Prescriptives All Skins Foundations Campaign

Prescriptives is one of the few companies out there that do custom foundations right at their counters. Many bloggers I know love these. I haven't tried them yet, I hate to say. It sounds like a great idea though. Lets face it it can be hard to get just the right color & blend.


Here's a Q&A with Jillian Veran, Prescriptives Director of Artistry, on commonly asked foundation questions .

Granted this is Prescriptive based, but there is plenty of sound advice in there.


1. Do different skin types need different foundation formulas?


Absolutely - the environment can affect how our skin behaves so the same skin can even need different types of foundation during the year. In today’s beauty world there are so many options, the best thing to do is to address what you want and need from your foundation. Do you like a sheer, luminous, satin or matte finish? Do you like liquid, cream or powder formulas? And of course what is your skin type - normal, dry, oily, combination?



2. What is the best way to apply foundation? Should I use a sponge, a brush or my fingertips?

Applying foundation is a personal preference and each method creates a different finish. Using your fingers will allow for a sheerer finish; a sponge is a little tricky for a non-makeup artist as it can place a lot of foundation in one spot so be sure to move quickly across the areas you are applying to; a brush is always great as it helps you create a very smooth even finish.
Also, I always recommend using the Px Buff Brush after your foundation is dry to soften the look of the makeup and create a sheer air brushed effect.

3. If I'm testing foundation in a department store, is it ok to do a swatch on my hand? Or should I always test the foundation on my face?

The best and most accurate way to test foundation is on the side of the face along the jaw line. Stick to this method for fool proof matching.

4. If my skin tone is between foundation shades, what's the best solution?

Prescriptives Custom Blend Foundation is ideal for this. Your foundation can be blended not only to exactly match your skins own unique undertones, but also to create whatever finish and skin care needs you desire.

5. What foundations are best for acne prone skin? For dry skin? For mature skin

All skin types should start with a foundation primer like Px Flawless Face Primer. This will allow the makeup to wear longer and for a seamless finish.
Dry skin should wear a moisture based formula and should steer away from powder formulas. But if you prefer powder, use a soft cream-to-powder formula like Px Photochrome Light-Adjusting Compact Makeup SPF 15.
Normal skin can wear whatever they like, it’s all about preference.
Oily or acne prone skin should wear an oil-free formula. Powder foundation is great for this type of skin.
Mature skin must be hydrated before applying any foundation. The foundation shouldn’t be too matte or heavy as this can accentuate the age of the skin.

6. Do foundations with sunscreen provide enough protection? Should I need to wear extra sunscreen?

Sun damage is the leading cause of aging. So no, using foundation as sunscreen isn’t the best idea. Foundation doesn’t provide a full mask on the skin so the sun will get through.
Always use an SPF under your foundation for that extra layer of protection. I highly recommend Prescriptives All Weather Friend SPF 40 as it’s incredibly lightweight and feels great under foundation.


There's even an All Skins video shoot http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvZmRTsWJUI.



Full line at http://www.prescriptives.com/ or at counters.

Total Beauty Weekly Web Tour

Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog had another Manic Monday and two readers will have a FLABuLESS day by winning FLABuLESS shapewear. Enter now to be FLABuLESS in the skin you're in!

Alison of the Advice Sisters has discovered Tooth Soap, a cool way to clean your mouth and actually have fun, doing it!

Viva Woman finds out if green tea can help with slimming.

Beauty Anonymous reviews Shiseido's Majolica Majorca Lash Gorgeous Wing Mascara.

Georgia at Neon Bible lists her favourite Beauty Products under $10.00.

Beauty411 shares her recommendations for the Best Winter Lip Treatments!

Face Candy shows you how to get Gossip Girl Style for less.

At Fabulous Over Forty see what Beauty on a Budget product Hollywood stars loved at Sundance.

The Makeup Divas reviews Smashbox's Halo Hydrating Perfecting Powder.

Could you use $25 to buy whatever you want on Sephora.com? Beauty Junkies Unite is giving away a $25 Sephora.com eGift Certificate!

Win a 12-piece brush collection from More than a Pretty Face and Beauty Strokes!

Monique at Beauty Girl Musings reviews a mineral foundation unlike any other she has used before. Read about it here!

MissWhoever You Are reviews the new Kiss My Face SOS collection and SIX lucky readers will have a chance to win three glosses. What are you waiting for?!!Head on over there now!!

Boutique Flair reviews Dea Bella Eyelash Conditioner. Did it live up to its lofty claim of more beautiful lashes in 2-8 weeks and is it worth $150 per tube? Click here to find out!

Beauty Blvd. has a new GIVEAWAY! Win the entire Kiss My Face SOS Collection! That's 6 lip shimmers and 6 glosses!

Calling all Curls! AHS is giving away a bottle of Curls new Curl Gel-les'c just tell me why you have the most envious curls! Enter to WIN!

Lipstick Addict makes a review on Magic Lips Sunblock with SPF25 It's a steal for less than $2 dollars!

Feel like you need a little lovin'? Beauty Beast has all the details on the limited edition Valentine's Day goodies from LUSH

CaliforniaCosmetics shows you how to Step Into Spring with details from the new Coach 2009 Spring Shoe Collection.

eye4style is giving away $189 worth of Wei East skincare! Have you entered the giveaway yet?

Glossypink scopes out some gorgeous spring beauty trends straight from the runway!

This weekend is your last chance to enter to win an Anastasia Highlight Brow Kit from the girls at Beauty in Real Life. Click here to enter.

I Heart Heels has the scoop on a celeb fav: Mary Norton clutches!

Looking for your love potion? Get ready for Valentine's Day - The Beauty Blog reviews The Top Ten Most Romantic Perfumes.

Did you know that the original creator of Bare Minerals has another very popular mineral makeup? Mineral Makeup Reviews reviews Colorescience Mineral Makeup.

Suzanne at RN Guide to Skin Care discusses the Best Facial Cleanser.

Hot Beauty Health shares with you 6 beauty items a Gal just can't live without.

Butterfly Diary reviews Ojon's organic new Batana Collection.

It's Don't Need No Credit Card To Ride This Train week at Beauty Blogging Junkie! Click here to find out what products under $10 Amber recommends for recessionistas everywhere.

Enter to win a Beauty.com/Drugstore.com gift bag from the Sundance Film Festival at Makeup Bag.

