Honest Beauty Picks for The Holidays

Happy Holidays! Below are two color products Jessica Alba will be using this holiday season. From a rich burgundy lip to a touch of shimmer on the eyes, Jessica’s go-to picks are perfect for pulling off a subtle yet festive makeup look.

Honest Beauty Truly Kissable Lip Crayon in Mulberry Kiss ($18, Target.com & HonestBeauty.com) 

Get mistletoe ready in a swipe with this creamy color infused with moisturizing properties for your most luscious lips
Honest Beauty True Velvet Eyeliner in Truly Gold ($16, HonestBeauty.com) 

Layer this universally flattering shade on top of other liners for eye-catching dimension or as a metallic accent.

Wishing you all a very wonderful holiday and cheers to 2018!

Eylure x Vegas Nay Collaboration: Just In Time For The Holidays

Eylure is teaming up with beauty vlogger, Vegas Nay to launch two new brow palettes to help you achieve your #browgoals! The new collection will be available on Ulta.com starting December 18th. The collection includes a Brow Powder Palette and a Brow Highlighting Palette. Together, the palettes have everything you need to create mesmerizing, enviable brows.

Vegas Nay Brow Powder Palette ($19.99) - This gorgeous Brow and Shadow Pro-Palette has nine intense custom colours and a brow primer. 

The palette includes: 

Warm and cool shades for blonde, brunette, and black brows. An unpigmented creamy primer to intensify pigment further and prolong wear. A double-ended applicator with an angled brush and tapered spoolie for grooming.

Available: Ulta.com starting 12/18

Vegas Nay Brow Highlighting Palette ($14.99) -This highlighter kit has six highly-pigmented shades. 

This palette includes: 

Six matte and shimmer powders in pink, gold and bronze shades. An applicator with a rounded sponge and brush for a professional finish.

Available: Ulta.com starting 12/18

NEW: Blenderelle® Sponge Makeup Storage

Just in time for the holidays! This product was of complete interest to me as I always store my beautyblender's in their original packaging once cleaned and dried. The new Blenderelle® is said to solve makeup sponge storage problems, keeping blenders looking fresh, making them healthier for the skin and also said to be virtually kept cleaner for longer periods of time.

It’s case solved this week for beauty mavens fearful of breaking out after using bacteria-ridden sponges and tired of throwing away grimy makeup blenders as the game changing Blenderelle® hygienic storage solution drops two fabulous new colors.

A sell out when it first launched earlier this year, Blenderelle® is an innovative antibacterial storage solution all shaped make blenders. With beauty buffs from as far afield as the Asia, Europe and Australia snapping up the original pink and pearl designs, the elegant and practical Blenderelle® is now back, smarter and more stylish than ever with the Blenderelle® Pro in sleek black gloss and an ultra-fashionable, limited edition metallic rose gold.

Both covetable new Blenderelle® colors provide the best possible protection for any makeup blender. Just as no two glam goddesses are created equal, Blenderelle® knows that everyone has their own personal preferred style of makeup sponge – both the black gloss and metallic rose gold Blenderelle® are designed to hold all popular shapes and sizes, perfectly.

While many crave the flawless finish, a dirty damp makeup blender is a breeding ground for contamination and bacteria which can clog pores and irritate skin. The new Blenderelle® designs pack powerful protection into their elegant form and include EPA registered antimicrobial. This reduces the risk of cross-contamination and controls odor-causing bacteria. The elegant tulip shape incorporates vents in three area (at the top, middle and base) allowing air to circulate and the sponge to dry while stored.

With a twist opening mechanism, level feet to double up as a storage stand, clutch-bag friendly sizing and the choice of glossy black or metallic rose gold, the new look Blenderelle® is perfect for anyone who wants to blend, defend and go.

Sam Palmer, CEO and founder of Blenderelle® said, “We are beyond excited to launch the latest Blenderelle® colors! The original two options sold out so much quicker than we had anticipated but since then, we have been working on our two stunning new colors. We’ve listened to our customers and thanks to their feedback, came up with glossy black and the limited edition rose gold, which is already a massive hit. I set out to create Blenderelle® in 2015 and after launching, earlier this year, I quickly realized the extent of the frustration from other makeup sponge users and the desperate need for a case. The journey so far has been very exciting and rewarding to realize we really are solving the worlds dirty sponge problems! . We wanted to ensure we nailed the new colors and make them our best yet - and we are confident we have! They have arrived just in time for the holidays and make the perfect stocking stuffer.”

