Summer Faves: Bronzers

You don't have to be "Jenny from the Block" to get that J-Lo bronzey glow. I am all for bronzers when it's done right (sorry Snooki!). There's just something about a summer tan that makes everyone look healthy, gorgeous and radiant! The key to a natural looking tan is to stick to bronzers that have a golden undertone rather than an orange base. You want to avoid the "Jersey" tan at all costs! Use a fluffy powder brush and apply bronzer on the forehead, cheeks, bridge of nose, and chin. 

Get gorgeous this summer with some of my favourite bronzers this season!

1. YSL Terre Saharienne in No. 2 Copper Sand ($60 CDN): This is pure luxury in a bronzer. The bronzer is formulated with the new "Sun Radiance" pigments which capture the light and diffuse a golden reflection in all directions (don't all bronzers do that?). What I love about this bronzer is that it imparts a natural glow to the skin rather than a shimmer. It blends amazingly onto the skin so no streaky tan lines! It's available in 3 shades: Sand (fair to medium skin tones), Copper Sand (med-dark to dark) and Golden Sand (medium to medium-dark). Copper Sand is my favourite. I get really dark in the summer so the warmth of the copper undertone enhances my tan nicely. The price tag is very steep so I'd only recommend if you are a YSL junkie or you feel like splurging on a bronzer ( a staple in my books). 

2. Smashbox Halo Hydrating Perfecting Bronzer ($39 USD): After being a fan of the Halo Hydrating Perfecting Powder (you can read review here) I knew I would instantly love this bronzer. It gives all the same softening, luminous effects as the powder just with a lovely bronzey hue. It is designed to minimize the signs of aging over time while hydrating your skin. This one-shade suits all gives me the perfect tan, however, I'm not sure how it appears on darker skin tones so I would be interested to hear if anyone has tried it. The finish on the skin is more sheen than shimmer which I love. I found the packaging of the original powder very bulky but the bronzer comes in the same shaver-dispense design in a travel-friendly size. The price is still a bit steep for a bronzer but you can double as a shadow!

3. Everyday Minerals Hiking Everest in Heels Blush/Bronzer Duo ($12 USD): If you're looking for value in a bronzer then look no further. This vegan, all-natural line has quality products at affordable prices. Love the name of this bronzer duo. You not only can achieve a faux tan with this pressed powder but the other side is a peachy-coral blush. Gorgeous! At the moment, this is only available in the On The Reef, Coral Collection which is a definite must-have. For $34, you get a sweet collection of loose eye shadows, blushes, face powder, lippie and brushes with a reusable canvas tote included. 

4. Mary Kay LE Cooling Bronzing Stick ($25 CDN): There's all this buzz right now about Mary Kay's newest crop of products. This line has been around for ages but is slowly replacing the "granny" image to suit a much younger makeup-loving audience. The cooling sensation of this bronzing stick could not be more perfect for the hot steamy weather. It has the creamy texture of a cream but the staying power of a gel stain. The finish is high-shimmer which is perfect for highlighting the cheekbones and bridge of nose. Great for giving the skin a dewy finish. However, if you plan to use it as a blush prepare for lots of shine. If you have imperfect skin, I would stay clear as it will only accentuate blemishes. To tone done the shimmer and for extra staying power, dust a translucent powder over top. If you're in a hurry, swipe on the lids and lips! 

As for the price, I was actually surprised it is $25. I've never bought anything from Mary Kay in the past. If you love NARS The Multiple, this could be a cheaper dupe for South Beach. (Limited quantities while supplies last. Offer expires September 15, 2010.)

Have you tried these products? Love 'em? Hate 'em? Want 'em? 

AM 590

Okay Ladies, can I please just tell you that radio is SO much fun??? I was ShAkInG in my boots when we were going on air but Tami and Aaron made me feel so at ease =). You can click here to listen if you missed it. I am recorded under the June 16th sound bite.

AM 590 Tips Cosmetics Brushes

Cosmetics brushes can make or break your look but they can be pricey when purchased at department stores. Well never fear!!!! You can buy duplicate craft store brushes made from the same natural fibers (goat hair) as you will find at MAC. Here is a list of ones I use EvErYday:

Maxine's Mop (by Loew Cornell) 3/8" is a duplicate for MAC's #239 brush. The 239 is $24.50 and the Maxine's Mop is $3.95. What a STEAL right??? Right now till June 20th if you click here you can get it for $2.77 and even enter the code DAD1 and get 10% off your entire order!!!!! This also applies for the Maxine's Mini Mop, the 1/2" and 1" Mops. Love them all!!! I even got mine signed by Maxine...yeah, I'm a nerd =).

