Beauty - 3 Questions with A Makeup Artist

Meet Dallas! She's a professional photographer, and makeup artist with an inspiring website and blog. She's also the one who took these fun confetti photos of me last year. With a new season around the corner, I asked her for some tips for a spring makeup and beauty transition. Enjoy!

credit: Andria Lindquist

Winter leaves skin drab, what are some beauty tips for switching up a routine for spring?

Start by drinking as much water as possible. I use the Waterbalance app to remind myself to take breaks from working to grab a big glass of water and stay hydrated. The next thing I'd suggest would be finding some kind of exfoliating product that works for your skin. My two favourites are Lush Ocean Salt and Aveda's Exfoliant from their Botanical Kinetics line. The main point of both products is to help remove the buildup of dead skin cells and dry patches that winter seems to create. Follow this up with your favourite moisturizer immediately afterwards to avoid drying out your skin. My final tip would be to amp up the SPF of your sunscreen with the arrival of spring, since you'll be spending more time outdoors in the glorious sunshine.

What is your top pick for a seasonal blush swap?

During winter I favour cream blushes or cheek tints in rosy or wine shades. The cream formula tends to blend better with heavier, winter moisturizers I layer on. When spring arrives, I like to use classic pink or coral shades for a brighter, more cheerful look. I also switch to a powder format as soon as the weather gets warmer to help avoid shine. My all-time favourite springtime blush is NARS Gaiety.

What is your number one makeup tip to look awake?

Any kind of luminizing product that can be used to add dimension to your skin and highlight your features. Benefit makes several shades, such as High Beam, Moon Beam and Sun Beam. Choose the one that complements your skin tone and apply it to your cheekbones, cupid's bow and chin. I use either Benefit's line or I mix MAC Strobe Cream with my foundation to look upbeat and bright on even the earliest (or most hungover) of mornings.

Beauty: The Return of Lip Gloss

I have adult braces.

Although they are Invisalign, which means the trays are clear and plastic, I can't really wear lipstick anymore. Since I got my braces in October, I found that whenever I leave the house with lipstick on, my trays get smeared with colour by the time I get to a party or event.

It's not that big of a deal, but I do feel a bit self-conscious at times, in turn opting out of painting my mouth red, or any colour for that matter.

I've now switched to gloss.

I remember in high school when gloss was "cool" and everyone had different sticky, sparkly shades. Somewhere along the line, we all got sick of getting our hair stuck to our mouths, and swapped it out.

I've managed to find what I deem, adult gloss. Non-sticky versions that hydrate lips, and still give my mouth some shiny attention. It's the upgraded version of your high school crush, who now has a real job, and doesn't wear baggy golf shirts anymore.

Below are my favourite glosses (even if you're not going through a regression, and rocking plastic braces)

1. Fresh Sugar Shine Lip Treatment - This was my first foray into adult lipgloss. This treatment claims to moisturize and protect lips for 6 hours. It comes in a variety of shades, but I prefer clear. ($21)

2. Tarte Lipsurgence Skintuitive Lip Gloss - I got this gloss as a sample at Sephora with my beauty points and became obsessed. It's a universal shade that changes to the natural pink pigment of your own lips. It also has Vitamin E, jojoba seed oil, and smells amazing. ($19)

3. Clarins Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil - This gloss glides on smooth with its over sized spongy applicator. Lips are wrapped in a sweet shine, and it usually draws attention when I take it out of my purse. Try the honey shade with plum oil. ($23)

Everyday Beauty - Linda of Body Bijou

Meet Linda!

Linda is the 14 year old founder of Body Bijou, a company she started when she became interested in jewelry design, and a desire to help educate young women. After a trip to Kenya with her family, Linda and her sister Susanna realized they couldn't ignore the fact that not all women were as privileged as them.

Upon returning to Canada, Susanna founded Girls Helping Girls, a not-for-profit that helps girls in need attend school. Linda then decided that Body Bijou's business model would donate 50% of net profits to her sister's charity.

Linda is well-spoken, confident, smart and stunning (I mean, I remember looking like an awkward green bean in Grade 9!!). She's passionate about giving back to those less fortunate, and devoted to working on her designs. Last night she won Startup Canada's Young Entrepreneur of the Year award. I stood by as guest after guest came up to congratulate and listen to her speak.

