Jen's bridal party

Jen's bridal party
Most Beautiful Day Ever!

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

LOOKING FOR STOCKING STUFFER IDEAS?!


                                   

                                  Did you know that Simplebeautebydedra Foundation Stick makes great stocking stuffers? Their convenient size is perfect for anybody you want to share the gift of beauty with.        
                                   Simplebeautebydedra Foundation Sticks are
           -super easy to use, just rub on and blend
           -cream to powder for anti shine
           -healing for the skin
           -contain broad spectrum spf 15
           -pore minimizing
           -foundation AND concealer
                                                             
   And right now we are offering a 2nd stick  at half off so you too can enjoy the benefits of this amazing product!!


Also, from now until Christmas, 5% of every purchase will go to The Autism Society of America.  So not only do you empower yourself and a loved one thru beauty but you help the lives of someone inflicted with autism.

Sunday, December 9, 2012

FEEL THE GIFT OF GIVING!


                     



          FEEL THE GIFT OF GIVING

This season we’re reminded how important it is to give.
So for all orders of simplebeautebydedra Foundation Stick placed from now until Christmas we’re giving 5% of everypurchase to The Autism Society of America.
Just log onto 
 Be Beautiful!!

                         

Thursday, November 29, 2012

LOOK SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL FOR THE HOLIDAYS-25% OFF

I want you to look simply beautiful for the holidays and to help you take the "mystery out of makeup" I'm offering my simplebeautebydedra foundation for 25% off! My foundation is so easy to use you could virtually do your makeup it in the car-although we don't advise that.  If you have 1 minute you can protect, conceal and even out your skintone with this one little stick. So give yourself more time for shopping and look beautiful with simplebeautebydedra!

Monday, November 19, 2012

CYBER MONDAY 25% OFF SIMPLEBEAUTEBYDEDRA FOUNDATION!

With the influx of holidays coming it's very easy to forget about ourselves but remember giving thanks for ourselves and our health is as important as thanking our loved ones.  Take 5 minutes out a day and take some deep breaths and relax your body.  Take a short walk thru the park and enjoy nature.  If you can, create a sacred time a day and do a beauty treatment like a mask to treat yourself.  These little steps will promote a happy and healthy you!
And I want to honor you as well.  Today only  I am giving 25% off  my already low price Simplebeautebydedra foundation.  It works great for day and evening.  Is super lightweight but can act as a concealer. And best of all it contains broad spectrum spf 15 to protect your skin.
Look your best this holiday season!!

Friday, November 16, 2012

BECAUSE I'M THANKFUL OF YOU...

Because I'm thankful of you, while supplies last, I am offering my top selling Simplebeautebydedra Foundation Stick for 20% off!!  Also, for a limited time I am giving away the amazing beauty blender with every purchase.  That's a $49.95 value for $23.95!!  Look great for the Holidays!!

Hurry, this offer won't last for long!  Just click the link on my blog. Discounts will be taken at the checkout.

Friday, September 28, 2012

ARMANI DOES IT AGAIN!!

You know I am always loving me some Luminous Silk Foundation and now for Fall, Armani has done it again! Amazing 16 hour waterproof eyeliner.  Eyes to Kill Chic eyeliner pencil is dual ended so it's silky smooth on one end and has smudging capabilities on the other.  Comes in Earthen or Black and lasts all day.




Secondly, you also know I love anything that does more than one thing. It creates simplicity in your life and your makeup drawer and Armani succeeds again with this Easy Chic Face and Eye Palette.  It has all the fall colors that you want in one little case and the quality is unsurpassed using super satiny formulation.
And finally to finish the look, Armani has released 3 beautiful shades of luxurious lipstick which is not only long wearing, try 8 hours, but it comes in this falls hottest colors, plum, rouge and beige.

The only 3 things you need to update your beauty look for fall 2012! Simply and Beautifully.


*beauty tip; putting your eyeliner on first then applying shadow over it will give your look a softer finish and makes your application easier to pull off because the lines don't need to be absolutely perfect.






Monday, September 24, 2012

LOVE ALL NATURAL!!

I love all natural things.  There's nothing more satisfying about creating beauty recipes using simple ingredients.  I recently found a great foot scrub recipe from  Skin Care Recipes and Remedies to remove dry skin.  We spend so much time on our feet they deserve a lot of TLC.  This recipe contains lavender oil which I also use on my body when I get out of the shower and at night on my temples to help me sleep.  Hope this helps your poor peds!!

