While I’m Away: A Perfect Prom Look From essence

I think my prom days are behind me; but I’m still loving what I’m seeing so far from this brand. And now that you’re older and wiser; check out their suggestions and make them your own…

Perfect Your Prom Look

You’ve picked out the dress, the jewelry and the date (hopefully!), now all you need is your final makeup look for the big night! Whether you want to go movie star glam with tight waves and a bold lip or simply sweet with pastels and nail polish, essence cosmetics has everything you need to achieve your signature prom look! Take a look at the below products that we are sure will win you the Prom Queen crown!

Bold Lip – Use the essence stays with me lipgloss in kiss kiss kiss for a dramatic look!

Winged Eyeliner – Pair your red bold lip with classic winged black eyeliner using essence gel eyeliner in black with the essence gel eyeliner contoured brush, heads will be sure to turn!

Pastel Eyes – Keep your look simple and sweet with essence mono eyeshadow in ultra violet!

Porcelain Skin – Avoid those annoying shiny photos with the essence mattifying powder, it will keep your skin radiantly under control all night long!

Final Touch – Add a fun pop of unexpected color with the essence colour & go nail polish in this lovely teal color, perfect for spring!

Tantalizing Wednesday: LORAC's New Limited Edition TANtalEYES Palette (review)

I know all about tantalizing. I’m getting ready to go back to my weight loss program after a month of starts and stops. And the last couple weeks were mostly “stops.” Delicious stops. Related to recipe testing, fun events and Easter candy. And Easter waffles. And Mexican food. And...pie. Eeeek!

On Friday, I’m going to set temptation aside and refocus on my weight loss goals. Luckily, I have some wonderful (non-judgemental) support. I also have other tantalizing no-calorie treats to take my mind off of snacks. No-calorie treats in pretty colors. Like this one from LORAC.

NEW! TANtalEYES Palette

Blurb: LORAC TANtalEYES Palette will have you sizzling all season long! Give your sex appeal a boost with 4 shimmering, mineral-infused, ultra-pigmented Baked Eye Shadows for long lasting, sultry eyes and a travel size TANtalizer Body Bronzing Luminizer for glowing skin that shines like the stars' on the Red Carpet.

I actually think LORAC palettes might be more tempting than pie. Might. This one is especially yummy. It contains a travel-sized tube of Body Bronzing Luminizer; and a Baked Eye Shadow quad housed in a golden box that’s both glamorous and practical.

The Body Bronzer is a sheer, shimmery cream that slides on, and gave my skin a shimmery (sheer) bronze glow. I especially loved it on my legs (which always need help – especially at the end of winter).

Of course the outstanding part of this Palette is the shadow quad. The shade on the top left is a pearly highlighter that made my brow bone pop. It also made a gorgeous halo around my inner eye. The top right shade is a pretty golden bronze – perfect by itself during the day, and even more perfect when vamped up with the other shades for evening. The bottom right is a deep copper that looked beautiful in the crease, and made for a really dramatic evening lid. The bottom left shade is my absolute favorite. It’s a golden shimmering olive that looks both chic and exotic. Both bottom shades also looked amazing when applied as liners with either a wet or dry brush.

LORAC shadows are awesome, and these four shades are must-haves in my opinion.

Visit the website and check out the entire Summer 2011 Collection. You can also get some fab Red Carpet Tips, and score some bargains in the VIP Discount section. LORAC is also found at Sephora, ULTA, DermStore.com, and beauty.com.

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

Retro Movie Wednesday: Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Shadow Palette (review)

It looks like the rest of my week is going to be a little rushed. But there’s always time for beauty. Especially if it’s a gorgeous new palette from Estée Lauder.

Bronze Goddess Island Oasis Eye Shadow Palette

Blurb: Shades of paradise. Highlight, define and dramatize your eyes with the shimmering metallics and sunlit satin shadows of summer. Luxurious compact contains 6 complementary shades to wear alone or together-the possibilities are endless.

This yummy, sun-drenched collection of colors is from the Bronze Goddess Soleil Summer Color 2011 Collection. The whole collection is warm, rich and exotic.

The colors in this palette are beautiful and flattering. It’s a range of warm bronzes, glowing golds, a shimmering dark lava (far left), and a pale pearly shade (far right) that reminds me of white sand beaches. My favorite, though, is the gorgeous aqua color. It reminds me of mermaids. Sigh.

Visit the website and check out the whole Summer 2011 Collection. I also recommend playing with the colors on the Virtual Makeup Tool. Estée Lauder is also available in fine department stores.

And since I’m talking about eye candy…how about the photo shoot scene from “Eyes of Laura Mars?” This movie had fashion, danger, mystery and Faye Dunaway (not to mention Tommy Lee Jones looking all studly and earnest).



