Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Yay or Nay: Silly Bandz

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Silly Bandz, Brainchild Products, Silly Bandz Princess Pack, jewelry, bracelet
The latest trend hitting the wrists of everyone from 5-year-olds on up? Silly Bandz. These have infiltrated my office, my home, my subway stop -- everywhere I look, I see another Silly Band. (Or should it always be spelled with a Z? Is this one singular word that isn't truly singular?

In any case, I am thoroughly perplexed by the popularity of said bandz, much as adults must have been stunned by the amazingness of Slap Bracelets back when I was a kid. (Side note: I had a red and black polka-dotted one that was the BOMB. It's still on top of my dresser at my mom's house.) I can see the appeal as far as not actually putting them on your wrists goes, since at least then you can see the fun shapes. (Above, some of the bandz from the Princess Pack.) But once they're slung around your wrist, they completely lose their original shape and just look like multicolored rubber bands that actually start to make you lose feeling in your arm after awhile. So what's the point?

Maybe you can enlighten me, dear readers. Let me know your thoughts about Silly Bandz in the comments!

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

The Best Sheet Mask Series: Cettua After Night Fever Soothing Essence Mask

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I have a mild obsession with sheet masks. The Best Sheet Mask Series features the sheet masks that will leave your skin bright and glowing.

How often have you woken up and wished your skin didn't show the evidence of the late night beforehand? Well, tired skin beware -- because the Cettua After Night Fever Soothing Sheet Mask will make your skin look AMAZING.

Beauty Question: Do You Prefer Lip Balm in Pot or Stick Form?

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lip, lips, lip balm, balm, Smith's Rosebud Strawberry Lip Balm, Yu-Be Lip Therapy
I find that some beauty situations really make people have a strong opinion. The question of lip balm in stick versus pot form is one of them. While some prefer to slick it on from a tube or stick, others really want to dip their fingers into a pot and rub across their pout. I, for one, actually like both -- and sometimes I find that balms from pots are much more moisturizing and nourishing than those from sticks.

But I'm curious to hear what you think, fellow beauty chicks. Let me know your thoughts in the comments!


Monday, June 28, 2010

Unconventional Uses for Household Objects: Converting a Q-Tip Container Into a Pill Case

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I'm in the process of packing for a week-long trip to Cleveland. When it came time to pack my supplements -- I'm currently taking magnesium, CoQ10 and fish oil to help with my migraines -- I was at a loss. Did I really want to cart three massive pill tubs in my suitcase? The answer would be no.

As I rummaged through my beauty product drawers, I came across this blue Q-tip container. I bought it on my trip to Hawaii last year and had forgotten about it completely. But as I started dropping the week's worth of pills into the case, I became more and more pleased with myself. It's not every day I come up with an ingenious solution such as this!

So I give you my Q-tip container turned pill case. Who knew?

Fresh, Fragrant and Totally Summer Appropriate: Dior Miss Dior Cherie L'Eau Eau de Toilette

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Dior, Dior perfume, Dior fragrance, Dior Miss Dior Cherie L'Eau Eau de Toilette, fragrance, perfume, eau de toiletteI've been on the lookout for the perfect summer fragrance for quite awhile. Many are just too heady, too strong, too fragrant. But then I came across Dior Miss Dior Cherie L'Eau Eau de Toilette, and I knew I had found my perfect match.

For starters, I'm in love with the bottle. The delicate, utterly vanity-worthy square glass bottle is topped by a stopper with the prettiest, most delicate bow -- such a sweet, sophisticated touch.

The scent is lovely and delightful. A floral base of freesia, jasmine and orange blossom opens up to notes of popcorn, vanilla, caramel and patchouli. It's intriguing and warm yet undeniably soft -- and just a few spritzes on your pulse points will last for hours without feeling cloying. I would equate it to Clinique Happy Heart -- it has a warmth that really makes it interesting.

Truth be told, this is one of my favorite fragrances in quite some time. One can only hope it doesn't run out too quickly.

Dior Miss Dior Cherie L'Eau Eau de Toilette is $62 for 1.7 fl. oz. and $82 for 3.4 fl. oz.

Mani of the Week: Deborah Lippmann Happy Birthday Over OPI Jade is the New Black

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Have you ever met a nail polish so transformative, so intriguing, so unbelievably amazing, you simply can't get enough of it? Such is the case with Deborah Lippmann Happy Birthday for me. Every time I look at the bottle, I want to see how it will affect my current manicure. And since my OPI Jade is the New Black manicure had held up so well since last week -- seriously, not a single chip! -- I decided to keep it on and layer Happy Birthday on top. Keep reading to check out before and after photos!