Phantom Goddess shows you how and where to get fabulous discounts on makeup at Phantom Goddess's Beauty Obsessions.

This week, Spoiled Pretty is hosting three amazing giveaways. Enter to win Benefit's new CORALista blush, China Glaze's Romantique nail polish collection, and a Sundance Film Festival beauty swag bag!

The Jet Set Girlsreview the Sally Hershberger Face Place in New York City.


< href="http://anindiansmakeupmusings.blogspot.com/2009/01/sally-hansen-natural-beauty-by-carmindy.html" target="_blank">lip treats for $7.95 from your drugstore

Victoria's Secret Sexy Little Things Noir

A quick drop in post today as last evening got away from me ( I think the whole week has) and I didn't get anything more extensive prepared. Also thinking it would be nice to be settled before 1AM for once.

So thought I'd share some info on the new Victorias Secret perfume.

The newest scent is called Sexy Little Things Noir. This has been out a little while but I haven't sniffed it yet. The collection and bottle are meant to evoke vintage style and silver screen movie sirens. The EDP has the adorable bulb atomizers I love and I am excited to see a body powder. No one does enough of these . For that alone I need to check this out. If you have tested it, let me know in comments what you thought.

Notes:

Top: Nectarine, Juicy Apple, Sparkling Citrus, Pineapple, Guanabana, Pear, Red Fruit, Bergamot

Middle: Cattelaya Orchid, Muget, Cyclamen, Jasmine Petals, Plum, Vanilla, Dewberry, Cassis

Dry Down: Golden Amber, Velvet Musk, Sultry Woods, Tonka Bean

-Eau De parfum - 1.7 oz. $39

-Scented Body Lotion - 8.4 oz. $20-This luxe formula envelops skin in rich moisture and silky softness.

-Scented Body Wash - 15 oz. $18-Beautiful cream wash works into a rich, frothy foam, gently cleansing as it conditions.

-Scented Body powder - 2.5 oz. $29.50 -Silky, scented powder is infused with moisturizing Apricot Oil for softly radiant, lightly scented skin.

LaLicious Body Oil

I have long loved dry oil sprays for the body. I have 3 now, but at one time I think there were 5. They are just so moisturizing and usually smell amazing. I used to use them mainly in winter but then found them to be wonderful for summer parched skin .

It's been quite awhile since I tried a new one, and now I have one from LaLicious. I had read about their line but hadn't yet tried anything. The body oil got my attention.

I have the vanilla one and it's pretty darn yummy. The scent is more vanilla cookie like.

The oil itself is not quite a dry oil but it does sink in fast. No heavy greasiness and it blends beautifully. Super for these really cold days and nights.

It's also all natural. The ingredient list is very short: Coconut, Sweet Almond, Macadamia Nut oils, Essential & Fragrance oils, Soybean oil, and Vitamin E oil. Thats it.

The bottle is 8oz and sells for 24.00.

There are 8 scents and many are calling to me especially the Passionfruit Lime and Tahitian Flower. I think I need the Passionfruit Lime because, hello, it's citrus. I do love my citrus.

Tahitian Flower

Coconut Cream

Peppermint

Island Guava

Lily Mango

Passionfruit Lime

Vanilla

http://www.lalicious.com/ and lots of nice sounding spas like the Spa Moana at Hyatt Regency Maui, The Spa at Pebble Beach. Also at Planet Blue and Pure Beauty stores.

MAC New Studio Sculpt Foundation

MAC's newest foundation is Studio Sculpt . I've had a tube in my hot little hands for 2 days but only 1 of wearing it so far.

MAC says it's medium coverage but I think it's closer to full coverage, which I like. This is not a heavy foundation . It goes on fluidly, covers well but looks polished, finished, smooth and not cakey or overdone. It's got a beautiful finish, more natural than you would think.

It's also very good for your skin. Moisturizing but not dewy. The moisturizers scare me a bit, as it has shea butter in it. I love shea butter, but not on my face. Too oily for that normally, but I love this, so I am using it. When I last used a shea butter based eye cream, I broke out. So far, so good here and the shea concentration is much lower. When you squeeze this out of the tube, you get a dense liquid that feels light as could be on your face. It is a gel-cream formula, that is easily blended. It's recommended for all skin types, but mainly dry or mature. I'm neither, but for now I'm wearing it.

Studio Sculpt was developed in response to makeup artists wanting a high end foundation that could withstand backstage use and care for women's skin at the same time. It needed to be long wearing, buildable coverage and hydrating. Thus Studio Sculpt was born and has been tested at Fashion Weeks for the past 2 years.

From MAC:

"The easy squeeze tube eliminates waste; just dole out the amount needed for each application. Every drop contains uniquely formulated micronized silicone-coated pigments that keep color true, so it appears to sink into the skin without ever becoming mask-like or cakey. A cushiony gel base helps color slip onto skin for a medium-coverage silky finish. The smooth formula offers ample blending time for near mistake-proof application yet adheres flawlessly and stays in place for hours of beautiful wear. "

Ingredients include yeast extracts, sodiun hyaluronate as well as the shea to boost moisture, Hyberlea Rhodopsensis Leaf Extract, Beet Root and Tamarind Seed for helping skin to be more hydryated overall in the long term, Soft Focus Powders, and Quercus Suber Bark and a PCA that combined with a polymer helps the complexion look tighter and smoother.

So all that means simply that it looks very good. The Mom made off with the tube today and it looked practically flawless on her. She rarely wavers on using her mainstay foundation( which sells for over 50.00 so this could be a big savings) but she gives this big props.

Studio Sculpt is on counter Feb. 8th along with a matching full coverage concealer. The concealer is also a gel-cream formula.

Foundation $ 28.00

Concealer $ $ 16.50

Clinique Turnaround- New products

A longtime skincare favorite of mine is Clinique Total Turnaround Concentrate. I have blogged on it more than once, and it was in this years Favorites post.

This month Clinique came out with a Turnaround Body Cream and 2 more new face products.

The Body Cream is wonderful. A perfect day lotion as it's not greasy or heavy and dries quickly. It's a silky lotion and makes your skin very soft. Made to be a light exfoliator for your skin it also helps with rough elbows( something I needed) and makes skintone more even. It's a medium moisturizer. Not heavy and not light but if your skin is super dry, then as I said, use this in day and layer on a more emollient one at night . I also think it would be great as a foot lotion .

