Mirabella signature brushes

I had the distinct privilege of attending a launch event for Mirabella in Flatiron’s Antonio Pietro Salon. A privilege, because I was clearly surrounded by people who so unabashedly love their brand. Not that most industry people seem unenthusiastic about their products, of course, but there was something special about this particular group of people that had me glowing. If I may psychoanalyze for a moment, I’d say that that particular joie de vivre may have been inspired by hope. This event, while ostensibly a launch for Mirabella’s (gorgeous) new Madame Rouge line and to preview their new (achingly beautiful) signature brush collection, it was really about letting the world know about Mirabella. The Mirabella people buzzed about getting the word out, and they hoped we would receive it well.

Mirabella cosmetics

Mirabella event

For ten years, Mirabella has been a leading salon makeup brand and had a vibrant online sales community, but they had never relied on media to get the word out about their products. Honestly, I simply can’t figure out why they would have kept mum in such a way, but I guess sometimes the best things are kept a secret. Thankfully, though, Mirabella is no longer a secret to me, and it’s no longer a secret to you.

Mirabella blush palette

I haven’t tried all of Mirabella’s products so I’ll focus on the ones I have. As I mentioned, their new signature brush collection, which launched in January, are so beautiful aesthetically, but also, they’re incredibly high quality. They remind me very much of MAC brushes. Absolutely soft and the application is flawless and smooth. I am in love. Their blush palettes are also gorgeous. I loved chatting with the adorable Amber Bowen, Mirabella’s creative director, about the product creation. She explained—with contagious pride—that all of the products are “clean luxury,” in that Mirabella’s focus is on making organic and mineral-based makeup, but only to the extent that it doesn’t sacrifice pigmentation or staying power. It’s like baking chocolate chip cookies with half whole-wheat and half white flour. You want the health value of the whole wheat, but not so much that it would sacrifice taste of the cookie.

They served my absolute favorite dessert: macaroons!

But my favorite product was the new Madame Rouge Velvet Lip Pencils. They are to die for.

Mirabella Velvet Lip Pencils

I was treated to a lipstick application by a Mirabella makeup artist, and the application was so soft I couldn’t believe she had actually given me a full red lip until I looked in the mirror. The color was rich and vibrant. I was literally stunned. The stuff is lighter than air. And one thing Mirabella doesn’t advertise about is that it’s incredibly long-lasting. Of course, with any red lipstick, you’ll need to be sure to treat the area immediately around the lip with foundation or a blocking product so the color doesn’t bleed onto your skin. But either way, you’ll notice that the color stays on for a shockingly long time. Ultimately, it seems clear that the people at Mirabella have a good reason to hope. Their products, as far as I can tell, seem well primed for a cult-like reception.

Me and Amber Bowen, Creative Director, post red-lip application

A grainy pic of me in the crushed velvet. It's a bit pinker in real life, but this shows you just how rich the color is.

“Like” Beauty and the Feast on Facebook
Follow Beauty and the Feast on Twitter

Jane Iredale Just Kissed Lip and Cheek Stain Forever Pink

.

Jane Iredale Just Kissed Lip and Cheek Stain Forever Pink

This thing is incredible. True to the Jane Iredale line, it’s loaded with natural ingredients like softening olive and avocado butter, and rose flower wax to moisturize. The company claims that the pink actually “adjusts” to your body chemistry to flatter your natural undertone. I was trying to sleuth around to figure out how that happens, and I’m finding that it’s not totally accurate, but it will apparently change slightly according to your body’s pH level. That said, I personally find the pink is one that would be universally flattering because it has a very natural flush of color.

Before and after pics

As you can see, the change is so slight — just a punch up from my natural pink.

I’ve tried to use it on my cheeks too, and it really shows up! Just apply a streak and blend with your finger. It shows up as a very slight pink that can be set with powder. The price will run you about $25 which seems a little steep for a balm. But if you consider that you’re really getting two products in one, it sort of justifies it. For me, something that helps me finally achieve that touch of a non-garish pink makes it totally worth it.

x
Shy

“Like” Beauty and the Feast on Facebook
Follow Beauty and the Feast on Twitter

I’m so bored of my makeup. I have put lipstick and lip gloss shopping off so long, that I’m reaching the bottom of my stash. I hesitate to admit that I have used my faves so sparingly that I’m still nursing some of the products I received when I was at Town & Country — ahem, that was four years ago. (Okay, five years ago. I know, I know!).

Senna Cosmetics lipsticks in Tiffany, Paris Pink, and Glint

I can’t help it.  I am so pale and picky that I find lipstick and lipgloss shopping a hit or miss situation–usually, it’s a miss.

Senna lipstick in Glint

Lipstick can be hard to find because many formulas are either too matte and dry, or way too sheer.  It’s pretty much the same with glosses–they range from sticky and dry to slick and greasy…and don’t get me started on colors! Some colors are just so bold, they make us look like we should be hanging out in a nursing home instead of a beach. We uber-pale people sometimes want to have a more natural, pretty look.

