Are you wearing M.A.C?


I recently ran out of my M.A.C foundation, and honestly didn't feel like going into re up. The good thing is that I keep a few back up foundations just in case. Ever since I've been wearing my Revlon Colorstay liquid foundation in caramel, I've received endless compliments. The question is usually, "Are you wearing M.A.C?" 


Nope! However Revlon has absolutely wonderful coverage. A little goes a long way.  If you're looking for a reliable, no fuss product, this is it. I love it. I'll eventually venture back into other brands, but I'm all stocked up on my caramel crack for now. 

Xo,

Keishy

New brushes: Sonia Kashuk


Target is one of my favorite stores ever. It doesn't matter if I just go in to pick up cleaning supplies, I still come out with something beauty related. I'm addicted to finding new products for less, and that's just it. Sonia Kashuk is a premium like of makeup products that Target offers. For years I've walked up and down the aisle and nothing ever really caught my eye enough to purchase. However, I was in serious need of a eyeshadow blending brush. Earlier that day I went into Sephora and experienced horrible customer service. I mean, horrible to the point that I never plan on shopping there again. Needless to say, I didn't end up buying the brushes I planned on. 

I came across this cute little crush gift at Target.  It came equipped with blush, foundation, blending, smudge and eye liner brush, and it was all $14.99. 

The brushes are so soft and work incredible. I'm looking to build my kit, so pricey brushes are not in my view right now. These babies work really beautifully, and I see a huge change in my makeup application. Defintely worth the coins AND they are pretty to look at. Win, win.

Xo,

Keishy 

Ben Nye Review - Part One

became an instant fan of Ben nye last year when I learned that one of my favorite beauty girls, Kim Kardashian swears by the brand's luxury powder in "Banana." It's a staple in the makeup kit of just about any makeup artist out there. Well, today I'm not here to talk about the banana powder, we all know how wonderful that works as a highlighter! There's so much more to be discovered. 



Having the ability to drive literally a mile down the street from my house and purchase these products from my local theatrical store makes the deal even sweeter. Ben Nye products have been around forever, and if you're looking for affordable, long lasting, durable makeup then please pay attention. 

1. Cake foundation in mocha java $11.00

The beauty in Ben Nye products is that there is something for everyone. If you're one of those people who find it hard to match your shade, look no further. The cake foundation is sort of amazing. It's almost so perfect that I didn't want to share my newfound love with anyone. But, I adore my reader's and want all of us to look fabulous. To get the most usage out of the cake foundation, it's best to apply a bit of water to your sponge. The foundation is water activated, and you'll run the risk of looking chalky if not. Once applied, be sure to work quickly, and if needed apply more water directly to the product, or the sponge (whichever works best for you.) For my dry skin gals, don't fret! Hydrate as normal and you shouldn't run into any issues. I found this to be long lasting and the coverage was absolutely flawless. It's worth ever penny! 



2. Finish Seal spray $5.50

Y'all are going to love me for this one. Let's reiterate the fact that Ben Nye products are made for the stage, which means it'll work awesome for the ladies who need their makeup to withstand hours on hours. I've been looking for the perfect finishing spray for so long. I'm a baller on a tight rope type of budget, so there's no need for me to purchase a pricey spray that I'll be scared to use In fear that I'll have to dish the cash out often. I used this once on Girl's night out this past Friday. It has a minty smell, and goes on a bit stickey then dries out for a silky matte finish. I spayed it on around 9pm and my face was just as in place at 3am when I finally washed the makeup off and made it to bed. I'M A FAN FOREVER. 


I have so many other products from the beloved brand to review, but I have to give it to you in doses. Greatness. 

Xo,  

Keishy 

Soft & Simple

Face of the day.

There are so many times that I hesitate on even using my products, because I'm usually sitting at my desk for hours at a time talking to clients. What's the point of putting in the time and effort for pretty much no reason? Well, I have so many new items that I need to review. (and the only way to do that would be to USE THEM! ) So here's my FOTD :)



I'm working on buying a new camera, so that my photos will be crisp and clear! *crosses fingers*

Xo,

Keishy

Heroine

was never lucky enough to get my hands on M.A.C's HEROINE when it was first released. It was once just a limited edition, sold out lippie. Somehow the makeup gawds got it together and decided it was time to make this a permanent staple! My fiancĂ© was sweet enough to purchase this as one of my Christmas gifts. I was ecstatic to say the least. I was so proud of him knowing the he actually listens when I'm talking about my beauty dream list sometimes. Hehe. 


