Tracez of my Lipstick.....

OUT OF HIDING! Check me out =) Youtube!

2010-02-22T06:08:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday Ladies! Its a gorgeous wintery wonderland outside and i am in a great mood. I have missed you all so much!!!

It seems much easier to join the youtube community to communicate with everyone...sooooo I have a channel! I'm still jazzin' it up and I have only uploaded a haul video thus far, but I am really excited and I hope you all check me out :)
I plan on recording a new video tonight so since im new to this, gimme some suggestions in the comments =)

I am kinda uncomfortable being on camera and i plan on working on editing later but for now, its kinda ...too the point lol. I'll work on the fancy stuff later =)

Kisses

~Alyssia

Twitterbug!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-03-27T11:37:00.001-07:00

follow me on twitter..

www.twitter.com/eclectikDream

Coming Soon

2009-02-26T13:23:00.000-08:00

I have tons of ish on my mind, so I'm going to be starting a new blog soon...it'll be a lot more personal and probably a tad more random lol. Oh, and I'll definitely be keeping this one up!

I'll post a link when it's up and running and those of you who'd like to follow that one are more than welcome!

I'm back! Quick Post....

2009-02-25T10:22:00.001-08:00

Hey Ya'll! Long time no blog, right? Yes I know! I still haven't got my computer issues squared away, so until I do I'll just keep commenting and posting when I can :-/

So..... Am I the ONLY one NOT excited about this?

Ol' girl looks a hot, sticky mess...but too each his/her own, I guess! I think I'll have to pass on this collection!!!!! There are product photos over at Temptalia... the only thing that appeals to me in the least are the shadesticks.. simply because I don't own any.

In other news, I have gone MAC crazy lol. I have spent entirely too much at the MAC counter in my local Macy's...ahhh well, its all for the good, right?! lol. Also, Spring is COMING! Yay! Which means I have been shopping my butt off......spending money that could go towards a bill...but again, its all for the good, right!? At least thats what I keep telling myself LOL. BUT I realize that there is a problem and I will be going on a makeup NO BUY! That's right!!!!! NO MAKEUP PURCHASES!!!! The verdict is out on how long I'll do this, but I definitely will need help and motivation! (((notice I didn't say all shopping...just makeup, as I realize I spend more on makeup than anything else)))

I'll try taking pictures of my latest hauls and I HAVE to review my new Studio Sculpt Foundation and Concealer...love this stuff!

Edit! I HAVE to share the shoes my hunii.dew bought me for Valentine's Day, I fell in love with them as soon as I saw them in the store, and my baby remembered how much I loved them =)

Aren't they GORGEOUS!? I love these shoes, can't wait til' the snow melts!!!!

That's all for now! I'll post again as SOON as I can lovlies!

I Know, I Know!!!

2009-02-05T09:43:00.000-08:00

Hey Ladies,

I know I promised to keep up with my blog, and I promise I have plenty of stuff to share incl. more makeup hauls and CLOTHES!!!! But my laptop has a virus!!!!!!!!!!! :::oh nO!::::

I'm getting it fixed, and I will be back to regular posting shortly, for the time being...I'll review a couple of items I've recently purchased!

Stay tuned!!! ;)

HAUL!!!!!!! ((pic heavy))

2009-01-16T10:55:00.001-08:00

Happy Friday!!!

Okay so I finally received my package from MAC which included my Dame Edna stuff...and I must say that I am extremely happy with the items that I ordered =)

I am still in love with the purple packaging! I ordered: The Wisterio trio, Gladiola l/s, & Hot Frost l/g.

SWATCHES!!!

I can not WAIT to wear Gladiola(right) and Hot Frost(left)! When I ordered it, I honestly didn't think that it would fit my skin tone, but it does and I am ecstatic! I never wear bright lip color, so I'll do a FOTD with these reaalllyy soon!

NEXT UP!! Walgreens had a crazy clearance sale going on and I snatched up quite a few things and of course I had to share em' with ya'll!!! (YES ''ya'll'' lol)

I got: (2) Revlon lip palettes in Caramelt & RSV Pink, (3) Covergirl Trueshines in Coral Shine, Watermelon Shine, & Fire Shine, A Revlon shadow/liner duo in Set the Nude, Revlon blush in Hushed Blush (to be used as a highlight), Milani Sunset (bronzer/ blush) duo in Sunset Beach, & 3 sets of Wet N Wild lashes in Vivacious and Flirtatious (not pictured).

Top to bottom: Fire shine, Watermelon Shine, & Coral Shine. All of the CG Trueshines are pretty sheer but have buildable coverage. I'm trying to expand my lipstick collection and I'm very happy with these =)

This is the liner/shadow duo. The frosty beige color seems like it may be a good brow highlight. I'll have to try to liner, not sure how its "marble-ly goodness" will work on the lashline lol.

The Milani bronzer is good for this time of year. It seems like everyday I wake up a little paler than the day before so anything that adds a little bit of warmth definitely helps!

The revlon blush is pretty light, definitely couldn't be used for anything other than a highlight (on me anyway), but I couldn't beat getting an $11 blush for $2!!!

FINALLY!!! I got a few misc. items that I had been eyeing for a while and/or needed to replenish.

I had to get a new crystal nail file b/c I gave my Mommy the last one =) I also purchased Sally Hansen Diamond Shine base coat/top coat (Nail Post coming soon!!). I got one of the new Revlon Matte eyeshadows in Lushious Lime( i THINK thats the name...I could be wrong lol I'm @ work!!), Nivea creme for my purse, and FINALLY got the Loew Cornell brushes! They are supposedly dupes for the Mac shader brushes. I am very happy with them they are extremely soft and I can't wait to use them. Look for the purple handle!!!

Here's a quick swatch of the Revlon e/s.. This is the best picture I could get..the color was hard to capture

Okay THAT IS IT!!! Sorry for the long post but I wanted to show ya'll all of the stuff I've got in the last couple of days!!!!

Have a great Weekend!!!!!!!

Gotta Have Em....

2009-01-12T13:48:00.000-08:00

I am really feeling these....

