The Shades Of U Makeup

Weekend Beauty Reads from The Beauty Blog Network 01.29.12

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 16:55:00 +0000

Sheila from Painted Ladies has nothing but good things to say about CoverGirl’s Blastflipstick Blendable Lip Duo.

Phyrra shows you a lovely purple look with L'Oreal Perpetual Purple and Fyrinnae Cuddlefish.

The Shades Of U features swatches, review, and a look using NARS Spring 2012 products.

Blue Cross Snowman and Pumpkin Nail Polish Swatches

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 23:33:00 +0000

I should have posted these swatches at least three months ago! I found amazingly cute snowmen and pumpkin polishes filled with hex glitters and smaller glitters, and I was over the moon with excitement! I couldn't wait to use them by themselves or over other polishes. Here are swatches of the Snowman/Pumpkin polishes that I have (no names):

Which ones are your fave?

Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Concealer Swatches and Review

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:30:00 +0000

I was able to try a couple of shades from the Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Concealer (wow what a mouthful!) line. I had always been curious about this product because I tried Maybelline concealers in the past and they were pretty good, but it was my first time to use one in a sponge-rollerball form. I was sent a product sample in the Light shade, but I felt it was too light for my skintone. With flash photography, it seemed that I had the reverse raccoon eyes- too light under the eye area. I went ahead and got the Medium shade, and it was perfect for my skintone. I also think the Medium has a yellow undertone which is perfect for my warm skin.

120 Light, 130 Medium

120 Light, 130 Medium

As you can see, Medium is more yellow-based and Light is pinkier. Medium is just perfect for me.

The product applies well on the undereye are, as well as those hard-to-reach crevices on the inner corner of the eye. The roller is perfect to apply on those tight corners. The consistency is pretty good, very even, does not create patches on the skin. It does cover dark circles effectively, and I like to set it with a salmon-colored mineral concealer. However, on certain days that I lack sleep and have extremely dark circles, I apply a thicker concealer on top. Most days, though, this works quite well, and I like how invisible it looks underneath my makeup.

Wearing Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Concealer in Medium

This is my everyday go-to undereye circle concealer of late. I love the ease in application, great packaging, good coverage, and the lack of patchy or splotchy areas when applied. This is not a thick concealer, though, so if you have sunken eyes from lack of sleep, you may need something more than this. I like this though and love how it blends into my skin without giving a telltale sign of its existence.

Pros: Great packaging (love the roller), ease in application, affordable price, good coverage, looks very natural

Cons: May be too thin in consistency for somebody with very dark circles.

The Shades Of U Rating: 4.25 out of 5 stars

Note: Media sample was provided by a representative of the company for consideration. All opinions are completely mine.

NARS Makeup Removing Water Review

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 22:36:00 +0000

Soap-free, oil-free, alcohol-free. These are the words NARS used to describe the new Makeup Removing Water. This water-based makeup remover is so popular backstage during fashion week because it takes off makeup without leaving any residue, so new makeup can be applied immediately thereafter. No need to wash the face prior to applying another round of makeup, which is best for fashion shows where time is of the essence. NARS came up with its own version that its consumers can use at home, far from the glare of klieg lights. Infused with cucumber, chamomile and hyaluronic acid, NARS claims that it makes skin feel and look brighter, cleaner, refreshed.

So I put it to the test. The day I used it, I applied a mix of Revlon Colorstay and Revlon Photoready foundations on my face, two full coverage foundations. I also used concealer, setting powder, blush, and full eye makeup.

This is how one of my cotton pads soaked in NARS Makeup Removing Water looked after cleansing my face:

It easily took off the full-coverage foundations, concealers, bronzer, and even my blush. On another soaked cotton pad, I took off my eye makeup and it removed my eye brow mousse, eye shadows, even mascara. The only thing that this product wasn't able to remove was my waterproof liquid eye liner from Wet n Wild (which was so hard to remove even with an oil-based eye makeup remover!). Best of all, this is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and dermatologist/ophthalmologist-tested.

I was impressed by how good this product took off the gunk on my face, and yet it didn't leave any greasy or filmy residue. It is exactly how it describes itself- water! It has the refreshing, cleansing, purifying properties of water, and yet it cleanses and takes off makeup much better than water. This is great for people who need to take off their makeup in a snap, like people who came from work and going to the gym, or people who need to freshen up before an event. However, this is also great for your nightly cleansing regimen. I used this prior to washing my face with my Philosophy Purity Made Simple cleaner using my Clarisonic Classic facial cleansing brush. This procedure really helped my skin look pure, toned, very clean. Best of all, this felt really gentle on my acne-prone skin, and it never broke me out. It comes in a pretty big bottle and can last you a decent amount of time. I am really loving this Makeup Removing Water from NARS.

The only downside I can see is that this will probably not take out the most stubborn Waterproof makeup you have, but it will take out foundation, face makeup, and most shadows, liners, and water-based mascaras.

SRP: $28
Available January 2012 at www.narscosmetics.com

The Shades Of U Rating: 4.75 out of 5 stars

Note: Media sample was provided by a representative of the company for consideration. All opinions are completely mine.

Bayberry Naturals Organic Skincare: Body Scrub and Buttercream Review

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:54:00 +0000

Lavender Buttercream, Turmeric & Citrus Clarifying Body Scrub

Body Scrub

Lavender Buttercream

I've had the opportunity to try Bayberry Naturals skincare products, a 100% organic skin and hair care collection designed for men, women and children that launched in 2011.

I've always enjoyed natural and organic products as I'd like to use skincare products that are free from sulfates, parabens, fillers, artificial fragrances and dyes. In this instance, I was able to try two products from Bayberry Naturals, their Turmeric and Citrus Clarifying Butterscrub and the Lavender Buttercream. It is the owner's philosophy that skincare products are more effective and gentle when all unnecessary ingredients are stripped away, leaving only the purest, most essential oils left to cleanse and purify.

First of all, let me say that I am loving the Turmeric and Citrus Clarifying Butter Scrub. It comes in a huge tub with 12.6 oz/357 g of product. It smells so amazingly refreshing and delicious, kinda like lemon pound cake! The exfoliating beads are actually sea salt, and it is infused with Grapefruit Essential Oil, neem and turmeric. It is perfect for oily or combination skin, and the grapefruit oil brings back moisture to re-balance the skin. I tried it in the shower and I loved how it gently sloughed away dead skin cells on my knees, elbows, heels and even my face, gently revealing brighter, smoother, more supple skin. Most of all, it does not contain pthalates, parabens or any artificial fragrances. This is a staple in my shower stall now.

The Buttercream I tried is Lavender-infused, and contains Shea Butter, Organic Jojoba Oil, Mango Butter, Vitamin E, and Evening Primrose Oil. It made my skin really soft and smooth without feeling too greasy. The only thing that I didn't like is that it is lavender-infused, which as we all know is soothing to the body and makes us relax and fall into a deep sleep. I usually shower in the mornings so I need something that will energize and invigorate me.

