For the Love of Beauty ... with a ♥ for cosmetics, skincare, fragrance, haircare & fashion

Day of Beauty with ShopNBC in Time for Holidays

2011-10-07T15:59:00.000-05:00

Getting their groove on in time for the holidays, ShopNBC.com announces a full day of beauty, Saturday, October 8th. As usual, they've lined up some gorgeous high-end and moderately priced treats so every girl can take advantage. Prep your beauty routine for holiday glamour with the latest, colors, trends and skincare must-haves for cool weather. Here's what you can expect to find:

NYX HAUTE JERSEY LEOPARD COUTURE COLOR PALETTE $25
Everybody's new favorite cosmetic brand (well, all of a sudden they're everywhere, and with good cauase) introduces their ode to "Jerseylicious divas" everywhere with this fun color palette. The perfect palette to turn anyone into a bronzed goddess! As seen on Style Network's Jerseylicious. An all-in-one set that features all you need to get that sun-kissed faux glow. You'll find 24 vibrant eye shadows in matte and shimmery hues are displayed on one side.

The opposite side consists of four toasty bronzers, two luscious micro mega shine lip glosses and two rosy blushes. To complete the kit is a double-sided mirror which separates the two color palettes. For the woman on-the-go or a professional makeup artist at a shoot, the Haute Jersey kit is an accessible palette. The kit is draped with a wild leopard pattern in gold and black, paying homage to savvy fashionistas everywhere. Built-in mirror to admire your new look and re-touch on the go! All-in-one. Travel friendly.

SET INCLUDES:24 Eye Shadows
4 Applicators
Multi-Color Bronzer
3 Bronzers
2 Lip Glosses
2 Blushes

BELLECORE BABY BELLE BODY BUFFER $299
Developed by physicians and athletes and designed by MIT and Harvard engineers. Body buffers exfoliate the skin with the appearance of smoother skin possible in just one use. Body buffing helps improve the appearance of the skin. Random orbital oscillation massage action helps improve the appearance of the skin and soothe the body. Massage action helps warm up and soothe muscles before and after exercise. Body buffing is like a massage and helps promote a calm soothing feeling to help combat a stress filled day.

SET INCLUDES:Baby Belle Buffer Device
Travel Pouch
Two Terry Cloth Bonnets
Apres Contouring Creme - 2 oz
Manual
Power Cord

RODIAL GLAMTOX SERUM SALE $57.64 (retail $75)
I've had the good fortune to try this beautiful treatment, and I declare it is a delight to the senses and wonderfully effective. It's much lighter than one might expect from a serum being almost elixir-like rather than like a gel or cream. It is loaded with good for us ingredients. Glamtox serum contains wheatgerm, macadamia and shea butter to improve skin's natural barrier function against water loss, and help replenish dry, mature skin and rough patches. It also contains Vitamin C to brighten the complexion and to help improve the look of age spots and sun spots. My favorite of all the ingredients? Punica granatum. Yes, that's right, my friends. This little gem blends pomegranate seed extract right into the liquid. Readers know this is my tried and true anti-aging, firming ingredient of choice. What's more, collagen peptides and hyaluronic acid help to plump up the natural collagen while a complex of natural oils nourish the skin. As stated in the intro, the serum offers a multi-sensory experience through its blend of oils and special ingredients.

RODIAL GLAMOXY SNAKE SERUM PEN SALE $71.86 (retail $95)
The day of beauty will also feature Rodial's famous snake serum in pen version at an incredible price. This product contains dipeptides to help improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The massaging action of tri-roller balls helps ease application around the forehead, eye and mouth areas. Contains the Snake Venom Peptide Synake to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

HOW TO USE:
Click to dispense product and roll directly onto clean skin, targeting areas around the forehead eyes and mouth. Massage with circular motions until product is absorbed. Reapply throughout the day to refresh results.

LOTUS MASCARA DUO $25
Among the presentations of the day, ShopNBC will be premiering products from the brand Lotus Cosmetics. One item to take notice of is Lotus' 100% Natural Mascara. ShopNBC will feature the mascara in a duo offer. In addition to the company's report that the mascara is 100% natural, it's also water resistant, smudge proof, and said to condition eyelashes (combines coffee extract with rice protein and sunflower oil), thicken and straighten eyelashes, and add volume to lashes. What it doesn't contain is parabens, petro-chemicals, phthalates, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, or synthetic dyes. Nice!

SKIN & CO BEAUTY BY SABATINO SKINCARE AND BODY
Also making its ShopNBC debut, Skin & Co. brings us a delightful range of facial and body products fresh from the truffle farms of Italy and the Sabatino family (famous for their truffle food products). Skin & Co Beauty features fresh-harvested, active extracts of rosemary, mint, almond, olive oil, lavender, Sicilian orange and their signature ingredient - truffle. You'll find their products being offered at special debut pricing during their beauty day presentation.

You'll want to tune in tomorrow when you can. As for me, I'm looking forward to the tutorial presentations and learning from the special guests and hosts as much as I am eager to get my hands on some new products for cooler weather. Hope you'll enjoy along with me! xo

ShopNBC.com Day of Beauty: Sat., October 8, 2011

p.s. -- Take a look at their sneak peek now online at ShopNBC.com. Special pricing is already featured. Shhhhh grab what you want before items show with a chance of selling out tomorrow.

ftlob Hiatus

2011-10-07T13:51:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the long hiatus, my loves. And even as I write this, I am away sitting for my adorable little nephews while my sis enjoys a New York trip with her hubs. Long story short, I've been without proper internet connection for over a month and trying to sort it all out. Add in an all of a sudden crazy personal life and busy work schedule and you get -- no time for the love of beauty. The horror, you say? Always time for beauty ... indeed! Coming back slowly as I've missed my own ramblings. (Yes, we bloggers know we do this for ourselves and if others get a little goodness out of what we write, it's a nice extra).

p.s. -- Sis just called frantic about whether her child was home with me as school is calling her in New York wondering why the boy didn't show for school today. Yes! Yes, dad gummit! Evil auntie kept the pre-schooler home today to enjoy the visit. Shoot me. lol. Guess it's good the school calls to check on the lad, however not enjoying the wrath fired upon me by my sister.

xo

MINTBOX: Smashbox on Sale + Cash Back!

2011-07-03T07:30:00.000-05:00

Celebrate the July 4th weekend with a grand little spree from Smashbox! This weekend and until 7/4 only enjoy up to 25% off your favorite Smashbox items, including their new products. You have to be a Mintbox member to take advantage of the deal, so be sure to accept your invitation (link at bottom of post) to access the Smashbox offer and many, many others.

Roxy's Picks

Second Skin Concealer - This is my personal concealer of choice right now. I've been using it for about six months and am enjoying the fact that I apply it once in the morning and it stays put all day. Great feature (and unique when it really works) for a concealer. Professional-level coverage that’s customizable, comfortable and weightless. This high-performance formula conceals stubborn imperfections (even tattoos), while keeping complexions natural-looking with encapsulated pigment technology that re-creates the radiance of your own skin. Plus, it’s waterproof for a flawless look all day. Available in four easy to blend shades and retails for $29 a tube.

Full Exposure Mascara - Inspired by the on-set technique of layering a lengthening fiber mascara over a volumizing formula, the new studio-tested mascara exposes your longest, fullest lashes. No clumps, no flakes. Just maximum-impact, scene-stealing lashes. $19

• 104% increase in lash volume

• 32% increase in lash length

• 34-degree increase in lash curl

Video: Watch Pro Makeup Artist Lori Taylor bring this sexy mascara to life

Limitless Lip Stain & Color Seal Balm - It’s a lip revelation! On one side of this innovative, two-in-one product: a feather-resistant stain that won’t budge for 8 hours. On the other: a very emollient balm that can be worn alone or over the stain for a lustrous touch. The vibrant tint of color is designed to mimic the look of photo gels on set in the famous Smashbox studios. $23

Video: Watch Pro Lead Artist Lori Taylor create a thoroughly modern look highlighted by a bright coral lip

Enjoying the eye candy? See these and more great Smashbox delicacies via Mintbox this weekend for great value and cash back. You must be a Mintbox member to shop their great deals so let this be a 4th of July little gift to yourself (don't worry membership is free!).

Please Give Me Mintbox Access!

Your personal invitation

source/images: Smashbox; Mintbox

Make Way, Kiddies, for the Magical World of Disney Fragrance

2011-07-02T07:15:00.001-05:00

Why not? Over the years, Disney has made its way into the hearts of every red-blooded American boy and girl in the world. So why not secure their spot in the hearts of every beauty and/or fragrance addicted man and woman in the world too, right?

Disney isn't proposing we blindly accept their bid into the world of fragrance and beauty by name alone, either. They loaded substance and, dare I say it, magic, into their new creation. My co-workers (some with highly discriminating taste I might add) and I are loving these new items. Seriously, I just washed my hands with the Liquid Hand Soap and am having to stop every few seconds as I write this post to breathe in the scent still present on my hands. More on that in a minute, though.

The first scent in a new line of exclusive, high-end fragrance products arrived in Disney Stores nationwide the first week of June. Inspired by Disney’s most timeless and beloved characters and stories, the scents were created in conjunction with some of the world’s leading fragrance houses, perfumers and an award-winning design team. Each promises to capture the Disney magic in a new way. Three new fragrances will be released throughout the year starting with Imagination (launched in June) followed by Magic in July and ending with Pixie Dust in the fall.

"The power of fragrance is truly magical – it can evoke memories and convey dreams and aspirations. Disney's rich heritage and most beloved characters also have that same allure", says Jim Fielding, President of Disney Stores Worldwide. "With the launch of Disney Store's own fragrance collection, we're touching all of the senses for the first time in a uniquely Disney way."

As hinted above I had the distinct pleasure of getting my hands on some of these items early on. Imagination, the signature fragrance used throughout the newly designed Disney Store, is described as an enchanted forest of sequoia trees, cool moss and green leaves. Inspired by the trees that line the route of the magical path within the new stores, the fragrance gives the sense of being in an enchanted forest. It's a timeless scent inspired by nature that instills a feeling of natural calm, allowing the imagination to soar.

My personal take on Imagination is that it reminds me lovingly of Dolce + Gabbana's Light Blue and Bond No. 9's Scent of Peace. Fans of those scents will want to bask in the aromas of Imagination. The candle fills the room with its pleasingly fresh, relaxing scent. The liquid soap and the body lotion are both long-wearing in scent, though I have to say the packaging of these two items leaves a bit to be desired (a bit cheap looking ... shhhhh it doesn't matter, it's what's inside that counts!).

Imagination products are available as home fragrances, including candles and room scents, and in the liquid hand soap and body lotion. They are available in Disney Store locations nationwide as of June 2011 and are moderately priced between $12.50 and $19.50. Let me tell you, the Imagination candle alone is well worth this gorgeous scent at under $20 for approximately 50 hours of burn time! Be sure to experience the fragrance next time you're shopping Disney Stores.

A peek at what's to come ...

Magic, an unforgettable blend of icy blue mint, rich chocolate and invigorating sea spray, epitomizes the adventure of Disney and all that is Mickey Mouse. Along with Imagination, its inspiration comes from the outside world to give it a refreshing sense of nature. Magic is the freedom of children playing outdoors; it's a breeze of fresh, cool, minty air, green grass, clean woods and a surprise of chocolate. Magic home fragrances, candles and room scents will launch in stores in July 2011.

Pixie Dust, a shimmering scent of citrus sorbet, candied fruits and summer rain, is the fragrance inspired by Tinker Bell. It's the fragrance one could imagine floating through the air as Tinker Bell showers the earth with her Pixie Dust, causing nature to blossom. Pixie Dust captures Tinker Bell's personality perfectly – it charms with a shimmering sweetness yet it also has a subtle hint of sassiness that we love about this beloved Disney character. Pixie Dust comes as a range of personal products including Eau de Toilette, Body Mist and Body Lotion, available in all Disney Store locations in Fall 2011. Gift sets with body glitter, a roll on Eau de Toilette and lip gloss will also be available.

For more information or to purchase these delicious products, please visit Disney Stores nationwide or contact them by telephone at (866) 902-2798.

images: Disney / photo credit: Stuart Ramson

The Well Defined Eye via Clarisonic Opal x Tarte Cosmetics

2011-07-01T17:35:00.000-05:00

It makes a statement when Clarisonic partners with a beauty brand to produce a beauty bundle. I mean, they already have their own skincare products that are perfectly compatible with the cleansing and treatment tools they manufacture. So why partner with a brand outside?

Answer: Because they know their customers demand the highest possible quality results! So when you see Clarisonic bundling with say Philosophy's Purity Made Simple Cleanser, it makes sense. And when Clarisonic decided they wanted to extend their presence in the beauty market with their Opal Sonic Infusion System, they went to whom? Tarte Cosmetics!

Here's why:
Clarisonic wants to give skincare aficionados the ultimate set for creating a sultry, defined and flawless eye. The Opal Sonic infuses serums into the skin more effectively than manual application. As the device is moved in small circles around the eye area, its soft applicator tip delivers products with more than 7,500 gentle micro-massages per minute. Serums and creams are absorbed more deeply and evenly, enhancing their ability to promote healthy, hydrated, and younger-looking skin.

Exclusively available now at Sephora, the new, limited edition set pairs the sonic device that with a selection of skinvigorating™ products from Tarte. The Opal gently infuses Anti-Aging Sea Serum beneath the skin’s surface, instantly hydrating, smoothing and brightening the eye area in just one minute. Follow with Tarte's pioneering products made with high-performance naturals. Tarte's Lifted Natural Eye Primer with Firmitol gives the effect of younger, smoother eyes while acting as a base that locks shadow in place all day and boosts pigment payoff. With a fully refreshed eye area, follow your eye treatment with these other healthy, nourishing cosmetics from Tarte. Check around ... (seriously, google, check beauty reviews, other stores, etc.) you'll see the Tarte products in this set are truly in a class all their own in terms of their natural, nourishing ingredients and what they offer in way of enhancing what you already have to create the appearance of beautiful, enviable, head-turning eyes.

This set contains:

Opal Sonic Infuser

1.7 oz Anti-Aging Sea Serum

2 Replacement Applicator Tips

Universal Voltage Charger

Wristlet Carrying Case

0.24 oz Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes! Mascara in Black

0.003 oz Tarte EmphasEYES™ Aqua-Gel Eyeliner in Black

0.08 oz Tarte Lifted™ Natural Eye Primer with Firmitol™

Sounds fantastic! Though seemingly pricey at first glance, this is actually quite reasonable for this set of products and tools (compare Opal elsewhere). The Opal Sonic Infusion System With Tarte Limited Edition Set is available only at Sephora and retails for $185.

Pssst -> Don't forget to do all your online shopping (including Sephora) through Mintbox for exclusive discounts, % off purchases AND cash back options. You'll seriously be surprised at all the brands and tremendous deals you'll find there. Access your Mintbox invitation here!

Chris Benz x Lancome Limited Edition GWP for Saks

2011-06-15T17:23:00.001-05:00

It's another stellar collab effort between prestige beauty company Lancôme and American fashion designer Chriz Benz. This time he's partnered with the brand for a sweet little limited edition gift with purchase, which will be sold exclusively through Saks Fifth Avenue from June 14 - June 25.

Beauty fanatics will remember Benz's wildly popular Chris & Tell lippie from Lancôme's Pout-a-Porter designer lip collection last Spring. We all raced to get our hands on one. The celebrated designer and frequent Lancôme collaborator is loved by celebrities like Jessica Szohr, Susan Sarandon, Elettra Wiedemann and Eva Amurri and now he’s created a tote solely for Lancôme customers.

Customers will receive the complimentary Chris Benz-designed tote with any $60 purchase, up to a $119 value. Printed with a chic, stylized silhouette, the exclusive design makes the perfect summer accessory. And although receiving the tote would certainly be gift enough, Lancôme has packed the tote with must have products (Définicils Precious Cells Mascara and Absolue Hand), you have the option to select your moisturizer (Absolue Premium BX or Absolue Precious Cells) and your pink (L’Absolu Rouge in Pink Sapphire, Juicy Tubes in Moulin Rose & Blush Subtil in Rose Fresque) or coral (L’Absolu Rouge in Fleur Impressioniste , Juicy Tubes in Coral Rush & Blush Subtil in Shimmer Coral Sunset) makeup trio to tote inside the Benz bag.

To celebrate the collaboration, Chris Benz will make a personal appearance at Saks Fifth Avenue in New York City on June 23rd from 5 -7 p.m. (ET), toasting the fashion-forward partnership.

Ummmm ... can you say, "Run! Don't walk for this particular GWP event!" ? Yes, well, do so. Fair warning, I'm posting this for you, then quickly clicking over the Saks to take advantage of this myself. It's only while supplies last. Enjoy! xo

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MINTBOX: New! Sephora Event

2011-06-10T12:07:00.000-05:00

So, if you read me yesterday you know I'm newly addicted to a fab little site called Mintbox. It's invitation only (don't worry, your invitation is below) and the sales and deals from the best of "yumminess" brands are located there.

Today begins a new event for Sephora. Now, we all know Sephora. Well, those of us addicted to beauty do, right? Here's what you may not know. Sephora's name comes from a combination of "Sephos", Greek for beauty, and the Greek form of "Tzipporah", which means bird. That explains why goddesses everywhere flock to the wonderland that is Sephora for all their beauty needs. Shop all of Sephora! Mintbox editor picks appear below but you can purchase whatever you want of Sephora through Mintbox.

Featuring over 200 classic and emerging brands across all categories including skincare, fragrance, bath & body, smilecare, and haircare, in addition to their own private label, Sephora guarantees to keep you properly primped and preened whatever your style may be.

Mintbox's Sephora event features tempting cash back options, fabulous multi-sample packs (one from Lancome is delicious) and combinations of both. There are lots of other fantastic stores (beauty, fashion, home decor, children's wear, etc.) with deals abundantly available there now too. You can even donate your cash back to charities Mintbox has partnered with if you like that idea. But you can't get these deals and options anywhere other than Mintbox. So what are you waiting for? I wouldn't steer you wrong or waste your precious minutes if this wasn't truly swoon-worthy. Your invitation appears below. Enjoy! xo

Invitation to Mintbox! I Want Access!

source/images: Mintbox

MINTBOX FEATURE SALE: It's All About NARS

2011-06-09T18:54:00.000-05:00

So my newest obsession has become Mintbox! If you're not familiar, you'll want to acquaint yourself quick like. Mintbox features % off, cash back and other exclusive deals on brands we all love and covet. Think Sephora, Bluefly, Crate & Barrel, Nordstrom, Bliss, Barnes & Noble, Bloomies, Space.NK, Shopbop.com, Rebecca Minkoff, Zappos ... the list goes on and on.

Today I want to show you their NARS feature. As if the image above isn't enough to entice any beauty addict not just a NARS fan, consider the fantabulous notion that you can buy with 12% off and 8% cash back! Oh, and um FREE SHIPPING. Are you kidding me?

