B Stands for Beauty

BEAUTY.EDU: Tackling Beauty in the New Year: Metro Detroit

2012-01-19T09:29:00.005-05:00

Maybe I have been watching too much football, but I am all about tackling beauty in the new year! This is the sequel to Beauty Basics on a Budget! I had such a great time demonstrating beauty techniques and answering beauty questions in September so I thought lets do it again bigger and better this time!

Tackling Beauty in the New Year will focus on the following:

Improving your skin care regimen - Demonstrations using skincare and DIY products
Finding the right concealer - Tips and tricks to achieving bright well rested eyes!
Learning all about the new eye shadow trends for Spring/Summer - Yes! You can wear it!

Join me at the beautiful Historic McDonnell House on Sunday, February 19th for a afternoon of fun!

Just look at the top of the blog for the link to register or click here! Can't wait!

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

READER'S CHOICE: Ask me questions?

2012-01-15T10:57:00.001-05:00

I love it when people ask me questions about makeup, men's grooming, wigs, or hair! It is one of the reasons I started this blog so please please please ask me anything! It helps me with posts and to make sure I am providing information that people care about.

Thanks to a few friends asking me about the "white cloud underneath people's eyes," I came up with this blog post about concealer.

The next post will be about lip gloss and things to know when looking for the perfect lip gloss!

Send in your questions to brandalyn.fulton@gmail.com or inbox me on Facebook! I will try to get to them as soon as possible. As always thank you for your shares, comments, and for visiting www.bstandsforbeauty.com!

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

Broadway Week Starts January 16th

2012-01-09T10:30:00.001-05:00

People ask me all the time why did I move to New York...uh duh...for Restaurant Week! LOL! No seriously...

STOP what you are doing and go to www.nycgo.com to find more information about Broadway Week, Off Broadway Week and NYC Restaurant Week!

To everyone that has been contacting me about tickets to see The Lion King or Mary Poppins or any Broadway show you can get 2 for 1 tickets on a LOT of shows from January 16-February 4. Such a great deal!

P.S. I will be doing makeup at the Lion King from January 18-28th :-)

I got my list of things to do printed out. How about you?

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

Concealer Pound Fail (#FAIL): The REAL DEAL about Under Eye Concealer

2012-01-08T19:00:00.002-05:00

There are several ways to approach the use of concealer. I hope this post will help shed some light on a great product that seems to be misunderstood.

Under eye circles, natural discoloration, lack of sleep, hereditary darkness around the eyes are all reasons to use concealer. I encourage women to use concealer to take the focus away from the under eye area so people can see your eyes and if you are wearing it, eye shadow. Finding the right concealer is tricky. Concealer is usually more dense than foundation and is used to cover particular areas of the face that need heavier coverage. If you feel your foundation is not giving you enough coverage under the eyes, for pimples, around the mouth or other areas of concern on the face, you may want to consider using a concealer. The main two functions of concealer is to mask and to highlight. It is very difficult to find a great concealer for under the eyes. We have all seen the makeup blunder moments and below are a few steps to consider when finding the right concealer and how to apply it.

Please Note: I am using images to help educate and to help people visually relate to common issues found with using concealer. In no way does this serve as criticism to the celebrity or their makeup artist.

1. The basic rule of thumb is the color of your concealer should match the skin around the eye (preferably the cheek area). I use this as a guide so that when you blend the concealer down it blends effortlessly. This also can mean the color you use underneath your eye may not be the same color you use to cover a pimple on your chin.

2. Apply the concealer underneath the eye area in a stippling motion. Blending back and forth is doing just that; moving the product back and forth. Be sure to build up the product and press it into the skin so you are achieving maximum coverage. This also prevents using too much product which can make your application look cakey.

3. Finish the makeup. It is essential to blend the concealer until you can't see where it starts and stop. You may need to set with a powder or work the edges in with your foundation. You should never be able to see where the concealer ends.

4. Use proper skincare. Treat the eye area differently from the rest of your face. Apply eye cream before concealer application and at night to hydrate the skin. Many eye creams are packed with antioxidants to treat the skin and contain optical diffusers to help with discoloration.

5. Test the product by taking pictures with a flash. If your concealer looks too light in pictures, but ok in real life you are probably using the wrong powder to set it or too much powder. While translucent powder is easy to use, too much of certain powders can cause this problem. I recommend using powder with a shade slightly lighter than the concealer to set to avoid this from happening. If your concealer is just a smidgen too light, slightly gray or ashy looking, perhaps dusting a bronzer (with very little or no sheen) or powder to warm it up slightly might help.

6. Be careful with highlighting. YES! We all want to highlight underneath the eyes, but it is not ok for your concealer to be so light that its the first thing to capture everyone's attention. While it may seem trendy to have a beautifully contoured face with a nice highlight underneath the eye, do not force it. In the left picture above, her artist is not finished with the makeup. This is so you can see the under eye color her artist is using which is distinctively lighter than her skintone. A makeup artist or someone highly skilled in makeup may be able to use the right techniques to pull this off. Kim Kardashian uses a lot of makeup on the face and if you aren't going to do that be sure to use a more consumer friendly approach to applying your makeup. Just focus on a great makeup application and simply reducing the darkness or discoloration. All makeup techniques require balance. Notice with a great concealer application with highlight, there is usually some definition underneath eye with liner or bottom mascara. Also there is usually blush and/or bronzer applied too. Please do not try highlighting without doing the necessary steps to balance everything out.

7. It really doesn't matter what product you apply first. You can do concealer or foundation. When I apply makeup on my clients, I like to do foundation and then concealer so I can see what the foundation covers. I can add concealer only where it is necessary. On myself, it changes depending on how much makeup I am applying. Some days I am only putting on a little concealer to wake me up and mascara.

