Electric Glamour.

Product Review: Shoe Dazzle

2012-02-21T00:55:00.000-05:00

This video features a review of the company, Shoe Dazzle. Watch for details! Pictures of the products are, of course, listed below :)

1. Arabella, size 7

2. Step Up, size 7

3. Shrie, size 7

Until next time..

Xoxo, Rachel

Makeup Tutorial: Green Smoky Eyes

2012-02-21T00:40:00.001-05:00

I created this look as an option for St. Patrick's Day, but also as one of the many alternatives to the typical smoky eye. Using greens and golds, it really adds warmth to the face, and would be complimentary to pretty much any skin tone and/or eye color. As always, all products used are listed below. Enjoy!

1. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion
2. Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Liner in "stash"
3. Benefit Highlighter in "Gilded"
4. Urban Decay Eyeshadows in "cobra" and"bender"
5. Wet n Wild "Comfort Zone" Eyeshadow Palette
6. Urban Decay 24/7 Liquid Liner in "perversion"
7. MAC Kohl Eyeliner Pencil in "smolder"
8. Bare Escentuals BuxomLash Mascara in "blackest black"
9. MAC Lipstick in "blankety"
10. NYX Cosmetics MegaShine Lip Gloss in "pink frost"

As always, thanks for watching!
Xoxo, Rachel

Is Your Makeup Breaking You Out?!

2012-02-19T17:15:00.000-05:00

First, let me start by saying that I was inspired to write about this after years of experimenting with products, often learning the hard way. Some people are blessed with skin that can seemingly withstand any product, under any conditions, but sadly, I am not one of them.

If you have sensitive, acne-prone skin, or even if you don't normally, and your skin has been acting strangely lately, your makeup could be to blame. I'm going to discuss some guidelines of things you want to avoid when purchasing new makeup.

It's really important to investigate before purchasing new products that go directly on your skin (excluding eye and lip products). This includes primer, foundation, powder, bronzer, blush, and even moisturizer. Yes, I know, it seems like quite a daunting process, but I promise, once you become familiar with a few red flag ingredients, you'll be scanning labels like a pro. Most importantly, you'll be better equipped to pinpoint what ingredient/s are causing irritation so you can avoid them (LIKE THE PLAGUE!) in the future.

Keep in mind that everyone's skin reacts differently, so what could irritate you might be fine for someone else. This is just a little education so you can hopefully have a better understanding of what you're using on your face.

Red Flag #1: Comedogenic/Allergenic Products

Check product labels to see if they're listed as being "non-comedogenic" and "hypoallergenic". This is what you want to see. Non-comedogenic means that the product doesn't block pores, hence, reducing the likelihood of causing a breakout. Hypoallergenic means "having decreased tendency to provoke an allergic reaction."

Red Flag #2: Oil

As a general rule, if you are prone to breakouts, you'll want to look for products that are oil free. The natural oils in your skin are a good thing, and regulating them can promote clear skin, but oils in makeup can often be pore clogging, leaving your skin unable to breathe, and we all know what this leads to. Mineral oil is especially bad for this. Not all oils are bad, as some are used in removing makeup (such as castor oil, or olive oil), but if you have a sensitivity, definitely use with caution.

Red Flag #3: Corn Starch

Corn starch is used as an absorbent in makeup. It can be found it a lot of mattifying foundations and powders. Because it's a food derivative, when it becomes moist, it can promote bacterial and fungal growth in your pores. Can you say yuck?! Corn starch is a main ingredient in some Bare Minerals products, so beware! Just because it says "mineral" does not mean it's completely safe.

Red Flag #4: Titanium Dioxide

Titanium dioxide is basically a powder that gives white color to cosmetics. It's used in sunscreens and foundations with SPF. While SPF in foundation is often a factor people look for, TD can be pore clogging, and trigger allergies.

Regardless of what products you end up using, it's always important to completely remove your makeup, wash your face, and moisturize before going to bed. When you're sleeping, your skin has a chance to rejuvenate and repair itself. You don't want to suffocate it with leftover makeup.

I hope this was informative! I plan on filming a video about this soon, and further discussing ways to keep your skin clear and fabulous! :)

Until next time..

Xoxo, Rachel

Makeup Tutorial: Rihanna

2012-02-15T17:01:00.000-05:00

After doing Adele's Grammy makeup, I couldn't resist giving Rihanna's a go as well. She looked so smoldering, and I think this would be a perfect look for going out on the town when the weather gets warmer, and you start getting your glow on :) A list of all products used is below. Enjoy!

1. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion
2. mark Eyeshadows in "espresso" and "whisper"
3. MAC Kohl Eyeliner in "smolder"
4. Bare Escentuals BuxomLash Mascara in "blackest black"
5. Benefit Bronzer in "Dallas"
6. Benefit Highlighter in "Gilded"
7. Revlon Lip Butter in "cupcake"

Thanks for watching!
Xoxo, Rachel

Makeup Tutorial: Adele

2012-02-15T11:20:00.000-05:00

Adele looked absolutely beautiful at the 2012 Grammy Awards, and it's a good thing, because the spotlight was on her all night. I'm a huge fan of hers, so it's only right that I attempt to recreate her stunning look from her performance. All products used are listed below. Enjoy!

