As you may see on my Instagram, tons of new fall makeup has been hitting my desk and making into my makeup bag, but these three pieces of eye makeup are for sure worth highlighting. Thanks to them, my brow, lash and shadow game has been upgraded. Looking to update your makeup bag for fall? Check out my video.
Beauty Secrets of the Rockettes
Can you believe it's almost time to prepare for the holiday season? I'm writing this from sunny California, where it's 80 degrees and I can't even begin to think about snow. Last week however, I found myself in a kick line with the Rockettes at their rehearsal studio in Radio City Music Hall learning the moves to one of their Christmas Spectacular performances thanks to POND'S. Ever wonder what it's like to be a Rockette? How about some of their beauty secrets? I got you covered. Hint: They do their own makeup!
That's right, NYC's Radio City Rockettes do their own makeup for every performance. I found that shocking, especially since their iconic red lips are always perfectly painted and smudge-proof, which is not an easy task for a performer. Post performance, they remove their stage makeup with POND'S – specifically the Cold Cream Cleanser and Original Fresh Wet Cleansing Towelettes, because they remove makeup easily and moisturize at the same time leaving their skin soft and pampered.
Besides having great skin, Rockettes are known for having amazing legs! I spoke with Rockette, Sierra Ring to find out the secrets behind their gams. Our interview went something like this:
Oliptical or Stairmaster
Wax or Shave
Lotion or Oil
Stockings or Bare Legs
Heels or Flats
Self tan or Sun tan
Shorts or Short Shorts
Red Pedi or Nude Pedi
Fun facts huh? Want to see the Rockettes at Radio City this year? Enter the POND'S + Rockettes NYC Holiday Getaway Sweepstakes for your chance to win tickets and join our Twitter chat on Monday, November 3rd using #PONDSperforms. I'll leave you with this adorable video that'll make you want to start your own kick line.
*This post is sponsored by POND'S, but all of my thoughts and actions are true.
5 Benefits of Beauty Oil
We here at BeautySweetSpot cannot live without our favorite beauty oils (hello, Rodin Olio Lusso). They provide us with so many health and beauty benefits, but the best part is that just one small drop can get the job done, and the job done well. Here are just five reasons you need to keep oil in your vanity in order to survive the dry winter months.
1. Lock in Moisture
Not only does beauty oil provide you with super soft skin, but they actually lock moisture in to provide longer all-day nourishment. You can mix it into your moisturizer or apply it as is after a warm shower and you’re skin will seriously thank you this winter.
2. Prep Your Lips
Oil is a key ingredient in a lot of DIY beauty recipes. Mix a little brown sugar in some olive oil and use it as an exfoliating lip balm. You’re lips will benefit from the exfoliating and moisturizing aspects of this recipe and it's great to do as prep before putting on your lipstick.
3. Remove Makeup
Run out of eye makeup remover? Oil can break down your eye makeup while remaining gentle enough to keep from irritating your eyes.
4. Prevent Ingrowns
Using beauty oil before shaving preps the skin for a clean, smooth shave while moisturizing. This will leave your skin post-shave feeling sleek and refreshed.
5. Strengthen and Condition Your Hair
Beauty oils aren’t just for your skin. They can also seriously strengthen and condition your hair. Just apply a small drop to your palms and rub them through the ends of your hair. Once you apply, the hair absorbs it all in so there’s no need to continue packing it on.
Of course, we understand that you might be hesitant about applying oil directly to your face or in your hair as it sounds like it would do more damage then good. But trust us on this one, we wouldn't steer you wrong. Check out this post for some oil suggestions.
7 Q-tip Beauty Hacks
The Q-tip is actually a surprisingly overlooked essential when it comes to your beauty regimen. There are so many little hacks involving Q-tips from perfume touch ups throughout the day, to perfectly smudging out eyeliner, to cleaning up makeup mistakes. We have seven creative, life-changing ways to use a Q-tip in your beauty routine. After this, you'll never want to be without a Q-Tip in your beauty bag.
1. Prevent bleeding lipstick: A bold lip can be completely ruined by bleeding over the lip line. While typically a lip liner can prevent this, liner isn’t for everyone. A more subtle way to create a barrier is to dip a Q-tip in translucent powder and run it along the outside of your lips.
