Botox Anyone??

I went to my first Botox party last wednesday with Lianne. Now, I am not old enough to reap the benefits from Botox, but it was entertaining to watch. The women were so happy to go back to see the doctor and get all of their wrinkles (well not all, but a good bit of them) erased. I have never seen anyone so anxious to get poked and prodded. I can say that the Doctor (Dr. Ruff) and the nurse were quite knowledgeable about procedure, and I must say that I was very tempted to be next. It was a pleasant experience and it feels good that there is a procedure out there that allows women to feel good about maturing. Not everyone is blessed with a superior gene pool and access to expensive skin care...and no one is immune to wrinkles and crow's feet.

My Homegirl Trish

After a couple of months with my beloved Bobbi Brown mini brush set, I decided to give her a rest. I needed a set that had more brushes and a larger carrying case. So, after poking around in Blue Mercury, I immediately fell in love with the Trish McEvoy Essential Brush Collection. I had to have it, and the smile on my face as I walked out of the store with new brush set in hand was really worth 1000 words. If you would have passed me on the street, you would have wondered "what's she so happy about?"

The brush comes with Deluxe Blending Brush, Deluxe Tapered Blending brush, Deluxe eye contour, Deluxe Eye Definition Duo, Deluxe Eye Definition Duo, Deluxe Even Skin Correct & Blend Duo and Deluxe Lip. The faux leather, quilted case is so cute and chic. It fits snugly in my bag and looks great next to my Bobbi Mauve Palette. The brushes are nice and soft and offer excellent precision. I heart Trish!!!

From the Runways to the Streets

I know I maybe early on this one (not in the fashion world..but in real life), but I had a photo shoot in NY on Sunday for a magazine submission for the Big September fall issue (late I know). The looks were all inspired by German Expressionism painters, like Munch, Schiele, and Dix. I decided to go with a completely black, glossy lip (done with black eyeliner and clear gloss). Now you maybe wondering, who on earth would wear black lipstick (I've seen it done....don't act like you didn't wear black lipliner in the 90s)?? Well fortunately for you, Giorgio Armani has made it easy with his new Caffe Collection. The collection consist of 5 luxuriously, rich, and creamy lipsticks. Shade 62 is a great wearable interpretation of the black lip trend. Be sure to pair it with the accompanying liner to get a perfectly defined lip that is necessary when wearing such rich shades. It is a beautiful, rich brown that just screams fall and winter. The packaging is extremely chic and sophisticated. I am definitely gifting this to myself!!! I can't wait!!! Fall is among us!!


photo courtesy of www.style.com

To Powder or Not to Powder??

I only powder my face once a day. That's it!! After I apply my concealer, I apply powder on top to set it. That's it!! I don't apply it all over my face nor do I apply it on my nose. I don't like the matte look. Semi-matte. Sometimes. Matte....Never. When will women realize that matte skin does not look healthy nor does it look real.

I think many women hate having oily skin, so they powder themselves constantly throughout the day. They don't realize that powder DOES NOT control oil. I repeat..POWDER DOES NOT CONTROL OIL PRODUCTION!! There is no product out on the market that truly prevents sebum production. Now, there are products that TEMPORARILY do so like oil-control lotions, but it is TEMPORARY...like 2 hours temporary. Please ladies, let go of the constant reapplication of blot powder, loose powder, and studio fix and invest in oil absorbing sheets. please.....

Most celebrities that we see on TV and in magazines have been retouched and are being maintained by their makeup artist. Oil production is a natural function of your skin.

One more thing....if you have skin that isn't flawless (who does...but you know what I mean), don't look for a powder to do the job. That's like asking someone who is a size 12 to fit into a 2. It ain't gonna happen. There are claims of products giving full coverage, but do you really want full coverage from a powder?? Really?? Just imagine what that would look like....

I don't even like to use powder highlighters, unless it is just 200 degrees outside and the person's skin is like an oil slick.

This isn't to give powder a bad rep, but to those who really just sit and apply it all over ....stop it!!

To powder or not to powder....? NOT!!!

Weekend at the Beach

I just got back from a wedding this weekend at Virginia Beach. It was a lovely event. Is it me or do people not dress up for weddings anymore? They used to be such glamorous event, even for those in attendance. The wedding day is not only for the bride. It's a day that you can look your best too!! I just wanted to let you gals know what I wore ( I got sooo many compliments on my look):


Hair:

Side- parted chignon (photo courtesy of www.nexxus.com)
FYI: I have natural hair so to help with the frizzy edges, I apply Aveda Humectant, and tied hair up for about 10mins in satin scarf to smooth.


Make up:

Concealer only!! Too hot for alot of foundation

Queen collection Mineral Bronzer (review on that later this week)

Bobbi Brown Pink Raspberry Blush (from palette)

MAC Tinted Lipbalm spf 15 in Fuschia Fix

Dior Show Mascara

Chocolate Shimmer Eye Shadow (Bobbi Brown)

Espresso Gel Liner (Bobbi Brown)



Clothing:

Kelly Green Shift Dress(Banana Republic)
BCBG Girls Platform Slingbacks (sorry couldn't find a pic).



I got up and went to the beach this morning. Now, I am already a chocolatey girl, but I laid out in the sun(i even got a tan....I look so Chic and Coco Chanel...lol), made sandcastles, and played in the water with my younger cousins. It was such a nice get away!! I haven't been to the beach in years....was great to be a kid again!!

Keeping Cool and Pretty in 100 degree weather

As we know, HEAT + HUMIDITY = MELTING FACE

But to stay cool during these unbearably hot times, I decided to pick up some items from Douglas yesterday while out on a mini shopping trip. Here are my recommendations for keeping cool, but cute during such humid times,


1.Instead of trying to rock a face that you have taken 30 minutes to beat on the floor (for it to only melt onto the floor once you step outside), try playing up your nails. I love Essie Neon Collection. 4 mini cute neon nail colors (magenta, lemon yellow, orange, and hot pink). These can hold up under all kinds of conditions, including sweaty feet. Got these yesterday, and I am rocking Short Shorts(the bright pink) with matching lips.




