Racquel Simone

Crazy For Coral - Lipstick, Blush, Nail Colour, and Lip Gloss

2012-05-24T13:06:00.001-04:00

Coral will probably always be a summer essential in my book. From bags, shoes, dresses and other accessories to lipstick, and blush, coral always seems to help women make a truly classic, summer time statement. Often, one that stands out in a very good way!

Below, you'll find some of my absolute favorite coral hued lipsticks and glosses. I also added my favorite coral blush, which is Benefit's Coralista Blush ($28) at Sephora stores. I LOVE this blush. You can use it on any skin tone. If you are using it on more deeply hued skin tones, warm it up with a matte bronzing powder. You'll love it!

From top to bottom:
1st column: Estee Lauder Pure Color Gloss in Impulsive Coral $22.50; Bobbi Brown Sheer Color Lip Gloss in Cabana Coral $23; Trish McEvoy Classic Lip Color in Vibrant Coral $23;
2nd column: Bobbi Brown Rich Lip Color SPF 12 in Miami Coral $23; Benefit blush in Coralista $28;
3rd column: Yves Saint Laurent Gloss Pur Pure in #3 Pure Coral $29.99; Maybeline SuperStay 14 Hour Lip Color in Keep Me Coral $7

Remember,
~Beauty-Your Definition
Racquel Simone~

Soft Landings Review

2012-05-09T11:09:00.004-04:00

A couple of months ago I was sent some Soft Landings towels to try out. It is a shame that it has taken me this long to review them. Nonetheless, I have to say that I was impressed by these towels. Soft Landings is primarily marketed to nail pros, but after browsing the site, I saw that they could be used on makeup jobs as well. So, I filled out the form to have some samples sent to me.

I LOVE this product. Gone are the days of using half a roll of paper towel on a job or dirtying up nice towels. Soft Landings towels are 100% disposable and honestly make for THEE easiest clean up ever. I love them. Below is an example I pulled from their site. The towel has gone through the typical makeup job. Foundation swatching, brush cleaning, and getting rid of excess product on it. It holds up! My favorite is that the products do not leak through because the towels are so sturdy.

Yes, this will be another item to add to your supply list, but that 5-10 minutes you save in clean-up is worth it, in my opinion, especially if you have back-to-back jobs. They are offered in a couple of different sizes at reasonable price points. They'd definitely be worthwhile for in home use as well. You can experiment with all of your new products you buy without dirtying up your counters. I recommend these towels. Check out contact information for Soft Landings below.

Soft Landings

http://www.softlandingstowels.com/

Twitter: @Soft_Landings

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/softietowels

Remember,

Beauty=Your Definition

Racquel Simone

Late For My Date- But It Was Worth The Wait! - Beauty Blender Review

2012-04-10T14:35:00.000-04:00

The sponge in the photo above has totally changed my makeup application on both myself, and my clients. Who would think that an egg shaped sponge would increase efficiency and provide such a flawless application? I had always used sponges from Sally Beauty Supply. Then, they stopped making my favorite one and we had to downgrade to the ones they are selling now which they state contain vitamin E. They were getting the job done, but they weren't impressive.

When I got to The Makeup Show L.A., I was excited to buy some Alcone sponges, as I've found them to be far more superior than the ones in drugstores and beauty supply stores. Well, when I got to the booth, they were sold out! I went to the Naime's booth to check out the Z Palette, and lo and behold, there was the Beauty Blender. 2 for $14. I had just watched Mario D. give a seminar and do a demo of a makeup application and he was raving about them. I had also seen them back in '09 at The Artist Summit. I've seen them on countless blog posts and just never caved in on purchasing one. Perhaps it was the $40 sticker price at Beauty First that threw me off? I was so late for my date with a Beauty Blender after years of seeing it on the market,but hey, I finally went on one! I recommend purchasing online from Naime's. They seem to have pretty fair prices on it, and even offer a pro pack.

All you have to do is wet the sponge, and stipple the foundation into the skin. The amount of coverage you get obviously depends on how much product and stippling you use, BUT using this sponge definitely brings truth to the phrase, "build-able coverage". Obviously if you have a large fashion show, or bridal party, you'll need to have plenty on hand. The sponges are an investment if you go that route, but I think they'd be worth it. Naime's sells a pro-pack of 6 plus the cleanser for $80.

So ladies, my advice: Get a Beauty Blender!

