Saturday, October 30, 2010
The Shower Gel Journey: Laura Mercier Almond Coconut Milk Crème Body Wash
Thursday, October 28, 2010
NEST Fragrances Project Art Candle in Tulip Garden: Plus a Video!
D-I-V-I-N-E. In a word, exactly what the new NEST Fragrances Project Art Candle in Tulip Garden says to me. Check out my video for my review!
Best of all, this candle is only $9.99! You can find it at select Bed Bath & Beyond and Hallmark stores.
Hanes Launches Silk Reflections Ultra Sheer And I Met Celebrity Stylist Phillip Bloch!
If you want to get in on the sheer tights trend, you'll definitely want to know about the new Hanes Silk Reflections Ultra Sheer. At an event yesterday announcing the launch (which will be available at department stores in February 2011), celebrity stylist Phillip Bloch had us all laughing uproariously while he took us through the big trends of the season -- all perfect with Hanes Silk Reflections Ultra Sheer, of course!
Hanes Silk Reflections Ultra Sheer will be available in six shades -- Barely Black®, Barely There®, Gentlebrown, Jet, Little Color®, Natural -- with a retail price of $10. Each one is like "cosmetics for the legs," according to Phillip.
And -- as if that weren't enough -- Phillip was amazingly nice, chatting with each of us personally after the event and even posing for photos! Check us out!
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Fashion Question: Do You Change Your Bag To Match Your Outfit?
Above is a picture of my actual bag. Can you believe I actually move most of that stuff around from bag to bag on an almost daily basis so my bag matches my outfit?
How about you? Do you change your bag to match your outfit? Let me know in the comments!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
The Shower Gel Journey: Philosophy Lilac Blossom Shower Gel
Ooh La La! And add numerous exclamation points. How can a body gel feel so good? It can if it’s Philosophy Lilac Blossom Shower Gel. I’d heard from others that Philosophy is the product of choice, but I’d never had the chance to test that theory. How right they are! My skin glows, soft and smooth. All of the little wrinkly crinkly areas sighed with bliss as they were caressed with the creamy lotion-like shower gel. The scent does not overpower but stimulates and invigorates.
Then, I ventured into using Lilac Blossom as a shampoo. Yes! Lathered softness and clean, shiny hair. I don’t have the frizzies after applying Lilac Blossom, and I ALWAYS suffer from that affliction.
The Philosophy line ascribes to a science-based skin care technology, employing medically accepted ingredients. According to Philosophy, “[Our] promise is to bring its customers products that inspire them to live a better life by being better to themselves. We believe the best cosmetic is great looking skin.”
Bottom line: I love this product!
Note: This product is no longer available.
Nail Polish Collection Review: Color Club Untamed Luxury
Colors so luxe, they're covered in diamonds. That's the line of thought behind Color Club Untamed Luxury, the new collection for Fall 2010 -- and let me tell you, it's right on the money. Check out tons of sparkle, glitter and glam after the jump. (Note: each polish was applied with two coats.)
Monday, October 25, 2010
Mani of the Week: Essie Angora Cardi
I know this color is from last year, but I'm still totally in love with it. Essie Angora Cardi is the perfect mix of mauve, purple and brown -- so chic and sophisticated. I love the creamy finish -- the polish just glides right onto the nail.
What are you wearing on your nails this week? Let me know in the comments!
My New Favorite Moisturizer: Bulgari Gem Essence Source Defense Cellular Antioxidant Cream
Remember when I told you how horrible my skin has looked recently? (Click here for a recap.) Well, I've found the answer. Bulgari Gem Essence Source Defense Cellular Antioxidant Cream has literally brought my skin back from the dead in a matter of days.
For starters, my skin was so dry it was peeling off in scaly patches. Pretty unsightly, not to mention terrifying! Bulgari Source Defense cleared this up in just two days. Now my skin is smooth and baby soft to the touch -- not a glimpse of dryness to be found!
I am, of course, completely enamored of the glamorous packaging. The angular clear tub is topped by a signature silver cap with pale blue center -- one of the more gorgeous beauty products atop my vanity, to be sure. Within the tub lies a gloriously scented pink cream -- not too light, not too heavy but just right. The cream is formulated with Thioneine-EC Complex, an antioxidant which encourages the strengthning of skin's natural defenses, and Hydra Filaggrin, which hydrates and restores the skin immediately.
