February 28th, 2013

Eye do exist but if I could clone myself this blog would be a lot busier!

xx

Image via: Revue des Modes

September 24th, 2012

Mood indigo (inspiration for a blue smokey eye).

Images: Jeff Tse via

March 31st, 2012

I heart the painted brow.

Would it be crazy to try that for real life?  I kinda want to.

Images: LF Stores via

February 16th, 2012

Makeup by MAC at The Blonds FW12 - like a butterfly’s wing.  Nails by CND.

Images - The Greyest Ghost for CofP

February 14th, 2012

Eyes smoked out to “a whisper” at Sophie Theallet FW12, by MAC with master artist Tom Pecheux.  MAC Carbon shadow created a base shape, and MAC Pro Dirty Plum and Full Fuschia blushes were washed over to intensify and add dimension.

Images - Cult of Pretty

February 11th, 2012

L.A.M.B FW12 makeup was inspired by … well, see above.  But somehow Cleopatra and Amy Winehouse found their way into the picture as well - extraordinary.

Makeup by Maybelline.

Images - Cult of Pretty

February 11th, 2012

This “dark fairy” eye at Erin Fetherson FW12 was full of tricks! I learned so much about how to do a lasting, dynamic smokey look from MAC lead artist James Kaliardos.

1. A U-shaped line was created above the eye, and reflected below, by dotting MAC Smolder Eye Kohl in the desired arc.  This was then blended, creating a BLACK PRIMER (why had I never thought of this) which James feels is essential for creating a true dark eye. 

2. MAC Carbon shadow, then Grape, were blended - it was the addition of color that made this eye truly multidimensional.  If you ever wondered how to wear purple eyeshadow without looking like you got punched … this is it.

3. Finally, MAC Platinum pigment creates an other-worldly silver glow.

James was also thrilled to pile on the MAC Haute & Naughty mascara for this look - true-to-life, as most women do love their mascara! - and a welcome relief from the more “natural” lash sent down the runways of late.

The face was flushed and flawless, with minimal touches of foundation/concealer, blush in Pink Swoon high on the cheekbones, a touch of contouring, and a clear gloss lip.

When you see it in progress (top photos), it seems very editorial, but the final look (bottom) is totally Friday night.

Images - Cult of Pretty

February 9th, 2012

The hair and makeup at Rachel Comey was minimalist perfection - a cat’s eye like a Sharpie line, and chignons you could dive into.  The clothing was similarly refined - although there were great prints (always!) and a vibrant orange, there were silhouettes so forward and flawless that they wanted for nothing and thus were presented in true black.  You can see the collection here.

Images The Greyest Ghost exclusively for CofP/ Hair & makeup Shiseido

February 5th, 2012

Fashion Week Survival Part 1 - The Kit!  This really applies to any hectic runaround period of your life.

Some of this is over on Holier than Now … but, here’s the beauty lowdown:

1. YSL Glossy Stain in Brun Cachmire ($32) | 2. Benefit Hello Flawless OxygenWOW - their amazing new sheer foundation ($34) | 3. Real Techniques Buffing Brush (in the Core Collection Set - $18) … I use this to blend in foundation and for cream blush.  It creates such a dewy, natural finish. | 4. Josie Maran Magic Marker Lip & Cheek Stain in Waltz ($19) | 5. Anastasia Highlighting Duo in St. Tropez ($26) … This is a super easy liquid highlighter and pan cream blush pair.  I just brush the buffing brush along the pan and then apply.  I use my fingers for the highlighter, along the top of cheekbones or inner eye corner. | 6. Benefit BADgal Mascara ($19) … I’m really loving this formula lately, it’s very dry - I know that sounds odd but it doesn’t clump and it’s very buildable. | 7. Benefit Stay Don’t Stray ($26) - like I’ve said before, life changing concealer and primer | 8.  YSL Volupté Sheer Candy Balm in Juicy Grapefruit ($30) | 9. False Lashes … trimmed to build corners only (there are a couple stuck side by side here).  I use an array of brands, Ardell is one ($3.49). | 10. Rohto Cool Redness Relief Eye Drops ($6.79) … Refreshing when your eyes are burning from too much good fashion. | 11. Bag behind is Stephanie Johnson, similar on sale on Yoox ($12).

I’m excited to say I’m partnering with Uber to get around for Fashion Week. You can read all about it on Holier, and sign up with promo code HOLIER for $10 off your first ride.  They operate in NYC, San Fran, Boston, Chicago, D.C., Seattle, Toronto and Paris.

2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 10, 11 c/o the brands

February 2nd, 2012

I always want to do bold things with makeup, but I don’t actually want bold makeup … do you know what I mean?

I feel like this is nirvana - it’s stunning but subtle.  I wonder if this is a custom color mix?

Image: Glamour France, makeup by Violette, via

Loading tweets...

@cultofpretty