Salt scrub
Ingredients

1 cup of sea salt or Epsom salt
1/2 cup of cold water
2 drops of lavender essential oil
Preparation

Start off by gradually adding water to salt and lavender oil
As you are adding it, you want to make sure the mix starts looking like a paste. It has to be not too liquid and not too solid, it should be like soft though otherwise it will run between your fingers
Rub your feet and soles in circular motion
Rinse off with warm water



That's it! Super simple.

Beauty tip: Put Vaseline on your feet and wear socks to bed when they are really dry. You'll wake up to soft, hydrated heels.

Do you have any favorite natural beauty recipes that you use?  I'd love to hear about them!

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

THE ONLY THREE MAKEUP PRODUCTS YOU NEED!






So my goal is always to create simplicity in my life-and beauty. Well, simplicity IS beautiful in of itself for sure.  One area to create simplicity is in your makeup bag. Do you need all 15 of those eyeshadows and lipsticks? I say "No!" Here are my three fav makeup products that you need to make yourself beautiful in about 5 minutes or less.  First of course I have to tout my foundation, simplebeautebydedra. It works as a foundation AND a concealer.  It has spf 15 in it and the finish is cream to powder so it sets nicely on the skin and you don't need powder.  My second must have is Smashbox's Cream Cheek Trio. Don't let the name fool you though. This 3 in 1 can also be used on your eyes and lips!  To finish off the list I love my L'oreal False Fiber mascara.  It doesn't flake and is incredibly buildable to really pop the eyes.  Only three products to create true beauty simply!!




Friday, September 14, 2012

SIMPLE BEAUTE-GRAMICCI STYLE!!

So thrilled with my new product, Simple Beaute by Dedra Foundation Stick! It works so well and the finish is so natural.  I recently used it on a shoot for a company I work for, Gramicci.  They are an outdoor, organic clothing company so natural is key.  The goal is to make the models look that they haven't been done.  I think I pulled it off pretty good.  What do you think?  If you want to purchase my amazing foundation you can find it here on my blog or go to my website http://www.simplebeautebydedra.com.
 Beauty Tip: Remember when applying your foundation start in the center of the face and blend outward. That will leave the bulk of the product where you need it most and keep you from having that dreaded line of demarkation!!


Wednesday, September 12, 2012

SIMPLY SENSATIONAL!!

The Jurlique special I mentioned from the Today Show is here!! This deal will only last til tomorrow and it is Simply Sensational.  These products will change your skin.  I promise!!
Click Here to enter

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

JURLIQUE, SO SUPER SIMPLE!!

Looking at my skin lately it didn't seem as if I was getting enough moisture.  I was using my moiturizer but it wasn't working.  Then I had an aha! moment.  Jurlique, so super simple!  I pulled out my Fruit Enzyme Exfoliator and bam! In 5 minutes my skin was bright, glowing and ready for action.   As with all of Jurlique's products it contains natural ingredients to promote healing of the skin.  No harsh chemicals like other lines.  So you get all the benefits of a peel without the pain and sting of stripping your skin. It also has Sodium Hyaluronate to balance and maintain skins moisture level.  All this in one 2012 Award winning bottle!  If you have five minutes you can change the look and feel of your skin.  Simply and beautifully!

Monday, September 10, 2012

DARK NAILS FOR FALL!!




Last week we saw Michelle Obama looking truly radiant with her hair, makeup and wardrobe done to perfection.  What she also had that was going on was  on her nails.  A very popular color for fall, a blue grey color called "greige."  But not only Michelle has it going on.  Last week the runways were teeming with girls and their trendy nail colors. The thing I love about nail color is that for the most part they're inexpensive so you can get the latest colors and feel hip without breaking the bank.  Essie has some fun colors shown here

And so does Nicole and OPI.  All of these can be found at Target with prices from $7-$8.50.

The key to wearing a dark shade is to keep your nails on the shorter side and shaped nicely.  Try and keep them all the same length as well.  It will add a cleanness thats super chic and cool.
If you're unsure about a color try it on your toes first before you dive into the finger nails.
It's fun to be daring though so don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and go bold. After all, it's only nails!

Are there colors you'd like to try for Fall but are too afraid to try?  I'd love to hear about them in the comment section below!



Thursday, September 6, 2012

KIM KARDASHIAN- UM, NOT SO SIMPLE

With Fashion Week kicking off last night in NY we have been inundated with photos of fab people.  These shots of Kim Kardashian looking not so simple struck me.   They were taken as she headed to the "Du Jour" Magazine party and I'm sure heads were turned.  I personally think she looks beautiful.  I always love the color combo of black and white and she's been working it a lot lately.  I love how her body fills this dress and I love the cut-outs creating the "art deco" style.  I like how she did keep her makeup clean and simple and her hair pulled back.  Letting her figure do all the talking.

