There's something so deliciously soothing about the scent of almond. It's rich and lush, and the products it's infused with always seem good enough to eat. That's definitely the case for me lately, anyway -- especially with these two by Whish and Laura Mercier.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
My Newest Obsession: Almond
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Mani of the Week: OPI I Don't Give A Rotterdam!
My manicure this week is one of my favorites in awhile. I'd been wanting to paint my nails with OPI I Don't Give A Rotterdam! for quite some time, but I kept getting sidetracked. But this color, from Spring 2012's Holland Collection, finally called my name this week.
I Don't Give A Rotterdam! is a gorgeous dusty pale blue liberally flecked with micro gold glitter. I don't have anything like it in my collection, although Zoya Skylar comes close. I really love everything about this color -- the formula, while on the thin side, applies like a dream, and the greyish blue hue is so unique.
And check out all that sparkle! This polish shines even in the darkest of rooms.
What's on your nails this week? Let me know in the comments!
Sunday, May 27, 2012
Nail Polish Comparison: M.A.C Formidable! and Orly Galaxy Girl
I was going through my nail polish collection this past week, and two stuck out immediately. Why, you might ask? Because they looked absolutely identical in the bottle. I'm talking, of course, about M.A.C Formidable (from 2010's Venomous Villains collection) and Orly Galaxy Girl (from Fall 2010's Cosmic FX collection).
Friday, May 25, 2012
Salon and Spa Directory: Tenoverten
NARS. RGB. Chanel. Essie. OPI. If you're looking for an amazing collection of nail polishes to try during your next manicure and pedicure, Tenoverten is the spot for you. Oh, and did I mention they have a row of comfortable armchairs overlooking TriBeCa from huge arched windows and free iPads you can use while your hands and feet are buffed, scrubbed and polished to perfection?
I had been curious about Tenoverten for awhile, but since TriBeCa is nowhere near my apartment, it took awhile for me to make the trek. But wow, am I ever glad I did! Tenoverten is the kind of nail salon I've been looking for ever since I moved to New York 10 years ago.
I love everything about this spot, which is tucked into a landmark building on Reade Street. (Truth be told, I walked by it the first time and had to backtrack because the building and address were so unassuming!) An amazing array of nail polishes greets you as soon as you step into the salon, including all the newest Chanel colors and a selection of Tenoverten's own line. The space's inviting design, replete with overstuffed armchairs and tons of natural light streaming in, makes for a lovely way to spend an afternoon with a friend (or with yourself and your Kindle).
I was pleasantly surprised by the prices as well. This is one of the most upscale nail salons in the city, but it's extremely reasonable. Manicures are $15-$40, while pedicures are $35-$65. Yes, this is more expensive than your average walk-in salon, but it's worth it for a manicure and pedicure that last for up to two weeks with no chipping and the promise of cleanliness and professionalism.
Plus, they use Seche Vite Top Coat -- my favorite top coat of all time (and the fastest drying, glossiest one out there). Any salon who knows the amazingness of Seche Vite deserves 5 stars.
And the best part is, another location is opening very soon at the Parker Meridien! Now I'll have absolutely no excuse not to go every week.
For more information about Tenoverten and to book an appointment, visit tenoverten.com.
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Trend-Spotting: Colorful Statement Necklaces
Neon wrapped and braided rope, accented by gold beads and certain to cause a stir.
$510 at shopbop.com
Equally as bold against a neutral tee or eyepoppingly bright dress.
$895 at net-a-porter.com
When standing out in the crowd is of the utmost importance.
$945 at dannijo.com
I'd love to see this phoenix rise out of the ashes.
$700 at net-a-porter.com
Bright neons against rhodium-plated black Swarovski crystals make for a seriously bold statement day or night.
