Oscars 2011: Best makeup looks

Who else thought the Oscars sucked this year? I'm not blaming anyone, but Anne Hathaway and James Franco looked medicated. Well, at least everyone looked pretty...

Below are my picks for the best makeup looks at last night’s Oscars:

Hailee Steinfeld

True Grit’s 14 year-old breakout star who was nominated in the Best Supporting Actress category looked like a true princess at what was undoubtedly one of the biggest nights of her life. Hailee looked beautiful in her pink princess dress, ballerina hair, and simple makeup. This overall look made a statement, but was 100% age appropriate.

Anne Hathaway

Anne (along with James Franco) may have been a dud as a host, but she shined wonderfully in a red gown which she paired with a simple black wing and a red lip. Anne proves you just can’t go wrong with a classic red lip!

Scarlett Johansson

I was not a huge fan of Scarlett’s dress which did absolutely nothing for her amazing figure, but I did appreciate her pairing a unique orange/brown eyeshadow along with her purple dress. I am usually not a follower of matching your makeup to your wardrobe, so it was nice to see her pair a dramatic smokey eye to offset the color of her dress.

Michelle Williams

Michelle was nominated for Best Actress for her gritty role in Blue Valentine, and kept with the theme by wearing a beautiful blue shadow under her eyes. She kept up with the mod look that she has been seen wearing recently by wearing a white fitted dress, short platinum do, and beautiful vintage inspired earrings. Michelle was definitely channeling Twiggy with this look, and it suits her well!

Mila Kunis

Mila paired her beautiful lavender colored dress with a golden brown eye that made her green eyes pop. She paired this understated eye with a pink pout, and pink cheeks. Her overall look was ethereal, and relaxed.

Mandy Moore

At first glance, I wasn’t sure how I felt about Mandy’s hair and makeup mostly because it seemed to age her. On second look however, I absolutely fell in love with how she let her sparkly dress do most of the work by pinning her hair back, and applying a beautiful orange lip to constrast. Take note: Orange and coral lips will be all the rage this spring.

You can go here to see more trends to expect this spring!

Halle Berry

Seriously, has Halle aged? Halle paired her nude ruffled dress with a brown eye color that picked up the beautiful chocolate hue in her eyes, along with a nude lip, and a rosy cheek. When you look as good as she does, simplicity is key.

What was your favorite (and least favorite) look from last night's Oscars?

Continue reading on Examiner.com: Best Oscar 2011 makeup looks - San Diego Makeup | Examiner.com

Credit: Google Images

Sad movies

I am such a masochist when it comes to watching movies. I either want to laugh until I can't breathe, cry until I can't breathe, or be so scared that I can't bare to look at the screen.

This week I have seen two of the most depressing movies EVER.

First, The Diving Bell and The Butterfly. This movie is based off the french memoir written by Jean-Dominique Bauby. Bauby was Elle magazines editor before suffering a massive stroke that left him in "locked-in syndrome." With the help of a speech therapist, Bauby was able to communicate using only his left eye to pen his memoir. Bauby died just two days after it was released.

Second, The Green Mile. Based off the critically acclaimed novel written by Stephen King. What else is there to say? It's Stephen King. You have been warned.

xo

I'm new to makeup: Part 1

If you’re a newbie to the “beauty” world like I once was, you may be feeling a bit overwhelmed by the different brands, products, and steps involved in achieving a certain makeup look. Fortunately, I have found through personal experience that the key to finding your makeup style in order to build a makeup collection is to start small. Stick to the basics.

First, find a skincare routine that works for you. This is very important. If you’re not happy with your skin, do something about it! I know how frustrating it can be (especially when you’re in your teens) to be breaking out, piling on makeup to cover any imperfections only to be unhappy with the outcome. If your skin doesn’t look good, you don’t feel good.

Two skincare lines that have worked wonders for me are Aveeno, and Proactiv. Maintaining a skincare routine can be extremely frustrating because your skin (just like you) is constantly changing, but don’t give up. Investing in a facial exfoliating brush can do wonders. You can read my review of the Olay Cleansing System here. If you just can’t seem to find something that works for you, I highly suggest visiting a Dermatologist. Click here to find one near you.

The Olay Cleansing System is under $30!

