Friday, June 29, 2012

YouTube Channel

Hi guys,

I want to let you all know that I've started a YouTube channel called the MakDiaries where I will be posting a mixture of videos from makeup tutorials, product reviews, monthly favorites, outfit of the day posts and sharing a new and exciting chapter of my life -my traveling adventures in England- with you all! I would love it if you would subscribe to my channel. The videos posted currently are with my low-quality equipment but I've just gotten hold of a videocamera and some lighting so I can't wait to debut the new look on the new channel!

The link to the channel is: http://www.youtube.com/user/MakDiaries?feature=mhee

Love,
M

Monday, June 25, 2012

MakePeaceMonday: 6 Week Challenge- Sleep

Hi guys,

I just want to update you on the week since I posted my intro video for the Make Peace Monday Six Weeks to Your Best You Challenge.  This past week I have tried to be more aware of my habits and make a conscious effort to choose healthier options and to take better care of myself. I focused overall on all six changes shown in the video and realized that it really has to start with sleep.  I have noticed in the past two years I have really let sleep as a priority fall to the wayside.  Actually, sleeping has never been a priority for me and while I've been in college I've really noticed the negative effects of getting inadequate amounts of rest. 

Here's the thing, leading a healthy lifestyle takes a lot of focus, patience, energy, and will power.  To be prepared for the difficulties of changing your lifestyle you need to be well rested.  Not getting enough sleep will sabotage your efforts because your body will crave foods that give instant energy like sugar and carbs which will make it more difficult to eat healthily.  Also, you will not have the energy or willpower after a long day or bright and early in the morning before work to do a workout if you are dead tired.

Another negative side effect of lack of sleep is the fact that it doesn't give your body time to repair.  Mainly, I'm talking about the damaging effects this will have on your skin.  I think you all know what it feels like to wake up after an all nighter in the library (or elsewhere) and look in the mirror- really, it can just be horrifying.  If you notice, no amount of makeup really helps this as your eyes will still be tinged with redness and puffiness and your skin will look dull. Also, every person you run into seems to say, "Oh...you look...tired."(Which I tend to take as, you look pretty rough). This happens because your skin uses sleeping time to make new, bright, fresh skin cells and if you cut that time short then you will be stuck with the dead skin which will leave you with a dull complexion among other things.

The amount of sleep you get will probably play a big role in whether or not you can accomplish this six week challenge.  Now, I will say that there is no magic number of hours you need to sleep to guarantee you wake up feeling well rested.  Every person is different.  I can feel great with seven hours of sleep (although I'm pushing for 8) but some people really do need ten, so figure out what your body needs to feel great!

Now, if you are staying up until two in the morning every night and waking up at eight to go to work don't be surprised if you can't get to sleep at a decent time the first few nights.  Changing a sleeping schedule is really difficult but try to train your body and I promise you will feel happier, healthier, and even more beautiful!

PS.  I tend to get really anxious at night and I've heard from a lot of people that before bed they start planning their next day or they replay the events of the current day.  This causes restless sleep or your anxiety can make it impossible to actually fall asleep. (Trust me, been there!) The best tip I can give you is to count backward in your head from 20 taking deep breaths with each number.  I used it all this week and it has worked like a charm!

Need a refresher on what our six goals are for the next few weeks? Check out Six Weeks to Your Best You

Until next Monday- Get some sleep!

M

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Flawless in Six Minutes

Its getting warmer outside, the sun is shining and its vacation season.  This means one thing- you don't want to spend too much time in front of the mirror fussing with your makeup.  I have created a tutorial for a naturally flawless look that only takes about six minutes to apply!


If you create this look, I'd love to see it so post a picture on the Facebook page (you  can comment on the corresponding post), in the comments below, or in a video response on YouTube!

Also,  I've just started using an HD camcorder and a backdrop so the quality in tutorials is going to increase soon :)

Hope you enjoy this look.  If you have any request for other makeup tutorials be sure to let me know via the comment section or Twitter @madeleine0113.