Sunday, June 27, 2010

Suffering Through the World's Worst Haircut

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Two weeks ago, I went into my regular salon and sat down in my stylist's chair. He'd been cutting my hair for over a year, so I felt completely confident sitting there. I didn't think he'd hack off too much, since he knew I'd been growing it out -- and, in fact, he had brought my hair back to life from the last terrible haircut experience of summer 2009. Little did I think he would completely ruin the tresses that had finally grown out past my shoulders, chopping such strange and uneven layers that I actually had to go back and have him fix his mistakes.

But you know what? The haircut is now even WORSE. I have strange, choppy layers that don't match. I have an uneven haircut that makes me alternate between crying and screaming every time I look at it. Worst of all, this haircut makes me feel ugly. I simply don't know what to do -- I fear hacking off any more will leave me with a bob so short, I'll end up crying for months.

I hate to be dramatic, because I know that in the end, it's just hair and it will grow. But for the next few months, I am stuck with a cut so terrible all I can do is wear my hair in a ponytail. (At least it's summer and too hot to wear it down anyway. Thank goodness for small favors.) It makes me angry, because this is a stylist I trusted -- and now I am at a complete loss.

Dying Over My Latest Pedicure: Deborah Lippmann Ruby Red Slippers

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Yesterday, I treated myself to a pedicure at Soho Sanctuary. Imagine my surprise and delight when I discovered they had the entire line of Deborah Lippmann nail polishes at the ready! I simply had to go with Deborah Lippmann Ruby Red Slippers, a blackened ruby with oversized chunks of crimson glitter.

Saturday, June 26, 2010

A Peek Inside My Shower -- With Video!

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Following up on my video showing you a peek inside my vanity, I decided to give you a little foray into my shower as well! I've stockpiled my little stall shower with as many products as I can possibly fit inside ... from shower gels and body scrubs to hair masks and my beloved Clarisonic Mia, there's no stone left unturned! Hope you enjoy!

Friday, June 25, 2010

First Look Fridays: Makeup Artist Robin Siegel

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It's not every day that I can say I interviewed the makeup artist for Friends. But today? I CAN! My brother and I can endlessly quote Friends episodes (and may have been known to put quotes on each other's Facebook walls), so when I found out I had the opportunity to speak with the head makeup artist for the show, Robin Siegel, I jumped at the opportunity. Read on to discover the eyeshadow she can't live without, the first TV show she ever worked on and so much more.

Thursday, June 24, 2010

My Latest Haul from Sephora: Stila, Fresh and Marc Jacobs, Oh My!

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Sephora, Fresh, Fresh Sugar Plum Tinted Lip Treatment SPF 15, lip balm, lip, lips, balm, Stila, Stila Yumberry Crush Lip & Cheek Stain, lip stain, cheek stain, lipgloss, lip gloss, stain, Marc Jacobs, Marc Jacobs Fragrance, Marc Jacobs Fragrance Rollerball, rollerball, rollerball fragrance, rollerball perfume, fragrance, perfume
As many of my beauty compatriots would probably happily attest, it’s quite near impossible to walk into a Sephora and leave without buying anything. I don’t think I’ve ever come away without plunking down at least $40 on pure impulse purchases. The thoughts that go through my head include: That lipgloss? I need it! That body scrub? I’ve been dying to check it out? Oh, and that facial cleanser? I had just been thinking about buying one!

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Too Pretty to USE: M.A.C Liberty of London Shell Pearl Beauty Powder

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M.A.C, MAC, M.A.C Cosmetics, MAC Cosmetics, M.A.C Beauty Powder, M.A.C Liberty of London, M.A.C Liberty of London Shell Pearl Beauty Powder, Liberty of London, powder, compact, powder compact, blush, bronzer
Do you ever come across a product so unbelievably beautiful, you just can't bring yourself to use it? The moment I came across M.A.C Liberty of London Shell Pearl Beauty Powder, that's exactly how I felt. I am utterly enamored of the white plastic compact. Across the top, brightly hued flowers and colorful birds sit amongst a scratched black swirly garden.

This is honestly one of the most unique compacts I've ever come across. And to make matters even better? The powder inside is GORGEOUS. The peachy pink hue shimmers, shines, glimmers and gleams with the best of them. Not that I'd know, because I can't bring myself to sweep a brush across its expanse just yet.

Unfortunately, this product is no longer available.

