Youthful Renewal & Curve Appeal

Youthful Renewal

Aging, like paying taxes, is inevitable. And with aging we may face, umm shall we say a little sagging, a couple laugh lines and the first signs of grey hair. Now don’t get us wrong, we love the sophistication and grace of an older woman, we just don’t like the not-so-fun parts that go with it. With more skin creams and potions on the market today, we sometimes think companies forget that our hair ages as well. But now with the launch of Joico’s re:nu Age Defy line, particularly the line’s pièce de résistance, the Re:nual Serum, grey hair has finally met it’s match.

The re:nu Age Defy hair care system targets the loss of hair thickness, manageability, vibrancy, shine, strength and the addition of more grey hairs with it’s scientifically advanced technology, designed to stop hair from acting it’s age.

Consisting of six wet line products, four styling agents and the Re:nual Serum daily treatment, it’s only a matter of time before you’ll be turning heads!

Poweder&paint.com

Joico
www.joico.com
Available only at professional salons

Curve Appeal

There are products that promise to smooth bumps and lumps, and then there are ones that promise legitimate weight loss.

Nude Skincare Smoothing Body Refiner is prepped to trim and tone your wobbly bits. Unlike other cellulite busting creams, this one smells like a high-end fragrance (it’s actually cupuacu butter and ginger). It’s easy to apply, and you can easily slop it on if you’re rushed, because the formula is slippery, light and very fluid. There’s also zero stickiness.

Organic mountain ash, phytoactive ginger and ginkgo all get to work on stimulating circulation and aiding the detox process, while organic fig and green coffee strengthen skin. It also does a kick-ass job at standing in for your quotidian moisturizer.

The bottle suggests applying the lotion after a good dry brushing for the best results.

How could we forget the best part? We were down two full pounds after one week of diligent use.

Nude Skincare
www.nudeskincare.com
Available at Barneys, Space NK and Sephora

Socialite Gloss

We have more than enough vinyl makeup bags to last a lifetime, which is why this Smashbox makeup set has caught our eye. Not only is the “Socialite” color scheme perfect for evenings out, but the woven leather clutch is something we might actually use.

Conceptual Gifting

DayNa Decker's eco-conscious yet elegant scents

WHAT: DayNa Decker's conceptual gift boxes

WHY: Because you want to send something besides flowers this time! Instead of opting for the standard scented candle, these boxes come filled with essence diffusers. Choose between Botanika with its mixture of amber, China musk and vanilla or the Daily-fave Couture (natch), a combination of Tuscan rose, violet and sandalwood. But it's the elaborate decorations like crystals, fresh moss, Manzanita branches and satin ribbons that will leave the real lasting impression. Plus, they can even be reused and are available in both clear lucite or black lacquer. While they'll be exclusively available to L.A. residents with hand delivery, luxe-lovers nationwide have an array of candles to choose from that are just as exquisitely packaged. Bonus: botanical wax and organic crackling EcoWood Wick.

Fashion Resurrection

Christie's to auction the sublimely avant-garde on October 30

(LONDON) After the international fashion week dust settles, those craving a taste of iconography needn't look any further than Christie's. On October 30, the auction house will host a retrospective auction of iconoclastic design. Resurrection: Avant-Garde Fashion, an extensive collection of 20th century fashion previously held in private hands, will be sold in London at the South Kensington saleroom. The auction includes items from designers from the 1960s to the 1990s who challenged cherished norms with new materials and innovative ways of cutting fabric. Pieces by Pierre Cardin, Paco Rabanne, André Courrèges, Rudi Gernreich, Ossie Clark, Vivienne Westwood, Norma Kamali, Azzedine Alaia, Gianni Versace and Issey Miyake will all go on the block.

Whether it's the pop art influence or the revival of architectural couture, the collection offers over 250 pieces of apparel, accessories and jewels. Estimates range from £500 to £10,000. Key items include Rabanne's aluminum riveted plate dress, Cardin's space age bubble cape and a rare gold leather evening dress from Versace. Expect a bidding war. (PS: You can bid on the Christie's website")

Fall 2008 Makeup Trend Report

(image from www.chanel.com)

If there is one word that sums up the makeup trends for fall 2008, it is "warmth". We had grey from fall 2007 and cool lilac and blue from spring 2008, and now we are greeted by opulent gold and red.


