Red Lipstick Quick Tip!!

Hi everyone!!!  Last time, I mentioned I was going to try to be more diligent about putting up a post at least once a week, but I apologize for not having kept to that promise.  Again, my routine has been turned upside down with a string of guests visiting me from overseas.  Don't get me wrong, I love visitors but it has been hard to find some time to write and play with makeup!!!

This morning, I was getting ready for work and as I've mentioned in previous posts, when I've hit snooze on the alarm clock way too many times and I just don't have a lot of time to get ready, I like to keep it simple with one eyeshadow colour on my eyes and a brighter lipstick to create a more polished look. 

Today, I felt like using my MAC Red lipstick.  This is a really thick and heavy lipstick that is more suitable for an evening look.  It's an intense red and is one of those lipsticks that requires soap and water to remove unless you want to go to bed looking like the the Joker from the Dark Knight. 

In order to make the lipstick appear less intense for a daytime look, instead of applying it the way I usually do, by running the lipstick across my lips, I dabbed the colour on instead.  You don't need to use your fingers to dab the colour on, just dab the lipstick directly onto your lips. 

The layer of lipstick on your lips will be thinner and the look will be more sheer than if you applied your lipstick the usual way.  This is a great way to apply a more intense colour without your lips looking like you've got too much lipstick on. 

So next time you're drawn to a dramatic lipstick colour, don't steer clear of it.  Try dabbing it on for a more natural finish!! 

Super Quick Green Eyeliner Every Day Look!

As I promised last week, I would write at least one blog a week to fill you all in on what's going on in my little makeup world.  I also did mention that the blog posts had halted temporarily due to the fact that I was trying to juggle work, gym and the blog.  After being a housewife for over two years, balancing all of this has proved to be a bit of a challenge.  With this change in schedule getting ready for work in the morning has also required some shortcuts here and there.

I try to get at least eight hours of sleep every single night of the week.  So, when I have a later night than usual, I tend to get up a little later too, giving me less time for my morning routine.  I still believe it looks quite unprofessional to go to work without some kind of makeup on so even when I'm in a rush, I won't sacrifice that.

Therefore, in this blog, I wanted to share with you my super speedy 5 minute every day eye makeup look.

In addition to my usual BB cream base, blush and highlighter which can be applied in under 5 minutes,  I like to use just one eyeshadow colour when I'm in a rush.

My colour of choice is usually MAC eyeshadow in Mulch.  It's a dark brown that can be used for a smokey eye look or blended out for a very natural finish.

Along with my usual black mascara, I pair the single colour with a beautiful green eyeliner.  My favourite at the moment is the Velvet Touch Eyeliner from Gosh Cosmetics in Woody Green.  It's waterproof and lasts through the day without smudging.  I love the colour as well.  It's a deep green that is noticeably green but subtle at the same time.

Together with the brown eyeshadow, it adds a nice pop of colour to an incredibly simple look.

Because the eyes are so simple and neutral, I also like to brighten the look with my Belladonna Intense Lipgloss from Illamasqua.

It's such a simple look that takes just ten minutes in total but it just brightens up my whole face and makes me look completely refreshed for work.

For more information on what you can do with coloured eyeliners, you can also go to my previous blog titled Playful Eyeliners.

Note:  For those of you wondering, it does look like I cut my hair in this photo but I did not.  Just my bangs.  

How to Make Foundation Last Through The Day!!!

If you have oily skin or live in a country that is incredibly hot, your foundation will most likely melt before the day is even half way over.  You've probably tried applying loose powder over your foundation but noticed your makeup still runs.  Well, like me, you probably need a little bit more help.  Layering is a great way to help your foundation stay longer.  Here is what I do to keep my foundation fresh all day. 

Layer 1:

I don't usually use a primer, just any moisturizer I am using at the time.  For foundation, I am currently using a Missha BB cream, mixed with MAC Studio Fix Fluid in NC 45 to match the colour to my skin tone.  You don't have to choose the same foundation.  However, oily skinned folks should opt for oil free foundation.  If you haven't read up on BB creams yet, I don't recommend just buying from any brand.  Some of them may actually make your skin oilier.  Do your research on which is most suitable for your skin type.

