Get the Look: NYE 2012

It's NYE! I don't know about the rest of you, but time just zoomed by! 2012 was an amazing year and like I say every year, the next year will be even better. I hope the rest of you Makeup Junkies have had a fantastic 2012 and I thank you for being apart of my world! Wishing you much love, peace and happiness for 2013!

Before I say peace out on my last post for 2012, check out some gorgeous NYE looks and beauty items you'll need to ring in the new year! 

NYE is the time to let loose, forget about all your 2012 woes, and get a little crazy. Go a little bolder with your makeup and have some fun with some jewel tones on the eyes and nails! 

1. YSL Pure Chromatics Wet/Dry Eye Shadow in Arctic Night: I am loving these new palettes from YSL. These satiny metallic powders are intensely pigmented wet or dry. Arctic Night is a collectors palette from the holiday collection. The shades are a mix of icy blues and a plum purple. For a NYE look that will get you noticed, apply the purple across the lid and the dark blue shade on the outer crease and along the lash line for a sultry effect. Highlight the inner corners with the icy silver-blue. 

2. Clinique Chubby Stick Intense in Curviest Caramel: I am all about the chubby lip pencils these days. The new Chubby Stick Intense lippies are amazing - pure pigment and shine. If you take a peek into my purse, you'll see a few Chubby Intense sticks in there. Curviest Caramel is the perfect shade for a jewel-toned smokey eye. Some might say it's the perfect nude lip. It has the right combination of pink and beige mixed together but leaning more beige. If you'll be snapping a lot of photos, you still want your nude lips to look visible! 

3. Maybelline Fashion Print Nail Stickers in Sapphire Jewels: Nail stickers are my new favourite mani-on-the-go. It requires no drying time and is really easy to do. Simply choose the right shape for your nail, press, and file to your nail shape. Thankfully the ones from Maybelline aren't terribly tacky and look pretty funky. I tried out Sapphire Jewels today and did it in less than 20 minutes while watching a toddler! Here's the only downfall: don't expect to be doing any outdoorsy activities with these stickers! They started to peel off as soon as I pulled my boots on before leaving the house. However, these are perfect for standing around and looking pretty at a NYE party! The patterns are sure to get conversations going and your nails will look like you actually put some time and effort into them! 

Before

After

Prefer something glam but a little rock 'n roll? Nothing says it better than a little smudgy liner and a bold lip!

1. Annabelle Roll On Eye Shadow/Liner in Brown: I was never a fan of roll-on eye shadows until now. I always found that the colour was hard to get out onto the roller or it was lacking in pigment. I don't believe this one from Annabelle is out yet, but be sure to add Brown to your must-have list. This shade is the perfect neutral and the intense shimmer kicks it up a notch. If you need more of the product just give it a little shake. If it rolls on to much in one area, take a brush or your finger and pat it across your lid. Always use a patting motion for loose shadows - you'll get less fall off and more pigment. To contour the crease, use a matte neutral shade to balance the shimmer. The liner fell a little flat for me. It was a little watery and needed a few layers to give it intensity. Otherwise, both the shadow and liner lasted all night on me! I used it for my family Christmas Eve party here. 

2. Marcelle Kajal Kohl Pencil: Kajal liners are becoming a new makeup staple. I am loving this water-proof, intense black from Marcelle. I don't think this has launched yet, but will be in the new year. For rock 'n roll glam eyes, you don't want a strong black smokey eye and a bold lip. It will look overkill. Instead, opt for smudgy liner by lining the top inner lash line otherwise known as "tight lining". Just flip your lid up and line the base of your lashes. Then line the bottom water line, close your eyes tightly, then line again. Load up on the mascara or use some falsies. 

3. Giorgio Armani Lip Maestro in The Red: Ok, so I'm kinda in love with the new Lip Maestros. My lips are loving the velvety smooth texture and the creamy, matte finish. They don't accentuate dry or chapped lips, but if you're doing a red lip it's always best to make sure your lips are in tip top shape. The slightly angled sponge makes the application easier, but if you do mess up don't try wiping it off with your finger (like I did). It'll just smear and these don't budge. It's best to take a cleansing water on a q-tip or moisturizer on a q-tip to remove it. Then touch up with a bit of a concealer. These also don't feather or bleed so while you're sipping on your champagne you won't have to think about your lips looking messy! 

What will your last look of 2012 be? 

Products were sent for editorial consideration and I truly love them. 

