Beauty Secrets by Diana Manzanares

My First Time

2011-06-03T21:16:00.000-07:00

My first official photo-shoot was back in spring 2004. I had recently graduated from makeup school and went to Crystal Wright's seminar. Seminars like this can only inspire you. It opened up doors for me and I can truly say it marked the beginning of a great beautiful journey. Shortly after the seminar I was at the movies in Union Square and I picked up a village Voice newspaper, I opened it and turned to the classifieds; there might have been maybe just one job listing for makeup artist and then I saw a few photographers in search of models, actors etc. So, I contacted them. One responded his name was Tykon, I wish that phones would let you keep Voicemails forever. I can still here his flamboyant laugh and enthusiasm. Now at 19 years old growing up in Jamaica, Queens this was a whole new world for me!

I met Tykon at a Starbucks and he told me, “ I have a makeup artist that I work with but I like your ambition and the pictures you have” Now mind you, my pictures were a few snap shots from school. He scheduled a shoot where he had his regular makeup artist and myself. Thinking back at it now he probably did this in case I was a total flop!

I have to tell you the day before I was so nervous, I didn’t sleep I kept thinking, “Do I have everything?” I must have gone over my kit a million times. My biggest fear was taking someone’s eye out with the eyelash curler. I laugh now thinking back at it but it was a true experience. When I showed up he gave me freeway to be creative. His complement to me was that he loved my precision and how fast I worked. I had my teachers to thank for that. Funny thing some of my first pictures till this day 7 years later still remain some of my favorite. He only shot film actually. Every other photographer I work with has always shot digital. I have scanned a few pictures from that shoot, excuse me it may have lost some of its luster after scanning.

In this industry I think things sometimes can become clouded especially through obstacles you have to over come. I think back at that time in my life and it makes me remember that whoever really wants something can always create bridges through those obstacles and create paths to your own destiny. You never loose anything by asking, the worst thing they can say is no. After all Tykon was not looking for a makeup artist in his ad.

Beauty in Pink

2010-12-20T08:10:00.000-08:00

My last two weeks have been a blessing and one of the most rewarding experiences I have had as a makeup artist. Mary Kay cosmetics had asked me to be a part of something wonderful; making women who had forgotten how beautiful they are, remember that. Mary Kay, often does events for domestic violence and this one did not fall short. I’m happy that I was able to be a part of this. The first place was a shelter in Brooklyn, NY at Safe Horizon. A safe place for women that have been through domestic violence and then a location in Miami.

At the event in Brooklyn I had the pleasure of giving these ladies a makeup over and getting to know them. Mary Kay founded this program to help a cause that goes overlooked at. Having a brand like Mary Kay is extremely beautiful most of these women had never dreamed of getting a makeup over or further more in getting the beauty gifts they received. The women that attended the even were able to receive a lipstick matching according to their complexions and getting their eyebrows threaded as well. Mary Kay has been able to bring great awareness by having respected media be a part of this cause. All interviews are confidential and optional keeping the ladies identities safe.

The next stop was in Miami, you would think that the highlight of my trip was getting away from the freezing weather of NY but what was the greatest part of my trip was when one of the ladies that received the makeover said to me, “Gracias, gracias por estar aqui, y por hacerme sentir bella, tu no sabes que esto sinfica par nosotras, y que te puedo dicer, te quiero”. Translation, “Thank you, Thank you for being here and making me feel beautiful, we have been excited about this day since we found out. You don’t know what this means to us, and, what can I tell you, I adore you.” That to me was just so touching and moving. I will never forget the women that I have met through this to me they were an inspiration. An inspiration because they are fighters and they have moved forward not only for themselves but for their kids.

kiss Kiss

2010-09-14T05:03:00.000-07:00

Hey Ladies don’t miss out in getting the new MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Intense lipsticks at Sephora. Makeup For Ever is Participating in KISS FOR A CAUSE $1 from every qualifying red lip purchase* made before September 15, 2010, (up to $25,000) will benefit the Beauty Bus Foundation. The Beauty Bus Foundation provides in-home beauty treatments to terminally and chronically ill patients and their caregivers. For more information about the Beauty Bus Foundation, visit www.beautybus.org.  *Qualifying red lip purchases:  MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Intense in 43 Moulin Rouge or 17 Gold

Check us out in Red Lipstick including singer song writer Charlene Kaye who I used number 43 Moulin Rouge for her upcoming music video.

A little treasure from down under

2010-08-04T20:43:00.000-07:00

At the tip of the country there is this place called Florida and in this place there is somewhere called South Beach. There just at the end I ended up after my rather different experience in Europe. Needless to say this week in South Beach was filled with a lot of great finds and fun times at the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Swim 2010. I would like to introduce you to a makeup line called Tinte cosmetics, the makeup was used backstage at the Red Carter show, I got the pleasure of speaking with Stacy Provines Reid, the Creator of Tinte about the line where she told me about the names she used for her products and how they all hold a meaning to her. For example, the place where she met her husband. The line takes you back to innocence and down memory lane remembering that first kiss; It’s a true trophy representing women of our past that has shaped the modern A list women of today. I got the pleasure in trying some of the makeup, and I have to say the pigments colors are amazing and would be a great add on to any makeup artist or makeup junkie. Make sure to try Sun Kissed! The Match Book is pretty cool tool its nice for travel and giving you a nice easy palette to work with. Okay so, this summer I’m obsessed with bright lip-gloss but ever since I got South Beach lip-gloss that is just a clear I have to either wear that alone or layer on top of my bright lip color. It just smells so good! Like coconuts! Well they all smell good that’s just my favorite!! Definitely keep an eye out for these little treats already becoming a celebrity hit check out the whole line at the TINte website. The look you see below is the look that was used on the models backstage with key makeup artist Hillary Fenton.

Hillary led her team and created a look to fit the Red Carter show and look. The look was chic and dewy perfect for swim. The look can be achieved by using Vanilla Sky and Sun Kissed Shimmering face pearls that gives the skin that natural radiance. These shades you will find to really give you a nice highlight and can use it off the Runway as well. The eyes were emphasizes using the Natural Match Book and then the Smokey Match Book along the lash line to give them an extra pop. The Lip gloss used was Cream Soda giving the models a soft Glossy Pout.

Beauty that Counts

2010-05-25T10:01:00.000-07:00

Domestic Violence is s subject in which our society is affected by daily. Did you know that one in four women will go through domestic violence once in there lifetime. Mary Kay will be featuring 3 new limited edition shades of lipstick all named to encourage women, Compassion, Inspiration, and Confidence. Mary Kay will be donating $1 for each lipstick sold from May 1 to September 15, 2010. Who said beauty can’t make a difference?

Mary Kay Beauty That Counts lipsticks come in three different shades Inspiration in a light soft pink, Compassion has just enough color of pink to bright you up in a playful fuchsia, and confidence in a bold berry. All these changes are made to fit any complexion and bring you from spring to summer. The packaging is adorable it says, thank you in 13 different languages on the tube and on the carton. “Thank you” is a reminder that a change is being made because of the consumer contribution. I actually will be giving a few of the lipsticks for Mothers day and graduations it makes the perfect gift. J

Below you will find the video we worked on with Mary Kay consultant Christina. Christina is easily becoming an inspiration to women and that there is hope during the recession. Her business within a year has grown so much, she is happier then ever. Doing her make was a complete joy. We played up her eyes with Mary Kay eye shadows in Granite, Navy Blue along the lash line and Crystalline by the brow. The blush I used on her was Shy Blush. On her lips we started by using Mary Kay Satin Lips, lip balm, then I applied Compassion and layered Fancy Nancy gloss in the center of her lips to add a pop. BTW Mary Kay concealers, highlighting pen and mascara are my new have to have items in my kit!

Beauty on a Budget

2010-04-26T10:17:00.000-07:00

Photographed by Amy Dunn

With the recession still affecting the economy I’m sure a lot of you feel that you need to cut some things out. Well, I’m telling you that there are still some things out there that won’t cost us our lunch. Here is a look I created using all L’Oreal products. Amazing products and won’t put a dent in your pockets or make you sacrifice your trip to Starbucks.

