MONDAY MAKEUP...QUICK AND AFFORDABLE BASICS

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I get a lot of questions about my makeup routine. I’ve never done a tutorial cause I don’t feel like I’m an expert in the field! 

But, one question I get over and over? Foundation!!

How much are YOU spending on foundation? Sometimes the prices are jaw dropping. And they don’t need to be.

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I’ve often use expensive ones and I like trying new ones (I talked about it here in THIS POST). Over the years, I know the ones that work well for HD cameras under certain light. Soap opera lighting verses natural light outside, or indoor lighting on a nighttime set— or regular life!- they all could use slightly different coverage. 

But today, I’m sharing a drugstore version that I use a lot lately.

This is a BASIC, FAST Everyday look. Perfect for anyone, but really helpful for a busy mama;) I’ve gotten my routine down to about 6-8 minutes!


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FOUNDATION: Burt’s Bees CC Cream is so affordable, buildable works well in different light. It gives a dewy look and covers well and has sunscreen.  I put it on clean skin with a brush. I let it sit for a minute, then go back in and dab it on areas I need more help, like under the eyes or on blemishes.

EYELINER: Loreal Infalliable. Been a part of my mix of liners for years. Sometimes with a new one, I have to break it in, so to speak. Warm it up so it’s not so stiff.

MASCARA: I get asked about this a lot. People ask if they are my real lashes. Yes. I just put a lot of mascara on! Loreal Voluminous Mascara works. I also talk about it in this post.

BRONZER: I love Loreal’s overall bronzer for contouring and shading and an added glow.

LIPS: Revlon Ultra HD Lip Mousse Hyper Matte. I got it from Jamie Greenberg, celebrity artist- she does Kaley Cuoco’s face. This stuff stays on forever. I add lip balm on top and blot it so it kinda looks “natural.” I’m liking Dusty Rose and Death Valley. Funny names but nice colors.


DRUGSTORE HAIR PRODUCTS:

HAIRSPRAY: A little bit of Elnette does wonders.

SHINE: John Freida Shine Spray


NON-DRUGSTORE GO-TOS:

BROWS: Anastasia Palette I literally create an arch that is not there with this palette, but ANY darker powder will work with the right brush.

BLUSH: Benefit Palette I like a pop of color on my cheeks. I think it makes me feel more youthful. (Notice I said FEEL, not necessarily look younger. And feeling it is half the battle!)

Very curious if you decide to try a drugstore foundation! Lemme know if you think there’s a huge difference in the expensive brands or not??… I do like to change things up often, so lemme know you’re favorites, pretty please! Whatever you are loving NOW. Also, would y’all be interested in more video type stuff on here, too? Not necessarily a tutorial, but something more video oriented?? LMK!

xoxo

AAJ




MAKE ME UP: recent makeup questions answered

I have a notes section on my phone that I copy and paste DM’s or comments from you all…from time to time, I read them and have a lot of the same type of questions. Today, I’m answering questions about makeup.

On no level am I a makeup expert. Over the years, I’ve learned a lot from the all the makeup chairs in which I’ve sat. And in recent years, I like to collaborate with the makeup artists. I’m happy to share anything I’m using or what I’ve learned. I’m hoping you will share your ideas and collaborate with me, too.

The below are three iPhone photos. Different lighting (which can make ALL the difference) and no filters. I wanted you to see that for red carpet events (the bottom one), most of us wear a decent amount of makeup, especially if I’m broken out.

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Q: WHAT FOUNDATION ARE YOU WEARING?

I often switch up my foundation, but for the past few months I’ve been using Dior Airflash (in all below photos, too). IT DRIES VERY QUICKLY. So, if you wanna give it a shot, take note. I do spray it directly on my face (some people use a makeup tray) but I am ready to go with my brush to quickly blend it all over. I’m really liking it. Mainly because once it sets in, it stays put. It’s pricey, but it has lasted me a long time. I even used it every day on the Lifetime movie I just wrapped. And I still have a lot left. Shake it well before you use it. You can find it HERE (nordstrom) and HERE (sephora).

Q: IS THAT ONLY MASCARA OR ARE YOU WEARING FAKE LASHES?

In this photo above, it’s only mascara. But the bottom two photos, I am wearing fake lashes. I’m running low, so this is reminding me to reorder them now. I switch up my mascara often, but my go-to is LancomeDefinicils. But, I OFTEN wear Voluminous By Revlon from the drugstore or $5 on amazon right now.

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Q: DO YOU USE POWDER?

Yes, I like Jane Iredale Pure Pressed powder. It’s not too matte.

I also like IT Cosmetics bye-bye pores powder. (My forever issue— why won’t they shrink for good!)

Q: FAVORITE LIPBALM?

I am using Lanolips multipurpose right now.

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Q: WHAT IS THE LIPSTICK YOU ARE WEARING?

I get asked this almost every time I wear this lip color in the above photo (also wearing it in the middle photo). It’s Trish McEvoy Veil Lip in Tea Rose. Sometimes I layer it with another color to lighten or deepen the color.

In the first photo, I’m wearing 86 Tiger Eye shimmer Estee Lauder. It is very hard to find this color in the shimmer. (It’s on eBay for a ridiculous amount). The lighting makes it look slightly different, but in reality, it’s a perfect fall brown-ish with hints of iridescent light. If you run across it, lemme know;)

So hopefully, that answered some of your questions. I added a few of my other favorites right now below, too.

Makeup Forever Concealer - I have two to mix together for the perfect coverage for a breakouts or under eyes. Flesh and Pink Porcelain for me…

Almay concealer for breakouts.

Jouer highlighter in Citrine for high on the cheeks, tip of nose, below brow, tip top of forehead, décolletage and just above the lip line (barely) for a fuller lip look.

