Makeup: MOD, Portland Mercury

Blush Beauty Bar Beautypalooza 9

Elizabeth Mollo — Fri, 17 May 2013 11:57:00 -0700

Need a little perk in your beauty routine? Well you are in luck, because Blush Beauty Bar is celebrating it's 9th birthday this weekend with Beautypalooza 9. Today through Sunday Blush will be offering a gift with every purchase, special deals and discounts, and $5, $10, and $15 beauty bins. Plus the staff is always super friendly and helpful so you'll be looking fabulous in no time, all without breaking the bank.

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Yoko Ono's Make-up Tips for Men

Elizabeth Mollo — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:23:00 -0700

Hot on the not so recent heels of her Opening Ceremony Collection, Yoko Ono just released her Make-up Tips for Men video. It's not so much a video tutorial as it is an inspirational video with animations of cute boys and text about rainbows, sparkling, and "pull[ing your date] by his dyed blond hair." The video is short and sweet, and I can totally see the party-goers of Blow Pony heeding Yoko's advice.

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"Rocked" to the Nines

Rose Finn — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 10:59:00 -0800

On Sunday I attended "Rocked: a Couture Bridal Event" at the Nines Hotel, in their grand ballroom. Although there was nearly six times more cake than couture, I still got a glimpse at what this season's (wealthy-ish) brides are wearing; ranging from "meh," all the way to "fuck yeah, that's red!"

Alongside vacation packages, limo rentals, and boundless booze, local designers sat perched and ready to sell.

Holly Stalder was the first designer I encountered, and I'd say the most interesting and "Portland-y" of any of the designers there. Though her designs still carried frills, lace, and flowers, the shapes and textures were more creative. Her waist and hemlines flowed elegantly, making the dresses appear more fitted and comfortable than the stiff wedding cakes we're usually expected to don as a bride. Her dresses would more likely be seen on a pouting ex-lover in a Shins video, rather than on Bristol Palin's wedding day.

One of my favorite dresses was from Divine Designs:

Though it seems simple and classic, there are complicated mesh layers that create a beautiful, flattering pattern; it even has a bit of a pinkish tint to it. I had to stop myself from walking out with the mannequin.

Sun Jin Lee caught my attention not with gaudy lace or voluminous poofs, but with flattering, classic lines. Her pieces were a nice range of sophisticated with innovative touches, all the way to dresses that you could wear in the picnic scene of a Fellini film. Their pricing caught my attention as being somewhat more accommodating, as well.

There was also jewelry...

...And lingerie...

...And some more conventional wedding dresses, for those who want to get back to basics.

Sophie Chang only had two dresses showcased, but took very different approaches on a similar structure. I wasn't crazy about the angles on her white dress, or where it jutted out; this dress would probably look best on someone with less robust hips.

Whereas her red dress was the belle of the ball. With an open back, and tailored, layered lace, this dress I found to be the most compelling and memorable.

Though "Rocked" provided less fashion than advertised, it seemed all-around to be a comprehensive convention for those awaiting bridehood. I'd recommend attending events like these if you're planning a wedding in the near future; just don't eat before you go (rookie mistake).

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European Union Banning Animal Testing

Elizabeth Mollo — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 15:44:00 -0800

Even though I am not a straight edge vegan like I was in high school, I have remained a staunch supporter of using beauty products that are not tested on animals and make a conscious effort to put my money where my mouth is. Recently Europe, who has always been on the forefront regarding these types of issues, has stated that they will be banning the sale of animal tested cosmetic products and ingredients on March 11th, 2013. This comes has a huge victory for animal rights advocates everywhere, and hopefully they will set an example and other countries will soon follow suit. One country that will be harder to crack will be China, however, as they actually require animal testing on all of their products, even ones that are manufactured in other countries. While there are some Chinese scientists who are taking steps to remove this requirement, setting up ethical regulations in China in general is pretty hard (remember the fire that no one noticed for three hours because their air quality is so bad?).

In the meantime, we can make sure to buy products from companies that don't test on animals, and write to the companies that do and state you are boycotting them until they change their ways. For a comprehensive list of companies that do and don't test on animals click here.

Sources: Refinery 29 and PR Newswire

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Nars + Andy Warhol

Elizabeth Mollo — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 09:30:03 -0700

Never have I even pondered the idea of waiting outside of a store in some long line to be the first to gain the spoils of a product launch, until now. Nars is teaming up with the Andy Warhol Foundation to release a limited edition make-up collection inspired by and covered with images created by the iconic artist. The launch will be split into two, where the first, released on October 1st and sold in Sephora, will be an ode to Warhol's pop art (Debbie Harry, Soup Cans, etc.) The second release, available on November 1st and sold in department and specialty stores, pays homage to The Factory with much of the color palette and packaging being silver, black, and white. I seriously can't wait for this collection to come out, and I will throw down to get my hands on it if need be.

via WWD

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Beth Ditto and M.A.C. Collaboration

Elizabeth Mollo — Wed, 30 May 2012 16:54:13 -0700

Portland's very own Beth Ditto, frontwoman of The Gossip and Jean Paul Gaultier muse, will be releasing a limited edition make-up line with M.A.C. Cosmetics, set to hit stores on June 7. The 25-piece line boasts a bright palette of yellows, pinks, and purples and is on trend with the neons that will surely be everywhere this summer. Check out the super adorable behind-the-scenes footage of Ditto (and her mom!) during the photo shoot for the campaign and pictures of the line itself, which will be sure to fly off the shelves.