What do you think about Kim's look? I'd love to know!!


Beauty tip:  To keep your makeup looking even and fresh try my new foundation "Simplebeautebydedra Foundation Stick." It works as a foundation AND a concealer.
 Find it here or on my website http://www.simplebeautebydedra.com

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

MICHELLE OBAMA-SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL!!

Everyone is talking about Michelle Obama's speech last night at the DNC.  It was powerful, moving and resonated with so many people.  I could definitely relate to her memories of early family life with Barack when they had very little money and found it hard to make the bills.  So many of us in this country have fallen on hard times this past few years.  Without the support of friends and family I'm not sure if my husband and I would have made it.  Michelle spoke about being true to yourself and that it's ok to ask for help if you need it.  That Barack is the same person only better because of the challenges he has had to face as president.  All of us can rise to any occasion and meet it if we honor and allow ourselves to do so.  I always speak of looking in the mirror and finding something you "like" and play that up.  Not diminishing ourselves.  On the lighter side, Michelle looked flawless.  Her makeup was done to perfection.  Beautiful, clean skin and light eyes.  She glowed from the inside out.  Her hair was soft and feminine with just a bit of pizzaz in the side flip. And her dress was understated and elegant.  She exuded a confidence and inner beauty that cannot be bought.  Simple and beautiful!

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Saturday, September 1, 2012

BEAUTY BALMS-LOVE EM!

So I have had this discussion with you before but I think it's a great one to revisit.  Beauty Balms-love em!  Why? Why not?  They are so easy to use.  They work really well because they are highly concentrated.  Best of all for all you jet setters, they make travel super easy!  Right now Koh Gen Do has brought their amazing balm back for fall.  It moisturizes dry, spent summer skin and revitalizes worn, brittle winter skin.  It is packed with anti-oxidents so it heals and protects.  It's versatility on dry lips, cheeks and body is what makes balms so unique.  I'm always looking for simple, beauty products to make my hectic life less strained and with this one it surely helps.

What do you look for to simplify your life? I'd love to know

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

KELLY RIPA SIMPLE BEAUTY

I've always thought Kelly Ripa was really beautiful.   She's like an all american girl with a great sense of humor to boot.  Recently she snapped a picture with one of her besties Anderson Cooper while on vacation in Croatia.  I thought it was so great that she posted this "au naturale" shot because so many celebs hate to be photographed without makeup.  Just shows her pure confidence and I find that to be a great message to send out to other women.  Funny that I am a makeup artist, beauty junkie and coming out with my own cosmetic line, however I never wear much makeup and I am a huge advocate for natural beauty.  You just can't bottle it!  I guess what I'm trying to say is keep it simple.  Less is more.  Highlight the positive and shine!  That kind of confidence cannot be recreated!

Any celebs you think shine naturally?  I'd love to hear from you!!

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

FACE OILS FOR WRINKLES!!

I am here once again speaking about the dreaded "w" word.  We all hate them but there is hope!! Face oils for wrinkles!!  The one thing that many of us try and stay away from is probably the best thing for the skin on our face.  Why? Because they maintain the integrity of the lipid barrier.  What's that? Well, lipids are fat molecules that give our skin plumpness.  Over time they dwindle.  Face oils actually feed them and are like anti-oxidents in a way.  Protecting our youthful appearance.  One of my favorite face oils is by Tarte.  It's called Maracuja oil.  It works on so many levels.  It contains essential fatty acids to repair and hydrate skin as well as Vitamin C to promote brightness.  All these ingredients in one little bottle makes simple beauty, simple!

Thursday, August 9, 2012

KEEPING SUMMER SKIN SUPPLE!!

During these summer months it's hard to keep summer skin supple.  Lotion after lotion doesn't help.  Our skin still looks cracked and dry from the sun and chlorinated  pools.  Following are two tips that I have found to really work on your skin.  Firstly exfoliate!! Either with a loofah or even better if you have a Clarisonic, taking the larger body brush and working it all over your body especially the heels of your feet and elbows.  I also really like the Salux Japanese body towel. It's great for hard to reach places like your back. It lasts for months and is just the right amount of roughness for gentle exfoliation.  The second step is after bathing while your skin is still wet apply a nice body oil all over and allow to soak in before toweling off.  I love Trader Joe's Lavender Body Oil.  It has a spray cap for all over ease and the price is great at like $6.
These two tips can change your skin from scaled to silky in a short time.  Simply and beautifully.

Do you have any favorite tricks to creating supple, summer skin?  I'd love to hear about them!

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

LOVING YOURSELF "AS IS"!!

