beauty tips

3 Makeup Tips we Learned from Georgia May Jagger

Georgia-May-JaggerWhile talking with British model Georgia May Jagger at the Rimmel London Spring 2015 preview, we of course, knew she was going to be beautiful and charismatic, but it was a pleasant surprise to hear all the fantastic beauty tips she had. It was while talking about her beauty role models (Veronica Lake and Audrey Hepburn) and first makeup experience (Tinkerbell nail polish and Hello Kitty eye shadow) that Jagger also gave us some great insight on beauty tips and tricks she lives by. 

Georgia-May-JaggerTake off your makeup

Think achieving model-perfect skin is difficult? Well according to Jagger, it’s not. It’s as simple as taking off your makeup before you go to bed, something we all fall guilty of skipping every now and again. “I know that it’s boring, but it’s one of the most important things I think you can do.” We have to say, we 100 percent agree with her.

Break the Rules

After explaining to us that her model mom, Jerry Hall, would just “show up to shoots with her makeup already done and they would just kind of pretend to do it,” she let us in on her favorite makeup tip she learned from her mom.

“I learned from her you can do a lip and an eye and a red lip in any situation and it doesn’t have to be tacky,” she explains. “I think there is a way to do everything so you don’t feel like your trapped.” Follow Jagger’s advice and go for that bold pink lip and metallic eye shadow. Just because they’re both bold doesn’t mean it won’t work.

Use Brow Mascara on Your Lashes

When showing off her favorite products from the new Rimmel London Spring 2015 collection, she even popped in a tip using the brow mascara in a way other than for grooming your brows. She suggested that after curling your lashes, apply the clear colored brow mascara to your eyelashes to separate and keep them from clumping.

Dying to give that last tip a try? The brow gel along with other new Rimmel products in the Spring 2015 collection will be available in January.

5 Lip Plumping Tricks

kylie-jenner-lipsWho doesn't want full, plump lips?  Since Kylie Jenner may have a perfect pout, rumors sparked about lip injections, however the truth lies in makeup tricks. It's all about creating the illusion of bigger lips. With just a little makeup and use of lines and textures, you can make your lips look as full and voluptuous as the starlette.  Here are five tips:

Avoid dark colors

We love a plum lip color as much as the next person, but dark hue lipsticks make your lips look thinner and flatter. If you’re already self-conscious about having thin lips, you’ll want to avoid these deep hues.

Use A Dab of Gloss

Add just a little dab of high-shine gloss in the middle of your top and bottom lip. This draws attention to the plumpest part of your lip, making it the main focus. Using a color slightly darker than the color you’re wearing will deliver the best plumping effect.

Highlight the Cupid’s Bow

Using a nude or white pencil, draw a light “M” in the cupids bow and lightly blend. The light will reflect off this, making it seem deeper and more accentuated. This simple and easy trick makes a surprising difference on how full your lips look.

Create A Shadow

You can either take light brown eyeliner or a little bit of brown eye shadow onto an angle brush, and apply to the underside on the bottom of your bottom lip. This effect will make it actually look like you’re lips are creating a shadow underneath your lip.

Try the Right Products

You don’t need to have serious surgery, but it can go a little bit past illusions. Try using a lip plumper, which penetrates skin to support the natural collagen production while also providing a glossy finish to the lips. We particularly love this one by Laura Mercier, which comes in four gorgeous shades.

How to Look Sexy in Seconds

sexy-in-secondsI enlisted my best friends to show you how to look sexy in seconds on BetterTV. Now, I'm not makeup artist or hair stylist, but I demoed a hair and makeup trick on each of them. If you look closely, you'll notice I leave my friend Michele with a nice black eye at the end. (#oops )But you get the jist! Watch the segment after the jump.

 

5 Favorites

While many new products hit my desk, only a few really impress.  In this 5 Favorites round up, I'm going to fill you in on exactly why a hand cream is worth $85 (no joke), hands down the best eye makeup remover out there, the nail polish shade I'm considering as my something blue for my wedding day pedicure (it's Zac Posen approved) plus more.

Restorsea Hand Cream, $85 at restorsea.com

As a fan of Restorsea skincare, when I received the email about a new hand cream launch, I immediately requested a sample.  A day later, there it was.  Now, my fiance makes fun of me for carrying around a full sized (3.4 0z) tube in my clutch.  The condition of my hands changed within about a weeks use.  They've been dry, but what has been bothering me most was my cuticles.  Now, my hands feel smooth and look presentable.  It's like a miracle cream, not just a temporary fix.

L'Oreal Boost It High Lift Creation Spray, $4.99 at drugstores

L'Oreal came out with a whole new collection of styling products and their Boost It line was made for women with fine or flat hair like me.  My favorite product so far is the High Lift Creation Spray.  After blowdrying, I spray it into my roots and tease them just a bit to create a bit of volume on top.  The formula is workable, not sticky, so it keeps the height in place without looking too done.