Naime's ---> http://www.naimies.com/

Remember,
~Beauty=Your Definition
Racquel Simone~

NARS Thakoon Nail Polish Collection - Summer 2012

2012-04-09T07:45:00.000-04:00

$18 each - NARS - http://www.narscosmetics.com

Releasing on May 1st, with the exception of the red shade on the far right, which is exclusive to the Bleecker St. boutique.

I want all of the shades from yellow to the left! They are HOT!

Remember,
~Beauty=Your Definition
Racquel Simone ~

Spring Beauty Picks - 2012

2012-04-09T07:30:00.000-04:00

Spring has officially sprung, and I know we are THRILLED about it. I decided to put together a few of my favorite spring products for this year. Check them out!

Remember,
~Beauty=Your Definition
Racquel Simone~

The Makeup Show LA - 2012 Re-Cap

2012-03-29T16:46:00.000-04:00

This is going to be a long, but informative post. Just a heads up.

I'd always wanted to go to The Makeup Show in L.A., seeing as how I'll be a California resident shortly. I had only been to one other Powder Group event previously, and that was The Artist Summit Chicago in 2009. Because of the caliber of that event, I knew I wouldn't be let down at The Makeup Show L.A. did not disappoint. The Makeup Show L.A. was held Saturday March 17th-Sunday March 18th. What an inspiring two days!

First, let me tell you about the products, since it's the first thing you see when you walk in. Some of your FAVORITE pro products can be found here at bargain prices. For instance, the Zpalette is normally about $22 for the large one. It was $12 at the show. I was even able to meet the creator, Zena Shteysel. She sold me my Z palette. Such a sweet lady. I believe she was, at one point, and may still be, the head of makeup for Dancing With the Stars on abc.

Another great deal was the Beauty Blender, which several pro MUAs swear by. I got two for $14! They sell these at Beauty First stores in a duo for $40. I have not stopped using my beauty blender since I got it! Best.Sponge.Ever. Makeup Forever was all 40% off I believe? There was a line to purchase their products. Some people weren't happy with that, but it would have been sheer pandemonium if they didn't do it that way. Crown Brush brought some of my favorite brushes. I got four blending brushes and paid $8 total for all four of them.

The only other items I bought were a nail polish from OCC Cosmetics that I had been looking at for a while and a Lip Tar from them as well. Lip tars are highly pigmented lipsticks that you squeeze out of a tube. The formula is thin, BUT a tiny dot goes a SUPER long way. I am in love with the Lip Tar I purchased. There were so many other companies there as well. Auraline Beauty, Naime's, Cinema Secrets, Kissable Couture, Stila, Inglot, and many more of our pro faves. I was slightly devastated that Parian Spirit was not there. I was ready to stock all the way up. I am also slightly jealous that NARS cosmetics will be at the NY show. If you read this blog regularly, you know that I am a big fan!

Now for the keynote forums and seminars. There was SO much to choose from! Not enough time in the day. On the first day, we heard from the legendary Sharon Gault, or "Mama Makeup". Sharon has worked with many A-list clients including Brittney Spears, Charlize Theron, and Lady Gaga. She demo'd an application on a model, but her most poignant information came from her revelations about her personal struggles with staying focused and balancing life as a mother and a professional makeup artist. She is back on track and has re-signed with her agency and is looking forward to many more successful years in the industry.

We also heard from Emmy and Academy Award winning makeup master Bill Corso who spoke to us about the importance of obtaining a mentor in the business when you are new to the industry. For example, you may not be new to beauty or bridal makeup, but when attempting to break into film and TV it is vital that you get under the mentorship of someone who has been successful in the field. Bill noted that Ve Neil, who recently headed up the makeup team for the wildly successful "The Hunger Games" film was his mentor. She spotted his potential AND talent and took him under her wing. He accredits her mentorship with getting him where he is today.

Crystal Wright hosted a pro-panel that consisted of notable publicists, agents, photographers, and booking agents. The entire 90 minute panel was a Q&A session with information on setting up test shoots, presenting your book to agencies and being the creative director for a shoot. MUA etiquette was also a topic that was touched on. It was a very informative panel, to say the least.

