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/

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

BLUE JUNGLE Photo shoot using ink...cosmetics

INK...COSMETICS LAUNCH COMING SUMMER 2011

Check out entire concept at ink...cosmetics

Cultivated photo shoot:  TEAM

Photographer:

Leonard Poteat 

http://www.leonardpoteat.com/

Celebrity Makeup Artist: 

Anna Castillo

Founder/Creative Director 

http://www.inkcosmetics.com/

Hair Master Stylist:

Sue Tang Lawhorn - W Salon VA

Hair Stylist: 

Leanna Kyle - W Salon VA

Wardrobe Stylist:

Ayanna Scott

Wadrobe Stylist:

Triana Woodard

Wardrobe Stylist:

Vance Gamble

Model:

Mejer Yang

Model:

Marie Zoumanigui

 Model:

Yashika Munoz

http://www.mundovisiononline.com/

Wardrobe Contributor:

La Petite Marmoset Vintage

Model:  Yashika

Model: Marie

 Model: Mejer

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

Don't waste your makeup look! ink...cosmetics gets complimented!

So much has gone on in the last few weeks and months I don't know if I am coming or going!  Loving all the business and all the rave about ink...cosmetics and the W Salon VA fashion events!  I must say although I did Michelle's makeup look, I didn't do this event myself.  I had the hair help our partners at the W Salon VA and their lovely stylist Megan Mosig who assisted with makeup as well.  Basically, after a long week I had time to sit down and check all my network emails.  I came across an email from Michelle who was a model for one of the last events over Mother's Day weekend.  Check out the email below and the beautiful images she took after the event.  Super cute!  Loved it!

"Anna,

It was a pleasure meeting you and your talented team of make-up artist last night at the Aidah Collection Runway show. Thank you for making me look and feel beautiful!

I LOVE the way INK looked on my face. Congratulations on your upcoming launch for your new make-up line!

It just didn't seem right to let fabulous make-up go to waste so I took a pic of it when I got home from the show! lol.  See attached.

Enjoy your Mother's Day weekend!

--
Live the Magnificence of You,
Michelle"

Check out the images she sent with this email.  LOVE that she loved the makeup so much she went home and did a shoot with it!  Thank you Michelle!  Hope you will visit me again a the W Salon VA!  XXO Besos!  Anna Castillo - Celebrity Makeup Artist - http://www.inkcosmetics.com/

In the Georgetowner: ink...cosmetics & W Salon Key Makeup/Hair for Aidah Collection Show May 7, 2011

As DC's favorite Angie Goff graces yet another wonderful cover this month.  The W Salon and ink...cosmetics are gearing up for their next fashion event on May 7, 2011 to support Girls Inc. and Aidah Collection which will be hosted by Paul Wharton.  A portion of Aidah's Collection 3rd Anniversary Runway Show & Benefit proceeds will be donated to Girls Inc of the Washington DC Metro Area (http://www.girlsincdc.org/) a nonprofit organization that inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold through research-based informal education programs that address education, pregnancy and drug abuse prevention, media & economic literacy, health, violence prevention.

This is just one of the ways W and ink... are giving back to the community. 

Stay tuned for more "Wink... Events"™ as ink...cosmetics is scheduled to launch Summer/Fall 2011 in DC!   

XXO Besos!
http://www.inkcosmetics.com/

Weekend Look: Spring Leopard Dress!

Here is what I am living in this weekend!  Still a little chilly and knee highs were a must!  Love this look!  Sexy, comfy, cozy leopard spring ensemble!

Sexy either way!

Look out Fashionistas.... FashionMistas are all over the streets of NY sporting their version of the Scarf Trend. Who said this trend is only for the girls?

Olive Scarfs are popping up in stores all around the U.S. I found mine on sale for $10.19 at Overstock.com

Check out Kourtney Kardashian in this Paula Bianco Wrap Scarf available at jessieboutique.com for $83. Cozy, fresh and ultra sweet!

What's your favorite scarf for Fall 2010? Send me your favorite photo for a chance to be featured on inkcosmetics.blogspot.com. Best scarf will be chosen by 30 Nov 10.

Win FREE Lipgloss & Shadow from ink...cosmetics NYFW 2011!

Help us define fashion week in one word. Best definition will be featured on our blog and you receive $50.00 of FREE ink...cosmetics products! Winner will be announced on the last day of Fashion Week Sept 16, 2010.
Send your submissions to aycastillo15@aol.com Subject: NYFW 2011 and include your full name, email, city and state. Become a fan of ink...! Add yourself to our Facebook- www.facebook.com/inkcosmetics and Twitter- www.twitter.com/inkbeautique!

Good luck everyone!

NYFW Countdown! Click here for the schedule!

DO YOU HAVE YOUR TICKETS YET?

Heels and a gun? Why not?

Who says you can't enforce the law in heels?

For the love of affordable! If you haven't checked out Payless Shoes this year you are missing out! When did they get so fashion forward? Christian Siriano is taking over! His new "Storm boot" is a shiny, textured croco-print rubber, with an adjustable shaft buckle. It's soft cotton lining, a padded EVA insole will make your feet feel like it's on a bed of clouds. All for just $49.99.

Don't forget BOGO too. Buy this boot... at $54.99 and get Christian's half off!


(Images from www.payless.com)

Bought this boot today and it's AMAZINGLY comfortable. Isabel Toledo's take on a sporty yet super chic and futuristic boot is so charming and unexpected.

Who says I can't wear heels and still carry a gun. :-) XXO Besos! ~ Anna C.

Affordable Must Haves

GOT A HOT DATE?

Pair these Blue distressed denim stretch skinny leg jeans with purple stitch detailing by Marc Jacobs , a classic black pump or boots and this double layered white Helmut Lang tank top with a black blazer. It's a classic and sexy way to a perfect first impression!

Original Price: $188 DISCOUNT (50%) PRICE: $94
Skinny Jean by Marc Jacobs
http://www.theoutnet.com/product/28877



Top by Helmut Lang
Original Price $140 Now $42 70% off
Available at http://www.theoutnet.com/product/33030

MAKEUP is soft with a pale PINK lip and for a more defined eye line with Jet BLACK liner!

Know Your Own Shape. Part 2

Busty and Curvy?
Never sacrifice your waist line. When wearing a suit try and where a belt to create an hour glass from head-to-toe.

Beyonce loves to take that "if you've got 'em flaunt 'em" approach! Just make sure they are always supported!

Know Your Own Shape.

Curvy?

Curvy Petite: Wear
High or empire waist
Fitted Jeans
Flare Hem
V-neck Blouse Show Your Shape

What doesn't work cropped or overly detailed jeans with a tight, crewneck T.

Petite?

Slender/Petite: Wear
Dresses - look for a mermaid shape dress that draws the eye upward.
If you are going for bold dress with patterns keep the accessories to a minimum.