Archives for May 2015

May 17, 2015

Lancôme Ambassadress Lupita Nyong’o lights up the red carpet at 2015 Cannes Film Festival

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The opening night of Cannes Film Festival is always a special event, and this year was no exception. Lancôme Ambassadress Lupita Nyong’o epitomized the beauty, elegance, and poise befitting her movie star prominence as she graced the 2015 Cannes red carpet.

Lupita’s lovely flowing green gown with delicate floral embellishments around the shoulders was spectacular. To complete her
“picture of perfection” look, Makeup artist Nick Barose gave the actress dramatic, full brows, elegantly-lined eyes, and a bold fuchsia lip.
FACE:
• Advanced Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate
• La Base Pro Pore Eraser
• NEW Miracle Cushion Liquid Compact Makeup in 500 Suede
• Translucence Mattifying Silky Pressed Powder in 550 Suede
• Blush Subtil in Plum Noir
• Le Duo Stick in Suede

EYES:
• Sourcils Tint Longwear Eyebrow Pen in Noir
• Artliner in Noir
• Le Stylo Waterproof Eyeliner in Noir Intense
• Grandiôse Mascara in Noir Mirifique

LIPS:
• Color Design Lipcolor in Hit List
• NEW Shine Lover Lipstick in Palpitante
• Le Crayon Lip Contour in Plum

#lancomeredcarpet
#lupitaforlancome
Instagram/Twitter: @Lancomeusa

(Quoted or Paraphrased information in this article was obtained from a provided PR-Fact Sheet)

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May 17, 2015

Half up/down hairstyles are here to stay

Half-up styles are back in a big way, but it’s already time to take this look to the next level. If you’re sick of the tired top knot or just ready to evolve the look, try this new twist on the effortless hairstyle, straight from the experts at Butterfly Studio Salon. Ideal for natural texture or 2nd (even 3rd!) day hair, it works with any length and texture. A lifesaver for frizzy hair days and so simple to create – not even a brush is needed!

hair 1/2 up 1/2 down

hair 1/2 up 1/2 down

How-To: Half-Up Double Knot

1. First step: texturizing product/dry shampoo, which is essential for grip and hold when styling. (Kattia Solano, owner of Butterfly Studio loves Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray on the crown area) Lift hair, taking it by sections, spray at the root as if you were teasing and then massage through with your hands to work the product in.

2. Using your hands, section out a “horse shoe” shape of hair at the crown area. Thicker hair can opt for larger section while thinner hair can work with a smaller amount of hair. Rake through with your hands to brush and pull back hair to create a clean section.

3. With a small hair tie in one hand, take a section of hair and pull halfway through the tie, so that you are left with a little “pom-pom.” Wrap elastic around 2-3 times until secure without pulling all of the hair through. (Use small clear elastics so you won’t see the tie, and in case you don’t wrap any hair around the knot the ties will be discreet.)

4. Open up the pom-pom with your fingertips for fullness to create a textured knot, then wrap the hair ends around your knot once and tuck hair under the elastic band with ends sticking out. Keep the remaining length right under the pom-pom, as you will use the extra hair length to help with fullness and perfectly messy texture for your next knot.

5. Create your next section right below the first by taking 1 1/2 to 2 inches of hair from the sides (horse shoe of “V” part all the way around the head). Use your hands again to gather and comb the hair back, then combine the hair ends from your first knot with your new section and repeat steps 3 and 4 – tying right under the first pom-pom, tucking through and leaving ends free. If your hair is long enough you can even wrap the extra hair around in a “figure eight” motion around both knots for detail.

6. To finish, spritz a little hairspray and then make it your own. Don’t be afraid to muss it up – the more texture the better! To complete the look, Kattia recommends adding some height/volume at the front top of the head by slightly pulling/gently tugging hair up at the root with your fingers.

*With this hairstyle, volume is always at your side to rid limp hair and that unwanted greasy summer look once and for all. Play with positioning and create more knots for a change up or more customization for how you can wear it. You can even use bobby pins to change the knot shapes.

For more information on Butterfly Studio Salon, in NYC, check out: http://butterflystudiosalon.com/
.

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May 17, 2015

Butterfly Studio Salon shows you how to create a Half-Up Double Knot hair style

Half -Up Double Knot Hair Style

Half -Up Double Knot
Hair Style

Half-up styles have hit the scene, once again and are quite the “look”!! If you’re ready to upgrade your dated top knot to a the new twist of this effortless half up style, the experts at Butterfly Studio Salon have provided step by step instructions below! The Half-Up Double Knot style is Ideal for natural texture or 2nd (even 3rd!) day hair. It works with any hair length and texture and is a lifesaver for frizzy hair days! This style is so simple to create – not even a brush is needed!

