Bella NYC's Dine With Derek: Rock Your Hair, too!

 

 

Last night's party with Derek Warburton and Bella NYC was absolutely fabulous and the team behind #DinewithDerek ever so supportive of both Derek and all of his guests. Derek is the Style Director at BELLA New York City Magazine (@bellanycmag) and the vibe was all about new looks/colors for Spring. I was welcomed with open arms and a wonderful signature drink called the Bellatini!

One of the sponsors in the gift bag was none other than Rock Your Hair (@rock_your_hair ) and I had tried the Spray It Hard before and it had worked wonderfully for an event I had in very humid weather a few months ago. Yes, the weather that is referred to as "before the Polar Vortex."

Rock Your Hair offers a wide variety of hair products and the ones mentioned below reminded me of Valentine's Day as you might just need these products to keep your hair rocking out through the evening...and then some?!

Take a look:

3 Day Blow Out - $20.00

This formula extends the life and volume of your blowout, while providing your hair with protection against styling tools and other outside elements. It seals in color, adds smoothness, and keeps your style lasting for days.


Moringa Dry Oil Mist - $18.00

This lightweight mist includes an oil native to Africa, which is Michael's home country. It can be used on all hair types to smooth, nourish, de-frizz and create shine without compromising your volume.


Size Matters Big Volume Root Lift - $20.00

Apply this product to towel dry hair and blow dry for added shine and boosted volume. This humidity resistant, color safe formula protects hair from heated tools and other damaging effects brought on by styling.


Spray It Hard Big Volume Hairspray - $20.00

This fast drying formula significantly boosts and locks in volume while keeping humidity out. Apply this while styling for lasting hold and thicker, fuller hair.

 

 

The ever so handsome and HAUTE Derek Warburton himself.

Estée Lauder & Lilly Pulitzer Gift With Purchase

Although we lost the incredibly talented designer this past year, Estée Lauder and Lily Pulitzer collaborated for the second year to bring you this exclusive cosmetic bag as their Limited Edition Spring 2014 gift with purchase. Beginning February 3, 2014 this bag could be yours!

Each retailer-exclusive Lilly Pulitzer print cosmetic bag comes with a selection of Estée Lauder deluxe samples with any purchase of  $45 or more available EXCLUSIVELY at www.EsteeLauder.com.
 

 

This Limited Edition Spring 2014 cosmetic bag will include deluxe samples of the following: Pure Color Lipstick, Sumptuous Bold Volume Lifting Mascara, Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex, a choice of Advanced Time Zone Age-Reversing Line/Wrinkle Creme, Advanced Night Repair Eye Synchronized Recovery Complex or Resilience Lift Firming/Sculpting Eye Cream and lastly, your choice of Advanced Time Zone Age-Reversing Line/Wrinkle Creme SPF 15, DayWear Advanced Multi-Protection Anti-Oxidant Creme SPF 15 or Resilience Lift Firming/Sculpting Face and Neck Creme SPF 15. 

The bag's print was inspired by the Palm Beach lifestyle- a beach bronze, toes in the sand and a fruity drink in- hand. Living through this NYC Polar Vortex, I can honestly say I am looking forward to SPRING! 

Bring it on...and get me that bag! Love the print and what's inside!

Mascara: From Department Store to Drugstore Brands- let's find the one that's right for you!

On a daily basis, I like many others, wear mascara. Sometimes, I wear only mascara, a bit of blush and a rich lippy. Finding one that suits your personal style can be difficult. Some days you may want to feel vampy, while others you may want to look lighter and less intense. No matter the look, I've got you covered....at least your lashes, that is.

 

From Department Store brands to Drugstore brands, there are hundreds to choose from making it sometimes, overwhelming. I welcome you to add you favorites in the comment section below as I could not list all that I have reviewed and I am missing some greats, I can feel it as I write. I know FLOWER makes a wonderful one Zoom In Ultimate Mascara ($ 7.98) and you can see Drew Barrymore's entire line by visiting www.flowerbeauty.com as it's available at Walmart and online at www.walmart.com and I have used it in the past. It allows you three dials (similar in concept to Eddie Funkhouser's one shown above that has 4 dials- Quattro Variable Lash Mascara- $ 12.99) that moves the applicator wand from an every day look to more intense-with a mere twist. These kinds of mascaras allow you to be the judge of your own look right on the spot. I often use Eddie's and crank it up to level 4 for nighttime va-va-va voom lashes (available at NYC Rite Aid on Hudson Street and also online at www.eddiefunkhouser.com) .

