Showing posts with label african american women. Show all posts
Showing posts with label african american women. Show all posts
So, my cameras are en route as I went away and left them.  I miss writing here, it seems to alleviate the need to speak to a physical person.  I decided to create my photo for this post. 
Whilst visiting my friend in California, we got into the natural v. fake topic.  She's been relaxed, her sister natural.  Fortunately for her, she's not obsessed with beauty, fashion, makeup all of my downfalls.  She posed a question and I never realized some people don't know the difference between "transitioning" and "stretching."
Transitioning, simply put, is the process one takes before their "big chop" which begins the journey to going natural.  The term natural should be used with caution as there are few who agree on what defines natural (i.e. colouring, products, protective styles) so let's stick with the topic at hand.
Most people transition to avoid the shock of shaving all their hair off.  By allowing the hair to grow awhile, it's easier to accept the tiny Afro, than the shaved head.  To be honest, any drastic change is an initial shock, and I think there is a period after of mourning, fear, anxiety and regret.  For others, they are so happy to have healthy hair, it feels liberating. 
Stretching is the process of extending a relaxer for a prolonged period of time with the intent to decrease overlapping between touch ups.  By "stretching" the time between relaxers it also allows the length of the hair to be a bit more pronounced.  If you wait five months between relaxer touch ups, versus 4-6 weeks, the difference is impressive.
The downfall to the two is that the line of demarcation will literally make or break the results. The line of demarcation is the point where the hair's natural texture and the chemically treated area meet.  Because of the difference in texture, the hair can easily snap and break.  During the process of transitioning or stretching, many opt to wear their hair in protective styles.  It's also important to ensure hair is not manipulated without plenty of patience, care and gentleness.  The hair is very, VERY vulnerable so make sure if you are washing and conditioning you allow plenty of time to complete your regimen.  I also recommend researching hair forums, books, and any information pertaining to your hair's texture.  What works for some, will not work for others.  Make sure the hair has PLENTY of slip.  That coating will alleviate tangling and prevent that dreaded "snap" breaking the hair.

xoxo



I have been in lust with the 12 color flash palette from MUFE's line of products.  I love all of their products; but, we are in a recession and I'm working on focusing on what I have.  It's a struggle everyday, but I am not a professional blogger so my goal is not to sell products since I buy everything I have and this is not my living.  I'm also trying to reduce the amount of products I have which are near hoarding amounts.  So, when I found this little number for $6.00 at Urban Outfitters, I was happy and curious.  I've read that the MUFE one doesn't dry and creases a lot so it's best to not expect it to remain in place for long periods.  So, the price was brilliant, I've just swatched the colors and they are not as emollient.  That can be good or bad, but for my use, that's a plus.  This is going to be a base, not primer for colors which I wish to make pop with my less than stellar eyeshadows which lack pigmentation.  There is a bright yellow, fuschia/berry, white, robin egg blue, gold, granny smith green, silver, blue, coral and black.  Great diversity for mixing and creating different colors.  In addition, it dries to a powder.  It's not as smooth as the MUFE but it's probably due to the lack of mineral oil.  I can't give it a complete review in terms of endurance since it's been an hour; however, you cannot go wrong by trying since it's a fraction of the cost of the other and wears a lot longer.  If I don't post I'll forget since I'm prone to being scattered in terms of product reviews.  Not that I don't care, but my swatches look like graffiti compared to some of the blogs
I enjoy!
xoxo
Cheap? Maybe.  Frugal? Abso*bl**dy*lutely!  have a habit of not just tossing out bottles of hair products.  If a conditioner doesn't suit my own hair, if it won't work for my dog (certain chemicals not compatible) then I will donate, swap, or use it on a weave, wig, whatever fake nest I choose to rock.  So this morning when I was slamming the bottle to get the last bits out, I decided to use my brain.  I took a pearing knife, and sliced the bottle in half and surprise!  No more banging, but enough product for two more uses.  Believe me when I say, I bang the bottles hard, in fact, I used to be so bad, I would add water and shake to ensure I got every penny out.  It's terrible that packaging for most cosmetics is so that we can't squeeze it out like toothpaste, but as you can see at the left, tons of product is still in tact even though I had shook what I could get out.  I can usually stick my finger and swirl it out, but this works better.  I suggest you use a knife you don't mind getting dull in time.  You can get one at the dollar stores or even a thrift store may have some nicer ones which won't go dull.  Good luck!

xoxo

Before You Toss It!

by on 9:55 PM
Cheap? Maybe.  Frugal? Abso*bl**dy*lutely!  have a habit of not just tossing out bottles of hair products.  If a conditioner doesn't sui...