All in all, I am liking this line especially the body scrub, and maybe the buttercream if I try a different scent other than lavender. These are really good quality products, and the clincher is that these are 100% organic and cruelty-free (not tested on animals). You can purchase these products at www.bayberrynaturals.com

Note: Media sample was provided by a representative of the company for consideration. All opinions are completely mine.

Bobbi Brown Spring 2012: Rose Gold Collection

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:51:00 +0000

Available: February 2012 at Bobbi Brown counters and www.bobbibrown.com

NARS Spring 2012 Swatches & Review: Paramaribo, Mexican Rose, Gaiety

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:28:00 +0000

Paramaribo eyeshadow duo, Gaiety blush
Mexican Rose Velvet Gloss lip pencil

I have some of the products from the new NARS Spring 2012 collection. I have even used them during a dinner party, and I really liked the combination of these products. This collection is a marriage of bright, playful hues balanced by rich, toned-down shades. Here are some swatches and my thoughts on the products that I have.

Gaiety Blush:

Gaeity blush

Gaiety blush is a very spring-y matte bubblegum pink blush. The name does describe itself- the blushing pink shade is reminiscent of the flush on one's cheeks after a happy, blissful walk in cold weather. I also like that it doesn't have shimmer but more of just a simple, matte look. This reminds me of Angelika blush but without the shimmer. I like that it applied well on the cheeks with a soft, slightly tapered oval blush. No splotchy patches seen, which is great. (Will post a photo tonight wearing Gaiety.)

All in all, I can't see anybody going wrong with this blush. I have warm skintones and I thought that this would look weird on me, but the blush didn't translate too cool on my skin. This is great for winter, but it would be a lovely blush for spring and summer, as well. Performance is typical NARS: really pigmented, great finish and texture, and lasted a full 6-8 hours on my cheeks.

Paramaribo Eye Shadow Duo

This eye shadow duo called Paramaribo is named after the capital of Surinam, a tropical state in South America. It bespeaks of the lush tropical forests as depicted by its brass and bronze hues with strong green tones. The first time I saw this, I quickly fell in love with it. I did a look with it combined with a sparkly black and NARS' All About Eve eye shadow duo as highlighter, and I was not disappointed:

Using Paramaribo eye shadow duo

Love how the shades complement my brown eyes!

I even use this duo for work and it gives an usual shade on the lids, but still keeps the entire look neutral and office-friendly. Love this duo, I'm pretty sure this will be used often.

Mexican Rose Velvet Gloss lip pencil

Mexican Rose was a pleasant surprise. I'd thought that it would be just your regular chubby lip pencil, but I'm surprised that it is amazingly pigmented and it has a nice shine to it, kind of a combination of the pigmentation of a lipstick and the shine of a gloss. It is not sticky though, unlike a lipgloss. It has shimmer, but not the tacky kind. Mexican Rose is a nice cherry red that is so pretty on the lips. I was amazed that it was really pigmented:

Wearing Mexican Rose, Paramaribo eye shadow duo and Gaiety blush

The only downside however is that this can stain your lips. Otherwise, it is really pigmented and this could be your lipliner, lipstick and lip gloss in one. Talk about a multi-tasking product!

All in all, I am a liking the NARS Spring 2012 collection pieces that I have. There are certainly bright hues like Mexican Rose, but the shades are not garish and definitely wearable. The richness of the eye shadow duo gives depth and beautiful color to the lid, and I really like the brass and greens in Paramaribo. Lastly, Gaiety blush is a must for those who crave a girly-girl flush- a pretty bubblegum pink that can be worn any time of the year. The best part for me is that it is matte, so you can also wear it any time of the day or night. The ones I have are my favorite shades from the collection and I am impressed with the performance as well.

The Shades Of U Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Available: January 15, 2012 at www.narscosmetics.com

Note: Media sample was provided by a representative of the company for consideration. All opinions are completely mine.

Knockout Nails UV Nail Hardening System Discount for The Shades Of U Readers

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 19:10:00 +0000

Knockout Nails pack: 2-minute Drying Polish and 2-minute Knockout Nails Top Coat

Knockout Nails System: Cleaner, Bonder, Hardener, File file, Smooth file, Remover file

Knockout Nails System: Step-1-and-4-Cleaner, Step-2-Bonder, Step-3-Hardener

Hi everyone! I mentioned in my Knockout Nails UV Nail Hardening System Review that this system is one of the best things that ever happened to my nails. I have brittle nails and I hate how my polish peels off my nails after as little as 24 hours. I've been using this system for three months now, and I am so loving how nice and long these made my nails look. They also make my nails as hard as iron and they don't peel or break off as often as they used to. My polish also lasts a lot longer on my nails because it sticks to the gel layer better than it does on natural nails.

To those of you who are unfamiliar with a UV nail hardening system and how different this is to your regular soak-off gels, here's how I described Knockout Nails:

The difference between soak-off gels (like Shellac, Gelish, ULTA's Red Carpet, etc) and Knockout Nails is that Soak-off-gels can be removed by soaking the nails in acetone. Knockout Nails gel can only be removed by filing it off, so you can apply nail color on top of your Knockout Nails and change nail polish as often as you want, because acetone will not damage Knockout Nails. This is great for me because I can change my manicure as often as I want, WHEN I want, and not have my polish peel off on me because my nails are soft and brittle. Knockout Nails will help keep my nails grow long, hard, and beautiful, and yet allow me to change nail polish colors as often as I want. And yes, I can use my regular nail polish and I don't need gel or UV-treated nail polish to wear over Knockout Nails. In short, it is the best of both worlds!

Wearing OPI polish in Did it On 'Em (Nicki Minaj collection) over Knockout Nails

The great thing is that Knockout Nails made a coupon code especially for The Shades Of U Followers! Enter KONSOU during checkout at KnockoutNails.com, and you get $10 off the purchase price of the kit, plus free shipping!

Enjoy the discount and the beautiful strong nails!

Note: Media sample was provided by a representative of the company for consideration. All opinions are completely mine.

OPI Nicki Minaj Swatches

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 23:04:00 +0000

Hi everyone! I've had these swatches for quite a while now, but I finally have the opportunity to show them! OPI Nicki Minaj collection has big bursts of color in store for us, paying homage to Nicki Minaj's flamboyant personality. All the swatches below are three coats, with the exception of the glitter topcoats which are 1-2 coats.

Did it On 'Em

Did it On 'Em is a bright yellow green, similar to Illamasqua's Radium which is one of my most favorite chartreuse nail lacquers. This is also similar to OPI Who the Shrek R U, but this is a little bit more yellow.

Save Me over Did it On 'Em

Save Me is a clear base with holographic bar glitter (yes, those hairy things) and smaller silver glitter. Hairy scary; not too much of a bar glitter fan, but it looks fun.

Fly

Fly is bright teal creme. Not much more to say about it; more of a brighter teal. Applied easily and didn't give me much of a hard time.

Metallic 4 Life over Fly

Metallic 4 Life has bigger silver hex glitter and smaller silver glitter in a black base. The base is quite dark as it totally obscured Fly in the swatches above.

