ALLURE Makeup Artistry

Golden Globe beauty: Mila Kunis

2012-01-16T10:03:00.001-05:00

We love award season, especially scoping out celeb hair and makeup looks on the red-carpet! Our fave from last night's Golden Globe is Mila Kunis, with beautifully lined eyes, and clean glowing makeup!

Happy 2012!

2012-01-09T09:59:00.000-05:00

A new year marks the beginning of a fresh, new start, and of course, wedding shows! We visited the premiere WedLuxe show on January 8 at the beautiful Ritz-Carlton Toronto, and found loads of inspiration from all the uber-talented vendors there. Here's a few shots from the show :)

Inspiration: Chanel's Paris to Bombay makeup looks

2011-12-18T09:37:00.000-05:00

We're totally blown away by the exquisite details of Chanel's Paris to Bombay show, especially the beautiful makeup!

Incredible deal for 2012 brides!

2011-11-30T14:52:00.000-05:00

We're looking at you, 2012 brides! First 10 brides to book bridal makeup services with us will get a special rate through WEDDeals.ca. Book now to get this incredible, limited-time offer: Bridal makeup package includes: consultation, trial, face chart, false lash application, on-site service on your big day and complimentary touch-up kit including lipstick, blotting paper and compact mirror!
$150.00 value at 50% savings! You pay $75.00!
Makeup consultation and trial by appointment only.

Vintage lakeside bridal shoot

2011-10-13T14:49:00.000-04:00

Peachy pink bridal makeup

2011-09-05T14:24:00.000-04:00

Antique-gold, copper and rust bridal makeup

2011-08-09T14:43:00.000-04:00

Designer wear fashion shoot

2011-07-22T14:40:00.000-04:00

Peacock inspired bridal makeup

2011-06-10T14:39:00.000-04:00

Special event makeup!

2011-05-04T09:00:00.000-04:00

Got a special event to go to? Have a birthday coming up? Book us to get you dolled up! Here's a couple of pics from our point-and-shoot camera, of makeup we did for Femi, the birthday girl! Contact us to get pampered! http://www.alluremakeupartistry.ca/

Glamour Session photoshoot with Kristen!

2011-04-06T11:46:00.002-04:00

We are excited to collaborate with F. Kirmani Photography to now offer Glamour Sessions in our menu of services! Get primped by ALLURE Makeup Artistry; we'll design and create a hair and makeup look for just for you, followed by a professional photo shoot with F. Kirmani Photography! Contact us to book your session today! http://www.alluremakeupartistry.ca/

Fashion photo shoot

2011-03-18T22:01:00.000-04:00

My amazingly talented hubby F. Kirmani Photography and I recently teamed up with fashion design house Faru and Mehru Haute Couture for a photo shoot. Nine outfit changes later, here are the pictures of our beautiful model Aisha Malik, showcasing our collaborative efforts. Enjoy all the shots on our Look Book!

NY F/W 2011 Fashion Week beauty roundup

2011-02-23T11:29:00.001-05:00

The much anticipated New York Fall/Winter 2011 Fashion Week, with all its artistic glory, wrapped up last week. So we're forecasting a roundup of backstage magic, and beauty trend takeaways from the models who pranced the catwalk.

MAC Cosmetics for Behnaz Sarafpour show:
taupe eyes + winged liner + pale gold lips = Golden Goddess

Bobbi Brown Cosmetics for Rachel Roy show:
bronze eyes + rust lips + earthy blush = World Traveler

Nars Cosmetics for Marc Jacobs show:

rosy cheeks + dark, defined upper lash line = '70's Inspiration

MAC Cosmetics for Altuzarra show:

grey winged eyeshadow + ruby lips = Glam Rock Edge

The verdict: Emerging beauty trends are about the power woman, who is embellised with luxe, rubies and a touch of crimson.

Beauty at the Grammys!

2011-02-13T22:18:00.006-05:00

We love red-carpet watching, with celebs strutting not only their gowns, but also rocking gorgeous hair and makeup. Here's our favs:

Katy Perry is absolutely ethereal with lavender shadow, and so au-currant with bright, matte fuscia lips!

We're a fan of Ciara; she's looking smoking hot with this wonder-woman inspired look

Speaking of smoking, Dianna Agron 's smouldering eyes are phemon!

In true Kardashian style, Kim's looking glam in gold but we could do without the spidey-lashes...although she pulls it off

Fresh-faced Selena Gomez with flirty pink lips. Also, loving the waves.

Love is in the air...!

2011-02-10T20:37:00.014-05:00

V-day's just around the corner, and we think it's another legit reason to treat yourselves to some new beauty gems, no not real gems (although those would be nice too ;) but to one - or all - of these beauty finds. Also, it's a sneaky way to perhaps give your-not-so-clued-in hunny about what you're eyeing ;)

Sephora Color Palette in 52 shades. It contains 32 eyeshadows, 16 lip colors, 3 blushes and a bronzer. A steal at $24!

