LOVELY THINGS

E.L.F. Healthy Glow Bronzing Powder in Luminance Review

2011-01-16T19:54:00.000-08:00

Okay so first things first: this is not a bronzer, in fact it's the opposite - a highlighter. And by the way, the other shades in this product are awful in my opinion. The E.L.F. Healthy Glow Bronzing Powder in Luminance is one of those things that I didn't really know I needed until I actually bought it. Now I keep it with me at all times and boy does it get used!

This highlighting powder is soft and almost creamy in texture. It applies flawlessly - almost as if there is no need to build it up or buff it out. It's a very pale, neutral champagne color. The shimmer is not pink like most highlighters, but more or a goldish tone. It's very natural - a quality I love.

Without and with the "bronzer" applied to the bridge of my nose, cheek bones, chin, eyes and above the brow.

I also love that this is such a multi-functional product. It can be applied as a highlighter and yet also applied as eyeshadow without washing them out.

It adds that little extra somethin' you see in flawless skin and at one buck, why not just buy it? Now go on, beauty fiends, get your glow on!

Almay Clear Complexion Makeup Review

2011-01-16T11:49:00.000-08:00

I have acne, which you already know, and I decided that instead of just using a makeup that doesn't cause acne, why not use a makeup that helps with acne? So I picked up a bottle of Almay Clear Complexion Makeup in Sand which contains salicylic acid to heal acne and aloe and chamomile to soothe redness.

As far as how the foundation looks, I must say, it's perfect. It has medium to full coverage and a not-quite-dewy-not-quite-matte finish. And that's exactly what I'm looking for - moderation. The color Sand is perfect for my yellow complexion; however I must say that it does not neutralize my red blemishes as much as I'd like. (But the truth is - would I want the cakey look that comes with completely covered blemishes and scars?)

I also should add that I love how it feels. It's light and natural to the touch. I hate makeup that you can feel hanging onto your face and weighing down your skin - yuck!

Here are two photos I took - one of me with freshly cleansed skin and one of me with a full face of foundation (but no concealer, powder, etc...). The photos aren't the best quality because I'm SO bad at taking photos of myself and correcting for color, but I think you get the idea (and nevermind the fact that my face looks rounder in the photo to the left).

Now as far as whether or not it helps with acne - I have to say it definitely helps! My skin isn't perfect yet, but with the combination of this foundation and cleansing routine, I've noticed a difference in inflammation, redness and break outs. It's also nice because if I had long day and can't find the energy to wash my face, I can pass out in peace and wake up the next morning with zero redness, inflammation or oil slicks.

Simply put, I love this foundation!

Physicians Formula Airbrushing Kabuki Review

2011-01-12T10:52:00.000-08:00

YAY!!!

That's what I said when I first tore open the packaging of the PF Airbrushing Kabuki brush...and also what I say whenever I pull it out for use.

When I saw this uber flat, uber dense and uber cute brush I was like GIMME!!! (yeah, it was an exciting night for me - lot's of exclamations) It retails at about $11 and most even have a $3 off coupon attached (well at least RiteAid and CVS).

I've been using it to apply my E.L.F. Mineral Foundation, and although I wasn't pleased with the foundation, I was pleased with the application that the brush offered. It's bristles are soft and very tightly packed, making it difficult to screw up application. It worked in the foundation with ease, leaving my skin even and smooth.

Fits perfectly in the E.L.F. Mineral Foundation cap when swiveled around.

I still need to try applying powder on top of liquid foundation with this brush, but until then I'll jump the gun and just say that I love this brush in every way! It's great quality and not a single hair has fallen out since I've used it.

Now, go get it!

E.L.F. Mineral Foundation Review

2011-01-12T10:36:00.000-08:00

So...my face is kinda riddled with acne and since it isn’t getting any better I thought I’d add a new product to my Oh God I Hope This Works List (also known as Oh God I Hope This Doesn’t Add to the Problem List).

I recently purchased E.L.F.’s mineral foundation (along with other mineral products such as the eye brightener, booster and eye primer). Mineral foundation has been said to help those with sensitive and acne prone skin – that’s me!

Light and Warm foundations side by side.

I’m not going to say what skin tone I am according to MAC’s line of foundations because I like to consider my non-MAC-using readers. Instead I’ll describe it: light to medium skin tone with a whole lot of yellow. Because I have a lot of redness due to my acne (not my actual skin tone), it makes choosing a foundation difficult. So when I purchased the E.L.F. mineral foundation, I chose both Light and Warm.

Light is very yellow – more my match – while Warm isn’t necessarily darker than Light as it is more red. I’ve been using Light and the color matches perfectly.

Light and Warm compared to my skin tone (honestly, Warm looks like pink to me).

As far as coverage goes, this definitely ranks at a light to medium coverage. My acne is not completely covered when I build this to its maximum strength, but most mineral foundations are characteristically light to medium coverage, so I wasn’t really disappointed.

As far as how long it lasted I would say it lasted at a nice, typical amount of time. I don’t have terribly oily skin, just average, so the foundation lasted about 6 hours. But really, how hard would it be to just swipe a little bit on to freshen it up? When it comes to powder foundation, longevity isn’t a big issue for me because it’s easier to reapply.

