Bronze is the new Black

Helloooooooo party people. I've been meaning to share the easiest self-tanning game changer. Apparently this tip's been around for a while, so if you've heard this one before WELL SCREW YOU for not telling me. 

All that's involved is adding a little red food coloring into your favorite self tanner. Yup. 

I promise this isn't some sick 'put Nair in your conditioner to make it grow faster'-type prank. It's not April Fool's Day and I have more faith than that in your intelligence (you're reading this blog, aren't you??). But just in case you're feeling slightly dusty from rescuing all that wine you found trapped in a bottle last night, here's the step-by-step on how it goes down in my lab:

                                                                                           + 6-8 drops of

                                                                                                      =

JK. You will actually have an amazing golden glow that's not at all orange-y. Here's a link to my bestie Wayne's makeup tutorial video if you need more deets. Glow get 'em! Her her...

XOXO,

Jeanie

Dust THIS On

En route on my flight to Paris I had no idea my in-flight row buddy would soon change my beauty life.  At first, like most flights I take, I kindly acknowledge neighboring passengers and then quickly ignore them as to avoid being stuck in fair-weathered banter.  Rare moments do I get to nap in peace or read an issue of In Style from cover to cover without interruption from a screaming toddler or a prodding husband.  Therefore this was Mama's quiet time and if that meant I was a cold bitch then so be it.  UNTIL..... a few hours into flight the flawless fresh faced lady beside me commented "You have a great yoga physique, do you practice?"  Compliments are like crack, who cares if I was wearing leggings and a sweatshirt that said Namaste?  She was just so in tune with ME so obviously I became a fan of her right then and had to dive into conversation.  Within moments i found out that this lovely lady was.... wait for it wait for it......

Dr. Carol Trakimas!  Who the hell is that you may ask?  Well she is an esteemed dermatologist specializing in aesthetic dermatology in Raleigh, North Carolina, who was also recently featured in the latest issue of New Beauty magazine.  What the heck is New Beauty you might be asking?  Well get a hold of an issue of this amaze-balls high-end beauty magazine.  It's like the Fountain of Youth disguised in articles and ads on anti-aging, beauty tips, health advice, skincare and med-spa suggestions.  She might have regretted admitting her identity because now her silent seat mate was trying to get skin care consult off the clock.  After graciously answering a slew of "What's the best tip for melasma?"  "What sunscreen is really the best"  "What's your anti-aging secret?  "What do you think this bump right here is?"  she not only gave me some beauty insights but she also gave me this beauty/skincare product right out of her luggage.  

This could be you.

Colorscience Sunforgettable Mineral Sunscreen SPF powder stick is the new "it" product in my beauty bag.  Dr. Trakimas is a spokesperson for the company and, like a drug pusher, provided that first bit of powder free so that now I'm hooked and a Colorscience beauty junky.  Apparently I'm late to the Colorscience party cuz WCW co-blogger has already been using this and keeping it a secret from me, (I think her goal is for me to age faster than her).  Its easy applicator is low key, easy to carry and super easy to use at any time of the day.  This powder dusted on can protect your skin from the sun with an SPF of 50!  I usually put my SPF on every morning under my makeup and then apply a foundation that usually has SPF in it as well. Do you know how long that SPF actually lasts in its potency???  At most 2 hours!  That is NOT enough protection for my mug. And who wants to keep re-applying more layers of sunscreen or foundation??   Dusting a thin veil of Colorscience Sunforgettable midday not only gives me the sun protection I need but it also touches up my makeup by eliminating any shine I might have.  Double SCORE.  I often go for a run at the end of the work day and dusting this on has prevented my skin from feeling heavy and clogged.  On those rare chill weekend days, I apply this over my sunscreen as my overall foundation coverage and throw it in my bag and go.  Truly an awesome product for the beauty lover and the beauty minimalist.  

Summer is coming and so are those premature lines! Get on the Colorscience Sunforgettable bandwagon and thank me later!  

-Tuyen

Girl Fight!!! Anastasia vs. Kat Von D.

Now that i've got your attention with hopes of some kinda hair pulling, titty twisting bitch fight gossip, lets talk about what really is on the agenda: Who's contour palette is better?  Kat Von D's Shade & Light Powder Palette or Anastasia's Cream Contour Palette?

Both these artist's makeup lines have blown up in the past 5 years .  Anastasia of Beverly Hills which started as a brow shaping and brow salon business has now expanded to a  phenomenal product line that has me cooing and weeping in despair that i can't afford it all, WHYYYYYYYY?!?!?!.  Kat Von D, originally a famed burlesque dancer and master of the nipple tassles collaborated with Sephora to launch her interpretation of the best red lipstick shades. Fast forward a few years and now her beauty line tackles it ALL and has some of the boldest colors and beauty options.  It really is hard to put the two up against each-other. So maybe rather than fueling a potential cat fight since we ladies deal with enough drama as is,  I'll play nice and not make this a discussion on who or what is better. Let's just chat about my likes and dislikes between Kat Von D's Powder and Anastasia's Cream contour.  

Kat Von D's Shade and Light Contour Powder Palette

My face has yet to lose its baby fat circa childhood so as a chipmunk cheeked makeup enthusiast, contouring is a neccessity. I had used cheaper palettes and substituted numerous powders and shadows to mimic what is now offered in just this one palette. Moonlighting as a makeup artist, contouring has been a huge demand these last few years and the convenience factor with the versatility of the shades offered by Kat Von D upped my beauty game in my makeup kit.  The palette has 3 lighter shades that assist with highlighting and strobing and 3 darker shades that can contour and sculpt.  

