All About Hooded Eyes!

Hooded eyes are an eye shape where part or all of the eyelid is covered by the upper part of the eyelid.  When the eyes are open, you see little or no eyelid at all.  This can happen due to aging or it can just be hereditary.  You can be born with a bone structure that causes the upper lid to protrude over the lower lid, which disguises your crease.  I always thought that the eyelid had to be COMPLETELY covered by the upper lid, but this is not true.  It was then that I realized that I too have hooded eyes.  I actually have a combination of two eye shapes.....hooded and upturned/almond.  Below are a list of the most common eye shapes.

Many people who have hooded lids hate them.  Depending on how hooded your lids are, some makeup looks can be harder to pull off.  If you have hooded lids, don't fight them.  Just figure out what looks work best for your lids.  As you can see, there are many beautiful women who have hooded lids.  All you see is their beauty, not their hooded lids.

Hooded lids are often viewed as sexy and mysterious.  That's why they are referred to as "bedroom eyes".  You can see that in Catherine Zeta - Jones' beautiful eyes.  

One trick for flattering a hooded lid is to pluck your brows.  Pluck them into a shape that has an arch, and provides as much lids space as possible.  The more lid space you have, the less hooded the eyes appear.  Just make sure not to pluck your eyebrows super thin.  This will age you.

Another trick to define the eyes and add dimension, line the upper and lower lash line.  

Highlight the brow bone.  By doing so, you draw attention upwards, which gives the appearance of a lifted look.  Hooded lids can make eyes look droopy, depending on how hooded they are.  

When applying shadow, use upward strokes with your brush.  Because there is no visible crease to a hooded lid, you need to create one.  I like to put my darkest shadow in the crease, while blending it up and out toward the outer corner of my eye.  I use small circular motion, while blending up and out.

Highlight your inner corners with a white/ivory shadow, as well as your lids.  This will make your eyes appear more open and awake.  If you do have some lower lid that shows when your eyes are open, the light will reflect off the lid making it appear larger.

Obviously, you aren't going to use all these techniques in all of your looks.  Some will look better than others, depending if you have some lid showing or none at all.  These are just my tips.  You will need to experiment to find out what flatters your eye shape and what your preferences are for eye shadow looks.  If you try something and you aren't sure if you like it, take a close up picture.  Many times pictures reveal to us the truth of how an outfit or makeup look comes off.  At the end of the day when it comes to makeup and fashion, do what makes you feel beautiful and confident.  Experiment to find your best look.  Stop looking at hooded lids as the difficult and dreaded eye shape.  Work with them.  Makeup is about finding techniques that best highlight your features.  

Have fun experimenting!

- XOXO Monique

Quote Of The Week

The beauty of a woman must be seen from in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place where love resides.

 - Audrey Hepburn

Beauty Deals - 1/05/13 - 1/11/13 - CVS, Rite-Aid, & Walgreens

CVS

RB = Reward Bucks - Coupons that can be used on your next visit.

-  Nature's Bounty Optimal Solutions - BOGO FREE

-  Sundown Naturals Vitamins - BOGO FREE

-  CeraVe Skin Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Physicians Formula Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Revlon Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Almay Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  L'Oreal Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Aveeno Facial Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Neutrogena Cosmetics, Facial Care, Hair Care, Mens, Sun, Sunless, and Hand Cream - BOGO 50% Off

-  Citracal BOGO 50% Off

-  One A Day Vitamins - BOGO 50% Off

-  Centrum - BOGO 50% Off

-  Vitafusion Multivites - BOGO 50% Off

-  Olay Facial Cloths, Cleansers, Hydrating Lotion, Cream, Complete Age Defying, Pro X Brush Heads, and Olay Anti Wrinkle - BOGO 50% Off

-  L'Oreal Skin Care - Buy $30, get $10 RB

-  Dove Body Wash, Cream Oil Lotion, Dove & Lever Bar Soap - Buy 2, get $5 RB

-  Sally Hansen Cosmetics - Spend $10, get $3 RB

-  Cover Girl Foundation, Powder, Blush, Concealer, and Eye Cosmetics - Spend $15, get $5 RB

-  Suave Body Lotion, Mens Shampoo + Conditioner, Keratin, Moroccan, Kids, and Stylers - Spend $12, get $4 RB

-  Alive Vitamins - 25% Off

Rite-Aid

UR = Up Rewards - Coupons that can be used on your next visit.

