Thursday, October 28, 2010

Do Good & Look Good








In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, makeup brand NYX is thanking those who volunteered, donated or ran a marathon for the cure. Email proof of your participation to receive 35% off an online purchase through Nov 1.
Simply proof of your participation to discount@nyxcosmetics.com to receive your coupon code. Plus, 10 percent of sales from your purchase will benefit breast cancer research.

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Paperself: Paper Eyelashes


Could this really be the new craze in eyewear??
Paperself has launched a creatively cutting edge line of false eyelashes featuring the Chinese art of paper-cutting. Each set of paper lashes represents a design from traditional Chinese symbols.

I've had some difficulty finding where to purchase, but here are a couple online shops: Harvey Nichols or Lost In Beauty

Vintage Nails by NARS


NARS dusts off some nail throwbacks for old times' sake. Vintage Nails is a collection of 10 discontinued nail polishes in an array of hues from tangerine to army green, all named after films-- Full Metal Jacket (gun metal grey), King Kong (brown with gold shimmer), Cha Cha Cha (semi-sheer tangerine with gold reflections), Midnight Express (Navy Blue), Mash (army green with shimmer), Blue Lagoon (iridescent powder blue), Hunger (hot orange red), Zizi (clear with peach and gold glitter) and Tallulah (rich grape).
These long-lost limited-edition lacquers are her for a limited time, so get yours today www.narscosmetics.com


Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Join Me for Sassy Hour @ Howl at the Moon



If you missed Sassy Peacock the Ultimate Ladie's Night Out, you don't want to miss...
Sassy Hour

"Sipping, Shopping, Singing & a Darn Good Time"
October 20, 2010
7 - 930pm
Howl at the Moon
Power Plant Live, Baltimore, MD

A suggested Donation of $5 will be donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central MD
RSVP HERE


NARS Pure Matte Lipstick


Recently, NARS launched a carefully edited collection of 12 lipsticks. Pure Matte Lipstick is the perfect combination of pigment, finish and comfort.
Whether you prefer a bold lip or a neutral one, Pure Matte Lipstick is a luxurious accessory quintessential to the matte lip trend of fall.



A super-rich, super-pampering, super-sexy lipstick in six sumptuous shades. Pure drama.

* Glides on effortlessly, without drag or resistance.
* Defying traditional long-wearing lipsticks, Pure Matte will not dry out lips
* Wild Mango Butter’s advanced moisturizing properties work to repair lips from dryness and scaling, leaving lips supple and soft.

Watch the Pure Matte: Infinite Reflections Film
Retails for $25. Purchase at NARS

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

DDF Revolve 400X


Lawd knows I heart a good beauty gadget so I am happy to share this one from DDF.
DDF introduces a breakthrough cleansing and exfoliating device, the Revolve 400x Micro-Polishing System.

DDFs Revolve 400x is unlike most at-home devices that simply vibrate or oscillate because it transmits more energy to the skin with up to 400 rotations per minute. The gentle, self-warming DDF Polishing Crystals and the soft Foam Exfoliator polish away surface imperfections to reveal radiant, healthy-looking skin.
The kit also includes a brush head to use with the device for daily deep cleansing and to help maintain results between treatments.
THE CLAIM:
•8X better exfoliation than a scrub alone
•Better absorption of skincare products
•After just one microdermabrasion treatment, see immediate improvement in pore appearance, skin tone and evenness, fine lines, skin clarity and brightness, and radiance
•After one week, also see a significant improvement in texture and smoothing of bumpy surface
This light-weight device offers two speed options to allow you to control the intensity of your treatment. Device is travel-friendly and suitable for use in the shower.

Available at Sephora and DDF Online ($95)

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Scent Genie


The Scent Genie is a refillable atomizer spray bottle that makes carrying your fragrance a breeze. The Scent Genie allows you to carry your favorite scent(s) with you wherever you go without the risk of the bottle breaking.
Made from 98% recyclable materials and crafted from Aircraft Grade Aluminum, the Scent Genie is weightless, durable, and small enough to fit in any pocket or clutch. Perfect for travel!

Retails for approximately $9.95. Available at www.scentgenie.com or you local drug store.

