A peek into what I do, make-up & skincare tips, & my favourite beauty buys. Sophie x

6 Steps to Flawless Skin

2012-01-12T07:59:00.000-08:00

Don’t over-do your skin care routine by using too many products or using too much too often.

Here are my tips and 'natural' recommendations (I've included 2 non-natural products because their brilliance makes them too good to omit) to keep your skin immaculate this year.

TIP 1: Cleanse but don’t strip

It’s important to cleanse your skin of dirt, impurities and excess sebum BUT cleansing it too much is not good. People with oily, combination and problem skins tend to over cleanse and exfoliate for ‘clean’ feeling skin. This strips the skin of its natural oils, disturbing its regenerative processes, weakening its defenses and more often than not, resulting in an oiler, more acne prone complexion. Regardless of skin type, ensure you use a gentle cleanser and only cleanse once daily, at the end of each day.

Recommended products

Oily, combination and problem skins: Eau Thermal Avenesoapless gel cleanser £8.25 (Boots) (not completely natural)

Normal, dry and mature skins: Body Shop Nutriganics FoamingFace Wash £8.00

TIP 2: Exfoliate but don’t scrub

Always choose a gentle exfoliating product. Stay away from sparse large beads as these will tear the surface of your skin. Instead, opt for a product with lots of tiny beads, massaging it gently around the skin in small circular motions no more than once/week.

Recommended products

Oily, combination and problem skins: Body Shop Aloe Gentle Exfoliator £8 (not completely natural)

Normal, dry and mature skins: Neal’s Yard RemediesRehydrating Rose Facial Polish £14.80

TIP 3: Protect and hydrate

A moisturiser used daily (in the morning) will hydrate and plump your skin, ensuring a soft, smooth and supple complexion. Parts of a moisturizer will also sit on your skins surface, protecting it from the winter elements – cold weather, wind, heating etc.

Those with dry and mature skins tend to lather on moisturizing creams, lotions and serums like there’s no tomorrow. This can make the skin ‘lazy’ and if you miss a day’s application, your skin will likely suffer immediately. A thick consistency doesn’t necessarily mean a good product. First and foremost, opt for quality ingredients where a little goes a long way.

Recommended products

Oily, combination and problem skins: Lavera Calendular Balancing Cream £11.50 (Pravera)

Normal, dry and mature skins: Neal’s Yard RemediesFrankincense Nourishing Cream £20

TIP 4: Nourish and repair

Facials oils are a new and revolutionary addition to the skincare market. Although the word ‘oil’ can be daunting, oils mimic the skin’s natural sebums, penetrating deeply into the lower layers of skin providing intense nourishment and alleviating skin issues like ageing, oiliness an acne. Packed full of essential fatty acids, using the right oil for your skin type is magic and you will quickly reap incredible benefits.

Recommended products

Sophie Chamings Skincare Facial oils £19 – www.sophiechamings.co.uk/products.htm

TIP 5: Water inside and out

Drinking plenty of water each day will have a huge impact on what your skin feels and looks and like, promoting a ‘healthy glow’. Not only does water flush toxins from the body, minimizing the risk of those toxins being expelled through the skin as acne but it also reduces dry areas and premature ageing by supporting the production of elastin.

TIP 6: Treat your skin

A regular facial (every 4-6 weeks) will give your skin a boost of what it needs – purifying, hydrating, soothing, nourishing or anti-ageing – essential for a five-star complexion. An window of deep relaxation, facials also give you the chance to seek professional advice to ensure you are getting the most from your skincare routine.

Recommended

My Luxury Facial treatments £40

www.sophiechamings.co.uk

sophie@sophiechamings.co.uk

07734 994783

Beautiful Summer Bride, Jade 2011

2011-10-07T06:13:00.000-07:00

Make-up - Sophie Chamings (me and my lovely assistant Amy Norvill)
Beautiful photos - Susie Mackie
Venue - Hampton Court, Herefordshire, the most gorgeous venue ever!
Blushing Bride: Jade Wallis, Summer 2011

Choosing your perfect shade of red lipstick

2011-10-07T05:33:00.000-07:00

Essential for every make-up bag is a red lipstick as it never dates. But with a million different shades and finishes, how do you find the right one for you?

Wearing the wrong colour red will make your complexion look dull, tired and worn out. On the other hand, wearing the right shade of red will bring your face to life, making your skin look radiant and your eyes shine!

When it comes to choosing your perfect colour, it's all about the undertones in your skin. Are you cool or warm? If you don't know, take this brilliant color quiz to find out, returning here afterwards to see what suits you with my favourite red lipsticks this season ...

Warm tones
If you're warm with olive or yellow undertones to your skin and you look best in earthy tones like mustard, terracotta, coral, olive green and rust, look for lipsticks in vibrant shades of red with yellow or orange undertones also. My favourites this season are:

Christian Dior, Dolce Vita Red, No 14 £21.50
Revlon, Super Lustrous Lippy, Really Red, No 900 £7.49

Cool tones
If you're cool with pinkish or reddish undertones and you look best in cool shades such as pinks, blues, teals and purples (mainly jewel tones), you'll look best in reds that are blue-based/fuschia in their colouring. Don't worry, the blue doesn't show up, it's just a slight undertone that makes your red most flattering for you. A blue toned lipstick will make your teeth look whiter! My favourites this season are:

Christian Dior Diorific Lipstick, Roulette Red, No 13 £21.50
Revlon, Super Lustrous Lippy, Red, No 730 £7.49

Tips:
Choose your clothes around your lipstick, not the other way around
If you have thin lips, always wear a matt lipstick
If you feel your lipstick is too bright, apply it lightly with a balm on top for just a hint of red
Use a lipliner first for longer wear
Keep the rest of your make-up minimal
Guerlain's KissKiss Lip lift creates the perfect lipstick base

My make-up lessons create the perfect opportunity to find out more tips like the above to ensure you make the most of yourself with your make-up. Less is more and by choosing exactly the right shades for your colouring, a little will go a long way! Contact me on sophie@sophiechamings.co.uk or 07734 994783 to book.

Brighten a dull Autumn complexion

2011-08-25T13:02:00.000-07:00

A dry/dull complexion is a common complaint in Autumn when the temperature drops and skin suffers as a result. When skin is dry/dull, it is usually screaming out for a little extra nourishment; it needs protecting from the cold weather and supporting to repair itself more quickly.

I spend hours researching and sampling natural skincare products to see if they really are as good as they claim. Unfortunately, many are not but occasionally I encounter a little treasure that has truly amazing effects on the skin. So, I've put together a few of my top recommendations for Autumn below which will keep your skin supple, nourished and radiant ...

Cleanser Cleanse once daily in the evening to remove skin of impurities. Use a cream or lotion instead of a wash to keep skin nourished. My favourite:
Skin Blossom gentle cleansing milk 150ml £5.05

Moisturiser Use every morning and evening to hydrate, nourish and protect the skin. My favourite: Neal's Yard Remedies Frankincense Nourishing Cream 50g £20

Eye Cream Use every morning and evening to provide nourishment and moisture to the delicate eye area. My favourite: Body Shop Nutriganics Smoothing Eye Cream 15ml £13

Exfoliater Use once weekly to remove dead skin cells and brighten complexion. My favourites: Oskia Micro Exfoliating Balm 50ml £46, very expensive but oh, so worth it!
Neal's Yard Remedies Nourishing Orange Flower Facial Polish 100g £14.80, a cheaper but still 'worth-it' option :-)

My Luxury Facial treatment for dull, dry or mature skin uses the purest oils from evening primrose flowers, apricot kernels and macadamia nuts to deeply nourish and hydrate thirsty skin. Rosehip seed and sea buckthorn oils stimulate cells to regenerate themselves, creating a smoother, brighter and more radiant complexion.

If you'd like to book this lovely treatment, contact me on 07734 994783 or sophie@sophiechamings.co.uk to book your ideal time.

Melanie Cheng - bride - April 2011

2011-08-05T06:02:00.000-07:00

Bride: Melanie Cheng (was Melanie Maylen)
(Melanie is now pregnant with their 2nd child!)
Make-up done by: ME
Photographs taken by: Simon Donnelly

My top five summer make-up products

2011-07-11T10:16:00.000-07:00

Every now and then I find products that are well-worth shouting about and the following fall into that scrumptuous category. They are beautiful quality, look amazing on the skin and are easy to use - what more could us girlies want?

Dermalogica Sheer Tint Moisturiser £29.50
Sheer, natural and lasts all day. Great for all skin types. Where to buy: You'll need to go in-store to choose the right shade, find your nearest stockist here or you can buy it online here.

