Toronto Makeup Finds

Since moving to Toronto, I have access to beauty products like never before. I haven't done as much damage as I thought - much restraint. With that said, "With much power (knowledge) comes much responsibility", so I feel it is my duty to share with you the vast number of fabulous makeup finds.

PIR- Praise Jesus Google Maps exists, or else I would not have found this little gem of a boutique. Tucked within Yorkville on a side street, contains a full hair salon and makeup store. Within it, contains niche products such as  Kevyn Aucoin, Eve Lom, Paula Dorf and Mario Badescu. 
http://www.pircosmetics.com/

R. Hiscott- Purveyor of theatrical makeup and wigs. Whilst its former digs was cluttered and cramped, the location on the Danforth is small but better laid out. They still provide incredible experience and knowledge with companies such as Mehron and Ben Nye. If you need Pros Aid or 1st degree, you can find it here.
 
Blur Makeup Room- Meeting the creator of Yaby cosmetics and the staff at this great little find, was a fantastic experience. I was able to purchase the ever elusive Embryolisse Creme Concentre as well as other lovely little products otherwise scarce; Yaby cosmetics, OCC, Graftobian, Bdellium tools, Lit Cosmetics, Stilazzi, Face Atelier and Kim Green line of bags.
Blur Makeup Room

Pacific Mall - It brought me back to my days in Korea. Love the stalls containing many health and beauty stores. Here is where I found true BB creams like my beloved Lioelle Waterdrop.

M.A.C. Pro Store- Before moving here, I visited this store whenever I was in Toronto. Love it and will always find a place in my heart for this one on Bloor Street West

Jealousy - Cute store on Queen Street West, where there are tons of Asian Beauty products but also Me, Me, Me line of cosmetics

Kryolan Makeup Store - Kryolan store with an Acadamey within the building. Knowledgeable staff and tons of products. Finally, found Z-palettes in Toronto!

Shoppers Drug Mart Beauty Boutiques - the mega store is located in the Eaton Centre. It definitely received a make over. It is sleek and sexy, with lacquered black and stations intricately placed winding throughout the store. This has Darphin, Chanel, L'Occitane, Philosophy as well as the usual Biotherm, Clarins, Smashbox etc.

Fall/Winter 2013-14

Pumpkin Spice Lattes can only mean one thing, Autumn has arrived. With that, the leaves change, so too must our makeup. This year offers up the usual wine lips and velvet skin, with a splash of glitter and cat eyes. Gone is the smokiness of charcoal/black - Orange, plum and washes of grey dominated the models' eyes.


Glitter:

Hard one to wear and look professional and chic. There are ways around it with glitter liners and subtle sized neutral glitter, but I would forgo the pieces of sparkly confetti for work and leave it for a night out.

Photo credit:Imaxtree harpers bazaar

Photo credit:Imaxtree harpers bazaar

Cat eyes:

In every colour, why not?! One can go as loud or a demure with this trend. It can be soft with rounded edges or more graphic and striking with sharp edges. Either way it is work and night out appropriate

Photo credit:Imaxtree harpers bazaar

Photo credit:Imaxtree harpers bazaar

Wine lips:

This is more of a stain and polished look. It still is mysterious and vampy and luckily without the gloss. Use your finger to pat the lipstick on your lips or use a lip balm then lipstick.

Photo credit:Imaxtree harpers bazaar

Colour washes:

Oranges, plums and greys. Nice indeed and simple.
To accomplish this look, use a larger fluffy crease brush. It allows for a dusting of colour.

Photo credit:Imaxtree harpers bazaar

Photo credit:Imaxtree harpers bazaar

Photo credit:Imaxtree harpers bazaar

 Thanks for taking a look
xo Megs

M.A.C. Fall 2013 Indulge

M.A.C.

Fall Colour is a surreal feast for the senses, where no taste is too extravagant and no behaviour beyond limits.

With models wearing ostentatious makeup and clothes; and bountiful amounts of decadent desserts, M.A.C.'s newest offering, suggests luxury and richness. Personally, I will be looking at the eyeshadows' textures to judge how truly "luxe" they really are.