To be honest, I have no idea how I survived until now without this rich, luxurious cream in my life. I know it won't be leaving my vanity anytime soon!
Bulgari Gem Essence Source Defense Cellular Antioxidant Cream retails for $185 at bergdorfgoodman.com.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Sunscreen on the Go: Supergoop! SPF 30+ Sunscreen Swipes with Zinc for Sensitive Skin
When you're in a hurry, sometimes the last thing you want to worry about is sunscreen. But since it's really important to protect your skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays, what's a gal to do? Why not pick up Supergoop! SPF 30+ Sunscreen Swipes with Zinc for Sensitive Skin?
Beauty Question: What Was Your First Memorable Spa Experience?
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At the spa that day, post-massage. I looked so relaxed, my friend Lisa had to snap a photo! |
Saturday, October 23, 2010
My Latest Mani: Zoya Roxy
It took me until today to break Zoya Roxy out of my stash. All I can say is, WOW. What a sparkling stunner! I love the richly pigmented hue -- it's a gorgeous mix of fuchsia, magenta and berry -- and the fact that it's liberally packed with pink glitter just ups its appeal.
What's on your nails right now? Let me know in the comments!
Trend-Spotting: Owl Pendants
A word to the wise: owl pendants are all the rage. From Forever 21 to Gorjana, nature's wisest creature brings whimsicality to your look. Check out my favorites after the jump.
The Shower Gel Journey: Aveda Caribbean Therapy Body Cleanser
Ever since treating myself to the luxurious experience of having my hair styled at an Aveda salon, I’ve always relished the distinct smell of the products. One whiff and I know I’m in the presence of superlative products. With glee, I opened the tube of Aveda Caribbean Therapy Body Cleanser, prepared to pamper my skin with extraordinary emollients. The rich, creamy lather exuded island aromas of amyris, bay, vetiver and lime with the purpose of soothing and smoothing. Oh yes! Mission accomplished!
Using natural ingredients with an earth-friendly mission, Aveda, the Art and Science of Pure Flower and Plant Essences, respects nature and strives to maintain respect for the environment. They say, “Authentic Beauty cares for the environment which we inherited from elders and will leave to generations that follow us.”
I plan to use Caribbean Therapy body cleanser until there’s none left in the tube. My skin will thank me!
Aveda Caribbean Therapy Body Cleanser retails for $25 at aveda.com.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Beauty Question: What Do You Do for Really Dry Skin?
So recently I got a facial at Christine Chin, which I'd been wanting to check out for quite some time. I was really excited, until I got there and was told I'd be having microdermabrasion. Let me preface this with two statements:
1) I have fairly good skin to begin with
2) My skin is unbelievably sensitive
So of course I was nervous about microdermabrasion. But I went along with it, because, hey -- this aesthetician was a pro.
Well, that was my mistake. Ever since, my skin has been drier than the Sahara. I've tried serums, masks, moisturizers -- no matter what, my face just doesn't look the same. I don't know what to do.
Which brings me to my beauty question -- what do you do for really dry skin? Inquiring minds really, really want to know. Let me know your tips and tricks in the comments!
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Hair Confessional: Do You Cheat On Your Stylist?
Confession: I used to be a hair cheater. I went to different salons every time I got my hair cut or colored, trying out a new stylist every few months to see whether I could find someone better. And then my colorist, Jan-Marie Arteca, came along.
Instantly, my coloring life took a turn for the better. Gone were the days of cheating on my stylist -- because, with Jan-Marie, my color looks stunning each and every time. She continuously knows what to do with my color that punches it up, brings it new life and vibrancy, and keeps things interesting. And she's SMART. All I have to say is, "RED!" -- and Jan-Marie knows exactly what to do. Seriously, she's a color GENIUS.
Sadly, I'm not coloring my hair while I'm out of work -- gotta be able to pay my rent, after all! -- but as soon as a new job comes along, you'd better believe I'm going back to Jan-Marie for more.