Major fans of Diorshow ($ 25) are out there I know and I like it too. Sometimes it dries out quickly so be sure to close it tightly after each use. My Department store go to's are from Dior, Lancôme Hypnose Drama ($ 27.50), Hypnose Star ( $ 28.50), Definicils ($ 27.50), Estee Lauder, Chanel, Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill ($ 30), Benefit Cosmetics They're Real ($23) and Too Faced. I also have worn MAC in the past yet seem to go back to my Estee lauder staple Sumptuous Infinite ($ 26)  or Le Volume De Chanel ($ 30). Believe me, Lancôme mascaras are also a love of mine yet I only have two sets of lashes to love. I have also fallen for Better Than Sex Mascara ($ 23) from Too Faced for a dramatic, eye opening look as well as Beauty Addicts Show Off mascara. Tarte's (Lights, Camera, Flashes Statement Mascara ($ 23) shown below) is also amazing for volume, length and intensity. Urban Decay's Big Fatty ($ 20) must be mentioned as well as I used today for length, volume and drama.

While perusing through my local Drugstores, I generally pick up L'Oreal Voluminous Carbon Black Building Mascara ($ 7.99), Voluminous Million Lashes ($ 8.99) and have also liked all the ones pictured above, especially the Revlon Lash Potion ($ 7.99) as it also helps to grow your lashes. I personally feel that L'Oreal does not let me down. I know so many new ones from Maybelline have hit the market, too.

It's also about the application process as so many of us forget to apply from the root to tip and wiggle our way up! I also switch the wand around for the opposing eye. Do you remember to do that or are you in the habit of using the wand only one way for both eyes?!

If I want a more dramatic look, sometimes I apply up to four coats at night. In the day one usually does the trick- as long as I am using one of my staples. How many times have you had your lashes not look any thicker or stick together? These mascaras I do hope will not do this for you. I cannot guarantee this as everyone's lashes are different, I can only tell you from experience.

Sephora and www.Sephora.com is my go to Beauty destination and I love how they have so many options for us beauty addicts out there. I know Ulta, www.ulta.com, Macy's, www.macys.com, Barney's NY, www.barneysny.com and other department stores allow you freedom to sample products when asked. I have often left Sephora with samples and then returned to purchase them after I fully saw they wee right for me.

Don't be afraid to ask for samples, fellow beauty addicts. It's a way for us to see if the products work for us! Sampling is a must in my beauty bible!

So, do tell me...which mascaras are your favorites? I missed addressing wonderful options from Mally, Laura Mercier, Kevyn Aucoin Beauty, Troy Surratt.....oh my!

2014 PREVIEW: Valentine's Day Gift Ideas

 

I don't have a Valentine as I am raising two beautiful children on my own and have yet to fit another person into my more-than-busy schedule, yet if I did...I would want all of the products listed below! 

 

This article will certainly give you options for what to buy that certain someone in your life- and it could be YOU, too! YOU deserve to gift yourself as well as others. Don't think I don't buy myself something that makes me feel good on certain "Holidays" such as Valentine's Day as I like the pick-me-up feeling myself for certain! I am my own Valentine!

 

The below products cover a wide variety from teeth whiteners to candles- offering many options which one would need to not only prep before the day itself yet also be helpful in setting the mood the day/night of. Have fun with it lovelies and read on...


SKINCARE ENHANCERS: 

H2O Plus Sea Results Anti-Aging Body Moisture Whip

Feeling sexy, youthful and carefree this Valentine’s Day can be easy with the Sea Results Anti-Aging Body Moisture Whip. Infused with effervescent notes including pink grapefruit, jasmine and aquatic musk, this air-whipped and soufflé-like lotion will leave a sweet and sensual scent on the skin. Formulated with Velvet Seaweed and Tahitian Pearl plus an Anti-Aging Marine Blend Oil, this whip provides deep hydration and anti-aging benefits while leaving the skin with a bright and youthful glow. 

Price: $28, Available at H2O Plus stores and www.H2OPlus.com


Urban Decay NAKED Illuminated

Let’s be real, ladies – all the spells, potions and wishes-upon-stars in the world aren’t going to do you a smidge of good this Valentine’s Day. Want to REALLY get his attention and tempt him into your boudoir? Before you get naked, get NAKED with the newest addition to the hit franchise, NAKED Illuminated. It’s an exquisite baked illuminating powder, perfect for use on the face or the body. The magically radiant, never metallic powder is flattering on all skin tones and leaves a light dusting of iridescent shimmer for a luminous look.

