Bobbi Brown

May 20, 2013

Bobbi Brown Talks Collaboration with Katie Holmes, Holiday Gift Ideas, & Spreading the “Pretty Powerful” Message

Bobbi Brown visits Miami’s Dadeland Mall (c) Derek Gil

Growing up in the ’80s and ’90s was tough if you were a girl. Make-up had not evolved into this cornucopia of products available today for people of all shades and skin types. One of the pioneers that helped make such a thing become a reality, was make-up artist Bobbi Brown.

As a life-long fan of Brown’s, you can imagine how excited I was to interview during her visit to Miami’s Dadeland Mall in support of her new book Pretty Powerful, in stores now. This book is quite different to her past books because it’s not about technique but about inspiring women with messages from some “Pretty Powerful” women. “pretty Powerful” focuses on how you feel instead of how you look.

Here are some excerpts from my interview:

As a longtime fan of the Bobbi Brown brand, I’m very excited to be meeting you today and learning about your latest book. Tell me what we will find in the pages of “Pretty Powerful.”

“The book is called “Pretty Powerful” but I really wanted it to be called, “Pretty Powerful Beauty Stories” because that’s what it is. Every woman has a story, and [this book] is a collection of inspirational stories. For me just spreading the message is because I really believe the better I take care of myself, the better I feel. I see a very equal playing field that all women are the same, no matter who you are. I wish I knew what I know now when I was younger, but I know it now.”

One of my favorite actresses has been hired to be Bobbi Brown’s first celebrity spokesperson. Could you tell me why you decided to collaborate with Katie Holmes and when can we expect to see her ads.

“I never set out to hire a celebrity. It’s not like we sat down and said, whose available? We are not a brand that really promotes celebrity. But I had met her through friends when she just came to New York and I liked her instantly.

Since I do fashion shows, I asked her if I could do her show [during New York Fashion Week S/S 2013] and she was so thrilled. I was looking at her, and I don’t think she had very much make-up or any at all, and I asked her if she would ever consider doing a collaboration and it happened. I’m really proud of the choice because she is amazing! She really is as unassuming and as nice as you can imagine. She is normal and she’s working really hard trying different things.

The ads will be breaking in January, and we’re still figuring it all out. She will probably be in 3 or 4 different things and then in the fall we worked on a Katie/Bobbi palette which you can imagine will be the perfect palette for brunettes!”

Click here to learn more about my Adrianna Papell dress and for more fashion and beauty!

As a native Miami girl, I was so happy to see you dedicate an entire collection to my city! What inspired you to create the line?

Miami is my city too because growing up in Chicago, we were snow birds and traveled a lot to Miami during spring break and winter break. It’s my favorite place, I love walking around the boardwalk by the water. Yesterday, I walked and ran to my music for an hour and a half. So here I am in Florida, listening to Flo Rida! I just love Miami!

I love the trees, I love the breeze, I love the water and I love the feel of it. It’s my favorite city.

The holidays are coming up and people might be wondering what to get the special lady in their life. What Bobbi Brown products do you suggest they pick up?

They should probably run now and get their wives the Caviar and Oyster Palette. How about they buy a pair of pearl earrings and some caviar to give to them with caviar and oyster palette?

After our interview with Bobbi, I chatted up Bobbi Brown’s Global Artist Rogelio Reyna who gives us insight on the “Pretty Powerful” collection.

Photo Cred: Derek Gil

Step-By-Step: Re-create Catherine Middleton’s Brows by Bobbi Brown

Ever since Prince William announced his engagement to Kate Middleton, the brunette beauty became the most watched woman in the world! Women from across the globe watched was she wore, how her make-up was applied, what products she uses– and it hasn’t slowed down since!

Topping the news today is Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and her fabulous eye brows. How does she get them looking so sharp? British publication, The Daily Mail claims a make-up artist at the Bobbi Brown counter in London taught the 30-year-old how to to create the impression of thicker, darker brows with eye shadow.

