VOGUE: The Women of Nine

Judi Dench, Marion Cotillard, Kate Hudson, Fergie, Nicole Kidman, Penélope Cruz, and Sophia Loren, at London's Shepperton Studios, photographed by Annie Leibovitz for Vogue, Nov 2009.

Here's a peek at Vogue's November cover story featuring the uber-talented and exquisitely beautiful women on Nine!

"One by one, six of the seven leading ladies in Guido's life appear through a doorway high up in the rafters and slink down the stairs, positioning themselves languorously around the set. First, to the grand orchestral music of the "Overture Delle Donne," the singer Fergie, who plays Saraghina, a prostitute, appears in a gray, corseted frock, all cleavage and russet hair, her eyes kohled into a smudgy, sexy mess. She is followed by Kate Hudson, perky as ever, in a white fringed sixties minidress and go-go boots, her blonde tresses teased into tumbling curls. The outfit perfectly suits her character, Stephanie, a Vogue journalist. Next, Judi Dench, playing costume designer Lily, appears clad in black and smoking a cigarette.

Then comes a saucy Penélope Cruz, as Guido's mistress, Carla, in a polka-dot cocktail dress that gives her the silhouette of a fifties pinup. Nicole Kidman follows, striking a powerful pose in a nude-colored strapless, sparkling gown as movie star Claudia, Guido's inspiration and obsession. Finally, an astoundingly well-preserved Sophia Loren, playing Guido's mother, makes her entrance, leaning over the balcony and shooting a stern but loving look toward Guido far below. (Marion Cotillard, who plays Guido's long-suffering wife, Luisa, is not in this scene.)

"You could call it an iconfest," I scribble in my notes. Then, rather unimaginatively, I add "razzle-dazzle-pizzazz musical great antidote to misery-gloom-doom of credit crunch" before, thankfully for the reader, I am diverted by the whisper "Ciao! Plume!" from behind me. I turn to see a vision of toffee-colored Loro Piana cashmere before me—Mr. Valentino and his partner, Giancarlo Giammetti.

"We're here to see Sophia," explains Giammetti. "She said to me, 'It's the best movie I've ever done.' " Mr. Valentino adds, "She said, 'It's the most expensive movie I've ever done.' " From the rear, producer Harvey Weinstein, dressed in a white shirt and black pants, booms, "Judi Dench said to me, 'I have to make Ten and Eleven!' " Just then, Pedro Almodóvar walks by, plus entourage, in search of Penélope Cruz's dressing room. I scrawl "icon overload" on my legal pad.

Nicole turns to Kate, who has covered her costume with a white terry robe. Her feet are now clad in a pair of UGG boots. "Kate should be on Broadway," says Nicole. "She should be the lead." Kate's eyes sparkle with excitement when she talks about her number "Cinema Italiano," which was written especially for her by Yeston. "I spent most of my childhood singing and dancing and just never had the chance to do it professionally. So when I got the chance to work with Rob, I was so excited, I was out of my mind."Hudson tells me that rehearsals felt like "being at summer camp," although she adds, "I don't think there is any actress who looks forward to missing those days with her kids. But at the same time there is no one who wants to stop acting." Nicole admits, "I had no desire to work after I had my daughter, but to lure me back, this movie was the only way."

In the makeup studio, I meet Peter Swords King, Oscar-winning hair and makeup designer, who has a team of 28 working with him. The walls are covered in inspirational black-and-white photos of sixties stars like Monica Vitti, Brigitte Bardot, and Julie Christie. "Those girls always looked like they just got out of bed—in a good way," says Peter, confiding that authentic bedroom hair is achieved by running your fingers through your hair instead of brushing it, after you curl it. "I was completely inspired by the Italian New Wave-film look—Sophia Loren and Claudia Cardinale." As for the makeup, think false eyelashes, eyeliner, and pancake foundation. "There's something incredibly sexy about the dark eyes and the pale lips," says Marshall. "That era worshipped the beauty of women."

~ excerpted from the feature article written by Plum Sykes, Vogue

Read more about the movie, the women, the actresses, beauty, wardrode and more in Vogue's November issue on stands now.

REVIEW: Multiple Beauty Award Winner Relastin Eye Silk

It says something when you win Allure Magazine's Best of Beauty Editors' Choice award three years running. That's exactly what Relastin Eye Silk has accomplished, winning for the third year in a row Allure's Best Anti-Wrinkle Cream. These awards go to the products Allure's beauty editors choose as the best, having had the good fortune to try thousands of beauty products each year.

Developed by Reverance Therapetics, a specialty biopharmaceutical company, company president and CEO Dan Browne offers, "Eye Silk's Zinc Firming Complex has established itself as one of the top anti-aging technologies. While its results are clinically proven, the consistent enthusiasm from top beauty editors validates how well the product works for the consumer."

The company boasts Eye Silk's patent-pending Zinc Firming Complex is the first technology that is clinically proven to increase elastin production. While many anti-aging products focus on collagen production, Eye Silk is reported to go beyond this benefit by increasing the amount of functional elastin fibers in the skin - a key structural protein in skin. Elastin stops being produced by the body in our teens, and as a result, skin loses resiliency and slowly begins to sag and wrinkle. Zinc Firming Complex, featured in all three Relastin products, penetrates skin, and works at the cellular level to help stimulate elastin production. The company reports they completed studies in September 2006 that clinically demonstrated Relastin's ability to help increase functional elastin in the skin, visibly decreasing fine lines, coarse wrinkles, and undereye laxity and puffiness. They say study participants also noticed a decrease in undereye dark circles after four weeks of Eye Silk application.

REVIEW: So here's my experiene. First, let me 'fess up that I've wanted to try this ever since Kristin Kelly, the consummate beauty connoisseur who writes Beauty Addict, first talked about the compliments she was receiving at makeup counters after using Eye Silk. For some reason, I didn't break down and buy it, as other products continued to tantalize me, though always in the back of my mind I knew there'd come a day.

