How to avoid a CAKEY face.

Alrighty ladies!  Having a thick, cakey face is no bueno!  Agreed?

I love make up and I think it's wonderful what make up can do.  However, I don't think you should ever have so much face make up on to where it looks "cakey."  EIIIK!  (sorry Katy Perry)

(unless it's Halloween or something) 

AHHHHHH!!!!   haha! 
So here are a few things I do to help avoid that "cakey" look.
It's just from my experience so I hope it's a little help to someone. 


1)  MOISTURIZE. 
     I have pretty dry skin.  My face, however, isn't as dry as the rest of my body.  There are small blotches here and there but it's not all around dry.  There are a lot of moisturizers out there for all different types of skin.  Find one that works for you.  I just recently started wearing moisturizer at night but you ALWAYS want to  put  moisturizer on before your make up.  It just helps eliminate the flaky, dry  look.  You don't want to paint a picture on a crusty canvas, right?  So if the base of your canvas is prepped, the art you put on it will be flawless.

I usually wear "Day Wear Plus" from Estee Lauder.  I accidental picked up the wrong one this last time.  This one in the picture is the regular "Day Wear."   The "Day Wear PLUS" is specifically for dry skin.

The one I have now is also working ok so no complaints there.  The only big difference I have noticed is the smell.  The Day Wear Plus moisturizer smells soooo yummy!  Like fresh cucumber or melon, although it's not a fragrance moisturizer.  It does have SPF in it, which is great. But I have heard it's not good to sleep with SPF (even though I've been doing it) but now I am on a mission to find a good moisturizer with no SPF so I can confidently moisturize while I sleep.  This is really the only  moisturizer I've ever used.  I have eczema so I'm very particular on what I put on my skin.   There are a few out there that I would like to try though.  I know MAC has a moisturizer I'm interested in and I also heard Olay is a good moisturizer.  Other than that, I use Aveeno when all else fails.  I don't know if it's good to put on your face but I always have and it's never given me any problems. 

Don't forget...MOISTURIZE MOISTURIZE BEFORE MAKE UP!  It's the #1 rule!  :)


2)  PRIME.
     To be honest with you, I don't ALWAYS prime my face.  But if you have trouble with the "cakiness" this step may help you a lot.  Priming your face before your make up is like priming a wall before you  paint the wall.  It's going to give you that smooth finish and it will help your make up stay on better.  The very first primer I've ever used was the MAC's "Prep and Prime."  It works amazingly!  After I finished my make up my face felt soooo smooth!  I love it!  However, I find that the combination of my moisturizer I use and the MAC primer don't go well together.  So sometimes I feel like I wont prime, instead I will moisturize because I feel it's far more important.  The recent primer I have been using is the "Make Up Forever's" face primer that I mentioned in my "New Year New Make Up?" blog. 

I don't find a problem with the combo of that one and my  moisturizer.  It works really well but I'm not sure if it works as well as the MAC "Prep and Prime."  I don't notice that  my skin is as smooth as when I use the MAC primer but it's definitely  not a bad choice.  Just like a lot of products, there are a lot of different face primers out there.  Those are the only two that I have experience with.  I would recommend them. 


3)  FOUNDATION and COVERAGE.
     Finding the right color for you is key!  Get matched if you are looking for a foundation.  If you go home and use it for a couple days or so and don't feel it's the right color for you, return it and try a shade up or shade down.  There is nothing wrong with that.  I can't stress the right color foundation enough.  Too white or too dark...I don't know which one is worse. 

Also, if you are being matched, ask them to apply it all over your face.  They usually just apply at the jaw line to try to match you.  But by having them apply a light layer all over your face, you will have a better idea if that color works for you or not.  Also, try to match the foundation color to your chest.  Your face is primarily a lot lighter than the rest of your body.  Don't swatch the color on your arm because your arm is usually darker than your chest and face. 

There are full coverage foundations, medium to full, and sheer foundations out there.  Don't be afraid to use a medium or sheer coverage, especially if you already have beautiful skin.  Full coverage foundations are nice because you look like a flawless doll, but it's nice to let your more natural beauty shine through.  There are times and places for a full coverage foundation, but in my opinion your every day look should be more natural. 
    
I am using the HD Make Up Forever's foundation right now and it's WONDERFUL! 

It is a full coverage but feels soooo light and natural.  So that's a good alternative if you don't want a heavy full coverage foundation.  Highly recommended.  It's so awesome.  I also talk much more about that in my "New Year New Make Up?" blog. 
     Instead of applying foundation with a sponge, maybe try a stippling brush for a lighter coverage.  This is the 187 from MAC. (it's dirty lol)

The bristles on the brush help blend nicely without too much product being put on your face. 


