Fall is all about that sexy cat eye makeup, from winged liner to metallic to pops of color.

Although I tend to gravitate towards a strong lip I must admit that a beautiful eye, artfully embellished, does catch my attention. Cat eye makeup may seem like a lot more work than simply swiping on some lip color, but in fact, dramatic results can be achieved rather easily. With so many fabulous products and a little know-how you’ll be wondering why you’ve hesitated to try something new. Let’s begin with eyeliner.

A perfectly applied winged liner is, in a way, the eye version of a classic red lip; simple but dramatic. And even though it may seems intimidating, with a little practice it’s quite do-able

All you need is the right product, and good technique. Liquid eyeliner has come a long way from its original cake version.

With so many options at so many price points there is sure to be some thing for everyone.

Here are my 2 top picks for cat eye makeup products and tips on how to use them.

For the beginner, the product:

NYX Two Timer Dual Ended Eyeliner

This liner has three great things going for it: price, versatility and convenience.

Did I mention price? At $10,  it’s an inexpensive way to try out stand-out cat eye makeup with out having to break the bank.

NYX Two Timer Dual Ended Eyeliner has two sides, a twist up pencil and a liquid liner, and for a novice this combination makes for a wonderful tool to achieve the illusive the liquid liner look.

The technique:

Start by using the pencil side and applying it along the upper lash line. Take your time getting the shape just right (follow the lashline and make sure not to make the line too thick). When you get to the outer corner of the lid, open the eyes and follow the upward curve of the lower lash line to create the most flattering “wing” for your individual eye shape (you need not extend the line too far). Repeat on the other eye and adjust as needed.

Pro tip: I keep Hollywood Fashion Secrets’ eye makeup remover swabs on hand when creating liner looks to adjust and balance the “wings”. Once the shape has been perfected use the liquid liner over the guide you’ve created with the pencil to finish the purrfect cat eye look.

Another option is a more smudged rock and roll version. Line the eyes as above with the pencil this time making the line a bit thicker. With your finger or a small synthetic brush smudge the edge of the line furthest from the lashline. Once blended apply liquid liner along the lash line to intensify the look, a bit of black mascara and Voilá, Kate Moss has NOTHING on you!

For the expert, the product:

Benefits’ They’re Real Push Up Liner

This intense black gel liner also has three great features (One of which is revolutionary as far as liquid liners go). Long wear, creamy application and the convenience of a pen. And not just a pen but a very different angled applicator tip that makes the formula glide on smoother and easier than a brush.

I have always used a flat angle brush to apply liquid liner. I feel there is so much more control with it than with a long narrow brush. Because of this, for me there wasn’t much of a learning curve. However, for those of you used to a traditional liner brush it may take a couple of tries. Once you make the transition the ease of application is well worth the adjustment. You may find you don’t ever want to go back to a brush. As for formula I was pleasantly surprised at the long wear of the formula. In my experience using the product I found the only touchup I needed before dinner (after a long day of working on location) was at the inner corners of the eyes.

Remember; the thicker the line and longer the wing the more dramatic the look. With this product it’s easy to go from subtle to super dramatic.

The technique:

Start by turning the end of the pen a few times until product appears at the tip of the applicator. Point the small end of the applicator towards the nose and use a continuous flowing movement along the upper lash line towards the outer edge of the eyes. Take your time getting the shape just right (and make sure not to make the line too thick unless you are trying to achieve a very dramatic look). When you get to the outer corner of the lid, open the eyes and follow the upward curve of the lower lash line to create the most flattering “wing” for your individual eye shape (you need not extend the line too far if you are attempting a more subtle version of the look). Repeat on the other eye and adjust as needed. (Even with this gel formula the Hollywood Fashion Secrets’ eye makeup remover swabs really help adjust any imperfections both along the lashline as well as balance the “wings”.) Once the shape has been perfected, apply 2 coats of mascara to finish the purrrfect cat eye look.

Double the fun!

For a simple day to evening transition when wearing liner try adding a second line of gold right above the black. It adds drama with minimal work and the flash of gold every time you blink is sure to attract attention.

Splurge $19 Urban Decay Heavy Metal Liner in Midnight Cowboy (gold) or Steal $5 SRP NYX Liquid Crystal Liner in Crystal Gold.