Fields of Gold

Chanel leads the pack with a collection with gold in the eye palette, lip gloss, face highlighter, and nail color. It is a decadent shade of gold, although it can be too warm for some complexions. If this is the case with you, items from Lavshuca (Grade Color Select in GD-1) and Shiseido The Makeup (Lip Gloss in G29 Mellow Gold) might suit you better.

(Lavshuca Grade Color Select in GD-1 (among swatches))
(image from www.kanebo-cosmetics.jp/lavshuca)

(Shiseido The Makeup Lip Gloss in G29 Mellow Gold)
(image from www.shiseido.co.jp/themakeup)

Gold is also seen in Vernis Crème de Nacres, two nail products in Lancôme's fall 2008 collection that are applied with a special applicator. (I am not entirely certain whether they are sold in North America, but they are already available in the UK.)

(Lancôme Vernis Crème de Nacres)
(image from www.lancome.jp)

Shades of Red

If you are fans of purples, there are still some nice shades from Givenchy, Clarins, Awake and Sonia Rykiel as these beautiful hues continue the trend in spring 2008. But many purples are taking on a much warmer tone for fall 2008 and turning into plum purples. We are also seeing shades of burgundy and red, which, just like gold, are the key shades for this fall.

For plum and burgundy, which still somewhat echo the spring trend, look into the palettes from Laura Mercier, EST, and Magie Deco:

(Laura Mercier Eye Color Trio in Mauve Sunset)
(image from www.lauramercier.com)

(EST Emotional Aura Eyes in 07)
(image from www.kao.co.jp/est)

(Magie Deco Shadow Brilliance in 021 Bordeaux Shadow)
(image from www.cosmedecorte.com/magiedeco)

Apart from gold, Chanel's fall 2008 collection also features delicious plums in Rouge Hydrabase in Fantastic Plum and Nail Colour in Fantastic.

While warmer reds are seen in major Japanese brands (like Lunasol and SUQQU below), Dior, always a trendsetter, features a muted warm red in 5-Colour Eyeshadow in #673 Earth Tones:

(image from www.kanebo-cosmetics.jp/lunasol)

(image from www.suqqu.com/japan.html)

(Dior 5-Color Eyeshadow in 673 Earth Tones)
(image from www.sephora.com)

Mix & Match

If you love experimenting with makeup trends, why not try wearing gold and warm purples/reds to sport both trends at the same time?

(Magie Deco Pure Color in GD076 and RD470)
(image from www.cosmedecorte.com/magiedeco)

(Cosme Decorte AQ Shadow Supreme in 015)
(image from www.cosmedecorte.com/aq)

(Maquillage Forming Shiny Eyes in 54)
(image from www.shiseido.co.jp/mq)

If reds around the eyes don't suit you, try gold with deep cool violets. It is a beautiful and modern way to wear violets. I am thinking about trying the items below:

(Maquillage Forming Shiny Eyes in 52)
(image from www.shiseido.co.jp/mq)

(Lavshuca Dual Prism Eyes in PU-1 (among the swatches))
(image from www.kanebo-cosmetics.jp/lavshuca)

Last but not least, the two makeup looks for fall/holiday 2008 from Shiseido The Makeup epitomise the key trends for the coming seasons:


(Eyeshadow Quad Shimmer in Q11 (left) and Q12 (right))
(image from www.shiseido.co.jp/themakeup)


This season, I think I will be trying slightly deeper purples (than the ones I have been wearing) as well as platinum golds (not bronze golds). What about you? What shades are tempting you?

Moisture Maximizers

Follow these 5 tips to ditch winter itchy skin

You could wear nothing but cashmere from head to toe. But there’s a less expensive way to address autumn’s dry-skin miseries: Maximize the moisture level in your skin. Here are five good ways to maximize your dry skin in cold weather.

Lather, rinse–and do not repeat. Hot water removes natural oils from your skin that help keep it hydrated. So those long, hot baths rob your skin of moisture, making it dry and itchy. The cure? Shower in lukewarm water for no more than 10 minutes.

Slather while damp. Moisturizers work by trapping water in your skin’s outer layers, so use creams and lotions immediately after exiting the shower. Give yourself a quick towel-dry so you’re not dripping wet and then coat yourself with moisturizer. Need industrial-strength help? Go for ointments or creams rather than lotions, which include more water than oil. (You might even dab on some baby oil or petroleum jelly.)