Source: styleist.com

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Creating Faces with Tabiba Styles

Coco Madrid — Tue, 29 May 2012 09:18:17 -0700

I had the opportunity to attend my first Portland RAW Artist showcase at Bassnova this past week. What drew me to the event was long time friend, makeup artist Abibat Durosimi also known as Tabiba Styles who was a featured artist at the event.

I wanted to catch up with Abibat to talk about her tour stint with Prince, her recently published work in a European E-Magazine, and her shoot for Solestruck’s Summer Lookbook among other things.

Just a little background: Abibat has more than 15 years in hair-styling and 7 years of makeup experience. She has had the opportunity of working with celebrity clientele (PRINCE, PEOPLE!) as well as assist in the art direction of high-end editorial shoots and runway productions. She has also been invited to be a key makeup artist at Portland’s own Fashion Week and yearly Bridal shows.

So the catching up did not happen right away as chaos was building backstage. In a tiny room where models and designers moved in and out, Abibat had to use Tim Gunn’s famous line “Make it Work!”. There was little room to finish hair and makeup for 10 models, so "make it work" was an understatement. This lady set up shop with her assistant Courtney and prepared for some intense work while beer and bodies swirled around her. It was truly amazing to see her focus and pose in such a crazy, confined and confusing situation.

What she produced was an illusion of effortless cosmic gypsy perfection! Inspired by the fashion designer she was paired up with [Tina Marie Fisher], Abibat had a solid concept as well as a natural creative flow that brought the overall vision together. It was a joy and pleasure to bear witness to her craft.

You have heard her name here and you will again as Abibat has her hands in some exciting up and coming projects that will showcase her raw natural talent as an artist here in Portland and beyond.

I also was able to capture some cute outfits after the show. Here are some of my favorite looks!

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Q&A with Makeup Queen Bobbi Brown

Kayla Rekofke — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 12:30:15 -0800

I literally just got off the phone with Ms. Brown herself, which for me is a dream come true. As I mentioned in the first post about her upcoming visit, I have long admired Bobbi’s work and personal philosophies toward the beauty industry. Don’t forget to RSVP to her Master Makeup class where you can meet Bobbi and learn the tricks of the trade—click here for more details.

Mercury: It is often very rainy here in Portland; can you recommend some smudge proof ways to keep your makeup looking fresh even when you get caught without your umbrella?

BB: We make a lot of long-wear products; what’s important is that it stays on and looks smooth. The problem can be when the textures of products start to run and create fine lines that sometimes women don’t even have. I recommend our cream shadow, long-wear gel liner applied with a fine eyeliner brush and you’ll be set for two days if you don’t wash it off! It’s also important to remember mascara; our no smudge mascara is great especially if your face gets wet.

If you only have time to add one product between the office and happy hour, what would be your pick for the most current look?

BB: The most current trend I would recommend is a really bright neon lipstick. It’s been all over the fashion week runways, and the girls who work at the magazines. The thing is it should be for someone who is young and doesn’t require a lot of other products, because this trend can look a bit dated with a full face of makeup. For me, I like to put on some black gel liner before going out for the night.

Your skin is absolutely flawless, what are some of your favorite skincare tips?

BB: Well, I’m a fanatic about eating right and taking care of yourself. If you’re eating twinkies and smoking cigarettes it’s not going to help your skin. Eating veggies and drinking lots of water is important. For my skin, I like to layer moisturizers; I start with a hydrating cream and then put a richer balm over it.

Can you tell me more about the Pretty Powerful campaign?

BB: Pretty Powerful is basically as simple as it gets, I believe that all women are beautiful without makeup, but with the right products you can be Pretty Powerful. Any woman can enhance her beauty and be more confident if you take care of yourself.

I admire your ability to make women feel naturally beautiful and confident while embracing their individuality. What is one piece of advice you’d give to your 20-year old self?

BB: Be patient and open. Realize you are a work in progress; you won’t be fully cooked yet until your 50s. I’ve never felt better than in my 50s—you go though each decade and learn more about yourself.

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Holiday Vamp

Kayla Rekofke — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 08:59:00 -0800

Don’t be a frumpelstiltskin this holiday season—add a dash of festive holiday make-up and try out a new 'do while you're at it. Sure, the classic red lip will do in a pinch, but a little sass is exactly what the holidays call for. I’m leaning towards a nontraditional inspiration: Think dark lips, strong brows, glitter lids, holiday floral crowns, and colorful wigs.