Things to take note of: If my skin is not perfectly moisturized, I do get that flakey affect on my cheeks where I have acne (and where I treat it the harshest). It hasn’t helped with my skin at all, in fact, I think it has worsened from the three times I wore it. My active acne has become a little inflamed and in need of a rescue (AKA my Lush Fresh Farmacy soap, Greased Lightning treatment and Tea Tree Water toner…in case you were wondering). I’ve been applying this foundation with Physician’s Formula Airbrushing Kabuki, which is a very dense, very flat and very large brush that really works well.

But alas, even used with an optimum applicator, the foundation just isn’t for me. I won’t say that it disappointed me because I don’t feel like every kind of foundation should work with every skin type. But I will say that if you have acne, acne scars, skin spots or any other things that you would like to cover up, I would not recommend the E.L.F. Mineral Foundation. Unless, of course, you were a big concealer-user.

(See that’s the thing about makeup – there are SO many variables and options that, honestly, anyone can make almost any product work for them when used with another product. It makes writing a fair and accurate review that’s helpful to all skin types a little confusing…and difficult.)

THE VERDICT: If you’re on the fence, just buy it. It’s only five bucks (and you can get it cheaper with one of those billions of coupon codes out there) and customize its use to fit your skin and beauty needs.

Good luck out there, my fellow beauty fiends!

What do you collect?

2010-09-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

I collect snowglobes from different places. Well actually when people go somewhere and they ask me what I want as a souvenir, I ask for a snowglobe. One day I'll buy my own snowglobe from Paris...sigh...

Oh and obviously I also collect dust.

School Supplies!

2010-09-09T08:53:00.000-07:00

It's three weeks into the semester at Mt. San Antonio College (the community college I've been attending for what seems to be an eternity and am now majoring in respiratory therapy) and I've managed to keep things sunny and chipper thanks to my new school supplies. It might seem silly, but I'm the kind of girl who likes to have aesthetically pleasing things around at all times - and these folders that I purchased at Walmart for about a buck each definitely fit the bill.

Purge-tastic!

2010-09-08T13:08:00.000-07:00

There's nothing like going through all of your crap like a wild animal, putting all of it in a box (or about four small ones and two 2ft x 3ft ones) and saying BUHBYE! This is just a tiny little tip of the iceberg-sized load of unwanted, unneeded, too small, too big and just plain IN THE WAY stuff (not too mention the kind of crap that can only be categorized as what-was-I-thinking? I.E.: Victoria's Secret Super Model glitter lotion - come on, Jess, you're more classy than that!). Do you sense my anxiety, my frustration? Well once it's gone, there will be peace and I'll feel like a new woman (and so will my room - because I like to personify my room as a woman).

*Yard sale date TBD

Beauty

2010-08-30T18:15:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's always fun to browse the aisles of Right Aid and the make-up counters of Nordstroms. It feels good to put together an outfit that makes you look smashing. Having a room or living space decorated with your favorite things makes it more enjoyable to be there.

But for the past several months I've come to be greatly inspired by soul music and it's emphasis on beauty through spirituality. Nina Simone, being amongst one of my favorite soul singers captures so much in this performance. Every time I watch this video I feel inspired. Yes, things are nice, but when it boils down to it, they don't matter as much as what you have within. What you have within is what makes you beautiful (but you probably already knew that).

Nina Simone is a goddess.

PS: Expect more YouTube video installations.

Inspiration

2010-04-04T12:26:00.000-07:00

Vogue's April issue cover photo of supermodel Gisele Bundchen embodies what I see beauty to be. Perfectly natural and feminine with a touch of she-woman power. I feel positively inspired!

Temptation

2010-03-04T21:02:00.000-08:00

Honestly, I'm not a tremendous fan of Lady Gaga or Cyndi Lauper. So why am I so tempted to throw 30 bucks at the MAC counter and run away with these lippie goods? Each Viva glam lipstick by MAC goes for $14. Cyndi's lipstick is described as a "light reddish coral" and Lady's as a "light blue pink". Cyndi's might do well on me, but Lady's is definitely a risk.

Makeup Storage Revisited

2010-03-03T18:31:00.000-08:00

In one of my very first posts I showed you pictures of my make up storage. Well it sure has changed since then and i'm quite pleased with where we're at now. after some moving, pushing and pulling of furniture, below is the finished result and some show-off photos of my makeup storage featuring a small chest I got at Ikea (for about $15) and built myself. It holds everything!

My desk and cabinets. Oh and me.

My little storage unit that holds my makeup. I store makeup that I wear everyday like foundation, powder and concealer in the vintage tray I have to the right.

The first row of small drawers which carry my lipsticks to the left, lipglosses in the middle and eyeliners and random things to the right.

The top large drawer carries eyeshadows. I got these acrylics boxes from my dad (he had them burried somewhere in the garage) which fit my MAC, Victoria's Secret, L'Oreal HIP and other eyeshadows beautifully.

And finally the bottom draw which holds small creams and samples to the left and blushes and bronzers to right.

My brushes housed in random container on top.

And the storage in its entirety!

