I'm one of 10 All-Canadian Beauty Blogs You Need To Know Via Flare Magazine

I'm still in awe that Flare magazine named Spiced Beauty as one of 10 All-Canadian Beauty Blogs You Need To Know. I heard about the list on Faces by Farah (one of fave bloggers who was on the list as well) facebook page. Never in a million years would I expect to see my blog. 

The part that really touched my heart was "This blog isn't only for women of colour, but having an editor that showcases colour palettes on a darker complexion is definitely an asset."

That line embodies everything that I've tried to achieve for the past 4 years. It brings me back to the times when I was younger and I watched others shop through the makeup aisles. I felt like nothing matched/would compliment my "dark/deep" skin tone. I do not want anyone to feel how I felt those times. 

That's why I started Spiced Beauty. I really feel that everyone regardless of skin tone has the right to have one beauty product that truly makes them confidently smile when they put it on. If I can help you achieve that feeling, that's truly all that matters to me.

Thank you for reading <3

World MasterCard Fashion Week: KORHANI home Carpet Couture Runway Show

It's that time again! 

World MasterCard Fashion Week. 

Toronto is buzzing with new trends, amazing shows and fresh faces!

I had the opportunity to attend the KORHANI home Carpet Couture Runway Show. 

I was completely blown away with the precise tailoring and unique designs. I had to keep reminding myself that they`re wearing Carpet during the whole show! 

Check out some of the shots I captured!

The first one is my favourite because it's creepy and invokes emotion.

Can you believe that this is carpet?

Benefit Core Collection Swatches!

Last month, I had the opportunity to attend a really fun event at the Benefit Headquarters. 

While I was there, they unveiled the Benefit Colour Core collection for 2013. 

Doesn't the packaging remind you of that old Art deco feel? 

 The line also features one of the hottest trends right now for spring/summer- Pastels!

Thankfully, I was able to try out some goodies from the line courtesy of Benefit Canada! 

 If you have any questions, please ask them below.

Enjoy the swatches!

Ultra plush lip gloss

Our soft & silky glosses glide on sooo smooth, drenching lips in luscious color that’s never sticky. From crystal clear to hot pink, the luxurious formulas give your lips a kissable, sexy sheen.

Longwear powder shadow

This soft & silky shadow comes in 12 wearable shades and three finishes: matte, satin and sheen. From pale shell to brilliant silver, we’ve got you covered!

Creaseless cream shadow

..Crease-proof & budge-proof as ever! The 10 incredibly wearable shades (including original favorites r.s.v.p., birthday suit and skinny jeans) glide on easily and last all day long.

Fakeup

Cover-up goes incognito! This hydrating crease-control concealer - with Vitamin E & apple seed extract - hides dark circles & diffuses fine lines for a silky smooth, ultra-natural look. Available in three shades, it’s proven to keep skin hydrated for 6 hours!*

I know that this may sound crazy but I loved swatching everything in this post. I totally should start doing more posts like this. My favourite out of the bunch has to be the long wear powder shadow. Since I'm a dark/deep skin tone I didn't expect any of them to show up on me. The colours are actually really pretty. I feel like I want to incorporate Kiss Me, I'm Tipsy in every look.

Do you see a product here that you want to

try?

Sephora Color Charged Graphic Lacquer Emerald Nails

I couldn't have picked a better timing for this post!

Green nails just in time for St. Paddy's Day!

This post was apart of Challenge Two for Fashion magazine's Beauty Panel.

I used Sephora Color Charged Graphic Lacquer in Emerald ($12.00 CDN).

Can you believe I applied this with three coats (no base or top coat).

To make my ring finger pop, I used Maybelline Color Show Nail Sticker in Divine Crocodile.

I'm a part of Fashion Magazine's Beauty Panel!

If you follow me on twitter, most of you know that I'm now a part of Fashion Magazine's Beauty Panel!

What's beauty panel you ask?

A panel of  Canadian beauty bloggers & MUA's who share our insight on 

weekly questions dealing with makeup, hair & nails.

Real Technique Brushes are now sold in Canada!

I remember my first encounter with these brushes. It was at an Ulta in Buffalo, New York.
My first time ever in Ulta and the real technique brushes were on sale. 

One base/flawless set was left and I told my friend that she could have it. 

Flash forward to now.. 

Real Technique brushes are now sold in Canada!

I know it took a while but I love that fact that I can drive to walmart and pick up products
that I know bloggers in USA and UK rave about.

*More and more walmart locations are getting the brushsets and individual brushes- so don't fret if you can't get the set that you want at the moment. Another option for getting items you want is shopping online at farleyco.ca. 

I was sent the Real Techniques Your Base Core Collection. 

You can never go wrong with a great set of face brushes!

Comes with:
-Detailer brush
Precision cut to effortlessly conceal problem areas; or, use with lipstick for long-lasting shape and definition.

-Pointed foundation brush
Use with liquid foundation to build custom coverage.

-Buffing brush
Ideal for full coverage application of powder and mineral foundation.

-Contour brush: 
Delicately applies highlighter to contour or create sheer, soft-focus finish

Why you should get it:

• The brushes are soft but firm enough to get the job done.
• Synthetic taklon bristles are great for anyone with sensitive skin. - Plus they are good with wet & dry products.
• The case transforms into a stand- Perfect for someone like me who is always misplacing brushes.
• The brushes have the "usage" names on them. e.g "Contour Brush" - Always good for someone who is new to makeup.
• Last but not least they are 100% cruelty-free.

Have you tried Real Techniques brushes before?

Caryl Baker Visage- The Ultimate Facial

How many times a year do you get a professional facial? 

Every month? Every six months? NEVER?

What If I told you that you can do this at your local mall!

I was recently treated to the "Ultimate Facial" at Caryl Baker Visage. 

The Ultimate Facial is a 60 minute treatment that combines the use of 

deeply hydrating collagen and cell boosting oxygen.

I got my complimentary facial done by a very knowledgeable lady named Jacqueline. She answered all of my questions! I love the fact that she wanted to get to know my skin. We talked about what I think my problem areas are and what I can do to change it.

Having these conversations are crucial. A lot of places slap on product on you without asking what your skin regime is, skin type or if you have allergies.

I have a grape allergy and she made sure that she didn't use any products that contained grapeseed oil.

I should also add that she did a skin analysis on me using a magnifying lamp. Other than the light discolouration on my cheeks she told me that all my pores are small and consistent. YES!! Honestly that made my day. Hahaha!

Before she added the collagen mask, she properly cleansed my skin. It's really important to start with a clean base to make sure that you get the best out of your facial.

The collagen sheet mask was kept on for 10 mins. Did you know collagen diminishes fine line and wrinkles? I'm blessed that I don't have this issue but I was told that early prevention is the best way to combat it. The second part of the facial involves using cell booting oxygen directly on the skin. It's suppose to plump up the skin and leave you look radiant. 

I will add that going to get it on a Friday evening was not the best idea on my part. The mall was packed and it was noisy (I'm easily distracted). They did put down a privacy screen for me which did help a bit. Next time I'd schedule my appointment for early morning or in the middle of the week when I know not as busy.

Overall, I loved the facial. My skin looked amazing and I loved the products she used.