Search A Chic Critique
Custom SearchConnect With Me
Archives
My Summer Foundation Tips for Glowing Skin!
Long-lost blog readers and friends, I apologize for the lack of posts the last 12 weeks. Let me begin by mentioning this addendum: my life is in a season of changes, not the least of which includes a move, city-to-city travel, and new gigs and clients. To say the least, I hardly have the time I’d like to devote to blogging and web content these days; however, I promise to commit to doing it more often!
A few of the questions I often hear from clients or when working on a commercial makeup shoot is, “What products do you use?” “How do you get your skin to glow and look so refreshed-looking?” “What foundation do you recommend for summer?”
A great picture of summer skin – and I’ll tell you how to get this look. from allure
To summarize, I’m going to give you my tips for having dewy, sun-kissed, luminescent skin for summer – an insider’s scoop, if you will, on the best makeup products to use during these warm, summer days.
My personal go-to’s and favies, at your request!
First and foremost, your makeup approach during the summer should be “less is more.” At the very least, I’ll show you how to wear makeup in such a way that people won’t even think you’re wearing it. They’ll just think your skin looks refreshed, awake, and glowing.
#1. MOISTURIZE (ideally use a moisturizer with an SPF of 30 or more)
Skinceuticals and Obagi all make great SPF/daily moisturizers, but the most important factor is SPF. Regardless of brand/price and whether you get it OTC/dermatologist’s office, make sure it has an SPF of at least 30 (if it doesn’t, layer an SPF underneath your moisturizer). I love tinted moisturizers for summer because they kill two birds with one stone! Your skin drinks in moisture, is protected, and simultaneously gets a sheer wash of color and coverage.
Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 20 (ten different shades to choose from), $42
Hands down, the best tinted moisturizer on the market – and an Allure Beauty pick. I use this on myself and on brides who just want a hint of sheer coverage (another great option to try is Nars Tinted Moisturizer w/ SPF 30). If you really want a low-maintenance summer routine, try Nars, because it’s three steps in 1. Protection – check. Sheer coverage and a hint of color – check. Moisture – check! This is how we do it, ladies.
#2. USE A LUMINIZER.
What’s that, you say? A luminizer gives your skin that effortless dewy “glow” we all crave for summer. No glitter here – just flawless, smooth, glowing skin with a hint of dewy shimmer. Put it on after you moisturizer and before you put on foundation. OR – try mixing it with your liquid foundation. To apply, use fingertips or a foundation brush to put it on your cheekbones, cheeks, brow bone, and on top of your eyebrows (framing your face, if you will). I also put a little down the bridge of my nose and on top of my cupid’s bow to make lips look fuller.
Try Jemma Kidd’s “Mannequin Skin” complexion enhancer (my friend Danielle introduced me to this product, and now I use it on brides all the time!) $25 at Target.
#3. And last, but not least, USE A SHEER, LIGHTWEIGHT FOUNDATION (or you can omit this step, and just use a tinted moisturizer & a luminizer).
I am seriously obsessed with Giorgio Armani’s Luminous Silk Foundation ($59) right now – a daily must-have summer foundation for me. I got turned onto this product after working with Marisa Runyon (Rachel Zoe’s right hand lady & brand director for Rachel Zoe, Inc.) for a few days on a shoot a couple of weeks ago. Her skin was fabulously flawless, but not cakey: the perfect amount of coverage without looking done-up, and I had to know her secret. It’s quite an investment for foundation – I know – but the reward and outcome is worth every penny. A little bit goes a long way with this sheer foundation, so you’ll be amazed at how little product you need for excellent, yet lightweight, coverage. I use #5, but my skin is fair-to-light.
Other honorable mentions (a.k.a. secret weapons)
Bobbi Brown Shimmer Bricks (dust on top of blush along cheekbones, inner corners of eyes, and on brow bone as a highlight – insane, natural-looking shimmer without being cakey or glittery).
Bronzer – my personal favorite is Nars Bronzer in “Laguna.” Nice saturated hint of color without being orange – zing! Insider tip: brush bronzer on the places where you would naturally get sun on your face (forehead, nose, apples of cheeks). Make sure to blend, blend, blend so that there isn’t a demarcation of dark and light where your face meets your neck.
Stay chic,
Annie
P.S. Hint, if you want compliments on your skin this summer, use a luminizer.
Laura Mercier Holiday 2011
Laura Mercier’s Holiday 2011 collection is in, and my, her winter collection is pleasing to the eye. Her eyeshadow palettes have a gorgeous array of shades, and one even includes three eyeliner options. I love the rich, warm tones – purples, mauves and pinks (sure to be universally flattering to all eye colors) – as well as all of the neutral, earth tones.