2. Clean up manis: If you just dip a Q-tip into some nail polish remover, rub it along the outside of your nail to clean up any excess polish. A god technique to keep lines clean and polish from spreading along the skin is to turn the Q-tip inward.
3. Smudge out a smoky eye: If you’re a little unsure on how to create a gorgeous smoky eye, Q-tips can actually make it a lot easier. After placing the primer, take the color you want to smoke out with onto the Q-tip and smudge out. The cotton texture makes for a great smoky effect.
4. Touch up Perfume: It’s such a shame when your favorite fragrance doesn’t last necessarily as long throughout the day as you’d like. You can touch up the scent without luging around the entire perfume bottle now. Just spray your perfume on the Q-tips’ end and seal them in a Ziplock bag. When you feel you need a touch up, just rub them along your wrists and behind your ears.
5. Clean up eye makeup mistakes: It’s one of the most upsetting feelings when you see those black mascara or eyeliner smudges on your perfectly blended eye shadow. You don’t want to start over, but you need to rid of these black spots. A Q-tip allows for a more focused, precise removal with just a dab of water or concealer.
6. Plump up eyelashes: If your mascara isn’t giving you the fullness on each lash you desire, after applying the first layer of mascara, take a bit of baby powder on a Q-tip and rub along the underside of your lashes before applying the second layer. It will thicken each lash for more volumized eyelashes.
7. Place highlighter: Highlighting underneath your brow takes precision to emphasize a gorgeous arch. Sometimes your fingers just can’t get the arch your craving. A Q-tip will allow you to push up under the brow for a precise highlight and thus gorgeous arch to your brow.
That Moment, Just Married
After exchanging "I Do's" Joe and I took pictures in Washington Square Park, where a saxophonist began playing Stevie Wonder's "Isn't She Lovely" as we walked past. It couldn't have felt more right. We began dancing and as the busy hustle and bustle of NYC was happening all around us, we stood still in the energy... for that moment. Just married.
Final Look Before the I Do's
The rain stopped and the sun came out. My friends and family claim I was the chillest bride they've ever met, but I still don't see what there would've been to stress over with such a talented glam squad and the truest friends and family around (don't get me started on my dress). Guess who was ready to get married?
Wedding Day Makeup
I guess you can say I'm lucky, because my brows never looked better. It took a year, but thanks to my wedding day makeup artist, Maribeth Madron, they went through an extreme makeover just in time. Seeking a hybrid of a natural yet glamourous look, we kept the focus on my eyes and skin very clean with minimal makeup. With a little help from friends like Tom Ford and Laura Mercier, Maribeth made me look like the best version of myself. She's truly an artist.
Maribeth is an extraordinary makeup artist, especially for wedding makeup, who really pays attention to detail – no short cuts here. I've been seeing her at the Sally Hershberger Uptown Salon for about a year and a half now as she's the only one I ever let touch my brows. Remember, pics of my final look will be shown at the end of the week! What about my bridesmaids you ask? They started their morning at Rouge, a makeup salon, similar to a blowout bar, in Soho. And yes, you'll see their final looks a the end of the week, too.
My Wedding Day Hair Inspiration
It's wedding week on BeautySweetSpot! I told you about my wedding day glam squad before I got married (today marks four months!), but now, I'm excited to show you the behind the scenes of the beauty prep and inspiration.
Up and off the neck was the direction I gave my bridesmaids for their hairstyle on my wedding day. Inspired by a ballet, they chose their own style Amsale chiffon and lace dresses. Since their necklines were all different, it only made sense to show them off as they walked down the aisle and stood by my side. My hairstylist, Liam Carey, assisted by Jan Marie Arteca, crafted all of their updos as well as doing my hair for the biggest day of my life. With the help of extensions, I ended up with the Angelina Jolie inspired look I envisioned. Enjoy the photos. Oh yea, my final look will be shown at the end of the week!
Liam Carey and Jan Marie Arteca can be found at the Jeff Chastain Parlor in NYC. How did I choose my stylist you ask? Great question. I go to both Liam and Jan regularly for my cut and color and did my first and only hair trial with Liam. Because I was comfortable with them and knew their level of talent, it was only fitting for wedding hair. My trial was perfect and having friends there on my big day was a lot of fun for all of us. Their positive energy added to the environment and all of my bridesmaids were happy with their hair.
