This That Beauty » #NYFW

ThisThatBeauty’s Exclusive Coverage of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall/2010: Iman Cosmetics Backstage at Arise African Collective

Felicia — Sat, 27 Feb 2010 14:27:59 +0000

Faithful ThisThatBeauty readers know that the Arise African Collective show at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week is one of my personal favorites. For the last two season, I have had the pleasure of covering both backstage and the runway.

For the Fall/Winter 2010 season of the African Collective, unfortunately due to scheduling conflicts, I was not able to attend…and boo it up with Tyson…

(Season One)

(Season Two)

I also missed out on the likes of Alek Wek, Liya Kebede, Stacey McKenzie. Boo hoo! *real tears*

Season one of the African Collective was ushered in with a sonic boom. I confess I nearly wet myself with excitement when the iconic, often imitated, but never duplicated, Grace Jones hit the runway. The normally reserved press and celebs in attendance went absolutely bananas. You could hear folks yelling – Strange’! (Those who remember “Boomerang will get my Strange’ reference)

Even though I was not able to attend the African Collective this season, I was able to get the rundown on the makeup. Iman Cosmetics was the makeup sponsor. I simply adore Iman and the inspiration behind her brand. I respect that the line speaks to an under represented demographic AND is frugalista friendly. March on over to your local Wal-Mart, Duane Reade, or Tar-jay of choice, and you will find Iman Cosmetics. For a while, in my humble opinion, the brand had fallen off and did a less than satisfactory job of keeping drugstore shelves stocked with product. Over the last year I’ve been sneaking up on Iman Cosmetics in random drugstores, and it makes me very happy to observe that the company is much improved in the areas of plentiful stock, swatching samples, and new products. For these reasons, I am giving Iman Cosmetics a well deserved “atta boy”…or girl, i guess. *smile*

While I love presenting the backstage makeup run down for shows that I cover, I particularly enjoy offering my readers the run down on makeup looks that are affordable. May this montage of runway looks from The African Collective inspire and encourage you to visit your local drugstore, purchase the products, and recreate the looks! Go on…channel your inner model!

BLACK COFFEE

Fashion Inspiration was organic, un-constructed, and earthy in natural tones of sand, stone, and putty popped with muted turquoise and apricot

Makeup Concept: Soft, ethereal, sun-blushed and feminine
Eyes: Mixed Metals Eye Shadow Duo, Wicked Eye Defining Powder, Platinum Luxury Liquid Eye Liner
Cheeks: Afterglow Sheer Bronzing Powder
Lips: Rapture Luxury Lip Stain

DEOLA SAGOE
Fashion Inspiration was a precise, no-nonsense, geometric, mixed-media feel in military tones of black, pewter, grey and navy.

Makeup Concept: Emphasis on bold dramatic brows with sheer neutral contoured face, eyes, and lips
Eyes: Blackest Brown Perfect Eyebrow Pencil, Bewitched Luxury eye Defining Powder, Perfect Mascara
Cheeks: Sable Luxury Blushing Powder,
Lips: Tan Perfect lip Pencil, Crystal Luxury Lip Shimmer

LOINCLOTH & ASHES
Fashion Inspiration was a fusion of soft and architectural textures in putty, charcoal and black popped with touches of lapis blue

Makeup Concept: The emphasis is on bronzed skin and soft earth toned eyes and lips
Eyes: Bronze Goddess Eye Shadow Duo, Jet Black Perfect Eye Pencil, Perfect Mascara
Cheeks: Clay Sheer Bronzing Powder & Sunkissed Luxury Blushing Powder
Lips: Exposé Luxury Lip Shine

Which look is you fav?

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Felicia Walker Benson is a makeup expert, style/beauty writer and wardrobe stylist. She enthusiastically shares her passion for the aforementioned with anyone who will listen. Felicia is Editor in Chief for ThisThatBeauty, Contributing Writer for Essence.com and LVCMag, Contributing Editor/NY Correspondent for The Makeup Girl and a Beauty Expert for Examiner.com. Additionally, Felicia is the Social Networking Editor for the premier professional makeup artistry magazine, ON MAKEUP.

Disclosure From time to time the good folks from various brands, PR companies, and marketing firms graciously submit product to ThisThatBeauty for editorial consideration. Much appreciated! However, ThisThatBeauty readers can take comfort in knowing that gratis product has never nor will it ever guarantee a mention on my lil ol blog.

