Key Makeup & Hair Artist for the latest Issue of Milk & Heels Online Magazine - Spring/Summer 2015 Edition
Spring Summer Skincare Swap
Now that spring has finally sprung in Toronto and we've gotten a taste of what's to come this summer, it's time to re-think our skin care regimes! Especially when it comes to moisturizing - Even though temperatures are rising, if you're at least 20 years of age & up, it's still important to keep skin well hydrated during the spring & summer. As we shed our winter garments, we should also switch up our skin hydrators to lighter-weight lotions, gels & whipped creams that absorb quickly & won't feel heavy on our skin during warmer weather. The products I've chosen to feature below are a great range of moisturizers that are ideal for warmer days ~ Some contain added benefits which also combat harsh elements our skin encounters during the summer, such as pollution. I'll be doing a separate post on Sunscreen infused hydrators next month or you can check out my previous post on UV friendly products HERE. Leave a comment below to let me know which brands *you prefer to use when warmer temps roll around ;)
Behind the Scenes of Garnet from Spot 6
A brief behind the scenes clip of me & Garnet from Spot 6 Models in our element ;) Video by: Tavis Gordon
Makeup & hair: Sherlyn Torres
Photographer: Allysa Cervantes
Model: Garnet @ Spot 6 Management
https://youtu.be/KpAJpE9hrjE
S/S 2015 Runway Makeup Trends
Below are some of my favourite makeup trends off the runway from select top designers' Spring/Summer 2015 fashion shows...
I love the overall minimalistic approach the artists took with pops of colour and minor focal points. I've always been a fan of clean makeup with a slight bit of edge. Some looks were borderline bare which will be a definite relief in the hot summer months.
I'm personally looking forward to sunkissed skin and rocking minimal looks with just liner or bold lips. Share your thoughts below to let me know which ones you'd be willing to try ~ I'd be glad to suggest products that work best for your coveted look ;)
“Say goodbye to your little zit”
Date: The morning of your date with the cutie from work
Time: 7:00 a.m.
Setting: Your washroom
Scene: Your alarm goes off. You stumble towards the washroom with your eyes half closed... After washing your face, you squint into the mirror to find a bright red zit living on the tip of your nose!
The coward thing to do: Hide under the covers until the zit goes away.
The hero thing to do: Scour your beauty stash & treat it!
Step 1: Use a mild (sulfate-free) cleanser infused with an anti-bacterial agent, like tea tree oil.
Step 2: Run a q-tip under warm water and dab onto pimple to open up the pore.
Step 3: Use the other end of the q-tip to dip into your spot treatment* and apply onto zit.
• Go for a treatment with B vitamins, tea tree oil, salicylic acid or purifying clay. If you have none of the above, a dab of seabuckthorn oil can do wonders! (just keep it very minimal)
Next…Camouflage it! (if you opted for clay, be sure to rinse off first)
Step 1: Go for a lightweight moisturizer that is free of heavy oils - dermalogica's active moist is a great one to have on hand.
Step 2: Apply light layers of concealer with a small synthetic brush to cover up the imperfection. Be sure to use a patting motion and go for an acne treatment infused formula to continue the healing process.
Step 3: Set with a mineral-based loose powder so the concealer stays put. *Bonus: The zinc from the mineral powder is also an anti-inflammatory ingredient, which will keep redness at bay.
By end of day, hopefully the blemish would have shrunk significantly so you won't have to skip out on your date ;)
Comment below to share some of your tips for maintaining a clear complexion and which products you swear by...
Zaliris (Next Models) - Get Her Beauty Look
Photographer: Tavis Gordon | Model: Zaliris Next Models | Hair: Caffery Van Horne | Makeup: Sherlyn Torres | Wardrobe Stylist: Olivia
Shot on location: South Beach, Miami
Get the look:
• After moisturizer, I applied Lancome La Base Primer (1) • Then mixed Bobbi Brown Foundation Sticks in Warm Honey & Golden (2) • A very small dab of M.A.C. Gloss Texture on the eyelids (3) • Set the foundation w/ a sheer translucent powder from M.A.C. then used Yves Saint Laurent Blush & Contour Brush (4) to emphasize Zal's cheek bones with NARS bronzer in Casino (8) • Applied Dolce & Gabbana Cream Eyeshadow in Cocoa (5) on outer v • Applied a generous amount of M.A.C. False Lashes Mascara (6) • Small strokes of D&G Softbrown Eyebrow Pencil for naturally defined brows (7) • Finished off the look w/ a small dab of Yves Saint Laurent Creme de Blush in Praline Soyeuse (9) on lips • On Body: Pacifica Island Vanilla Body Butter Mixed w/ Mambino body Oil & a pinch of M.A.C. Iridescent Loose Powder in Golden Bronze
Makeup & Hair - Blackberry Commercial
Makeup, Hair & Grooming work for a recent Blackberry Enterprise Software Commercial.
