I have started a facebook fan page today come have a look to recieve upto date info, competitions and news about me and my work.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Abigail-Bramwell-Makeup-Artist/
xxxxx

Weddings and happy couples

I have been extreemly busy the last 2 weeks.  I have been working in Newcastle and York Bobbi brown stores and also done full makeup for 2 wedding parties.  I wish both couples all the love and happiness for their futures together and I loved every minuite spent with them on their special days.



I used a wide selection of products on Claire and her bridesmaids, I have listed them below

• Bobbi Brown Hydrating eye and face cream
• Bobbi Brown corrector in Bisque and Concealer in Warm Sand
• Bobbi Brown Foundation in Luminous moisturising formular in Warm Sand with Pale yellow loose powder
• Bobbi Brown Bronzing powder in Antigua with Bobbi Brown Blush in Tawney on the apples of the cheeks
• Bobbi Brown eye shadows in Champane quartz, Bronze and Chocolate on the brows
• Bobbi Brown creamy lip colour in Rose garden

Lucy is a very naturally beautiful woman who wanted to just enhance her natural features and look like she had no makeup on, Lucy has suffered with break outs and oily skin which she wanted controlled for her big day so again listed are the products which i used to provide her with a long lasting look for the whole day.

• Bobbi Brown Oil control lotion with Hydrating eye cream and Hydrating gel cream on the cheeks
• Bobbi brown concealer in porclain peach and creamy concealer in warm sand
• Bobbi Brown foundation stick in Sand with Pale yellow Sheer finnish powder
• Bobbi Brown bronzer in Antigua all over the face and concentrated on the cheeks
• Mac eyeshadows in Crystal Avalance all over the lid, Illegal Cargo on the lid and Bronze pressed into the socket line to add contour
• Bobbi Brown Lip colour in Sandwash Pink and Sandwash Pink Lipliner

I wish both Brides and their partners all the happiness for the future and I loved having such an important role in their day

xxx

Bobbi Brown Mineral Makeup

Bobbi Brown is renowned for her amazing skin correct foundation and this is no exception.  The powder is light and easy to pick up on either a face powder puff for a full coverage or with a face brush for a lighter coverage.  I expected to need to use a powder puff as i usually prefer a fuller coverage but i tried with my face brush first and was amazed with the finished result. 

Without Skin foundation mineral Makeup


I have extremely pale skin and I usually match up to porcelain foundation but believe it or not I am wearing Medium in this picture!!  The foundation comes in the same colours as the tinted moisturizers range.  As with all Bobbi Brown foundations the Skin Foundation Mineral Makeup is yellow based to blend the most natural with the skins natural undertone.

With Skin Foundation Mineral Makeup

I used Bobbi Brown Hydrating face cream and my corrector and concealer underneath the foundation and applied the powder over the top of both.  The staying power is great for everyday.  I applied this foundation on the train at 7am and endured a 2 hour train ride, worked a full day and another 2 hour train ride and I did not feel that i needed to touch up or reapply at any point throughout my day, I have fairly normal skin although it can be slightly dry at times so I cannot answer for oily skin but i am fairly sure that with the correct primer and moisturizer underneath the foundation would still wear extremely well.

The finished look

 The foundation contains Vitamin C & E Complex helps protect against skin-ageing free radicals.  Glycerin, Soybean Extract & Ceramides help condition, soften and smooth skin. Sodium Hyaluronate helps prevent dryness and cracking.

Bobbi Brown Hydration Rich Cream Cleanser

Eventually I am able to blog about this amazing new product...I have been using this cleanser since July when we were given it on Seasonal training and It is now available for you...  Another welcome product in the Hydrating range and a brilliant product for people in a hurry.  The rich smooth formula gently removes all traces of dirt and makeup without stripping the skin of moisture and gently washes away with water.  Avocado Butter and a natural blend of Jojoba, Avocado and Grape Seed Oils gives skin a cushiony, comfortable feel.  Apply to the skin dry, gently massage into the skin with finger tips and wash away...SIMPLE AS!  It smells and feels fresh and clean and I also mix it with my buffing grains to exfoliate my skin.

Illamasqua Theatre of the Nameless

Well a new season and a new collection from Illamasqua to look forward to...I am a fairly new addict to the brand and now I feel I need to try everything!I am so excited and thought id share my excitement with you!!!

The AW11 Theatre of the Nameless collection launches on www.Illamasqua.com on 2nd September, and at Illamasqua counters worldwide on 8th September.

However, as a sneak preview of our intoxicating new collection we have released one product from the collection early. Introducing our new mascara, Masquara.

If the eyes are the windows of the soul, our new Masquara in Raven (midnight black) reveals a heart of darkness with a new formula that lengthens, defines and dramatises to extremes. The happy union of our unique brush design and new smudge-proof formula ensures lashes can last the whole night through.

This is the first product to be released from the collection a 'new masquara'. 

