Beauty With Brains

OOTD: Neon + Neutrals

2013-05-19T20:00:00.001-04:00

A beautiful day in NYC last Friday. So I decided to venture out to the park near my neighborhood with my tripod and capture a few shots. Not bad for pics I took myself, eh?

Un hermoso día en la ciudad de Nueva York el viernes pasado. Así que decidí salir al parque cerca de mi barrio con mi trípode y capturar algunos tiros. No está mal para fotos que tomé yo, eh?

I got to wear the fabulous neon satchel that my sister got me for my birthday. And these ankle-strap flats are my favorite shoe of the moment. They are such a cute alternative to heels! I have a pair in mint green, which I am wearing in this post.

Tengo que llevar la bolsa de neón fabulosa que mi hermana me llevó por mi cumpleaños. Y estos pisos tobillo-correa son mis zapatos favoritos del momento. Son una alternativa tan linda a los talones! Tengo un par de verde menta, que estoy usando en este post.

top (blusa): Forever 21

leggings/pants (pantalones): random brand

shoes (zapatos): Breckelle

purse (cartera): Aldo

Fashion Friday: Spring/Summer Must-Haves

2013-05-03T09:00:00.000-04:00

`Fashion Set by beautywithbrainss featuring twisted x boots

Topshop leopard dress / Rare London long sleeve top, $45 / A|X Armani Exchange a x armani exchange / Mango slim cut jeans, $54 / Schutz twisted x boots / Zara leather sandals / Satchel handbag / Illesteva sunglasses

The maxi skirt has a new twist in the form of the slit. The higher, the better! All that leg is best paired with a simple strappy sandal. I'm loving shoes in jewel tones and lace-up, high-heeled sandals. Goes perfect with your favorite mini skirt or dress.

The midi-length is gaining more popularity. I love this style particularly on tall women, it is so flattering on them. Shorter girls can wear it too as long as they avoid flats. And fun neon colors are a easy way to add a pop of color to any outfit.

The ombre trend is still going strong. Staying tuned for a DIY post on making your own ombre top!

MAC Fashion Sets And Extra Dimension Haul and Swatches

2013-04-30T09:00:00.000-04:00

This is a post that is a bit overdue. MAC came out with the Fashion Sets and Extra Dimension collections a couple of weeks ago. I only got a couple of items. I have been wanting the "Heroine" lipstick for a really long time but it was sold out EVERYWHERE. Luckily, Rai at Glam-Morena had an extra that she sent to me. I also got the "Ablaze" lipglass, I feel like I have waaaaay too many orange and coral lipsticks.

I got a Skinfinish from the Extra Dimension collection which was "Double Definition". It is a beautiful bronze-gold duo. I have a worn it a few times and I love how it looks on my skin tone.

MAC lipstick in "Heroine"

MAC lipglass in "Ablaze"

MAC Skinfinish in "Double Definition"

I also got two items that are permanent: a MAC Paint Pot in "Soft Ochre" and an eye shadow in the shade "Steamy". I love "Steamy", I had a couple of years back and it broke beyond saving. So I repurchased it. it really is a beautiful color and great for the Summertime!

MAC Paint Pot "Soft Ochre"

MAC eye shadow "Steamy"

OOTDs and Romeo Santos Concert in Atlantic City

2013-04-28T09:00:00.000-04:00

My favorite artist (and ultimate celebrity crush) was having a concert in Atlantic City and I just HAD to go. I trekked 2.5 hours from NYC to see him perform. I decided to just stay overnight to experience Atlantic City a bit since I have never been there.

I didn't gamble much, I'm not a big fan of it. Like Carrie Bradshaw said "I like my money where I can see it.. in my closet).

Mi artista preferido (y última celebridad favorita) tenía un concierto en Atlantic City y que tenía que ir. Caminé 2,5 horas desde Nueva York a verlo actuar. Me decidí a pasar la noche para experimentar Atlantic City un poco ya que nunca he estado allí.

Yo no juego mucho, yo no soy un gran fan de ella. Como Carrie Bradshaw dijo: "Me gusta mi dinero donde lo puedo ver .. en mi armario).

