Lip Service: Swoon Worthy Lipsticks for Fall 2015

Everyone knows just how much I love lipsticks. So I thought I would share with you the lipsticks that I am reaching for recently more and more this season. 

Wet n' Wild Mega Last Lipstick in Mocha-licious.These lip colours are semi-matte, glides on smoothly and are long wearing. This rich brown is lovely with almost any look and a staple in my makeup bag for sure.They retail here in Barbados for $10 bds in Imart. If you are in the USA drugstores sell them for a wallet friendly S1.99 usd.

 Milani Cosmetics Color Statement Lipstick in Sangria. Everyone that I have gabbed about lipstick to in the last 6 months knows that I have loved this lipstick shade and formula for ages. Deep berry color, semi-matte, comfortable to wear and pairs beautifully with gold tones. These can be found in many beauty stores and drugstores locally for around $15 bds.

Nsrriah Lipstick in Marcy (shown in the photo above). Marcy stole my heart as soon as I tried it on. It is a very deep plum that can be worn on its own or paired with a dark liner like Black Currant by MAC to make it even deeper and more sultry. This lipstick is gorgeous with both gold and silver tones. Every time I have worn it numerous people would stop me to find out what shade lipstick I was wearing. Long wearing yet moisturizing; this is certainly a winner. Available locally from Stylish Apparel in Sky Mall for $30 bds.

MAC Cosmetics Retro Matte Lipstick in Flat Out Fabulous. I refuse to put away my pinks and reds for this season. This shade is exceptionally beautiful and looks amazing on every complexion. Flat out Fabulous is a rich Fuschia shade with a very matte texture that ensures staying powder. Be sure to moisturize your lips before hand. An added benefit is because it is blue based it makes your teeth appear whiter! Everybody loves a life hack like that right?!

Sephora Cream Lip Stain in Always Red. Described on their website as a 'matte bold classic red'. It is everything it claims to be. I am now personally on my 3^rd tube of this lip stain. I remember when I was about to purchase my first one someone told me “it is the only red you need”; every time I apply it I hear those words in my mind and yes it could not be more true. It is the red of my dreams, dries to a matte finish that looks like velvet, comfortable to wear and the staying power is amazing. Obviously this lip colour and formula transcends all trends and seasons for me. It will always be a win. This product can be purchased Sephora's website for $14 usd.   

There you have it Beauties! My top lipstick picks for Fall 2015. What lippies are you swooning over right now?

Third Quarter Beauty Favorites!

Welcome to my quarterly favorites of the beauty world. I feel like this third quarter has come around with lightning speed. I thought I should mention all of the products mentioned were used in the above makeup look. Let's delve right into this! 

Queen Helene Mud Pack Masque was added to my skincare routine about 2 months ago and I'm absolutely loving it! Clay masks are fantastic for drawing toxins out of the skin. It certainly has improved the clarity and texture of my skin. I use it at least 3 times a week and when I wash it off my face feels soft and refreshed. 

 L.A. Girl Pro Conceal Corrector in Orange. I love this to help me cancel out darkness around my eyes. The orange tone adds a brightening effect to the area. As this corrector is very rich in tone I use a small amount at a time. 

NYX Micro Brow Pencil. Personally I prefer brow pencils on myself instead of gels for everyday use. They are less cumbersome and easy to use. This brow pencil comes in at a great price, with excellent utility of having a spoolie at the other end. Admittedly it doesn't have as much colour payoff as MAC brow pencils, however they are decent for the price and I love the fine lines that can be created with this micro pencil.

Sleek Makeup I-Divine Palette in Ultra V Matte Darks. As Fall inspired makeup looks have come around, makeup hues are leaning towards darker more sultry colours. This is one of my favorite eyeshadow palettes all year round but recently I have been reaching for it more and more. The formula is very pigmented and blendable. Plus you cannot go wrong with this collection of colours for this season. 

NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Cannes. I absolutely live for lip colours as you Beauties know. This has been my favorite nude lip colour to wear for these last three months. The formula of these lip creams is very comfortable on the lips. its buildable and this shade is gorgeous. 

NYX Blush in Copper. A friend put me onto this as a highlight. I. Am. In. Love. This blush right here looks so natural on me as a highlight. Admittedly a part of why I love this so much is because I can build it up as much as I want for a subtle sheen on the high points of my face to a full on glam glow. This colour also works well with other highlighters so I know it is going to be a staple in my makeup bag for a while. 