(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)

The Color of Monday (Extravagant): Estée Lauder Pure Five Color Shadow Palette and Long Lasting Lipstick from the Holiday 2010 Collection (review)

It’s getting kind of late (okay more than kind of), but I absolutely cannot go to sleep until I get my beauty rave on. Estée Lauder’s holiday collections are amazing; and this year’s is no exception. And…I got to check out two fabulous items!

Pure Color Five Color EyeShadow Palette in "Extravagant Gold" (Limited Edition)
Blurb: Eyeshadow that makes eyes come alive. Versatile 5-color palette allows you to play with intensities, mix and blend shades, express different attitudes-soft to bold. Holds 5 varying color intensities and finishes: matte, satin, shimmer or metallic. The highlighter is the magic touch. Use it to brighten the look and widen eyes instantly. The deepest shade structures and defines the eyes. Ophthalmologist-tested. Fragrance-free.

Pure Color Long Lasting Lipstick in "Extravagant Berry" (Limited Edition)

Blurb: Pure impact. Pure luxury. Pure emotion. Pure Color. Lead a Colorful Life. Intense, long-wearing color creates maximum impact. High fashion shades with medium-to full coverage. Luxurious formula pampers, comforts with Vitamins C and E plus natural moisturizers. Delicately fragranced with a delectable fresh fig scent. Dramatic. Provocative. Perfect. We've got your color.

I reviewed one of the 5-color shadow palettes in July and fell in love. The packaging (gorgeous, sleek, and portable) and the formula (velvety, easy to blend, luxurious, and long lasting) are excellent. And the colors in this limited edition palette are superb. A series of tawny/golden shades ranging from palest champagne to a deep cocoa (which also worked as a beautiful liner). The colors are versatile, sophisticated, and can be worn for subtle effects during the day, then dialed way up for evening.

This was my first time trying a Pure Color Lipstick and I was blown away! The shade is a yummy berry with a hint of gold shimmer – absolutely lovely. The color is deep, highly saturated, and the finish is just the right balance of elegance and shimmer. The formula is incredible – rich, luscious and velvety. It softened my lips, felt amazing, and lasted like you wouldn’t believe. Not only did it stay put; but when it did start to wear off, it left a lovely berry-hued stain behind. A truly fabulous lipstick!

There’s an entire Extravagant Holiday Collection to be browsed on the website. And you can also check out what's new and visit the promotions page. Estée Lauder is also sold in fine department stores.

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

Your Thursday Face: Rare Earth Minerals Mineral Foundation and Mineral Blush / Eyeshadow (review)

Hi everyone! Hope you all liked yesterday’s little SkyMall detour. As promised, we are jumping right back into the prettiness fray with a bit of beauty from an aswesome Australian company: rare earth minerals.

Mineral Foundation

Blurb: Rare Earth Minerals Loose Powder Foundation consists of the Purest and Finest Minerals sourced directly from Ancient Mineral Springs. Not only does our product accentuate your natural beauty, blending beautifully with your natural complexion, but also provides your skin with the additional benefits of naturally occurring Minerals. Rare Earth Minerals Loose Powder Foundation is ph neutral and effective for all skin types. It is naturally processed using Pure Water to retain the integrity of the Minerals. No chemical agents or reagents are used.

Mineral Blush / Eyeshadows

Blurb: Formulated using the purest and finest Minerals sourced directly from the Daylesford region of Victoria. Consisting of Magnetite, Hematite, Kaolinite and high concentrations of Potassium, our Mineral Blush is of the highest purity and standard available. Safe & effective for all skin types. Highly Concentrated. Long Lasting. Luxurious Silken Texture.

The foundation is fabulous! It’s almost weightless and disappears immediately - leaving sheer, natural coverage that mattifies, hides pores and smoothes out skintone. It controlled oiliness throughout the day, yet it never creased, caked or felt dry. The mineral blushes and shadows were also excellent. They’re very highly pigmented, yet they blended well and had wonderful lasting power. I especially loved the blush I tried (in “Russet”). It went on smoothly and looked incredibly natural.

I also love that this company is dedicated to providing natural products (100% Australian made and owned). All of their cosmetics, skincare and treatments are ph neutral, effective, made with pure water, and without chemical agents or re-agents.

Rare Earth Minerals products are only available through their website. Visit the site, read about the various minerals in their products, and check out the testimonials.

Happy Thursday!

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

Go Get One! NARS Cream Eyeshadow (rave review)

One of the things I love about being a beauty "enthusiast" (spelled j-u-n-k-i-e) is that there’s always something new. And even when there isn’t something new, there’s something that’s new to me. Today’s fabulous new-to-me item is from NARS.