2.Evian Facial Spray Traveling Companions. I picked these little cuties up yesterday to cool me down. You get 3-1.70z (about 50ml) bottles. They fit perfectly in the purse or the makeup bag. Nice to cool you down without ruining your makeup. This will give you a fresh-faced look, while improving your skin's hydration level. Even the BF loves these. We were spraying each other for the remainder of the day. Keep them in the fridge to get a cool burst of h20.

3.Burt's Bees Deep Cleansing Cream. I love this stuff. This is perfect for the oily gal and the gal with dry skin. really!! It contains chamomile, which helps to soothe the skin. Not to mention that it contains menthol, which gives a nice cooling sensation. I like to cleanse my face with this following my workout. Oh yea, did I mention that this product is 97.00% natural??

Bobbi News

For all of you Bobbi Brown lovers located here in DC, you will now have another place to purchase her products: Blue Mercury of Georgetown.

Starting in August, The whole Bobbi Brown line will be available there!!! YAY!!! I love Blue Mercury!! This store houses my favorite brands, and now they are just really out doing themselves...can't wait!!

Video Find

HI Ladies....

TGIF!!!! I am excited about the weekend!! Why? I am meeting with a fellow MUA, Tamara Delbridge (she's been in way longer than me...and has given great advice). I can't wait!!!

I was looking in the sephora video archives and I found this smokey eye tutorial. It has been a long time since I have spoken about the infamous and always in demand smokey eye....here is the video:


Sephora Smokey Eye Tutorial


While you are there, poke around in the archives....

Have a great weekend!!

Lipgloss Therapy

As we know, I have been hitting the gym something serious. I am really trying to make better food choices and have a regular workout routine. Tuesday afternoon, I decided to take a yoga class. I had already finished my cardio and strength training exercises for the day and still had a little energy, so I was like what the heck. This was an intense 2 hour yoga class with a Ukraine lady, whose english was, well....ya know (it actually made me laugh a couple of times at how she put her sentences together...so cute.). The class was difficult. The stretching, the bending, the poses.....OMG!! Well, the next day my back was sore!!! So before I went to my "Body attack" class the following evening (yesterday), I stopped into the CVS nearby to check out Revlon's new ColorStay Mineral Lipglaze (tried it...hate it). It is supposed to last up to 8 hours. I decided to test it against an hour of "body attack" class....I was disappointed that it failed miserably. Not to mention the smell was horrible and I hate sponge tip applicators. But all was not lost, because I also picked up Revlon's Beyond Natural Cream Lipgloss in Berry (a deeper neutral pink).....I lOVE IT. The color is beautiful, the consistency is creamy, and the smell is so yummy. It deposits just the right amount of shine and color. No icky sponge tip applicator...it comes in a tube. I woke up this morning excited to put it on. I love the way my lips feel.

Go out and try these!!! They come in 7 creamy shades, so there has to be a color for you.

Vintage MAC Giveaway

Here is the moment that you have all been waiting for....So the winner of this contest will receive:

1. Parrot Eyeshadow (Frost)- Turquoise with Gold Shimmer

2. Idol Eye Eyeshadow (lustre)- Grey with Silver Flecks of Shimmer

3. Melton Mauve (Veluxe)- Matte Fuschia

4. Family Silver Mineralize Eyeshadow- Duo of Grey and Peal Marble Shadow with Gold Veining (From Holiday 2007)

5. Sea Me Shade Stick- Turquoise with fine shimmer particles (can be used as a base for parrot or worn alone)

6. Spring Bean Lustreglass- Bright Green lipgloss with flecks of gold shimmer (it goes on clear)


This is $90.00 worth of product!!!
There will only be ONE lucky gal who wins this, so I expect some good answers.

Okay, so here is the deal.....I want to see your makeup. Send me a picture with you in your everyday makeup. I want a description of what you are wearing and a close up. If you don't wear much makeup that's fine, I just want to see how well you execute your looks.

The contest will end on Friday, August 1st at 5PM. ALL RESPONSES MUST BE EMAILED TO ME IN ORDER TO BE CONSIDERED. EMAIL RESPONSES TO: thwatkins2@mac.com

Bobbi News

Bobbi Brown reformulated her Shimmer lipsticks.....They have even been renamed to Metallic Lipcolor...

I have the Pretty Pink shade, which I like. It is a natural pink shade on me.

The formulation is creamier with more of a gold shimmer than the older frostier version. I am not sure if I like all of the shimmer. I love the consistency though. I think I like to get my shimmer from a gloss rather than from a lipstick.

The Metallic lipsticks should launch some time in October....

Make Up Forever Face and Body Foundation

This has been a favorite of mine for a really long time!!!! The consistency is soooo light and smooth. It is a water based foundation that us professionals use when we want skin to look like skin, but also when we need something that is water-resistant. It dawned on me to write about this when I went to the Sephora in Philly/King of Prussia to pick some up(restock)....**I was just taking a day trip to get outta DC for a minute**

All you do is shake the bottle to mix, and apply with a brush (I prefer to use a kabuki like brush to buff the product in). It feels like there is nothing there, but it evens the skin out beautifully!! For those who need a little more coverage, just do an extra layer or apply a dap of concealer on areas where you need it and....there you have it, beautiful flawless skin!!!

Given the name of the product, it is safe to assume that you can use this on uneven areas of the body. You can also use it to give a faux tan (using a shade or two darker than your normal foundation shade), just remember to let it set for about 2 minutes...then LIGHTLY powder.

