Historic Launch of Madam C.J. Walker Beauty Culture Exclusively at Sephora

 

Sundial Brands, a leading skincare and haircare manufacturer renowned for its innovative use of high-quality, culturally authentic natural ingredients,  recently announced the company’s first prestige haircare launch – Madam C.J. Walker Beauty Culture.

Building on the life, legacy and impact of the ground-breaking Madam C.J. Walker – visionary entrepreneur, philanthropist and America’s first female self-made millionaire – the four-collection, 25 SKU line launches exclusively in Sephora stores and on Sephora.com on March 4, 2016. Serving today’s woman according to her specific hair texture needs, Madam C.J. Walker Beauty Culture’s product solutions contain all new formulations created with the highest quality natural ingredients – including first-to-market dual oil encapsulations – and performance-driven innovation to inspire every woman to be unapologetic in the expression of her individual beauty – whether kinky, coily, curly, wavy, or straight/heat-styled. The treatment collection is designed for all hair types to help restore and maintain health.

“Madam C.J. Walker was the first person to devise and scale a business model that addressed the haircare and beauty needs of women of color, while also challenging the myopic ideals of the beauty industry at that time,” said Richelieu Dennis, CEO of Sundial Brands. “Today, Madam C.J. Walker Beauty Culture is poised to challenge those same ideals in the prestige category with our revolutionary new products and cutting edge formulations that provide women with any hair texture with a new standard of beauty – their own. In partnering with Sephora, this launch represents another step forward in our rich history and continues Madam C.J. Walkers’ legacy to help every woman feel confident to embark on the life she desires"

The line consists of four collections that address the cleansing, treatment and styling needs of all hair textures. These include three styling collections formulated with six multi-tasking oils that help nourish, condition, detangle and seal in moisture – Brassica Seed & Shea Oils Collection (Smoothing/Style-Extending), Coconut & Moringa Oils Collection (Frizz Fighting/HumidityBlocking) and Jamaican Black Castor & Murumuru Oils Collection (Curl-Defining/MoistureSealing) – and one treatment collection – Dream Come True Collection (Scalp & Strand Nourishing). The styling collections feature the lead oil as an individual SKU, with each antioxidant-packed, lightweight oil providing different benefits: Brassica Oil to smooth & silken, Coconut Oil to nourish & moisturize, and Jamaican Black Castor Oil to nourish & restore. Each can be used for treatment and conditioning boosts and refreshes in between full washes, as well as blended for more personalization according to hair needs

www.mcjwbeautyculture.com

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black|Up Cosmetics Arrives in Atlanta

 

I'm so happy to share with you that black|Up cosmetics has officially launched in Sephora stores in Atlanta. black|Up is the first Parisian luxury brand dedicated to the beauty of women of color, and is the expert in answering the specific needs for darker complexions. Pairing professional quality and pleasure of use, the collection offers a variety of complexion, eye, lip and nail products. 

Today I had the pleasure of having breakfast with Valerie Saint Amand International Trainer and US Sales Director for Black|Up Cosmetics and I totally fell in love with her and the brand. She explained to me that after 16 years in Paris/UK it was time to expand to the U.S. and I'm so glad they did. I tried out a couple of products from the line and they are AMAZING the line is pigment-rich, contains a bit of sparkle, and focuses on mattifying products. I know you are wondering how much??? Prices range from $17 for an eyeliner to $40+ for foundation and powders. For all my beauty lovers and MUA's  you NEED this in your kit. So make sure you visit the nearest Sephora and check them out.

   

Sephora Perimeter Mall (4400 Ashford Dunwoody Rd NE)
Sephora Cumberland Mall (1400 Cumberland Mall)
Sephora Lenox Square (3393 Peachtree Rd)

NEW FAVE: Sublime Powder
black|Up is innovating with this gorgeous new powder texture: silky and ultra-fine, it blends into the skin to create a flawless, warm glow. Thanks to a balanced proportion of pigments and shimmers, the formula does not turn white, even on darker skins, ensuring an instant healthy glow

Wearing Black|Up RGE34 Matte Lipstick, Sublime Powder and Mascara

Valerie Saint Amand International Trainer and US Sales Director for Black|Up Cosmetics and I after Brunch

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Get the Look: Maria Menounos at the Academy Awards!