Faced with the fact that I need to dip my toes into the glossy lipwear waters, I decided to report back to you during my hunt for new beauty booty.  In agreement with Shy’s previous post, my friend Tiffany reminded me about her love of Senna Cosmetics.  She suggested I stop by Senna’s studio or the counter at Beauty Collection.  So they were my first stop. I spent over an hour working my way through Senna’s products, so I figured it was time to contact the company for more details on the brand and try out some of their best and brightest (not literally, of course) products.

Senna lipstick in Tiffany

Tiff swears by Senna and I can see why.  Many of their shades are soft and wearable. The textures vary and they have a variety of formulas to choose from, but I really liked the buttery feel of their cream lipstick. I have it in “Tiffany” (no pun intended and no relationship to my friend), which is a peachy pink shade. I like it so much that I will be going back for Suede, a nude color that seems to suit my pale skin with yellow undertones.

Three other hits from the Emmy award winning makeup artist created brand include:

“Glint”: a sheer pink lipstick with flecks of gold. It’s SPF 15, but I probably cancel that sun protection right out when I plop about one pound of clear lip gloss right on top.

Senna's Glint

Double Dose Lip Lacquer in Sugar & Spice got me a whole lot of head turns. I had to use clear lip gloss (I use NYC, as favored by Kim Kardashian) on top of this because the formula was pretty dry. Believe it or not, I liked that the formula of this gloss wasn’t liquid smooth because it had some serious staying power. When combined with a clear gloss, the particles of shimmer created a lot of depth. It was a very beautiful look–especially at night!

Sugar and Spice

Sugar and Spice - peach tone

Sugar and Spice - beige tone

Lip Sync in “Paris Pink” gives you a full-sized lipstick and gloss in one sleek, double-sided package. I’m not sure what type of magical mica Senna uses in its lip gloss formulas, but I like it! This gloss didn’t last as long because it was much more thin and spreadable than the Double Dose Lip Lacquer, but it was equally stunning. Combining the lipstick and gloss together made my pink pout pretty for a good two hours and left a feminine stain after that.

Paris Pink lipstick and gloss

Paris Pink lipstick

Paris Pink lipstick + gloss

Next I want to try their Firefly duo, which is a peachy golden lip pair. But so far, I’m pretty happy with my Senna goodies. Have you ever tried Senna?

“Like” Beauty and the Feast on Facebook
Follow Beauty and the Feast on Twitter

AQUAFINA FLAVORSPLASH LIP BALMS ($5 FOR 4)

Aquafina FlavorSplash Lip Balms

Aquafina, better known for their bottled water, is working hydration from the outside-in. I suffer from constantly-chapped-lips syndrome (*not a real condition, but that’s besides the point). These FlavorSplash balms have a fresh, light flavor, and keep my lips full and smooth with its jojoba and almond oils (especially important if I know I’m going to be wearing matte lipstick later on…these have definitely come to the rescue). And they’re so tiny, they literally fit in my pocket. I take one of these wherever I go. Comes in Original, Raspberry, Wild Berry, and Citrus Blend.

POND’S WET CLEANSING TOWLETTES ($5 FOR A 30 PACK)

Pond's Morning Refresh Towelettes

Microbeads

I’m in the school of thought that you should always have some sort of pre-moistened cleansing towelettes always on you. For one, they make traveling SO much easier since you can pack it on your carry on, and is a safer bet than liquids to pack since they don’t leak. And finally, when you’re dead-tired, these are a God-send since they help you get to bed that much quicker. I’ve used Pond’s towelettes before (they were actually the first ones I’ve ever used…my life has never been the same after), but I was sent their Morning Refresh to try and I think the quality has somehow gotten even better. They have these little microbeads that helps to polish away any grime. I use it to wipe away my eye makeup too and it doesn’t irritate my eyes at all. Each sheet is pretty thick and soft too to help do a thorough job.

CASCADE ICE SPARKLING WATER

Cascade Ice flavored sparkling water

I’ve never been a huge fan of sparkling water, but these flavored ones from Cascade Ice are so refreshing. The only problem is, they’re not widely available in NY. I was sent them from the company to try, and I was surprised how much flavor is packed in the ones like Blueberry Watermelon and Pomegranate Berry (plus they’re only 2 calories). If you’re the type that stocks up though, they’re available to order through their eStore. They’re perfect companions for your summer picnics and barbecues.

L’OREAL EVERSLEEK INTENSE SMOOTHING SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER ($7 EACH)

L'Oreal EverSleek Intense Smoothing Shampoo and Conditioner

I’m constantly on the hunt for great drugstore haircare, and sometimes it’s my roommates who find them for me. In this case, it was L’Oreal’s EverSleek Intense Smoothing Shampoo and Conditioner. I had heard about it before at work — touted mostly for being sulfate-free. When a shampoo is sulfate-free, it essentially means it’s free of surfactants (which only cleanses the surface but is also harsh on your scalp). This combo is wonderful not only for that, but it helps seriously lessen frizz. In humid NYC-weather, it’s a must.

