Lancome Sourcils Gel eyebrow gel: REVIEW!

Well it's another Lancome product review! I find myself becoming quite the fan. Lancome is a ubiquitous beauty hall staple, and as such, does get picked on for being "bland". True, their packaging and products don't call for much drama, and when they do try drama (cf. that rose petal highlighter or the big glitter palettes Lisa Eldridge designed) it never convinces. What I like about Lancome is that when they have a good product, it sticks around (no impetuous limited edition games with their staples) and it works. I have always had their effarcernes concealer on hand - and their Bifacil makeup remover, and their eyeliners and lipliners are always reliable too. Previously, indeed, I liked their Crayon poudre for eyebrows, in the shade Taupe. This review is for their latest eyebrow product, a gel pot, called a waterproof gel-cream or by its proper name, "Sourcils Gel". At the same price as their pencils but containing a generous 5g of product, it's a great buy. Let's look at the shade 04 Chatain (French for chestnut). I picked this up going by google images from blog posts, and I'm thrilled with it.

My favourite product for brows is still probably Billion Dollar Brows powder in Taupe. I find the shade so lovely and I like the soft powder retro look. It's long wearing and creamy and it seems to last in its pot too. Having said that, it's 2g and I've already hit pan twice - there's no denying this Lancome will outlast it. And it's a very similar shade:

 

It's got the same minky richness that is so hard to find in a cool brown (they often tend to be greyed or flat yellowed tones, this seems almost mauveish if that can be). The Lancome Chatain is denser/ more concentrated than my Billion Dollar Brows Taupe. Compared to MAC brow gel it's less creamy, but similar in concept. The shade I have in MAC is beautiful, but it's a far more simple and rich darker brown - shade: Deep Dark Brunette.

 
I love the MAC one, but for every day I favour a more blonde look overall. As brunettes with highlights know, if you pick a deeper brow you look more brunette, and if you pick a lighter one your highlights stand out more...Such is the science here at Ooglemakeup blog Towers. 🤓

I also have another much-enjoyed pencil which is more in line with the darker MAC gel, though a softer effect. I believe it's discontinued but it's the Dior sourcils poudre in the shade Sable. (They seem to be renamed...?)

 

Swatches: Dior powder eyeborw pencil in Sable, Lancome powder eyebrow pencil in Taupe, Billion Dollar Brows powder in Taupe, Lancome Sourcils Gel in 04 Chatain and MAC Deep Dark Brunette brow gel

 

Swatches as above, with Illamasqua Wolf eyeshadow at top for colour reference

At £19.50 I really think the Lancome gel is a brilliant and worthwhile alternative to powder pencils and powders which do run out fairly quickly with everyday use. I use an angled brush and only need a touch. The best thing about this is the shade which is very soft and natural, yet it adds impact to the brow. It also applies well over both the brow hairs and the skin itself. Sometimes I do think that a dark true brown suits me best as it makes my brown eyes stand out, but in surroundings where most around me don't wear much makeup, I find myself reaching for natural tones and effects instead. One of my favourite eye shadow shades is Wolf by Illamasqua. It has that - yes, wolfy - rich brown. Illamasqua Wolf, Lancome Taupe crayon sourcils poudre and this Sourcils gel in Chatain, all have that true, vivid cool brown that so often isn't translated into makeup properly. One thing which is strange about the Lancome gel and it's even more intense in other shades, is the presence of glitter. One never thinks of it, but brow hairs do have a gloss to them. Anyway, I've not noticed any glitter once it's on, only when I swatch it. I'm sure that if anything, paradoxically, it adds to the natural effect.

This lasts all day and really is waterproof (workouts, rain, humidity). In fact the only negative is that it's harder to take off than my standard brow powders. A small drawback - more than compensated by its performance.

Top marks

...Have you tried this?

My favourite highlighters!

"Wow, you look great - Glowing!" I beamed with gratitude at this praise... but knew I was indebted to my Guerlain Sun in the City, which - despite it being a 2012 collection, had only just been unveiled at my local counter.

"Thank you, it's my new highlighter", I explained. A puzzled expression ensued; I had forgotten most people are not makeup addicts and think of stationery when told about highlighters...

The episode made me realise: I haven't shared my favourite highlighters!!!

Well as an Estee Lauder doublewear foundation addict, I have always had to put the glow back in. Doublewear is amazing for oily skin but it does make one look rather flat. My favourite highlighters are those which look dewy and moist and gleaming (as opposed to frosty or glittery).

My first encounter with a delightful, almost liquid finish, highlighter was Guerlain Cruel Gardenia. Apparently one can still find this at airport Duty Free so be on the lookout! This is probably my favourite... Well gosh, no all these are favourites. I have others, namely liquid ones and cream ones, but I've found that for longevity and that liquid effect, the gelee type formula AKA extra dimension (Estee Lauder and MAC terminology respectively) are the very very best.

 

 Guerlain Cruel Gardenia - a pale petal pink, almost a champagne rose

I don't like lilac pinks and purples, but a soft warm pink works well. I find lilac tones like NARS Luxor or Urban Decay Afterglow make my pale skin look like a gleaming corpse. I prefer looking like I have the angelic heavenly light of pure sunshine.