I have always loved heels, but I used to be self-conscious b/c I'm kinda tall, but NOW....u can't tell me nuthin! I will be struttin in these asap.

Click here to buy =)

Purple Passion....

2009-01-08T11:37:00.000-08:00

Hey Ladies =)

First off I hope that you girls (and guys?) are taking/have taken advantage of MAC's Friends & Fam discount!!!!

I sure did! I ordered 3 things from the Dame Edna collection cuz I llloovvee the purple packaging, I've heard that some people are kinda bummed b/c the packaging has stickers...which DOES in fact suck a bit...but then again nothing lasts forever =) I live for now!!! Okay, not all the time but Mac got me with this one lol.

So I ordered: The Wisteria Trio, Gladiola l/s, & Hot Frost l/g...I really wanted a nice bright lip stick because I usually stray away from anything with color, but I want to try somethin new for 09! lol...So HOPEFULLY I'll have enough guts to rock Gladiola...if not it's always a nice color to have in my kit =)

Check out Ren Ren's tutorial using the Wisteria Trio here

Oh and I'm definitely on a roll! I even have a FOTD to share =) Yay me!!!!

What I used:
Eyes: Loreal Decrease(waste!), ?Lavender/Lilac? NYX Ultra Pearl Mania Loose e/s (lid), Mac Fig. 1 (crease, lower lashline), Mac Carbon (outer V, slightly blended into crease), Mac Ricepaper (brow highlight), Revlon Colorstay Liquid Line, CG Perfect Blend black Eye Pencil, CG Lash Blast
Brows: Mac Espresso, NC45 Studio Finish Concealer

Face: NC45 Studio Finish Concealer, NYX Concealer in a Jar-yellow, MAC Select SPF 15 Finish Foundation NC44, Maybelline Mineral Power in Translucent(to set)
Cheeks: Bonnebell Powder Bronzer in Golden Tan, Revlon Blush in Pinking of You

Lips: Milani Lip Pencil in Satin Rose, Milani l/s in Dolce Vita, Avon l/g in Peony Pink

I forgot to use my Mineralize Skinfinish....and I am thinking of changing foundations....I wanna try Studio Fix Fluid and/or MUFE HD Foundation...not feeling my current one anymore...makes me look weird lol And just a brief rant...L'Oreal Decrease sucks..for me anyway...After it's gone I'm either gonna try Too Faced Shadow Insurance or UDPP....might as well spend an extra $10...my eyeshadow needs to stay put!

But anyways....

I hope you all enjoyed!!!!

*alyssia* =.)

Finally...

2009-01-06T19:07:00.000-08:00

As i said before I made a video, edited the video using Windows Movie Maker and could not figure out how to convert the file..things like this usually come easy, but I guess I'll have to play around with it a bit more!! My video included my most recent mac haul...I didn't take pics and all that "jazz" b/c I plan on figuring out how to convert it! I.will.not.give.up

Just to fill ya'll in....

Everything has been going great lately...I have decided that Blogger is definitely the business! Without it I wouldn't have connected with my blog "fam" and I wouldn't have been able to meet Ms. Brandi, an UBER talented MUA in my area (Which is very hard to find) As most of you know, I live in Detroit....the fashion/makeup industry is little to none here, so finding a mentor to actually teach you the ropes is highly unlikely. (check out some of her work here and check out her blog X-Quisite Looks) I will be her assistant, helping out with photo shoots, weddings, runway shows and whatever else may come up. I am soooo excited and I'll be sure to take plenty of pics and keep you all filled in.

For whatever reason, I've been doing lots of makeup (on myself and a couple others) but have been slacking on my picture taking!!! So all I have to leave you with is a picture of me on NYE.

I didn't do anything to dramatic because my outfit didn't scream Happy New Year. So I rocked a pale gold(finally got some use outta one of my NYX loose pearl mania shadows!) and a slightly smoke out gray e/s...my left eyebrow looks really odd now that I look at this, but on 12/31/08...I was happy with it LOL

I'm sorry it took me sooo long to update this, I feel so bad and I've missed blogging so much! But...I guess that's what happens when you STILL don't have internet @ your apartment! Hopefully I'll get the hang of this video thing really soon!!! My next post will definitely be more interesting ladies! Sry!

My one & only....

2009-01-02T08:40:00.000-08:00

New Years Resolution:

**I resolve to update my blog on the REGULAR!

New post coming tomorrow.

Happy New Year Lovlies =.)

edit: Okay sooo. I tried uploading a video to blogger AND youtube but it didnt work out. Anyone who is good with that stuff PLLLEEAASSSEE help!

Meow.....

2008-11-21T10:04:00.001-08:00

How excited are we for this?????????????????

Hello Kitty meets Mac--Available on maccosmetics.com Feb. 10, and in stores Feb. 12.

I guess I should start saving now, or should I put Macy's gift cards on my X-mas list!?!

120-Palette from Beauties-Factory

2008-11-06T08:21:00.000-08:00

Hey Ladies....Okay I need some advice...I have been contemplating purchasing this palette for about two weeks, but I am STILL unsure....Here's a quick swatch video from Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IA-l1GfYJxs

There are some really great colors and it's $30.99 w/ Free Shipping over at Beauties-Factory. I think it may be similar to the Coastal Scents palette...

What do you all think??? Worth $31 or no...Check the video and tell me what u think!

My Dream. Our Dream. His Dream. Her Dream...

2008-11-05T08:37:00.000-08:00

Has become reality........

The day after, and I am still in shock. Yes We DID!!!

Pic Courtesy of: YBF

You Still Have Time!!! Let's Make History!!! 11.4.08

2008-11-04T11:20:00.000-08:00

It just LOOKS right. I got this in an email this morning...the day isn't over...make this a REALITY. VOTE for the CHANGE we NEED!!!!!!! OBAMA 08!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yes.We.Can!!!!!!!

I'm Back

2008-11-02T15:41:00.000-08:00

Okay...SO! My life is finally SOMEWHAT back to normal.... And I have a couple of pics to share with my lovely ladies! I recently did makeup for my besties little sister and her cousin for their Homecoming...

