There seem to be a million and one girls on youtube who do fashion and beauty tutorials, but this girl is one of my favorites! With 150 uploaded videos, she covers everything from applying the perfect smokey eyeshadow to obtaining tousled "bed-head" hair.
Recently she posted this tutorial about natural, glowing makeup. She has the perfect, flawless skin that so many Asian women seem to be blessed with, but this tutorial makes me believe I can actually achieve a similar look as well.
Check out this video and you'll be sure to pick up some great tips! If you're like me, you've always envied the actresses and models that seem to have a natural, fresh, effortless glow. This video really covers the how-to on getting the look.
I enjoyed it very much and can't wait to find a similar highlighting stick so I can start attempting this look for myself! If you try it out and have good results, I'd love to see a picture and post it here on Viva La Fashion. I'll post my results as well.
Good luck, ladies!
To view more of the beauty and fashion videos from bubzbeauty, check out her youtube page at http://www.youtube.com/user/bubzbeauty
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Friday, January 7, 2011
5 Bargain Beauty Buys
Welcome to Bargain Beauty Buys! A new section where I'll be focusing on affordable beauty products that actually work. To kick things off, I'm going to spotlight 5 great products that actually live up to their advertising claims.
#1 - First up, we have the new L'Oreal Studio Secrets Professional Secret No.1 Magic Perfecting Base. available at Walmart for $9.97.
Claim: "Get the perfect skin texture, instantly and all day. The silky, lightweight formula glides onto skin and minimizes the look of pores and fine lines. Skin looks and feels smooth and resurfaced. The result- a unified matte finish that's flawless."
Verdict: True! I was completely amazed at how my skin instantly lost it's red, splotchy look. My skin tends to be dry but looks oily. How that works, I really don't know. But it seems this product was made for me! My skin immediately felt smooth and soft but without any oily residue from the base. The pink tone helped smooth out my skin tone and gave me a nice matte finish. It wasn't too thick, went out super easily and dried very quickly. The only downside is that it is kind of awkward to get out of the jar. I was further impressed when I applied my regualr makeup on top of the base- everything went on super smoothly and I used about half the foundation and conceler I normally apply every day. Plus the smooth, matte look last all day. This is defintiely a product I will use from now on!!!
#2 - Next. we have the Rimmel Glam Eyes Lash Flirt Volume and Lift Mascara available for $5.67 at Walmart.
Claim: "New VolumFlex Brush styles lashes for sensational volume and instant separation. Ultra supple elasto-bristles groom each lash, lacquering them from root to tip for a spectacular 7 x more lash intensity. Big Lash Seduction. High Definition. Maximum lash impact. Impeccable definition. Smoothing formula glides through lashes, wrapping each one for ultimate volume yet perfect separation. Lashes look dramatically amplified yet sleekly defined."
Verdict: True! This is a great mascara to use every day... especially if you have thinner lashes that need extra definition. This product provides great volume without any clumps at all! The flexible brush truly does separate your lashes and helps easily coat those hard to reach lashes in the corners of your eyes. My mom says, "It's the best mascara I've ever tried!' It really coats lashes evenly and thoroughly but looks completely natural! Plus the smooth formula stays fresh longer and doesn't clump up on your lashes or the brush. If you want huge, overly exagerrated lashes for evening, this is not the mascara for you. But if you want beautiful, natural, sleek lashes for every day use... I think you will love this product from Rimmel!
#3- Coming in at number 3 on our list today is the New Maybelline Eye Studio Baked Eye Shadow Duo available at Walmart for 5.94 and also at various drugstores.
Claim: "Our advanced baked technology keeps pearls uncrushed for refined luminosity.
7 different pure pigments are swirled together for gorgeous dimensional color.
Now, a swirl of pearls makes shadow new again!"
