makeupbytess

{Review} Jack Black Moisture Therapy Lip Balm

2014-12-20T13:31:00.001-05:00

Sephora $8.50 CAD

I have been on a hunt for a lip balm that is moisturizing, non-sticky, & lightweight. I think I found it ...at @Sephora and for under $10!!

@getjackblack is a men's grooming line but this "Moisture Therapy Lip Balm" is a fave amongst the ladies as well!

This NON-STICKY formula contains natural mint & shea butter. Not only does it keep your lips moisturized for hours, but it protects your lips from the sun & wind (SPF 25) too!

This would be a great stocking stuffer for ladies & gents!

{REVIEW} Revlon Super Lustrous Matte Lipstick in "Sultry Samba"

2014-09-01T14:40:00.000-04:00

The Rio Rush Gucci Westman Collection is a limited edition collection which was inspired by the "summary nature of the Brazilian culture of Rio de Janeiro".

Gucci Westman was inspired by the famous ‘Carnaval’ in Brazil and "aimed to evoke a celebration of life, dancing and colours" in her collection. This collection includes beautiful shades of nail lacquers, lipsticks, and eye shadows. But today I will focus on one of the products in the collection.

This collection launched in June 2014 and will be in stores while quantities last.

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For those who want to step into the world of wearing bold, vibrant lipstick but are still a bit nervous, I would recommend trying the Revlon Super Lustrous Matte Lipsticks from the Rio Rush Gucci Westman Limited Collection.

I tried out the lipstick in the shade "Sultry Samba" which is a beautiful bright pink shade with a slight purple undertone. This is a gorgeous shade for a sunny day or even to brighten up a natural make-up look. (Shhh ... I'm going to tell you a little secret: I wore this on a day where I felt super tired and it just brightened up my face and made it look like I had all the sleep and energy in the world!)

{Tess' First Impression}

The formula is not as pigmented as I expected. To get the vibrancy and full coverage of the lipstick, multiple layers will need to be applied on your lips. For those who are vibrant lipstick veterans, I would say this lipstick may not be for you. You can find a more pigmented formula with a similar shade elsewhere ("Fuschia" by Joe Fresh).

On the upside, this is why I think this lipstick is a great way to introduce someone to bold, bright lipsticks. This lipstick is buildable which allows for more control on how light or dark you want the coverage to be which is perfect for someone still trying to get used to wearing bold lips.

This formula is a gorgeous matte finish which I find isn't drying to the lips. However, a tip for wearing any matte lipstick ... put on lip balm beforehand and let it absorb into your lips.

The shade "Sultry Samba" is a beautiful shade that looks great on every skin colour. Bonus: with its bluish/purplish undertone, it makes your teeth look whiter (who doesn't love whiter teeth? ;P)!

This lipstick coverage is after three applications

NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream

2014-06-16T23:24:00.002-04:00

(Top to bottom: Addis Ababa, Amsterdam, Antwerp)

NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream is very lightweight on the lips with a creamy velvety touch. Its non-sticky texture makes you feel like you are wearing nothing on your lips. One layer is just enough to brighten up your face and it is definitely buildable for an even more intense look. Its staying power is amazing due to its fast-dry matte finish. Try blotting your lips on a tissue or try kissing the cheek (or lips ;D) of a loved one...It doesn't really transfer! You'll be very impressed!

This impressive lip product can be found at a Rexall or Target near you. It retails for approximately $8.99 each.

If you get it now it's "Buy One Get One 50% off" at Rexall until this Thursday, June 19, 2014! Hurry and get yours now! (I went to two Rexall locations and there selection was running low.)

LOTD: NYX Matte Lipstick

2014-04-15T22:22:00.001-04:00

I like to wear my fave drink on my lips! Now all I need is the sun shining, warm weather and a patio! :-p

Here is my Lipstick Of The Day (#LOTD):

NYX Matte lipstick in "Strawberry Daiquiri"

Quick Review:

Matte finish - ensure your lips are moisturized prior to applying lipstick
Very pigmented
Long-lasting
Beautiful shade and flattering for most skin types

{HAUL}: MAC Cosmetics

2014-03-28T17:47:00.005-04:00

{Products}:

Pro Longwear Concealer - "NW30"
Concealer that provides a medium to full coverage; claims to last 15 hours

I bought this to cover the darkness under my eyes. My foundation is usually "NC42" but I got "NW30" to correct and brighten the darkness underneath my eyes. This was highly recommended to me by one of my make-up artist friends. I got a little sample and tested it for a few days and loved the coverage and finish. This concealer did not look drying underneath the eyes and if definitely did not enhance my usually-subtle wrinkles which other concealers have done.

Lipstick - "Russian Red" (matte) & "Ruby Woo" (retro-matte)
Intense & vibrante blue-red shade

I have wanted both shades for a very long time and couldn't decide on which shade to get, so I bought both! They both look very similar in the tube, but when I applied, one is more matte than the other and one is more bright in shade.

