Comfy and Glamorous!

Offer me a day of relaxation at anytime in the week...and I am all there! I'm not sure if it was ingrained in me as a child, but either way my father taught me to love tropical trees and my mother taught me a maxi dress is a staple in your closet. I have come to the conclusion I am definitely my parents daughter. Although I am a fan of glitz and glamour, I will always choose choose to be comfy. So the question is...How do you make comfort, glamorous?

Cotton Spandex Jersey Tube Dress in Imperial Purple {American Apparel}

Take for example, eyelashes. Some styles look heavy, and they feel heavy. It's one of the worst feelings to wear a heavy, plastic band that is forcing you to squint the entire night. The lighter the lash band the better to be comfortable. There are 3 options that are easy to apply and easy to wear... 

1. Individual lashes are great for someone who has never attempted to wear false lashes, may have sensitive eyes, or chooses to wear little makeup during "regular" life. You can add drama to the ends by applying them in a close bunch and slowing spread them out as you get closer to the inside of the eye. 

2. The Half-lash is recommended for those who desire to wear a fuller lash but may not have the desire to go all the way with a full band. This will pick up the ends of the eye and give ya a mini face lift. They are super easy to place on your eyes too! 

3. Want a full lash for more drama?! I am wearing the Audrey's by FAUX in this post. Their is a trick to blending your fake lashes with your real lashes...first curl your lashes and add 1-2 coats of your favorite mascara. Next, curl your false lash at the base before apply a small amount of glue to the band. I like to use an eyelash applicator (mine is from Shu Uemura). Always ensure the band is placed directly on your natural lash line for maximum comfort. Lastly, you can curl your lashes once more and than fluff them with your fingers.

Buxom Full-Bodied Lip Gloss In Yoo Hoo

Lip products come in all sorts of textures and flavors. Some like their gloss sticky and some can't stand it! I prefer a more hydrating gloss, one that will eventually absorb without leaving a film on the inside of my mouth. Here are a few lines I like: For a regular lip gloss try Dior Addict Ultra Shine Gloss collection, they are super shiny and still long wearing. I appreciate lip products that do more than just add color, and if you would like a lip plumper with out the tingle, try Bare Minerals Buxom Full-Bodied Lip Gloss.

Curled ends of hair with a 2" Iron {Hot Tools}

As for a foundation, it depends on your preference in formula and texture. Do you like cream? Liquid? Powder? or Minerals? For a comfortable creamy consistency, try the Benefit Play Stick (oily to normal skin type) or the Bobbi Brown Foundation Stick (normal to dry skin-type). There are SO many liquids I can tell you about, but lets start off slowly.... The Estee Lauder BB cream offers wonderful coverage with a light weight feeling (and it will do alot more for your skin in the long run), or try Vitalumiere Aqua Utra Light Skin Perfecting Makeup. MAC is sufficient for a foundation powder, with plenty of color options to choose from! Minerals are a girls second best friend...and if you like them in a loose formula I will always recommend Bare Escentuals. Yep, it's not a powder. It's creamy once you buff it into the skin (the coverage all depends on the brush.)

Once you start playing around with new products you will find makeup can be comfortable, and simplicity is always best! Enhance your natural beauty ladies-don't cover it up!

XOXO
Priscilla Francine 

Yes, Everyone Needs Eye Cream!

Girlfriends...you have to start using eye cream! If your mother never told you about eye cream, buy her one too! (...and let your man share with you too!) I'm not normally this bossy... but it's now my official rule for any age or gender. Especially if you are getting married, all soon-to-be Mrs. must start this daily routine today. Here is why you need to use this additional product day and night...we age the quickest around our eyes because the skin is thinner so fine lines begin to formulate. Dryness occurs which causes our makeup to crease. Our poor diets, lack of sleep, and genetics can give us dark circles. While you may have a facial moisturizer already an eye cream is still necessary. It has different ingredients and different concerns to target.

There is no need to invest your entire month's salary for a quality eye cream... and besides you can now get an Opal for half of what I paid :) try a few of my favorites first before breaking the bank: Avocado Eye Cream by Kiehl's or Contour Cream by Caudalie  and if price is no issue for you, try Chanel or La Mer.

Recently, I began using CytoCell Dark Circle Corrective Eye Cream by Kate Somerville . It has Vitamin C, Eyeseryl, and light diffusing pearls to target my main concern of dark circles. I am hoping I can be part of the 75% who will see results in this area. I have noticed a difference with the light diffusing pearls so I am pretty sure I am a believer in the product. It will also help hydrate and firm my skin with Peptide P-199 and Milk Peptide Complex.

I'd love to hear about your success stories after using an eye cream for the first time!! (Tell me all about it on Twitter!)

