Happy belated Valentine's Day?

This is embarrassing.

I said that I was going to do a Valentine's Day post on Valentine's Day; I had done a look in advance and everything. And yet here we are, four days later, you shaking your head at me, me looking pitiful. I'm supposed to be doing better in 2018.

I think the problem is that I did the look in advance for ahem reasons (which is funny because I didn't even use the look for what I wanted to use it for anyway) so there was no urgent need to do the blog post. I should've done the blog post that same day and just saved it, but it's neither here nor there now. 

See, for your forgiveness, I was supposed to give you two looks with details, but I seem to have deleted the details for one of the looks I had done, and therefore can't post it because I haven't the slightest idea of what I used. I'm gonna deactivate this blog after this post.

 

This look still has the whole pinky Valentine's Day-esque vibe going on, so maybe that's not too bad? I don't know; this is a train wreck.

FACE:

Primer:

• Wet 'N Wild PhotoFocus Matte Face Primer on my T-Zone
• Nicka K New York Ultra Smoothing Makeup Primer

 Concealer:

• E.L.F. Orange Concealer Stick under the Tarte Shape Tape in Deep on my mouth, and the Shape Tape paired with the Wet N Wild PhotoFocus Concealer in Medium/Deep Tan under my eyes.

Foundation: CoverGirl Queen Collection All Day Flawless 3-in-1 Foundation in Q825 Golden Honey

• Applied with a fake version of the Farsali Rose Gold Elixir, and enhanced by the Wet N Wild Hello Halo Liquid Highlighter in Goddess Glow under my eyes, and Go With The Glow on my forehead and chin.

Face Powder: Ben Nye Luxury Powder in Sienna

Under Eye Setting Powder: Maybelline Fit Me! Loose Setting Powder in Medium Deep

 

BROWS:

Outline: ColourPop Brow Pencil in Black 'n Brown

Filler: E.L.F. Brow Kit in Dark

Browbone Highlight: L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Toffee

 

EYES:

Primer: L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Toffee

Shadows:

• Transition: Warmth, in the Bad Habit Inferno Palette
• Crease: Hot Spot and Smolder, in the Bad Habit Inferno Palette
• Lid: Burn, in the Bad Habit Inferno Palette, with Ahora, in the Juvia's Place The Saharan II Palette on top
• Lower Lash Line: Hot Spot and Smolder, in the Bad Habit Inferno Palette
• Inner Corner: Marrakesh, in the Juvia's Place The Saharan II Palette

 

Eyeliner: Wet 'N Wild ProLine Graphic Marker Eyeliner
Mascara: Ruby Kisses Very Sexy Mascara on the bottom lashes

Lashes: E.L.F. Luxe Lash Kit in Winged & Polished

 

CONTOUR:

Ruby Kisses 3D Contour Palette in Medium Dark

 

HIGHLIGHT:

Tan Lines, in the Bad Habit Oasis Highlight Kit, with Marrakesh, in the Juvia's Place The Saharan II Palette on top

 

BLUSH:

Milani Baked Blush in Rose d'Oro

 
LIPS:

Nicka K New York Lip Gloss in Chocolate Cosmos to act as a liner of sorts (I couldn't find my liner), paired with the Milani Amore Shine Lip Gloss in Foxy Sexy

Honestly I'm surprised you stuck around this long to read the end of this post, but I thank you for it anyway. I promise to be more put together and ready in my next post, which will hopefully be soon!

x Ashlan

If you ever, even for a second, thought that I was a professional...

This is the post to prove otherwise.

Hello, people. This is just me, coming to you with another unplanned post. I've been on a writing spree as of late, and so my blog posts have been lacking because of it, but it was requested of me by She-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named to do a look and a blog post. She had no specific requests, outside of a certain color; she just wanted something to read, and what did I do? I put my pen and notebook down, and I started smearing shit on my face.

That's just the kind of gal I am.

Plus I had been kind of itching to get my hands dirty with this bad boy right here:

Behold, the 35D.

I have never been a very lucky person, but somehow Jesus was smiling down on me and I managed to win a giveaway, the prize of which being any Morphe palette of my choosing, so long as it is in stock (because everybody and their mama knows that the damn 35O is never in stock). I had already ordered two of the 12 pan palettes, and my sights were set on the 35D palette to buy next, and I didn't have to! So thanks again to @espoirdeamour for her giveaway, and for somehow choosing me to win it! Hopefully I will not let you down.

Which brings me to the look of the day.

And a video!

So clearly I went apeshit with this palette and a slew of other colors, and in the least professional way, I think. It feels a little bit messy, but I like the color combination, and since I never went to school for this (nor do I plan to), I can't really complain! Here are some details for you.