Price: $29, Available at ULTA, www.ULTA.com and www.UrbanDecay.com


Shaveworks Pearl Soufflé Shave Cream

Make sure your legs are extra touchable this Valentine’s Day with the Pearl Soufflé Shave Cream from the shaving authorities at Shaveworks. Luxuriate in the lusciously rich shave cream with Capislow to minimize hair growth, Phytic/Glycolic Acid to exfoliate and reduce ingrown hairs, especially in the bikini area, and Mediacalm Complex for superb moisturizing and calming benefits. Scented with a light blend of Lavender, Ginger and Vanilla, Pearl Soufflé leaves skin moisturized, nourished, silky and delicately scented.

Price: $22, Available at Sephora, www.Sephora.com and www.Anthony.com


JĀSÖN® Energizing Vanilla Hand & Body Lotion

Vanilla is long believed to be a natural aphrodisiac. As far back as the 1700s, physicians recommended it to male patients to ensure potency. Luckily, there’s an easier way to turn your man on this Valentine’s Day than rubbing pastries all over your body. This botanically rich lotion with a subtle yet sweet vanilla smell delivers deep, long-lasting hydration, without leaving a greasy residue. Free of Parabens, Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfate, Petrolatum, Artificial Colors, and Phthalates.

Price: $9.49, Available at natural food stores, Whole Foods Market and www.Jason-PersonalCare.com


BE PREPARED TO PUCKER UP WITH THESE ESSENTIALS: 

By Terry Baume de Rose 10 Year Anniversary Edition

In honor of their 10th anniversary, Terry has designed a new limited edition jar of the classic, Baume de Rose. Adorned with silver hearts, this ultra-rich, addictive balm has become a cult classic and must-have favorite of Hollywood stars. In an instant, lips are smoothed, plumped and protected. With its creamy, rose-scented texture, it delivers a shiny yet non-sticky, polished finish.

Price: $59, Available at www.Barneysny.com

L’Oréal Paris Extraordinaire by Colour Riche Liquid Lipcolour

Before heading out to celebrate Valentine's Day with your main man, swipe on a new innovative lip product infused with precious oils that create the perfect pout. The unique formula offers the best benefits of your favorite lip products – a smooth surface, rich color and magnified shine. Available in 16 shades (including classic reds and vibrant pinks), its doe-foot shaped applicator deposits the perfect amount of formula to provide a smooth surface, rich color and high shine for the perfect lip.

Price: $9.99, Available at www.LorealParisUSA.com at mass, food and drug retailers nationwide



FLOWER Lip Suede Velvet Lip Chubby

From FLOWER – the full cosmetics range co-founded by Drew Barrymore and available exclusively at Walmart. With weightless lip colors in a satin-matte finish, lips are instantly smoothed with lush ingredients like Papaya and Orchid Hydrating Complex. Rich and highly pigmented, the intense color payoff results in a velvet finish every time. What’s more, each Lip Chubby is self-sharpening so you will never be left with a dull tip. Shades: Life’s a Peach, Berry-more, Mauve Over, Coral Floral, Red-dy to Bloom

Price: $7.98, Available at Walmart and www.Walmart.com


SOFTEN & BRIGHTEN UP YOUR SKIN IN ADVANCE BY USING THE FOLLOWING:

SkinCeuticals Antioxidant Lip Repair

This Valentine’s Day, get lips they can’t resist. This powerful treatment helps prevent premature signs of aging, while restoring moisture and smoothing the surface of the lips, leaving them perfectly kissable and completely irresistible. Botanical emollients heal while hyaluronic acid hydrates, for smooth, full, youthful lips.

Price: $38, Available at www.sSkinCeuticals.com 


bliss fabulips ‘pout’-o-matic

Bliss gives some much needed TLC to your kisser with this pro-powered, lip-perfecting device. The ‘pout’-o-matic uses gentle rotation and a custom-designed head with massaging nubs to softly yet effectively stimulate and exfoliate your lips, buffing away flakiness and dryness. Used with our nourishing fabulips sugar lip scrub, ‘pout’-o-matic will instantly revitalize, rejuvenate and smooth.