Both girls wanted something really simple for Homecoming...they decided they'd go all out for prom. I did brows for both girls and used to same eye shadows for both girls(excluding the brow highlight) Off the top of my head I *think* I used Mac espresso in the crease, NYX Golden (which is really more of a bronzey color, and NYX Highlight which is a beige highlight color..hence the name ((duh)) lol; I also used a color similar to Mac's Satin Taupe but I am not sure of the brand or the exact name! I know, I know... I should have written all of this down or took a pic...I'm slackin!

Excuse her kool-aid grin...I couldn't get her to "smile with her eyes" for the life of me. At least I know she was happy with her makeup Lol....She had Mac Star Nova Lustreglass on her lips.

I was really happy with this look...I used the same shadows, but she didn't want any liner on the top. So I used a ton of mascara and lined her lower lashline with the royal blue shadow from the Covergirl Tropical Fusion Quad. She LOVED her makeup and wore Mac Nymphette Lipglass.

And just CUZ here's a recent EOTD I wore....Dunno why I didn't take any full face shots!

I'm so happy to be back and blogging, and hopefully before Christmas I'll make some changes around here!!!!!

I'll Be Back!

2008-10-16T09:22:00.000-07:00

Hey Ladies,

I have plenty to post, but life has been...crazy to say the least! I am in the process of moving into a new place so I've been really busy and have had limited access to the internet. I'll be back to posting on the regular in about a week or so! I'll still be commenting on your blogs! Wait for me!!!!!!!!!! lol

QUICK FOTD

2008-09-13T15:09:00.001-07:00

Hey Ladies,

Just wanted to share a quick FOTD with ya'll! I loved it mostly because my polish seemed to be a perfect match! Have a wonderful weekend, and don't go broke paying for gas due to Hurricane Ike!!!

UPCOMING POSTS: More m/u practice and my recent hauls!

Practice Makes Perfect....

2008-09-05T07:15:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday ladies!

I recently took a short vacay and was able to visit some of my family. Perfect opportunity to practice my makeup skills, right?!

Here at home, I am not able to practice as often as I would like...I can do my makeup whenever I feel like it...but the real test is being able to work with different skin tones, skin textures, brows, etc. So I applied m/u to my older cousin, and my younger cousin. Keep in mind, that I am not saying that I did the best job.....this was just for practice. For one! I haven't worked with darker skin before..everyone I've worked with always seems to be my complexion..Yeah I know, sad but TRUE! So here we go......I'll start with the worst first (lol) CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM WELCOME

This is my older cousin, Val. All I really did with her was her brows, shadow, and lips. She had her own foundation and concealer. After seeing the pics, I see areas that could have been blended a little better...Also, I think that her brow highlight is a little too light for her skin tone. I am using my own PERSONAL collection, so many of the shadows fit my complexion. I don't think that it's a horrible job, but it could have been better!

Next up is my lil' cuzzo Bri :)

I thought her makeup came out pretty good. She didn't need any foundation OR concealer so all I used was a little pressed powder to even her out. She didn't want anything dramatic, just something natural with a bit of a "kick". And YES those are her lashes...lol :::jealous!:::: I didn't even have to curl them!

As I said, I'd love for my fellow beauty bloggers to give me some tips and tricks! I have a friend that is an up and coming fashion designer, and was asked to do makeup for her show...so I'm trying to get my stuff together in the next couple of months!

I'll be asking for product reccomendations among a million other things, so be prepared ladies! Also, I'm trying to keep up with my post and soon I'll have everything on a fixed schedule. I know its so much easier to keep up when you know when to expect a new post. Between classes, work, and my boyfriend...I'm pulling my hair out!

But hey....Life is good right now. I finally feel everything is falling into place!

Have a fabulous weekend!!!!!!

Fashion Week Comes to Detroit

2008-08-27T06:38:00.001-07:00

Laaaddiieess! I have big news :) (big to me). I have been chosen as the Volunteer Coordinator for Detroit Fashion Week.

I was able to land the position by emailing the leading staff of the production and luckily, this job became available! Initially, I was only interested in being a volunteer....I wanted a piece of the action, and I wanted to share my experience with you all!! I can't express how ecstatic I am! This is a great way to get my foot in the door! I'll be able to mix and mingle with local designers from Detroit, some from Chicago, and a couple from NYC. >>>LUCKY<<<>

I realize that Detroit never crosses your mind when you think 'Fashion'. In fact, most think that they will be a.) shot dead upon crossing city limits, b.) robbed upon crossing city limits, or c.) BOTH (none of which is true). BUT one thing I can say is that my people are most definitely fashionable....swaggerific to say the least. lol. You've probably heard of the city referred to as the Gator Capital, but we have so much more to offer....we have some great shopping districts, malls, and boutiques. People sleep on 'The D', but all we can do is show...talk is cheap!!!!

_duece, deuce ladies!!!!

NOTD

2008-08-20T06:54:00.000-07:00

Here is my current NOTD, Orly Charged Up

Excuse my *shorter than normal* nubs...I broke about 3 nails, so I had to cut them all! =( I don't like long nails, but these are a lil too short for my liking. But HEY...they will grow back!

And here's my new phone.....the Samsung Instinct from Sprint....comparable to the i-phone. My boyfriend has the i-phone and I actually like my phone a little better, but this may be because he has the first model, and not the newer one. They have a lot of the same features and applications. I was quite happy when Sprint introduced a touch screen phone...that way I didn't have to end my contract 1 1/2 year early! hehe.......

Okay I am *officially* done posting for today! Lol. *dueces*

Haul

2008-08-20T06:10:00.000-07:00

Hey Ladies,

I know I'm a little late on this post, but between my Cedar Point (amusement park) trip and dealing with the Financial Aid office for school I have been so out of it. But I have plenty of pics from my latest hauls to share with you lovely ladies =) It's not much but I scored some pretty great stuff....for little to nothing. Let's take a closer look!