I sold my MAC Whisper of Gilt, I've spoken about this before - it was amazing - but I did get the latest evocation of MAC's delicious Extra Dimension skinfinish formula, Oh,Darling. It's a close cousin of Whisper of Gilt but not quite as wonderful. Having said that, once I got my hands on Anastasia So Hollywood, all mourning for Whisper of Gilt ceased. So Hollywood is paler than Oh,Darling and has that very slight murmer of pinky peach about it which I so loved in Whisper of Gilt. Oh,Darling is a gold with a burnt orange murmer rather than a pinky peach one. It almost gives a tan effect. The gleam on all these formulas makes them all exquisite regardless of shade tones.

MAC Oh,Darling beneath Guerlain Cruel Gardenia. Notice shade tones pink v gold

Anastasia So Hollywood (third swatch) - notice lighter than MAC Oh,Darling

As I was saying, I only just got my hands of this, and it's got to be the grandaddy of these wet look highlighters! I imagine Guerlain was the first to seize upon this formula. At any rate, look out for MADE IN ITALY and the ingredients: "GLYCERIN" and also often "SQUALENE". These two moisturising and skin-loving ingredients seem to be the secret to finding winning formulas.

Guerlain Sun in the City - the most true gold. Notice more clean gold than MAC Oh,Darling

I tried to swatch Guerlain Wulong powder next to the Sun in the City (5th swatch) but it's rather faint. On the face however, Guerlain Wulong; Guerlain meteorites and pressed meteorites; Laura Mercier Secret Brightening powder; Benefit Powderflage, and the Estee Lauder loose powder from the Cyberwhite range, all give soft glowing finishes and in photos as well as real life, they make a huge difference.

Swatched here (below and between MAC Oh,Darling and Anastasia So Hollywood) I've tried to show Becca loose pigment in Hyawatha (which I pressed into a pan) but it's rather hard to detect. These are in the category of all over brightening veil rather than strategic highlighters.

Staying with loose pigments, MAC pigment in Vanilla is another safe bet. It's a pale gold with a pinky duochrome reflect.

A guilty pleasure of mine is Illamasqua Beguile pigment. It's rather gritty and sandy textured, and let's face it it's essentially a loose glitter - but I love the way it looks like drops of water. It looks terrible in daylight and rather garish at the best of times, but for nights or evenings when you feel joyful and want to let the magpie spirit free - it's such wonderful stuff! It's white - but reflects blue and green and pink and purple and gold...!

Illamasqua Beguile; MAC Vanilla 

 A frustrating and futile exercise trying to capture the mesmerising glitter of Illamasqua Beguile - here in artificial light

I must mention - without veering into favourite glowy blushers of course - the beauty of Laura Geller Blush n Brighten. I have chosen Pink Grapefruit here. I threw away all my MAC mineralised blushers! I used to adore the likes of Daft Pink and Moon River (youth, sob) but now I can only bear the super refined powders. MAC mineralised blushers and, to a lesser extent, the Milani baked blushers, are not as flattering anymore. I also like the texture of Too Faced Pink Leopard which is a similar peachy shade. I often use these lightly with a fluffy brush, as all-over brighteners when I am especially pallid.

Second row shows Too Faced Pink Leopard, Becca Hyawatha, Laura Geller Blush n Brighten in Pink Grapefruit

Top row top to bottom: Guerlain Sun in the City, Anastasia So Hollywood, MAC Oh,Darling, Guerlain Cruel Gardenia. Second row top to bottom: Laura Geller Blush n Brighten in Pink Grapefruit, Becca Hyawatha, Too Faced Pink Leopard

Artficial light, L-R: Guerlain Cruel Gardenia, MAC Oh,Darling, Anastasia So Hollywood, Guerlain Sun in the City

Collections decided by popular demand! (but hurry)

I love this, power to the people wooooo (Etc.) Bobbie Brown recently concluded her 'Bobbi Brings Back' lipstick initiative. Consumers, bereft of their favourite shades - that were so mercilessly axed - suddenly have a surge of hope. Votes were collected, and the deed is done. The 6 formerly moribund shades are now to be revived with a flourish. But hark, these shades will be available "for a limited time". Plus ça change, eh? Similarly, MAC have unveiled possibly one of their most exciting collections (unless you are an ebay seller specialising in hiked up priced LE fodder...) 'MAC By Request'. Here's the press release:

This time you decide! First time ever M·A·C are producing a limited collection created for and by the M·A·C fans. A selection of eighteen most requested, cult classics and iconic shades, will be put up to vote on M·A·C’s Facebook page. Giving another chance for those fans out there to bring back and get their hands on the most wanted M·A·C shades!

The shades to vote on include:

LIPSTICKS

EDEN ROCKS

First seen: launched in May 2000 and then made permanent. Discontinued in February 2011.