• The only spa-powered lip smoothing system

• The first oscillating polishing tool that targets the mouth

• Includes a replaceable head and full size fabulips sugar lip scrub

Price: $52, Available at bliss spas and www.blissworld.com


GO SMiLE 6 Day Double Action Whitening System

Make sure your teeth are bright and white this Valentine’s Day with the GO SMiLE 6 Day Double Action Whitening System, which has been proven to whiten teeth an average of 3 shades in only 3 days.

Fast, easy, safe and effective treatment that delivers superior whitening with virtually no sensitivity

Suitable for those with long-term staining habits such as smoking or drinking coffee

To use, just squeeze the ampoule at the two dots marked on the sleeve to break the 2 inner capsules and combine the liquid formulas. Next, apply the mixture to your teeth with the built-in applicator and avoid eating and drinking for at least 20 minutes

Price: $89, (6 days/12 count), Available at www.gosmile.com


GET READY TO SET THE MOOD:

Emily & Tony Aromatherapy Massage Oil Candles

Ignite the flames in more ways than one. These unique Aromatherapy Massage Oil Candles will fill your home with evocative aromas and create the ultimate sensory experience to set the mood for a romantic Valentine’s Day. When hot, the candle wax doubles as a luxurious body moisturizer with a nourishing soy and oil formula that cools quickly for instant comfort and pleasure. Each candle burns for up to 50 hours and is ideal for both men and women. Available in the following three scents:

Créme de Vanille: A sweet and sophisticated vanilla scent that evokes comfort and warmth
Coco: Opens with top notes of coconut, cedar middle notes and a sweet vanilla base
Fougere: A sophisticated and musky fragrance opens with top notes of licorice and cardamom, followed by sexy middle notes of cedar, vetiver, patchouli, amber, and nutmeg. Finished with base notes of vanilla, bourbon and licorice

Price: $38, Available online at www.EmilyandTony.com



GIFT OPTIONS FOR YOUR OTHER HALF:

Ralph Lauren Fragrances Polo Red Valentine’s Day Set

Inspired by Ralph Lauren’s car collection, Polo Red is the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for the man in your life with drive and ambition. With powerful notes of red saffron, red grapefruit and red cedar wood, this spicy, woody fragrance captures speed, adrenaline and – most importantly – seduction. The ultimate in design and distinction, the fiery red, high-gloss bottle mimics the sleek curves of an automobile. The kit includes a 125 ml EDT, a 1.36 oz EDT and a 3.4 fl oz After Shave Balm.

Price: $86 (a $162 value), Available in February at www.RalphLauren.com and select retailers


Elemis Top-to-Toe Skincare Collection

A perfect gift from your other half or even great as a little something for you, this limited edition, five-piece collection comes in a luxury vanity bag. It contains best-selling products to cover each step of your skincare regimen, including full-sized Skin Nourishing Shower Cream, Papaya Enzyme Peel, Pro-Collagen Marine Cream, and Pro-Radiance Cream Cleanser, plus a 35ml Frangipani Monoi Body Oil. Skin is left clean, hydrated and glowing.

Price: $104 (a $190 value), Available at  www.TimetoSpa.com


Ralph Lauren Romance Valentine’s Day Gift

Inspired by the woman who believes in true love, warmth and togetherness, Romance captures the timeless essence of falling in love. This Valentine’s Day, receive either a complimentary box of Dylan’s Candy Bar candy or a dozen roses with the purchase of a 3.4oz or larger Romance eau de parfum purchase. Additionally, from Jan 26th to Feb 11th, customers can reserve a bouquet and pick it up from Feb 11th to the 14th.

Price: $88 (3.4oz), $98 (125ml), Available in-store only at select retailers nationwide*

*Macys, Belk, Dillard’s, Lord & Taylor, Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, Bon Ton, Sephora

*Candy available at all stores; flowers available at select stores


Bond No. 9 Perfumista Avenue

This rose-laden scent named after a fantasy street is the ideal fragrance to spritz for a cozy evening at home or a night out with a dapper gentleman. A delicate and fresh rose note is immediately perceived as a starting point accompanied by lush and succulent plum. Just like the scent, the bottle conveys romance and love with its strong, vivid magenta color and shimmering metallic cast.

Price: $190 (50mL); Available at Bond No. 9’s five New York stores, Saks Fifth Avenue, select Nordstrom stores and www.BondNo9.com


AHAVA Mineral Botanic Duo Set

Treat yourself or someone you love to the pampering benefits of Dead Sea minerals and organic plant extracts. AHAVA’s skin-nourishing Mineral Botanic Velvet Cream Body Wash (500 ml) and Body Lotion (400 ml) in Hibiscus & Fig delivers essential moisture to the skin leaving it calm, clean and refreshed – and subtly fragrant.