BROWS:

Filler: L'Oreal Paris Brow Stylist Definer in Dark Brunette

Browbone Highlight: L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Fawn

 

EYES:

Primer: LORAC Behind the Scenes Eye Primer

Base: The Sculpt powder in the Black Radiance True Complexion Contour Palette in Medium to Dark

Shadows:

• Transition: #3, in the E.L.F. Mad For Matte Palette
• Crease: #4, in the Morphe 35D Palette, with #21 in the same palette over top
• Lid (Gradient from outer corners to the center of the lid, on both sides):
• #10, in the Morphe 35D Palette
• #9, in the Morphe 35D Palette
• #12, in the Morphe 35D Palette
• #31, in the Morphe 35D Palette
• Inner Corner: #1, in the BH Cosmetics Foil Eyes Palette, with the Wet 'N Wild ColorIcon Single Eyeshadow in Spiked over top
• Lower Lash Line (Gradient from outer corner to inner corner):
• #6, in the Morphe 35D Palette, with the Wet 'N Wild ColorIcon Single Eyeshadow in Binge over top
• #6, in the E.L.F. Sunset Prism Palette
• #1, in the Morphe 35D Palette
• the Milani Bella Eyes Gel Powder Eyeshadow in Bella Gold

Eyeliner: NYC Big Bold & Precise Liner in Black

Mascara: L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Millions Lashes Carbon Black

As much of a mess as I feel this is, I like this mess! It was fun to play around with the daring colors in the 35D palette, and to mix some concepts together in the same look, and I enjoyed the challenge. I hope you enjoyed reading about it! Alright now I'm gonna try to make some shrimp alfredo and write some more; wish me luck!

x Ashlan

Nudes and Neutrals, Part Deux

Hi.

Today was a long day, y'all. I was blessed with a night off yesterday, but today made up for that and then some. My feet hurt, but I'm full and employed and trying not to complain too much. I said all that to say that I really don't have anything to ramble about and chat with you guys about today. Let's see...I got some hair oil, a liquid lippie and some concealer at the beauty supply...oh, and I came to discuss my beat ass face.

Not really lol but I did put on some makeup today! Makeup that I actually wore out of the house, so I thought I would share it with you, as I usually do. Let's get to it! -clap clap- Queue the face!

 

 Since this shift was longer than usual, it was a makeup-with-glasses kind of day, so here's the look with my specs on.

A closeup on the eyes:

And a video; is there ever not a video?

I was trying to match the vibe of the scarf that you see in the picture, and, other than the fact that I almost walked out of the house with no mascara on (as you can see in the damn video; I literally was about to walk out of the door), I was relatively pleased! Moving on to details!

FACE:

Primer:

• Benefit Cosmetics The POREfessional Matte Rescue Mattifying Gel on my T-Zone
• L'Oreal Magic Perfecting Base Primer on my cheek
• E.L.F. Mineral Infused Primer on the rest of my face

 Concealer:

• Mouth: L.A. Girl HD Pro Orange Corrector with the Ruby Kisses Pure Mineral Concealer in Chocolate Brown under the foundation, and L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Fawn over the foundation
• Nose, Chin, and Uneven Skintone on Cheeks: Ruby Kisses Pure Mineral Concealer in Chocolate Brown
• Under Eye: L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Fawn; Ruby Kisses Pure Mineral Concealer in Chocolate Brown

Foundation: CoverGirl Queen All Day Flawless 3-in-1 Foundation in Q825 Golden Honey

Face Powder: Black Radiance Pressed Powder in Golden Cashews

Bronzing Powder: Black Radiance Pressed Powder in Warm Hazelnut

Setting Powder: Black Opal Deluxe Finishing Powder in Neutral Light

 

BROWS:

Filler: L'Oreal Paris Brow Stylist Definer Pencil in Dark Brunette

Browbone Highlight: L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Fawn; Nicka K New York HD Concealer in Copper right under the brow
Brow Gel: Milani Brow Shaping Gel

 

EYES:

Primer: Wet 'N Wild PhotoFocus Eyeshadow Primer

Base: The Sculpt powder in the Black Radiance True Complexion Contour Palette in Medium to Dark

Shadows:

• Transition: Trend, in the Makeup Revolution New-trals vs Neutrals Palette
• Crease: #30, in the Morphe 35T Palette
• Lid: 
• Overall: Mode, in the Makeup Revolution New-trals vs Neutrals Palette
• Outer Third: Tone, in the Makeup Revolution New-trals vs Neutrals Palette
• Outer V: #19, in the BH Cosmetics Blushed Neutrals Palette
• Lower Lash Line (Gradient from darkest [outer corner] to lightest [inner corner]):
• #19, in the Morphe 35P Palette 
•  #7, in the Morphe 35T Palette
• #17, in the BH Cosmetics Blushed Neutrals Palette

Eyeliner:  

• Wing: Wet 'N Wild ProLine Graphic Marker Eyeliner
• Top Lid: NYC Big Bold & Precise Felt Tip Liner
   

Mascara: L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Carbon Black

CONTOUR:

Black Radiance True Complexion Contour Palette in Medium to Dark

 

HIGHLIGHT:

#7, in the Makeup Revolution Golden Sugar 2 Rose Gold Ultra Blush Palette, with #3 over top

 

BLUSH:

#24, in the BH Cosmetics Blushed Neutrals Palette

LIPS:

Lipstick: #14, in the BH Cosmetics Nude Lips Palette, with #7 on the outer perimeter of the lips

I was dying to have a crack at those two BH palettes again, after seeing a little of what they could do yesterday. I'm still obsessed with those blushes (they're literally perfect for me), and I was able to see how the lip colors worked over an extended period of time: very, very comfortable and creamy, and the color lasted for a very good amount of time, considering I didn't reapply anything over the course of almost five hours. I still love it, you guys; they're probbaly the best things I've ever bought from BH, and if you don't get your ass on that website and get them for yourself, I'm officially judging you.

Alright! Going to spend the next four hours or so writing! Have a good night!

x Ashlan

Let's talk about m----r f---ing BH Cosmetics

Okay, everybody knows about my love for Makeup Revolution, but there's a second brand that I seem to love just as much, but never rave about like I rave about Makeup Revolution, and I didn't even realize it until today, so let's talk about BH Cosmetics.

