March 4, 2015

Lipstick: gemstones to wax

Being so popular back in the “Golden” days of Hollywood, the classic red lip has made its way back into the 21st century. It’s simple, elegant, and looks great on all skin tones that makes it a great go to makeup look. Even great for those last minute looks. With the rise of this Marilyn Monroe/ Lucille Ball look, as I call it, I couldn’t help but look into the history and evolution of lipstick starting many years ago. I know I’m crazy hahahahahaha.

Starting about 5,000 years ago, ancient Filipino men and women are credited as possibly the first to invent and wear lipstick. They would crush gemstones and use it around their lips to decorate their face. It wasn’t until the early 1900s that the publicized use of lipstick became popular. Before then, lipstick was only ever used by prostitutes or dance hall girls. When Hollywood starlets Clara Bow and Louise Brooks started wearing lipstick on the movie screen the “bad girl” image of lipstick was lifted. Black lipstick was worn by actresses in horror films to add a gothic, scary feel to their characters. Now it’s one of the most popular cosmetics on the market today.

Lipstick

Lipstick

My mom told me a story about when she was younger she used to wear pink or peach colored lipstick. See teenage girls considered wearing lipstick as a sign of womanhood. Not wanting to be considered “loose” they would stear clear of the red lipstick. Elizabeth Arden was one of the first cosmetic companies to make and sell a variety of lipstick colors & she encouraged other companies to do the same. . And in 1915 lipstick started being sold in metal cylinder tubes, just like they are sold today.

I just find the evolution of beauty products fascinating. Sometimes just knowing the history behind something can make you appreciate it even more. Just think, if it wasn’t for celebrities showcasing lipstick on the big screen, we would not be able to enjoy it today. So have fun with your lipstick. Go bold, or neutral the possibilities are endless.

I will be doing some “lip” tutorials with some of my go to lip colors. Stay tuned 🙂

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March 2, 2015

Beauty thats good enough to drink

Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, it’s a beauty routine you can really drink to. Starting in ancient Egypt, women of upper class beer was used for many different beauty needs as well as therapeutic. It helped to reduce skin conditions and freshen the skin giving off a healthy, shining glow. Now here we are and scientists have discovered that the brewers yeast can help eliminate acne, slow down sebum production and the pH level in beer can help tighten the hair follicle. Brewer’s yeast contains ingredients such as vitamin B12, and biotin making it not only great for your outside but for your inside’s as well (just drink responsibly). As a matter of fact countries over seas have what are called ” Beer Spas” where you can go and take a leisurely dip in a giant tub of beer. I’d say “bring out some potato skins and pretzels please I’m gonna be here a while”. Unfortunately there are no reports of “Beer Spas” in the US…yet. Let’s keep our fingers crossed lol.

Beer

Beer

Having oily, acne prone skin and overly oily hair, beer has been one of my lifesavers. Through my research and testing, beer has really transformed my hair and skin. Even my nails. Having incorporated a DIY beer mask and a little beer rinse in my weekly routine, I feel like a million bucks and definitely enjoy the leftovers ;). I still do my current routine but I have found it to be essential to add Here is the DIY beer mask I use on myself:

Combine 1 tbsp. of your favorite beer with 1 tsp. plain yogurt, 1 tsp. olive oil, 1 egg white, 1 tsp. lemon extract and 1 tsp. almond extract.

Mix until all of the ingredients are incorporated. Lightly wet the face with warm water and apply the mask. Allow the mask to dry for 15 minutes and then rinse with warm water. Complete the experience with a cold water splash, and step back and admire your beer-kissed skin.

I enjoy this as a body mask as well. Makes body acne disappear!

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February 28, 2015

Passion + love = you

Everyday we face something that keeps us from fulfilling a task. It could be getting sick, car breaking down or a blogger with no computer (story of my life right now). But no matter what it is we can always find a way to accomplish what we are wanting to do.

