Review: Milani Fierce Foil Collection

Milani has officially launched their Spring 2015 line: The Fierce Foil Collection.  Runway inspired and named after some of Italy's most iconic cities, the Eye Shine collection includes quads: Milan, Rome, Florence & Venice.  Venice contains a royal blue, charcoal gray/silver, a soft white and a lovey turquoise.  Naturally, I was too entranced by all the pretty colors to pay attention to the details.  Had I done so, I wouldn't have been so confused when I saw the silicone applicator brush. 

Venice

$9.99

 

It is important to establish these are not eye shadows, they are eye shines.  They are formulated with exclusive, multidimensional pearlescence, which means their texture is comparative to a gloss.  The first thing I noticed was the very wet feel.  They were a little slippery and I had a hard time picking up product with the applicator.  The applicator proved helpful in getting close to my lash line, but since the directions advised using your finger for blending anyway, I gave up and ditched it completely.  Once I got the hang of it, they applied smoothly and similar to a crème shadow.  The coverage was very sheer at first but the second coat made a lot of difference.  Something I want to note: The label cautions "a little goes a long way".  Beware as this is very true if the color heats up!    

 

 

 

Their effect is really beautiful.  The colors contain glitter but the particles are micro size so they aren't overly dramatic.  I don't usually do glitter but these worked for me because the coverage is buildable so I could control the intensity.  I'm still not sure the Venice palette (worn sheer or not) is suitable to rock at the office, but it's definitely an ideal choice to amp up your look for a night out. 

 

I saw some creasing by the end of the day, but that's probably because I forget to apply primer (I was too excited!).  My lids tend to be on the dry side as it is, so I would imagine this could definitely present an issue for those with oily lids.  Overall they had relatively decent staying power and I didn't experience any smudging.  They are an interesting concept and with some practice and experimenting they can be a lot of fun.  

 

Check out the other eye shines here!   

 

Also available is the Fierce Foil Nail Lacquer and they're perfect little sparklers!  Dubbed "high impact, trend driven shades" the collection includes colors: Milan, Rome, Florence, Venice, Capri and Sardinia.  They're packaged in chunky bottles and the brush is long and flat for easy control.   

Venice 

Retail: $3.99

The first coat was too sheer, but after a second coat the color really popped.  The polishes contain glitter to create a metallic effect, but as you can see the particles are tiny.  Normally, I have to brace myself before removing the darker colors (especially with glitter) because they tend to stain my skin.  Without fail my cuticles and finger tips always end up matching the color on the cotton ball but surprisingly, Venice removed like a breeze!  No lingering color whatsoever.  And since the glitter fibers are so small, there is no removal issue there either.  A huge plus in my book.    

Milan 

Retail: $3.99

 

 

Capri 

Retail: $3.99

 

Capri was my favorite (I know, shocker) but not just because it is pink.  I loved the pink/ gold glitter contrast.  The gold flecks stood out nicely against the pink and added a cool dimension.  I definitely don't have any others like it. 

 

 

Like always, the prices make Milani products a flippin steal and the quality is still amazing.    

 

Available at:

CVS

MilaniCosmetics.com

 

 

 

Have you scored any products from the New Fierce Foil Collection?

New Launch: real Techniques Bold Metals Collection

 

 For those of you who haven't already heard the good news, the latest real Techniques make up brushes from Sam and Nic Chapman of PixiWoo are officially here!  The pair made a special appearance via Skype at their exclusive launch party here in NYC, where guests sipped on signature cocktails and got the juicy deets on the brand new Bold Metals Collection.       

 

 

 

Sam & Nic via Skype!

 

"The luxe brushes in this collection offer high performance and infinite possibilities for every artist.  Softer then ever, bristles feature shed- resistant properties + advanced pick up and release of make up.  Handles are weighted for optimal control and comfort.  The brushes are engineered for perfect weight distribution when tipped toward the face for use.  Refined artistry cuts off high performance for ultimate application of make up"- As described by real Techniques.

 

 

The collection includes seven new brushes for eyes, base and finish.  Guests had the chance to experience them all first hand by receiving professional makeup applications.  This was nice for two reasons: 1.) I could see the how the brushes functioned and how they handled with the product and 2.) My true test for a soft or "luxe" brush is always when someone else uses it to apply makeup to my under eye area.  With the average brush, I will blink and flinch like a mad man... but with the Bold Metals brushes it was smooth, flinchless sailing all the way to the end.  No doubt they are some of the most plush brushes I've ever tried.    