So I spend much of my time talking about products and tricks to enhance one's appearance. Or alter something about yourself that you feel needs to be altered.  Today I am reminded of a very simple philosophy that I try(when I remember) to live by. Loving oneself "as is."  I think this is the most challenging of all principles to follow.  We are constantly bombarded by media, social and otherwise, telling us that we aren't good enough as we are.  That we need this, that or another to be "better."    And many times it feels good to make these changes but  for today, let's look in the mirror and pick something we really like about ourself and focus on that.  Something that doesn't need changing or altering.  Make that your mantra for the day.  Every time throughout the day that you feel doubt about something, remember that one thing in your appearance that is working and focus on that.  By changing our focus, little miracles begin to happen in our life. Simply and Beautifully!




Tuesday, August 7, 2012

BECOMING A DIVA!!


Wanna become a diva? Or just look like one?  Well if you have curly hair that has lost its umphf, diva it up with Deva curl.  It's this great new hair care line I discovered.  It gives frizzy hair shape and moisture.  It smells great and is paraben free, sulfate free and is free of dyes and perfumes.  Best thing about it is it really works.  This summer has been so brutal on my hair thanks to the chlorine and sun and all my tricks weren't working as well as they do.  I got turned on to this product line and I love it!  They also make anti-fade shampoo and conditioner specifically for girls who color their hair.  With something for everyone, this line makes "simple beauty" simple!

Thursday, August 2, 2012

CONTINUING ON A THEME-SUMMER HAIR!!

     

Found this great article on Stylist.com.  Thought I'd share it with you.  I love Moroccan Oil.  Smells divine and works great too!! 


Many women balk at the idea of intentionally putting oil in their hair for fear of potentially greasy results, but hear us out: It's a miracle worker for taming dryness and frizz, but also amazing at balancing oilier hair types. It can add shine to dull hair, work as a styling agent and even undo a summer's worth of damage. Need we say more? Check out our guidelines to find out the best hair oils for your hair type, then flip through through the gallery below to see our favorite oils:

Repair fried hair daily:
Hair oil disguised as a styler is an excellent way to sneak in extra moisture and tame unruly hair. The key is to focus on the ends. Apply mid-way through your hair and work down. There's no need to add oil to the roots -- no matter how dry your hair is, it will end up looking greasy. You can also find shampoo formulations that include oil, which will also add a boost of much-needed hydration. Especially for hair that's color-treated or has just seen a lot of sun, salt water and chlorine this summer. Look for out these nourishing oils: argan, coconut, avocado.
Add shine to blah hair:
Lightweight oils like sweet almond, grapeseed and camellia will add an overall healthy sheen without weighing fine hair down. They're also great at targeting cowlicks and random flyways.
Apply a hot oil treatment once a week:
A nod to popular at-home deep conditioners of the '80s, there are now self-heating blends that offer the same ultra-hydrating results. You can expect to see shiny, smoother hair after just a minute or so. Opt for ultra-reparative argan or jojoba oils.
Keep oily hair in check with ... oil:
Rose geranium, orange and tea tree essential oils are fantastic at controlling an oily scalp. Add a few drops to your shampoo to help balance oil production.

Wednesday, August 1, 2012

WHAT COLOR LIPSTICK SHOULD I WEAR!?

With all the great colors out this summer it's hard to know what going to look the best on you.  Here you'll find simple guidelines for what color lipstick you should wear this season.

If your skin tone is fair...
Try a neon pink lipstick or a light peach-y coral color. And for fair skin with a slight tan, it's best to compliment lips in sheer peach shades with a light bronze pearl. These tones will warm up fair skin.
If your skin tone is medium… 
 Vibrant, orange tones with golden, deep or bronzed skin tones and warm coral and orange shades enhance medium tanned skin.
If you're skin tone is dark…
You'll look great with bright vibrant hues and coordinating lip pencils.  Or for contrast use the gloss nude lip which is always in fashion.
A few things we should all keep in mind...
Enhance your overall look with a dewy sheen: If you do choose a super-pigmented shade, contrast classic matte lips by adding a bit of glow to your complexion.  For a lighter coverage on hot summer days try a tinted moisturizer, or add a bit of illuminator mixed with SPF or moisturizer.
Always remember, a lip pencil will get you far. It will help your lip shade stay in place for hours!

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

POST SUMMER HAIR BLUES!!