Bare Minerals Navy Eyeliner - Midnight £13
A beautiful shade of navy blue, soft in consistency and a great alternative to black/brown for all eye colours. Where to buy: House of Fraser, Cheltenham or online here.

Christian Dior Addict Lipstick (864) £22
A sheer, glossy lipstick - plumping, hydrating and a beautiful peach shade that suits everyone. Where to buy: House of Fraser or online here.

Nars Blusher - Orgasm £20.50
A georgous coral shade - warm and perfect for radiant summer skin. Where to buy: Space NK, Cheltenham or online here.

YSL Eyebrow Pencil £18
Comes in a range of lovely, natural shades - utterly foolproof when used. Where to buy: You'll need to go in-store to choose your perfect shade - House of Fraser, Cheltenham. Or, you can buy it online here.

Personal 'Make-up' Shopping

2011-07-11T10:08:00.000-07:00

Are you baffled by the masses of make-up on the market?

Have you bought a fabulous product in the shops, only to get it home and realise that it's actually a complete mistake?

Millions of women waste money on make-up that isn't right. So, I'm launching a 'Personal Shopping Make-up Service' - time spent in the shops helping you to buy EXACTLY THE RIGHT make-up products for you!

Whether you're shopping on a budget, looking for natural ingredients, exploring just one element of make-up or a complete look, we can explore brands and products galore. You'll learn what's right and why, save money buying products that look great and pick up heaps of tips and tricks about applying it along the way!

Get in touch (sophie@sophiechamings.co.uk; 07734 994783) and we can make a shopping plan especially for you. Sessions are offered on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, I'll meet you somewhere convenient in Cheltenham, prices are as follows: 1 hour £60, 2 hours £110.

'Must Have' Make-up Brushes

2011-05-19T09:32:00.000-07:00

I've created a list of 'must-have' brushes for your make-up kit from which you can pick and choose depending on the make-up you wear. Buying them in the shops can be pretty expensive and although investing is well worth it, I would recommend seeing what you can source on ebay first!

Using the right make-up brushes is key to creating a beautiful make-up look, ensuring it is soft, blended and flawless.

Large Powder Brush for applying bronzer/powder
Clinique True Bronze Brush £20.50, Boots
Lancome Powder Brush £27, Boots

Small Powder Brush for applying blusher
Clinique Blush Brush £15, Boots

Eyeshadow Applicator Brush for applying eyeshadow
MAC Shader Brush £18, MAC

Eyeshadow Blending Brush for blending eyeshadow into the socket
Space NK Smudge Brush £22, Space NK

Foundation Brush for applying foundation
Lancome Foundation Brush £26, Boots

Eyebrow Brush for defining eyebrows
MAC Eyebrow Brush £15, MAC

Eyeliner Brush for applying/perfecting/softening eyeliner
MAC Eyeliner Brush £14, MAC

Blushing Bride, Melanie Sinclair, Summer 2010

2011-04-30T11:32:00.000-07:00

Just one of the lovely brides that I did the make-up for in 2010 ...

Sophie Chamings Make-up, Cotswold Life-Print Published, May 2011

2011-04-30T11:07:00.000-07:00

Last month, Cotswold Life asked me to head-up and do the make-up and styling for an exclusive fashion shoot for the magazine. The beautiful images have been published in May's edition (press clippings below). Thank-you to everyone involved.

Clothing, footwear and accessories: Feva
Make-up Artist: Sophie Chamings
Photographer: Adam Robertson
Models: Ivory Flame; Madame Bink
Hair Stylist: Jay Jessop
Assistants: Andy Doane, Stefano Brunesci (photography); Sandie Hayman (clothes)

Help for a brave friend - Amy's story ...

2011-03-25T09:18:00.000-07:00

Hi, I'm Amy Lodder from Dulverton where I have lived for nearly 20 years. I’m 30 years old and I never thought I would be representing a charity so close to my heart.

In the year of 2009, I was extremely ill and was subsequently diagnosed with incurable lung disease Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM). I had 8 collapsed lungs and 4resulted in having major lung surgery at the Bristol Royal Infirmary.

I spent most of 2009 in a hospital bed with agonizing tubes draining fluid from my chest and it was one of the hardest years of my entire life. But I kept going as best I could. I had to pull on every resource that I had in me to fight and to keep myself alive, struggling to breath each time my lung collapsed. My medical team were just amazing and became my friends and the support from my family and friends were and still are just so incredible.

Lam is a very rare incurable lung disease affecting only women, and is generally diagnosed in women of child bearing age. The body produces cysts on the lungs which progressively erodes lung function and making it increasingly difficult for the sufferer to breath. Sometimes these cysts burst which causes the lung/lungs to collapse. That's what happened to me.

Since the beginning of 2010, although I have not been entirely hospital free, I have not had to have any further operations yet!! Long may it last!!

In most cases LAM leads to respiratory failure and the sufferer becomes dependant on oxygen to help them to breath. But for many the only hope of survival is to have a lung transplant and even then chance of survival is slim.

On 17th April (this year), my wonderful and supportive partner Karlos Kent is running the London Marathon for me and on behalf of the charity LAM Action.(Reg. Charity 1096637) - a charity dedicated to providing sufferers and their families with information, support and encouragement, as well as providing vital funding for crucial research to find a cure or something toslow the progression of this debilitating disease. LAM action recieves no external funding and soley relies on voluntary funding. Do visit www.lamaction.org if you would like to know more about the charity and the disease. Further details can also be found at www.lamtreatmentalliance.org

Lam is destroying the lives of many women around the world. Please help me raise money for this under researched, under-funded disease, in hope of finding a treatment that slows or halts the progression of this horrible disease. If you would like to support the charity to help with vital funding please visit www.justgiving.com/karlkent

Currently there is no cure for LAM and very little in the way of treatment. Every penny counts and your donation WILL really make a difference!

Thank you for your support.

Amy x

Soft Smoky Eyes - 10 STEP GUIDE

2011-03-20T09:59:00.000-07:00

This lovely soft smoky eyes make-up look will suit everyone regardless of colouring or skin tone. Just click on the image below to see the 10 products I used and the 10 steps I took to achieve it!

Hair and make-up for autumn fashion ...

2011-02-24T13:37:00.001-08:00

A lovely little shoot ...
Hair and make-up: ME
Photographs: Adam Robertson
Clothes and accessories: Feva Designs, Cheltenham

Natural bridal make-up - getting it right!

2011-02-24T13:21:00.000-08:00

The make-up I used to create this natural but flawless bridal look:

EYES
- Shu Uemura eyeshadow (Iridescent Beige)
- Living Nature eyeliner (Flaxseed)
- Chanel Khol pencil (white)
- Christian Dior Show mascara (dark brown)

FACE
- Christian Dior Skinflash concealer (shade 2)
- Laura Mercier Primer (for normal skin)
- Estee Lauder Doublewear Light foundation
- Benefit Hoola bronzer
- Nars blusher (Oasis)

LIPS
- Estee Lauder lip liner (Tawny Writer)
- Barbara Daly lip glaze (Ballerina)

Bear Bile Farming: PLEASE HELP!

2010-12-30T10:27:00.000-08:00

10,000 Asiatic bears are locked in cages the size of their own bodies while tubes are inserted into their abdomens twice daily for their bile. They cannot move and grow into the bars of their cages. They suffer excrucating pain, develop deep sores and infections and often chew their own flesh off in a desperate attempt to escape their torture.

In just a couple of minutes, you can help to put a stop to this horrific practise. Please scroll down to see how.

THE FACTS
10,000 Asiatic black bears in China are locked in cages the size of their own bodies for up to 25 years where their bile is drained twice daily through torturous procedures and sold for use in traditional medicine.

A tube is rawly inserted through the bears skin and into the bears abdomens for bile to be drained out.

The bears moan and writhe in pain and clutch their stomachs as the bile drains from their bodies. The sores bleed, resulting in serious infection.

So farmers can approach the bears without fear of injury, they often mutilate the bears by breaking their teeth and pulling out their claws, sometimes brutally removing whole limbs.

Sometimes the bears try to pull out their catheters. Those that do, are immobilized in an iron corset.

The bears show their distress and suffering by banging their heads against their cages, gnawing on the bars, and at times tearing the flesh from their paws and arms in a futile attempt to deflect their thoughts from the main source of pain.

Under-nourished and highly stressed from horrific pain and unnatural confinement, the bears lie in agony, in their own filth.

Surviving cubs are removed from their mothers too early and put into cages, where they sometimes grow into the bars as their bodies mature.

When bears are no longer able to secrete bile, they are left to die from sickness or starvation.