Outfit # 1: Concert Outfit

Conjunto #1; Conjunto para el Concierto

top & skirt (camisa y falda): ASOS

jacket (abrigo): T.O.V

sandals (sandalias): Zara

lipstick (pinta labio): NYX Matte Lipstick "Indie Flick"

bracelets (pulseras): ASOS & Forver21

Outfit #2 (shopping and sightseeing)

Conjunto #2 (de compras y excursiones)

sweater & sunglasses (chompa y gafas de sol): Forever21

purse and jeans (bolso y jeans): H&M

shoes (zapatos): Breckelle's

belt (correa): Abercrombie & Fitch

And here are some pictures from the concert. I just love my new camera, the zoom was fantastic!

Spring Fling FOTD

2013-04-11T18:12:00.000-04:00

This is a makeup look I did that was inspired by msroshposh tutorial on YouTube I love the combination of the colors and I am such a big fan of the red-orange lip! I used my favorite lipstick of the moment- NYX's Matte Lipstick in "Indie Flick"- for this look.

PRODUCTS USED

FACE

Black Opal Stick Foundation "Truly Topaz"

Black Opal Stick Foundation "Black Walnut" (contour)

LA Girl Pro Concealer "Cool Tan"

MAC Mineralize Blush "Warm Soul"

EYES

UDPP "Eden"

Wet n Wild "Comfort Zone" palette (green for lid, duochrome color for outer corner)

Jessie's Girl "Brown Eyed Girl" palette (orange for crease, second to last brown for lower lashline)

Urban Decay eye shadow "Vanilla" (inner corner)

L'oreal Lineur Intense Eyeliner "Carbon Black" (upper lashline)

Urban Decay 24/7 eye pencil "Perversion" (lower lashline and waterline)

L'oreal Volumnious Lashes Mascara

Salon Perfect Lashes #33

LA Girl Pro Concealer "Cool Tan" (highlight)

Milani EasyBrow brow pencil "Dark Brown"

LIPS

NYX lip pencil in "Plush Red"

NYX Matte Lipstick "Indie Flick"

EOTD: Bright Yellow Eye Look

2013-04-07T20:56:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago, I took advantage of a credit I received from Beautylish and bought two eye shadows from Sugarpill Cosmetics. I was very pleased from the service from Beautylish. My order shipped SUPER fast and I got it in two days! It is a great place to buy from.

One of the eye shadows I purchased was "Buttercupcake" which is a bright yellow. I love the color, it is so cheerful! I did a dramatic look using this color. I will be doing a more everyday look and posting it. I can see myself reaching for this shadow a lot for the Spring/Summer. I'm definitely trying to wear more colorful eye shadows.

PRODUCTS USED

UDPP "Eden"

NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil "Milk" (eyelid)

NYX Bronze Smokey Eye Palette (second shade in crease)

TooFaced eye shadow "In the Buff" (highlight and brow bone)

Ruby Kisses Gel Liner "Rich Black) (upper and lower lashline)

NYX eyeliner "White" (waterline and extended past lower lashline)

Salon Perfect lashes

Milani EasyBrow eyebrow pencil "Dark Brown"

Prom Trends For 2013

2013-04-03T10:00:00.000-04:00

I had a request to do a feature on prom fashion. I had never done a prom post before and this sure left me feeling nostalgic. My own prom dress was by Jovani and it was a canary yellow. I loved it and felt like a princess that day.

my HS prom (I'm second from the left-duh.)

I remembered wanting soft, voluminous curls for my prom. Instead I was stuck with frizzy, tight curls. But I digress. I have put together some prom looks that will sure to dazzle everyone in your senior class.

image credit: Aliexpress.com

Emerald green is the color of the year for 2013 so why not choose it as the color for your prom dress. I love Grecian-inspired gowns and this one is gorgeous. This color is universally flattering and it's elegant and flowy with just the right amount of glam. I personally think it would look much better with an up-do instead of wearing the hair down.

Remember that movie "10 Things I Hate About You" where Bianca Strafford had that ultra-cool 2 piece tutu and top? I thought that was one of the greatest prom looks ever. This Sherri Hill dress is a more modern take with a shorter skirt and a fresh coral color. Coral is a big color this year. This would look best with simple delicate sandals.

image credit: Jovani

This is one from the 2013 Jovani Prom Collection which features a lot of sheer detailing this year. This delicate gold color is very pretty and the sheer detailing is very tasteful and elegant. I think it's important to not show too much skin and be outrageously sexy. you'll just end up regretting it as you cringe at the photos years later.

