Orange 2 LA

Sorry for the lack of updates, but until then...

2011-08-30T19:58:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

Sorry for the lack of updates, I have had a rough month of tooth pain, summer heat, baby birds (don't ask), migraines, car troubles, car accidents, crazy work schedule, and much more that has kept me from blogging.

I have things lined up, and should be back to blogging in September. I feel so out of the makeup loop and hope I can jump right back in. I recently became a writer over at weheartthis.com and just had my first review posted on their site, so please check that out RIGHT HERE and support another wonderful blog.

Until I'm officially back enjoy these photos of squirrels that have taken over my front yard.

Thank you,
Diane

It was super hot that day =)

The Lipstick League - week of 7.25.11

2011-07-31T12:43:00.000-07:00

Question of the Week:

What's your favorite skincare line?

I really don't stick to one skincare line. I use different products from different lines, but right now the skincare lines I like are: Kate Somerville, Embryolisse, Arcona, and The Body Shop Vitamin E line. I mix the products from these lines to suit my skin, which I feel has been working out pretty well.

Now to this weeks links...

Orange to LA - shares her casual yet cool Style Essentials, see what items she needs to have in her stash at ALL times.

Pink Sith - Had made the decree that she will be buried with her Urban Decay Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in Perversion...not that she's morbid or anything.

Phyrra - is delighted with the 15-Year Anniversary Eye Shadow Collection from Urban Decay.

Prime Beauty - was dazed and confused-- but oh so happy after visiting the Inglot Cosmetics store.

Vampy Varnish - declares that Wet n Wild Mega Eyes Cream Liner is better than MAC Blacktrack!

we heart this - The MAC Colourization eye shadow duos have us hungry like the wolf! Join us on a swatch fest set to classic 80s albums.

Beauty Junkies Unite - Check out the review & swatches for the Touring America Collection by OPI, before its official launch date!

Clumps of Mascara - is shocked that Essence's polishes are so cheap and yet so delightful.

EauMG - Victoria of EauMG takes a trip to Washington's lavender land!

Lipglossiping - is all of a flutter test-driving Benefit's new They're Real! mascara. Come see the before & after photos and be impressed!

Nouveau Cheap - reviews one of the new L'Oreal Color Riche le Gloss lipglosses. A "your lips but better" shade that tastes like chocolatey marshmallow? Yes, please.

My Style Essentials

2011-07-24T09:55:00.000-07:00

Style essentials. Let's break it down here, I'm not talking about the cute trendy clothes we buy, I'm talking about the bare necessities. The items you must have in your closet at all times, the things you pack first in your suitcase if you are going away for a few days. Items that really make you feel like yourself. Here are some items I have in my closet all the time, I can't live without them.

Long Cardigans
I don't know what it is about long cardigans or "grandpa sweaters", but I love them. When it's cold I grab for these sweaters first. I have these sweaters in all the basic colors, black, grey, brown, cream. I love how they go with almost anything and I always feel safe and comfy when I'm wearing one.

Black Converse "Chucks"
I have been wearing Chucks for as long as I can remember. They are essential and actually look good with almost any outfit. You can wear them with shorts, jeans, skirts, even casual dresses, regardless they always look cool. I love my stilettos and wedges but Chucks have a special place in my heart.

Vintage Jewelry or "Vintage Like"
I love vintage earrings and necklaces. They dress up any outfit and don't look overly "bling" which tends to scare me. I have a small collection of vintage earrings and a huge collection of vintage like necklaces. I love anything with owls or fish on it.

Knock em' dead lipstick or lip gloss
Every girl needs to have a knock em' dead lipstick or lip gloss in their bag. I personally love a good hot pink or red lipstick. A bold lipstick or lip gloss color can turn any day time look into a night time look. Plus you never know who you will meet and ladies you should always be ready to knock em' dead!

Black Liquid Liner
I am a liquid liner fiend. This is not a secret and I am not ashamed. I have always loved black liner and will always love black liner. It is apart of me and I will never part with it.

Statement Handbag
I may not like paying an obscene amount of money on jeans and clothes, but I am totally fine with dropping a whole paycheck on a purse I love, call me crazy I don't care. Whether it's a beautiful Chanel or even those Forever21 bags, if it makes a statement you need it in your life.

Skinny Jeans
I was against the whole skinny jean movement when they first started becoming popular. I searched stores wondering what happened to regular jeans. But once I embraced the skinny jean I realized how versatile they were. Now I always have a good pair of skinny jeans in my closet. They look cute with my heels, my flats, and most important they look cute with my chucks.

Sunglasses
This is self explanatory, every girl should carry sunglasses. I had laser surgery on my eyes years and years ago and ever since then I realized how important it is to take care of your eyes. I have always been a little sensitive to light but after the amount of money I spent on my eyes I treat them like precious diamonds. Plus sunglasses are also great for those mornings when I haven't had my coffee yet.

Basic Tees
Basic tees are fun and come in a variety of colors. Some days I don't want to overly think about 'what to wear' so I throw on jeans and a basic tee. I have them in every color and sometimes even layer them for fun.

So ladies, what items are apart of your style essential list?

The Lipstick League - week of 7.18.11

2011-07-23T18:58:00.000-07:00

Question of the Week:

In some sort of cruel twist of fate, it's ruled that you can only wear one brand for the rest of your life - which do you choose?

If I had to choose one brand to wear for the rest of my life that brand would have to fit some criteria. A brand that has a foundation that I love, a large range that continues to change and add products, as well as a brand that is easily accessible to me and most people. For me when I add that all together I think I would have to pick Chanel. Chanel is not my favorite brand but it is in the top 5 of my favorite brands. Chanel is easily accessible, has a foundation I love, and it's range is constantly changing. Chanel is classic, I can create a look for work or easily change it up and create a look for a night out. I love Le Metier de Beaute and at first I thought that would be the brand I would choose, the only reason I didn't is because LMdB products sell out across the board and takes a while to get products in stock. For example I waited almost 5 months to get my foundation in stock. I love you LMdB but I can't wait 5 months for my foundation if I run out.

Now onto this weeks links...

Nouveau Cheap - gives you an in-depth review of the new Salma Hayek Nuance Beautiful Blends Eye Quad, and it's unlike anything you've ever seen before (no, really).

Orange to LA - Continues her Color Inspiration & Coordination series. This time her inspiration is a cute orange Birkin inspired tote bag. See which orange products she loves this season.

Pink Sith - is just one "Bye" short of an 'N Sync Reference when she tells you how much she loves the It Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer!

Phyrra - swoons over the new Too Faced Exotic Color Intense Eye Shadows.

Vampy Varnish - loves some of the new colors in the China Glaze Metro Collection Which ones do you like?

we heart this - Our Kitchen Cosmetician experiments with exfoliation, using ingredients that cost pennies per use!

Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill #3 Purpura

2011-07-21T18:22:00.000-07:00

Giorgio Armani 'Eyes To Kill' High Voltage 24-Hour Eyeshadow - (32.00)

My Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill shadows are my go to shadows. When I don't know what to wear or if I'm in a rush I know my ETK shadows will always work great. I currently own about 7 different colors and have only come across one color that I didn't love. I was excited when I saw GA had released a new color that I was seeing hit blogs, and that color was #3 Purpura.

Purpura is a silver-infused purple with gold flecks. In the pan the purple and gold is very dominate, but once on the skin the color is more on the silver metallic side. The color itself can come off a little sheer at times and can even have a very slight grey undertone, but at no means is this a dull color. Purpura can be used in a lot of different ways and can really be paired with almost any color. My favorite is to wear a little gold under my eyes to bring out the gold flecks in the ETK shadow.

In case you're not familiar with the Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill shadows let me remind you of some of the basics.

1. The eye shadows can be worn dry or wet.
2. The eye shadows are long lasting.
3. The eye shadow textures are a little like a cream shadow but applies like a dry shadow.

I tried to do a Giorgio Armani only FOTD:

Face:
Le Metier de Beaute 'Peau Vierge Correcteur' Concealer
Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation
Giorgio Armani Micro-Fil Loose Powder
Giorgio Armani Sheer Blush in #6
Giorgio Armani Platinum Palette Sheer Shimmer
Chantecaille Bronzer in St. Barth's

Eyes:
Le Métier de Beauté 'Brow Bound' Eyebrow Pencil
Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill #3 Purpura
Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill #15 (under eye)
Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill Mascara

Lips:
Giorgio Armani Rouge d'armani lipstick in #516

Color Inspiration & Coordination: Orange

2011-07-19T16:37:00.000-07:00

Continuing with the Color Inspiration & Coordination series, today I decided to focus on this seasons hot trend- Orange. I have a big collection of tote bags, tote bags are perfect for work and for running errands when I need to carry a lot of stuff with me. This weeks inspiration: my orange Hermes Birkin inspired Banana Taipei Canvas Bag. This bag is fun and great for summer, after going through my makeup collection I decided to pick out some of my favorite orange products.

My favorite orange products:

MAC My Paradise Cheek Powder

MAC Temperature Rising Lip Pencil

Majolica Majorca Cheek Customize OR211

Shu Uemura Blush in P peach 45

MAC Blush in Style

LMdB Splendid Frost Kaleidoscope E/S in Rockette

MAC Eyeshadow in Paradisco

MAC Pigment in Melon

MAC Lipstick in Neon Orange

YSL Lipstick in #13

Paul & Joe Cream Blush in #4

The Lipstick League - week of 7.11.11

2011-07-16T09:59:00.000-07:00

Question of the Week:

What’s the most you’ve ever spent on a beauty product?

This question is a little tough to answer, "beauty product" is such a general term, are we talking skin care, hair care, and makeup products? Well, I will answer this in a few different ways. The most I have ever spent on a skin care product was back when I started testing Creme de la Mer products. The moisturizer alone was between 135.00 and 250.00 depending on what size you purchased. The most I have ever spent on a single hair care product had to be when I purchased Philip B's White Truffle Shampoo and Conditioner, my wallet was really hurting at that point. Last but not least, I think the most I have ever spent on a single makeup product was recently when I fell in love with Le Metier de Beaute Peau Vierge Anti-Aging Complex Tinted Treatment, I love this product and think it's worth every penny... and it's a lot of pennies.

Enough about extreme spending, on to this weeks links...

Lipglossiping - champions the Brit pack with a couple of purchases from Mary Quant Cosmetics, ironically... made in Japan!

Nouveau Cheap - There's a surprising little twist to the new Wet n Wild Juicy Lip Balms. What could it be?

Orange to LA - has been smitten with another blush, this time it is Giorgio Armani Blushing Fabric #5 Raspberry. Find out if you need this blush in your collection!

Pink Sith - has pictures and swatches of the Nordstrom Annual Sale EXCLUSIVE Chanel Joues Contraste Blush in Rose Tourbillon. Something to add to your shopping list!

Phyrra - has an awesome Vampirella liner tutorial for you!

Vampy Varnish - loves the new Wet n Wild Nail Color Collection called Mermaid's Cove ! Which are your favs?

we heart this - Our beauty scientist put Make Up For Ever Aqua Liner to the test. Did it pass with flying colors, or running streaks?

Beauty Junkies Unite - Amber reviews some of the July exclusive Limited Edition Milani High Speed Fast Dry Nail Lacquers to see how they perform!

Giorgio Armani Blushing Fabric #5 Raspberry

2011-07-14T09:53:00.000-07:00

Giorgio Armani 'Blushing Fabric' Second Skin Blush #5 Raspberry - $38.00
When Giorgio Armani's Summer Collection was released I ordered #4 Sienna, you can read my review on that color HERE, I originally skipped on #5 Raspberry which also was released with the Summer Collection. Now some months later I decided I had to have Raspberry. The makeup part of my brain works in odd ways so don't ask. Currently from what I understand Nordstroms has all 5 of Giorgio Armani's Blushing Fabrics available for purchase on their website. So if you are interested you can now order them.

Raspberry looks a little scary when you first squeeze some out of the tube. My method is to squeeze the smallest amount on the back of my hand and dab the product a little at a time onto the desired area. Once it's situated I make sure to really blend the product well, which is easy since the Blushing Fabrics are silky smooth. The texture reminds me of Smashbox Photofinish Primer, so it glides on rather easily. The color itself is not what I would really consider to be a "raspberry" color. To me raspberry would be a purplish-red color, but this Blushing Fabric is more of a purplish-pink color. I think this blush works better being purplish-pink, once on the skin it takes on a natural flush color, almost like that pink color your cheeks turn during a cold winter day, with just a hint more of purple. The texture is creamy, and light since it is silicone based. Raspberry is a matte shade, so there are no sparkles or glitter.

I love how these blushes last all day. I don't mean they last a long time, I mean they last ALL day. Even when I swatch them on my hand I can see the pink spot on my hand all day after I have washed it off. The blush blends easily and becomes sheer and matte. You can always add a highlighter over the blush or sometimes I add a little of MAC's Trace Gold over the blush for more of a iridescent look.

On the left the blush is blended out in the way I would wear it on the cheeks, on the right is the blush fresh out of the tube.

The Lipstick League - week of 7.4.11

2011-07-09T09:56:00.000-07:00

Question of the Week:

What’s a beauty trend that you wish would go away?