On the second day of the show, we were able to hear from Mario Dedivanovic a.ka. MakeupByMario, most widely known for his makeup applications on Kim Kardashian. Mario completed a Q&A session while demonstrating a makeup application from start to finish. Mario LOVES his Beauty Blender sponges. So much so, that I was convinced to finally purchase some. I am SO late to that party! His contouring and highlighting were amazing and his precise applications and attention to detail definitely set him apart from the others in my book this weekend. He also gave some great information on the difference between MUA work on the West and East coast. He also let us know that many times, when dealing with celebrities, it is your PERSONALITY that will allow you to get and keep clients. Mario stated that someone can be much more talented than you, but if a celeb client enjoys your presence in their space, they will re-book you over and over again. He does state not to use that information as a pass to do sloppy work. To even be considered for celebrity makeup bookings, your work needs to already be at a certain level.

Overall, my experience at The Makeup Show L.A. was an awesome one and I'll definitely be back next year. I was able to meet a lot of new artists, get a lot of good information and receive some solid feedback on my portfolio. IF you are a professional artist, I do recommend making an investment into attending one of the shows. I think it is a good jump off point for artists in every stage of their careers. Reconnecting with peers, if nothing else is a great way to build camaraderie in the makeup artist community and will help you build lasting, genuine relationships.

You can also find out about more advanced and continuing education workshops, like Crystal Wright's, "Packaging Your Portfolio" workshop, which will help you focus on getting signed to an agency. I do plan on attending the Chicago show in June, if not but for a day because of one of the yet to be named keynote speakers there :) I've posted a few snaps from the show below.

Remember,
~Beauty =Your Definition
Racquel Simone~

Fashion In Detroit 2012

2012-03-05T14:24:00.001-05:00

This Saturday I will be covering Fashion In Detroit for DetroitFashionNews.com. Of course, I'll be getting beauty info galore for you, my fab readers too! I am EXTRA excited about the StyleCaster.com press lounge!

If you are in the Metropolitan Detroit area, I encourage you to come out and experience a day full of fashion! Tickets for the event as well as the after party are on sale now! For more information, please visit Fashion In Detroit.

Remember,

~Beauty=Your Definition

Racquel Simone~

COVERGIRL VolumeExact Mascara

2012-02-29T14:23:00.000-05:00

I have some good news and some bad news. The good news is that I have fallen in love with a mascara I just discovered. The bad news is that I think it's about to be discontinued. Le sigh.

I stumbled upon COVERGIRL's VolumeExact mascara accidentally. I was scanning the aisles of my local CVS looking for a quick replacement mascara for the day because the one I needed to use had rolled under the seat in my friend's car and I wasn't able to locate it. (I am a wreck, I know.)

Anyway, I ran into CVS as we were already late for the event we were headed to. I saw this mascara hanging on the shelf, and it had one of those magical 75% off neon yellow/green stickers. I checked it to make sure it was black, because I've found that many times when a mascara is on clearance, it's brown! Not to say that this is the rule, but it's certainly been my experience. I bought it for $2.97.

When I applied it in the car, I was immediately in love. Now, let me say this: If you are looking for a lengthening mascara, this is not it. This mascara gives volume just like it says and a sexy curl to your lash. The result is flirty lashes that are defined and full. The mascara doesn't clump which is always a plus and at $2.97, it was a steal.

Sadly, I think that $2.97 price point is an indication that it might be discontinued soon. It's like an unwritten rule; the minute you find a cosmetic product that you love, it ends up on the chopping block. I'm actually going to pick up a few more this weekend, just in case they are, indeed, discontinued.

OSCAR Beauty Wrap-Up!

2012-02-27T07:30:00.000-05:00

Angelina Jolie

As you all know, I love doing wrap ups of my favorite looks from award show red carpets. Last night was what some people liken to the Superbowl of red carpets. The 84th Annual Academy Awards were held last night in sunny Los Angeles, California. The fashion was amazing. If you'd like to check out my favorite fashions from the evening, check out DetroitFashionNews.com.

As far as my favorite beauty looks go, I have to say Ms. Angelina Jolie's makeup was amazing. I'm not usually sure of what the big hype is over he red carpet choices, but she definitely hit the nail on the head and received my choice for best makeup last night. I love her soft grey smokey lashes. The natural, yet sexy lashes and perfectly arched and groomed eyebrows looked awesome against her flawless, milky skin. The red lip? Perfect pair with her classic Versace gown. Although her look was simple, it really was my favorite, because it was well executed.

Jennifer Lopez's makeup always looks good. I have to say her sun kissed golden look always looks good. I don't really ever get tired of it. There is a faint double winged liner going on. I like that it's mild for the occasion. Her nude lip and chiseled cheeks really brought the look together.