Eyeshadow 
$18.00 Cdn
 
Gilty Morsel- glittery light gold (lustre)
Sex & The Oyster- mid-tone grayed blue green (veluxe pearl)

Three Ring Yellow- bright sulfer green yellow (veluxe pearl)
Divine Decadence- soft bronze (veluxe)
Beluga- dark charcoal with multi-dimensional pearl (veluxe)
Eat, Love -deep emerald (satin)
Deep Cravings - dark shimmery grey (veluxe pearl)
Palace Pedigreed - dark plum (satin)

Fluid Line
$19.00 Cdn
 
Black Track* - solid flat black
Deliciously Rich- shimmering dirty taupe
Gilt Gourmet - sparkling brushed gold


Mascara
$25.00 Cdn
 
Haute and Naughty*

Cheek - Creamblend Blush 
$25.00 Cdn
Tease Your Tastes - soft neutral pink
Glamour Feast - deep rose

Lipstick
$18.00 Cdn
 
Smash Hit - sheer gold sparkle (dazzle)
By Design - soft shimmery beige (frost)
Feed the Senses -mid-tone mauvey nude (lustre)
Just a Bite - mid-tone blue red (satin)
Sweet Succulence - deep glossy plum (lustre)

Lipglass
$18.00 Cdn
 
Ultimate Dish - light beige with pearl
Fashion Punch - mid-tone neutral pink
Liqueur - shimmering taupe
Lust For Life - dark berry
Utterly Tart - deep red

Nail Lacquer
$19.00 Cdn
 
Sinfully Sweet - sparkling champagne with gold pearl (frost)
Magnificent Feast -sparkling true gold (frost)
Discotheque- super glittery silver (frost)
Impassioned- bright warm pink (cream)
Screening Room - bright mid-tone teal (cream)

Rebel - mid-tone cream plum (cream)

Makeup Essentials

As a teenager I didn't really wear much, if any makeup. However, I started "collecting" makeup in my 20's, a little later than most, but I have made up for it, trust. In my day-to-day life,  I am asked quite often about the makeup basics - what are the essentials? I generally have to probe a little further and see their comfort level with makeup.

One doesn't need to spend an exorbitant amount on basics as the drugstore brands have some really great products. Honestly, unless you are willing to fork over $40 to $50 on a foundation, stick with the following:

Base:

This includes liquid foundation, cream,powder, BB Creams, tinted moisturizer. Depending on your skin type and desired look, a base is literally like your house's foundation. It is the base on which everything else relies and depends on. Be the pickiest with this and choose the proper colour, finish and type. 

For those with:

Normal to Combination-Oily

Revlon Colour Stay

Maybelline Fit Me stick

L'Oreal True Match

Marcelle BB Cream

Revlon ColorStay Whipped

Normal to Dry skin

Rimmel Wake Me Up

Marcelle BB Cream

L'Oreal Magic Lumi

Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum

 

If you want to "set" your base, which isn't always necessary and an extra step, I recommend Rimmel Stay Matte. 

Additionally, concealer is a girl's best friend. If you are blessed to have fabulous skin with minimal discolouration or spots, all you need is a concealer.

Rimmel Wake Me Up

Revlon Photo Ready - not under the eyes

Maybelline Age Rewind

Maybelline Fit Me

Mascara

Most makeup artists will tell you that mascara is the little black dress of makeup.While, I understand this, I didn't start wearing mascara until about 5 years ago. However, I believe if you want to draw attention to your eyes and wear the minimum, choose mascara.

Rimmel Sexy Lashes

L'oreal Voluminous

Maybelline The Falsies and Colossus

Drugstore mascaras are brilliant and they are so much cheaper than their high end counterparts. I do not like throwing away money and every 3 months, that mascara has got to go.

Cheeks

Once you use your base, you need to bring the colour back into the cheeks to give you some dimension. This is where the mass brands need work. Most do not carry cream blushers and the powder ones are chalky and not finely milled. However, NYX makes fantastic powder blushers as does Revlon. Most recently Marcelle brought out a Jelly Cheek Flush reminiscent of Givenchy's cheek product. Rimmel also makes a great matte bronzer.

Eyeshadow

I love eyeshadow and playing up my eyes. This is the easiest way to look "done". Cream shadows are so nice and new formulations make them easy to use and not crease. I personally love Maybelline Colour Tattoo shadows. Additionally, L'Oreal make fabulous loose powdered shadows that are smooth like butter.

Along with shadow, one can use eyeliners, but this is an accessory and therefore not necessary. Eyeshadows can be used as an eyeliner and they create a softer look than a kohl or liquid liners. However, you want to use an eyeliner, Rimmel ScandalEyes are better than most high end liners. 