Ingredients include: has Salicylic acid, Urea, Shea Butter, Squalene, a mushroom extract, Vitamin E and Sea Whip extract .

Turnaround Smoothing Body Cream is $ 28.50 for 5 fl oz ( Personally, I'd love to see a bigger tube, but this is a good size ).

Turnaround Instant Facial-

Meant to mimic an at home dermabrasion, but quickly and soothingly. The texture is that of a light scrub .

I used this last night was very impressed. I wasn't really sure what to think, would it be far better than just an exfoliater? Yes. My skin was so smooth and even. It does work super fast, in 5 minutes, which is nice. Great for quick , need to look great NOW moment. It does leave behind a tiny bit of shimmer on the skin, but it's barely there. Basically you apply it, let it sit, then rub off 5 minutes later and you're done. I can't compare this to real microdermabrasion, as I've never had it. Nor for the time being, do I think I need it. This will help keep treatments like that at bay all the more.

$ 36.50 for 2.5 oz

Also new, but not tested is Turnaround Radiance Peel Once-A-Week System.

I am not sure about using a peel. I have samples from other brands and haven't tried them. I don't doubt they work great , so one day I've got to give it a go but I am sticking with the Instant Facial for now.

The Peel System is

8- 3ml vials & Calming Cream .5 fl oz tube $55.00

Kyra Sedgwick at SAGs

Since tonight was a new espisode of The Closer and Kyra Sedgwick so rocks as Brenda , as well as being a fashionista on the red carpet, I thought I'd share her SAG awards look.

She usually looks great and this time as with the Golden Globes went for loose, flowy, pretty hair . She was also sporting black nails which was fun. Emily Blunt also went with black polish. It's still in fashion, friends and I'm glad. I just think it looks elegant even if it's mainstream now.

Her dress was a vintage Chanel couture from the early 80s. What's great is that it doesn't look dated at all. The top might have fit a bit better but then with vintage, it's not like you can tailor/order to size. I did love the flowy bottom. The necklace was gorg. Looked like amethysts and also vintage.

The dress came from Rare Vintage , a high end vintage( i.e. collectible) clothing shop in Manhattan. This is a place I want to go play in for sure ,browse at least.

Guerlain Spring Perfume Releases

Spring heralds many new releases from the House of Guerlain. As a lover of their perfumes( well anything Guerlain , really) I am excited to try all of these. As of yet, I haven't sampled, but plan to when I get to the in store boutique at Bergdorfs next month.

The Muguet I can say is lovely as I have a tiny sample from last year. The most intriguing to me is the new version of Mistsouko.

A good fragrance is an investment and they can be pricey. In these times we all think harder about what we buy. A beautiful bottle of perfume will last forever and always be in style. If you want to treat yourself, this may be the way to do it. No harm either in sampling and adding to your wishlist. Thats what I will do-for now.


March :
La Petite Robe Noire is a celebration of contrasts, between the spiciness of black liquorice and the delicate nature of rose. Sexy, and light as a champagne bubble, the scent features melt-in-your-mouth macaroon, the tang of the Sicilian lemon, a tender almond kiss, and a touch of licorice. An armful of roses adds elegance, while smoked tea and patchouli give it character. And for a soft velvety touch, a caress of Musk and Vanilla. Created by Sylvaine Delacourte & Delphine Jelk.
50 ML EDP. Retail Price: $150.


Shalimar EDP Flower and Eau de Shalimar EDT Flower are limited edition versions of the legendary Shalimar, created to celebrate the most bewitching and sensual note of the classic fragrance: vanilla blossom. Protective of its own rarity, it only blossoms for a few hours at sunrise. In awe of this quiet, intimate moment with vanilla flowers Guerlain set out to capture a second of eternity, etching its blossoms on the Shalimar bottle for two limited editions.
Shalimar EDP Flower Limited Edition- The vanilla blossom on the voluptuous neck of the bottle underscores the perfume’s intensity, then appears in a precious, radiant hallmark - first in midnight blue on the glass of the bottle, then in gold on the packaging which shields its mysterious blossoming from observation. Fragrance created by Jacques Guerlain.




(Edit: there has been some confusion over whether these are new scents or a new bottle. I believe it's just a new special bottle. I have seen a pic but not one that I was able to post here.)

Shalimar Flower EDP 75 ML- Retail Price: $123
Eau de Shalimar EDT Flower- 75 ML EDT. Retail Price: $97

May:

Muguet
May signals the advent of one of Guerlain’s most anticipated annual scents. Featuring an extraction of the essence of lily of the valley for a lively and capricious fragrance, this delicate and penetrating note is immersed in a symphonic heart of jasmine, Turkish rose, lemon and sandalwood.

Created by Jean-Paul Guerlain. 60 ML EDT. Retail Price: $350


Mitsouko Fleur de Lotus
Mitsouko by Guerlain was initially launched in 1919 after the First World War and is one of the most loved fragrances around.
The original masterpiece of fragrant balance created by Jacques Guerlain, subtly unveils its fruity chypre and is renowned in the industry for its short, simple and refined formula.

In celebration of the 90th anniversary of its creation, Jean Paul Guerlain has developed Mitsouko Fleur de Lotus, a fresh reinterpretation of the fragrance with a special fleur de lotus note.

Mitsouko Fleur de Lotus 60 ML EDT. Retail Price : $100.

All perfumes available at Guerlain boutiques:
- The Shoppes at the Palazzo, Las Vegas – 1-866-409-6110.
-Saks Fifth Avenue / Bergdorf Goodman( ask for Jason)/ Waldorf-Astoria, New York City
-Neiman Marcus, San Francisco
-The Bellagio, Las Vegas
-Epcot Center, Orlando
-The Breakers, Palm Beach

Kate Winslet at SAG Awards

Once again Kate Winslet looked amazing at an awards show. I cannot wait for her Oscars night look. She just radiates. Tonight was a stunning gorgeous blue Narciso Rodriguez with hair by Frederic Fekkai stylists and makeup by Jillian Dempsey. Lets not forget those wow earring either. Face framing diamonds by Chopard.

