MissChievous.tv

L'Oréal Infallible Eyeshadows Review

2012-01-26T22:59:00.000+01:00

I've tried out five of these new shadows by L'Oreal and I have to say I'm pretty impressed! The are a drugstore version of the Armani Eyes To Kill shadows (which are incidentally also made by L'Oreal Cosmetics but for their Armani brand) and are a very unique texture. They are soft-pressed eyeshadows which actually have a liquid component to their formula, which makes them buttery smooth and slightly creamy. There is a stopper insert below the lid which you can use to press the eyeshadows down.

Clockwise from the top row left: Flashback Silver, Sahara Treasure, Purple Obsession, All Night Blue, Hourglass Beige

The five I've picked out here all have a very frosty, metallic finish, although I think there are one or two matte shades available (I think the black is matte.) The are really pigmented on my lids and last a very long time without fading or flaking. It's best to use a flat, slightly stiff shading brush to pack these down on the lid; I didn't have very good results with a soft blending brush.

Overall I'm very pleased with these. They have a great color pay-off and an interesting finish, and the colours are really nice and can be combined very well with each other. They are on the more expensive side as far as drugstore products go but I think they are also much more pigmented than most drugstore eyeshadows.

Check out my video review for a closer look and swatches!

Spiced Chicken with Roasted Pumpkin Vegetables Recipe

2012-01-25T21:22:00.001+01:00

I filmed another quick, easy but healthy cooking video! The point of these videos is more to serve as inspiration for healthier eating, you can always substitute specific ingredients or make your own taste adjustments.

This is a really simple and fast dinner solution, and one of my favorite ways how to make vegetables in the wintertime. You can also substitute with root vegetables like beets, rutabaga, parsnips or anything else. Roasting them in the oven means you actually have very little "active" cooking time, and you just have to turn the veggies once in a while in the oven while they are roasting.

I hope you try it out, and let me know how you liked it!

Bold Party Look

2012-01-22T21:53:00.000+01:00

Here's a look I think is perfect for a night out partying, or maybe just for those who are looking to be a bit adventurous with a bolder look. The eyes are smokey navy blue, and the lips are multi-tonal for the added kick. Watch my video below for step-by-step instructions!

Face
Revlon Colorstay foundation, Barry M Natural Dazzle Bronzer, MAC Beauty Powder blush in Play It Proper,

Eyes
KIKO Cream Eyeshadow 09, Ben Nye black eyeliner pencil, L'Oreal Infallible eyehadow in All Night Blue, L'Oreal Infallible eyehadow in Flashback Silver, Ben Nye Toast eyeshadow, L'Oreal Infallible eyeshadow in Hourglass Beige, Sugarpill Bulletproof shadow, Sephora eyeliner in Keep Blue, MAC Studio Finish concealer, Illamasqua Pure Pigment in Beguile, KIKO khol in 706, MAC Blacktrack Fluidline, Max Factor False Lash Effect mascara

Lips
Catrice lipliner in 060 Very Berry, Nivea Lipstick in Bedtime Plum, Revlon Colorburst lipstick in Fuchsia, Barry M Lipsticks in Nr. 100 and Nr. 37

Nails
Anny - The Show Must Go On, China Glaze - Tinsel Town

Watch the video directly on Youtube

Drugstore Look: Smokey Purple

2012-01-19T22:44:00.001+01:00

Many of your requested to see more videos using drugstore makeup. I don't buy too much drugstore makeup here in Switzerland because a) we have a really crappy variety of colors and products, and b) many "cheap" drugstore brands are insanely overpriced here! (Revlon foundation for $30 USD, L'Oreal macara for $25 USD.)

So when I was recently in the States, I went to town at Ulta and Target, picking up loads of cheap but good drugstore products, most of which are not even available here. In many cases, drugstore products can deliver great results, and with so many brands coming out with hip products geared towards a younger consumer, you should have no problem replicating most of my looks with cheaper alternatives (if you live in a country that has a wide variety.)

Here's a soft and pretty purple look using mostly drugstore products. For some items I just had no drugstore product available to me that suited the look, but in the video I give budget alternatives.

Face
Revlon Colorstay foundation, MAC MSF in Blonde

Eyes
MAC Paint in Mauvism, Wet n Wild Color Icon palette #736 Petal Pusher, MAC Feline kohl pencil, L'Oreal Voluminous False Lashes mascara

Lips
Milani Lip Flash pencil in In A Flash, Milani 3D Glitzy Glamour Gloss (purple one)

Nails
OPI Skull & Glossbones

Check out the video below!

Watch directly on Youtube here

When KIKO and CND Effects have a baby...