CANDY YUM-YUM

First seen: launched in Quite Cute collection in April 2011 and was the fastest selling shade in a collection in 2011

MOXIE

First seen: launched in September 1999 in the Retro Matte Lipsticks collection and then was made permanent. Discontinued in March 2011

SHITAKI

First seen: launched in the Cuisine collection in March 2001 and was made permanent. It was discontinued in February 2011

ROCKER

First seen: launched in the Time Rocker collection in 1999

3N

First seen: launched in the N collection in January 2008, then Warm and the Cozy collection and lastly in the Post-Holiday collection in 2009

LIPGLASS

EMANCIPATION

First seen: launched in the Wonder Woman collection in February 2011

FLASH OF FLESH

First seen: launched in the D’Bohemia collection in May 2005

ICESCAPE

First seen: launched in the Love Lace collection in December 2009

BAIT

First seen: launched in the Lure collection in June 2006

CULT OF CHERRY

First seen: launched in the Cult of Cherry collection in September 2008

2N

First seen: launched in the N Collection in January 2008 and then the Warm and Cozy collection and the Post-Holiday collection in 2009

EYE SHADOW

MOTH BROWN

First seen: launched in the Madame B collection in March 2000

GUACAMOLE

First seen: launched in the Salsabelle collection in May 2005

SOLAR WHITE

First seen: launched in the Cool Heat collection in June 2008

COOL HEAT

First seen: launched in the Cool Heat collection in June 2008

JETÉ

First seen: launched in the Danse collection in January 2006

HEAVENLY BLISS

First seen: launched in the Eden Rocks collection in May 2001

The three shades with the highest number of votes from the Lipstick, Lipglass, Eye shadow categories will form the M·A·C by Request collection that will be made available in October 2012 exclusively online, www.maccosmetics.co.uk

Voting commences on the March 12^th until March 30^th

...Check out this very excellent comparison post for swatches to help you decide! I adore Moth Brown and Solar White eyeshadows, and I am desperate to see what the fuss about the N series was about - and definitely want to have Dita Von Teese's favourite, Moxie, back in stock! The only downside is that, once again, it will be limited edition - and only available online. Oh well, it's a start!

I must hand it to Illamasqua (again) though. Not only do they so far eschew this abhorrent practice of discontinuing items and of making L.E a point of principle, they have also launched a very impressive section of their website called 'Socialise'. I have to say, I loved that Illamasqua had a humble 'blogspot' and I always enjoyed the posts. But I admit that now, as part of the official website, it does look simultaneously extremely professional and fun. The absolute best thing about Illamasqua is how they keep up with their customers and react to each and every demand. Their new live swatching is nothing short of a revelation! Such an obvious idea, taking its cue from 'live catwalks' as per ASOS, and applying it for makeup! And I see they are also keen for swatch donations - send in your swatch pictures and even further enrich the virtual experience. Human Fundamentalism is the new Illamasqua collection, and although I've not tried it yet, I love the manic mash up of imagery - a huge dose of 90s bungled in with tribal african elements, and an ombre hen just to spice it up. They even have an old lady - with wrinkles! Shocking stuff. Taking its cue from normal people really has become Illamasqua's calling card.

Check out the collection here. They have even brought back their statement mission to make blue lips 'stick' (so to speak) but I remain for the time being unconvinced as ever... despite Alex Box claiming this particular teal tricks the eyes... I will be seeing it for myself and will report back....! The eponymous Fundamental palette, with its unusual mix of colour and texture, definitely is on my hit list.

In conclusion, I think it is great that modern consumerism means companies have to bow to The Peoples' Will, and I think it is ambitious but overwhelmingly admirable, that Illamasqua have in their latest collection, attempted to distill what modern cosmopolitan hybrids mean today. The only drawback is that Illamasqua campaigns are often so ambitious and complicated that they risk looking messy and intimidating for the average sorry 9 to 5er. All in all though, the collections all look very exciting - and that's the bottom line.

...What do you think of this sudden surge of trying to capture our favourites and let the dog have its day?

I've added a poll up there

The Happy Birthday that would have been...

It's always tremendously sad when a 'lost' birthday comes around. Today would have been Sophie Lancaster's 25th Birthday. I have already blogged about this horrible attack. I applaud Illamasqua's attachment to the cause, and the ironic belligerence of their message: "Stamp Out Prejudice Hatred and Intolerance Everywhere" (S.O.P.H.I.E) will be a never-ending project, but with enough awareness perhaps it just might work. Find out more about Illamasqua's involvement by watching this film.

You can also win a selection of Sophie-inspired pieces, which if she had still even been in her goth phase, she would have surely loved! You'll get the S.OP.H.I.E black pencil, Pure Pigment in Zeitgeist, Intense Lipgoss in Repulse, Nail Varnish in Unnatural, False Eye Lashes in no. 21, and the S.O.P.H.I.E Wristband (as pictured above.) Click here to enter. Winner will be announced on 28th November.

Illamasqua Debut Fragrance sounds interesting....

"I am bottled Midnight," promises the advert.