Get the Look: Holiday Glam

Get the Look: Holiday Glam
with
Lise Watier, Make Up For Ever

Photographer: Camille Rojas, Makeup: Joy David-Tilberg, Model: Jenna (Peggi Lepage) Assistant: Heather

Glitter, sparkle, and shimmer is in full force now that the holidays are just around the corner! Don't be afraid to add a little bling to your look as you head out to your many holiday parties.

The look I created is classic Old Hollywood with a slight twist. It's all about glowing skin, bold brows, winged liner and bold luscious lips. Take this iconic look and play around with different colours.

Get the Look:

1. Even out your skin with a foundation that has a semi-matte finish and good coverage.
2. To balance a bold lip you need to have a full brow. I used Make Up For Ever's Aqua Brow which is a water-proof formula. If you're new to filling in your brows, using this gel will take some time to get used to but you can be sure your brows will be there until you remove your makeup! The best way to use this is to dab a pin-size drop onto your hand and dip your angled brush in it. Remove the excess off on a tissue. Use light strokes in the direction of your hair growth and only apply where you need it. If you need to soften or blend, do it quickly because it sets rather quickly. This is excellent over top of faded tattooed brows too.
3. If you love cream shadows that won't budge you must have the Make Up For Ever Black Tango Palette (limited edition palette for the holidays). I adore these shadows because they glide onto the eyes and blend superbly! The palette includes black with red highlights, black with green highlights, black with blue highlights and an ivory shade. For this look, I used the Ivory shade as the base and concentrated more in the inner corner and brow bone. Rather than using a traditional black liner, I chose the black with blue highlights which is just beautiful. It has a slight metallic finish and looks stunning when the light catches it. I used a thin liner brush and gradually thickened the line until I was satisfied with the shape.
4. Over top of the ivory shade from MUFE, I used this absolutely stunning gold shadow from Lise Watier. I also used this to highlight her cheekbones, cupid's bow and even dabbed some onto the lips. It has to be one of my favourite gold shadows I own. The texture is luxurious and is velvety smooth. I was a little bummed when I received it though because it was shattered. I will have to give it some makeup fix TLC - I love it that much!
5. With all the yummy eats you'll be chomping on and champagne you'll be sipping, you'll want a lip colour that won't budge. If you haven't tried Make Up For Ever's Aqua Rouge lippies you must. It's one of the best long-lasting formulas I've tried and it doesn't dry out the lips. The clear gloss keeps your lips hydrated for a long time even after eating. The shine disappears but the gloss keeps your lips feeling comfortable. I used #9 on Jenna which is a gorgeous burgundy shade. The gold shimmer looks amazing over top. Just add a little to the center of your lips.

Give your hair some sexy waves, add some blingy jewelry and your holiday glam look is complete!

Get the Look: Modern Day Bardot

Get The Look: Modern Day Bardot

with Rsession Tools, Schwarzkopf OSiS Dust It, Bdellium Tools

Photographer: Artiese Studios, Makeup: Joy David-Tilberg, Hair: Emily Pike, Model: Betta (Spot 6)

Trends come, go, and come back again. I love recreating modern versions of iconic beauty looks. Brigette Bardot's sexy kitten eyes and big bombshell hair is making a comeback thanks to musicians like Adele and TV shows like Mad Men. This is a sexy look that will work for everyone. 

Be a modern day Bardot with these easy hair and makeup tricks that will work day or night! I interviewed hair expert, Emily Pike, who helped me create this look on our model Betta. 

Get the Look

Makeup: 

• bdellium Tools #710: To recreate a sexy cat eye, a thin pointy liner brush is essential for a precise application. The look I created was a mix of mod 60's and a cat eye. I love bdellium brushes and the 710 is easy to control especially if you're lining in the crease. 
• tarte cosmetics Amazonian Clay Waterproof Liner in Plum: To bring this look to modern day, I thought using a coloured liner would give it a fresher look. I love these creamy liners from tarte. They apply so smoothly and stay put all day - no creasing or fading. The shades are vibrant and pigmented. Dip your line brush into the product and start by lining your top lash line and wing it out towards your brow. Then start at the inner corner and make a line in your crease meeting with the tip of your winged liner. Leave the lid bare or apply a beige or white shadow to really accentuate the shape. Use the same liner and brush to line the bottom lash line and join it with your top liner. Use a black liner to line the waterline to give the eye more drama. To make this work for day, skip lining the crease and bottom liner. 