Pink Friday

Pink Friday is a light cotton candy pink creme. I think this is a little bit too cool for my skintone.

Super Bass Shatter over Pink Friday

Super Bass Shatter is a shimmery wine/deep magenta shatter. I am not a fan of this over Pink Friday, but I will swatch it with other colors to see which ones complement this shade.

All in all, the shades are okay but not particularly exciting. They are also not terribly unique. I am liking Fly and Did it On 'Em, but even the glitter polishes did not really pique my interest. Formula is okay though, very easy to apply and although it did streak on the first coat, the second one evened things out considerably. Typical OPI formula with good staying power. I am not just that wowed by the choice of shades in this collection.

NEW MAC Lightfully with Marine-Bright Formula

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 22:08:00 +0000

M·A·C LIGHTFULLY NEW WITH MARINA-BRIGHT FORMULA
Lightful Marine Bright: A natural upgrade to the original Lightful, our unique Marine-Bright Formula features three seaweeds harvested from the world’s oceans. Nourish, hydrate, de-oxidize and fortify the skin against key aggressors – excess melanin and free-radicals – while progressively shifting the complexion toward a more evenly pigmented radiance. Adding to this trio’s potency: our own NEW Super-Duo Charged Water, Lightful Cleanser, Essence, Moisture Crème and Softening Lotion, your future is bright.

Available February 23, 2012 in the permanent collection.

Softening Lotion:

Moisture Cream:

Serum:

Cleanser:

M·A·C LIGHTFUL CLEANSER
SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE $25.00 U.S./$30.00 CDN
M·A·C LIGHTFUL SOFTENING LOTION
SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE $30.00 U.S./$36.00 CDN
M·A·C LIGHTFUL ESSENCE
SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE $40.00 U.S./$48.00 CDN
M·A·C LIGHTFUL MOISTURE CREME
SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE $40.00 U.S./$48.00 CDN

Available North America February 23, 2012 and International February 2012 at select M·A·C locations, 1.800.588.0070 and www.maccosmetics.com

MAC Mineralize Perfectly Finished

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 21:04:00 +0000

M·A·C MINERALIZE PERFECTLY FINISHED
Look what’s happening in Mineralize! Our outstandingly popular M·A·C Mineralize Foundation/Loose gets a new look and with the 188 Duo Fibre Brush sets out to create its famous naturally radiant finish. For those who have a spot, a blemish, a dark circle to hide, there’s NEW Mineralize Concealer. Goes on smoothly, discreetly, with a touch of moisture. Shade ranges go from light to dark. Formulas meet the needs of All Ages, All Races, All Sexes. You’ll find these two are a great match.

Available February 16, 2012 in the permanent collection.

Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.

MINERALIZE CONCEALER
NW15, NW20, NW25, NW30, NW35,
NW40, NW45, NW50, NC15, NC20,
NC30, NC35, NC42, NC45, NC50
SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE
$19.00 U.S./$22.50 CDN

MINERALIZE FOUNDATION/LOOSE
Extra Light, Light, Light Plus,
Medium, Medium Plus, Medium Dark,
Medium Deep, Dark, Dark Deep
SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE
$30.00 U.S./$36.50 CDN

BRUSH
188 Small Duo Fibre Face Brush
SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE
$34.00 U.S./$41.00 CDN

Available
North America February 16, 2012
International February 2012 at all M·A·C locations, 1.800.588.0070 and www.maccosmetics.com

Shop MAC, Cook MAC Promo Images and Product Description

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 18:35:00 +0000

SHOP M·A·C, COOK M·A·C
Try and Buy a delicious, delovely, delectable, divine, degorgeous, de-with-it, degroovy assortment of Eye Shadow x 4 in wearable brights perfect for Spring. Treat yourself to Lipstick in heavenly hues, mouthwateringly Kissable Lipcolour and Cremeblend Blush. This Spring, shop ‘til you drop with a tongue-in-cheek collection that elevates the everyday into the extraordinary. Whether it’s detergent or diamonds, produce or Prada, everyone loves to shop, shop, shop!

Ladle on an extra helping of foodie fun with an appetizing assortment temptingly tasty Tendertones, nearly black Fluidlines, Studio Careblend/Pressed powder, Opulash Mascara, two Brushes and nosh-worthy Nail Lacquers in fun, bright shades sure to satiate even the most discriminating of glamorous gourmands. COOK M·A·C has Spring 2012’s no-carb, no-calorie recipe for kooky, kitschy, kitchen kouture in savoury shades for Eyes, Lips and Nails.

SHOP M·A·C, COOK M·A·C Available February 9, 2012 through April 5, 2012.

Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.

Shop MAC:

LIPSTICK
Innocence, Beware! Light yellow pink(cremesheen)
Naughty Sauté Bright pepto pink (cremesheen)
Watch Me Simmer Bright pink-orange (amplified)
Quick Sizzle Bright pink (matte)
Dish It Up Berry pink (lustre)
Runaway Red Rich red-blue (satin)
Suggested Retail Price
$14.50 U.S./$17.50 CDN

KISSABLE LIPCOLOUR
Flaunting It Grey mauve
So Vain Muted dirty coral
Scan-delicious Blue fuchsia
Woo Me Light pinky nude
Enchantée Light blue pink
Suggested Retail Price
$19.00 U.S./$22.50 CDN

CREMEBLEND BLUSH
Optimistic Orange Bright coral
Florida Bright coral
Restores Dazzle! Rich plum
Suggested Retail Price
$20.00 U.S./$24.00 CDN

EYE SHADOW X4
SHOP & DROP
Hypnotizing Frosted greyed mauve (frost)
Sugar Snack Light pink (matte)
Power Boosted Violet (veluxe pearl)
Shop & Drop Deep blue (satin)
Suggested Retail Price
$38.00 U.S./$45.00 CDN

CALL ME BUBBLES
Call Me Bubbles Light tan (satin)
Fresh Daily Orange (frost)
Brash Frosty reddish copper (veluxe pearl)
Full of Flavour Coral (matte)
Suggested Retail Price
$38.00 U.S./$45.00 CDN

COLOUR ADDED
Laundry Daze Light yellow (satin)
Colour Added Bright yellow (veluxe pearl)
Self-Serve Deep grey (satin)
Pre-Packaged Muted turquoise (veluxe pearl)
Suggested Retail Price
$38.00 U.S./$45.00 CDN

Cook MAC:

STUDIO
CAREBLEND/PRESSED
Medium Soft creamy beige
Dark Deep caramel
Suggested Retail Price $23.00 U.S./$27.50 CDN

FLUIDLINE
Midnight Snack Soft black
Wholesome Blackened brown
Added Goodness Blackened mauve
Suggested Retail Price $15.00 U.S./$18.00 CDN

OPULASH MASCARA
Bad, Bad, Black Black
Suggested Retail Price $15.00 U.S./$18.00 CDN

TENDERTONE
LIP BALM SPF 12
Hush, Hush Sheer gold with yellow gold pearl
Purring Sheer tangerine with pearl
Hot ‘n’ Saucy Soft cherry red
Tread Gently Soft lime green with yellow pearl
Suggested Retail Price $15.00 U.S./$18.00 CDN

