New season Balyck jewellery

Let me refresh your memory. Last year we met the beautiful Jessica from Balyck Jewellery, who had a line full of amazing pieces including:

And now I have the first exclusive photos of Balyck's White Lion collection:

 

Be sure to follow @balyckjewellery on Instagram for all purchase queries.

Winter staples from Witchery

A change in season doesn't mean that we have to buy every single warm-piece that we see out there.

If you are on a Winter diet, here are 10 key pieces that you need to add to your wardrobe, all from Witchery.

1) Boots - thigh high and ankle
2) Scarf
3) Fur Vest
4) Leather pants
5) Leather jacket
6) LBD
7) Wide-brimmed hat
8) Jacket
9) Leather skirt
10) Corset

Remember these don't have to be all in black, you can choose greys and maroons which are big for this winter.

The Look For Less

We have all seen our favourite Aussie celebs sporting a Vintage Princess bleeker, but I don't know about you, unless it is carrying the double C logo, I can't justify spending $389 on this bag.

Fear not my fashionistas, our friends at Seed have created a cheaper alternative for only $89.95 - that's a saving of $299.05.

Happy Shopping!

Bleached hair, no worries!

Whether you are blonde all over, balayaged, or foiled - bleach is not kind to our hair.

I have finally found a product that takes the dryness out of coloured hair, and restores the moisture.

Every time I use this product, my hair feels healthy to touch - just like it was when I was a brunette.

I spray this product to wet hair, as soon as I jump at of the shower, and then comb through my hair (it also doubles as a detangler). Make sure that you give the bottle a good shake before using it.

For $25, you can grab this product from your local hairdresser or online.

Big thanks to my hairdresser Dimity from Art Hair Studios for the recommendation.

Valentine's Day for beginners

Valentines Day shopping for your loved one is easy – who would say no to a piece from Chanel?!

But what happens when you have only been dating for a short time? You don’t want to scare her off with anything too big, or too serious - it’s your first Valentines day so you want to keep it cute but simple.

So for you first-timer guys, here is a guide of some V-day gifts, that won’t have her running for the hills (Girls, feel free to forward this onto your other half).

Nothing says Be My Valentine more than a set of Country Road photo frames. Keep it cool by buying her the frames, and letting her decide what photos to put in there. Or if you want to be extra cheesy, pop some photos of some cool iPhone snaps that you have taken together (the photos don't need to all be you and her, remember when you went for that walk to the beach and you took that cool pic of the sunset? Things like that are all cute memories, without being too full-on). RRP $39.95.

Fact: Every girl has a soft-spot for Peter Alexander. Guys, forget about any type of raunchy lingerie and opt for some patterns or colourful two-piece pj set. Best thing about it is that the fabulous staff at PA, will do all the wrapping for you!

Planning a night away? Or is your girl always crashing at your place? Pick up an uber cute over night bag from Mimco for $99.95.

Haven't been going out too long, but still want to get her something? It's all about Bombardier Designs candles. With 10 fragrances to choose from (my pick is the French Vanilla) you are bound to win some brownie points. RRP $34.95

And lastly, for the guys who just can't resist and want to go that extra mile with jewellery. Firstly, absolutely no diamonds or engraving. This edgy ring from Baby Anything, isn't too lovey dovey as the heart shape is entwined with a peace sign (which is 100% on trend). This hand-made, sterling silver baby will only set you back $86.

With these 5 gifts all under $100, and nothing too OTT, you will be sure to win over her heart...in well...a heart beat....


Good luck!

Jess Lewis' secret weapon revealed (BONUS offer for JSP Styling readers)

Jess Lewis has a secret. Being a hairdresser, a wife, and an expectant mother is just not enough for this blonde bombshell, Jess has launched her very own hair treatment.
For all of us out there crazily following Jess on Instagram, just waiting to see her beautifully blended balayage babes, Jess is now allowing the rest of the world to get a piece of her.
Want Jess Lewis’ hair? Well Hair&Me is just the product for you.

