First Look Fridays: Makeup Artist Jamie Greenberg

Well, obviously I would be drawn to a makeup artist named Jamie! Jamie Greenberg has worked with a multitude of young celebrities in Hollywood, from Glee's Chris Colfer to Katharine MacPhee and Becki Newton. Read on to discover which eyeliner brush is her favorite, why she loves working with mark., and so much more!

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Chanel Gold Fiction + Deborah Lippmann Razzle Dazzle + Zoya Dakota = My AMAZING NYE Mani!

Okay, my manicure for New Year's Eve is OFF. THE. CHAIN. I went to Polished Beauty Bar today for a visit with my gal Susan Nam, and said I wanted to do something fun for my New Year's mani. I brought out my beloved Chanel Gold Fiction and my new bottle of Deborah Lippmann Razzle Dazzle, and immediately Susan said, "Moon mani?"

I was all for it, so she went to work -- incorporating a coat of Zoya Dakota underneath Razzle Dazzle for extra depth -- and all I can say is WOW.

I am absolutely LOVING this manicure! It's got just the right amount of bling to ring in the new year in style. Susan is a total genius ... especially since this was done completely freehand!

What's on your nails for NYE? Let me know in the comments!

Your New Best Friend for New Year's: Hollywood Fashion Tape Hollywood CoverUps

Want to make sure you don't have an "oops" moment on New Year's Eve? You'd better invest in a pair of Hollywood Fashion Tape Hollywood CoverUps, stat!

Seriously, these contoured silicone nipple covers are the perfect answer to that slinky, sexy NYE dress that makes wearing a bra impossible. Remove the plastic covering, place over the area you need to cover, and voila! No unsightly nipple action going on when the ball drops!

And even better? You can use them up to 10 times! Simply wash in warm water, dry and store in the reusable container for future use.

Hollywood Fashion Tape Hollywood CoverUps retail for $14.99 at hollywoodfashiontape.com.

BeautyChick Bests 2010: The Body Edition

Now that the year is coming to a close, I thought it only right that I bring you a roundup of my favorite products from the past year! So, without further ado ... introducing BeautyChick Bests! I'll be doing videos throughout the next week detailing all the launches this year that got my pulse racing.

So do you want to know what my favorite body products for the year were? Watch my video to find out!



Seen in this video:

Philosophy Candy Cane Foaming Bubble Bath and Shower Gel ($16)
Philosophy The Gingerbread Girl Shower Gel ($13)
Sara Happ The Body Scrub in Vanilla Bean, 10.1 oz ($46)
Balenciaga Black Body Scrub
L'Occitane Vineyard Rose Pure Shea Butter

The Beauty of Life Exclusive! Interview with TRON: Legacy Makeup Artist Rosalina Da Silva

Have you seen the new TRON: Legacy movie yet? I went on opening weekend, and let me tell you -- while I thought the story was just okay, I fell head over heels for the makeup. The gorgeous smoky eyes seen on everyone from Olivia Wilde to Michael Sheen really got this beauty chick's pulse racing! Imagine my shock and delight when I stayed to watch the credits and discovered that Rosalina Da Silva, whom I had interviewed for First Look Fridays back in 2008, was the key makeup artist! I immediately emailed her and begged for an exclusive on her looks for the movie, and she happily obliged. Check out my exclusive interview with Rosalina about her looks for TRON: Legacy after the jump!

How did you come up with the concept for each of the characters? Was this a group effort among hair, costumes and makeup?
The final look is always a group effort ... but in the meanwhile we all went to our own "corners" and tried to create a look that somehow explained the world of TRON. I worked very closely with the hairdresser, Anji Benben.

In my mind the makeup was going to be monochromatic and dramatic. I wanted the characters to be believable on those sets, to look like they were created in there.

Let's talk about the amazing smoky eye you created for Olivia Wilde and Beau Garrett. How did you create each of these looks?
Both women are gorgeous and have beautiful eyes. The absence of any other color gave me great freedom to work with the eyes and enhance them as much as possible.

With Olivia, the key for the look was: blend, blend, blend! I used M.A.C Smolder Eye Kohl, blended around the base of the lashes, up and out. [I created] a contour line with Naturalism and M.A.C Paint Pots. (The reason for the Paint Pots was their durability -- long hours on set under sometimes very warm conditions for the actors.) Bare Canvas and Bare Study as highlighters.

