Beauty Editor | Fresh Summer Glosses at Second City Style..

Yes, I love me a great lip gloss, and summer has some of the most beautiful colors. Think pinks, bronzes, corals, apricots, and shades of peach. However, knowing which color suites you is key. Universal shades are best, but be sure to try the color first or have someone assist you in color choices.

A gloss that is sheer and not too bold works great for summer, and a long lasting gloss with SPF helps as well. Here are some great choices for your makeup palette for summer!

Check out my favorite summer glosses at Second City Style!

Makeup Artist | Super Smooth Skin! Sugar Mama Honey Scrub

I'm usually not a fan of scrubs, because I use a loofah daily that seems to exfoliate me enough, however, I recently used Scrub that promised baby soft skin, and a ultra glow. Well what was it and did it perform? Yes!!!! Glowology's Sugar Mama Honey Scrub rawks, and I have to admit it is one of the best scrubs I have ever used.

I love that it is not as abrasive as other scrubs that seem to scratch the ever living mess out of you. The scrub has ultra fine sugar whipped into a honey and shea butter, and mildly exfoliating, which is even perfect for sensitive skin such as mine. It is packed with moisture, and leaves skin deliciously soft and supple.

I didn't want to leave the shower, my skin felt so good. It was buttery smooth, and left a beautiful glow. I didn't even have to apply lotion! If you are a fan of scrubs, or want super smooth skin, please try Glowology's Sugar Mama Honey Scrub, $26.00. You will not be disappointed.

This scrub was one of our winners for Second City Style's Beauty Olympics!!!

DC Wedding Makeup Artist | More Bridal Beauty Favs!

I have been so m.i.a... I started Wedding Season some weekends ago, and the weekends have become more and more hectic.. I guess that's a good thing, but I find myself not being able to post on my blog like I would like. Nevertheless, I'm back today!

I've been working with some beautiful brides this year, and can't wait for the remaining. I'm finding myself stuck with some really cool makeup, that I am using on a lot of my Brides this year. Every year, I'm pulling and trying new products to use to keep up with bridal trends and winning products, and I really think I have found a couple.

Well this staple has been one for a year or so now, but I absolutely can't start a face without using this.. (Thanks Victoria!).. its the Billy B. foundation brush. I got this at The Makeup Summit last year in NY, and purchased from Billy himself.. Ha, thanks to (@Victoria Stiles)she said I would never use another foundation brush, and she was right! I absolutely adore this little charmer. When I apply foundation it doesn't streak like other foundation brushes, and I never thought I would get away from my Armani Brush. I do still love it though ;) , But these are my staples for applying foundation, and I always get a seamless, flawless coverage.

Next in Bridal Beauty is any and every Makeup Forever Foundation I can think of. Makeup Forever Face and Body being a lifesaver! One past Wedding I had to use face and body for a Bridesmaid who was covered head to toe in hives.. Yes, huge blotchy hives. I felt so bad, but feeling bad was not going to save the day I had to dig into the kit. Luckily I had all of my bottles of Face and Body and went to work. The bride and everyone could not believe how much it camouflaged the hives. It was amazing, I may say.

For lips, I find myself staying really neutral and using a lot of lip stains. No bride wants to be worried with reapplying lip pencils, lipsticks, and gloss. So I usually go in with my favorite neutral lip pencils, and apply a lip stain afterwards, and blend, blend blend. One of my new favorite stains is Tarte Rise and Shine Lip Plumping Stain. Great for the just bitten' mouth, but also providing a natural lip color. A gloss on top is optional, but gives a pretty, natural finish to the lips.

I have so much more on my new Bridal Beauty circuit to share. I just wanted to share my lifesavers for the past few weeks! More to come soon.

Second City Style Beauty Olympics is here!

Second City Style Beauty Olympics is here! As Beauty Writer for Second City Style, many of my days and countless weekends have been spent testing hundreds of beauty products to find the best of the best in Beauty!
From glosses, to scrubs, to powders and liners, we tested everything, to make sure you know what product's work.

Here's one winner!

EYES
Cream Eye Shadow

Gold: Bobbi Brown Cream Shadows *Editor’s Pick $22“The coverage is fantastic and doesn’t crease or bleed!” —Kelley Epps-Woods, Second City Style Beauty Writer and Makeup Artist

Check out Second City Style Magazine to check out 2009 Beauty Olympics, to see what we have to say about the best of the best in beauty and who the winners are!

