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Vampire : The Masquerade Inspired Makeups

Happy New Year, folks! I thought I’d start off by discussing something positive, which has inspired a lot of my makeup work – Vampire: the Masquerade.

It’s no secret that I am a huge fan of the V:tM franchise. A love that was borne of playing the cult classic “Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines” PC game.

Making it’s way into every gaming related conversation for years, VtMB is one of few PC games I will recommend anyone tries out – whether you like vampire games or not. The humour, the ambiance, the music, storyline and characters all stand unparalleled.

While it does require a patch to be fully playable, & if you can look past the glitches; VtMB is well worth playing. Given that I first played V:MB 10 years after its release, I’d say the game has definitely stood the test of time.

So, over the past six years I’ve completed a number of VtMB character makeups & vampire Clan inspired looks…

Image on left is a V:tMB Pisha inspired makeup edit by Blabi Blogs/Ulbandi Cosplay. The image on the right is an in-game screenshot from V:TMB and does not belong to me.

Starting in 2015, the first VtMB makeup I ever did was inspired by the awesome character Pisha. Aside from the Ocean House Hotel, I think the mission where you end up finding her is one of the spookiest parts of VTMB.

This makeup edit is now also featured as a poster in the X20 V:tMB mod. Shoutout to Ian Watson for his support & kindly featuring my makeup work in this mod!

Screenshot of the X20 V:tMB mod, courtesy of Ian Watson/@VonAether on Twitter.

While Pisha was the first VtMB character that I cosplayed, next in line was the sassy Gary Golden. On my first playthrough, he was amusingly sharp towards my character (being Clan Toreador). So of course, he has been my favourite character ever since.

The makeup I did that was inspired by Gary Golden was my first proper SFX makeup, & first time using prosthetics.

The products you see used here are from Mehron (bald cap) and Morbid Mask (vampire forehead prosthetic). The prosthetic elf ear tips were from Space Monkey FX, however they don’t seem to be selling this product anymore.

After completing the Gary Golden inspired makeup, next was Jeanette Voerman. She’s probably the most recognisable character relating to the VtMB game itself. Over the span of 2016-2017 I did all 3 makeup looks of both Voerman sisters.

Therese Voerman inspired makeup. (2017)
Jeanette Voerman inspired makeup. (2016)
(2017) All three makeups were completed by me/Blabi Blogs 😊

For the majority of these makeups, a couple of my favourite brands to use were both NYX Cosmetics Liquid Suede liquid lipsticks, and Snazaroo face paints. As with most of my makeup work, I don’t wear contacts; my eyes are edited to look different colours.

Following the Voerman sister makeups, in 2018 I went on to complete a Velvet Velour inspired makeup. For those not familiar, Velvet Velvour (or “VV”) is the owner of Club Vesuvius & one of the most likeable characters in the game (coincidentally she’s also Clan Toreador). 😁

At the end of 2018 I completed a Ming Xiao inspired makeup, one of the more ruthless characters of V:tMB. Of course, if a character is genuinely dislikable, you know they’re well written.

Top image is a Ming Xiao (V:TMB) makeup edit by Ulbandi Cosplay/Blabi Blogs. Second image (bottom image) is a screenshot of the character from VTMB, and does not belong to me.

Early in 2019, I decided to attempt an Imalia (VtMB) inspired look. While I messed up the bald cap application this time (you can’t really tell), I was really happy with how the makeup turned out.

Imalia was the most recent VtMB character makeup I completed, at the beginning of 2019. Alongside the VtMB character makeups that I’ve done, I also completed several vampire clan inspired looks

Clan Toreador inspired makeup. Photography by Oli Harkness.
Clan Toreador inspired makeup. Photography by Oli Harkness.

The images above (& below) are from a Clan Toreador inspired photoshoot I did in December 2019.

On the topic of vampire Clans…

Depending on what clan you play as in VtMB, your experience will differ vastly. If you don’t already have a preferred clan, the clan Malkavian playthrough is definitely one of the most entertaining.