Make Someone Happy: Clinique Happy Hearts and Kisses Set

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Clinique, Clinique Happy Heart, Clinique Happy Heart Fragrance, Clinique Happy Heart Perfume, Clinique Happy Hearts and Kisses Set, body wash, shower gel, fragrance, perfume, makeup bag, gift set, lotion, moisturizer
Whenever I travel, I seem to be lacking in actual travel-sized products ... not to mention I've been on the lookout for an adorable makeup bag for quite some time. Enter the Clinique Happy Hearts and Kisses Set. This three-piece collection contains perfectly sized bottles of Refreshing Body Wash, Body Cream and the original Happy Heart fragrance.

Beauty Giveaway: Kelly Van Gogh Root Rehab Emergency Retouch Kit in 4V Light Cool Brown

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Are your locks in desperate need of a pick-me-up ... but you don't want to shell out the big bucks to get your roots redone? Never fear -- Kelly Van Gogh Root Rehab Emergency Retouch Kit in 4V Light Cool Brown is here! This kit contains everything you'll need to ensure your tresses look fabulous for weeks on end. Inside this fabulous box you'll find the following:

1 tube of Root Rehab Color Creme
1 bottle of Developer
1 Professional Reusable Applicator Bottle
1 Professional Reusable Hairline Brush
1 pair of designer reusable gloves
ColorDefinition Shampoo and Conditioner packets

And now one lucky winner has the chance to win the kit, valued at $39! Entering is easy. All you have to do is enter your name and email address in the box below. The winners will be selected on Sunday, June 27 and notified by email. It's that simple!



This giveaway is open to US residents only. Giveaway runs until Saturday, June 26 at midnight. One entry per person, email address and IP address. Multiple entries will be disqualified.

Today's Shower Ritual: Blow, Caress, Clarisonic, Dermalogica and Gillette Venus!

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What was in your shower today? I'll let you know what was in mine!

Blow, Blow New York, Blow The Perfect Shower Cap, shower, shower cap, hair, Dermalogica, Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel, skin, skincare, skin care, cleanser, Clarisonic, Clarisonic Mia, Gillette, Gillette Venus, Gillette Venus razor, Gillette razor, Gillette Venus Embrace, Gillette Venus Embrace Pink Razor, Caress, Caress Whipped Souffle Ultra Silkening Body Wash Blackberry Cream, Caress body wash, Caress shower gel, razor, shower gel, body wash

Seen above:

Blow The Perfect Shower Cap, $18 at beauty.com (click here for my review!)
Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel, $41 at drugstore.com
Clarisonic Mia, $149 at drugstore.com (click here for my review!)
Gillette Venus Embrace Pink Razor
Caress Whipped Souffle Ultra Silkening Body Wash in Blackberry Cream

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Beauty Question: How Often Do You Shave?

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Gillette, Gillette Venus, Gillette Venus Embrace, Gillette Venus Embrace Razor, Gillette razor, razor, shave, shaving, beauty questionMy number one reason for despising the summer months? I absolutely hate shaving. I'll do it, of course -- but with dark hair, the need to shave comes pretty darned frequently. And while I save up the money for laser hair removal, I'm shaving my legs at least every other day!

So my beauty question of the day is this. How often do you shave? Is it an every day affair, or do you let time go by between bouts of breaking out the razor? Let me know in the comments!

A Peek Inside My Vanity -- With Video!

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In case you were wondering, I have a lot of products. We're talking massive quantities of lipgloss, nail polish and eyeshadow here. And I've decided to give you a peek inside my vanity! Check out the video below, where I take you through all the pretty things I've been collecting.

And yes, in case you're wondering, my vanity is a former desk. (I built it myself!)



What's inside your vanity? Let me know in the comments!

Monday, June 21, 2010

Mani of the Week: OPI Jade is the New Black

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OPI, OPI Jade is the New Black, OPI Nail Polish, nail, nails, nail polish, polish, lacquer, nail lacquer, mani, manicure, mani of the weekI am in LOVE with my nail polish choice this week! While on a weekend getaway to Chicago, I indulged in manicures at Bliss with a couple girlfriends. Lo and behold, they had OPI Jade is the New Black sitting on their polish shelf! I'm used to seeing only Essie polishes at Bliss, so this was quite a welcome change.

This nail polish is one of the creamiest, richest greens I've yet to come across. It slicks across the nail unbelievably easily and looks incredible against pale skin. (Thank goodness, since I am always Casper white.) I can't even imagine a better polish choice for the week!

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

Utter Amazingness: My Friend Michael's Shower Product Assortment (So Much Aveda You'll Scream in Ecstasy!)