Blenderelle® Pro in sleek black gloss and the limited edition metallic rose gold are priced at $16, with free shipping and are shipped in beautiful packaging ready for gifting or glamming.

To find out more, visit www.nycdesigned.com.

About NYC Designed

NYC Designed is a leading provider of innovative cosmetic tools and storage solutions. The company’s mission is to provide beauty enthusiasts with premium quality products. Its Blender Bud™, Blenderelle®, and Nail Caddy™ make life easier when it comes to the daily makeup routine.

John Frieda and the 2018 Pantone Color of the Year: Ultra Violet

Pantone announces Ultra Violet as the 2018 color of the year. A color that represents originality, ingenuity and visionary thinking – which makes it the perfect new color and look for the iconic John Frieda Hair Care Frizz Ease collection. In this house we have been using these products for years as they have kept our tresses looking both healthy and voluminous.

John Frieda Frizz Ease has been on shelves for over a quarter of a century, keeping their innovative and revolutionary products the leader in fighting frizz. Whether it’s a cult classic that smooths hair for every look or a shampoo that moisturizes and hydrates, John Frieda Frizz Ease is there for you no matter what you need.

Frizz Ease Secret Weapon Touch Up Crème ($6.99): Smooth frizz and flyaways instantly—anywhere, anytime—for a flawless, shiny finish.

Frizz Ease Daily Nourishment Shampoo + Conditioner ($5.99): Give your hair a daily dose of hydration with this duo that provides humidity resistance, breakage reduction and improved conditioning. With this shampoo and conditioner, you will keep your hair continuously soft, silky and smooth. 

Frizz Ease Air Dry Waves Styling Foam ($9.99): Achieve your desired soft, natural and touchable air-dry waves that you can run your fingers through.

Follow us @JohnFriedaUS #YourHairTalksMakeAStatement

GLAMSQUAD X Art Basel Travel Offer

Yes, everyone I know will soon be traveling to Art Basel so I certainly wanted this offer to be seen right away. I have used GLAMSQUAD a few times and have been very pleased with the results! So, if you need your hair, makeup or nails done, please use the offer below.

Traveling to Art Basel from NYC or LA? Enjoy $15 off GLAMSQUAD services during your stay by using the code below. Sit back and relax as our hand-selected and rigorously vetted beauty professionals transform your look from head-to-toe in up to an hour from the convenience of your hotel. With personalized consultations and a range of signature looks, GLAMSQUAD will give you the full VIP experience ensuring you look and feel your best all Basel long.

CODE: BASEL2017 (valid from 12/4-12/11 for one-time use; code limited to first 100 users).

Schedule an appointment via the GLAMSQUAD app or at www.glamsquad.com

Photo by @just_a_spectator at Emma Gordon Levine and my curated 

 "Art Relief For Direct Relief" charity event 

for Puerto Rico in which I used GLAMSQUAD for both hair and make up.

Art by Danny Greene.

Launching Soon from Smashbox Cosmetics: Always On Liquid Lipstick

I admit, it does not often happen when a beauty brand I love, a Makeup Artist I love AND a gallery I love combine forces. Such was the case when the deliciously delightful Vlada Haggerty came to town to debut her art collection at AFA Gallery alongside fellow artists Colin Christian and Sas Christian. Vlada is the Lip Editor in Chief for Smashbox Cosmetics and it was an absolute pleasure to spend time with her and learn more about her artistry.

A lot of new products were showcased at the event, with a December 15th release date, and I was able to swatch and fall for many of the products on display. I especially liked a new Metallic Matte called XO, Vlada which is a Rose Gold with Gold Pearl color I wouldn't normally have tried before. I put it on my Instastory as I really loved the metallic color. I nearly always wear red. Vlada responded right away and agreed it looked great! She knows I love my red lippy's, so this was truly a different look for me! 

After meeting Vlada and the Smashbox team, I swatched the Mattes I received and added four Metallic Mattes on top. 