-  Sundown Vitamins & Supplements - BOGO FREE

-  Natures Bounty Vitamins - BOGO FREE

-  Almay Lip & Eye Products - BOGO 50% Off

-  Maybelline Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Wet N Wild Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Revlon Colorstay, Photo Ready, and Age Defying Products - BOGO 50% Off

-  John Frieda Frizz Ease, Full Repair, Root Awakening, Brilliant Brunette, Radiant Red, Sheer Blonde, and Luxurious Volume - BOGO 50% Off

-  Cover Girl Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Neutrogena Acne Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Rimmel Nail Color - BOGO 50% Off

-  L'Oreal Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Old Spice Deodorant or Body Spray - BOGO 50% Off

-  Clairol Herbal Essence Body Wash - BOGO 50% Off

-  Ivory Skin & Bath Care - BOG 50% Off

-  Olay Skin & Bath Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Physicians Formula Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Clean & Clear Acne Care Products - BOGO 50% Off

-  Suave Hair, Skin, Bath, & Deodorant Items - Spend $6, get $2 UR


Walgreens

RR = Register Rewards - Coupons that can be used on your next visit.

-  Nature Made Vitamins (select varieties) - BOGO FREE

-  Natures Bounty Supplements - BOGO FREE

-  Revlon Face, Eye, and Lip Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Almay Face & Eye Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Rimmel Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Cover Girl Face & Eye Cosmetics - BOGO 50% Off

-  Olay Body Wash & Bar Soap - BOGO 50% Off

-  Ivory Body Wash & Bar Soap - BOGO 50% Off

-  St. Ives Skin Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  One A Day Vitamins - BOGO 50% Off

-  Jergens Lotion - BOGO 50% Off

-  Citracal - BOGO 50% Off

-  Yes To Skin & Hair Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Old Spice Bar Soap & Body Wash - BOGO 50% Off

-  Vaseline Skin Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Caltrate - BOG 50% Off

-  Centrum Vitamins - BOGO 50% Off

-  Simple Skin Care - BOGO 50% Off

-  Gilette Body Wash - BOGO 50% Off

-  Tressemme Hair Care, Treatment & Select Stylers - Buy 2, get 2,000 points added to your card

-  EOS Lip Care - Buy 2, get 3,000 points added to your card.

-  Maybelline Cosmetics (select varieties) - Buy $10 worth, get 3,000 points added to your card.

-  Sally Hansen Salon Effects, Luster Shine, and Complete Salon Nail Color - Buy 2, get 2,000 points added to your card.

-  Gilette Fusion Shave Gel, Venus Refills, & Mach 3 Refills - Buy $30 worth, get $10 RR

-  Olay Smooth Finish Hair Removal Kit, Regenerist Skin Care, & Total Effects Moisturizer - Buy 2, get 4,000 points added to your card.

-  Olay Pro X Skin Care - Buy 2, get $10 RR

*These are National Deals and can vary from State to State.

2014 Spring Trends - Beauty & Fashion

To date, my 2013 Fall Fashion Trends post is the most popular post on my blog.  I can take a hint, so I thought I should do the same for Spring 2014.  Even if all of these trends aren't for you, try one or two.  Try something you wouldn't normally go for, and have some fun!!

-  Soft Berry Lips
I love a deep berry lip in the fall and winter.  This spring we are still sticking with the berry color, just a softer, more muted version.  For a softer berry color that is still moisturizing, try berry in a lip balm.  Cover Girl, Jordana, and Revlon all have great berry balms that I love wearing.  Pretty color and very comfortable to wear.