1. Makeup Forever HD Foundation in #140 and #120
2. Makeup Forever HD Powder
3. Benefit "Dallas"
4. Benefit "HighBeam" Highlighter
5. MAC Mineralize SheerSheen Powder in "silver aura"
6. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion
7. Maybelline Color Tattoo Eyeshadow in "too cool"
8. Urban Decay Eyeshadows in "skimp", "midnight rodeo", and "lost"
9. Urban Decay 24/7 Liquid Liner in "perversion"
10. MAC Kohl Liner in "smolder"
11. Salon Perfect "Perfectly Glamorous" Lashes in "demi whispies"
12. Revlon Lip Butter in "creamsicle"
13. MAC Lipstick in "ravishing"

Thanks for watching!
Xoxo, Rachel

Makeup Tutorial: Christina Aguilera

2012-02-10T20:20:00.001-05:00

Today's look was inspired by Christina Aguilera on the season two premiere of The Voice. A list of all products used in this video will be listed below. Enjoy!

1. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion2. Benefit Gilded Highlighter Pencil3. Wet n Wild "Comfort Zone" Eyeshadow Palette4. mark Eyeshadow in "whisper"5. MAC Glitter in "gold"6. Urban Decay 24/7 Liquid Eyeliner in "perversion"7. Ardell False Lashes in "demi whispies"8. MAC Lip Liner Pencil in "redd"9. Wet n Wild Megalast Lipstick in "stoplight red"
Thanks for watching!Xoxo, Rachel

Beauty Crush: Kristen Stewart

2012-02-08T23:22:00.002-05:00

I don't know how I'm just now discovering these pictures, but back in the September 2011 issue of W Magazine, Kristen Stewart was the cover girl, and posed for this fabulous photoshoot, rocking big hair and sultry makeup. (You can read the article, and find the picture source here.) According to Spring 2012 trend reports, big, beautiful, teased-up-to-Heaven hair is in, and being a southern gal, of course I'm right on board :) No more explanation necessary as to why I have a major beauty crush on this look.. the pictures say it all.

Am I the only one off to grab my teasing comb now?

Here's to good glamming, friends.

Xoxo, Rachel

Drugstore Haul + Product Reviews

2012-02-03T14:45:00.002-05:00

Hello lovelies! Today, I'll be sharing with you some of my recent drugstore purchases, and reviews on the products. This video is featuring Maybelline Color Tattoo Eyeshadows, Wet n Wild Mega Last Lipstick, and NYX Round Lipstick & Megashine Lip Gloss. I've also included swatches below. Enjoy!

L TO R: MAYBELLINE COLOR TATTOO EYESHADOW "POMEGRANATE PUNK", "TOO COOL"

L TO R: NYX LIPSTICK "ORANGE SODA", WET N WILD MEGALAST LIPSTICK "STOPLIGHT RED", NYX MEGASHINE GLOSS "PINK FROST"

Until next time..

Xoxo, Rachel

Makeup Tutorial: Valentine's Day!

2012-01-25T20:25:00.000-05:00

Products Used For This Look:
1. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion
2. Maybelline Eyestudio Color Tattoo Eyeshadow in "too cool"
3. Maybelline Eyestudio Palette in "taupe temptress"
4. Rimmel London Eyeliner Pencil in "pure white"
5. Urban Decay 24/7 Liquid Eyeliner in "perversion"
6. Bare Escentuals BuxomLash Mascara in "blackest black"
7. Ardell Lashes in "demi whispies"
8. Bare Escentuals Buxom Big & Healthy Lipstick in "miami"
9. Bare Escentuals Buxom Lip Gloss in "naomi"

Thanks for watching!
Xoxo, Rachel

MAC Lipstick Swatches

2012-01-20T17:58:00.001-05:00

I had a request to do swatches of the MAC lipsticks I used in my "Bold Lip Color" video, and since MAC is my long-standing favorite for lipsticks, I thought I would go ahead and show all of the colors I own.

With Flash:

Without Flash:

From L to R: Show Orchid, Saint Germain, Snob, Blankety, Ravishing, Vegas Volt, MAC Red

These colors are all super pigmented, and really long-lasting. At $14 a piece, they are a bit pricier than drugstore lipsticks, but they last forever - I've had some of these since late '07 or '08! I would definitely recommend stopping by your local MAC counter and checking them out.

Until next time,

Xoxo, Rachel

Makeup Tutorial: Mardi Gras

2012-01-19T16:54:00.002-05:00

This look was inspired by Mardi Gras, which is coming up next month! Gold, green and purple.. hope you enjoy! :) A list of products used are listed below.

1. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion

2. MAC Cream Color Base in "fuchsia"

3. Urban Decay Eyeshadow in "midnight cowgirl"

4. Pop Beauty Lid Neon Palette

5. MAC Eyeshadow in "creme de violet"

6. Urban Decay Eyeshadow in "sin" and "skimp"

7. MAC Eyeliner Kohl in "smolder"

8. Urban Decay 24/7 Liquid Liner in "perversion"

9. Bare Escentuals BuxomLash Mascara in "blackest black"

10. Ardell Lashes in "demi whispies"

Thanks for watching!

Xoxo, Rachel

Product Review: Wet N Wild

2012-01-17T20:17:00.001-05:00

A few days ago I picked up the "Comfort Zone" Eyeshadow Palette from Wet N Wild after hearing good things about their products from fellow bloggers and YouTubers. They have a great selection of makeup, and nothing I saw was over $4.99 (which is how much this palette was). I'm always skeptical of drugstore makeup, but I am really pleased with these shadows. The colors are really pretty, and nicely pigmented, especially for the price. I~~'ll be doing some makeup tutorials soon so you can see them in action!~~ Video tutorial now posted below! For now, I have swatches.

Left side: bottom color to top.

Right side: bottom color to top.

I would definitely recommend using a primer with these, but that's with any shadow. They lasted all day when I wore them, without creasing or fading, so I'm impressed. All of the shadows have a shimmer to them, so if you're more of a matte person, they might not be for you, but other than that, I can't really complain.

I hope this was informative! Here's to good glamming!

Xoxo, Rachel

The Golden Globes

2012-01-16T21:50:00.000-05:00

The stars were out last night for the 69th Annual Golden Globe Awards. They scattered the red carpet in their fancy dresses, and there was definitely a theme in the air when it comes to makeup trends. Almost every lovely lady stuck to true old Hollywood fashion, and sported either a red lip, or a very nude, glowy look. These looks are timeless, and are flattering on everyone. I wanted to share a few of my favorites from the night! Enjoy :)

Charlize Theron

This is my absolute favorite look of the night. I love how simple her makeup is; it shows that you can still look glamourous without caking on layers and layers of product and overly saturated color.

And now, for honorable mentions.

Angelina Jolie

Debra Messing

Emma Stone

Lea Michelle

Jessica Alba

Until next time,

Xoxo, Rachel

Makeup Tutorial: Nicki Minaj

2012-01-13T22:03:00.000-05:00

This look was inspired by Nicki Minaj. She isn't afraid to take fashion risks, and that's what I love about her. You typically won't find her without a neon color or two, whether it's on her face or in her hair. This certainly isn't a look for every day at the office, but next time you're in the mood to brighten things up, this might be for you :) All products used are listed below.

1. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion

2. Sephora Eye Crayon in "white"

3. Urban Decay Eyeshadow in "zephyr"

4. Pop Beauty Lid Neon Eyeshadow Palette

5. MAC Eyeshadow in "aquadisiac"

6. Urban Decay Eyeshadow in "skimp"

7. MAC Eye Kohl in "smolder"

8. MAC Eyeshadow in "carbon"

9. Bare Escentual BuxomLash Mascara in "blackest black"

10. Sephora Lip Liner in "naked"

11. MAC Lipstick in "saint germain"

Thanks for watching!

Xoxo, Rachel

Makeup Tutorial: Kim Kardashian Smoky Eyes

2012-01-05T21:00:00.003-05:00

I'm back with another tutorial, and this time I was inspired by one of the biggest headliners of 2011. Oh yes, I'm talking about Miss Kim Kardashian. But you don't have to be a Dash fan to enjoy this look. This is a smoky eye that will look good on everyone, whether you're planning a hot night out, or you just want to bring some drama to daytime. All products used are listed below. Enjoy!

1. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion2. Sephora Eye Crayon in white3. MAC Eyeshadow in "young thing"4. MAC Eyeshadow in "carbon"5. MAC Eyeshadow in "gentle fume"6. Sephora Eyeshadow in "aspen summit"7. MAC Kohl Eyeliner in "smolder"8. Buxom Lash mascara in "black"9. Ardell Glamour Lashes in "demi wispies"

Thanks for watching!Xoxo, Rachel

Ten Easy Ways To Feel Prettier in 2012

2012-01-03T16:49:00.001-05:00

Say hello to the new year, and a new you!

The beginning of a new year always brings on feelings of hope, excitement, and the desire to change. It's the perfect time to start taking more care of yourself, feeling beautiful and confident! You don't have to do anything drastic, though, to have a little more pep in your step. Haven't you heard that it's the little things that count? ;) Well, I think that's true, so that's why I put together a list of ten easy ways you can feel prettier in 2012.

1. Paint Your Nails. Maybe you're the kind of gal who prefers a natural manicure, or maybe you're like me, and you let your existing polish remain on your nails until it chips so badly, it's hard to even decipher what color it once was. (Woops! =/ hehe) Either way, switching up your nail color has fabulous, feel-good effects.

2. Try A New Hairstyle. This doesn't mean hitting the salon for the latest must-have celeb do. (Unless you want to, of course!) If your best friend is the flat iron, try switching it up a little. Wear your hair curly one day. Maybe rock a pony tail the next. Half up, half down. Try a braid. You get the picture.. ;)

3. Experiment With Makeup. If you normally play it safe, try something out of your comfort zone. Anything from smokey eyes, to a pop of colored liner, to a bold lipstick will work.