NAIL LACQUER
Al Fredo Bright acid green (creme)
Salad Dressed Midtone dirty aqua (creme)
Kid Orange Coral (creme)
Suggested Retail Price
$16.00 U.S./$19.00 CDN

BRUSHES
211 Pointed Liner
Suggested Retail Price
$18.00 U.S./$21.50 CDN

129SH Powder/Blush
Suggested Retail Price
$34.00 U.S./$41.00 CDN

Available North America
February 9, 2012 International March 2012 at all M·A·C locations, 1.800.588.0070 and www.maccosmetics.com

MAC Vera Promo Images and Product Information

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 17:04:00 +0000

M·A·C VERA
Brilliant butterflies, flashy florals and gorgeously geometric graphics…A colourful collaboration between M·A·C and the artist known worldwide as Vera, who merged fine arts with linens, murals, textiles and silk scarves in her punchy, painted patterns. Now in shades plucked straight from her most lavish prints, M·A·C Vera embraces the luxe, lighter-than-air spirit that delivers the kind of startling, look-at-me statement that defines what it means to be an instant classic. Limited Edition.

M·A·C Vera Available February 9, 2012 through March 1, 2012.

Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.

CRUSHED METALLIC PIGMENT X4
ALOHA
Lantern Light Metallic gold/bronze
Campfire Rich copper (frost)
Shifting Sands Metallic Champagne (frost)
Aloha Dirt cocoa brown (frost)

STRAWBERRY PATCH
Star Crystal Pink Champagne (frost)
Rose Light Metallic Yellow Pink (frost)
Strawberry Patch Light blue pink (frost)
Moon Rose Bright Dark Pink (frost)

BUTTERFLY PARTY
Butterfly Party Bright Lilac (frost)
Desert Cloud Deep blue purple (frost)
Rain Drop Metallic teal (frost)
Moss Garden Metallic silver green (frost)
Suggested Retail Price $34.00 U.S./$40.00 CDN

PEARLGLIDE INTENSE EYE LINER
Lord It Up Bronze with pearl
Industrial Periwinkle grey
Designer Purple Iridescent violet
Undercurrent Teal with pearl
Petrol Blue Deep navy with pearl
Black Swan Black with pearl
Black Line Black with gold pearl
Suggested Retail Price $15.00 U.S./$18.00 CDN

NAIL LACQUER
Midsummer’s Dream Pale pink lilac (creme)
Play Day Pale milky coral (creme)
Suggested Retail Price
$16.00 U.S./$19.00 CDN

PEARLMATTE FACE POWDER
Sunday Afternoon Clean bright pink/bright clean fuchsia/soft pale pink with white pearl
Flower Fantasy Pale coral with slight gold pearl/slightly blue pale pink/soft pale salmon
Suggested Retail Price $28.00 U.S./$33.50 CDN

PLUSHGLASS
Fashion Fanatic Creamy pale pink
Pretty Plush Extra soft pink with white pearl
Confetti Bright orange coral with soft pearl
On A Holiday Bright pink with blue pearl
Butterfly Dream Mid-tone violet with blue pearl
Suggested Retail Price $19.50 U.S./$22.50 CDN

Available North America February 16, 2012 International March 2012 at all M·A·C locations, 1.800.588.0070 and www.maccosmetics.com

Shu Uemura Lash Builder and Ultimate Natural Mascara Review

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:44:00 +0000

Shu Uemura Lash Builder Eyelash Nourishing Serum

Shu Uemura Ultimate Natural Mascara

I have pretty much given up on my lashes. I have stick-straight, sparse, and short lashes, and fancy mascaras do add some volume and length, but not a lot. That's also the reason why I tend to stick to false lashes when I do dramatic eye makeup or for special events, because they really build my lashes instantly, full-on volume and length in a few minutes.

Here's a new tandem that I've tried, however: Shu Uemura Lash Builder Nourishing Serum and Shu Uemura Ultimate Natural Mascara. The Lash Builder is a base that you apply on your lashes prior to applying the mascara, and it preps the lashes for a lengthier but natural look. I applied the Lash Builder, waited for half a minute, then applied the Ultimate Natural Mascara:

no mascara

After using Shu Uemura Lash Builder and Ultimate Natural Mascara

Note: I will be reviewing these two products as a tandem and not as separate products.

Whoa, I loved how it instantly lengthens my short lashes! Not much volumizing properties in my experience, but I always use a separate mascara for volume anyway. This product really makes my lashes look a lot longer without looking clumpy. It may look clumpy in my photo for some people, but that is just because I have sparse (very few) lashes to begin with, so there's no full feathery lash look for me!

I really like this tandem of the Lash Builder and the Ultimate Natural Mascara. They give amazing length to my short lashes, and yet don't look clumpy even if I apply one coat too many. This duo added at least 2-3 mm length to my short lashes!

Pros: Adds a lot of length to lashes, very natural look, not clumpy

Cons: Does not add a lot of volume, may need a separate volume mascara for a lush lash look

All in all, I am impressed with this duo. I mean, if this can lengthen my super short lashes, I am all for it! I could not believe how long the products made my lashes look.

You can purchase these products on the Shu Uemura website: http://www.shuuemura-usa.com/

The Shades Of U Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Note: Media sample was provided by a representative of the brand for consideration. All opinions are completely mine.

The Shades Of U's New Year Giveaway for Followers

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 17:42:00 +0000

Prize Package A

Prize Package B

Yay! As promised on Twitter, I'm so excited to share with you The Shades Of U's first giveaway for the year! This is an exciting event and this is open to all The Shades Of U's followers and subscribers 18 years old and above worldwide. Look at what I have in store for you!

Two lucky The Shades Of U followers will win one Prize Package each. Each winner will be chosen randomly and cannot choose which prize package they will win, but each one is equally beautiful and laden with yummy goodies, take a peek!

PRIZE PACKAGE A:

Sue Devitt lipgloss in Alanya, Lumiere Natural Radiance complexion enhancer

Lumiere Natural Radiance, MAC Suave Intentions eye shadow

MAC Magenta Madness pigment, Aromaleigh Starry-Eyed mineral eyeshadow

Zoya nail lacquer in Cho

Cellairis case for iPhone 4/4s in Zebra Rouge

This is Prize Package A and will go to a lucky The Shades Of U follower!

