Curling with a Flat Iron

Sorry it took so long for me to post this my straightener broke and I was going to buy a new one. I just got busy and anyways this is a long story that you really don't care about :p I couldn't show you the finished look since my straightener hardly works :P I did post a video at the end just in case you didn't understand from the pictures.

First place the straightener a half inch away from the root of the hair for a more relaxed and loose curl. After your straightener is hot twist your straightener in an entire circle until the strand of hair is pointing down. Then pull slowly pull the hair through your straightener. The slower you pull the tighter the curl. It depends what look you are going for. Below are a series of pictures of the process.

My advice is that you play around with the straightener and get used to the feeling because it is definitely different from using a curling iron. I love this look! The loose, messy waves are perfect for summer! :D

If you didn't get how to do it, here is a video so you can watch it a couple times to memorize what you are doing :)

Questions? Comments? Email me! :D

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Pinup girl

I have always loved the 40's and 50's era. I even used to tell my mom that I was born in the wrong era. I love this feminine look, its perfect for perfect for parties, nights out on the town or even shopping! I definitely had a lot of fun wearing this look, it is very flirtatious and innocent.

First start off with a clean face, apply a foundation that is one shade lighter than your skin tone, because this look is very light. Light skin, pink playful cheeks, and ruby red lipstick. Also apply concealer on your imperfections and fill in your eyebrows. To seal in your makeup apply a loose powder foundation all over your face. Make your eyebrows darker than usual, just color in the gaps. The front should look lighter than the back.

Take a pearl white eyeshadow color and apply it all over your lids then line your eyes with a liquid eyeliner:

Next apply false lashes, make sure they are dramatic. You want them to stand out and not hide behind your eyeliner. Use lash glue, don't just stick them on. The stickiness they already have on them will not stay on your eyes or lay correctly. You can buy a tiny bottle of lash glue at any drugstore and they are always right next to the lashes. Hold the lashes up to your eyes and see if they need to be cut to fit your eye shape. I actually had to cut these they were just a tad bit long. Don't throw the pieces you cut off away, save them you can still use them as individual lashes. You could always use them to add a little kick to your everyday makeup. Use toothpicks to apply a thin strip of lash glue and to help you get the lashes exactly where you want them. Don't apply too much glue you don't want to get the glue in your eye or glue your eye shut. Kidding :p Make sure your lashes are as close to your real lashes as possible. Blink a couple of times to make sure they will stay. DO NOT APPLY MASCARA. You will not need any mascara at all with this look. The lashes should be long enough that you can't tell where your real lashes are at. If you apply mascara then the lashes will clump and will make the whole look fall apart. When your lashes are applied and you are happy with how they look fix any mistakes because when you pull off the lashes to move them or alter them it tends to pull of some of the eyeliner. You might even want to thicken the line just a bit since you will still be able to see your lashes.

This is how your eyes should look:

Take some of the pearl white and apply it in the corner of your eyes to brighten up the eyes a little bit. I thought the eyes looked too colorless so I added some Bare Escentuals Diamond Laughter Blush right under my lash line. It gave my eyes just a bit more color.

For this look your cheeks need to be bright pink. You will apply more blush than your normal routine.I am using two different pinks and a highlighter. First apply a the Maybelline's Dream Matte Mousse in Pink Frosting in a circular motion on just the apples of your cheeks and then apply Bare Escentuals Diamond Laughter Blush (pictured at right) to the apples of your cheek and to your cheek bones as well. Blend the two colors together. Next smile and take the highlighter and apply just on the apples of your cheeks. I also apply this on the inner corner of my eye to brighten them up some more.

To finish the look off take a matte red lipstick I'm using Maybelline's Are You Red-dy lipstick. Apply on your lips and use your finger to get in creases. Be careful red lipstick bleeds and if not applied correctly could make you look like you just sucked some blood. :p Take a tissue and press both lips on it. This helps take some color away and also helps stop the bleeding. Do not apply lip gloss, just leave the red lips matte.

Finished! :) Now do your hair, mix it up a bit do a 50's inspired hairstyle and stand out. Put on a cute flirty outfit, or 50's costume. The possibilities are endless! :) Make your own trends don't put on what other people tell you to put on. Don't copy what they are wearing in the "fashion magazines" Create your own style and feel good about how you look. To make this look complete I did a cute pinup hairstyle and added a flower.

