Second City Style Beauty Olympics!! | Makeup Artist

As Beauty Editor at Second City Style, for months our staff, and some select loyal readers, tested hundreds of products to find the best of the best in beauty! And I am pleased to announce that the RESULTS are in! Check out Second City Style for the best in Makeup, Skincare, Hair products and Gadgets!

Check out this years Second City Style Annual Beauty Olympics 2010 Medalist!

FACE Stockholm Get's US Ready for Spring: New Nail Shades

Every since I fell in love with Face Stockholm's eyeliner, I have been an avid fan. So, of course I keep an eye on anything that comes out from Face Stockholm. And it's that time of year where it's getting warmer and our bi-weekly mani/pedi becomes necessary. So, I was pleased to see these little delectable shades of polish in yummy colors.

Face Stockholm is introducing some fabulous New Non-Toxic Nail Shades that will flatter anyone. From hot pinks, metallic turquoise, yellows and bright greens and everything in between. It's spring ladies so let's get those fab mani's and pedi's!

WISH UPON A WEDDING | Make Dreams Come True | DC Makeup Artist

WHAT IS WISH UPON A WEDDING?

WISH UPON A WEDDING PRODUCES WEDDINGS AT DESTINATIONS ACROSS THE NATION FOR TERMINALLY ILL INDIVIDUALS. REGARDLESS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION. WITH TWETNY CHAPTERS ACROSS THE NATION. WE ARE READY TO BEGIN MAKING DREAMS COME TRUE!

*WANT TO HELP GRANT A WISH?

YOU CAN HELP MAKE WEDDING WISHES COME TRUE IN A VARIETY OF WAYS! WE ARE ALWAYS EXCEPTING DONATIONS, AS WELL AS ENDORSEMENTS AND CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS. ARE YOU AN INDUSTRY PROFESSIONAL. WE ARE IN NEED OF WISH GRANTERS NATIONALLY! FROM CATERERS TO PHOTOGRAPHERS TO DJ'S (AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN) WE NEED YOUR HELP. VISIT OUR SITE TO FILL OUT A QUICK APPLICATION FORMA ND HELP US GRANT WISHES!

*DO YOU WANT TO HAVE YOUR WEDDING WISH GRANTED?

WE ARE HERE TO HELP! PLEASE VISIT OUR WEB SITE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE

WISH GRANTING PROCESS AND WHO CAN APPLY. TO BE CONSIDERED AS A WISH RECIPIENT YOU CAN ALSO QUICKLY FILL OUT AN APPLICATION ONLINE.

For More Information, please visition www.wishuponaweddingorg.

BRIDAL SHOOT Product Peek! | DC Makeup Artist

It's not rare that I will share what products I used on a shoot..I'm always trying great products, and would like to share certain products that I use. Besides, its no fun to eat a great casserole, and not know what's in it ;). Brides and bridal shoots are my favorite, because its the time when you are trying to enhance their beauty the most. You definitely don't want to take away from any of their features, you just want to enhance... So here is some of the products used to achieve the look of the model above.

For Bridal shoots, I like to use an array of foundations, however I love working with Makeup Forever Foundations. Not only are the budge-proof, but they give a beautiful finish. Stay put makeup is definitely key for bridal:

On top, I like to use a blot powder like MAC's Loose Blot Powder

For eyes, waterproof and smudge proof is key, so I like to use Urban Decay's 24/7 Eye Liner, or MAC's Powerpoints. Any waterproof mascara will do but I do like to use Loreal Voluminous Waterproof Mascara.

For eye shadows, I like to layer with a great holding base, and use my favorite palette by YABY COSMETICS. Love love love this palette.

For cheeks, I like Nars blushes, like Love Joy, Taj Mahal, Orgasm, or MAC's Slave to Love and Raizen.

For lips anything goes, but you definitely want something that wears good, and doesn't have much transfer. I like to use a stay put lipstick first and then layer lightly with a shiny gloss just in the center like Nars Glosses, or Dior glosses. Favorite Nars glosses include, Dolce Vita, and Orgasm.
To to the look off in areas that need highlighting and bronzing, I use Givenchy's Bronzer where needed.

