Make-Up Is My Hobby

Brittanya Inspired Red and Black Look

2009-07-08T13:21:00.001-07:00

Hey, everyone! So, Brittanya is my girl on this season of Charm School. I admire her style and love her makeup looks! I really hope she wins this season!!! Anyway, I was inspired by one of her pictures and tried to recreate a look of hers. I have included the pic below. I hope you enjoy! Check out the tutorial on Youtube!

Products Used:

EYES:

L'Oreal cream shadow paint

Mac Beige-ing shade stick

Mac Motif e/s

Mac Vex e/s

120 Palette - black e/s

Bella Terra "red hot" loose e/s

FACE:

Mac MSF - Dark

Black Radiance Plum Sorbet blush

LIPS:

Revlon Cherries in the Glow lipgloss

Two Looks Using Mac Freshwater

2009-06-14T08:42:00.000-07:00

Hey, everyone! I know it's been a while since my last post. I have a few pics from two looks I did using Mac's Freshwater eyeshadow and navy eyeshadow from the 120 palette. Hope you enjoy! I uploaded a tutorial on my youtube channel. The first picture is the more drammatic look. The second picture is the lighter look.

"Black Barbie" Look

2009-04-27T22:06:00.001-07:00

Hey, everyone!! I know it's been a while since I posted some new pics, but I'M BACK!! I've had a rough past few weeks with classes and finals and what-not, and I'm FINALLY done - until May!! But I'm glad to be back, and with a great new look! I love wearing purples and pinks together! I call this a "Black Barbie" look, but I think this look would look great on any skin tone. I hope you guys enjoy! The tutorial should be up on Youtube by tomorrow afternoon. Products listed below...

EYES:

L'oreal cream shadow paint (commanding)

Mac Beige-ing shade stick

Mac Beautiful Iris e/s

Mac Shadowy Lady e/s

L'oreal HIP eyeshadow duo - Brazen (hot pink color)

Black liquid eyeliner

L'Oreal Deep Mocha e/s (brows)

L'oreal Double Extend beauty tubes mascara

FACE:

Black Radiance Plum Sorbet Blush

L'Oreal True Match super blendable make-up

Mac Studio Fix powder

LIPS:

Wet N Wild - Crazy lip gloss

Recreating Rihanna's "Posh Pompadour"

2009-04-14T11:08:00.000-07:00

Hey, guys! I've been looking for different styles to try with my new short hair, and I think I've found one that I like! I attempted to recreate a Rihanna look, but I didn't use ANY heat! Not even a hooded dryer! I think the looked turned out looking pretty good, considering I didn't use any heat. Please let me know what you guys think! I uploaded a vid on Youtube so you can see the hair "in motion."

"Disco Ball" Eyeshadow Tutorial

2009-04-10T07:15:00.001-07:00

First off, I have to say, I LOVE this look! I got so many complements on my lashes last night, too! Some guy said that I looked "glamorous!" LOL.People thought I actually got them done somewhere!! I don't even think I do that great a job of applying them, either! Anyway, pics and products listed below. I am in the process of uploading the video on Yotuube as well. ENJOY!!!

LIPS: NYX Natural lip gloss

EYES:

HIP Cream Shadow Paint - Commanding

Manly 120 Palette - all three silver e/s colors

No Name Beauty Supply Store False Lashes

NYX Glitter Mania Silver Glitter

Walgreen's Maximum Eyedrops (for glitter application)

Black liquid Eyeliner

Black soft eyeliner pencil

FINALLY, Another Tutorial!!!

2009-04-09T10:15:00.000-07:00

LOL! I know some of you were wondering where I have been! I have had a bit of a creative block lately. :o( I hope it's over. I saw some beautiful make-up pics on the internet today and decided to try to replicate one of the looks! It's a green, tan, and brown look. I don't have permission to post the pics of the original look. Anyway, hope you enjoy!!! Tutorial will be added on Youtube shortly. Eye products listed below...

HIP Cream Eyeshadow Paint - Commanding

Magic Jumbo Eyeliner Pencil - White M204

Mac Swimming e/s

L'Oreal Deep Mocha e/s

Mac 6 Intriguing Warm Eyes Palette (highlight color and tan color)

Black liquid eyeliner

L'Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes Mascara

Rimmer Glam'Eyes Mascara

NYX white eye/eyebrow pencil

LIPS: Mac Lychee Luxe (GREAT color!)

My New Hair Cut!!

2009-03-20T16:27:00.000-07:00

Hey, guys! I know that this is a make-up blog, but I wanted to share pics of my new haircut. I think I am still in shock that all of my hair is gone!!! :o) I've NEVER EVER had my hair this short, so this will be a learning experience. Overall, I like the cut. I don't think I like the way my stylist styled it, though. She made it kind of spiky and I don't know if that's really my style. I think when I wash it I'm going to curl it and see how that looks. Anyway, enjoy the pics! I am also going to post a video on my youtube page.

