Review: SEPHORA COLLECTION Microsmooth Foundation Face Powder
When the weather starts to get warm, I immediately switch from my traditional liquid foundation to a powder for an ultra-light undetectable makeup look. This summer, I have found my new powder foundation with Sephora’s Microsmooth Foundation Face Primer. According the Sephora’s website, the foundation is “slowly baked to achieve a unique airy texture that perfectly melts into the skin.” The foundation is very light and covers very similar to a tinted moisturizer; however, multiple layers of application will give you full coverage. I like to use a wide fluff brush to apply it since I prefer a light application, and it offers a more even coverage than using a sponge. The only thing I don’t like about this product is that it doesn’t include a mirror, so it’s not the best choice to carry out with you for on-the-go touchups. Thankfully, the coverage lasts most of the day, so the need for reapplying is minimal.
Cost: $22
Where to Buy: Sephora or Sephora.com
Big, Floppy Hats for Summer – 2013 Edition
Summer is almost here, and you know what that means? You need a wide-brimmed hat to keep yours kin protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Because I care about your skin, I’ve searched far and wide (at least on the internet) to find you my top picks for the most sun proof hats that will keep you fashionable while offering a large circumference of protection. Behold:
American Apparel Floppy Summer Hat, $38
‘Angelina’ Striped Sun Hat, $38.00
Juicy Couture Wide Brim Straw Sequined Sun Hat, $39.99
Jessica Simpson Ombre Floppy, $42.99
J Crew Summer straw hat, $34.00
Bikini Soft Product Review & Giveaway!
FTC Disclosure: This product was provided for review
It is that time of the year again when us ladies (and some gents) are getting ready to hit the beach in our ultra-sexy swimwear. But, before you strut your stuff on the beach you need to make sure all unwanted hair is under control, so on a quest for a smooth shave, we tested out Bikini Soft Smooth Shave Oil.
What is it? The product is a combination of natural oils, rich moisturizers and softeners that lubricates the skin and softens the hair shaft, enabling a close, smooth shave.
What does it do? It replaces all traditional forms of shave lubricants such as creams, soaps, gels…etc, and claims to dramatically reduce skin irritation, razor burn, nicks, cuts, scratches and ingrown hairs in sensitive areas such as bikini lines and underarms. The transparent oil allows you to see exactly what you are shaving, while also nourishing the skin.
The promise: Bikini Soft has a 30 day, 100% money back guarantee. If you’re not happy for any reason, you can return it for a full refund, no questions asked.
The result (product tested by Jolevette): “Using the recommended dose of 8-10 drops, I massaged the oil onto the area I wanted to shave, and put a little on my razor blade for a closer shave. The mix of essential oils, such as jojoba, aided in soothing the sensitive areas I shaved, and left my skin feeling silky smooth. Overall, I was very pleased with the product, and I am not shy about stepping out on the beach in my swimsuit this summer!”
*****Bikini Soft Giveaway Details****This contest is closed. The winners will be announced shortly***
So you can experience the smoothest shave ever, enter below for a chance to win Bikini Soft. 6 lucky winners receive a one month supply of Bikini Soft (Both Shave Oil & Razor Saver Oil). If you don’t win the contest, don’t worry, all readers can use discount code FIFTYOFF at checkout to get 50% off Bikini Soft (offer only valid for the month of June).
Here are the rules to enter:
1. Leave us a comment here with your email (= 1 entry).
For 1 more additional entry to increase your chance of winning (optional):
2. “Follow” Delialicious Picks on Twitter, then leave a comment here letting us know that you did (= 1 entry).
Each comment counts as an entry. The winner will be chosen using random.org. For example if the number 4 is selected and your comment is the 4th one down, you will be the winner, so multiple comments increase your chance of winning.
Rules: This giveaway is open to residents of the US only. You must be 16+ to enter. Six winners will be chosen at random on June 16th, 2013. All entries must be received by June 15th 11:59pm EST.
Eddie Funkhouser for Rite-Aid
Products from Eddie Funkhouser’s new cosmetics line. FTC Disclosure: These products were provided for review.