Unlike most hair products Hair&Me is made from 100% organically certified ingredients which include virgin coconut oil, sweet almond oil, jojoba oil and macadamia oil.
Not only does this product repair, moisturise and strengthen both the hair and scalp, it also:
• Helps prevent breakage and split ends
• Nourishes and protects
• Helps reduce blowdrying time by 30-50%.
• Helps control frizz
• Stimulates hair growth (yes ladies, hair growth!!)
• Hydrates your hair working from the inside out

Jess’ number one priority for all her clients is their hair-care, so creating a product where she knew each ingredient, and understood how each ingredient worked, was a no brainer.

Vegan-friendly, this product can be used on hair once-to-twice a week (depending on your hair type and condition), and only takes 30-45 minutes to process on damp hair.
Because Hair&Me is 100% organic, this product can even be left in the hair overnight and be rinsed out the next morning.
Hair&Me which I am officially dubbing Jess’ “secret weapon” (I am hoping that I look like Jess after my treatment!) can produce results after one-to-five treatments depending on the current state of your hair.

The best thing about this product, is that you can do it all from the comfort of your own home with the product being delivered to your door (and a bonus free delivery for all Australian orders).
For only $19.95 you get a Hair&Me sachet which lasts approximately 2-4 uses (depending on your hair length and thickness), and for an extra $1 you can receive a Hair&Me disposable shower cap.
Hair&Me also deliver internationally for a small price.


                                           **EXCLUSIVE OFFER**
Like this couldn’t get any better, Hair&Me are offering JSP Styling readers a discount at the checkout when using the promo code ‘JSPBLOG’.

           Click here to purchase the secret weapon now!
 

Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for a Hair&Me rejuvenating mist spray to be released later this year.
For more information visit www.hairandme.com.au and if you are not already, follow Jess on Instagram @hairbyjesslewis AND @hairandme_

Season launch: David Jones

In the rivalry between Australian department store giants, David Jones took a leap forward from Myer during their new season launch this week.

Not only did DJ's beat Myer with a launch date, DJ's had the hottest Australian A-listers take front row of their enchanted forest themed runway; exhibits A and B - Rachael Finch (who I might just add popped out a child a few months ago...not that you can tell) dressed in Lover and Lara Bingle in Dion Lee (w-o-w).

Through the forest emerged an array of trends including:

Prints

Blacks

Neutrals

And peek-a-boo dresses with front splits (my favourite look of the night)

The bar has been set - Myer's turn to show Australian fashion-lovers what they've got. Bring it!

Stop! Grammy time

We love a good trend on a red carpet, and the 2014 Grammy's were no different.

Our two favourite looks included the white lace, worn by both Beyonce and Paris Hilton (any ideas why she was at the Grammy's? Oh that's right she's a "DJ" now), and textured gold by Mrs. John Legend (who is sporting Aussie designer Johanna Johnson) and Taylor Swift.

Two different trends, but both worthy of a spin on the music award red carpet.

What did you think of this trend? Was it TMI or too disco ball for you? Or was it just right? Tell me what you think on Instagram @jspstyling

Look for Less

Premiering at the launch of JBronze last year, this little Aje number sent social media into melt down.

With a price tag of $490 it was only time before a cheaper alternative got on my radar.

Introducing the Desire Lines Dress from Bardot for only $99.95.

Your bank account is going to love me for it...all $390.05

Nothing saggy about the SAG awards

I have finally worked out what the 'S' in SAG stands for...Sofia Vergara.

Sofia stole the show in her silver sparkly number (styled by my fave, Rachel Zoe).

The dress showed off her figure (a little unlike the Golden Globes), the long wavy hair, and that big chunky neck were all ticks on my fashion police checklist.

What did you think?

Who Magazine

I am very excited to share a little post that I did for Who magazine. Although a little edited by Who, still very exciting!

 

This issue goes on sale on January 27, and can be purchased from all good newsagencies.

What I wore

Melbourne has really turned ON the weather this week. From a Summer filled with rain, wind and freezing cold temperatures; with the first glimpse of sun I saw I decided it's time to bring on the cooler clothes (mind you, the warm weather occurs as soon as everyone is back to work and finished their holidays).

