Archives for February 2015

February 16, 2015

For the 2015 Grammy Awards, Avon Global Celebrity Makeup Artist Lauren Andersen worked with Katharine McPhee


Here’s how to get Kat’s look:

1. Lauren started with Laura Mercier Smooth Finish Foundation and brushed Kat’s cheeks with Lorac Tantalizer Bronzer.

2. Lauren then used Avon Eye Dimensions Eye Shadow in Khaki Chic, using the peachy golden shade on the eyes and the taupe shade in the corners and underneath the eyes. She lined the eyes with Urban Decay 24/7 Glide on Eye Pencil in Scortch and finished with NEW Avon SuperExtend Winged Out Mascara in Blackest Black.

3. To complete the look, Lauren applied Avon Ultra Color Lipstick in Naturally Nude on Kat’s lips and added Avon Ultra Glazewear in Nude on top.

Shop all Avon products at avon.com and follow Avon on:

Facebook: Facebook.com/Avon Twitter: @AvonInsider
Instagram:@AvonInsider

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February 16, 2015

RITA ORA Show’s Off Her Smokin’ Rimmel London Makeup on the Grammy Red Carpet

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Rita Ora debuted a gorgeous silver crystal and sequined Prada dress that inspired makeup artist Kathy Jeung to create a strong, shimmering eye paired with a pale lip, keeping the focus on the eyes.

Kathy started by priming Rita’s skin with the Rimmel Fix & Perfect Primer to ensure her makeup would last through the night. She gave Ora’s skin a bronzed glow with Rimmel London Sun Shimmer in Sun Kiss.

For the eyes, Jeung says “I wanted to give Rita a smokey eye that incorporated glittering silver to match the color of the dress.” To accomplish this she lined the upper lash line with the Rimmel London Soft Kajal Eye Liner Pencil in Dark Brown. Over that she used the darkest color from the Rimmel London Glam’Eyes Quad Eye Shadow Palette in Smokey Noir with a small brush to set and enhance the lower eye area. Then she accented the inner corners with the Rimmel London Soft Kohl Kajal Eye Liner Pencil in Silver and finished this sparkling eye look with the NEW Rimmel London Wonder’Lash Mascara with Argan Oil.

Kathy completed Rita’s look with a soft lip using the Rimmel London Provocalips 16 Hour Kissproof Lip Color in Skinny Dipping to ensure her pale pout stayed put all night.

 

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February 14, 2015

Beauty at its best

I really wish I was in New York this week to be a part of history in the making. Modeling for Carrie Hammer’s “Role Models not Runway Models” is 30 year old actress Jamie Brewer, the first model in New York Fashion history to walk the runway with down’s syndrome.

Jamie Brewer

Jamie Brewer

Carrie chose Jamie, out of thousands of applicants, to walk the runway. Her campaign “Role Models not Runway Models” has real women with real top of the line jobs showcasing her fashions. Jamie is a real role model. Active in the Down Syndrome community, Jamie is the youngest person with this condition to be elected president of the ARC of Fort Bend Chapter. She is not afraid to show the world just who she is and I feel others can look up to her.

Jamie Brewer on the runway

Jamie Brewer on the runway

I like writing about real things and Jamie is a true to life woman who has overcome her fears. She doesn’t let anything hold her back from following her dream. You and I shouldn’t either. She shows us that everyone is beautiful because its how you define yourself not how others define you. Jamie is a definite beauty and a real role model for all women. Great job Jamie! 🙂

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February 14, 2015

How-to last minute Valentine hair style

Sweet + Sexy Side Braid

Side Braid tutorial

Side Braid tutorial

1. Begin with dry, prepped hair with NEVO Invisible Control throughout and NEVO Hydra Pearls through the ends

2. Part the hair straight back in an extreme side part

3. Section out three strands of hair to braid in the fringe

4. Begin a Dutch braid by crossing the middle strand beneath the outer strand

5. Continue working back this way, gathering strands from the top, above the part and side below the braid

6. Once you reach the back of the head, pull strands into the braid from below the part

7. Finish the braid by working down towards the side of the head.

8. Fasten with an elastic band

9. Beginning at the end of the braid, tug and loosen each side to increase fullness

10. Work your way up the head, continuing to tug and loosen the braid 11. Finish by setting the hair with NEVO Super Shape Hair Spray for all-night hold

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February 14, 2015

On Good Day Carolinas

with Faith Evans

with Faith Evans

with my models

with my models

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February 14, 2015

Best Travel Pillow You’ll Ever Travel With

By Lisa Gal

The Obedo compact travel companion is the most convertible easy to use (and store) travel pillow you’ll ever use. Chiropractor endorsed to promote good posture, this pillow helps cradle the natural curve of your back and neck preventing pain while providing you with better rest or work. The possibilities of comfort are endless. Fully adjustable, personalized comfort this pillow offers a convenient, washable, more portable option to your old travel pillow. Those who are always on the go, like the 2015 Oscar nominees and talent, will love this edition to their Hollywood Swag Bag when they receive it in their room at their luxury hotel in Beverly Hills next weekend. Isn’t it time you got your Obedo on too?!

