Combating Winter: Beautiful Brows

Check out my latest article featured here:  Combating Winter: Beautiful Brows

Anna Castillo of @inkcosmetics getting threaded!

Special thanks to Traci Allen Inc. for all your marketing and PR support!

XOXO Besos,
Anna Castillo
Celebrity Make-up Artista
www.inkcosmetics.com

GET THE LOOK - Jason Wu F/W 2012

Photo:  Luca Cannonieri / GoRunway.com

Beauty for the fashion house of Jason Wu fall/winter 2012 runway show at New York Fashion Week on Thursday, reflected an old Hollywood meets Army soldier.  Oh, how we love greens!  

This look is more simple than you think!  We recreated the look for a fraction of the designer price!  

To get this look:

1.  Even your complexion with INK...Cosmetics Foundation Sticks ($24) and cover any dark areas with our Corrector Duos ($18).

2.  Next, add INK... Shadow Primer on the lid ($15 - lasts forever!).

3.  With a wide shadow brush, apply INK... Eye Dust in Ambition - ($16.50) all over the lid.

INK Cosmetics - Ambition Eye Dust

4.  Using a smudge brush, apply INK... Eye Dust in Mint Chocolate - ($16.50 - color is iridescent and changes with other shadows) to the outer corner of your eye blending into a point.

INK Cosmetics - Mint Chocolate Eye Dust

 

5.  Add INK... Eye liner in Jet black ($9.50) on the top lash line.  With an angled brush, blend the color down onto the outer corner of your bottom lashes (don't apply liner on the bottom, just smoke it out).

6.  Use a lash curler to flip your upper lashes.  Top with INK... Volume Mascara ($15).

7.  With and angled blush brush, apply INK... Blush in Breathless ($15).

8.  Finish the look by applying INK... Lip Stick in Naked Creme ($12).

INK Cosmetics Naked Creme Lip Stick

 

Luca Cannonieri / GoRunway.com

Love it?  Wear it!  Share it!

XOXO Besos,
Anna Castillo

Like us on Facebook:  INK Cosmetics, LLC

TORCHED! Get the Look with INK Cosmetics

We are loving Amanda Thomas' jewelry!  This vintage and simplistic feel set our fashion senses on fire!  We wanted to share this "Torched" make-up look with you and share our tips on how to achieve it.


Get the Look:

1.  Start with clean and moisturized skin.

2.  Use INK...Cosmetics Corrector Duo in Special/Light.  Add concealer under the eyes and on any dark areas of the skin.

3.  Add a touch of INK...Foundation Stick on the bridge of the nose, sides of the face, forehead, chin and neck.  Blend product with a foundation brush in circular motions.

4.  Set foundation with INK...Oil Control Powder (great for every skin tone).

5.  Tap INK...Shadow Base on the lids.

6.  Apply our bold effect/pressed pigment shadow in TORCH with a wide shadow brush.  I like to pat the product on so it is precisely in place.

Torch is available at www.shopinkcosmetics.com On SALE Now!  (Torch - top row center color)

7.  Line your top lash line with INK...Jet Black Pencil Liner.

8.  Top eyes with INK...Black Mascara.

9.  Set  with INK...Oil Control Powder.

10. Finish look with INK... Lip Gloss in Fresh!

All products available at www.shopinkcosmetics.com

Help spread the word and like us on Facebook!  INK...Cosmetics, LLC Thank you so much for your kindness and support!

XOXO BESOS!
Anna Castillo

Madonna in Givenchy Couture! Get the Look!

Madonna at 2012 Super Bowl Half-time Show.  Get the look with INK...Cosmetics.

Madonna 2012 Super Bowl Half-time Show.  Get the look with INK..Cosmetics.

We LOVE Madonna!  Her performance last night was much overdue!  This is a woman who exudes style and sophistication!  She wore Givenchy Couture during the 2012 Superbowl half time show and looked freaking amazing!  We couldn't help but dissect her makeup choice. 

