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samboulosbeauty.com Beauty Blogger MUA | Glam by Sam

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If you had told me a year ago that minimalist makeup would be something that I wear on the daily… I would have thrown my 24-hour wear, full coverage foundation, and mink lashes right at you. Essentially, I never imagined that my makeup routine would evolve this much in such a short amount of time!

From working hands-on in cosmetic education & sales to now working behind the scenes in the same industry, the need to wear a dramatic cut crease and heavy contour on the daily has definitely diminished. Now don’t get me wrong – I still love a full face of makeup; however, on a daily basis, my ideal look involves the least amount of makeup and effort to deliver the strongest impact!

SKIN

To prep my skin for makeup, I always begin with MAC Cosmetics Strobe Cream, followed by FARSALI Skintune Blur. Strobe Cream works to moisturize my skin while providing a beautiful luminosity, whereas Skintune Blur blurs my skin, reduces the appearance of pores and imperfections, and hydrates my skin at the same time!

For foundation, I use a light layer of the Clinique Beyond Perfecting Foundation + Concealer. This foundation has been my go-to for almost two years now. I absolutely love the coverage and the finish of this. It provides a beautiful light-medium coverage, so my natural skin texture still peeks through, and the finish is so natural, it looks like I have nothing on my skin.

Once my skin tone is even, I apply concealer under my eyes to brighten the center of my face and wake up my complexion. Lately, I have been using the Maybelline Fit Me Concealer along with the Maybelline Fit Me Loose Powder for highlighting, and I love this combo! These products together keep my under eyes bright throughout the entire day.

When the base is done, I complete the face with the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in “Brilliant Nude”. The formula of this blush is not only extremely long wearing, but this shade specifically has a gorgeous bronzy undertone with gold reflex in it – so I am able to achieve the look of bronzer, blush, and highlighter all with one sweep across the cheeks (mind BLOWN)! On the days where I want to amp up my look, I will add a light dusting of the Laura Mercier Matte Radiance Baked Powder Compact to the cheekbones and bridge of the nose for some extra dimension and glow!

EYES | BROWS | LIPS

Majority of my makeup routine focuses on making my skin look healthy and radiant. Once this is achieved, I top off the look with my eyes, brows, and lips. I apply a light amount of the Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz in “Soft Brown” to mask any sparse areas that may appear. Next, I apply the L’oreal Lash Paradise Mascara to my top lashes for a subtle pop of drama and to open up my eyes. Lastly, I apply MAC Cosmetics’ “Honey Love” lipstick to the center of my lips and then blend out the edges using my ring finger.

What are your favourite everyday glam products? Let me know down below in the comments!

SB

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  Minimalist Makeup If you had told me a year ago that minimalist makeup would be something that I wear on the daily… I would have thrown my 24-hour wear, full coverage foundation, and mink lashes right at you.

[glambysam]

Foundation is one of the few items in my makeup routine that I have experienced a love-hate relationship with. While I simply could not achieve flawless makeup without foundation, it is also a product that I have struggled to make work due to my oily skin type! Throughout the years of putting various moisturizers, primers, foundations, and powders to the test – I have finally discovered the ultimate hacks to avoid having your foundation crack or separate on the skin.

Is Your Skin Clean?

This may seem like an obvious step in most of your routines, but you may be forgetting how vital it actually is for both your skin health and makeup routine! Cleansing your skin before bed as well as in the morning will help to remove any oils that you have produced throughout the night. If you do not cleanse your skin prior to layering on makeup, those oils will seep through the foundation and separate the makeup quickly. In the morning, before makeup, I have been loving the Fresh Beauty Soy Face Cleanser as well as the SkinMedia AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser for nighttime use.

SkinMedica AHA/BHA Cleanser $55

Fresh Soy Face Cleanser $47

Is Your Skin Hydrated and Moisturized?