Credit: Google Images

 

Second, find a moisturizer that works for you. I can’t stress how important moisturizer is. This step is skipped by so many, and it’s hard to figure out why. Not using a moisturizer with a high-grade SPF can be detrimental to the appearance of your skin. You may not see the benefits right away (even I can admit I didn’t at first), but your skin will be thanking you in 10-20 years when your skin isn’t riddled with damage from the sun.

Third, find a primer that works for you. A primer’s job is to create a barrier between your skin and makeup, reduce the signs of pores and lines, and improve the longevity of your foundation. Some primers even contain salicylic acid (if you’re acne prone), or color correcting agents (if you tend to get redness in your skin or suffer from rosacea).

Many will disagree with me, but I believe this step is optional on a day-to-day basis. For those that have dry skin, you may be able to get away with skipping this step because your skin is more likely to absorb all of the makeup on your face without it budging. For those that have combination/oily skin, I suggest investing in a good primer that will keep your makeup on your face throughout the entire day. However, I do suggest a primer for everyone on special occasions, if you’re planning on going out for a long night (New Year’s for example), or if you’re going on vacation because climate change can alter your skin overnight.

I suggest using Stila One Step Correct ( this is a moisturizer, primer, and color corrector all in one), or Laura Mercier Foundation Primer which is incredibly long lasting. Both of these products can be found at your local Sephora.

Stila One Step Correct can be found at Sephora
Credit: Google Images



Now that you have prepped your skin, you are ready to move on to makeup…

Part 2 coming soon!

Continue reading on Examiner.com: I'm new to makeup: Part 1 - San Diego Makeup | Examiner.com

I want a puppy

...so I can do this!

http://absolutefucker.tumblr.com/post/3332607153

Seriously though, this isn't animal abuse is it? He/she seems to be enjoying it! It might look a little strange, but I think this is perfectly acceptable behavior. I mean, we live in a society where we let parents put their children on leashes...

NARS Orgasm Illuminator

In this month’s Birchbox (you can read my review on their wonderful monthly service here) I received some amazing goodies, but one of my favorites that I got the pleasure of being introduced to and trying this month is the NARS Orgasm Illuminator. Now, I’m being honest when I say that I probably would have never tried this product had it not been sent to me, but I ‘m also being honest when I say I am so grateful that it was!
As a person with combination skin, I suffer from the ‘oh so’ irritating oily t-zone with random dry patches. Because of this, I am very wary of any liquid foundations or highlighters that may aggravate my sensitive skin and cause me to break out. However, I went ahead and tried this product with the hope that maybe this time would be different. Luckily, I was not disappointed.

Gossip Girl beauty Leighton Meester was seen sporting a gorgeous glow with the help of the NARS Illuminator.
Credit: Google Images

As you know, your first impression of a product can mean everything. So how does this product measure up?

Firstly, the texture alone of this product will leave you smiling. It feels absolutely luscious and creamy on the skin, and not at all sticky.

The color is universally flattering. It may be too sheer for some, but if you’re looking for a healthy glow that doesn’t leave you looking like a disco ball (believe me, you want to avoid this look) then this is for you. The sheerness of this product also allows you to wear it even in the winter when some choose to forgo highlighter or bronzer in fear of looking too “summery.”

The price may seem a little steep for some ($29 at Sephora), but a little bit goes a long way! I could easily see the full-size Nars Orgasm Illuminator lasting me over 6 months.

And finally, how does it translate onto the face?

While I have never been a huge fan of highlighters (I have found some to break me out, or make me look too shiny), the NARS Orgasm Illuminator is donned a “complexion enhancer” which means you can mix it with your foundation, use it as a highlighter, or wear it alone. The choice is yours! Either way, the final product that this illuminator gives is sure to turn heads.

Franklin's 13 Virtues

From Benjamin Franklin’s autobiography…

1. TEMPERANCE
   Eat not to dullness; drink not to elevation.
2. SILENCE
   Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself; avoid
   trifling conversation.
3. ORDER
   Let all your things have their places; let each part of
   your business have its time.
4. RESOLUTION
   Resolve to perform what you ought; perform without
   fail what you resolve.
5. FRUGALITY
   Make no expense but to do good to others or yourself;
   i.e., waste nothing.
6. INDUSTRY
   Lose no time; be always employed in something
   useful; cut off all unnecessary actions.
7. SINCERITY
   Use no hurtful deceit; think innocently and justly; and,
   if you speak, speak accordingly.
8. JUSTICE
   Wrong none by doing injuries, or omitting the benefits
   that are your duty.
9. MODERATION
   Avoid extremes; forbear resenting injuries so much
   as you think they deserve.
10. CLEANLINESS
    Tolerate no uncleanliness in body, clothes, or habitation.
11. TRANQUILITY
    Be not disturbed at trifles, or at accidents common
    or unavoidable.
12. CHASTITY
    Rarely use venery but for health or offspring, never to
    dullness, weakness, or the injury of your own or another’s
    peace or reputation.
13. HUMILITY
    Imitate Jesus and Socrates

