What's in My Vanity Kit?

This is a list of highly recommended beauty products that I want to share with you. Don't get me wrong, what might work for me doesn't mean that It would actually work for you, but these are sure worth a try!

With my line of work, I had to experiment with different kinds of makeup so I would know what will work for different skin types. Through this, I was able to find the perfect beauty products that suit me best! All products that you see here are tried and tested by me. these are basically what you will see when you rummage through my personal vanity kit. These are what I actually use almost everyday. Mine is actually just the basics, since I really opt for fresh and natural look. Ofcourse before I put these on my face, my skincare regimen always comesfirst..Will share this with you as well in the future.)

PRIMER: Oftentimes, my skin gets too oily..but then I prefer it oily rather than having dry skin as long as I don’t have breakouts I will be fine , I got no choice but to always bringwith me my ever dependable – JOHNSONS OIL CONTROL FILM…but then If you reallywant to have oil-free skin for a longer pd of time without having to freshen upeverytime., What I use is the ALL MATT Matifying Base formula from Makeup Forever. This product always works for me.

ALL MATT PRIMER

The All Mat Matifying Base formula is based on a oil-free powdered gel that is colorless andextremely comfortable to wear. It makes it possible to control not only shiny skin, but also variations in foundation color over time. Excess sebum is absorbed. The skin is perfectlymatt and soft to the touch, without a hint of shine. The complexion looks healthy, clear and fresh whatever the occasion.

BURTS BEESWAX LIP BALM MOISTURIZER

This natural lip balm moisturizes lips with ingredients like ultra-emollient lanolin, coconut oil and sunflower oil, and seals in hydration with beeswax. You can use it on healthy lips for a little peppermint tingle. Take your pick of an old-fashioned yellow tin or a recycled plastic tube.

MAC CONCEALER PALETTE

What more can I say I can’t live without this palette,it helps me cover up my dark circles and other skin imperfections!
Great color range. For a cream concealer with good opacity, try MAC’s Studio Finish Concealer Palette SPF 35. The wide color range includes a “Light” palette with pink, yellow, and caramel tones. The formula has good stick, yet blends out smoothly. Water-resistance and sun protection are big pluses.

FACE FOUNDATION: I only have two top choices when it comes to my everydayfoundation. I want it light, natural looking with minimal coverage that could also give my face the natural glow.

MAC MINERALIZE SATIN FINISH

A fluid foundation that blends the natural light-reflecting properties of micro-minerals with a smooth satin finish. Provides a low-to-medium buildable coverage with a skin-flattering, slightly luminous look. Helps make your skin appear, radiant, healthy, re- energized. Contains vitamins A, C and E to help nurture and condition the skin. Provides everyday broad spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 15 sun protection. Long-wearing. Good for all skin types. Especially suitable for normal-dry skin types.

SOME KIND A GORGEOUS Foundation Faker by BENEFIT This cream to powder formula means silky, even perfection for you complexion. So translucent, it THE perfect finish for most skin tones. It’s an instant “beauty boost” any time of day! I apply this evenly all over my face with accompanying sponge or even your fingertipswill do.

WHY WE LOVE IT:-Won the Ell Top 5 Award for the World’s Best Foundation-Voted “best foundation” by Brides Magazine

FINISHING POWDER: I have 3 choices for finishing powder. My makeup isn’t complete without this. These products set my foundation really well without the heavy cakey feeling. In choosing a inishing powderfor my skin I want those that give instant radiance and glow to my complexion without looking powdery or chalky.

RICE POWDER ORIGINAL RICE POWDER

I get my supply of this from Beauty Bar. You may also want to try their bronzer.Natural Rice Powder was discovered accidentally by renowned professional makeup artist – has been and still is the oldest of all trade secrets. It is used primarily as in oil absorbing highlighter and makeup setter. By absorbing excess oil, it could also maintain proper PH level to the skins mantle.

GEORGIA face Powder by BENEFIT
I use this as a blush or sometimes an overall face powder. Benefit lives up to its promise. See for yourself.
Product Description:Dust this peaches and cream powder lightly all over your complexion then brush on theapples of your cheeks for a warm happy glow. The sheer peach blush looks beautiful on all complexions, and the delicate peach scent will leave you radiating sunshine! Thepowder also looks great dusted on the eyelids.

