MAC Art Supplies Haul

I was really be sensible with this haul! At one point I thought I was going to buy the whole collection. But swatching in store makes all the difference. The pearl glide liners did not interest me in the slightest after seeing them in store. It's nothing that Gosh doesn't already do in something similar or better that is Waterline safe because the pearlglide liners aren't. (even though I know tons of people that use them on the waterline anyway!) I had wanted to get the lip stain markers but I could not  figure out how to sanitize them thoroughly for my kit. After speaking to a few people it kinda became obvious that there were really designed to be used by just one person. No point putting them in your kit. So I passed up on them. So that left me with the Greasepaint sticks.

Yeah I got all 8. I had to! I bought Dirty and Below Ground first. And then got the rest because I just could not see how I would live without them! Dramatic I know!

I love my smokey eyes. 90% of the time when I do wear make-up I wear a smokey eye and these beautiful little pens will do the job most def. I have a punk rock chick shoot coming up shortly and I plan on using these for the look. I think they are gonna be fabuloso!

 If you're based in the UK these are still available online to purchase. I haven't used these in a look yet however off the bat I can tell that they are waaaaay softer than first GPS released. They still set quite quickly but blending is going to be a little bit easier with these. The colour that took me by surprise which I certainly did not think was going to be anything interesting was "Dirty". It.is.stunning. Seriously. I am nowhere near being neutral girl but this GPS is probably one of the most versatile of the lot. You can do smokey, you can do neutral, you can do brights, you can do mattes, you can do everything! If you were to get one, I would get Dirty.

For my brown girls, Below Ground is going to service all your bronze eye'd dreams. This colour was made for you chocolate divas. Check it out. I doubt you will be disappointed. Swatches...

top to bottom: Below Ground, Dirty, Zinc Zone, Brown Now, Charred Mauve, Uniformly blue, Greengrease, Slick Black

 Look out for a few looks using these coming up shortly. Catch you guys real soon :)

Be Blessed xxx

IMATS 2010

Hi people!

I hope you are all well. Welcome to my new subscribers, I notice each and every one of you. Most honoured that you have chosen to join Dvoradivine.

So! Last weekend I took a long trip down to London to sort out a few things as well as attend the International Make-up Artist Trade show at Alexandra Palace. I was ill, so it wasn't the most comfortable of trips. And here I am a week later still ill. But whatever.

On Friday after I'd finished my other shenanigans, I headed to Westfield because I wanted to check out Inglot [the polish make-up brand that is cause a storm] for myself. Let me just say I had no intention of getting anything per say. I was just open to what they would have.

Well so much for self control. I walked away with an eyeshadow palette and a lip palette and the intention of going back one day soon to get some more!

Saturday morning I got up at the UNHOLY hour of 0500hrs to get ready for IMATS. I was on a train to central London at 0559hrs and I arrived at Alexandra palace at about 0735 or something like that. It was freezing and I lost the feeling in my toes long before they decided to open the doors. Speaking of which, I would like to complain because they specified on their site that doors would be open at 8am for people to collect their tickets. No such thing happened. the opened them long at 8.30 which was a bit annoying for those of us who got up at the break of dawn to get in early.

Eventually they opened up the door, by which time there were plenty of people waiting to get in. It took me the whole of 5mins to get my ticket but I've read stories of how some people waited 45mins to get theirs. Double dang. I would not have been pleased!

The rest ladies and gents was a flurry of activity. I got most of what I wanted to get. First stop was the Make-up Artist Magazine stand. I was not leaving with a subscription. I had intended on picking up some make-up books but they weren't discounted enough. I knew I could get them cheaper else where.

After that,  I headed over to the Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Stand where I got 6 lip tars in Black (Tarred), yellow(Traffic) , red (NSFW), blue (RX), white (feathered) and clear (Clear).

I didn't bother with the other colours because I reckon I can use basic colour theory to mix up any colour I need. I've tried it out already and I've mixed up most of the colours you see those little tubes. Takes a bit of patience but it's doable.The review for these is coming up shortly.

I had intentions of going to a few talks that day but they filled up really quickly. I only managed two in the end. The first was Eve Pearl where she did a look for Women of Colour.

