Flawless For Fall.

In makeup the hottest trends for fall include a flawless face, beautiful eyes and a well defined lip.

On the runway, lips stood out in shades of brown.  Stylist’s were using hues in the brown family, and then finishing the lips off with a beige or copper eye shadow for a metallic finish.  For most of us beautiful reds, crimsons and orange red lipsticks are taking center stage and fit into our comfort zone.   If your complexion is medium to dark, go for a cherry red.  Fair complexions, can use orange-reds.  I always like to wear a little lighter shade for daytime.

I’ve noticed that many makeup artists are using different powders on the face in a myriad of ways.  They are using eye shadows, bronzers, and highlighters interchangeably, and not just for their intended use in one specific area.  For instance, bronzer isn’t just used for definition, but can be used as eye shadow in the crease of your lid.  A golden brown eye color is chic for daytime, and you may add blue, black and silver shadow for a more dramatic look in the evening.  On a recent photo shoot, a makeup artist, used highlighter in my t-zone which is the area straight from my forehead down my nose to my chin and then across my cheeks at the top of my blush. This added a glow to my makeup. I enjoyed this fresh approach to highlighter, because I have always used highlighter on my eyelids.

An important lesson I’ve discovered is that less is more.  As we age, I believe we have the tendency to add more makeup to cover certain imperfections.  It may sound contradictory, but we really need to use less makeup and focus on great skin care.

Lisa Wiles, a fabulous makeup artist at Halls, gave me direction on getting my skin ready for fall and the cooler months. “I suggest exfoliating your face & body 2-3 times a week, and then slathering on a hydrating face and body cream. A great one for the face is Laura Mercier’s Face Polish. The granules are round, not star shaped so they don’t irritate your skin.  For the body, you might try Laura Mercier’s Body scrub which comes in yummy flavors like: Creme Brulee, Almond Coconut, Pistachio & Fig.”  I found another great body product in Clarin’s “Smoothing Body Scrub”.  You can make your own facial and body scrub with ingredients in your cupboard. Try 2 tsp. of ground oatmeal, 1 tsp. baking soda and add water as needed to make a desired paste.  Rub in a circular motion and then rinse.  The goal is to remove dead skin gently, while uncovering your radiant, healthy skin.  Be sure to apply your favorite moisturizer.

When your skin is healthy, you have a perfect canvas in which to add makeup.  This fall keep in mind the chic trends encompassing a flawless face, beautiful eyes and a defined lip.  When you have the basics covered, it’s easy to relax and let your soul shine!

For more makeup and modeling tips go to n2modeling.com to see professionals in action!

Summer Simplicity

With temperatures rising, it can be a challenge to keep your makeup and hair looking fresh.   I’ve modeled on many photo shoots in the middle of summer, wearing winter clothing and trying hard to look crisp and cool.  I’ve been fortunate to pick up some helpful tips from stylists all over the country.

Let’s start with some cool options for hair. This summer the ponytail ruled the catwalk from low slung and casual to making a statement with sectioned styles.   You may want to try pulling your hair straight back from your hairline in a tight pony.  It’s easy to do and you get an instant face lift in the process.  Add a wrap around your ponytail for a 90’s inspired look.  A low slung ponytail or bun is perfect for the office.  During a sporting event try a mid-height pony.  Other varieties include braids and twists.  For a high fashion look the traditional updo is reenergized with a focus on pretty hair bands and accessories.   To make a statement, the wet look is in, just add a touch of gel and go for a high shine.

For short hair a side part is chic and adds sophistication to any style.  Pretty head bands are also the rage.  They look great and are useful for keeping your hair out of your face.

With hair being pulled back from the face, the focus will be directed to your skin.  Here are some simple and unique makeup tips that really work well in the heat.

1) Start with a good moisturizer and foundation.  I used to apply makeup with my fingertips until a makeup artist showed me how smooth my skin could look by using a brush to apply my foundation.