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Trend to Try: Harem Pants & Summer Scarves



Spice up a pair of comfy harem pants with bright accessories for a fun, summertime look!

Monday, June 18, 2012

Make Peace Monday: New Series!

Hello everyone,

I hope everyone has had a fantastic week and a happy Father's Day.  During the past week, I've thought a lot about what this post should be about and I've decided to talk about the importance of becoming your best self. As I mentioned last week, accepting your body and who you are is the first step but there is nothing wrong with believing in self-improvement as long as it is coming from a healthy place. For me, I know I don't live the healthiest lifestyle. My diet isn't balanced, I jump on and off the exercise wagon, and I rarely get the sleep my body needs. By living this way, I know I'm not doing my body, health, or confidence any favors.  With that said, I've decided on my top six tricks and lifestyle changes that I am going to try to implement over the next six weeks.  I'd love it if you guys joined in with me if you feel like these might benefit you.  Here's a video introducing the next six weeks of MakePeaceMonday. 

Enjoy!


See you next Monday!
M

Saturday, June 16, 2012

How To: Brown Smokey Eye

A brown smokey eye is the perfect look for a night out, yet soft enough to be appropriate for the daylight hours as well! Hope you enjoy this look. 

 Indoor Light:           



Natural Light:


Tutorial:


Thursday, June 14, 2012

Be Inspired: Revlon True Red Lips

My favorite product this week is Revlon Colorburst Lipstick in True Red. Below are two looks inspired by Kristen Stewart's style and the True Red color that would be perfect to rock with a red lip. Look No. 1 is more of an every day, street style. & Look No. 2 is inspired by a red carpet look. 



Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Seal It With A Kiss: Lip Products That Will Finish Your Look

Whether you are rushing off to class, going grocery shopping, having dinner with friends, or going on a first date, a makeup must-have for any fashionista is perfect lips.  I want to share my top lip products (Most from Revlon, sorry I'm a bit obsessed with them at the moment) that are sure to enhance your look. 

No. 1: Classic Red Lips

Lip Color: 090 True Red, Revlon Colorburst Lipstick
Why It Makes the List: This lipstick has a creamy texture that lasts without drying the lips.  It has a beautiful glossy finish and rich color. This product is a part of Marie Claire's Top 25 Beauty Products. 


The Look:  If you are wearing a red lip, you will want to keep the rest of your makeup simple.  Stick to the basics- A foundation with good coverage, neutral eye makeup with black liner along the lashes and volumizing mascara.  You want the lips to be the statement here.


Tip: If you do a bold color on the lips it is best to use a lip liner like Revlon ColorStay Lip Liner

 

No. 2: Pretty in Pink

The Color: 09 Rock Candy, Estee Lauder Pure Color Gloss
Why It Makes the List:  This is the first gloss I've found that lasts for hours without being sticky.  The gloss has tiny flecks of sparkle that add a nice shimmer without looking frosty.   The shade is perfect for a natural, polished look. 

The Look:  A smoky brown eye or pink shadows like those from the Naked Palette by Urban Decay would be great for this look.  Light pink blush on the cheeks and some highlighter on the cheekbones will make this a naturally glowing look.


Tip: Before applying lip products, make sure you've exfoliated your lips. The easiest way-gently move a damp toothbrush in circular motions across your lips.

 

No. 3:  Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

The Color: Peach Parfait, Revlon Lip Butters
Why It Made the List: This has become my version of chapstick. It is super easy to apply and  it makes your lips feel hydrated and smooth. This color has sparkles that look great but can feel a little gritty on the lips after a while.  I have other lip butters without the sparkles and have found them very comfortable to wear.  That being said, I can deal with the gritty feeling because I absolutely love this color!


The Look: This is a punch of color and shine that can be paired with a bright eyeliner for a bit of edgy summer fun.  Using a bright colored liner along your waterline will not only brighten your eyes but will also add some drama to your daytime look. 


Tip: When lining the eyes with a bright color use a nude eyeshadow just to even out any discoloration on the lids.  Let the liner do the work.