I think she was a bit rushed given the tight running of the schedule and the fact that she only had an hour to do the model's face. She did take the time to explain everything from setting up your work station to sanitation. She spoke very thoroughly on her products and how to produce an easy-go to look that will work for most women of colour.

I enjoyed the talk but I didn't feel like I learnt anything from this talk. It was a bit too simplistic for my liking. No offense to her. I knew most of what she spoke about in terms of techniques. I would have loved a more advanced class on the things you don't necessarily learn from places like You tube.

I did like they way she gave ideas on how you can make an extra income as a make-up artist. It was good to hear it from someone who had gone and done it and become a success. She pushed her products a lot and I'm sure they are very good. However I had my mind made up so I didn't buy anything.

There were several brush companies in attendance some of which included Royal and Langnickel which had a good stand. I wasn't feeling any of their brushes however. I was rather disappointed in them after I had seem the brushes on the website. Somehow they just didn't match up to what I had envisioned.

Crown Brush which was absolutely heaving! I managed to get a few lip and liner brushes after waiting like 30 mins. I tried the lip brushes and again I'm not a fan but I kind of expected this with Crown Brush so I don't have buyers remorse.

For me, the Brush company that stole my heart was Hakuhodo. I had had these brushes on my hit list for a VERY long time now. And after seeing them in person, they have no failed me. In fact I am more impressed with them now than I was before and I've decided to rebuild my brush belt with a good proportion of these. They are THAT good.

The Japanese are masters when it comes to making certain items. Their fude (make-up brush) quality is superb. It will be worth the investment when the time comes. (That is when I can get my hands on the credit card...lol!)

I bought two brushes from Hakuhodo and I had to hold myself from buying more. I had other things I needed to get so I'm gonna do a mega haul of some brushes when I've sold my left kidney.

The funny thing is that you guys think I'm joking :)

Yaby Cosmetics was in attendance. I had really wanted to get a few palettes from them but I could NOT justify the price for the size (£65/palette). The pigmentation is brilliant but those pans were too tiny for my liking. I might build my own palette one of these days but for now I'm happy to sit and watch others use it.

MUD cosmetics was in attendance as well. I went to a talk held by one of their lectures Yvonne which was good as well. I learnt a few interesting things during that talk such curling lashes with a spoon. Yep. You read right. It works too.

There was so much going on and if you are a reader of any of the larger UK Beauty Bloggers you would have seem plenty of pictures. Want some crystal clear ones? Try Lipglossiping. Her stuff is ah-mazing.

I know that some people read my blog. But never did I expect to actually meet one of my readers! Gobsmacked is not the word. If it wasn't forhe high melanin levels in my skin, I would have been blushing! Whilst I was at the Charles Fox stand a lady who was standing next to me recognized me and said she reads my blog. I was way beyond chuffed. I totally forgot myself and simply said thank you and she moved off! I didn't even ask her name! GUTTED! Pretty lady if you are still reading this, it was lovely to meet you. Next time I shall at least ask your name!

The second person I met was a lady called Stella. We literally walked into each other and this time I made an effort to talk to her. What a lovely girl. Oh and she's like tall. Like model type tall. Or maybe I'm just really short. She came over from France just for IMATS. And I thought I had travelled far! Hi Stella!!! Twas fab to meet you!!!She make writing this even more enjoyable!

And then just as I was starting to think I should go home, I happened to bump into a fellow MUA by the name of Kemi. Kemi Kings to be exact! We met on facebook. Yes. I know. But she is one of the most down to earth people I have ever come across. It was like seeing a old friend! Couldn't believe it. So we took some time to walk around bit. Exchanged some notes and helped each other out. She really sealed it for me! Her work is fabulous. If you're ever on facebook try and find her. She had a fan page under the name of Kemi the Make-up Artist. Wonderful stuff!

All in all, I had a fantastic time at IMATS. I know other people were somewhat disappointed by the even but I honestly did not mind. The venue didn't bother me, neither did the location. Certain things could have been better but I suspect at lot changed at the last minute. As a trade show for make-up artists, it served me well. It was excellent for Kit building. I'll know to bring more money next time because for me the deals were pretty awesome. Will I be going next year? Most definitely. I've already started my new list. I have a whole year to save for it too. That's the way to do it!

Finally! Onto the haul!