I'm gonna be honest with you for a moment - come, sit down, have a s'more - I came this close *snaps fingers* to hating BH Cosmetics.

Okay, wait, don't choke on the s'more, damn. Let me explain.

At the beginning of my quest for the perfect colorful eyeshadow palette (I was really only looking for one really good one to replace my E.L.F. 144 palette, and that's where the obsession began), I came across BH Cosmetics and their 120-eyeshadow palettes, and I thought my prayers had been answered; I ordered the second edition and patted myself on the back for my accomplishment. Then I got the palette in the mail.

The 120 palettes suck, okay. They suck, and anybody on Instagram can tell you that I'm not shy about talking shit about the 120 palettes, because they suck. The pans are tiny, some of the colors are repetitive, and the color payoff isn't worth two pennies; I found a palette at the dollar store with pigmentation just as good, if not better, than the 120 palette. If anyone knows me in real life then they know that, outside of love, it only takes me one fuck-up to never fuck up again; I don't have to be retaught lessons. So when the 120 palette fucked me over, I was done with BH; I was like f--k BH, f--k BH's president, f--k BH's mama, f--k the delivery man, everybody.

And then I discovered the Carli Bybel palette.

Honestly, BH better thank their lucky stars and cut Carli an extra check, because if it hadn't been for the beautiful presentation and packaging of the Carli Bybel palette, I never would've bought another thing from them, and I never would've gotten the chance to really see what BH could do, because the Carli Bybel palette is fan-damn-tastic. The success of that palette led me to get the Missy Lynn palette, then the Foil Eyes palette, then the Pride + Prejudice + Zombies palette, and I was able to really see how awesome the brand is. So, with this knowledge of how great BH Cosmetics is, I didn't hesitate to pre-order the Shaaanxo palette when it dropped, as well as the Take Me To Brazil palette (both of which are on their way), as well as the Blushed Neutrals and Nude Lips palettes.

THEY. ARE. EVERYTHING.

The Nude Lips palette is literally exactly what it says it is. And the beautiful part about it is that it's Black Girl Friendly, meaning that it's not a bunch of lip colors that look dusty rose/mauve/nude in the pan and then straight Bubblelicious pink on brown lips and skin, but actually look dusty rose/mauve/nude! And the shit smells like marshmallows. And the Blushed Neutrals...Jesus...okay let's just say that both palettes are extremely Black Girl Friendly, and I know they're both going to be in my Faves at the end of the month, and I just got them today. 

I'm rambling, I'm rambling.

Anyway, I decided to do a One Brand Wonder today, starring all of the wonderful palettes that I have acquired from BH Cosmetics over the past few months (well, almost all of them; Pride + Prejudice took a back seat today), and this is what I got!

Closeup on the eyes:

And a video for yo' ass.

These palettes were specifically made for me, I'm convinced. Like, you can't tell me any different; I don't want to hear it - lalalala...

FACE:

Primer:

• L'Oreal Magic Perfecting Base Primer on my cheeks and nose
• E.L.F. Mineral Infused Primer on the rest of my face

 Concealer:

• Mouth: L.A. Girl HD Pro Orange Corrector with the Nicka K New York HD Concealer in Fallow under the foundation, and L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Fawn over the foundation
• Nose, Chin, and Uneven Skintone on Cheeks: Nicka K New York HD Concealer in Fallow
• Under Eye: Nicka K New York HD Concealer in Fallow; L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Fawn

Foundation: Revlon ColorStay Whipped Creme Foundation in 340 Caramel

Face Powder: Black Radiance Pressed Powder in Golden Cashews

Bronzing Powder: Black Radiance Pressed Powder in Warm Hazelnut

Setting Powder: Black Opal Deluxe Finishing Powder in Neutral Light

BROWS:

Filler: L'Oreal Paris Brow Stylist Definer Pencil in Dark Brunette

Browbone Highlight: L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Fawn
Brow Gel: Milani Brow Shaping Gel

 

EYES:

Primer: LORAC Behind the Scenes Eye Primer

Base: The Sculpt powder in the Black Radiance True Complexion Contour Palette in Medium to Dark

Shadows:

• Transition: #3, in the BH Cosmetics Carli Bybel Palette
• Crease: #4, in the BH Cosmetics Carli Bybel Palette
• Lid: 
• Overall: #25, in the BH Cosmetics Blushed Neutrals Palette
• Inner Third: #3, in the BH Cosmetics Blushed Neutrals Palette
• Outer V: #5, in the BH Cosmetics Carli Bybel Palette
• Inner Corner: #8, in the BH Cosmetics Missy Lynn Palette
• Lower Lash Line (Gradient from darkest [outer corner] to lightest [inner corner]):
• #19, in the BH Cosmetics Blushed Neutrals Palette 
• #25, in the BH Cosmetics Blushed Neutrals Palette
• #7, in the BH Cosmetics Carli Bybel Palette

Eyeliner:  

• Wing: Wet 'N Wild ProLine Graphic Marker Eyeliner
• Top Lid: NYC Big Bold & Precise Felt Tip Liner
• Water Line: a mix of L.A. Girl Gel Glide Liner in Metallic Copper, and L.A. Colors Eyeliner Pencil in Gold
   

Mascara: Base coat of Wet 'N Wild PhotoFocus Lash Primer, with L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Carbon Black on the top lashes; Ruby Kisses Very Sexy Mascara on the bottom lashes

CONTOUR:

Black Radiance True Complexion Contour Palette in Medium to Dark

HIGHLIGHT:

#7, in the BH Cosmetics Missy Lynn Palette

BLUSH:

#23, in the BH Cosmetics Blushed Neutrals Palette

LIPS:

Lipstick: #7, in the BH Cosmetics Nude Lips Palette, with #6 in the center of the lips

Okay, before I conclude this, let's also talk about the fact that Revlon has been thoroughly demoted. I used to think that the Whipped creme foundation was the best foundation that there ever was, until I revisited my Cover Girl Queen All Day Flawless, and then I thought that I just had two really great foundations in my arsenal...until I tried the Whipped creme foundation on again today. Yeah, nothing compares to the CG Queen; I didn't like the texture of this foundation on my skin, and it's just not as flawless or warm as my CG Queen is. Here, have a comparison:

Today versus the other day

Do you see the texture? I see the texture, definitely in person, and I don't like it. I had been debating for so long whether or not to chipmunk it and buy second whipped foundation as a backup, and I'm so glad I didn't; now I can dedicate that backup purchase to my CG Queen.

Alright, back to BH. Yes, yes, and yes. Yes, BH. You put your foot in these palettes, seriously

Okay, that's it for today! I have to work tomorrow, so I'll have another look for you then! Probably with glasses on. Later!

x Ashlan

May The Odds Be Ever In Your Favor.

...I think that's how it goes.

Okay, show of hands: how many of us have read/seen the Hunger Games books/movies? I got on the bandwagon a little late (I didn't even realize that there were books until the first movie showed up), but I've read and seen everything. If you have as well (or have at least seen the movies), then you know a little something about the Capitol, and you know a little something about the Capitol's fashion sense.

The Capitol is a hot ass mess.

It's like old school Nicki Minaj, George Clinton and the Jetsons rolled into one, if you can imagine that. Everything is colorful, asymmetrical and oddly shaped, and just about nothing matches. That included the tributes for the Hunger Games; well, except for District 12, of course; Cinna wasn't going to let it go down like that, and I wouldn't either. I mean, you're already going to your death, hypothetically speaking; I'm going to need you to not look like Boo Boo the Fool whilst you do it.

Anyway, when I started playing around with makeup today, making use of the new Ruby Kisses Customizable palette I put together (Firefox keeps telling me that Customizable isn't a word, but we're just going to roll with it; y'all know what I mean), and when I finished the look, the first thing I thought of was that damn Capitol. But not, you know, the hot ass mess half; I mean the Cinna-Portia-Katniss-Peeta corner of the Capitol, where things matched and actually looked good. 

And a video, of course.

Can't you hear the anthem playing? Doesn't it give you the willies? Those people in the Capitol needed help. Anyway, here's what I used!

BROWS:

Filler: Jordana Cosmetics Easyliner Eyeliner in Lavish Brown

Browbone Highlight: L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Fawn

 

EYES:

Primer: LORAC Behind the Scenes Eye Primer

Base: The Sculpt powder in the Black Radiance True Complexion Contour Palette in Medium to Dark

Shadows:

• Transition: #3, in the L'Oreal La Palette Nude 1, followed by #5, in the BH Cosmetics Missy Lynn Palette
• Crease: #6, in the BH Cosmetics Missy Lynn Palette
• Lid (Gradient from outer corners to the center of the lid, on both sides):
• Midnight Howling, in my Ruby Kisses Luxe Colour Customizable Palette
• #13, in the Makeup Revolution Mermaids Forever Palette
• Tropical Paradise, in my Ruby Kisses Luxe Colour Customizable Palette, with a little bit of Ice Cloud, in the Makeup Revolution Fortune Favours The Brave Palette over top
• Inner Corner: the Milani Bella Eyes Gel Powder Eyeshadow in Bella Chiffon, with a little it of Ice Cloud, in the Makeup Revolution Fortune Favours The Brave Palette over top
• Lower Lash Line (Gradient from darkest [outer corner] to lightest [inner corner]):
• the Milani Bella Eyes Gel Powder Eyeshadow in Bella Copper
• the Milani Bella Eyes Gel Powder Eyeshadow in Bella Gold
• the Milani Bella Eyes Gel Powder Eyeshadow in Bella Chiffon

Eyeliner:  

• Water Line:  Jordana Cosmetics Easyliner Eyeliner in Blue Devine

Mascara: L'Oreal Paris Butterfly Intenza Midnight Black on the top lashes; Ruby Kisses Very Sexy Mascara on the bottom lashes

 

Alright, there you have it! The first original look that I've done in about a week or so, I think. I'm really feeling these RK eyeshadows, and considering the price (FIFTY NINE CENTS EACH) I think they're phenomenal. Okay, that's it! It's pretty early in the evening, so I'm going to make the most of it and write my butt off! Later!

x Ashlan

The ColourPop Challenge

Hello!

There's nothing really going on for me to report today. Went to class, took my grandmother to the grocery store (groceries for me woot woot), wrote a little bit (I need to be writing now, actually), and fried some chicken. But I didn't want the day to go by without some makeup done! I was scrolling through my makeup folder, looking for a recreation, and I found this:

Picture and look by @thaeyeballqueen

 Here's my rendition of it:

And a comparison shot:

Le video.

They honestly look nothing alike, but that's okay! I was pleased with the color combination; you would think that there's only so many ways that you can do a damn rainbow look, but you always end up finding one that's different!