Morgan Taylor Nail Polish in Hide & Sleek, $5.69 at amazon.com

I dumped the new Morgan Taylor polish collection out onto my kitchen table and immediately grabbed this one – Hide & Sleek.  From the new "Purples Collection," and inspired by semi-precious stones, this hue is a potential wedding day something blue.  It's rich and reminds me of royalty.  Zac Posen even chose the shade to compliment his Fall 2014 collection during NY Fashion Week.

Klorane Floral Gel Eye Makeup Remover, $16 at skinstore.com

Dare I say that I've never met an eye makeup remover so gentle and efficient?  This is it.  Enough said.  The gel formula is gentle on the lashes and despite the fact that it has the word floral it's title, no, it won't sting if it gets into your eyes.  It's actually made with soothing cornflower.

Emi-Jay Hair Ties, Ombre 5 Pack, $10.99 at emi-jay.com

I can finally put my hair in a real pony tail!  Therefore, maybe I'm late to the game, but I'm obsessed with Emi-Jay Hair Ties.  Their a true beauty breakthrough as they look fashionable and don't cause tension.  I'm a fan of the ombre packs.

Mascara Tips for Bombshell Lashes

bomb·shell n. One that is sensationally shocking, surprising, or amazing.  One who is very attractive.  When thinking of what makes someone look like a total bombshell the first things that come to mind are a head-turning blowout and long, thick lashes that compliment enticing eyes.  The blowout?  I like to cheat and leave it up to the pros, but there's a new drugstore mascara on the market that's a real game changer – an impressive 2-step wand by CoverGirl that takes lashes to the next level. The mascara's called Bombshell Volume, which is part of CoverGirl's new LashBlast collection that also includes ShineShadow and Intensity Liner.  It's dual ended, but unlike other dual ended mascaras which have serums on one end and mascara on the other, this one has mascara on both sides.  Step one is a fat brush with short, plastic bristles that helps to build volume on your lashes and step two is a thinner, tapered brush with longer bristles that help to intensify the volume and shape your lashes.

 

It's genius, really.  How many of you normally use two or even three different mascaras at a time, because they each deliver something different?   This one wand, really is the answer to that.  Here are some tips for use to make sure you're really getting bombshell lashes.

  1. Take your time.  We often rush through applying our mascara, but truth is, achieving bombshell lashes is an art.
  2. Wiggle at the base, then drag.  Treat the brush like a comb.  Place it at the base of your lashes and wiggle it so the bristles sit in between them and then pull up.  This helps to define and separate them.
  3. Don't forget the outer corners.  The lashes on the outer corners of your eyes are often skipped.  Make sure to coat them as they help to make your eyes appear bigger.
  4. Skip pumping the wand.  Never pump your mascara wand in and out of the tube to get more product. It creates air in the tube, which causes it to clumping.
  5. Stick with two coats.  Believe it or not, less is more here, too.  You don't want your mascara to dry in between coats and when over-applying it's a risk you take.  Say hello to flakes.

 

You can find the new CoverGirl Bombshell collection at Ulta.

Want to try it?  Of course you do!  I'm giving away the CoverGirl Bombshell collection and a $100 ULTA Beauty Gift Card.  Follow @BeautySweetSpot on Twitter & RT my tweets about the giveaway for a chance to win!  The winner will be chosen at random on 1/10. 

Also, from January 5th through January 25th, all CoverGirl products are buy one get one 50 percent off at Ulta!  Happy Shopping!

*This post is sponsored by Blue Chip, but all of my thoughts and actions are true.

 

Easy Summer to Fall Beauty Transition Tips

New York days are getting shorter as the sun is beginning to set a bit earlier, but the crisp sunny days are ones to covet!  Yesterday I visited Chicago's WGN News to talk about seasonal beauty transitions.  As a lover of Chi-Town, I venture out any chance I get!  Check out the segment and of course, all of the products I mention are listed below. 

Keranique Amplifying Lift Spray

Hydroxatone Anti-Aging BB Cream with Broad Spectrum SPF40

RapidLash

Schick Hydro Silk

Cetaphil Restoraderm Skin Restoring Body Wash and Moisturizer

 

A Heart to Heart with Laura Mercier

Laura Mercier is one of my absolute favorite cosmetic brands and the "Laura Mercier look" is what I'll be requesting for my upcoming wedding.  However, besides being known for her successful makeup brand, Miss Mercier has been up to something else that makes you fall in love with her just a little bit more.  With September being Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, I was honored to chat with her about the Laura Mercier Ovarian Cancer Fund and find out how we can help spread awareness of the disease and raise funds for research. Why is raising awareness around ovarian cancer is important to you?