Here's how they got the look :

Makeup-

"Celebrity makeup artist Jillian Dempsey played up Kate’s eyes with lots of black eyeliner, mascara and shimmering shadow paired with a soft neutral palette on her lips and cheeks. Jillian used Lancôme Artliner in Noir on the upper lash line and then lightly dusted Jillian Dempsey Professional for Avon Eyeshadow Trio in Pebble Wash on the eyelid. She finished the eyes with a few coats of Lancôme Ôscillation Mascara in Black. For the lips, she used Serge Lutens nude lip liner and filled in the entire lip. Finally, she applied Color Fever Gloss in Engaging, a very sheer nude shade, for a high-shine pout"

Hair-
"Apply Fekkai More All Day Density Mousse to wet hair for added volume. On the bottom portion only apply Fekkai Coiff Magnifique to ends for a smooth blowout and to protect hair from the heat of styling tools. Using the Fekkai Extra Large Round Brush blow dry hair and part on the right side. Once completely dry, use a one inch curling iron throughout hair to create tousled movement with dimension. Apply Fekkai Technician Glaze to ends working it

through with fingers for texture that is not too heavy. Tease the top of the head ever so slightly to create a touch of height. Next pull hair back into a low

ponytail. Create a loose braid and twist it around to form a bun. Secure with pins. Mak

ing a braid helps to keep the bun from appearing to severe and gives it the soft modern touch."

Total Beauty Weekly Web Tour

Viva Woman found out that extra virgin olive oil is perfect for moisturizing dry hands!

Beauty411 checks out the new Fekkai Salon Color. Will this at-home haircolor make the cut?

Beauty Secrets Revealed shares the Easiest DIY Blackhead Removal Recipe

Nur @ I Love Looking Good thinks The Body Shop Cheek Bloom in Desert Rose is very pretty.

Makeup Bag went to the Sundance Film Festival! Check out all the celebrity sightings and tips on how to recreate their makeup looks at Makeup Bag.

Beauty Anonymous brings you Givenchy Spring 2009 Limited-edition Collection.

It's time to do it yourself! Head on over to Makeup Files and learn how to give yourself a French manicure from the comfort of your fabulous home.

You are personally invited by CaliforniaCosmetics to the Origins Youthtopia Facial Event! Complimentary facials, refreshments, gifts, and a chance to win a giveaway prize worth $177.00!!

Beauty Junkies Unite goes a little retro in the haircare department. Does Aussie haircare still have it like they did back then?

Beauty's SPOT dyes her hair down there with BettyBeauty. Who doesn't want paraben-free, amonium-free, hair dye for their who-ha?

I Heart Heels is in love with Cat Cosmetics, created by One Life to Live star Catherine Hickland. Read the interview here!

The Makeup Divas tells you about three high performing hair products that will keep your color/highlighted hair looking it's best.

Fabulous Over Forty tests Maybelline XXL Volume and Length mascara. See if it meets or exceeds her expectations.

Monique at Beauty Girl Musings shares her love of a new product that is keeping her hair in fabulous condition! Find out what it is!

Alison of the Advice Sisters is really trying to exercise and eat healthy, but just in case that fails, she's discoveredother ways to slim your shape, instantly!

Indian Girl has the best frizz control product for the cast of LOST and a Giveaway for you !

Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog had another Manic Monday and is giving away a necklace valued at $200. Enter now!

Get Softlips in time for Valentine's Day Enter the GIVEAWAY to win free Softlips PURE.

The girls over at Beauty in Real Life are having another giveaway. Click here for your chance to win an Anastasia Highlighting Brow Kit!

Michelle Obama Wears a Yellow Dress by Isabel Toledo & Inaugural Ball Gown Designed by Jason Wu-by Talking Makeup!

The Beauty Alchemiststrong> shows swatched and photos of Guerlain Spring 09 collection

eye4style kisses problem skin goodbye with the new exfoliating cleanser from Kiss My Face. Check out her review here!

Want to win a great Softlips prize pack? Bare Budget Beauty is giving you the chance to win one! Click here!


Beauty Blogging Junkie interviewed LOST's makeup artist Emily Katz. Click here to find out how she creates and a natural looking "island look" and keeps the ladies of LOST shine-free on-set!

Boutique Flair reviews something you can plan your outfit, hair and makeup around! You'll be a trendsetting fashionista if you win this set of bracelets from 1928 Jewelry! Good luck!

Glossypink has incorporated oil into her cleansing routine--how about you?

Blaq Vixen Beauty recently had an opportunity to review the best tweezers in the cosmetic industry ! Find out why On-Makeup Magazine boasted these tweezers as a "comprehensive and beautifully crafted collection."

Spoiled Pretty is hosting two amazing giveaways this week: five winners will receive a Freeze 24-7 Jet Set Travel Kit and three lucky ladies will win a lotta good hair days, thanks to No Frizz by Living Proof.

Partied too hard? Drank too much wine? Got puffy eyes? ThisThatBeauty says TRY THIS!!!

Hot Beauty Health reveals how to get smooth and healthy skin on a tight budget.

Beauty Am Eye discovers face wipesthat will banish breakouts!

makeup loves me shares her secret to making her (dyed) red hair stay red!

American Express Fashion Week Skybox Returns

For the past few seasons American Express has had a Skybox overlooking the tents for Fashion Week. Media is able to tour it, but I wasn't able to get in there last time. I am working on setting up a time for the next one .

If you are interested , or want to see what it's like here are the details and some pictures :

__________________________________
American Express is still committed to supporting the industry in a big way. Cardmembers once again have the opportunity to experience Fashion Week as an insider, viewing the runway shows from the exclusive and newly-designed American Express® Skybox. Packages available now at www.americanexpress.com/entertainment.

Bringing their presence to stylish new heights, this season’s Skybox will be designed by Jonathan Adler, design expert and lead judge on Bravo TV’s Top Design. Adler will bring his unique aesthetic to create a stylish environment that blends runway trends with home décor.

-Insider Insights and Experiences:
American Express will connect Cardmembers with some of their favorite designers and take them deep into the world of fashion through unforgettable events and activities. Celebrity stylist and fashion expert Kate Nobelius will be the host of this season’s Skybox, watching all the shows with Cardmembers and providing an insider perspective on the ins and outs of Fashion Week. Top-tier designers will also be in the Skybox to meet with Cardmembers and showcase their latest items, available exclusively for Cardmembers to order. And, there will be surprise visits throughout the week from other noteworthy fashion experts and designers!