Relastin Eye Silk is a powdery gel formula that spreads very easily, similar to the consistency of Smashbox Photofinish Primer. A little goes a long way; it only takes a smaller than pea size pump (not even a pump really) to pat onto the undereye skin of both eyes to do the trick. I've noticed truly visible results, having used the product for about four weeks, applying at night and some mornings. The wrinkle minimizing is the biggest positive effect, though dark circles do appear slightly less noticeable as well. I'm not noticing any reduction in undereye puffiness, an issue I'd very much like to diminish, but I'm thrilled with the other results.

The product has no scent, is light and airy in texture, blends very easily so as not to pull delicate skin under the eye. For me, this product has definitely given me positive results in firming the undereye area, reducing appearance of wrinkles, and softened the overall appearance of my undereye area. I'm loving it!

Relastin Eye Silk is available in a .5 fl oz pump dispenser retailing for about $69 at the following stores as well as through dermatologists nationwide: Bliss Spas, SkincareRx, Dermstore, Relastin, SkinStore, SpaLook and Perfume Worldwide (where the product is usually offered at discounted pricing).

REVIEW: Living Proof No Frizz

My new go-to styling product for hair!

Living Proof's Wave Shaping, Curl Defining No Frizz Styling Treatment is the product you seek to fall back in love with your wavy, curly hair! I'm convinced. A daily treatment (if needed, or you may go several days without having to wash again) for optimum frizz-reduction and conditioning, it claims to offer the first new anti-frizz technology in over 30 years. No Frizz addresses the two causes of frizz—humidity and friction. As a wavy, curly haired belle in the deep south of New Orleans (read: tropical hell for about 7-8 months of the year), I reeeeeally wanted this product to live of to the hype. It did.

Wave Shaping, Curl Defining No Frizz Styling Treatment provides a superior, extremely thin humidity barrier on hair while reducing surface friction. The result is an effective, lightweight frizz fighter, one of the best on the market today. This expert styling secret weapon contains a touchable holding polymer to give waves and curls added definition. Hair is left sleek and manageable without becoming sticky, "crunchy", greasy or heavy at all. This is a versatile product as well. Comb through and leave hair to air dry, or blow dry for lustrous, shiny locks. Get styling tips from No Frizz here.

Living Proof's No Frizz formulas efficiently deliver PolyfluoroEster to the surface of the hair in one even, perfect layer—devoid of any extraneous additives. This advanced styling aid works great on color-treated hair and is terrific for highly processed hair. No Frizz also repels dirt and oil so you can go longer between shampoos.

I'm telling you, I'm really delighfully impressed with this brand. I've tried this and their Straight Making No Frizz Styling Treatment with equal success. Both are a creamy-gel in texture, with a very light organic-botancial scent. Te key is not to use too much. I have a head full of very thick, wavy, longer-than-shoulder-length hair and all I need is about a quarter-size amount of the treatment in the palm of my hand to handle my whole head of hair. Those with less hair (in thickness or length) will need much less. As such, the bottle will last you a good long while.

Apparently I'm not the only one who has fallen in love with Living Proof's No Frizz products. Marie Claire featured it in their Top Hair Products - Behind the Scenes: Model Behavior article. Living Proof's wavy and straight styling creams are both available in three versions (fine to medium, medium to thick and thick to course) and in two sizes (2 oz and 4 oz). $14 - $24. Available at Sephora, Living Proof ad QVC.

YLANG 23 Presents Sydney Evan Jewelry

YLANG23 (formerly known as Ylang-Ylang) is owned by Joanne and Charles Teichman opened in Dallas in 1985, and quickly attracted a faithful clientele. Those they serve either can afford anything or insist upon a certain style epxressive of their own inner aesthetic, and prefer the fine workmanship of renowned designers who shape the trends in the U.S. and Europe.

While their jewelry has changed over the years, one constant is that they've always stayed ahead of the curve, always true to a vision of providing the most exciting breakthrough collections, and always a level of service their clients find unmatched. Their clients have a natural ability to put pieces together, whether it's Chanel or Gap (or the two together), Cathy Waterman, Me & Ro, or a rare day stripped of all jewelry.

Enter Roseanne Karmes. In her Sydney Evan collection, Karmes conveys personal sentiment in trendy, hip and expressive pieces that include the hamsa and evil eye pendants - spiritual protection pieces. Life, love and family are all reflected in Karmes’ jewelry, all executed in diamonds and gold. Sydney Evan enjoys a large following of jewelry lovers, who collect stacks of bracelets and good luck pieces.

Individual pieces range from about $250 to $3,000. Please visit YLANG 23 for more information and to shop their fantastic lines of chic, trendy designer jewelry.

Tarte Girl on Top Sweepstakes

In Girl on Top, career expert and best-selling author Nicole Williams takes 20 tried-and-true dating rules you know (and have probably used) such as "Play Hard to Get" and "Don’t Give Away the Milk for Free"—and shows you how to put them to use when the object of your affection is your job. With her ingenious approach—taking the tactics used to land a man and applying them to your career—you’ll be able to handle any work situation and come out on top. Here's the advice no one else has been willing to tell you, right at your fingertips!

And to celebrate the release of Girl on Top, Tarte is sponsoring their own girl on top contest free-for-all! I love a good giveaway, don't you? Here's the scoop:

Three lucky winners will receive a Tarte and Girl on Top prize package. The Grand Prize includes: (over a $1,250 value!)

Phone coaching session with Girl on Top author and career expert Nicole Williams
A signed copy of Girl on Top
Girl on Top reusable tote
Tarte's clean slate natural primer
Tarte's lash lights, camera, lashes! 4-in-1 clinically proven natural mascara
Tarte's picture perfect eyelash curler
Tarte's park avenue princess mineral bronzer
Tarte's natural cheek stain in dollface
Tarte's emphasEYES in black
Tarte's eye couture palette
Tarte's rise and shine in mauve

There are second and third prizes to win as well. Lots of goodness to be spread. So, what to do you have to do to win? Ohhhh, a whole lot! Alright, sorry, sarcastic, stupid mood has aparently taken over me tonight.