To follow Jan-Marie Arteca on Twitter, click here.
The Shower Gel Journey: Peter Thomas Roth Botanical Oasis Body Wash
I don’t know why I’ve kept on using a wash rag when a new pouf was lying in the bathroom vanity. What better time to use the little green wonder than sampling Peter Thomas Roth’s Botanical Oasis Body Wash? Suds mixed with Vitamins A and E instantly led to an invigorating scent for an all-around clean result.
The ingredients’ promise to leave my skin smooth with pro vitamin B5 and chamomile did just that. I appreciate the product’s assertion that it prevents moisture loss and removes impurities. After all, I AM of a certain age!
Peter Thomas Roth initially sought to solve his own skin problems, which included acne and, of course, signs of aging. His ancestors owned spas in Hungary, employing the muds and minerals to effect results. Since 1993, the company has introduced over 100 products to address numerous skin care needs. I love that Botanical Oasis Body Wash ascribes to being “Animal Cruelty Free.”
Note: This product is no longer available.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
The Shower Gel Journey: Origins Ginger Burst Savory Body Wash

Tracing its roots to Eastern cultures, ginger is recognized for its warming abilities and power to soothe tired joints and muscles. The Origins philosophy combines ginger with other cooling herbs to evince a sense of harmony, health and happiness inside and out -- a perfect Yin and Yang.
The bottle is easy to open and hold -- no fumbling necessary! My delicate skin appreciated the lack of animal ingredients, paraffin and synthetic colors. A healthy body wash to start the day!
The results? Beautiful, silky skin.
Origins Ginger Burst Savory Body Wash is $22.50 at beauty.com.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Support Breast Cancer Awareness: Elemis Sparkling Beauty Collection
I'm about to let you in on a little secret. Every product created by Elemis is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. We're talking best you've ever tried, never found anything like it amazing. And, true to form, such is the case with the Elemis Sparkling Beauty Collection.
This limited-edition collection of skincare products is a truly indulgent treat. Open up the gorgeously wrapped pink box to discover the following amazing products:
Eau de Parfum (5ml): The line's signature scent is exuberant and aromatic, containing notes collected from across the globe for Elemis spa therapies.
Pro-Collagen Marine Cream (30ml): This moisturizer is clinically proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkles by up to 78 percent and increase hydration by up to 45 percent. No wonder it's a cult favorite.
Visible Brilliance (10ml): The double-action serum brightens dull, fatigued and stressed skin.
Cellular Recovery Skin Bliss Capsules (14 capsules): Get a powerful anti-pollution skin detox with a high concentration of antioxidants. In short? They repair visible signs of aging.
And here's the best part -- this kit retails for only $95 at timetospa.com. It's a $161 value! Your skin will be glowing in no time. Plus, from now until December 31, Elemis will donate $10 from the purchase of every kit to Living Beyond Breast Cancer.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Get Your Kicks: Converse Chuck Taylor All Stars
I have an addiction to Converse. I believe I can trace it to the many viewings of "The Sandlot" my brother and I experienced in the 90's -- watching Rodriguez lace up those High Flyers before running to stop The Beast spurred me toward owning multiple pairs in later years.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Morning Glory: Eve Lom Morning Time Cleanser
Recently, I seem to be a sucker for a new type of cleanser. Gone are the days of wetting my face before sudsing up (though, to be fair, I still do love my Dermalogica cleansers). Recently, it seems like all I do is use cleansers that are meant to be applied to the skin dry -- like Eve Lom Morning Time Cleanser.
Friday, October 15, 2010
My Favorite Products from AMOREPACIFIC -- With Video!
I had been dying to try the line AMOREPACIFIC for quite some time. When the opportunity finally came up, I was THRILLED! Check out my absolute faves in the video below!
Featured in this video:
AMOREPACIFIC Moisture Bound Refreshing Hydra-Gel ($100)
AMOREPACIFIC Treatment Cleansing Oil ($50)
AMOREPACIFIC Treatment Cleansing Tissues ($40)
My Mani for Indiana University Homecoming Weekend: Rescue Beauty Lounge Grunge
Okay, so the colors of my alma mater, Indiana University (Go Hoosiers!) are cream and crimson. And while I love those colors, I didn't really want to go all obvious and matchy-matchy with my nails for Homecoming this weekend. (As you read this, I'm on my way to the great city of Bloomington for an epic weekend with some of my besties!)
