The Beauty of Life

Creature Comfort: Clinique Deep Comfort Hand and Cuticle Cream

2009-11-23T09:00:00.003-05:00

It's rare for me to find a moisturizer that doesn't make my hands feel slick and slippery. Too many of them claim to sink into the skin immediately but leave behind a greasy sheen -- not so great when I need to use my hands for typing all day! Not so with Clinique Deep Comfort Hand and Cuticle Cream.

This lotion sinks into the skin relatively quickly, leaving behind nothing but super-soft and smooth skin with no hint of grimy residue. Only a dime-sized amount is enough to cover both hands and protect them against the elements -- pretty perfect as the weather in New York has been ever so strange recently. Not to mention that ingredients like Vitamins E and C and barley extract work to condition and moisturize the skin.

My only complaint is that it doesn't really work for the 12 full hours it promises. I do have to reapply a couple times a day -- so I think it's a misconception to print that on the label. But all in all, I've been quite pleased with the results!

Clinique Deep Comfort Hand and Cuticle Cream retails for $17.50.

My New Favorite Hairstyle: Jennie Garth's Futuristic Helmet and Side Braid Combo

2009-11-21T12:48:00.002-05:00

Bravo, Jennie Garth. You have singlehandedly brought me my favorite hairstyle of the year. I am in love with the futuristic helmet-like 'do she sported at the Los Angeles premiere of The Twilight Saga: New Moon this week ... because, peeking out from the sides, there were two intricate French braids. I love how innovative and fun this hairstyle is -- such a new and inventive way to spice up the bob. She's shown here with none other than her hubby Peter Facinelli, who of course plays Dr. Carlisle Cullen in the series.

What say you of the look? Do you love it or hate it? Let me know in the comments!

Around the Beauty Blogosphere

2009-11-21T10:48:00.002-05:00

Check out my latest fave posts from Around the Beauty Blogosphere!

Find out what makeup artist Vanessa Scali used to create Ashley Greene's look at the New Moon premiere -- and enter for a chance to win all the products at the Lancome blog!

Win a bevy of products from brands including Benefit, Sephora and GoSmile, courtesy of my gal Felicia Sullivan.

If you love Essie (and who doesn't?), visit the brand's very own just-launched blog!

One of my fave brands, Benefit, has a fairly new blog. (Did you know about it? It rocks.) Check out their post on how to cover up mid-week partying -- those three martinis on Wednesday can be your little secret.

The Votivo Candle Experience, Volume 1: Greenpepper Coriander

2009-11-20T15:00:00.002-05:00

I have what some might consider an unhealthy obsession with candles. Gals like my friend Felicia understand it at once -- but some people may balk at the sight of 40+ candles lining the windowsills of my bathroom, bedroom, living room, kitchen ... you get the point. But when I got the opportunity to test out a few of Votivo's new Color Collection, I simply jumped. First up: Greenpepper Coriander.

Each of the candles in this collection is inspired by the color that it represents. Greenpepper Coriander is spicy and tart without being overpowering. It has a subtle zest and tang that fills up a room but doesn't overwhelm it -- not an easy feat with notes of cilantro, fresh lemons and dark green peppers! I honestly did not know what to expect when I first started burning it -- to be frank, I thought I would hate it. Luckily, I've found that this scent has a calming effect -- especially nice at the end of a long workday.

The packaging is simple and classic but with a touch of elegance. I love the engraved silver top that sits over the vibrant glass green jar. Best of all, this candle has a 50-hour burn time, so I can enjoy it for many days and weeks to come!

The Votivo Color Candle in Greenpepper Coriander retails for $25.

Beauty Question: How Many Coats of Mascara Do You Apply Every Day?

2009-11-20T12:00:00.001-05:00

If you're like me, you like a lot of lashes. When I apply mascara, I like my lashes to be so long and full that they hit my glasses. This usually requires at least two coats -- three if I'm going for extra drama. So my beauty question of the day is this: How many coats of mascara do you apply every day? Let me know in the comments!

