Sephora Puerto Rico: Quick visit and first thoughts

**NOTE: this post is mostly for my Latin Caribbean/Boricua readers, since this is the first Sephora Store in Puerto Rico**

Yes, quick visit today (finally!) because I was with my sons and they were threatening to destroy the store **sighs**.

Sephora@Plaza Las Americas
San Juan, PR

SEPHORA Puerto Rico is located at Plaza Las Américas Mall in San Juan, on the first floor, near Borders and Old Navy. It is a beauty retailer that offers great quality cosmetics, skin care, makeup, fragrance & perfume, hair and other beauty products (like makeup tools and brushes). The store was founded in France back in 1969 and acquired by the Louis Vuitton-Moët Hennessy (LVMH) Group in 1997. Yes, THAT Louis Vuitton company many of you know by way of say...amazing, beautiful products like handbags, suitcases, scarfs, clothes...LOL.

SEPHORA has more than 750 all over the world. They know how to reach the consumer. How? Simple (and this is based on my short experienced and for what I've seen/read from customers): They have testers for all their products and I do mean ALL of them. You might say: "but other counters at Dept. Stores have testers...". Thing is, here you have all the M.E/H.E. brands at one place, you don't need to go to different counters AND you can try on everything without waiting for Store Attendants (SA) or Makeup Artists (MA) to help you (or be all over you) AND you can ask for samples to try at home.


Today when I went to the store, the SAs were really nice, left me in peace and I had a great time (not for long...again, my kids...) going through all the aisles trying and feeling lipglosses, foundations, mascara and skincare products. Between you and me, I really hate going to any store or beauty counter and having the SAs all over me likes bees on honey. I always wished secretly "gosh, just let me browse in peace, I will ask for help whenever I need to".

Maybe SAs here are really nice? lol =) I'll tell you about that when I visit the store again ;)

I was in love with the whole store of course. Based on what I saw, they brought most of the lines they offer on-line. One I'm very interested in, Make Up For Ever has a really large display. I swear, I could have stayed playing with their products the whole afternoon. I am happy!!! Too Faced, Benefit, Guerlain, DDF, Cosmedicine, Urban Decay, Bliss, Clinique, Laura Mercier, Cover
FX, Korres, Philosophy, Fekkai...yep, all of them are there and lots more. It's like a huge playground for me!


Short, nice experience today. Can't wait to go back, yeah...gotta save some $. Hehehe.


Have a good one!



¡Vivan, amen y rían!

Tie Dye Pencil Leg

J Brand hits the newest trend with 'Zombie' whiskered, beat up, ripped and bleached jeans that shade from palest almost white grey to medium grey in a tie dye kind of look. Otherwise, they are the great five pocket straight leg style you love. These jeans are so sexy and it can be worn on tall and skinny, or short and thick =].

$ 218.00

Rise and Shine!

I am not always a morning person. There are times when I can jump out of bed, get myself ready, and feel like I can take on the world. But then...and more often...there are days when my alarm goes off and I can't move. Morning has come too early and all I want to do is curl up under the covers even though I have to get up and face the day.

Whether it's ennui, staying up too late, or over-indulging the night before, some mornings are just harsh. Even if you don't get enough sleep, there are a few tricks you can use to make yourself look more rested and ready to go. Try these:

• Get your blood pumping. Sure, lying in bed may seem ideal, but try to get up and get physical. Do some jumping jacks, go for a brisk walk, or (better yet!) have a morning quickie with your honey. Getting your body moving and your blood pumping will improve your circulation and will get your skin looking more alive.
• Hit the shower...but keep it cool. A cooler shower will stimulate circulation and will help you feel...and look...better when you're dragging.
• Exfoliate! Wash away your dead skin and the remnants of your night before with a gentle exfoliating wash. Avoid the harsher exfoliators that contain glycolic acid since they can make your skin more sun sensitive.
• Moisturize well. Give your freshly scrubbed skin a healthy drink with a good moisturizer. Be sure to use one that contains SPF to get extra sun protection.
• Be a tea-totaler. Well...not really! But if you have bags under your eyes, place cool tea bags over your eyes for a few minutes. The caffeine in the tea will help to reduce any puffiness.
• Apply concealer with care. Take care of your dark circles carefully. Try a concealer or foundation primer and apply it with a light hand. You don't want to over-correct and end up with circles that are too light around your eyes! Blend, blend, blend.
• Go easy with the foundation. Remember that foundation applied too thickly can cling to lines and other imperfections, making them even more pronounced than you want.
• Be rosy. A hit of blush will make your face look brighter and more alert. Don't skip this step.
• Don't forget your lids. If you have dark circles and tired looking eyes, chances are you're focusing most of your time on your under-eye area. But you can also do a few things on your upper lids to make your eyes look more open. Try curling your lashes and applying a decent coat of mascara, especially to your outer lashes. Also consider embracing a 50s style cat-eye look by flicking your eyeliner up and out from your upper lids. Finally, a little nude liner on your lower lids or a hint of white liner in the inner corners can really make your eyes pop.

My final hint: stay hydrated. Don't go for the crutch of drinking cup after cup of coffee unless you want an nasty crash later in the day. Stick with water--plenty of it!--to keep your skin hydrated and everything functioning properly.

Kiss of the Vampire

Well, we all knew it was bound to happen one day, and that day is finally here. It seems as though DuWop is unveiling a new product inspired by the glittery vampire juggernaut that is Twilight.

Here's what DuWop has to say about Lip Venom V, their lip plumper made in the vain (vein?) of Twilight:

Be transformed. Let the alchemy transcend.

This special limited edition Lip Venom is a sneak preview of our highly anticipated Twilight Venom, debuting this Fall. Lip Venom V is not your typical DuWop venom. Instead of a gloss, Lip Venom V is a shimmering crimson lip stain suspended in a venom-laced liquid lip conditioner with a bite, and contains argan, avocado, olive oils and vitamin E.

This product should be shaken before use to represent the blending of the human and vampire worlds and applied repeatedly until lips are plumped, revitalized and the desired intensity of color has been reached.

Hmmm....Interesting! What would Edward and Bella think? I love normal Lip Venom, so I'll bite my tongue for now. I just wonder if this will bite or rock....time shall tell. I wonder what kind of makeup product DuWop could design for Jacob and his werewolves? Some sort of hair remover, perhaps?

I ordered a few vials of Lip Venom V, so be on the lookout for a giveaway and a review soon!

Rest In Peace.

Thursday June 25th, 2009 - something occurred that shocked the world.

Micheal Jackson, the King of Pop - suddenly died at the age of 50.

Sad is not even the word to express the feeling towards this tragedy.

A humanitarian, idol & a musical pioneer left us. I am honestly still in shock.

Micheal is believed to have went into cardiac arrest & after an hour of trying - doctors were unable to revive him.

As soon as the news of his passing spread, the Internet went wild. Myspace, Facebook & especially Twitter.

This is still unbelievable to me.

Rest In Peace Micheal Jackson ♥, We Will Miss You Dearly.

As well, the same day we lost the beautiful Farrah Fawcett to cancer at the age of 62.

To whoever doesnt know who she was, Farrah was one of the original Charlie's Angel's & was well known for that amazing hair flip she had. (:

Rest in Peace Farrah Fawcett ♥ Your A Real Angel Now.

So We've Been Kind Of Playing Recently...

& I deeply apologize. =\ Summer's here now - meaning obviously no school; lots of appearances; lots of pictures for you guys & of course...LOTS OF BLOGGING!
To say the least, the blog has been slipping lately, and we've put so much work into this blog over the past year that I refuse to let it fall off.
So we're back! - Sorry for the neglect guys.

So what's been going on recently?
- Saddity & Stylin are no longer high school students, they've graduated.
- I'm in the process of planning my Sweet 16 - pretty excited about that.
- Fashion like always has been living the life of a working woman but still always has time for us.
- Parties, parties, parties (were becoming REAL socialites lol.)

Anyways, I guess this post was just our re-introduction back into the blogging world! ♥

x's & o's...

My easy, worry-free summer look + how I achieve makeup that stays on my skin all day

Hello ladies (and gents if there is any that read this blog)! Back to beauty blogging, lol. This is just a simple post about a simple and easy look I'm sporting this summer.

Summer calls for a look that doesn't disappears (melts) during the day and/or makes you worry about having raccoon eyes because you walked for a few minutes and sweated like crazy. This look is for those days you need more coverage than that a tinted moisturizer can provide.

First of all, after cleaning, moisturizing and adding some sunscreen on my face, I proceed to apply Clinique's Pore Minimizer T-Zone Shine Control Gel on that specific area.

Then, for me it is important to use a good primer for face and eyes, because Gosh! the heat here is unbearable. I'm using a combination of moisturizing primer (Borghese Prima Viso primer), just a drop on my cheeks, with a silicone-based one (Smashbox PhotoFinish) on my T-zone and to fill my pretty pores.


For eyes, as always I use first Too Faced Shadow Insurance or UDPP, followed by a MAC PaintPot. Then I'm ready for makeup.


Come to think of it, all that is the "hardest" part of my routine because I then apply all the other products in just minutes.

Again, this is a very natural, barely-there look. I want to mention that I fake a more bronzed look using a foundation shade a bit darker than my skin tone. I blend it well in the jaw and neck area so I don't look ridiculous --> taking pics of yourself always helps to verify if you overdid it. Esteé Lauder Double Wear Foundation in Tawny provides just that to my complexion.


When I first bought Double Wear, I thought the color was a perfect match, but now I think it is just a touch too dark for my complexion. Also, honestly, this summer I am really pale, like it is ridiculous. So I get help from makeup. (I still haven't write a review about DW. I like that foundation, I can hardly feel it on my skin (like the Revlon ColorStay Makeup). Here's a list of the other stuff I use:

FACE
♥Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation in 3W1-Tawny
♥MAC Powder Blush in Sunbasque on cheeks
♥Laura Mercier Loose Powder in Stardust (as highlighter)
♥MAC Powder Blush in Blunt (to contour)
♥MAC Loose Blot Powder in Medium Dark

EYES
♥Too Faced Shadow Insurance all over the lid
♥MAC Eyeshadows: Kid (all over eyelid); Texture (crease); Ricepaper (browbone); Shroom (Inner eye area, near the tear ducts); Espreso (outer lower lash line to define the eyes)--> I know, I used many eyeshadows but they are applied very fast.
♥L'oreal Voluminous Waterproof Mascara in Black
♥MAC Eyebrow pencil in Stud

LIPS
♥MAC Tendertone in Hot-n-Saucy (LE)--love them, great lipbalms and they have SPF12; You could use L'oreal HIP Jelly Balm in Ripe or Delectable, though they don't have SPF.







Hope you find this post helpful.

Later!


¡Vivan, amen y rían!

TotalBeauty.com--Your Skin Challenges

Your Skin Challenges -- Solved!

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Does it feel like your skin is conspiring against you, sprouting pimples or fine lines when your back is turned? It may seem impossible but you can overcome any skin challenge and have a flawless complexion -- with the right care. Take this quiz to identify your enemies and get tips on how to conquer them. Take the quiz

Need Makeup? Get Online....Now!

Too Faced is having a big sale this weekend! If you need to stock up on some high quality, cutely packaged beauty products, head over to Too Faced's website. Enter code SIZZLE at check out and you'll get:

• 20% off your entire order
• Free mini Pinpoint mascara with every $35 purchase
• Free shipping with every $75 purchase

My suggestion? Check out Too Faced's amazing eye colors and fun pallets. You really can't go wrong.

The sale ends on the 28th, so get shopping!

Beauty Product of the Week: DoubleTwist Mascara

What is it? Revlon's new DoubleTwist mascara, "gives you the volume and definition you've been looking for in a mascara. Revolutionary 2-in-1 brush for massive volume and remarkable definition. Thickening Brush + Separating Combs = the Ultimate Lash Look." Available at drugstores and big box stores for $8.99 or so.

What did you think? The thinking behind this product is good. A rubber wand that will help declump lashes combined with a more bristles that will add volume...what could go wrong? The short answer: everything. This product sucks in so many ways. I honestly have nothing positive to say about this product.

Let's take a look at the wand. It's both too stiff and too wobbly all at the same time. The red comb gets all crapped up with mascara and huge gobs of tarry black mascara gum up the entire brush. The wand is too large to allow for easy use, so you can't get into tight corners to apply mascara to your outer lashes.

This mascara applies horribly. The very first time I carefully swiped the wand across my lashes, I was left with not one, not two, but three disastrous clumps on my top lash line. That meant I had to grab my metal lash comb and rake it through the wretched clumps to make my lashes look unclumped. Separating comb, my ass!

This product is messy, takes a lot of time and patience to use, and the end result? Yeah...nothing spectacular. I had such a bad time with this product that I wonder how much effort Revlon took in actually testing this product out before slapping it on Jessica Alba and selling it to suckers like me.

Don't be a sucker: Avoid this rotten product at all cost!

The final verdict? This appallingly bad product pisses me off. I hate it when cosmetics companies spend all their time and money on advertising rather than on making a decent product. I normally like Revlon--partially because they don't test on animals--but lately some of their new products are big flops. This mascara is a huge miss. It's messy and hard to apply. It's about as appealing as applying tar to your lashes.

Do not waste your money. What a massive disappointment!

I Need YOUR Advice!

Okay--I answer lots of beauty questions, but now I have a few questions for you. I need advice and I'm turning to my blog for the answers! Yes, this is self-serving, but hey...it's my blog so by definition it's self-serving.

Here's what I need help with:

1) I am a natural blonde, but lately I've been going platinum. This means suffering through a bleach and tone every eight weeks or so. I love, love, love my platinum blonde locks, as I've mentioned before. The only drawback? My hair is much more dry than normal...thanks to the bleach and harsh chemicals. I've been trying to wash and condition every other day (and never on the weekends). This seems to be helping a little, but on day two, my hair is dry-ish and my scalp oilier than I like. This is my question: If you have dry, chemically treated hair, how do you care for it? Specifically: what products are your favorites?

2) As I mentioned yesterday, I have come to the realization that I have combination skin. My T-zone tends to get a little shiny during the day but I also have some dry patches on my forehead and cheeks. Nice. I wash daily and exfoliate regularly. I moisturize....I try to do everything right. If you have combination skin, what products and treatments do you use? What's worked and what hasn't?

Thanks in advance for your comments! I'll be back tomorrow with a brand new Beauty Product of the Week!

Ed McMahon Passes Away

Ed McMahon died this morning at a Los Angeles hospital. He was 86 years old. McMahon had been hospitalized for pneumonia at the beginning of this year and was also battling cancer. He had a great career as Johnny Carson's sidekick on the The Tonight Show. (Who doesn't remember his famous "Heeeeee're Johnny!") McMahon also hosted the television talent show, Star Search.
Today, we pay tribute to Ed McMahon and remember his legendary career in Hollywood.

*Getty Images

- Aanchal

Jon and Kate Are Getting Divorced

Jon and Kate Gosselin from TLC’s reality TV series Jon and Kate Plus 8 have officially announced that they're getting divorced! They have been married for 10 years, and have been shaky for the past six months. Both have agreed that it is best for their children. Jon says, “It's not good for us to be arguing in front of the kids.” There has been a whole lot of publicity around their troubled relationship, but the announcement was comes as a shock. They have thought it all out and are still carrying on with the show, just parenting at different times. The kids will still live at home, since the house was bought for them.

Kate was very upset and apparently sobbed, and said "Parents of multiples have triple the divorce rate ... I was thinking we were going to beat that.” Yet, she was the one to make the first legal move. When they announced their divorce on the show, she had already called a lawyer. This is the first reality show that is going to air while the divorce is going on!

They seemed like the perfect family! The show is going to be so different now!

- Aanchal

Dark Angels for My Bathroom

Over the weekend, my husband and I made a visit to one of our local Lush shops. As I mentioned last week, I'm in the need for new products, and I hoped that Lush could hook me up.

I love the idea of Lush. Everything they sell is unique and tempting. And I really like giving Lush products as gifts or blog giveaways. But I rarely buy Lush products for myself, and I'm not really sure why.

I've also recently come to realize that--despite my past insistence otherwise--I have combination skin. And right now...now that it's getting warmer and more humid...my skin can be a little to oily for my liking.

This past weekend, I decided to stop my self-deprivation and take care of my weird combination skin all at the same time. I bought myself a fascinating Lush product called Dark Angels.

Here's what Lush has to say about this product: Dark Angels is powerful cleanser designed for young, oily and darker skin – as requested by our customers and inspired by our best-selling cleansing roll. It's got a natural, anti-bacterial cleanser in the form of Rhassoul mud which we buy direct from the mines in Morocco's Atlas Mountains. Powdered charcoal absorbs oil as it gives you a good scrub. Its firm approach is balanced by soothing rosewood and sandalwood essential oils to keep your skin soft.

Now, my skin is not young (it's not old, but I wouldn't call it young!!) and it certainly isn't darker (I'm very pale!), but I am eager to give this a try. You take a little of the black cleanser, mix it with water, and wash your face. There are a lot of natural exfoliating agents in the cleanser that will buff away dead skin cells. Despite this cleanser containing coal, it smells really good.

I can't wait to give it a try...and I'll be sure to report back with my thoughts!

Sephora Samples in Time for Summer Travel

Planning for your pretty weekend or summer getaway? Be sure to tote these travel-friendly treats from Sephora! From multi-purpose mascaras to skin-sational moisturizers and fabulous fragrances, Sephora offers everything you need to make it through security…while looking snazzy! Slip these travel savers into your makeup bag and you're good to go.

Travel is made easy with these vacation necessities. And let me tell you, these samplers rock! I, for one, can't wait to try some of these babies out!

SEPHORA FAVORITES Naturally Gorgeous Skincare & Make-Up Sampler ($40 a $111 value) – Be a natural traveler with these eco-chic pieces: Korres Natural Primer, Tarte EmphasEYES, Tarte Lash Hugger, and Bare Escentuals 100% Natural Lip Gloss.

SEPHORA FAVORITES Splashstash Waterproof Deluxe Sampler ($36 a $65 value) – Made to make - and take - a splash, this waterproof sampler includes Tarte Lights Camera Splashes, Too Faced Mini Lash Injection, Make Up For Ever Aqua Smoky Lash and Make Up For Ever Sens’Eyes Makeup Remover.

SEPHORA FAVORITES Eau Girl Fragrance Deluxe Sampler ($40 an $80 value) – This scent-sational pack of petite spritzers includes some of Sephora’s most notable fragrances such as Marc Jacobs Daisy, Christian Dior Miss Dior Cherie, and Prada Infusion d’Iris.

SEPHORA FAVORITES Get Pink’d Pink Lip Deluxe Sampler ($37 an $80 value) – Pucker up with Sephora’s most kissable lip glosses, including Smashbox O-Gloss, Urban Decay Lipstick in Jilted, DuWop Prime Venom, Sephora Super Shimmer and Stila Cherry Crush.

SEPHORA FAVORITES Face Quenchers Moisturizer Deluxe Sampler ($37 a $100 value) – Treat your skin to Sephora’s ahhh-mazing face refreshers including Philosophy Hope in a Jar, Korres Wild Rose 24-Hour Moisturizer, Fresh Soy Face Cream, and Murad Protecting Day Cream SPF 30.

SEPHORA FAVORITES Fix-Its Skincare Deluxe Sampler ($40 a $118 value) – This emergency skin kit includes: Kinerase Extreme Eye Lift, Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Eye Mask and Perricone MD Ceramic Skin Smoother, so pack them on for instant skin rejuvenation!

SEPHORA FAVORITES Lashstash Mascara Deluxe Sampler ($39 a $96 value) –You’re your bevy of lashes with these mini-mascaras. Including Buxom Lash, Smashbox Bionic Mascara, Lancôme Cils Booster, Sephora Atomic Volume Mascara and more, the options are eye opening!

Must Be Love - Cassie Ft. Diddy.

"Sweet Dreams" ; behind the scenes. .

Cute Celebrity Dads

These doting dads spend some quality time with their biggest fans: their children. And with daddy's day around the corner, Glam is paying tribute to our favorite famous fathers. From Ben Affleck to Brad Pitt, these proud papas, with their beautiful babies, make us melt.

To see the photos of our favorite (sexy) celebrity dads, visit Glam.com.

Bigger Isn't Better for Posh

Former Posh Spice, Victorian Beckham, recently reduced her already implanted double D’s. This has been her third breast surgery so far. She initially had wanted the busty look because she had the big hair and the fake tan ... and, well, it all just went together. But she now says she has moved on! She doesn't think it works as a new fashion designer and a mum. She is currently in France recovering, and is pleased with the results!

- Aanchal

[tags]Glam, Glam Media, Glam Buzz, Victoria Beckham, Breat reduction[/tags]

A New Role for Megan Fox

Get this ... The sexy Megan Fox plays a "tough, no nonsense" prostitute in the comic-turned-movie, Jonah Hex. She enjoyed playing the part and said it was loads more fun than she thought it would be. In fact, she could related. “When you think about it, we actors are kind of prostitutes,” she says in the July issue of British GQ. “We get paid to feign attraction and love. Other people are paying to watch us kissing someone, touching someone, doing things people in a normal monogamous relationship would never do with anyone who’s not their partner. It’s really kind of gross.”

Gorgeous and smart! We look forward to her movie coming out late in 2010. (oh, and don’t forget to go see Transformers!)

*Getty Images

- Aanchal

Taking a few days off!

Sorry for the lack of posts. The kids are spending time with their granparents and now my hubby is on his way to the States so, as Spock would say, it's logical I take a few days "off" whatever that means for a homemaker. LOL

Seriously, I'll be back next week with some new swatches and hauls.

Later!


¡Vivan, amen y rían!

Beauty Product of the Week: Smooth My Sole

What is it? Dr. Scholl's Smooth My Sole Microfile " is an effective, yet gentle stainless steel file that removes rough, dry skin and calluses to reveal soft, smooth skin. Stainless Steel ProSharp™ Micro File to remove rough, dry skin and calluses. Ergonomic Design - Designed to fit well in a woman's hand. Translucent, so you can see shavings accumulate as you file. So gentle, it won't burst a balloon. Easy, no mess disposal Smoothing pads provide the finishing touch!" Available at drugstores and wherever Dr Scholl's products are sold for about $10.

What did you think? I must admit I was a little nervous about trying this product. It looks a lot like the Ped-egg you see advertised on late night TV. The idea of a cheese grater like tool for my feet made me squeamish.

Despite my trepidation, I gave this a shot. And it works wonders! I get rough patches on the balls of my feet...and these rough patches are thick and gross. When I get pedicures, they require extra attention and when I leave, they're only a little better than when I walked in. But Smooth My Sole quickly, easily, and painlessly files away rough patches, leaving my feet feeling smooth and perfect.

Also included are "smoothing pads" that buff up your feet post filing. The pads are ok--they don't seem to do a whole heck of a lot. But the file? Wow! It really works.

The final verdict? I give this one a thumbs up...and that surprises me. I was fearful of this product at first, but it does a nice job at a very decent price. $10 for a product that gives top-notch, at home professional pedicure results? What's not to like?!

Why..?

Lala Vazquez is buggin out!ed her new haircut

Dedication to...!!

Mark aka Mark the Kaws aka Mark_myword (on twitter) aka MOB's big brother. Mark always looks out for MOB that's why we love him such as the time when we went to Summer Jam and the line to go back on the bus was TOOO LONG and Mark decided that we weren't stay on the line.. so he skiped and we followed. Some thristy ass bitch was saying " No yall skipping , i'm telling ". So as usual we laugh and Mark replied " you really gon do this miss ". Lol just all comedy..anywho MOB loves Mark mucho.

P.S. ladies hit him up on twitter.com/Mark_myword

Longchamp x Jeremy Scott “Phone Print” Pliage Bag

Longchamp does it again =] ,Jeremy Scott teams up with French bag brand Longchamp on their unique bag. In time for summer the designer presents a bright red colorway of the bag with an all-over phone print. The bag is now available at colette.

Jamie Foxx ft. Drake performing Digital Girl

I Want A New Drug

My apologies to Huey Lewis and The News for stealing the title of today's entry, but I think it's apt. Here's why (holy cow--I just aged myself!):

I try tons of beauty products. Products from companies that are very well known, products that are from obscure manufacturers. I try expensive products and cheap products. I don't discriminate. I'll try almost anything.

But lately? Ugh! I think I've hit a rut! I need to try something new, something that excites me. So I am going to ask you....my beloved readers: What is your favorite new (or not so new) beauty product at the moment? Or: what product are you dying to try? Please leave me a comment--I'll use some of your suggestions for future blog entries and I'd love to hear what you have to say!

Thanks!

MTTM'S New Logo.

Okay so I won't lie. At first glance; I wasn't too fond of it. Whatsoever.
But then I peeped the way it looked on the sleeve & i could definitely get used to that.
It's kind of a "love/hate" thing for me.
This is what MTTM has to say about it...

"The ‘puckered kiss’ that has been the brand’s logo since their start in 04’ is getting a tune-up. Why the change? Leah McSweeney – MTTM’s creator – explains that ‘we’re no longer just t-shirts and hoodies, the line is expanding and growing up, we wanted a new logo to emphasize that change’. The new logo is sleek and more versatile, much like the direction the clothes are taking, while still keeping to its provocative, street style roots. Head of Karmaloop in Boston, Dina Sekoe agrees, stating that “Leah's release of her new logo coincides with Mob's upcoming 5th anniversary; the saucy logo perfectly captures Mob's continuing growth & increasing sophistication, while maintaining it's sexy in-your-face swagger. Love it!" Michael Dupouy of Paris’ L MJC (author of ALL GONE, editions 06-08) spoke on behalf of the brands European and male influence: “Honestly, I like it. It's more mature and it reflects the evolution of the brand to something more classy”. Sometimes your pout needs a fresh coat or new shade of lipstick, and MTTM is only looking to make their lips even more kissable."

Loveit?

Hateit?

Fuck it; get used to it.

Ask Lydia: Foundation Primer

Hi Lydia -

I've been reading reviews about different foundation primers and am thinking about purchasing some. Reviews seem to speak highly of it, but are primers really worth the money? Also, should you still use daily face lotion with a primer?

Thanks! --Brooke

Hi Brooke! Thanks for your question...this is a good one. Let's examine the wonderful world of primers:

WHAT IS FOUNDATION PRIMER?
Foundation primers add a layer between your skin and your makeup. They help even out your skin's surface and some reduce the size of your pores. Some primers may help extend the wear of your foundation by helping to absorb oil. If you're in a humid environment or have more oily skin, primer may help to keep your makeup from slipping.

You can get some similar benefits from applying moisturizer first, but primers take it one step further.

HOW DO I USE IT?
First off, it is not necessary to wear moisturizer and a primer. You can pick one or the other...or both. If you wear any eye creams or moisturizer, apply them first. Then apply the primer. With primer, it seems a little goes a long way, so go easy! Give yourself a minute or two to let the primer absorb into your skin before applying your foundation. Then just put on your makeup as you normally do.

I have noticed that primers do give my skin a completely different texture--more matte or velvety, which is nice.

WHAT PRIMER IS RIGHT FOR ME?
That depends entirely on your type of skin and your budget. Primers are relatively new to the market, and it seems like they're mostly made by the higher-end companies. The Cadillac of primers is, arguably, Smashbox's Photo Finish Foundation Primer. Some primers are tinted to counteract any discoloration your skin may have. My advice: head over to Sephora and talk to their people. They can help you find the perfect primer for you. And plan to spend at least $30 or so, depending on what you end up with.

Update: MAC 25% Off Sale: Three Offer Codes Are Working!

MAC just sent an email inviting customers to their 25% off sale TODAY, before the sale official starting date which is tomorrow. I noted that three offer codes are working as of today:

EARLY25
SAVE25
SUMO

**Please NOTE: offer codes are case sensitive, so be sure to use capital letters.

This is nice. =D


I'll probably get new brushes... lol.

¡Vivan, amen y rían!

Dear Old Dad

Father's Day is just around the corner, and while you could get your dad the usual gift (a tie, bbq equipment, etc.), why not pamper your poppa with some of these great products. Men like to be taken care of just as much (if not more!) than women do, and you can share your love of skin care/beauty products with your dad by checking out these goodies:

Every Man Jack Beginner's Luck Kit, about $25: Every Man Jack products are awesome! They're well priced and easy to find (just head to your local Target!), and they do a great job. Their signature mint fragrance is subtle and clean smelling, and will be fun to use. I've used their bar soap in the past--it was pretty and smelled great. Every Man Jack products aren't tested on animals and they're not packed with nasty chemicals like some shaving products. Totally budget friendly, Every Man Jack products are approachable and damn good!

Lab Series Daily Moisture Defense Lotion SPF 15 Gift Set, $37.50: Men need to use SPF just as much as women do, but we all know that they're far from enthusiastic about it. We get to sneak in our SPF by wearing foundation containing SPF, lipgloss with SPF, etc. This set, designed specifically for men, includes a face wash, shave cream, and sun block.

Sephora Brand Scent Sampler, $50: I love this gift! You get a box full of samples of the top selling fragrances for men. You also get a coupon for a full sized product of your choice. Your dad can test out ten different scents and then go back to Sephora for a full sized version of his favorite. If looking good and smelling good is important to your dad, this is a great gift...one that will let him get exactly what he wants.

Take care of your dad this Father's Day!

Look: Revlon CS E/S Quad in Coffee Bean -- Revisited

Yes, this quad again. I loooove this quad. So easy to work with. Besides, I wanted to redo this look because I didn't like the photos of the first look.

This time I applied the color horizontally, meaning side by side, instead of vertically. I started with the second lightest shade all over the lid and browbone area, then the darkest shade on the outer crease, the coppery shade (3rd from the top) on the middle of lid and the lightest shade on the browbone. I like it this way better.

Oh, I had to use two primers, MAC's Prep+Prime SPF 50 and Smashbox's PhotoFinish. It is so hot and humid here. I need a primer that deals with my dry cheeks and other that can control my oily t-zone, which is out of control!

I've been trying lately the Borghese Viso Primer and yes, I love it. Very moisturizing and I love how it feels like a non greasy moisturizer on my skin, super refreshing. But it doesn't handle my t-zone very well. PhotoFinish Primer and Clinique's Pore Minimizer T-Zone Shine Control and Instant perfector are my tools to deal with all this oil for now. The Refining Lotion is also good.

Do any of you have any recs for a primer that is great for combo/oily skin that works well under hot+humid weather?

Products used:

FACE
MAC Prep+Prime for Face SPF50
SMASHBOX Photofinish Primer -- on T-zone
REVLON Age Defying Spa Foundation in Light Medium/Medium
NYC Smooth Skin Loose Face Powder in Translucent
MAC Beauty Powder in Eversun
LAURA MERCIER Loose Powder in Stardust (highlighter)

EYES
MAC Prep+Prime for Eyes in Light
REVLON Colorstay E/S Quad in Coffee Bean
MAC Fluidline e/l in Dipdown
L'OREAL Voluminous W/P Mascara in Black
MAC Eyebrow Pencil in Stud

LIPS
Carmex lipbalm SPF 15
MAC Lip Pencil in Oak
REVLON Super Lustrous L/S in 125-Nude Velvet
MAC Slimshine L/G in Bare Necessity

(Pics with flash: big difference huh?)

Later!



¡Vivan, amen y rían!

TotalBeauty.com: What's your ideal Foundation?

In my case, foundation is the most important part of my makeup routine. I am always looking for the perfect one, still think haven't found it, but there are very good options out there.

Check out this quiz provided by TotalBeauty.com.

They recommended the Neutrogena Skin Clearing Liquid Foundation, but I tried it once and did not like it. Why? Because it sure didn't help controlling my oily t-zone. I thought it made it worse.

What about you? Agree? Disagree? Let me know.

Quiz: What's Your Ideal Foundation?

Find the formula that will finally give you flawless-looking skin.

We talked to celebrity makeup artists Gita Bass and Molly Stern and Procter & Gamble senior scientist Sarah Vickery to help you figure out the perfect formula for your skin type. Take the quiz to find out what kind of makeup your skin really needs and get expert tips on making your skin look its best. Take the quiz

Beauty Product of the Week: blu_ray High Definition Gloss

What is it? CARGO's blu_ray™ High Definition Gloss "provides a high-shine and plumping effect that makes lips look full and smooth —for picture-perfect results. The technology-driven formula has a plumping and line-filling effect for instantly fuller and smoother lips with long-term results. It delivers high shine without the shimmer—making it perfect for photography. The formula improves elasticity of the lips and provides the ultimate in hydration and comfort while the cap features Timestrip® technology to show you when your gloss needs to be replaced. Timestrip™ is a strip that remembers when a product was first opened and alerts you when it is no longer wise to use it. Simply insert the Timestrip™ into the cap and it is immediately activated. As the months go by the Timestrip™ window gradually turns red and, when the entire window is red, it is time to replace your gloss" Available in seven shades at Sephora for $24 a tube.

What did you think? $24 is a lot to spend for lip gloss. I get that. For $24, I expect great things from a lip product. This lip gloss does not deliver.

Before I get to my complaints, here's what I like:

• The applicator: I prefer the spongy-tipped applicators for gloss rather than the brushes. They somehow seem easier to use.
• The minty flavoring: The scent/taste of a lip gloss is very important, and this one is minty and fresh. Nice!
• The lack of glitter: I hate glosses that are sparkly. I am not a Twilight vampire and I prefer my lips to shine, not sparkle.
• The feel: This gloss is not sticky or thick--it's slick and feels pretty good on my lips.

Now, here are my concerns:

• The lack of color: The shades are subtle and very natural looking--this is both a good thing and a bad thing. It would be fine to wear a subtle shade if it cost about $10. But for $24, I want more va-va-va-voom for lack of a better word.
• The Timestrip: I don't know about you, but I tend to keep beauty products longer than I know I should. The Timestrip counts down time and when it goes red, you're supposed to replace the product. According to CARGO, this gloss needs to replaced with in 9 months of being opened. I'm already at the 3 month mark--man time flies by. The red strip on my lipgloss tube grows, taunting me. I know I'll have (and use) this gloss well past the 9 month mark, but every time I do so, I'll feel like I'm doing something wrong...like drinking expired milk.
• The overall blah-ness of it all: Like I said, for $24 I have high expectations, but this just falls flat. I've tried much cheaper lip products that have provided a much greater value for the dollar.
  

The final verdict? Unless you need to be on camera regularly and are really concerned about your makeup, I say skip this product. It's expensive and I don't see that it's providing the kind of results that warrant the cost. If you want a pricey gloss, try Dior's Addict line of products. They're pretty damn awesome.