Thursday, March 26, 2009

Recessionista Alert!

Did you know that you have the power to create your own spa-like beauty products at home? Yes dolls! Not only that, but these heavenly concoctions are found right in your kitchen. Our grandmothers were apparently ahead of their time. Back in the old days, (some of which are still practiced today) things like using olive oil on the skin as a moisturizer, to using cucumber slice
to reduce puffiness in the eyes were common. Today, many of the beauty products we use contain harmful chemicals, fragrance, and are tested on animals. Tap into your inner chemist, and have fun! Smile knowing that your being healthy while doing it!

For a fabulous body exfoliator, here is a recipe I have used for years:

Take 1/2 cup of sugar, and 1/2 cup of regular olive oil. Add two drops of your favorite essential oil. I personally love using Lavender for it's calming benefits, and aromatheraphy. Mix your ingredients, until you form a paste like consistency.


http://www.thedailygreen.com/cm/thedailygreen/images/natural-beauty-salt-body-scrub-lg.jpghttp://svc081.wic437d.server-web.com/images/southernhighlands/24757765d.jpg
Now that you have your exfoliator ready, on DRY skin, start with your feet. Gently exfoliating your body with your heads. Work your way up in smooth motions towards your heart. Your not only sloughing away skin, but you are improving your circulation. Have someone help you with your back if possible. Next, rinse your skin. I promise cookies, you will gain the softest skin you have had in awhile.
Very important to remember, avoid your face, and neck as the sugar, and oil can irritate this delicate skin. Also, if you break out after exfoliating, this is normal, as you have sloughed away dead skin cells. What is left underneath, can spring forward but will dissapear in a couple of days.

Stay tuned gorgeous gals!

Friday, March 6, 2009

Gorgeous Gal Alert!

I had the wonderful opportunity to work with photographer Shannon Williams Photography, and the gorgeous model: Amy Crandall of Heyman Talent. Shannon Williams is a Columbus, Ohio based wedding and portrait photographer, with editorial sensibility and a fashion-conscious approach to his imagery. He specializes in on-location, natural light contemporary portraiture, and travels for destination weddings across the U.S., and abroad. Check him out:
www.shannonwilliamsphotography.com

The model Amy Crandall is a graduate of Kent State University with an Art degree in Photo Illustration. In addition to modeling, she enjoys photography, fashion, her family, and friends.

Amy arrived to the shoot fresh from the gym. She is one of those women that look stunning with absolutely no make-up on, even after a hard workout. She wore simple Victoria Secret Sport attire, her hair was loose, and flowy. Shannon the photographer, was laid back, down to earth, and very warm.

Our music of choice was Jordan Sparks,Madamoiselle
and, Where The Light Is: John Mayer Live In Los Angeles
. The fireplace kept us warm while we worked. Great people, great pictures, oh happy day!

http://shannonwilliamsphoto.typepad.com/.a/6a00d834aef4c169e2011168c6c050970c-pi
We started off with a classic beauty shot. I kept the make-up simple, fresh, and pretty.

http://shannonwilliamsphoto.typepad.com/.a/6a00d834aef4c169e20112793b2a1528a4-pi
Once on location, I added a pretty teal colored eyeshadow, to make Amy's eyes pop.

http://shannonwilliamsphoto.typepad.com/.a/6a00d834aef4c169e20112793b2a5628a4-pi

A little more of a romantic look..



We then ended with this 60's Chic Retro look. Isn't it fabulous?

Want to achieve this look? Pick up a luminous light reflecting foundation by Clarins True Radiance Foundation
:
http://imgla11.strawberrynet.com/images/products/04982680302.jpg



ModelCo Glass Ultra Lip Gloss

http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/img-thing?.out=jpg&size=l&tid=784971
http://images.glam.com/glampress/beauty/mascara/Individual_Lashes.JPG
ModelCo - Lash Out Individual Lashes + Glue
were applied to really play up her strongest feature :)


For the mod look, try a nuetral lipstick, and a dark purple eyeshadow. Top it off with extra thick false black lashes, and bronze on the cheeks! Muey bonita!



Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Gorgeous Gal Alert!




I had the great pleasure of working with the fabulous Nia Noelle of Power 107.5. She is one of the top radio d.j.'s in Central Ohio. Her famous jingle is, "I've got my stilleto out the door".. So cute right? I provided make-up for the stations anniversary party, and it was great fun. Nia has such a beautiful spirit, and is so down to earth despite being a local celebrity. Listen to Nia, Monday through Friday from 3:00pm-7:00pm.

Want to achieve this look?

http://discount.makeup.com/store/240/_dsc8603.jpg
I used MAC Studio Tech Foundation
in NW43 color. This foundation replenishes the skin, minimizes fine lines, and lasts well into the night. Great for all skin types.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31SQYxBeE6L._SL500_SS130_.jpg
Urban Decay Urban Ammo Eye Palette
was applied, with a make-up brush dipped in a little water for a stronger look.

http://beaut.ie/blog/wp-content/uploads/2007/08/shu%20umera%20false%20lashes.jpg
Shu umera falsies are AMAAAAZING! Can be re-used up to 3-4 times! You can get these puppies at Nordstroms.

http://www.dutyfreedepot.com/images/ProductImages/042.61.10.jpg

Dior DiorShow Mascara
in a (blue tint) for a really fashion forward look.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41xwnNJFZSL._SL500_AA280_.jpg
MAC Powder Blush, 'fab'. How fitting!

http://www.superdrug.com/content/ebiz/superdrug/invt/175153/175153_l.jpg
To balance out a strong eye, I like to do a nice soft glossy lip in a a sheer irredescent gloss. So gorgeous!


http://divatdiktator.freeblog.hu/files/Manolo%20Blahnik%20Catalina%20Pink%20Black%20NM%20655.jpg

In honor of Nia! Here are some yummy Manolos!

Sunday, March 1, 2009

My Wednesday Indulgence

http://assets.hulu.com/shows/key_art_make_me_a_supermodel.jpg

http://www.artsjournal.com/outthere/supermodel%20cast.jpg

Okay, I am completely STOKED that 'Make Me a Supermodel Season 2' is starting on Wednesday March 4th on the Bravo Channel: http://www.bravotv.com/make-me-a-supermodel

Tune in at 10:00pm est, and 9:00pm cst.

This show has the Americas Next Top Model formula in that contestants compete for the ultimate modeling contract, and are eliminated weekly. The difference is that there are guys, and gals, and WE get to decide by way of a free voting process via texting, by phone, or logging online.

Tune in with me, and e-mail me your model favs for the week. It's fun to follow shows with you all!


Xoxo,