Cream Eyeshadow (in “Grand Bleu” and “Mykonos”)

Blurb: Soft, supple cream-to-powder formula that provides long-lasting color. The ultra-pigmented shades are balanced in a lightweight texture, transparent in application. The soft-blending formula can be worn alone or layered under powder eyeshadow for long-lasting color and depth.

How I managed to skip over these I will never know. (Okay, actually I do know. NARS has so many amazing products, it's easy to miss something.)

Anyway, when I was shopping one of the private sales on Beautyticket.com, I noticed that they had a NARS Cream Eyeshadow available (in "Grand Bleu"). Never having tried one of their cream shadows was the perfect excuse to buy one.

I loved it!! This is one of the most awesome shadow formulas I’ve ever used! The creamy color goes on in a sheer wash. (The color is also somewhat buildable if you want more intensity.) What I fell in absolute love with, though, is how evenly and precisely it goes on – and how easy it is to blend. It also works well as a base under more vibrant colors.

“Grand Bleu” is a pale, sky blue. I loved it so much that I high tailed it to my nearest Sephora and bought another Creamshadow in “Mykonos” (a muted copper that goes with absolutely everything I own). Both have a flattering shimmer, apply beautifully, set to a powder and wear all day long without creasing or fading. I wish these came in every color!

Check out the colors they do have on the website (including the cream shadow duos). While you’re there, take a look at the latest page. NARS is also available at Sephora, beauty.com, and department stores like bloomingdales and Saks.
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(ftc disclosure: purchased myself)

Worth the Wait: Urban Decay Stardust Eyeshadow (review)

Hello everyone! I meant to post this yesterday, but the day was gone before I knew it. Not to worry – that just means you'll be getting two reviews today!

Speaking of waiting (see post title); I had to (gasp!) wait to try this out. There was absolutely no way I could justify buying another shadow this month (especially a purple one). Luckily Sephora came to the rescue – they offered an awesome bag of samples to Beauty Insiders; and one of them was a deluxe sample from Urban Decay.

Stardust Eyeshadow (in "Retrograde")

Blurb: It’s something unexpected in eyeshadow: an explosion of stars. Stardust shadows’ silky texture delivers an incredible amount of sophisticated, twinkling sparkle. Boasting 40% more glitter than our most sparkly shadows, Stardust delivers a sheer wash of color, topped with teeny bits of iridescent sparkle that glisten like wet snow. The glitter (a pricey ingredient called reflex), actually stays on your lids. No fallout, no chunky glitter… just stunning, sparkling eyes.

From uptown neutrals like black, grey and brown to bright pops of turquoise, green and purple, the galaxy of shades helps create tons of looks, and blend well with our other Eyeshadows and Eye Pencils. The futuristic, squeeze-open case holds over TWO TIMES the amount of product in our other Eyeshadows. With all this Stardust, you’ll be dreaming of a date night at the laserium…

I have a whole lot of purple/lavender/violet/mauve shadows on my vanity; and I still found this one to be outstanding. For starters, the shade is gorgeous (purple…duh), and the quality is fabulous. The color stayed put all day - and so did the sparkle! What I also loved about the formula was that the shimmer (created with something called "reflex") didn't make the texture grainy at all. In fact it was really silky.

Instead of looking glittery, the finish is more of a soft twinkle. There's plenty of sparkle, but the effect is kind of a dewy, soft focus. And after it sets, there's a slight "glazed" effect (which added a bit more dreaminess).

I applied it three ways and got three very different results. With a sponge tip, I got lovely, fairly saturated color. With a dry brush, I got a sheer, shimmery wash; and when I used a wet brush, I got stunning, intense color with lots of coverage (almost like a foil effect).

You can check all of this out on the website (as well as some of the cool new stuff). If you're feeling budget conscious like me, be sure to visit the clearance section. And if you're looking for inspiration, check out the Steal Our Looks page. Urban Decay is also found at Sephora, Ulta, and beauty.com.
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(ftc disclosure: received as sample with purchase)

Friday The 13th Fun: Estée Lauder NEW Pure Color Eyeshadow

More new and beautiful things from Estée Lauder…

Estée Lauder Introduces New Pure Color Eyeshadow by Tom Pechaux
A Collection of 48 Brilliant Shades and 4 Dynamic Finishes Inspired By Visionary Style

"I think eyeshadow brings to a woman a lot of self-confidence and power. The new Pure Color EyeShadow shades and finishes are sensual and powerful and I love them. These are definitely my babies." – Tom Pecheux, Creative Makeup Director, Estée Lauder.

Estée Lauder and Creative Makeup Director Tom Pecheux introduce the new definition of high-impact color with a vibrant collection of eyeshadows that envelop the eyes in raw attitude and style. Long lasting pigments, fade resistant formulas and four buildable finishes are fused with bold, rich hues to create infinitely versatile eye looks. From natural to smoldering, this couture collection of shadows is expertly crafted and specially formulated to maintain the highest quality of color performance, uniting beauty and fashion. Revel in the variety of rich shades from plush purple and antique gold, to smoky graphite and sweet sugar… the new Pure Color for Eyes.