2) Use a primer before applying eye shadow.  This will keep your eye shadow and liner where it is supposed to be, even in the heat.

3) Apply all of your eye makeup before using concealer under your eye.  If you get loose powder or mascara under your eye, you may then use a swab to remove the flakes.  You won’t have to reapply your concealer.

4) Use blotting papers to absorb excess oil.  This is a lifesaver, because most of us use powder to get rid of shine especially when taking photos.  If too much powder is layered on, it can look cakey and make wrinkles more defined.  Blotting papers work miracles .

These beauty tips will pay off for any outdoor activity whether you are working, playing tennis or golf, or just socializing at an outdoor café.  Be in the moment and enjoy the warm weather!

For more modeling and beauty tips from experts in the business go to n2modeling.com.

Steppin’ out in shades of Spring!

It’s that time of year to let your tootsies out!  If you’re like me, I don’t pay much attention to my feet during the winter months unless it’s a requirement for a modeling job.  A pedicure is a must for Spring.  I like to have a professional pedi to get me started and then I can maintain with my pedi egg, great moisturizer and metallic polish.  This Spring the pendulum has swung in the opposite direction from an excess of neon, shocking color to the opposite spectrum.  The emphasis at least for fingernails is on pretty, wearable colors with nude leading the pack and shades of cream, beige, pale pink and a few metallic accents in the running. This bodes well for me as I must always wear nude or a French manicure for modeling jobs.  For toes you can still make a bright statement, but you may want to stick with classic reds, chic corals or muted yellows.  On my toes, I like to mix in a little metallic with a hint of gold, bronze or silver.  I find it to be flattering and still a contrast with this season’s bright printed clothing and accessories.

Now let’s move on to a rebirth of color for your makeup.   I’ve noticed that eye color is emerging toward a gray/blue shade for any occasion, and by adding a shimmery version you can dress it up. Pastel eye color from the 80’s is making a comeback showing up in the way of blending blue, purple, and a hint of teal.  The freshest looks are double edged, because the bold colors and strong dramatic eye shadow and liner are popular. However, at the other end of the spectrum we see more of a nude look with less liner and a choice of gold or bronze eye shadow and an overall glowing Midas touch including bronzers for radiant skin.

On a recent photo shoot, I learned that the trend for eyes and lips is to play off one another.  For instance, if you have a brighter eye then you should wear a nude lip.  With an earthy eye you could wear a classic red or vibrant lip.  I don’t always follow the “rules” of the season, because a lot of it depends on your skin color, hair color and what looks best on you!  It is fun to try the new trends, and then adjust to the fad to make it your own.

Don’t forget about your other body parts that are being exposed in the warmer months. Let’s get prepared for sleeveless tops, dresses, and shorter skirts.  Now is the time to start a new workout regimen, especially if you have let it go during the winter months.  You’ll not only look better, but more importantly you’ll feel better and more refreshed for Spring!

Go to n2modeling.com to download videos and see professional models, photographer’s, stylists, casting directors and agents in action.

Exotic beauty

At this time of the year it’s easy to fantasize about getting away on an exotic vacation. However, even if you can’t get away, you can look and feel exotic while pampering yourself at the same time.

It’s been rumored that a new trend for many top celebrities is going back to the past and following ancient beauty secrets from Cleopatra, Queen of the Nile, and the beautiful ancient Egyptians.  Of course, the stars are spending $1000’s on milk baths and Dead Sea salt scrubs, but you can replicate these therapeutic spa treatments in your own home.

You might start with a simple milk bath using whole milk or milk powder and adding some honey.  Goat’s milk is also a good choice as it contains a capric and caprylic triglyceride which helps to moisturize.  This is very beneficial because your skin can be so dry during the winter months.

Sea salts, especially from the Dead Sea, were prized.  A great body scrub includes one part honey, one part natron (baking soda in today’s jargon), and one part Lower Egyptian salt (bath salts or sea salts).  You should grind to a paste.  For a beautiful scent, try a drop of frankincense and myrrh.  Frankincense is a key ingredient in various anti wrinkle solutions. Rub the paste onto your body, sit for a few minutes, and relax or meditate, then rinse.