Claudia Poccia, the President & CEO of Gurwitch Products, and I have both been touched by ovarian cancer through the experiences of loved ones. For years, I’ve witnessed my dear friend, Ranee Flynn, battle ovarian cancer, and I am incredibly inspired by her strength and determination. When Claudia joined Gurwitch more than two years ago, she was in the midst of one of the most devastating times of her life – the illness and passing of her younger sister, Laura Lia Murray, from ovarian cancer.

As we discussed our personal experiences with the disease, we quickly realized that we had been brought together in business for a greater reason and a higher purpose, and we made it our shared mission to leverage the success of the business to make a difference in the lives of women. Last September, during Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, we launched the Laura Mercier Ovarian Cancer Fund.

What's the mission of the Laura Mercier Ovarian Cancer Fund and how can we help? 

The mission of the Fund is to raise awareness and fund research and educational efforts that will help diagnose, treat and support women with ovarian cancer. We raised funds from the sale of fundraising products and direct donations, and in our first year, we issued grants totaling approximately $450,000.  This year, we are donating 100 percent of the profits from the sale of three products to the fund.

Which three products?

Laura Mercier Bonne Mine Healthy Glow for Face & Cheek Crème Colour Palette,  which is a permanent product available year round, as well as the Matte Radiance Healthy Glow Baked Powder & Mini Face Brush, and Kiss of Hope Lip Glace, which are limited-edition and available while supplies last. (Shop all of the products here).

Why did you choose these three products?

Bonne Mine translates to “healthy glow.” The palette holds special meaning for Claudia because her sister used it when undergoing treatment for ovarian cancer. We decided to make it a permanent fundraising product in her honor.

The other two products also support this philosophy. I love how all of the products, used together or alone, complement every skin tone and truly provide a natural “bonne mine.”

***If you'd like to make a direct donation to the Fund, you can do so here

Pre-Fall Beauty: Easy Transitions

I'm beyond ready for fall as I'm borderline pushing the envelope on pre-fall and anxiously awaiting the temperatures to get a little crisper so I can break out some of my warmer clothing.  Layers, layers and more layers.  Here are some ways you can begin your transition flawlessly.

Lips: Swap your coral lipsticks for a deep, burgundy shade.  If you're not into wearing lipstick, that's OK because this season all types of lacquers are in.  Opaques to sheers, whatever floats your boat. 

Skin: It's time to go matte.  While you may not have been wearing much face makeup all summer long (who would?), fall calls for a more refined look.  Being shine free looks more polished.  

Body: Switch up your lotions and potions for thicker formulas. This goes for your face too. Make sure it quenches your skin so you don't have to worry about dryness as the season gets colder.

Hair: Say sienora to beachy waves and take it back to the '80's with mega volume. The bigger the better!

Nails: Swap out your pops of color for black matte polish.  The texture adds interest and when done right, dark shades look classy.

Eyes: Ditch your black or brown liner and amp it up with blue, cobalt blue if you dare.

Sponsored: Surviving Wedding Season Stress

One day you'll wake up and your life will go from normal (or whatever that means to you) to the new normal, which includes engagements, weddings and for some... even babies.  It's all happening.  This new-normal is an overdrive of emotions, obligations and commitments that are of course full of blissful moments, but also super stressful!  Here's how I've been keeping my cool (literally)... Being everywhere on time looking and smelling fresh (since stress sweat is the smelliest), check in hand, without going broke and praying that my Rent the Runway dresses will fit... can make a couple a little nuts.  I’ve relied on Secret Clinical Strength Stress Response and lots of laughter to get me through.  Stories of proof:

Story 1: Two weekends ago Joe and I went to attend my good friend's wedding in Cape Cod.  After eight hours of driving there from NYC (we hit some traffic), I was freaking out that we weren't going to make it to the ceremony on time.  We had 30 minutes in the hotel to get ready, so I didn't even shower!  (I know, gross.)  I threw on some Secret Clinical Strength Stress Response Deodorant, dry shampoo in my hair and spritzed some perfume on my neck.  Slipped on my dress and was out the door!  Stressed, but stress sweat odor free - another success!

Story 2: In May, Joe was in a wedding in NJ, which meant I had to drive to the hotel near the reception alone.  1. I don't drive.  2. I don't drive.  This was hysterical.  After two pep talks: one from Joe after the ceremony about what time I should leave so I don't hit traffic heading up to the reception, and one from my parents asking a thousand times if I wanted them to drop me off, I told myself I could do it.  I was supposed to call Joe before I left, but I didn't want him to be nervous knowing I was on the road.  So, I left two hours early to head 45 minutes North and got there flawlessly... in my Louboutins no less.  No sweat.