Silver, Brown, and Black Eyeshadow Look

2009-03-19T19:34:00.000-07:00

Hey, everyone. Here was my look from yesterday. I REALLY liked how it turned out! I think I will be adding this to my "regular" rotation. I really like the Mac Platinum pigment. I would definitely recommend it! It looks even better when you foil it on (i.e., apply it wet).

Eye Products Used:

L'Oreal Cream Shadow Paint - Commanding

Mac Platinum Pigment

L'Oreal Deep Mocha e/s

Black Radiance Ebony e/s

Mac Vex e/s

Black liquid Eyeliner

Soft Black Eyeliner Pencil

False Lashes

Lips:

NYX Natural lip gloss

A Great St. Patty's Day Look

2009-03-17T11:28:00.000-07:00

Hey, everyone! Happy St. Patrick's Day! Here is a look I did today, so that I would have some green on! I hope you enjoy! I wasn't able to upload a tutorial for this look, because my recording was cut off. :o( So I do apologize. If I ever do this look again in the future I will definitely make a tutorial for it. For now, enjoy the pics!!! Have fun! :o)

Products Used:

EYES:

Mac Platinum Pigment

Mac Humid e/s

Black Radiance Ebony e/s

Black liquid Eyeliner

L'Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes Mascara

Dark brown eye pencil (eyebrows)

LIPS:

NYX Natural

Another Easy Pink Look

2009-03-13T16:23:00.000-07:00

Hey, everyone! Got another look for you today. Hope you enjoy! This is a great look for beginners who are experimenting with color. I have posted eye and lip products, since face products are pretty much the same as always...

Products Used:

EYES:

Mac Vex

Mac Girlie

H.I.P. Eyeshadow duo - Brazen (pink color)

Black liquid eyeliner

L'Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes Mascara

LIPS:

Mac Moonstone

Green with Envy Make-up Look

2009-03-12T09:49:00.000-07:00

Here is my look for today. I wanted to use my new Mac e/s "Swimming." I think the look turned out great! Go ahead - see for yourself! LOL. Tutorial will be uploaded to Youtube soon!

I'm just going to include a list of eye products used, since I pretty much always use the same products everyday....

L'Oreal Cream Shadow Paint - Commanding

Mac Vex e/s

Mac Swimming e/s

Mac Humid e/s

Black Radiance Ebony e/s

Black liquid eyeliner

L'Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes mascara

More Updated Pics of Kim K. Smoky Eye #1...

2009-03-11T15:30:00.000-07:00

Hey, everyone! I recreated the Kim Kardashian Smoky Eye #1 look today! I love it! I used to wear this look ALL of the time, and I don't know WHY I stopped wearing it!! LOL. I also rerecorded a better tutorial and uploaded it on my Youtube page. Anyway, hope you enjoy the pics! I have also included a list of products used. Thanks for reading my blog!! Don't forget to check out my Youtube page! www.youtube.com/themakeupgirl09

Products Used:

FACE:
L'Oreal True Match Super Blendable Makeup
Mac Studio Finish Concealer
Mac Studio Fix powder
Black Radiance Summer Shimmer bronzer
Black Radiance Plum Sorbet blush
L'Oreal Deep Mocha e/s (contouring)

EYES:
L'Oreal Cream Shadow Paint - Commanding
Mac Vex e/s
Black Radiance Ebony e/s
Black liquid eyeliner
Black soft eyeliner pencil
L'Oreal Deep Mocha e/s (brows)
L'Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes mascara

LIPS:
Mac Spite Lipglass

Purple Smoky Eye Look

2009-03-10T19:15:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! Got another purple look for you. Hope you enjoy! Tutorial is being uploaded on Youtube as I type!!!

Products Used:

FACE:

L'Oreal True Match Super Blendable Foundation

Mac Studio Finish Concealer

Mac Studio Fix powder

Black Radiance Summer Shimmer Bronzer

Milani Minerals Sunset Beach Blush

L'Oreal Deep mocha e/s (contouring)

EYES:

L'Oreal Cream Shadow Paint (Commanding)

Mac Quietly pigment

Mac Vex e/s

Mac Shadowy Lady e/s

L'Oreal deep mocha e/s (brows)

Black liquid Mascara

Black soft eyeliner pencil

L'Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes Mascara

LIPS:

Mac Spite Lipglass

Video-Inspired Make-Up Tutorial!!!

2009-03-07T13:22:00.000-08:00

Hey, everyone! So, I recently saw Teairra Marie's video for her new song called "On the Hunt," and I really liked one of her makeup looks in the video, so I decided to try to recreate it!! I think I did pretty good! I don't know how to do stills of a video, so I am just going to post the link to the video. You will know what look I am talking about if you look at my pics before looking at the video! :o) Overall, I think I did a pretty good job! I don't think it turned out looking EXACTLY like her makeup, but it was close enough. I did wear this look out to a bar last night. Got a lot of stares. LOL. With this look, I would recommend wearing your hair up and out of your face, just like Teairra did in the video. Loud and artistic makeup should be showcased, and shouldn't have to complete with your hair or any other gawdy accesories.