Jessica Chastain gets an honorable mention. I like her almost completely natural look. As an MUA, most of us know that it sometimes takes more effort to pull of a natural look than a highly dramatic one. Her winged liner added a little drama, but her flawless skin really went well with her dramatic hair look.

Jennifer Lopez

Jessica Chastain

Remember,

~Beauty=Your Definition
Racquel Simone~

Indigo Charlie - Float

2012-02-22T07:00:00.000-05:00

If you've been a reader for a while, you are at least somewhat familiar with Indigo Charlie. I interviewed Indigo a while back about her music, and of course asked her to let us in on some beauty secrets and some of her favorite products, and she happily obliged.

Well, Indigo is back with a new video. The song is called "Float". In it, the use of black and white imagery with pops of color manages to keep you focused on Indigo and the lyrics of this delightful song. The lip color choices in this video are not the norm, and that is so refreshing. Her skin is flawless and we cannot overlook her luscious locks! Indigo's hair is ALWAYS amazing.

Can we discuss the clothes? Indigo is wearing designs by Alexander Kosztowny, a FIDM alumni. Alexander's pieces are very nice and suit Indigo well. The video is to be considered a fashion film, and Indigo certainly hits the mark with this one. As usual, I'll be looking forward to more music from Indigo in the future. Be sure to check out all of her songs on SoundCloud. "Cool Love" is another favorite of mine from her. Check out the video for "Float" below.

Indigo is currently a fashion student at FIDM and works in the Celebrity VIP Services/PR department at Georgia Armani. She is an independent aritst, who will be shopping her EP later this year.

Follow Indigo
Twitter: @IndigoC
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/IndigoCharlieMusic
Listen To Her Music: Soundcloud.com/Indigo Charlie

"Float"
produced by Adrian Trujillo
directed by Erick Sanchez and David A. Rodriguez of YKMG.

Remember,
~Beauty = Your Definition
Racquel Simone~

GRAMMY Awards - Red Carpet Best In Beauty

2012-02-13T07:45:00.000-05:00

photo by Jeff Vespa/WireImage - 2012

The GRAMMY awards took place last night and let me tell you, there was quite a bit happening on the red carpet! There were some MAJOR misses but, as always, I am going to focus on those who made the mark!

Taking the award for best beauty look of the night was ADELE, who looked absolutely fabulous, as usual. It's like she can do no beauty wrong. That red lip was everything and the contouring, which appeared to get a little deeper after the red carpet, was just what she needed. Her skin always looks flawless. The red lip helped her keep her look classic. Can we talk about her lashes?!?!? SEXY. I loved her entire beauty look.

Honorable mentions: Melanie Fiona always has thee best glow of anyone on the red carpet. Carrie Underwood totally took the cake as far as dresses were concerned. She wears her smokey eye well, every time.Kelly Rowland's artist did an excellent job with her brows. That is how you pull off a strong brow! Lastly, Katy Perry looked like a burst of spring with her fresh hair and makeup.

photo by Steve Granitz/WireImage - 2012

photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images - 2012

photo by Steve Granitz/WireImage - 2012

photo by Larry Busacca/Getty Images - 2012

photo by Kevin Mazur/WireImage - 2012

Remember,

~Beauty=Your Definition
Racquel Simone~

♥ XO Valentine's Day Beauty - Just a Few Things ♥ XO

2012-02-07T07:46:00.000-05:00

With Valentine's Day just about a week away, I decided to put together my top beauty picks for dates this Valentine's Day. Whether it's brand new love, your husband, your fiance or a budding friendship, most of us girls want to make sure we are super cute for our Valentine's Day dates. Check out these items and consider adding them to your Valentine's Day beauty line up.

Clockwise from the top right: OCC Cosmetics Valentine's Day Box Set $49.95, Ginger & Liz "Put A Ring On It" nail polish $12, Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss Trio $38, Stila Cosmetics "Happiness Pink" Lip Enamel $22, Stila Cosmetics "Love At First Blush" palette $14, Zoya "Carmen" Nail Polish $8, LORAC blush in "Pink" $20, M.A.C. "Ruby Woo" lipstick $14.50

Remember,
~Beauty = Your Definition
Racquel Simone~

Smashbox: Photo Finish Hydrating Foundation Primer

2012-02-01T18:00:00.000-05:00

Influencer disclosure: I was given a free product or sample because I'm a Klout influencer. I was under no obligation to receive the sample or talk about this company. I get no additional benefits for talking about the product or company.