Want to recreate this look?  We recommend using INK...Cosmetics Shadow Palette in Pride:

INK Cosmetics Pride Shadow Quad!

1.  Start by sweeping the camel color (upper left) all over the eye!

2.  Using a crease shadow brush, take the light brown color (lower right) and add to the crease of the eye. 

3.  With a fluff shadow brush add the dark brown color (upper right) to the outer corners of your eyes.

4.  For a more dramatic look be sure to apply demi-whispy lashes with dark glue adhesive.

5.  Line your eyes with dark brown liner extending the liner out side of your lash line.

6.  Finish look with INK...Cosmetics XOXO Lip Gloss:

INK Cosmetics XOXO Lip Gloss

All products available now at www.shopinkcosmetics.com!

Help spread the word! Like us on Facebook:  INK...Cosmetics, LLC

XOXO Besos!

Classical Elegance - Make-up Look

Model: Petra Karolsson

To get Petra's Classical Elegance Make-up Look try INK...Cosmetics Shadow Trio in Nature:

Line your eyes with our Jet Black Liner:

Finish off the look with INK...Cosmetics Lip Stick in Diablo:

Don't forget your nails!  We love OPI Royal Rajah Ruby:

XOXO Besos,

Join us on Facebook:  INK...Cosmetics, LLC

INK Cosmetics $500 BEAUTY BY YOU Product Giveaway

This is our Valentine's Day gift to you!  Show us "BEAUTY BY YOU!"

Upload hour video to YouTube and email your video link to anna@inkcosmetics.com

Contest rules:

Your "BEAUTY BY YOU" video must meet the following:

1. Create a 5 minute makeup video tutorial of YOU doing your OWN makeup. Teach the view how to accomplish your look.  Share your beauty tips and skincare regimen.  Add before/after image to your video.  (NOTE:  Video must be of a high quality with great sound and lighting and participants can only upload one video for this contest).

2.  Makeup look must be age appropriate.  Age limits: 13 years old as of Feb 1st and beyond.  Gender:  WHAT?  Anyone who wants to show off their beauty skills are welcome! 

3.  Post video to the response of this video and email link to anna@inkcosmetics.com

4.  Participants must like our INK...Cosmetics, LLC Fan Page at:
LIKE INK...Cosmetics, LLC on Facebook

5.  Participants must follow us on Twitter at:  @inkcosmetics
This contest is open to U.S. and international participants.  For other countries we ask that you add subtitles in English explaining your looks where possible.

Prize:

$500 dollars of INK...Cosmetics Products.

Including but not limited to:

Makeup Case
Cosmetics Brushes
Face Palettes
Shadow Palettes
Face Primer
Duo Corrector
Lip Pencils
Eye Pencils
Lip Lusters
Lip Glosses
Lip Sticks
Eye Dusts
Blush
Shadow
Bronzer
Makeup Remover
Beauty Tools
Lashes
Lash Glue

We look are excited to see your beauty looks and wish all of you the best of luck. 

Video entries close out at 12PM Feb. 14th.  The winner will be announced before 12 AM on Feb. 15th. 

WE HOPE YOU HAVE FUN WITH THIS AND WE WISH YOU A LOVING AND BEAUTIFUL VALENTINE'S DAY!

XOXO BESOS,
Anna Castillo
www.inkcosmetics.com
www.shopinkcosmetics.com

Natural Make-up Tutorial! Best for everyday or right after a brow shaping!

 

Products available at www.shopinkcosmetics.com

Be sure to watch the pre-video on how to do an at home brow shaping!

XOXO Besos,

Anna Castillo

INK Cosmetics BEAUTY BY YOU Giveaway! WINNER receives $500 of cosmetics

To show our gratitude for the amazing month at www.shopinkcosmetics.com which launched on January 1st, 2012 we are kicking off a "Beauty by YOU" giveaway contest! Start practicing now!  \
Anna Castillo will post a video on February 1st, 2012 with contest rules!