Oftentimes, especially those of us with oily skin, we assume that adding moisture and hydration to the skin will produce even more oils, which is not true! When we strip our skin of moisture after cleansing, if we do not add moisture back into the skin, we are actually making our skin produce more oils due to overdrying. To avoid this, moisturizing right after cleansing is ideal to balance the skin! Right before makeup, after cleansing, I love to apply a water/gel cream. I have been loving the Tatcha The Water Cream because it is very lightweight, fast absorbing, and does not leave any film on the skin. My go-to hydrating primer is the new, Farsáli Skintune Blur which is a vitamin C infused primer + serum that blurs and hydrates at the same time.

Farsáli Skintune Blur $67

Tatcha The Water Cream $82

Is Your Foundation The Right Finish for Your Skin Type?

Try to avoid foundations that work against your skin. If you are oily, try using a waterbased foundation. Oily skin types usually believe that they can only use matte foundations; however, using a waterbased foundation will allow you to participate in the natural/dewy skin trend without looking greasy. Two of my favourite waterbased foundations are the Koh Gen Do Aqua Foundation and the Makeup Forever Water Blend Foundation.

Koh Gen Do Aqua Foundation $91

Makeup Forever Water Blend Foundation $54

If you are dry, you definitely do not want to use ultra-matte foundations. Matte foundations tend to cling to your dry patches and can actually dry out your skin even more because they are formulated to limit oil production. If you are looking to achieve a matte finish, try using a natural-satin finish foundation. This will allow your skin to breathe and retain moisture without conveying too much dew and luminosity. For a natural finish foundation, my favourites are the Becca Ultimate Coverage Foundation and the Clinique Beyond Perfecting Foundation + Concealer.

Becca Ultimate Coverage Foundation $53

Clinique Beyond Perfecting Foundation + Concealer $37

How Are You Setting Your Foundation?

With oily skin, I have come to learn that less is more. I always assumed that because I produced so much oil in my t-zone that I needed to pack on layers and layers of powder to stop the oils from seeping through my foundation – which is not correct! I have learned a trick while working on several brides which is to blot the t-zone right after applying foundation, to remove any excess oils, and then set the area with a light (yes I said LIGHT) layer of powder. Setting the area with a light layer of powder: 1) allows the skin to breathe 2) makes touch-ups MUCH simpler as there is no need to add a 100th layer to the 99 other layers of powder beneath 3) helps to avoid the foundation from separating and to prevent yourself from dealing with cakey makeup. My all-time favourite lightweight setting powder is the Dermablend Loose Translucent Setting Powder. I recommend this powder for all skin types and skin tones!

Dermablend Loose Translucent Setting Powder $36

If touch-ups do become necessary throughout the night- a great tip is to lightly blot the area before powdering. If you go ahead and apply powder directly on top of the oils, (as gross as this sounds) you are actually mixing the oils with the foundation and further setting that into place with the powder, which is so counterproductive. Majority of the time, when we blot our oily areas, a powder touch-up isn’t even required. So, remember to always blot first and powder after. The Boscia Black Charcoal Blotting Linens work well to absorb oil without removing makeup and actually help to purify pores!

Boscia Black Charcoal Blotting Linens $14

For dry to normal skin, a lot of the times, loose powders and compact powders can be very thick and heavy which can cause even more clinging to dry patches that will eventually crack on the skin. A solution I have learned is that after the foundation has set – if it feels dry to touch – powder is not always needed. In fact, on my clients with severely dry skin, I oftentimes opt for a drier/tackier concealer which will avoid the need to set the under eyes with powder, OR, I will use a creamy concealer and set the area with a soft, finely milled powder. A great alternative to powder overall is setting spray! For years I have been using the Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray which works to keep the foundation locked in all day while delivering moisture and hydration.

Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray $40

I would love to know what tricks can you not live without when applying your foundation! Let me know down below in the comments!

SB

Let’s connect! Instagram | Twitter | YouTube

  Why is My Foundation Cracking? Foundation is one of the few items in my makeup routine that I have experienced a love-hate relationship with.

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As a girl always on-the-go, finding the time to style my hair every morning or night can be quite the struggle! Apart from time management, caring for your hair is so important for the overall health of your hair. Being someone who has endured a lengthy, problematic relationship with their hair, I can confirm that in order to maintain healthy hair, the use of harsh chemicals and intense heat is definitely something to avoid as much as possible. Blowouts are a great way to improve the quality and strength of your hair as it lasts days to even a full week and requires minimal heat and styling.

