As promised I’m reviewing all the beauty and skincare products I received at the Neiman Marcus Beauty Best and Brightest Fall 2010 event! La Prairie was generous enough to giveaway beauty swag bags featuring their Cellular Radiance Emulsion moisturizer and the Luxe Eye Definer in Midnight Blue.

Pros: Smooth application, very pigmented, long lasting (its been on my hand for hours) and it comes with a small pencil sharpener in a clear, plastic case that catches the pencil shavings.

Drawbacks: $50 is extremely pricey for blue eyeliner! If you have deep pockets and want to splurge on some luxe eye liner go for it! La Prairie is available at Neiman Marcus stores or online. Otherwise, I suggest a much cheaper pencil instead. Either way be sure to play around with shades of blue and try colored eye liner trend that’s hot for the fall. iDig it!

*Added bonus here’s some Blue Eyeliner Inspiration

Related posts:

1. Neiman Marcus Beauty Best and Brightest Fall 2010 Event + Pics!
2. Falling for Fall Nail Colors: MAC Earthly Harmony review!
3. Makeup for less: NYX Cosmetics

It’s still summer but I could not wait to try new fall nail colors! Up first on my list was MAC’s Earthly Harmony created by manicurist Jin Soon. I’d described this color as a grayish-taupe with light reflecting bronze sparkles. I used 2 coats plus a top coat and it gives off a matte color with a touch of shine. When I tweeted the pic of my manicure I noted that it reminded me of  OPI “You Don’t Know Jacques” with a touch of sparkle! This new high gloss formula also contains conditioners and UV protection. This is a great color that would look good on a variety of skin tones for the upcoming fall season!

where to buy: online or at MAC Counters $13

Tell me what you think of MAC Earthly Harmony! 

Related posts:

1. Fall Manicure: You Don’t Know Jacques
2. Falling for Fall Nail Colors!
3. Neiman Marcus Beauty Best and Brightest Fall 2010 Event + Pics!

The Public Relations Manager over at Neiman Marcus invited myself along with other beauty bloggers, and writers to the Beauty Best and Brightest Fall 2010 event. I must say it was a beauty and makeup junkies dream! Product specialists from several luxury brands shared all the details about their latest products and what makeup trends, and colors to expect for the upcoming fall season. In between beauty tutorials, mini-makeovers, and product presentations I enjoyed champagne and delicious hors d’oeuvres including the best cherry tomato topped with hummus I’ve ever tried! I was very impressed with all of the product representatives. They were extremely knowledgeable about all of their products. I have to admit I was overwhelmed with information. I should have taken notes! But I plenty of reading material to look over for later. Check out my pics from the event!

La Prairie presented their latest award-winning perfume bottle design fully blinged out in bright rhinestones! I tried their Cellular Radiance Emulsion cream and it felt absolutely amazing on my skin and it smells great too! This luxury collection combines state-of-the art science with utter luxury such as powerful Caviar extracts, sea proteins, and even 24 carat to transform and improve the overall appearance of your skin.

Bobbi Brown showcased the new fall Black Velvet Collection which is all about giving you an edge in 5 minutes! The new and limited edition eye kohls come in 3 colors (Black, Black Plum, & Black Chocolate) and all work well to acheive fall’s smudged, dark eye shadow trend. I tried the new creamy lip color in Black Cherry. I usually don’t wear dark lips but for fall its all about the lip color! Black Cherry was a long lasting, rich color that moisturized the lips without staining.

Le Metier Beaute was one of the new blossoming skin care lines that is projected to double in size this fall. The shadows were very pigmented and as you can see, the shadows come in a unique pallet meant to layer.

Clarisonic products seemed to be more geared toward anti-aging but it’s never too soon to start preventing wrinkles! He recommended that I try the compact Mia along with my daily cleanser for a spa-like treatment at home.

I picked up a new Laura Mercier foundation to try. *Expert makeup tip: apply foundation with fingertips for a more natural, even tone

Christian Dior will have a collectors’ item this fall. Each hand pressed eye shadow compact will be individually numbered and accompanied with matching lipstick!

Another product worth mentioning is Chantecaille Fragrance. Petalia smells amazingly delicious! I wear perfume every single day and I can never smell myself even when others compliment me but this one is different. It might sound strange but I can can actually smell myself and I love the romantic fragrance. It’s on the pricey side so until I make the $175 splurge, I’ll enjoy the free fragrance trio!

