Monday, January 17, 2011

Making up your Character...xo

When an actress goes into character for a film...the dialogue changes, her outfits, her persona...as well as her makeup.  In order to truly become that character, makeup is a key element in creating the character!

So lets talk about our character.  We are not acting film everyday, no one is writing our dialogue for us...but we all, have a character!  Our personality...something that no one can touch.  Something that some are afraid to embrace.  Something that no matter what we are going through in life, where we end up...we own it. 

I am a firm believer in embracing your character!  Not being afraid to let yourself shine...whether you are a tinted moisturizer and chapstick wearer, or a false lash, neon lipstick or glitter wearer!  It's up to you to truly own it, and make it you!

Now I am going to discuss actual film characters.  My goal in this blog, is to tap into what products are used to create that certain character, as far as makeup...and how certain products can create a mood, and a feel!

The Look of Love!

Rachel McAdams in the Notebook was in love.  If you look closely at her makeup in the film...it truly represents, being in love!  A simple innocent dewy sheen on the skin, a touch of mascara and the most important product of all...that natural flush on her cheeks and lips, that create the look of natural blushing!

In this movie still, her character is happy, in love and comfortable in her own skin!  Notice the minimal makeup, with just a natural warm flush on the cheeks and on the lips!  Being in love should look, and feel this natural!

To get that same, natural blushing look...try Benefit Benetint lip & Cheek Stain.  This product comes in a couple different shades, but the best to me, is the original.  This will give you the perfect, glowing rose flush that will stay put for hours!
Benefit Benetint Lip & Cheek Stain $28 sephora.com


Bold expression, making a statement!

Sienna Miller, portraying Edie Sedgwick in Factory Girl gave me the chills.  She really became Edie.  Edie was a lover of makeup, whether or not she was hiding in it or not, it does not matter.  It was her look and she owned it.  From the full brows, to the beauty mark, extreme eye makeup and lashes...she had her own thing going on.  I loved the makeup in Factory Girl...this was true character makeup!

Edie's Character in the movie, lived a privileged upbringing.  She came from a very wealthy family, then made her own way in New York as a model and muse of Andy Warhol.  The more she came into herself, the more unique her look became.  She was, and forever will be an icon.  The lashes, that hair, the black tights and huge earrings...that was Edie!

Wet N' Wild Liquid Liner $3 Drugstore
To get that Edie look, the icon look, try Wet and Wild Liquid Eyeliner!  The point is pure perfection when applying, making any look simple.  Smudge proof and makes a statement! ps. Ive used the brown to create the perfect beauty mark!



Creating the feel of the Character...

One of my new favorite film's, the Black Swan!  The character of Nina played by Natalie Portman was exquisite!  Such a very dark film, yet so beautiful...from the lighting, to the costumes, the music and of course, the makeup!

While playing the White Swan, Nina's character is beautiful, yet timid, nervous and very fragile.  She has the constant look of fear in her eyes.  Her makeup is very pale, slightly dewy and actually creates a fragile feel. 

Pale skin, supple, glowing...very pure and innocent.  She has a doll like look.  Very ethereal, and untouchable.

To create the look of purity and innocence, with an ethereal glow - such as Nina as the White Swan...try MAC Creme Colour Base in Luna!  Tap onto the cheekbones, brow bones, bridge of nose, bow of lip, temples...even the collar bones.  This has the perfect amount of sheen that will look amazing in all light.  Most importantly, keep the rest of the makeup simple...a little brow pencil, dark brown mascara, and a lip balm.  The overall look is simple, and stunning!

Nina as the Black Swan...

As Nina's character is slowly tapping into her darker side, and losing herself...her makeup changes.  But not just the makeup that is changing, so is her personality.  It changes her! 

From the bold pale skin, to the dark exaggerated eye makeup and red lip...this is extreme character makeup all the way.  I have done makeup for films, and you can literally feel the actress or actor change as they sit in the makeup chair.  This is a vital part of the process. 

To create the look of any bold eye makeup style, the key is using a cream or gel eyeliner with a brush.  This allows you to freely express your creativity, with no boundaries. I am a big fan of Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Liner in Black.  This also comes with a brush, and is completely smudge proof!  Amazing!


When using a gel, or cream liner...be sure to keep the lid on and tight, when not using.  These products has a tendency to dry out if the lid is not properly on.  You also want to wash the brush after every use.  Baby or makeup wipes are a great quick way clean! 


So there you go!  Whether you're an actress, or not...finding your own style, and creating your character (and i say that meaning by truly expressing who you are, being you) the key is having fun, keeping an open mind and finding inspiration in different areas.  Not just fashion magazines, or actresses and celebrities, because that it simple...but music, places, your mood.  If you love glitter or bright red lipstick, wear it proudly...being you're character is all that truly matters.