Hair: 

• Schwarzkopf OSiS Dust It: This style works best on hair that was previously curled a couple of days before. Brush your hair and use a dry shampoo or a mattifying powder like Dust It by Osis. This will help give you amazing volume and absorb the oils in your hair to refresh your look. Dust your product of choice at your roots and and massage at your scalp with your finger tips. Use the same motion that you would when washing/lathering your hair in the shower. 
• Teasing Comb: Become ONE with a comb - it's time to tease, tease, tease like crazy! Once you've teased your hair from ear-line to hairline, smooth it all back and off your face with a light touch and a soft bristol brush. Take your time and check how it looks in the mirror as you tame the beast of frizz into the perfect shape and desired amount of volume. To make this look more modern and work appropriate just pull a small section of hair from above both sides of your ears and pin them at the back of your head. The result: a mod version of "half up-half down"  with volume and a soft wave. Gorgeous!

About Emily Pike: 

Emily is a WedLuxe award winning freelance hairstylist in Toronto who specializes in bridal, editorial, and commercial work. To book email: emilysarapike[at]gmail[dot]com or call 416.993.2281.

Makeup 101: Camilla Belle By Hung Vanngo!

Camilla Belle is such a stunning beauty. I absolutely adore this look that was created by ck one color cosmetics official makeup artist and one of my all-time favourite artists, Hung Vanngo. I was beyond thrilled to find out years back that Hung actually reads my blog from time to time! And a few years later I finally got to meet him at Toronto's first ever IMATS - makeup artists are my celebrity! I've followed his work over the years and I'm not surprised he has become a celebrity favourite. His client list includes moguls Mary Kate and Ashley Olson, the hilarious Kristen Wiig, and of course Camilla Belle to name a few. Besides him being uber talented at what he does, he's so down to earth and looks like he could be a model himself! Now he's the official makeup artist for ck one. Amazing resume wouldn't you say?

If you love this look as much as I do, then check out the ck one products Hung used on her during NYFW.

"Camilla loves to experiment with color, but we wanted to keep her makeup fresh and simple for daytime. We created this youthful  look by adding subtle shades of silver and purple for a playful take on fresh clean makeup"  – Hung Vanngo for ck one color cosmetics

FACE

Start with ck one 3-in-1 face makeup in sand 

Mix with a drop of ck one skin illuminator in cool

Add ck one mousse concealer in 200

Use ck one cream + powder bronzer duo in warm glow around hairline and jaw to contour the face and define the shape

Dot ck one cream + powder blush duo in happiness on apples of cheeks

Set with ck one airlight pressed powder in 200

EYES

Use ck one brow pencil + gel duo in wiley brunette to fill in any sparse areas and elongate brows

Dust ck one powder eyeshadow quad in angel (the blue and silver shades) on lids and along the lower lash line

As an alternative to a traditional black liner, use ck one double-ended eyeliner in candy/poison to make eyes pop

Apply two coats of ck one mascara in show only on upper lashes

LIPS

ck one lipstick in sin city

Makeup 101: Wear Metallics This Fall

Photographer: Camille Rojas Photography, Makeup: Joy David-Tilberg, Hair: Donna Marie De Leon, Model: Masha (Elmer Olson), Photo Assistant: Helen Yinn

Reach for the most luxurious, rich metallics this season. I loved this recent shoot we did. The look I was going for was a mix of ethereal and mermaid. You like? Visit The Joy of Makeup to see how you can wear Fall's metallic trends! 

Makeup 101: How To Wear Fall's Dark Lip

Photographer: Camille Rojas Makeup: Joy David-Tilberg Hair: Donna Marie De Leon Model: Maria (Masha) Elmer Olson Photo Assistant: Helen Yinn

Suddenly reminiscing about the '90's? Check out my tips on how to wear Fall's hottest dark lip shades on The Joy of Makeup! 

Will you be wearing this trend? 

Makeup 101: Crimson Lips For Fall

Photographer: Camille Rojas Makeup: Joy David-Tilberg Hair: Donna Marie De Leon Model: Masha (Elmer Olson) Photo Assistant: Helen Yen

Fall is quickly approaching! I can smell the hot apple cider now...mmm. Check out my How-To feature  on The Joy of Makeup on how to wear one of fall's beauty trend - crimson lips! 

New On The Joy of Makeup: Bridal Trial Inspiration - Megan Fox!

