Shades of Green

Do you ever play around with makeup? Or do you just stick to your normal routine with the same shades and colors? I like trying new things, and makeup is no exception. I have bluish-green eyes, so I usually stick with eyeshadow in golds and purples because those are true compliments to my eye color...but I thought I'd try something different today and played around with some green shades. I also did some highlighting and contouring as well using different shades of foundation instead of a bronzer and concealer. I wasn't sure how well the green would work with my eyes, I didn't want the colors to clash and look stupid, but it actually made my eyes look brighter. I was super excited with the results and decided to share it with you!

Here's what I used to create the above look:
Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer
Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage as an eyeshadow primer
Make Up For Ever HD Invisible Coverage Foundation as a highlighter
MAC Mineralize Satin Finish Foundation as a contour
Tarte Cheek Stain
Clinique Color Surge Eyeshadow Super Shimmer in daybreak, sparkling sage, and peacock
Clinique Surge Eye Shadow Stay Matte in slate as an eyeliner
NARS Illuminator
Sephora Outrageous Volume Mascara
Armani Rouge D'Armani Lipstick
Armani Eyebrow Pencil

Here's another photo...using a vibrant filter to make the colors pop...love!

Happy New Year!

2013 is officially here...and a new year means new beginnings!

2012 was an amazing year. I've learned so much about life, learned so much about myself, and put plans into motion that I didn't think would ever happen. I truly believe that if you think positive, positive things will happen. Negativity is like a disease, it eats away at you, torments you, makes you miserable and sick. Let go of the negative and focus on the positive, the good in life! You'll be surprised at how quickly things turn around for you.

I have so many blessings that I am grateful for: my career is moving in the right direction, my awesome nephew was born and has shown me how beautiful and special life is, my family is the best and they are happy and healthy, my friends are absolutely amazing, Dennis and I are growing and our relationship becomes stronger each day, and I wake up every day with a roof over my head, food to eat, and people who love me. When it comes down to it...that's all you really need.

Dennis and I with our sweet nephew. He's too adorable!

I do, however, have some resolutions...as I'm sure all of us do. I need to take better care of myself mentally, emotionally, and physically. I need to understand that striving for perfection is ok as a goal, but literally trying to achieve perfection is not possible...and if I keep trying, it will be the death of me. I need to accept that I've put forth my best and move on. It may not be enough sometimes, but at least it's my best. I need to take better care of my body...can't remember the last time I was actually at the gym. I need to nurture and care for my body so it doesn't give out much sooner than it should. As much as I love yoga and love how it makes me feel, I bet I can count on one hand how many yoga classes I attended in 2012. Unacceptable. I must make the time for myself. I have to.

Four eyes, DC trip, my 30th birthday, and our LA trip.

My other goal for 2013 is to grow my blog even more. It has already grown so quickly since launching in September, and I have big ideas and plans that I can't wait to start working on. I have so much fun writing and sharing with you, and I didn't even anticipate all of the followers and loyal readers. Thank you SO much for reading and coming back to see what's new. Most of all, thanks for all of the support!

Some of the wonderful people in my life

Count your blessings, leave the negative in 2012, aim high, and dream big! I hope you all have an amazing 2013! I'm really looking forward to it!

Stippling...

Oops! I switched blogging platforms! You'll be redirected to my new blog where you can search for "Stippling" to read about creating the airbrush look....hope you enjoy! Sorry for the inconvenience!

xoxo Kim

Remember in art class there was a technique called stippling? I'm no artist, I can barely write my name legibly, but I use this stippling technique every day...on my face. If you can't remember what stippling is, or didn't have an art class in school, it's basically drawing or painting with tiny dots. This method of applying foundation to your face is what creates the much desired "airbrush effect."

My post on the Flawless Face has been one of my most popular posts, so I thought I'd share another trick with you and demonstrate stippling. I learned this technique from a makeup artist several years ago, and it's a common technique used within the industry.

You'll obviously need a stippling brush, but if you don't have one or don't want to shell out the money for one, you can somewhat create the same effect with a makeup sponge or your fingers...but a brush is best. I actually just bought a great new foundation brush that I'm obsessed with:

This is Tarte's Airbrush Finish Bamboo Foundation Brush...and it's aahhhmazing! I highly recommend this brush, but if you'd like a more traditional stippling brush, Sephora has one in it's professional brush line. I have it as well.

Back to stippling...