With this look in particular I’m going to start with the eyes because you might get some fall.

On the eyes start by using Witty HIP cream shadow all over the lid then use Mischief eye shadow duo, start by using the lighter color on the inner lid then use the navy color on the outer corner of your eye and work into the crease. Use HIP color chrome eyeliner top and bottom and then use a smudge brush over the liner and brush outwards to create a Smokey effect. You can add a little of the navy to your smudge brush this will give your eyes depth. Then use voluminous mascara top and bottom

If you have any fall clean it off and start prepping your skin start with a moisturizer for your skin type continue by using Studio Secrets Magic Perfecting Base. The base will help minimize the appearance of fine lines and pores.

Then you want to start with your base I like True Match its light weight and oil free. Start by your nose and work it outwards. I like starting in the center its where we mostly need a little coverage. This way you only apply makeup where you need it. Always remember to blend it outwards Continue by apply your concealer underneath your eyes you can use your fingers to warm up the product and blend it out. True Match or Visible Lift are great for underneath your eyes. Never pull you want to pat it away.

Setting your makeup, Important? Not important? Well, have you ever applied your makeup and it’s gone or starts moving? Does your concealer disappear? Two steps that you shouldn’t skip are your base and setting powder. The base will help it stay on longer without sinking into your pores. Your setting powder will help it from caking up. Once it’s set it you can continue with any color products like blushes, bronzer etc.

I used HIP-Illuminating highlighter to give the skin a natural looking glow. If you would like to add some color on your checks try Bare Naturale in Pinched Pink

Lips: HIP Color Presso in 182 Trendy

These products can be used to create many other looks! :-)

Minds Matter

2010-04-17T20:31:00.000-07:00

Minds Matter is a non-profit organization that dedicates its time to transferring the lives of high school students that have shown accomplishments. They are students from low-income families; Minds Matter helps broaden their dreams and prepares them for a successful college experience.

I had the pleasure of being part of this year 9^th Annual Spring Soiree; this event helps to over 100 exceptional students through college and programs. This event included a fashion show from Sachkia where you saw their clothing shine on the runway. I assisted by donating a fabulous team of talented makeup artist and creating a look to complement the Sachika new collection. The look had a Twilight feel matt skin, long lashes and a dark lip.

Take the look in the streets by using a Natural tones and Taupe like SMASHBOX eye shadow in trio in SMASHBOX.COM or HEADSHOT

-Take a Ponytail brush and sweep the darker shade through your crease only creating a shadow.

-Lighter color on the lid.

-Try Caviar Eyeliner from SMASHBOX it goes on so smoothly. Use it very close to lash line only to get definition stay away from cat eye with this look. Use the liner also in BTWN your lower lashes. Take a smudge brush to make it softer.

-Use a flesh-tone or white in the lower inner-rim of your eye

-Mascara top and bottom Try SMASHBOX, Bionic

- With a darker powder then your skin sweep it underneath the apple of your cheeks to your ears to give your higher check bones. If you suck in your cheeks that part that goes in is what you’re shading in.

-Cheeks you want to create a natural hint of color as if you were cold or blushing use pink tones with no shimmer on the apple of the cheeks don’t drag up. Try MAC in Pink Swoon, darker skin like Aminat try MAKE UP FOR EVER in # 58

-Lips if your daring go for a full cover lipstick in a matt or cream. Try Aqua lip liner from MAKE UP FOR EVER in 13C and try Cyber or Rebel on top of it from MAC

-If you want to play it safe try a lip-stain at least 1-2 darker then your lips. Try Laura Mercier in Mulberry or Benefit’s Benetint

Aminat Ayinde

QueenRa & Ashley

Special thanks to my makeup team for donating there time for a great cause

Tiffany Hall-Scarmana

Emilia Adamkiewicz

Wenya Chang

Keila Rivera

Shayla Harris

Jamie Adeline

Thank You SMASHBOX for the awesome products.

Some of the pics above were taken by photographer Arthur Eisenberg

Diana's Picks

2010-03-28T20:15:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys check this site out, Beauty Awards you get to vote for your favorite products. As most of you might know I love my Make Up For Ever a lot of people never paid too much attention to it but now it’s getting plenty of LOVE. So, it was nice to see them nominated for stuff. The great thing about this site is it gives you product reviews on everything! It’s nice to see what people are saying about products you haven’t used but have thought about trying.

Here are my picks some of them were hard choices we will find out in a few days the winners should be interesting to compare when the winners are in. I would love to hear your opinions about your favorites or my favorites and the winners! Last day to vote is March 31^st.

Best Bronzer

I picked Benefit Hoola, because I feel that it doesn’t turn orangey, not to much shimmer, and goes with many different complexions.

Best Brow Enhancer, so I have heard plenty of great things about Anastasia but never used it. I have used both Benefit Brow Zing and Smashbox. In fact I’m wearing Benefit now, but I use Smashbox in my makeup kit. SO? Which do I pick? I picked Smashbox because it has a wider selection of colors. Benefit only has 3. As far as formula they both stay on pretty well and go on smoothly.

Best Concealer: What a surprise another tough one for me I really do like Laura Mercier Secret camouflage for the face because its oil free. I also love Make Up For Ever, Full cover its oil free and waterproof. I choose Make Up For Ever because I feel its creamer and also because its waterproof.

Best Eyeliner: Hands down Make Up For Ever Aqua eye!!! Glides on stays on won’t smudge!!

Best Eye Shadow: this was another tough one! I Love L’Oreal Hip shadows they are pretty much true to color, they are affordable and awesome, I also love Chanel quad shadows and urban decay they are silky and beautiful colors! I picked L’Oreal HIP!

Foundations: I picked Make Up For Ever Mat Velvet. It really is Matifying

Best Highlighter and Multi-Tasker: This category I wish was split in too because I really do like High beam as a highlighter, Benetint as a stain, and Nars multiple as a blush or highlighter even on the lips! So this was tough I went with MAC pigment you can use it as shadow depending on color as a highlighter or blush or even mixing with mixing medium to create new textures. You mixed it with clear gloss you got your self a lip color. So I went with that one.

Best Lip Balms: So many to pick from, we have all heard of Carmex, Burt’s bee but where is Fresh Sugar lip balm?!? At the moment my favorite is Korres Natural product lip butter I like that they have a slight tint and they really do feel like butter on my lips.

Best Lip Gloss: So, I know many of you are going to be like, "Here she goes picking the over priced one" lol, but they are just so pretty and NOT sticky, Chanel Glossimer! Runner ups L’Oreal Paris sheer lip-gloss a girl has to have her shiny lip-gloss!

Best Lipstick: Lipstick can me such a nightmare to find that perfect shade, what looks good on me might not look good on the next person, just like fragrance it changes on everyone. I like a lot of Nars lipstick they have great shades and textures. I also like Mac lipstick they have sheer, mat and so many choices for all of you that like options.

I picked MAC.

Best Mascara: My # 1 choice is L’Oreal Voluminous The black is really black and further more it stay put!!

Best Nail Polish: with this category I didn’t have too much of an opinion I picked Essie I always find a shade I love.

Best Powder: Laura Mercier Loose setting powder, I like the silky formula to this, its micro fine and doesn’t alter your foundation. It gets the job done and sets your makeup

Best Primer: Smashbox photo primer light: This product is just amazing.

Best Tool: All these products have different use so it was weird but I picked Tweezerman you have lifetime warranty and can get them sharpened for free.

My Makeup Reel

2010-03-07T08:12:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone, take a look at my most recent project creating a makeup reel.
Can I just say how easy it was to create this, my IMac is my new bestfriend.
To bad I can't go dancing, chat, and go to happy hour with it huh.
Well, check it out let me know what you think.