I also did a very short cameo towards the end lol See if you can spot me ;). It's tougher than finding Waldo! So I'll leave you with a hint below...
[embed]http://youtu.be/msL0UQqtRL0[/embed]
Schwarzkopf Got2B & Dial Innovations Event
Recently joined Langton PR for another fun product launch! The event was held at The Storys Building ~ A spacious, loft style room with a ton of character.
The two brands showcased were Dial & Schwarzkopf's Got2B. Both had equally exciting new additions to their roster of already sought after products.
My first stop was Dial & their latest innovations...
Loved the set up of all the new offerings, amidst fresh cut flowers, complimenting the bottle packagings. I was immediately drawn to the Miracle Oil products ~ all infused with Marula oil (known for its intensely hydrating and skin healing properties). I'm constantly on the lookout for products that won't strip my skin's depleted moisture at the height of winter, so I was delighted to see that majority of the products focused on maximizing hydration!
After experiencing the wonderful array of scents, placed in shot glasses and set in front of each bottle, I stopped at the washing station to test out the Miracle oil gel. My hands felt really fresh & clean and didn't feel uncomfortably dry. The marula oil left an immediate softening effect but didn't leave a nasty film. An excellent choice of oil since marula is quite stable, meaning even after processing, it maintains a lot of its natural properties. It's also incredibly lightweight and soaks deeply into skin.
[left]
Next up is one of my long time favourite brands for hair - Schwarzkopf's Got2B. After speaking to one of the reps, I was a little dissappointed to find out that one of my go to's has been discontinued :( [Cashmere Hairspray - a flexible hold spray that smelled absolutely divine]. But she re-assured me that their new additions are equally awesome with even more benefits!
[/left]
[right]
[/right]
Before lining up to the get my hair done, I met some great people, mingled a bit & made a pit stop at the DJ booth to say hello to a familiar face - DJ Lissa Monet :).
She always knows how to liven up a crowd and has impeccable taste in music ~ So happy to see her!
The lineup subsided at the hair stations so I decided to test out the products first hand. I rarely style my hair these days - mainly because it's super long & time consuming (really need a hair cut! lol) It was a nice treat to be on the receiving end of getting styled & pampered :D. The stylist who took care of me also happened to be a lovely gal I met over the summer while working on a wedding gig.
[left]
[right]
[/right]
Thanks Isabella, for the product knowledge & lovely hair style!
I spent the remainder of the night meeting & mingling with fellow beauty enthusiasts and conversing with the lovely ladies of Langton PR. Also managed to snap a few candids ;):
And snuck a quick mirror selfie before taking off...
Below are some photos I took at home of the hefty swag bag takeaway & it's contents...
Here are my faves from the event...and yup...they all smell wonderful!
