Christmas Wish List

You know what? I don't even understand why people have to ask me what I want for Christmas.  There is no better gift than the gift of makeup! Okay, so you might think you don't know my style or that I might already have something, but 2 things to remember: 1) Call me Ms. Resourceful. If I have something, I will make use of it (unless we're talking about scary knock-offs) and 2) It's always best to have more than 1 stock of makeup that you really love.

In any case, if you really need to know (haha now I'm Ms. Fisher), then here are some items I am totes after:


1. Chanel's Rouge Allure Velvet Collection in L'Exuberante


I can't say it any better than Chanel: "Perfect to give and to get..."

This collection was made for me.

2. Temptu Airbrush System 

So I guess it's a good thing that I didn't get my airbrush kit yet, because this sleek, new set makes everything that came before it look old school.

This modern set is just what I need.

3. MAC Gareth Pugh Lipstick in Fervent


MAC and Gareth Pugh - it can't get any edgier than that. I am in love with the whole collection, especially the deep purple lippie that best represents the genius avant-garde designer's signature style. The Flight Lash falsies are out-of-this-world and ultra chic too.

Shadowy. Esoteric.

Flight Lash. Amazeballs.

The MAC Gareth Pugh Collection

4. Miss Piggy for MAC - 36 Lash and Penultimate Eye Liner

You have to admit that Miss Piggy was your first ever encounter with a diva as a child.  Not only am I thrilled about the fab lil' lady and the rest of the Muppets' return to the big screen, but also about this super cute "collaboration" that MAC did with the Muppet queen herself.  1 thing you can always expect from her - doe eyes - extra full lashes and killer winged eyeliner.  I'm not sure if I could pull off her trademark pink eyeshadow, but I sure am after that liner and those falsies.

Miss Piggy - forever fab.

Miss Piggy's collection > Wonder Woman and Hello Kitty's collection put together

5. Nars Modern Kabuki Collection

Rest assured that if I received anything from this collection, you would have given me a gift that would last a lifetime.  Each and every single thing is so gorgeous - too gorgeous - that I would never use anything; instead, I would put it on display.

I love my clients, but if I had this set, there's no way these would be touching their faces. Sorry!

6. Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler

It's the best...and I need a new one.

Still the best according to InStyle for the past 12345...years and any makeup artist/fanatic that you'll come across

7. Mally Beauty Evercolor Lasting Liner

Marathon wear and 2 brushes to achieve multiple eyeliner looks.  Love it.

Not officially available here. Multiply sites are the way to go.

8. Guerlain's Rouge G Lipstick


For that million-dollar smile.

9. Viktor & Rolf for Shu Uemura Eyelashes


Finely feathered and packaged with lovely display masks.  I'd probably use them, but then keep them on the display shelf.

10. Dolce & Gabbana Makeover

I was over the moon when I found out that D&G crafted their own makeup line.  How fun are their sleek, gold compacts?

11. Clarins Radiance Plus Golden Glow Cream-Gel and St. Tropez Everyday Gradual Tan for Body


I refuse to tan, because I'm terrified of wrinkles and normally, I'm not into self-tanners.  However, when I came across these products through a friend, I have to admit I was a little amazed at how seamless and natural they looked when applied.  I wouldn't use these everyday, but on days when I'd want to warm up my look.

12. OPI Lincoln Park After Dark


Nail polish is makeup's sister so naturally, I'm always on the search for great shades to go with my makeup.  I normally wear darker stuff these days so I became an instant fan of this midnight purple color by OPI.

Possibly to be continued... ;)

Makeup for Chaos & Confused Weather

I know it's been a minute since my last post and it's mostly because I haven't had enough idle time in the past few weeks to drop lines for everyone.  From makeup jobs (which I am either not allowed to post pics of yet or do not have the official photos for yet) to projects (one very significant makeup-related project I will be unveiling soon) to preparation and execution of my son's birthday weekend (yes, it was a series of fun celebrations); busy, busy, busy.

In effect, I haven't really come across anything particularly new in makeup and beauty this month.  However, that doesn't leave me empty-handed as I write today.  I figured I would share information connected to what I've been through lately and I'm sure you can all relate.

Basically, for my son's main birthday celeb, Hubby and I took him and close family members to a full day at Enchanted Kingdom (for non-Philippine based readers, this is our humble take on a theme park FYI).  Let me tell you that it was one chaotic day. First of all, lines were insane due to the fact that it was a weekend crowd plus several different schools had chosen to do their "family day" all at once.  Can anyone say body heat? Then of course, we had to deal with the schizophrenic weather ("I'm blazing hot" "No, I'm raining cats and dogs" "Uh uh, I'm blazing hot").  Which leads me to my topic for the day: makeup for chaos and confused weather.

Here are the products that I packed for EK:

Olay Total Effects w/ Cooling Essence - Some people don't like Olay moisturizers, because they're more on the heavy side, but this one is water-based and light in texture.  You feel a mild, cooling sensation along with quickly locked in moisture, slight pigments to cover imperfections and of course active agents to protect against the sun and signs of aging. Great for any skin.