4. Take A Long, Hot Bath. So often we praise baths and their wonders, but how many of us actually have time to take them? We're busy gals, and usually a shower is the quickest and chosen way to go. Well, it's time to slow down, pour in your favorite bubble bath, and relax.

5. Shave Your Legs. Your initial reaction might be that this is a silly one, but not so much, actually. During the winter months, don't lie, it's a lot easier to slack off on shaving our legs, because we think, "Well, I'll be wearing pants.. it's not like anyone's going to be seeing them." Even if you don't fall into this category and you shave every day (LIAR! ;P), you know the joy in applying lotion onto your legs and having that silky, smooth, "touch me" feeling.

6. Get A New Signature Scent. The Christmas rush might have come and gone, but all of those perfume ads that played endlessly on our televisions? Well, they were good for something. With so many awesome new perfumes on the market, ditch your old go-to, and try something new! Pick a scent that makes you feel sexy, daring, and unapologetically you.

7. Rearrange. Whether you get ready every morning in the bathroom, the bedroom, or maybe even your office, it's time to do a little rearranging. The ambiance of your atmosphere affects your mood, so wherever it is that you choose to pretty yourself up every day, add a little sparkle to the decor.

8. Have A Dance Party. If you're feeling down in the dumps, turn on your favorite feel-good song, and dance your little heart out! Pretend you're in the center of a dance floor at the most happening night club in town, and all eyes are on the hottest, new it-girl. (YOU!) Not only will you work up a sweat, which is obviously great for you, you'll feel a little sexier. Yeah, even if your dance moves do look more like Napoleon Dynamite than Dancing With The Stars. No one was there to prove it! hehe

9. Drink More Water. Drinking more water will keep your skin hydrated, flush impurities from your body, and you'll simply feel better!

10. Daily Pep Talk. The most important thing, above all on the list, is this one. I want to challenge you to look into the mirror every single day and tell yourself that you are beautiful, flaws and all. That thing you hate about yourself? Yeah, no one else probably even notices. No one on this earth is perfect, but we are all beautiful in our own, special way. Make this a mantra. If you're feeling insecure, just keep telling yourself that you're beautiful, and you have nothing to be afraid of. Face the world with a confident smile, and your life will be brighter because of it.

Wishing you the very best in 2012,

Xoxo, Rachel

Friday Night Fever: Dance Mix!

2011-12-30T11:47:00.000-05:00

I decided to wake myself up this morning by having an impromptu dance party in my living room. Dancing is the quickest way to feel a little happier. I decided to put together a playlist of some of my personal faves to boogie down to, so feel free to close your blinds, and dance your troubles away! Enjoy :)

Friday Night Fever Dance Mix by Rachel Tyree on Grooveshark

Xoxo, Rachel

Favorite Makeup Products of 2011

2011-12-29T21:36:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe, but 2011 is coming to an end. Here's a list of products that helped make my year a little prettier ;) To find out more, you can, of course, click the links to purchase them, and if you haven't already, check out my video to hear me discussing just what makes these products so great :)

1. Makeup Forever HD Microperfecting Primer

2. Makeup Forever HD Invisible Cover Foundation

3. Smashbox Camera Ready Full Coverage Concealer

4. Makeup Forever HD Microfinish Powder

5. Urban Decay Book of Shadows IV

6. Buxom Lash Mascara

7. Bare Escentuals bareMinerals Faux Tan All Over Face Color

8. NARS Blush

9. Buxom Big & Healthy Lip Polish

10. MAC Lipstick

Xoxo, Rachel

TUTORIAL: Classic Pin-Up Girl

2011-12-27T18:09:00.002-05:00

Hello lovelies! This makeup look is inspired by the classic pin-up girl. Black winged liner and red lips will never go out of style. All products used are listed below. Enjoy!

1. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion

2. Urban Decay "skimp" and "zephyr"

3. Fantasea Cosmetics matte brown eyeshadow (it didn't have a name, sorry!)

4. Sephora Nano Eyeliner Pencil in "chocolate"

5. Urban Decay 24/7 Liquid Liner in "perversion"

6. MAC ProLash Mascara in "coal black"

7. MAC Lip Liner Pencil in "redd"

8. MAC Satin Finish Lipstick in "MAC Red"

Thanks for watching!

Xoxo, Rachel

The Wednesday Wishlist.

2011-12-21T19:13:00.000-05:00

1. Jeffrey Campbell "Night Walk" Shoes - All I can say is oh my Gaga! These shoes totally remind me of something my favorite pop starlet would be snapped stomping around in. But seriously, Jeffrey Campbell does no wrong when it comes to fancy footwear. The baby pink/peach color is to die for! And who cares if they look nearly impossible to walk in? Loving.

2. West Village Fete Dress - This little number from Modcloth would be perfect for Christmas and New Year's parties. There's something so 1970s NYC glam about sequin dresses. Can you say fabulous? This particular ensemble also slightly reminds me of Old Gregg (major props if you know what I'm talking about..*wink*), and.. how could that ever be a wrong fashion statement?

