Friday, August 29, 2014

Fashion Friday | Floral Fun


Happy Friday! Hooray for the weekend!


Words can't express how eager I am for fall to arrive - the leggings, boots, scarves, and snuggly goodness - I can't wait! BUT it's not time to bust out the over-sized sweaters just yet. Summer is still here for a few more weeks, so we better take advantage while we can.


I'm loving the floral trend that's happening now and thankfully will still be around come time for fall. This floral print, however, definitely feels more spring and summer.


After all, nothing screams summer like floral print, pink lips, and wedges.

So throw on some bright lipstick and put on your favorite summer attire. Here's to the last few weeks of sunshine and summertime!




Outfit Details:

Top - H&M
Jeans - New York & Company
Shoes - Target
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Tuesday, August 26, 2014

2014 Emmy Awards | Aundi's Favorites




Who doesn't love a good old fashioned red carpet round up? I'm breaking down my top picks from last night's Emmy's Red Carpet. There were familiar faces and a few surprises this year. I'm not focusing on the worst of the night, but if you're curious, just google Lena Dunham. Yikes.


Honorable Mentions


In the pink: The Big Bang Theory's leading lady Kaley Cuoco lived up to her million dollar billing on the Emmy Awards red carpet on Monday

Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting looked stunning with her new pixie cut and red floor-length Vera Wang gown. Her makeup was simple and understated, which paired beautifully with her new 'do. The color looked phenomenal on her. My only complaint was that there was too much going on with the dress. Either cut back on the pink detailing or ditch the layers, and she would've been on my best dressed list. The fact that she instagrammed herself stuffing her mouth with a McDonald's burger before the event won her some major bonus points in my book.

 hayden panettiere

Hayden Panettiere was glowing in her sequined Lorena Sarbu dress. The star was beaming with pride as she announced that she is expecting a girl, along with her fiance, Wladimir Klitschko. The gown accentuated her curves and growing belly. And cleavage. Lots and lots of cleavage.



Wednesday, August 20, 2014

On Trend | 90s Inspired Lips



I just realized this week that I haven't touched on the latest trend that has taken the beauty community by storm. 90s inspired makeup looks and tutorials are popping up all over the place, and it's mostly due to Kylie Jenner. 

I posted my own version of Kylie's new signature look on my Instagram several weeks ago.


I, for one, am so stoked on this new trend. The 90s was a great decade for me, probably because I was so young and care-free at the time, but I love all things 90s: the hair, the fashion (who didn't love a great pair of baggy pants?) and especially the makeup. I know some people are already over Kylie's look and the 90s trend in general, but I don't see this trend going anywhere for a while - so why not just embrace it?

Faux by MAC Cosmetics & Naked 24/7 Glide-On Lip Pencil by Urban Decay

This is one of my favorite lip combos of all time and it's perfect for the new ruddy lip trend. I even wore this combo (along with some other products) on my wedding day, which happens to be 3 years ago today! :)

If you're much darker than me, these products will show up more pink on you. If you want to try this trend, look for nudes that are a few shades darker than you that have more brown (or reddish-brown) tones than pink.

What do you think of the 90s trend? If you want to see an entire 90s inspired makeup tutorial, let me know!

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Friday, August 15, 2014

Fashion Friday | Pops of Color


Remember when I told you guys that I'm a jeans and tee kind of gal? Yeah. I wasn't kidding. I'm all about the basics. I do, however, like to throw in pops of color here and there to make things interesting.


I spiced up today's otherwise boring outfit by adding three pops of color. Purple lips are always fun - especially since it's in theme with the Color of the Year! On my lips today is Maybelline's Color Elixir in Vision in Violet.


Another super easy way to add a pop of color is with a statement necklace. While I typically stick with daintier necklaces day to day, I love to pull out my statement pieces every once in a while. I like to buy super affordable pieces at places like Forever 21 or Charlotte Russe.


And lastly, it's always fun to add a surprise pop of color in your footwear. I've never really been a shoe girl, but I have a few colorful pairs that I'll pull out of the closet every now and then. These strappy sandals are from Target - where else?! I would show you a close up, but my toes are in desperate need of some attention, so I figured I'd spare you.