 

 Swatches:


From L to R: Revlon Lip Liner in Red, True Red Revlon, Estee Lauder Rock Candy, Peach Parfait Lip Butter, and not mentioned but shortlisted- Just Bitten Revlon Lip Stain in Forbidden.


If you like these looks and want to know more about any of the makeup used here or possibly a makeup tutorial for one of these looks let me know in the comments below or on twitter @madeleine0113.


xoxo,
M








Monday, June 11, 2012

Make Peace Monday

Hi everyone,

This post is pretty lengthy but I just want to introduce something new to you.

Make Peace Monday is something I am really excited about sharing with you guys.  Part of the idea behind the title "Stay Beautiful" is that even with all the fancy makeup, products, and gorgeous clothes we, as women, spend time and money on every day, they really mean nothing if we don't have self confidence to back up our outward appearance. The makeup and fashion is just to enhance the already wonderful aspects of you. I think part of gaining confidence in ourselves comes from recognizing what makes you beautiful (Yeah, did One Direction just pop into anyone else's head?)  I was inspired to do this type of weekly post by Marie Claire Magazine's section: What I Love About Me. In this section women from all over the world share their quirks and why they love them.  So often we look at celebrities, models, and maybe even a best friend and think 'Why can't I look like her?' But maybe the thought that should follow that one is, 'Would the features of that celebrity, model, or friend be half as beautiful and sought after if they were common?'  Probably not.  That's what beauty is to me, things that set you apart from the crowd and make you who you are.  So, the mission of Make Peace Monday is to get women to recognize and change the critical voice in their heads to a kind and accepting one because realizing your own beauty is one of the toughest things to do.  One thing we all have in common is insecurities but hopefully by starting each week with  Make Peace Monday, we can focus on replacing the insecurities with confidence and becoming healthy both in our bodies and in our minds.

So after all that introduction here is my first Make Peace post:


I went to a hair salon a few weeks ago for a trim.  I hadn't wanted to change my hair but the hairstylist made the comment that I had a high hairline-aka a big forehead so I might want to consider bangs (or fringe for my UK followers).  He hit a weakness there.  When I was little, kids at school used to make fun of my forehead and I started to really dislike the way my face looked in pictures because of it. (I even crop my pictures to show less of my forehead...take a look you'll see).   Now you may be thinking that's a strange thing to be self-conscious of but seriously once you hear it enough you start to believe it.  So I did what anyone does, and joined in on the deprecating comments, laughing about it and pretending like it didn't bother me.  So with that history you can guess what  I said when I was told, "You're hairline is extremely high, maybe you need to not do the style you want but rather one that better suits your face." I said sure and bam, a layer of bangs covered my "Frankenstein" forehead as its been called.  Now, I will say it was cute and I got a lot of compliments but I just felt so hidden.  I think it is because I knew that the bangs were just there to hide something I was self-conscious about rather than an addition I had wanted for myself.  Last night as I was washing my face, I pulled my bangs back in a headband and realized how much better my favorite part of my face, my eyes, could be seen without them and I was hit with the thought that I missed good ole Frankenstein and the way my high forehead helped enhance my face's oval shape.  With my hair pulled out of my face I realized I looked like me and I looked more confident.  They say you don't realize what you've got till its gone and I realized that the shape of my face and that "high hairline" is actually not a bad thing.  I mean Tyra Banks is pretty famous for her forehead.  So this week, I've decided to make peace with that insecurity and as for the bangs, they are growing out.

If you want to join in on the Make Peace Monday try this:
Look in the mirror.  If a negative thought pops into your head, recognize it and close your eyes.  Open your eyes and try to make your first thought a positive one about yourself--sounds silly but I did it this morning and have felt confident all day.  If insecurities are a problem for you, just give this a try :) The best part, no one will ever know you've done it- they will just see your confidence and think 'That girl has it figured out.'