 

They have so many great elements that I wouldn't typically think to look for.  For example, I love that the bristles are white because it lets me see just how much product I've actually picked up.  And aside from the gorgeous color scheme, the handles have a box-like shape that stops them from rolling around when you put them on the table in between uses.      

 

 

 

Sam and Nic were smart to point out that even though each brush has an advertised use, each is versatile enough to use whichever way is most comfortable to you.  The various angles and densities allow for a wide range of options and makes your overall application routine easier.  I'd definitely recommend snagging a few of these babies.  Their prices range from $16.00- $26.00 and are available here and at Ulta    

 

 

 

 

  

Have you tried the real Techniques Bold Metals Collection yet? What did you think?

 

Beauty Box 5: January Reveal

 

As you all know, yours truly gets in on the goods when BeautyBox5 releases its top five industry picks every month!  Very appropriately, the theme of this month's box was a little extra inspiration to help beauty lovers kick the new year off right! 

 

 

"The beginning of the year can mean new challenges, greet them wholeheartedly with a smile and a twinkle in ( and lining) your perfectly- accented eyes!  You never know what new opportunities are on the horizon, so put your well- manicured self forward and say hi to fresh possibilities!"- BB5

 

 

 

Let's jump right in!

 

 

 

 

 

Coastal Scents Eye Shadow

Retail: $1.95- $24.95

 

Garnier Fructis

Daily Care Fortifying Shampoo

Retail: $3.99 13 oz.

 

 

 

Softsoap Nutri Serums Vitamin E Body Wash

Retail: $8.00 15 fl oz.

 

 

 

Sally Hansen Salon Effects

Retail: $9.99

 

 

Ultraflesh

The Gold Standard Mascara in Blackout

Retail: $21.00 .27 oz

 

 

I wasn't overly impressed with this month's items, but I can promise the Garnier Fructis shampoo and  Softsoap body wash will definitely get used in a flash! 

 

 

 

Do you receive BB5?  What did you think of the products this month?  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

New Release: Milani Cosmetics Mattes & Metallics Collections

 

Milani Cosmetics, the leader in multicultural color cosmetics, will continue to outshine expectations come 2015 with the introduction of seven revolutionary additions to its portfolio of cutting-edge makeup.  Inspired by the latest trends of metallic shine and subtle mattes seen on the catwalks of Milan, Milani will be providing women everywhere with what they need to interpret these runway looks while reflecting their individuality. In support of this launch, Milani has announced a nationwide contest, “Win a Dream Trip to Italy,” which started on January 1, 2015. 

 

 

 

 

Trend: Metallic Shine

Milani’s Fierce Foil collection, releasing in January 2015, is the first of its kind with buildable, highly-metallic, foil finish that creates a look unlike anything on the market today. From eyes to nails to lips, the Fierce Foil collection includes: 

·         Milani Fierce Foil Eye Shines – A first! This isn’t a shadow. It is a shine. Milani’s groundbreaking gloss technology created especially for eyes instantly imparts a beautiful multidimensional foil finish. Available in four shade quartets named for Italy’s starriest, most beloved cities, the lineup includes Milan (soft pinks and taupes), Rome (lavenders and purples), Florence (coppers and gold), and Venice (icy whites and cool blues). Suggested retail price $9.99.

·         Milani Fierce Foil Eyeliner – Each liner is handmade with an innovative blackout base that allows rich shimmer to shine through. This versatile product can be used as a smoldering eyeshadow or as an eyeliner to rock a classic cat eye. Available in four rich, jewel-like shades. Suggested retail price $6.99.

·         Milani Fierce Foil Nail Lacquer – This luxe lacquer is laced with genuine gold for a long lasting shine that looks like it is lit from within. Available in eight chic, Italian city-themed shades. Suggested retail price $3.99.