DANDELION Face Powder by BENEFIT

Depends on my mood, dandelion or Georgia , both work great for me!

Product Descritpion:Start your day the “perk-me-up” way, and keep them guessing how you look so pretty this early morning. Dust on the soft, pin perk-me-up powder for instant radiance and a youthful appearance. It’s the perfect shade of pink that brightens everyone’s complexion.

BENETINT POCKET PAL by BENEFIT Those who have tried BENEFIT’s BENETINT will have to agree with me. This is simply one of the best discoveries of beauty gurus!WHY WE LOVE IT:This glossy color wand is your best beauty pal. A mini Benetint - the original andstill the best rosy lip and cheek stain is paired with a shiny clear gloss on theother end. Carry it in the handy pocket protector and you'll have kiss-proof, smudge-proof color with you wherever you go.

PENCIL EYELINER:

MAYBELLINE UNSTOPPABLE PENCIL LINER in BROWN
Why I’m loving this? Besides the fact that it’s definitely not pricey… Allows ultra-smooth application for defined lines and eyes . WHY WE LOVE IT:-Its self-sharpening propel/repel mechanical pencil-Doesn’t budge, hlds your look in place-Waterproof, all-day wear-Ophthalmologist tested contact lens safe and safe for sensitive eyes.

LIQUID LINER: I don’t use liquid liner on a daily basis. However, there are days when I feellike wearing a sexy look hahahah..to boost my mood perhaps? And when we talk about sexymakeup look…I always think of the “Cat eye Look” and I’m telling you from allthe liquid liner that ive tried, this product so far is the most précised in creating that perfect cat eye look.

SHU UEMURA LIQUID EYELINER with Cartridge refill A refillable, precise application liquid liner.What else you need to know:Intensely black eyeliner with a pointed felt tip. Allows you to achieve intensely dramatic eye designs with ease

MS POPULARITY by BENEFIT was quite hesitant to share this secret of mine :)) but then it would be unfair for me not to tell you about this wonderful find! My clients always ask for this product!

WHY WE LOVE IT:Turn up your "all that" appeal with Miss Popularity. All you need is this precision highlighter in all the right places and you're "all that" just like that. This soft white shimmering highlighter makes it so easy. The precision wand makes highlighting effortless to perk up your smile, "slimify" your nose, and put a little "oom-pah" around your cleavage

BIG BEAUTIFUL EYES PALETTE by BENEFIT Since I’m most comfortable to go natural for my everyday look. This palette is perfect for me. It has nice choice of earth colors!! Go natural to smokey , you will love its versatility , PLUS it comes in a very cute package, and since its travel-friendly,its perfect for women on the go!

WHY WE LOVE IT:This little kit with BIG results is all you need to define, contour and enhance your eyes. Benefit included everything you need to “go pro” with perfect eye shades and tools to createthat coveted contour look that everyone loves.-Voted “most valuable product” by Redbook magazine in 2006-Includes illustrated, step by step makeup lesson

BRUSHES: Okay, I may own quite a number of brushes that I use at work ..you see, I’m quite addicted to buying brushes but I don’t use them for myself hahahah I just love looking at them hahaha! ...But for me, I can live with 4 brushes. I love spending time making other’s people faces, but for myself, id rather go for the quickest , easiest way to look…presentable enough, that's also one of the main reasons why I invest on skincare because, when you have good skin, you don't have to pile on too much makeup just to look nice, thus you spend less time infront of the mirror isn't it? And when it comes to brushes these 4 tools are enough for me.

MAC SMALL ANGLED BRUSH # 263- I can go without the other brushes..but definitely not this one I’m quite OC when it comes to eyebrows hahaha.
For lining, shading or shaping the eye or eyebrow. Flat shaped with angled tip. Firmly distributes colour over the lid and into the corners. Synthetic fibre. Works with all formulas of eye colour.
MAC LARGE POWDER BRUSH # 150 Full and dense for dusting loose or pressed powder on face or body. This brush is particularly good for blush application with soft fibers that form a full, rounded shape. M·A·C professional brushes are hand-sculpted and assembled using the finest quality materials. They featurebirch, linden and ramin wood handles, nickel-plated brass ferrules.
MAC POWDER BLUSH BRUSH # 129
All-purpose for blush or face powder. This brush is particularly good for blush application. Thefibers are soft and form a full, rounded shape.