2012-01-13T10:12:00.001+01:00

...this is their offspring:

What a beautiful baby, don't you think? This is KIKO Nr. 336 as a base, with CND Effects Nr. 561 Sapphire Sparkle on top. I love how the CND Effects polishes just add a bit of pizazz to any cream finish polish, and they work great for layering. This one has an icy blue and purple duochrome. I picked up two of the CND Effects polishes on my recent trip to Vancouver, and I can't wait to try them out with lots of other combinations.

Yup, I changed the shape and length of my nails. I'm starting fresh and I need something low maintenance right now. My nails grow pretty fast, and I like having them short and round sometimes for a change.

I flew in from Vancouver yesterday after a rather pleasant flight - I managed to get a whole middle row to myself on the plane and even got a bit of shut-eye in - but am now rather jet lagged. I went to bed at 8:30pm and woke up this morning at 5am. Nothing like getting up super early and making the most of the day!

Now two brim-filled suitcases await me, ready to be unloaded with laundry to wash, and many beauty products to set aside for a haul video. I recently uploaded a haul of my USA shopping trip with my friend Heather, aka Sokolum79 on Youtube, so make sure to watch it to get a sneak peak of some of the things I purchased. I still bought a lot of other things while in Vancouver, so I may do another one.

I had such a great time in Vancouver with my family, but am now ready to get back into the swing of things and film new videos! Have a stellar day, everyone, and a great weekend! I'm off to the cabin for the weekend to do some skiing in the alps - first time this season. I'm stoked to try out my new boarding pants and jacket from Roxy and Burton to see how well they fare.

How to Remove Glitter Polish

2012-01-05T08:37:00.001+01:00

Glitter nail polish. I love how it looks, simply hate taking it off! I go through about a million cotton pads and at least half a bottle of polish remover if I'm going by the traditional method. My arms start to hurt with all the rubbing I have to do. (Um, yes, that sounds so wrong. Haha!)

This is a much simpler method how to remove glitter polish using foil. It's quite popular on nail forums and with nail techs, so why not try it at home next time? It makes the glitter polish just slide right off - rub free! No joke.

Watch the video directly on Youtube.

Megan Fox Glamorous Neutral Makeup

2011-12-28T07:10:00.002+01:00

This look is inspired by the signature neutral look worn my Megan Fox at many movie premieres and photo shoots. I think Megan has changed her style a bit lately, she wears more red lipstick now, but this is based more on her older natural but glamorous look. It's perfect for many occasions, for example weddings, special events, prom, or pretty much anytime you want to look sexy and elegant without looking too done up.

Face
NARS Sheer Glow foundation in Mont Blanc, Barry M Natural Dazzle, La Femme Nectar Peach blush

Eyes
MAC Untitled Paint, MAC Shroom, MAC Jest, MAC Soft Brown, Catrice Go Charlie Brown, MAC Blacktrack Fluidline, Illamasqua Masquara in Raven, Elite Lashes Nr. 18

Lips
Rimmel Addiction lipliner, MAC All Revealing lipstick, MAC Prrr Lipglass

Nails
Illamasqua Rampage

Watch the video directly on Youtube

Battle of the Holiday Bulge - My Tips on Avoiding Weight Gain

2011-12-17T09:49:00.000+01:00

It's that time of the year again when many of us gorge on deliciously decadent food and spend our free time indoors, lazing on the couch watching movies, entertaining with family and friends, or doing not much at all. As a result, we tend to put on some extra pounds during the Holiday season. For some this is just a part of the deal, but it doesn't have to be. You can still enjoy the Holidays without getting completely derailed from your diet and workout routine, without having to deny yourself every sweet indulgence.

I put together a video with my own tips and ideas how you can strike a balance between enjoying yourself and eating Holiday goodies, without packing on the pounds. If you're interested, check it out!

Or watch directly on Youtube

Sugar Plum Fairy Christmas Look

2011-12-15T13:08:00.000+01:00

Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker was the inspiration behind this holiday makeup, namely the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy. I wanted to create a look inspired by red-toned plum shades, mixed with shimmery light gold and some glitter for a bit of festive sparkle. I hope you enjoy this look! Happy Holidays everyone!

Face & Cheek

Lancome Teint Idole foundation, Urban Decay Glide-On Cheek Tint in Fetish, Kryolan Glamour Sparks Nr. 5

Eyes

NYX Jumbo Pencil in Milk, Inglot AMC Shine 30, MAC Cranberry, Inglot DS 494, Catrice black gel eyeliner, Lit Cosmetics Twisted Sistah glitter, Lit Cosmetics Clearly Liquid Glitter base, L'Oreal Volume Million Lashes mascara

Lips

MAC Myth lipstick, MAC Date Night Dazzleglass

Nails

OPI Merry Midnight

Earrings

Talullah Tu

Watch the video on Youtube directly

Sparkly Glitter Christmas Nails

2011-12-07T22:01:00.001+01:00

I just love fancy nails at Christmas time, and nothing screams Christmas to me like deep red and gold. I decided to create these sparkly glittery nails, which I think are perfect for the holidays. When I had this on my nails, even my boyfriend commented how Christmasy it looked, and you know how men are about noticing things like nails!