Sophisticated, witty, and effortlessly seductive, NARS embraces your individuality providing you with rich colors and luxurious textures and confidence to express yourself. It is an invitation to make a statement and be who you want to be: YOU. ~ NARS

The NARS feature runs through 6/13/11.

I've been playing around on Mintbox all afternoon and I tell you I am obsessed now. Now, here's the catch. You have to be a member. Here's the best part of that. It's free to join. You'll need the special Mintbox codes to take advantage of their wonderful deals, so sign up now (link below) to join. Go ahead and shop till your heart's delight! xo

Invitation to Mintbox! I Want Access!

source/images: Mintbox

Fall 2011: Too Faced Midnight in the Garden of Glamour

2011-06-04T07:12:00.001-05:00

Exclusive only to Too Faced for the entire month of June, take a gander at Midnight in the Garden of Glamour new for Fall 2011! That's right, Sephora and Ulta don't even have this yet.

With a garden of gemstone and shimmery neutral colors to play with, this collection rocks my green-eyed world! Green-eyed in that it's the color of my eyes, not that I perceive the world with envy. Ok, that clarified, just imagine how these shades will enhance green eyes. Really, the shades of the new palette will enhance all eye shades beautifully. Let me share more of the deets of the collection.

NEW SMOKEY EYE SHADOW COLLECTION
A smokey eye is the most requested makeup look by women seeking a smoldering, sexy style. Too Faced reintroduces this popular collection with a slimmer package and new, color-saturated formulas. Created for this deeply blended technique, the wearable shades add a modern drama to all eye shapes.

Shades include: Firefly (silvery taupe), White Lie (sugar white), In A Flash (silver shimmer), Cloves (bronzey brown), Nice Ash (charcoal), Smoking Jacket (black plum), Up In Smoke (black brown), Smokin Hot (matte black), Smolder (matte navy)

EXOTIC COLOR INTENSE EYE SHADOW SINGLES $18
Personally, I fancied their shadow before, but Too Faced has amped up their shadows with this dangerously rich collection of exotic shadows. These intense sating shades were created as the must-have accessory to compliment their best-selling eye shadow collections.

SHADOW INSURANCE LEMON DROP $18
Introducing Shadow Insurance Lemon Drop Color Correcting Eye Shadow Primer!
World-famous Shadow Insurance primer has been infused with a perfect lemon-yellow tone that neutralizes redness and ruddiness while ensuring eye shadow shades are clear and true every time.

PERFECT EYES WATERPROOF EYELINER $18
Their creamy, long-wearing eye liners glide on with the ease of a liquid liner and are said to lock down for 8 hours of budge-proof, smudge-proof wear. These high-impact pencils come in six waterproof shades ranging from the necessary classic to cutting-edge couture. Each includes a flexi-firm, beveled smudger to allow for a smokey blend or precise line.

Shades include: Black, Peacock (teal), Black Orchid (blackened plum), Purple, Brown, and Storm (charcoal)

The Midnight in the Garden of Glamour collection also features a dual-helix, keratin-infused, curl-setting mascara (Size Queen tis its name) and a 3-piece brush set created by founder Jerrod Blandino that are "must-haves for all eye makeup application". Visit TooFaced online today to learn more about the collection and for purchase.

Today on QVC: Beauty Newsmakers

2011-06-03T05:22:00.001-05:00

Look who's back on QVC! Experience beauty industry genius during Beauty Newsmakers Face-to-Face on QVC today. Meet leading experts in the beauty industry, and get to know the “brains” behind the brands, up close and personal.

Tune in today at 9 AM and 7 PM (ET) for the latest innovations at unbeatable prices. Learn exactly how to use these top beauty products and what they'll do for you through expert presentations complete with tips and how-to's straight from the professionals who created these brands. It's like having your own professional beauty lesson right in the comfort of your own home. Tivo it if you can't watch, or visit QVC online to get video playback, customer reviews and more.

Presentations will include those from Josie Maran, Dr. Adrienne Dense, Mally Roncal, Chaz Dean, Laura Geller, Bobbi Brown and more! Plus, take advantage of value pricing, extra value pay options and bulk sizes for a limited time. Stock up on your favorite WEN cleansing conditioner, which is hugely discounted today and available in pro sizes. (Look at that gallon size bottle ... wowza!)

WEN by Chaz Dean Cleansing Conditioner, One Gallon
QVC Item #/A73764 $160.80 FEATURE PRICE! (Reg. QVC Price $177.00)

I use this product and loooove it! No stripping, gently cleans, and soft, shiny hair results. I even create cleansing conditioning "cocktails." For instance, I love to apply Tea Tree on my head and scalp and Sweet Almond Mint on the length and ends. Sweet aromatherapy treat and hair treatment in one!

The 16oz product sells for $28.00 on QVC; a savings of more than $60!
Take a revolutionary step toward beautiful, healthy, shiny hair. These formulas replace shampoo, conditioner, deep conditioner, detangler, leave-in conditioner, and even shaving cream. Choose from Pomegranate, Sweet Almond Mint, Cucumber Aloe, Fig, Tea Tree and Lavender.

Josie Maran Deluxe Argan Oil with Bonus Color Stick
QVC Item #A216380 $83.76 FEATURE PRICE! (QVC Price $92.00)

This 100% organic argan oil, a legendary, lightweight oil grown in Morocco, is ideal for all skin types. Rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids, it's effective as a fast-absorbing daily moisturizer. People also use it to heal and condition anything from cuticles to split ends. The argan oil-infused color stick is a sheer tint that provides lasting, natural-looking color to cheeks and lips. Its universally lovely shade, Glow, was specifically created by Josie to flatter every skin tone.

Dr. Denese Pro C Illuminating Cell Defense Pads 100 ct.
QVC Item #A210055 Approximately $49.50

A unique, daily vitamin C facial pad system that helps to brighten and illuminate the complexion and rejuvenate dull, uneven skin into luminous skin. It delivers essential hydration to the skin to help soften the look of lines and wrinkles, smoothes the skin for a more youthful appearance, and delivers superior protection from free radical attack.

Mally Set of Two Light Wand Eye Highlighter and Brightener
QVC Item #A87872 Approximately $35.00

Who doesn't adore Mally? Of course we ALL love her ... and for good reason, she gives us fantastic, professional quality products at unbelievable prices. Love you, Mally xxxx. These Lightwands help give you a gorgeous, wide-awake appearance. The creamy, long-wearing pencil lets your lighten and brighten your eyes, while the extra-soft sponge on the other end gives a touch of light to the inner corners of the eye or anywhere you need it.

Watch Beauty Newsmakers on QVC today or tune in online for the video presentations, pro tips, special pricing and lots of fun!

Hypnoteyezed: Starring Jessica Biel and Revlon Grow Luscious Plumping Mascara

2011-06-02T17:14:00.000-05:00

Jessica Biel for Revlon Grow Luscious Plumping Mascara

Come hither.

I've a tale to tell. A tale of romance, glamour and flirtation. A tale of phat, plump, dramatic lashes that will knock him off his feet. One of intrigue, anticipation and ....... always better to let our own imaginations do the visualizing. Let yourself go while that scene plays out.

Or, inspire the vision with a playful little peek at Revlon's new film. A Revlon movie? Well, sort of. Revlon’s brand ambassador Jessica Biel stars in “Hypnoteyzed,” a new commercial for their new Grow Luscious Plumping Mascara.

Jessica Biel starring in Revlon's Commercial for Grow Luscious Plumping Mascara

Biel and musician Pharrell Williams star in the 60 second film noir-inspired commercial, which was shot entirely on black and white film. In “Hypnoteyzed,” Biel draws Williams in with her plumped eyelashes and with each bat of her lashes, nearly knocks Williams off his feet. Revlon Grow Luscious Plumping Mascara claims their new product conditions and plumps eyelashes by 200% with every use!

Revlon Grow Luscious Plumping Mascara uses a thickening formula that paired with the innovative precision tapered brush grabs and coats every lash individually for plumped perfection. The volumizing mascara also contains the award-winning Revlon Grow Luscious Mascara technology, including a lash enhancing phyto-peptide formula that conditions and stregthens lashes to compliment their natural growth cycle. The result is lashes so plump, healthy and strong they rival unnatural lash enhancements, says the company.

KEY FEATURES/BENEFITS/INGREDIENTS:

• Plumps lashes up to 200%* instantly for maximum volume

• Thickening formula instantly plumps lashes leaving them more voluminous with each use

• Lash enhancing phyto-peptide formula conditions and strengthens lashes complementing their natural growth cycle;

• Won’t smudge, flake or clump.

*non-waterproof formula only

As of today, Revlon Grow Luscious Plumping Mascara is available in the shades Blackest Black, Black and Blackened Brown (retail: $7.99) in drugstores and mass retailers nationwide, and “Hypnoteyzed” will begin running in US movie theaters on June 13. Enjoy! xo

source/photos: Revlon

Don't Miss Glamour's Month of Beauty Giveaways

2011-06-01T06:02:00.002-05:00

click to enlarge for detail

We're about 2/3 of the way through Glamour's month long celebration of beauty giveaways, but it's not too late to get in on this, ladies and gents. Each day, now through June 9th, beauty products in all categories are being awarded. Still to come:

DHC's Iconic Deep Cleansing Oil - 25 will win!

Perfect Formula's Pink Gel Coat - 30 will win! I love this product; has done wonders for my thin, peeling nails.

Brow Queen Anastasia Soare's Beverly Hills Brow Gel - 25 will win!

L'Occitane's Angelica Protective Lotion with SPF 15 - 25 get this!

and more ...

All the details are in Glamour magazine. You can access the giveaways online here. Good luck, everyone! xo

Source: Glamour, Conde Nast

Get Moving Tips for Women on the Go from Fitness Expert Kristin McGee

2011-05-31T06:17:00.003-05:00

Kristin McGee courtesy of KristinMcGee.com

That's you, right? A woman on the go? Sure is. If you're like me, you scold yourself repeatedly throughout the day for not getting more movement in for the good of the ole bod. Help has arrived!

Celebrity yoga and fitness instructor Kristin McGee shares quick tips for sneaking movement into your day this summer. Google her, you'll see this lass knows her stuff. Always happy to learn new, inspired ways to tender my body more healthy, I am so appreciative for these quick tips-on-the-go.

Rise and shine each morning with a set of high knee lifts
Carry, don't cart, your grocery bags and use their weight to do a few quick bicep curls to tone your arms
Take the stairs two at a time to sneak walking lunges into your daily routine (no elevators, girls)
Do 20 jumping jacks to get your heart rate up and blood pumping (fresh oxygen, please, feels great)

Here's another little tip for summer, ladies. Degree Women launched a new wetness protection in March designed to start working before you even need it. Degree Women motionSENSE is activated by motion first and is proved to help women stay ahead of perspiration. It's currently my anti-perspirant/deodorant of choice - love the Fresh Energy scent - and is keeping me dry and comfy even in the sizzling hot, humid heat of down south New Orleans. That's a feat! Degree Women motionSENSE is available in drugstores nationwide and retails for approximately $4.69.

Vera Sweeney, Kristin McGee and Audrey McClelland

Want more? You've got it! Check out this quick 2 minute vid from Degree with Kristin giving more movement tips to two expert blogging angels (love them!), Vera Sweeney of I'm Not Obsessed and Lady & the Blog and Audrey McClelland of Mom Generations.

Cool Down on Memorial Day with Caudalie Vinotherapie Spas

2011-05-27T15:10:00.000-05:00

Caudalie Vinotherapie Spa at The Plaza is revamping its menus! Both their wine and spa treatment menus are getting a refresher for summer.

Mathilde Thomas, Caudalie's Founder, hand selected the newest addition to the French Paradox Wine Lounge in the vibrant Wolffer Estate Rose'. Calling it "summer in a bottle," the rose' complements the current collection of Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte vintages and adds a sparkling twist perfect for the warmer months ahead. The rose' is filled with fresh fruit aromas of peach and pear, with hints of rose petal and bursts of crisp acidity. You may partake of a glass of this sumptuous wine for $10 a glass.

And if that's not reason enough to visit them, here's yet another. Wanting to cater to clients seeking beach body readiness, a new signature treatment has been designed to instantly refresh the body and ensure a flawless glow. The Refreshing Body Polish treatment features the Caudalie Merlot Scrub massaged into the body, while the Vichy Shower rains down on the skin followed by a heated towel wrap. Those unfamiliar with the scrub will be surprisingly delighted by this freshly made treatment using brown sugar, grape seed oil, essential oils of peppermint, sweet mint and lemon, body lotion and the Caudalie Firming Concentrate. This treatment is perfect for firming, exfoliating and nourishing body skin. Magnifique!

The treatment is just 20 minutes, thus perfect for clients-on-the-go or as an add-on to any of the other spa treatments. The ideal pre self-tanning treatment is a great way to beat the heat as the Body Polish has a cooling effect that leaves skin refreshed.

Caudalie Vinotherapie Spa is located on the 4th floor of The Plaza located at One West 58th Street in New York. To book an appointment, you make call 212-265-3182. Happy Memorial Day, gorgeous angels! xo

Mother's Day Gifts of Beauty

2011-05-03T20:52:00.000-05:00

One of the things I love about gifting with beauty is it truly is a gift that keeps on giving. And each time the recipient uses that item, it reminds them of the one who gave it. I find that's especially true when the giver takes the likes and desires of the recipient in mind. What I mean by that, for instance, is if your mom has been complaining about itchy, dry, rough skin on her upper arms and you know she also enjoys citrus, a verbena scented body scrub would make such a special gift. Right? Of course, right.

With that in mind, here are a few products I can recommend to you for gifting, each with its own special properties.

POMEGA5 ROSE SYSTEM
Have a mom who loves flowers, perhaps even the traditional and lovely fragrance of roses? I promise you, you cannot go wrong with Pomega5's Rose System. Readers already know Pomega5 is one of my absolute most favorite skincare brand out there. Based on using the highly coveted pomegranate seed oil, this is a family run company that takes time to create high quality, gorgeous, effective products, often receiving inspiration for their products from their extensive home garden. There's not been a single item I've been even the slightest bit disappointed in. Everything I've tried I've loved, cherished and delighted in. Each product contains its very own special properties and each smells so delicious you can't wait to use them. I truly believe in this brand!

While 60% of us buy flowers for our moms every year, this year we can give her roses through the sure-to-make-her-feel-good Rose System that’s actually good for her. Pomega5’s Rose System makes you feel calm and refreshed, and the pure, organic ingredients will help regenerate skin to its youthful and bright complexion. Available exclusively direct from Pomega5. $135 for the set.

Includes:

Bulgarian Rose Moisturizing Beauty Bar (120 g)

Daily Revitalizing Concentrate (30 ampoules)

Bois de Rose Velvet Hydrating Cream (50 ml)

AMALA HYDRATE SPA VALISE
Amala Hydrate Spa Valise Set replenishes and sustains skin's moisture level with organic Egyptian Jasmine, renowned for its nourishing, smoothing and antioxidant benefits for skin. Amala's certified organic Jasmine is cultivated and custom distilled in Egypt by their own fair trade farm partner. Your skin feels so refreshed, soothed and pampered. This is the gift of responsible, results-driven skincare. Rich in organic whole plants, the conveniently packaged, proven-effective treatments beautify the skin and benefit the earth. Eco-luxe organic hemp and woven paper valise. Available at Spirit Beauty Lounge. $102 for the set.

Includes:

Hydrating cream cleanser 1.7 oz.

Hydrating toner 1.7 oz.

Hydrating face cream 1 oz.

ELEMENTAL HERBOLOGY D.I.Y. FACIAL RITUAL GIFT SET
Offering innovative prescriptive skincare, Elemental Herbology products address the changes that occur in the skin as a result of seasonal, lifestyle and hormonal change. Formulated to help restore equilibrium, the brand is committed to helping their customers achieve healthy and radiant skin. They are performance focused, yielding that ‘feel good factor’, their products combine clinically-tested bio-actives with over one hundred unique plant, mineral and marine extracts and pure delicately scented flower oils.

This is the perfect introduction kit to give you a wonderful discovery of this fabulous skincare brand. Love, love, love Elemental Herbology. I can't believe this kit is only $55. Available at Beauty Bar.

Includes:

Facial Glow Radiance Peel - Vitamin C/Papaya/Manuka Honey

This radiance peel is infused with a tropical cocktail of vitamins, enzymes and skin-brightening botanicals, to help exfoliate dead surface cells, stimulate cell metabolism and harmonise the skin tone to create a radiant and glowing complexion.

Facial Detox Puifying Mask - Malachite/Kaolin/Manuka Honey

Mineral rich organic Amazonian Clay helps eliminate toxins from the surface of the skin while gently exfoliating and softening. Although it has astringent properties it is not as dehydrating as conventional clays, leaving the skin soft, humidified and glowing.

Biodynamic Facial Souffle' - Rose Damask/Marine Collagen/Calendula

Rich in amino acids, collagen and reparative botanicals, this luxurious treatment mask helps soothe, plump, hydrate and repair parched skin to reveal a dewy, fresh and vibrant complexion.

CLARISONIC MIA
If your mom doesn't own a Clarisonic yet, this is the p-e-r-f-e-c-t occasion to treat her to one. From the Clarisonic family of sonic skin-cleansing products, the one-button, one-speed, one-minute Mia is perfect for those wanting a convenient, less costly (from the traditional Clarisonic system), yet effective way to cleanse while traveling--or anytime. This award-winning waterproof, rechargeable, professional-caliber brush uses gentle sonic micro-massage action to cleanse deeply. It works so well, it helps other skin-care products absorb better. It cleans pores--loosening dirt, makeup, and oil as it reduces the appearance of pores and wrinkles. It's proven to remove six times more makeup than traditional superficial cleansing, allowing serums and moisturizers to absorb better. Skin is left soft, pampered, radiant, and younger-looking--without harsh abrasion or chemicals. It's so gentle, you can use it twice a day.

Clarisonic Mia Systems retail between $124 - $150 and are available worldwide. I recommend purchasing from b-glowing (looove them! great customer service and they include fabulous samples) and QVC (sometimes available with easy pay options).

JABONERIA MARIANELLA SOAPS
Handmade soaps, each with its own distinctive artistic flair and a childhood memory attached. That's what Venezuelan-born Marianella Febres-Cordero has created with her gorgeous and luxurious line of soaps. This is one of my very favorite places to shop when I have a gift to buy! Each bar smells luscious and creates such a beautiful focal point, wherever you place it. You just can't help but be transported to another place and time through the stories Marianella tells for each soap inspiration. Each bar is infused with its own special essential and fragrance oils. It's a sensual experience through and through. Truly lovely!

