeup application. If its not looking how you want it, it is better to speak up earlier rather than later.

4. Plan to purchase 3 items when your makeup application is complete. It can be items the artist used on you that day, or a refill on a favorite item you use. Items that will be useful for you to purchase are lip products, pressed powder, and blush (these are all items you will probably want to touch up with). Makeup applications at counters are free of charge, but you are expected to purchase a few items since the artist does have a sales goal to meet, so in the end you'll probably spend around $50.

If you are a bride getting your makeup done at a counter be sure to book a consultation before the day of your wedding. You can go over the exact look you want on the day of and be sure to request the same artist on the day of the wedding if you like them.

Remember to have fun when you're getting your makeup done, it's always nice to have someone else help make you look fabulous!

Everything You Need To Know About Concealer

Concealer is a small thing that makes a huge difference! Since I've had a few readers ask me about it I've decided to share my favorite brands and what you should look for when purchasing one here. A little concealer can cover those unwanted blemishes, cancel out redness or darkness under your eyes, and brighten your skin. If you don't use concealer I hope that this will inspire you to find one!

First, when looking for a concealer decide what your main goal is. Are you wanting to hide dark circles under your eyes, or to cover blemishes? There are two different types of concealers, so you need to get the one that will solve your main beauty delima, and then know that the one you buy can work anywhere on your face. For example if you only have an under eye concealer and a blemish shows up one day you can still use that concealer on it, and it works the other way around.

If you are looking to cover dark circles under your eyes and some redness on your face go with a creamy/liquid consistency of concealer like Trish McEvoy Correct and Brighten. I love this product, it was my lifesaver last winter when my eyes were looking dark and tired thanks to being in my mid-twenties and artic temperatures! Once I added this little treasure to my makeup collection my skin looked brighter and more even. It is limited in colors, and mine exploded last week so I'm feeling a little betrayed by Trish, but I'll get over it and will soon buy a new one! The Flawless Concealer in Trish McEvoy's line has more color options if you want to stick to that line. Two other under eye concealers that work great are: MAC Select Cover-Up or Giorgio Armani High Precision Retouch. By having a liquid or creamy consistency you will not dry out your eye area.



If you are wanting to cover blemishes go with a thick concealer that has a pancake consistency (something that is solid and packed into a container). By using a thick consistency it will stay in place and adhere to the blemishes you are trying to cover so that they stay covered. Try Make Up For Ever Camouflage Cream.



A few extra tips: Remember less is more...the more concealer you cake on the more obvious your imperfections are. Take a minimalist approach and add more as needed.

Make sure your concealer matches your skin, it needs to blend in, not be lighter or darker. If you can't find one to match perfectly, go with the one that is barely lighter.

You can apply concealer with a synthetic brush or your fingers, it's up to you.

When applying concealer under your eyes bring the concealer out to the far corners of your eyes and also apply a little on the inner corners of your eyes to brighten the shadows that can happen where your nose bridge is.

Remember to use concealer after foundation- it will stay in place better and you will use less because your foundation does cover quite a bit.

In addition to concealer you can use a color corrector to cancel out discoloration on your skin. I will share more about this in a later blog.

Have fun finding a concealer, once you get a great one and see the magic that can happen with it you'll be hooked...I promise!

Tuesday Tip: Line Your Lips

Using a lip liner will make your lipstick or gloss last longer. When choosing a lip liner get one that matches your natural lip color like MAC's Whirl or Subculture. By doing this you can use one lip liner with different lipstick colors. Also, using a color that matches your lips makes it easier to line a little outside of your lips to make them appear fuller.

When you line your lips, line and then fill them in with the lip liner. This will do two things: make your lip color stay in place longer, and keep you from having an outline of lip liner around your lips...blending is key!

Tuesday Tip: Make Your Eyeshadow Pop

The general rule with eyeshadows is that the more money you invest in them the more pigmented they will be, meaning they have more color. Lines like MAC, Stila, Make Up For Ever and Nars are known for their bold colors that have great textures. If you want to make an eyeshadow stand out like those that you bought for less money here are tricks to make the color pop. Try one or all of these to see which one works best for you. You can also use these tricks with your pigmented shadows for extra drama, and who doesn't love a little drama?!