Find Fatima on Twitter @fatimaolive

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The post Cat Eye Makeup Done Easy: 2014’s Purrfect Fall Makeup Trend appeared first on EcoSalon.

Artificial fragrances are rampant in the celebrity perfume business. But why would you even want to smell like someone else in the first place?

I recently read a quote from Emma Watson: “I can’t understand this (celebrity) fragrance thing,” she told the British Press Association. “Why would you want to smell like somebody else? Don’t you want to smell like yourself?”

You know, Emma, I totally agree with you. Why not smell like yourself? Or better yet, why not smell like aromas that you are naturally attracted to, blended in a way that creates a unique signature scent for you? Being a one-of-a-kind is something I think you, Emma, would understand.

‘s because of the years I spent working alongside Horst Rechelbacher, the founder of Aveda and Intelligent Nutrients and a proponent of aromatherapy and pure essential oils, or maybe it’s because I have a very strong sense of smell. I like to think it’s because I appreciate uniqueness. But, like Emma, I don’t understand the appeal of celebrity fragrances.

Is another celebrity fragrance really necessary? There are hundreds of celebrity fragrances on the market. Britney Spears has at least 12 different perfumes. There are not enough days in the week for her to wear all of them. Every time a celebrity launches a fragrance or adds a new fragrance to their portfolio I have to roll my eyes and think “am I missing something?” Nothing personal, Britney, but even though I’ve done your makeup a few times, I don’t know you well enough to want to smell like you.

Each of us is so unique in our tastes (our personal likes and dislikes especially when it comes to scent) that even if you love the celebrity whose perfume you are purchasing, you may not be attracted to the same smells as they are. Remember too: what smells good on one person doesn’t always smell good on others. And commercially available fragrances are created with synthetic and artificial ingredients including chemicals boosters and fixatives that give the aroma a strong longer lasting effect.

Which brings me to another point: the majority of what you’re paying for when you dish out the $50 to $100+ dollars at the cash register is not what’s in the bottle. The largest percentage of your hard-earned money goes to pay for overhead costs, profits for the manufacturer and seller, marketing costs, and sales commissions. Next, you pay for the beautiful bottle specifically created for the perfume as well as additional packaging costs. Let’s not forget that celebrities are not lending their name to a product for free, either: celebrity endorsements or licensing costs you, the end consumer.

Believe it or not, one of the least expensive parts of a fragrance is the actual perfume or “juice” in the bottle. This is because even if the juice contains expensive ingredients they are used in such small quantities and mixed with other, mostly synthetic ingredients and artificial fragrances to create the final product. And here is the crazy thing: the FDA does not require fragrance manufacturers to disclose the ingredients of (synthetic) fragrances because these formulas are regarded as “proprietary” and are protected under the FDA’s “trade secret” law. And by the way, the chances of the celebrity whose name on the bottle is actually wearing the fragrance you are purchasing are pretty slim (unless of course they are at an event promoting the fragrance).

So, what’s the alternative?

A Purefume rather than Perfume (I heard the word purefume for the first time from Horst Rechelbacher): customized scents created with pure essential oils derived from plant materials that harmonize with, rather than mask, an individual’s unique scent.

According to Kelly Holland Azzaro, registered Aromatherapist and former President of NAHA (National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy) there are many reasons for using essential oils instead of perfumes and artificial fragrances:

-Essential oils are natural botanicals aromas not synthetic or chemical laden smells.

-Essential oils do more than just smell good they have therapeutic properties that affect your well being.

-Most essential oils also have antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.

-Essential oils are not as invasive as artificial perfumes (which can cause health problems for those with upper respiratory issues and breathing difficulties or those hypersensitive to smells or chemicals).

-And for those that want a unique “purefume,” essential oils blend with a person’s individual smell, creating a very unique personal aroma. Can you say unforgettable?

Kelly advises that if you are not sure where to start, work with a professional aromatherapist who has been trained in the safe use of essential oils.

For the record, the word “fragrance” means a sweet or delicate odor. “Perfume” means a liquid substance that you put on your body in small amounts in order to smell pleasant; it can be created with either natural or synthetic ingredients. Only the words “essential oils” mean a substance obtained from a plant (ie from nature).