Yay or Nay: Leighton Meester's Heavy Makeup at the American Eagle Outfitters Flagship Opening

2009-11-20T09:00:00.003-05:00

Well, wow. There's really no other word to describe Gossip Girl star Leighton Meester's unbelievably heavy makeup at the American Eagle Outfitters flagship store opening in Times Square this week. The mountains of bluish-purple shadow around her eyes, anchored by copper on the lids and finished with a bright red mouth? I'm really not feeling it. It just feels way too space age-y for my taste.

But what say you? Is this look a yay or a nay? Let me know in the comments!

Beauty Question: What Nail Polish Are You Wearing Today?

2009-11-19T09:23:00.002-05:00

Fess up, fellow beauty chicks -- what nail polish are you wearing today? I'm sporting Laura Mercier Nail Lacquer in Sterling Silver -- maybe a bit too holiday, but hey, I don't mind bringing the bling a little early! Let me know your polish choice in the comments!

Nice Ring: Marc Jacobs Lola Solid Perfume Ring

2009-11-18T18:26:00.005-05:00

All the single ladies (all the single ladies)
All the single ladies (all the single ladies)
All the single ladies (all the single ladies)
All the single ladies, now put your hands up

Wha-oh-oh-oh-oh-ooh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh
Wha-oh-oh-oh-oh-ooh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh

Wha-oh-oh
Cause if you like it then you shoulda put a ring on it
If you like it then you shoulda put a ring on it
Don't be mad once you see that he want it
If you like it then you shoulda put a ring on it

Wha-oh-oh

I can't help it ... staring at my favorite new accessory, the Marc Jacobs Lola Solid Perfume Ring, just puts this song in my head.

Now, this was something that could have gone one of two ways. It could have either turned out unbelievably tacky or unbelievably chic. Luckily, it errs on the side of the latter. The ring itself is constructed of multicolored enamel pieces, elegantly shaped into a blooming flower that sits upon the hand and commands attention. Case in point: within seconds of showing up to work with it on, it had already garnered compliments from five of my coworkers! And it even comes in its own little purple leather pouch for safekeeping.

The scent is discreetly contained within the ring -- just swing it out to reveal a hollowed-out core. All the notes of the regular fragrance are here -- pink peppercorn, pear, ruby red grapefruit, rose, fuchsia peony, geranium, vanilla, warm tonka bean and creamy musk. The result is a sexy, sensual fragrance with just a hint of girly playfulness.

The Marc Jacobs Lola Solid Perfume Ring retails for $42.

Beauty Question: How Much Do You Spend On Beauty Each Month?

2009-11-17T12:00:00.001-05:00

Fess up, fellow beauty chicks. How much do you spend on average each month on beauty products? If you're like me, you find it impossible to walk out of a Sephora without dropping at least $80, so it's probably fairly high. I'd say on average I spend about $300 every month, including any spa treatments. Let me know your number in the comments!

Beauty Giveaway: Davines Alchemic Shampoo and Conditioner

2009-11-17T06:37:00.005-05:00

If you want lustrous, shiny locks, look no further than the new Davines Alchemic Shampoo and Conditioner. Formulated for both natural and color-treated tresses, this collection is designed to add new life to your hair color. Shades include:

Red: for red/mahogany hair
Golden: for golden/honey blonde hair
Copper: for coppery/brown hair
Silver: for gray hair and for hair that has turned yellow due to decoloring or long exposure to the sun
Chocolate: for dark brown/black hair
Tobacco: for mid/light brown hair

Davines Alchemic Shampoo boosts shine and locks in color with milk proteins, vegetable extracts and Vitamins A and B. Olive oil derivatives maintain moisture while UV filters protect hair at the cuticle to preserve color intensity.

Davines Alchemic Conditioner hydrates and boosts your shade with a blend of moisture-enhancing Vitamin E, color maintaining pigment enhancers and hydrolyzed milk proteins (which deep condition, add shine and prevent split ends).

And now one lucky reader has the chance to win a shampoo and conditioner of your color choice, valued at $51! Simply enter your name, email address and color preference (taken from the list above) in the box below. The winner will be selected on Sunday, November 22 and notified by email. It's that simple!

This giveaway is open to US residents only. Giveaway runs until Saturday, November 21 at midnight. One entry per person, email address and IP address. Multiple entries will be disqualified.