This Spring, Makeup Artist and Product Development Expert, Eddie Funkhouser, launched a new cosmetics line, which bears his name, allowing everyone access to professional-quality makeup products, without breaking the bank. The line, currently available at Rite-Aid, is a fusion of the artist’s creative edge and vibrant personality meets studio-grade beauty formulas. The result: modern packaging, bold hues, and innovative formulas. Below are some of the products I tired.
Graffiti Liquid Liner in Haze (metallic electric purple)
What is it? A hologram-inspired liquid liner that provides vibrant dual-chrome pigments for fashion forward eyes.
What I liked: Loaded with multidimensional shine, the bold color highlighted my eyes every time I blinked. The smooth formula glided on easily and lasted throughout the entire night without reapplying.
Quattro Variable Lash Mascara
What is it? A 4-level application mascara that adjusts at the base to provide varying lash effects.
What I like: Using the mascara was a playful experience. As you turn the dial, the tip of the wand twists to enhance, separate, curl and lengthen, depending on your desired lash look. My lashes looked stunning; they were full, elongated and I looked like I was wearing falsies.
Results after using Quattro Variable Lash Mascara
Learn more about Eddie here»
KENSIE JEWELRY HOLIDAY ’13 COLLECTION
Last week I had the opportunity to preview the 2013 holiday collection by Kensie jewelry. The collection features triangular shapes, monograms and celestial-inspired pieces. My favorite accessories are the sparkly moon necklaces, which is sure illuminate any outfit, regardless of the time of day. As a special treat, bloggers were treated to complementary tarot card readings; according my tarot card reader, 2013 will be the most exciting year of my life. Check out some of the photos I took at the event below.
NYC Event Alert: June 1st – Meet with Living Proof Haircare Master at Sephora Times Square
Living Proof Haircare Master Class at Sephora Times Square with Founder, Ward Stegerhoek and Creative Director, Tim Rogers
*Get Sneak Preview of Living Proof’s Latest Technology Satin before it hits stores and receive a complimentary gift with purchase and many more free samples*
WHAT: Celebrate the launch of Satin, the latest technology from the Living Proof Style Lab series with consultations, styling and demonstrations from Living Proof’s renowned editorial stylists, founder Ward Stegerhoek, and Creative Director Tim Rogers.
WHO: Living Proof, the innovative beauty company that uses new technologies originating from MIT, introduces its breakthrough oil-free and silicone-free hair serum, Satin, to create the smoothest hair possible with less time and effort than traditional serums.
A new addition to the Living Proof Style Lab Collection, Satin relies on cutting-edge science to create a high-performance, superior smoothing formula without any of the usual tradeoffs.
WHEN: Saturday, June 1, 2013
12pm – 1:30pm: Touch-Ups and consultations with Tim Rogers
2:00pm – 4:00pm: Master Class with Ward Stegerhoek, live transformations on models using products from the Living Proof Style Lab Series
WHERE: Sephora Times Square @ 43rd Street and Broadway
NOTE: Living Proof Satin is available online at Sephora.com and will be available in all Sephora stores beginning June 15th.
Fysiko Eyelash Growth Serum Review
FTC Disclosure: I received this product for review.
For the last month, I have been testing Fysiko Eyelash Growth Serum, an all-natural product that helps to regrow lashes and eyebrows within 6-8 weeks. The serum is very similar to other products out on the market now; however, it doesn’t require a prescription and is a lot more affordable.
What I like: It comes in a small, easy-to-to use tube with a precise applicator that makes it easy to target specific areas. Just one tube, provides enough product to last 6-8 months, which makes it a great, cost-effective investment. It only took a few seconds to apply, so it wasn’t an arduous added step to my morning and evening skin care rituals. There is also no harsh scent, and it doesn’t take too long to dry. Since I suffer from eczema, I was slightly concerned how my skin would react, but I didn’t notice ay side effects while using the serum.
My results: Because my eyelashes are already dangerously long, I opted to test the product on my eyebrows, which are quite sparse. For full results, it is recommended to use the product consistently for 16 weeks. I used the product for about 6 weeks, and below are my results.
On the left – before using Fysiko; On the right – 6 weeks after using the serum
I was skeptical about the product, and didn’t even really notice the difference myself until I saw my own before and after pictures. The hairs on my eyebrow appear darker and they were elongated, which gives the appearance of fuller brows.
