» Beauty Beat

Beauty and the Tech Geek: L’Oréal Paris introduces The MatchMaker™ by True Match

Marie Denee — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:30:51 +0000

I love innovative and techy awesomeness. Such is the case with L’Oréal Paris and the iPhone/ iPad! The team over at L’Oreal have developed a fabulous app to help you chose your True Match- in finding the perfect foundation shade!

Kind of cool right?

On a serious mission to take all guesswork out of matching the perfect shade:

“L’Oréal Paris embarked on its most ambitious shade study to date – collecting skin tone and texture data from thousands of women representing 57 different countries. L’Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable makeup now offers a range of 33 lab-developed foundations that represent the universe of skin color and are guaranteed to match 100% of all skin tones.”

A Tall Order right? Well, one of those steps to backup their claim is this quite fun app (I am a little bit jealous as I am #TeamAndroid) by taking all of the frustrations from women of all ethnicities and backgrounds and creating a solution. L’Oreal has upped the tech ante by bringing you an app to help you find your perfect shade! All you have to do is answer a few questions, with visual cues and aids and voila!

The MatchMaker™ by True Match mobile app consists of:

·Find Your Shade – a quick and comprehensive quiz that helps to determine the unique undertones and color depth of your skin.
·My True Match- the diagnostic color matching tool that identifies your L’Oréal Paris True Match shade. This also provides insight into what tones look best on your skin and what celebrities share your tone.
·Store Locator – provides a local map on where to easily find L’Oréal Paris True Match in the local area.

To learn more and buy, visit the L’Oreal True Match app at the iTunes Store!

Q.How Cool is this?Do you use L’Oreal for your foundation? Will you use this app to help you find your match?

Keep it Curvy.Confident.Chic.

For the Last Minute Holiday Shopper: Finding gifts for everyone!

Marie Denee — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 17:04:07 +0000

Thanks to Walgreens for underwriting this post. I was paid as a member of the Clever Girls Collective, but the content is all mine. Visit http://www.walgreens.com/beauty.

Tis the night before Christmas, and have you finished shopping!

With me being the ULTIMATE procrastinator (I just started shopping THIS week!); I had to share with you where I will more than likely be going to pick up all my family’s essentials!

Over here on the west coast, you cannot get enough of Walgreens! Kind of like the Duane Reade equivalent over here in California- I am always here shopping for my day to day essentials! So much so, that my local Walgreens knows my name, what I do, and how things are doing in my life! Seriously, I am a devout creature of habit…

So, for the holidays, this is a place I love to stop in and shop, because in my family, we gift essentials and make wishlists of day-to-day necessities from makeup to our favorite toilet paper! YES, we do! As the recession has hit, my mother thought it timely and right to get back to the basics and that we do!

I mean, we get specific and we stock up. Especially as I am extremely particular with the brands and products I use! I really dig the gift sets some of my favorites put out each holiday season! For my Stepdad, sister, mother, brother in law, cousins, you name it, you can swoop it up here! With the help of Walgreens Gift Guide, Clever Girls, and my addiction to Walgreens (NO- for reals!), I have to share with you some of their best picks- for who and why!

Here are a few of the gifts I am giving and that I would love for myself! LOL Oh and Guess what? I have got coupons!!!! Print today and use in store!!!!

Tis the Night Before Christmas- Last Minute Gift Ideas

Walgreens Givenchy for men

Walgreens Hip Hop Brush Kit

Walgreens Loreal Mascara

Walgreens Olay 7 Signs

Walgreens Sally Hansen Nail strips

Walgreens Shea Moisture Curl and SHine

Walgrens Deep Steep Foot Care set

Walgreens Burt Bees set

Walgreens Cars BandAids

Walgreens Gilette Set for Him

And the Walgreens Holiday Gift Guide with Coupons inside!

Walgreens Holiday Guide

#TCFTurns3 Giveaway Smelling Good with CoSTUME NATIONAL PoP COLLECTION EDP

Marie Denee — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 19:15:06 +0000

Hahahah… I don’t know if you know how much fun this is bringing you amazing giveaways!

Today we have giveaway number 2 coming from the fabulous CoSTUME NATIONAL with its holiday PoP Collection! Whether for you or for someone who is an UBER fan, this collection is one to smile about!

What is it?

Well, PoP is Inspired by the minimal, yet bold, monochromes of the CoSTUME National ready-to-wear collection – capturing the classic and sophisticated essence of the brand. Just like the fashion collection, this Eau de Parfum is pop-chic dressed, with bottles painted in bold hues of turquoise, orange, red and blue!