As I was picking out palettes and things to use for this look, I found myself going...okay, this ColourPop color...and this one...ooh, and this one...and then I realized that I could probably do this entire look with almost nothing but ColourPop shadows, and that's exactly what I attempted to do, and if any of you know anything about ColourPop, you know that, as beautifully and uniquely textured as those shadows are, they are a pain in the ass to work with. This is why this is called the ColourPop Challenge! Details!

BROWS:

Filler: Jordana Cosmetics Easyliner Eyeliner in Lavish Brown

Browbone Highlight: L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Fawn

 

EYES:

Primer: LORAC Behind the Scenes Eye Primer

Base: The Sculpt powder in the Black Radiance True Complexion Contour Palette in Medium to Dark

Shadows:

• Transition: #29, in the Morphe 35P Palette, followed by #11, in the same palette
• Crease: #33, in the Morphe 35P Palette
• Lid: 
• Inner Third: the ColourPop Super Shock Eyeshadow in Get Lucky
• Transition Between Inner and Outer Thirds: the ColourPop Super Shock Eyeshadow in Game Face
• Outer Third: the ColourPop Super Shock Eyeshadow in Porter
• Outer V: #5, in the Morphe 35P Palette
• Inner Corner: the ColourPop Super Shock Eyeshadow in Puppy Love
• Lower Lash Line (Gradient from darkest [outer corner] to lightest [inner corner]):
• the ColourPop Super Shock Eyeshadow in Coconut
• the ColourPop Super Shock Eyeshadow in Ibiza
• the ColourPop Super Shock Eyeshadow in Empire
• Greenwich Village, in my Ruby Kisses Luxe Colour Customizable Palette
• the ColourPop Super Shock Eyeshadow in Get Lucky
• the ColourPop Super Shock Eyeshadow in Puppy Love

Eyeliner:  

• Wing: Wet 'N Wild ProLine Graphic Marker Eyeliner
• Top Lid: NYC Big Bold & Precise Felt Tip Liner
• Water Line: L.A. Girl Gel Glide Liner in Very Black

Mascara: L'Oreal Paris Butterfly Intenza Midnight Black on the top lashes; Ruby Kisses Very Sexy Mascara on the bottom lashes

Mission accomplished! It took some brushes, some sponge applicators and my fingers, but I managed to do a look with a majority of ColourPop eyeshadows! Alright, time for me to go write some more; later!

x Ashlan

I did a look!

All I wanted to do when I got home from work was write, but when I got here, the vanity was calling out to me, as it usually does, and I decided to answer! I had a look in mind to do, anyway, which wasn't a request this time, but was still inspired by a requester, which is this lovely lady right here:

Photo and look by @emglamguru

When I saw it, I absolutely had to give it a shot no matter what (because LOOK HOW PRETTY IT IS!!!), and tonight was the night that I did! Here's my rendition of it!

And a comparison shot:

And a video!

I couldn't exactly get the colors to show up as vibrantly without packing it on ridiculously, because as you can see I'm a little browner than my friend is, but I'm pleased with it overall! I was a little irked by my wing, but I guess you can't win them all, right? And my mascara really came through this time! I can't complain!

So, about these details!

BROWS:

Filler: Jordana Cosmetics Easyliner Eyeliner in Lavish Brown

Browbone Highlight: L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Fawn

 

EYES:

Primer: LORAC Behind the Scenes Eye Primer

Base: The Sculpt powder in the Black Radiance True Complexion Contour Palette in Medium to Dark

Shadows:

• Transition: Trend, in the Makeup Revolution New-trals vs Neutrals Palette 
• Crease: #5, in the BH Cosmetics Carli Bybel Palette
• Lid: 
• Overall: Sunset Hour, in the Makeup Revolution Fortune Favours The Brave Palette
• Inner Third: #2, in the BH Cosmetics Carli Bybel Palette
• Outer Third: Tone, in the Makeup Revolution New-trals vs Neutrals Palette
• Outer V: #8, in the Makeup Revolution Unicorns Unite Palette, and Lonely Planet, in the Makeup Revolution Fortune Favours The Brave Palette
• Inner Corner: Style in the Makeup Revolution New-trals vs Neutrals Palette
• Lower Lash Line (Gradient from darkest [outer corner] to lightest [inner corner]):
• #8, in the Makeup Revolution Unicorns Unite Palette 
• #7, in the Makeup Revolution Unicorns Unite Palette
• Style, in the Makeup Revolution New-trals vs Neutrals Palette

Eyeliner:  

• Top Lid/Wing: Wet 'N Wild ProLine Graphic Marker Eyeliner
• Water Line: Jordana Cosmetics Easyliner Eyeliner in Blue Devine, and then the Nicka K New York Auto Eye Pencil in Devine at the outer corners

Mascara: L'Oreal Paris Butterfly Intenza Midnight Black on the top lashes; Ruby Kisses Very Sexy Mascara on the bottom lashes

My opinion on the Fortune Favours The Brave palette still stands! The shimmers in that palette are phenomenal, and it's still worth the purchase, even though I have to find ways to use it - when I do, I'm never disappointed! Thanks to Emily for giving me an easy inspiration, which only made the look more pleasing upon finishing! I'll see you guys later, maybe tomorrow? We'll see!

x Ashlan

The Recreation From Hell

To be quite honest with you, when I started this whole look, the only thing that I thought was going to be notable about it was the fact that I actually used an eyeliner as my brow product.

So apparently I'm taking requests now. It all started with one of my IG besties Emily, who requested some pink and some yellow from me the other day, and just yesterday I got a request from one of my coworkers, to do this shit.