It comes in 21 delectable shades, so yes, there is a shade for you.


Picture taken from : www.makeupforever.com

And The Winners Are..............

Okay, I know I said July 3rd, but July 4th is better right? I mean you get to find out if you won free products on your day off.

Okay so Congratulations to 1st place winner, Michele G and 2nd place winner, Bunmight.

Here is the 1st place entry:

Amel Larrieux inspires me because she uses simple, natural products for her beauty. I love the way she plays up her eyes with kohl and await the day I can just wear a little concealer on a daily basis as she does. Her style seems very free and organic. I am in awe of those that can accent their beauty with simple components yet still look polished.

She also emphasizes good health and wellness as a key to external beauty and I have been trying to stay focused on nutrition and upping my water intake.

I also love that she does what she wants to with her hair. I remember an article in which she stated that she doesn't let stylists manipulate it. It's refreshing to find an artist that stays away from conformity.


Here is the 2nd Place entry:

I'll have to say Tyra Banks

why? her eyes are always gorgeous!

http://fileserver.glam.com/202/-2858846f16ff2d51c5.jpg


I would like to thank everyone for participating. Log on next week for my Vintage MAC Giveaway!!!

Giving Myself Some Credit

My brand new discover card arrived in the mail today....yay!!!!! I am now on my way to further establishing good credit history. I think it's ironic that today, before hitting the gym, I take a trip to Barnes and Noble to pick up Kelly Rowland's Ab bible (supposedly she references this before she eats anything tempting and points to this as the source of her fabulous abs), the Abs Diet For Women. I pick up the new Allure, Muscle Fitness for Women, and Harper's Bazaar and make my way upstairs in the direction of the cafe. For some odd reason, I found myself standing in line ordering a double chocolate cupcake. I sat down and devoured the poor thing (almost bitting my finger off in the process). I ate the cupcake so fast that I didn't even remember eating it!!!! I immediately felt guilty (not to mention stagnant), but what cheered me up was reading Collier Strong's comments on perfecting skin for skincare ads (hey, you are going to have to go read the article...not what this post is about). So then, after calling the bf to let him know of my betrayal, he said, "hey somtimes you have to give yourself credit. You had a hard work out." Genius and ironic that the moment after we arrived home from the gym my discover card was in the mailbox waiting for me to unwrap it!!! It's so cute and pink, with my first initial on it!!



***I am in no way promoting the card.

You Made Me Do it

Ok, okay, okay....Since I have been getting so many good responses, I decided to have 2 winners. One winner will win the Lilac Shimmer wash eyeshadow and Desert Rose Blush. The other will win Gold Shimmer wash Eyeshadow and Sand Pink Blush. The first place winner will get the opportunity to chose which duo they would like, and the 2nd runner up receives what's left.

This is a great opportunity for you to try out the shade selection that the line offers. Bobbi will be coming out with new Metallic Eyeshadow colors in the fall with a new formulation, so don't be surprised at the texture of the new ones compared to the old ones.

So the Vintage Bobbi Giveaway will continue until July 1st. Winner will be announced on July 3rd. Remember all responses must be sent to my email (thwatkins2@mac.com) in order to be considered. If you leave it in the comments area it will NOT be considered.

Make the decision hard!! i want the decision to be so hard that I feel the need to have two first place winners!!! Feel free to send in photos, etc. I am a visual person.

The Best Part of My Day

I have been on a healthy diet tip for the past 3 weeks now, recording every single thing I eat, the caloric amount, along with intense workouts 5 days a week (give or take a day..lol). The Gold's Gym Women's Locker room has literally become like my second bathroom. Now, when I purchase any product, I have to purchase an extra set for the gym bag. I go in around 8am, workout for an hour (sometimes hour and a half) and head to the locker room. Now, don't get me wrong, I HATE working out. I love the new diet, because I don't feel so blah anymore.

So what's the favorite part of my day, you ask?? I love peeling my layers of workout clothing off (honey, there are LOTS layers to pull off...lots is needed to nip, tuck, and hold down) and heading to the shower. I carry my Olay Ribbons Body Wash, Burt's Bee's Honey and Shea Butter Body Butter, and Vaseline Cocoa Butter Smoothing Body Butter. The warm water relaxes my muscles, and after I apply my butters(while still wet). First the Burt's Bee's then the Vaseline Cocoa Butter on top (then I go back over the cocoa butter with the honey and shea butter....what can i say, I love the smell of this...light and sweet). I put my makeup on and get ready to start my day. I feel good, I look good, and then I do a final look in the mirror and I am quickly reminded why I put myself through an hour (sometimes hour and a half) of torture: I look good!!!!

My absolute favorite part is massaging the body butter into my skin. The smell and the texture is just so invigorating!!! It's almost like a mini visit to the spa every morning!!! I love the look on the guy at the front desk who says "hello" and "goodbye" to me when I leave. I come in looking comfy and leave looking chicly casual (and pretty!!). The look on his face just confirms what I already know, but the look is reassuring and is that last bit of unnecessary confidence that starts my day.

Self-Maintenance Night

Back when I was a lonely college student (well, still am but I am progressing), I used to look forward to Friday Nights to do my weekly beauty maintenance routine of deep conditioning my hair, giving myself a pedicure (go to a nail salon with the annoying lady talking to you the whole time you are trying to relax got on my last nerve), shaving my legs, and catching up on my magazine reading. My friends used to laugh at me, because instead of going out I had my "self-maintenance night," Maybe they laughed because I named the day.....

Well, it's Friday night and I decided to revive the beauty ritual. I am feeling awfully lazy, because of the workouts, but I can't bear to look at my feet in their current condition any longer(poor boyfriend...lol). So even though I have an 8AM appointment with Gold's tomorrow, I have to do something about these feet. Plus, I am too excited to see them after I apply the polish!!

