Blog | Page 21 of 225 | Makeup By Kim Porter

Emerald Green Smoky Eye using Black|Up Cosmetics

February 12, 2015 by Kim S. / Beauty, blog, Reviews, The Beauty Council / 41 Comments

Lately, I’ve been playing in a lot of makeup – creating fun looks. Just take a look at my Instagram feed as proof. Most of the products I’ve been loving these days are from Black|Up Cosmetics. I’ve mentioned them here previously when I reviewed their beautiful orange matte lipstick. This time around, I’m going to show you the Black|Up Cosmetics products I used to create this Emerald Green Smoky Eye.

I’m an eye shadow first girl, which means prior to applying my foundation I apply my eye shadow. Applying my eye shadow first prevent me from having to redo or touch-up my under eye products like concealer and powder, which can get annoying.

To create this Emerald Green Smoky Eye, I used three shades from the Black|Up Cosmetics Eye shadow Palette in PAL03. This palette features five eye shadows in four different textures: matte, satin, metallic, and sparkling.

First, using a blending brush, I applied the dark brown matte shade to my crease.

Second, I applied the emerald green eye shadow to my lid, and blended it up to the crease.

Lastly, I used the camel-colored matte eye shadow to blend out the emerald green and dark brown eye shadows.

Now that my eye shadow has been applied, I can now focus on my skin!

To cover up my dark circles and any blemishes I have, I used the pigment packed Black|Up Cosmetics Concealer Magic Quad in CR02, which worked well at hiding.

After that, I used the new Black|Up Cosmetics Contouring Stick in shade 03. The lighter shade makes for the perfect all-over foundation for my complexion, while the darker shade adds a slightly warm contour.

The Black|Up Cosmetics Complexion Enhancer adds a beautiful glow. I added it to my high points, like my cheekbones, and cupids bow. You can also mix it in with their CC Cream or liquid foundation, and even use it solo.

I then added some blush to the apples of my cheeks, and then I blotted out the shine in my t-zone using the Black|Up Cosmetics Two-way cake.

To complete the look, since I couldn’t decide on which Black|Up Cosmetics lipstick to use because I loved both of the matte lipsticks I received, I chose to use both: RGE38 and RGE32.

For my Valentine’s Day date night, help me decide which lip color I should wear, RGE38 or RGE32.

Beauty Deal!

Black| Up is offering our readers 20% off their products from 2/12 until 2/28 using the code: LOVE15 http://www.blackupcosmetics.com/

An InLinkz Link-up

Gabriel Cosmetics’ Zuzu Luxe Liquid Eyeliner {Review +Swatches}

February 11, 2015 by Kim S. / Beauty, blog, Makeup Looks, Product Swatches, Reviews / 11 Comments

PR SAMPLE

Winged eyeliner doesn’t come easy to most people, especially if you don’t have the right tools. Wouldn’t it be perfect if there was an eyeliner that allowed you to create the perfect winged liner or cat eye? Well, lately, I’ve been using the Zuzu Luxe Liquid Eyeliner by Gabriel Cosmetics, and I’m happy to report that it’s probably the most user-friendly liquid eyeliner I’ve used.

I know people, especially those new to makeup, tend to stay away from liquid eyeliners because they fear having uneven lines, raccoon eyes or worse. The Zuzu Luxe Liquid Eyeliner has a fine calligraphy applicator, making applying this liquid eyeliner easy, and mess-free.

I like that the Zuzu Luxe Liquid Eyeliner is both waterproof and smudge proof. The applicator tip is soft, and applies the liquid eyeliner effortlessly. It Zuzu Luxe Liquid Eyeliner dries quickly, too, which means I didn’t have to worry about my perfect winged eyeliner messing up.

I was provided the Zuzu Luxe Liquid Eyeliner in two shades: ‘Storm’ which is a beautiful midnight blue, and ‘Amethyst’, which is in my favorite color, purple. I’ve swatched both shades on my hand so you can see how well pigmented these liquid eyeliners are.

And of course, I have on ‘Amethyst’, demonstrating how smooth, and clean are the lines made with the Zuzu Luxe Liquid Eyeliners.

After seeing the results of using the Zuzu Luxe Liquid Eye Liners, what do you think?

Please share your liquid eyeliner mishaps in the comments.

About ZuZu Luxe: ZuZu Luxe was conceived and developed by Gabriel DeSantino, CEO and founder of GabrielCosmetics, INC. ZuZu Luxe’s products are made from 100% certified gluten-free and vegan ingredients. Theirskincare, Gabriel Organics, is NPA certified and provides a wide range of skin health products and benefits to fit individual skin needs. Their cosmetics are free of synthetic chemicals and include both bold and classic color palettesand a variety of essentials including brushes, cosmetic wipes, and nail polish.

Hair Care Tuesdays: 4 Tips for Wearing & Caring for your Hair Extensions

February 10, 2015 by Kim S. / Hair Care / 22 Comments

I can’t believe that this is my third guest blog post. I must say that I have enjoyed replying to all of your messages regarding the first two. It is funny because May 5th is Preeminence’s third anniversary and I have been planning for something major to celebrate. Before I begin with the juicy tips on caring for your hair extensions, I want to take a moment to inspire you to follow your passions! It does not matter what challenges you may have in your path, KEEP GOING!!!

Okay, now back to my favorite thing to talk about: HAIR EXTENSIONS or hair weaves. I get so many questions in my salon surrounding hair extensions. Questions ranging from what length looks the most natural, to what is a good price point, to how to tell if it is good quality and if I recommend any brands for multi-cultural women, especially those that wear clip-ins.