You may be wondering why it is even necessary to have your hair professionally styled when you can just wash it at home; however, I cannot stress how great the feeling is to simply run a comb through my hair every morning and have it look like I spent 15-20 minutes to achieve perfect, tousled beachy waves! And let’s not forget – this hair can last you up 5 days or longer! Want to learn the best ways to prolong your blowout? Keep reading!

Protect

Starting from day 1 with freshly blown out hair, it is essential to protect your hair when sleeping! This is one of the most important steps in maintaining your style. The texture of your pillow in conjunction with tossing and turning can actually disrupt the hair and increase the amount of frizz and textured ends. To avoid this, I recommend sleeping with a hair bonnet (these can be found at your local hair or beauty supply). This is a simple yet effective way to maintain your curls or waves without damaging your hair!

Texturize & Smooth

Depending on your hair type, the need to add texture may vary! Personally, this is a step that I start incorporating around day 3-4. A light mist of a texture spray to your roots and midsection of the hair adds a beautiful touch of body and dimension and also helps to redefine any pieces that may be losing volume. Similar to adding texture, whether or not to smooth the hair will be different for everyone. Having naturally frizzy hair, I typically use a smoothing oil or cream towards the root of my hair on a daily basis to ensure it remains sleek and smooth all day.

Refresh

To get the most out of any hairstyle, dry shampoo and dry conditioner need to be a part of your routine! Just like their names suggest, with these dry sprays, you can achieve a similar result to having just freshly washed your hair! Usually, around day 3-5 I will start incorporating a dry shampoo into my routine to freshen up the scent and to diminish the appearance of oils. If my hair is feeling extra dry towards the ends, I will then go in with a dry conditioner to soften the hair and add some luminosity.

What staple techniques do you use when maintaining your favourite hairstyles? Let me know down below in the comments!

SB

Let’s connect! Instagram | Twitter | YouTube

How to Get the Most out of Your Blowout As a girl always on-the-go, finding the time to style my hair every morning or night can be quite the struggle!

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Fall Lip Shades for Every Mood

Fall Lip Shades for Every Mood

VAMPY

Bite Beauty Amuse Bouche Lipstick “Whisky”. Whenever I think of the fall season, apart from Halloween Town on repeat and marshmallow coated popcorn, one of the many things that comes to mind is a sultry, vampy lip! Although I am guilty of wearing nudes 99% of the time, I do love a bold lip once in a while – and fall is the perfect time to experiment!

PUMPKIN SPICE-Y

Smashbox Always On…

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Easy Transitional Glam

Pumpkin spice lattes are now available at Starbucks which means that it’s time to break out my pumpkin chai candles, exchange my open-toe mules for suede booties, and of course, bring back the warm-toned eyeshadows!

The chilly weather this past weekend inspired me to sit down and play with some makeup in hopes of creating something for fall! While the skin is nothing far from my everyday…

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MMVA Red Carpet Recap

MMVA Red Carpet Recap

Whenever award shows take place, while I love applauding the nominees and the award-winning celebs, my absolute favourite moment is scoping out the red carpet and selecting my favourites looks of the night!

Matching separates were definitely a common theme at last night’s event! This year, I noticed a lot of street style inspired wear and let me tell you—I was herefor it! So many of these looks…

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Simple Ways to Style a White Blouse

Simple Ways to Style a White Blouse

Throughout the summer season, one of my favourite wardrobe staples is a white, button-down blouse. Not only is it lightweight and comfortable, it is effortlessly classy and sophisticated! While you can wear a button-down blouse in an endless amount of colours, to me, white is so flattering because it is airy, refined, and perfect for summer!

Bossy in a Blazer

I love incorporating neutral colours…

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Summer Glow Checklist

ELIXIR

Throughout the summer, the humidity tends to dry out my skin which oftentimes leaves me reaching for hydration, moisturizers, and skin plumping products. There are various elixirs on the market that aid in rejuvenating and restoring the skin while providing hydration through anti-aging properties.

