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Posts from the ‘Makeup Tips’ Category

May 17

“Celebrity Makeup Artist Secrets”

Celebrity Makeup Artist Secrets - SerafinoSays.com

Celebrity Makeup Artist Secrets

Do you ever wonder why celebrities and models always look so good?   Of course, they are blessed with good genes and the liberal use of Photoshop, but they also have access to cache of secret beauty products most consumers know nothing about.  I’m talking about pro products and niche brands that seldom get press.

Cream blush is my go-to product for giving skins a glowing finish. Unfortunately, most cream blushes at the cosmetic counter tend to be  sheer and fade away after a few hours. To the rescue is Ben Nye Cream Blush Wheel  – six gorgeous neutral colors that blend perfectly and last for hours.   And for around $18, a bargain!

Celebrity Makeup Artist Secret - SerafinoSays.comPRO TIP:  I like to use these colors on the lips, too.  Apply with your fingers for a matte finish or add a dab of gloss for a youthful sheen.

Everyone loves lip-gloss, but it needs constant touch-ups to look crisp and flawless.  The secret to a lip-gloss that stays put is invisible lip liner.  Simply trace your lip line with a clear toned pencil (I adore Sally Hansen Invisible Lip Liner) and your gloss will stay for hours.  Fabulous!Celebrity Makeup Artist Secrets - SerafinoSays.com

PRO TIP:  Use invisible lip pencils to keep eyeliner in place, too.

Brows can make or break a face.  To achieve perfect brows, most women need several shades of brow powder as well as a wax to seal the deal – but who wants to lug around all those products in their purse?   I love Youngblood Brow Kit that comes with (in four shades) two powders and a matching wax as well as a dual sided angle brush/spoolie and a tweezer – everything you need in one mirrored compact.  Perfection.Celebrity Makeup Artist Secrets - SerafinoSays.com

PRO TIP:Always shape your brows in natural light to ensure you see every hair.

One product that is a staple in every makeup artist’s kit isEmbryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre. This miracle cream can be used as a primer, moisturizer or makeup remover.  Highly concentrated, this wonder cream is perfect for all skin types and ensures a flawless foundation application.
Celebrity Makeup Artist Secrets - SerafinoSays.com

PRO TIP:  I like to use a dab on dry elbows or rough knees before applying self-tanner.

Concealer can be tricky.  Every gal needs it, but apply too much or too little and you can have problems.  Senna Cosmetics HD Hydra-Cover Concealer  is foolproof every time you use it.  Each compact has three shades to customize coverage. The light peach shade neutralizes blue/gray shadows under the eyes. The yellow shade conceals any redness around the eyes and face. The deeper neutral beige shade covers all facial flaws, blemishes and pigmentation.   And it never gets dry or crusty under your eye.

Celebrity Makeup Artist Secrets - SerafinoSays.com

 PRO TIP:  In a pinch, this concealer can be used as a full foundation or as an eye shadow primer.

Want to know David’s Makeup Spring Trends?  Click Here

Want to know David’s 5 Top Drugstore Beauty Buys? Click Here

Want some Red Hot Lips? Click Here

Want a few secret Summer Makeup Tips with David? Click Here

Want to Follow David on Twitter? Click Here

Want to see some of Davids stunning work? Click Here

Celebrity Makeup Artist Secrets - SerafinoSays.com

“True beauty isn’t about perfection. By liberating people to realize this simple fact, we help them see the real beauty within themselves.” Kristan Serafino

 

Mar 27

“Spring Beauty Trends”

Spring Beauty Trends 2013 - David Maderich -Photog: Roberto Ligresti SerafinoSays

Spring Beauty Trends

It’s that time of year and we can’t wait to read what Celebrity Makeup Artist picked for his Spring Beauty Trends 2013

Written by: David Maderich

It’s spring beauty trends, darling – the perfect season to revamp your beauty routine and welcome a new season. Try my simply tips to shake away the winter beauty blahs and say hello to a sassy spring.