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Effortless Summer Hair & Make-up Do’s and Don’ts

Kayla Rekofke — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 08:59:00 -0700

Do: Try milkmaid braids. This easy style is fun, flirty and great for those sticky summer days. Plus, they help protect your scalp from the sun!
1. Start by parting your hair down the middle into two even low ponytails.
2. Braid each pony. Extra points for adding fabric or colorful ribbons.
3. Sweep each braid up and around the top of your head to create a crown like braid.
4. Secure with bobby pins and smooth over any strays for the look of one continuous braid. Finish with a spritz of hairspray

Don't: Cake on the foundation. Ladies don't melt your face off, switch over to a tinted moisturizer. My favorite is by Laura Mercier lightweight, moisturizing and it has SPF 20 in it. Another really great, mineral based (and local) option is offered by Event Cosmetics.

Do: Rock some seriously bright lipstick. Hot pink, sherbet orange, and cherry red are the perfect statement for summer. Pair with barely there eye make-up and a hint of bronzer.

Don’t: Skip the mani/pedi. If you’re low on funds it’s always fun to have your girlfriends over for a little sun and nail painting. If you can head to the salon, try shellac, my best friend (who is a barista and extra tough on her mitts) swears by it. This special polish stays put for up to two weeks with virtually no chipping. One of the local salons that offers shellac is Lace. Varying shades of blue, from robin’s egg to deep turquoise, add an unexpected pop of color.

Do: Employ the help of dry shampoo. It’s summer, live a little and sleep in. No one will ever know you skipped your morning rinse with the help of Kevin Murphy Fresh Hair. Spray onto roots and work through greasy locks until the product is fully absorbed. Works great for a variety of hair colors and textures.

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Tea in the Sahara

Marjorie Skinner — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 15:56:11 -0700

Kirribilla dress:

Plus TRE ring:

Plus summer makeup (and lovely packaging) from the Paul & Joe Beauté "Sahara" Summer collection:

= Bubble Boutique and Fez Beauty's formula for your summer makeover. Check it all out Thursday at the "Tea in the Sahara" trunk show, featuring discounts, goodie bags, raffles, discounts, makeup consultations, and refreshments inspired by the desert. Six-9 pm at Bubble, 1100 NW Glisan.

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Behind the Scenes

Marjorie Skinner — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 09:34:04 -0800

UPDATE! This event was canceled due to the weather. Boo!

If you're planning to venture out into the elements this weekend (I can't imagine how else we're supposed to finish our shopping and shipping), consider popping into the ooncey warmth of Aura for makeup, hair products, and vodka. It's "Behind the Scenes," billed as an event that transports you to the backstages of fashion shows, with professionals demonstrating product while you sip on vodka tastings from Artisan Spirits. While the makeup featured raises my hackles because it's apparently another multi-level marketed company (Is it just me, or are there suddenly more of these? Is it an economy thing, with people looking for extra income or what? Am I over-reacting that I find it so off-putting?), I'm still interested: It's Created Natural, a local line of mineral makeup and skin care. Obviously, mineral makeup is old news, but despite the fact that a makeup artist friend dismisses it as "dirt in a bottle," I'm an adherent because it really does seem to be gentler on the skin, and I'm always extra-interested in supporting a local company. I just would rather do so at a store. Like with normal stuff. And without a company rep talking to me about "business opportunities." Anyhow... the hair care line being featured is one I'm already familiar with, and another local, Sidlab (I'm way into the cornily named but awesome Curlista curl gel, which is super hassle-free and idiot-proof to use—just comb it into damp hair and let air dry, or if you really want to get fancy, twirl up sections of your hair with it before air drying—and perfectly augments natural waves and curls), and will be demonstrated by company founder Eric Allen Nelson. Counting the vodka, that's three local product lines that will be featured at the event, so when they no doubt try to sell you things at the end of the night, any money you drop will go back into the local economy. Not a bad deal. It all goes down this Saturday, the 20th, from 6-9 pm at Aura, and will also feature a silent auction to benefit Friend in My Pocket, which sounds kind of dirty, but is actually a non-profit that... well, that has an incredibly vague mission statement. (Do I seem cranky today? Sorry.)

If there's one thing in this entire blog post that I absolutely trust, it's Curlista. (Okay, that and the vodka.)

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Win! Fat Fancy Makeover

Brett Glass — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 15:51:36 -0700

Do you want to be as fabulous as the woman in this photo?

Carlee Smith of Fat Fancy
Well, you can be! The ladies of Fat Fancy, Portland's monthly plus-size vintage extravaganza, want to makeover one deserving reader.
You'll get:
* A really cute look from the Fat Fancy sales floor, including accessories
* Style advice from the Fat Fancy team: Annie, Carlee, and Mel
* Hair and makeup!
* Your photo right here

To enter, email your pic, your clothing size (dress, pant, shirt, etc.) and a little bit about yourself to:
fatfancy@gmail.com.

Good luck!

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