Solution: TruAge Skin AGE Therapy Gel
One of the best pieces of advice I could give you about aging is that it's better to prevent it than to correct it so always be smart about your lifestyle decisions as they all affect your skin. There are so many ways in which our skin ages and with every beauty event I go to, I learn more and more about it. Did you hear about glycation (sugar!) yet? Well, let me fill you in.
Glycation (or advanced glycation end-products, AGEs) occurs when excess sugars in the body bind with proteins in the skin, causing stiffness and inelasticity, which causes the skin to age. The solution? Products that reverse the aging affect when sugars enter the body.
One product I found that tackles this issue is the new TruAge Skin AGE Therapy Gel. It helps reverse the external effects of damage caused by these advanced glycation end-products. Containing natural ingredients like noni, Cornelian cherry, olive leaf, blueberry and cranberry extracts, and is super light and moisturizing. With daily use, with or without moisturizers, it will improve your skin's appearance.
TruAge Skin AGE Therapy Gel is available for $42 at Morinda.com.
*This is a sponsored post by TruAGE, but all of my thoughts and actions are true.
Help Him Get Fuller Looking Hair
Ladies, one of the touchiest subjects when it comes to men's grooming is balding. Yes, receding hairlines and thinning... the whole nine yards. Is your man starting to go down that path? Well, I talked to a derm, Dr. Ilyse Lefkowicz and stylist to the stars, Sunnie Brook to find out how you can help him out. And I know you're wondering, but my man is blessed with hair I could only dream of having! Read the scoop in my latest AskMen article. You're welcome.
Get the Look: Jessica Alba's Cat Eye
This weekend Jessica Alba was spotted at the Global Citizen Festival in Central Park looking fierce with a flair – a Lauren Conrad-esque cat eye. Her makeup artist, Quinn Murphy, gave me the breakdown on the exact makeup she used to get the look.
“To complement Jessica's black dress, I focused her look around black eyeliner while keeping the rest of the makeup bronze and warm. It was 80 degrees in Central Park so a sun-kissed coral look was unseasonably appropriate," commented Murphy.
To the center of her eyelids, Murphy applied NARS Multiple in Vientaine and blended it up and outward before lining Jessica's top lash line with Estee Lauder Black Gel Eyeliner. She made the line thicker on the outer edges and gave it a flick for a cat eye effect. To finish, she applied Armani Eyes to Kill Black Mascara on the top and bottom lashes.
Makeover Series with SheKnows: The Consultation
Over the summer I was in LA filming a bunch of projects and when SheKnows approached me about helping out with a makeover, I of course, jumped on board. Working with Candace Cameron Bure and makeup artist, Allison Pynn, we helped Jessica get out of a rut. Here's my makeover consultation video with the budding fashionista.
First Look: Pamella Roland's Hair & Makeup Test
Pamella Roland held her Spring 2015 fashion show today, but instead of attending backstage to get the beauty scoop, I had the opportunity to get a sneak peak at the creative process at the hair and makeup test held at her showroom last Wednesday. Picture being at a beauty brainstorm with Ms. Roland herself and two of the industry's best – lead makeup artist, Matin Maulawizada and lead hair stylist, Ted Gibson – only the brainstorm was creatively happening on a model surrounded by Japanese inspired pieces that were about to float down the runway.
After looking at the collection and speaking with Pamella Roland about her vision for the show, Ted and Matin started creating the visual – the look all of the models would wear as they walked down the aisle.
As they began, I asked them what first came to mind when thinking of Pamella Roland's collections...
"Chic. Sophisticated. Wearable and attainable," - Ted Gibson
"Practical. Fashion concious. Classic. Not too crazy or too safe. Walks a line. Chic. Desirable. Beautiful," - Matin Maulawizada
With those thoughts in mind, Matin focused on the eyes and cheeks by creating a monochromatic look by applying Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Colour in Cocoa at the lash line and blending it up, then using Laura Mercier Baked Eye Colour in Hot Chocolate, a brown baked eyeshadow with hints of red in it on top of the lids and in the outer corner. On the cheeks, Laura Mercier Bonne Mine Stick Face Colour in Bronze Glow helped to created the exaggerated color with a dusting of Laura Mercier Crème Cheek Colour in Rosebud on top. It was blended together so it would stand out in the lights of the runway. The brows were softly defined, yet underdone and completed with a rosy lip.