Top - Kookai leather peplum top
Shorts - Supre high-waisted satin shorts
Shoes - Sportsgirl black wedge
Clutch - Louis Vuitton Vivienne clutch
Watch - Chanel J12 black
Bracelets - Cartier Love Bangle in white gold
                  Hermes enamel bangle in black and silver

For those who have emailed and asked about my hair, I have been gradually going lighter in order to keep my hair healthy and long. At the moment I am in the balayage stage (after 2 goes of colouring my hair). Next week I have my 3rd appointment (with 6-8 weeks between each colouring), to start colouring the roots. I have had no breakage so far (yay!). The look I have at the moment is easy to maintain, as there is no colour on my roots and therefore no constant regrowth. Surprisingly the blonde has taken well to the coloured black hair I was sporting before. No orange/brassiness.

To get the curl I have been trialling a few new products, as well as some oldies:
John Frieda Frizz-Ease Defeat Protective Styling Spray - To be used before you dry off your hair
Eleven Australia Miracle Hair Treatment - To be used on each section before you use your curling wand; I find this gives the curl extra gripCurling Wand - For easy, big waves
Fudge Sea Salt Spray - To be used for extra hold (note: this can make the curl a little crisp)Paddle brush - To be used to brush out the curl (for a less-Bridesmaid effect), or use your fingers
Loreal Elnett Satin - Diamond hold and shine spray - To be used to maintain the curls shape (if the Real House Wives of Beverly Hills can use this, so can we!). No sticky residue, horrible spray, or marks left on the hair.
Schwarzkopf Volumising Powder - To be used on the roots, to add volume to the hair

First red carpet of 2014 - The Golden Globes

2014 has just rolled in (13 days to be exact), and just like that the US is straight into the awards season.

The Golden Globes host America's finest actors, as well as the C-grade reality TV stars who managed to sneak past security.

This year we see a colour palette that was more dull than usual (only a handful of powerful colour pops made an appearance), longer sleeves came out to play, and no matter your size tighter dresses were left, right and centre.


If you missed the red carpet because your boss has been looking over your shoulder the whole morning, than fear not, here is a rundown of what I like to call the 'Golden Globes Battle'.

In the first corner, the 'Battle of the Black & Aqua'

Uh oh, some from the Vergara/Roberts styling camp have spilled their colour pallette for the evening. Emma Roberts has taken the more subtle approach to the aqua trend, whereas Vergara has gone all out in her Lorraine Schwartz neck. I think the black and aqua colour combo is genius for an event like this (which is traditionally crystal diamonds paired with a black dress). Vergara obviously wanted the carpet to stop when she arrived, with a dress that size! Although, I would have marked her higher up the ranks if the dress had slightly less breadth, and perhaps a straighter hemline (I'm getting flashbacks of the ends of my curtains at my old house) - but hey, Sofia still wins this battle hands down (or is that body down?)

In the second corner, the 'Battle of the Neutrals'

If you don't know who Emilia Clarke and Melissa Fumero are, then you are in good company. These not-so familiar faces definitely wanted to be recognised in their sea of neutral. We are loving both necklines of these dresses, however Emilia (left for those still like me don't know who she is...guess I should start watching some more TV), has that little extra something. Whether it is the volume in the torso (a daring move, because on some body types can accentuate in a not-so flattering way), or the split down the front, this dress screams couture a little louder than Melissa's.


In the third corner the 'Battle of the Aussie pride'

Ding-ding! Australians are competitive, so when you put up-and-rising actress Margot Robbie (who I accessorised for the Logie Awards a few years ago...yes, let me pick that name right up) against Catt Sadler, who although is not Australian, is dressed in one of Australia's favourite designers Paolo Sebastian, you have one true blue battle. Between Margot's thigh-high split, and Catt's perfectly embroidered sleeves, we have to give this round to Paolo Sebastian. Well done Catt!


And in the fourth corner the 'Battle of the Sequins'

What do you get when you step onto the red carpet wearing a very similar dress to Camilla Alves (wife of Matthew McConaghey) - a very brave woman, that's who. Both women received the long-sleeve memo, check, and are both wearing sequins, in this very tight-I-can-see-what-you-had-for-breakfast dress. But Alves has a hot body, so there is no need to cover it up, even if it is winter in America. This round goes to Olivia Wilde, who until she turns side-on you don't even realise is pregnant (lucky lady!). The soft ombre waves, the long clutch, the I'm-not-trying-to-hide-that-I'm-pregnant-in-metres-and-metres-of-fabric paid off!