Final thoughts: My eyebrows still don’t rival Brook Sheilds’, but the product does deliver, so if you would like fuller lashes or brows, it’s worth a try.
Cost: $139.00 for an 8ml tube
Where to buy: fysikolashes.com
Illamasqua’s UV Nail Varnish in Séance
A few weeks ago I told you about the launch of Illamasqua’s new Paranormal collection, which features a variety of products with bold hues and unexpected textures. Amongst the new collection are four high-impact limited edition nail varnishes, which look great alone, but under UV light, emit a bright glow for stand-out nails. This week I tested out the UV Glow Nail Varnish in SÉANCE (Paranormal bright violet).
What I like: The color glides on smoothly, making the application virtually mistake proof. Within a matter of minutes my nails were dry so the fact that I was able to paint my nails with a gorgeous color, and run out the house in under an hour is a huge plus. The high shine finish gives you a salon-quality manicure, and the subtle hint of shimmer is playful, without being overdramatic. Séance is also the perfect shade of purple, which is perfect for daytime, but still dramatic enough to complement any nighttime look.
How much is it: $17.00
Where to buy: Sephora or Illamasqua.com
Why is Gluten-Free Makeup for Me?
This is a guest post by Caroline Elliott, a freelance beauty writer.
Living an all-natural lifestyle requires a lot of effort, but gluten-free makeup is making life simpler.
Gluten-sensitive people say that their lips react to even the smallest amounts of gluten in their lipstick. And with this group of individuals increasing in number, this is a growing area of makeup to watch.
But what if you’re not gluten-sensitive?
If you’re interested in healthy alternatives to apply to your skin, gluten-free products might just be your beauty potions.
Facial skin is super absorbent, so you want to watch what you put over your precious pores. This is especially important if you’re someone who is concerned about what you eat because there’s a good chance that you’ll lick off some of your lipstick or breathe in some blush. And if you apply your makeup everyday, that’s a lot of gluten that you’re ingesting over time.
Gluten-free makeup companies are also pushing the health boundaries for the better. Makeup companies like Red Apple Lipstick are paraben free, soy free, dairy free and allergen free; oh, and also vegan, natural and cruelty free. Talk about health conscious.
Other companies are actively participating in their communities. For example, Afterglow Cosmetics signed the The Breast Cancer Fund’s Compact for Safe Cosmetics. Another gluten-free makeup company, Mineral Fusion, has officially partnered with the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence to help women in need.
For many people, gluten-free makeup is a natural next step to complete a wholesome lifestyle. So glam up, and show off your new look.
Dr. Denese SPF 30 Defense Day Cream Review
As summer approaches, and we eagerly anticipate the transition from cold winds to warm sunshine, it is important to make sure we have everything we need to protect our skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Summer weather means it’s time to beef up your SPF protection and switch from heavy foundations that may streak and look oily, to more lightweight products like tinted moisturizers and BB creams. Stay protected while maintaining a fresh complexion with Dr. Denese SPF 30 Defense Day Cream, an oil-free flesh-tinted BB Cream loaded with SPF 30 UVA/UVB broad spectrum protection. It’s a 3-in-1 product that works a moisturizer, sunblock, and makeup primer, saving you time and money. You don’t have to worry about the color not matching your skin, since the moisturizer, which comes in one shade, is formulated with Dr. Denese’s Pro Melanin Technology™, and imparts an undetectable self-adjusting sheer tint for a flawless completion.
FTC Disclosure: This product was provided for review
Cost: $34.00 for 1.5 oz and $75 for 4oz
How to use: Apply a generous amount of the day cream every morning to the face and neck. The product is safe enough to use around the eyes, including the upper eyelid. Reapply every few hours if you’re spending the day outdoors.
What I like: The cream blends into the skin smoothly and leaves behind a nice, matte finish. You should wear SPF year round, so it’s a nice option as a multi-tasking primer when using foundation during the cooler months. It doesn’t have a strong odor, nor does it or leave behind white residue, characteristic of most sunscreens.