The bottle sits on its side and has a sweet silver snail perched on top. There are lots of octopuses in the Alex Box artwork. It's a unisex fragrance (these are usually my fave) and it's an EDP! It's £59 for 75ml. Out from 20th October in time for Halloween, it's already available to pre-order online. To celebrate the imminent launch, you could win tickets to the Masked Halloween Ball organised by The Last Tuesday Society which is now sold out! It looks so much fun, I'm jealous. You get 2 tickets, £200 spending money, and a dance lesson on the night! To enter this competition and be in with a chance of winning a place on the guestlist to the decadent party, simply visit http://www.illamasqua.com/maskedball/

But HURRY! Competition closes online at 11.59pm GMT Wednesday 19th October 2011. Winner to be drawn at random and notified on Thursday 20th October 2011. This competition is open internationally.


TOP NOTES: Black Davana, Opium Flower and Belladonna bewitch the senses into uncontrollable lust and passion.

HEART NOTES: Poison Hemlock, Datura and Queen of the Night blossom, caress and kiss.

BASE NOTES: Aromas of Frankincense, Oud and Myrrh, addictively mesmerises and captures the senses.

Flitting playfully from floral to a woody balsamic, the rich and exotic opening notes of Black Davana casts a magical spell of desire across the senses. This compelling burnt orange bloom base is highly prized the world over for its ability to enhance the wearer's natural perfume. The subtle mustiness of Poison Hemlock haunts the background tone of Freak, adding alluring depths of mystery. Datura, the Moonflower, an intoxicating scent that has long been used as a heady aphrodisiac. The exquisitely rare Queen of the Night blooms fleetingly for a single night each year, and completes this daringly provocative concoction with its warm, soft floral scent touched with sweetness.

Screen Siren for one evening

Another event I will not be able to go to, but it sounds so fantastic I don't want anyone else to miss out. Illamasqua will be teaming up with The National Portrait Gallery to set up as a film studio for one night only, providing makeovers worthy of your debut.

That's right: at the door you pick up your 'NPG contract', then enter the 'NPG Film Studio' and you're escorted into one of seven 'star-making departments' for a vintage glamour makeup transformation. It's inspired by the National Portrait Gallery's current exhibition Glamour of the Gods: Hollywood Portraits.

"Pose in a black & white photography studio and visit The Broken Hearts Cocktail Lounge for drinks, swing music and cabaret.

You can also go to the movies and watch Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, hear talks on gender, clothes and beauty, take part in vintage styling and drawing classes and participate in a Vintage Twitter Bureau @NPGGlamour with vintage typewriters.

A drawing class will show the art of making Gloria Swanson's Marcel Waves, setting Lauren Bacall's rollers or greasing James Dean's slick back with specially styled models (as well as providing expert advice on how to draw and learn a good hairdo!) In a gallery based debate Is Gender an Illusion? clinical psychologists Dr Polly Carmichael and Dr Victoria Holt will explore notions of identity and unpick the confusion of chromosomes."


It's on FRIDAY 7th October [6-9pm]


**All events are free but tickets are required for some activities and 20% of Illamasqua’s Vintage Glamour course will be available on the day.


Illamasqua have just been nominated for 'Best Brand Blog' in Cosmopolitan's 2011 Blog Awards! I absolutely love their blog, check it out here to read about the NPG event. I always enjoy their posts as you often forget it is a Brand blog at all. It's one of my favourites and I will definitely vote for them. You can too, at this link:
http://www.cosmopolitan.co.uk/blog-awards-2011-vote

Illamasqua: Free Shipping!!! And UPDATES...

Alex Box recently featured in Stylist magazine. Her brief: to represent her favourite Art movements via makeup. A task made for her! The images chosen reference Cubism, Dadaism, Post Modernism, Romanticism, and Baroque.

My favourite is the Dadaism,



followed by the Post Modernism,



There's also an interview with Alex Box.

In other news, more clues regarding the long-anticipated first Illamasqua perfume...due to launch at the end of October.

"We are very excited to introduce the new aptly named FREAK to you very very soon, but to whet your appetite, I'm going to let slip the following...

... it's a sexy, sultry Eau de Parfum

... Freak is a concoction of dangerously exotic unconventional flowers which we have unashamedly blended together to celebrate the night...

... we have three Limited Edition products that glisten and glow to help you reveal your inner Freak, inspired by the freak's midnight blooms."

I am so intrigued to hear what these flowers are - I'm thinking and hoping something like Annick Goutal Mandragore? And those limited edition glistening products sound good!

In the meantime, until this Sunday 18th September, ALL UK orders will receive FREE UK Standard delivery! If you don't have Beguile, you need it - and Depravity. The latest collection is the best yet. Go to Illamasqua website now. For UK orders just enter AWUK at the checkout and enjoy!



*Pictures from Stylist magazine.

Illamasqua Theatre of the Nameless is out now... more hauling

I promised that as soon as Illamasqua released this collection I would be right back for Berber pigment. This evening I passed by the Beak St flagship store for its 1 Year anniversary, and thought I'd quickly share what Berber looks like worn sedately.






I also picked up a BACKUP of Beguile as I have used it every day since I got it, as a face highlighter. It is surprisingly subtle and I swear every time I wear it, cars stop to let me go by and people generally seem to appreciate my "natural" glow. Seriously a beautiful pigment and very unique. The makeup artist used it here as an inner eye highlight.

I also snatched up Raindrops nail polish for a fiver. I really like it! It's a dove grey with sparkle.