 
But there can only be one winner, and this goes to the most improved, host Amy Poehler. Amy is not known for being high on a red-carpet list, but today, I really have to give it to her. Although simple, I love the cut of this dress - very flattering, and a little different with the shape of the left shoulder. I definitely think the patent belt could have been optional (as in an option to leave back at home Amy..), although her stylist wanted to bring to our attention Amy's toned tummy with that peek-a-boo hole. I guess, if we looked like that, at Amy's age, we'd want everyone to see our toned tum too.

What did you think of the red carpet? Who were your favourites? Tell me on Instagram @jspstyling

5 minutes with: Victoria Curtis from Curtis Collection

Today's 5 minutes is with none other than the gorgeous, super talented Victoria Curtis.

Victoria is the mastermind behind the brand 'Curtis Collection'. Victoria developed every aspect of the collection from the colours, the ingredients, the names, the descriptions, and even the packaging.

Curtis Collection is a premium brand that offers luxury cosmetics for the everyday woman. The collection was designed for all women, at any age, and to suit any lifestyle.

The brand originated in 2012 with an online store, branched out into selected stockists in Australia, and now reaches the beauties in New Zealand.

Curtis Collection has been seen on red carpets (Dally M awards), fashion week (Rachel Gilbert's show), celebrities such as Jesinta Campbell and Sophie Falkiner, and adored by one of Australia's renowned make-up artist Max Made.

To find out more about this affordable luxury brand, we caught up with Victoria Curtis.

I would describe my style as 
Black, Classic, Feminine.

I can't leave the house without my
Curtis Collection Invisible Blotting Powder - my secret to flawless looking makeup all day long, and my Brow Definer - it's all about the brows!

If I could raid one celebs wardrobe it would be
Olivia Palermo for sure! Every piece is divine.

If I could only use one make-up item for a day it would be
My Curtis Collection Mineral Liquid Powder Foundation! It conceals, protects, nourishes and hydrates for hours! It is also designed to deflect light away from any flaws in the skin, giving the illusion of an airbrushed complexion!

The best beauty advice I can give is
-Always use a good foundation!! I encourage women to have a proper skin consultation in order to find the foundation formula and finish that is suitable to their skin and also to their lifestyle. Our Mineral foundation formulas are loaded with antioxidants and nourishing vitamins, which are designed to act as an extension of your skin care routine. 
-By choosing the right mineral foundation, women can change the way their complexion appears overnight!

The biggest beauty faux pas is

Not wearing a primer! It is a MUST!! 

False lashes or eyelash extensions? 
False individual lashes every time.

The one celebrity I would love to use Curtis Collection products is

Blake Lively - I love her classic, elegant style and that fact that she is always naturally glowing.

The best thing about having my own makeup line is 

Giving women the confidence to look and feel amazing about themselves every single day, and of course showing them how to get the Curtis Collection Signature Glow!

Can you give us a sneak peak into what is in store for Curtis Collection in 2014?

Following the success of our runway partnerships with the likes of Carla Zampatti and Rachel Gilbert this past year, we are very excited to work along side

some of Australia's leading designers again in 2014! 2013 also saw Curtis Collection become an international brand with our recent expansion into New Zealand - a wonderful milestone. We plan to grow both the Australian and NZ market this year in order to make our products accessible to as many women as possible. We can't wait to see what the year will hold and look forward to sharing all of our exciting events with you via social media!

To 'get your V on' and add the Curtis Collection signature glow to your make-up bag, head to the website, and be sure to follow Victoria on Instagram @curtiscollection

5 minutes with: Jess Lewis from Hair by Jess Lewis

Dubbed the Queen of Balayage, Jess Lewis is climbing the ranks of top hairdressers in Melbourne.

With clients traveling interstate to see her, a waiting list to book in an appointment, and a Brownlow red-carpet under her belt - Jess Lewis is one to watch out for.

I spent 5 minutes with Jess to find out her tips, tricks and what the next big trends in hair will be.

What is the best part of your job?

Having the ability to create a more beautiful you. Being able to change how someone can feel about themselves is one of the most rewarding feelings. That's why I started my before and after photographs on Instagram, because it showed clients how much colour and styling can change them.

What hair products can you not live without?