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Aveda, Aveda hair products, cleanser, shampoo, conditioner, skin, skincare, skin care, hair products, hair treatment, body wash, luxury beauty products
You know what's super fun? Checking out the shower situation at a friend's apartment. I always like to see what products I can find that maybe I've never tried before. (Shocking, I know!)

In any case, my friend Michael's shower is EPIC. One of his roommates is a stylist for the Aveda concept salon in Chicago, and their shower is fully stocked with every Aveda product you could ever imagine! From Shampure shampoo (my all-time fave) to cleansers and body scrubs I never even knew existed, this is one shower I'd die to try.

Left to right, here are the products pictured:

Aveda Botanical Kinetics Purifying Gel Cleanser
Aveda Tourmaline Charged Radiant Skin Refiner
Aveda Scalp Benefits Balancing Shampoo
Aveda Smooth Infusion Conditioner
Aveda Outer Peace Foaming Cleanser
Crest 3D White Enamel Renewal Fluoride Anticavity Toothpaste (thrown in for good measure I suppose!)
Aveda Shampure(tm) Shampoo
Aveda Aveda Men Pure-Formance Exfoliating Shampoo
Aveda Aveda Men Pure-Formance Shampoo
Aveda Aveda Men Pure-Formance Conditioner
Aveda Energizing Body Cleanser
Caribbean Therapy Body Scrub

Who knew a shower could tempt me so?

Friday, June 18, 2010

First Look Fridays: Manicurist Julie Kandalec

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Do you know what I absolutely love about this business? Speaking with a hairstylist, manicurist, et al and discovering that we grew up in the same town! Such is the case with manicurist Julie Kandalec -- we're both from Cleveland! And in fact, she did her cosmetology training at my high school! I love when small worlds collide. Julie is super-talented -- her work has been seen in InStyle, Blender and Scratch and she's worked with fashion designers the likes of Charlotte Ronson, Elise Overland and Tony Cohen. Read on to discover her favorite sheer nail polish, the one product she can't live without and so much more.

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Leifsdottir and J Brand Available on Rue La La Today!

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If you're in love with Leifsdottir and J Brand, then today is your lucky day -- because they're available on Rue La La! Leifsdottir tops are going for as low as $49, while J Brand jeans are also $49. You won't find deals like this anywhere else!

Also available on Rue La La today:
Mea Shadow
Luxury Under the Sun: Essentials
Luxury Under the Sun: A Family Getaway
Frette
What He Wants (To Do) Boutique: Experiences Dad Will Love
Botkier
Arnold Zimberg
Gundlach Bundschu
Lafayette 148 New York
Shades of Summer: Sunglasses We Love
Coccinelle
Hickey Freeman
Boutique 9

Need an invite? Click here.

The Sweet Smell of Success: Kiehl's Sunflower Color Preserving Deep Recovery Pak

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Kiehl's, Kiehl's Sunflower Color Preserving Deep Recovery Pak, hair mask, hair treatment, hair masque
Is there anything better-smelling than Kiehl's Sunflower Color Preserving Deep Recovery Pak? If so, I haven't found it. This hair mask seriously smells so good, I can't stop sniffing my strands!

And if that's not enough, it makes your tresses SO. SUPER. SOFT. They've never felt so silky smooth!

Kiehl's Sunflower Color Preserving Deep Recovery Pak retails for $25 at kiehls.com.

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

What's Your Beauty Indulgence? Alisha Rimando Botero's is Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Plump Perfect Ultra Lift and Firm Moisture Cream

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Elizabeth Arden, Elizabeth Arden skincare, Elizabeth Arden moisturizer, Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Plump Perfect, Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Plump Perfect Ultra Lift and Firm Moisture Cream SPF 30, SPF, moisturizer, skin, skincare, skin care, facial moisturizer, lotion, cream, ceramide
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.

I had the pleasure of meeting manicurist Alisha Rimando Botero backstage at New York Fashion Week last year, and it was an utter delight. She's so knowledgeable about all things nails -- she had so many great tips for me, it was simply stunning! And if that's not enough, she's one of the sweetest people you could ever meet. She got me backstage at Erin Fetherston when I wasn't on the list -- now that's nice! With all that being said, I was definitely intrigued to find out what Alisha's beauty indulgence would be ... and color me surprised, it's not nails-related at all! In her own words, here's Alisha's beauty indulgence.