Until next week,
M

What I Love About Me- Marie Claire Magazine

(Please like this post either on the FB page or the blog or comment if you me to continue with MPM)


Update

Hello everyone,

I just want to let you guys know that if you've subscribed and are receiving emails you are currently receiving the full posts in the email.  As of tonight, it will be switching to only giving you a small section of the post so if you want to see more you will just need to visit the blog or the Facebook page for the link to the full post :)

Thanks,
M

Sunday, June 10, 2012

Facebook Page

Hello everyone,

I've started a Facebook page for Stay Beautiful so that you can get updates easily and share them with your friends!  Click  Stay Beautiful Facebook Page to like the page!

Thanks so much,
M

Get The Look: Nina Dobrev in Paris







 

Nina Dobrev stepped out in Paris in this adorable Deja Vu After 5 dress. This look incorporates the hottest color of the summer-white and the belt toughens up the otherwise dainty lace dress. I had never heard of Deja Vu before but after checking out their site their items are affordable and chic! This look would be perfect for a day out shopping, or with a quick change of accessories, perfect for date night.  The dress at Deja Vu's site is currently unavailable but you can email amy@shopdejavu.com to be placed on the waiting list for the dress.  But seriously, check out their site: Deja Vu
Original Wayfarer Black / G-15 XLT

This dress is a perfectly stylish alternative to Nina's lace dress and the cutouts in the back add a sexy edge.














Saturday, June 9, 2012

Mascaras of the Moment

 

Lancome Hypnose Doll Lashes Mascara


I love this packaging!
I bought the Tresor Rose perfume gift set and this mascara was included.  I absolutely loved the look of this mascara.  The brush is conical in shape which allows for you to reach even the innermost lashes with the thin tip and wing out the outer lashes with the thick end, giving you the perfect wide-eyed look.  It separates your lashes and lengthens.  As always, I'd recommend using an eyelash curler before applying the mascara for extra lift and curl.  Lancome Doll Lash has been getting a lot of press lately.  Emma Watson, the face of Tresor Rose and an ambassador for Lancome included this in her makeup for the MTV movie awards. 
 (To see her full look click here for my Best Dressed post.) 


Hypnose Doll Lash Mascara was also featured in the June issue of Elle magazine.  Kristen Stewart's look included this mascara.



My only complaint with this mascara is that I noticed some flaking after wearing it all day.  I think using a lash primer would be a smart decision.


Estee Lauder Primer Plus

Lash Primer Plus

I received this primer with my Estee Lauder Advanced Night Serum purchase (Review of it here.) and I've loved using it.  It helps my mascara go on smoother and last longer. My mascara lasts from the time I put it on at 7:30 AM until I wash my face before bed- way longer than 8 hours! I haven't tried many lash primers so I can't compare it with other options- if you have a favorite primer leave a comment below!

Estee Lauder Sumptuous Bold Lifting Mascara


Sumptuous

My lashes curl well but they are not the thickest in the world! This mascara really helps with adding volume to my otherwise sparse looking lashes.  I think this may be why I prefer this mascara to the Doll Lashes one.  This mascara would be perfect to use for night-time makeup as it gives a strong, bold look.  You could use this on the lower lashes but the wand really isn't conducive to separating them so you might want to pair it with a bottom lash mascara.  It is marketed on Estee Lauder's site to, "Lift and plump even sparse lashes into big, lush lashes that are all lightness and flirtatious curl."  I definitely agree! 


 

Benefit BadGal Lash Mascara


I received this product for Christmas after hearing rave reviews about it and was super excited.  The wand looked perfect for filling in my sparse lashes and I'd heard great things.  However, what I gained after about an hour of using this product were huge dark rings under my eyes.  Upon applying the mascara, my lashes looked amazingly voluminous and sexy but after blinking throughout the next hour, it had slipped down onto my face!  I had to stop using this product because I was getting so frustrated with it slipping.  I think if I give it another try I will definitely use a lash primer!