I absolutely love the dress! I got it at H&M...surprisingly I wasn't sold just looking at it on the hanger, but when I tried it on I had to have it! H&M's clothing fits me really well...in their store I'm a PERFECT size 6. I am one that embraces my curves and believe me, this dress hugs every curve... yet still classy and elegant. It's not *super* dressy...I believe it can be dressed up or down. I plan on wearing it to a dinner cruise with my Mom and Dad paired with a black wide belt & black patent peep toe mary janes. I purchased the jeans from 4ever 21 and they also fit really well. I needed a new pair of dark denim jeans to wear with pumps, and these fit the bill perfectly. Who can't be happy about spending less than $50 on a quality dress and a nice pair of jeans??

This lil' kit is so convinient! I'm constantly breaking, chipping, or slamming a nail in a file drawer at work so sometimes, I need a quick fix. It was only $1 at Meijer...can't beat it! (I had to add my own crystal nail file to the kit)

I really do not remember the name of this Revlon blush, and since I'm blogging from work I can't grab it (I'll edit later) But I DO know that it was only $2.25 on clearance and was orginally $10+. Can we say STEAL?!

I was also able to get this NYX trio on sale (50% off) at my local Rite Aid...In the end I think I only paid about $3 for it...give a few cents.

I also picked up Orly Charged Up...I think its a great transitional purple from Summer to Fall...I was surprised to see that it was released with a few of their neons because well.....It's not really a neon :-/ But still beautiful

And look at this beauty! OMG...look at the holographic glitter......I was speechless when I found this...I saw sooo many ladies rocking it over at the Nail Board on Makeup Alley and loved it...so imagine my delight when I found this at my local Ulta.

Look at that! Just gorgeous! This is definitely not your average black polish. You can achieve bottle color with two coats, but I'm a three coater myself!

That's about all I've purchased lately...I'm on a huge low buy after purchasing a new phone PLUS I have to buy books for the upcoming semester! OH! And I know I still haven't posted my minimal makeup look, but believe it or not I am JUST now getting that breakout I mentioned under control. I haven't been wearing anything but mascara and carmex, but now that it's nearly clear...I'll work on that post! Have a great day ladies!!!!

QUICK NOTD

2008-08-14T09:23:00.001-07:00

Hey Ladies,

One more post for the day....Here's a quick NOTD. It's Covergirl Boundless Color in Candy Corn. It's a really pretty summer color...wish I would have taken more pics!

We Got to Do Better!

2008-08-14T08:36:00.000-07:00

I told yall that my posts would be all over the place...I just have so many things on my mind and I can't help but to share!

But onto the hot mess that is Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick.....if you're one that keeps up with current events and news I'm sure that you've heard of the infamous "Sex & Text Scandal" surrounding Detroit Mayor, Kwame Kilpatrick.

As a resident of the Metro Detroit area, you can not turn on the television without being bombarded by the latest, breaking news in the Kilpatrick trial. Frankly, I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired of hearing about him. He either needs to a.) be put out of office or b.) be a man and step down. While he has brought many jobs, businesses, and major events to the city...he must realize that (allegedly) inviting strippers to the Mayor's mansion and lying under oath will overshadow anything positive that he has done for the city of Detroit. Let's not be naive and pretend that he hasn't been under the microscope since he was elected years ago. He wasn't "supposed" to get that position in the first place. We got to do better!

If you are unfamiliar with the case/scandal Click here for a timeline leading up to the trial against the Mayor.

pics courtesy of CNN and ScurvOriginalz

Oh Em Gee (lol)

2008-08-13T13:50:00.000-07:00

Just a really quick post.....I just had to share.....how fly are these shoes!?!???!!!!! must.put.away.credit.card! lol. They would be a great transition from summer to fall....the color is just ..... too fab. Can't wait for fall!

Eff that....I'm gettin em! Pics soon! lol

And my minimal makeup post is coming...I just got hit with a CRAZY breakout.....damned PMS! Ugh...................

It's Official.....

2008-08-05T17:59:00.000-07:00

I'm back and I have missed blogging so much. Its so nice to have people who understand my obsession with all things beauty and fashion! I'm tired of getting the side eye everytime someone asks exactly how many times I polish my nails within a week...I mean so what! I get bored easily and with 100+ bottles of polish who has time to keep one color on for an entire week......yeah not so much! That's like....an eternity! Look at the nail polish over flow.......I need another storage method cuz this right here.....aint gettin it!

To mark this historic day (((because you should mark it on your calendar: Alyssia is BACK!))) I bought my very first Essie nail polish thanks to my girl Brit over at Clumps of Mascara. She's such a frickin enabler! Lol, i kid! But anyways i purchased Body Language which is a muted gray creme...hard to describe...almost reminds me of a mushroom....anyways check the swatch! It's very unique! Almost fugly...but for some reason I love it! Oh and I most def recommend that you get a few Essie polishes in your collection...they apply like butter!

Ya'll have to excuse me...I know this isn't the greatest post! But I'm gettin back into the swing of things....slowly but surely!!

Upcoming post: Minimal makeup

Guess who's Back!!

2008-08-04T10:11:00.000-07:00

I know, I was gone for quite some time but I am most defenitely back. The only difference will be that I will focus on all aspects of things I enjoy....Tracez will now include posts regarding life, beauty, skin care, nail care, hair care, and fashion.

Be on the lookout, cuz I'm back!

emm-eye-ay (still)

2008-01-11T10:37:00.000-08:00

Hey Ya'll!

I know, I know still haven't posted in a ridiculously long time. I have so many things to post about, but no internet connection at my apt. yet! BUT new posts are defenitely coming soon...

UPCOMING POSTS:
*beauty tips [can you believe it?!]
*my updated skin care regiman
*hauls
*more on spring trends [beauty and fashion]
*rants

There has been so much going on in my life [lol] expect my next post to be a very long one!

--MIA--

2007-12-14T19:33:00.000-08:00

Hey ladies,

I know I have been missin' in action for the last few days, but I've been packing and getting ready for my big move tomorrow (small move actually, considering I don't have living room furniture yet lol) But I will be back to posting on the regular next week!