For now... view the press release, contestants must like our page on Faceboo and follow us on Twitter!

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK
TWITTER
 

There are two chances to win and this contest is open to ANYONE (boys and girls, men and women) 13 years of age or higher!  Makeup must be age appropriate and exude your best techniques and features.  Plus, you must add at minimum, one favorite makeup tip you have seen, read or heard!  We are so excited to see how you INK...it up! :-)

Click Image to Enlarge

   

GET READY BEAUTIES!  IT'S GAME TIME! SEE YOU SOON! XOXO BESOS!

WE ARE OPEN FOR BUSINESS!

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2012!

http://www.shopinkcosmetics.com/



HIS 9 to 5 by www.inkcosmetics.com

Fall is filled with family time, holiday happiness, and new experiences.

We’ve noticed an array of new campaigns and couldn’t help but jump on the band wagon. I took about an hour in the woods with my wonderful husband and soul mate Christopher Crabb. All to cover “His 9 to 5” a shoot which will be part of our continued Unisexed Campaign for Spring 2012.

Chris, an avid ink…cosmetics men’s skin care user and ultimate sexy rugged metrosexual, works hard and plays hard. While at work, he sports suits by H & M® or Ralph Lauren® as you see here with a side arm for protection at minimum. While on his turf (acres of open land,) for play he’s armed with his favorite Firestorm Bow by PSE®. I love a man who can function well in business attire.

Is your man in need of a new skincare regimen? Have him try Chris’ fool proof technique to keep his skin feeling sexy all winter long.

AM:



Apply small amount of Men’s Facial Cleanser by ink…cosmetics, lather and rinse.



Spread Men’s Saving Gel by ink…cosmetics on beard area. Leave on 1 min. Shave and rinse away.



Apply Cooling After Shave by ink…cosmetics which will help hold moisture to prevent dehydration and wrinkles.




Finish with Vitamin C moisturizer by ink…cosmetics for a lightweight skin aid that will help improve elasticity.



PM:


Apply a small amount of Men’s Facial Cleanser, lather and rinse.


Once a week apply a small amount of Men’s Facial Scrub by ink…cosmetics on face and neck area, message in a circular motion, allow to sit 1-2 mins. for a deep exfoliation, then rinse well




Top with Vitamin C Moisturizer.

PRODUCTS AVAILABLE AT http://www.wsalonva.com/ NOW! 

Online ordering opening Jan 2012.

EXTRA CARE
For that extra finish, spoil him by booking a Men’s manicure at your nail salon while you get yours.

CHRIS' REAL HUNTING TIPS:

• Wash clothes in Scent FREE detergents prior to heading out.
• Eat a good breakfast.
• Dress warm.
• Make sure your weapon is sighted in.
• Do pre-season scouting.
• Invest in a good tree stand.
• Wear camoflauged clothing. (MUA Note: Suit for editorial shoot only)
• Wear something bright during gun season.
• Remain silent.

XOXO Besos,
Anna Castillo
Celebrity Makeup Artista
http://www.shopinkcosmetics.com/

America's Miss 2011 - Shaina Millan's Transformation to meet Justin Timberlake at Marine Corps Ball

Shaina Millan
Makeup by Celeb MUA Anna Castillo
using www.inkcosmetics.com 

I had the pleasure of transforming Miss Delaware 2011 Shaina Millan for her evening at the Marine Corps Ball where Justin Timberlake was in attendance.  All products used on Shaina is available NOW at www.WSalonVa.com !  Want to book an appointment with me?  Email anna@inkcosmetics.com for availability! 

Justin Timberlake at the Marine Corps Ball 2011

Click here to SEE VIDEO

Please stay tuned ecommerce site is under construction.  Check out my portfolio on ink...cosmetics site!