If you find your collection to be a bit on the hefty side, I highly recommend this. Even if you do only have the bare minimum makeup products, you can use this chest of drawers for plenty of things. Like how about lining the drawers with some velvet fabric and using it as a jewelry box?

Hope this helps!

Walmart Finds: Sandals

2010-03-03T18:21:00.000-08:00

Having a size 11 foot is not the greatest blessing on earth, but Walmart has (surprisingly) made matters easier with their new line of sandals for the summer...that come in sizes 5 to 11. I snatched up the second pair and I truly lurve them.

Oh and did I mention they were only $10? Yeah, now get up and go get them.

On The Search

2010-03-03T11:40:00.000-08:00

I get payed on Friday and and I'm starting to get anxious. That's because I have a couple of things that are on my retail list like this sweater and skirt from New York and Company

And some beautiful jewelry from World Market. Haven't checked out their accessories? Well you must! They have a plethora of eclectic bobbles to quench any Bohemian Princess's thirst for jewelry.

But what's been on my mind mostly is, of course, make up. I have several bronzers, but I'm not CRAZY about any of them. So starting Friday I'm officially on the search for a perfect bronzer...well, a perfect bronzer under fifteen bucks...okay under ten bucks would be ideal...but I mean if I can get away with three bucks...

Anyway! What bronzy delights shall I dapple with first?

Perhaps one of Revlon's Colorstay Mineral Finishing Powder?

Or Wet n Wild's Color Icon Bronzer?

Maybe Elf's Studio line Bronzer?

Possibly Rimmel's Natural Bronzer?

I'm definitely going to pick up Wet n Wild's bronzer because I know I can get it at Winco (yes, Winco) for under three dollars. Oh and also their blushes are awesome, so I'd expect the same from their bronzer. As for the others, we'll just have to wait and see.

Till then...Ciao!

Swapping: The Mystery Revealed

2010-02-07T22:38:00.000-08:00

No, I'm not talking about the midlife crisis sexual exploration stuff that we all fear our parents might turn to one of these days. I'm talking about swapping makeup.

Ever since I've started swapping makeup, I get really excited with every swap and want to talk about it with every female I meet. Of course questions arise like Isn't that unsanitary? or What if you don't get what you thought you were getting? So, clever me, I decided to put together a Swapping 101 post that will answer most questions and hopefully get you, dear reader, inspired to swap yourself.

First and Foremost

What is swapping?

Swapping occurs when one participating person swaps a beauty item(s) with another participating person's beauty item(s). Supposedly there are several swapping websites, but the only one I know of and use is my true blue MakeUpAlley.com

How does one swap?

On MakeUpAlley there is a system. You post items you have to swap and it all gets sent to your Swap Items list. There there is a list of all your items you want to get rid of which list their brand, name of item, type of item, when it was listed and also includes a description where you can post notes like "used two times" or "brand new, never used". You can also compile a wish list of items you want for yourself. So, for instance, a member wants Melba blush by MAC, so they go to the swap page on MakeUpAlley and select blush under Category, MAC under Brand and type in Melba under keywords, then hit Search. A list of all the members that have that blush up for swapping will appear. The member will then message whoever they see fit with their inquiry.

How does one choose who to swap with?

MakeUpAlley gives swappers the opportunity to write a "notepad" which is posted automatically within every swap item's description. Members use the notepad to list discretions, limits, personal rules or preferences for swapping items with other members. For instance, I state in my notepad that I swab every item with alcohol and that I have animals, but my makeup is safe from them. Some members might have lists of their favorites scents, brands or colors so that when you are interested in swapping with them, it will be easier to offer something from your swap list that might like. If you are new to swapping, I encourage that you swap with experienced swappers to solidify your reputation.

How does one solidify their reputation?

Well I'm glad you asked. MakeUpAlley has it set up so that you can award tokens (positive, neutral or negative) to every member you swap with. You can also add a comment with the token. Needless to say, the more positive tokens a member has, the better off you are swapping with them.

How should I ship my swap items?

Because most makeup items are are small, you can use 6 in x 9 in padded mailers. You find these for less than a dollar at places like Target, Walmart, grocery stores or post offices. Depending on the weight and where the item is going to, shipping will cost you about $3. Some swappers may ask that you include shipping confirmation. When you go to the post office, ask the clerk for it and they'll be able to provide it for you. Last time I used the confirmation service, it cost me 80 cents. Note: remember to send the confirmation number to the swapper you are sending the package to.

Miscellaneous Information:

- Most swappers add extra goodies to their swaps. Extra can vary from make up samples, to coupons to wrapped candy. I like to send a small bottle of nail polish, travel soap that I've acquired from travelling or samples I've received from other swaps. It is very important that the extras are brand new and have not been used at all. Extras are also a good way to even out a swap. Say your fellow swapper has something that is a bit more valuable than what you are sending them. Add a couple of valuable extras to even out the swap.

- There are many swappers who prefer to swap their items with only the items they have listed on their wishlist. Make sure to read their notepad before sending a swap request.

- Swapping is a hobby, not a business, so always be friendly and willing to accommodate within your abilities.