Rules of Bobbi Giveaway

I have been noticing that a few of you have been posting your responses in the comments section. In order to officially participate in the contest, you must EMAIL me your response.

Please email your response to : thwatkins2@mac.com.

If I don't receive your response in my mailbox, it will not be considered.

Bobbi Brown Original Packaged Eye Shadow Give Away

HI.

It's late and I am going through all of my makeup (an abyss of never ending liners, lipsticks, grease paints, etc). So in order to create space for palettes that I just ordered, I am hosting a contest with 1 Bobbi Brown Originally packaged eyeshadow and 1 Blush Shade (I am throwing in a travel sized mascara as well). The shades are Lilac (a lavender with shimmer) and Desert Rose Blush (a muted pink). Both of these shades are great for any skintone. Don't worry they aren't used!!

So...Here is the question: What celebrity inspires you with their makeup and why ?

The contest will end on July 1st at 5:00PM Eastern Standard Time. All responses must be emailed to me at thwatkins2@mac.com
If I know you, you are not eligible to participate!!

Winner will be announced on July 3rd.

Gimme Some Suga'

Tired of spending money on fancy scrubs?? Well, I have a solution for you: sugar!!!
I happened to do this when I ran out of Bobbi Brown Buffing Grains a couple of months ago, and I have been adding this to my cleanser every since.

All you do is buy a pack of sugar. Just the regular sugar that you use to sweeten tea or coffee with-not the sugar in the raw. The size of the sugar particles are a little to large. Add the sugar to your cleanser or apply your cleanser and then take the sugar and apply on top (this is what I do). If you add the sugar directly to your cleanser, make sure that you add enough so that the cleanser doesn't become a uniform mixture. Exfoliate as usual. Rinse with warm water and bam!!! Your skin should feel smooth and hydrated!!!

Serums: The Summer Moisturizer

Lately with the weather being toasty, I have switched from moisturizer to serums. Serums have the hydrating properties of a moisturizer with a lighter feel. Plus, they don't give you as much of a "greasy" look as some moisturizers can while you wait for them to sink in. The right serum can be like light a vitamin taken with a tall glass of water for your skin. Here are my favorites:

1. Chanel Hydramax + Active Serum - It's Chanel!!! Creator of all things pretty!!! I ALWAYS put this on right before my foundation. After I apply it, my skin feels like it has been sprayed with a light refreshing mist of water. It feels supple, hydrated and ready for makeup application. There is a moisture boosting complex that apparently helps skin to retain moisture. For those of you with drier skin, try the cream. It's lovely!!!

2. Bees Naturally Ageless Intensive Repairing Serum- I have only been using this for a week, but we have already forged a strong bond. I wear this on my "no make up days" or right after I wash my face at the gym. This contains Evening Primrose Oil (an ingredient that is found in a couple of Bobbi Brown products), Borage, and Pomegranate. All these ingredients help to fight aging...or atleast to keep you a little bit more preserved. I have recently been using alot of this line. Most of the products are 99% natural. This serum kicks butt to be $25.

Yep, only two. From the products that I have tried (not that many serums as of yet), I really like these.

Mona's Favorite Products for Summer

Yep, It's still hot here in DC. Today was a beautiful day...actually all this week was lovely (hot...but bearable). With the weather being a HOTT, I decided to give you a run down of products that I am loving right now:


1.Burt's Bees Honey Lip Balm- The smell of this alone keeps me reapplying it!! The texture is light and lovely. It leaves just a soft glisten on the lips with alot of moisture. Plus it's 99% natural!! This is great right before I hit the gym.

2.Bobbi Brown Lip Balm- Ok, I know that you are thinking 2 lipbalms, but I sleep with this one on at night. I know it's excessive, but it's my lips. LOL. I love this for night. I like it so much even the boyfriend wanted to try it, so now we both sleep with it on at night (he wears his in the day too...lol).

3. Burt's Bees Naturally Ageless Intensive Repairing Serum- I read about this in a magazine earlier this week and decided to pick it up. It is formulated like a light oil. I prefer to do serums in the summer 'cause it's just so hot to do normal moisturizer. I put this on after I wash my face at the gym. The smell is awesome!! It is formulated with Pomegranate and Evening Primrose oils (there are actually alot of other oils in here as well), which helps to keep my skin youthful and glowing!! I went out for crabs with some friends on Friday and everyone was asking me what I was using on my skin. I even had a little breakout on the forehead, but I guess the glow was a distraction. Plus, its only 25 bucks, which is relatively cheap for a serum.

4. Brown Creamy Lipcolor in Rose Petal and Italian Rose- What can I say.....I love Bobbi!!! I love the texture of these lipsticks. They feel like a lipbalm going on, but they have sheer color payoff. This is a great formulation to try colors that you wouldn't normally wear like pinks and corals. Rose Petal like a natural pink on me. Italian Rose makes me look a little more refined. They both offer a sheer wash of color with excellent texture. I actually love all the colors, but I find myself wearing these two most often.

5. Vaseline Cocoa Butter Smoothing Body Butter- I get excited to take a shower, because I know I will be applying this shortly afterward!!! I love it. When I buy it, I have to purchase like 3 at a time!!. That's how fast I run through these things...plus, I keep one at the house, one for the gym bag, and one for the boyfriend's gym bag (he love it too....he's slowly turning into a metro). I love the glisten and the slip that it leaves on my skin.

6. OPI MOD Nail Lacquers in Greenwich Village(green), "It"(neon yellow), and That's Hot Pink- I love bright nail polish!! I only wear bright colors on my toes, but it looks so cute and summery when I wear open toed shoes. There's nothing better than sporting a cute pair of pumps with neon colored nail polish.