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Mineral Wear® Correcting Concealer



Suffer from dark under-eye circles? Try Mineral Wear® Talc-Free Mineral Correcting Concealer
This cream concealer trio provides medium coverage for any and all imperfections.
1. Soft Yellow- Color Corrects dark circles & other bluish imperfections.
2. Natural Light- Conceals imperfections
3. Pink Highlighter- Illuminates brow bones & temples

Light reflective pigments optically blur skin imperfections and diffuse the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Ultra convenient and portable vials snap together and pull apart for easy touch-ups on the go!

Not bad for $8.95, if you ask me! Grab yours today

Dress Up Band-Aids: Cynthia Rowley for Band-Aid Brand








I thought these were the cutest and if you are a tad bit clumsy like I am, they are right on time!

Designer, Cynthia Rowley pairs with Band-Aid Brand to give us limited edition "Dress Up Band-Aids". The "Dress Ups" come in whimsy designs like sequins, bows, jewels and chains fit for the girliest of girls.

Got $10? Get yours here
One dollar from the sale of each tin will go to Design Ignites Change, an organization that engages high school and college students in design and architecture projects that address social issues in their own communities.

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Tweeze with Style: Betsey Johnson meets Tweezerman



Betsey Johnson and Tweezerman join forces to transform the perfect tweezer into a must-have brow tool fit for only the funnest, flirtiest gals!
This limited-edition series of slanted tweezers come adorned in Betsey's signature skull, rosebud and baby prints. Get yours at Sephora today.

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Brow Essentials



I speak/write an awful lot about brows and cannot stress enough the value a well-groomed/shaped brow can add to your face; they frame and highlight the face. The face is the first thing people see; why distract them with an unruly/unkempt or misshaped brow?

Fear not! Here are some of my favorite tools to help keep your brows in order:

If you are trying to grow in sparse brows that have been waxed too much or tweezed to oblivion, try Ardell's Lash and Brow Growth Accelerator. Typically, I recommend an application twice a day (morning and evening) to help accelerate growth.

Admittedly, creating the perfect brow can sometimes be a task but with Ardell’s Brow Perfection Stencils it is much easier. They work well for those who need help shaping or recreating and those who don’t have much hair. Stencils come in Delicate, Elegant, Glamorous and Classic. Use the stencil that best matches your natural arch.
or
To add precision and definition choose from either the Lorac Creamy Brow Pencil or the Benefit Brow Zings applied with MAC 208 Angled Brow Brush. The Lorac Creamy Brow Pencil is perfect multi-tasking tool. Brush and tame unruly hairs with one end and fill-in, shape and define your brows with the specially formulated textured pencil. The Benefit Cosmetics Brow Zings allows you to custom blend the perfect shade to create a natural look. Available in light, medium and deep. You can use the angled brush included in the it. However, I prefer to apply the powder using the MAC 208 Angled Brow Brush. It is the perfect width so it allows a more natural application of the powder. (Note: the brush included in Brow Zings is a bit thicker than preferred. The thicker the brush, the thicker and less-refined the application will be)

For the girl-on-the-go, the Tarte Cosmetics Toolbox Brow Know-How Eyebrow Kit is the perfect all-in-one mini toolkit. Contains brow pencil, wax, powder, gel, tweezers, stencils, mini-angled brush and a mirror. Kits are available in three different shades (light, medium, dark) to match pencil and powder to your hair color.

Anastasia's Clear Brow Gel
is a necessity in my kit and the finishing touch. For quick grooming or after you have created the perfect brow, use the brow gel to keep hairs in place.

Lash (and Brow) Tint


The inspiration for this post stems from an inquiry I received on twitter the other day: "I didn't know people dyed their eyelashes as an alternative to wearing mascara @Nicole_Alexis please educate me on this one."

It’s true! Eyelash (and brow) tinting is becoming more and more popular these days. I have been tinting lashes and brows for 4 years and have seen it catch on more within the last year or so.

Most people who have their lashes tinted do it to achieve the look of wearing mascara without the fuss of daily application, washing it off at night and smudging. Typically, those with naturally blonde or light brown lashes get them dyed to add drama and the illusion of thickness. Brow tinting is a great option for someone with fine, pale or sparse; adding dimension and depth. Both are great for those with active lifestyles that involve playing sports, swimming or chasing kids.

