Spring Fever

The other day, I was browsing through my "Loves" at sephora.com when I realized something odd: nearly every item was a flowery pink, peach, or lavender shade, and several items mentioned "rose" or "flower" in the name. Sure, my style is feminine, but I was never one to brand myself as "girly." The proof is in the pudding, though, and with spring (hopefully!) around the corner, I'm begging to be bathed in shades of delicate blossoms and blooms. Here are some of the beauty picks I'll be pining after come springtime:

1. L'Occitane 'Pivoine Flora' Hand Cream. ($12)

2. Formula X for Sephora in 'Alive'. ($10.50)

3. Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in 'Diffused Heat'. ($35)

4. NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencils in 'Bolero' and 'Paimpol'. ($25 each)

5. Josie Maran Pure Argan Milk Intensive Hydrating Treatment. ($56)

6. Chloe 'Roses de Chloe' Eau de Toilette Spray. ($120)

7. Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupté Lipstick in '007 Lingerie Pink'. ($35)

8. FRESH Rose Floral Toner. ($38)

What's on your spring wish list? Do you live for the ladylike floral shades of April and May, or do you prefer the dark, rich shades of winter? Have a happy Friday, and enjoy your weekend! Keep your fingers crossed for no more snow! Xx

ModCloth presents "Uniquely You"

Happy Thursday! It's been a quick minute since I've posted last, but between midterms and making up the ten million snow days (I'm not complaining), it's been a busy few weeks. Now that we're back in the swing of things (not to mention another school vacation coming up soon - yay!), I thought I'd share with you some exciting new developments over here in the Valley!

A few weeks ago, I was approached by ModCloth to participate in the Uniquely You campaign, where bloggers like me put together some seriously stylish Polyvore creations featuring the best picks from ModCloth.com. If you're not familiar with ModCloth, they are a giant e-retailer offering the most adorable retro and vintage pieces at really amazing prices (remember that adorable mug in my snow day post?). This week's set features the Evening of Extravagance dress ($160, available in sizes XS to 4X), a black and beige lace confection perfect for a glamorous evening out. When I saw the dress, I automatically pictured a crimson-lipped crooner at some swanky French lounge; hence, I present "La Chanteuse."

Have you shopped with ModCloth before? What are some of your favorite pieces on the site? Leave comments, and I promise lots of more exciting news and posts coming up soon! Xx

Naked 3: A Tale of Unrequited Love

When I was 18 years old, I fell in love. Not real love, of course, but the kind of impassioned, amorous affection that consumes a teenager who finds a boy good-looking. I couldn't eat, I couldn't sleep, I couldn't function knowing that this person existed and could one day be my boyfriend. The object of my desires, who we will call "John,"  was your run-of-the-mill teenage Lothario, whispering sweet nothings in my ear and promising a fantastic future together. His work was done; I was his forever! (Teen translation: I was his for a summer.)

Naked 3 Palette: you are my new "John."

Like John, you teased me. I saw you once, and I had to have you. I did my fair share of Internet stalking. Back then, it was logging into MySpace to see who was in your "Top 8" and comment on your profile; today, I check obsessively to see whether or not you're available for purchase (you are not). Why do you torture me so, Naked 3 Palette? Why did I not receive a notification that you were in stock? Am I not good enough for you, Naked 3 Palette??

There are others, of course. Just like there were other 18 year-old-boys I could've turned my attention to, there are other palettes: some cheaper, some probably better-looking, some that are less of a hassle. But nothing will sate me like you can, Naked 3. No other palette offers endless looks of rose-gold radiance, glowy shades of pinkish-taupe just waiting to grace my already-brown eyelids.

This tale of unrequited love is looking bleak, but I don't give up that easy. I will continue my pursuit until your slim, sparkly goodness is in my greedy little paws, and unlike John, Naked 3 palette, I know you know how to make a lady feel beautiful!

Is your Naked 3 story as sad as mine? Or are you living happily ever after? Leave comments below! Xx

This Week's Beauty Purchases!

It's been quite a productive week in beauty buys for me. I haven't had a chance to try everything out yet, but I figured I'd introduce all of the products and we can go into them a little further later on. Let's get started!