When your passionate about something everything else seems like it’s nothing. I have always been passionate about writing. Ever since third grade I knew i wanted to be a writer. All through high school I was in drama, loved to sing and was still always writing. It was my way of expressing myself. And not only that but I love creating things.

I have a friend who is very well known for his love of mermaids & his designs of mermaids tails. Anytime you saw him he was working on some new tail or swimming. He said that swimming as a merman he becomes transformed. I always looked up to the fact that he was not afraid to say ” yes I am a man who loves mermaids”.

Reminder

Reminder

But see you can be passionate about anything. Only thing is when you love something it’s great but perseverance is the key. Work hard at what you love don’t let others dull your shine. That’s my biggest thing to my readers. Don’t ever be afraid to be you or feel inadequate because of your passion. Don’t apologize for being you, because you is beautiful. You never need to compare yourself to anyone or impress. If people don’t like it then it’s not worth it.

Take your passion and make it happen! Knock down every door, jump over the bumps in the road & keep going! Be strong, be real , be you & now you are loved! Hope you all have a great day! 🙂

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February 26, 2015

Midnight strikes at M.A.C.

Back in theatres on March 13, Disney’s most beloved princess magically makes her way to your local M.A.C. store. Their new limited edition Cinderella line is available for purchase now online & will make its ways to stores March 5. From new beautiful lip colors, shimmer powders and eye shadows you may just have enough to fill your pumpkin carriage. Each product is made to enhance all your important features and make you feel just like a princess. The new line is transformed in specifically designed pearlized light lavender blue packaging that gives off a soft beautiful feel, just Like Cinderella herself. It’s enough to make you say bippity boppity boo!

M.A.C. Cinderella

M.A.C. Cinderella

So check out www.maccosmetics.com for all the Cinderella products and get free shipping 🙂 Hurry the carriage is waiting 🙂

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February 25, 2015

All about Glamour with Eva Mendes

Eva Mendes

Eva Mendes

EVA MENDES ALL ABOUT THE GLAMOUR SPRING 2015 COLLECTION

SPRING 2015—Eva Mendes Spring 2015 collection is “all about the glamour.” The designer’s second Spring collection for retailer combines the energy of modern New York with the allure of old New York.

Eva designs for the everyday women to build their confidence with her classic silhouette and cutout vintage inspired pieces. This collection will allow women to tastefully stand out when they walk into the room. When making an entrance, Eva emphasizes the importance of confidence, and how her collection helps women feel comfortable. Eva’s statement pieces will help women confidently own the boardroom, the party, the dinner. Eva describes the spirit of her Spring 2015 collection as a perfect sync to one of her favorite songs— Classic Girl by Diedre & The Dark—talking about being all dolled up and ready to stun. She loved the design process of picking out fabrics, colors, and embellishments—watching her ideas take shape in physical form.

The Eva Mendes for New York and Company has blouses averaging $50, skirts $60, dresses $80, and accessories $45, Eva’s collections are becoming more about lifestyle and her ability to share her life with her fans and customers, wanting to dress her ladies from head to toe for all of their life occasions!

Eva Mendes dresses

Eva Mendes dresses

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February 25, 2015

Oiling it up with V05

If there is one thing I can’t express enough is the importance of hair care. Hair, just like our skin, plays a big role in our overall health and appearance. As a stylist I understand it can be hard to get to the salon as often as we would like so I have a solution that will help in between salon visits.

V05

V05

V05 Hot Oil Therapy is a product I recommend for those last minute treatments. The beauty of the V05 treatment is it only takes 1 minute. That’s right 1 MINUTE!!! Only thing, just make sure you do not over go one minute. (be sure to always read the instructions) This is a treatment that will help restore brittle, dry over processed hair in just one use. Just like the oils in our skin, hair has natural oils but in times need a little added boost. Another plus side with the V05 Hot Oil Therapy is it will add incredible shine and manage those pesky split ends.

Ever wonder what V05 stands for? I just found out that V05 stands for 5 essential vitamins.