Hotel selfie alert!!  I used the Kat Von D palette on top of my foundation and concealer for this look and applied Mac's shimmer blush Peachy Keen to the apples of my cheeks.  PROS:  All powders are well pigmented and offer decent coverage on top of your foundation and concealer. Don't worry you don't have to be a makeup artist to master this palette. The colors are easily blendable and super user friendly.  This definitely gives a more matte finish and provides a more flawless high coverage look.  Although the powders are not loose powders you can essentially create the "baking effect" when applying one of the lighter shades over your concealer in your under eye area and letting it set.  I love the multiple darker tones to blend and create more of a bridge to my nose and to carve out my cheek bones for a heroin chic emaciated look.  CONS: The powders can often sit at the surface of the skin if not buffed in correctly and accentuate lines. Also, if not blended well the darker tones can get a ruddy look or just end up making you look more Walking Dead rather than Kate Moss. 

Anastasia of Beverly Hills Cream Contour Palette

I'd been using my Ben Nye Foundation palette as a contour palette in my makeup kit, but found that it is just a bit overkill for everyday makeup. The release of the Anastasia Cream Contour Palette had me racing to get my beauty fix.  Like most palettes it comes in multiple shades but for starters i purchased the Medium palette because it seemed the most versatile for my kit.  The palette consists of a concealer like skin tone color, a yellow toned color corrector for dark shadows and brightening, an orange tone color for for correcting skin discoloration and three sculpting shades in a bronzing tone and two other deep shading tones.  

Come hither honey, contour really gets me going! Don't mind my hormonal eyebrow blemish, but I used basically all the same products in this selfie as the previous except with the Anastasia Cream Contour Palette and a translucent setting powder instead. PROS: This product blends seamlessly and flawlessly for a dewy natural contour.  Most often we think cream products will appear heavier and less natural but this is quite the contrary.  The finish has a glow that makes your skin continue to look like skin just a sculpted, sexier version of your skin. Also, the orange color corrector is amazing for those of you who have any dark spots or melasma-like skin discoloration.  It cancels the grayness and blends your skin to one neutral tone. CONS: This is definitely a product for a more intermediate makeup officianado.  The blending needs a little more technique and a gentle touch that might not be for everyone.  Also, because it is a creamier product if you suffer from oiliness prepare to carry a blotting powder or oil blotting papers with you. On a warmer day i looked in the mirror to find my eyeliner had migrated and i went from looking like a youthful fresh face to looking like i was executing a walk of shame at 3 in the afternoon.  

There you have it folks. Get your contour on and let me know how it goes!

-Tuyen

Blonde Ambition

I've gone through some interesting hair color phases.  My early college years I did everything to look like Jlo.  Hoop earrings, Frankie B jeans, studded belts, attempts to be a fly girl, and of course mimicking her bronzed highlighted tawny hair.  Working for Mac I then went through the "my hair must look like an eyeshadow color palette" which meant bright colored "hair blocking" with ruby red, blonde, bronze and sometimes plum streaks.  But alas, when college ended so did the monthly allowance from my parents and my part-time cocktailing job was funding EVERYTHING including my hair. In my attempts to cut costs I decided to simplify and go back to my roots....literally.  Having my dark hair back I thought I'd channel my inner Penelope Cruz and maybe appear more enigmatic, with more substance, or maybe just appear more in need of a sandwich.  In due time the itch for colored hair returned.  I eased my way into colored hair again with a low maintenance light brown ombre with hints of bronze highlights, but that was like that first puff of weed, just a gateway fix till I needed to go lighter... and lighter.....

The good, the bad, and the wtf??:  My hair evolution

The problem with brunettes going blonde is the transition has to be gradual and can take FOREVER.   I have yet to reach my desired hue of blonde.   As most brunettes I'm sure can relate,  when I keep adding lighter highlights to my ombre I'm also battling the almost inevitable orangey emergence that happens in the last two weeks before I go in for my touch up.  Bless his clueless little heart the hubby complimented me on my new "brassy do" and I almost choked on his choice of words "BRASSY" bleh. 

Hair Goals- Always obsessing over these two

My hair dresser of 15 years and my transformation consultant, Paris, suggested I try a blue shampoo.  While looking like a "Sun-In" and lemon juice tangerine-hued throwback  I scrambled and searched till i found the highly reviewed Joico Color Balance Blue Shampoo and Conditioner.  This is a brunette girl's savior for those cool blonde highlights we've been dying for that you see above on the lovely Jamie Chung and Hair Goddess Khloe K. The directions: use 2-3 times a week (which is honestly how I often I wash my hair) where the shampoo you let sit for 2-3 minutes before rinsing and the conditioner 3-5 minutes before rinsing.  The result after a few uses is less brass, more blonde and a little bit more time before I have to race back to see Paris to tone and touch up my mane.  Unfortunately these don't come in Costco value size, however you can often find the shampoo/conditioner set on Amazon for $35 dollars or Ulta on deal.  

If my inspi-hair goals idol Jamie Chung is using it than it must be good!! I'm almost done with my first round of bottles and I'm loving the results.  I'll post some before and afters once i get through this first set! PEACE OUT

-Tuyen

What's in Your Palette?

As I recover from the most overrated holiday known to January, I thought that instead of dwelling on negatives (like '1,017 Reasons NYE Can SUCK IT') I would chuck a little product review your way.

I recently had a Sephora melt-down and bought all the things.  I wanted to get the chance to really use the products before potentially wasting everyone's time even mentioning them here, but one purchase has been a mucho pleasant surprise: the Smashbox #SHAPEMATTERS Palette. 

Here are the reasons I am all over this palette these days:

1. The contour palette- the palette within the palette.  First let me preface this by saying I stumbled upon this little box of wonders while looking for a contour only palette, so bodacious contour offerings were priority numero uno. The Sephora sales chick who was stalking me despite my attempts to shake her by avoiding eye contact at all costs and a little crop dusting, finally broke down my walls by talking shit about a palette I was eyeballing (and by eyeballing I mean rubbing swatches all over every spare patch of exposed skin on my body). She kept pushing this Smashbox version on me and I assumed it was because it cost a zillion dollars. Which SHOULD be assumed considering everything that is included, but we'll get there. The contour 'zone' of this palette includes four simple-to-use colors: an ashy shade for contouring, a bronzer, a matte highlighter, and a 'glowy' highlighter. They are SUPER easy to use, layer-able, nicely pigmented, and I love them.