NARS Bronzing Powder in Laguna: After a less-than-stellar experience with Too Faced Peach Leopard Bronzer, I thought I'd try this cult classic. I detest super-shimmery bronzers, but the shimmer in this bronzer is almost undetectable; it just imparts a radiant glow. The shade "Laguna" is good for my pale winter skin. Maybe I'll try "Casino" in the summer time.

Maybelline Volum' Express the Colossal Cat Eyes Mascara: Is it just me, or are long product names super annoying? Regardless, I have mixed feelings about this mascara. The curved brush doesn't really do much for me as far as volume, but it helps with curl. I think layering this with another mascara (probably my favorite L'Oréal Voluminous Carbon Black) would look nice. My only issue is that Maybelline mascaras are a real pain to take off.

Essie Nail Polish in Bahama Mama: If you're trying to get in on autumn's oxblood trend but don't want to take the full dive, this is a great way to start. I thought this color would just be a deep fuchsia, but the deep burgundy/maroon color is much more than that. Pretty and rich, perfect for fall and winter. 

Mary Kay NouriShine Plus Lip Gloss in Café Au Lait: I got this lip gloss for free with a top I purchased from Lulu's. Honestly, I thought the gloss I received was a sample size, so I reordered it thinking the retail size would be bigger. I was a little disappointed to find out the petite container is what you get. This gloss is nice and moisturizing, and the color is a great neutral for every day. Would I pay $14 for it again? Probably not. 

Oribe Maximista Thickening Spray: I am so excited for this product, and I haven't even tried it yet. I absolutely loooved Oribe Dry Texturing Spray. Maximista is a "thermal-protective body-builder," and I think using it in conjunction with Oribe Crème for Style will give fantastic results. Did I mention how amazing Oribe products smell? Mmm!

Real Techniques Powder Brush: This is my first Real Techniques brush, and I think it's great. Right now I use an Ecotools Bamboo Bronzer Brush to apply bronzer, and I think it's a little too heavy-handed. For a lighter bronzer application, especially on my pale autumn/winter skin, I think this fluffy brush will do the trick. I had a coupon at Ulta (yay!) and was able to get this brush for around $7 USD. Quite a deal for such a fabulous brush. Now I really want to try the Expert Face Brush. It's supposed to be great for foundation.

YSL Rouge Volupté Lipstick in #001 Nude Beige: This lipstick is creamy. Too creamy? It's too early to pass judgement. The color is a beautiful pinkish-nude, and the packaging is luxe, to say the least. It's a great match for my NARS Fantasia Lipliner Pencil.

Phew! That was a lot. I'm very excited to get better acquainted will all of these products, and I'll definitely keep you posted on what I'm crazy about and what is underwhelming. Have you tried any of these products? Let me know in the comments. Until next time! Xx

¡Bienvenido a Miami!

Well actually, adios Miami! After a particularly wonderful weekend in Miami, I am forced to face the reality that is damp and dreary Detroit. All that remains is my semi-decent tan and peeling forehead. Ah well, as least I have some pictures to remind me of that Florida sun. Take a looksie, and let's all close our eyes and pretend we are on a beach somewhere!

You'd think we were going to Miami for four months!

Weird yet super-comfortable harem pants brought to you by H&M.

The view of the bay from our room at the Fontainebleau.

News Cafe!

It's everywhere!

Adrienne, Menka and I at Louis Lounge.

 Yes, that's an Inglot! After hearing so much about the brand, my heart skipped a beat when I spotted an Inglot Store at Aventura Mall. I instantly fell in love with the super-pigmented eyeshadows and lipsticks, but alas, I controlled my impulses and left with only one eyeshadow duo. I'll do a separate post on the eyeshadow, so you can see the color and texture.