I recently did a bridal trial and her inspiration was this stunning makeup on Megan Fox! Click here to see my version of this look on the beautiful Carla and for a list of products used!

New on The Joy of Makeup: Makeup Breakdown Bride Kristen

Photo Credit: Jennifer Moher Photography

2012 has been a very busy year thus far for weddings! Check out my makeup breakdown on The Joy of Makeup of a recent beautiful bride, Kristen! Enjoy!

Makeup Junkie & Dior Canada Present: Bridal Makeup Workshop With Dior Canada's Senior Artist Fredis V.

What: Bridal Makeup Workshop With Dior Canada's Senior Artist Fredis V.

When: February 5, 2012 

Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Where: 550 Queensquay W., Toronto, ON

Main Floor Party Room (See concierge)

Advance Tickets (until January 25): $100

After January 25 Ticket Price: $120 

(If you wish to pay via Money Email Transfer please contact me at joy[at]makeupjunkie[dot]ca.)
*Tickets are NON-REFUNDABLE unless canceled by host. If you are unable to attend all of a sudden, you may sell your ticket to someone else. 

Bring: Your kit, notepad/pen, and a model. Cameras and video recording are welcomed. 

To Purchase Tickets: http://fredisvbridalworkshop.eventbrite.ca/

Makeup Junkie is proud to host alongside Dior Canada, a bridal makeup workshop for makeup extraordinaire and Dior Canada's Senior Artist, Fredis V.! Attendees will be in for a treat! With wedding season just around the corner, it's the perfect workshop to refresh your bridal skills or to learn some new ones.

The workshop is not only for makeup artists though. If you are a bride getting married this year and thinking about doing your own makeup, this workshop will help you learn the techniques needed in creating a look that is right for you. As a bonus, each attendee will receive a little gift bag with some amazing Dior products!

Working for one of the world's top beauty brands, Fredis knows the hottest trends in bridal makeup. You'll learn how to execute a flawless canvas, how to create the picture-perfect look for your bride, and what techniques are the most efficient and effective. You'll also learn the top bridal makeup trends for 2012! 

About Fredis V.: 

Based in Toronto, Fredis Velasquez is widely known around Canada, as the go-to professional makeup artist among the industry's best. He is one of the most sought after make-up artists in Toronto, who aims to achieve a flawless face, lush lashes, and the perfect brow for his clientele. His exceptional artistry skills allow him to create a luminous glow that is seen on the red-carpets of Hollywood’s elite. Fredis specializes in Editorial, Red Carpet Events, Commercials, Music Videos, and High Profile Weddings. He has more than 14 years of experience as a professional makeup artist and has worked with the most innovative, standard setting, skincare and cosmetics enterprises in the industry.

Fredis' distinct style allows his work to stand out from other makeup artist; making stops at various work venues along the way such as MAKE UP FOR EVER, FRESH, NARS, AVEDA, MAC, Bobbi Brown, Laura Mercier, GIORGIO ARMANI, YSL, Shu Uemura and DIOR Canada including many more! Fredis is currently the Lead Consulting Artist for Dior in Canada. He is dedicated in fulfilling his client’s vision as he pays close attention to detail and enhances natural beauty. His down to earth demeanour makes everyone feel comfortable in his hands, illustrating a contemporary and pure expression that produces an astounding outcome.

www.fredisvelasquez.com

'Like' Fredis on Facebook and follow him on Twitter!

Holiday Lookbook 2011: Say It With Glitter This New Year's!

Wow, it's New Year's Eve already! Unfortunately I can't do a lengthy post - gotta get ready and the kiddies to see some friends! Tonight will be a G-rated event for us, but if you're doing something that involves copious amounts of alcohol, loud music and your 4-inch heels here's a hot New Year's Eve look done by my good friend and makeup extraordinaire, Mila Victoria (miss you Melsie!)! Check out her awesome Youtube video for a glittery gold eye.

Since the Makeup Store products are not available in Canada, why not try Canadian company Lit Cosmetics? They have a gazillion colours to choose from including tons of golds in various tones. For instructions on how to apply click here. 

Whatever you're doing have fun and don't drink and drive. Here's to ending 2011 on a high note and starting the new year on an even higher one! Happy New Year's my lovely makeup junkies! 

What's your perfect New Year's Eve look? What's everyone doing?

Product was sent for editorial consideration and I truly love it.