Story 3: Before my own engagement party I rightfully decided to get a blowout with my best friend in NYC before heading home to NJ.  Well, thinking it would put my mind at ease, it was a horrific experience.  I came out with Shirley Temple like curls on my bob and had 30 minutes before we had to leave the city to get to our party on time.  There was no salvaging it.  I jumped into the shower like a ninja and twisted my hair around a clampless wand faster than ever.  My party.  No blowout.  Total Stress Sweat moment.

Through all of my stressful stories, I was glad to have Secret Clinical Strength Stress Response Antiperspirant/Deodorant to protect me from a stress side-effect I didn’t even realize I could experience: stress sweat – and its worse-smelling odor! It’s the only one with proven 4X stress sweat protection, and of course still keeps you feeling fresh through other sweaty moments (heat and activity). I was a Secret Clinical Strength girl before putting Stress Response to the test through my Stress Sweat stories, but I've stepped it up this summer, ladies!  Summer wedding season is a time of need and with my lifestyle, I don't see myself going back anytime soon.

So, I think my best #StressSweat Story would be: #EngagementParty #BlowOut #CurlyDisaster #ShowerNinja #StressSweat

Can you relate?

Tell me @BeautySweetSpot and @SecretDeodorant  your #StressSweat Story!

*This post is sponsored by Secret, but all of my thoughts and actions are true.

Madonna's Makeup Artist Explains How to Achieve Her Iconic Red Lip Look

Madonna appeared on Ellen yesterday I was amazed not only by her perfect skin, (which she credits dermatologist, Dr. Brandt for), but also by classic red lip that she wore again last night to the premiere of her MDNA Tour documentary in NYC.  I got the scoop on her lip look from her makeup artist, Sammy H. Mourabit, who took inspiration from Marlene Deitrich’s iconic 1930’s look from the movie “Morocco.”

First, Sammy contoured Madonna's lips into a heart shape reminiscent of the 30’s style with Votre Vu's Drawmatic Lip Liner in Naked (coming out in September).

Then, he used two shades of lipstick, specifically Votre Vu's French Kiss Moisture Riche Lipstick in Margaux and Annette (coming out in September) to create a luminous and voluptuous effect.

He applied the darker tone, Margaux, to the outer lines of the lip and the lighter tone, Annette, to the inner lip.  This creates an illusion of a full, dimensional lip look.  You can do this with any color.  Not just red.

Oscar Beauty Must-Haves: What the Pros Used

After being glued to red carpet coverage and speaking with publicists, makeup artists and hairstylists all day yesterday, I am beyond over the Oscars!  Truth.  However, there's so much to talk about.  Here's a round up of some of the beauty loot the pros used on celebs like Jennifer Aniston, Jennifer Hudson, Adele and more before they hit the carpet.  Believe it or not, a lot of it is from the drugstore!

For an added shine boost, Jennifer Hudson's stylist, Kiyah Wright used Clairol Professional Jazzing in Coffee Bean, let it sit for five minutes and washed it out before shampooing.

To enhance her spray tan (which she got the day before the Oscars) Salma Hayek's makeup artist, Jo Strettell, applied St. Tropez Gradual Tan Plus Firming Body Lotion to her body before she hit the red carpet.

To mimic her soft pink dress, Anne Hathaway's manicurist, Tom Bachik, first used L'Oréal Paris’ new limited-editionVersailles Romance Colour Riche Nail Collection (coming out in March) called "The Palace Life."  Then added a personal touch by painting her grandmother's initials on her ring fingers.

To get just the right amount of smolder, Stacy Keibler's makeup artist, Matthew VanLeeuwen glided and smudged Elizabeth Arden's Beautiful Color Smoky Eyes Pencil in Smoky across her lids.

To straighten her hair without it falling flat, Kerry Washington's stylist, Takisha Sturdivant-Drew used Moroccanoil Volumizing Mousse on her damp strands before blowdrying.

To leave a little bit of sheen on her skin, Jenna Dewan-Tatum's makeup artist, Kayleen McAdams, used Tarte Pure Maracuja Oil on her body.

To ensure bounciness in Adele's bouffant, her stylist Michael Ashton finished her look John Frieda Luxurious Volume All-Day Hold Hairspray.

For a lasting style with texture, Jennifer Aniston's stylist, Chris McMillan, used Living Proof's Prime Style Extender, which also allowed for touchable hair.

To protect her hair and extensions from the heat of the curling iron, Jessica Chastain's stylist, Renato Campora, spritzed it with Vidal Sassoon Pro Series Heat Protectant & Shine Spray.

On her lashes, Charlize Theron's makeup artist, Pati Dubroff, used Diorshow Mascara in #090 Catwalk Black.