Products:
Nailtek Foundation II
China Glaze Short and Sassy
Essence Nail Art Special Effects Topper in You're A Gold Mine
Cinema Secrets Hollywood Lights glitter in Oscar
Fan nail brush is from ebay
Seche Vite Topcoat

I hope you enjoy this tutorial! Check out my video below.

Video on Youtube

Lady Gaga "Marry The Night" Music video makeup

2011-12-04T21:20:00.002+01:00

One of Lady Gaga's makeup looks from her new music video caught my eye...

So I decided to recreate it! I personally love this look and would definitely wear this for a special night out somewhere. The look is focused around a defined crease line, winged eyeliner with pointed ends on the inner and outer corner, bold red lips, and strong brows.

Watch the video tutorial!

Face
Lancome Teint Idole foundation, Ben Nye concealer wheel, Kryolan Micro Silk Powder, Barry M Natural Dazzle bronzer

Eyes
MAC Untitled Paint, Sleek Oh So Special palette, Lancome Le Crayon Kohl in Brun, MAC Blacktrack Fluidline, Max Factor Natural Glaze eyeliner kohl, Essence Multi Action mascara, Elite Lashes Nr. 6, Duo Lash Adhesive

Brows
MAC Brows in Spiked, Sugarpill Bulletproof

Lips
Catrice Lip pencil in The Roof Is On Fire, Illamasqua Sangers lipstick

Watch the video on Youtube here

Disney's Princess Jasmine is reborn!

2011-11-25T21:24:00.001+01:00

I've wanted to do an interpretation of Disney's Princess Jasmine for the longest time, and since I missed out on doing this for Halloween, I thought - sod it - I'll do it NOW! Why not?

I didn't really want to do a look that actually mimicked the character in the animation film; rather, I wanted to allow Jasmine to be reborn in her own new look. The colors were inspired by her outfit, and the style of makeup from Arab looks, since she is supposed to be an Arabian princess after all.

Face
Revlon Colorstay foundation, Ben Nye concealer wheel, MAC MSF in Blonde

Eyes
Urban Decay Primer Potion, Ben Nye Turquoise, Nars Outremer, Kryolan Cloud, Sugarpill Bulletproof, Calypso Mineral Twilight, Lit Cosmetics Peacock glitter, MAC Blacktrack Fluidliner, Kryolan Aqua Color White, MAC Mixing Medium, Ben Nye black eyeliner, L'Oreal Volume Million Lashes mascara

Lips
P2 Sunset Boulevard, Revlon Lipgloss in Pink Pop

Nails
Models Own - Feeling Blue

Jewelry / Hairband
Talullah Tu

Watch the video directly on Youtube

I hope you enjoy the tutorial and the look!!

Black Friday Sales! LiLash & Sigma

2011-11-25T03:17:00.002+01:00

There's a couple of really great sales I wanted to tell you about for some of my favorite products. First off, Lilash! This is my favorite miracle product for long, luscious eyelashes. You can check out the video where I reviewed the product in detail:

I also posted a blog entry with pictures here.

Lilash / Librow Sale:
http://tinyurl.com/lilash-blackfriday

Details: $99 per tube of LiLash and LiBrow (regular price $140) Plus Free Shipping & 2 Free Gifts with the Purchase of 2 or more products!
Coupon Code: THANKFUL (although the landing page may auto apply that coupon)
Valid 11/24 to 11/29 ONLY!

The next worthwile sale is from Sigma!

Sigma is offering FREE WORLDWIDE SHIPPING on all their brushes, makeup kits and accessories (everything in their online store) for one day only. Plus there are some great items on sale in the "Special Deals" section, which you can find on the left side menu on their website. I've recently tried out the Synthetic Precision Kit (pictured above) and really love it, just haven't had time yet for a detailed review.

Sigma Sale:
http://tinyurl.com/sigmamakeup
Coupon Code: BF2011

Friday, Nov 25, 2011 (1 day only)
9am - 5pm Central Standard Time (USA)
4pm - midnight European time (Berlin, Brussels, Paris)

The above are affiliated links, but this post is not sponsored. You can watch my detailed video on all these sales below:

Cranberry-Orange Cheesecake Recipe

2011-11-22T19:19:00.001+01:00

I tried out a new recipe for cheesecake and I absolutely loved how it turned out! This cheesecake was so incredibly delicious. I made it for a dinner party with 6 guests, and everyone loved it. It's so perfect for upcoming holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, and makes for a beautiful presentation.

