A REVOLUTIONARY GEM : BEIRUT'S GRAND THEATRE

Forgot what it feels to write a blog post, and honestly I've been kind of hesitant about sharing this since last October. But felt the need to show you guys what I would call 'discovery' of the Grand Theatre of Beirut.

Ever since the revolution started in Lebanon, I've been attending the protests happening in Downtown with my friends, and of course, I was super excited to climb the famous EGG building, which was never accessible to the public. The 'EGG' used to be a cinema. Once there, I heard some people talk about the presence of a theater, that was also now accessible during the revolution.

That theater, known as the 'Grand Theatre Des Milles Et Une Nuits' is located in Riad El Solh, Downtown Beirut. Built in the late 20's early 30's, it was the second theater to be built in the country after the Ottomans left in 1918. It only welcomed bourgeois people. The building was huge, consisting of the theater and hotel. Oum Koulthoum, Abd El Wahab, Comedie Francaise and Romanian Ballet dancers performed there among many other well known artists back in that era. Back then, it was the center of Arab theater, and was known as one of the biggest and fanciest places in Beirut. With the years passing by, it became worthless when it started to crumble, so then it was turned into a cinema that anyone was allowed into, which made it lose its value.

This was followed by the start of the Lebanese Civil War in 1975, where snipers were roaming around the infamous 'Green Line', which was what separated the Christian East Beirut & Muslim West Beirut when Beirut was divided. Life was paralyzed during that time, and it was risky to go around that area. However, the theater had been abandoned since the end of the civil war. Ever since, only SOLIDERE has access to it, having it fenced since the early 90's, stating the intention of reviving the theater, its ballroom and hotel. In the hopes of keeping the classical vintage appeal in the middle of the new modern Beirut. These plans were delayed, and the only change made was the restoration of the main entrance.

So when the revolution started, the fences were no longer guarded, and protestors were able to get in. TBH, for me this was a discovery because I had no idea that it existed in the first place, and I'm pretty sure a lot of you guys didn't either. Once I got in, I couldn't not take pictures of every corner I could access. Unfortunately the building is in terrible condition, constantly deteriorating, and can entirely fall off anytime now.

Found those documentary links about it by Omar Naim published in an article about the Grand Theater on BlogBaladi, so feel free to watch to find out more in details:

Grand Theater : A Tale of Beirut (1 of 3)
Grand Theater : A Tale of Beirut (2 of 3)
Grand Theater : A Tale of Beirut (3 of 3)

Also, sorry for the spam of pictures.

                 And major thanks for Nereid for the cool shots, Bassem and Mohammad for helping us climb our way to the theater, since that the many door entrances to the theater are locked.

Thanks for reading! Xo

TbhJo

Makeup Application : Don't skip these steps!

To Be Honest, 

When it comes to applying makeup, we all have different routinised steps that we go through; but there are some that we skip, that are super helpful and NOT to be missed. 
So just in case you're not aware of them, their use might maintain your makeup, make it look naturally better and less cakey, while keeping your skin look healthier.

STEP 1: Face Cleaning

            Make sure to wash your face with an appropriate cleanser, depending on your skin type (your dermatologist can help you choose if you're not sure), in order to purify your pores. 

~ Sometimes a moisturizer might be needed for your skin type, but again, make sure your dermatologist recommends it, to avoid weakening and tiring your skin with excessive chemicals. 

~ Moreover, using heavy chemicals on your face can dry-out your skin. After all, remember: your face is like a white clean canvas, and nothing can stay or reach it's full potential when placed on a dirty canvas. And NO, fresh cold water on it's own won't change anything, and isn't enough.

STEP 2: Apply A Primer

              A face primer makes your skin smoother, mattifies, and adds radiance to it, also keeps your foundation in place. 
It is actually the secret weapon of all makeup artists worldwide for long-lasting looks.
If you wanna skip this step, it's fine, but make sure you replace the primer with a hydrating/moisturising cream.

-You can also apply a lash primer, before putting on your mascara. It may seem like an unnecessary step, but by applying it, you'll get longer and stronger lashes, that won't stick nor smudge, plus it'll nourishe them.

-Eye primer is usually needed when wanting to apply eye shadow to last longer without smudging throughout the day. I rarely apply eye primer, cause by prepping my face with the foundation and concealer,   it is said to be already covered pretty enough.

-As for the lips, you can use a lip primer/lip balm/lip scrub as well. Foundation can be used as a primer, to make sure the color of your lipstick doesn't fade.

