Taste of the Tropics Look - Tutorial

Taste of the Tropics Look

'Taste of the Tropics' Look

For this look I used the Sedona Lace 120 Pro Palette Second Edition. Most of the colors are reminiscent of the tropics - yellow, green, blue and purple.

Eyes:

PRIME:
I started off with NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base all over my lid up to the brow bone. I also applied MAC Soft Ochre Paintpot (matte yellow beige) all over my lid up to my brow bone as my primary base.

COLOR:
On the inner lid I applied the brightest yellow eyeshadow in the palette (matte yellow).
For the rest of the lid I applied a medium green eyeshadow from the palette (matte vivid green).
On the outer lid and crease I applied a medium blue eyeshadow from the palette (matte vivid blue).
On the brow bone I applied a light purple eyeshadow from the palette (shimmery purple).
For highlight I used a light champagne eyeshadow from the palette (shimmery champagne).

BROWS:
My brows are filled in with MAC Eyebrow Pencil in Stud.

DEFINE:
I lined my upper lashline with Stila Stay All Day Eyeliner in Black.
I lined my lower waterline with Loreal HIP Cream Eyeliner in Black.
I smudged my lower lashline with a bright orange eyeshadow from the palette (matte orange).
I used Covergirl Lashblast Mascara for my lashes.

 

Lips:
 
POLISH:
I used MAC Sock Hop Lipglass.

Face:

FINISH:
I prepped my skin with Stila One Step Primer.
I used NARS Sheer Glow Foundation in Tahoe with MUFE Full Cover Concealer in #12 under my eyes. I set with MAC Blot Powder in Dark. I used NARS Amour and Deep Throat Blushes for my cheeks.

 

Stila One Step Correct - Thoughts...

Stila One Step Correct - Thoughts...

Skin tone correcting, brightening serum

swirl your way to perfect skin in one step.

this innovative triple-swirled helix serum instantly color corrects, brightens, primes and nourishes the skin.

one step correct immediately improves skin tone, evens out your complexion and helps smooth fine lines.

- green - minimizes redness 

- lavender - counteracts sallow undertones 

- peach - brightens, illuminates and helps diminish the appearance of sun spots

YOUTH REVIVAL Bio-Available Mineral Complex from ARCLAY

- diminishes the look of fine lines & wrinkles

- minimizes pores

- hydrates & balances

- controls oil

I purchased this at the NYC Makeup Show back in May. I have been using this on the weekends when I use minimal makeup and focus mainly on the appearance of my skin. I didn't want to do a review until it was closer to the official debut. Stila is supposed to release this in the summer in addition to their new one step makeup line. They have already released the one step foundation which uses the same YOUTH REVIVAL Bio-Available Mineral Complex from ARCLAY.

Thoughts...

My 4 P's -

PRICE

This holds 1 fl. oz and I am not sure how much it will cost (I forget how much I paid plus it was discounted at the time). I assume it will be priced between $30 and $44 based on Stila's price line for their primers and foundations. This is in line with Smashbox and Make Up For Ever. 

PACKAGING

The product comes in a normal cylindrical container with a pump dispenser. This is one of the best pump dispensers I have ever encountered on a product like this. The pump is perfect for dispensing from a small amount to a full pump without any trouble. You only need a very small amount for your entire face so the pump works out perfectly.

PRODUCT

The product itself is a gorgeous swirl of green, lavender and peach correctors suspended in a clear primer/moisturizer. The overall look is enough for me to want to own one step. But the product is divine. It's a silky smooth but does not have the silicone feel of other primers. It dries to a semi matte finish and doesn't leave a greasy feeling behind.

PERFORMANCE

Stila professes that this is a multi-purpose product which combines moisturizer, skin corrector and foundation primer in one. 

Corrector...?

one step combines three color correctors in green, lavender and peach to help counteract redness, sallowness and dull skin. I don't have too much redness so I can't vouch for this one but it did help to even and brighten my skin tone. It left my skin with a nice subtle glow.