I Can't Say It Enough

It is hot and humid here in DC. Yes, the heat wave is coming to a close but it is still too hot for a full face of foundation.

If I see another woman on the street with a butt load of foundation on, I will have to give her a ticket!!!

I know we all don't have perfect, model-like skin but a full face of foundation?!?!? Is it that bad?? I have seen women on the street with foundation literally blended down onto their necks. Why??

It is important to remember that while all these cosmetic lines have such great visuals out for the summer, these ads are done in a studio. Everything from the temperature is controlled. I know we all wanna look cute with layers upon layers of eyeshadow and falsies, but please save yourself the trouble of looking....well, silly with sweat pouring down your face. Save those things for the afternoon when the sun has given us a break. Seeing a women with a full face of foundation and sweaty is the equivalent of a girl walking down the street in some bad ass pumps with a bad ass walk (the my feet hurt walk).


The only thing I have been wearing in this weather is concealer and that is kept to a minimum. I would also encourage everyone to try Origins gel cheek stain(i love the coralberry and raspberry shade) and Tarte cheek Stain (Try Bronze Goddess and Blushing Bride). I love these. They smell delicious and are perfect for summer weather for those whose skin can be a bit oily. Of course, I am doing the mascara (water proof, bronze liner (daytime), and moisturizing lipstick (gloss is cool for night...but walking around with a sweaty face and gloss lips is like...ummm....no).
We have probably been hearing the tinted moisturizer spill all month, but that helps too. I haven't even been doing tinted moisturizer.

I had to vent.

What's on Mona's Face

Okay....well right now nothing (I sit here typing in the nude preparing to get ready for the day), but I have been wearing:


1. Bobbi Brown Protective Face Lotion SPF 15 and Dermalogica Intensive Eye Repair ( I do a couple of coats of moisturizer....its hot but the skin needs moisture)

2. Since I have a little hyperpigmented area in the inner corner of my eyes, I have to correct before I apply concealer. Now, I am all about the high end product, but lately I have been trying drug store in an effort to shine light on these products that cater to the African American consumer. So I correct/neutralize that area with Black Radiance Concealer Stick in 8003. Then I apply Black Opal Flawless Perfecting Concealer in Bronze 05 on top and gently tap in with the pads of my finger. (products found in CVS or Target).

3. I set it with Bobbi Brown Loose Powder in Pale Yellow.

4. I apply Bobbi Brown Blush in Rose to the apply of my cheeks and blend slightly upward and outward.

5. I fill my brows in with a combo of Bobbi Brown eyeshadow in Cocoa (all throughout the brow) and Chocolate/Espresso (in the tail area). I like my brows to be a bit lighter than the hair on my head for a highlighted effect.

6. I am all about the nude/pinky/tangerine-y lip so I use Laura Mercier Lipstick in Patchouli (nice pinky-beige) followed by either Bobbi Brown lipgloss in Tangerine (nice orange/coral) or Bobbi Brown Lipgloss in Pink Rapsberry (pink with a lilacy glittery undertone).

7. For me in the summer it is all about effortless looking beauty so I opt to do a nice chocolate shimmer on the eye with an Espresso gel liner. All by Bobbi of course.

8. I have been wearing Clinique Lash Doubling Mascara

9. I finish off my Body with NARS BODY Glow all over and then I spray a little Escada Sunset Heat (i love fruity scents...this came out last year...Escada always comes out with a new scent for summer).

**Notice, I don't wear foundation in the summer. Nothing feels worse or looks worse than a sweaty face full of foundation. I just correct what needs to be corrected and leave it at that. When you add foundation to places that don't need it, you run the risk of looking artificial. Summer is all about looking like you woke up gorgeous, not like you had to paint it on.

Meeting Bobbi Brown

This was the total highlight of my life!! I got to sit in on all the new products that will be coming out for Fall 08 and Spring 09. Let me just say that the line is going in a new direction. I LOVE IT!!! Of course, I have been sworn to secrecy about the specifics, but she is moving in a more colorful direction.

Okay, so Bobbi is like 5'0" and beautiful!! She has this simple elegance about her that puts you at ease. I was expecting her to be surrounded by papparazzi with aviators on....but nope, just her. She was very open to new ideas and suggestions on how to improve the line. Artist were even bringing her products from other lines just to show her how they would like a particular product to be formulated or packaged. I thought that really showed how humble and open she is. I took a picture with her, but I haven't gotten it back yet, so I will post later (don't hold me to it!).

By the way, she was so smitten with me, she asked me to be a model on QVC!!! Toot!! Toot!!!!!!!

I hope you missed me.....

I'm Back.........

After reading the blog of a friend, I decided that I have been doing you gals a disservice by my absence (toot, toot!!!!).

So, I am back to posting.

School has me in prison, so I am free now and will continue to bring you beauty tips, tricks and my favorite products.

My Favorite two beauty combos

Two weeks ago, I went to my favorite place in the whole entire world: Sephora. I picked up NARS BODY GLOW (the one with the bronze shimmer particles). I love it!! It gives my skin this satiny smooth feel and the smell is perfect for the spring weather. This is great for all those girls who are a little pale or just want a little extra bronze shimmer on the skin for the summer. Spring and Summer is not the time to walk around with pale legs. To get the most out of the smell, I sprayed Michael Kors on top. Genius!!

L'oreal HIP Color Rich Cream Crayon

I just had to try the new L'oreal Cream Crayons. The ads for the products look so inviting, and the colors can give the intensity of a Department Store Brand minus the pain to your "pocketbook." Plus, I have used the foundation and pigments and loved it!!! So, I picked up three one in Attentive (Gold..perfect for Spring/Summer beauty and on trend), Authentic (Rich Hunter Green...good for a day when you want a pop of color), and Intricate (Rich Navy...nice option for a smokey eye). Needless to say that I LOVED them!! The colors were so rich and creamy and they had just the right amount of shimmer!!These can be used as liner or directly on the lid as an eyeshadow. I did a quick little test as soon as I left the store on the back of my hand just to see how long they would last. After a couple of hours, they were still there and hadn't smudged!! I can't wait to try the the new glosses!!!

