The Ultimate Debate of the Makeup Brush

The Sephora Collection Prestige Brush Set
(offers a combination of Synthetic and Natural brushes)

As all of you makeup junkies know, brushes play a vital role in your every day makeup application. I, for one, am completely dysfunctional without my brushes, as they deliver an even and smooth application. When I was younger I tried to resist using a foundation brush, as my notion was that it was unnecessary as I could just use my hands. I can now admit that I was completely wrong! Brushes do more than people think they do, and they also have a tremendous affect on the end-result of your makeup application.

Now, I find that many individuals who go brush shopping are completely clueless when it comes to knowing their options. What is natural? What is synthetic? Which one is better? Well, worry no more, as I am going to give you a brief breakdown of what you should be looking for.

Let’s start by discussing what a natural brush is. These brushes are most commonly made of various types of animal hair, such as pony, goat (or capra), squirrel (very soft), and badger (firm). If you are an animal lover, this is probably not the best option for you. With that being said, there are many negative aspects which relate to the production of the brush, obvious ones for that matter. I was reading an article on PETA.org entitled “Is there a Squirrel in your Makeup Bag” and I came across some rather striking points. The one which caught my attention was this, “Every year, millions of animals are trapped, drowned, and beaten to death in the wild and strangled, electrocuted, or beaten and skinned alive on fur farms. Horse hair is commonly obtained from horses who are slaughtered for their flesh. Squirrels are hunted or trapped, and goats are shorn like sheep. Workers are often paid by volume, so they shear the goats quickly, which can result in serious injuries.” The article also made the point that when it comes to production, the following actions most commonly occur in developing countries who have little or no restriction on animal welfare regulations. It’s rather sad if you think about it. This con is surely a great one. But with every negative there is a positive, and although these brushes are created in what one may call an unethical way, they will literally last you a lifetime. Yes, they are more costly that synthetic brushes, which we will discuss in a minute, however they do offer you durability. If you have little concern regarding the way in which this product is made, then this is surely an investment worth making, especially if you plan on being a makeup artist. Even if you constantly wear makeup and want the best brushes to enhance your application process and give you durability, this is the option for you. 

Now, let’s look into what a synthetic brush is. Synthetic is most simply referred to as a product that is man-made, as in the case of makeup brushes you would find filaments such as nylon and taklon used. They do at times undergo the process of dying and baking to alter their texture. For anyone that supports the efforts of PETA, this is your best suited option as no animals are harmed in the production of these brushes. There are three main advantages of these types of brushes, and they are as follows:

1. They are less likely to result in damage from makeup and solvents
2. They are far easier to keep clean, as the filaments do not absorb pigment
3. They are far most cost efficient 

If you are on the fence about which option is better, a simple solution is to purchase a brush set that is a combination of both. Sephora, I feel, has done a good job when it comes to offering a mixture of brushes as they have selected the texture which offers the best application per brush (natural works better for certain areas of application than synthetic and vise versa).  

So with all of these factors being considered, which option do you prefer? 

Sources

http://www.peta.org/living/beauty-and-personal-care/synthetic-make-up-brushes.aspx

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The Rundown on Pedicures

Since everyone will be wearing open-toed sandals soon, here's the full scoop on what we should all look out for when going to get pedicures, as well as my top toenail colours for summer.
There are too many chop shops out there and we need to be aware of these kinds of places and avoid them when getting pedi's and mani's. These places do not take the time to properly sanitize their utensils and often do not have all the required training to administer these services adequately.

Things to watch out for:

• if the nail technician washes her hands and sanitizes them before performing a pedicure.
• if all required essentials are being used
• nail clippers
• cuticle oil
• nail file 
• skin file
• foot soak
• exfoliating scrub
• toe separators
• sanitizer foot spray
• these items should not be used on more than one person before being cleaned.
• if there is a form anti-bacterial procedure for all tools and sinks such as a sanitizer or
• if you see any soiled towels around the area you are being serviced
• if they use whirlpool chairs, try to avoid them. 
• These hold a high risk of causing fungus as the tubs take 20 minutes for sanitation, and are rarely properly cleaned
• If you see a nail tech giving a pedicure to a woman with any visible form of disease, fungus or warts on her feet, avoid that salon. 
• These procedures should never be done on infected feet as it can spread diseases to others.

what your foot can look like if you aren't careful

So make sure you do some research when choosing a salon to visit. Nothing is more important than your health.