You must start with a clean, moisturized face. How you care for your skin will greatly effect how makeup looks on your face. Cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturize ladies!

You could apply a primer next to help create an even canvas for your foundation, but I don't use primers unless I'm doing my makeup for a special occasion. So, next is applying foundation. I'm using a Christian Dior foundation: Diorskin Nude Skin-Glowing foundation, another great foundation if you're looking for a new brand. I just happened to have a bit of this left and I'm trying to finish it up...no sense in being wasteful!

I have my own method of stippling, and everyone is different, so go with what works best for you. I like to pump the foundation on my hand first, then lightly dip the brush into the foundation on my hand. And I do mean lightly. You'll be amazed at how little foundation you need when you start using this method.

Once you have a small bit of foundation on your brush, apply it to your face by "dotting" into your skin. Use short, quick taps and the foundation will blend smoothly. After blending well, dip your brush in more foundation and continue stippling across your face. It's that easy! The stippling helps create a smooth, even finish without using a ton of makeup. Of course you can build your coverage as needed for any red or uneven spots, acne, scars, etc. Stippling is also a great method when you're applying foundation over another layer...like primers or concealers.

Oh, and just an FYI...I know some makeup tutorials show you to "buff" and move your brush in circular motions, but that actually raises the small hairs on your face and makes your face look fuzzy (not attractive). It's best to brush using downward strokes so you don't lift those tiny hairs.

Here are links to the foundation I'm using, as well as brushes:


If you're trying stippling for the first time, leave me a comment and let me know how it worked for you!

Feathers

I can't even begin to tell you how obsessed I am with this feather vest. I wear it way too often, but I really enjoy creating new looks with it. For this particular outfit, I wanted a relaxed feel, baggy yet boho...and I had to wear my new favorite kicks, of course! I topped off the look with my Rebecca Minkoff bag Dennis got me for my birthday this year. He's too good to me :)


 Full details on where you can find these items below:

 

Vince Shirred Neckline Shirt

Buffalo David Bitton Nayia Vest

Buffalo David Bitton Cropped Pant

Steve Madden Shoes

Alex & Ani bracelets

Rebecca Minkoff MAC Daddy bag

Got some ideas on how I should wear the vest? Leave a comment and let me know!

Blown Away

There's a secret weapon used as an instant self-esteem booster. It's called a blowout, and if done properly, will change your attitude instantly.

Let's be honest, there's nothing worse than leaving the salon with a bum blowout. It's such a disappointment for a professional to style your hair...spending time and money for your hair to look great...and it falls flat as soon as you walk outdoors. I've searched far and wide for the best blowout. I stumbled upon it several years ago and have kept it my little secret. Blow drying hair should be considered an art, and Aaron at Aaron Emanuel Salon in NYC's Upper East Side, is the Michelangelo of blowouts. Think I'm overreacting? Just hear me out...

Fresh blowout from Aaron at his salon on the UES.

I have the worst hair. It's fine, curly, weird, and blah. We aren't the best of friends even though I do my best to take great care of my hair (still no-pooing with WEN hair care...I bought a multipack to try the different scents...will blog about it soon). My hair resists holding a curl from a curling iron or roller. It takes so much time and so much hairspray to get my hair to look decent. Anytime I get my hair styled I stress that my hair won't hold the shape, and so many times I hear the stylist say "oh, I'll make it last."  Five minutes later it's flat and weird again...and my wallet is empty.

So here's the history...after moving to NYC I unfortunately had to undergo emergency surgery and was left with tubes jutting out of the right side of my neck. I couldn't get water anywhere near the tubes, so showering and washing my hair was a bit tricky. Dennis' birthday was on a Saturday and I was running errands on the UES when I walked past a salon and decided to have someone shampoo and style my hair for his party that night. I had dirty, nappy hair stuck in a fedora when I walked in and met Aaron for the first time. I walked out with the best blowout of my life and 5 hours later, still had a style full of curl and bounce. I was amazed to say the least...because it NEVER happens. 

Dennis and I at his 26th birthday party...so long ago!

As you can see from the picture above (ignore my swollen chipmunk face and bandage), I had tons of curl in my hair...unreal! I told you, he's the Michelangelo of blowouts! I had all that body and curl from a round brush and blow dryer...no curling iron or rollers. Aaron doesn't rush, he takes him time to make sure each section is perfect...and it definitely shows when you leave his salon.