Mattes swatched from bottom up: Gotta Light, Stay Neutral, Purple Taffy, Spoiler Alert, Teal With It, Ultra-Violet and Fair Game.

Metallic Mattes swatched from bottom up: So Jelly, Vino Noir, Punked Rock and XO, Vlada.

I can attest that they stay on for hours on end without any build up, flaking nor smudging. Absolutely incredible formula. 

Each are $24 and you will be able to find many more colors available on December 15th, 2017 at Sephora, Ulta, Macy's Impulse and Smashbox.com.

Below are pictures from the event and a great time was had by all!

 

 

New from Cargo Cosmetics: Limited Edition Cargo x Star Wars Episode VIII The Last Jedi Collection

Each season, Cargo Cosmetics journeys to a different destination as a nod to the free spirit of the independent traveler. For Fall/Holiday 2017, the beauty brand embarks on an intergalactic voyage transporting consumers to a galaxy far, far away.

Award-winning color brand, Cargo Cosmetics, launched the  limited edition Star Wars: The Last Jedi makeup collection and it is bound to be the perfect holiday gift!

The new Star Wars: The Last Jedi film debuts in U.S. theaters on December 15, 2017. Cargo Cosmetics’ and this capsule collection inspired by the film will is available right in time for the holidays.

The Cargo Cosmetics Star Wars: Episode VIII The Last Jedi Collection is now available on Kohls.com and will be rolling out to 1,100 Kohl’s doors. The collection is also for sale on CargoCosmetics.com.

“This collaboration with Disney has given our team an opportunity to really showcase our creativity," says Brian Robinson, President of Cargo Cosmetics." Cargo is regularly used on the sets of hit Hollywood films so developing a line for Star Wars: The Last Jedi just further reinforces our brand’s identity. We are truly excited to be able to offer the Cargo customer this exclusive capsule collection in addition to the regularly planned Fall/Holiday launches.”

The new film debuts in U.S. theaters on December 15, 2017. Cargo’s collection inspired by the new movie is a limited edition capsule so it is up to you to move at light-speed in order to call them your own!

Follow @CargoCosmetics on Instagram and Twitter and become a fan of Cargo Cosmetics on Facebook.

About Cargo Cosmetics

For 20 years, Cargo Cosmetics has been a staple on the sets of film and television as well as in the makeup bags of women worldwide. High-definition foundations that escape the scrutiny of HD cameras and first-to-market innovations have created a loyal following amongst the world’s most renowned makeup artists. An industry insider favorite, Cargo has received some of the beauty industry’s most prestigious awards. As a nod to the free spirit of the independent traveler, Cargo chooses a different location to transport fans to each season. Visit www.cargocosmetics.com for additional information.

Black Friday/Cyber Monday Deals: dr. brandt Skincare

Fellow beauty lovers! I am trying to give you as much information as possible this week so that all of your beauty needs may be met! There are so many wonderful deals and here are just a few from dr. brandt Skincare.

BLACK FRIDAY

WHAT: 45% OFF Needles No More® No More Baggage
WHERE: www.drbrandtskincare.com
WHEN: Friday, November 24

CYBER MONDAY

WHAT: Buy 1 and get 1 free: Do Not Age Triple Peptide Eye Cream ($82), Microdermabrasion ($79), Pores No More® Pore Refiner Primer ($45), Magnetight Age-Defier ($75), Do Not Age Time Defying Cream ($132), 2% Retinol Complex Serum ($69)
WHERE: www.drbrandtskincare.com
WHEN: Monday, November 27

Holiday Deals and Steals

There are so many wonderful beauty deals happening very shortly. As we get closer to Thanksgiving, it’s hard not to think about those great shopping deals for both Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Please look below for a roundup of amazing beauty brand offerings and deals. I think you may want to print out this page to take with you while shopping for holiday gifts!