Products Used:

FACE:
L'Oreal True Match Super Blendable Makeup
Mac Studio Fix
Mac Studio Finish Concealer
Black Radiance Summer Shimmer Bronzer
Black Radiance Plum Sorbet Blush

EYES:
Manly 120 Palette
L'Oreal H.I.P. Cream Shadow Paint (base)
L'Oreal H.I.P. Black Cream Eyeliner

False lashes from local beauty supply store (no name)

Rimmel Glam'Eyes Mascara

Mac Vex

Black soft eyeliner pencil

LIPS:

Mac Spite Lipglass

The Inspiration: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=opHM6k4RNc0

The Recreation:

Easy Pink Eyeshadow Look

2009-03-05T10:48:00.001-08:00

Hello, everyone! Just wanted to share my face of the day. I really like this look. It really brightens up my face. I think pink colors happen to leak great on a darker skin tone. They probably look great on lighter skin tones as well, but I can only speak for myself! LOL. I also stepped out of my comfort zone today, and didn't wear ANY eyeliner!! I usually wear eyeliner everyday, so this is different for me. I am also LOVING the lipgloss that I used in this look!! I just bought it at the store last night based on a recommendation from a fellow LHCF-er. I'm SO glad I bought this! I would DEFINITELY recommend it! Anyway, hope you enjoy! The tutorial is uloading on my Youtube page as we speak!

Products Used:

FACE:
Mac Studio Fix Powder
L'Oreal True Match Super-Blendable Make-up liquid foundation
Mac Studio Finish concealer
Black Radiance Summer Shimmer Bronzer
Black Radiance Plum Sorbet Blush
L'Oreal Deep Mocha e/s (contouring)

EYES:
Mac Expensive Pink
Mac Vex
Manly 120 Palette (hot pink color)
L'Oreal Deep Mocha e/s (eyebrows)
L'Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes Mascara

LIPS:
Revlon Cherries in the Glow lipgloss

Applying My "Face"

2009-03-05T07:13:00.001-08:00

Hey, everyone! I finally uploaded a tutorial on how I apply my foundation on my Youtube page, so check it out!! :o) I have attached a before and after pic. The first pic is before applying any coverage. The second pic is with foundation, concealer, powder, and eyeshadow primer. I want you to keep in mind that I don't apply foundation or makeup to look like a completely different person without makeup.

More Kim K. Smoky Eye #2 Pics!!!

2009-03-04T19:16:00.000-08:00

So, I didn't like how the pics turned out in my last post with the Kim Kardashian smoky eye, so, I chose to take some more pictures of the look! I recreated the look today, just because I wanted to. LOL. I did add some false lashes today, which I really think make the look even better! Hope you enjoy the pics! I uploaded a video of the finished look on my Youtube page as well.

Another Kim K. Inspired Look!

2009-03-01T18:21:00.000-08:00

In case you can't tell, Kim Kardashian is one of my fashion and make-up icons. I LOVE how her make-up always looks flawless and sexy! It definitely accentuates her great features. SO, in "honor" of her, LOL, I decided to recreate a look of hers. Keep in mind that this is JUST an eyeshadow look. I did NOT do a full face of make-up (i.e., foundation, blush, bronzer, etc.). This is also MY intepretation of her look. I'm pretty sure different techniques and products were probably used... And my liner on my lower lid didn't come out as dark as hers... :o( I added her pic below for reference... I know you can't really see her eyeshadow because of her bangs, so I improved a bit! LOL. I uploaded a tutorial for this look on youtube. You should check it out!

Overall, I really liked the look that I did. I will probably do it again, but I would definitely tweak it a bit. I would be more dramatic and go heavier on the liner on the lower lid. I would also do a lighter lip with this eye. Hope you enjoy!

The Inspiration...

The Recreation...

Please see next post for recreation pics. I chose to delete these because they did not properly show the makeup.