Whew!! I know that is a lot to worry about for one product! I am sure in the above photos this was an isolated situation. We ALL have our moments of being off because we are human. I hope this helps answer some of your questions regarding concealer. It takes time to find a great concealer and sometimes you might even have to change your concealers with your foundation when the seasons change. If you purchase something you don't like return it within the store's policy and work with an artist to find the right shade and powder combination. NO! Your concealer does not have to be a #fail!

If you have any questions, let me know!

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

ACTORS & MODELS: Should I Hire a Makeup Artist for my Headshot?

2012-01-08T10:05:00.000-05:00

If you ever find yourself asking this question, check out my 5 Advantages to hiring a Makeup Artist on Soul Kisses TV.

I was fortunate to work with Tamala, the founder of Soul Kisses TV, on Hairspray in Northport, NY and provide makeup for her most recent headshot!

I hope you find the information useful!

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

It is 2012! I CAN'T BELIEVE IT!

2012-01-07T16:05:00.004-05:00

I am so blessed and thankful to see another year! I spent New Years Eve in church! I could not have been in a better place! I am so thankful for 2011! It was a year of transformation. I am in awe with how I am growing personally and professionally. I can see, feel, and LOVE getting older, wiser, and becoming more Brandalyn :-)

With this post, I wanted to take a few moments to reflect on 2011. I have been doing this all week while creating a vision statement and vision board. I am a firm believer that sometimes you need to toot your own horn! It is so easy to say what you haven't done or what you didn't do. I am humble and also believe in just doing the work, but how can one move forward if you don't sit back and recognize what you have accomplished.

I completed a full season as Wig & Makeup Supervisor at the John Engeman Theater.
I taught Runway Makeup to LA makeup artists at the LA Makeup Show.
I became a member of a wonderful church in Harlem, First Corinthian Baptist Church.
I held my first seminar of Beauty Basics on a Budget in Detroit, Michigan.
I was featured on several websites including SherryBlossomBeauty.com and ScandalousBeauty.com.
I became a Makeup Swing on Broadway and learned makeup tracks at The Lion King and Mary Poppins.
I left my steady paying job to become a freelancer and didn't "really" know what was in store for me.
I worked at NYU as an Assistant Wig Designer and taught Makeup to Opera and Musical Theater students.
I served as the Makeup Consultant for the Broadway show, Lysistrata Jones and saw the show come together and provided makeup for Broadway Star, Patti Murin.
I assisted Broadway Wig Designer, Mark Adam Rampmeyer at the prestigious Papermill Playhouse and was Associate Wig Designer for White Christmas!
I am now on an assistants' list for a fabulous Makeup Agency in NYC.
I have dedicated more time to my blog, www.bstandsforbeauty.com, and YOU my readers.

I am probably leaving somethings out and I am typing pretty fast, but I have tears in my eyes because 2011 was a GREAT year and I am extremely thankful. My peers and colleagues are amazing. I get messages in my inbox ALL the time and constantly have people embracing me with genuine love and support! Lord knows I need it!

This year is going to be nothing less. I am turning it up a few notches and taking it to the next level. I have discovered a great deal about myself and where I would like to take my career. If you stick with me...YOU WILL SEE! There are a few goals I had in 2011 that I didn't get to, but life is not always about accomplishing goals. I have learned that it is about enjoying the journey and the process of growing. I encourage you to never lose sight of your goals but to also enjoy the moments that it takes to reach those goals. There are so many lessons to learn and experiences to truly treasure. I haven't lost sight of the goals I didn't get to achieve in 2o11 because I will keep at them in 2012!

My advice to anyone in Makeup Artistry or anyone striving to get to the next level:

Take care of yourself mentally! Feed your brain and soul with positive and prosperous thinking.
Its all about the follow up. Stay persistent and be strategic with your words and actions.
Be genuine. Do not set your goals based on someone else's success. Determine your own success.
It is a cliche, but it holds much truth..."THINGS TAKE TIME"
Do not be afraid to achieve your goals. Tackle your fears and move them out the way

I have so much to look forward to in 2012. I look forward to sharing with you! Happy New Year!

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

Good Skincare Excites Me...

2011-12-15T10:04:00.004-05:00

Hey all,

I've been super busy working on tons of stuff, but I had time to try this new cleanser. Check out why I am loving the Deep Penetrating Skin Cleanser from SKIN by Monica Olsen on This That Beauty Blog!

Also check out the details for Demeter Roll On Perfume Oil an affordable holiday stocking stuffer that smells delightful.

People ask me all the time what products to use so feel free to drop me a message or check out B Stands for Beauty or This That Beauty for amazing beauty product suggestions!

Until next time... Gotta Run!

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

Kissable Couture Lip Gloss Giveaway!

2011-12-08T13:35:00.000-05:00

Photo Courtesy: Sherry Blossom Beauty

AJ Crimson, makeup artist to Brandy, Estelle, Keisha Cole, Lauren London, Letoya Luckett, just to name a few, owns with Keisha Whittaker, the fabulous lip gloss line, Kissable Couture. I love these lip glosses and it never fails when I have one in my purse, someone always begs to take it (usually they win)!

I am giving away the 2011 Kissable Couture Holiday gift set which includes five beautiful shades: Dreams, Dylan, Johnny, Honesty, and Forest!

A closer look...