Gah!  It was so freaking cold but how does one track their progress without a picture?  Ugh!  I guess my hair is ... waist length almost??? When it's dry it's to the lower part of the small of my back.  My hair is 4c, and it doesn't accept relaxers well.  I'd declare my hair as texlaxed because it's chemically altered but not straight.  For example, if I went to the hair dresser, she would not declare my hair relaxed because it isn't "bone" straight, but it's not natural.  *Note* This is not about the relaxed v. natural stuff that's going on in the black hair community.  Do and where your hair, but don't let it be who or what identifies you!  So, my goal for myself is to take care of my mind, body, and soul by eating better, getting some form of exercise, reducing stress, cutting back on sweets, adding more fun into my life and keeping a journal of my hair, weight, skin and overall well being.  Time to let of of toxic people, places and things.  If you would like to join me, I'm a great motivator and I've never had long hair in my life, my mother didn't know how to care for it, and neither did I.  If I'm honest, sometimes, I want to shave my head.  So, how did I grow it?  It wasn't easy, and protective styles will save you a lot of pain, frustration and get you through the tough times.
xoxo
Well...Revlon and most drug stores are really stepping up their game in order to remain competitive against high end cosmetics.  I must admit Revlon has been quite impressive.  I like that Colorstay kicked MAC's Studio Fix Fluid butt, but (no pun intended) now it's gone after Make Up Forever's HD.  Unfortunately it doesn't quite make the full cut.  The only reason is, Revlon doesn't offer the same level of color schemes for most women.  Revlon display's its available in nine shades - 002 Vanilla, 003 Shell, 004 Nude, 005 Natural Beige, 006 Medium Beige, 007 Cool Beige, 008 Golden Beige, 009 Rich Ginger, and 010 Cappucino.  I wish they had caramel, but since it really isn't schedule for launch until March 2010, I can't fault Revlon.  I purchased it at CVS for $13.99 and it was buy one get one free so that's about $7.00 and change.  I had to mix Rich Ginger and Cappucino to get caramel (top/middle).  It has a pump which I love, and goes on sheer but is buildable.  Some have reported a sheen, however, I didn't find that to be the case with me.  I haven't worn it enough to compare it to Color Stay and I love Color Stay a lot.  It didn't make my pores look huge, nor was it oily.  I have concern over the SPF in that this is sold as "Photo Ready" and the SPF is what gives the gray cast.  I'll take more pics tomorrow.  Here are the ingredients:
 ACTIVE INGREDIENTS: titanium dioxide 1.1%, zinc oxide 2.0%
INGREDIENTS: water, cyclopentasiloxane, dimethicone, cyclohexasiloxane, butylene glycol, boron nitride, cetyl peg/ppg-10/1 dimethicone, phenyl trimethicone, sodium chloride, nylon-12, hdi trimethylol hexyllactone crosspolymer, calcium aluminum borosilicate, alumina, trimethylsiloxysilicate, glycerin, bis-peg/ppg-14/14 dimethicone, isodecyl neopentanoate, dimethicone/bis-isobutyl ppg-20 crosspolymer, trisiloxane, methicone, triethoxycaprylylsilane, tribe henn, methyl methacrylate crosspolymer, cycloheptasiloxane, silica, sorbitan sesquioleate, tetrasodium edta, phenoxyethanol, caprylyl glycol, 1,2-hexanediola MAY CONTAIN Mica, Titanium Dioxide (CI77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, 77492, 77499), Zinc Oxide (CI 77947) 21897 (Date: December 2009)