Here’s the How-To for the Half-Up Double Knot:

1. First step: texturizing product/dry shampoo, which is essential for grip and hold when styling. (Kattia Salono, owner of Butterfly Studio loves Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray on the crown area) Lift hair, taking it by sections, spray at the root as if you were teasing and then massage through with your hands to work the product in.

2. Using your hands, section out a “horseshoe” shape of the hair at the crown area. Thicker hair can opt for larger section while thinner hair can work with a smaller amount of hair. Rake through with your hands to brush and pull back hair to create a clean section.

3. With a small hair tie in one hand, take a section of hair and pull halfway through the tie, so that you are left with a little “pom-pom.” Wrap elastic around 2-3 times until secure without pulling all of the hair through. (Use small clear elastics so you won’t see the tie, and in case you don’t wrap any hair around the knot the ties will be discreet.)

4. Open up the pom-pom with your fingertips for fullness to create a textured knot.Then wrap the hair ends around your knot once, and tuck hair under the elastic band with ends sticking out. Keep the remaining length right under the pom-pom, as you will use the extra hair length to help with fullness and perfectly messy texture for your next knot.

5. Create your next section right below the first by taking 1 1/2 to 2 inches of hair from the sides (horseshoe of “V” part all the way around the head). Use your hands again to gather and comb the hair back. Then,combine the hair ends from your first knot with your new section and repeat steps 3 and 4 – tying right under the first pom-pom, tucking through, and leaving ends free. If your hair is long enough you can even wrap the extra hair around in a “figure eight” motion around both knots for detail.

6. To finish, spritz a little hairspray and then make it your own! Don’t be afraid to muss it up – the more texture, the better! To complete the look, Kattia recommends adding some height/volume at the front top of the head by slightly pulling/gently tugging the hair at the root with your fingers. Combine the hair ends from your first knot with your new section

Note: With this hairstyle, volume is always at your side to rid the limp hair and that unwanted greasy summer look once and for all! Play with positioning and create more knots for a change up or more customization for how you can wear it. You can even use bobby pins to change the knot shapes.

The images above provide a great example of the “Half-Up Double Knot” look. Have fun creating your own personal style!

Many thanks to Butterfly Studio Salon, owner Kattia Salono, and her staff of experts for sharing this Half up Double Knot style.

(Any Quoted or Paraphrase information in this article was obtained from a provided PR-Fact sheet.)

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May 14, 2015

Summer glow skincare tips

In the changing season our skincare routine needs to change up just a little as well. Getting to experiment and try out new things is what I am all about and I want to share some of my favorite skin care products for the summer. I find these may be best for oily to combination skin.

Beautiful summer glows start with cleansed skin. I am currently using Mary Kay’s Time Wise cleanser. In the summer, having oily skin, the oil glands can tend to feel like they are producing more oil. Time Wise is lightweight, creamy cleanser that helps to really slow down the oil production.

Moisturize!! Especially here in the summer months. If oily skin can get oilier then sometimes dry skin can get even dryer. No matter which skin type you have, moisturizer is what really balances out the over all look and feel of your skin. I currently use two moisturizers, and one facial oil, each one serves a different purpose. Seba Med is one I like to use to help slow down my oil and clear my skin of acne. The other is my Mad Hippie Face Cream. This one is my anti aging go to moisturizer. I use my Seba Med first let it dry then put my Mad Hippie on.

After we moisturize we cant forget to show the peepers some love. Goldfaden MD’s eye cream has been my eye opener. I use my ring finger and apply on the eye socket rather than directly under the eye.

Skincare is very important but beautiful skin starts on the inside. Healthy eating, and drinking plenty of water is the number one factor to beautiful glowing skin. Below I have compiled all these in a video which I have posted below. “I hope you enjoy and for some healthy eating check out ALOHA for some at home healthy recipes” Be sure to bookmark these!

Watch the video here:

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May 14, 2015

Beautiful Lupita in Cannes

There are few out there who are classier or more intriguing than the beautiful Lupita Nyongo.  Always glamorous, she posted these photos from the Cannes Film Festival on Instagram and I just had to share.  She looked stunning in a green Gucci gown and says they are calling her hairstyle inspired by Ugandan women and created by Vernon Francois a “fronut”….Love it:)

  

 

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May 14, 2015

Diaper Drive Sunday 5/17

Come out and help us support our Domestic Violence Survivor Patty Perez! Patty started an organization called Means Of Hope. She is collecting diapers, wipes and other necessary items for babies that she will be taking to local Domestic Violence Shelters for mothers who have left their homes.

Come out and support Patty by bringing any necessary baby items you can think of!