4)  POWDER
     Try setting your foundation with a pad or sponge/pad instead of a brush.  You don't have to put heavy powder all over your face. Sometimes that will make you look chalky.  Just concentrate on the oily areas like your T-zone. 

I don't have any make up in this picture but wanted to give you guys more of an idea where to dab your powder.  I look crazy I know...hahaha

Just lightly dab a small amount on your for head, your nose, chin and a little under your eyes.  Using the same pad WITHOUT adding more product, just lightly pat it over the rest of your face.
If you are using a full coverage foundation, use a sheer powder rather than a full coverage powder.  But if you are using a sheer foundation, it's ok to use a fuller coverage powder.  Like I said, this is just my opinion but I really feel it helps a lot!  


5) FINISHING SPRAY
     I was introduced to the MAC Fix+ finishing spray about 4 years ago.  It was suggested by one of the MUA to help keep your make up on after everything is applied. 

I feel like it gives a nice dewy finish to your skin.  I do like this spray, however I don't wear it every day.  I'm actually out...ironically...lol.  But if you feel you have trouble keeping and setting your make up, this product may be a good choice for you.  It's like a light, misty spray so 2 or 3 sprays are plenty. 

Well these are the couple of things that I really focus on to prevent a thick, cakey face.  As I said before, I'm not a professional and I don't know the professional advice or real knowledge about these kind products.  My make up isn't always perfect but these are just things I have learned and picked up along the way.  I think that skin care is where it starts to avoid the "cakey" face.  That's why of all these things MOISTURIZING is definitely the focal point.  Taking care of your skin can be hard but there are really great products out there to help with that.  Sometimes products may be a little pricey but it is worth it if it works for you.   

Some people are blessed with nice skin and others may have to battle it out a little more.  Whatever it is, I hope everyone finds things and a routine that work for them and I really hope I helped at least the tiniest bit.  I know it's probably really basic but I just thought I would share. 

Thanks for stopping by!  Have a GREAT WEEKEND!

Neutrally Chic and Sophisticated.

Hey everyone!  First I want to say a big "THANK YOU" for even taking time out of your day and stopping by to check out my blog.  It seriously means a ton to me!  So from the bottom of my heart...Thank you!  :)

Last week I was out in about at some of the stores and the mall.  I wasn't looking for anything in particular, THANK GOD! (when I go shopping looking for something specific I usually am disappointed and end up leaving empty handed)...Anyway...  :)

I thought I would put a few pieces together and do a "Look of the Day" blog.  I know a lot of people do and "Outfit of the Day" but I like the sound of "LOOK of the Day" better.  Because it's a collective whole look???...hmm...I hope you enjoy!

I apologize for the pictures...I'm in the moving process so a lot of my things are in storage.  I don't have my full length body mirror here so I just took these in my bathroom.  haha...bare with me. 

I purchased this white blazer at FOREVER 21 for about $32.  I didn't want to spend that much but I ended up really liking this one.  I would rather spend a little more on something I really like rather than spend a little less on something I just kind of like. 

Underneath the blazer I wore a gray cotton, buttoned up shirt, detailed with jeweled buttons and bows.

You can wear the blazer buttoned or opened...totally your preference.  I probably would wear it open because I love the shirt I have on under and would like for it to show.

 

I got this shirt from FOREVER 21 a few years ago.  Under that shirt I just wore a lengthy black tank top to show layers. 

While I was out that day, I went to a boutique here in town where I live called "Chloe's."  I got these jeans there for $38, I think!  They are the most comfy jeans I own.  They are just a blue jean, very light weight.  They are 27% polyester and 2% spandex and 71% cotton.  The brand is "Celebrity Pink Jeans."   I REALLY love them because I feel that you can wear them comfortably even in the summer because they are so light and the material is a little cooling.  LOVE!

I decided to wear these taupe colored boots I got from MARSHALL'S.  They were on sale for only $18!  I freaking LOVE MARSHALL's!!! 

They are Anne Michelle boots.  I got these a couple weeks ago and they are pretty high but soooo comfortable.  I actually wore these for N.Y.E. and they didn't bother me at all while I was out.  My very favorite thing about these boots are the grips on the bottom.

Besides comfort, GRIP is the #1 thing I look for when I get shoes, especially heels.  I think a good grip on a shoe actually coordinates with the comfort of a shoe.  I didn't have to worry about walking on hard wood floor or tile...I could walk down a ramp just fine in these...If it was raining I wouldn't worry about slipping or falling (which I totally have done before haha)...The grips are phenomenal.  I can't rave about it enough!  LOVE these boots and you can't beat the price on them either. 

Like I said, sorry I didn't have a full length mirror to actually show my look from head to toe.  :(
I'll have to go grab my mirror soon!