DC Wedding Makeup Artist | Bridal Beauty: Before and After 101

I had the honor and pleasure of working with a beautiful Bride this weekend in Arlington! It's amazing how just 5 months can make you feel as if you have known them forever. Bridal makeup gives a personal peek into the lives of the Bride, because doing some one's face is often a 'private' space. This is someone that is trusting you with their face, and most times your judgement. So, I take so much pride in building relationships with my Brides, as well as giving them the ultimate treatment in makeup.

Here are a few pictures of my Bride this weekend (her before and after). I will also give you a rundown of the products I used

FACE

Foundation/Powder:

Black Opal Foundation Sticks

(I can never go wrong with these sticks, I always find my shade)

MAC Blot Powder

MAC Mineralize Skinfinish for contouring

EYES

Eyebrows; 3 different MAC eyeshadows and Cappacino and Medium Brown pencil

(set with MAC Clear Eyebrow Gel)

Eyeshadow; Face Atelier eyeshadow in peach color and bone, Yaby Cosmetics eyeshadows in crease

Lined with Bobbi Brown Eye Gel in Black; lashes, and tons of Waterproof Mascara

CHEEKS

My favorite go-to's MAC Blush in Slave-to-Love, and Raizen, and MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Blush for highlight

LIPS

MAC Lip Pencil in Whirl, and a cappacino penicl, Sheer burgandy lip gloss on top

(the key was to make her lips neutral so touchups could be a breeze)

When I tell you she was flawless. She was flawless, the pictures doesn't do justice.. She said she had been getting microdermabrasionso her skin was very smooth. It made a huge difference with the application, and the foundation went on ultra smooth.She had the most beautiful weather I have seen for a Bride, and I know her Wedding Day was spectacular!

Kelley Epps-Woods, Beauty Writer

Lip Obsession ! Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tars

As a makeup artist, I am always looking for the next best lip product. I'm in love with gloss, but was taken aback when I discovered this new innovation in a lip product! These new gems by Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics called Lip Tar, are what a lip product is suppose to be! With the coverage of a lipstick and the application of a gloss, these pigmented colors, created the perfect satin finish!

Pic courtesy: OCC; OCC Lip Tar in Katricia
I call myself putting it on like regular gloss, but oh no! It was so ultra saturated with pigment that all I needed was a pin size amount . A little goes a very long way! They are so true to color that you may even need to sheer it out, with a clear gloss or tinted gloss (as well as for more glossiness.

Makeup Artist, it's even great for Hi-Def Video and Digital Photography, without it looking heavy. The come in 9 different shades, and are meant to be mixed with the range of colors including (black, white and a clear mixer).

Here are the shades! Fans of Ruby Woo?, check out the NSFW (Red)it is amazing!!!!

Here are a picture of a few of the Lip Tars!

left to right Lip Tar in Pageant, Melange, and Uber

You can find OCC Lip Tars at http://www.occmakeup.com/liptar.html , $12.50

Kelley Epps-Woods, Beauty Writer

Wedding Makeup Artist | 2009 BRIDES Beauty Awards!

It's that time of year for the BRIDES Beauty Awards 2009!!

The 2009 BRIDES Beauty Awards are here! This year, there are 75 favorites, in honor of BRIDES 75th Anniversary. Each item is perfect for a wedding-day arsenal in the categories of make-up, face, body, hair and tools. The BRIDES team has covered everything a blushing bride needs for her big day – and beyond. Some of this year’s favorites are: Revlon’s ColorStay Soft & Smooth Lipcolor; Aveeno Clear Complexion Cream, St. Ives Body Wash and much more!

To the Makeup Loft Readers enter to win one of over 2,300 beauty prizes including hair groomers, skin smoothers, makeup marvels, body buffers and more by going to: Brides.com Sweepstakes!

Project Runway's Christian Siriano Does Beauty....

Beauty Buzz. Designer Christian Siriano Does Beauty... at Second City Style...

Kelley Epps-Woods, Beauty Writer

Drugstore Makeup Finds! Beauty Buzz at Second City Style!

Check out some of my favorite Drugstore Makeup Finds at Second City Style!



Let me know some of your favorite Drugstore Makeup Finds!?? Leave a Comment..
(I know there are so many!)

Total Spring Beauty Look at Second City Style! Check it out!

Total Spring Beauty Look at Second City Style!..

There are some goodies on this Spring's beauty list... Kieh's Lip Glosses, and Anastasia Brow Gel are some of them, and I am eating them up!

Check out the complete look here! Total Spring Beauty Look

Kelley Epps-Woods, Beauty Writer

Cover to Cover Magazine Conference!