-Renewing Support of the Fashion Industry:
American Express is continuing its support of designers and the fashion industry with a $250,000 donation to the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund (CVFF). The CVFF program helps emerging American design talent find continued success in the business of fashion by providing ongoing support. As part of the relationship, American Express executives will work with the CFDA to share business expertise and best practices with CVFF recipients to help further enhance and build their businesses.

Estee Lauder Nutritious Mineral Makeup & Fleur de Lys Powder

Estee Lauder's entry into Mineral Makeup has launched. It's called Nutritious and comes in both a liquid and powder version. Both are good foundations, it just depends on preference and skin type.

Nutritious has many good for you ingredients including Pomegranate extract, Vitamins C & E, Iron, Potassium and Magnesium. They are SPF 15 .

The liquid is medium coverage. It gives a dewy look with a natural finish. This is best for normal to dry skins. It is very soft and applies easily.

The powder, my personal choice, is the go to for oilier skins or those who prefer powder foundations. It is not drying in any way and has a fuller coverage than the liquid. It's medium to full coverage. The jar is large and comes ith it's own brush, but you can easily use a puff or your own brush as well. You don't need a lot of it for coverage and it blends quicky.

It does give the skin a soft focus look.

Estee Lauder has put microsphere powders in both formulas to help achieve this.

Nutritious Vita -Mineral Loose Powder Makeup is $ 33.50( currently online & exclusive to Nordstrom)

Nutritious Vita-Mineral Liquid Makeup $ 33.50( on counter in Feb.)

I also have a close up of the so pretty new Fleur De Lys Shimmer powder for Spring. This gives a great soft pink glow. The fuschia is an overspray and comes off. The powder color does go perfectly with the new Mayfair Mauve lipstick. I never thought I would wear that color, but it looks pretty nice. The two together make a very bright , soft look. ( I use the powder as a blush).

Guerlain Spring 08 -Exotic Paradise

Guerlain's new Spring colleciton called Exotic Paradise is on counters now and well worth checking out. The quality of the makeup is outstanding and the colors for Spring are so bright and fun.

I tried the eyeshadows for the first time. I am not sure how I never used Guerlain shadows, since I use and love the Kiss Kiss Lipsticks, Parure foundation, Terracotta, and of course the perfumes.

The eyeshadows are not flaky or soft. These have a solid consistency which means loads of pigment and they stay put. Thats the wow for me, as you will know if you are a regular reader. I have eyeshadow melt. Ones that hold up well make me so happy and these did. The colors being so pretty didn't hurt either. Shown are L'Instant Charnel- a golden pale peach and L'Instant Emeraude- a deep green,with a hint of olive in it. I love my greens .

There are 10 eyeshadow shades in all .

The Kiss Kiss Maxi Shine lipstick comes in 4 shades. This is a high gloss finish lipstick. Shown is Grenadine Shine , a medium Coral. The shade seen all over the runways for Spring.

The Kiss Kiss glosses come in some more unique shades like Pomme du Desir. Yes it is sort of green. A lemon yellow -green and on it is surprisingly pretty. I did my best to swatch it for you. They are very sheer. It goes on very sparkly and more gold than green. Really hard to describe but definitely nicer than you think. I really like it. I also have Orange Interdite, which is light orange with large glitter pieces. These glossess are all beautiful.

There are quite a few other products and you can see them all at your nearest counter or at Nordstrom, Bloomingdales , Neimans and Saks online.

Mono eyeshadow $ 34.00

Kiss Kiss Maxi Shine and regular lip $30.00

Kiss Kiss Gloss $ 29.00

Michael Kors Very Pretty & Island Bermuda

It's no secret around here that I tend to love the Michael Kors perfumes. When new ones come out , I am right there to test them. 2 new ones have been released in the last couple months.

Very Pretty is aquatic with lots of freesia and less of the tuberose of the previous Michael Kors . The tuberose comes out more into the drydown but is still light. Very Pretty is a dewy floral to my nose. This is said to be an interpretation of the original Michael Kors Sheer. Sheer is a huge favorite of mine and this is very different with a few similarities if that makes sense. Sheer is very floral and very tuberose.

Very Pretty stays fairly close to the skin and is a fresh, light scent.

Notes:

Freesia, Tamarind, Chinese Osmanthus, Incense, Tuberose, White Wings Peony, Blue Orris, Arum Lilies, Cashmere Woods, Musk, Vetiver Haiti, Bergamot, Sandalwood, Jasmine.

$75.00 for 1.7 oz

Island Bermuda is next in the series of Island scents . My favorite is the citrus/orange blossom Hawaii but they are all nice. This one like a few of the others were, is LE.

Bermuda is very floral and also has freesia in the opening and the tropical-ness of Hibiscus . The Passion Flower is there too and as it dries down just a hint of the woods. It ends up very Spring bouquet like. Soft, pretty, almost a comfort scent at times. I like it.

Notes:

Freesia, Hibiscus, Cassis Buds, Tiare, Peony, Jasmine, Passion Flower, Driftwood, Soft Skin Accord, Cedar

$ 62.00 for 1.7 oz

Both new scents are available at major department stores or at Sephora online only.

LORAC Breakthrough Performance Foundation

Having had a sample for some time, I decided to finally give LORAC’s Breakthrough Performance foundation a good try. I had tested it in warmer weather and it wasn't matte enough for my oily skin. Now that it's colder I thought it might work better. My skin is still oily right now, but not nearly what it was in fall.

The foundation is an anti-aging one that has a radiance to it on the skin. In other words my skin looked bright almost as if I had already used a highlighter mixed in with my foundation. It was very pretty. The foundation looked much better now in the cool months and for drier skins it would really be lovely. The coverage is medium, and it does cover well, but some concealer was still needed on a spot or two. Nothing major. The formula is thin, so one thing I have noticed is that it takes a few minutes to "set" on your skin. I don't like how it looks right off, but if I wait a few minutes , go do something, when I come back - much better. My skin looks really good and vibrant. I like that. For winter I think I will be using this more often.

The foundation has a host of great ingredients for your skin and better yet few bad ones. There are no parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, petro-chemicals, or phthalates

According to LORAC's website:

"Oil-Free Anti-Aging Foundation with SMS Complex and SPF14 combines pre-aging, anti-aging, hydrating, and smoothing ingredients along with antioxidants to help skin appear youthful, rejuvenated, and radiant. "

$ 38.00 for 1 oz.

http://www.loraccosmetics.com/ and at Sephora, Ulta, Beauty.com

LUSH Chinese New Year Emotibomb

A new Emotibomb from Lush debuts for the Chinese New Year. The Emotibombs are fun and this one comes in one of Lush's most popular scents.