That's it! Three simple ways I like to bring in some color to a simple outfit. Easy peasy, right?

Thank you so much for checking out today's post! See my recent fashion posts all in one place by clicking the Fashion Fridays tab at the top of the page.



Have a great weekend!


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Thursday, August 14, 2014

Top Ten Special Effects Makeup In Film | Collab with AllTheHitsSoFar

I am so excited for today's collaboration with my dear friend and movie connoisseur, Scottie Knollin. Scottie is an accomplished writer, blogger and movie critic. To see his work you can visit his  blog, www.AllTheHitsSoFar.com, or his weekly movie column for Atlantic Station, At The Movies With Scottie. You can also keep up with him on Instagram and Twitter at @allthehitssofar.

Makeup is magic, as MakeupByAundi makes very clear. It can cover blemishes as if they aren't even there. It can change the appearance of the face's form by subtle shadowing and enhancing. It's no wonder that the worlds of makeup and film have collided over the years for some of Hollywood's most glamorous and memorable images. Join me in celebrating some of the greatest moments in Hollywood special effects makeup, then head over to AllTheHitsSoFar.com to check out MakeupByAundi's picks as the most memorable Hollywood makeup icons.






















10. Marion Cotillard as Edith Piaf, LA VIE EN ROSE (2007)
(Makeup Artists: Jan Archibald and Didier Lavergne)

Cotillards' beauty was completely masked by Oscar-winners Jan Archibald and Didier Lavergne as she became every facet of the great French singer Edith Piaf. Cotillard won the Oscar for her career-boosting performance, but much of that award can be attributed to the incredible makeup work done to bring her character to life.





















9. Johnny Depp as Edward Scissorhands, EDWARD SCISSORHANDS (1990)
(Makeup Artist: Stan Winston)

Tim Burton's early classic is everything a Burton film has become known as. It's lighthearted and dark, all at the same time, with visual panache galore. Depp's performance as the elusive and shy Edward is both eery and endearing. The poor guy has scissors for hands. It's the subtle details that are most memorable here, like the small scars that mask his milky skin. Stan Winston was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Makeup.






















8. Michael Keaton as Beetlejuice, BEETLEJUICE (1988)
(Makeup Artists: Ve Neill, Steve LaPorte, and Robert Short)

Similar to Edward Scissorhands that would come a few years later, Beetlejuice was the first introduction into what a spooky, but enjoyable, world Tim Burton could create. With great, 80s special effects galore, Beetlejuice was a great platform for Michael Keaton, as a star, and the Oscar-winning makeup team of Ve Neill, Steve LaPorte, and Robert Short. While Keaton's likeness is still every much part of Beetlejuice's face, the back-from-the-dead subtleties, plus the crazy other special effects makeup throughout the film, makes this a fun and ridiculous ride.




















7. Heath Ledger as Joker, THE DARK KNIGHT (2008)
(Makeup Artist: John Caglione Jr. and Conor O'Sullivan)

Much can be said about Ledger's Oscar-winning performance, especially since the actor passed away before the film even premiered. His Joker is one for the books. The scarred smile and slithering laugh are just the right amount of crazy to fully convince anyone that the Joker was diabolical. The role was crazy and the makeup just right in that his face was messed up just enough to make sense why he would want to mask it with hideous paint to try to cover it up. Makeup artists John Caglione Jr. and Conor O'Sullivan were nominated for the Academy Award.





















6. Eddie Murphy as Various Characters, THE NUTTY PROFESSOR (1996)
(Makeup Artists: Rick Baker and David LeRoy Anderson)

You can argue all you want about the quality of the film itself, but there's no denying that many of Eddie Murphy's movies contain some pretty stellar special effects. Norbit is one of the worst movies ever made, but was nominated for an Oscar for the incredible makeup. The Nutty Professor is significantly better than Norbit, even if it's still just a throwaway 90s comedy. The ability to transform Murphy into countless memorable characters is still pretty incredible. To think that it's nothing more than fat suits and makeup and absolutely no computer graphics is pretty outstanding. Rick Baker and David LeRoy Anderson won the Oscar for their work here.