I really LOVE this shade so much. 

It complements my brown skin tone and pops. It's a traditional matte lipstick with a very silky finish. (Sorry for the quality of the picture) but my camera was on it's worst behavior. All in all, it's a winner. 

Xoxo,

Keishy 

Smokey eye + Nude lip


Face of the day.

I had to work on Christmas, but I didn't want to look how I really felt! So, I decided to put on a bit of makeup to save the day. Usually a smokey eye is reserved for night's out, but I was in the mood so why not. 



Products used:

Eyes:
Ardell lashes 
Naked palette 2
NYX kohl liner

Lip:
NYX matte cream lippie

Face:

Revlon Colorstay concealer
Revlon Colorstay foundation 

Xo, Keishy


Reader Mail: I need Winter skin care tips!

One of my lovely readers contacted me on Facebook about possibly doing a post on Winter skin care tips. The official start of the freezing season is in less than a week, but depending on which part of the world you live in, you've probably been experiencing the effects already. Everyone has their own individual skin type, which is why my tips will be very broad and hopefully useful to all. Although I absolutely adore the winter time for many reasons: Holiday cheer, season's changing, and the enchanting world of fashion, I'm not fond of how my skin sometimes reacts. Even if you don't suffer from dry skin year round, I think we can all agree on the toll winter takes during these few, yet crucial months. Read on to check out my tips! 


1. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! With the change of the weather should bring a slight shift in your skin care regimen. In other words, up the ante! I tend to opt for thicker, oil based creams to seal the deal. I like to use Pond's cream. It's only $5.99 and works very well.
2. Do not stop using sunscreen. I can't express how important this is. If you want to preserve your sexy, do it. Just because the temperature is lowered doesn't mean the sun goes into hiding. Protect yourself.
3. Before you even consider purchasing that new lippie that you've been eyeing, girl exfoliate those lips! Make sure that your pout game is on point at all times. I like to make a homemade concoction that has always gotten me by. I usually mix a bit of olive oil and sugar into a small bowl. Then, apply the mixture to your lips using a toothbrush or a washcloth gently scrub away the dead skin. Viola, magic! Always remember to keep lip balm in your handbag. Licking your lips doesn't help, leave that to Mr. Cool J. Sugar scrub. If you're not into homemade mixes, CVS has a great scrub available (pictured below $12.99). 
4. Give your hands extra loving during this time. I mean, what's the pint of having well manicured nails without proper care. I really love Vaseline's cocoa body gel. It keeps my hands soft and the scent is lovely.
5. Drink water. I get it, I get it! You love Starbucks, coffee and liquor, but those drinks won't make you beautiful. We're all supposed to drink 8 glasses of water a day. Sometimes we fall short of glory, but water will take care of your skin in the most natural, organic way possible. Just keep some on hand throughout the day. Sip, sip!
Sidenote: I don't recommend this for everyone, but I swear by Vaseline. My auntie (in my head) Tyra Banks is the reason why I've used it all these years. After my nightly shower, I slather it on, by the time I hit the shower in the morning it's had time to settle in. From there I just pull a Brian McKnight and repeat steps 1-6. Hehe. Don't say I never gave you anything! Happy Holidays to all.

Style Served: Tamara

It's not tough for a celebrity starlet to always be well groomed from head to toe. They have access to the greatest Fashion designers, makeup artists, stylists, and overall top notch glam squads.  It's even more impressive when I see an everyday woman with a fabulous sense of style. Being able to stand out in a world where everyone seems to look alike, and maintain your own identity is easier said than done. 

I had the chance to catch up with one of my favorite fashion girls, Tamara. I wanted to get the inside scoop of what goes on in that beautifully coordinated brain. 
 
 
1. If you could snag the entire wardrobe from any film character in history, who would it be? Why?

Holly Golightly who Audrey Hepburn played in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. She’s a classic…it’s just something about all black…stylish.
 2. What's your fashion pet peeve?
I know this is about fashion but one of my biggest “fashion” pet peeves is when the hair and makeup doesn’t compliment or “go with” the outfit. Hair and makeup can really make or break an outfit. If I’m going for a certain look, I have to go all out…if I’m going for a casual, street look, I’ll rock a messy bun…if I’m wearing all black, a nice, winged eyeliner and a bold lip should do the trick…I’m so obsessed with my hair and makeup flowing with my outfit that I’ve changed my hair and makeup three times in one day because I had 3 events I was attending and I wore a different look to each one…insane, I know!