Layer 2:

Next, I like to apply a powder foundation over my liquid foundation.  My favourits is MAC Studio fix Powder.  In order not to have a thick, cakey mask-like finish, instead of using the sponge that the product comes with, I like to use my duo fibre brush.  It just helps to apply a thin and even layer of product that holds the liquid foundation in place. 

Layer 3:

A loose translucent powder or a compact powder applied with a large powder brush will hold all of it together without adding any extra thickness to your base. 

Throughout the day:

Oil can still sneak up to the surface of your skin throughout the day.  In order to keep it under control, I suggest using a blotting powder when necessary.  My favourite is from MAC and it's the blot powder in medium dark!

Give layering a try.  It really does work.  

My Makeup Pick of the Month!!!

MAC Lipstick in MAC Red!!!!

This is officially my first red lipstick.  I've never owned anything quite so red and to be honest, I wasn't sure I liked red lipstick on anyone let alone myself!!!  It's very trendy but a trend that women tend to love and men tend to hate!!!  I didn't dislike it because of that but it is rather bold and makes quite a statement!  However, this is a look that has grown on me and I realized that it can look very classic when paired with extremely nude eyes and simple hair.

Similar to other MAC lipsticks, this one does not dry out my lips.  It has a satin finish which is neither glossy nor shimmery but gives lips a nice dewy finish.  I love the texture, finish and the colour.

And...I got it for free!!!  You can get yours for free too with MAC's recycling program!!!  Collect 6 empty MAC containers (not the boxes that they are sold in but the plastic or glass containers that stores the product) and trade them in for any lipstick of your choice.  This is practiced all over the world, in every MAC store. 

Big Dolly Eyes!!!

Last week, I went on a rant about the whole dolly eyes trend in Asia.  Well, I've never really tried the look before but there are countless tutorials on YouTube that teach you how to do it.  Here is my guide to my version of the look.

The general idea is to create an illusion of deep set eyes.  If you already have deep set eyes you can skip to eyeliner after applying your eyeshadow how you normally would.

If you have narrow eyelids like I do or have monolids, you can create the illusion of deep set eyes by applying your darkest colour in the area where your eye socket goes in, just below your brow bone.  This would be the area where your eyelids would recede if you had deep set eyes.  Apply this colour on your outer corners too.

When using eyeliner, extend it past the natural edges of your eyes and bring the eyeliner down, lining only the outer area of your lower lash line.  Use white eyeliner on your water line.

Highlight the inner corners of your eyes and put on some false eyelashes.

Many girls will wear circle lenses to complete the look but since lasik surgery a few years ago, I'm afraid of wearing any type of contact lens.

Use blush only on the apples of your cheeks and a pink glossy lipstick to finish off the look.

Important tip:  If you want to to create a more voluminous but natural eyelash look, instead of wearing a chunky pair of false lashes, use the criss-cross type instead but double them up.

What I used:

FACE: Missha Perfect M BB Cream in #31, MAC Studio Fix Fluid in NC45, MAC Studio Fix Powder in NC43, MAC contour powder in Shadester, Benefit Cosmetics Watts Up

EYES: MAC Prep and Prime in medium, MAC Paintpot in Bare Study, MAC eyeshadows in Pink Freeze and Satellite Dreams, Dior Show waterproof pencil eyeliner in black, Kryolan eyeshadow in white, N17 eyebrow pencil in natural brown, 2 pairs of criss-cross eyelashes

CHEEKS: Clinique blush in Iced Lotus

LIPS: MAC lipstick in Angel, Forever 21 clear lipgloss

My 2012 Makeup Wish List!!!

In 2011 I tried out several new makeup products.  My Benefit Cosmetics Watt's Up highlighter and K-Palette 1 Day Tattoo Real Lasting Eyeliner became my all time favourites.  This year, I have my eye on several products that I've heard great reviews about as well as some products that I've wanted for a while but never got around to getting.  Here is my 2012 wish list!!! 

1) Revlon Colourburst Lip Butter lipsticks
(http://www.revlon.com/Revlon-Home/Products/Lips/Lipcolor/Revlon-ColorBurst-Lip-Butter.aspx)

This product has been around for a little while internationally but has not come to the UK.  Bloggers have been raving about this product and I heard it should be here by March 2012.  It's said to be an amazing lipstick that moisturizes and gives lips a beautiful, dewy colour!! 