Questions? Comments? Email me!

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Mascara Review

Every woman wants her eyelashes to look as long as they possibly can but where do you start? There are so many choices! It can be so over whelming and of course you don't want to buy one and hate it wasting $8. So here I am at your rescue ;) Giving my own personal "Amy insight"

Maybelline Great Lash - I honestly have no idea why everyone loves this pink and green tube. Allure has even claimed it as "Best of Beauty" award. Celebs even claim to use it and love it. I personally don't like this mascara, it clumps all the lashes together and makes it look like you have only four lashes. It doesn't lengthen all that much either and if you are one who coats your lashes more than twice this is definitely not the right mascara for you.

Price: $4.79 - $5.87

Kiss Me Mascara - This one is one of my favorites. It is unlike any mascara I have ever tried. It even says on the tube "Stop painting your lashes tube them!" This mascara is a coat that dries instantly and literally tubes your lashes. Two great things I love about this mascara is that it is waterproof and lengthens your lashes. The only problem with this mascara is that it could improve the brush. If the brush was changed to help separate your lashes then there would be no need for any other mascara in the world. I use this mascara during the summer it's great for swimming and even crying :p

Price: $22.00 - $25.00

Covergirl Professional All-in-one Mascara - I was not impressed with this mascara, it does nothing for me. I don't have much to say other than I don't like this mascara :p

Price: $5.00

Bourjouis Yes to Volume No to Clumps - One of my favorites. Love love love this mascara. Look at the brush it is like a comb and really does the trick to separate the lashes. However the lengthening isn't as good as I'd like it to be, but to fix that I use a lengthening mascara and then use this to separate the lashes.

Price: $12.25

Maybelline Define-A-Lash - This mascara lengthened my eyelashes a little but it clumped them together. I wasn't impressed and it I honestly don't think it is worth your money.

Price: $7.00

L'Oreal Clean Definition Telescopic - Favorite mascara, this one I use daily. It does exactly what it says "clean definition" and yes, it lengthens and separates. :) The best part is that you can add a couple coats and your lashes won't clump. However after 4 coats your lashes will start to clump. Customers ask me how I get my lashes to look so long and I tell them that this mascara is my favorite "cheap" brand.

Price: $8.64 - $10.59

Questions? Comments? Email me! :)

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Sentimental Heart

I have been so busy this past month! With Ri coming, my job and everything in between :) Sorry it took longer than expected to post a new tutorial but nevertheless here it is :)

I wear this look to work a lot, granted I work at a makeup store but this look is great for parties, night on the town, clubbing or even a hot date ;) This has to be one of my favorite looks, plus I get so many complements on it! It is a great look to help you stand out but in a good way ;) It even looks great with glasses!

As always start out with a fresh clean face. Apply foundation, concealer, powder and fill in your brows. If you want tips on how to do this check out my tutorial here :)

For this look you will only use two colors. I am using both MAC colors in Aquadisiac and Hepcat. First take the pink color and using your finger apply on your eyelid starting in the inner corner of your eye and working your way up and out. Stop in the middle of your eyelid make sure to fade the color up your eye towards your eyebrow you don't want any harsh edges.

Next use the greenish color and apply with your finger again (doing this gives you brighter colors faster than a brush and it is also easier to control) and start in the outer corner of your eye and work your way in blending when you get to the pink use a blending brush to blend the two colors so you don't have a direct line. You shouldn't be able to tell where the colors begin or end. This is what it should look like so far:

Next use an angled brush and color in the inner corner of your eye and bend the colors out toward your brow but don't leave any color on your brow bone leave that area untouched. Next you want to add color to your lower lash line. Take the pink and start in the corner of your eye and work your way out stopping at the middle of your eye. Try to keep inline with the colors on your lid. Repeat the process with the green starting from the outer corner connecting to the pink color.

Now take your liquid eyeliner and line your eyes and wing the eyeliner just a bit. Mistakes are okay and you can always tweak the liner with a Q-tip or your finger. It took me awhile to get a steady hand, just relax and do it.