- When listing an item you would like to swap, be honest when describing it's use. Use descriptions like "Used twice" or "80% left". If you have only swatched a blush it on you finger, let's say, make that clear.

Though the rules may sound a bit rigid, it all starts to come naturally after the first or second swap. Just think How would I like to be treated by my fellow swapper? and apply your preferences to your own swapping etiquette. I have acquired many things I've wanted in the past without spending money and was able to organize and declutter my makeup collection at the same time.

If you have any other questions about swapping, please comment or email me.

Happy swapping everyone!

Top Favorite Nail Polishes

2010-02-07T22:15:00.000-08:00

With a collection of about 70 nail polishes, I figured it was time to compile a small list of my favorites - the best of the best. Although i love all of my lovely lacquers, I came up with six (odd numbers are just . . . odd)of my all time faves. From demure to daring here's my list!

From left to right (in no particular order)

China Glaze Shower together - Rich teal

Savina Dream - Neon purple (more red than in photo)

OPI My Private Jet - Charcoal with irridescent microglitter, plus a blue to purple flash

OPI Hey! Get in Lime - Pale seafoam green

OPI Gingerbells - Burnt orange to reddish brown

Sephora by OPI Casting Call - Dusty violet

If I weren't as lazy as I am, I would definitely be posting swatch colors but . . . meh. Anyway, enjoy!

Oh MAC, you have a way with making me feel a little defeated each time I visit your counters.

2010-02-04T23:52:00.000-08:00

Until I found a little blog called The Next Best Thing To Going Shopping Yourself, which, in fact stays true to it's name except for that that it doesn't necessarily satiate my craving to shop- it enhances it. The beauty of this little blog is the fact that writer, known as KarlaSugar has genius swatches organized perfectly on her arm for almost every collection she reviews. With clear, daylight photos, it's easy for us as the reader to look at something and say "hm, I want that" (as if we weren't saying it before).

My favorite blog post of mine that she has made is definitely her compiled photos of blush swatches by MAC, including MAC Pro blushes! I love this post because we rarely see blog posts with clear shots of MAC blushes, and since there seems to be an infinite amount of them that i can never choose from, this post helps immensely! Check it out and I'm sure I'll be seeing you at the MAC counter with about 10 perfectly picked blushes in my hands :)

Project 10 Pan Picks

2010-02-04T16:11:00.000-08:00

It's this simple: don't buy any cosmetics until you finish ten cosmetic items. Seems simple, but it will be much more difficult to accomplish once January 11th rolls around. That's when MAC's Spring Color Forecast collections in pink, coral, plum and amber hit counters.

Anyway, anyway. Enough with my makeup lusty tangent.

I carefully chose the items that I hope to finish within the next couple of months.

Here's the list:

- Sephora Bronzer in Riviera

- No.7 Blush in Petal

- MAC Fluidline in Blacktrack

- VS Lipstick in Sweet Nothing

- Ulta Lipstick in blushing Peach

- MAC Lipstick in Shy Girl

- VS Beauty Rush Lipgloss in Lotta Colada

- MAC Eyeshadow in Texture (top left in pan)

- MAC Eyeshadow in Creme de Violet (top right)

- MAC Eyeshadow in Expensive Pink (bottom right)

- MAC Eyeshadow in Brown Script (bottom left)

So that makes eleven, but the lipgloss is only about 1/4 full. An easy finish. With some of the products, I chose ones that were on their way out (No.7 blush and MAC fluidline) or in bad shape (my Ulta and MAC lipsticks and eyeshadows).

If you feel like you want to try this little project, let me know so we can share experiences together!

More Than Just Jewelry Storage

2010-02-04T14:46:00.000-08:00

I definitely have collected a lot of jewelry over the years, and, inevitably, my jewelry box just wasn't cutting it. Today's women have long necklaces and dangly, intricate earrings. Since I couldn't afford a jewelry cabinet to keep the tangle-free, I decided to take jewelry storage matters into my own hands. And through the process, the project uncovered itself as a great way to decorate my and showcase my colorful bobbins.

Here are some tips:

- Show off your necklaces and earrings by hanging them by decorative or clear push pins. I happened to have over sized push pins that were coated with a metallic paint that worked great for my heavier necklaces. I also arrange the push pins for my necklaces in a sort of wavy pattern because I knew there was no way of getting them perfectly straight.

- Look around your home for different containers to house you bracelettes. I found a desert dish with a cute base in my laundry/storage room and the turquoise flower dish had been hanging around my room for ages with no purpose. The shell dish also has been floating around my home for a the longest time.

- Shop in different departments and shop cheap! For the square shaped container I shopped through the candle section of World Market (my favorite store). It's actually a candle holder that i got for $2.50. The pink flower jewelry stand was picked from a clearance section in Target for about a buck, fifty! Good deal!

My objective, so to speak, for the way I decorate my room is to always surround myself with beautiful, colorful, joyous, rich and inspiration-friendly things. Actually sometimes it can get a little ridiculous - free space on my walls comes in the inches, barely. But I do what makes me happy! And lovely things make me happy :)

DIYin It: Procrastination Style!