NOW, WATCH THIS SHORT CLIP

"Bear bile farming is the worst animal welfare scenario I have ever encountered" said Swiss born conservation media activist Karl Ammann.

Bear bile is totally unnecessary, according to countless scientific studies. Chinese use bear bile for their traditional medicines (TCM), claiming it cures a range of ailments – from hemorrhoids to hangovers, to colds and cancer. But research shows there are more than 50 far more effective and affordable herbal alternatives, as well as many synthetic options.

HOW CAN YOU HELP?
Donate, even the smallest amount
Limited funding is a huge issue, often preventing salvation from moving forward as swiftly as needed. Support the following organisations by offering funds - no matter how little an amount:
Ursa Freedom Project
World Society for Protection for animals
Animals Asia

Sign as many petitions as you can
Animals Asia
WSPA
Ursa Freedom Project
Petition online-BEARS
China Wildlife Conservation Association, Beijing
Stop Bear Farming Now
Help South Korean Bears

Write letters to the Chinese government, UK politicians, newspapers and wildlife centres on behalf of Animals Asia. Click here for templates and addresses.

Join Facebook groups and be an active member
Animals Asia
Ursa Freedom project
WSPA

Send EVERYONE on your mailing list a link to this blog/related websites and talk to as many people as possible.

Offer your support to these organizations that are working to stop it – as a volunteer, an assistant, an advocate, a donor or a grant writer. Ursa Freedom Project is currently looking for designers, PRs and fundraisers, any time donated is much appreciated.

Do some fundraising. Check out Animals Asia for ideas.

Help undercover eco warriors expose environmental crimes. What we cannot do is sit idle. If you hear or experience something horrific happening, report it to one of these organisations immediately.

PS. There are 6 of these cute little hand-knitted bears for sale, retailing at £16.16 + P&P. ALL proceeds go to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre which provides care, rehabilitation and release for orphaned and captive sun bears.

Make-up, hair and fashion

2010-11-18T01:21:00.000-08:00

Hair and make-up styled by me.
Photography by www.amango.co.uk

Food sources for radiant skin

2010-11-12T06:45:00.001-08:00

With our skin being our largest organ, it is imperative that we feed it with plenty of foods packed full of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids. As our bodies do not naturally create these, we must make sure that we include them in our diets. A well-fed skin will look supple, hydrated and radiant, ageing will not happen so quickly and skin issues will occur much less often. Below I have outlined some key things that the skin can’t live without so next time you go food shopping, make sure you include them in your trolley!

VITAMIN A Vitamin A taken internally will protect your skin from ageing as well as the environment and our miserable English weather.. Vitamin A is an antioxidant and will therefore fight free radicals in your skin, helping it to look youthful, healthy and fresh. Vitamin A can also help to protect your skin from photo-ageing caused by exposure to the sun - but including it in your diet is definitely not an excuse to stop using suntan lotion!

Which foods? If you’re not sure which foods contain vitamin A, think green and orange. Typical foods are: carrots, apricots, potatoes, spinach, broccoli. I wouldn’t recommend supplementing your diet with Vitamin A but make sure you eat lots of these foods instead.

VITAMIN C Vitamin C is also an antioxidant and maintains the structural health of our skin cells. It is fundamental for the production of collagen in the skin, which is essential for a smooth and plump complexion. Without collagen, skin would be dull and loose and we would all look old well before our time. Vitamin C is also essential for the regeneration of Vitamin E – another important skin vitamin.

Which foods? Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits and juices, cantaloupe, strawberries, kiwi, cabbage, spinach, broccoli, and green peppers.

VITAMIN E Vitamin E is an extremely powerful antioxidant and is essential for protection against the damage that free radical cause the skin. Applied topically and taken internally, vitamin E will minimise fine lines and wrinkles.

Which foods? Vitamin E is found naturally in plant oils such as soya, corn and olive oil as well as seeds and nuts and wheatgerm.

ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS Essential Fatty Acids (Omega 6 and 3) are the building blocks of skin cells, whichact as barriers to harmful effects as well as pathways for nutrtients and oxygen to travel through the skin as well as toxins to escape. As water is stored in cell membranes, the stronger they are. The more they will be able to hold onto water and retain moisture. That means, plumper, more youthful looking skin.

What are free radicals and antioxidants? Free radicals are created when the skin is damaged. This happens when it is exposed to things such as pollution, sun-burn, chemical based products, smoking, alcohol. These free radicals cause more damage by attacking other cells and without antioxidants, the process may be unstoppable!

Antioxidants stabilise these free radicals preventing them from attacking cells and therefore from damaging the skin. Free radicals wil always occur in the body and skin but further damage can be stopped by consuming enough antioxidants.

Eleven pieces of miracle make-up

2010-11-12T06:40:00.000-08:00

Estee Lauder Doublewear Light foundation £25 House of Fraser/Boots
Natural, long lasting foundation. Apply only where needed, starting from T-zone and blending outwards/downwards. Match your perfect shade to your jaw-line.

Benefit High Beam £17.50 House of Fraser/Boots
A fabulous highligter for glossy skin. After foundation and before powder, apply and blend on cheek and brow bones.

Lancome Tropiques Minerale loose bronzer £33 Boots/House of Fraser
A lovely bronzing powder - soft, luminous and natural. Gives instant life to dull tired skin. Using big powder brush, apply all over face - on bare skin or over foundation.

Christian Dior Skin Flash under-eye concealer £24.50 House of Fraser
Banish those under eye bags. Apply and blend under eyes and on eyelids.

Guerlain Lip lift £20 House of Fraser
For beautiful plump, smooth and nourished lips, use under lipstick, liner and gloss.

Nars blusher - Oasis £19.50 Space NK
For a subtle rosy blush. Apply to apples of cheeks for a fresh day time look. Apply along cheekbones for an evening make-up look.

Laura Mercier satin eye colours £18 Space NK
Sheer subtle eye colours in lovely shades. Apply all over eyelids lids, blending into sockets. Bring lightly along lower lash line with a cotton bud.

Revlon Khol pencil (white) £6.99 Boots
A pure white eyeliner. Use inside lower rim of eyes to brighten and open up.

Chanel Inimitable mascara (black) £21.50 House of Fraser
A smudge free and easy to apply mascara. Apply two coats to upper and lower lashes - using more in outer corners.

Sante lip liner (Soft Red-10) (100% natural) £4.50 www.survana.co.uk
A rosy lip coloured lip liner. Apply lightly all over lips, emphasising outer edges.

Barbara Daly lip gloss - Mirage £5 Tescos
A fabulous translucent red gloss. Apply all over lips.

Karen Bennell's wedding make-up - 21st August 2010

2010-11-12T06:32:00.000-08:00

Make-up styled by me, of course.
Foundation used: Estee Lauder Doublewear Light
Bronzer: Benefit Hoola
Blusher: Nars Oasis
Eyeliner: Rimmel brown liquid liner

Bridal fashion Shoot at Bickleigh Castle

2010-10-06T13:50:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, I drove down to Bickleigh Castle - a wedding venue set in the most beautiful grounds in the heart of the Devonshire countryside - to do the make-up for a bridal fashion shoot. Believe it or not, the girls aren't models, but friends of the incredibly talented wedding photographers, Luna. The hair was styled by Anne Allen, hairdresser and stylist (can be contacted at Hair & Beauty Zone, Tiverton, Devon 01884 243999) and the dresses and accessories are all made by Sassi Holford. Oh, and of course, the make-up was done by me ...

Get bright eyes and soft smooth lips ...

2010-09-27T08:52:00.000-07:00

Bright eyes and soft smooth lips can be difficult to achieve, especially in winter. So, I thought I'd share my favourite beauty tips to help you along the way.

Those of you who read my blog regularly will know that I am always searching for exceptional natural beauty products. I found a solution to the lack of amazing natural skincare on the market by making my own small range (see my website to read about my products) but I still haven’t found the right natural make-up. I search avidly but it's never long before I reluctantly slink back to the realisation that there aren’t many exceptional natural make-up products out there.

I have however, been fortunate enough to discover a natural make-up brand called Living Nature and they make the most fabulous lip and eyeliners. They are luxuriously soft, easy to use and made from wonderfully rich but subtle pigments. They can be used lightly for just a hint of colour and definition or more heavily for a stronger, more stylised look.

Living Nature Lip liners £10 each
Shade: Woods
A warm terracotta without too much orange, this is a beautiful colour for those of you who suit earthy/autumnal shades and like a bit of lip definition.

Shade: Laughter
A soft cool pink, this is great for those of you who suit pastel colours. Very pretty and great for helping thin lips to look fuller.