Here’s how to create a signature aroma using essential oils:

Margaret Fink, former Aveda Director of Education, advises that the best way to create a truly individual essential oil blend is to “go on a sensory journey”. Our olfactory system is linked to memory; you may find different smells even affect your mood and emotions. The best way to find what you love is to smell a variety of essential oils (singular notes as they are called) and identify the essences you are most attracted to. Once you’ve identified 3 to 4 scents (or notes) that affect you positively, they can be blended into a composition that is truly original “you bottled.” You can even decide to purchase the individual oils and mix or blend into additional mediums such as bath water, body lotion, and even be diffused into your environment. Layering your aroma makes it last longer without the addition of synthetic fixatives and boosters.

Don’t know where to start? Michelle Moulin Markuson, Aromatherapist and founder of Blending Babes, recommends sandalwood, cedar and rose as great aromas to transition into autumn. As a former Aveda alumni, Michelle started Blending Babes because she was done buying other companies’ scents. Michelle wanted to make essential oils, safe, easily available and affordable. Michelle’s company sells beautiful essential oils blends, hydrosols, and more on line.

Get sniffing and find a scent makes you feel like a celebrity.

Find Fatima on Twitter @fatimaolive 

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The post Artificial Fragrances: Why Smell Like a Celebrity? appeared first on EcoSalon.

Here are my three easy tips to get professional eyebrow shaping on your own.

If the eyes are the windows to the soul, the eyebrows could be considered the “window treatments.” If the window treatments are too overpowering then you can’t see the view. On the other hand, if the windows are bare, the effect can be very stark. The eyebrow shape can either detract or compliment the eyes. Here’s how to create perfect eyebrow shapes in 3 easy professional eyebrow shaping steps.

Where to start with your brows? Before you turn over all control to someone else, take a good look in the mirror. Most often your natural shape is the most flattering. After all, the true job of the brows is to protect the eyes from things like sweat or rain running down our forehead. Your very own unique arched eyebrow shape (before you went crazy with the tweezers in 6^th grade) helps to funnel the moisture towards the sides of the face preventing it from going directly in the eyes.

The brows also form a visual boundary on the face literally “framing” the eyes. And like a great frame, the brows should bring attention to the eyes rather than detract. Subtlety is the key. To create the most complimentary shape for you face (and eyes), use your features as a guide.

Here are the basics of creating beautiful brows:

Step 1: Measure

Determine the parameters of the brows (use a white eye pencil to mark these measurements). Use a pencil or brush to create a line from the outer edge of the nostril to the inner corner of the eye and continuing up to the brow. This is where the brow should begin (mark here with the white pencil). Use the same technique to determine where the brow should end, this time the line goes from the outer edge of the nostril to the outer corner of the eye and continuing up to the brow (mark here with the white pencil). The arch should be just above the outer edge of the iris of the eye, when you are looking straight ahead (mark here with the white pencil).

Step 2: Remove hair

Once the parameters are determined, I use the same white pencil to connect the three points and create the shape of the brow. I use the line as a guide to determine what to keep and what to tweeze. I go by the adage “measure twice, tweeze once.”

I like tweezing over waxing because tweezing is more precise, and when I am creating a perfect brow each and every hair makes a difference. I tweeze one hair at a time in the direction the hair naturally grows, and I wipe my tweezers on a tissue so they are more efficient at grabbing individual hairs. Don’t try to get a bunch at a time (remember quality not quantity).

Having the right tools makes all the difference in the world. My favorite tweezers are made by a company named Tweezerman. I have been using Tweezerman slant tweezers for the last 22 years. (I have one pair that I have had that long!) These tweezers have a lifetime guarantee and the company has a free sharpening policy. Most definitely worth the price!

Once all the extra hairs have been removed I blend in my guide line (white pencil), which also camouflages any redness.

Step 3: Perfect

Lastly, I fill in any gaps using an angle brush and a powdered shadow that perfectly matches the color of the brows (if in doubt choose a lighter rather than a darker color). You don’t necessarily need to buy a special shadow for the brows, however stick to matte shadows only. Believe it or not I use Paula’s Choice “The Nude Mattes Eye” shadow Palette in my kit. The palette has a beautiful array of matte colors that match almost every eyebrow shade and the shadows really stay on (the brows or the eyes). To finish and keep the brows perfectly groomed apply a clear brow gel brushing up and out.

