August 17, 2015

Orlando kicks it off…The RIGHT way

A 3 day epic event took place in Orlando this past week at The Battersby Art Gallery. Orlando Fashion Week kicked off on August 13 with makeup, models, hair and can’t forget…CLOTHES! I was able to nab front row seats to this runway show (opening night) and get to see up close the beautiful fashions grace nthe runway. It was an amazing display of just how well the right makeup/hair, the right model and an outfit go hand in hand. This first night featured designers Vanessa Shelly, Senia Soto, Fabiola Moreno, Jacquelyn Brooks & Hadascha Brutus, plus hair & makeup by the Florida Technical College Cosmetology Students.

Jarix Fashions at Orlando Fashion Week

Jarix Fashions at Orlando Fashion Week

I joined the before show fitting back stage and saw some familiar faces & met some new ones. Designer Senia Soto of Jarix Fashions is a good friend of mine whom I had met last year was showcasing her new line and met blogger/cosmetology student Pedro Y Neives a.k.a Yazer of http://yazersthoughts.com/ As you can tell from my photos it was an awesome night and definitely needed those other 2 nights 🙂 Its hard to fit all that greatness into one night.

Strawberry Blonde Clothing by Jacquelyn Brooks at OFW

Strawberry Blonde Clothing by Jacquelyn Brooks at OFW

Speaking of those 2 other nights, the show started out on August 14 for round 2 with opening entertainment Katherin Pena and designers Claudia Gutierrez, Joseph Lago, Gloria Woods and Jacquelyn Brooks. Since I was not there that night, photos on FaceBook said it all. Night 3 started off and ended with a bang featruing celebrity artist Jacqueline Valdez (remember her from VIP 😉 and designers Jacquelyn Brooks, Joseph Lago, Sonja Hendricks, Fabiola Moreno & Peter Morales.

More Fashions from Orlando Fashion Week

More Fashions from Orlando Fashion Week

I have been to many fashions shows but never one as up beat as this one. This is a definite must go to show if you are ever in Orlando at the time. Also, its a great opportunity for all designers, & models to showcase their talents to the right buyers. It also gave the students from the Florida technical College a taste that there really is more than just “behind the chair” work. Check out www.orlandofashionweekcorp.com for even more information on designers and more!

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August 17, 2015

How to: Get Bethany Mota’s red carpet look with AVON

How to get Bethany Mota’s red carpet look at the 2015 Teen Choice Awards. Celebrity makeup artist Lauren Andersen gave Bethany bronzed, glowing skin and a stunning smoke eye.

How to get Bethany Mota’s red carpet look

How to get Bethany Mota’s red carpet look

Lauren’s Inspiration: Fun, fresh and radiant.

Face: I started by prepping Bethany’s skin with By Terry Foundation in Matte Finish and applied Hourglass Ambient Bronzer in Radiant Bronze Light and Chanel Narcisse Blush. I also applied Laura Mercier Illuminating Powder on the cheeks for added glow.

Lip: We wanted to keep Bethany’s look natural, so I used Avon Ultra Color Indulgence Lip Color in In Bloom for the perfect neutral hue.

Eye: To create Bethany’s smoky eye look, I used Avon True Color Eye Shadow Quad in Mocha Late and Avon Always On Point Eye Liner in Brown on the upper outer lash line as well as smudged on the lower lash line. To finish the look I applied several coats of Avon Big & Daring Volume Mascara in Black to the lashes.

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August 15, 2015

From Kim K. West to Elizabeth Taylor’s Cleopatra

Pat McGrath Transforms Kim Kardashian West into

Elizabeth Taylor’s Cleopatra for The Violet Files

Today, (8/12/15), on the latest cover of The Violet Files, the editorial site of Hollywood insider and beauty guru Cassandra Grey, Kim Kardashian West is transformed into the iconic Elizabeth Taylor in Cleopatra through the artistry and makeup design by Pat McGrath.

“I would have done anything—I would have trusted Pat’s vision no matter what she wanted—but I was really excited that it was the Cleopatra vibe,” says Kim Kardashian West of the collaboration with makeup artist Pat McGrath.

Kim K. West as Elizabeth Taylor's famous Cleopatra

Kim K. West as Elizabeth Taylor’s famous Cleopatra

“Elizabeth Taylor’s makeup in Cleopatra has been re-created countless times, but for Kim I wanted to create an interpretation that has never been done before, a futuristic 3D version,” Ms. McGrath explains. “I wanted to portray a luxurious decadence by using elements of ornate facial jewelry constructed into shapes that pay homage to Egyptian culture, and of course to the rich exotic character that Taylor portrayed in this role.”