(By the way I am wearing Havoc Precision ink liner as well.
*Sorry for the rushed pics but you get the idea...)

Illamasqua Theatre of the Nameless - Review and Swatches!

I think I always say, "This is the best Collection yet!" but seriously - this is great stuff!!! Illamasqua's previous collection, Toxic Nature, had some real standouts (e.g I still wear 'Delirium' on a regular basis) but somehow there was not the real punch of grim darkness that Illamasqua do so well. This time, there is no compromise: Illamasqua give us the perfection of murky, dark sparkle. Exciting shades and a really expansive mix; a very balanced collection. There are - Two new blushers; three new lipglosses (one, a rosy pink called 'Belladona' is an online exclusive); a new mascara - sorry, Masquara - three new pigments; two new cream pigments; a new lipstick; two false eyelashes, and four new nail polishes!

This is Theatre of the Nameless, the new collection which looks to Germany in the 1920s for inspiration, with Weimar period icons such as Anita Berber, the doomed flame haired scandalously androgynous actress, to the Boot girls who colour co-ordinated their shoelaces to their talents. This dubious source was quickly forgotten as David Horne, the talented and charming artistic brain behind it all (as handpicked by Alex Box) exclaimed as he sprinkled a load of Pure pigment 'Beguile' in the air and all over his lovely dark suit jacket, "I just thought it was hilarious how they colour coded their boots like that." Indeed, seen in the abstract, it is quirky and translates well into the range of rubber finish ("like candle wax") nail polishes. There's 'Taint' (stone brown) 'Kink' (bottle green) 'Vice' (deep cerise) and 'Faux Pas' (blue violet - as seen on my nails below.) Check out the competition to win these HERE (Hurry - competition ends on Sunday 4th!)

The new Precision Ink in 'Havoc' is described by Illamasqua thus: "Havoc lets you scrawl hidden messages across your naked flesh, to be discovered at midnight by your secret lover." (So excuse me if this post is rushed.) As yet at the time of writing I can only attest to its powers as an eyeliner. I wore it all day today, through an unexpected heat wave and a great workout at the gym, and this held up as excellently, as expected. Previous incarnations have been brilliant, and this is actually my favourite so far. It is aubergine but very dark, only a glint of aubergine - too much red purple makes my eyes look very tired. I highly recommend it and it was on my wishlist, so when I saw I'd been given one I couldn't believe my luck!







'Havoc' lined below, contrast it with my top black liquid line.

The Pure Pigments are truly captivating, I have come to realise that Illamasqua pigments are very distinctive and not similar to MAC at all, they are much finer (they do not 'ball up') and they almost remind me of a MAC Reflects pigment but with a heavy pigmented base. I received 'Beguile' and at first, seeing its unapologetic glittery sparkle, I mentally relegated it to 'strictly for inner eye only.' But in the interests of fair experimentation I tried it as a face highlighter. David Horne described it as having a wet, water look to it. But his jacket said disco frenzy. However, on the face I am shocked to report that the glitter is so very fine that it really does take on a wet shine. Wet shine is so hard to achieve with a dry pigment! And unlike 'Static' this eschews a purple duochrome for a green glint.







My only reservation is, seeing the state of my other Illamasqua pigments, how to keep it neat? (does anyone have any tips? My pigment always flies out when I open them.) The other Pure Pigment, 'Berber' is a brilliant - again, David Horne's words: "Rust shot through with Absinth." It's a deep brick red but with very noticeable lime green sparkle. Although red is usually so hard to look good in, I think the green will really help make this a flattering yet showstopping shade. The depth of colour is magnificent. Then there is 'Zeitgeist', a black pigment with tons of sparkle. It is like a true black version of 'Android' (another fave.)

The Cream pigments are 'Androgen', a slightly reddened coral which works equally as a beard cover up or a blusher; and 'Depravity' which I wore today and LOVED. Purple is my favourite colour, and this is my favourite version of purple. Purple eyes can be very old fashioned, especially lilac, but this is a vibrant pinky purple that is very young. I wore it with no base and it faded to a pinker shade, which I still adored, and it didn't crease much at all. I have found that some of Illamasqua's Cream pigments crease very quickly (e.g 'Dab') but others, like 'Delirium' and now 'Depravity' last fairly well even without a base. I will in future probably wear 'Depravity' over a primer to keep it looking its best though. I am even going to break my 'no-matchy' rule and wear this with magenta purple tomorrow.









'Depravity' above, after fading for about 5 hours to a more pink hue

The blushers reminded me of NARS Sin and Oasis or Orgasm. They are both shimmer blushers, 'Ambition' is a neutal tone but very shimmery; 'Morale' was a very attractive wine shade with just the right shine to it. The packaging looks especially good as that big pinched square compact. The new lipglosses are 'Facade', which is like a liquid version of 'Hollow' pigment; 'Violate' which is supposedly in their sheer range but goes on a wonderful deep green sparkle, just the right side of brave. The two eyelashes are 'Grandeur', a sumptuous black flicked design; and 'Weimar', of which only 500 have been made (and this is the only L.E item in the collection.) The Weimar lashes are black and extravagant, with red tips which almost glow in the light. Very daring yet also very wearable. Aside from the dark purple blue lipstick 'Kontrol', everything seems very wearable - and yet still subversive. This is exactly Illamasaqua's forte.