These are just some of the products I use, but use many many more depending on client. These were some of the products use for the look above, give or take a few products..

If you have any questions, regarding any products, or recommendations please let me know

New York Fashion Week Fall 2010 Backstage at Luca Luca | Makeup Artist

Go backstage with me at Luca Luca Fall 2010 Collection at New York Fashion Week for Second City Style.

Check out what MAC Key Makeup Artist James Kailardos inspiration was for the line.

It's all here at Second City Style.com

AMBI Flawless Beauty Contest | DC Makeup Artist

ENTER The AMBI FLAWLESS BEAUTY CONTEST

Join AMBI® in a celebration of flawless beauty - the inner and outer qualities exhibited by a woman in your life who is most inspiring and empowering. Nominate yourself or another phenomenal flawless beauty and you could win an amazing New York City trip including a chance to attend the 2010 BLACK GIRLS ROCK! Awards

• $1,000 spending spree
• Transportation and hotel
• Dinner at a trendy restaurant
• A year's supply of AMBI® products

ENTER HERE!

Beauty Rave: Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Hand Cream..

There's rarely a time that I don't need hand cream. It's freezing out, but even in the summer I'm running for a hand cream. My skin gets that dry. So, I'm always looking for the best hand cream, and was unexpectedly surprised to find a hand cream by one of my beloved counterpart favorite Elizabeth Arden's 8 Hour Cream. Yes, that's right not only is there the 8 Hour Cream, but there is an Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Hand Cream.

I love this hand cream. Not only is it rich and soothing, but it kept my hands moisturized for quite a while. Being obsessive as I am, of course I applied it again and again. This is definitely one moisturizer to keep in your bag. Just as the regular 8 hour cream, you can still apply this to your elbows, or dry places where needed. It's just that rich. I'm never leaving home without it!

You can find Elizabeth Arden's 8 Hour Hand Cream, and other 8 Hour Products at Elizabeth Arden.com

DiorShow Extase | DC Makeup Artist | DC EYELASH EXTENSIONS

If anyone knows me you know I am about Dior Mascara. I am a mascara junkie and nothing has pulled me away from my Dior Show BlackOut, and I have tried alot. I have the skimpiest lashes, and it's nothing like rich,lush lashes that have some major volume and curl.

So, yesterday I happened to walk myself on in to Sephora, to do a little browsing and pick up a few things, and I noticed a new mascara from Dior. The rep said it wasn't suppose to be out on the shelves yet, but she pulled one out for me. Of course I'm hesitant to try anything new, hoping not to get converted to something else, because my loyalty is so strong. But, without hesitation I gave this new mascara a try, and all I have to say is 'Oh my'!.. Dior's new mascara, DiorShow Extase Mascara, is trying to pull my leg..

What was so different about this mascara, Well, It did the same thing for my lashes as DiorShow Blackout, except this one gave me a little more length and curl. The mascara claims to plump lashes from the inside out, and can wear this alone or with other Dior mascaras.I found the formula was a tad lighter than DiorShow Blackout, and didn't clump as much. I loved the head on the brush, and overall I found it a wonderful mascara.

What it does: DiorShow Extase provides built-in treatment benefits and high-impact lashes in a single stroke! The spherical-shaped Black Pearl Pigments create a 3D volume effect and the exclusive Metamorphosis Powders expand in size by up to 50% after application. Also, SR38 Patented Ceramid brings additional care, reconstructing damaged lashes and promoting stronger and fuller lashes.

What else you need to know:The Extase mascara features a "Tiered Brush" that is inspired by the "tiered" couture dresses created by the House of Dior. The brush is designed for performance and contains an Exclusive Duo of Fibers: The Black Elastomer Fibers brush out and define the lashes for panoramic fringe and the Gold Nylon Fibers hold and deposit formula, generously coating each lash for outstanding volume

So was I converted? , I won't say I'm ditching my BlackOut, but I may use both of these on a daily basis. Let's just say I have added a new mascara to my collection.

We love!

EYELASH EXTENSIONS OFFERED by Kelley Woods... see www.facemode.com !!