Another fabulous process I have found, is stripping it all away.  Washing off the makeup, letting your true skin shine.  A lot of us have a hard time doing this...but to truly find one's character, you must first be comfortable in your own skin - because it is beautiful!

Bjork - Venus as a Boy, from the Album Family Tree

A beautiful song from an artist who is not afraid to embrace her character. 
Love!

xo




Saturday, January 8, 2011

The dreaded winter cold, and what products to use to get you through it...

Ok, so I am writing this from the comfort of my own bed, just me, my dog Penny.....and yes, an awful cold that I am desperately trying to beat! 

While the effects of a cold wear your body down, it also wreaks havoc on your skin!  I am currently inspired by my being sick, not being able to get a good nights rest..and the tons of other people I know, and do not know, that are dealing with the same sickness. 

Here are a few products that I am currently using, and the only products I will be using until I am healthy....

*For those chapped lips:


As soon as the cold weather hits, your lips can also take a hit.  When I came down with this terrible cold, Chapstick didn't work, Rosebud Lip Salve didn't work..then I tried Neosporin Lip Health Lip Balm.  This will not only deliver moisture like most lip balms do, this will also heal your parched lips.  Check out the Neosporin Overnight Treatment as well, for extra support!

NEOSPORIN LIP HEALTH LIP BALM $5.49 (Drugstore)
                     

* For that parched skin:
DHC Skincare Olive Essentials Mini Set $17.50
www.dhccare.com


Now, this a product that I stumbled upon years ago, and it literally transformed my skin!  DHC Skincare Olive Essentials Mini Set.  There is nothing like this set for the most dry of skin, especially during a cold.  The Cleansing Oil leaves your skin supple, and clean - without stripping your skin of what it needs.  But what really does it, is the Extra Virgin Olive Oil.  Wash with the Cleansing Oil, and follow with the Extra Virgin Olive Oil (take just a drop on clean hands to warm, and gently press into the skin, day and night).  I would hold off on the toner and mild soap that it comes with for now, but they are fantastic as well.  I did not experience any break outs with this set, and it leaves my parched skin soft, supple and baby smooth.

(If you are in desperate need of some serious skin intervention, try using the everyday olive oil, just make sure that it is Extra Virgin)

* For those all important bubble baths:


California Baby is actually a line for babies!  But with the way your skin reacts to being sick, using something gentle is key.  California Baby "Colds & Flu" Aromatherapy Bubble Bath contains Eucalyptus and Douglas Fir, which will aid in helping break up congestion and has an overall calming effect.  Try the spritz as well!  There is nothing like a relaxing bubble bath when you're not feeling so hot...

California Baby "Colds & Flu" Aromatherapy Bubble Bath $13.99  (Target/target.com/health food stores)



Lastly, to nourish your dry skin, again - I recommend Yes to Carrots Delishishly Rich Body Butter!  Rich, creamy, nourishing...use this day and night to keep your skin feeling, and looking it's best.

YES TO CARROTS DELISHISHLY RICH BODY BUTTER
$12.99 (Target/CVS)

I hope this helps!  Now, I am going do the two most important things that one can do, especially when sick....drink a big glass of water, and get some sleep!

Here is one of my favorite song's that will soothe the soul, and help put you to sleep.....


Goodnight loves...

xo








Thursday, January 6, 2011

A fresh new look for the fresh new year...

Now that all of the holiday parties, and stress of the holidays are over...the effects of the season can definitely show in your skin.  Strip away the stress and start off the new year with a fresh new and simple look!

Here are a few of my favorite products to get you started off 2011 glowing, fresh and feeling amazing!
Laura Mercier Tinted Illuminating Moisturizer $42


While this product is pricey, this has become a staple in my makeup wardrobe.  It leaves your skin fresh, moisturized and glowing with the perfect amount of dewy finish.  Love!
  
Physicians Formula Happy Booster Glow and Mood Boosting Blush $11.95


Physician's Formula Happy Booster Glow and Mood Boosting Blush, literally lives up to it's name!  With natural plant extracts that promote feelings of happiness, and a violet scent that instantly puts a smile on my face... and who can pass up the adorable hearts, this will become a classic in my makeup kit!  This also comes in a few different shades to work with any skin tone.  Cheers!

Bare Escentuals BareMinerals Glimmer in Queen Phyllis $13



 If there is one shadow, that everyone care wear, with anything..anywhere, anytime....it is for sure Bare Escentuals BareMinerals Glimmer in Queen Phyllis!  The perfect combination of icy gold, and illuminating champange...this is a must have!  A little on the inner corners of your eyes, in the center of your eyelid...even on cheekbones...you will instantly look more awake and super fresh! 

Philosophy Kiss Me Lip Balm spf 20 $12
Philosphy Kiss Me Lip Balm has been in my makeup bag for years!  Highly Emollient, super hydrating and with just a touch of a natural tint...This is the perfect lip balm-meets gloss that I have found to date!  And with a name like "Kiss Me"....this will leave you with the perfect pout day or night....kiss or no kiss! xoxo




So there you go!  The perfect fresh and simple look that anyone can wear....Of course putting your own fresh spin on it to me is where its at! 