The Inside Scoop: Lady Gaga's Nails in the Bad Romance Video

2009-11-16T13:46:00.006-05:00

Have you seen Lady Gaga's new video for Bad Romance? It's seriously amazing -- here's the video in case you've been living under a rock:

Now, if you're like me, you're wondering about the various nail looks in the video. Luckily, I got the inside scoop from following the amazing manicurist, Kimmie Kyees, on Twitter! Check out pics she snapped of two of the looks and what she had to say about them:

Kimmie used OPI Alpine Snow Matte Nail Polish to create this look

Black nails covered with mesh

Pretty cool, right?

Winter Color Suggestions from ION Studio's Naomi Knights

2009-11-16T11:02:00.005-05:00

I have a treat for you today, fellow beauty chicks! I've got the scoop on winter color tips, courtesy of ION Studio's Director of Color Education, the fabulous Naomi Knights. I love Naomi -- she actually did the amazing auburn I'm currently rocking and getting compliments on! Check out what she has to say about trends for the season...

"I definitely notice an increase in clients who want to go darker when the weather gets cooler," Naomi said. "Some people love change and see the seasons as an opportunity to do just that. I think darker colors act like a frame on the face to enhance certain tones. You’ll notice that cool brown hair complements the warmth in the undertones of a woman’s complexion and draws focus to their eyes more than anything else."

Naomi cautioned, "Those with cool undertones and pale skin need to be more careful of going too cool with their dark hair as it might make them look more sallow ... although vampires are in, it doesn’t always work on a daily basis."

Naomi also stressed the importance of bringing a picture for your stylist to accurately depict the color you're after. "They are a great reference tool that sometimes are better than words," she said. "Be sure to bring pictures of not just what you want, but also point out things you don’t like. It’s much easier for the colorist to know what you don’t want as well. It definitely helps to give us boundaries."

Beauty Question: If You Could Write a Musical About A Beauty Product, What Would it Be?

2009-11-14T09:00:00.000-05:00

I'm finally seeing the musical Hair this afternoon, which I've been dying to see for months! And of course, it makes me think about beauty. So my beauty question of the day is this: If you could write a musical about a beauty product, what would it be? Mine would definitely be about lipgloss. Let me know what yours would be about in the comments!

Blown Away: The Bumble and bumble StylingBar at Bloomingdale's

2009-11-13T12:00:00.000-05:00

I almost want to keep the fabulousness of the Bumble and bumble StylingBar at Bloomingdale’s a secret … because if word really gets out about how amazing your hair will look after a visit, it will be mobbed. BUT in fairness to my fellow beauty chicks, I’m going to let you in on the secret – because it would be a crime not to!

My hair was looking seriously terrible and decidedly worse for wear this week, so I decided to pay the spot at the redesigned Bloomingdale’s beauty floor a visit. And in only 30 minutes, WOW! My locks were completely transformed. I went for the Smooth blowout, since I’m on a constant quest to make my unruly locks as straight and shiny as humanly possible. (Other options include Texture, Downtown Updo, Uptown Updo or Something Nice.)

The stylist began by spraying my tresses heavily with Bumble and bumble Prep. She then blew out my hair using only her fingers – not a round brush in sight! After my hair was dry, she proceeded to spray one-inch sections with Bumble and bumble Spray de Mode before running over them with a flat iron. The result? Smooth, shiny, ultra-straight locks that lasted for three days and garnered so many compliments, I’m going to become a frequent client!

Appointments at the Bumble and bumble StylingBar are usually walk-ins only, but it is possible to make a future appointment as well. Services are $35 each. Available at the Bloomingdale’s 59th Street location only.

Fiirst Look Fridays: Eileen Dautruche of MissWhoever You Are

2009-11-13T09:00:00.005-05:00

Have you ever read MissWhoever You Are? If not, let me tell you -- you are seriously missing out. The fabulous Eileen Dautruche is such a great writer, and is really knowledgeable about beauty. And she's so gorgeous that during Fashion Week, she's often mistaken for a model instead of a reporter backstage! (I've actually seen it happen!) Read on to discover more about Eileen's passion for beauty, the mascara that's taken over her makeup bag and so much more.