If the eyes are the windows of the soul, our new Masquara in Raven (midnight black) reveals a heart of darkness with a new formula that lengthens, defines and dramatises lashes to extremes.

The happy union of our unique brush design and new smudge proof formula ensures lashes can last the whole night through

Retailing at £15 and the new brush and 'raven' colour really wet your excitement for the rest of the collection!! I am thankfully working for Bobbi Brown in Fenwicks Newcastle on Saturday 10th September and as we do not have an Illamasqua counter in York I will be making sure I try and stock up on the new collection.....I will keep you posted.

Illamasqua Product Reviews and looks

Hi all, firstly I have had such a busy busy week so not had much chance to post, I am overwhelmed by the amount of views I have had its amazing... I went to Fenwicks in Newcastle on Friday and ended up returning with a little more products than I meant to but as you all know when you love a brand and product it is very hard to stop yourself from buying everything!!hehe

 I was extremely impressed by the helpful and knowledgeable staff on the Illamasqua counter, I was very luck to meet Charlotte whom I believe usually works in Cardiff and was doing a store visit this day in Newcastle, She is an extremely talented artist and she spend such a lot of time giving me hints and advice and showing me at least 30 different products.  I came away extremely excited with my large bag filled with goodies.

The products I purchased are as follows:

Powder Blush-Complex, a beautiful terracotta,matt finish

Powder Blush-Intrigue, White highlighter, matt finish

Pure pigment-Chasm

Pure pigment-Static

Liquid Metal-Superior

Lipstick-Drench

Sealing Gel

4 Colour Palette

Medium pencil-Erratic

 To recreate this look I used Superior all over the lid and winged it out to the sides, I then used  Intrigued to highlight up to my brow and blended the colours together using a MAC 222 brush, I then mixed Chasm with some sealing gel and applied to my socket and blended towards my inner eye. I finished with my Bobbi Brown foundation and corrector and concealer and Bobbi Brown extreme party mascara. I used Complex to contour my cheeks and Drench on my lips.  This was a really fun look to recreate

I used my iphone to take these pictures and it really does not do the makeup justice...  All in all I was a big Illamasqua fan before but now I will definitely be attending one of the amazing courses they provide in London.

Bobbi's 5 Secrets to beautiful skin

Bobbi's 5 Secrets To Beautiful Skin
1- Drink Water. Lots of it, Staying hydrated is essential to fresh, glowing skin, so try to drink at least 8 glasses a day.  I take a camelbak bottle wherever I go, which helps me stay on track.  If you've tired of plain water, switch to caffeine-free drinks like herbal tea-I like peppermint and Red Zinger because they're also really good iced.
2-Eat Right. I believe what's good for your body is good for your skin.  I stick to fresh greens, fruits, whole grains and lean proteins like chicken, fish and beans.  And there's the really fun stuff like dark chocolate and almonds, which are loaded with antioxidants and good for you in small amounts.
3-Get moving.It doesn't just build muscles and keep your weight in check-it lifts your mood, helps you sleep better, reduces stress and improves your circulation.  And all of that makes for a healthier complexion, too.
4-Moisturize. No matter what your skin type, all complexions-even oily ones-lose moisture.  The Hydrating line instantly makes your skin look brighter and fresher-and it's the first step for a smooth, even makeup application.
5-layer your products.While I believe people can have generally dry or oily skin, I know that your skin needs change along with the seasons, stress level and age.  On some days, my hydrating Skincare line is all I need.  When my skin feels dry, I add richer products from my Extra Line.  Think of it as a-la-carte skincare

Fashion on the field

The Ebor festival is a huge event in the racing calender and a massive event for York.  .  This year York is offering something a little different for its racegoers...Fashion on the field.  This event is fronted by Debenhams, fashion guru Jeff Banks and Milliner yvette jelfs, you will take to the catwalk in front of a panel of judges including special Debenhams Designers. There will be a Heat Winner each day, who will receive £150 Debenhams Shopping Spree and a bottle of champagne, and each day's Winner shall be invited to return to the catwalk on Saturday August 20th for the Final!

My fiance Luke is a jockey and rides for some amazing trainers so racing is a huge part of our lives and in June I received a phone call from Luke informing me he was on the Knavesmire racecourse at York doing a photo shoot...I was at home with our 3 children doing housework! I am the Makeup Artist and he is normally riding horses, mucking out and attending racecourses to race..but not today there he was strutting around with amazing designers and models.  Luke was chosen to model for Debenhams 'Fashion on the field' campaign with non other than JEFF BANKS.  I was shocked that they did not have a Makeup team on the shoot but the pictures were incredible and with the festival next week I still have not got an outfit, but we have been invited into the private box were the guest designers including Mathew Williamson and Ben de Lisi will be knocking back their champagne so no pressure on me to look amazing 4 months after having a baby.....