Crust

1 9-ounce box chocolate wafer cookies, crumbled
2 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, grated
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
dash of cinnamon

Filling

4 8-ounce packages cream cheese, room temperature (about 900g)
1 cup sugar (200g)
3 tablespoons all purpose flour
4 large eggs
grated peel from 2 oranges
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1-2 tablespoons orange liqueur (like Grand Manier) or brandy

Topping

1/2 cup sugar (100g)
3 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon water
2 1/2 cups fresh cranberries (500-600g)
1/2 teaspoon grated orange peel
1-2 tablespoons Cranberry liqueur (optional)

For crust:
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Finely grind cookies and chocolate in processor. Add cinnamon, then butter; blend until moist clumps form. Using plastic wrap as aid, press crumb mixture onto bottom and 1 1/4 inches up sides of 9-inch-diameter springform pan with 2 3/4-inch-high sides. Bake until set, about 8 minutes. Cool completely.

For filling:
Increase oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Using electric mixer, beat cream cheese and sugar in large bowl until light. Beat in flour. Beat in eggs, 1 at a time, just until blended. Beat in orange peel, liqueur, and vanilla.

Pour filling into crust. Bake the cheesecake in a waterbath, or slide a roasting tray of water underneath the cake form. Bake until filling is just set in center but still moves slightly, about 1 hour. Turn off oven, place wooden spoon into the oven door to allow the heat to escape slowly, and let the cheesecake cool fully. Then cover and chill overnight.

For topping:
Stir sugar and water in medium saucepan over medium-low heat until sugar dissolves. Increase heat to medium; add cornstarch mixture and bring to simmer. Add cranberries; cook until beginning to pop, stirring often, about 3 minutes. Stir in orange peel and cranberry liqueur. Cool completely. Cover and chill overnight. (Cheesecake and cranberry topping can be made a day ahead. Keep refrigerated.)

Run knife around top edge of cheesecake to loosen. Release pan sides. Top cheesecake with cranberries and serve immediately.

Scarlett Johansson Holiday inspired look

2011-11-12T20:05:00.001+01:00

I love this picture of Scarlett in the Dolce & Gabbana fragrance ad for The One, and I thought it would make a great holiday look. Whether it be for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah or any other holidays you celebrate in the winter season, I always think red lips are so perfect for special occasions. I also think this is a more modern way to wear red lips, without doing the 50s pin-up throw-back.

Face
Lancome Teint Idole foundation mixed with Neutrogena Healthy Skin, Makeup Forever Lift concealer, Ben Nye Natural blush, MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in Shimpagne

Eyes
MAC Bamboon Paint, Catrice Go Charlie Brown, MAC Soft Brown, Ben Nye Apricot, MAC All That Glitters, MAC Vanilla, Lancome Crayon Kohl 02 Brun, NYX Jumbo Pencil in Milk, MAC Solar White, Max Factor Natural Glaze kohl pencil, Max Factor False Lash Effect mascara

Lips
MAC Red Enriched lipliner, Sleek Pout Paint in Pin Up

Nails
Catrice - New York

Watch the video on Youtube

Long Hair is Long

2011-11-12T03:38:00.001+01:00

Above is a picture of the length and state of my hair at the moment. It's longer than it's been since ages, but the ends are also quite dry and in desperate need of a trim. I also haven't colored my hair in over half a year, so this is very close to my natural color by now, only the ends are very red-toned due to fading dye jobs. I made a hair appointment for next Tuesday and am quite excited. I wasn't too happy with my last haircut, so am going back to my old stylist (whose salon is just really out of the way for me but I don't want another mediocre cut.)

Here are a few pictures I'm going to bring in to discuss with him.

Ashley Benson at the Teen Choice Awards this year. This cut is so flattering and it looks like it would be a bit easier to manage as well.

I also quite like this style of Jennifer Love Hewitt, it looks very flattering. The only thing I'm really nervous about is cutting my bangs to that length again. My bangs (or fringe as it's know in the UK) are just very unruly and always do their own thing, and tend to spring up into frizzy curls. The longer they are, the more the weight pulls them straight, which is a lot easier for me to deal with.

The other issue I have is having to wash my hair more frequently, especially due to working out. I can go maximum 2 days without washing, because sweating during a work-out means that sweat also gets into the roots. Using dry shampoo works sometimes, but it also makes my crown hair look dull and gross, so I only like to use it when absolutely necessary.

I still have a couple days to find more inspiration pictures and to decide on something, and I'll let you know how it turns out after I get a cut!

Deep Forest Green Eyes

2011-11-06T20:47:00.000+01:00

I wanted to create another sultry look for fall, and let myself get inspired while walking through a lush coniferous forest. I think this look would be perfect for the upcoming holidays, as I just love green - it's one of my favorite colors to use at this time of the year.