xoxo


I did a lot of shopping for my friend overseas and whilst looking for something else, I came across this from L'oreal.  They were buy one get one free and I purchased a few since I like HIP as an alternative to high end brands.  They are from L'oreal's HIP line but are called Studio Secrets.  I also noticed they had the regular line at 75% off.  I don't know if this is part of a repackaging or restructuring of L'oreal; however, if you like their original line, I'd buy them now or you can wait for them to appear at the dollar stores as there have been sightings.
I applied the swatches without primer and used my finger and did one swipe per swatch for each color.  I can say the formulation is markedly different.  While the product is softer, it has an odd texture.  It feels like there is more oil or binding in these.  I can't explain, but Victoria's Secret has shadows with the same feeling.  The reason I don't like it is, you can't get a lot of product with a brush.  There isn't the powder/chalk feeling, but you get more product by using a sponge tip applicator and there is also buildup.  I don't know what this trend is, but I'm not fond of it.  If you notice the swatches are smooth, rather they are crumbly like creme glitters.  If you have been to Claire's they have shadows with this formulation and you will first thing it's silky but then realize it leaves a residue/buildup on your finger.  The pigmentation is horrible.  You have to use a base to ensure you get the color you see.  The lavender and silver one on the right?  I'd compare that purple to Parfait Amour by MAC.  It's quite pretty; however, with the prices at drugstores, I'd suggest you save the money and purchase something with better pigmentation.  I realise MAC is hit and miss, but there are loads of brands I'd recommend.  If I were to rate this on a scale of one to five and five is the best, I'd give this a one.  If you do purchase this, buy from a store which has a return policy.  If you have purchased this and have made it work, let us know what you did.  Although I don't believe in spending money to make a product work, I may send these as stocking stuffers for my neice.
xoxo


There is no one method for taming one's mane. What I have learned is that you have to really, I mean really know your hair. You have to know your hair like you know your skin.
Hair is made up of proteins (keratin) and it needs protein in conjunction with moisture in order to keep a balance of strength and elasticity. For me, I don't think my hair can ever have too much protein, but I know it doesn't get enough moisture. Unfortunately, I color the heck out of my hair. I don't do all the other rubbish, like heat, back combing etc, but when people ask me how I keep my hair looking so healthy or shiny, I have
to confess that if it were in it's natural color, it would look like a tumble weed. It's so bloomin dry! My niece, poor baby has the same problem. I tell her it's her father, my brother's, fault as her mother has thick, ridiculously long albeit straight hair. I love her mum's hair, but feel my niece's pain. Her hair is disgustingly thick, she has a lot of it, and it's so curly. She likes to wear it pulled back in a pony tail; however, it makes our hair draw up and turns into a "puff" if we don't plait it. It's quite curious since my boss has the same situation and what's more, we resemble each other when we both wear our hair down as we did today.
So, what I recommend is to experiment with your hair's texture and if you don't know what it is, ask! Alternate products and see how your hair responds. Conduct a test with your hair following the same regimen (wash, condition, style) but alternate products by ingredients. For instance, notice the difference in your hair when you use protein (usually reconstructors, or may indicate protein on the bottle), moisture, and so on. Be aware of your hair's growth to shed factor. Sometimes hair tends to grow faster in the summer due to warm climate, how you eat plays a vital role, as does your stress or any medications. Am I saying to change anything? No, I'm merely giving hints on what things may contribute to the dissatisfaction with your hair's current state.
Remember, whether you are natural, relaxed, texlaxed, extensions, color treated, etc. you must take care of your hair. There isn't an alternative other than going bald. You will have good days and bad days, but ultimately, your hair is a reflection of your genes and how you treat it.

xoxo



As I try to curb my enthusiasm for the plethora of discounts saturating the beauty industry right now, I'm doing what a lot of beauty junkies do.  I'm shopping my stash.  This means, rather than splurge on the 30% Urban Decay is having, I'm using the products from their line I have but have not used.  Not quite a project 10 pan, but in the direction of rehab per se. 
I put this cream on after my moisturiser and it was like magic.  I didn't know if that's how primers are supposed to work, since I'm so incredibly oily, I keep things quite minimal on my face.  There's nothing worse than oil on top of foundation.  It makes a beautiful canvas look like cake batter with even the best of foundations.  Never mind.  I haven't had to blot as much today, just once at half ten.  It's half noon and I'm good.  Here's information from their website here.  I don't know all the rules about blogging and I know something's going down so I'm not trying to have the FTC looking for my behind for plagiarism. It makes your skin really feel soft.  I kept touching my face and looking at it.  I plucked a few chin hairs, that's how intense I was looking!  The only thing that Urban Decay ever does to upset me is....wait for it...PACKAGING!  Maybe there was directions on the box which I always through out, but I could not figure out how this thing opened.  It's so simple it's painful to admit.  See the silver bullet?  Simply twist it to open and again to close.  I know I didn't pay full price for this, but it retails for $30.00 USD.  I always make purchases during friends and family times since I won't finish this until the next.  Overall this product gets five stars, and I will repurchase (Unless the original English Ideas returns) as well as recommend this to my friends.
xoxo