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The Face of Dior

Marion Cotillard joins the line of actresses campaigning as the face of Dior with Mila Kunis and Charlize Theron.

Next month, she will be featured in the new ad campaign for Dior, where she will be promoting the latest collection of bags for Lady Dior. In the recently released ads, Cotillard looks amazing (post-baby, btw!) in a cream, plunging V-neck dress and holding a crocodile skin bag.

I think she will be a wonderful global brand ambassador for the fashion house. She's elegant, yet still able to be sexy. She's definitely versatile, and able to carry the different collections Lady Dior will come out with in the future. It's a collaboration that benefits everyone!

Dior certainly has obviously made good choices in who will represent the brand. The other faces of Dior include Mila Kunis (another favourite of mine) for the Dior clothing, and Charlize Theron for the J'Adore perfume ads I'm sure we all know.

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Fashion and Campaigning, A Perfect Mix.

Richard Blanch for Runway to Win

What a better way to stand out from your opponents than by going bold, and by bold I mean nail polish!  Obama has taken his campaign to a whole new level, as he dares to go where no politician has gone before. 

As you all know, Anna Wintour headed an initiative to support Obama and his campaign, entitled “Runway to Win.” Items ranging from accessories to clothing were made by some of today’s top designers, such as Derek Lam, Diane von Furstenburg, and Marc Jacobs. Being a fashion lover, this entire collection is so beautiful to me, as it shows how this president was able to identify with an industry that is dear to my heart. His ability to do this surely comes from the fashion-forward First Lady Michelle Obama, who might I add is greatly influencing current day fashions. Think back, when was the last time you’ve seen designers come together to support a president? 

Obama nail polishes are next on the agenda for the “Runway to Win” initiative. You can now take your political views to your nails with this American inspired nail palette created by Richard Blanch (red, white and blue of course). Not only do you get 3 beautifully designed nail polishes, but you also get a collectible makeup bag. All of that for $40? You really can't go wrong. 

With these products being made in the USA, I think this is an appropriate way to show your support while also gaining something for yourself. This entire effort is the perfect way to reach out a younger, fashionable demographic. Sometimes these supporters get lost in the political mix, but as we’ve seen since Obama has come onto the scene, these people have been active in not only voting but also in supporting him. 

Whichever part of the world you live in, you can still reach out and show forth your appreciation and support to someone that is making a positive change in the world. This campaign is the perfect blend of politics and fashion, and I absolutely love the idea. 

All of the “Runway to Win” products can be found at the website listed below.

http://store.barackobama.com/collections/runway-to-win.html

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The Future of Fashion

I am very excited, as I'm sure many of you are by now, about The Hunger Games movie coming out in just about a week from today. Before it was in production I kept hoping someone would make a Hunger Games movie because the books are phenomenal. I felt the same when I read Twilight like 4 years ago and the movies regrettably didn't go so well, but I still have high hopes for this film. Books that depict a dystopian future have always fascinated me in the sense that they perfectly illustrate the author's imagination of what our society may shape into.

Effie Trinket (left) Katniss Everdeen (right)

Many films and pieces of literature greatly influence the future in terms of interests, lifestyle, and commodities within the beauty and fashion industry. Don't believe me? Consider the Twilight phenomenon. Stephanie Meyer had a vision about vampires and romance, which later turned into a vampire craze influencing television, art, consumer behavior, fashion, and the beauty industry. You couldn't deny the power of the vampy lipsticks, pale skin, and dark smokey eyes that flooded the runway, red carpet, and cosmetic stores. Still not convinced?  Let's look further back at such influential films as Titanic (blowing out the empire waist dress that Kate Winslet wore) Flashdance, (don't tell me you didn't wear leg warmers after that) Annie Hall's androgynous look, Blade Runner, Atonement... there are too many to name. While all these movies caused fashion to take a turn to the revival of retro and vintage fashions, The Hunger Games may very well have the power to turn fashion toward the far future, to a innovation we may not even be ready for. I truly believe that this movie will create a breakthrough in fashion and release styles and looks that are completely ahead of our time.