Crown Brush Flat Top Bronzer. If you did not know that I cannot live without bronzer before, well now you know. It is an essential part of my makeup routine. For a while I have been using a more tapered brush to apply bronzer however this brush has changed that whole application. The flat shape applies the bronzer evenly while the soft natural bristles ensure the finish is not too heavy. 

There you have it Beauties my favorite products for the third quarter of 2015. Stay tuned for my last post because I am already swooning over some fabulous new beauty goodies. 

xoxo

Dee

Fall 2015 Beauty Round Up!

I am so excited to bring to you Beauties some of my favorite picks for Fall 2015! Lucinda Robinson of Moden Makeup is a huge nail polish aficionado so it would be a crime not to have her collaborate and let you Beauties know her top nail polishes for Fall. We also have a makeup tutorial and the latest in lingerie from Adore me. Let's get right into this!

Press play to see my Fall 2015 makeup tutorial.

Top Five Fall Polish Shades

I know we don’t experience Fall in Barbados but you know I’m a fan of vampy lips and cooler weather. So when Dee asked me to do this collab I thought it was great idea. #TeamModen readers know I love dark manicures; emphasis on manicure since I rarely wear dark shades on my toes. Anyways, enough with the backdrop – you came here for polish.

Sally Hansen Hard As Nails Xtreme Wear ‘Coin Flip’

If you follow the nail polish collection trends, metallics are big every Fall. ‘Coin Flip’ has the advantage of being a pretty universal shade with ridiculously high shine. The absolute best thing about this range is that it’s inexpensive and readily available in Barbados. I got this from Collins.

Essie ‘Armed and Ready’

This dark green is giving a hint of somethin’ somethin’ with its gold micro shimmer that runs throughout. My current swatch doesn’t even do it justice; you gotta check out this manicure in the sun here. Essie polishes are also easy to get your hands on.

Orly ‘Coffee Break’

I’m a big fan of the Orly polish formula though I only have a hand full of them in my collection. ‘Coffee Break’ is a favourite because it’s a perfect nude for my complexion…and nude manicures are good in any season. I amped this one up by sealing it with O.P.I’s Matte top coat. Something about a flat, no shine finish to this manicure just makes it look even more sophisticated. Orly polishes can be found in iMart locations island wide.

Clinique A Different Nail Enamel ‘Black Honey’

The most infamous shade in all of Clinique’s history is ‘Black Honey’. I don’t know why but everything they make in this shade is just a fan favourite. This nail polish line is marketed as better for sensitive skins…I don’t know about all of that but what I do know is that the shine pay off on this polish is amazing! These retail for $42BDS in Cave Shepherd so I was initially a little sceptical but after the first coat I was a believer. Dark reds are also ever present in popular Fall nail polish collection releases. This shade stains so please use a good base coat.

RGB Cosmetics ‘Cobalt’

I saved the most expensive for last. RGB Cosmetics prides itself on being a ‘5 free’ nail polish brand. Available exclusively from Pure Source Barbados, they retail for $54BDS. Before you run for the hills check out the picture; that’s three coats with no top coat. ‘Cobalt’ is an inky blue that can stain your nails so wear a good base coat. If you prefer metallic formulas check out ‘Sea’ from this brand.

Be sure to let me know your favourite Fall shades are in the comments. I know I didn’t mention any burnt oranges so if you know of one you think I should check out fill me in.

Thanks again to Dee for having me!

Last but certainly not least, the brand new lingerie sets from Adore me! When they sent me photos of their Fall 2015 collection I fell in love with these dark emerald green sets.
 This rich colour coupled with exquisite lace is a must have for any of you Beauties to add to your collection. Simply head on over to Adoreme.com to view their collection.

Be sure to let me know what your favorite cosmetics, accessories and trends are for Fall 2015!
xoxo
Dee

Staying Inspired & Following Through: Suggestions from a Creative

Staying inspired is always a task for creatives. Our work takes a lot out of us. To interpret a vision in our head as best as possible and try to recreate it into something tangible that an onlooker/viewer can see with their own eyes and in some cases touch is no small task. However what happens when you are out of ideas or encounter that dreaded creative block? It is like being in limbo, in a space where inspiration is figuratively circling the drain. How does one break free of that space or prevent it from happening?