Zac Posen Backstage Beauty Report: Deconstructed Chignons with Aubergine Lips & Tips

There's nothing classier and more New York than attending a Zac Posen fashion show.  It was the first show I've ever attended in my six plus year career in beauty and the one show I'll never miss covering backstage beauty.  This season, the show was held at the Palace Hotel's Terrace Room.  Picture crystal chandeliers lining the runway, intricate paintings on the backstage ceiling, mirrors lining the walls and famous models like Crystal Renn.  Artists from John Frieda, MAC and Essie created a look that a complete contradiction from last year. "There's a lot of construction in the clothes so we wanted to make sure the hair was relaxed," explained Luigi Murenu, John Frieda's Global Creative Consultant. "We wanted to create an art deco, 2013 chignon with volume and personality."

Before drying or in some cases, on dry hair he combed John Frieda Luxurious Volume, Volume Building Mousse through the hair to build up the hairs texture and bring it to life.  Once dry, the team began crimping the top of the hair in a "clap, clap, clap" way so the iron didn't leave an imprint on the hair, but just made it look "as if they had more hair."  Keeping volume on the top, he flattened out and tightened the sides, sealing them with a serum, and secured a ponytail at the nape of the neck.  Separating the pony into two sections, he twisted them around each other and pinned it up into a deconstructed chignon.  The key pieces were two side fly aways that were purposely pulled out and crimped to give the look a sense of lightness.

Kabuki, the lead makeup artist for MAC Cosmetics, was inspired by the snow falling outside during the makeup trial and explained how the makeup was "minimal and snowy in the eye, but brought back into the jewel colors of the collection by doing a rich, burgundy stained lip."

The skin was highlighted and eyes were soft, but the lip was special.  "The look needed a moment of a strong moment, which brings out the dellicatecy of the eye," Kabuki stated.  To create the lip look, he first used Vino Lip Liner to define the outer shape and applied lip balm only to the center of the lips.  This prevents the color from spreading.  Then, taking a single tissue, he touched it to the lip and put loose powder through it to set the pencil without changing the color.  Finally, he applied Lip Mix in Burgundy to the center of the lip and thinned it out as it got closer to the outer corner.  "This way, you don't have to worry about color bleeding or running, but you still have the dense coverage in the middle," he concluded.

"When you put a dark lip with a dark nail it keeps it really dramatic and gives it a bit of an edge," comments an Essie manicurist.  The shade used was Carri On, which is their darkest aubergine.

Valentine's Day Beauty Advice from A Girl Who's "Guy Hot" (Most of the Time)

This Valentine's Day I'm not going to give you a round up of all the pretty red and pink cosmetics you 'should' be wearing for the holiday, because truth is, they're not the colors of love.  Instead I'm going to help you land a man or if you have one already, I'm going to help you keep him.  No, I'm not claiming myself an expert in dating, but I will give myself some credit as I know a thing or two about what men want.  So, when it comes to your beauty regimen are you "girl hot" or "guy hot?" Here are my tips on how to be "guy hot." First let's define what "girl hot" and "guy hot" actually are.  I for one, am both (like Emma Stone), but know when to play which card.  It's important to understand your audience when getting ready for any date or occasion.

  • Girl Hot: dressing for the girls including, but not limited to fashion forward trends like color blocking, anything with a spike, lip color, false lashes, 'it' bags, and heels that are meant just for sitting
  • Guy Hot: dressing for the guys including, but not limited to subtle enhancements, stilettos you can walk in, touchable hair, practical bags, the no-makeup-makeup look
Now, here are my rules on how to be "guy hot" for Valentine's Day.

 

1. Ditch you red lipstick

There's nothing a man hates more than a chick with red lipstick.  Some may think it's because they don't want it all over their faces when you make out, but that's not even it.  They don't even think that far when they see it.  It's because they immediately associate it with their grandma's, aunts, Broadway performers and circus clowns.  Red lipstick is not hot.  While I love to wear red lipstick myself, I save it for girl's night out.  For date night, opt for a moisturizing lip balm under a gloss that brings out the natural color in your lips.  Just dab the gloss in the center of your bottom lip and onto the bow of your lip with your finger so it's not goopy.  The combination will make your lips look healthy, moisturized and kissable.

2. Be real

Wear fake lashes?  Hair extensions?  Get rid of them.  There's almost nothing worse for a man than noticing (or finding out after a romp) that a woman has over accentuated one of her features.  It gives them the feeling that you're insecure.  Hey, I love my clip-in hair extensions, and wear them a ton, but I'm just letting you know what I've learned.  Take it or leave it.  If you must wear your lashes or hair extensions, own up to them in conversation and don't let him wonder.  That's just creepy.  Of course when going out with the girls, a few falsies couldn't hurt!  Bring it all on!

3. Own your scent

Wearing the latest Marc Jacobs scent isn't that impressive to a man or at least it shouldn't be.  Be very aware of what you smell like at all times whether you're wearing fragrance or not. Your natural scent is appealing and you don't even know it.  If you choose to wear a fragrance make sure it has notes of amber or vanilla, both are favorites of the male species, and spritz lightly.