Lash/brow tinting is temporary. The most common tinting applications involve the application of vegetable-based dyes in order to minimize irritation to the eye and surrounding area.

Typically, the tinting process takes about ten to fifteen minutes and lasts approximately 3-5 weeks. Pricing typically ranges from as little as $15 to as much as $40.

I have performed both lash and brow tinting safely for years. However, neither is approved at this time by the FDA for obvious reasons. Tinting may cause itching, stinging and in rare cases temporary blindness.

My suggestion is to do your research. Ensure the salon is reputable and is not just introducing tinting as a service because that usually means the esthetician is new to the process.

Morticia's Nails



Bebe Neuwirth, who plays Morticia in The Addams Family musical, has teamed up with Essie to design a limited-edition nail polish set inspired by her character. Morticia’s Nails Kit includes three sinister hues — Bone Chilling White, Blood Curdling Red, and Midnight Tango — and all proceeds benefit the actress's favorite charity, The Actor’s Fund.

Retails for $30.00 at the Addams Family Musical Store

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Jemma Kidd Pro Finish Moisture Tint SPF 20


Strolling through Targe' (Target), I was drawn to a new cosmetic display. It was Jemma Kidd's JK line exclusively for Target. It was one of those lines that made you want to try everything just because of the packaging!

So anyway, I was looking for a new tinted moisturizer to try out. I cannot say it enough...I loooove the packaging.

Moving on...JK Pro Finish Moisture Tint only comes in 3 shades (fair, mid and mid-dark). I wear 03 Mid-Dark, which was the darkest shade that seemed to be available. For those of you who know me, you know I am not dark at all so this is not the best product for darker skin tones.

It was a little heavier than any tinted moisturizer I've ever worn (my usual is Laura Mercier's) and provides a bit more coverage. It also contains some oil so it may not be the best choice for already oily or combination skin (like mine). I do, however love my final look, but I opt not to wear it on the hottest days. I am a huge advocate for using spf EVERYDAY, so I love the fact that is SPF 20. It does minimize your pores and provides a smooth application.

Would I spend another $28 bucks on it? Probably not. I believe it is a great product for someone with dry, fair skin. I will continue to use it as long as I have it in my makeup bag, but will most likely sue my $30 bucks elsewhere.

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Nina Garcia's Look Book


Nina Garcia, Marie Claire fashion director Project Runway judge Nina Garcia brings her fashion expertise to the pages of her self-titled look book: Nina Garcia's Look Book. This book serves as a girl's guide on to what to wear for every occasion; provides advice for women of all ages on making the most of your wardrobe 365 days a year.




Also check out Nina's other great guides to living fashionably:
The Little Black Book of Style
The One Hundred: A Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must Own
The Style Strategy: A Less-Is-More Approach to Staying Chic & Shopping Smart

Happy Reading!

Sunday, August 8, 2010

Lash Must-Haves from Tarte

One of my latest guilty pleasures is Gilte Groupe. On a few occasions, I have been able to take advantage of some great deals on clothes, shoes and even cosmetics. One of my great Gilte cosmetic finds was from Tarte. I purchased a Lash-Accessory Kit for 16 bucks , which included Rejuvalash, a natural declumping lash exhilarator & Bottoms Up lower lash mascara(retails for $16 each).

Rejuvelash

Have you ever gone to reapply mascara after a few hours and ended up breaking your lashes and/or creating a clumping mess? Rejuvelash is the remedy. It is better than a lash comb because it is a wet application.


Rejuvelash is a unique lash exhilarator that uses a blend of natural emulsifying agents in combination with our patented flexible bristle brush to gently eliminate clumps. Herbal hair restoratives are delivered with every application to improve the overall quality of your lashes. At the end of the day you can run a coat of rejuvelash over lashes to revive – you can even add a fresh coat of mascara without worrying about drying out or breaking your lashes!

Bottoms Up

Bottoms up is the perfect mascara to give you clump-free application to each and every lash. I also tried it out on my top lashes. Bottoms up does not provide a great deal of length, so I would recommend it solely for the bottom lashes (as designed) or if you are looking for that natural, I- have-makeup-on-but-I-don't. It works for me, because I am somewhat of a minimalist when it comes to my own look.