Just post a comment below saying why you love lip gloss with your email address! I will select a winner on December 20th! Happy Holidays :-)

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

Going GREEN with my Makeup and using Korres Anti Aging Eye Primer

2011-12-08T09:30:00.001-05:00

Lately, I've been using Korres Anti Aging Eye Primer and I must say it works! Let me explain, what "it works" means in Brandalyn's world. The basic function of an eye primer is to even out the texture of the eyelid so eye shadow goes on smooth and usually more vibrant (gives something for the shadow to adhere to other than skin). Some primers also prevent eye shadow creasing. Yes, eye shadows can crease or wear down throughout the day depending on your skin chemistry.

As a society we are becoming more educated and consumers want affordable organic, all-natural cosmetic products. Korres is a company that is passionate about homeopathic beauty and scientific research. I was thoroughly impressed with the primer because it made my eye shadow go on smooth, made the skin on my eyes feel good, didn't crease, and it lasted all day (my all day is about 15 hours)!

I'm a few weeks away from 28 :-) and I need all the anti-aging I can get!! The oak and quercetin extracts are antioxidants that reduce the signs of aging (fine lines and wrinkles). I am huge fan of anything that will improve skin texture and this product has been doing that for me.

The primer also has a slight apricot or peach tone and can be used underneath the eye. This is a new function for eye primer to assist with the longevity of products underneath the eye. The tone of the primer also helps cancel out discoloration around the eye. Multi-functional, smart, extremely innovative products will be the new thing for makeup!

So my friends, if you are going green and are trying to incorporate more natural products in your makeup bag, explore Korres. You can find Korres and the Anti-Aging Eye Primer at Sephora and Ulta for $21.

Have you tried a primer? What do you currently use?

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

I'm Contributing to This That Beauty Blog!

2011-12-05T16:24:00.009-05:00

Please check out www.thisthatbeauty.com! I will be contributing several times a month to this fabulous blog owned by Felicia Walker Benson. Get to know Felicia and This That Beauty here.

I met Felicia in 2010 at the LA Makeup Show and I have been an avid reader of This That Beauty ever since.

My first post is live reviewing Cetaphil RestoraDerm™ Body Wash . Every post will have a Pro Makeup Artist Tip attached to it. There is a great deal of information regarding winter skin care as well. Be sure to check it out and tell all of your friends!

I will definitely let you know when posts go live! Read on...

ThisThatBeauty Reviews: Cetaphil RestoraDerm™ Skin Restoring Body Wash

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

Working with Stila Cosmetics

2011-12-02T16:52:00.004-05:00

I am very excited to announce that I will be working with Stila Cosmetics as a freelance artist. I have been wanting to work with them for some time and I am finally getting the chance! I love the brand and their mission statement, "Makeup as individual as your style!"

Come visit me at the Sephora - 5 Times Square tomorrow from 2-9pm. I will be available for makeup demos and to teach everyone about this amaaazing brand!

Other days I will be working with Stila Cosmetics this month are below:

Sephora - 76 Broadway on December 9th from 12-7 PM

Sephora - 5 Times Square on December 15th from 12-7 PM

Macy's Herald Square on December 17th from 12-6 PM

I mentioned some of my favorite Stila products in another post you can find here. If you want an amazing eye shadow palette for the holidays, check out the In The Light Palette. It has all the basic colors you need to create a natural eye and smoky eye! It even comes with a Smudge Stick. This palette has over $100 worth of shadows and is only $39.

I am so excited....new beginnings :-D

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

My Fav FACE Atelier Cosmetics Product Giveaway!

2011-11-29T13:37:00.008-05:00

FACE atelier is one of my favorite makeup companies. I like to say that FACE atelier and I have grown up together. I started working with the Canadian-based makeup company on different occasions in 2008. The line has grown so much and has truly helped me with my makeup artistry. They are well known for their silicone based liquid foundations, but they also have a full line of color cosmetics that are great for everyday women as well as makeup artists!

I am so excited to be doing a fabulous giveaway of some of my favorite color products!

One lucky person will receive:
FACE Atelier Facade in Arabesque
FACE Atelier Facade in Godiva
FACE Atelier Lipstick in Pink Sizzle
FACE Atelier Lipstick in Red Fuchsia
FACE Atelier Lip Glaze in Prim Rose

A few reasons why I love these....

I love Red Fuchsia because you can NEVER go wrong with a Classic Red Lip!
Prim Rose at one point was one of their best selling Lip Glazes online. It is the perfect natural color lip gloss for so many skin tones! I wear it often and definitely have one in my kit!
The Facade is a silicone gel blush that dries down like a powder! I also like to use it on my lips for a soft lip stain. Godiva is amazing for a deep wine color, but can be applied lightly! So pretty!

All you have to do is comment on this post saying, "I want Brandalyn's Fav FACE Atelier Products!" You can enhance your chances of winning by sharing this post on Facebook or retweeting it on Twitter (make sure you tag me)! US or Canadian entries only.

I will select a winner on December 15, 2011. So you can receive just in time for the Holidays!

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

Shop like a Pro at The Makeup Pop Up Shop in NYC!

2011-11-28T09:00:00.002-05:00

Shop like a Professional Makeup Artist on Friday, December 2 (5pm -10pm) and Saturday, December 3(10am - 6pm) in New York City at The Makeup Show's Holiday Pop-Up Shop! I will definitely have my face in the place on Friday sometime after 8 pm. Tickets are only $20 per person. Get access and pro discounts to the brands top makeup artists love and use!

I will definitely be stocking up on some of my favs...

Kissable Couture Honesty Lipgloss

Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics Hydrating Mineral Perfecting Powder

Mario Badescu Herbal Hydrating Serum

Stila Cosmetics Tinted Moisturizers & Eyeshadows

Dermalogica Pre Cleanse

Kevyn Aucoin Gossamer Radiant Diaphanous Powder

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Pris Highlighter

...and I can't wait to learn about other products and network with industry friends!