Spring for a humidifier. In the summertime, your skin can replenish itself by soaking up the moisture in the air. But when the mercury falls, so does the natural humidity. Add the drying effects of indoor heating, and you have trouble. Solution: When you jack up the thermostat, turn on a humidifier, as well.

Drink water. Hydrate your skin from the inside by downing at least eight 8-ounce glasses a day.

Switch soaps. If, despite your best efforts, you’re still plagued by the winter pricklies, switch to a milder soap (look for “moisturizing” on the label). Your choice should also be fragrance-free–it’ll be less irritating.

Was It Something You Ate?

Certain foods can cause flare-ups of contact dermatitis, the catchall term for skin irritation and itching, reports a recent University of Louisville study. Anything related to balsam, including tomatoes, colas, chocolate, and spices such as vanilla, can cause problems. And products containing citrus may also be troublemakers. Try eliminating these foods from your diet for a month. If your condition improves, you’ll know that you’re sensitive to balsam and that you need to avoid them. (Yes, that means chocolate and vanilla. Strawberry, anyone?) If you find that you’re missing your favorite goodies, add them back one at a time and see how your body reacts.

Re: Girlpaint

Gentlemen’s Delight

Can Smythson do any wrong? Check out its latest pobject (that’s Chic for “posh object”), a Mondrian-inspired watch and accessory cabinet featuring a “watch” rocker with secret storage space. Those deep drawers will hold belts and sunglasses, and there are plenty of cubbies for ties and cufflinks. The only drawback? These won’t be available in stores until October…

It list

The buzz on the hottest goods du jour

1. L’OCCITANE – HONEY & LEMON, EAU DE TOILETTE
A delicious, sparkling blend of fruity fresh and sweet notes packaged in an enticing honeycomb bottle. Irresistible!

2. ESCADA – MOON SPARKLE, EAU DE TOILETTE
Fruity overtones combine with floral undertones to create a fragrance that’s refreshing and alluring. For the sophisticated, independent woman.

3. REVLON – COLORSTAY MINERAL BLUSH, 10 HONEY
This baked powder blush blends easily to give you sheer, radiant colour. Enriched with rose quartz, mother of pearl and topaz.

4. L’ORÉAL – RESIST & SHINE, UV COLOR PROTECT, 180
Enjoy rich, anti-fade lacquered nails that stay shiny with a UV filter that resists sunlight and shock up to seven days.

5. MOLTON BROWN – MOISTURE LOCK, 24HR REPLENISHER
Intense hydration for dry, sensitive skin. Smoothes and minimises fine lines, leaving skin soft and supple through the day.

6. LANCÔME – POUDRE ELEPHANT TEINT, BRONZER POWDER SUN OF INDIA, 01
Get a luxurious Indian summer glow with this multi-purpose bronzer with an elephant motif. Comes

Nirmal Jain

Take 10 Years Off Your Age Right Now, Pt. 3

And a few more simple tips that will help you look younger starting today:

LIPS

• Use lipgloss or sheer lipstick–NOT lipstick. Use a shade just deeper than your natural lip color. Avoid ‘cool’ colors and dark colors. Instead, choose a sheer pink, peach, rose, mauve or berry
• Apply lipbalm or clear gloss when not wearing colored gloss. This will keep your lips moist and young-looking all the time

More Anti-Aging Tips:

• Take care of your skin by cleansing, moisturizing and nourishing it every day using good skin care–P.S. good does not necessarily mean expensive
• Wear SPF 15 (or higher) sunscreen every day
• Drink a gallon of water every day
• Go for a walk at lunch, shoot for 3 times a week. It’s a great excuse to catch up on your window shopping; just don’t take your wallet–debt makes you look and feel old
• Smile, or better yet, laugh–a lot
• Eat plenty of protein, complex carbs, fruits and vegetables
• Manage your stress levels. Take up knitting, painting, piano, yoga or meditation. Find something you like to do and ‘just do it’
• Get plenty of sleep–sleep is a proven fountain of youth

Re: Girlpaint

Take 10 Years Off Your Age Right Now, Pt. 2

A few more simple tips to follow that will help you look younger starting today:

EYES

• Groom your eyebrows. Pluck only stray hairs (those are the ones that fall outside your natural eyebrow)
• Apply eyeliner to the top lash line only. And unless you have medium-or-dark toned skin, DO NOT use black eyeliner. Brown, grey, plum and green are better for fair-to-light toned skin
• Apply two coats of mascara maximum. One coat for daytime wear is best
• Curl your lashes. If you don’t like the traditional lash curlers, use an electric version. Sephora’s is terrific and a great deal at $16
• Avoid shimmery eyeshadow
• EXCEPTION to above tip: Use a shade-lighter-than-your-skin-tone colored shimmery eyeshadow applied with a light touch to your brow bone (the area just below the outter two-thirds of the eyebrow), AND apply a dab of shimmery ivory shadow to the inner corner of your eyes. These tips really open up the eye area–young!
• Also, avoid ‘cool’ eyeshadow colors like grey, blue, true green. Opt for colors like pink, peach, gold, warm greens (olive, moss, sage), plum, ivory, brown, taupe

M•A•C Cosmetics Launches India

August 8th 2008, Mumbai – One of the most influential and popular forces in contemporary cosmetics, M∙A•C Cosmetics announced the official launch of its India websitewww.maccosmetics.in . The website is specially designed for its Indian customers and aims to ensure they have access to and receive the latest information on their favourite products, collections and events in their cities.

www.maccosmetics.in is easy to navigate and possesses a host of interactive features. Customers and fans can register on the website to receive email notifications on the latest news, current collections, available products, new product launches, in-store events and new store openings taking place throughout India. The website also links members directly to the brand's commercial site, www.maccosmetics.com, where additional features including detailed product information, beauty trends, worldwide stores locations, tips and advice from M∙A•C Artists, face charts and looks for the latest collections are available.

"The , www.maccosmetics.in site reflects the Indian market trend, which is moving toward an online and tech-savvy age, just as it is globally. Our customers like to know the latest that's happening at M∙A•C in their city and more importantly, how they can be part of it. With this website we're able to give them that information so they continue to enjoy the M∙A•CExperience straight away, even from the comfort of their homes or offices." explains Laurent Cathala, M∙A•C Brand Manager, Middle East & India.

Fashiontv

Lip Noir!

Everyone loved YSL’s black bobs and mod noir lips…but what’s on the runway rarely translates to reality without some creative license. Enter Lancôme’s new artistic director of makeup Aaron de Mey. He created a lip set to combine the new Color Fever Gloss in Piha Black with the line’s Piha Red lipstick (named after a beach near his New Zealand hometown) so more daring chicettes can whip up their own wearable version of the trend. Debuting in November, only 500 sets will be released at $48 each. Get on the Bloomingdale’s waiting list now by calling 212-705-2886. Or battle it out for orders online and at Lancôme boutiques this fall. Besides, you’ll get an eye gloss out of it, too–de Mey uses the Piha Black to vamp up those smokey eyes. Question is, will any of the lucky beauty editors who receive advanced samples rock it during Fash Week?

Take 10 Years Off Your Age Right Now, Pt. 1

Properly applied make up can make you look fabulous. But unless it’s done the right way and using the right amount, make up can actually add years to your face.

As a professional makeup artist, I’ve learned a few simple tips to follow that will help you look younger starting today:

FACE

• Moisturize your skin–face and neck–with a light moisturizer before you apply your makeup…and allow it to sink in, about 5-10 minutes
• Apply makeup primer BEFORE any makeup. The least expensive and one of the most effective I’ve found (it rivals Smashbox): Monistat Anti-Chafing Gel. It contains the EXACT same ingredients as most of the best makeup primers. Plus, you can pick up a tube at most drugstores for $5
• Apply your concealer BEFORE foundation. Using your finger or a concealer brush, pat a little concealer under your eyes, around your nose and on any blemishes or discoloration. Concealer before foundation prevents you applying too much foundation.
• Apply less foundation. And switch to mineral foundation. The better brands and newest formulations (Jane Iredale, Everyday Minerals are some of my favorites) give excellent NATURAL coverage with a light application
• Apply blush to the apple (round part that pops out when you smile) of your cheeks. For a youthful glow, use a cheek stain or cream blush in a pink, rosy or peach-y color
• Blend your makeup well and use a light touch.

Re: Girlpaint
Photos: Khush

In Memoriam: Paul Starr

© Patrick McMullan

A favorite of Angelina Jolie, Jennifer Garner and Lindsey Lohan, Starr’s work appeared on myriad magazine covers and editorials, and his book, On Beauty: Conversations with Thirty Celebrated Women, included gorgeous subjects like Iman, Michelle Phiffer, and Salma Hayek. Here’s some of his best work…

Lay your foundation right - Myth Breakers

Celebrity makeup artist Mickey Contactor's afternoon of myth-breaking and revelations. Makeup and Pictures By Khush (me) and my team of photographers.