Products Used:

FACE:

Mac Studio Fix powder

Mac Studio Finish concealer

L'Oreal True Match Super-Blendable Makeup foundation

Black Radiance Summer Shimmer Bronzer

Black Radiance Plum Sorbet Blush

EYES:

L'Oreal Cream Shadow Paint - Commanding

Mac Intriguing 6 Warm Eyes palette (highlight color and tan color)

L'Oreal Cream liner - Black

Black Radiance Ebony e/s

L'Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes mascara

LIPS:

Mac Spite Lipglass

"Cranberry Surprise" Look

2009-02-27T07:42:00.000-08:00

I really love how this look turned out! :o) I hope you guys enjoy it! I am in the process of editing my tutorial video to upload on Youtube. So check it out! :o)

Products Used:

FACE:

Mac Studio Tech

L'Oreal True Match Blendable Foundation

Mac Studio Finish Concealer

Black Radiance Plum Sorbet Blush

Black Radiance Summer Shimmer Bronzer

L'Oreal Cream Eyeshadow (Commanding)

EYES:

Manly 120 Palette (Cranberry Color)

Mac Vex

Mac 100 Strokes

Black Liquid Eyeliner

L'Oreal Double Extends Beauty Tubes Mascara

Rimmel Glam'Eyes Mascara

Black Radianc Ebony Eyeshadow

Mac Beige-ing Shade Stick

LIPS:

Mac Spite Lipgloss

Neutral Green Eyeshadow Look

2009-02-25T15:19:00.001-08:00

A great neutral look with a hint of color. Great starting point for people experimenting with color! Tutorial is on my youtube page.

Products Used

FACE:

Mac Studio Tech

L'oreal True Match Super Blendable Makeup Foundation (n8 Cappucino)

Black Radiance Summer Shimmer Bronzer

Milani sunset beach blush

EYES:

L'Oreal HIP Cream Shadow Paint (Commanding)

Manly 120 Eyeshadow Palette

Cover Girl Swiss Chocolate

L'oreal Deep Mocha

Black Radiance Ebony

Mac 6 Intriguing Warm Eyes Palette

L'Oreal Double Extends Beauty Tubes Mascara

Milani Color Radiance Eye Pencil (03 Green)

LIPS:

Mac Beaux

Purple Two-Tone Look

2009-02-23T15:20:00.001-08:00

Hey, everyone! Wanted to share my look for today! I wanted to do a purple look. I always get a lot of complements whenever I wear Mac's Beautiful Iris eyeshadow (lighter, violet color). It is a GREAT color to have. Definitely a must-have for any make-up collection. I am also LOVING the L'oreal H.I.P. collection! It has some great products that are VERY comperable to Mac, in my humble opinion. I used one of the cream eyeshadows as a base today. I will update this entry with the actual name of the product tonight! Hope you enjoy! Pics and product list below. I will upload the tutorial on youtube soon!

FACE:

L'oreal True Match Super Blendable Make-up (Cappucino N8)

Mac Studio Fix

Mac Studio Finish Concealer

Black Radiance Plum Sorbet Blush

Black Radiance Summer Shimmer Bronzer

EYES:

Mac Beautiful Iris

Mac Shadowy Lady

Mac Quietly Pigment

Black Radiance Ebony

Black liquid Eyeliner

L'oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes Mascara

L'oreal H.I.P. Cream Eyeshadow (as base)

LIPS:

Wet N Wild (?) Crush lipgloss

Pink & Yellow Eyeshadow Tutorial

2009-02-22T16:20:00.000-08:00

Hey, guys!!! I'm back with a new look! This time with some BRIGHT COLOR!! :o) YAY!!! Anyway, I wore this look to the mall today. Got a lot of complements and stares. Must mean I'm doing something right. LOL. Anyway, pics of the look are below, along with products used. There will be a video tutorial uploaded on Youtube soon! Hope you enjoy!!!

FACE:

Mac Studio Fix

Mac Studio Tech

Mac Studio Finish Concealer

Milani Sunset Beach Blush

Black Radiance Summer Shimmer Bronzer

EYES:

Manly 120 Eyeshadow Palette

Mac Girlie

Mac Expensive Pink

Mac Shadowy Lady

Mac Vex

Black Radiance Ebony

Mac Beige-ing Shade Stick

Rimmel Glam'Eyes Mascara

Liquid Eyeliner

LIPS:

Revlon Paparazzi Pink Lipstick

NYX Natural Lip gloss

The Brown Smoky Eye Revamped!

2009-02-19T17:01:00.001-08:00

Hey everyone! I originally got this idea from a fellow Youtuber, but of course I had to add my own spin to it!! Hope you like it! I don't really have any great pics of this look. :o( I added a tutorial on Youtube, though. Check out my page! www.youtube.com/themakeupgirl09.

Products Used:

FACE:

Mac Studio Fix

Mac Studio Tech

Mac Studio Finish Concealer

Milani Sunset Beach Blush

Black Radiance Summer Shimmer Bronzer

EYES:

Mac Beige-ing Shade Stick

Black Radiance Ebony

L'oreal Deep Mocha

Mac 6 Intriguing Eyes Warm Palette

Manly 120 Palette

LIPS:

NYX Natural

Pink Mauve Eyeshadow Look

2009-02-17T09:19:00.001-08:00

Hey, guys! Back again with a new look using 100 Strokes. I'm on a roll this week! I hope you all enjoy this look. I am uploading a tutorial on my Youtube page (www.youtube.com/themakeupgirl09).