Makeup 101: Colourful Smokey Eyes For Summer

Makeup Junkie guest contributor, Olivia, has brought you readers another fantastic tutorial! Can you do smokey eyes in the summer? Yes! Throw out your ideas of the classic smokey eye and swipe some colour on those peepers!

Summer fever is upon us and we’re all itching to get out doors. For some that includes a night out on the town sans jacket, sporting your favourite little black dress. My go-to party look is a smoky eye but in the summer I prefer to substitute the blacks, browns and greys for purples, blues and greens. Really the options are endless with a colourful smoky eye. You could keep your signature look but appear more versatile simply by switching the colours. For this look I decided to use a combination of teal, blue and lavender purple with a gold highlight.

As an avid Makeup Junkie reader, the most important lesson I’ve learned is starting every look with a flawless face. I tend to avoid using foundation but after reading Joy’s reviews on tinted moisturizers I thought I would test out the alternative. I’ve been using Tarte’s Smooth Operator, which has a great natural coverage and really evens out my skin without feeling cakey. Then minor imperfections can be corrected with a dab of concealer. Once you have completed your flawless face, follow these simple steps for a vibrant and alluring nighttime look:
 

Step 1: Line top and bottom lash lines and blend with your finger (or smudging brush) for that smoky effect.

Step 2: Start with the darkest colour and blend up towards your crease. Using that same colour, line the outer half of your bottom lash line. Taking the lighter shade, blend into your crease and brow bone. With the lighter shade and a pencil brush (try MAC 219 pencil brush) apply the shadow to the lower lash line in order blend the colours and complete the smoky look. For that extra sparkle, sweep a gold shimmer under your eyebrows.

Step 3: To complete the look, line your waterline with the same liner used to begin the smoky eye. Then apply lots of mascara! Since we want to keep the focus on your eyes, keep cheeks and lips simple by using a touch of bronzer and a light gloss.

Step 4: Throw on that little black dress and you’re good to go!

*Products used on eyes:

- NARS eyeliner in Kaliste

- CARGO Lumieres Du Monde palette (blue, purple and gold shadows used)

Thanks Olivia! I love the softness of the whole look and think it looks gorgeous on her! It's smokey but totally wearable for day. What do you think of this summer smokey eye? Would you wear it?

Makeup 101 Guest Tutorial: Adding A Pop of Colour To Your Everyday Makeup

It's Makeup 101 time! We haven't done in a while so I thought it would be fun to have loyal Makeup Junkie reader, aspiring makeup artist, and friend Olivia, do a fun tutorial. She's young, gorgeous and full of creative ideas. Enjoy!

Spring is here and summer is just around the corner. That means it’s time to ditch the winter wardrobe and bring colour back into the mix. This season is all about bright and bold colours. Make-up should be about accentuating your natural beauty but that doesn’t mean you can’t make your look a little more fun and flirty!

Check out these two looks to spice up your daily routine:

Look 1: This first look is meant to play up a neutral eye. You still maintain a natural look but with the blink of an eye a little daring colour is exposed.

Steps: Begin by sweeping a taupe shadow over the lid. Use the same colour to define your bottom lash line. Then use an orange shadow (such as MAC eyeshadow in Red Brick) to define your crease. To finish off the eyes, line the top and bottom lid with a brown eyeliner (try MAC fluidline in Rich Ground) and apply mascara.

To add colour to your cheeks, mix your orange eyeshadow and a bit of bronzer and blend into the apples of your cheeks and sweeping towards your hairline. I also used a little concealer on my lips to neutralize any pink tone and added tons of gloss.

Look 2: This next look brings spring flare to the classic black eyeliner look.

Steps: Start by adding a skin tone shadow to neutralize the eye such as MAC pigment in Naked. Then line your eyes with red shadow (try Make Up For Ever’s red star powder). Make sure the line is a little thicker than you would normally apply eyeliner so that the red will peak through the black eyeliner. Once you have created a clean red line you can follow that with a thinner line of black eyeliner. It should look something like this:

You can finish the look off by adding white eyeliner to the inner corner of each eye (to brighten your eyes) and adding mascara to the top lashes. You can either leave your lips natural or add a bright red gloss (such as Kat Von D’s Underage Red) for a more dramatic effect.