Luxe Eye Portfolios, $98 each
Her highlighter has a nice, smooth texture, and the gold-champagne sheen provides a subtle wash of shimmer across your cheekbones. I was almost cooing over it on Saturday at the Laura Mercier counter.
Laura Mercier Face Illuminator, $42
Nail Lacquer in “Twilight,” $18
Last, but not least, I tried on this deep plum from her “Twilight” collection: sexy, yet subtle, and a beautiful, rich tone for the holidays.
Any of these palettes would be a popular gift to give your mom, sister, or girlfriend for Christmas – you can’t disappoint. Or, freshen up your makeup collection this fall and winter!
Stay chic,
Annie
Marrakesh Chic
Who wouldn’t want their makeup to look like this? Simple, pretty, fresh.
Model wearing Rich Lip Color SPF 12 in “Desert Rose.”
Fortunately, you can achieve this look with Bobbi Brown’s new Fall 2011 makeup collection, “Marrakesh Chic.”
This fall collection is sublime (not that I would expect anything less from Bobbi). What I love about her eyeshadows is how easily they layer and mix well with other shades. The sand dune and pink silk colors work well as all over lid or highlight shades, and any of others could be used in the crease for added depth or a smokey look (try wine or coffee bean). Any combination of these warm colors could be used to create multiple daytime and nighttime looks, and the pigmented, darker colors can double as liner. (Rich Color Eyeshadow, Limited Edition, $24 each). I want all eight!
How rich are these glowing and vibrant shades of pink? Universally flattering, rosy, and completely natural for fall. Lip colors, $23 each
This line has just recently hit department stores for fall, and I’m itching to add it to my makeup collection.
Stay chic,
Annie
images via here & here
No Party Like a Palette Party
I’m all for makeup palettes – they’re compact, convenient one-stop-shops. When I’m doing bridal makeup, it’s much easier to bring eyeshadow palettes as opposed to hundreds of smaller, individual eyeshadows.
Here are two of my go-to’s.
I couldn’t live without my Urban Decay “Naked” Palette ($48), with it’s panoply of browns, golds, mochas, and taupes. I love the blend of matte and metallic eyeshadows. With lighter shades for brow highlights, darker matte shades for liner and adding depth, as well as shimmery tones for your lid and inner eye corners, this set is both versatile and dynamic. How gorgeous are those 12 colors? Plenty of day-to-night makeup looks can be achieved, and I promise – it’s universally flattering on a variety of skin tones (and eye colors).
Another recent obsession is Bobbi Brown’s new Tortoise Shell “Sand” eyeshadow palette ($60).
I’m an avid supporter of all things Bobbi, especially her shimmer bricks and concealer / corrector. This palette is no exception. The terra cotta and apricot buff/matte shades (middle left) are beautiful on the eyelid, and although natural-looking, add depth to the eye. The colors are meant to be layered upon, so you really can’t go wrong with any of them. My favorite part of this compact? The deep, chocolate matte brown which can be used as a liner: it’s rich, pigmented, and really pops against my green eyes. Chocolate brown is an ideal alternative to black liner – much less harsh and overpowering. Again, this palette can easily take you from day to night. (Note: if you’re fair or light skinned, I would suggest the “sand” tortoise compact. However, if you have olive or dark skin, I would suggest the “bronze” tortoise palette).
What are you waiting for? Go out and get one: you won’t regret your purchase. I used the Naked Palette on a test run for a bride last week, and plan on using both palettes at a wedding I’m doing the makeup for this weekend. Get gorgeous!
Stay chic,
Annie
It’s a Lipstick Love Story
For the last couple of months, I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect coral shade of lipstick.
Ever since I saw Taylor Swift perform her hit song “Mean” at the ACM Awards this year, I’ve been coveting her lip color (for an up-close & personal glance, see the performance here). As you can see, it’s not too orangey, and it’s not too pink.
Opinions aside, Miss Swift’s makeup always looks flawless and pristine.
Above: red carpet shot from the ACMs. Below: screen shot from her live performance at the ACM awards show.
When I saw this performance, I knew I had to find a similar lipstick – and bingo – I did.
Meet “Crosswires” by Mac.
Crosswires – Mac Cremesheen Lipstick, $14.50
In person, the tube looks like a classic, bright coral. It almost reminds me of a juicy watermelon color! In the picture above, it appears more red, but once applied, it’s THE perfect shade of coral – a reddish, pinkish-orange. It’s quite pigmented, but the cremesheen finish is glossy. Here’s what it looks like on:
I can’t wait to apply it to a client or as part of a beautiful bridal look.
Will you get caught in the Crosswires?
