Labor Day not only marks the end of the summer season, but also summer fashion as well. I'm sure you've heard the old fashion adage, "don't wear white shoes after Labor Day!". Does this same restriction apply to pink lip-gloss? What about lime green eye shadow? Always wanting to be cosmetic-ly correct, I enlisted the help of hair stylist & make up artist extraordinaire Shea-Shea Johnson co-owner of Thaanx 2 U Hair Salon. Shea-Shea's impressive celeb list of clients include Alicia Keys, A.J Johnson, Gary Dourdan, Kellita Smith, Kerry Washington, Spike Lee & Tisha Campbell.

Anyone talented enough to powder fine @(#* Gary Dourdan's nose is definitely qualified to share beauty secrets with a wanna be like me. Read on as Shea-Shea offers us some "MAC-nificent suggestions to transition beautifully into Fall.

Changing Faces
Q. With cooler days ahead, I asked Shea-Shea if wearing hot, bright colors on our eyes and lips is breaking "the rules"?
A. "Simplicity is key. I don't follow "the rules" but I do believe in keeping it simple. If you want to wear a bright eye shadow it's important to apply it in moderation, and make sure it is blended well. The object is to not let the eye shadow over power your face.

Fall into Beauty
Q. Can you recommend any essentials as we transition into Fall?
A. "Hydrating the skin is essential! Drinking water is the first step to having healthy, dewy skin. Also, it is important to continue to use a moisturizer that contains sunscreen. Sunscreen not only protects our faces from sun damage but also acts as a barrier against cold winter weather. So skincare first, then makeup. For fall I prefer natural, earth tones like Samoa Silk eye shadow. Tan-Ray eye paint, Peaches blush, & Oh Baby lip glass, all by MAC Cosmetics.

Beauty Express
Q. With the end of summer also comes the beginning of school. For many moms with school age children, that can also mean less time in the bathroom. Any advice for looking polished in say 10 minutes?
A. Definitely. Starting with a clean face and groomed eyebrows.
1. Lightly dust face with a MAC SPF 15 Foundation.
(Remember the key is moderation. You don't want to over powder)
2. Apply 2 coats of mascara.
3. Apply blush or bronzer. (Peaches by MAC works on just about every skintype)
4. Apply lipgloss. (Oh Baby by MAC works on just about every skintype)

What's in Your Makeup Bag?
Q. Your going to be stranded on a desert island. What do you definitely pack into your makeup bag?
A. Definicils Mascara by Lancome, Pink Freeze eyeshadow by MAC, C-Thru Lip Glass by MAC, MAC shadow brushes #'s 224, 252 & 266 and Fashion Fair Skin Treatment Program (Cleanse, Rinse, Moisturize) because it is so important to wash off your make up before bed!

Face Painting
Q. Thank you Shea-Shea. I've enjoyed talking "shop" with you and I've definitely added a few items to my beauty-shopping list. But I also need help with makeup application. Do you teach makeup application?
A. I do. I give makeup consultation as well as workshops on makeup application. I also do makeovers from head to toe, and I do make up for bridal partys, special events, etc. I can be reached at (510) 262-9220 or (510) 812-8602 for an appointment.

There you have it ladies…pro tips on Fall Beauty. Of course, inner beauty is the best beauty because it doesn't wash off! But if you need a little help painting your face don't hesitate to give my girl a call…who knows you just might see Gary!

Cathy Gatson is a freelance writer and owner/operator of a hair and body salon in Northern California.