Verdict: True! Although this gorgeous eye shadow duo comes in a variety of pealry colors, one of our favorite colors is Bronze Blowout. It has just the right amount of irridescent sparkle in the bronze without shining like Jimmy Mac Elroy's outfits in Blades of Glory. The lighter shade blends as you apply it and goes on with the subtle hint of several colors, instead of one stark, matte shade. The shadows are long-lasting, easy to apply and good for all skin types. It's also suitable for a variety of ages, whereas some sparkly shadows are only fit for middle schoolers. In addition, your lids feel smooth and silky when applied.
#4- e.l.f Healthy Glow Bronzing Powder in Sun Kissed available via the e.l.f. website for $1!
Claim: "A touch of sunshine to warm up every complexion with its soft and silky texture for a beautiful and natural glow."
Verdict: True! Although my mom and I are fans of almost all e.l.f. products, the e.l.f. bronzer is our favorite. It has a really natural look with a hint of shimmer to add to the healthy glow. It's super easy to blend and doesn't leave streaks. The lightweight formula proves great for all skin types and is perfect for winter- when skin is dry and makeup can end up looking cakey. For the absolutely astounding price of $1, this bronzer should be a staple in every girl's makeup bag!
#5- Last on the list is essie nailpolish available online or at Walmart for $7.75.
Claim: There are none! The polishes speak for themselves.
Verdict: The best little polish out there! Essie polishes are long-lasting and quick-drying. They have a very smooth application and ultra-high shine. When coating your nails with this polish, you'll only have to use about half the polish you normally would. The polish is really thick but doesn't clump up or run when applying. With over 300 fabulous colors (all adorably named!) you won't run out of options any time soon! Try their 3 best-sellers: Ballet Slippers, Mademoiselle, and Wicked or one of their new winter colors like Masquerade Belle.
#1 - First up, we have the new L'Oreal Studio Secrets Professional Secret No.1 Magic Perfecting Base. available at Walmart for $9.97.
Claim: "Get the perfect skin texture, instantly and all day. The silky, lightweight formula glides onto skin and minimizes the look of pores and fine lines. Skin looks and feels smooth and resurfaced. The result- a unified matte finish that's flawless."
Verdict: True! I was completely amazed at how my skin instantly lost it's red, splotchy look. My skin tends to be dry but looks oily. How that works, I really don't know. But it seems this product was made for me! My skin immediately felt smooth and soft but without any oily residue from the base. The pink tone helped smooth out my skin tone and gave me a nice matte finish. It wasn't too thick, went out super easily and dried very quickly. The only downside is that it is kind of awkward to get out of the jar. I was further impressed when I applied my regualr makeup on top of the base- everything went on super smoothly and I used about half the foundation and conceler I normally apply every day. Plus the smooth, matte look last all day. This is defintiely a product I will use from now on!!!
#2 - Next. we have the Rimmel Glam Eyes Lash Flirt Volume and Lift Mascara available for $5.67 at Walmart.
Claim: "New VolumFlex Brush styles lashes for sensational volume and instant separation. Ultra supple elasto-bristles groom each lash, lacquering them from root to tip for a spectacular 7 x more lash intensity. Big Lash Seduction. High Definition. Maximum lash impact. Impeccable definition. Smoothing formula glides through lashes, wrapping each one for ultimate volume yet perfect separation. Lashes look dramatically amplified yet sleekly defined."
Verdict: True! This is a great mascara to use every day... especially if you have thinner lashes that need extra definition. This product provides great volume without any clumps at all! The flexible brush truly does separate your lashes and helps easily coat those hard to reach lashes in the corners of your eyes. My mom says, "It's the best mascara I've ever tried!' It really coats lashes evenly and thoroughly but looks completely natural! Plus the smooth formula stays fresh longer and doesn't clump up on your lashes or the brush. If you want huge, overly exagerrated lashes for evening, this is not the mascara for you. But if you want beautiful, natural, sleek lashes for every day use... I think you will love this product from Rimmel!
#3- Coming in at number 3 on our list today is the New Maybelline Eye Studio Baked Eye Shadow Duo available at Walmart for 5.94 and also at various drugstores.