Moisturizer...?

There is also a moisturizer which work well on my oily skin without leaving me greasy. It absorbs well into the skin and dries down to a semi-matte finish but still leaves a glow to my skin. I was surprised by this because I didn't feel like I needed an additional moisturizer at all. It also claims to control oil which I have to agree with. It's not the best oil control product on the market but it did help to keep most oiliness at bay.

Primer...?

The correctors are swirled and suspended in a clear primer which should help diminish fine lines and wrinkles and minimize pores. Ummm...I don't know. I don't have many fine lines or wrinkles to speak of just yet and my pores weren't impressed by this. It did help my foundation apply smoothly but then again so does my moisturizer and kabuki brush. My foundation lasted as long as it does on most days so I'm not sure how much this added to that fact. I can say that my foundation didn't slip or slide off my face like with the MAC or Smashbox Primers I have tried.

Overall...
I find it to be a very very nice corrector, moisturizer, primer combo. The only one I know of on the market. I will not be surprised if we see others to follow. It's a serum so a little goes a very long way with this. Even if it's $40 a pop, I still still it's a good price for the amount of product versus amount for each usage. I do enjoy this product quite a bit and while it may not be a part of my daily regimen it's definite a must-grab for great skin days. I will repurchase...but maybe not for daily use.

'Velvet Coral' Look

'Velvet Coral' Look

This look was created using a simple technique to get the cut-crease effect. It's really easy compared to other techniques I have seen and it takes a lot less time to achieve. I'll do a tutorial of the technique so you see what I mean.

Eyes:

PRIME:
I started off with NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base all over my lid up to the brow bone. I also applied MAC Layin' Low Paintpot (matte creamy beige) all over my lid up to my brow bone as my primary base.

COLOR:
To start off the look I used MAC Velvet moss Eyeshadow (matte moss green) in the crease.
I added a bit of MAC Bottle Green Eyeshadow (matte dark moss green) to the outer V to deepen.
I used MUFE #9 Aqua Cream (light coral) to shape the lid and define the crease beneath the green colors.

On the inner lid and tear duct I applied MAC Blanc Type Eyeshadow (matte ivory).

Next the middle of the lid I applied MAC Dusty Coral Pigment (matte coral).
On the outer lid I applied MAC Hot Hot Hot Eyeshadow (matte red coral).
For the blending on the brow bone I used Smashbox Nude Eyeshadow (matte nude).
For highlight I used MAC Ricepaper Eyeshadow (shimmery champagne).

BROWS:
My brows are filled in with MAC Eyebrow Pencil in Stud.

DEFINE:
I lined my upper lashline with Stila Stay All Day Eyeliner in Black.
I lined my lower waterline with Loreal HIP Cream Eyeliner in Black.
I smudged my lower lashline with MAC Landscape Green Pigment (matte grass green).
I used Covergirl Lashblast Mascara for my lashes and added Beautee Senses Demi Pixie Lashes for effect.
 

Lips:
 
POLISH:
I used MAC Syrup Lipstick topped with MAC Spite Lipglass.
 

Face:

FINISH:
I prepped my skin with Stila One Step Primer.
I used NARS Sheer Glow Foundation in Tahoe with MUFE Full Cover Concealer in #12 under my eyes. I set with MAC Blot Powder in Dark.
I used Illamasqua Expose Blush for my cheeks.

'Golden Macaw' Look

'Golden Macaw' Look

I had absolutely no idea where I was going with this look when I started. I just pulled colors from everywhere and this is what I ended up with. I had some muddying issues with the colors but managed to salvage it at the end except that the green could use a touch more blending.

Eyes:

PRIME:
I started off with NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base all over my lid up to the brow bone. I also applied MAC Layin' Low Paintpot (matte creamy beige) all over my lid up to my brow bone as my primary base.