Dear Miami, I will miss you so. I can't wait until my next adventure, but I will be prepared with SPF 3,000,000 to avoid my third degree burns. Xx

Golden Globes Beauty - 2012

Well, well, well...it seems like award season has snuck up on us once again. I feel like it was just yesterday that I was fawning over Emma Stone's peachy perfection at the 2011 Golden Globes! This year, I'm pleased to say that there were more hits than misses; I thought everyone looked beautiful, minus a few dim stars (I'm talking to you, Angelina. Christmas was a month ago; why are you dressed like Mrs. Claus? I expected more from you!). It was hard to narrow down the best: Charlize Theron (her dress! that headband!), Kristen Wiig, Viola Davis, Michelle Williams...the list goes on and on. My absolute favorites were Jessica Chastain, Julianne Moore, and Kate Beckinsale.

Jessica Chastain is the next big thing, I'm telling you! Besides her amazing acting talent, she is a true beauty. Everything about this look was perfection: the oversize pearls, her hair's soft sweep back, the dusty rose lips. Understated but completely glamorous, Jessica Chastain shows that you don't need to overdo it to stand out. For a similar look, try Tom Ford Beauty Lip Color in Coco Ravish.

Kate Beckinsale is a real glamazon. Here, she's bronzy, radiant, and dripping in sparkle. Those earrings are to die for! This look pairs a bronze smokey eye with a light pink gloss. Her blush is tawny and placed under her cheekbones for lots of definition. Her hair is loose but elegant. This look is soft without sacrificing sexy. If you'd like to try this look, I suggest NARS Blush in Douceur.

Last (but certainly not least) is Julianne Moore, who I firmly believe can do no wrong, ever. Her fair skin is flawless and stunning, and her red hair is the most amazing color. I love how the jade green earrings compliment her Chanel gown. Like the other stars in this review, Julianne Moore's beauty is not overdone but still makes a huge impact. She's got a rose blush on the apple of her cheeks, a natural sheen on her lips, and lots and lots of dark lashes to intensify her green eyes. If you know me, you know I looove dark, smoky lashes. If you do too, why not try Benefit Cosmetics They're Real! Mascara.

Well there you have it, my top picks for the 2012 Golden Globes. Did you watch the broadcast, or see any photos online? If so, let me know what your favorite looks were! Xx

Photos from Getty Images and AP Photo

TIGI Cosmetics, Part 3 - Lip Color

On to the third installation of swatching all of the TIGI Cosmetics I can get my hands on. Today, I present lip colors. First, let's take a looksie at some Decadent Lipsticks! These lipsticks are described as having a "long lasting formula" with "no shine." TIGI also recommends using this color as a "lip stain, blusher, or even eyeshadow base" which kind of skeeves me out. I don't think I'd ever use a lipstick as an eyeshadow base. These lipsticks are super creamy and pigmented, and don't seem to rub off. Bliss, Faith, and Finesse are all amazing. Beauty is the strangest shade; it reminds me of a sheer version of Chanel's Paradoxal nail polish, if that makes sense. The only issue with the lipsticks, and one that might bother you if you're sensitive to this sort of thing, is the smell. They have a very strong lipsticky/waxy smell that you'd probably relate to kids' play makeup. The top photo is kind of horrible, as it doesn't show the iridescent shimmer in some of the shades. Click here to see an alternate photo which showcases this a bit more.

Top photo, from left to right: Decadent Lipstick in Gossip, Splendor, Bliss, Fierce, Honesty, Peace, and Happiness. Bottom photo, from left to right: Beauty, Faith, Loyalty, Power, Passion, Finesse, and Luxury.

Below, Lip Cremes, which contain antioxidants and emollients to keep lips moisturized. These come with a felt tip, twist-up applicator. These lip colors are very creamy, and most shades have some type of shimmer, with the exception of Miami and Manhattan. The formula is sticky and thick, but it doesn't feel uncomfortable. I think these are very pretty.

From left to right: Lip Creme in Maui, Monaco, Malibu, Madrid, Miami, and Manhattan.

And last but not least, Luxe Lipgloss. These glosses are super shiny and moisturizing. The glosses either have a peppermint or vanilla (smells more like chocolate, though) fragrance. Dumb Blonde is a clear gloss, and Superficial and Diamonds & Pearls both apply clear with gold and silver glitter, respectively. Goddess is the only shade that contains no frost or shimmer.

From left to right: Luxe Lipgloss in Superstar, Superficial, Your Highness, Goddess, Foxy, Dumb Blonde, and Diamonds & Pearls.