Can you tell me a bit about yourself?
I am from Brooklyn, NY-born and raised (except the two years I lived in Haiti with my grandparents/aunts/cousins). I currently go to Iona College and I am studying Communications (with a concentration in Public Relations). I can probably quote all of Legally Blonde (1 and 2) and I pride myself on my insane knowledge of songs by Pat Benatar and Joan Jett -- even if I wasn't around much for the 80's.

How did you first become interested in beauty?
It sounds so cliché but it all started with my mom. I used to watch her get ready in the morning before I went to school and I marveled at how amazing she looked with makeup on (she only wears red lipstick). I was nothing in my school uniform and hair bows compared to her. Once I got a little bit of pocket change, I'd go to Rite Aid for my BonneBell Lip Smackers and j.a.n.e eyeshadows (I was never allowed to actually wear it but just having it made me feel good). Once I started working at 16, I'd blow my paycheck at the beauty counters in Macy's and M.A.C.

Why did you decide to start your blog?
Honestly, it was a combination of boredom and the need to vent. I had nothing to do and my friends can't stand talking about fashion/beauty/makeup for more than five minutes. I, on the other hand, can go for days! Also, I was tired of the same old advice magazines gave women of color ("Wear blue eyeshadow to make your eyes pop!" yeah okay...) I wanted to talk about how hard it is to get the right foundation for girls beyond "Honey" or "Caramel" skin tones. I used to read blogs and figured why not start my own, these women have.

I love the name of your blog! How did you come up with it?
Haha, thanks! Again, I was bored and this wasn't a well thought out process when I started my blog :) I had just watched Breakfast at Tiffany's for the millionth time and in the end Paul Varjack (George Peppard) called Holly Golightly (Audrey Hepburn) "Miss-Whoever-You-Are." It was/is probably the best quote on love I had ever heard ... so I stole MissWhoever You Are.

Here's the quote that started it all:

"You know what's wrong with you, Miss-Whoever-You-Are? You're chicken. You're afraid to stick out your chin and say, 'Okay, life's a fact.' People DO fall in love. People do belong to each other. Because that's the only chance anybody's got for real happiness."

What have been some of the highlights of having your blog?
Wow, where do I start?!! I have met some really amazing people in the blogosphere. Beauty bloggers are some of the nicest people I've ever met and I definitely love the fact that I can call some of them my friends. I love that I'm not the only one who gets excited when a new lipstick comes out.

Attending Fashion Week is another "OMG" moment. I get to interview Diane Kendall and Jan Arnold in between going to class.

But, hands down, I'd have to say getting an internship at Lancôme has been the highlight of my LIFE! It's been the most amazing dream come true -- being surrounded by such inspirational and intelligent women who all love beauty. I've learned so much and the semester isn't even over yet. I kind of don't want it to end! This is the one time I wish a semester was a year long!

What are your top 5 beauty essentials?
Whoa...only five?? You're killing me here...

1) I'm a foundation junkie, so I have to say Makeup For Ever HD Invisible Cover Foundation. That baby covers up everything and gives the most flawless finish I've ever seen.

2) Lancôme Juicy Tubes. No I'm not just saying this because I intern for them, haha. I've had a love affair with Juicy Tubes for a while now. I love how glossy they are. I'm a product of the 90's so full-on gloss is my thing. I own more Juicy Tubes than any other beauty product.

3) I'm obsessed with Too Faced Lash Injection mascara and have been for two years. Lately, Lancôme's Oscillation mascara has taken over my makeup bag but if I'm doing my makeup on the train (which happens a lot) I go sans vibration with Lash Injection.

4) Lumene Excellent Future Deep Repairing Cream. This product is recommended for women over 30 but I'm trying to beat the system and prevent wrinkles and all that jazz now. This cream feels ahhh-mazing on my skin. My face literally drinks this stuff up. I definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a glow and protecting their skin at the same time.

5) Lastly, good ol' fashioned Carmex. I don't know what I'd do without it.

What brands can you simply not live without?
I'm a beauty polygamist so this list will probably change within a few months.

M.A.C. Their brushes are insane! Okay so this will never change, I will always and forever go to M.A.C for my brushes.

Make Up For Ever. They've got us brown girls covered in the foundation department, so I will remain loyal.