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February 14, 2015

Luxury Candles from Queensland with Love

By Lisa Gal

The supremely triple scented candles by Mooch and Me are a luxury for the nose. With fragrances like Caramel Vanilla and Rio de Janiero you aren’t going to want to snuff out these 30 hour candles. The 100% natural lead free wick candles use soy which makes them better for you and the environment. When you purchase their products, sourced and handmade in Australia, Mooch and Me will give back by donating 10% of all sales to a different charity each month. These candles are going to be a beautiful addition to the Hollywood Swag Bags honoring the Oscar nominees and talent staying at a luxury hotel in Beverly Hills this weekend.

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February 14, 2015

Celebrating Black History Month With Fashion and Style

I’m so excited!  In celebration of Black History Month,  tomorrow on FOX-46 Good Day Carolinas I’ll be showcasing some wonderful fashions and accessories by African American designers who all either live in or have ties to the Carolinas.  Be sure to watch live (between 7:15 and 7:45 am) as I introduce you to:

on set

on set

Watch the segment here: http://www.myfoxcarolinas.com/clip/11138830/fashion-show

JEZIGN by JEZ MARSTON

Jez Marston - Jezign

Designer Jez Marston was born in Jamaica to a Jamaican Father and African American mother and grew up in Maryland.  Notably, his grandmother, Sara Lou Harris Carter from Wilkesboro, NC, was one of the first African American models to appear in national US ads.

Jez came up with the idea of illuminated footwear while studying design principles at the School of Architecture & Engineering at Howard University.  In the year 2000, he applied for a patent on the invention and ended up receiving two patents for his technology.

Jezigns Illuminated Footwear

The shoes have an on/off button on the side, allowing for continuous or selective illumination in the sole and a replaceable battery compartment in the tongue of the shoe that powers the technology.  There is no blinking or flashing once the lights are on.

Jez’s designs have been featured in numerous publications including NY Daily News and STAR Magazine and are very popular with celebrities including Chris Brown, who wore them one year to the American Music Awards.

You can find his newer designs later this year in Downtown Locker Room (DTLR) retail stores and other select retailers or get additional information at www.jezign.net.  Follow Jez on Instagram: @deuce_17.

DEJABOTIES by DJ BOYD and STEVEN ALSTON

DJ Boyd, Steven Altston-Dejaboties

In 2013 DJ Boyd and Steven Alston had the idea of making just a few bow-ties for themselves for formal events. Later, they decided to turn it into a business with the help of DJ’s mom, who was an established seamstress in South Carolina. The entrepreneurs took custom orders and she made them. They eventually converted part of their home into a what they call a “sewing sweatshop”, often staying up late nights making, packaging & shipping orders.  They both knew that sacrificing and dedication came with the territory if they wanted to get their business off the ground.  They encourage everyone to “allow your passion to align with your purpose” and to live everyday with a purpose and passion for what you do!

Model Michael French

My first model, Michael French, will be wearing pieces from their Black History Line which includes a leather & kente cloth bow-tie, matching pocket square, burlap lapel flower & Egyptian-inspired cufflinks, as a nod to African American heritage.

All of their creations are custom made; bow-ties are adjustable/1-size fits all; and they also design lapel pins for men as well as lapel flowers.

You can find their designs at Silverfly in Charlotte or place custom orders at www.dejaboties.com 

 

MANAZHE’ by ALESHIA MATTHEWS

Aleshia Matthews-Manazhe Designs

Aleshia Matthews has been designing since she was a child, growing up watching her mother and grandmother sew.  After studying clothing & textile design, graphic design, marketing and advertising at the University of North Carolina Greensboro she launched her strong, sexy, fun & fearless line in 2011!

All of Aleshia’s designs focus on the bodies of the people wearing them.  Her brand motto is “The idea inside the clothes”.

Billie Rose Tacher

Her model Billie-Rose Tachter will be wearing a Manazhe’ statement piece that can be worn as a coat or evening dress.  Underneath, a green body-conscious lace dress is the perfect compliment to the white silk fabric with black damask print. With this outfit you’re ready for anything!