This weekend, I was honored and asked to speak at HU's 6th Annual Cover to Cover Magazine Conference. I will be speaking on the Blogger's Panel *The Secret Life of Blogs*, with the likes of such other well known Magazines. Focusing on the internet and the advantages of web presents, as well as how multimedia has changed journalism, and the how-to's of journalism and blogging.

HU COVER 2 COVER 6TH ANNUAL MAGAZINE CONFERENCE

Come join Cover 2 Cover in learning about the world of magazines. Hear top professionals speak about writing and editing for various types of magazines and newspapers.

*Learn how to build up your portfolio and market yourself as a journalist

*Learn about publishing and how a magazine company operates

*Learn how to set yourself up to one day present YOUR feature presentation.

This year's keynote speaker is Editor-in-Chief of UPTOWN Magazine Keija Minor.

Other Speakers coming are representing:
WASHINGTONIAN Magazine
The Liberator Magazine
HIPHOPRUCKUS.COM
Essence Magazine
KING Magazine
Washington Association of Black Journalists
ESPN Magazine
Second City Style/themakeuploft.blogspot.com & MORE

Host: Presentation is Free! COVER 2 COVER Magazine Group
Type: Education - Workshop
Network: Global
Date: Sunday, March 29, 2009
Time: 10:00am - 3:00pm
Location: Howard University's Blackburn Center
City/Town: Washington, DC
Email: c2c.conference@gmail.com

Any questions please e-mail c2c.conference@gmail.com

Super Shiny Puckers: Makeup Forever Glossy Full

Has your gloss ever been not shiny enough, or are you tired of your matte lipsticks. Well take your shine to another level with, Makeup Forever's Full Glossy. It's not just any ol' clear gloss,it produces a 'vinyl effect'! Makeup Forever's Glossy Full is ultra glossy lip plumping gloss, that gives the lip a vinyl-shine effect. It is colorless and non sticky (for those who tend to get there hair stuck in the gloss ;) .

For an ultra glossy effect, try this Glossy Full over your regular gloss. Talking about a high shine effect! I'm excited thinking about it..
If you want a full glossy color all-in-one, try Makeup Forever's Glossy Full Couleur. These ultra pigmented, gel-textured lip glosses are long lasting, and leaves lips with an ultra shiny, vinyl-effect.

Check out the Video to see Glossy Full in action!

Make Up For Ever Glossy Full, $20

Kelley Epps-Woods

It's a Sweet Sixteen!

Wanted to post something fun today.. Its Friday!! I wanted to share this earlier in the week, but had been so tied up with Editorial post, faces and such.. Nevertheless, I got to do makeup for a fab 'Sweet 16", that was so fun. I think I enjoyed so much, because I had no idea what I did for my 16th birthday.

I brought out all the tools for this one. I arrived to the home to start makeup, and my hubby was assigned photographer. Of course, she was gleaming and excited.. After makeup was done, we headed to take a few formal pics of her and her friends, and then headed to the party.. Let's just say I'm not sure who had more fun the grown ups, or the teenages..Lol.. Good times!
Here are few pics...

(Her and her friends on their way to the party)


(UHhh this cake looks so yummy!) -> (Her candy bar Decor)

Question and Answer: Oily Skin

Hello ladies, I hope you had a wonderful weekend. I had a hectic, but fun filled one and have pics to share! But I also, wanted to share with you a question, that I have heard from many of women, but also one that was sent it, and thought it may help you as well...

Topic & Question: Oily Skin

"I have a question that I hope you can answer or give me some insight.

I have extremely oily skin. It do not have acne. What can I do so my make up does not look like I have grease on my face. Please advise. "
Thank You,

The best thing for women with or without oily skin is a primer. Primers are great to smooth fine lines and wrinkles as well as prepare a smooth canvas for Foundation. However, in the case of oily skin, a primer with oil control would be perfect. What I use and still use for my clients that I found that works magic, with no oily breakthrough during the day is Iman Cosmetics Under Cover Agent Oil Control Primer. It is amazing. And even better you can find it at your local Target, or Walmart. If you are not using an oil free foundation, and need oil control this is the perfect Primer... Hope this helps!

Iman Cosmetics Under Cover Agent Oil Control Primer, $14.99

BOBBI BROWN Sale..

Great News! BOBBI BROWN is offering 25% off on all Bobbi Brown prodcuts for a few days only!

I know you just know my love for Bobbi Brown products, so if you need recommendations on products (colors, etc. ), please feel free to leave a comment.. I can tell you all of my favorites, and must haves.