SUESH HILITER BRUSH This is my eyes’ best friend. It is usually used in the inner corners of the eyes for highlights, But I use this as an eye shadow brush whenever I apply only one color (which is btw, most of the time..im so lazy putting on my own makeup hahahha ) just a few stroke of this and I’m good to go…as in perfect application in an instant that’s why Im sooo loving this brush from Suesh.

That's all for now. Discovered a fab beauty product lately? It would be great if you could share it with me so i can try it myself.
Stay pretty everyone!

Have You Done the Sexy Sweep?

Have you done the sexy sweep?
That's Benefit's tagline for their bronzers.

I've always been a fan of bronzers, my personal favorite is this limited edition from Lancome - Star Bronzer Bamboo Powder. Too bad, when our house was burglarized early this year, one of the things that the burglars brought with them is my first traincase..and yes, my Lancome bamboo powder was there inside :( when I went to Rustans to get myself a new one..its no longer available.

Number 2 on my list , would be NARS' Laguna...NARS laguna has the perfect amount of shimmer , its suitable both for night time and day time use. This fantabulous product from NARS is always on the top list when it comes to bronzers.

Then I discovered Benefit's Hoola, what I like most about Hoola is that-- it has this soft matte texture,which gives your skin the most natural healthy looking tan. This suits best for daytime use since its matte and doesn't have the usual "bronzy-shimmer-glow"--which is by the way, best when used during a night out. And since its 100% shimmer-free, it can also be used for contouring. I also use this as eyeshadow :)

These bronzers are quite pricey though..specially Lancome. Good thing , there are alternatives. YES :) there is! and I discovered it accidentally .. I was doing my usual online shopping in multiply.. (MY SECRET INDULGENCE!..which is no longer a secret btw..) and I ordered some REVLON eyeshadow cream palette ..(can't help it , its 50% cheaper than the Revlon products being sold in the dept. store..who am I to decline such offer? hahah) anyway, the seller was too nice to give me a FREEBIE --> COVER GIRL press powder in TAWNY..I remember she was even apologetic because the shade is too dark for me..but then I think that's the reason why shes giving it for free and who am I to complain for a freebie right? hahaha. Apparently the texture and shade is almost exactly the same as BENEFIT's HOOLA! It was never a waste afterall and I intend to buy one again once I consume this...Covergirl is a good brand and its way way cheaper than BENEFIT. Hmm...I remember seeing a Covergirl counter in Robinsons Metro East..
PREP:
VMV Glykeros Moisturizer
Armada Face & Body Shield60
FACE:
Benefit Oh so Gorgeous Foundation faker
Benefit Face powder in dandelion for finishing
BLUSH:
Covergirl Press powder in Tawny


EYES:
Revlon Overtime Long wearing eyecolor in battle green
MAC Charcoal Eyeshadow
Maybelline Unstoppable in Brown
LIPS:
Bobbi Brown in Rouge
Benefit lip gloss

The Purple Glam

When I got nothing to do always look for Annette to practice my makeup skills :) she's been so polite she never said no haahah!

Annette was on her way to a party and I decided to use purple shades on her. I wanted a look that's chic and glowing at the same time, for a change I decided to use this color instead of the usual dark hues that we prefer to use during nightime. Who says you can't pull off this shadefor a night out?

GET THIS LOOK!

On Annette:

PREP:

Evian Face Mist followed by MAC Lightful Daily Moisturizer

FACE:

VOV concealer foundation cream - this fits Anet's skin perfectly, since her skin is dry her skin requires a cream based foundation all the time..This product from VMV is a foundation & Concealer in one costs around Php 300++ Very convenient to use specially if you are in a hurry.

EYEBROW:

MAC Charcoal eye shadow applied using the angledbrush.

EYES:

MAC EYESHADOW in Crystal

MAC EYESHADOW in Unorthrodox for hilite

MAC EYESHADOW in Shroom for basePLUM

EYELINER (forgot the brand) White eyeliner (got this from Beauty bar)

MS. Popularity by BENEFIT - Applied at the inner corner of the eyes.

Loreal Volumizing Mascara

LIPS:

MAC HUG ME

MAC LIP GLASS

MAC LINER in spice

CHEEKS:

NARS Laguna topped with MAC Pink Swoon

NARS ALBATROS for hilite

<--Still looking glam til the wee hours!