Facial at The Aveda Institute

My "momma" is in town all this weekend!!!! She is a low maintenance type of gal when it comes to beauty products. The only thing she needs is a moisturizing cream, cleanser, and a little foundation on days when she feels she needs it. So ....I wanted us to have a mother-daughter beauty night. WIth me being on a budget, I decided to schedule an appointment at The Aveda Institute in DC, because of the reduced rates (the services are performed by qualified students). It was the best experience I have ever had!! She started by gently cleansing my skin, then an assessment to see which service would benefit me most. My area was the whiteheads around my nose. Next, she exfoliated my skin with a little rotating brush (wonderful). Placed a hot towel to open my pores to make the extraction easier and to cleanse. After the cleansing she placed a hydrating gel mask all over....It was lovely!!! In addition to the wonderful facial, Sheila also incorporated massage. She left no pore unclogged and no muscle untouched!!! She was sooo gentle and her voice was sooo comforting. For the entire hour, I was in paradise. When my mother and I were reunited at the end of the experience, her skin looked equally amazing!! I asked her aesthetician what my mother's skin type was and she said, "normal....she has really beautiful, smooth skin (which I already knew)." I smiled and said, "thanks momma....I guess I get it from you." This was confirmed by Lakeisha's nod (my mom's aeshetician). I quickly booked another appointment with Sheila for next month !!! My skin was glowing and I felt relaxed. This experience was priceless!!!

Well, I'm off to another shopping field trip with mom in Philly. We have lots of ground to cover. She is leaving tomorrow afternoon.

Book an appointment there!! They now offer the skincare services at night now!! What are you waiting for??

My Grandma's Rouge

This week has been an eventful one. I have been busy, and being busy means no time for a full face of makeup. I have literally had only 5 minutes to do my makeup before leaving the house. With such little time, Bobbi Brown Velvet Plum Pot Rouge has been my saviour. It goes on the lips and cheeks, adding a natural hint of color and glow to the cheeks and lips. The pot rouge comes in like 10 different colors all wearable for EVERY skin tone. It comes in a cute little pot, so you can use your fingers for a quick application. The texture reminds me of my grandmother using her lipstick back in the day for blush. Cute idea!!!

White Out

Holla Chicas!!!!

Today was a down day, but was quickly brightened by a chance encounter with a fellow beauty junkie, like myself, eager to learn about great beauty finds and tips (Vonetta, I hope you're reading). She actually gave me a great idea to wear on Saturday (that's the day that I do my creative looks). It is on trend which is a plus, and I know it will look GAW-GUS (Lianne) on me!! Ok so here is the look:

1. Bobbi Brown Cream Shadow in Glacier (shimmery white with champagne shimmer)
2. Urban Decay Matte Eyeshadow in Yeyo (matte powdery white)
3. Christian Dior BLack Out Mascara


No Liner. The White shadow is enough!!

To balance out the rest of the face just a nude lip (Bobbi Brown Tinted Balm in Brown...gives me a polished, natural lip without the shine), and Bobbi Brown Bronzer in Deep (matte deep reddish brown).

Don't be afraid to try this look!!! It sounds scary, but beauty is about constantly bringing something new and fresh to the table!!! I hope to see lots of gals walking about with White shadow on this weekend!!

SHocking Pink Lips

Sorry for the brief hiatus, but I didn't have any inspiration coming from the world of beauty lately....well not until this past Thursday. I just happened to come upon the best fuschia colored lipstick-gloss duo. Before I tell you the brand, I just want to say how I love Chanel Cosmetics. Not only is this brand responsible for most of the beautiful faces that grace the red carpet at the Oscars, but Chanel always produces some of the best beauty trends on the runway. As much as I love the brand, I wish they would formulate foundation and concealer shades for women with deeper complexions (not everyone has indian in their family...lol...I couldn't resist). We want to be able to enjoy the velvety smoothness of your foundations as well.


Okay so it isn't surprising when I announce that the shade is a product of Chanel. Ladies, I really cannot help myself. I try to stay away from the chanel counter and from their website, but "every time I try to leave something keeps holding me back, me back....telling me I need you in my life" (LOL).
So with the weather starting to break, I felt it was time to go ahead and find my perfect pink/fuschia pout for spring.Now I love drugstore brands like MAC just like the rest of you, but sometimes quality and color just plays a bigger part in my brand selection. I wanted something that didn't have any shimmer (fuschia +shimmer= too much), vibrant like myself, had a moisturizing feel, and had cute packaging. I don't worry about "something that will complement my skin tone" ( i hate when women ask me that), because I can mix in a liner color or lipgloss to alter the color and make it work. First I applied Rouge Hydrabase in Coco Pink(a shocking pink), then applied Glaze Glossimer(a sheer pink) on top. Gorgeous!!!! The color felt sooo light on my lips and lasted for so long that I even forgot that I had anything on.

Mona's Favorite Glosses

I thought I'd just let you gals (and guys..)in my top 6 (random number right?) Favorite Lipgloss for Spring 2008.

6. Estee Lauder Pure Gloss in Candy. These glosses are really pigmented. This hot pink is perfect for spring and summer. It isn't overly glossly. They also smell lovely.

5. Prescriptives TintBalm in Smoothie. This is a nice sheer baby pink gloss. I love the packaging and adore the color. If you want to try out pink this is great.