Extra Info: The product is not pigmented enough to cover flaws, but it will give you a smooth canvas. Hide your imperfections by placing concealer only in the areas you need it, after applying the cream.
Where to buy: drdenese.com
S. Whittaker’s “Time Signature” Exhibit
On Friday, May 10th I attended the launch of 3D Art by S. Whittaker at her exhibit, Time Signature, held at Top of The Garden in midtown Manhattan. The event, presented by Reign Entertainment Co., featured the artist’s oil and acrylic based portraits on wooden canvases. As attendees viewed portraits of infamous entertainers from the past, present and future, 3-D glasses were provided for an innovative and interactive visual experience. Some famous portraits on display included Lauren Hill, Michael Jackson and Amy Winehouse. Check out some of the photos below (note: JavaScript is required to view the images).
Is your mom the Best Mom on the Planet? Plus, Enter Planet Fitness Mother’s Day promotion and raise money for The Breast Cancer Research Foundation
Limited Edition Planet Fitness Mother’s Day T-Shirt. All proceeds from the tee will go directly to BCRF.
This week, in honor of Mother’s Day, Planet Fitness is hosting its fourth annual Mother’s Day promotion to raise money for The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF), an independent not-for-profit organization committed to funding scientific research to achieve prevention and a cure for breast cancer. Now through May 15th, individuals can join Planet Fitness for just $10 down and then lock in membership at $10 a month. For each sign-up, participating locations nationwide will donate the $10 enrollment to BCRF. Since the inception of this promotion three years ago, Planet Fitness has donated more than $1 million to BCRF to support the organization’s important mission of raising money and awareness for breast cancer research.
“In the U.S. alone, unfortunately every 2.3 minutes a woman will be diagnosed with breast cancer — a mother, a daughter, a sister, a friend,” said Myra J. Biblowit, BCRF President. “To implement this program during the Mother’s Day holiday is a great way to make a difference and speak to women across the nation affected by breast cancer at such an alarming rate.”
In addition to this promotion, Planet Fitness is hosting a special “Mom Nom” sweepstakes, where participants can enter for the chance to win a year membership for themselves and a mom of their choice. Once lucky person will be chosen at random. Enter by clicking the image below.
To find a Planet Fitness near you or to join online, visit www.PlanetFitness.com
The Skin Regime: Boot Camp for Beautiful Skin Q&A with Author Dana Ramos
If you are like me, you have spent a ton of money and time trying out every product that claims to be the latest and greatest new thing out on the market that will make you have beautiful, more youthful skin. In The Skin Regime: Boot Camp for Beautiful Skin, author Dana Ramos claims that many products on the market are not only costly, but useless. According to Dana, by following a simple “boot camp” skincare regimen consisting of several glycolic peels, you can transform your skin from dull to vibrant in as little as six weeks.
Anxious to read the secret to skin perfection I sat down with the glossy pink-and-green, army camouflage patterned book, and finished reading it in under an hour (FTC Disclosure: I received a copy of this book for review). The book is an easy read and written in a witty-tone, with the author handing out advice to you as if you are one of her best girlfriends.
“…there are some great books written by doctors which go into all the medical terms like dermis, epidermis and subcutaneous,” reads page 21. “The point of this book is to cut to the chase and give you basic cold, hard facts and info you need to get your skin looking terrific in a few weeks. This is boot camp, baby!”
In addition to providing skin regimen tips, Dana also lists makeup tips, as well how to transform your skin from head to toe. Here is a brief Q&A with Dana, where she answers some pressing questions, and provides some helpful skincare tips that can be used for the upcoming summer months and year-round.
How did you come up with the regimen?
I came up with the Regime after doing what my dermatologist, Dr. David Bank, instructed for years. In fact, he is the technical advisor of the book, and it is the TRUTH about skin care.
Are there any age groups that shouldn’t follow the regimen?
Anyone can follow it, but children should avoid it since their skin is too delicate and undeveloped. Pregnant women should also hold off on following the regimen even though there is very low risk of anything happening at all, it’s not worth taking the chance.
Since you are not a professional dermatologist, which should people trust your advice in the book?
Every single word in my book is approved by one of the most respected dermatologists in the United States: Dr. David Bank of New York. He was the technical advisor and wrote the forward. Furthermore, everything in the book is based on exactly what dermatologists suggest and reveal about what REALLY works in skin care, and what is just bull.