 

Performing A Red Carpet Worthy Makeover, Beauty Tips for A Special Occasion

 

Two months ago I partnered with Clearasil for prom season offering a red carpet makeover to a contest winner (see post). Well, the winner was chosen and the makeover was a blast! Check out the video of the makeover in action. I had a great time working with the Clearasil team on this project and working with makeover candidate, Amanda.

Hair & Makeup Secrets from Celebrity Glam Squads

One of the reasons I love my job is because I'm lucky enough to have Ashley Greene's stylist on my speed dial.  Hey, you never know when you may need cover worthy texturized waves.  Right?  The geniuses behind red carpet hair and makeup looks are who I consider celebrities, really, really talented ones.  I spoke to a few of my faves who work on stars like Anne Hathaway, Jessica Alba, Sofia Vergara, and Jennifer Aniston (to name a few) to get their biggest secrets. My styling trick is that I use a curling iron on hair in smaller sections. Then, after curling the entire head I come back with a flat iron. This creates an amazing texture and smooth sleekness for the hair. - Ted Gibson

My secret eyeshadow trick, whenever I do a big hairdo I will ask my clients makeup artist for an eyeshadow that is close to their natural hair color and fill in their part on the hairline. Especially on brunettes, it makes the hair look fuller and thicker.Jen Atkin, Celebrity stylist for Clear Scalp & Hair Beauty Therapy

I'm all about layering! To get your makeup last longer, apply liquids and creams first and then powders on top to set them. - Mai Quynh

After preparing your hairstyle take your favorite control hairspray and spray it on our brush.  Then, simply brush it through your hair and distribute evenly over the length of the hair from the roots to the ends. This will allow your style to maintain its bounce and style. - Sascha Breuer

Wrap a small section of hair around a curling iron. After the hair is warmed thoroughly, carefully unwrap the curled hair from the iron and while the section is still warm give it just a light tug. Pulling lightly on the hair allows the wave to settle a bit. This creates that great easy going wave pattern that's cool and easy for summertime! - John D., Tresemme Celebrity Stylist

The trick to looking wide eyed and bushy tailed is this: Chalky White Matte eyeshadow. I use a little with a fluffy eye blender brush and blended it onto the cheek bone and lightlty pulled that into the under eye area.  the final touch was placed on the inner corner of her eyes as well as underneath her lower lash line. - Kate McCarthy, Celebrity Makeup Artist for glominerals

To get truly natural looking beach texture, spritz slightly damp hair with a little bumble and bumble surf spray and section hair into four rough peices. Braid each section and finish drying the braided section with a hairdryer and let cool. When you take the braids out, you will have beautiful but uneven texture that can be pieced out with a little hair creme. - Alex Polillo

The US Olympic Synchro Swim Team Talks Beauty Challenges, Fitness Prep & Bathing Suit Secrets

The Olympic games begin July 27th and thanks to Infusium 23 I had the opportunity to speak with the Olympic bound US Synchronized Swim Team about their prep!  Being that they're spending eight hours a day in the pool these women have some serious beauty challenges that come with tried and true solutions.  I also got their tips on how to feel more confident in a swimsuit and one of their answers may seem a little bit '80's, but works!  Check out the interview: Since you're in the pool eight hours a day, what's your biggest beauty challenge?

Since we spend so much time in the pool, our biggest beauty challenge is what we like to call "pool face." "Pool face" consists of red, dry skin, blemishes, and goggle imprints on our faces. The goggle imprints fade after a few hours, but the rest is a never ending battle. – Morgan Fuller

My skin gets extremely dry, especially my face, so it's a challenge to keep it moisturized and looking healthy. – Mariya Koroleva

My biggest beauty challenge is keeping my hair strong, healthy looking and shiny. Most days of the week, I end up throwing my hair up in a bun after practice instead of giving it the proper treatment; so on the weekends when I have a day out of the water, I really try to focus on giving my hair a little extra care with a good shampoo and leave-in treatment. The Infusium 23 Volume Builder collection has really helped to give my hair the extra little boost to make me feel good. – Michelle Moore

My biggest beauty challenge is making sure the chlorine doesn't affect my hair by turning it green, since I am a natural blonde. – Leah Pinette

How do you prep your hair before the swim cap and do you do anything special afterwards?

We don't really prep our hair for the swim caps. If you have too much left over conditioner or product in your hair, your cap is likely to fall off in the pool, which complicates things. I usually just put my hair up in a messy bun and throw my cap on over that. When we're done practicing for the day, though, I make sure to shampoo and condition my hair. This is our only defense against the chlorine. I like to use moisturizing shampoos and conditioners (Infusium 23’s collections are great!) to help my hair recover from the pool. – Morgan Fuller

I make sure all of my hair is up in my cap. If hair is exposed to water for long periods of time, it tends to be burned off by the chlorine. I make sure to wash my hair every time I exit the pool, and I also use a leave-in treatment to help lock in moisture. I really like Infusium 23’s Volume Builder leave-in treatment because it also gives my hair an extra lift. – Leah Pinette

Since chlorine dries out your skin, what are your favorite moisturizers to use and why?