Pro Longwear Paint Pot - "Soft Ocre"
Long-lasting, pigmented cream shadow

I've been using "Painterly" Paint Pot for years. But noticed that it's sometimes too light for my clients. I have always wanted to try "Soft Ocre" as it's a bit darker and more yellow. I use this as an eye primer to act as a good base before applying eye shadow.

Can't wait to use these products! Have you tried any of these?

Wear 'Radiant Orchid', the Pantone Colour of the Year!

2014-03-21T23:32:00.000-04:00

The Pantone Colour of the Year is 'Radiant Orchid'.

Pantone LLC says,

"Radiant Orchid blooms with confidence and magical warmth that intrigues the eye and sparks the imagination. It is an expressive, creative and embracing purple — one that draws you in with its beguiling charm. A captivating harmony of fuchsia, purple, and pink undertones, Radiant Orchid emanates joy, love and health"

Photo credit: www.Pantone.com

How can you incorporate Radiant Orchid in your make-up?

Here is how I wear it — keeping it subtle, natural, and soft with Elizabeth Adren's Beautiful Color Eye Shadow in, "Golden Orchid".

$24 CAD (NET WT .09 OZ 2.5 g)

Application:
I applied "Golden Orchid" on my entire lid. To add more definition to my eye, I took a darker purple shade and applied it in my crease and blended it out for a softer look.

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"Golden Orchid" is a beautiful shade of purple and very close to the actual "Radiant Orchid" shade. What I like about the eye shadow is that it has gold flecks in it which makes it more wearable for an everyday look. The eye shadow doesn't appear too bright on the skin, so this is perfect for those who want a colourful, yet subtle & soft look.

If you are new to Elizabeth Arden's Beautiful Color Eye Shadows, they are:

long-lasting
crease-free
improves appearance of signs of aging (i.e., smooths skin)

www.elizabetharden.com

How do you incorporate "Radiant Orchid" in your look?

Spring/Summer 2014 Beauty Trends

2014-03-05T18:30:00.000-05:00

How many of you are counting down the days of when Spring will finally arrive? (I am, I am!)
It's been one cccooollldd winter this year and I know many of us can't wait to store our winter jackets and boots and say "hello" to the beauty and fashion trends of Spring!

Curious to know what the Spring/Summer '14 beauty trends are?

Justin German (Patene Pro-V Consulting Stylist) and Amélie Ducharme (COVERGIRL Make-up Pro) share with us the beauty trends that have been seen on the Spring '14 runways.

To see the looks, check out the LOOKING GLASS: www.youtube.com/lookingglass. Justin and Amélie show us how to acheive these beauty trends so you can easily re-create the looks on your own! The LOOKING GLASS is also featured in the March 2014 edition of FASHION Magazine!

One of my favourite S/S '14 beauty trend seen on the runways is: BRIGHT CLUB -- a simple ponytail paired with a strong, bright orange lip.

Here's how to get the look:

Being a part of #BeautyUnited, I was challenged to re-create my favourite S/S '14 beauty look and was given a $50 gift card to buy the exact make-up products used. This was a great challenge because you can get a sense of how the same products look on various skin tones & hair colours!

Here is my re-creation of the BRIGHT CLUB:

Here are the products used to create this look:

{Hair}

Pantene Pro-V Smooth Shampoo & Conditioner (note: I used a different product. In the video it is the "Smooth & Sleek Shampoo and Conditioner")
Pantene Pro-V with Argan Oil Shine Serum

{Make-up}

COVERGIRL TruBlend Liquid Makeup in "Caramel Beige (m5)"
COVERGIRL TruBlend Fixstick Concealer in "Medium Light (m1-4)"
COVERGIRL TruMagic Sun Kisser
COVERGIRL Lip Perfection Liner in "Passion"
COVERGIRL Lip Perfection Lipstick in "Sweet"

Note: Since I'm more tanned than the model, the bronzer (COVERGIRL TruMagic Sun Kisser) didn't show up on my skin as dark as I wanted. After I applied the bronzer, I took the lipstick and applied a bit of it on my cheeks to brighten up my face (similar to the model's). Lipstick as blush?! Now there's another #makeupbytessTIP for you all! :)

Which S/S '14 beauty trend is your favourite? www.youtube.com/lookingglass

Comment below and let me know! :)

Bye-Bye Pores!

2014-03-03T18:05:00.000-05:00

Introducing magic for your pores...

L'OREAL Paris just came out with ... YOUTH CODE Pore Vanisher which helps you achieve perfect looking skin!

Non-comedogenic
Non-acnegenic
Dermatologist tested for gentleness
Suitable for sensitive skin
Shine-free, oil-free
Fast absorbing
Can be used under make-up

1.4 FL.OZ. (40 ml) - SRP $29.99 CDN

How to apply:
Smooth over your entire face or areas where your pores are visible (commonly on the nose and cheek area). Apply in the morning and at night for better results. Can be worn alone, underneath your foundation or the last step of your skin care routine.