2010-01-30T00:00:00.000-08:00

What better way to dabble in DIY projects than by going the procrastination route? Before Christmas, I had mention the Knifty Knitter Loom Set (found at Walmart or Michaels) one too many times to friends and family (you know, just to make sure someone got the hint). And I'll be a dog's biscuit if my darlin' sis Elena didn't take a bite to that huge piece of bait. So now I have the set in which two of the looms are occupied with half-made knitted goods. A small beanie and a tube scarf to be exact

Photo Courtesy of TenOverSix

Of course my tube scarf will look nothing like this - my yarn is chunky and a pale taupe color, as you can see in the photo at the top of the entry. Anyway, I just wanted to share with you my small endeavor. Enjoy!

My Recent Ventures into Online DIY Blogs

2009-11-22T14:13:00.000-08:00

Just a quick update: I've started my repiratory therapy program at Mt SAC in August and wow! it's pretty much kicking my butt. But that's okay, that's okay - I have my creative outlets, and as of late it has been crafting and DIY fashion. I can't get enough of the stuff. I've been spending hours checking out websites and blogs and have taken up a small collection of my favorites. Here's a very small blogroll of fashion and craft blogs pasked with inspiration:

Park and Cube
Love Maegan
This is Love Forever

So it kinda goes without saying that I have put what I learned about DIY fashion into action and have started transforming a tank top into a vest, a jasket with huge sleeves into a jacket with slimmer sleeves, and long top into a top that's short in the front and long in the back . . . which i failed miserably at (the top was a little funky in shape).

Anyway, readers, sorry this blog is lacking in the visual aspects, but i will soon make it to you with pictures of my DIY projects!

Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Potion

2009-07-13T17:15:00.000-07:00

Finally! I found my new foundation substitute to get me through the make-up melting heat. Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer (try saying that five times fast), gets rid of oilies and evens out my tanned skin. This is a fantastic find of mine because I can't stand my thick, full coverage foundation during the summer, and really all I need is a concealer and this nifty little tube of primer and I'm good to go. Oh and when you decide to get your own, don't both purchasing the large $36 bottle, since you won't be using it very often. Purchase the $17 sample tube instead.

Dupe Alert: Mac Play on Plums vs. L'oreal HIP Playful

2009-07-13T14:33:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love realizing that you don't use a particular MAC product and you still have the box that it goes in and you got it from Nordstrom? It means that you can exchange it with ease and that's what I did! It's like shopping without spending money. Anyway, exchanged a concealer for MAC's Mineralize Eyeshadow in Play on Plums. Then yesterday I purchased a L'Oreal HIP Eyeshadow Duo in Playful with a BOGO Free deal. I brought it home and it dawned on me: DUPE ALERT! They look almost identical, with the exception of the veining and glitter in Play on Plums. I swatched them side by side on my hand and this is what came out:

Which one's which? Would you be surprised to the know that the two shades on the left are Playful and the two on the right are Play on Plums? I kind of was. In fact, it took a good rub to get that pigmentation out of the Play on Plums, whereas Playful gave it up easy. Playful isn't a perfect dupe of Play on Plums, but it's damn close. And because it's quality is, dare I say it, better, I'm kind of freakin out over this.

Not a perfect picture, but check out how similar they are? Even their names are similar!

I'm a firm believer in not spending tons of money on something you can get for a modest amount. Why spend $20 when you can spend $8?

CoverGirl Outlast Lipstains

2009-07-13T13:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was able to pick up a couple of CoverGirl's Outlast Lipstains (thank goodness for Ulta sales!). As you can see by the packaging, I have a thing for lippies in the orange family. But don't let the coral pens fool you, all three of these are surprisingly different.

Everbloom Kiss - A natural more orangey pink. I love this color, but it doesn't stay on very long. Maybe an hour.

Flirty Nude - My favorite of the bunch. It's very versatile: a small amount makes my lips looklike my lips but better, and a couple of more coats makes for more dramatic brick red lips (great with black winged eyeliner). Like Everbloom Kiss, it doesn't stay on very long, but I don't mind reapplying.

Coy Coral (by itself and with gloss) - This is definitely the rebel of the three sisters; and the name is very misleading. There's nothing COY or CORAL about this lipstain. In fact it looks my lips are in mid transformation from my lips to a strawberry. But you know what? I love it! it stayed on through pizza, through drinks and even through a dip in the pool. It's bright but wearable. And it looks fabulous with a liberal slathering of clear lipgloss.

Lipstains are perfect for the ridiculously hot California weather (it's upwards of 90 right now), because they don't leave a thick layer of goo on your face. The reason why CG Outlast Lipstains rule is because they're the only drugstore brand lipstains. Most only exist in Sephora-land for $15 and up. Oh and they taste like berries. Till next time!

Everyone's Freaking Out About Illasmaqua's Cosmetics . . .

2009-06-26T22:12:00.000-07:00

But I'm freakin' out about its maker. . .well one of its makers.

David Vanian, lead singer of one of the most popular punk rock bands in the 70s, The Damned, is one of the creators of the new MAC-comparable British make-up line, Illamasqua. His partners are makeup artist Alex Box and fellow musician turned artist Anja Huwe.