Price: $26, Available at www.AHAVAUS.com  in February

Have fun, lovelies and be prepared to have a day/night filled with romance and joy!

Red Carpet Manicure: The Dazzling Gems Collection

Oh my! Red Carpet Manicure launches Six New Gel Polishes infused with Precious Gems. Sounds dazzling, doesn't it?! No wonder it is called The "Dazzling Gems" Collection... 

Just in time for all of the awards shows, and available for the first time at retail, the first at home LED gel manicure system will launch polishes produced from real Ruby, Amethyst, Opal, Sapphire, Emerald and Aquamarine stones. "Dazzling Gems" will roll out at ULTA Beauty stores nationwide and will also be sold separately for $ 11.99 each. These gemstones have been certified by the Gemology Appraisal Laboratory and it is the first time Red Carpet has ever made a signature and prestigious gem-infused polish line for retail consumers. Lucky us!

Lady in Red- Ruby Polish

Emmy-rald Winner- Emerald Polish

Trendsetter- Aquamarine Polish

Hollywood Icon- Sapphire Polish

Fashionista- Amethyst Polish

Stealing the Spotlight- Opal Polish

These shades follow the same application process as all other Red Carpet Manicure LED nail gel polishes. 

"We want consumers to have the same access as A-List stars to our specialty nail shades," said Barry Shield, Managing Partner of Red Carpet Manicure. " As nail art becomes more popular, we are thrilled to offer the best on- trend and affordable gel nail color to women who are eager to create dramatic manicures."

This collection was inspired by both the success and popularity of their collection that was only previously available to the nominees, performers and presenters of the 2013 GRAMMY and 2012 American Music Awards.

Keeping up with tradition, this new line will be available for celebrities and influencers in need of VIP beauty treatments for the Academy Awards festivities in February. 

Red Carpet Manicure polishes can be purchased at ULTA Beauty, www.ULTA.com, Fred Meyer, Meijer, Duane Reade, Wegman's, Harmon Drug, www.Drugstore.com and www.Walgreens.com.

To join the ongoing Red Carpet Manicure conversation, like them on Facebook at Facebook.com/RedCarpetManicure and follow them on Twitter @RedCarpetMani.

HAUTE Chocolate from Too Faced

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara has become one of my favorites ($ 23) as it truly makes my lashes look more dramatic and intense. So when I saw what I thought to be an incrEDIBLE looking collection, Haute Chocolate, I wanted to share it with you...

Chocolate Bar Palette / $49.00 / www.toofaced.com

Too Faced founder Jerrod Blandino was inspired to combine the power of antioxidant-rich cocoa powder and makeup while having a chocolate facial and learning about the benefits of cocoa at a Hawaiian spa. With the Chocolate Bar eye shadow collection, Too Faced is building off the success of the bestselling cocoa-infused Chocolate Soleil and Milk Chocolate Soleil bronzers for an indulgent eye shadow palette that is the first of its kind. The Chocolate Bar experience begins as soon as you open the palette and the smell of sweet chocolate envelops you.

Candy Bar Palette / $25.00 / www.toofaced.com

Your makeup routine has been forever changed! Too Faced was the first to create an all-in-one pop-out makeup palette and iPhone case. Based off an editor-favorite, Too Faced has created a decadent new, limited edition phone cover called Candy Bar. This chocolate bar inspired case includes a collection of 11 day-to-night shadows, a matte bronzer and a pop of pink blush.

Bulletproof Brows / $30.00 / www.toofaced.com

This groundbreaking brow definer is a powder, gel, pencil and setting wax all- in-one cashmere clay formula. It’s the only brow product you’ll ever need. Bulletproof Brow includes a mirror and our dual-sided angled and spooley brush for precise application. In just 60 seconds, color locks down for 24-hour, waterproof, smudge-proof, budge-proof Bulletproof Brows!

 

Sweethearts Perfect Flush Blush / $30.00 / www.toofaced.com

Blush is like dessert, you didn’t know you loved it until you had a taste of it. Like the perfect finish to a meal it shouldn’t be skipped! Based on the best-selling Sweetheart’s Perfect Flush Blush, we’ve developed two more no-fail color palette blushes to take the guesswork out of creating a sweet, romantic flush. In each baked, heart shaped blush there are three individual color swatches. Blend all three swatches together for one universal shade or use each swatch individually for custom color.