Just click HERE to complete the entry form. Yep, that's it.

Look for your special code for 20% of Tarte products after entering. Winners will be selected at random and notified via email. No purchase neccesary to enter. Contest closes on October 31, 2009 11:59pm EST.

Sephora Pick Your Own Treats: 5 Free Samples

Sephora is upping their free sample loot for customers making a purchase of any size. Woohoo ... nothing draws me to buy more than free goodies! For me, it's the ultimate incentive. Here are the brands Sephora has to choose your samples from right now:

Urban Decay, Laura Mercier, Smashbox, Kate Somerville, Bvlgari, Ole Henriksen, Chanel, Tocca, Peter Thomas Roth, LORAC, Leslie Blodgett (ok, ladies, I'm cracking up at that last choice, but anyway ... seriously? Leslie Blodgett of Bare Escentuals notoriety has a namesake fragrance out? Oy vey ... say it isn't so - there for your pickin' if you so desire).

Visit Sephora online to do your shopping and select your sample gifts. Free with any order only through 10/15/09.

Beautorium Invites Us to Think Pink and Go Green

Natural beauty retailer Beautorium has announced a new initiative that will unite breast cancer fundraising, in support of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure® North Jersey Affiliate, with education about the health benefits of natural and organic beauty products. From Oct. 15, 2009 - Jan. 15, 2010, 25 percent of the proceeds from select products listed at

Beautorium will be donated to the North Jersey Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Beautorium has enlisted several of its brands, among the top natural beauty companies in the world, to participate in the effort. Exuberance Beauty, John Masters Organics, Juice Beauty, Marina Cosmetics, red flower, Revolution Organics, Saaf, Sophyto and Trilogy will donate to the cause. Melvita Organics will also join the lineup at the time of its US debut on Nov. 9. Among the 35 natural and organic products hand-picked to benefit Susan G. Komen North Jersey are Beautorium top-sellers like Trilogy Organic Rosehip Oil, Exuberance Brightening Facial Serum with Vitamin C, Saaf Organic Eraser Body Oil and Juice Beauty SPF 30 Tinted Moisturizer.

The unique support that Beautorium brings to Susan G. Komen North Jersey highlights the organizations’ interest in health awareness and education for women. In addition to raising funds that will help save lives, bring care and support to breast cancer patients and work toward a cure, Beautorium seeks to further the understanding of the importance of natural and organic products for our best health. Many ingredients that are commonly found in commercial beauty preparations have been linked to cancer or other health issues. Given that skin is our largest organ, able to absorb 60% of what we put on our bodies, the choice of natural and organic personal care products is an important step in protecting ourselves from an overload of harmful chemicals.

Beautorium offers only the highest quality natural products that are free from ingredients like parabens, phthalates, sodium laurel sulfate (SLS), sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) and polyethylene glycol (PEG), which may pose serious health risks. To learn more about the potentially harmful ingredients in your beauty products, visit Skin Deep, at cosmeticsdatabase.com.

“I would like to thank Beautorium for raising awareness and funds for our organization from their Think Pink, Go Green Collection. Their support will help us to one day realize our goal and vision of a world without breast cancer.” said Deborah Q. Belfatto, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Susan G. Komen North Jersey.

Beautorium founder Ann Francke says, “We are passionate about the fight against breast cancer and thank Susan G. Komen North Jersey for the opportunity to support their work. We are hoping that our benefit campaign will be highly successful and enjoyed by all!”

The Mystery of Perfume: An ELLE and Barney's Special Event

Now you see, this is exactly why I need to live in or closer to New York. Right? I mean, really, it would take me all of a second to decide whether or not to take the morning off, or even the whole day, to attend this epitome of a fragance lover's event!

Are you kidding me? Frederic Malle Editions de Parfums, Antonia Bellanca Antonia's Flowers, Fabrice Penot Le Labo, and Ben Gorham Byredo Parfums ... leading a discussion to unravel the mystery of perfume for attendees. I'd probably stand there starstruck at just the notion of the creative talent in the room. These are masters, my loves! If you have any ability to attend, don't miss this.

The Mystery of Perfume - Panel of Experts

L-R: Frederic Malle, Antonia Bellanca, Fabrice Penot, Ben Gorham

ELLE Editor in Chief Roberta Myers + ELLE Beauty Director Emily Dougherty invite you to unravel the mystery of perfume. Enjoy a panel discussion hosted at Barneys New York.

Fred's Restaurant

Madison and Sixty-First

Wednesday, October 21st

8:30 - 10:00AM

$25 Attendance fee redeemable in product in store.

A fabulously fragrant goody bag for all attendees! Ladies and gents, this is going to be uber-popular so please do RSVP early. Visit Barneys.com/ELLE and add The Mystery of Perfume to your cart to reserve your spot. Space is limited!

Essie Deliciously Wicked New Season

Essie has gathered some favorite and deliciously dark shades together for a wicked celebration of the new season. Whether wearing them shiny or matte, alone or variations of many, these classic colors will give your fingers and tootsies a chic look.

Decadent Diva - a daring dark brown with a hint of bronze shimmer

Lady Godiva - creamy, chocolately brown

Licorice - sweet like candy, but dark as night

Marshmallow - sheer, playful white, perfect for a French Manicure

Wicked - a malicious, yet playful deep, dark red; an essie cult favorite

Matte About You! - mattify your color for the new fashion-forward look

And of course, wear pink this October...on your fingers and toes in an effort to raise breast cancer awareness. To join in the fight against this disease, essie cosmetics has created Yes We Can, Pink!, a new nail color, for which a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC), a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering women affected by the disease.

Available online and in fine spas and salons. Please visit essie cosmetics for more information and to shop all the gorgeous shades and products. Enjoy free shipping with your order of $40 or more with promo code: FREESHIP40.

Lancome GWP's and Beauty Offers - Everywhere

As everyone knows, Lancôme offers their customers the best gifts with purchase, deluxe sample collections, mini palettes and special offers out there. Makeup bags, cosmetics, skincare, lippies, shadows, serums, creams, cases ... it goes on. And they do so on a regular basis. It's not a once or twice a year beauty event, it's once a week or more!