Lips

Lest we forget the lips. Most brands have amazing lipsticks, glosses and balms. Honestly, depending on how sheer or opaque you want them, there is a product for you. Revlon's Lip butters are hugely popular and for good reason. They are sheer but still give you enough colour to be noticeable. Additionally, you don't need to fuss with them and they come in a variety of colours. Revlon also brought out the Kissable Lip Stains. They are long lasting without drying the lips. Another long lasting lip range are the Maybelline 24hr lip series- stains, lipsticks. Fantastic!

If you want a more lacquered and opaque look Rimmel just recently launched the Apocalips in Canada. I can't rave enough about them. 

L'Oreal and Revlon have always had great lipstick shades and formulations. However, I can't get over the fragrance. Therefore, it is hard for me to recommend them. With that said, they are trendy and smooth with some great classic colours.

Thanks for coming by

cheers,

xo Megs

Bridal Makeup/Long Lasting Makeup

I had the pleasure of doing my good friend's wedding day makeup and her bridal party, that would be 6 in total.....phew. It was so much fun to make each one of them feel beautiful and comfortable.  While the former is paramount, the latter is extremely important too. For instance, three of my girls did not routinely wear makeup, which can be slightly uncomfortable for them and tricky for the makeup artist. Whether it be extremely natural makeup or a smokey eye, to them any amount of makeup was going to be shocking. The key is to really keep the colours neutral and use their colouring as a guide. For example, look at their natural lip colour and go a little a shade lighter or darker. For the eyes, keep the colours soft and matte and use these colours to accentuate their eye colour. Remember to explain to them that flash photography with wash them out and that makeup is needed. I like taking a picture with a flash just to show them the difference.

TRICKS

Use waterproof makeup wherever you can! Companies have some excellent products that keep that makeup from going anywhere.
Make Up For Ever aqua eye liners are fabulous

Layer, layer layer- this means using an eye pencil then going over it with a similar eye shadow. Use lip liner and then a lipstick, blot, lipstick ,blot, lipstick.

PRIMER - using a face primer and an eye primer is essential for any long lasting makeup. I love using Smashbox Photofinish Primer. They are all oil-free and great for making the skin smooth and flawless.

FOUNDATION when it is hot and you want it to last, I love using Cover FX Natural FX and MAC's Face and Body. These babies last under most conditions. Be warned - if you have super oily skin proceed with the aforementioned with caution. They do not work as well.

SETTING SPRAYS - Urban Decay De-Slick is an excellent one and MAC's Fix Plus

Wedding makeup is definitely individual. However, I am a firm believer of having the Bride looking like herself but glamorous.
xo Megs

Kohl Rimmed Eyes

We all know that the eyes are the windows to the soul and with a little Kohl those windows bring the heat. A little bit rock n' roll, sexy and smokey,the kohl rimmed eye dates back to the ancient Egyptians where it was used to protect the eyes from the sun and ward of the Evil Eye. Other parts of the world used it as a cosmetic. For instance in India, kohl brought attention to the eyes and dancers' movements. Whether you call it kohl or kajal, the look creates a sensual look and both sexes have been using it for years. Look at johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow or the past punk and rock n' roll gods - it draws you in, creates mystery and wantonness.

 
Skip to now and the sexiness of it isn't going anywhere. Just hit a club or a couple out on a date, the eyes will be smoked out with the blackness of kohl or a variation of it. The way kohl was made was a little suspect, now modern formulas are safe and beautiful. It comes in variations such as the traditional powder and the ease of a pencil. Such companies as Guerlain make an ornate packaged powdered version that intimidates me. For me, the pencil version is the easiest and gives me the desired look. Rimmel makes a fabulous version, as do MAC and Lancome. Be forewarned kohls are soft and will smudge, but that is what makes it sexy ;)

Recommended:

Guerlain Terracotta Kohl

Rimmel Kohl Kajal -Black

M.A.C Kohl - Feline and Smoulder

Lancome Le Crayon Khol - Black Ebony, Black Lapis

Thanks for dropping by.

xo Megs

Newly Tried Companies: LIT Cosmetics

I have never been much of a glitter girl, but having watched a few YouTube videos where Lit Cosmetics were either mentioned and/or used, piqued my interest in this Canadian company. Lit is a Calgary- based glitter cosmetic company and Jodie ,the owner and creator, seems like a free-spirit who believes in the power of sparkle and shine.