Products Used:

FACE:

Mac Studio Tech

Mac Studio Fix

Mac Studio Finish Foundation

Black Radiance Plum Sorbet blush

Black Radiance Summer Shimmer Bronzer

EYES:

Mac Beige-ing Shade stick

Mac Expensive Pink

Mac Girlie

Mac Vex

Mac 100 Strokes

Black liquid eyeliner

Rimmel Glam'Eyes Midnight Black Mascara

Black Radiance Ebony

LIPS:

Mac Moonstone

Revlon Paparazzi Pink

"100 Strokes" Eyeshadow Look

2009-02-16T09:35:00.000-08:00

Hey, everyone!! I bought a new eyeshadow from Mac yesterday. It's called "100 Strokes." It is SOOOOOO beautiful! I decided to create a look with it today, and I really love how my look turned out! I really think that the Blackened Red glitter really added a POP to this look, but it is optional.

FACE:

Mac Studio Tech

Mac Studio Fix

Mac Studio Finish concealer

Black Radiance Plum Sorbet blush

Black Radiance Summer Shimmer bronzer

EYES:

Mac 100 Strokes

MAC Warm 6 Intriguing Eyes Palette

MAC Reflects Blackened Red

Black Radiance Ebony

Black liquid eyeliner

Black eyeliner pencil

Rimmel Glam'eyes Black mascara

LIPS:

Milani Mystique Mauve Lipstick

"Kim Kardashian Smoky Eye"

2009-02-14T17:29:00.000-08:00

This was just a basic eyeshadow tutorial I put together. I did NOT do a full face of make-up (no foundation, blush, bronzer, etc.). Just the eyes. I thought it would be a good eyeshadow look that people could do if they are make-up beginners, since it only requires two eyeshadow colors. I hope that the tutorial is helpful! Constructive criticism always appreciated.

Products Used:

EYES:

Mac Vex

Black Radiance Ebony

LIPS:

Mac Spite

Green Look...

2009-02-12T19:30:00.000-08:00

Another FAIL for the tutorial! :o( But I wanted to share the look with you anyhow! Hope you enjoy! Products listed below.

P.S. I know I need to get my eyebrows done! I've just been bein lazy. :o)

FACE:

Mac Studio Finish Concealor

Mac Studio Tech

Mac Studio Fix

Milani Sunset Bleach Blush

Black Radiance Summer Shimmer Bronzer

EYES:

Mac Swimming

Mac Humid

Black Radiance Ebony

Mac Vex

Black liquid eyeliner

Mascara

LIPS:

NYX Natural

Pin-Up Girl Eye

2009-02-10T08:52:00.000-08:00

OKAY. I recorded a tutorial for this look, but it was 30 minutes long!!! :o( Obviously that is waaaaaaaaay too long for a tutorial on Youtube. The goal was 10 minutes. Yeah, waaaaaaaaay too long! Plus, I was having some logistical issues as well (mirror placement). SO, back to the drawing board! I figured I should go ahead and at least share the pictures of the look. I will try again with the tutorial soon! I promise!

Products Used:

FACE:

- Mac Studio Tech (NC50)

-Mac Studio Fix (NC50)

-Milani Sunset Beach Mineral Blush

-Black Radiance Summer Shimmer Bronzer

EYES:

-Mac Beiging Shade Stick

-Mac Vanilla Pigment

-Mac highlight color from 6 Warm Eyes Palette

-Loreal Deep Mocha Eyeshadow

-Black liquid eyeliner and black eyeshadow to set

-Mascara

LIPS:

-Mac Beaux Lipglass

I Got a Webcam!!!

2009-02-09T14:10:00.001-08:00

Hey, everyone! Just wanted to write a quick note to let you all know that I got a webcam! So, I am going to start doing live video tutorials!!! I can't wait! Check out my Youtube page when you get a chance. Haven't added any tutorials yet, though. I'm really excited about sharing make-up tips with everyone in cyber land. I hope everyone enjoys them! :o)

www.youtube.com/themakeupgirl09

Different Brushes and How To Use Them!

2009-01-31T05:27:00.000-08:00

This entry will talk about the different brushes that I currently own, and how I use them. Keep in mind that I am not a professional, so my wording may not be accurate! LOL. But I have included the best pics that I could take so you would at least be able to see the type of brush that I am talking about. Also, a few of my brushes are double-ended, but the pics that I’ve taken will not illustrate that. I don’t know if it matters, but if you are trying to look for the same exact brushes that I have, it might. I will try to provide the most information that I know about each brush. Also wanted to point out that I do know that the brushes are dirty. It’s about that time to wash them again! ANYWAY, I hope that some of you will find this post helpful!!!

Mini Eyeshadow Brush (MAC 213 SE) - This brush actually came with the MAC Intriguing Warm Eyes 6 Color Palette. I think it's very cute, but I don't really use it because it is so short! I guess my hands are too big for it. LOL. Maybe I will try to use it more in the future.