I don't think there is any beauty trend I wish would go away. I think there are looks and trends that do not particularly look great on me, but I can see the beauty in them when on someone else. For example, it's not a secret I hate nude lipsticks, nude lipstick looks horrible on me and I just can not pull that look off. But, I have seen nude lipstick on other women and I think it looks great. I try not to feed into trends in general, I like to wear what looks good on me regardless of if it's "in style" or not.

Who cares about trends and nude lipsticks, let's read this weeks links instead!

Beauty Junkies Unite - Amber shares the entire Dolce & Gabbana Italian Summertime makeup collection, is there anything here you find swoon-worthy?

Clumps of Mascara - can't take her hands off of Milani's limited edition Paint palette.

EauMG - reviews a spicy, garden fresh fragrance by L'Artisan Parfumeur.

Lipglossiping - puts the stamp of approval on FIVE of the hottest pink lipsticks for Summer!

Nouveau Cheap - shows you all six palettes in the Wet n Wild limited edition Dream Weavers collection. Is it cheesy to say these shadows are "out of this world"?

Orange to LA - discovers another highlighter to add to her collection. This time it's Chanel Pearl Glow Powder (Poudre Lumiere Perlee), from the new Chanel Le Blanc Collection. She loves it, will you?

Pink Sith - Joeybunny shows you how beautiful the NYX Nude On Nude Palette can be, and why she loves it so!

Phyrra - extols the virtues of Holika Holika Essential Petit BB Cream SPF 30 PA++. See what caused her to fall in love with it!

Vampy Varnish - Thinks the new MAC Colourizations Eyeshadow Pro Palette x2 are pretty cool!

we heart this - Damn it feels good to be a beauty blogger! Especially after seeing MAC's Bloggers' Obsessions.

Chanel Poudre Lumiere Perlee (Pearl Glow Powder)

2011-07-07T11:26:00.000-07:00

If you didn't know I was a highlighter fiend then you are obviously new to this blog. So- Welcome! I love highlighters more than most things in this world. I use highlighters every day and have numerous highlighters in my collection. You can find a post here on my current favorite Summer Highlighters. But today we are talking about the newest addition to my happy highlighter home. Have I said 'highlighter' enough in this post yet?

Chanel Poudre Lumiere Perlee - Pearl Glow Powder - $60.00

Chanel Pearl Glow Powder comes in the standard Chanel black lacquered case. A soft sponge applicator takes the place of the usual brush that sits next to most Chanel blush or highlight products. I was a little confused when I saw the sponge, I tend to not like sponges in general because once used they start looking dirty, I prefer the brush. The powder in the pan is a warm off-white/cream color sprinkled with gold sparkles/glitter. CHANEL is embossed into the powder, I have used the powder a few times now and the embossing is still there.

I was a little scared when I first saw the powder in person. It looked a little overly glittery in the pan, the huge chunks of glitter almost scared me off completely. But the sales associate convinced me it wasn't that glittery once applied to the skin. Surprising the powder is very smooth despite it's grainy appearance, I thought with everything going on the powder might be chunky or hard to work with. That is not the case at all, the powder is smooth and applies easily on the skin.

I applied the highlighter as recommended by Chanel using the “C” application technique. I first used the sponge applicator on one side of my face and then switched to a soft blush brush for the other side of my face. Both sides of my face had a wonderful and beautiful pearl effect, which ever method you use whether you use the sponge or a brush the powder will still look stunning on the skin. The question comes down to do you really need this? I don't know, for me the answer is yes. The answer is "yes" because first and foremost I love highlighters, second I love and collect Chanel, third- I have issues, forth- I have fall more in love with this highlighter the more I use it. If you fit into this category then you will need this.

**I am editing this post, after a few days of using this product I can't find a reason why you shouldn't buy this- sorry, to those ladies hoping to save money by skipping this product.**

Update: I received this comment today and thought it was insightful and something everyone should read.

Eileen said...

I had not originally planned on getting this, but when I went to pick up my Le Blanc order at Nordstrom's pre-sale, one look was all it took to have me swiping this beauty across my pronounced cheekbones. In the words of the SA and the other women standing around, "Wow!" It goes on as an exquisite wash of white gold and glows like light being reflected off the finest white pearls. For those of you who might be worried about bits of gold, don't be. This is Chanel; not MAC! This is elegance; not disco! I'm in my mid-sixties and pulled it off with class and aplomb. If you have a Nordstrom's card, go and check it out while it is still available. It won't be around for long especially seeing as how beautiful it is when used with the JC Rose Tourbillon.

To see this product in action, you can check out my previous post where I am wearing the Chanel Pearl Glow Powder.

This was hard to swatch. On the left is applied using finger, on the right is applied using sponge.

Comparison to some other similar highlighters

My name is Diane, and I am a highlightaholic.

Color Inspiration & Coordination: Gold

2011-07-06T16:58:00.000-07:00

Last Color Inspiration & Coordination was focused on Pink. While searching through my jewelry trying to find my favorite earrings I came across another favorite pair. This weeks inspiration: my vintage gold Christian Dior earrings. I love these earrings and pulled them out of my collection and decided to coordinate them with a few of my favorite gold eye shadows.

A few of my favorite gold shadows.

MAC Paint Pot Indianwood

NARS Etrusque

MAC Woodwinked

Giorgio Armani ETK #15

Inglot #404

Wearing Inglot #404 layered over Giorgio Armani ETK #15

Face:
Le Metier de Beaute 'Peau Vierge Correcteur' Concealer
Le Métier de Beauté 'Peau Vierge Anti Aging Complex' Tinted Treatment SPF 20
Le Métier de Beauté 'Visage de Soie' Finishing Powder
MAC Marine Life Blush
CHANEL Poudre Lumiere Perlee
Chantecaille Bronzer in St. Barth's

Eyes:
Le Métier de Beauté 'Brow Bound' Eyebrow Pencil
NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base
Giorgio Armani ETK #15
Inglot #404
Le Métier de Beauté Precision Liquid Liner
Le Métier de Beauté 'Dualistic' Eye Pencil in Tamarack (under eye)
Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill Mascara

Lips:
MAC Hibiscus

The Lipstick League - week of 6.20.11

2011-07-02T08:55:00.000-07:00

Question of the Week:

What’s the one shade you wish you could pull off, but can’t?

This is a constant dilemma in my life. I wish I could pull off shades of grey. Every fall beautiful shades of grey are released either in fashion or in cosmetics, and every year I have to wave hello to them from a distance. Why? Well, because grey just does not look good on me. I don't know what it is. Maybe it's the blue undertones in grey, maybe it's my skin tone that doesn't match, maybe it's because I like cranberry juice- who knows, all I know is that grey and I are not friends and I wish we were.

Let's stop being negative and move on to this weeks links...