Myth 1

Applying foundation is an art few can master.

"Untrue," enthuses Mickey. "All it requires is some practice. If you have never used foundation before and have just purchased one, than I won't want you to wear it and step out on day one. I would instead suggest that you try on a few times at home until you are satisfied with the look it gives you."

Agreed

Myth 2

Powder or fluid foundation can be used anytime of the day

That's true partially. "Foundation should give you a natural look. For beginners I suggest that they use powder foundation because it's easier to apply. M.A.C's Studio Fix powder is an easy foundation to wear during the day and night, especially for working women who don't have time. Once you know how much powder suits your face, it will takes literally five minutes to dab it on," he says. Reserve the liquid foundation for evening or night. And if you use liquid foundation you also need the powder to set it," he informs.

Myth 3

Dusky or dark skin tone should use more foundation to lighten the skin tone
Untrue.

Mickey, explains, "The first thing to do is to even out the facial skin tone. So, you have to first use a concealer to hide the dark circles and a then a darker tone of Studio Fix powder to even out the colour all over the face. The trick is to use it sparingly and at the same time make the face look smooth and one tone."

He deftly uses the brush to give my face an even tone.

Mickey says....

>> Buy the right shade

Go to a make-up store and try out different foundation shades. Don't stick to just one shade just because someone suggested it's good. Ask the counter girls to show you at least three different shades that work for you. Try on all three. Walk around the store with the foundation on for a while. This is because foundation oxidizes on some skin. If you think it's going darker, you have to counter balance it with the right colour. So take time to choose the right colour.

>> Know your skin type

Oily skin: A powder base foundation works because that will keep the skin dry.
Dry skin: Use a foundation with a slight emollient in it, which is a slightly oily texture. Dry skins tends to look a bit weather beaten with the foundation on so what you need to moisturise your skin really well before applying the foundation.

Mixed skin: Check if you have a T-zone (which is the forehead and the nose). Don't use the moisturiser on that area but use it on the rest of the face which is dry. Then apply either powder or fluid foundation.

Allure Passes The Mic some Blogettes

Today, Allure's Daily Beauty Reporter, Jessica Matlin, passed the mic to some of her fellow bloggettes - to find out which skin care products they're obsessing over at the moment.

Blogger Round-Up: Best In Skincare

Skin-care commercials make some pretty big promises, so when a product actually makes good on one, well, people tend to shout the news from the rooftops?especially beauty bloggers.

I thought it would be fun to pass the mic and hear what fellow bloggettes are obsessing over at the moment. Here's what they told me:

La Roche-Posay Anthelios SX Daily Moisturizing Cream. Erika from makeupbag.net, just can't get enough of this sunscreen. "It's light like a moisturizer and contains Mexoryl SX to protect from UVA rays," she says. I'd like to add: It also makes a fantastic makeup base.

Origins Never a Dull Moment Skin Brightening Face Polisher with Fruit Enzymes Amber from beautybloggingjunkie.com is crushing on this gentle scrub with apricot and mango seeds and papaya extract. "I've repurchased at least nine of these, and I always have a backup at the ready," she says. Why so loyal, Amber? "Per eyebrow guru/makeup artist Elke von Fruedenberg's advice, I've been exfoliating my brows with it. A weekly rubdown makes the sparse spots grow in quickly and sloughs off dead skin around the follicle, making strays easier to pluck."

IS Clinical Super Serum As a former beauty editor in New York, Nadine of jolienadine.com has seen enough product to think twice before speaking in hyperbole. When she called this serum a "miracle in a bottle," I paid attention. "It combats hyperpigmentation, acne, and fine lines while increasing collagen production and pumping skin full of protective antioxidants." In short, Nadine says, "It just works!"

Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Swivel Stick Daneen at spoiledpretty.com loves this stuff. "I use it all over my body?it locks in moisture for hours and seems to last a lifetime," she says. She especially loves it as lip balm. Even better? "It smells just like a frothy black and white milkshake." Yum!

Thanks, ladies! Let's get together again soon....

MAC Overrich

Fall for luscious. The Cult of Cherry inspired Overrich, eight pigments that keep you de-lovely and delicious as ever. Oxidized, rich-metal hues are a cakewalk to apply, for eyes, face and all the sweet spots. These Overrich pigments satisfy an appetite for glamour.