Purchase your ticket online on or before Cyber Monday, November 28th (TODAY) and be entered to win a Beauty Grab Bag!

See you Friday!

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

Jennifer Hudson & Katy Perry Caught My Eye at the American Music Awards!

2011-11-25T03:13:00.007-05:00

I am little late, but wanted to let you know that Jennifer Hudson and Katy Perry caught my eye at the American Music Awards. If you follow my blog, I rarely get a chance to watch awards shows when they happen, but always find time to browse the photos of the Red Carpet. Luckily, I acquired a DVR a few months ago so yes, I do get to watch them "eventually."

I really liked Jennifer Hudson's look from head to toe at the American Music Awards 2011. Her makeup is one of my favorite looks which is a subtle smoky, defined eye and a bold lip. As we approach the holidays, I would encourage all women to try this look for an evening out or for a holiday party. I love the L'Oreal Paris Infalliable Le Rouge Lip Color in Enduring Berry. It looks just list this color and I wear it all the time! Its long wearing, but not drying to the lip.

Seems like Katy Perry's Red Carpet dress wasn't favored by some, but I am loving this dress from Vivienne Westwood. I love Katy Perry's style (majority of the time) because its different and type of weird that I just love! My motto is, "if its considered ugly, I will wear it." I am not saying her dress or overall look is ugly, but its definitely different and quite tasteful. Her hair color looks great with her porcelain skin! Hey, not expecting most to agree with me, but all in all I liked her look and I am always a fan of her makeup.

Her cat eye is always on point! To achieve this, I suggest the Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Liner, $20 or Stila Smudge Pot (gel liner), $20. Both products work well and solely depend on if you prefer to use liquid or something with a little more consistency like gel. The applicator of the Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Liner makes wing tip application super easy. If you have any questions about wing tip liner, ask away...I can help!

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

PHOTOS: Macy's 85th Thanksgiving Parade & Priscilla Queen of the Desert!

2011-11-25T01:35:00.012-05:00

My Parade Pass & Makeup station provided by the show!

This morning I made my way at 4:45 AM to Times Square to be apart of the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade in New York City. I worked with the cast and crew of the Broadway musical, Priscilla Queen of the Desert and helped with makeup. They performed on 34th street in front of Macy's and it aired on NBC!

Below are a few pics of such a fun morning!

Some of the fabulous wigs in the show!

Josh executing fierce makeup and Jack Curtain,Wig Supervisor finessing the wig before the performance!

I had the pleasure of doing Amaker Smith's makeup. He was one of the few that I worked on!

It was very cold, but we were fortunate to have trailers and we waited inside of Macy's before the performance. Costumes...AMAZING!

Cast performing "I Will Survive'

On the bus back to the theater I was able to catch a good photo of one of the floats!

This was an amazing opportunity! Did anyone watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade?

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

Being Ready When The Clock Strikes: My First Time Doing Makeup at The Lion King

2011-11-13T23:13:00.001-05:00

We live in a society where everything is instant. It is so easy to want, want, and want some more. One of my goals upon moving to New York is that I wanted to be a swing on Broadway. I remember being so anxious! Within my first year of moving to New York, I was in the middle of my internship at The Juilliard School and I was so anxious to get on The Great White Way. Little did I know that no matter how much you want something, everything works with the powers of the universe and EVERYTHING happens when it is suppose to happen. To become a swing on Broadway, you must drop your resume off at stage doors. I did this every month for over a year.

I remember being frustrated that I had not heard from anyone. I remember questioning myself, my abilities, and really being negative. Sometime in March, I started to change my thinking and my perspective on things. I believe in God and started to focus my energy on positive things and being thankful for everything that happens, good and bad. I started to believe that when the time is right I will get what I want and need. I was contacted by the Makeup Supervisor at the beginning of August.

Halloween Party backstage with Alex and Christina. They made me feel right at home!

I finished my first week at The Lion King at the end of October and I was totally prepared! I was able to do the job...and do it well. It was very intense and I knew how to handle working under pressure and do a good job. I took instruction well and was able to learn and enhance my own technique from this experience. I remember hearing the sweet music from the show while running to my quick makeup change and feeling, "THIS is what I had been waiting for and it could not have happened any sooner!"

Hear an impromptu talk about my 1st experience briefly on the Beauty Talk Radio Show with Celebrity Artist Denise & Janice Tunnell. Its around the 31:00 minute mark.

Listen to internet radio with Illusions Cosmetics on Blog Talk Radio

I remember sitting in a Master Class with Sam Fine back in 2008 and he said, "Are you ready for the type of jobs that you want?" I was ready, but I had to be patient. I was so focused on my goal, I forgot to enjoy the time I was getting the experience and building my confidence, skills, and my resume. It is perfectly alright to have goals and dreams, but be sure you are putting in the work and gaining the proper experience so when it is YOUR TURN, you are READY when the clock strikes!

I am still learning, still growing, and getting ready for the next opportunity. I am excited that I have learned the value and reward of patience. I hope this helps any artist or anyone that is waiting for something to happen. Stay encouraged and enjoy the journey it takes to be prepared and ready!

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

New Broadway Musical: Lysistrata Jones, Previews start TODAY!

2011-11-12T13:33:00.004-05:00

I am excited about the new Broadway musical, Lysistrata Jones. Previews start today, Novemeber 12th at the Walter Kerr Theatre. I was asked to do makeup for Ms. Patti Murin who plays Lysistrata aka Lyssie J for the commercial posted below. I have heard that the commercial can be seen on NBC, CBS, and ABC (yay!).