FACE – Spring is the perfect time of year to stock up on beauty potions loaded with sunscreen.  I love Lumene Finland BB Illuminating Anti-Aging BB Cream with Artic Cloudberry This amazing BB cream brightens, hydrates, covers imperfections and protects with a broad spectrum SPF 20. And, darlings, always remember to apply SPF to your neck and chest for extra protection – no chicken necks allowed!Spring Beauty Trends 2013 - Lumene - SerafinoSays.com

If your skin needs more coverage, add a smidgen of concealer.  Try MAKE’s Soft Focus Corrective Duo - Conceal/Set and you are ready to go.Spring Beauty Trends 2013 - MAKE - SerafinoSays.com

Pro tip: If your concealer looks dry and cracked after a few hours, blend a touch of Dermalogica Ultrasmoothing Eye Serum over it for instant refreshing.Spring Beauty Trends 2013 - Dermalogica - SerafinoSays.com

LIPS – After a long brutal winter, lips need all the help they can get.  Remember to always keep your lips moisturized with a rich balm. I love Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm in Mango  not only for the yummy flavor but also because it never feels waxy.   Spring Beauty Trends 2013 - Sun Bum - SerafinoSays.com

Once lips are deliciously moist, try spring’s most fashionable lip trend – nude lips.   I adore Rimmel London’s Stay Glossy Lip Gloss in Non Stop Glamour – a wearable peachy gold. 

Pro tip: When choosing a nude lip color, always look for a nude one shade darker than your skin for the perfect tone.

HANDS – After a winter encased in gloves, it’s time to set your hands free. This spring, nude hued nails are all the rage.  Try Butter London Nail Lacquer in Tea & Toast and Crumpet – two gorgeous tan tones.  Try one color on your hands and the other on our toes!  Fabulous.   Spring Beuaty Trends 2013 - Butter London - SerafinoSays.com

Pro tip: If your hands are parched by winter winds, keep a tube of Burt’s Bees Ultimate Care Hand Cream in your purse and apply several times a day.Spring Beauty Trends 2013- Burt's Bee's- SerafinoSays.com

BODY – It’s time to shed the wool sweaters and coats and slip into shorts and short sleeves. For glowing J Lo skin, I suggest Shea Moisture Olive & Green Tea Body Butter from head to toe.Spring Beuaty Trends 2013- Shea Butter - SerafinoSays.comPro tip: Before bedtime, smother your body in a rich cream and toss on an old pair of sweats for an all night moisturizing treat.

EYES  – My two eye makeup wake-ups are mascara and eye cream.  To sooth winter weary eyes, smooth Algenist Complete Eye Renewal Balm  around your eyes morning and night to calm puffiness and reduce dark circles. Spring Beauty Trends 2013 - Algenist - SerafinoSays.com

I am in love with Covergirl’s new Clump Crusher Mascara  I swear, this mascara never clumps and make your lashes thick and plump and ready to flirt.  Spring Beauty 2013 - Mascara - SerafinoSays.com

Pro tip: Replace your mascara every 6 weeks to guarantee fresh and germ free applications.

For more beauty tips follow me on twitter @davidmaderich

Spring Beauty Trends 2013 - David Maderich -SerafinoSays.com

Ever since he was 13 years old, David Maderich dreamed of working in the world of powder and paint.
“My fourth grade notebooks were covered with doodles of gorgeous faces with long eyelashes and powder pink cheeks”
A career in makeup was certain.
David’s work has appeared in Vogue, Elle, Vibe, GQ, Glamour, Esquire, Rolling Stone, Surface and The New York Times. He has perfected the faces of Prince, Bruce Springsteen, Brad Pitt, Pink, Drew Barrymore, Mary Kate Olsen, Meg Ryan, Giselle, Carmen Electra, Ricki Lake, Tim Gunn, Drew Barrymore, Kim Basinger, Valerie Harper and Joan Collins as well as hundreds of models. 
His advertising work includes Avon, Target, Macy’s, Neiman Marcus, Conair, Geoffrey Beene, GM, Pepsi Cola, General Mills, 3M, Delta Airlines and Timex Watches.