I love trying new nail colors but I’m always skeptical since most polishes chip within a few days. Try this tip from celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann:

NEVER skip base or top coats! While these steps take a little longer she insists they will add days to your wear!

I’ll have to watch the how-to video on how to achieve the perfect at home manicure. The rep also added that for fall 2010 nail color is the new must have accessory! In the meantime get more tips at www.deborahlippmann.com

While the Chanel rep discussed the new Bleu de Chanel cologne for men (which retails for $59 and $79) I had to ask her about Les Khakis de Chanel. Ladies, if you love the colors as much as I do, you might want to stalk  visit Chanel.com on/around September 10th when the line is set to launch. She was not able to confirm if the polishes would be available to at all Chanel counters. She believes those colors will only be available in New York and online. I’m keeping my fingers crossed! But there’s more good news to share! The Mac 2010 Nail Colors are in stores now! Before the event I was able to snag a bottle of the Earthly Harmony I was raving about earlier this week. Make sure you get yours this weekend because I’m certain this color will sell out!

I walked away with a green suede, fall Neiman Marcus Beauty Bag full of products and materials from Christian Dior, Jo Malone, La Mer, Lancome, Guerlain, Estee Lauder, Bobbi Brown, NARS, Clairisonic, and more! When I got home I was like a kid on Christmas opening my beauty swag bags!  I was uber excited that two products on my radar to purchase were in my bag: NARS Orgasm Illuminator  and Frederic Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Cream.  Other beauty bloggers have been raving about both so I’m glad I get to try for free! This is really just a brief overview of the event! I walked away with so much information for the upcoming fall season. I can’t even begin to tell you about all the new beauty and skincare products I have to test out. The pictures speak for themselves!

Check out all the amazing goodies I received!

The Lancome Raspberry Pop Sparkle gloss is such a fun color. Here’s a closer look!

As you can see I have so many new products to tell you all about! I will be using EVERY single product received so stay tuned for more detailed reviews!

***UPDATE PIC***

Look what I came across. Yours truly with Lancome’s Cindy Hunter and Jodie Hawk

wearing: Ann Taylor dress, Banana Republic Clutch, Bobbi Brown Black Cherry lipstick

See more pics HERE

Related posts:

1. Life in the District: Envy Party at Neiman Marcus + Pics
2. Falling for Fall Nail Colors!
3. Falling for Fall Nail Colors: MAC Earthly Harmony review!

One of my Twitter followers recently asked if I knew anything about Burberry makeup. She wondered if it was worth the price. I’m sorry to report that my love for the “berry” as I call it stops at boots, handbags, and clothes. I have no idea about their makeup. I did a little online research and came across a great review about their new line but I’m not completely sold for the price and I’m not sure if it’s for “us”. There is a more affordable makeup line that I think more women of color could benefit from if they just give it a try and that’s NYX Cosmetics. Take a few of my favs for example:

Products featured: Lip Glosses L-R Honey, Mauve, Sand Dune; Liner in Chestnut; Shadow: Golden/Rust/Walnut Bronze

NYX on Me

glosses: L-R Mauve, Sand Dune, Honey

Shadow L-R: Golden/Rust/Walnut Bronze

I highly recommend brown beauties to invest in NYX cosmetics. The colors are very pigmented and super affordable! 3 glosses + 3 eye shadows +1 lip liner = $18 <—WOW!!! I also recommend the eye brow/liner pencils. One of my other favorites is the White Pearl 918 (not pictured) which works well for me as a base when I want shadows to appear brighter. NYX is sold at most Asian Beauty Supply stores or you can find it online.

Beauty Rating:

Related posts:

1. La Prairie Midnight Blue Luxe Eye Definer review & Fall Eye Makeup inspiration!
2. Blended Beaute: Interview with Shades of Shaunè Makeup Artistry
3. Spring Beauty Trend: Nude Lips

On my morning blog roll both the Fashion Bomb Daily and Bitchie Life posted that singer Jill Scott has a relaxer! Why is this news?  It’s just hair right?!  Well obviously those on #teamnatural were ranting about her choice to relax her hair on Twitter. I joke and say relaxers are the devil but I honestly don’t care if the next woman has a relaxer or not. I commented on BitchieLife.com:

“As long as her hair is healthy it doesn’t really matter to me.” As the saying goes: if she likes it, I love it.”