L’OREAL PARIS
Amazon.com

· 11/27 – For 24 hours, L’Oréal Paris is offering two Voluminous Carbon Black Mascara (America’s #1 Best-Selling Mascara) for under $10; Price: $9.99 on Amazon.com (SRP is $7.99 each)


URBAN DECAY
UrbanDecay.com

11/24- 11/26 – 25% off all products + Free Shipping
11/27 – 50% Off Vice Lipstick
11/28 – 20% Off Select Vaults + 50% off Moondust Eyeshadow Palette & UD Pro Brushes

11/29 - $10 Shadowbox, $15 Electric Palette, $25 NAKED Smoky
11/30 – 10 Samples + UD Tote Bag with $55 purchase
12/1 – 12/4 - $27 NAKED Ultimate Basics, $10 Brow Box
ARDELLive 30% off the Faux Mink Lash Lookbook + Duo (Origin
Ulta.com

· 11/17 – 11/18 – Receal Price: $39.99) and Lookbook Faves (Original Price: $24.99)
· 11/27 – Receive 30% off the Ardell Mini Lash Lookbook + Duo in Faves and Wispies (Original Price is $9.99)

SallyBeauty.com

· 11/18/17 - 11/22/17 – Buy one Ardell product, and get one free Ardell Beauty product

GOSMiLE
GoSmile.com

11/24 – Receive 50% off The Big White Box ($130 value). The box includes a range of best sellers: Dental Pro Teeth Whitening Kit in Violet, Stain Erasers, On-The-Go Teeth Whitening Pen and a Full Size Luxury Toothpaste. Price: $65.00 for Black Friday

KÉRASTASE
Kerastase-USA.com

· 11/24 – Receive 20% off when you spend $125 or more, plus a comb and two mini products gift with purchase and free shipping

PROACTIV
Proactiv.com

· November/ December – Exclusive RetailMeNot deal – Offering $10 cash back on online purchases of $35

JUNE JACOBS
JuneJacobs.com

· 11/19 – 12/2 – Receive 25% off site-wide on JuneJacobs.com, excluding holiday gift sets

STRIVECTIN
Strivectin.com

11/22 – 11/26: Up to 50% off exclusive online sets
11/27 – 12/3: 30% off site wide + free full size gift with purchase (to be determined)

CLARISONIC
Clarisonic.com 

11/24 – Offering 30% off all devices (including Holiday Gift Sets) + free gift Lancôme Absolue BX Cream (0.5oz) GWP (a $50 value)
· 11/27 – Offering 30% off devices + free full size Lancome Energie de Vie Moisturizer (1.7 oz) (a $55 Value)
11/27 – Brush Head BOGO - buy one facial cleansing brush head, get one free

PETER THOMAS ROTH
PeterThomasRoth.com

· 11/24 – Mega-Rich Cellular Crème (3.4 OZ) will be available for $24 (original price $120)
· 11/24 – With any purchase of $50+ receive a Skin to Die For Primer
· 11/27 – Receive 50% Retinol Fusion PM Serum

BLISS
BlissWorld.com

· 11/20 – 11/27 – Receive 40% off site-wide (excludes gift card purchases)
· 11/24 – With a purchase of $125 or more, receive a travel bag with seven best-selling travel-sized items
· 11/24 – With a purchase of $100 or more, receive a travel bag with five best-selling travel-sized items

SKINCEUTICALS
Skinceuticals.com
11/22 – Customize a complimentary 4-piece travel regimen with any $185 purchase (a $45 value)
11/22 – Receive a limited edition deluxe sample size of Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 ($40 value) and a complimentary cosmetic bag with orders of $250 or more

ERNO LASZLO
ErnoLazslo.com 

11/20 – 11/27 – Receive a free White Marble Double Cleanse Sample with every purchase and $10 off your next ErnoLazslo.com purchase (cannot be combined with any other promo).
11/20 – 11/27 – VIP orders of $600 or more will additionally receive a full-size White Marble Dual Phase Vitamin C Peel ($100 value).
Additional promotional discounts include
Spend $100, get $15 off purchase
Spend $250, get $50 off purchase
Spend $400, get $100 off purchase
Spend $600, get $180 off purchase

LAURA GELLER
Macys.com
11/24 - Laura Geller Hollywood Eyes 4 Piece Kit includes Baked Eclipse Eye Shadow Palette, LashBoss Mascara, INKcredible Eyeliner, Color Luster Lip Gloss Lip Gloss. Price: $23 (original value: $87)

LauraGeller.com
11/24 - Laura Geller The Sweetest Kiss includes Lip Strip Smoothing Sugar Scrub, Pout Perfection Lip Liner, and Shine Stick Triple Benefit Lip Color. Price: $19 (original value: $49)