Current bars include:

Aranciata (my favorite) - Orange, Teakwood and Rosemary

Aura Elena (close 2nd) - Oak Moss, Coconut and Mulberry

Coqueta - Baby Powder, Vanilla and Grapefruit

Dama de la Noche - Lemon, Apple and the exotic Dama de la Noche flower

Desert Gardenia - Gardenia, Honey and Oak Moss

Lemonwood - Bois de Rose, Litsea Cubeba and Bergamot

Parchita - Passion Fruit, Polyantha Rose and Litsea Cubeba

Poncha Crema - Vanilla, Fig and Cinnamon

Sugar Cane Tea - Sugar Cane, Plum and Litsea Cubeba

Violet Fields - Violet, Bergamot and a hint of Menthol

Jaboneria Marianella bars (there's a men's line too) are available directly through them. $14

THIS WORKS "CRACKERS"
I love these ... and so unique. Love Lip Cracker contains a nourishing preservative-free balm that's been designed to melt at body temperature so it is easily absorbed into skin. With a rich formula packed with the earth's most moisturizing ingredients and an exotic blend of Monoi Oil, Rose Oil and Cocoa Butter, the balm hydrates lips, soothes and protects skin. Peace Eye Cracker contains a lovely little eye serum/cream that has garnered rave reviews for dark circle reduction and improvement in lines and undereye bags. The soothing blend of serum brightens and refreshes eyes using a fusion of regenerating and moisturizing glycerin, arnica, aloe vera and cucumber. Both are available at Beautyhabit. $14 each.

TALLULAH JANE NATURAL PERFUMES
Blended with botanical essences, resins and balsams, Tallulah Jane scents are an ever-evolving olfactory experience. No two vintages are exactly alike so your Tallulah Jane scent is always unique; designed my nature - especially for you. Tallulah, their signature scent, is the most fabulous jasmine scent I've ever tried. Creamy jasmine notes and heady tuberose combine for a scent that is timeless yet so ultra cool! And be on the look out soon for a feature on their newest creation, Hope. I can't wait to tell you more about it and the company's generous collaboration with the American Cancer Society for their Pink & Black Tie Gala. Tallulah Jane perfumes are available at Spirit Beauty Lounge. $48 - $58

LOVE + TOAST and TOKYO MILK CURIOSITIES
Such whimsical packaging, gorgeous formulas and sweet, decadent aromas are yours with a little purchase of Love + Toast or Tokyo Milk products. They feature an assortment of perfumes, soaps, lip balms and hand creams that are unlike any you've tried before. Experience scent combinations like mandarin tea, honey coconut, lemon mint, citrus gin blossom, or tantalize with a sophisticated blend of fresh greens, cassis, white iris and bronzed musk crushed and distilled to perfection. Love + Toast and Tokyo Milk and Tokyo Milk Dark are by beauty entrepreneur Margot Elena Wells, who also brought us Lollia. Her natural beauty line will be released soon, nectar + pollen - can't wait! Love + Toast and Tokyo Milk products are available at b-glowing and Beautyhabit. $6 - $28

Candles & Home Fragrance
Continue the heavenly scents experience for mom with a beautifully packaged candle or unique home fragrance idea. Nothing warms the mood of a room or the essence of a soul quite like the candlelight.

AEDES DE VENUSTAS GLOW BOX
Presented in their signature black Aedes gift box the Glow Box contains their popular Lime Coconut Sea Salt Exfoliator, Claus Porto's Tuberose soap and a L'Artisan Parfumeur votive candle. Available at Aedes. $80

L'ARTISAN PARFUMEUR PARIS VOTIVES COFFRETS
The exclusive and limited edition gift coffret contains three L'Artisan Parfumeur votives. Les Best is composed of Orangers en Fleurs, Intérieur Figuier and Mûre Sauvage; Les Orientales is composed of Ambre, Thé et Pain d’Epices and Ile Bourbon. Available at Aedes. $60 (each set)

SLATKIN & CO.
Flower Shop is a delightful scent of fresh-cut spring flowers - sweet lilac, pink freesia and hyacinth layered with cooling greens. This 14.5 oz, 3-wick candle has a burn life of 40 - 65 hours and is available at Bath & Body Works. Fresh Bamboo is another fabulous scent - very clean smelling. Special Sale Price: 2 candles for $30 any assortment of scents (reg. $19.95 each).

AVENUE CANDLE COLLECTION
Years of traversing the globe searching for extraordinary fragrances is the inspiration for Avenue Candle Collection; each unique candle brings the characteristics and mood of some of the most famous streets in Avenue's favorite cities into our homes. Avenue's Regent Street highlights notes of Earl Grey Tea and Violet. Bergamot Citrus and Black Tea leaves are married with a hint of honey and neroli for a deeply rich fragrance. Available at LAFCO New York. Burn time: 75 - 85 hours. $48

SANTA MARIA NOVELLA SCENTED TABLETS
Here's a divinely unique idea. Santa Maria Novella Scented Tablets are 100% organic and natural essential oils mixed with beeswax from the fertile Tuscan fields and bee farms of Santa Maria Novella. Too beautiful to be hidden, tablets can be placed in drawers, hung in closets (ribbon is already attached) or simply left out in the open on a tray to freshen and scent the surrounding space. Tablets are completely safe and organic and will not stain clothing or fabrics, however wax will become malleable at very high room temperatures (85+ degrees F). Lavender and rose oils, lavender blossoms and rose buds for a fresh romantic scent. Available at LAFCO New York, and also available in the scents of Orange/Cinnamon and Potpourri. $30

Wishing you and your mothers a most fabulous Mother's Day weekend! xo

ShopNBC: Day of Summer Beauty

2011-05-01T00:23:00.000-05:00

These all day of beauty extravaganzas are always so much fun! Not only are the newest of seasonal beauty items by top brands showcased, but we get the opportunity to see first-hand techniques and presenations on how to get flawless looks. And with ShopNBC, you know you're always going to have mega opportunities for easy-pay options on days they feature nothing but beauty.

Here are a few selections in store for you from ShopNBC Day of Summer Beauty:

CANE + AUSTIN GLYCOLIC TREATMENT PADS
(Retail $60) ~ Special Beauty Day Price: $49.09 (3 Easy Payments: $16.03)

I'm thrilled to see Cane + Austin's Glycolic Treatment Pads being offered. I'd refer you to my review of this item in an earlier post. I've seen real results in a very short time using these, so can highly recommend them to you. These sugar cane infused pads were developed by dermatologist Craig Austin, MD as an effective one-step, at home exfroliating glycolic treatment, which helps rebuild collagen.

•Contains the purest, strongest and most effective form of glycolic that can be found on the market.
•Derived from natural sugar cane, these pads effectively exfoliate and retexture skin, revealing a clear, more radiant complexion.
•Experience a reduction in the appearance of pores.
•Clinical study participants saw an average of 27% reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
•Contains witch hazel for additional toning and tightening.
•Recommended for all skin types.

ANGEL LIFT DERMA LIPS
(Retail $60) ~ Special Beauty Day Price: $43.59 (2 Easy Payments: $21.80)

Ok, this I have to say I'm very interested to test drive. This is a brand new item for ShopNBC and promised to safely and softly increase lip volume and size without injections, implants or chemicals. Hmmmm.

How do I use this?
Directions inform you to moisturize your face prior to use with a deep penetrating moisturizer. Wash Angel Lift Derma Lips before each use with an anti-plaque mouthwash. Wear under your upper lip along the gum line, just above your teeth. They recommend wearing Angel Lift Derma Lips only for a few minutes at a time to check for any gum irritation. As your mouth begins to adapt to the strips as it would for any perioral device, the possibility of irritation is said to dissipate. Wear only one at a time. Optimally, work your way up to 30 minutes twice per day depending on the comfort level. The longer and more often you wear them, the more effectively they will work. It is reported that initially, most people find they need to use them regularly for three or four weeks, depending on the desired effect.

EPIONE BEVERLY HILLS SUNBLOCK PROTECT & CORRECT SPF 40+ WATER RESISTANT - LIGHTLY TINTED
From Beverly Hills top dermatologist Simon Ouarian, MD (and touted by RHOBH Housewife Lisa Vanderpump - love her!), this cream will completely change your mind about sunscreen. Oh yes, you heard me, I said, "Completely!" Here's why. Sunblock Protect & Correct is SPF 40+ protection that simultaneously helps reduce redness (and appearance of rosacea), fine lines and discoloration while moisturizing skin. It leaves a radiance to skin and does indeed cover nicely with its lightly tinted formula. It's a paraben, sulfate, oil and fragrance free product. You'll notice immediately it doesn't have the usual sunscreen smell. This is a must-have item for anyone wanting to protect against sun damage AND create a flawless complexion all at the same time. Just beautiful!

click images to enlarge

This item is available during Beauty Day in a sweet little kit that includes Dr. Ourian's Epione Hydration Moisturizing Creme and the Sunblock for $96.87 (or 4 Easy Payments: $24.22). This kit normally retails for $160.00. I'm really hoping ShopNBC will offer the Sunblock Protect & Correct on its own in the future as well.

SKINN COSMETICS DERMAPPEAL THERMO-ENZYMATIC MICRODERMABRASION TREATMENT
Beauty Day Price: $29.75 (2 Value Pays: $14.88)

Hard not to be enthusiastic about Dimitri James products as he is so charismatic, and rightly so, himself. Rightly so as Dimitri truly does create wonderful products, not available anywhere else, and more affordable than similar products of the same high quality. There are lots of new Skinn Cosmetics items available for Beauty Day, but one item you want to be sure not to miss is his DermAppeal. Bonus: It smells delicious and feels as if you've just been to a spa!

•Aluminum oxide free resurfacing and revitalizing treatment utilizes a naturally occurring mineral from the Dead Sea
•Along with Papaya and Pineapple Extracts to give you the benefits of a microdermabrasion treatment at the convenience of your own home
•Use once or twice a week for a softer, smoother, less lined, no pore look

Additionally, I must refer you to the video presentation (click link at left) to see a presentation on application and results after use. You'll see why I love this!

l-r: Romance, Confident, Passion t to b: Romance, Confident, Passion Passion (top), Confident (b-left), Romance (b-right)

CELESTINE LIP GLOSS TRIO
(Retail $63, $21 each if sold separately) ~ Special Beauty Day Price: $33

Ladies, the colors in this gloss kit are soooo beautiful and very sheer. Don't let the darkness of the pigments in the tubes, or the glittery/shimmer distract you. They apply beautifully, feel a bit tingly on the lips (adds fullness) and contains anti-aging peptides. Each shade is designed to work on all skin tones, so you can't go wrong whether you buy it as a gift or for yourself. Formulated with a polymeric network that forms a gel and this helps maximize the shine and clarity of color. It feels so hydrating on the lips, and not at all sticky. It has great cushion and it is long lasting. Contains aloe and anti-aging antioxidants.

L - R: Romance, Confident, Passion

Celestine Signature Color Cosmetics is a brand new line to ShopNBC and uses smart molecules and smart mineral technology that is said to allow their makeup to float on the skin. It has self-adjusting pigments so it always perfectly matches your skin tone. This innovative color cosmetics collection is infused with peptides and is 100% paraben and fragrance free. Check out other products in the Celestine line here.

DENTALOGICA 3-DAY TEETH WHITENING SYSTEM with LIP BALM
(Retail: $120) ~ Special Beauty Day Price: $89.68 (3 Value Pays: $29.89)

This kit is a dual action teeth whitening system. The Fierce White Dual eneded unit Chamber 1 delivers a primer that you paint onto the teeth. Chamber 2 is the whitening agent and is painted on top of the primer. It's enriched with peppermint oil and Blood of the Dragon botanical extract. Fierce White Retouch Pens extend the efforts of the whitening system. It's a simple way to noticeably whiten teeth. Dentalogica's scientifically advanced system is formulated to achieve luminous results in an innovative delivery system. Safe on crowns, veneers, implants and partials. Works great if you have coffee, tea, red wine or other foods likely to stain teeth. The Mandarin Orange Lip Balm contains collagen microspheres that help maximize volume. It enhance the natural color and shape of your lips with its lip plumping properties. You feel the tingly blend on your lips a few minutes after applying. Natural marine spheres, like micro-sponges, expand in the gaps caused by aging and overexposure to the sun. It's rich in beta carotene and an all natural moisturizer that contains essential bio-nutrients to sooth chapped lips. Other ingredients include mango seed butter, oligopeptides DPHP.

Be sure to check out other great summer beauty products and tools from brands like AminoGenesis, Peter Coppola, DermaWand, Toni Brattin Tan Fabulous and more.

And you absolutely don't want to miss your chance to enter to win this fantastic Christian Audigier Tote filled to the brim with beauty products. Visit ShopBeauty at ShopNBC on Facebook to enter. Contest ends tomorrow, May 1st.

Watch All Day of Summer Beauty on ShopNBC beginning Saturday night and all day Sunday, May 1st. You can also check them out online at ShopNBC.com.

earth day 2011 feature: celebrating with mōksa organics

2011-04-22T13:45:00.002-05:00

I am so honored to be celebrating Earth Day with a feature on mōksa organics. The first thing you need to know about mōksa organics is they are so much more than soap! Allow me to delight your senses and inform your mind.

I have to admit it's really kind of hard to find a starting point. Founder Melanie Martin has created such a rich melange of goodness with mōksa that one wonders whether a feature about the brand should begin with the products or the philosophy and non-profits they hold dear to the heart. Melanie exudes so much passion and energy about her company one can actually feel it warming the heart and soul through everything she seems to touch.

Melanie and Haskell, her husband, Owners/Founders of mōksa organics, sum it up this way:

"We make soap. But not just any soap. Because regular soap is plain ol' boring. We've created a clean revolution."

There's no bulk packaging, wasted materials or lists of ingredients a mile long or that contribute to environmental hazards here. Their products contain ingredients you recognize as pure, simple, natural. They are certified organic. They also use fair-trade whenever possible. Melanie is quick to point out that their products never include palm oils. Why? Commercial harvesting of palms for their oil is the leading cause of ecosystem's loss of habitat and deforestation. mōksa organics' ingredients are chosen with the least amount of environmental impact. Their packaging is tree free. They use post consumer waste, recycled materials and no virgin plastics.

mōksa organics has received federally recognized certification as a carbon neutral company. All of their offsets are used locally to purchase trees for Alachua Conservation Fund. mōksa's mission is to be an active part of solutions for a sustainable future. Let me reiterate, when they say they intend to play an "active" part, they mean it. When I first contacted Melanie she was dashing off to a local Sierra Club meeting (she's a board member), where they were busily planning for a campaign launch about Bottled Water awareness.

Melanie at the lake behind her house

Melanie couldn't have been more gracious about supplying me with information (and product) to showcase mōksa for Earth Day, a month/day she shares is her favorite. As I've gotten to learn more about her, I can't think of anyone or any brand better to feature on Earth Day than Melanie and mōksa organics. They are the epitome of Earth Day celebration. And as you might expect, giving back is a huge part of what they do through mōksa. More on that in a little bit.

"Our products allow us to do what we love and it allows us to work with progressive people and groups that help minimize our (society's) impact on nature and our eco-system. Our mission focuses on habitat preservation and conservation...soap helps us accomplish that. That's why we call it soapy love."

Allow me to introduce you to some of mōksa's gorgeous products. Let me set the scene for these by telling you when I opened the package of soaps, my office filled with the delicious scents of essential oils, as if it had been transformed into my own little mini spa. The chemical reaction between us (soaps and me) had ignited. It was destiny ... I was falling in love ... quickly.

Bohemian Forest
A blend of wintergreen and woodsy aromas for that Bohemian experience. Check out this ingredient list (and note the shortness): Organic oils of olive, coconut, soybean, castor, hemp, babassu, shea butter; blend of pure essentail oils; organic rosemary extract.

It's named after the beautiful Bohemian Forest, which has a beautiful, diverse eco-system (all mōksa soaps are named after a cool spot on the planet). The environmental advocacy group that it's dedicated to: Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE). Based in India, ATREE does much in the field of research, outreach and conservation. Melanie says, "They are one of those hard working organizations that few people know about and they fly under the radar. They have a huge emphasis on EDUCATION. They need support."

Abbey Road
A blend of sweet orange, clove, vanilla and English tea blends will transport you without moving from your shower to the green fields and quaint villages of Britian. Abbey Road body bar is the perfect remedy for fighting off the blue meanies or just getting the grit of the man off your back! No environmental significance, other than "peace and love" that is associated with the musicians that frequent Abbey Road Studios.

It's dedicated to Aaranyak, another small organization Melanie says flies under the radar and is in need of support for its wonderful contributions. Aaranyak's mission is to foster conservation of biodiversity in Northeast India through research, environmental education, capacity building and advocacy for legal and policy reform to usher a new era of ecological security.

Lavender Avignon
One small whiff of the perfectly balanced blend of lavender and vanilla and you're headed straight to France. Sometimes you've just got to keep it pure and simple. Take a break from your daily routine, slow down, and enjoy the simplest of organic pleasures.

Named after the lavender fields in Avignon, France, this soap is dedicated to The Sierra Club: Suwannee-St. Johns Group. This is an organization very close to Melanie's heart. Hear her passion as she elaborates here:

"I'd like to try and explain. The Sierra Club has a very well known national name. What people don't know is that communities around the country have LOCAL chapters within the Sierra Club. This is HUGE! We (mōksa) believe in local first and foremost. Local is the base where change happens. These local chapters around the 50 states are comprised of Board Members that lobby, attend state meetings at capital headquarters, and are an environmental voice for their community with regards to city and county laws, development, preservation of state parks, etc. I proudly serve on the Executive Committee here in Florida. Our group covers 15 counties and our members have done so much to protect and preserve Florida's local and state environmental gems."

The theme Melanie most wants to convey is that Sierra Club functions as a whole because of all the hard work of thousands of local groups around the country. Local Sierra Club chapters need support. Hence, the dedication and proceed/profit dedication to the organization she hold near and dear to her heart through sales of Lavender Avignon.

But Are They Any Good?
All this looks and sounds great, right, but what of the products themselves ... are they lovely to use?
I'm not sure I can fully express in a blog post just how incredibly gorgeous these products are. These are substantial, big bars of soap, not slivers of product. They are 6.5 oz in weight and much more in essence. The bars provide a rich, luxuriously creamy lather. They all smell divine. You know how generally you'll smell a few bars of soap on display somewhere and be able to come up with a favorite from the line? Yeah, you can't do that with these - they're all amazing. The blends of the essential oils in each bar are spot on ... not too much of one or the other to overpower the senses. It may sound cliche', but using these bars truly does lend the experience of washing in nature.

I mentioned to Melanie that my face never felt cleaner than after using her soap (I tried Abbey Road first). I had a healthy glow to my skin I haven't seen since I was in my 20's - shocking! I hesitate to even call the bars soap as that conjures up thoughts of something drying to skin. There is nothing in mōksa soap bars that are drying to skin. I'm telling you, I can't wait to jump out of bed in the morning to wash my face. When a bar of soap can do that for a mood (especially for a mood of one who is in NO way a morning person), that's saying something.

L-R: hand before body butter, mōksa organics Lavender Bergamot Body Butter, hand with body butter

Don't think mōksa's soaps are their only product worth salivating over. I had the good fortume to also try their body butter in Lavender Bergamot. Omgosh!! The consistency is a firm yet somehow whipped texture of deliciousness. Ya know, lab produced, synthetic, amalgamations of chemically infused products just cannot give you these same results: simple, pure, healthy.

