Go Get This! Stila Travel Palettes - Fabulous in Fiji + Trendsetting in Tokyo (review)

I’m jumping right to the review so you can jump on this spectacular deal. From Stila.

Travel Palettes - Fabulous in Fiji + Trendsetting in Tokyo

Fabulous in Fiji

Blurb: Sit back and relax as you escape with Ali to fabulous island of Fiji. Inspired by the tropical colors of this serene getaway, this palette will make you sparkle like the crystal clear ocean.

Trendsetting in Tokyo

Blurb: Experience the bustling, fast-paced metropolis as you follow Zoe through her Tokyo adventure. Inspired by the neon lights and classic geisha trends, this palette will have you looking fashion-forward.

These travel palettes are completely and thoroughly awesome. They’re pretty, chic, portable, and the packaging is excellent (a secure magnetic flip top). Each has a lovely convertible (lip/cheek) color, and four shadows (at least one is a darker shade that can double as a liner with a wet brush). There’s a good sized mirror; and the slim palette closes easily, and fits almost anywhere (measures 2.5” x 4.5” when closed).

Fabulous in Fiji features tropical shadows and a bronze convertible color. Trendsetting in Tokyo has edgier pink/purple/gold/black shadows and a convertible color in Sakura.

In addition to wonderful Stila quality, these palettes are also an amazing value. Normally, they retail for about $10 each (I know - wow). And right now, Stila is offering both of these together as a set for…$9. That’s right – 9 bucks for two palettes! I ordered two sets, and I’m keeping one and saving the other two for gifts. I’m actually thinking of stocking up. They would make incredible hostess gifts, bridesmaid gifts, or even stocking stuffers (if you're thinking that far ahead).

The Set is available on the website. You can also enter the Light Up The World Contest and check out the Tips and Tricks page. There are 3 other Travel Palettes too. Each is $10 (still an amazing value), and Stila is also available at Sephora.

(ftc disclosure: purchased myself)

Sunday Edition: Four Sexy Looks from blow NY

This also came my way before Valentine’s Day; but there’s always time for gorgeous looks…

Tips & Tricks from the experts at blow NY

Whether celebrating with your special someone or your sassy single girlfriends, choose a hairstyle that would make even cupid fall in love with you! With these quick tips from the experts at blow, the new york blow dry bar your hair will look irresistible all night long.

Sexy Bedhead: Change up your picture-perfect look and let your inner vixen out for the night with sexy, effortless hair.

1. Starting with dry hair, work in blowPro Faux Dry at the crown to remove any oil and to add texture.

2. Use a 1½-inch curling iron to create curls. Don’t use the clamp, rather wrap hair around the full barrel.

3. Evenly apply blowPro Blow Out Spray all over. Flip hair over and rake your fingers through the curls to break them up.

4. Spritz blowPro Beach Blow into the palms of your hands and scrunch into hair for a tousled look.

Sleek and Straight: If you always wear your hair naturally curly then surprise him with a chic, modern look.

1. Work in a nickel-sized dollop of blowPro Straight to the Point and a dime-sized drop of blowPro Weather Girl into damp hair before blow drying.

2. Using duck bill clips divide hair into 4-6 sections.

3. Blow dry each section using a paddle brush. The more tension you use, the straighter your hair will be.

4. Simultaneously run a fine-toothed comb and flat iron through hair for a smooth, straight finish.

Fun and Sweet Up-Do: Keep the night laid back with a playful up-do.

1. Section off a triangular area of hair at the crown. Using a fine-toothed comb gently tease hair at the back of this section. Draw the front section of hair over the “cushion” you created and gently secure with two small bobby pins by creating an “X” on the top mid/back part of your head. Be careful you don’t flatten the volume you created.

2. Use a 1½-inch curling iron to curl the rest of the hair.

3. Gather hair into a loose bun at the nape of the neck and finish with blowPro Blow Out Spray for touchable hold.

4. ** Running late? Skip Step 2 and work in blowPro Beach Blow to accentuate your hair’s natural texture before creating the bun.

Glamorous Blow Out: Not sure what your plans are? A gorgeous blow out will complete any look.

1. Apply blowPro Ready Set Blow to clean, towel-dried hair. Section hair into 5 sections using duck bill clips.

2. Dry each section with a large round boar bristle brush. On the final pass for each section switch the hair dryer to the cool setting to set and minimize frizz and fly-aways.

3. Roll each section back up and secure with clips. Apply blowPro Blow Out Spray to keep the look voluminous all day long.

4. Remove pins and tilt head forward and rake fingers through hair to loosen up the sections.

5. Flip hair back and work in a dime-sized amount of blowPro Weather Girl for a smooth finish.

6. ** Rushing home from work? Fake a fabulous blow out by focusing on the top section of hair. Make sure it is fully dry with ample volume and your look will be drop dead gorgeous.

This season the perfect gift is a blow out card at blow, the new york blow dry bar at one of the 2 NYC flagship locations (DOWNTOWN: 342 West 14th Street between 8th and 9th ave or UPTOWN: 843 Lexington at 64th St) www.blowNY.com.

Sunday Edition: Earthly Elements

This came into my inbox before Valentine’s Day, but I was so busy getting ready for my trip that I didn’t have time to share it. Take a look at this yummy body wash and lotion combo…

Indulge Mind, Body & Spirit with NEW Earthly Elements!