All of the TIGI lip products are impressive. They pack a lot of color and shine, and they all stay on well. As I said before, the only problem is the smell of the lipsticks, but if that is something you can ignore, go for it! If you've previously tried any of these products, leave comments below and let me know what you think! Phew, I just realized this was a wordy post. 

Oh, and happy Monday everyone! I hope this week goes by fast so we can get to all of the Thanksgiving festivities, hehe! Remember to vote in my poll below, please and thank you! Look for more posts this week on my latest beauty purchases, including foundations, lipstick and more. Talk to you soon! Xx

TIGI Cosmetics, Part 2 - Liners & Cream Shadows

So here it is, the first of a huuuge batch of TIGI Cosmetics swatches. I'll present all of the products a few at a time. Next week, I'll work on lip and shadow products. For today, we'll start with Pencil Liners.

Click to enlarge either photo!

From left to right: Eye Pencils in Black, Brown, Royalty, Blue, Peacock, Green, and Lip Pencils in Nude, Decaf, Espresso, Kiss, Couture.

And below, Long Wearing Creme Eyeshadows, followed by Black Patent Liquid Liner and the Precision Black Eyeliner Pen.

From left to right: Long Wearing Creme Eyeshadows in Bubbly, Brown Sugar, Purple, Playful, Imperial Grey, Black Patent Liquid Liner, and the Precision Black Eyeliner Pen.

The first thing I can say about all of these products is the longevity of wear. When I first played with the liners and cream shadows on Wednesday, they stayed on even after washing my hands several times. Today, it took some pretty heavy scrubbing to get all of the swatches off. 

I like the color selection of the eye pencils, especially Royalty, which is a pretty royal bluish purple with a touch of shimmer. Peacock seems a little electric for me, and Black isn't as intense as I'd probably like. The lip pencils are a nice texture, but I think the color selection could be a little more exciting. All of the lip pencils lean a little brown. The pencils are all very creamy and blendable, and they come with a little smudge tip on the other end. 

Cream shadows are not my favorite, so these aren't really an exception. As you can see from the swatches, it's hard to get the perfect amount on the applicator (which is a sponge tip). There is a nice variation of colors, though (I think the Imperial Grey shade is my favorite, followed by Bubbly). The Black Patent Liquid Liner is nice and shiny and black! It doesn't bleed, unlike the Precision Black Eyeliner Pen, which doesn't carry as much pigment as a black liquid liner should.

All in all, I really like the eye and lip pencils. The cream shadows are nice, but not anything to get too excited about. I'm partial to my MAC Fluidline eye liner, so I don't see myself switching to these liquid liners anytime soon. Let me know what you think of these products in the comments below, and let me know what you want to see next! Xx

TIGI Cosmetics, Part 1 (of a million, I'm sure)

Imagine the ecstasy that came over me today when I walked into the salon and my manager pointed out what seemed to be a beauty mirage. But no! It was real! I could reach out and touch it! The beautiful white plastic display sparkled like a priceless diamond. It was...


TIGI Cosmetics. Oh lordy, did I let out a scream! I was giddy like a six year-old on Christmas morning. I think I may have shed a single tear. Not really, but it felt like it was coming. And here it is!


Shadows and glosses and brushes galore. I've decided to swatch and review all of the products here over the next week or so, and present them here in separate posts. Let me know in the comments below if that's something you'd like to see, or if there is any product in particular you're curious about. I can't wait to get my hands on it all!

Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill Intense Eyeshadow

Hi dolls! I know you're probably starting to hate me for lack of updates, but I promise, many many new posts coming soon.

So I recently got my hands on Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill Intense Eyeshadow, which isn't necessarily a new product, but something I have been obsessing over since I first heard of it! These shadows are extremely pigment-packed, smooth, and stay on for ages. It's definitely the most luxe eyeshadow I've ever tried. The color payoff is amazing, and while the range of colors isn't anything groundbreaking, each shade is absolutely beautiful. Here are my four favorites:

Left to right: (4) Pulp Fiction, (2) Lust Red, (7) Sweet Fire, (5) Gold Blitz

As a longtime lover of gold eyeshadows, (5) Gold Blitz is exactly what I'm always looking for. It's a deep, rich, almost bronzy-gold shade that looks beautiful on it's own or with darker shadows.