Down the Rabbit hole

2010-03-04T14:48:00.000-08:00

With all the hype of Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland new film to be shown in theaters tomorrow I decided to share with you a few pics from a past photoshoot.

Lewis Carroll Through the looking glass has always intrigued me the way you see this world of nonsense can be interrupted in so many ways. I feel like we all need an escape of make believe. I'm actually really excited to see the movie!!!

These images were featured in C-Heads online

Model: Jeanette Thevenin for Click models

Photographer: Bartek Radwan

Designer/stylist: Dagmara Dziedzic

Hairstylist: Wendy Maginley

Makeup: Diana Manzanares

Makeup assistant: Nina Torres

Beauty Trends

2010-02-25T15:06:00.000-08:00

Fashion week came and went, oh so quick! You can see models running for castings and designers buzzing with excitement in the garment district. While Bryant Park prepared the Tents for there last shows there. My week started nice and early Thursday morning with the evidence of the snow storm still on the ground we all held strong and brought the excitement on. The looks varied from dramatic to simple all depending on the designer. Take a look at some of the shows I worked on for a sneak peak at fashion trends and beauty trends for Fall 2010

Wendi Reed fall 2010

Wendi Reed’s looks were casual and comfortable it was to no surprise that her beauty looks would represent an effortless no makeup look and high pulled back ponytails.

I used Vanilla pigment from Mac on the eyes and Voluminous carbon black Mascara from L’Oreal

On the face I used, Make Up For Ever Face and body foundation only where they needed it

Bronzy skin with a hint of color on the cheeks and lips.

Try cream blushes from NARS, Penny lane for lighter skin and Montenegro for darker complexions.

On lips try something sheer and soothing like L’Oreal Hip Jelly balm in Ripe

Laquan Smith Fall 2010

The next show had a similar beauty look to Wendi Reed with a little more punch.

Laquan’s look was a bit more glam so we used golds and lots of bronzer to really make the skin look golden.

We used Covergirl Foundation, clean line and Queen line on the skin.

Lots of Covergirl, Queen natural hue bronzer blended into the hairline

On the Eyes we used Covergirl’s Smokey shadow blast in Bronze Fire, the lighter side all over the lid all the way to the brow and the darker side as a liner in the bottom the eyes. Lashes were curled and pumped with LASHBLAST mascara

Lips try Covergirl Wet Slicks in No Care Bare layered with Shine Blast in Flare.

The hair was also pulled back into a straight ponytail.

The look was created by Ashunta Sheriff and sponsored by CoverGirl

Tamara Pogosian

Tamara Pogosian likes her models to have more expressional eyes so I created a Smokey purple look using Eydie Marie eye shadow palette created specifically for the show. I used the navy blue on the lid up to the crease to create depth and then layered with purple, False lashes were applied and then using a black eye shadow to smoke the color out. I used a black coal pencil by Make Up For Ever and L’Oreal Voluminous mascara to coat the models lashes into the fake lashes.

For a flawless face I used Face Atelier Foundations and loose powder to buff and blend the makeup into the skin. I also used high beam from Benefit to highlight the temples.

I used MAKE UP FOR EVER, Raspberry Brown on darker skin tones and MAC, Pink Swoon on lighter skin tones. I then layer with L’Oreal’s bare natural blush in Pink Glow. Blush was only used on the apple cheeks and blend outwards making sure most of the color is at the apples.

Lips were kept really simple close to the lip color and lip balm not to glossy try L'Oreal Infalliable gloss in Blush 115.

Hair was styled by Melissa Paldino and her team into loose curled braids Sponsored by Sexy Hair

Look created by Diana Manzanares

Makeup Sponsor: Eydie Marie

Caesar Galindo Inspiration came from Joan Jett

This look was very fun we got to play with color we used blues to create strong rock star eyes and false lashes and strong cheek color blending it into the temples.

-On the eyes we used Mary Kay eyesicles in vanilla all over the lid and the layered with Electric Smokey blue palette

-Blush: Bold Berry and Dessert Sun

-Lips: Sunny Citrus

Ashunta Sheriff Created the look Makeup Sponsor Mary Kay

Sally Wu ART + CRAFT

This look was nice and simple skin had a nice glow. Here you can see how to use makeup in different ways with no rules.

-I used MAKE UP FOR EVER Face and Body and lots of strobe cream from MAC to make the skin look dewy.
-The eyes have a dark grey blended up to the crease
-Lips have TARTE check stain in Tickled
-We then popped clear lip gloss on the temples and cheekbones to give the face a real wet look.
Warning this can get sticky and uncomforatble leave this just for the runway, instead try Benefit's High Beam for an extra pop!
Look created by Laura Pugliese

Be-You-Tiful

2010-02-14T12:00:00.000-08:00

I would like to dedicate this blog to all the women that have been a positive element in my life. To those women that go day by day making a difference in the world. To those women that put there families and others first. To all of us that give it our 110% everyday trying to be the best we can be. Most of all I’d like to dedicate this to my mother who has always put herself last and today I tell her, “Your beautiful

don’t forget about YOU.

This Valentine day I want you all to embrace the women in you. Whether your single or in love let focus on you. Here is a quote that to me means a lot to me,

The most exciting, challenging and significant relationship of all is the one you have with yourself. And if you can find someone to love the you, YOU love, well, that's just fabulous. Carrie Bradshaw Sex and the City

After all how can we really find love, if we don’t know ourselves, and love ourselves. I want you ladies this Valentines Day to take a look in the mirror and really embrace your beauty. We all come in different colors; sizes and we are all BEAUITFUL!

First pick a home mask from my skin salad blog and relax

Now Glam yourself up with one of these looks

The Innocent: This look is supposed to look simple and effortless, you want your lashes to bat and your cheeks to blush! I used an iridescent eye shadow and lots of mascara, peachy- pink blush and lots of gloss! For a nice eyeshadow and blush try Make Up For Ever, Star Powder #953 Gloss: Try L'Oreal Hip Presso in Snazzy

The temptress: If you want to play it up like Paola here, Well start off by using a cream based eye shadow and use black pigment really close to the lash line and blend it into the crease, Faux lashes, contour under your cheek bones with a powder darker then your skin, The go with a powerful red try L'Oreal's Penelope's Red

The Diva: Anya natural flare can be seen here with not to much effort, dewy skin, and lots of mascara, sexy cat eyeliner, and a cranberry lip for a kissable pout. Try Cranberry by Laura Mercier

The Sophisticated: Diana has a classic look here from her hair and makeup. She looks like she belongs in an old Hollywood painting. Her Smokey eyes are blended out leaving no rough edges, the inner rim of the eyes are the darkest point. Eyebrows are well groomed and filled in. For lips try something like Chanel's Lover lipstick.

Skin Salad

2010-02-12T18:13:00.000-08:00

Is the cold affecting your skin? Feeling like your skin is tired or dry? If your answer is yes how about a mask right from your kitchen

Normal to dry skin (mix in Blender)

1/2 a Cucumber

3 Strawberry

1 Banana

2 TS Pure corn scratch

Milk powder

Face moisture try something simple like Cetaphil

Tired Skin (mix in Blender)

1/2 Potato cooked slices

1 Carrots

Face Moisturizer

(If you have extra place in jar with lid and refrigerate don’t keep for more then 2 weeks)

Slice a few extra cucumbers and place them in the refrigerator

When you are done prepping your mask wash your face with warm water try to leave the hot water running a little to get the steam to open your pores.

When you are done take out your cucumbers and your mask first apply the mask all over your face and then lay down dim the light and place the cucumbers over your eyes and relax. Leave on for 20 minutes.

To cleanse either take a wet warm towel (heat in microwave) or wash your face in the shower.

Follow with toner and moisturizer.

If any reaction occurs use whole milk on the reaction and take a Benadryl.

Seal it with a Kiss

2010-02-10T13:53:00.000-08:00

Bright red lips can be fun and easy. With all these 80's trends its hard not to play with some color.

