Mink: The Personal 3D Makeup Printer

 

Michelle Phan “Robot Chic” YouTube Billboard, NYC

 

If you’ve been around New York City recently, watched networks like ABC Family, or opened a copy of Allure, you may have noticed the YouTube campaign featuring the biggest beauty gurus. It’s no wonder we continue to witness the rise of beauty bloggers and vloggers; The Internet is a huge force in revolutionizing the concept of beauty and how we consume beauty products.

We buy and sell cosmetics online, review beauty products online, and watch countless makeup tutorials online. Wouldn’t it make sense to eventually create our own makeup at home with the help of the Internet and 3D printing technology? Yes!

All you fellow tech geeks out there might be familiar with TechCrunch Disrupt and some of the hype surrounding 3D printing. But what does that have to do with the beauty industry? Imagine taking the color from any image on your phone or computer and printing custom makeup at home–essentially creating your own personal Sephora (okay, maybe that’s just me being really hopeful).

I was so excited to see this article and demo spotlighting Mink, a mini 3D makeup printer created by Grace Choi, a Harvard Business School grad.

Grace Choi, Mink at TechCrunch Disrupt

Mink, The Makeup Printer

You basically use any image software to identify a specific color, copy and paste the Hex Code and send the color to print. Choi’s prototype currently produces a powder eyeshadow pigment, but she explains the printer would also be able to create lipsticks, foundations and creams.

The evaluated price point is $300.00 for the printer (no set price yet for the ink/substrates). If you’re intrigued, you can request an invite to receive further updates regarding Mink.

I wonder about the quality of the “ink” and pigment ingredients. Even though Choi mentions the ink is FDA-compliant, I would like to know the composition in comparison to other trusted brands. Also, what else could the software and printer produce?

Will this technology really drive down the cost of cosmetics and help consumers save money in the long run? I hope so!

Regardless, the emerging 3D printing technology is pretty exciting and I like to think that an at-home makeup factory could be on the horizon!

Take a moment to watch this demo and let know what you think. What type of beauty product or invention would you create?

 

 

 

 

Spotlight: Beauty & Style Apps

Too busy to fit in that long-over due haircut? Forgot to schedule that appointment to weed-wack the upper lip fuzz? It’s been a busy start to the year but don’t let crazy schedules keep you from pampering and looking fresh!

I want to spotlight a few useful beauty and style apps that can help you stay chic while you’re on-the-go:

StyleBee

Type of service: StyleBee is a team of professionally trained stylists and makeup artists who are available to come to your home, office or hotel room. Before booking, be sure to check out their tips for the best way to prepare for an appointment.

• Blowouts
• Style and Makeup
• Only Makeup
• Updos
• Updos and Makeup
• Massage (in select locations)

Coming soon:

• Eyelash extension
• Mani/Pedi

Why it’s worth a try: If you are super busy or not sure which salon to book with, why not have the professional come to you? Have a party to attend? Inquire about group rates.

Link: https://www.stylebee.com

Beautified

Type of service: Same day booking for beauty and spa appointments. The Beautified team searches for the best partnered establishments to ensure you get the service you want:

• Haircut
• Bikini Wax
• Massage
• Blowout
• Manicure
• Pedicure
• Brow Wax
• Facial
• Makeup

Why it’s worth a try: Have a last minute interview or date? Never fear being turned away at a spa or salon because you don’t have an appointment!

Link: http://www.getbeautified.com

 

Flink

Type of service: Mobile fashion source connecting you to your favorite fashion and style bloggers and helps you discover and share their style.

• Follow your favorite bloggers
• Discover new bloggers
• Engage with the fashion community
• Easily share your style inspirations on multiple social media platforms

Why it’s worth a try: Take your blog roll up a notch and start a dialogue with other fashion junkies. Learn style tips from bloggers you admire and find new bloggers to adore.

 Link: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id798552697

Styletag

Type of service: A curated stream of the most cutting-edge street style looks you can shop. Create your own Lookbook and follow the streams of fashion designers, models and celebs.

Why it’s worth a try: Great coverage of Fashion Week trends and simple format for sharing your inspiration. See what fashion influencers are into and buy the looks you love.

Link: http://www.style-tag.com

Have you tried these apps? What do you think about them? What apps do you use to make your day even more fabulous?

Inspired Post: Sequins & Stripes Blog On What Is Important

{Check out the inspiration for this post: the amazing Sequins & Stripes!}

January 2014 is winding down. We’ve almost made it through, surviving the first real snow storm of the season, and now it’s time to reflect.