“True beauty isn’t about perfection. By liberating people to realize this simple fact, we help them see the real beauty within themselves.” Kristan Serafino

 

 

 

 

 

Mar 19

“Fashion Show Presentation Daniel Vosovic’s Autumn/Winter 2013″

Fashion Show Presentation Daniel Vosovic’s Autumn/Winter 2013 - SerafinoSays

Fashion Show Presentation – Daniel Vosovic’s Autumn/Winter 2013

While it’s entertaining to attend a perfectly choreographed Fashion Show Presentation, I find it even more exciting to watch the organized chaos occurring backstage.  It’s fascinating to see how all the magic is created behind the scenes.  While at Daniel Vosovic’s Autumn/Winter 2013 Collection, I ran into two friends who were leading the Makeup and Nail teams that were responsible for the creation of the stunning looks worn by the models.

Led by Celebrity Makeup Artist Kristin Hilton, and her team of MAKE artists, they created a contemporary inspiration which referenced modern aristocracy – “a polished girl with a playful side.”  A bold, statement lip was the focus of the look which was offset by the regal, porcelain-like skin.  Click here to add Kristin’s MAKE suggestions to your beauty vanity! (I LOVE the makeup)

SKIN:
Step 1: Kristin began by removing excess makeup with MAKE’s Makeup Remover Wipes
Step 2: She then applied AM/PM Moisture Cream to hydrate dry, winter skin
Step 3: Working from the palm of her hand, where she saturated a stipple brush with MAKE’s Soft Focus Foundation, Kristin blended the foundation onto the model’s skin to create a flawless, porcelain look. Concealer was used where needed to cover any blemishes or under eye darkness
Step 4: Kristin used MAKE’s Expert Veil Brush to powder the forehead, under the eyes, and around the nose to deliver a matte finish with a bit of extra coverage to ensure the look was perfectly polished
Step 5: Finally, Kristin used Matte Finish Eyeshadow in Kalahari – a medium cappuccino brown with yellow undertones – as a contouring blush

EYES:
Step 1: Kristin began by filling in the brows where needed to create a natural yet defined look. She used Expert Brow Definer Brush and Brow Sculpting Duo to provide definition
Step 2: MAKE’s Matte Finish Eyeshadow in Kalahari was also used on the eyes where Kristin brushed the shade into the crease of the lids and blended out to create natural shading
Step 3: She then lined the water line with Gel Eyeliner Pencil in Very Brown and blended Satin Finish Eyeshadow in Aubergine – an intense eggplant purple – into the lower lash line to set the look
Step 4: Finally, Kristin curled the lashes with MAKE’s Eyelash Curler, applying several coats of Defining Mascara. She added a touch of Skin Illuminator in Skir to the inner corner of the eyes to brighten the look and add luminosity

LIPS:
Step 1: Kristin began by applying concealer to the lips to offset any pink pigment that may interfere with the dark, dramatic colour she and Daniel chose
Step 2: She then lined the lips with MAKE’s Lipliner Pencil in Rum Raisin and filled in lips with Silk Satin Lipstick in Beetroot – an intense wine with red undertone

Fashion Show Presentation Daniel Vosovic’s Autumn/Winter 2013

Nails: Fashion Show Presentation

Celebrity Nail Tech and friend Elle, who is a member of Dermelect’s Board of Advisors, requested the help of Rose Velez, manicurist to the stars, to create the two nail looks.  Rose created two variations depending on the models presentation attire.

"Fashion Show Presentation Daniel Vosovic’s Autumn/Winter 2013

Look 1:  Bold Ombre using the teal and navy

Look 2:  Mushroom shade and topped with a gold striping tape.