Tempt with Scent: According to studies men associate the smell of Vanilla with love…

Get sexy, smooth, with NEW Earthly Elements. The Moroccan Vanilla Body wash and Body Lotion sets the mood by keeping skin touchably soft and hydrated with a sexy scent.

The Hydrating Body Wash soothes and nourishes skin with aloe, arnica, chamomile, lavender and white tea to calm. The Moisturizing Body Lotion contains jojoba, flax seed, rose hip, extracts of lavender, chamomile, calendula, cucumber, green & white tea and borage oils for hydration that lasts all night.

Each bottle is adorned with unique keepsake charms featuring messages like “HOPE, SPIRIT and SERENITY”. These special charms can be used as a keychain, hair tie, cell phone or handbag trinket.

For beauty inside and out each product is simply made with premium ingredients and pre-and pro-probiotics for balance and simply made without the use of parabens, glycols, SLS, phthalates, silicones, EDTA, artificial fragrances and petroleum based ingredients.

Body Washes and Body Lotions $9.99 each.

Earthly Elements is available at health food stores. Visit www.earthlyelements.com/ or call 1.800.645.2246 to find a retailer in your area.

Sunday Edition: Privé Eco-Friendly Travel Kit

Yes, you CAN take it with you! One of my all time favorite brands now has an awesome travel kit. Awesomeness that can pass carry-on regulations and keep your hair fabulous! Check it out!

Privé Introduces Eco-Friendly Hair Care You Can Take Anywhere
Revolutionary Concept Vert Shampoo And Conditioner In Refillable Travel Kit

Going Green will never go out of style. Perfect for the traveler, eco-conscious, or beauty guru, Privé Products, founded by celebrity stylist Laurent Dufourg, introduces their 2011Travel Kit complete with new and innovative refillable travel size bottles for the acclaimed eco-friendly Concept Vert Shampoo and Conditioner.

Privé's Concept Vert Travel Kit includes standard 6.7oz bottles of Concept Vert Shampoo and Conditioner with complimentary 3 oz travel size canisters which can easily be refilled using a special patent pending link that comes in the kit. Simply connect the standard and travel size bottles with the link to transfer the product. It is a simple process that allows you to take Concept Vert wherever you go.

Akin to the entire Concept Vert line, the new travel size products provide higher yields in smaller reusable packaging that equates to twice the washing and conditioning so products last longer than your standard travel size shampoo and conditioner, making them ideal for long trips, vacations, or a gym bag.

In addition to their environmentally-conscious packaging, Concept Vert products themselves are eco-friendly. The sulfate and paraben free product is enriched with pure organic extracts including Amazon Açaí and Babassu Oil to rejuvenate the hair with antioxidants and strengtheners as it gently nourishes and cleanses. Privé's Concept Vert Shampoo and Conditioner have also undergone color testing and have proven to preserve color-treated hair up to 44% with use. Unlike many commercial hair cleansers and conditioners, these products do not contain commonly used artificial ingredients such as sulfates, gluten, phthalates, DEA, TEA, mineral oil, paraffin, PABA, paraben, or artificial coloring.

Privé Products, always on a quest to reduce their carbon footprint, launched the Concept Vert line in April 2009. Recently, they have begun expanding the line and now includes the first ever non-aerosol mousse, Concept Vert Volumizing Froth. The certified Environmentally Preferred Product contains a unique high-yield formula and provides incredibly body, volume and definition. Free of artificial ingredients and contained in recyclable packaging, the Concept Vert line contributes to building a better tomorrow.

Privé's Concept Vert Travel Kit is a $68 value retailing for $58 at elite salons and spas nationwide. For purchase information and store locations, please visit http://www.privéproducts.com/.

Sunday Edition: Bobbi Brown Rich Lip Color

Just when you’re ready for something pretty and new…look at the gorgeousness from Bobbi Brown…

Bobbi Brown Rich Lip Color SPF 12

“What makes these lipsticks so modern is a formula that combines pigments with a colorless lipstick base. The result is crisp, clear color and full coverage without a heavy feeling” -Bobbi Brown

Bobbi’s new lightweight, color-saturated formula for lips. Created with colorless base, Rich Lip Color showcases the true color of pigments – so what you see is what you get. This creamy and emollient lipstick also moisturizes and conditions lips as it protects with SPF 12.

Available in 12 pale to deep shades: Bikini Pink, Soft Coral, Bare Pink, Heather Pink, Mod Pink, Plum Rose, Rose Blossom, Guava, Sweet Nectar, Cosmic Raspberry, Old Hollywood, Crimson

Available February 2011 from Bobbi Brown counters and www.bobbibrown.com.
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Sunday Edition: Remington’s T-Studio Pearl Ceramic Heated Clip Setters

OMG – how awesome are these? I have this fantasy of me sitting in a cute retro 50's-style dressing gown with my hair in clip setters while I put on my makeup for a night out. So adorable. Oh yeah…and functional. But also adorable.

Come Hither Hair

Create the bombshell hair you’ve always dreamed of with Remington’s T-Studio Pearl Ceramic Heated Clip Setters. These flirty pink rollers will get you in the mood while getting ready by creating sexy, red-hot curls!

Celebrity Stylist, Richard Marin, suggests making the look soft and romantic by brushing out curls after the hair has cooled and finishing the look with a spritz of shine spray.

The Remington T-Studio Pearl Ceramic Heated Clip Setters retail for $39.99 at Target, Ulta, and remingtonproducts.com.