Lip color: First I used Mac's Ruby Woo lipstick and then layered Make Up For Ever Super lip gloss in #8 on top

Images from Sachika holiday fashion show

Powder it on

2010-01-31T13:49:00.000-08:00

I felt it was important to talk to you all about powders and why so many options. It seems that everyone has seen Nichole Kidman’s picture with white powder on her face. While I’m not her makeup artist and don’t know what happen there I can tell you that certain makeup can and will change the color of your skin in flash photography for example SPF, wrong foundation colors, shimmers. I do invite photographers to help us understand what different makeup products do to a picture.

Setting powders are usually translucent loose powders that help keep your makeup in place without transferring onto your clothes. A lot of makeup artist also use the powder for” Catch all” Catch all means they place a generous amount of this powder underneath your eyes and on top of your cheek bones. What this does is it allows any eye shadows residue to fall onto the powder and not in your prepped skin. Then it’s easier to just brush it away.

With so many mediums of makeup now you have to very careful what you use or mor

e importantly if you use them properly the newest thing is HD makeup. HD makeup gives you a flawless look. The steps are using a primer, makeup and then the HD powder. Now I have to say the HD Powder is one of my favorite products but you have to be careful how you use it. A little goes a long way!!! You need the smallest amount all over to set the makeup and should be used right after the initial application. This is not a product to use “catch all” method or a product to touch up with. With the HD powder its best to use all over and evenly.

A shimmer powder should be used to highlight for example you can use it on shoulders, and cheekbones.

Celebrity or not lets not walk around with discoloration on our faces.

Yerevan Magazine

2010-01-19T17:17:00.000-08:00

Photographer: Christel Bangsgaard

Hair: Gianina Contin

Stylist Julie B.

Makeup: Diana Manzanares

I have worked with Tamara Pogosian on Countless shoots, and fashion shows. Her vision is always classic and feminine. These pictures were featured in Yerevan magazine from two different photo shoots. One was a shoot with Porsche we started our day nice and early I would say probably around 8am we began makeup and hair. We started in a location in right outside Manhattan we then continued to the Westside to shoot with fabulous cars. The dresses used were feminine and flowy. Photographer, Christel Bangsgaard raced with natural light to capture the light in these images. Gianina Contin, fought with the wind to keep the hair and place and I fought with the hair getting stuck on the lips. It was quite an eventful shot but with a wonderful outcome.

The makeup here was very bronzy softer skin but always keeping the eyes the focal point. Tamara likes her models to always have very sexy powerful eyes.

This collection was fall/winter

Photographer: Stephen Hurst

Hair: Sarah Kim

Makeup: Diana Manzanares

The makeup here was darker in the eyes with sculpted cheeks and pinky/ peach gloss. The Photographer, Stephen really created a painting with the images. I remember looking at the pictures as they uploaded on the screen thinking these pictures look like they are being painted on to the screen. He then created a total different feeling for the ready to wear collection. Sarah’s hair was very sculpted precise which tied so well with the sculpted checks and features that I created.

It’s to no surprise that Yerevan Magazine featured Tamara they really showcased her talent and creativity.

Obsession

2009-12-23T22:27:00.000-08:00

So about a month ago I worked together with photographer, Caius Christoe on a shoot for a chance to be in W magazine. He wanted to do something that was not so cliché’ He choosed to do a shoot with lots of pencils I thought that was genius. An artist always needs his tools it’s like his right hand. That tool could be our hands, camera, face, body, brush or just as simple as a pencil. I like that this could mean so much to so many people and yet so simple.

Everyone came together with their art and brought it!! From wardrobe, lighting, hair to makeup. It was on! Even though we were all so tired we began shooting at about 9pm and bang it out by 12am. Impressive huh?

With Makeup I made her eyes the striking point using lots of black and a yellow to create lines. Her lips were nude from OCC ‘s Lip Tar. I gave her lots of highlight and contour on her face to create sculpted features. The hairstylist Scott sculpted the hair and added white highlights to create a contrast in color.

Our picture made it to the semi-finals there is a public vote going on in which you can vote once a day everyday. I’m really excited about this image I feel like it’s a strong solid image. I would love to get your support in voting for the image at http://theartcontest.wdesires.com/public-voting.php

It’s the image under Caius Christoe

I would love to hear your comments as well.

Right now I can’t help but have Jay-Z and Alica Song in my mind,

“ In New York, concrete jungle where dreams are made of

There’s nothing you can’t do, now you’re in New York

These streets will make you feel brand new

Big lights will inspire you, let’s hear it for New York”

Thanks you

Happy Holidays!

Credits

Hair: Scott Wasserman

Photographer: Caius Christoe

Model: Natalia Gouzi

Stylist: Ihunna Eberendu

Makeup: Diana Manzanares

Classifyed makeup

2009-11-17T20:44:00.000-08:00

If any of you plan on getting out of the cold for the holidays, here are some tips on resort makeup. This look comes straight from the Spring 2010 Fashion Week.

I came up with two looks for Annie S . who focused her talent on designing resort/swimwear: one, a very glam look that I named “Hampton Chic” and the other, a soft and romantic” Tropical Paradise.” Eydie Marie, a makeup artist for the CW network, created a palette for me to

use at the fashion show called, “Hampton Chic Remix.”

Eydie Marie is known for creating a line for Latinas, a void in the industry that needed to be fulfilled. The skin tone for Latin women can vary in light and darker shades. She has been

in the industry for 25 years and is definitely an artist that inspires me.

*Key: lets start with the gold shimmer at 11 O’clock being 1 going clockwise*

"Hampton Chic" is more of a night look to make sure you get noticed. It's definitely your "Glam" look. Who doesn't want to look Glamours, right?

1. Start with a base all over the eye. I used copper flash color from Make Up For Ever.

2. Contour with darker burnt color # 4 on Eydie Marie’s makeup disc.

3. Use a liquid black liner to create a pronounced cat eye.

4.Contoured the whole face and add a little bronzer by using Hoola from Benefit.

5. For a more pronounced cheekbones use # 6 right above the black on the disk.

6. Keep a true nude color on the lips and use the ultimate coverage: Lip Tar from OCC in Petty Beige.

Be careful what you wish for! This product will give you a complete coverage and is true to color no surprises!

7.To finish the look, take Mac Glitter in 3D gold over the whole lid using a flat brush.

Sometimes being a natural actually takes more work. For the Tropical Paradise look I used the Eydie Marie Palette on the eyes

1. I started with FY Eye, Benefit’s shadow base all over the lid

2. I then went in with # 3 on the disc only on the lid

3. In the crease using a pony brush I used # 6

4. A tight line was done along the lash line followed with # 4 top and bottom

5. Lots of mascara on both top and bottom lashes

6. On the cheeks I used one of my favorite products that is going to be discontinued Bene fit's

cream blushers in Shh, depending on skin tone I also used benetint on

both Lips and cheeks. This is the perfect stain giving you the ultimate staying power.

Specail thanks to my team for making a great show

Alexandra Andrade

Keila Rivera

Nil Muir

Cataanda James, Hairstylist and her team

Sponsers

Makeup: Eydie Marie

Hair: Rusk

Dilemma

2009-11-17T15:48:00.000-08:00

It was recently brought to my attention that someone created a casting for a "Trey Songz" music video, stating that I was doing the makeup for his new upcoming music video. The casting is on Craigslist and a few other websites. I found it really odd when a few makeup artist called to assist me on the music video, so I went to my friend Google and saw a few sites with this casting, http://actorsconnect.com/content/view/643763/76/. The casting was stolen from an actual casting that was put out my hip hop artist Daze,http://gsdworldwide.squarespace.com/ While I wish that it was a fact that I was working with Trey Songz I can tell you that it isn’t. I’m not sure what was supposed to be gained by this but craigslist has been informed and has removed it. From what I hear things like this happen all the time I just don’t want my name to be tainted by someone’s spam. I’m sorry for any of you that might have been misinformed.

On a more positive note take a look at an actual music video that I worked now and it is now being shown on Vh1, MTV online. I'm sure a lot of you gentlemen can relate....