Want to see more prom posts? Feel free to leave comments!

Birthday OOTDs

2013-04-01T21:18:00.000-04:00

Last Saturday was my birthday. I spent it by going to brunch in the early afternoon with my sister and Jeremy. Then I partied with some friends in the night time. I had a great time! I went with comfy and casual look in the daytime. It was so nice out!

Zara tee
Lulu's pants (currently sold out)
F21 loafers
assorted accessories

Then I went for a colorful print for the nighttime celebration. I felt great in the dress, it was ultra flattering. I'm in love with midi-length dresses now. My height is definitely an advantage for this style. Shorter girls look great in this style also with some awesome heels.

Oh My Love dress, buy here
Zara sandals, buy here
F21 clutch
watch from Amazon

Product Review: BA Star Pro Makup Natural Palette

2013-03-19T19:23:00.001-04:00

I was given the opportunity to review an eye shadow palette by BA Star Pro Makeup.Their company specializes in performance makeup, for dance teams and cheerleaders especially.I was sent this palette featuring neutral colors and 2 shades of glitter gel. The company describes it as a natural eye palette.

BA Star "Smokey Eye" palette

The shadows feel really buttery and soft to the touch and apply very smoothly. I love the "nude" shade especially, it is a perfect color for highlight.

BA Star Natural Eye Palette swatches (l-r: bronze, cocoa, nude, gold and crystal)

The eye shadows are mineral-based and the glitters are gel based. The gel glitters were a little more tricky to swatch. They tended to spread out when I used my finger. These would probably work better when applied with a brush.

BA Star Natural Eye Palette swatches (bronze, cocoa and nude)

The palette retails for $8.75 USD on the BA Star website. I could see myself getting a lot of use out this palette. The colors are warm and neutral and I really like how they look on my skin tone. I would recommend this product, especially since it's so affordable.

BA Star Pro Makeup, gave me a discount to share so you can try their Smoky Palette. Enter BBSMOKY at checkout and you get it for 50% off!

Disclaimer: This post contains a product that has been sent to me for review consideration.

Birthday Wishlist

2013-03-15T09:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday by beautywithbrainss featuring yellow gold rings

I haven't done a wishlist post in so long! I missed doing them because they are pretty fun to make. I'll be turning the big 2-5 in a couple of weeks. I just love birthdays, not just mine either. They're always fun to celebrate. I'm excited yet a little nervous about getting old. Being 25 is so "grown-up" haha. There's no use in dreading, might as well celebrate another year alive!

EOTD: Aqua Pop Part 2

2013-03-13T14:05:00.002-04:00

As promised, here is another look using the beautiful eye shadow I got from Inglot. This time, the Aquamarine is the base color. I love this color, it's so bright and fresh. And it is also the color of my birthstone :). A little treat, for my fellow March babies.

Products Used

ELF Eyelid Primer

NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil "Milk"

Inglot eye shadow no. 372 (lid and lower lashline)

Wet n Wild eye pencil "Deep Blue" (crease)

Too Faced eye shadow "Unmentionables" (blend in crease)

Too Faced eye shadow "In The Buff" (highlight)

Too Faced eye shadow "Pillow Talk" (brow bone)

NYX Super Fat Eye Marker "Black"

Maybelline Colossal Mascara "Glam Black"

Wet n Wild "Blue Had Me At Hello" palette (light blue for middle of lid and inner corner)

Aqua Pop FOTD

2013-03-07T12:00:00.000-05:00

A look I did inspired by March's birthstone Aquamarine. This is very springy and you all know how much I love "pops of color". I used Inglot eye shadow in 372 as an eyeliner. This is my first Inglot eye shadow and I LOVE it. I'm planning on posting another look with this eye shadow. Enjoy!

FACE

Urban Decay Naked Foundation in Shade 8.0

L.A Girl Pro Concealer in "Cool Tan" (read my review HERE.