Sunday Edition: Samy Volumizing Mousse and Hairspray

Got volume? Well you will. Check out Samy’s Mucho Mousse Volumizing Mousse and Skyscraper Volumizing Hair Spray…

Hair Care Friday: Infiniti Pro by Conair™ (review and GIVEAWAY!)

Yes, dear readers - the word of the day is “giveaway!” Thanks to the nice folks at Conair.

Infiniti Pro by Conair™ 1875-Watt Salon-Performance AC Motor Styling Tool



Blurb: Ergonomically designed for ultimate comfort. High performance for salon-quality results. A quiet, but powerful AC motor ensures fast drying time, which means less heat exposure for hair. Well-balanced and lightweight, this Infiniti Pro by Conair™ dryer delivers comfortably effortless styling and sensational results.

This is a fabulous dryer. Fab!...u!...lous! I’ve used it twice so far, and gotten great results.

The AC motor yields plenty of power, yet the dryer is very light and quiet. The first time I used it, I got my long, thick, curly hair from wet to a slightly wavy blowout in 10 minutes. 10 minutes! It was quick, my hair looked shiny, and there was almost no frizz. Not only was I impressed, but I got compliments as soon as I walked into work.

I checked out all the little gadgets and buttons the second time I used it, and loved the features. The filter is removable (aka cleanable), the heat and speed switches work very well, and the “cold shot” really delivers cold air. It also comes with a 4-year warranty. It’s an excellent, excellent dryer.

And…the folks at Conair are partnering with me for a giveaway! One lucky reader is going to win one of these fabulous dryers!

How to enter: Send an email to me at ifeelpretty@comcast.net with a comment about any of my 2010 or 2011 posts. Put "Conair Giveaway" in the subject line; and put the post title and your comment in the body of the email. You have as many chances to win as I have posts (just send each one in a separate email). I'll accept entries through Sunday, March 6 (11:59pm Eastern), and I’ll email the winner on Monday, March 7. The winner will have 72 hours to respond. If no response, I’ll move to the next randomly selected person. U.S. residents only and GOOD LUCK!

Be sure to check out the website for more info (including a video). And if you can’t wait for the results of my giveaway, check out the where to buy page and go get one!

Have a great weekend!

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Renewal: NeoStrata Foaming Glycolic Wash (review)

Yes, I’m still on that word-a-day kick (don’t worry, it’s a short week). Renewal is on my mind. I’m spending the week getting caught up, digging out and attending to things that are overdue. So to my way of thinking; all of this is preparing the way for feeling renewed and starting fresh with a clean (mostly) slate.

Not bad, eh?

So for our blogging pleasure, here’s something to clean, unclog and exfoliate. From NeoStrata.

Foaming Glycolic Wash

Blurb: Our most potent cleanser is formulated in an amphoteric system to capture the benefits of Glycolic and Lactobionic Acid while minimizing the potential for irritation. Formulated with 18% Glycolic Acid and 2% Lactobionic Acid to gently exfoliate, unclog congested pores, and stimulate cell renewal it prepares skin for optimal benefits of the regimen that follows. pH balanced. Not recommended for sensitive skin. Soap-free, fragrance-free. Non-sensitizing, non-irritating. Formulated with 18% Glycolic Acid and 2% Lactobionic Acid.

Love this cleanser! I love the foaming pump, and I love how well it cleans! After 3 days, I noticed a definite boost in exfoliation; and my pores look wonderful. Best of all, this cleanser wasn’t the least bit irritating. The description does warn that it’s not for sensitive skin, so take that into consideration; but my skin absolutely loved it. It was fresh, clean and completely smooth and balanced after I rinsed.

Take a look at the website for more info. This face wash was recommended by Prevention magazine, and there’s a link to the Today Show's "Defy Your Age" Challenge segment where it appeared. And for those of you (like me) who are breakout-prone; I highly recommend checking out the Neoceuticals section.

And…because I can’t stop surfing youtube, here’s a little something for your Thursday night…



Lyrics (because I can’t understand a damn word if I just listen):

Enough is enough, no one stops the Catarpillar
The weight of the world already too much to bear
You do it loud, mix it up with vanilla
The sound is the best I have heard for a million years

From the thunder that came I was never the same
and I would stop to think of what to do
I was taking a leap I was playing for keeps with you

The many touches on my skin
That’s lying between now and then
The many kisses on my chin
So severe
I can’t believe this state I’m in
I can’t believe what’s happening
We’ll never be this young again
Guinevere

A comic relief that makes room for my decision
To tighten the rope so that you never will forget
The music that comes from when playing with precision
The words are too rough I can’t shake it from off my head

I was making a mess for the better I guess
With a desire to be understood
There were people around with the need to get down for good

The many touches on my skin
That’s lying between now and then
The many kisses on my chin
So severe
I can’t believe what’s happening
I can’t believe the state I’m in
We’ll never be this young again
Guinevere

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Optimism: philosophy hope in a tinted moisturizer (review)

Hmmm…this week my blog is beginning to resemble one of those Word-A-Day calendars (I actually like those – and it's fun to cheat and look ahead).

I just happen to be feeling optimistic today. Some things appear a little rocky at the moment; but I’ve been walking around with a very strong sense that everything is going to turn out exactly the way it’s supposed to. And the journey will probably be pretty interesting.

So to spread around the sanguinity (yes, I just looked that word up); how about a little something from philosophy?