What is the most dramatic result someone has received from following the regimen?
I had bad skin and it has gotten better over the years. But one of my most notable clients is Tanning Mom; she healed her skin with The Skin Regime and you can see the results on my website.
Tanning Mom-Before & After
What did you hope to achieve in writing the book?
I am passionate about teaching people the TRUTH about beauty products and skin care products. The beauty industry is full of fraudulent claims, and we waste billions on bogus products. People need to know the TRUTH which is laid out in the book. In fact, the very first page of the book is a challenge to the entire beauty industry to test against what The Skin Regime preaches. It is a powerful statement, and so far, no one has taken on the challenge.
I also give at least 5 percent of proceeds to worthy non-profit organizations. I really believe in giving back.
What are the biggest beauty product myths/scams out there on the market?
There are too many beauty myths to list in one answer, and I cover a lot of them in my book. For instance, the claims that you can get “firming” or “lifting” results in a bottle, or that the stuff in expensive skin care lines can do the things they claim—lies, lies, lies. They can’t. There ARE great products out there, and I teach how to recognize the fact from the fiction, and what the REAL pros say–the dermatologists in private practice. Again, you can read the “challenge” to the industry I give both as my first page in the book, and on my website (See Skin Myths Busted). I am out to BUST the myths and frauds, period.
What, in your opinion, are the top tips in the book everyone should follow year round?
Top tip, best ever: use sunscreen. The sun is the single worst thing for your skin. Smoking is number two on the list. No doctor in the world debates this, it is a FACT.
Another great tip: you can get great results with inexpensive drugstore items like Dove soap and Lubriderm lotion. Skip the expensive stuff. Any dermatologist will tell you the same thing.
And finally, you can give yourself exfoliation treatments, similar to what doctors use, safely, at home, and get great skin without having to pay a lot. That is one of the most revolutionary things I teach in the book. It is time for people to know they CAN do these things themselves.
With summer approaching, do you have any advice on how to transition into a new skin routine for the humid weather?
Use lighter moisturizers and makeup so that your skin can breathe. Don’t forget to do proper exfoliation. I have fabulous tips on this on my website, and in the book, of course.
What has been the most rewarding part of writing this book?
Hundreds of people have written to me saying that they had given up hope on getting great skin. They couldn’t believe that they had been lied to for so long by expensive beauty products, and now “see the light.” I love knowing I have helped those people save time and money. And for those who have severe issues such as severe acne or eczema, I have put them on the right track to get help with some of the newer treatments out there such as the use of light and lasers.
You can read the first 30 pages of the book for free at this link»
Click here to purchase the book on Amazon for just $8!
Mother’s Day Gift Guide 2013
Sephora Favorites Bottled Dreams: Fragrance Impressions Sampler for Her – $50
This collection features six deluxe samples of Sephora’s most popular women’s scents, plus a full-size Sephora by OPI Nail Colour in What Aura Gonna Wear?. Your mom can choose her favorite scent, then take the enclosed certificate to any Sephora store in the U.S. to redeem it for a free full-size bottle of the fragrance of her choice (the voucher cannot be redeemed online).
The set includes:
- 0.25 oz BALENCIAGA Florabotanica
- 0.22 oz Coach Love
- 0.16 oz Gucci Guilty
- 0.17 oz Juicy Couture Couture La La
- 0.14 oz Lancôme La vie est belle
- 0.25 oz MARCHESA PARFUM D’EXTASE
- Bonus 0.5 oz Sephora By OPI Nail Colour in What Aura Gonna Wear?
Sanctuary Spa Covent Garden Facial In-a-Box – $39.99
Give mom the ultimate pampering with a relaxing, anti-aging facial she can do in the comfort of home. Designed by the UK’s #1 day spa, Sanctuary Spa, the professional-grade skin treatment takes just 30 minutes, perfect for the busy mom who doesn’t make time for herself.
Mother’s Day Mirrored Compact, $5.00
Your mom will love one of these stylish mirrored compacts, featuring mom-themed inscriptions.