4. L'Oreal HIP Gloss in Romantic. Red is always the trend. Good red to pair with other colors. This isn't a brilliant intense red, but good for those who don't want a full on red. This is a red that can be worn to work or class.

3. Clarins Color Quench Lipbalm in Orange Slice and Poppy. I just recently discovered these shades and I LOVE them!!! I like to mix them to get that perfect glossy coral pout for Spring. The Poppy is a nice red and orange slice is a beautiful orange.It gives a nice cushion for the lips as well.

2. Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss in Nectarine. This is a soft peachy shade. I love to wear this when I want shine and a nice neutral shade. Perfect for those days when you really want to look natural.


1. Shiseido Lipgloss in Mango Passion and Red Coral.
My absolute favorite!! This is the perfect shade for women of all complexions. The moment I tried these two on I knew I would be rockin' this look all summer. These colors add that extra bit of summer into any look. These can even be worn at work, class, wherever.


***Please don't overdo the glossy lip. Make sure to exfoliate lips first. Glossy looks better on smooth lips!!!

Friday Night Beauty

It's a Friday night, and I am home watching Kimore Lee Simons:Life in the Fab Lane show (did I ever tell you how much she annoys me??), browsing the internet for beauty finds, and trying to find something to get into. So...of course with me being the beauty crack head ( I mean that in the best possible way) that I am, I go onto Sephora's site and what do I find??? More videos!!! Yay!!! Enjoy:

Videos for Spring '08 Beauty Trends

I love these videos!! You actually get to see the makeup artist Sylvia at work. The clips are really short but there are 21 of them.

Heeeere's .......Bobbi !!!

Hey Gals!!!

I was just browsing the Bobbi website looking for anything that I haven't already discovered and I found this:

Three Bobbi how-to videos on how to apply concealer, foundation, and the perfect lipstick shade.

Perfect Lipstick Shade

How-To Apply Concealer

Finding Perfect Shade of Foundation

I love Laura Mercier

Browsing online always gets me into trouble. I always see something that I just have to have or try out. My latest obsession is the new limited edition Laura Mercier Nail Lacquers in a rich eggplant and blackened cherry shades. Devine. I haven't worn colored nail polish since the 90's, but these shades make me want to go get a quick little manicure. Will Spring hurry up...

Matte is Back!

I love myself some dewy skin!!! The way it can rewind the years on even the most dull and tired complexion is just amazing! I cannot understand for the life of me why the "beauty gods" have decided to go with semi-matte skin for Spring '08. I know in the dead heat of summer the last thing we want is to have a combination of dewiness and sweat, but dewy skin looks healthy!!! Anywho, with that being said I am pleased to announce two new products. Chanel has just launched its new Mat Lumiere Foundation. Ladies, I LOVE it!! It gives excellent coverage and glides on effortlessly. It comes in 11 lovely shades.Quite different from the traditional cream to powder formulations, which can leave your skin looking a hot cakey mess. This is Perfect for the oily girls (just in time for summer and spring break for some of you), especially during the face melting days of the DC humidity and 90 Degree temperature. With this foundation you can tell the summer to "bring on the heat!"

Also, this is still in the works, but I got to get a peep at a new Bobbi Brown Liquid Matte foundation that is still in the testing phase. I actually got the color matched on me. It was perfect!!! It had a beautiful golden undertone, which is lacking in some of the deeper shade selections. I love Bobbi's products but for some reason (seems to be the case with alot of lines...) the deeper shades tend to have more cinnamon undertones than the promised golden. I'm looking for the product to be out next year.

Gifts for the Makeup Girl in Your Life

Have a friend with a birthday coming up, but not sure what to get them? Don't even think about gettting a thoughtless gift card..... Well, if your girl or girlfriend is a makeup girl or product junkie (like myself) why not make them a goodie bag. Here's my idea of the perfect gift (hint, hint...lol).


1. A makeup bag.
I love a cute little bag that I can use to store my products in. Something that will fit in my purse with different little compartments that separates the glosses from the eyeshadow and a few spaces for my brushes. Don't give it to us empty!! Splurge on the bag and get little drugstore eyeshadows and lipgloss. Sephora has metallic faux leather bags that can double as a clutch (and they come in a wide range of colors).

2. A Mini Brush Set
The idea of having a set of brushes for travel, one to keep in the purse, or in the drawer at work is genius!! Being able to take out your little brushes to touch up is so convenient. I love the new little Pink Rapsberry Brush Set that Bobbi has come out with. It comes with a blush (or powder) brush, eyeliner (my favorite), eyeshadow, and lip brush. The size of the set can literally fit in your pocket and the hot pink lining is perfect for the girlie girl.

3. Palette Systems
A great way to get everything to fit inside that cute little bag you just purchased, is to get palettes. The come with up to 6 shadows or lipsticks in most cases. Some even come with a full face inside-blush, lipstick, eyeshadow (which can double as liner). Chanel has the cutest little eyeshadow palette for spring (all the shadows are shaped like Camelias). Any girl would adore this!!!

4. Trial Size Goodies
Take a stroll down the trial size aisle in any drugstore and you have found a goldmine (even in some bed, bath, and beyond)!!! There are trial sizes of everything from skincare items to toothpaste!!! You can even visit your local beauty counter for samples of products. Great makeup bag stuffer!!!

Feeling the Winter Blahs

I am sooo friggin' tired as of late. I have been going to bed every night at around 9pm. I do believe in the "early to bed, early to rise" saying, but it isn't helping. Sure I get up at 6am, but by 2pm I am ready to crash. I need a pick me up, like a visit to a salon to get a conditioning treatment and scalp massage, while getting a pedi/mani (I can't tell you how long those dogs have been neglected..lol). Time to have a self-maintenance night, that usually boost my energy. Yesterday, I met up with friends to go see the new Carol's Daughter freestanding store in Wheaton Mall and was yelled at by my friend, because of the neglect for my hair. So I think it is time for a long "self-maintenance night". This is where I give myself a pedicure while sitting under my borrowed hairdryer conditioning my parched tresses. I have been wearing my hair back in a bun this whole week (maybe 2 weeks). I saw a avocado and banana recipe for a hair conditioner online, so I think I may try this.