About Olivia

I’ve been a Makeup Junkie my whole life. It all started when I was a young girl playing with my mom’s empty blush and eyeshadow containers. That soon developed into a Lip Smackers and Bonne Bell obsession. As I grew older I began exploring the many cosmetic brands Shoppers has to offer but when Sephora finally came to Canada I knew I had found home. For years I have hummed and hawed at the possibility of becoming a makeup artist. However, when it came time to choose a career I went with my passion in school, mathematics. Now that I have finished my degree, I finally feel free to pursue my real dreams. Recently an opportunity came up to move to London, England and I just couldn’t resist! While I’m there, I hope to attend the Academy of Freelance Makeup and find out once and for all if I’m cut out for a life in fashion and beauty!

Thank you Olivia for the lovely tutorial and we wish you the best of luck! What do you guys think? Would you wear this look or something similar to it?

Dutchess Kate Is A DIY'er And Apparently Is A Pro!

Kate Middleton toned down her Royal status by doing her own makeup today and I must say she was absolutely glowing! Check out my thoughts on her DIY bridal look and the look I created on a face chart for my bride-to-be tomorrow on my sister site, The Joy of Makeup - she will definitely be getting the royal treatment!

Click here to read the post. Congratulations to the Royal couple!

Makeup 101: New Year's Eve Makeup That Will Last

Happy New Year! I raise my glass to the end of 2010! What a year it has been for myself and pretty much everyone I know. 2010 was full of crazy bumps but despite it all, I've come out with a much clearer head. I've failed, succeeded, but above all learned from each and every one of those significant moments in my life. I'm excited for 2011 for more reasons than one and can't wait to get this party started!

Sorry peeps, this was the best close-up photo I could get of myself. This was taken on Christmas Eve close to the end of the night, but figured if you want makeup that will ring you into the new year then you'll want to read up on the long-wearing products I used!

Star Products: 

 

Top Left: Make Up For Ever Aqua Cream in Steel #2 ($26 CAD):  You want a shadow that won't budge? MUFE's Aqua Creams are a dream! I used this as the base of my shadow, on the lid, inner corner, and lower lash line. I wanted a warm, charcoal-silver smokey eye with a hint of shimmer. Steel is a gorgeous silver with an almost taupe undertone. I prefer this over a true silver as it looks too cool on my warm skin tone. The Aqua Creams are budge-proof and set pretty quickly. They apply really easy onto the skin but you have to blend it really quickly. The finishes are pretty shimmery, but when paired with a matte shadow the shimmer is toned down. It would be great if matte shades were introduced to the line - fingers crossed!

Top Right: M.A.C. Eye Shadow in Print ($17.50 CAD) This one is an oldie but a goody! Print is one of my beloved true greys. I find some greys either have too much blue or too much black. It's not quite a matte but has a more satin finish. I applied this close to the top and bottom lash line, outer lid, and crease. M.A.C. as always delivers on amazing pigment, doesn't crease or fade, and blends so easily. 

Middle: Sephora Favourites The Little Black Eye Liner Kit ($36 USD): Like an LBD, every woman should own at least one black eye liner. This set includes 7 of Sephora's most essential black eye liners plus an eye brush from the following brands: 

• 0.02 oz Smashbox Limitless Eye Liner in Onyx
• 0.07oz Tarte EmphasEYES Waterproof Clay ShadowLiner in Black
• 0.005 oz Tarte EmphasEYES Inner Eye Rim Pencil in Black
• 0.02 oz Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Zero
• 0.06oz Sephora Collection Jumbo Eye Liner in Grey
• 0.003 oz Hourglass Calligraphy Liquid Eye Liner in Ebony
• 0.025 oz Make Up Forever Aqua Eyes in Black
• Smashbox Eye Liner Brush 

For this look I reached for one of my favourite liners, Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Pencil in Zero. I didn't want an obvious line so I lined underneath my top lash line, smudged it close into my lash line, and along my waterline. To make the liner last in the waterline, line, wait for it to set, then line again. I have more reviews to come from this kit! 

Bottom: Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm in Tiger Lily ($7.99 CAD): My night started out with NARS Pure Matte Lipstick in Bangkok and Orgasm Gloss, but as the night wore on it was my Burt's Bees Tinted Lip balm in Tiger Lily (not pictured) that my dry lips longed for and is the lippie shown on myself. I have been using this non-stop ever since I received it and I can't wait to snatch all of them up! Sadly, we'll have to wait until February 2011 to purchase these. 