The next step is option but let me say this, I don't care who you are your eyelashes are never long enough to be seen when you have thick liner on so I like to apply fake eyelashes. I used to be so against them, then fell in love. They create a whole new look and lets face it nobody likes to wear the same makeup, outfit or hairstyle. That is boring! So trust me and try it yourself ;)

First always use lash glue because the stickyness on the lashes are just not sticky enough to stay put especially when you are applying mascara. I like to use toothpicks to apply the glue:

Then use apply them as close to the lashes as you can use your finger to press down and get them to stick to your eyelids. I also like to use another toothpick to push the lashes down so I don't mess up my makeup. Next apply some liquid eyeliner across the lashes so that the line from them doesn't show and it also helps them to stick better. Curl your lashes and apply mascara.

You want to use a pink blush to finish the look off and bring just a tad bit of natural color to your cheeks I am using Maybelline's Dream Matte Mousse in Pink Frosting. Smile and apply on the apples of your cheeks. Now take a pearl white color and a fan brush and while sucking in your cheeks like making a fishy face apply the white in the indent of your cheeks to give the appearance of high cheek bones.

Take the same white eyeshadow and apply on your cupids bow (right above your lip) and underneath your lower lip. Then to finish the look off take a baby pink lip liner and line your lips carefully then blend with your fingers. Next take a matte lipstick, I am using Estee Lauder's Pink Champagne lipstick, and apply it on your lips. Then take your favorite pink lipgloss I am using MAC's Pucker Tendertone and apply a dab of it on the bottom and top of your lips for a hint of shine.

The finished look:

And Voila! You are finished! Now that wasn't so hard was it? :p Questions? Comments? Email me!

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Healthy Hair

Hair is the ultimate accessory for every woman and keeping it looking healthy is the key to success. These are some tips to keep your hair healthy and strong.

• Frizz problems? Don't wash your conditioner completely out. Leave a small hint behind, this will weigh the hair down guarding it from humidity and frizz. Make sure you don't leave too much on because that could make your hair look greasy.
• Don't shampoo your hair everyday, that is drying out your hair and scalp. Instead shampoo 3-4 times a week. On days you don't shampoo just rinse your hair and apply conditioner to your ends.
• If you use a flat iron or a curling iron daily it is important that you do a hot oil treatments your hair at least once a week. Hot oil treatments are not only cheap but you can do them in your own home :)
• Always brush your hair before you get in the shower, don't brush your hair after you get out. This is when your hair is the most venerable and creates breaks and stretches the hair.
• When drying your hair use your fingers till your hair is damp then use your brush.
• After you color your hair to avoid it fading do not wash it for 72 hours and only use color-safe products.
• For extra shine, when rinsing out your conditioner use slightly cool water. This also applies to your hair dryer. After your hair is completely dry use the cool button over your entire head.
• Try to let your hair dry naturally once and awhile to give it a break from all the heat and styling products.
• It is good to get a hair cut ever two months, at least getting a trim. Split ends are the worst enemy.
• Your diet has more to do with your hair health more than you think. Your hair is mostly made of protein which it makes sense that you need protein to keep it growing and healthy. Water is crucial to healthy hair, drinking at least 8 glasses a day is not only good for your hair but also your skin as well. If you have oily hair stay away from fatty foods.

Follow these steps and you will have the flawless hair you want ;)

Comments? Questions? Email me! :D

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Golden Gates

This look is perfect for a date, shopping or even work! I have to admit this has to be one of my favorite looks. First things first, start with a fresh clean face. Don't forget to put on moisturizer before your foundation! And fill in your eyebrows, and apply concealer.

First apply a shimmering gold across your eyelid. I am using the color on the left on the Sephora bronzer trio (pictured at right) Use a flat brush and apply all over eyelid not passing the crease. Also apply underneath your lower eyelashes and connect the color at the corner. So you have the base for a V like corner like so:

Next you want to take a darker shimmering gold eyeshadow I used the second color to the right from Covergirl's eye enhancer in brown shades: And apply it only to the crease of your eyes. There isn't much difference between the two colors so it is okay if you mess up. Make sure you blend the colors so there are not any harsh edges. Then take the dark brown shimmery color and apply it just in the corner of your eye. Also apply it on the crease till you reach the middle. It should look like this so far:

Then take the lightest color from the Covergirl set and apply it on your brow bone and in the inner corners of both eyes. Next take a pencil eyeliner and apply it on your waterline. Blink a couple of times and then apply again.