My very first playthrough was as Clan Toreador & this was selected for me via the in-game quiz. As a stark contrast, my second favourite clan is Nosferatu (& I’m currently in the process of writing up a clan Nosferatu character).

Other vampire clan looks I have done include Tremere, Malkavian, (more) Toreador, and Nosferatu.

Tremere Clan inspired makeup.
Toreador Clan inspired makeup.
Malkavian Clan inspired makeup.
Nosferatu Clan inspired makeup.
As a little disclaimer…

All the VtM related games I mention in this article are ones I’ve purchased myself. While it would be amazing, none of the makeup work I’ve produced (so far) has been part of a collab to officially promote the franchise.

Therefore, my glowing recommendation for VTMB is sincerely honest. Since Bloodlines 2 has been delayed, I will admit I have mixed feelings about the sequel. This is mainly due to Brian Mitsoda no longer being involved with the game (rather than the fact VtMB2 is delayed). Brian was a writer for the original VtMB game, so this had been promising for the sequel.

Bonus video of the Jeanette/Therese makeup! (from 2017)

Audio is from the V:tMB PC game and does not belong to me.

Thanks to 2020, my plans to become more involved in playing V:tM tabletop games have been put on hiatus. However, I have recently started playing Vampire: the Masquerade – Night Road on PC, which I will review at some point. So far, I’m enjoying the game.

Also, while I’ve not really mentioned the VtMB soundtrack much on this article, head on over to my 10 Awesome Horror Soundtracks if you’d like some specific song recommendations. 🦇

Are you folks fans of VTMB or the Vampire: the Masquerade games?

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Beauty

Lush Wigs

Over the years, many people have asked where I source my wigs from. One of my longtime favourite companies is ‘Lush Wigs‘, based in the UK.

If you’re unsure how well you’d suit a certain hair colour, or can’t commit to dying your hair, wigs are a fantastic alternative.

For daily wear or cosplay, Lush Wigs offer an extensive range of lacefront & fashion wigs to suit your budget. Here are some styles I’ve tried out from them;

Lacefront wig shown here is in style “Aileana”. This look features a top that I hand painted. Bauhaus band logo not designed by me!

Lacefront wig in style “Oceanic”. The T-shirt was kindly provided by Noble Demon Records. If you’re looking for a new death metal band to listen to, No Raza is definitely worth checking out!

Lacefront wig featured here is in style, “Coral“. The Dark Funeral vest featured here was hand painted by me, band logo was not designed by me.

Stunning lacefront wig in styles and “Stardust” and “Radon”. The Necessary Evil belt featured above was from Kates Clothing.

Lacefront wig in style “Stratus“. I used this wig for a Resident Evil: Village “Daniela” cosplay makeup, pictured below. Super excited for the release of the game!

Modelling and makeup done by me, necklace charms were also made by me.

The beautiful ombre wig below on the left is a lacefront bob, style “Spellbound”. On the right, the wig is style, “Caviar”. I purchased this wig quite a number of years ago for a Yennefer cosplay.

While it’s not a lace front wig, “Caviar” looks convincing enough if you blend your hairline with eyeshadow.

alternative model in pink wig

Pink wig is style “Azealia”, and peach wig is style “Peach Tea”.

“Sangria” is an absolutely stunning red ombre wig, & easy to style/braid (you can see this wig braided in the “Ways to Wear Band Merch” article.

Unfortunately “Sangria” has a slight issue with tangling. Other than that, the wig looks lovely on & the colour is gorgeous. Definitely one of my favourite styles from Lush Wigs.

Style, ” Dawn“, is a lovely natural brown ombre lace front wig.

Customer Service

Last year I was kindly sponsored by Lush Wigs, however – I’m a longtime customer with them, and only ever had positive experiences.

Shipping & delivery is always prompt and on time, and the quality of wigs never disappoints. The customer service has been super friendly and informative (should you have any issues with your order).