In any case, I decided to go the route of sophisticated with just a little bit of the down and dirty ... hence, Rescue Beauty Lounge Grunge. I love this polish for its gorgeous mix of taupe, khaki and mushroom hues -- it looks different in every kind of light, and just makes me feel uber-chic. I'll be cheering on my Hoosiers in style!
What's on your nails this weekend? Let me know in the comments!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
My Latest Candle Favorites
Ah, candles. I seriously don't think I could ever have enough. It seems I fall in love with a new one every single day -- though, admittedly, I do have my favorites. (Tocca Cleopatra and Diptyque Violette, anyone?) I have, however, discovered five new favorites to add to the list. Get all the details after the jump.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Support Breast Cancer Awareness: Alterna Caviar Anti-Aging Limited Edition Working Hair Spray
I went to town with this hairspray the first time I used it, spraying it all over my hair and then sleeping on it. When I woke up in the morning? Every strand was right where I left it -- and my hair was SOFT. If it's possible for a hairspray to feel like a leave-in conditioning treatment, Alterna's does the trick thanks to caviar extract and Vitamin B5.
One thing is for certain: it's never leaving my side.
Alterna Caviar Anti-Aging Limited Edition Working Hair Spray retails for $28 at sephora.com. 5 percent of proceeds from every can will be donated to The National Breast Cancer Foundation.
An Apple a Day: GO SMiLE Green Apple Toothpaste
I'm normally a Crest or Colgate girl. But when I was given the opportunity to try GO SMiLE Green Apple Luxury Fluoride Toothpaste, I jumped. After all, you know what they say: "An apple a day keeps the dentist away."
Monday, October 11, 2010
Support Breast Cancer Awareness: Decleor Rose D'Orient Try Me Kit
Your skincare routine is about to become a little more luxurious, thanks to the Decleor Rose D'Orient Try Me Kit. This kit, perfect for people with sensitive skin, includes four products guaranteed to take your regimen to the next level...
Aromessence Rose D'Orient Soothing Serum
Harmonie Gentle Soothing Cream
Aromessence Solaire
Aroma Confort Systeme Corps Moisturizing Body Milk
They come packaged in a beautiful floral-decorated box, perfect for storing your essentials.
The Decleor Rose D'Orient Try Me Kit retails for $68. 10 percent of proceeds will be donated to Cancer and Careers.
Harajuku Lovers Wicked Style: Adorableness Personified
If you're looking for fragrances that are statement makers not only for their amazing scents, but for THE MOST ADORABLE PACKAGING EVER, look no further. Harajuku Lovers Wicked Style, the latest fragrance collection from Gwen Stefani, has taken cute packaging to an entirely new level.
The limited-edition collection is inspired by the edgy, super-stylish girls of Tokyo's famous Harajuku shopping district. Each of the five bottles has a unique design, topped by oversized doll-like creations with colorful felt hairstyles! Check them all out after the jump.
Smooth Sailing: Aveda Smooth Infusion Shampoo and Conditioner
D-I-V-I-N-E: Philosophy Candy Cane
How does Philosophy do it? Seriously, every single shower gel they create smells exactly the way I picture it.
Such is the case with Candy Cane, a limited-edition 3-in-1 (shower gel, bubble bath and shampoo) launching for the holiday season. The striped bottle contains a shower gel so pepperminty fresh, it should be illegal. Seriously, one dollop of this on your pouf and you'll be hooked.
Philosophy Candy Cane retails for $16 at Sephora.