I miss you guys and I'll be back to commentin and posting soon!

Okay one more post...

2007-12-05T12:18:00.000-08:00

Like I said I love fashion...so as I sit at my desk (supposed to be doing work)

I found a cute little collage to help you shop for spring (it'll be here before you know) it shows all of the upcoming trends and can serve as a shopping guide!

Pic courtesy of Girlawhirl

If you can't make out the words...The trends are as follows: belts, high waisted, wide led pants, prints and patterns, greys and (of course) bright colors, layers, oversized flowers, and a modern twist on your traditional black and white outfit. I'm lovin it so far! [[[click to enlarge photo]]]

FREE SHIPPING....

2007-12-05T11:06:00.001-08:00

Over at MAC.....

Don't u just love the holidays? Free shipping on all purchases from Dec. 2 til the 15th!

YYAAYYY

EDIT:: For those who do not know, my first love is fashion...I absolutely love clothes and shopping (makeup has just taken over lately lol) but anyways...I've been spending all my money on makeup and haven't had the chance to shop, but I just stopped by the Wet Seal site and they have free shipping too!!!!! Oh and I promise I'm gonna post tonight! ::slippin on my pimpin::

~*alyssia*~

STYLISTICS update

2007-12-01T22:00:00.000-08:00

Hey yall...

Okay... so yesterday I went to the Mac store at the mall, and SURPRISINGLY I was disappointed in the Stylistics collection. I still love the packaging, but not enough to spend more money on items I can't see myself reaching for too often. I swabbed the Sheerspark Powders and the lipglass [[which is what i was initially interested in]], but I just wasn't wowed enough to dish out the money for items I seriously doubt I'd reach for too often. HOWEVER...I did purchase a couple of things..including my very FIRST Mac brush [[[yay!!!]]]. I'll post Monday w/ my haul!

Latest Haul...and Sum Half-Assed FOTD's

2007-11-29T13:51:00.000-08:00

Hey yall...

Like everyone else out there, I know I'm supposed to be buyin stuff for my fam and friends BUT I can't help myself. I didn't over do it though, I think I've been pretty good about sticking to drugstore brands instead of splurging on h/e cosmetics! I seriously only own 4 Mac e/s...and thats including this haul. From time to time, I purchase my foundation or mascara from Mac but they usually only squeeze that outta me when I let the MA do my m/u!

But anyways...here goes the haul I purchased the following : Mac e/s in Beauty Marked and Trax (recommended by the MA), NYX Lip Gloss with Mega Shine in Clear net, Mac Lipglass in Viva Glam VI, NYX Ultra Pearl Mania Loose shadows in Lime Pearl and Baby Blue pearl, Milani e/s(cant remember the color), WnW Mega Glow Illuminating Powder in Bora Bora, Cover Girl Buffer Brush, Johnson's Baby Oil Gel, & Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque.

NOW...I absolutely love my Mac eyeshadows. They are so pretty together! But I refuse to do an FOTD using them until I get a new digi cam(I'll tell you about that later). The MA told me that they were her fav combos right now and I thought they were sooo pretty together! I had to have them...against my better judgement! Originally I was looking for another lipglass...just something with a LITTLE less sheer and I love the Viva Glam VI....it's just..perfect for my lips! The milani e/s is also really pretty...I think I'd use it as a highlighter whenever I do pink e/s or a pink and purple combo. The NYX ultra pearl shadows are decent. I really like the Baby Blue pearl, but the Lime pearl is a little more shimmery than I was hoping for (I'll probably just layer it with an e/s that's a little more matte...like Milani Limbo Lime). The Wnw powder is pretty good too...I just use it on the hollows of my cheeks and on my temples and then I top it off with whatever blush I'm going to se for the day. {keep in mind, i bought this stuff about a week ago so I've had a chance to play with everything!} And now for the star of the bunch...the CG Buffer Brush....it is very soft and I haven't had any shedding what-so-ever. I use it for my mineral m/u and I really like the effect it gives. If you remember, I bought a really harsh kabuki brush and I hated it, but this is amazing....I look for a reason to use it everyday! The baby oil gel also works wonders. I use it about 2 times a week. After I shower (while I am still wet) I apply the gel liberally and then I pat myself dry..thats it! My skin does not feel greasy...the product is absorbed very well and when I wake up the next morning I still feel moisturized!! I don't have to apply lotion to anything but my hands. I have yet to use to Mint Julep masque but it got pretty decent reviews over at Makeup Alley so I'm hoping it will serve its purpose (minimize my pores!) when I try it! [I'll let you guys know!]

And Finally....my FOTD's. I have come to conclusion that I have a wack camera! [lol]. I have done everything possible to make my pics come out looking decent, but they never pick up the details or show how vibrant the shadow is. So I'm hoping Santa will bring me a better digi cam for X-mas this year!!!!

The first pic is just showing my m/u coverage. Many of you guys told me to try using a good concealer and layer it with a powder. So I used WnW coverall stick in Medium over any blemishes or scars I had and then I applied my Mac Studio Stick Foundation in NC45 over the same marks/blemishes with my concealer brush...then I added a sheer layer of my Everyday minerals...I like the coverage it gave and I didn't feel like I had a ton of makeup on my face...how do you think it came out??

Pay no attention to the look on my face....I'm a goofball!!?!? What can I say?!!??! [lol]

In this FOTD I just played around with some bright colors (eventhough they don't look as bright in my pics) I used the following:

FACE Coverall stick, Mac Studio Stick Foundation, Everday Minerals, Wnw Bora Bora, Covergirl Iced Plum blush

EYES Ultra Pearl Mania Loose e/s in Lime Pearl and Lilac Pearl, Milani e/s in Shock and Limbo Lime, frosty peachy e/s for highlight(brand/color unknown), Rimmel Professional Eyebrow Pencil

LIPS Mac Lipglass in Phosphorelle, Milani L/s in Dolce Vita

**They are HORRIBLE PICS and the angles are weird, but I had to pick the few that showed the colors.

Sorry for such a long post, but...it was necessary! [lol]

Tell me what you guys think!!! =)

~*Alyssia*~

Stranger?!