What scents?

The refined scent blends invigorating notes of pink grapefruit and bittersweet raspberry with floral hints of rose and jasmine, topped off with a warm finish of amber gris, cashmere and patchouli heart – producing a scent that is fresh, feminine and sensual all at once.

Woot! And you get to win this collection valued at $100! To be eligible to win, make sure you are subscribed to the Curvy Fashionista Newsletter! Next, enter your details in the form below, Tweet the giveaway, Like us on Facebook- and all that jazz! You Ready? Enter NOW!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Contest ends on the 27^th of December at 12:01 am EST!

Good Luck!

Don’t forget if you are in the LA Area, you are invited to come out to my Blog Anniversary Party (<– RSVP at the link)!

In the meantime, make sure you check out the latest #TCFturns3 giveaways!

Holiday Skin Care tips with Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd of Specific Beauty

Marie Denee — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 13:30:07 +0000

I do not know about you, but this time of the year?? Slays me. Living in Southern California does not help with the wind, unpredictable weather, and my often easily irritated skin!

I actually have a secret! I have a serious thing for really soft, moisturized, and smooth skin. I am particular about my body washes, my lotions, and skin care… and how to find that perfect balance for me!

So, when I got a few tips from Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd about how to care for your skin in these cooler and sometimes downright bone chilling temps, I had to share with a quickness, because as I now sit on the 30 mark… I gots to take care of my skin! You get me!

Okay, enough from me… so now for the tips:

TIPS TO KEEP THAT HOLIDAY GLOW

During the winter, dry skin is a problem for most women. Use a heavier moisturizer at this time of year. (I rock a moisturizer AND SPF even in the winter!)
Apply moisturizers immediately after cleansing to lock in moisture. Look for ingredients like ceramide, which help to restore the skin’s natural barrier. (I always try to moisturize my whole body right after I shower! Never heard of ceramide, *runs to check now*)
If your skin is not acne prone, olive oil can be used to hydrate at night. (Really? I had no idea! I wish I knew this sooner!!!)
If your skin becomes dry, decrease retinoids to every other night. Studies show that the anti-aging effects are achieved even if used just 3 times per week. (I will check my anti-oxidant to see if it has this…. But great to know!)
Don’t forget the lips. Dry chapped lips are common in winter and can make you look worn down. Carry a lip moisturizer or Vaseline in your purse and reapply throughout the day to combat dryness. (STORY of my LIFE! I keep a great lip chap handy!)

The hands should also not be neglected. Carry an intensive hand moisturizer in your purse and apply before putting on gloves on cold winter days. Ingredients like glycerin help to draw in moisture and improve hydration of dry chapped hands. ( I hate being ashy and actually have on ein my purse AND in my car.. you won’t catch me dry!)

Who is Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd?

Dr. Woolery-Lloyd is a dermatologist and the creator of Specific Beauty – a unique and targeted new skincare line designed to address the skin needs of multi-hued skin tones. Over the last decade, Heather has focused her time and energy into researching and developing effective treatments for the cosmetic concerns of multi-hued skin tones. Historically, there has been a tremendous void in dermatologic research in this area. Heather was determined to create an effective skin care line that delivered radiant, even skin at a price point accessible to all women.

One of my favorite products from this collection is the wipes! Wipes baby! You know those nights when you get home late with a face full of makeup? Don’t you dare go to sleep with your “face” on! Well, these Exfoliating Cleansing Cloths are like butter baby! LOL

Make sure you head on over to Specific Beauty’s Facebook Page for the chance to win…

Wait for it…

Wait for it….

$1000!

This is like having all of your Christmas shopping reimbursed to you!

Winner chosen on the 9^th! But you have to head on over to Specific Beauty on Facebook!

Winter Make-Up “Do’s & Don’ts” with Nakeah Fuller

Nyvia W — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 13:00:19 +0000

Let’s be honest? Having Google as your main source of finding trends is..ok. But there is nothing that can beat the source,especially when it comes to make-up. Having a ‘how-to’ guide for the Winter is just what is needed to kick off this season with style and grace. Making sure your facial features are in line with this seasons fashion trends can be a bit complicated.

Celebrity make-up artist and creator of ‘Nakeah Cosmetics’, Nakeah Fuller, happily gave us the run-down on dodging those cracks in this seasons make-up transition. Also the owner of ‘All about Face’ Academy and Nakeah Cosmetics Beauty Lounge, this Texas native was bound for greatness the second she picked up a brush.