Again, Prize Package A includes:

MAC Suave Intentions eye shadow
MAC Magenta Madness pigment (not eye-safe but is cheek and lip-safe! You can even use this to mix with clear nail polish!)
Sue Devitt lipgloss in Alanya
Zoya nail lacquer in Cho
Aromaleigh mineral eye shadow in Starry Eyed
Lumiere Natural Radiance complexion enhancer sample
Cellairis case for iPhone 4/4s in Zebra Rouge

PRIZE PACKAGE B:

Lumiere Starstruck Silk Radiance sample, Aromaleigh mineral shadow in Love's Easy Tears

MAC lipglass in English Accents, Zoya nail lacquer in Farah

MAC mineralize eye shadow in Quartz Fusion

Cellairis case for iPhone 4/4s in Zebra Cinnamon, MAC pigment in Neo-Orange

Again, Prize Package B includes:
MAC mineralize eye shadow in Quartz Fusion
MAC pigment in Neo-Orange (not eye-safe but is cheek and lip-safe! You can even use this to mix with clear nail polish!)
MAC lipglass in English Accents
Zoya nail lacquer in Farah
Lumiere Starstruck Silk Radiance sample
Aromaleigh mineral shadow in Love's Easy Tears
Cellairis case for iPhone 4/4s in Zebra Cinnamon

Please read the Contest Mechanics very carefully! Entries that do not follow the contest mechanics will be disqualified immediately. Please also take note of the widget that is at the bottom of this page for instructions!

CONTEST MECHANICS:

1. This contest is open to all The Shades Of U Subscribers/Followers 18 years old and older worldwide. International subscribers (outside of the U.S.) are welcome to join. Subscribe to or follow The Shades Of U via one of the following: the RSS Feed, e-mail subscription, Twitter, Blogger/Google Friend Connect or Facebook. If you are currently a subscriber, you are automatically eligible to join and you do not need to re-subscribe.

2. Follow the instructions in the Rafflecopter widget at the bottom of this entry.

3. Using the Comment Box below, you should answer the question, "How are you subscribed to The Shades Of U? -

a. RSS Feed

b. Twitter (include Twitter ID)

c. E-mail subscription (include email address)

d. Blogger/Google (include Blogger name)

e. Facebook (include Facebook name)"

This earns you one entry. One comment per person, please.

HOW TO SUBMIT EXTRA ENTRIES:

4. a. Like The Shades Of U on Facebook (+1)
b. Follow @Shades_Of_U on Twitter (+1)
c. Follow The Shades of U on Google Friend Connect (+1)
d. Tweet about this giveaway and don't forget to include my username @Shades_OF_U (with a link to the blog post) (+2), OR simply re-tweet my tweet on this giveaway. (You can only tweet/re-tweet once a day.)

5. The sweepstakes shall run starting today, January 18, 2012 and ends on Monday, January 25, 2012 at 12:01 a.m. EST.

6. The Shades Of U shall randomly pick two winners who shall win one Prize Package each, announce the names of the winners on this blog, and shall contact the winner via the e-mail address provided.

7. The winner shall respond with his/her mailing address within seventy-two (72) hours of the delivery of the notification e-mail; otherwise, the entry shall be disqualified and another winner shall be chosen. Thus, this is also the reason why entrants should subscribe to this blog to be promptly notified of the winner's name just in case the notification e-mail does not go through or goes to the spam inbox.

8. The Shades Of U will ship the prize packages to anywhere in the world via First Class mail. If the winner is a U.S. Resident, the prize shall be sent with delivery confirmation. If the winner resides outside of the U.S., the prize shall be sent to the international winner using First Class international mail with no tracking number. However, the postal receipt shall be kept as evidence of shipment. The Shades Of U shall not be responsible for loss or delays in the delivery of the package after the prize has been mailed, nor shall it be responsible for customs duties or fees.

Goodluck to everyone! Don't forget to subscribe or follow, fill up the Comment Box below, and use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

MAC Naturally: Lipstick and Lipglass Swatches and Review

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 20:34:00 +0000

Lipglasses: The Wee Coquette, Naked Space, Hot Spell, Fresh Air

Lipsticks: A Perfect Day, Sweet Sunrise, Beach Sand, Pillow Talk

A Perfect Day, Sweet Sunrise, Beach Sand

Beach Sand, Pillow Talk

I fell in love with the colors of these lipsticks and lipglasses, just because they are so wearable and neutral, and can be everyday staples of a lot of people. Somehow, though, the only shade that I know would work for my skintone was Pillow Talk as I have pigmented lips, so nudes usually do not work on me. So I got Beach Sand and it kind of washes me out, so I need a darker lipglass and the right lipliner to use it.

A Perfect Day is a light neutral pink in the amplified formula, and I know it would't work on my skintone as it is very light and, as I said, I have pigmented lips. Beach Sand is a light sand in the cremesheen formula. Sweet Sunrise is a light neutral peach that is even lighter than A Perfect Day so I guess I woulnd't be able to wear it too. Pillow Talk is a nice mid-tone rose nude in the cremesheen formula that will work best on medium to dark skintones.

As for the lipglasses, I love all of them, most especially Naked Space, a creamy midtone nude peach that is very pretty. I use this over neutral or darker lippies and it always perks up my complexion. Fresh Air is a light pink that I have way too many of. The Wee Coquette is a naked neutral pink that is great for that really nude-except-shine lip look. Hot Spell is a bronze with multi-coloured pearl that is great for darker skintones.

All in all, there is probably one for everyone in this collection, although if you have pigmented lips like me, your choices are probably limited. Like most everyone, I love the muted, neutral color palette of this collection.

If you liked this entry, you can check out:

MAC Naturally Mineral Blush and Eye Shadow Swatches and Review

MAC Naturally: Blonde and Redhead Mineralize Skinfinishes Swatches and Review

How to Use Q-Tips Precision Tips and Vaseline Petroleum Jelly for Beauty Purposes

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 19:14:00 +0000

Original petroleum jelly

Mini Petroleum Jelly Lip Therapy pots

So I don't think Q-Tips and Vaseline petroleum jelly need any further introduction. We all know what they are, they are staples in our everyday lives as hygiene tools, and we all know what they do and how well they do it. That is why I won't bother to do a review on these products. However, I will talk about the new Q-Tips Precision Tips and how it makes makeup application easier. I will also talk about Vaseline petroleum jelly's beauty uses.

Q-Tips Precision Tips

Tapered tips at both ends

Q-tips Precision Tips is the new variant of Q-Tips that has tapered tips at both ends for a precise application of any beauty-related product, or just to clean or smudge product the way we want to.

Here's a tutorial on how I use Q-Tips Precision Tips in my makeup application:

I would sometimes apply a dark brown line on my lower lashline that I can smudge, so that the line doesn't look too harsh. In this instance, I used MAC's Dirty Greasepaint Stick applied with Essence of Beauty liner brush.

Like so.

Using the pointed tip of the Precision Tips, I smudge the line to create a softer, smokier effect.

Using the Sonia Kashuk blending brush, I apply a dark brown shadow on the crease and outer lid.

Like so

I apply a light wash of color on the inner lid.

I apply a matte brown on the crease, and add some more of the dark brown shadow. I blend with the 224 brush.

I clean stray product on my lower lashline using the Precision Tip.

I apply black liquid liner on the upper lashline. I apply a matte highlight, and apply a bronze color on the lower lashline using a pencil brush.

I clean the lower lashline of any excess product using the Precision Tip.

I apply false lashes and mascara. Done!

Other uses I can think of for these new Precision Tips are:

- soak Precision Tips in nail polish remover to clean cuticles and sides of the nails of any excess nail polish after applying your manicure;
- use Precision Tips to clean product on your eyebrows after filling them in;
- soak Precision Tips in makeup remover to remove black circles under your eyes after taking off mascara.