Small Concealer Brush (MAC 194) - I don’t really use this brush anymore, because it is too small for the way I use my concealer. I guess it would be good to use if you had to apply concealer to a small area or a place that isn’t usually covered well with a larger brush.

Kabuki brush – This brush works great with applying powder all over your face. I have seem some people use this brush to also apply blush or bronzer.

Mascara brush (Revlon Professional) – I use this brush to groom my eyelashes or remove excess mascara from my eyelashes after application. It can also be used to apply mascara to your lashes, but I never use it for that, since the mascaras that I buy come with a wand.

Smudge brush – this is the brush that I use to smudge eyeliner along my upper and lower lash lines, as well as to apply concentrated color to my crease. I will generally use this brush before using a fluffy eyeshadow brush to blend the color.

Small eyeliner brush (Mark) – This brush is marketed as an eyeliner brush, and that is mainly how I use it, particularly when I want to apply colored eyeshadow as an eyeliner. I have also used it to apply color to my crease before blending with a fluffy eyeshadow brush.

Small eyeshadow brush (Sonia Kashuk) – This is the brush that I use to apply eyeshadow or pigment on my eyelid. It’s a great brush to use because it allows you to pack color onto your lid. This is usually the first brush that I use when I start applying eyeshadow, because I generally start by applying color to my lid first.

Mini angle brush (Revlon Professional) – I use this brush to apply powder to my eyebrows. It can also be used to apply a highlight color under your eyebrows, as well as applying powder to line your lash line.

Angled eyeliner brush (essence of beauty) – I use this brush to apply eyeliner on my top and bottom lids. It works great with powder eyeshadow.

Concealer Brush (essence of beauty) - This is the brush that I use to apply my concealer. Self-explanatory, I guess. LOL. It's great for use under your eyes.

Foundation Brush (essence of beauty) - I LOVE this brush! It's one of my favorites. Before I found out about this brush I was using a sponge to apply my creamy/liquid foundations. Using this brush not only gives you a better make-up application, but it also saves you product in the long-run. The sponges that come with most foundations tend to soak up a lot of the product and cause you to run out faster. I would definitely recommend using some type of foundation brush to apply your foundations.

Large fluffy eyeshadow brush – I also will use this brush to blend eyeshadow in my crease. It is usually the last step in blending and kind of finishes the look. I also use this brush to apply glitter to my eyelid or crease.

Small fluffy eyeshadow brush – this is the brush that I use to blend eyeshadow in my crease area. I will often apply some color with the smudge brush or eyeliner brush directly to my crease and will then follow with the small fluffy eyeshadow brush in order to blend the color out. I also use this brush to blend color into the crease without using the smudge brush. It’s also great to apply color to my brow bone.

Blush brush (essence of beauty) – This is the more traditional blush brush. I use this brush for applying blush to my cheeks (in the way described below). I also use this brush to apply bronzer to brighten my face.

Contour brush (essence of beauty) – I use this brush to contour below my cheeks. I also use it to apply blush at an angle. Since I have round cheeks I do not tend to focus the blush on the apples of my cheeks, which would cause my cheeks to look bigger than they are, and make my face look rounder. So, I tend to use the contour brush to apply blush from the apples of my cheeks up my cheek bone. I hope that makes sense!

That is all for my current brush collection. I hope that you found this post to be helpful! Please post if you have any other questions regarding make-up brushes. You can see that I don't have that many brushes. I don't think that you need 100 make-up brushes to apply make-up well.

Also, I wanted to add that I am on the market for a digital camera so that I can do LIVE make-up tutorials!! The picture tutorials weren’t working for me. LOL. So, just keep on the lookout! I am so excited! When I start doing live tutorials you will be able to see exactly how I use these brushes, and it will all make even more sense!

Today's Make-Up Look

2009-01-30T17:11:00.000-08:00

Hello, fabulous people! HAPPY FRIDAY! I decided to copy one of QueenOfBlendingMUA's Youtube looks today, and I think it turned out looking FABULOUS!!! I would definitely recommend you trying it out! Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gun-9pj8HG4 She did the look using the MAC Intriguing Scarlet 6 Warm Eyes Palette. I absolutely LOVE that palette and am so glad I bought it!!!! Check her video out and see how my look compares to hers! :o) I don't have the antique gold pigment/glitter, so I didn't do that step (which is optional). On my lips I used NYX Natural lip gloss (which I absolutely ADORE).

Also wanted to share my latest nail polish look. I also love nail polish and experimenting with my nails. I did an orange-tip french manicure with a funky twist!

Black Radiance Cosmetics Haul!!