2. In addition to the contour products, there are NINE eyeshadows and legit ALL of them are amazing colors. I have actually used every single one of them which is out of character for me. I typically use the same select few in my palettes and then eventually feel bad for the short-bus colors that have gone so obviously unused that I give them a whirl and then regret it every time I look at my mug in the mirror that day. The shades in this palette work for a natural to dramatic look and I love them.

3. But oh wait, there's more. Yup, there are two eyebrow powders and a wax. Now these are my least favorite of the palette but by least favorite I mean I love them just a fraction less than the others and the ONLY reason is that the shades are a tad lighter than the Anastasia Brow Powder Duo that I'm obsessed with. And I haven't quite figured out the wax, but let's be real, I'm probably doing it wrong. 

4. It comes with a pretty decent brush.  I typically hoard these under my bathroom sink because even though the brushes accompanying palettes by some apparent mandate have to suck (Urban Decay Naked Palette, not to put you on blast but...) I have a hard time chucking them. This brush isn't earth shattering (oh, but I actually just bought one that is. ok next post.), but I've definitely used it a bunch.

5. OK here's the real kicker- it's only $55!!!!!!!!!!!  Probably not a complete surprise because if you're like me the FIRST thing you did while reading this post was scope out was the price, you spoilar-alert psycho you, but still, I need to say it: "ALL THIS CAN BE YOURS FOR ONE EASY PAYMENT OF $55" (not a zillion).  So. Totally. Worth. It. I recently went to San Fran for a weekend and after accepting United Airlines' dare to only pack a carry-on (or rather spending that $50 on booze) I was looking to trim my arsenal every way possible. I packed this palette along with some foundation, mascara, eye-liner, and lip-gloss and was able to happily live off those rations.  If that isn't an endorsement, I don't know what is. 

Last thing- in a rabid organizing frenzy I came up with a new method of palette storage.  All it requires is an old mail sorter your office won't miss and some gold spray paint.

Stay classy!

~Jeanie

Truly, truly, truly OUTRAGEOUS Holiday Lips!

I might be revealing my age by saying this but Jem and the Holograms were my childhood obsession.  When the movie came out this year it starred live actors portraying the cartoon but flopped before I could throw on my star earrings and pink wig. My disappointment was quickly diverted when I realized I could watch it sooner in the privacy of my own home annnnnnnd that Sephora released a liquid lipstick set paying homage to Jem and the Holograms!

Yes the packaging looks like this was made for tweens but trust me this gift set is the best thing EVER!

I know the Christmas is here in one day and New Years is around the corner but bold lips remain on my calendar until February comes to a close. Liquid lipsticks full coverage make a bold lip perfection. Kat Von D and Anastasia Beverly Hills make some of the most coveted liquid lipsticks but unfortunately they never do a gift set. For 20-25 dollars a pop it's tough to justify a full size, blue toned magenta statement lip that I may wear three times out of the year. Thus the 5 color Sephora homage to Jem and the Holograms gift set including 4 intense liquid lipstick colors and a sparkly pink gloss is exactly what this beauty junky was looking for.

My selfie game is on fleek.

Let's talk the colors.  In above image from right to left: the first tube is actually a soft shimmery pale pink gloss. This gloss is surprisingly light in texture and great on top of the liquid lipsticks or on its own. Next we are brought to the first liquid lipstick which is a mauve/rose neutral color resembling the color we have been seeing on the likes of Kylie Jenner (pictured right) and Ariana Grande. Next color is an obnoxiously hot Barbie pink.  Then we have a rich burgundy that has a deep beet tone.  The last liquid lipstick is a true aubergine purple. So yes, these colors on their own can appear overwhelmingly loud but the great thing about this set is the colors are easily blended and fabulous mixed.  I've been mixing two colors at a time to achieve the perfect deep plum or a rich fuschia lip color.  To top it off they are extremely long wearing and not drying to the lips.  Sephora still carries this online for $25!!!! A lip puckering steal you can find here!! I apologize for the self-indulgent selfie blast you are about to receive.  But check out some of the great Jem tribute, holiday inspired, seasonal fun colors i've concocted:

I know, what was I thinking going head to head with Kylie Jenner in a selfie contest?  Anyhoo, get this limited edition set while you can. Or before all the thirty-something Jem fanatics catch wind. I'm sure a post Xmas sale will be on the horizon.....

-Tuyen

Keep it Fresh

I'm talking about your skin ladies.  It finally happened, the seasons did shift. My glow is gone, my color is a sallow gray and no that is not snow falling, it's my ashy skin drifting off my face.  The colder weather with less sun and more use of heaters completely changes the quality and condition of my skin.  Have you seen The Little Mermaid?  Remember when Ursula would turn the mermaids into those shriveled little gray ocean worms?  It's kinda like that.  Ok, maybe that is a terrible analogy, but my point is the shift of the weather means glowing, moist (yeah I said the word), fresh, summer skin is in hibernation.  UNTIL NOW, here are a few of my go-to products that bring me back to life and make me feel like i can be "part of your world!" (ha! like how I brought that back????)

Alba Hawaiian Facial Papaya Enzyme Mask

As much as I would love to afford the SK-11 Facial Treatment Masks ($138 for 10 masks!!)  my big ol' face can't justify that luxury.  You might wonder "How can you drop a month's mortgage on a Chanel and not $138 on your face?" Well, the answers are: my priorities are all out of whack and I found the Alba Papaya Enzyme Mask. This product is the skin steal of the century.  This drug store mask in most places costs less than $10!! You do the math on that huge savings. I apply this mask 2-3 times a week for 5-10 minutes and my pores feel like they are breathing again.  It's made with all natural ingredients and comes in a gel texture that you apply by rubbing a quarter sized amount over your face and avoiding your eyes.  Don't mind the tingle and mild burn; that means it's working.   I get a high from imagining all the dead skin cells burning off my face.  I sometimes like going an extra step by removing the mask with a Clarisonic once over before rinsing. The result is a visibly fresher face with less flakiness and dullness.  My clueless husband has even commented post exfoliation that i was looking brighter and tighter. Who knows what he might have been referencing but trust me this product WORKS. 