I found this at: http://www.justsell.com/franklins-13-virtues/ and thought it was definitely something a lot of people could benefit from.

xo

Stress

I can't remember the last time I didn't feel stress. I was probably still in the womb, and even then I am sure I was neurotically thinking about something...anything...because that is just who I am, and probably always will be.

This past week, my stress hit an all time high and I have been wracking my brain trying to figure out how to manage my anxiety/stress/panic attacks. I have so far made an appointment with a psychologist (which still freaks me out), decided to walk more everyday, and also write. That's write! (pun intended) For some reason, writing/ blogging just seems to unleash all of the stress that I am feeling through my fingertips and onto my laptop screen.

I'm still not sure how honest I will get on here because this is a public forum after all, and not a diary (which I've never been good on keeping up with anyways)...

I'm also going to continue searching for a job (even though it feels as if I will ever find one), continue working part-time at my non-profit organization, and finally, continue writing about everything related to beauty for The Examiner. Yes, I am aware that they pay me virtually nothing. However, I find the writing enjoyable (therapeutic even), and gets my name out there so who am I to complain?

Wish me luck...I will surely need it.

xo

Birchbox: The monthly gift that keeps on giving

Have you ever been suckered into purchasing expensive beauty products? It goes without saying that trying to keep up with the vast amount of beauty products that are in the market today is close to impossible. It also goes without saying that some of the most adored brands that come out with new products promising beauty "miracles" can be not only too much for your wallet, but also turn out to be a complete disaster to your beauty regimen. The good news is that there is a monthly service out there that is not only brilliant, tailored to your beauty needs, but also only $10 a month.

This service is called Birchbox, and I have fallen deeply in love with them.

What is Birchbox?
Birchbox is a monthly beauty gift that caters to your needs.

What comes in each Birchbox?
With each monthly Birchbox, you will receive 4-5 luxe beauty samples. The most brilliant detail about these samples is that they are completely tailored to your needs. Once you have access to your account online, you can edit your beauty profile where you can answer questions regarding your present beauty regimen, your beauty style, your skin tone/skin type/skin concerns, and other various questions to gain more insight into what your beauty needs are.

How much does Birchbox cost?
The best part about this service is that you are in no way under a contract. Honestly, who likes feeling restricted? There are two options here. 1. Sign up for a monthly subscription for $10 which you can cancel at any time. 2. Sign up for a yearly subscription for $110.

Why should I join Birchbox?
The biggest incentive to joining Birchbox is that you get to sample products that are hand-picked for you before splurging on a full size product. Personally, I know how aggravating and time consuming it can be to pick out a product that someone promises is JUST for me, or JUST what I’m looking for…only to be sorely disappointed. Another incentive to joining is that if you happen to love something from your monthly Birchbox, you can buy it directly through them without ever leaving home. How nice is that?

Where do I sign up?
You can learn more about Birchbox by visiting their website at www.birchbox.com. I promise you, you’ll wish you had heard about this service sooner (I know I did!)

MAC and Lady Gaga team up for Viva Glam collection...again!

Lady Gaga may not be everybody's cup of tea, but that doesn't stop her from being one of the most watched celebrities for her innovative, daring (and let's be honest...sometimes downright offensive) behavior, look, and overall persona. MAC, along with the rest of the world has taken notice of just how demanding Lady Gaga's presence is and has brilliantly teamed up with her for a second time to work on the Viva Glam collection.

While the first Viva Glam collection was a success for MAC, it left many MAC and Gaga lovers wishing for something more wearable. The Viva Glam Lipstick in Gaga from the first collection was no doubt beautiful, but it left a lot of people in the cold. If you didn't like pink (and I'm talking cotton candy pink), this lipstick just simply did not work for you.