Maria Menounos glowed on the Academy Awards red carpet thanks to the use of VITA LIBERATA products by her makeup artist Dimitris Giannetos.

“To give Maria her amazing, bronze glow I used Vita Liberata’s pHenomenal Mousse in Medium to the arms, neck and shoulders. It’s rapid drying, odorless and easy to apply. It’s the only self tanner in my kit.  I used Vita Liberata’s Trystal Minerals in Bronze to contour and highlight Maria’s beautiful bone structure. Trystal is unique because it is a gradual build self tanner but can also be used as a bronzer.”

 

GET THE LOOK:

• Using the Vita Liberata Tanning Mitt, apply pHenomenal 2- 3 Week Tan Mousse in Medium from head to toe

• To contour and add extra shimmer, use Trystal Minerals – Bronze powder to the arms and décolleté in sweeping movements with the Kabuki brush. This will gives skin a smooth finish



PRODUCTS:

1. Trystal Minerals – Bronze - $55

2. pHenomenal Mousse – Medium - $54

Available at Sephora: www.sephora.com

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Sephora + Pantone Universe 2015 Color of the Year Collection

SEPHORA and Pantone proudly introduce the 2015 PANTONE® Color of the Year Collection in Marsala 18-1438, an extraordinary new assortment of cosmetics for eyes, lips, and cheeks in celebration of Pantone’s complex and robust nude shade. Now in its fourth year, this collaboration brings SEPHORA’s innovative textures, finishes, and product forms to the beauty category with a limited edition collection that reinvents and redefines neutrals with captivating dimension, shifting in intensity from boldly pigmented to modestly sheer.

Facets of Marsala Multi-Finish Eye Palette ($39.00) (Limited Edition)

Create an infinite amount of looks with this eye shadow palette containing matte, glitter, pearl, and shimmer finishes, and 24 coordinating shades to accompany them.

Bold Marsala Mascara & Brow Highlighter ($20.00) (Limited Edition)

Achieve a dramatic color effect with this moisturizing and volumizing mascara that can be used both on lashes and brows. The vitamin-enriched formula contains natural Jojoba oil and a blend of soft waxes to keep lashes healthy, improving flexibility and preventing breakage. On the brows, it helps to groom and hold unruly hairs while adding a rich Marsala tone.

Marsala Metalshine Liquid Liner ($18.00) (Limited Edition)

This long-wearing liquid liner delivers a bold swipe of Marsala at the lash line with a striking metallic finish. The soft, flexible brush makes application effortless for high-impact eyes.

Marsala Layering Lip Collection ($28.00) (Limited Edition)

Mix and layer tones of Marsala with this set of five ombre nude pencils that provide sheer coverage and a dewy finish. The buttery formula contains hyaluronic filling spheres for plumping, and resveratrol, an antioxidant derived from red wine grapes, for hydrating color that shines.

Pure Marsala Matte Lip Crème ($18.00) (Limited Edition)

Discover one of the most breathtaking ways to wear the Color of the Year with this gorgeous hue in an exclusive case. Formulated with extracts, oils and Resveratrol, an anti-aging ingredient derived from red grapes, it leaves behind a rich, long-lasting, natural satin finish.

Cooling Marsala Multi ($25) (Limited Edition)

This lightly-pigmented balm cools on contact while delivering a sheer wash of flattering Marsala that is ideal for cheeks, contouring, and highlighting. The caffeine and coconut oil-based stick adds moisture while de-puffing and cooling on contact for immediate skin relief.

Shimmering Marsala Cheek Trio ($28.00) (Limited Edition)

This chic compact contains two matte blushes in Marsala, paired with a cream highlighter. The triple jet milled process allows for intense color payoff and a luxurious, velvety texture, while the unique blend of naturally-derived oils and powders enhance the skin’s overall appearance. For flawless application, apply with the Marsala Pro Angled Blush Brush #49.