Disclosure: This product was furnished by a PR representative for Philosophy.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Support Breast Cancer Awareness: Magnolia Bakery Pink Ribbon Cupcakes
If you're looking for a way to support breast cancer awareness and eat something delicious at the same time, I've got good news for you. The Pink Ribbon Cupcake from Magnolia Bakery is utterly delectable. It comes in both chocolate and vanilla flavors, and features a sugary pink ribbon atop a bed of pink-sprinkled, fluffy frosting. And for every one sold throughout the month of October, Magnolia will donate 50 cents to the Greater NYC Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
To find a Magnolia Bakery location near you, visit magnoliabakery.com. You can also follow them on Twitter.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
The Best Kept Secret in Town: Polished Beauty Bar
Tucked away on a quiet stretch of 78th Street on the Upper West Side, Polished Beauty Bar seems at first glance like your everyday nail salon. Then you walk in the door and all thoughts of normal, ordinary nail polish stations fly right out of your head. The owner, Susan Nam, sparkles with effervescence and enthusiasm when showing you to a polish station or taking you through the collection of polish colors. Each of the technicians pays extreme attention to detail, making sure your manicure and pedicure are flawless. Not to mention the space is CLEAN. More on my experience at Polished after the jump.
As I walked through the door, Susan greeted me warmly -- like an old friend she'd known for years, immediately putting me at ease. She walked me over to the polish racks, filled with Essie and the largest selection of Zoya polishes known to (wo)man -- over 300 shades! Susan and I talked about the salon during my pedicure with Tina -- not only was it among the first to autoclave its tools after every use, but it goes through nine air cleaning steps to filter and dissolve over 90 percent of airborne chemicals.My favorite part of the pedicure was definitely the Klenz Sanitizer. While my feet were treated to a luxurious foot bath and the ultimate in buffing, scrubbing and polishing, my shoes entered a machine that rid them of odor-causing bacteria! Such a genius idea. (And, of course, the color -- Zoya Nova -- a gorgeous, sparkly mulberry pink hybrid.)
Susan herself did my manicure, which -- of course -- was flawless. I noted that the manicure was done dry, which is my preference -- many manicurists over the years have told me that water soaks into the nail and makes the polish shrink, causing chips and tip wear much faster. I was happy to see that Susan didn't soak my nails in a water bath -- and, days later, there were no chips to be found! (I chose Zoya Whitney, which you can see at the top of the story.)
Polished Beauty Bar is located at 250 West 78th Street in New York. To book an appointment, call 212-933-1830. You can also follow them on Twitter.
Disclosure: My manicure and pedicure were provided free of charge for editorial consideration.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Salon and Spa Directory: The Redken Chemistry Treatment at Angelo David Salon
My hair was in pretty dire straits when I walked into Angelo David Salon. Not only did the combination of humidity and rain mean my locks were -- there's no way around it -- HUGE, but weeks without a hair treatment or mask left them looking lackluster and dry. Thankfully, the Redken Chemistry Treatment set my tresses straight.
My favorite part about this treatment is that it's customized to your hair texture. It includes a shampoo, mask and sealant that can add moisture or protein, extend the life and vibrancy of your hair color, transform dry or brittle hair, add body and volume, or reduce frizz. Which one do you think I went for? If you guessed reduce frizz, you're right!
At the end of the treatment, not only was my hair softer and shinier than before, but it was so, SO silky. I was amazed at how lustrous it appeared after just 20 minutes!
For more information about the services Angelo David offers, click here.
Head of the Class: Mine Design Green Chalkboard Candle
I was never one for art projects -- sadly, my creativity never included drawing -- but the Mine Design Green Chalkboard Candle is just too cool for me to pass up. The holder is crafted from green ceramic that can actually be drawn on! So cool, right? The candle even comes with chalk for your drawing fancies.
Choose from two scents -- Belgian Berry or Persian Fig -- each of which smell absolutely divine. The candle burns for 35-40 hours, after which you've just got a funpot to showcase your latest work of art.
The Mine Design Green Chalkboard Candle retails for $24 at minedesigncandles.com.
A Treat from the Dead Sea: AHAVA Mineral Eye Cream
During my trip to Israel back in December, one of the highlights was definitely visiting the Dead Sea. For years, I'd heard that it's impossible to sink -- that one will just float, no matter how hard you try to reach the bottom. And until I experienced it for myself, I just didn't understand how this was possible. But once I waded in, I discovered that this was in fact the case! Truly unbelievable.