Fabulous Brows: Vanity Mark

Hey everyone!... It's been a few days..I have been extremely busy with organizing home, business, and my Editorial work for Second City Style. But, I promise the neglect will be minimum.

I have a product I wanted to share with you, that yes, I have falling in love with... On the makeup front, I have been doing alot of natural beauty, and mostly for everyday women. So, I wanted to share this product with you that will put your whole look together.

What is this product you say? Well, I am totally loving Vanity Mark Eyebrow Pencils in Dark Choco. I absolutely have no brows, and really have to groom them in the morning. If I have not done my eyebrows, it throws off my whole look . When I discovered Vanity Mark Eyebrow pencils, I feel instantly in love. The color is phenomenal and is perfect for my brows, and not only that, they have somewhat like built in wax, and tames and lays down your brows as you fill them in. My brows do not move all day.

Because I use powders on brows for most of my clients, it is so refreshing to turn to this pencil to fill in the sparse areas, as well as groom the brows as well. It may be a tad expensive for what you may want to pay for an eyebrow pencil, but it works! From caucasian to african american women, there is one for you..

Check out their whole collection. I am a fan. Vanity Mark, $16

Peek-a-boo's No More! hip-T Giveaway at Second City Style!

Ladies, this is serious business! Are you low rider jeans riding 'too low', and/or tired of the embarrassing accidental peeks. Well let me introduce you to hip-T. No more unexpected peeks of your undergarments, and no more tugging and pulling.
Hip-T solves those problems by being extra coverage for under your shirts, and as a cute layering piece. I have one in black and white, and I love them! No more worries about bending over and giving someone a 'surprise'!

Check out our Giveaway at Second City Style! We will be giving away hip-T's to 2 lucky readers, with their choice of style and color.

Head on over to Second City Style! You guys will love them.. I promise..

New Obsession: Bobbi Brown Cream Eye Shadows

I have to admit, I was fumbling through channels the other night, and got glued to QVC. I'm so not ashamed, because when they have anything Beauty, I'm tuned in. Well, the other day I caught Bobbi Brown on there previewing, and demonstrating her Long Wear 3-piece Eye Set.

So, as I watch Bobbi do her demo for the stay put cream shadow, I said ohhh interesting. The color she was using was fab, and I will be now adding to my makeup haul. But, what really sold me what the host who had placed the cream shadows, and the cream liner on her hand, and rubbed to her heart's content, and it did not budge! Oh, I was so sold... See why does QVC do that to you.. *head down in palm*.. As the host states, "... 534 Units has just been sold"..

But, yes that's right Bobbi Brown Cream Eye shadows are a must. I have always loved her line for her modern every day colors for women. She has the most fabulous neutral colors, that I love to use for Brides. I was already sold on the Gel Eyeliners, and own several now, but now I will be adding the Cream Shadows...

Check them out here! Bobbi Brown Cream Shadows, $22

Kelley Epps-Woods

Venus Embrace... The Best Razor Ever..

Okay, I have never been one for shaving. First, it takes too long, and second,I never can manage a clean shave without nicks and cuts. It never fails. So, I had sworn off razors, and went other routes.
Well, that was until I tried Gillette's Venus Embrace 5 blade razor. One word, Amazing. I will never try another razor. I couldn't believe how effortless it was. I had to look at the razor to see if it was actually getting the hair!

With it's moisturizing band, it glided over the skin so easy, and even better I was nick free! My legs felt so luxurious, and has never felt so baby soft. I also love that it last longer than most razors, and I don't have to change razors every few days.
Now, I don't mind touching up here and there, because I know this razor works. This razor should win an award, and I'm not sure what took them so long for a razor like this!
If you are one for razors you MUST try this razor, and even if you aren't, you still must try this razor. It's amazing you won't regret it..

Gillette's Venus Embrace 5 blade razor, $13.99

Chic Feet: Pedi Couture Sandals at SCS!

Ladies if you are like me, I'm ready to ditch my boots, and slide in some sandals! But, with those sandals, there are the pedicures that are a must. But if you are like me, I absolutely despise those paper sandals that never stay on, or always fold under. It's a task just to keep them on, let alone walk. So save yourself the trouble, and get some Pedi Couture Sandals!

That's right, these super comfy sandals are made just for that special pedicure that will save you the hassle of fumbling with those paper slides. They come in array of colors and styles, and can be slipped on right before you get polished. Save yourself nasty smudges, and slip your feet into some of these.
Pedi Couture Sandals at Second City Style!