Lost in Life

Hey all!

It hit me today that I haven't updated The Purple is Bliss in quite a while, almost a month! To be honest I've put pretty much everything by the way-side lately, not just this blog but my channel, my classes at college…everything. You could say I've been a little lost in myself and my life lately. I've been battling some depression and anxiety recently and it's just been very difficult for me to have a passion for my classes or anything, let alone this blog and my Youtube channel. I might as well just fill you in on a few updates…

I recently got my nose pierced!…as in Monday I went to the tattoo/piercing place and got it done. Literally as a compulsion. I had been thinking about it for a couple years and since I still had some gift cards from graduation, I decided to get it done. And I'm so happy I did! I absolutely love my nose piercing! I've been contemplating doing a video on it but that will just depend on your interest really. I'd be happy to take any questions and make it a sort of Q&A video about my experience with my nose piercing etc. Just comment with your questions and let me know! I would love to tell you more about it.

As I mentioned before I've been a little  very neglectful go my classes this semester. I cannot find the motivation or the passion for my classes. They just seem so dull! And really they are! They only class I genuinely enjoy going to is my Communication class. My class is Communication 101, which pretty much means a speech class (as in getting up in front and giving speeches non-stop)…at least that's what I thought. I'm incredibly happy that I was wrong! My professor is amazing and is really laid back and open with the class. And I really love the assignments she gives. They are really helping me right now. This class is literally the only class I don't mind going to. I'm thinking about looking into communication further….even if it means giving speeches.

I've also been thinking about looking into going into business either as a major or a minor. I really want to invent my own company and my own brand of something. Makeup maybe? I mean, I've looked up to Elle and Blair Fowler since forever and I see what amazing things they've achieved. They have their own brand and they're so successful. I would just love the opportunity to do that. Unfortunately I don't have exactly all the resources they do so…I'm thinking business. We will see where it goes. Other than that I've just been trying to pull myself out of some of this depression and anxiety and just get through this semester. I'll keep you updated!

xoxo,

Grace

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What I Love About Breakfast At Tiffany's

and no, it's not just Audrey Hepburn!

Lately I've been on such a Breakfast At Tiffany's kick and I just have to blog about it! I've loved this gem of a romantic comedy for a few years now but, it's one of those movies that I can only watch when I'm really in the mood for it. In case you aren't very familiar with the film, it takes place in New York in 1961 and follows the story of the glamorous Holly Golightly (played by none other than the gorgeous Audrey Hepburn!) who makes her living by flirting with and dating rich socialites to get money, jewelry and other goods. However when a young and attractive man, Paul Varjak, becomes her neighbor and attraction; her lifestyle starts to catch up to her as she realizes that she really does love him and not for his wealth. If this storyline isn't enough to love, well, I've got an entire list of things to love about Breakfast at Tiffany's:

1. New York circa 1961: There is just something so charming about the scenery in this film. I can barely take it. You can't help but completely fall in love with Holly's apartment and the city she holds so dear! I'm gushing!!

2. The opening scene: In my opinion one of the most iconic scenes in motion picture history! This is the scene that any vintage geek gushes over. The black dress, breathtaking pearls, perfect sunglasses…and that hair!!! Oy vey! Someone stop me!

3. The costuming!: Sweet lord, here we go again. The styling and fashion in this film is just impeccable! All the outfits just look stunning are are so timeless. Holly wears leggings for crying out loud and stylishly, I might add! And that pink ensemble! OOMF!! We'll get to that one!

4. Paul Varjak: What a hunk!!!! How would you like to wake up to this every morning. I know I would be delighted!

5. The Lipstick: Holly choice of lipstick color is to die for! It's a pinkish orange color…almost like a salmon. It's just so flawless and youthful. From my understanding the closest you can get to this color without spending an arm and a leg is Revlon's Pink In The Afternoon. I know what I'm getting at ULTA on the next visit. :)

6. Her Eyebrows: I know, I know. It's a strange favorite! But I couldn't help but notice how perfect her eyebrows are. Don't you agree?

7. Loads and loads of memorable quotes: Like the one in the picture to the left, this movie is chalk full of quotes that really make this movie what it is.

8. The Cab Scene: It's the final scene in the movie where Paul finally decides to confess his love to Holly. Of course, the strong willed Holly, delivers probably the most memorable lines in the film. This scene between the two of them was done so well. Just go watch the movie!