Look and video by @elena_sinyak

When I first saw it, all I though twas ooh, how pretty! And the excitement was real...until I actually sat down at my vanity to do it. I spent a good five minutes just staring at the picture, and staring at myself, and wondering how the hell I was going to pull it off, because not only is this a lot of color, this is a lot of blue, and the model on which the look was done has a completely different eye shape from me; as you can see, her eyes aren't hooded, and the tops of my eyelids rarely ever see the light of day. I told myself that I couldn't exactly recreate it, but I could finesse it, and that's what I did, and here we go:

Here's a comparison shot for you:

Le video.

 

Can you see the difference in eye shape? This would have been just about impossible to actually duplicate, but I think I got a similar vibe going on. Honestly, doing the makeup was probably the easy part; the hard part is how I'm going to try to explain what I used and where. Buckle up!

BROWS:

Filler: Jordana Cosmetics Easyliner Eyeliner in Lavish Brown

Browbone Highlight: L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Fawn

 

EYES:

Primer: LORAC Behind the Scenes Eye Primer

Base: The Sculpt powder in the Black Radiance True Complexion Contour Palette in Medium to Dark

Shadows (Jesus here we go):

• Transition
• Base Transition: #3, in the BH Cosmetics Carli Bybel Palette, with Earth, in the Makeup Revolution Flawless Matte Palette closer to the crease (though you can't see it)
• Inner Transition: the Milani Bella Eyes Gel Powder Eyeshadow in Bella Rouge, with a layer of the Milani Bella Eyes Gel Powder Eyeshadow in Bella Purple, and a layer of Expert, in the Makeup Revolution Flawless 2 Palette over top
• Outer Transition: a mix of the Milani Bella Eyes Gel Powder Eyeshadow in Bella Purple, and the ColourPop Super Shock Eyeshadow in Lace

• That Funky Eyeshadow "Wing": New Rules, in the Makeup Revolution Iconic Pro 2 Palette as a base, with the ColourPop Super Shock Eyeshadow in Etiquette over top, and a little of #21, in the Makeup Revolution Mermaids Forever Palette over top to make it interesting (like this wasn't interesting enough, I need to sit down) 

• Crease: 
• Inner Crease: #6, in the Wet 'N Wild QuartzCenter Studio Eyeshadow Palette
• Outer Crease: New Rules, in the Makeup Revolution Iconic Pro 2 Palette

• Lid (Gradient from lightest [inner corner] to darkest [outer corner]): 
•  Earth, in the BH Cosmetics Galaxy Chic Palette, with Only, in the Makeup Revolution Iconic Pro 2 Palette over top, because it was too damn blue
• the KIKO Water Eyeshadow in #208
• the Milani Bella Eyes Gel Powder Eyeshadow in Bella Rouge
• #5, in the BH Cosmetics Missy Lynn Palette
• #6, in the Wet 'N Wild QuartzCenter Studio Eyeshadow Palette

•  Inner Corner: Ice Cloud, in the Makeup Revolution Fortune Favours The Brave Palette
•  Lower Lash Line (Gradient from lightest [inner corner] to darkest [outer corner]): 
• the KIKO Water Eyeshadow in #208
• the Milani Bella Eyes Gel Powder Eyeshadow in Bella Copper
• a blend of New Rules, in the Makeup Revolution Iconic Pro 2 Palette, and the ColourPop Super Shock Eyeshadow in Etiquette

Eyeliner:  

• Water Line: Jordana Cosmetics Easyliner Eyeliner in Sterling Blue

Mascara: L'Oreal Butterfly Intenza Midnight Black on the top lashes; Ruby Kisses Very Sexy Mascara on the bottom lashes

I'M TIRED! I'M SO TIRED MY SHOULDERS HURT AND I JUST WANT TO EAT A SANDWICH AND DRINK JUICE THIS WORE ME OUT! HAVE A GOOD DAMN NIGHT!

X ASHLAN

Overdrafts and Broken iPod Screens

Today should've been a sucky day. For all intents and purposes, I should be highly upset. I dropped my iPod at work today and turned it into a shattered mess, and my credit card decided to take my payment late as hell, which resulted in me overdrafting (like I said before, this was not my big check lol I'm a poor college student). But I have a warranty on the iPod, and I can only blame myself for the overdrafting (if I hadn't have gone apeshit at the drugstore and beauty supply on Friday, I wouldn't have overdrafted in the first place!), so I'm really not all that upset! There are more important things to be concerned with, like...makeup!

I was just going to do a recreation today; just pick something out of my folder and do an eyes only post, because I'm kinda used to blogging by now (which is really shocking to me, because I've never been able to keep up with a journal, let alone a blog) and I wanted to post something, that's until I went on Instagram today and saw this, by another of my IG besties:

Look and post by the fabulous @louloulovesbeauty, who is eternally serving looks, honey.

Look at that! Look at that shit! Is that not the most amazing blending you've ever seen in your life?? It literally looks like the ocean! And she had the nerve to say it didn't look tropical; I almost cussed her out!

Anyway, her attempt at color, and tropical vibes, and the fact that she called my ass out as inspiration on the Instagram post, drove me to the conclusion that I couldn't let this day go by without attempting to show people exactly why she gave me a shout out in the first place. She said she had some yellow/green/blue in mind when she started (and clearly Ms. Purple had some feelings about that), so I thought that I would attempt to salvage some of the idea that she had, and put a little BSB spin on it; at least, I think it's a spin - I had no idea of what she really had in mind in the first place. Anyway, I digress; here's my look:

Ta-damn-da!