As such, we almost always have the opportunity to try wonderful products when making even a small purchase from Lancôme. I've discovered some really fantastic products through their freebies that I may have never thought to try otherwise. Been wanting to try Genifique Youth Activating Concentrate (this is a must-have product for anyone 35 or over), or a new lippie from the Kate Winslet created Smoky Roses collection, a new fragrance for fall or test their Oscillation products (mascara, lash primer or foundation)?

Well, pick your favorite shopping destination (in-store or online) and head for the Lancôme counter.

Dillard's Gift a la Carte
Receive a chic cosmetics bag stuffed with beauty favorites as your gift with any Lancome purchase of $29.50 or more. You get to choose which samples you'd like to try. Fill your bag with your choice of six (6) makeup or skincare must-haves! One gift per person while supplies last (up to $130 value). Deluxe samples to choose from include:

• Lancome Genifique Youth Activating Concentrate
• Lancome High Resolution Collaser-5X™ Intense Collagen Anti-Wrinkle Serum
• Lancome Color Design Sensational Effects Eye Shadow Quad in Strappy Sandals, Dirty Pink, Effortless and Guest List
• Lancome Color Design Sensational Effects Eye Shadow Quad in Daylight, Vue, Drama, Amethyst Charm
• Lancome Definicils High Definition Mascara
• Lancome Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover
• Lancome Creme Radiance Clarifying Cream-to-Foam Cleanser
• Lancome Absolue Premium Bx Absolute Replenishing Cream
• Lancome Color Design Sensational Effects Lipcolor in Curtain Call
• Lancome Color Fever Shine Sensual Sheer Color Vibrant Lipshine in Old Flame
• Lancome Color Design Lipcolor in All Done Up

Visit Lancome at Dillards, or click link to order online. Offer good 10/6/09 - 10/25/09 or while supplies last. Ordering online, get free shipping with Lancome purchase of $50.00 or more as well.

Lancome USA Spellbinding October Beauty
This is a Lancome online offer. Receive six (6) fabulous beauty treats and free shipping with your $45 or more online order. Samples include:

• HIGH RÉSOLUTION REFILL-3X™ Triple Action Renewal Anti-Wrinkle Cream
• EFFACIL Gentle Eye Makeup Remover
• TONIQUE DOUCEUR Alcohol Free Freshener
• COLOR FEVER SHINE Lipcolor in Provocative
• VIRTUOSE Divine Lasting Curves Mascara
• COLOR DESIGN EYE SHADOW in Daylight, Amber Mystique, Pose and Couture

Click link and ente promo code: OCTDELUXE at checkout.

Offer good thru 10/11/09 or while supplies last.

Bloomingdale's Gift a la Carte
Choose between Natural Warms, Chic Neutrals or Dramatic Cools. Your gift with any Lancôme purchase of $35 or more (valued up to $110).








NATURAL WARMS: Definicils High Definition Mascara in Black; Color Design Eye Shadow Quad in Honeymoon, Suntouched, Amber Mystique and Lézard; Color Fever Lipstick in Wicked Brown; Le Rouge Absolu in Sun Touched Terra











CHIC NEUTRALS: Virtuose Black Carat Mascara in Black; Color Design Eye Shadow Quad in Drape, Camisole, Opal Mystère and The New Black; Color Fever Lipstick in Edgy; Color Design Lipcolor in Rose Defile











DRAMATIC COOLS: Virtuose Black Carat Mascara in Black; Color Design Eye Shadow Quad in Daylight, Vue, Volcano and Statuesque; Color Fever Shine Lipshine in Hot Nights; Color Design Lipcolor in Vintage Rose



PLUS, receive HIGH RÉSOLUTION REFILL-3X™ Triple Action Renewal Anti-Wrinkle Cream SPF 15 and BI-FACIL Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover all in a Lancôme Signature Cosmetics Bag

In-store and Bloomingdale's online 10/5/09 - 10/25/09 or while supplies last (in FL and Atlanta Bloomie's stores only, available 10/21 - 11/08).

Chanel Spring 2010 RTW

I'm in love with Karl Lagerfeld's Spring 2010 RTW collection for Chanel shown in Paris yesterday. Still trying to get all the deets on hair and beauty, which was stunningly feminine, but will share what I know at this point as I just can't wait. x




The catwalk: country life amid a farmhouse reminiscent of Marie Antoinette's petit hameau. The clothing - exquisite. Models looking like Bardot-esque french maidens daintily clad in pale pink, white, black and gray painstakingly beautiful creations of tweed, lace, hems with frayed edges, sheer ribbons woven into fabric accentuated clothing and accessories, jackets belted and loose, suits and skirts cut into sculpted bells, floral frocks, high-heeled clogs - Lagerfeld nicknamed "5 o'clogs" - and flowered heels befitting of a queen. An occasional piece in french red or pale, shimmering gold enlivened the collection, adding warmth and intrigue. Sheer, delicate red, white and blue dresses lent the spirit of Paris in springtime to the show.

Of course, already firing up twitter waves, the blogosphere and online beauty mags alike is the revelation of Chanel Beauty Creative Director Peter Philips' nail polish for the season, a blended purplish, taupey gray, which is being compared to OPI's You Don't Know Jacques and Parlez Vous as well as Sephora's Metro Chic (a creation by OPI as well). Well, we knew taupey grays were gonna be BIG come fall, didn't we? Looks like they'll be around, in varying shades and mutations, for a while.



Lagerfeld left no detail unchecked; and would we expect anything less? Current muse and face of the new Coco Cocoon handbag collection for Chanel, Lily Allen, performed the show opener beneath a rustic pergola. Fair french countryside maidens romped through the hay adorned with soft penciled tattoos displaying iconic Chanel imagery and faux chain garters (the temporary tatts - a popular trend throughout Spring 2010 fashion shows, e.g. Rodarte, Galliano too). Lagerfeld took his ending walk down the runway amidst a staged menage a trois delighting in a playful romp in the hay. The collection, as the show itself, is such a splendid treat in visual stimulation, it's almost too gluttonous for earthly consumption. Just delicious!

images: elle, wwd, nymag

PurpleLab: SWAC Lip Gloss - Kiss for a Cure

New fom the deliciously fabulous PurpleLab!