As far as looking sexy and exotic, bold eyeliner is back! Again we reference Cleopatra and her almond shaped black kohl-lined eyes, a trademark that transcends many eras. The trend is very popular today and can be achieved by simply using a black kohl eyeliner pencil.  If you add some smoky eye shadow, you have a hot look for any evening soiree. You can even try green eye shadow. Green malachite was popular for eye lids in Cleopatra’s time.  We see a resurgence of green eye shadow. It is featured on the popular show Pan Am which is a reflection of pop culture from the 60’s. Although the application is lighter, the green eye-shadow is also popular today.

After a day of beauty and pampering yourself, you will feel refreshed and have a beautiful canvas in which to add make up and final touches.  Make a reservation at a unique place you’ve never tried before and pretend you’re on vacation.

For more modeling and beauty tips go to n2modeling.com and see professionals in action.

Bring back the sun!

During the winter months I start to look pale and my skin feels very dry from the elements. I was on a modeling shoot the other day and the makeup artist, Lisa, used bronzer on my face to give me some color.  It was just enough to give me a healthy glow.  I have used bronzer in the past, but wasn’t quite sure how to apply it.  I always seemed to look a little muddy or blotchy.  Lisa suggested that I make a 3 on both sides of my face.  She started at my temple, came down under my blush and then finished on my jaw line. This added some contour and warmth to my makeup.  It is amazing how a little bit of color can make you feel healthier.  Nars has a fabulous bronzer in two different shades.

Since I like outdoor activities, I have a problem with dry skin.  The winter months can be brutal. It’s hard to keep skin hydrated.  Makeup or bronzer won’t go on well without good skin care and especially moisturizer. You want to create a beautiful canvas in which to add makeup.  I start off by cleansing my skin.  Next I apply a good toner, serum, and moisturizer. I use a lighter facial cream during the day and heavier at night. Lately, I’ve been trying Flawless perfection as my night crème by Laura Mercier. There are a lot of good skin care lines out on the market.  It’s important to choose a line and stick with a routine.  It’s easy to try various products, but the hard part is keeping up your skin regiment twice a day.

It’s not just my face that is dry, but my entire body.  I like to use a very natural body lotion with a light scent of grapefruit or vanilla.  I can always tell a good moisturizer by the way it absorbs into my skin. After applying a light base of lotion, I add color to my skin by applying Loreal’s Sublime Glow, a moisturizer and skin tone enhancer. I find that if I add body lotion first, it goes on more evenly.

As a model, I will show up for a speaking or a spokesperson job and I will be required to bring my own clothes. I’m responsible for clean skin and a stylist will apply my makeup.  However, on a photo shoot or a fashion show, I’m not sure what I will be wearing.  I want to be sure my skin looks and feels healthy from head to toe.

For more modeling and acting tips go to n2modeling.com to see professionals in action.

Light up the room!

After searching for that fabulous dress or suit for a special occasion or festive party, it’s time to bring your look together.  Accessories like jewelry and a clutch are nice touches.

The next thought might be, “What should I do with my hair?” Trends this season are showing waves and volume.  Updos will never go out of style from year to year, and will certainly be in style this season.

Next it’s on to your makeup.  I like to focus on lashes, because they accentuate your eyes. It’s been said that eyes are the window to your soul.  Beautiful lashes can make you feel and look glamorous. There are many ways to achieve long lashes. You might try using an eyelash curler and lengthening mascara.  If you are going the inexpensive route, I prefer Great Lash by Maybelline. If you spend a little more, I like Peter Thomas Roth because it has a unique brush that separates your lashes.

False eyelashes are another way to go.  You can try a full lash on a band or single lashes.  I purchase lashes that look the most natural.  I enjoy having long lashes, but I don’t want it to seem contrived.  It’s like anything else, less is more.