Inglot blush no. 29

MAC Shell Pearl Beauty Powder (from Year of the Snake collection)

EYES

Urban Decay Primer Potion

NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil "Milk"

Urban Decay eye shadow in "Gunmetal" (crease & lower lash line)

Latina Bella eye shadow in "Flan" (lid)

Inglot eye shadow no. 372 (upper lash line)

Milani Easybrow Brow Pencil "Dark Brown"

Maybelline Colossal Mascara "Glam Black"

LIPS

NYX slim lip pencil "Natural"

NYX Lip Butter Gloss "Creme Brulee"

LA Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer Review and Swatches

2013-03-05T15:04:00.001-05:00

L.A Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealers in "Cool Tan" and "Fawn"

I purchased two shades of the LA Girl Pro Concealer off of Cherry Culture. They were "Fawn" and "Cool Tan". This is the best, inexpensive concealer I have ever used! The consistency is creamy and blends like a dream. It also gives excellent coverage. A little goes a long way with this formula, I didn't need that much to cover my under-eyes and blemishes.

photo from Cherry Culture

The concealer comes in a tube and it features a brush-like applicator. I like the packaging, even though the bush might not be too sanitary to use directly on clients if you are an MUA. But I like that you can control the amount of product that comes out of the tube. And there is a great selection of shades. The picture swatches on the Cherry Culture are a bit off. "Cool Tan" is a good dupe for NW35 skin, which is the shade I use in MAC concealers. I got "Fawn" to use as my Summer shade.

swatch of "Cool Tan" (above) and "Fawn"

L.A Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer is available at Cherry Culture for $2.50. And it is worth every penny, even at its regular price of $5.00. The current sale price is great if you want to stock up or try several shades.

Pros: inexpensive, blendable, great coverage, good variety of shades, nice consistency.

Cons: limited availability offline (not too many drugstores carry L.A Girl)

Overall: 4.5/5

"Save Money, Save Lives" With Save1.com

2013-02-15T21:58:00.001-05:00

The best thing about shopping online is the coupons and deals that you score. Wouldn't it be great if you can save money AND help somebody in the process? You can do that by using Save1.com.

image credit: http://save1.com

Save1 is an online source for coupons and discounts. They feature major retailers such as Target, ULTA and Banana republic. What makes them different from other coupon sites is that they receive a small commission every you enter a discount code and they use that money to feed a child in need!

Save1 is non-profit and supports accredited organizations. You can view more information on their feeding partners here.

Their website is updated daily with new deals. There are tons of retailers to choose from, and imagine how good you'll feel helping a child in need. For more information and for updates in discounts, check Save1 out
in Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest. They also have a blog that have helpful tips in saving money.

"Save Money, Save Lives".

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post.

Valentine's Day Lips

2013-02-13T21:49:00.004-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day! Whether you're going out with a special someone or just hanging with friends, hope you all have a good time. I wanted to share two lip looks that are bold and super easy to do. All you need is some patience and the right tools.

Look 1: Heart Lips

1. Apply your base color first on lips. I used "Pink Pop" from the new Maybelline VIVID collection.
2. Using a lip brush, trace a heart on your lips then fill the heart in. I used a crazy-bright red so that it can be seen when applied on my lips. I used NYX round lipstick in "Chaos".
3. Go over and neaten up edges as needed.

Look 2: Pink Ombre Lips

1. Traced the top half of your lips with a dark pink lip liner. I used "Fuchsia" by NYX. Then, go over the lip liner with a matching lipstick. I used "Hot Plum", which is another shade in the Maybelline VIVID collection. Apply a light pink to your bottom lip. I used NYX round lipstick in "Harmonica". Then with a lip brush, I blended "Hot Plum" into the inner middle of my bottom lip. And done! This look is more wearable. Even on a date! I'm sure you valentine will dig the subtle edge.

I also have a complete face look for Valentine's Day, which you can view HERE.

MAC Archie's Girls Haul and Swatches

2013-02-07T22:05:00.000-05:00

I got a few items from the MAC Archie's Girls collection. I was lucky enough to find them at a MAC store because the lipsticks I wanted were sold out. And when they would go back in stock, they would sell sell out in minutes! I got two lipsticks (Betty Bright and Daddy's Little Girl) and a Pearlmatte face powder (Flatter Me from the Betty collection).

MAC lipsticks "Daddy's Little Girl" (Veronica collection) and "Betty Bright" (Betty collection)

MAC "Flatter Me" Pearlmatte Face Powder (From the Betty Collection)

swatch of "Flatter Me" Pearlmatte Face Powder

swatches of "Daddy's Little Girl" and "Betty Bright"

"Daddy's Little Girl"

"Betty Bright"

Flirty Valentine's Day Look

2013-02-04T22:24:00.001-05:00

"love" ring- Ruby & Jenna

I was requested to do a look for Valentine's Day that was fun and can be worn on a date. I came up with this pink and purple look. It's flirtatious and pretty and the purple really plays up brown eyes. Enjoy!