Diaper Drive

Diaper Drive

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May 14, 2015

Violife’s Slim Sonic Toothbrush Makes Traveling a Breeze

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How many of you live by your electric toothbrush? Do you ever get into a dilemma when you have to pack it to travel? There are no more dilemmas with the Violife’s Slim Sonic Toothbrush. This sonic powered, portable toothbrush promises a sparking smile with 22,000 brush strokes per minute. It’s like traveling with your electric toothbrush but it’s practically 1/10 the size.  There are no cords to plug in and you will have more space on the vanity for other toiletries. Not only is the Violife’s Slim Sonic Toothbrush easy to travel with, you can take it anywhere. It is conveniently enclosed in a stylish case and no one will ever know it’s a toothbrush.

A great feature with Violife’s Slim Sonic Toothbrush is that when you use your toothbrush, the case keeps the toothbrush clean. If you are not traveling, you can easily brush your teeth on the go.  After brushing, simply cover the bristles and put it in your purse, drawer at work or gym bag. The next time you use it, it’s clean as a whistle.

The colors are cute and stylish and if it’s too difficult to choose one, you might have to choose two. For your convenience, Each Violife’s Slim Sonic Toothbrush comes with a free  replacement head and AAA battery, so you’re ready to go as soon as you open the package!

The Slim Sonic Toothbrush retails for $15 online via www.violife.com.

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May 14, 2015

Get your “Alter Ego” w/ LORAC cosmetics

Create a red carpet look in the comfort of your own home with LORAC Cosmetics. Designed and created by makeup artist Carol Shaw, LORAC Cosmetics is the red carpet authority. LORAC is designed to put, as they say, “Care before Color”. LORAC’s products are made with plant extracts skin rejuvenators and more but leaves out all the harmful ingredients. Carol’s goal with LORAC was to create a line that made every woman feel like a red carpet celebrity without having to wear much at all. I had the honor to try some of LORAC’s products I can truly say it does feel like you are walking your own red carpet when you put them on.

Watch my video here:

The Alter Ego eye shadow palette in Dream Girl and Duchess lip gloss creating a custom look is endless. Dream Girl eye shadow palette has 10 long lasting, highly pigmented colors that are bold, and a little bit daring. But don't forget about that beautiful summer glow! LORAC Cosmetics TANtilizer Baked Bronzer gives the perfect bit of bronze without the orangey look. TANtilizer is matte, velvety smooth and comes in three "tantalizing" colors. I used the Matte Tan.

LORAC Cosmetics

LORAC Cosmetics

Be sure to check out www.loraccosmetics.com to get your own Alter Ego today.

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May 13, 2015

Beauty & Sex in the Bedroom

“A great figure or physique is nice, but it’s self-confidence that makes someone really sexy.”
– Vivica A.Fox

Everybody knows that, having a loving and caring partner can enrich your life, intensified with the interaction that you have in the bedroom. A passionate and sensual sex life can help to make you feel beautiful, loved and fulfilled. It also releases endorphins that are said to have other health benefits such as giving you more energy and putting you in a happy mood. A satisfying sex life is also proven to boost your self-esteem, and your overall happiness and well-being. When it comes to beauty, for most women, they have one sole person that they want to find them sexy, appealing and attractive. And this starts with how you see yourself. You know the saying, “true beauty starts within?” well I hate to break it to you but it’s true.
It is so important to feel beautiful and sexy in the bedroom with your partner. You can achieve this by being enthusiastic and confident. A large component of being sexy is being playful and flirty. You must live in the moment. Don’t put too much thought on if you are good enough, sexy enough, skilled enough. Believe that you are. Inhibitions and self-consciousness will show. If your partner wants to try something, then be open to it, unless it goes against your moral fiber. Respect both your partner’s fantasies and boundaries.
A woman who has a defined sense of self, style and class will be beautiful in the bedroom. It is important to be secure with your body. Be proud. That is why working out is important as it will help to make you feel good about your body as well as maintain those endorphins. It is also essential to be compatible with the person you are involved with in the bedroom in order to feel comfortable and feel at your best. If you have a great chemistry then nothing else matters but the intense connection you have together. Connecting on such a deep level will intensify your sexual experience.
If you have been following my advice with a healthy diet and exercise routine, then chances are you will be more sure of yourself and confident when you interact with your partner. It is more important that you feel good about yourself than anything else.
Expressing yourself by getting dressed up in something you feel sexy in once in a while is positive because even if your partner doesn’t care, you will feel that you are sexy and beautiful, thus project this to your partner making a more intense and enjoyable experience. There must be a balance of emotional feelings and physical attraction to sustain a good relationship. Couples today date, get together and usually explore the physical aspects of the relationship if it is going to go to the next level. When it comes to sex and romance, anything goes in the bed room. Problems in a relationship involving sexual partners arise for various reasons.
There are so many sexual choices each individual can have, which can be a deal breaker for couples if their partner has very different preferences sexually than they do. Some people prefer raw, sloppy lovemaking that is intense and passionate. Other individuals prefer sterile, formal and more traditional sexual encounters. Others need stories and role playing to excite their fantasies or experimenting with adult toys.
What is interesting is that what turns on one person may disgust another. This is where compatibility from a purely sexual angle does matter. It is vital to open up the lines of communication of what each other wants, keeping an open mind but not forgetting what you feel comfortable with.
There is no set formula when it comes to the bedroom.
Chemistry plays a vital part in bedroom activities. The way someone smells, feels, looks and acts is all part of this. One couple may like certain activities with each other, but may not like the same activities with someone else.
Should you wear makeup between the sheets?
Yes you should, but just enough to make you feel sexy. If you wear too much eye liner it could run from the heat of passion, so you may want to get water proof to ensure you don’t end up looking like Alice Cooper. I recommend that you at least wear a great mascara or if you have lash extensions or use a lash growing product like Latise or Revitalash, you are good to go. You want your eyes to pop, and for your partner to be mesmerized and get lost in them. A little face makeup/blush is fine, but don’t cake it on – you don’t want it to end up all over the sheets or your partner! Make sure to thoroughly wash your make-up off after you go to bed so your skin can stay at its best.