Make-up Artist MAG subscription*MUFE eyeshadow 10 palette*MAC 15 pan palette*MAC 6 pan Blush palette*Inglot 10 eyeshadow palette*Disposables*Kryolan Invisible Matt*Dermacolour Concealer wheel*OCC lip tars*MUFE HD powder*Kryolan under make-up base*Inglot lipstick palett* brushes*3 MAC lipsticks*mini collapsable bin*PP Pill cases for depotting lipsticks*Kryolan 10 eyeshadow palette.

I am happy with my purchases. It's going to serve me kit well and I can't wait to try out certain items. As soon as I am better I'll be posting a bit more.

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog.

You stay blessed now! xxx

A Haul. There. I said it. A blooming Haul!

I give up trying to resist the word Haul. I can't think of what else to call it!

Anyway how are you all? To all my new subscribers, welcome! Thanking for liking my blog!!

Mother dearest was visiting over the weekend. And well she'll be going home for Christmas so these are my presents for this year. Happy days!

Urban Decay Preen Eyeshadow Box
Bobbi Brown Oil-Free Even Finish Foundation
MAC Cool Capers Pigment set
Barry M Lipliner in 11
MAC Dazzleglass in She Zam
MAC Dazzleglass in Blackfire
Revlon Va Va Violet Lipstick

I finally got my hands on the Urban Decay Preen Eyeshadow palette. I half expected it to be sold out when I went to Boots but suprisingly there were plenty of palettes left. I have to say that I am not a fan of the Urban Decay 24/7 pencils. The last tester that I got from my Book of Shadows II smudged like something you have never seen. No lie. I was EXTREMELY annoyed at the whole affair. However. I am willing to give it another go. Last change UD. Make it happen.

The Bobbi Brown foundation is my first ever Bobbi Brown item. I hold my hands up. I have never been attracted by their stuff. I think it's because I am a colour addict and Bobbi Brown has always come across to me as very "neutral". You know...all the nice and beautiful, flawless but natural looking kinda make-up. I'm too wild for such. But I hope one day to give them a good look. In fact I take that back. I DID have a good look at them but it still failed to catch my eye. Forgive me!

The two lipglosses from MAC are another first for me. I've never really thought about the lipglosses from MAC until Blackfire and Amourous came out with Style Black and Dazzle Creme [I think?!] I've been wanting Blackfire since Style Black came out but I was temporarily broke and it wasn't the top of my list. However I caved and I got it now. It's pretty. ButI suspect I shall not be repurchasing anything with lipgloss type products from MAC anytime soon. I used it twice and a 5th of the gloss is gone. A rip off if I ever did see one.

I confess that I bought the MAC Cool Capers Mini Pigment/Glitter box because of Grape and Reflects Transparent Teal. I'm a magpie really. Bright and sparkly gets me all the time! I remember there being some buzz about Kitchmas pigment but I ain't gonna lie to you, for me, it's the least attractive one of the lot. Am I wrong? If I am please break it down for a sister cause I have not seen the light...!

The Revlon lipstick is another first. I only realised after I bought it that I just don't have Revlon lipsticks. Nothing against them because I love Va Va Violet. I just never seem to pick them up. Oh well! We can start a collection now :) The Barry M Lipgloss was one of those spontaneous buys. It works perfectly with Va Va Violet. But I didn't plan it that way. Not on purpose anyway! Subconscience behave! I've worn it twice. Very soft. We shall see how it works out.

Look out for a few looks with these pretty little things. Always exciting. One of these days I might try and do a picture tutorial. Hmmm. Might being the operative word.

Stay Blessed lovelies. xxx

UK - US Secret Santa Make-up swap and a Mini-Haul

Hey guys, how you doing today?

First of all can I just say Thank to all 57 of you :D 57 readers, for me, is pretty darn cool. I do appreciate you taking the time to read my beauty blog and I hope you continue to like what I put out there :)

Well I've been sitting here trying to find a place where I could do a make-up swap. However all the ones I found were already closed. They are like secret underground sects or something!!! If there is one running somewhere that I've missed please please please drop me a line.

Before I go and post something on Specktra I wanted to ask you guys if anyone would be interested in doing a drug haul make-up swap with me or anyone else who follows on this blog.