Top skincare tips for lips
Exfoliate your lips twice a week, either with your normal exfoliator or with a shea butter based balm and your toothbrush (I use the Living Nature lip balm made from shea butter and manuka honey - only £8). This will keep your lips plump, smooth and soft as well as bringing back their natural rosy colour. Make sure you apply a lip balm immediately after exfoliating to keep lips hydrated.

Top make-up tips for lips
Use your lip liner to draw a line around the edge of your lips, applying it ON the lip line in the central lip areas and just INSIDE the lip line as you move out towards the outer corners. This will give your lips a subtle pout. Use your lip liner to shade inside the lip line, applying colour softly to the whole lip. Apply a clear or nude gloss on top, blending the colour underneath as you apply. This makes for a light, fresh finish and the colour lasts for hours!

Living Nature eyeliners - £10 each
Shade: Flaxseed
The nicest, richest shade of brown that I’ve come across. It suits everyone!

Shade: Midnight
A dark navy blue that brightens eyes by highlighting the colours of the iris. A great alternative to black - softer and less ageing.

Top skincare tips for eyes
To keep eyes looking fresh and bright, drink plenty of water (at least 2 litres/day) and get plenty of rest and relaxation. Deep breathing excercises, being in the countryside, gentle excercise and warm baths with essential oils are great ways to re-cooperate energy and brighten the whites of your eyes. Massaging a small amount of an organic vegetable oil - such as sweet almond oil (can be bought from Neal's Yard Remedies or Aromantic) - around the eyes daily can also make a huge difference to the quality of the skin, helping it to look smooth and supple and minimising the appearance of fine lines.

Top make-up tips for eyes
Starting from the outer corner of each eye, apply your sharpened eyeliner along the upper lash line in as straight a line as possible finishing half or two thirds of the way along the eyelid. It doesn't matter if your line isn't straight but make sure there is no gap between the line you draw and the upper eyelashes. With a small eyeliner brush (Charles H Fox brush 1/8 - £3.05), blend along the line - smoothing out mistakes and softening any sharpness. The result will be soft natural definition. You can do the same along the lower lashes too but use a little less eyeliner or use the excess eyeliner that should still be on the eyeliner brush. The further along the eye you bring the line, the more definition you will create. Finish with two coats of black or navy mascara on the top and bottom lashes.

What do I offer?
Have a read about my natural facial products on my website and if you like the sound of them, why not book in for a fabulous luxury facial and see what they can do for your skin. My luxury facial is described time and time again by my clients as 'the best facial I've ever had'.

I also offer make-up lessons and workshops so if you would like to learn more about applying make-up naturally but effectively, get in touch:
sophie@sophiechamings.co.uk
07734 994783skincar

Catwalk Make-up for Ted Baker and Karen Millen

2010-07-27T12:13:00.000-07:00

Eight weeks ago I was asked to join a team of make-up artists at the Hobbs Hairdressing Fashion Show in Bristol. In aid of meningitis, it was an evening to remember. It was quite possibly the BEST fashion event I have ever worked. Here are some pics of the girls I made up - shame they have glasses on but I guess that's all part of fashion ...

Summer fashion in fields ...

2010-07-04T02:23:00.000-07:00

A very hot day but great fun ...
Hair and make-up: ME
Photographs: Adam Robertson

Shooting with Flame Inc. again

2010-04-20T03:50:00.000-07:00

Photographer - Flame Inc.
Hair, make-up and styling - ME
A bit different to my usual style but I hope you like them. I would love to know which ones are your favourites, so drop me a mail and let me know ... sophie@sophiechamings.co.uk

Imagine having perfect eyebrows all the time ...

2010-04-09T03:44:00.000-07:00

I've dreamt about that for years ... waking up with perfect brows - opening up my eyes, framing my face, emphasising my cheekbones and making my skin look clearer and fresher. Yes, that's right - eyebrows can do all of those things and more!.

Often, when I'm doing clients' make-up, eyebrows are the fist thing I look at and it is very rare indeed that I look at some-one's brows and think they are just right. We are all obsessed with bright lipsticks, eyeshadows and blushers but we don't realise how the perfect eyebrows can make ALL the difference! And, what's more - eyebrows look completely and utterly natural.

Anyway, I like to do my make-up in no more than a few minutes and I was using quite a lot of my few minutes each morning trying to get my eyebrows perfect. So, I decided to investigate semi-permanent make-up. After a year of researching different artists around the country and still feeling unhappy with portfolios and prices, I finally stumbled across Nia Tucker, a semi-permanent make-up artist in Cheltenham.

We spent ages together deciding on the perfect brow shape for me and away she went with the tattooing. The results are amazing (before and after pictures below). EVERYONE has commented on how amazing my brows look and I LOVE them. Nia only uses natural pigment and it didn't hurt at all. And what's more, they still look completely natural so no-one even knows I have had them tattooed in (until I tell them of course!).

If you want to investigate having something done yourself, check out Nia's website and book in for a consultation.

New faces

2010-03-16T10:01:00.000-07:00

I haven't done a model shoot for a while as I've been so busy but a fresh photographer (Flame Inc.) approached me with a new model so away I went! If you would like to learn how to create perfect make-up for yourself, I offer individual make-up lessons and group workshops. Get in touch for prices and availability sophie@sophiechamings.co.uk 07734994783 or visit my website www.sophiechamings.co.uk

Learn how to do your own wedding make-up and hair ...

2010-01-13T12:35:00.000-08:00

The words 'bride' and 'beautiful' come hand in hand. If you look beautiful, you will feel beautiful and it will be captured forever in your photographs. A professional make-up artist and hair stylist can make all the difference …

Experienced and knowledgeable about the right colours, the right styles and how to ensure that both your make-up and hair lasts for the whole day and evening, it is well worth the spend. A good make-up artist and hair stylist will be able to create ‘natural’ perfection that is individual to your personality, colouring and face shape. It’s also a real treat for you to be able to sit down and be pampered on the morning of your wedding day.

So, how do you go about choosing a make-up artist and hair stylist? Most important is a portfolio of work. If you like the make-up and hair that a professional has done in the past, then the chances are that you will like what she/he does for you on your wedding day. Read client testimonials and contact make-up artists/hairdressers to see if they are the kind of people you would like to share part of your wedding day with. Ask lots of questions about their experience, the products they use and ideas they may have about your hair and make-up, to ensure you are happy with what they will do before you spend money on your trials.

Oh, and make sure your stylists and artists can come to you on the special day as the last thing you want is to be rushing around before your wedding!

Some of you may decide that you would like to do your own hair and make-up so I thought I would give you some tips to help you to achieve a professional look.

SECRETS

Skin preparation
Make sure your skin is in tip-top condition for your wedding day. This way, you will need to use less foundation and any foundation you do use will look smoother and more natural. Visit a professional if need be, to ensure you are using the right skincare products for your individual skin. Pre-wedding facials are a great way to get it right.

Foundation
Use a lightweight foundation all over your face, using a long lasting concealer on areas that need a bit of extra coverage. This will keep your skin looking naturally fresh. If you have oily skin, use a matt foundation and for dryer skin, use something light reflective.

Blusher
Choose a soft pink blusher and use on the apples of your cheeks blending it gently upwards along the cheekbones. If you’re not sure where the apples of your cheeks are, smile in the mirror and they will soon become prominent. Apply very lightly to start with and build up the colour if you need it.

Bronzer
A bronzer will give you an effortless but beautiful summer glow. Avoid shimmer and avoid orange but otherwise apply your bronzer lightly all over face in the places where you would naturally catch the sun. Don’t apply too much on your nose and dust it down your neck to make sure the colour is evenly spread.

Eyes
Choose soft, subtle shades and make sure you blend them well! Apply a lighter one all over your eyelid and a darker one on the outer part of the eyelid, blending it well into the socket line. Draw a pencil eyeliner on eyelid as close to lashes as possible and smudge with a cotton bud afterwards to give a soft, subtle look. Use a white eyeliner inside the lower rim of the eye to open it up, finishing with a black/brown/navy waterproof mascara and apply 2 or 3 coats.

Lips
Draw a neutral coloured lipliner all over your lips, finishing with the lip gloss of your choice. Keep it soft – peach, pink or clear are recommended.

Products to take in your bag
Ensure you take with you your face powder, your lipliner and your lipgloss so you can keep your make-up perfect throughout the day.

Hair
For naturally beautiful hair, apply some styling mousse and use heated rollers to create volume and curls. As you take the rollers out, use hairspray on each individual curl, shake your head forwards and work fingertips into the roots of hair to create natural volume. Finish with a couple of beautiful hair clips placed on the side of the head, pinning one side of your hair up and away from your face.

How healthy are you?