I was sent a tube of smashbox's latest formulation of their much raved foundation primer. Photo Finish Hydrating Foundation Primer is for those with normal to dry skin. Now, I tend to have combination to oily skin, but since it's winter, I'd figured I'd give it a shot since my skin had recently been on the dry side. My thoughts of the product are that it is an okay product.

The Pros

- Helped my makeup glide on

- Moisturized my skin

The Cons

- The odor! The smell was NOT pleasant at all. That's no bueno over here.

- The product had a little too much moisture for me. Even though it was oil-free, I still ended up shiny at the end of my use which was about 6 hours later. I am not sure I can fault the product completely though, because it DOES say "hydrating" which one can assume means it should be used on skin that normally has issues with being too dry.

I have to note that I love the original formulation and can only say good things about it. I do use the "Light" formula in the summer though to make sure I am not shiny! Overall, if you have dry skin, I'm sure this is a product you might find beneficial.

Remember,

~Beauty = Your Definition

Racquel Simone~

Taylor Swift Lands the Cover of VOGUE

2012-01-19T10:34:00.000-05:00

To know me is to know that I LOVE Taylor Swift. I've been to her concert, watched TV specials, and collected memorabilia. As of late, my favorite item would have to be my 2012 Taylor Swift wall calendar. So, imagine the sheer delight I had when I discovered that Taylor would be gracing the latest cover of VOGUE.

As far as the actual spread goes, (from what I've seen online), her hair in the pictures looks great. The sleek straight look complemented by her long bangs bring a bit of maturation to her look. I like the wardrobe in the spread, but I can't say that I'm convinced she'd wear any of it in her non-editorial life. However, for other celebs who land in VOGUE, I am usually able to picture them wearing and loving the pieces pulled for their shoots.

This brings me to my question: Should Taylor Swift have gotten a VOGUE cover? I know that she is loved on the music scene, very wealthy and quite talented, but can it be said that she evokes feelings of grandeur when it comes to the type of high-fashion and couture spreads that VOGUE is known for? Or, is VOGUE attempting to welcome in a new demographic of readers? Just a few thoughts. What do you think of Taylor Swift landing a VOGUE cover?

Photo Credit, Mario Testino for VOGUE via JustJared.com

Photo Credit, Mario Testino for VOGUE

Remember,
~Beauty = Your Definition
Racquel Simone~

Hair, Makeup & Gowns! The Best From the 2012 Golden Globe Awards

2012-01-15T23:37:00.000-05:00

Head on over to my TUMBLR for my picks for Best Dressed, and Best Hair and Makeup!

Remember,
~Beauty=Your Definition
Racquel Simone~

Viola Davis - Ciritics Choice Awards Acceptance Speech - Inspirational Moment

2012-01-13T09:26:00.000-05:00

I know that I usually do a red carpet beauty review the day after an awards show, but today I wanted to show you something a little bit different. The 2012 Critic's Choice Awards were held last night and actress Viola Davis won for Best Actress. Her speech was so touching, and real and true.

While watching her Critic's Choice Award acceptance speech, I remembered an interview she had done last year for the women's ministry at her church in Los Angeles. It was very insightful and motivating. Even if you are not trying to break into acting, her message of hope, diligence and perseverance in both clips will inspire you. The speech clip is about 5 minutes and the interview with her church is about 24 minutes, but worth it. I have great respect for Viola Davis. Watch the clips below. Be inspired today!

Remember,
~Beauty-Your Definition
Racquel Simone~

TV Shows - Full Episode Video - Reality TV Shows

Viola Davis Interview w/ Holly Wagner from Oasis Church on Vimeo.

2012 People's Choice Awards - Best In Beauty

2012-01-12T09:49:00.000-05:00

Three cheers for the people! Last night, the 2012 People's Choice Awards were held in Los Angeles. These awards are rumored to be one of the favorites among celebs. Why? Because you, the people, decide who wins these awards. It's not often that the awards are given out based on the decisions of the people that the content was created for, and that's somewhat unfortunate, but that's a whole different story for a whole different blog!

Moving on, there were definitely some nice looks on the red carpet last night, both beauty and fashion wise, though I'll be focusing specifically on the red carpet beauty. Below are my picks for the best beauty looks of the night.