Everyone loved the makeup look so much that I was brought on to be a Makeup Consultant for the show. I was the assistant to the Wig Designer and the Wig Supervisor for the week of tech rehearsal. I also purchased makeup for Lyssie J, taught her how to apply it all while learning and experiencing the creation of a show happening on the "Great White Way!"

To learn more about the show and its journey from the Dallas Theatre Center to Off Broadway and now Broadway, click here .

For discount tickets visit www.broadwayoffers.com, call 212-947-8844, or visit the Walter Kerr Theatre Box Office at 219 W. 48th st. between Broadway and 8th ave. Previews begin today and the Opening Night is December 14th!

Let me know if you see the show :-)

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

Tom Ford Beauty launches at Bergdorf Goodman!

2011-11-01T23:31:00.006-04:00

There has been a lot of buzz about Tom Ford, former fashion designer at Gucci, launching his beauty line. It is true...BEAUTY is great business! I will admit that I have become a little jaded when it comes to new makeup (It has to be absolutely fabulous!). I don't get excited like I used to, but something about Tom Ford excites me so I went to Bergdorf Goodman to meet him and check out his new cosmetics line that launched November 1st.

He exudes such class and refinement and this was exemplified at the Tom Ford Beauty event. After looking at the collection, beautiful male models dressed in Tom Ford-like suits with perfectly placed hair escorted attendees to meet Mr. Ford. He had small talk with many admirers and also signed the products that they purchased. Of course, I didn't have him sign my True Coral lipstick because I will DEFINITELY be wearing mine :-)

I will definitely purchase some more products in the future, but for $48 this True Coral was a gift to myself for accomplishing a life goal (another blog post).

My main reason for coming was to not only meet Mr. Ford, but to check out the Traceless Stick Foundation retailing at $78. I have found that many high end cosmetic lines totally miss the mark with foundations for women of color. Unrealistic shades, not enough options, or completely non existent are some of the major issues I have found. Tom Ford Beauty has 12 shades and they look amazing. I swatched number 11-Warm Almond (my shade) and number 12-Chestnut!

#12 Left, #11 Right

I spoke with Mr. Ford and thanked him for coming out with deeper shades of foundation and also for having a color line that "really" has color! He said that it is important to have a wide range of shades and, "We will be going deeper. We are just getting started!" Check out the photo of me wearing the number 11!

Note: My lip color is my own custom made OCC lip tar combo (ask me about it!!) Mr. Ford gave me a compliment ;-) After swatching the True Coral Lipstick on my hand, I just dabbed it on my cheeks. FAB, right!!! Also I tend to go lighter on my foundation because I only wear it in necessary areas, particularly around my eyes and nose, and set with powder

You can check out the collection only at Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman!

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

Drugstore Beauty Love Affair

2011-10-25T13:33:00.014-04:00

I wouldn't consider myself a product junkie, but I tend to try different products (ALL THE TIME) out of curiosity and to increase my product knowledge. I will admit if I go to a Target, CVS, Duane Reade, or Walgreens with a beautiful, very tantalizing looking Beauty Department it is hard for me to resist buying something just to try. The CVS Beauty Club, Buy One Get One free or half off deals are the best when trying out something new. Sometimes I buy stuff and I hate it or may find that it does not live up to its claims. Other times, I find things and are surprisingly impressed!

I am having a beauty love affair with with Rimmel London Volume Accelerator Mascara with Avec Volume Boosting Complex.

I love this mascara because the brush really allows the product to fully coat the lashes. It does say Volume Accelerator, but I find this mascara to be more of a defining, separating, and lengthening product. I like to apply 3-4 coats and that gives me what I need. My lashes are non existent without mascara, but the right mascara will have people asking me, "do you have on lashes?"

Wet n Wild makeup has been in my life over half my life! This isn't a new product, but I consistently find myself telling others about the Wet n Wild Mega Eyes Creme Liner. There have been times when I leave the theater late and have to be on set extremely early the next morning. I have been reorganizing my kit at 1 am and realize I didn't replace a, b, or c. I discovered this at a 24 hour Duane Reade one early morning. It works and last all day! I was shocked! I constantly find myself buying it for myself now...because it works! I do not recommend using the brush that comes with it. There are better options out there, but in a pinch with the right precision, one can work it out!!

I am starting to be known as the girl with the bold lip. It appears that I love this trend no matter if its "trending" or not. My latest obsession is the Color Sensational Lipstick from Maybelline. They have tons of options (54 to be exact)! My favorites are Red Revolution and Fifth Avenue Fuchsia! The display is pretty easy to navigate. All the shades are split up by color family and this product was relatively cheaper ($2 less) than some of the Revlon and L'oreal options (just sayin')! This lipstick felt moisturizing on my lips and had a nice sheen, but not too glossy. It had lots of pigment so lasted on the lips even while I was drinking. Its is not long wearing, but a nice stain remained even as my night wore on.

What are some of your drugstore favorites? I can go on for days....

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

Sneak Peak...Behind the Scenes for Mania Magazine

2011-10-23T01:36:00.006-04:00

Last week I worked with America's Next Top Model Eugena Washington in Brooklyn. The beauty shoot was for a Nigerian magazine called Mania Magazine. I enjoyed working with Olivia (photographer) and Tosin (stylist)! Such a great team! I will let you know when the magazine launches just in time for the holidays! Stay Tuned :-)

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

Destress Your Skin with a Great Moisturizer - Dr. Jules Nabet Zen Attitude Cream (Video)

2011-10-19T17:05:00.010-04:00

I was selected by Beauty Stat to be a Consumer Ambassador. My responsibility was to try a beauty product for several weeks and to report via video a review.