So as we slide into the last month of the summer-technically the last month, I'm looking at what sad shape has become of my hair. The color has washed out care of the sun and pool. The moisture went bye bye as well and the bounce has definitely lost it's sizzle.  If you can relate and I'm sure you can here are some tips to regain some hair composure.  First, a nice trim always is in order. Oh, what a 1/4 of an inch off can do! Second, beat up some egg and drizzle a bit of honey into the mixture and apply that all over the hair for 10 minutes before shampooing.  Lastly, if you can't make it in for color I love Clairol demi permanent colors at Sally Beauty Supply.  They are mild, non toxic and add great color to fading flocks.  The girls there are very knowledgable and can help figure out the best color for you.  At about $8 you can't beat it. Turn that frizzed, fried summer hair into autumn goodness simply and beautifully.

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

A REAL SIMPLE BEAUTE-KYLE RICHARDS!!



I recently had a conversation with Kyle Richards from The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills (no duh.) I actually know her personally and although we initially got off to a rocky start-if you don't know why watch season 1 of the show, I have grown to adore her over the past couple of years. Not only is she funny as hell, she is truly beautiful, right up close and personal!! I wanted to ask her how she does it. She always looks polished in a very organic way-like she rolls out of bed naturally looking so good! She is an amazing mother and wife and is able to juggle her career and family so seamlessly it leaves us all with mouths agape and wondering how she does it. She is the quintessential modern woman! In my behind the scenes interview I found out just how she does it!!





1.  You are incredibly beautiful, what is your daily beauty routine?  Is there one product you swear by and can't live without?


My Mom always taught my sisters and me to take care of our skin and hair. I love the clarisonic brush because it really gets all the make up off. No matter how late I get to bed , I always go through my routine. My husband does not understand or like that it takes 20 minutes just to get my face ready for bed. First the cleaning, then my creams. You do not need to use expensive creams for the face. Just what works for you. My Mom used Nivea and had the best skin ever! I change what I use all the time but always keep my skin moisturized.


2. I know you've been  getting really fit and you look great. What have you been doing to get so svelte?!


My weight has always been my battle. Up and down all my life. If I am thin then I am eating too little and exercising too much. It does not come naturally! I gained a lot of weight during season 2 of RHOBH and after that decided "That's it!" I started spinning again (which I love) and hiking in the hills near my home. I gave up sodas in December and try to avoid carbs and dairy. Emphasis on TRY ;-)


3.I think inner beauty is far more appealing than outer beauty and I feel that is the case with you. People that know you know you have a wicked sense of humor and are really down to earth.  What is your philosophy for maintaining such lightness and positivity?


I truly believe that laughter is the best medicine. My friends know that I will do anything for a laugh. Like doing the splits on a table at a cocktail party! ;-)

 4.I think whats so great about you is that you have such healthy relationships with all your kids and especially with your husband Mauricio.  How have you managed to balance your career and the needs of your family to make all of them feel as special as you obviously do?

When I decided to do RHOBH , my husband and I made a pact. If the show ever started taking away from our family or started creating and negativity between us, I would walk away. My family knows they come first. ALWAYS.

5.Lastly, do you have a favorite ritual that you do to ground yourself and help you to create inner peace?

To me the things that bring me peace are the simple things in life. Being outdoors with my kids, teaching Portia how to plant strawberries , and LITERALLY taking time to stop and smell the roses!


So true Kyle!  The most important moments are always the simplest.  My thanks to Kyle for sharing a part of herself with us.

You can see Kyle on her hit show The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills this fall on Bravo.  
Follow her on twitter @kylerichards18


 







Monday, July 23, 2012

THIS MAKEUP PALETTE TAKES THE CAKE!!

With time to kill at the mall today I stumbled upon this makeup palette that takes the cake at Sephora!  It's by Smashbox and most appropriately called "The Master's Palette."  It was created by Smashbox artists combining  the loads of shadows and glosses in their kits and putting them into a nice, convenient  palette. I know what they were talking about! I spend more time looking for products in my kit then actually putting them on! Here you have all the shadow colors you need-there's 28. There's also 4 brow colors, 8 cream eyeliners, 2 blushes, 3 highlighters and 4 lip colors!! The best thing about it, besides the quality is the price.  Ready for this? 59 dollars. Crazy good. Run, don't walk, over the Sephora and pick yourself up one.  Talk about Simple Beaute!!

O MILEY O!!

Found the cutest picture of Miley Cyrus on http://www.huffingtonpost.com the other day.  What a cutie!  I think she is growing up so beautifully.  She  really invested in her health and well being and it shows!   I have to say, I personally am loving her simple style. Very Californian. Age appropriate and sweet.  Her skin looks vibrant with a nice dewy glow and a nice lip stain to give a punch of color to the pucker.  Must be the Gluten Free Diet she follows!  Love it!