• Got2b Mind Blowing Range ~ Formulated to speed up styling process and make at-home blow outs a breeze! Combine all three or any on their own. Pictured below (from left to right: Quick Shape Mousse, Fast Dry Hairspray & Xpress Dry Styling Spray)
Step 1 - Quick Shape Mousse reduces your blow dry time & increases style ability with its Iconic+ System Technology. The formula not only adds volume but also boosts shine. Apply to roots of damp hair before blow drying - I usually blow dry my hair upside down to lift the root area ~ this tip particularly works better on shoulder length or shorter hair. Retails for $7.99 (227g)
Step 2 - Xpress Dry Styling Spray works with damp hair as well to expedite drying process while protecting hair from heat and keeping hair from tangling while blow drying. A must for my super long, easily tangled hair! Apply to towel dried hair and blow dry using a round brush. I specifically want to test this out for stick straight styles as it boasts a sleek & ultra shiny finish. Retails for $7.99 (177ml)
Step 3 - Fast Dry Hairspray is the finishing touch. Ionic+ Power and Micro-diffuser technology offers fast drying time & flexible hold so you can run your fingers through your hair without any sticky residue. I would suggest to use this one mainly for curled styles for a flexible, crunch free & bouncy hold. Always hold hairspray 8-10 inches away from your hair to create an even spray coverage on your strands. Retails for $9.99 (340g)
• Dial's Men & Women's New Range of Moisturizing Shower Gels ~ All Formulated for maximum moisture and infused with a variety of delicious & fresh scents. Pictured below (from left to right: Coconut Water & Mango, Omega Moisture with Sea Berries, Miracle Oil with caring Marula Oil, Dial for Men Fresh Reaction Body Wash. So far, I've been using the Marula Oil infused shower gel but can't wait to try the other equally yummy scented options. Also convinced my other half to try out the Fresh Reaction and he totally approves! Shower gels retail for $6.99 each (473 ml) / $3.49 for the hand washes (221ml).
Quick tip: Use a bamboo cotton based (shower gel) mitt for a comfortable scrub and the ultimate lather ~ a little on the mitt goes a long way!
What are your first impressions of these products? Would you give them a try? What are some of your favourite brands of hydrating shower gels & hair styling products? Leave a comment below ;)
Actra Awards - Makeup for Arisa Cox
One of my favourite clients & good friend, Arisa Cox hired me to do her makeup for the 15th Annual Actra Awards held at The Carlu, Friday February 20th, 2015.
We prepped at the beautiful Park Hyatt Hotel in Yorkville and was later joined by another familiar face, Jason Ruta :D. It was pretty much a mini E! News reunion with a ton of laughter and catching up over food & drinks...
The above photo was taken w/ my trusty old 20D and as usual, Tavis Gordon added his magic touch to the photos :)
Here's a few more pics from the night (iPhone snapshots this time):
P. Reign - 'You Know' Behind the Scenes
Behind the scenes photos I shot for a new music video I worked on with OVO affiliate P. Reign. The song is entitled “You Know” and is the second single off of his debut album "Dear America". The video was filmed in Toronto and features his sultry wifey Natasha Diamonds :D ~ It's a sweet ballad dedicated to his long time girl and was appropriately released just in time for Valentine's Day!
Click HERE to view the final video.
Credits:
Artist: P Reign | Directed by: Davin Black | Styled by: Muska | Makeup by: Sherlyn Torres | Hair: Amanda Tacus | Produced by: The NE | Shot at: Pie in the sky studio
P Reign - 'You Know' Music Video
Newly released video I worked on with OVO / Reps Up artist P Reign featuring his wifey Natasha Diamonds entitled "You Know" (Off of his debut album Dear America).
http://youtu.be/ygvOvKG_xZE
Credits:
Artist: P Reign | Directed by: Davin Black | Styled by: Muska | Makeup by: Sherlyn Torres | Hair: Amanda Tacus | Produced by: The NE
Vita Liberata - Product Launch at Montecito
The timing couldn't be better for the launch of Vita Liberata's latest additions. The weather has been dreadful as of late :/ and no doubt has taken a toll on most Torontonians' complexions!
Last night was especially chilly but well worth the outing :) Another great presentation by Vita Liberata founder, Alyson Hogg whom I've had the pleasure to meet last fall for the launch of her luxury self-tanning products at the Thompson Hotel ~ see products below:
Back to last night's festivities ~ This time, the event was held at Montecito Restaurant, chosen by host Langton PR and situated in the gorgeous upper floor lounge. The perfect venue to compliment the equally chic products showcased to the room full of beauty experts.
The first product demoed is a pretty revolutionary one in the realm of bronzers. This is the first time I've been introduced to a loose mineral bronzing powder with the additional benefit of leaving a lasting tan on the skin. The tan develops over a 4 to 8 hour period and lasts 5 to 7 days! The DHA is in crystal form and gets activated by your moisturizer and or foundation.
I'm a big supporter of clean ingredients in makeup & skin care and this is definitely one I plan to keep in my stash! The minerals are finely milled so it goes on very smoothly ~ the ultra soft kabuki brush included in the package also helps to create a flawless finish. Another key feature is the universally flattering shade of buildable bronze that's far from the orangey hues we all try to veer away from. When applying the product, use light sweeping motions starting under the cheekbones, forehead & jawline for a contouring effect. Then apply a sheer amount all over your face and neck to create a veil of colour.