Dr. Jules Nabet is a world renowned aesthetics doctor with skin care clinics in Paris and London. He is best known for his research in anti aging and hormone replacement ingredients. In May of 2011, Dr. Nabet released his skincare line in the United States.

I tried the Zen Attitude Cream courtesy of www.beautystat.com.

Check out the video for a quick review! For detailed ingredients, read below.

I encourage you all to check out www.drjulesnabetskincare.com. Until November 30th, you can receive 30% off your order by entering ILOVENABET at the checkout.

For those that know me very well, I am very big on ingredients. I also love when dermatologist's have makeup/skincare lines because I am always running to the dermatologist to stay current on my skincare regimen. I also like to have some medical insight on skincare products to enhance my own knowledge for my clients.

Dr. Nabet's anti aging research is important to me because who doesn't want to look young. Obviously, we all will age, but we should do it gracefully, right? The Zen Attitude Cream is apart of the revitalization group of his skincare line. It includes ingredients such as glycerin, coconut oil, soy and yam which are key to rejuvenation and maintaining a smooth appearance. When using this product my skin felt supple and renewed.

I am extremely busy and I stay hydrated by drinking lots of water and tea. The Zen Attitude Cream helped my skin to stay hydrated even while travelling. As mentioned in the video, it includes sodium hyluaronate which is an extreme form of penetration and moisture retention, but please do not depend solely on your skincare to hydrate your skin. Make sure you are eating good foods and water to hydrate your skin from the inside. Vitamin E and Vitamin F are included to destress the skin. There are so much free radicals and environmental factors that can stress the skin and I love that the cream is rejuvenating, calming, and most of all moisturizing to the skin.

The Zen Attitude Cream was originally designed for women over 40, but it is most effective at every age. It is ideal for busy people as well as travelers. However, you must check your bag because this product is too large to carry on. I would suggest moving the cream into a smaller container.

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

Announcing Beauty Basics on a Budget in Metro Detroit

2011-09-05T01:29:00.008-04:00

I am so excited to announce my first makeup seminar that will be held in Southfield, Michigan. I enjoy teaching others and encouraging women to embrace makeup. This is an opportunity for women to bring their basic makeup collection and learn tips and tricks with what you have. Learn my common sense approach to makeup and how you can have a stunning look with products that are economical. We are educated consumers and when it comes to beauty and cosmetics, one does not need to spend a lot of money to achieve a glamorous look.

Try beauty trends for the fall and ask me all your beauty questions. You will walk away with a better understanding of your makeup collection and products on the market to achieve everyday looks. There will be demonstrations, discussions, and makeup giveaways all evening.

The seminar will be held Thursday, September 22 from 6-8 pm at the Hampton Suites in Southfield, Michigan. All seminar details and event registration can be found here.

Hope to see you there!

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

Life Changing Conversation with Celebrity Makeup Artist, Sam Fine

2011-09-03T16:25:00.011-04:00

Photo: Genevieve Santos

I conducted an interview with Sam Fine, Makeup Artist to Iman, Monique, Queen Latifah (just to name a few), over a year ago and it was never published... (so disappointed). Have no fear! I was able to retrieve it and wanted everyone to read it.

This is not just an interview about makeup or how to work with celebrities. This conversation changed my life and I know it will have a great influence on your life!

Sam was just appointed as Creative Director of Fashion Fair Cosmetics and just like it states in the interview, 2011 is the year for many great things!

Sit back, enjoy, and please share!

Brandalyn: You’ve been pretty busy with promoting your new DVD, which is amazing by the way. I am dying to know when the next video is going to come out?

Sam: I was talking to management today and was saying I need a minute to regroup. I think it is so important for us to take a little down time to digest what the audience has to say. This is in no way to say I’m not going to do another DVD. I have had several appearances. I’m about to go to Dallas and just came back from Jamaica and Trinidad doing appearances to promote the DVD. I’m taking time to digest what people are saying and what they want from me. I think it is always wise to refuel and to be able to come back fresh. I’m excited about doing another project. As opposed to feeling put upon just having to do something else.

Brandalyn: So is your next project going to be another DVD or book?

Sam: I’m actually going to be doing everything.

Brandalyn: (GASP because of excitement!!)

Sam: As I approach my 20th year in beauty I’m thinking and it is in discussion for me to do another book, DVD as well as a cosmetic line. I’m looking forward to retiring. 2011 will bring a lot of this to fruition. I let the universe bring things to me and I try to see where it goes and try to flow with it. I am a freelancer and you know how it is. I don’t know what my next week, next month, or year is going to look like. I try to fill in the gaps with these projects.

Brandalyn: You are looking to forward to celebrating 20 years as a makeup artist. What are some of the greatest lessons you have learned in your earlier days of success?

Sam: My best friend Joseph Hampton is 55 years old and he taught me makeup. I think when you have a great mentor they really help you to pace yourself. I think his age in comparison to mine entering at a young age has helped me to understand to have a certain level of patience. Patience as it pertains to things coming to you whether that be clients you want, assignments you want to work on, books, or a cosmetics line. These are all things that have come to me at different times. I have had plenty of cosmetic contracts that have not worked out. I don’t push for anything to make it anything happen. I try to respond to everything in a way that I don’t make it happen but I have to respond to it. When I say that I mean I’m allowing the universe to bring things to me; to let me know if this is what I should be doing.