Neocutis Lumiere Bio-Restorative Eye Cream 

In the warmer months I am not diligent with eye cream.  Because I'm significantly oilier in the summer months, adding eye cream to my regiment ends up being just moisture over kill and I end up getting clogged pores in the under eye area.  My daily moisturizer and serum usually suffices my skin's replenishment needs, but during these colder months it's a totally different story.  It probably doesn't help that holiday parties have me on a Champagne and Grand Marnier diet or the fact that despite partying hard I still got a toddler alarm clock at 7am.  The Neocutis Eye Cream is the pick me up my eyes need.  It's light enough that it can layer on top of your moisturizer and doesn't feel heavy or clogging. It also absorbs nicely and adds a soft glow.  I use this mainly before bed or the occasional rough haggard mornings that need a little more love. I usually buy it here where there are often coupon codes so i can get it for a small bargain. SCORE 

Hydroquinone 6%/Retinol Treatment

Most dermatologist-prescribed treatments come with the caveat "Stay out of the sun!!!"  Thus the winter months are a perfect time for me to get disciplined and start a skin boot camp.  I'm predisposed to melasma aka: skin discoloration that can appear in the form of cute freckles or in the form of a 5'oclock shadow. NOT CUTE. Most skincare companies market products boasting "lightening" and "brightening" but that don't mean diddily squat if it doesn't have these two ingredients: Hydroquinone and Kojic Acid.  Hydroquinone is the Grand Puba of skin lightening and if you are trying to rid age spots, or hormonal skin shading with organic oils from your local Whole Foods you're in for a loonnnnnngggg ride till results. The most effective hydroquinone treatments are prescribed through the ol' skin doctor.  My little skin cream cocktail lasts three months and also includes a mix of Kojic Acid and Retin A for maximum results.  As always no matter the weather wear your SPF and stay out of the sun!

So that's my little winter skin refresh. What are your favorite skincare must haves?

-Tuyen

Topic Cassoulet

So given that I've been sick and my feverish brain is unable to concoct a concise sentence, let alone a bunch of them strung together to create a mediocre-at-best blog post, I figure now is a great time to roll out... Topic Cassoulet. A random mishmosh of thoughts and observations, kinda like Chat Stew, but chic-er.

1. Vera Bradley

Ok, so not to hate, but the only contact I have with V. Bradley is when I shop for my mother. Back when granny was still alive, I could always count on a VB box to bring a twinkle to her eye that only Chanel can elicit from my bourjois peepers. But something weird is happening over there at the Bradley bunker. I first noticed it when I was in search of my new gym bag and then again when Xmas shopping for Salami (an unfortunate nickname my mom's stuck with)... they have launched, how shall I describe them..., CUTE bags!? I'm currently formulating my opinion, but I'm excited to see these leather lookers make the blog rounds as I'm sure some 'sponsored posts' are on the horizon for our more popular colleagues (one day....). 

2. Dove Daily Moisture 'Poo and 'Dish

This is another one of those 'Ante Up vs Pinch Your Pennies' guys, but I'm not ready to do another designated save/splurge post so in the meantime I'd just like to sing the praises of Dove haircare. Ok Wen die-hards, calm yourselves... I know, detergent, stripping, and SUDSING oh my! But I fell in love with these products back in college when my freshman RA was suddenly having noticeably good hair days back-to-back. She did the Christian thing and shared what was behind those shiny, bouncy locks and I immediately bribed an upper-classman to drive me off campus (a PLNU thing) to the nearest Target.  Four years and 2,920 days later, I still love Dove's Daily Moisture shampoo and conditioner and have yet to find a high-end name that holds a candle (which, on another tangent, why do I even TRY???).

3. Emergen-C

I love it, Tropical is the best flavor, and that is all.

4. MAC Electric Cool Eye Shadow in Superwatt

I LOVEEEEE THIS EYESHADOW!!!!  It's super-pigmented so just a dab will do ya, but the finish is perfectly metallic/glossy not sparkly/cakey. I probably wear this every day in some capacity, whether it's alone, as a base, or my personal fave- dabbed just on the center of the eyelid over my finished makeup look. I get a million compliments when I wear this stuff and should probably just buy some MAC stock at this point.

That's all for now! Got a new Sephora haul I'll have to share/dish on so stay tuned for that!!

~Jeanie

What do You Want for Christmas, Little Girl?

Prepare yourselves for a greedy lil post- after reading we'll all rendezvous at the nearest angel tree for an exorcism but in the meantime I want to talk about The Perfect Christmas List. I don't know about you, but unless I want my S.O. guessing what size cargo pants I wear and my mother debating whether to splurge on the bedazzled 7s or Ed Hardy tee, the list is a necessary evil.

While it could be easy to go crazy and include every little thing your heart desires, restraint is muy importante for a couple reasons. One, like Tuyen has mentioned before, we need to shield our boos' delicate sensibilities from the price tags that accompany many of the objects of our desire. This is NOT where you request your Chloe Drew bag (Tuyen) or vintage Chanel watch (me). Not only will you be disappointed Christmas morning, you will be judged for even considering a gift with that price tag appropriate and find yourself permanently on 'spend watch' for 2016. No, the key is to mix a few mid-price point gifts with some affordable options.  This is where you list the things you DON'T buy because you're preoccupied with your 'next big splurge' strategy.

Here's are the items that made this year's list cut that might inspire a few of you who don't yet have any motivation to stay off the naughty list for 23 more days:

1. Eva LUXe Tote | GymTote

I've been itching for a designated gym bag for a while now. As chic as my freebie Rock'n'Roll Marathon sling bags are to tote my workout crap around, it's time for an upgrade. In my hunt for the perfect carryall, I stumbled across a blog boasting 'The Gym Bag that Looks Like a Birkin,' clicked the link, and it was game over. Santa baby, hurry down my chimney so I can hurry to SparkCycle in style.