I have been in this suffocating uninspired space before and felt like I was in a huge rut. However with experience and reflection I realize there are things I can do to keep me inspired and excited about my art and business.

Before we go any further I want to remind you this is my personal experience. We are all individuals and what may work for me may not work entirely for you, but I do believe that I have some helpful points to share and look forward to opening up this discussion to all you creatives out there.

Be Aware

Many artists/creatives have been called dreamers; trust me this is a compliment to us. Sometimes we may literally just sit and daydream or 'tune out'. In our mind when this happens we are actually 'tuning in'. I try to be aware of what's happening around me; be it a beautiful sunset, a particular colour combination in a flower or how a specific song makes me feel. Be aware of the little things. I am not a neurological expert, but what I do know is when you make those conscious impressions on your brain it gives your creative energy something to feed on or draw from. You never know when something you take note of will serve you well.

Record

While we take notice of certain things that we may find beautiful, interesting or inspiring it is pivotal that we not rely solely on our own memory. This is an area quite a few of us lack in. We must record in some way when we are inspired whether it is by writing, voice recording or even video. What triggered this? Why? How did it make you feel? Be as sensory as possible. Documenting as much information as possible makes it easier to recreate this inspiration later. It helps our brain to relive that moment more clearly.

Be Organized

When you have decided what you want to create with the inspiration you have and also recorded, go on to set time lines for development and deadlines for completion. This gives our vision some focus. No matter what we are embarking on having these goals in place is very important so we know what we are working towards.

Be Kind to Yourself

We can always find something we could have improved on. Being overly critical of our own work just comes with the territory but try hard to fight against that. Note points to focus on improving on for future projects and move forward. When you have finished your project, admire your work and be proud of it. It is a manifestation that just started with a feeling and that is something amazing.

There you have it folks! Applying these four things have helped me to keep my creative engine fueled and also follow through on inspiration. It has also helped with anxiety regarding work and various projects. It is a beautiful world out there and we have the wonderful opportunity to 'tune in' and interpret that in our own unique ways.

What keeps you inspired? Any tips for us? Looking forward to your comments!

Until next time,

xoxo

Dee

Make the Most of Your Makeup: Sanitize!

This is a ritual your professional artist should know all too well. Makeup kits have to be sanitized after every job to ensure our makeup is hygienic and safe from contamination for all clients. Most people see the high importance of this practice for pros but what about you consumers and makeup aficionados? 

I have realized quite a few people do not think it is necessary to sanitize their own makeup. It is people! Here's a couple reasons why:-

1) When you do not sanitize your own makeup for example pressed powder products; with every use of a sponge or brush on this product, you are transferring oils from your skin onto your product. Oils essentially turn into dirt eventually and furthermore bacteria. Have you ever noticed your pressed powder foundation has a smooth crust on the top? That is a build up of those oils. Although this is your own personal product you can cause breakouts especially if you are acne prone. 

2) Regularly sanitizing your makeup increases their shelf life! Freshening your makeup helps to restore your products enabling you to get the most and best use out of them. 

"What do you use to sanitize?", I can hear some of you asking...

.

My spray of choice is one called Beauty So Clean. It sanitizes makeup in ten short seconds; simple mist directly on the product holding bottle about 6 inches away and wait till it is dry before closing. 

1) For those products that have a film or crust over them simple scrape the top part off gently with a spatula or spoon  Then spray the sanitizing mist on it and wait 10 seconds for it to dry. 

2) Have a routine or set day for your makeup sanitizing. I try to do it at lease once a week however in all honesty it is usually every two weeks. 

Unfortunately I have not found this spray locally in Barbados so I stock up when I travel. It is totally worth it and very necessary. 

Thank you as always for all of your article requests and suggestions! Have a wonderful week Beauties and don't forget to subscribe to this blog so you are notified when new posts are up!

xoxo

Dee

Current Favorites: April to June 2015

Press play on the video below to watch my April to June favorites! See what products I have been reaching for over and over and why I love them so much. 

Hope you like the video. Please don't forget to send your requests by commenting on the video or on this blog.

xoxo

Dee

Make the Most of Your Makeup: Pressed Eye shadows!