{L'OREAL claims this product}:

instantly transforms your skin for a refined, smooth, look; feels freshly hydrated
absorbs excess oil for a shine-free, matte finish
overtime will actually reduce the size of pores due to its active ingredients

{Review}:

minimizes the size of pores (very noticable difference on my nose)
reduces shine
matte finish
feels silky smooth, grease-free
skin looks flawless under foundation
foundation looks better hours after application than without the Youth Code Pore Vanisher
the product has a bit of colour in it, but when you apply it, it is colourless
this product has a scent to it, but it is very mild

WARNING!!! Here is the big reveal ... close up of my face! :P jk

My before & after, a few minutes after applying the product on my nose and cheek area.

Would I recommend this product?
Yes! It acts like a great primer for under your foundation and it treats the skin to minimize your pores overtime.

Comment below and let me know if you have tried it and how it worked for you.

www.lorealparis.ca

Fave Tools for a Brow Makeover

2014-02-26T17:23:00.001-05:00

• Make-up Forever Aqua Brow (waterproof) - long-lasting & natural-looking on the brow; only need a tiny bit

• L'Oreal MAGICLUMI Concealer - apply a bit under the brow to clean-up the shape and to help lift and brighten up the eyes

• bdellium 733 (eyebrow spooly) - brush the brows in-place before and after you apply your product; this will also help dispurse the product throughout your brows.

• bdellium 766 (angled liner brush) - use this to lightly apply the product to your brows. Start off in the center of your brows and fill in the areas that are sparse. With whatever is left on the brush, lightly fill in the front of your brows for softer, natural-looking brows.

TIP: The thicker and fuller your brows, the more youthful you look!

*quick post published off of cellphone

COVERGIRL Outlast Stay Brilliant Nail Gloss

2014-02-10T22:48:00.001-05:00

COVERGIRL Outlast Stay Brilliant Nail Gloss is goodness in a bottle! It is a base coat, high gloss colour, and chip-resistant top coat all in one. Yup, a 3-in-1 bottle of goodness that is easy to apply and is a time-saver.

My friend and I were able to try out the shades at the #BeautyUnited #PanteneBeautifulHair Event held this past weekend and we were very impressed at the quality of the formulation.

First Impression Review:

formula is pigmented and opaque -- we were able to get away with one coat of polish! (We didn't have time for a second coat that day and wanted to ensure our nails were dry before we left the event).
the finish is high gloss
applies evenly
the polish dried faster than we expected
great range of shades (it was so hard to choose which shades to try first!)

Here are the two shades we decided to try:


Crushed Berries (one coat)

Always Autumn (one coat)

Have you tried COVERGIRL Outlast Stay Brilliant Nail Gloss? What are your thoughts?

LIMITED EDITION - Avon's Signature Collection

2014-02-06T23:17:00.003-05:00

"Heritage meets modern style" with Avon's ICONIC MONOGRAM COLLECTION!

The Mailyn Collection consists of a wallet, cosmetic bag, tote bag, and scarf.
This line is available in rich earth tones -- rich chocolate brown colour with gold hardware. The gold hardware details Avon's 4A monogram, a symbol of Avon's heritage.

Avon's iconic 4A logo was the company logo from 1954 - 1972. It appeared on all of their products in the '60s and '70s.

4A Logo = "Anytime, Anywhere, Always, Ask"

Can you see the 4 A's?

I just received the wallet and scarf and I must say, I am very impressed with the quality and the chic look! I love the neutral look because it can go with any outfit and purse. The golden hardware is my favourite touch as it adds richness to the products and makes it look classy. I am very excited to use them both!

Wallet $19.99

Six card slots and interior zippered section

19 cm W x 10 cm H

Scarf $14.99

Polyester

180 cm L x 56 cm W

See the rest of the collection at: www.avon.ca

Thanks Avon!

{How to} Rockin' Romance Look

2014-02-06T00:01:00.000-05:00

Want to achieve this Grammy-inspired look at home?

Amélie Ducharme (COVERGIRL Make-up Pro) and Justin German (Pantene Pro-V Consulting Stylist) share with us details on how they created this Rockin' Romance look!

Photo Credit: Arthur Mola

Make-up: Amélie Ducharme

Hair: Justin German

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{Make-up Look}

Amélie Ducharme, COVERGIRL Make-up Pro:

Face:

To keep focus on the eyes, skin must look flawless. Create your base with COVERGIRL Outlast Fabulous 3-in-1 Foundation with a foundation brush.
Even out any dark circles by applying COVERGIRL + Olay Eye Rehab CC Cream with a concealer brush. Apply in a triangular shape under the eye - from corner to corner and down toward the nose.
Next, lightly apply COVERGIRL Clean Sensitive Skin Pressed Powder under the eye to set concealer. Also apply on forehead nose and chin for a natural yet matte skin finish.