Working for several household cosmetic lines, including MAC and Iman, Fuller couldn’t help but take her well-developed craft and apply it to other areas of the industry. Working with a unique range of celebrities, Fuller took that opportunity to enhance her household name and develop a line with ‘us in mind’.

” A Cosmetic Line with YOU in mind”

What essential tips would you give woman of all colors for the winter?

During Winter months it is important to keep both your skin & lips well moisturized. Our Menthal lip balm is amazing for multiple reasons. With Nakeah Cosmetics Lip Balm you can say “bye-bye” to Dry Lips! Lips stay moist and protected with our peppermint infused lip balm. Enjoy a high shine with a refreshing cool minty sensation. The peppermint oil helps give breath long lasting breath freshness. You can also enjoy the pleasure of wearing a clear lip balm that shines like a lip gloss! It can be worn alone or on top of lipstick. Nakeah Cosmetics Moisturizer – With our moisturizer your skin is sure to stay hydrated during the cold season while having the perfect amount of moisture. Can be applied alone & before applying makeup.

Price Points:

Lip Balm: $14.50

Moisturizer: $39.50

Light tones: Soft golden eye makeup with beautiful red lips.
Medium tones:Deep Gold on the eyes with plum lip shades
Dark tones: Bronzy eye shadow with gorgeous burgundy tones on the lip

Which special holiday Nakeah Cosmetics products do you use the most during the winter?

Liquid Face Foundation $32.50
Mineral Bronzing Wand for face & body glow – $22.50
Long Lasting Lip gloss - $18.00

What products do you suggest for untamed skin tones?

Oily skin texture?

Our Dual Powder Foundation - This formula is offered in a wide range of gorgeous shades. Applies as a powder and sets flawlessly. All foundations are high def and look amazing on camera.

Rough skin texture?

Our Liquid Face Foundation – A liquid water based non-comedogenic formula containing Vitamin E. It blends perfectly and never streaks or cakes. A lightweight formula that helps camouflage skin’s imperfections. Contains Wheat Germ, which improves skin’s elasticity and helps to prevent skin blemishes. Perfect for even the most sensitive skin. All foundations are high def & paraben free. For the best application, use our foundation brush to apply.

Acne? Is it ok to add makeup during a winter breakout?

Great Skin Care = Great Skin! Find time to allow your pores to breathe with out wearing makeup. Do not sleep in your makeup. This clogs your pores and you are sure to experience a breakout. During the winter months if you notice a breakout visit a dermatologist as you want to be cautious of allergies while maintaining a great diet including tasty green vegetables throughout the holiday season. It is also important to maintain a consistent skin care regimen to prevent breakouts

Many women have issues with actually applying the make-up. What brushes or tactics do you suggest?

Every women should take a professional makeup course. You would be amazed at the tools, tips & tricks that you’re missing out on. Start with a great set of brushes; however seek professional advice as you want to be certain that you’re using the right tools to achieve your desired look. At Nakeah Cosmetics we customized a set that’s perfect for every client and their desired look. Our brushes sets are made with the highest quality at affordable prices. Along with the perfect brush case, you can choose unique brush colors for your set in Pink, Black, or White.

List 4 Winter makeup trends that take us from work to dinner:

Day makeup: Soft eyes with a natural lipstick shade. For evening, simply add a darker shade in the outer crease area which gives more of a smokey eye followed by our mineral bronzing powder on the cheeks which gives the cheeks an amazing glow. Lastly, add color on the lips; preferably a lip gloss for a glamorous lip shine.

What advice would you give women who are uncertain of their stance on using makeup?

Wearing makeup actually protects our skin from the sun’s damaging UV Rays. Prevent discoloration & aging spots by wearing makeup as a shield of protection. Our unique brand feels very light on the skin. It’s been proven to look both very natural & very beautiful. Enjoy wearing makeup without having th worry of looking & feeling overdone.

At Nakeah Cosmetics we offer dynamic workshops as we’d love to show you how to properly apply your makeup for both day & evening. It is our goal to show every women how to look & feel her absolute best without having any doubts.

At the All About FACE Academy (our sister company) we offer a full program for those who desire professional training to become a Professional Makeup Artist for Film, TV, Runway, Editorial, Bridal, and Commercial Print. We also offer 5 day workshops, 3 week workshops, and 1 day courses.

Ok ladies- make sure you jot down your ‘must-haves’. Just in case, below is a recap of some of this seasons NC most popular products.

Spunk Evening shaded lipgloss

C5 Liquid Foundation

Mineral Bronzing Brush

Bad Bessie Lipgloss

NC Skin Care System

Dual Powder Foundation

Visit Nakeah Cosmetics and All About Face Academy for more information!