Now that I am in my mid 30’s, my basic moisturizer has upgraded to a daily indulgence of Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Plump Perfect Ultra Lift and Firm Moisture Cream. Who knew that one simple moisturizer routine could make you look younger and feel smoother in one application? I tend to be a little on the dryer side, and my face feels a bit tight when I get out of the shower or after my evening face washing. One pea size of this magical cream not only feels refreshing, but my husband ALWAYS says “you look so young” after application. Whether it’s because of my moisturized freckles gleaming with no makeup to cover them, or the fine lines and wrinkles plumped to reveal a fresh younger appearance, I am always grateful. An added bonus is the 30 SPF -- so no additional products are needed before makeup application.

Check back soon for another edition of What's Your Beauty Indulgence?.

Where Did All My Cleansers Go?

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Clinique, Clinique cleanser, Clinique Comforting Cream Cleanser, Clinique skincare, skin, skincare, skin care, cleanser, facial cleanserI just discovered something horrifying. I don't own a single cleanser. There was a time when my apartment was overrun with cleansers for every skin type. Oily, dry, combination ... you name it, I had a cleanser for it. But I cleaned house (no pun intended) and, unfortunately, I seem to have gotten rid of every single cleanser along with it.

So I ask you, fellow beauty chicks -- what cleanser do you recommend? I am in dire straits! Let me know your recommendations in the comments!

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Outfit of the Day: Playing with Proportion

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Today is one of those perfect summer days ... not too hot, not too cold, unbelievably gorgeous and sunny. I felt that my look today needed to be breezy but still chic -- hence the long tunic paired with relaxed silk pants. To be honest, I wasn't sure about the proportion -- but since everyone in my office has been complimenting me today, I guess it worked out okay!

Here's the breakdown:

Polo Jeans Co. embroidered cotton tunic
Diane von Furstenberg "Copper" Cropped Parachute Pants in Dark Khaki (more info on that purchase here!)
Ralph Lauren black linen and patent leather peep-toe pumps
Alexis Bittar Rose Gold Crystal Encrusted Liquid Link Earrings
Alexis Bittar Large Gold Calder Coral Ring (more info on my Alexis Bittar haul here! Shop for your favorite Alexis Bittar jewelry at alexisbittar.com.)
Gold signet ring and garnet ring: presents from my mom on my 16th and 18th birthdays, respectively
On my nails: Deborah Lippmann Constant Craving

Closeup of my Alexis Bittar jewels!

Getting Misty: Elemental Herbology Flower Harmonising Mist Facial Tonic

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I'm in love with face mists. If a face mist exists in the world, chances are I've tried it and loved it. So when I found out about Elemental Herbology Flower Harmonising Mist Facial Tonic, I simply had to check it out.

Pain is Good: Core Fusion at Exhale

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I woke up in the middle of the night in extreme pain. Why, you might ask? Oh, just residual pain from my latest Core Fusion class at Exhale. But before this turns you off completely to the fabulousness which is the Core Fusion program, let me explain.

Monday, June 14, 2010

My Deborah Lippmann Mani from Red Door is Still Going Strong! (Plus a Shot of My New Alexis Bittar Ring!)

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Deborah Lippmann, Deborah Lippmann Constant Craving, nail polish, polish, lacquer, nail lacquer, Elizabeth Arden, Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa, Alexis Bittar, Alexis Bittar ring, Alexis Bittar jewelry, ring, jewelry, Deborah Lippmann nail polish, mani, manicure
Check it out ... I'm on day 4 of my Deborah Lippmann Constant Craving manicure from the Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa and there's not a chip in sight!

Plus, here's a shot of my brand-new Alexis Bittar ring. I am in LOVE!

Deborah Lippmann Constant Craving retails for $18 at beauty.com.

Shop for your favorite Alexis Bittar jewelry at alexisbittar.com.

Salon and Spa Directory: The Signature Facial and Irresistible Eye Renovation at Wei Lang

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Wei Lang, facial, skin, skincare, skin care
Want clear, glowing, totally rejuvenated skin? It's time to visit Wei Lang. After a recent facial, my skin looks AMAZING. My facialist, Anna, worked diligently to treat my clogged pores and hormonal breakouts, leaving behind such a radiant glow I couldn't believe my eyes!

Saturday, June 12, 2010

Haul of the Day: Alexis Bittar Jewelry! Plus a Video!

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For years now, I've been coveting Alexis Bittar jewelry. I've been back and forth on which piece would be the first to enter my jewelry collection. Would it be a ring? A bracelet? Earrings? Today I stopped by the SoHo store and my choice was made.

After literally opening every single case in the store and trying on multiple items (the salesgirl, Marlena, was uber-sweet and helpful), I landed on two pieces I'm simply thrilled about! Check out my video below for an in-depth look at what I bought!