I’m sure the natural hair blogs will have endless debates about her going back to relaxers seeing as if some have strong objections against relaxers. I think it’s a personal choice and it aint’ for everybody. Going “natural” has become a fad and topic of discussion but I’d argue it’s a lifestyle choice not a trend. It requires you to change your hair care regimen, products, and styles. It’s not a “quick fix” and it shole aint for the weak at heart! (excuse my slang) At 14 months in I’d say transitioning from relaxed to natural hair has been a challenge that I don’t plan on failing. I’m starting to document my HAIRstory more and plan on posting more pictures of my hair inlcuding what new products I’m trying.

This week I’ll share my latest discovery Fermodoyl 619!

Product claims from the website:

My hair is prone to tangles so I used Fermadoyl 619 after washing with sulfate-free Kera Care Hydrating Detangling shampoo  and conditioning with Hello Hydration conditioner. I parted my hair in 4 sections and applied the treatment. I’m so nervous about breakage since my hair is two different textures so I opted to use the Fermadoyl in conjunction with a little of Giovanni Direct Leave-In Conditioner. For once it didn’t take me forever to detangle my hair. My hair was soft and shiny. I was pleased with the results so I’ll definitely be using this product once a month. My only dislike about this product is the vial it comes in. It slipped out of my hands a few times and was all over the bathroom sink. Fermodoyl 619 is available at Sally’s Beauty Supply or online for$8.49

For the price and results I give it:

In the meantime I think I want to try a bun like Christina or Gabby.

Which style should I try?

Related posts:

1. HAIRstory: Hair Growth Tips While Transitioning
2. HAIRStory: 1 Year Relaxer Free + Hair Product Giveaways!
3. HAIRstory: From Relaxed to Natural

Related posts:

1. Operation: Flawless Skin
2. Sephora’s Face to Face Tour
3. FAB Friday: flawless skin & fabulous weave!

This is the ultimate post for all things Beyonce! InStyle Magazine interviewed Beyonce’ and revealed her fashion and beauty favorites!

Her Must-Have Accessory = BIG HOOPS

Her Designer Obsessions: Alexander McQueen and Jean Paul Gaultier

Vintage Chanel Jewelry

Vintage Chanel Earrings

Vintage Chanel Cuff Bracelet

Beyonce:

“I found this cuff at an antiques store. I am obsessed with vintage Chanel jewelry. I once bought all the Chanel pieces that were on display at an antiques store in New York. I have pieces that go back to the 1960s.”

Natura Bisse Moisturizer

Natura Bisse Diamond Moisturizer $235

She said: ” Iapply it every morning and every night.”

Learn more about Natura Bisse’ products online  or buy the luxury beauty brand at Neiman Marcus.com

 Louis Vuitton 

Marc Jacobs signed the inside of her Louis Vuitton tote. She said: “It’s one of the best gifts I’ve ever gotten.”

Lorraine Schwartz Jewelry

Custom designed Lorraine Schwartz chain

 Some of her favorite red carpet looks 

2007 BET Awards DG Dress

2007 Golden Globes Ellie Sabb

She also likes “normal” things  just like regular people

FHI flat iron

 

 

Read the rest of the article HERE

 source

Related posts:

1. Spotted: Beyonce’ 2010 Grammy booties
2. Spice It Up For Less
3. Get the Look: Beyonce in Alexander McQueen booties

The New Year is starting off great! I don’t get into New Year resolutions but I’ve read some updates via Twitter and Facebook from women wanting a new, refreshed look for the New Year. Now is the perfect time for self improvement. Especially skin care during these dry winter months. Throughout January Sephora stores across the country will be offering FREE one on one signature services and consultations. Appointments are recommended but walk-ins are welcomed. Some of the brands featured include: Korres, MD Skincare, Murad, DDF, and Philosophy. I can’t vouch for any of these brands because the only brand I’ve tried is Philosophy. I tried the Hope in a Jar moisturizer and the foaming cleanser.

Hope in a Jar

What it is:
A moisturizer that gently hydrates, exfoliates, and protects the skin.

What it is formulated to do:
Philosophy Hope in a Jar is a 99.9% oil-free, deeply hydrating, lightweight wonder designed to smooth the complexion while reducing the appearance of wrinkles and discoloration. Originally created for the medical market, this expert essential delivers soft, healthy, glowing results. It doesn’t contain: Sulfates, Synthetic Fragrances, Synthetic Dyes, Phthalates,  GMOs, or Triclosan. Price: 0.5 oz $15, 2 oz $38, 4 oz $60

Purity Made Simple High Foaming Daily Cleanser
 

What it is:
A gentle sulfate and paraben-free foaming cleanser that eliminates dirt, oil, and makeup while leaving skin calm and soothed.