PIGMENT: Pigment is a highly concentrated loose color powder that contains ingredients to help it adhere to the skin. Pigment comes in an excellent range of colors. Use to create a subtle wash of colour or an intense effect. Pigment does not streak or cake, is easy to blend and long-lasting.

* Blonde's Gold: Light tan with gold and white pearl (frost)
* Antique Green: turquoise green with gold pearl (frost)
* Vintage gold: Tarnished green with green pearl (frost)
* Museum bronze: Rich taupe with gold pearl (frost)
* Mauvemnet: Cool taupe with gold pearl (frost)
* Mega-Rich: Frosty burnt orange with gold pearl (frost)
* Copperbeam: Rusted brown with red pearl (frost)
* Heritage Rouge: Deep burgundy with red and brown pearl (frost)

The official launch is slated for August 21st, but the collection is available for purchase right now on maccosmetics.com. Ssssshhh...don't tell anyone. This will be our little secret.

Posted by Daneen :) at Tuesday, August 19, 2008 0 comments

How-To: Emma Stone's Flawless Face

Fab knows all about Emma Stone's wow factor. And you may remember the up and coming actress from the delightfully crass Superbad. Now, she's starring in two just-about-to-be-released wacky films: The Rocker and The House Bunny, both of which the inner party-girl in me is compelled to see.

At a special screening of The House Bunny, Stone looked gorgeous with a peachy-pink glow on her cheeks and lips. Those green eyes sparkled with smoky blue shadows, and that complexion — completely flawless. To get this look, read more.

• FACE: Start by applying a medium coverage matte, yet radiant foundation like MAC's Select SPF 15 ($26).
• CHEEKS: With a brush, hit the apples of your cheeks with Smashbox's Blush Rush in Heartbreak ($24), a soft dusty rose. I also like softly sweeping a bit of color around the hair and jawlines to create a cohesive look.
• EYES: For the boldest part of Emma's look, go with a nice creamy black eye liner on the top and bottom lash lines. I like Stila's Kajal Eye Liner in Onyx ($16.50). To achieve her multihued smoky eye, try an eyeshadow kit like Too Faced's Smoky Eye Palette ($32). Start by sweeping the Cream shade from the lash line to the brow to create a base. Next, apply Midnight (dark violet blue) to your lids. Smudge your black liner with Midnight on top and bottom lash lines. Use a little Wicked Green (dark emerald) on just the outer contours of your lids for depth and drama. Apply Sugar Cookie (peach-champagne shimmer) on the brow bone and inner corners of the eyes for a soft glow. Finish with a true black thickening mascara.
• LIPS: Finish with a sheer low-shine cream lipstick like Urban Decay's Lipstick in Jailbait ($22).

brown sugar: lancome crayon kajal amber night

Seeing the beauty trends descend on us from the runways for the last few seasons, I've been feeling an overall sense of deja vu, a la Bill Murray in Groundhog Day. There's just some trends that seem to be here to stay, at least for fall anyway – the bold lip, the smokey eye and the statement brow, to name a few. Another to add to the list is the bronzed eye, which never seems to go out of style and has really become a new classic. And I for one, couldn't be happier about it. But rather than an all-out copperized eyelid, I like to add just a smidge of bronze to the lashline with a shimmery-brown pencil and my pick of choice currently is Lancome's Crayon Kajal in Amber Night from the fall 2008 Maharani Jewels collection. Amber is an apt description for this crayon, since it's a really lovely burnt copper shade that verges on a rust (don't let the photo fool you - it really doesn't do it justice). It looks really subtle and flattering applied just to the upper lids and so much more interesting than basic black.

Going Native

Pride and preen come together in this stunning beauty feature inspired by three quintessential symbols of our national glory — the lotus, the peacock and the tiger. Softly pretty, exquisitely exotic or wildly sexy, choose from three drop-dead gorgeous looks. Be the face of India! Lotus Bloom Subtly sculpted cheeks in pink with shades of strawberry dusted over the eyes creates a petal-soft, fresh look. So pretty! Kryolan Supracolor Palette; M.A.C Lip Palette; Revlon Glossy Licious; M.A.C Strobe Cream; Bobbi Brown Cream Blusher, B01; Yves Saint Laurent Mascara Volume Effet; Elle 18 Nail Enamel PK 91. Peacock Preen Nothing like contrasting blue, green and purple to make the eyes pop. Add a touch of gold for that exotic sheen. Eye-catching! M.A.C Fluidline Blacktrack, Uppity; Yves Saint Laurent Mascara Volume Effet; Lakmé Gloss; Nars Gold Polish, VOW Gold Glitter. Verve's Makeup Tips Published: Volume 16, Issue 8, August, 2008

Enhance those Peepers!