CARESS FINE FRAGRANCE ELIXIR BODY WASH ($4)

Caress Fine Fragrance Elixir Body Washes

I was sent Caress’ new Fine Fragrance Body Washes to try, and woah — it’s SERIOUS when it comes to scent…like there was a crazy flower bomb that went off in your shower. Sheer Twilight is infused with black orchid and juniper oil, while Scarlet Blossom has red lychee and patchouli oil. The silk blends are incredibly softening, and the amazing perfumes follow you out of the shower too. I can really smell it on my skin hours later. There are no microbeads or exfoliating action though — just straight up moisturizing with intensely great scents.

BUMBLE AND BUMBLE THICKENING HAIRSPRAY ($26)

Bumble and bumble thickening hairspray

If your hair tends to fall flat, try Bumble and bumble Thickening Hairspray. A little spritz of this on wet hair and it gives a nice boost around the crown of your head. You can apply a little more on the ends if you need thickening all over, but I love this because it won’t leave my hair stiff either.

NEUTROGENA WET SKIN SUNBLOCK AND SUNSCREEN WITH SPF 85+ ($11.50)

Neutrogena Wet Skin with SPF 85

I’ve mentioned this product before in my Practice Safe Sun post, but last weekend was the first time I actually tried Neutrogena’s Wet Skin Sunblock and Sunscreen. And I put it to the ultimate test — I used it during a day trip under the scorching sun at Six Flags. This one in particular can be used on wet skin (perfect if you know you’re going to be near water or if you tend to sweat a lot…umm not me obviously). I applied this on myself and all my friends, and I kid you not — it was the first time I didn’t even have any tan lines to speak of. And we’re talking ALL DAY in the sun. Probably not great if you are trying to get a tan (you shouldn’t be getting it from the sun anyway! So bad for your skin), but just a testament to how protective it is. The mist is easy to apply, just spray and rub it in. I need to stock up — I already ran out of mine!

JOSIE MARAN R.E.M. PEN ($32)

Josie Maran R.E.M. Pen Eyeliner

In general, any product that can muli-task will earn my love. If you don’t know already, every product in Josie Maran’s line is infused with skin-benefiting argan oil. I may be a nerd when it comes to this kinda thing, but I thought this pen was the coolest thing when I came across it at a QVC event. It’s a skinny pen, that has a long-wear argan oil gel liner on one end that you twist off to find a spongey eyeshadow brush and eyeshadow…the other end also twists off for the gel liner brush. All in one…totally brilliant and easy to carry if you’re constantly on-the-go. This one is the black+brown combo but it comes with a whole lot of coordinating colors. Plus, it comes without any of the bad stuff (no parabens, sulfates, or petrochemicals).

OJON SWA+ RARE HARVEST HAIR FORTIFYING SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER ($27 each)

Ojon SWA+ Rare Harvest Shampoo and Conditioner

I’ve come to really like a lot of Ojon’s products, and if I’m going to splurge on haircare, it’s either on this line (or Philip Kingsley, but I’ll save it for another post). I just used Ojon’s Swa+ Hair Fortifying Shampoo and Conditioner for the first time and feel like it kind of does it all — strengthens thin hair, adds shine, and eases frizz. Just overall happy hair.

What are your latest product obsessions?

x
Shy

IIFA Awards stage the morning before

I already gave you a peek backstage at the IIFA Awards of the looks M.A.C.’s Vimi Joshi created for all six performances at the show. The inspiration came from Bollywood, it was “a celebration” inspired by Bollywood she said. The focus was all in the eyes (with insanely dramatic eyelashes), with a green glitter winged liner that stayed throughout all the performances. What did change though were the lipsticks and bindi placements. Take a look below:

MAC makeup backstage at the IIFA Awards

MAC makeup backstage at the IIFA Awards

MAC makeup backstage at the IIFA Awards

MAC makeup backstage at the IIFA Awards

Vimi Joshi, MAC's Senior makeup artist in India and the Middle East, created the looks for the awards show

Artist switched the lips from M.A.C.’s (1) Ample Pink / Pink Poodle, to (2) Revealing / Enchantress, to (3) Russian Red Lipglass, and finally (4) Fuschia and White Lipmix.

Lashes!

The rest of the makeup:
On face: M.A.C. Fix+ and Full Coverage/Studio Finish
On brows: Dipdown, Silver Dusk and Golden Bronze for highlights
On eyes: Amber Lights (lid), Soft Brown (crease), Blacktrack (top liner) and Tealo liner and Bottle Green (lower lash line). LOTS of Zoom Lash mascara.
On cheeks: Coppertone and Gingerly

I wanted to take a pic backstage but it turned out like this:

In the middle of a stampede...

All the dancers started rushing around me to get on stage because they heard Shah Rukh Khan rehearsing:

Shah Rukh Khan rehearsing

Dia Mirza with SRK

Priyanka Chopra joins

It was pretty fun to watch them rehearse…Unfortunately Shah Rukh’s fractured knee was giving him some issues so he didn’t dance too much that night!

x
Shy

“Like” Beauty and the Feast on Facebook
Follow Beauty and the Feast on Twitter