Now available at Sephora

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Christian Louboutin Debuts At Sephora

The coveted shoe designer’s nail polish has arrived. The iconic Louboutin red sole shade is now available in bottled form. Sephora debuts this luxe beauty brand’s new line of nail polish today. Be the first to get your fingers on Rouge lacquer—it’s sure to become an instant classic.

“The red sole was born from red nail polish. I am giving back to beauty what the shoes took from the nails many years ago.” –Christian Louboutin

 

SHOP CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN AT SEPHORA>

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BECCA Lowlight Sculpting Perfector has arrived at Sephora!

The long awaited arrival of BECCA’s latest launch – the Lowlight Sculpting Perfector is over! No longer is contouring just for the pro’s, now anyone can achieve a perfectly contoured face.  Check out this uniquely adaptive and blendable contouring crème and see the flawless, natural looking contours that can be created with ease!

BECCA’s Lowlight Sculpting Perfector adds depth and dimension by naturally accentuating the low points of the face. The balance of natural shadow color and skin tones creates the perfect lowlight shade for glowing, healthy looking skin.

Creating depth and dimension without the help of a makeup artist has never been easier and more effective than with the BECCA Lowlight Sculpting Perfector. The multi-purpose product can also be used to create light and lift around the eye area with a simple sweep.

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How To Highlight + Contour By Face Shape

I don't highlight + Contour my face everyday but when I do I use Sephora's Baked Sculpting Disk. 

Here are some easy steps to help you accentuate your best features:

1. IDENTIFY YOUR FACE SHAPE: Use the handy guide above to help determine yours. OVAL: generally balanced shape; length is greater than the width. ROUND: width is equal to the length; rounder hairline; fuller cheeks. SQUARE: strong jawline that is boxed off at the chin; straighter hairline; cheeks appear more flat. HEART: slightly wider forehead that gradually narrows toward the bottom of the face; tapered chin.
 
2. ADD LIGHT TO THE CENTER OF THE FACE: Draw the eye to the center of the face by creating an inverted triangle of light with a shimmer-free concealer or cream foundation. See the charts here for your exact placement.
 
3. ILLUMINATE THE AREAS YOU WANT TO STAND OUT: Apply the luminizer of your choice over the following areas for a lit-from-within radiance that highlights your best features. OVAL: the center of the forehead, down the bridge of the nose, from the browbones to the cheekbones in a C-shape, and the center of the chin. ROUND: the center of the hairline to the center of the forehead, down the bridge of the nose, the cheekbones under the outer corners of the eyes, and the center of the chin. SQUARE: the center of the hairline and the center of the forehead, above and below the outer edges of the brows, and the center of the chin. HEART: the center of the hairline to the center of the forehead, down the bridge of the nose, above and below the outer edges of the brows, the chin just below the lower lip, and to the sides of the mouth. TIP: Apply luminizer in light, buildable layers for refined illumination.
 
4. CONTOUR THE AREAS YOU WANT TO RECEDE: Sweep on your preferred contour shade on these specific areas to downplay prominent features and create natural-looking definition. OVAL: lightly along the hairline and temples and under the cheekbones. ROUND: the edges of the face, from the temples to the jawline, and in the hollows of the cheeks.  SQUARE: the temples and from the hollows of the cheeks to the jawline. HEART: the temples, the sides of the cheeks, and the chin. TIP: Start at the edge of the face and work your way inward for subtle shading.
 
5. BLEND THE HIGHLIGHT + CONTOUR COLORS TOGETHER: Blur the edges of the highlight and contour colors into each other for a seamless finish using a brush or sponge. TIP: Hold your brush toward the end of the handle to diffuse harsh lines.
 