48 Brilliant Shades
• Exclusive True VisionTM Technology incorporates intense, highly pigmented shades for a saturated, color rich application
• A crystalline laminate polymer intensifies color clarity and vibrancy in one easy stroke
• A subtle to high impact color palette ensures a shade for all skin tones and desirable eye looks
• 48 powerful shades create endless color combinations and eye looks

4 Dynamic Finishes: From a rich matte to a modern metallic, these four, multi-dimensional finishes animate the eyes for a boldly rich statement:
MATTE: Jet milled coated pigments provide a contemporary, suede-like finish
SATIN: A low lustre texture combined with a refined luminosity creates a soft, sophisticated sheen
LUMINOUS: Prismatic light-reflecting pearls provide a chic, lustrous sparkle
METALLIC: Flattened and round pearls are paired to create intense, vivacious drama

High Performance Formula
• Technologically advanced reflective pearls provide an exclusive ultra brilliance
• Buildable coverage from a slight whisper of color to a dramatic flush. Wear alone or layer shades for a customized look
• A perfect blend of spherical and smooth powders deliver a flawless, smooth application
• Color-true formula will not fade, flake or crease

Modern, Chic Design
• A sleek, golden mirrored compact with oversized Estée Lauder cartouche for a luxurious presentation
• The jeweled-like compact, incorporates a mirror for ease in application
• The new, specially designed sponge-mitt applicator was created to work with all four finishes
• Delivers exceptional adhesion and application on the entire eye area
• Specially designed micro pores apply each formula evenly and smoothly

The Pure Color EyeShadow will be available at all Estée Lauder counters nationwide and www.esteelauder.com starting in August 2010.
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Endless Possibilities: Estée Lauder Pure Color Five Color EyeShadow Palette (review)

If you scroll down, you'll see that I posted the entire awesome new Fall 2010 Collection. It's gorgeous! I'm thrilled that I'm going to be trying out some of the items! You've done it again, Estée Lauder!

Pure Color Five Color EyeShadow Palette (in "Surreal Violet")

Blurb: Eyeshadow that makes eyes come alive. Versatile 5-color palette allows you to play with intensities, mix and blend shades, express different attitudes-soft to bold. Holds 5 varying color intensities and finishes: matte, satin, shimmer or metallic. The highlighter is the magic touch. Use it to brighten the look and widen eyes instantly. The deepest shade structures and defines the eyes. Ophthalmologist-tested and Fragrance-free.

How could I not jump at the chance to try out this palette? Purple is my favorite color, and this palette is jaw-droppingly gorgeous! It comes in a beautiful, slim compact with a very generous-sized mirror. I like using my own brushes, but the ones that are included are great for travel. The formula is wonderful: velvety, easy to blend, and lasts all day without creasing, fading or changing color.

And the colors…just heavenly. I have a lot of purple on my vanity, and these colors still managed to stand out. They range from the softest, most neutral grey/purple to a deep smoky eggplant (which also looks great as a liner). There's also a pale, gossamer highlighter, a shimmery violet, and a satiny lilac. They're all gorgeous and can be worn in infinite combinations! I plan to see just how many I can come up with.

You can check out the whole Fall 2010 collection on the website, as well as get application tips (and enter the Monthly Sweepstakes). I suggest going to your nearest beauty counter and trying them out, though.
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(ftc disclosure: sample/product received from manufacturer or representative)

Eye Feel Much Better: Lancôme Paris Color Design Shadows (review)

I wanted to talk about these shadows yesterday, but my brain refused to cooperate. Well, today is a lot more sane – thank goodness! So let's get to it…today's beauty fun is from Lancôme Paris.

Color Design Sensational Effects Eye Shadow

Blurb: Build a wardrobe of sensational eye color! The possibilities are endless with this truly versatile range of hues designed by Lancôme Global makeup artists. Formulated with exclusive Micro-Air technology for ultimate smoothness and blendability. Long-lasting color glides on effortlessly. Available in a chic palette of multiple shades in five finishes: dazzling Metallics, twinkling Shimmers, soft, illuminating Sheens, pigment-packed Intense shades and color-rich Mattes.

A while back, Lancôme was offering an awesome GWP that included two shadow quads. Needless to day, I snapped it up.

For some reason, I've only reviewed Lancome once - that will be remedied (I came home with a lot more than eye shadow). But I should have written about their shadows long ago. Lancôme shadows have been some of my all time favorites since I started wearing makeup. (My mom bought Lancôme, and I used to sneak into her beauty stash play with her stuff.) My friends and I also did the "teen beauty counter thing" at the mall (stopping at all the beauty counters to "pretty up"). Wait…I kind of still do that.