I never thought the color red would work for me.  I believe 90% of my clothes are black, and I'm challenging myself to incorporate color.  Color is something that gets you noticed, it says, "I'm here!  Look at me!"  Although the demure black is quite sophisticated, I'm tired of the remarks if I'm honest.  So, here is day one and rather than sport the black camisole with a blazer, I scored a $12.00 long sleeved blouse with french cuffs (my fave for my long arms) at Ross to go with a pencil skirt I got at F21 last season.  I did wear black opaque tights with my Mary Janes (also Ross) because it's cold in the morning when I'm catching the train to work. 

The jacket was a great deal at Buffalo Exchange, it's by BeBe and is a petite so the french cuffs make a good detailing for it. I think it was 1/2 price on $15.00 so for $8.00 it has been a great piece I can wear with jeans or pair with skirts for work!







The last bit are these cool fake nails I bought at Walgreens on sale!






Yay, I am still a work in progress in my skills with camera and photography, so if anyone reading this needs better swatches, please leave a comment.  I purchased some of those daylight blue tinged bulbs, and I'm going to get a book on picture taking...On with what matters.  I didn't label them so I will give the names from left to right:  Glimmer (Metallic), Pop (Radiant), Pixie (Radiant),Whimsy (Radiant), Spirited (Metallic), Moody, (Radiant), Star (Radiant), Soiree (Metallic), Love (Radiant), Glimpse (Metallic), and Celestine (Metallic).  To be quite honest, these were not what I expected.  I love eyeshadow bases.  I knew these weren't going to be crease proof, so I wouldn't be disappointed for any sort of creasing which may or may not occur.  That said, the tube reminded me more of a lipstick than an eyeshadow cream.  So, when I opened the tube (see below) I was a bit put off.  I like applying either from a pot or stick, but usually the sticks have a pencil shape so I can get to the tear duct area of my eye.  This bit I can sort, but ...I thought, "It would annoy and take more product to use a brush, but I cannot just swipe it from the tube...or can I?" In addition, there is a very creamy consistency to the finish, therefore, if you have really oily lids, I would not recommend this product unless you don't mind the extra work of layering both under and over this creme. 
They aren't very pigmented, so it takes a few swipes against my complexion (dark) so be advised of that.  Overall, I would not recommend this with the exception that Glimpse is a dupe for Sharksin Shadestick by MAC.  I have high and low end creme eyeshadows, and the Maybelline ones at the Dollar Store are better quality than these for those who are budgeting.  If you love Hard Candy and want to have these in your collection, go for it, but you may not reach for them often.  I do love the variety of colors and the creme vs. shimmer finishes, but in terms of practicality, I'd prefer better packaging.  I will say if you lay these with any of the shadows from the 88 palette, you will love the result, but again, don't expect to go a whole work day without creasing.  I hope this is helpful.  Love yourself and remember you are the most beautiful person you have seen today, and your attidude will surprise you and those around you!

xoxo












In the spirit of the upcoming holiday season and the passing of Halloween, I was thinking about how pretty some of the looks were in an effort to celebrate ghouls and gobblins.  So many vampires, so little time. A friend was enquiring about there not being any eyeshadows that would look smart on brown skin.  Well...not so fast!  I found three in a manner of seconds which can all be seen and are quite pigmented.  From left to right I swatched the red from the 88 shimmer palette, bright fuschia (MAC) pigment, brash and bold/bold and brash? (MAC) pigment, and basic red (MAC) pigment and each of them show up against my dark skin, so let not your heart be troubled brown girls, there is enough color in the world for all of us :)  I know, I know, MAC!! But, the 88 shimmer palette is EVERYWHERE ('scuse the shouting), and it's quite inexpensive.  Other brands I've seen with red include: Ben Nye, Bloody Mary, and Kryolan.  I believe all of the mineral makeup vendors: TKB Trading, Fyrinnae, MAD, et al, will also carry samples with the color red.  Enjoy your day!
xoxo