2010-01-13T12:30:00.000-08:00

The ancient practice of Chinese face mapping goes back hundreds of years to the time of Confucius. It was used by Chinese doctors as a way of recognising and healing health issues, the underlying belief being that parts of the face reflect different organs in the body. Nowadays, the art is used relatively widely amongst different cultures in beauty therapy as well as health and well-being practices.

Chinese face mapping is an integral part of my luxury facial treatment. By recognising the skin’s external needs as well as the body’s internal requirements, we are much more likely to achieve radiant, healthy, youthful and clear complexions. I look and feel for a number of signs. Some are more obvious, including skin issues such as acne, psoriasis, eczema and lines and wrinkles. Others are more subtle, including discolouration, birth marks, freckles, congestion, open pores, dryness and oiliness.

I then correlate these areas to the energy of relevant internal organ and look at what lifestyle changes the individual may need to make to start seeing health, well-being and skin improvements. I discuss the use of herbal and nutritional support to make gentle changes internally which then have a positive impact on the skin.

Under eye
This area indicates the health of the kidneys and liver. If the area is puffy and blue, you are probably feeling overworked, stressed and exhausted as well as not drinking enough water and eating too much rich food. However, if the area is yellow/brown it signifies that the energy of your live is stagnant, possibly from too much rich food or alcohol.

Forehead
This area reflects the gall bladder and liver. Spots, puffiness, lines and redness on the forehead indicate too much oily food, dairy and alcohol consumption.

Inbetween eyebrows (third eye)
Relating to the stomach and liver, issues in this area suggest that your digestive health needs some attention. You are probably eating something your body doesn’t like or you need a digestive clear out.

Brow line and temples
This area relates to the kidneys and adrenals, suggesting that you are dehydrated, stressed and overworked.

Mouth
The mouth reflects the stomach and intestines and this area indicates candida or too much dairy in the diet. Yellowness around the mouth and pale lips indicate a weak digestive energy and a cracked, dry lower lip suggests a colon imbalance.

Nostrils and cheeks
This area indicates the lungs. If you have any problems with your skin here, you could be eating too much dairy or not getting enough fresh air.

Jawline and chin
These two areas signify hormones and ovaries. The most common issue is acne in this area and it can be difficult to calm. You are probably not doing enough exercise and eating too much red meat.

To book one of my luxury facials and see what your skin says about your internal health and wellbeing, contact me: sophie@sophiechamings.co.uk, 07734 994783 or visit my website www.sophiechamings.co.uk

Get golden skin for winter ...

2010-01-13T12:18:00.000-08:00

Most of us look healthy in summer due to golden brown skin and glowing complexions. Some of us choose natural tans and those that are more sensible choose fake ones. But, either or, a golden glow makes for radiant looking skin. Then winter arrives and our skins turn pale and dull. Heavy foundations are plastered on, healthy complexions disappear and we forget about the beauty of being bronze!

In my time as a make-up artist, I have marvelled at the difference that bronzed skin can make to an overall look; evening out skin tone, reducing redness and promoting healthy radiant looking skin. It’s a fact – golden skin looks beautiful and can transform a dull, tired looking complexion to something that’s natural, glowing and fresh. So, with a light winter bronzing, you can look great. And, looking great will help you to feel fantastic. Check out my favourite natural bronzing products below and get yourself a natural winter glow!

Lavera Summer Glow Facial Moisturiser – Calendular 30ml £11.60 www.lavera.co.uk; Natural Grocery Store, Bath Road, Cheltenham
If you don't have time to put make-up on every morning but feel you need a bit of something on your face, this product is the one to use. It’s light in consistency and gives the skin a beautifully subtle glow which can be deepened with daily use. It comes highly recommended even for those of you with super fair skin.

Living Nature Luminous Pressed Powder – deep £17.62 www.livingnature.co.uk
Most bronzing powders are too orange and also too shimmery. Dark shades of face powder are often subtler in colour and can be better alternatives. This Living Nature Luminous Powder is nicely subtle and will leave your skin looking luminous and bright. Dust all over face, using a little more to contour cheek bones, with a large powder brush on top of bare skin or foundation. A great winter buy for everybody.

Inika Mineral Foundation 8g pot, £23 (recommended shades: passion, inspiration, believe, respect) www.inikacosmetics.co.uk , Natural Grocery Store, Bath Road, Cheltenham
When mineral powder make-up is applied to the skin, the powder mixes with the natural oils in the skin to form a cream-like consistency. Used sparingly, this makes for the most wonderful finish. The Inika foundations come in more natural shades than the bronzers and so look more natural on the skin. Grab a dark shade of foundation powder and create a perfect winter glow. You should get the kabuki brush for best effects.

Madara Tinting Fluid 50ml £21.50 www.madara.co.uk
The Madara Tinting Fluid is soft and fresh looking and doesn’t feel heavy on the skin. With two warm shades to choose from, you can be sure to achieve a lovely glow at the same time as providing nourishment for dry winter skin.

Lavera Self Tanning Lotion 150ml £11.50 www.lavera.co.uk; Natural Grocery Store, Bath Road, Cheltenham
This fake tan looks great on the body and lasts for days. The colour is soft and natural and it is easy to apply. You don't need much but make sure you exfoliate and moisturise first to get an even application! If you're super fair, mix with a body lotion to lighten the colour.

To find out more about what I do, visit www.sophiechamings.co.uk. All appointments booked in January receive £10 off.

Blend your own facial oils

2010-01-13T11:51:00.000-08:00

Facial oil recipes - 100ml each – massage into skin every night. Each oil would cost under £10 to make and last you 2-3 months at least! Compare this to what you would spend on your normal facial products. The Rosehip Seed Oil is the most expensive product and could be substituted for Camelina Oil to make recipes half the price!

Protect your skin from your computer’s electro-magnetic rays
40ml Sunflower Oil
25ml Rosehip Seed Oil
10ml Borage Oil
10ml Calendular Oil
15ml Vitamin E Oil

Prevent teenage breakouts
61.5 ml Rosehip Seed Oil
10ml Borage Oil
15ml Jojoba Oil
10ml Vitamin E Oil
2ml Vitamin A Oil
5 drops of Tea Tree Essential Oil

Minimise fine lines and wrinkles
70ml Rosehip Seed Oil
11ml Macadamia Nut Oil
18ml Vitamin E Oil
1ml Echium Seed CO2 Extract

NB. If products are not going to be used within six months, add 5 drops of Rosemary Anti-Oxidant (CO2 Extract) to each blend to act as a natural preservative.

All ingredients can be bought from www.aromantic.co.uk

For more information about me, visit www.sophiechamings.co.uk

Plant oils for problem skin

2010-01-13T11:42:00.000-08:00

Just as Essential Fatty Acids are important for us to take internally for healthy skin, hair and nails, they are also be extremely effective when used externally.

I suffered with mild acne for years and tried just about every cream on the market. When working at a holistic beauty event in London, I spoke to a woman with the most beautiful skin. Being ever curious, I asked her what her secret was and she told me that she made her own skincare products from natural plant oils. Since then, I have been studying natural oils, fats and waxes and blending my own skincare products. My skin has improved dramatically and so has that of many of my clients who come to me with specific skin problems.

The best oils for acne, eczema and psoriasis are those high in Essential Fatty Acids, especially Omega 6 (otherwise known as Linoleic acid). Research shows that Linoleic acid is effective in regenerating skin cells, softening, repairing and strengthening the skin. It is also moisturising, an antioxidant (great for anti-ageing) and an anti-inflammatory.

The following oils are all high in Omega 6 and effective for acne, dry eczema and psoriasis.

Borage oil
Otherwise known as Starflower oil, Borage oil penetrates down into the skin.

Thistle oil
Very high in Omega 6, Thistle oil is one of the most nourishing plant oils.

Rosehip Seed Oil
One of my favourites, Rosehip Seed oil is high in Omega 3 and 6. It contains a natural precursor of Vitamin A which is great for skin infections.

Vitamins E and A
Vitamin E is a preservative oil for skincare products and it also helps to regulate free radical production in the skin – helping to prevent wrinkles, stimulating blood circulation and regulating elasticity. Vitamin A is an antioxidant and is also anti-inflammatory. It’s great for dry, lifeless and ageing skin and for many related skin problems.

Recipe blend (for use on dry eczema) – to be used topically on the skin and in the bath
30% borage oil
40% thistle oil
15% Rosehip Seed oil
13% vitamin E oil
2% vitamin A oil

Your skin is individual to you. The more you can learn about your own skin problems, why they are occurring and effective ingredients, the more likely you are to be able to find the right solution for you. For truly beautiful skin, internal health is just as - if not more - important.