Ace Make up artist Cory Walia cues Rakhee Kaushik into the right makeup tricks to gorgeous eyes…

EYES WISE

Almond-Shaped Eyes:
Use a black eyeliner on the upper eyelid and a kajal pencil to line the inside of the lower eyelid. This gives a beautiful definition to the eyes…

Deep-Set & Small Eyes:
Always use a thin eyeliner on small or deep set eyes, under the lower lashes. Shimmery textures and light colour eyeshadows bring out deep set eyes. A thin eyeliner under the lower lashes is a good way to make small eyes look bigger. A white pencil subtly used inside the lower lid opens up the eyes. Dark colours and matte textures make eyes look bigger.

TIPS:

• Deep-set eyes can be underplayed by using a bit of a dark shade in the inner corner of the eye.
• For small eyes with thick lashes, apply loads of mascara. You can even glam up in the evening by using stick-on lash extensions.
• Liquid eyeliner gives a good finish but requires a steady hand.

SHAPELY EYEBROWS:
Shape Ace:
Arched eyebrows give attitude and sophistication to a face. The arch can be redefined with an eyebrow filler in brown or brownish black.

Trim Edge:
Sparse eyebrows can be filled with the same type of eyebrow filler in brown or brownish black.

Thick Trick:
Dense eyebrows can be made to look shapelier with the help of tweezing and threading. Or use a lighter shade of hair colour to lift the colour of thick eyebrows.

TIPS:

• Whether the eyebrows are thin, thick or full, they should always be impeccably shaped and stray-hair free
• If blessed with shapely eyebrows, then tend to them by constantly brushing with a bit of transparent mascara or gel.

Now that you have the tricks at your fingertips, get ready to speak with your eyes…

All in the Eyes

Make-up artist Clint Fernandes talks about make up for your eyes and getting the perfect look for those peepers…Pics by Khush Singh

Eye: Smoky and subtle eyes with loads of mascara will rule the roost. Subtle and natural eyes will also be the trend.

Colour Palette: Peach, Bronze, woody browns, lilac, pale coral, exotic floral and sea colours in neutral shades. Silver, gold and smoky black add a dash of drama.

Summery Touch: A touch of eyeliner and a dash of brown-black mascara with brighten your eyes.

Style Wise: If you want to highlight your eyes, do up your lips in neutral or subtle shades. However, bright lips can also be matched with dramatic dark eyeshadow during the night. Finish with smudge-proof mascara on the top lashes.

Dramatic Eyes Look!

Get your eyes to speak for you…be ready to flutter them, root somebody on the spot with them, and seduce your man with them…Make up maestro, Clint Fernandes cues Rakhee Kaushik on the dramatic n the trendiest eye makeup… Read on and prepare to become the siren as you experiment with each look…Plus see how I achieved each from my Portfolio pics.

BENGAL MAGIC ( a le Sharmila Tagore, in the 60’s look)

* Apply liquid kohl on the upper and lower lids in an almond shape
* Extend the corner of the upper eyeliner towards the eyebrows, thinning it as it goes upwards
* Set it well by applying black eyeshadow on the lines.



Colours: Kohl pencil, liquid black, the smudged kohl look
Moments: Catwalks, Glitzy nights
Ultra Glam: Use black eyeshadow sparingly on the outer and inner corners of the upper eyelid.

FUTURISTIC LOOK
Colour the lid and brow bone area in a single colour
Colours: Any pale colour, or in darker hues, aqua green and peacock blue.
Moments: More popular at international fashion dos.
Ultra Glam: You can colour forehead and temple too for a hip tweak.













CLEOPATRA LOOK

* Brush a light eyeshadow over the entire lid and blend it upwards towards the brow bone. A shade like beige, taupe or cream is perfect.
* Apply a rich dark shadow to the contour and blend into the crease.
* From the inner corner of your eyelid, draw a thin line using a dark eyeliner and thicken it gradually when you reach the outer corner. Sweep it upwards further.


* Do the same thing on the lower lash line, extend it upward to meet the upper line.
* Finish with two generous coats of mascara.