3. The Sigmax Synthetic Essential Kit - My last WW post featured a brush set too, but I can't help it. I am in the beauty business, after all. This kit from Sigma features all of their high definition brushes. I'm especially dying to get my hands on their F80 foundation brush. Looks amazing!

4. NARS Danmari All About Cheeks Palette - This palette features six highly pigmented cheek colors from NARS, who just so happens to make my favorite blush (in "orgasm"). It includes a bronzer, an ivory gold that would be amazing as a highlighter, and more, from pinks to peaches.

5. Sultra The Bombshell Pink BCA 1" - Curling iron rods like this one are all the rage right now. Sultra makes awesome beauty tools, so this would be my go-to choice if I decide to purchase one. Plus, it's pink (for Breast Cancer Awareness)! How adorable, right? But the best part is, Sultra is donating a percentage of proceeds to Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the Breast Cancer Society of Canada.

Until next time..

Xoxo, Rachel

TUTORIAL: New Year's Eve Glitter Eyes

2011-12-18T17:40:00.001-05:00

I was inspired to create this look while pondering on what kind of makeup I'll be doing for myself on New Year's Eve. With an event as major as a year's end, I think everyone should feel free to pull out all the stops.. glitter, big lashes, and of course, lots of glam. Products used are listed below.

1. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion
2. Urban Decay Eyeshadows in "midnight cowgirl", "lost", "missionary", and "skimp".
3. Avon Big Color Eye Pencil in "chocolate"
4. Urban Decay 24/7 Liquid Liner in "perversion"
5. MAC ProLash Mascara in "coal black"
6. MAC Brow Gel in "show off"

As always, thanks for watching!
Xoxo, Rachel

Honeymooners.

2011-12-16T18:56:00.004-05:00

Since Jesse and I didn't take a honeymoon directly after our wedding, we decided to take a sweet little getaway to a cabin in the Smoky Mountains. It was such a good decision! Hidden away in the trees, "The Path of Love" lived up to its name. We took full advantage of the fireplaces, hot tub, and pool and air hockey tables. It was so nice escaping reality for a while with my favorite person. We're back home now feeling refreshed and ready for Christmas!

As great as it was, we sure did miss our little guy! He stayed with his papaw while we were away since the cabin wasn't pet friendly. All is well, though, because he is currently snuggled on my chest as I'm writing this. Here he is a few nights ago under the Christmas tree. It's become his new favorite napping spot :)

Until next time..

Xoxo, Rachel

Glam Gift Guide: Sephora Edition!

2011-12-13T23:14:00.000-05:00

I decided to make a gift guide for the glamour girls on your Christmas list! Sephora is a wonderful place to serve all your makeup, hair and skincare needs, so I scoped out their website for some of the best potentials, and here are my picks! Enjoy :)

1. philosophy Sweet Kisses & Merry Wishes Set - $36

This adorable holiday-themed set comes with four different scents of a multi-purpose formula that can be used as shampoo, shower gel, and for bubble baths. It also comes with four coinciding deliciously flavor lip glosses. Scents included are sugar sprinkles funnel cake, peppermint bark, pomegranate bubbly, and old fashioned eggnog.

2. Glimmer Wonderland Eighteen Piece Mini Nail Color Set - $48

This pretty stack of polishes is sure the please any glamour girl in your life. It's full of fun, festive shades, as well as shades to transition into the spring and summer seasons. It's the gift of fab nails all year long!

3. benefit I'm Glam..Therefore I Am - $36

This is a seven-piece kit full of sweet, glowing glam, featuring a pearly pink liquid highlighter, (called Girl Meets Pearl..adorbs!), four romantic eyeshadows, cult-favorite BADgal Lash Mascara, and a bubble gum pink lip gloss. It even comes with a makeup lesson!

4. Bare Escentuals Buxom Lips Mix and Mingle - $39

First, I must say that I am addicted to the Buxom Big & Healthy Lip Polish. It's a plumping gloss with high shine, and it's infused with vitamins so it keeps your lips feeling smooth and protected. In this set, you get four minis, along with four coordinating mini lip sticks. The normal sized lip polish sells for $18, so this is definitely a great deal!

5. Josie Maran Argan Oil Infused Travel Essentials Moroccan Getaway Travel Case - $39

Let's face it, winter is filled with holiday spirit, but it also brings the harsh cold, which causes our skin and hair to dry out. Solution? Hop on a plane, and travel to Morocco.. or, well, at least check out this kit! Everyone in the beauty world surely knows the wonders of Argan Oil, and now, with this six piece kit, give it as a gift! …But I would fully understand if you decided to keep it for yourself :)

6. Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil Travel Size Set in Electric - $32

Of course I'm going to love this. It's the electric set! But in all seriousness, Urban Decay liners have such smooth, creamy application, and they last all day long. Pick up this kit for the girl who loves experimenting with color! It comes with five mini pencils; matte black, bright iridescent purple, bright fuchsia sparkle, vibrant blue shimmer, and a bright green sparkle.