You could also wear another shoe of your choice if you'd like.  I just decided these boots because I just got them and it was a little chilly today so I thought it was appropriate for the season and weather (although it's been very nice outside.)  But if you prefer a peep toe shoe, that works also.  Or a pair of pumps.  I would probably stick to a nude or black colored shoe.  The outfit is a pretty neutral look.  It's very chic and clean so that's why I would stick to those options.  

The only accessory I decided to wear was this ribbon, tied necklace I got at Rue 21.  The quality of it doesn't feel as good as I normally would like it to be but I liked the concept of the piece so I got it.  I don't remember how much it was but it was definitely under $10.

 

What's cool about this style necklace is that you can wear them at various lengths.  Any adjustable necklace is a plus!

I also love the color of this necklace.  It's a very

peachy, pinky nude.  I feel like you can wear it with almost anything.  It would also be great to wear this with a backless shirt with your hair up to show the tie of the bow in the back.  I think that would be super cute and it shows kind of an elegant flow.  I love bows.  They are so girly and fun.  :)

If you wanted you could definitely wear earrings. 

I decided not too because the necklace and the jewels on the shirt are already so "bling bling."  But I like different options so if you do decide to wear earrings I suggest just small studs of any short.  Nothing too dangley.

I decided to just throw my hair in a  big, loose ballerina bun.  It's so quick and easy and I feel balances out the outfit.  It's pretty sophisticated but you can also messy it up even more for a more casual look. 

All you need is a good hair tie and a couple of bobbi pins.  Oh, and just a tad of hairspray to keep those baby hairs back and tucked.  :)

I didn't leave my hair down because I thought it would take away from the necklace and the blazer itself.  I have pretty long hair so I thought putting it up would be a better choice. 

I didn't put much make up on today, especially because my allergies have been totally acting up.  Kept it pretty natural like normal.  Just a light brown eye shadow and a little bronzer and light blush.  Less make up may look better for this particular look anyhow.  Just my opinion.  :)

OK OK!  I got a little desperate to try to get the shoes in with the whole outfit and do, soooo...

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I propped my leg  up onto my sink and took a few pictures.  LOL!  I'm pretty tall anyways so it wasn't too big of a challenge to get my leg up there. "A" for effort!  haha!...I hope it kind of gives you a better idea of what everything together looks like.  Super sophisticated in these last pictures right?  haha! 

Once again, THANK YOU so much for checking out my blog!!!  If you guys want to see more of something in particular, feel free to ask or suggest anything.  Comments below or e-mail are always welcomed.  I'm pretty new at this so suggestions are totally cool. 

HAVE A BEAUTIFUL AND AWESOME DAY!

and THANKS again!

<3,

Alice

That's CLUTCH!

Hello EVERYONE!  Sorry I have been away for way too long.  Happy FRIDAY to all.  :)

So I was at the mall today in a shoe store "shi by JOURNEYS" and couldn't find a good pair of shoes that I "needed".  Instead, I made my way to their small purse section.  Sure enough, I came across this clutch!

An off white studded and jeweled clutch.  It was $25...but I loved it so I bought it.  It also comes with a silver chain so I can carry it as a regular purse, which is pretty cool.  The only thing that I'm kind of worried about is the studs and jewels staying on.  I've had an experience with a cheaper clutch I got that also had studs on it and they were falling out all through out the night!  Yikes!  Hopefully this one will tough it out like a champ.

Here is a close up of the studs and stones.  (Sorry for the color difference in the 2 pictures, I took one in my room with sucky lamp lighting and I took the other one in my kitchen)   :)

I love how it's kinda classy but edgy at the same time.  I've really been into studs lately, just like the Same Edelman heels.  This clutch is super cute, I think it's also very versatile.  You can wear it up or down.  With a dress or just jeans and a t-shirt. 

This is just what I had on for the day but I think it even still works with my blue pants and grey top.

Anyways, while we are on the topic of clutches...I think every woman needs a clutch.  I know we all love our big purses but there's something about the sophistication of a clutch that I love.  No matter what color or size, definitely get a few for options, especially for when you are out in about.  No one wants a big purse  hanging on their shoulder while they are out.  Or you shouldn't have to worry about what you are going to do with your purse if you want to hit up the dance floor.  You could always bring it with ya but then it just looks like you're dancing with your purse.  haha...

Just grab a clutch before you head out, put a few essentials in there and you're good to go.  It's small enough to where it doesn't get in the way and big enough to put a few things in there, such as your keys, lipstick or lip gloss, your driver's license or I.D., even your phone.  A zipper on the inside is a MUST for clutches.  You don't want to have to worry about any of your things slipping out.  Some clutches come with a little sling bracelet and some don't.  Some people really prefer the sling because it feels more secure on their wrist but it really doesn't bother me if it doesn't have one.  It's totally what you prefer. 