My Moroccan oil - my absolute favourite! Less is more with this oil, it may be expensive but it lasts forever. I use it after the hair is washed, and towel dryed (it can also be used on the hair after it's dryed and styled).

If you could give anyone in the public eye a hair makeover, who would it be?

Lara Bingle for sure! She is such an inspiration to so many girls, so to have the chance to do the hair of someone like that would be incredible. Not that it would be hard to make her look amazing - she has the face and skin colouring to pull of so many different styles and colours; so it would be forever new and exciting!

Straight or curls?

I'd have to say curls. A lot of my clients come to me for my curls, and every time I do them the clients feel so beautiful! They are so soft and give the client that bit of extra glam.

 

When it comes to curls - GHD or curling wand?

GHD 100%. I find you can achieve such a soft curl with the GHD, and also have so much more control with how you want your curls to sit.

If you could have any celeb as your client who would it be?

Beyoncé - she has such an amazing head of hair, which I seriously envy.

What is the biggest hair myth you hear from your clients?

Oh there are so many I could go on forever! Here are a couple:

Some think that you shouldn't wash your hair for days before coming in for your colour appointment, because the colour will soak better and last longer - this is NOT true at all.

Another favourite, I have had clients thinking is if they brush their hair 100 times a day it'll make it healthier and shiner - again, NOT true.

 

Can you give us some tips on how to create the perfect wave?
This is a hard one - as doing your own curls/waves is actually really hard. I find that the less product I use the better and softer the waves are, and they hold a lot better. Brushing them out once you have done them all, is also great; it makes them a lot softer and surprisingly last a lot longer.

What is your hair prediction for 2014?

I think ombré is still staying strong this year as a lot of people love the colour, and love the fact they don't have to get their colour done as often. Another colour for 2014 is the sandy deeper blondes - a lot more clients are loving being lighter but slightly deeper. For cuts - long is in. 2012 and 2013 was all about the Lara Bingle longer bob, but now longer is coming back.


So there you have it - grab your GHD, Morrocan oil, and start growing those locks of yours!
To see Jess' hair transformations, or to book an appointment with Jess be sure to follow her on Instragram @hairbyjesslewis

How to survive post-Christmas sales

Each year we spend hundreds of dollars in the lead up to Christmas, to buy our family and friends gifts; only to know that on Boxing Day everything you have just bought will be heavily reduced...

For those who are brave enough to venture out to post Christmas sales, here is a guide to survival.

• Head to the shops early - go to bed early the night before, set your alarm clock - and absolutely no snooze button!
  
• Wear comfy shoes - a lot of walking will be involved, whether this in the shopping centre or from the carpark and back. Leave the stilettos at home.
  
• Clothing - wear light clothing, with all the people in the shopping centres you can get overwhelmed and overheated (at all costs you don't want to be THAT person who faints in the centre, and is shown on the news across every television station). Wear shoes that can slip off easily, when you are trying on clothes the last thing you want to do is spend time buckling and unbuckling shoes.
  
• Hands-free bag - forget holding your wallet and phone, today is the day you need your hands more than ever. Use a bag that crosses over your body, and throw in a drink bottle to stay hydrated.
  
• Check online the night before - late Christmas Eve all your favourite retailers advertise their sales on their websites. Check out their online shop, and make a list of the stores you want to go to (this way you won't forget any).
• If you are driving, and you see a parking take it - even if you think you may find one closer, just stick to the first parking you see (trust me on that one).
  
• If you can, avoid driving - get dropped off by a friend or family member. This will save time from the nightmare that is the carpark - especially if you don't plan to be at the shops as soon as they open.
  
• Try things on - the changing rooms are there for a reason! Most stores do not exchange on sale items, so try on clothes and shoes so that you do not spend money on things that don't fit.