-  Bright Orange Lipstick
I'm glad this trend from last year is sticking around.  One of my very first makeup looks that I posted was with a bright orange lip.  I used Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick in Vibrant Mandarin. With this look, I like to keep the eyes simple.  Let the lips be the statement.  A little eyeliner and mascara is all you need.  This simple, yet dramatic look is also great when you are in a hurry.  You look pulled together with minimal effort.  To see the post I did of an orange lip, Click Here!

-  Cat Eyes
I LOVE a cat eye, always have, so I'm glad this trend is sticking around.  They can be very tricky to execute though.  A few of my tricks.....do your eye makeup first.  When you are finished with the eyeliner, dip a Q-tip in makeup remover (not oil based), and use it as an eraser.  You will be able to get your flick with a straight edge and sharp point.  Another tip, use scotch tape at the corners of your eye.  Yes, scotch tape!  Take a small piece, and stick it to the top of your hand and remove a time or two to get some of the stickiness off.  Line the tape up at the corner of your eye, and use it as a template for the liner.  Once removed, you will have a flick with a straight pointed edge.

-  Glowing Skin
Everyone has a preference as to what type of skin finish they prefer.  This year a dewier look is the trend (think Jennifer Lopez).  You can get this look several ways.  Use a dewy finish foundation, such as L'Oreal True Match Lumi.  Use a highlighter/illuminator, these come in powder or cream form.  Last month, I purchased and reviewed The Balm's Mary Lou Minizer and Benefit's Watt's Up.  You can also get the look by using a dewy finish makeup setting spray.  NYX and Urban Decay both offer dewy sprays.  To see my review on the Mary Lou Minizer and Watt's Up Click Here!

-  Low Ponytails
Such an easy pulled together style with minimal effort!  I have always found the low pony to be the chicest.  Another trend for this low style.....gold hair accessories!

-  Side Swept Bangs
This bang has been on trend for awhile, but this year's is a bit different.  The part is set even farther to the side.  It parts around the tail of the eyebrow.  An inch or so in placement makes a big difference with the look.  Try it out for an updated look.  It's just a part, so if you don't like it, there is no commitment.

-  Soft Waves
These waves are meant to look effortless, like you just rolled out of bed and look fabulous.  Wouldn't that be nice?!!  If you are looking for a styling tool to achieve this look, try a large curling wand.  Curl away from your face, and let the curls cool.  Then, finger through them to get that effortless look.  A texturizing spray or cream, can give you that piecey undone look.

-  Platinum Blond
Just like jet black, platinum blond can be very hard to pull off.  For many it can be too harsh, but for some it lends itself to an angelic and sexy look.  When I think of platinum blond, I always think of Gwen Steffani or Marilyn Monroe.  If you are daring and wanting to try this color, spend the extra money and go to a salon.  You definitely need a professional to get the color just right for you.

-  Pretty Pastels
Pastels always remind me of spring, they feel fresh and feminine.  If you tend to shy away from pastels, don't do it from head to toe or with a big floral pattern.  You can pair a top with a neutral bottom, or just use it as an accent color with an accessory or nail polish.

-  Wide Leg Trousers
HALLELUJAH!!  I have always loved a wide leg trouser, so these are never out of style for me!  I think they are so flattering, especially for us pear shaped girls.  To me, they are the classiest of all cuts and they tend to look dressier.  When pairing a top with this pant, look for something more fitted.  You don't want to look wide from top to bottom.  A fitted top, especially when tucked in, will cinch in your waist and the pants will glide over your butt, hips, and thighs to give you a long, lean look.  Pair these with a heel.  You can't go wrong!!

-  Boxy, Cropped Jackets
This is another trend where you need to think about the proportions.  Since this is bigger on top, pair it with a slim fitting t-shirt, and pants that don't flair.  A straight or skinny leg would look best.  Add big earrings or sassy pair of heels and you look super stylish for any occasion!