"Fashion Show Presentation Daniel Vosovic’s Autumn/Winter 2013

Can’t wait for Fall to try out Dermelect’s sexy Nail Fall Shades but in the meantime, make sure to check out their nail colors for Spring!

“True beauty isn’t about perfection. By liberating people to realize this simple fact, we help them see the real beauty within themselves.” Kristan Serafino

 

Mar 11

“DIVAliciousBlog ReLaunches”

Divaliciousblog Relaunches - Lauren Cosenza - SerafinoSays.com

DIVAliciousblog Relaunches

DIVAlicsiousblog relaunches and SerafinoSays would like to re-introduce our readers to Lauren Cosenza, who is affectionately known by her followers as LDIVA.  Lauren is a masterful makeup artist whose artistry is regularly scene in the beauty collections of Victoria’s Secret.  Lauren shares her experience, skill, passion and fashion forward eye daily in her popular Fashion & Lifestyle blog DIVAlicious (DIVAliciousBlog.com).

You may have first been introduced to LDIVA as a featured interview backstage at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show on SerafinoSays.   Lauren shared her insightful perspective on all-things makeup and beauty.  Hopefully this entertaining, informative and fun interview have encouraged you to be a regular visitor of Lauren’s at DIVAlicious.

Divaliciousblog Relaunches - Lauren Cosenza - SerafinoSays.comI say we are re-introducing you to LDIVA, because TODAY Lauren would like to welcome everyone to DIVAlicious 2.0, her totally revamped blog.  While it still offers the same attitude and functionality as before, DIVAlicious 2.0 is built as a social community.  What does this mean?  Along with the regular array of beauty, fashion & style, DIVAliciousBlog.com now offers interactive features encouraging followers with User-Generated Content, Photo Galleries, Member Spotlights, Social Interaction, Forums and much more!

Congratulations LDiva, we love YOU!

“True beauty isn’t about perfection. By liberating people to realize this simple fact, we help them see the real beauty within themselves.” Kristan Serafino

Feb 27

“Makeup Tips”

Makeup Tips

Makeup Tips - Photog: Stuart Tyson - SerafinoSays.com

Makeup Tips from Celebrity Makeup Artist Mathew Nigara are regularly seen in leading publications.  When SerafinoSays caught up with him on a photo shoot for Cosmopolitan Magazine we could not resist asking his 5 Favorite Makeup Don’ts.

This quote should just about sum it up:

“There are no rules of makeup BUT there are guidelines to follow.” Celebrity Makeup Artist Mathew Nigara

5 Don’t of Makeup

  1. Using a concealer which is too light for your skin tone.
  2. Over use of Powder.
  3. Unblended ANYTHING.
  4. Using Lip Liner a line instead of using it for depth of color.
  5. Using an abundance of lip gloss. Unless you are wearing a specially painted French lip that requires a lot of upkeep only use lip gloss in the center of the lip to keep the lips looking supple.  Color should be added with Lip stick.
“True beauty isn’t about perfection. By liberating people to realize this simple fact, we help them see the real beauty within themselves.” Kristan Serafino

 

Feb 20

“Kim Kardashian Eyelashes”

Kim Kardashian Eyelashes -Photog: Unkown - SerafinoSays

Kim Kardashian Eyelashes

If you envy Kim Kardashian eyelashes that are long and full but look more natural than mascara, your answer is individual “faux” lashes. Unlike full fake lashes, individuals are small lash pieces you apply exactly where and how you want to. They come in different lengths—short, medium, long—and can be found at most drugstores. If you’d like to try them (and you should!) here’s the individual lash “how-to”:

We turned to Celebrity Makeup Artist & Beauty Blogger Robyn Tamura for her Kim Kardashian Eyelash application Tips:

  1. Squeeze a bit of lash glue onto a tissue or the back of your hand.
  2. Using TweezerMan tweezers, grab a single lash piece then scarcely dip the lash tip into glue.
  3. Allow the glue to dry on the lash tip for a few seconds.
  4. Delicately place the lash on the lash line where you want length and fullness.Kim Kardashian Eyelashes - SerafinoSays.com
  5. Keep applying pieces until you get the total lash look you want.  Use as few or many as necessary.
  6. Use the same technique to apply lashes to your other eye.  Try to achieve a balanced look.
  7. Once eye lashes are in place, apply a coat of Laura Mercier Mascara.Voila!  The lashes you’ve always been looking for.