The perfect eyebrow shape take a little time in the beginning but once you create the most flattering frame for your eyes the maintenance is minimal, and you’ll be surprised at how little eye makeup is needed to finish the face.

Find Fatima on Twitter @fatimaolive and on Pinterest

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This is the true meaning of Mother’s Day.

“You’re the most beautiful mom in the world!”

I woke up to those words and the beaming face of my daughter.

“Happy Mother’s Day,” she said as she dove into the bed to give me a delicious bear hug!

The most beautiful mom in the world? Wow! As my mom would say: my daughter “looks at me with good eyes.” I just turned 51 and although I am attractive, fit and take good care of my skin, I felt it would have been a more accurate compliment of my 25 year old self, especially when it’s six in the morning!

What is it that makes a mother beautiful to her children? Is it her face, her voice, her smell? Maybe so–and it’s surely much more than a physical characteristic.

Thinking back to my childhood, I realize what made my mother beautiful was more about feeling than vision. No matter what was happening, I knew I was the center of her universe. When I looked at my mother I saw the beauty of her unconditional love, her undivided attention, her fierce devotion. Perhaps it was because of this that her face glowed when she looked at me. Her love was like a tangible force field (a superhero power) that radiated through her eyes and constantly surrounded and protected me.

Could it be, what we as children see when we look at our mothers, is a reflection somehow of the love our mother feels for us?

My mother has been gone for 36 years, having lost her battle with breast cancer when I was a teenager. I have been without her longer than I was with her. After so many years, it isn’t the physical attributes that I remember; to be perfectly honest I can’t remember her voice or her laugh. Her physical body left, but her force field of love never did, I felt this once the pain of loss began to dissipate. I still feel the beauty of her love surrounding me to this day.

This Mother’s Day, in honor of my mother and in celebration of the amazing child I have been blessed to share my life with, I will unapologetically accept the gift of my daughter’s compliment and return it with my attention. I will put the phone down, return the email tomorrow, and right now, I will look deeply into her eyes (with my superhero mom powers) so she knows she is the center of my universe. I believe it’s the experience of truly, deeply loving a child unconditionally that makes a mother beautiful.

Find Fatima on Twitter @fatimaolive and on Pinterest

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I know what I want for Mother’s Day: a bath. Actually, not just a bath, but a bath experience at home and some me time to really enjoy it. Know any other moms who could use this? Check out these Mother’s Day gift ideas for the spa and tub loving mom (read: every mom).

Ritual bathing has been around for thousands of years and rightly so.  There is something so incredibly luxurious about slipping into a body of water.  Soaking in warm water actually triggers the dilation of blood vessels allowing muscles to relax and release tension.  The other component of the ritual bath is more enigmatic; a cleansing of energy and spirit. It is a way to release stress and encourage some quiet relaxation in order to be fresh for a new experience.

This Mother’s Day why not give mom a gift of time to herself by preparing a bath ritual for her? Here are our top picks for Mother’s Day gift ideas truly embody the art and ritual of relaxation.

Begin with the environment.

Make sure the bathroom is clean and free of clutter. Make it sparkle. She will find that a gift in and of itself!

Set the mood

Light some candles – I first discovered Big Dipper Wax works candles at Whole Foods.  They are made of 100 percent beeswax, which has a lovely sweet honey smell on it’s own. Big Dipper Candles also come in ten blends that are created with pure essential oils. Aromatherapy candles can set the mood whether mom needs to relax (lavender) or energize (lemongrass and grapefruit). I always travel with one of Big Dipper’s candles in a convenient tin, the ylang ylang and tangerine combo is my favorite.

 Prepare the skin

Before getting into the bath, have mom take a warm shower and thoroughly exfoliate the skin. Clairvoyant Beauty’s Blue green Algae Body Polish contains a super-moisturizing blend of shea and cocoa butters, almond and avocado oils, as well as sea salt to gently smooth skin while delivering essential moisture. (Encourage mom to spend a little extra time on elbows ankles and knees). I love that the founder’s grandmother was the inspiration for this line!