Clumps of Mascara - has found the blush of all blushes. This one is absolutely gorgeous!

Lipglossiping - channels her inner eyeshadow geek when she swatches her Shiro Cosmetics haul. Come take a peek(achu)!

Nouveau Cheap - is giving away 10 sets of the fab new Milani Glossé Top Coat and Smoothé Base Coat (contest ends midnight on 4th of July)!

Orange to LA - recaps her first IMATS Los Angeles 2011 experience. If you didn’t make it out to IMATS this year you can see what you missed!

Pink Sith - Introduces you to the new Chanel Illusion D’Ombre gel shadows. Will you fall in love with them as much as she has?

Phyrra - falls in love with the Too Faced Eye Love palette and tells you where you can find it.

Vampy Varnish - You can't miss out on these limited edition glosses from Milani.

we heart this - did IMATS last weekend. Wow, did they ever! Check out the haul photos.

Beauty Junkies Unite - Find out why Amber's experience with the Velvet Mineral Pressed Powder Foundation from Amazing Cosmetics didn't wind up being as amazing as she had hoped!

IMATS Los Angeles 2011 Part 2

2011-06-28T16:30:00.000-07:00

IMATS Los Angeles 2011 Part 1 - Click Here.

Saturday at IMATS was pretty crazy. The doors opened at 8:30am, I heard people had been waiting in line since 6:30am. Since I was Press I didn't have to wait in line when I arrived. The line was around the whole inside of the Convention Center, I was shocked! Good thing the wonderful people handling the registration were fast, I noticed the line moved pretty quickly.

Onto the show!

I had to make a stop at Naked Cosmetics. The booth was packed and all the girls working the booth had shirts that read "get Naked", pretty catchy right?

www.nakedcosmetics.net

So many colors to choose from! Each loose powder can be used in numerous ways. Wet an angle brush and these powders can be used as eyeliner. Add a little clear gloss and create your own shade of lip gloss. I love multipurpose products!

I didn't know UNII Palette was going to be at the show. I was surprised when I saw their booth. Their palettes come in a variety of colors, and are perfect to throw into your purse when you're on the go. Or in general if you are a person who likes to depot their eye shadows, or blushes these palettes might be for you.

www.uniicosmetics.com

As you can see UNII palettes can store all of your favorite brands - MAC, NARS, Bobbi Brown, Shu Uemura and much more.

I caught a glimpse of Pursebuzz speaking at Crown Brush as I was walking by.

My favorite stop at IMATS was to Hakuhodo. I was determined to buy a few brushes from their booth regardless if they were offering a discount or not. I had a list of a few brushes I wanted to get and finally I had my chance. I was sad to find the booth not open on Friday, so I had to wait until Saturday, which meant elbowing with girls to get the brushes I wanted. It was all worth the fight. Just kidding, there's no crying in baseball and there's no fighting at IMATS.

The nice people at Hakuhoho were very helpful. Not all of them spoke perfect English but makeup brushes is a language of it's own so we all understood each other. My list of brushes grew once I started playing around and testing all the brushes. A gentleman working the booth helped me pick out the best brushes for what I needed. A foundation brush, concealer brush, eye shadow brush, etc. I left with a credit card in pain and a smile on my face.

A beautiful row of handmade brushes. Check out their website: HERE.

Next to Hakuhdo was the Sugarpill booth. I love Sugarpill, I have a few of their loose shadows, and Amy the creator is too cute. Of course the booth was swarmed with people so I could only walk by and try to snap a few photos.

Ultimate Brush Roll by Trudy Joyce. These brush rolls had me at Rock & Roll. I came across this booth while checking out the UNII palettes. At first glance I thought they were just regular brush rolls, on my second trip around that aisle I realized how different they were. I had to order my brush roll since the girl in front of me got the last white brush roll! I will be posting pictures of my brush roll as soon as I get it. I tried to follow the girl who bought the last white roll, but I lost her in the crowd. The brush roll will. be. mine.

www.ultimatebrushroll.com

I love the different fabrics and lining she uses.

You can fit EVERYTHING in this brush roll.

You can even order accessories for your brush roll.

Mehron!

Kryolan. This guy kinda scared me.

IMATS offers demonstrations and classes where you can sit and learn from the industries finest.

Overwhelming line at INGLOT, I decided to wait until my next Vegas trip to purchase any INGLOT products. I saw my Vegas sales associate at the booth! He is so nice.

IMATS Haul coming soon....

IMATS Los Angeles 2011 Part 1

2011-06-27T17:49:00.000-07:00

This year I was given the opportunity to attend and cover IMATS Los Angeles 2011, which is actually in Pasadena, California. Every year I read blogs, and watch YouTube videos to see IMATS footage, so I was excited that for the first time I was able to attend the event myself.

What is IMATS?

IMATS stands for the International Make-Up Artist Trade Show. IMATS is open to the public and anyone who buys a ticket can attend. Some of the things available to IMATS attendees:

Make-up companies unveil new products, and offer discounts on current products at their booths.
Panel discussions
Classes with professional make-up artist who work in beauty, television, theater, and movies.
Student Competitions - This year the beauty/fantasy competitions theme was Tribal Beauty
Celebrity make-up artist speakers - This year some of the speakers included Valente Frazier (artist to Tyra Banks, and Heidi Klum), Kandee Johnson (YouTube), Kevin James Bennett, David Hernandez (MUFE Artist, artist to Lady Gaga, Bijou Phillips, Tilda Swinton, etc), David Klasfeld (Creator/owner of Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics), and many more.

IMATS was a lot of fun, it is a great trade show. The vendors are amazing and to have them together under one roof is a little scary, one could go broke very easily. IMATS is well put together and professional, they do a wonderful job, everyone from vendors to security are nice and helpful. I was lucky and ran into the wonderful Stef Andrews and Tyna Werner creators of we heart this on Friday at the Royal & Langnickel event. We all were attending IMATS Friday Pro-Only Night which was open only to press and professional make-up artists. We ended up meeting Saturday at IMATS too. It was great not having to "do IMATS" alone, plus they are make-up fiends as well!

Enough chatter, onto the show!

Since I knew that Make Up For Ever would be the hardest booth to get to Saturday I decided to hit that booth on Friday Pro Night so that I could shop while it was empty. Waiting times for MUFE on Saturday & Sunday were between 1-3 hours!

See how easy it was shopping MUFE on Friday?

Next stop was Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics (OCC) where I got to meet David Klasfeld creator and owner of OCC. David is young, and was super nice, he knows his business and acknowledges the "power" of bloggers. He knew right away who my friend Stef was from seeing her badge, he knew her website and acknowledged how many people visit his website because of we heart this. I couldn't get over how down-to-earth he was.