Rich, shimmery, creamy, glittery....I could go on and on with describing that addictive little cosmetic called eyeshadow; pressed shadows to be exact. Every makeup lover confesses they have to many and never enough. For many of you Beauties this is your favorite part of makeup application.
From simply using it to even out dark eye lids to an alluring smoky eye to complex works of art. Eye shadow can be used on many different levels to add to your makeup look.
There are a few ways you can get your bang for your buck with these cosmetic gems. Continue reading to see how you can get the most out of your eye shadows.

1) Soft Brows. Take a synthetic angled brush to a matte rich dark brown shadow and lightly use it to fill in sparse areas in the eyebrows. This can look very natural and soft if you are going for a natural look or if your brows are already defined but only need a light fill in.

2) Blush. Whether matte or shimmery, some eye shadows can actually double as blush. Some are so pretty and have such a blend-able texture it is practically a crime not to use them in this way. My personal favorites are reds, oranges and deep pinks. Simply use a fluffy blush brush to apply the colour to the cheeks for a nice diffused wash of (blush) eyeshadow on that cheek area.

3) Matte red lips are contemporary and will always in style. I cannot think of any reason a red lipstick lover would not have a matte red lipstick in her makeup collection but just in case you only have a satin finish......matte red eye shadow to the rescue! Apply your lipstick. Take a spatula, butter knife or spoon and gently scape the top of the matte red shadow to get some of that shadow loose. Use a flat eyeshadow brush to apply the shadow to your lips in a patting technique. This will not only mattify that satin lipstick, it will make it bolder and more long wearing by setting that lipstick!

What are some outside of the box ways you like to use pressed shadow! Comment, message, share...I wanna know!!

xoxo
Dee

Lip Service: Guide to Lip Prep

 Lip looks are having a major beauty moment. With the rise in super matte liquid lipsticks, new glosses and liners on the market; lip products are selling like hotcakes and bold lips are very requested by makeover clients. They are a win for me because focusing on perfecting the skin and a bold lip colour is effortless and saves time when you're in a rush. I love lipsticks, always have and always will; so lip care is very important. Here are my top tips for priming and aftercare of your lips to ensure you have a beautiful lipstick/gloss application and healthy happy lips!

1) Exfoliate. I am sure you have heard me say this a million time. Yes, take 2 seconds to gently remove those dead skin cells off your lips. To do this run your toothbrush over your lips for a couple seconds after brushing your teeth. It will result in smooth healthy lips that allows lipstick and lip gloss to be applied beautifully.

2) Moisturize. Use your favorite lip balm after exfoliation to soften your lips and add that moisture that those ultra matte lipsticks absorb. I prefer to use formulas that are not medicated because they can be drying. I look for organic simple lip moisturizers that contain ingredients like shea butter and jojoba. My favorites to apply before lipstick or gloss are the EOS balms. I typically apply a heavier balm before bed like just shea butter.

3) Sun Protection. Especially if you plan on spending days by the pool or on the beach sun protection is very important. Sun burnt lips are very painful and can result in cracked, sore lips. When this happens you can't wear any lipstick at all. Save yourself the heartache and take the time to care for your lips properly.

Let me know your favorite lip balms!
xoxo
Dee

Make The Most of Your Makeup: Eyeshadow Pigments

Eyeshadow pigments are loose eyeshadow powders ranging in texture and finish, from matte and very finely milled to shimmer or glittery. Pigments are that cosmetic we all like to look at and collect because they are so pretty and enthralling. Sad thing is when reaching for eyeshadow on an everyday basis pigments lose the battle to pressed eyeshadows. A big reason is pressed shadows are easier to work with and less messy.

Let's take a second to consider the word 'pigment', it simply means colour. Therefore it is a simply a cosmetic colour in a powder form. I am sure you can see why this is an excellent multitasking makeup product. Pigments can be used in a number of ways here are my personal favorites.