As for the Vaseline Petroleum Jelly, I am glad they have it in tiny jars called Lip Therapy. My husband already stole one of my Lip Therapy pots so he could have one in his car anytime. My little boy also loves this for his lips, and he needs it everyday especially in the winter. I also use it for anything and everything skin-related- I use it to massage on my cuticles, I apply it to dry and cracked heels, dry hands and elbows, and it has virtually hundreds of uses. You can also apply Vaseline around your cuticles while you're painting your nails so that excess nail polish doesn't get into your skin or cuticles.

There you have it, my tips on how to use Q-Tips Precision Tips and Vaseline. I truly use these products everyday, and I am glad to have shared with you how I use them.

Note: Press sample was provided by a representative of the company for consideration. All opinions are completely mine.

Debra Messing Wears tarte Cosmetics to the Golden Globes

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:14:00 +0000

Get the Look: Debra Messing

Event: Golden Globes

Makeup Artist: celebrity makeup artist Jeannia Robinette for tarte
Date: 1/15/12
Overall Inspiration: "Debra said she wanted knock-em-dead eyes. She wanted a super smoky dramatic look, so we made it all about glamorous eyes, and accentuated them with a shiny, natural nude gloss on the lips."

Makeup-complexion

To begin, Jeannia used tarte's Amazonian clay 12-hour full coverage foundation with Broad Spectrum SPF 15, applied with tarte's new airbrush finish bamboo foundation brush.
She added a touch of sheen with tarte's new maracuja blush & glow brightening luminizer and cheek tint in candlelight on the tops of her cheekbones and around her temples.
She then used Amazonian clay bronzer in park ave princess to contour on the hollows of the cheek.

Makeup-cheeks

To make her cheekbones pop, she used tarte's new Amazonian clay 12-hour blush in buff, a warm nude, with a touch of shimmer, on the apples of her cheeks and along her cheekbones.

Makeup-eyes

She lined the inner rims of the eyes with tarte's emphasEYES™ high-definition inner rim eyeliner black pencil.
Then she smudged smolderEYES Amazonian clay waterproof liner in golden black along the lash line, followed by smolderEYES Amazonian clay waterproof liner in olive, which added the perfect hint of green to complement her earrings.
She followed by tapping on Amazonian clay cream shadow in shimmering moss to set the look and strike the perfect balance of black and green.
For loads of volume and dramatic separation on her upper lashes, Jeannia used two coats of tarte's light, camera, lashes! clinically-proven mascara, which made her eyes pop.
She finished by swiping tarte's new the bright side double-ended eye brightener under her brow bones and in the very inner-corners of her eyes to add an instant brightening effect.

Makeup-lips

To complete Debra's sexy, Hollywood glam look, Jeannia filled her lips with tarte's LipSurgence™ lip luster in buff, then added major shine with tarte's new maracuja divine shine lip gloss in glisten.

Photos: (photo credit: Getty Images)

Frederic Fekkai for Reese Witherspoon, Diana Agron, Kate Winslet and Kate Beckinsale at the Golden Globes

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:21:00 +0000

Frederic Fekkai celebrity stylists, Adir Abergel and Renato Campora tended to the tresses of Hollywood’s major manes tonight!

FREDERIC FEKKAI STYLIST ADIR ABERGEL CREATED A BOHEIMIAN, NATURAL LOOK FOR WATER FOR ELEPHANTS ACTRESS REESE WITHERSPOON

INSPIRATION: A textured style that looks effortless and modern

HOW TO GET THE LOOK: Adir started by using Fekkai COIFF™ Océanique Tousled Wave Spray throughout dry hair. He then used a small amount of Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Cream, applying it to the ends of hair to create a moisturizing seal. Using a medium round brush he blow-dried the hair with volume. He then wrapped the hair around a one inch curling iron using slight tension to create loose waves. This process was repeated around the head. Lastly, Adir took the hair at the crown of the head, pulling it back for a Bardo-style bump. He finished the look with Fekkai COIFF™ Sheer Hold Hairspray for hold and Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Sheer Shine Mist for shine.

THE PRODUCTS ALL BY FEKKAI: COIFF™ Océanique Tousled Wave Spray ($25), Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Cream ($25), Fekkai COIFF™ Sheer Hold Hairspray ($25), Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Sheer Shine Mist ($25).

FREDERIC FEKKAI STYLIST ADIR ABERGEL CREATED A CLASSIC UPDO WITH A MODERN TWIST FOR GLEE ACTRESS DIANA AGRON

INSPIRATION: A simple and chic up-do that compliments the beautiful and intricate texture of the dress.

HOW TO GET THE LOOK: Adir began by applying Fekkai COIFF™ Bouffant Lifting & Texturizing Spray Gel on the roots and rough dried the hair with his hands. Next he braided the hair, applying a small amount of Brilliant Glossing Cream to give it texture and shine. Once the hair was dry, Adir took the braids apart, raked the hair with his hands, and created a deep sweeping part angled towards the back of the head. Adir gathered the hair in the back, creating sections of little twists and ultimately pinning them together. He secured the look with Fekkai COIFF™ Sheer Hold Hairspray

THE PRODUCTS ALL BY FEKKAI Fekkai COIFF™ Bouffant Lifting & Texturizing Spray Gel ($25), Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Cream ($25),

Fekkai COIFF™ Sheer Hold Hairspray ($25).

FREDERIC FEKKAI STYLIST RENATO CAMPORA CREATED A CLASSIC RETRO LOOK FOR BEST PREFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE NOMINEE, KATE WINSLET

INSPIRATION: A look that creates a beautiful silhouette from both the front and back.

HOW TO GET THE LOOK: Renato began by creating a side part and applying Fekkai Full Blown Volume Styling Whip to wet hair. He then blow dried the hair straight. Using a one- inch curling iron, Renato created small tight waves through the hair. Lastly, he secured Kate’s hair back with bobby pins and wrapped her hair into a low bun using an elastic to secure. He finished the look by spraying her hair with Fekkai COIFF Sheer Hold Hairspray.

THE PRODUCTS ALL BY FEKKAI: Full Blown Volume Styling Whip ($25) and Fekkai COIFF Sheer Hold Hairspray ($25).

FREDERIC FEKKAI STYLIST RENATO CAMPORA CREATED A MODERN TAKE ON A FRENCH TWIST FOR ATTENDEES KATE BECKINSDALE

INSPIRATION: A creative take on a classic red carpet look that focuses on texture and body.

HOW TO GET THE LOOK: To achieve a base of texture and manageability, Renato applied a blend of the Fekkai COIFF™ Bouffant Lifting & Texturizing Spray Gel and the Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Cream throughout the hair, followed with a rough blow dry. Next, Renato used a 1 ½ inch curling iron to create loose curls, letting the curls set for 10 minutes so they fell, creating little bit of a wave. Next he separated the hair into three sections, two low pig-tails and a ponytail in the middle. All three pieces were secured with clear hair ties. Renato finished by weaving the three pieces into a high bun. He secured the look with Fekkai COIFF™ Sheer Hold Hairspray.