Eyes:

With your finger, apply COVERGIRL Bombshell Shine Shadow in "Ohh La Lilac" all over the lid up to the crease and along the bottom lashline with a flat shadow brush.
Using a shadow brush, apply COVERGIRL Flamed Out Shadow Pot in "Molten Black" to the outside corner of the lid and then from the inside corner, blending toward the center of the eye, connecting both sides in the crease. To create dimension, apply the plum shadow from the COVERGIRL Eyehancer 4-Kit Shadow in "Prom Queen" to the middle of the lid, just below the crease. Also, sweep this plum colour under the eye.
Rim the bottom of the eye, tighter to the lashline, with the Shadow Pot in "Molten Black", blending slightly wider toward the outer corner of the eye.
Next, line the entire waterline with COVERGIRL LiquidLineBlast Eye Liner in "Black Fire". To intensify the look, use this pencil to trace over the shadow on the outer corners of the eye and blend out and up using the sponge tip on the other end of the pencil. Using a shadow brush, connect the shadow from the top and bottom lids just beyond the outside corner, lifting up and out toward the temple, elongating the eye. The further out, the more dramatic the look!
Using COVERGIRL Bombshell Intensity Liner in "Pitch Black Passion", trace along the upper lashline starting from the inner corner and creating a thicker line as you move to the outer corner extending just beyond the lash in an upward movement.
Coat the lashes with COVERGIRL Bombshell Volume Mascara in "Very Black". Start with multiple coats of Step 1 for extreme volume, then apply Step 2 for a pitch black glossy finish.
Finish the eye look by applying the silver shade from the "Prom Queen" palette under the brow.

Brows:

For this smoldering look, you want to create a thick, strong brow. Fill in brows with COVERGIRL Brow & EyeMakers Pencil one shade darker than your natural colour.

Contour & Blush:

To contour the face, use COVERGIRL Clean Glow Bronzer in "Spices". Starting with the darkest shade of the palette, apply just under the cheek bone at the temple. As you move toward the apple of the cheek blend the middle and lightest shade.

Lips:

Finally, prep lips by applying moisturizer topped with a thin layer of your foundation to cover any redness around the mouth. Then, fill in your pout with COVERGIRL LipPerfection in "Yummy" - a great pastel pink!

Final touch:

For a more matte finish, apply a light dusting of Clean Pressed Powder.

{Hair Look}

Justin German, Pantene Pro-V Consulting Stylist:

First, prepare by washing hair with the new Pantene Pro-V Damage Detox Weekly Deep Cleanse Purifying Shampoo.
Blow-dry with a round brush and pin in clips, like you would rollers - this will give you a great foundation for this updo. Set with Pantene Pro-V Stylers Anti-Humidity Maximum Hold Hairspray.
After a few minutes, remove clips and shake out the curls. Spray in Pantene Advanced+Keratin Repair KERAGLOSS Oil Mist to relax the look and build texture.
Now, part the hair in two sections. Start by collecting hair from temple to temple and pile it in a knot on top of your head.
With the remaining hair, gather and put into a ponytail just below the crown. While the sides are tight to the head, they are not slick. We want an undone look! Backbrush the ponytail, while misting with hairspray.
Next, twist the ponytail downward and pin into the head all the way down. Finish by tucking in the ends with a few bobby pins at the nape of the neck.
Undo the top section of hair and backbrush with a few spritzes of the Pantene Pro-V Stylers Anti-Humidity Maximum Hold Hairspray. Then lift hair at the front, creating tons of volume, roll and pin into the top of the hair roll that was created with the bottom section of the hair - connecting the top and bottom into one.
For the final touch, using your fingertips, pull out a few pieces of hair from the front, lifting and spraying for even more volume and texture.
Finish with a few sprays of KERAGLOSS for extra shine.

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Grammy Inspiration:

Click here for post

Let me know if you give this look a try! :)

#BeautyUnited's Fave Hair & Make-up Look - 2014 Grammy Awards

2014-02-05T23:59:00.002-05:00

Photo Sources: www.fashnberry.com & www.becomegorgeous.com

During the 2014 Grammy Awards, the P&G #BeautyUnited bloggers were invited to the Thompson Hotel in Toronto for the #MusicGlam Twitter Party hosted by Arianne, TheGlitterGeek.

We mingled, munched on delicious hors d'oeuvres, had a few drinks, got hair and make-up touch-ups, and tweeted all night long about beauty & fashion of our fave celebs.

During the commercial breaks the #BeautyUnited bloggers voted on their top hair & make-up looks. The final vote came down to Paris Hilton's Hair and Rita Ora's Make-up.

The challenge of the night was for Pantene Pro-V Consulting Stylist, Justin German and COVERGIRL Make-up Pro, Amélie Ducharme to re-create our top looks, and of course, add their magic touch!