$1400 at net-a-porter.com
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Walt Disney World: My Top 10 List for the Happiest Place on Earth
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| Outside the entrance to the Magic Kingdom. Can you tell how excited I am? |
Monday, May 21, 2012
Fun Polka Dot Nail Art with M.A.C Girl About Town and Thakoon for NARS Koliary
It's an auspicious day here at The Beauty of Life. I created my very first nail art all by my lonesome! I'd been wanting to try polka dots for quite some time, and I finally took the plunge with two bright hues that recently made their way into my possession -- M.A.C Girl About Town and Thakoon for NARS Koliary.
Creating this look was actually extremely easy. I started by painting my nails with two coats of M.A.C Girl About Town, a gorgeous deep fuchsia that went on creamy, even and opaque in only one coat. (I applied two for extra staying power.) I then took a bobby pin and dipped it into NARS Koliary, a vibrant creamy turquoise. I wanted the polka dots to be different on each nail, so I put more on some nails than others. To keep the dots on the smaller side, I made sure to wipe off the pin before any dotting. I finished the look with one coat of Seche Vite for glossiness and shine.
This look was very easy to create, and I'm really loving the color combination! What's on your nails this week? Let me know in the comments!
Outfit of the Day: Relaxing At My Mom's House in Cleveland
It's rare that I post an Outfit of the Day post on The Beauty of Life, but today is an exception. I'm not going to say this is the most fashionable thing I've ever worn, but it is an outfit I wear pretty frequently -- especially when I'm traveling, which was the case today. I took a moment to sit under the tree at my mom's house in Cleveland and enjoy the sunshine in what is probably the most comfortable outfit I own, jazzed up with my favorite pair of bold gold chain earrings. Here's the final look for you!
Splendid leopard-print tee (no longer available, many more styles available at splendid.com)
Hue black cotton leggings
TOMS red canvas Classics (multiple styles available at nordstrom.com)
Bing Bang oversized gold chain earrings
Friday, May 18, 2012
My Latest Mani: RGB Steel
When I was rifling through my bag of untrieds for my manicure today, I came upon RGB Steel. Until I discovered this polish in my bag, I thought I was going to use a pink or red -- but, once this one caught my eye, all bets were off.
I've fallen in love with every RGB polish I've come across as of late. The formula is slick, creamy and extremely easy to apply. Every color is unique. And, as I'm a sucker for chic grey nail polish, how could I not immediately gravitate toward Steel? This polish is a gorgeous, creamy medium-tone grey and applies almost completely opaque in one coat. (I'm wearing two coats here for extra opacity, topped with Seche Vite of course.)
This is definitely a color that's going into my permanent stash! What's on your nails for the weekend? Let me know in the comments!
Chanel Orange and Peach Nail Polish Comparison Swatches!
When I was doing my nails with Chanel Distraction last week, I couldn't help but notice its proximity to two other Chanel nail polish colors, Miami Peach and Orange Fizz. I decided to do a little comparison swatching, and lo and behold, they're actually all pretty different!
On the index finger: Chanel Orange Fizz. Not surprisingly, it's very orange! Seen here with 3 coats, as the cream formula is actually a bit streaky and sheer.
On the middle finger: Chanel Distraction. This color is a combination of apricot, orange and peach. It does have a very faint hint of shimmer, but it's visible more in the bottle than on the nail.
On the ring finger: Chanel Miami Peach. This is the sheerest and sparkliest of the three. Three coats still let the nail peek through. The color is definitely more peach than orange or apricot.
Are there other nail polish comparisons you'd like to see me do? Let me know in the comments!
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Take a Juicy Bite: Bite Beauty Lush Lip Tint in Watermelon
I'm not really a lipstick girl. I love the idea of it, but just never end up wanting to reapply or find one that works well for my skin tone. Enter Bite Beauty Lush Lip Tint in Watermelon.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Obsession of the Moment: J Brand 901 Low-Rise Legging in Coated Rose Gold
So, here's the thing. I haven't been able to fit into designer jeans in a pretty long time. It's a slippery slope when you start to wear leggings all the time, isn't it? At least it was for me ... because, the longer I wore the leggings, the bigger my waistline got, and the less I wanted to even try to fit into pants that buttoned and zipped. Fast forward to the past couple months, when I've made strides to change things, and voila! My love of the J Brand 901 Low-Rise Legging in Coated Rose Gold was born.