2007-11-27T13:23:00.000-08:00

I know, i know....long time no post! But I was inspired when I visited the Mac site and the Stylistics collection is out! yay! [[[[or nay for me??]]]

I want a COUPLE of things from this collection, but then again I still want a 187! I was thinking of purchasing one of the holiday brush sets (the 4 face brushes), but I don't need the foundation brush or the concealer brush...hmm...so many choices...not enough money..and an addiction that is digging a hole in my pockets!

But anyways... back to Stylistics! I am luvin Hyper Chic Lipglass " a neutral caramel brown"...i think it would look luvlee on my lips!

And the Sheerspark pressed powder...I'm not quite sure which shade would compliment me but I'm in love already! I will defenitely be at my local Mac counter first thing Friday morning.

Originally I decided that I wasn't gonna buy anything, but I can NOT pass this up! The packaging is BEAUTIFUL and I am in love with some of the colors...I promise to walk out with only 2 items! I have an apartment to furnish! [lol]

FOTD's coming tonight! :)

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2007-11-21T11:52:00.000-08:00

Hello All,

Just wanted to say that I hope you all enjoy your Thanksgiving tomorrow. Eat plenty of turkey, ham, and stuffing (or DRESSING mmhmmm) ALSO, I got some more great buys....I'll update Friday!!

Yeah...I bought it too...

2007-11-20T13:17:00.001-08:00

Okay, so I'm kind of a follower..I kept hearing so many rave reviews about this foundation...I HAD to have it and of course...i HAVE to add my 2 cents about Covergirl Queen Collection Natural Hue Foundation! I absolutely love it! I think I'll pass on using it everyday, but that's only because I don't want to turn into one of those "gotta have foundation on EVERYDAY to feel complete" type people. The coverage is great...On the right side of my face I have a few acne scars that I'm trying to lighten up and even without concealer this foundation almost covered them completely. What i like most is that eventhough it gives you nearly full coverage, it's still very light and doesn't make you feel as if you might break into a sweat at any given moment. Oh...and I love the color of the compact...only because my new fav color is purple though [lol]

All my brown girls should defenitely try this out! I bought it at Walgreens for $8.99, but I purchased 2 shades because I wasn't sure which one would work best. As I stated in my previous entry I got Amber Glow and Rich Sand, but I will keep both.

This gets *****5 stars***** in my book!

Green And Blue

2007-11-19T15:46:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone...here's another FOTD

I didn't take the time to list everything I used cuz I'm kinda in a rush today.
I went out and bought Covergirl Queen Collection in 2 shades (rich sand and amber glow)...the one used in my FOTD is a little too light to use all over but I figure I could use the darker along w/ the light for a perfect match =)

I think it came out okay....

annndddd I painted my nails the other day using the Wet N Wild Denim Chrome (a dupe of the Maybelline Acoustic Azure) NOTE: this pic was taken before I cleaned up my polish so it may look a little messy, but I really like the color

Toodles!

MU Artist???

2007-11-19T11:04:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone...

i just had a quick question...

a friend of mine does makeup for weddings, proms, etc.....and she says I need to apply more face makeup for better coverage...she's probably right, but I don't want to get that cakey...pancake look! from the FOTD's I've provided what do you gals think? be honest! more coverage or is it okay as is???????????///

HELP!?!!!!!!

Another Mini-Haul

2007-11-17T12:33:00.000-08:00

Okay....so I think it's been established that I'm a broke college student w. bills [lol] SO, it's a very RARE occurence that I am able to go on shopping sprees at the Mac counter...I have to make do w/ what I've got and what I can afford! =) So here's a look at a few things I picked up yesterday....

NYX e/s trio (white/grrey/black)
Ruby Kisses e/s duo (Fantasy Island)
Milani Lipstick (Pink Chiffon & Dolce Vita)
Studio Tools Bronzer Brush
Sonia Kashuk Blending Brush

I needed the NYX trio b/c I didn't have a matte black shadow...instead of spending 14 bux on ? ONE at Mac...i figured why not get 3 shadows for a fraction of the price =)...Now the Ruby Kisses shadow [lol] has little to barely any pigmentation..it was just cheap at my local beauty supply and I liked the colors..but they don't show up...you get what you pay for, right? Surprisingly I love both brushes...i was able to play with both last night when I did my FOTD (see last entry)....I already knew to expect great things from the Sonia Kashuk brush b/c of all the rave reviews I've read. The Studio Tools brush is realllyyy soft....I'll update after I wash it for the first time to see if it sheds or if the bristles get prickly.

It's good for now, though! ***EDIT***the studio tools bronzer/kabuki brush SUCKS. >:-[ It was soft to touch but too rough on my face...it turned me red! I don't even have any high end makeup brushes but I know enough to know that this won't cut it! to the trash it goes....

Holidays: Take Dos!

2007-11-17T11:58:00.000-08:00

Hey yall!
Okay so I tried another holiday look inspired by a look done over at Temptalia....

EYES
wet n' wild toasted almond cream e/s as base
NYX blonde pearl
NYX copper pearl
NYX ultra pearl mania [used a shimmery red and shimmery gold..not sure of name]
unknown brand...frosty white color under brow bone and in corners of eyes

FACE
everyday minerals
wet n' wild mellow wine blush
covergirl cheekers bronzer

LIPS
milani lip liner
milani pink chiffon l/s
wet n' wild mega plump [name of color unknown, but # 589]

This was another look that came out really pretty, but the flash on my camera kind of washed out the photos. I think this one is a keeper! tell me what ya'll think... =)

****SIDEBAR**** and just a quick question...is it just me or do Milani lipsticks smell REALLY good? [lol]

I actually like the way this came out! Any suggestions would be appreciated! The holiday party is on the 1st so I have to get it right by then!

*duECeS*

Mini Haul & FOTD

2007-11-14T16:43:00.000-08:00

Hey yall...