I browsed through the online catalog, which is very extensive in colours and sizes.There are four sizes of glitter S1 to S4. S1 is a microcut glitter and more refined, S2 is the most popular size and small cut; S3 is large cut and S4 is the largest. It also comes in different textures - Solids, Electrics, Metallics, and Shimmers. Furthermore, ordering a kit of is a better deal plus you receive glitter glue, a brush and a puff that removes any stray glitter. So I ordered three stackable colours - Punk, Fire Cracker and Beach Baby.

The colours are beautiful and the base is sticky at first, but after a few blinks you don't even feel it. It is also relatively easy to remove. The thing that stands out with this company is the customer service. At the time of ordering, Jodie and her crew were going to be in NYC at the IMATS so my order was going to be delayed. She wrote me and indicated that she threw in some extra goodies for me. When my package arrived a handwritten note accompanied it. Nice touch ;)

 Overall, great Canadian company and if you want a little glitter in your life, check out Lit.

www.litcosmetics.com


Price per glitter $12.95
package of 3 $68.95, includes puff, glitter base and brush

Take care,
xo Megs

Loving Now: Make Up For Ever

As a makeup artist, I have access to a variety of brands. One brand that most people have heard of but has not made a lot of hype is Make Up For Ever. On par with M.A.C., Illamasqua, Kryolan and Ben Nye, this French company is known to pro- artists as well as those who enjoy a good eyeshadow.  I feel that the lack of accessibility and less glamorous collections make this a slightly overlooked company.

For me, their HD foundation is a must. A natural finish and a fantastic colour range, makes this base one of my favourite foundations. Additionally, their eyeshadows are pigmented and so smooth. Great colours and versatility. Most like their Aqua Eyes liners and cream bases. I concur and add that their aqua black is a phenomenal liner, espeically for the water line.

I also ventured into their flash palette. This little gem contains creamy, smooth pigments that would be similar to M.A.C's chromaline, chromapaint and chromagraph line. It is also similar to Kryolan's pigment palette. For the daily makeup user, I don't think this little package is needed, however for those of us who love  and are deeply embedded in this art form, I recommend it.

I have also used their Stardust loose pigments. I have the black powder with black glitter..... uh gorgeous! Fallout is a slight problem, but with pigments that is always the case.

Other products that I recommend is the Face and Body foundation. Whilst, the fragrance is off-putting, the finish is beautiful and lasts all day. The texture is almost gel-like and lovely to blend. 

In Canada, Make Up For Ever can be found at Sephora. Additionally, head office is in Montreal and boutiques at some Sephora stores that carry pro products.

Thanks for reading and let me know, what Make Up For Ever products are your favourite?

xo Megs

Jennifer Lawrence Makeup Tutorial

I will admit it, I have a crush.....a girl crush on Jennifer Lawrence. Honestly, these days, who doesn't?! One can't help but like this young, talented and endearing actress.

She wears a smokey eye for most glamorous events and keeps it simple for other outings. This look is fabulous if you have a hooded eye. The keys to this look is to extend the wing, go lower on the bottom, go slightly above the crease and keep the upper lash liner thin.

Enjoy and take care,
xo Megs

Faves and Fails

Faves and Fails....

Faves
M.A.C Opulash Optimum Black Mascara
M.A.C. Pro Conceal and Correct
Revlon ColorStay Whipped Foundation
Embryolisse Lait Creme Concentre
Bioderma Sensibio
Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal
OCC Lip Tars
M.A.C. Lip Mixes
Caudalie S.O.S Vinosource
M.A.C. Prep and Prime Lip Conditioner
Lush Sweet Lips Exfoliant
Nuxe Reve de Miel
Vikings - History Channel
The Following- TV show
If I Had a Heart- Fever Ray

Fails:
Essence Fine Eyeliner
Physicians Formula Felt Eyeliner
NeoStrata Toning Solution 1
L'Oreal True Match Foundation
M.A.C In Extreme Dimension Mascara

Thanks for dropping by. I hope you enjoy.
xo Megs

Beauty Things I Suck At - TAG

Beauty Things I Suck At TAG

Shop and Share #2

Okay, I did it. I broke down and purchased the Make Up For Ever Flash Palette. Its gorgeousness and creaminess were calling my name, I couldn't stand it any longer. But I didn't stop there..... MUFE brow corrector, YSL Le Tient Touche Eclat, M.A.C. Japanese Maple and Sophisto lipsticks, Urban Decay De-slick setting spray, Butter London Thames and British Racing Green, Essence nail stamp, M.A.C. Pressed Pigment Light Touch and MUFE Aqua Black.