OCC Cosmetic Glitter

OCC Lip Tar

OCC Loose Colour Concentrates

Napoleon Perdis was a sponsor this year at IMATS, they had a huge booth with products to purchase and artists doing mini makeovers. They had displays of their new Prismatic Eye Shadow Quads, Color Discs, Loose Eye Dusts, and Eye Pencils.

Once again, it was great seeing the booths on Friday, it was so easy to meet the artist and ask questions.

Another great stop at IMATS was to the Royal & Langnickel booth. I was on a brush kick and really wanted to see and purchase brushes. I attended a Royal & Langnickel event and was impressed with their presentation and concept on brushes. I was excited to hit their booth and see the other brushes in their line.

That is Miss Mexico on the left getting her makeup applied with Royal & Langnickel brushes.

This gorgeous Pink Brush Essentials Set comes with 13 brushes, in either a brush roll or zipper pouch. You can purchase the set with either Synthetic Hair, or Natural Hair. This set retails for $49.99.

This set is apart of Royal & Langnickel's SILK Green Line. This set comes with 12 brushes, has 100% Bamboo Handles, and comes in a cork case. This set is so cute, and great for any customers seeking Eco-friendly brushes.

MAC PRO was at IMATS again this year. Their booth was as busy was MUFE. I walked over there but thought it was way too crowded and not worth getting pushed and elbowed. I still snapped a few photos of the craziness at their booth. I noticed most of the people working the booths at IMATS were very nice, not stuck up, they made you feel comfortable asking questions, they explained their lines and what their brand was about. Even though they were also selling products I never felt pushed to buy something. They let you play, swatch, and take photos without expecting anything in return.

PART TWO IS HERE!

Pre IMATS Post: Brands I Want To See

2011-06-23T14:40:00.000-07:00

I will be attending IMATS this weekend, actually I'll be there Friday and Saturday. If I'm not dead tired or if I missed something I will also be there Sunday. If any ladies are going and want to meet up message me on Twitter, I always have my phone with me. I will also be attending a few pre-IMATS and post-IMATS events, I will be posting re-caps and and sharing with you all weekend. I'm sure you will be sick of IMATS come Monday. But until then:

In honor of IMATS I am going to share with you the brands I'm most excited to see-

Hakuhodo Brushes - www.hakuhodousa.com

I have become familiar with these brushes through The Non-Blonde, I can't wait to purchase a few of the brushes she has recommended on her blog. Some of my brushes are so old, and even though they have been with me through thick and thin, through taupe and turquoise, I figure it's time to replace a few.

Make Up For Ever - www.makeupforever.com/

Make Up For Ever usually has a great discount (40%) on products at their booth. I have been saving up to buy the few liquid Aqua Liners, and maybe a few more of the Aqua Creams, if you follow my blog you know I love the Aqua Creams.

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics - www.occmakeup.com/

OCC is a favorite at IMATS. I have wanted to try a few of their famous lip tars forever, but for some reason I have yet to purchase any. Hopefully I will get a few this year.

Royal & Langnickel - www.royalbrush.com

I am in need of new brushes so a lot of my stops will be at brush booths. I'm attending a Royal & Langnickel event pre-IMATS so I hope to see a few of their new products before the craziness of IMATS. I see brush reviews in my future.

Sugarpill - www.sugarpillshop.com/

I already own a few Sugarpill loose shadows, but a girl can always own more. Right? I hear Sugarpill is having a good discount if you buy at the show so make sure to check them out. I need to add a few more colors to my collection. It's funny, I'm a neutral eye girl but Sugarpill brings the 90's riotgurrrl right out of me.

Embryolisse - www.embryolisseusa.com/

Embryolisse is easily one of my favorite skincare brands, I have been using their 24hr Moisturizer for a long time now. I am on my second tube, and for a girl like me who changes skincare items monthly that speaks volumes. I was surprised to see their name on the list of exhibitors, I hope I didn't read that wrong. Oh please IMATS don't be messing with me! I can't wait to see all their products in person and meet some of their representatives.

Violent Lips - www.violentlips.com/

I want to check out this brand at IMATS, not so much because I want to buy anything but I really want to see what it's all about. If you haven't heard of Violent Lips before they are temporary lip tattoos. Yeah, you read that correctly. So if you ever wanted leopard print lips this brand might be for you. I'll let you guys know what I think after I see them.

Naked Cosmetics - www.nakedcosmetics.net/

This brand is at IMATS every year, and is pretty famous with YouTube gurus. I want to see what they are all about. I'm not really into loose products because I'm a klutz, but I have to admit I have always wanted to see their products in person.

Who is going to IMATS this year?

What brands are you excited to see?

Le Metier de Beaute National Artist Event

2011-06-22T22:59:00.000-07:00

The Nordstroms Santa Monica had a National Artist Event with Le Metier de Beaute makeup artist Erin Lockard. Once I found this out I knew I had to go and have Erin do my makeup. Let me tell you, I had a horrible migraine that morning, the event was on a Saturday and I had this migraine since Thursday night. I was still not feeling good when I left the house in the morning. Of course, that would all change once I got to Nordstroms.

This event was a little different than most of Nordstroms Artist Events I have attended. Le Metier de Beaute had partnered up with Arcona skincare, and Arcona was giving mini facials to each client before they had their makeup done. I had a wonderful, refreshing, and relaxing facial with Sheila from Arcona. My skin was bright, awake, beautiful and completely ready for Erin to apply makeup.

I have to admit I am very hard to please when it comes to someone else doing my makeup. In the last 10 years I have probably only ever let someone else do my makeup 5 times, and in those 5 experiences I have only liked my makeup 2 times. I even did my own makeup for my wedding. My husband always gets mad when I mention the idea of someone else doing my makeup, he thinks I apply my makeup better than any makeup artist. Oh, Mr. Orange2LA is a very well trained husband. However, I was confident that Le Metier de Beaute was going to do a great job. So I came prepared with what I wanted, and what I wanted was a look using my new and beloved Penelope Kaleidoscope.

Items used -

Face:

Peau Vierge Correcteur Concealer in Frais
Peau Vierge Anti Aging Complex Tinted Treatment SPF 20 in Shade 2
Visage de Soie Finishing Powder #3
Bronzer in Sunkissed
Creme Fresh Tint for Lip and Cheek in Ginger Lily

Eyes:

Dualistic Eye Pencil in Tamarack
Penelope Kaleidoscope
Precision Liquid Liner in Noir
Anamorphic Lash Mascara Aubergine

Lips:

Sheer Brilliance Lip Gloss in Bondi Beach

Face:

First Erin applied Peau Vierge Concealer to my under eye area, around my nose where most woman tend to get red, and on a few places on my cheeks that are discolored. Next she took the wonderful and soft Le Metier de Beaute Kabuki Brush and applied Peau Vierge Anti Aging Complex Tinted Treatment to my face. Since I am not in love with any of the powders I currently own I asked her to use the Visage de Soie Powder so I could see if I liked it. Next she filled in my eyebrows with Brow Bound Eyebrow Pencil in Brunette. Erin used the Le Metier de Beaute Bronzer in Sunkissed to contour my face and applied a little Cream Fresh Tint in Ginger Lily to my cheeks using the LMDB Blush Brush.