WELL...today I was stressed the HELL out. First of all, I thought I had found an apartment...actually I did find one. I got approved, paid my app. fee and gave them the check for the sec. deposit. THEN, the lady I dealt with calls me 4 hours later and says that her boss wants me to pay $600 more...by like...FRIDAY. I don't have that kind of money. I'm a student working part time...and my mom is in the middle of relocating (so clearly I wouldn't ask her). I can't pull that type of money outta my ass. So I ultimately ended up sayin' F* it....cuz they had been giving me the run around since the first day I went to see the apartment....they tried to take advantage of me b/c they knew how young I was, but I'm far from stupid. So to hell with them, and now I'm looking for another apartment...and I have to move in within the next month. I just want to pull my hair out! So....I went to Meijer to relieve some stress (for those who don't know, Meijer is just like Target or Wal-Mart, but I think they're only in the Midwest). Anyways.....so this is what I bought :

No biggie...but just some more stuff I don't need [lol]

*Rimmel lipstick in Balistic

*Palmer's Dark Chocolate & Peppermint Lip Butter

*Rimmel Eyebrow Pencil

*Milani e/s in Shock

*Rimmel e/s in Forest

*Wet N' Wild Mega Plump (color ?...doesn't say)

*Wet N' Wild Wild Shine Nail Polish in Denim Chrome

Most of this stuff I didn't REALLY need. BUT I"m sure I'll find a use for it! I got the Rimmel lipstick to experiment w/ the holiday look seen below. My girl Nessa over at Nessasary Makeup [ http://www.nessasarymakeup.com/ ] recommended the Milani e/s as a MAC dupe so I'll have to play around with that. If you're wondering why I got Rimmel, it was cuz it was all on sale for half off. And I LOVE LOVE the Palmer's Lip Butter...it smells soooo good! I got it to use at night and after I exfoliate my lips...I'll tell you guys how it works out! Oh, and I love the color of the nail polish....initially I was looking for Acoustic Azure by Maybelline (shown by Kia over at Yummy 411) but I couldn't find it anywhere...SO the search was on for a dupe and this is what I came up with! I'll polish them tomorrow so you guys can see the color....

Here's the Holiday look......

i TRIED to imitate Nessa's Holiday look from Nessasary Makeup...I don't really like how it came out....it just doesn't scream HAPPY HOLIDAYS, to me! I think it may be because the lipstick was more of a coral color than I thought it would be.....Do ya'll have any suggestions?????

*Dueces*

FOTD

2007-11-12T21:28:00.000-08:00

This is just something I threw together this past weekend....nothin major. I'm getting a LITTLE better at the picture taking thing....I probably shouldve been a little closer, but at least I didn't use my phone this time! [lol]

e/s used:

base- wet n' wild mega glo in sun kissed (texture is like that of Mac paint pot)

NYX blonde pearl

Milani Desert Sun

L'Oreal Hip Brazen Eyeshadow Duo (brown) w/ an unknown shimmery brown on top of that

and bbllleeennndd.

Thats about it....nothin 2 big. Next time I'll probably use some liquid liner and more blush cuz in the end I looked kinda pale ((((damn this yella skin! lol)))) sorry I don't have any full face shots.... I'll get better I promise! Oh and xcuse the brows lol....those hadn't been tamed just yet! lol. My eyebrows do what they want at times....but I cant only blame me! When I was young I used to see my Mom arching her eyebrows in the mirror.....SO of course I had to do it when I was like....FOUR. And I chopped half of each brow off and you can see the results above...they never were quite the same [[LOL]]

Tell me what cha think!

Thanx!

RIP Dr. Donda West

2007-11-11T19:24:00.000-08:00

It hurts my heart to say this....I just read that rapper Kanye West's mother passed away last night. As I am a HUGE fan of Kanye West....I can only hope that he is dealing with this as best as he can. I wouldn't wish a loss like this on my worst enemy[[[i can't imagine what i'd do]]]...I am lost for words b/c in interviews his mother seemed so vibrant and healthy....but I guess things are never as they seem!

Mr. West and his family are in my prayers......

Dry n Ashy!

2007-11-09T10:44:00.001-08:00

Hey!

Okay so I've been having issues w/ my skin lately...not anything too bad. Just a lil' dryness. Right now I'm an avid Pro Activ user....the whole 3 step process is done morning and night. As far as my acne goes, I haven't had any problems but I think that Pro Activ works better day AND night in the warmer months, it's a little too harsh now that it's getting cold. Sooo, I'm looking to change my skin care regimen a little bit. I want to limit my Pro Activ usage to nights only. So as far as the morning goes I don't know! I've done a little research and according to O Magazine's Beauty Editor, Valerie Monroe, I should try a mild non-sudsing cleanser. Because I have combo skin [oily in my t-zone area] I don't think I can do without a toner, but I think I'll limit myself to Witch Hazel b/c it's more gentle than the ProActiv toner, and I've heard nothin but rave reviews about it. The hard part is finding a moisturizer....because I have combo, acne-prone skin I am scared to death to try different moisturizers. It doesnt help that I have sensitive skin and the slightest bit of fragrance will send my skin into a fr!

Do you ladies have any ideas as to what a good moisturizer for me might be?

[see the article about winter skincare here : http://www.oprah.com/beauty/val/val_omag_200710_coldskin.jhtml ]

I'm going to go to http://www.makeupalley.com/ and check out the reviews of a few moisturizers.

Talk Dirty 2 Me Baby!

2007-11-08T20:24:00.000-08:00

Hey!

I decided to give myself a mini mani EVENTHOUGH I broke two nails...I was feeling so UN-pretty w/o nail polish so I did this....

My Mini Mani: clip, shape, buff, cuticle oil followed by Mary Kay Satin Hands Set

I used A Perfect '10' Nail Polish in 'Talk Dirty" that I found at Wal-Mart for like...2 BUX! [[[sTeaL!!]]] but FIRST i used my LA Girls Whitener and Smoother as a base and I ended with my LA Girls Quick Dry Top Coat.