So if you need that one minute to yourself, do something you will love with V05 Hot Oil Therapy treatment. Check out www.V05haircare.com to find were you can get your own.

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February 24, 2015

Get the look of Miranda Kerr

Golden age glamour! Miranda Kerr drew a ton of attention at last night’s 2015 Vanity Fair Oscar party.

The Australian model’s look was created exclusively with CARGO Cosmetics by Lisa Storey. Below is the breakdown straight from Lisa:

“We felt inspired by the dress which was custom Pucci, in cream with embellished edges and cut out sides plus a super low back. Miranda and I decided on a classy 40’s glam inspired look with a modern radiant feel.”

Miranda Kerr

Miranda Kerr

TO CREATE THE LOOK:

On the skin I used a sheer cover of CARGO HD Picture Perfect Liquid Foundation then applied the One Base Concealer and foundation where needed for a heavier coverage using the Magic Brush.

On the cheeks I began building a flushed look; first with the cream Colorstick in Santorini, then a dab on the apples of the cheeks with Powder Blush In Key Largo and then a dusting on the cheeks above the brows and tip of the nose with BeachBlush in Miami Beach which created that radiant glow.

For Miranda’s sultry stare, I lined the eyes lightly top and bottom with Swimmables Eye Pencil in Pebble Beach and smudged it with a Magic Eye Brush to gently frame the eye.

Then using the Essentials Eye Palette I applied Metro to the inner corners, adding Brownstone to the outer edge, again top and bottom and gently sheering it out to create a deeper soft frame around the eye. I contoured the eye socket with Rush Hour and highlighted under the brow with Uptown finishing with the Triple Action Mascara in Black. I shaped the brows with a little more drama using the Eye Brow Pencil in Medium.

The lips I lined with the Swimmables Reverse Lip Liner (Love this product!) and to complete the look I generously applied Essential Lip Color in Paris.

CARGO Cosmetics

CARGO Cosmetics

Find more on CARGO Cosmetics at www.ulta.com

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February 24, 2015

Jenny Balding’s Favorite Academy Award Styles

87th Academy Awards honored the best films of the year and stars showed off glamorous, elegant and chic hairstyles to compliment their red carpet look! Jenny Balding, Cutler/Redken Stylist, shares her favorite Oscar styles.

Margot Robbie’s deep side part sleek bob

Margot

Margot

This sleek style proves that an updo isn’t necessarily the best option for evening wear. Margot Robbie accents her Saint Laurent gown with a sleek, just above the shoulder, deep side part bob.
•Ask your stylist for a cut just above your shoulder with a very subtle slant towards the front
•Part your hair into a deep side part, whichever side suits your face shape best.
•Blow dry smooth and straight, slightly bend the ends so it is not stick straight.
•Finish by using Redken Diamond Oil Airy mist for glossy finish.

Reese Witherspoon’s luxurious smooth wave

Reese

Reese

•Create a precise middle part
•Blow dry using a large round brush creating a wave throughout the mid-length to the ends.
•Take the section in front of the ear on both sides and smooth back into a small ponytail at the nape.
•With a small oval type brush, blend the back and front together.
•Mist Redken Fashion Works hairspray throughout for versatile hold and shine.

About Jenny Balding:

Jenny Balding

Jenny Balding

Jenny Balding New York City Salon, Fashion Week & Editorial Stylist
As one of New York City’s most sought after hairstylists, Scottish born Jenny Balding brings nearly two decades of experience in both the UK and NYC. Her salon, Fashion Week & editorial experience have shaped her into the expert stylist she is today.