Here is the final look called, Rockin' Romance:

Photo Credit: Arthur Mola

Make-up: Amélie Ducharme

Hair: Justin German

Don't you think they did an excellent job re-creating our top make-up & hair look?

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Amélie Ducharme and Justin German share with us detailed instructions on how they created this look.
Click here.

Photos of the evening:

Thompson Hotel (Photo cred: Arthur Mola)

Pantene Pro-V Hair Products (Photo cred: Arthur Mola)

Justin German re-creating Paris Hilton's hair inspired look (Photo cred: Arthur Mola)

COVERGIRL Make-up (Photo cred: Arthur Mola)

Amélie Ducharme re-creating Rita Ora's make-up inspired look (Photo cred: Arthur Mola)

(Photo cred: Gerry - @PBunnieP)

With Gerry - @PBunnieP (Photo cred: Arthur Mola)

Getting my make-up touch-up (Photo cred: Arthur Mola)

With the host of the #MusicGlam Twitter Party, Arianne (@TheGlitterGeek)

{REVIEW} Carmex Moisture Plus

2014-02-02T20:39:00.000-05:00

Some of you may recall me raving about Carmex Moisture Plus SPF 15 a while back. This hydrating lip balm has saved my lips many times, especially during this crazy winter! Carmex Moisture Plus has made it into my purse... my work bag...and my office drawer -- yes, I have three! This product is now my go-to lip balm (Sorry, to break up with you, EOS. My lips do thank you for the last couple of years!)

Carmex has launched their first Carmex Moisture Plus Lip Balm Limited Edition Collection in January 2014. This new edition not only gives you moisturized, soft, kissable lips but also makes you look trendy with its sleek designs.

Carmex Moisture Plus Lip Balm Limited Edition Collection features the hottest trends for 2014 with it's stylish stick designs to represent an array of fashion personalities.

What's your Style Personality?

{Chic} a modern yet elegant and sophisticated black and white houndstooth check print
{Adventurous} a wild, daring sexy leopard print for bold and sassy fashionistas
{Fab} a funky, retro orbit design in groovy shades of mauve, a key hue of the season

These designs are only the beginning! Stay tuned for more limited edition designs from Carmex in the seasons to come. Upcoming designs will reflect the seasons' latest fashion trends.

| REVIEW |

Product: Carmex Moisture Plus Lip Balm Limited Edition Collection (MSRP $4.99 CAD)

Description:

Ultra hydrating
SPF 15
Slanted Tip
Vitamin E + Aloe
Moisturizing Protection
Clear Satin Gloss Finish
Lightweight and sleek packaging (Size: 2 g)

Review:

No scent
Very hydrating & moisturizing for a long period of time
Protects my lips from the sun and cold weather
Soothes and heals dry, chapped lips
Absorbs well into your lips; doesn't just sit on the surface
Keeps my lips very soft & smooth allowing ease of even lipstick application
It can also be applied on top of your lipstick. It adds moisture back into your lips if your lipstick becomes drying throughout the day.

Recommendation:

Highly Recommended. It adds long-lasting moisture to your lips and protects it from the sun & weather.

My Daily Application Routine:

As part of my morning routine, I apply this product before I apply my foundation to let it absorb into my lips in preparation for my lipstick.
I apply it again mid-day as well as before I leave the office to brace the sub-zero temperature.
If I'm working out that evening, I apply a bit on before my gym class. I hate the feeling of dry lips when exercising!
After I brush my teeth before bed, I put some on to let it nourish and hydrate my lips throughout the night.

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Thanks to the Carmex team, I'm giving away the Carmex Moisture Plus Lip Balm Limited Edition Collection to one lucky Canadian reader! Yes, all THREE designs! Enter to win ... your lips will thank you! :P

| GIVEAWAY - NOW CLOSED!!|

*Contest only open to Canadian residents.
** Contest ends Monday, February 10th at 12:00 am EST.
*** Winner will be contacted via e-mail for their mailing address.
**** Contest sponsored by Carmex www.mycarmex.com

Please enter the contest through Rafflecopter below:

What's your Style Personality ... Chic, Adventurous, or Fab?

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck! :)

UPDATE - February 10, 2014

THE WINNER IS ...

Congratulations R.C.! I will be contacting you shortly.

Thank you for everyone who participated in this Giveaway!

It was great to heard what your Personality Style is! :)

JOIN US! #MusicGlam Twitter Party

2014-01-26T15:37:00.000-05:00

Tonight I will be attending Proctor & Gamble's Grammy Awards viewing party in Toronto!
Along with the beautiful, Arianne (@TheGlitterGeek) from TheGlitterGeek, and the rest of the #BeautyUnited bloggers, we will be tweeting away on beauty and fashion trends from the Red Carpet.

COVERGIRL Make-up Artist Pro, Amelie Ducharme and Pantene Pro-V Consulting Stylist, Justin German will be showing us how to re-create some of the celeb hair & make-up looks and we'll get to share them with you!