Stay chic,
Annie
Concealer 101
“Hi Annie! Can you recommend some of your favorite concealers? I’ve yet to find one that isn’t runny or cake-like, and the problem at my age is that concealer starts to set in lines underneath my eyes. Help!” ~ Beth, Nashville, 54
If you know me, you know I can be a bit anal retentive about concealing: especially my under-eye area. I’m vigilant about covering up the purple-ish tones I have, and am constantly scouring the market for a product that does the trick. It’s rare I find concealers that don’t cake, or don’t give me that “white” look underneath my eye (mismatched skin tones).
ENTER: Yves Saint Laurent Touche Eclat, $40 (pronounced “two-shh ee-claw”)
What it is:
A luminizing pen that brings light and radiance to the skin, immediately erases any signs of fatigue, and brightens the complexion.
What it does:
Loved by models, makeup artists, celebrities, and women everywhere, the award-winning Yves Saint Laurent TOUCHE ÉCLAT Radiant Touch is like eight hours of sleep and an instant pick-me-up in a magic wand. With a few strategically placed strokes of TOUCHE ÉCLAT, the complexion immediately looks rested, rejuvenated, and radiant.
What else you need to know:
TOUCHE ÉCLAT banishes shadows and tired-looking eyes by adding light and creating an instant lift to the eye area. TOUCHE ÉCLAT widens eyes when used between the eyebrows and along the sides of the nose, and creates fuller looking lips when used in the hollow of the chin and around the contour of the lips. It’s formulated for all skin types and for anyone who wants instant radiance, luminosity, and lift. ~ From the Sephora Website
Ladies, I couldn’t have said it better myself. This product is goddess-divine. Yes, it’s a bit pricey, but I have found myself recommending it relentlessly – and for good reason. It’s lightweight, yet manages to provide the perfect amount of coverage underneath the eyes without the dreaded “caking” effect. Who wants to use an under-eye concealer only to find it further emphasizes fine lines and wrinkles? No, thank you. The T.E. also acts as a highlighter, brightening your eyes and giving you that coveted “wide-awake” look, while simultaneously camouflaging blue-ish/purplish under-eye tones. This is, hands down, an ACC favorite, #1, highly-recommended product.
Other Honorable Mentions:
Laura Mercier Secret Concealer, $22
From the LM website: Laura Mercier Secret Concealer is a moisture-rich concealer designed specifically for under and around the eye area to conceal discolourations and dark circles.
A great, all-around, all-over concealer – for those problem areas, redness, blotchy skin, or a break-out. A bit thicker for moderate to maximum coverage. Creamy and gentle underneath the eyes – apply with a concealer brush or gently blot with your finger.
Bobbi Brown’s Essential Foundation Stick, $40
From the BB website: Bobbi’s innovative Foundation Stick is designed for portability and adjustable coverage. Easy to apply and blend all over the face or just where you need it. For all skin types, except very oily.
I’ve been using the BB Foundation Stick since high school, and it still remains a favorite; this was my “original” under-eye concealer. I never saw an ounce of blue or purple peek through when using this stick! Again, it’s an excellent all-over concealer, and a bit more matte than the Laura Mercier.
These are my suggestions and favorite products. What are your go-to concealers? Have you tried any of the products above?
Stay chic,
Annie
Wedding Makeup Preview
Cue Darlene Love (what you must listen to while reading this post). For those that grew up with “Father of the Bride“, you know there are certain songs that evoke those special bridal feelings.
One of my favorite moments as a stylist is being able to interact with brides as they anticipate their impending nuptials – the excitement, the nervous flush – all culminating in the moment they walk down the aisle and lock eyes with their groom. Surrounded with bridesmaids and sometimes the photographer, the bride meticulously prepares for the moment that will be her “unveiling”: pinning her hair in place, perhaps the veil, and of course, last-minute lipstick blots. Whether your makeup style is loose and ethereal, or glamorous and sexy, there’s a reason a bride always looks “blushing!”
Carla wanted a natural-looking palette, with the emphasis on the eyes. No ’smokey’ eye look – just soft pinks and raspberries with a subdued, brown eye, and a bit of shimmer for a fresh, “dewy” appearance.
Stunning.
Flowers and dresses and cake, oh my! Wedding season is just around the corner.
Stay chic,
Annie
1st four photos via Memories are Forever Photographers (St. Louis, MO); 2nd via Suzanne Thrower
Spring 2011 Makeup Trend: Corals & Oranges
Bright coral-oranges were ubiquitous at New York Fashion week this year. From Alice + Olivia and Marc by Marc Jacobs to Jill Stuart and J. Mendel, this fresh & flirty color has made it’s way into spring 2011 makeup color palettes. Youthful and vibrant, corals and oranges have a way of making your skin look luminous and bringing out the highlights in your hair. Surprisingly, this is actually a color that is universally flattering and easy to pull off – regardless of your age or skin type!