La Crème Color Drenched Lip Cream / $22.00 / www.toofaced.com

Indulge your lips with rich creamy color, drenched with luscious, hydrating moisturizers including white lotus flower and power peptides. This season Too Faced unveiled a new shade in each of the five La Crème color families in sweet, candy inspired colors: Pink Chocolate, Taffy, Bon Bon, Jelly Bean and Lollipop. Shown below are Coral Fire, In The Buff and Razzle Dazzle Rose.

 

Instant Attitude Brow Lift / $20.00 / www.toofaced.com

Instant Attitude is a celebrity secret and every girl’s best friend. Apply the soft matte, vanilla cream shade to the brow bone for the appearance of a lifted arch and eyes that look fresh and awake. When you use Instant Attitude, it’s like getting an instant brow lift. Plus, the non-shimmer formula makes you look more alert and awake without anyone noticing. 

 

Pro Essential “Teddy Bear Hair” Brush Set / $65.00 / www.toofaced.com

The signature Cruelty-Free Teddy Bear Hair Brushes are made with a luxurious synthetic "hair" that is as soft and silky as traditional animal hair but without any of the cruelty involved in making traditional brushes. Teddy Bear Hair grabs & blends the ideal amount of pigment for a flawless result every time. Too Faced has selected the top 5 brushes every woman needs to create limitless eye looks like a pro; all perfectly contained in a chic zippered pouch with a teddy bear charm.   

Knowing that I loved reviewing their Holiday collection and find the brand to have shades that are universally flattering, I am looking forward to getting these products into my hands...and then onto my face!

All available now by visiting online at www.toofaced.com . Have fun shopping!

 

 

 

New from Tarte: more products to LOVE that LAST!

Maureen Kelly, CEO and Founder of tarte cosmetics, built her brand from her desire to find products that were both pure and powerful. Tarte cosmetics Amazonian Clay 12 hour blush in Amused ($ 26) has become one of my favorites and I have also fallen for their mascaras, eyeshadows, liptints, etc. They have staying power, wonderful color options that meet every skin tones and are derived from healthy ingredients. What more can you ask for in a brand?

A few of their newest launched include:

Colored Clay CC Primer ( $34 each- available in fair, light (pictured/sampled), medium, tan and deep). 

This powerful, multi-tasking, skin perfector brightens skin, evens skin tone, blurs imperfections and neutralizes any redness or discolorations. The oil-free, talc-free formula soothes skin as it glides and blends effortlessly for a smooth, even finish. Its "hourglass" applicator design delivers the perfect balance of color correction and coverage to adjust to your skin. Use it before foundation as a color-correcting primer or alone as a light coverage for an all-over flawless look. The different colors do the following once applied to the skin:

- colored clay: specifically addresses individual skin & complexion concerns

- purple clay: brightens dull, lackluster skin

- green clay: neutralizes skin redness

Cheek Stain ( $30 each- available in 8 shades- 2 are NEW: fearless and blushing bride).

Take note that this is tarte’s award-winning and best-selling cheek stain as it gives you a gorgeous, natural flush in a gel or cream consistency. Rounded top cheek stains are gel based stains, while flat top cheek stains are the cream based version. This product imparts a natural flush with a streak free application. Get the look of love and an instant pop of soft & dreamy color by applying this to the apples of your cheeks. Unlike traditional stains that are hard to apply, this goof-proof tint melts into skin easily and gives you 20 seconds of blending time before it sets in place for all day wear. Once it blends it- it lasts all day long!

Power Pigment ( $24 each-available in 8 shades- all sampled/pictured- Tipsy, Flushed, True Love, Exposed, Blushing Bride, Natural Beauty, Blissful and Fearless).

Power up your pout! Inspired by our newly designed cheek stain, these punched up lip tints impart bold color and shine for a perfect smile all day long.

A burst of moisture hydrates lips while imparting rich, highly-pigmented color in new, skin brightening, vibrant shades, and the antioxidant formula with just a hint of refreshing peppermint nourishes and invigorates lips for a more plumed up appearance. The sleek, “skinny” packaging allows for the most precise application of your favorite color while minimizing waste and your carbon footprint.

A pic of me using both Cheek Stain and LipSurgence Power Pigment in Flush.

Flush, Tipsy, Blushing Bride, Exposed, Blissful, True Love, Natural Beauty & Fearless. 

