Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Foundation Routine: Tips, Tricks & Products I Love!


My Foundation Routine: 
Tips, Tricks, & Products I Love!




          Hello everyone! Here it is... My bare, no makeup face! I wanted this post to be about the products I'm currently using and the tips and tricks I've learned since first starting with makeup. Now obviously everybody has different skin types so some products will work differently on some people. As for me I don't know what skin type I have anymore. As weird as it sounds I use to have dry skin and now it seems to change every few weeks. However, these products I've been using work no matter what my skin is doing that day. And if anyone wants to know, on this day in particular I was more on the oily side. 
              Another thing I can't stress enough is your skincare. To have nice looking skin with makeup on you have to have a nice canvas to start off with. Skin care products are customized for certain problem areas and skin types. Look for the labels or ask a store associate for help finding the right one! This all creates a smooth base for the foundation and other products added on. I always use a cleanser, toner, a treatment for my face, then moisturizer before applying makeup.
               While reading this I'm sure many of you will think I'm crazy for having this many steps and products just for my face makeup. However, this can be used for a night out or special occasion. I just so happen to love playing with makeup and seeing what new things I can do with it! So here are the steps I take in my daily foundation routine! Enjoy!



Step 1: The Hair

-This is very simple! I just use a head band to hold back all my baby hairs!
         


Step 2: Mixing the Foundation

-I use one pump of It Cosmetics' Your Skin but Better CC Cream, and one pump of L'oreal's True Match Lumi Foundation. I do this because I am the shade in between the two colors (and plus the consistency of the different formulas is great for my skin!).

-I put both pumps on the back of my hand first and mix it with my finger to warm up the product.





Step 3: Applying the Foundation

-Ever since I discovered the Beauty Blender I have been obsessed! It's an egg-shaped sponge that doubles in size when you add water to make it damp. I still use my favorite brushes time to time but the beauty blender is my go-to!

-To apply the foundation I just simply dip the damp sponge into the mixed foundation on the back of my hand and blot my face. It blends everything so easy and gives a great finish!

-Make sure you get under your jawline and blend!






Step 4: Concealer

-My favorite one at the moment is It Cosmetics' Bye Bye Under Eye concealer. However I use it to cover my dark circles, the redness around my nose, and any blemishes. 

- I start by putting just a dot of it on the back of my hand. Then I warm it up by rubbing it with my finger. Then I place some under both my eyes and blend it out as much as I can by patting it with my fingers. I then do the same with the sides of my nose.

-Here the beauty blender comes into play again! I make sure everything is well blended!








Step 5: Translucent Powder

-Now you might use or have seen the typical color powder foundation that will add more coverage. I have tried some, but have never really become a fan of it. With translucent powder it will help my makeup last longer throughout the day without adding another extra color to my face. I also feel the reason most people have "cake face" is from powder foundation, but again it depends on your skin type.

-I always apply this all over my face with a fluffy brush for my face and a smaller brush for under my eyes. Just lightly brush under your eyes and swirl it around everywhere else until you've covered everything. Though you have to be careful to not add too much or in pictures you will be able to see white blotches on your face. It happens! I've been in that situation before and it's not cute.

-I have been recently using the NYX HD Studio Finishing Powder. I'm going to be honest and say it's not my favorite, but it works! I'm in love with the loose translucent powder from Tarte! I just haven't been able to run out and get a new one!






Step 6: Bronzing and Contouring

-This step can be kind of tricky for some people. First let me explain the difference, bronzing is to get a nice glow while contouring is to enhance your features. I do mostly bronzing and slight contouring.

-I switch up the products but for the most part I use Benefit's Hoola Bronzer. It's matte so it can be used for both the bronzing and contouring.

-I start with contouring, and it's weird but suck in your face to make the "fish face". Use a light hand and apply the powder under your cheek bone. Make sure it's blended well. Then for the bronzing I apply it near my hairline on my forehead, and under my jawline. Just use small, light, circular motions.







Step 7: Highlighting

-The best highlighter I've ever used is this one right here! I can get enough of It Cosmetics' Hello Light Illuminating Powder! I use a fan brush and lightly brush it on the top of my cheekbones for a slight glow!








And there you have it! I finished the rest of my makeup and this is the final look! I hope this gave you guys some tips and tricks to use for your own routine! 