2009-01-25T14:00:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to share my newest make-up purchases with you guys!!! I went to Wal-Mart today in search of a new blush, and ended up buying a bronzer and lipstick as well. I had been hearing great things about the Black Radiance cosmetic brand, so I decided to check them out. I am definitely pleased with what I bought today! AND best of all, all products came to a total of about $10!!!

The lipstick was my MOST favorite purchase out of the bunch. I think the name of it is Purple Passion (will edit if this is the wrong name). It is a beautiful bright pinkish color! It is definitely something that is out of the norm, and would require a lot of guts to pull it off! I was definitely nervous about wearing it out of the house, but liked it so much that I just had to wear it. I would recommend wearing a more neutral eye with this look - somewhat like a revamped pin-up girl look. This is the look I wore today:

The pictures don't really do this lipstick justice to me. It's much more vibrant in person. I'm also VERY impressed with the quality of the lipstick. It did a good job of staying put on my lips. I have been wearing it for almost 3 hours now, and it's still very pretty!

I'm also wearing the blush and bronzer in the pics. The blush is a nice pink color. It is VERY vibrant and pigmented. I actually added too much at first and had to dust a LOT of it off. A LITTLE GOES A LONG WAY. The bronzer adds nice highlights wherever you dust it on your face. You may be able to notice it in the pic, where the flash caught it.

I ended up doing some research on how else I could wear this lipstick and found this pic. The lip color is similar to the lipstick that I just bought. I may try this look someday.

SO, let me know what you think! I definitely recommend that you check out what Black Radiance Cosmetics has to offer. They also sell eyeshadows, eye pencils, false lashes, foundation, pressed powder, etc.

Make-Up Organization!!

2009-01-22T19:30:00.001-08:00

I know I said I was going to do a blog about brushes next. But I decided to do a post about my new make-up organization, because I am so excited!!! (Sorry, Ebonie!) :o) I have finally found a way to organize my make-up that I am happy with!! I wanted to share with you all. I bought a sterilite 5-drawer plastic container at Target. It was $16.99 plus tax.

The first drawer holds all of my eyeshadows, including pigments and any palettes I may have:

The second drawer holds my facial products (i.e., foundations, blushes, powders, etc.) and my lip products (glosses and lipsticks):

The third drawer has all of my other eye products, such as mascara, eyeliners, and false lashes:

The fourth drawer currently is just holding my make-up brushes. I plan on adding to my collection soon. :o)

The last and biggest drawer holds all of my nail products, including my many nail polishes:

Hopefully my pictures will help you come up with some ideas for organizing your own make-up! I got some of my inspiration from You tube and doing a search on Yahoo. I also recycled my old make-up organization case along with my new organization idea.

I also want to point out that I don't think I have a lot of make-up. I am a firm believer that you don't need to buy a lot of products to look good. :o)

Have a good night!

Sorry I've Been M.I.A....

2009-01-17T09:46:00.000-08:00

Hey, everyone. I am SO sorry for leaving you hanging for a while! I have been going through a lot in my personal life. :o/ I just started back with school. My internet has also been acting funny, so I haven't been able to upload many pictures. Anyway, I FINALLY learned how to upload videos on youtube! So, I added my first video! It is just a collection of some make-up looks I've done over the past few months. The pictures do repeat once the video gets to about the two minute mark, because I accidentally fit it to the song. I wanted to have them all in one place for people to see. I plan on uploading another tutorial soon! I will either continue to do them in picture format, or just upload the videos on my blog!

I also wanted to respond to my first official blog comment (from the make-up brush entry)! I am SO glad that I could help you decide on what brushes to get! :o) I would definitely recommend getting most of your brushes from Wal-Mart, or even Target. I LOVE the Sonia Kashuk brushes. I actually plan on getting some more in a few weeks. I have been eyeing the blusher brush... Don't get me wrong. MAC brushes are great, but they are a LOT of money. :o/ If I could afford it I would probably buy more MAC brushes, but the ones from Wal-Mart, Target, CVS, Walgreens, etc. do work just fine. You can definitely have a great makeup application with a "cheap" brush.

Anyway, thanks to those that have let me know that they are enjoying my blog. I definitely plan on being more active on here, so don't give up on me!! Hope you enjoy the video! PLEASE feel free to leave comments and pass it on!

My Make-Up Brushes!

2008-12-24T21:37:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays, everyone!!! I know I have been M.I.A. for a little while, but my camera is actually on hiatus since I keep forgetting to buy new batteries! :o( Anyway, just wanted to take the time to show my make-up brush collection. They make look a little funny in this pic because I had just washed them (warm water and soap).

I personally do not think that expensive make-up brushes are necessary to have a good make-up application. I have gotten most of my brushes from Wal-Mart or drug stores. I own one Mac brush (concealer brush) that I barely even use. Of course if I had the money I would love to update my collection just because, but I don't think it would drastically change the look of my make-up.