Reviews to come.......
Thanks for dropping by,
xo Megs

S/S 2013 Trends - Ethereal/ Healthy Skin

Listening to the strings of Vivaldi's Spring, transports me out of the greyness that is the lingering winter and inspires me to write about Spring and Summer Trends. Graphic liner and colours aside, the main focus seemed to be beautiful, glowing and radiant skin. Bring out your highlighter guys and gals because nothing is more youthful or more of a metaphor for spring, then shedding the winter layers of dullness to expose fresh and ethereal skin. Matthew Williamson, Marni, Theyskens' Theory and Balmain captured this perfectly. Along the same lines, is the ubiquitous bronzed glow. However, this season it is healthy and natural looking. Gone is the spray tan a la orange, it is replaced by a subtle refined bronze.

www.allure.com

While not looking difficult, this look does require the illusion of perfect skin. So taking care of it properly along with a great moisturiser, foundation and concealer are imperative. Following a good base, is placing a cream highlighter strategically. If you are going for a bronzed look, use cream bronzers as they blend into the skin better and thus create a natural look. Keep eye makeup to a minimum and use creams. Cheeks should also be restrained and creamy.

Suggested Products:

Make Up For Ever- Uplights
M.A.C. - Strobe cream, Pearl Cream Colour Base
Hourglass - Ambient Lighting Powder
Kevin Aucoin - Celestial Powder Candlelight
Chanel- Soliel Tan de Chanel
Rimmel - Wake Me Up Foundation
Revlon - Nearly Nude Foundation
Shiseido -Radiant Lifting Foundation
Benefit - Watts Up

What do you think of the dewy skin for spring and summer? What products do you enjoy using to look radiant?

Thanks for reading
xo Megs

P!NK Clump Crusher Eye Makeup Tutorial

P!NK Makeup Tutorial YouTube

Lately, CG's direction is funky, modern and edgy  - Nervo (Sister DJ's), Janelle Monae, and P!NK. I love P!NK's makeup for Cover Girl's Clump Crusher campaign. It is graphic, detailed and not the easiest thing to do. However, I am always up for a challenge, especially a makeup one ^_^


Products Used:
E/s - Lancome Volcano, Lancome Statuesque, M.A.C Crystal Avalanche, M.A.C Mylar
Liner - Rimmel Scandaleyes Black, M.A.C Fascinating,
Mascara - M.A.C False Lashes Maximum Black
Foundation - Revlon Nearly Naked in 130 Shell
Contour - Soleil Tan de Chanel
Blush - Bourjois Rose d'Or
Lipstick - M.A.C Innocence Beware
217 brush
Sigma E17
Real Techniques Deluxe Crease Brush
Real Techniques Contour Brush
Sigma F40
Lancome #12 Brush

Thanks for stopping by.
Cheers,
xo Megs

S/S 2013 Trend - Light Bright

I am just itching to pack my winter garb away and blow the dust off of my brighter and lighter spring clothes. However, inevitably winter isn't quite finished with us. Instead I am going to do it with S/S 2013 makeup trends.  Zesty lemon yellows, florescent pinks, and cyan blue painted nails, eyes, and lips took the spot light. Even prim and proper hair at Oscar De La Renta, was not immune to the bright hues of the catwalks.  You may ask yourself, how the frack do I follow this trend? The trick is to keep it to one feature and keep it simple.