So for any of my ladies out there looking to take part in one of the hottest trends of the season, keep reading! As much as you might love Catherine’s brows, don’t run out just yet to purchase the “Saddle” color she uses! Use the following guide when choosing a shade.

Color Guide: The color choices should be matte powders

Blonde- wheat, cement, grey
Grey/Silver- cement, grey, slate
Red/Auburn-blonde, taupe, sable or Rich Brown
Brunette-Blonde or Sable
Black/Dark Brown-Mahogany, Rich Brown, Smoke or Saddle

Once you’ve chosen the shade that works for you, these are the steps you should follow in order to achieve brows like The Duchess.

Technique:
1. Use a mascara wand brush (or get a disposable mascara wand at a makeup counter) to brush up brows. This makes it easier to see where you need to fill in the brow and where hairs need to be removed.
2. Start where you need the color the most.
3. Lightly stroke along the length of the brow.
4. Use light, feathery strokes.
5. Fill in color along the upper edge of the brow. Continue all the way up the arch turning the brush as in goes down.
6. Square the front of the brow and to make sure the brow is long enough, use a mascara wand or brush to measure a line from the outer corner of the eye to the end of the brow tail.

If you have any worries about either finding the perfect shade or how to perfect the above technique, you can visit any Bobbi Brown counter where they offer make-up lessons. They have a 20-minute one specific to brows, aptly named “Everything Brows”. While we can’t confirm this is the exact class given to Kate across the pond, I am certain you will be on your way to fabulous brows by the time you are done!

The video below also has some great tips from Bobbi Brown herself. One thing you should always remember is that make-up washes off and you should just have some fun with it!

Click this link to check out eye shadow shades available from Bobbi Brown.

Rogelio Reyna showcases Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Collection in South Florida

The W Hotel Fort Lauderdale hosted a special Bobbi Brown Showcase on Thursday, June 7th, 2012 to a room full of excited ladies from all over South Florida. Global Artist Rogelio Reyna worked the room with his electric personality as he introduced Bobbi’s Long-wear Collection.

Guests were treated to check-out the latest products while learning tips and tricks from talented make-up artists by Ted Gibson Salon. Bliss Spa was also on-hand giving delicious hand rub downs. I swear, the line at the Bliss table was enormous!

Vivian Calvo, Rosy Cordero, Rogelio Reyna, Adriana Castro

And even though we are only in summer, Rogelio gave us a sneak peek at Bobbi Brown’s gorgeous fall collection. And while I have been forbidden from writing about it just yet, I can assure you that you will LOVE it!

Think turquoise, that’s all I’m gonna say. ;)

Mishelle, Vicky, Ninalicia, Rosy

You can purchase products from Bobbi Brown’s Longwear Collection via their website here.


Photo Cred: Photogenpix

Bobbi Brown Global Artist Rogelio Reyna introduces you to the Miami Collection

Bobbi Brown has enjoyed spending time on South Beach in the past, so much so that she dedicated an entire collection to my city–Miami! The colors of the cream shadows really capture the intensity of our nightlife while the signature scent Beach instantly transports you to our clear blue seas.

I met with Rogelio Reyna, Education Executive and Global Artist for Bobbi Brown recently to discuss hot summer trends and how women all over the world can bring a little bit of Miami home with their latest collection.

The line includes four long-wear cream shadows in new shades, Bronze Sugar, Candlelight, Nude Beach, and Copper, limited edition Treatment Lip Shines in three new shades including Peach Sorbet, Pink Seashell, Sunset, and Orchid Peach, limited edition Shimmer Cheek Glow in Gold, their signature fragrance “Beach,” and my favorite product– the Shimmering Fragrance Oil which features flecks of gold that most certainly were captured from the beaming sun that smiles over tourists and locals alike in the 305.

Don’t have the time or money to take a trip to Miami? You can bring a little piece of our multicultural heaven to wherever you are! But if you happen to live or visit South Florida in the near future, stop by the Bobbi Brown counter at Dadeland Mall and meet Rogelio and his fabulous team of ladies!