Follow me on Twitter (@makeupbytess) and hashtag #MusicGlam to attend and join us for some fun and prizes!

*Giveaway contest for Canadian Residents only.

See you there!

How to Get Kate Beckinsale's Golden Globe's Side Up-do!

2014-01-17T17:41:00.000-05:00

When I saw Kate Beckinsale on the 2014 Golden Globes' red carpet, I fell in love with her overall look — especially her low, side up-do!

Sascha Breuer, celebrity hairstylist, shares how she created this punk-inspired, yet soft & feminine hairstyle:

Hair Prep/Style:

Start by spraying Moroccanoil Root Boost directly on the roots of damp hair. The spray will help add body and hold and it's a great way to set the style in. It'll also make hair more pliable and easier to work with.
Begin blow drying the hair using a skeleton brush, and then use your fingers to create texture and additional volume. Once the hair is fully dry, seperate into a horseshoe shaped section (the part between both temples & crown area) and clip the top section away.
Pull the botom section into a low, side ponytail at the nape of the neck and secure with an elastic. Then coil & wrap the tail into a messy bun. Secure hair with bobby pins.
Take the hair from the top section and backcomb the roots using Moroccanoil Boar Bristle Teasing Brush to maximze the volume at the crown and create a slightly disheveled texture.
Secure the top section into the existing loose bun with bobby pins.

Finishing Touches:

Mist the hair with Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray to add shine and long-lasting hold. Spray a little product onto finger tips and work it into the single strands to help define the pieces. Secure the final look with a few more pins and you're good to go!

www.moroccanoil.com

*Thank you Langton Communications for the press release

Get Olivia Wilde's Look from the 2014 Golden Globes

2014-01-16T22:32:00.005-05:00

How many of you agree that Olivia Wilde looked absolutely stunning at the 2014 Golden Globes? I sure did! She looked even more beautiful with her mama glow!

Her purple eye make-up paired up very nicely with her sequenced-emerald green Gucci gown and as much as she had a smokey-eye, her look still gave off a natural, effortless look.

Melanie Inglessis, Celebrity Make-up Artist did an excellent job to achieve Olivia's look. Here is what she used:

(Olivia Wilde's photo sourced from www.glamour.com, image by: unknown)

Face
1. Revlon PhotoReady Perfecting Primer, $16.95
2. Revlon PhotoReady Makeup in Nude, $18.95
3. Revlon PhotoReady Skinlights Face Illuminator in Bare Light (mixed with PhotoReady Makeup) and Peach Light (brushed on cheekbones), $16.95
4. Revlon Cream Blush in Pinched, $12.95
5. Revlon Powder Blush in Bronzilla, $12.95

Eyes
6. Revlon PhotoReady Primer + Shadow in Muse, $12.95
6. Revlon PhotoReady Primer + Shadow in Muse (dark purple shade used wet as liner), $12.95
7. Revlon PhotoReady Kajal Eye Liner + Brightener in Carbon Cleopatra, $9.95
8. Revlon Lash Potion by Grow Luscious Mascara in Blackest Black, $9.95
9. Revlon Brow Fantasy in Dark Blonde, $9.95

Lips
10. Revlon ColorStay Ultimate Suede in Private Viewing, $12.95
11. Revlon Super Lustrous Lipgloss in Super Natural, $9.50

Nails
12. Revlon Nail Enamel in Sheer Petal, $5.95

This look can go with any eye colour, so give it a try and let me know how it goes!

For more info on the products, visit: www.revlon.com

Manicure Monday - Metallic Goodness

2014-01-13T23:24:00.003-05:00

{Get This Look}

1. Apply two coats of COVERGIRL Outlast Stay Brilliant nail polish in Bronze Beauty (235).

2. Apply one coat of L'OREAL Paris Top Coat Confettis in Confetti (916) on half of your nail --- closest to your cuticle.

Simple, trendy nail look for 2014!

Oh, by the way ...the background photo is the cover of one of my fave make-up books, "MAKEUP The Ultimate Guide" by Rae Morris. It's an excellent book -- highly recommended -- and a great coffee table book!

{GIVEAWAY - CLOSED!} People Choice Awards: Come Join Me!

2014-01-08T01:01:00.002-05:00

WIN a #BeautyUnited #RedCarpetGlam Beauty Box filled with some amazing beauty products to make you look & feel red-carpet ready:

Repair Heat & Protect Shine Spray
Olay Fresh Effects Satin Finish Lotion
Olay Regenerist Microsculpting Cream
COVERGIRL Clean Glow Bronzer in Spices
Gillette Venus Embrace Sensitive
COVERGIRL Lip Perfection Liner in Passion
COVERGIRL Lip Perfection in Hot
Crest 3D White Whitestrips Advance Seal 1-Hour Express (1 sachet, not the full box)
Vidal Sassoon's Flexible Hold Hairspray
Vidal Sassoon Repair Heat & Protect Shine Spray
Aldo Accessories Gift Card (to adorn your OOTD with a fresh party bauble)

TO ENTER:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

To LIVE STREAM the People's Choice Awards Red Carpet:

http://popwatch.ew.com/2014/01/08/peoples-choice-awards-red-carpet-live-stream/

Goodluck and can't wait to chat with you!