Double Fast Luck Emotibomb was created especially for the Chinese New Year. It is scented with the Karma scent and designed in the shape of a symbolic, lucky coin. Placed on the floor of your shower it releases the spicy-orange scent of Karma. ( and we all need good Karma, don't we ?).

It's also a popular item as online it is out of stock. If you're wanting one, hit up your nearest Lush store soon.

$ 3.95

Urban Decay Sin Primer Potion

Most everyone loves Primer Potion from Urban Decay, well how about a tinted Primer Potion? It's called Sin and is out now. Sin is the same Primer Potion but with a champagne tint that means you can leave it on your eyes as is for subtle color or use with your eyeshadow. Urban Decay also recommends putting it on as your day look and then for evening apply your deep shades over it. It's already in place and ready to go. Doubles as a highlighter too.

A win, win, no ?

This is not out yet, but should be very shortly at: at Sephora, Ulta and Macys West.

$ 17.00

Total Beauty Weekly Web Tour

Enter to win a Prescriptives Lash Envy Gift Set from Beauty Junkies Unite!

Fabulous Over Forty gives you the details on the Golden Globe makeup looks of Kate Winslet, Angelina Jolie and Anne Hathaway.

Makeup Bag gets a sneak peek at the NEW! CoverGirl LashBlast Luxe shimmery volumizing mascara in four gorgeous shades.

Boutique Flair gives you 3 reasons to buy eyeshadow trios - and some fab finds, of course!

Nur @ I Love Looking Good wants to share her secret to flawless skin with the Ez's Skincare Giveaway

Viva Woman shows you how to make your own DIY homemade lip scrub to exfoliate for soft smooth kissable lips!

Beauty Anonymous reviews the Lady Dior palette from Dior spring 2009 collection.

The Makeup Divas is giving away two sets of the China Glaze Romantique Collection. So hurry on over to enter now!

Frappelattes tries and reviews Get Lost weight control tea by The Republic of Tea. It helped her lose the weight gained over the holidays!

Want to jump start your skin care? Beauty411 loves the new Clinique Turnaround Radiance Peel Once-A-Week System. Check out her review!

Be a doll and enter our latest giveaway at Beauty 365! Up for grabs is a Carol's Daughter Fragrance Oil Gift Set valued at $40 -- enter today!

Don't just eat your antioxidants, get them via the most luxe beauty booty too! eye4style breaks down the best products with Acai!

StyleBell shows you how to pull off a beautiful double bun updo hairstyle as seen on celebrities on the red carpet!

Beauty Beast details some of the products from MAC's Dame Edna Collection with pictures and swatches.

Find out how to get Demi Moore's Golden Globe Red Carpet Look. She was A Mom in Red High Heels favorite celebrity look this year!

makeup loves me meets stacy from "what not to wear" and gets her tips on her how to be a frugalista!

Monique at Beauty Girl Musings has found a fabulous product that helps her makeup last all day! Find out what it is!

Trisha over at Makeup Files is set on giving us some inspiration with her latest post all about staying cute, even without makeup.

Hot Beauty Health shows you how to glam up your makeup look for the night.

ThisThatBeauty gets an advanced viewing of Three Custom Color Specialists' sexy new collection THE L WORD. Check out Felicia as she models all four shades - Bette, Kit, Alice and Shane. After seeing these beautiful shades you will want to pre-order yours TODAY!

Find the best wrinkle-resistant, no-iron blouses from Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains.

Find out what helps keep Jenn over at Beauty in Real Life from the the winter bugs and moisturizes her hands at the same time!

Glossypink has the stunning pictures from Blake Lively's Vogue photo shoot!

The Beauty Alchemist visits with Bond 9 ‘s Brooklyn Perfume

Alison of the Advice Sisters reviews the hot new book that can change the way you shop, forever, called: Life In Color: The Visual Therapy Guide to the Perfect Palette.

Spoiled Pretty is partnering with Havaianas for a sandalicious giveaway". One winner will receive four pairs of sandals - from Havaianas' 2009 collection!

Indian Girl talks about Bollywood's and hers new favorite foundation

Butterfly Diary scores an exclusive and very inspiring interview with internet celebrity and journalist Julia Allison

Valentino Bouquet d'Ete Handbag

So I am innocuously hitting the Neiman Marcus site to check out more info on the Darphin lip balm I posted on yesterday, and what do I see- this amazing Valentino tote. Why do I always go for the most expensive bags? Well it's well out of the budget but I think it's a beauty.

It's called the Bouquet d'Ete bag and is made from printed taffeta. What strikes me is how vintage it looks and I am sure I could find something antique that just may be similar. I now have a mission for the next antiques show I go to, which should be sometime this month. I haven't been to one in awhile.

The Bouquet d'Ete bag sells for $ 1,595.00 and is only pre-order at the moment.

Darphin Age Defying Lip Balm

French skincare line Darphin has released new Age Defying Lip Balm. Darphin is known for amazing skincare and although I have yet to try this new balm, I imagine it's pretty good. I would be happy to try it next time I am near a Darphin counter.

It is also expensive at $ 40.00.

You may think 40.00 for a lip balm? Yes it's a lot, but not only does it have a super moisturizing ingredient list,( including super hot Argan oil, shown to be one of the best oils to really get into the skin) it also may be just the thing you need to treat yourself to. Something that will get your lips through these extremely cold temps we've been having and be uber-luxe at the same time. I've said before, it's up to each person how they spend their money. I happily pass on the info, since little makes me as happy as beauty news. You take it from there .

According to Darphin the balm "has a soft and sensual scent which has been carefully composed to deliver feelings of well-being and pampering. The delicate fragrance is comprised of vanilla, Gaïac Wood, and essential oils from sweet almond, plum, orange and rosewood. "

Ingredients include:

-Plum Oil: Harvested in French farmlands, rich in unsaturated acids and vitamin E.

- Kokum Butter: Culled from fields just south of India, it is known as the ultimate emollient.

-Mango Butter: Gathered in India, this repairs the epidermis and improves the skin barrier.

- Sunflower Oil: Sourced from the United States, this oil is revered for its medicinal virtues and is loaded with vitamins E and F.