New Photos! Makeup by Kelley Woods | DC Makeup Artist

It's been a while since I have done a photo shoot, with so much that has been going on this year. But, I was able to sqeeze one in with the fabulous Alexey, and model Kaylie... This time I did makeup/ and hair, and was able to have a little creative freedom. However, she was a natural beauty, so I kept it basic ;)

Here goes...

Sam Fine Graces DC... | DC Makeup Artist

Before I even got into makeup Mr. Sam Fine was a staple name in my vocabulary. He was everything I knew about makeup. I would just sit in my room and study his books, mesmerized in how did he get those brows? , how did he achieve such flawless skin? Not to mention, the many faces I have seen in Essence Magazine... Well, this past weekend I got to meet Mr. Sam at his DVD Launch in DC and, Sam Fine is fine.. Fine in personality, style, and of course that contagious smile.

The day was filled with of course, Q&A.. .and lots of laughs from Mr. Sam... how did I not know he was so funny... stitches!... and of course a demo on what he does best..Faces!..and One word... Fab!... Of course, we all held our breaths and he made us, because the last step was his signature brows... and oh boy... My mouth was just open... Nothing compares to the brows this man does!

Needless, here are a few pics from the day... and he was able to give me that 'fall in love' smile..! Gotta love him...

Makeup Artist | Bridal Beauty: Before and After

Its been a while since I posted some hot makeovers. Well this weekend, I worked with a Bride who has actually already been married, but was taking Bridal pics again. So, this was her time to get extra glammed for her new photos. I already thought she was beautiful and couldn't wait to see what we could create. Well..... here she goes!






Here's a little inside to what I used on her:
For Face I used Black Opal Stick Foundation, and MAC Blot Loose Powder (can't live without this!)
On her Eyes, I used Yaby's Neutral Palette, with MAC Brown Down in Crease.
I lined the eyes with FACE Stockholm Liner Pen (love love love!), and used a set of side lashes
For cheeks, NARS Love Joy Blush, and Givenchy Bronzer Powder used to highlight and contour.
For lips, DIOR's Linen Beige Gloss was used, over lipstick,

In the end, she loved it!

Kelley Epps-Woods

Cleansing On-The-Go

We have all dreaded that late night cleansing!.. There are several nights I reached for baby wipes in hopes of atleast getting part of the days grime off... Needless, I had to upgrade from baby wipes and get a little more sophisticated ;) lol... So, with that.. here are some of my favorite cleansing wipes and solutions, so you too will not reach for the baby wipes.. (Ha! I still secretly do sometimes... shhhhhh)

Check it out on Second City Style: Beauty Treatment. Two Minute Cleansers

Makeup Artist | Sam Fine giving us The Basic of Beauty; DVD

For as long as I can remember, Sam has been one of the leading makeup artist I have been following. Everything about Sam is fine...

His Work, His Attitude, His Ethic, and His Poise. Sam has got it all. With a copy of all of his books, I have spent many of nights buried in them. So I am so pleased to see the release of his DVD! From the preview clips it looks like Sam is putting it all for us to see in it. How great is that. Just starting in makeup?, Brushing up your craft?, Need to learn how to apply foundation correctly ?, get those eyebrows just right ?

You need to run.. No Click as soon as possible on Amazon, and get his DVD, SAM FINE MAKEUP DVD:THE BASIC OF BEAUTY!

Speaking of Mr. Fine..

Watch this beautiful Video with Iman, and Iman Cosmetics

Makeup Artist | It's About That Time! The Makeup Summit; Miami & Chicago

It's almost time for The Artist Summit Miami & Chicago ! For pro makeup artist, aspiring makeup artist, and even veterans, this Summit is for you! I attended my first Summit a few years ago in New York and it was the best time ever. Can I just say that Mr. Michael DeVellis greeted me at the door! ..Who does that?! Him of course, because he's just that great...Okay, anyways, if you ever wanted to know the inside to the industry this is the place to ee. Not only are there the industry's leading artist teaching you what they know, but you get to network with other artist, and what else........wait for it......... shop!.. umm hmm.. Yes, the industry's leading Brands will be there to serve you up your fix of makeup sensation.

Please, don't ask what I bought last time... No comment.

Needless to say, get there! The Makeup Summit Miami Oct 3-5, and Chicago Oct 10-12.