Next step is the hardest and will take some practice if you are not used to using liquid eyeliner. I am using Loreal telescopic liquid eyeliner in carbon black Do a couple of practice strokes on your hand to get the feel of the brush. Then apply as close to your lash line as you possible can. Making the line thicker at the end. Then when you reach the corner of your eye wing out the eyeliner. You may have to tweak it a little with some water and your finger to create that perfect tip. Try to make both eyes look similar, they don't have to match completely but at least look alike.

Your eyes should look like this so far:

Curl your lashes, a good trick is heating your metal eyelash curler with your hairdryer to create a better curl. Then apply mascara, my favorite mascara is Loreal's Telescopic Mascara.

Next apply blush to the apples of your cheeks, and lightly brush your forehead and nose. Then to create a beautiful natural looking glow, I use Wet n Wild's Mega Glo and apply it on my cheeks in a circular motion and on my cupids bow (above your upper lip) and below my bottom lip also to make my lips stand out more. The last and final step is applying a gold lipgloss to complete the look.

Finished! Questions? Comments? Email me!

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Do It Yourself :)

DIY! Everyone loves when things are inexpensive and even better they love when you can create them from the comfort of your own home. This blog post will give you a few tips on taking care of your body using products already found in your house! :D

• Instead of buying super expensive teeth whitening strips, make it yourself! Mix a teaspoon of baking soda and a pinch of salt with a small glass of water until mixture is a paste. Brush teeth after and rinse well. Don't use it too often to not make your teeth too sensitive and baking soda can erode tooth enamel. I suggest using it once every two weeks.

• Conditioner works as the best shaving buddy for that touchable smoothness you want. Apply just as you would shaving cream and shave as normal. Make sure you apply lotion to keep them silky smooth. The best part is that you can use any cheap conditioner and get the same result.

• Rough elbows and knees? Mix salt and olive oil together to create a scrub. Massage onto your scaly, or rough parts and rinse.

• Olive oil makes a great moisturizer.

• If you always seem to get razor burn apply Petroleum jelly while skin is still damp to seal in moisture and keep those icky bumps away. Petroleum jelly also is fantastic at softening dry hands and feet.

• Haven't gotten enough sleep, stayed up too late and have to go to work/school the next day? Apply thin slices of potato to your eyes for ten minutes to lighten skin color and fade dark circles.

• Beginning your day with a hot cup of tea with lemon is a good way to cleanse and jumpstart your metabolism.

• Apply mashed grapes to make skin softer and more youthful. Grapes have moisturizing properties. Mash grapes into a paste, spread across your face be careful to stay away from the eyes. Lie down and let it sit for 10 minutes, rinse with cool water and pat dry. Never tug on your skin or rub it too hard, that causes premature wrinkles. Then apply moisturizer.

• Bananas are great for dry skin as well. Take two ripe bananas and mash them together, apply it on the dry areas on your skin. Let it sit about 10 minutes then rinse.

• If you have oily skin citrus fruits are a fantastic help. Squeeze a couple drops of citrus juice in your bath water and the citrus fruits acids will kill bacteria in your skin and dry up excess oil.

• Lemon juice lightens dark spots. Just take a few drops and rub on dark spots however this may tend to dry your skin so make sure you apply a lotion on the areas after applying the lemon juice.

• Olive oil makes your hair shiny and silky, not to mention repairs split ends and get rid of dandruff. Massage 2-4 depending on how long your hair is) tablespoons of olive oil onto your scalp. Rub it in down to your ends. I suggest heating it first by putting it in a cup and heating in the microwave. Use a plastic bathing cap and let sit for 30 minutes. Rinse and wash hair as usual. I suggest this if you use a lot of heat products on your hair or color your hair. This helps bring life back to you hair after all the damage you put it through.

I hope this post helped keep money in your pocket and help you stay beautiful :)

Questions? Comments? Email me! :)

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