Maybelline. I've become such a total snob but I run back to Maybelline. Hands down best drugstore foundations ever. And don't get me started about their Color Sensation lipsticks.

And yep ... you've guessed it, Lancôme. Since being there, I've seen a whole different side to the brand. I love it and the products are amazing. I love how innovative the company is with makeup. And they're French. I love the French.

Are there any other beauty blogs you read regularly? What are some that you like and why?
I can't start my day without reading a beauty blog. It's kind of sick, actually. The blogs I read are real, honest, and humorous. I hate press release blogs (those who copy/paste press releases) so for a blog to keep me coming, they've got to be original. In no particular order:

Spoiled Pretty. Daneen's a riot and since I am obsessed with Kim Kardashian, Spoiled Pretty is a must. she always has the scoop!

Beauty Blogging Junkie. I think I've learned more about the 80's from BBJ than anywhere else. Her pop culture skills are amazing.

Makeup Bag. I kind of want Erika to be my mom, haha. I love that she incorporates her family into Makeup Bag.

The Lancome Blog. It's not corporate-y and in your face BUY MY PRODUCT!

Clumps of Mascara. If Brittany like a mascara, I normally run out and buy it!

Scandalous Beauty. Erin is one of those bloggers that inspired me to start my own. I really admire her and her makeup skills are hot!

ThisThatBeauty. Never have I ever wanted to wear red lipstick more after seeing Felicia rock hers.

Makeup and Beauty Blog. Hands down one of the best bloggers (in my opinion) ever. Her reviews will have me running to Sephora in no time and she's so fun. There's so much personality behind the blog, it's kind of hard not to go back for more.

Do You Covet Blake Lively's Hair?

2009-11-12T14:00:00.002-05:00

According to The Cut, hairstylists across the country are deeming Blake Lively's haircut "The New Rachel." Do you covet her curly blonde mane? Let me know in the comments!

Yay or Nay: Paris Hilton at the Jimmy Choo for H&M Party

2009-11-12T12:00:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I think Paris Hilton manages to look cute. Sometimes. Unfortunately, her look at the Jimmy Choo for H&M party on November 2 wasn't one of those times. I'm not loving the bluish-grey eyeshadow or the way-too-thick lashes ... and the lipcolor, coupled with the way her pout is pursed, just make her lips look fake. The hair is a little too "I want to be a blonde bombshell" for me, too.

But I'll leave it up to you. Is Paris's look a yay or a nay? Let me know in the comments!

Rags to Riches: M.A.C Mineralize Eye Shadow in Cinderfella

2009-11-12T09:00:00.003-05:00

I think I've died and gone to eyeshadow heaven. Ever since I started wearing M.A.C Mineralize Eye Shadow in Cinderfella, the compliments just haven't stopped coming. It's absolutely perfect for creating a smoky eye with a little bit of spice and bite.

My trick is to take a shadow brush and sweep it four or five times across the shadow, then tap off the excess so it doesn't fall down onto my cheeks. With a very light hand, I then sweep it just across my lids -- making sure not to go up to the browbone so the dark shade doesn't overpower my face.

Plus, I'm totally loving the baked in shimmer -- it adds just a touch of sparkle to the eye without seeming overwhelming. All in all? A huge win -- one of my favorite M.A.C products in quite some time. (And that's really saying something!)

M.A.C Mineralize Eye Shadow in Cinderfella retails for $19.50.

The Ultimate Skin Indulgence: SK-II Signs Eye Cream

2009-11-11T12:00:00.003-05:00

I think I've found the holy grail of skincare ... and its name is SK-II Signs Eye Cream.

Ever since I started using this luxurious eye cream, I've noticed a significant difference in the wrinkles and dark circles around my eyes. I was starting to get -- gasp! -- crow's feet, and they have seemingly disappeared in the last four weeks. And the unsightly dark circles that never seem to disappear? They disappeared. This is thanks to SK-II's exclusive Pitera moisturizer complex, which drenches the skin with moisture and leaves it looking and feeling refreshed, bright and rejuvenated.

I know this eye cream is an indulgence. But if you're looking for one that really and truly makes your eyes younger in an instant, this is the one for you.

SK-II Signs Eye Cream retails for $105.