XOXO
Priscilla Francine

Berry Christmas

Remember last year when I told you we cut down our own tree? Well, it's now an official tradition-because we did it again! This year, we spent some time searching for the perfect ornaments too. I found some great pieces at Anthropologie, Z Gallerie, and Restoration Hardware. Surprisingly, Cost Plus had the most options-and the best prices!

As I write this post, I had a realization...I have been wearing ALOT of Berry hues, and ALOT of YSL product. I can't get enough of this beautiful, festive color! You can wear it on your cheeks, lips, nails, eyes, clothes...everything! Same goes for YSL!

Jacket by Forever 21

Nail Polish by Chanel

Yves Saint Laurent 'Ombres Duolumieres #21 is my latest obsession. The Intense Plum fits flawlessly into the crease...I love a shadow that blends with ease. Line the eyes with Bobbi Brown's Black Ink Gel Liner seen here, and finish with YSL's Shocking Mascara seen here. Sadly, I think they have discontinued my favorite YSL Golden Gloss #8, but any mauve or berry tone will do for this look!

Here's to a Berry Christmas!

XOXO
Priscilla

Party Planner

With the winter holidays upon us, that means social gatherings galore! Here are a few products I use to prepare my home before quests arrive, and my skin before the parties!

Over the years, Lavender has become one of the most relaxing scents for me. Candles always give me a calm sensation-my favorite candle in the house is my Capri Blue Mercury Glass candle from Anthropologie. The container matches my home decor, and it sits lovely in my glass bowl of dried lavender.

Buy fresh Lavender, let it dry, and than use as a candle filler.

Hand soap is another item I recently have been splurging on...when I first tried L'Occitane's Lavender Cleansing Hand wash I couldn't stop admiring the fragrance. Having a elegant or fun hand wash in the bathroom during the Holidays is always nice for guests to indulge in.

With the long hours of shopping, decorating, and events remember to hydrate under the eyes. The skin under the eye is thinner, showing fine lines and dark circles faster. Kiehl's Avocado Eye cream will soothe the dryness around your eye are (and even the lips!) make sure to follow the directions and "pat" not rub, as the consistency will change and not work as well.  (It's a great price point too only $27!)

Red Nails always gets me in the Holiday Spirit

Last but not least... start prepping your legs and arms for all the Holiday parties. (I can't wait to have some fun this season!) Clarin's Delectable Self Tanning Mousse has Mirabella Oil in it, which is a great moisturizer during the cold season, will give you a healthy color (for that cute sequin dress), and if there is sun out-you even have some protection with it's SPF 15.

Do you have any fun parties planned this season?

XOXO
Priscilla

Intriguied by Others...

Do you ever want to know what's inside someone's bathroom cabinet?  ...do you love digging through your girlfriend's makeup bag? You could own it all, but there is something intriguing about what the girl next to you has. Enjoy a peak into some lovely gals bathrooms, see their latest purchases...ooh and look into their purses!!!

XOXO
Priscilla

Wants of the Week

1. Essie Nail Polish in Blanc: One night I watched every Nail File episode and I was inspired to do an all white nail...maybe with a little glitter over it!

2. The Sponge by Beauty Blender: I have wanted this for a while, but it seems like it has been EVERYWHERE this week. I saw a picture posted by Lori Taylor, and than all of a sudden it's on Keeping up with the Kardashians. Does it really give a flawless finish...I want to find out!?

3. Chanel Illusion D'Ombre Longwear Luminous Eyeshadow in Mirifique It's been said that it won't crease because it's Chanel...they are super creamy, and have an intense pigment!

4. Nars Blush in Exhibit A: I was inspired by this look, and will be replicating this idea in a photo shoot very soon. (Stay tuned)

5. Butter London Powder Finish Foot Creme My feet are going through a stinky phase and I'm not a fan of them ruining my expensive shoes...something has got to change. Is this my answer??? I felt like this should have been created a while ago!!

6. Limitless Liquid Liner Pen in black by Smashbox: Liquid liner will be my go-to look this season. It's easy, and it's bold. Kinda like this HERE

Do you have any products you want this week? I'd love for you to share them with me!!!

XOXO
Priscilla

Fall into Love

I was inspired by Emma Watson's makeup in Vogue's July issue. I feel Fall creeping up, and I don't really know where Summer even went...hmm? I am craving a poncho...and maybe some boots??

As for makeup, choose a thicker coverage to your foundation, think intense defined eyes, and fall in love with a burgundy lip. Nails are dark and cool,get some fun NEW brushes, and prepare for harsher weather with Kiehl's Imperial Body Balm...it's rich and luxurious, just like Falls Makeup Trends.