Jenny is a Senior Stylist at New York City’s Cutler Salon and specializes in cutting and styling women and men of all hair lengths, textures, colors, and special occasions. Her personal mission is to help each client find the cut and style that works best for them and their lifestyle, not just the hottest trend, and she achieves this by working with the hair’s natural texture to create maximum versatility and fluidity. Jenny also lives the salon’s motto “bringing runway to reality” as she consistently leads shows each season during New York Fashion Week including Paola Hernández, Red Dress Show, Diego Binetti & 5:31 Jérôme. Her work backstage has also been seen on the runways of Marc Jacobs, Cynthia Rowley, Betsey Johnson, Proenza Schouler, Badgley Mischka and Carmen Marc Valvo. With inspiration from Fashion Week around the world, Jenny translates the season’s hottest trends into wearable, achievable, musthave styles for her clients.

In addition to her salon and Fashion Week work, Jenny’s hands have also styled the locks of Princess Eugenie of York, Heidi Klum, Miranda Kerr, Karolina Kurkova, Chanel Iman, Alyssa Milano, Jillian Michaels, Rachael Ray, Gabby Douglas, Dannica Keller, the Foo Fighters, and Kendall & Kylie Jenner, to name a few. Jenny also serves as Redken’s Grooming & Styling Expert and consults with the brand on new launches and styling techniques.
Prior to moving to New York, Jenny was based in the UK where she pursued her love of hairstyling at the early age of 18 and became Art Director & Director of Education at the legendary Rita Rusk International in Glasgow, and then Creative Director of the Alternative Hair Show, the most prestigious hair show in the world. Jenny has been featured in top publications such as Allure and Harper’s Bazaar, and on television programs including The Rachael Ray Show, Extra!, Good Day New York, and the CW 11 Morning News. In her spare time, Jenny enjoys rollerblading in New York and watching films and theater with her husband, Patrick.

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February 23, 2015

Straight from the stylist: get the look

Rosamund Pike’s look was a showstopper at last night’s 87th annual Academy Awards.
Her hair was styled exclusively with Oscar Blandi products by Kylee Rae Heath. Here is the breakdown straight from Kylee:

“It was key to have it look easy and untried. We wanted to create tons of texture.”

Kylee Rae Heath

Kylee Rae Heath

TO CREATE THE LOOK:
1. Starting on damp hair I sprayed Oscar Blandi Protein Mist throughout the hair.

2. I then applied Oscar Blandi Hair Lift Mousse and combed the product through.

3. Next, I blew her hair out creating volume and movement. Before using a Sultra 3/4 inch sized barrel and a 1inch sized marcel iron to create texture, I sprayed Oscar Blandi Dry Styling Heat Protect Spray.

4. Once the texture was in place, I used a comb to section from behind the left ear, over the head to the top of the right ear.

5. I pulled the back section into a ponytail. Then, looking in a mirror together, I pulled the front section back to meet the ponytail securing with bobby pins.

6. I sprayed the look into place and twisted the ponytail into a bun and pinned it. Then finished the look with the Pronto Lacca Medium Hold Hairspray and applied the Polish Glossing Creme to the short hair of her undercut.

Oscar Blandi

Oscar Blandi

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February 23, 2015

Make it happen

We all have something that we love and are passionate about. When you attend the Salon Professional Academy in The Villages, FL that passion is all about the beauty industry. 5 years have passed since I was a student there and on Friday Feb. 20 I got to go back, this time as a guest speaker.

I couldn’t believe that I was back in my alma mater giving my story to the next top 20 stylists in the making. It was a true honor. I got to meet many new faces and be reunited with some familiar faces. When I was in school, my educators taught us that this industry has many avenues where you can excel. Holding a cosmetology license can not only lead you to work behind the chair but other aspects of the beauty industry also.

The Salon Professional Academy

The Salon Professional Academy

After I got home it was unbelievable how much the students and staff appreciated me being there. Getting to be an inspiration for them is even more than I expected. I can tell these students are the industries next big thing! Remember guys “if you wake up in the morning and all you can think about is the beauty industry than that’s where you belong”. But most of all always remember to be humble. Don’t be afraid to learn something new, take a chance and most of all just remember to always be you!

So to my readers who are wanting a career in this incredible industry be sure to check out www.thevillagestspa.com and schedule an appt. with Erica or Tyler to visit it for yourself. 🙂

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