Well, clearly you see I am completely enamored with mōksa organics and its founder, Melanie. But really, who wouldn't be? Honest, pure, back-to-nature (literally) goodness handcrafted from a place of integrity and heart. It's just a winning combination all around.

mōksa soaps retail for $6.50 a bar and body butters for $14 a jar. You may also seek out their body oils, bath salts, t-shirts and totes (they are "revolutionary" he he!). Please do yourself a favor and check out mōksa organics online; your skin and conscience will thank you! Products by mōksa organics are also available online at nimli.com, bellafloria.com and other boutique retailers. Enjoy! xo

Spirit Beauty Lounge: Top 10 for Spring

2011-04-22T10:12:00.000-05:00

On Earth Day, click on over to Spirit Beauty Lounge to check out what beauty Spirit Demerson has to show you in her Top 10 for Spring lineup. There you'll find eco-conscious treats of makeup, skincare, haircare and other items to keep you looking and feeling your best from brands like Vapour Organics, rms beauty, Priti Nails, Nvey Eco and more.

Tata Harper Resurfacing Mask, Cleanse, Stimulate, Counteract $55

RMS Beauty Lip Shine, A Fountain of Youth for Lips, Shade: Bloom $25

Nvey Eco Organic Compact Powder Bronzer, Silky All Over Bronzer $42

Vive Sana Solar to Polar Ultra SPF 40 100% Natural Hydrating Protection $29

Vapour Organic Beauty Aura Multi Use Blush, A Youthful Natural Cheek Look, Shade: Courtesan $28

Yarok Feed Your Roots Volume Enhancing Mousse, for a Super-Natural Lift $22

Priti 3 Free Nail Polish's Pastel Violet Shade: Empress Tree $12.50

Honore Des Pres Love les Carottes, An Unexpected Beautiful Must-Try $98

Hydrea London FSC Certified Rubber Grip Bath & Massage Brush, Body Beauty Essential $14

Alex Bottle in White/Pop with Clean Seam Technology $29.95

Visit Spirit Beauty Lounge and select your goodies! No better time to do so than Earth Day!

REVIEW: Annmarie Organic & Natural Skin Care

2011-04-12T06:55:00.001-05:00

When the first ingredient listed on a product label is love, you know you're in for some goodness. Annmarie Organic Skin Care doesn't disappoint. Using blends of natural oils and extracts to preserve her products, founder Annmarie Gianni stands firm on not using alcohol or chemicals in her line of pure, organic skincare. As a consumer, I appreciate that. A lot!

Frustrated with not being able to find products, even natural ones, without chemicals and harsh ingredients, Annmarie decided the only way she'd get them was to make them herself. She called upon the teachings of ancient cultures, herbalists and shamans to create products from what the earth provides us. Believing her products have innate healing energies that bring awareness and allow those who use her products to truly radiate their own natural beauty, she incorporates natural practices, ancient methodology and aromatherapy in her skincare line. In this, Annmarie Skin Care is designed to not only soothe your physical body, but also help shape your inner beauty by invigorating the soul. One need only gaze upon Gianni herself to see this inner beauty radiating outwardly. Her skin is gorgeous!

I had the opportunity to try a few of her products. True to the claim, these products are as soothing to the senses as they are the skin, and as such are a pleasure to use.

L-R: Aloe Cleanser, Ayurvedic Scrub, Neroli Toning Mist and Honey Coconut Mask

Aloe-Herb Cleanser
This is a creamy, milky liquid in texture and appearance and smells delightfully of orange blossom. The blend of oil and extracts contains essential fatty acids, similar to those produced by the skin; it is rich in antioxidants like vitamin E, which help prevent and repair free radical damage. This is a very gentle cleanser (could be used with a Clarisonic for sure), and leaves skin refreshed, soft and moisturized. Key ingredients include organic aloe vera infused with lavender, calendula, hyssop, lemon balm, neem leaf, olive leaf, organic ruby grapefruit, lemon oil, green mandarin oil and extracts. I would think even the most sensitive of skins could use this without issue as it truly is just that gentle.

Ayurvedic Facial Scrub
This one took a little getting used to for me. It's very herbal and earthy in smell, which I generally enjoy, but this is a bit like using dirt on your face - yes, that earthy. The positive here is that it is loaded with fantastic ingredients: Moroccan Rhassoul Clay, fenugreek seeds, organic lavender, rosemary, lemon balm leaves, horsetail herb and more. It's a dry, powdery mixture that is mixed with either a bit of water or the Aloe-Herb Cleanser to concoct a paste, which is then gently massaged onto facial skin, neck, etc. The blend is designed to nourish and re-mineralize skin.

Neroli Toning Mist
This is a delightful toner that smells as lovely as it is effective. There are just two ingredients that make up this mist: love and pure organic neroli distillate (from orange blossoms). The mist is soothing, refreshing, and assists skin to return to balance.

Coconut Honey Mask
This is my star of the line. I looove this product. When you open the jar, is appears solid or like cold oil/wax would look. However, it is smoothe like a fine butter and blends to perfection onto the skin. It smells sweetly of coconut and honey, not too sweet, it's subtle. the product is so natural it's good enough to eat! The live enzymes nourish inside and out. It moisturizes skin like no other. I was truly impressed with the hydration and softness of my skin after the very first use. Honey is high in vitamin C, B vitamins and amino acids. It's also wonderful for dry elbows, knees and cracked heels and may be massaged in a left to soften without removing. It's a triumph in fabulous-ness!

I encourage you to learn more about Annmarie and her lovely line of organic skincare at her website. Annmarie Organic Skin Care is available online at Renegade Health at through specialty retailers. Most of her products retail for under $30 with the serums, oils and skincare sets available for a bit more. Enjoy!

Spa Week: This Is the Week to Get Pampered!

2011-04-10T06:02:00.001-05:00

So you want in on Spa Week. Of course you do, you work hard, take care of family, are the one everyone goes to for everything ... you deserve a luxurious treatment without breaking the bank. You've heard about the idea of Spa Week. You believe it's probably something you could take advantage of ... if ONLY you had more information.

Allow me to introduce you to this fabulous concept and all the scoop you'll need to schedule a much deserved treatment all your own in your area.

Capella Spa, Colorado

Spa Week, created in 2004, is the original, largest and most successful Spa Marketing Event in the history of the spa industry. Nearly 1000 spas across North America concluded their participation in the Fall 2010 Event, and bowing to popular demand, the Spring 2011 Event, presented by the Carefree Brand, will further expand into even more cities. Taking place from April 11th – 17th, the 14th edition of Spa Week will provide consumers across the United States and Canada with the most luxurious and wellness-focused spa treatments available for only $50 each. Day spas, medical spas, resort spas, yoga and Pilates studios, and fitness/weight-loss centers among other beauty and wellness facilities will offer 2-3 of their most exclusive services, originally costing anywhere from $100 all the way up to $500, for a discounted price of $50.

Facial at Twin Palm, Phuket

For seven years now, the signature $50 price point has afforded consumers nationwide the ability to try different treatment types at different spas, putting an end to the old myth that the spa lifestyle can only be afforded by the rich and famous. With millions still keeping a close eye on their wallets and their healthcare options, the bi-annual Spa Week Events have exposed consumers everywhere to the benefits of including spa services into their health regimen. In fact, Spa Week has proven to be so successful that well over one million affordable spa treatments have been booked and enjoyed since its inception. From stress-busting massages and holistic, immune-boosting treatments like Reiki and Acupuncture to the trendiest and glamorous of services like Botox and Eyelash Extensions, spa-goers can always find an array of services on the Spa Week menu suited to their needs. And best of all, the newly re-designed SpaWeek Gift Cards are accepted during the Spa Week Events, as well as all year long, and never expire.

In order to take advantage of Spa Week, consumers should register on SpaWeek.com for exclusive information on participating spas and their $50 treatments. Spas will book up just hours after SpaWeek.com launches on March 14th, so it is recommended that consumers book their appointments immediately.

As always, Spa Week’s goal is to open up the spa industry to the masses by making spa treatments accessible and affordable to all. Aligned with their commitment to reaching the next generation of spa-goers and infusing much-needed new blood into the industry, Spa Week maintains the most popular and active spa page on Facebook, a well-read off-beat spa blog, a Mobile App for iPhone & Android, and introduced the world to an edgy spa video that stirred up some controversy in this otherwise relatively quiet industry. You can even take a quick view of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's).

Never too soon to schedule as these offers book quickly. Go ahead and do the body good (and the mental state, and the emotional state, and yes, even the soul), and schedule a self-designed spa experience for yourself now. I give you permission! xo

Time for Another Giveaway: Dr. Dennis Gross Hydra-Pure Vitamin C Brightening Serum

2011-04-09T12:12:00.001-05:00

Let's celebrate this beautiful spring day with another giveaway. This one comes from world-renowned dermatologist Dr. Dennis Gross. There's a huge wait list to get in as a patient, so here's your opportunity to experience his brilliance without the wait. And .... this particular product comes from his Hydra Pure line. I'm a huge fan of Hydra Pure ... very effective. The Intense Moisture Cream with its chelating properties is absolutely fantastic. But I digress, you want to know about the product up for giveaway, right? Right!

Here's Hydra Pure Vitamin C Brightening Serum, a cruelty-free, vegan, and paraben-free intensive anti-aging nighttime treatment. The serum helps to fights sun damage, increase skin luminosity, and build collagen for a noticeably firmer and more youthful appearance. This potent serum includes an 18% Vitamin C complex to combat free radicals, and Dr. Gross' proprietary Chelating Complex (a blend of detoxifying compounds that protect skin from harmful elements) to neutralize harmful elements left behind by tap water and perspiration. Let me tell you, the chelating is powerful and is a huge benefit of this product.

Who Is It For? Anyone seeking a powerful serum that fights aging and brightens skin. Those concerned with skin dullness, texture, dark spots, and sun damage will experience visible improvement and brightening with this innovative treatment.

Why Is It Different? Contains three forms of Vitamin C--SAP, Vitamin C Ester, and Vitamin C--to protect against sun damage and increase the serum's absorptive power. This effective Vitamin C complex builds collagen, reduces wrinkles, fades dark spots, and restores skin's youthful appearance and radiance.

How Do I Use It? In the PM, smooth serum over clean, dry skin on face, neck, and décolleté. Follow with moisturizer if needed.

Sound fabulous? It is! Here's how you can win:

1) Follow DGSkincare and For the Love of Beauty (aka ftlob) on Twitter;
2) Like Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare and For the Love of Beauty (Roxy Howe) on Facebook;
3) Finally, leave a comment below letting me know why you'd like to try Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare's Hydra Pure Vitamin C Brightening Serum and include your email so I may contact the winner for shipping address.

You may also view and enter directly as a Twitter follower under the tag #dgskincarelove

post: "Enter @dgskincare HydraPure Vitamin C Serum Giveaway @ftlob Follow both and RT to enter! #dgskincarelove"

Retail value of this prize is approximately $95. Open to residents of the USA only this giveaway. Winner will be chosen at random. One prize will be awarded to one winner. Good luck! xo

Learn more about Dr. Dennis Gross and his gorgeous products by visiting his online web page. More info may be gleaned from dgskincare on facebook and through retailers who carry his line.

Treat Yourself with a Free Full-Sized Item from Bliss

2011-04-07T07:10:00.012-05:00

Have you treated yourself to anything from bliss spa lately? No?

Well even if you have treated yourself lately, you'll want to mozy on over to bliss online today as they've got a sweet gift for you. Mother's Day is coming up .... can't think of a mom I know who wouldn't appreciate a little bliss in their lives.

Purchase any two bliss bath + body products, get the third free of equal or lesser value.

Click link and enter code: BATHBODY

Valid 4/7/11 and 4/8/11

WINNERS: Pureology Hydrate Giveaway

2011-04-04T08:10:00.000-05:00

Thank you to all those who entered the Pureology Hydrate Shampoo & Conditioner Giveaway via the site here and on Twitter. Please continue to view as there is another great giveaway opportunity coming before the end of the week.

Congratulations to our winners

haircarelover

patty0749

anna d.

mindee7

mildasw

Winners were chosen at random. Please check your emails, ladies, and send me your shipping information so I can send out your Pureology goodies. You are going to loooove this line. xo

Trish McEvoy Says Hello to Spring with Love

2011-03-23T07:02:00.002-05:00

Here's a collection sure to pull at your heartstrings, if for no other reason then because it sounds so completely divine. Trish McEvoy's new limited edition Love Fragrance Collection is sure to leave a touch of sweetness in the air, on your skin, and yes, even on your lips!

Love will envelop you in the delicate fragrance of No. 9 Blackberry & Vanilla Musk Eau de Parfum and Super Enriched Body Cream while the Wild Blueberry Vanilla Candle burns gently to soothe your soul. My senses are already desperate to experience these pieces. Add to that the Seduction Flawless Lip Color as the finishing touch of beauty and elegance to complete a romantic aura leaving those who adorn completely irresistible. Sweet, sensual, and undeniably one of the most loving collections of beauty a woman can get her hands on this spring, the Love Fragrance Collection is a the perfect assortment of pleasure. Would make a perfect Mother's Day gift, n'est pas?

Trish McEvoy’s The Love Fragrance Collection, set to retail at $90, will be available beginning April 18th at TrishMcEvoy.com. Can't wait!

Haven't Tried Lancôme’s Génifique Yet? What Are You Waiting For?

2011-03-22T14:47:00.001-05:00

Génifique has been a runaway hit since its launch in 2009—and with good reason. The lightweight concentrate melts onto skin, wears beautifully under makeup, works on every age and skin type and most importantly, delivers visibly radiant skin in just seven days. Since trying this product when it first debuted, I'm never without a bottle. Yes, it's just that good!

And here's your opportunity to try this amazing concentrate absolutely free. All throughout March, Lancôme will be offering deluxe, seven-day samples via their Facebook page. Here’s how it works:

1) Visit www.facebook.com/lancome

2) Not a fan yet? Then click “like” and you’ll be directed to the Génifique experience and offered a coupon for the deluxe sample. Already a fan? Then click directly on the Génifique tab on the left to get started. You can redeem the printed coupon at any Lancôme counter in the U.S.

3) Now for the fun part! After entering your info, you’ll be invited to compliment a friend. Your friend gets a feel-good message on their Facebook news feed, anything from “you’re gorgeous!” to “you’re an amazing sister!”, and gets her own deluxe seven-day supply of Génifique

Soooooo ..... what you waiting for? Not much time left in March. Get clickin'! :~ D

Tibi x Bobbi Brown Collaborate for a Fab Giveaway

2011-03-22T07:20:00.000-05:00

Could there BE a better giveaway to announce the arrival of Spring? Me thinks not. Just look at this prize giveaway, with spring's hot shades and patterns brimming from every which way you look. I am drooling at the thought of winning. And though I considered not sharing as the less of you who enter, the better my own chances of winning, I just couldn't keep it in.

So here are the deets. The winner will receive a custom, one-of-a-kind Tibi Peony & Python dress AND all pieces from the Bobbi Brown makeup collection including the eyeshadow palette, beauty case, blush, lipgloss, eyeliner and brushes. Sweet!

To enter:

1) Like Tibi and Bobbi Brown on Facebook

2) Follow Tibi on Bloglovin

3) Follow @TibiPR and @askBobbiBrown on Twitter

4) Tweet "I just entered the Tibi / Bobbi Brown contest" (the more you do, the more entries you get)

5) Send facebook@Tibi.com your email address and which of the above you have done

Must enter by March 30th and the winner will be announced Thursday, March 31, 2011.

You can learn more about the Tibi Peony & Python collection here and Bobbi Brown's gorgeous Peony & Python collection here. Enjoy!

DIY Cucumber Mint Spa Water

2011-03-21T07:18:00.000-05:00

Here's a fab little do-it-yourself treat that does the body good - literally. This particular recipe earned lots of praise with the rise in popularity of the Flat Belly Diet in 2008 as "Sassy Water". For those who don't like the taste of plain old water, this may just change your mind about making water drinking a pleasurable, refreshing activity.

Ingredients:

2 liters water (about 8 1/2 cups)

1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

1 medium cucumber peeled and thinly sliced

1 medium lemon thinly sliced

12 small spearmint leaves

Directions:

Mix all the ingredients together in a pitcher

Refrigerate overnight

Strain water

Enjoy over ice cubes

Add mint sprig for garnish (optional)

Cynthia Sass

Cynthia Sass, MPH, MA, RD, former Nutrition Director for Prevention, created the recipe for Sassy Water while developing the Flat Belly Diet with Lisa Vaccariello. Here's a bit more about how these ingredients break down in goodness.

Ginger contains high concentrations of antioxidants and helps soothe the intestinal tract and digestion. Benefits of ginger come from very potent anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols. These substances can help relieve swelling and inflammation, and are also know to aid in reducing nausea. Gingerols also said to help reduce pain caused by muscle aches, headaches and rheumatism. Ginger is a good source of potassium, magnesium, copper, manganese and vitamin B6. Because it's so concentrated, it doesn't take a lot to receive the health benefits. As an immune booster, ginger may not only be warming on a cold day, but can help promote healthy sweating. A good sweat may can assist in detoxification. Some studies suggest ginger may even actually help inhibit growth of cancer cells.

Cucumber flesh is primarily composed of water but also contains ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and caffeic acid, both of which help soothe skin irritations and reduce swelling. Cucumbers are rich in fiber and contain a variety of beneficial minerals including silica, potassium and magnesium. Cucumber juice is often recommended as a source of silica to improve the complexion and health of the skin, plus cucumber's high water content makes it naturally hydrating—a must for glowing skin. Cucumbers are also used topically for various types of skin problems, including swelling under the eyes and sunburn. Two compounds in cucumbers, ascorbic acid and caffeic acid, prevent water retention, which may explain why cucumbers applied topically are often helpful for swollen eyes, burns and dermatitis.

Like many of the fruits and vegetables featured on our website, lemons and limes contain unique flavonoid compounds that have antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. In addition to their unique phytonutrient properties, lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, one of the most important antioxidants in nature. Vitamin C is one of the main antioxidants found in food and the primary water-soluble antioxidant in the body. Vitamin C travels through the body neutralizing free radicals. Free radicals can interact with the healthy cells of the body, damaging them and their membranes, and also cause a lot of inflammation, or painful swelling, in the body. This is one of the reasons that vitamin C has been shown to be helpful for reducing some of the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. As with other fruits of its kind, lemons are said to help reduce risk of cancer, heart disease and stroke. Lemon is also a diuretic. This means it is good for people with urinary tract infections and high uric acid problems, such as those with arthritis or rheumatism because it helps flush out all the toxins and bad bacteria.

Spearmint is a pleasantly aromatic herb packed with numerous health benefiting vitamins, antioxidants and phyto-nutrients. The chief essential oil in spearmint is menthol. Other important chemical components of spearmint are α-pinene, β-pinene, carvone, cineole, linalool, limonene, myrcene and caryophyllene. These compounds in mint help relieve fatigue and stress. The herb parts are also very good in minerals like potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, and magnesium. Iron is required for enzymes in cellular metabolism and synthesis of hemoglobin. Potassium in an important component of cell and body fluids that helps control heart rate and blood pressure. It is also rich in many antioxidant vitamins including vitamin A, beta carotene, vitamin C, folates, vitamin B-6, riboflavin and thiamin. Spearmint is said to be an excellent remedy for minor ailments such as headaches, nervous strain, fatigue and stress, as well as for the respiratory problems; helping with asthma and bronchitis. It is thought to aid with digestive problems including nausea, flatulence and hiccups as it relaxes the stomach muscles.