5. Danny DeVito as Penguin, BATMAN RETURNS (1992)
(Makeup Artists: Ve Neill, Ronnie Spector, and Stan Winston)

A makeup team made up of Ve Neill and Stan Winston, two previous Tim Burton collaborators, with new guy Ronnie Spector, was just what was needed to pull of some of the best effects of the 90s. While there's not any over-the-top coverups, the makeup team transformed Danny DeVito into the Penguin with a few small, subtle changes that elongated his grossness into the realms of the macabre. It's what sets these makeup artists apart from others. Even the grossest of details seems realistic with the right kind of makeup. The team went on to be Oscar nominated for their work on Batman Returns.
























4. Charlize Theron as Aileen Wuornos, MONSTER (2003)
(Makeup Artist: Toni G)

This choice could be a little bit of a stretch. Theron, who won the Oscar for Best Actress for her work in Monster, famously gained 30 pounds for the role. In fact, the most significant makeup work here was mostly just freckling and aging. But, as far as transformations go, even the smallest additional detail changes the course of the work. Theron's performance was unbelievably harrowing and the blonde beauty deservedly won the Academy Award.





















3. John Leguizamo as Violator, SPAWN (1997)
(Makeup Artist: Cindy J. Williams)

There are plenty of unrecognizble makeup transformations that take well-known actors and mask them behind prosthetics and makeup galore to present a character. It was tough to narrow down just one here, so I'm letting Cindy J. Williams' coverup of famous character actor John Leguizamo for Spawn represent the others. Here Leguizamo, who always gives 100% for a role, is engrossed in a completely unrecognizable fat suit and blue clown makeup. Even his stature changes as he takes on the role. The movie itself isn't anything to write home about, but it's a clear example of what this type of special effects makeup can do.


















2. Ralph Fiennes as Voldemort, HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX (2007)
(Makeup Artists: Nick Dudman and Amanda Knight)

I have a confession: I've never seen any Harry Potter films. Let the stoning begin! I have every intention to as soon as possible. But, in choosing this list, I had to venture to even places I hadn't been before. I actually had to do some research, too, because I could've sworn that Ralph Fiennes' makeup as Voldemort was probably mostly digital animation. It is not, unbelievably. Makeup artists Nick Dudman and Amanda Knight somehow take Ralph Fiennes nose away, but he remains a remnant of the actor. It allows for a true transformation while staying honest to who is portraying the character. It's a tough task.





















1. Jim Carrey as The Grinch, HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS (2000)
(Makeup Artist: Rick Baker and Gail Rowell-Ryan)

Part of what's magical about movie makeup is how memorable it can be. Jim Carrey's performance as The Grinch is possibly one of his greatest performances ever. His stamina and physical comedic abilities are front and center. But, when every huff and puff, it's the somewhat adorable pout in his green face that makes him equal parts unnerving and endearing. The Ron Howard movie will one day be remembered as one of the best Christmas movies, just as The Grinch will be remembered as one of the greatest comedic characters. The makeup team of Rick Baker (who's already made this list) and Gail Rowell-Ryan won the Oscar for Best Makeup for their Jim Carrey-The Grinch transformation.  


Scottie started AllTheHitsSoFar shortly after graduating college at the insistence of a close friend. Since earning a degree in Fine Arts from LaGrange College, he's worked in front of and behind the scenes of an array of film/television projects around the Atlanta area. In the winter of 2009, he began a five year stint as a middle/high school English teacher. In 2014 he began working as a producing intern for Between Pixels, assisting in creating concepts, writing scripts, and overseeing film shoots. In his free time he likes to watch movies (surprisingly), eat nachos, treat his dog like a person, and bash Adam Sandler.

Monday, August 11, 2014

My Lazy Day Routine | Hair + Makeup




I think this video deserves the award for 'Most Awkward Hair Tutorial EVER'.


 I will be the first to admit I have far too many lazy days... This is my go-to hair and makeup when I'm feeling extra lazy but don't want to look extra lazy. Ya know?

 I hope you enjoy!


Products mentioned in the video:

Makeup -
NYX BB Cream in Natural
NYX HD Concealer in 02
Milani Baked Blush in Delizioso Pink
ELF Clear Brow Gel
Jordana Best Lash Extreme Volumizing Mascara
Revlon Lip Butter in Strawberry Shortcake

Hair -
Conair 1" Curling Iron
It's A 10 Leave In Conditioner
TRESemme Heat Tamer Protective Spray
CHI Magnified Volume Spray
Batiste Dry Shampoo in Deep Brown

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Friday, August 8, 2014

Fashion Friday | Summer Staples



Hooray for Friday! 