- Use an eyeshadow base like MAC Bare Canvas(it comes in a squeeze tube)

- Use a cream eyeshadow underneath your powder eyeshadow like Revlon Illuminance Cream Shadow (use a neutral color so it doesn't conflict with your eyeshadow)

- Apply concealer on your eyelid before applying eyeshadow

By applying a cream base to your lid it allows the eyeshadow to stick on to something...try one of these tricks and see the difference!

Makeup Shopping

I met a friend for dinner tonight and we decided to stop by the mall since I needed more Bobbi Brown Gel Liner (in Espresso of course) and she needed more Lancome mascara. Well, two items quickly turned into multiple items. I left the mall with my gel liner, a new Nars blush because I love their colors, and Caudalie Beauty Elixir. Caudalie is a great skin care line, and the Beauty Elixir can be applied before or after makeup to add radiance to skin, I plan to keep it in my purse to spritz on when I need a pick me up. This is sold in the bins by the registers at Sephora, and at $16 it's worth a try. I asked for a sample of Philosophy's Hope in a Jar before I left because who hasn't heard great reviews about it for years, so I'm trying it out and if it's worth your time I will let you know. If you are out shopping this weekend think about trying out a new blush to add a pop of color, finding a new skin care product, or simply asking for a sample of something you have been interested in so you can find out if you actually like it.

Tuesday Tip: Use an Eye Makeup Remover

If you wear eye makeup, even if it isn't waterproof, you still need to use an eye makeup remover. It is best to use a cotton ball or square with the eye makeup remover rather than a tissue. There is nothing worse to me than seeing someone with day old black eyeliner and mascara under their eyes. Not to mention that the eye area is more sensitive than the rest of your face due to the skin being thinner. So, using an eye makeup remover ensures you will not have any remnants of yesterday's makeup and it allows you to remove makeup easily without extra wear and tear on your eye area. Practically every makeup line has an eye makeup remover, and I have tried A LOT of them. When I was first gathering products for my makeup kit I spent probably an hour at Sephora with my hands covered in waterproof mascaras and liners to test multiple eye makeup removers. The $20+ eye makeup remover I found that day does not compare to my favorite for the past few years, Neutrogena's Oil Free Eye Makeup Remover.

If you aren't a fan of liquid eye makeup removers, or need a product that is easy to travel with try Almay's Oil Free Eye Makeup Remover Pads.


You can find both of these products at your local drug store or one of my favorite stores, Ulta.

Favorite Foundations

I think that one of the most frequent questions I'm asked is, "what kind of foundation do you use?" So, here are the foundations I use on myself and my clients. They make your skin look flawless and stay put...because after all, who has time for constant touch ups?

Make Up For Ever Face and Body Liquid Foundation



Make Up For Ever is sold at Sephora and is a fabulous line out of Paris. This is a professional line with quite the following, and the reason is the products really do what they say they will. This is a light to medium coverage foundation that I apply with a wedge sponge. I use this on all my brides because it is waterproof, so I've seen it last through tears, heat, and lots of humidity. The two colors I use the most are #20 and #34.

Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation

Having worked for Giorgio Armani Cosmetics I've seen the results of this foundation on many different skin types. The colors in this specific foundation have a beige undertone which allows them to blend well on skin tones. The foundation creates flawless looking skin because of its "microfil technology." It gives light to medium coverage. The trick to using foundation is to purchase the Giorgio Armani blender brush, it is the only foundation brush that will truly blend in foundation so that it appears airbrushed. My only complaint with this foundation is that it tends to shift on me, mostly in heat, so I only wear this during the winter when my skin needs more of a luminous glow.

Giorgio Armani Lasting Silk UV Foundation SPF 20

I feel like this foundation is a step up from the Luminous Silk Foundation. It has UV and SPF protection. It also stays in place due to the matte finish it creates. I love the coverage and staying power, the colors weren't my favorite at first but have grown on me. This foundation gives medium coverage and still makes skin look flawless when applied with the blender brush. Its a foundation I can wear all day during all seasons.