COLOR:
On the inner lid I applied MAC Blanc Type Eyeshadow (matte ivory).
Next the middle of the lid I applied MAC Goldenrod Eyeshadow (matte golden yellow).
On the outer lid I applied MAC Landscape  Green Pigment (matte grassy green).
Next for the outer crease I used MAC Blue Cyan Pigment (matte vivid blue).
On the inner crease I used MUFE #92 Eyeshadow (matte brilliant purple).
For highlight I used MAC Ricepaper Eyeshadow (shimmery champagne).

BROWS:
My brows are filled in with MAC Eyebrow Pencil in Stud.

DEFINE:
I lined my upper lashline with Stila Stay All Day Eyeliner in Black.
I lined my lower waterline with Loreal HIP Cream Eyeliner in Black.
I lined my lower lashline with MUFE #92 Eyeshadow, MAC Blue Cyan Pigment and MAC Blanc Type Eyeshadow.
I used Covergirl Lashblast Mascara for my lashes and added Beautee Senses Demi Pixie Lashes for effect.

Lips:

POLISH:
I used MAC Vegas Volt Lipstick topped with Dior #3 Lip Polish.
My girl Amy (Ambientblu) just bought Vegas Volt and that reminded me that I owned it too. The Dior Lip Polish added a great juicy effect (although it's not very long wearing).

Face:

FINISH:
I used NARS Sheer Glow Foundation in Tahoe with MUFE Full Cover Concealer in #12 under my eyes. I set with MAC Blot Powder in Dark.
I used NARS Amour Blush for my cheeks.

'Ice Cold Lemonade' Look

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'Arabian Gold' Look

'Arabian Gold' Look

This look has an Arabian feel with the thick lower lashline liner. It's not truly Arabic by any means but it's the closest I have ever come. The golds, pinks and purples used in Arabic makeup are truly beautiful as are the women and the culture.

Eyes:

PRIME:
I started off with NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base all over my lid up to the brow bone. I also applied MAC Layin' Low Paintpot (matte creamy beige) all over my lid up to my brow bone as my primary base. As a secondary base on my inner lid I used MUFE #10 Aqua Cream (shimmery orange).

COLOR:
On the inner lid I applied MAC Mega Rich Pigment (frosty orangy copper).
Next the middle of the lid I applied MAC Fuchsia Pigment (frosty fuchsia pink).
On the outer lid I applied MUFE #92 Eyeshadow (matte brilliant purple).
On the brow bone and for the blending I used Smashbox Nude Eyeshadow (matte nude).
For highlight I used MAC Ricepaper Eyeshadow (shimmery champagne).

BROWS:
My brows are filled in with MAC Eyebrow Pencil in Stud.

DEFINE:
I lined my upper lashline with Stila Stay All Day Eyeliner in Black.
I lined my lower waterline with Loreal HIP Cream Eyeliner in Black.
I lined my lower lashline with MAC Smolder Eye Kohl Pencil and smudeged it with MUFE #92 Eyeshadow (matte brilliant purple). I also used a touch of MAC Ricepaper Eyeshadow (shimmery champagne) on the inner corner.
I used Covergirl Lashblast Mascara for my lashes and added Beautee Sense Demi Pixie Lashes for effect.

Lips:

POLISH:
I used MAC Faux Lipstick topped with MAC Ember Glow Lipglass.

Face:

FINISH:
I used NARS Sheer Glow Foundation in Tahoe with MUFE Full Cover Concealer in #12 under my eyes. I set with MAC Blot Powder in Dark. I used MAC Optimistic Orange Cremeblend Blush for my cheeks.

Aqua Climate Look - Tutorial

Canary Landscape Look - Tutorial

Sedona Lace 120 Pro Palette Second Edition - Thoughts...

Sedona Lace 120 Pro Palette 2nd Edition - Thoughts...

When I first started out in makeup two years ago, I purchased an 88 and 120 palette from Ebay - my very first eyeshadows. I wasn't very happy with them and I ended up giving them away. Since then, these palettes have exploded onto the makeup scene and I have wanted to try out one of the newer palettes.