Orange lips on the Spring 2011 runways of J. Mendel, Ohne Titel, Imitation, and Milly. Photos: Amy Sussman, Getty Images | Astrid Schwiarz, Getty Images| Andy Kropa, Getty Images| Frazer Harrison, Getty Images (clockwise from top left)
According to Charlotte Tilbury, makeup artist (and Jill Stuart makeup colorist), “This color suits most people. It’s more modern than last season’s red lip and it complements every skin tone and makes your eye color pop. It’s incredibly effective!” says Tilbury.
Orange lips on the Spring 2011 runways of Jill Stuart, Isaac Mizrahi, Lela Rose, and Luca Luca. Photos: Thos Robinson, Getty Images | Frazer Harrison, Getty Images | Jemal Countess, Getty Images | Frazer Harrison, Getty Images
- To pull off this look for day-time, use a semi-sheer lipstick or gloss; this keeps the color from looking too harsh & overwhelming. Matte colors are appropriate for nighttime.
- Not sure which shade of coral is for you? Fair skin tones should look for shades with pink or blue undertones. Medium-to-dark skin tones can go with a more concentrated wash of color with warmer undertones; these colors really pop against dark skin tones.
ACC picks & suggestions:
Fair
Stick with cool corals in pinkish shades if you have porcelain to light skin.
Josie Maran Magic Marker Lip Stain in Jive, $19
Rimmel Moisture Renew Lipstick in Coral Shimmer, $6
Medium
Jemma Kidd Makeup School High Shine Silk Touch Lipgloss in Coral, $32
Cover Girl Outlast Lipstain, Coy Coral, $7.28
Olive / Dark
Enprani Dear Nature Lightsome Lip Gloss in Shine Coral, $20
Sue Devitt Microquatic Lip-Enhancing Gloss in Coral Sea, $22
Spring is on the horizon – more previews to come.
Stay chic,
Annie
Chic Cosmetic Carryalls
A stylish, yet practical makeup bag is a must for toting around your best cosmetic essentials. Kate Spade has always designed chic printed cosmetic and jewelry totes, and designers like Tory Burch are constantly coming up with “not your grandmother’s makeup bag” styles.
Whether you prefer a larger cosmetic bag, or a three-piece travel set, there are a multitude of options for all you makeup lovers out there.
Tocca Blue Cosmetic Bag, $36. I love this preppy, geometric print, and it’s roomy and spacious!
Kate Spade Sant Elmo Stripe Large Cosmetic Bag, $125
Trina 3-Piece Travel Set, $32
Tory Burch Alice Large Cosmetic Case, $95. The orange is so mod and unexpected – not “cutesy” at all (so you’ll like it if pink isn’t your thing).
Please, ladies, be honest with yourselves. Is the bottom of your makeup bag covered in dried nail polish and caked in powder? If so, it might just be time to consider investing in a new bag. With a plethora of fashionable bags to choose from, there is no excuse not to keep your makeup clean and organized in style.
Stay chic,
Annie
Lady in Red
You might as well call me “the pink lady” – my makeup bag is filled with shades of raspberry, blush, hot pink, strawberry, and bubblegum lipsticks. Although these shades suit my cool undertones well, I’m always up for trying something new. Red lipstick is the exception, however; I’ve been reluctant to try it because who wants to look matronly, washed out, or goth? It’s so easy to get it so wrong.
Oh, but I’ve changed my mind.
image via here
I am head-over-heels for red lipstick right now, and to all my chic, stylish readers and clients out there – you can pull it off. Trust me. Here’s how to wear one of fall’s hottest makeup trends and make it work for your specific skin tone:
- A red lip speaks for itself. As such, keep the eye makeup minimal: a defined brow, some black liner on the upper lashes, and a couple of coats of black mascara will balance out the dramatic lip. I like a simple bronzed cheek to go with the look. Don’t overdo it with a smokey eye. Let the red lip speak for itself. (Notice how Hayden does this perfectly above).
image via here
- The key is finding the right shade of red for your coloring. Keep these tips in mind while shopping for the perfect shade. Blondes with fair to medium skin tones should look for a cherry red with blue undertones. Brunettes with medium to olive skintones should look for more of a true red (think fire engine or apple red). Lastly, if you’re very dark-skinned, you want to go with more of a merlot or brick red (very deep, rich, velvety undertones).
image via here
- Another trick: bring a piece of white paper with you to test the colors. You’ll really be able to see the undertones this way.
My picks:
Givenchy 39 Absolutely Irresistable Red (classic red), $28 (I’m doing a bride’s makeup in October, and this is what I’m using on her. She’s blonde/blue-eyed, with fair to medium skin).
Mac Russian Red, $14.50
Nars Jungle Red, $24
Red lipstick is tres’ chic and perfect for the urban sophisticate. A classic, yet modern, look.
Stay chic,