Category: Beauty
It’s All in the Genes
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There are always those families who make you question where on earth your own genes got lost. The one with four kids in college sports or the squad with two successful actors in movies. So much so, that the families with one successful sibling? Eh, could’ve done better. Here’s to some of the first born siblings that found the itch and passed it on to their younger brothers or sisters – topped with a load of opportunities. We’ve thrown together some of the pairs, or groups, who didn’t just manage to impress their parents, or their high schools, or their Instagram followers–they found a larger platform to showcase just how much family matters.
[/tps_header]Gigi and Bella Hadid
They’re the sisters of the moment. The daughters of Yolanda Faster, a member of the “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” and the social media movement, the pair have walked up and down runways for Karl Lagerfield and Michael Kors. Anna Wintour calls them up regularly for cameos in Vogue, and V Magazine just recently photographed them for their cover, sprawled on the streets in matching gear.
A Nod to the ’90s: The Graphic Tee
Oh, the ’90s. A full-on Johnny Depp with Kate Moss (pre-Wiona), Cory with Topanga, Rachel with Ross extravaganza. The relationships were unforgettable (the TV couples even more so), but we must fixate our focus entirely to the fashion. And not just any Ked’s-wearing, flannel-rocking ’90s gal, the t-shirt kind of chick. It’s back. It’s here. The graphic t-shirt is officially a trend. Wear the t-shirt. You’re trendy! Especially if it’s cropped. Or Moschino. The the trend has happily marched its way back into our lives in 2015.
Whether it’s under overalls, on top of high-waisted jeans, or completely cropped, you saw the basic piece on Clueless, channeled it from Drew Barrymore, and admired it on Jennifer Aniston in Friends. In Spring 2015, it’s taking over the runways and the streets as a classic concept with endless options. The graphic tee has been through it–from dancing on David Letterman’s desk (if you’re Drew) to making the front row of the Moschino show (if you’re Miley)–and this timeless piece isn’t merely a ’90s revelation. So for the moment, scroll through below and get acclimated to some of the highlights. Give it just a few seconds—and you’ll find yourself wanting to shop for your own take on the graphic, with a personal twist on the tees.
Wimbledon Attire: A Match Made in Heaven
Serena Williams and Novak Djokovic just won titles at Wimbledon, crossing out a highly respected grand slam off their to-do list. They did it while wearing white on white, the traditional attire for the Wimbledon tournament. Just because the week of tennis is over doesn’t mean the trends have to end. In honor of Williams and Djokovic, we’ve bounced some white on white outfits off to you.
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Makeup Artistry: The Best Makeup Artists Out There
There’s a reason I’ve always felt weird about putting on makeup in front of boyfriends. It’s as if the curtain has risen, and behind it I’m a little less perfect and a lot more vain – and I blame it on the frivolous associations that people have with makeup. But I’m putting my foot down. Makeup is art, and the wielders of the brushes are true artists, using their powders and creams like any painter would pigments. My proof? The spectacular makeup artists below.
Best All-Around: Pat McGrath
Damn, does this Brit have a killer lineup: she’s done makeup for Vogue, W and Harper’s Bazaar covers, and fashion shows from Prada and Dolce & Gabbana to Miu Miu. If that wasn’t enough, this year she was named a Member of the Order of the British Empire for her services to the beauty and fashion industries. It’s no surprise why: she can do it all, from tame, glowing skin at Dolce to unbelievably abstract, colorful eyes at Dior.
The Mod Man: Tom Pecheux
As an avid lover of the 60s, the looks Tom Pecheux creates nearly strike me dead. They’re bold and graphic and look great on the pages of a magazine, no doubt the reason photographers like Patrick Demarchelier and Mario Testino are head over heels for his work. He’s also a fashion house favorite, from mod white eyes at Moschino to sassy pink liner at Derek Lam.
The All-American: Gucci Westman
Some of America’s favorite girls next door have been made up by the legendary Gucci Westman: Drew Barrymore, Natalie Portman, and Cameron Diaz, to name a few. Her looks are stunningly gorgeous, yes, but also made to flatter the everywoman. A few key moments: sparkling bronze eyes at J. Mendel and a fresh take on the cat eye at Rag & Bone. Don’t worry, though, she’s not always tame – see her look for Dior below for proof.