Ok, more information than perhaps you needed to know when contemplating the concocting of an at-home spa drink, but as the ingredients are far more powerful than a casual nod would suggest I decided to give you the whole kit and kaboodle on it.

Enjoy!

sources: world's healthiest foods, livestrong, glo, Cynthia Sass, nutrition and you

Stila Amazing Free Gift Event Today Only on Bloom!

2011-03-19T15:28:00.000-05:00

Secret Saturday free gift event by Bloom Circle is from Stila today and it's a doozy of a goodun! Just stopping by to share the goodness real quickly as couldn't keep this one all to myself. It's the Stila Red Carpet Limited Edition Palette, which contains six gorgeous Stila eyeshadows, a shimmer powder, cheek color and lip glaze plus seven extra Stila Lip Glazes - FREE - with any purchase of $70 or more at Bloom Circle.

Bloom Circle offers fabulous products from our favorite beauty brands including CARGO, Clarisonic, Jane Iredale, Ole Henriksen, Kinerase, Redken, REN Skincare (Wow! really? fabulous!), Sircuit Cosmeceuticals, Tigi, Stila and many more! You'll be blown away by what they offer and how discounted the pricing is. It's an idea that's catching on very quickly.

You must be a Bloom Circle member to take advantage of their special pricing and free gift offers, however membership is completely free and includes vouchers for future purchases. (How can you lose?) I love this place. Is a beauty lovers paradise.

Click here for Bloom Circle

Stila Free Gift ($178 value) Code: sti319

Offer ends Sunday, 3/20/11 or while supplies last.

(They go quickly so don't dawdle)

REVIEW: A Beautiful Life's Honey'do Shampoo & Conditioner

2011-03-18T09:10:00.001-05:00

Are these adorable or what?

Award-winning boutique A Beautiful Life has launched a unique line of organic honey infused haircare. Honey'do Shampoo and Honey'do Conditioner are sweet treats for the hair, imparting fantastic hydration, shine and manageability.

The shampoo is sulfate and paraben free, so it doesn't lather immensely, which we all know by now is actually a good thing for hair! It does, however, gently cleanse hair without stripping and its light formula smells subtly of tangerine - an ABL signature (their iconic All Nighter Hair Powder smells of tangerine loveliness as well). The conditioner is thick in its honey bear bottle yet surprisingly light in texture. It may be used as an instant conditioner or leave on a little longer for a deeply hydrating treatment. I recommend turning the little honey bear conditioner upside down in the shower when storing as the conditioner will dispense easier. I love how gentle these formulas are on my hair and how soft and shiny it leaves it. As with most products I bring home that are worth their weight in gold, my daughter has "stolen" these gems for her own use. I've taken to have to hide them in my room (shhhhh!). Whatcha gonna do ...

Listen to some of the extracts in this 'poo/conditioner combo: ivy extract, rosemary extract, tangerine essential oil. Both products are formulated with organic honey, which is what imparts moisture, shine, softness and manageability to even very dry hair.

These light formulas are a pleasure to use, sweetly sensory with their tangerine essence and a complete delight for hair. Tony and Jennifer have hit it on the mark yet again. Is there anything this power couple in beauty chicness can't do?

Honey'do Shampoo and Honey'do Conditioner retail for $16 each ($30 for the duo) and are both available exclusively through A Beautiful Life. Check them out ... you'll be amazed at all the fun, gorgeous items this trendy boutique offers!

Calling All Philosophy Girls: Gift Set SALE!

2011-03-11T07:05:00.001-06:00

Select philosophy gift sets are on sale today, but for one day only! If you're a philosophy girl (waves hands in air) now is a great time to stock up on some favorites or even stash a few kits away as gifts for impromptu occasions. See a kit that includes a product you're dying to try? Grab it and gift away the products you don't want as little thank you's to friends and family.

Why?

Cuz 40% off these lovelies is a darn good deal!

Visit philosophy online, select your kits from the options shown and enter this special offer code at checkout: 40offgifts . This special is for one day only, March 11th, or until supplies run out. Enjoy!

Chantecaille Spring 2011: Sea Turtle Palette and Tiger in the Wild (Revisited)

2011-03-10T07:49:00.000-06:00

Enchanting! That's what comes to mind when I think of Chantecaille. Once again, Olivia Chantecaille charms us with her delightful palettes that create experiences of both elegance and feeling good about the purchase.

Universally flattering, the Sea Turtle Palette ($78) features two eye colors in Soft Pearl and Golden Brown, a deep Emerald liner and a pink cheek shade. The formula is made with the highest quality pearl and pigment particles. The two eye shades reflect the golden warmth of new spring neutrals complimented by an on trend deep sea green eye defining shade. The perfect coral/pink cheek color offers a universally flattering flush of rosy warmth.

Click image to watch the Making of the Spring Look 2011 video

Chantecaille is partnering with Dr. Karen Eckert of the WIDECAST Organization, focused on saving sea turtles in North, South and Central America and the Caribbean. 5% of proceeds from this palette will help WIDECAST ensure the survival of sea turtles.

Tiger in the Wild ($78) was carefully selected to go with Fall Trends and includes eyeshades in Cream, Pewter and Indigo, as well as a flattering sheer persimmon cheek shade, however these shades are divinely perfect for this year's Spring as well.

Click image to watch backstage beauty for Christopher Kane, London Fashion Week A/W 2011 using Tiger in the Wild Palette

To celebrate and raise awareness for the wild tiger, Chantecaille has created a limited-edition palette with a selection of easy-to-wear cheek and eye shades with an elegant tiger embossing. While the world celebrates the Year of the Tiger, the plight of this majestic animal continues. In fact, this celebration of the tiger places it in a more perilous situation. Tigers are poached, hunted and exterminated for profit. 5% of the proceeds benefit TRAFFIC .

Chantecaille Sea Turtle Palette and Tiger in the Wild Palette are both available at Space.NK and Nordstrom.

CEW Eco Beauty Award: Sending Love to Two of My Faves

2011-03-09T19:24:00.000-06:00

I spy with my little eye a couple of my very favorite eco-friendly skincare brands up for the 2011 CEW Eco Beauty Award and I couldn't be more thrilled for them.

Pomega5's Healing Cream
I can't speak highly enough of Pomega5, their committment to quality, eco-friendly products and to providing their customers with a superb multi-sensory experience. Healing Cream is the star of the Pomega5 line as a gentle, nourishing moisturizer to comfort sensitive skin. This rich botanical recipe combines Omega 5 with soothing, restorative oils of carrot seed, calendula and grape seed to create an energetic shield to combat penetration of impurities, and a harmonious symphony of ingredients that nourish and "sing to the soul" (indeed it does). This cream also contains gorgeous shea butter. Formulated with 99% active ingredients and over 40% Omega oils, every element in this unique moisturizer works to improve the skin, inclusive of the botanical preservative and emulsification system. You guys know I'm a sucker for pomegranate seed oil in skincare. It's all thanks to Pomega5 that this is so. This cream contains pomegranate cold-pressed from the seeds within the juice-filled arils. It is rich in rare Omega 5 essential fatty acid. It also proves to be a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, promotes cell renewal, stimulates collagen production, protects against sun damage, reduces redness, and heals irritations. Sublime!

Amala Beauty's Rejuvenate Line
The Rejuvenate collection firms, smoothes lines and renews elasticity with Cocoa Bean, known for its unique ability to stimulate cell renewal and microcirculation. It's all about the cocoa bean in Amala's Rejuvenate collection. Their Rejuvenate Cleansing Milk washes away dirt, makeup and impurities while rejuvenating skin with this gentle, nourishing cleanser. The whole plant ingredients in the milky smooth formula help strengthen and smooth leaving skin healthy and even toned. Whole plant ingredients infuse their Rejuvenating Serum as well, including a powerful antioxidant trio of pure Vitamin C-rich Acerola, Sea Algae and Cocoa Bean. The serum naturally repairs skin while protecting it from environmental and free radical age damage. And ... their certified organic Cocoa Bean is cultivated in the Huallaga region of Peru by an expert fair trade partner in the area.

Both Pomega5 and Amala offer absolutely beautiful, gorgeous skincare, that are as effective in use as they are soothing to the soul. Highly recommend without hesitation! Pomega5 products may be purchased directly through their website and soon you'll find them at Bliss Spa. Amala Beauty may be found at Spirit Beauty Lounge, whose shopping experience is like buying nectar from the gods. Yes, it's that fabulous.

Enjoy!

Vote Now: Total Beauty 2011 Reader's Choice Beauty Awards

2011-03-09T07:20:00.001-06:00

Calling all beauty addicts and those with even a small penchant for beauty! Total Beauty's 2011 Reader's Choice Awards are now open for voting and they want to know your top choices.

Total Beauty has 62 categories of beauty products up for awards. And while their editors are testing products for the "Rising Star Editors' Picks" (selected from newer-to-the-market products), they're inviting you to name the "Readers' Choice" winners. As a bonus, you'll earn five points for EACH vote you cast. Points help you snag great product freebies, exclusive deals and more! Hurry -- voting ends April 1!

Vote Now: Total Beauty 2011 Reader's Choice Beauty Awards

HAUTELOOK: Stila on Sale!

2011-03-08T07:02:00.009-06:00

Created in 1994 by a top celebrity makeup artist, Stila is known for its modern, sophisticated, non-intimidating approach to beauty. The brand's innovative, multi-tasking formulas, eco-friendly packaging, and fashion-forward colors have cemented its place on must-have lists of top beauty editors around the world. The prestige color brand is a regular on the pages of magazines like Allure and InStyle, and frequents the runways of top designers during New York fashion week. Stila's goal is to help every woman celebrate her own unique beauty; to look and feel like the best version of herself; and to have fun doing it.

This has been a much beloved brand of mine for years. My favorite of all eyeliners, Stila Smudgesticks, are always is my makeup bag, a drawer or two at the office and in my handbag. Of course their Kitten eyeshadow is iconic and blends beautifully on the lid, flattering all eye colors. Loooove 'em!

Enjoy the Stila sale today at Hautelook beginning at 8 am PT. Click the link below to sign up (membership is FREE) and buy your goodies!

Take me to Hautelook

SkincareRx Beauty Caches Are Back

2011-03-07T20:03:00.000-06:00

Oh my gosh what an incredible deal! 'Tis just one of many reasons why I love SkincareRx. They've just launched their first of four Limited Edition Beauty Caches. If you are unfamiliar with the SkincareRx Beauty Cache it is a bag with 1-2 full size products and 8-10 deluxe size products (usually a few weeks worth of product). The cache also comes complete with a $20 gift card to use on your next purchase (over $75). This gives all we beauty lovers the ability to try the high end skincare products to see if it works for our skin before we commit to the higher price of the full-size products. I love these little opportunities!

The bag has a very limited supply and will sell out fast. You may opt to Enroll for Auto Ship of the bag, which guarantees you’ll receive every new Beauty Cache the moment they’re available.
This chic cosmetic bag is perfect for carrying your must-have beauty products with you wherever you go. It includes a variety of cosmetics, hand and body care, and treatments for aging, acne-prone, and sensitive skin. The contents of each cache will vary, however you can check here for all the details about what to expect. You can also check the reviews on the caches as they are 4 and 5 stars just about across the board.

The Beauty Caches are offered at $29.95 and may purchased through SkincareRx. Enjoy!

Katy Perry Announced as New Face of ghd

2011-03-07T18:24:00.002-06:00

photo: metrolyrics

World leading professional hair styling brand ghd announced today the signing of music sensation Katy Perry as the new face of the brand. The association will kick off over the next few months with an exciting new multimedia global brand campaign recently shot by world renowned photographer David La Chapelle.

"Katy is the epitome of modern fashion and styling. Her unique, ever changing looks are the envy of style devotees around the world. Katy completely embodies ghd’s spirit of female transformation and empowerment, as she is recognised as a cutting edge style icon unafraid to push fashion and beauty boundaries. Sassy, stylish and sexy, Katy is the perfect partner for ghd,” says Paul Stoneham, Chief Executive Officer, ghd.

“I'm so excited to be working with ghd, especially using their tools on my California Dreams Tour to get me stage ready. ghd products have a reputation of being the best products in the biz, and I like being associated with that. I'm very excited to reveal the styles I did with legendary David LaChapelle in the upcoming ghd campaign. Keep your eyes peeled for it!” shares Perry in regards to the announcement.

Rounding out the partnership, ghd has signed to become an International Tour Sponsor for Perry’s forthcoming “California Dreams 2011” tour, and plans to involve its talented professional hair stylist ambassadors in concert-related events throughout the world.

ghd (Good Hair Day) is an iconic British, professionally endorsed hair styling brand, available only through exclusive premier salons, ghd and a few select retailers. ghd was awarded Best Hair Styler for the 8th year running at the InStyle Beauty Awards on February 1, 2011.

Be on the lookout for more news and media highlights about the Katy Perry x ghd collaboration soon to come.

Double Seven Nightclub Fetes Muse Magazine's Fabio Covi and Luigi Murenu

2011-03-07T17:55:00.000-06:00

Jeffrey Jah, co-owner of New York nightclub The Double Seven, hosted a party for fashion magazine Muse Thursday, March 3rd at the Royal Monceau Hotel in the City of Lights. The nightclub aficionado organized the celebration in honor of Muse magazine's editor Fabio Covi and hair stylist Luigi Murenu to celebrate their 25th issue.

L-R: Guest, Ana Dello Russo, Luigi Murenu; Isabeli Fontana; Luigi Murenu and Natasha Poly

Fashion's top runway top models were all in attendance including Isabeli Fontana, Natasha Poly and Joan Smalls. We hear runway star Rie Rasmussen and a fetching of other catwalkers created quite the commotion when they began an impromptu photo shoot (sans tops) at the front door of the party. Kanye West’s muse, Italian fashionista Anna Dello Russo’s got quite the shock when she stopped by to kick off Paris Fashion Week.

Me? I just like the glitz and photos. Ha.

Lancome's March Special Offers

2011-03-07T16:18:00.000-06:00

Lancome has the BEST gifts with purchase, sample kits and special offers of just about all prestige beauty brands. Celebrating March, Lancome is offering FIVE (5) Full Size Lipsticks ($124 value) with your purchase of $35 or more! Click the link for offer and use code: MARCHBDAY at checkout. Offer ends March 31st.

Now interested in the lippies and want another March special offer instead? Receive a 3-Piece Sample Collection AND Free Shipping with any $35 purchase! Click the link and use code: MARSPECIAL at checkout for this special. Offer ends March 30th.

Or a 4-Piece Sample Collection AND Free Shipping with any $45 purchase! Click link and use code: AMARCH at checkout for this special. Offer ends March 31st.

And of course, you always enjoy free shipping at Lancome with your $50 or more purchases. Enjoy spring, my loves! xo

Award Winning Pureology Hydrate + Giveaway

2011-03-07T13:14:00.002-06:00

This makes my heart sing. Pureology's Hydrate system is up for About.com's 2011 Readers' Choice Award for Best Shampoo. Pureology's Hydrate Shampoo and Hydrate Conditioner have taken awards for years; among their top winnings Favorite Prestige Shampoo, Favorite Prestige Conditioner, Favorite Color Protecting Product and more through the hair industry's prestigious Behind the Chair Stylist Awards (2010). And, they're up for awards again this year! It's also up for TotalBeauty's 2011 Beauty Awards for Best Shampoo. Vote your pick here!

Readers have heard me extoll praise of Pureology as a prestige haircare brand and in particular their Hydrate products for years, so no surprise I voted for these lovelies in the open ballots. Feels great to swim in the pool of fans, stylists especially, who also appreciate the fabulous-ness of this system.

As one who spends a fortune on color-treatment [all well worth it, Kirstin, (my stylist), not complaining], I am really thankful for a shampoo and conditioner that not only treats my hair well for moisturization and health but helps conserve the color. Now that I'm a quasi-redhead (ok, with a few blonde highlights), I especially appreciate the color protection Pureology offers as red has a tendency to fade and lose integrity more quickly than other shades.
Visit Pureology.com to learn all about Hydrate and their other gorgeous lines of haircare products. And for a chance to be one of five (5) winners to have this extraordinary system delivered straight to your doorstep, please enter the giveaway below courtesy of Pureology and For the Love of Beauty.

To enter the giveaway:

1) Follow Pureology and For the Love of Beauty (aka ftlob) on Twitter;
2) Like Pureology and For the Love of Beauty (Roxy Howe) on Facebook;
3) Finally, leave a comment below letting me know why you'd like to try Pureology Hydrate and include your email so I may contact the winners for shipping addresses.

That's it! You may also view and enter directly as a Twitter follower under the tag #pureologylove. One set of Pureology Hydrate Shampoo and Hydrate Conditioner will be awarded to five lucky winners. Contest open to residents of USA only this time. Will have more giveaways for my international friends soon, please visit again. xo

Beautybloggers.org Charity Auction Just in Time for the Holidays

2010-12-13T11:21:00.000-06:00

Beautybloggers.org is the brainchild of the fabulous Karla Sugar. Many of us feel very blessed to have the opportunity to do something we love (whether hobby or career), try the products we try and share that information with those who either take a gander at our blogs or have become regular readers. In the spirit of giving back, beautybloggers.org was created to progress an avenue to give a little something back to those in need.

BeautyBloggers.org is the collaboration of almost 50 different beauty bloggers and brands. At this holiday time, we wanted to make a meaningful contribution to charity — knowing that the most effective donation to any charity is cash.

So we’re putting our makeup, skincare and other beauty items on the auction block. Winning bids will be donated directly to Doctors Without Borders.

Karla came up with the magnificent thought to make DWB our charity of choice, and I'm delighted to participate in this effort. This organization is committed to bringing quality medical care to people in crisis, regardless of race, religion, or political affiliation. They treat rape victims in Papua New Guinea; they make sure women don’t die in childbirth in Pakistan; they helped flood victims in Mexico and earthquake victims in Haiti. They work in 65 countries around the world, and your donation will make an immediate impact. Click here to learn more about Doctors Without Borders.

The auction is live now, and will close on Monday, December 20 at 5 pm CST. We are asking people to register before they can bid. This is simply to try to discourage "spam" bids. Usernames will be public (because the auction shows the username of the current highest bidder), but first name, last name, and email address will be private. They will only be used to contact the winning bidders. And, yes, international bidders are welcome, too!

Now is the time as there are only a few days left. Pick up great gifts of beauty for those you love donated from over 50 beauty bloggers and beauty companies and feel good knowing your winning bids are going directly to charity. Click on beautybloggers.org to see all the great options and to place your winning bid. Bloggers will be working hard to get your items shipped to you in time for gift giving. We're not taking a penny of the money. It all goes to charity!