Anyway, as far back as I can remember, these shadows have always found their way to my eyelids. Mainly because they're excellent. Long before any of the flashy newfangled brands (which I also love) came along; Lancôme was making high-quality, velvety shadows in fabulous colors. And they're still doing it. The shadows glide on like silk, blend easily and have unmatched staying power.

Warm Tones:

Cool Tones:

I tried my best to show you how the quads complemented each other. There wasn't a single one of these shades that I didn't love. The standout from the Warm Tones was the shimmery "Bikini Golden" (a pale, shimmery gold). I love it because it's both glamorous and neutral. My absolute favorite, though, came from the Cool Tones quad. "Luring" is one of the coolest colors I've stumbled across in a while. The computer screen won't give you the full effect, but it's a pale, shimmery grey-blue with flecks of lilac. It's fantastic – it looks amazing by itself as well as layered over blues, purples, browns, pinks and golds. Both of the darker colors in each of the quads made excellent contouring shades and liners (I love to use the same shade to contour and line).

Happily, all 8 colors in the quads are carried in their regular lineup. And there are over 50 Color Design shades to choose from. There's a swatch display on the website, and you can also check out the best sellers or visit the beauty school page. Much as I like the website, though, I suggest you mosey on over to a makeup counter at a nice department store (or Sephora) for a little "pretty up" time.
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(ftc disclosure: received as a gift with purchase)

Fun with (Stila) Smudge Pots (not exactly a review – more like a helpful hint)

Hi everyone! Today it's back to work and four days of "regular" life. I had planned to feature a product I tried out over the weekend…but said product ended up being very un-blogworthy. Too bad. It looked really promising. And since I have a policy of only featuring products I love; I suddenly find myself with a "free" space in my blog calendar. (Hideously organized people like me actually have a calendar of their upcoming stories – it keeps me from posting 20 eyeliner reviews in a row).

Anyway…a lot of things this weekend didn't go as planned. There were some good surprises, and some less than good ones. But still…it was a long weekend. Even though some plans went awry; I still got to sleep in, talk on the phone, hang out with friends, enjoy the nice weather, and sing along to the radio on a long car ride. Not bad.

Aaaaaand. I discovered the most stay-put, budge-proof, will-never-ever-move shadow combo ever! Using fabulous items (previously reviewed) from Stila.

Smudge Pots (in Bronze, Kitten and Golden Noir/Black Cat)

Blurb: The verdict is in, and smudge pots take the prize for sexy eyes! This unique gel eyeliner and shadow is an innovative alternative to traditional powder and liquid formulas. This clever little gel has an inky intensity that leaves powder shadows in the dust. A favorite for the sultry, smoky eye. Apply with a liner brush for razor-sharp precision or smudge it with your fingers for more complete coverage. Remember to always close the airtight lid to keep the gel soft and pliable.

Okay, you've all seen the blurb before on my blog. And you all know that I'm a huge fan of Smudge Pots. I've used them as shadows sometimes; but I'd never done my whole eye with them. I got the idea while I was waiting for the air conditioning to kick in so I could put on my makeup. I had a really long day/evening ahead, and I suddenly got the idea to use nothing but Smudge Pots.

I used a small concealer brush and applied "Kitten" on my brow bone, and on the inner corners as a highlighter. Kitten has a really beautiful pale pink shimmer, so it did a great job of lifting and adding subtle light.

For my lids, I used "Bronze." I did a sheer layer on my lids, and then blended more layers in the creases and edges for contouring. I got a shimmering, deep bronze lid that I loved.

Finally, I used my liner brush to line my eyes with "Golden Noir" (If you don't have this color, I suspect "Black Cat" would work just as well).

The look was awesome! The smudgepots went on smoothly, were easy to blend, and then set to a budge-proof finish. And the liner went on perfectly over the shadows. I looked polished and glamorous without looking harsh or "painted."

And it stayed put all day and all night! I was out in the heat and humidity, met friends for coffee, took a 3 hour car-ride with the top down, went to a club, got home around 3:30 am; and every Smudge Pot smidgen was still there. I couldn't believe it - absolutely no smudging or fading. Totally fab.

This is definitely a keeper for the upcoming months of East Coast heat and humidity. I expect this could last through just about any barbecue or pool party that summer could throw my way.

If you want to see all of the gorgeous smudge pot colors, check out the website. There are 8 regular shades as well as the Smudge Pot Collection and Barbie Loves Stila sets.

Happy Tuesday!
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Beauty Appointment with Dell Ashley: YSL Extravaganza (review, tips and general euphoria)

Let’s start the week with a bonanza of beauty! If you’ve been faithfully reading and scrutinizing my blog (or at least skimming it when you’re supposed to be working); you may have seen a little heads up a while back about some amazing store events from Yves Saint Laurent (aka: YSL) Beauty. YSL national makeup artist, Dell Ashley is appearing all over the country right now to introduce some beautiful new looks, shades and products.