“Her eyeshadow was made from ground lapis stone and gold pyrite flecks,” notes Ms. McGrath. “Incorporating three-dimensional gold metal into the makeup design explores the concept of makeup as jewelry. I wanted the images to be luxurious, evoking a modern take on the opulence associated with Cleopatra’s makeup.”

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August 13, 2015

A’Bliss Studios & Cynthia Meadows create your “crowning glory”

Let me introduce you to Hair Icon, Cynthia Meadows, Master Hair Stylist of A’Bliss Studios, a fresh, new, modern and innovative salon. Crowned the “queen of cuts” and a miraculous colorist, Cynthia excels in her craft, as no two cutting styles are ever the same. Cynthia has worked with celebrities such as Teyana Taylor, Mimi Faust, and Claudia Jordan, among others.

A’Bliss Studio's

A’Bliss Studio’s

Cynthia has many hair tricks up her sleeve, one including her “blindfolded” cut, an act you can definitely catch during her upcoming appearance at Bronner Brothers Celebrity Hair Battle: The Main Event (a BET nationally televised event) featuring Terrence Davidson and more on Sunday, August 16th at The Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, GA.

Atlanta, GA (August 11, 2015)–Haven’t you heard? The shorter the hair, the longer they stare! There is something in the power of a short pixie cut that is simply undeniable. Rihanna, Nia Long, and KeKe Palmer are amongst some of the many beautiful women that can rock a fabulous, edgy short cut. Well that was until Cynthia Meadows came onto the scene, and is quickly transforming the lives of the ‘everyday’ woman through her faith in shears.

Young and undeniably gifted, at only 29 years old, Cynthia Meadows has been acclaimed for her masterful scissor hands. Since the age of 16, Cynthia’s love affair with hair began to grow and she began to build her knowledge base and explore the techniques of the hair industry. Armed with an arsenal of knowledge courtesy of a Cosmetology degree from the Jacksonville Beauty Institute along with advanced education from the illustrious Vidal Sassoon Academy, she prepared to stake her claim in the hair industry. With determination, consistency, and a mother’s fervent prayer, Cynthia Meadows has blossomed into a hair icon, who is destined to become a household name—soon and very soon.

Mimi Faust Crowned by Cynthia Meadows

Mimi Faust Crowned by Cynthia Meadows

Crowned the “queen of cuts” and a miraculous colorist for many reasons, Cynthia excels in her craft, as no two cutting styles are ever the same. She has blessed many celebrities such as Teyana Taylor, Mimi Faust, and Claudia Jordan, among others with her innate gift. Cynthia has not only won over the hearts of many, but awe’s her audience. She has many hair tricks up her sleeve, one including her “blindfolded” cut, an act you can definitely catch during her upcoming appearance at Bronner Brothers Celebrity Hair Battle: The Main Event on August 16th at The Georgia World Congress Center.

BET Networks is set to nationally televise the hair battle as Cynthia takes on some of the most dominate forces in the hair industry such as Terrence Davidson, Angela Styles, and Moira “Fingaz” Frazier. She is excited and amazed at this opportunity. “I’m excited for the opportunity to showcase my talents on such a large platform with Bronner Brothers and BET,” she says. “It’s an honor in itself to be able to compete alongside some of the industry’s greatest hair veterans.”

The Magic of Cynthia Meadows!

The Magic of Cynthia Meadows!

While gearing up for the Bronner Brother’s Celebrity Hair Battle, Cynthia is also hard at work making sure her upscale salon, A’Bliss Studio, is running smoothly. A’Bliss Studio is a fresh, new, modern and innovative salon located in Jacksonville, Florida. Far from your conventional hair salon, A’Bliss Studio’s mission is to bring their clientele peace and serenity, all while letting their true beauty and joy emerge. Whether a woman is bored with her look, distressfully broken, or has low self-esteem, a new woman emerges when leaving A’Bliss Studio; feeling beautiful, confident and most importantly, powerful.

Cynthia’s talents lie far beyond the comfort of her shears and her high-profile salon. With an entrepreneurial spirit, and eagerness to deliver quality luxury, she produced A’Bliss Luxury Hair Care Line, a chemical free, maintenance hair care line. And if you think she’s stopping there, think again. This young visionary is looking to franchise A’Bliss Studios, and is also expanding her lifestyle brand with A’Bliss Cosmetics and luxury hair line; just to name a few. Stare long and hard, because Cynthia Meadows shows no signs of slowing down, and her faith in her shears are leading the way.