7. Kat Von D Tattoo Chronicles Candelabra Edition - $49

A little pricey, yes, but this palette comes with sixteen rich, pigmented eyeshadows and a black full lash mascara. The looks that you could create with this are endless! Plus, the packaging has such a gothic romance vibe to it. Love!

8. Urban Decay Sparkling Lickable Body Powder - $20

Okay, so this isn't a gift set, but you might have someone on your naughty list that you haven't quite found the right gift for.. yet. This body powder adds a sexy, shimmering glow to skin, smells like honey, and tastes like it, too! ;)

9. fresh Sugar Fix - $22.50

This sweet set is packed full of sugar, for nourished, irresistible lips. It includes a mini sugar lip polish to gently exfoliate and condition, along with a mini sugar lip treatment with SPF 15 to protect and hydrate. Get your recipient ready to be kissed on New Year's Eve!

10. Sephora Collection Sequined Wristlet - $15

Every glamour girl needs a cute makeup bag! This little doll comes in black, raspberry and silver. It would be great to carry on it's own to stash night-on-the-town-essentials, or to hold your makeup inside a larger purse. And it's super affordable!

Xoxo,

Rachel

TUTORIAL: "A Royal Christmas"

2011-12-02T16:15:00.000-05:00

I like to call this look "A Royal Christmas". I was really inspired after seeing so many runway models wearing metallics with rich purples and bold blues, such as this one:

I decided that an exact interpretation probably wouldn't look so attractive, (on me anyway..hehe), so I wanted to put my own spin on it, and this is what I came up with. I think this is a look that would be perfect for a night out, or for holiday parties. Or, just any given time that you decide to feel like a glamorous royal ;) All products used in this video can be found below.

1. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion

2. Mark iGlimmer Illuminating Eye Color in "bronzed"

3. Bare Escentuals High Shine Eye Color in "gold medal"

4. MAC Cream Color Base in "fuschia"

5. Mark Eyeshadow in "plum velvet"

6. MAC Mineralize Eyeshadow in "young punk"

7. MAC Eyeshadow in "young thing"

8. Avon Glimmersticks Eyeliner in "majestic plum"

9. MAC Kohl Eyeliner Pencil in "smolder"

10. Urban Decay Eyeshadow in "skimp"

11. Salon Perfect "perfectly glamorous" false lashes

Thanks so much for watching!

Xoxo, Rachel

The Wednesday Wishlist.

2011-11-30T15:08:00.000-05:00

1. Sedona Lace 12 Piece Professional Makeup Brushes: I've been majorly drooling over these brushes lately. What's not to love? They're pink! Sedona Lace has wonderful quality brushes at an affordable price, i.e. a beginning makeup artist's dream! They can be found here.

2. Juicy Couture Viva La Juicy Gift Set: I've been a fan of the original Juicy Couture for years now, and I'm sad to admit that I kind of shunned their other perfumes, such as this one! But on a recent shopping trip, I tried a sample of Viva La Juicy, and after hours of the delicious scent still lingering on my sweater, I was in love. This set comes with the perfume spray, body lotion, and shower gel. I must have! Find it here.

3. Jeffrey Campbell Lita Booties: Every fashion hipster knows about Jeffrey Campbell. These Lita Booties in shades of orange are adorable, and they need to be residing in my closet. Find your own pair here.

4. Derek Cardigan Brown Tortoiseshell Eyeglasses: These frames to me are the perfect mix of nerd, sexy secretary, and with a little bit of Mad Men thrown in. Plus, my vision is pittiful, and after a recent trip to the eye doctor, these babies are not only fashionable, but will be very functional too! Find them here.

5. Evening of Effervescence Dress: This dress from Modcloth is in one of my very favorite shades. It's a lovely peachy champagne hue, and there's just something so ballroom dreamy about it. It was on sale a few days ago, and I wish I would have jumped on it then. But alas, it will live on my wishlist until I find an appropriate occasion to purchase it for. Find it here.

Happy Wednesday everyone! Hang in there..The work week is nearly over!

Xoxo, Rachel

TUTORIAL: Purple Passion.

2011-11-23T15:16:00.001-05:00

This makeup look was inspired by my love of purple. Check below for a list of products used to create it!

1. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion2. Urban Decay Eyeshadows in "zephyr", "sin", "gravity", "gun metal", and "missionary", all found in the Urban Decay Book of Shadows IV.3. Avon Big Color Eye Pencil in "eggplant".4. MAC Kohl Eyeliner pencil in "smolder".5. Urban Decay Supercurl Curling Mascara6. Ardell Glamour Lashes in "lacies".
Thanks for watching! :)Xoxo, Rachel

Our Fairytale Wedding :)

2011-11-20T17:45:00.000-05:00

I'm finally getting around to posting some pictures from the big day! Jesse and I are on cloud nine right now. We're so happy to finally be married.. :) It feels like Christmas morning every day. Cheesy, but true.