I love this week's outfit so much because I think it perfectly embodies my laid back sense of style (I said laid back style - not personality!). And it's great for summertime adventures! I love wearing basics and sprucing them up with different accessories. 




I have been all about some gold accessories as of late. I love dainty jewelry - especially midi rings. I try to keep them simple, but I'm usually tempted to wear one on every finger. Just call me Phoebe! (Friends reference, anyone?) The necklace is also simple but adds a care-free element, keeping in theme with the overall look. And those gold disc earrings. Sigh. I just can't get enough.




These shorts have been a great addition to my wardrobe this summer. Their high waist makes them versatile, offering totally different looks depending on what I pair them with. I'm pretty picky about how my shorts fit; the last thing I want is to be tugging at them all day. These are the perfect length and hug all the right places, which is a rare find for me!





I hope you guys enjoy the last few weeks of summer! Soak up the sweet sunshine... while wearing SPF, of course!




Shop this outfit:

Sandals - Target (Similar)
Midi Rings - Forever 21 (Similar)

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Wednesday, August 6, 2014

Back To School | Makeup For Teens


It's hard to believe it's that time of year. Several of you have already begun the new school year and some of you lucky ones still have a few days left of summer break.

I've gotten a few questions lately from teens or parents of teens in regard to what products and techniques are appropriate. 

Thankfully I had women in my life to steer me in the right direction during my days of makeup exploration, but I think we all have a picture or two from those days that we look back at and think, "Yikes!" I'm going to narrow down for teens (and parents) what products to look for, all of which can be found at the drugstore so they won't break the bank! You're welcome, Mom and Dad.

I'm writing this with the 12-15 (ish) ages in mind, although all parents are different in determining what and when makeup is appropriate.

Teens, one thing to keep in mind is less is more! Trust me, you'll thank me later on in life.





1. BB Cream or Tinted Moisturizer

One thing you should wear with pride is your glowing, youthful skin! I see too many teens wearing heavy foundation and it looks so unnatural. When you see older ladies (even my age) caking on the foundation, we're trying to get your skin, believe it or not. Your skin will change the older you get, so embrace that beautiful face of yours!

If you have normal to dry skin, BB creams or tinted moisturizers are a great option for you because they give a very natural coverage and make your skin look glowy and healthy. You can apply them quickly with your fingers, so you don't need to buy other tools.


If you have oily skin, skip the bb cream and try a powder foundation like this one from NYX. A powder foundation will keep you from looking shiny but will still look natural on your skin. L'Oreal and Maybelline also make good powders that will give you natural coverage.


2. Concealer (only if you absolutely need it!)

I would only recommend concealer if you have acne-prone skin and deal with breakouts on a regular basis. You want to use a cream (not liquid) concealer the same shade as your skintone to conceal blemishes. Apply it ever so lightly with your fingertip to avoid getting too much buildup and looking cakey. If you're worried about it lasting all day, you can use your finger to dab powder on top of the concealer to lock it in to place.

This Essence Match 2 Cover Concealer can be found at Ulta for around $2.50, but I think this is the only shade. If you are much darker, you will need to find another option. I would suggest the L'Oreal concealer sticks (they look like crayons) because they have a great shade range for all skintones.


3. Eyeshadow

When it comes to eye makeup, the biggest mistake I tend to see with young girls is piling on the eyeliner. If I were you, I would avoid eyeliner altogether. It tends to be too dramatic (and we know you don't need anymore drama in your life!) for daytime, especially for school. These Infallible shadows by L'Oreal (I talk in depth about this one here) are a great option because they're fuss free. You can slick some on your lid with your finger and be on your way. Try to avoid colors that are much darker than your skin. Stick with something that's going to look natural and more flattering.


4. Mascara 

Mascara is the best way to frame your eyes without eyeliner. When I was in high school, I often wore only mascara and skipped out on everything else. (I liked my sleep... not much has changed.) Choose whatever mascara you like best. I love this one by Jordana (and it happens to be crazy affordable at $2.99!).... you can watch my video on it here!