Face
Neutrogena Healthy Skin mixed with Revlon Colorstay foundation, Kryolan Micro Silk powder, Lancome Teint Miracle concealer

Cheek
Ben Nye Latte, MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in Shimpagne

Eyes
Urban Decay Primer Potion, MAC Humid, dark green shade from the Sleek iDivine PPQ palette 659, Ben Nye Toast, Ben Nye black eyeliner pencil, Sugarpill Bulletproof, KIKO Nr. 411 kohl pencil, L'Oreal Volume Million Lash mascara, Red Cherry Lashes, DUO lash glue

Lips
Catrice 030 Lost in the Rose Wood, Revlon Soft Nude

Nailpolish
Anny - 5th Avenue, Essence Color & Go - Time for Romance

Watch the video directly on Youtube

Die Dita Von Teese parfum Verlosung findet ihr hier auf meiner Facebook Seite.

Süddeutsche Zeitung feature (German newspaper)

2011-11-01T02:16:00.003+01:00

I was recently interviewed for the Süddeutsche Zeitung, one of the biggest and most prolific newspapers in Germany. The article is written in German, and discusses the rise and popularity of haul videos on Youtube. I was interviewed for this since my channel is one of the most viewed and subscribed channels in all of Europe. Here are some excerpts which I have translated for you. You can enlarge the picture above full size if you want to read it better.

Julia, aka MissChievous, a citizen of Switzerland, has dark hair and a face like a porcelain doll, and is one of Europe's most successful "beauty gurus", as they are known. Julia has fans from all around the world, she creates beauty videos in German and English language. More than 370,000 people have subscribed to her channel, and her videos have been watched 8 million time. (My note: This is wrong, my videos have been watched over 80 million times!) "My viewers don't want to solely rely on commercials. I give my honest opinions about products, and I look like a regular person, not like a model. I think this is important," says Julia.

She works 20-30 hours per week on her videos, replies to comments and questions, and interacts with her fans. For many viewers, these girls are their role models. But for some, it results in jealousy from viewers, daily insults are very common.

Some beauty gurus become marketing experts, and interact with their fans on many platforms - Youtube, Facebook, Twitter - to increase their reach. They link to their beauty blogs and websites, some even have their own online shops. It becomes much more than simply a hobby: "Things have changed since the brands have noticed the potential of Youtube," says Julia. "The videos have become more professional, less casual, and some viewers have become distrustful. Often I have to assure them that my opinion is not for sale."

The article is quite long so I can't translate the whole text but it's quite well written. Some of my quotes are a bit different than what I actually said.

Thanks to Eva Geilersdorfer for the interview!

Click here to see more press clippings about me.

Demon Halloween Makeup

2011-10-30T01:24:00.001+02:00

Are you ready to be possessed for Halloween? Then maybe this demon look is right up your alley! Enjoy :)

Brows
Kryolan washable spirit gum, Kryolan Cine-Wax, Ben Nye Neutral Set powder, Ben Nye concealer wheel

Foundation
MAC Airbrush foundation in White, Makeup Forever Mat Velvet+, Kryolan HD Micro Silk powder

Eyes
Catrice black gel eyeliner, Kryolan grease paint wheel (for bruises), Kryolan matte eyeshadow in dark burgundy (doesn't have a number), Sugarpill Bulletproof eyeshadow, Ben Nye Cherry Red eyeshadow, L'Oreal Volume Million Lash mascara, Red Cherry Lashes

Lips
Ben Nye Cherry Red, Kryolan matte burgundy, Lancome kohl pencil in Noir, Barry M Lipstick Nr. 37, Illamasqua Pure Pigment in Berber

Nails
China Glaze Wagon Trail

Costume is from http://tinyurl.com/fancydresscostumes1

Watch the video on Youtube

Am I Insane Enough? My Fitness Diary (8)

2011-10-26T22:16:00.007+02:00

I'm undertaking the biggest challenge I have faced so far fitness wise. Yes, I'm going to attempt to do the Insanity plan from start to finish for the next 60 days. Well it's actually 62 days but who's counting?

This is the 60-day plan that comes with the Insanity DVD - they aren't kidding around, they mean business. I printed out the plan on a calender to keep track of what I need to do each day.

October is nearly complete so here's November and December...and no I don't work out at midnight, my printer randomly added those time slots.

It's composed of daily workouts, six times a week. The first 4 weeks are already hard with High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) for about 40 minutes each, then 1 week of "recovery" (which is pretty much more cardio but not as hard), then 4 weeks of general mayhem with HIIT workouts that are about an hour in length. Most workouts combine cardio training with strength (push-ups, squats, lunges, abs, etc.)

This is not a workout plan that I would recommend for beginners - it's way too much if you're just getting started. Remember, I've been training since January where I started with about 2-3 sessions of moderate exercise per week. I've also been doing Insanity off and on for the past month or more, but never according to the given plan because quite frankly, it's a bit crazy!