Important PRO Tips:

  • If you find the kind you lash you bought are too long, you can use small scissors to clip them shorter.
  • Be sure not to clip flat and straight across, clip unevenly to keep them looking natural.
  • Use a steady hand to place the pieces just right because the glue dries quickly and holds firmly at the angle you place it.

About Robyn TamuraKim Kardashian Eyelashes - Robyn Tamura - SerafinoSays.com

“Before and during my years at Smith College I worked at Clinique. When I graduated, I went to theEstée Lauder Companies in NYC and worked for the Origins, Estée Lauder and Clinique brands—eventually becoming Clinique’s Director of Strategy and Creative Development and Global Beauty Director. In this position I developed programs and taught makeup application throughout Europe and Asia, in the Middle East and South Africa. My experience at ELC also included strategic branding, executive training and collaborating with marketing, product development, communications and sales to launch new programs.

Today I have my own beauty consulting business based in NYC, Shizué Beauty. I work on global beauty projects and as a makeup artist for many different companies. My clients have included Giorgio Armani, Chanel, J&J, philosophy, Vogue and Guggenheim Productions. The work is rewarding and fun - and I get to work with so many great people, in various brands and capacities.

My aim here is to provide makeup tips and ideas that are informative, helpful and fun. Makeup is not a serious endeavor, it’s to be played with and enjoyed! Please let me know any feedback or thoughts or ideas you may have. Because while I do enjoy this for myself, I want you to enjoy it too.”

“True beauty isn’t about perfection.  By liberating people to realize this simple fact, we help them to see the real beauty within themselves.” Kristan Serafino

 

Jan 28

“Top 5 Drugstore Beauty Bargains”

Drugstore - SerafinoSays.com

Written by @davidmaderich

You don’t have to break the bank to buy the best beauty products.  Many drugstore brands are equal if not better than their pricey department store counterparts.  Read on for my Top Five Drugstore Beauty Bargains – all for under $12!

Jergens Daily Moisture Dry Skin Moisturizer is my go-to body lotion.  Loaded with silk proteins and citrus extracts, this luscious lotion delivers 24-hour hydration and smoothing without a sticky after-feel.  Use it everyday after your shower or bath to ensure kissable skin.  Pro tip: Keep a bottle near the sink for easy access after hand washing.Jeregens - SerafinoSays.com

Believe me when I tell you I’ve tried every mascara at the cosmetic counter. But without fail, I always come back to Covergirl Lash Exact Mascara. Why do I like it?  For starters, it never clumps or flakes; and it applies smooth and even. I even love the waterproof version.   Pro tip: Buy new mascara every two months.Covergirl Mascara - SerafinoSays.com

In the world of beauty, BB Creams are all the rage. These miracle beauty balms conceal, moisturize, protect and clarify all in one tube.  My favorite is Garnier BB Cream because not only is it rich in moisturizers, it glides on effortlessly.  Pro tip:  Use two BB Creams – one to match the skin and a darker shade to add color to the face – apply the darker hue to the cheekbones for an instant bronzed glow.