Max Factor Facefinity Compact Foundation (in Natural 03) - I skipped on concealer and instead relied on my trusty compact which provides ample coverage and also has SPF15.

Just can't shake my infinite love for Facefinity

L'Oreal True Match Blush in Golden Apricot - For a modest amount of color and sparkle that wouldn't battle with natural flush from the heat.

L'Oreal Double Extension Mascara - Somehow, I prefer using this compared to waterproof mascara, because at times, even waterproof formulations smudge from extreme weather situations or lashes tend to lose their shape in the humidity.  Whereas, the conditioner (the white side) of the tube acts as a sort of extra hold gel on the lashes.  Therefore, when mixed with the actual mascara, lashes take shape (even without a curler), stay curled, and mascara only comes off when rubbed off (you can feel an almost glue-like texture when you rub your lashes in between your fingers with water or product).

Mentholatum Lip Ice - A little shimmer, a little moisture and sunscreen. 

Paul and Joe Moisturizing Mist - Spritz. Ahhh.

Tony & Guy Dry Shampoo - No one wants sweaty scalp smell right? 

• OFF! Lotion - Does that count as a beauty product? In any case, didn't want to take any chances with mosquitoes.
• Rubbing alcohol - Definitely not really a beauty product, but still very necessary!

So there may have been a few items that I could have brought along like actual sunscreen, but fortunately, it didn't stay scorchingly sunny for long periods of time anyway.  With respect to the products I did bring, well, the point was to maintain a decent look, hygiene, and protection from weather conditions.  Besides, I find it weird when ladies look all made up at active spots like theme parks.  I like to be a bit more realistic when it comes to beauty for these types of outings so I skip things like filling in eyebrows, lipsticks, eyeshadows, eyeliner, and the like (even the most amazing fixier sprays can't save those when you get soaked on the water rides!).  A simple look also poses as less of a hassle when it comes to touching up, because mind you, not only do the rides have crazy lines; the bathrooms lines are equally crazy.

Now I'm not sure that any of you are planning to make similar trips in the near future, but the holidays are just around the corner so you never know.  Nevertheless, I hope this information helps in any way possible for other hyperactive happenings. Have a great week ahead!

Cheat Sheet #1

Cheating that does absolutely no harm to others. 10 products that you can emulate and "cheat" your way out of purchasing.

1. Nude lipstick - Just use concealer. Makeup artists have been doing it for ages for runway and celebrity clients. I, personally, think that nude looks best matte, but you can also add gloss for some shine.
2. Liquid liner - Just get a highly pigmented dark shadow and scrape some powder out using a spatula and place it on the shadow's cap or a mixing palette if you have one.  Add just a few drops of water and using an angled brush, mix to get it even before applying.  This is better than simply wetting your brush then dipping into the powder, because you want an even texture.
3. Gel liner - The same process as liquid, but add a touch of clear lip gloss.
4. Lip gloss - Petroleum jelly plus shadow! The best part about this is that it is great for locking in moisture into your lips and you can come up with an endless array of shades.
5. Cheek stain - Sun screen plus lipstick.  Who would have known? After a thorough and balanced mix (I'd say 1 part sun screen and 2 parts lipstick), then smooth it on to your cheeks using your fingers and set with powder.
6. Tinted moisturizer - Just add foundation to your moisturizer! Start out with just a little and build it up with more color as needed then see if it blends into your jawline.  I usually go with 2 parts moisturizer and 1 part foundation.
7. Color correctors - First, to get rid of dark under eye circles, you can add the slightest amount of orange lipstick to your concealer.  Voila! Sleep deprivation erased.  Second, to cover up freckles and sun spots, add some purple lipstick to your concealer.  Lastly, I'm not sure that anyone would have green lipstick to add for correction of zits, so if you do then great!  If not, just remember to cover up with a shade that matches your skin as opposed to the usual one-shade-lighter-than-your-skin-tone.
8. Brush cleaner - These can cost you an arm and a leg, but dishwashing soap plus extra virgin olive oil and some water can do wonders for your brushes. Just remember to allow your brushes to dry downward if you have brush guards or sideways with a towel underneath to absorb the water.
9. Highlighter - Using a contouring brush, get some matte white shadow (or if you have a powder in an ivory shade) followed by shimmery pink, gold or silver shadow.  Highlight your nose bridge, above your cheekbones, chin, etc.
10. Exfoliating scrub/firming mask - Make a mixture of brown sugar and water for your lips.  You can also opt to use a clean toothbrush for more friction.  For face, add a touch of liquid soap and spread upward in circular motions.  As for the mask, all you need is a well whisked egg which can be distributed over your face using your fingers or a brush.  Once the egg has dried up, gently rinse off and dry.  Finish off with your usual moisturizer and your skin will be glowing.

Why is this called Cheat Sheet #1? You can expect many more cheat sheets to come!  'Til next time, view the illustration of this set below.