Don't forget to hashtag: #BeautyUnited, #RedCarpetGlam, #TessPCA!

* Contest Open to Canadian residents only!
** Winner will be selected and contacted after the event to provide your mailing address.

Eyes of the Day (EOTD)

2013-12-15T13:57:00.002-05:00

Today's eye make-up look is featuring Annabelle Cosmetics Quad Eyeshadow in "Chai Chai Chai".

{Review}

Annabelle Cosmetics Quad Eyeshadow

Very pigmented: Extremely impressed with the pigmentation and color pay-off of this product.With just a light touch, you get a lot of product on your brush.
Silky touch: Very soft and silky and when you apply it on your lids there is little to no "fall-off".

Check out Annabelle's Quad Eyeshadow on www.annabelle.ca to see other shades they offer.

Currently on special for $8.95 (reg. $10.95).

I paired up Annabelle Quad Eyeshadow with Marcelle Xtension Plus Mascara.

I highly recommend this palette. This eye shadow quad has been my go-to, everyday palette to achieve a natural smokey-eye look for months now. It can be taken from day to night by adding more smokiness with the darkest brown colour giving a sexy, sultry look.This product exceeds my expectations for a drugstore palette and is excellent quality for the price you pay. Thumbs up all the way!

L'Oreal Magic Nude Liquid Powder

2013-10-14T09:00:00.000-04:00

Price: $16.99

Size: 27 ml (0.9 oz)

Shades: 12 shades (light to medium-dark skin tones)

To apply:

Before applying, shake the bottle to mix the formula.
L'Oreal recommends using your fingers to apply rather than a foundation brush. Ensure you have clean fingers so you do not transfer dirt and oil onto your skin.
Once you apply one layer, I suggest going back to apply a second on areas that need more coverage (i.e., acne scars) by dabbing it on with your finger. I continue to dab and build on top until I get the desired coverage and it blends well into my skin.
This product dries to powder so there is no need to apply a powder over to set the foundation.

Claims:

glides on
transform into a powdery finish (liquid-powder formula)
no make-up feel

My Observations:

I'm not a huge fan of applying foundation with my fingers. But applying this foundation, wasn't too bad. Like any other foundation, you just have to work fast before the foundation dries to avoid streak marks.
The consistency is very liquidy and more product comes out then what I intend. If it was a pump bottle, I think it would help control the amount of product coming out.
The coverage is a light to medium matte coverage. I think it's a great foundation for an everyday wear to even out the skin tone and cover any light scars or imperfection. However, I do not recommend this foundation if you are looking to cover a lot of acne.
This product does dry to powder and it gives such a beautiful finish to the skin. With a combination skin type (oily t-zone), applying a powder on top is not necessary.
My skin feels very smooth and the foundation feels extremely lightweight as if I'm not wearing anything at all.
This contains SPF 18. Great for everyday wear to protect yours skin from the UV rays.

Shade: Sun Beige

Note:

no face primer applied underneath

no powder applied over to set

Note:

Foundation faded a tad bit (you can see the acne scar on my chin a bit more)

Nose and area above my eyebrow got a bit oily

Skin still looked quite even

Conclusion:
I have received so many compliments on the appearance of my skin whenever I wear this foundation. With the lightweight feel and natural, smooth finish I would recommend this foundation for those who want a light to medium coverage everyday foundation. My skin gets moderately oily on my nose and center of my forehead, but I found I didn't need to powder over this foundation. However, if your skin gets extremely oily, I would recommend lightly powder in those areas or where a face primer underneath.

www.loreal.ca

Have you tried this foundation? What are your thoughts?

COVERGIRL Clean Glow Bronzer

2013-10-12T23:27:00.002-04:00

COVERGIRL Clean Glow Bronzer in #120 Spices

www.covergirl.ca

Claims:

Lightweight
Blendable matte color
Clean
Natural

My observations:

This product is definitely lightweight. Not only is the packaging light, but also the application. I swirl the blush brush around the compact to get all three colours and I get just the right amount of product to create a soft, natural look. This product is buildable without it looking chalky or harsh.
When looking at the compact, you can tell that the bronzer will be matte, which is perfect! When applied, it gives gorgeous finish without it looking chalky or dry.
Since there are three colours in one compact, this compact is very versatile. You can choose, one, two or all three colours depending on what look you want to achieve.
Many people have commented saying my skin looks really soft and seamless. You can't tell where the bronzer starts and stops as it blends very well into my skin.

This was definitely love at first sight and has been my go-to bronzer/blush for the last month.
I'm really happy that the product lives up to what it claims!