STEP 3: Foundation Application

              When it comes to applying foundation, make sure you don't skip these steps, they are usually common mistakes:

 -Make sure you choose the best match to your skin not only in shade, but also color.

 -Test it before buying it to see how your skin absorbs the product. You don't wanna get it if it's not effective or doesn't have the coverage you're after.

 -Don't apply concealer before applying your foundation, cause it can make you use more foundation than you would otherwise need.

 -DO NOT APPLY IT WITH YOUR FINGERS.LIKE EVER. Use a foundation brush or a makeup sponge/beauty blender. 

 -Do not over-apply it, your skin still needs to breath a little beneath the makeup you're putting on; cause the less foundation you apply, the more natural you'll look. If you're looking for full coverage, make sure the foundation you pick provides it by only one layer, to prevent applying lots of layers, which will thicken your makeup.

 -Set your makeup with a setting spray before applying your foundation, and when you're done applying everything. It will help fix and maintain your makeup.

And if it is not necessary to have foundation on, skip it. This will prevent your skin from ageing and looking tired. 
Don't forget that by applying something on your whole face for an entire day, clogs your pores and produces more skin problems. 
In that case, for simple and everyday looks, go for BB cream -especially the ones that have sun protection- that will unify the tone of your face.

STEP 4: Perfect Glow

           After choosing the highlighter of your choice, apply it on the top of your cheekbones, on your brow bone, and dab a bit on the tip of your nose. A layer is enough, or you can go for multiple layers for intense highlight. 

-For some extra "pop", add a touch of highlighter to the inner and outer corner of your eyes - this can also be done using light shimmery eyeshadow.

-Add a dab also just above your upper lip. This area is called the cupid's bow, and by highlighting it, you'll draw more attention to your lips. You can also highlight the center of your chin.

-Brush some down the center of your forehead to accentuate it.
- don't apply too much on the T zone if you have oily skin -

Contouring is optional. You can go for powder or cream or even both. The steps depend on the shape of your face.
As for the brows, my go-to product is the gel + the brow pen and brush.

Applying lip liner is mandatory, it makes your lips look full. Make sure to draw your lips exactly on the vermilion border (outer line of the lips). Followed by your favorite lipstick and blush; then you're ready to go. 

Make sure to get brushes of good quality, for better results, and remember to tap the brush to remove any excess before application : you don't want to look red. 

And don't forget : blending is the secret of makeup looks, so make sure you blend well the products you apply.

Hope these tips helped you! For further questions or tips feel free to leave comments over here or on my social media.

Thanks for reading!Xo

TbhJo 

              

             

             

      

Products I'm currently lovin'

I've been using many products to make sure my skin is protected and hydrated at all times.

And TBH, here are the products that I'm currently using and lovin'

Honey Bronze: Shimmering Dry Oil

That perfect skin glow is a must. Can you relate?

Instead of highlighting your shoulders and collar bones, this product will naturally give these areas the glow & sun-kissed effect you're looking for.

PLUS, it actually smells really good, is super practical and hydrating. It's dry and non-greasy so it doesn't smudge your outfits nor stain them. 

Available at any 'The Body Shop' branch.

Moisturizing Body Lotion

I usually use it after shower. Feels fresh with it's non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula.

It makes my skin smell really good while kept hydrated.

Available in other scents and fragrances at any Sephora branch.

Bio-Oil & The Contouring Concentrate Shaping & Firming Body Oil by Caudalie 

Very effective for cellulites and stretch-marks  These oils firm and soothe the skin, only when applied regularly. Only body oils that actually worked for me.

Their formula is fast-absorbing and not too greasy.

Both available on Feel22 with a discount using my code "TbhJoFeel22" on checkout, AND free delivery across Lebanon.

Hydra-Total 5 by L'Oreal Paris

A hydrating makeup primer that I love. This gel

moisturizes and revitalizes my skin well before my makeup application.

Available for normal to combination skin & for sensitive skin HERE: Feel22 with a discount using my code "TbhJoFeel22" on checkout, AND free delivery across Lebanon.

Shea nourishing body butter

I apply it usually after my shower when my body/skin feels dry. Shea benefits are known when it comes to skincare.

This body butter smells incredibly good, intensely moisturizes and nourishes the skin. This product also happens to be fast-absorbing, so it doesn't damage the clothing.

Available at any 'The Body Shop' branch.