5. Your favorite lippy!

I would avoid lip products that you constantly have to reapply or lip stains that can often be too drying. You will love these Revlon Lip Butters, because they add the perfect amount of color to the lip and apply basically like a lip balm. I like them because you don't have to be too careful when applying them - you don't even need a mirror! 

If you're more of a lip gloss girl, check out these NYX butter glosses. You will love them as much as I do!


I wish you all the best of luck as you begin the new school year!


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Monday, August 4, 2014

Top 5 for $5 or Less


Happy Monday!

No, you're not crazy and yes, I can count - there are six items pictured because I included a bonus! Check it out at the end of the post. :)

I've been working on a list of drugstore faves for some time, and it got way out of hand. There are so many amazing items to be found at the drugstore, but I wanted to narrow it down for you guys today.

These 5 (+1) products are ones that I honestly use in my regular rotation of products. They're not great because they're inexpensive, they're just great and they happen to be inexpensive!

You've probably seen these gems throughout my videos or previous posts, but I wanted to put them all in one place and tell you why I love them so!

L -R: Creme Brulee, Vanilla Cream Pie, Eclair

NYX Butter Glosses | $4.99 at Ulta

Oh. My. Goodness. These very glosses are why I can no longer say that I'm "not a fan of glosses" (I think I've said that in so many videos). These glosses are so creamy and glide on beautifully. They're not sticky or uncomfortable to wear. They can be worn by themselves for a sheer wash of color or can be worn over another lip product to add a nice sheen. These three colors can always be found in my bag and are my absolute favorites - can you tell I have a pinky-nude obsession?! They look great, feel great, and smell great - and they happen to be super affordable. LOVE!


Black Point & Espresso Last


Jordana 12 HR Made to Last Liquid Eyeliner Pencils | $2.49 at Jordana (Jordana can also be found at Kmart and Walgreens)

I have extremely oily eyelids so finding one that is budge-proof is my number one priority when shopping for eyeliners. These liners are so creamy (word of the day, I guess) and super pigmented. They're smooth and not patchy, like most inexpensive liners, and blend like a dream. I typically smoke out these liners with an eyeshadow, but they don't have to be set with a shadow in order to last all day. Amazeballs.


Shade "Translucent"

Rimmel Stay Matte Powder | $3.97 at Walmart
*The price varies between drugstores, but I've never seen it over $5.

This is my favorite setting powder that is so lightweight it doesn't leave me feeling dry or cakey. Obviously the translucent shade gives no extra coverage, but they do offer the product in other shades if you're looking to really build up your coverage. I cannot tell you how many pans I've gone through... I think I'm on my 5th or 6th one. I fly through this product because I use it nearly everyday. It's that amazing. And I don't feel bad about repurchasing so often because it's so affordable!



L - R: Black Cherry, Spicy Cinnamon, Primrose

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipsticks | $4.97 at Walmart
*Price varies between drugstores

These Revlon lipsticks have been a makeup icon for longer than I've been alive. And for good reason. There are a plethora of colors and finishes from which to choose. I love the formula so much that I'm (almost) embarrassed to say the three pictured barely scratch the surface of my Lustrous Lipsticks collection. No matter your style or lipstick preference, you're guaranteed to find a shade and finish you love!

L - R: Haze of Love, Tropicalia, Club Havana, On a Trip

Wet N Wild Megalast Nail Polishes | $1.99 at CVS

The name of these polishes is no joke - they last for an incredibly long time! I would even be so bold to say these are the longest wearing polishes I own. They will last nearly a week before I start to notice any chipping. I also like that the brush is wider than they typical Essie or OPI style brush so it makes painting my nails less of a chore. The formula is so smooth that I often only go with one coat. I can't do that with most of my "high end" nail polishes. These are the only four colors I own, but I intend to buy more. They are often on sale at CVS, RiteAid, or Walgreens, and when you combine that with coupons, you can purchase them for next to nothing. I wouldn't mind owning every color!


Want to see my bonus favorite? It's so amazing that it I dedicated an entire video to it! 


Would you be interested in other drugstore favorites? Let me know!

What are your faves from the drugstore??




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