THE ARTIST SUMMIT

The Artist Summit is three day artist program for those in the professional makeup artist and beauty industries. The program consists of three days of artist events including seminars, hands-on workshops, panel forums, evening events and The Summit Shop - a unique pro-focused retail environment.

An opening event on the evening of the first day of the Summit will also be a part of the program. Over the three days of the event attendees will have access to over 75 makeup and beauty related educational and career building events.

WHEN & WHERE
The Artist Summit Miami will take place from October 3-5, 2009
Miami Beach Convention Center - education hall B
1901 convention center drive
Miami Beach FL enter Washington Avenue entrance
http://www.miamibeachconvention.com

The Artist Summit Chicago will take place from October 10-12, 2009
River East Art Center
435 E Illinois St
Chicago, IL
http://www.rivereastartcenter.com

WHAT TIME?
The Artist Summit education program runs from 9:00AM - 6:30PM Sunday and Monday
The Summit Shop is open Saturday 4:00PM-7:00PM and from 10:00AM - 6:00PM Sunday and Monday
Career and Industry Night at The Artist Summit will be held at The Summit Shop on Saturday from 4:00PM - 7:00PM

ATTENDEE PARTICIPATION
The Artist Summit is open to professionals in the makeup and beauty industries including all freelance artists, retail and salon artists, students of makeup or beauty related curriculum, cosmetics executives and retail managers, buyers and retail shop owners, and so on.

Students currently enrolled in a school receive 50% off any listed rate. Call our 866.876.9337 number to register.

CAREER NIGHT $65.00 *(Free for All Summit Passholders)
Meet agencies, industry business experts, brand owners and artists who can help push your career to the next level. Shop The Summit Shop. Provides access to Summit Opening Reception.

ONE-DAY SUMMIT PASS $65.00
Provides attendees the opportunity to attend all seminars, forums and keynotes. Provides access to participation in hands-on workshops, which are at an additional fee of $95 per workshop. Provides access to Career Night and Summit Opening Reception.

TWO-DAY SUMMIT PASS $125.00 *
Provides attendees the opportunity to attend all seminars, forums and keynotes. Provides access to participation in hands-on workshops, which are at an additional fee of $95 per workshop. Provides access to Career Night and Summit Opening Reception and Closing Night Party.

ALL ACCESS SUMMIT PASS $290.00 *
Provides attendees the opportunity access to all seminars forums and keynotes. Includes two hands-on workshops. Additional workshops would be at the rate of $95 per workshop. Provides access to Career Night, Opening Night Reception, Sunday Sponsor Reception and Closing Night Party.

Day One:
Makeup 101 - Full-day Intro to Makeup Artistry
Space is limited to 20 attendees
Space is limited to 20 attendees
Career Night & Opening of The Summit Shop
Art Center Open Studio and Summit Reception

Day Two:
Opening Keynote
The Summit Shop Open
Full-day of Education
Closing Keynote
Evening event

Day Three:
Opening Keynote
The Summit Shop Open
Full-day of Education
Closing Keynote Panel
Closing night event

*included workshops do not include makeup 101 or Styling 101 full-day workshops

Makeup Artist | New York Fashion Week Backstage: Baby Phat and Nanette Lapor

I'm long overdue and between traveling and clients realized I have not recaped New York Fashion Week. NYFW was exhausting and exhilarating all in one and I must must must give you the recap from the shows. This year, as Beauty Writer reported for Second City Style, for the Baby Phat Show and Nanette Lepore.

Check out Kelley Backstage at New York Fashion Week '10: Nanette Lapore

Can I say Kimora's Show was more than stellar. With a front row seat at The Renaissance Hotel Inglot Cosmetics Party with Felicia from ThisThatBeauty, and The Powder Group team, I couldn't ask for a better viewing, after the wrap up coverage from backstage.

Check out Kelley Backstage at New York Fashion Week '10: Baby Phat

Kelley Epps-Woods

DC Makeup Artist | New York Fashion Week and Other News...

I have been distant from my Blog, and feel so bad.. But, this month has been really hectic. I have some wonderful opportunities brewing, and New York Fashion Week being one. I will be reporting as Beauty Editor for Second City Style at #NYFW. I'll be in NY next week Monday -Wednesday, and can't wait to connect with my beauty blogger friends (ThisThatBeauty, hey!), and fellow makeup artist.