Here are the top 4 Tips to Assist You in Wearing & Caring for your Hair Extensions:

Tip #1: Do Your Research
It is easy to jump on the “hype” when a new hair extension line or company is launched. It is important to do your research.When I say research-I do not mean read reviews that people were paid for-but, to do your research on the company. In addition, inquire about ordering hair samples if they are available. Prices for hair samples can range from $5 and up.

Tip #2: All About Clip-In Hair Extensions

The one misconception that my clients have with clip-in hair extensions are not necessarily the quality or brand of extensions, but rather how to place them to get the most natural look, and how to properly care for them. I recommend that you do not sleep in your clip-ins as it can cause major breakage; take the extra time and remove them before bed. There are a lot of websites selling clip-in hair extensions, and the prices vary from affordable to expensive. With some time and patience, you can take wefted hair and make your own clip-ins, which is a totally different post .:haha:.). But, I have made a note to create a future post focusing specifically on this.

Tip #3: How to Take Care of Your Extensions

I have heard several of my friends criticize me for using my “expensive” shampoo on my extensions. I recommend that you treat your extensions with the same care that you do your hair. It is important to deep condition your extensions, especially if you add color to them. When washing your extensions never go in a circular motion as that will cause matting. Take your time to take care of your extensions and good quality extensions should last approximately 6 months to a year. At Preeminence Salon, we have a guarantee on our hair extension line for up to 1 year.

Tip #4: How do you establish which texture of hair is the best (i.e.Brazilian, Indian, Peruvian, Malaysian)

I am asked this question a lot from clients. The bottom line is that this is based on personal preference and what texture matches your hair texture in the state that you will be wearing and styling your extensions. For example, I prefer Brazilian extensions because it is closer to my natural hair texture. Again, if the company offers any samples, then that is a great place to start.

I hope that these tips are helpful if you are planning to purchase or currently have extensions that you are loving.

Comment below and let me know if you are currently using these tips and which one you will implement in your hair extension care regimen.

Hair Extension Deal Alert

If you are interested in Brazilian hair extensions, I am offering 2 bundles for $125 (FREE SHIPPING) exclusively for followers of this blog. Email info@preeminencesalon.com with the code MUAKP15. An associate will get back to you to take your order. We ship our Brazilian hair nationwide. We currently have straight, wavy, body wave, deep ripple wave in 12-32.”

Fragrance Friday: Valentine’s Day Fragrance Picks for Her

February 6, 2015 by Kim S. / Fragrance Friday / 19 Comments

AFFILIATE LINKS

Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching. Have you yet purchased your loved one a gift? I have the perfect gift idea that screams you’ve been paying attention to your significant other: a new fragrance.

Fragrances make the perfect gifts not only because it’s the gift that keeps on giving, but it is also very personal and transformative. You’d have to know a lot about the person you’re giving the fragrance to in order to make the right choice. Does she like more florals or citrus, or more musk or vanilla notes? Pay attention to what she is wearing now, and why. Also, scent has the strongest ties to memory, which means by gifting your love a new fragrance, you’re creating a [good] new memory this Valentine’s Day.

Keep reading for my Valentine’s Day Fragrance picks that are sultry, spicy, and sweet. They’re sure to heat up your Valentine’s Day.

1. Tom Ford Black Orchid

I own the 3.4 fl oz bottle of Tom Ford Black Orchid. My husband gifted it to me for Christmas. It’s become one of my favorite fragrances in my collection, and is definitely a seductive scent.

Notes: Bergamot, Citrus, Mandarin, Black Gardenia, Jasmine, Ylang-Ylang, Lotus Wood, Orchid, Spicy Floral Accord, Orchid (Tom Ford Black Accord), Patchouli, Sandalwood, Incense, Vanilla.

2. Coco Noire by Chanel

I stopped by Sephora on a hunt for new fragrances, and came across Coco Noir. This is intimate, seductive and intensely brilliant. Striking top notes of Grapefruit and Bergamot accentuate the floral accord, with Rose and Jasmine, while Indonesian Patchouli and Sandalwood notes add warmth.

3. Elizabeth & James Nirvana

Elizabeth and James Nirvana Black is described as “an addictive blend of alluring violet, sensual sandalwood, and rich vanilla that strike the perfect balance between masculine and feminine.”

Notes:
Violet, Sandalwood, Vanilla.

4. Gucci Flora 1966

Gucci Flora 1966 is inspired by the silk scarf created for Grace Kelly in 1966. It’s a sheer floral blend of elegance with sensual charisma.

Notes: Bourbon Pepper, Peony, Rose, Patchouli.

5. Odin 07 Tanoke

I reviewed the Odin NY 09 Posala a few weeks ago. Next to Tom Ford Black Orchid, it’s definitely a favorite; however, Tanoke is in the running. It’s deep and mysterious, and errs on the side of masculine. It’s definitely a scent for a power woman.

Notes: Top notes are ginger, bitter orange and black pepper; middle notes are guaiac wood, incense and nutmeg; base notes are Brazilian redwood, patchouli and black musk.

Beauty Deal!

After seeing the results of using the Zuzu Luxe Liquid Eye Liners, what do you think?

Here are the top 4 Tips to Assist You in Wearing & Caring for your Hair Extensions:

Hair Extension Deal Alert

Are any of these fragrances on your Valentine’s Day wish list?