Fill the tub, and have mom pick one of the 5 herbal bath formulas from Kneipp, Revive 5 Herbal Bath Collection that best suits her needs. These highly concentrated oils combine with the soothing powers of water to create a spa like atmosphere. Choose to awaken vitality with rosemary, and for deep sleep use valerian and hops; may chang and lemon creates an uplifting experience; juniper is great to sooth muscles; and almond blossom softens the skin. Each bottle contains enough for 1-2 baths.

Set a glass of cold water with lemon near the tub so mom can sip while she soaks.

And don’t forget to leave a clean towel with a bottle of Burt’s Bees Mama Bee Nourishing Body Oil, for mom to use after her bath.  I used this light sweet almond oil blend throughout my pregnancy and still love it after my bath (ten years later).

Now turn off the phone, close the door, and let mom enjoy.

Find Fatima on Twitter @fatimaolive and on Pinterest

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Natural beauty products are better for our body. And on Earth Day 2014, we remember that they are better for our planet, too.

Earth Day, now in its 44^th year, invites us to examine how our actions impact the planet. But it is just one day—so what about the other 364 days in the year?

April 22 1990 was the 20^th anniversary of Earth Day, and my first. I had just moved to Minneapolis having accepted a position at Aveda a month prior. Little did I know it would be a move to a whole new way of life.

Before I started working for Aveda, green was simply a color to me. Once I joined the company I began to understand that green was so much more, thanks in no small part to its visionary founder, Horst Rechelbacher. His vision of sustainability and environmental responsibility changed everything. No longer did you have to sacrifice product performance for a cause. All of us on the inside were constantly being challenged to live up to the mission of the company, and what made Aveda so special and successful was that we did. Our enthusiasm was contagious.

It was through the success of Aveda that I realized that the choices we make with our purchases support the changes we want to see in the world. Just look at how many choices we now have for amazing product made in a responsible, earth friendly manner. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the choices, though (I know I do). Therefore, I called my friend and Aveda alum, Terry Gips, who is now President of the Alliance for Sustainability and asked: “What can I do for Earth Day, and will it really make a difference?”

The truth is, there is a lot each of us can do–even if it seems so simple, so insignificant. From supporting companies that are minimizing their impact on the environment, to making small changes that can save money and the earth at the same time. There really is so much that can be done. Terry’s advice is to educate yourself: “understand what is going on and prioritize.” Terry has written a wonderful piece called “Show Me the Money: 10 Simple Sustainability Steps People Can Take to Save Money and the Environment.”

To that advice this Earth Day, why not educate yourself on some natural products for the body and home, and see if you can go a little greener? Swap one of your usual natural beauty products for a more sustainable product that makes you look better, with no guilt! Here are four companies noteworthy for both their commitment to the environment as well as making truly fantastic and effective products. They’re so green you’d think it was St Paddy’s Day all over again!

Hair

First up is Intelligent Nutrients Certified Organic Health and Beauty, founded by Horst Rechelbacher. IN is the evolution of Horst’s idea that “Everything we put in and on our bodies must be nutritious and safe.”

Intelligent Nutrients uses:

• certified organic ingredients
• 100% plant fragrances, never synthetic
• Nothing toxic, plasticizing, metallic or scary 
(I love this!)
• Combining plant wisdom with the latest in scientific technology

My family’s favorite IN product is the Pureluxe Shampoo and Conditioner. As with all of Horst’s products, the scent is what you fall for first. Lemongrass, ylang ylang and geranium combine for an uplifting and refreshing experience that leaves your hair hydrated, shiny and healthy, and I feel good about my daughter using it.

Face

Earth Tu Face began with two herbalists, a garden, and a focus on creating a purely plant-based skin care. I recently discovered Earth Tu Face and appreciate its responsible plant based approach to beauty.

Earth Tu Face believes:

• In truth and transparency in the personal care industry
• Never putting on your skin what you would not put in your mouth
• In minimal waste packaging
• In avoiding synthetics & preservatives

The Earth Tu Face Voyage Travel Kit is a great introduction to its skin care. It includes: Face Wash, Face Serum and Body Butter.  The gentle formulas and earthy aromas make your skin feel as if you’ve been on a retreat (even if your never left your bathroom).

