I’m Treating Myself To The Ultimate Valentine’s Day Date Night

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I used to be one of those people who would wince at the thought of being single for Valentine’s Day. However, after years of doing exactly that, I now see Feb. 14 as an opportunity to shower myself with love, as opposed to wallowing in disappointment that I’m not getting it from someone else. Now don’t get me wrong, I love to be wined and dined for the holiday and doing what lovers do. But, unless a significant other drop magically out of the sky, I’ll be sailing through this Valentine’s Day alone. And I’m not bummed about it.

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Considering the year we’ve all had, I’ve made the conscious decision to be my romantic partner this year. I’ve scheduled a spa day for myself, complete with a fresh Pedi, my favorite facial, and deep tissue massage. I’m taking myself to one of my favorite restaurants (socially distanced and outdoors, of course), have booked myself a hotel room for the night, and have arranged a masterfully curated self-care kit that I’ll be indulging in throughout the evening.

Now, to some that may seem extra, but to me, there’s no such thing as extra when it comes to self-love. And, to be frank, I deserve it. That’s why I spent quite a bit of time nailing down the details of my Valentine’s Day self-care kit this year. It includes carefully selected products that I can indulge in for my hotel stay and beyond. Each item is practical yet luxurious and reminds me that, with or without a companion, I deserve all the love and all the gifts. Check out what made the cut, ahead.

Buttah Skin Charcoal Detox Mask, $24

There will never come a day when I’m not completely obsessed with a great detoxifying mask. This one, with charcoal, argan oil, and shea butter is one of my favorites. At the beginning of the evening, I’ll let this sit on my skin for 10 minutes and enjoy a glowing complexion for the rest of the night.

Forvr Mood Sweet Spot Candle, $35

Is it really a romantic night in without a candle burning? My pick this year is an aromatic blend of orange, jasmine, and musk, that’s equal parts sweet and masculine.

Before BedHeadz Stardust Pretty in Pink, $29.99

Usually, when it comes to the silk scarves that protect my hair at night, I don’t get too picky with my choices. However, this isn’t any ordinary night. I’ll be protecting these edges with this decadent, 100%-silk scarf. 2021 is all about Living, Loving, and Flourishing!

Margot Elena This Moment Bubble Bath, $56

This year, I’ve resolved to bask more in the moment and appreciate the little things. This bubble bath is a reminder of that promise to myself. With the tranquil aroma of lily and sun blossoms, my hour-long bath session is guaranteed to leave me feeling relaxed and appreciative.

McBride Sisters Be Mine Pair, $59

One of my most recent obsessions has been the McBride Sisters wine. The Black-owned, sister-led company out of Monterey, California, makes some of the most incredible wine I’ve ever tasted. Luckily, they’ve put two of my favorite offerings, the rosé and merlot, together in a box set that I’ll surely be indulging in this year.

Savage Fenty Puff Daisy Xtra VIP Box, $59.95

Savage Fenty Savage Not Sorry Lace Bodysuit, NEW VIP OFFER – 50% Off $29.98

I firmly believe that lingerie isn’t about another person. It should be about making the wearer feel sexy.

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Valentine might be different this year because of Covid-19, but that doesn’t mean we have to stop loving ourselves and doing things that make us feel sexy. All because we are quarantine ( well we all should be – THAT MEANS YOU TOO CELEBRITIES) doesn’t mean enjoying our life has to stop. It just means to get more creative and smart with it.

How are you spending your Valentine’s Day?

Beauty Q and A: What Is Microshading?

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We’ve heard of microblading, micro feathering, but recently another eyebrow tattoo option has made its way onto our radar and that’s microshading. When it comes to permanent makeup, doing your research before getting anything done is non-negotiable. So, if you’re curious whether microshading is for you, keep reading. We tapped professional brow expert Joey Healy to learn more about this eyebrow procedure and how it differs from microblading. 

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What Is Microshading? 

According to Healy, microshading is often referred to as ombré or powder brows and looks like a more fuller-looking brow. It utilizes a fine tattoo pen to create tiny dots as opposed to microblading, which creates short strokes. “ With microshading, you can change the density pattern depending on how close or far away those dots are,” says Healy. “ The closer together the dots are, the darker the result is. It’s very much like an impressionist painting, which is the best way to think of it.” 