Watch Video: A’Bliss Studio’s Beauty/Fashion Film Here & Here

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August 11, 2015

Stay Matte with Rimmel London

Ever find that when you have severe acne or uneven skin tone that finding the right makeup finishing powder is more like war than shopping? That’s how I felt as a teenager. I loved experimenting with makeup but was very self conscious about how it looked on me. I tried so many matte powders, non matte, I even thought it would be best to go darker to help. Just turned out to look like a pumpkin. When I discovered Rimmel London’s Stay Matte finishing powder, I could “play” and not worry about the nasty pimples all over my face.

Stay Matte finishing powder comes in 8 shades, minimizes pores and lasts for up to 5 hours with lasting oil control. Being the final step in your makeup application, Stay Matte is easily intermixable with whatever foundation you have found that work for you and is goes on easily with either brush or powder puff. I have found, that with my skin type, the powder puff makes for a more even coverage, really giving that flawless complexion we all love. The powder puff will contract a lot of product. Gently dab the puff on the back of your hand & keep the excess for later. Start off little at first, then gradually build. It is perfect buildable coverage. From there skin is like silk when applying blush, bronzer, eye shadow and so fort. Yes, I even put it over my eyes before primer. Eye shadows lasts longer, doesn’t crease and really makes the colors POP!

Rimmel London Stay Matte Finishing Powder

Rimmel London Stay Matte Finishing Powder

Since 1834, Rimmel London has been developing and redeveloping their brand to bring you their best. Owned and founded by Eugene Rimmel, Rimmel London has become one of the most sought after cosmetics companies throughout the world. So sought after in fact that the word “Rimmel” means mascara in many languages. So thanks to Eugene Rimmel, we can enjoy Rimmel London cosmetics and don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to do so. Check out www.rimmellondon.com for more information on all the cosmetics, where you can get it and even a “how does it look on me” station. That way you know before you buy ;)Have fun my friends!

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August 10, 2015

Roma Boots introduces new Sadie Robertson line

Sadie Robertson—of A&E’s “Duck Dynasty” and ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars”—is calling you to join her movement to “Live Original” on August 29 at Lipscomb University’s Allen Arena in Nashville, Tenn. This is Sadie’s first-ever “Live Original LIVE” inspirational event and Roma Boots, will join in the celebration with a booth at the event where you can pre-order from their NEW Sadie Robertson Live Original™ Collection, as well as order from their current collection of rain boots.

Sadie Robertson from Duck Dynasty

Sadie Robertson from Duck Dynasty

The event will feature those who follow Sadie’s call to ‘live original’ in all areas of their lives including their schools, communities, and relationships. The event will include several guest speakers and performers, including John Luke and Mary Kate Robertson, Reed Robertson, Cole Robertson, Sean and Catherine Lowe from ABC’s “The Bachelor,” and the band for KING & COUNTRY.

Sadie Robertson and Roma Boots both seek to spread the philosophy of love, and to enrich the lives of others through the convergence of art and fashion. Their exciting new design collaboration will further their missions to “Live Original” and “Give Poverty the Boot!” at the same time. Samuel Bastrian founded Roma Boots in 2010 with the hopes of merging his knowledge of fashion with his passion for humanitarianism.

Sadie Robertson from Duck Dynasty models Roma Boots

Sadie Robertson from Duck Dynasty models Roma Boots

Roma Boots is a “buy one, give one” company that donates a pair of boots filled with educational supplies to a child in need for each pair sold. Additionally, 10% of sales goes towards an education initiative. These all-weather boots are made of natural rubber with soft cotton lining in a fair trade factory. Both functional and fashionable, they are waterproof, comfortable, slip-resistant, and eco-friendly. While they come in a variety of vibrant solid colors, the Sadie Robertson Live Original™ Collection flaunts stylish floral designs.

Set to debut in October just in time for fall shopping and holiday wish lists, the Sadie Robertson Live Original™ Collection will range from $99 to $119. A pair of Roma Boots is a fun and fashion-forward gift for your socially conscious self, friend or family member.

Sadie Robertson in Roma Boots

Sadie Robertson in Roma Boots

Roma Boots can also be found online at www.romaboots.com and in more than 300 boutiques and regional stores around the U.S. Roma Boots are also sold internationally in the U.K., Japan, South Korea and Germany.

Roma is amor, and amor means love. Show your love and “Live Original” and “Give Poverty the Boot” with a new pair of Roma Boots!

For more information on “Live Original LIVE”, visit www.liveoriginal.com.

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August 9, 2015

Made in America: The Julian Chang story

JULIAN CHANG STORY: MADE IN AMERICA

Inspiration: I am a Miami based designer so our collections have the Miami flair, I always try to use bold colors and fun prints, combined with comfortable textures. I think every woman wants to feel beautiful and sexy so our collections project that dual feeling.