Blue Smoky Eye Look

2008-12-11T17:19:00.000-08:00

Hey, everyone!! It's time for my FIRST tutorial! I really hope that some will find this helpful. PLEASE also keep in mind that this is my first time EVER attempting to do a tutorial for other people to follow! Feel free to comment on how I can make my future tutorials better. I tried really hard to include every step that I normally do as best as I can, but I'm sure I forgot SOMETHING. Okay. Now let's get started. Since this is my first tutorial I will start at the very beginning: A fresh face.

Please don't mind the hair! I usually do my make-up before I do my hair. Anyway, so, at this point I had exfoliated my face in the shower, used a cotton ball to apply toner on my face, and followed up with my moisturizer (Lubriderm). I also made that face on purpose. ;o)

NEXT, I apply my concealer. I use Mac's concealer that comes in this type of container. I use my fingers to apply it to my under eye area, as well as any areas on my face that may need to be covered up.

I will then apply my cream foundation over the rest of my face. I like to mix my foundation with a little bit of my moisturizer in order to have a smoother application. For this tutorial I used my Covergirl Aquasmooth foundation in "Soft Sable." Sometimes after I apply this foundation I will follow up with one of Mac's loose powders with a Kabuki brush to finish off the look. I also use a foundation brush to apply the cream foundation to my face.

And this is what my face looks like after I apply my facial products. Notice a difference from the first pic?? I can definitely tell that my face isn't in its best shape because I haven't been drinking my water like I should. :o( Anyway, to finish off preparation for the eye makeup I apply the same Mac concealer that I used under my eyes to my eyelids, up to my eyebrows. This serves as a primer for the eyeshadow, and allows the colors to really POP. :o)

Okay, now on to the fun part - the eyeshadow!!! :o) For this look I will be using my Manly 120 color palette. You can find these online. Most people have bought theirs off of Ebay.

First, we will start with the inner half of the eyelids. I used the silver color on the first row:

Then, I will apply a darker shade of blue to the outer half of my eyelid. Now, remember when I said that I would probably forget something?? :o/ Apparently, I did not take a pic of the eyeshadow color that I used in the palette. Hopefully you can kind of tell what color blue that was used, or at least something similar.

Lastly, I took an even darker shade of blue and applied it to my crease.

Next I proceeded to blend the colors together. I also added liquid eyeliner to my top lid and a eyeliner pencil to my bottom waterline. I finished up the look with mascara. I also filled in my eyebrows with some dark brown eyeshadow.

And you're done!! I know that this was probably not as helpful as it could've been, and for that I do apologize. I think it will just take me a little while to get the hang of this tutorial thing! Please feel free to provide feedback on how I can improve!

Starting With the Basics: Facial Care

2008-12-10T10:58:00.001-08:00

Sometimes people ask me how I get my skin to look so smooth. Although my skin is not horrible, it's DEFINITELY not in its best shape, but I would like to share my facial regimen before I get started with the make-up tutorials. I hope y'all don't mind! ;o) I will share with you the products that I use for my daily skin routine, as well as how I use them. Also, all of the products that I am currently using are fairly cheap, and are very affordable. I hope you guys find this helpful! Please let me know if you have any questions!!

1. Dove Beauty Moisture Foaming Facial Cleanser

This is the facial cleanser that I use to remove make-up from my face. I use it at least once a day with a wash cloth or with my hands. This is my first time using this, and I really like this product.

2. Queen Helene Apricot Natural Facial Scrub

I use this product to exfoliate my skin a few times a week. I use this product on my face when I'm not wearing make-up, and in place of my moisturizer. The bottle says that it's safe enough to use daily to exfoliate your skin and get the dead skin cells off of your face so that your make-up application will be smoother.

3. Witch Hazel

I use a generic brand of witch hazel as a toner. You can really use any brand of witch hazel (they should all be the same/similar). I use this twice a day after I moisturize/exfoliate my skin. It feels great on my skin (very refreshing).

4. Lubriderm Body Lotion (any type)

In an effort to save money I currently use my body lotion as a facial moisturizer, and it works pretty well. I have extremely dry skin, which is why I ONLY use Lubriderm on my body. I ran out of my moisturizer one day, and I just started using my lotion, and haven't bought a facial moisturizer since! I would definitely recommend using it. I honestly can't tell the difference between a facial moisturizer and my Lubriderm body lotion. The generic also works just as well.

WELCOME TO MY BLOG!!!!

2008-12-08T13:41:00.000-08:00

This is the first post to my new blog! Just wanted to welcome everyone! I have been wanting to create a make-up blog for a long time, and here it is! I hope that you all will find my blog to be helpful in improving your make-up skills, as well as providing you will more make-up ideas! I plan on providing a step-by-step tutorial at least once a week for a make-up look once I get the ball rolling. For my first post I will just leave you with a few of my favorite make-up looks. I hope you enjoy, and will check back with me often!

~JK :o)