The Sexy Swede: Linda Hallberg
Yes, she’s Swedish, and yes, she’s sexy, but the key here is that this talented blogger creates looks that inspire other women to look their sexiest, too. She’s a master of color, but the amazing thing to me is that she never, ever looks overdone. I’m obsessed with her sunset eyes and flawless lip color application. You’ve likely seen her creations splashed all over Pinterest without even realizing it! Check out her YouTube – she’s behind BangerBeauty – for some of the best tutorials you’ll see.
The Scary Swede: Sandra Holmbom
Sorry for the Swedish obsession, but I couldn’t resist including Sandra Holbom, one of the most incredible artists out there. Take one look at her blog, Psycho Sandra, and watch as she transforms the human face into her canvas. She’s recreated scenes from Alice in Wonderland and made artful use of abstract patterns on her eyelids, and even regularly morphs herself into various animals. Plus, she’s a master of special effects makeup, the motive for the “scary” label. For your awe and amazement, see the collage of some of her best eye looks below.
The Best Water and Sweat Proof Beauty Products
There’s no doubt about it: the wavering weather patterns are over, and now it’s smooth sailing through months of unstoppable heat. Well, maybe “smooth” isn’t exactly the right word, at least when it comes to our makeup. This time of year, insane sunshine equals sweat equals cake-y foundation, running eye makeup and faded lipstick. Thankfully, I’m starting to finally feel like we live in the future – beauty brands are seriously KILLING it in terms of water and sweat proof products. I’ve tried out all of the ones here, and feel 100% confident backing their ability to keep you gorgeous during each and every cannonball and sweat avalanche.
Lancome Effacernes Waterproof Protective Undereye Concealer
This concealer is so good that I say skip foundation on the hottest days and just apply this on problem areas and under the eyes. It’s said to stay for an unbelievable 12 hours, and won’t do that obnoxious thing where it mixes with sweat and pools in lines under the eyes. In conclusion, you should probably buy this year-round, but it’s especially valuable in the summer.
NYX Rouge Cream Blush
In all honesty, the vast majority of the NYX line is pretty damn good at staying put, especially when you consider how cheap it is, but this blush is especially so. It’s easy to apply and blends well, and as it’s a cream formula, will absorb into the skin rather than sitting on top of it. What does this mean for you? You’ll still look radiant after a long day in the sun.
Maybelline Eye Studio Color Tattoo 24HR Eyeshadow
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: this is one of my Holy Grail beauty products, hands down. Without even using an eyeshadow primer, this stuff seriously LASTS, no creases, no fading. And bonus points for the massive amount of colors to choose from! My favorite? Bold Gold.
Urban Decay Cannonball Ultra Waterproof Mascara
Think of all the obnoxious things about wearing mascara in the water or in sweltering weather. We’re talking crunchy lashes and flaking, not to mention raccoon eyes. I kid you not, this mascara solves it all. I dare you to don it in the pool – step out and your lashes will be just as thick and bold as before, and even super soft. Run, don’t walk, to pick some up.
Lime Crime Velvetines
I’m Kate Foster, and I’m a Velvetine addict. Seriously, this stuff comes in six shades now, and I have every single stashed in my purse for a touchup at a moment’s notice. It applies easily like a gloss, but dries to a perfect, gorgeous matte in just a few seconds. Do all the smooching and munching that you desire, because this stuff’s not going anywhere.
Make Up For Ever Aqua Seal
Want one product that does it all? Mix this with all the stuff you’ve already got and apply. Done.
Wide-Awake Makeup Tutorial
Ahh, nothing like forthcoming finals to make you remember that your skin is not invincible. The stress, lack of sleep and crappy food can all add up to a big, ruddy mess on your face. But I’ve devised a face makeup routine that will totally cover those purple bags, dull skin, and any blemishes you may have acquired. All it takes is a little careful coverage.