I LOVED Lea Michele's bold lip choice. The pinkish purple lip took the somewhat dramatic dress and toned it down a notch. It was a nice balance. Although, I'm not quite sure what happened with her hair.

Tia and Tamera Mowry always have flawless foundation. In my mind, it's become their trademark. Their MUA always highlights the right areas of their face too, specifically their cheeks and the high points of the face. Their eyeliner is always somewhat smudged, either on the top or bottom lid, and it always looks just right on them.

Miley Cyrus was giving us LASH last night on the red carpet! I am a fan of a nice lengthy lash whose hairs aren't clumped tightly together and her lash was perfect, adding just the right amount of drama without over doing it. Her lip and cheek color were refreshing too.

Take a look at the their looks below:

Lea Michele- Getty Images

Tia Mowry & Tamera Mowry-Housely

Tamer Mowry-Housley

Tia Mowry

Miley Cyrus

Remember,
~Beauty = Your Definition
Racquel Simone~

Red Tails Red Carpet Premiere - Tika Sumpter Shines

2012-01-11T16:52:00.000-05:00

Tika Sumpter stepped out to the "Red Tails" movie red carpet premiere last night looking fab as usual. I have to say that her makeup is flawless. The best part of it, to me was the blush. The lashes completely set the look off. Her Nicole Miller dress was nice, and slightly daring seeing as it has a summer time feel to it and we are in the winter season. Overall, this was a nice look for Tika. I usually like how she presents herself on the red carpet.

Remember,
~Beauty=Your Definition
Racquel Simone~

Sorry. I'm a Little Late!

2012-01-11T12:52:00.000-05:00

I am uber late, but I would most definitely like to wish all of you a Happy New Year! 2012 is here, and I am excited about it! There is so much in the works, and I could not be happier. My life is changing right before my eyes. It's a wonderful thing! The Lord is STILL good and I am 100% sure He will continue to be. My life isn't perfect, but it's perfect FOR me. I'd like to encourage you all to love harder this year, fight for what is right, stand by your convictions and pursue all of your dreams, with intention (even if it means moving across the country ;) Be sure to take time out for YOU. Don't forget to help others along the way! Get out of the box of conformity and live outside the lines. You may have to step out of the boat of comfort into the waters of discomfort, but the sacrifice will pay off! It's never too late. Stay consistent and live your life! Don't settle for an ok life. Do what makes you happy, not others! Enjoy your adventure called life and you just might look up and find that you've helped change the world!

Remember,
~Beauty=Your Definition
Racquel Simone~

Pin It

Beauty Craving - Bobbi Brown 20th Anniversary Lip Palette Limited Edition

2011-12-13T10:59:00.000-05:00

I. Want. This. The. End.

Bergdorf Goodman - $60

Remember,

~Beauty-Your Definition

Racquel Simone~

Paula Patton for Harper's Bazaar Arabia

2011-12-09T16:26:00.001-05:00

Paula Patton is turning the heat up with her cover for the latest issue of Harper's Bazaar Arabia. The garments, the hair, the makeup, all have an exotic appeal to them. This shoot is helping assist in her rise to the title of Superstar.

Photographer: John Russo

Makeup: Fiona Stiles

Hair: Robert Steinken

Styling: Sally Matthews

Remember,

~Beauty=Your Definition

Racquel Simone~

Tool To Keep? - Violight UV Cellphone Sanitizer

2011-12-09T08:56:00.001-05:00

A few days ago, I was doing a little research on a hi-tech beauty tool that I'm looking to invest in for my skincare routine. This post is not about that, but about a nifty little device I came across in the process. At first glance, I thought it was a speaker, or some kind of kitchen appliance. It turns out, it's a cell phone sanitizer! The Violight UV Cellphone Sanitizer goes for $36 on Amazon.com. Why am I so excited you ask? Well, we always hear about bacteria on cell phones and how it might lead to breakouts. I like this because you can sanitize not only your phone, but your mp3 player, and ear buds as well. Does it really work? The reviews are almost perfect on Amazon. As to whether or not it's really working? Well, I guess you'd have to wait and see if your skin stopped breaking out in the spots you use your cell phone in. It's interesting. I'm going to get it. Of course, you can always spray alcohol on your phone and then wipe it off. That would be too easy though, right? :)

Remember,
~Beauty=Your Definition
Racquel Simone~

Sam Fine for Fashion Fair - A Behind The Scenes Look

2011-12-05T09:22:00.001-05:00

This morning via Twitter, makeup artist Sam Fine released a behind the scenes look at the photo shoot that took place for promo of Fashion Fair's holiday collection for 2011, "Siren Call".