Garnier B&B Cream - SerafinoSays.com

I used to spend big bucks on fancy cleansing products because most drug store brands either stripped my skin of moisture or did nothing at all.  Well, no more. L’Oreal Advanced Revitalift Radiant Smoothing Cream Cleanser is a rich foaming cleanser that removes every last trace of makeup and grime. It also leaves the skin moist and fresh.  And the squeezable tube allows you to use every drop.  Pro tip: This cleanser makes a great brush cleaner.Loreal RevitaLift - SerafinoSays.com

Lip-gloss is a staple in every gal’s purse.  I like a gloss that offers rich color as well as longevity – and that’s hard to find.   Maybelline Superstay 10 hour Stain Gloss is the perfect combo of color and durability plus super shine.  I have all 10 colors in my kit, but my favorite is Mauve Dream.  Pro tip: Scrub your lips with a toothbrush before applying any long wear lip color.Super Stay 10 Hour Stain Gloss - SerafinoSays.com

 

For more makeup tips make sure to follow @DavidMaderich

David Maderich -SerafinoSays.com*David has been a freelance makeup artist for 20 years. His work has appeared in Vogue, Elle, Tatler, GQ, Glamour, Esquire, Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair, Surface, and The New York Times. He has groomed the faces of Prince, Bruce Springsteen, Brad Pitt, Tim Gunn, Carmen Electra, Pink, Mary Kate Olsen, Dave Mathews Band, Nancy O’Dell, Justin Chambers, Ricki Lake, Drew Barrymore, Giselle, Kim Basinger, Patti Labelle, and Joan Collins—as well as hundreds of models. His advertising work includes Avon, Target, General Motors, Macy’s, Geoffrey Beene, Marshall Field’s, Pepsi Cola, General Mills, 3M, Victoria Secret, and Timex Watches.

“True beauty isn’t about perfection. By liberating people to realize this simple fact, we help them see the real beauty within themselves.” Kristan Serafino

Jan 24

“Dr Hauschka’s Volume Mascara”

Makeup by Regina Harris - SerafinoSays.comMakeup by: Regina Harris

 

Guys and Dolls….. she’s back! The Skin Care Guru  is going to share another one of her products reviews but this time she has dove beyond the comforts of a skincare regime.  We are excited to be witness to the evolution of  “The Skin Care Guru”and what better do so than with a tube of makeup.

Written by: The Skin Care Guru

So.  You’re probably wondering why TSCG is writing a review on mascara.  Mascara isn’t a skin care item, its a beauty product!  (Then again, I’m assuming that you’re putting that much thought into this whole dealie, which in fact is unlikely to be the case….anyway.)  Yes, its true, mascara isn’t a skin care item.  BUT if you’re allergic to your mascara, or sensitive to it, or it runs and stains the skin around your eyes, causing you to vigorously rub it off, it becomes a skin care issue.  Why?  The skin around your eyes is one of the first areas to lose elasticity, so chronic puffing, pulling, stretching, and other no-no’s are likely to accelerate signs of aging.

Does that sound like I’m reaching for an excuse?  OK, maybe, because like most women I’d rather stroll out naked than without mascara.  However, I’m wildly sensitive to any number of ingredients and thus prone to redness, puffing, itching, etc.  After one particularly nasty reaction that left me looking like I had parasites invading my eyelids, I turned to mineral mascara, which seemed like a dream come true.  No parabens!  No phlatlates!  Then, my mineral mascara of choice was discontinued.  After sitting shiva for a week, I started an epic search for its replacement.Dr Hauschka's Volume Mascara

Last week, I received a tube of Dr. Hauschka’s Volume Mascara.  Every granola-eater knows Dr. Hauschka, one of the most venerable organic skin care lines.  But mascara?   Huh.

PACKAGING:  Plain black tube in a nice, normal size.  When did mascara packaging start looking like something better kept discreetly in a bedside drawer??

BRUSH:  Medium density spooly, no taper.  Fibrous.

CONSISTENCY:  Semi-wet.  Not so wet that your lashes stick together, though, instead, it goes on like silk without the downsides of a wet product.  Pretty much the ideal;  allows the user to brush on several layers quickly without snags.

CLUMP FACTOR:  Zero.  I mean ZERO.  As in none.  Kind of amazingly none, given that it does actually give your lashes some heft.  (See below.)