Body Bijou has a wide variety of handmade jewelry, and unique pieces like body chains, ringalets and hip chains. The best part of purchasing a product is knowing that half of your contribution is going directly to improve the status of women all over the world. There has never been a time where education for girls and raising their social status has been more important.

In some exciting news, I'm happy to announce that I am Body Bijou's new PR Director! While I still have my day job, this project is very close to my heart. It has been a great experience working with Linda and her amazing mother. 

To learn more about Body Bijou, Girls Helping Girls and Linda's story, visit their website, follow them on Twitter, and reach out on Facebook. 

The (Over) Worked Girl's Guide to Life

Remember when I posted last week about looking forward to picnics and hanging with the Duchess? Well, sometimes you have to cancel your plans and work through the weekend.

I work in client services, which means that when the client needs something, you work until 10 p.m. on a weeknight, or Saturday morning with your team to get it done. When I'm on a hustle-by-the-hour work schedule, the rest of my life seems to fall by the wayside.

I know blogging is all about showing the perfect outfit, the perfect cat-eye and the perfect Sunday brunch with peonies, but that's not always reality. I'm not ashamed to admit that sometimes I choose an outfit based on what's not wrinkled in my closet, or that I've fallen asleep with wet hair and a granola bar in my hand after a late shower. 

Anyways, for those who sometimes find themselves in the same stress boat, below are some products, tips and tools that I've turned to when work becomes werk.

I'm awake, I swear: When I'm working ungodly hours, I don't wear mascara. I know that by the end of the day it will be anywhere but my lashes. To achieve a "not dead" look, I try to focus on my brows. Strong, shaped brows can make you look awake, even if your eyes are bare. I use Benefit's Speed Brow to tame the hair, and Diorshow Brow Styler to fill in the spares.

Was your mother a raccoon? Even polished brows won't disguise sleepless nights or early mornings. While my mother isn't a raccoon, I have inherited dark circles from someone in my family. A few clicks of YSL Touche Éclat does wonders to look awake, and diffuse a bit of light in an area that only wants to hit a pillow.

Kitchen cobwebs: I enjoy cooking, but when I'm on a strict office schedule, the last thing I want to do is sit in front of a pot, or a chopping block. I try to grab carrots, apples and cucumbers to snack on in the day (if I'm not raiding my office cupboard) and if I'm really exhausted a granola bar can substitute for almost anything. Clif Bar sent me their new bars to try and I ate the Clif Mojo Dark Chocolate Almond Sea Salt in two bites. Made with 70% organic ingredients, the bars are also gluten-free. Throw a few in your purse to get you through a long meeting.

The 7 minute workout - When you're time starved, going for a run or to the gym just doesn't fit. I don't like completely falling off my exercise routine, so this 7 minute workout is my no excuse go-to when I can't find the full time. Trust me, it feels longer.

The real world: When I work this much, I cancel plans, I ignore my personal emails and I recluse. Sometimes calling someone on the walk home, or sending a text keeps you feeling connected to those around you when you're only a few days away from a normal schedule. My dad called me last night and laughed through my dramatic story about the stress of being in charge of pressing the clicker during a PowerPoint presentation.

Okay, okay, back to finding your peonies on Pinterest...

Everyday Beauty - Adyam

Say hello to my latest Everyday Beauty, Adyam. I met with the budding entrepreneur to discuss self-acceptance, bathing suit anxiety, and pursuing your personal passion.

On a life-changing trip to Brazil, Adyam noticed that women on the beach had an abundance of confidence. All local women, including those who would be considered large by North American standards, strutted down the sand in skimpy, thong bikinis. No one stared at them, and if anyone did, they didn't seem to care.

It was after this trip that Adyam was inspired to start her own bathing suit line, focusing on a more accurate representation of women and their bodies. With no design background and no idea where to start, she brought 20 bikinis back from Brazil to learn about the fabrics and design. She then quit her job in finance (which she hated) and became an entrepreneur. 

From there, she worked with three local women from Brazil to get her designs brought to life. It was important to her that she worked with local women, to support the economy, and avoid child, or sweatshop labour. These women are part of the creation of her line. Her brand name? Filosofia Swimwear. Filosofia is the Portuguese word for philosophy. 