When I read The Hunger Games trilogy, I was nothing short of impressed with the imagination that Suzanne Collins had when writing her novels. One thing that really stuck out to me, was her vision of where fashion is heading in the far future. In this novel, the world is in ruins and what would be North America (now called Panem), there remains 13 districts and a Capitol (the only developed society where there is no poverty, only consumers). The main character, Katniss Everdeen, meets Capital dwellers and is appalled by the way they look and dress. I won't give too much away about the books, if you haven't read them, but you see a little bit of what I am talking about in the trailer. The announcer (Effie Trinket, played by Elizabeth Banks) is from the Capitol and has a vibrant alien look about her, completely drenched in fuchsia.

My favorite look in the novels, would be that of Octavia, one of the stylists that groom Katniss. Her skin has been dyed a green colour and has been embedded with jewels. This, along with oddly coloured lipsticks, nail colours and hair colours seem to be the norm in the Capitol and could very well be the new frontier in our reality. We've already seen some innovative styles in our time from Lady Gaga, and Alexander McQueen to Katy Perry's blue hair, and other celebrities styles. Will The Hunger Games provide the fuel to further advance our conception of beauty in such a way that will make Kesha's blue lips become the norm? I believe it is just around the corner and I am personally prepared to embrace it. Women have always gone to great lengths to achieve the society's standards of beauty. Maybe one day we will be permanently dying our skin to our favorite colour. Who knows? Just make sure to read the books and go watch the first Hunger Games, coming to theaters March 23rd. And may the odds be ever in your favor.

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Michael Kors Gives Back

I am in love with all things Michael Kors.

This is why I was really excited to hear about his collaboration with a close family friend to create The Breast Cancer Research Foundation Bracelet. The bracelet is a leather band with a ribbon design in gold or silver hardware, and comes in black, yellow, and pink. It's $20, and all proceeds go to Breast Cancer Research.

I love the simplicity of the bracelet, and how MK has managed to combine style and class with a good cause. I can't wait to get my own!

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Fashionably Functional

Incase Birds Nest Snap Case. Also available in red

If you’re an organized, neat freak like I am then you may find this post of some importance. Typically, I like to see everything matched, from my clothing to my car. If something has no correlation it automatically irritates me. I guess it’s safe to say that this is my weak point; yes I admitted it. Now, an issue that I constantly have is phone cases. The reason I have a difficult time with this is very simple, I want it to match my background image not sometimes but at ALL times. Now, being a person that constantly changes my mind, I tend to change my background at least once every week.  This is where the problem comes in regarding my case. I get so tired of seeing the same image every time I look at my phone, plus I like to keep everything current and on trend. Does anyone else do this? It's hard to keep all things in correlation, but no need to worry anymore, as a solution has been found! 

I made it my mission to find a case that can accommodate my every background need while still remaining unique. I have never been much of a fan of the single coloured cases, as they are too mainstream and do not fit my outgoing, dare to be different personality. This reason is why I strive to find a case that is somewhat different. Being a devoted apple user, I constantly check their website (this is actually part of my daily routine, sad I know). I came across the most adorable phone case, available in a variety of different colours.  Now, what I love about these cases is that it offers a unique appearance while also being versatile. What I mean when I say versatile is that it can match with virtually any background, awesome I know! Like if those attributes aren't already enough to convince you to buy, it also offers exceptional protection for your phone. Let's just say it's pretty much a win-win situation for anyone who likes functionality and uniqueness. 

These cases can be purchased through apple.com/ca (apple.com for all of my Americans). It is budget friendly, being sold at only $34.95. For the functionality of this product, and its sleek, trendy design this price is really a steal! Don’t wait, this product is the perfect incorporation of versatility and style and is definitely a must have.

*I do not own any of these images

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My Fave Spring Nails

On the runway right now we are seeing a lot of nude nails and soft greys and whites. That is always lovely but all the excitement is where the colour comes in! So here are some ideas (from my favorite colours) for you to consider when you go get your nails done, or when you are standing clueless in Shoppers Drug Mart trying to pick out a colour to add to your collection.