Today's experience:
Chadstone (Melbourne's fashion capital) opened at 7am. Now when the shops say open at 7am, they neglect to mention the queues that start at 6am.
I set my alarm clock at 6am, left the house at 6.20am, and got to the shops at 6.45am (seems everyone in Melbourne had the same idea - no sleep ins here). I wore a maxi, and my Senso-style boots with a cross-over Mimco bag to keep my hands free (to hold the abundance of clothes and hangers I accumulated).
I had done my research the night before, and took a screenshot on my iPhone of all the items that were on sale, that interested me, so that I could stay on track.
I also checked the Facebook status, and Instagram pictures of my favourite stores (eg. Kookai, White Suede, Sportsgirl) to see what kind of sales they would be having. Once I saw that Kookai had 50% off selected items, I knew this would be my first stop. This is because Kookai rarely do sales, so when there is a sale every fashionista in the state would be there (and I definitely wasn't wrong).
I had finished my shopping by 9am (incredible, right?), before I headed to a quieter strip of shops for some more bargains.
I ended up with bags and bags full of Kookai items, as well as from other stores.
What you will notice, is that as each rack empties, the staff will replenish - so you need to keep checking in with the stores. Just because you scored a bargain today, doesn't mean that there aren't new bargains to be had tomorrow (so if anyone is looking for me for the next few mornings, you know where I will be...)
My biggest tip for when you are in a store is even if you think an item is OK (don't love it, don't hate it), hold it in your hands (tight, and don't let it go...). Because as soon as you put that baby down, some other person is going to come along and snap it up...usually just as you change your mind and decide you want it.

                               
                                                Good luck and Happy Shopping!

12 days of Christmas: Day 12

Today we come to a close on the '12 days of Christmas', and we are ending with a BANG!
This post is a beauty bonanza. From my favourite looks, to my favourite products, to my number one product that you must add to your list; I'm covering it all.

Eye-lash curler
Easy to use, compact, and recommended by top make-up artists such as (my fave) Chantelle Baker. Using 3 squeezes (outer, mid and inner) this super easy tool gives you the perfect curl. I prefer this curler, to the bigger eye lash curlers, as it picks up the spots that the bigger tools miss. Note: Curl the lashes prior to applying mascara.

New Generation Eyelash 'S' Curler
RRP $24
Shu Uemura
David Jones

Mascara 
It has taken hundreds of different types of mascaras to get here, but I've finally done it. An inexpensive lash curling, volumising and lengthening mascara.

Origins - GinZing
RRP $26

Brushes that I recommend for this products:
Body Shop - Lash Comb
(RRP $14.95)

The comb (brush facing upwards) is particularly useful for detangling the bottom lashes. EyelinerForget the hype around the felt tip eye liners, it is gel liners all the way. Ensure you close the lid securely after each use to ensure the product does not dry out.


Napoleon Perdis - China Doll Gel Eyeliner (Equinox)
RRP $35

Perfect for a cat eye effect, or to rim your upper lash line to make your eyes pop. Depending on how confident you are with your gel application I have chosen 2 brushes below (smaller - for the pro's, and an angled for the beginners).

MAC Cosmetics - Eye Kohl (Feline)
RRP $32

Note: the Eye Kohl is very smudgy, and hence the third brush is perfect to use with this pencil.

Brushes that i recommend for these products:
Napoleon Perdis - 2H Fine Line Sable Brush
RRP $25
Napoleon Perdis - 5A Precision Angle Sable Brush
RRP $25
Sigma Beauty - E30 Pencil Brush
RRP $12

Setting powder 
This product is one of those ones that I absolutely cannot live without. I use this under my eyes (applying with a cue-tip) when I am using eyeliner, mascara, eyeshadows or all of the above. Your eye makeup is guaranteed not to budge when using this product.

Clinique - Blended Face Powder (03 Transparency)
RRP $50

When it comes to your face, set your foundation with this product to maximise longevity.

MAC Mineralise Skin Finish - Light
RRP $47

Brush that I recommend for this product:
Sigma Beauty - F30 Large Powder
RRP $24

Concealer 
The perfect disguise for any blemish is this concealer. Apply with your fingertips to the required areas, and like magic see those spots and redness disappear.

Lancome - Effacernes Longue Tenure
RRP $53

Primer
It's true what they say, it's a crime not to prime. And to stop you from being a fashion criminal, here is my fave primer.

Napoleon Perdis - Auto Pilot Pre-Foundation Skin Primer
RRP $59

This formula has a nice fresh smell, is quite thin (thick primers are just too heavy on the skin), and glides on easily with hand application. Ensure to prime prior to putting on your foundation, to stop the product from moving.