OMG!!!!
I am so excited about this post!  I LOVE this woman's energy, beauty, attitude, smile, eyes, etc.  I stumbled upon this lass in the blogosphere and immediately subscribed, she and Vex make me miss Blighty...but one of the lot has come back to the "Tube."
*disclaimer starts here*
Unsub, hate, leave mean comments, but I had all but sworn off YouTube.  Some of the most amazing people don't seem to get featured.  I don't know why it is, but the people I really like, who inspire me, and seem to not have let their online "celebrity" affect them (i.e. remain humble) seem to not get a lot of hits or well deserved recognition.  Dvora is amazingly kind, humble and her mega watt smile is gorgeous.  I am not judging anyone, but the drama on YouTube depressed me to the point of feeling more down and insecure when I used to enjoy it, maybe after all these years, I'm "over it."  I am so excited for this channel and all the positivity I know she will bring.  I  know there are loads of good people in the world, but some people (me) have resorted to living vicariously through others as a way of coping with some of life's tragedies.  I don't propose to put others on pedestals, but I cannot not acknowledge the people who make me smile.  I hope she decides to stay awhile, if not, she's still blogging :)
xoxo


*happy dancing to the train*
One  more day!!! I get a new computer and can blog it all out!  *Happy Dance* In some ways it's been cool not to access the world wide web.  For instance, I spend more time getting out and about and having a "real life."  Week one, I loathed going home.  No blogs to read, no forums to peruse, no YouTube, just silence.  By week two, I was reading all the books I had set aside, and by the third week, I was about taking pictures of people, places, and windowshopping.  The world is really cool when you look at it from the lense of a camera. I'm no photographer, but some of the simplest things become so amazing.  Like architecture, rustic buildings, squirrels, flowers and the elements have a different element to them.  You see them quite different.  In addition, going to cosmetics counters in person as opposed to blogs and forums is quite interesting.  There arae so many beautiful women of various ethnicities, ages, skin tones and I found so many different ideas and experimented with products I had never touched.  Well, big thumbs down for Giorgio Armani...boo, hiss, I'm so upset.  This is one of the leaders in the fashion industry so, quite naturally I would be interested in their cosmetics.  But, unforutunately they don't have foundation in my skin tone??? What the frack is that all about?  I mean, the last I looked it was 2009 and black women are some of the consumers which keep this billion dollar industry in the black (pun intended).  No matter what's going on in my world, I was told as a child to make sure if I only had one outfit, make sure it was clean and pressed and if I could not do my face right, to have one lipstick that would flatter me.  I think it's sad that both women quite pale, and those who are darker are hard pressed to find a foundation to match our skin tone.  We exist, our money spends the same, and guess what, we aren't diminishing in number, we are learning more about how to emphasize our God given beauty and we'd like to get in on the action.  I felt more sorry for the sales assistant who took me to Chanel and still couldn't match me.  I'm not very dark, but I applaud those companies who do realize they have a demographic who would love to purchase their products.  End rant!