Everything has its time. If you lose a client, that means there is one who is waiting in the wings to work with you. There is always something around the corner. As a freelancer you learn that you don’t know when you’re going to work or how you are going to work, who you going to work with. Everyday is a surprise to me and patience gets me through each day.

Brandalyn: I know the Sam Fine signature! I can flip through a magazine or on the red carpet and know that Sam Fine did the makeup. Explain your approach to makeup and what I call the Sam Fine signature.

Sam: It is so personal. A lot of the time you don’t even know you’re doing it. It is your perspective that comes out everyday when you work. When people look at my work and say there is a signature to it, that’s just my perspective on beauty. I like to look back at my work and see Classic Beauty. When I work with Iman, Vanessa Williams, Tyra Banks, or Monique I want to look back at my work and feel that it was just as beautiful as I remember it. I don’t want it be look like ‘oh, that was so hot’ during that time. I want to look back and say WOW! I was really painting. I love that lash! My basics don’t change much. When you’re doing clients for Good Morning America, a commercial for Weight Watchers with Jennifer Hudson, a music video with Vanessa Williams, or television segment with Iman these have to be beautiful standard looks that translate time and market. When I say market I mean I don’t people in New York just to get it, but I also want my people in Missouri, Alabama, Mississippi, and Chicago to be able to look at my work and still feel it is beautiful. My signature is something hopefully all people can appreciate so if that means you know me by my brows, lashes, attention to detail, skin, perfecting the canvas or nude lip that’s perfectly sculpted and glossed then so be it. These are all apart of the way that I view my sisters and the way that I want to be remembered in my legacy as a makeup artist.

Brandalyn: I must say that you are one of the most genuine and down to earth celebrities. I really appreciate you. Every time I hear you speak it brings me chills because it is so touching. Being relatable is so important and I can see that in your makeup style and it shows in your personality as well. Your response to the question is so amazing and so true to what I have grown to learn and know about you. You mentioned Iman and Jennifer Hudson and you have such a long list of high profile clients, who is next on the list to receive the Sam Fine touch? Who have you yet to work with? Who are you dying to work with?

Sam: I think less about the next client and more about my career. When you have almost 20 years under your belt and clients like Naomi Campbell, Patti Labelle, Monique, Vanessa Williams, Destiny’s Child, Beyonce, Kelly Rowland, Tyra Banks, Iman, Aretha Franklin, Eartha Kitt, Gladys Knight, etc. honestly, I look forward to the rest of my career and bringing more of what I do to the masses. I think that will bring my career full circle. I started behind the cosmetic counter and I look forward to ending up their again with my name on the product this time. I have to say I don’t think about the clients anymore. It is not important to me because I can’t control who may begin to use another artist. I allow the universe to continue giving me opportunities as it has in the past. I think its great to have goals. My goals have now changed. I am 40 years old as of last year and with 20 years in this industry I have been to the mountain and back. I look forward to doing something different and challenging myself in a new way.

I can’t say that means a new client or new music video. There will always be a new and different celebrity, Oscar winner, Grammy winner, Emmy winner. What makes it different for me is being able to challenge myself in different ways. Perhaps going into product development, marketing; looking at a cosmetic line and really having fun relating to the consumer in which my artistry has affected.

Brandalyn: That’s great. I started in makeup when I was 19 very close to when you started and I can’t even imagine where I am going to be 20 years in the industry. You have done so much within these 20 years and with your interest in Product Development, I can’t help but to remember you creating the Black Opal Cream Stick Foundation. Of course it is still a staple in artists’ kits but what other drug store products can you recommend to women?

Sam: Let me put it out there that everyone wants to know what I use. It is not the product its how you use it. That why I didn’t mention products on my DVD because I want people to think and try like artists do. Of course it will give you a leg up to know I use Queen Collection Bronzers, Liquid Makeup, Crème to Powder Foundation. I use a ton of Iman Cosmetic products and swear by L’Oreal Voluminous Mascara. If you follow me on twitter @SamFineBeauty or Facebook: Sam Fine Beauty. I am very true to the brands I represent. I am very honest about using drugstore brands as I am about using Department Store brands. I love NARS eye shadows and CARGO blush. It is not secret. All you have to do is follow me. If I had to make a list of what cosmetics I use, I think every brand has something to offer. There are things I am still discovering. I go shopping and will pick up 4-5 glosses, powders, or bronzers. I try it and find that it might become one of my favorites. That is how I found CARGO blush. I discovered YSL powders from another artists’ recommendation. You have to be open and learn how to experiment. Have a vision for your beauty in mind so you can go to any store or online and translate that to your makeup kit.

Brandalyn: It is really important you talk about the approach and thought process to makeup. Once people start following you on twitter or FB and get the information on what you use they can then go pick up the DVD to how it really works and to use what they have. That’s what is nice about the instructional DVD! It is short and sweet but it breaks things down and encourages women to embrace makeup. I think it is important as a makeup that we are not only here to put makeup on people but to be genuine to encourage women to try new things.

Sam: Thank you! Thank you so much! Most important thing to me about being a celebrated artist is that giving something to the people who celebrate you. We need more good information and education. Everyone thinks that Halle Berry’s foundation is the one to have because she is beautiful and has great skin, but what about the women who does have some acne scaring? What about the woman who has a little discoloration or the woman who thinking about cost and doesn’t want to spend $40-50 on a foundation? I’ve always felt that it was my responsibility as a celebrated artist to make sure to give the information and product knowledge. You talk about being encouraging and inspiring. Those are the words that make me feel most proud. That’s why I do a DVD to let people know it is not as hard as it seems to participate in this wonderful finishing called makeup. You have to realize that so many of us don’t have makeup role models. We’ve only have had makeup role models in the past 10-15 years that have become a bit more relatable. We are just learning about our mothers who didn’t have makeup that was offered to them or weren’t using makeup as much. We have so many more options which also makes it very confusing. When I hear that I am empowering and inspiring it means a lot because that is what the DVD was created to do.