For more information about me, please visit www.sophiechamings.co.uk. Alternatively, contact sophie@sophiechamings.co.uk, 07734 994783.

More information about the above topics can be found at www.aromantic.co.uk – a natural skincare information hub which sells good quality natural ingredients.

Aaagh, I'm so excited about my pictures!!

2009-12-02T15:28:00.001-08:00

A massage to remember ..

2009-11-26T00:24:00.000-08:00

Last week, I decided to treat myself to a luxury massage. Having already visited many of the beauty salons in Cheltenham, I decided to investigate somewhere new.

So, after some investigation and many recommendations, I decided to book myself a luxury Decleor Aromassage at Cedars health and beauty centre situated in Gloucester Leisure Centre (GL1). So, after a long day at a photoshoot, I packed up my things and rushed across to the salon for my treatment.

After such a busy week, I was in real need of some real pampering and I certainly wasn't disappointed! Walking into the salon, I was greeted by the most wonderful aura. With stylish purple decor and beautifully elegant decorations, the reception area looked truly enchanting. I was met by a friendly receptionist, offered a drink and taken through to the - just as beautiful - treatment room by my therapist (whose name was Jen).

I have to say that from then on, I was in dream. I was given the choice of one of four fragranced Decleor massage balms (I chose the relaxation one) and away the tretament went. Almost every area of my body was massaged with deep, slow, sweeping movements, including my back, legs, arms, feet, hands and even my stomach. The pressure was perfect and my stress dissipated almost immediately with the combination of Thai, neuromuscular and Swedish massage. I reached a level of deep relaxation and felt completely pampered and indulged. Just when I thought the treatment had come to an end, my therapist (Jen) performed an amazing face and scalp massage, focusing on acupressure points and working right into the nape of my neck (which I love).

I have to say it was one of the best treatments I've ever have and I left the salon literally floating. £65 for an hour and a half - well worth the indulgence and a lovely Christmas present for a special friend, a sister or a Mum.

To book or find out more, contact details are:
Tel: 01452 307767
Email: info@cedarshealth-beauty.co.uk
Website: www.cedarshealth-beauty.co.uk

Shooting in the warm ...

2009-11-25T14:17:00.001-08:00

There's not much to say here ... I think the photos say it all ...

Model - Natasha Murray - Gingersnaps modelling agency
Make-up artist - ME
Photographer - Robin Bradshaw
Clothes and jewellery - Feva Designs
Hair - Paco Delgado - 01242 570755

Brides looking beautiful

2009-08-30T00:45:00.000-07:00

I was looking through my make-up portfolio the other day and I realised I have not shown you any of my wedding photographs (not my weddings obviously, but those brides whose make-up and hair I've done). So, I have picked three brides with completely different looks - bride one has smoky eyes, bride two has a little bit of colour and bride three is very natural. I hope you like them! If you're planning a wedding, get in touch for prices and availability! Oh, and you can click through to my website to see more of my portfolio ...

Photographer Jim Johnston
Jewellery Hermione Jewellery
Hair and make-up ME
Brides Vicky Kendall, Rhiannon Owen, Rhea Bawden

Which make-up products did I use?

2009-08-18T07:43:00.000-07:00

COMPLEXION
Dermacolour foundation palette applied to skin where needed.

Benefit High Beam applied along cheek bones, above brow, down centre of nose and chin.

Nars blusher - Oasis applied to cheekbones.

Benefit bronzer - Hoola applied all over face.

EYES
Laura Mercier cream eyeshadow - - blended all over eyelid and aup to brow
Laura Mercier cream eyeshadow - - blended into inner corner of eye and underneath to outer corner. Also, lightly under brow.

Clinique eyeshadow - - blue denim - applied along socket line in a definite stroke. Flicked out at end to create a more fashionable look (you may want to blend it into outer corner of eye)

Clinique eyeshadow - Dark Denim - blue denim - used as eyeliner and applied in a line along upper lash line and part wat along lower lash line

Chanel khol eye pencil - blanc (white) applied in bottom inner rim of eye

Chanel Inimitable masacara - black applied too upper and lower lashes. Three coats applied.

LIPS
Nars lip gloss - scandal applied all over lips

Cooking oils for skincare

2009-08-15T07:38:00.001-07:00

We're in a recession and watching our money so what better way to save than to spend a few pounds on a skincare product that's just as effective as one bought for £300. And, what's more, it's much more fun and naughty to use things that we don't normally use! So, here are my top tips for you to start utilising what's at your fingertips and be more resourceful with products you use everyday. I hope you love them as much as I do!

Olive Oil is great for dry, chapped skin anywhere on the body as it is moisturising, softening and protective.

Olive Oil is a cheap and effective massage oil. Blend your favourite essential oils in for a beautiful aroma.

Coconut Oil is an excellent hair conditioner for dry hair, promoting glossiness and bounce - especially if left on over night.

Coconut oil is a great bath oil and means you can moisturise and nourish your skin effortlessly.

Sunflower Oil is very nourishing for the skin and can help to reduce the size of pores on the face and protect your skin from the glare of your computer. Mix a little with your everyday cream or oil for lasting results.

Janey Lee Grace recommends the ethically traded Coconoil from Sri Lanka which is availabe from www.coconoil.com. I've tried it and it's brill!

I would recommend buying your oils from www.aromantic.co.uk as they are excellent quality. But, a good quality cooking oil can be used for your skin and haircare. You can buy them from your local supermarket!

A little piece of colour ...

2009-08-13T14:12:00.000-07:00

I am sitting with Robin from Bullit Photography and we are editing photographs from today's photoshoot. The photos look amazing and, if I do say so myself, the make-up looks top-notch. In fact, I'd say it's the best make-up I've ever done for a shoot and it puts the rest of my work to shame. That, alongside my wonder about whether I'll ever be able to replicate my work today again - are causing vague feelings of apprehension! However, in a few days I will be feeling fine again and I'll be relishing today's work. I feel like this after every shoot by the way - laugh laugh laugh!

We were lucky enough to get Rosie Corr as one of our models. She was the beautiful model from the shoot on the beach and she was even more beautiful today! Paco from Paco Delgado hair salon (01242 570755) did the hair and as usual it looked fab, Robin from Bullit took the beautiful photographs and I did the make-up and clothes styling. The shoot was very short notice, so credit card in hand, I tripped to Cribbs Causeway late last night and came back with a goody bag of clothes and jewellery from our ever faithfuls - Topshop and River Island!

We started the shoot in the studio using Robin's new coloured backgrounds, then we headed down to Cheltenham train station and then back to the studio for final shots. Take a look and see what you think!

Models on the beach ...

2009-08-05T14:42:00.000-07:00

This photoshoot took place on a beach in Weston-Super-Mare on Sunday 2nd August. Luckily the weather was good, a bit of wind but plenty of sun. In fact, it got quite hot and we all drove home looking pretty pink!

It was a great day and I worked with people that I'd never worked with (or even met) before. There were five models involved - three girls, two boys - and three different scenes planned. The first was 'playing games on the beach'; the second was 'the morning after the night before' and the third was 'mermaids'. By the time we came around to the mermaids shoot however, the heavens opened and the beach wardens informed us that they were about to lock the beach up. I never knew that beaches got locked up??!!?? We still managed to create some beautiful images ...

The brilliant people involved:
Seb Chandler, photographer, www.sebchandler.com
Marie Claude Lamb, Stylist, mariecalude@hotmail.co.uk
Annette Sloly, Art Director, http://annettesloly.blogspot.com/
Me, Make-up Artist and Hair Stylist, www.sophiechamings.co.uk
Models: Chloe Huntley; Rosie Corr; Benedict Adams; Frankie Cosh; Aaaron Sage.

Great skincare product for summer!

2009-06-01T03:00:00.001-07:00

As you all know, I like to keep myself abreast with new (and exceptional) naturally made cosmetics and am forever investigating new ranges and products that I hear about.

Often, products are good but they are not exceptional in quality and let’s face it, the amount of money we spend on cosmetics should warrant exceptionally effective products - shouldn’t it?

Anyway, the point of this blog entry is not to whittle on about value for money but to tell you about a fabulous natural product that I have recently discovered. And, with summer on its way - now is the perfect time for you to go out and grab yourself one!

This fabulous product is the Madara tinted moisturiser (£21.50) - perfect for those summer months when you want to nourish your skin and look radiant, flawless and natural.