Lollipop

Yellow, It's Me

Mint Candy Apple

Electric Orange

Feelin' Hot-Hot-Hot

I Have a Herring Problem

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Yay or Nay?

 

Amidst the balloon trees and flowers, there are models walking in Guy Fawkes mask, reminiscent of the V for Vendetta movie Natalie Portman shaved her head for.

This was Adrian Wu's collection for Toronto Fashion Week.

At first, I have to admit how horrified I was when I saw the masks with the dresses. Everything just felt so disconnected with one another. Wu explains his inspirations, one being the difference between European and North American politics, as well as movies such as Amélie, and of course, V for Vendetta.

It's a very odd collection, but I'm starting to love it. I mean, I can't deny the fact that Adrian Wu is good at what he does. His craftsmanship is good, and he will definitely be going places. It's hard to understand where he draws his inspirations from, but I think he will only get better as time goes on.

He's definitely one to watch out for. Who knows, one day his dream of working for Dior may come true.

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Marni for H&M, the Brand, Collaboration and Creative Genius

As all of my fellow fashionista’s know, Marni for H&M hit 260 stores worldwide yesterday, with items being sold out in about an hour. If that isn’t crazy I don’t know what is. Now we’re all left to wonder, what is it about this collection that had people head over heels?  Well to begin, lets get a little insight to not only the brand but also the creative genius behind it.

Consuelo Castiglioni founded this prestigious label in 1994, but here’s the remarkable part, she had absolutely no training in fashion! This woman isn’t your typical fashionista, yet because she has a strong vision, she created a company that has grown to be one of the most prominent labels in the fashion industry. I can’t help but consider her to be a truly inspirational woman. The beauty of it all is that it is a family effort, with her husband Gianni Castiglioni as the CEO and her daughter Carolina as the individual who runs the online store.

Now, let’s talk about the collection! The first point to note is that is truly captured the essence of Marni, as the majority of the pieces incorporated their signature prints and fabrics. They showed forth their ability to mix prints, and do it quite exceptionally.  Typically, when consumers try to convert mixed prints from the runway to real life they struggle. With Marni for H&M, you no longer need to do so as they have created the perfect balance of this in a way that consumers can easily understand it. No rocket science needed here! I particularly loved the incorporation of various textures and colours in the pieces, especially the tops. Perfection is the only word to describe it. They stuck to classic shapes and structures, which I feel is the best way to do when you want to play up the designs.

From my perspective, I’ve seen a lot of bold prints, which translate much of the collection into an African-inspired one. We see geometric shapes everywhere, but for some reason the Marni for H&M collection has added somewhat of a unique flare to the use of their prints. The mixture of colour is so relevant, as colour-blocking is such a big hype for the season. You don’t typically see a blend of textured clothing, and for this reason I fell in love with many of their pieces. They didn’t only focus on the outside of the clothing, as the interior was lined with such beautiful prints. I always love when a designer is so thorough with their creations, making even the unseen parts beautiful. Pleats are a slight obsession of mine, as they can be played up or down so easily. Marni for H&M had some of the most beautiful pleated skirts I’ve seen in while, it was actually quite refreshing. The silky smooth dresses added such an elegant flare to the collection.

Now let's talk accessories. Spikes usually appear harsh, but for some reason they did not translate that way in this collection. They are such perfect statement pieces, and I am absolutely in love with them! Although the scarves and bags were beautiful, as they used the same prints in the clothing, this one accessory stole the spotlight for me.

Call me crazy, but I would say this collection is far better than the one Versace did for H&M a few months ago. It is clear that these items were designed with the consumer in mind. Marni has delivered, carefully considering every element of every piece they have put into H&M stores. They perfected the art of mixing prints, textures and colours and used leather in a way that made it relevant for the warm season. I think this collection has most definitely appealed to a large demographic, as my mom fell in love with the long silk dress with a cross of two very different tribal prints. If there was a collection that I would line up for hours in the cold, it would be this one. Such perfect execution by such an amazing label. 