I cannot wait to get myself 'Berber' to add to my collection.

Theatre of the Nameless is out now online, and launches across counters globally on 8th September.


-Full Product details and Prices -

Nail Varnish, £13.50

• Taint (Stone Brown)
• Kink (Bottle Green)
• Vice (Deep Cerise)
• Faux Pas (Blue Violet)

Cream Pigment, matte £17.00

• Androgen(Coral)
• Depravity (Magenta)

Masquara £15.00

• Raven (Midnight Black)
  

Pure Pigment, metallic £15.50

• Zeitgeist (Dark Shimmer)
• Beguile (Light Shimmer)
• Berber (Auburn Shimmer)

Precision Ink, £17.00

• Havoc (Aubergine)

False Eye Lashes, £16.00

The Theatre of the Nameless brings two new lashes to our extensive handmade range of styles and colours – the fluttering, tapered extravagance of the aptly named Grandeur and the thick, long, luxurious Blackened Auburn Weimar.

Shimmer Blusher, £16.50

• Ambition (Neutral)
• Morale (Rosed Flush)

Intense Lipgloss, £13.00

• Façade (Grey Pink)

Sheer Lipgloss, £13.00

• Violate (Dark Green Shimmer)

Lipstick, £15.50

• Kontrol (Blue Violet)

~Thank you to Illamasqua for a wonderful preview evening, not to mention the delicious Weimar cocktail!

Sophie Lancaster: Remembered and Celebrated

After listening to the heart-wrenching Radio 4 Afternoon Play - Black Roses: The Killing of Sophie Lancaster I felt I 'knew' her a little more. Sophie Lancaseter died 4 years to the day, 24th August 2007. The radio programme did an impeccable job bringing her to life, beyond the flat image I had of a rebellious "mosher"/"goth"/"emo". With carefully composed poems by Simon Armitage, Sophie is seen as warm, eager, intelligent and full of spirit and hope. The black clothes and dreadlocks were indeed, as Illamasqua has it, an "alter ego." It is therfore a perfect commemoration to her that Illamasqua has championed her cause; given her name and the eponymous Foundation a great deal of publicity - and ultimately, to stand for bold colour and a quirky, brave makeup style.

Hearing Sophie's mother Sylvia was very difficult. I know from personal experience that losing a loved one is almost impossible to bear; listening to her remember the dreadful memories, "It were horrible, it were horrible" - her lilting northern accent emanated such pain. It is clear that in her brief life Sophie had a wonderful mother, one who supported her when -let's face it- most mothers would be livid! Sylvia said that when Sophie decided to be a Goth, far from being an outsider, it was actually the moment she began to belong.

Being a Goth is part of a clique and has its own set of rules, just like being a yob (not sure what they call themselves?) or any number of different identities that are not unique. The trouble is, Sophie and her boyfriend Rob were not out to harm anyone, maybe Goths do enjoy that frisson of the stuffy soberly garbed who pull away as they walk by, but that is the extent of their aggression. The yobs who killed Sophie were literally young bored teenagers - some only 15 years old. Fights happen all the time, and heads are kicked in. It is usually GBH but sometimes the miracle return to health does not happen. It happened with Rob, but as a slight, small 5'1, Sophie Lancaster did not get the lucky recovery. People forget - be it through abusing their own body with drugs, alcohol, bad diet, or beating flesh and bone - we are not made of steel and life is fragile. Even with the recent riots, it is these same aimless young teens who feel so bored and so bereft of hope, that anyone with a forceful self-worth and imposing identity, would be a provocation.

I was in tears as Sylvia recounted Sophie's death. The absolute senslessness of the crime, which as the judge said, was like a pack of animals hunting, but here for no purpose at all. Reading the transcript of the 999 call is nothing short of agonising. I just hope in prison these criminals have been educated, as according to reports at the time, the accused and his mother were laughing about it?! It is Illamasqua's aim to help raise funds for the SOPHIE (Stamp Out Prejudice Hatred and Intolerance Everywhere) message with interactive school based Youth Workshops and games, to avoid this ever happening in future.

Please check out the newly commisioned video here to find out more.

Killing off the Competition

Illamasqua again... I have just read about their new competition and think it sounds great!

They also have a short film to illustrate this process of literally "killing off" your old self. Vicky McClure is a fantastic model for the brand, and gives a characteristically stylish and compelling performance. I just wish she didn't smoke in the adverts, as I really don't think smoking should be associated with Beauty, and they have done this over and over now! Nevertheless, it was very interesting to watch the behind the scenes and of course the final edits. By the end, I really did want to buy the exciting new products, though it seems this is more of a retrospective on Illamasqua's existing line - there is a new mascara on the way however. The close-ups of the makeup were casually done, and all the more powerful for it. Combining Beauty and Death and Violence is always oddly effective.