My inspirations can come from different places; travels, an exciting performer, art work, textiles or a great book

Collection: I like to work with easy care materials for the modern woman, including silk jerseys, and materials with natural fibers such as silks and cotton. Rather than working exclusively in only one type of fabric or color palettes, I prefer to use the appropriate material and color to make the garment evoke the aesthetic I am seeking.

Manufacturing: We produce everything in Miami. The Julian Chang label states: “Proudly Made in the USA”. This construct enables me to accomplish two objectives; giving back to my country of choice, while at the same time providing employment opportunities for others in the community, in working conditions and at wages that will also enable them to have fulfilling lives for themselves and their families.

Company Overview: 16 full time employees, 6 independent contractors, 4 showrooms across the country, and 600 boutiques throughout the world selling to end users.

Fashion Designer: Julian Chang

Fashion Designer: Julian Chang

The company ships to over 3,000 units a month, all proudly made in the USA. The first full year the collection was produced was 2010, from a small store-front with two employees. Today our design and manufacturing facility encompasses in excess of 4,000 square feet. Currently, the company produces four different collections annually; resort/spring, summer, autumn, winter/holiday. Each collection is comprised of between 25 and 30 different “looks”.

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August 8, 2015

Hilton Orlando to reopen SPA

Hilton Orlando will reopen its spa with a fresh persona come late August. After undergoing a facelift, the new eforea spa will offer guests a truly global experience with bursts of local flair.

Hilton Hotel in Orlando Florida

Hilton Hotel in Orlando Florida

With the soft-opening slated for August 21st, eforea spa will treat clients to such indigenous treatments as the Orange Blossom Hydra-Lift Facial and Beach Body Contouring Wrap as part of its Escape Journeys experience. Florida based products, such as the Pevonia skincare line will be used along with hints of citrus, coconut, papaya and mango, transporting guests to a tropical oasis in the middle of Florida.

The locally inspired therapies join the brand’s signature global Journey Enhancements. These powerful mini treatments, designed by master therapist Sean Jordan, reflect spa cultures from around the world with ancient healing methods to target the face, shoulders, neck, scalp, and feet.

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August 6, 2015

100 years of men’s swimsuit fashions

With summer in full swing, Mode Studios has created a new three minute video giving viewers a visual tour of men’s swimsuit styles during the past century. 100 Years of Men’s Swimwear takes viewers on a journey through the wild, wacky and revealing bathing suits men donned starting in 1915 through the present day using authentic looks from each time period. Maybe it’s time to bring some of these looks back!

Check out the YouTube video here:

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August 6, 2015

“On fleek” with Final Touch Brows

When I colored my hair darker I was excited to change up my whole makeup look, The only problem I had was finding the perfect color for, not only my red hair, but my skin tone as well. I also had just one other problem, sensitive skin! I mean the search was endless. That is until I found Final Touch Brows. A product that finds that perfect shade just for you and is made out of minerals so no more breakouts or itchiness. Final Touch, created in Australia, has grown to become the world’s largest range of products and have over 120 stores in Australia & New Zealand offering their signature brow services. But don’t fear if you are not in Australia because Final Touch distributes to the US, UK and the Middle East.

Beauty, YouTube, Lifestyle Expert Annie Hatcher

Beauty, YouTube, Lifestyle Expert Annie Hatcher

Watch my review video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_MrZJEUSLzE&feature=youtu.be

Created by Danielle Renee who with 15 years beauty industry experience knew something was missing. That “Final Touch”. You have the entire A-Z steps with the brow gel, cream illuminator & mineral powders or pencils. Having fair skin but red hair I found that the medium mixed with a little bit of the blonde is just right. Just like any other colors they can be mixed together to create your “just right” color. The mineral powders can be applied either dry or wet, is easy to apply and you can do it right in the comfort of your own home. As a professional stylist, I have heard from guests that they get a little scared to apply brows to themselves. With Final Touch, it makes brows easy & fun, and has awesome building coverage. If you need to this is a great product to use along with an eyebrow stencil.

Final Touch Brows logo/products

Final Touch Brows logo/products

Everywhere I go I tell people about Final Touch brows. For the first time in a very long time I have had “on fleek” brows and I don’t look like Cruella DeVil lol. So no more scary, or “What just happened” brows. Get Final Touch Brows now at www.finaltouchbrows.com for more products and see how you can become their “selfie queen” and win over $200 worth of brow products. I invite you to get you “Final Touch” “On Fleek”.

“Don’t forget that FINAL TOUCH”

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