Fall 2011 Basics by priscillafrancinemakeup on Polyvore.com

Dior 'Diorskin Airflash' Spray Foundation Sand 301 One Size, $60
NARS Duo Eyeshadow Tzarine One Size, $33
Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss - Aubergine, $22
NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil - Toundra, $24
Kiehl's 'Imperial' Body Balm No Color 8 oz, $42
Benefit Cosmetics Dallas - Belk.com, $28
Yves Saint Laurent Noir Radical Mascara, $30
MAC 128 Split Fibre Cheek Brush No Color One Size, $32
XOXO
Priscilla

senorita style

This week our household has been celebrating Cinco de Mayo with ceviche, tamales, and lots of avocados. Hmm, my favorite foods. Tomorrow we will officially celebrate with friends at a BBQ! What will you be doing?

I adore adding a twist to my "everyday" look, and bring out a little of my Latina side. I'll throw a flower in my hair, wear some hoop earrings, paint on a red lip...and wha-la I begin to feel like a Senorita!

Here are a few products appropriate for the holiday, wear them all or just try one... but I promise you feel like drinking a margarita after!

Have dull or dry skin? Use a pea size of Natural Radiance on the cheeks, forehead and nose before applying your foundation. You will notice a healthy glow shine through. 

Laura Mercier Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer-Natural Radiance

YSL Automatic Eyeliner-Green

Here's a great trick...mix a drip of water with any of these bare essential colors, and apply with a flat shadow brush! They will go on very intense, but once they dry you can blend and soften the edges.

Bare Essentials-Pussycat, Queen Phyllis, and True Gold

MAC-Russian Red Lipstick & Brick Lip Liner

Deborah Lippman- My old Flame and Chanel-317 Golden Sand

Have fun with golden tones, forest greens, and vibrant reds!!!
XOXO
Priscilla

Top 10 Beauty rules for a Bride

Wedding season is what I live for, what I dream about at night. It's my passion, to enhance a bride's face to make her feel like a princess for the day. Speaking of princesses and princes...In honor of Prince William & Kate Middleton's wedding this Friday, Danielle, writer of Breakfast at Toast, is hosting a Blog Crawl. I was thrilled to participate.

I'm overwhelmed at what to say...because I have so much to say. I find many things important for a wedding. So as a makeup artist, I thought I would tell you my top 10 beauty rules for YOUR special day:

1. Start a skin care routine at least 5 months before your day, and invest into a Clarisonic to begin perfecting your skin. Skincare will give you that "bridal" glow.

2. Wear MAC lashes #20 and #30, and YES, use both! The corner lashes will give they eye a lift and just enough drama, the individuals will blend the half lash and give a natural soft enhancement.

3. Prep with Smashbox's Anti-Shine and Primer. First, apply the anti-shine and than the primer, each will eliminate movement of your foundation, which makes you look flawless all night long!

4. Take time for a body wrap!!!!! They really do work, just tell them exactly what areas you want to concentrate on. I guarantee you will slide into that white dress with no issues.

5.Wear a long lasting lipstick so kissing is no issue. MAC's Pro Longwear lip color and Chanel's Rouge Double Intensite Ultra Lip color will last till the next morning...

6. Splurge and get hair extensions. The extra volume will give you the perfect curl. The extra length will give you the perfect up-do. Don't worry about the $$$, it's worth it!

7. HAIRSPRAY. HAIRSPRAY.HAIRSPRAY!!

8.If you spray tan, don't spray your face! If the face gets sprayed, hurry home and wash it off. Why?
a.) Makeup goes on smoother.
b.) When you sweat, it smells weird.
c.) You don't want to risk a "bronzer mustache".

9. Make sure your foundation color is PERFECT. Find a salon or makeup brand that customizes foundation, or a makeup artist that can create the perfect blend. If you can't...purchase Dior's Diorskin Airflash Spray.

10. Fragrances make memories come alive, so choose wisely. It seems silly, but this scent will give you butterflies for years to come. Click here to find out what I wore on  my wedding day.

As much as I love makeup and beauty, looks will fade...so make sure the man you are marrying is your best friend. 

Ashley Maxwell Photography

My dress: Trudy's. Flower Girl: JCrew. Bridesmaids: Priscilla of Boston.

Artwork: Triton Museum in Santa Clara

Last but not least,  enjoy every moment!!!!!!

XOXO
Priscilla

A look into my bathroom...

Do you read Vogue? Lately, I have been buying magazines at the grocery store. It is quite pricey, so I am considering giving in and getting a yearly subscription. I also really like Allure, they have sooo many cosmetic reviews!

1. L'Occitane Almond Shower Oil...is great for dry skin, and for shaving. I was scared to venture into a "oil" body cleanser...but it was really nice. I enjoyed the product more when I applied it dry and than rinsed off...it's scent blends well with the Creme De Corps.

2. Kiehl's Creme De Corps body moisturizer has healed my dry skin! I really enjoy how "oily" it feels without a residue after application. It is full of cocoa butter and sesame oil! Great for men too!! Read more about this line here.