If you want to win a brilliant prize, which includes "Staying in a luxury London hotel whilst attending exclusive events like London Fashion Week, the Illamasqua fragrance launch, a course at the Illamasqua School of make-up Art, an alter-ego makeover with a key Illamasqua make-up artist, a shopping spree worth £500 with a personal stylist and tickets to top London shows for you and a friend" - then all you need do is delete all your photos and painstakingly assembled Facebook profile (don't worry, you can keep your friends.) It is so hilarious and sadly true that your Facebook profile is your public self and altering it is so intrinsic to your actual self. I don't have a Facebook anymore - probably because of all that! - but maybe I'll quickly mock one up for this to tear it down?! How very postmodern. If you can actually hold the nerve to deleting your Facebook profile that is indeed as dramatic as Death and Murder to many. But do the winnings might make it worthwhile? I will be interested to see how this most unusual competition turns out.

...Thoughts??

Dead Beautiful

"You look like death" is set to become a compliment, as Illamasqua's latest enterprise is to revitalise (so to speak) the trend for open casket funerals. Illamasqua have teamed up with established funeral directors 'Leverton and Sons', to offer "The Final Act of Self-Expression."

Illamasqua artists who are up to it, will be specially trained. I had never thought about it, but as the body is dead, not only are all lively natural colours eliminated, but the way makeup is absorbed is utterly different and very tricky indeed. The skin can take on an oily appearance, aside from its grey and weirdly relaxed new guise (yes, the silver lining is that muscles are relaxed so you get that botox effect.) Sometimes, car paint is used, or other rather morbid special makeup which won't need body heat to break it down. Illamasqua apparently will use existing formulas but I am not certain of the details. What is clear though, is that Illamasqua are keen to break away from the old-fashioned, and frankly not glamour or art orientated manifestations of mortuary "feature setting." Generally, the idea of embalming and making up a corpse was, at least initially, simply intended for mimicking (and inevitably failing at) the recreation of a person as they were in life. This interesting video shows actor Richard Wilson's experience at an embalming school.

Illamasqua make life easier (or is that, make death easier) by turning the theatrics on. Their promo image depicts a worryingly young victim, with bold red lipstick and bold blue eyeshadow. A somewhat scandalous idealisation of Death. The lady lies defiant in her casket, not a serene sleeping being as of yesteryear's made up bodies: this is a proud and carefully thought out final moment by which the true makeup fan says 'adieu'.

Would I have it? I must say no. For one thing, I would not be able to live with the knowledge that once I was dead someone else would be tasked with doing my eyeliner just right - and if they don't, no one will be there to chide them. Illamasqua do offer to go through the look with you in advance, and as such I would have to be best friends with my artists to trust them to that extent! Personally I would never get an open casket, so my views are redundant anyway. I think in US open caskets are more common than in UK. I tend to think death is best kept hidden as far as possible, and the time for flaunting your makeup is in life. But, if you did heaven forbid get snatched away before your makeup stash is emptied (ok so that's all of us) then maybe it would be nice to think it gets one last outing?!
...I am undecided on the concept, what about you?

I do think it's a great idea though, and gives the brand yet another edge.

Illamasqua continue to Establish themselves!

Illamasqua, the self-proclaimed rebel of the makeup landscape, have announced a rather Establishment "Distinction in Make Up Artistry Awards 2011" opportunity.

And it is fantastic. Reassuringly stringent, the competition sounds like it is destined to be the marker for makeup excellence . It is for those either enrolled in, or graduated from, a recognised makeup course. With the world and their auntie claiming inherent makeup skills and brandishing their Youtube channel as evidence, I think it's great that this is limited to those who clearly intend to direct and devote their working lives to the makeup industry. Illamasqua have already held numerous popular contests for the everyman, this heralds something entirely different.

For the chance to win incredible career opportunites and thousands of pounds in cash and Illamasqua products, check this link for all the details. The judging panel is extensive: a huge chance to shine in front of all the right people - including Katie Shillingford – Dazed & Confused Senior Fashion Editor (yes her of the fabulous and famous two toned hair that looked so brilliant we all wanted it) and of course Alex Box, and many others to inspire you to do your BEST.

You must register as an Illamasqua Professional before 31st May 2011. Entries must be made by Friday 26th August 2011.

...Good Luck!!!!

Illamasqua Toxic Nature Collection: Review!

Illamasqua recently unveiled their Spring/Summer 2011 Collection, "Toxic Nature." Inspired by the ash cloud that wrecked havoc last year, and the general theme of nature being corrupted by pollution and natural disaster, the colours include a neon green inspired by the colour of toxic gas. But the general feel of this collection, masterminded by the charming David Horne, is of a natural, grungy palette. I loved the colour scheme and I think people who have previously written off Illamasqua as too avant-garde, will find a lot to appreciate here.

The 6 new Cream pigments (£17) are rather like MAC paint pots, but less dry and more adaptable to use on the hair (yes, really!), cheeks, lips, as well as eyes. The colour Delirium in particular, reminded me of my favourite MAC paint pot, Girl Friendly. The other shade I have is a very pretty, girly, soft pastel lilac - nothing remotely gothic about this delicate shade!