Products Used:

FACE

Maybelline Fit Me Concealer "Medium"

NYX pot concealer "Tan"

Urban Decay NAKED Foundation shade 8.0

NYX blush "Pinky"

Urban Decay eyeshadow "Vanilla" (as highlighter)

EYES

Urban Decay Primer Potion

Loreal HIP pigment "Fiery" (center of lid)

purple eye shadow from NYX "Velvet Rope" palette (crease and lower lash line)

dark pink eye shadow from NYX "Velvet Rope" palette (outer third)

silvery eye shadow from NYX "Velvet Rope" palette (inner corner)

N.Y.C HD Liquid Eyeliner (upper lash line)

NYX eye pencil "White" (lower water line)

tan eye shadow from Wet n Wild "Vanity" palette (brow bone)

cream eye shadow from Wet n Wild "Vanity" palette (highlight)

Milani EasyBrow Brow Pencil "Dark Brown"

Ardell "Sexies" lashes

Maybelline Colossal Mascara "Glam Black"

LIPS

MAC lipstick "Daddy's Little Girl"

Maybelline Color Sensational VIVID Lipsticks Swatches and Review

2013-01-30T18:30:00.002-05:00

From The Company

Now bright goes gorgeous, never garish. Brighter color from our exclusive vivid pigments. Creamier feel from nourishing honey nectar.

My Thoughts

I was very excited to try these out, the colors looked absolutely gorgeous in the ads. I was hoping that the color payoff wouldn't disappoint.

Maybelline VIVID lipsticks in "Brazen Berry", "Hot Plum" and "Pink Pop"

I was not disappointed, they are fabulous! The colors are rich and the formula is very creamy and moisturizing. I purchased three shades, "Hot Plum", "Brazen Berry" and "Pink Pop".

"Hot Plum" is more on the pink side to me. I was expecting it to have more of a purple tone. I really like how it looks though. I feel this shade is universally flattering on all skin tones.

"Brazen Berry" is a vivid purple. This color is what I though "Hot Plum" would look like.

"Pink Pop" is a very pretty bubble gum pink. This is a perfect spring shade! It kind of reminds me of Maybelline's lipstick in "Pink Please", but more intense in color.

I definitely recommend these if you want to experiment with bold lip colors without breaking the bank. And drugstores are constantly having BOGOs so these are a steal.

Pantone Edgy Emerald FOTD

2013-01-27T12:42:00.000-05:00

I did another look inspired by the color emerald green. This time, the color was more of the focal point instead of just an accent color. I love how wonderful this look makes my brown eyes look. I paired it with a peachy-nude lip once again. This is perfect for a night out.

Products Used

FACE

Black Opal True Color Stick Foundation "Truly Topaz"

Bare Minerals Bronzer

Milani blush "Luminous"

Maybelline stick concealer "Beige"

MAC Pro Longwear concealer "NW35"

LIPS

Loreal lipstick "Fairest Nude"

Sephora lipgloss "Flushed"

EYES

UDPP

Loreal Voluminous Smoldering eyeliner "Black" (crease and lower waterline)

NYX eye shadow "Black" (blend in crease and lower lash line)

Maybelline Color Tattoo Eye Shadow "Edgy Emerald" (lid)

MAC eyeshadow "Humid" (lid and lower lash line)

Urban Decay eyeshadow "Foxy" (highlight)

Revlon lash adhesive

Red Cherry lashes #510

Milani Easybrow brow pencil "Dark Brown"

Maybelline Colossal Mascara "Black

Jennifer Lopez for Harper's Bazaar Inspired Makeup

2013-01-23T17:23:00.000-05:00

Jennifer Lopez graced the cover for the February issue of Harper's Bazaar and of course she looked fabulous. As expected. I loved her makeup on the cover and decided to recreate my version of it. I used the NAKED Palette 2 for my eyes.

Products Used:

FACE

Maybelline stick concealer "Beige"

Black Opal True Color Stick Foundation "Truly Topaz

MAC Pro Longwear Concealr "NW35"

Bare Minerals bronzer

Ben Nye Banana Powder

EYES

(all shadows from NAKED 2 Palette)

Bootycall (eyelid)

Foxy (under brow)

Snakebite (lower lash line and crease)

NARS bronzer in "Laguna" for blending

Loreal Voluminous Smoldering Eyeliner "Black"

Yanqina Dense Ultra Resistance Volume Mascara (review coming soon!)