Bottoms Up is a flake-free formula with a precision tapered brush that allows you to target the tiniest of lashes and wide-set bristles that separate and evenly coat. The ergonomic component ensures easy application for perfectly defined bottom lashes.


I think both products are great buys, even at regular price.

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Tarte TEN!


In honor of tarte's bday, the brand released a limited edition shade of its best-selling cheek stain. TEN is a bright pink natural flush that works well with all skin tones and comes in a dark purple, gold-studded tube.

Powered by the t5 super fruit complex™ this nutrient rich natural cheek stain fights free radical damage while treating skin with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. From anniversaries, to birthdays, to the everyday, tarte always gives you something to celebrate about with high-performance natural™ formulas that keep your complexion rejuvenated and fresh, inside and out.

Head on over to tarte to order your today! Retails for $30

Friday, July 23, 2010

Calling All Sassy Ladies...This Event is for You!




Calling all Sassy Ladies! Grab your girlfriends and join me for Sassy Peacock, the Ultimate Ladies' Night Out!








Sassy Peacock is a celebration of all things fab. This girly and glamorous evening acknowledges the DMV's top luxury products and brands, while raising funds for Baltimore Big Brothers Big Sisters.
Enjoy an evening of cocktails, pampering, shopping ad self-awareness.

When: August 7, 2010 from 6 - 11pm

Where: Doubletree Baltimore



This fabulous event is being brought to you by KelEvents, LLC

Hope to see you there!

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Feeling Haute or Feeling Naughty?


Are you feeling Haute or feeling Naughty? MAC has designed the perfect tool to address either mood-- a two-in-one mascara!

No need to carry two tubes of mascara in your makeup kit "just in case". This is an innovative way to customize your lashes without adding bulk to your makeup bag.
Select and shimmy brush from root to tip for desired effect - naturally defined, or full-on dramatic! Easy to use dual-wiper system allows the lightweight formula to go on either way. One wiper refines the application for a clean sweep, while the other loads the lashes for a greater impact.
State-of-the-art conditioning and hydrating formula prevents parching and flake-outs.

Retails for $18 at MAC

Saturday, July 17, 2010

Just in Time for Summer: Gorilla Warfare


Just in time for the summer heat, DERMAdoctor introduces GORILLA Warfare, a hair minimizing antiperspirant deodorant (the perfect funk prevention combination, IMO).

Make peace, not hair. Feeling like Tarzan instead of Jane? No need to go ape over jungle-like hair growth and rain forest-level wetness. Stop monkeying around with the ordinary and make peace with two decidedly indelicate concerns with a solution uniquely camouflaged as a daily antiperspirant.

Gorilla Warfare is formulated withOUT the use of synthetic dyes or fragrances. DERMAdoctor also donates a portion of the proceeds to the Jane Goodall Institute, a charity dedicated to wildlife research, education and conservation.

Get it for $29 at Dermadoctor or Sephora

Sunday, June 27, 2010

A Little Sunblock Never Hurt Anyone


A little sunblock never hurt anyone. In fact, the exact opposite is true.
It's officially summer! And with summer comes the propensity to tan and participate in more outdoor activities, and thus, increased exposure to the sun.

I am one who loves a good tan, but I am also very aware of the harmful effects sun exposure can have on your skin...not just during summer months, but year-round. So, i decided to share with you the top 5 things I think you should know about the affects of the sun on the skin and how you can protect yourself.

#1 You can use a daily sunscreen, in moisturizer form to limit sun exposure that can lead to burning, skin cancer, premature aging and wrinkling, hyperpigmentation, etc. Moisturizers containing sunblock come in various formulas from oil-free to light-weight lotions depending on your skin type. Many foundations, lipsticks, hand lotions and powders contain SPF as well.

#2 SPF refers to the Sun Protection Factor in sunscreens. A higher SPF indicates greater protection from the harmful rays of the sun. If you use a sunscreen with an SPF 15, you can be in the sun 15 times longer that you can without sunscreen before burning. The SPF number is also an indicator of how often you should reapply. For example, an SPF of 30 should be reapplied every 30 minutes.

#3 Contrary to popular belief brown girls/guys need sunblock too. As mentioned in a previous post, darker skin contains more melanin, a natural SPF making the chances of burning are less likely, but still possible. It also means that the signs of skin cancer are harder to detect (irregularities in moles, abnormal growths on skin, etc.).