Mommy to be pendants; $32.15
Give a special gift to an expecting mom. How could this cute pendant not make you smile?
Wet n’ Wild beauty’s Extraordinary #MOMents campaign
This year, Mother’s Day is May 12th, and Wet n’ Wild beauty is celebrating by collaborating with the Noreen Fraser Foundation (NFF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising funds and awareness of women’s cancer research and the importance of early detection. Through the Extraordinary #MOMents campaign, individuals can post a photo of their mom on Wet n’ Wild’s Facebook page with a special memory of what makes her amazing. For each #MOMent shared, Wet n’ Wild will donate $1 to NFF to support women’s cancer research.
Entries will be evaluated by a panel of influential judges including: Entertainment Tonight’s Brooke Anderson; Variety Magazine Publisher, Michelle Sobrino; Stella & Dot CEO, Jessica Herrin; Owner of Pur-lisse, Jennifer Yen; and, Celebrity make-up artist, Amy Rittiner. The winner and their mom will each receive a year supply of Wet n’ Wild makeup and a $100 Walgreens shopping spree. Two runners-up will receive Wet n’ Wild gift packages worth $100, and $25 Walgreens gift cards.
The campaign will run from May 1st through Mother’s Day, May 12th, 2013. Enter now here»
New – Illamasqua’s Paranormal collection
On Tuesday, April 23rd, I attended a preview of Illamasqua’s new exciting collection, Paranormal, which features unexpected textures and formulas. US Nail Ambassador and Nail Artist Fleury Rose and Brand Ambassador and Makeup Artist Josh Heald, were on hand to introduce the innovative products set to launch at Sephora and Sephora.com on April 30th.
Never before have I experienced a makeup collection that ignites the physical senses, and provides the opportunity for play and experimentation. Below is a sampling of some of the otherworldly products that will be available.
New Paranormal UV Nail Varnish Ltd Edition $17.00
3 new nail varnishes (Paranormal Bright Green Ouija; Paranormal Bright Pink and Paranormal Bright Violet Geist) offer a vivid burst of color. When combined with Illamasqua’s new top coat, Paranormal Clear/Glow, the polishes glow under UV Black Light, serving as undercover nail art, invisible to the naked eye until the sun goes down and your nails begin to illuminate.
New Paranormal Palette $46.50
The unique eye shadow palette features four shades: Paranormal: Vivid Cerise Aura and Warm Coppe; Possession: Cool green Trance and Soft Violet. The texture of the shadows is unusual and surprising – it feels soft and rubbery, similar to play dough. The formula is water-resistant and can be applied to create a soft barely-there look, or layered for a bold pop of color.
New Gleam in Supernatural $26.00
This iridescent highlighter is available in one universal shade, Supernatural – Warm Bronze, and is faltering on all skin tones. Lighter skins can use it to fake a golden glow, and darker skin beauties can use it to highlight different areas of the face including under the eye brows and the cupid’s bow.
Learn more about the collection: www.Illamasqua.com/paranormal
Mad For The Manbag?
The manbag: once a most unfairly maligned accessory that was reserved for the more, let’s say, sartorially serious gent. ‘Real men’, of the kind of butch masculinity heralded by Yorkie chocolate bars and McCoy crisps, would never be seen with anything so fey and useful , instead preferring to stock their pockets or maybe condescend to use a natty skate backpack, at a push.
Burberry AW13 collection for men
But that would be me showing my age, for in recent years, the manbag has undergone a reputation overhaul and now is the accepted accessory of nary a man, regardless of personal style or degrees of butch, with everything from satchels to duffle bags thrown over shoulders.
Personally, I’m all for a good man bag: why should men be so heartlessly deprived of life’s greatest pastime (namely, bag shopping) while simultaneously forced to ruin the line of their trousers with overstuffed pockets? Tsk, this is an age of equality we live in and it is only right and proper that men should be able to enjoy the finer aspects of life just as we women do. But just as the most unyielding have come round to this way of thinking and begrudgingly accept that it’s possible for something other than the briefcase to be carried, Burberry have challenged us anew with the latest update to the manbag: the man clutch. I see those questioning looks on your faces; this isn’t a return of the murse, but rather streamlined bags to be carried much in the way you might your iPad, which can no doubt be handily stored inside. Burberry’s offerings included those in brightly coloured metallics (which could work with this season’s skater boy trend, in theory) but the early adopters of the trend on the street often tend to favour oversized, slouchy leather versions in simple black or brown leather, which are more ideal for those wishing to ease themselves in. There are even some to be found that come with a slim chain, so, when you tire of carrying it, you may causally adorn your shoulder. But I see I’m losing you again.