ALSO been loving this product by Origins, a brand I recently tried. No product ever left my skin with THIS baby-feel.
Available at Sephora.

So Long Damage Break Fix by Matrix

A leave-in elixir that instantly resurfaces brittles, minimizes hair-frizz and recharges healthy shine, without leaving your hair sticky. I apply it after shower on wet hair.

Micellar cleansing water in oil by Garnier

Micellar water with oil that removes makeup and dirt away from the skin, cleanses and soothes the skin, including lips. It also hydrates and refreshes with no need of rinsing after usage. I really like this one because it's waterproof & it isn't greasy once applied. 
This product is also suitable for all skin types even sensitive ones.

Available HERE: Feel22 with a discount using my code "TbhJoFeel22" on checkout, AND free delivery across Lebanon.



Micellar cleansing water by Bioderma

TBH, nothing removes my mascara so effortlessly, without too much swiping and eye-irritation. For my whole life, I'd wake up in the morning with black residue from my mascara - but this stopped happening while using Bioderma.
Suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive ones.

Available HERE: Feel22 with a discount using my code "TbhJoFeel22" on checkout, AND free delivery across Lebanon.

Hydrating sunscreen lotion by Eau Thermale Avene

Who said sunscreen is only for summer use? 
Smooth, creamy sunscreen that doesn't leave your face too white after application. Protects your skin against the sun, while nourishing and keeping it hydrated. I leave it in my bag for daily application.

Available HERE: Feel22 with a discount using my code "TbhJoFeel22" on checkout, AND free delivery across Lebanon.

Fragrance mist by Victoria's Secret

Body mist in 'Love Spell' that I always restock. Sprayed on the body after shower mostly, and during the day to refreshen up.

Clay Masks by L'Oreal Paris & Sephora

I use them 2-3 times a week. These clay masks help detoxify and illuminate the skin by cleaning out pores and removing impurities, which allow the better 'breathing' of the skin. Immediately after use, skin looks brighter with a healthy glow.

All L'Oreal Paris clay masks and face wash are available HERE : Feel22 with a discount using my code "TbhJoFeel22" on checkout, AND free delivery across Lebanon.

These product worked reeeaally well for me, I hope they do the same for you!

Thanks for reading! xo

TbhJo

10 places you SHOULD apply highlighter but you're not

Many of you guys already know about my obsession with highlighters, especially pigmented ones. Some endup skipping the highlighting step in their makeup routine, or they just don't apply it correctly in the right places, not wanting to look to shimmery or oily.

I personally have a regular to oily type of skin, and applying highlighter doesn't necessarily mean my makeup's gonna end up a glittery oily mess.

It all has to do with the right quantity, and the right product.

However, there are some body areas, that, once highlighted, give you a natural glow while accentuating them.

And TBH, these are the areas that ARE NOT TO MISS while applying highlighter:

1- Collar Bones

Lightly lift your shoulders forward until you can see your bone structure. Start dabbing and applying using a horizontal sweeping motion, on the high points of you bone structure so that the result doesn't look sweaty.

 Remember to start with a small quantity, since once there, if you applied too much, it's hard to remove them.

2- Shoulders

Shoulders are attractive, applying a bit of highlighter on them will make them even look more seductive. Apply in circular motion where light naturally hits.

3- Shoulder Blades

When you're wearing a backless top or dress. Since not much is focused on in the back fashion-wise, apply the shimmery product naturally following along the bone structure. The quantity is up to you, the more you add, the more dramatic effect you'll be creating.

4- Under the Brow Bone

Apply just under it, above the crease, to give illusion of larger eyes.

5- Inner Corner Of Your Eyes

Apply a dot of highlighter in the inner corner to brighten up your eyes and make them look more awake. The product's reflective properties make your whole eye look lighter.

6- Cupid's Bow

Give the illusion of bigger lips by applying highlighter on your cupid's bow , while giving your lipstick a clean look.

7- Center Of Your Eyelids

While applying eyeshadow, adding light shimmery colors will make your eyes look bigger.

8- Moisturizer Mix

Mix your moisturizer with a liquid highlighter, for a naturally glowing face while prepping it before makeup application, when not wanting to actually apply highlighter, for a more natural 'non-makeup' look.

9- Bridge Of Your Nose

Blend bronzer on the sides of your nose, then gently apply highlighter on the bridge aka the middle of your nose to make it appear slimmer and longer.

10- Apple Of The Cheek

Not only on the cheekbones. When you want to glow more and want to have a more contoured look, dab a small quantity in the center of the apple of your cheek, over the blush.