It comes in six shades: Honeysuckle (nude), Tiger Lily (peach-nude), Pink Blossom (soft pink), Hibiscus (rosy pink), Rose (red) and Red Dahlia (wine). It's 100% natural and is made from natural botanical flower waxes (ylang-ylang and jasmine), Shea Butter, Vitamin E and Beeswax. I adore the pear scent. It's a nice change from the common minty and vanilla flavours of so many other lip products out there. The packaging is simple and true to the Burt's Bee's line, but I love that they didn't go with their traditional yellow honeycomb packaging. The lip balm comes encased in a lovely cardboard tube package which I just love! The texture is super smooth and will help keep your lips moisturized all night long. For a sheer tint, you definitely see colour on the lips. Tiger Lily was the perfect peachy-nude for my smokey eye.

To check out another great review visit this site. 

Complete List of Products: 

Skin: 

Embroylisse Moisturizer

MUFE HD Primer Perfection

Face Atelier Ultra Foundation #7

Tarte Mineral Powder

Benefit Erase Paste in #3 (under eyes)

Cheeks:

Smashbox Halo Bronzer (all over and as a contour)

NARS Douceur Blush on cheeks

Eyes: 

Too Faced Shadow Insurance Primer

MUFE Aqua Cream #2 Steel

M.A.C. Print Eye Shadow

UD 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Zero

New Maybelline Mascara (Review to come but I think I'm actually loving it!)

Lips: 

First half of the night: NARS Pure Matte Lipstick in Bangkok and Orgasm Gloss

Second half: Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm in Tiger Lily (available February 2011)

For New Year's definitely amp it up by adding more shimmer or a glittery silver liner. Add a pair of falsies to make your peepers stand out more.

What do you think of this look? What's on your look book for New Year's?

I hope everyone has a safe and an amazing New Year! Thank you to all my readers, friends, and family that have been through it all with me. I cherish your love and support more than you will ever know. I won't bore you with any NY resolutions because we've heard them all. Wishing you all much love, happiness and success for 2011! Cheers!

Products were sent for editorial consideration with the exception of M.A.C. Print. I really love all these products.

12 Days of Holiday Beauty: Festive Party Nails

I used to think glittery polishes were oh-so-80's, but then when I kept thinking about how I wanted to do my nails for Christmas visions of blinging glittery nails popped in my head. I didn't want to do the traditional classic red or reach for my deep purple shades. All I knew was that I wanted to do something a little different, a little edgy.

I went to all the stores on the hunt for a glittery polish and what do you know, all but one store was sold out! Guess I wasn't the only one who wanted a little bling on the nails. I originally wanted gold glitter but then I saw this adorable mini set from Nicole by OPI Tinsel Tips for $12.99 CAD at Shoppers Drug Mart. Since I wouldn't normally wear a glitter polish a mini bottle is all I really needed. This would definitely make the perfect stocking stuffer! The set includes: 

• Jewel Nail Decals
• Spark My Mistletoe (red glitter pictured on my nails)
• Stuck In The Chimney (gorgeous shimmering plum)
• Kiss Me At Midnight (deep chocolate with red shimmer)

This is my version of edgy festive party nails - red glitter over a plain black polish. Glitter should stand out on its own. Layering it over black is the perfect way for a glitter polish to stand out. I generally don't like plain black nails but a glittery polish brightens it up. 

The black polish is from Barry M. Cosmetics, a popular cosmetic line from the U.K. It's the first product I've ever tried from the line and I have to say I am impressed with how opaque and non-streaky their polishes apply. It's only my first day wearing it so I'm not sure how long it will stay chip-free but there will be more reviews to come. The line is not available in Canada but if you want to see Barry M. in Canada join the Facebook page here.

What do you think of my festive party nails? Too edgy or goth for a nice Christmas dinner?

12 Days of Holiday Beauty: Side-Pinned Wavy Hair

 

Photo Credit: InStyle.com

Nothing says party hair then a head of beautiful wavy curls. This is one look I do often when I'm stepping out to a special event.

You'll want to start with lots of volume in the hair. The key to making this hair less cute and more Victoria Secret-esque is to do big curls. Apply a volumizing spray or mousse to the root of the hair and blow dry the root up if styling from wet. You can use your hands to direct the hair up. Once the hair is completely dry, wrap 1 inch sections of your hair around a big barrel curling iron. Always curl your hair away from the face unless you're going for Old Hollywood. Curling away from the face makes it look more modern and up-to-date. If your hair doesn't hold a curl too well, use a light hold hairspray and spray as you go. If you have straight bangs you'll want to curl your bangs away from your head as well. You want to avoid looking like you have to different hair styles.