Tarina Tarantino Fuscia Revolution Brush set $69. Includes: Powder, eyeshadow, smudge, liner and crease brushes. Available at Sephora

Lancome Tresor In Love Eau de Parfum, 50mL, $75. Top notes include: Peach, sour pear nectarine and bergamot with a heart of rose and jasmine and base of cedar. Available at Shoppers Drug Mart

Or, treat yourself to this colour of passion from Vasanti Cosmetics, lipstick shade in USA. It's beautifully formulated in a matte finish and loaded with anti-oxidants to keep your pout hydrated.

S/S 2011 Beauty Trend: Pop Art lips

2011-02-08T09:20:00.004-05:00

We're pretty unimpressed with the frigid temps outside, so we're shaking up our makeup routine to channel an emerging springtime beauty trend of, statement lips (might as well start early!). Understandably, it's not easy to break away from your makeup rut (for us: black liner + nude lips), but once you muster up the courage to put on one of spring's fearless hues in orange, coral, fushica, red or bright pink, there's no going back. True, it takes a bit of guts at first but swiping on a neon shade not only adds oomph, but really does give us a pick-me-up boost and chase away the washed-out-blues.

Here's a tip to keep you looking modern, and not a reincarnation from the '80's - be sure the lipstick you choose is flat, cream or matte finish, meaning no shimmer, frost, sparkle or any other reflective formulations - trust us, don't go there :) Flat and matte shades is what makes this trend fresh and current, gloss is acceptable.
The other bit of good news is there's no need to drop serious cash on these tendy colours; drug-store brands like Revlon, Cover Girl and L'Oreal have sizzling shades available with these finishes.

And....here's yours truly with bebe, sporting red

ALLURE was there: Nuxe Paris @ Park Hyatt

2011-02-03T10:14:00.046-05:00

This morning, we had breakfast at the Park Hyatt Toronto hotel for the unveiling of Nuxe Body products; breakfast + beauty prods = a good day :) The company's CEO Aliza Jabes, flew in from France for the launch, and delivered an inspiring presentation about the growth of her brand since its inception in 1991.
Nuxe Paris - a French line of beauty and body care products - offers formulas with natural ingredients, souffle textures, packaged in feminine fragrances. The Nuxe Paris brand lends its roots from the world of pharmaceuticals, and contains ingredients derived from plant-extracts such as coconut, rice, orange zest, lichee kernel and brazilian Mimosa to name a few.
Nuxe Body range officially hits Canadian shelves in April and can be found at The Bay; here are the highlights:

Fondant Shower Gel
Fondant Body Scrub
24hr Moisturizing Body Lotion
Fondant Firming Cream
Body Contouring Serum
Body Contouring Oil

S/S 2011 Colour story: Fierce eyes

2011-02-01T23:37:00.003-05:00

It's only the first day of February; anyone else feeling the winter blahs? We're beyond bored of all the cold and snowy weather. The upside is, things are heating up in the beauty front. There's a lot to look foward to for the Spring/Summer 2011 colour story.
Get ready for a burst of colour explosion! Here's one of our fave look for eyes:

Fierce eyes: as seen on this sunny Feb/March 2011 cover of glow magazine, art directed by our friend, the talented Jackie Shipley!
The key to wearing pop-up shades is to anchor the hue with black eyeliner and mascara. Also, be sparing in application as a little colour will make a bold statement - no need to apply it up to the brow bone! This is how the trend translates into being wearable and makes you look current.
Speaking of sparing, keep the rest of the face neutral in contrast; there's nothing quite like the shock of seeing all the makeup trends happening on a face - at the same time! :)
Stay tuned for more upcoming beauty trends!

Clairol Giveaway!

2011-01-24T12:23:00.001-05:00

Who doesn't like free stuff? Especially on a frigid day, like the one we're having here in Toronto. So...listen up! Clairol is giving away a whopping 100,000 FREE boxes of new Nice n' Easy Color Blend Foam starting today, for the next 4 days! How to score one: Simply join the Clairol Facebook page, "Like" and follow instructions on the fan page on how to be a part of this enormous giveaway! Don't wait too long!

MAC + Mickey Contractor S/S 2011 Collection

2011-01-21T23:45:00.000-05:00

South Asian beauties have yet another reason to flock to the nearest MAC counter; MAC's Director of Makeup Artistry for India, Mickey Contractor has launched a collection with brand new shades, especially designed to compliment caramel skin. For those who don't know, he's only the king of Bollywood, when it comes to makeup and is the creative force behind many Bollywood celebs' glamorous faces. The collection consists of specially formulated colours to match the spectrum of South Asian skin tones, all with spunky names and a Bollywood twist to boot.