Hope these tips helped you out!

If you guys wanna know my favorite picks, let me know, will make sure to share them with you!

Thanks for reading! xo

TbhJo

My 10 confident reds.

TBH,


I've really missed writing blog posts for you guys. 
Wishing you all a very happy new year.

Today's inspo was RED LIPTICKS. ALL. OF. THEM.

In case you're not comfortable when wearing bold red lips, confused concerning the choice of brand and wondering about the final look,and NOT wanting to smudge it, which will ruin your whole look, I've got you covered: will tell you about my personal favourite red picks and recommendations, making it easier for you to dare and wear red whenever desired.

After all, with every red lipstick it's occasion. Red lips are both classic and classy, and never out of style. No wonder there's something so divine about women rocking red lips. 
Not to forget that red lips are attention grabbers, and attract compliments, which will eventually boost your self-esteem.

Eeennnough with the talking for now.

I personally never apply any lipstick, red or not - liquid or not - without a lipliner. The lipliner doesn't have to be red, nor match your lipstick colour, since that you'll only use it to define, contour your lips, to prevent colour bleeding and smudging and to enhance your lip features.

1- STUNNA Lip Paint

Surprisingly, I wasn't expecting this liquid lipstick to be that unique and that addicting, been using it a lot lately. Red is already kinda hard to apply, thought that a red liquid lipstick would make it harder, but with the easy-to-use applicator, and it's 12-hours lasting formula, it really is easy to apply on & stays all day long, even when eating. Perks of having it on : your lips will stay the same, your lipstick won't smudge nor stains around your lips AND touchups aren't needed at all, not even on the inner lower lip. Not to forget about how super white it'll make your teeth look.

2- LANI by GIGI Hadid x Maybelline

Not liquid, this  matte lipstick lasts for hours, doesn't smudge when spraying setting spray, at the end of your makeup application.

It's well pigmented so you get what you expect when you apply it. Few touchups needed during the day.

3- Chanel 36 - Lune Rousse

Considered burgundy on light skin like mine, the more layers you apply the stronger, more intense, and darker the colour. I usually dab it when dark colour isn't desired. However, it has a light formula, kind of greasy, but moisturising. Not too dark for daytime, yet dark enough to look pulled together and mysterious.  

4 & 5- MAC - Sparks Of Romance & MAC - Diva

Diva on the left, Sparks Of Romance of the right.

A limited edition matte lipstick, with a frost finish - with barely showing gold shimmer. Wears well, slightly dries the lips, and touchups are needed. Full colour coverage.

MAC - Diva

Deep burgundy-red, with a matte finish. Light texture, kind of creamy, but doesn't slide around over time, so touchups are needed since that it refuses to stay on the inner part of my lower lip. 

6- L'Oreal - Red Passion

Bright red, not for a weakhearted - a daring red that is worth the try. It brightens up the face instantly after it's application, especially in the case of minimal, simple makeup application. It has a bit of shimmer that barely shows.

7- Colourpop x Alexis Ren - Little Weapon

Super matte, transfer-proof, a true orange red. Lightweighted formula, very smooth on the lips & intense pigment, for the bold, matte look. This lipstick is considered long-lasting and 100% kiss proof lol - it doesn't transfer at. all, even when eating. This unique shade of read leans a bit towards neon, making your teeth look super white, no matter your skin tone.

8- Diego Della Palma - 169

Matte, long-lasting dark brownish-red. Just like 'Lune Rousse', I apply it by dabbing it when looking for a minimal dark-red lips look. Touchups are needed for the inner part of the lower lip during the day.

9- Yves Saint Laurent - Rouge Pur Couture - Vernis A Levres : 32- Rouge Avant-Guardiste

Glossy, tomato-red shade, does transfer, and wears-off after eating or drinking, so touchups are needed. If you're someone that enjoys wearing several shades of red regularly, or on a daily basis, then you' ll love this one.

10- Nars - Starwoman

Matte, liquid, medium-dark red, super pigmented, defines the lips perfectly,  covers the lips with only one layer. Not drying, but touchups are needed during the day, just as previously mentioned, for the inner part of the lower lip. - the one I have is in travel size -

These are my top 10 #TBHJOApproved ! Hope you enjoyed reading this and I hope it was beneficial. Let me know your favourite(s)red below!

Thanks for reading & stay tuned for more soon! Xo

TbhJo