Got our makeup done

...at the Nordstrom Fall Cosmetic Trend Show.



Here's Nordstrom's description of the event with slightly more accurate notes in parentheses:

Join us for an industry style (if by industry, we mean tacky hard sell) cosmetic trend show complete with cosmetic (drag queen) runway show featuring your favorite cosmetic lines. Listen (to obnoxiously loud DJ-spun music at 8AM) while industry insiders and experts showcase the latest tips, tricks, and trends for Fall/Winter 2007 (by shouting "Is everyone ready FOR THIS??!" and "ARE WE ALL AWAKE?!" or "PROMISE TO BUY THIS!!" repeatedly through the microphone). After the show book an appointment with one of our talented makeup artist (who will rush through the services, and quite forcefully suggest some unnecessary purchases) and get your own customized look. Tickets are only $15 and are re-deemable in product...plus receive a complimentary gift (which will be a silver train case you won't ever use) for attending the show while supplies last. Cosmetic lines that are participating in this event include, MAC, Estee Lauder, Dr. Perricone, Nars, Smash Box, Shu Uemura, Bobbi Brown, YSL, Bliss, Mario Badescu, Clinique, Laura Mercier, Trish McEvoy, Chanel, Lancome, Dior, Guerlain and many others. Show starts at 8:30 am and doors open at 8:00 am for light refreshment service (dried bagel and muffins).

Overall, I have no complains about my makeup artist as she was sweet and knowledgeable. Shawna however hated her makeup and could not tell her makeup artist for fear of seeming offensive. So we spent the next 2 minutes in the bathroom cleaning up too-blue eye makeup along with women who suffered the same fate. It was funny listening to Asian ladies in their 50's say, "Aiyoh. Look like a Chinese Opera singer. Take picture! Take picture!" And to think teens have a bad rep when it comes to taking pictures in the bathroom.

We had fun after that if it weren't for the unbearable crowd and sales people forcing promos down our throats. "Spend more than $75 and get this, this and this!" I love Nordstrom for their flexible return policy (something I learned in college!) but do not anticipating shopping there much as I feel a better vibe when it comes to service and style at Neiman's, Saks and Bloomingdale's.

The day started at 8AM. I arrived alone waiting for Shawna at the 2nd row eating my dried bagel and cream cheese. In all honesty, I kind of enjoyed it


Before getting our makeup done, Shawna tried on these super cute shoes that are probably causing her much dilemma now. Wait till they go on sale girl! Check out the tiny gold skulls


And I came home with the following being practical and all: schwag from the show, a Smashbox eyeliner brush, Victor & Rolf Flowerbomb themed taffy (and Japanese fan!), and a pair of much-needed grey flats


The makeup was matte and sheer with minimal mascara just the way I like it. I got my hair tousled at the Frederick Fekkai counter, and it didn't last but I loved the straight-from-the-beach-look while it did


Liking how I was all made up (1st time!) the bf suggested that we take a walk to the Marina. And so with the Blue Angels soaring loudly in the sky, we did


A16


Sardines with Meyer lemon, breadcrumbs and parsley


Sitting by the Chefs


Funghi pizza with egg on top


Squid ink tonnarelli with white shrimp and zucchini


I had always wanted to try this restaurant so it was nice that the bf didn't suggest his usual McD's or In & Out. The overall experience was pleasant. With such simple Italian fare, I definitely think the prices should've been more modest. But I suppose that's the price you pay living in SF