The second item of the night was another multi-tasker. A night-time moisture mask that doubles as a gradual tanner so you can literally get up and glow! The base ingredients include sunflower seed oil & shea butter which both boost the skin's resilience against drying elements along with other nourishing ingredients like vitamin e and kiwi seed oil. It's naturally scented with essential oils of chamomile & bitter orange flower oil ~ both aromatherapeutic: Chamomile calms while orange oil relieves stress and insomnia - a perfect combination before bedtime!
To sum it up, I would place both products at the top of my list of gradual self-tanners! I've already incorporated the moisture mask to my nightly routine and saw immediate benefits this morning :D I'm also excited to demo the mineral bronzer on my clients and provide them with a flawless golden look!
Many thanks to Vita Liberata for the generous swag & the Langton PR crew for having me. You guys did an awesome job hosting!
You can check out Vita Liberata at Sephora or Click HERE to view their full range of products ;)
Most Wanted Fashion Editorial - Behind the Scenes
Some behind the scenes photos I shot with my iPhone during our "Most Wanted" editorial photoshoot for fashion publication FSHN Unlimited (Freshly released on news stands a couple days ago). We actually shot this way in advance during Summer 2014 so it's been a long time coming but definitely worth the wait to see our work in print & in tangible form. I had a great time collaborating with this talented crew ~ regardless of the fact that it was a soggy, rainy day, we made due and worked it out. The Overcast day actually gave the images a nice even light for talented photo duo Jane & Jane. The models had amazing energy and synergy. Dylan did an awesome job with hair and both Dylan and Emily did a fantastic job with sourcing all of the outfits and pairing all the pieces in a creative & edgy way ;)
Click here to view the final images.
Credits:
Behind the Scenes Photos by: Sherlyn Torres | Photographers: Jane and Jane | Hair: Dylan Dias | Makeup: Sherlyn Torres | Styled by: Emily Woudenberg & Dylan Dias | Models: Brenda & Skyler | Print Publication: Fashion Unlimited Magazine
Designers:
Som Kong | Rani Kim | Zoff | Sera Ghadaki | Seema Patel | Future of Frances Watson
Most Wanted - FSHN Unlimited Editorial
Credits:
Photographers: Jane and Jane | Hair: Dylan Dias | Makeup: Sherlyn Torres | Models: Brenda (Spot 6) & Skyler (Elite) | Styled by: Emily Woudenberg & Dylan Dias | Print Publication: Fashion Unlimited Magazine
Designers:
Som Kong | Rani Kim | Zoff | Sera Ghadaki | Seema Patel | Future of Frances Watson
Eye Spy - Beauty Photoshoot
1. NARS Oil Free Pore-refining Pro Prime | 2. M.A.C Cosmetics Brow Set in Clear | 3. NARS Sheer Matte Foundation in Siberia | 4. Noir Mascara | 5. M.A.C. Midnight Pressed Pigment | 6. Stila Stay All Day Eyeliner in Stingray | 7. M.A.C. Naval Pigment | 8. M.A.C. Teal Pigment | 9. M.A.C. Steel Blue Pigment
Kara Lane from K.I.D. - Promo Shoot
Photos from a recent shoot I worked on with cool kids Kara Lane (aka @SprngChkn on Instagram) & Wade Hudson, photographer extraordinaire!
Full Credits & Web Links:
Artist: Kara Lane 1/2 of Band K.I.D.
Makeup & Hair: Sherlyn Torres
Photographer: Wade Hudson
Stay tuned for some behind the scenes pics on my next post ;)
Meet me in the north - Behind the Scenes
Onset fun with a terrific crew!
I try to snap behind the scenes photos whenever possible...without getting in the way of the crew & with flash settings off of course ;)
It's a great way to see your work in a still shot ~ reference check to see if any makeup, hair & wardrobe adjustments need to be made on the models pre-shoot, keep track of happenings on set, and have a personal log of fond memories with the team!