Beau's character was better described as "sexy, rocker chick on the grid." I used M.A.C Blacktrack Fluidline and Blackground Paint Pot. I always like to powder a cream or fluid liner with a shadow of the same shade. I pressed in the color with a short fluffy brush to intensify the hues, again both of these products stood the test of time. [I followed with] three sets of lashes -- I wanted the eyes to really stand out, make them appear bigger ... doll-like eyes with the amazing contact lenses. And very luminous skin.

I loved Michael Sheen's smoky eye. What products did you use to create it?
Michael Sheen's look was Ziggy Stardust inspired. His character was the only one with color (blue) incorporated in the makeup, it was on purpose. Castor is out of this world, funny, theatrical and very flamboyant -- I wanted the makeup to showcase that. We bleached the brows and gave him a smokey eye to enhance his own eyes, following the makeup trend by the sexy people of the grid.

To create the look, I used the following products:
M.A.C Freshwater and Tilt Eyeshadows
M.A.C Knight Divine and Black Fluidliner in the eye contours
Bobbi Brown Snow Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow, Tarte Grace Bay Eyeshadow Duo and M.A.C Blackground Paint Pot in the crease under the eye
M.A.C Tin Tin Eye Kohl in the inner corners
Kevyn Aucoin Golden Sunrise Lip Pencil and M.A.C Frost Frame on the lips

What are your tips for creating the perfect smoky eye?
I love M.A.C Smolder Eye Kohl for the smoky eye, that's what I used on Olivia. I prep the eye lids well with a good primer, powder and start with a neutral eyeshadow. Good application tools are essential -- if you have the right brush for your eye shape, you'll achieve the look you want with the right amount of color and depth. Keep it clean and sexy. Applying a black pencil in and among your top and bottom lashes top and bottom adds a very sultry look to the eyes.

How could the everyday woman translate these heavy smoky eyes to her life?
A softer version of these looks can be worn by any young woman that's hitting the nightclub, or even some may be able to wear it full strength. The looks look more exaggerated because of the skin tone being so pale.

Any other go-to products on set that you just couldn't live without?
1) Most of all I would say that good skin, well hydrated, a natural glow is your best "makeup."

2) M.A.C tinted moisturizer with SPF is a must.
3) Primers for the eyes and face make sure that the makeup stays on all day looking flawless.

4) M.A.C Opulash mascara

5) Eyelash curler -- don't go anywhere without it.

6) LiftFusion lip moisturizer -- keeps them full and me fooled into thinking I have fuller lips!

Thanks so much to Rosalina Da Silva for granting this exclusive interview to The Beauty of Life. And if you want to get even more amazing tips from Rosalina, be sure to check out her blog A More Beautiful Makeup. You can also follow her on Twitter here.

BeautyChick Bests 2010: The Skincare Edition

Now that the year is coming to a close, I thought it only right that I bring you a roundup of my favorite products from the past year! So, without further ado ... introducing BeautyChick Bests! I'll be doing videos throughout the next week detailing all the launches this year that got my pulse racing.

So do you want to know what my favorite skincare products for the year were? Watch my video to find out!



Seen in this video:

Clinique All About Eyes Serum De-Puffing Eye Massage ($28)
M.A.C Fix+ Lavender
Estee Lauder Re-Nutriv Intensive Smoothing Hand Creme
Tweezerman Betsey Johnson Slant Tweezer Collection Skulls ($25)
Clarins Bright Plus HP Intensive Brightening Smoothing Serum ($68)
Kiehl's Photo-Age Corrector High-Potency Spot Treatment
Super by Perricone Super Lush Lips with Coconut Oil 0.5 oz ($20)
Yes to Blueberries Age Refresh Intensive Skin Repair Serum ($19.99)
Dermalogica AGE Reversal Eye Complex ($75)
Bulgari Source Defense Cellular Antioxidant Cream

BeautyChick Bests 2010: The Hair Edition

Now that the year is coming to a close, I thought it only right that I bring you a roundup of my favorite products from the past year! So, without further ado ... introducing BeautyChick Bests! I'll be doing videos throughout the next week detailing all the launches this year that got my pulse racing.

So do you want to know what my favorite hair products for the year were? Watch my video to find out!



Seen in this video:

Philip B. Russian Amber Imperial Conditioning Creme
Pantene Medium-Thick Hair Solutions Silkening Detangler ($3.39)
Pantene Color Hair Solutions Color Preserve Shine Conditioner ($4.99)
Pantene Color Hair Solutions Color Preserve Shine Shampoo ($4.24)
Kerastase Elixir Ultime
T3 ManeTamer Unruly Hair Straightener ($200)
Living Proof Straight Making No Frizz Styling Cream for Medium to Thick Hair ($24)

BeautyChick Bests 2010: The Nail Polish Edition

Now that the year is coming to a close, I thought it only right that I bring you a roundup of my favorite products from the past year! So, without further ado ... introducing BeautyChick Bests! I'll be doing videos throughout the next week detailing all the launches this year that got my pulse racing.

