Shu Uemura Art Of Hair: Essence Absolue Nourishing Protective Oil

My hair cannot thank me enough for introducing it to the new elixir recently launched by Shu Uemura's Art of Hair line (around since 2007). Coming onto the scene this past November and already flying off of shelves, this multi-purpose elixir, the Essence Absolue Nourishing Protective Oil has been an absolute godsend as of late. The product is designed to nourish and "quench the thirst" of dry hair, while also working to eliminate frizz and protect against UV damage (wonderful to help your hair from getting fried by styling tools).

I have been applying 1.5-2 pumps of the oil mostly to the ends of my tresses where I need the hydration the most, while smoothing a bit over the top of my head (trying to avoid my roots). I have definitely noticed a difference in the way my hair has been looking, and more importantly, feeling. My hair has been touchably soft and healthier with the addition of the Essence Absolue oil and my frizz, while admittedly not completely eliminated (I think I would need a miracle for that!), has been significantly reduced. I have been using this especially when I want to keep my hair curly, and I am very happy with the results. I'm generally a no-fuss "throw my hair in a ponytail" type of girl, but I now find myself thinking twice about reaching for a clip. My curls have been looking so shiny and pretty! The product can either be used as a leave-in treatment (as I have been doing) or before shampooing.

Right now the Essence Absolue is sold out in salons internationally (it's that good!), but you can sign up at www.shuuemuraartofhair-usa.com to be informed when the product is available to order on the website.

Jennifer Aniston's stylist, Chris McMillian, swears by this oil to help him achieve the actress' signature sleek coif, and I think I have been converted as well. Next up...tackling a blow-out!

NB: This product was sent to me by a PR representative for my consideration. Though I did not purchase it myself, my review was in no way influenced by my receipt of a sample. I am dedicated to providing reviews that are 100% my own opinions, bias-free. If I ever feel that I cannot give my readers honest feedback on a product, I will not present a review for it. I am here to inform, and publishing untruthful thoughts is neither beneficial to those who visit my blog nor to me.

Dermalogica Free Gift With Purchase!

Just a heads up, lovelies! Order online at the Dermalogica website until December 31st, and receive a FREE Stress Relief Candle with your purchase ($28 value).

While an incentive to indulge in Dermalogica products really is not necessary, a stress-relieving candle sure sounds wonderful right about now! Anyone else feeling overwhelmed by the Holiday madness??

(seed) Grape Seed Enriched Body Lotion: An All-Natural Way To Wake Up Tired Skin

I have been plagued with dry, itchy, irritated skin, notably on my arms and legs, that gets especially bad with the sudden drops in temperature. I have tried a host of body lotions, but I have found that some just can't properly quench my thirsty skin, while others leave my skin feeling a little bit too greasy (this is not to say that I haven't found some that have worked for me!)

I am always up for trying new products (especially beauty and skincare that are all-natural), so of course I was excited to see how a lotion from (seed) Body Care would perform on my sensitive skin. (seed) is a brand with which I had previously had no experience. Well, ever since it appeared on my radar screen, I have been really intrigued by it. The line's range of skin and hair care - body lotions, soaps, and shampoo/conditioner - is 100% free of parabens, preservatives, and artificial colors, and are not tested on animals. The premise behind (seed)'s products is the notion that the grape seed contains powerful and potent antioxidant properties as well as vitamins and essential fatty acids. These features help to enrich the body and maintain its health. All of their products contain grape seed oil.

For the past few days I have been using the brand's Nourishing Body Lotion Invigorating Citrus Blend every night, post-shower. I have honestly been amazed at how my skin has been responding. The lotion is very light and seeps into the skin almost immediately. I found that I didn't have to apply much effort to work the cream into my skin. My skin has been feeling invigorated and refreshed. Along with grape seed oil, this lotion also contains sunflower seed oil, shea butter (to condition and soothe), as well as citrus oils and rosemary. The scent is very pleasant and clean. With continued use, I am confident that my dry skin will continue to improve!

