WE'VE MOVED!!!

Hey everyone yes the blog has moved!!!  To keep up with all the posts go to www.justbbeautiful.com !!!!!

Breaking News!! Designer Alexander McQueen Commits Suicide

The Associated Press is now reporting that 40 year old designer Alexander McQueen has commited suicide in his London home.  Famously know for his over the top fashions and creating one of kind garments for Lady Gaga and Rihanna the fashion world mourns this loss.

Our hearts go out to his family and they will be in our prayers.

New Tutorial: Black To Basics

In my boredom in all this snow (eastcoast weather) I decided to do this basic black smokey eye.  It doesn't get more classic than this...enjoy!!  Remember to BLEND BLEND BLEND with a look like this, be sure that there are no harsh lines.



Products Used:
Coastal Scents Gel Liner in Black
Coastal Scents 28 Neutral Pallette (Soft Brown)
MAC Fashion Patch Quad (Black Only)
Ungaro Eyeshadow in Champagne
MAC Mineralize Satin Finish NC50
MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Med Deep
MAC Mineralize Blush Love Joy
NARS Blush Crazed
MAC Lipstick Fresh Brew
MAC Lipliner Cork
MAC Dazzleglass Creme Sublime Shine
*Lashes are from my line of human hair lashes (Due to launch in May 2010)

Pallettes Anyone???

So in my attempt to have more efficient way to store my makeup and stop spilling pigments all over my office I have decided to have as much makeup as possible in pallette form. Of course this will be a work in progress simply because pressing pigments is quite a job especially when you have so many that need to be pressed, that is why I am glad I have sites like Coastal Scents to help in this long overdue process.  They sell everything needed to make this process as easy as possible, including handy how-to videos.  So I will be making an updated makeup collection very soon and expect to see tons of pallettes and more organized items.   The only thing I had to think twice about putting in a pallette was my lipsticks because it requires me to melt them down first and then pour into the pans for a pallette, I was a bit worried about the consistency but so far so good.  So I will be sure to keep you updated with my progress but I am sure of one thing having 80% of my items in pallette form will definitly make things so much easier.

*For more information on pallettes and to purchase supplies check out Coastal Scents and this video on pressing pigments.

Sephora....Makeup Rewards?

So this blog is dedicated to Sephora and there 'Rewards' program or lack of.  I can't belive that in this age of professional discounts that Sephora is the last of major stores to follow suit.  I guess what prompted me to write this is my new Back Stage card that I just received from Makeup For Ever which entitles me to a 40% professional discount but here's the catch it can only be used at the Makeup Forever boutique or by ordering over the phone.  This becomes an issue to me because I live within a mile of a Sephora store in which I cannot use my card...I just find it to be utter BS!!  Come on Sephora get with the times and start honoring some of the professional discounts these companies give out.  I know for one thing I am going to start purchasing my cosmetic needs from other companies and cosmetic boutiques that are willing to give out actual discounts as opposed to 1oz samples.  So there you have it my rant for the day and if you feel the same please leave a comment and express how you feel.

Product Alert! MAC's Spring Color Forcast

Yet another must have collection from MAC cosmetics!  These collections feature colors from four different groups Pink's, Coral, Plum's, and Amber.  The Amber collection to me is just blah....a few neutrals that I can really do without, but I will say that the quads in the pink and plum collection is a must have.  For those die hard MAC fans this is something to add to your makeup collection but for the pros I say save your money.  You know there are only 1 or 2 shades that will actually make it to your kit and MAC will surly discontinue them before you know it. Boooooooooo!!!  Then again I'm still pissed that they won't bring back Studio Mist Foundation.  Now will I get a quad or two for personal use yes I will but will it make my pro kit, not really.  Check out the video.....regardless of the collection MAC knows how to make a commercial!!!

For more information and to shop the collection check out MAC Cosmetics until next time Be Beautiful

Makeup Fab: Michelle Williams

This past friday Michelle Williams lit The Empire State Building red in honor of the Go Red For Women events taking place across the country and look absolutly beautiful doing so.  Ms Williams took the big apple by storm with her spiky short cut and fierce makeup.  Honestly this is the best I've seen her look in ages, I love everything about this look from top to bottom.  She is giving me a flawless face, fab hair and a sexy red dress.  Michelle is giving us all Makeup Fab!!