Lately, I’ve been hearing about lash extensions.  I’ve seen a few people with them and they look wonderful.  Lash extensions need to be retouched every 2 -4 weeks.

There are also many products on the market to grow your lashes longer and thicker.  Latisse can be purchased through your doctor.  Other products like Lash Relonge’ and StimulashFusion can be bought online.  On all of these eye products and extensions it’s important to do your homework to make sure they are safe for you.

Once your look is complete, it’s time to forget about your appearance.  Step away from the mirror.  Enjoy your evening, and let your personality shine!

For more modeling & fashion tips, and to see models/actors in action go to n2modeling.com

Smile you’re on camera!

As a model, I’ve had many people ask me, ”What asset is the most important to have on a photo shoot?” There are many, but two of the most important and basic are beautiful skin and a great smile. When I’m modeling on photo shoots, I try and pick up beauty tips from the stylists.  They always know the newest trends and inside secrets.  I got a fabulous suggestion on my last shoot.  It’s called Clairsonic, and it’s a great way to keep your skin clean.  After a shoot, I may try and copy the same makeup technique or hair style that the stylist used.  Many times, I just can’t get the same result.

However, the two things I can control are keeping my skin clean and my teeth white. So I followed up on her tips.  I know it’s entertaining to talk about new makeup colors and techniques, but without the canvas of healthy skin and teeth, you won’t shine. In fact with great skin, makeup will accentuate your features rather than covering them up.  Regardless of your skin tone, a nice white smile makes the photo pop.

I’ve learned that cleansing your face is one of the most important steps in keeping skin healthy and beautiful.  In many skin care routines, this step is often overlooked.

Manual cleansing can leave behind dirt and oil that is trapped in pores.  The build-up can damage your skin. Clairsonic uses a patented sonic frequency that promises to remove six times more makeup and two times more dirt and oil.  It reduces blemishes and dry skin and minimizes the appearance of pores.  The main thing that I’ve noticed is that my skin feels smoother and it’s easier to apply my makeup.

Spas and dermatologists recommend and sell Clairsonic.  I’ve seen it sold at Sephora, and Dillard’s as well.  It can be a little pricey.  For a less expensive alternative, I’ve heard good comments about Olay Pro-X.  It’s just a fraction of the price and you can get it at CVS, Target, or Walgreens.

If you don’t want to invest in a cleansing system, then just be sure to wash your face thoroughly twice a day.  Remember to follow up with a good toner and moisturizer. To keep your teeth and gums in good condition, I would visit my dentist twice a year.  At that time, you can inquire about a whitening technique that would be good for you.

Follow these simple steps, and the camera will love you!

Be prepared for changes on set.

I like to share real modeling and acting experiences with you, so we can all learn.  I had to drive about five hours out of town to shoot a commercial. I was the lead talent.  My agent sent me the script and it looked like we were shooting in a park.  I would be playing the role of a doctor.  I was supposed to stay overnight so that we could shoot the voice work in studio the following day.  I assumed there wouldn’t be any lines or sound done at the park. 

 Never assume anything.  When I arrived,  I was told I would be in three different scenes with lines in all of them.  I got a little nervous, but I didn’t panic.  I knew I could do this.  I  started to memorize.  I had some time in between each set up to go over the next scene.  It was still difficult because the client changed a few words after I had memorized the script.  The copy wasn’t written well, so it didn’t flow.  This made it tougher.  I had my ear-prompter with me just in case.  I wasn’t able to use it,  because the director was using a jib camera and  it was framed as a very wide moving shot.  I wasn’t able to hit the button on my ear-prompter without being seen. So memorization was the only way to go.

It was very hot, and I was right in the sun wearing pants, a long sleeve shirt and of course, a white jacket.  I’m lucky that I don’t sweat much on my face, but I could feel the sweat dripping down my back.  A woman that was in one of my scenes needed to have powder applied every few minutes.  She felt really bad, but there was nothing she could do about it.