Foundation 
This light formula is longlasting, gives you a dewy finish, and can give you full coverage (depending on how much you build into your skin). The thing I like about this foundation (compared to MAC foundations) is that it does not sink into any of your lines (forehead, eyes) to give you that aged look.

Clinique - Superbalanced Makeup (03 Ivory)

RRP $50

Brushes that I recommend for this product:
Real Techniques - Buffing Brush
RRP $45 (Purchased in a set of 4 - all of which will be featured in this post)

Real Techniques - Pointed Foundation Brush 
RRP $45 (Included in the set of 4 as per above)
To be used for detailing around the eyes, nose, and mouth

Bronzer 
One of the most important make-up products in my opinion; especially for days where you are not wearing foundation is the bronzer.

Recommended for when you have a tan (whether real/fake)
Model Co. Glow Summer Bronze
RRP $28

Perfect for every day, and gives a natural finish.

MAC Mineralise Skin Finish - Medium Plus
RRP $47

Brushes that I recommend for these products:
Sigma Beauty - F10 Powder/Blush
RRP $21
Real Techniques - Powder Brush
RRP $10 (This is the only RT brush that was not featured in the 4-pack collection)

 
Blush 
I always get so many compliments when using this blush! Don't let the look of it fool you, there is no shimmer to be seen when applying.

MAC Mineralise Blush - Dainty
RRP $43

For a cheaper alternative, and equally as good (bonus that it comes with a mirror, for those who travel), try this powder.

Model Co. Blush Cheek Powder - Amaretto Sunset
RRP $18
(Note: the packaging of this product has recently changed)

Brush that I recommend for these products:
Real Techniques - Contour Brush
RRP $45 (Included in the set of 4 mentioned under the 'Foundation' category)

 
Eyebrow 
Glides on, does not look too heavy, and will match the majority of peoples eye brow colour; use this pencil to fill in the gaps in your brow, and give definition in form of an arch. The perfect MUA trick!

MAC Cosmetics - Lingering
RRP $30

Brushes that I recommend for this products:
Sigma Beauty - E80 Brown and Lash (otherwise referred to as a 'Spoolie')
RRP $12

Use the Spoolie to even out the application, especially in areas where you have been a little heavy-handed.

Eyeshadows:
When it comes to eyeshadows, you cannot (and I mean canNOT) go past the highly pigmented, longlasting MAC cosmetics. Here are my top 6 eyeshadow colours to add to your palette.

Greys:
Electra (this is perfect for the inner corner of your eye)
Knight Divine

Browns:
Satin Taupe
Mystery

Darks:
Nehru
Carbon (this is good to use in conjunction with Nehru, as I do not find Carbon as black as I thought it would've been)

Each of these retail for $33. I have had mine for months, and I still cannot see the bottom of the pans, so definitely money well spent.

Brushes that i recommend for these products:For blending
Sigma Beauty - E40 Tapered Blending
RRP $14
For shading the eyelid
Sigma Beauty - E55 Eye Shading
RRP $12
For the crease/socket
Sigma Beauty - F70 Concealer
RRP $12
For the inner corner
Real Techniques - Detailer Brush
RRP $45 (The fourth brush Included in the set of 4)

If you choose to only buy 2 of these brushes - you will definitely need the blending brush, and the shading brush.

Highlighter 
Perfect for the tops of your cheek bones, and easy to use with finger application.


MAC Lustre Drops - Pink Rebel 
RRP $40

To highlight facial features, or to slim down (frequently referred to as a 'cheap nose job'), add this baby to your collection.

MAC Mineralise Skin Finish - Soft and Gentle
RRP $47

Brushes that i recommend for this product:
For cheekbones
Sigma F40 Angled brush
RRP $19
For nose area (sides and down the middle)
Sigma F60 Foundation brush
RRP $18

Contour 
Celebs like Jennifer Stano (pictured below) have really brought the art of contouring to get that chiseled cheek bone look, to our attention. Use these products to get Jen's definition.


MAC Bronzing Powder - Matte Bronze
RRP $39

Ideal for travelers, or for those wanting to save a few bucks - this trio (highlight, blush and contour) is sure to interest you.