THE PRODUCTS ALL BY FEKKAI: COIFF™ Océanique Tousled Wave Spray ($25), Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Cream ($25), Fekkai COIFF™ Sheer Hold Hairspray ($25).

Photo Credit: WireImage.com

Evan Rachel Wood Wears NARS at the 69th Annual Golden Globes

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 03:07:00 +0000

Photo Credit: Photos providedby NARS Cosmetics

Makeup by Toby Fleischman for NARS Cosmetics

Inspiration:
"Sometimes the stars just align (pun intended) and tonight with nominee Evan Rachel Wood, her look came together so organically. Of course with a Gucci Premiere gown such as hers, it was all about the dress so we wanted to keep the make up clean and soft.

When I saw the new NARS Spring collection, it was as if the products were created specifically for this look! We had so much fun getting ready for the big day. We rocked out to some of our favorite tunes (Lykke Li), ate some yummy snacks (cookies of course) and most importantly laughed!"

The Look:
Paramaribo Duo Eyeshadow (new for Spring 2012) was the exact gilded gold and bronze we wanted to create a soft metallic eye that would pick up the accent of the feathers. Then we used Almay One Coat Nourishing Mascara on the lashes to finish the eye (ok maybe more than one coat!).

To keep the rest of the face feminine, the new NARS Gaiety Blush (new for Spring 2012) was amazing for a sheer flush of pink on the cheek along with a swipe of good-old standby NARS Angelika Blush to add a bit of shimmer.

NARS Sex Machine Velvet Matte Lip Pencil topped off with Como Larger Than Life Lip Gloss gave Evan a soft mauve pink lip to complete the look.

All products are NARS and available at www.narscosmetics.com, unless otherwise noted.

Piper Parebo Wears NARS at the 69th Annual Golden Globes

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 02:12:00 +0000

Photo Credit: Photos provided by NARS Cosmetics

Makeup by Troy Surratt for NARS Cosmetics

Inspiration:
"The look is very ethereal. It’s dewy and glowing with a gorgeous sparkly pink lip, which was the perfect look to complement her bold dress. For me, it was a classic approach with a subtle balance of attention paid to all points of the face."

The Look:
We started with Cle de Peau La Crème to prep her skin as it’s something she uses on the show and day to day. Her foundation was NARS Sheer Glow Foundation with Cle de Peau Concealer to cover any imperfections.

On her eyes, we dusted the shimmery icy pink side of Douce France Trio Eyeshadow (new for Spring 2012). We created a thin, barely-there line of black along her entire lashline using the Nuits Blanches Eyeliner Stylo. To get the precision, we placed the Push Eyeliner Brush to the ink of the stylo, and applied a thin line from the inner corner to the outer corner, growing slightly thicker at the outer corner, but not extending past the corner. We used Larger Than Life Lengthening Mascara on her lashes for definition. Brows were filled in with Jodhpur Eyebrow Pencil to make them appear more dense. To set the pencil, I applied Shiseido Translucent Brow Shaper.

On the apples of her cheeks, using a Yachiyo Kabuki Artisan Brush, we created warmth with Gilda Blush. It was the perfect blush shade at the intersection of peach meets pink without any shimmer.

We created a pinky-beige lip by first lightly defining with Rosebud Lipliner Pencil, filling in with with Frivolous Velvet Gloss Lip Pencil, and applying Baby Doll Lip Lacquer just to the center of the lips. This creates a light-reflecting affect for a fuller pout on the red carpet.

All products are NARS and available at www.narscosmetics.com, unless otherwise noted.

MAC Naturally Mineral Blush and Eye Shadow Swatches and Review

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 17:37:00 +0000

Here are some MAC Naturally mineral blushes and eye shadows. I am really liking this collection because these are the shades everyone can really wear every single day- neutral, classic shades that you can wear for years to come, any time of the year.
Here are my thoughts on the products:

Mineral Eye Shadows:

Summer Haze
Cloudy Afternoon, In the Sun

In the Sun

Summer Haze, Cloudy Afternoon

Summer Haze

Cloudy Afternoon

Swatches:

Daylight, Twilight Falls, Summer Haze, Cloudy Afternoon
In the Sun

Daylight, Twilight Falls, Summer Haze, Cloudy Afternoon

Twilight Falls, Summer Haze, Cloudy Afternoon

In the Sun

I was also glad to know that the mineral eyeshadow formulation from MAC has improved through the years- gone are the chalky pigment-deprived shimmer bombs from yesteryears. These new ones, just like the Holiday 2009 Glitter and Ice mineral shadows are pigmented, apply well on the lid, and just have a better texture than previous releases. The swatches were applied dry, so you can see they have good texture and color pay-off even when when dry. It turns to an almost metallic hue when applied on the skin wet (or foiled).

Daylight is described as a peach with dirty blue lavender veining. This is light enough to be used as an all over wash of color on the lid. In the Sun is one of my favorites, a gold with violet veining that turns into a coppery-bronze metallic shade when applied. Cloudy Afternoon is my favorite lid shade, a cream with gold, grey and pink veining. It lights up the eyes and makes it look awake. Summer Haze is a pale gold with deeper gold veining. This would also work as a lid color. Twilight Falls is the only crease color that I can think of in this collection apart from In The Sun. This is a cool brown with bronze veining. Very pretty.

All in all, I am really liking these shadows. They are easy to apply both wet and dry. If you want a more pigmented, metallic version of these shades, it is best that you apply them foiled or with damp brush. I use MAC Fix+ or Charged Water to foil these.

The Shades Of U Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars

Mineralize Blushes:

Early Morning, Subtle Breeze

Subtle Breeze

Subtle Breeze

Early Morning

Swatches:

Subtle Breeze, Fresh Honey, Early Morning

These shades are just gorgeous. They really apply well on the cheeks and have an even fine texture that is not splotchy or patchy. They are also not as shimmery as previous mineralize blushes, but there's still some subtle sheen going on. Subtle Breeze is a blue pink that is not too cool on my skintone, it is just right. Fresh Honey is a warm apricot that might be too warm for me, but it it is a pretty peachy-apricot. Early Morning is described as a peachy pink but it has red tones to my eyes as well. This shade is so gorgeous.

I really like these mineralize blushes, except that they don't stay too long on the skin- maybe 5-6 hours tops. It would be a good idea to bring this with you if you are planning to be out for the entire day. A little inconvenient, but the colors are worth it, in my opinion.

The Shades Of U Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Note: Media sample was provided by a representative of the company for consideration. All opinions are completely mine.

MAC Naturally: Blonde and Redhead Mineralize Skinfinishes Swatches and Review

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 23:20:00 +0000

MAC Redhead, Blonde MSFs

Redhead

Blonde

I've had the Redhead and Blonde mineralize skinfinishes since 2009 when MAC came up with the Brunette, Blonde, Redhead collection. This time, in the Naturally collection, MAC did away with the Brunette MSF which was more of a contour/bronzer shade. Here were the three MSFs from three years ago:

And these were my swatches:

I don't think the MSFs changed much. Redhead is still the gold to salmon pink degrade, while Blonde is the soft pink to rose degrade. I love these two. They are finely milled and the shimmer is quite pretty. Redhead is on the warmer, peachier side, while Blonde is in the cooler pink side.