I love the Aveeno Tinted Moisturizer because it moisturizes my face and yet has a little bit of color to even out my skin tone. As for the rest of my body, I like to use Aveeno Shea Butter lotion because it smells great and makes my skin extra smooth. – Mariya Koroleva

I haven't found a favorite yet. Usually I like anything that will get rid of the cracks in my skin, and of course moisturizers that smell good are always a plus! I have been using a cocoa butter formula lately because I like the smell! – Michelle Moore

What types of workouts do you do out of the water to prepare for your performances?

Three times each week, we lift weights to increase our strength. Since we're in the water so often and since synchro is not a weight-bearing sport, we need to lift weights to keep our bones and muscles strong. Our workouts consist of exercises that build strength in the muscles we use in the pool, such as squats, dumbbell push presses, and core exercises. Everything we do in the weight room translates into what we do in the pool. – Morgan Fuller

As a team we do a weights workout 3 times per week. We also like to do individual workouts such as yoga, and definitely a lot of stretching. – Michelle Moore

We typically go through our routines on land, which we refer to as Landdrill, to make sure we are matched and synchronized on land. Generally if you’re perfect on land, it will transfer better to the water. – Leah Pinette

Do you have any swimsuit confidence boosting tips?

I'd say try swimming or synchro! Exercise in a way that's fun for you, and trying something new is a great way to have fun and burn calories. And confidence goes a long way, both in the pool and out. – Morgan Fuller

Many people don't like doing this, but I like to hike my suit up over my hip bones. It makes my legs look longer and my waist appear smaller. But I think the most important thing is to have overall confidence in your look. If you are confident in yourself, others will take notice. – Mariya Koroleva

High cut suits are not quite popular yet in the non-competitive swimming world, but I think it is a very attractive cut on women and really accentuates the appearance of longer legs. Also, it’s always fun to wear a fun patterned suit - it gives me something to look forward to on tough mornings! – Michelle Moore

Wear something you feel comfortable in, if you’re comfortable, you'll be more confident. – Leah Pinette

Red Lipstick that Stays Put When You Pucker Up, Secrets from Backstage 'Anything Goes' & MAC Cosmetics

Wednesday night I had the pleasure of joining MAC Cosmetics at Anything Goes on Broadway to celebrate the launch of their new collection inspired by the show, Hey, Sailor. An hour before the show we had a private meet and greet with the Lead Makeup Artist, Angelina Avallone.  The look embodied the 1930's classic theme of the show: romance, hope and happiness, but what caught my attention was that every woman in the cast wore an effortless red lip that lasted through all the kissing and didn't transfer onto the man.  Here's how and a peek at the new MAC Hey, Sailor collection. "We use the Prolong Wear Lipcolours from MAC, because they stay on and come with a gloss," commented Avallone.

First, Avallone uses the Pro Longwear Lip Pencil to outline the lips creating a 1930's shape.  Then, she fills them in with using the MAC Pro Longwear Lipcreme.  As a finishing touch, she adds a tiny bit of Pro Longwear Lipcolour to the center of the lip.

"It's [Pro Longwear Lipcolour] a gloss designed for that particular lipstick so it doesn't break down the intensity of the color.  So a girl can have nice glossy, pimented lips and when she kisses the leading man, it doesn't come off onto him."

Check out the Hey, Sailor collection inspired by the play.  You can literally duplicate the 1930's look with the collection!

5 Steps to Flawless Stems, You're Welcome

It's sundress season (almost bikini season... eek!), which means it's time to shed your tights and show off your legs!  While I can't wait I also have some work to do and have a feeling you may too.  My biggest problem is that I'm so pale I'm practically see through!  Then, of course there's always spider veins, scars and whatever else we'd like to rid (do I need to mention cellulite?).  So here you have it, five steps to air-brush quality stems. 1. Rid Dead Skin

While it may seem obvious to exfoliate, if you don't do it right, the whole step is pointless.  "To get the most out of the process, go up and down your leg in two sections, from your hip to your knee and then your knee to your ankle, in circular motions," Jamie Ahn, the President of the Town House Spa explains.  The Fresh Brown Sugar Body Polish is one of my all time favorite exfoliants.

2. Remove Unwanted Hair

I've tried several hair removal tactics, but usually shave.  To get the closest shave, the best time to shave your legs is at the end of your shower when your skin is softened and hair follicles are relaxed.  A good shaving cream and razor make all the difference.  Invest in a razor that pivots with the contours of your body.  I like the Schick Hydro Silk, because it has four blades and releases a moisturizing serum when it gets wet.  For shaving cream, EOS Ultra Moisturizing Shaving Cream is my go-to.  It stays put and feels more like I'm lathering up in moisturizer than applying shaving gel.