·         Milani Fierce Foil Lipgloss – A never-been-done-before gloss that softens, smoothes and shines with a glimmering, multidimensional foil finish. Suggested retail price $ 4.99.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trend: Subtle, Soft Matte

Milani’s Matte collection, releasing in January 2015, features a new kind of matte finish. Every product feels great, is easy to apply, is long lasting and looks amazing in Instagram selfies. From eyes to lips to cheeks, the Matte Collection includes:

·         Supreme Kohl Kajal Eyeliner – Inspired by Cleopatra, this versatile glide-on waterproof precision liner stays put all day and is self-sharpening. This unique formula can be used for flawless tightlining, waterlining and for added definition to the upper or lower lids. Available in one stellar Blackest Black shade. Suggested retail price $5.99.

·         Matte Rose Powder Blush – Gorgeous in the compact, even prettier on the cheeks, this petal soft, matte-finish powder shapes and contours. Streaks? Never. Easy to use? Always.  Available in three ultra-flattering shades. Suggested retail price $7.99.

·         Moisture Matte Color Statement Lipsticks – Infused with hydrating Grape Seed extract imported from Italy, this long lasting, lightweight, zero-compromise matte lipstick is smear proof and comfortable. Available in eight, luxe, go-the-distance shades, from pale pink Matte Innocence to fiery red Matte Passion. Suggested retail price $4.99.

 

“We are committed to inspiring women through the creation of beautiful products that they want to use every single day, and with these game-changing launches, we continue to push the envelope and are transforming the way our customers look at makeup,” says Milani President, Laurie Minc. “To help bring these new collections to life, we are hosting a contest to not only surprise and delight our consumers but to also immerse them into Italian culture, which is what inspires us as a company every day.”

 

Milani launched the “Win a Dream Trip to Italy” contest, inviting women to design a look inspired by an Italian beauty legend of their choice. Entrants are encouraged to share their selfies with Milani for the once in a lifetime chance to win a dream trip for two to either Milan, Venice, Rome or Florence for five days, inclusive of hotel and airfare plus $7,500 for spending.  Milani is accepting submissions at www.milanidreamtrip.com now through March 31, 2015 11:59PM EST and will announce the grand prize winner based on creativity, uniqueness and brand relevancy on April 5, 2015.  Beyond the grand prize, Milani will be rewarding over 500 entrants at random with exciting new Milani products.

Get the Look: 72nd Golden Globes Awards 2015

 

 

 

Sienna Miller

 

The Look: A Grace Kelly-inspired look created using makeup by Charlotte Tilbury.

  

Get the Look:

 

1.       Charlotte Tilbury Goddess Skin Clay Mask (launching in March) was used to prep the skin and give the ultimate red carpet facial. 

2.       Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream and Wonderglow were applied lightly all over the face for sunlit, golden-y skin.

3.       To prep Sienna’s lips, Charlotte Tilbury used her Lip Love Lip Scrub and Lip Magic Lip Balm. 

4.       Charlotte applied Light Wonder Foundation in 6 Medium and 7 Medium, then the Charlotte Tilbury Retoucher Concealer in 2 Fair under the eyes and shade 3 for the rest of Sienna’s face.

5.       Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Powder in 1 Fair and 2 Medium was then applied down the center of the face.

6.       To enhance Sienna’s eyebrows, Charlotte Tilbury Brow Lift in Grace K and Cara D were used.

7.       Charlotte Tilbury The Classic Powder Eye Pencil in Audrey was used along the lash line and down the lashes for a kick. Then Charlotte Tilbury Rock ‘n’ Kohl in Barbarella Brown was used over the lash line to add depth.  Using her eye blender brush, she applied the enhance shade from The Luxury Palette in The Sophisticate to add definition to the sockets. Then with the eye smudger brush, the pop shade was run along the top of the lash line to intensify and add depth and definition to the outer corner.

8.       For Sienna’s eyes, Charlotte Tilbury Full Fat Lashes in Glossy Black was used heavily on the top lashes, with light strokes on the bottom lashes.

9.       To enhance the cheekbones, temples and jawline, Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow was used.

10.   For Sienna’s cheeks, Charlotte Tilbury Beach Sticks in Ibiza was used all over as a bronzer, Moonbeach was used for highlight across the top of the cheekbones and Formentera as the blush.

11.   To complete Sienna’s lips, Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Lip Liner in Iconic Nude and Matte Revolution Lipstick in Sexy Sienna with a touch of K.I.S.S.I.N.G Lipstick in Nude Kate.

 

 

 

 

 

Amal Clooney

 

The Look: A retro beauty look inspired by the silver screen sirens that fit Amal's classic style.