COVERAGE:  Medium.  One or two swipes looks fairly natural, three or four starts to look dramatic.  But still without a single clump, and even better, without the buildup at the tip of the lash that’s so common (and icky looking.)  So while the drama factor climbs, the undesirable stick-lash look is never a risk.

SMUDGE FACTOR:  Medium-high.  This was really my only gripe;  for my day-long mascara, I do expect staying power, and staying power that I don’t have to think about, as I am totally unlikely to look in the mirror between 7:30 a.m. and the end of the work day.  (Who wants to see herself in flourescent bathroom lights??)  At day end, I did find smudges under my eyes three days out of five, though not huge raccoon smudges.

Conclusion?  I would absolutely buy this mascara again.  Need to experiment a bit with smudge control, but love the effect, love the lack of clumps.

Love this review? Make sure to click here for “The Skin Care Guru’s” review on MenScience Facial Tone Enhancer.

“True beauty isn’t about perfection. By liberating people to realize this simple fact, we help them see the real beauty within themselves.” Kristan Serafino

Dec 18

“Last Minute Holiday Beauty Gifts By Celebrity Makeup Artist David Maderich”

Written by: David Maderich 

The holidays are fast approaching, and if you’re like me, you’ve been too busy sipping martinis at holiday parties to even think about gift giving. Well, dear readers, take a peek at my “Last Minute Holiday Beauty Gifts”.  I mean, what gal doesn’t love the gift of beauty?

I adore all-in-one makeup kits – and Pixi has one of the cutest kits this holiday season.  The Early Bird Morning Light kit  is packed with 3 blushes, 2 bronzers and 20 eye shadows. All the colors are designed to make you look wide-awake and ready to start the day or night.   This fabulous little kit also makes a divine stocking stuffer for gals-on-the-go.

Every glamour girl loves lip-gloss, so why not indulge her? I am in love with Mally Rancol’s new Mally Holiday Slimline Lip Gloss Library.  Packaged in a gilded gold gift box are 10 super shiny liquid lipsticks in every wearable color under the rainbow – from natural to pink to red to plum.   Buy one for every gal on your list.

Gel nails are all the rage, but they are not only expensive, but time consuming.   For the do-it-yourself gal on your beauty list, try Sally Hansen’s Salon Gel Polish Gel Manicure Starter Kit.  Each kit contains all you need for 10 perfect salon gel manicures with high gloss shine and zero chips for up to two weeks.  I tried these nails on a shoot and they are a breeze to apply.

Sexy smokey eyes make the perfect holiday gift.  Urban Decay’s 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Zero (black) is the first pencil that I’ve discovered that stays put on the inner rim (the water line).  And this stuff stays on forever – cry, make love or rumba until the cows come home and you will still look fabulous.  Try other colors like Lust (purple) or Flipside (teal) for 24-hour liner or blend it out for nonstop eye shadow.  I even use it for lipstick!  I swear, this stuff doesn’t move.

What beauty junkie isn’t  on the perpetual hunt for a good foundation? Well, look no more.  Tom Ford Beauty Traceless Foundation Stick is here.   This is definitely my new favorite foundation.  Not only does this miracle stick have amazing coverage that you can layer on for sheer to heavy coverage, but it also stays fresh all day with a soft dewy finish.  I swear, Tom Ford can even make foundation sexy!   Buy one for every girl on your list!

Sexy wavy hair is a gift every girl dreams about.  Make her hair dreams come to life by giving her the new John Frieda Definition & Curl Wavy Curls Iron.  This fabulous titanium ceramic-coated 1 to 1 ½ inch iron makes sassy loose waves that will make Santa swoon.  Just wrap the hair up the iron like a candy cane and your hair will be ready for holiday fun.

For the sassy lass or lad  that craves a holiday stocking stuffed with skincare, make them smile with Osmotics Cosmeceuticals.  I highty recommend the eye creams.  These tiny jars of hope will help erase the sags and bags of everyday living – and what fashionista doesn’t love that!  Try Blue Copper 5 Firming Eye Cream to firm and tighten the eye area or Renovage Cellular Eye Repair for serious mature skin with crow’s feet and sun damage.