This was a challenge and a half, honey! But it was so much fun to do! And, of course, it took a few products to execute, which always makes it that much better! Okay, okay, details! 

Oh, shit, the video. Okay, now the details!

BROWS:

Filler: L'Oreal Paris Brow Stylist Definer Pencil in Dark Brunette

Browbone Highlight: L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Fawn

 

EYES:

Primer: LORAC Behind the Scenes Eye Primer

Base: The Sculpt powder in the Black Radiance True Complexion Contour Palette in Medium to Dark

Shadows:

• Transition: Rust, in the Makeup Revolution Flawless Matte Palette, with #4, in the BH Cosmetics Missy Lynn Palette closer to the crease
• (Crease: #5, in the BH Cosmetics Missy Lynn Palette
• Lid (Gradient from lightest [inner corner] to darkest [outer corner]): 
•  #19, in the BH Cosmetics Foil Eyes Palette
• Golden Radiance, in my Ruby Kisses Luxe Colour Customizable Palette
• Greenwich Village, in my Ruby Kisses Luxe Colour Customizable Palette
• the ColourPop Super Shock Eyeshadow in Ibiza
• the Milani Bella Eyes Gel Powder Eyeshadow in Bella Teal
• the ColourPop SuperShock Eyeshadow in Etiquette

Eyeliner:  

• Top Lid/Wing: Wet 'N Wild ProLine Graphic Marker Eyeliner
• Water Line: Jordana Cosmetics Easyliner Eyeliner in Tantalizing Teal, and then Blue Devine at the outer corners
   

This was an eyes only look, because I'm lazy! Anyway, like I said, this was such a fun look to do, and so ridiculously affordable that I want to slap somebody; the RK shadows weren't even a dollar, you guys. No palette that I used today was even $15, so hopefully you get a chance to recreate it yourself, if you're interested! Anyway, thanks again to my IG bestie Louloulovesbeauty, and I'll see y'all later; it's time to make some Hamburger Helper. Later!

xAshlan

#IfItAin'tBrokeDon'tFixIt

I've been saying that a lot, lately, mainly because I keep trying things, and they keep directing me right back to the tried and true.

I tried a matte primer, because I thought my usual primer wasn't working, and ended up with a textured face after a few hours.

I tried some new mascaras, and while one did work wonders for my bottom lashes, I ended up with lackluster lashes, and went right back to where I started, and I learned some lessons. Your face might not be as matte as you want it to, but that's what powder is for, and you could always have a sheet of sandpaper for a face, so it could be worse. Also, even thought your mascara is expensive as hell for a drugstore product, it's expensive as hell for a reason, and that's why you paid the expensive as hell price in the first place. Pick your battles, people; that's all I'm saying.

Okay! Moving on to today's face!

 

I feel like this is as good of a time as ever to day "ta-da"

And Ye Olde Closeup on the eyes:

There's no video today, because I was running late...as per usual.

I was obsessed with this look when I took the pictures; I don't ever think I've had pictures come out like these did - I felt like a legit beauty blogger, if that makes sense. You know, one with an actual camera...and an education in makeup artistry. But I'm just me, smearing stuff on my face. Here's what I smeared!

FACE:

Primer:

• Benefit Cosmetics The POREfessional Matte Rescue Mattifying Gel on my T-Zone
• L'Oreal Magic Perfecting Base Primer on my cheeks and nose
• E.L.F. Mineral Infused Primer on the rest of my face

 Concealer:

• Mouth: L.A. Girl HD Pro Orange Corrector with the Nicka K New York HD Concealer in Fallow under the foundation, and L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Fawn over the foundation
• Nose, Chin, and Uneven Skintone on Cheeks: Nicka K New York HD Concealer in Fallow
• Under Eye: Nicka K New York HD Concealer in Fallow; L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Fawn

Foundation: Cover Girl Queen All Day Flawless 3-in-1 Foundation in Q825 Golden Honey

Face Powder: Black Radiance Pressed Powder in Golden Cashews

Bronzing Powder: Black Radiance Pressed Powder in Warm Hazelnut

Setting Powder: Black Opal Deluxe Finishing Powder in Neutral Light

 

BROWS:

Filler: L'Oreal Paris Brow Stylist Definer Pencil in Dark Brunette

Browbone Highlight: L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Fawn
Brow Gel: Milani Brow Shaping Gel

 

EYES:

Primer: Wet 'N Wild PhotoFocus Eyeshadow Primer

Base: The Sculpt powder in the Black Radiance True Complexion Contour Palette in Medium to Dark

Shadows:

• Transition: Burnt and Rust, in the Makeup Revolution Flawless Matte Palette
• (Outer V) Crease: #12, in the Morphe 35P Palette
• Lid: 
• Overall: #24, in the Morphe 35T Palette
• Outer Third: #20, in the Morphe 35P Palette
• Inner Third: #12, in the Morphe 35T Palette
• Lower Lash Line (Gradient from darkest [outer corner] to lightest [inner corner]):
• #20, in the Morphe 35P Palette
• #7, in the Morphe 35T Palette

Eyeliner:  

• Wing: Wet 'N Wild ProLine Graphic Marker Eyeliner
• Water Line: Jordana Cosmetics Easyliner Eyeliner in Seagreen (why? I don't know)
   

Mascara: Base coat of Wet 'N Wild PhotoFocus Lash Primer, with L'Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Carbon Black on the top lashes; Ruby Kisses Very Sexy Mascara on the bottom lashes