I also have a some exciting news for Monday with my client Dr. Ro, and can't wait to announce... So never the less, next week is jammed packed, and I'm gearing up...

I'lll be reporting to you via Second City Style, and right here on at The Makeup Loft.

Also, if in NY, and I know DC is also supporting, Check out Fashion Night Out with the local retailers.

(Source: FashionNightOut.com) In the United States, American Vogue has joined with NYC & Company, the City of New York, and the Council of Fashion Designers of America to enliven again the consumer spirit that churns the economy and boosts the local industry of America’s fashion capital, New York City. Next only to finance, fashion is the second-largest sector of industry in New York City—the headquarters of more than 800 fashion companies employing 175,000 people and generating $10 billion in total wages. At City Hall’s May 20 press conference to announce Fashion’s Night Out, Vera Wang said, "To put it bluntly, if people don’t shop, people lose their jobs."

The first evening of New York Fashion Week, Fashion's Night Out will encompass festivities galore— from inventive window displays to model and celebrity appearances. Champagne may flow; hors d'oeuvres may be passed. Rumors of musical performances, downtown barbecues, shoe capsules, limited-edition rings, and sweepstakes abound. Apparently there will be makeovers, brow bars, and haircut stations at sundry spots, too.

Okay, if you are reading this Blog, who's gonna be there?! If you are let's connect...!

DC Makeup Artist | MAC Behind the Scenes! Testing M.A.C. Makeup for Fashion Week

Wanna know how they get the looks for New York Fashion Week? What will be hot for the season? Then take a look at this article on MAC Behind the Scenes.

This is one of the most interesting article I have seen regarding the makeup process for New York Fashion Week. As I gear up for Fashion Week, I can't help but get caught up in the tweets, news, and articles. Just wanted to share the article for those attending and those who, heck, just love makeup.. Enjoy!

MAC Behind the Scenes! Testing M.A.C. Makeup for Fashion Week

DC Wedding Makeup Artist | Bridal Beauty

After a month and a half break, I am back to doing Weddings! It was so refreshing to be back and doing what I love. I had a beautiful Wedding at the Grand Hyatt today. A party total of 7.

The bride was naturally gorgeous, so her face was a playground. When I first had the trial with her, I had just received alot of beauty goodies, that I was dying to try, from Rock and Republic, La Praire, Estee Lauder, and others. And the products worked out beautifully.

Amazing Products, Happy Bride!

So, just what did I use...

For Skin : Makeup Forever Mat Velvet Foundation,

MAC Loose Blot Powder

Cheeks: Nars Orgasm, Rock and Republic 'Spank'

Eyes: Estee Lauder Eyeliner in Coffee on bottom, Bobbi Brown Gel Liner 'Black' - on top

Side lashes, Estee Lauder Eyeshadows - Vanilla, and Copper in crease

Lips: MAC Whirl Lip Pencil; and MAC Hug Me Lipstick

Bare Minerals Bronzer; as well as Givenchy Sun Bronzer

Below: (c-cc) Nars Orgasm Blush, MAC Blot Powder, Givenchy Sun Bronzer, Rock and Republic Blush 'Spank', Makeup Foreover Mat Velvet, Estee Lauder Eye Shadow in 'Copper', and MAC Whirl Lip Pencil

Makeup Artist | Armani gives us Smokey! Eyes to Kill Palette

As a makeup artist I love a good smokey eye. But, when one thinks of smokey I they think dark browns, and blacks. However, a smokey eye can be actually created with any color,and that's why I am loving Armani's new Smokey Eye Shadows, Eyes to Kill Palette.

How genius and gorgeous. For those of you who are challenged when it comes to creating a smokey eye, you will be happy to know that these shadows come with coordinating colors to create the perfect eye.

Still need help? Give your girl a call and we can make that smokey eye happen!

Makeup Artist | Beauty Drugstore Finds on a Dime!

I know we all hit up the drugstore for our makeup fix! It's not all about the $ 25 dolloar mascara's and pricey foundations. There are great finds at the drugstore, and I'm sharing some of mine.. Indulge! Drugstore Finds on a Dime