SKIN TINT

I think we can all agree that when the sun is beaming and humidity is in the air,…

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Trend Alert: Kitten Heels for Summer

Trend Alert: Kitten Heels for Summer

Kitten heels have been everywhere this season! While the idea of a 2-inch heel seems rather redundant, this style is seemingly on trend for its ability to slightly raise and elongate the leg while having no restraints on one’s motility. Judging from experience—while imparting a business casual approach to my style—when fashion meets function, it truly is an unbeatablecombo. Whether they are…

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Patrick Starrr has done it again. With his mesmerizing makeup skills and fierce psyche, to no surprise, he has slayed another collaboration with MAC Cosmetics—and this time, it delivers nothing but floral realness.

From the colour arrangement to the formula, and even the packaging—this collection is unquestionably stunning for spring and summer. Patrick released two kits within the Floral Realness collection, one being “Me So Chic“ and the other, “Me So Fleek“. I was fortunate enough to get my hands on the “Me So Fleek” kit, and while I seem to say this quite often when it comes to cosmetics, I am absolutely obsessed with this collection.

Although it comes to no surprise that this collection is bold, fierce and on fleek, I decided to create one eye look using all of the shades in the palette and I paired it with two different lip options—one for the neutral fiends and the other for the vibrant enthusiasts.

MAC Cosmetics Lipliner “Soar”

MAC Cosmetics Lipstick “Yash”

Anastasia Beverly Hills Lipgloss “Undressed”

MAC Cosmetics Lipliner “Soar”

MAC Cosmetics Lipstick “Hey Boy Hey!”

MAC Cosmetics Lip Glass “Queen P”

Let me know what you think! Do you prefer the neutral lip or the bold, punchy lip with this summer glam?!

To learn about the techniques I used to achieve this look, as well as my final thoughts on the performance of the products, take a look at the video below! Xx

SB

Let’s connect! Instagram | Twitter | YouTube

Floral Realness: Me So Fleek Patrick Starrr has done it again. With his mesmerizing makeup skills and fierce psyche, to no surprise, he has slayed another collaboration with MAC Cosmetics—and this time, it delivers nothing but…

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Met Gala 2018 Red Carpet

Met Gala 2018 Red Carpet

The Met Gala—further known as the most fashionable evening of the year—transpired last night at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in, New York City. While it is inevitable that the anticipated theme of the gala will have everyone in awe—this year’s theme of fashion-forward Catholicism is one to remember. The evening imparted a platform for celebs to exhibit their most innovative ecclesiastical…

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With the many fads in the beauty industry, the holographic Instagram trend has blown up over the past few weeks, and will undoubtedly be following us into summer. Whether you sport a multidimensional, glossy lid or a duo-chrome highlight—these mystical, gem-inspired shades will ensure that you stand out and stay on trend this season.

Extraterrestrial Eyes 

There is no better way to make your eyes pop than topping off your shadow with a glistening eye gloss. Wear alone for a natural and luminous finish or apply on top of eyeshadow for a wet, high-fashion glossy look.

Kevin Aucoin, The Exotique Diamond Eye Gloss $52.00 CAD

MAC Cosmetics, Studio Eye Gloss $26.00 CAD

Holographic Highlight

Liquids and powders and creams…oh my! While beaming highlights seem to be the holy grail in everyone’s makeup collection, it should come as no surprise that these head-turning, multi-hued products are dominating the world of facial dimension. These highlights can be worn on the cheekbones, mixed in with foundation, or even applied to the eyelids and lips! Essentially, there are no boundaries with these futuristic glow products.

Too Faced, Diamond Light Multi-Use Highlighter $42.00 CAD

COVER FX, Custom Enhancer Drops $52.00 CAD

Galactic Gloss

When “holographic” is used in terms of our beauty routines, it can seem rather daring. However, completing your look with a high shine, duo-chrome lip topper may actually be the final touch needed to take your look from ordinary to extraordinary. With the endless options of undertones, glitters, and metallics, there is a perfect holographic lippie for everyone!