A show of hands: How many of you have made some sort of resolution, goal or plan for the year? Come on, don’t be shy! I commend you for having the courage to review your life and evaluate what could be improved, what changes need to be made (for health, happiness, success) and most of all, what is really important.

I arrived at the end of 2013 with a whole lot of life choices to evaluate; missed opportunities, second guessing my abilities, shortcomings, limitations. I made a promise to myself to recuperate the strength and energy so I could approach the new year very strategically. I realized I have a lot to “work on” (sigh) but I also have the potential and guts to achieve greatness–I can make it happen. Holla!

It’s scary to look into yourself and look at your life for what it really is. Sometimes you need to enlist the help of family and friends to help you put it all into perspective. Once you get past the ugly fears, you will feel lighter, liberated, like the fog is lifting and for the first time in a long while you can see all the colors of your life. Oh, how beautiful this view is!

Now that you can see things more clearly, your vision will become so vivid that you cannot ignore it. Don’t just look behind or ahead. Look all around you. The more you take in, the easier it will be to see the paths laid out before you. The better you can discern all the signs and how they make sense in your journey.

This post from Sequins & Stripes inspired me to really, truly consider what is important to me during this time. Check it out. Think it out. Write down what you didn’t get to achieve last year, why you didn’t follow through and what consequences this caused. Then think about this year and what is important for your life (including what is important to let go). Let that be your priority. Identify, very specifically, what it is you want this year and then focus on each item. What kind of time, money and effort will it take to achieve (i.e. losing weight, buying a house, going back to school and etc.). Not sure where to start? Do the research and seek advice from friends and professionals.

The only way to make progress is to face each goal head on. Make a plan, write down each step and milestone, follow your timeline and budget and ask those you trust to help keep you accountable. For me, I get so excited about the big picture that I can actually overwhelm myself with all the details at once. BITE SIZE. Break it down into parts that make sense to you and tackle it every day. Procrastination can stem from laziness or fear. Laziness or lack of passion and motivation could indicate that this goal is not that important to you (if you really want it, you will not make excuses). Fear or doubt can cloud your vision and make you focus on potential failures instead of success.

Here are some inspirational quotes to give you that kick in the booty. Save them as your phone or computer wallpaper so you are constantly reminded of the great things you will achieve!

ShopStyle: We Search. We Find. We ShopStyle!

Personal style. Everyone has it. To me, style is an opportunity to express how you feel or how you want to feel.

Well, I’ve had the amazing opportunity to express my personal style by partnering with the POPSUGAR Select team and participating in the ShopStyle We Search. We Find. We ShopStyle. advertising campaign.

ShopStyle is an innovative and chic way to search all the hottest trends and items so you can cultivate your own style story and purchase these items immediately. ShopStyle is like your best shopping friend: they will hook you up with $ale alert$, editors’ picks for inspiration and gift guides to take the stress out of shopping for others.

If you’re getting your holiday shopping on, you need to download this free App!

In fact, you may have already seen the print or television ads, such as this one:

The print ads feature a lay down photo of products you can find on the ShopStyle website to curate your dream wardrobe:

ShopStyle Print Ad

My inspiration for creating my lay down comes the from the journal shown in the photo, which reads: Dream Big. Sparkle More. Shine Bright. 

This concept truly reflects my outlook in life and has a strong influence in my approach to style. I live for detail, color and sparkle.

The experience was crazy fun! I did a DIY photoshoot and employed the help of my ever-so supportive boyfriend to be my photographer for the day. The lay down concept is awesome, but as a “model” I’m not sure it captures my best angles 🙂

The lay down arrangement is like a mood board that tells a story of my wardrobe wonderland. I love classic silhouettes to honor my curves and I feel the right accessory can give every outfit polish and shine. Honestly, one can never have too many baubles or sparkly shoes. I also adore makeup and perfume–these touches make you come alive.

For my ensemble, I chose to pair darker, edgier details with the “We Shop Style” t-shirt that POPSUGAR provided for the photo shoot. I was feeling a little retro glam meets punk-chic but still sweet with my plaid Hello Kitty style bow and matte red lips. The rest of the items are more festive and whimsical, like a dream. I felt like was popping out of my dream closet!

Below are a few links to the items in my lay down photo. I’ve had some of the items for a few years, so if something is listed without a link it is most likely because the item is no longer available (or I was unable to locate a link elsewhere). If you are inspired by these items, you can check out the ShopStyle website or app to score your version!