Robert Verdi and GINGER+LIZ

Felicia — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 05:00:50 +0000

I swear, Robert Verdi keeps the best darn company! His intimate Luxe Laboratory soirees never disappoint. When invited to cover his events, I know I am pretty much guaranteed to walk away with unique discoveries, great content for my readers, and a splitting side from laughing so hard. Good times!

During Mercedes Benz Fashion Week I had the pleasure of attending Robert Verdi’s Future of Fashion Twitter Party and Press Lounge Retreat. True to form, Robert reinforced my love of his affairs. At the Future of Fashion Press Lounge I was introduced to GINGER+LIZ, two talented young entrepreneurs with an impressive line of nail lacquers. Here I am with the “LIZ” portion of the “GINGER+LIZ” equation…A friend had previously emailed me regarding the launch of a new nail lacquer line at Bendel’s (GINGER+LIZ) so I was somewhat familiar with the brand when Robert made the introduction….ah yes, the “introduction”. Again, this is why I enjoy Robert’s affairs so….the “introduction”. Even though I had peripherally heard of the dynamic duo GINER+LIZ, it was great to meet the ladies in person, get the deets on their spunky fashion inspired line of lacquers, and experience the polish (yep, I’m showing off my GINGER+LIZ mani in the picture above). And while its not offish yet (in fact its probably won’t happen at all. LOL), but there’s a slight possibility that I may have maybe possibly named a new GINGER+LIZ polish:

While at the Future of Fashion Twitter Party Robert/GINGER+LIZ mentioned that the greyish polish is in need of a name. I suggested “STEEL IT“. Lets see if it sticks and I get a lifetime supply. Sweet!

The Fabulous Report crowned Robert Verdi’s Future of Fashion Press Lounge the “Best Suite” of NYFW. And I have to tell you, after refueling my dehydrated self in several press lounges around the tents — I must agree. Robert’s sponsors are a well curated group of brands that freely offer face time with press, impeccable services, and useful content.

Another successful fashion week, Robert Verdi! “Til we meet again.#NYFW

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ThisThatBeauty’s Exclusive Coverage of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall/2010: The Sickest Accessories To Hit The Catwalk

Felicia — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 17:54:43 +0000

The quickest route to a kick ass outfit is ridiculously outstanding accessories. The right statement necklace can instantly and magically transform ye olde LBD into an eye popping show stopper. While clothes, hair and makeup are the first aspects of fashion that come to mind when I think about Fashion Week, accessories are a key component of every designer’s presentation.

Check out ThisThatBeauty’s rundown of the sickest accessories to hit the runway for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week AW/2010.

BCBG

Carolina Herrera

Halston

Jason Wu

Jill Stuart

John Bartlett

Ports 1961

Zac Posen

#NYFW

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ThisThatBeauty’s Exclusive Coverage of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall/2010: Felicia Walker Benson Key Makeup Artist at the Vessel by Lois Samuels

Felicia — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 15:39:23 +0000

My goal for the makeup was to create an aesthetic that would balance and enhance Lois Samuels’ collection. Her collection, the Vessel, is very clean with masculine and parochial school influences from Lois’ youth. This is my second season working with the designer. The makeup must introduce an element of structure to align with the look of the collection. This season we conveyed structure through the cheeks and brows. The cheeks were strategically sculpted to bring a masculine edge. Brows were groomed and not overly filled in….similarly to how one would groom a man’s brows.

The cheeks wore no blush, just a light dusting of mineral radiance (exact shade: splendor) to the apples. The high planes were highlighted with a blend of moisturizer and lunar dust.

I incorporated shades up plum, aubergine and muted grey to bring vibrancy to the eyes (exact shades: heather smoke, halo, alabaster, storm). The eyes were also rimmed with black liner then smudged with shadow so that the actual liner was not obvious, but the intensity was present. The lips were lightly stained (exact shade: bistro).

For the skin I wanted luminosity and coverage. To achieve this balance the skin was prepped with Youngblood Mineral Primer and then applied a combination of both loose and liquid mineral foundation according to the individual model’s skin. The face was refreshed with Minerals in the Mist. High Def Hydrating Mineral Perfect completed the look.

#NYFW

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ThisThatBeauty’s Exclusive Coverage of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall/2010: Lacoste channels Benetton

Felicia — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 18:22:47 +0000

Anyone else feeling a Benetton circa 1980something moment coming on?