So do you want to know what my favorite nail polishes for the year were? Watch my video to find out!



Seen in this video:

butter LONDON All Hail McQueen -- this is now All Hail The Queen, but was originally All Hail McQueen! ($14)
butter LONDON Victoriana ($14)
Chanel Nouvelle Vague
Chanel Illusion D'Or
Deborah Lippmann Bad Romance ($18)
Deborah Lippmann Boom Boom Pow ($20)
M.A.C So Rich, So Pretty
M.A.C Morning After
M.A.C Blue India
OPI Jade is the New Black
Dior Timeless Gold
YSL (no name on the bottle!)
China Glaze Party Hearty
Essie Winter Collection

BeautyChick Bests 2010: The Makeup Edition

Now that the year is coming to a close, I thought it only right that I bring you a roundup of my favorite products from the past year! So, without further ado ... introducing BeautyChick Bests! I'll be doing videos throughout the next week detailing all the launches this year that got my pulse racing.

So do you want to know what my favorite makeup products for the year were? Watch my video to find out!



Seen in this video:

M.A.C Tartan Tale Palette
M.A.C Venomous Villains DeVil Eyeshadow
M.A.C Venomous Villains Lipglass in Wicked Ways
M.A.C Venomous Villains Lipglass in Devlishly Stylish
M.A.C Venomous Villains My Dark Magic Mineralize Palette
M.A.C Haute & Naughty Lash Mascara
Maybelline Volum' Express The Falsies Mascara ($7.50)
M.A.C Viva Glam Cyndi Lipglass
Physicians Formula Brown Eyes Custom Eye Enhancing Gel Cream Liner Trio
La Prairie Lip Color Effects in Quiet Fig
Bobbi Brown Black Velvet Eyeshadow (sold out, similar colors available here)
Urban Decay Little Sins Eyeshadow Primer Potion Set (no longer available, but full sizes available here)

Video Review: Davines Alchemic Red Shampoo and Conditioner

My red hair is looking totally amazing, thanks to Davines Alchemic Red Shampoo and Conditioner! Check out my video to see why.



The Alchemic Shampoo in Red is $24 and the Conditioner in Red is $28. Visit davines.com for salon and store information.

Mani of the Week: Essie Chinchilly

What an oldie but goodie! I am totally, completely, head over heels in love with Essie Chinchilly. This polish was originally created for the Fall 2009 collection, and quickly became a classic due to the creamy, pale grey hue. I absolutely love this color, and if I didn't like to change up my nails at least once a week, it's one I would paint them with time and time again!

What's on your nails this week? Let me know in the comments!

Essie Chinchilly retails for $8 at beauty.com.

Sponsored Post: NIOXIN Thinning Hair System 7 Kit

I wish you could feel how soft my hair is as I type this. The Nioxin Thinning Hair System 7 Kit has quite literally changed my life.

Now, people wouldn't normally know this when they look at my hair, because I blowdry and flat iron it to within an inch of its life. But my hair is THICK and COARSE. (I typed these words in all caps for extra emphasis on this point.) Without at least two conditioners (a rinse out and a leave in), I can't even get my fingers through my tresses -- they just get stuck near the roots! But thanks to this incredible 3-piece hair system, my strands are singing a different tune.

The Cleanser (shampoo), Scalp Therapy (conditioner) and Scalp Activating Treatment in this kit are all formulated for chemically enhanced, normal to thin hair. There are 8 systems to choose from altogether, and all contain the following five elements:

1) Reduce hair breakage
2) Deliver denser-looking hair
3) Amplify hair texture
4) Strengthen hair against cuticle damage
5) Cleanse excessive sebum from the scalp

These three products are specifically formulated with SmoothPlex, a patented blend of silk amino acids and kukui nut oil for moisture, shine and control; Glyco-Color Shield, which safeguards the scalp against chemical services and preserves hair color; and the Transactive Delivery System, a time-released delivery system that provides antioxidants to the hair and scalp and creates an environment for healthy, full hair.

Thanks to this amazing system, my tresses are healthy, nourished and SHINY. No coarseness or dryness in sight!