Pieces featured in the video:
Rose Gold Crystal Encrusted Liquid Link Earrings ($175)
Large Gold Calder Coral Ring ($185)

Shop for your favorite Alexis Bittar jewelry at alexisbittar.com.

Friday, June 11, 2010

Mani of the Week: Deborah Lippmann Constant Craving

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Deborah Lippmann, Deborah Lippmann Nail Polish, Deborah Lippmann Constant Craving, Deborah Lippmann Nail Polish Constant Craving, nail, nails, nail polish, polish, lacquer, nail lacquer, mani, manicure, mani of the week
Last night, I went to Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa for the Champagne Rose Manicure. My manicurist, Mimi, was absolutely fantastic -- she buffed, clipped, scrubbed and polished better than anyone I've seen in quite some time. Over conversation, she polished my tips with Deborah Lippmann Constant Craving -- a gorgeous, creamy pale pink. I'm usually not into pale pinks but this one really spoke to me!

What are you wearing on your nails this week? Let me know in the comments!

Deborah Lippmann Constant Craving retails for $18 at beauty.com.

Thursday, June 10, 2010

What's Your Beauty Indulgence? Beauty Blogger Christine Mikesell Fills Us In.

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Kiehl's, Kiehl's Lip Balm #1, lip, lips, lip balm, balm, Christine Mikesell, 15 Minute Beauty Fanatic, indulgence, beauty indulgence, What's Your Beauty Indulgence?
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 I really want an honest opinion of a beauty product, I turn to Christine Mikesell of 15 Minute Beauty Fanatic. She provides smart, educated and thoroughly thought-provoking reviews that really make me want to run out and buy every single product ... not to mention she's an absolute doll in person! In Christine's own words, here's her beauty indulgence.

Beauty Giveaway: Sarah Jessica Parker SJP NYC Sparkling Solid Perfume Bracelet

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Sarah Jessica Parker, SJP NYC, Sarah Jessica Parker SJP NYC, SJP NYC Sparkling Solid Perfume Bracelet, perfume, fragrance, bracelet, cuff, giveaway, beauty giveaway
If you love both jewelry and fragrance, then this is the giveaway for you! One lucky winner will receive the Sarah Jessica Parker SJP NYC Sparkling Solid Perfume Bracelet, valued at $35. This glamorous gold cuff is accented by a gleaming, glittering faceted jewel and contains the sweet-smelling SJP NYC fragrance in solid form. The fragrance contains notes of wild red strawberries, Italian mandarin, white osmanthus, gardenia, honeysuckle, mimosa, rum flavor, sandalwood and creamy musks.

Entering is easy. All you have to do is enter your name and email address in the box below. The winners will be selected on Thursday, June 17 and notified by email. It's that simple!



This giveaway is open to US residents only. Giveaway runs until Wednesday, June 16 at midnight. One entry per person, email address and IP address. Multiple entries will be disqualified.

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

My Nails Experiment: Deborah Lippmann Sparkly Polishes Layered Over Chanel Particuliere

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I've gotten a little lazy this week and am still wearing Chanel Particuliere. (But never fear, I'm getting a manicure tomorrow and will have a brand-new color to show all of you!) In any case, I decided to take this opportunity to test out how some sparkly Deborah Lippmann stunners look layered over the greyish brown hue. And I've gotta say, I'm loving them both!

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First up, we have Chanel Particuliere paired with a coat of Deborah Lippmann Happy Birthday. I love the individual multicolored sparkles -- usually I'm not a fan of piecey glitter like this, but in the case of this polish, I'm totally into it! I think it creates such a unique look.

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Next, we have Chanel Particuliere paired with a coat of Deborah Lippmann Superstar. The bronze-gold hue, teamed with massive amounts of gritty, glittery sparkle, really make this a standout combination for me. I feel utterly glam with this on my nail!

My Fail-Safe Way to Combat the Rain ... The Totes Bubble Umbrella

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Totes, Totes Bubble Umbrella Silver, umbrella, rain, bubble umbrellaLet me tell you something. I despise rain with every fiber of my being. I'd rather walk to work through a tornado or a blizzard than deal with even the tiniest bit of rain. And you know why? My. Hair. Hates. Getting. Wet. So when I came across the Totes Bubble Umbrella, I figured I'd give it a try.

Little did I know just how much I would fall in love with this umbrella. Never before did I think it was possible for one umbrella to keep not only my body but my hair so completely and utterly dry. Never before did I think I could make it through a whole day without a single, solitary frizzy strand. Color me shocked and surprised!