Lace front wig shown above is in style, ” Zombie“.

As you can see in the above centre image, the wigs are shipped in sturdy packaging. Most of the wigs I’ve received came with a wig cap & instructions on how to care for your wigs.

Sadly, some of the wigs featured on this article are no longer available. Be sure to take a look at Lush Wigs’ online store as they frequently add new styles. 😊

Are you folks interested in wigs or haircare?
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Beauty Music

Corpsepaint Tutorial

A tutorial for this corpsepaint look has been requested several times, so I’ve decided to share the video here (& a breakdown of what products I used). This particular look was inspired by an illustration from the talented artist, Justin O’Neal.

For anyone who’s unaware, corpsepaint is a significant component of the black metal scene & the imagery associated with it. As I’ve been a fan of the genre for a long time, I will be writing an article soon recommending some albums. 🙂

The products I used in this tutorial are as follows;

  • Snazaroo white & black water based facepaint.
  • Kiko Milano High Pigment Wet & Dry eyeshadow in shade, “Pearly Night Sky”.
  • “Girls With Attitude” eyelashes in style, “Empress”.
  • Superdrug’s White Eyelash Glue.
  • PS Pro Face Precision Smokey Eyeshadow Brush 3 Piece Set.
  • Real Techniques “Sculpting Set” brush pack.
  • Collection Beauty “Lasting Perfection Concealer” & Black Fast Stroke liquid eyeliner.

As I mention in the video, if you would prefer to use lipstick instead of face paint, I’d recommend NYX Cosmetics Liquid Suede lipstick in shade, “Alien”.

The quality of your overall look depends on what products you use.

So, if you use poor quality facepaint & apply it with a tiny eyebrow brush, the coverage won’t look as good as it could do.

I don’t use a sponge here to apply to facepaint, but it’s better to use one. Using a high density sponge makes facepaint application a lot easier & more even. Snazaroo face paint has a tendency to look patchy if you don’t use a sponge, or if you dilute it too much with water.

The longevity of the makeup also depends on whether you use setting products (powder, setting spray), and how well you take care of your skin. For best results, establish a good skincare routine. Make sure you clean & moisturise your skin before and after wearing makeup. A skin primer may also give a more even appearance to your makeup.

Disclaimer, the products I’ve listed may not be compatible with your skin. It’s important to test and research what works best for you; particularly if you have skin conditions. Most brands advise you perform a skin patch test before applying & wearing their products.

Also, none of the products mentioned here have been sponsored or gifted 🙂

The song featured on this tutorial is by Elderwind,

one of my favourite black metal bands/projects. The name of the song is “Last Winter’s Night” and comes from their album, “The Magic of Nature” – which I consider to be one of the best atmospheric black metal albums out there.

Elderwind also recently released a new single, “The Relict”, if you’d like to check it out.

Previously I also featured the fantastic song “Runes of Power” by Summoning in this video. Due to copyright issues with featuring this song in the tutorial on Youtube, I’ve decided to remove it.

Summoning are well known in the black metal scene, and most of their lyrical content is themed around Tolkien’s works. The first song I ever heard from them was “Mirdautas Vras” back in 2006 (on a Sauron fan-made music video). 😁 Alongside Elderwind, Summoning are another of my all time favourite black metal bands & I highly recommend you listen to their music.

On that note, any metal bands who would like their songs to be featured in my videos – please feel free to send me a message. 😊

Are you folks fans of black metal music?

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Beauty

Budget Friendly Beauty Picks (Winter 2020)

After such a bleak 2020, I thought I’d write a roundup of the beauty products I’ve had positive experiences with this year.

Some products are longtime favourites, and others are new discoveries. None of the products listed here are sponsored, just what I’d recommend!

Please keep in mind these product reviews are based on my own personal experience, and therefore may differ vastly from what you experience. Always take necessary precautions (as advised on product packaging/by the manufacturer) if you’re considering trying any of these products – especially if you have skin complaints or allergies.