Take note of the sculpted cheek....

*Photos by Getty Images

Product Alert: Kim Kardashian the fragrance

$50 1.7oz. Eau de Parfum Spray

$65 3.4oz. Eau de Parfum Spray

After much anticipation 2010 finally brings us Kim Kardashian the Frangrance, and baby let me tell you it does not disappoint.  First off everything about this scent is S..E..X..Y to the 10th degree, from the ad, featuring Kim herself, to the actual fragrance.  With hints of jasmine and tonka bean this fragrance is perfect for an intiment night alone with that special someone.  Although while on my shopping trip at Sephora I did hear that many thought the fragrance was a copy of Poision by DIOR and I must say I don't think so.  I remember DIOR's Poision that was my scent back in the day with my tight booty jeans and heels (=irresistable) and I really don't see the simalarity at all.  It is now one of my top scents and is as sexy as the creator herself but DIOR it is not this is a fragrance that stands on it's own.  So if you would like to try the new scent by Kim K stop by your nearest Sephora and geta  sample but trust you will go back for the full size

Available exclusively at Sephora

Here is Kim looking Fab at the official debut of her new fragrance in South Beach Miami (Photo: Getty Images)

Juice Beauty Cleansing Gel

So this product is one of my January Favorites for 2010 and I have been using it faithfully for the past 3 months.  I have to say that for a few years now I have been a die hard Neutrogena fan and have even recommended there products to friends and clients alike.  Now things have changed Juice Beauty is now my TOP face cleanser, this stuff is organic and amazing. So lets go over the pros, it is so very deep cleansing and gets out all the dirt and grim on my face especially after a long day of running around and working.  My skin feels silky and squeaky clean but with every pro there is a con.  The con's of this product is this, I would not use this unless I had very oily skin, NOT combination skin but oily skin because it really does take out all that excess oil so if you have any dry patches it will really dry you out.  The smell is not that appealing so that is another thing that you have to get use to but other than those two things this is an oily girl's dream.  My 6oz bottle has lasted me 3 months (twice a day use) as you only need 1 pump per use.  My acne is getting under control and I just may expand and try other products from Juice Beauty.  So this definitly gets a thumbs up!

6oz. $22 from Sephora

Makeup Fab: Coastal Scent's Swiss Chocolate Shadow

Not many shadows really catch my eye but every now and again there is that one that makes you really stand up and take notice.  If you haven't heard of Coastal Scents then now is the time to find out.  There products afre really making a buzz on the professional scene with makeup artist and everyday women alike.  I must say that the one standout product is there eye shadow, Swiss Chocolate to be exact.  It's a dead ringer for the more expensive MAC brand and has more pigment to boot.  A rich luster, deep chocolate color and pearly sheen makes this a universal shade that flatters every skin tone.  This shade is definitly one that I keep in my kit as a go to color for bridal and special events.  With a price tag of $7.95 this is a must have item, keep it loose or press your pigment and keep it in a pallette for easy transportation.  Until next time Be Beautiful everyone!!

Makeup Fab:Beyonce's Heat Commercial

Everyone knows that whenever Mrs. Carterr does something she does it better than the rest.  Check Bey's newest commercial for her new fragrance Heat.  This look is fierce and most importantly it's makeup fab!!!

Product Review: Carols Daughter Sexy Belly

So I know I haven't put up many bath and body product reviews because for a while nothing has really caught my attention.......that is until I tried Sexy Belly from Carol's Daughter.  First off I am surprised that I was even able to score this magic in a jar because it is usually sold out EVERYWHERE!  What is Sexy Belly?  This 100% natural product reminds me of a very luxurious body butter, it is vitamin rich has shea and cocoa butter which improves skins elasticity.  The scent is light not overpowering, I even wear my usual perfumes and body sprays with no interferance of the product.  It's recommended for sensitive skin and for mommies to be to prevent and lighten strech marks.  I think the product is a winner and especially with all this snow and harsh winter weather.  So there you have it Carol's Daughter Sexy Belly $17.00 for an 8oz jar but this product tends to sell out quickly so be sure to buy more than one at a time.  Until next time Be Beautiful

Product Review: Temptu Airbrushing System

There has been so much talk about this new Temptu system, I just had to get the product myself and try it out.  So here is my official take on the system..........And before you read this please keep in mind that I do use Temptu and have many of there products in my kit.