PurpleLab has partnered with the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation to create a special lip gloss, SWAC ("Sealed With a Cure"), with partial proceeds to go to the charity. The gloss has been designed to boost "beauty, health, and confidence" while raising money for breast cancer research. Since launching the wildly popular Huge Lips Skinny Hips line of plumping lip glosses (I LOVE these glosses!), PurpleLab has been on a roll participating in and celebrating one event after another.

SWAC in Nancy is named after Nancy Block-Zenna, a much beloved woman who was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer when she was 35 years old. PurpleLab founder Karen Robinovitz discovered Nancy's story through mutual friends and wanted to learn more about this particular, lesser known type of cancer. Sadly, Nancy passed away two and a half years after her diagnosis. Inspired by Nancy's strength, her mutual friends set up the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation to raise awareness and support research.

Nancy's favorite color - pink - was chosen for this amazing gloss. SWAC's sheer pink color, a blush tone that looks amazing on all skin tones, features gold flecks for extra dazzle.

Features and Benefits

• Paraben-free

• Health boosting and immune system enhancing ingredients including Mangosteens Echinacea

• Ultra-moisturizing, non-sticky formula

• Scented with uplifting Vanilla

• Real gold flecks

• Enriched with anti-aging peptides

Mangosteen: Originating from the Sunda Inslands and Moluccas of Indonesia, this Asian superfruit is rich in antioxidants and is know to stimulate the immune system
Echinacea: This Native American Purple Coneflower is a herb known for stimulating the immune system, making cells more efficient in attacking disease
Vanilla: a natural anti-depressant with antioxidant properties
Vitamin E: An ultra moisturizing antioxidant
Vitamin C: An antioxidant that nurtures the skin and helps protect cells
Gold Flecks: Dating back to ancient times, gloss as been used for its healing properties
Peptide 168: Contains anti-aging benefits

Available through pre-order only at this time. Get your order in now; this is going to be a hugely popular product! Visit b-glowing for more information and to pre-order your gloss. SWAC will retail for $18.50 a tube and is set for shipping 10/16/09, with partial proceeds benefitting the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation.

Gucci Spring 2010 RTW - Naural Cover Girl

A girl is the picture of modernity when she's wearing neutrals in white, black, gray and brown with smattering of brights in angled and swirled geometric patterns of orange, royal blue, and hot pink fucshia. Such was the collection Frida Giannini showed for Gucci Spring 2010 RTW in Milan.



Makeup artist Pat McGrath was the creative artist behind this look of beauty, "It's much lighter for Gucci. Lightness in makeup is a trend for spring." She used a light brown powder on the eyes and a narrow brown liquid liner to define the lash line. Brown mascara was added to the lashes and a nude pink cream Cover Girl blush swept on the cheekbones.


Luigi Murenu achieved pin-straight hair, with a flat iron and comb, and tied into low ponytails with a deep side part. "It's very precise and a little bit futuristic," said Murenu. He smoothed John Frieda Frizz Ease serum on to the top and sides of the hairstyle and then spritzed John Frieda on the tail.



Details of the collection? Well, how about a smidge of S & M, futuristic athletic wear, a touch of chic femininity and laced up goddess. Remaked one reviewer, "There's a lot of stuff going on." Cutouts, lace-ups, harnesses, gadgets, mesh inserts -yes, all part of the show, yet wielded in such a way as to blend in a cohesive collection depicting a daring, modern woman (yet with girlish ponytail in tow). Of course, no Gucci collection would be complete without signature wide-rimmed shades.


image: elle, wwd, style

Bobbi Brown Limited Edition Pink Ribbon Collection

As we begin the month of October, many of us begin to feel the glad tidings of cool weather, fall fashions, richer color in cosmetics and for the last few years now, the awareness of how important it is to support continued research and funding for treating, and ultimately curing breast cancer. I've seen more honoring, fundraising, sponsoring, and attention in the beauty and blogging communities this year than ever before. It's quite wonderful!

Just based on the numbers of emails I have still to read in my inbox (literally, there are 100's), beauty industry companies all over the globe are drawing awareness through special offers, limited edition collections and products, fun interactive contests and much more. Bobbi Brown Cosmetics has joined to lend their support as well.

PINK RIBBON COLLECTION - $40 (Free Shipping)
A beautiful limited-edition lip set featuring an exclusive new shade, Blush Pink Creamy Lip Color and a limited-edition Pink Crystal Glitter Lip Balm, in support of Breast Cancer Awareness month. This item ships for free all month (thru 10/31/09), as Bobbi's thank you for your support.

Please visit Bobbi Brown online to learn more about the Limited Edition Pink Collection and help support Breast Cancer Awareness.

And ... If you've not yet checked out my giveaway opportunity above for
support of Cancer Research, please do. By donating $20 or more to my dear
friend's walkathon event, you'll receive an entry for an absolutely
fantastic box of beauty products from lots and lots of wonderful
cosmetic, skincare, haircare and fragrance brands! It's a beauty lover's
dream come true, and your kind deed will go a long way in helping honor the
memory of my friend's mother, who lost her battle with cancer 10 years ago this
year. Thank you so much - xo!

Beauty Steals and Deals

Lots of nice deals, gifts with purchase, steals and bargains going on this week, my angels. Here's a look.






SAKS

Receive a metallic Stephanie Johnson bag filled with beauty samples with ny $75 beauty purchase. Checkout saks.com for more information on sample contents.

Enter code: MEGAWATT at checkout. Offer good thru 10/4/09.





SPALOOK

Exclusive! Ultimate Dry Skin Kit - No Code Needed.