2. Bobeau One-Button Cardigan (on sale now!!)

Guys. I currently have three of these sweaters in my closet and yes, I want a fourth. If you haven't had the pleasure of wearing one of these babies you are missing out. On the outside they appear to be a perfectly draped layering sweater but on the inside they are a fleece-lined heaven that make your rattiest, comfiest sweatshirt jealous. I live in these once the temp dips, they pair perfect with work duds, shorts, jeans, and if you see me at the airport it's a sure bet I'm rocking one of these bad boys.  

3. David Lerner Leggings

I might be late (or early) to the party on these but it doesn't really matter because I have found the legging MASTER in David Lerner. He is my second skin spirit animal and just gets me and my legging-obsessed ways. He has found ways to make the basic black legging new again (hi python print, xoxo) and while you could pay full retail for a pair (or two) and it wouldn't be a bad investment in my book, there are PLENTY of sales happening right now. Tis the season to stock up- Saks Off 5th is all over my radar.

4. Bathing Suit

This suit is CA by Vitamin A's Jinx Rebel Wrap... a FEAT to find (out of season) but other reco's below

Bathing suits are just annoying to buy.  They are so expensive for such a small amount of material and you only get to wear them for a small window and many times in front of an audience that doesn't appreciate the fashion moment you're having. Be that so, there's still something about a hot 'lil suit that fits just right and Revolve is just killing it 24/7 with their swimwear inventory. It's hard to narrow it down to some favorites, but this, this, and this guy have me wiping drool off my chin and getting all dreamy thinking of that Caribbean cruise the hubs and I have coming up next month...

5. Beauty Goods

Holiday pallets and gift sets are ALWAYS something I get excited about. Can I justify purchasing another pallet or gloss set? I probably could, but the rationale wouldn't be pretty. Receiving one from a loved one on the other hand is a loophole and something I will actually play with... reminiscent of my Baby Uh Oh and Puppy Surprise holidays.

Ho ho hope that was helpful/informative/entertaining on some level! What's on your xmas list??

~Jeanie

Nailed It

Getting my nails did is something I take very seriously. I'm totally that chick that Pins mani inspos and then whips out my phone and scrolls through the gallery with whichever poor, unfortunate Nail Lounge tech was assigned to my high-maintenance ass that day.

During the holidays, glitter (<3 <3 <3) and fun patterns are not only appropriate, but celebrated, and I capitalize on that shit. 

Here are some manicures currently tacked to my dream board. The looks that might be too bold for some make a perfect party nail when paired with a complimentary shade on your other digits.

Happy hollydaze!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

~Jeanie

You Can't Take it With You... Oh Wait, Yes You Can

Ok so part of being a WCW is being on your 'A' game basically all the time. And part of being on your game is LOOKING like you're on your game. A pretty major part. Basically don't leave the house if you're not up to status.  Listen, I get it. Some days we leave the house in the wee hours and don't return until the sun has long since kicked rocks.  Others, we're in a mad dash and ain't nobody got TIME for that. But just remember that the days we don't put forth the effort also happen to be the days we run into our ex. Or college frenemy. Or both at the same time because they're now married.

"Oh, um, hey guys... I didn't expect to run into you today"

Whether it's about all about the touch-ups or a quickie in the office bathroom (with the mirror, fixing your face) you've gotta have a beauty arsenal "to-go" bag that can be tossed into your tote, gym bag, diaper bag (Tuyennnnnn) that's stocked with dependable multi tasking products.

Of course I'll throw in my daily lip color in my bag, maybe an eye-shadow pallet if I'm going straight post-office to a HH or soiree, but here is a list of products that are always stashed and on-hand...

The 'to-go' bag OG 

1. MAC Studio Careblend Pressed Powder

This powder is awesome for a midday refresh.  It re-blends any foundation applied earlier, absorbs shine, and minimizes pores. I've tried quite a few other powders on the market, but always end up returning to this guy and EVERY WCW needs a pressed powder in their to-go.

2. NYX HD Concealer

This cult fave is homecoming queen for a reason- it blends well, the shades are spot-on, the application is easy, and at $5 bucks a pop you can buy a few and stash them everywhere. This concealer works it's HD magic all over town- it's under-eye circle camo, blemish coverage, or a little highlighting yin to your contouring yang. 

3. Hoola Matte Bronzer by Benefit

When you're short on time and having to make beauty product cuts, bronzer should NOT be one of them. I would argue that no other product will make as big of a difference.  When your face is golden bronze, you automatically look more healthy and rested, and imperfections fade away.  Something about this particular shade seems to be universally flattering and the applicator brush that comes with is perfectly angled for some cheek contour action. The fact that there's a built-in mirror makes it a must-have to-go product from heaven.

4. katherine cosmetics Everyday Eye Liner in Bonanza Black 

Ok, so this brand is a bit obscure but I stumbled upon it at Cos Bar (<3) in La Jolla and now can't imagine my life without it.  This pencil is self-sharpening and waterproof- making it perfect for waterlining and staying put all day. On TOP of all that, there is a built-on smudgerooney brush which has majorly come in handy when I'm attempting a cat-eye in my rearview mirror... not a scenario made for precision, but a little buff with the brush blends it all together and creates the perfect sexy, smoked-out, just-got-banged look.

5. Bare Escentuals Full Flawless Face Brush

I like me a big fat brush that I can use when I want to stipple in my MAC powder or sweep my bronzer all over my mug. I'll even pinch the bristles together and use it to contour with my Hoola. I basically use this guy with everything and in everything, no rhyme or reason.  Whore.

6. NARS Lip Laquer in Chelsea Girl

UGHHHHHHH I freaking love this stuff.  So, I know I just finished singing my undying love and devotion to YSL but this stuff is kinda equally amazing but in a different sorta way. One reason I love it in my to-go bag is because of it's moisture factor. Not only is the color nudey sex-kitten purrfection, it nixes any need for lipbalm. This is especially appreciated during the winter months when flakey chapped lips and lipstick are at war and Pinterest is infiltrated with 'homemade lip exfoliation' searches. Just a shmear of this stuff and lips look hot and feel soft all night long.