The NIOXIN Thinning Hair System 7 Kit retails for $39.99 and is available exclusively in salons and spas nationwide. For more information or to locate the nearest NIOXIN salon, call 1-800-628-9890 or visit nioxin.com.

This post was sponsored by NIOXIN. Products were provided for review.

The Best of Beauty: October 2010

Throughout the next 12 days, I'll be giving you a look back at some of my favorite posts from the past year. Check out October after the jump!

I gave my lips a true treat when I slicked on M.A.C Viva Glam Cyndi Lipglass.

The show(girl) must go on ... so says Kevin.Murphy, and with this hair kit, I most certainly agree!

During a trip to Israel last December, I purchased the AHAVA Mineral Eye Cream -- at the Dead Sea!! I finally got around to reviewing it here.

Make this candle from Mine Design your own by drawing on the chalkboard-like surface with the included chalk!

I'm hesitant to share such a best-kept secret with you for fear of it becoming overrun ... but Polished Beauty Bar is just too amazing to keep to myself.

Aveda really outdid themselves with the invention of Smooth Infusion Shampoo and Conditioner.

And the most adorable fragrance award goes to ... Harajuku Lovers Wicked Style.

If you're sick of reaching for boring old Crest or Colgate, why not try GoSMILE Green Apple Toothpaste?

If perfection in a nude polish exists, it's most certainly Rescue Beauty Lounge Grunge.

I fell in love with AMOREPACIFIC this year. Check out my video to see why.

October saw a new writer introduced to The Beauty of Life -- my mom! Check out her very first post here.

How do you cure really dry skin? I asked you to weigh in with your remedies.

You know what I love about Zoya Roxy? Everything.

If you're looking for a moisturizer that repairs, renews and nourishes skin to the fullest, you definitely need to check out Bulgari Gem Essence Source Defense Cellular Antioxidant Cream.

I met celebrity stylist Phillip Bloch! He was awesome.

Sponsored Post: Glamorous Holiday Beauty Looks with P&G Beauty and Grooming!

If you’re like me, you look forward to the holidays not only because of the presents given and received or the time spent with family ... but because it’s the absolute perfect time to get glamorous. For some reason, December is the only month where it’s acceptable to show up to work on a Tuesday with a red lip, amazing updo or sequined cocktail frock -- because all you have to say is, “I’m going to a holiday party after work.” (Truth be told, I wish EVERY month were December for this very reason. People just think I’m weird if I do this in March.)

So it comes as no surprise that I’m in love with products from P&G Beauty and Grooming that give women the fabulously glamorous edge they need to be the best-looking one at any holiday shindig. Turn to CoverGirl, Olay, Clairol and Pantene -- brands with products you can depend on to look fabulous for any occasion, planned or impromptu!


If the holiday parties are starting to make your eyes look a little too tired, reach for Olay Regenerist Anti-Aging Eye Roller. This anti-aging treatment features a pen-shaped applicator that gently massages skin to fight the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes. AND, it reduces puffiness in only 30 seconds -- so your eyes will be fresh, radiant and rejuvenated as you’re rushing from one party to the next!

Need to look beautiful at a moment’s notice? CoverGirl Simply Ageless Foundation is your new best friend. Thanks to the lightweight, buildable formula, it goes on sheer and provides a flawless finish without settling into fine lines throughout the day. It even works to improve skin condition with continued use!

Hair color is one of my most time-honored traditions, but at the holidays, it’s a bit tough to squeeze in a long color appointment at the salon. That’s where Clairol Perfect 10 by Nice ‘n Easy comes in handy! In just 10 minutes, hair is glossy, shiny and absolutely gorgeous. And, thankfully, it delivers 100 percent, long-lasting grey coverage -- perfect since I’ve begun to (gasp!) find greys among my newly red strands.

And if your locks are looking frizzier and drier than normal? No need to fear -- just reach for Pantene Pro-V Restore Beautiful Lengths Shine Enhance Replenishing Mask. The advanced formula treats rough, dull hair and leaves it looking smooth, silky and, yes, exactly like a Pantene commercial.

All of these products are available at drugstores and mass market retailers nationwide.

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by P&G Beauty and Grooming.

The Best of Beauty: September 2010

Throughout the next 12 days, I'll be giving you a look back at some of my favorite posts from the past year. Check out September after the jump!
I'm a huge fan of cleansing waters -- and La Prairie Cellular Cleansing Water really is incredible!

My lashes got a real treat when I discovered L'Oreal Double Extend Lash Boosting Mascara.

The perfect purple nail polish? Essie Island Hopping.