Milani Easy Brow Eyebrow Pencil "Dark Brown"

LIPS

Wet n Wild Megalast Lipstick "Purty Persimmon"

Pantone Color Of The Year: Emerald Green

2013-01-16T15:42:00.000-05:00

This year Pantone chose the Emerald Green as the Color of The Year for 2013. Pantone describes the color as "Lively. Radiant. Lush… A color of elegance and beauty that enhances our sense of well-being, balance and harmony."

I think that emerald green is a rich and vibrant hue that works wonderfully as an accent color. I created a look inspired by the color of the year. It's a great way to brighten up a neutral look.

Products Used

FACE

Urban Decay NAKED Foundation shade 8.0

Maybelline FitMe Concealer "Medium"

Ben Nye Contour No. 2

N.Y.C Blushable Creme Stick "Mauvin Uptown"

Love & Beauty blush (From Forever 21)

Ben Nye Banana Powder

Nars bronzer "Laguna"

EYES

UDPP

MAC "Bold & Brazen" eye shadow (lid)

Urban Decay "Bootycall" (inner corner), "Busted"(outer corner) eye shadows from Naked 2 palette

TooFaced "Cocoa Star" eye shadow from Natural At Night Palette

Wet n Wild Idol Eyes creme eye shadow pencil "Envy" (base for lower lash line color)

Wet n Wild eye shadow "Envy"

LIPS

Revlon lipstick "Soft Nude"

Sephora lip gloss "Flushed"

The Wet n Wild creme eye shadow pencil and single eye shadow in "Envy" are cheap and great ways to get your emerald green fix. As both an accent color and an all over eye color. We can expect to see this color everywhere in makeup and in fashion as well.

iHerb.com Haul

2013-01-14T20:29:00.003-05:00

I have wanted to try Real Techniques makeup brushes for awhile, particularly the face brushes. After shopping around, I found that iHerb.com had the best prices and cheapest shipping. I also bought a fragrance mist; I'm a sucker vanilla scents! iHerb.com is an online pharmacy that sells vitamins, eco-friendly products and pet supplies at discounted prices.

Real Techniques brushes by Samatha Chapman: blush brush, stippling brush and foundation brush

Real Techniques Blush Brush

Real Techniques Blush Brush (close-up)

One of the brushes was already discounted and I found a $5.00 coupon on Retail Me Not. So I only ended up paying about $20.00 USD for all three brushes. Their shipping was super fast too. At checkout they did warn that there might be delay of about 48 hours for shipping but mine shipped within one day. I paid for USPS Priority Mail and received my package 3 days later.

So if you want to try Real Techniques brushes, I would definitely recommend IHerb.com. If you enter the code FSZ220 at checkout, you can save up to $10.00!

A more in-depth review will be posted soon!

Black Opal True Color Stick Foundation Review

2013-01-09T14:18:00.001-05:00

From The Company:

Sometimes you do have something to hide and this creme foundation housed in a portable stick can make camouflaging problem areas on the face that much easier. This Broad-Spectrum SPF 15, hypoallergenic formula protects skin from UVA/UVB damage. It delivers the maximum coverage for perfect, even skin tone. It won't clog pores and blends smoothly to give you the flawless face you've always wanted. Paraben-Free, Fragrance-Free.

My Thoughts:
This is a great foundation for women of color who desire more coverage. As a woman of color, I can definitely relate to color-matching, especially with drugstore formulas. This foundation comes in a variety of shades with golden and red undertones. The formula is really easy to blend, I love using it with my ELF Studio Powder Brush. The dense bristles leaves my face really smooth and flawless. I use the shade "Truly Topaz" for my face and "Hazelnut" for contouring. This is a great alternative for Revlon Colorstay, which is my HG for drugstore foundation. And with the Black Opal True Color Stick Foundation, there is no funky smell to deal with.

The only negative I found with this foundation is that it does have a tendency to transfer. I would suggest priming your face and setting it with powder for long wear. I would definitely not wear this in the Summertime because my face gets super oily and I would have to constantly retouch it. I prefer lighter formulas for the Summer anyway. But for cooler months, it's perfect and it leaves you with a really nice, velvety finish.