#4 There is a difference between sunblock and sunscreen. Sunscreen contains chemicals that absorb UV rays before they damage the skin. Sunblock contains particles that act as a physical wall against UV rays. Sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes prior to sun exposure and sunblock begins working immediately. Experiment and see what works best for your skin.

#5 Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. More than 3.5 million cases in two million people are diagnosed annually. Melanoma is now the most common cancer in women age 25 to 29. About 90 percent of non-melanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Up to 90 percent of the visible changes commonly attributed to aging are caused by the sun.
For more facts on skin cancer visit The Skin Cancer Foundation

Thursday, June 17, 2010

The Art of a Woman


There's still time to get your tickets!
Successful Women in Media, Art, Publishing, Fashion and Entertainment Celebrate “The Art of a Woman”| This Saturday at District Lounge


(Washington, DC) – The Art of a Woman on Saturday, June 19 is gearing up to be an extraordinary celebration of fashion, art and creative, successful women. Author Helena Andrews of the new memoir “Bitch is the New Black,” will join event host and rising supermodel Marisa Elise; R & B songstress Paula Campbell; Mrs. Maryland Globe 2010 Tiffany Parker and DJ Heat from WPGC 95.5 FM to celebrate “The Art of a Woman.” This is a fashion, art and shopping event presented by Think Brown INK and HoneyComb Set LLC., on June 19 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at District Restaurant and Lounge, located at 2473 18th Street NW, Washington, DC.

Attendees will experience new fashion and art, mingle with empowering women and learn about media, starting an art collection, publishing and beautifying one’s home. Ticket price is $15 in advance at http://theartofawoman.eventbrite.com and $20 at the door.

The Fashion
The fashion show will feature gorgeous new swimwear by Atlanta-based Lara Epps, clothing and accessories by Maryland vintage boutique DMVntage and culminate with the couture collection by New York-based designer Dominique Auxilly. Accessories and urban wear by Black Collection, Traci-Lynn Fashion Jewelry, G-Style Gems, and more will spice up the fashion show.

The Art
The Art of a Woman will include a charity silent art auction with work by Glen “Foo” Brown to benefit The Warford Foundation, which supports military widows and single mothers. Artwork by James Terrell and The Abstract Princess will compliment the art exhibit.

The Speakers
Author Helena Andrews, of the highly acclaimed memoir “Bitch is the New Black” will read an excerpt from her new book. Additional speakers include journalist and host of “At Home with Victoria,” Victoria Gaither; Sharon Burton, CEO of the online art gallery Authentic Contemporary Art, and Sherry B. Ways, Principal Design Specialist at Design Scheme Interiors, LLC.


Media sponsor for The Art of a Woman is W.O.W. Radio, which will broadcast live from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at http://www.wowuradio.net/
Ticket price is $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Please purchase your tickets here

Sunday, June 6, 2010

Post-Waxing Cure


While reading some excerpts from Susie Galvez's (esthetician, makeup artist, cosmetic product formulator, and author of eight books on beauty and lifestyle) book Ooh la la! Perfect Face, I came across this natural, at-home recipe for soothing your skin after being waxed.



Its a pretty simple recipe and I'm sure many of you will thank me for this.


What you will need:
3 cups of chamomile tea
cotton guaze
cotton ball
water (as required)
milk (as required)

1) Make chamomile tea following the instructions on the packet
2) Allow it to cool completely
3) Pour mixture into ice cube tray and freeze
4) Once frozen, wrap in a cotton guaze
5) Gently rub the frozen cube over waxed area for about 5 minutes
6) Dip cotton ball in plain milk and rub over area for 5 minutes
7) Enjoy

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Julep's City Beauty


















In honor of the highly anticipated anticipated Sex and the City 2 movie, Julep launches a line of nail fabulous polishes named after the fab four. Choose from Carrie (pale pink), Samantha (fuschia), Miranda (seafoam blue-green), and Charlotte (lavender).

Smashbox Friends & Family Discount



As my friends and family (smile), you can take advantage of the Smashbox Friends and Family discount. Simply enter code FF2010 at checkout to receive a whopping 20% of your entire purchase at www.smashbox.com Discount valid through May 28th.