Brandalyn: You mentioned that you worked at a makeup counter when you first moved to New York. I started working at makeup counter when I was in college and I did a complete detour as to what I initially thought I was going to be doing with my life. What would you be doing if you were not a makeup artist? I get that question all the time.

Sam: When you enter an industry such as freelance you have to believe in yourself because you just don’t know what tomorrow may bring. When you learn to believe in yourself you empower yourself to do a number of things. I’ve become a writer. I have learned how to write better and convey my thought through this industry. I’ve learned so much about marketing, budgets, and how it relates to product and marketing campaigns. I guess I would still be in this business probably in marketing because I find it very interesting how products reach people and how they become loyal to certain brands. I find it very interesting how women buy and what they think about different brands. Psychology is very interesting which is a huge part of marketing. If anything, I think this industry has helped me to see how many more jobs exist that I did not know existed. I could have easily been apart of it had I known about them when I was in high school. That’s why I talk and do seminars, books, DVDS because I really want to expose more kids to the fact that we (makeup artists) are doing great things and make money too. This is a career. This is not a hobby. You get people that want to do a “little makeup.” What is a little makeup, because this is a career for me. I am sure if I were in school I would have had Doctorate in Makeup Artistry by now. When I talk to people about doing makeup I feel like this is something I want you to understand is a career like anything else. There is no clear route to it. We don’t go to school and come out working with Revlon, Covergirl, and celebrity clients.

Brandalyn: It’s a journey to get to that point.

Sam: There is a journey to every career. When you look at doctors and lawyers that are highly sought out and highly specialized, it’s the same thing. I don’t think people understand the arts because its so subjective. I feel so empowered having come in contact with tour managers, bus manager, entertainment lawyers, marketing professionals. So many opportunities lie ahead of me. I don’t plan on changing careers but I want to incorporate so much of what I’ve learned. I’ve watched models go back to school. I would love to go back to Art school, which is why I came to NYC. I would love to take up art history and start sketching again. I am leaving it open. I don’t get that question much, but I will tell you that the industry and exposure has helped me to see a number of things I could’ve been great at had I pursued them.

Brandalyn: It s great to hear you talk about these things. Society doesn’t understand the arts and creative professions like they do doctors, lawyers, or some other collegiate based career. I know there are some college programs out there involving makeup, but getting the exposure, experience, taking everything in is part of the educational process of being an artist. One more question I want to wrap up with what really matters to you! At the end of the day, what really matters to Sam Fine, the person, Sam Fine the artist?

Sam: At the end of the day I have to go home happy – happy with myself; knowing that I gave my best to whatever it was I did. I hate to bring up the age thing again, but 40 is really middle age. You think about life expectancy being 80-90 year old. I used to stress out about so much like oh my God I could have done better. I still think about it, but now able to let it go; in a way where I can say I did my best and I’m going to move on to the next thing. My best always changes and that’s the one thing to remember. What is most important to me is my happiness. I’ve seen people in this business who drives themselves crazy. They are trying to stay on top, whatever that means, trying to get the next hot client, or just trying to achieve something. It is important to move forward in your career but there is a part of this journey that you have to allow it flow and I’m looking forward to the next chapter.

Jane Fonda wrote a book and she talks about her life in chapters and moving towards her final act or final chapter. I think about being happy more and stressing less about things that really are at the end of the day are not as important as my happiness. We work hard for success and material things but they really don’t bring you joy and happiness. It can bring you temporary joy, but joy and happiness lives within. I know it sounds hokey, but it is true. It’s a certain peace you have within yourself that you can say I’m enough! I am not just saying that. Reaching the age of 40 and 20 years in this business has helped me to feel that deeply - that I am enough! If I never work with whomever, you can fill in the blank, I still have lived a life that I am happy with. I am not waiting for something to be happy or waiting for something to happen. I am living in the present.

I hope you enjoyed this conversation with Sam Fine. View his work at www.samfine.com! I would love to hear your thoughts about this interview below.

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

"Beauty meets Broadway" for Fashion's Night Out with J. F. Lazartigue

2011-09-03T10:41:00.006-04:00

Join hair extrodinaire, J. F. Lazartigue on Thursday, September 8th for a celebration of beauty and theatrical greatness! Meet members from the cast of Sister Act at the Lazartique boutique and also win tickets to see the show.

J.F Lazartigue is a luxury world renowned hair brand and is very conscious about hair care. Come visit their studio on Madison Avenue. Some proceeds will be given to Impact Broadway, a NYC youth theatrical program for African Americans and Latinos.

See you there!

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.

Be Backstage during NYFW with Mehron Makeup

2011-08-31T10:21:00.006-04:00

Mehron Professional Makeup is the Makeup Sponsor for Falguni & Shane Peacock Show for New York Fashion Week this season! Win a chance to hang out backstage with Mehron Makeup Team Friday, September 9.

To enter all you have to do is follow Mehron on Twitter @MEHRONmakeupNYC and Tweet...

Dear @MEHRONmakeupNYC, I want to be backstage with the makeup team for #NYFW #winmehron

Winner will be announced on Tuesday! Mehron is known for Extreme Beauty and this season expect nothing less. There is also a special surprise at the end of the show! Can't Wait!

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Brandalyn Fulton is a Makeup, Wig & Hair Artist residing in New York City. Her work can be found at www.brandalynfultononline.com.