Colours: Bold sea blue, yellow green, royal blue, beige and deep jewel colours
Moments: Red carpet events, catwalks and big night dos
Ultra Glam: Apply a heavy coat of mascara on the upper and lower lashes for maximum impact.

WINGED LOOK

* Start from the upper lid. Draw a thick or delicate ‘wing’ using an eyeliner. Repeat on lower lid.
* Apply Mascara and further define the ‘wings’ depending on how thick you want them.

Colours: Shades of black, metallic colours.
Moments: Day dos and parties.
Ultra Glam: Loads of mascara










GAMINE LOOK

* Shade your entire lid – from the lashes to brow bone in taupe or neutral toned eyeshadow
* Highlight with creamy pale or white eyeshadow for a subtly defined monochromatic wash look.
* Apply black kohl/pencil on your lash line. Sweep it across your upper lid, making it thicker over your pupil area and tapering it towards the temple
* Line the inner rim of the lower lid with a white, pale pink or pale blue pencil

Colours: Light jewel tones
Moments: Catwalks, champagne-soaked events.
Ultra Glam: Define your pencil line with a touch of liquid liner if you want a stronger look. Put loads of mascara on the upper lashes.
Savvy Fashion & Glamour. Pics Khush Singh

Here comes the bride - Desi Style

It's the one day in your life when everything, just everything has to be perfect. From your hair to your make up to your clothes to your shoes. And its no easy task ensuring that you look that way. A lot of careful planning and coordinating goes into creating the perfect look for the perfect day.

Scary? Yeah. But not if you follow these simple practical tips to get your make-up in order for the big day.

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Do go in for a prior consultation with your beautician at least a week before the wedding. Take along your wedding outfit and samples of the jewellery you would be wearing. Another good idea is to take along references of looks you like from magazines and ads of the kind of look you like, so that the beautician is not working blind towards creating your look.
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The most basic must do's are to coordinate colours. If your outfit is a blazing pink, you cannot dare to wear red lipstick and nail polish.
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Do get a great beautician and hairstylist. No point in settling for a budget beautician when the look of an entire lifetime is at stake.

When you plan your make-up think about the camera. You don't want to look too chalky or pasty or even sallow. Here from the experts, is all that goes into making a bride look like a bride.

"Every bride is unique, therefore we try and give a unique look to each bride that is distinctively her," says Doris Godambe, hairstyle expert, who works as a team with her husband Bharat Godambe. Much sought after by brides for their ability to make a bride look like a movie actress, the duo have done the make up and hairstyling for most of the recent brides in Mumbai.

"A good clear skin is a great base to work on," says Bharat. The first thing to do is the base. A well applied base, can even out your complexion, cover spots and pigmentation and conceal dark circles. Use a yellow based concealer for heavy duty coverage. Do use your base as a method of contouring your face, with the help of darker and lighter shadowing. You can create the illusion of a perfect oval face, you can make your nose look perfect and your chin a little less dominating if you use base and contouring well.

For a bride, make-up should always err towards creating the illusion of perfection. Says Clint Fernandes, make up expert, "The look right now is glitter and sheen. A great dramatic look would be one with high gloss and sheen over eyelids and lips." But for those who like their look a little more traditional, the matte finish make-up is a great option.

DO insist on water resistant and long lasting make-up, you don't want it to melt in the hot light of the cameras. And waterproof mascara is a must have, after all, you wont look great racoon eyed after the bidai. For a bride, the traditional heavily kohl lined eyes is a great look to have. With clever make-up application you can make your eyes the perfect almond or doe eyed shape.

DO emphasise the socket of the eye with subtle play of dark shadow on the socket and highlight just under the brow bone. If you could, do go in for false lashes and then brush a coat of mascara through them to make them look a little natural. Contour your cheeks with a natural shade of blush with a subtle highlighter to add that bridal glow.

Your lips are an important part of the look, as important as the eyes. Line your lips with a lipliner a shade darker than the lipstick you've chosen and then fill in the lipstick with a brush. Blot it gently with a tissue and powder with pressed powder and repeat the liner and lipstick routine. This will help your lipstick last longer.

Another point to remember is to make sure your neck, your back and waist (basically any part of the body that shows through your ghagra choli ensemble) are all the same skin tone. Therefore do use body make up to even out skin tone and cover blemishes.

Go ahead, be a beautiful bride.