Clothes:

NY & Co. creme and gold/champagne dress

H&M white embellished peplum blouse

Ann Taylor Loft creme/champagne zebra pencil skirt

NY & Co. leather moto jacket

Mossimo dark grey denim leggings

Shoes:

Nike Roshe Run sneakers

H&M hot pink pumps

Nine West Caress round toe gold glitter pumps

Payless Brash cream/champagne rhinestone ballet flats

Accessories:

Kate Spade Terrace Justine bow bag

Michael Kors Black and Optic White Selma Saffiano Satchel

Michael Kors women’s rose gold chronograph watch

Forever 21 red and black hair bow

BaubleBar emerald crystal drop earrings

BaubleBar sapphire crystal drop earrings

Prima Donna fashion jewelry

Mossimo Supply Co. fedora hat

FRENDS rose gold Taylor headphones

Charming Charlie white mix master bracelet

Journal from Marshalls

Makeup:

Sonia Kashuk silver glitter makeup brushes (limited edition 2011 holiday set)

Sonia Kashuk matte limited edition “The Red Lip–Matte” lipstick

MAC Cosmetics Hello Kitty beauty powder in Tahitian Sand

Essie nail polish in Ballet Slippers

See by Chloe eau de parfum

Viva La Juicy by Juicy Couture eau de parfum

So, what do you think? Want to see more? Check out other lay down photos and ShopStyle inspirations on Instagram by following @ShopStyle and search #WeShopStyle.

Lucky FABB is here!

Okay darlings, I’m keeping this one short and sweet because I am getting ready for Lucky FABB (Fashion & Beauty Blogger) Conference!!!

Stay tuned for updates via Twitter, Instagram and Facebook:

Twitter: @iamsparkles

Instagram: @Iamsparkles

Facebook: Elizabethology

Hope to see you there ; )

Express Grand Opening Party & Jessica Sturdy from Bows & Sequins

{Yours truly with Jessica Sturdy, style blogger of Bows & Sequins…we match!}

I had the honor of meeting Jessica Sturdy, style blogger behind Bows & Sequins last Thursday at the Desk-to-Dinner shopping event with InStyle Magazine  and Grand Opening Party for Express at Madison and 51st in NYC.

Jessica was so sweet and we talked about how she started her blog and some of the exciting projects she is working on. I asked her some style advice questions and I wish I could take her shopping with me because this lady has an amazing eye for style.

The theme of the event was Desk to Dinner. How to take your professional work attire and transition this into night life. Think about the blouse/pencil skirt combo and adding a leather jacket and a long chain or trading in your denim for leather pants.

The newly renovated Express had a club-vibe and there were hors d’oeuvres and refreshments, mini makeovers and of course special discounts for purchases made during the event. I wore a fancy Express top (black and gold lame) with a black blazer, skinny dark denim and leopard flats. After all, I took the whole desk-to-dinner theme literally by adding the blazer and walking from work to the event. I wore my Bows & Sequins inspired necklace my sister gave to me (from JewelMint) in honor of the hostess.

{Display styled by Jessica}

{A few items I picked up from the event: Diamonds & Camo}

{My Bows & Sequins inspired necklace from JewelMint}

Upon entering the store I took the atmosphere in and immediately recognized Jessica. I introduced myself and we got to talking. She recognized my top because she also owns one and she got the reference from my necklace right away : ) Jessica took me around parts of the store explaining the outfit she wore and some of the displays she styled for the night. Not only was I a bit star-struck to ask this style guru my questions, but I was ecstatic that Jessica was so open about her blogging, career and encouragement to me and my dreams.

I’d love to share some of the highlights from my convo with Jessica:

Highlights:

Dressing to Impress:

Jessica will also be attending this year’s Lucky FABB in NYC! She went last year and said the speakers were amazing and the networking you get to do is priceless. She said the energy was high and the gift bags were fabulous. She was excited when I told her I was going for the first time and I asked her what a beauty or fashion blogger should wear to an event like this.

Jessica’s advice: Wear something that is honest to who you are and comfortable–both in fit and style. This is the event where you can wear anything that expresses your style, but you don’t need to feel like you have to wear something wild to stand out. Her lesson for me was that she wore pants to last year’s conference that weren’t tailored and she did not feel 100% comfortable in them and it can show in your body language and pictures. At a conference like Lucky FABB, you can’t afford to be uncomfortable in your ensemble–you have to focus on feeling fabulous and enjoying the moment (and taking the most Instagram-worthy selfies ever).