Also unbelievable ... the AHAVA store set back from the beach. I'd seen AHAVA products before, I'd tried them before -- but, let's be honest, there's nothing like buying them in ISRAEL. I restrained myself and only bought a couple products, among them the AHAVA Mineral Eye Cream.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Enjoy the Show: KEVIN.MURPHY The Showgirl Must Go On
I’m always wary of introducing new products into my haircare routine, as my tresses are fairly difficult to manage even when I’m using tried and true products. But recently, I discovered KEVIN.MURPHY -- and I haven’t looked back since.
I’ve been using The Showgirl Must Go On, a holiday gift set that includes Hydrate Me Wash and Hydrate Me Rinse. These products are perfect for my overworked, dry, coarse strands. I love the packaging – the square-shaped bottles stand perfectly upon my shower ledge, and the openings on the sides just make these stand out from the crowd.
I was pleasantly surprised by the texture of both the shampoo and conditioner. The shampoo is thick and creamy, almost like the feel of a conditioner. Meanwhile, the conditioner is so thick and rich, it resembles a hair mask. The end result? My locks are smooth, glossy and SHINING.
Unfortunately, this product is no longer available.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Support Breast Cancer Awareness: Deborah Lippmann Shape of My Heart
Throughout the month of October, I will be featuring products with proceeds going toward various breast cancer awareness charities.
I'm not normally one for pale pink nail polish -- but in the case of Deborah Lippmann Shape Of My Heart, I'll make an exception. I love the creamy texture and the rich opacity of the pastel hue -- it's actually not like any other polish in my collection.
Seen here with three thin coats. This is on day four -- and not even a hint of tip wear!
Deborah Lippmann Shape of My Heart retails for $17 at beauty.com. A portion of proceeds from each sale will be donated to the Hoag Hospital Breast Cancer Center.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Support Breast Cancer Awareness: Archipelago Botanicals Ribbons of Love Travel Tin
Throughout the month of October, I will be featuring products with proceeds going toward various breast cancer awareness charities.
A blend of grapefruit, clementine and pomelo wafts delicately through the air, leaving behind an aroma so sensuous and delicious, it's tough not to pick the Archipelago Botanicals Ribbons of Love Travel Tin up and eat it.
Seriously, it smells amazing. The pale pink tin looks beautiful atop any vanity or coffee table. And it burns for around 55 hours!
Archipelago Botanicals will donate 50 percent of web sales to The City of Hope.
Note: This candle is no longer available.
Monday, October 4, 2010
High on the Adorable Scale: ModCloth I'm a Little Teapot
Okay, seriously -- have you ever seen anything cuter in your entire life? I'm not even the biggest tea drinker in the world, but I'm fairly certain I'm a Little Teapot will make me start.
Not only is this teapot inspired by Little Red Riding Hood -- complete with miniature basket! -- but it includes the pot, a tea cup and a removable diffuser.
Best of all, it's only $44.99 at modcloth.com. Something tells me I'm going to start drinking a lot of tea!
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Lip Service: M.A.C Viva Glam Cyndi Lipglass
The perfect coral-pink-peach hybrid? M.A.C Viva Glam Cyndi Lipglass. I was already a fan of the lipstick, so it only stands to reason that the Lipglass wouldn’t be far behind.
My favorite feature is definitely the color payoff. Only a few swipes with the brush and your lips are drenched in peachy-pink goodness. It also seems less tacky than some of the other M.A.C Lipglasses -- it almost feels like a lipstick instead of a gloss.
But hey, at the end of the day, I’ll take any chance I get to feel like Cyndi Lauper for a day!
M.A.C Viva Glam Cyndi Lipglass retails for $14.50 at maccosmetics.com.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Support Breast Cancer Awareness: Philosophy Shower for the Cure
Throughout the month of October, I will be featuring products with proceeds going toward various breast cancer awareness charities.
As if the fabulously creamy texture weren't enough, Philosophy Shower for the Cure smells amazing. I'm a huge fan of Philosophy shower gels in general -- my dream shower would have every single one lining the rim -- but this one is currently at the top of my list. Milky notes combine with tangerine nectar for a lush, delightfully rich aroma that lasts for hours but never feels cloying.
Philosophy Shower for the Cure is $20. 100 percent of the proceeds will go to the Women's Cancer Research Fund.
Note: This product is no longer available.