Here are my recent swatches under sunlight:

Blonde, Redhead

I am such a fan of the MSFs since 2006. I've been collecting them and they are probably my most coveted MAC products aside from shadows and some blushes. The swatches I made are a little on the heavier side, but you can definitely tone it down by using your MAC 187 or 188 brush (or any duo fibre brush) to apply these on your cheekbones, temples, or even your decolletage for a lit-from-within complexion. These mineralized skinfinishes are versatile as you can even use these on your eyes.

Which one is your favorite? I will be posting the rest of the Naturally collection swatches soon!

SRP: $28 U.S./$33 CDN
Available:
North America January 2012
International February 2012

Note: Media samples were provided by a representative of the company for consideration. All opinions are completely mine.

Iris Apfel for MAC Swatches and Review

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 18:36:00 +0000

Silver Gull Eye Shadow, Toco Toucan nail lacquer, Too Chic Beauty Powder

Silver Gull

Toco Toucan

Too Chic Beauty Powder

Here are some swatches and product photos from the Iris Apfel for MAC collection. A former interior designer and a fashion icon, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City premiered an exhibition about the fashionable style of Iris Apfel entitled Rara Avis (Rare Bird): The Irreverent Iris Apfel. That is why most of the colors of these shades depict birds of all sizes and colors. Iris Apfel is a rare bird indeed. The color palette of this collection amazes me! I usually don't like bold colors on my lips, but I changed my mind when I saw the beautiful lip colors in this collection. When I swatched the colors, they applied really well on the skin and glided like a dream. Here are some swatches from the collection:

Lipsticks: Flamingo, Morange, Scarlet Ibis, Party Parrot

Pink Pigeon lipstick; Lip Pencils: Embrace Me, Redd, Entertain Me; Taupe Brow Pencil; Ebony Eye Pencil

Lip Pencils: Embrace Me, Redd, Entertain Me; Taupe Brow Pencil; Ebony Eye Pencil

The lipsticks are gorgeous and amazing. Pink Pigeon is described as a matte bright cleanest pink. Scarlet Ibis looks amazing in person: a bright matte orange-red. Party Parrot is a matte bright red-pink, Flamingo is alight milky bright coral (lustre), and Morange is a "loudmouth" orange in the amplified formula. My favorites are definitely Scarlet Ibis and Party Parrot, but the latter is already sold out at my neighborhood MAC store.

This collection also launched coordinating lip pencils that you can use with the bright lippies: Entertain Me which is an orange pencil, Redd which obviously describes itself, and Embrace Me which is a vivid fuchsia.

As for the brow pencil, I have Taupe and it works great even for dark-haired people like me. It has the right amount of wax and color so that it doesn't look patchy on the brows. Ebony is a nice staple black, but I already have way too many black pencils that I just completely forgot about this.

Eye Shadows:

Silver Gull, Early Bird, Howzat, Robin's Egg
Diamond Dove

As for the eye shadows, my favorites are Howzat, a deep grey with silver sparkle in the satin formula and Diamond Dove, a deep grey brown in the matte formula. Look how pigmented Diamond Dove is in the swatches. Silver Gull is a blue grey with silver sparkle that is not too pigmented. I would have to see if the color would pop more using a colored base underneath. Robin's Egg is a mid-tone matte teal, and Early Bird is a matte bright coral. What I like about these shadows is that they are mostly matte. No outrageous sparkle that sometimes get in the way of how the color shines through.

Too Chic Beauty Powder:

Too Chic is a nice soft peachy cream with fine shimmer. Well, that's how it's described. I don't see much peach, although it is definitely on the yellow-toned side. So pretty because the shimmer is very fine and not glittery or metallic at all.

Toco Toucan Nail Lacquer:

3 coats

Toco Toucan is a nice fuchsia creme to welcome the spring. Can be a great summer shade as well. I like that it is not too bright of a pink, it has some rose tones to it so I am really liking it. Perfect for a pedi color as well.

All in all, if you like color, the Iris Apfel collection is for you. My favorites are the lipsticks because the colors are very bright but gorgeous. They are not the ugly garish colors that I usually associate with bright, colorful lippies. I am also liking the matte and satin shadows because they are pigmented and apply well on the skin, especially Diamond Dove. Lastly, Too Chic is also a favorite because it is a soft yellow-cream highlighter with very fine shimmer. I love it; it brightens up the complexion.

I can't believe that I really like this collection. I am leaning towards neutrals now that is why I am liking the MAC Naturally collection (swatches and review coming up!). However, the shades in the Iris Apfel for MAC may be bright, but they are beautifully bright, and many of the shades have good color pay-off.

The Shades Of U Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Note: Media sample was provided by a representative of the company for consideration. All opinions are completely mine.

Bobbi Brown Neons & Nudes: Ink Liner Swatches and Review

noreply@blogger.com (The Shades Of U) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 23:08:00 +0000

Ink Liner in Really Black

I am always on the lookout for the best liquid liners out there. I am such a liquid liner gal that I almost always pick this up over a gel or pencil liner. I like liquid liners because they are very easy to control for me. I especially like felt-tipped liners because it's just like drawing a line with a Sharpie (or felt-tip pen). I like the precision of the liquid liner because I always like crisp lines on my lashline, and it's very easy to create the cat-eye wing using this.

I was able to try this new, limited edition Ink Liner from Bobbi Brown's Neons & Nudes collection. This is similar to other felt-tip liquid liners I've tried, but the one thing I noticed is that the tip is fully saturated with product, so that you won't have a hard time creating a line and you don't have to draw the line over and over on the same area to achieve the pigmentation that you want. Usually, these kinds of felt tip, Sharpie-type liners are not as pigmented as I'd like them to be. However, Bobbi Brown's new Ink Liner is aptly named Really Black - as you can see in the swatches, it is really, really black, something that I really like in my liners. I don't usually like soft blacks, but I like rich, saturated, black-as-night carbon black liners. The Bobbi Brown Ink Liner fits my requirements to a T.

Staying power is quite good as well. I used it on my upper lashline for work and eight hours later, it stayed immaculate and didn't fade. I am pretty impressed.

I think it's the best of both worlds- I get the precision and control that I want with the pen-type tube and felt-tip applicator (just like drawing a line with your pen), but the tip secretes the right amount of black, rich ink that I would usually get with brush-tip liquid liners, but without the mess.

I really can't say anything more other than I really like this liner. It's pigmented, it's saturated, it's black, it's easy to control, and it has decent staying power. The only downside is probably the price which is $24, but I'd rather pay a premium for a good, workhorse liquid liner which I will be using everyday.

The Shades Of U Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Note: Media sample was provided by a representative of the company for consideration. All opinions are completely mine.