Brown sugar exfoliating scrub

Yup. That, my friends, is concealer

Remember Michelle Phan's brush cleaning tutorial? 

L-R: gel liner and liquid liner

Tinted moisturizer. 2 parts moisturizer and 1 part foundation

L-R: Lip gloss, cheek stain, orange corrector and highlighter

04: Love & Makeup That Lasts

With the wedding month quickly approaching, I felt it was necessary to give a little focus to bridal makeup must-haves while trial makeup has not yet taken place.

Most likely, every bride will have a makeup artist so instead of giving a run-down on how to make use of products/brands, I will just list down very worthwhile items that can be tested out with stylists.  When it comes to bridal makeup, we are of course, speaking of timeless colors as well as long-lasting and waterproof products without SPF (to avoid light bouncing off and whitening in photos) that require minimal retouches.

Eyes

Revlon Colorstay 12 Hour Eyeshadow Starlight Quad

• Revlon ColorStay 12 Hour Eyeshadow - The Starlight quad provides classic, sheer coverage eyeshadow colors that will last from ceremony until reception wrap-up.
• YSL Ombre Solo Lasting Radiance Eyeshadow - I would suggest these highly pigmented shadows for evening brides that want to go for a period look
• L'Oreal Wear Infinite Eyeshadow - The Autumn Leaves quad has a gorgeous mix of neutrals for day brides
• Chanel Stylo Yeux Waterproof Eyeliner - Glides on easily, but won't easily smudge off
• Maybelline Unstoppable Smudge - proof, Waterproof Eyeliner - Another very reliable eyeliner at a friendlier  retail price
• Maybelline Define-A-Lash Volume Waterproof Mascara - Whatever Maybelline states in their product name is often true.
• Max Factor Lash Lift Waterproof Mascara - Coats really well and is completely waterproof yet removes easily with cleanser.
• Chanel Inimitable Waterproof Mascara - Not a fan of falsies? This mascara conditions, curls, lengthens and lasts.  
• Mary Kay Signature Eye Primer - This is really affordable and gives your eyeshadow some serious staying power.
• L'Oreal De-Crease Eyeshadow Base - Prevents creasing and fading.  Perfect for minimizing retouches. 
• Nars Eye Primer - Just a little dab goes a long way.

Chanel Inimitable Waterproof Mascara

Lips

Covergirl Outlast Lipstain

Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Lip Pencils

• Covergirl Outlast Lipstain - Usually, I prefer lipstains over lipsticks for brides.  These marker-looking lipstains come in great shades from nude to plum and definitely last. 
• Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Lip Pencil - These creamy pencils are great for correcting lip shapes as needed.
• Stila Long Wear Liquid Lip Color - Part gloss and part lipstick. Slicks on and won't budge.
• Avon Perfect Wear Extralasting Lipstick - Indelible lip color that gives lips a classic look. 
• MAC & Nars - Do I even need to be specific? The color is always there and always long lasting.

Avon Perfectwear Extra Lasting Lipstick

Face

Dior Forever Extreme Wear Flawless Makeup

JK Jemma Kidd Show Stopper Water-resistant Bronzer

Kryolan Fixier Spray

• Laura Mercier Foundation Primer - Prepares skin for smooth application of foundation and allows it to stay in place
• Urban Decay All Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray - A few spritzes to make the makeup last
• Kryolan Fixier Spray - Another option. This fixier spray is to makeup as super hold hairspray is to hair. 
• MAC Fix + Rose - Can be compared to the Strobe cream. Adds radiance and finishes makeup.  The whole Rose Romance collection is lovely actually.
• MAC Pro Longwear Concealer - Comes in 15 shades so definitely something for everyone. Matte finish and uber staying power.
• Dior Skin Forever Extreme Wear Flawless Makeup - Lightweight, silky coverage but heavyweight stamina. 
• Bobbi Brown Sheer Finish Loose Powder - Ultra light and lasts for hours
• L'Oreal Infallible Long Lasting Creamy Powder Foundation - For brides that don't need full coverage and just need to pat down after concealer
• JK Jemma Kidd Show Stopper Water-Resistant Bronzer - For an endless summer glow.  Brides definitely shouldn't have layers and layers of bronzer 



Urban Decay All Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray

• Lancome Blush Subtil Highlighter - Gentle and long lasting.  This is blushing bride done right 

Lancome Blush Subtil Highlighter

Bridal makeup should last in more ways than one.  It should veer away from trends and instead have a classic look.  It should also not take away from the natural beauty of the bride and rather highlight and emphasize the bride's best features so that she may look like the loveliest version of herself.  Then of course, the makeup itself must be formulated in such a way that it does not have to be applied and reapplied over and over again to avoid slips, smudges or caking.  

For a day when lasting love is celebrated, take the proper measures to ensure lasting makeup too.

<3




Makeup by Monique Jaramillo-Seneres 
Email: moniquejseneres@gmail.com
Cell: 0917-804-9947

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