2) MAC 182 Buffer Brush
(http://www.google.co.uk/products/catalog?q=mac+182+buffer+brush+reviews&hl=en&prmd=imvns&resnum=4&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_cp.,cf.osb&biw=1366&bih=649&um=1&ie=UTF-8&tbm=shop&cid=7388240362358743526&sa=X&ei=a_UBT_SqI4mphAe389GqAQ&ved=0CFYQ8wIwAA)

This type of brush is also called a Kabuki brush.  It's usually used to blend powder products such as loose mineral powder foundation.  However, Kim Kardashian's makeup artist uses it to apply her cream blush and foundation and it works beautifully, giving her that gorgeous, natural looking glow she has.  I've been using a cheap Kabuki brush and it's time for an upgrade. 

3) Inglot Eyeshadow Palette
(http://www.inglotcosmetics.com/eye.shadow/products/146/165)

This is a Scandinavian makeup company that was never available in any of the countries I've lived in previously.  However, they are available in Europe, Asia and North America and have been a cult favourite for quite some time.  They are said to have professional quality, long-lasting eyeshadow.  What makes them unique is their "Freedom System".  You can create your own palettes and it's cheaper than just buying individual colours separately. 


4) MAC Lipstick in Red, Russian Red or Chilli (http://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/product/shaded/168/310/Lips/Lipstick/Lipstick/index.tmpl)

Every girl should have a classic red lipstick.  It suits every skin tone and on days where you want a glamorous and polished look but don't have too much time, a red lipstick is the perfect solution.  Paired with simple eye makeup, it will dress you up with minimal effort.

5) Illamasqua Intense Lipgloss in Belladonna (http://www.illamasqua.com/shop/catalogue/category/lips/products/intense-lipgloss/28/)

This colour is a little brighter than what I normally use but it's gorgeous.  It is said to last for hours, even after eating and drinking.  Best of all, it's not sticky!!

6) L'Oreal Infallible Eyeshadow
(http://www.loreal-paris.co.uk/cosmetics/eyes/color-infallible.aspx)

This is another product I have heard great reviews about.  It's an extremely affordable eyeshadow with a range of intense colours that are said to last all day long. 

 And that's my wish list for 2012!!! 

I'm sure this list will get bigger as I start to read about and discover future makeup launches but these are just some of the products I've been reading about and can't wait to try!!!  Products that are raved about by bloggers all over the world usually end up being as amazing as they sound.  I would recommend you try any of these too and let me know what you think about them if you get to them before I do!!! 

Radiant Light Traveller!!!

At this point, you have all probably gathered with the family, stuffed your faces silly and maybe drank a little bit too much.  After all the partying and family madness, I know many of you have planned a relaxing getaway.  No matter where you are, sun or snow, you always feel good when you look your best.  But with all the craziness of Christmas travel, you want to pack light to avoid the long line ups at the check in counter or even worse, the airline losing your luggage in all the chaos.  Trying to fit everything can be frustrating so here are some tips on how to bring your makeup with you, look radiant and refreshed on your holidays and keep the frustration of trying to fit your cosmetics to a minimum.

The number one way to save space is to bring products that have multiple uses.  These are my holiday makeup must-haves!

1) BB Cream: This is an all in one foundation, tone corrector, anti-aging cream and sunblock.  This product usually has an SPF of 30++ minimum.  BB creams are great because there are so many benefits in just one bottle. 


2) Cream highlighter:  I've mentioned before how highlighting can make you look instantly refreshed.  Don't leave the highlighter at home.  Bring a cream highlighter like Benefit Cosmetic's Watt's Up because it doubles up as a highlighter and a base for for your eyeshadow.

3) Eyeshadow:  Bring one natural coloured eyeshadow.  If you want to skip out on this, you can just use your highlighter on your eyes.  It will instantly brighten them.

4) Eyebrow pencil:  Your eyebrow pencil is usually in some shade of brown.  This is a great item to bring as it can double up as an eyeliner.  Even if you're used to wearing black eyeliner, a brown will give you great definition as well, but look appropriately natural.