So why now? Basically, I've hit a plateau - I'm pretty happy where I am physically, but I want to have more of an athletic figure. No matter what I do, my last bit of remaining stomach fat is still "there" and I know that's ok, but I want to really challenge myself. I want to see if I can actually do this and get in the best shape of my life - physically and mentally. I'm not sure if I will be able to get through this program, but here's hoping.

I could have timed this better. It means I'll be under a strict nutrition plan up until Christmas, which means goodbye all the Christmas cookies, cakes, and liqueurs. I've decided to completely give up alcohol for this period - no more wine with dinner. I won't be changing my actual food plan much from what I'm already eating since I'm quite good with that as is. I still eat a lot of food and large portions, I never go hungry. I've recently added in magnesium supplements to help recover my muscles, since magnesium deficiency is quite common with increased sports activities.

I still don't know how strict I will be with myself during this. I somehow can't see myself not eating anything sweet or lovely for the next two months, as that is part of the Christmas holiday traditions for me, but let's see. It also means I'll have to continue my workouts when I'm on holiday this year in Vancouver - I fly out on December 20. I'm sure I will have to skip days here and there, but I'm going to try my hardest.

Why Insanity?

I love the effectiveness of the workouts and how quickly time flies. The music is not annoying, and the trainer Shaun actually motivates me, instead of making corny jokes like on other DVDs. It's a workout DVD that is very gender-neutral, unlike Turbofire which is aimed clearly at women. I like the fact that none of the women in Insanity seem to have fake boobs (as far as I can tell.) I also like how most of the workouts are done standing up, I really am not much of a lying-down-on-a-mat-doing-Pilates girl, I love the energy of jumping around. It's incredibly high energy and really tough, but somehow I like it. If you're serious about getting into the best shape of your life and don't have any problems with your joints and doing high impact sports - this is a great workout DVD.

I took some before pictures today - I can't wait to see how my body will transform after this!

Do you have any fitness or dietary goals in the period leading up to the holiday season? Please share in the comments!

Chocolate Shoot with Smart Studio

2011-10-26T20:44:00.002+02:00

I recently collaborated with Smart Studio (you know from the car company Smart) to produce a fun, short film about Switzerland. The studio is essentially a Smart car, modified with surround cameras to give an intimate feel. The Smart team travels around the world meeting local "Insiders" to show them around the city they visit, and get a closer connection with the culture and scene.

A few weeks ago I filmed with them at a confiserie (a chocolate making bakery) in Zurich. It was a lot of fun - we learned how to make a chocolate cow! The tasting was the fun part of course. You can watch the finished video on Youtube.

Check out Smart Studio on Facebook for more fun videos of the team jetting around the globe and meeting local bloggers, artists, designers and musicians. The videos are always really amusing and designed for a young, engaged audience.

Here's some pictures from the shoot!

The host Pete and I outside the Confiserie Pfyl in Zurich

It's chocolate making time, complete in our sexy food-handling outfits. There were large vats of liquid milk, dark and white chocolate - yum!

Pete and I made this chocolate cow - we named her Heidi!

With the film crew and the "real" chocolatiers from Pfyl Bakery.

HEIDIIIIIII!!!!!!

Thanks so much to Smart Studio for the fun day - I had a blast!

Before & After my Weightloss (Pictures)

2011-10-24T14:51:00.003+02:00

I finally had the courage to post some before pictures in my latest weightloss update video. It's so strange to look back on those photos now, I sometimes don't recognize myself. In this video I talk about how I lost 33 pounds (15kg) and dropped 4 dress sizes and kept it off through healthy eating and exercise. No diet pills, no quick fixes - just making healthy lifestyle changes. I also go into detail about what changes I made, what exercise I do and how frequently, what I eat, and the challenges I have faced in this journey.

Watch the video on Youtube

Red Riding Hood Costume & Makeup

2011-10-19T21:23:00.004+02:00

I had so much fun creating this Little Red Riding Hood video, from the costume, to the makeup, to the actual filming in the forest. It took the greater part of a whole day to film and edit this, but I think it was worth it.

My inspiration was Red Riding Hood as a sweet little girl playing with her big sister's blue eyeshadow, but I also wanted to add a grown-up element, as this costume look is meant for adults. I think the look is both sweet and sexy, without losing the character of a frightened girl lost in the woods with the big bad wolf after her!

Face
Revlon Colorstay foundation in Buff mixed with Neutrogena Healthy Skin foundation in Classic Ivory, Ben Nye DR-12 Pink Blush

Eyes
Kryolan Cloud, NYX White, BellaPierre Colorstay, Illamasqua pigment in Beguile, Margaret Astor brown eyeliner pencil, MAC Soft Brown, MAC Blacktrack Fluidline, Max Factor False Lash Effect macara, Red Cherry lashes Nr. 203

Lips
MAC Red Enriched liner, MAC Red lipstick, Cinema Secrets red cosmetic glitter

Nails
China Glaze - Ruby Pumps

Costume
http://tinyurl.com/fancydresscostumes1

Watch the video on Youtube

Dita Von Teese Interview & Extras

2011-10-18T00:03:00.002+02:00

Just an update for you to let you know I've now uploaded my interview with Dita Von Teese on Youtube. I felt the interview went quite well and Dita talked about her new perfume, her upcoming beauty book, her inspirations, her favorite makeup products and her insecurities. Check it out!