My jewelry collection certainly got a lot more interesting with additions from Sweetie Pie Jewelry and Sorrelli.

As Rosh Hashanah approached in September, I celebrated by bringing you a selection of the best apples and honey beauty products.

I'm a candle fiend -- as any regular readers of this blog would know! I was super excited to discover the delightful Skeem Candles this year.

Give your nails a blingy touch with Deborah Lippmann Marquee Moon.

Cleansing wipes might just be one of my very favorite beauty inventions. At the top of my list? Ole Henriksen Truth To Go Wipes.

I never turn down a little sparkle ... especially in the form of shoes by Miu Miu, Derek Lam, Giuseppe Zanotti and more.

The nail polish duo done right? CND Night Factory.

The Best of Beauty: August 2010

Throughout the next 12 days, I'll be giving you a look back at some of my favorite posts from the past year. Check out August after the jump!

Throughout the month of August, I tried a bunch of citrus products for my series dedicated to the best of the best citrusy scents. I kicked it off with a tried and true fave, Philosophy Senorita Margarita!

I'm a firm believer in buying multiples when you find a piece that works. And the All Saints Kinji Dress is so amazing, I have in grey AND in white.

I tend to stay away from aviator sunglasses, but this pair from Marc by Marc Jacobs is truly amazing.

The absolute best base coat? Hands down, it's CND Stickey.

If you're looking for a brow technician who really knows her stuff, head to Bella at Bliss Spa. Perfection.

Do you like your freckles? I asked you to weigh in.

Is it grey? Is it blue? Does it matter when M.A.C Give Me Liberty of London Blue India Nail Lacquer is this gorgeous?

Have you heard of the wonder that is Twittabling? Seriously, it's the next big thing.

Continuing in my quest to find the best citrus products, I snapped up masterpieces by Darphin, Bobbi Brown and Mario Badescu.

I came up with quite the intense nighttime skincare regimen that really and truly works. Get a peek at it with my video!

Oh, butter LONDON. Your fall collection BLEW. ME. AWAY.

One of my all-time favorite products is Smith's Rosebud Salve. And my life was MADE this year when they finally put it in tube form!

The Best of Beauty: July 2010

Throughout the next 12 days, I'll be giving you a look back at some of my favorite posts from the past year. Check out July after the jump!

I went for a tougher look than usual with one of my OOTDs -- thanks, in part, to my FABULOUS Marc by Marc Jacobs leather jacket.

If you're over 30 -- heck, if you're over 22 -- you've probably gotten the "Why are you still single?" comment at least once. I weigh in on that horrible phenomenon here.

During a trip home in July, I had a real blast from the past -- pins and nail polishes from my teen years!

Conditioner as shave gel? Lip balm as cuticle cream? I give you the inside scoop on the best unconventional uses for your favorite beauty products.

Tired, puffy, otherwise unsightly eyes? (Pardon the pun.) The Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Eye Mask comes to the rescue!

A major coup: I interviewed designer Rebecca Minkoff!

I hate the term "mannequin hands" ... but if you're looking for the perfect nude nail polish, Deborah Lippmann Fashion is IT.

A beauty ritual brought to you by the color green.

The Best Hand Soaps: Crabtree & Evelyn India Hicks Island Living Spider Lily Hand Wash

I've always been a fan of luxury hand soaps. Not that there's anything wrong with Softsoap or Dove, but once in awhile a girl's gotta wash up with something a bit more fabulous! So I'm introducing a new series with some of my very favorite hand soaps -- check out Crabtree & Evelyn India Hicks Island Living Spider Lily Hand Wash after the jump.

Wow, say that name three times fast! The Crabtree & Evelyn India Hicks Island Living Spider Lily Hand Wash may be a mouthful, but you know what? I'll put up with it, because this hand soap is divine.

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The Best of Beauty: June 2010

Throughout the next 12 days, I'll be giving you a look back at some of my favorite posts from the past year. Check out June after the jump!



Hand cream and a lip balm in one? With Votre Vu Duette, anything is possible.

Do you combine candle scents? I'm a major combiner -- usually lighting at least three at once! What's your candle lighting regimen?

June saw one of my very favorite jewelry designers come into my collection ... the amazing, unbelievable Alexis Bittar. Check out my video detailing what I bought!

I decided to do an OOTD where I played with proportion. Still not sure if it really worked all these months later!

Best nail polish color of 2010? Hands down, OPI Jade is the New Black.

Curious about the products inside my vanity? I gave you a peek inside with a short video!