ULTA.com
11/27- Laura Geller Hollywood Glam Squad 4 Piece Collection includes Spackle Under Make-Up Primer, I-Care Waterproof Gel Eyeliner in Black, Fifty Kisses Lip Locking Liquid Color in Ravishing Rose and Baked Gelato Swirl Illuminator in Gilded Honey. Price: $18 (original value: $59)

RALPH LAUREN
ralphlauren.com
11/24 – Purchase one full size POLO RED INTENSE, receive a 200mL Body Spray ($23 value). The fragrance builds on Ralph Lauren’s original Polo Red with a higher concentration of bolder ingredients. It is available at Macy’s, Dillards, Bonton and Belk. Price: $92 for Black Friday.
11/27 - 12/1 – Purchase any full size WORLD OF POLO fragrance, and receive a 3 piece deluxe mini gift. The gift set includes a range of the best sellers in the Polo franchise: Polo Blue, Polo Red and Polo Red Extreme. Available at Macys.com. Price: $95 for Black Friday.

Holiday Options: ELEMIS, Cartier, Honest Beauty, Tweezerman and More

Yes, the holidays are vastly approaching and gift giving is now officially on my mind! I wanted to share some holiday offerings from Cartier, ELEMIS, Honest Beauty, Tweezerman, Vernon François & Youth To The People that are perfect presents for everyone on your list.

FOR HER:

THE BEAUTY GURU: Items sure to impress even the most committed beauty junkie

Cartier La Panthère Etincelante Limited Edition Perfumed Powder ($75, Neiman Marcus Exclusive)
ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Perfect Duo($190.50, ELEMIS.com)
Tweezerman Glitz & Glam Gift Set ($48, Tweezerman.com)
Vernon François Dazz~Ling Spritz Shine Spray ($24, Sephora.com)

THE ADVENTURESS: Gifts to leave her prepped & ready for her next big adventure

Cartier La Panthère Etincelante Limited Edition Shimmering Purse Spray ($70 , .8fl oz., Neiman Marcus Exclusive)
Honest Beauty Jet Set Kit ($29, HonestBeauty.com/Ulta.com)
Honest Beauty Truly Kissable Lip Crayon in Mulberry Kiss ($18, Target.com) *great stocking stuffer! Tweezerman Sparkle & Shine Gift Set ($48, Tweezerman.com)
Youth To The People Youth Duo Mini ($20, Sephora.com)

THE HARDWORKER: Items to help de-stress and unwind the hardworking women in your life

ELEMIS Soothing Glow Candle ($33, ELEMIS.com) *same scent ELEMIS’ best-selling Cleansing Balm
Youth To The People Age Prevention Superfood Mask ($44, Sephora.com)

FOR HIM:

THE MODERN MAN: Gifts to keep the man on-the-go looking dapper as ever 

Cartier L’Envol de Cartier Eau de Toilette($105, 2.7oz, Bloomingdales.com)
ELEMIS The Adventurer ($67.50, ELEMIS.com)

Happy World Vegan Day from Youth To The People

In honor of World Vegan Day, veganize your skincare routine with Youth To The People!

Packed with nutrient-rich superfoods, Youth To The People is made up of 100% recyclable packaging and cold-pressed vegan ingredients leaving skin looking more radiant & healthier than ever.

Below are some Youth To The People’s must-have products that will leave a positive impact both on your skin and the planet!

Youth To The People Age Prevention Cleanser ($36, Sephora.com) 

This gentle cleanser packs a powerful punch, as it serves as a cleanser, toner (pH-balanced) and makeup remover (can even remove waterproof products). 

Youth To The People Age Prevention Moisture Cream ($48, Sephora.com) 

A lightweight formula that is hydrating enough for the winter and can be used both AM & PM.

Youth To The People Age Prevention Superfood Mask ($44, Sephora.com) 

This green machine will freshen your face while you take the perfect mask selfie.

John Freida: A Results Driven Brand

I have been a fan for DECADES! Love the way these products make my hair both look and feel. It keeps those curls frizz free and also allows for a healthier look when straightened as well!