After posting about the event, I decided to make an appointment. It turns out Dell was going to be at my local Nordstrom (in King of Prussia) last Wednesday – and I had the day off. I went in the afternoon, and got to meet Dell and some of the other YSL experts. I feel really lucky. Dell is an incredibly talented and skilled artist (and a super nice guy). He not only made me look fabulous; he also explained everything and gave me some amazing tips! First the products…

Hydra Feel Water Gel Moisturizer

Blurb: A breakthrough from YSL Beauté Research. Drawing on sugar technology, this hydra-repleneshing moisturizer supports the skin's natural hydration mechanisms. Upon application, the skin is bathed with freshness. A refreshing, creamy gel that gives comfort to normal to combination skin.

Temps Majeur Eye Contour

Blurb: Extremely fine and silky, this complete eye contour treatment features a selection of high-performance active ingredients to regenerate, energize and enhance the eye area. Upon application, the eyes light up. The eye contour is smoothed and refreshed. Day after day, dark circles and puffiness fade away.

Top Secrets Pore Refiner (with Skincare Brush)

Blurb: A unique pore refining skincare brush for combination skin prone to imperfections. This targeted skincare product instantly reduces the look of enlarged pores and mattifies shine, making skin appear visibly smoother and more even. Skin quality is improved and ready for a flawless make-up application.

Teint Resist Long Wear Transfer Resistant Foundation (SPF 10)

Blurb: Guarantees unfailing wear and radiance for up to 14 hours. The luminous, transfer-resistant formula forms perfectly to the skin for a soft and seamless result. Pigments are specially coated for a color-true effect and the formula absorbs excess oil through the day, for a complexion which always looks and feels fresh.

Touche Éclat Radiant Touch

Blurb: Light, luminosity, radiance. The award winning, must-have, take anywhere instant highlighter that banishes shadows, erases signs of fatigue and leaves your skin looking radiant. Touche Éclat is 8 hours of sleep in a pen - the one item no woman can be without.

Ombre Solo Mono Eyeshadows

Blurb: Ombre Solo shades the eyelids with a matt, satiny or iridescent veil of endlessly adjustable and long-lasting colour. The exceptional smoothing effect reveals the radiance of the colours for a wonderfully luminous makeup.

Dessin Du Regard Crayon Yeux Haute Tenue Eye Pencils

Blurb: Updated with a new formula, with highly pigmented colour for a deep impact and long-lasting finish. The texture glides onto the skin effortlessly, and Jojoba Oil makes the finish on the skin smooth and comfortable. A wax adhesive acts as a fixing agent to reinforce the intensity of the pigment for hours.

Volume Effet Faux Cils Noir Radical Mascara

Blurb: The ultimate luxurious mascara for a false lash effect in our deepest black colour ever, for a dangerously glamourous look. NOIR RADICAL takes our must-have industry leading mascara, Volume Effet Faux Cils Luxurious Mascara, to a new depth with mineral pigments more intense than traditional iron oxide black pigments, to achieve the blackest black, deep and powerful.

Touche Blush

Blurb: A true beauty accessory, a makeup concept that transforms blush application into a moment of pure pleasure. The ingenious packaging is associated with an ultra-fine powder to provide a luminous and natural makeup result.

Dessin Des Lèvres Lip Liner

Blurb: A high precision and richly textured lip pencil to outline, re-define and colour the lips.

Rouge Pur Shine Sheer Lipstick (SPF 15)

Blurb: This shiny lipstick with exceptional gliding properties illuminates the lips with sparkling, transparent colours. The exclusive long golden cap opens in a "click" to reveal a delightful, hydrating texture that reshapes the lips while ensuring comfort and protection.

Gloss Pur Pure Lip Gloss

Blurb: Pure colour and high shine. YSL's newest lip gloss is everything you need to achieve an ultra-sophisticated every-day look. Based on YSL's top selling lip gloss, Golden Gloss, Gloss Pur delivers a sparkle-free beautiful and glossy sheen to the lips.

Amazing products and an amazing experience! Dell and everyone at Nordstrom were friendly, helpful and extremely knowledgeable (and their makeup was perfect). Every single one of the items Dell used was outstanding! I could easily do a separate post on each one; but part of the experience was getting to see how they all worked together for a total look.

The skincare standouts were the Hydra Feel Moisturizer and the Eye Contour. The moisturizer felt hydrating, yet light enough for warm wather. My skin instantly looked refreshed and soft. The Eye Contour was also excellent (Dell said it’s one of the most requested products). The soothing cream absorbed immediately, making the eye area look softer; and the fine reflective particles (mother of pearl) added brightness.