Get your FREE 9-piece dry skin kit with your spalook purchase of $90 or more! (A $72 Value)
Kit Includes:

Avene Gentle Toner
Thalgo Exceptional Eyes
Phytomer Smoothing and Reviving Eye Mask
Avene Soothing Hydrating Serum
Avene Rich Compensating Cream
Kinerase Pro+Therapy Ultra Hydrating Repair Mask
Caudalie Day Perfecting Cream SPF15
Bioelements Moisture Positive Cleanser
Avene Thermal Spring Water



LANCOME

Deluxe sample collection of Lancome eye makeup products with any purchase of $45 or more at Lancome online. Enter promo code: EYEWISH2

OR

Bi-Facil Double Action Makeup Remover and Creme Radiance Clarifying Cleanser samples with any online purchase of $35 or more. Enter promo code: RADIANCE





NORDSTROM Lancome Beauty Gift

Take home this six-piece collection of indispensable beauty portables in a stylish Lancôme cosmetics bag:

Définicils High Definition Mascara in Black (0.09 oz.)
Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover (1.7 oz.)
Rénergie Microlift R.A.R.E.™ Superior Lifting Cream SPF 15 Sunscreen (0.5 oz.)
Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate (0.5 oz.)
Color Design Lipcolor in Ooh La La! (0.14 oz.)
Color Design Sensational Effects Eyeshadow Quad in Creme Lustre, Visionary, Luxe Grey and Statuesque (0.05 oz.).

A $120 value—yours with any $39.50 Lancôme purchase at Nordstrom Beauty.




JUARA Skincare

Giving you a free deluxe travel size Taramind Tea Hydrating Toner with any JUARA skincare purchase, through 10/22/09 or while supplies last.



THE BODY SHOP

Buy 2 Get 1 Free on Skin Care - (Sept. 21 - Oct. 18)
25% Off Skin Care Kits - (Sept. 21 - Oct. 18)
Free Shipping on All Orders Over $60 - (Sept. 21 - Oct. 18)
Free Coconut Body Scrub with $20 Purchase - (Oct. 1)
Free Shipping on all Orders Over $15 - (Oct. 12)

REVIEW: Per-fekt Eye Perfection Gel

Selected as a Cosmetic & Personal Care (CPC) Packaging 2009 Editor's Choice Award Winner, Per-fekt's Eye Perfection Gel is winning women over too with its unique applicator tip and multi-function formula.

Each year, CPC Packaging reviews hundreds of product launches from the previous year and this year Per-fékt Eye Perfection Gel was named for the best outstanding package. The product features an exclusive palladium tip applicator that instantly cools skin and reduces puffiness upon application. This revolutionary, multi-functional skin-perfector, eye treatment and moisturizer-in-one is formulated especially for the delicate eye area and helps smooth away the appearance of puffy, tired-looking eyes, under eye shadows, fine lines and wrinkles, while also hydrating the skin. Peptides help stimulate the synthesis of collagen; ceramides and hyaluronic microspheres hydrate and firm the skin; cucumber extract helps relieve puffiness; and alpha lipoic acid with vitamins A & E fight aging.

Per-fekt Eye Perfection Gel is a multi-tasking, modern gel-mousse that glides on effortlessly to instantly leave the eye area with a smooth, airbrushed finish - perfect alone or a fantastic primer for eyeshadow. This multi-tasking formula contains a light-reflecting tint that brightens tired-looking eyes, and it's free of oil, talc, wax, fragrance, and parabens.

So here's my experience: The silver (palladium) tip is excellent at providing a cooling sensation to tired, puffy morning eyes. In combination with the cucumber extract, it definitely provides a soothing experience for the delicate undereye area - no question. Additionally, I'm actually quite impressed, though not surprised, with the texture and finish this creamy-powdery-gel-mousse product provides. If you've tried Per-fekt Skin Perfection Gel (their version of a facial primer), the eye gel is very much like it in feel and finish. Per-fekt recommends applying two layers of the gel allowing about 30 seconds drying time between applications for best lifting, lightening and smoothing results. Very similar to a primer, the lines around my eyes are less noticeable and my undereye area is definitely left with a "softened" appearance. Would I use this alone without concealer? No. I mean, maybe on a Saturday or Sunday running errands, but for work days or nights out I definitely need the extra coverage concealer provides. I have one of the tinted shades ("Bright," the lightest of the three shades as I am very fair), but it blends so well into skin I don't notice much in way of coverage. The gel leaves the area feeling soft and makeup/concealer application is easier when used as a primer. I also appreciate the skincare factor the gel gives, though I'm not advocating for ridding your drawers and bags of night time eye treatments and/or moisturizers.

So nice is the feel and appearance this product gives that I've used it as a primer/line fill/pore reducer for my forehead and the area on either side of my nose as well. Though the price of this little gem does not lend itself for all-over coverage (it's a tiny tube, only .3 oz of product), it could easily be used as a facial primer with great results.

Per-fekt Eye Perfection Gel is available in four varieties - Awake (colorless), Bright (sheer, light neutral), Refreshed (sheer, medium beige) and Vibrant (warm tan for olive or darker skins); and retails for $45. Per-fekt brand beauty products are available at Per-fekt Beauty online, Sephora (in-store and online), Henri Bendel, Takashimaya, HSN and Fred Segal.

Three Custom Color Specialists Bestows Loving Gift upon Their Customers

Wow! Trae and the sweet angels at Three Custom Color Specialists are showing their customers some huge love this week. In a note to customers, 3C expressed their gratitude to customers who have had to battle what they've described as poor website functioning over the past few months.

"As many of you know, over the last few months our site has been experiencing
periodic trouble – timing out, not displaying images properly, running painfully
slow, etc. We have been working very hard with our server to get these problems
ironed out, but it has been slow going. We have now been assured that our site
is running smoothly and will it continue to do so moving forward.
We can
only imagine how frustrating it has been for so many of you, and while we have
done our best to help you personally over the phone and by email, we realize
that in certain cases, our help was only a small consolation after wrestling
with our uncooperative website. We are so grateful for your continued support of
our brand, and now that the site is up and running properly, we wanted to thank
you and treat you to a special offer."