Available now at www.tartecosmetics.com

I cannot tell you how much I have enjoyed both learning about and sampling this brand over the years. What are you favorite products from tarte?

 

Rodin Olio Lusso

It has been years since I first met Linda Rodin and I felt it was about time to talk about this lovely and creatively brilliant woman...

I have been brand loyal to her signature product, Rodin Olio Lusso, for years and still love applying it daily as it's scent is mesmerizing to me and helps keep my skin looking flawless. It's a luxury face oil compiled of 11 essential oils that are plant derived. It is available for $ 150 and mine lasts a few months as I use only a few drops daily both day and night.
 

 

Since that initial launch, Linda now has Body Oil, Lip Balm, Lip Balm Rings, Hair Oil ( created with  renowned hair stylist Bob Recine, Bath Bars, Candles, Travel Kits and Crema.

 

My lovely Linda and her sweetheart Winky! Love her Cynthia Rowley leggings by the way.

Their is Beauty in Simplicity. Linda Rodin was raised on this principal and her products are simply incredible. 

Available at www.oliolusso.com as well as boutique worldwide. The site has all of the store listings, addresses and such. Linda continues to grow so kindly stay tuned for upcoming launches.

In NYC, www.barneys.com , A Detachet, Better Beauty, Blue Tree, Burlap, Catbird, C.O. Bigelow, John Derian Dry Goods, Kiss And Make Up, Mick Margo, New London Pharmacy, Pas De Deux, Shen Beauty, Tenoverten, Turpan and Wonderland Beauty Parlor carry her line.

Truthfully, I used to ask Linda if there were pheromones in her oils as I cannot tell you how many compliments I get simply by wearing her oil.

Have any of you lovelies tried Linda's products? Like Parrot Cay, they too are my heaven on Earth!

Eye Lash Curlers that work!

If eyes are the windows to your soul and lashes are their window treatment- then eye lash curlers are a MUST! Don't get me wrong, not everyone needs to curl yet this article is for the people like me that once applied make my eyes look larger and my overall look more awake.

Hands down Shu Uemura 's ( found on www.shuuemeura-usa.com ) is my all time favorite for $21.00. You can also buy their New Generation Eyelash S Curler for $ 24 that has been in the press all over the place as it's said to be a wonderful addition to their best selling Eyelash Curler. The new S curler can truly get into harder to reach lashes as it is more compact and you can emphasize parts of your lashes without pinching. 

After Shu- Kevyn Aucoin's The Eyelash Curler is another favorite of mine available online at www.kevynaucoin.com  for $  21. I have loved this one for years. The red silicone pad allows my lashes to always look glamorous and he was truly a genius at what he did and I will forever remember him as having great integrity and incredible skills!

The black one pictured above is from Emite Make Up By Artists For Artists and was in my Glossybox and it works beautifully. I have seen it available in www.amazon.com . Love it!

We must also address Troy Surratt's Relevee Lash Curler exclusively at www.barneys.com  for $ 25. It's ergonomic design required less pressure on your lashes and it curls beautifully.
 

Drugstore brands offer wonderful curlers too- from Sally Hansen, Revlon, Covergirl, L' Oreal and even the drugstore's own brands. They're most often under $ 10, too! 

 

There are so many more to love- please share with me some of your faves as nearly every beauty line has a curler! 

New HD Pressed Powder from Make Up For Ever

As you know, I love this brand for it's long wear, great variety of color options as well as the brand itself being the industry's leading professional makeup brand.

As soon as I saw this product online at Sephora.com I knew it may take a while to roll out into the stores. It's available exclusively at Sephora, www.Sephora.com and Make Up For Ever Boutiques in February 2014 for $ 36.

I must tell you this powder is not only lightweight but also talc free and silky to the touch. I applied it using their Kabuki Brush # 124 ($ 52) and it set my foundation and evened out my complexion.  MUFE has re-invented it's best selling HD Microfinish Loose Powder and created this compact to offer a quick and easy solution for the camera ready society. Between social media, smart phone cameras and videos- a flawless complexion is very much appreciated at all times! I love it already as it is completely translucent on the skin.

How many of you lovelies don't like your personal pictures of yourselves due to oil shine or uneven skin tone? Here is your solution to that challenge. 

Used today while wearing my favorite red lippy in No. 8 from the MUFE Aqua Rouge collection. 

Alterna Haircare Caviar Anti-Aging Omega+ Nourishing Oil

As you may remember, I am a big fan of Alterna Haircare. See if this pic jogs your memory?!