Kevin Aucoin, Molten Liquid Lipstick $39.00 CAD

Tarte Cosmetics, Holographic Lip Paint $25.00 CAD

SB

Let’s connect! Instagram | Twitter | YouTube

Holographic Craze With the many fads in the beauty industry, the holographic Instagram trend has blown up over the past few weeks, and will undoubtedly be following us into summer.

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Although there may still be a thin layer of frost on my windshield each morning-I refuse to allow these chilly winds to triumph my springtime rituals-especially when it comes to my beauty routine! Regardless of the crisp air outside, spring is officially here and I am so thrilled to be sharing my current favourite beauty products for the season.

Subtle and Stunning

The catwalk trends this spring have been minimal yet impacting. From glossy lids to feathered brows, these natural and effortless looks are everything but boring.

Bella Hadid sporting a fresh complexion with a punchy red lip

Clean complexion with a flush of colour on the lips and cheeks for Vicky Zhang runway model

Stunning hued lips and subtle skin on Cynthia Rowley runway model

Tom Ford runway model displaying beautiful, radiant skin

One of my spring staple products that you will find in both my personal collection and my professional kit is MAC Cosmetics Strobe Cream. This ultra lightweight formula has pearl reflecting particles which adds a beautiful, natural glow to the skin. Whether it is worn alone or mixed into foundation, this cream will provide ultimate luminosity and radiance.

Pro tip: if you are heading to an event and your legs, shoulders or decolletage are exposed, apply this to the high points of those areas for a sexy glow. 

Having fair skin was often a challenge for myself when it came to the cosmetic industry-up until I discovered my holy grail–Chanel’s Tan De Soleil. This cream bronzer is perfect for daily wear-and skill factor is not a concern as it blends perfectly over bare skin or foundation. I love adding this to the perimeter of my face to achieve a sun-kissed, bronzed finish.

Beaming from Within

While 2017 may have been the year for the disco ball, mirror in the sunlight type of highlight, the runway trend of a fresh and radiant glow is a trend that I am living for! Now don’t get me wrong-I still love a beaming highlight every now and then; however, this spring I am all about the healthy glow.

My favourite way to apply my highlighter for a natural glow is to mist my brush with a facial spray and then sweep the product across the area without lifting the brush. This technique will press and melt the product into the skin, giving it a skin-like finish.

Rose Kisses

This season, hued tones are set to be everywhere in the beauty world. These backstage trends have inspired me to experiment with various colours and finishes of lipsticks, and after doing so, I can see why this trend will be here for a while! As I  have spent some time searching for the perfect muted rosy, nude-I have mastered my everyday lip combination for spring!

First, I apply MAC Cosmetics “Faux” lipstick (a gorgeous mauve tone), then I top it off with Laura Mercier’s “Bare Baby” lipgloss which is the most stunning high-shine baby pink you’ve ever seen! These shades paired together are perfect for the office or school because they are subtle enough to pair with anything you wear, yet the beautiful rose hue still allows you to participate in the trend.

Come chat in the comments below and let me know some of your must-have products for spring and what beauty trends you have been loving this season!

Talk soon, Xx

SB

Let’s connect! Instagram | Twitter | YouTube

Simple, Spring Makeup Although there may still be a thin layer of frost on my windshield each morning-I refuse to allow these chilly winds to triumph my springtime rituals-especially when it comes to my beauty routine!

[glambysam]

Do you ever feel trapped in your unwillingness to break out of your comfort zone?

After having worn my hair in the same two hairstyles for the past six months, I knew that I was in need of a new-year hair upgrade. When I met with my hairdresser, I decided to surpass the periodical trim and deep condition and transform my one-length, question mark of a hairstyle, into a blunt, asymmetrical bob. I knew that this hairstyle was a major jump from what I was previously sporting—but I was willing to take the risk.

When I saw how much hair I had lost on the floor around me throughout the appointment, I began to silently panic, questioning if I just made a terrible decision, (shout out to my anti-anxiety breathing techniques for keeping me calm and to trust in my stylist). When the look was revealed, I saw that I had lost about five inches of hair, but I gained about six wrinkles around my eyes from smiling so big. Needless to say, I was blown away by the results.