Price: $10.99
Size: 12 g (0.42 oz)

Make-up at the Gym?

2013-09-12T22:45:00.000-04:00

Exercising at least a few times a week is a must for healthy-looking skin! However, it is even more beneficial for your skin if you aren’t wearing any make-up whilst you exercise. Your pores enlarge as you get hot and sweaty and make-up can cause clogged pores resulting in potential break-outs and blackheads.

If you are always on the go and there is no time to wash your face, I suggest bringing make-up wipes in your gym bag. These will definitely come in handy both before and after your workout!

If you absolutely have to wear make-up at the gym (you never know who you’ll bump into, right?!), I would suggest wearing only eyeliner and mascara to help open and define your eyes. Your face will look naturally radiant and glowy after a great workout so you can leave your full-face of make-up for a special event.

I have to admit, if my exercise class is after work, I don’t remove my make-up. I leave on whatever I have left from the early morning. But to ensure I don’t walk out of the class looking like a raccoon after an intense, sweaty session, I wear waterproof eyeliner and mascara. My go-to products are Make-up Forever Aqua Black eyeliner and L’oreal Voluminous Waterproof mascara. This has definitely saved me from looking like a total mess when I got rained on during my outdoor bootcamp class! Also, tried, tested and true, the eyeliner stayed intact during my hot yoga class (and you all know how much sweat drips down your face in that class)!

One more thing! Don't forget to wear SPF moisturizer (especially when you are exercising outdoors) and hydrate your lips with lip balm!

Happy exercising and keep it up for a healthy, beautiful-looking life! xoxox

{Products used}:

L'oreal Voluminous Waterproof Mascara in Carbon Black or MARCELLE Waterproofing Mascara Topcoat
Make-up Forever Aqua Black liner
EOS lip balm
Equate Baby Wipes

What Has Been Your Go-To Nail Polish Shade This Summer?

2013-08-27T18:43:00.004-04:00

Summer is almost over and I realized I gravitated towards the same shade of nail polish the last few months! My go-to nail polish colour this summer is in the assortment shades of coral.  

Shades in the orangey-pink range such as coral, apricot, and peach compliment beautifully with all skin colours … especially with tanned skin!   To jazz up my nails, I like to add a bit of nail art. My favourite this season has been nail art that helps give the illusion of elongated nails and fingers without actually having super long nails. Top on my list are the chevron nail and triangle. When pointed down towards the tip of your nails, it draws your eyes to the edge of your nails, which makes it look long and slender. I added a hint of pale pink as a lovely accent.

Tip: Use scotch tape to create these patterns. It works wonders!

{Products used}:

Maybelline New York Express Finish in “Peachy Petal (#60)”
Essie in “Ballet Slippers”

This post was featured on:

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{Beauty Panel} How to Choose a Nude Lip Colour

2013-07-28T00:04:00.001-04:00

Wearing a nude lip is a great compliment to a smoky eye. But choosing the right nude lip shade can be a little tricky. A nude shade for you may not be the same nude shade as your best friend. It’s all about complimenting your skin tone. There are hundreds of nude shades out there to suit each person’s skin tone. But if the wrong shade is chosen, you could look washed out.

Here are a few tips on how to choose & wear the perfect nude lip shade:

If you are fair-skinned, choose shades that have a soft pink-beige undertone.
If you are medium to olive skinned, choose a rose-pink-beige or peach undertone.
If you are dark-skinned, choose a caramel/bronze or berry undertone.
Don’t choose a shade that is lighter than your skin colour. This can give you a washed out appearance.
If you find that your lip pigmentation can be a bit uneven or dark, you can always neutralize it by first applying concealer (same colour as your skin) to your lips as a base before applying the lipstick.
When wearing a nude lip, wear blush to help brighten up the face.

I have medium to olive skin. One of my favourite nude lipsticks is Yves Saint Laurent ROUGE VOLUPTÉ - Silky Sensual Radiant Lipstick SPF 15 in #3 (Ultimate Beige). It has a rosey, mauve undertone to compliment my skin.

{Products used}:

Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupté Silky Sensual Radiant Lipstick SPF 15 in “Ultimate Beige (#3)”

This post was featured on:

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Hope my tips helped! Good luck!

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{GIVEAWAY - CLOSED!} People Choice Awards: Come Join Me!

TO ENTER:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Goodluck and can't wait to chat with you!

Don't forget to hashtag: #BeautyUnited, #RedCarpetGlam, #TessPCA!

Eyes of the Day (EOTD)

{Review}

L'Oreal Magic Nude Liquid Powder

COVERGIRL Clean Glow Bronzer

Make-up at the Gym?

{Products used}:

What Has Been Your Go-To Nail Polish Shade This Summer?

{Products used}:

Maybelline New York Express Finish in “Peachy Petal (#60)”

Essie in “Ballet Slippers”

{Beauty Panel} How to Choose a Nude Lip Colour

{Products used}: