Hi Guys & Dolls, welcome back. Today’s tutorial is the first in the 2  part series all about how to properly rock Silver/Grey & a Red Lip. This is a classic combination, one you see over & over again, because when done correctly, it’s chic glamour at it’s finest. That said, it’s also one that takes careful planning and restraint, or you can end up looking like you did your makeup in the dark -because you’re  a street walker.  One of the #1 “no-nos” I see is when someone pairs Silver & Grey eyeshadows with a slightly bluish cast, with a red lipstick that is warm (orange or yellow undertones). The overall effect of this is not the intended ultra chic look- you look tired and over done- the makeup is wearing you. I decided the best way to show the right way to pull this look off was to do 2 different versions, a warm and a cool. Today’s look is the cool one, but it’s important to point out that I didn’t go all-out with blue-based greys & silvers- the key is to keep it almost neutral. I only used one eyeshadow that pulls blue (MAC’s Knight Divine). I also went for a lipstick that wasn’t too bright or too blue-based. Each individual will need to decided for themselves their comfort zone, and what looks best on them, but I show a quick demo in the video for selecting shades. I hope this video is informative and fun to watch- I certainly had fun making it for you!

Here’s a list of what I used to create this makeup tutorial:

Face:

Make Up For Ever HD Foundation #115

MAC Pro Longwear Concealer NW15

MAC Prep & Prime Radiant Rose Highlighter ( mixed with concealer, Cheekbones & Nose)

Purely Cosmetics Diamond Powder

Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder (under eye)

MAC Strada Blush (contour)

Wet ‘n’ Wild Heather Silk Blush

Eyes:

MAC Painterly Paint Pot

MAC Typographic e/s

NYX Pots & Pans Jumbo Pencil

Sugarpill “Tiara” Chromalust

MAC Knight Divine

MAC Carbon

MAC Brule

Ben Nye Black Cake Liner

Fling Brow Pencil

MAC Opulash Optimum Black

MAC #33 Lash

Lips:

MAC Prep & Prime

MAC Russian Red

Until next time, be Vintageortacky, just be yourself!

-Cora

Hello Guys & Dolls,welcome back! Valentine’s day is just around the corner, and while not everyone is coupled up, I could think of no better time to start talking about Fragrance. This is the time of year ladies start hunting down the latest & greatest ”love potion” & gentlemen start hitting the beauty section of stores looking for gifts. I should know, I worked the last few years in cosmetic retail.  Long before I was a bona fide Makeup Junkie, I was a fumehead. while writing this post I found myself confessing my love affair with “juice”. More on that story later. Today I want to share with you, quite possibly THE coolest purse-sized perfume. ever.

Juliette Has a Gun is an independent fragrance company headed by Romano Ricci, the great-grandson of the couture designer Nina Ricci.   The brand’s concept is that a gun is a metaphor for perfume, a truly feminine weapon. So what better to carry your secret weapon than a bullet?

If you look closely you can see me in the reflection.

The Bullet opens to reveal a roller-ball of  concentrated perfume oil.

For reference, it’s about the same size as a MAC lipstick bullet

The Purse Bullet comes with “one in the chamber” and 3 waiting to be loaded. Haha! I crack myself up.

You can get the purse bullet in nearly every scent Juliette Has a Gun makes, but each set only comes with one scent. The set I have is “Lady Vengeance” a sophisticated blend of Bulgarian Rose, Patchouli, and Vanilla. Rose isn’t my thing, and on it’s own Lady Vengeance not my favorite scent, but I love to layer it with other scents to create a different mood.For a a fabulous review please click here for Katiepuckriksmell’s take on this ” Youtuhful Va-Va-Voom” .

Ok, ok, it’s really cool, how much does it cost? $75 on the Lucky Scent website. Ouch. This isn’t a very cost effective way to buy a purse perfume, but it is certainly the coolest. Keep in mind that very few fragrance companies are cruelty free. I contacted the company myself and they assured me that they do not, nor are their ingredients tested on animals. That makes the price tag easier  to swallow.  This was a  limited edition set, so if you just want the scent or are interested in smelling Juliette has a Gun’s other creations, check out:

Lucky Scent Also sell samples from $3-$4 of the Juliette has a Gun perfumes, up to $8 for other brands.

Juliette has a Gun‘s website. They sell a set of  8 samples for 7.90 euros or $10.25 USD.

Until next time, be Vintageortacky, Just be yourself!

-Cora

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Disclosure: The product in this post was sent by a PR firm for review consideration. Complimentary products do not receive preferential treatment; My viewers & reader are my #1 priority and I honor your trust by always being honest with you. This video/post contains opinions that are solely my own; I am not influenced by, nor do I represent any company. All Products shown are cruelty-free (not tested on animals) to the best of my knowledge.

The other day I blogged about this amazing new nail polish collection from China Glaze. Pastels & Brights & Rainbow Glitter OH MY! The Collection isn’t set to launch until February, but lucky for me, my local beauty supply already had them for sale!!! It’s a local place called Beauty Source. I don’t know if it’s a chain; I go to the one in Alameda CA, but I know of one in Piedmont as well.

I wanted to pull a Pokemon Trainer and “Catch ‘em all” but I just got the four  that appealed to me the most, & now that I’m looking at them all lined up, they look like Easter Eggs!

ElectroPop Nail Polishes From L-R Aquadelic, Sunshine Pop, Gothic Lolita & Techno

Sunshine Pop

This is a really beautiful sunny yellow, with a cream finish. Unfortunately, it has a runny yet thick, streaky formula that many yellow polishes have. This took 3 coats for it to look opaque/smooth. I’m not very patient with polishes, but I have so few yellows, and this one is more workable than others I’ve tried. Does anyone know of a great Yellow polish with a great formula from a  cruelty free brand?

Gothic Lolita

What a wonderful name. It certainly sounds much better than what Courtney Love called that look back in the 90′s: KinderWhore. This like most purples this was a bit hard to take an accurate picture of,  so it gets 2, one in the shade, one in daylight. The finish is interesting,  overall it looks like a cream, with a little shimmer secret. It’s a creamy grape, not too bright, not too pale. This is what I wanted Grape Pop from 2 years ago to be. This is gorgeous, if you like Grape purples you’ll love this.

Aquadelic. Easy to apply. Cream Finish. Dries Quickly. The true shade of Tiffany Blue. Mint-Aqua describes it well. This is my favorite of the bunch, which came as no surprise since I’m obsessed with this shade of Aqua right now- I want to re-do my bedroom in shades of plum and aqua. Purple will always be my favorite colors, but I’m having a torrid love affair with Aqua. This polish is just stunning, and I think I’m going to need a back up, because I can see myself wearing this a lot.

Now I said Tiffany Blue so I’m sure you’re all now wondering how it compared to For Audrey….

For Audrey on the Left, Aquadelic on the right, both 2 coats, no topcoat.

As you can see, For Audrey is bluer, a more subdued color overall, and slightly less pigmented, where Aquadelic is bright, but not neon, nearly opaque in one coat, and very Aqua. I’ve seen both colors in a Tiffany Store, so I’d say both are accurate ”Tiffany Blue”. Aquadelic is much closer to the box color though.

Techno is a repromote from another collection (I can’t remember but I think it was 2 years ago)I didn’t swatch Techno on it’s own but I did one coat of it over the other polishes:

Sunshine Pop & Techno

Gothic Lolita & Techno

Aquadelic & Techno

Funny enough, this is the most color-accurate picture of Aquadelic.

What? China Glaze Electropop Polishes

How Much- It Varies. the Press release says these will sell for $7 and that’s what I paid, but I”m sure they will be cheaper on nailpolish sites, Sally Beauty Supply etc.

In a Nutshell- If you like bright colors go for it. I think I’m going to pick up a few more colors when I see them being sold online a bit cheaper.

Until next time, be Vintageortacky, Just be yourself!

Me on my First Day At MAC

Hello Guys and Dolls! I debated back and forth if I should say anything about this, since I where I work is my own personal business, but it’s not exactly a secret either. I work for MAC Cosmetics. Cat’s outta the bag! I’ve worked at MAC for about a year and a half now. I started at a counter, and I’ve worked at the store of my heart’s desire for almost a year now.  I have the best co-workers, many of whom inspired me to work for MAC; I work at a great location, and have amazing regular customers. Incredible opportunities have come my way while working for this brand, and I’ve grown as an Artist and as a person. I’ve met a lot of YOU while working there and I kid you not, 99.99 % of the people I’ve met have made my day- I’m just as excited to see you as you are to see me!  I love my job, and as most people who work for MAC will tell you, MAC becomes such an important part of your life. At this point I know it may seem like I’m bragging, but I’m not:

Saturday is my last day as a permanent MAC Artist.

Many of you will wonder why I would quit a job I love so much, and it’s both simple and so, so complex.

Before I was a MAC Artist I was a YouTuber. I genuinely love showing & teaching (a phrase I picked up working at MAC) and on YouTube I get to do that on a grand-scale. My tutorials are viewed all over the world, and help everyday people improve their makeup skills, provide entertainment, and sometimes, boost their self-esteem. Many people write to me and say how I’ve inspired them and it touches me to know that my videos have that affect. I simply don’t have the words to describe how much I love being a YouTube Beauty “Guru” Goober.

Many of you already know this, but for those who don’t, YouTube takes a lot of time, dedication & hard work. I’m not complaining, I’m just telling it like it is. I hate that week after week I have so many amazing video ideas, but most often I’m lucky if I get one video out a week. I really want to be more consistent, but I suffer from a lack of time. We all get the same 24 hours. Sure, I could half-ass it and churn out more videos, but I’m a Virgo, so I am a firm believer in doing something right, or not at all.

Doing YouTube and being able to touch the lives of so many people is a once in a  lifetime thing, and I want to dedicate myself to YouTube & Blogging as much as I possibly can.  In addition to working at MAC and making YouTube videos I also do freelance jobs as a makeup artist. While I’m perfectly happy to be a Jill-of-all-trades, I made a pact with myself  that I was going to find a better work-life balance, and in order to do that, I have to  cut back somewhere.

I gave my notice at MAC nearly 3 weeks ago, and for the last 3 weeks (maybe a bit before) my mind has been a bit cloudy. It’s not because I’ve been second-guessing myself; I debated leaving for a while, and I tried to make it work, but finally I realized it was the right thing to do. This being my last week, I’ve been in this funk, and I was literally unable to film, because I was just too distracted. Afterall, my decision to leave MAC seems crazy after I just gushed about it. I wanted to work for MAC pretty much since I fell in love with the brand (and makeup) in 2005. The best analogy I can think of is this: It’s like breaking up with someone you’re in love with because you want different things. I still love my job, but the timing is not right. I could see myself coming back to it later on, but I’ve got these other things that I feel I need to explore. Thankfully MAC has a freelancing program, so I’ll still be able to work there from time to time (it’s like being on-call, they call you when they have extra hours/need a shift filled).

If you read this whole Novella you’re a saint. This is so much to think though and I’ve been rehashing it with friends & family who “get it” but really you’re who I’ve had in mind. I care deeply about being the best YouTuber and blogger that I can be, and I feel I’m making the a move in the right direction.

Here’s to a great 2012!

Until Next time,

Cora

Hello Guys & Dolls!

China Glaze recently announced a new Nail polish collection for spring called ElectroPop. This collection is filled with brights & pastels- perfectly on-trend for spring/summer. This is what Chian Glaze has to say in the press release:

Where heavy metal meets rocker chic, China Glaze® introduces the Spring 2012 collection, ElectroPop. Inspired by all things girly, edgy and fun, the 12 shades of ElectroPop bring out the inner rock star in all. For flash and glam this spring, China Glaze® hits the stage in style! ElectroPop will be available February 2012. Individual shades retail for $7; 6 piece collections retail for $42.

There are 12 shades in all, here’s a breakdown of the names & descriptions:

Kinetic Candy- Touch the sky in light blue crème
Electric Beat- Periwinkle nails for a wink worthy performance
Aquadelic -Pool blue for nighttime gigs and daytime fun in the sun
Gaga For Green -Green lacquer for the girl craving the limelight
Sunshine Pop -Shine in the spotlight in bold yellow
Make Some Noise -Rock the mic in tangerine
Wicked Style- Party cocktail tropical punch
Fuchsia Fanatic- Fuchsia pink for the rocker diva in us all
Gothic Lolita -Steal the show on girls night out in seductive purple
Dance Baby -Hit center stage in cotton candy pink
Sweet Hook -Blow a kiss in dreamy lilac
Techno- Glitter confetti polish for a dazzling topcoat finish or all over finger tip bling

You can buy each chade individually, or buy them in sets of “Lights” or “Brights”

Brights Collection From L-R: Techno, Aquadelic, Sunshine Pop, Gaga For Green,  Make Some Noise, and Wicked Style.

Lights Collection From L-R: Fuchsia Fanatic, Dance Baby, Electric Beat, Kinetic Candy, Sweet Hook & Gothic Lolita

Who else is super excited about this?

Until next time, Be Vintageortacky, Just be Yourself!

Hello Guys & Dolls, welcome back!  I don’t know where you are in the world, but here in Northern California winter came on quite dry this year. I live in an old drafty apartment, (cold, dry air) with one wall-heater (more dry air). Lately my hair, face, body and hands are screaming on the top of their lungs- “FEED ME SEYMOUR!”. 

I typically keep my face & body in check by switching  moisturizers/lotions, and do what I can for my hair limiting hot tools & using conditioning treatments/serums (more on those in another post). My hands are another animal and one that is a year-round issue for me due  to my lifestyle: typing, using hand sanitizer many times a day (even more when I’m doing makeup) washing makeup brushes & dishes (though I try to wear gloves when washing dishes) and probably the #1 issue:  a general dislike for texture on my hands, i.e.  hand lotion/cream. I cannot stand the feeling that there is something on my hands- I don’t even like using most hand sanitizer that has Vitamin E or Aloe added since it feels…icky.

Mid-December I bought a cool-mist humidifier, and while it’s made most of my dry winter skin calm down, my hands are still dry.

A few weeks ago I was cleaning out a drawer and found this set of hand creams/lipbalm duos that Beautylish sent me to review AGES ago (ok, in August). I’d completely forgotten about them; since my hands were like itchy sandpaper I decided to give it a go.

This hand cream feels rich & luxurious from the start and sucks right into my skin leaving my hands feeling smooth & comfortable; My hands feel like they can breathe. They recommend using 2 layers but I didn’t find it necessary. This hand creme has a yummy but not cloyingly sweet butter-cream frosting type scent, officially called “almond pie”, which surprised me since I don’t usually like almond scented things. (geeze Cora, you don’t seem to like anything today).

Duette Luxe Lip Balm & Hand Creme both openings

Got to love a company that doesn’t test on animals, and reminds you to recycle. Made in France? The cherry on top.

Clear Lipbalm, unused

Red lipbalm with mirror for on-the-go application.

The fact that this has a lipbalm attached is just genius.  It has made it very easy for me to create a routine with this; At night I do my facial skincare (again, another post dahling), then apply the lipbalm and hand cream. Done & Done. It’s convenient, it smells good, and most importantly it doesn’t feel “icky”.

Two things to mention: The company claims that these have UV filters in them but the product does not have an SPF rating so please do not rely on these for sun protection. Also this hand cream isn’t exactly a bargain. The Duettes are $38.50 for the set- roughly $20 each. Ouch. I’m hoping these will get me though the winter, but if they don’t I might repurchase- surely the only thing holding me back is the cost. Due to the expense and how good this works this is my “special” hand cream.

What? Votre Vu Bebe Duette Luxe Lips & Hand Creme

Where to buy: Here

How Much? $38.50 for 2 1.35 oz Hand creme & 2 .05 oz Lip Balm

In a nutshell: This hand cream is Luxurious and feels light on the skin- and the addition of a lip balm in the cap is genius. If you have the money to burn try this, you won’t be disappointed.

I hope you enjoyed my Novella of a review, and if you know of any incredible hand creams that feel like nothing but truly hydrate your skin (and are not tested on animals) please let me know in the comment section below.

Until next time  Be Vintageortacky, Just be yourself!

Disclosure: The products shown were sent by a PR  firm or the Brand for review consideration. Complimentary products never receive preferential treatment; My viewers & reader are my #1 priority and I honor your trust by always being honest with you. This video/post contains opinions that are solely my own; I am not influenced by, nor do I represent any company. All Products shown on my blog are cruelty-free (not tested on animals) to the best of my knowledge.

*over a loud speaker*

CHEAP “FLAKIE” POLISH ALERT!

Finger Paints L-R: Asylum, Flecked, Flashy, Motley, Twisted

Oh Yes, that’s right. An inexpensive brand has come out with line of 5 “flakie” glitter polishes! WHOO HOO! The Down side? they are limited edition and selling out quick. RUN- grab your google & find the number to a Sally Beauty supply near you and see if they have them.. that is after you finish drooling over my swatches.

Here I did 2 coats of each “flakie” over 1 coat of Wet ‘n’ Wild black. Please excuse my messy polish application, the brush of the Wet ‘n’ Wild polish gave me a tough time.

Thumb= Flashy

Index= Flecked

Middle= Twisted

Ring=Motley

Pinky= Asylum

Did I mention these look particularly cool with a matte topcoat?

I used China Glaze Matte Magic

Price- $5.49-$4.99 with Sally Beauty card

Availability- Sally Beauty Suppl Stores (I haven’t seen these online yet)

Final thoughts- LOVE! The only one I’d Skip is Asylum because it’s too sparse, the milky base is too strong, and you could recreate it using Flashy and Motley.

Hello Guys & Dolls! I hope you all had a safe & happy holiday! Today we are continuing our (my?) Disney Princess Series with Sinderella! I pulled inspiration from Cinderella’s blue dress & gold hair and gave her a girlie-drag makeover. From the ashes rose a sexy vixen ready to meet prince charming and leave her evil step-family in the dust. I see the modern version as less of a damsel in distress waiting to be rescued, and more like Danielle in Ever After- feisty and strong, but open to love.  I love that movie!

Eyes:

Too Faced Shadow Insurance

MAC Contrast Eyeshadow

Milani Gold Liquif’eye liner

MAC Goldmine Eyeshadow

MAC Wegde Eyeshadow

MAC Brule

Ben Nye Black Cake Liner

Urban Decay Binge 24/7 Liner

MUFE #23L Aqualiner

MAC Opulash Optimum Black

Red Cherry #47

MAC Omega & Mystery (eyebrows)

Face:

MUFE HD Foundation #115

MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural

MAC Strada Blush

MAC Warm Soul Blush

Lips:

Wet ‘n’ Wild Just Peachy Mega Last Lipstick

Milani Designer Label 3D Glitzy Glamour Gloss

Thanks for stopping by!

{Note from Cora: This post was written by a guest blogger. If you’d like to be featured as a guest blogger please read this post.}

I hope you’re all having a great week. Today I want to share with you a makeup look that is both easy and striking! Unfortunately, I filmed the whole video, inducing removing the glitter before I took photos of it I do have a photo of the lips from a few months ago when I first did this, so I have that for you below, as well as a video ( it’s always nice to see makeup in motion anyway, right?)

I hope you enjoy it!

What I used:

face:

Temptu Air Pod Foundation

Temptu Concealer

Purely Cosmetics Diamond Powder

MAC Strada & Fleur Power Blush

eyes:

Too Faced Shadow Insurance

MAC Wedge eyeshadow

Urban Decay Deluxe eyeshadow Scratch & Shag

MAC Blanc Type eyeshadow

Urban Decay Darkhorse

MAC Haute & Naughty Mascara

lips

MAC Prep & Prime lip

Hard Candy Glossaholic

MAC 3D Silver Glitter