MTV http://www.mtvmusic.com/artist/murat_rob/videos/445099/dilemma_remix_

 VH1 & AOL Music http://video.aol.co.uk/video-detail/rob-murat-dilemma-remix-10/634445515

BONUS: Behind-the-scenes footage from the video shoot:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L2NgaX92hy4

Peeper Primer

2009-10-30T11:31:00.000-07:00

Eye Contact solution used to keep eye shadow is the new Buzz in Self Magazine! Check out my tip just click on the image for a better view

Fake It

2009-10-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

Fashion can be trendy and full of unexpected trends. There has to be something that takes us from all these changes and sticks to us as our stapled items. For me this season it was Benefits, ooh la lift.

From waking up for an early call time to giving the models an instant eye opener after being up at the fashion parties. This product is amazing it contains raspberry extracts and light reflecting pigments. When paired with Erase Paste it gives you the ultimate coverage. Erase Paste really lives up to its name. It instantly erases those dark circles.

Erase Paste has the perfect undertone to brighten your eye area up.

We can’t always get the sleep we need it’s good to know we can FAKE IT! Lol

Beauty Questions

2009-10-05T07:18:00.000-07:00

As a lot of you might know I work with L'Oreal on beauty events. While on tour with them at Color Space I was interview on a few questions on skin and makeup. Color Space is wonderful set up where women come in and get consultations on there proper skincare, makeup, fondation matching, hair color, and proper hair care. I have included the interview by Teri Cosenzi. I think that you will find a lot of your beauty questions answered by me and a few other consultants. Check it out, Beauty Questions by L'Oreal consultants

Making the Cut

2009-09-18T19:34:00.000-07:00

Ever since I could remember, I have always loved anything that had to
do with glamour. When I was young, I would play with my dolls hair.
I would always try new hairstyles, and I remember doing flats twist,
putting tiny plastic butterflies in it, and braiding among other
styles. Like most people, my hair has always been something that has
taken lots of hours of my time. When I was old enough to dye my hair,
that took place of styling it. I experimented with hair colors
ranging from blonde, black, red, highlighted. The one thing that has
always been consecutive has been the length of my hair: very long,
like a modern-day Rapunzel.

I’m pretty sure that a lot of other women can relate to hair being a
big part of who they are. It is a constant worry of ours, from color,
graying, and finding the right cut. As women, we build a special
relationship with our hair. Some of us like the feeling of it, and it
soothes us if we play with it, and some of us touch our hair when we
are nervous.

My friend Christian Sanchez , a talented hairstylist, is sometimes too busy for me had me
wait for a haircut longer than usual. With me having so much hair, it
became a bit heavy. Still with my long hair, I decided to flat iron
it. It was longer than I actually thought it was. That was when I
decided that I was not just going to cut a few new layers--I wanted to
donate!

I started researching online and discovered “Locks of Love" and
“Beautiful Lengths.” A friend informed me that “Locks of Love” charges
their clients for the hair pieces. After playing good cop, I found a
few articles that confirmed this, and I decided to go with Pantene's
“Beautiful Lengths,” a non profit organization that focuses on
creating free wigs for women with cancer.

Think about how much time during the day you reach out to your hair
and how much it is a part of you. It takes 6 ponytails to make a wig.
One of Pantene’s requirements is cutting 8 inches. I donated 10
inches cut about 12 inches with tweaking. While it was a drastic
change for me, it will also help change how a women see’s and feels
about herself. It is definitely something I would do again.

Donate at Pantene Beautiful Lenghts!

A new Solution

2009-08-01T10:32:00.000-07:00

Who would have thought that ReNu contact solution would help keep your eye shadow intact? I accidentally stumbled upon this solution when I played around with colored contact lenses. When I applied eye shadow with the contact solution, the colors looked much more intense. I wondered why, so I did a sample swatch in my hand of the eye shadow alone and the eye shadow with the ReNu underneath. The results made me see makeup in a different way.

I noticed that the color was noticeably more vibrant with the shadow that had the solution. I then took my finger along both colors to see if it would run off. The swatch with the solution had less transfer on my finger. One of the ingredients in ReNu solution is Sodium chloride (aka salt), as some of you may know salt retains water. From my studies as an esthetician and experience, this made sense in why the solution keeps the eye shadow from moving. Usually your eye shadow starts to wear off when your eyelids become oily. The sodium chloride in the solutions helps to lock in moisture and helps the eye shadow staying power on your eyelids. Try this tip by with this simple application:

1. Start of using a synthetic brush—like a concealer brush—and dip it into the solution.
2. Simply sweep a thin application of the solution across the lid.
3. Then, select your eye shadow colors and start off your normal application.

This tip will be feauture in other publication like Family Circle in October and Blogs

More to come..

Fatta a Mano

2009-07-27T11:03:00.000-07:00

It seems we are always chasing for that summer bronzed look. I definitely have my favorites when it comes to bronzers and I just added another one to the shelf. I happened to have a L'Oreal crushed mineral bronzer that was a little light for me and another bronzer from Chanel that was to dark for me. My Chanel bronzer broke on me and I just could not find it in my heart to throw it out. So, instead of throwing it out I added it to my crushed mineral bronzer. I started by breaking my Chanel bronzer even further down all the way down to the fineness of a loose powder. I then blended both together and pressed it down. The results a nice shade of a loose powdered bronzer. The mineral in it makes it a little more shimmery so you do have to be careful how you use it. That's me above with my new bronzer. I call it Fatta a Mano.

Which way to Wonderland ?

2009-07-01T07:40:00.000-07:00

Even though I have pretty much a full book, I always like to add new things and switch out with the old in my portfolio. It's important to know that you’re never really done with your book. The important thing is to find a solid team that sees your vision and is just as passionate as you.

Disney has always intrigued me not just because of their creativity and entertainment but their availability to take old folk stories and turn them into magic. Alice in Wonderland is a children's novel written by Lewis Carroll (Charles Lutwidge Dodgson). I find it to be well written and to play logic in a way that is not usually seen. So, I shared my ideas with trusted photographers and team. One day Photographer Bartek Radwan emailed me and said, "Are you still interested in shooting Alice in Wonderland." UMMM YEAA! They had an amazing clothing designed by the talented Dagmara Dziedzic. She had designed teacup headbands and a dress with a deck of cards. AMAZING! The best thing of all is an online magazine picked it up. That’s always a great surprise.

This is an example of how testing can benefit your book especially when you have an amazing team.

Here is a sample for you’re viewing but please visit the publication at http://www.c-heads.com/ issue 16.

When in ...Baltimore MD

2009-06-20T21:24:00.000-07:00

I have worked with Alex Raskin on a lot of projects including short films and commercial specs. The latest thing is creating an HD video for the, "National Museum of Dentistry." The media has set a permanent home there. Read more about at http://primehd.com/smithsonian_nmd.htm.

Creating the look for this particular shoot had its challenges in where the shoot was very tight on the face. Therefore the skin had to look flawless yet effortless. Creating "Natural makeup" is sometimes harder then more dramatic makeups. After the skin is flawless not just to the naked eye but on camera you then have to add dimension to the face so it doesn't look flat. For example, giving the model cheekbones can make a difference some color back on the cheeks. Shooting in HD is no joke you see things not even your eyes can, not pretty.

If you ever find yourself there take a picture for me lol

Summer in NY

2009-06-08T23:04:00.000-07:00

Now that you have played with your new summer looks go out and have some fun!

Ongoing Events

Central Park Presents: SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK: Twelfth Night

June 10 – July 12

Delacorte Theater

Mid-Park at 80th Street

This summer kicks off with a powerhouse production of one of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies. The Public

welcomes Academy Award Nominee Anne Hathaway as she makes her Public Theater debut playing Viola, one of

the canon’s most charming heroines. This beguiling comedy follows the romantic adventures of Viola and her

identical twin Sebastian, both shipwrecked in the enchanted dukedom of Illyria. At the helm of this time-honored

story of cross-dressing and mistaken identity, all in the name of love, is Tony Award winning Director Daniel

Sullivan.