Fall Trend Alert:

I asked Jessica if there was one thing we should pay attention to this Fall, be it a print, color combo or cut. Jessica took me over to one of the displays she styled for Express and explained that she is currently feeling Camo (yes, it’s back!) to mix with more refined pieces (i.e. camo shirt with blazer and skirt for work). She also loves the incorporation of leather details like piping on skirts and of course the slew of moto-style jackets that are in practically every collection–classic and adaptable bad-ass chic style. For colors indulge in black and white; gold and black.

Expressing Your Style:

If you have checked out Bows & Sequins (do so right now if you haven’t) you know that Jessica displays her outfits of the day (OOTD) with candid with the city as her backdrop. I asked her how she felt about taking these pictures out in the open where passers by are sure to gawk out of curiosity. Jessica agreed that especially when she started blogging in Chicago, that the idea was a little frightening to her and that she had to be creative in how she got the pictures taken (now she has the assistance from friends and photogs, but before that she had to rely on self timers and quick poses!). Her confidence comes from loving what she wears and having fun with expressing her style choices.

Now she is more comforatble about the street style pics, even if a small crowd forms near her shoot. After all, that’s New York for you. The sidewalks are our catwalks and we are all models and photographers.

Passion Advice:

I am so grateful to Jessica for giving me her honest advice about how I can manage a not-so-dream job and the pursuit of the ideal career path while juggling a blog and passion that requires whatever remaining time and energy you have. Basically, you have to stick to your guns, take advantage of every opportunity you have and surround yourself with the right energy to keep you grounded and humble.

For all my fellow bloggers, whether this is your “hobby” or your career, you have to put in the hard work and allow yourself to thoroughly enjoy the fruits of your labor. And for those of you who feel like you’re not that important or not that big of a deal: Jessica has come a long way from sharing outfit pictures to hosting events and being an ambassador for brands. She didn’t get there overnight and she still has those pinch-me moments where she can’t believe the opportunities that have blossomed from her blog. But most importantly, she does not take it for granted and she appreciates her supporters.

Bottom line: If you have subscribers, fans or followers you have source of support and admiration from people who celebrate you and look forward to what you have to share. So keep on sharing, creating, writing and designing. There are millions of creative people in the blogosphere and the more variety we have the more we have to celebrate.

For more pictures from the event, search for #EXPStyle!

Express Grand Opening Party with InStyle Magazine & Jessica Sturdy of Bows & Sequins

Who: Jessica Sturdy, style blogger and author of Bows & Sequins

What: Express Grand Opening with InStyle Magazine

When: Thursday, October 3rd @ 6 PM – 8 PM

Where: Express @ Madison Ave & 51st Street

Why: Desk-to-Dinner Shopping Event

Just for YOU: 20% Promo Code for Cherry Blossom Tree Designs!

Birthday in a Box has launched–what better way is there to say “happy birthday” then sending that special someone a mini surprise party?

Elizabethology fans can enjoy an exclusive offer from Cherry Blossom Tree Designs!

Visit the shop, Customize your order & Enter promo code “LizXO20” during checkout.

This offer will expire on October 13, 2013, so happy shopping : )

There are many options to choose from…here’s a few examples of adorable customized goodies you can request:

Love what you see? Well, CBTD will be introducing customizable boxes for many more occasions…but probably not this kind!

Hester Street Fair + Michelle Phan & Em Cosmetics

Her vision is limitless. She shines so bright that she lights up the dream in my heart, and I know she does the same for everyone she reaches.

Today was a fulfilling day because I got to check out some spectacular treasures at the Hester Street Fair in NYC (LES) and above all, I got to meet my inspiration, Michelle Phan!

If you have ever been on the Internet, you have probably seen something about Michelle and her work.  Michelle has evolved into a superstar in the beauty industry and has pioneered in the world of DIY and social media success.

In a nutshell, Michelle has worked her heart out and it is safe to say she has “made it.” I have susbcribed to Michelle’s YouTube channel Michelle Phan since 2006 and she has been a source of inspiration to me ever since.

To name a few of her accomplishments:

A photo from Michelle’s feature in October’s Glamour Magazine:

Michelle recently launched Em Cosmetics,  her very own cosmetics line in collaboration with L’Oréal cosmetics:

And of course, she also spearheaded the YouTube beauty guru-inspired subscription service called Ipsy:

These are just a few reasons why Michelle Phan is someone to admire.

Her vision is limitless. She shines so bright that she lights up the dream in my heart, and I know she does the same for everyone she reaches.