7. blotterazzi by beautyblender 

Hi, my name is Jeanie and I have oily skin.  Around 11am my co-workers do make-up touch-ups in their reflections on my forehead.  Typically I reach for blotting papers (these are my fave) but I recently made a purchase and would like to introduce my newest to-go baby.  The jury is still out on this grease-nixing product, however I've read some reviews and found some helpful usage hints: 1) press and HOLD the sponge in the oily area so it has time to absorb and 2) wash the sponges prior to use (it comes with a little cleanser). I like the product but want to LOVE it because these trump my trusty blotting papers in so many ways. They are shaped in a way that you can get in that oil absorbing action in all the contours of your face (and don't have those 'unused areas' left over on your blotting paper), they are reusable (reduce, reuse, recycle- check), they come in a cute case, and are wayyyy more chic to use in public than a blotting sheet (like, gross- please don't judge how transparent this sheet is).  I think I'm falling, but stay tuned. 

8. (Pureology) Teasing Comb

I can't find this exact comb online, but here's an alternative I've heard GREAT things about and is on my shopping list.  I know this isn't a beauty product per se, but what good is a flawless face with a ratchet coif?  Keeping in the multi-purpose theme, this comb provide volume, evens strands, and the pointy tip makes it easy to part hair and separate for a quick half up-do.

So there you have it folks!  Please leave a comment if you have a ride-or-die go-bag item that I'm missing out on!!

Organize all the Things

Call me OCD with a side of anal, but I can't STAND having shit unorganized. I like knowing where everything is and being able to easily find it. Of course this m.o. follows me around and makes me do crazy things like turning the task of organizing my make-up into a full blown project... And then writing a blog post about it. 

I actually look forward to doing my make-up. I like the girliness factor and spending a few minutes attempting artistic genius. I love seeing all the different colors and putting a look together. But nothing bugs more than having to dig around a makeup bag crammed with products. Not only is it inefficient, but I forget about products I have. Like, "Oh YEAHHHHH I forgot I bought that coral Calypso Bobbi Brown lipstick... that actually would have been supes cute with my OOTD. Too bad I already did my eyes all dramatic and would look like a total drag queen (and not in the good way) if I threw this into the mix." Eff that. Disorganization is creativity's murderer.

Has anyone out there seen the makeup organization sitch happening over at the Kardashians??? I'm not even embarrassed to talk about it.  Ughhhhhhhhhhhhh it's THAT good.

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I actually tried to steal their set-up but would you know the cost of clear, acrylic make-up drawers is actually steep? Apparently I can spend way too much moolah on my make-up AND on it's organization! Anyways, challenge accepted. 

The Container Store is my crack. I go through phases where I will legit go there 4 days in a row. Once I start, I have to organize ALL THE THINGS.

Of course they have cosmetic organizers, but the REAL deal steal is their shoe drawers.  At a fraction of the cost, these can be stacked AND come with little dividers that work perfectly to compartmentalize your products. Whodathunkit. I personally have three drawers- one for eye-makeup, one for face, and another for lips- and i am totally satisfied. 

I leave you with the following image I stumbled upon after searching "DIY projects":

~Jeanie

Ante Up or Pinch your Pennies

Today I thought I'd share some beauty products in my arsenal that are worth the splurge and others that are shockingly chic considering their low price point.  Without further ado, I bring you WestCoastWive's first edition of...

 BINGE OR BARGAIN

Binge #1: Yves Saint Laurent ROUGE VOLUPTÉ Silky Sensual Radiant Lipstick

For me, this is the end-all-be-all of lipsticks. Not only is the packaging amazeballs, the shade is everything. There's a reason this is frequently sold out- it is the perfect nude with just enough pink and when layered plays well with just about every other lip color out there.

Bargain #1: NYC Smooth Skin Bronzing Face Powder

I happened upon this bronzer after reading an article on the best drug store beauty products and was pleasantly surprised. At just $3 bucks a pop I wasn't expecting much, but it's got just enough pigment, isn't orangey (or shimmery), and impressive staying power.

Binge #2: Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion

If I am wearing eye shadow, you can bet your bottom dollar this bad boy is underneath it all. I tend to be on the oily side and apparently my eyelids are in on that fun. Not only does this primer keep everything in place and crease free allllllll day, it also makes bargain eyeshadows much more doable.

Bargain #2: Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Moist Deep Conditioning Treatment

Even though this hair mask incorporates the abominable 'm' word in it's name, I am able to pretend not to notice considering just three minutes of this $3 elixir smooths frayed ends, amps shine, and leaves my strands silky soft.

Binge #3: tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Airbrush Foundation

I was turned on to this foundation by my hometown bestie (shout out Pinky Chop Chop, hey girl heyyyyy!!! xoxo). I had been dealing with a major breakout sitch and was in a cycle of "I need to cover up this shit but my cover up is giving me more shit to cover up" and this has been a god-send. It provides coverage, but isn't heavy or clog pores. It can be layered to build coverage and used with a concealer brush to target specific areas that might need a bit more camouflaging. I've been using this brush with it lately and think these two are a match made in heaven. I HEART TARTE.

Bargain #3: Rubbing Alcohol

Alcohol. Not the drinking kind. For me at least (no judgement). Did you know this is THE best blemish fighter I've discovered to date?? Yes, it's harsh. Which is why a dab will do ya and it WORKS. Just soak a cotton ball and lightly dab that jerk once in the AM and again in the PM and watch it dry up and disappear in record speed. 

Binge #4: DryBar Triple Sec 3-in-1

I have tried a gazillion dry shampoos (Big Sexy Hair, Batiste, Tresemme, Caviar... just to name a few) but had yet to find the 'one' until my last visit to Drybar and an impulse purchase. Dry shampoos typically leave my hair... icky. The only way I can think to describe the overly-dry, dull, and sticky sensation that I loathe. Triple Sec is the anti-icky. It's light, provides just enough hold, and smells ermerzing.