xoxo



Whilst shopping my stash I came across a product I purchased at ULTA quite some time ago called Amazing Concealer by Amazing Cosmetics.  I am embarrassed to admit I cannot remember how much I paid for it, but it was new at the time and only came in the large size.  Currently, it runs about $42.00 USD for the large and $28.00 USD for the small size. 
I love this concealer and don't know why I stopped using it.  In fact, I didn't use it simply for a concealer, I used it as a foundation as well.  The texture is not thick, but it's not runny either.  Think of when you squeeze a bit of gel for your hair onto your palm...that's the consistency.  It's that perfect mixture.  It's opaque so make sure you match yourself properly otherwise you will look sick or "off."
A little does go a long way, and this works well for oily skinned ladies like me who also worry about fading, or creasing.  I haven't tried it with a primer; although I can't imagine it having a negative effect.  I wore this today and a co-worker asked if I had on no makeup.  I lied and said, "Yes, why?" and he said, "You look pretty and sweet today."  That's guy speak for my makeup looks better simple than when I wear my over the top eyeshadow combinations.  Oh well, can't please them all.  Yes, I looked him right in the eye and lied.  What?
xoxo
I cannot believe I let MAC dupe me not once, but twice! I fell in love...maybe lust, but I do still love the theory when I look at it.  I saw "Beauty Marked" and thought I heard angels sing.  It is like no other color I have and I have a lot of shadows.  If my shadows were all turned to cocaine, there would be enough to last every addict and their mom until the second coming.  I loved the sparkles, and the incomparable pinot noir shade of burgandy with silver reflects against the black backdrop.
Unfortunately, the color is black.  Not even a good black, a slate black.  No burgundy, not even a tinge of purple, or plum.  I thought I got a bad batch; so, I went and purchased another. Same thing again.  So, I bought bases in: black, purple, burgundy, pink, silver, white, et al in order to find the "right" combination to make it work.  Bullocks!  I am not paying that sort of quid for something I have to "tweak."
I have been looking for a color to match the infamous Beauty Marked for a long time and I finally found it.  I was at the Galleria one day, perusing the cosmetics and fragrances, when I saw the Bare Minerals Boutique and a lovely sales assistant/makeup artist named "Jessie."  He was so divine.  I saw him and could not resist playing with his pigments.  I was always a bit intimidated to go into the actual boutique, as all of the lids are away and it's wall to wall open jars of pigments.  I keep imagining someone sneezing or a big wind, and it makes me uncomfortable.  Much like when I was a wee girl and mum would say, "Don't touch!" anytime I looked at items in the store.  Flashbacks!
Roll tape, and I see a color that looks like my coveted Beauty Marked and I asked to have it immediately upon swatching it.  It was my Beauty Marked!  All this time, and money spent trying to fix her and she was waiting for me to find her.  Then it happened, he told me it was out of stock and gave me a hint of a sample.  I didn't even use it because I was afraid I would never have it.  Scarcity factor in full effect.  He gave me his card, took my name and number and promised to call me when it came in.  So, I immediately called every store which carries Bare Minerals in the state of California.  Well in my region and fifty miles surrounding.  Nothing!  Well, I found it at their sight and it was in stock and it was everything for me to not purchase two.  When something is that hard to find, there's usually a reason, and discontinued was all that I could think of.  But, I only got one, and I'm loving it. 
This is a swatch without base also.  I used the "sample" and took what was on the finger above and swatched her on my arm.  Love at first sight!  I can use this in so many ways, this is something I can't believe anyone hasn't been enamoured with.  Well, considering how hard to find it is, I understand, but I'm not in the "scene" of beauty writers, bloggers, reviewers, editors and hadn't heard about it.  Oh well, it's our secret *wink*
xoxo

To accept the things I cannot change and the money to accept the things I can.  I accept that I am a makeup addict.
I am going to have a big birthday next month.  It will be a year of blogging, and will mark that I can be consistent with at least one hobby and I am so proud of myself.  I am thinking about being consistent in something for the forthcoming year as well.  It's all about me, since I have to live with me, all my flaws, mistakes, etc. are constant reminders that I am not perfect.
So, with my acceptance, I am admitting I am obsessed with yet another palette.  The thing is, I already have a great version of said palette. See that photo?  I have the six eyeshadow palette and individuals (large) of the other six shadows, plus six more in different colors, 12 pigments, and over half a dozen mattes.  I cannot remember the last time I used this palette or any of the other items from Ben Nye.  Not because the products aren't good.  They are stellar, this is a line established for theatre and clown makeup.  It's amazing!  The pigmentation is great, payoff is amazing and I don't compare it to any other brand per se; however it's a great palette for darker toned women.  It sucks that I have to categorize women, but there aren't many products which chocolate girls can rock without layering products.
I am tempted though...I have received e-mail from Beauties-Factory I had ordered the Manly palette some time ago, so the seller still sends me sales and product information.  I mean they have all my addictions in one place: nails, eyelashes, makeup brushes, eye shadows, rouges, hair!  What's a girl to do?
 