On a side note....I just want to tell you guys how great Mary Kay's Satin Hand set is.....its getting closer to winter time and my hands were feelin' a tad RUFF. First you apply the emollient cream-then the buffing cream-wash it off with the cleanser-use the non-greasy, very absorbent moisturizer and VOILA silky smooVe hands [lol]....This was given to me by my sister and I absolutely love it!

Also PLEASE give me some tips/feedback re: ways to take a good makeup photo. I hate that I see one thing when I put apply my makeup, but you guys see another! I want you guys to see the detail so that I can get some tips on my mu application! Thanks!

~*alyssia*~

FOTD Numba Wun!

2007-11-07T21:52:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness....

I can't believe I actually have a FOTD! [lol]

Of course, its not great...i can't take a decent makeup photo with my digi cam, so I took these with my phone and you can't see all of the detail, but I think you all will get the picture.

It's so weird because I DO NOT do blue eyeshadow...it's so ...80s to me! So, I tried it for the firsttime and I just couldn't wait until tomorrow to post the pics because it [surprisingly] came out pretty. I'm pissed that you guys can't see the detail...I even think I did an -Ok- job blending. Oh yeah Disregard the beret [lol] I love it, but I don't wear it TOO much cuz my boyfriend hates it so much lol. But its pretty KEEWWWAALLL to me!

Okay so here goes nothin!

Okay so you can't see the detail but...o well for the moment right?

AArrrgghh. It irritates me cuz it was Bee-E-A-YOU-tee-Ful...for my skill level anyways!

Naturally I have to have a silly pic! *teehee*

What I used

Cover Girl True Blend Loose Powder w/ Minerals in translucent honey

Loreal True Match liquid Found. in N7

Maybelline Volume Express Mascara

Estee Lauder dual ended e/s & e/l in Double Denim

Wet N' Wild Cream Shadow in Toasted Almond as base

Wet N' Wild Silk Finish Blush in Mellow Wine (very Little)

Unknown eye shadow...frosty white color used as highlight

Jordana e/l in Turquoise

Jesse's Girl Eye Dush (like a pigment) in a deep greenish/blue color

Wild & Crazy e/s in Bahama Water

I'm proud of myself! yyayy! lol

Til' my next post....Kisses!

i AiNt Gettin my Nailz Did!!! [lol]

2007-11-07T18:07:00.000-08:00

I refuse to continue to go to the salon and get acrylics anymore! I used to be a faithful "every two-weeker"...but now- I am all on my own. I have been giving myself a manicure AND pedicure! And if you ask me, I've gotten damn good at it!

I can't go to my local beauty supply without grabbing a new bottle. Cheap or expensive --- mostly cheap though! To me, all nail polish is the same. If you have decent technique you will always come out with nice nails. Also, it is VERY important to use a base coat to keep from yellowing your nail bed.

Above, you can see all the base coats & top coats that I use. For the most part, I use the L.A. Girls Whitener and Smoother as my base coat. It truly makes a difference in the smoothness of your nail polish application, although I've purchased other base coats I'll only use this one b/c I love it SOOOO much. You can purchase this at your local beauty supply or http://www.cherryculture.com/ . I also luv, luv, luv the L.A. Girls Quick Dry Top Coat. It REALLY dries fast and if I use this a couple days after my initial application my nails will last at least 6 days [which is great for me considering I do lots of filing and typing at work]. All of the above items are great, but for me the L.A. Girls items are Holy Grail worthy and a steal at only $1.99 per bottle!

I have quite a few bottles of nail polish as well. I like to break them down into categories. I have my Neutrals and light pinks {which I love the most}, when I'm feelin a lil sassy I have my reds and dark oranges. On the other hand, I have my dark colors (mostly blacks, browns, and purples) when I'm feelin a lil....myStErIoUs!!

Reds, Oranges

Neutrals, Pinks

Blacks, Maroons, Purples

For the most part I stick to either the neutrals or the darker colors. I love the way these colors look on my nails. For right now, I am sporting clear polish because I broke two of my nails BUT in the future each time I do my nails I will be providing pictures so you guys can see the color payoff. Also, if anyone wants to know what a certain color is, or would like to see a swatch email me and I will provide you with whatever your little heart desires :)

Tomorrow I'll show my makeup collection!!!

Stay Tuned!

Dead Tired....

2007-11-07T11:53:00.000-08:00

For some reason I am just deathly tired today! As much as I love makeup can you believe I didn't put a thing on today!? Nothing at all except my carmex!

Okay....Am I the only one addicted to these little tubes of crack we call carmex? Oh my goodness! I can't go without it! I put it on before bed, and in between lip gloss touch ups....so many times during the day I can't count!

It's just so amazing to me how soft my lips feel with carmex. I've tried to ween myself off of this stuff time and time again, but it doesn't work. When I exfoliate my lips (gently brush them with my toothbrush) I pile this stuff on and my lips are SO soft when I wake up. It's pretty great! I know you're probably thinking I'm crazy but seriously its like I have OCD or something. I have to have it [lol].

Okay enuff of that.....when I get off work I'll be uploading some pics of the stuff I own that thsoe close to me call junk!

Stay tuned! :)

WoW...Its Official!

2007-11-06T20:06:00.001-08:00

Okay..So I've wanted to start a blog for...4ever, but was to damned lazy to do it!
I finally took the time to start my blog....
To all my readers, if any [lol], this blog will highlight ALMOST everyday of my life...unless {again} I'm too lazy to post which I doubt I'll forget b/c I'll be using this an outlet for stress!

So as I said....I'm a fashion student (marketing and management NOT design) so naTuraLLy I LUV shopping, but in the last couple of months I've found myself interested in all phases of beauty! Mostly nail polish and makeup though. I stopped wearing acrylics and I've been determined to keep my nails manicured nicely. My makeup skills are okay! I still have a lot to learn and I would greatly appreciate all your tips, tricks, and pointers!

I don't descriminate! I do lots of drugstore brands b/c they can be just as great as the h/e products. I'll be reviewing products, introducing FOTD's [when I learn how to take a good makeup photo], VENTING [lol], I will also be giving you guys some of the tips and tricks I've learned along the way, and as for the rest....we'll cross that bridge when we get to it!