At the Hester Street Fair, you have a chance to meet local artisans, chefs and jewelers. The first thing I did was head straight to Michelle’s Em Cosmetics tent to check out the goods and meet the ultimate beauty guru:

Original Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich from Melt Bakery:

Original Artwork from Tamara Garvey:

Midi Rings from Wink and Flip:

Mix It Up Pinks Lip Palette from Em Cosmetics (she signed ”Good Luck“!):

I’m wearing the NYX eyeshadow color in Morocco from this month’s Ipsy bag!

A brilliant touch is the empty bubble, where you can mix the colors to make your own shade!

I had such a great time–another magical NYC moment. Thanks to Michelle for her kindness and grace.

Ladies, never give up on your dreams and always reach for the brightest star!

☆ I’ve Been Nominated For The Liebster Award! ☆

To my pleasant surprise, I recently received a nomination for the Liebster Award from the darling Irina @ MakeupAmour! What an honor it is  to be recognized by you–Thank you so much : )

(Liebster is a term of endearment in German meaning, beloved, dearest, sweetheart, lovely, preferred and etc.)

{The Liebster Award Rules}
You must link back the person who nominated you.
You must answer the 10 Liebster questions given to you by the nominee before you.
You must pick 10 bloggers to be nominated for the award with under 200 followers
You must come up with 10 questions for your nominees to answer.
You must go to their blogs and notify your nominees.

{Here are MakeupAmour’s questions}

1. Do you tend to straighten more or curl your hair more?

To be honest, my hair has been going au natural lately but when I feel inspired, I reach for my curling wand to get some romantic waves.

2. What are one of your habits that you have to break?

My bad habit is not drinking enough water and sleeping late. Both are essential to good health, and I definitely need to hydrate and catch more beauty Zzz’s. What’s a busy gal to do?

3. How do you brainstorm your blog post ideas?

I believe the more you open yourself to new experiences and the more you open  your eyes to the world, the more inspiration will come pouring into your life. I read loads of magazines and blogs to keep my pulse on beauty and style news. However, it is engaging in dialogue with girlfriends and other bloggers that gets my creative juices flowing.

4. Name a product you heard was good, but didn’t like?

Just before the BB Cream phenomenon hit US stores, mainstream/drug store brands released their versions of whipped and mouse foundations. I heard a lot of buzz surrounding the Maybelline Dream Matte Mouse and had to try it out. I love Maybelline products but I am sad to say that this is one product that didn’t work for me.

5. What brand of high end make up do you own?

Where do I start? When I need a pick-me-up, I will treat myself to a high end beauty product. My go-to brands are Chanel and YSL.

6. You can only pick one item from your makeup collection to keep. What is it?

Concealer. I need it every day in every way! I believe in the need to achieve a clean, even canvas before applying any color; therefore, concealer is the most basic and versatile tool to own. Check out my four part series: Best Summer Concealers for some great staples!

7. Who is your celebrity style crush?

Kim Kardashian. All comments and opinions about her life aside, Kim always dazzles and knows how to work it. Hair, makeup and fashion. Kim K is my style spirit animal.

8. If you can go anywhere in the world, what would that one place be?

Paris. I visited when I was 8/9 years old and it changed my life. Paris, Je T’aime.

9. What are your summer/ vacation essentials?

Sunscreen (SPF 40), lip balm (the fruitier, the better), my iPad to blog and research!

10. What 4 words would you use to describe yourself?

Honest. Curious. Compassionate. Fabulous.

{Here are my Liebster Award Nominees (drum roll, please!)}

*I apologize if you have more than 200 followers. Either way, YOU ROCK!

MakeupAmour

Pearlsandparis

MillieMuppet

Joannaloves

parisandnewyork

On the-in-side

Rosyisme

Theposhblog

Vivalabeauty

Myclosetnbeautyfinds

Congrats, Ladies ~ keep up the fabulous work!

Please check out their blogs to see how amazing they are : )

{My Liebster Award Questions}

1. Who is your favorite YouTube Beauty Guru (please link to their channel or your favorite video!)

2. What song is currently most played on your playlist?

3. What movie or TV show best reflects your life?

4. What is your “holy grail” skin care or beauty item and why?

5. What makeup look are you afraid to try?

6. What are you currently reading that inspires you (be it book, blog, whatever)?

7. What Fall beauty or fashion trend are you most looking forward to?

8. Whose closet would you raid and what one item would you most likely keep?

9. Which cause or organization do you support? (Link if possible!)

10. Do you watch Pretty Little Liars? If so, what is your most convincing ‘A’ theory?