The Everyday Look

Whether you're a morena, a mestiza, or a chinita, there will always be a right makeup prescription for you. Dig in to your stash ..experiment and discover the best everyday look for you that's easy to achieve. Yes there are days I feel like wearing some bold colors just to boost my mood...but oftentimes I opt for the natural look, that's why I stick to earthtones...may sound boring to others but believe me, with a few tricks this will look far from being "boring" Don't you just love it when your makeup gives you that "natural glow"? A good makeup leaves you looking pretty without looking so well made up. Ofcourse its always a PLUS as in PLUS to have a very good skin to start with.. So always have a skincare regimen and never take it forgranted (CLEANSE, EXOLIATE, TONE & MOISTURIZE) Now let me share with you my secret to natural glowing look:)

• Some Kind-a Gorgeous - The foundation faker by BENEFIT - One word--- > MAGIC! This works wonders! want to have that satin soft finish skin without looking like you had a foundation on? This is the one.. PLUS it feels so light to the skin! Try it for yourself!


• DANDELION brightening face powder by BENEFIT - This is simply the best in giving your face that healthy glow! By using a big fluffy brush, dust it allover your face right after putting on the Some Kinda Gorgeous Foundation Faker..The result is simply...refreshing! oh..its smells great too!!
  
• NARS LAguna OR GEORGIA Face powder by BENEFIT - Choose among these gorgeous product and use as blush...everybody knows about the famous NARS laguna ! if you haven't ..well its about time
  
• MS. POPULARITY by BENEFIT- I ALWAYS use this to my brides..if you want that instant glow without looking like a disco ball this is definitely the one! This is so far one of my best beauty find! I simply can't leave home without this..Dot a small amount in the cheeks, forehead, chin and blend with your fingers. You can also try dotting a small amount in the corner of the eyes and blend to give it an instant pop! Its easy as 1 2 3! This prod definitely stood by its name! LUV IT!
  
• LIPS - Bobby Brown in Rouge is a good color to go natural or...(this is what i used in the pictures posted here..)
  
• BENETINT by BENEFIT - Need I say more? who doesn't know about this amazing product?by the way, You can also use this as a blush, nothing is more natural looking than the effect of Benetint.
  Lip glass - my MAC lip glass works really well when I apply it over BENETINT


• EYES - What I normally use is MAC charcoal eyeshadow , just wash entire lid with the color instead of trying to contour lids..again just blend blend blend. I usually skip the eyeliner but ofcourse its up to you. Just stick to the brown liner for a softer look.
  
• MASCARA - Clear mascara will do..or just a thin coat of mascara is enough to give your eyes some umph!Don't forget to curl your lashes!

That's it! How about you? What's your everyday look??

Smokin' Hot..Why Not?!

I sooo love the smokey look...I always have this thing for smokey eyes. I remember the days where I would literally beg for my friends to let me do a smokey eyes on them..I was a laughing stock believe me ..I always end up giving them that panda messy look. It was a disaster. I was frustrated.

When I started learning makeup from a pro, I eventually discovered tricks and tips that helped me have my own style of applying makeup..that of course includes the smokey look. As the saying goes practice makes perfect and finally I was able to do it! Now my friends are the ones looking for me to have their makeups done har har har! :))

One thing that you should always keep in mind in achieving this look is to ALWAYS keep it clean. That's the number 1 rule to avoid the so -called "panda look" Be sure to use the right concealer to cover up your under eye circles..otherwise, don't go for it.


When wearing smokey eyes, I want mine subtle..so I usually use gray shadow instead of jet black. <----that's me using MAC Print eyeshadow and MAC Frost for hi lite.

With these simple step by step guide..you're on your way to a Smokin Hot Look!

1. If you want the daring smokey look on you, use a black eyeshadow (like MAC eyeshadow in CARBON) Apply the shadow from your lash line until just below the brow bone (REMEMBER until JUST BELOW THE BROW BONE ONLY..or else, it will look messy!). I advise you do this gradually. Blend away any harsh lines. If my no.1 rule is to keep it clean..next to that would be to BLEND BLEND BLEND away!! no matter how much amount of shadow you apply, always blend away harsh edges. If you're able to do this, you can never go wrong :)

Tip: Before applying the black eyecolor, pat some loose powder in the under eye area. Just dump a small amount and let it stay there while applying your eye color. This will trap the excess black pigments that may fall from your eyelids why you re in the process of applying ...thus it will be easier for you to clean the under eye area afterwards by brushing off the loose powder. (remember..KEEP IT CLEAN.)