What it is formulated to do:
Philosophy Purity Made Simple High Foaming Daily Cleanser deep cleans, tones, and removes all makeup, including eye makeup, with a high-foaming formula that leaves skin feeling refreshed, never tight or dry. It’s enriched with botanical extracts to soften and soothe skin. Price: 6 oz $21.50 or 12 oz $34.50

I remember liking the products but I can’t recall why I stopped using them ?! More than likely I stopped using them once they ran out  because  #1: they didn’t sell it at Walmart and #2:  the small southern city in Alabama didn’t have Sephora. (#Shoutout to “da ville” a.k.a. Huntsvegas “City of Lost Dreams” LOL) Anyway, I might try these out again and see what I think.

 If you want to participate in the Face to Face Tour here are some dates and stores for the DMV:

CHEVY CHASE
CHEVY CHASE
Jan 16: DDF

BETHESDA
MONTGOMERY
Jan 21: Philosophy
Jan 26: KORRES

WASHINGTON
GEORGETOWN
Jan 25: KORRES

ARLINGTON
PENTAGON CITY
Jan 15: Philosophy
Jan 16: Murad
Jan 23: DDF

Click HERE to find a beauty brand event near you!

Related posts:

1. Complimentary Valentine’s Day makeovers at Sephora
2. Beauty Secret: Black Soap
3. Save face with Cell Ceuticals Anti Aging skin protector

Yesterday was a typical Friday in the DMV. Eager for the weekend, I rushed to leave work by 4 only to sit in traffic. One hour and 3 accidents later I finally arrived at the nail spa. The spa pedicure and manicure was the perfect way to end my long work week. Even though the weather was a surprisingly high 83 degrees, I still opted for last season’s favorite Fall color by OPI.

 ”You Don’t Know Jacques” is from the De France Fall 2008 Collection. This taupe, matte color is very wearable on both the hands and feet. I get so many compliments and questions about this color. Until I find another color I like this much, I believe this will be my Fall manicure color!  iDig it

Related posts:

1. Falling for Fall Nail Colors: MAC Earthly Harmony review!
2. Summer Beauty: OPI Gel Axxium Manicure
3. Fall’s Must Have Mixed Metals Manicure

SUNSCREEN:  Even though I’ m a chocolate diva I burn QUICK! Pay special attention to your face and arms. For the face I like to mix it with my moisturizer and apply it underneath my makeup.  Last year my dermatologist recommended Neutrogena. I found that it was ultra light, clean, non greasy, and it didn’t smell funny. This year they introduced a new Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Formula that’s comparable.

BRONZER: During the summer I like to look sun-kissed from head to toe so I use body bronzer all over. Especially on my legs and shoulders. When you’re rocking a cute summer dress, bronzer gives you that glow to top off the look. This year MAC has “Lustre Drops” ($18.50) that applies like lotion to give a simmering finish. On the face iI highlight my cheeks, forehead, and nose with MAC Bronzing Powder in Refined Golden ($21) 

FRAGRANCE: Summer scents should be light and fresh. I usually prefer a body spray over perfume and this summer I think I’ve found the spray for me. I was recently at a bridal shower and I won one of the games. The gift bag included Bath and Body Spray in Coconut Lie Verbena. This was my first time smelling the scent and I liked it alot. It’s a blend of zesty lime, mandarin, and coconut. Very sweet smelling.  I try to follow the “rules” by hitting the pulse points- neck, elbow, behind your knee, and wrist.; but I am so guilty of rubbing my wrist together…supposedly that alters the scent. Either way I like this body spray and will be using throughout the summer

TOES: There is no excuse for your toes not to be tended during sandal season! Keep them bright and colorful. Classic Oranges, Hot Pinks, Reds, and even Whites will look great in any strappy sandal or gladiator. Try colors from OPI. I find them to be rich with minimal chipping.

last personal tip: Because you tend to perspire more during the summer, I opt for switching from my usual Bobbi Brown foundation to a cheaper brand like Loreal True Match foundation. You can get it at most discount stores like Target or Wal Mart and its actually pretty decent. It doesn’t hurt that my favorite celeb endorses the product either.

Related posts:

1. Summer Beauty: OPI Gel Axxium Manicure
2. Get Bronzed!
3. 10 Ways to Look More “Polished”