Tuesday, November 18, 2014

OOTD 11/17/14







Hello everyone! Here is my first fashion post and I'm so excited! This night I happened to be going out to dinner with my boyfriend but this is a great work outfit as well! Below are close ups of the outfit and links are at the end if you would like to purchase an item! Enjoy!

{ps. if any of you are on Instagram I made one where I'll be posting fun and girly pictures daily! 
Follow me @keiranicoleblog}

















Then my hot date showed up wearing a button down shirt (something he never wears)! 
So of course we had to get a picture! How cute is he?!






Where can I purchase this?
{click on store name for the link}

   Top | Loft 
Tank Top | Forever 21
Pants | Charlotte Russe (Similar Pair) 
Booties | Forever 21 (Similar Pair) 
Tote | Charming Charlie (Similar Pair)
Rings | Forever 21 (Similar Pair)
Earrings | TandJ Designs


Thank you guys so much for your support!

XOXO
  

Friday, November 14, 2014

Holiday Gift Guide 2014





Happy Friday Everyone!

First off I just want to say thank you for visiting my blog and I hope you enjoy my first post!

I know for some it's hard to believe the holidays are only a few short weeks away! Working in retail we have had gifts coming in for the past month. It's crazy, but believe it or not customers were ready to shop back then. So as you all start your shopping season, here are a range of fun gifts any girl of any age would enjoy!






Beauty Gifts


Essie Winter Cube 4 Pc Mini Nail Polish Collection ($17.00)


Click Here to Purchase

Who doesn't love to add new nail colors to their collection?  Essie is one of my favorite nail polish brands and with this winter collection you get a set of four new colors! The colors included are Jump in My Jumpsuit, Tuck It In My Tux, Double Breasted Jacket and Jiggle Hi, Jiggle Low.




Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette ($54.00)


Click Here To Purchase

This eyeshadow palette from Urban Decay is one of my favorites! I received it as a present for Christmas last year and haven't stopped using it since! It comes with 12 shadows and a dual ended makeup brush!



The Body Shop Coconut Gift Set ($20.00)


Click Here To Purchase


This festive gift is one that requires even less work with the presentation! Coming in an adorable box you will receive a Coconut Shower Cream, Coconut Body Butter, Coconut Body Scrub, Coconut Soap, and a Cream Mini Bath Lily!




It Brushes for Ulta: Your Superheroes Full-Size Travel Brush Set ($50.00)


Click Here To Purchase

I am a HUGE fan of all It Cosmetics products! Their makeup alone is some of the best I've ever used! Then once I discovered their brushes I fell in love. If you haven't ever felt them brush on your face you need to go to an Ulta now! I am determined to own the entire collection because of the amazing quality! This set right here is perfect for any makeup user, as it comes with the basic brush essentials; a powder, foundation, crease, concealer, shadow, liner and brow brush.






Fashion & Accessories Gifts


stella & dot Renegade Cluster Bracelet ($59.00)


Click Here To Purchase

This bracelet here is one loved by many fashion bloggers (and Katy Perry)! It can be worn alone or worn with a collection of stackable bracelets! It is more on the pricey side for a bracelet but one of this quality and a great brand reputation, its sure to be loved by anyone! This is definitely one of my favs!



Flannels



One of the biggest trends right now are flannels! They are perfect for a casual day or even a more sophisticated look. I've seen people with different styles wearing these and putting their own twist on it. You can find these almost anywhere at any price range!



Locked and Layered Crossbody ($12.99)




 

A great Charming Charlie's find! A cross body bag that can be use to dress up any outfit, and a great color to go with anything!  




Fun Gifts

Ashley Brooke Mugs ($23.00)


Click Here to Purchase

These mugs are a great gift for anyone! With so many options of cute sayings, you'll be sure to find the perfect one! (Check out the link above to see all the amazing holiday mugs too!)



Make Up: Your Life Guide to Beauty, Style, and Success--Online and Off 

By: Michelle Phan ($14.55)


Click Here To Purchase

This book here is one that's on top of my list! YouTube phenomenon, Michelle Phan tells her story of how she grew up with almost nothing and turned it all around with just herself, a camera, and some makeup!





Ipsy Subscription ($10/month)


Click Here To Purchase

Amazing! Just the word to describe this awesome monthly subscription. Each month the recipient of your gift giving will receive a cute bag containing 4-5 full size or deluxe size products ranging from hair care, makeup, skin care and more!