This list is making me want to go watch it for the 4th time this week! I hope you enjoyed the list and if you haven't seen the film, give it a shot! If you're already a fan, please, feel free to tell me your favorites from Breakfast at Tiffany's in the comments! Have a wonderful day, darlings!

xoxo,

Grace
(thePurpleisBliss)

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Resolutions TAG

My new year has been off to a very shaky start, emotionally speaking. I've started off 2014 sort of down in the dumps about life and money situations and all sorts of other issues. I just know that I didn't plan on starting off the new year in tears and sadness. Luckily I have friends that have me looking forward to things once I go back to campus. Don't worry it will be documented in photo and video! But, I thought I might as well brighten my mood by answering the questions from NikkiTutorials' Resolutions TAG. Here we go!

This tag is broken up into two parts: Looking back on 2013 and Resolutions for the new year.

Looking back:

1. Name 3 things you did this year that you're proud of

The first thing that I'm proud of myself for accomplishing was graduating high school. I never seriously doubted that I would graduate high school and I know that people will argue that compared to other life experiences this task is fairly easy but you know what? it's a huge accomplishment at this point in my life and I'm proud of it.

The second thing would have to be getting accepted into the colleges I applied to. I started out really doubtful that I would be accepted at all because I had no confidence in myself. However, I was accepted to all of them that I applied to.

Third would probably be gaining confidence. I'm pretty satisfied with how I've learned to stand up for myself and do things outside of my comfort zone. I'm still not the most social of butterflies but, I'm not as much of a wall flower either.

2. Name 1 thing you wish you would have done differently

This one is kind of a hard one because there are two "events" or "instances" that stand out to me for this question. One being not applying to MORE colleges then I did. I wish I would have had the courage and self-esteem to apply to a few more institutions such as the Art Institute. I think I missed out some with not apply to other institutions and weighing my options better. The second example again has to do with confidence. I wish I would have had the confidence to apply to jobs over the summer before I started college. I feel like I could have used my time better if I would have done that. So, I guess the main thing I wish I would have done differently was to have the confidence to do these things.

3. What was your biggest highlight this year?

I think you probably already know but in case you don't, my biggest highlight of the year was graduating from high school. It has been the proudest moment of my life so far.

4. What was your favorite beauty product this year?

This is a hard one but, I've vowed not to put down my Lorac Pro palette as my favorite product. The reason being, because it's just too new of a product to me. So, my favorite would have to be the whole Curlesque hair care system. You can view my video about it here! It's seriously a miracle treatment for curly hair. I just love it!

5. What was your least favorite beauty product this year?

This one is just too easy and it would have to be any or all of the BB and CC creams. Dear lord, they do NOTHING unless you already have perfect porcelain skin. Honestly, I only kept mine to use as a primer for other foundations. Hopefully, 2014 is a good riddance to the creams!!

6. Who do you thank for being amazing this year?

Without a doubt it would have to be my mother. Even though she does things to piss me off she has been there for me no matter what in 2013. :)

Resolutions:

7. What makeup/ beauty resolutions do you have for this year?

I definitely want to make more makeup tutorials here and on my youtube channel. I want to explore and expand my knowledge of makeup with these tutorials. I love making them so much so I definitely want to make more!

8. What fashion resolutions do you have for this year?

Hmm, I haven't really thought of this one. I suppose I'm going to try to be more fashion forward and look more put together for class.

9. What are your personal resolutions?

I wrote a post earlier that detailed some of my more personal resolutions but, it doesn't hurt to review and state them again. First off, I'm really serious about making use of the gym on campus and going there 3-4 times a week. Second, I really need to focus on my classes this semester and not skip as much. This brings my to one of my final resolutions and that would have to be making the deans list. I really want to make the deans list this year (both semesters if I can)! I'm confident I can do it if I can go to class each time!!

10. Name 1 thing you want to check off your bucket list this year

I want to check off two! First of all, I want to reach 100 subscribers on Youtube in 2014. Second, I want to go on a road trip with my friends and not give a shit where we end up. I just want to go!

I hope you enjoyed this TAG and you respond with your own answers via blog post or video! Have a wonderful second day of your new year!

xoxo,

Grace
(ThePurpleisBliss)

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Happy New Year!!!

Happy New Year and welcome 2014! Even though the New Years "Eve" festivities are through, there is still celebrating to be done!  I don't know about you but, I want this new year to be a new beginning and a chance to start anew and change for the better. So, let's celebrate! I hope your new year starts off well and you all enjoy time with your families today. You could even try out this makeup look in the tutorial above to go to new years dinner? (hint, hint) Anyway, enjoy your new year, new beginnings and your families! 

xoxo,

ThePurpleisbliss

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Misty Day of American Horror Story Inspired Makeup Tutorial

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Tired of Feeling "Fake"

Hey all,

Happy Halloween!!!