XOXO Besos,

Anna Castillo

Autumn Soul-mate by ink...cosmetics

SOUL-MATE LIP SHINE

Autumn is finally here!  Now it's time for our little favorite must have item!

Stop by the W Salon VA Halloween Costume Contest tomorrow Oct. 29.  See who will win $100 and be sure to grab a tube of our must-have Autumn Soul-mate Lip Shine by http://www.inkcosmetics.com/! 

Also, get a few FREE makeup tips by Celebrity Makeup Artist Anna Castillo!

Hope you love these lips as much as he did!  What are you waiting for?  GET INK...'d! 

XXO Besos! 

LOVE,
ink...cosmetics

INK... Cosmetics in the news. Gazzette.net interview with Carolyn Malachi.

One of our faces of ink...cosmetics, Grammy Nominated Recording Artist Carolyn Malachi explains why she wears Feather Couture Lashes by ink...cosmetics, llc.  So proud to have her on our team!  She is such a positive role model for all artists!

Article from Gazzette.net

XOXO Besos,

Anna Castillo

- Posted by www.inkcosmetics.com using BlogPress w/my iPad

Inside Look at Celeb MUA Anna Castillo and ink...cosmetics Launch Event

Photo: Anna Castillo with Designer Wellta

The support has been overwhelming!  Thank you Mundovision for capturing our journey from the beginning of our launch to the end.  We were happy you could be apart of this epic event! XOXO Besos! 

10 day countdown to INK... COSMETICS LAUNCH!

Photo by: ANNA CASTILLO

Makeup/Hair/Styling by: Anna Castillo - ink...cosmetics

CLICK HERE FOR OFFICIAL EVENT DETAILS

We are so pleased and excited about our official launch scheduled in 10 days (August 20th, 2011) at the L2 Lounge in Georgetown, DC.  I will be posting a blog each day with what is happening in the world of ink...cosmetics to give you an inside look at what it took to make the event epic and unforgettable.

What's happening now?

MILITARY TRAINING:

I am still in a military combat training course and between fighting simulated opposing forces and combating the insects and the heat, while continuing meetings via emails and phone to finalize all the necessary pieces for a seamless and successful launch event.

I have about another 2 hours before we gear up for a simulated Southwest Asian mission and pray we all come back with zero casualties! This is my last week here and I am ready to head home. We have a great team and I know we will do well! 

Photo by: Anna Castillo

"Just another day at the office"

(weapons issue)

Photo by: Anna Castillo

Anna all geared up for Simunitions Exercises
"AAAHH!"

LAUNCH PREP:

Everything seems to be in place for the ink...cosmetics launch! Thank GOD!  I am so pleased to be surrounded by such professional people!  As you see in the invite, this is a FREE event!  We have put together beauty necessities for our FREE I <3 ink...cosmetics swag bags.  Get there early!  Bags are available only the first 100 guests!  

We have brought in some of the best companies in the DC area together in order to showcase the faces of ink...!  The launch will be the official welcome of ink...cosmetics as a retailed product. 

First, I want to thank each one of the companies as a whole cultivated creative team for all the hard work they have done to assist in support of my vision.  THANK YOU! May you all continue to be blessed with your successes as well!

I will showcase each company on my blog as a tribute and credit to them for their time and efforts!

The music for the show is picked, the special performance by amazing Grammy Nominated Recording Artist Carolyn Malachi is highly anticipated, and everyone is finishing up their respective pieces of the puzzle.

Models are set and confirmed and I am so looking forward to enhancing their already beautiful faces!  I will showcase each of them as well in the next few weeks to come.  Thank you ladies for your continued support!

We will have models like Allyn Rose, Miss Maryland USA 2011, couture dresses designed by WELLTA, hair by the wonderful W SALON VA, accessories and shoes styled by Ayanna Scott of  http://www.scottnco.com/, production management by Triana Woodard and Vance Gamble of Purple District, event photography by Naiffer Photography, MC hosts Vannessa and Markette of DC on Heels, videography by Mundovision and continued contributing support by DC Life Magazine.