Affordable liquid eyeliner that doesn’t transfer

Collection’s Fast Stroke Eye Liner is long lasting, pigmented & my absolute favourite liquid eyeliner. As someone with hooded eyes, this is the best eyeliner I’ve used (so far) for not transferring on the crease of the eye, after it’s dried. Great for everyday wear.

In the past, it’s been unforgiving on my sensitive eyes & burned a little while drying. That’s no longer been an issue within recent years (maybe due to a change in formula). But, please do keep this in mind if you have sensitive eyes.

Full glam makeup, created with all Primark beauty products (except for the eyeliner, which is Collection’s Fast Stroke Eye Liner).

Moisturiser & sunblock that isn’t greasy

No matter what time of the year, sunscreen is an essential part of your skincare to ensure protection. A big problem is finding products that aren’t greasy, & easy to wear under makeup.

A moisturiser and heavy duty sunblock in one, Cetaphil Daily Defence Moisturiser (SPF50) is what I’ve been using for most of this year. Both great on it’s own and underneath makeup, it absorbs easily & doesn’t leave your skin feeling oily. For an even more lightweight solution (if you’re not going outside much) is Nivea’s Nourishing Day Cream (SPF 15).

My only complaint with the Cetaphil Daily Defence moisturiser is it’s more recently began to irritate my eyes. So, I’m still looking for another high factor sunscreen/moisturiser.

*The* perfect liquid lipstick…

Goes by the name of NYX Cosmetics Liquid Suede liquid lipsticks.

No matter what liquid lipsticks I try out – without fail, I return to NYX Cosmetics Liquid Suede. The shade I most often wear is “Sandstorm”, however I own this product in several different shades.

It has every attribute you could need in a liquid lipstick; durable, perfect matte finish, beautiful colour & virtually no bleeding. Most importantly, it’s not drying on the lips at all. The formula is amazing!

Super pigmented budget eyeshadows

While the selection can be limited for individual eyeshadows, Primark’s eyeshadows & eyeshadow palettes are often overlooked. Certain palettes can be hit and miss with different eyeshadow shades, but for the affordable prices – you can’t really fault them.

While I’m always on the lookout for pigmented palettes, the Primark Shadow & Shade palette has been my go-to for years now.

Another honourable mention is Kiko Milano, who make one of the most beautiful and pigmented eyeshadows I’ve bought. (Above is a short video using one of their eyeshadows!).

Stunning iridescent nail polish

In all my years of buying nail polish, Barry M have always been a go to for fantastic & affordable nail polishes. I’m a sucker for iridescent colours, and Barry M have always delivered a stunning range. Plus, their products are both vegan & cruelty free!

Skincare products that aren’t dehydrating

Recently I’ve paid more attention to my skincare routine. A few products have really stood out for keeping my skin (relatively) under control. Primark’s Gentle Face Wash has been good for daily use (& doesn’t leave my face feeling dehydrated).

Occasionally I use face scrubs; either St Ives’s Radiant Skin Pink Mango and Orange Face Scrub (moderately exfoliating) or St Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub (deeply exfoliating). St Ives’ products have always been fantastic for leaving my face feeling smooth.

However, neither of these products are recommended for daily use – overuse of exfoliating products can actually leave your skin more oily.

In addition to this, I’ve also tried out Simple’s Daily Skin Detox Pore Polishing Face Scrub which claims to be more gentle on the skin (as it’s designed for daily use). Unfortunately, as is the case for several of Simple’s products, this did not suit my skin and I am happy to stick to exfoliating less frequently.

What beauty products have you tried out this year? Have you folks found any new favourites?

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Beauty Lifestyle

Uniqso “Medium Beige” Wig Review

Woman with blonde wig in Halloween clown makeup
 
Uniqso are one of the biggest online brands for contact lenses – but what about the wigs they offer?
 
Last year I was kindly gifted a Medium Beige wig from Uniqso, which I will be reviewing here. I will also be offering a nifty discount code, so you can try one out for yourself!

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