Bargain #4: Wet n Wild MegaLast Lip Color in Pinkerbell

I can honestly say I never thought I'd be singing the praises of my pre-teen baby-sitting income affordable go-to, but I tried this shade after hearing about it as a hack for MAC's Viva Glam Nicki and have never looked back. I'm proudly packin' this crappy plastic tube because the shade is uber hot and universally flattering.

Binge #5: Bobbi Brow Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Black Ink

This product possesses all the qualities I could ever desire in an eye-liner: it glides on smoothly but is still easy to apply, it is smudgeable but doesn't budge once set, and it's SUPER water-proof, as in it can be used on your waterline without pooling in the corner of your eyes (aka that gross mascara goop, remember the Friends episode??? bleck.).

Bargain #5: Yes To Grapefruit Daily Facial Scrub

I loooooove this face wash. It's got just the right amount of grit to leave your face feeling scrubbed but not scraped off, it's got a bit of lather so you can spend some time working it in, and it smells refreshing, leaves skin glowing, and is made with healthy, skin-nourishing ingredients.

Happy shopping. 

~Jeanie

Halloween Haute

It's that time of the year again where I dig through dusty high school dance recital gear and that hidden box of old raunchy ex-boyfriend lingerie where crotchless panties and torn fishnets come in all colors (Hubby, if you're reading this, I've only been with one other person, he was a college sweetheart and these clothes were more for dress up than dress off). Yes, it is HALLOWEEN season! My dilemma with Halloween is the high cost of dressing up when dressing in so little.  I surely don't want to dig too deep into my Chanel fund for a one night only shit show.  Thus I rely on these few things: Creativity, Joanns Fabrics, the back of my closet I haven't cleaned out and MAKEUP!!  

Here are some simple makeup and easy costume ideas to make your Halloween sexy and maybe a little spooky. I promise I won't have what happened to Lindsay Lohan on Mean Girls happen to you.

Geisha

Things you'll need- A robe or kimono in a satin or oriental print. A sexy pair of strappy stilettos. A topknot in your hair with chopsticks.. 

Makeup:

• Ben Nye's Super White Face Powder $6 or Ben Nye Clown White Foundation $9- both are reasonably priced professional makeup products that are easy to apply.  The cream makeup will look like our girl here on the left where the powder applied over your own foundation will have a look similar to the girl on the right.  
• A smoky eye shadow combo.  I highly suggest utilizing Mac's Blacktrack fluidline as an allover lid base with Mac's Carbon eyeshadow to set it on top.  
• A bright matte red lip color.  I personally like Lorac Lipstick in Explore.
• For the look on Geisha girl on the right I highly recommend NYX Extreme Apricot for the pop of red in her eyeshadow. It's a vibrant matte red and it's only $4.50!

Kylie Jenner

Things you'll need- A long haired blue wig, a two piece nude or low cut white dress and a selfie stick.

Makeup- The look is winged eyeliner, with neutral eyeshadow, lots of fake lashes with a lot of mascara, deep contouring of the cheeks and nose, and a LOT of emphasis on the lipliner.  For the contour emphasize the look by strobing with a lighter loose powder below the eyes and cheek bones. And for the exaggerated pout start at the cupids bow of your lips to extend out with a deep colored lipliner like Chestnut from Mac.  Once you get that duck faced outline, blend in to finish the look. 

Kitty Kat

Things you'll need- Love this simple but sexy costume.  Cat ears and a black outfit that makes you purr. Perhaps fishnets and garters? leather leggings? or maybe if you read Jeanie's previous blog some over the knee Highland Hack's?

Makeup:

• Winged cat eye, whiskers and nose- Makeup Forever liquid liner pen gives great precision.
• Lips-NYX no sharpen black pencil as liner and Mac's Viva Glam 1 red for lip color.  

Anastasia Steel, Fifty Shades of Grey

Things you'll need:  This hot number can most likely be dug up in your own freak nasty arsenal.  You might even get your significant other to join in as your Christian Grey but make sure you have a pair of handcuffs! Perhaps wear a black sheer robe, or a silk slip nighty, or maybe just wear a sheet pinned around you.  Then add a strip of black lace over your eyes like a blind fold. ...

Makeup- To give that "I've just been ahem...." look wear a dewy foundation and perhaps add some shine to the cheek bones and bridge of nose with a shine like Benefit's High Beam.  For the lips a soft subtle pink with a thick rich gloss like Mac's Oyster Girl Lipglass

Joan Crawford, Mommy Dearest

Things you'll need: I stole this idea from my dear friend and blog follower "I'm not a Kors, not quite a Birkin." She posted this amazing selfie and it is the balance of creative, freaky, and sexy. You'll need a wire hanger, a fabulous floor length robe, a headband and some big pinned curls!

Makeup:

•  For that Cold Cream mask look- Ben Nye's Clown White Foundation applied precariously and not blended or smoothed.
• A great matte red lipstick with a little depth to give that old Hollywood glamour- I suggest Mac's Viva Glam I.

Zombie Ice Skater

Things you'll need- I had to include one of my favorite costumes I did with my husband a few years back! For this zombie ice skater look I used a white embellished bathing suit then sewed a feather boa around the waist line.  For my hair I found white flower girl accessories to pin on the side and I found the medals at the dollar store. 

Makeup:

For the skull detailing and eyeliner = I suggest Mac's Black Track Fluidline used with Mac's Scene eyeshadow.

For the deep contouring - Mac's Coquette Eyeshadow is a cool toned brown that gives that near death, sunken cheek look.  

Pilates is for Hotties

Fashion and fitness go hand in hand. What's the point of lusting over Helmut Lang leather pants if you're just going to look like a stuffed sausage should they finally find their way to your closet? The look we are going for is long, lean, and in need of a sandwich. Which is why no matter how shit-crammed my schedule is, pilates is penciled in at least twice a week. Need convincing? Susan Lucci. Oh yeah, she looks great for a 40-year-old, blah blah blah-NO. This bitch is SIXTY-effing-EIGHT. 68.