Donna Karan: Image Source guestofaguest.com and cosmone.com

Kenzo
Image source: stylebistro.com

Oscar De La Renta
Image Source:://en.vogue.fr



michael kors- image source: www.vogue.co.uk

Here are some suggestions:
Lips:
Impassioned- M.A.C.
Neon Orange - M.A.C
Day Lily - Shiseido
Anime Lip Tar - Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics
Stormy Pink - Revlon
Any of the Colour Sensational Vivids - Maybelline

Eyes:
Chromographic Pencil  Magenta, Hi-def Cyan, Primary Yellow - M.A.C
Chromaline Magenta - M.A.C
Loose Pigment in LOL - Annabelle
Heart Throb Pink Mascara - Hard Candy
Scream Green Eye Pencil - Essence

Hair:
Colour Bug - Kevin Murphy
Hypercolor Brow and Hair Powder - Anastasia Beverly Hills

Nails:
Big Yellow Taxi - Ciate
Electric - Top Speed Revlon
Mojito - Ciate
Lime Catwalk - Bourjois
Nail Art Neon - Revlon

Bring on the colour baby, I am ready for it.
Take care,
xo Megs

Natural Cut Crease

Products Used:

M.A.C e/s Patina, Brun, Concrete, Era

Annabelle Ivory

M.A.C. Pearlglide Eyeliner Undercurrent

M.A.C Opulash Optimum Black Mascara

Lancome Artliner Noir

Step 1. Use Patina all over the movable eyelid

Step 2. Take a narrow angled brush and dip into Brun. Trace the natural socket line of the eye

Step 3. Go over that socket line just above it, using upward strokes with the same angle brush and Brun. Be careful not to smudge that line as we want it strong.

Step 4. Take Era and a dense blending brush and go right above the smudged Brun to transition into the brow bone

Step 5. Take Ivory to highlight the brow bone and inner corners

Step 6. Take Brun and line under the eyes and smudge.

Step 7. Join the under eye to the corner and make a sharp line up to the end of the socket line

Step 8. Blend that sharp line inwards slightly

Step 9. Take Undercurrent and tight line the bottom eyes and smudge onto the Brun eyeshadow

Step 10. Take the Noir Artliner and line the upper eyes and create a wing.

Step 11. Use Concrete to soften the liquid liner.

Step 12. Curl lashes and apply mascara

* if your lines are not crisp enough, take concealer and run it along the edge of the shadow and liner.

Thanks for taking a peek, I hope you like it.

xo Megs

Birthstone Makeup Series - February Amethyst Makeup

Birthstones Makeup Series- Amethyst

Products used

Foundation L'Oreal True Match W2
M.A.C Luster Drops Pink Rebel

Concealer Revlon Photoready Light, Rimmel Wake Me Up Very Light

Eyes M.A.C. e/s Seedy Pearl, Beautiful Iris, Fig.1, Malt, Crystal Avalanche
M.A.C. Paint Pot Soft Ocher

M.A.C. Pigment Violet

M.A.C False Lash Mascara

Dior Mystic Smokys Palette- Dark Purple

Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeliner Ransom

Contour NYX Taupe

Blush Lancome Aplum

Lip Sheen Supreme Asian Flower

Lip Pencil M.A.C. Stone, Subculture

Thanks for dropping by. I hope you enjoyed it.

xo Megs

Birthstone Makeup Series - January Garnet

Products Used

Foundation Revlon ColourStay 150 Buff

Contour Soliel de Tan

Blush Nars Sex Appeal

Eyes  e/s Nars Grenadines, Make Up For Ever Star Powder 950, Lancome Statuesque

Essence Super Fine Eyeliner Pen

Lips Nuxe Reve de Miel

Take care and thanks for taking a peek 

xo Megs

S/S 2013 Trends - Soft Mod at Marc Jacobs

image source: huffingtonpost.com

I would like to think it is that time of year where the birds are singing and daffodils are sprouting, but alas there is sludge on the pavement from last night's snowfall. *sigh*  So I decided to brighten my day by looking at makeup's spring trends.

New York Fashion Week's darling, Marc Jacobs, enlisted Francois Nars for the gentle mod/Edie Sedgwick look. He seems to be having a love affair with The Factory as evidence by his Andy Warhol makeup collection and now Edie. While mod can be sometimes difficult to pull off, Nars used softer and more subtle tones of grey/browns on some models. Keeping with the trends of strong brows, a boxed thick brow was implemented too. The overall impression is soft but graphic.

Use matte eye shadows to re-create/interpret this look. Nothing harsh....blend, blend, blend.
Products recommended:

• MAC e/s  Concrete, Copperplate, Coquette
• Burberry e/s Taupe Brown
• Revlon  ColorStay 16 hour Eye Shadow palette in Attitude or Addictive

Tell me what you think of S/S '13 trends.
xx Megs

Review: Rimmel's Wake Me Up Foundation

I have to say I was rather excited to hear Rimmel was finally blessing us with their much talked about Wake Me Up line of foundation, concealer and highlighters. I, of course, made a bee-line to their foundation. Let's see if it lives up to the accolades.

