Sue Devitt Microquatic Hydrating Marine Minerals Collection

Blue Waters

Silky. Moisturizing. Beautiful. What more can a girl ask for in her eyeshadow?!? I am absolutely smitten with the Sue Devitt Microquatic Hydrating Marine Minerals Destination Eye Palette, I simply can not get enough of them! The eyeshadows in each palette all work together so you can create beautiful smokey eyes in tones of purple (Kilimanjaro), blue (Blue Waters), green (Green Isles), copper (Serengeti), and coral (Solomon Islands).  

This Spring/Summer makeup trend is all about a splash of color which many women fear will be "too much". Have no fear, these palettes offer that with shades that are universally flattering, blendable, crease-resistant, and long-lasting (last all day WITHOUT a primer)! The richness of the colors makes my eyes pop and one can never go wrong with a hint of shimmer...especially during the summer months up against bronzed skin - HAUTE.

I currently own 3 out of the 5 palettes and in the lead is Blue Waters! My favorite way to wear this palette is with the lightest color highlighting my brow, the middle color applied wet on my lower lid for an added POP of color, and a mix of the darker two shades either in my crease or smudged along my lashline with black liner for a sexy smoky eye. I encourage you to get excited and follow my lead Divas!!

Smooches & Microquatic Quick Claps

I like my money right where I can see it... hanging in my closet. -Carrie Bradshaw

TREND ALERT: Orange-Red Lipstick

Makeup Forever Lipstick Orange Red (205), $19; Makeup Forever Glossy Couleur Tangerine (2), $ 19

Trying to break out of the "red-lip box"? I hope so because nothing is hotter right now than a splash of orange lipstick on your puckers! Any shade of orange is haute: tangerine, orange sherbet, red-orange, gold-orange, coral, peach, pastel, mango, or cinnamon orange. To compliment your lips make sure skin is bronzed and warm with neutral eyes and LOTS of mascara - get excited Divas!

Orange-red lips popped on the runway during New York Fashion Week on models of all ethnicities. Question yourself no further; this trend is for you, you, and you! If you are blonde I would opt for the orange tangerine, brunette go for the orange sherbet, dark skin and dark hair aim for the red-orange. The key to making this work is to find the correct shade and coverage that you are comfortable with; sheer and sporty (lip gloss), opaque and polished (crème lipstick), or severe and edgier (matte lipstick). However you choose to rock this juicy trend, it must be worn with confidence! 

 

Image courtesy of Getty Images

 

 The best way to test drive a new lip color is to start with either a gloss or a swipe of lipstick applied to the center of the lip and blended outward with a finger. This type of application creates a healthy and real look, your own lips just a bit more vibrant; I would suggest topping with a tangerine gloss.

Whether opaque and polished or sever and edgy, one item can not be skipped - lip liner! I know ladies, we have become so anti-lip liner over the past few years but at least a nude colored liner will prevent the dreaded "bleeding lipstick". *ewwww* Remember the order of proper application for all red-based lipsticks: foundation, dust with powder, lip liner, lipstick, blot, and reapply second layer of lipstick. This ensures seamless application and that your color lasts past your morning coffee. 

Smooches & Perfectly Painted Pout Quick Claps

I like my money right where I can see it... hanging in my closet. -Carrie Bradshaw

Primer Potion

Have you Divas discovered the benefits of eye primer? Anyone? Feel free to speak up......

Eye primer provides smoother, longer-lasting, and absolutely crease-proof eyeshadow - period. It creates the BEST canvas to create a flawless eye!

Eyeshadow Primer Potions from Urban Decay fulfills three wishes listed above like magic! Apply Primer Potion to lids before shadow application and it dries down almost instantly, creating smooth lids that are super-powered eyeshadow magnets.

Available at Sephora, check http://www.sephora.com/help/stores/index.jhtml for store locations.

Smooches & Primer Quick Claps

I like my money right where I can see it... hanging in my closet. -Carrie Bradshaw

Hollywood Glamour Anyone?

Estee Lauder Michael Kors Very Hollywood Color Collection

The Michael Kors runway show has always been one of our favorites for beauty because the makeup is always pretty--and something we'd actually wear. So I was psyched to find out that the designer has teamed up with Estée Lauder for its spring makeup line.

The Estée Lauder Michael Kors Very Hollywood Color Collection features two looks based on the same philosophy Kors has for his runway beauty: classic with pops of color.

"Bel Air Beige" is warm, with shimmery peaches for cheeks and lips, beige and chocolate for the eyes, and an opaque beige nail polish. "Rodeo Pink" (shown above) focuses on that color, at least for lips, cheeks, and nails; the black-and-white shadow duo works for sultry smoky eyes. There's also a loose shimmer powder in pearly pink for the signature Kors glow.