It was amazing that we finished early considering the changes to the script, heat, and we had an untrained dog in the scene.  There was a lot to organize. Thankfully with team effort, it all came together.

For more modeling and acting tips go to n2modeling.com and see professionals in action.

Keeping up with the new fashion trends!

If you are interested in doing print or editorial modeling it’s important to keep up on the latest styles.  Not just the fashion styles as far as clothing, but the new hair styles and products that make the finished look.  If you are taking new pictures to get your web or card updated than you want to look like the models that you see in the magazine.  I always go through as many magazines as possible.  I try and see where my look would fit in.  I ask myself , what kind of product or clothing do I want to sell?  I find great advertisements and then try to emulate the look, pose, and feeling. 

You want to go for at least 3 completely different looks.  A 16- 30 yr. girl or guy might go for a  fresh energetic concept, a high fashion, and maybe an athletic look.  It depends on your build and type.  A  30-50 yr. old man or woman may go for the Mother/Father, business, athletic or character look.  A child might try a dancing or jumping shot, a casual look, and one with  a toy or prop.  The important thing is to use different colors, accessories and to make each concept look totally different.  You want to show the advertisers or clients that you have a wide range and can do multiple looks.  It shows how diversified you can be, and assures the client that you can fit into any role.  You also want to show off your assets. If you have a great smile, make sure you use it.  If you have great legs wear a dress.

A good stylist for hair and makeup is really important.  They can make or break the shot.  A stylist that is up on the newest trends can make each shot look fresh and completely different from the next.  For instance, this season eyelashes may be the focus, so they might add fake eyelashes and more liner for a girl.  They will know that for hair the updo is the rage for example. For men they are good at changing up the hair with different gels etc. On a male face they might just use a little touch up creme and powder.  For kids there isn’t much makeup involved except for hiding imperfections.  Sometimes lip gloss is used on little girls and powder is used on all ages.  On little girls the variety in hair styles can add a lot of diversity.

Last but not least, it’s your attitude and style that is going to make or break the shot or concept.  Once you have been styled, it’s up to you to bring it!  That means thinking of different scenarios in your head, acting and coming up with a variety of expressions.  The best models are those who have studied acting, are aware of body placement and can light up a room!

To see professional models, agents, and casting directors in action go to n2modeling.com.  It’s a great place to post your pic and network.

Always a professional on a modeling or acting job.

Antoine Williams

One of the actors on n2modeling.com, Antoine Williams, said he just had the easiest day of his life on set.  He was cast as one of the missing person’s on Criminal Minds and they just used his photograph’s. 

There are times when you have a job and it is so easy and quick that you feel that you were really paid what you are worth. I had a job for Sprint the other day and was paid a day rate even though I was just working for an hour.   But, this isn’t the norm.  Roles or jobs can be very hard work and very long hours.

I was the director on a shoot yesterday and we were outside in the cold.  It’s Spring and our temperatures had been in the 80*s the preceding week.  The photographer had come up with some really cool locations by a lake, so we didn’t want to shoot inside.  We are producing a “green” issue for a magazine, so we wanted the scenes to be very organic and natural.  The poor model was dressed in short cotton or linen dresses for the most part.   She was freezing because it was only 45*.   We had to do 7 scenes.  The model had to change in the car.  My hands were so cold that it was hard for me to help her with the accessories.  I wrapped a blanket around her each time as the photographer was lighting the set.  Then I would pull it away and she had to emote and look natural.  The photographer had to get the shot in record time.

It was a great team effort and the stylist, makeup artist, grip and photographer all chipped in where it was needed.  It’s amazing that we got fabulous shots.  The main thing is that the model didn’t throw a fit even though she was cold and hungry.  We didn’t want to stop for lunch, because we  wanted to get done.  She was a true professional!

Go to n2modeling.com to watch professionals in motion, gain insights and post your pic to network!