Holiday Wish List- 30+ Beauty Gift Sets

Marie Denee — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 14:00:43 +0000

Let’s face it, the holiday season is THE BEST time to shop for new beauty products, to get the best bang for your buck when it comes to sets, and a great way to learn about them! If you are anything like me though, you are extremely picky, fussy, and particular about what fragrances, skin care products, make up brands, or soaps that you will wear- NO WORRIES! I have something for everyone (well almost).

So, what’s on the wishlist? I have rounded up some of the coolest and most eye- catching gift sets- from soaps to mascaras to fragrances that are sure to go to the top of YOUR… err someone’s holiday wishlist! Are you ready to take a peek? To help you out, I have linked them so you can hop along and shop until your heart is content!

TWEEZERMAN Swarovski Crystal Tweezers & Stand

Smashbox 'Click You're It' Holiday Eye Palette ($250 Value)

MAC Make it Perfect Gift Set

THE NEW BLACK 'Graffiti - Ombré Nail Shades' 5-Piece Set

Dickensian Volume Nail Polish by Strange Beautiful

Smashbox 'Pretty In Pictures' Holiday Set ($230 Value)

YSL Golden Gloss Trio

Marc Jacobs Oh, Lola! Gift Set

MALIN+GOETZ Mojito Bar Soap Set

Stella McCartney Stella Rollerball Set

M•A•C 'Iced Delights - Rocking' Nail & Lip Bag

Lancome Juicy Tubes Gift Set

Philosophy The More The Merrier Set

Shiseido 'Benefiance' Eye Contour Set

LaLicious Collection Gift Set

butter LONDON 'The Black Knight & Tart with a Heart' Duo

philosophy 'hands of hope' ornament

SEPHORA by OPI Glimmer Wonderland Eighteen Piece Mini Nail Colour Set

Dior Holiday Deluxe Face Palette

Benefit "peace, love & glossiness" lip gloss set

CoSTUME NATIONAL PoP COLLECTION

La Prairie 'Irresistible Caviar' Set ($234 Value)

)NARS 'Mie Kabuki' Mini Soft Touch Eyeshadow Pencil Coffret ($90 Value)

NARS Lose Yourself Blush/Bronzing Powder Duo & Lip Gloss Set

Bliss 'Santa's Little Helpers' Set ($24 Value)

Lancome Hypnose Mascara Set

Carol's Daughter Hair and Skin Care Gift Sets

Donna Karan Cashmere Mist Luxuries Gift Set

Dior 'J'Adore' Holiday Jewel Box Set

philosophy 'just because' set

Jo Malone 'The Pomegranate Noir Fragrance Chronicle' Set

Angel by Thierry Mugler Metamorphosis Collector (Nordstrom Exclusive)

Was it good for you as it was for me? Even if you do not see anything you like, I am sure you are to find something for a family member or friend! If not, make sure you like on Facebook and share with your tweeps! Sharing is caring! J

Don’t forget- The Cyber Monday Mega List and the Black Friday Mega Lists may have JUST what You Need!

Q.Which one was YOUR favorite? I really want the Smashbox set!

Miss Piggy for MAC

Marie Denee — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 17:39:23 +0000

Maybe I am showing and telling my age, but I loved watching me some Muppets when I was a child! I loved even more the Curvy and Vivacious Miss Piggy! Forever sassy and Chic! With the arrival of The Muppets, MAC has down something so on point for this curvy, confident, and chic muppet!

They gave her a collection!

YES…. And she is working it!

Playing up to her eyes, MAC has released a three piece eye collection including an eyeliner, shadow, and lashes! You can score all three for only $47.50! I am intrigued so when I got the details I had to share them with you!

Here are the details:

Miss Piggy Pink

“Known for her bedazzling blue eyes, silky blond hair & sensationally shapely measurements, Miss Piggy was kind enough to collaborate with M·A·C on the universe’s most perfectly pink Eye Shadow.”

36 Lash

“Originally launched as Sultress Lashes. Full lash, creates a naturally dramatic look. M·A·C Lashes are handmade to exact specifications. Each pattern and design is perfectly shaped and arranged to give a striking effect, whether the look is natural or dramatic.”

Penultimate Eyeliner

“A liquid pen-style liner that provides the ultimate precise, bold line in a rich, deep carbon black shade. Goes on fluidly, in one steady stroke, to style any fashion of eye line.”

You can buy the collection exclusively at MAC!

You better go Miss Piggy!

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