Here's the lowdown on what's new:

To help you on your quest in attaining a natural, flawless complection, try Studio Fix Fluid Foundation in NC41, NC43.5 and NC44.5.

There's also Select Moisturecover Concealer in NC23, NC43, NC44 or NC45.5, and Select Moisturecover Duo in Coral and Yellow to camoflouge under eye circles and even out your complextion.
Blush: Gana, a bright white gold in frost finish and Sur, a mid-tone rose brown in satin finish (both are limited editions).
Prep + Prime Tranparent Finishing powder - an invisible setting powder to match all skin tones.

Lipstick shades:
Mehr Mid-tone blue pink (Matte) (LE)
Yash Deep neutral (Matte) (LE)
Gulabi Bright fuchsia (Amplified) (LE)
Mocha Peachy yellow-brown (Satin)

Tinted Lipglass:

Flesh Mid-tone nude brown (Frost) (LE)

Lust Soft muted pink (Frost)

Athma Eyeshadow X4 Quad (LE)
Jaan Light neutral with soft gold pearl (Lustre) (LE)
Vivah Brown with gold pearl (Lustre) (LE)
Folie Reddish-plum brown (Satin)
Carbon Matte black (Matte)

Eyeshadows:
Oomph Forest green with soft gold pearl (Veluxe Pearl) (LE)
Marvel Deep purple with soft pink pearl (Frost) (LE)
Rani Bright fuchsia with soft pink pearl (Frost) (LE)
Saffron Deep coral caramel (Satin) (LE)

Fluidline:
Siahi Deep turquoise blue (LE)
Ivy Bright green (LE)

Keep in mind that most of these shades are limited edition, so get them while you can!

For all you fans of The Office!

2011-01-20T12:30:00.001-05:00

I stumbled on this picture and realized I forgot to post this picture of me, with The Office star, Angela Kingsley, at a Clairol hair colour event last year (she's the official spokeswoman for Roots Touch Up). Her character on the show cracks me up; she's cranky, uptight and always adorned in some shade of grey. She's totally the opposite in real life - bubbly, funny and super friendly! Viola!

Our fave Golden Globe beauties!

2011-01-19T15:52:00.002-05:00

Time for some post GG admiration, we love watching the red carpet for hair and makeup inspiration, and take cues for the upcoming season. Here's who made it to our Top 5 best beauty looks:

Mila Kunis is looking flawless, with gorgeous skin, long flirty lashes and warm, apricot hues - love the eyebrows too.

Halle Berry can't ever look bad, even if she tried. I can't believe she's 43, she looks as beautiful as ever with classic smokey eyes and nude lips.

Olivia Wilde is spotted looking fresh with simple hair, a blunt fringe and sultry eyes.

January Jones looks absolutely ravishing in red, with old-hollywood waves and a fire-engine pout.

Megan Fox is sizzling with beautiful, tumbling curls and pretty pink lips.

These Hollywood beauties got it spot on!

Shots from Vintage Bridal shoot

2010-11-15T11:19:00.004-05:00

We are thrilled with the results of our collaboration with stylist Shellyza Jetha, owner of Runway! Expressions. Shellyza sourced out this beautiful and feathery bridal gown by Stefani Mas. Here are the pictures, taken by F. Kirmani Photography!

Makeup and hair by: ALLURE Makeup Artistry

Get beautified in Toronto!

2010-10-28T11:58:00.004-04:00

Not like you ever really need a reason to get primped and pampered, but if you do, here a good one! Indulge in some polishing, buffing and grooming at Beautylicious, from October 28 to November 7. The uppity Bloor-Yorkville area in Toronto is hosting a 10 day health and beauty event with specially-priced spa, hair, skincare, beauty and wellness packages from over 50 spas and salons in the area, offering limited time deals on their services. Also, a fab reason to check out cool and exclusive beauty joints in our city! If you're there, don't forget to check out Hazelton Lanes, one of my personal favourite hidden gems in T.O. Prices range from $25 to $125, depending on what type of service you're getting. Be sure to book your appointments in advance at: www.bloor-yorkville.com/Beautylicious!

Carmindy launches a makeup line

2010-10-21T14:36:00.002-04:00

TV show What Not to Wear's resident beauty guru, Carmindy has paired up with Sally Hanson to launch her own paraben-free makeup collection Natural Beauty Inspired by Carmindy. Known for her flawless, light-handed makeovers and expert highlighting skills, Carmindy brings the same 'glowing' radiance to her cosmetics. The product line consist of:
~Airbrush Spray Makeup, applied by shaking the foundation bottle and spraying directly onto skin, on or a sponge
~Truely Translucent Loose Powder, comes with a sponge-in-cap applicator that delivers unique powder-to-skin coverage
~All Over Brightner/Fast Fix Concealer, available in two speciality shades: yellow to neutralize and pink to brighten and highlight
~Luminizing Face Primer, made with smoothing agents including cork oak, vitamin E and olive leaf to nourish skin
You can get your hands on this stuff at The Shopping Channel.
Have a fabulous day!