Do you have a shower ritual? I sure do, and it's all pink!

So I gave you a peek inside my vanity ... and then I got inspired to give you a peek inside my shower, too!

Truth be told, I've always wanted to play Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz. Well, with Deborah Lippmann Ruby Red Slippers on my toes, I'm halfway there!

This year was traumatic for me in a few ways ... one of them being the fact that I got the worst haircut ever.

What's better than sparkly Deborah Lippmann Happy Birthday and creamy OPI Jade is the New Black on their own? Combining them, of course!

Mani of the Week: China Glaze Emerald Sparkle

Do you ever feel like there are so many nail polishes, so little time? I definitely feel like that. Right now I've got at least 200 unused bottles in my stash, just waiting to be broken out and tested. And that's not counting the 200+ bottles I've already tried, approved and put into my color-coded bins for safekeeping!

I mention this because my influx of nail polishes has meant that, as much as I've been wanting to paint my nails with the gorgeousness that is China Glaze Emerald Sparkle for just about two years now, I never got around to it. I bought this polish back during the holiday season of 2008 when it was part of China Glaze's Sleigh Ride trio. I fell passionately, madly, deeply in love with this aptly named emerald green before I even had the bottle in my possession -- a love affair that quickly deepened once I held it in my hands.

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The Best of Beauty: May 2010

Throughout the next 12 days, I'll be giving you a look back at some of my favorite posts from the past year. Check out May after the jump!



Want the best, most grueling workout of your life? Look no further than Core Fusion. After the retreat Kripalu with founders Fred DeVito and Elisabeth Halfpapp, I'm a total junkie.

You won't often find me spending $60+ on a single candle. But when it comes to BURN, all my spending policies go out the window.

Have you ever tried sheet masks? They're pretty genius. In fact, I dedicated a whole series to them. Here's the first post.

If my life were perfect, I'd own every single Rebecca Minkoff bag. Luckily, I scored a few amazing finds at her semiannual sample sale.

In May, I met my soul mate. No, not a guy. It's the Clarisonic Mia. Love at first vibration.

The genius behind Rihanna's nails? None other than celebrity manicurist Kimmie Kyees. Check out my interview with her!

I always doubted the value of the Tide To Go Pen. But once I saw it work its magic on silk, I was hooked.

The best in the nails business? Hands (and feet) down, it's Jin Soon. My "Spirit of the Beehive" pedicure certainly was divine.

I started doing video posts in May of this year! My very first one? A haul of the day featuring DVF and Chanel.

This was a nails-heavy month! I was thrilled and honored to feature the founder of one of my very favorite nail lines, butter LONDON -- the super fabulous Nonie Creme.

The eyeshadow that's gotten me noticed more than any other this year? It's part of the glamtastic Stila Jeweled Eye Shadow Palette.

The Best of Beauty: April 2010

Throughout the next 12 days, I'll be giving you a look back at some of my favorite posts from the past year. Check out April after the jump!



In my eyes, it really doesn't get much better than Rebecca Minkoff. So when I had the chance to attend her Fall 2010 preview, I certainly jumped at it!

I brightened up my nails -- and, for that matter, my whole outlook! -- when I painted my nails with Chanel Nouvelle Vague.

If you're looking for the perfect mix of rose and plum for your next manicure, I've found it: Essie Neo Whimsical.

The name was, admittedly, a bit off-putting at first. But Supergoop! ended up changing my life!

I love a good rollerball, so when I came across the Clinique All About Eyes Serum De-Puffing Eye Massage ... well, it was love at first sight.

Want a makeup artist who knows her stuff backwards and forwards? You've GOT to read my interview series with M.A.C Senior Makeup Artist Keri Blair. Here's a peek at the first one.

Be still my beating heart, because the Tocca Montauk Candle stole it right out of my chest.

Blowing bubbles is one of my favorite pastimes. Is it any wonder that I would gravitate toward the R.J. Graziano Clear Lucite Bubble Necklace?

It's a bird, it's a plane, it's ... the Eve Lom Rescue Mask!

While I don't do OOTDs (AKA Outfit of the Days) that often, I really did enjoy my very first one!

My greatest coup? Interviewing colorist to the stars Kim Vo. He. Is. Everything.

The Best of Beauty: March 2010

Throughout the next 12 days, I'll be giving you a look back at some of my favorite posts from the past year. Check out March after the jump!



It took me about 2 years, but I finally caved and bought Rescue Beauty Lounge Recycle -- the most perfect green nail polish EVER.

The perfect pink lipgloss? NARS Easy Lover.