NEW hope in a tinted moisturizer (SPF 20)

Blurb: Now Hope in a Jar, the award-winning, lightweight daily moisturizer, can color your world beautiful with this tinted moisturizer. Its sheer, glowing color helps smooth and enhance the complexion. Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sun protection and a blend of antioxidants protect your skin against wrinkles and environmental attack. Its unique souffle texture absorbs quickly, yet leaves behind long-wearing coverage with a weightless texture that all skin types will love.

Here’s another looks-good-and-good-for-you item from philosophy. This new tinted moisturizer is a little more lightweight than hope in a jar, and contains all of the excellent antioxidant and moisturizing benefits – along with the added bonus of an SPF.

I used the “light” shade; and got pretty, sheer coverage that evened out my skin tone really well. It gave me a bit of a glow, yet still looked natural. I also found it very long lasting – which is always a nice surprise in a tinted moisturizer. What really made me happy, though, was that after using this for about a week, my skin definitely felt softer. Awesome.

Now is a great time to check out the website. Through tomorrow (2/24), you can choose a free gift with any $75 purchase (enter promo code “trialkit” for the Makeup Optional Skin Trial Kit, or enter “hopetrial” for the When Hope Is Not Enough Trial Kit). You can also enter to win 1 of 10 spa indulgence gift sets. philosophy can also be found at Macy's, Nordstrom, Sephora and Beauty.com.

Word.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Snugglage: CLEAN Warm Cotton Body Butter (review)

Last week was craziness. Not only was I getting ready for a trip; but there was all kinds of personal craziness going on at the same time. Last night I walked in the door, and I suddenly realized that all of the madness was over and I was home.

I’m planning to take things easy over the next couple of weeks, put all the frantic behind me, and just enjoy the wonderful warm feeling of being exactly where I belong. And to keep my lovely cocoon feeling going, I’m going to write about something warm, soft and pampering. From CLEAN.

Warm Cotton Moisture Rich Body Butter


Blurb: Inspire your senses with CLEAN Warm Cotton Moisture Rich Body Butter and say goodbye to oily residue. This soft and fluffy body cream is enriched with cotton extracts, illipe and shea butter to help deliver intense moisturization to condition and soften dry, rough skin without that greasy feel. Notes of Citrus, Lilac and Musk relax you and rejuvenate the senses. Dermatologically tested. Cotton Vantage™ is a smart technology based on cotton seeds, extracts and proteins that self-adjusts to help soothe, smooth and moisturize skin.

Since CLEAN is so well known for its fragrances, it’s no surprise that this body butter has an amazing scent. It smells just like clean linens fresh from the dryer. It’s light, warm, fresh and soft. Wonderful when you want to feel refreshed; and so comforting when you want something warm and familiar.

The body butter itself is rich and hydrating. It’s got plenty of excellent ingredients (like glycerine, shea butter, and cotton seed oil); and it absorbs well, moisturizes beautifully and lasts. It’s lovely and soothing on a dry winter night.

Visit the website and browse the entire bath and body collection. You can also check out what's new. CLEAN is available at HSN, Sephora and Ulta.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

The Winning Hand: CLEAN Giveaway Winner!

Congratulations to Tania K. – the winner of my CLEAN giveaway!

You’ll be receiving two tubes of CLEAN Anti-Bacterial Moisturizing Hand Cream. I really liked this item (check out my review); and I’m glad I get to pass on the goodness to one of my readers!

Thanks to everyone who entered, and special thanks to the folks at CLEAN for partnering with me!

(If you missed this giveaway – don’t worry! There’s another giveaway coming on Friday!)

Pre-Vacation Madness

Hello everyone! I'm getting ready for my long President's Day vacation and I won't have time to post until I get back next Tuesday. Sorry about that!

While I'm gone, though, here are a few fun videos from one of my all time favorite shows ever...SCTV.

Tuesday - Beauty Advice


Wednesday - Intellectual Improvement:


Thursday - Music Appreciation:


Friday - Cooking Advice:


Monday – Daytime Drama:



Enjoy and have a wonderful holiday weekend!

Valentine Kisses: Estée Lauder Lip Gelée and Lipstick from the Wild Violet 2011 Collection (review)

Happy Valentine’s Day everyone! I got all cranky last Thursday about the day of romance; so I'm balancing things out today with pretty pink stuff. For looking nice. And kissing people. And...stuff. From Estée Lauder.

Limited Edition Pure Color Lip Gelée (in “Electric Pink” and “Electric Cherry”)

Blurb: Ultra-light, ultra-sheer, clear gel gloss sweeps on a splash of color and wet, luminous shine. Exclusively in the Wild Violet collection for Spring 2011.

NEW Pure Color Long Lasting Lipstick (in “Wild Blossom”)

Blurb: Color so incredible, it leaves your lips wanting more. True Vision™ technology takes ordinary color and makes it extraordinary. In a seductive spectrum of shades, from sublime to vivid.

Whether you’re a lipstick lady or a gloss girl, the spring collection has wonderful kissable things that will make you very happy (and luckily you don’t have to wait for spring).

The Gelées are lightweight ultra sheer glosses with tons of slick shine. They go on smoothly without any heavy or sticky feeling. And I love the sheer color. “Electric Cherry” is a yummy, fresh maraschino, and “Electric Pink” is like a swoosh of candy. On the flip side, the new lipsticks provide dense, vibrant color. They go on like velvet, feel lovely and have wonderful staying power. “Wild Blossom” (a warm pale pink with a bit of gold shimmer) is about as romantic a shade as you can get.