-Maxi Lip™: This peptide stimulates the natural synthesis of collagen, acting as a cellular messenger that improves the density of the skin and diminishes the appearance of wrinkles.

-Organic Argan Oil & Rosemary Oil: Together, these form a natural antioxidant complex that neutralizes free radicals and helps to protect the lips from aging.

Available at http://www.darphin.com/ , http://www.neimanmarcus.com/

and everywhere Darphin is sold

CK One re-launches with We are One campaign

Calvin Klein's iconic scent CK One is re-launching January 20th- Inauguaration Day. A new ad campaign shot by Stephen Meisel joins a new song written by model/musician Jamie Burke and will be available on iTunes for free as well as on http://www.ckone.com/ . The ads will feature people of all skintones and sizes and the bottle will be emblazoned with We are one.

There will be a new, fun LE package that includes an MP3 speaker with the bottle.

If this was a fav of yours, now might be the time to re-stock. Retail is $50.00.

An all-over body spray will be lauching as well for $ 26.00.

MAC Hello Kitty

At last I can share with you all the details of the MAC Hello Kitty collection. I was at a pre- release event in November and have had to wait since then to share. No doubt you will be seeing this info a lot of places today. I have some pics of my own of some of the items to give a better( I hope) idea of them. For instance the blue-purple shade in the Lucky Tom quad is really very purple, not blue like most photos incl. my own look. Lucky Tom also includes one of my all time favorite MAC shadows- Paradisco.

The Beauty Powder in Tahitian Sand is perfect for winter pale faces. It gives such a subtle touch of color , just enough to warm the skintone up a bit.

I also love both new Beauty Powder blushes and the lipglass in Nice to be Nice- a semi-sheer, jelly orange shade. ( This is a new formula ).

The accessories are so fun. I was not a big Hello Kitty fan before, but I do love my MAC, so I am enjoying all these. The cases are not just cute but are roomy. There are fun touches too, like the kiity face embossed on the lipsticks and powders. There are 2 color stories: Mild Kitty and Wild Kitty.
There is also a Kitty Couture collection that info isn't out on yet that will include Crystal encrusted compacts like the one in my picture.

So here are all the colors , and some prices. The release date is Feb. 12 . Have fun.

Mild Kitty:
LIPSTICK
Cutester -Sheer peachy pink with pearl
Big Bow- Sheer bright intense blue pink
Fresh Brew- Creamed coffee
LIPGLASS
Sweet Strawberry- Sheer berry with blue pearl
Mimmy Light -creamy pink with pink and gold pearl
Nice to be Nice- Sheer bright intense orange with pearl
-TINTED LIP CONDITIONER
Popster -Lively Coral Pink
EYE SHADOW x 4: LUCKY TOM
Stylin ’-Midtone violet blue with multi-dimensional pearl
Lucky Tom- Dark charcoal brown with gold pearl
Crème Royale- Yellow wheat gold
Paradisco- Soft bright pinky-coral with golden shimmer
Retail Price $38.00
GLITTER EYE LINER
Her Glitz -Blackened gold with multi-dimensional glitter
Glitterpuss- Orangey bronze with
multi-dimensional glitter
Kitty Power -Pink with multi-dimensional glitter
Girl Groove- Clear/white teal reflects and
multi-dimensional glitter
PLUSH LASH
Plushblack Black
BEAUTY POWDER BLUSH
Fun & Games- Soft orange peach
BEAUTY POWDER
Tahitian Sand -Soft coral peach
Retail Price $22.00
LASH
Hello Kitty Lash Half lash with overlapping hairs
to emphasize outer

Wild Kitty:
LIPSTICK
Fashion Mews-Sheer pale lavender
Strayin ’ -Frosty midtone mint
Most Popular -Sheer deep berry
LIPGLASS
Nice Kitty -Sheer neon pink with blue pearl
She Loves Candy -Pale blue pink with gold pearl
Fast Friends -Sheer bright intense purple with pearl
TINTED LIP CONDITIONER
Pink Fish- Soft Neutral Pink

EYE SHADOW x 4: TOO DOLLY
Too Doll-y Frosty midtone mint
Stately Black- Rich blue with silver sparkle
Yogurt -Soft pale pink
Romping- Rich magenta with pink pearl

PIGMENT
Milk-Frosty pale silvery pink
Deep Blue Green- Rich, deep bluish green
REFLECTS GLITTER
Reflects Blue -Sparkling Blue
Reflects Very Pink -sparkling fushcia pink
BEAUTY POWDER BLUSH
Tippy- Midtone blue pink
BEAUTY POWDER
Pretty Baby -Soft sunny pink with gold
NAIL LACQUER
Something About Pink -Blue pink fuchsia
On the Prowl -Light creamy grey
Vestral White- Creamy white

M∙A∙C HELLO KITTY TOTE-online only
Rectangular tote bag with collaboration inspired
graphics and logo.
Retail Price $45.00 U.S./$54.00 CDN
M∙A∙C HELLO KITTY PETITE MAKEUP BAG
Small soft train case silhouette with full zip closure.
S Retail Price $22.00 U.S./$26.50 CDN
M∙A∙C HELLO KITTY MAKEUP BAG-online only
Medium soft train case silhouette with full zip closure.
Retail Price $35.00 U.S./$42.00 CDN
M∙A∙C HELLO KITTY SOFT VANITY CASE-online only
Large soft train case silhouette with full zip closure.
Fabric is black vinyl with pink and white
collaboration logo.
Retail Price $55.00 U.S./$66.00 CDN
M∙A∙C HELLO KITTY PURSE MIRROR-online only
Compact inspired by collaboration; interior contains
standard mirror on 1 side and magnifying mirror on
alternate side.
Retail Price $22.00 U.S./$26.00 CDN
M∙A∙C HELLO KITTY BRUSH COLLECTION- Nordstrom,online and MAC stores only.
Round plastic jar inspired by collaboration that holds 3
SE brushes with blank handles.
187SE Duo Fibre Brush
109SE Small Contour Brush
239SE Eye Shade Brush
Retail Pric e $49.50 U.S./$58.00 CDN
M∙A∙C HELLO KITTY MIRRORED KEY CLIP-online only
Bag zipper clip with 2 charms inspired by collaboration;
key chain and mini mirror.
Retail Pric e $16.00 U.S./$19.50 CDN
M∙A∙C HELLO KITTY BEADED BRACELET-online only
Black beaded bracelet with 3 charms;
inspired by collaboration
Retail Pric e $34.00 U.S./$40.00 CDN
M∙A∙C HELLO KITTY PLUSH DOLL-Nordstrom, online and MAC stores only
14” plush doll in black, pink and white nylon.
Retail Price $42.00 U.S./$50.00

Urban Decay Cream Shadows & 24/7 Liners for Spring

For Spring Urban Decay has released some rockin' new products and new shades in old favorites.