SHOP HIGHLIGHTING AND CONTOURING AT SEPHORA>




Tips provided by Sephora

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Summer Edition: #styldby GAP at Lenox Square Mall

On May 8th I had the pleasure of returning to the GAP to host the Summer Edition of Styld.by Gap at Lenox Square Mall and this time I was joined by fellow Fashion Blogger Lauren of  FashionablyLo. Guests that attended viewed the latest must-haves styles by UrbanDaddy, complimentary color consults by Sephora, a mini photo shoot by Kat Goduco, savored delicious bites from Earth Biscuit Foods, our mixologist Monica Tookes made delicious Gingeritas cocktails and more courtesy of The Patron Spirits Company and DJ Ree de la Vega kept the crowd rocking with the latest and greatest tunes.  Fun Times were had check out what you missed below:

Photo Credit: Kat Goduco Link to Full Gallery: http://katgoduco.smugmug.com/2014summerstyldbygap/ 

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REVIEW: SEPHORA+PANTONE UNIVERSE Astral Lip Glaze Gloss Set

SEPHORA+PANTONE UNIVERSE Astral Lip Glaze Gloss Set is a lip glaze that creates a three-dimensional, holographic shine for a stunning, full lip. The thick, non-tacky formula delivers brilliant color and high coverage with a long-lasting finish.

What I thought: I'm not a big Lip Gloss Fan,  I'm a Matte girl, but I really liked how the Brandied Melon is a perfect nude for my complexion, its not sticky and doesn't clump up. This will be my go to product when I want to switch up my look.
 
Price: $13.00
Where To Buy: Online at Sephora.com or local stores

Arabesque

Brandied Melon

Chrysanthemum

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REVIEW: SEPHORA+PANTONE UNIVERSE Solar Powder Bronzer in Toast

SEPHORA+PANTONE UNIVERSE Solar Powder Bronzer the bronzer has a Cosmo-designed pattern swirled with bits of highlighter that blend together to create a gorgeous glow.
 
What it does: This bronzing duet features a color harmony perfectly coordinated to complement the season’s hottest looks and your sunkissed skin. The fusion of color exalts the natural hues of the complexion for a radiant finish that contours and highlights.

How I used it: I applied the bronzer lightly on my cheeks and nose 

My Thoughts: matte finish, natural looking, gorgeous glow, blends well. I love this bronzer...very natural glow and great color I will be adding this to my regular makeup routine

Price: $24.00

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SEPHORA+PANTONE UNIVERSE Spectral Lacquer Review

What it is: A nail lacquer that finishes with a holographic, multidimensional effect

What it does: Impress with mega shine and a flashy finish this polish promises color-shifting reflections that alter depending on the angle of view and lighting.

How I used it: On my nails I used the Waterfall lacquer you can use alone or as a top coat to add a holographic look to your polish. I used it alone and Its fast drying and it has a pretty shimmer and shine.

On my Toes: I used the Antique Gold its a Bold Gold ( I apologize for my hairy toes) and the shade is beautiful and radiant when the sun hits the color.

Price Point: $10
Where to Buy: Local Sephora Stores and Online at Sephora.com

 

The product in this review was provided to the reviewer for the purpose of writing a review. This in no way affects the quality of the review provided. No monetary exchange occurred in exchange for the writing of the review. The views expressed in this review are strictly that of the reviewer. All reviews provided here are the work of the reviewer and remain completely unbiased

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Sephora MicroSmooth Baked Sculpting Trio 'Sassy' Review

The Sephora MicroSmooth Baked Sculpting Trio is a trio of luminizer, matte satin blush, and bronzer to perfectly contour and highlight. 

What it does:
This three-in-one formula is made of ultra-light, micronized pigments that effortlessly blend to enhance skintone and give you a flawless, no-makeup look and feel. The coordinated trio includes a luminizer for highlighting cheekbones, a matte satin blush to make cheeks pop, and a matte satin bronzer to contour and define. Use all three for seamless, natural-looking radiance.  

Sassy Trio

Swatches

How I used it: I mixed all three on my cheeks to achieve a natural finish.I love the results because my day to day look is really natural and I like how it added a natural glow to my skin.

Price Point: $20
Where to Buy: Local Sephora Stores and Online at Sephora.com



The product in this review was provided to the reviewer for the purpose of writing a review. This in no way affects the quality of the review provided. No monetary exchange occurred in exchange for the writing of the review. The views expressed in this review are strictly that of the reviewer. All reviews provided here are the work of the reviewer and remain completely unbiased

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