SAVE YOUR MONEY!!!  The only good thing I could find in this system is that they actually made a system affordable for women to use at home.  My issues are this there were too many steps just to get started, the noise level is off the charts for such a small system.  Now as a professional I have used many compressors that have there fair share of noise but this was just tooo much.  Now my biggest no no with the Temptu system is the selection of foundations and not being able to mix and get the correct color for my skintone.  Usually with airbrushing you can add drops of different foundations and mix to get your exact shade but that is not the case with this.  So I went through the one pod is too light then the next pod is too dark...........and layering the foundations is not an option either, I took this back to the store so quickly. 

Just know that I do love the Temptu products and I just think that they should refine the total package.  Make that compressor quiet, get a few more shades in the line since you can't mix them like other products and add an air pod in with the original package. 

So pair all of this along with the pricing and I will pass besides I am still keeping my fingers crossed that MAC will bring back Studio Mist foundation.  For now if I need airbrushing I will be mixing my drops or purchasing Dior Airbrush foundation.  Until next time Be Beautiful everyone!

Price: $225.00 for the system

          $55.00 for 2 pod refills keep in mind that the pods DO NOT come with the system

Bey vs. Riri

I knew it!!!!! While watching the Grammy's this past Sunday I knew there was something very familar about that little Versace number that Bey rocked during her performance. Well after TheYBF.com posted this 'Who Ran It' it was very clear. Looks like someones stylist should update themselves better, after all it is a fight to the finish with those two......


Until next time Be Beautiful

*Photos TheYBF.com

Grammy Glam!!!!

So what kind of beauty blogger would I be if I didn't give my thoughts on the looks that hit this year's Grammy's. All the biggest and brightest stars in music were there and although I would love to give my thoughts on everyone's fashion hits and misses I'm going to have to keep it to my standouts............

Oh Mrs. Carter(wearing Stephane Rolland)...I've seen Bey in much better looks than this one. To me it was a bit boring like we had seen her in this, and the two tone hair....I'll pass. But as usual the makeup is FLAWLESS and it is Beyonce so she gets a pass this time...... and only this time!!!

For me Pink was the standout of the night, I'm not sure who her dress was by the it looked absolutely FABULOUS on the red carpet! Loved the color and the structure of the dress, simple elegant makeup and her fab cut to top it off. Also her performance in my opinion was the standout of the night...let's be ready for others to fall in line and copy this high flying number. Hey she gets an A+ from me because she was able to do it in those stunning shoes......by the way if anyone knows the designer please let me know!!!!

Ms. Keri Baby!!! Lovely.....beautiful color and makeup of course is always on point

Katy Perry in Zac Posen No comment......

Fergie in a cobalt blue Pucci mini dress, fab look fun flirty perfect for the occasion

Taylor Swift in Kaufman Franco...congrats to Taylor who won Album of the year among other awards. Loving the look but I do wish that she had a little bit more fun with it, why is everyone in such a rush to look so grown?

Rihanna in Eli Saab...hands down she KILLED it from the makeup to the hair and dress. She is really on the couture scene hard and I loves it. I think her makeup look may just have to be my 1st video of the new year. Although I do wish she had performed....I can just imagine that outfit

Lady Gaga in Armani Prive'.......Oh what the hell did you expect! I am such a Gaga fan she can do no wrong in my eyes. This was who I waited for all night and she did NOT disappoint!!

So there you have my top picks for the night and of course there were other stunners but I must mention that I did miss Whitney & Mimi on the red carpet last night. Even though they were not nominated they are legends and an appearance would have been fab. But as usual until next time Be Beautiful!

*Photos by Getty Images

I haven't forgotten about you!!!!