THE LOOKS:

I have received emails over the last month asking what do I have in store for our faces of ink...  Well, honestly, I have been combing over some ideas and don't want to spoil the fun by disclosing too much information.  I know I will feature some one of a kind Makeup Accessories by ink... and high pigmented trends at a minimum.

The purpose of this launch is to showcase just some of the capabilities of our skincare and cosmetics line, which has been formulated for multi-purpose results for both men and women.  We are also using this event to meet with other Fashion industry professionals in and around the DC, Maryland and Virginia area.

I hope to meet each of you there!  XXO Besos!

Anna Castillo

ink...cosmetics makeup application for Grammy Nominated Recording Artist CAROLYN MALACHI

Talent behind the images!  Photo by Leonard Poteat!

Check out the video for a behind the lens look!

Special thanks to Leonard Poteat for shooting and producing this behind the scenes look at the cultivated editorial shoot for the wonderful Grammy Nominated Recording Artist Carolyn Malachi.  We had the opportunity to shoot her sister Keira Malachi who was absolutely adorable as well!

The shoot was made possible because of stying by Ayanna Scott, hair by W Salon VA - Sue T. Lawhorn and Cindy Soung, Photography by Leonard Poteat, Barber YHYF, and makeup by ink...cosmetics, Anna Castillo. 

More information and final photos to come:
ink...cosmetics blog interview with Carolyn Malachi.
ink...cosmetics GET THE LOOK breakdown to include Carolyn Malachi's Couture Lashes by ink...cosmetics.

Hope you love it as much as we did!  May God continue to bless all of our creative minds, hands, and voices!  Great working with all of you!

XOXO Besos
Anna Castillo
Celebrity Makeup Artist
Creative Director for ink...cosmetics, LLC

GET THE LOOK: Jet Black Rose

Late SUMMER 2011, ink...cosmetics will launch their line of trendy, sweet, and sexy cosmetics in the DMV.  Our first "ink...spot" as if you didn't know, will be at the W SALON.  So excited!

Here is another fun look using ink...cosmetics eye liner as lip liner (color: jet black).  Yes it is an interchangeable product!  Love it!  I used ink...cosmetics eye shine in Rose on her eyes along with a few other fun products.  More on this look coming soon.  Hope you love it as much as we did!

XXO Besos,
A.C

GET THE LOOK: Star dust Blue sky

Photo: ink...cosmetics

Model: Olivia 



If starry blue skies with attitude really existed this is what it would look like!  To get Olivia's look check out the new products at ink...cosmetics coming to the W Salon later this summer!

GET THE LOOK:

1. Start with a clean, moisturized face.

2. Add primer all over.

3. Dab ink...cosmetics concealer duo under the eye and around the nose.

4. Add ink...cosmetics foundation stick down the nose, across the forehead, and on the sides of the cheek.

5. BLEND product with a foundation brush.

6. Using a wide shadow brush, add ink...cosmetics "Blue Skies" eye shadow on the outer corner of the eye.  Blending outward toward the end of your defined brow.  Apply this product in a v-shaped motion.  Creates a wing-like cat eye look.

7.  Add ink...cosmetics "Star Dust" from the inner corner of the eye towards the edge of your eye.  Blending here is important.  Make the two colors intertwine.

8.  Add ink...cosmetics "oil control powder" all over your face and neck.

9.  Add black lashes and adhere with black/dark adhesive.  Line the entire rim of your eye. Top with ink...cosmetics jet black mascara.

10.  Finish this look by applying ink...cosmetics lip color in "Attitude". 

 ink...cosmetics shadow in "Blue Skies"



  ink...cosmetics shadow in "Star Dust"




ink...cosmetics lip color in "Attitude"

Now, wear your best little black dress, strappy stillettos, and head out to your favorite hot spot.  Enjoy your "Starry Blue Skies"!  Hope you love it!