Friday, May 11, 2012
Mani of the Weekend: Chanel Distraction
Somehow I've gotten into a pink and red mood as of late, and I'm absolutely loving it! I'm continuing the trend with Chanel Distraction, a gorgeous cantaloupe shot through with subtle shimmer. The finish is a mix of jelly and cream, and the shimmer is almost invisible unless you're standing in really bright sunlight. I'm loving the color -- it's so perfect for warm weather and for the onslaught of fun activities I've got going on this weekend!
And while I thought this one might be similar to Chanel Orange Fizz and Chanel Miami Peach, it's definitely darker and more coral than either of those colors. Stay tuned for a comparison post!
What's on your nails right now? Let me know in the comments!
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Crystal Clear: Kerastase Cristalliste Shampoo and Conditioner
It takes a lot for me to like a shampoo and conditioner. It takes the world for me to love them. But, as the case may be, I've fallen truly, madly, DEEPLY in love with Kerastase Cristalliste Shampoo and Conditioner. Specifically, the Luminous Perfecting Shampoo for Long, Thick Hair and the Luminous Perfecting Conditioner for Long Hair.
Monday, May 7, 2012
Mani of the Week: butter LONDON Disco Biscuit
I am so not a pink nail polish girl. But for some reason, butter LONDON Disco Biscuit really called my name this week ... and I have a feeling it's because of the glittery blue flecks baked into the hot pink formula.
Is this my favorite nail polish ever? No, for two reasons...
Friday, May 4, 2012
First Look Fridays: Makeup Artist Nikoletta Skarlatos
From Freida Pinto in Immortals to Leven Rambin in The Hunger Games, makeup artist Nikoletta Skarlatos has designed some intricate and truly gorgeous looks throughout her career. Read on to discover the product she uses to make skin glow, her secret to long-wearing eyeshadow and so much more.
How did you first become interested in makeup, and what led you to become a makeup artist?
I became fascinated with makeup artistry since my early childhood in Greece. In the United States, I was a very serious ballet dancer until I went away to University. During those years as a dancer, I designed my own costumes and my own makeup for every configuration and character. I studied the Grand Masters, Art History, fashion photographers and many great creative female forces of nature, such as Coco Chanel.
My life has been full of magical and serendipitous events. I believe in manifesting one’s dreams through hard work and leaving oneself open to opportunity. After I finished my academic studies, and could NOT find a job, I had a chance meeting with the Regional Director of Chanel Cosmetics. She created a position for me within the company on the spot, and within six months I was handling the Upper West Coast with this mentor. Soon thereafter, I became the West Coast Makeup Artist for Chanel as well as product promoter and trainer.
As madly in love with Chanel as I was and always have been, Leonard Lauder himself came to see us and lured us away from Chanel. The opportunity with Lauder had me moving to Los Angeles. I then worked for the Lauder corporation in an even more expanded capacity, all the while learning makeup techniques, skincare formulations, product development and designing signature makeup looks for their brand.
In Los Angeles, I became involved with commercial advertising, high fashion editorial and music videos. A friend suggested that I go for an interview for a film that was to turn Union. The interviewer was Johnny Depp, and although he had hired his makeup department head, he was involved in the selection of the key position. I was fortunate to have been chosen. As a result, I found myself in the unique position to be able to study prosthetic and special effects makeup artistry under the department head, John Caglione, Jr.
You were the designer and department head for both Immortals and Flight -- and in fact you were nominated for a Saturn Award for Best Makeup for Immortals. What was the experience like for each of these films, and how did you concept the looks for the different characters?
Designing and department heading Immortals was a creative dream. I got to collaborate with the incredibly talented costume designer, the iconic Eiko Ishioka, as well as all of the creative teams per each department. There were many amazing characters to develop, from the Gods and Goddesses to the Soldiers to the Titans. I wanted the Titans to be something spectacular and not seen before. I took the influence of Post World War II photographer Dieter Appelt and the way that he portrayed decomposing beings. I wanted the Titans to look as though they were cracking apart a la Appelt.