As the newly appointed Creative Makeup Director at Fashion Fair, Sam has managed to assist in breathing life back into a brand that many people had simply forgotten about. The collection features "forbidden reds and cool sultry greys". I myself am looking forward to purchasing a few items from the collection. All of the items can be purchased here. I'm excited about more new collections from Fashion Fair in the future.

Check out this video for a behind the scenes look!

Remember,
~Beauty=Your Definition
Racquel Simone~

Did You Know? - Zuca for Sephora - Pro Rolling Bag

2011-12-02T09:57:00.001-05:00

ZUCA has partnered with Sephora to create a Sephora branded line of this popular bag. I came across it because I'm in search of the perfect price for my ZUCA. I've both heard about and seen the ZUCA bags in action and they are everything they claim to be. The bag comes with multiple, interchangeable bags, as well as a ton of different compartments for all of your items. The bag is not, specifically, a makeup bag, but so many artists have found that it is ideal for packing up their kits in. The fact that it can also be used as a seat is definitely a bonus. Especially, if you have to be on set for long periods of time. While, I can't say that I necessarily plan to buy the Sephora branded version of the ZUCA pro bag, what I will say is that Sephora has managed to capitalize on market research and form both ideal, and credible partnerships with brands that are unique to the beauty industry. This partnership, however, shows Sephora's unique ability to not only maximize partnerships with other beauty brands, but also to take brands that function outside of the beauty spectrum and make them a part of their beauty family.

Click here to read a full product description and see photos of different views of the Sephora branded bag and it's compartments.

Click here to see other bags ZUCA offers.

Remember,

~Beauty=Your Definition

Racquel Simone~

Beauty Spotlight: Detroit's Own SUNNI - Bosnian Beauty On the Rise!

2011-11-30T11:00:00.000-05:00

Sunni is a radio personality who hosts a show on Washington D.C.'s Powerhouse; WPGC 95.5. She is originally from Bosnia, and she and her family escaped the Bosnian war. They settled in Detroit, MI and the rest is history.

I started following Sunni on Twitter earlier this year, by way of a friend retweeting one of her tweets. Shortly after, I remembered that this was the same Sunni that used to grace the radio airwaves here in Metro Detroit. She is a superb radio talent and has the perfect voice.
She totally destroys that saying that people in radio are not attractive. Sunni is beautiful! She always tweets pictures of her and her girls before, after, and during events. I noticed that Sunni was ALWAYS put together. With that in mind, I decided to ask Sunni to give us an inside look at some of her favorite beauty products. Read the interview below for that and a little more insight on Sunni. She's doing big things and I have a feeling we'll be seeing more of her on a much broader scale soon!

Racquel: Where are you from?
Sunni: Originally, Bosnia but I grew up in Detroit, MI.

Racquel: What is your title?
Sunni: Radio Personality

Racquel: If you weren't an on air personality, what profession do you think you'd be in right now?
Sunni: I would probably be a homicide detective, I love watching shows like The First 48 and Forensic Files, and I feel like I would really enjoy solving crimes.

Racquel: You are a girly girl clearly. Where do you pick up your beauty inspiration from?
Sunni: I'm always on beauty blogs, looking at magazines, or just some of my favorite celebrities, I love Rihanna's edgy style and also Beyonce's natural look

Racquel: What is true beauty to you?
Sunni: True beauty definitely comes from within. If you don't have a great heart then you're not beautiful, no matter how "attractive" you might be.

Racquel: What are your top 5 beauty products you can't live without?
Sunni: Hmmm I love my Bare Minerals make-up, Maybelline Falsies Eyelash mascara, Milani Secret Lipgloss, Chanel Coco Mademoiselle perfume and the Neutrogena make-up face wipes. I'm not very much into big labels. I've found some amazing things that work for me, and are available your local drugstore, plus they're affordable.

Racquel: What's on the horizon for Sunni?
Sunni: I've got a lot of things coming up but I'm going to focus more on TV. I've always wanted to get myself out in front of the camera and I'll have a chance to do that soon. Stay tuned :)

Check out her site: http://www.sunniandthecity.com/
Twitter: @SunniAndTheCity

Remember,
~Beauty=Your Definition
Racquel Simone~