Tickets: FREE tickets to Shakespeare in the Park are distributed on the day of the performance beginning at 1PM at

The Delacorte Theater in Central Park. The closest entrances to the Delacorte are at 81st Street and Central Park

West or 79th Street and Fifth Avenue. There is a limit of 2 tickets per person. While the majority of free tickets for

Shakespeare in the Park are distributed via the free line at the Delacorte Theater, a limited number of tickets will be

available the day of each performance online beginning June 10 through our general and Senior virtual lines. People

are chosen at random, not in the order requests are received.

For more information, visit the website: http://www.publictheater.org/content/view/126/219/

Central Park Presents: SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK: The Bacchae

August 11 – August 30

Delacorte Theater

Mid-Park at 80th Street

JoAnne Akalaitis returns to The Public Theater to present Greek tragedy as it was always meant to be seen – in the

open air of the city. This visionary interpretation, featuring a lush choral score by Philip Glass, re-imagines the

classic story about what happens when a government attempts to outlaw desire.

Tickets: FREE tickets to Shakespeare in the Park are distributed on the day of the performance beginning at 1PM at

The Delacorte Theater in Central Park. The closest entrances to the Delacorte are at 81st Street and Central Park

West or 79th Street and Fifth Avenue. There is a limit of 2 tickets per person. While the majority of free tickets for

Shakespeare in the Park are distributed via the free line at the Delacorte Theater, a limited number of tickets will be

available the day of each performance online beginning June 10 through our general and Senior virtual lines. People

are chosen at random, not in the order requests are received.

For more information, visit the website: http://www.publictheater.org/content/view/126/219/

New York Classical Theater presents King Lear by William Shakespeare

Central Park at West 103rd Street and Central Park West

Thursday through Sunday, May 28 - June 21 at 7:00 pm

Battery Park (meet at Castle Clinton)

June 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30 and July 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 at 7:00 pm

New York Classical Theatre's mission is to reinvigorate and create audiences for the theatre by presenting free

productions of popular classics and forgotten masterpieces in non-traditional public spaces throughout New York

City. Throughout the performance, the audience follows the actors from place to place, as the plot unfolds from

scene to scene. In this way, the spectators become active participants in the drama itself. Site-specific productions

are adapted to showcase the unique visual components of each venue through innovate design and choreograhic

elements.

King Lear: A king confronting his own mortality. Three daughters' love and loyalty are tested. As his kingdom is

torn apart by war, he nears the edge of sanity. Can he learn to see through the tempest in his mind?

http://www.newyorkclassical.org/current.php

New York Classical Theater presents The School for Husbands by Moliere

Central Park at West 103rd Street and Central Park West

Thursday through Sunday, July 30 – August 23 at 7:00 pm

New York Classical Theatre's mission is to reinvigorate and create audiences for the theatre by presenting free

productions of popular classics and forgotten masterpieces in non-traditional public spaces throughout New York

City. Throughout the performance, the audience follows the actors from place to place, as the plot unfolds from

scene to scene. In this way, the spectators become active participants in the drama itself. Site-specific productions

are adapted to showcase the unique visual components of each venue through innovate design and choreograhic

elements.

The School for Husbands: Does a "sure thing" really exist? A fifty year-old bachelor is convined he will marry his

ward - but she has other ideas! Young and rebellious, she finds a lover but must teach him how to become a

husband. Will her lessons pay off?

http://www.newyorkclassical.org/current.php

HBO Bryant Park Summer Film Festival 2009

The Sting

Monday, June 15, 2009

Bryant Park, bet 40th & 42nd Streets and 6th Ave

Robert Redford, Paul Newman and director George Roy Hill generate high-voltage chemistry in this light-hearted

yet complex, overtly nostalgic look at 1930’s Chicago con men. Winner of seven Oscars and featuring the famous

Scott Joplin piano rags. (1973) 129 Min. (Universal)

The lawn opens at 5:00pm for blankets (no plastic tarps please) and picnicking. The films begin at dusk (typically

between 8pm and 9pm).

Summer Film Festival – Mondays at Bryant Park

Lower Manhattan Cultural Council presents SITELINES

Celebrating its 5th anniversary, Sitelines 2009, Lower Manhattan Cultural Council's annual site-specific dance

performance series, brings to life a highly energized program of provocative dance, set to inspiring imagery and

exquisite surroundings.

http://www.lmcc.net/art/programs/2009/sitelines/index.html

Battery Dance Company’s Downtown Dance Festival

August 15 – August 22

Location: Battery Park

The 28th Annual Downtown Dance Festival invites audiences to enjoy nine days of ethnic, classical and

contemporary dance from around the world.

http://www.batterydance.org/

Madison Square Reads

June 11 – August 6

Madison Square Park (5th Avenue & 23rd Street), at the foot of the Farragut Monument

Thursdays at 6:30pm

Mad. Sq. Reads is the Madison Square Park Conservancy’s free outdoor reading series. Each program lasts about

one hour. Books are sold at the readings courtesy of Borders.

See website for schedule: http://www.madisonsquarepark.org/Programs/MadSqReads.aspx

Central Park – Harlem Meer Social Hour

Tuesdays, monthly, 6:30pm – 8pm

Location: the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center (located inside Central Park on 110th Street between Lenox and

Fifth Avenues)

Are you looking for an after-work pick-me-up that takes you away from the crowded bars and restaurants of New

York City? Join us for a fresh alternative to the tired old happy hour scene at the Harlem Meer Social Hour, the

Central Park Conservancy’s monthly series for adults. Each month, the Conservancy hosts a different evening

program on a seasonal or interesting topic. Plenty of time is included for mingling over refreshments.

http://www.centralparknyc.org/site/PageNavigator/events_HarlemMeerSocialHour

Midsummer Night Swing at Lincoln Center

Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers

New Orleans Jazz, Swing

Tuesday July 7, 2009

6:30pm at Damrosch Park (62nd Street between Columbus and Amsterdam)

With a knowing grin on his face and a smile in his voice, Kermit Ruffins kicks off the season with New Orleans

flair. The trumpeter/vocalist and his band are sure to thrill with their unique sense of smokin’ swing.

Dance lesson at 6:30pm; live music at 7:30pm

Tickets are available for $15 if you prefer to dance on the stage, but there is plenty of the room on the plaza to

dance for free.

Hudson River Park: Stars of Tomorrow

Jazz from THE NEW SCHOOL FOR JAZZ AND CONTEMPORARY MUSIC

6:30 pm, Every Tuesday, June 2 – August 18, except June 30

Hudson River Park’s Pier 45 at Christopher St.

Enjoy music from Bach to BeBop on Tuesday nights, as students from the New School for Jazz and Contemporary

Music and Mannes College The New School for Music perform on one of Hudson River Park’s most beautiful piers.

Performances begin on June 2nd.

http://www.hudsonriverpark.org/

CityParks Concerts

Hector Tricoche y Su Orquesta

Bronx: St Mary’s Park (146th Street and St. Ann's Avenue)

7:00pm – 8:30pm, July 7th

CityParks Concerts bring the music New Yorkers love right into their neighborhood parks. CityParks Concerts is

proud to present top musical acts including Grammy award-winning R&B singer Chrisette Michele, salsa sensation

Frankie Negron, popular “experimental” band Man Man, and gospel music sensation and Grammy Award-winning

pastor of Brooklyn’s Love Fellowship Tabernacle, Hezekiah Walker. City Parks Foundation is also welcoming back

the fan favorites hip-hop group Naughty By Nature, KRS-One, and Slick Rick.

http://www.cityparksfoundation.org/index1.aspx?BD=20011

River To River: Scanner & Mountains

Tuesday July 7, 9:00pm

World Financial Center Winter Garden

Scanner composes multi-layered sonic pieces that traverse the experimental terrain between sound and form.