Most tinted moisturisers are either too greasy or do not give enough coverage. Some even look too heavy on the skin! Well, the Madara one gives a light but flawless coverage and there's no greasyness either! It comes in two different shades: moon flower (paler for fair to medium complexions) and sun flower (darker for more olive complexions). It is beautifully illuminating and will suffice as your daily moisturiser if needed. (The only person I would not recommend it for are those of you who suffer from oilyness/problem skin as it may be too rich for these skintypes).

Apart from its brilliance when applied, it looks beautiful in the bottle too!

Madara holds a natural and holistic approach to beauty. I would definitely recommend them for their quality, naturalness, ethics and style. For more information about Madara and their products, visit their website www.madara.co.uk

Portfolio 2: little Amy Norvs!

2009-05-19T06:22:00.001-07:00

Amy Norville was another one of my model volunteers. Elegant and stylish little Amy Norvs! xx

Portfolio 1: sexy and fun with attitude ...

2009-05-19T06:10:00.000-07:00

If I remember rightly, this was actually my first proper photoshoot - ever! Steph volunteered (never done modelling before) and I laughed so much I cried. It was great fun and I think Robin's pictures say it all ...

Portfolio 4: Bohemian chic

2009-05-19T05:53:00.000-07:00

Jess came to us having never done any modelling before but she was nothing but a pro. (as usual, photos by Bullit).

Portfolio 5: my first ever model photoshoot

2009-05-19T04:53:00.000-07:00

Holly was my first ever model photoshoot and I loved every minute of it. Not only was she lovely herself but we experimented with lots of looks and lots of different styles. I do feel that my more recent work is more skilled but I love these shots anyway - they have great sentimental value. I even tried to use black lipstick which looked awful but not so bad when we changed the photo to black and white!

Again, Robin from Bullit Photography took the pictures.

s

Portfolio 3: my red coat

2009-05-19T04:48:00.000-07:00

For those of you who feel that these photographs are different from my usual style, your feeling is right. I worked with a completely different photographer on this photoshoot. His name is Robbie, he is from Cheltenham and he has a part time job in La Tasca! And, that is all I know about him. One of my friends, another make-up artist from Plymouth, Miss. Jennifer Webb organised the shoot and we worked on a model each. As you can see, Robbie is very good at what he does. We did the shoot in his bedroom and ventured to the steps outside just before it got dark. I love the shots - they are arty and fun! As usual, feedback always welcome ...

Portfolio 8: Shooting Cinderella with Claire

2009-05-12T03:46:00.000-07:00

Claire was one of my students on the John Van G Bridal Make-up Workshop that I run for Susan Molyneux in Cheltenham. Soon after the workshop she booked in for Shooting Cinderella. The shoot was great and Claire was brilliant - especially as she'd never done anything like this before. She wanted to look like herself so we kept everything fairly natural. I styled her hair and did her make-up. Robin from Bullit photography took the photographs below ...

Portfolio 6: photoshoot photoshoot photoshoot

2009-05-11T01:56:00.000-07:00

This was a photoshoot we did a few weeks ago with a lovely model called Sarah - the shoot went really well but we tried to pack in too many different looks and we were all thoroughly exhausted by the end of it! My favourite pics are the one with the cream lacy top ... soft and beautiful don't you think?

Styling and make-up by ME!!!
Photos by Robin Bradshaw
Hair styled by Paco Delgado 01242 570755
Clothes from Feva Designs

Portfolio 7: my latest photoshoot revealed ...

2009-05-06T06:01:00.000-07:00

Beauty underlies everything we do but it can be very difficult to decide on a theme or style for the shoot until you have seen the model, assessed her character and watched the way she behaves in front of the camera. Then somehow, you get a vibe for what the shoot will be like and you start to get a feel for what will look good and what won't. We were going for 'chic natural glamour' and I think that's exactly what we got! This model (Katie Keight) had only ever done one model shoot before so I think she did exceptionally well. In fact I think we all did exceptionally well and I hope you'll agree that the shots are brilliant (thanks to all involved). I'd love to hear what you think ....

Styling and make-up by ME!!!
Photography by Robin Bradshaw
Clothes from Feva Designs
Hair styling by Paco Delgado - 01242 570755

Dr. Alkaitis Organic Skin Food

2009-03-30T12:45:00.000-07:00

With my eyes always open for exceptional natural cosmetics, I come into frequent contact with good and bad products from across the globe. Some products make a real difference for a few days and then the effects disperse. Some take ages to work and when they do, have little effect, and some have no effect whatsoever. One thing common to all - if not most - natural cosmetics is that they are not particularly desirable to look at.

I was recently fortunate enough to receive a natural skincare magazine and while flicking through the pages, I noticed a range of products that looked simply beautiful. They were simple, pure and fresh looking and somehow looked like they would really work!

I have since tried each and every one of these products and discovered their fascinating history too. I was so impressed that I felt I had to share them with you all.

As I am currently formulating my own recipes for my own skincare range, I was indecisive whether I should really be promoting another range. But, the products are so lovely that I can't resist. You must all promise me that even if you are devoted to this range for what you think will be your lifetime, you will at least give my products a chance to compete when they eventually land on the natural cosmetics shelves!

Dr. Alkaitis was a successful research scientist before embarking on creating his own skincare range. His products contain only organic, biodynamic and ethically wild crafted ingredients. His work convinced him that there is a link between the use of synthetic chemicals, and cancer and degenerative illnesses. I would say that I am inclined to agree.

There are a total of nine products in his range which can be used by every-one and anyone. They are exceptional quality, my favourite being the nourishing facial oil, the day cream, the night cream and the eye cream. The oils and serums need to be used with the moisturisers to get maximum effect. I have to say that the Soothing Gel was also really effective when I had my legs waxed the other day too! There is also a cleansing gel, a serum, an exfoliating mask and a nourishing clay based mask (I've just used this and my skin is smooth, soft and radiant - what more could you want from a facial mask?).

I have studied the ingredients lists intensely and the products are as pure as pure can be. The packaging is ethical and stylish too. The ingredients have been finely tuned to suit each product and while I am finalising the recipes for my skincare range, I will most definitely be using Dr. Alkaitis' products for my holistic facial treatments. It would be rude not to!

To find out more about Dr. Alkaitis' range, simply follow this link www.alkaitis.co.uk

Cooking oils for skincare

2009-03-18T09:42:00.000-07:00

Foolproof smoky eyes

2009-03-16T03:44:00.001-07:00

Smoky eyes is a hot topic of conversation, and it seems to me that most people would love to wear the look but don't know how to create it without looking like they've got black eyes! So, I thought I'd give you an easy way to do it. These steps can be followed by anyone and everyone out there but the shapes created with the shadows and pencils will differ for each individual eye shape and you will need to make that judgement yourself.

1. Start with a black/brown/grey eyeliner (it must be a soft one) and literally colour in your entire eyelid. You will need to keep opening your eye to check that you are not going over the edges. You shouldn't be able to see the eyeliner when you open your eye, except on your eyelid. Work the eyeliner into the lashes and bring it to just within each corner.

2. Using a clean eyeshadow blending brush, blend the edges of the colour up and outwards so that when you open your eye you begin to see the colour coming into the socket and sitting above the eye itself. Make sure you blend very thoroughly so that the sharp edge of the colour completely disappears. Blend subtly into the inside corner of the eye. You may want to spread the colour evenly all the way around the eye. Or, you may want to blend it into a more rounded shape, bringing it higher up into the centre of the brow bone. The most common look though is blending it upwards (onto the outer brow bone) and outwards (towards the hairline from the outer corner) to elongate the eye.

3. Using the same coloured eyeshadow, blend this on top of the pencil colour and into the socket line to give it staying power and intensify the colour.

4. Using a lighter shade of the colours you have already used, blend this into the eye socket and outside the edges of the darker colour to soften the look.

5. Use the eyeliner pencil to draw a line along the lower lashes (as close to them as possible) Start from the outside corner and work inwards. The further in you go, the more dramatic the eye will look. Use a cotton bud to smudge this so that there are no sharp edges.

6. You can use the lighter coloured eyeshadow over and below the line you have just smudged to soften it if it looks too strong.

7. Use a dark or a white eyeliner inside the bottom rim of the eye and the upper rim of the inside part of the eye (where there are no eyelashes). A dark eyeliner will look more dramatic and a white one will freshen up the look and open up the eye.

8. Use a silver/gold/cream eyeshadow and blend it lightly into the inside corner of the eye, bringing it underneath slightly and blending it across to the dark line under the eye. This will brighten the eye.

9. Apply mascara to top and bottom lashes.

10. Apply a lighter shade of eyeshadow under the brow bone. Sometimes an under eye concealer can be used for this as it acts as a subtle highlighter.