So without further ado, I leave you in the hands the fabulous Rogelio Reyna who can tell you a bit more about the collection. Take it away Rogelio!

NOTE: To purchase any of the products from the Miami Collection or any Bobbi Brown products, click here.


Photo Cred: Photogenpix.com

Summer Lovin’: 10 Beauty Products you can’t live without this summer

Summer is here and with it comes a slew of products perfectly crafted for the hottest season of the year! I’ve been trying out some of the newest beauty finds for the last month and a half to save you time and money when you get ready to make your purchases.

I can’t think of a better product to kick-off this Summer Lovin’ list than L’Oreal’s Paris Sublime Sun Collection. May is “Skin Cancer Awareness Month” and it’s so important that everyone stock up, use often, and share with friends!

The Sublime Sun Collection is available is SPF 30 and 50 and is formulated with an advanced photostable patented UV filter system, powerful antioxidants and luxurious ultra-lightweight textures. The collection is infused with multi-action antioxidants for protection against free radicals and features an exclusive patented UV filter system to deliver longer-lasting protection against UVB rays.

L'Oreal Paris Sublime Sun Collection

While I am currently Nivea’s Latina Brand Ambassador, I’ve been a long-time fan of their high quality products. Nivea has a wide range of lip balms that I recommend for casual use but when you head out to the pool or beach, use “A Kiss of Protection.”

It provides continuous protection from the damaging effects of the sun with SPF 30 and gives long lasting moisture to leave your lips smooth and protected.

As with any SPF product, re-apply often!

Nivea's "A Kiss of Protection"

Now that we’ve made sure your skin is protected, you don’t want to sacrifice a nice tan! So many brands have wonderful bronzing products while many don’t work at all. Laura Mercier has a great range of products that will give you that sun-kissed glow sans the harmful UVA and UVB rays.

One of their top selling items, which just so happens to be a multiple beauty award winner, is their “Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20.” It is a sheer, lightweight moisturizer with SPF 20 & a hint of color that can be used in place of foundation for a natural appearance while adding a healthy glow to your complexion.

It comes in 10 shades including Porcelain, Nude, Bisque, Sand, Fawn, Almond, Caramel, Tan, Walnut, and Mocha.

If you want to add a bit of color to your body, I recommend Laura Mercier’s “Body Bronzing Makeup” which instantly reveals healthy, radiant, bronzed skin without long-term commitment.

Laura Mercier Bronzers

One of my favorite products of the season is Amway Artistry’s 3D Face Powder. I had no idea how much my make-up routine was missing this unique face powder until I started using it as my final step before walking out the door.

Here is my regular make-up routine for my face: foundation, pressed powder, blush, bronzer, and 3D Face Powder. The 3D Face Powder helps me enhance and highlight my best features (love my cheekbones!). It also serves to contour and add subtle definition.

Amway Artistry 3D Face Powder

When you are getting ready for a night out with the girls or a hot date, make sure you pick-up Estee Lauder’s Limited Edition “Five Color Gelée Powder EyeShadow Palette” from their Bronze Goddess Capri Summer 2012 Collection. When you sample this sexy set of colors, it will definitely become one of your go-to palettes this summer!

The metallic shades can be applied wet or dry and will highlight, define and dramatize your eyes.

Estee Lauder Pure Color Palette

I love having fun with lip shades and I have two different types of products that will suit your varied needs. For the more “natural” girl, Clinique makes an amazing product called the, Chubby Stick. You can go into any of my handbags or make-up bags at any given time and you will find at least one shade!

It is a step-up from a lip balm because it has a punch of color without sacrificing the ultra nourishing qualities. It comes in 16 delicious shades like Mega Melon, Curvy Candy, Mighty Mimosa, and Woppin’ Watermelon. You can wear it alone or you can layer more than one shade at a time.