-  Tea Length Skirts
Oh, the tea length skirt.....I LOVE THEM1  I have always believed that I was born in the wrong time, so I couldn't be happier with this trend.  For me, they scream sophisticated and lady like.  The lady like of a different, simpler time.  I have old pictures of my beautiful grandma in the 50's wearing tea length skirts and fancy tea length dresses.  Her wedding dress was even tea length!   I hope this trend really takes off, and I start seeing the class of another era!  Pair these with a high or kitten heel, and you'll be the most elegant looking woman in the room.

Look Of The Day

I spent the day running errands with my son.  It has been super cold and snowy here, so I wanted to be comfy and warm, but not look sloppy.  This is what I came up with.....

Shirt - The Gap - Bowery T-Shirt

Pants - Tek Gear - Kohl's 

Scarf - Forever 21 (it was included in last months purchases & review)

Boots - Uggs - Victoria's Secret

Coat - A. Byer - not sure the store, because it was a gift.

Purse - Local Thrift Store

Sunglasses - Target

I just wanted a simple and soft daytime look.  I was trying out a few new products today, and this is the look I came up with.

These are all the products I used:

1.  Smashbox Photo Finish Primer

2.  Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation

3.  Revlon Photo Ready Concealer

4.  Maybelline Age Rewind Concealer - Brightener (it isn't pictured, because I lost the cap and had to put the product in a small tupperware container.)

5.  Pixi Beauty Bronzer - Summertime

6.  Milani Baked Blush - 07 Fantastico Mauve

7.  The Balm Mary Lou Minizer 

8.  Maybelline Color Tatttoo - Inked In Pink

9.  Rimmel Glam Eyes - 747 Dark Angel

10.  Physicians Formula Matte Quad - Quartz Quartet

11.  Cover Girl Lash Blast Luxe - Black

12.  L'Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes - Black

13.  Maybelline Lip Pencil - Plum

14.  Wet N Wild Lipstick - 901b Think Pink

First, I applied the color tattoo as a base, from lash line to crease.  Then, I applied the dark purple, from the Rimmel palette, to my lid.  Using the Physicians Formula Palette, I applied the dusty rose color to the crease and blended upwards, for a transition color.  Then, I applied the dark gray, from the Rimmel Palette to the outer V and bottom lash line.  Finally, I applied the light gray, from the Rimmel Palette, to the brow bone.  I used two coats of the Cover Girl Mascara on the top and bottom lashes.  I used two coats of the L'Oreal Mascara to the top lashes only.  The products that were new for me, I will review at the end of the month.

This eye look was quite simple for me.  I used no eyeliner at all.  Blending out the gray shadow on the lower lash line, gave some definition without being harsh.  Perfect for a daytime look. 

Hope you have a great weekend!

-XOXO Monique 

Nails Of The Week

Sally Hansen Insta Dry - 310 Slick Slate

Julie Textured Nail Color - Sugar Plum Fairy

Recipe Of The Week - Beef Stroganoff

I hope everyone enjoyed the holiday's with their friends and family!  Now, it's time to start getting back into our regular routines, which means (for me anyways) easy meals!

Ingredients

1 lb. round steak - 1 inch thick, trimmed
1 cup chopped onion
2 T chopped fresh parsley
2 T dijon mustard
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp dried dill
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 8 ounce package fresh sliced mushrooms (about 2 cups)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/3 cup all purpose flour
1 cup fat free, low sodium beef broth
1 8 oz. container low fat sour cream
2 cups hot, cooked egg noodles (whole wheat would be best)

Cut steak diagonally across grain, into 1/4 inch thick slices.  Place steak and next 8 ingredients (through garlic) in a 3 quart crockpot.  Stir well.

Lightly spoon flour into a dry measuring cup, level with a knife.  Place flour in a small bowl, gradually add broth, stirring with a whisk until blended.  Add broth mixture to crockpot, stir well.  Cover with lid.  Cook on high setting for one hour.  Reduce heat to low for 7 to 8 hours, or until meat is tender.  Turn slow cooker off, and remove lid.  Let sit for 10 minutes.  Stir in sour cream.  Serve over noodles.