Body

Robin Brown and Anna Cirronis started Erbaviva in 1996 as a line of organic skincare products for baby and mothers-to-be (their own newborn was their inspiration). The company has since (and thankfully!) grown to include products for the entire family. Erbaviva’s products are compassionately made by hand at the company’s own renewable energy powered facility in Southern California. With so many beautiful products to choose from it’s hard to decide which one I love the most!  The Relax body lotion is a perfect addition to a pre-bedtime ritual.  The light and nourishing cocoa seed butter combine with natural oils of lavender, rose and neroli to restore moisture and encourage relaxation.  Or check out the Refreshing Foot Balm, which is perfect for getting those winter feet flip-flop ready.

Home

Launched just one year ago by artist and package designer Kristi Head, LITE+CYCLE candles are 100 percent earth-made with pure essential oils, vegetable waxes and a single cotton wick. No chemicals, pesticides, paraffin or synthetics. Made by hand in the USA. The vessel-less pillar candles integrate renewable biodegradable materials with natural-only ingredients.

The recently launched Urban Forrest candle was inspired by the juxtaposition of  a natural oasis in the center of the city. Notes of cedar, fennel, fir and a hint of coffee blend to create the perfect balance of Zen with the zip of caffeine.

My personal steps for Earth Day: indulge in all of the above! Plus, I just ordered a compost bin for my organic waste. Change starts one step at a time.

Find Fatima on Twitter @fatimaolive and on Pinterest

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The post Earth Day 2014: Low-Impact Sensibility for Your Natural Beauty Routine appeared first on EcoSalon.

Spring is a time of renewal, so why not try a new makeup look? These beauty tips make it easy.

My favorite thing about makeup is you can always start again–just like spring starts over with its beautiful parade of colors and scents.

Some of my favorites looks for spring included graphic prints, rich colors, fun florals and a little metallic sheen that’s just a promise of warmer days to come. Although I still need to wear a winter coat here in Minnesota, I have been incorporating some of my favorite spring trends underneath.

It’s not just spring’s closet I have been diving into, but the fun palette of makeup as well.  I believe makeup is the ultimate accessory.  The right product and shade and a few well-placed strokes of a brush can complete any outfit.

My top beauty tips for a wearable spring look:

1. Raw Beauty

The look – think a delicate bloom kissed by spring’s cool morning dew.  Gorgeous glowing skin compliments any makeup application (or nothing at all).

Create flawless skin by first gently exfoliating the face with a product like Derma-e Anti-Wrinkle Vitamin A Glycolic Scrub. Next, mix a little moisturizer with your foundation for a more sheer natural look. To correct any imperfections, choose a concealer shade that perfectly matches your skin tone and apply only where needed.  Add a little flush to the cheeks with a cream blush in the same shade as the inside of your lips (this is the most complimentary shade for your skin tone).  Finish with a small amount of illuminator applied along the tops of the cheekbones, at the brow bone and lightly on the forehead, bridge of the nose, and chin. (It’s important to be light handed – if you over do, it can look greasy rather than glowing). With skin that looks like it’s lit from within, you may not need anything else.

2. Orange is the new…

It’s symbolic that orange, the color of transformation, has emerged as springs signature color.  It’s a new modern twist on the classic red lip. My signature look is great skin and a pop of color on the lips, so you can be sure I have embraced this trend with both lips! What I love is the simplicity and impact of a great pop of color.

If this intensity seems too much for you, never fear. Try a gloss rather than a matte shade for a subtler version of this look. Orange lips pair perfectly with more muted shades of clothing.

3. The eyes have it…

For those who would rather focus on eyes, spring trends have plenty to offer.

Update a classic cat eye with a cobalt liner.  Deep rich blues such as cobalt and navy are a lot less intense than black. Don’t let liquid liner intimidate you. If you’re new to lining, use a pencil first to create the shape and then go over it with a liquid. If lining isn’t your thing, go for a sweep of cobalt on the top lid and finish with mascara. Just remember to keep the lips neutral to balance the face.

4. Go for the gold

Try metallic eye shadows for a softer more sophisticated take on the smoky eye. Shades of gold are complimentary to every skin tone and add dimension and light to the eyes.  Try a cream version for spring.

What are your favorite spring makeup beauty tips?

Find Fatima on Twitter @fatimaolive and Pinterest

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