XXO

Besos!

A.C.

www.inkcosmetics.com

Are You Validated? Tribute To My Friends! Inspired by Oprah Winfrey's Last Show!

Photo provided by www.oprah.com

As one chapter in American Television History closes…my beginning manifests itself after watching Oprah’s last episode. Unfortunately, my job did not allow me to watch LIVE. Thank goodness for technology and the DVR. I watched Oprah from early on. I can’t recall the first episode I caught but remember coming home after school and turning her on to see what she had in store. Tonight I couldn’t help but hang on every word Ms. Winfrey blessed me with yet again. I learned over the years about gratitude, care, compassion, love, and her words “self-worth”! As she spoke, I couldn’t help but reflect on my life and what “platform” I have brought to those I came in contact with. For those who don’t know me well, I have been blessed and have no complaints. I don’t attend church anymore. Not for the reason of disbelief but for the reason of poor time management in this area. I pray more than you would ever know. I speak to our mighty God whenever I pass a holy monument, structure, place of worship or grave site. I say a prayer for all mankind and bless all I come in contact with.

As the show went on, I began to think about my “validation” and the platform I use to touch people. I am a firm believer that you are responsible for your actions and how you treat others. I have and will never take for granted the gift God has given me. Yes, I live two lives. I am an Airman in the United States Air Force. I signed up to protect and serve our country so we can all continue to live free. I came from a military background and have maintained that lifestyle regardless of my other life and passion as a Celebrity Makeup Artist and Owner of ink…cosmetics. The loss of my father made me who I am today! I am stronger, independent, unselfish, and I open my heart and home to everyone I meet. Yes, there have been numerous occasions where “some” have taken advantage of my actions. I have recently seen these individuals’ true intentions and colors but have chosen to bat my lashes and continue on. Never changing who I am inside or my genuine character! Perseverance is my best friend!

I have never needed the friend counters on Myspace, number of followers on Twitter, or liked page numbers on Facebook, to validate who I am, what my business is or will do for the men and women I encounter on a daily basis. With my cosmetics line launching soon, I began to envision my platform and validation. It is…my life! The way I live my life and interact with women and men who don’t believe they truly are as beautiful on the outside as they exude on the inside; where God has blessed me with the hands and talent to pull out “everyone’s” true beauty as a makeup artist. The lives I touch or come across because of a crime that was committed where I have to investigate and hope to gather all the evidence needed for prosecution as a criminal investigator in the AF. I don’t do it for trophies or “kudos”! I don’t do it for the money, “fame” or lack thereof! I do it for the honest and good in people! I do it for the sincere gratefulness from every client in my makeup chair that takes a double look at their reflection after I have completed their look! I do it for the mother of a deceased son who says thanks for caring about us after he’s gone and assisting in the justice he deserved! I thank everyone who has helped me become who I am today! Who has helped me along the way! Like my Mother, Grandmother, Godmother, Husband, Children, family and friends! I include Celebrities, businesses, and fans who believed in me, spread the word and who gave me a chance even though I am an “Airman” first and artist second. I thank those from MTV, VH1, Latina Magazine, the numerous Pageant Queens, Wardrobe and Hair Stylists, Media contributors, Photographers, DC Life Magazine, DC on Heels, local and known designers like my dear friend and biggest believer Indashio, and most recently my new partners at W Salon, VA! Of course could not have the wonderful life I do now without the spirit of my father and the many blessings of God!

                                             In photo Indashio and Anna Castillo

I ask that you all reflect and count your blessings, never take anything for granted, and be honest, true and continuously grateful! Continue the 25 year trend from our dear television inspiration Oprah Winfrey and live your best life always! THANK YOU OPRAH for bringing each and every “aha” moment to me and the millions of people across the world!

In photo Anna Castillo and Souny West

XXO Besos!  Remember to keep cultivating your creativity! <3 Anna Castillo