Knowing he was going to be working with a corded headband that matched the clothes, Ted began working the hair into an updo and then decided to take it down. Playing with texture and shape, he ended up adding interest in the 'do by waving the bottom and keeping the top slick and wet looking. He spritzed L'Oreal Professionnel Fresh Dust Dry Shampoo in the waves and used the Infinity Pro by Conair 3Q blow drier to help distribute to make the texture even softer. "She wants it undone, but still pulled together," he explained about the direction of the look. In the end, he ended up cutting the headbands and placing the blush color on a barrette to secure the hair back.
Insta-Glam: Models to Follow During NYFW
New York Fashion Week is literally the most important time of the year. I don't care what anyone says, there is nothing more incredible then watching the Internet practically break, because of all of the footage surfacing from the most elite runway shows around the world. We've rounded up the 8 hottest models who's instagram handles you should follow for insider access that will have you feeling like you're in the big tent sitting next to Anna Wintour herself throughout all of NYFW.
Karlie Kloss, Instagram: @karliekloss
A definite fan fav, Karlie is known for her awesome personality and wacky photos. Follow her as she undoubtedly kills it on the runways for some of the biggest designers in the world.
Cocoa Rocha, Instagram: @CocoRocha
Coco's lustworthy Insta is riddled with photos designed to incite the most serious case of Wanderlust by showing the beauty in her surroundings (even if her surroundings are next to a camel or something equally as ridiculous). Her insider photos of NYFW are guaranteed to be visually stunning, like peeking behind the scenes of a Vogue cover shoot.
Cara Delevigne, Instagram: @caradelevigne
A mix between high fashion shots and personal insider photos, Cara will definitely be reporting on NYFW with a high-brow twist...and of course, a side of bacon.
Joan Smalls, Instagram: @joansmalls
Joan Smalls is sure to slay this year at NYFW. Her incredible cheekbones make her Instagram totally gorg, follow her for high fashion shots with a pinch of her offbeat humor sprinkled in.
Miranda Kerr, Instagram @mirandakerr
This VS Angel is looking to break the mold by joining the ranks of the NYFW runways. Keep an eye out for her infectious smile and unmistakable behind-the-scenes selfie guaranteed to have you feeling like you're part of the action.
Jourdan Dunn, Instagram @officialJDunn
Known for being best pals with fellow runway queen Cara Delevigne, these two often cameo on each other's Insta's while party-hopping. Keep an eye out for her taking the runway by storm with the occasional shot of her adorable son mixed in!
Gigi Hadid, Instagram @GigiHadid
The daughter of Real Housewife of Beverly Hills star Yolanda, this up-and-comer is sure to appear a few times at NYFW. Having walked last season, Gigi is sure to stun with her striking features and high-fashion Insta shots.
Georgia May Jagger, Instagram @GeorgiaMayJagger
No stranger to the catwalk, Georgia walked the London Olympics runway without breaking a sweat. She's sure to make an appearance this season but only her Insta will give us the insider shots we really want...along with the occasional adorable animal cameo of course!
5 Favorite Beauty Buys
This summer has been all about easy and effortless beauty, and I've been loving products that simplify my routine without sacrifice. From the launch of the first BB/CC cream brush (yes, you read that right) for creating a flawless face to a new Chloe scent to accompany late summer nights, these five favorite beauty buys will transition easily from season to season.
LUSH Charity Pot, $22.95 at Lush
It’s no secret that Lush cares about both the environment and their customers. 100% of the proceeds from the sales of Charity Pot, an incredibly luxurious hand and body lotion goes to support grassroots organizations that matter in the world (like environmental conservation, animal welfare, and human rights). The lotion itself is made with Fair Trade organic cocoa butter that leaves hands feeling incredible. I kid you not, no lotion moisturizes or absorbs into the skin so quickly without leaving behind a greasy residue. Insider tip: Collect and return five Lush products pots at a store for a free goody!