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

NEW: NARS Multiple Tints


Need a vacation? Well, take a trip with NARS for just $38!

Just in time for summer, NARS brings you Multiple Tint in 3 vibrant shades-- BEVERLY HILLS (red), CADAQUES (fuschia), TURKS & CAICOS (orange). Multiple Tints provide a sheer pop of color for the cheeks OR lips.
Feeling bold? Layer with other NARS face and cheek products.

Exclusive to www.narscosmetics.com

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Get Naked this Summer


Get naked this summer with Smashbox's Summer 2010 line. This line delivers that barely-there natural glow. If you know me, you know I'm already sold! I'm a HUGE fan of the natural look.

This line is perfect for the not-so-made-up look, exposing your natural beauty with a collection of illuminating bronzers, creamy cheek colors and sheer glosses with a hint of color.
Get it here www.smashbox.com

Love & Toast
















It is just as important to do good, as it is to look good. With every Love + Toast purchase, you're doing both.
(a portion of each purchase goes to Regional Affiliates of Girls, Inc.)


Love + Toast is a line of eco-friendly, natural luxurious body products ~ Organic hand creams, natural beauty products and sexy perfumes...The products are formulated with natural and organic ingredients and the packaging is recyclable and printed with vegetable ink.
Love + Toast is such an adorable, girlie line :)




L + T products have made appearances in In Style, Teen Vogue and People as must-have ATM-friendly buys under $15.


And I discovered them just in time for Mother's Day! Give mom the gift of beauty without breaking your pockets. L + T products are reasonably-priced and I've got an added bonus. Sign up for Daily Candy and get 30% off by using code: DC30%OFF at checkout.

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

The HOT SPOT


I was watching television the other day and saw a commercial for this neat little contraption called the HOT SPOT.

The Zeno Hot Spot is an at-home/travel-size treatment that claims to clear blemishes with heat. The Hot Spot
provides visible blemish clearing within just one hour and eliminates or significantly reduces 90% of blemishes within 24 hours.
Each treatment takes only 2.5 minutes.
The treatment tip delivers an optimum level of heat to destroy the bacteria that causes acne and puts a stop to your pimple at its source.
Check out the clinical trials if you still aren't convinced.
The Hot Spot retails for about 40 bucks and can be found at CVS, Target, Rite Aid and Walmart...

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

It's a Photoshoot...with Ajani & Bentley

Ajani on Camera, Bentley on Stage, Bianca on wardrobe and Yours Truly on Makeup makes for one cool production!


I recently had the opportunity to work with one of DC's dopest photographers, Ajani Truth, hautest models, Bentley and stylist, Bianca Cerise.

This shoot went well into the wee hours of the morning...And when I say wee, I mean I didn't get home until nearly 4am. But I am in no way complaining because I love what I do and I am most definitely pleased with the results! Although we were all dead tired, we had lots of fun doing what we do. They are a great team to work with.



A Total Knockout


Victoriana meets art deco meets ultimate rock chic...KO (READ: Knock Out) nail polish is the creation of makeup artist Mike Potter.


Available in 11 colors and a top coat (Flatte Top)-- Flatte Black, Powder, Liberty, Calamine, Karen, OX, Pool, Plaster, Concrete, KOKO and Match provides a long-lasting matte finish that can also be buffed to a shine.

Knockout Polish retails for $19 at koknockout.com
and other retailers

Sunday, April 4, 2010

Hold Me, the Case that holds it ALL!

Ever start packing to head out of town, you get to your cosmetics and such and end up with umpteen different cases, makeup bags and ziplocks to store everything you need to stay fab on your trip?? If so, you are not alone.

Lucky for us some brilliant mind with this same problem designed the ultimate traveling beauty case to combat this beauty woe. And even luckier for me, I stumbled across this great find just a couple weeks before I head to JA.

Hold Me...It's your vanity drawer, the clutter on your bathroom counter, that bulky travel organizer, and you know, those mismatched little zippered cases in your purse. All rolled (literally) into one super neat bag!!

This bag is practical and stylish, made with a Knew Suede outer and interior highlights from sleek, washable cotton in your choice of 3 designs: Miss Suki, Vanity Dames or Les Fleurs. There's also a an all black, all suede version as well.