Xoxo,

Rachel

TUTORIAL: Holiday Inspired/Christmas Party Look

2011-11-17T15:17:00.003-05:00

First, please ignore my dumbface attempting to look ~model-y..hehe ;P I call this look "A Blue Christmas". But there's nothing to be sad about! Smoke up your eyes with some sultry blues, and you'll surely get kissed under the mistletoe ;) A list of all products used to create this look can be found below.

1. MAC Paint Pot in "painterly"

2. Rimmel London Eyeliner Pencil in "pure white"

3. Urban Decay Eyeshadows in "zephyr", "crystal", "gun metal", and "bust". All can be found in the Urban Decay Book of Shadows IV.

4. MAC Kohl Eyeliner in "smolder"

5. MAC ProLash Mascara in "coal black"

6. MAC Amplified Creme Finish Lipstick in "blankety"

Thanks so much for watching! Until next time..
Xoxo, Rachel

We did!

2011-11-15T00:26:00.000-05:00

Our wedding was Saturday, November 12. It was a beautiful day,

and I can't wait to get our pictures so I can share them! :)

Ahh, wedded bliss.

Xoxo,

Rachel

Tutorial: WEDDING MAKEUP! :)

2011-11-15T00:23:00.000-05:00

This is probably the most important makeup tutorial I'll ever do! Not that doing makeup is ever uber important, but still :) This is the makeup I did on my wedding day, and I think it's a beautiful, glam look for any bride to be who wants to ensure all eyes are on her! All products used are listed below.

1. Makeup Forever HD Primer

2. Makeup Forever HD Foundation in #140

3. Smashbox Camera Ready Concealer in 4.0

4. Makeup Forever HD Powder

5. MAC Paint Pot in "painterly"

6. Urban Decay Eyeshadows in "zephyr" and "skimp"

7. Avon Big Color Eye Pencil in "chocolate"

8. Urban Decay Eyeshadows in "lost" and "sin"

9. MAC Kohl Eyeliner Pencil in "smolder"

10. Sephora Eyeliner Pencil in "chocolate"

11. Ardell Glamour Lashes in "lacies"

12. Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeliner in "perversion"

13. MAC ProLash Mascara in "coal black"

14. Bare Minerals All Over Face Color in "faux tan"

15. NARS Blush in "orgasm"

16. Benefit HighBeam

17. MAC Mineralize SheerSheen Powder in "silver aura"

18. MAC Brow Set in "show off"

19. MAC Lip Liner in "redd"

20. MAC Creme Sheen Lipstick in "ravishing"

Thanks so much for watching!

Xoxo, Rachel

From Drab To Fab.

2011-11-08T22:10:00.001-05:00

A couple weeks ago, I redid my mom's hair color. I took her from a dull, dingy, lifeless dark brown with dreaded gray roots to a shiny, beautiful, radiant red :)

Perfect for the holiday season.

Once business picks up, I'll be posting a lot more before and afters. Major makeovers are especially my favorite.

Xoxo,

Rachel

About Face Friday.

2011-11-04T08:00:00.070-04:00

Today, I want to share with you a facial you can do at home, with products that you probably already have in your kitchen. Are you dreaming of glowing, smooth, acne-free skin? Say hello to this sugary sweet face treat!

Step One: Sprinkle one tablespoon of sugar into a cup or bowl.

Step Two: Add one tablespoon of honey.

Step Three: Squeeze approximately half a tablespoon of lemon juice into mixture.

Step Four: Swirl all ingredients together with a spoon.

Step Five: Wet face with a warm washcloth. This opens up your pores, allowing for better penetration of the mixture.

Step Six: Gently massage mixture all over face for a couple minutes.

Step Seven: Rinse with cool water. This helps close your pores back up, now that they're super refreshed and cleansed :)

* * * * * *

Super easy, right? And the benefits are amazing! Why, you ask?

Honey is a natural antioxidant with antimicrobial properties. It moisturizes the skin, absorbs impurities from the pores, and protects skin from sun damage. It's a great cleansing agent, and leaves your skin radiant. Sugar is a natural exfoliant. It deeply cleanses, absorbing oils and dirt from the skin, helping to prevent acne. And last, but not least, lemon. It's high in antioxidants and rich in hydroxy acids. It's also an exfoliant. It helps in getting rid of dead skin cells, brightening skin, and helps maintain skin's elasticity (which means less wrinkles when we're older!)

I can honestly say that since I've been doing this, two times a week, my skin has looked better than ever. I have normal/combination skin, with the occasional monthly breakout, and I've found it to be less oily, smoother and more radiant, and most importantly, clear and blemish-free! It's also helped with buffing away sun spots accumulated from previous tanning bed visits (terrible for you, I know! I've stopped!), and typical summer sun exposure. So what are you waiting for? Try this! You have nothing to lose and so much to gain! :)

Until next time,

Xoxo,

Rachel

TUTORIAL: Fish Tail Braid!