Described as:

A new matt formula that can either neutralise or dominate. Create the ultimate in textures whether it’s on your face, eyes, or body, bringing a flash of colour to a subtle contour. “The power of the products in this collection is evident in the intensity of the Cream Pigments they are intense, raw colour but blend down easily exactly like an artists paint palette.” Alex Box.

• Emerge Peach (EU Exclusive)
• Bedaub Mint
• Dab Lilac
• Hollow Toffee
• Delirium Rose Taupe (EU Exclusive)
• Mould Grape
  

The star item had to be the delicate nude sparkle Precision ink liner (£17), Glister, a liquid liner that can be used as an eyeliner or a highting pen. Alex Box's images had a cupid's bow outlined with this.

There are also two new lipsticks, a bright flattering and dare I say classic hot pink, (Atomic) and a modern but still very wearable orange coral. (Flare) (both £15.50) These are complimented by a soft sheer lipgloss each, Torture, a coral, and Divine, a hot pink tint. (£13)

For many, the most exciting will be the 5 new nail polish shades. Illamasqua has become known for its high quality formulas. Stagnate, the colour I was given, is yet another Chanel Particuliere, but, like skinny jeans, this is a trend that has become a classic. It has a high shine and wears very well. The other shades are:

• Purity Peach
• Bacterium Pearlescent Ash Ochre
• Radium Acidic Lime Shimmer
• Stagnate Grey Mauve
• Gamma Neon orange

(£13.50)My favourite has to be either the shimmery yellow tinged lime of Radium, or the irresistable complexity of the almost silver duochrome Bacterium.

And finally, Illamasqua once again joins forces with nail impressario Mike Peacock to introduce the Toxic Claw (£35.) I am told that this nail set will not be a constant - next collection will be lashes! And apparently upcoming collections are set to shock us once again...

For now, enjoy the tame face of Illamasqua. Available online from March 10th, and March 17th at UK Counters. April 2011 at Sephora. My favourite thing about Illamasqua is that they are one of the only makeup ranges that eschew Limited Editions. All items will thankfully be available without the imminent threat of extinction.

P.S. Be sure to visit the Illamasqua website for the chance to win your favourites from the range - register and join the waiting list for your desired Toxic Nature shades. 3 winners will be sent all of the items from this wishlist.

Illamasqua "Throb" for a bawdy Queen of Hearts!

Valentine's Day makeup collections are somewhat twee... That is, until Illamasqua hijacked tradition and made it a bawdy, seductive treat!

With the nail polishes alone "Throb", "Load" and "Scorn" describing an average Saturday night reveller's progress, the stage is set for the new Illamasqua Collection: "Throb".



Left to right: "Scorn" polish, "Load" polish,(£13.50) "Succubus" gloss,(£13) "Sangers" lipstick, (£15.50) "Throb" polish. (£13.50)

Mills & Boon have ensured that Throb will not simply mean, despite Illamasqua's intro: "Feel your pulse quicken, your heart throbbing in your chest". But for once, their cheeky product names have a context. I always think of Valentine's Day makeup as sweet and innocent, all about rosy cheeks and a lip stain - but here we have an inspired Alex Box created masterpiece, where the literal heart shape is echoed everywhere from the face to the lips to the nails.

I was sent "Succubus" lipgloss, a great name and the warm blood red in the sleek clear tube oozes a bold glamour that positively dares you to be provocative.

 
After having bought a few pencils in the fantastic sale going on right now in Selfridges, I feel well equipped to say that Illamasqua pencils and glosses are their absolute strengths. In fact I see no difference between Guerlain's super pigmented glosses and Illamasqua's - and that is not a comparison I would make lightly! The Succubus gloss is not too sticky, yet lasts hours (without staining lips!) and is intense, shiny and smells lightly of berries.

Although as I age I veer further and further away from bold lips (sob) I absolutely adore the vibrancy of this collection and the way it invites Valentine's Day to become a day for female empowerment rather than be meek and pretty in pink yet again.

Might I suggest Illamasqua "Katie" blusher, for delicate Louis XIV era pale pink cheeks? I have worn this with the "Succubus" and it just slightly takes the vixen edge off, without losing the threat altogether. But here is the product list of the official look:


Cream Foundation 100
Rich Liquid Foundation 115
Powder Foundation 105
Powder Blusher in ‘Disobey’
Powder Blusher in ‘Intrigue’
Pure Pigment in ‘Furore’
Powder Eye Shadow in ‘Heroine’ [on cheeks and eyes]
Powder Eye Shadow in ‘Sex’
Cream Pigment in ‘Emerge’ ** NEW for SS11 collection! **
Eye Liner Cake in ‘Mislead’
Sealing Gel [for eyebrows]
Precision Ink in ‘Abyss’
False Eye Lashes '021'
Lipstick in Sangers
Intense Lipgloss in Succubus


Illamasqua Throb collection is available from January 17th 2011 in Illamasqua’s Flagship Store; Selfridges London, Manchester, Birmingham; Fenwick Newcastle; Debenhams Glasgow, Belfast, Cardiff - and online at www.illamasqua.com. Plus look out for the Selfridges exclusive gift set, which adds in a blindfold and the promise to "make her throb" all for ahem, £69.