The website has the entire Spring 2011 Collection (Wild Violet). It’s really gorgeous. Check out the colors on the Virtual Makeup Tool while you’re there. Estée Lauder is also available in fine department stores.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Hair Care Friday (on Sunday): Weleda Rosemary Hair Oil (review)

I know, I know. I’m all tardy with the hair care post. The weekend was a little bit hectic (yet again). It was a good weekend, though. A really good weekend.

But that’s no excuse for leaving you all without vital hair care product information, is it? So let’s get to it. Tonights tardy (but helpful) item is from Weleda.

Rosemary Hair Oil

Blurb: Get intensive nourishment with our revitalizing hair oil. It’s a deep-conditioning treatment that restores moisture, softens split ends and adds radiant shine as it penetrates. Organic rosemary oil completely coats your hair and scalp with an indulgent treatment of fragrant, evergreen nourishment. Burdock root extract has traditionally been used to alleviate dry scalp. Your hair, rich in the revitalizing fragrance of rosemary, looks and feels softer, smoother and more manageable from root to tip. Plan to spend some quality time blissfully running your fingers through your healthy, lustrous locks.

First…a word about Weleda. When we finally wised up and got groovy and concerned about sustainability and the environment, Weleda was there already. They had been there, done that and are still doing it. Weleda has been focusing on eco-friendly, sustainable practices and ingredients for about 90 years. Nice.

Second...this is great stuff. It works really well as a conditioner (a little bit goes a very long way), and a little bit on damp hair adds shine and softness to a blowout. My hands down favorite way to use this is as a pre-shampoo treatment. I massage it through my hair and scalp, and leave it on overnight (or at least a few hours). After I shampoo, my hair is gorgeous - silky, shiny and healthy. I’ve also been using this every other day on my dry ends, and I’ve seen a huge improvement.

Third…it smells wonderful.

The website has a great selection of skin care, bath and body products, and good things for mother and baby. Read about the history of the company, check out the community page, and take the quiz to enter for a chance to win a trip to Turkey. You can find Weleda products at Target, and health food stores (like Whole Foods).

Since we’re all about the nature today (sort of), check out this vintage fragrance ad. You got your field of flowers, your horses, etc. Enjoy!



(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Shadowy Thursday: Tarina Tarantino Magic Hour Cream Eyeshadow (review)

Yes, I am thinking shadowy thoughts tonight. Mainly having to do with Valentine’s Day plans (or the current lack of them). My horoscope has warned me to stay in the moment instead of overthinking and overtheorizing about everything; so I’m doing my darnedest not to control and plan everything. But it’s making me more than a little bit cranky.

So instead of a chipper, bright pink kind of item, I’m going in for the deep smoky purple shadowy item. Still passionate…but on the other side of perky. Something from Tarina Tarantino.

Magic Hour Cream Eyeshadow (in “Purple Velvet”)

Blurb: An ultra-pigmented, water-resistant, lightweight formula that works brilliantly as a shadow or liner. This versatile essential features a unique velvet-like texture that glides on evenly and smoothly, leaving an intense wash of rich, long-lasting color. Worn alone, it delivers a beautiful pop of shimmering color. It can be built and layered for customized coverage and makes an excellent base for Eye Dream Hypershadow, helping to intensify color payoff. These products are not tested on animals.

Right now, the “Purple Velvet” is a little bit difficult to find, but I’m so impressed with the formula that I’d recommend getting this in any color that’s available. I’ve become a big fan cream shadows lately. They go on smoothly, can get jostled without cracking, and don’t have any fallout when they’re being applied. They’re also great on the go because you can apply them with your fingertip in a pinch.

I’m also a fan of shadows doubling as liners (which this does beautifully). The shadow glides on evenly, and is slightly sheer. One layer gives a lovely, subtle shadowing, and additional layers yield a very dramatic look (great for day to evening). As a liner, it went on very easily – and I got a very sexy, smudgy line.

Most of the beauty items from Tarantino are available at Sephora, but there are a few special items on the website too. And depending on you feel about Valentine’s day, here’s some extra coolness. Check out the I Love Hearts, I Hate Hearts, and Bleeding Hearts bracelets (I’m not 100% sure which one I want yet – maybe all 3 of them).

I’m letting Little Miss Crankypants pick today’s retro ad. Remember this commercial? Whoa. You think I'm a little moody? No sireee…



(ftc disclosure: purchased myself)

Wednesday Giveaway: CLEAN Anti-Bacterial Moisturizing Hand Cream (giveaway!)

Today was a handful. Literally. Waaaaaay too much to do, and not enough time to do it. Mostly it was the juggling that got to me. I went from co-worker, to friend, to writer, to partner, to etc., etc. It would have been really nice to concentrate on one thing at a time; but sometimes that just isn’t how it shakes out.

I’ll hazard a guess that my hands aren’t the only ones that are juggling, making, creating, or just plain doing to much. So how about a giveaway in honor of our hands today? From ifp and the folks at CLEAN.

Anti-Bacterial Moisturizing Hand Cream

Blurb: Kills 99.9% of germs continuously for up to 4 hours, protecting you instantly and persistently! The formula features SafetyDerm® technology, which suspends germ-killing Benzethonium Chloride in airy-light layers of moisturizers to veils your hands like invisible germ-killing gloves for up to 4 hours. This formula moisturizes with Vitamin E, Avocado, Jojoba and Grape Seed Oil, to leave skin feeling silky and smooth. Alcohol Free. Paraben Free. Triclosan Free. Hypoallergenic.