Hey ladies and gents!! I just want to thank you all for all the emails and well wishes for the new year. Just so you know I haven't forgotten about you, I ruined my laptop and had to get another one. But the good news is that I have a fab new laptop and I will be back and better than ever with this thing. Sooooooooo starting tomorrow there will be regular posting and plenty of reviews to help you along this beauty road.

Upcoming Blogs:

Juicy Beauty....the results!!
Clean your makeup??
Grammy beauty!

Until then Be Beautiful everyone!

Makeup Fab: Rihanna

So last week Rihanna had her Rated R release party at M2 in NYC last week and I just had to post this pic. Now you would think that after all this time opne would get tired of the smokey eye look but this proves it that you can never get to much. Here is Riri pictured with L.A. Reid and I just love the entire look very laid back outfit with a FAB eye!! The one thing I will say about this look is that the pink look would have it pop even more! Take notes ladies...... until next time Just B Beautiful!!

MAC's Smoke & Diamonds Pics

Hey Luvlies!!! I decided to do a quick video to show you a look I wore to a friends party. That night I used Ben Nye's Final Seal to set the look and I am impressed with the way everything held up after hours in the club so thumbs up for that.

What I Used:
Graftobian HD Cream foundation
MAC Studio Fix powder NC50
MAC Love Joy blush (mineral)
MAC Smoke & Diamonds shadow (limited edition)
Black mineral shadow
Avon eyeliner & Mascara
Lashes Style 213 (*these are from my collection and will be available for sale in the near future)
MAC Dazzle Cream Sublime (my new neutral fav*)

Enjoy & until next time B Beautiful**

In My Kit:Fyrinnae Cosmetics

I thought I would share one of my newest favs when it comes to cosmetics and what's in my kit. About a year ago I discovered Fyrinnae (Fyeer-ih-nay) Cosmetics and I have been hooked ever since. First lets start with the 193 amazing eyeshadow colors and add to the mix a wide variety of intensely pigmented Lip Luster, City Glam glitters and so much more.


They are NOT a mineral makeup company but all of there cosmetics are vegan which makes them an excellent product to use on even the most sensitive of skin. The price points are great $5.25 for a full size loose eyeshadow and $9.00 for Ink Liner is just an example....


Below are pics of some of my favs that have become staple items in my kits, they look great on both warm and cool girls, add the right mixing medium and a whole new product emerges. Another great thing about this company is the way they describe in detail each item including ingredients and proper use. Oh and if you get a chance to order only one item make it the Glow Blush in Hypnotize it's an amazing dusty peach with a soft glow that is great for bridal. I end of having to give my brides samples and the site they love this shade so much!!! Not to mention the bronzer is my newest fav for contouring and highlighting......so if you haven't checked them out make sure you do so!!! Until next time B Beautiful!!

NYC Makeup Artist

The Ink Liners 23 colors to choose from

Kamikaze shadow

Biker Chic (you know I had to get it because of the name :)

Avenging Salem

Smashbox Pro Program!!!!

**NEWS ALERT** Smashbox cosmetics has just introduced there Pro program!!!
Professional makeup artists will receive special members-only benefits and discounts on Smashbox products. As a Smashbox PRO Artist, you will receive a discount on Smashbox products, a Smashbox PRO Artist membership card, and access to a Smashbox PRO Artist newsletter packed with the latest trends in makeup and professional artistry. The best part is that it's all free!! Check out the requirements for besoming a pro and sign up today! Kudos to Smashbox for there new pro program another card I will be proud to have :)

Smashbox PRO Artist - VIP (40% discount)
We require a COPY OF PHOTO ID plus 2 of the following:
o Valid union card
o Copy of a current agency ZED card OR comp card
o Copy of your business card
o 2 professional tear sheets that include your name

Smashbox PRO Artist - FREELANCER (30% discount)
We require a COPY OF PHOTO ID plus 2 of the following:
o Valid cosmetology OR esthetician license
o Professional letter of reference
o Copy of your business card
o Crew call list
o Valid makeup artistry certificate within the last 5 years

Smashbox PRO Artist - STUDENT (20% discount)*
*only valid while enrolled in school
We require BOTH of the following:
 Proof of current enrollment at one of the Smashbox approved locations
 Valid Photo ID

Click Here to download the application and become a Smashbox Pro now!!