I've been thinking lately about my Youtube channel in comparison with my Tumblr. On Youtube I almost talk exclusively about makeup etc, which I'm extremely passionate about and will continue to do. However, on my Tumblr, I can be...how do I put this? Very opinionated! It bugs me to death that I feel scared almost to post my opinions via Youtube. It might be that I have an issue with confrontation and I'm scared of the backlash I might get for posting opinions.

I mentioned in my "50 Facts About Me" tag that I was a feminist, which I think some people think of as something "bad". Society teaches that the word "feminist" or "feminism" is a dirty word etc. So, by association...it scares me to voice these opinions. But here's the thing, it's not me to just talk about makeup! I'm passionate for a lot more than that. I'm tired of feeling fake. I'm tired of feeling like I'm hiding something from the world.

I really want to explore my filmmaking abilities and my photography abilities more and I feel like a soley "makeup" channel just isn't going to cut it. I've been working really hard to figure SOMETHING out for my channel because even with college and everything it's still something I want to do and that I miss. Therefore, there might be a slight change in what I put up and the quantity that I put up. Hold up! I'll still be doing makeup related videos but, I also might be doing other more...me videos. I 'm going to post a video about my vintage camera collection soon, I promise. As far as my room tour well...it's still in the works. But, my newest video will probably be an update video talking about this and a few other things going on. I'm also going to be tweaking this blog quite a bit...

Be patient and stay tuned,

ThePurpleisbliss

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The Epiduo Diaries #2 - Skincare

I realize that it's been a while since I did an Epiduo Diaries entry! I did one on my last blog when I had just started using Epiduo so, today I thought I would delve further into Epiduo and explain to you my skin care routine. Now, lately I've had a couple of break outs on the side of my face that I sleep on more often. I attribute this recent development to not washing my pillowcase as I should. :( But, have no fear, I have since washed it. I also would attribute this to not cleaning my face brushes once a week, again, as I should. I've learned my lesson, wash your face brushes and pillowcase once a week!

Okay, without further ado, my skincare routine and products:

1. Cetaphil Oil Control Foam Wash: When I visited my doctor to try to get a prescription to treat my acne she gave me a sample kit that included a small pump bottle of this product, a small tube of Epiduo and some Cetaphil moisturizer. I immediately went home and used this wash and I really do love it! My face feels very clean and tightened afterwards which I love.

2. Clinique Acne Solutions Toner: My doctor also suggested I try Clinique's washes, toners and moisturizers so I bought an acne kit online and at first I did not enjoy these products. They burned and I was led to believe that these products were too strong for my skin. But, I gave it another go and I noticed that it helped dry up problem areas during the day while I wasn't wearing the Epiduo on my face.

3. Clinique Acne Solutions Moisturizer: The same goes for this product as the toner. This treats while it moisturizes. Great!

4. Garnier Refreshing Makeup Removing Towelettes: I use these to take my makeup off but I also use them to wash my face off when it feels icky or if I've been sweating and my face feels gritty. These towelettes are very sensitive to use on your face and the formula isn't too harsh so it doesn't leave redness. The fragrance isn't bad either!

5. Epiduo Gel: And, of course, what we all came for! Expect a miracle but, don't expect a miracle. You are going to notice a dramatic difference after the first use but, just like with new shampoos for your hair, your face has to adjust. You will still have breakouts! Right now, I'm getting closer to "that time of the month" and when that time rolls around I break out like a b*tch! However, I've noticed that I have not broken out as much as normal. WAHOO!!! Just don't get your hopes up it you still get break outs from time to time. That's supposed to happen. You know? Hormones and all.

Phew, now that you know what I put on my face I bet your wondering what my routine is, right?

Morning: In the morning I first get up and wash my face using the Cetaphil wash. Noting too fancy about it, just pump some into your hand and wash off your face. I then dab it dry with a towel. Next, I take the Clinique toner and put a bit on a cotton ball or cotton pad and dab it on my problem areas or sometimes all over my face just to make sure. Finally, I apply moisturizer and voila!

Night: The nightly routine is a little more time consuming. Wash face, check! Toner, check! And last but not least: Epiduo. You squeeze a small drop (the size of a pea) onto your finger and apply it all over your face. You don't need much! A thin layer will make a dramatic difference. You face will dry out TERRIBLY if you use too much. Personal experience here! You leave it on all night and wash it off in the morning.