Who’s a Good Candidate for Microshading?

“ Microshading is thought to be better for those with sensitive or oily skin,” says Healy. That’s because the pigment is applied as individual dots as opposed to strokes which is a bit more gentle and distributes the pigment in a concentrated area making it last a little bit longer. Healy also explains that if you like fuller-looking brows, microshading might be worth considering. “ The thing about microshading is that it’s a little bit darker,” he says. “ It’s a little bit more of that Instagram kind of brow.”

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How Long Does Microshading Last?

Touch-ups are generally recommended every eight to 12 months. Healy explains that it lasts longer than microblading with fewer touch-ups, but everyone is different, so it’s important to take your skin type and needs into consideration and consult with your brow technician about aftercare. 

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Can You Create a Microshaded-Like Look at Home?

If you like the idea of microshading but are nervous about the commitment, rest assured you can recreate the look using powder brow products at home. 

“ If you want to do microshading, use a brow powder and concentrate it on the areas you want it the most,” says Healy. If you need a product recommendation, the Joey Healy Luxe Brow Powder and the Duo Brow Brush make it easy to achieve soft and natural-looking brows. For a drugstore pick, we like the Maybelline New York Tattoo Brow 36HR Pigment Pencil, which comes in an easy-to-use-pencil. 

Once you have your product of choice, it’s time to create your shadow. “ I always recommend doing very little in the front so the brow isn’t boxed in,” says Healy. “ Then, I suggest doing a little bit more towards the arch and the tail to give a little bit more definition and that kind of ombre effect.”

L’Oreal Paris

Brow Stylist Micro Ink Pen by Brow Stylist Up to 48HR Wear 

  • Instant longwear Brow Tint, Hair-like effect, Up to 48HR wear
  • Get precise, defined, natural looking brows
  • Precise comb tip for smooth application
  • Waterproof, No color-fade, Smudge resistant, No Transfer, Dermatologist tested for safety
  • 96 percent precisely tints eyebrows – Results from a consumer test
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The Best LGBTQ+ Beauty Influencers to Follow on TikTok, Instagram and Youtube

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When we’re scrolling through our fave beauty accounts on social media, we’re often so focused on the stunning makeup looks that we forget about the actual artists creating them and what they mean to their followers and subscribers. This can be especially true for LGBTQ+ beauty influencers on TikTok, Instagram, and Youtube, who inspire and uplift so many by sharing their personal stories and, of course, through their work. Below, meet 9+ of our favorite LGBTQ+ content creators you’re going to want to follow, ASAP. 

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Hyram 

For unsolicited (yet totally welcome) skin-care advice, subscribe to Hyram’s TikTok account like, now. He’s always sharing what products to buy (he’s a huge CeraVe fan!) and has dedicated his account to helping followers get their skin-care routines in check. If you’re lucky, he may even duet your skin-care routine.

Bretman Rock 

For a mix of skin, makeup, lifestyle and getting ready content, follow Bretman Rock on Instagram and Youtube. He’s an extremely talented makeup artist, has a great sense of humor and fabulous hair.

Bretman has 12 million followers on Instagram but he still doesn’t get the recognition he deserves on a worldwide scale. I’ve followed him from the beginning and he’s one of the few influencers whose personality hasn’t changed with fame. He’s humble, hilarious, super proud of his Filipino heritage, and is unproblematic. Honestly, he’s been doing this for years and has managed to stay out of the drama. He is who he is, which is why his followers love him.

GlamazonTay

Glamazontay’s YouTube channel is a beauty, fashion and lifestyle destination. She does everything from hair tutorials to outfit hauls and has enough GRWMs to help you slay for months on end. Watching her videos is basically like hanging out with one of your friends.

James Charles

Oh, James Charles. He’s known for his whimsical glam makeup tutorials, iconic YouTuber collabs and huge community of sisters. Plus, he’s wildly entertaining. Definitely worth a follow, but don’t blame us if you get a little bit addicted.