Admit she is an addict!
So, for $29.99 (I got a deal) this bad boy is en route to my home, to have a cozy space made for it next to it's other orphaned family of pretty colors.  Sometimes, it's okay to give in to temptation.  I will now, seek assistance, the final step in admitting I need intervention.
xoxo
I went to Ross today on the quest for a winter wrap to wear in the office since today was the close of summer here in the USA.  I saw a few cool shoes, but passed on them since they weren't anything over the top.  For me, that means, it has to be incredibly different than what I already own, and my black pumps are morphing into the same look right about now.  I cannot believe I found the most pigmented eyeshadow palette for less than $3.00 USD!  It's so yummy I can't wait to play in it.  For some odd reason, it's easier for me to "pop the cherry" of cheap products rather than the upper or high end products.  It's like wearing your new school clothes before school.  I'm twisted, but it's just me and I accept that I have no rhyme for that reason.  Behold:
Zee price:
 
Check out the pigmentation:
 
xoxo

Great Deals!

by on 8:00 PM
I went to Ross today on the quest for a winter wrap to wear in the office since today was the close of summer here in the USA.  I saw a few ...
I am finally figuring out this camera and it's quite fun.  I see why they call it cam whoring.  You have to take so many photos in order to get a good few.  Especially, if you are taking it of yourself, that's double duty.  Well, this model has been very inspirational to me for a good long while and in the spirit of alternative looks on the runway and trends for A/W 2009, I wanted to replicate someone, but I was lazy.  This is just before bed and it's one product.  Black lipstick from Jordana for .99 (no cent key) at the drugstore.  My skin is dry, my brows aren't done and I could really use some mascara, but hey, it's a simple look.  Lazy girl guide to making runway to everyday.  No! I actually lied, as I would not wear this look even to a club.  It's actually boring, but the model is just lovely, and whilst some people are good at mimicking Kim Kardashian, Britney Spears, or whatever celebrity is in, it only serves harm for me to do so.  I may get a glass of wine and get to feeling myself and have a go, but ....right now?  Not a good idea, I can't be responsible for making anyone's eyes bleed :) I need to learn Photoshop or some editing program, and work on my skin :/





xoxo

Inspiration FOTD

by on 12:57 AM
I am finally figuring out this camera and it's quite fun.  I see why they call it cam whoring.  You have to take so many photos in order...

Hello Lovers,
Happy Monday.....urgh! I always oversleep and have to hustle to the train to get to work, when I become a (insert today's dream job here) I will sleep all day and work all night. I'm a perennial night owl and I really need a gig that affords me to sleep. Oprah Winfrey said, "Do what you love, and you'll never work again." So...who's going to pay me to sleep? I also like food but not to cook, to eat? Let me know who's hiring.
Today's post is for my girls on the media. Entice was raving about Maybelline's lipstick in Nearly There. Unfortunately, our lovely advertisers at Maybelline neglected to consult with the makeup artist since the color on the model, Jessica White (gorgeous) is not the color you get when you apply it.
The color is more of a pink brown than a warm/soft brown. I think the gloss over it is also a factor. For those familiar with lipstick finishes, Nearly There is frost, and the match is nearly not.
The good news is, I have some other swatches which may be appropriate depending on the look you are going for.

The Nudes:

the proof:I hope this was helpful and as always, if there is a color you are looking for and want some swatches, leave me a message and we'll get it sorted. Team Beauty FTW!!

xoxo

Going Nude

by on 12:02 AM
Hello Lovers, Happy Monday.....urgh! I always oversleep and have to hustle to the train to get to work, when I become a (insert today's...

Hello Gorgeous!!!
I am really excited for British soul songstress Beverly Knight's decision to give it a go and take on the cosmetics industry. Due to frustrations with the limitation in foundations for darker skinned women, she took the problems into her own hands and thus became her signature line. Her line launches into Selfridges on September 17 followed by other retailers and online from October. She told Hello! magazine, “There’s always been a schism in the cosmetics industry when it comes to meeting the needs of darker skinned women,” she said.

“If you were black, your choice was Bobbi Brown, MAC or Iman - and even that’s almost impossible to get hold of now. You’d end up having to mix up your own from what’s out there or having to go to companies who do custom-made make-up. Whichever way you do it, it’s expensive. So you make do.”

“As a black woman, you feel like you’re outside of the beauty loop,” Beverley continued. “Before Naomi Campbell, the only black models were very light-skinned so you never felt part of it.”

Hopefully her line will be a huge success and we in the US will be able to try it out for ourselves. Granted, Sephora has made enough room on their shelves for other "new" lines, so maybe ULTA would be willing to give it a go. The industry is so saturated but I am really *taps wood* hoping this line is well received.

To read more go here and find out more.

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