Here's what this shadow looks like in its pot. Pretty marbleized colors coming together to create one fabulous shade. While the container seems small, it holds a good amount of product. With such strong color payoff using a teensy amount of product, I can see this lasting a while. Eyes To Kill shadows are definitely a luxurious product, and one will set you back $32 USD. I think it's a worthwhile splurge, and I can't wait to get my hands on a few more.

Have you tried Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill Intense Eyeshadows? What are your thoughts? Would you spend 32 dollars for one shadow? Leave comments! Xx

Summer Foundation

While it's important to practice good sun habits (like using sunscreen every day), it's unusual that a person's skin tone will stay the same shade throughout the year.  I, for example, have olive skin regardless of the season, but my paleness in the dead of winter contrasts greatly with the glow I get over the summer.  I noticed when I returned from Florida (back in February) that my usual MAC NW25 foundation was too light, although it was perfectly suitable a week before.  I've been using that foundation every day, but as summer approaches, I know NW25 won't cut it.  That's why I decided to purchase a summer foundation.

Take Vanessa Hudgens, for example.  Here she is (above), in all of her beautiful olive-skinned glory, but looking a bit paler than we usually see her.

While I'm sure her skin tone in the picture on the right is the result of a few encounters with an airbrush machine, anyone can see that the same shade of foundation would never suit both skin tones shown here.

Besides modifying every aspect of her makeup (frosty light pink lips are traded for a juicy rose gloss, pinky-coral blush takes place of a nearly naked face), the most obvious change is her tan.

I, for one, will be switching to NW35 in my favorite foundation, MAC Cosmetics Pro Longwear Foundation.

Take a look below!  Although it seems like only a subtle change, using a slightly darker foundation shade will really warm up your face over the summer months.  It may seem like a waste of money to buy a second bottle of foundation, but the customization you'll get (switching shades, mixing them together) will really make it worth your while.

Did you switch foundation for the summer?  What are your winter and summer shades? Leave comments!! Xx

Inside My Makeup Bag

Earlier this week I did a post on being organized, and after carefully pruning out my makeup bag, I have finally restricted it to simply the essentials.  I used to carry everything with my in my makeup bag; I'm talking eyeshadow palettes, a million lipglosses and lipsticks, tinted moisturizer, etc.  Now I store these things in my basket or in my train case at home, and keep things that I know I use on-the-go in my makeup bag.  Here's a look inside my makeup bag and what I carry with me:

How cute is that makeup bag? A fabulous gift from my best friend Viktorija.

Rosebud Salve - As I've said before, I'm mildly obsessed with Rosebud Salve.  It works wonders on my chapped lips, but leaves a pretty sheen.

Clear Eyes Eye Drops - Even though I've been wearing glasses almost every day lately, I do occasionally wear my contact lenses, and every time I do, my eyes get super dry.  I try to use these throughout the day to keep my eyes from falling out, ha ha.

Jane Iredale Active Light Concealer - I use this concealer for the dark circles around my eyes, and I love it.  I've got dark eyelids too, and this is creamy enough to highlight and cover.  And the pen apparatus is very convenient.

MAC Cosmetics Blush in Dollymix - Bright pink in the container, perfect flushed color on my cheeks. I use the MAC Cosmetics #129 Brush to apply.

Make Up For Ever Duo Mat Powder Foundation - Oily skin becomes a problem throughout the day, and this powder works wonders on getting rid of shine.  I carry the Bare Escentuals Full Flawless Face brush to apply this powder, instead of the sponge it comes with.

CoverGirl LashBlast Fusion Mascara and L'Oreal Voluminous Carbon Black Mascara - I always like wearing two mascaras.  L'Oreal Voluminous is my favorite because it's buildable and super dark.  I like to experiment with the second mascara I wear, and the CoverGirl was my latest try.  It's not amazing, but I don't hate it.

Maybelline Unstoppable Eyeliner - Rimming my eyes with black liner is an easy and quick look.