"It focuses on the idea of questioning your own philosophy of beauty, of body image, of swimwear. I want to create a movement of consciousness. I want to change the way women view each other," said Adyam. 

She believes that women also need to embrace other images of beauty by supporting each other, and most of all, accepting their own bodies. Through letting go of stereotypes and expanding the notion of what is considered beautiful, women can feel safe to try on a bathing suit and walk down the beach; even if a magazine doesn't deem them "beach bod ready." 

With springy, stunner hair, wide expressive eyes, and a strong, positive attitude, I don't think anyone needs convincing of her beauty. Filosofia Swimwear will launch Summer 2014.

For more information, visit: Filosofiaswimwear.com, and follow along on Twitter and Instagram.

The Skin Fight: Honey, Beads, Acid

Lately, my face has been freaking out like a tween who has just been told by her parents that they are taking away her smartphone for a month.

I always assumed that pimples, blemishes, and cystic spots from hell would be something that I would look back upon as the wayward skin habits of my youth. Instead, I am a seemingly full-fledged adult who still wakes up with lovely surprises. As mentioned, my skin has been a nightmare this past month and if you've ever experienced problem skin, you know that referrals are your best friend.

I spend way too much time online reading; I don't need to spend another hour trolling the Sephora review section. Below are a few items that I've been using that have helped significantly in my quest for clearer skin. 

Honey Masks: While Mariah sang it best, honey is a natural remedy for acne-prone skin. The best way to use it is to simply pour a few globs in your hands, warm it up with your fingers and apply directly to the face. Honey is also anti-bacterial and healing. Try to use an organic brand to get the most out of the mask. I leave mine on for 20 minutes. 

Flake Off: Exfoliation is the key to good, no wait, great skin. I recently bought REN's Micro Polish Cleanser which uses microbeads to remove old crusty scales to reveal fresh, out of the womb skin. It's also made with gentle ingredients and doesn't include icky things like synthetic fragrances, parabens or sulfates. 

Acid Trip: Clinique's Acne Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel (with salicylic acid) has been my little helper in spot treatments. Salicylic acid is used as a topical treatment to heal and prevent acne, and this gel version is my new motorcycle sidecar, sidekick.  

The Trend: Pointy Nails

My high school was a Mecca for fake nails.

Girls would wear theirs extra long, acrylic and square shaped with colourful tips. At a Catholic school with a strict uniform, perhaps nails were the only way to stand out. Black tips, pink tips, fluorescent yellow faded tips— this was an act of rebellion from maroon sweaters and navy blue pants.

I would only get fake nails for special occasions like semi-formals, weddings or proms. Everyone was doing it, and I began to equate french manicures with being fancy. I really didn't love them though. I didn't like sitting and waiting for them to be put on. I hated how weak my nails felt after I took them off.

I always knew what I wanted, or liked, but in high school it's hard to step outside what your friends are doing. While I still shudder at the sight of anything square tipped, I might change my stance on faux nails after seeing my office partner-in-crime Laura waltz into work with pointy ones.

I immediately fell in love, without thinking about how I would ever hold a pen again, or wash my hair, or type on a keyboard. This week she came into the office with nude claws that had tiny, white flowers painted on the tips.

While I'm not quite ready for talons, I did get inspired to do my own nails this week. My pick? Butter LONDON's, Tea Time with the Queen. It's the perfect nearly naked nude. Note: I also love that Butter LONDON doesn't add formaldehyde to any of their polishes. It makes me feel good about my manicure.

So whether you try the talon trend, or go nude, dare I ask - how do you like your nails?

Beauty Picks - The Face

While neither of these items would have been on my top 10 beauty list a year ago, these two have managed to become staples. I used to think that oil would make my skin greasy, and tinted moisturizer would make my skin look like I'm wearing foundation.

Neither assumptions are true. Below are my top two beauty picks for the face:

Boscia Tsubaki Beauty Oil: This facial oil protects against free radicals and aging, while leaving my skin softer after every use. It's light enough to use under a daily moisturizer, (especially on cold days) or more heavily at night. It has fatty and omega 3 acids, wakame (Japanese sea kelp) and camellia oil. I love that it is made without parabens, sulfates or phthalates. It's a bit pricey, ($55) but ask for a sample if you want to test it out.

Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer: I have no clue how to match my skin tone, nor do I know how to apply anything with a brush or those weird little beauty spatulas. I also don't like the feeling of looking like I have something "covering" up my skin. This tinted moisturizer leaves my skin looking like my skin, only better. It gives me a fresh base to apply makeup, with an almost even sheen. Also, a pricey choice, ($49) but I've had mine for a few months and a little goes a long way. It also is made without parabens, sulfates or phthalates, and has SPF 30. My shade, if interested is: Alaska.

*note: these beauty products were not sent to me, but I personally feel strongly about them to review them. Enjoy! 

Everyday Beauty - Meet Jaclyn

Meet Jaclyn! 

One of the first things she told me when we sat down together is that she's a storyteller. 

She's a new blogger, life questioner and pursuer of honest intentions. After receiving her Master's degree in education, she realized that she didn't actually want to spend her life in the classroom. Instead, she set off on a quest to figure out what it is she really wants to do; what she's good at. She didn't just follow a path because it was set out for her.

I soaked up our conversation like a biscotti in hot espresso. I find bravery in people who are willing to ask themselves the big questions and really explore who they want to become. Jac told me about her struggles and ambitions, and we both agreed that 2013 was a lost year for both of us. She is curious to know what young adults define as personal success. 

When it comes to outer beauty, it's hard not to notice her dimples and electric green eyes; I can't.even.talk about her skin. After our conversation, I felt like we'd known each other for years, not just through mutual friends. I can't wait to see where she takes off. 

For more on Jaclyn, visit her blog at Jacgabs.com. 

Everyday Beauty - Muhubo

I met Muhubo during my time working at a new PR agency.

We were coworkers but became fast friends. She was the first person to teach me how to use a French Press since we had a communal one in the office; (I'm now obsessed with my own) and she was always giving me advice and helping me through my day.

I was grateful to have a new friend in a new place. We reconnected recently over coffee, and there was one thing different about her from the last time we saw each other.

HER HAIR!?

She used to have extensions that rested almost to her belly. They were blonde and long and she wore them in so many different styles. She told me that this haircut happened because she had a tangling incident with her braid extensions that left her no choice but to lop it all off. I told her that if I cut off all of my hair, I'd look like Felicity, or Justin Timblerlake circa 90s Nsync.

Our portrait series was one of my absolute favourites. Muhubo brings light everywhere she goes. Generally when people cut off all of their hair in a dramatic way, they are itching for it to grow back.

Instead Muhubo owns it, revealing a face that doesn't need anything extra to shine.

Everyday Beauty - Emily J

I met Emily a couple of years ago in PR school.

We recently reunited over tea, leaving us with a year and a half gap to fill in. We recapped our travels, career paths, relationships and future ambitions, until we were all caught up.

From invitations inside Buckingham Palace, to yoga spa retreats in Costa Rica, I can't even begin to describe Emily's adventures. Emily is a great listener and a strong conversationalist. She makes you feel like you're really special when you talk to her; she draws you in.

There is really no need for me to go on about her outer beauty. (Those eyes, that skin, her smile). It's the kind that makes strangers stop and stare as we stroll down the street.

We also chatted about the crossroads that people in their late twenties face, and she seems to be facing a few big ones. No matter what uncertainty is ahead, she is one person who I know will always propel forward in the most spectacular way.

All we can do is watch.

Below are the photos! Enjoy.

Everyday Beauty - Laura

Meet Laura!

We work together in "PR land" and spend a good share of our bonding time bouncing out of the office starved for something caffeinated. If you pop by Laura's desk, you will instantly notice her love affair with felines due to her desk decor. My favourite item is a cut-out cat calendar that rests by her keyboard.

Someone once captioned a photo of her saying she looks like a young Meryl Streep. I always tell her that she has the face for the big screen, with her wide expressive cornflower blue eyes, hair that looks like it was highlighted by baby angels and ridiculously translucent skin. Laura also has strength in her stature, and a softness in her demeanour that doesn't make you too intimidated by her. She's cool, without ever dare telling you that she's cool.

Below are some photos I took on a coffee break. Cut-out cat calendar not included.

Enjoy! x

Everyday Beauty - Kelly Lynn

Meet Kelly!