(seed)'s line of products can be found online at www.seedpowerbodycare.com. The body lotion retails for about $20, and it, along with the rest of the product offerings can be purchased through Amazon.com.

NB: This product was sent to me by a PR representative for my consideration. Though I did not purchase it myself, my review was in no way influenced by my receipt of a sample. I am dedicated to providing reviews that are 100% my own opinions, bias-free. If I ever feel that I cannot give my readers honest feedback on a product, I will not present a review for it. I am here to inform, and publishing untruthful thoughts is neither beneficial to those who visit my blog nor to me.

YSL Beauty Friends And Family Sale!!

I have some fantastic news that just might make some of you very happy this Holiday season! Until December 20th, beauty orders made online at the YSL website will receive a discount of 20% off!! If you have been eyeing anything, this is definitely your opportunity to indulge (we all know, ladies, that YSL does not come cheap!) Enter FF2009 at checkout to redeem the offer. In addition, you'll also get FREE 3-day shipping.

Say it ain't so! Is there anything you have been drooling over?

FACEatelier Lip Glaze: There Is Nothing Sticky About This Situation

Impossibly smooth and moisturizing, FACEatelier's Lip Glaze is like luxury in a squeeze tube! I recently tested out my first product from this cruelty-free beauty brand, and you all know my initial foray had to begin with a lip product! I was very impressed with the texture of this Lip Glaze. It is completely devoid of any stickiness or tackiness and the formula is one of the most hydrating I have experienced. The consistency of the gloss is not too thick, and I have no "lip gunk" or lip flaking whatsoever as the gloss wore down. The gloss has no detectable scent.

The Lip Glaze is available in ten gorgeous and flattering shades - Ice, Arctic Gold, Flamingo, Peach, Dianthus, Primrose, Cameo, Plum, Shiraz, and Clear. The colors seem to span the gamut. There are pinks, berries, and nudes. I tested out Primrose, a beautiful hue that is a my "lips but better" color, that has a slight shimmer to it. My lips are naturally very rosy, and this color enhances this feature very nicely. I have especially been finding myself grabbing for this gloss on those days where I just find that I can't be bothered putting on a full face of makeup. It is the perfect shiny pick-me-up!

Primrose Lip Glaze on my lips

I love that the Lip Glaze applies effortlessly from a slant-tip tube. I find that this applicator helps to provide the perfect amount of the product to my lips. I was also pleasantly surprised by the amount of gloss that comes in the tube. For $22 you get a healthy .5 fl. oz. of gloss.

Like glass for your lips, this product is just wonderful! You can shop online at www.faceatelier.com as well as at a variety of retailers around this country and others.


NB: This product was sent to me by a PR representative for my consideration. Though I did not purchase it myself, my review was in no way influenced by my receipt of a sample. I am dedicated to providing reviews that are 100% my own opinions, bias-free. If I ever feel that I cannot give my readers honest feedback on a product, I will not present a review for it. I am here to inform, and publishing untruthful thoughts is neither beneficial to those who visit my blog nor to me.

And The Winner Is.....

Shawnta!!!! Congrats, you have won the Lierac Paris Jet Set Beaute Travel Kit! Please email your mailing address to askthebeautychick@gmail.com. I want to thank everyone who participated in my first giveaway. Don't worry, it will not be the last!

LORAC Sale On HauteLook.com!!

So it kind of feels like I have been posting frequently on LORAC as of late, but they keep exploding onto the scene with some incredible deals on their amazing product line! I wanted to apprise you all of the exclusive sale that is going to be taking place on HauteLook.com. From Wednesday December 9, at 8 AM PST, until Thursday December 10, at 11 PM PST, check out HauteLook.com to receive great discounts of 50-75% off select LORAC products. Items that will be included in the sale are eyeshadow trios, lip polishes, lipsticks, and a variety of value sets.

Don't miss out on this event! Register at www.hautelook.com and shop away!