Mmmmm ... and some sweet offer it is. Enjoy 40% off sitewide for 3 days, starting today (thru midnight Oct. 1). This is a great time to stock up on your Ready to Wear and Custom favorites or to try something new that you’ve been curious about! Already know what I'm picking, dying to try their new for fall Opaline Creme Eye Definer in that lapis shade, Aurora. Oh, oh, oh ... so excited!

Enter code: LOVE at checkout.

Fantastic! Thanks, guys (and gal), this is just too delicious an offer to pass up. Happy shopping, everyone. xo

Aveda Gives a Hand to Breast Cancer Research

As has been Aveda's tradition since 2004, this year Aveda is again raising funds for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) by selling their limited edition, 150ml/5oz tube (a 19% increase in size with a 7% savings for guests) of Hand Relief.

Aveda's hand cream is an incredibly rich moisture therapy. It soothes
dry hands, leaving them noticeably softer and smoother. Hydrating plant
emollients, humectants, exfoliating fruit acids and anti-oxidants—including
vitamins A and E—help diminish signs of aging and provide optimal relief. It has
a lovely fresh scent.

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation is a nonprofit organization founded in 1993 by Evelyn H. Lauder and dedicated to funding clinical and genetic research on breast cancer at medical institutions across the globe. During the month of October, Aveda will donate $4 from the sale of each Breast Cancer Awareness Hand Relief to the BCRF to help advance the understanding of environmental links to breast cancer.

Help a very worthy cause and enjoy wonderful hand care simultaneously. BCA limited edition Hand Relief will retail for $21 and will be available for purchase through the month of October at Aveda online and through their salons, spas and institutes.

New from NARS: Eyeliner Stylo

NARS has introduced Eyeliner Stylo, a super-fine precision tip liquid eyeliner that allows for maximum control during application. The unique tip ensures a precise, even line with just one stroke. I'm drooling at the promo image. Regular readers will know I'm a huge fan of Lancome's Artliner eyeliner pens and haven't found anything close to its brilliance in application. I don't know, this just may give them a run for the money. I know I'll be trying them for sure.



The waterproof, quick-drying formula delivers a high dose of pigment for optimum coverage and intense color.

High pigment formula provides optimum coverage and intense color
Long-wearing, quick-dry formula shapes and defines eyes - lasts all day
Super-fine precision tip ensures an even line - thick or thin

NARS new Eyeliner Stylos come in three shades, Blue Bayou (that's the one I'll be buying first), Nuits Blanches (a shiny black), and Nabucco (a chocolate brown), each retails for $27. They are available exclusively at NARS Cosmetics online.

Ok, gotta go put my face on and get to work ... have a beautiful day, lovelies! xo

Field Notes from Paris, a New Fragrance by Ineke

Ineke just returned from Paris where she launched Field Notes from Paris in Florence, Amsterdam and London. The fragrance is now available at Takashimaya in the USA and through Ineke's website online. Samples of the collection for current online customers will be available in October. With a collection of notes that promises to be nothing short of scrumptious, Field Notes from Paris is the very essence of the smells of fall.

Top Notes: Coriander Seed, Orange Flower, Bergamot

Middle Notes: Tobacco Flower and Leaf, Patchouli, Cedarwood

Base Notes: Tonka Bean, Leather, Beeswax and Vanille

Field Notes from Paris is available in Ineke's sophisticated, elegant glass bottle; 2.5 oz retails for $88.

Bottega Veneta Spring 2010 RTW

"Architectual," "organic," "sculptural," "the most beautiful collection shown yet this season," these are all words used to describe Bottega Veneta's Spring 2010 easy, lively collection. Tomas Maier for Bottega Veneta decided upon a collection of sheer individualistic playfulness completely conscious of the female body as the core inspiration for Spring 2010. "I think of it as a collaboration with women," he said. "The clothes are meant to be a backdrop, a blank canvas, so the wearer can play with color and accessories to change the look and make it her own." The concept of the neutral background came when he saw a group of children being dropped off at a karate class in Florida, where he lives: "I liked the look of the canvas, and that became my color card—white, cream, straw. And the idea of the soft belt."

White cotton, edged in cream, made up milkmaid dresses with slashed or funnel necklines and wraparound blouses. Panelled white bra tops came under roomy jersey vests and white silk all-in-ones were accessorised with a purple or yellow scarf thrown around the neck and totes and espadrilles made of what looked like woven raffia but were in fact nappa leather.

High wedge sandals with woven espadrille soles, delicate string macramé slingbacks, statement jewelry, and an amazing translation of the house leather intrecciato bag into something resembling a soft straw basket. The collection epitomzed the season's feeling for sport, pale color, and the textured aesthetics of humble materials with a flair for sophistication. Neural colors were the staple of the clothing, and the few colors that were showcased included that fashion forward mustardy yellow, deep red and vibrant purple that we've seen throughout the fall and spring shows next couple of seasons. Three fabulous evening dresses in boldly colored iridescent material (polyester ... shhhhh) finished the show for a drool-worthy experience in the city of Milan.

Hair for the show was created by Guido Palau and makeup with those fantastic purple lips and ultra-feminine allure was the creative genius of makeup artist Pat McGrath. Love that beauty look. Soft, feminine face with richly colored lips, a true compliment to the nature of the Bottega Veneta collection itself.

images: style, elle

Fall's Obsession-Worthy Nail Colours by Chanel

Brilliance to your fingertips with must-have colours from the runways of Paris. Chanel's top five Le Vernis Nail Colours for fall:

Gondola - a richly shimmering maroon

Dragon - a glamorous true red

Vendetta - a deep glistening aubergine

Blue Satin - a lustrous midnight blue

Cosmic Violine - a warm glittering plum

Chanel Le Vernis comes in a treasure chest shades for every season, each retails for $23. For more information, please visit Chanel online or at your favorite beauty counter.

Allure Virtual Store's Best of Beauty Sweepstakes

Win a huge suitcase full of Allure's Best of Beauty picks!

