2019 Grammys

Music. It’s helped me get through many times-happy, sad, joy, pain. It also helps me to push through things and get tasks done. It also helps me think and has helped me verbalize what I want to say. To say music is a lifeline is a major understatement.

So, needless to say, I was watching the Grammys this year. I like to see what the celebrities have in store for us. In saying that, this post is strictly about the fashion and the makeup. I’m highlighting a few of my favorites here.

My top 3 red carpet looks (in no particular order) were Jennifer Lopez, Chaka Khan and Lady Gaga. What I liked about all 3 of these looks were that they really represented each artist well and really fit the personality that comes to mind when I think of all 3 of them. The hair and makeup for each look fit very well.

The host, Alicia Keys, had some nice looks as well. She stayed with a minimal makeup look that still goes along with her ‘no-makeup’ look theme that she was really into a few years back. I personally like the idea of minimal makeup when hosting an event like The Grammys. She had several outfit changes and not a lot of time.

Overall, there were several beautiful gowns, outfits, jewelry and makeup. For an event like this, it’s so wonderful to see stars who are really comfortable in their own self-expression.

2017 Spring & Summer Beauty is here.

Blush: ItCosmetics CC + Radiance Ombre Blush in Sugar Plum, Lip color: Smashbox Be Legendary Liquid Lip in Mauve Squad (Metallic Mauve), Brush: ItCosmetics for Ulta #227

Just a quick note about my latest beauty fix: metallics and nudes. I absolutely can't get enough of this trend. 

The products that are out in regards to this trend are really pretty amazing. I wore these products together the other day and it was really beautiful. Seriously beautiful. It was a new take on being understated and nude while still garnering attention. 

While I was out, I noticed how friends would compliment my makeup. They really liked this trend and commented on how well these colors and products looked on me. When others notice, it makes me pay even more attention and made me really want to share with you. 

So, here the deal: I get how metallics can sometimes make a lady feel like they're too much. Honestly, they aren't and you will probably like them a lot more than you may realize. 

The comments were that the lip color was there but wasn't "too much." In other words, it was subtle and that is exactly what I wanted to accomplish with this look. Being that these products have pop and metallic to them, it would only be natural to think that they are flashy or bold. I'm happy to report that they are not. They do have power but they aren't overpowering. 

The lip color would like good on many skin tones. If mauve isn't what you are going for, there are other colors by Smashbox that are on-trend with the metallic-nude look. They are Brains n' Bronze (metallic bronze), Petal Metal (metallic rose gold) and of course, the one featured in the image above which is Mauve Squad (metallic mauve gold). 

Mauve Squad went well with the Sugar Plum blush. It may be a little much for some women and if so, that's OK. Skip the ombre blush and go with a more matte blush if that is your preference. Be sure to put on some mascara and you're good to go. 

These products can be found at Ulta, ulta.com, smashbox.com and itcosmetics.com. 

MAC & Mariah Carey Just In Time for Christmas

MAC has another collaboration coming in just in time for Christmas. It's a real beauty!

The Mariah Carey Collection is pretty genius. Mariah Carey is superstar in her own right. She, like many other beauty icons, has something that stands out about her. A signature look, if you will, and it's all about the bling. She's all about being glamorous without being too 'showy' with her makeup. She loves a nude look. One thing that I really admire about Mariah Carey is that she shows what I knew all along: nude does NOT have to be boring.  She tends to like for her hair and outfit to really be the focus while her makeup balances out the look. In regards to her makeup, the drama tends to come from the eyes because just like many icons before her, she loves her lashes! 

She also loves her nudes. Nudes really speaks to her authentic, artistic styling. There are a lot of nudes and softer tones in this collection along with her love for butterflies.  I remember purchasing her fragrance when it initially came out several years ago. I loved the purple butterfly bottle. The color purple and butterflies are 2 of my favorite things. She hasn't strayed away from her butterfly appreciation with this collection. Each lipstick has a butterfly embossed in the actual lipstick. Love that! 

The collection has a strong focus on the the lips and eyes while providing pops of colors for the cheeks as well. There is something for everyone. I particularly like how MAC has everything Mariah from the names of the products to the styling. Ms. Carey is all about that bling! And it shows in this collection. 

In true Mariah fashion, the collection offers lipstick and lipgloss. For those who like gloss (as she does), you won't be disappointed. 

For all of you Mariah fans, be sure to check this collection out. It will not disappoint. One thing MAC does well, is collab with other artists. Well done, MAC and Mariah! 

Emmys 2016 In Review

Well, the 2016 Emmys have come and gone. 

As an artist and lover of all things art and beauty, I'm always excited to see what looks creative teams come up with for their celebrity clients. 

There were some beautiful dresses on the carpet and lots of color. I really enjoyed seeing color and how well the tones complimented so many of the women walking the carpet. Cut outs were big too and worn tastefully well.  Kerry Washington really amazed with her tasteful cut outs showing her baby bump.

Priyanka Chopra looked amazing in her red dress! The red lip was perfect with her beautiful dress without being overdone. That takes talent and skill to pull off.  You could totally tell that she was comfortable in her gown and that it really made her feel beautiful. Her look was classically beautiful. 

Many of the ladies on the carpet chose to go with soft makeup while there were some that chose to go bold. I personally like them all. Variety is the spice of life, after all. 

In saying that, Emily Ratajkowski (pictured above) really decided to be bold with her makeup this go 'round. It is what I like to call a "butterfly cat eye." The color and design of this colorful graphic eye remind me of a butterfly. Since butterflies are all about change, we clearly see that here with the decision to go bold with makeup and more demure with the dress styling. We also see the change in the makeup itself-going from color to graphic design.  I like. Hung Vanngo is the master behind this beautiful makeup styling. Way to go! 

There is a lot to be said about mature and classic beauty as well. Kathy Bates, Angela Bassett and Lily Tomlin-just to name a few-were gorgeous as well. For me, I really liked how each lady knew exactly what to do with her makeup. It wasn't overdone. For me, this is what mature beauty is all about. 

The 2016 Emmys are now history but we do have trends that are sure to stick around for quite awhile. The styling of so many ladies was just beautiful and I enjoyed seeing each one show her beauty off in her own, unique way. Congrats to all the winners! Until next time. . .

How to Rock Blue

Blue. Indigo. Teal.  Any way you look at it, blue is in and shows no signs of slowing down for the Fall '16 season. 

There are many ways to rock the popular hue. In the photo above, I was able to go to Sephora and test a blue shade. Indigo is typically a deeper blue that flatters many skin tones. It's a great alternative to black. A more poppin' blue is great as a liner. 

A simple way to rock the trend without changing up your daily routine too much is to wear a liner (like the one pictured above or like one that Bobbi Brown cosmetics is currently carrying in its Sunset Pink Collection). The cost of the long-wear gel eyeliner in Sapphire Shimmer Ink runs you $26. If you are looking for a new liner, this will be one to try to the upcoming season. It can be found at www.bobbibrown.com. Nordstrom also carries this famous brand. Sephora typically carries Bobbi Brown Cosmetics staples, so this particular shade isn't carried by Sephora because it's part of a special, limited-time collection. 

If you are looking for a change for a little less dollar-wise, check out Sephora's waterproof eyeliner liner. The color seen in this photo is 04-Teal. The color is nice and gives the option of blue for a lot less. The pencil runs $12. This is a great option for someone wanting to venture out without spending more than $12. 

Happy Shopping!