I am offering to swap stuff like this :D

An example of the goodies I can get for you :)

Sleek [Palettes, lipstick, bronzers, eyedusts]
Stargazer [Lipglosses and eye dusts]
Barry M [lip paint, Nail varnish and Dazzle dusts]
GOSH [Waterproof eyeshadow, lipgloss, eyeliner, make-up brushes]
Collection 2000 [Dazzle me dusts]
Boots no 17 [Eyeshadow/gloss/lipstick]
Myfacecosmetics [blush/lipstick]
Eyelure Eyelashes
Go Cosmetics

In exchange for:-

NYX [lipgloss/lipstick/eyeshadow/blush]
Jesse's girl [eyeshadow]
L'oreal HIP [paints/duos/]
Certain Revlon products [baked bronzers]
Loew Cornell brushes [mop head]
Cover Girl
Red Cherry Lashes
Sonia Kashuk etc

If you're interested please drop me a comment and we can arrange something :) Christmas in July!!!!! If there are several people wanting a piece of the action I am willing to organise a full on swap fest for errrrrrbadi and if you're from another country even better we can more than accomodate you too!!!

Anyhoo a couple days ago I was in Super [make-up] Drug and picked up 3 GOSH items:-

Light 'N Shine Lip Glaze in no 05 £8.32
Effect Powder in Holographic Silver £5.39
Effect Powder in Plummy F£ee :) [Buy 3 for 2]

I bought the GOSH Lipglaze because it is a pretty good dupe for MAC Dazzleglass Funtabulous. It's just a little less pigmented but pretty much gives you the same effect. Feels lush on the lips, none sticky and last for a good while.

I have some random crazy idea in my head for the Holographic glitter. If I can pull it off then it was so worth the purchase and as for Plummy, its just a lovely colour to get for free!

Side note *My lips on Macro mode are just huge :p*

GOSH Lipglaze in no 5 on its own [I apologise for the poor shots. It's hard to photograph lipgloss!]

Sleek Amethyst Lipstick with GOSH Lipglaze no 5 over the top of it.
Hotness.

Stay Blessed people xxx

A bit more hauling...

I'm telling you, I'm telling you, I'm telling you! My husband is going to take away my bank card one of these days.... I popped into town to look for jeans and ended up getting other bits and bobs! [no jeans tho...]

New Look was having one of it regular sales [I rarely buy things full price these days] and I picked up two batwing tops for £6 each. One in a light cream top and another in black and white stripes. They look huge but blame my 36G bust for that. Size16 is all I fit into and look decent I think they'll go nicely with the legging revolution I'm going through at the moment.

I also picked up another pair of black leggings. Wanna see if these are better than my Primark ones. 2 pairs of funky coloured tights too. I like the colours and they were £1.50each.

Then I went past Superdrug again because it was open and I had been in there yesterday and forgotten what I'd seen and needed to refresh my mind. Not.

The Barry M nail polish offer was still on [£5 for 2] so I thought wouldn't it be nice if I painted my nails a pretty colour for work tomorrow. Would probably match whatever crazy outfit I was wearing then. So I picked up these goodies...

*Cutex nail polish remover £1.95
*Sally Henson double duty base and top coat £ 4.16
*Barry M nailpaint in Lime Green and Vibrant purple £5.00
*Kiss Ultra Shine Nail file £1.66

Then I popped into Debenhams and they were having some massive perfume sale. I picked up Paul Smith's Floral for £9.90. Smells pretty. I used to wear Paul Smith a long time ago so I guess I'm on the rebound.

Oh yeah!In New Look I picked up another Stargazer Lipstick in no 133 which I've been wanting for ages. Just cause it's purple. I ain't gonna lie to you. It's a hard colour to wear. It's do-able but the look has to be just right or else it goes belly up on you.

And so instead of doing some ironing and all that jazz I've spent the rest of my afternoon painting my nails in the purple Barry M nailpolish. It took tiiiiiiiiimmmmmmmmmeeeeeeee! I don't know what drying times are so yeah. I was leaning toward cautious. Ladies and gentlemen I present to you my first NOTD!

My hands are tiny. Finger nails even tinier! but hey it looks cool don't it? I love being a newbie at things! It's not in anyway a perfect job but I'm sure I'll learn as I go along!

How do you guys like these Haul posts? Are they fun or informative at all? Or do they bore you to sleep? Thoughts, ideas, suggestions anyone?

Stay Blessed lovlies!