Pro's

So happy to see a freakin' pump -it's a small thing, but a nice thing. Easy to blend and gorgeous finish. I've used the Real Techniques Buffing Brush and a Beauty Blender, both work nicely. Most skin types can use this, except for the truly oily. This is a great winter foundation, as it brings life back into our lovely dull complexion. The price is decent for a mass product and I am sure it will go on sale too.

Con's
The colours. Why oh why can't they be a little more yellow toned? They lean too much on the neutral-pink side. Great for those who are cool, but not great for me. The fragrance, even though it is fresh, if you do not like perfumed bases, you will not like this one. Luckily it dissipates after a few seconds. So not much of a con...


Down and Dirty:
Price: $12.99 Cdn, price may vary
Finish: dewy
coverage: light to medium
Overall a great foundation.

What do you think of the new Rimmel products?
Take care,
xx Megs

Spring 2013 Pastel Aqua// Ginnifer Goodwin

I have become a BIG Ginnifer  Goodwin  style fan. She takes fashion/makeup chances and her skin is just flawless. Her milky white complexion lends itself to so many looks. However, her look at the Met Gala was one of my favourites, as it was stunning and so wearable.

Ginnifer Goodwin.

 Products Used:

Make Up For Ever eyeshadow in #150

Daniel Sandler Watercolour Blush in Cherub

M.A.C Tinted Lipglass in Talk to me Softly (any baby pink colour will do)

M.A.C Opulash Optimum Black Mascara

Make Up For Ever Uplight #12

Clinique Airbrush Concealer Neutral Fair

Nars Larger than Life Eyeliner in Black

Revlon Colourstay Foundation in #150 Buff

Wake Me Up, Scandaleyes and Kate.. Oh my!

The Red Coats are coming, the Red Coats are coming....errr wait a second, that's wrong.... but not entirely. Thanks be to Jesus we are having a British Invasion of sorts. Finally, Rimmel has said enough to us Canadians waiting for their Wake Me Up Foundation, Kate Moss Matte Lipsticks and Scandaleyes Liners!!!! Ding Dong! Will we have to wait for months until we get Apocalips too? Oh first world problems......

Scandaleyes Waterproof Kajal Kohl liners:
Hero colours:
Nude and Taupe

Image Source: uk.rimmellondon.com

Lasting Finish Matte Lipsticks by Kate Moss
Hero colour:
107- dark, luscious burgundy

Image source: uk.rimmellondon.com

image source: uk.rimmellondon.com

 I cannot wait to get my little paws on these products. A review to follow ^_^ Have you tried them? Tell me what you think.
xo Megs

Shop and Share - MAC, NYX, Revlon, Daniel Sandler, Embryolisse

After the makeup madness of Christmas, *sigh* I really didn't think I needed anything else. Maybe "needed" isn't quite the word......I didn't think I would desire anything else for a while. Guess I was wrong ;)

 

Shop and Share (Haul) - YouTube video

MAC - All Woman palette - from the Strong Collection. Limited Edition
Palette refills:

• texture- medium caramel brown
• brown down (being discontinued)- dark warm brown
• mystery- cool tone dark brown
• swiss chocolate- medium warm brown
• soft brown- light caramel brown

Lipsticks- Plum Dandy (frost) purple plum with shots of metallic silver and gold, Dare You (Cream Sheen)-sexy, ruby red creamy and hydrating

Revlon Colourstay foundation 150 Buff. Brilliant foundation. Great coverage and satin finish

NYX  Bush Taupe- great for contour, cool grey, purplish taupe

Real Techniques Eye Brushes- high quality for good price. Synthetic and wonderful for application and blending

Embryolisse Lait Creme Concentre- moisturiser for all skin types. Fantastic for cold weather

Daniel Sandler Watercolour Blush Flush and Cherub- watery cream blushes. Flush -berry pink, Cherub- light pink. Very natural on the skin

Maybelline Eyestudio Cream Liner - Lovely, lovely liner. Comparable to MAC's fluidline and Bobbi Brown's Gel liner. 