Eyes:

Erin used Dualistic Eye Pencil in Tamarack as a lid primer and smudged the pencil over my lids. Next she took a Flat Eyeliner Brush and started applying the shadows from my Penelope Kaleidoscope using the 'Couches de Coleur' technique. The Couches de Coleur technique is Le Metier de Beaute's signature technique of layering eye shadows over each other. This technique creates a Kaleidoscope look where the lines blend and you can not be see where they meet. Next she lined my eyes with the Precision Liquid Liner in Noir, curled and coated my lashes with Anamorphic Lash Mascara in Aubergine. I was a little scared when she pulled out the Aubergine mascara but the color really added more depth to the look.

Lips:

Last but not least Erin applied Sheer Brilliance Lip Gloss in Bondi Beach to my lips.

I loved my makeup, I knew I was going to like it, but I didn't know I was going to love it. I ended up purchasing way too much. I already had the concealer, and the Penelope Kalidoscope so I purchased a few of the other items and left feeling and looking great. If Le Metier de Beaute is having an event near you I highly recommend checking it out.

Just to let you know, I left without a migraine. =)

Thanks Erin, Sheila, Nordstroms Santa Monica, and Neeraj!!

I tried to re-apply this look at home a few days later.

Coming Soon: Le Metier de Beaute

2011-06-21T22:41:00.000-07:00

The items I purchased during my makeover, coming soon...

The Doves Studio & Style Wax Poetic Afternoon Blogger Event

2011-06-20T22:49:00.000-07:00

I was excited to be invited to a wonderful blogger event held at The Doves Studio. The event was hosted by a fellow LA-based blogger Style Wax Poetic. The Doves Studio is a salon located at 2000 Main St, in beautiful Santa Monica. Guests were offered complimentary services; blowouts by The Doves Studio, manicures, and mini makeovers by Lauren Dee and Burke Daniel. On display at the event were Caitlin Nicole's new summer jewelry collection, and sunglasses by R.A.E.N optics.

My first stop was a makeover with makeup artist Burke Daniel, I arrived at the event right after getting off work so I still had a little makeup on. Embarrassed, I apologized.

"I'm sorry I just came from work and I'm a mess."

Burke smiled and simply said:

"I love your blue eyeliner"

I laughed, with his perfect blonde hair and warm smile I couldn't help but be in a good mood. Well, I'm sure the strong cocktail in my hand helped too. Burke gave me a bright summer look, fierce purple eyes, simple cheeks and pink lips, all while the DJ behind me spun dance music. Now that my face was ready for a night out, it was on to my hair.

Next stop was a wash and blow dry with The Doves Studio owner Sonya Dove. Sonya is amazing, she made my hair shiny, smooth, bouncy, with a hint of curl. While in her chair she offered me not only the wonderful blow dry but tips and ideas of what I should be doing with my hair. I stepped out of that bright orange chair agreeing to anything Sonja suggested.

Ultimately Sonya suggested I get the Brazilian Straightening, which I did end up getting a few days later. Look for a post on that experience to come soon.

Thanks to The Doves Studio and Style Poetic Wax for a great event.

The Lipstick League - week of 6.13.11

2011-06-19T09:19:00.000-07:00

Question of the Week:

How long does it take you to get ready in the morning?

Oh man, this is an embarrassing question. If I'm just running errands and don't really need to "get ready" well I can be out of the house in 20mins- ponytail, blush, mascara, chucks, and a cardigan. It takes me an abnormal amount of time to get out of the house, if I'm going somewhere that counts. My hair alone can take 45 minutes, add that to a 30 min shower and already we are at an hour and fifteen minutes. On to makeup, depending on the look I'm going for applying my makeup can take between 20-30 minutes. Now we are at what? An hour and 45 minutes? Picking out clothes and accessories take at least another 30 minutes. Overall I would say I need to start getting ready 3 hours before I have to leave the house. That also brings me to Reason #23 of why my husband thinks I'm crazy.

Let's stop being nuts and check out this weeks beauty links...

Beauty Junkies Unite - Find out if the new COVERGIRL Intense ShadowBlast Primer + Rich Color Eye Color shades will rock your world...or not!

Clumps of Mascara - is in love with Pixiwoo’s Real Technique brushes. They are totally this year’s Best Dressed as far as makeup brushes go.

EauMG - Four-legged guest fragrance commentator, Frink the Frug, reviews his summer fragrance obsession, LUSH Dirty.

Lipglossiping - chills out with MAC’s Magically Cool Liquid Powder and discovers a new fav!

Nouveau Cheap - Father’s Day is the rare occasion when a splurge can be totally guilt-free. Need an elegant last-minute gift for dad? Check out the new L’Occitane Verdon Collection of men’s grooming products.

Orange to LA - takes a stroll down memory lane with A Smell To Remember, a post about perfumes from her past.

Pink Sith - Joeybunny introduces you to three Missha BB creams. Are they the bees knees? Read and find out!

Phyrra’s - Independent Spotlight for June is with Belén from Lost in Makeupland!

we heart this - take a quicker and easier route to glamour with the Urban Decay Urban Lask kit.

So ladies, are you a 5 minute ready girl or a 'just leave without me I'm not ready yet' kinda girl?

Color Inspiration & Coordination: Hot Pink

2011-06-18T18:52:00.000-07:00

Color inspiration. We get inspired everyday by different things, whether it's a piece of jewelry, shoes, a handbag, or scarf. We see items and create entire looks around them. I am starting a new series here on Orange2LA called 'Color Inspiration & Coordination' where I will take an item of mine and use it to coordinate with items in my makeup collection. I hope it's fun and that you will like it. For my first post in this series I decided to choose hot pink. This weeks inspiration: my hot pink Louis Vuitton bag. I brought this bag out of my stash for summer and decided to coordinate this bag with hot pink lipstick.

My favorite hot pink lipsticks:

Dior 678 Rose Diablotine
MAC Barbie Rocking Chick
MAC Hello Kitty Frost Strayin'
MAC Heatherette Hollywood Nights (my absolute favorite!)
Urban Decay Mini Lip Junkie Lipgloss in Crush - hot pink
Inglot AMC Lipgloss 544

As you can see, I love hot pink lipstick.