 

CONTOUR:

Black Radiance True Complexion Contour Palette in Medium to Dark

 

HIGHLIGHT:

Makeup Revolution Vivid Baked Bronzer in Rock On World, with #3, in the Makeup Revolution All About Bronzed Ultra Bronze Palette over top

 

BLUSH:

L.A. Colors Mineral Blush in Spiced Rum

LIPS:

Lipstick: ColourPop Ultra Satin Liquid Lipstick in TooLips 

 

I had originally planned to take a more colorful route (maybe some orange...that's probably why I stuck that green eyeliner in there, out of spite), but the shirt spoke for itself, and I decided that I hadn't been giving my Morphe palettes enough love, so I had to pay a visit, since I've been revisiting all of my throwbacks these days. I love it; I hope you guys do, too! Alright, tomorrow's Monday, so there's no guarantee that I'll have a look for you, but I'll see what I can do! Later!

x Ashlan

I...don't really know what to call this post.

I think I've lost my mojo, you guys. I don't have an interesting title; all I have is a beat face and a dream.

I got my BH Cosmetics Pride + Prejudice + Zombies palette in the mail today (shoutout to BH for not playing around with that two day shipping), and I must say that I'm impressed with the potential of it. The colors are very neutral, and I immediately singled out a transition color, and was able to incorporate a pop of color on my lower lash line with it, though I did augment the palette with a couple of others (you know how I do). I was worried that I wouldn't like the palette, and I almost didn't order it, but I was sold on the blushes (only one of the two can work for me, though), and I can't say that I regret it! If it wasn't for the PPZ palette, I wouldn't have been able to do this look for work today:

You like? I like...I think.

A closeup on the eyes:

And a video, of course.

I think the only real problem I had with this look was the fact that I did my makeup today with a headscarf on, because I was trying to lay down my edges at the last minute, and I ended up with a distinct line of demarcation that I didn't notice until I was in the car *sigh*. Other than that I'm really happy with the eyes, and the foundation is awesome (I think I got a little too happy with the setting spray, though), but I digress! You don't want to hear me yammer on, you want the details.

FACE:

Primer:

• Benefit Cosmetics The POREfessional Matte Rescue Mattifying Gel on my T-Zone
• L'Oreal Magic Perfecting Base Primer on my cheeks and nose
• Rimmel London Stay Matte Primer on the rest of my face

 Concealer:

• Mouth: L.A. Girl HD Pro Orange Corrector with the Nicka K New York HD Concealer in Coffee under the foundation, and L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Fawn over the foundation
• Nose, Chin, and Uneven Skintone on Cheeks: Nicka K New York HD Concealer in Coffee
• Under Eye: Nicka K New York HD Concealer in Coffee; L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Fawn

Foundation: Cover Girl Queen All Day Flawless 3-in-1 Foundation in Q825 Golden Honey

Face Powder: Black Radiance Pressed Powder in Golden Cashews

Bronzing Powder: Black Radiance Pressed Powder in Warm Hazelnut

Setting Powder: Black Opal Deluxe Finishing Powder in Neutral Light

BROWS:

Filler: L'Oreal Paris Brow Stylist Definer Pencil in Dark Brunette

Browbone Highlight: L.A. Girl HD Pro Concealer in Fawn
Brow Gel: Milani Brow Shaping Gel

 

EYES:

Primer: Wet 'N Wild PhotoFocus Eyeshadow Primer

Base: The Sculpt powder in the Black Radiance True Complexion Contour Palette in Medium to Dark

Shadows:

• Transition: Neutral, in the Makeup Revolution New-trals vs Neutrals Palette, followed by #4, in the BH Cosmetics Pride + Prejudice + Zombies Palette
• Crease: Afflicted, in the Makeup Revolution Iconic Pro 1 Palette
• Lid: 
• Overall: #2, in the BH Cosmetics Pride + Prejudice + Zombies Palette
• Outer Third: Getter, followed by Stage, in the Makeup Revolution Iconic Pro 1 Palette
• Outer V: MAC Powder Blush in Apple Red
• Lower Lash Line (Gradient from darkest [outer corner] to lightest [inner corner]):
• #9, in the BH Cosmetics Pride + Prejudice + Zombies Palette
• #14, in the Makeup Revolution Mermaids Forever Palette

Eyeliner: Wet 'N Wild ProLine Graphic Marker Eyeliner

Mascara: Base coat of Wet 'N Wild PhotoFocus Lash Primer, with Wet 'N Wild Max Volume PlusMascara on the top lashes; Ruby Kisses Very Sexy Mascara on the bottom lashes

CONTOUR:

Black Radiance True Complexion Contour Palette in Medium to Dark

HIGHLIGHT:

Makeup Revolution Vivid Baked Bronzer in Rock On World, with the KIKO Water Eyeshadow in #208 over top

BLUSH:

#15, in the BH Cosmetics Pride + Prejudice + Zombies Palette

LIPS:

Lipstick: Milani Amore Matte Lip Creme in Devotion

Liner: Jordana Cosmetics Easyliner Eyeliner in Coffee Bean

I'm starting to think that the Stay Matte primer is a little too thick/tacky for me, so it adds unnecessary texture to my face; I'll try the foundation out again with my usual E.L.F., but I was only minimally shiny today, and I loved the finish of the foundation as usual. We'll see! I'll be back tomorrow with another look for work. Good night!

x Ashlan