Black opal True Color Stick Foundation retails for about $8.99 USD and can be found at most drugstores. I know Duane Reade and Walgreens carries Black Opal products.

Black Opal True Color Stick Foundation in "Truly Topaz"

Black Opal True Color Stick Foundation in "Truly Topaz" (swatch not blended)

Black Opal True Color Stick Foundation in "Truly Topaz" (blended out, it even covered the scratch I received from my bunny)

wearing Black Opal True Color Stick Foundation in "Truly Topaz"

Pros: affordable, easy to blend, variety of shades, great for women of color, affordable, easy availability
Cons: transfers easily, not recommended for Summertime
Overall: 4/5

New Year's Eve OOTD

2013-01-02T19:21:00.001-05:00

LOVE Marcella dress (find it here)

Luichiny "Eye Doll" shoes

Spiked bracelet from Dusk Jewels

Happy New Year! First OOTD of 2013 and it is what I wore New Year's Eve. You guys should know by now that I LOVE dressing up for the New Year. I love welcoming the new year dressed to the nines.

I wanted to wear white to try something new. Searching for the perfect white dress was a little tough though. And then I found one, nice and simple with enough details to make it interesting. AND it was on sale, woo! I ordered this dress In Love With Fashion. It is a site based in the UK and they have great clothes. This is my second time ordering from them and I've been very satisfied both times. I got my items super quick! The prices are great and they are always having sales as well.

I only got one good picture of my makeup. I wanted a J-Lo inspired glow. I mostly used the Naked Palette 2 and I loved how it came out!

PRODUCTS USED

FACE

NYX Photogenic Primer (purple one)

Black Opal Stick Foundation "Truly Topaz"

MAC Pro Longwear Concealer NW35

NYX cream blush "Glow"

ELF Blush "St Lucia" from bronzer/blush duo

Urban Decay eyeshadow "Vanilla" (as highlight)

Ben Nye Contour No 2 Powder

EYES

UDPP

Maybelline Color Tattoo "Bad to the Bronze" (lid as base)

Latina Bella eyshadow "Flan" (highlight)

Urban Decay "Suspect" (lid)

Urban Decay "Tease" (crease)

Urban Decay "Blackout" (outer corner)

Urban Decay "Hustle" (lower lashline)

Urban Decay 24/7 eyeliner "Perversion" (lashlines and lower waterline)

Red Cherry lashes #505

Maybelline Falsies Mascara

LIPS

NYX Slim Lip Pencil "Natural"

Rimmel Moisture Renew Lipstick "Nude Delight"

Wishing everybody the best for 2013!

New Years Outfit Ideas

2012-12-27T14:00:00.000-05:00

A fashion post after all those makeup ones! The year is ending in four days and if you have yet to find an outfit, here are some ideas. Enjoy!

New Years Outfit by beautywithbrainss featuring a body conscious dress

Body conscious dress / Chinese Laundry suede shoes / Rare London layered necklace, $31 / Wallis knot earrings / Red lipstick, $8.07 / bulk new year party tiaras - happy new year tiaras asstd colors50cs

Be trend in Winter white. This simple dress become extraordinary with a body chain. The heavy metal goes perfect with the embellished "heelless" shoes.

New Years Eve by beautywithbrainss featuring black heels

Bardot peplum shirt, $94 / MICHAEL Michael Kors michael kor, $73 / Miss Selfridge black heels / Kate Spade bangle bracelet / Betsey Johnson photo jewelry / Gag & Lou black jewelry / Happy New Year Gold Text on White Confetti Canvas Prints

Peplum, leather and sequins! Oh my! The colors are pretty neutral because of the different textures in this outfit. Black doesn't always have to be boring, liven it up with an arm party!

New Years Eve by beautywithbrainss featuring a silver blazer

GUESS by Marciano bustier shirt / Swarovski top, $94 / Silver blazer, $32 / Glamorous checkered shorts, $16 / Black pantyhose / Steve Madden platform booties

This last one is menswear inspired but still sexy with the bustier top and suspender tights. The shorts and tights keep you warm and you can dance the night away without worrying about your crotch showing. The sequined blazer and the satiny texture of the shorts keep this look dressed up enough for any party.

Here are some picks from ShopStyle for sequined shorts:

sequined shorts