Wearing MAC Hollywood Nights

Ladies, what inspires you? Do you coordinate your makeup looks?

Summer Highlighters

2011-06-15T08:26:00.000-07:00

We have talked about Summer Eye Looks, and a few Summer Lip Glosses, but today let's talk about one of my favorite makeup products: highlighters. I have numerous highlighters; some are powder either pressed or loose, cream, or in stick/pen form. During the summer I'm more inclined to use cream form highlighters, I think summer skin is supposed to look dewy, and glowy, in my opinion cream highlighters work best for that affect. I still use my powder products but I notice I grab more for the creams.

NARS Illuminator in Copacabana
This was in my April/May Favorites post. I love this product, it is easy to use, and a little goes a long way, I think this tube will last forever. At first I thought with all the hype surrounding this product that I might be disappointed, but absolutely not. I love this highlighter and it is usually the first one I grab for. I squeeze a little product onto the back of my hand and with a MAC 109 brush I buff a little Copacabana onto my skin.

Le Metier de Beaute Marchesa Sheer Illumination Highlighter
For a long time I used YSL Touche Eclat, I didn't love it and I don't know why I continued to use it for so long. So when I purchased the LMDB pen I didn't rush to use it. I recently started using it and really enjoy it. I love that being in pen form makes this highlighter uber easy and convenient to use. A few swipes a few dabs, and you're ready to go. It also is great for on-the-go days where you need to slip a few extra products into your makeup bag.

Dior Lace Face Highlighting Powder
I purchased this last year, I didn't want to use it for the longest time. In the pan it's a pretty iridescent light pink color. The powder is finely milled and feels very smooth on the face. I still don't like to over use this highlighter because it's so pretty but it has become one of my favorites.

MAC Chez Chez Lame
I love this subtle champagne colored highlighter. It does not contain thick chunks of glitter just a nice amount of shimmer it's also very smooth. This highlighter will look good over a matte blush or just on it's own.

MAC Soft and Gentle Mineralize Skinfinish
Oh, Soft and Gentle what a tangled web we weave. Soft and Gentle and I have a love/hate relationship. I will use this product every day for a week, I love it, it's the greatest thing ever. Then the next week, I hate it and can't figure out why I continue to use it. This has been going on for 2 years. What I like: the golden color, the product itself is smooth, it's pigmented and you don't need a lot, I have had this in my collection for over 2 years, I think. What I don't like: contains a little too much glitter/shimmer, gives more of a sheen than a glow, a little lasts a long time I don't think I will ever make a dent in it!

Laneige Shimmering Multi Cream
This is another product I have had in my collection for quite some time. A little goes a long way, and this product is very user friendly. It can be used in so many different ways. You can add a little to your moisturizer or foundation for a pretty glow. You can wear it under or over your foundation in certain areas to highlighter. You can even wear it alone. Laneige is not that hard to find, it can be purchased online at numerous online retailers or can be purchased at The Amore store. If you're in California look out for them, I've driven past at least 6 all over the area.

MAC Vanilla Pigment
Another multi-purpose product. Vanilla pigment can be used in different ways, you can use it as a highlighter: just apply with a brush on your brow bone, inner eye area, down your nose, and a little on your cheeks. Or mix a little into your foundation, or moisturizer for an all over glow. This is another product where a little goes a long way. MAC Vanilla pigment has been a staple in my collection for a very long time.

From Left to Right: LMDB, Laneige, NARS, MAC Vanilla, MAC Chez Chez Lame, MAC Soft & Gentle, Dior

Milani 3D Glitzy Glamour Gloss

2011-06-14T10:47:00.000-07:00

I was killing time by strolling through my local Walgreen's with one of my girlfriends when I came across these Milani lip glosses. Normally, I'm not a huge drugstore makeup fan, I love to look around and see all the products lined up and see what new things are out. But I usually only purchase eye liners, mascara, and sometimes foundations that promise to change my life. Come on, you know we all do it. But my drugstore "hauling" usually stops there. Somehow these Milani glosses really jumped out at me.

Starshine
Designer Label
Fashion Diva

Milani 3D Glitzy Glamour Gloss - Price Varies

New soft and brilliant Glitzy formula filled with super shiny polymers and the next

generation of pearls to create the illusion of 3D depth for fuller, sexier, looking lips.

Available in spectacular 7 shades.

I chose 3 colors: Starshine, which is light pink with a purple undertone and lots of sparkles. Designer Label is a coral color with lots of sparkles, and Fashion Diva is a violet pink color with lots of sparkles. In the tube the glosses look very bright and bold, but on the lips the colors are more sheer, and besides the massive amount of sparkles are actually very wearable. The glosses are a little sticky and feel slippery on my lips, they have a very wet look once applied. These Milani glosses remind me so much of MAC Dazzleglass. MAC Dazzleglass are $18.50 and the Milani 3D Glitzy Glamour Gloss are on average about $6.99 or course with coupons and sales you can find them for 1-2 dollars less. In my opinion if you can't afford the MAC ones these are a great dupe.

I only get around 1-2 hours of wear out of these glosses, which is not great, I have to re-apply often. But for the price I don't mind carrying them around with me, if I lose one it's not a big deal. The packaging is cute but the tube is a little bulky, these glosses have brush applicators, I personally like the doe-foot applicators but that's just me. Overall I think these glosses are fun, the colors are great for summer and the sparkles really stand out. Would I repurchase? I might check out the other colors...

Starshine

Designer Label

Fashion Diva

Drugstore lip glosses, yes or no? Have you tried any Milani 3D Glitzty Glosses?

A Smell To Remember...

2011-06-12T12:46:00.000-07:00

Our first kiss was awkward yet sweet; Tommy Boy cologne (obviously a gift from an ex-girlfriend) in the air mingled with the smell of fabric softener (his freshly washed t-shirt). At the time I didn't know what cologne he was wearing, I didn't find out until months later. Now, some 10 years later, and countless bottles of cologne given to him for birthdays and Christmas- he still only wears Tommy Boy. I can't believe they still make it. Why can't I get my husband to change colognes? What is with men and change?

My late teen years were drowned in a mist of Lancome's Poeme. I had picked it out after taking one of those quizzes you find in magazines like:

"What's Your Signature Scent"

or

"What Scent Fits Your Personality"

something along those lines. This quiz decided that Poeme seemed to "fit" my personality. How answering 5 stupid questions in a magazine could tell you anything about a person is beyond me. But at 16 I was sold. I loved that perfume, I wore it everyday. I received compliments on my perfume which only made me spray more on day after day.

My mother wore Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche for a majority of my childhood. Whenever I see that cobalt blue bottle I think of my childhood and my mother. Watching her put on her makeup and getting ready for a night out with my father, I couldn't wait to grow up and have such a fascinating life.