Claim: "Our advanced baked technology keeps pearls uncrushed for refined luminosity.
7 different pure pigments are swirled together for gorgeous dimensional color.
Now, a swirl of pearls makes shadow new again!"
Verdict: True! Although this gorgeous eye shadow duo comes in a variety of pealry colors, one of our favorite colors is Bronze Blowout. It has just the right amount of irridescent sparkle in the bronze without shining like Jimmy Mac Elroy's outfits in Blades of Glory. The lighter shade blends as you apply it and goes on with the subtle hint of several colors, instead of one stark, matte shade. The shadows are long-lasting, easy to apply and good for all skin types. It's also suitable for a variety of ages, whereas some sparkly shadows are only fit for middle schoolers. In addition, your lids feel smooth and silky when applied.
#4- e.l.f Healthy Glow Bronzing Powder in Sun Kissed available via the e.l.f. website for $1!
Claim: "A touch of sunshine to warm up every complexion with its soft and silky texture for a beautiful and natural glow."
Verdict: True! Although my mom and I are fans of almost all e.l.f. products, the e.l.f. bronzer is our favorite. It has a really natural look with a hint of shimmer to add to the healthy glow. It's super easy to blend and doesn't leave streaks. The lightweight formula proves great for all skin types and is perfect for winter- when skin is dry and makeup can end up looking cakey. For the absolutely astounding price of $1, this bronzer should be a staple in every girl's makeup bag!
#5- Last on the list is essie nailpolish available online or at Walmart for $7.75.
Claim: There are none! The polishes speak for themselves.
Verdict: The best little polish out there! Essie polishes are long-lasting and quick-drying. They have a very smooth application and ultra-high shine. When coating your nails with this polish, you'll only have to use about half the polish you normally would. The polish is really thick but doesn't clump up or run when applying. With over 300 fabulous colors (all adorably named!) you won't run out of options any time soon! Try their 3 best-sellers: Ballet Slippers, Mademoiselle, and Wicked or one of their new winter colors like Masquerade Belle.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Cali in Winter
My cousin Emily recently went to California and I absolutely fell in love with her pictures! I've always admired Emily's bohemian-chic look- it's the perfect complement to her natural, earthy beauty. Take into consideration that she is a very talented folk-acoustic musician and you'll understand why this style is so perfect for her. On her trip to California, she was rocking some seriously cute outfits, so I thought I'd share two of my favorite shots. Is there anything better than the beach in winter???
Check out her music at http://emilystilwell.weebly.com/
Emily's wavy hair and casual bag only add to this effortlessly stylish look!
I absolutely love this scarf! And what's not to love about her oversized sunglasses?!?
Check out her music at http://emilystilwell.weebly.com/
Emily's wavy hair and casual bag only add to this effortlessly stylish look!
I absolutely love this scarf! And what's not to love about her oversized sunglasses?!?
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Copy Cat Style
Copy-Cat Style is a new addition to this blog where I'll be choosing one or two celebrities seen out and about in the past week. Then I'll copy their outfits in an affordable way that all of us "normal" people can afford.
This week we'll be copying two street looks from Vanessa Hudgens and Nicole Richie. Both looks were put together from H&M, because once again H&M delivers of-the-moment looks for a fraction of the cost for designer wear!
I really like Vanessa Hudgen's relaxed "I'm so cool that I don't even have to try" look. Best thing is most of you will already have similar pieces at home- throw on a pair of jeans, black tank, and loose tunic-length sweater. Top it off with strands of long necklaces, oversized bag, big sunglasses and plenty of attitude!
I have to say that Nicole's look is cute and totally something a normal person could pull off. However, I must say that the H&M version is my favorite! Apart from looking less rumpled and wrinkly, the more tailored pieces from H&M result in a dressy, pulled-together look. To achieve this look, go for a sleeker silhouette and fitted pieces. To keep it casual and comfortable, go for pieces that are looser and oversized like Nicole's well-worn leather jacket.
This week we'll be copying two street looks from Vanessa Hudgens and Nicole Richie. Both looks were put together from H&M, because once again H&M delivers of-the-moment looks for a fraction of the cost for designer wear!
I really like Vanessa Hudgen's relaxed "I'm so cool that I don't even have to try" look. Best thing is most of you will already have similar pieces at home- throw on a pair of jeans, black tank, and loose tunic-length sweater. Top it off with strands of long necklaces, oversized bag, big sunglasses and plenty of attitude!
I have to say that Nicole's look is cute and totally something a normal person could pull off. However, I must say that the H&M version is my favorite! Apart from looking less rumpled and wrinkly, the more tailored pieces from H&M result in a dressy, pulled-together look. To achieve this look, go for a sleeker silhouette and fitted pieces. To keep it casual and comfortable, go for pieces that are looser and oversized like Nicole's well-worn leather jacket.
A Few of My Favorite Things...
Sorry for the hit and miss posts over the past few months. Things have been really busy with my job lately and then I got super sick. Thankfully I'm finally feeling better though! Part of my New Year resolutions are to do better with my blogs (I have 2). So hopefully time will permit me to keep that resolution and post more faithfully here on Viva La Fashion.
I absolutely love Lucky magazine. It's the one magazine I have a subscription for (although my other favorite is InStyle). For those of you not lucky enough to have this month's Lucky, I thought I'd share my top 10 favorite items from the issue.
Favorite Item # 1:
Emily Blunt looks lovely in this Zuhair Murad gown with Ina Soltani coat. Winter white never looked so sleek and glam! I think this sparkly ivory dress is perfect for parties- classy and chic yet a gorgeous contrast to the scores of women who think that formal wear automatically means a little black dress.
Favorite Item # 2:
I love this unusual Spanish galleon ship ring from Flotsam and Jetsam. Designed by a welder trained in the old fashioned art of silversmithing, it's part of a collection called The Armada available on the Flotsam and Jetsam of New York website for $160. "Flotsam and Jetsam speaks of the spoils cast over board and washed ashore, sculptural narratives whose stories invoke the desperate journeys of abandoned souls that dared to step aboard and sail into the realms of monsters, sudden squalls and shallow shoals." It's like having a piece of Cpt. Jack Sparrow's jewelry right on your finger.
Favorite Item # 3:
This gray bulky cardigan from Armani Exchange makes me want to:
a) find a rich boyfriend who has a winter house in Cape Cod
b) curl up and read a good book in front of a fireplace
c) be young, blonde and beautiful like the girl in this picture
d) all of the above
Hmmm.... let me think.
Favorite Item # 4:
How beautiful is this chiffon clutch from Sondra Roberts??? The delicate silver chain and blush color are the perfect compliments to it's feminine, delicate rose design.
Favorite Item # 5:
This adorable cashmere blend, sweater dress from Kate Spade is adorable and versatile. Wear it with the optional belt to give yourself more curves. The navy and white pattern is demure and traditional but play up the sexy secretary look with a pop of color in your accessories.
Favorite Item # 6:
The stylish platform heels from Nine West come in 3 different colors/designs, but my favorite is this rich plum shade in suede. Perfect for fall and winter, they are available at zappos.com for only $62! That's almost $30 cheaper than the price listed on the Nine West website.
Favorite Item # 7:
I absolutely love this giant crystal necklace from Adia Kibur! Made for women who aren't afraid of large jewelry, this beautifully crafted necklace comes in neon pink and neon green. For those of you who love the style but want it in a more subdued color, it also comes in clear and black. A bit futuristic and edgy, this is the statement necklace of all times.
Favorite Item # 8:
I'm not sure why but I'm officially in love with this simple, solid-toned scarf from Echo. The waffle-weave like pattern and rich gold color make me think of crisp fall days, but it's light enough to wear year round. Available at echodesign.com for $38.
Favorite Item # 9:
Preppy staples like these duck boots from Lands End never go out of style. Wear them with jeans or a feminine skirt and top it off with a thick jacket and plaid scarf.
Favorite Item # 10:
Love this girl, love this makeup, love this shirt, love these accessories, but I especially love this skirt!!! As you can tell from this picture, this wool-blend skirt from Milly could easily transition into spring when paired with this breezy, nautical shirt, but I think this gorgeous skirt with gold-button detailing on the front is the perfect skirt for winter. Too often, winter clothes can feel bulky and unfeminine but this tailored mini would look great with tights and a fitted sweater. Try darker, ribbed tights for a more conservative look or bright, jewel-toned tights for a more modern look.
I absolutely love Lucky magazine. It's the one magazine I have a subscription for (although my other favorite is InStyle). For those of you not lucky enough to have this month's Lucky, I thought I'd share my top 10 favorite items from the issue.
Favorite Item # 1:
Emily Blunt looks lovely in this Zuhair Murad gown with Ina Soltani coat. Winter white never looked so sleek and glam! I think this sparkly ivory dress is perfect for parties- classy and chic yet a gorgeous contrast to the scores of women who think that formal wear automatically means a little black dress.
Favorite Item # 2:
I love this unusual Spanish galleon ship ring from Flotsam and Jetsam. Designed by a welder trained in the old fashioned art of silversmithing, it's part of a collection called The Armada available on the Flotsam and Jetsam of New York website for $160. "Flotsam and Jetsam speaks of the spoils cast over board and washed ashore, sculptural narratives whose stories invoke the desperate journeys of abandoned souls that dared to step aboard and sail into the realms of monsters, sudden squalls and shallow shoals." It's like having a piece of Cpt. Jack Sparrow's jewelry right on your finger. Favorite Item # 3:
This gray bulky cardigan from Armani Exchange makes me want to:
a) find a rich boyfriend who has a winter house in Cape Cod
b) curl up and read a good book in front of a fireplace
c) be young, blonde and beautiful like the girl in this picture
d) all of the above
Hmmm.... let me think.
Favorite Item # 4:
How beautiful is this chiffon clutch from Sondra Roberts??? The delicate silver chain and blush color are the perfect compliments to it's feminine, delicate rose design. Favorite Item # 5:
This adorable cashmere blend, sweater dress from Kate Spade is adorable and versatile. Wear it with the optional belt to give yourself more curves. The navy and white pattern is demure and traditional but play up the sexy secretary look with a pop of color in your accessories.
Favorite Item # 6:
The stylish platform heels from Nine West come in 3 different colors/designs, but my favorite is this rich plum shade in suede. Perfect for fall and winter, they are available at zappos.com for only $62! That's almost $30 cheaper than the price listed on the Nine West website.
Favorite Item # 7:
I absolutely love this giant crystal necklace from Adia Kibur! Made for women who aren't afraid of large jewelry, this beautifully crafted necklace comes in neon pink and neon green. For those of you who love the style but want it in a more subdued color, it also comes in clear and black. A bit futuristic and edgy, this is the statement necklace of all times. Favorite Item # 8:
I'm not sure why but I'm officially in love with this simple, solid-toned scarf from Echo. The waffle-weave like pattern and rich gold color make me think of crisp fall days, but it's light enough to wear year round. Available at echodesign.com for $38.
Favorite Item # 9:
Preppy staples like these duck boots from Lands End never go out of style. Wear them with jeans or a feminine skirt and top it off with a thick jacket and plaid scarf.
Favorite Item # 10:
Love this girl, love this makeup, love this shirt, love these accessories, but I especially love this skirt!!! As you can tell from this picture, this wool-blend skirt from Milly could easily transition into spring when paired with this breezy, nautical shirt, but I think this gorgeous skirt with gold-button detailing on the front is the perfect skirt for winter. Too often, winter clothes can feel bulky and unfeminine but this tailored mini would look great with tights and a fitted sweater. Try darker, ribbed tights for a more conservative look or bright, jewel-toned tights for a more modern look.
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