Donating Beauty Bloggers and Companies:

Afrobella, A Girl's Gotta Spa!, AlyWalansky.com, Armani Beauty, Bay Area Style File, Beauté Cosmetics, Beauty Alchemist, The Beauty Look Book, Bobbi Brown, Cafe Makeup, Cargo, China Glaze, EnKore, Estee Lauder, For the Love of Beauty, Givenchy, Gloss Menagerie, Gouldylox Reviews, Grace Gold for AOL StyleList, KarlaSugar, KraseyBeauty, Lancome, Leonor Greyl, The Makeup Girl, Miss Whoever You Are, Musings of a Muse, My Lips But Better, Nadine Jolie, The Non-Blonde, Older Girl Beauty, OPI, Out in a Pout, Pink Sith, Prime Beauty, Product Girl, Pursebuzz, Renee Rouleau, Sasquatch Swatch, Sicka Than Average, Spoiled Pretty, Talika, Three Custom Color Specialists, and Votre Vu

Sephora: Free Clutch + Samples ... Yummy!

2010-11-12T11:14:00.000-06:00

Who can resist a booty of free beauty samples, especially when packed inside a chic and oh so useable little clutch bag? Not I ... now only to decide what I want to purchase to get it.

Free with any $25 Sephora online purchase. The clutch is equipped with four pockets (perfect to keep your cell phone hidden), has a glossy black finish, loaded with 12 fab samples from great beauty brands. These are the kinds of promos that speak to me!

Hurry ... supplies won't last long for this one! Check sephora.com for all the deets.

Hoping to get back to beauty blogging soon and I apologize it's been so slow, hit and miss. I've some absolutely fantastic products to tell you about in reviews. Been so busy at the office! : (

xo

The 3 C's: Estee Lauder Brands Raise Funds for Breast Cancer Awareness

2010-10-23T14:36:00.002-05:00

Estée Lauder Companies’ 2010 Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign has launched a bold and provocative campaign theme entitled: Connect. Communicate. Conquer. Prevent Breast Cancer. One Woman at a Time. Wear It. Share It. The Pink Ribbon. This new campaign draws its inspiration from Mrs. Estée Lauder’s “High-Touch” method of reaching consumers through “Telephone, Telegraph, Tell-A-Woman.” Their approach to conquering breast cancer reinterprets this powerful messaging into a philanthropic mission for today’s modern and fast-paced culture.
Today, we are making more progress than ever and reaching more people each year with the message that if localized breast cancer is detected early, it’s 98% curable. While the American Cancer Society estimates more than 1.3 million people worldwide were diagnosed with breast cancer, the good news is that mortality rates continue to fall, and we believe this is due in part to better treatments, early detection and greater awareness of the importance of breast health. But we must continue to persist and pursue, and raise as much money for research as possible, to attain what we all believe is possible in our lifetime – a world without breast cancer.

This month, October, 14 of Estée Lauders brands will be selling 20 fabulous beauty products to raise funds for The Breast Cancer Research Foundation® (BCRF), an independent, not-for-profit organization that is dedicated to funding breast cancer research and currently supports 173 researchers around the world. (To learn more about BCRF, visit www.bcrfcure.org). These wonderful products cover all beauty categories -- Skin care, Makeup, Fragrance and Hair care – and include products from brands such as La Mer, Bobbi Brown, Clinique, Jo Malone, Aveda, Bumble + Bumble, Lab Series, Origins and more. Evelyn Lauder, Senior Corporate Vice President of The Estée Lauder Companies and Founder and Chairman of The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, along with celebrity spokesperson Elizabeth Hurley, have also designed special lip collections to raise funds.

Aveda Hand Relief $21
One of my favorite hand creams ever! Incredibly rich moisture therapy soothes dry hands, leaving them noticeably softer and smoother. Hydrating plant-derived emollients, humectants, exfoliating fruit acids as well as antioxidants, including vitamins A and E, help diminish signs of aging and provide optimal relief. Donation is $4.00 from each sale of the Breast Cancer Awareness Hand Relief, with a maximum donation of $300,000.

Bobbi Brown Pink Shimmer Brick Compact $38
Exclusive, limited-edition Pink Shimmer Brick Compact. Hand-made in Italy, each brick contains five bars of iridescent color. Sweep it along cheekbones, lids or allover for a fresh, soft pink glow. Donation to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation $35,000 in connection with the North American sales. All Bobbi Brown counters in the USA and bobbibrown.com. Limited-edition release beginning in October 2010.

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing $35
It has become a Clinique tradition to offer a special limited-edition bottle of its best-selling Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion. This year's edition features a collectable Clinique key ring with a Pink Ribbon heart charm and Clinique "C" charm. $10.00 per this special-edition Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion sold during the month of October, while supplies last.

DKNY Be Delicious Fresh Blossom Coffret $38
Be sweet. Be playful. Satisfy your every mood. The DKNY Be Delicious/Fresh Blossom Coffret is perfect for the tried and true who want to take their favorites on the go. $15,000 to be donated to Breat Cancer Research Foundation.

Estee Lauder Pink Ribbon Collections $25 each
The Evelyn Lauder Lip Design Collection and the Elizabeth Hurley Lip Design Collection - both available at Estee Lauder. Every purchase from this collection helps raise awareness, but does not affect our donation to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Estée Lauder will make a $500,000 donation to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Check here for more beauty products available through this campaign, as well as to learn more about Breast Cancer Awareness and this event!

Connect with everyone you know and Communicate the importance of breast health and early detection to Conquer this disease one woman at a time!

Bluemercury: New for Fall!

2010-10-22T06:40:00.003-05:00

Head on over the bluemercury to take a gander at the lovelies in store for Fall 2010 in the category of .... Beauty!

NARS
Soft Touch Shadow Pencils provide easy, portable, long-wearing application. These jumbo sized pencils have versatile functionality to shade the lid, line, or highlight the eye. $24 each

Smooth, creamy texture delivers a smooth, velvety feel to the eye and make for easy blending and an ideal base for layering with a powder shadow for increased color intensity.

• Portable application
• Smooth, creamy, long-wearing formula
• Easy and seamless blending
• Ideal base for layering with powder eyeshadow to increase color intensity

BOBBI BROWN
Voted "Best Eye Shadow" by Self (2008). Bobbi's Metallic Eye Shadows are now available in a broad range of pastel to bold shades. Their high-shimmer, high-pigment formula applies smoothly and evenly and stays crease free for long-lasting wear. New shades: Black Berry, Black Charcoal, Black Cocoa $20

LAURA MERCIER
Laura Mercier Sequin Eye Colour has soft-sparkle effects that glisten and captivates. The deep-impact shades can be swept over eyes softly for a stunning day look, or applied with more intensity for evening glamour. $22

TRISH MCEVOY
Lip-conditioning formula cushions while delivering the perfect amount of buildable color with a semi-matte, non-drying finish in Natural, the first of many timeless shades to come in Trish’s highly anticipated and here-to-stay Classic Lip Color Collection. New shades: Natural 22 and Vibrant 31 $23

TOCCA Kona Candle - Bluemercury Exclusive!
An exclusive candle created by Marla, Bluemercury's Founder. Marla found inspiration in her childhood family trips to Hawaii and the quaint Kona coast and its glorious waterfalls and exotic black sand beaches with rushing lava flowing straight into the ocean from the Hualalai volcano. Kona's essence creates your own tropical paradise with refreshing scents of coconut and hibiscus. $36

See all the new collections, pieces and products for Fall 2010 at chic, trendy, gorgeous bluemercury!

Exercise in Happiness: Spirit Beauty Lounge Sample Packages

2010-10-20T08:21:00.000-05:00

Another site you MUST check out for a sweet variety of sample packages at a ridiculously low price is Spirit Beauty Lounge! If you're a reader of ftlob, you know I adore this store and for so many reasons! They are committed to organic and green beauty brands and offer really the finest there is in skincare, fragrance, cosmetics, haircare and other beauty products. Their customer service is second to none!

Spirit and her team will cater a sample package specifically to your liking and it will come prettily packaged with love and goodness directly to you. I've found so many wonderful brands and products through her sample packages I'd never have probably tried otherwise.

You can choose to include a sample from just about any item in the store: fragrance, makeup, haircare, skincare ... they'll do you up a nice little deluxe trial. Or, you can allow the team to create a sample box specific to your heart's desire, needs, wants and/or concerns. Most of the sample packages are offered at $10, which is almost ridiculously low considering the variety of products you'll receive, the quality and the amount.

Do something good for yourself and check it out! Consider it an exercise in happiness. xo

Total Beauty Mini Sized Products for Trial

2010-10-20T07:00:00.002-05:00

Oh wow, I had no idea they were doing this now!

FYI, my angels, Total Beauty now has mini and travel-sized products for sale at very low prices for their members so you can try products that sound good before you commit to buying the full-size. What a wonderful idea. And ... it looks like you get free shipping to boot. Here's some of what's up on the Total Beauty Sample page now:

SKYN ICELAND OXYGEN INFUSION NIGHT CREAM
4 week supply - $13

A gentle, emollient night cream infused with natural extracts and nurturing bioactive elements.

Designed to work with skin’s natural renewal process, Oxygen Infusion Night Cream transforms your complexion into the translucent, glowing, fresh skin you crave. Microencapsulated oxygen fortifies and energizes skin depleted from stress, while helping to restore tone and texture to optimal levels. With a mild warming sensation, our night cream delivers anti-aging rice peptides and calming natural extracts to help alleviate the premature signs of aging due to stress.

Bioactive boosters: • Microencapsulated oxygen delivers energy to the cells and helps create radiant, glowing skin • Rice peptides help minimize wrinkles • Yeast extract moisturizes, soothes and helps calm inflamed skin • White willow bark, a naturally occurring form of salicylic acid, soothes irritation and helps provide antibacterial protection
Paraben-free, petroleum-free, mineral oil-free, sulfate-free, dye-free, cruelty-free, 100% vegetarian and allergy tested.

FOREVERLILY EDP ROLL-ON
approx 35 applications; .125 oz - $25

I have this fragrance and it is indeed quite lovely! The fragrance, was intended to aid the wearer in opening the heart and reaching for the highest within them. The result is an enveloping Oriental blend with a top note dominated by clove and sweet accents of lemon and fresh lychee. The fresh green crispness of fig and the feminine presence of stargazer lily are equally balanced in the middle note. The base note is comprised of cedarwood, vanilla, amber and sandalwood. Comes in a lovely forevelily blue organza bag. Take your foreverlily eau de parfum with you everywhere in this convenient, travel-sized rollerball. Great for handbag, gym bag or travel bag.

BECCA LOOSE FINISHING POWDER in SESAME
approx. 45 applications - $12

Ahhh ... well, I have this one too! BECCA's Sesame shade has been deemed by many to be the most universal of the shades and the best at perfecting skin tone. I forgot I had this; gonna have to pull it out to use tomorrow morning in fact. Widely regarded by many markeup artists as the finest powder in the world, BECCA’s Fine Loose Finishing Powder is unlike any other. This unique formulation is lightly pigmented and micro-milled, creating a perfectly uniform, ultra thin layer that allows the skin's natural oils to lightly shine through. The result ensures your foundation looks like real skin, with the added benefit of your makeup staying on all day. Preservative and paraben-free.

JUARA RICE FACIAL CLEANSER
3 week supply; 1 oz - $10

Another brand very well worth your looking into! This softening foaming cleanser combines gentle yet effective cleansing agents, which is said to remove make-up and skin-dulling debris, with the conditioning benefits of rice starch. Known for its soothing and softening properties, rice starch helps prevent moisture loss by enhancing the skin's protective barrier. Rich in amino acids and proteins naturally found in rice, this cleanser evokes the ritual of a rice water rinse, traditional in Indonesia. Your skin will be so soft after using it you won't want to stop touching it. Dermatologist Tested. Sulfate-free. Oil-free. Paraben-free. Oil-free.

KLORANE GENTLE DRY SHAMPOO w/ OAT MILK
6 week supply (you get 2- 1 oz spray cans) - $15

Been wanting to try this one actually. This particular product and brand of the dry shampoo craze has been well received. The quick, portable way to clean hair without water now fits perfectly into every cosmetic bag or carry on. This dry shampoo cleans hair in minutes without water. Suitable for all hair types, it is formulated with protecting oat milk, making it appropriate for even the most sensitive scalps. Corn and rice starch deliver a powerful cleansing action and natural absorbent microspheres eliminate dirt, oil and odors. Hair instantly regains volume and texture. Quick and practical to use, it's ideal for traveling, people on-the-go, after the gym, busy moms, to extend a blow-out or protect hair color.

POP BEAUTY MINI RIBBON GLOSS DUO
8 week supply (at least) - $12

You get them both! Here's POP Beauty's cult favorite Ribbon Gloss tins in a mini version. Pocket-sized tins containing three coordinated shades of POP's deluxe lip gel. Nourishes lips with tons of jojoba oil and a yummy, coconut flavor. Keep one of each in your bag for super silky and always pout ready lips! Shades are Peony Pink and Daisy Glow.

DOSHACARE DISCOVERY SKINCARE KITS
each kit is a one week supply - $44

Sensitive Skin Kit and Oily, Congested Skin Kit are both available at this time. This is a brand I'd adore trying! Your Dosha specific Discovery Kit assembles all the products required to honor your self with a daily and weekly ritual of skincare. Authentic radiance comes from rituals that restore and rejuvenate the mind and body. A customized DoshaCare Discovery Kit aspires to inspire you to move towards balance. Be good to the plant and to your skin with products packaged in convenient size bottles that are refillable and suitable for travel.
Kits contain Dosha specific Cleanser, Masque, Elixir, and Moisturizer in 10ml sizes. Also includes Sakala Ama Release Tonic and Sakala Environmental Shield 4 ml, Sakala Exfoliant 10ml, Sakala Eye and Neck Balm 3 gr. and a free trail of Sakala Sunscreen 28+.

Pitta/Pitta This daily and weekly ritual provides cleansing and exfoliation that calms, soothes and nourishes to harmonize an aggravated Pitta skin condition. Your Pitta/Pitta Discovery kit comes complete with every item in the Pitta and Sakala collection to treat your skin type for 3 to 5 days. Be good to the planet and to your skin with products packaged in convenient size bottles that are refillable and suitable for travel.

____________________________

Other brands I see available now include 100% Pure, Avene, Alterna, Code.ai, Demeter, Go Smile, Goldfaden, HydroPeptide, June Jacobs, LaRocca, Mama Mio, Oscar Blandi, Paula Dorf, Pevonia Botanica (love them), Warren-Tricomi and others.

So, click over to Total Beauty to check out what they have available in these mini, trial-sized products from really great brands. If you're not yet a member, don't worry, you can register when you get there.

ShopNBC Day of Beauty is TODAY!

2010-10-19T08:27:00.000-05:00

So, I got caught up watching the beginnings of ShopNBC's Day of Beauty last night and was so enthralled with the new products that I couldn't turn it off. Not real smart as I have an extremely early morning and an all day conference for work that I'm facilitating. WTH?

Surprisingly, I'm fresh a daisy this morning, bright-eyed and feeling like I got 10 hours, forget 8 hours, of sleep. Don't worry, I know it'll catch up and I'll be better .... well, tomorrow night as I know I'll be stuck to my TV screen again tonight watching the remainder of the Day of Beauty into the late night hours.

So enough about me ... this is about what appears to be fantastic, mostly new beauty products. And you'll find them all day long on ShopNBC and ShopNBC.com. Trust me, ladies and fellas, you do not want to miss this. I really encourage you to check them out on TV if you're able as the demonstrations of these products are so amazing they sell themselves. You won't get them from just a perusal of the website. True beauty education awaits you on the tube.

A gander at the ones that are jumping out to me?
Skinn Cosmetics Plasma Foundation Kit ($45). It's the channel's Today's Top Value and comes with a sweet gift with purchase (GWP), which includes a brand new foundation brush. The kit itself offers you two complementary foundation shades as well as a concealer - all in Dimitri James' sure-to-be-famous new plasma technology. You choose between Light, Medium or Deep. I saw the demonstrations of this foundation. A-mazing! The models truly looked as if they could be front and center on any top beauty magazine - forget the photoshopping ... they were flawless!

Skinn Cosmetics Line Stop Eye Treatment System ($49), a four piece set that includes Dimitri's Crease Release Eye Serum, Sinta Fill for Eyes, EnergEyes Anti-Fatigue Eye Firming Mask (loaded with green tea) and Luxe Premier Mascara was truly "eye-opening" in the on air presentation and I do mean that pun literally, ladies. Oh my gosh ... you should have seen the way these products worked on the model's eyes. If you're like me you've seen many an on-air demonstration of brands parading eye and facial products to yield jaw-dropping results only to leave you feeling like, "eh". No here, my friends. I've gotta have this kit having seen this demonstration. Truly impressive!

Another product that looks like something I'll wanna try?
New skincare complany ClickR is launching exclusively on ShopNBC until January 2011, then they'll be available at Sephora as well. For now, though, you can only get beauty veteran Florence Sender's new skincare line on ShopNBC. Her Diamond Dust Skin Polish ($30) from the Figure It Out Line looks and sounds wonderful. Diamond Dust is a lightweight face and neck treatment that polishes, exfoliates and refines pores (without a grainy feel, by the way ... it's not a physical exfoliation texture, the ingredients just act in the manner of exfoliation) , evens tone and controls moisture to eliminate dullness and restore a beautiful, glowing radiance to the skin. It's said to bathe skin with a treasure trove of special ingredients including real diamond dust, roots, seeds, herbs and gold and silver which enhance the total appearance of the skin. By utilizing unique ingredients such as minerals from the earth including gold, silver and diamond dust, as well as minerals from the sea, root and seed extracts, vitamins, fruits, flowers and rich proteins in the form of peptides, Florence feels strongly that each vegan element be added for a reason - to create incredibly effective, gentle, fast-acting skincare, while using only the most purposeful ingredients that your skin craves.

Another product showing impressive results on air today?
Wrinkle Magic Instant Wrinkle Reducer w/ Light Concealer ($20). Never heard of this before, but the on air demonstration was quite compelling. It works by instantly and temporarily tightening and filling in the lines and wrinkles and lightly conceals and brightens the skin and eye area. The eye area appeared lifted and it really helped to open the eye bringing a more youthful appearance in the before and after pics.

There's soooo much more to see. What I've given you is just the very tip of the iceberg. You'll also find great value and products from Cosmedicine, BECCA, Pacifica, Wholearth, RAW Essentials and others. There's even a Vapour Organic Discovery Kit of four of their products for under $30 available today. Plus, everything is available with their Value Pay plan today on Beauty Day, which breaks payments up for you without having to pay interest. Sweet!

FOTM: Lipbalm

2010-10-18T07:41:00.005-05:00

FAVORITES OF THE MOMENT (FOTM) in LIPBALM

'Tis the season to stock up on a good lip balm!
I'm picky about my balms. Since I apply lip balm every night before I get in bed, I want them to have fantastic ingredients in them. They can't be sticky. They must multi-task in not only hydrating my lips but must bring a little something extra as well for my dollar. I have to be able to sleep in it (so comfort without goop). Above all, if it yields a greasy feel to my lips, forget it.