The umbrella itself is quite sizable -- not as big as a golf umbrella, mind you, but it's no small feat carrying it around waiting for the next thunderstorm. It's definitely too big to fit inside a purse, so I do recommend having a small backup umbrella for days you're not positive the drops will fall. With that being said, I've been carrying it for three months now and have yet to whack someone in the head with it as I walk down the street.

In all seriousness, I can't believe it took me this long to buy a bubble umbrella. I'm never going back.

The Totes Bubble Umbrella retails for $16.99.

Beauty Question: Do You Combine Candle Scents?

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candle, Beauty Question, candles, home fragrance, fragrance, scent, home scent, Jo Malone, Jo Malone candleRecently, I've been on a bigger candle kick than usual -- but in a completely different way. I've always been a one candle at a time kind of gal ... but all of a sudden, I feel the need to burn multiples simultaneously. And we're not talking unscented here -- I mean combining rose with ginger, white jasmine with pomegranate, even tuberose with vanilla. I thought it would make my apartment smell strange and, dare I say it, bad -- but instead, it's brought to light all of these new fragrance combinations I never knew existed!

So my Beauty Question today is this. Do you combine candle scents? I'm intrigued by your responses -- let me know in the comments!

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

My Latest Product Favorites: Plus a Video!

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Hello, my fellow beauty chicks! Today I'm bringing you a video of my latest product favorites -- I wanted you to see them up close and personal. In the video, you'll hear me talking about the following fabulous products:

M.A.C PRO Eye Makeup Remover
M.A.C Get-Away Bronze Powder Blush (from the To the Beach Collection)
Weleda Skin Food
Zoya 3-in-1 Formula Remove+

And you know what I just realized as I was writing this post? I have a green and purple theme going on here!

Enjoy!

Monday, June 7, 2010

Tweeze with the Best: Tweezerman for Benefit Slant Tweezer

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Tweezerman, Benefit, Tweezerman for Benefit, Tweezerman for Benefit Slant Tweezer, tweezer,  tweezers, Tweezerman tweezers, Tweezerman Slant Tweezer, brow, brows, eyebrow, eye brows, eyebrows, pluck brows, pluck eyebrowsAny gal worth her salt knows to keep a pair of Tweezerman tweezers at the ready. Whether you go for the Slant or the Point variety, there’s nothing better for plucking pesky strays. (I have three different pairs!) So it comes as no surprise that I’m all over the Tweezerman for Benefit Slant Tweezer.

I love the girly, swirly pink design almost as much as I love the tweezer itself. The hand-filled stainless steel tips seriously pluck out every single solitary hair with the greatest of ease -- and (relatively) no pain!

And to tell you the truth, I don’t even want to keep these tucked away in my vanity for company. I want the whole world to see their beauty!

The Tweezerman for Benefit Slant Tweezer retails for $25 at benefitcosmetics.com.

Sunday, June 6, 2010

For Once, Boston Water Doesn't Fail Me.

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hair, Boston, Boston water, water, hairstyle, hair styleI have a long-standing hate affair with Boston water. It makes my hair puffy, frizzy and completely unmanageable. No amount of products or time spent with a blowdryer/flat iron combination seems to help.

Until this past weekend, that is.

All of a sudden, my seemingly afflicted-by-Boston-water tresses sang a different tune. My strands laid (mostly) flat and even looked SHINY.

What's the culprit behind my finally semi-fabulous Boston tresses? Who can tell ... but I'm not complaining!

Saturday, June 5, 2010

Shameless Plugs: The Beauty of Life Featured on Rue La La and Smartypanties!

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Guess what, fellow beauty chicks? I have exciting news to share today. I've been featured on two different blogs this week and simply had to bring you the links.

First up? I did a guest post for Rue La La, talking about Beach-Ready Beauty. Find out which sunscreen, waterproof mascara and even nail polish color I recommend for this summer's beach vacation!

Next? The lovely Katie Berwitt of Smartypanties featured me in her 25 Things You Don't Know series. Get the dish on the orchestra I once soloed with, my career aspirations as a young girl and one of my very favorite books ... and, of course, some beauty-related truths as well!

Friday, June 4, 2010

Color Me Carrie: Sex And The City 2

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Sex and the City, Sex and the City 2, Sex and the City movie, movie screening, Carrie Bradshaw, Samantha Jones, Charlotte York, Miranda HobbesIt was as though Carrie Bradshaw herself graced us with the gift of good fashion. When I attended the Sex and The City 2 preview, women were coiffed, manicured and dolled up in preparation for the anticipated fashion-to-film event of the year. We bustled to our seats, teetering in our stilettos with high hopes and popcorn. A buzz was about us New York City gals; regardless of our expectations, we had gathered together in harmony.