This year’s Lacoste collection is an interesting (slight) departure from the brand’s core design aesthetic. A brightly color blocked tube dress, an over-sized off white cocoon sweater and vivid shades of yellow, orange, pink, and green dominated the runway. Of course the good folks at Lacoste snuck in a polo or two…I mean c’mon, it is “Lacoste”…but over all the brand attempted to flex its creative muscle and expand its offerings for women. The Fall 2010 collection is a refreshing step forward for Lacoste….less popped collars!

Photo credit: Getty Images

#NYFW

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ThisThatBeauty’s Exclusive Coverage of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall/2010: My Picks for Prettiest Runway Makeup – Day Two

Felicia — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 16:54:37 +0000

ThisThatBeauty’s Picks for Prettiest Runway Makeup – Day Two of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall/2010
Sit back, relax, and peep my picks while I give props to the prettiest makeup to prance the runway.
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MAC for Cynthia Rowley – I occasionally fancy fantasy so this look sends my heart fluttering.

Victoria’s Secret Beauty for Christian Siriano – This is the sort of runway look that is easily “consumerized” and replicated for everyday women. Strong brows/ lips and great skin frame and complete this look. With a quick groom of the brows and swipe of the lipstick bullet, this look can be yours. The result is polished and impeccable…and definitely “signature look” worthy.

MAC for Nicole Miller – I love eyes, lips, and cheeks in harmony. This look gives us full face in a strategically balanced fashion. The makeup is present on eyes, lips, and cheeks but the balance is divine. Pure genius!

Revlon for Rag & Bone – Because I love dirty 90′s makeup done right!

MAC for Jason Wu – Pretty, feminine, ethereal.

Maybelline New York for Michael Angel – I love how the artist made chartreuse wearable. The contrasting balance is pure artistry!

MAC For Ruffian – The bold pop of color beautifully compliments the icy eyes. Gorgeous mix of elements!

Image credits: Getty Images, Courtney Dunlop, Laura Kenney, Wella

#NYFW

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ThisThatBeauty’s Exclusive Coverage of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall/2010: Maybelline New York Backstage Makeup at Michael Angel

Felicia — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 15:50:14 +0000

Eyes ruled the runway at Michael Angel (designer pictured above). Charlotte Willer for Maybelline New York worked a tiny miracle and made chartreuse on the eyes wearable (no small feat) by containing the boldly hued pigment to the lower lash line and balancing it with deeply muted tones on the lid.

Makeup artist Charlotte Willer drew inspiration from Michael Angel’s elements of stained glass. She created two distinct looks that popped with bright, jewel tones. Skin was kept soft and pretty, while shades of neon green, gold and topaz blue illuminated the eyes.

All makeup by Maybelline

Brighten up complexion with Mineral Power Illuminator.
Choose Eye Studio Quad in Green with Envy or Sapphire Siren. Use the all-around shade as base, line bottom lashes with standout shade and apply neutral color to crease and lid.
Finish look with Color Sensational Lip Color in Totally Toffee.

#NYFW

Photo credit: Getty Images

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ThisThatBeauty’s Exclusive Coverage of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall/2010: Bobbi Brown Backstage Makeup at Yigal Azrouel

Felicia — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 15:25:49 +0000

The most minimalist runway makeup look I have seen so far comes [not surprisingly] from Bobbi Brown for Yigal Azrouel. I often reference Bobbi Brown as the “Queen of Neutrals“. This moniker is not meant to poke fun. It truly represents my view of Bobbi Brown’s makeup aesthetic. While her current collection introduces a lovely collage of coral tones, and a few seasons back Brown came bursting out of the gate with this, she is generally known for beautiful neutral understated makeup…and strong brows. The Yigal Azrouel runway way look gave classic Brown, minus the strong brow. See for yourself and get the step by step deets:

All makeup is by Bobbi Brown.

Prep skin with Hydrating Face Cream before perfecting a medium coverage with the Foundation Stick.
Highlight the cheekbone and top of nose and chin with Hydrating Eye Cream.
Use Creamy Concealer and Corrector where necessary.
To enhance the natural shadow of the eyes, smooth Suede Long-Wear Cream Shadow all over lid before lightly applying and smudging Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Sepia Ink into the upper and lower lashline.
Define brows by brushing up with Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Sepia Ink.
Tone cheeks down with Bronzing Powder.
Finish look by mixing Hot Cocoa and Salmon Lip Color onto pucker with lips.