I really hope you gained some knowledge from this post and that if you have problem skin you can talk to your doctor about Epiduo. I think it really works if you can commit to it and stick with it. You have to stick with a face routine, ESPECIALLY if you have acne prone skin. And, you have to make sure you're being sanitary. Wash your pillow case and makeup brushes once a week and your bedding every other week or two. Here is how I clean my makeup brushes:

         

Also, I know if you're an anxious person like me and you like to pick (scabs, acne etc.) you really have to try to stop because it will scar and scar badly! Not to mention get infection which only leads to more breakouts and skin issues. Best of luck and happy skincare!

 Make sure you subscribe to my Youtube channel for bloopers from the friend tag coming up next week. Also, I'm going to be reviewing a product called TONE here soon, which has it's ties to my skincare routine! I'm also hoping on doing a "easy hairstyles for curly hair" video soon! STAY TUNED!!

xoxo,

ThePurpleisbliss

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The Essential Brush Guide for Beginners

Brushes can be confusing! There are like a million different kinds out there and if you are new to makeup it's hard to choose which ones you will need or even want. So, here you are; you've ditched the sponge applicators and are ready to battle with the pro's but, where do you begin?! 

Before we get into brushes it's important that you know which parts of the face are which. Take a long look at this diagram (that I made especially for y'all!) and make yourself familiar with the parts of the eye and face. 

Brow Bone: Your brow bone is just under your eyebrow. It's the part between your eyebrow and the hollow of your eye. 

Crease: Your crease is just under your brow bone in the hollow where your bone and eyeball meet. To make things simpiler: your crease "creases" when your eye is open.

Lid: The lid is the part of your skin that covers your eyeball when you close your eyes. Simple enought, right?

Waterline: Your waterline is where your eyeliner goes. It's the small piece of skin on your lower lid that touches your eyeball. 

Inner Corner: The inner corner of your eye is the closest part of your eye to your nose. It's where your upper and lower lids come together. 

Outer V: This is the part of your eye where your upper and lower lids come together closest to your hairline. If you look at the outer corners of your eyes, this part is literally a "V". Check out the diagram for a visual if needed.

Apples: I'm not sure where the term "apples" came from when describing your cheek bones but, nonetheless, that's what they are called. This is also where your blush goes.

Phew! Now that that is over we can get to what we came for: brushes! Oh yeah! This is the fun part! I think it will be best to start with face brushes. Here we go: 

1. The Foundation Brush: The foundation brush should be the foundational brush (see what I did there!) in your brush kit. These brushes are often very thin and have a domed or flat top. This brush is used to apply and blend foundation to your face. 

2. The Stippling Brush: This brush is a recent discovery of mine and it's one I'm glad I made. This brush is quite thick and has a flat, circular top. It's used to dab and blend foundation or concealer onto the face. It works great at blending and applying foundation evenly. Definitely one you'll want to have in your kit!

3. The Kabuki Brush: Or as I like to call it, the brush of many uses. The Kabuki brush can be used in many ways. You can use it to apply powder to the face, blush, or to contour. This brush is thick and has more of a domed top. It's often extremely soft! 

4. The Eyebrow Brush: This brush might look tricky but its quite simple! Basically it's a hairbrush for your eyebrows. It just helps keep those tiny little hairs in check. 

5. The Blush Brush: As the title suggests this brush is used to apply blush to your apples. Pretty simple! My brush is angled (useful for contouring as well) but most foundation brushes are fluffy with a domed top.

Face Smace! Now it's time to deal with the big leagues! Eyeshadow Brushes: 

1. Eyeliner Brush: Used to apply eyeliner, this brush is very similiar to the foundation brush except it had a flat top. This brush can also be used to define certain parts of your eye-makeup to achieve the look you want. 

2. Domed Eyeshadow Brush: This brush is often used to apply shadow to your lid or to highlight your brow bone. This is the most essential brush you will need for eye makeup. These brushes have a domed top and are of medium thickness. 

3. Angled Crease Brush: This brush is angled and isn't very thick. This brush is used to apply shadow to your crease. The angle allows for extra defining of your crease to make it seem deeper or to "pop" more.

4. Crease Brush: Just like the angled crease brush, this brush is used to apply shadow to the crease. My brush also helps in blending your lid color with your crease color to help your makeup look better put together. 

5. The Blending Brush: The holy grail of brushes! Most beginners tend to forget (or don't even know!) that blending your eyeshadow colors will make your makeup look seamless and well put together. If you don't blend your makeup will look very blotchy! This brush is quite thick and is very soft. 

There you have it, ten brushes all beginners need! Good luck and happy makeup-ing! :)

xoxo,

ThePurpleisbliss

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