When you are with someone, makeup is less important for the person you are with because they will be into the sensual part of the act as how they are feeling with you. However, it will make you feel more beautiful and desirable, making you a more confident and seductive lover.

With these tips ladies your partner will never want to leave the bedroom. Now get in there, be your best you and put in that work with your partner Girl!

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May 12, 2015

Summer Hot & Trending

It’s always a fun time when I get to visit with Jack and Megan on Your Carolina! On my most recent visit we talked “Hot and Trending”  Beauty & Accessory products great for Memorial Day and the upcoming hot southern summer days.

On set at Your Carolina with Jack & Megan

On set at Your Carolina with Jack & Megan

Click here to watch the segment

From now on, Sundriven Driving Gloves have a permanent place in my car! They’re not only pretty, coming in so many great colors, but also super chic with a real vintage-inspired 50s timeless look. Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, they are great for protecting your hands from sun damage, photo aging, and skin cancer with UPF/SPF 50+ protection.  They are also really comfortable and just plain fun to wear! Check them out at www.sundriven.com

Megan is a big jewelry fan so I knew that she’d love the gorgeous Flower and Crystal necklace that I brought with me from Sterling Forever! On the website there are so many fabulous finds that it’s nearly impossible to just pick one. With a lifetime guarantee, it’s hard not to love this beauty priced at just $52.  www.sterlingforever.com

Pedi Princess pedicure flip flops definitely fall into my “Why didn’t I think of that” category!  The blingy sandals with built-in toe separators are not only comfy and fashionable, they are a great answer for those of us who hate tissues between our toes or those flimsy throwaway things they give you at the nail salon. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, sizes X-Small to X-Large and are just $15 – $20. Find them at www.pediprincess.com

Since my hair is naturally dry, I’ve been  a big believer in sulfate-free hair products for a while now. And now I’m adding Pura d’or Organic Hair Care products to my list of must-haves. Their Premium Organic Argan Oil-Based Tranquility Shampoo and Lavender Vanilla Conditioner smell amazing, leave your hair gorgeous and are perfect for the summer. They’re great for strengthening hair, adding volume, texture and shine. www.purador.com

Loving the Bella il Fiore Leopard/Gold Shimmer Puff!

Loving the Bella il Fiore Leopard/Gold Shimmer Puff!

 

Megan commented that she thinks the Bella il Fiore Shimmer Powder Puffs I shared were her favorite products yet! Later after the show, I attended a red carpet fundraiser and used the opportunity to really try out these ultra-girly finds….Wow, LOVE these!!!  If you’re looking for a fun way to add a little all-over sparkle, this is what you want.  The body dusting puffs are filled with glistening powder that gives you a beautiful subtle glow for a special night out or anytime you want a little extra shine.  They are available for $18 at www.bellailfiore.com in Pink Powder Puff/Pink Shimmer, Silver Puff/Silver Shimmer and Leopard Print Puff/Gold Shimmer …MY PERSONAL FAVORITE!

And of course I always have to bring a little something special for Jack!  This time I got to “sock it to him” with  Major League Baseball Socks from Stance. With lots of team designs to choose from including “Wizard” (in honor of Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith), “Bronx Bombers” (for the NY Yankees) and the Boston Red Sox, guys are sure to find at least one that they’ll love for just $14 – $16.  Available at www.stance.com.

 

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