Top 3 in Lipbalm:

Korres Lip Butter in Jasmine

#1 Korres Lip Butter

Without a doubt, my absolute favorite in the category. I've four pots of the fabulous balm on my dresser; that's how much I love it. Korres Lip Butter offers their good-for-you balms with a tad bit of tint for wearing during the day alone or even in combination with another lipcolor of your choice (blended with a lip liner for instance). I enjoy their butters without a heavy tint even more as I'm able to wear them at night to drench my lips in healthy ingredients and hydration. They've a very subtle nutty flavor to them. In order of fave, my picks are Jasmine, Guava, Quince and Plum. This ultimate lip treatment has an intensely hydrating formula in shea butter. Shea Butter both nourishes and provides anti-inflammatory benefits. Rice Wax seals in moisture and smoothes.

Retails for $10 a jar and available at SkinBotanica, beauty.com, ASOS (yes, they are in the USA now, hallelujah!) and other retailers.

LipFusion Balm Conditioning Stick in Bitten

#2 FusionBeauty LipFusion Balm Conditioning Stick

This balm stick FAST became a fave. Not only does it hydrate lips tremendsouly (claims say increase in water content of lips by 6000% in four weeks), but it actually plumps lips with that famous LipFusion technology as well. This balm is not at all greasy so you won't feel slick-lipped in this pampering product and the ingredients assist in protecting lips along with the hydrating and plumping. A huge plus factor - it's made with nourishing oils and creamy butters that provide the perfect level of comfort along with SPF 15! The tinted varieties provide just a very slight subtle blush of color to lips and won't interfere with another lip product if you choose to wear one (like a line liner or pencil for instance). On application, you feel a slight tingle and can instantly enjoy the moisturization the ingredients bring to lips. There's also a light mint flavor to the stick. The balm comes in a convenient "retractable bullet" format for on-the-go application. The casing actually "locks" with a slight turn of the cap to prevent it from coming off in your handbag, etc. Doses of AmpliFat and marine collagen filling spheres help to increase lip fullness, immediately and over time. I'm enjoying both the Butterscotch and Berry balms now having almost completely gone through the Bitten as my first trial of the product.

LipFusion Balm Conditioning Sticks retail for $22 a stick (yes, a bit pricey for a balm but you're paying for the technology here) and they last a long, long time (months in my case on one stick). They are available at beauty.com, Nordstrom and Ulta.

Tokyo Milk Bon Bon Lip Balm in Cherry Bomb

#3 Tokyo Milk Lip Balms

This balm is a tad bit greasier in feel than the two above, however still merits a place on the fave list for its deliciousness, charm, the chic little embossed jar, and last but not least, its fantastic ingredients. My sister gave me my little jar of Tokyo Milk balm on returning from a weekend foray of shopping. Her selection? The Bon Bon Cherry Bomb! My daughter (age 16) considers this one her personal fave of my collection of balms for its taste and feel on the lips and as such sneaks into my purse and/or room to savor a bit for herself here and there (read: daily! ha). The cherry variety contains sunflower seed oil, beeswax (ok, so not thrilled about this, but ok), vitamin E, aloe vera, shea butter, crushed bing cherries and sweet spun sugar. It's so yummy you'll want to apply layer upon layer, but don't as that increases the "slick" factor. (Unless, of course, you like or need that much - chapped lips beware.) Honey Blossom and Opera Mint will be my next tried of this decadent balm.

Other varieties include: Let Them Eat Cake, Honey Blossom, Iced Green Tea, Rosewater, Petit Four, Opera Mint, Sweet Cream and Candied Violet. They retail for about $10 a jar and are available at b-glowing (my love), ASOS, Beautyhabit and other fab and trendy retailers.

REVIEW: Cane + Austin Retexturizing Treatment Pads

2010-10-16T11:23:00.000-05:00

Could these clinical percentages be true? 100% increase in luminosity, 91% of panelists experienced reduced pore size, 87% noticed reduction in appearance of wrinkles and saw improvement in skin firmness, 70% saw dramatic reduction in skin discoloration and age spots! Really?

Yes, really!

I've not seen a product come along with these kinds of claims in clinicals in a long, long time. The simple truth is, the product does what it says. As such, it seems fitting to begin my review of Cane + Austin Retexturizing Treatment Pads with the oomph of that backing - the clinical trial percentages.

CANE - as in sugar cane.
This is the source of Cane + Austin's pure, proven powerhouse ingredient: Glycolic Acid.
Known as the superstar of the AHA’s, Glycolic Acid is derived directly from sugar cane, and has the smallest molecular size (of any AHA) which enables it to work effectively both as an exfoliator and moisturizer.

Glycolic Acid goes under the damaged upper layers of skin and destroys the 'glue' which holds dead skin to the surface, removing the dead skin cells that clog pores, resulting in increased cellular turnover, a smoother more radiant complexion and overall a more youthful appearance.
Glycolic Acid yields a smoother, younger complexion, that is soft and dewey with fewer lines and wrinkles, reduced pore size, improved tone and texture and is clinically-proven to correct hyper-pigmentation and discoloration, effective in reversing sun and free-radical damage.

AUSTIN - as in Dr. Austin.
As both a dermatologist and dermatopathologist, Craig Austin, MD has set himself apart from many physicians in the field with a unique hybrid approach utilizing advanced clinical treatments, histopathology (the microscopic study of diseased tissue and cellular strcuture) with hands-on patient care.

With over 20 years experience, Dr. Austin is a leader in his field, sought out by both patients and physcians for his expertise and innovative approach to treatment. His overall philosophy is founded on the premise of uncomplicated, straightforward proven practices that promote a lifetime of naturally healthy, beautiful skin. He is an avid proponent of the use of glycolic acid to rejuvenate and correct a host of skin concerns. Dr. Austin is Associate Clinical Professor of Dermatology and Dermatopathology at two major dermatology programs in New York City: Mt. Sinai Medical School and St. Barabas Dermatology Residency Program. he has three offices in the New York area: Manhattan, Southampton and Dutchess County.

Ok, so we now know Dr. Austin probably knows his stuff. (And, by the way, this isn't Dr. Austin's first foray into a skincare line; he's also the derm behind AB Skincare.) We've many times over been schooled in the goodness of glycolic acid (haven't you been reading For the Love of Beauty?). But, do the pads really live up to the hype?

L-R: Sun Spot Before and Sun Spot After 2 Weeks Use with Pads

Indeed they do!
I've been using the 10% Glycolic pads for two weeks now and am very pleased with the results. My forehead lines are less pronounced which is also a grand phenom, but I tell you, the result that has me singing Zippity Do-Da is the improvement in sun spot discoloration on my cheeks. 'Tis a funny tale (not really). I was in the car with my daughter the other day shopping for homecoming dresses, pulled down the sun visor to block the sun, got a glimpse of my cheek in the visor mirror, and, Holy Cow, saw a dime-sized sun spot on the left side of my face between my cheekbone and chin! Where the hell did that gremlin come from? And why hadn't I noticed it before?

It was that very night that I began using Cane + Austin Retexturizing Pads, with the specific hope of lightening that fella on my face. It's working! And not only is my face more even, more luminous, and less wrinkled in appearance, the texture is much improved as well - pore size minimized, skin is firmer, more plumped and youthful in appearance. I like!

Cane + Austin Retexturizing Treatment Pads not only contain 10% glycolic acid (the purest pharmaceutical grade available), they also include liposomal vitamins A, C, E, CoQ10 and antioxidants to protect skin from free radical damage. This is a ONE STEP at-home treatment that exfoliates and retexturizes, while helping to rebuild collagen. Witch Hazel helps to visibly tone and tighten skin. I noticed a slight tingle on application the first few days I used them, but nothing intolerable or irritating. I think it is fair to say you can FEEL the power in the pads, which I believe to be a good thing!

I'm so impressed with these I have my son using the Cane + Austin Acne Treatment Pads now. This version contains 5% Glycolic Acid and 2% Salicylic Acid with a powerful blend of liposomal vitamins A, C, E, CoQ10 and antiosidants to help gently exfoliate, assist in increasing cellular turnover, treat blemishes and blackheads, protect the skin from free radical damage, all while allowing skin to heal. Those clinicals boast an impressive 100% effective result (as noted by panelists) in decreasing blemishes. We'll see how the pads work for him.

So where can you get them? Cane + Austin Retexturizing Glycolic Treatment Pads and Acne Treatment Pads both retail for approximately $60 a jar (a 30 day supply) and are available at SpaceNK, Nordstrom, DERMAdoctor and Cane + Austin online.

Coming Back after Being Out of Myself or Vice Versa

2010-10-15T12:22:00.000-05:00

So, yes have been away from the blog for about a month, and have missed it. Life events took me away from this and many other elements that serve as reminders for what I enjoy about life. But I'm back.

Yes, realize that blog post title may appear confusing ... sit with it a while, you'll get it. Or you won't ... and it's still ok. LOL x

Monique Lhuillier Spring 2011 - Euphoria

2010-09-15T06:41:00.001-05:00

Euphoria. The inspiration behind Monique Lhuillier's Spring 2011 Collection.

Feminine evening gowns. It's what Monique Lhuillier does best. What surprises me about this season's collection is the choice of color palette, a departure from what we've come to expect for her. Nude, white, gold ... yes, very familiar ... poppy red? Really? Ok ... we're willing to take a look. Let it sink in a little bit. Ummm .... sure, I suppose this could be interesting. In fact, the more I study the collection with its pops of soft seafoam-y teal contrasted with the warmth of the golden red, the more appealing it becomes.

"Welcome to the Garden of Eden," greets Lhuillier, gesturing around the hotel suite. "We have the angelic side, and the naughty side."

Slender metallics, draped silk sheaths and flamboyant ballgowns — poufed and appliquéd chiffons with plenty of fanfare like bustled, petaled or trumpet skirts. Your choice, ladies.

Lead makeup artist Val Garland for MAC created glowing faces that complimented the elegant feel of the line. The eye was for facial focal point here, using black gel eyeliner for a “sleek Fifties” winged feel. “It’s a bit of a cat eye,” said Garland. “It's a 1950's Audrey Hepburn look with an aerodynamic beautiful eye liner. Very haute couture and red carpet, slightly debutant with gilded lilacs on the eye lid, liner and a delicate soft pink glossed lip.”

Proving you don't have to match your makeup colors to your clothing, Garland used MAC eye shadows in Digit and Vellum layered onto the lids, Crystal through the crease of the lids and a layer of Idol (one of my fave MAC shadows) applied wet on the top. Woodwinked was dabbed on the inner corners of the lids for golden highlighting. Eyebrows were slightly extended to frame the face. MAC Face and Body foundation was applied as a base with Bamboo Cream Colour Base blended onto the cheeks and Shell Cream Colour Base to highlight the cheekbones. Garland’s “soft look” for lips was achieved by patting on MAC Viva Glam Gaga Lipglass, a pigmented matte baby pink lip gloss.

Rudi Lewis, lead hairstylist for Bumble and Bumble described the look he created at Monique Lhuillier’s Spring 2011 show as “magical but modern.” Before beginning the updo, Lewis added Spray de Mode to blow-dried hair. He pulled hair up into a “sculpted high ponytail.” A section of hair on the top of the head was left out of the updo and given a softer texture. He then tucked hair up in a roll, using only one long piece of elastic to create the refined look. “This is reminiscent of an Irving Penn woman,” said Lewis. “It’s Fifties without being too retro.” Lewis added that models were styled to look “expensive” and polished. “It’s not about trends,” he said.

Nails, styled by Wanda Ruiz for CND, were gilded — a combination of two coats of Putty nail polish and a top coat of shimmering Perfectly Bare polish, for a “reflective three-dimensional, holographic effect.” Um, gorgeous is what I say!

Watch the video to really get the elegant feel of this collection, the look of beauty and backstage fun!

source: Monique Lhuillier, MAC, wwd, style.com

A Nude Frontier with Bryan Meehan

2010-09-14T17:36:00.001-05:00

Intrigued? You should be. Eco-entreprenuer and NUDE Skincare founder Bryan Meehan will be on hand in San Francisco for a Q & A session and to unveil NUDE’s latest product - Advanced Cellular Renewal Serum – a breakthrough treatment formulated with the highest concentration of Probiotics and proven to stimulate cellular renewal up to 70% and reduce cellular damage up to 50%.

Ali Hewson and Bryan Meehan, Co-Founders, NUDE Skincare

Find out how NUDE is changing the face of natural skincare with Probiotics and high performance ingredients. Meehan co-founded NUDE with Ali Hewson, wife of U2 singer Bono, and the two set off on the adventure of teaching the world about Pre and Pro biotic skincare that actually renders effective results. These two were giving us natural, organic skincare before it became "sexy" to do so. Yes, they are the visionaries!

Elle, Sept 2010

NUDE has just introduced Advanced Cellular Renewal Serum and this beauty is already hitting the beauty editors' pages as the new "It" item, a must have and a skincare fave. With good reason.

With the highest concentration of Probiotic Technology in the NUDE range, this breakthrough serum uses three bio-available technologies proven to help the skin repair itself.

Beauty editors aren't the only ones singing this elixir's praises. The serum has also found its way onto the faces and into the hearts of Uma Thurman, Kim Cattrall, Erin O'Connor and Helena Christensen to name a few.

'After just 3 days I have the dewiest, most beautiful skin. It feels incredible and looks so much younger. I'm obsessed'
~ Helena Christensen

BIOACTIVE PEPTIDES
Powerful Bioactive Peptides help stimulate Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid and Fibronectin production, restructuring the cellular matrix to firm the skin and reduce the depth of wrinkles.

COMPLETE HYALURONIC ACID SYSTEM
NUDE has created a unique three way system to optimise Hyaluronic Acid within the skin

• A concentrated dose of Hyaluronic Acid instantly plumps and smoothes
• Bioactive Peptides boost natural synthesis of Hyaluronic Acid
• Antioxidant Japanese Sea Kelp helps to protect against the breakdown of Hyaluronic Acid

Wishing I lived near San Fran so I could take advantage of the opportunity to meet Bryan! What a treat! Here are the deets:

When: Wednesday, September 15th

12pm – 2pm & 5pm – 7pm

Where: Potrero Hill Whole Foods Market

Guests will receive $10 off (for a limited time) any purchase of NUDE’s Advanced Cellular Renewal Serum. For additional information or questions, please contact Kelly Sedei, 415-786-2724.

Erin Fetherston Spring 2011

2010-09-14T07:45:00.000-05:00

When asked to name the inspiration for her Spring 2011 collection in one word, Erin Fetherston responded, "Aphrodisiac;" this photo (below) was submitted as an inpiring element ... just envision the travels this diva must have experienced.

"I like the idea of this woman who travels far and wide, and collects these treasures to add to her wardrobe," Erin Fetherston said before her Spring show.

With that inspiration, Fetherston opened Spring 2011 show with two safari jackets. "Birds of Paradise," the name of the collection, showcased one-shouldered cocktail dresses, peplum jackets and other pieces in florals and patterns. Somewhat neutral shades of ivory, a muted warm green and peachy orange enhanced the color palette. Nowhere in this collection will one find the berry, plum or jewel tones of Fall 2010 trending.

Fetherston's penchant for feminine charm shows through this season, the clothes almost demure, pretty silk wrap dresses in soft geometric prints and chic jackets with fronts draped to look like bows, flowy silhouettes. The pop of pumpkin orange lipstick courtesy of MAC enhances the simplicity of the designs in a marked way.

source: wwd, MAC, the cut, erin fetherston, youtube (aol)

No Go: MAC Rethinks Rodarte Collection and Pulls Out

2010-09-14T06:20:00.004-05:00

MAC Cosmetics rethinks decision to launch the controversially marketed Rodarte x MAC collection and withdraws. MAC made the announcement via their facebook page with this little note:

This decision will not impact M·A·C 's commitment to donate all of its projected profits from the collection to benefit the women and girls of Juarez.

Out of respect for the people of Mexico, the women and girls of Juarez and their families, as well as our M·A·C Mexican staff and colleagues, M·A·C has made the decision not to ship the M·A·C Rodarte limited edition makeup collection. This decision will have no impact on M·A·C's commitment to donate all of its projected global profits from this collection to local and international groups that work to improve the lives of the women and girls of Juarez. We are currently conducting due diligence to ensure we donate to organizations with a proven record of directly supporting the women and girls of Juarez.

M·A·C and Rodarte are deeply and sincerely sorry and we apologize to everyone we offended. We have listened very closely to the feedback of concerned global citizens. We are doing our very best to right this wrong. The essence of M·A·C is to give back and care for the community and Rodarte is committed to using creativity for positive social change. We are grateful for the opportunity to use what we have learned to raise awareness on this important issue.

______________________________

No word on whether Rodarte will follow suit with their fashion collection. One finds most often art makes no apologies, but we shall see. For more commentary on this controversy, I'd encourage you to check out my beauty blogging buddy Pink Sith's article on the issue. She outlined some well thought out points on the matter.

Alexander Wang Spring 2011

2010-09-13T06:52:00.003-05:00

Loving Alexander Wang's Spring 2011 collection, well - some of it! Feminine, breezy, light and airy, and the color palette ... fresh and clean, just beautiful. The "construction" theme went a little overboard for my amateurish taste. The rose gold metallic splashes here and there on some of the designs just didn't do it for me, and the color blotches gone haywire seemed a bit - overdone (can I say that?) ... but hey, I'm a minimalist purist with conservative style in its simplest form, so forgive me.

“I wanted to explore a purity and honesty,” said Wang, preshow. “As you can see, there’s not one hint of black.”

loooooving the shoes!

So far this NYFW we're seeing designers are returning to the feeling of light-ness, and what a welcome relief. Wang certainly appreciates this idea in his new collection, though it gets skewed with a few of the "color gone paint-ball" designs and sloppiness of some of the exaggerated pieces for the sake of his construction motif.

One nuance for Wang that can't be missed in this collection? Construction!

The collection includes overalls and wide-leg carpenter pants, denim jackets accented with copper paint. His flyaway silk trench had utilitarian crisscross straps at the back. The foil details throughout? Apparently a reference to duct tape (see image at top). His models came accessorized with swipes of white paint in their hair to add to the overall "under construction" vibe.

In the continuation of last year's deconstruction theme, he showed layering and ultra-relaxed silhouettes. As reported by WWD, Wang also introduced his first-ever in-house prints — childlike scribbles and doodles done by his staff and interns on a 5-foot-by-5-foot sheet of paper in the studio and reproduced on fabrics in washed-out hues. “There are inside jokes [written] that even I don’t know,” he said.

source/images: WWD, Style.com

Wha??? Abbey Lee Has Gone Platinum

2010-09-12T13:37:00.001-05:00

The Hair Transitions of Abbey Lee: L-R Fall 2010 for Emilio Pucci; Fall 2010 for Chanel Couture; Spring 2011 for Rag & Bone

Ok, so we know they're all prone to doing it at some point ... the high fashion models ... and platinum blonde hair. Agyness Deyn, Iekeline Stange and now little Abbey Lee Kershaw. I say little not because of her stature or popularity, this girl rocks it! I say it because the dear is a mere 20 years old (yes, I know 33 or so in model years). We've been following her here since she first broke out as a fresh-faced catwalk star Fall 2008.