This was a difficult task to achieve, and I had various groups of very talented artists mixing different formulations to achieve what were ultimately the three looks that I chose to be utilized: the very cracked look, the medium fast movement cracked look and the painterly Titan look. Equally, I loved creating and working with Freida Pinto as the Goddess Phaedra. I created a sort of high fashion meets ancient Mesopotamia look on Freida and carefully guarded her natural, (and beautiful) skin tone.
Amongst the various groups of soldiers, the Heraklions were inspired from a John Paul Gaultier fashion runway shot, and then I had my team creatively incorporate a lot of abstract painting with texture to complement Eiko’s menacing costumes. There were many facets to this film, and it was a very creatively fulfilling project.
The film Flight was at once a completely different and an extremely rewarding experience for me. I had always wanted to work for Robert Zemeckis and I know that I echo the feeling of many on this film, that the experience was seamless and beyond compare. Because we were shooting in high definition, and the red camera, there were many specific challenges with the makeup effects involved. I had to do many tests with appliances, blood and freehand sculpting. I designed the effects for the film as well as the plethora of makeup looks for the various characters: crash wounds, burns, beauty, drug addiction, cancer addled patients, tattoos. It was necessary to be hyper aware of texture and the visibility of any uninvited nuance to the makeup. The Director of Photography (Don Burgess) was wonderful and a great collaborator.
What are your top 5 favorite beauty products?
1) My skincare line (not yet available but coming VERY soon). I have been formulating and using my products for years, all biodynamically charged and resonant with the natural elements of the skin. As the skin is our largest living and breathing organ, it is of the utmost importance that it is fed both in and out by highly oxygenated food and vitamin sources.
What are your top 3 makeup tips?
1) Take Vitamins D, A, C and E to protect the skin naturally from within, against sun damage. Also Vitamin B-12 shots are a necessity to do the same and boost the system with antioxidants. Take these in their purest, most organic forms possible.
2) Using a long stemmed angle shadow precision brush, take a hint of Evian, Vichy or any spray water, and dip into your powder eye shadow. Paint this on the inside of the eyelid, from the center outward. Immediately the eye is opened up and this form of application allows for long wear and durability. This was taught to me by Laura Mercier, and I have used this tip for years.
3) I always mix a little moisturizer into my foundation after having already prepped the skin with toning and hydration. The skin MUST look alive, and this can only be achieved through illumination after hydration. The objective for me with makeup, specifically beauty and editorial/press, is for the skin to glow and for my client to look luminous and flawless. Through hydration and highlight/shading, the face can easily be transformed into an object of radiance!
Being a makeup artist must be fun, but what do you do in your spare time?
I love music and dance and politics! I love to create layers of sound through music. I have been blessed with an amazing career which has taken me all over the globe. I am captivated by travel and learning about other cultures and their languages and music. I am devoted to helping others with health opportunities and have been for years. I try to donate my time toward helping and learning in the areas of holistic healing and each journey has been rewarding on many levels. Life is truly a blessing and I do cherish every moment of it, including this great moment with you, Jamie!
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Beauty Giveaway: Keranique Volumizing Shampoo and Conditioner
Worried about thinning hair? You don't have to be! Thanks to Keranique Volumizing Shampoo and Conditioner, that is. This duo is formulated with peppermint oil, which does everything from helping stomach ailments and cold symptoms to enhancing hair and scalp health. And what this means for thinning hair? The peppermint oil moisturizes the hair shaft and stimulates new hair growth while offering up a delightfully tingly effect. Oh, and did I mention this shampoo and conditioner smell fantastic?
And here's the best part. Two lucky winners will receive the duo, which has a retail value of $70! To enter, simply leave your name and email address in the box below. Good luck!
THE RULES:
This giveaway ends on Sunday, May 6 at midnight. One winner will be chosen AT RANDOM on Monday, May 7. One entry per person and email address. Multiple entries will be disqualified. Giveaway is open to US residents only.
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