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Serious Citrus Spring Scheme

If you are like me, then you have trouble shopping for essential wardrobe pieces for each season. If you are like me, you end up buying tons of random stuff throughout the season, and then never ended up with the stuff you wanted. The key is to pick out a trend that you love, and commit to a few pieces that work with that trend so you aren't overbuying. For this trend post, we are going to focus on the biggest colour explosion you are going to see ever. I mean it. It's going to be huge. I'm talking about citrus colours, or basically any shade that any breed of citrus fruit, can procreate. Think of tangerine, valencia, mandarin, grapefruit,  blood orange, lime, lemon, kumquat (hehehe) pomelo, etc. yummy, and fabulous.

Joe Fresh

So here is some examples of your citrus kit essentials:

H&M

American Eagle

These fabulous pants can be paired with either rich blue, or pink pieces for awesome colour blocking (see Tiffany's post on colour blocking for instructions), or with muted nude accents like how Christian Siriano did it on the runway.  A white or muted nude blouse would also compliment these pants well. Remember, it's all about brights! If you aren't courageous enough to wear coloured pants, you can always accent your regular wardrobe with these sexy citrus shoes.

 These sexy, citrus shoes go with virtually anything. You can throw neutrals on them, or other bright colours. These shoes can be purchased at Aldo, Spring, Payless, or for high end you can visit Browns for the designer variety. For those of you who don't wear heels, Aldo has lots of beautiful flats in lemon, pink, and other organic colours. And lastly, but absolutely not least, You are going to need a bag. If you will not follow through with wearing orange pants or orange shoes, YOU NEED AN ORANGE BAG. So many celebrities like Katie Holmes, Miley Cyrus and Eva Longoria have been shot carrying around an orange bag.

These chunky handbags are sure to capture attention and it doesn't matter what you wear it with

 

Don't forget: with great colour comes great accessories. So if you are unsure about what to buy for spring, pick at least two of the items above and add them to the "to buy" list. For other hot spring/summer trends, check out Tiffany G's post on animal prints. 

Happy Shopping!

Vanessa

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Another Must Have from the Makeup Kit: The Nars Multiple

I love Nars. Okay I said it.
I am a part of their Artistry team in Canada, but I am not biased. I have been in love with the brand for over 12 years, ever since I walked into Holt Renfrew on Bloor Street when I was a high school student, and purchased my first palette of eye, lip and cheek colors.

Over my years in the beauty industry, I have worked with and for many, many brands, and at all of the top cosmetics retailers in Canada. I have had opportunities to play and paint faces using every mass and luxury brand sold in Canada, yet it always goes back to Nars.

If my piece on Exhibit A blush didn't make you a believer, this one will. I want to introduce to you Francois Nars most innovated product to date, and I urge you to try it. This product is untouchable because it is versatile, yet simple. For eons women have been using lipstick on the cheek to create a flush colour, Nars didn't invent that, okay I know this. Cream blushes and eye shadows have been on the market for some time, however the Multiple by Nars is a genius and innovative product that you can use on eyes, lips and cheeks, or even as a bronzer, to create a beautiful glow or great definition in a flash.

This products sheer, and natural finish leaves the perfect hint of luminosity on the skin, it comes in 14 shades, and they are always adding additions to the franchise so you can find one-or several shades to work with your complexion. The soft glistening pearl with sheer silver pearl Copacabana shade was a part of Sarah Jessica Parker's makeup wardrobe on the cult classic Sex and the City, and along with the iridescent pink of Luxor, is my favourite highlight product to use on the cheek bone when working on Fair and Oriental complexions. For medium skin tones, I love Lamu, Malibu and South Beach. Palm Beach gives darker complexions an excellent sun kissed glow. Portofino gives a beautiful warm glow to all shades of skin.

Use your fingers to apply and blend into your skin, and your skin will radiate a natural light. As mentioned all 14 shades can be used on the eyes, cheeks and lips. I recommend using the sticks to accent, highlight and contour, applying them underneath your foundation. The colours are mistake-proof as they are so easy to blend and correct, they are also super sheer with a buildable coverage.

FYI: This product also contains vitamin E and acai oil to give you an extra antioxidant benefit.
Retail price is $46 but this stick will last forever

Please visit www.narscosmetics.ca for a full range of colours and to find out where to purchase.