For more information check out http://www.fashiononthefield.co.uk/

Mac Cine-matic collection Aug 2011

Lights, Camera, Action...Mac have produced another amazing collection and provided a different spin on this campaign, the Cine-matics beauty lessons.  From working for Bobbi Brown we offer a selection of Make Up lessons which as a brand is a huge part of our job, We aim to teach each woman to be her own makeup artist and I must say I am so pleased MAC are providing the same with these new palettes.  The sets are available in 'Smokey Brown' and Smokey Black.

Smokey Brown Makeup lesson

Be a goddess of the cinema! Tempt with three sizzling shades - Retrospeck, Sable & Showstopper - Zoom Lash Mascara & Technakohl Liner, plus a 212 SE Brush to blend, a 275 SE to smudge & step-by-step instructions. Discover true drama!

Smokey Black Makeup Lesson

Learn how to smolder! Define the ultimate smoky eye with three sensational shadows - Bisque, Ambience & Carbon - Zoom Lash Mascara & Technakohl Liner, a 275 SE Brush to smudge, a 212 SE to blend & step-by-step instructions.  Set the screen on fire!

I have not had the pleasure of seeing the palettes in the flesh yet but i do have each of the individual shadows in my Pro Palette.  I am pleasantly surprised at the retail price of £39.50, Which makes the palettes amazing and affordable, What more could we ask??

'The collection also contains a selection of lip and brush kits.



MAC Cine-matic all over brush set £39.50



The inimitable allure of true stardom is yours: all of the glitz & glamour synonymous with your favourite Dressing Room divas is now available in a series of shades for Lips (along with the BRUSH MUSTS essential to any leading lady).' I do have each of the brushes in the sets but I am loving the bright colours and fun of the mini versions.  These are a real must for any MAC fan who like me has a passion for any limited edition products.

Swatches to follow tomorrow when I purchase these amazing sets!!

Couture Fashion Week 2011-12 MakeUp Review

Couture Fashion Week 2011-12 Review

HAUTE Couture Fashion Week commands outstanding looks and, when it came to the autumn/winter 2011-12 catwalk shows, the maestros of the hair and make-up world certainly fulfilled that order.

CHRISTIAN DIOR COUTURE

Reflective looks were also created at Christian Dior using shimmering discs, of various sizes, applied to the eyelids, brows and forehead.

CHANEL COUTUREAt Chanel, Peter Philips lifted the classic smoky eye look with a glittering jet-black colour.

JEAN PAUL GAULTIER COUTUREThe film Black Swan informed Jean Paul Gaultier's couture collection - instantly conveyed by the show's statement feathered headdresses.

GIORGIO ARMANI PRIVÉWhile ribbon adornments added a geisha-girl feeling to the Armani Privé collection.

Wow, some incredible and inspiring makeup by some very talented artists.  Definitely something to aspire to..Bring on Autum/Winter 2012!!

Behind The Scenes

Bobbi Brown

Tibi Runway look

How to get the look:

Layer Lavender metallic eyeshadow over cool ivory and opal eye shadow.  Keep the liner thin and close to the lashline.  Sweep Rose highlighter pen over Blush to create a subtle glow, Apply Lilac Rich Lip Colour to finish.

Bobbi Brown Peony & Python collection was launched in MARCH 2011 so here is a list of suggestions if you are unable to purchase the collection.

• OPAL Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow-SNOW Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow
• COOL IVORY Eye Shadow-CEMENT Eye Shadow
• COBRA Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow-STERLING Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow
• PLUM ORCHID Eye Shadow-BLACK PLUM Eye Shadow
• ECLIPSE Eye Shadow-CHARCOAL Eye Shadow

Read My Lips

Everything you need for a luscious, kissable pout!

The gloss: Lip polish in 'Melba' £6 by Topshop.  A great trick for looking instantly groomed is to apply a slick of tinted lip-balm.  The coral polish creates a lovely subtle shine and is best worn with minimal make-up.

 

The Plumper: Lip Maximizer £20.50 by Dior Addict.  No need to inject collagen to achieve a full pout-just apply this plumping, moisturising gloss.  It claims to give you more luscious lips in 15 days.

The liner: Lip liner in 'Sandwash Tulle'£15.50 by Bobbi Brown.  A must have for your handbag.  This shade goes with so many neutral  lipstick colours.  It also looks great on its own-simply line the lips and use a finger to blend

The lipstick: Rouge Coco Lipstick in 'Paris'£21.50, by Chanel.  Everyone needs a classic red lipstick  Chanel's range, Rouge Coco, has so many variations on the colour, but this one is particularly timeless.  Apply with a finger to stain lips, or go for a full-on sexy pout.

The Exfoliator: Brown Sugar Lip Scrub, £19.95 by Sara Happ.  Its easy to forget  that lips need looking after just like our skin.  Use this scrub at least once a week to slough off flakes and dead skin.  Lips will be soft and kissable.

The Primer: Prep & Prime Lip £10, By Mac.  Lipsticks can sometimes be drying, so for easy application, richer colour and longer lasting wear use this moisturising base coat.  It will smooth lips to prevent flaky skin and cracks.