Credits:
Director: Dewshane Williams | D.O.P. & Editor: Wade Hudson | Writer & Men's Wardrobe: Talya Macedo | Women’s Wardrobe Stylist: Cristina Oss-Cech | Makeup & Hair Artist: Sherlyn Torres | Models: Kyle Hoto Reid & Aza E (Elite Models) | Dancers: Lamar S. Johnson & Kassandra Williams
Meet me in the north - Fashion Film
Fashion in motion with a hint of love & hip hop...
A new project I worked on with these amazing peeps!
Director: Dewshane Williams | D.O.P. & Editor: Wade Hudson | Writer & Men’s Wardrobe: Talya Macedo | Women’s Wardrobe Stylist: Cristina Oss-Cech | Makeup & Hair Artist: Sherlyn Torres | Models: Kyle Hoto Reid & Aza E (Elite Models) | Dancers: Lamar S. Johnson & Kassandra Williams
Factory Girls Photoshoot
The mannequin theme of this particular shoot allowed my team & I to get a little more creative with the hair & makeup looks. We also loved playing off the minimal & futuristic vibe of the outfits w/ hints of soft pastel tones.
Credits:
Models: Stephanie-lyne & Leah with Elite Models | Photographer: Allysandra Cervantes | Hair Stylist: Mandy MacFadden | Makeup Artist: Sherlyn Torres | Wardrobe: Michelle Baboolall | Designers: Guarinatelier & Jesse Rowes
Product Highlights // Get the Looks:
1) M.A.C Prep & Prime Lip ~ Always start your makeup routine w/ lip balm or lip primer (especially during colder months & when using long lasting lip colours)
2) Lancome La Base Primer ~ Ultra smoothing and increases longevity of your foundation (apply 1-2 minutes after moisturizing)
3) NARS liquid foundation ~ This foundation gives a satin finish w/ buildable coverage
4) M.A.C. Gloss Texture ~ Apply on tops of cheekbones, bridge of nose & brow bone for a mannequin like dewy look
5) Anna Sui Star Lipstick in Red Wine #402 ~ A perfect fall shade w/ a hydrating satin finish
6) YSL Blush & Contour Brush ~ The soft tapered bristles makes blending a breeze!
7) M.A.C. Brow Set ~ this product grooms & fills in brows + sets them in place (use before or after filling in w/ brow powder or pencil)
8) Chanel eyeshadow quad ~ one of my fave combination of shades for classic shadow looks that can be customized from day to night (apply minimally to achieve a clean look and allow the liner to take centre stage)
9) Anna Sui Perfect Mascara ~ gives amazing water-resistant definition
10) Chanel #30 Brow Pencil ~ I love this brow pencil for perfecting brow shapes w/ a soft & neutral effect
11) M.A.C. Lip Mix in white ~ to create the uber pale lip tones for our minimal mannequin inspired looks
12) Stila Stay all day liquid liner in intense black ~ A staple in my kit for creating sharp, defined, long lasting lines
13) Anna Sui Lipsticks ~ various shades mixed to create the bright lip shades in bottom middle photo (absolutely love the textures of these!)
14) Stila Liquid Lipstick in Beso ~ apply w/ a precise lip brush for a smooth, matte long lasting lip colour // I used a light version (carina) on top of beso for the lower lips in photos 1, 3 & 4 to create a two-toned lip
15) M.A.C. white liner ~ applied as an accent under brows, on inner water-lines and on top of lids for a cool wintery look ;)
ANNA SUI VISIT IN TORONTO
Had such a fun time doing makeup for Anna Sui’s Event the other week! Anna Sui herself made an appearance & it was a wonderful honour to meet and chat with her. I truly admire her brand and her tenacity both in the fashion & beauty industries over the years. She only visits every few years so I was definitely glad to be a part of this particular event.
Be sure to check out her makeup & skin care line at Hudson’s Bay for the holidays. Her packaging is always impeccable, makeup quality is top notch *and they usually have terrific gifts with purchase ;)
Lippy featured below is one of Anna Sui's Signature Red Shades #401 - Limited *Star Edition
Anna Sui Lipsticks Overview
• Conditioning formula infused with fruit and flower oils
• Smooths and softens lips
• In a range of pink and red hues
• Sweet rose scent
• Star shaped tip and crystal style lipstick lid
• Product size: 3g/0.01z
ABOUT ANNA SUI: Launched in the late ‘90s, American designer Anna Sui's cosmetics line is as coveted for its luminous light-reflecting shades as it is for its collectable packaging.