Katie Holmes and I love more than the products above as their dry shampoo is fab, too. I get three days use of a blowout when using it! 

Then along comes a delightfully lightweight, but rich,  caviar omega oil that leaves the hair both silky and shiny and I just love it. It has been clinically proven to increase shine by 250%! It improves the overall condition of the hair by 80%! 

Apply just a small amount to clean, damp hair for hydration and shine. I used it after my hair was dry for this silky look.

The Omega-3 and C22 Fatty Acids help combat dry, brittle, course hair by softening and adding shine. The Age Control Complex addresses natural as well as chemical aging and the Caviar Extract and Vitamin C help to smooth each and every hair strand.

Alterna Haircare Caviar Anti-Aging Omega+ Nourishing Oil will be available for $ 38 beginning March 2014 at fine salons and at Sephora and www.Sephora.com. 

Note: I already saw it online friends, so SHINE ON! 

New from Estée Lauder: Double Wear All Day Glow BB

Upon seeing this ad campaign, I knew I had to review the new Double Wear All-Day Glow BB Moisture Makeup SPF 30 ($ 38) as well as the Double Wear Brush-On-Glow BB Highlighter ($ 27.50) as the models looked luminous with having natural coverage. 

This is the first long wearing BB makeup from Estée Lauder as it offers sheer coverage with a lightweight texture that instantly brightens and perfects skin's natural undertones and color. It also provides an immediate all day radiance that is comfortable to wear and hydrating to the skin.

Soft optics brighten skin and add a flawless luminosity for up to 8 hours. A carefully orchestrated blend of moisturizing ingredients, including hyaluronic acid and glycerin provide skin with exceptional moisturizing makeup.

Available in a range of eight complexion enhancing shades to suit every skin tone, this product was created for all skin types. Apply to clean skin over moisturizer with your fingertips or using an Estée Lauder Foundation Brush. For additional coverage, layer this under your foundation of choice. It's up to you!

Before & After- you can see immediate brightness and hydration!

Double Wear Brush-On-Glow BB Highlighter works with just one stroke!  This, too, delivers instant radiance that is also long wearing for up to 8 hours. Using Photo Optic Technology, the formula brightens shadows and heps erase the look of fatigue and dark circles. It acts to highlight facial features and is lightweight and soothing upon application. Non- setting, color true, fragrance free, Opthamologist and Dermatologist tested, this innovative highlighter is offered in a range of eiight instantly radiant shades. Ideal for on the go touch ups, this highlighter is easy to apply. Simply twist the bottom of the applicator to dispense the perfect amount of product. Softly then brush onto contour areas of the face and gently pat with your fingertip to blend. 

Both products will be available at Estée Lauder counters nationwide and on www.EsteeLauder.com beginning February 2014.

They had me at instant radiance! Who doesn't want that?! 

Refresh, highlight and glow...

OCC NEW Cosmetic Colour Pencils for Spring 2014

I can feel my heart beating faster just looking at the pencils being launched by OCC! I am already in love with their Lip Tars and this expansion of their line has my adrenaline soaring to new heights!

12 new pencils products will be unveiled online at www.occmakeup.com  and www.sephora.com  in February 1, 2014 and in Sephora stores on February 18, 2014!

These not only will compliment the best selling Lip Tar shades yet will also offer what every woman often wants- an invisible liner named Anti-Feathered. I almost always use a base liner to hold the lippy in place and cannot wait to use this. They will be $ 16 each and will range from a true white to a true black. I know a little always goes a long way with regards to their Lip Tars so I cannot wait to have these in my hands! 

These can be used on lips, eyes and face yet exceptions apply as Anime, Black Dahlia, Grandma, Hoochie, NSFW and Trick are NOT recommended for use in the immediate eye area. Other than that- have fun, be playful and get these 100% Vegan and Cruelty Free new Cosmetic Lip Colours when they launch! 

What are some of your favorite OCC products? 

Beauty Is OUR Addiction : Things to look forward to reading about!

Beauty Is OUR Addiction : Things to look forward to reading about!: Just wanted to let you know I am working on articles that will incorporate new collaborations, facial and body oils that I adore at differen...

Things to look forward to reading about!

Just wanted to let you know I am working on articles that will incorporate new collaborations, facial and body oils that I adore at different price points and much more!

 

 

 

 

Just to get you excited! So many new products to love! Coming soon!