The Damned is best known for their single "New Rose" and, according to Wikipedia, it made them popular by being the first single released by a punk rock band. And a damn good single it is! Nothing like clicking through the tracks on one of my custom made mix discs (titled simply punk rock in green Sharpie) to hear the first line "Is she really going out with him?", from which rocking out ensues.

David Vanian (second from left) with band The Damned stands out with his theatrical image-conscious look.

It's sort of curious hearing that an original punk rocker would be partly responsible for such a sophisticated, majestic and theatrical make-up line. Looking at early photos of Vanian, you can see he was obviously influenced by dark romance, vampires and gothic imagery, but listening to early Damned all you hear is fast guitar riffs, messy drum beats. and a voice with that who-gives-a-sh** attitude ---- certainly not the voice of a cosmetics line creator. But then it starts making sense as you listen to their later tunes. From punk rock to new wave to goth to rockabilly, The Damned have changed their sound. However, the continuous theme manifested in the band's later years seems to be theatrics, and that is what Vanian is responsible for.

A look developed by Illamasqua called "Noir" is a direct expression of Vanian's love for film noir, which was the theme of this year's film "The Perfect Sleep", for which he wrote the score. Interesting, huh?

So what does this all mean for me? Well over the past several months I've been feeling conflicted. I want to be a cool rocker chick with a music collection that ranges from The Kinks to the Clash to Cat Power; but I always end up feeling like a vain girly-girl whenever I freak out over the perfectly pink blush at the make-up counter. Finding out that the lead singer of one of the most popular punk rock bands in the 70s has co-created such a beatiful cosmetics line has now influenced me. For most beauty is a hobby, but for some it can be an art. It can be a way to express yourself, and that's how I plan to look at it from here on in. Thanks David Vanian for helping me see that.

OPI Matte Polishes

2009-06-16T11:41:00.000-07:00

Upon finding these polishes at a local beauty supply store, I was excited and had no idea the weight of my discovery. Supposedly these don't come out for another month and having my paws on them is a big deal. But to be honest, these polishes leave much to be desired. Let me explain . . .

La Paz-tively Hot - Okay so this color rules and I love it in a matte finish, but here's the thing: it's not too nice to the edges of my nails and chips! So sad :(

You Don't Know Jacque! - I love this color but the application is worth . . . 'Jacque', if you will (had to!). My nails aren'tridgy, they were just buffed yesterday. So as you can see, the polish leave a terrible tecture once it dries. It's so hard to apply. either i start with too much or too little on the brush, it's never right. I'm definitely returning this polish.

In fact, I'll be returning both and probably be purchasing a matte top coat. Oh well, I tried, didn't work, moving on.

My Future Make-Up Line: My Entrepeneurial Dreams

2009-06-15T08:10:00.000-07:00

So I've been thinking, I really like the idea of being a respiratory therapist (which I'll be starting school for in August) and an entrepeneur on the side. I thought of many things I could do with photography, and since I'm experienced with photography enough to start most of the ideas I thought up of, it has been a sign that I haven't taken my ideas anywhere. You know, if you really want something, you'll get it. I've since decided that photography is more of a personal hobby.

But I still am eager to be financially stable so I can open some kind of company. Since I've been so obsessed with make-up, which has led to nails, I realized that it's more than just a consumer obsession - I really LOVE it and I love sharing things I've learned and my own ideas with other people. I know for sure that I want to go to beauty school once I get a job at a hospital and maybe do make-up and nails here and there, but what would realy be exciting is making my own brand!

So what would my brand be defined by? Natural, colorful, unique and whimsical. The campiness of Benefit, the colors of MAC, the natural ease of Clinique, the environment consciousness of Cargo and Tarte (recyclable packaging!). It would be the make-up that non-make-up-wearers would want to wear. And the nailpolish? One word: UNIQUE. I love unique colors and this would definitely respresent that side of me.

So readers, what FOUR words would define your make-up, nail polish, skincare, haircare or fragrance line?

Let's Talk Tees

2009-06-14T21:37:00.000-07:00

So, I have other obsessions that don't include beauty, and one of my main ones is FINDING THE PERFECT TEE. It has been a long endeavor, and several times I have falsely assumed that I found THEE one, but every summer I always find a new perfect tee. Let's take a look back into my journey . . .

First, it was the 5 pack of Hanes Tagless V-Neck.

Yes, the picture is a nice touch (it's also on the bag that the shirts come in), but let's get serious here. These shirts rock, and they fit me (and most ladies) well. I liked wearing them while I still in that tomboy/rocker chick frame of mind, but as years passed, I decided I needed something with more of a feminine touch, and the cut of this shirt wasn't well . . . cuttin' it.

So then the next summer (last summer) I found H&M t-shirts (sorry, no pic). They were great with a low cut neck which was great on a bigger girl like me (5'10" and size 14, in case you were curious) - crew necks and narrow or short v-necks don't look great on large women. So the neck on this t-shirt was great . . . except for the sleeves. The sleeves were shorter than I wanted and got worse after every wash because after they'd go through the drier, the elastic on the edges of the sleeves would lose elasticity and get tighter.

So when May came this year, I went back on the search and I think I found it. There are many reasons why I love this t-shirt, but one of the main reasons is the price - $4.50 a piece! 'So where's it from?' you might ask. Well where else but Forever 21!