Please don't get it twisted- exercise in NO WAY excuses bad eating habits. The best case scenario down that road is a thick turd frame that doesn't jiggle. The old saying "abs are made in the kitchen" is TRUTH to live and die by.

Let's get real though- when I say pilates, we aren't talking about one of those classes that "you didn't even REALIZE you were working out." Just stop. If that's the case, you're doing it wrong.  I am referring to 50 minutes, maybe an hour, of sweat, seizure-esque muscles shakes, and a slow steady burn. No pain, no gain.

Find yourself a BA instructor that pushes you towards toned tush nirvana. Shop around if you must.  We are looking for someone that you're positive has lost their marbles because they do shit like: expect you to hold that plank 30 more seconds or to squeeze that tiny blue ball between your things while doing reformer squats while hammer curling hand weights. Yes, we don't much like them at 6am but when you slip into that Bettinis bikini you're Revolve shopping cart is currently flirting with, they are your bestie. 

Live in the San Diego area and need a recommendation? I can can make this real quick: Brigette Guido at Club Pilates- Pacific Beach or Adriana Vargas at Live + Love Pilates in La Jolla. Just don't book up my fave classes. Or I will have to karate chop you with my pilate-chiseled guns. Namaste.

~Jeanie

LIVE & NUDE

So I know we just met and all, but apparently three blogs is all it takes for me to let loose and let it all hang. After imbibing in an excessive amount of antioxidant-rich grape juice, stuffing face with peanut butter cup ice cream, and then not clocking in anywhere close to my necessary nine hours of beauty rest last night, I'm looking beat ran over in need of some freshening up. So I figured I would kill two birds with one stone and use today's blog to introduce one of my favorite beauty products and use the 'ol iPhone to capture all the gory make-up and filter-free details. Things are about to get REAL.

Before:

Let's try and overlook the fact that my selfie game needs work and focus on the good stuff. Freshly scrubbed out of the shower, we've got facial discoloration, hormonal acne, and allover pallor- oh my!

The Good Stuff:

It's true that a tan covers a multitude of sins, but not only is sun damage the antichrist, it's cloudy out today so even if I wanted to make bad decisions and take it al fresco, mother nature has me in check.  Clarins Intense Bronze Self Tanning Tint is amazing for achieving a healthy glow- it's designed specifically for your face and goes on tinted so you can make sure to apply evenly.  It also doesn't clog pores (huge for me) and works super quickly. Whenever I apply it at night before going to bed, I always have at least one person the next day mention how I "got some sun" and look so nice and tan. GURLLLLLLL.

After:

Again, I know it's difficult to focus with the super chic selfie-fest, but let's move along and get back to the business.  These were taken an hour after application and you can see a difference already, DEFINITELY an improvement. The product continues to darken a bit too, so by the end of the day I'll be a shade or so bronzer. 

Hope this was helpful!  I had to share as this is one of my beauty staples that I've turned quite a few friends on to and is a (multi) repeat-purchase which says a LOT for me considering my compulsion to try ALL THE PRODUCTS.  I also feel the need to introduce you to Linus as I wrap this up since he is a camera whore that made the selfie shoot even more treacherous. Adios!

~Jeanie

Beach Bag Beauty

As i pack for my Hawaii trip i must remember: A vacation to a tropical locale does not mean a vacation from beauty maintenance. Yes, I must pry from my grip my contour palette, my Urban Decay smokey eyes and my curling wand and opt for a more effortless beach chic approach.  Although vacation season is coming to a close SoCal mother nature has been blessing (or burning...) us with a sweltering 90 degree heat wave. So whether your jetting away to the far corners of the South Pacific or your just heading down the road to cool off at La Jolla Shores here are some of my beach beauty must-haves I will be bringing as I embark upon balmy weather, intense sun, and salty waves.

La Roche Posay Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen

As much as i would love to carry a parasol and wear elbow length gloves like my fellow Asian cousins, this sunscreen allows me to maintain some of my dignity and protect my skin from the sun's aging rays.  All the ladies mags rave about it for good reason.  It's lightweight, has lasting protection and can be worn under makeup without a greasy finish.  A must have for all seasons! 

Nars Orgasm the Multiple

I just included this because the name is so amazing. JK!! No for real tho' this is a great cream stick blush in the same color as its popular powder blush predecessor "Orgasm."  It's a light-weight creamy texture with a soft coral and gold shimmer that looks great on tan dewy skin and can be used on cheeks, lips and eyes.  The stick application makes it easy to transport and it's also offered in a smaller travel size.  .

Eric Javits Sunhat

I have a propensity for melasma aka a skin discoloration resembling the beginning of a pencil thin Frenchmen's mustache. Thus a sunhat that offers preventative measures while still looking cute is KEY. I own the "Squishee" style photographed, but Eric Javits has multiple styles that are simple,versatile, and offer maximum sun protection blocking 95% of the suns UVA/UVB rays!! A total must in wrinkle prevention! They also travel super well and never lose their shape.  Just be prepared to spend a pretty penny. These can be found at Neiman Marcus or online but I was lucky to receive mine as a gift from my two bffs :)   

Chanel Inimitable Intense Mascara

I just can't live without mascara no matter where I am. This mascara is truly the best in lengthening, separating and holding curl.  If i have to be a minimalist with my makeup I still need to have an amazing set of lashes!

Kate Sommerville Exfolikate

After a day of sunscreen, salt water, sweat, sand, and god knows what else you've covered your face nothing is better than a good scrub down.  This exfoliating treatment is intense but SUPER effective.  You only need a pea size amount and a few minutes of scrubbing and your face will feel completely renewed.  The next day my makeup goes on smoother and i feel like i can abuse it all over again!

What's in your Beauty Beach Bag??

-Tuyen

Get your pose on!

GNO's happen on a rare occasion but when they do designer heals, spandex, big hair and lots of contour make an appearance.  

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7/25/15