Remember, before you invest in a foundation, no matter what brand, try it out. Have a makeup artist at the store match your color and wear it all day and in different light to be sure you like it. You will see how well it lasts on your skin and if you like the color even when you are in your car in the sun rather than under lights at a makeup counter. Happy foundation shopping, if you try one of these out let me know what you think!

Tuesday Tip: Find a Terrific Top Coat

I love painting my nails and use all different brands of nail polish because I have found that even the cheap nail polishes stay in place with the right top coat. So, while I'm a fan of OPI and Essie I'm also a fan of NYC and Wet N Wild. My favorite top coat is Sally Hansen Insta-Dri-Anti-Chip Top Coat. It actually makes my nail polish last, and it dries in 30 seconds...even better!

You can find it in your local Ulta, Walmart, or Target, or here on Amazon.

Who Needs Sleep When There's Makeup?

Apparently sleep is overrated, but looking great never is...so when I don't sleep through the night, I have a few tricks that help save my tired looking face in the morning and they can help you too. First, wash your face with cold water to help swollen looking eyes. Next, moisturize and apply makeup like normal, but when it comes to your eyes do one of two things: use a white or blue eyeliner pencil on your inner rim (this is in addition to your regular eyeliner and mascara). If you use white eyeliner on your inner rim it will brighten your eyes by making the whites of your eyes look bigger- this is also a trick to help smaller eyes look bigger. If you have a lot of redness use the blue eyeliner on your inner rim because it will counteract the red. These little changes in eyeliner make a difference. This trick has worked a handful of times on myself and also models and brides who need a little extra help from missing their beauty sleep the night before a photoshoot or big event.

Try Prestige's Classic Khol Eyeliner in E-30 White


Or Prestige's Classic Khol Eyeliner in E-20 Midnight



Prestige Cosmetics can be purchased at Ulta Beauty

Tuesday Tip: Curl Your Lashes

If you take time to put on mascara then you should take time to curl your eyelashes. I find that it makes such a difference, especially if you are not happy with your lash length, volume, or eye shape. Curling your lashes helps lift your eyes, and helps give the illusion of more lashes because it makes the lashes not normally noticed more visible.

When to curl lashes: After you have done your shadow and eye liner, but before you apply mascara.

How to curl: Use the eyelash curler by clamping down on your lashes once...don't pump the eyelash curler, there is no need. By clamping once and holding it down a few seconds you will see results, if you want a more dramatic curl clamp down one more time and hold. Repeat this for the other side.

What eyelash curler to use: Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler



This is a $19 product, but it is well worth it. Every makeup artist I know says it is their favorite, and anyone I've met who owns it or has just bought one LOVES it. When I use it on myself with enough mascara I've had people ask me if my lashes are fake. I have wasted time and money on eyelash curlers that didn't do much, so once I found this product I was hooked. The shape of the curler allows you to get close to your eye, the silicone pad in it and the design apply enough pressure so that a curl is created that will hold. Shu Uemura is known for their eyelash curler, and while they have a number of quality products this is what people return to them for the most. You can find it at Sephora, Ulta, Nordstrom or on Amazon.

Lip Gloss You Can Love and Afford to Lose

If you're like me you are always losing your lip gloss only to find it a week later in the floor of your car, in a random side pocket of a purse you forgot existed, or outside a friend's house in the street (that really happened to me once). So, I've quit investing a lot of money in lip gloss because I'm bound to lose it and who knows how long it will take for it to turn up and if it will! My latest cheap find is Wet N Wild Megaslicks Lip Gloss. My favorite color is 570A (Berry Burst). It is a great peach tone that brightens lipstick or liner, and can also be worn alone. This is a color that will look good on all skin tones, it has a slight shimmer, but does not look frosty. I also love the texture of this gloss. It isn't super sticky, which I hate, but it is sticky enough to stay in place. There are a wide variety of colors, so look for this product the next time you are at the drug store. At $1.99 you'll love this lip gloss and can afford to lose it!