The products are on counters in January 2010, so look for them then!

Smooches & Quick Claps

Not one drop of my self-respect is dependent on your acceptance of me. - Quincy Jones

2009 Holiday Gift Giving Guide

My mission this year was to provide my fellow Recessionistas with affordable but fabulous Holiday gift ideas.....but I had NO idea that I would find such super fabulous stuff!!!!

Sonia Kashuk reinvented the budget brush market and made drugstore brushes cool! This Holiday Season she is taking that budget luxe philosophy a step further by

introducing a line with twisted faux-silver handles that won't break the bank.

The six-piece limited edition Twist of Fate Brush Set ($20, on sale now at Target), Sonia's premium collection of brushes for the Holidays, joins five limited edition Holiday makeup palettes and accessories.

Smooches & Brush Set Quick Claps

Not one drop of my self-respect is dependent on your acceptance of me. - Quincy Jones

Pink Pearly Glow

I remember being a young girl, secretly playing in my Mother's makeup kit and coming across her Gurelain Terracotta Bronzer, mesmerized by the multitude of colors in one compact! (that probably was the moment I became a product junkie and my desire to become a Makeup Artist was born!)

Since my 20's I have always used Gurelain's bronzer....and am UBER excited about the Limited-Edition meteorites Powder for the Face! (only available online at Sephora) The Meteorites are mauve, white, pink, and gold pearls used to brighten and even skintone. Simply run a large powder brush over the pearls and lightly dust over your face.

Not only is the product amazing but so is the packaging; I love, LOVE, LOVE the chic black case embossed with rhinestones!

Smooches & Illuminating Quick Claps

PS - you were right Mom, I use to play in your makeup while you were at work.....SORRY! *muah*

Not one drop of my self-respect is dependent on your acceptance of me. - Quincy Jones

Fall Makeup Under $15

With every season change comes an opportunity to not only update your wardrobe but to also spice up your makeup kit! Here is my 1st recession friendly recommendation for all you Recessionistas: Avon True Color Eyeshadow Quad in Textured Teal, $8

Add dimension to your eyes with a shimmery, smoky shadow. this quad is ideal for blending together and layering to create Fall's PERFECT smoky eye!

Smooches & Textured Teal Quick Claps

Not one drop of my self-respect is dependent on your acceptance of me. - Quincy Jones

Botanical Lipstick

What it is:
A sheer, creamy lipstick formulated with natural and organic ingredients.

What it does:
CARGO PlantLove™ Lipstick provides sheer color that is completely natural and contains a high-organic content. The innovative formula is infused with rich added-care ingredients and is housed in eco-certified packaging. Smooth and silky, it conditions and colors your pout to pucker perfection.

This product is formulated WITHOUT:- Parabens- Synthetic Fragrance- Synthetic Dye- Petro-Chemicals- Phthalates

What else you need to know:
CARGO is donating two dollars from the sale of every shade to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. (yaaaayyy)

Smooches & Botanical Quick Claps

Not one drop of my self-respect is dependent on your acceptance of me. - Quincy Jones

Smudge Pots....I Want YOU!

Ohh Emm Gee!!! Aren't these colors above deliciously wonderful?!?!?

Their latest innovation in eye liner is waterproof and crease-resistant for all-day definition....which you know is key, eyeliner is the first thing to fade on your face!

This amazing gel-based eye liner glides on easily and is totally waterproof and crease -resistant - giving you the power to create stay-put eyes like never before. It's perfect for lining the inner rim of the eye or as a won't-budge traditional liner.

http://www.sephora.com/

Smooches & Smudge Pot Quick Claps

Not one drop of my self-respect is dependent on your acceptance of me. - Quincy Jones

Bold Lips for Fall

In an effort to keep the "stepping outside of my comfort zone" thing going (FRESH start people, FRESH START), I have decided that my goal for this month is to start painting my lips up in in-your-face lipstick. Not lipgloss—full-on, pin-up-girl bright, rich and daring color. Are you with me?

Now, the idea of going to the grocery store in bright hot pink lips makes me want to hide behind a box of Wheaties but that's the point: to break out of my old habits and try something I wouldn't do usually.

Maybe I'll even get comfortable enough to wear red lipstick naked while I sip coffee like this chick above! LOL

Now, if you're up to the challenge, here's the plan: If you're not a bold lipstick-wearer already, this month, just start experimenting with bold lipstick like it's your job. But if you already have a few crazy shades in your bag, play with a few new colors or try wearing the ones you have out in places you wouldn't normally. Then let me know how it goes. And send pictures to passionforpretty@gmail.com.