So there you have it, my essentials for a beautiful day.  What's in your makeup bag?  Are you due for a makeup bag overhaul like I was?

Monday is here, and I hope everyone has a wonderful week.  Xx

Academy Awards Beauty

The Academy Awards!  The Oscars!  Whatever you want to call them, the Academy Awards are the Holy Grail of Hollywood events, the highlight of award season, and the most exciting night of my life, ha ha.  I, of course, posted up for my annual Oscar celebration in the comfort of my living room, and could not be more excited to watch the show.  I feel that the celebs on the red carpet departed from traditional style this year, with many of the ladies choosing column dresses and leaning toward avant-garde styles.  Not to say that I didn't find any of the looks beautiful, but I am more of a traditionalist and would have loved to see a ball gown or two (or an updo!).  This evening, the Academy Awards churned out the usual stunners: Mila Kunis was tan and radiant, opting for a softer look than she has lately, and Amy Adams was a picture of perfection with brushed-out waves and a sparkling gown.  And how about all of the red!  Definitely the color of the year.  Of course, with the good comes the bad.  Jennifer Hudson sported a hideously lopsided updo, and Reese Witherspoon looked like she went out and bought a ponytail clip instead of styling her hair.  Tonight, I chose three favorite looks: Anne Hathaway, Jennifer Lawrence, and Halle Berry.

The lovely host Anne Hathaway had a million costume changes, and each was more beautiful than the last.  Here she is on the red carpet, sporting a loose, low bun, porcelain skin, and ruby lips.  I really think the lighter hair shade suits her well.  Anne followed the most basic rule of keeping the rest of her face relatively simple when wearing a red lip.  For a similar look, try Tom Ford Private Blend Lip Color in Smoke Red.

Talk about a bombshell!  Jennifer Lawrence evoked Scarlett Johansson (circa Golden Globes 2006) in a long red column gown, loose blonde waves, and a sexy smoky eye.  It's no secret that I am a giant fan of big hair, and Jennifer goes for lush volume without looking over-the-top (pay attention Reese!).  The eye color here is soft, smoky, and sultry.  Want to try it?  I'd suggest MAC Cosmetics Eyeshadow in Satin Taupe.

Halle always looks flawless, if you ask me.  I like her return to the cropped hairstyle (I didn't think long curls did much for her).  This evening, Halle opted for bronze tones, choosing to go heavy on the shadow and light on the lips.  I would love to try this look on myself soon.  If you would too, try NARS Single Eyeshadow in Galapagos.

Did you watch the Academy Awards?  No surprises as far as the awards go, I know!  What were your favorite looks?

Photos from Getty and Wire Images

I need to get ORGANIZED!

I am running out of places to keep things.  I have my train case for all of my makeup, my makeup bag for things I use when I'm out, but I hate lugging around a million things that I only use once a day.  In an attempt to get myself a little more organized, I've acquired this cute basket from Michael's to keep my everyday items together.  I'm talking primer, face lotion, foundation, etc. etc.  Rather than allowing everything to pile up on the bathroom counter, I figured this would be a good way to keep these items within easy access.

Next up is nail polishes.  I have a million, and I just throw them in some plastic tub and forget they exist.  It's sad!  I need a better system.

How do you organize your beauty products?  Do you keep everyday items separate from the rest of your stash?  How about your nail polishes?  I need some inspiration, people!

Today is Friday, yay! I hope everyone has a safe and fun weekend.  Xx

SAG Awards Beauty

If any of you read my Golden Globes Beauty post, you know I am absolutely obsessed with awards shows.  Tonight the Screen Actors Guild Awards were presented on TNT, and I have to say I was kind of underwhelmed.  January Jones and Natalie Portman both tried retro, sculpted wave hairstyles that were far from thrilling.  Claire Danes had a ton of shine going on: great on your hair, not on your face (I died for Claire's dress, though!).  Don't get me wrong, there were some amazing looks coming from the stars; Jennifer Lawrence, Sofia Vergara, Hilary Swank and Heather Morris all looked stunning.  The best beauty looks belonged to Mila Kunis and Amy Adams.