MUA BB or CC Cream Brush, $18 at CVS
Have you ever used a brush for your BB or CC cream? If not, you need to ASAP. This brush soaks up any extra product so you don’t cake on a little too much during the hot summer months. The brush head is domed perfectly so it blends cream flawlessly into the skin for super light coverage without leaving brush hairs behind.
See by Chloe, $78 for 1.7 oz at Nordstrom
This perfume completely embodies the New York woman in a single whiff. Notes of vanilla and musk combined with floral jasmine create an urban-chic scent that captures the strong personality that rules the concrete jungle. The luxe bottle is made of faceted glass, perfect for every Chloe woman.
Pantene Dry Shampoo, $4.99 at Target
Nothing saves a blowout during the heat and humidity of summer quite like dry shampoo. If you’re like me (and can’t blow out your own hair to save your life) then getting that salon perfect look to last for days is a must. This dry shampoo from Pantene works wonders on strands, soaking up oils without leaving your hair feeling crunchy or dirty or like you really should just bite the bullet and wash your hair already. Bonus, it also smells fantastic and doesn’t leave any white residue behind.
L’OReal TXT It Tousle Waves Spray, $4.99 at Ulta
Another day, another great sea-salt spray. This one definitely comes in at one of the lowest price points and is readily available at your local Ulta. Spray on damp hair for a perfectly tousled look without a crunchy residue left behind, and it also works double-time as a great detangler for curly locks.
Everything You Need to Know About Hair Extensions
As you saw at the Emmys (did you even recognize Breaking Bad's Anna Gunn let's just say she went a little over board), hair extensions can do wonders. For me, they add fullness to my hair, which is essential for on camera work. When I wrote about Kelly Ripa's extensions, you all went nuts, because those were done right! Well, now, NYC's master extension artist (my girl), JanMarie Arteca, gave me the scoop on everything you need to know about bonded hair extensions. You know, in case you're interested in making a commitment.
The Bond...
Great Lengths uses a Keratin bond that is molded to the hair strand. Keratin is a protein that your hair naturally has so that is doesn't cause damage or irritation when applied. The machines used to apply the extensions can be adjusted so there is no heat damage done to the hair either. There should be just enough heat applied to make the keratin bond pliable to the hair.
The Damage or Lack There Of...
When attached properly there will be no damage to your hair. I find that any damaged caused by extensions usually happens in the application stage (not being done properly) or in the maintenance and removal stage.
Bonded extensions can be damaging if they are not maintained properly. The recommended time on these extensions is usually 3-4months. Some clients will keep them in longer than that. The risk in doing so is matting of the hair (think dreadlocks), which can cause problems in the removal of the extension sometime involving hair loss or breakage. Brushing the extensions with a boar and nylon bristle brush will help prevent that. Sleeping with your hair in a loose bun or braid will also help prevent matting.
The Extension Artist...
If you are interested in extensions do some research. Find a salon that is certified in the extensions that you want to have. Go for a consultation, feel the hair, see the machine and get to know your extension artist. Most stylist also have a portfolio of their work, ask to see it! Make sure you like what you see. Lastly, ask for referrals. It's the best way to find someone to do your hair.
The Protection Factor...
Some clients have fine, brittle hair (think hair that just snaps at the touch) or work in fields where their hair is constantly being worked on with heat tools (models/actresses/fashion) applying extensions can help protect your hair from over exposure to heat tools that can cause damage to the hair. When applied they can actually protect your natural hair from being over processed since all the styling work is being done on extension hair leading to less damaged hair.
The Use...
Think outside of the box with extensions. They don't have to be used for just achieving Kim Kardashianesqe volumes of hair. A few bonds can help to enhance a bob or can be used to fill-in a fine hairline. Pastel color is also a major hair trend right now, if you aren't sure you want to commit to the color change ask your stylist about applying a few lilac strands to your look. Having fun with color without the risk of damaging or staining your hair with certain products. Men are also getting into extensions (Steven Tyler) adding a few strand to thinning hair can make all the difference guys!