Now, onto MAC's current collection...to say that MAC hit a home run with this lipstick would be an understatment. The Viva Glam Gaga lipstick ($14.50) is a simple nude that is a surprising and wonderful departure from their first collaboration because it is a very wearable color. The lipglass ($14.50) is also in the color nude, and offers a warm beige muted color that is uber flattering. This collection may pale in comparison to Lady Gaga's larger than life personality, but that just might be what people are looking for. If this gorgeous color weren't enough, all proceeds from this collection go to the MAC AIDS Foundation to raise awareness, but more importantly give direct help to those living with HIV and AIDS.  

The new Viva Glam collection launched yesterday in the U.S and Canada, and launches internationally in March 2011.

Olay Professional Pro-X Advanced Cleansing System

Everyone wishes for clear, smooth, and radiant skin. Especially here in San Diego where a California sun kissed look is always in style, many women and men alike go through costly and painful procedures to achieve a youthful look that seems to glow from within. Fortunately, there are many exfoliating brushes on the market right now that work just as well for a fraction of the cost to a trip to consult and treat with a plastic surgeon or dermatologist.

In the skincare world where cleansing systems are competing with chemical peels, facials, and other costly procedures, the Olay Professional Pro-X Advanced Cleansing System is in a league all on its own. While other cleansing systems can cost anywhere from $225 for the Clarisonic PLUS, $195 for the Clarisonic Classic to $119 for the Clarisonic Mia (a smaller version of the Classic), the Olay Cleansing System is under $30.

Included in this system is:
A 2-speed facial brush
Exfoliating renewal cleanser
2-AA batteries
*Information on getting replacement brushes can be found here.

The Olay Cleansing System is a 2-speed rotating brush system that gets deep into your pores and fine lines, cleanses and exfoliates…and all without irritating your skin. As someone who suffers from the occasional breakout, finding an exfoliating brush that doesn’t irritate my skin and cause more breakouts is a priority. Unfortunately, the exfoliating renewal cleanser was not exactly to my liking. Massaging it into my skin with only my fingers felt like rubbing sand paper on my face, so I refrained from massaging it in with the facial brush. However, this cleanser is optional and you can always swap it out for a more gentle facial cleanser. One of my favorites is Cetaphil.

This system is so effective that just using it for 1 minute everyday will garner positive results. I have been using this system for over 2 months now (prior to bedtime), and can honestly say that I have never seen my skin look this polished, glow this much, or feel this soft. It is gentle enough for everyday use, but still gets deep down into your pores to get a face full of makeup off (or just dirt and oil from a long day).  Another great thing about this system is that it is entirely water resistant so you can even use it in the shower. This is great for someone that is on the go and can’t spend a ton of time on their sometimes time consuming (but necessary) beauty routine.

xo

Hair Challenge

An article in the March edition of W magazine gave me the brilliant idea to start a challenge with one of my friends, Heather. In sum, the article stated that washing your hair with very little product (meaning no shampoo, and just conditioner where needed) is actually great for your hair, and will make it healthier.

The challenge is to see how long we can go (with no cheating!) without washing our hair with shampoo. I am on day 2, and I honestly cannot stand it. I thought this would be a lot easier...

Also, I have a job interview tomorrow. I hope they like semi washed hair.

xo

I love Julia Child

I am deeply deeply in love with food, cooking, eating...and Julia Child. My boyfriend knows this so he was sweet enough to buy me "Mastering The Art of French Cooking" by Julia Child & Co.

I've glanced over the books (yes books, there are 2 volumes and they are huge!)...and I am extremely intimidated by them. There are so many delicious recipes in there, but I'm afraid that I would be doing Julia Child a huge disservice and in essence slapping her memory in the face if I messed up one of her recipes. Yes, I realize that I won't ever learn if I don't ever try and in the process make some mistakes...but that doesn't make this first step any easier.

It doesn't help that there are 2 volumes and just way too much delicious recipes to sift through. I think I'll start small and simply pick one category (beef, poultry, fish...etc). and go from there.

Wish me luck!

xo

Spring 2011 makeup trends

Love love love, can't wait to try all of these!

http://www.examiner.com/makeup-in-san-diego/spring-2011-makeup-trends

xo

Review of the Olay Cleansing System

Check it out here!

http://www.examiner.com/makeup-in-san-diego/olay-professional-pro-x-advanced-cleansing-system-review

xo