Patrick Starr

If you’re not already following Patrick Starr, who’s an amazing content creator and founder of the new beauty brand One Size, now is definitely the time to subscribe. Not only does he have a bright and bubbly personality, he also produces movie-quality videos that are mesmerizing to watch. He’s also known for creating over-the-top drag makeup.

With over 4.6 million followers on Instagram, Starr is undoubtedly a, well, star. He’s all about the long lashes, head wraps, wigs, and long gowns, and his makeup tutorial videos are full of uplifting vibes and humor. Starr oozes confidence and self-love—it’s part of what makes him so inspirational. He’s teamed up with big-name beauty brands like MAC and Benefit Cosmetics, and he’s worked with celebrities such as Kim Kardashian and Jessica Alba to create fun beauty content. Trust us, you want to give him a follow.

Gigi Gorgeous

An OG YouTuber, Gigi has been delivering makeup videos and challenges for years. She’s documented everything from her favorite beauty products to her transition with the support of her followers all the way.

Julie Vu

Not only is Julie Vu talented at slaying a smoky eye, she also gets real on her channel about everything she’s going through. As a trans woman, Julie has shared her transition from the beginning and continues to inspire people with her honesty. Go for the beauty tutorials (her perfect wand curls tutorial comes to mind) and stay for the funny challenges and informative videos about transitioning.

Jazmina Daniel

The queen of lip art, you’ve likely seen her lip looks floating around your Instagram feed. She’s recreated everything from iconic works of art to album cover artwork. She’s also incredibly fashionable.

 Mei Pang

Pang came on my radar a few months ago when one of her videos popped up on my Twitter feed. From the moment the video started, I was in awe. Her looks seem intricate but they’re actually super easy to emulate, kind of like a lazy way to fake a flawless look. Plus, her down-to-earth attitude is something that many can vibe with.

Pang isn’t the girl-next-door—she’s your badass friend who gives it to you straight. She constantly features her head-to-toe tattoos on her Instagram and serves fierce makeup looks, too. They’re not your typical beauty looks; she often does full-face makeup with bold colors and shapes that are embellished with pearls, rhinestones, and more. On her feed, Pang is also incredibly open about her sobriety and what that journey has looked like for her.

Deon

The blend honey, the blend! I thought my blending game was on point, but Deon makes me look like an amateur. He only has 18,000 followers and I don’t understand why he doesn’t have more. Colorful eyeshadows can be scary to use but I love that Deon uses them at every chance he gets. He shows that with practice, bright colors can be tamed.

Clark describes his aesthetic as “special occasion,” and his looks are the intersection of glam and fierce. He says that wearing makeup gives him a confidence boost and makes him feel snatched, but what he loves most are the comments he gets from his followers saying that he’s inspired them. 

Nikkie de Jagger

f you love makeup tutorials, odds are de Jagger has popped up as a suggested video or account on your feed. With over 15 million followers, she’s earned the title of a beauty mogul and expert, and her makeup looks prove it. They’re colorful, bright, and bold, and de Jagger always breaks them down in easy-to-follow steps. In January, she posted a now-viral video in which she came out as transgender after someone threatened to out her. Since that moment, she’s been more open about her journey as a trans woman and how makeup plays into it.

Myla

If you’re looking for beauty influencers who post mood-boosting looks, search no further. Myla’s fun makeup looks are straight out of an Instagram filter, featuring everything from smiley faces to daises to butterfly wings. For her, makeup is about creativity, playfulness, and self-expression, just as it should be.

Did I miss any of your favorite LGBTQ+ influencers? Of course, there are thousands of talented LGBTQ+ influencers out there, but check this talented bunch out when you’re looking for someone new. And remember, we choose who we follow, even if the talent is there, let’s try not to make problematic, negative people famous.

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Photo: @MeiPang

PRETTY LINGERIE with FASHION NOVA

Published on by Lee3 Comments

Gift yourself with a sexy little something courtesy of our lingerie roundup from Fashion Nova. Valentine’s Day aside, updating your intimates is pretty much the easiest way to brighten your mood (even if you’re wearing them for yourself).