The fabric is FABULOUS! Soft and very light and ALMOST sheer, but not in need of a cami to wear underneath it. It's perfect for the summer and look at the sleeves: nice and long! I have 3 of these tops in white, the seafoam shown above, and heather grey. Oh and I picked up a lime green v-neck version of this.

I'm just so happy to have found these easy, breezy and super cheap tees - they are truly perfect for summer time!

Sephora By OPI: My Little Collection

2009-06-09T10:43:00.000-07:00

So some of you may know that my birthday passed about a month ago (I turned 22!) and on that day my sister and her hubby gave me the perfect gift: a gift card to Sephora :drool:! So I took it upon myself to spend it on quality nail polishes, unlike the $.99 ones I would impulsively pick up at Walmart and spend about an hour swiping on 5 coats for each nail. No! This time it would take a half an hour and only two coats! So you wanna see?!

Polishes from left to right: Casting Call, Brainiac and Let's Do Lunch

So far I'm friggin in love with them! Opaque and easy to apply, I'll probably be wearing these puppies all summer long. I did Purchase two colors, however, that I wasn't crazy about: Blue Grotto and How Cute is That (check out the colors here). Blue Grotto is a great formula with great opacity, but I just think the deep, cool color doesn't look great against my warm toned skin. How Cute is That looks great in the bottle, but applies streaky dries weird. The color was just way to bright. So returned both! Check out Ocean Love Potion, a turqoise cream - can't wait to get my paws on that color!

Okay so here are the swatches:

Casting Call

Let's Do Lunch

Brainiac

Sorry the last image came out terribly! I love love love all these colors, they all took 2 coats, except if you want a little added depth, you can a third to Let's Do Lunch. And have you noticed my affinity for creams? Anyway, don't doubt for a second that my collection stops here, there definitely will be more to come!

Oh! And don't forget to do my poll to the right!

My New Faves

2009-06-08T11:46:00.001-07:00

Today's keyword: NEW.

New layout, new colors, new week, and most of all a list of my new beauty faves.

I've spent several months honing in on my personal beauty expertise, and now I have a list of what I call my new beauty faves. Let's start, shall we?

1. St. Ives Apricot Scrub and Neutrogena Acne Stress Control Foam Wash - Now that I've really grasped the way my skin behaves, I've come to learn that my skin regimen can be simple. I use the foam wash in the morning and the foam wash plus the scrub at night to get rid of makeup. they say you're only supposed to use a scrub once a couple times a week, but I've found using it every day is more helpful than harmful - especially since I have scarring, it really helps with that.

2. Lush The Big Hair Affair Products - Okay, so I haven't spent much time with these products yet but I absolutely LOVE the concept behind this new offer. Seven sample sized products for $15! You choose 2 solid shampoos, you get 1 solid conditioner (they only have one kind), 1 liquid shampoo, 1 liquid conditioner, 1 hair gel and you get a hair mask. I chose all products that help me defeat the monster that is chlorinated pool water (i'm a swim instructor). I've used the solid shampoo and conditioner and it made my bathroom smell like a spa, it was fabulous. The texture of my hair feels strong and clean, but I most likely will have to do an update post to break down every product.

3. Coppertone SPF 50 Sunblock and Neutrogena SPF 55 Age Shield Face Sunblock - Like I've said, I'm a swim instructor during the summer and a lifeguard too, so having these products are absolutely crutial. They both have UVB and UVA potection, so I'm set for the summer. I love the face sunblock because it's not greasy and works well with my foundation.

4. Victoria's Secret Naturally Collection in Blackberry and Tonka Bean - Well it all started with the scrub (I use it before I shave my underarms, legs and bikini line - also great for hands) and then I was like "I'm obsessed with this scent!" So I took advantage of VS's buy 2 get 1 free deal and completed my collection. I have the body wash, mist, lotion and scrub now and I'm ADDICTED. I knew it was a match made in heaven when i went over to my squeeze's house the other day, we embraced and he said "you smell good". I wear lotions and mists constantly, but that was one of the few times he actually took note of it. Score!

5. Wet n Wild Clear Top Coat, Essie in Clam Bake, LA Girl in Blue, Sephora by OPI in Brainiac, A Perfect "10" in Yummy!, Sephora brand in Beige Topaz - So I have new spefcific obessesion with nail polish and so far these are favorites oftheir collection. I'll save the essay now, and probably post swatches in the future.

6. Physicians Formula Baked Bronzer in Baked Tan - After purchasing this because it was on sale, i was pleasntly surprise by a great bronzer. Not to orange, not too dull, just right for a perfect summer bronzed look. I love using this with a peach blush, copper toned eyeshadow and bright pop of aqua eyeliner.

7. MAC Fix+ - Yes, that is a thumbs up for a great product. I love this stuff! I use it to set my makeup and make it look more natural and less powdery and it works!

8. CoverGirl LashBlast Masacara - What can I say? It's a cosmetic cult classic and I'm definitely part of the cult. Anticlumping and probeautifying, this masacara's got it goin' on. I love this big orange tube!