More questions? Lemme know in the comment. Also, I know I mentioned doing a Q&A with Jamie Greenberg, so I will make that happen, too. Also, YOUR TURN! As I mentioned above, I love learning and collaborating. What are your favorite products I should know about??

I loved learning about certain apps recently when you guys chimed in, so lemme know makeup secrets!

LOOK THINNER TONIGHT!

EDITED UPDATE: I wrote this post four years ago, but these little vanity tips still stand the test of time. I might do an updated post soon, cause I’ve learned even more since then.

As we strive to be our best selves, healthier habits are obviously a part of that resolution. That’s wonderful and all, but what about being the best version of yourself IMMEDIATELY? Any shortcuts to look good TONIGHT? Like some of our favorite stars?

I read through the emails via the "contact" section of this site and found that many of ask about camera ready tips and makeup tutorials. On this Emmy Sunday, I started thinking back to events I've attended and what it took to get "red carpet" ready. Hint: it takes a lot for me sometimes;)

After years in makeup trailers, I've had time to pick up some smoke and mirror tricks on looking thinner and feeling more confident. I've also had great mentors in wardrobe and makeup departments that have taught me well. I thank them for all their assistance and patience! Here's my list:

1) WEAR SHAPEWEAR

If you've followed my blog at all, you've heard me discuss my love of "help" with compression undergarments in all stages of my life: pre-pregnancy, pregnancy, postpartum and today. These new discoveries in shapewear are not your grandmother's girdle (if you're too young to remember that word, sorry!). I love a smooth look (like this dress in the picture below). Another great tip is double stick tape to keep clothes in place. You can buy the fancy kind, or literally use double stick tape.

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2) SMOOTH YOUR SKIN AND ADD COLOR

Blend in blemishes (veins, stretch marks, cellulite, brown spots) with a great DIY faux tan. A shade darker give the illusion of a leaner body. There's not a reason in the world to not have a little fun and look like you had a vacation (when you were really just binge watching tv!). And prep your face with a hydrating (or find the right one for you) mask prior to make up. I have been using AloisiaBeauty lately. Just ordered their deep hydration mist. And right now, just till TOMORROW, THEY HAVE TWO AMAZING GIVEAWAYS. Check out their instagram page and look for the post that says giveaway. They are giving away a ZIIP beauty (keep reading, I discuss this in further detail below).

Looking back at this HBO event I attended for TRUE BLOOD, I'm reminded how much a spray tan or a DIY bottle tan can help the overall look. 

3) WEAR YOUR HAIR OFF YOUR FACE AND UP IN A PONY OR MESSY BUN

This helps take down the roundness in my face if I feel puffy. If you are having any hair loss postpartum, this is an excellent way to camouflage it! I went through a series phase of hair loss with Hayden. If you’re curious about other tips for this phase, lemme know. I also am looking into hair clips, pieces and would be happy to share. I don’t currently use them but want to!!

4) CONTOUR

Create cheek bones that may not actually be that prominent. Take what you have naturally and enhance it. Also, highlight the upper cheeks and tip of the nose (tiny bit, this can get over done very quickly). I also used the Ziip every morning on my last project before filming. It is like getting a lymphatic drainage face massage every morning. My sister said I looked pounds thinner than I did the week before. It’s not cheap, but I believe worth it if you are consistent. I found out about it from very close girlfriends that I trust. I linked it to revolve because they offer a 10% discount if you give your email, so that saves quite a bit!!

5) ELONGATE THE LEG WITH THE SAME SHADE SHOE AS YOUR SKIN COLOR

No matter what color your skin is, if your shoes match your skin tone, it elongates the leg. And perhaps the oldest trick in the book is to add inches with a higher heel. Do both and you've sufficiently tricked the eye and taken off some pounds. If you're looking for a designer heel without the designer prices, check out the RealReal

6) WEAR ALL ONE HUE FROM TOP TO BOTTOM

Wearing monochromatic colors is one of my favorite techniques to implement! Wearing one hue from top to bottom means you go shopping in your own closet, too! Put together some of your basic items...mix high end pieces with vintage or inexpensive trends and create a great outfit. 

 

My savvy friend Ali recently blogged about an outfit and it wasn't until now that I realized it was nearly all monochromatic! Take a look at the post here . She also implemented my final idea....

7) DRAW ATTENTION TO A SPECIFIC AREA OF THE BODY

Ali wore a necklace that commanded attention, drawing the eye up to the neckline. Use this same technique by showing off your favorite part of your outfit or body. Wear a shorter dress if you love your calves or legs, or show off your shoulders with a sleeveless neckline and some statement earrings. 

If you have your own ideas or have questions, we'd like to hear your comments! xoxo

AFFORDABLE BIRTHING MAKEUP VIDEO TUTORIAL with Celebrity Makeup Artist Jamie Greenberg

Watch Celebrity Makeup Artist Jamie Greenberg give me a tutorial on "how to look good while giving birth." It sounds like a joke (and we definitely laughed a lot), but it's for real. I highly doubt any of us will be concerned with our makeup while we're in the hospital, but this tactic applies to any big event in life where you could break a sweat and need a lasting makeup look (could've used some of these products for my shower!).  And we used ONLY drugstore, affordable makeup. I found some new favorites (LookBook below!). Watch and let us know your thoughts! And subscribe to her channel! 

Calling All Mom's to Be!! SUBSCRIBE to my page! http://bit.ly/jamiemakeup So. You're 9 months pregnant and you're stressing over what last minute things you need for the baby! You don't have the time to worry about what makeup to pack in your hospital bag. Well don't worry, I've got you covered!!!

shop my favorites from the tutorial below!