The artist at work and the final results

Guess I'm not so great at keeping a secret! If you live in or near NYC, make an appointment with Aaron:

Aaron Emanuel 

307 East 77th St
New York, NY 10075
Phone: 212.422.3000
Email: aaronemanuelsalon@gmail.com

Be sure and let me know how much you love your hair when you leave! And guys...Aaron has opened a barber shop as well! Check it out: 

 Aaron Emanuel Barber Shop

245 East 77th St

New York, NY 10075

(212) 288-8381

Friend and Foe

It's your hair's worst enemy and makes you miserable during the hot summer months, but it's your skin's best friend during the winter: humidity. Scientifically speaking, humidity is the amount of water vapor in the air. Too much makes my hair look like a poodle's and too little makes my skin dry and flaky. During the fall and winter, we turn on the heat to keep it nice and toasty inside. This dry heat zaps any moisture in the air within your home and causes dry skin, chapped lips, and even nose bleeds.

During the winter in NYC it can get pretty chilly, and I feel like the wind is always blowing (doesn't seem to be the case during the summer when it's hot and there's no sign of a breeze at all). Combine the brutal weather outdoors with the dry air inside and it's the worst scenario for my skin. My skin becomes tight, itchy, flaky...it's just really gross. Sometimes, even my favorite serums, exfoliators, and moisturizers can't beat it. What's the solution? Putting more moisture in the air in my home to give my skin some relief.

Air Innovations Clean Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier. Source: qvc.com

I'm a huge fan of cool mist humidifiers for several reasons. I have one like the above next to my bed and I crank it all the way up when I lay down at night. I normally don't use it during the summer, but I can tell by my skin when it's time to start. It puts the necessary moisture back into the air inside and my skin looks refreshed, smooth, and dewy. Plus, Dennis even notices how much better he breaths at night and he doesn't wake up coughing and hacking when I have the humidifier running. Even more, it's so relaxing to have the mist delicately fall over your face while you're winding down from your day and you start drifting off to sleep. My humidifier is silent as well, so it doesn't disrupt my sleep. One full tank will last through the night if I have the the humidity control turned all the way up, and it has a ceramic filter that doesn't need replacing. Now, I have to get one for my office as well!

Who would have thought a humidifier is a skincare must-have?!

 My mom gave me this humidifier for Christmas several years ago, and it has been one of the best gifts ever. Thanks Mom :)

Lazy Pants

Everyone has one...that one pant you can't wait to put on after a long day, or wear during the weekend while you're sprawled across the couch catching up on your DVR. There isn't much that's better than slipping them on and getting cozy (except maybe a nice glass of Riesling after a long day...that's pretty good too).

Credit: jcrew.com

The best thing about my favorite lounge pant is that I can wear them out to run errands without looking like I just crawled out of bed...they're stylish and comfortable...and I'm OBSESSED! My ultimate lounge pant is the J.Crew Saturday pant.

This pant is amazing. It's basically a fancy sweat pant in a slim fit, so no bagginess or droopiness here. Think legging, but with fabric that is thicker than your basic knit legging. It'll keep you nice and toasty when there's a chill in the air and will stretch and move with you. I bought this pant last winter and fell in love, so then I bought two more in different colors. They're my favorite thing to wear during the chillier months. Dennis and I flew to Mississippi to spend Thanksgiving with my family, and I wore these almost the entire time I was home. When we go to my parents' home, it's all about unwinding, relaxing, and enjoying the peace and quiet. And spending quality time with family, of course! Thankfully these have an elastic waist too, which was perfect for the continuous feast we had all weekend.

If you plan on wearing this pant out, I'd be sure to wear a nicer top instead of a plain t-shirt. Otherwise you risk looking frumpy and not put-together. Also, I'd pair it with a flat (like the picture above) or moccasin...I wear my Sam Edelman Jones loafers with these a lot (and you're in luck because those bad boys are on SALE).

Bruno, Brooklyn, and I :) Love them!

Here's how I recently wore the Saturday pant. A lazy Sunday spent on the couch with the boys watching TV. It's my favorite thing to do on the weekends with them. Links to my tops and shoes are below.

Happy lounging!

James Perse Hoodie (mine is several months old, but his website has tons of great staples for your wardrobe)
Michael Stars Boyfriend Tank
Clark's Slippers (these aren't exactly the same, but it's the same brand)