To shop Manazhe’ Designs or for  more information on Aleshia Matthews, please visit: www.manazhe.com

ROBERT CRAIG

Robert Craig

Robert Craig also started designing at a young age, creating clothing  in high school at 15.  He studied at  Norfolk State University and the Fashion Institute of Technology and has designed for clients throughout the United States including four-time Grammy Award Winner Karen Clark-Sheard.

Joining fashion expertise and hair artistry, Robert is also a cosmetology instructor at the Paul Mitchell School in Charlotte, NC.

Tyree Murphy

Model Tyree Murphy will be  wearing one of his beautiful black & off-white creations which is a wonderful example of why Robert has been invited to show collections in New York’s couture fashion week as well as Paris’ fashion week.

Connect with Robert Craig on Facebook.

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February 13, 2015

DIY Valentine’s Day dinner date

INSPIRATION FOR A ROMANTIC DATE NIGHT-AT-HOME FOR VALENTINE’S DAY Or To Make Any Day A “Special” One. Self-taught YouTube Cooking Star “Laura in the Kitchen” Shares Simple Recipe Ideas & Creative Suggestions For A Romantic. Home-cooked Meal for Novices and Foodies Alike

valentine's day video

Valentine’s Day dinners


Watch the video here: https://www.hightail.com/download/UlRRbGtDeFVkMnNFSzhUQw

I love stay-at-home dates. There is nothing more romantic then bonding over a special meal made for two. A stay-at home date allows you to add your own personal touch to the evening. I believe they are a great way of bonding with your partner on a deeper level and make your partner feel special and nurtured. Ambience is always key to a special stay-at-home date. If you take the time to set the scene using creative ideas you will definitely woo your sweetheart. Candles always create a calming a romantic ambience and a table set with a tablecloth, cloth napkins, nice dinnerware, crystal, and flowers will certainly have your partner waiting in anticipation. Choose a great wine and soft music and you are immediately off to a wonderful start to your romantic evening. If you are looking for inspiration on cooking a flavorful, enticing dinner made for two look no further.

In this video self-taught YouTube Cooking Star, Laura Vitale from “Laura in the Kitchen,” will be able to help planning your romantic dinner menu, wine and cocktail pairings and dessert.

Laura Vitale is a self-taught home-cook and hosts the interactive cooking show “Laura in the Kitchen” and “Simply Laura” on the Cooking Channel. Laura was born and raised in Italy until she was twelve years of age and moved to the United States. She is a self-taught chef who started her cooking journey working with her father in their family restaurants. Laura will share easy tips for others who want to improve their skills in the kitchen without any kind of formal training.

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February 12, 2015

Medicine Mama’s Apothecary has a “must have” nourishing Ultra Beauty Balm for all skin types

Ultra Beauty Balm is a thorough hydrating and moisturising product. After I cleanse my face, I take a small amount of the Ultra Beauty Balm on my fingertips. Using my normal routine of upward motions, I start applying Ultra Beauty Balm on my décolletée, working the product up my neck, jaw, and face. I then lightly apply some product to my under eye area, and on my lips.

My dehydrated skin took very well to the Ultra Beauty Balm. It penetrated my skin yet maintained a soft, moist feel all day long. I like the look of my makeup now, as it doesn’t become dry looking in the afternoon! It’s also nice to see on the packaging, all of the positive results you can look forward to from Ultra Beauty Balm:
Instant deep nourishing moisture
• Addressing redness, acne and irritation
• Toning and smoothing appearance of fine lines
• Safe for all skin types

Ultra Beauty Balm gets a 5-Star review! Not only does it impart an ongoing hydrated feeling on your skin, but its natural healthy glow provides you with an enviable youthful appearance! It also uses healthy ingredients!
“No Perfumes • Chemicals, Dyes or Synthetic Additives • 100% Bio-Active Biologique • & No Animal Testing” (Also on the packaging)

You’ll find Ultra Beauty Balm ($32) and all of the other great Medicine Mama’s Apothecary products at: http://www.medicinemamasapothecary.com

Be sure to visit and “LIKE” Medicine Mama’s Apothecary on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SweetBeeMagic

In conclusion: The whole concept and ideas behind founder, Donna Steinmann’s Medicine Mama’s Apothecary and their products is very interesting. Take a moment to read the backstory that addresses the topics listed below at: http://medicinemamasapothecary.com/pages/about-us
Learn about the:
• Philosophy
• Founder
• Miracle
• Apothecary and
• Ingredients
Then meet founder, Donna Steinmann, as she shares a lovely video that takes you:
Inside Medicine Mama’s Apothecary

(Any quoted or paraphrased information in this article was obtained from www.medicinemamasapothecary.com., and information included with the product. Personal commentary was my opinion from using (provided) Ultra Beauty Balm.)

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