Besides Mila's highlights (which are absolutely amazing), her smoky eyes never fail.  I'd go so far as to say she has the best eye makeup in Hollywood.  She offset her green eyes with tons of blackened navy eyeliner and soft grey shadow.  She finished the look with a pale pink lip that isn't too matte or chalky.  For a similar look, I'd suggest MAC Cosmetics Eyeshadow in Print.

Next up is Amy Adams, who was one of my favorites simply because of her amazing pony tail.  I am a sucker for a sleek pony, and this is one of the best I've seen.  Amy usually sticks to a subdued makeup palette (I don't think I've ever seen her do anything too wild except for red lips), which is wonderful because she always looks polished and fresh.  To create a beautifully smooth pony, try L'Oreal Texture Expert Smooth Essence styling cream to start, and finish with Infinium 3 working spray.

I'm really looking forward to seeing all of the wonderful looks at the Academy Awards on February 27th.  What were your favorite looks at the Screen Actors Guild Awards?  Your least favorite?  Leave a comment and let me know!

Photos from Getty Images

Golden Globes Beauty

I absolutely adore awards show season!  As we all know, the Golden Globes were presented tonight on NBC (I was so excited that "The Social Network" won Best Picture- Drama, it was definitely my favorite of the year).  I watched in awe as the beautiful celebrities arrived wearing fabulous gowns and looking as great as ever.  I think a lot of celebs stepped their game up this year.  Catherine Zeta-Jones, Eva Longoria, Anne Hathaway and Natalie Portman were my favorite looks of the evening.  As far as beauty goes, I was really impressed with Jennifer Lopez and Emma Stone.

Seriously, how fabulous is J. Lo?  Her makeup is always flawless, and tonight was no exception.  Her dress was quite detailed, so I like how she avoided a complex hairstyle and decided to go for a sleek pony.  A silver smoky eye was the main focus of her face.  Even when other celebs try to tone down their makeup, Jennifer Lopez believes in old-school glamour.  I love it.  Trying to copy the look?  I'd suggest MAC Cosmetics Pigment in Platinum.

On the opposite end of the beauty spectrum is Emma Stone.  Her beauty look was much more demure, but stunning nonetheless.  Emma shows how you can coordinate your makeup to your dress without overdoing it.  The peach tone of her dress is enhanced by peach cheeks and light lips.  I like to call the color of her dress "Myrtle Beach peach"; it reminds me of Myrtle Beach t-shirts my parents bought us in the early 90's.  I know her thing is to be a redhead, but I enjoy her blonde hair- it suits her!  If you want to try the look, I'd suggest NARS Blush in Deep Throat.

While all of the ladies (and gentlemen!) looked great, these two really hit home runs for me.  What were your favorite looks from the Golden Globes? 

Photos from Yahoo and Getty Images

Summer makeup

I went to Nordstrom today to pick up some makeup I had pre-ordered, and they had some kind of special promotion and were doing makeup on customers. I picked up a couple of things from MAC's To The Beach Collection, Splashing lipglass and Marine Life highlight powder. I really love summer makeup, I love being tan, I love gold and pink and warmth and all of that fun stuff. I haven't been wearing too exciting of makeup colors lately, but I think I'll start doing fun looks again like I used to. I found this little survey on another beauty blog, and I thought it would be interesting to fill out!

Last mascara you bought: L'oreal Voluminous Carbon Black...the only one that goes on dark and thick enough

Last lipstick you wore: Kat Von D Painted Love lipstick in Stiletto (an orange red)

Last look you wore you LOVED!: Thick black winged eyeliner with a neutral eyeshadow, and MAC lipstick in Girl About Town (a bright fuchsia)...it looked kind of 80's but really cool

Last eyeshadow you fell in love with: MAC eyeshadow in Banshee

Last blush you wore: I never wear only one blush at a time; today I had on MAC cream blush in Posey, topped off with powder blush in Dollymix and Springsheen (both MAC)

Last time you washed your brushes: Maybe a month or two ago, I need to wash them again ASAP

Last nail polish you removed: Essie in Marshmallow, right now I have OPI Monsooner or Later on