Holiday Gift Idea #8: The Shaker Infinity Scarf From The Limited

Functionality meets fashion with the Shaker Infinity Scarf from The Limited. I have been loving the trend lately, and with the weather really getting cold in the NYC area, The Limited's version is particularly appealing. Constructed of a chunky knit, this scarf is bound to keep you warm on the chilliest of days. The versatility of this scarf is a great, too. It is formed as a big circle, and can be worn a number of different ways (hence the "infinity" part of its name!) You can wrap it around for the double-layered look, you can wear it as a multi-length scarf, and you could even wear it pulled around your shoulders as a shrug. Whether they be beauty products or fashion pieces, you all should know by now that I love multi-purpose, multi-functional items!

I could see this being a great gift for a variety of women in your lives - mothers, sisters, and friends. Everyone wants to look cute while dressing for the cold temperatures!

The Limited Shaker Infinity Scarf comes in a variety of beautiful colors. You can find them at The Limited stores as well as online at www.thelimited.com. It is currently on sale for $23.70 as well (down from $39.50). What a great deal!

Styling Tip: Dress the scarf up and add a little character by attaching a brooch of your choice!

It's Time For A Giveaway!!

As promised, I am bringing you The Beauty Chick's first ever giveaway (and I have to say, I am very excited!!) The rules for the giveaway will be quite simple. Firstly, in order to be eligible to win the prize, you must be a registered follower of The Beauty Chick blog. Secondly, you must leave a comment on this post naming something that is on your holiday wish list this year. I will randomly select a winner from among those who have left comments.

The prize for this giveaway will be a fantastic travel skincare set from Lierac Paris, the Jet Set Beaute Kit (valued at $60). Inside a large white makeup bag adorned with the Lierac logo, you will receive five mini and full-size products: Repair Mains hand lotion, Concentre Mesolift (a toning radiance serum), Diopticalm Eye Cream (for fatigued or irritated eyes), Cleansing Water, and Coherence Jour (an age-defense firming day cream). All of the products are also part of the permanent Lierac line.

The giveaway will be closed on Friday, December 11th at 12:00 AM EST. Those who are under 18 must receive parental consent to send me their address to claim the prize should they win.

Be sure to check out www.lierac-usa.com to see the full range of products in the Lierac skincare line. Lierac products are also available in select CVS/pharmacy, Duane Reade, and Longs Drugs locations. I also wanted to let you know that until December 6th, Lierac is holding their Friends and Family sale. Customers will receive a 30% discount on all orders made online at the website!

Good luck everyone!!

Holiday Gift Idea #7: LORAC 3's A Crowd Makeup Collection

Ever find yourself standing in front of a makeup counter unable to decide which colors to purchase? Well, LORAC has made our lives a little bit simpler with their new VIP set, 3's A Crowd, exclusive to the LORAC website. The collection features three shades each of lipstick, lip polish, and loose pigments. The colors are all beautiful and wearable. The metallic pigments and the gorgeous red lipstick particularly intrigue me. They are the perfect choices to dress up your look for a holiday bash!

The Shades:

Lipsticks:

Imagine (matte)
Explore (matte)
Tango (cream)


Lip Polishes:

Bliss
Delicious
Sizzle


Glam Rock Metallic Loose Pigment Eyeshadows:

Metallic Pearl
Metallic Gold
Metallic Copper

Not only has LORAC taken some of the guess work out of the selection process, but they're also offering this set for a super affordable $19.50!! That is a serious deal!

The only bad part is that this set will only be available for a limited time at www.loraccosmetics.com, while supplies last, so snatch this set up while you can!

Get Your Shoe On At The Nine West Friends And Family Event!

Have you been waiting to pick up a new pair of boots or a cute pair of heels to wear to this year's holiday parties? Now's your opportunity! From December 3-December 7, shop at Nine West locations or online at http://www.ninewest.com/ and receive 30% off of your entire purchase. No code is necessary to redeem the offer online. The discount will be computed automatically.