I posted a review in July; and now thanks to the folks at CLEAN, I have two tubes to help one lucky reader’s hands stay protected and moisturized.

How to enter: Send an email to me at ifeelpretty@comcast.net with a comment about any of my 2010 or 2011 posts. Put "CLEAN Giveaway" in the subject line; and put the post title and your comment in the body of the email. You have as many chances to win as I have posts (just send each one in a separate email). I'll accept entries through Saturday, February 19 (11:59pm Eastern), and I’ll email the winner on Sunday, February 20. The winner will have 72 hours to respond. If no response, I’ll move to the next randomly selected person. U.S. residents only and GOOD LUCK!

In the meantime, If you want to browse, take a look at the website. You can also find CLEAN at HSN, Sephora and Ulta.

And...just to keep the whole juggling/doing thing going, today’s retro fragrance ad is all about the multitasking. Remember this?

Smooth Tuesday: Murad Pomegranate Exfoliating Mask (review)

"Smooth Tuesday” is wishful thinking. Today wasn’t very smooth at all. It was kind of rough actually. It felt really good to be home and pamper my skin a little tonight. Tonight’s bit of smoothness is from Murad.

Pomegranate Exfoliating Mask

Blurb: Antioxidant-rich mask restores, revitalizes and balances combination skin. Dissolves tired cells and frees skin's surface of trapped impurities. Softens, conditions and hydrates.

I got a sample of this (from Sephora) unintentionally. They were out of the sample I requested and substituted this Mask instead. Good thing for me – it’s excellent!

It exfoliates, and it’s a very gentle mask. I used part of the packet a few days ago, and was thrilled at how good it made my skin feel. It tingled slightly when I first applied it; and after I rinsed, my skin looked smoother, and it felt soft and fresh. It seems like you can get at least two uses out of each packet because I had plenty left over for tonight.

The Murad website is pretty huge, but definitely worth browsing. I suggest the What's New section. You can also look under General Concerns or fill out the What's Right for Me questionnaire to find other products. Murad is also available at Sephora, ULTA and beauty.com.

And since I’m nearly out of words for the day, check out how this hip 70’s gal gets her point across without words. Enjoy!



(ftc disclosure: received sample with purchase)

The Color of Monday: Prestige Classic Khol Eyeliner (review)

Because I just had to have one more eyeliner...you get to find out about one more lovely product. From Prestige Cosmetics.

Classic Khol Eyeliner (in “Rhapsody”)

Blurb: Easy one stroke application glides on smoothly without tugging or pulling. The Prestige Classic Khol Liner for eyes comes in a sleek silver barrel with quick-reference color matched end.

First…I don’t think I should be allowed to buy any more blue liners. That said, I’m still mighty glad I bought this one. “Rhapsody” is a really pretty dark cornflower blue. It has just a bit of pop, but it’s still very wearable. And even though I didn’t really need another blue liner, I don’t feel too guilty because it was an excellent value.

These pencils are soft, and glide on easily with smooth, saturated color. They aren’t completely smudge-proof after they set; but the great look, gorgeous colors, and value can’t be beat. Online they’re $3.95. That’s right…three dollars and ninety-five cents. So if you always wanted to know how you would look in “Kiwi” eyeliner, you could find out for less than five bucks. And...you could slap down another $2.95 and get yourself a super cute heart-shaped sharpener. It's all good, isn't it?

Check out all the colors on the website. There's also a Tips and Tricks page, and a Last Chance section with even bigger savings. You can find Prestige at ULTA, and drugstores like CVS.

In addition to my eyeliner addiction; I seem to have developed an equally serious addiction to youtube. Luckily youtube is free, so I can still spend all my disposable income on beauty products. This week, I’m going to share a few amusing retro fragrance ads. Here's one that promised to transform you from housewife to hottie.



(ftc disclosure: purchased myself)

Power Week (and Hair Care Friday): Moroccanoil Glimmer Shine Spray

Well I’ve made it to the end of the week, and I’m off to spend the weekend doing some goofing off. But before I disappear, it’s time for a speedy review of our fine Friday hair care item (with bonus ballad). From Moroccanoil.

Glimmer Shine Spray

Blurb: A Unique Ultra Light Non-Greasy Formula That Seals In Shine And Produces Silky Perfection For All Hair Types. Uses Argan Oil From South West Morocco. Argan Oil Naturally Renews Hairs Cell Structure And Consistently Restores Shine To Hair.

This is one of the niftiest products I’ve ever tried. It works.

It’s very light weight, and doesn’t feel oily or heavy at all. I found that following the directions works very well for this product (who knew?). Holding it 10-12 inches from my hair while spraying allows the spray to diffuse properly. I get a really lovely shine when I use it (especially after a blowout); and my hair feels really soft too.

Take a look at the website, and be sure to visit the trends of the season page. And click on the locate a salon page to find out where to buy.

I picked this final song because it’s a classic, quintessential example of a power ballad. (If you looked up “power ballad” in a text book, you would probably see a picture of Bad English.) I also chose it because the lyrics make me go all girly.

But the reason I posted it today is because of the HAIR. Everyone in the band is coiffed within an inch of his life. It's a power ballad with serious POWER HAIR. Enjoy and have a wonderful weekend!