3. All time favorite item in your closet?
My tan Minnetonka suede fringe boots…I rock them all year long in every season…I would wear them every day with every outfit if I could…they’re so cute and comfy.


4. You're going on an impromptu trip to New York City for a day, what would be your outfit of choice?
This was a super fun question!
Black, high-waist leather shorts, an off white button up, black ankle strap pumps with a neon clutch…add a silver statement necklace…maybe even short and sassy neon nails to match my clutch…I love little pops of color with black and white!


5. What's the one item that you'll never let go of no matter how much the times change?
Pantyhose/Stockings – I’ve been wearing them since I was five and although I outgrew them for a while and thought they were so horrible and itchy as a kid, I’m surprised, now, at how pantyhose can instantly make an outfit classy if worn right…they’re not too bad either when you’ve forgotten to shave your legs...throw on a panty hose similar to your skin tone along with some baby oil and your legs will look super smooth and shaven!

6. Do you think dressing for your body type is as important as being free and comfortable?
I believe dressing for your body type is very important and it also goes hand in hand with being free and comfortable. I love being fashionable but I must be comfortable too!...It’s all about knowing what works for your body. You can still wear some of your favorite pieces but you may have to go the extra mile to make it work for you. For instance, I love shift dresses but I’m not a curvy girl…if I don’t wear some sort of skinny belt with a shift dress, I’ll end up looking like a rectangle so to add the appearance of curves, I add a skinny belt…that way, not only have I accentuated my waistline but I’ve also accessorized with a super cute skinny belt!

7. What's the worst fashion mistake you've ever made?

Remember those colored, plastic bangles sold exclusively at the beauty supply store?...lol…I would wear a blouse with 10 colors in it and I would have to wear 10 bangles to match each color in my blouse…oh the horror!...remember, less is more!


8. Top 3 style icons?
Kourtney, Kim, and Khloe. How ironic!...not really…note:  Kourtney takes the cake at #1.


9. Who is your favorite designer?
Prabal Gurung…I love how he uses colors and prints…even his solid colored pieces are still very bold, edgy and fashion forward…his designs are such a statement!...and you can find Prabal Gurung in Target too…affordable style…I love!





10. Have you ever considered a full on career in fashion styling? Do you have a passion to dress others?

Although I love putting pieces together for myself, I think it takes a special gift and talent to have a career in fashion styling when it comes to styling others. I’ve watched so many make over shows where a stylist wanted to re-vamp a person’s look but the person wasn’t open to it so stylists must have a great amount of patience. I am looking forward to dressing my future husband and children.


















Xoxo, 

Keishy

Snatched: Beyonce Carter

My girl Beyonce surprised, shocked, and almost caused me to faint at Midnight when she decided to release her very first visual album.  With 14 songs, 17 videos and countless hours to listen to and watch the beauty that is Mrs Carter, fans will be pleased for months to come. I haven't had the chance to completely listen to the album, but what I do know is that she has so many amazing beat downs in the new videos that will become the attempted looks of many women worldwide, including myself. The holiday season is in full swing, which means there are various parties to attend with faces that have to be snatched for dear life. I found a look that I love from her video, "Haunted". Not everyone can properly pull off a bold eye AND an equally brilliant lip. And I think we can all agree with saying, SHE DID THAT.


I love a dramatic face. For this look, I would definitely keep my face toned down, with only BB cream, a bit of highlighting, and subtle blush. However, the eyes are where it's at! This look is so beautiful because her makeup artist played the hell out of her eye shape. And it's all about making what you have pop. I will definitely be pulling out the Naked Palette 2, along with kohl liner, and absolutely no fake lashes. All I need is my eyelash curler, and two bomb coats of a great mascara. Although you all already know (after my many mentions) that I live for a matte lip, there is something so sexy about how her lipstick has an extra gloss to it. It helps to set off the androgynous appeal. 

When I try this for my Christmas party next week, I'll make sure to post the results.




Xoxo, 

Keishy

Beauty Bakerie Review.

I've been searching for the perfect purple lipstick for a long time. I once found a beautiful lavender lippie by Revlon that I used for awhile until they discontinued the shade, but i still needed a vibrant matte finish to add to my collection. That's why I was so excited when I came across THE BEAUTY BAKERIE. All of their shades are just so beautiful! The lipstick below is "Berry Biscotti". It's $14.99 a pop. And if you're willing to shell out that amount, or simply just want to read my thoughts on my newest favorite, here we go..