2. Use a black pencil or eyeshadow ( I love using MAC Khol or Makeup Forever eyeliner in BLACK) and line your upper and lower lashlines. You can smudge it with a cotton swab or sponge tip afterwards to give it a softer -well blended effect. Remember, a smokey look isn't complete without eyeliner!

3. Sweep on a layer of two of waterproof mascara. Like Shu Uemura Precise Mascara to pump up lash volume.

4. Hi lite your brow bone. This will polish your work. PLUS it will definitely enhance your eyes. Try using MAC rice paper or MAC frost. Just apply enough amount in the brown bone and BLEND BLEND BLEND..be sure that the black shadow and the hi liter meets perfectly by blending it.

For the cheeks, I usually use lighter shade for this look, same with the lip color so that your eyes remain to be the center of attraction. I like MAC Blush in Mocha Matte & MAC lip color in Hug Me. It actually depends on you, As you practice doing different looks you will discover your own style.

The possibilities are endless!!! Your creativity can run as far as you can imagine! If you can master the basic black smokey eye. You can definitely try other colors. For day to day look you can use shades of brown, then brush a bronzer on the apples of your cheeks, a bit on your nose and forehead..although this look is perfect for the dusky , even the fair skinned can wear it!! HOW? by using a foundation one or two shades darker than your skin tone.

How about using a green smokey look?

If you have the right shade of green...why not?? When using bold colors..the key is to keep it subtle and simple. Unless you're planning to model for a hi-fashion magazine. That's it! I hope i was able to be of help :)

If you have questions or comments you may reach me through my ym or email.

Enjoy everyone!!

BRIDES by Annevida

Eyes:

MAC Unorthodox MAC Print Makeup Forever Black eyeliner MAC rice paper for hi lite

Eyebrows:

MAC brow palette MAybelline unstopable in brown

Cheeks:

MAC pinch o peach MAC mineralize in shimpagne for hi lite.

Lips:

MAC HUg me MAC Lip glass for gloss

CREDITS:

Makeup By: Vida

Model:Corrine

Photo by: Jun Garcia

The Sweet Bride

My aim was to give the bride the natural blush look so I kept they eye color minimal...just a wash of pink and hililtes to open up the eyes ..notice the eyeliner i didnt made a full line..i used a yellowish liner from the inner corner to the center for softer, clearer and fresher look. Part of our training in makeup school is to make sure that the face is really clean before putting anything on the skin, if you think its inconvenient for you to have your model's face washed, be sure to atleast bring face wipes with you (I reccomend: Femme Fresh makeup remover wipes - you can get it at any watsons outlet)

PRIMER FACE:

MAC PREP + PRIME SKIN An ultra-fluid lotion formulated with special-effect silicones. Calms and soothes the skin, blots away excess oil, and evens out skin redness. Improves the laydown and application of foundation or powder LIPS: Burts Beeswax - my clients ohhh so love this lip conditioner because of its minty flavor..plus doesn't give that sticky feel on the lips !(you can get this from beauty bar..they always run out of stock though..)

EYE:

PREP + PRIME EYES A light textured cream to wear on the eyes as an undercoat to eye makeup. Primes the lids. Smooths textures, neutralizes lid colour. Use under eye shadow, pigments, paints and concealers.

FACE:

MAC Stuido Fix Fluid MAC Blot POwder (loose) used after concealing) MAC Select Sheer MAC mineralize Lightest shade for hi lite. MAC Concealer Palette - for unwanted marks/undereye circles. BENEFIT Ms. Popularity - to hi lite cheeks and collarbones.

EYES & BROWS: MAC eyeshadow n shroomfor base MAC eyeshadow n Sushi MAC Eyebrow palette Makeup 4Ever Black eyeliner MAC eyeshadow in Frost - used as eye liner. LIPS: Bobbi Brown in Rouge MAC Lip Liner in Spice MAC Tinted Lip Glass in Florabundance.

CHEEKS:

MAC Blush in Pink Swoon BENEFIT MS. Popularity - for hilite.

CREDITS:

Makeup By Vida

Model : Jean

Photo By: Jun Garcia