Jan-Marie Arteca works at the Jeff Chastain Parlor in NYC. Email her at janmarteca@gmail.com to schedule an extension consultation.
How to Wear A High Ponytail
What do A-listers like Iggy Azelia, Katy Perry, J. Lo and Rihanna have in common? They've all been spotted rocking a fashion forward high ponytail this summer like it's no one's business. The edgy look is a perfect way to keep long hair off of your neck in the summertime. NYC Stylist, Jan-Marie Arteca, gave me tips on how to pull it off.
"This look is perfect for anyone who has long hair and likes wearing it off of their face," explained Arteca. Of course, personally, I could never get away with wearing my hair up that high, but kudos to you if you can. I do love it! "This ponytail is all about smoothness and placement."
Starting with damp hair, use a mousse like Oribe Grandiose Hair Plumping Mousse for added volume and blow dry with a round brush. This type of ponytail can be worn pin straight or curled, but prep is essential in order for it to look done.
If you'd like to keep it straight, lock in shine with a flat iron before pulling it up. Otherwise, use a 1 1/2" curling iron and curl your hair. Finally, pull it up and secure it over the oxibidal bone. In order to hide your elastic, take a piece of hair from underneath and wrap it around securing it with a bobby pin. As a finishing touch, add a light-weight shine serum to the top keep frizz at bay.
Wearing a high pony tail is a fashion statement. Wear it well.
Cooling Beauty Products for Summer
In between my trips to Italy and Aruba I came home to countless packages containing new beauty launches and was excited to find anything labeled "cooling" as Aruba gets brutally hot. Let's just say that half of the product I packed were my daily essentials and the other half was considered "work" – you know, cooling beauty products, the ones I planned on putting to the test in dead heat. (I had to pay because my suitcase was overweight! Tax write off?) Out of all of the ones I brought, two are standouts.
Jergens Soothing Aloe Refreshing Moisturizer
Slathered in SPF 45 daily, of course I've been taking in the sunshine and when it comes time to shower and get ready for the nighttime, this lotion has been a treat. I obsessively moisturize as soon as I get out of the shower and my parched skin soaks in the extra relief from the aloe. Even though I'm not sunburned, I have color and my body is hot. The cooling, soothing essence of the aloe acts like a treatment to my skin.
L'Occitane Ice Gel for Legs & Feet
When I opened this cooling beauty product from L'Occitane I was surprised, because every time I tried something similar it was normally from a sporty company. This one seemed luxe. Each morning here I did sprints before hitting the beach and since I'm not used to running, (a total barre babe), boy was I sore! Especially my calves, so putting this one to the test was also a natural fit. It has a rollerball application, which was great for a minor massage and invigorates my muscles, while cooling and relieving them. I'm kind of obsessed. And I don't see why you can't use it elsewhere.
Burt's Bees Brightening Collection with Daisy Extract
What's your biggest skincare concern? Me? Dark spots and an uneven skintone. I'm so anal about keeping my skin from getting any new dark spots that I even wear a sun hat when I work on my balcony to help shade my skin from the sun. When it comes to getting rid of the unwanted pigment, I've tried it all from potent hydroquinone to laser treatments and you know what? After all of that, I found a natural brightening ingredient that helps reduce the appearance of dark spots and pigmentation – daisy extract – in the Burt's Bees Brightening Collection.
Deemed by the company as "Nature's Retoucher," the Burt's Bees Brightening Collection* is clinically proven to visibly brighten skin in just four weeks. Burt's Bees collects wild, white daisies from the mountains of Macedonia, because their extract is proven to be a natural skin brightening agent. Combined with a Multi-Fruit Complex, the formula offers a more even looking skin tone.
*The Burt's Bees Brightening Collection includes a Daily Cleanser, Brightening Eye Treatment, Dark Spot Corrector, Refining Tonic and Even-Tone Moisturizing Cream.
The Dark Spot Corrector is super impressive, because after eight weeks of use, 100% of test subjects in clinical studies showed brighter skin and 80% of women showed diminished dark spots. I use the collection as a whole regimen, but this is the product that I apply on specific spots to help fade them over time.Check out Burt's Bees on Facebook and Twitter to learn more and for coupons.
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Burt's Bees via Burst Media. The opinions and text are all mine.