If you don't have a big barrel iron, use your small one and at the end brush out your curls to make them look big and bouncy. Once your hair is completely curled, pin one side up. Be creative and add a twist to the hair and secure with a sparkly hair brooch. When you are satisfied with the look, spray all over with an extra hold hair spray.

What's your go-to party hair style?

12 Days of Holiday Beauty: Silver Smokey Eyes

 

Photo Credit: marieclaire.com

It's the final countdown! Only 3 more days left until Christmas! I'm hoping by now you have lots of beauty looks to choose from for your big Christmas party. This next look is both edgy and sexy for the holiday season. Take the classic smokey eye and add a metallic finish for a new twist.

Silver smokey eyes look great on just about everyone. This sultry look is actually really easy to do. In the beginning, smokey eyes can be really messy. I like to prep the eyes first and save the foundation for last. Be sure to prep your eyes always with a primer. You don't want your shadow creasing or fading throughout the night. When doing a smokey eye, you want the effect to look like a gradient of colours. Use a flat shadow brush and press on the darkest shade of charcoal grey on the lid. Choose a shadow that has more of a satin finish. You can bring the dark shade into the outer crease as well. Apply a matte medium grey to the crease with a fluffier brush to blend the two shades together. You can also apply the medium grey to the bottom lash line for a smudgy definition. Then apply a white or light beige shade to the brow bone.

To give the smokey eye a metallic finish, apply a silver metallic shadow in the inner corners top and bottom. Add the same shade just to the center of the lid to make the eyes pop. Skip liner on the top and bottom and only line the waterline with a black pencil. Don't forget to apply a few coats of black mascara. Since this is a strong eye, keep the rest of your face more muted. Contour the cheeks with a neutral blush or bronzer and add a nude beige lipstick or gloss to the lips.

What do you think of silver smokey eyes? Do you find a smokey eye hard to do?

12 Days of Holiday Beauty: Ruby Red Lips!

Photo Source: Style.com

Holiday beauty wouldn’t be the same if I didn’t mention the classic red lip! The colour red is fiery, exciting, and all-around glamorous. It’s such a striking colour you have to be confident to carry it off. You’ll be seeing a lot of Old Hollywood makeup inspirations this season, but there are ways to make it look different and fresh.

I love the above photo because the model’s skin is luminous and her eyes are pretty much bare. The deepness of the red is also stunning against the neutral makeup. This version of wearing red is modern and a little edgy. Mix a luminizing highlighter or serum with your foundation to give your skin a natural glow. Add a wash of silvery-white or champagne gold shadow to the lids. If your eyes need more definition, smudge a black pencil liner to the lash line and apply a few coats of mascara to the lashes. Define the contours of your cheeks with a bronzer or wine coloured blush. Wear a wine-coloured red lipstick as a stain for an effortless finish.

Instead of going with a classic red lipstick, try one that has a shimmery or pearly finish. If you prefer a gloss, look for a red shade in the same finish for a new twist on red lips. Just remember to prep your lips with a primer so that the gloss doesn’t bleed or softly line the lips with a red liner after you’ve applied your gloss. This will give a softer finish.

If you have never tried red lips, the holiday season is the time to try it out! It’s fun, festive, and washes off! ;)

12 Days of Holiday Beauty: Jewel-Toned Eyes!

 

Photo Credit: marieclaire.com

I love the holidays because colours around this time are so rich and decadent. You’ll notice a lot of colours dominating shadow palettes this season are jewel tones in blue, purple, gold, and emerald. If you’re still on the fence about wearing colour on the eyes, just go with it and have fun!

The key to working jewel tones is to stick to a shade that compliments and enhances your eye colour. Once you see how much the complimentary shade brings out your eyes, the less uncomfortable you’ll feel wearing colour on the eyes.

• Brown Eyes can pretty much wear any shade. Purple, green, navy blue, and gold all make brown eyes pop.
• Green or Hazel Eyes: Plum, peach, purple, gold and bronze hues
• Blue Eyes: Brown, peach, bronze, gold, silver, grey, purple, black

Add a darker shade in the outer crease to give it a sexy, smoky effect. For some fun and sparkle, add a glittery liner to the lash line. Don’t forget to add lots of mascara to make those lashes stand out! Keep the cheeks and lips more muted so that the eyes can be the focus.

What do you think of jewel tones on the eyes?