3. Banish Cellulite

“The key to ridding cellulite is all in circulation,” spilled Ahn.  Your butt, and thighs normally receive no circulation on their own so you have to work them yourself.  Do squats and lunges to get the blood flowing in that area and massage it in a circular motion.  You’ll see in a short period of time that the cellulite is not as noticeable.  You can also try using a product like L'Occitane Almond Beautiful Shape that stimulates micro-exfoliation, has draining ingredients as well as caffeine, which helps to decrease the appearance of cellulite over time.

4. Achieve A Golden Glow

After exfoliating and removing all unwanted hair it's time to self tan.  First apply a thin coat of moisturizer around your toes and any dry areas that may pick up too much color.  For the perfect self tan you're going to need two types of tanner: a mousse and a spray.  If you only want to use one opt for the mousse, but be careful around you knees and ankles.  Apply the mousse like a body lotion up and down your legs skipping your knees and ankles, then spritz your knees and ankles with the can.  Since those areas tend to be drier, then pick up more pigment and spray applicators distribute a bit lighter.  I've been using the St. Tropez Bronzing Mousse and Guerlain Terracotta Self Tanning Spray. (I also think they're both great for the whole body depending on your self-tan style).

5. Cover Spider Veins and Bruises

While you can't make them vanish in a flash, you can cover them up for a night out, but the concealor you use on your face won't cut it.  Try body makeup that's known for covering tattoos like DermaBlend Leg & Body Cover or Cover Fx Camouflage Concealor.  I've tried both on my legs and on the tattoo on my wrist for filming certain segments and they work like a charm.  Pick a color that matches your skin tone and then set it with a powder.  The formulas last for hours and don't rub off on clothes as long as you don't put too much on.  A little bit goes a long way.

How to Sculpt Your Face in 3 Simple Steps

Earlier this week I was sitting in what I like to call "Beauty School," a MAC Pro Master Class lead by world famous makeup artist, James Kaliardos, (he's done VogueAllure and V magazine covers as well as every celeb imaginable from Gaga and Madonna to Lenny Kravitz).  I sat taking note of all of his application tips and tricks, but my eyes lit up when he began explaining how to use makeup to mimic Oprah lighting.  Oprah lighting! Now, let me explain.  When I'm on a shoot or doing a TV segment I always get excited when I see the producers setting up the diva lights.  Lighting is everything and Oprah's studio had the best lighting in the industry.  Everyone looks good in Oprah lighting.  Yes, even Rosie O'Donnell (almost?).

Kaliardos explained that when working with photographers he couldn't always rely on lighting because of shoot locations and often had to mimic Oprah lighting with makeup to ensure the models' or celebrities' skin would look three dimensionally flawless.  His secret?  He builds up the face with different tones of concealor and foundation.  Here's how:

1. Starting with a cleansed face, heavily apply moisturizer with a brush to prep your canvas.

2. Using the same brush, use a creamy concealor that's a shade lighter than your skin tone and sweep it under your eyes (from the inner corners out), around your nostrils, on your chin and on your forehead.  Blend it in and out.  This helps to sculpt and lift up the planes of your face and add dimension.

3. Use two foundations.  One just a half a shade darker and one that matches perfectly.  Using the same brush, take the darker one and just hit your temples and underneath your cheekbones.  Fill in the rest of your face with the other and blend.

 

Backstage Rebecca Taylor: French Chic Meets Punk

Rebecca Taylor’s F/W 2012 collection was made for that cool and mysterious girl walking the streets of Paris. It seems like celeb attendee and it girl Zoe Kravitz, who happens to embody effortless chic, was the exact girl the designer had in mind. Dai Michishica for Cutler Redken Salon was the lead on hair, and he wanted to achieve a punk and edgy look that still appeared natural. He started off with a cornrow behind the ear to secure the hair. Then he added a side fringe covering the right eye, which gave the look a razored effect. He put all the hair behind the shoulders in a raw twist so hair would have a little bounce on the runway. Absolutely no products were used with the exception of Redken #12 Fashion Work hairspray. While this look might be more advanced for some of us, the biggest lesson I took from it (and the hair seen at Kate Spade) is that clip in fringes are an easy way to get anyone out of a hair rut!

Sil Bruinsma for MAC led the makeup team, and he wanted an understated face to complement the tough, downtown style of the collection. The defining feature was the heavier, PJ Harvey inspired eyebrow—or for some of the models, no brows (theirs were bleached)! To highlight each girls’ individuality, stylist Kate Sebbah had each girl wear a unique multiple earring piece. How much do you want to grab one of these pieces for yourself and rock this look now?!