I have a best friend whom I have known since middle school. She was girlie and I was a little bit tom-boyish. In high school we both bloomed. I became girlie and started rocking my beloved Poeme while she wore her favorite Estee Lauder Pleasures like a badge of honor. I asked her while writing this post if she remembered

"That perfume you wore in high school?"

She laughs, "Of course, you mean Pleasures? I use to love that perfume"

Our taste in scents have changed, we've grown up and found new things. My dresser is covered with half empty perfume bottles, and yet it's the old perfumes with the memories that bring me my most pleasure. Some of my memories are hazy, but the smells attached to them are strange meaningful reminders of my youth and a time that has long past.

My best friend changes her perfume as often as she changes her clothes, everyday it's something different. She says it depends on her mood and believe it or not it depends on what she's wearing. It might sound crazy but the girl makes men weak in the knees, so what can I say- it's working for her.

These days I change my perfume according to my mood or who I might be seeing. If I'm visiting my Grandparents I want to seem young, fresh, and sweet, so I wear Miss Dior Cherie. They bought a bottle for me a few years ago (2002?) on a trip we took together to Paris. They love the smell and it reminds them of that time so I always keep a bottle handy. If I'm feeling sultry and confident I wear Agent Provocateur (their signature fragrance), the husband loves it or Miller Harris L'Air de Rien. If I'm feeling quirky I wear Lulu Guinness 'Life Is A Bed Of Roses' perfume, bought in London at Harrods. A day with my Mother usually means Bond No.9 The Scent of Peace, she loves the smell. My office calls for something a little more subtle yet assertive so Bvlgari Jasmine Noir makes an appearance regularly.

I recently bought another bottle of Tommy Boy for my husband- sorry Chanel and Giorgio Armani, I tried but he simply said no. I think I will be 90 years old and still think of our first kiss every time he wears that cologne. I feel safe and young again when I bury my face into his collar and breathe in that spicy citrus smell. Nothing feels more like home.

My mother was showing me the hats she wore at the Kentucky Derby, I glanced at her dresser and among her impressive perfume collection I spotted that cobalt blue bottle. Her life is still fascinating.

What are your scent memories, what smells do you remember?

The Lipstick League - week of 6.6.11

2011-06-11T09:05:00.000-07:00

Question of the Week:

Tell us what’s in your purse right now...

I am writing this from work, so I have my work purse which usually contains a lot of crap. Currently I have work essentials items in my bag: wallet, makeup bag, iPhone, iPhone charger, brush, Milkita Strawberry Milk Candy, Earbuds (for my iPhone), sunglasses, work related stack of papers, car charger for my iPhone - why do I have both chargers in my purse? Neutrogena Sunblock - I didn't know that was in here, and keys. Pretty boring right? Well my co-worker just walked through the door with my morning coffee so...

Here are this weeks links...

we heart this - takes a look at MAC's Beauty Balm. If you're the right candidate, you may just have an HG on your hands...

Beauty Junkies Unite - Amber test drives the new COVERGIRL NatureLuxe Mousse Mascara to see if it's worth picking up on your next drugstore beauty adventure!

Clumps of Mascara - has a guest editor show us lovely swatches of the MAC Surf Baby collection. See any must haves?

EauMG - EauMG reviews a limited edition Thierry Mugler men’s fragrance just in time for Father’s Day. It’s so good you may just want it for yourself!

Lipglossiping - takes you on a tour around her small but perfectly formed BB Cream collection!

Nouveau Cheap - is in love with NYC’s new Liquid Lipshines and wants to share the love with you. Enter now for a chance to win all ten shades!

Orange to LA - is getting colorful with Bright Eyes For Summer, see her swatches for ways to mix-n-match neutral eye shadows with fun, bright, bold eyeliner!

Pink Sith - Gives you a sneak peak at one of the NEW Chanel Ombre Essentielle Eyeshadows being released in late July. And Yes. It’s TAUPE!

Phyrra - takes a trip to Siberia with NARS Sheer Glow foundation.

Chantecaille Compact Soleil Bronzer in Capri

2011-06-09T11:58:00.000-07:00

Chantecaille Compact Soleil Bronzer in Capri - $45.00

Chantecaille, oh how you have ruined me.

Before Capri came my way the only Chantecaille products I was familiar with were their wonderful eye shadow palettes. Recently a reader and fellow makeup addict convinced my to try the Chantecaille Capri bronzer, then not a day later Best Things In Beauty posted a blog about Chantecaille's newest bronzer color St. Barths. I couldn't decide which one I wanted, so I did the only thing any self respecting girl could do. I bought both.

I'm still waiting for St. Barth's to arrive but until then I am playing with Capri everyday.

Compact Soleil delivers a gorgeous, sun-kissed look in just one quick brushstroke. Using the latest micronizing technology, this bronzer creates an ultra-fine, lightweight powder for an incredibly silky and natural finish. Ginkgo Biloba and Wild Rose heal and protect, leaving the skin smooth and radiant. Comes in a slim mirrored compact.

Originally I choose Capri because I had read in a few places that Capri was supposed to have a pink/rose undertone. In person I can not honestly say I see anything pinkish or rose in the coloring. On my skin (NC25), the color is a very natural tan color. This would be a great bronzer for lighter skinned girls who have a problem finding a bronzer that is not orange.

Left: Concentrated Swatch, Right: Blended Out Swatch

Chantecaille Capri is silky and creamy, it feels velvety on the skin. The bronzer is matte which is a huge plus for me, I can wear it in a few different ways. If I want shine or shimmery I can top it off with a highlighter, if I wear it to the office I can leave it matte and not worry about looking like a disco ball. Capri blends seamlessly into the skin. Usually with other bronzers I have to work hard to get the right look- applying the color, blending, then more blending, sometimes even more blending just to get the desired affect. I don't think I should not have to work that hard with a product. Chantecaille's Capri made it simple, it didn't fight back with me, it just sat on my skin beautifully.

Capri is truly a gorgeous bronzer, I thought I would never find another bronzer besides my Chanel bronzer that I would like. I realized bronzers are great and can really add a beautiful natural glow to your skin if you find the right one. Now my wolf-pack of bronzers has grown to 4!

Giorgio Armani Sheer Blush #4 Sand
Chantecaille Compact Soleil Bronzer Capri
Paul & Joe 'Twin Fish' Bronzer
Soleil Tan De Chanel Bronze Universel

From Left To Right: Giorgio Armani, Paul & Joe, Chantecaille, Chanel- Review Here.

These are my favorite bronzers so far this summer. I'm waiting to test my new Dior Aurora and Chantecaille St. Barths. So my bronzer wolf-pack might grow to 6!