About a month ago I decided to place an order. Sure, I have shades of purple, but not this lovely color. It was so pretty that I just had to have it! Ok? The lipstick goes on super smooth with a lighter matte finish. It isn't a retro matte, but it stays in perfect place. When reviewing any item,  I like to wear the product for at least 5 hours before I can give an honest opinion on it. I loved the way the lipstick stayed in for 3 straight hours, I only reapplied because I started taking selfies. No, really I started snapping photos and needed that extra re-up. I sipped coffee, took a cat nap, and even gave my daughter a million kisses. "Berry Boscotti" was in it for the long run!  I'm always a bit on the reserved side when it comes to non traditional lippies. At the end of the day, I never want to look TOO extra, silly or clowinsh. I thoroughly enjoyed this particular color. I'll definitely pull this out a lot more during the spring/summertime.







Xoxo, Keishy 

Coffee Break: Beauty Bakerie

Today we will be speaking with Cashmere. She is the owner of her very own makeup line, Beauty Bakerie Cosmetics. If you're interested in seeing what she has cooking up, read on.
1. Being an entrepreneur is a challenge in itself. However, being a young, black, female boss is even more groundbreaking. What has been your recipe for success?
 
I’d say it’s a combination of divine ingredients with the primary being charitable efforts; giving back is near and dear to me.

2.What would be your advice for someone looking to start a business of their own? I’m contacted quite often by people who are excited to embark on their first business venture.

I’d first suggest praying on it and then educate yourself and immerse yourself into your craft. Make mistakes as all of this will become the framework and foundation from which they’ll be able to build and expound upon. If you find that you cannot pursue the said passion all day, every single day, if you find you get tired of it, move on to the next dream. Don’t stop dreaming.

When did you create Beauty Bakerie?
 
I created the company in 2011 at 26 years old.
4.Tell us about the process of of choosing shades and formulas for your brand. (Of course without going into the intimate details). Did you have creative control over the process?

My initial plan was to have collections of the traditional hues and pigments. After researching the market and trends, I decided to extend the length of our current collection due to its popularity amongst our customers. I do hold creative control over the process yet its shared, because its so fun, I’ve invited friends, family and even held contests involving the customers in on the process.
5. How important is branding when going into a business venture?
 
Its really important to brand. It’s vital to identity and ultimately credibility. Becoming distinct in all aspects of the business, all the way down to packaging and communicating with customers.
6.What level would you like to see your company flourish to in the next five years?
 
Retail placements and speaking engagements. I want to speak to people. I want to help them.
 

7. You're a beautiful woman with a flawless complexion. How do you maintain on a daily basis?

Why thank you, Suga. I swear by Neutrogena Naturals night cream. I put it on at night: all over my face and neck. I actually suffer from acne from time to time so I use this Sulfur Mask by Acne Free a couple times per week. Since it is drying, I make sure to add moisture with the night cream. I also drink tons of water and exercise 3 times per week.

8.What's our favorite Fall makeup look using only Beauty Bakerie products only?
 
You're  making it tricky now. I’ve never been able to declare one of my lippies as my favorite.

 I guess I’d say a smoky eye with Pinkberry and Cocoa Éclair iBatters . For the lips, I’d do an ombre with Cranberry Bites and Kiss My Ice Cake Pop Lippies.

Below: Cranberry bites lipstick $14.00



Cocoa Eclair ibatter $8.00 







9.What are you best selling items that the ladies just cant resist?
 
They can’t live without any of it! It’s really cool to see the trends change. They used to go crazy over Birthday Cake during the summer, they went crazy over Cranberry Bites coming into Fall and now that fall is wrapping up, they’re all crazy about Berry Biscotti and Golden Crème Brulee. They’re crazy about the Will You Berry Me iBatter and Pinkberry. They’re always crazy about the Sugar Lip Scrub.

Birthday cake $14.00


Sugar lip scrub $14.00



     


10.Name three beauty products that you cannot live without?
 
I can’t live without the Sugar Lip Scrub! Sometimes, I’m so busy and I’m kinda OC about my lips but if I apply that at night my lips stay hydrated for several days without a reapplication.


11.Are there any celebrities, or other companies that have inspired you in the business realm?
 
I’m inspired daily by many people. I’m mostly inspired by those whose background wasn’t optimal or conducive to becoming an entrepreneur yet they overcame the adversity. For example, I was a teenage mother. I’ve earned several degrees, am raising my daughter and living my dream.