If you don't have a clutch, a good neutral color is a safe way to go.  Get a black or tanned colored clutch.  Pick a color that will go with anything and everything.

These are just my few favorites.  I have a few neutral ones and a few that are kinda funky and colorful. 

Anyways, after finding my new favorite clutch, I just thought I would share with you guys what I found and why I love clutches!  Feel free to share any of your favorite things with me.  I would love to hear about them.  :)

HAVE A BEAUTIFUL FRIDAY.

 <3,

ALICE



New year...New MAKE UP?

HAPPY TWENTY-12 to EVERYONE!  I hope you all had a fabulous NYE night and got to your destinations safely.  Whatever it was you were doing, hopefully it was full with LOVE and FUN.  :)

I wanted to share with you guys a new product or products that I have just been using for a few days now.  I have heard great things about this product and wanted to try it out.  It's "Make Up Forever"'s High Definition Foundation. 

So when I went to Sephora looking for the foundation, my only intention was to buy the foundation and the foundation only.  Of course we all know that plans don't always stick and when you are in Sephora you want to buy everything!...right?  ;)
They actually have a really good package deal for a pretty darn good cost.  It's Make Up Forever's HD Complexion Starter Kit for $79, which includes the foundation itself, which is $40 alone.  It also comes with a high definition face primer, a high definition powder and a Kabuki brush. 

If you go in looking for it, this is what the box kit looks like.

and these are the products!  Yaaaay!

The FACE PRIMER works pretty well.  If you choose to wear a face primer (I don't all the time) apply the primer after your moisturizer and before you apply your foundation.  The only other primer that I have used is the face primer from MAC, which I love.  I'm not too sure which one I like more yet.  I went without using a primer for a while so it's not fresh in my mind.  But it does have a very soothing feel to it and really does help enhance the long lasting wear of your make up. 

I really like the FOUNDATION.  It comes with a little pump, and that's great because I feel like it minimizes waste of the foundation.  It's really lightweight so it doesn't feel or look like you have a ton of  make up on, which is a total thumps up!  It is a full coverage foundation, but it feels very light.  The couple of times that I have used it, I only used 1 pump of the foundation and it covers my whole face.  The first time I tried it on I used my fingers....the 2nd time I used it I used a stippling brush.  I didn't see too much of a big difference in the two.  Maybe if you want a more dramatic look for going out or a party, you can try 2 pumps for even more coverage.  :)

The POWDER is a micro finish powder.  It doesn't give off a color or anything.  It's more for just setting your foundation.  It also eliminates that sticky feeling after foundation, instead, it feels very silky and smooth.  (awesome possum!)  I LOVE IT!  So maybe if you have trouble keeping your foundation on all day or if you are going somewhere and don't want to be constantly touching up your face, the powder might be a good choice for you.  I wear it to work and I work in a food environment and at the end of the day I think my face make up still looks pretty darn good.  :)

The Kabuki BRUSH is fabulous.  It's nylon fiber and feels AH-mazing.  I use the Kabuki brush to apply the powder.  Or you could use the brush for any other powders.  It's just cool that it comes in the kit because alone, brushes can run up to $40. 

I really don't know the difference between a regular face powder brush and a Kabuki brush to be honest.  I don't even know if there is a difference.  But the Kabuki brush is super cute because it's itty bitty. :)  And it's a plus that it works really well! 

So with everything that this kit comes with, I think it's a really awesome deal.  I don't know how long they are going to have this kit so if you are interested in Make Up Forever, I definitely recommend that you go get this kit. I got this kit maybe 4 or 5 days ago so I'm sure they will still have it.  It will give you some of the basic products that you will need to apply your face make up. 

My lighting totally sucked but you can see that it's a very natural feel.  It doesn't look like I packed layers and layers of make up on but I have enough to even out my skin tone without too much application.  I just wore this natural, nude look to work.  It's definitely very much an "every day" look.  The blush I am wearing is a light pinky, shimmery color from MAC called "Gentle."  It's my favorite right now.  And for my lips I just did a pinky/nude lip liner from Victoria's Secret that I also bought on sale in a kit.  I don't know what the color is called but I LA LA LOVE it!  I just went over my lips with that liner and topped it off with a pinky gloss.  :)

If you guys have any questions or comments, suggestions... feel free to leave them below.  The only way to really see what make up works best for you is to try different ones until you find one you like and feel is compatible for you.  As far as I'm concerned, Make Up Forever is a very great quality brand make up.  I, myself, am just starting to explore with different brands, (I usually just wear MAC) and although I do get nervous, finding products like these are what makes it totally worth it. 

Have a fabulous day!  Be positive and start off your new year  with nothing but positive vibes. Thank you for stopping by and checking this blog out.   

<3

Alice