 

 

 

Get the Look:

 

 

1. Charlotte Tilbury Goddess Skin Clay Mask was used to create a veil of perfection on the skin. Charlotte then applied Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream to the entire face followed by Charlotte Tilbury Wonderglow to create a flawless soft focus and an instant “spotlight” effect, which acted as the perfect base to the Charlotte Tilbury Light Wonder foundation in 7 Medium.

 

2.       Charlotte applied Charlotte Tilbury The Retoucher concealer in 2 Fair and 3 Medium underneath the eye. Rid the face of any unwanted oils with a dusting of Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Skin Perfecting Micro-Powder in 2 Medium down the middle of the face only to keep Amal’s skin dewy and fresh.

 

3.       Next, Charlotte used Charlotte Tilbury Brow Lift in Cara D to perfect brows and shape the face. 

 

4.       To bring out the golden highlights in Amal’s eyes, Charlotte applied the pop shade from Luxury Palette in The Dolce Vita across the lids. Charlotte Tilbury Rock ‘N’ Kohl Eye Pencil in Barbarella Brown was applied around the eye. To soften the liner, Charlotte Tilbury The Classic in Sophia was applied over the top. Charlotte applied three coats of Charlotte Tilbury Full Fat Lashes to the top lashes and only one coat to bottom lashes to create an open-eyed look.

 

5.       To add an unbeatable red carpet-worthy glow, use Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow to highlight and sculpt the cheek, nose, jawline and temples.

 

6.       To create the perfect cheek, Charlotte used both Cheek to Chic in Love Glow and First Love across the cheekbones. 

 

7.       Finish with the perfect velvety, red lip by using Lip Cheat Lip Liner in Savage Rose along with a mixture of Charlotte Tilbury K.I.S.S.I.N.G. Lipstick in Night Crimson and Matte Revolution Lipstick in Red Carpet Red.

 

8.       Charlotte applied Charlotte Tilbury Multi-Miracle Glow for moisture and a dewy finish followed by Charlotte Tilbury Supermodel Body to sculpt and illuminate the limbs.

 

 

 

Shop Charlotte Tilbury products!

 

 

Chrissy Teigen

 

The Look: Celebrity Hairstylist and International Creative Director for Macadamia Professional, Giannandrea  was inspired to create an effortless style that pulled the hair up and away from the face, thus creating an elegant take on the playful pony.  

 

Get the Look:

 

1. Apply Macadamia Professional Foaming Volumizer on wet hair before blow drying the whole head with a large round brush, to create ample volume at the roots and length

2. Use a 1-inch curling iron and curl the whole head in waves

3. Once the hair was set in waves, use a generous dollop of Macadamia Professional Whipped Detailing Cream and run hands throughout the hair, using fingers to create supple separation and texture all the way through the ends

4. Gather hair into a high pony tail, slightly below the crown. Tie the pony into an elastic band and take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic band covering it. Keep the pony playful by using your fingers to open it up and make it wide, textured and volumized

5. Make sure it’s not too tight around the face by creating volume at the front with separation. Leave some fly aways on the sides for an effortless look

6.  Spray in place with Macadamia Control Working Spray to protect against humidity and set for a night out

 

 

Shop Macadamia Hair products!

 

 

 

 

 

Ellie Kemper 

 

 

The Look: The whimsical and romantic bun, created by celebrity hairstylist Richard Collins.  

 

 

Get the Look:

 

1. Start with damp hair and spray Schwarzkopf styliste ULTIME Satin Frizz Control & Protect Heat Protection Straightening Spray all over your hair.

 

2. For additional blow dry protection, apply Schwarzkopf styliste ULTIME Satin Frizz Control & Protect Straightening Style Cream. Blow dry hair straight with a large boar bristle brush.

 

3. Once the hair is dry, take a 1 ½ curling iron, starting at the nape of the neck.  Lightly spray the Schwarzkopf styliste ULTIME Crystal Shine & Hold Heat Protection Shine Spray in 2 inch sections starting at the nape of the neck to hold hair in place without weighing it down. Be sure to keep your bangs out to frame your face. 

 

4. Next, gather your hair from the front and loosely twist to the back of the hair, below the crown, and secure with bobby pins. With the remaining hair, gather and twist into a loose bun and finish with the Schwarzkopf styliste ULTIME Crystal Shine & Hold Laminating Shine Hair Spray.