1. Start with clean, moisturized skin.
2. Dot a liquid foundation, like Flower About Face Foundation with Primer, on the back of your hand.
3. Starting from the middle of your face, use a Beauty Blender sponge to apply the foundation. Use a dabbing motion, and utilize the sponge’s tiny tip to target areas that get ruddy easily: your nostrils, in between your eyebrows and right below your mouth.
4. Use that same tip to apply the foundation under the eyes, making sure to get as close to the lower lash line as possible.
5. Blend the foundation into the neck so that you have even color all over.
6. Use a concealer/brightener duo, like Benefit Boi-ing Eyebright Compact. Start with the concealer, applying it under the eyes in a triangular shape down your face. Make sure to blend well!
7. Dab the brightener part of the duo in the inner and outer corners of your eyes, blending upward into your brow bone. This makes the eyes look lifted and less tired.
8. Use a concealer to cover up any blemishes with your finger. I prefer a powder formula, like BareMinerals Broad Spectrum SPF 20 Concealer.
9. Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks using any blush brush. A peachy shade, such as MAC Honey Jasmine Blush will make you look the most awake.
*Many tend to include highlighter in a wide-awake makeup look, but I think the shimmer draws attention to bags and sallow skin. Skip it!
Done! Now you look like you’ve gotten a full eight hours of sleep, even if it’s a downright lie.
Open Toe Season and the Polish to Go With It
Summer’s here, and open toe shoes are out on the sidewalks again, which means one thing for me: time to frantically buff all of the winter scales off of my feet and choose my first toenail polish of the season. But there are so many sassy shoe trends on the horizon, and picking a cohesive shade can be tough. I dug through the newest shoe and nail trends to bring you your newest look – from the ankle down, that is.
Earthy Gladiators + Subtle Shimmer
This season’s gladiator is dramatic and to the knee, so don’t let your polish compete. Choose a nude with a teensy bit of shimmer so things don’t get dull down there.
(Via Spiga sandal and Butter London Nail Lacquer in Boho Rock)
Black Mules + Deep Shimmery Blue
Blue polish this spring has hints of green that make the shade entirely dimensional. It’ll kick your mules up a notch, but keep the look entirely moody.
(Maison Martin Margiela mules and Marc Jacobs Nail Lacquer in Sally)
Color Blocked Low Heel Sandals + Latte
Latte is THE nude right now, and the perfect partner for thick-strapped, low heel sandals in a multitude of tones. No foot ache and less noticeable chipping? Count me in.
(Kenzo sandal and OPI Nail Lacquer in Barefoot in Barcelona)
Dark Strappy Sandals + Classic Red
The strappy sandal is currently a little goth, with snakeskin elements and the style of a bootie. Avoid going too Vampira by sticking with a classic cherry red on your tootsies.
(Gucci bootie and Essie Nail Lacquer in Hip-Anema)
Metallic Pumps + Clean White
Ahh, Calvin Klein would be proud. This look is all about clean minimalism – we’re talking everyday pumps in bold silver with oh-so-easy white toenails.
(Oscar de la Renta pump and Ciate Paint Pot in Snow Virgin)
How To: Flawless Skin
I like to think of my bright lipsticks, dramatic liner and eye-catching shadows as my style accessories. And my Little Black Dress? Flawless skin. Unfortunately, obtaining it is easier said than done, but after nearly a decade of oily, acne-ridden skin and about a million products, I think I may have found the secret recipe. It’s all about a combination of prevention and covering up with products that won’t make the problem worse. And though this regimen won’t work for everyone, I tend to think that if it works for me, it can work for almost anyone.
Step 1: Prevention
1. Wash your face with an oil cleanser twice daily. Yup, oil. It’ll sooth dry skin, of course, but also help prevent acne. This is because when the skin is dry, it overcompensates by producing more oil than necessary. Using an oil wash will bring your skin back to its equilibrium. I’m a fan of DHC Deep Cleansing Oil.
2. Apply a salicylic acid cream like Philosophy Clear Days Ahead Oil-Free Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment & Moisturizer. If you have combination skin, just apply to your T-Zone.