ALLURE was there: Revlon's 2011 product launch

2010-10-20T12:13:00.004-04:00

We attended Revlon's 2011 product launch on Thursday, Oct. 14 at the swanky Thompson Hotel in Toronto. The event itself was an uber-glam affair, with makeup and nail stations for guests to play around with, and check out the latest Revlon products. On hand was Revlon's head of research and development Alan Meyers, explaining the innovation used to formulate their new products. As fascinating as the science and technology of cosmetics is, we were super eager to hear from Gucci Westman, Revlon's global artistic director and one of the most sought-after international makeup artists around. Not only did she dish the scoop the on upcoming beauty trends (illuminating skin and bright eyes) she demonstrated the looks on models!
Here's a peak inside our goodie bag:
Crazy Shine nail buffer
Custom Eyes Metallic Chic shadow kit
Colour Burst Lipstick in Fashion's Night Pout
Lacquered Lip Gloss in Bordeaux and Gold Dust

Until next time,
xoxo

We're Tweeting too :)

2010-10-19T08:29:00.002-04:00

Speaking of shameless self-promotion, while we're at it, catch us on Twitter too; www.twitter/ALLUREMakeupArt ;)

"Like" ALLURE Makeup Artistry on Facebook!

2010-10-19T08:16:00.017-04:00

We're shamelessly spreading the word about ALLURE Makeup Artistry, so check out our Facebook Fan Page and hit "Like"!

Check out our profile on Makeup Artist Listings!

2010-10-18T17:08:00.006-04:00

Yay! We're excited to be featured on Makeup Artist Listings!

Also, you can find our profile on their Facebook Page.

Guest blog featured on Toronto Wedding Society!

2010-10-18T17:06:00.003-04:00

Bridal Beauty: Hiring a makeup artist | ALLURE Makeup Artistry

by Toronto Wedding Society · 2 comments

in Blog, TWS Talk

If wedding day jitters is making your otherwise-steady-hands shake, then perhaps it’s a good idea to put down the eyeliner and hire a professional. Booking a bridal makeup artist for your wedding day also means one less thing to worry about and besides, it’s such a treat, so go ahead and pamper yourself! A professional bridal makeup artist will help bring your vision to life. Here are tips on how you can get the results you want.

The Search

Department store makeup counters, referrals from your hairstylist or family and friends are some ways to begin your search for a makeup artist. Another quick way to start your search is by checking out professional websites and online portfolios. Once you’ve narrowed down a few favourites, contact them for a consultation. Some questions to ask are rates and what’s included in the service, is on-location service available, and references from past clients. Be ready to discuss your vision, wedding colours and event details. The next step is to book a trial with the one that impresses you the most.

The Trial

There is usually a nominal fee charged for makeup trials, which is adjusted into the total cost, if the makeup artist is booked. Bring pictures, colour swatches, jewellery and any other inspirational items that communicate your desired look. Speak up about your likes as well as your dislikes, as this will guide your makeup artist in creating a look that you will love. Discuss any skincare or allergy concerns at this time. Keep in mind makeup for wedding photography is different from everyday makeup, as it needs to be last throughout the day with minimal need for touch-ups, and also be captured in pictures. This is the time to try out a few different looks and communicate what you like and what you want to change because everyone’s definition of glamorous, fresh and dramatic can vary.

The Contract

Once you’ve decided to book a makeup artist, it’s best to get the details in writing to secure a booking. Information should include location address, timing, the deposit amount and amount owing, as well as colours and products used in the trial to recreate you wedding day look.

As makeup artists, we realize as you walk down the aisle, all are on you, and our goal is to accentuate and bring out your best features and natural beauty.

Best wishes!

ALLURE Makeup Artistry

http://www.alluremakeupartistry.ca/

Photography: F. Kirmani Photography

Welcome note

2010-10-18T17:04:00.002-04:00

Hello Lovelies,

Welcome to my new ALLURE Makeup Artistry blog! I'm excited to launch this blog as an extension of my first beauty blog Press Pass Beauty and my new website ALLURE Makeup Artistry, as well as a spot to dish on all things beauty. You'll also find out about exciting projects that I'm working on for ALLURE Makeup Artistry here too, so stayed tuned! This blog will continue to combine my two passions: beauty + writing, and I intend to blend it with a generous dose of global flavour. The tone of ALLURE Makeup Artistry blog will focus on beauty news, product reviews, trendspotting and celeb looks along with being a platform for world beauty. Happy reading!

PS. I'd love to hear from you. Feel free to drop me a line at: alluremakeupartistry@gmail.com

Sarah