All Hail The Queen!!!

Queen Latifah's new collection of makeup with covergirl is absolutely and surprisingly fabulous!! Yesterday, after a visit to Wheaton Mall to see the new Carol's Daughter store, I made my way to Target. I had been curious about the line so decided to try the Queen Collection Liquid Makeup in Sheer Espresso. Not only was the match perfect (no ugly red undertones like some brands), but it felt like water on my skin. It didn't dry down to an overly matte finish like some foundations intended for women of color. It actually gives a semi-matte finish, but without the matte feel. It really does give continuous hydration. If you need a little extra coverage, just apply one layer (wait for it to dry) and then another. It offers a decent range of coverage (a little goes a long way). This is perfect for the summer and winter months. During the winter, just be sure to moisturize your skin before application. During the summer this really could replace your tinted moisturizer. I would suggest just applying a light gel moisturizer and then apply this. At a price of $6.49, it is worth a try. It comes in 12 shades, so there is a match for everyone!! It is available at just about any drugstore (CVS, Walgreens, Target). For those of you in DC, I love the new CVS right by the U-Street Metro.

Also, another great foundation find is the Chanel Vitalumiere Satin Smoothing Fluid Spf 15. This product feels like butta' on the skin. The way it glides and smoothes the skin's surface is astonishing!! Perfect for those looking for coverage, hydration, and something to smooth out the little tell-tell signs of aging. It leaves the skin looking flawless and radiant ( I sound like I'm reading off the bottle...lol). I tried it this weekend in Chestnut (a deep caramel color), and I was hooked!! This "satin smoothing fluid" (to call it a foundation is an insult) is good for skin that is suffering from a case of the winter blahs. There is a slight drawback for those of us with deeper complexions (very minor if you know how to blend and mix), there isn't a shade past Beyonce. However, I still LOVE the "satin smoothing fluid." How did I ever live without you?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MONET

I just wanted to give a big 25th B-DAY shout out to a great friend.

HOLD your glasses up:

Here's to MONET!!!
The friend that you can call at 3am and cry when your hurt. The girl that has the biggest heart in the world!!!

I wish you much success and happiness in life, girl!!! You deserve it!!!

LOVE YOU!!!!

Not Another One!!!

I am a firm believer in there is no such thing as "Bad hair" or "Bad Skin" but ladies after this weekend I think I may have to take the latter back. I had a photoshoot for a magazine Monday, and when I saw this model's skin I really wondered if she had just managed to sneak in. I don't know how she could possibly be signed to an agency with skin like that. There was acne, acne, hyperpigmentation, and more acne. It was everywhere (really everywhere...I even saw it behind her ears)!!! I have gotten into the habit of airbrushing, and I don't like to pack foundation on. So of course, I just covered up the acne and evened out her skin. I'm no dermatologist, but my skin is even and free of breakouts. Here is some advice for those of you looking for a good skincare regimen:

1. Drink Water and eat healthier. We are what we eat.

2. Get good skincare products. It doesn't have to be Uber-expensive. Just something that will hydrate and cleanse (without stripping) your skin. I'm not a fan of the acne systems because they tend to be drying, but hey if it works. Just be sure to moisturize. I would also recommend trying just plain ole' Aloe fresh from the stem.

3. See a Dermatologist. If you have purchased every cleanser and acne system out there, go see a board certified dermatologist. They can prescribe medication that will help.

Spring Beauty Trends...The Rundown

For the spring, fresh, flawless, beautiful skin is in!! I am so excited about the new collections coming out!! Natural beauty is back in a big way!!! It's all about choosing colors that are naturally present in the skin to give it a natural enhancement. The summer normally brings on the heat and dewiness, but this year the skin will be more of a semi-matte (think less oil-glands in overdrive and more of clean, fresh and slightly powdered).

I've also seen alot of bright eyeshaow like lilac, blue-green, yellow, even orange. The key to mastering this look is to keep it soft and simple. This brings back the days of just being girl. Pick one color and stick to it...liner is optional. But please try to keep the liner on the upper lid!! Must have shadow is Rimmel London's Colour Rush Trio Eyeshadow in Fever (a brillant trio of lilac colored shadows). For those of you looking for more color try MaxFactor EyeTrio in African Violet (highly pigmented shades of baby blue, yellow, and violet).

Matte Pink lips- Say good-bye to the days of glossy hot pink lips (thank God!! some people were just abusing this). Matte lips are making a comeback. If you already own a hotpink lipstick that has a slight shine to it, just add a little translucent powder to matte the color.

Glossy Coral lips- Instead of doing a full on coral lip, glossy coral lips give you the intense coral color without being too serious. This is a color that looks good on everyone. If you can't find the perfect shade, layer a bright orange gloss over a sheer coat of your favorite redlipstick. Try Dior Addict 347 Orange Raphia

Rosy Cheeks- Bobbi Brown's New Pink Raspbery collection has a color that work for everyone. Pink brings a pop of youthfulness to the face that we can all use from time to time.

Liner- Liner has made a huge comeback for spring. It gives our eyes that definition
we need for night. Pair it with a matte pink lip.

Gold shadow- Gold is always in during this time of year. It helps to give skin that exotic sunkissed look. Dab it on in the inner corner of the eye

Full,Groomed Brows- A Fuller Brows can reverse the clock by a couple of years. This trend has been on the comeback for atleast a year. But notice, the key word her is groomed.


All Photos taken from www.style.com