Mountains create hypnotic soundscapes by blending electronic noise and acoustic instruments.

www.ArtsWorldFInancialCenter.com

phone: 212.945.0505

http://www.rivertorivernyc.com/

Two more events I love movies with a view. As seen above HBO sponser oldies in Bryant Park. You could also watch movies outside at the Hudson river and Brooklyn Bridge. If your feeling really adventuros you can head to Jersey.

http://gonyc.about.com/od/summer/a/river_flicks.htm

http://www.brooklynbridgepark.org/index.cfm?objectid=EF670B44-3048-2C77-F20C2202337458ED

http://www.freshairflicks.com/events.php

If you would like a full 2009 city events email me your address.

XOXO

Source: www.maishadang.com

Summer Nights

2009-06-08T15:10:00.000-07:00

In addition to summer looks, as mentioned in the prior post, I thought I would share with you an evening look. Read the previous blog entry on “summer looks” for some tips on prepping your skin.

With this look, start with the eyes. This way, if any eye shadow falls on your face, you do not have to re-apply your makeup completely. When doing a smoky eye I like to use loose powder underneath the eyes so, it catches any eye shadow that falls. (Catch All method) When you are done applying your eye shadow you can dust off the powder using a powder brush, try MAC #109 small contour brush. The brush is big enough to dust off and small enough to get around your eye area. Now there are some decisions you must make before about what finish you want for your skin. With this look I want the skin to be dewy and fresh. So, instead of using the "catch all" method I will leave the skin bare in till I'm done with eyes. You can then start with your makeup primer I like "Embryolisse" it acts as a primer, moisturizer, and cleanser. Kind of like a modern cold cream.

1.   First, start with a base on the eyes. Use a color that is close
to your complexion. Laura Mercier makes good bases called “Eye
Basics.”

2.   This look could be described as a Smokey eye even though I did
not use any black. The color you see in the outer corner of her eye
is a matte navy blue.

3.   On the lid, I used a shimmery green eye shadow.

4.   Then, I applied a light ivory shadow starting from the inner
corner of the eye and brought it up right underneath the brows. I like to use Make Up For Ever "Star powder" the colors that look white all shimmer into a different shade. Try #940.

5.   I lined the model’s eyes, both and top of her eyelid along the water line with a black kohl pencil with Make UP For Ever Kohl liner.

6.   For the final touch, I took a eye liner brush and applied black
cream eyeliner along the lash line, dragging it upwards at the ends to
form a bit of a “cat eye.” L'Oreal HIP cream eyeliner in black works great. They also come in fun colors like eggplant, and blue.

7.   For the cheeks, you can’t go wrong with Nars “Orgasm.” Dust lightly across your cheeks and gradually add color.

8.   Finally, I completed the look with a dab of L’Oreal Color Juice in
Carmel Crème over a pinky-nude lip liner.

Now that you have some ideas on your new summer looks go out and show it off. Read "Summer in NY" for fun free or cheap summer events.

Have Fun and look GEORGEOUS!

Credits:

Photographer: Amy Dunn

Model: Catherina

Websites to check out:

http://www.embryolisseusa.com/

http://www.amydunn.com/blog/

Summer Looks

2009-05-29T22:19:00.001-07:00

With summer right around the corner I find it only appropriate we talk about summer makeup. A trend we just can't kick in the butt is neon. We are also seeing this when it comes to makeup. Of course I feed right into this trend my latest lip-gloss is Chanel glossimer in #37 Erotic it’s a hot vibrant pink. The new line of glossimers features many different vibrant smooth non-sticky glosses. I'm going to talk about two looks for summer one I like to call " Go Nude” the other "Summer Splash"

Go Nude is your beach sun kissed look. This look is all about skin. I personally love looking tan. It just makes you look healthy and livelier.

First you want to make sure your skin looks and feels healthy.

PREPPING

Start of by hydrating your skin with a moisturizer. Try Mac Strobe Cream for a quick wake up, Kiehl's ultra moisturizer or Embryolisse "miracle cream." Underneath your eyes use Smashbox Photo op under eye brightener to brighten underneath your eyes and also helps your concealer not look cakey.

Every good application starts out with a good Foundation

Start your makeup application with a concealer only where you need it, underneath your eyes, nose area, and maybe a blemish. I like using my finger tips to warm up the product and instead of rubbing use more of a patting motion. You can then begin applying a tinted moisturizer. A foundation brush will give you an easy application start of by your nose and brush outwards and downwards. Some of my favorites included Giorgio Armani's Summer foundation, Tarte Tinted Moisturizer, Beauty Addicts tinted moisturizer. You can lightly dust a setting powder to add longevity especially where you used concealer.

Cheeks: Use a bronzer on checks in places you would naturally get sun kissed. Nose to the forehead and then temples to cheeks. You can also use a peachy or pinky color just in the apple of your cheeks to give your face dimension.

An easy product you can use to give you that glow look is Tarte's cheek stain; blushing bride can give you a subtle pink glow. Bronzed Goddess gives you a summer glow.

No ones face is one color so using a foundation to even skin tone can look unnatural if you don't give it some color back.

Eyes: Deepening on the occasion you could use a flesh tone eye shadow, for more of a pop. I like to use a yellow or gold toned on the eyelid with a little shimmer. Then follow with a brown , green (chanel's W/P in Celadon is great) or black liner along the Lash line. Then follow with Mascara.

Lips: Nude lip-gloss in Dior's 317 or L'Oreal's color juice in cafe Latte are two great lip colors.

Summer Splash

A pop of color never hurt anyone. It's summer have fun! You could follow the same steps you did for skin with, "Go Nude”. Now for color you could pick two features a nice fast easy way is cheeks and lips. Adding some cheek color and a bright lip-gloss is fun and easy. Just make sure to stay in similar color families.

Example: Chanel’s Gloss in Erotica with Chanel’s Pinched Pink blush

These are examples of some of summer colors.

At the far left on top is some fun shadows form Mac

In the middle are three blushes,

Right Dior bronze: Spice dessert

Middle Mac's new "Style Warrior" line: Eversun beauty powder

Left: Mac Fun and Games (Hello Kitty limited edition)

Bottom right lip colors: Mac's Popsters

Make Up For Ever: super gloss #22

Mac: Wet Wild & Wonderful

Dior: 317

Chanel: Erotic

Far right Giorgio Armani summer foundation

Credits :

Photographer: Amy Dunn

Models: Amber, Samantha

Tribeca Film Festival

2009-05-28T10:36:00.000-07:00

For a few years now I have been part of L'Oreal’s Pro team. With them I have met a lot of people and made great friends along the way. I love working events with them I always feel like I have helped someone or made them feel better. I get to work magic on people that are not use to getting made up and teach them something that you know they will appreciate it. This year I worked with L'Oreal at the press center for Tribeca Film Festival. For me it was an amazing opportunity because of my love for independent films. Meeting the directors, producers and actors was fun and exciting getting to hear about the new films and the excitement that comes from being in that environment. Some of the faces here you might recognize I have to say I was blown away by how down to earth they were. Some of the directors that normally are behind the camera really appreciate the pampering and learning new things. The actors, producers, directors would come by and visit us before getting there portraits taken by Getty Images or before interviews and get makeup and hair touch up. Some of our attendees were so happy to have someone or somewhere they can ease their nerves that they made appointments with us before their big screenings.

All the makeup used on everyone was L'Oreal featuring the infallible lipsticks and the new Double Extend lash, beauty tube technology.

These two products are amazing the first one is the, Infallible lipstick it will not come off till you take it off. The only thing that will help break down the color is oil so do be careful if you are eating salads you might have to reapply. The product is nicely packaged with the first step being the color and the second being a lip conditioner to reapply as often as you may. The container also has a mirror making your application nice and easy.

L'Oreal's Double Extend beauty tube technology is mascara that coats each lash and literally wraps around the lash giving them length. It has two steps you apply the white side first and then the color. At the end of the day when you are ready to clean off your makeup it will come off with warm water and you will see the tubes in your sink. Amazing! In that aspect its great to just wash off your makeup but I have to say my favorite from L'Oreal is still Voluminous Mascara!