This is the Loew Cornell 1/4" Rose Petal Brush. I use this for my eyebrows and couldn't AdOrE it more!!! You can buy it in stores for around $5.00 but click here to get it for $3.09!!!

You can click on that most recent link to also find these great Loew Cornell brushes for powder and blush needs. The XXL Round Mop at $10.25 (on sale at the second link for $6.15) compares to MAC's #150 which will run you $42. For blush, MAC has the #129 at $34 but good 'ole Loew Cornell comes through with the Large Round Mop at $7.89 (on sale at the second link for $4.73).

Now this next one is also one of my all time FAVS as this is what I use EvErYday for my liquid last liner from MAC. This is the Loew Cornell 1/8" Angular Shader brush. In stores for $5.79, but here for $2.90.

There are also some great brush sets that can be found at the Coastal Scents site. This 13 piece set is only $16.95 and got a 4 out of 5 star rating.

At Target I LOVE the Sonia Kashuk line, especially this brush which I mostly use for cream blush application. It was $14.99 and worth every penny!!!

I want to stress that there are cheap brushes everywhere but with most, you get what you pay for. These I have used, tested and reviewed and have found them to be worthy of notice. I haven't had ANY bristles fall out (HUGE pet peeve!) and they all blend really well. I recommend them and hope to hear how you liked them as well.

First day of my last year of school...

First day of school... I'm in my senior year at college. At last! It's been a long journey getting here... now I just hope I can do my best so that I can graduate on time (I'll be 20. Gosh!).


Because it was the start of a new semester and I pretty much had just gone through a complete image change, I wanted to look pretty and fresh without my makeup being overbearing. So all I put on was loose powder, blush, eyeshadow/liner and mascara. I also filled in my brows. I just used a tinted lip balm for my lips.



There's a closeup of my eyes.


So far my first day of school was great, except for when I got home. it started raining REALLY REALLY hard, and it was so windy... I got stranded at a place near where I live, standing under a shop's canopy while holding onto my umbrella since the wind blew the rainwater everywhre anyway. Lightning kept striking and we even saw it hit the ground on a road nearby. It started flooding soon and something really gross happened--all the RATS and ROACHES ran out of the sewers and towards us! It was a horror show. What a way to end my first day. I had my mom pick me up then, and luckily she came before it got too flooded (it was ankle deep when she arrived).

But oh well, at least I got awesome professors in two of my subjects. I can't say the same thing about the other subject I had today, one of my profs is supposed to be a terror...and she admitted to it too. Oh gosh. T-T

That's all for today loves, I'll be back with a more substantial post soon!

Makeup Junkie Wants To Know Poll and CARGO Contest!

As a makeup artist, I am fortunate enough to do the faces of some pretty amazing women. They all range from non-makeup wearers to I-can't-live-without-my-makeup fanatics. I love both type of clients - no I really do. It's fun gabbing about makeup and different makeup techniques with avid makeup wearers but the real fun is converting someone who rarely wears makeup and making them true believers!

Makeup Junkie wants to know how often do you get your makeup done? Only on special occasions - birthdays, weddings, prom? Or do you get your makeup done to pamper yourself? New makeup launch? And are fake lashes involved? Do you prefer your makeup done at a counter, salon, spa, or have a makeup artist come to you? Makeup Junkie wants to know it all! 

All you have to do is leave a comment (be as thorough as you'd like!) and you will be automatically entered to win a year supply of CARGO's 3 Triple Action Mascara set to launch Fall 2010! The 3 is formulated to do it all - thicken, lengthen, and curl! This mascara is loaded with anti-oxidants and 11 amino acids essential for the health of hair follicles. It's good for you and it makes you look great! (Stay tuned for my review.)

One winner will be randomly chosen and will be announced on June 30th at 12 pm! I look forward to your comments! Open to Canadian and U.S. residents. My girl, Farah, over at Faces By Farah, is also giving away the 3 Mascara so you can double your chances of winning this mascara before it launches!

CARGO 3 Triple Action Mascara will retail for $20 USD/CDN. Available Fall 2010 at Murale, Sears Toronto Eaton Centre, the Bay on Yonge St., and select Independent Beauty Boutiques.

www.cargocosmetics.com

Beauty Feature: Tokyo Meets Luminato For Shu Uemura

The Luminato festivities have begun in Toronto and there are many beauty events to get your beauty fix! Tomorrow, June 16, you can discover the Tokyo vibe with Shu Uemura at the Yonge and Dundas Square from 11 am - 11 pm. Come and observe principal artist, Taca Ozawa, demonstrate the true Art of Japanese Beauty. This is the perfect time to indulge in their wide array of luxury faux lashes (application free with lash purchase)! 