1. Wet eyeshadow application. Rub your eyeshadow brush on a face wipe to dampen it then apply the pigment to your eyeshadow look with that brush. This works with pigments that have shimmer to intensify the finish and make it even more shimmery.
2. Add a small amount of shimmery golden or bronze pigment to body lotion to create a beautiful bronzed highlight on your skin. This is perfect for summertime outings; it adds a healthy glow.
3. Amp up your gloss or lipstick. You can create your own lipgloss by adding your desired pigment to clear gloss. You can also pat pigment over lipstick to mattify it, or add dimension.
4. Highlight. Who wouldn't want glowing gorgeous Jennifer Lopez skin? Pigments make excellent highlighters on the tops of the cheekbones! Tip: Be extra light handed and use a small fluffy blending brush for precise but soft beautiful application.

Writing this post has definitely inspired me to start playing with my eyeshadow pigments again. Follow my Instagram ways I use pigments more this season!

What are your favorite pigments Beauties? You know I want to know!

Xoxo

Dee

Make The Most of Your Makeup: Concealer

I used to say quite often the only thing I need for a certainty in the morning are 'the two C's'; Coffee and Concealer. This product is another must have in your personal makeup kit. It wields the power to not only make you look alive in the morning by hiding that under eye darkness. Concealer can be used to spot concealer acne scars, pimples or hyper-pigmentation. For those of you who are not big on wearing a full foundation application everyday; concealer in places where you need it and a light dust of translucent powder to set it can go a very long way to make you have that fresh faced appearance with very minimal effort and time. However there are a couple simple ways you can use your concealer to get that extra oomph out of its application!

1. Apply it to your eyelids to neutralize darkness and conceal veins. We use concealer under the eyes to hide that darkness, but what about on the eyelid? By using concealer there it balances the look and also gives an instant eye brightening effect. You can choose to just blend it out and set with powder or you can do this as a priming step before your eye shadow look. Tip: Use a small amount and blend well.
2. Use it as a makeup sharpener. With concealer and a trusty synthetic angled brush; you are equipped to trace along your winged liner to make it appear even more sharp and fierce. Also use it in this way to clean up bold lipstick looks; this makes the lipstick appear more defined and prevents the colour from bleeding outside of those lines and looking messy. Tip: Set lightly and carefully with translucent powder, this will make sure that concealer does not budge.
3. Use it to neutralize highly pigmented lips. Want your lip colour to pop however your lips are very pigmented naturally (coloured)? Dab a very small amount of concealer on your lips and blend out with a fluffy brush. Now you have a neutral canvas to layer that lip colour over and really make it pop!

What concealers do you like to use and how do you like to use them?

XOXO

Dee

Make the Most of Your Makeup: Lip Liner

The unsung hero in many a makeup bag. I have to confess, in the early part of my makeup wearing life I have been guilty of overlooking lip liner. I was used to just swiping on my lipstick or gloss and hitting the road. However embracing this product and playing around with it has made me love it so much...ok ok basically I cannot do my makeup without it. They not only help with the longevity of your lipstick or lip gloss; they create a more defined, neat shape to your lip look while also allowing your lip colour to wear down evenly.

Must Haves:-

1) A nude/neutral lip liner. This will go with every lipstick and gloss you have. A must have to define     the lips and also help lip products to stay longer without necessarily adding colour.

2) A brown lip liner. The perfect brown for you will vary depending on your complexion. By the way     no matter how dark you are unless you are pairing it with a black lipstick, Black lip liner is NOT        AN OPTION particularly black UNBLENDED lip liner! (pet peeve confession).

Here are some ways to get the most out of your lip liners.

1) For those lipstick shades that you thought were to bright, light, unflattering....Do not throw them         out or give them away. Try lining your lips with a brown lip liner and blending it out, then                   applying that lipstick over it. You may be surprised at the outcome. Brown helps to tone down             bright colours and add depth to lipstick or lip gloss that may be to light for your complexion. 

2) Long wear lip colour on a budget. A result of the formula of most lip liners is that most of them are     long wearing. If you want a long wearing lip colour; try filling in your whole lip with the liner for a     matte, long wearing lip look.

3) Manipulate lipsticks. Use those gorgeous colourful lip liners to turn your lipsticks or glosses into       other shades. Mix and match; for example use a purple lip liner with a pink lipstick to create your       own custom shade. Endless fun can be had by using your lip liners in this way!