Now, this isn’t going to be for everyone, I grant you, and it may take a few more seasons for the majority to come round, but if you can pull this one off with aplomb, why you’ll look the height of sartorial elegance.
And if anyone questions your choice of accessory, simply throw them a withering look of pity, deprived as they are of the wonder of the manbag. Or failing that, pretend like it’s your girlfriend’s…
Amy Lavelle is a journalist from UK fashion comparison site Style in View. She’s contributed to a number of publications including Spindle magazine.
Get Eco Friendly Eyewear from ICU for Earth Day
Today, April 22nd, marks Earth Day. Last week, I told you how you can get great skin while supporting a green initiative, and today, I’m featuring a way you can complement your great skin and eco-friendly lifestyle with ICU Eyewear. Specs from ICU are a fashionable way you can protect your eyes, while protecting the environment. Since the launch of its first “Eco Reader” in 2006, ICU has used the most sustainable materials including bamboo, recycled metals, and other plant based materials, to manufacture many of its reading glasses, sun readers and sunglass styles.
Product Recycling Program
ICU encourages consumers to recycle their readers so materials can be repurposed. Through the company’s product return and recycling program, customers can return used eyewear to the company’s warehouse to be recycled. Glasses that are in good condition are donated to organizations that distribute eyewear to those in need. To date, ICU has donated over a 100,000 pairs of glasses through various programs worldwide. Learn more here»
Celebrate Earth Day with Kiehl’s Since 1851
Zachary Quinto and Alanis Morissette limited edition label
Earth Day is on April 22nd, 2013, and to celebrate, Kiehl’s Since 1851 has partnered with superstars Zachary Quinto and Alanis Morissette to benefit Recycle Across America (RAA), a nonprofit dedicated to delivering society-wide solutions that eliminate public confusion, stimulate the environmental economy and expedite progress. Each celebrity designed a Limited Edition label for Kiehl’s 4.2 oz. Ultra Facial Cream, depicting their vision of social responsibility. The cream will be available in Kiehl’s stores starting April 20, just in time for Earth Day. One hundred percent of the net proceeds of the cream will benefit RAA, which will use the funds raised to create 65,000 standardized recycling labels and then donate them to K-12 schools nationwide. Through this program, Kiehl’s will also be donating $50,000 to the organization.
Learn more about Alanis Morissette and Zachary Quinto for Earth Day by watcing the video below.
Kiehl’s also has an ongoing in-store recycling program called Recycle and Be Rewarded!. This program is available only in Kiehl’s free-standing stores nationwide, and allows customers to return their empty Kiehl’s bottles, tubes and jars for recycling, in exchange for product. Since 2009, Kiehl’s has recycled over 900,000 bottles! Learn more about the program here.
StriVectin EV- Get Even Dark Circle Corrector Review
FTC Disclosure: This product was provided for review.
Over the years, I have become borderline obsessed with trying to find the best concealer to hide the genetic dark circles that have tormented my face since childhood. I always thought it would be great if a product would emerge on the market that would help fade the dark casts under my eyes, and reduce the tell-tale signs of aging. Alas, such a product has emerged promising to “get even” with dark under eye circles, whether it’s caused by hereditary factors, aging or thinning skin.
What is it? StriVectin-EV Get Even Dark Circle Corrector - A breakthrough, targeted eye treatment, clinically proven to be effective on all types of dark circles. 90% of women said they saw visibly lighter dark circle in only two weeks after using the product.
What it does: StriVectin-EV’s proprietary NIA-114™ molecule enhances the effectiveness of Vitamin C Actives to brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of discoloration under the eyes.
How to apply: Lightly dab (do not rub) around the eye area.