In the evening enjoy musical performances from Japanese pop divas:

7:45: De De Mouse

8:50: The Moist Towelettes 

9:30: Maki Nomiya

Don't fret if you miss out on the festivities at Dundas Square. Visit the Shu Uemura counter at Holt Renfrew from June 17th to June 20th. With any purchase of $150, you will receive a unique Shu Uemura gift. 

Holt Renfrew, 50 Bloor Street West

Thursday - Friday 10 AM - 8 PM
Saturday 10 AM - 7 PM
Sunday 12 PM - 6 PM

Call to book your appointment 416.922.2333.

It's no secret that Shu Uemura's lash curler is a staple in my kit, but I've discovered a new favourite from the Gem Glam Summer collection! Be sure to check it out!

Shu Uemura Gem Glam Cream Eye Shadow in Pearl Light Pink ($36 CAD): I love cream shadows especially if they are waterproof. Shu Uemura's version is a light-weight shadow with a smooth texture that is easy to blend. This crease-proof shadow is great on its own for a subtle natural finish or can be layered underneath a powder shadow for a high-intensity finish. Layering cream shadows underneath a powder is one of my favourite makeup techniques. 

Pearl Light Pink is soft, sweet and feminine. It has a gorgeous shimmery finish. Use it as a base shade with chocolate browns, purple-plums, or charcoal greys. Highlight the inner corners and brow bone to open the eyes. Make it edgy with kohl liner smudged on top and bottom. It's a versatile product that definitely stands up to the heat! 

Have you tried this product? Love it? Hate it? Want it? 

www.shuuemura-usa.com

Beauty Feature: Lancome L'Absolu Rouge Lipstick Limited Edition Fast Kisses by Designer Mark Fast

I had posted my summer faves for lips a few posts back (click here) featuring more muted shades of nudes, peaches, pinks and corals. Well, I think I have found one of my favourite lip colours of all time! Hall of famer? I think so! Yes, I have had many lip affairs in the past - glosses, lipsticks, tinted lip balms, lip stains - you name it. But Lancome's L'Absolu Rouge Lipstick in Fast Kisses has stolen my heart!

Before I give you the background, I have to mention right away that Fast Kisses is a LE and only available online and at The Bay Queen Street in Toronto from June 17 - 19 (or until stock runs out)! If you're in the Toronto area you won't want to miss The Bay Lancome beauty event where you can get your makeup done, meet Lancome makeup artist Lora Spiga and designer Mark Fast, and most importantly get your hands on this must-have lipstick! Spots are limited so call to book your appointment at 416-861-4572 x.176!

Hand-picked by Fast and Spiga, the very limited edition of L’Absolu Rouge Lipstick has been named FAST KISSES by Fast himself. Spiga has collaborated with fashion designer Fast to create a make-up look complementing the knitwear garment he designed exclusively for Luminato to reinterpret Lancôme’s iconic rose and femininity.

When I first saw the press release, I thought what's so different about the colour? The photo really does not do this colour justice. It just looks red in the photo. In person and on the lips - STUNNING! Fast Kisses is a fuchsia pink and the perfect marriage of red and pink. The hue is very blue-based and would look AH-mazing on fair to deep dark beauties! It's one of those shades that perk up your complexion and make your teeth look whiter. I wore it to work yesterday as a stain which I pressed into my lips with my finger and I don't think I received so many compliments on a lipstick in my life! One girl said "it just gives you enough oomph without looking overdone".I kept the look simple with bronzy shadows, lots of mascara, bronzer, and put all the focus on my lips!

The texture and pigment is very rich, hydrating and definitely lasts for 8 hours! The only thing I am not a fan of is the rose scent but at least it does not linger for too long. There are not enough words to describe this amazingness - you just have to go and check it out for yourself! Since it's an LE, I may have to visit The Bay to stock up!

L’Absolu Rouge in FAST KISSES will be available in limited quantities at www.lancome.ca/markfast (Shop the limited edition) and at Toronto Bay Queen from June 17 to June 19 or until stock runs out. Retails for $35 CAD.

Luminato: Mark Fast Interpreting The Rose
From June 11th to June 20th
Brookfield Place
181 Bay Street
Toronto, ON
M5J 2T3