 

12.Any last minute comments that you would like to add?
 
I landed into my hometown tonight and the first thing that happens is my daughter comes and says, “Mom, I found something about you.” I had no idea what she was referring to. She runs downstairs and back up to me again and hands me a newspaper article. I was featured in 1998 as an eighth grader. Why? Of course it was about makeup. This is my passion. Thank you for being interested in my story. And as I tell everyone, check your breasts! #SaveTheTatas


Thank you for taking the time out to speak to us today. We defintely appreciate it!!

Check out: 

Beautybakerie.com for purchases!

Follow @beautybakerie for the latest updates on new products.


Stay tuned for my review on one of the brand's best selling lippies! 

Xoxo, Keishy 

Khroma With The Kardashians

                           

When I first heard that the Kardashian sister's would be debuting a new beauty line labeled, Khroma, I was not shocked at all. Regardless of how you may feel about the curvy trio, the first thing that comes to mind when I think of them are how glamorous, fresh faced, and on point they are at all times. Even in the midst of adversity they absolutely never miss a step. Creating a makeup line is actually one of the smartest business moves for them in my humble opinion. 

For my 30th birthday, my great friend Kimmy gave me a gift card to my favorite store, ULTA. The first items that caught my eye were on the flashy KHROMA display. I decided to take a chance and see if this line was worth it. Most of their items were moderately priced for the working woman, so that was a definite bonus. There was huge selection to choose from. I ended up opting for items that I needed to add to my collection, and one bonus pick. 


I purchased: 

Stroke of Midnight- mascara $9.99 


                   

I was pleasantly surprised at how much I actually loved the mascara. I've become so accustomed to faux lashes when I want a glam look. I don't have naturally lush lashes, and i'm so obssessed with the full, thick, doll esque look. After applying two coats of "stroke of midnight" my lashes had such life to them! I can see myself wearing this on a daily basis.


Spiked faux eyelashes $6.99


I chose the lashes that reminded me most of Kim K. I will say this, I definitely had no issue with getting these babies to lay properly. The lash band was quite thick, and went on super easy! However, for the price I will stick with my $1.99 beauty store strip lashes for now. Hey, call me cheap if you will, but if it's not broke don't fix it. 


Endless Summer Bronzer: $15.00.


Can I start off by saying,  this was the best bronzer ever! I had it for all of two days before the compact shattered in my makeup bag right along with my feelings.  Ok, now that the bad news is out of the way lets get to the good stuff. I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of this bronzer. It has a lightweight feel, not super shimmery, and quickly became a product that can become a staple in one's daily routine. Worth every dime!

Overall, I am so proud of The Kardashians. The brand keeps up with the best of them. I'm looking purchasing more from this line in the future!

Xoxo, Keishy

Snatched: Better late than never

When I was younger, I loved pink lipstick. It was the only color that my mom would let me wear in high school. And I took full advantage of every opportunity to rock it. As I grew older my love for pink lipstick had diminished quite a bit. I prefer a deeper, darker shade these days. 

Years ago Lady Gaga partnered up with M.A.C to release viva glam lipstick in Gaga. I'm nowhere near being a huge fan of the poker face singer, so being here for this launch wasn't a top priority. And we already know that if it's not a retro matte finish, there's not much left to impress me. I like what I like. 




This past weekend I took a mini road trip with my mom and daughter. We had every intention on making it the best girl day ever, and that's exactly what it turned out to be. We stumbled up this hidden gem in the form of a makeup store. The part that brought me to my knees was the fact that all of my favorite brands were available at a discounted rate. I'm talking about everything from M.A.C, Bobbi Brown, Smashbox, Clinique and so much more! 



Eeeeeeek! With being so overwhelmed, I stuck close to the M.A.C section this go around. I ended up finding and purchasing items that I probably would have overlooked in the retail store. I'll be posting bits and pieces of my purchases as they make it to the selected Giving face postings. 

Now let's get back to GAGA! 




It's rare that I would love a pink lippie this much, but it's just so beautiful on. The texture, consistency, and finish makes me feel so feminine. Every day/night will not be a vampy affair, and I have to constantly remind myself of that. 






What do you gals think? 

Xoxo, Keishy

M.A.C Giveaway Results!

Congratulations to the winner of our contest, Shakira! :) I hope you enjoy your new shade "fixed on drama" from the Retro Matte Collection. I will contact you with shipping details. Happy Holidays!


Xoxo, Keishy