Any of you on board? Got any advice for a beginner-bold-lipstick wearer? Spill it.

Smooches & BOLD Lipstick Quick Claps

Source: Glamour

Not one drop of my self-respect is dependent on your acceptance of me. - Quincy Jones

Givenchy Phenomen's Eyes Effet Extension

This is the most interesting mascara concept I have seen yet.....this even tops the vibrating wand!!!!

I am all for new beauty products and techniques but I am not sold on this "spherical brush".

Here's the info:


What it is?
A mascara with a spherical brush and a new-generation formula that coats each lash and dries quickly for an immediate lengthening effect.

What it does.
The secret of this mascara's high-definition lengthening power lies in its extending and fixing: It strikes the perfect balance between the formula's elasticity and drying time. The result is bat-worthy lashes with a panoramic effect.


Has anyone tried this? I need feedback.....leaves comments please, they excite me!

Smooches & Spherical Brush Quick Claps

Not one drop of my self-respect is dependent on your acceptance of me. - Quincy Jones

Crazy Haute!

MAC’s latest collection for summer, Color Craft. I absolutely love love love the makeup in the ad campaign, super fabulous!

As usual, love the Lipglass, three shades swirled together to create a one-of-a-kind marble finish- YUMMY!

The MAC Colour Craft collection will be available starting Thursday, July 9....which is TODAY!

1. Colour Crafted (milky pink)

2. Crazy Haute (blue pink)

3. Made With Love (bright coral)

4. Odd Bits (silver-grey, golden dusty rose, dark burgundy, peachy bronze)

5. Nice Mix Up (burnt ginger)

6. Assemblage (white with silver, deep grey, black with silver glitter, yellow-gold)

7. Funky Fusion (pinky coral)

Smooches & Colour Craft Quick Claps

Not one drop of my self-respect is dependent on your acceptance of me. - Quincy Jones

Luxe Lip Gloss

Add some sizzle to your summer with Stila’s 24kt gloss! Infused with genuine 24kt gold, this non-sticky formula gives you a vibrant, glistening, gorgeous grin!

The smooth texture is loaded with moisture-locking ingredients including Vitamin E to nourish and condition and Vitamins A & C to provide anti-oxidant protection and keep the lips hydrated. The 24kt gold powder nourishes and protects the lips, and gives you a beautiful golden shimmer. Adorned with a genuine handmade Indian bindi, this glimmering gloss can be worn alone for a natural shine or over your favorite lipstick for a dazzling effect.

I'm no longer enthralled by the prospect of adorning my lips in 24K gold--been there, done that courtesy of Avon's Ultra Color Rich 24K Gold Lipsticks but the fun packaging, shimmery shades -- I most definitely approve!

http://www.stilacosmetics.com/

Smooches & 24K Quick Claps



Not one drop of my self-respect is dependent on your acceptance of me. - Quincy Jones

Style Icon of the Week - Kerry Washington

The epitome of beauty and grace.....Kerry Washington never disappoints! Here she is at the "Face" premiere at the Palais De Festivals during the 62ND Annual Cannes Film Festival looking deliciously tasty in this fabulous black and white, lace, one-shoulder Oscar de la Renta gown. Can you say STUNNING!

Everything from her bouffant hair, flawless make-up, pearl drop earrings and black and rhinestone clutch is pure perfection! I am SO glad that she traded in her signature nude lips for a pop of color up against the basic black and white palette of the dress.

Kerry, if you are out there reading Passion For Pretty.....I LOVE YOUR STYLE GIRL, did anyone ever tell you how gorgeous you are? (I'm single babes, give me a call! lol)

Smooches & Style Icon Quick Claps

Get Hollywood's Bold Brows

My quest for perfect, naturally full, and fabulously shaped brows continues! (I am thinking that by the time we are able to live in space like the Jetsons that there should be a remedy for sparse brows! lol) Until a miracle happens or I can get a brow transplant, I must fill my brows in on a DAILY basis! (see, I tell yall all my secrets up on this blog - that's love)


The problem with most pencils, gels, or powders in the brows is that it does not last through -out the day; especially in 80 degree plus weather! So instead of having to give in and walk around either looking surprised or like Whoopi's twin one can use EI Solutions Brow Last.



Brow Last makes your brow pencil waterproof and smude-proof while keeping brows in place.


EI Solutions Brow Last, http://www.amazon.com/EI-Solutions-Brow-Last/dp/B000I82J94, $22.50.


Smooches & Brow Last Quick Claps

No More Raccoon Eyes

Ever have smudged eye makeup that needs a quick fix after a massage, after a workout at the gym, when you powder your nose, before meeting friends after work, after a good cry (or a really bad one), after a nap, or after a little romance (or a lot)? Then Smudgees are for you!