On my second Youtube channel I filmed some behind the scenes footage from the event in Berlin, including a hotel room tour, footage from the cocktail reception, the dinner with Dita, what I wore, and my overall thoughts on the events.

Thanks so much for watching!

Dita Von Teese Perfume Launch in Berlin

2011-10-15T21:25:00.002+02:00

I was invited to attend Dita Von Teese's perfume launch in Berlin - a dream come true for me! Dita is such an icon in the world of fashion and beauty, I was extremely excited to be one of the only two Bloggers invited to attend, along with reporters handpicked from Germany's top beauty and fashion magazines and TV. Not only that, but I was also permitted access to the VIP cocktail party and reception with Dita, followed by a dinner in a swanky restaurant, and granted a 20 minute private interview with her the next day.

*SQUEAL*

I have two videos coming up spread over both my Youtube channels including the anticipated personal interview with Dita, so be sure to watch out for them! This is only the picture and word portion of the event.

I arrived in the afternoon and took a taxi to the Lux Eleven Design Hotel, where we were staying, and promptly filmed a room tour. I didn't even have any time to relax; I had to start getting ready for the event immediately - hair, makeup, get changed.

I met up with fellow Blogger Nadine (aka Empathy25) and Daniel from Jungmut and we had a moment to chat before we sped off to Soho House, a private members club and hotel in Berlin which is often booked for such engagements. I was thrown amongst journalists from Germany's top beauty and fashion magazines, which was quite an experience in itself - some were very curious about my work, others were downright snobbish and disdainful. (All the more amusing to me since my Youtube, website, Facebook and Twitter sites receive more combined hits than most of their magazine's monthly circulation numbers - hah!)

We were admitted to a lounge that was adorned with beautiful models passing around feathers clouded with Dita's perfume, waiters circulating with bubbly and delicious hors d'oeuvres, and everyone dressed to the nines. It was a surreal atmosphere - we were all excitedly waiting for Dita to make her appearance, and she finally did! There was a moderated introduction where she talked to us about her perfume, before we were asked to step to the side as the doors would now be opened momentarily for the press photographers and TV - the vultures descended, running and elbowing their way to the front to get pictures of Dita, who played her part perfectly, posing as if it were second nature to her.

The photographers were only allowed a few short minutes with her, during which time the room was abuzz with shouting and the constant flashes of the cameras, before they were asked to leave for the next crowd of reporters. Meanwhile we sipped on our champagne, chatted, and took in the scene unfolding before us.

After the cocktail reception, a smaller selection of the invited guests and VIPs we were chauffeured to the stylish and upscale Grill Royal restaurant, where our party had a private room where admittance was by guestlist only. Dita's bodyguards stood grim faced at the door and kept watch.

The decoration was beautiful! The table setting was kept in black and red just as Dita's perfume is packaged, with lustrous deep red roses, votive candles, and each person had a personalized name card for their placement. Tasteful and artistic nudes adorned the walls. We were seated and anxiously waited for Dita to arrive. She sat in the middle - I couldn't believe I was sitting down to have dinner with Dita!!

Now I'm a foodie so you know what's coming - food pics!

For starters we had a choice of salads - one was a fennel-pear concoction with walnuts, the other was mixed baby greens on a bed of grilled vegetables. I had the fennel and it was a little bit bland, and wished I had chosen the greens.

As a main we had a choice between Argentinian sirloin steak, fish, or a vegetarian dish. For me it was a no-brainer: I took the Argentinian sirloin and requested it rare. It was perfection! I can honestly say it has been ages since I have had such a top quality steak between my teeth, perfectly rare inside without leaking blood. Served alongside was a creamy Sauce Bernaise, green beans, and some potato dish that reminded me vaguely of french fries - I barely touched those.

Dessert was again a connoisseur's highlight as waiters placed tiers of mouth watering and beautifully handcrafted goodies before us.

Ok WHAT! No, no, no...we need to see that again, close up!

I think I tried a little bit of everything it was that delicious! The crème brulée was one of my favorites, but then again I don't think I've ever had crème brulée that I didn't enjoy. The chocolate cakes were so rich, and with some of them I didn't even know what I was eating but I knew it was making me want more.

I kept sneaking glances at Dita, who looked like the perfect doll, and who I saw heartily eating a steak the same as everyone else. After dinner, she took out a rhinestone encrusted compact, a tube of red lipstick, and quietly touched up her ruby lips - very elegant.