2011-11-03T16:16:00.004-04:00

Before I learned how, doing a fishtail braid seemed like it must be so complicated. The very first time I ever had one was actually in a parking lot one night a few years ago while hanging out with friends. One of my friends randomly decided to braid my hair, and once I saw, not only how pretty it looked, but also the simplicity, I was hooked. I since decided that everyone should know how.. just.. because :)

Thanks for watching!

Xoxo, Rachel

In Love With A Zombie

2011-10-30T19:57:00.001-04:00

"He who fights with monsters might take care lest he thereby become a monster. And if you gaze for long into an abyss, the abyss gazes also into you."

In the spirit of Halloween, Jesse and I got dressed up in our best zombie wedding gear.

Wishing you all a safe and ghoulish holiday!

Xoxo,

Rachel

Makeup Trend - Bold Lips!

2011-10-26T17:41:00.005-04:00

Bold lip color has been so prominent on the fashion runway lately. I'm a major fan! A trend that's actually wearable.. Usually runway looks are so over the top, you'd get laughed out of town, or certainly a few odd looks, (unless you're Lady Gaga, of course), if you actually tried wearing them in real life. The products used in this video are listed below.

1. MAC Satin Finish Lipstick in "MAC Red"

2. MAC Creme Sheen Finish Lipstick in "ravishing"

3. MAC Amplified Creme Finish Lipstick in "show orchid"

Thanks for watching!

Xoxo, Rachel

Back In The Saddle

2011-10-26T14:55:00.001-04:00

I've been slacking so much when it comes to my blog! I really started out on the right foot, but sometimes life gets in the way. I'm back now, and hopefully for good :) So much has been going on lately! Planning a wedding is much more stressful than I ever thought it would be. I decided yesterday to change my colors from orange, (due to not being able to find bridesmaids dresses for my sisters in time =/), to red. My initial reaction was to go into full fledged panic mode, but then I came back to earth and realized that it isn't such a bad thing. Red is beautiful and classy. Red is also much more favored by my fiance than orange. Plus, it gives me an excuse to incorporate lots of red velvet cupcakes into our dessert bar. How could I possibly complain about red in that case? :)

After the wedding, and I get settled and all moved in, things will go much smoother in the way of updates here, and hopefully on my Youtube as well. I have some really cool makeup ideas I'd love to share!

I will leave you now with some recent Instagram pics, and I promise to be back very soon!

These are from our visit to the Natural Tunnel State Park.

Anddd, these are from last weekend's roadtrip to Lexington :)

And of course, I couldn't make a post without featuring some adorable snaps of our baby :)

Until next time!

Xoxo,

Rachel

Tutorial: Autumn Eyes!

2011-10-18T21:04:00.000-04:00

When I think of autumn, I imagine the leaves. Beautiful reds, oranges, yellows, golds, and then, eventually, brown. This is a subtle spin on a smokey eye that draws from fall foliage. All of the products used are listed below.

1. MAC Paint Pot in "painterly"

2. Bare Escentuals High Shine Eyeshadow in "gold medal"

3. POP Beauty Lid Neon in orange

4. BedHead Eyeshadow in "copper"

5. Avon Eyeliner Pencil in "chocolate"

6. MAC Kohl Eyeliner Pencil in "smolder"

7. Urban Decay Eyelash Primer

8. L'oreal Voluminous Million Lashes in "carbon black"

Thanks for watching!

Xoxo, Rachel

Let Them Eat Cake..Balls.

2011-10-15T00:20:00.001-04:00

I'm so excited to say that I finally tried my hand at making cake balls! I'm addicted to the birthday cake pops at Starbucks, and I find myself frequently browsing the Bakerella site, drooling over images of perfect bite size deliciousness, so I just had to make an attempt to create them in my own kitchen. While the process was a bit time consuming, it was much easier than I had expected. I followed the recipe here, only using a white cake mix, vanilla frosting and white chocolate bark. Beyond yummy! They seem to be a big hit with my family too :) With my wedding right around the corner, there's a high chance that these little babies will make an appearance on the dessert bar. I highly recommend you give them a try! They'd be perfect for upcoming holiday parties, or even in cute boxes and gift wrap as presents. Here's to good baking :)

Xoxo,
Rachel

TUTORIAL: Clip-In Hair Extensions How To!

2011-09-16T00:09:00.004-04:00

I'll be the first to admit my addiction to clip in hair extensions. Not only have I been loving them for myself for the past three years or so, but I've also convinced many of my counterparts to purchase their very own. It's such a quick, easy way to lengthen your hair - not to mention thousands cheaper than fusion extensions, so why not give them a try?

Thanks for watching!

Xoxo, Rachel

First Post!

2011-09-11T21:09:00.002-04:00

Hello, blog world! I thought now would be an appropriate time to take the leap and make my first post. In the last week, I've celebrated my 22nd birthday, graduated cosmetology school, and gotten engaged. (Actually all on the same day..September 6, 2011! Only the most epic day ever!) It's enough to make my head spin and my heart full with so much happiness. Things are changing, and life is good, to say the very least.

Since this is my first official entry and all, I plan on keeping it short and sweet, so for now, I'll leave you with a few Instagram pics from my weekend.

Xoxo,
Rachel