Cost: $59.00
What I like: The luxurious cream provides instant hydration, and blends into the delicate skin around the eyes smoothly. It doesn’t leave behind any residue or tacky feeling, and also acts as a nice primer, making it easier for concealer to blend into the skin without a cakey effect. For an extra special touch, the cream’s light diffusing micas illuminates the eye area with a subtle hint of shimmer, which makes it a great choice for special occasions or for days you choose to go without makeup.
Final Result: My dark circles didn’t completely vanish, but they are noticeably lighter. It also acts as a good de-puffer; as soon as I apply the cream in the morning, my eyes look instantly brighter and refreshed. I do not have any fine lines yet, but I am a huge believer in the concept of prevention, and will continue to use the StriVectin EV- Get Even Dark Circle Corrector daily.
StriVectin-EV™ Get Even Dark Circle Corrector brightens the skin around the eyes and corrects visible signs of aging.
Event Alert: April 20th – A Nashville Beauty Event
On April 20th, Cloutier Remix, a Los Angeles based premiere hair, makeup and styling agency, will be presenting The Nashville Beauty Event, an intimate day of beauty and education, and the first of its kind in Nashville, Tennessee. The event will feature celebrity makeup artist Terri Apanasewicz, who has worked with numerous celebrities including Hillary Scott, Faith Hill, Miranda Lambert, Giselle Bundchen and Cindy Crawford, to name a few.
Terri will be speaking at two sessions: A General Consumer Session ($95) and a Professional Make Up Artist Session ($195). The first session will focus on self-application, and the second professional session will provide an in-depth look at techniques to apply makeup on others. Each seminar comes with an incredible gift of products featuring Terri’s favorite products from her kit, worth $150-$250. Click here to register or to learn more.
MEET OSCAR DE LA RENTA AT BLOOMINGDALES ON APRIL 18TH
WHAT: Celebrate the launch of Oscar de la Renta’s fragrance, Something Blue, and meet the designer with your purchase. A scent that makes a woman feel her most beautiful, Something Blue celebrates life’s most magical moments. A woman’s good luck charm for when she wants to feel her most vibrant. Feminine, romantic and full of life, Something Blue is a fragrance to cherish forever.
There will be an opportunity to purchase an exclusive Something Blue gift box, only available during the event. The gift box contains a 1.7oz Eau de Parfum Spray, 7.0oz Fragrance Candle, 4ml Deluxe Mini, 1ml Purse Vial and a Charm Necklace designed by Mr. de la Renta for $150.
WHO: Oscar de la Renta’s gift of making once-in-a-lifetime dreams come true is captured in Something Blue. Join Mr. de la Renta in celebrating the launch and meet with iconic designer.
*Arrive early to see Joanna Coles, editor-in-chief of Cosmopolitan Magazine, interview Mr. de la Renta live on Cosmo Sirius/XM Radio at 5:45pm.
WHEN: Thursday, April 18, 2013
5:45pm Live Radio Interview
6:00pm Meet Mr. de la Renta
WHERE: Bloomingdales
1000 Third Avenue at 59th Street
New York, NY 10022
Fragrances on 1
NOTE: Something Blue is available at Bloomingdales stores nationwide as well as online at www.bloomingdales.com
Steal Disney Princesses’ Fashion
Let’s be honest, what little girl doesn’t wish that she were a princess at some point in time? Heck, I’m a big girl and I still harbor princess fantasies. So, I figured what better way to live out the princess dream, than to dress like one.
For a Hot Summer Night Out – Snow White (Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs)
This modern take on the princess’ royal clothing is sure to make keep you feeling cool, while looking hot.
1. Dark Blue Floral Tapestry Corset Bustier, $44
2. Mason by Michelle Mason bright-yellow maxi skirt, $216
For a Walk in the Park – Princess Jasmine (Aladdin)
Look effortless on a sunny morning with this casual-chic ensemble.
1. Seamless Fitness Fit Spaghetti Strap Bandeau, $9.80
2. Drawstring Harem Pants, $14.50
Be the Belle of the Ball – Belle (Beauty & the Beast)
Prom season is coming up. Stand out when you walk into the room with a bright yellow ballgown.
Custom Made sweetheart Lace Up Beaded Yellow Ball Gown, US $141.12 – 158.59