The tie closure accommodates varying degrees of depth, depending upon the number and shapes of your enclosed items. The center section, "heart", of the bag can hold various palettes that can easily be used while they are open. The center section has a separate liner in the bottom, easily removable for cleaning, and for use outside the bag if needed. The brush/tool section has fifteen compartments; some will hold single items and some, multiple items.


Hold Me retails for $100. If you've got a few extra bucks to burn, I definitely think this case is a wise investment. *ordering my Hold Me NOW*

Thursday, April 1, 2010

Shu Uemura Closes its Doors


When I heard the news, I nearly shed a tear. On Monday, L'Oreal announced it would no longer sell the Shu Uemura brand in the US.
I heart Shu Uemura products and simply adore the iconic lash curler so when I heard that L'Oreal would be closing its doors in the US, I panicked thinking I wouldn't be able to find Shu Uemura products in Nordstrom or Neiman's anymore.


Silly me...While the company will discontinue sales in the US, you can still purchase dramatic lashes, lash curlers, cleansing oils and other cosmetics online. WWD reports that 80% of the company's sales are made in Asia, this announcement comes as no surprise.

Shu Uemura marked his name as one of the great artists in the makeup industry back in the 1950's--trust, he's not done yet.

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

OCC Lip Tar Spring Collection


Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics is back with their new Lip Tar Colors for the spring! I did a couple posts last fall and nothing has changed...I simply love them!

This season's collection, designed by New York based celebrity Makeup Artist Katie Pellegrino...From ultra muted plum/beige to bubble-gum violet Vapid or magenta Hoochie and fuschia-rose Demure, these shades are definitely something to OBSESS over.

Available now at OCCMAKEUP.COM!

Sunday, March 14, 2010

Your Beauty Questions Answered (BQOTD): Day Creams vs. Night Creams


Today's beauty question came from a new client who came for a facial the other day. Wanna hear it? Here it goes..


Q: What is the difference between day and night creams and is it necessary to use both?

A: Day creams are generally lighter and more suitable under makeup. Most of the day creams sold today include sunscreen. Obviously, sunscreen is not necessary in a night cream. Whether you need to use a night cream is determined by your skin type. Dry or mature skin may benefit from an intensive moisturizing cream at night.

Until next time...



Saturday, March 13, 2010

Brows to Die For

If you know me, you know how I feel about brows (and you've probably heard me say this a million times)...They are, dare I say, the most important feature on the face. They shape your face and can make or completely break your look.
Personally, I'm a fan of a fuller, well-groomed brow. Overall, they tend to look more natural.
Damone Roberts, "The Brow King" says "As a whole, the thicker the brow, the softer and prettier a woman can look. The thinner you go, the more severe and sinister you look. Thin eyebrows can make you look mean".

That brings me to the point of this post: Whether you went a little buck with your tweezers, you were butchered at the salon,
you don't have an understanding of what works well for you or maybe you were born with naturally thin brows, there are products out here to help.
While there are plenty of products that boast of facilitating or accelerating hair growth, you still need to practice patience!! Your brows will not grow back overnight so, hang in there.

Here are a few of the leading brow growth products on the market:

Ardell Brow and Lash growth Accelerator - $5+

The claim: works to repair weak eye lashes and restore thickness to thinning and over-tweezed or waxed eyebrows. The concentrated serum uses multi-proteins to increase growth as well as additional conditioners that work to soften dry, brittle eyelashes so that they are able to grow fuller, longer and thicker.



Damone Roberts' Brow Gain - $35
The claim: Brow Gain helps to create healthier looking, fuller eyebrows by stimulating the surrounding hair follicles. Generally, results will be seen about 6 to 8 weeks after use begins. Individual results may vary. Your face deserves the perfect frame. With The Eyebrow King’s Signature Brow Gain as the catalyst, that goal is within reach.


Peter Thomas Roth's Brows to Die For - $85


The claim: Thanks to a patent-pending ingredient (called prostaglandin analogue complex), brows look thicker and fuller with regular use. It is also chockfull of vitamins (B5, A, C, E) and aloe vera, which are also said to nourish hair in the area. With consistent, daily use, brows look more robust and ready for a little trim after a month.

If you have tried these or other brow growth products, feel free to post a comment about your experience. We'd love to hear about it!