The Top Secrets Pore Refiner blew me away! In addition to the (stellar!) packaging, lovely feel and mattifying effect; it performed some kind of magic trick that made my pores run away and hide. I really couldn’t believe the difference. Dell applied the Foundation on top and the result was a flawless complexion. I’ve never seen my complexion look that polished. Ever. He highlighted here and there with the Touche Éclat and the total effect was near perfect skin. The look lasted through a long evening, and was still looking gorgeous when I got home that night.

Of course the major fun is in the color! Gorgeous colors and expert application equal fabulousness. And here’s one of the most useful hints I’ve ever gotten – Dell recommended contouring first using the pencil, then applying and blending shadow over the pencil contour. The result was really beautiful. The color was perfectly blended and shaped. And YSL shadows are pretty darn amazing. Velvety texture, saturated color, sophisticated shades and amazing staying power. The new Mascara was another awesome touch. It’s a deep, deep black, and I got a lush, black fringe.

The blush deserves a mention just for the packaging alone. The formula is excellent (a fine, blendable powder); but the brush container/applicator is both practical and adorable. I also loved the Lip Liner, the sheer Lipsticks (awesome for summer), and of course, the Gloss. Besides a glassy finish, Gloss Pur is one of the most comfortable, luscious glosses I’ve ever worn (and it has a yummy Mango fragrance).

In addition to a great look; I got a few fab tips from the expert himself:

1. Foundation: Use a blush brush to apply foundation. The brush glides across skin without tugging, and creates an airbrushed effect.
2. Bronzer: Use the side of a blush brush to apply bronzer, then use the tip to blend. Bronzer will go on more evenly over a larger surface (easier to do, and looks more natural).
3. Eyes (mentioned above): Use a pencil to draw on contours before applying shadow.
4. Lips: To “summer-ize” your beloved red lipsticks; use a sheer gloss to add a watery shine over the darker color.

YSL is always beautiful, luxurious and chic. And the amazing quality and attention to detail are very very French. I was thrilled that I got to try out so many things at once – and even more thrilled that I had a dinner to attend afterwards. I got tons of compliments; and I loved the way everything looked, felt and wore throughout the evening.

For more info (and to check out all the colors), visit the YSL website. You may also want to check out the Limited Editions and Online Exclusives pages. YSL offers free shipping on your first order. You can also find YSL at Sephora and fine department stores. (And Nordstrom.com is currently offering $5 shipping with any $50 beauty purchase (enter code: BEAUTY).

If you’re interested in having an amazing YSL experience of your own, here’s a list of Dell’s remaining scheduled appearances:

5/26-27- Nordstrom Seattle (WA)
5/28- Nordstrom San Francisco (CA)
5/29- Nordstrom Walnut Creek (CA)
6/3-5- Neiman Marcus Northpark (TX)
6/8- Neiman Marcus Northbrook (IL)
6/9- Saks Bala Cynwyd (PA)
6/10- Lord & Taylor NYC (NY)
6/12- Nordstrom South Coast Plaza (CA)
6/16- Bloomingdale's Aventura (FL)
6/17-18- Saks Boca Raton (FL)
6/19- Neiman Marcus Merrick (FL)
7/14-15- Saks NYC (NY)
7/16- Nordstrom Freehold (NJ)
7/17- Nordstrom Michigan Ave (IL)
7/23- Nordstrom Mall of America (MN)
7/24- Nordstrom Pentagon (DC)
7/29-30- Nordstrom Houston (TX)

Happy Monday everyone!
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I'm Back! Shock Value Limited Edition Collection from N.Y.C. (review)

The cold is officially on it's way out, and I am officially back to beauty business. I'm also in need of something bright and chipper to chase away the rest of the blahs, so today I'm wearing shadow, liner and gloss from N.Y.C. (New York Color) Cosmetics. These items are all from their "Shock Value" collection - a limited edition collection of bright spring colors for lips, eyes, cheeks, and nails.

City Duet Blendable Brights Eyeshadow

Blurb: Create eye-popping looks with this crease-resistant, pigment-rich shadow duo. Color coordinated for maximum impact, the shocking shade combination dramatically highlights and contours eyes. The shades can be worn alone or blended to create a multitude of looks with the included double-ended applicator. Limited-Edition Shades: Electric, Flash

Liquid Eyeliner

Blurb: Electrify eyes with shocking shades of this long-lasting, fast-drying color. The fragrance-free, hypoallergenic liner glides on easily and resists smudging. The narrow brush allows for precise application. Limited-Edition Shades: Electric Blue, Ultra Violet

Extreme Lip Glider Lip Gloss

Blurb: This high-gloss formula shocks lips with vivid, wet-shine color and a glassy finish. Vitamins A, C, and E nourish lips while a complex of extracts and oils provide conditioning benefits. The non-sticky, lightweight, moisturizing gloss provides radiant, vibrant color and lush melon flavor as it smoothes and softens, leaving lips looking ultra-saturated and super-shiny.Limited-Edition Shades: Fuchsia Shock, Wild Orchid, Red Hot

I love getting super hot trendy colors at great prices! I feel a lot freer to experiment when I know I'm not putting a serious dent in my beauty budget. If you're not 100% sure that you're the sort of person who wears electric blue liquid liner, this is the perfect way to find out.