While I don't always use a serum -- truth be told, they feel a bit extraneous to me in a skincare routine -- Kate Somerville HydraKate Line Release Face Serum sure had me changing my tune.

Your tired, puffy eyes will thank you when you try Kiehl's Facial Fuel Eye De-Puffer.

Have you tried acupuncture? I asked you to weigh in with your thoughts on the procedure.

What are your top 5 favorite products of all time? Mine are by Estee Lauder, Tocca, Chanel, Ralph Lauren and T3.

Pesky pimples be gone! I finally found a solution that really and truly works: Mario Badescu Drying Lotion.

There were a lot of really amazing fragrance launches during the past year. My favorites of the moment included picks by Balenciaga, Donna Karan, D&G and Prada.

Unsure of how to find the right foundation? Never fear! Director of Makeup Artistry for M.A.C Cosmetics, the incomparable Gregory Arlt, gave me some fabulous tips for finding the perfect foundation at Fashion Week.

The Best of Beauty: February 2010

Throughout the next 12 days, I'll be giving you a look back at some of my favorite posts from the past year. Check out February after the jump!



Bibbidi, Bobbidi, Boo! On a trip to Walt Disney World on my 30th birthday, I decided to feel like a princess with a trip to the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique inside Cinderella's castle. (See picture above of the finished look!)

Since becoming a world traveler (well, going to London, Paris and Israel, anyway), I decided it was high time I had a chic passport case to accompany my travels. Luckily, the Hayden-Harnett Multi-Function Case does the trick.

Glampires. Otherwise known as glamorous vampires. Otherwise known as the amazing look my fave makeup artist and Twitter bestie (AKA Twestie) Gregory Arlt created for the Georges Chakra show at Fashion Week.

I'm terrible at applying false eyelashes. Luckily, I picked up a few tips from makeup artist James Kaliardos at Fashion Week.

My favorite nail polish of all time? Deborah Lippmann Believe, without a doubt.

Having great skin is one of my lots in life. I don't want to brag, but it's true. But I do still need help from time to time ... and that's where SK-II Skin Signature 3D Refining Mask comes in handy.

A slick lipgloss in a pencil? Lipstick Queen Chinatown Glossy Pencil in Chase is one of the most ingenious inventions I've ever seen.

Since Stella McCartney Stella is one of my all-time favorite fragrances, I thought it only fitting to try the solid perfume necklace with the intoxicating scent. Needless to say, I became hooked immediately.

First Look Fridays: Hairstylist Andeen Rose-Clark

Eva Longoria, Celine Dion and Mandy Moore are just a few of the celebrities who count Andeen Rose-Clark among the talented hairstylists who've created their gorgeous looks. Andeen has been around the beauty scene in Las Vegas for years, working everywhere from WYNN to Ceasars Palace. And now she's starting a new position as the Salon Manger and Stylist at Violet Hour, opening in Vegas on December 15. Read on to discover how she got started in the industry, why she loves boar bristle brushes and so much more.

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The Shower Gel Journey: Kai Body Wash

I never like to use up a product that I really like, but that’s what’s happening with Kai Body Wash. The bottle is already half empty -- or half full, if you’re so inclined to optimism. I’m not overpowered by a strong fragrance. Instead, I’m bathed in a luxurious, creamy foam with a gentle scent that delivers a boost to the beginning of my day. The ingredients contain extracts of comfrey, cucumber and ivy and combine for just the right essence.

Kai products really look out for your skin. No sulfates. No parabens. They’re made in the United States and packaged in recyclable materials. As the Kai Body Wash container asserts: a light blend of natural essences and exotic perfumes, in a naturally hydrating and cleansing body wash.

I guess that I could stop using Kai to make it last longer -- but I just can’t!

Kai Body Wash retails for $33 at b-glowing.com.

The Best of Beauty: January 2010

Throughout the next 12 days, I'll be giving you a look back at some of my favorite posts from the past year. Check out January after the jump!



I discovered the fountain of youth when Talika Eye Decompress came into my life. Part science experiment, part skincare miracle, this eye mask is really like no other on the market.

New Yorkers, listen up. If you haven't been to Blow for a blowout yet, you're really missing out.

Oh, the T3 Medium Duality. How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.

One of my favorite fragrance launches of this past year? Most definitely the DKNY Delicious Candy Apples Fragrance Collection. Seriously, I've never seen anything tastier.

Lashes so long they hit my glasses? Short of extensions, I'm turning to Dior DiorShow Extase Mascara.