5) Natural coloured lipstick:  This is a good one to bring.  Lipstick can also be used on the cheeks, as a blusher.  Apply some lipstick on your cheeks and blend it out with your fingers.  If you feel the texture of your lipstick is a little dry, use a little bit of moisturizer to help you spread the colour.

6) Mascara:  Bring a waterproof mascara with you if you're going to the beach so it doesn't run or smudge when you go in the water.  You can skip out on the eyelash curler too.  Use a teaspoon from your hotel room.  Press your eyelashes between the teaspoon and your thumb.  Trust me, it works!!!

7) Compact powder:  This is optional and only  if you have oily skin and going somewhere tropical. 

There you go!!   An extremely natural and refreshed look!

And it's just 6 or 7 small items that fit perfectly into a teeny, tiny makeup pouch.  Skip out on the makeup brushes too.  All you need are your fingers!!!

Matching Eyeshadow Colours: Day 3

Smokey eyes can be achieved with a whole array of colours too.  Traditionally, a shimmery grey or silver is used as the all over base colour, with a black eyeshadow on the outer corners.  However, you can create a smokey eye look with purples, blues, greens, browns etc. 

Today, I chose to go with a traditional grey as I had used a purple in my previous blog on smokey eyes. 

FOR A LOOK AT A PURPLE SMOKEY EYE, CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW:
http://jazzo-princessjasminem.blogspot.com/2011/12/smokey-eyes-for-night-out.html

What I used:

OUTER CORNER: MAC eyeshadow in Black Ted
ALL OVER BASE: MAC eyeshadow in Electra
LIGHTEST: Krayolan eyeshadow in white

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HOW TO APPLY THESE COLOURS, PLEASE SEE PREVIOUS BLOG:
Basic Eyeshadow Application
http://jazzo-princessjasminem.blogspot.com/2011/12/basic-eyeshadow-application.html

Here are a few more colour combinations for smokey eyes!!

MAC Black Ted            MAC Blue Edge            Krayolan white

MAC Black Ted          MAC Pompous Blue          Krayolan white

MAC Black Ted          MAC Beauty Marked          Krayolan white

MAC Black Ted              MAC Mulch              Krayolan white

FOR A CLOSER LOOK AT THE EYESHADOW COLOURS GO TO:
http://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/product/shaded/154/363/Eyes/Shadow/Eye-Shadow/index.tmpl

Important tip:  In order to make the smokey eye even darker, apply a black cream shadow first.  I like to use MAC Paintpot in Blackboard.

Matching Eyeshadow Colours: Day 2

Today I am playing with earthy colours.  These are colours like brown, beige and rust.  You can accomplish a polished nude look with these colours, or a more intense look for the evening.  I find that brown and beige looks good on any skin tone, from fair to tanned.  However, the rust colours will definitely look better on a tanned skin.  But play around if you like it.  You never know what you will come up with!!!

Today, I chose to combine a rust with a much darker colour in the outer corners of my eyes.  It's more intense and looks good for an evening out but natural enough to be worn in the day. 

Here's a closer look at the eyes!

What I used:

Outer corner             All over base colour             Lighter colour

OUTER CORNER: MAC eyeshadow in Blue Edge
ALL OVER BASE: MAC eyeshadow in Mythology
LIGHTEST: MAC eyeshadow in Nylon

FOR INFORMATION ON HOW TO APPLY THESE COLOURS PLEASE SEE PREVIOUS BLOG:
Basic Eyeshadow Application  
http://jazzo-princessjasminem.blogspot.com/2011/12/basic-eyeshadow-application.html 

Here are a few more colour combinations with earthy colours!!!

MAC Mythology            MAC Gleam            MAC Nylon

MAC Mulch             MAC Mythology             MAC Nylon

MAC Mulch          MAC All That Glitters          MAC Nylon

MAC Black Ted                  MAC Mulch                  MAC Nylon

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND A CLOSER LOOK AT EACH EYESHADOW COLOUR, GO TO:
http://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/product/shaded/154/363/Eyes/Shadow/Eye-Shadow/index.tmpl

Important tips: 

1) The general rule (although I hate the term 'rule' for makeup) is that lighter colours should be worn in the daytime and darker colours in the evening.  If you do want a more intense look for an evening out, play around with darker colours on the outer corners of your eyes.

2) In order to fade the colours into each other nicely remember to BLEND, BLEND, BLEND!