Lady in Red: NARS Rouge Andalou Nail Polish

2009-11-11T09:00:00.003-05:00

For years, I've searched high and low for the perfect red nail polish. Some were too crimson, others too scarlet. Some were too glittery, others too matte. But my prayers have been answered in the form of NARS Rouge Andalou Nail Polish.

Part of the NARS Holiday 2009 Collection, this polish is a gorgeously rich candy apple red that just exudes sultriness and sexiness. It has a glimmery jelly finish and flows ever so beautifully onto the nail. The color is so rich, it's simply perfect for holiday parties -- or an important date with a handsome fella!

And after four days? I've experienced minimal tipwear and chipping, even after hours upon hours of typing and opening up box after box. I've seriously never found this to be the case with any red polish I've tried -- so I'm completely enamored, of course.

NARS Rouge Andalou Nail Polish retails for $16.

Completely Gratuitous: Robert Pattinson at The Twilight Saga: New Moon Photocall in Paris

2009-11-10T17:35:00.001-05:00

You're welcome.

Back in Black: M.A.C Volcanic Ash Thermal Mask

2009-11-10T09:00:00.003-05:00

I'm always into trying new skincare products -- especially if they're a little crazier than normal. So when M.A.C Volcanic Ash Thermal Mask came my way, I simply had to give it a shot.

This mask is like none other I've ever tried. It literally stayed black and grainy the entire time it was on my face! But don't be scared -- because, trust me, your skin will never look better. It's formulated with volcanic ash and natural oils to really bring out skin's glowiness.

My favorite thing about this product is the warming sensation. As soon as you apply it to your skin, it heats up in the most pleasant way. I only needed about a quarter-sized amount to cover my entire face -- and after I rinsed it off, I could not believe how smooth and soft my skin felt.

M.A.C Volcanic Ash Thermal Mask retails for $19.50.

The "Eyes" Have It: Shu Uemura Depsea Moisture Replenishing Eye Gel

2009-11-09T12:00:00.002-05:00

Well, my eyes have never looked better ... and it's all thanks to Shu Uemura Depsea Moisture Replenishing Eye Gel. This tiny little blue tube has totally changed my life. Two quick swipes in the morning and my tired eye area perks right up. This creamy gel has completely revitalized my entire skincare regimen! We're talking no bags, no puffiness, no dark circles.

The fabulousness is due to two impressive ingredients: Up first: depsea water, which matures in the depths of the ocean for a rich combination of minerals that are ideal for skincare. And let's not forget the three essential seaweed extracts: blue algae (one of the oldest forms of algae with Vitamin B group protein, lipids and minerals), red seaweed (rich in zinc and polysaccharides) and brown seaweed (rich in essential amino acids), all of which help to lock in moisture.

The final analysis? This handy little tube makes my day.

Shu Uemura Depsea Moisture Replenishing Eye Gel retails for $45.

Ravishing Red: Givenchy Pop Gloss Crystal Lip Gloss in Enjoy Red

2009-11-09T09:00:00.003-05:00

My new fave lipgloss? Hands down, Givenchy Pop Gloss Crystal Lip Gloss in Enjoy Red. I've been enjoying it for the past few weeks -- it makes my pout look unbelievably plush and perked up. It's that perfect red: not too bright, not too dark, but not too sheer either.

Ingredients like castor oil and Givenchy's exclusive Pulp Shine Complex moisturize, condition and even stimulate the synthesis of collagen. Plus, the gloss is unbelievably creamy and perfectly non-sticky -- and it lasts even after a martini or two!

Givenchy Pop Gloss Crystal Lip Gloss in Enjoy Red retails for $24.

Yay or Nay: Charlize Theron's Mulberry Lipstick

2009-11-07T09:40:00.002-05:00

I'm all for a dramatic lip, but I don't know how I feel about Charlize Theron's mulberry lipstick at the AFI Fest premiere of The Road this past week. While I like that she made a bold lipcolor choice, I think it deserves a much stronger eye and better hair. Why just let your hair hang in your face? I think she would have looked so much better with a smoky eye and sleek updo.

But I'll leave it up to you. Is Charlize's look a yay or a nay? Let me know in the comments!