Clinique Chubby Sticks

If you want to vamp up your color when you are out for Happy Hour or when you want to flirt with that hot guy/girl across the room, I suggest you pick up CoverGirl’s Blast Flipstick Lipcolor. Sofia Vergara represents the collection so you KNOW you can’t fail with these one-of-a-kind blendable lip duos.

You can use either either side on their own or you can blend the shades together to create a sexier shade! Buy a few of the sticks and blend between tubes for an even more unique combo.

CoverGirl Flipstick

Bobbi Brown loves Miami and us natives are elated that she dedicated an entire collection to our city! I really want to include all the products as a “top pick” because the cream eye shadows and the shimmer cheek glow are must-haves. But if I have to pick one product that I can’t live without, it’s the Shimmering Fragrance Oil!

The moisturizing body oil shimmers on the skin and it has a subtle sampling of the collection’s perfume, Beach. I’m not huge on overdosing on perfume, so the oil puts just enough while adding a sultry glow.

Watch for an upcoming post later today where I interview a top Bobbi Brown artist about this collection!

Bobbi Brown's Miami Collection

Tarte created a fun and easy to apply waterproof eye liner called, smolderEYES. Made of Amazonian clay, smolderEYES can create a crisp, clean line or a sexy, smokey look. And since its waterproof, you don’t have to head to the beach or pool with a blank canvas!

It comes in eight shades including golden black, bronze, plum, charcoal, brown, navy, olive and fig.

Tarte's smolderEYES

Finally, you are going to need a highly-rated waterproof mascara when you are making a splash. Urban Decay created Cannonball, a light weight gel formula that they actually tested in the ocean. A special microcrystalline wax works with the dense, fuzzy brush to increase seductive length and volume, all while never flaking off and compromising your lashes’ natural feathery texture.

Urban Decay's Cannonball Mascara

Do you have favorite products you can’t live without during the summer? Let me know if the comments!

Make-Up Monday: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Eye Collection hits shelves in April

Talk about a product that I’ve been waiting for all my life! As an entertainment writer, I find myself being out and about for most of the day, nearly every time. Applying and re-applying make-up sometimes is a luxury so Bobbi Brown’s Long-Wear Eye Collection is the perfect product to get me through my day and into the night.

The collection, being billed as, “perfect for the busy woman who has just a few minutes to do her makeup in the morning— and needs it to look good all day long,” will include their Intensifying Long-Wear Mascara in black, Long-Wear Eye Pencils (available in Jet, Mahogany, Smoke, Hunter, Black Navy & Black Plum) and Long-Wear Cream Shadows (available in Velvet Plum, Cool Lilac, Black Violet, Smokey Topaz, and Black Plum).

All three products will cost $24 each and are available for purchase at Bobbi Brown Counters and via their website here.

Make-Up Monday: Bobbi Brown Party Eye Palette

 
Bobbi Brown knew she was putting together a party in a palette when she created the aptly named, “Party Eye Palette” as part of her 2012 Holiday Gift Collection.  Included are a delicious array of neutrals with a kick of shimmer transforming any fresh-faced chica into a bombshell in minutes!

One of my favorite things about this specific palette is that you can easily give this as a gift to any special lady in your life without fear that the colors may not work with their skin tone. It includes shadows in Bone Shimmer Wash, Champagne Quartz Metallic, Pebble Metallic, New Pink Blaze Sparkle, Copper Sand Shimmer Wash, and a rich Black chocolate.

For the woman-on-the-go, you don’t even have to carry along an extra brush for the post-work party. The palette comes with a Mini Dual Ended Eye Shadow/Eyeliner brush.

I attended the ‘Evenings in Vogue’ Missoni event last night and I used these shimmery shades to glam-up for the star-studded event. I got so many compliments on my make-up that I can’t wait to use it again!

The Bobbi Brown Party Eye Palette is a Limited Edition piece that you don’t want to miss. It is available for purchase via her official website here for $45 or at your favorite department store.