3. Morning: finish with an SPF 30+ sunscreen, but make sure it’s oil-free. I’m obsessed with Eucerin Daily Protection Moisturizing Face Lotion.
Night: It’s never too early to start thinking about anti-aging. I love moisturizing, anti-aging serums like Clinique Repairwear Laser Focus Wrinkle & UV Damage Corrector.
Step 2: Covering Up
1. Apply a liquid foundation in your shade, starting from the T-zone and blending outward with a Beauty Blender sponge. Try Revlon PhotoReady Foundation, and find your shade by matching it to your jawline rather than the back of your hand.
2. Pat concealer under the eyes and on any blemishes. Almay Smart Shade CC Concealer and Brightener does double duty.
3. Finish by brushing a sheer layer of bareMinerals Matte Foundation over the T-zone, and spot-pat it onto blemishes to fully cover up.
4. Add blush, bronzer and/or highlighter of your choice to accent your flawless skin. I prefer cream or mousse formulas for a more natural look.
Fresh Spring Fragrances
The sun is out, the flowers are blooming, and you’re putting all your sweaters away. Stop right there. There’s one more thing you have to do to officially call in spring, something you may have never even thought about: switching out your perfume. Your winter variety is likely too heavy for the next few months, and thankfully designers are abound with light, fabulous new fragrances. I’ve chosen my five favorites below – what better excuse is there to splurge on yourself?
Dolce & Gabbana Dolce
Ahh, to be in Sicily right about now. This fragrance is inspired by the designers’ sweet memories of this exotic island, and infused with a mixture of gorgeous white flowers. It smells light and beautiful, and is WAY cheaper than a D&G gown. Need I say more?
Balenciaga Rosabotanica
This perfume is for the rebellious – it’s made of roses, but a more rare, green variety. Plus, citrus notes ensure that you don’t stink like your Grandma. And who could resist that bottle? So wonderfully graphic!
Elizabeth and James Nirvana White
Just like when you were five, Mary-Kate and Ashley have got you covered. This peony and musk fragrance is the more airy alternative to their Nirvana Black. Why not pick up both, and have all four seasons under your belt?
Aerin Lilac Path
There’s a reason Aerin Lauder’s fragrance line is so popular, and it’s not just because of her last name. Lilac Path is particularly sweet, with notes of the purple flower, angelica seed oil, and orange flower. It’s no wonder Aerin herself says it “captures the spirit of spring and makes it last.”
Jo Malone Peony & Blush Suede
Admittedly, this cologne came out a season ago, but I couldn’t resist putting it on my list because it is my favorite fragrance of ALL TIME. And it features all of the best scents ever: peonies, red apples, jasmine, rose, gillyflower, and blush suede. Just try and resist its charms, why don’t you?
Tutorial: Lorde-Inspired Dark Lips
Fall has come and gone, but my pastel lipsticks are nowhere to be found. Instead, I’m standing out from the spring break crowd with dark, vampy lips, which give my mouth some major attitude. My inspiration is none other than Lorde, soulful singer and goth lipstick queen. But dark lips come with a number of issues: bleeding out of the lip line and staying on through the night, to name a few. The products and steps below will ensure your pout stays perfect, even if – like Lorde – you’re performing all night long.
1. Pat any translucent powder all over the lips. This will make your lip color pop, as well as help it stay on longer.
2. Apply a purple stain over the lips – it’ll show a bit through the darker lip color and give you the kind of dimensionality Lorde tends to rock. I like Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Crush.
3. Blot the topmost layer of color off with a tissue, another tactic to ensure staying power.
4. Dot a dark lip product – like OCC Lip Tar in Black Dahlia – on the hand so it will be easy to apply with a lip brush.
5. Use a lip brush to fill in lips with the dark lip color. The OCC product comes with its own mini lip brush.
6. Use the tip of the brush to smooth out any imperfections, especially near the cupid’s bow. Since the lip color pops so much, any errors will be obvious!
7. All finished! Stand back and make sure there are no smudges from afar.