Smudgees are cotton-tipped wands that are just over two inches long. The custom-shape is pre-moistened with an eye-makeup remover that is alcohol-free and oil-free, mean rinsing is not required and drying is almost instantaneous.(get excited!!)

A box of 20 is only $6.99!

http://www.smudgees.com/

Smooches & Smudge-Free Quick Claps

Blu_Ray Lips

CARGO’s blu_ray Lip Gloss, specially formulated for filming in high-definition has received RAVE reviews. So what makes it so different from the no doubt countless lip glosses in your collection? The blu_ray gloss provides a lot of almost lipstick-like coverage and plumping capabilities. The gloss contains peptides that smooth out the lines in your lips for a fuller look. The color, shine, and fullness that this lip gloss provides will also photograph/film well.

CARGO’s new Timestrip technology is another plus. Most women are generally forgetful and don’t keep track of beauty products as well as they should. With the Timestrip that’s in the blu_ray Lip Gloss, you’ll never find yourself digging out years old, bacteria-infested pieces of makeup ever again. When you begin using the gloss, simply put the Timestrip into the cap. When 9 months are up, the Timestrip turns red and you’ll know when to toss it out.

The packaging is a bit bulkier than I’d like, but for me, that’s not a deal breaker. See for yourself at your nearest Sephora where it retails for $24. You can read more about the blu_ray collection at http://cargobluray.com/.

Smooches & Blu Ray Quick Claps

Dramatic Eyes

I’ve been all about dark, dramatic eye makeup lately, but it’s not the easiest look to pull off, especially when you’re trying to figure out which colors look good together. Luckily, Sephora has come out with two new eye palettes that will take all of the guesswork out of your choices - Smoky Eyes and Glitter Eyes.

Smoky Eyes is exactly what is sounds like - a palette with all the shades in it to create the perfect smoky eye. There are four shadows, a light base shade, a black contour shade, a dark lid shade, and a light highighter shade. The kit also contains a black kohl eyeliner pencil and a small mascara, but what I really like about the palette is that it comes complete with a built in mirror and an instruction booklet with pictures that walk you through every step in the application process. (Perfect for someone who doesn’t find a smoky eye the easiest look to achieve!) It also makes the kit totally portable - you could throw it in your bag in the morning if you’re planning on going out straight from work and use it to create a nighttime look in a hurry. The only other thing you might need is a shadow brush - it comes with a small one, but I’d recommend using an additional, full-sized brush as well for the most professional application).

For an even more show-stopping evening look, I recommend Glitter Eyes. It’s definitely not for a shy girl or someone who likes to blend into the background, but if you want to walk into a party and have all your friends ask who did your makeup, this is the palette for you. It contains two glittery shadows - one light and one dark, a black glitter eye pencil, mascara, and a silver liquid glitter liner for lashes and eye lids. Like the Smoky Eye Palette, it contains an instruction booklet and a mirror, which is especially handy when dealing with glitter, since it tends to get all over the place. It definitely will take a little practice to figure out how best to use this palette without looking like a Vegas showgirl!

The palettes each retail for $38 and can be found at Sephora stores and on http://www.sephora.com.

Catch the Trend Wave

The limited-edition Coastal Colors Collection was inspired by ethereal layers of sky, a sparkling ocean and a silky beach. Get must-have mineral eye colors, plus the season's freshest lip shades and eyeliners. This new collection includes:

Mary Kay® Mineral Eye Color Palette in Coastal Colors, $15

Wooden eyeliner pencils in Bahama Blue and TahitianGold, $10 each

Mary Kay® Lip Gloss in Polynesian Petals, Caribbean Coral, and Hawaiian Sunset, $13 each

Plus, for a limited time, you'll receive a FREE cosmetic bag when you purchase the Mary Kay® Mineral Eye Color Palette, as well as a lip gloss and eyeliner of your choice from the Coastal Colors Collection.

http://www.marykay.com/passionforpretty

Lip Oil

Ramy Beauty Therapy Lip Oil is a unique lip treatment specifically designed to nurture and deep condition your lips. Formulated with calming jojoba and almond oils that moisturize even the roughest lips to create a smooth and ideal smile. The unique formula glides on smooth and slowly penetrates the skin for an all day, super-conditioning lip regimen.

Did I mention that the oil is infused with freeze-dried collagen (yeah, you that read that right) to instantly fill in tiny lines?!?

Perfect to be worn alone or under/over your favorite lip gloss or lipstick, the luscious, sweet tasting Lip Oil works to help plump even the thinnest of lips!

Smooches