(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Power Week: Liz Earle Hand Repair™, Superbalm™ & Cotton Rich Gloves (review)

Happy Thursday everyone! Today it’s all about the hands. I’m feeling pretty cheerful; but this winter weather, dry indoor heat, and hand washing is making my hands a little bit cranky. So let’s talk about some fine hand care. From Liz Earle.

Hand Repair™

Blurb: This powerful, non-greasy cream provides instant protection and relief for your hands. Helps to condition nails, soften cuticles and protect against dehydration. With panthenol (pro-vitamin B5), soothing echinacea, toning hops, plus antioxidants beta-carotene and natural source vitamin E. Suitable for all skin types.

Superbalm

Blurb: Our ‘emergency’ skin salve rescues and soothes skin. Made from pure plant oils and natural waxes plus shea butter, it gently softens and calms dry skin on hands, heels, elbows and lips and also helps condition nails and cuticles. Warm Superbalm in the palms of your hands before applying to nails and dry areas as and when needed. Naturally active ingredients include vitamin E, rosehip oil to help lock in moisture and neroli oil for its uplifting and restorative properties.

Cotton Rich Gloves

Blurb: The perfect addition to your hand care regime, use these gloves to get the most from your treatment.

For me, a nice hand cream is one of the easiest ways to pamper myself. During the winter, I keep some in my bag, at my desk, near my bed and in a coffee table basket. Sometimes just the fragrance can de-stress me immediately.

This trio from Liz Earle is super pampering. The Hand Repair smells amazing – it’s a gorgeous, herbal/lavender blend. I also like the way it feels. It absorbs quickly, and softens; but there’s absolutely no greasy feeling. The Superbalm is a fabulous rescue for really dry spots, dry cuticles, rough elbows, heels, etc.

And here’s an ultra powerhouse hand treatment: I give my hands a good scrub to exfoliate. Then right before bedtime, I combine a bit of Superbalm with a generous amount of Hand Repair, slather it on my hands, put the gloves on and keep them on overnight. In the morning, my hands are amazingly soft and smooth.

The website has plenty of things besides hand care, so take a look. Be sure to check out the hint-worthy Valentine's Gifts, and check out the Defy Dull Skin Offer.

And now that your hands are all soft and pretty, you can hold your disposable lighter up while you listen to today’s fine power ballad. Brought to us by one of my favorite bands of all time…Queen. I’m embedding the live version due to the additional awesomeness (especially around 2:40). Enjoy!



“Let us cling together as the years go by…Oh my love, my love…”

Sigh.

(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Thursday Stuff: Citrus Squeeze from Cake Beauty

Oh Cake Beauty! You and your delicious bath and body ways! Take a look at what they’ve got now…

Indulge in Citrus Squeeze™-Worthy Skin & Cake Kiss-able Lips

Give your main squeeze a sweet surprise this Valentine’s Day with scent-sational skin and dewy, soft kissable lips. Cake’s ultra-luxe Citrus Squeeze™ Collection is a trio of spa-like essentials infused with hints of lemon zest and vanilla that is guaranteed to leave your body cleansed, nourished, toned and oh-so- kissable! For an extra dose of indulgence, apply Cake Kiss™ shea butter infused lip butters that wear like a balm when worn alone or over top of your favorite lipstick for polished, glossy, smooch-worthy lips.

All Cake Beauty™ products are paraben-free and naturally based:

Citrus Squeeze™ Buttery Body Bubbles: This ultra gentle, SLS and paraben-free, body cleanser is packed with nourishing ingredients that leave skin soft and supple. Also available in Sweet Cheeks™

Citrus Squeeze™ Sinfully Smoothing Brown Sugar Body Scrub: This turbinado brown sugar scrub is richly infused with a trio of natural oils and a decadent moisturizing butter. After just one use skin will be smooth, supple and irresistibly buffed. Also available in Sweet Cheeks™.

Citrus Squeeze™ Better Bod Rub: This body butter takes the Cake by effectively combining moisturizing agents with active ingredients that help tone, firm, and reduce the appearance of dreadful dimples and not so fine lines. Also available in Sweet Cheeks™.

Cake Kiss™ Lip Butter: A moisturizing, sheer lip butter rich in shea butter, pure coconut oil, aloe vera and pure orchid complex that nourishes and protects lips leaving them dewy, soft and natural. Available in: Mulberry Sorbet, Pink Berry, Lemon Chiffon and Caramel Cream.

AVAILABLE: Sephora.com and Cakebeauty.com, glow.com, beautycollection.com, and dermstore.com

Thursday Stuff: Allmodern.com Makeover Contest!!

I partnered with CSN Stores a while back for an awesome giveaway – and right now Allmodern.com is having an awesome contest! Check out the gorgeous furniture, accessories and modern office furniture; and enter for a chance to win a $25,000 modern living room makeover! And you get a discount just for entering! Read all about it…

Allmodern.com has an incredible contest going on right now! Enter for a chance to win a $25,000 modern living room makeover with Celebrity TV Designer John Gidding as the grand prize. Second and third place will receive $2,000 and $1,000 in modern accessories. Also, everyone that enters will receive a 10% discount on their next purchase.

To enter the contest, go to Allmodern.com/chic and briefly describe how a modern update to your living room will help unleash your chic side! Contest ends April 15th, 2011!