Back in PR school (where we met) we both launched blogs for our social media class assignment. I always loved Kel's blog, Little Red Book and I was so happy when she re-launched her site. Her blog is the ideal destination for DIY, decor, style and beauty. Kelly recently got engaged so she is planning a wedding, and moving into a new loft. She also recently travelled to Italy with her fiancé, so we finally caught up on our trips over a weeknight dinner of caprese salad and margherita pizza.

Kelly's style is always precisely measured - with just the right amount of accessories, or splashes of pattern. Her beauty lies in her pale blue eyes that scrunch up when she laughs, and those pouty lips that beg to be painted. Never overdone, or overdressed; Kelly shows up to every occasion - from a meeting over espresso to a black-tie formal with sartorial expertise, minus the snobbery. 

Check out her blog, and the photos I took below!

Enjoy! x

Everyday Beauty - Leslie

Meet Leslie! 

I met her during my cooking class in Florence. She is from Guatemala, and was taking some time off to travel before starting college. She seemed to be best friends with Ane, and I had to ask if they knew each other before this trip because they seemed that close. They were always giggling, teasing each other and speaking Spanish during class like they've known each other their whole lives. 

It always seemed that Leslie's wide, Julia Roberts' smile and bouncy hair seemed to enter the room before she did. Yet, when she got in front of my camera she really came to life. I didn't have to coax her to be brave. She spun, and smiled and strutted like a real natural. It was then that I really saw that beauty may start off about something external, but it's always about confidence. 

It seems Leslie already knew that. 

Below is the series, one of my favourites yet. Enjoy! x

Everyday Beauty - Ane

I first noticed Ane (pronounced Annie) in my cooking class.

She was the girl who always volunteered to chop vegetables and mix sauces. When she speaks, her voice is surprisingly raspy. It instantly sets her apart from the girls with the high pitched chalkboard voices. I learned that in her spare time she bakes cakes. She's 18 years old, from Costa Rica and is taking some time off to travel before starting school.

Her hair is the most beautiful colour, like golden fireworks that spill from the sky. Ane smiles so much that she couldn't keep a straight face for our shoot. The photos I took are a bit overexposed, but I blame Ane. She seems to reflect light everywhere she goes.

The rest of us can't help but be blinded.

Everyday Beauty - Merve

Meet Merve!

Merve is from Germany and she is also studying Italian in Florence for a portion of the summer. While we are not in the same class, (Merve speaks much better Italian than I) we met on a trip to Cinque Terre a couple of weekends ago. I also run into Merve often at our local cafe where we both seem to enjoy a daily espresso. When I asked Merve if I could take her photo, she responded the way most people do,

"Oh me? Really?! I don't look good in photos."

I assured her that everyone says this exact thing, and everyone who says this about themselves is very wrong. The Everyday Beauty series is about capturing people in a natural state: staring off into the distance, walking down a cobblestone street, enjoying a laugh with a friend. It's about noticing something special about someone. For me, I noticed Merve's relaxed approach to style and killer sunglasses.

I took these photos as we waited for the next train, and while they are a little grainy (the sun was strong and I couldn't quite see the final results on my screen) I loved Merve's positive attitude towards the whole thing. x

Everyday Beauty - Maria

If you read Not A Model lately, or browse Instagram you may wonder who takes the few photos that I appear in.

The answer is Maria.

Maria is my new roommate at my Italian apartment in Florence. She is from Thessaloniki, Greece. As I mentioned in a previous post, Maria is a civil engineer, who abandoned that career to follow her artistic passion for making jewelry. She launched her very own brand, called My Precious in Greece and has since been working full time to create her line. (I've already placed my order for a new necklace).

Despite my initial fear of living with strangers in a foreign country, (cue the possible nightmares), Maria is a gift of a roommate. She is thoughtful, funny and kind; the type of person who would always attract new friends. Maria likes to drench herself in bright clothes and accessories, with a girly flair for bows, ribbons and patterned pants. She is statuesque and beautiful, with wide expressive eyes that easily give away her feelings. Italian men love to discount all items for her as she walks by.

Though there is a slight language barrier between us, (she speaks mainly Greek, but also English and a bit of Italian), it seems that talking about relationships (she tells me all about her Greek boyfriend), dessert (she indulges in my gelato fixation) and window shopping (we can't seem to get enough) is universally translatable.

Below are the photos I took. Enjoy! x