 

Maybelline Great Lash

Maybelline Great Lash Washable Mascara, Very Black
This is a classic.  It is super cheap and easy to apply.  If you are on a budget I recommend this one for sure because its very dependable.  It comes in several shades -I prefer the brown one for daytime.  It lengthens the lashes and adds a bit of volume.  The staying power is decent, it'll get you through the work day at least. 

Wishlist:


 

Dior Show Mascara

Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler




Do you have a favorite primer, mascara or curler?  Comment below and share with us! 

Friday, June 8, 2012

"And the Winner Is..."

Wow, I went from having no followers to having twenty in just one week! Thanks for subscribing- you guys are awesome.  I promised a giveaway and now the time has come to announce the winner. 


CONGRATULATIONS TO:

Erica A.






Keep a look out on the right side of the blog under Giveaways for more contest updates!

Blouses and Bows

Sheer blouses are perfect for dressing up a summer look!  With their weightless feel and flowy fit, you are sure to stay cool and beautiful no matter the temperature.  My favorite addition to the sheer blouse trend is the bow, which can be seen in many ways so you are sure to find a style that's right for you.


This orange number from Forever21 will add a vibrant pop of color to a pair of denim shorts during the day or skinny jeans and heels for a night out.  Plus, its an unbeatable price!






This look incorporates the bow in a black sash, accentuating the waistline and adding a touch of femininity to the chiffon button-down.




A cute pattern is a great way to liven up your outfit. The butterflies on this top make it fun and flirty.  This top would be great with black skinnies or simple white shorts and wedges for the daytime.


If you want a daintier, subtler version of the bow then this Topshop shirt is perfect for you.  The intricate detailing on the sleeves contrasted with the solid sweetheart neckline piece adds edge to this feminine top.  This would be perfect for a night out on the town with black pumps and black jeggings.

Get the look: Topshop Mini Bow


Any working girls out there?  This top from Asos fits just about every office dress code!

Get the Look: Asos Blouse

BB Creams: The All-in-One Skincare Craze

The BB Cream craze has blown up, seemingly out of nowhere, but just in time for the warmer months when you'd rather spend more time outside than in front of the mirror.

BB stands for "beauty balm" or "blemish balm" depending on the formula.  Its basically a tinted moisturizer with skin care ingredients and SPF.  The beauty balm formed its popularity in Asia and now almost every big name cosmetics brand has their own formula. 

Here are the 3 I am most excited to try:

Garnier - Miracle Skin Perfector - Light/Medium
Garnier BB Cream

Selling Point: You can't beat the price!
A Perfect World™ SPF 15 Age-defense tinted moisturizer with White Tea
Origins BB Cream

Selling Point:  I'm a huge fan of Origins and I've used their White Tea serums and cleansers before.  I truly believe in the power of their natural ingredients!


Estee Lauder BB Cream

Selling Point: SPF 35!


Have you used a BB Cream? Leave your comments below!

Thursday, June 7, 2012

Estee Lauder: Invisable Liquid Foundation vs. Double Wear Foundation

If you are in the market for a new foundation, I've got two great high-quality options for you. 

Invisible Liquid Foundation:

Invisible
This is perfect for the woman who wants barely-there coverage.  The formulation is thin and weightless allowing your natural skin finish to show through.  Unlike a tinted moisturizer, this foundation doesn't add a dewy look to the skin. I've used this product for a week and I think it is perfect for an easy, every day summer look.  It does stick to its name by being invisible-if you have blemishes or scarring on your skin, it will show through.  It spreads evenly over the skin without needing to use much which will make your investment in this product last longer.  This foundation is oil free so I think it would be suitable for most skin types.  This foundation is perfect for smoothing out the skin and adding an overall polished finish. 

Expert tip: When using this product, for best results shake 20-25 times before applying

Looking for a more affordable foundation with nearly the same effects?

Check out my February Favorites review of Maybelline's Fit Me Foundation.