From pastel lace undies to alluring strappy bras, enjoy our spicy selection of lingerie sets, bodysuits, and more. We shopped the options out from least expensive but still splurge-worthy so you can find the right piece no matter your budget. Shop BeautyLeeBar 2021 picks for the chicest lingerie below.

Talk Sweet To Me Flutter Lace 2 Piece Set – Black

$24.99 USD

  • Available In Black.
  • 2 Piece Lace Set
  • Style With Thigh Highs For The Perfect Look!
  • Triangle Bralette
  • Adjustable Straps
  • Ruffle Trim
  • Thong Bottom
  • Back Keyhole
  • Side Ruffles

Seriously In Love Lace Garter 3 Piece Set – Hunter

$39.99 USD

  • Available In Black And Hunter.
  • 3 Piece Garter Set
  • Style With Thigh Highs For The Perfect Look!
  • Underwire Bra
  • Garter Belt
  • Thong Bottom

I’ve Been Waiting Teddy – Black

$29.99 USD

  • Available in Black and Nude
  • Sheer Detail
  • Lace Detail
  • Lingerie Teddy
  • Adjustable Straps
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Call Me Mistress Lace 3 Piece Garter Set – Black/Black

$29.99 USD

  • Available In Black/Black.
  • 3 Piece Lace Garter Set
  • Style With Thigh Highs For The Perfect Look!
  • High Neck Bra
  • Underwire
  • Front Cutout
  • Lace Garter Belt
  • Matching Thong

Make It Or Break It Set – Mauve

$19.99 USD

  • Available In Black, Ivory, Mauve, And Sage
  • 2 Piece Lingerie Set
  • Lace Bra
  • Cap Sleeve

After Party Affair Lace Chemise Set – Black

$29.99 USD

  • Available In Black And Wine.
  • Satin And Lace Chemise
  • Style With Thigh Highs For The Perfect Look!
  • Underwire
  • Contrast Lace
  • Adjustable Straps
  • Disclaimer: Plus Only- Runs Small, Shop One Size Up
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Lace Up Lover Strappy 3 Piece Set – Black

$39.99 USD

  • Available In Black.
  • 3 Piece Faux Leather Garter Set
  • Style With Thigh Highs For The Perfect Look!
  • Underwire Slight Push-Up Bra
  • Halter Tie
  • Lace Up Detail
  • Matching Garter
  • Bikini Bottom
  • Back Lace Up Cutout

Somebody To Love Lace Teddy – Red

$24.99 USD

  • Available In Black, White, and Red
  • Lace and Mesh Teddy
  • Underwire 
  • Snap Bottom
  • Adjustable Straps

Thinking Of Your Touch Lace 3 Piece Set – Black

$39.99 USD

  • Available In Purple and Black
  • 3 Piece Lingerie Set
  • Lace
  • Underwire Bra
  • Adjustable Straps
  • Thong Panty
  • Garter Belt
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Chains And Whips Lace Garter 3 Piece Set – Pink

$39.99 USD

  • Available In Pink.
  • 3 Piece Set
  • Lace And Chain Garter Belt Set
  • Style With Thigh Highs For The Perfect Look!
  • Lace Underwire Bra
  • Adjustable Chain Trim Straps
  • Garter Belt
  • Matching thong

Body Language 3 Piece Garter Set – Ivory

$44.99 USD

  • Available In Black, Hot Pink, Ivory And Red
  • 3 Piece Garter Set
  • Bow Detail
  • Lace
  • Thong

In The Mood Lace 2 Piece Set – Rose

$22.99 USD

  • Available In Black, Rose, And White.
  • 2 Piece Lace Set
  • Style With Thigh Highs For The Perfect Look!
  • Balconette Bra Cup
  • Underwire
  • Adjustable straps
  • Matching Thong

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All the pieces that are shown here from Fashion Nova, we bought. Right now Fashion Nova is having a sale so take advantage while you can. Use code: Kansas50 or Tampa50 to get more discount on your purchase.

So, are you TEAM KANSAS or TEAM TAMPA? Comment below!

Photo: @dananozime