3.Ever fill overwhelmed with your options in the self-tanning section?? Ever felt like you didn't really see a difference...or worse-you turned ORANGE!!!? I have had my fair share of bronzing accidents. I don't usually use Lancome, but I am always down to try something once. I fell in love with their Flash Bronzer. It has a natural carmel extract, with a pearl finish. It is also full of antioxidants-so it was hydrating as well!

5.Vegans please pay attention :) Try Dr. Dennis Gross' EXTRA strength Alpha Beta Peels! First, I use my regular face wash...makeup remover...and than Step 1...and than Step 2. Step 2 tingles a bit...which I liked, because I knew it was exfoliating! *It reduced my acne, and made my skin glow the next morning!

6. After exfoliating...always use a SPF. You don't want to repeat the damage you just got rid of! Clarins "Sun Wrinkle Control" is a light weight, comfortable texture. It does not smell, and it is fine to layer with makeup.

7. Laura Mercier's Lip Glace in Bon Bon is a great coral for Summer. It has a yummy vanilla flavor, and a light texture. 

8. Neutral nails always make the skin look more tan...I just painted mine in preparation for Vegas with Chanel's Django. (Read here to learn how to make your at home manicure last longer than normal) I'm hoping I get pleanty of Vitamin D this weekend!

Ok, now I need to go pack!! Stay tuned for pictures from my trip!
XOXO
Priscilla

A look into my bathroom...

Some are oldies, but some are brand new products. When I like something I tend to use it in my daily routine, so I wanted to share what I was stuck on this week...



1. Kiehl's Rare Earth Pore Cleansing Masque $23 Why I use it? Formulated with Amazonian White Clay to gently draw out oil, dirt and toxins that can clog my pores. The addition of Oatmeal and Aloe Vera will help soothe, hydrate and protect my skin.

2. Clarisonic's Opal $294 Why I use it? In just one minute, Opal™ provides more than 7,500 gentle micro massages to instantly hydrate, smooth and brighten my eyes.

3. Chanel's SUBLIMAGE EYE ESSENTIAL REGENERATING EYE CREAM $200 Why I use it? The ultimate in anti-aging luxury starts with one unique plant - the Vanilla Planifolia - unearthed in the farthest reaches of Madagascar. It helps with puffiness, and dark circles!

4. Bobbi Brown's Creamy Concealer and Corrector $32 and $22 Why I use it? It's the ONLY concealer that has hid my dark circles while still looking hydrated!

5. Chanel's NEW VITALUMIÈRE AQUA ULTRA-LIGHT SKIN PERFECTING MAKEUP SPF 15 $45 Why I use it? I get great coverage, without feeling like I have anything on my skin!

6. MAC's 130 Short Duo Fibre Brush $40 Why I use it? I applied my foundation AND concealer. It was a fuller coverage, yet very clean looking!

7. Mac's Studio Fix Powder $26.50 Why I use it? Great for touch ups, the coverage is intense!

8.Smashbox's HALO HYDRATING PERFECTING BRONZER $39 Why I use it? It's freshly shaved, and the color is super natural.

9. YSL 'Volume Effet Faux Cils' Mascara #3 extreme blue $30 Why I use it? It's so vibrant, and great when I don't want to apply eyeshadow. I still achieve enough drama with only mascara!

10. Estee Lauder's NEW 'Pure Color' Long Lasting Nail Lacquer, wild blue $19 Why I use it? I'm not a huge Lauder fan, but their new nail colors have caught my breath! Love this blue! Ohhh!






Hope you all enjoy my latest favorites!
xoxo
Priscilla

Dates and Dunes

Wednesdays are my favorites days of the week; My day off, and my all day date day with James. Even though it was pretty rainy this Wednesday, we decided to go through with our plans and head up to Santa Cruz anyhow. We had breakfast with some friends at Cafe Brasil. If you ever go there, try the acai berry bowl...it was quite refreshing. After, we all walked around downtown and checked out some local bike shops. While the boys had their fun, us gals chatted it up about traveling, life, and art. Before we headed over to a cute little surf spot, we gave our friends hugs goodbye for some alone time. It was pretty cold, but a good cold. The sky was gloomy, the air was misty, and the streets where as they should be.

Even though it was my day to be free of makeup, I wanted to get dolled up for my "day date". James always appreciates a natural look, so I decided to keep it classy with my LES 4 OMBRES from Chanel in Dunes. I felt the color choice was appropriate since we were going to the beach. I first applied my paint pot in painterly from MAC as my base, and than I precisely contoured the darkest color in my corner. I blended with the pink tone in my crease, while the silver hue was applied on the base of my eye lid. I finished the look off with the cream color under my brow and right inside my eye right by my nose. To define my eyes, I added Bobbi Brown's gel liner in Chocolate Shimmer, using my lash line as my guide.

Enjoy...