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What is Beauty?

How do you define beauty?

We all know beauty when we see it, but when we try to define it, our concepts seem to vanish into thin air. Beauty in 2012 is almost impossible to define, no longer is it believed that beauty is only blessed upon the lucky few, those from a certain race, ethnicity, or age group. The standard of beauty is changing, in an amazing way.
Today, beauty is undefinable and obtainable for every woman. It is found in every skin colour, hair type, age, and exotic ethnicity. Beauty holds a certain allure, charm, and of course power within. It is all about individuality now, not conforming to social standards. We are encouraged to enhance and appreciate ourselves, instead of altering or changing our appearance to fit in with social standards.

A modern beauty cannot be defined by anatomically perfect proportions, perfect measuring, or certain colouring. There isn't just one look to strive for, or one icon to emulate.
What's your definition of beauty? Is it centered around your physical characteristics? The way you wear hair or makeup? Maybe it's deeper than that for you, perhaps you define beauty as something that dwells within. Working in the fashion and beauty industries, we see that there are still many insecurities, fears and social barriers that are preventing women from celebrating what is unique about themselves.

We are on a mission to challenge the way women see beauty in themselves. Let go of insecurities, stand tall in front of the mirror, own your beauty. Confidence is key, and celebrating your individual beauty is freeing.

Beauty should be about pleasure, not pain. It is about expressing your individuality and taking time to discover yourself.If you are not achieving pleasure and enjoying yourself, then you are simply missing out on the full benefits of what beauty can do for you. No matter how perfect the make-up, how toned the body, or how stylish the look, if you are not having fun anymore, then it is time for a change.

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Spring into Safari

For all of you animal print lovers, be prepared for a print indulgence this season. In his Spring 2012 Ad Campaign, Michael Kors so perfectly integrates a wild safari theme with warm hues. As I stumbled upon these images I felt the warmth of summer almost immediately. Neutral tones, as displayed in this campaign, are classy and in style all year round, so this season don’t be hesitant to incorporate a few of these into your outfits. They offer great balance and pair exceptionally well with denim. 

 

I particularly love the use of tribal accessories, as they can play up just about any look. If you’re an individual that tends to stray away from prints, try incorporating them in small portions. Keep in mind, accessories are the perfect tester to see your compatibility with prints! For the woman who keeps her wardrobe very basic, a simple yet sophisticated way to interpret this trend would be to pair a cheetah print accessory (bracelet, necklace, bag, or even shoes) with khaki shorts and crisp white shirt. A key point to remember is that simplicity always works! This combination can work for a rather wide age demographic. It’s versatile and looks perfectly balanced. 

If you love animal prints like I do, go all out. Don’t be scared to mix and match. A word of advice I would give is that if you do choose to mix and match, pay close attention to the size of your prints. Do not, I repeat DO NOT, use two types of large prints in one outfit. It will be too overpowering and you will get lost in it. When mix and matching, if you choose to wear a zebra print pant and want to incorporate a bit of cheetah, try a bracelet that has the print but very fine. The most basic way to complete this pairing is to accompany it with a black tank top. Not every aspect of your outfit has to be elaborate, as a balanced look is always best.

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OPI New York City Balllet Collection

So remember that crazy, freaky Natalie Portman movie where she wants to be the best ballet dancer and she goes nuts and it's all dark and messed up and fabulous? Well as always, movies inspire new beauty trends and this is no different. Last year for halloween I saw at least 10 girls at one party trying to be the black swan. And now OPI is partnering up with the New York Ballet company and launching a ballet collection this spring. Last year we started seeing some greys mixed with other colours and a lot of metallic shades. This year, fashion has shifted to very soft tones and pastels which is what you'll see with the OPI shades. I absolutely love the soft greys and that, along with the soft pinks are gonna be huge this spring. They are playful and flirty and feminine and are great for really anything. With funky shades like You Callin' Me a Lyre?, Don't Touch My Tutu, and Pirouette My Whistle, you can dress it up, wear it at the office, or wear it casually. I love it :)

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Kandi Apple Shellac Tutorial

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Kandi Apple Tutorial on single fake eyelashes

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