If you Beauties have any lip looks you have done with lip liner only or mixing and matching tag us on instagram! We would love to see!

xoxo

Dee

Make the Most of Your Makeup: Cream & Powder Foundation Part 2

Too Dark 

I always say complexion makeup is the glue that holds your makeup look together; it is the anchor. No matter how fierce your eyeshadow or winged liner, how banging your brow game is or how gorgeous your lipstick; if your foundation is a wreck the makeup look is done for. Correct color matching is crucial to having the appearance of a beautiful, healthy complexion. However have no fear, if you have foundation in your beauty arsenal that is too dark you can still make use of it. Here are my tips on ways you can use your foundation that maybe to dark for you.

1. Contour. If you have cream to powder foundation that is too dark use it to contour (add shadows to places you want to appear farther away), this gives the effect appearing for sculpted and slimmer. You can apply this on the temples, under the cheeks and on the jawline. Be sure to blend this out thoroughly or you will have the appearance of dark lines on your face. Not acceptable!
2. Bronze. For powder foundations that maybe a little too dark and if they are of a warm undertone you can use them as a bronzer. Take a big powder brush and lightly sweep the foundation over the cheeks and temples before using your blush. Doing this adds some warmth to your complexion much like if you were basking in the sun for a couple hours.

BONUS: If you read last week's article this is probably obvious...Keep your liquid foundations that may be a shade too dark to mix with foundations you may purchase that are too light!

Thank you so much for all the positive feedback on this series! I am very excited to keep bringing these articles to you every Monday. Keep this suggestions coming Beauties! What products would you like to see featured in this series?

Xoxo

Dee

Make the Most of Your Makeup: Cream & Powder Foundation Part 1

Too Light

Every time someone schedules a one on one makeup class the most uttered sentence is “I have foundation but I'm pretty sure it's too light for me.” This is a growing problem because we have more drugstores, pharmacies and hair stores selling foundations that have no testers; forcing the consumer to resort to guessing their correct shade. With so many variables like bad lighting and oxidization (foundation becoming darker after application as a result of oxygen or air exposure); somewhere along the line you are bound to pick up a shade that is to light or to dark. Here are two of my favorite things to do with cream and powder foundation products I buy that are too light.

1. Highlight. Use the cream or powder foundation on areas of the face that you want to draw light to. For example the under eye area, chin, forehead down the middle of the nose. This draws light to these areas. The bonus of using them in this way is that they are matte (non shimmery) so
2. Eyeshadow. I use powder foundations that are a tad too light as an eyeshadow. It is matte and pigmented; so for those days when time is against you or you just want to look fresh a beautiful, pack some of that powder on your eyelids over a primer. Doing this will result in a balanced, fresh, natural makeup look.
   BONUS: Have you guessed it? Liquid foundations that are a tad too light need to be kept to mix with liquid foundations that are to dark.

There you have it folks! My first installment of the Make the Most of Your Makeup post. Part 2 will feature my tips for the foundations that are to dark.

Let me know which cosmetic product you would like to see in this series!

XOXO

Dee!

Make the Most of Your Makeup!

Welcome to my series on how to get the most out of your cosmetics! You are not alone; we all know you have a few products in your makeup bag that you may love but they are just not your perfect shade, you don't know how to use it or you are not getting the most out of using it. This series will help you get the most out of makeup you already own and teach you how to use those products in a multitasking fashion!

Articles in this series will be released every Monday! Here is where you Beauties come in; let me know what cosmetic that products you would like to learn ways to maximize on!

Xoxo

Dee

It's Giveaway Time!!!!

What better way to show you Beauties how much I love you? Welcome to my first giveaway of 2015! Watch the video to see how you can win some of my favorite products.

Open to Barbados only.

To Enter:
1) Subscribe to my blog by entering your email address in the section 'Follow by Email' on the right side of the screen.

2) Follow me on Instagram.

3) Share this video! (commenting is optional)

Links to all social media are listed below.

**Winner to be chosen on April 27th 2015


Blog: http://beautybydeeblackett.blogspot.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Beauty-By-Dee-Blackett/301345346554760

Instagram: https://instagram.com/beautybydeeblackett/

Tumblr: http://deeblackett.tumblr.com/

Welcome to the Fire Place!

Welcome!