I like to pass along these little gems when I find them. This one sounds fantastic. Enter for a chance to win the mother of all goodie bags. Each year, at Allure's Best of Beauty party in New York City, they give their VIP guests a massive suitcase packed with past and present winners plus new favorites – more than 100 products in all.

Starting October 1st, enter for your chance to score this year's suitcase, valued at $3,330!

Click HERE to enter.

Discover Allure's Best of Beauty 2009 online now. There are 189 picks in makeup, skincare, haircare, body care, nails, natural wonders (yea!), men's stuff, best splurges and more.

Fall 2009: An Afternoon of Beauty with Olivia Chantecaille

If you're in New York this Friday, treat yourself to an afternoon of beauty with Olivia Chantecaille.

BERGDORF GOODMAN
Fri., 10/2/09
3:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Products used on Olivia Chantecaille for the look above:

Sylvie Personal Collection, Fall 2009

Chic and sophisticated, the Sylvie Personal Collection embodies today’s strong, modern woman. Sparked by the energy and excitement of the city, this new collection speaks to women who are active, engaged and stylish—women who find beauty in a confident, elegant look.

The Sylvie Personal Collection was inspired by Chantecaille founder, Sylvie Chantecaille, and is thoroughly contemporary in its fashion-forward palette and sleek, brand-new gunmetal packaging. This simple, streamlined look reflects an up-to-date femininity—a simple, authentic statement that exudes smart, urban cool. A complete collection for face, eyes and lips, re-imagined for Fall.

Sylvie’s Personal Palette
A new, square, super-stylized compact contains a complete palette for eyes and cheeks. Each of the four colors is intricately embossed in the shape of the rose, the symbol of Chantecaille. Eyes are the focus of Fall’s face, and three deep tones include two Lasting Eyeshades in a rich plum brown and a matte beige, both of which can be applied wet or dry. A Shine Eyeshade in shimmery fawn is an opulent highlight and can be easily blended in the crease of the eye for added sparkle. A Perfect Blush in a mediumtoned rose for cheeks comes in an ultra-fine highly adherent formula for a smooth, flawless complexion. All delivered in one chic, metalized pouch, it creates a rich and elegant vision for fall. Price $72

Luminous Eye Liner in Viola
An intense, long-wearing liquid eyeliner in plum with brown overtones. A unique formula rich in pearls and pigments is easily applied with the brush applicator to deliver a high-glamour look. Price $22












Le Stylo in Dark Brown
A dramatic, long-lasting liquid liner in an innovative marker form. Perfect for graphically defining eyes with a highly precise line of rich, dark brown. Price $26











Lip Chic in Heirloom
New, deep berry tone that anchors Fall’s sophisticated face. The newest addition to Chantecaille’s Lip Chic collection, a highly emollient formula that offers the even coverage of a lipstick with the high shine and plumping effects of a gloss. Added collagen give lips a boost, leaving them fuller and decidedly more youthful in appearance, with out any irritation. Price $30

To RSVP and schedule your appointment for an afternoon of beauty with Chantecaille at Bergdorf Goodman, please call 212.872.2725.

collection & images updated: 9/30/09

REVIEW: Erno Laszlo Brightening Skincare Treatments

Gotta tell you about the potent effects of Erno Laszlo's brightening products.

Having never tried any of the brand's products before, I was interested to see what this legendary skincare brand founded in 1927 by Hungarian dermatologist Dr. Erno Laszlo had to offer in way of results in the modern world. One of my biggest skincare issues isn't on my face; it's on my hands. For the past three years or so I've noticed pigmented sun spots popping up in increasing quantities on my hands, well, my left hand in particular. This is the hand most in the path of direct sunlight as I tend to rest it on top my steering wheel when traveling in my car. So when I saw Erno Laszlo had a Brightening Concentrate Pen, I knew that's the product I wanted to try. My impression of this product in a word? Fantastic! In two words? Powerfully Effective!

SPOT LIGHT Brightening Concentrate Pen - $46
It's a brightening pen for all skin types. The concentrate restores skin's healthy glow with a non-hydroquinone targeted treatment featuring a cocktail of brightening ingredients. Retinol, in pure, active vitamin A, accelerates cell turnover while sepiwhite, a new lipo amino acid, significantly fades dark spots and inhibits melanin production. I saw my spots start to fade in as little as two weeks, and after using the pen on my hands for about a month, some of the spots have completely vanished. It's one of those experiences where you go to sleep one night, wake up in the morning, look at your spots and think, "Wow ... is this really working?" Then a couple of weeks later repeat the check and say, "Yeah, this really IS working ... cool beans!" I'm shocked at how well this treatment works.


C-BRIGHT Essence - $68
A brightening lotion for all skin types. The lightweight daytime lotion with brightening benefits features stabilized vitamin C and Japanese knotweed concentrate. The potent ingredients are said to diminish dark spots and combat free radicals for a more even tone and overall radiance. In combination with the concentrated formula of the pen, the results are even more revealing. I enjoy using the lotion on my face as a daytime moisturizer as well, it's light creamy formula absorbs instantly into skin.

My next foray into the world of Erno Laszlo skincare will be to try his iconic Sea Mud Facial Soap. This is a black bar, which is 97% natural that cleans deeply without stripping natural sebum. It is said to be excellent for exfoliating and softening skin texture.

In general, Dr. Laszlo's cleansing products have long been considered one of the best cleansing systems available. It was Erno Laszlo, MD that developed the "Water-Wash Technique". The technique basically entails splashing the face with comfortbly-hot water, which offers these benefits:

deeply cleanses skin
exfoliates dead skin cells
flushes out toxins
strengthens, softens and plumps skin
stimulates collagen production, and
enhances the absorption of moisturizer

Check out Erno Laszlo online for other products designed specifically for your unique skin type and issues. Get your own Laszlo prescribed skincare ritual by filling out the LaszloMatic questionnaire. You can even speak with a professional skincare specialist to ask questions about your skin type, issues or concerns. Looking forward to bringing you more news.