Makeup Q&A #3

Dear Bradley,

Q: Where can I find cheaper MAC cosmetics? I don't consider EBay an option because it isn't reliable.

A:

Being a MAC employee is generally a tough job. They make relatively low wages and have to work hard for a comission in order to get by in their fields. This makes it into something they have to love. MAC employees are required to wear the latest MAC collection at all times. But MAC releases new MAC shades ALL the time. So they aren't allowed to use their old shades anymore. What happens to them? Many MAC employees sell them to their buddies for a couple bucks to help earn back a little of what they will never use again.

So my reccomendation for you, since you seem to be against purchasing product off the internet is to develop relationships with your local MAC counter girls. Talk to them, get to know them, and buy from them. As you cultivate this relationship you may be able to buy some MAC product from them under the table.

 Save your eye shadow pots too because you can trade them in for more product.

Another fun thing to try out is www.makeupalley.com which is a website where you can trade makeup with people around the world. I know you're against the internet, whatever, it's a nice website that is very community driven. These girls want their makeup too so it is very likely you will get yours.

Best wishes!

XOXO

Bradley

Ideal Eyes

So here in the summer of 2008 our cosmetics are looking at a much brighter scheme.

 Our spring looks were muc more tame, and in my opinion just drab. In the world of cosmetics it is all about the color, the vivacity. Go bold or go home. Flaunt the lips, the eyes, the blush and everything in between. Makeup is all about how you choose to wear it.

 That being said, Smashbox recently ran an event called "Ideal Eyes" where they sat guests down and did their eyes with colors that were perfect and in season for the guests specific eye color. I'd like to take a minute to discuss some colors that will be in the here and now for summer 2008.

 Blue Eyes:

I am going to start with blue because that's the color of my own eyes. Many people will reccomend certain browns for blue eyes, and in many cases that can work. But this summer is all about being bright and with that subject in mind you need to pick up Urban Decay's Mary Jane eyeshadow. It is a bang packed silver with blue undertones that will creater a killer frame for any set of baby blues. I would reccomend bringing it around under the eye as well.

Brown Eyes:

Who can forget our beautiful browns?  For brown eyes that stand out most people will agree on pinks and earthy tones and while I can definitely agree with that, I know the exact shade to give you pow your eyes deserve. MAC's Sushi Flower eye shadow is a gorgeous coral pink with just a slight hint of shimmer and a flawless satin finish. It has great pigment for going bold. If your eyes are a little more waterry brown as opposed to dark brown, then you might also appreciate MAC's Girlie, a rosy pink with the same satin finish.

Hazel/Brown/Green Eyes:

This is your season to shine! With all the glory of summer coming at us full blaze, your eyes will stand out more then ever. This season Stila has a brand new series of duo eye shadows for your luscious lids to drool over. For you I'd like to reccomend orchid, a duo of both light and dark purples allowing you to mix it up however you choose. To stay true to your natural tones is another set called Fandango, which mixes a lime green and a warm chocolate. Both colors are natural enough to be used with the shade of your eyes but bright enough to make a splash during the season.

 Good luck ladies!

XOXO

Bradley

Fashion Q&A

Question:

ohk so like my one friend looks awesome when she wheres flats (the shoes) and a cute top with straight leg jeans .. when i come to school in jeans uggs and most likely a shirt from hollister everyday .. i really wanna change my style to be like my friends but doubt ill be able to pull it off .. wht should i dooo? 

Answer:

Abercrombie is a lifestyle brand and so all of their subsidiaries tend to stay in pretty much the same scope of clothing. If you have more then 3 Hollister shirts than you probably have the best of their collection. So let's steer you away from that!

With spring and summer coming coming just around the corner, now is a great time to break out with the skinny jeans and the flats. If you don't have them already, I would reccomend going to some place like Target and picking up a couple pairs that are cute and at a low price.

A good top would be one that is long and a little loose. With that you can wear a variety of colors and belts to coordinate your outfits. If you like to wear your hair up then you could definitely finish the look with thick hoop earrings, or other cool geometric ones. Certain types of jewelry can be a little gaudy, it just adds character and sexiness.

A few shops you should try to check out would be Armani Exchange, Express, Target, Nordstrom and Gap.

Don't copy your friend. Fashion is a unique thing and with so many great clothing options out there you have to be positive that you are asserting your own unique sense of style into everything you wear. If you are unsure about being able to pull things off, then gradually change your wardrobe. Start with a pair of flats for one week. Try a different kind of shirt then you'd typically wear. Don't do it all at once. Remember that bright colors, even tie dye style are what's in right now.

If ever in doubt, just snap your fingers and work the runway! It's the confidence that makes a girl hot.

 XOXO

Sexii Bradley