Welcome Sedona Lace to my rescue. This palette was sent to me for review by the promotions manger at Sedona Lace - website. As you all should know my opinions are unbiased and honest. I am not receiving compensation for this review.

From Sedona Lace -
Our NEW 2nd edition has now been released. This 120 palette has new shades- more soft and pastel colors. This is still a brilliant 2 layered palette with long lasting shimmer and matte shadows that are very soft and can be used either dry or wet.

Price $28.95

Link  

My Four P's...

Price
This palette retails for $28.95 on the website which is about $1 cheaper than many other sellers (Amazon and eCRATER) of similar palettes. In addition, Sedona Lace has offered my readers a discount of $4 off by using the promo code 'thefancyfaced'. So $25 for 120 eyeshadows...not a bad deal at all!

Packaging
I was very worried about the packaging of this palette and I felt better after receiving it. My Manly 120 palette was quite flimsy and actually cracked at the hinges when I first used it.

The Sedona Lace palette is housed in a sleek semi-shiny black case with two layers of eyeshadows stacked on top of each other. The eyeshadows are protected by a clear plastic sheet which is standard for these types of palettes.

The two layers are completely removable but fit neatly into the lids of the case if desired. The case opens but only one side lays flat while the hinges cause a tilt on the other side. I would have liked both sides to lay flat so that I can lay all the eyeshadows out on a flat surface without worrying about them falling over and shattering. But this is just a minor issue. It's sturdy enough for traveling but I kept the bubble for extra safety. If anyone has any of these palettes then you know the eyeshadows can chip and shatter easily.

 

Product
The eyeshadows come in a variety of matte and shimmery shades (about half and half). There are also a few repeat shades but I find that these are the universal colors that you need a bit more of - such as the black, white and champagne.

The colors vary enough for me to feel like I'm getting at least 110 unique shades rather than 80 of the same colors but in matte or shimmer (that was my Manly version).

The color payoff varied from texture to texture. Some of the mattes had a bit of trouble with color payoff while the shimmers had no trouble with pigmentation. I added a few swatches for reference. The eyeshadows were creamy and smooth. Even the mattes, which I thought would be chalky, didn't disappoint. You guys know I love my mattes.Some of the colors were super pigmented and so darn pretty. But again, a few of the mattes had issues with showing up (mainly the yellows) although I did find some beautiful matte shades with killer pigmentation.

The eyeshadows are roughly the size of a nickel (not a dime like other palettes) which is the only issue I have with these large palettes. If I fall in love with a color I will panic that I will run out of it. LOL. However, each color will give you a lot of uses so don't worry too much about that.

Performance

So how do I feel about this product?

I was impressed after trying this palette out. Some colors really blew me away. A few (about 5-7) of the eyeshadows were very sheer and hard to pack on but overall 95% of the colors had good to great color payoff. I will do a few upcoming looks using this palette as well. I can definitely see some nice dupes for MAC and MUFE colors in here!

Overall

This is a great product for beginners or anyone who wants to try out a lot of colors at once to see what works for them. If you are a lover of neutrals then this palette may not be for you since it's loaded with bright colors. If you love bright colors (like I do) then this is right up your alley. It's a good price especially with the discount so if this is something you have been wanting to try go for it!

Website: www.sedonalace.com
Discount Code (for $4 off): thefancyfaced

 Neutral shades - Black, White, Champagne, Silvers 

 Very beautiful pinks. Great color payoff.

 Pretty purples. I see a MUFE #92 dupe lurking.

 These blues are to die for. I was most impressed with the BLUES.

 The greens were nice, some were a bit tricky to work with.

 Nice simple neutrals. Mostly bronze shades. Not many neutral options.

 Look at these oranges! Bright and delightful.

Yellows were my least favorite. Difficult to get good color payoff. There is one great yellow though...and it's a MAC Chrome Yellow dupe...I actually like it better...