First up is the new Cream Eyeshadow. 12 shades, packaged in a squeeze tube with retro 70s hip graphics it has a doe foot wand inside for application or you can use a brush.

These are highly pigmented and very creamy. If you want bold color, then go for Grass, the emerald green shade. I love it. It's strong and not for the faint hearted, but it's a wow. Might not be the one I wear everyday but I will sneak it in somewhere.

The purple shade - Delinquent , is almost a smoky purple after it had dried on the eyes. Pretty by itself , it can also be part of a great smoky eye. Weeds is a nice medium green and Suburbia a medium bronze/brown. ( All but Weeds is shown shown in my pic).

The Cream shadows need time to dry, so apply and let dry or give a hit with the blowdryer. They take a minute. Then add on other eye products.

Also new are 4 shades of the popular 24/7 eyeliner pencils. Thats always cause for excitment amongst makeup mavens. They are right up this bright eyeliner collector's alley. The bronze shade Lucky has been a staple here for years. Right now I am loving, yes you guessed it, the green Graffiti. A pure Emerald. The purple Ransom is hot too. It's very bright. If you like teal theres Flipside which is gorgeous, and I also tried Underground, brown but not basic. Again, all are swatched in pic .

All are online now at http://www.urbandecay.com/ and will be in stores like Sephora, Ulta and Macys West on Feb. 1st. Perfect to add a little color to your world.

Cream shadows, $17.00 in 12 shades

24/7 Eye Pencils $ 16.00

Part 2 Urban Decay- the new Sin pigmented Primer Potion , coming shortly.

Brooklyn from Bond 9 Perfumes

Brooklyn is the new scent from Bond 9 perfumes. The next in their series of NYC neighborhoods.


It is very unisex and like so many of their scents, very well done.

It begins with a burst Cardomom and Juniper. Even though Grapefruit is listed as the main top note, I get very little citrus here. A hint of very new, clean leather joins in midway. Brooklyn has a metallic edge to it and the Cardamom is present throughout right into the drydown. It is not an exotic fragrance but cool and mostly masculine. Thats not to say women can't wear it. It is easily worn on a woman.

Brooklyn has good lasting power and light to medium sillage.

The bottle is a graffiti printed clear bottle , meant to evoke street art.

Notes per Bond 9:

Top:
-Zesty, fresh-cutGrapefruit
-Cardamom

Middle:
Tranquil Cypress-wood - picture
-Koi Pond in the Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Geranium Leaves drifting along the DUMBO
waterfront
-Juniper Berries with the whiff of gin in a
Williamsburg martini

Bottom:
-The Cedarwood scent of a Fort Greene antiques shop
-Leather that’s redolent of Red Hook
-The tender-hearted tea-rose-esque aroma of Guaiacwood

Brooklyn EDP is 220.00 for 100ml and 145.00 for 50ml

Release is March 2009.
http://www.bondno9.com/

America Ferrera at Golden Globes

Yes, even more makeup info from the big awards night. Makeup artist Linda Hay( who often does the Victoria's Secret Models) did the makeup for America Ferrera using mainly Jouer Cosmetics.

Her lip color is so perfect for her here.

From Ms. Hay:

"The look was inspired by America’s effortlessly chic Oscar de la Renta dress, I kept her look sweet and simple,” said celebrity make-up artist, Linda Hay. Linda used Jouer’s Age Repairing Brightener around the eye and on the nose to illuminate America’s eyes. “The skin, I kept as sheer as possible by using as little as possible. I like to cover whatever's required without over doing it because America has beautiful skin,” Linda said. On the cheeks, using finger-tip application, Linda applied Jouer’s Lip and Cheek Tint in Amaryllis, a sheer warm read which blended in to compliment America’s skin tone. On her eyes I applied a light and sheer shimmer all over the lid and inner corner of the eye, with a metallic silver shadow in the crease. Using a black pencil, Linda applied a thin, defined line right above her lashes. Linda applied 3 coats of Dior Blackout mascara to America’s eyes to make them pop"

Products used: Jouer’s Age-repairing brightener – medium ($32), Jouer’s Lip and Cheek Tint Amaryllis ($20),

Laura Linney's look at Golden Globes

More makeup details from last nights awards. This time one of my favorite actresses, Laura Linney. She is so talented and usually looks good. Last night she was very radiant with bright,natural makeup. Part of her look included drugstore staple and budget friendly Physicians Formula as well as can't go wrong with it Dior.

Done by Physicians Formula makeup artist Joanna Schlip:
( I especially love the blush here)

-Skin Care: La Mer The Mist, La Mer The Moisturizing Lotion, La Mer The Lip Balm
-Foundation: DiorSkin Pure Light in Light Beiged
-Concealer: DiorSkin Sculpt Lifting Smoothing Concealer in Beige
-Powder: Physicians Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin Pressed Powder in Buff Beige Organics.
-Bronzer: Physicians Formula Bronze Boost Glow-Boosting Pressed Bronzer in Light to Medium

-Blush: Physicians Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin 2-in-1 Bronzer and Blush in Light Bronzer / Pink Rose
-Eye Shadow: Physicians Formula Shimmer Strips in Miami Strip, $12.95
-Eye Liner: Physicians Formula Eye Definer Felt-Tip Eye Marker in Soft Black, $6.95 / Dior -Crayon Eyeliner - Waterproof Trinidad Black 094 (Jet Black)
-Brows: Dior Powder Brow Pencil in Blonde
-Mascara: DiorShow
-Lips: Dior Addict Ultra Gloss in A Lick of Taffy / Dior Contour Lip Liner in Nude Rose
-Highlights / Contour: Physicians Formula Shimmer Strips in Sunkissed Glow (Highlighter), & Physicians Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin 2-in-1 Bronzer and Blush in Light -Bronzer / Pink Rose
-Body: MAC Strobe Cream