Let me know if you have tried any of the aforementioned. Any recent discoveries?
xo Megs

Green Smokey Eye

Thanks for dropping by. Here is a little look I put together and a peek at my freckles ^_^

Products used: 

MAC e/s Humid, Club, Sumptuous Olive, Gold Mine

Nars Larger than life Long Wear Eyeliner Black

Maybelline The Falsies Mascara

 

Take care,
xx Megs

Canadian Beauty Brands

Looking at my makeup collection, it is heavily loaded in MAC's favour (still  Canadian???). I decided to look at other bits of my collection to see how much of it was from here. Afterwards, I felt it was time to give kudos to Canadian beauty companies and their products.

Canadian Brands

Cake Beauty - their hand cream and body lotion (Desserted Island) smell heavenly and work very well on the skin.  They absorb nicely = no greasy feel. Yay.

Cargo - cosmetic company, known for their HD makeup, mascaras and foundations. Personally, I enjoy their eyeshadows and Plant Love Lipsticks

Marcelle - one of Canada's drugstore skin and cosmetics companies. Their BB Cream is wonderful and my favourite out of all them on the market. 

Annabelle - great trendy based drugstore company. It offers palettes, great eyeliners and lipsticks.

Quo - Shoppers Drug Mart in house brand. It has improve its quality immensely. Known for its brushes, the brand also works with Orly for nail tools and nail varnish. 

Cover FX - this hardworking little company has made some great strides and products. I am partial to their Natural FX, Skin Prep serum and primer, and the original Cover FX cream foundation. Good for the skin and great coverage. 

Lise Watier - the madame of them all. Well known in Canada, Lise Watier has grown into a competitive company. I use the Portfolio and the Metamorfix (liquid transformer)

Ojon - this hair company has a loyal following. Their line helps with damaged, dry and chemically treated hair. Hard to keep on the shelves. I use the Rare Blend Oil.

M.A.C - everyone knows this company from Toronto. In the 90's, Estee Lauder bought them, but they still remain true to Canada. I have too many products to list. Eyeshadows, Lipsticks, Viva Glam and so much more. 

Other Canadian Companies include:

Neostrata 
Moroccan Oil
B. Kamins 
Fusion Makeup
Bite Beauty
Balmshell 
Joe Fresh
Lit Cosmetics
Face Atelier
Vasanti 
Yaby 
Beaute
Stellarti
The Ordinary
Deciem
Nude Stix


Do you think Canadian Cosmetic and Beauty companies have what it takes? What is your favourite Canadian Hero product?
Take care,
xo Megs

2012 Favourites

2012 Beauty Favourites Part 1

2012 Beauty Favourites Part 2 - Makeup

Relaxing on my sofa and waxing philosophical about 2012, I found myself making a list of things I want to accomplish and change for 2013.  For instance traveling more, spending more time with friends, and eating less Jelly Belly jelly beans. Then there is my love and some say passion/obsession for makeup and beauty.  In 2012, this has only further intensified with starting my blog and new products on the market. So, without further procrastination, here are my favourites for this past year.

Hair

Hair- Kevin Murphy Angel Wash and Rinse

Treatment- Kevin Murphy Young Again

Face

Sunscreen- SkinCeuticals Physical fusion UV Defense

Mask/Exfoliator- Dermalogica Gentle Cream Exfoliant

Eye Cream- Nuxe Nirvanesque Contour des Yeux
Serum - Day - Korres Wild Rose Face and Eye
Serum - Night - Estee Lauder Advnace Night Repair

Face Cleanser - Korres White Tea Cleanser and Bioderma Sensibio
Primer - Urban Decay Primer Potion, Smashbox Photofinish
Foundation - Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua, Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum
Blush - Lancome Cedar Rose, Chanel Pink Cloud, Claris Multi-Blush Litchi
Eyeshadow - Patina, Copperplate, Coquette, Shroom, Brule
Eyeliner -MAC Coffee
Brows - Sephora Lash and Brow Gel

Mascara - Opulash Optimum Black

Liquid Eye Liner- Physicians Formula

Lips

Lip stick- MAC Gleam, Clarins Pink Lilac

Lip Liner - MAC Subculture

Lip gloss- MAC Florabundance

Tools

Real techniques brushes

Brush Guards

Shu Uemura Lash Curler

Beauty Blender Sponge

What are your 2012 favourites? Anything the same?
Take care,
xo Megs