Finally done! So now that I'm done listing my faves, what are yours?

Coming Back from a Hiatus

2009-06-07T15:49:00.000-07:00

Wow! It's been a while! Well, the beauty bug has definitely stuck and I've built my collection to the point where I've overgrown my bathroom counter - I got a desk and some storage and moved to my room.

Anyway, I'm definitely back for good!

The Law IS on My Side

2009-01-20T18:22:00.000-08:00

Ah! What a great day - a fantastic inaugural speech from our new Prez and to top it off . . . free make up! Due to the lawsuit against several department stores, a selection of cosmetics and fragrances were being given away free to women across the country. So how could i stay at home knowing that there were some goodies ripe for the pickin'?

We waited in a very long line outside of Nordstrom, but we were at the front of it no time. I had to chose what i wanted in a rush, and luckily i made the right choice (how many times have you made a choice in a rush that ended up being the wrong one. I got 3.4 oz bottle of Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Body Lotion - the perfect Valentine's Day fragrance. But that'snot the end of it. Immediately we off to Macy's where i got Lancome's Fatale Mascara in Black. As an exercise of generosity i gave it to my sister since she wasn't able to make it today. Besides i don't consider myself to be the Femme Fatale type.

What a nice day!

Tips for Your Hair

2009-01-18T12:09:00.000-08:00

I know i said this blog would be heavier on the tips, lighter on the reviews. So i decided to show alist of steps of getting your hair back to its beautiful self. A little background: I've been lifeguarding for the past 4 consecutive summers. I also did some swim instructing - so by september '08, i was fed up with my brittle, dry hair. i went to a salon (Not just Fantastic Sams) and asked the stylist for some advice. Here's a list of steps i've picked up from her advice and things i've picked up on my own. And guess what - it worked!

1. Start shampooing hair before you do anything else in the shower. Start with the scalp and use excess soap to wash the rest of the hair. Use less than you usually would. Rinse thoroughly in warm water.
2. Condition hair by starting with the shaft and then working the excess conditioner into the scalp. (Basically do the opposite of what you did with the shampoo). Do not rinse your hair out until you have finish doing whatever else you do in the shower. I usually pull my hair up in a tight bun to keep it from getting wet during my showerly tasks. Once it's time to rinse, use COOL water. this is VERY VERY important. The cool water onctricts the pores in your locks and holds in the moisture from the conditioner - just like skin. using hot water would strip your hair of moisture, so use cool. it doesn't have to be cold, just several degrees cooler from the water you were using earlier, to make the pores go "oh it's cooler now! let's constrict!".
*if you feel a weird film on your back, hold your hair as you rinse your skin with warm water.
3. towel dry your hair thoroughly.
4. Use a leave in conditioner or serum. Start working it in at the shaft and work your way up, but avoid the scalp - it will be too greasy. DO NOT start at the crown or front of your hair. Comb through hair to evenly distribute the product.

The products i used:

Redken Smooth Down Shampoo

Redken Smooth Down Conditioner

Biosilk Silk Therapy

Hope you this helped you and your soon to be lovely locks!

The Lightning Bolt: David Bowie vs. Lady Gaga

2009-01-18T12:02:00.001-08:00

Well, it's obvious, David Bowie wins for originality (and in fact I grimace at Lady for stealing the thunder . . . literally . . . you know: thunder, lightning . . . anyway). But I because this is a cosmetics issue i thought i'd picture the two for comparison.

Oh, Bowie. I love you.

Lady Gaga, get your own iconic look!

What's it all about?

2008-12-14T15:10:00.001-08:00

A little background before we get into things: I've never been into make-up, hair or any kind of beauty products. In fact I wore a ponytail for about 75% of my adolesent years and always wondered what was so exciting about dropping 25 bucks on a tube of ink. But then something happened. I don't know what it was that made me realize: I freakin' love make-up! And then skin care products started tootin' my horn and lotions and yummy fragances amd then next thing you know I'm dying to have silky, beautiful hair (and I'm flirting with the thought of getting some color).

The only probem is that I'm a student, and those who are students know what that means: I'm broke. Yeah, I got a good situation right now with my parents, but when it comes to income, there's no such thing in my pockets (by the way, send positive thoughts my way tomorrow around 3 pm, I have an interview at the Hilton as a lobby representative).

Even though I wish my signature scent could be Viktor and Rolf's Flowerbomb and that I could have a slew of Chanel Glossimers and that my cabinets were filled with Fekkai hair products, I can't afford those things. So that means that in this blog I won't have reviews of the new Sephora favorite list products, instead I'll let you know what I think about the new Sonia Kashuk Lashify Mascara that I bought (which, by the way, is one of my favorites), or the Ulta eyeshadows that i love to apply with a wet brush. You know, more student friendly stuff.

But moreso, what I plan to inform you of is the How and less of the What. I'm no make-up artist, but I do have some tips and I'll probably show you my version of a tip or trick that I've learned in a magazine or blog. This is the blog that you'll look to for ideas and tips, as opposed to reviews (though there will be some). And you know, maybe you'll even get a small dose of fashion, music, culture or food.

So, I invite you to my new adventures in beauty . . . onward to the world of girliness!