NB. Blending is key!!! Do your eyes before the rest of your face to avoid any spill on your make-up base. And, remember to finish off with nude lips, use blusher on your cheeks and make sure you use under eye concealer - especially if you have dark circles under your eyes. Smoky eyes can highlight these even more!

Get smooth, supple, radiant skin ready for Spring!

2009-03-08T01:05:00.000-08:00

Spring's on its way and so now's the time to start thinking about shedding our winter layers and getting fresh and radiant! I've got six top natural beauty tips to get you well on the way to beautiful, clear, radiant skin. If you follow them as I say, you can't go wrong ... Oh, and if you want some individual advice, check out the facials page on my website to see the different treatments I offer.

1. Use a facial oil every night. Facial oils are by far the most effective skincare products on the shelf today but there aren't enough of them around! They are nourishing, hydrating and rejuvenating but you've got to make sure you get the right one. The following oils are all high in Omega 6 and so will work wonders for giving your skin that summer glow. Look out for them in a facial oil and you will be on the right track: Rosehip Seed Oil; Thistle Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, Hemp Oil, Borage Oil, Walnut oil.

Recommended ready-made facial oils: Neal's Yard Remedies Orange Flower Facial Oil, Decleor Aromessence Neroli Facial Oil, Living Nature Radiance Night Oil.

2. Exfoliate your skin twice a week with a muslin cloth or an organic flannel. Massage a balm into your skin and leave for a few minutes. This will soften dead skin cells. Wet a cloth in warm water and massage balm off face with small circular motions. This will gently but thoroughly remove dead skin cells and anything that may be blocking pores. If you've got dry lips, don't forget to exfoliate them too. Follow with your facial oil for best results.

Recommended product: Neal's Yard Remedies Wild Rose Beauty Balm.

3. Use a nourishing facial mask once a week to give your skin a boost of everything it needs. Use this after you exfoliate for best results. Follow with your facial oil.

Recommended products: Living Nature Ultra Nourishing Facial Mask, Clarins Thirst Quenching Mask (not totally natural but exceptionally good).

4. Use a clay mask once a week to give your skin a deep cleanse. Use this immediately after you exfoliate to get the best results. Follow with your facial oil.

Recommended products: Neal's Yard Remedies White Tea facial mask, Living Nature Deep Cleansing Mask.

5. Eat lots and lots of seeds, nuts, avocados, oily fish and/or take an omega supplement such as Cod Liver Oil or Flaxseed Oil.

Recommended supplements: Seven Seas Cod Liver Oil, Solgar Flaxseed Oil, Viridian Beauty Oil.

6. Drink plenty of H2O. Recommendations vary but I would say at least 2 litres every day. Keep a bottle next to you at all times - it makes it much easier. Avoid tap water if possible and look at the labels on the back of bottled water to check there are no nasties floating around!

Baby skin healing oil ...

2009-02-01T05:26:00.000-08:00

A fellow 'blog follower' asked me about oils and natural potions that can be used on baby skin. Not being a Mum myself, I do not understand the apparent frustrations that Mums suffer when trying to find natural products for their babies that actually work! Well, I have found an excellent recipe from a trusted source.

A baby's skin is delicate and sensitive and we need to be extra careful when using products on it. When looking at the ingredients in some of the baby products on the shelves at the moment, it is rather alarming. Apart from the immediate damage nasty ingredients can cause to a baby's skin, I often wonder what kind of problems those ingredients might cause in the future.

Anyway, I have discovered an amazing recipe full of gentle, natural and healing ingredients. I know that Mums don't have much time on their hands, but all you need to do is stir the oils together and you have a blend to massage onto your baby day and night. Great for nappy rash too! Ingredients can be bought from http://www.aromantic.co.uk/ It is not generally a product I make but if I get enough enquiries, I will make some big jars full for you all! So, if you're reading this - send it on to all the other Mums you know ... The recipe is as follows:

100ml ...
40 ml Shea Butter Oil
20ml Rosehip Seed Oil
10ml Thistle Oil
10ml Evening Primrose Oil
10ml St. John's Wort Oil
4ml Calendular Oil
5ml/g Vitmain E Oil
1ml/g Sea Buckthorn CO2 Extract
% drops of Rosemary Antioxidant

Magic facial oil for computer facing skin...

2009-01-27T12:56:00.000-08:00

When I first got my laptop, I felt a bit strange. I didn't want to use it and I didn't even want to look at it. I couldn't explain why. And then I realized that I was being dragged - rather reluctantly - into a world obsessed by technology; a world that I try to avoid.

Anyway, that said, I began using my laptop and now I don't know what I'd do without it. I use it for all sorts of things: I shop, I network, I use it to advertise and market my business and I use it to keep in touch with clients and friends.

The amount of time I spend on it got me thinking about what the glare from its screen was doing to my skin. Research suggests that continual exposure to computers and laptops (electromagnetic waves) thins the skin - making it weaker and more prone to aging and various skin problems. Think about how you feel after using a computer for a long period of time compared to how you feel after going out for a long walk or doing something in the fresh air. Here, you have your answer!

Anyway, the point of this entry is to give you a magic recipe for a facial oil which will help to protect your skin from the evil glare of your computer screen! You can make it at home - it's quick, easy and low-cost compared to the creams I see on the high-street. Make sure your ingredients are top-quality though. You can buy them from www.aromantic.co.uk

40ml Sunflower Oil will give your skin some sun
25ml Rosehip Seed Oil which is one of the best skin oils ever (I will write about this oil in my next blog as it forms the base of all of my facial oils)
10ml Borage Oil - full of Omega 6 which is extremely nourishing for the skin
5ml Calendular Oil will give your skin some more sun and help with healing
5ml Pumpkin Seed Oil will lift and firm and therefore help with ageing
15ml Vitamin E Oil which is an amazing antioxidant
10ml Jojoba Oil can be added for protection if you have any room in your bottle!

Use your oil whenever you can but make sure you're wearing it when you're using your computer! Let me know how you get on and if you want me to make one for you, get in touch ...

Beat the winter blues

2009-01-22T11:48:00.000-08:00

I had to write a little blog today and tell you what a difference Olive Oil, Flaxseed Oil and Avocados have made to the way I feel. I feel full of energy, emotionally 'balanced' and RADIANT! I did feel low after Christmas and tired from the short days and cold weather. I have been taking the Solgar (www.solgar.co.uk) Flaxseed Oil capsules for nearly six weeks now. For the past three weeks, I have cut out red meat, cut out butter and been eating plenty of olive oil and avocados.

Olive oil is known to lower cholesterol levels in the blood, lower blood sugar levels and lower blood pressure. Olive oil is a major part of a Mediterranean diet, which could help explain why they are healthier and have fewer heart problems than us Westerners. Regardless, the changes I have made to my diet have made such a difference to the way I feel. My skin looks brighter and my hair is glossy!

Vegetable oils, seed oils and fish oils are ultra-good for us. Packed full of essential fatty acids, they help with a number of things ... skin, hair, nails, joints, depression, energy etc. etc. There are a number of different oils and the ones to go for are the ones with a high Omega 3 and Omega 6 content (many say Omega 3s are more important as this is what we don't have as much of in our diets). Flaxseed Oil is packed full of Omega 3s. I highly recommend making these changes but if you are going to take a nutritional supplement, make sure it is good quality (like Solgar, or Viridian). It will cost you more than the ones off the shelf in the supermarket but is well worth it. The better quality ones are purer and more easily absorbed into our systems.

£10 off your first treatment with me!!

2009-01-21T03:27:00.001-08:00

Today marks the beginning of a new adventure for me, as I am moving away from Neal's Yard Remedies and into my own beautiful treatment room - where I am able to use a range of natural and organic products from all different cosmetics ranges. Working independently means I can now choose the best products for your skin and particular look, regardless of brand.

I have also just secured a regular slot on BBC Radio Gloucestershire so listen out for me on a Tuesday morning with John Rockley! Will keep you posted about dates.

To celebrate the move to my own treatment room, I would like to offer you £10 off any of my treatments until the 31st March 2009. Please see my website www.sophiechamings.co.uk. Just quote 'be naturally beautiful ...' when booking to get your £10 off.

My new treatment room is at: Tetbury Practice, Lower Ground Floor, 37 St. George's Road, Cheltenham, GL50 3DU.

TOP BEAUTY TIP: For those of you whose skin is feeling dry from the cold weather, you should be using a facial oil at night! Facial oils are the most effective skincare product I've ever come across. They are great for wrinkles, fine lines, acne, psoriasis, eczema, moisturising, nourishing, minimising pores, anti-ageing, scars ... and the list goes on. Take a look at the 'products' page of my website where I can tailor blend an oil just for you ... http://www.sophiechamings.co.uk/