Most foundations used for the attendees were L'Oreal's true match cream compact or True Match liquid foundation with matching concealers and finally set with setting powder ranges in light to dark.

For eyes a big hit was browns, greens, and plums. Try HIP shadow duos in Riotous, Cheeky, Bustling, and, Flare all fun colors for summer.

This is a combo I love

- Start of using the L'Oreal HIP eye shadow paints in commanding this cream base formula will give u a nice base and help your shadows stay on longer.

- Then use HIP Shocking pigment on top in either Unashamed (plum with gold) or Visionary (goldish color) they are both amazing colors.

Restless is also a good all over color or to highlight underneath your brows. Start of in the inner corner of the eye and bring it underneath your brows and brush out.

- Finalize your look with one of the HIP cream eyeliners.

Lip Colors: I used a lot of Color Riche lipsticks and the NEW Presso lip-gloss duo from the HIP line.

Want bright juicy lips? Try Colour Juice in Raspberry Smash or Candy Apple!

They colors mention above can be used in place of some of the colors mention in "Summer Looks"

Stay Gorgeous and have fun playing!

Anna Chlumsky

Nancy La Scale

Racheal Evan Wood

Henry Cavill

Cecile Cassel

Gray Coleman

Thomas Haden Church

Micheal Jai White

Elisabeth Shue

Sam Rockwell

& Duncan Jones

Melissa Leo

Emma Caulfeild

Picking at you

2009-05-27T09:51:00.001-07:00

There are some things that you just don't do. I have a few pet peeves when it comes to makeup

1. Makeup Artist that blow on there brushes and then dust that brush on your face.

It might be the way that I was trained from the beginning but I never blow on brushes. My instructor was such a hag for that but I thank her. If she ever saw any of us blow on a brush we would have to do a full shampoo on that bad boy.

2. Double Dipping... Anything close to your eye or mouth should never be cross contaminated.

You think the brush was bad she would make us throw the product out if we double dipped.

3. Ladies it is no longer in style please don't do it, dark liner and frosty silvery lipstick.

-Tip: The way to use a lip liner properly is by choosing a color close to your lip color like a Nude Pink. Something else you can do is chose a color close to the lipstick or gloss. Its purpose is to define the lips and to keep the lip colors from bleeding.

4. Black liquid liner followed with white liner on top. All I have to say is Why?

Don't get me wrong I love a cat eye just the white liner against the black is very harsh and is not doing anything to make your eyes bigger or more defined.

5. Not washing mascara off and then clumping more on top of it the next day. This is a nice way to call for a pink eye.

6. Raccoon eyes, I have seen ladies use something really light under the eyes to get rid of the darkness.

I know that covering dark circles can be tricky.

Tip: If you have discoloration underneath your eyes you should color correct first and then conceal with a color that matches your skin tone.

For Example, if you have a lot of green underneath you should use a reddish cream base and then use concealer.

If you need a consultation on proper concealer and foundations for your skin tone and type feel free to contact me.

In the Spring we see fall/ Get the Look

2009-05-19T22:16:00.000-07:00

This spring I had the privilege of keying Tamara Pogosian Fall 09' fashion show makeup look.

Tamara Pogosian inspiration came from Tamara Limpicka Art Deco Paintings. A take on 30s and 40s with a modern twist. It had a very CLASSY, BOLD and SEXY look.

First lets talk about what women's makeup looked like in this era.

- Brows were kept thin and looked like a sad smile.

- Eyes were very contoured and defined.

- Face was contoured slightly with blush this was to keep the face sculpted yet soft and feminine

- Lips were a pink, or red tone usually matte.

When using an era in this case also paintings as references it comes with a lot of research. Keep in mind that they are just inspirations and in no way should be a replication unless you want a more literal and costume look.

I will take you step by step to come up with this modernized look.

The Canvas

-Skin in contrast to the reference was more dewy. I wanted skin that was not so powdered down and had a slight more dewy finish.

- Highlight and Contouring important then important now. After you contour and sculpt the face I used a Pink on the apples of the cheek bones. ( Tickled Tarte, # 8 Make Up For Ever, Rose Patel Chanel)

The highlight should only be where light naturally touches to make those areas pop.

-Darker shade is used to give the appearance of more sculpted cheek bones or jaw line.

The EYES, are a window to your soul.

I typically even when doing a more natural look I like making the eyes pop!

For the eyes,

-Start of with a taupe all over lid and bottom as your base (Nervy, Cream Shadow Paint L’Oreal)

- Use a black pencil along lash line top and bottom and smoke it out by blending it with dark brown shadow and black shadow if needed to create depth. What you want to create is a fade with darkest point being closest to the lash line. You also don't want to forget to line the inside of the eye.

- You want to fade it outwards creating a slight cat eye. So bottom should go upward to connect with top

-On inner lid you can add a champagne shimmer powder to create a metallic look. (Star powder in #940 Make Up For Ever)

-Highlight under brow (pearly white cream pencil Mac, or just a shimmering sheer white powder works darker skin use more of a nude) and BLEND!!

-False lashes were used to create this look. I used mostly strips you can add a few individuals to the strips to create that subtle cat eye look. Thin liquid liner can be added to create this as well. You can always tame it down and use mascara but lashes are just so much fun!

Fill in top and bottom inner rim for darkest point.

-Brows are very clean and filled in.

LIPS

I used a smooth Red waterproof liner (Make Up For Ever) a red lip balm on top (L'Oreal HIP Jelly Balm, Delectable)

Special thanks to Stephanie Flor and Alexandra Andrade that helped me make this fashion show come to life!

Here are some images from the post photo shoot to the show creating the same look for Tamara's Look Book .

I hope you guys enjoy and have fun creating the look.

Credits:

Stephen HurStarts Photographer

Sarah Kim Haistylist/ Look book

Beauty school drop out

2009-05-07T22:53:00.001-07:00

Hey Everyone,

I feel a proper introduction is in need, so after hearing how beneficial it is to blog, twitter, (still don't see the point), and facebook. I decided to give blog a chance, why not I gave everything else a go. Another reason is I constantly get question on tips and tricks. Stay tuned!

As you all may know I'm a working makeup artist although I didn't always know this was my passion. I have always had a love for different types of art and for that matter anything that was creative. While growing up I would draw in notepads, napkins, I would mostly draw gowns to no surprise I decided to go to college for fashion design. Not completely satisfied I left and became a beauty school drop out. I went to school for makeup. I was so excited about it. Till this day I have to say it was one of those moments that changed my life and was so exciting.

While I attend makeup school and finally feeling like something felt right my current part time job as a sales associate in a clothing store finished. I broke up with my high school boyfriend and yet I was completely in love with the art of makeup and all it's possibilities it held. My last day at school, they had a photo shoot for us. At the time I was naive in how to obtain a model but we were told we could use ourselves. The pictures served as a headshot and my first business card. My look was a Smokey eye, and lashes more then I have ever done. I was going to go on a first date and I felt like I had way too much makeup on. It's so funny to me now cause it really wasn't a lot of makeup. My date that night was so happy to hear my passion for this new found love. He said, "I have never heard someone speak so passionate about something, you should definitely do this at all cost even if it's not the norm." That was all I needed to hear someone say it's okay if you don't become a doctor or lawyer. 6 years later I'm still here! :-)

Being the over achiever that I am, I went back to college, while in college I also went to school and got my esthetician License. Makeup and Skin care really do go hand in hand. I have worked on numerous shows, shoots, and events and am very happy with my choices. I'm currently a freelance makeup artist for brands such as Chanel, Laura Mercier, and Pro Artist for L'Oreal.

With L'Oreal I have worked events such as Women Shaping the world, Tribeca Film Festival, Project Runway (Production side). I have also had some of my work published in Paper magazine. Most recently I also became a swing (on call) for Broadway's Mary Poppins.

For now Good Night!