If you have ventured into this section of my blog my wish is that you enjoy your stay and leave thoroughly inspired and encouraged. The  Fire Place is intended to be a place where everyone can be uplifted, to not only have that warmth through encouragement but to also keep that fire inside us burning bright! We have all struggled at one point in time and we can certainly learn from each others experiences. That is what community is all about. Please see my first entry in this video. It is of an experience I had that taught me some hard life lessons!

I hope you enjoyed. Feel free to comment or send experiences to deeblackett@gmail.com

If you want it to be anonymous state that in the message. 

xoxo

Dee

Foundations of the Moment!

Foundations I am currently using right now. What is working for you right now? 

xoxo Dee

Glam Revolution: Master The Technique

Glam Revolution is a new wave of seminar and workshop series where people are taught how to not only apply makeup on themselves but also how to apply on others. These classes are not only designed to be fully engaging, but are also dynamic, fun and most importantly educational. It is the brain child of myself and Shaniqua Trotman. Ok ok let's rewind......

Two makeup artist friends, eternally obsessed with makeup and their craft sat and chatted over lunch. Musing over our past collaborations, how much fun we have and how well we work together. It naturally brought us to the question; "What's next"? 

That 'What's next?' is what Glam Revolution sprang from. We both decided classes and workshops are so necessary, and this is an area in which we could excel in. Why come to a Glam Revolution class? One word. "MORE". Our attendees have the opportunity to not only view the techniques of two artists, but we are two artists with different techniques. Students get to take the best from each teacher and fuse them together into a technique or approach to makeup that works best for them. 

"MORE" also includes the fact that we go hard. Our classes accommodate students of all skill levels, we ensure everyone is involved and given the needed attention. Last but not least; GIVEAWAYS! Everyone loves them! We had proud sponsors like Black Opal Beauty, Essential Trends and Beyond Beauty. Students also took advantage of shopping after class for high quality cosmetics at exclusive class prices!

Here are some photos from our first seminar in this series!

Early birds waiting for class to begin!

Students getting their seats

Note taking time

Students having a blast! Our classes are highly interactive and there's lots of prizes to be won.

From our sponsor Black Opal Beauty! The ladies were elated to receive these goodies!

It's all in the technique!

Q&A Segment

Our lovely models! Ahleea and Ivanna. Flawless complexion makeup. Foundation by Black Opal Beauty. 

On Ahleea: Flawless Match Foundation in  Black Carob. 

On Ivanna: True Color Stick Foundation in Beautiful Bronze

Thank you to you fantastic people who attended the class. Stay tuned for more information on our next Glam Revolution class! We have tons of exciting plans for 2015!

The Understated Hero: Nude Lips Edition!

There is so much beauty in simplicity. I think this is why I love neutrals so very much. The element of not being out rightly bold yet possessing the capacity to make a statement is attractive to me. That being stated I am sure many of you noticed how much I have been loving nude lips lately. I have been wearing specific combinations recently that have not only been perfect for saving time in the morning, but oh so pretty! Here are my current nude lip essentials some I wear together and some I wear on their own.

Sleek Makeup Lip 4 in Ballet

I love the Sleek Makeup lipstick quad because it has four shades of neutrals with different textures that allows me to mix and match colours to get my desired intensity. This palette also comes with a lip brush in it for on the go touch ups.

Sleek Makeup Matte Me Lip Cream in Birthday Suit

The Sleek Matte Me Lip Cream is gorgeous! It is the perfect nude for me, you can definitely wear this topped with a gloss however I opt to wear it on its own and let its lovely velvet finish be the star. It's wear time is very good, and it doesn't dry out my lips to the extent that some other lip creams can. 

The next set of products I always always always use as a trio! On their own they're just alright but together........uhhmaazzzinngggg!! I start by lining my lips with lip liner from Ben Nye in French Toast; perfect chocolate brown lip liner. I blend that out and top with Milani's Colour Statement Lipstick in Nude Crème, which is too light for me on its own. Then I top with NYX Butter Gloss in Tiramisu. This combo is long wearing because of the layers, moisturizing and just plain gorgeous!

Milani Cosmetics Color Statement Lipstick in Nude Crème

NYX Butter Lip Gloss in Tiramisu

Ben Nye Lip Liner in French Roast

Tip: Don't give up on those nude lipsticks that are too light for you! Use a darker lip liner and blend it out before applying the lipstick/gloss.

What are your favorite nude lipsticks and combination? I wanna know!