Double Wear Foundation


This is my favorite foundation that I have tried so far!  It gives medium coverage, immediately evening skin tone, but sinks straight into the skin without leaving a cakey texture.  During the warmer months, it can be difficult to make your makeup last all day but this seriously will not budge! It can be a bit difficult to blend if you wait too long so I would suggest applying it to small areas one at a time until you get the coverage you want.  It is marketed to last 15 hours and look the same at the end of the day as it does when you put it on and it stays true to its word.  If you can splurge, I'd highly recommend this product as a staple in your beauty collection. 

Expert tip:  If you are going out for the night and using cameras with flash, be wary of foundations with SPF as they will photograph lighter, making you appear washed out.


Best Dressed of the MTV Movie Awards

"It's the MTV Awards, an appropriate occasion to wear something...a bit crazy," Emma Watson said in a Red Carpet interview with E!News.  The styles seen at this years awards reflected a trend: short, leg baring mini-dresses with structure.


Charlize Theron

Her Lanvin sheath dress combined classic structure with a bold color to create an effortlessly sophisticated look. 


Jen Aniston

Jennifer Aniston gives the tried and true LBD a new spin with her leather Valentino dress. 
Like Theron, she kept her hair and accessories simple to let the dress be the statement piece it deserves to be. 



Kristen Stewart

In true Stewart fashion, she chose a Guishem minidress with a graphic print to add the always present Kristen Stewart edge.  Interestingly, for the red carpet she paired her dress with Louboutin heels but traded them in for Chucks later in the show showing the versatility of the dress.



Emma Watson

Emma Watson supported Brood by wearing their new peplum mini dress with strappy heels and edgy cuffs.  Her look is a bit more edgy than usual but the risky graphic pattern paid off!


Emma Stone

Emma Stone kept it classy with a structured black and white
 mini dress, and incorporated classic designers Brian Atwood for shoes and Tiffany jewels. 


Comment below on who your best dressed is! My vote goes to Emma Watson.

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Announcement: This Could Be Yours!


Once I reach 15 followers, I will choose (at random of course!) a winner to receive this awesome prize package!  It includes:
A pink mesh cosmetics bag
Burts Bees Body Lotion
Origins Perfect World SPF 25 (face)
Origins Plantscription Serum
Estee Lauder Lip Gloss
Mary Kay Eye Primer
Murad Acne Spot Treatment
Bare Essentuals Body Lotion
Chesapeake Bay Floater Candle


Help me reach 15 followers by sending out a tweet or facebook status and make sure you subscribe! 

Subscribe!

Do you want to get the latest updates on products, fashion, and giveaways?

If you'd like to subscribe please click the the Join This Site button on the right under Followers.

Thanks,
M

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

May Favorites!



The number one product of May is Estee Lauder's Advanced Night Repair Serum.  I can't rave about this enough!  With just three uses, it cleared my skin and evened my skin tone.  It is important to protect your skin against aging and environmental factors early and not only does it do this, Advanced Night Repair has reversed acne scarring and fine lines in just one week. It truly is a miracle product that I will use for the rest of my life! 






Summer is all about bright colors and what better way to wear them than on your lips?  Revlon's Lip Butters are the perfect addition to a spring and summer makeup bag!  My favorite shade that I have tried is Peach Parfait.  The texture is smooth like lip balm but has the staying power of a lipstick.  The creamy texture sooths your lips and makes them softer and smoother with repeated use.  With so many shades available in drugstores you are bound to find one to suit you!





Urban Decay Potion Pot Primer is a must have for the summer months.  With the heat making it impossible for makeup to stay put all day, this primer will leave your shadow and eyeliner in perfect condition from day to night.  It prevents creasing and smudging but still allows for your shadows to blend easily. 








Summer sun can leave hair damaged and dry.  Garnier Fructis 3 Minute Hydrating Treatment is a perfect fix! I've used it all throughout the month and noticed it makes my hair softer and keeps the ends from looking frizzy and adds shine to my hair immediately after using it.  I'd highly recommend this to people who like to swim in the pool throughout the summer as this will help with the dehydrating effects of chlorine on your hair. 










That's all for May- Stay tuned for tomorrow's MTV Movie Awards Style Recap!