Happy New Year Loves! 

xo

Monday, December 27, 2010

New Years Eve Party Makeup...xo

As the new year approaches us, so do many New Years Eve Parties!  Of course, being the lover of party makeup as I am...I take that night to express my love for all things glitter, gloss, and glamour! 

Regardless of where you are heading New Years Eve, make jumping into 2011 Sparkle with a few of my favorite party makeup tricks and tips!

1.  Try taking a fine glitter and applying it with a tiny angle brush underneath your bottom lash line!  The overall effect is gorgeous as the light captures just enough of the glitter to create luminescent effect!  Try working opposite color spectrum's too....If I have warm brown shadow in my crease, I will use a cooler shade of glitter, such as light iridescent blue, lavender or silver.


My personal Favorite, LA SPLASH Glitter...you can purchase at ULTA and under $7!

Glitter Placement.  And don't worry about fallout, do eye's first, clean up and then foundation last!

Finished look!
2.   Always, ALWAYS do you eye's before foundation and concealer!  This way you can really focus on blending and perfecting the look without trying to be neat.  After your eyes are done, clean up underneath, and then apply foundation and concealer!

3.   The finished look above is pretty simple, but don't be afraid to apply glitter to the eyelids and well as cheekbones!  My rule of thumb has always been if you have glitter on the upper area of the face (eyes, cheekbones) keep the lips simple.  Just a simple gloss or balm will do. 

The most important tip of all, is to have fun when it comes to party makeup!  Use your imagination!  Don't be afraid to express your creativity when it comes to who you are...makeup or no makeup!  




HAPPY NEW YEAR LOVES!
xoxo 






Wednesday, December 22, 2010

It doesn't get any sexier than this...

First, Tom Ford created probably one of the sexiest fragrances - Tom Ford Black Orchid....and now this! 

Tom Ford's Black Orchid Lip & Nail Set $140, which also includes the classic fragrance in a solid form beautifully encased in a gold compact...The Lipstick and Nail polish are the absolute perfect blend of bold Berry and Plum, and so sexy...so intriguing!



TOM FORD BLACK ORCHID LIP & NAIL SET $140 neimanmarcus.com

While this is pricey, I just cannot get over how amazing this set is!  That is the beauty of mixing the high and low...To complete the super sexy look, here are a few of my favorite add-on's on the low-end........

 1.  L'Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara in Blackest Black $7.99 - The perfect jet-black mascara that is buildable, does not clump and lengthens and curls your lashes.

2.  Maybelline Define-A-Brow eyebrow pencil in Brunette $6.49 - A true brunette shade with a tiny point to get the most precise arch.

3.  Maybelline Eye Studio Eye Plush Shadow Quad in Give Me Gold $7.49 - These 4 shadows are gorgeous, rich, wearable shades of gold that will work on any skin tone.  I even like to take the lighter shades and highlight my cheekbones.

The perfect holiday look for a night out..and so simple to achieve!

xo





What your winter skin is craving...

As the weather seems to get colder, and more dry..so does your skin!  I am not kidding, to date, this is by far the BEST skincare line that I have found to give your skin exactly what it needs!

Yes To Carrots!  Silly name, simple packaging, and some of the BEST products I have found!  The best part about the line, it is available at Walgreens and Target - you don't have to break the bank!


I recomemmend trying the Yes To Carrots Delishisly Rich Body Butter..day and night.  It is super rich, yet not greasy with a nice clean scent.  I am not even kidding, and I have told some....the first night I tried the Body Butter, I must have brushes my hand against my arm...my skin was literally so soft and silky, that it woke me up!  I am laughing even as I am typing this, but so very true!  It's just that good!

Try the entire line, but here are a few of my favorites....Yes To Carrots Delishishly Rich Body Butter $12.99, Shampoo and Conditioner $8.99 each, Rich Moisture Day Cream $14.99, and the Carrot Lip Balm $2.99(does not taste like carrots).  And I can say in all honesty, BETTER than Burt's Bee's, by far!

It takes a lot for me to stay loyal to a skincare line, as my skin is the standard combination skin.  This will be in my beauty arsenal always!

Try and Enjoy :)

xo




Tuesday, December 21, 2010

A bit of inspiration...xo

Here are a couple doll's that I feel are a huge inspiration in my "beauty" life.........These woman were, and are not afraid to take risks, going against the grain of the cosmetic norm...setting themselves apart. 

Being an individual is the most beautiful thing that we are ALL capable of being!


Natasha Khan of the band Bat for Lashes
Edie Sedqwick, Socialite, Model, Artist, Muse
Natasha Khan/Bat for Lashes/Music video for "Daniel)





Who are your dolls?

xoxo