8 Red-Carpet Hairstyles You Can Wear with Jeans

8 Red-Carpet Hairstyles You Can Wear with Jeans

Get the tutorials for the A-list hairstyles you can dress up or down

This is a TotalBeauty.com celebrity hairstyles article Do you ever feel like celebrity hairstyles are pretty, but way too fancy to wear with anything other than formal attire? These looks straight from the red carpet are chic … and casual enough to pair with your skinny jeans. See hairstyles

Elizabeth Grant Vitamin C Eye Radiance Cream Review

Shu Uemura Eye Lash Curler Review

This Shu Uemura lash curler needs no introduction. It is the cult favorite in Sephora and a lot of makeup enthusiasts are amazed at how easy their lashes get curled using this tool in such quick, easy-to-do steps. It is also one of InStyle's Best Beauty Buys of 2011.

I've been using Shu Uemura lash curler for seven years now, and I received a brand-new one to test. I'm glad to say that the performance is still the same as it was when I first tried the Shu lash curler. Even then, Shu Uemura claims that this is a new and improved tool:

-upgraded silicone pad in a new "mushroom" shape provides a protective, stay-put edge for improved safety and optimum curl.
-upgraded patented hinge with precise engineering applies perfect amount of pressure on eyelashes
-curved angle suits all eye shapes
-calculated shape and size of frame length and ergonomic handles ensure stability and control

It gives my stick-straight asian lashes more oomph as it curls. It gives a very natural-looking curl as opposed to those sharp 90-degree bends that look crimped.


Before using Shu eye lash curler


After using Shu Uemura eye lash curler





What I love about this curler is that unlike others, this does not pinch my lids, which is a godsend! I hate the pain of pinched lids, and the shape of this is perfect for my eye. I get to curl my lashes safely, effortlessly and without pain. No wonder this is such an iconic product.

The only downside is the price. It retails for $19, but I would rather pay this price and have a great-performing tool that will not pinch and hurt my lids.

The Shades Of U Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars

Note: Media sample was provided by a representative of the company for consideration. All opinions are completely mine.

Weekend Beauty Reads from The Beauty Blog Network 01.29.12

Sheila from Painted Ladies has nothing but good things to say about CoverGirl’s Blastflipstick Blendable Lip Duo.

Phyrra shows you a lovely purple look with L'Oreal Perpetual Purple and Fyrinnae Cuddlefish.

The Shades Of U features swatches, review, and a look using NARS Spring 2012 products.

Blue Cross Snowman and Pumpkin Nail Polish Swatches

I should have posted these swatches at least three months ago! I found amazingly cute snowmen and pumpkin polishes filled with hex glitters and smaller glitters, and I was over the moon with excitement! I couldn't wait to use them by themselves or over other polishes. Here are swatches of the Snowman/Pumpkin polishes that I have (no names):

Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Concealer Swatches and Review

NARS Makeup Removing Water Review

Bayberry Naturals Organic Skincare: Body Scrub and Buttercream Review

Lavender Buttercream, Turmeric & Citrus Clarifying Body Scrub












Body Scrub


Lavender Buttercream



I've had the opportunity to try Bayberry Naturals skincare products, a 100% organic skin and hair care collection designed for men, women and children that launched in 2011.

I've always enjoyed natural and organic products as I'd like to use skincare products that are free from sulfates, parabens, fillers, artificial fragrances and dyes. In this instance, I was able to try two products from Bayberry Naturals, their Turmeric and Citrus Clarifying Butterscrub and the Lavender Buttercream. It is the owner's philosophy that skincare products are more effective and gentle when all unnecessary ingredients are stripped away, leaving only the purest, most essential oils left to cleanse and purify.

First of all, let me say that I am loving the Turmeric and Citrus Clarifying Butter Scrub. It comes in a huge tub with 12.6 oz/357 g of product. It smells so amazingly refreshing and delicious, kinda like lemon pound cake! The exfoliating beads are actually sea salt, and it is infused with Grapefruit Essential Oil, neem and turmeric. It is perfect for oily or combination skin, and the grapefruit oil brings back moisture to re-balance the skin. I tried it in the shower and I loved how it gently sloughed away dead skin cells on my knees, elbows, heels and even my face, gently revealing brighter, smoother, more supple skin. Most of all, it does not contain pthalates, parabens or any artificial fragrances. This is a staple in my shower stall now.

The Buttercream I tried is Lavender-infused, and contains Shea Butter, Organic Jojoba Oil, Mango Butter, Vitamin E, and Evening Primrose Oil. It made my skin really soft and smooth without feeling too greasy. The only thing that I didn't like is that it is lavender-infused, which as we all know is soothing to the body and makes us relax and fall into a deep sleep. I usually shower in the mornings so I need something that will energize and invigorate me.

All in all, I am liking this line especially the body scrub, and maybe the buttercream if I try a different scent other than lavender. These are really good quality products, and the clincher is that these are 100% organic and cruelty-free (not tested on animals). You can purchase these products at www.bayberrynaturals.com

Note: Media sample was provided by a representative of the company for consideration. All opinions are completely mine.

Bobbi Brown Spring 2012: Rose Gold Collection

Available: February 2012 at Bobbi Brown counters and www.bobbibrown.com

NARS Spring 2012 Swatches & Review: Paramaribo, Mexican Rose, Gaiety

Paramaribo eyeshadow duo, Gaiety blush
Mexican Rose Velvet Gloss lip pencil

Knockout Nails UV Nail Hardening System Discount for The Shades Of U Readers

OPI Nicki Minaj Swatches

Hi everyone! I've had these swatches for quite a while now, but I finally have the opportunity to show them! OPI Nicki Minaj collection has big bursts of color in store for us, paying homage to Nicki Minaj's flamboyant personality. All the swatches below are three coats, with the exception of the glitter topcoats which are 1-2 coats.


Did it On 'Em