I got home to the hotel at about 1:30 am and promptly fell into bed as the next day was filled with events again. I met up once more with Nadine and Daniel to tuck into breakfast at the hotel where we discussed a rundown of the scheduled interviews. I'm so honored and proud that I was among the lucky ones, since I was told that hundreds of reporters had requested interviews and only a select few were given the chance - a BIG affirmation not only for myself, but for social and new media in general!

Over breakfast, my tension was definitely starting to build even though I had a list of questions prepared. At 11:00am we drove again to Soho House where the interviews were scheduled back to back in 20 minute intervals in one of the beautiful and retro decorated hotel suites.

The night before we had been informed we probably would not be allowed to film for Youtube, as Dita and her team are very particular about what is allowed to be published. I was very disappointed and really tried my best to convince her people that indeed it was so important for us to be allowed to film, the same as the TV reporters, as our audiences are equally as large, in some cases even bigger! I knew how disappointed my fans and subscribers would be if I came back "empty handed" and had no video footage to show them.

I really went to bat, and low and behold, we were informed on the day of the interview we would be allowed to film! I was elated. I entered the suite with my camera, tripod and questions in hand and was personally greeted by Dita. I was flustered at first but then realized, she's just a person like the rest of us, I should just do what I do best and get my job done professionally, and have fun doing it.

We began the interview and I was happy to see that Dita was very open and talkative about everything I asked her, never did she ask to skip over questions or gave one-word answers. Things went very smoothly, we had a laugh together chatting about beauty, makeup and her life, and time flew by! Suddenly my time was up, I thanked Dita profusely for agreeing to the interview and we had just enough time to snap a picture.

I sure felt like an Amazonian compared to this petite and almost fragile looking woman. Afterwards she gave me a copy of her book, autographed in my name! What a nice gesture - thank you Dita.

Now since this whole event was about the launch of her first perfume, let's talk about that. I received full sized gratis samples of the entire line, including the perfume with the atomizer pump, the cute purse sized version for on-the-go, the shower gel and the body lotion. The purse sized version is an excellent idea and I wish more perfumes offered this. The nozzle has a special stopper function, so no fear of it spraying in your purse.

On the evening of the cocktail reception, Dita herself said she wanted a perfume that represents her fully - timeless elegance, a master of seduction, and nothing to do with foodie, girly, or baby smells. From the press release:

Dita Von Teese created a timeless scent which opens with a head note composed of fresh peonies, fizzy bergamot, and slightly spicy Bourbon pepper. The heart of the perfume beguiles the senses with a full and at the same time pure bouquet of Bulgarian rose, Tahitian Tiaré petals, and fresh jasmine. And in the base note, the mystical and warm scents of patchouli, musk, and smoky Gaiac wood and sandalwood captivate all who smell it.

Like an homage to the 1930s, the black glass bottles express Dita Von Teese’s glamour and allure along with her love for all things vintage. With their elaborate details, the flacons represent the type of luxurious accessories found in the boudoir of any true Femme Totale.

I feel the perfume really captures Dita's personality - and this coming from someone who owns no other celebrity perfumes. It is a heady, opulent and dramatic scent without being old-fashioned or headache inducing. It is both musky and floral, without being cloyingly sweet or overpowering. This probably isn't the typical perfume that young women or teen girls would reach for because it doesn't have the popular gourmand (vanilla, apple or strawberry) notes, nor is it light, fresh and citrusy. For me personally, this isn't the type of perfume that I would wear during the daytime, it's a bit much for that setting. I can see myself reaching for this perfume if I want to feel extra sexy, womanly and grown-up for a special evening out somewhere, maybe wearing a beautiful dress and high heels. If you like womanly perfumes that lean on the stronger side, I would definitely check this one out.

Dita Von Teese perfume will be in stores late October 2011, and the suggested retail prices are as follows:

Eau de Parfum, 20 ml, MSRP: € 16.50
Eau de Parfum, 40 ml, MSRP: € 28.00
Deodorant Spray, 150 ml, MSRP: € 11.50
Shower Gel, 200 ml, MSRP: € 11.50
Body Lotion, 200 ml, MSRP: € 11.50
Gift Set incl. Eau de Parfum, 20 ml, and Shower Gel, 75 ml, MSRP: € 16.50

For more information on Dita's perfume:
Facebook.com/DitaVonTeeseParfums
twitter.com/DVTParfums

I then had a few more hours in Berlin so I took a Taxi over to the Kryolan store - this is quickly becoming one of my favorite make-up brands! Honestly, many of their products blow department store brands clear out of the water and at an affordable price point. Why must you play so hard to get, Kryolan, I want to make sweet love to you!!! I shall film a haul on that sometime later.

Then it was back to the airport and a long journey home, but it was a memorable experience - understatement of the year.

Thanks so much to Daniel and Jungmut - your kindness and organizational talent was much appreciated!

XO,
Julia