Napoleon Perdis - Ultimate Contour Palette
RRP $60

Brush that I recommend for these products:
Sigma Beauty - F35 Tapered Highlighter
$21

Lipgloss
I have this lipgloss in every one of my purses. I highly recommend you use this on top of a lipstick (whether it is a nude shade/pink), so that it does not show the imperfections in your lips. This has a decent staying power, and is not as tacky as other lipglosses I have tried. I have gone through quite a few bottles of these. Note: no lipbrushes are needed, just use the doe-foot applicator.

MAC Cremesheen Glass - Fashion Scoop
RRP $43

Lipstick 
Forget spending big bucks on lipsticks, I have discovered these very long-lasting, easy to use, and full coverage beauties that can be purchased from any drugstore.


Don't want to go too dark and mature, this pinky/red lipstick will have you standing out of the crowd for all the right reasons. Oh and you can totally forget about getting this all over your teeth - these Revlon lipsticks are truly magical.
Revlon - 440 Cherries in the Snow
RRP $21.95

Another reason for not wanting to spend too much money on a lipstick, is that if the colour is only seasonal (just like our purple shades for 2013) there is no point spending lots of money on a product that you may only use a handful of times. Have fun with this not too dark, just right violet.

Revlon - 027 Violet Frenzy
RRP $21.95

Even cheaper, with a silky smooth application this Model Co. nude is a keeper.

Model Co. Party Proof Lipstick - Nearly Nude
$16.95

I definitely find these cheaper lipsticks to be more long-lasting, and have better staying power than any of the MAC lipsticks I own. Again, no lipbrushes required for these just use them straight from the dispenser.

Make-up remover
Throw away your face wipes, and say goodbye to any left over residue when removing your make-up. I have discovered, the world's most thorough make-up remover by Shu Uemura.
Gentle on the skin, perfect for all skin types, non-fragrant, and easy to use. This Ultim8 Cleansing oil retails for $56, and is available from David Jones.

Storage
For eyeshadows in particular (can be used for some blushes and bronzers - especially MAC), using a palette is a much more convenient way to store your products. It is perfect for travelling, is slim-line, and gives you more of a chance to use each shade.
Once you depot (Youtube have plenty of tutorials on how to depot your makeup), use the product sticker (so you know which shade your are using), on the magnet bottom of the pans. Once you have done this, you are ready to stick these into your palette.

Z-Palette
Large:
$20 (USD)

Small:
RRP $16

Introduced to us by Kim Kardashian, this jumbo storage will have your make-up station looking neater than ever. Storing all your makeup products (including your brushes!), you will never lose a piece of your make-up collection again. It is also a perfect way to remember what make-up you actually have, as each drawer is clear. As you will have this storage for forever, this is a great investment piece.

Make-up cube
RRP $199

 

You may be able to find a slightly cheaper version of the cube on Ebay.

Now, this brings me to my number one product, for my final day of the '12 days of Christmas'. If you only buy one product after reading this post, this is the one you NEED.
Number one goes to the MAC Paint Pots. If you haven't heard of a paint pot, it acts as a primer to the eye lids. It allows the eyeshadows to stick to the eyelid, with no movement whatsoever. And when I say no movement, I mean you could go to sleep, and wake up the next morning with your eye make-up still looking perfect (I have tested this for you, that's how I know...shh don't tell any MUA). Now there are many colours to choose from whether you use Tailor Grey under your Electra/Knight Divine, Groundwork under your Satin Taupe and Mystery, or Black Ground under your Nehru and Carbon - but the one colour you need is Painterly.
Unlike the other 3 paint pots that I have just mentioned Painterly is a neutral colour. You can use this under any eyeshadow, for a blank canvas. Although there are other neutral colours (such as Soft Ochre), it is definitely the Painterly that you need to add to your collection .
This universal colour not only intensifies the shadow colour, and prolongs the eye colour, it also stops your shadows from creasing. Retailing for $35, this paint pot is easy to use - either with the Sigma Beauty E55 brush (mentioned above), or with your finger.
This is one product that you cannot miss out on.

I hope this post saves you from wasting money on products that are just too hyped up about, but have no real value to your make-up collection. If you choose to buy any of these products, let me know your thoughts on them on Instagram @jspstyling

To everyone that reads my blog, subscribes, and checks out my Instagram, I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a fashionable New Year. I am looking forward to more styling to come with you in 2014!

JSP xx





 
Most images courtesy of Google