Tuesday Tip: How to Make Eyeliner on Your Inner Rim Last

When lining your inner rim (water line) do one of two things to make it last longer:
1. Use an eyeliner brush to apply powder to your inner rim to help dry the area, then use your eye pencil to line. The powder allows the pencil to apply and stay on better.
2. Use a water resistent gel liner on your inner rim. I find that these stay in place all day or evening. MAC and Bobbi Brown have amazing gel liners!

MAC Fluidline Eye Liner Gel Blacktrack (Black)


Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner

My favorite Bobbi Brown color is Espresso (dark brown)

Glowing Skin Every Day

I visited my good friend Kara last fall in New York City. We went to the original Bliss Spa in Soho one morning for facials, and for the record it was one of the best facials I've ever had. If you ever have a chance to use Bliss products or visit their spa I highly recommend it. The spa was fun and relaxing and their products are quality, reasonably priced, and of course fun! After our spa excursion we were off to brunch in Soho with one of her friends Jeremy. After a few minutes of conversation and placing our orders with the waiter, Jeremy mentioned that our skin was glowing. He kind of stared at us for a minute and turned to me and asked if it was the Oklahoma humidity causing the gorgeous glow. Kara and I burst into laughter and explained how we had facials earlier that morning. While we can't all live in southern humidity or visit Bliss Spa everyday, there are a few products that can create that fabulous glow.

Benefit High Beam- apply to cheekbone on top of foundation and set with a loose powder


Armani Fluid Sheer- you can mix these with your foundation for an all over glow or apply to your cheekbones and forehead for more of a highlight. These come in a wide range of colors which allows you to choose what works best for your skin tone or the time of year. Also set with a lightweight loose powder.


Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick- apply at the end of makeup application on top of powder to cheek bones, you can use on your forehead and nose for an extra glow. These are great and come in a variety of colors, I use my gold toned one on all of my brides!

Tuesday Tip: Moisturize

Always apply moisturizer before you put on your base-whether it's foundation, concealer or powder. If you do not already do this you will be amazed at how much better your makeup goes on and looks. Be sure to use a lightweight moisturizer with SPF of at least 15. One moisturizer I love is Neutrogena Healthy Defense SPF 30 Daily Moisturizer for year round use during the day.

Visit Neutrogena's website to learn more about the different products they have to offer. http://www.neutrogena.com/econsumer/ntg/index.view

International Makeup Artist Tradeshow

I had the opportunity to attend the IMATS in Pasadena, California last month with a friend of mine and fellow makeup artist, Courtney. I was thrilled to be in sunny LA to check out the latest products and techniques. We spent two days going to seminars led by top makeup artists and walked the tradeshow floor multiple times to be sure we had bought every item on our lists and more! One memorable moment at the IMATS was attending a seminar led by Dany Sanz the founder and creator of one of my favorite lines, Make Up For Ever. She created a fabulous avante garde look on her model and led us through the steps and products she used. I had the pleasure of meeting her at the end of the day and found myself almost speechless in the midst of someone so creative and accomplished.

Maintaining Order With Your Makeup

According to my mom, when I was three years old she would perch me on her counter in her bathroom and I would hand over her makeup in the correct order that she applied it. Even at a young age I couldn't resist makeup, and knew the importance of applying it in order so that it would last all day...well maybe I didn't know that much, but I at least knew I was interested in the products. The order that you apply your makeup is important so that it will stay in place and last throughout the day or evening. See the list below to know what to apply first through last. You probably do not use all the items on the list, so just look for the products you use and apply the list to your makeup bag.
1. Moisturizer and lip balm
2. Foundation Primer
3. Foundation
4. Concealer (I find that it stays better if you do it after foundation)
5. Cream/mousse blush and any liquid/cream bronzers or highlighters
6. Powder (loose or pressed)
7. Powder blush
8. Eye shadow primer
9. Eye shadow
10. Eye liner
11. Curl lashes
12. Mascara
13. Any powder bronzers or highlighters
14. Lipliner
15. Lipstick
16. Lip gloss