PREP THE RIGHT WAY WITH JOHN FRIEDA HAIR CARE

The products you use to prep your hair for styling are just as important as the ones you use to lock in the look. No matter what style you’re in the mood for, there’s a John Frieda Hair Care product to help you get your statement making look.

           

FOR THE PERFECT CURLS:

John Frieda Frizz Ease Dream Curls Daily Styling Spray ($6.99, Food, Drug and Mass Retailers Nationwide)

Revitalize and enhance your natural curls for frizz-free, salon-touchable hold. The perfect touch up to your curls, the alcohol-free formula restores definition, elasticity and bounce and will leave your hair glistening with healthy-looking shine.

FOR THE PERFECT BLOW OUT:

John Frieda Luxurious Volume Perfectly Full Mousse ($9.99, Food, Drug and Mass Retailers Nationwide)

This light, airy foam instantly plumps limp strands, building in natural body for hair that feels three times thicker. With the flexible formula, it will give your hair a clean, natural feel leaving hair magnificently lush and full all-night long.

FOR THE PERFECT EVERY DAY ‘DO:

John Frieda Frizz Ease Straight Fixation Styling Crème ($5.99, Food, Drug and Mass Retailers Nationwide)

Smooth away frizz and keep your hair soft and moisturized for up to 24 hours with this styling crème. Added bonus, it contains a special ThermaGuard Complex, which helps protect against damage to heat tools, such as blow-dryers and flat irons.

Follow the buzz @JohnFriedaUS

#YourHairTalksMakeAStatement

Honest Beauty/Jessica Alba x Rebecca Minkoff NYFW SS18

I am a big fan of both Honest Beauty and Rebecca Minkoff so I had to cover the looks for SS18 for NYFW.

MAKEUP LEAD: Daniel Martin for Honest Beauty

INSPIRATION: “The collection was inspired by the Rolling Stones early years, so I wanted to play up the eyes in a unique way, creating a dual-tone smoky look. It was important to give off grungy vibes while still being feminine and pretty.”

JESSICA ALBA SAYS: “I am so excited to have Honest Beauty partner with Rebecca Minkoff. I love how Rebecca takes risks while still creating beautiful pieces that are both modern and wearable. The smoky look Daniel created with Honest Beauty pairs with Rebecca’s 2018 Spring Collection for a perfect combo of edgy and classic. Any girl can rock the subtle smoky eye with glowing skin -- and the best part is you can get the look with your everyday product."

THE LOOK

FOR THE SKIN:

Younger + Clearer Clarifying Toner ($18)
Even Brighter Everyday Moisturizer ($34)
Even Brighter Everyday Moisturizer ($34)
The Younger Eye Cream ($28)

Tip: Prep skin with a clarifying toner and brightening moisture to ensure skin is fully cleaned, toned and hydrated before applying makeup

FOR THE EYES:

True Velvet Eyeliner in Truly Black & Truly Sapphire ($16 each)
Eyeshadow Trio in Smoky Grey & Ocean Blue ($25 each)
Truly Lush Mascara + Lash Primer ($22)

Tip: To create a dual-toned smoky eye, line the top waterline and tightline with black liner and the bottom with sapphire and close eyes tightly allowing the liners run and set using a similar powder shade to create a more smudged, slept-in look *Use the darkest shades over the liners & dab on the slate grey in the inner corners to make eyes pop

FOR THE BROWS:

Brow Filler ($15)
Truly Lush Mascara + Lash Primer ($22)

Tip: Lash primer works double duty! Keep brows in place by brushing the hair upwards with the primer to create hold and definition

FOR THE COMPLEXION:

Everything Cream Foundation ($30)
Concealer Duo ($20)
Invisible Blurring Powder ($28)
Crème Blush in Truly Teasing ($22)

Tip: Make sure skin is camera ready with a quick dust of powder just in your t-zone allowing skins natural luminosity to still show through

FOR THE LIPS:

Truly Kissable Lip Crayon in Sheer Chestnut Kiss ($18)
Magic Balm ($18)

Tip: Top off the look by dabbing Magic Balm to the center of your lips to give your pout a subtle shine without looking overly glossy

Retailer: Honest Beauty products are available at HonestBeauty.com, Target.com and at select Target retail locations.