Finally, for the person on your beauty list that has everything, I’ve found the perfect gift.  Everyone washes his or her hands, right?  And all that washing leaves the hands dry and cracked, right?  Well, say hello to Soap & Glory Cream and Soaper Duo  – hand soap and hand cream paired together in a nifty stainless steel caddy that will look genius on any counter.  Fabulous!

Now get out there and shop until you drop!

Want everyday Makeup Tips? Follow David on twitter @davidmaderich

 “True beauty isn’t about perfection. By liberating people to realize this simple fact, we help them see the real beauty within themselves.” Kristan Serafino

Nov 15

“How To Become An “It Girl”"

Written by:  Kristan Serafino

While most women aspire to be the “It Girl” in the eyes of admirers, a definition for “It” remains as elusive as it is ambiguous and mysterious.  We turned to our resident Renaissance woman, Regina Harris, a friend whose intellectual interest and accomplishments span the arts and business to include consummate celebrity makeup artist, sculpture, perfumer of fine fragrances, writer, business entrepreneur, fashion designer, photographer, and dancer.

When we asked Regina for the definition of “It Girl,” it came as no surprise to SerafinoSays that she quoted Rudyard Kipling, “Tisn’t beauty, so to speak, nor good talk necessarily. It’s just it.”  We love you Regina, but now we’re really befuddled!
Since Regina now has us thoroughly intrigued we decided to delve deeper into her theory with a little Q&A.

SS: Could you interpret Mr. Kipling explanation?

RH: An “It Girl” is the type of girl with the ability to take a city by storm.  That girl that sticks in one’s memory.

SS: When did the concept of an “It Girl” first enter the vocabulary?

RH: Evelyn Nesbit brought the birth of the “It Girl” as we know it, but I am sure that she has always existed.  Actress Clara Bow* achieved status with the film “It” 1927 from the writing of Elinor Glyn.

SS: Who do you consider a modern day “It Girl?”

RH: Warhol’s Superstar Edie Sedgwick and  today actress Chloe Sevigny has  that special something.

SS: What about Chloe Sevigny makes her an “It” from your perspective?

RH: She is a fashion leader, not a fashion follower. There is always a carefree element to her style and not afraid to morph.  She is the girl that all eyes are on at the party because she looks different in the best way. She is “it” because she dares!

Solange Knowles is a new “it Girl” in fashion. She mixes her wardrobe colors and  like a master painter.
I think it was what they have in common. Great personal style boldly reflects individuality with a peppering of theatrical eccentricity and nostalgia.

SS: How can any woman transform herself into an “It Girl?”

RH: Embrace your inner “It Girl.”  Go against the grain and wear clothes in your own unique way and create your own fashion personality. Dare to wear that new dress with your grandmother’s favorite handbag and fun sunglasses.  Wear a big hat.  Most important, have fun and feel great about the way you look and everyone else will think you’ve got “It.”

SS: Any Beauty secrets you can share with an up-and-coming “It Girl?”

RH: Some of my favorite “It Girl” beauty tips:

  • Let your hair dry naturally for a day and embrace it.
  • Go for a daring hairstyle or new cut.
  • Find a colorful lipstick or eyeshadow and wear it.
“True beauty isn’t about perfection. By liberating people to realize this simple fact, we help them see the real beauty within themselves.” Kristan Serafino

Sep 12

“5 Fall Makeup Must Haves By Celebrity Makeup Artist David Maderich”

Photographer: Julia Pogodina / Makeup: David Maderich

Written By: Celebrity Makeup Artist @DavidMaderich… AKA Mister Makeup

It’s finally fall, darling.  Time to put the bronzer and self-tanner on the shelf and update your cosmetics bag.  Read my top five tips to welcome fall 2012.

5 Fall Makeup Must Haves: Read more

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