I admit that I was skeptical. I assumed the sequel would be forced and sorely disappointing, though I was rooting for more. The first movie left me exhausted from the emotional roller coaster plot and I wasn’t expecting any epiphanies regarding Samantha’s sex life. But alas, the first ten minutes dissolved my hard feelings. I won’t spoil the fun, but I’ll tell you that I love a good dance scene.

In juxtaposition to the negative buzz I’ve heard about the film, I found it rather refreshing. It resembled the former 30-minute segments in hilarity and outlandishness, and to question those with foul opinions: what did you expect? It’s Sex and The City. Its very nature is outrageous and unrealistic. Its DNA is made of all things girly, fabulous and never-in-a-million-years-does-anyone-actually-live-that-way excitement.

I thought the sequel revealed several layers, touching on the trials of womanhood regarding becoming a new wife, mother and professional. Of course there was your token zinger and a few predictable one-liners. But again ... what did you expect? I personally love the fantasy of living a lavish, exotic, world traveling, Manolo existence in my 30's. No matter how out of reach it may be. SATC is the female's Die Hard. A girl’s allowed to dream, isn’t she?

First Look Fridays: Blogger Betsy Lowther of Fashion Is Spinach

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I've known blogger Betsy Lowther, she of Fashion Is Spinach fame, for quite some time. She was actually my first boss in the "real world" over 8 years ago! (We worked together at Harper's Bazaar.) Since then, I've grown to absolutely adore her blog and read it on a daily basis, not to mention I follow her on Twitter. Read on to discover why she started her blog, the statement jewelry she can't live without and so much more.

Thursday, June 3, 2010

The Perfect Duet: Votre Vu Duette Luxe Lip Balm & Hand Crème

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Votre Vu,  Votre Vu Duette Luxe Lip Balm & Hand Creme, Votre Vu hand cream, Votre Vu lotion, Votre Vu lip balm, lip, lips, lip balm, balm, lotion, moisturizer, hand cream
Have you ever wondered why you have to carry your lip balm and your hand cream separately? Has it bothered you that they take up more room in your purse because they’re not conveniently packaged together? Well, fret no more -- because Votre Vu Duette Luxe Lip Balm & Hand Crème is here to save the day.

Upcoming Mani of the Week Posts: So Much to Choose From!

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nail polish, nails, nail, polish, nail lacquer, lacquer, mani, manicure, mani of the week, Chanel, Dior, NARS, The Face Shop, Essie, OPI, Illamasqua, Deborah Lippmann, M.A.CI realized something today. I have a lot of nail polish. Okay, that's not a new realization. But when it comes to choosing the color I'm going to coat my tips with every week, it actually does "paint" quite an intriguing picture (pun intended!). As you can see in the picture above, I've got quite a few nail polishes in the queue. You may recognize the following names among the bottles:

Dior
Deborah Lippmann
Illamasqua
Essie
OPI
Chanel
NARS
M.A.C
The Face Shop

The only trouble is, which one will I choose next? You'll have to tune in every week to find out!

How Many Shoes Are Too Many? Giving You a Peek into My Shoe Drawer.

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shoe drawer, shoes, Manolo Blahnik, Dolce & Gabbana, Miu Miu, Nine West, Ralph Lauren, pumps, heelsDo you keep shoes at work? I do, for two reasons:

1) You never know which shoes you'll feel like wearing, so it's nice to have a stash.

2) I'm too lazy to carry them home at the end of the day.

In any case, I've amassed quite a shoe drawer. At the moment, it includes shoes from Manolo Blahnik, Dolce & Gabbana, Miu Miu, Nine West and Ralph Lauren. Who's to say what else might find its way into the drawer in the near future?

What's in your shoe drawer? Let me know in the comments!

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Pretty in Pink: Marc by Marc Jacobs Long Cosmetic Case in Raspberry

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Marc By Marc Jacobs, Marc By Marc Jacobs Long Cosmetic Case Raspberry, Marc By Marc Jacobs cosmetic case, Marc By Marc Jacobs makeup bag, makeup bag, cosmetic case, cosmetics case, Marc Jacobs
I'm becoming increasingly addicted to the color pink. I'm really not a girly girl -- and it used to be that if pastel pink crossed my path, I'd literally scream in horror. But recently, I seem to be gravitating more and more toward the girliest color around. And when I laid my eyes on the Marc by Marc Jacobs Long Cosmetic Case in Raspberry? It was all over.