Decadent. Indulgent. Divine. All words I could use to describe the Diptyque Baies Candle ... and, for that matter, every candle Diptyque makes.

Straight, smooth locks that don't need a flat iron? Impossible, I thought ... until I turned to my gal Jan-Marie Arteca at the Ted Gibson Salon for La Brasiliana.

The Shower Gel Journey: Dermalogica Conditioning Body Wash

How many times have you been told: “It’s good for you”? I didn’t know that would be the case until I showered with Dermalogica Conditioning Body Wash. No soapy residue -- just clean, fragrant skin ready to brave the elements. Let your body bask in this special body cleanser comprised of tea tree, lemon, eucalyptus and rosemary oils.

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What's Your Beauty Indulgence? Beauty Writer Melissa Schweiger Fills Us In.

The What's Your Beauty Indulgence? series gives you an inside look into the products that my fellow industry insiders hold in highest regard. Be it a moisturizer or a lipgloss, a styling tool or a candle, these products aren't to be missed.

If you want to know about all things beauty, you go to Melissa Schweiger. As the author of Sephora: The Ultimate Guide to Makeup, Skin, and Hair from the Beauty Authority, she really knows her stuff backwards and forwards! Not to mention she is sweet, smart and a super talented writer. Check out her biggest beauty indulgence, in her own words.

My biggest beauty indulgence is Skyn Iceland Pure Cloud Cream. My skin takes a massive beating every day -- from the questionable city air to the usual stress of trying to juggle a million things. I can almost hear my skin say 'aaaahhhhh' when I apply this cream every night. Its spongy, cloud-like texture and soothing, good-for-your-skin ingred[ient]s are totally worth the price tag. This is one addiction I won't be giving up anytime soon!

Tom Ford Thinks Plus-Sized Women Should Go Naked.

According to designer Tom Ford, "Fat women almost always look better without the constraint and lumpy pinching of clothes."

via contactmusic

Gift Guide 2010: The Best Gift Sets

As the holidays approach -- or, in the case of Hannukah, as it comes to a close tonight! -- I'll be bringing you a few gifts I'm fairly certain you won't want to live without. Today is dedicated to three of the prettiest, coolest gift sets around. See them all after the jump.

NARS Crazy Heart Lip Gloss Coffret: With this quintuplet of sheer bright glosses by your side, your makeup bag will never be the same. I love that NARS lipglosses are creamy and moisturizing -- no stickiness or tackiness in sight here! Choose from Easy Lover (hot pink), Babe (orange red), Turkish Delight (pink sorbet), Misbehave (shimmery cherry red) and the brand's cult favorite, Orgasm (shimmery warm pink).
$50 at narscosmetics.com

Deborah Lippmann All That Jazz: As Deborah's colors are among my very favorites (Believe and Ruby Red Slippers, anyone?), I was totally, well, jazzed about this gift set of three gorgeously sparkly polishes. Deborah's inspiration was inspired by the idea of improvisation in jazz melding with the concept of personal style in beauty, and the three colors in this set -- Razzle Dazzle (darkened glittery raspberry), Lady Sings the Blues (navy speckled with silver sparkle) and Some Enchanted Evening (pink salmon shimmer) -- most definitely get the point across.
$40 at deborahlippmann.com

Kate Somerville Celebrate ExfoliKate: If you love Kate Somerville's ExfoliKate -- and why wouldn't you, it's a cult favorite for a reason -- then this is most definitely the set for you. Not only does it include the ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment (one of the absolute best exfoliating scrubs out there), but it's also got the ExfoliKate Body Intensive Exfoliating Treatment -- so you'll be gleaming from head to toe! And my favorite part of the set? The two products are full-sized!
$165 at katesomerville.com

The Best Hand Soaps: Philosophy Amazing Grace Perfumed Hand Wash

I've always been a fan of luxury hand soaps. Not that there's anything wrong with Softsoap or Dove, but once in awhile a girl's gotta wash up with something a bit more fabulous! So I'm introducing a new series with some of my very favorite hand soaps -- check out Philosophy Amazing Grace Perfumed Hand Wash after the jump.

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Mani of the Week: Zoya Jacy

I am loving my mani this week! I popped by Polished Beauty Bar for a visit with my gal Susan this weekend and went for Zoya Jacy -- a bold, plum/red/mauve combo with a subtle hint of shimmer. This color is absolutely gorgeous -- the shimmer is faint, but definitely noticeable, and the hue is so saturated and rich. Perfect now that winter is here!

What's on your nails this week? Let me know in the comments!