#NYFW

Photo credit: Getty Images

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ThisThatBeauty’s Exclusive Coverage of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall/2010: Day One Reflections

Felicia — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 16:49:26 +0000

With a nasty case of self diagnosed food poisoning barely behind me, it was with much trepidation that I made my way to day one of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

Rather than over exert my barely regulated tummy by crazily jaunting from show to show, I decided to play it as cool as a fan and rock the “events” scene. I’ve got six more days of actual fashion shows so I’m alright with taking things slow and steady Eddie.

My look for Day One was what I like to call “The Deranged Snow Bunny”. The look is built for warmth, comfort, and functional style. The makeup is simple yet infused with a generous layers of buildable sheer blush to thoroughly reinforce the whole whole “deranged snow bunny” feel.

Complete deets on “The Deranged Snow Bunny”:

Dress: DVF (its a dress turned tunic to suit the cold temp. It’s paired with a random black fitted long sleeve tee)
Pants: Tart leggings (what you cant see in this pic is the cool metal zipper that runs up the back. My way of drizzling in a lil rocker chic.
Necklace: A multi strand gold and silver tone piece that was a Christmas gift from BFF Monireh
Coat: Vintage Whiskey Mink (You’re not my judge and jury. Thank you:) LOL)
Boots: Old school J Crew over the knee shearling boots.

The Makeup

Youngblood mineral primer
Becca concealer truffle
Stila creme blush in Fuchsia
Eve Pearl Loose powder in dark
L’Oreal Infalliblele Gloss in plumping red

The started the day with me picking up my press pass and the un-de-iced Bryant Park. Grrr….Luckily I was wearing my older than dirt JCrew over the knee shearling boots. These bad boys predate the Ugg boot craze….yea, I’m ahead of my time like that (that’s why y’all eff with me, right?:))

Where was I? Oh yes. After picking up my press pass, my first stop was the HauteLook Lounge at the Bryant Park Hotel. The HauteLook Lounge is an editor’s oasis. It is a (somewhat) serene media escape from the hustle and bustle of le tents. There I met with representatives from Exhale Spa and Actifirm skin care. Faithful ThisThatBeauty readers know that skincare is my core so I was all ears as reps from both lines talked shop about their respective products and services. More to come, I promise!

From The HauteLook Lounge I had a non Fashion Week related appointment and then it was back to business at 5:00 for the RealBeauty.com event in Tribeca. RealBeauty.com is Hearst’s new beauty and wellness site. The launch event featured a special appearance by Katherine McPhee. In between cocktails and hors d’oeuvres (I had ginger ale..tummy’s still ikky) I managed to sneak in a quick mani at the RealBeauty nail salon. Check out my Zoya mani….drats, I do not recall the name of the polish. Its a purple-blue with irredescent sparkle. Special shout to Carolyn Hsu of The Daily Obsession…we were mani buddies!

After RealBeauty.com’s event, I met up with my NYFW sister for anotha motha, Adriana Nova. We met up at “Beauty Bash”, which was basically, a Botox and Latisse party. Curiosity got the best of me and led me to this affair which was hosted by Advance Derma Laser Tech of Madison Avenue. I arrived at the event as a tight faced cynic…and left with a Latisse prescription. Ha! How ya like those apples? What can I say?…they converted me. More to come on my adventures with Latisse after I get my prescription filled.

As for BOTOX, c’mon now ya know the kid wasnt going that route. But for $hits and giggles I asked for an evaluation. Upon inspection of my pristine mug, the doc advised me to get the heck outta his face. Love it!

“Beauty Bash” pretty much capped the evening…with six more days of shows to go, I decided to head back to Jersey and rest up for Day Two. More tomorrow…stay tuned!

#NYFW

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NYFW News: Korto Momolu to Present The Korto Momolu Collection at Mercedes Benz New York Fashion Week

Felicia — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 05:02:41 +0000

Project Runway’s fifth season contestant Korto Momolu (Cut • Toe – Mo • Mo • Lu) is set to debut her line, The Korto Momolu Collection, during Mercedes Benz New York Fashion Week at the Union Square Ballroom on February 15, 2010. Of the contemporary female apparel and accessories line Momolu says, “This is my return to fashion week after Project Runway, so it’s important for me to establish my voice.”

Momolu is best known for her intrinsic creations that draw from her lifestyle, cultural influences, and design background. “The fall 2010 collection is an eclectic blend of rich fabrics, detailed beading and infusion of northern African influences. It holds true to everything I am as a designer, focusing on fit, structure and detail.”

Expect a strut by strut NYFW report from ThisThatBeauty. In addition to attending the show I am hoping to cover backstage makeup. Stay tuned!

#NYFW

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