Thursday Stuff: New from Philosophy

Check out some of the latest launches from the always fabulous philosophy…

look what's new from philosophy!

oh lolli lollipop lip shine duo: this limited-edition valentine’s day set includes fresh and fruity lollipop and chewy chocolate lollipop high-gloss, high-flavor lip shines that will make you feel like a kid again. their emollient formulas hydrate, smooth, and soften lips, while providing a sheer, beautiful shine and a hint of color. apply them for a fun pick-me-up any time of day. www.sephora.com

hope in a tinted moisturizer: hope in a tinted moisturizer incorporates hope skin care technology with sheer color and spf 20 uva/uvb protection. the 4-in-1, multitasking formula offers sheer glowing color, advanced moisture, antioxidants and broad-spectrum uva/uvb sun protection to help smooth the appearance of fine lines, protect skin against environmental attack and enhance any complexion, to keep skin fresh, beautifully hydrated and radiant. a unique airless pump helps protect the hydrating formula and dispense the perfect dose. www.sephora.com

miracle worker miraculous anti-aging eye cream: miracle worker miraculous anti-aging eye cream is clinically proven to significantly improve the appearance of deep wrinkles and lines around the delicate eye area, while improving skin elasticity and firmness. this luxurious, high-density formula deeply hydrates as it works miracles on the most common aging eye concerns. www.philosophy.com

research results:
clinically-tested results based on use over four-to six-weeks, twice daily:
- 95% felt improved hydration
- 95% showed improvement in the look of fine lines
- 91% showed improvement in elasticity
- 86% saw an improvement in the look of wrinkles
- 70% saw an improvement in the look of deep wrinkles

Power Week: Lancôme Color Design Lipstick in “Sugared Maple” (review)

Well the snow day (ice day, whatever) did not materialize. What did materialize, though, was an incredibly hectic morning. Today I went to work with…I hope you’re sitting down…NO MAKEUP. That’s right. And I didn’t feel all that pretty either.

Luckily, I keep a stash at my desk; so I remedied the situation as soon as I could. And once I got the pretty back, I decided to blogfully appreciate one of my favorite go-to lipsticks. From Lancôme.

Color Design Sensational Effects Lip Color (in "Sugared Maple")

Blurb: If your lips long for full, fade-free color in tempting textures, and a shade selection that would inspire any makeup artist; the search is over. This luxurious lipstick is infused with soothing ingredients, so lips feel soft and comforted all day. Choose from four fabulous finishes: cream, sheen, shimmer, metallic and matte.

This is one of those fabulous all-purpose, quick fix beauty items that rides to my rescue every time. The formula is excellent. It feels great, keeps my lips soft, and is incredibly long-wearing. When the shine wears off, it leaves a stain behind - so I don’t get the “ghost lip” thing.

And this shade is one of the best go-with-everything-without-being-boring colors I’ve ever owned. It’s a reddish-brown (or maybe it’s a brownish-red) with a hint of sheen. It tends to seem more brown or red depending on what I’m wearing. Some outfits even bring out a few pink tones. It really does match everything. That’s why I keep it at my desk.

Check out the website to browse the other 38 shades. Visit the What's New section, and be sure to peek at the Special Offers section. Lancôme is also available in fine department stores and at Sephora.

Since I left the house sans maquillage (without makeup) today, I’m bringing you a grunge-era 90’s power ballad. So unbutton your flannel shirt, sit back, and think about how incredibly intense everything is.



(ftc disclosure: purchased myself)

Power Week: Pixi Endless Silky Eye Pen (rave review)

Greetings everyone! Today has been madness. We’re preparing for another possible snow day (or rather an ice day), and I’ve been rushing around trying to get things done in case everything is closed tomorrow. One of the things I need to get a handle on this year is my schedule. Somehow it's finally sinking in that there is always going to be a lot to do. And since that isn’t going to change, I need to learn to balance things a bit better. That means setting a few limits and drawing a few lines.

Gosh…did somebody just say “lines?” Heh. How about some pretty-colored lines? From Pixi.

Endless Silky Eye Pen

Blurb: Long wearing, non-transfer, and waterproof eye pen gives the intense effect of a liquid liner but is much easier to apply. These gorgeous eye liners glide on like seamless silk, and in a single sweep motion they create a flawless, solid jewel-toned line. They provide the look of a liquid liner but are foolproof to apply and come in six fabulous colours. Endless Silky Eye Pens contain skin-soothing vitamin E and natural mineral pigments. Paraben-free. Mineral oil-free. Preservative-free. Hypoallergenic.

For those of you that are also short on time: Fabulous. Go buy them.

For those who have a bit more leisure…I was blown away by these pencils. The colors look beautiful, glide on (yes, like silk), set to a smudge-free finish, and have the most dense, saturated color I’ve ever come across in a pencil. I hope they keep putting out new colors. I tried the “Black Blue” (looks exactly like black/blue), and I’m planning to get two more (“Black Cocoa” and “Deep Plum”).

Pixi has just re-launched their online store at their website. Check it out for web exclusives, and sign up for the Pixi rewards program. Right now you can get free shipping on orders $50 and up – and receive an additional 20% off online (use coupon code: TWENTYOFF). You can also find these gorgeous pencils at Target.

And now here’s my second Power Ballad installment. Speaking of eyeliner, I suspect Steven Tyler’s eyes have seen a pencil or two over the years. But who cares - he’s hot. Guys who seem like they may suddenly throw off civilization and carry you away are hot. So listen up (and get ready to write your boyfriend’s name on your Pee Chee folder).



(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)