Here's what fashionologie reports about Abbey's fun new look having spoken with the gorg one herself at Chanel's Soho store opening this past Thursday:

Abbey Lee Kershaw, who not long ago cut her hair short, has taken the change even further. "I was ready for a big change," she explained this evening at the Chanel Soho store opening in New York, where she debuted her newly-dyed platinum blonde hair. She plans to keep the color all season, "unless a designer asks for it to be changed." How's it been received so far? "I only dyed it two days ago, so no one's really seen it yet." She told Modelinia of the dye job: "It took seven hours and I didn’t speak for another four hours. I’ve never dyed my hair before. Also I think that with the cut that I’ve got, it was the time to go white.”

Lee is so beautiful she could shave her head bald and still garner beauty adoration! On another note, Stay tuned, my loves, some Spring 2011 Mercedes Benz Fashion Week posts about to roll out!

source: fashionologie

Fall Makeup Trend: Combining Hues on the Same Feature

2010-09-10T07:09:00.003-05:00

Emilie de Ravin

Makeup pros are taking a hint from Old World master painters combining different colors on the same facial feature to yield a spectacular, dimensional effect.

CHEEKS
Layering bronzer and blush has a double benefit. "The bronzer brings out cheekbones and makes the face more three-dimensional," says makeup artist Benjamin Puckey, who created these looks. "The blush gives a glow." The effect is beautifully worn by actress Emilie de Ravin in the image at top.

L-R: Smashbox Creamy Cheek Color in Intrigue ($29) and NARS The Multiple bronzer in Rapa Nui ($37)

TIP: After smoothing lightweight foundation onto de Ravin's skin, Puckey used his fingers to swirl cream bronzer around the sides of her face in a large "3" shape, starting at the temples, working down to the upper cheekbones, and continuing down to the jawline. Then he layered pink cream blush along the apples of the cheeks, right on top of the bronzer.

LIPS
This two-tone look subtly contours the mouth, says Puckey. A darker shade around the periphery adds definition, while a slightly softer tone in the center reflects light and creates the illusion of fuller, juicier lips. "The key is to use two shades in the same color family," he says. "They should gradually fade into each other for an ombré effect."

L-R: Paul & Joe Lipstick C in Sahara ($22) and MAC Lipstick in Of Royalty ($15)

TIP: Puckey used a firm brush to precisely apply a deep carnation hue along de Ravin's lip line, then blended it toward the center. Next, he brushed a paler bubblegum pink into the middle of the top and bottom lips.

More tips and trends for Fall beauty, hair and fashion coming soon! My favorite time of year ... can almost feel the weather turning more crisp, cool breezes blowing leaves from trees and that first sip of hot java warming my tummy. Bring it on!

source/images: InStyle

Jen Channels Babs in Harper's Bazaar's New Issue

2010-09-09T06:27:00.002-05:00

Stunning photos of Jennifer Aniston grace the pages of Harper's Bazaar's September issue. Complimenting the spread Jen discusses her love and admiration for Barbra Streisand as a powerful musical voice, a funny girl and a muse.

Excerpted article:

It was Jennifer's hairstylist and friend of almost 20 years, Chris McMillan, who inspired her to write her own love letter to Streisand's style. "He is, of course, hair obsessed," Jennifer explains, "and I'm a Barbie doll for him. So, whenever we'd see great pictures of Barbra or a movie, he'd be like, 'You have to do an homage to Barbra.'"

So she did. In an old Los Angeles theater, surrounded by iconic images from everything from Funny Girl to What's Up, Doc? (and with "People" on rotation), Jennifer's Streisand-ification began: "First, putting on the dramatic eye makeup and the wig. Then hearing Barbra's voice booming," she remembers. A Streisand homage is incomplete, however, without one thing: perfectly manicured, thoroughly immodest fingernails. "The nails were like, There she is!"

Jennifer is effusive in her admiration of Streisand. "Barbra inspires me because there isn't anything she hasn't done that she wanted to do, especially as a female in the time when her generation was prime. She's a true renaissance woman." Her favorite Streisand films: "The Way We Were and A Star Is Born. Both pretty great."

~ Laura Brown

(Harper's Bazaar, Sept 2010)

Read more by picking up the September issue of Harper's Bazaar on stands now.

photos: Mark Seliger

Coming Soon: Spa Week. What Little Luxury Will You Treat Yourself To?

2010-09-08T06:28:00.001-05:00

Photo: Beauty Mercantile

Yes! It's that time of year again when spas reach out to their adoring public in offering half-price spa treatments, $50 massages and much more. If you're not one to treat yourself regularly (or at all), and you could use a little TLC (and who couldn't?) then do something good for you body, mind and soul and relax in a little luxury when the price is oh so sweet. Give yourself permission to indulge, just a little. Do it for me if you can't do it for yourself (cuz I really do care... yes, I seriously do); I know you'll thank me later. It all awaits you!

Massages, facials, body scrubs… always want more, more often! But did you know you’re barely scraping the spa surface? New technology, reinvented techniques and pop culture all shape the way we spa today. Spa Week has officially announced the definitive list of the latest in emerging spa treatment trends, from holistic to glamorous. I have to admit, there are some on this list that I'm a little embarrassed (terrified!) to even share with you - vajazzling ... I blush! Really? Oooooo-kay!

Here's the list in all its unedited glory a la Spa Week:

photo: Instanbul Grand Hyatt

Treat yourself to a wellness and beauty adventure this Spa Week®, $50 spa treatments September 13-19 for the West Coast and Chicago, October 11-17 for the rest of the country. The Fall spa directory launches August 16 for the West Coast, September 13 for the rest of the country, when you’ll be able to see which spas are offering which services. Try one, try all— Spa Week is the time to indulge and experiment. All these treatments will be available for just $50!

1) FIGHTING ALLERGIES

Sinus massages, breathe-easy facials and cold & flu bath salts are just a few of the spa services you’ll be seeing this upcoming Spa Week, just in time to soothe your seasonal allergies. Treat your immune system and clear your sinuses in the spa with new treatments using Eucaplyptus, humidifiers and Lymph drainage movements , to name just few of the techniques being used to assist in allergy relief.

2) BIKINI GLAMOUR

Vajazzling made its sparkly splash last Spa Week, when bedazzling your bikini became the hot new standard in girly glamour. Other treatments are quickly emerging in its footsteps to pamper your private parts: Bikini/Bum Facials are being offered to give the same attention down there as a esthetician would to your face: toner, extractions and masks included. Also, post-Brazilian waxing rituals such as Airbrush painting and Vattooing are now the latest in vaginal adornment.

3) SLEEPING AND DREAMING

Insomniac? A good night’s slumber with proper REM cycles can be just as rejuvenating as a spa treatment, so one of the hottest trends emerging in the industry is a dream-worthy mix of the two to promote better sleeping patterns. Scents such as Rosewood, Palmarosa and Vanilla are used to guide you off to never-never land while massage techniques make for a complete relaxation experience.

4) LASH EXTENSIONS

Eyelash length, thickness, volume and darkness have gone way up on the beauty priority lists of women now more than ever. While new drugstore and professional lash volumizers continue to crowd the lash-enhancing market, the Fall Spa Week event is poised to give women more professional lash-extending options than ever before.

5) INSTANT INCH LOSS

Remember that magical, completely safe instant weight-loss pill you always dreamed of? We’re not saying it’s been invented (sorry), but the spa is becoming a go-to place to get instant, (almost) magic-like results in addition to providing long term benefits. Colon Hydrotherapy is becoming more popular as a quick, easy cleanse, and hot new med-spa services like the 7E Treatment and Ionithermie give immediate results by targeting muscles with waveform technology.

6) REIKI AND ENERGY WORK

Turn your trip to the spa into a journey for the soul. Reiki, energy work and holistic healing deliver health benefits ranging from injury recovery to spiritual growth. By engaging the flow of your “life force energy,” practitioners are turning spa-goers into active believers. Look for treatments with an energy component this coming Spa Week, and may the force be with you.

7) ACUPUNCTURE

This ancient holistic healing technique is no newbie to the spa scene, but the granddaddy of healing is suddenly making a resurgence. The World Health Organization advocates the use of acupuncture to treat over 40 conditions, from anxiety and other stress syndromes to musculoskeletal pain and injury, and the Fall Spa Week event will encourage more spa-goers to forget their fears of needles and reap the benefits of this treatment—for their face, body and both.

8) BOTOX ON-THE-GO

Pick up dry cleaning, get Botox, grab lunch… what? Yes, the age-defying treatment has become so mainstream that spas are now offering it hassle-free, and even appointment-free. Add the $50 Spa Week price tag, and suddenly “to-tox-or-not-to tox?” is one of the easiest decisions to make.

9) HOT AND COLD STONE MASSAGES

Spa Week’s favorite sweetheart treatment has always been the Hot Stone Massage, but the newest twist is cooler than past seasons. Instead of using all hot stones, this treatment includes the application of cold stones as well, adding multi-dimensional stimulation. Alternating the hot and cool stones helps every cell in the body receive more oxygen and nutrients and encourages a more effective removal of toxins.

10) Champissage

Also known as Indian head massage, Champissage has been practiced for more than 1000 years in India and has now been interpreted as a custom ritual at many spas. Traditionally, it began as a system of family grooming, with mothers massaging their daughters’ hair with oils to encourage long, lustrous locks. Over time, it began to incorporate massage of the face neck and shoulders, specifically yours this upcoming Spa Week.

11) EVERYTHING SEAWEED

You’d like to be… under the sea? Why? Just go to the spa. Seawater and seaweed have similar mineral contents with approximately the same percentage as the human body. Because of this, seaweed wraps help detoxify the body, eliminate excess fluids, increase blood circulation and regulate hormonal levels. More treatments than ever are incorporating Seaweed this Spa Week. Go for a dive.

12) SIMPLY ... OXYGEN

Human beings’ star life-sustaining molecule is getting more and more play inside the spa. One of the new treatments is Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber Therapy, which dissolves oxygen in the blood plasma and all body cells, tissues and fluids at up to 10 times normal concentration—high enough to sustain life with no blood at all. Oxygenating facials are also increasing in popularity, as oxygen continues to secure its reputation as the #1 skincare essential.

Experiment with these treatments and experience the true spa lifestyle for just $50 a piece during Spa Week. Make sure you’re signed up!

source: SpaWeek

Longwear: Giorgio Armani Metallic Eye Shadows for Fall 2010

2010-09-07T06:08:00.001-05:00

So the verdict is in per InStyle's beauty department and the news is good. Armani Metallic Eye Shadows set to launch in mid-October stand the test of time (read: last all day)!

The densely pigmented powder-gel hybrid combines shimmer with translucent emollients that lock color in place. Professional makeup artist Joanna Schlip chimes in, "These shadows are ideal for my red-carpet clients because there's no need for a touch-up." Schlip does provide a few tips for application of this unique new product, though. The color is extremely rich and can be tricky to apply. She suggests, "dipping a damp brush in the pot and swirling it on the back of your hand until the shadow is a sheer paste."

Beauty editors claim the shadows lived up to the long-wear claim. The report they applied it on a steamy summer morning, and the color didn't budge, fade or crease; no small feat. The shadows are said to be easily removed, however, with an oil-based makeup remover. The color lasted on these beauties a whole 10 hours.

Looking forward to trying these me thinks, if for no other reason because of the luxury of a richly colored gel-powder Armani shadow on my lid! Armani Metallics will be available online at Giorgio Armani Beauty mid-October. The shadows will retail for about $32 each.

Sale at Apothica: 20% Off!

2010-09-05T01:05:00.000-05:00

click to enlarge for detail

Can't pass this up!

Apothica, showcasing some of the best brands in beauty, is offering 20% off everything sitewide!

Now's the time to get your Clarisonic or buy early for Christmas for your mom, daughter or BFF. The gift of beautiful skin is yours and theirs thanks to this fantastic cleansing system. While you're there, you can pick up some of your favorite cleanser to be used with your Clarisonic. One of my faves is Mario Badescu's Enzyme Cleansing Gel. Also popular, and in fact a 5-star product at Apothica, Dermalogica's Clearing Skin Wash doesn't injure your skin as it withdraws impurities. You'll be pleased as pie with your soft, smooth, and supple skin. Salicylic Acid purges the pores of oil. Tea Tree purifies the pores. Menthol cools the skin.

Some Apothica must-haves from top brands include:

CARGO Wet/Dry Foundation $32
The perfect blend of liquid and powder foundation in one compact. It gives you the most versatile coverage depending on your application method. It is also full of nourishing vitamins and skin hydrators, making it act as an actual treatment for the skin. Squalane binds moisture to the skin. Vitamin E conditions and fights free-radical damage. Vitamin C brightens and tones.

BECCA Showgirl Palette $65
A gorgeous grouping of eye, lip, and cheek shades. The Palette contains Lip & Cheek Creme - Hollyhock (berry), Nude Lip Gloss - Parisette (soft pink), Eye Colour Wash - Tulle (misty lilac), Eye Colour Wash - Charmeuse (mushroom beige), Compact Eyeliner - Emmanuelle (dark brown), and Dual Ended Brush - eyeliner/eye shade brush combination.

Smashbox Cosmetics Masquerade Eye Shadow Palette $35
I drooled over this palette earlier today. You'll find every perfect for Fall eyeshadow shade in this set. And the colors are absolutely beautiful, easy to apply and stunning on every eye color! From light peach to glimmering gold, the shades are organized horizontally in trios, to be worn solo or paired with shades in the same row. Wrapped up in a classy navy blue case with a mirror, this eye kit is a makeup must-have. This may be one of my favorite Smashbox offerings ever!

Essie Fall Nail Polish Collection $8 each
Not much is needed to be said about these beautes. It's Essie. The colors are right on trend for Fall. 'Nuff said!

Ole Henriksen Ultimate Lift Eye Gel $38
Instantly hydrates fatigued eyes. Aloe Vera Gel moisturizes, calms, and heals. Eyebright Extract calms, soothes and constricts the capillaries around the eye area. Cucumber Essence tightens pores.

What's completely wonderful about this offer? Mike's offering the 20% off across all three sites. That means we can shop at Apothica, SkinBotanica and SkincareRX and get 20% off whatever we buy from all three. That sends shivers up and down my spine!

Click HERE and enter code: MAKEOVER20 at checkout.

Offer good thru 9/13/10

Stila's 4th Travel Palette: Make an Impression in Moscow + Why I Know about It

2010-09-04T19:06:00.000-05:00

Oh Stila travel palette ... fourth in the series of $10 mini product treasures ... where for art though, travel palette? And why art Roxy gettin' the scoop before the rest of us?

Well, truth be told, Roxy ... ahem ... I ... didn't. This post is inspired by an anonymous reader who wanted to know how I got a sneak preview of the Stila Make an Impression in Moscow Travel Palette highlighted in my last post. The "Moscow" palette is fourth in Stila's series of travel minis set to be released in mid-September. It offers four scrumptious Stila eyeshadows (that shimmery light baby blue is particularly gorg) and a Convertible Color cheek and lip cream in a peachy-blushy rose hue.

Did I have the inside scoop from a savvy source? Was I given top secret clearance to the world of Stila? Did Stila's PR and press agents slide the news to me in a wisely transmitted email? Did I somehow sneakily steal into the Stila labs late one night and snap a picture of the next travel palette with my trusty cameraphone. Newsflash: Roxy ain't that ambitious!

Allow me to introduce you to the fantastically fun and informative MSN site Glo. Ladies and fellas, if you've not been clued into Glo yet and learning all about what they have to share on topics such as Beauty, Style, Relationships and Living then you're in for a treat! Glo is fun, it's interactive, it's visually appealing and right on trend. Glo is who turned me on to a preview of Stila's Make an Impression in Moscow Travel Palette as well as other multi-tasking palettes (which I reproduced in an abbreviated effort in my last post below).

Enjoy! xo

images: Stila, Glo

Glo Says: A Look at New and Upcoming Perfect Multi-Function Palettes

2010-09-01T06:15:00.004-05:00

Multitask much? Well if you're Type-A, or just enjoy a good buy and lots of bang for your buck, these newly launched palettes are sure to please. These lovelies are clueing in on the desire for a perfectly organized makeup bag and great for on-the-go to boot. These great palettes give us plenty of fun, chic ways to keep it together in richly hued products great for Fall.

Hint: Click on images to enlarge for better product detail.

BLUE JEAN BABY
Housed in a cute zip-around denim case, Bobbi Brown’s new palette is packed with classic colors for the entire face. There are shimmering pigments for eyes, a peachy-pink cheek color and rose-toned lip colors and glosses for a perfect pout. Bobbi Brown Denim Rose Palette, $60

ANIMAL FRIENDLY
With its colorful and surreal packaging, Urban Decay’s Vegan Palette will beautify your eyes and your vanity. Inside, there are six vegan eye shadows and a smudge-able black eye pencil. A travel size of their primer comes with the palette, giving you everything you need to achieve smoldering eyes. Urban Decay Vegan Palette, $34

TOP TEN
To celebrate ten years in the beauty biz, Tarte created a limited edition product. The refillable gold-studded palette contains ten eye shadows, a double-ended eyeliner and an eye shadow brush. And because it comes with a free Tarte mascara, it’s all the eye makeup you’ll need this fall. Hello - just look at the depth of pigment and gorgeous-ness in these shadows. Absolutely stunning! Tarte Ten Limited Edition Collector's Palette, $44

AWAY WE GO
Stila’s new palettes — each named for a fictional girl living in a geographical location — include four eye shadow shades and a convertible color that can be used anywhere on the face. Above is a sneak peek for you of Make an Impression in Moscow, set for mid-September launch. Stila Travel Girl Palettes, $10

RUNWAY READY
Ok, my darlings, are you ready for this one? Drumroll please ..... NARS has gathered a handful of its most fashion-forward colors for fall into one compact. Featuring four luxe eye shadows — a deep brown, black, light pink and intense purple — and two cheek colors (including the brand’s famous Orgasm blush), this is a palette for edgy girls on the go. FYI - There's another version of a NARS zippered palette for lips and cheeks too - yumm! NARS Only You Eye & Cheek Palette, $65

SIMPLY FLAWLESS
Get flawless skin with Lorac’s Evening Out Complexion Kit, a one-stop compact for covering blemishes and refining skin’s texture. Featuring two creamy concealers and a powder foundation (all free of parabens), this slick gunmetal-toned compact will help you fake fall’s “bare-faced” beauty looks. LORAC Evening Out Complexion Kit, $38 (Ulta)

PACK & PLAY
Weekend jaunts just got a whole lot easier to pack for. Jouer’s newest palette, features everything you need (save mascara) to create a pretty-as-a-picture visage ... and it clicks together. Jouer The Weekender, $58 (Available in September at Henri Bendel and Jouer Cosmetics)

source: msn glo