Being someone who does not colour their hair, I rely solely on the cut and style to deliver the chicness I desire in my appearance, and this look delivers exactly that.

Bobs are extremely on trend at the moment which is another force that was pushing me towards my hairdresser’s chair.

Jennifer Lawrence

Khloe Kardashian

Rihanna

Kim Kardashian

Nicole Richie

Sarah Jessica Parker

I love the versatility of a bob because there are so many ways to style it. You can wear it straight to flaunt the sleekness and edginess of the cut, or you can add some beach waves, finished with a texture spray to create an effortless, voluminous do. And even on the lazy days, a low pony tail or half, top-knot bun is always stylish. #LazyGirlProbs

How do you feel about the bob hair trend for 2018? Let me know in the comments!!

Talk soon, Xx

SB

Let’s connect! Instagram | Twitter | YouTube

Hairstylist’s IG: www.instagram.com/sarmad.23

Short Hair, Don’t Care Do you ever feel trapped in your unwillingness to break out of your comfort zone? After having worn my hair in the same two hairstyles for the past six months, I…

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Valentine’s day is the day of love, romance and (in my world), fashion. Whether you plan to host a GALentine’s Day with the girls or to celebrate with your BAE, a V-Day ready outfit is always necessary. I have partnered with Zaful  to piece together some trendy items and show you all some Valentine’s Day inspired looks! Zaful is hosting an amazing Valentine’s Day sale, and I was able to score a coupon code, which will prompt some major savings for you all! Make sure to use the CODE: love at checkout to access the Valentine’s Day deals!

TIMELESS IN BLUSH PINK

I absolutely love playing up the colour pink—especially on Valentine’s Day! This outfit is perfect for a dinner date with your significant other. While still showing some skin, you can maintain a sexy vibe while remaining classy and chic with the button down dress, nude pumps and tweed crossbody.

Pointed Toe Transparent Plastic Pumps

Chain Twist Lock Crossbody Bag – Beige

Belted Plain High Low Dress

SLIP INTO SOMETHING RED

Nothing says Valentine’s Day quite like the colour red. Don’t be afraid to show some skin on your girls night out or even on your date night; you can always mix and match with a statement jacket. 

hinestones Embossing Magnetic Closure Evening Bag

Stiletto Heel Solid Color Sandals

Belted Plain High Low Dress

RED LEATHER

Make a statement with a pair of red pumps and a corresponding clutch to finish off a simple outfit.  Top it off with a bold, matte red lip for an extra wow.

Off The Shoulder Lantern Sleeve Pullover Sweater

Minimalist Office Stiletto Heel Pumps

Cut Out Woven Clutch Bag

Houndstooth Tapered Trousers

I hope you ladies were inspired by these looks for your Valentine’s Day festivities. Come chat in the comments and share your V-Day plans and what you plan to wear!

Talk soon, Xx

SB

Let’s connect! Instagram | Twitter | YouTube

Be Mine? Zaful Valentine’s Day Sale Valentine's day is the day of love, romance and (in my world), fashion. Whether you plan to host a GALentine's Day with the girls or to celebrate with your BAE, a…

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Winged Liner...With No Liner?!

Winged Liner…With No Liner?!

Winged eyeliner is an artistry that every makeup enthusiast has struggled to achieve. You must create that flawless, smooth line, finishing off with a fierce flick, while achieving the perfect amount of thickness, and of course…the most essential and agonizing process… both eyes must match. Whether you are using a gel, a liquid, an eye kohl a stencil or even a SHARPIE, winged liner can be quite…

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Gold & Smokey

Did someone say glitter?!

Whenever the new year approaches, it provides us with the opportunity to step outside of our comfort zones and rock something bold! Whether it be through our makeup, clothing, hair style or accessories, it is always great to try new things—it is what expands our styles! Personally, when it comes to my makeup, I live in the world of subtle, warm smokey eyes and nude matte…

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