DAY 9: New Year, New Look, New YOU!

So much change! But it's a New Year and you should look at change as GOOD! You have probably noticed the new site and new name - but it's still me - fun changes for 2008!

Problem: The most common question I receive from clients and people in passing is... "How do I get out of my beauty rut?
I feel stuck in my old makeup and skincare routine. Every time I try something new, I fall back into my comfort zone and do not give the new treatments a chance. What do you suggest?"

Solution: Try it! You might REALLY like it! I am in the process of looking at new product lines for the new year and I have found some GREAT products. But if I didn't take the time to try some new products and just stuck with my old stuff, I would never have found some great new products!!! My lash clients agree...

This year I will launch a line called BLEND essentials. The line will consist only of items you can add to your current skincare regimen and makeup bags to help you achieve what I refer to as "the flawless face." That is why I call it BLEND. These items can just "blend" into what you are already using and add some pizazzz! The most important technique when it comes to doing makeup on tv, film, special events or just everyday is BLENDING... again, see the connection.

So try a new eyeshadow color. Instead of using it alone... add it on top of what you currently wear. Try to smoke out the corners of your eyes or line the inside rim of your eyes with a kohl pencil. Try a new scrub for your face and actually use it 2-3 times a week. Try a new sunscreen (powdered sunscreen, aka - mineral m/u brushes are all the rage!). Take that wonderful smelling essential oil and wear it on your pulse points for a day or two - see who notices. And grab a great red lipstick and add it on top of your current neutral color. There are so many little touches you can add to spice up your look.

It is a great time to try new things. Sometimes we like them, sometimes we don't - but as my father always says, "You don't know until you try it, and then you just might like it!"

Feel free to email with any questions... I can help give you some suggestions of products to try and help you liven up your beauty rut!

I will have some great treasures to share with you soon... so stay tuned!

And 2008 will be a great year for us all!

Some FUN Makeup Ideas for the Season...

This is the time of year where everyone has friends and family to see, work obligations, parties to attend and places to travel.
Why not make it fun and leave everyone with a great impression!

Try something different in your makeup routine!
LASHES are HOT!
Whether you go for the natural lush look of lash extensions for the season (they will last you through New Years! & if you are good Valentine's Day!) or play around with glued on false lashes - GO FOR IT!
I was just in ULTA yesterday and they have some wonderful glittery lashes from ARDEL. They are only $3.99 each and if you take care of them, you can use them all season. Just make sure you use good glue! My favorite is DUO.
Application takes alittle practice, but you can do it! Start by centering them in the middle of your eye and work your way out to the ends. You only need a toothpick's worth of glue on the lashes and you want to fit them right in the indentation on your lash line. Just start practicing and you'll be perfect by the party!

Glitter and shimmer!
Even the most natural non-makeup wearer can have fun with a little glitter and shimmer this holiday season. It is easy and when the light hits your face, you'll glisten.
The best thing to do is look for an eyeshadow that has glitter in it (although this usually irriates my eyes by the end of the evening because the pieces are too big but may work for you) or find a FINE powder shadow with shimmer!
Alot of the mineral makeup eyeshadows are GREAT for this! I am addicted to all the colors from BARE ID that are shimmery.
As you apply they will naturally fall on the tops of your cheekbones and there is your glisten! on your eyes and a light highlight on your cheeks.
You will be surprised at how many compliments you will receive!
You can also try glitter eyeliner (these are ALWAYS a showshopper!) right across your lash line like the products from URBAN DECAY. Or if liquid liner isn't your thing, many brands have eyeliner pencils with glitter in them too (MAC has some great ones). Have fun! and remember, a little goes a long way - don't over-do!

Lips that stay on!
Lips are fun - you can go glossy or slightly darker than normal around the holidays and you'll be the Belle of the Ball.
With all the talking, drinking and eating we do this time of year, it is hard to find a lipstick that actually lasts all evening.
First step is finding a great lip liner... when everything else wears off - at least you will still have the lip liner. I love the tried and true SPICE liner from MAC.
Line your entire lip - then fill in with lip liner... pick a long-wearing color, like my recent favorite REVELON COLOR STAY and appy over the liner. Then follow with a light gloss of your choice.
The long-wearing colors tend to dry out your lips a bit but I have worn them alot this fall with all my travelling and by putting on chapstick each night before bed, it hasn't been a problem - and I am REALLY dry.

So while standing at the check-out counter or waiting for your number to be called to pick out those holiday gifts, look through the beauty magazines (you don't have to buy them) and take a look at some fun ideas that you might like to try for the holidays!

Just a little change to your makeup routine, and you'll be surprised at how much fun it is. When you see the pictures from the parties, you won't believe your eyes! Compliments will definately come your way! Enjoy...

Please write to me with your success stories and tips... I look forward to hearing from you!
Happy Holidays!

Michelle