By the way, It turns out I am the sort of person who wears electric blue liner. And I really liked N.Y.C.'s version a lot. It has a thin brush, goes on smoothly, and even stayed put during today's post-cold sneezing and eye-dabbing. I'm wearing it with the "Electric" shadow duo and the results are great. The shadows are actually a lot less shocking than I thought they would be. And both look fresh and spring-like.

The Glider glosses are also very nice. The color is sheer and has a glassy shine. They last, and feel very good on the lips. My favorite was the "Fuchsia Shock," but I also really liked "Wild Orchid."

The summer collection is on the website. While you're there, take a look at the Dare to Compare section and join Beautynet to get the latest info and offers. N.Y.C. is easy to find at Supermarkets, drugstores and places like Ulta, Target, and Walmart. You can also go to the Where To Buy section for more locations.

In addition to all of my opinions and musings; the folks at NYC were kind enough to send over a few beauty trends, tips and recommendations. Take a look…

Trends and Tips from N.Y.C. New York Color Make-Up Artist Mathew Nigara

Trend-Red Hot Coral Lips: Instead of using your normal red go for a more orange toned coral in a shiny gloss with and opaque lipstick underneath.

You can achieve this by using the N.Y.C. New York Color Retro Red stained with ring finger blotted and re-stained. Then apply the new Limited Edition Extreme Lip Glider in Red Hot.

Be sure to keep this modern by using little to no foundation - lots of illuminating highlighter, and a sparkly metallic shadow like the N.Y.C. New York Color Sparkle Eye Dust in Champagne or Opal

Trend-Monochromatic bronzer and/or cheek color used on multiple features on the face: Use the N.Y.C. New York Color Sun to Sun Bronzer which actually comes with a low light and a highlight to create dimension on the face. Paint the face as you would using your normal and comfortable shades using the deeper color to create shadow and depth and the lighter to add sparkle and bring your bones forward. A plush bronzer brush will help to execute this and don't be afraid to use your eye shadow brushes with the bronzer to apply it as eyeshadow. The look you are trying to achieve is simple but specifically executed.

A simpler way to achieve this is to of course use the N.Y.C. New York Color Blushable Creme stick and apply the color of your choice all over the face with your fingers. A white eye pencil on the inner rim of the eye will brighten and draw attention to the simplicity of this look.
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Green-Eyed (Beauty) Monster (quick review/redux)

My weekend was wonderful! I feel renewed!

And, oh my goodness today is hectic!

I had actually planned to spotlight these items last week (what with it being Earth Week and all); but I got sidetracked by other ideas and items. So while it's still Spring, still Earth Month, and I'm still feeling renewed; I thought I'd share a few of my favorite green eye-tems (uh oh, cracked myself up again).

Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado

To keep the delicate skin around your eyes soft and pretty. This is a wonderful, soothing hydrating eye treatment (and yes, it's green).

Almay Intense i-Color Mascara (in "Black Emerald")

This is more of a greenish-black. But I wanted to include something from the mascara category. Almay has a great formula; and for those of you who are sensitive, it's nice to have something other than plain old black.

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil (in "Mildew")

This is one of their new colors. It's a lovely forest green with gold flecks. My other UD green favorites are "Covet" (peacock green), and "Stash" (er…Oregano).

LASplash Glitter Eyeliner (in "Kryptonite")

I couldn't find a solo image, but it's the one in the middle. “Kryptonite” is a deep, forest green (almost black) with flecks of green glitter. They also make a gorgeous Lid Splash.

Stila Smudge Pot (in "Jade")

This olive green with glints of gold looks amazing as both a liner and a cream shadow. And the creamy, long-lasting formula is one of the best.

Dior 5 Color Palette (in "Mystic Jade")

I got one of these last year and used it all the time. There's a pale green, a deep olive, and an irridiscent brownish green complemented by a peach and a blue shadow. It's absolutely amazing for spring.

Stila Eye Shadow Pans (In "Cha Cha")

A delicate, pale, seafoam green. Looks great with my dark brown eyes; but I think this is another universally flattering color.

This idea isn't entirely off the wall and frivolous. Green is actually a very flattering and versatile shade, and it's perfect for spring.

Must...rush...Happy Monday!
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