Bath And Body Works Intoxicates With Twilight Woods

I'm going to preface my short anecdote by saying that I'm generally one of those girls who walks by the salesperson urging you to try the latest and greatest fragrance, knowing very well that she (or he) is going to try to push the product on you (and I know I don't generally have self-control!) However, one day a few weeks ago, I walked into my local Bath and Body Works store and for once stopped to test out the new scent that the saleswoman was sampling. I smiled and nodded along in agreement with everything she was telling me about the new addition to their Signature Collection, and told her I would walk around and browse and think it over. I actually found myself pleasantly surprised! I traipsed around the store for a good ten minutes sniffing the card upon which the fragrance had been sprayed. Though I left the store empty handed, I caught myself inhaling the sweet-smelling fumes all the way to my next destination. I was smitten!!

A new addition to the Bath and Body Works line, the Twilight Woods collection boasts a variety of products for the skin and bath - an eau de toilette, a hand lotion, a body butter, and a shower gel, to name a few. The scent is so light and pretty, refreshing, feminine, and romantic. It is beautiful and comforting, and plays harmoniously with the senses, enveloping you in its midst. The fragrance is definitely one that I can see being very popular with a range of customers. While it is not a novel scent per se, it does have a very "hypnotic" quality to it. You won't be able to turn away! The notes include juicy berry, soft mimosa, apricot nectar, and warm woods. I particularly love the mix of the fruity (my favorite!) with the "heavier" woody tones. The result is pure bliss for the olfactory system!

Needless to say, I headed back to the store about a week later and picked up the Twilight Woods Fragrance Mist ($12) for myself! I guess I couldn't resist for too long (and no, the word "twilight" in the scent's moniker played zero role in my decision to buy it!)

I highly recommend checking out the Twilight Woods selections in your local Bath and Body Works locale or online at www.bathandbodyworks.com. Simply intoxicating!

They Say It's Your Birthday! Happy Birthday To You! The Beauty Chick Celebrates Its Six Month Milestone!!

I am so excited to share with you all that today marks six months that I have been blogging on The Beauty Chick. It has been an amazing journey thus far, and I only hope that things continue on this path. I have enjoyed sharing with you my thoughts on different products and news of the the latest beauty sales. Interacting with you has been most rewarding (keep commenting!)

In celebration of reaching this milestone (a big accomplishment in the world of beauty blogging), I am going to be holding my first giveaway. Details of that will follow shortly, but I am going to require that you are an official "follower" of The Beauty Chick in order to be eligible to win.

I want to write about things that interest you, so I want to urge you to comment and let me know what you would like to see here in the future. I am more than open to hearing your suggestions!! If there are certain products for which you would be interested in seeing a review, please do not hesitate to make me aware of them!

I am beyond appreciative to those of you who take the time to read my beauty musings and hope that you will all continue to stop by!

xoxo
The Beauty Chick

Just In Time For The Holidays!!! Special Personalized Boutique Code For The Beauty Chick Readers!

I previously reported to you about Personalized Boutique, a fantastic site for super cute, high-quality personalized jewelry pieces (see here for the post). I now want to let you know of a great offer that I'm currently running along with that site. From November 30-December 7, all orders made within the US (I'm sorry to any of my readers who are living out of the country!) will receive FREE Fed-Ex shipping. All you have to do to redeem this offer is enter BEAUTY-CHICK in the coupon code section at checkout.

I really urge you to take advantage of this offer if you can! I don't have anything to gain from recommending this site to you. I just really love the products that this company presents. I really think you or your loved one would, too!

If you do decide to purchase from Personalized Boutique, please comment and let me know what you selected!

Holiday Gift Idea #6: Urban Decay 24/7 Super Stash

Urban Decay's most recent collection of their cult favorite 24/7 eyeliner pencils, the 24/7 Super Stash, includes five of their best-selling shades, along with four colors that are exclusive to this set. The pencils are mini, smaller than the travel-size liners that the brand has previously put out, but their texture and consistency is no different - they are creamy, long-lasting, and apply easily to the upper lash line as well as to the waterline. The collection offers a great mix of colors, too. There are some that are more "subdued," while others boast some vibrant hues such as green, purple, and gold.

Included in the 24/7 Super Stash:

-Corrupt (brown sparkle) --NEW

-Binge (navy) --NEW

-Eldorado (gold) --NEW

-Oil Slick (black w/sparkle) --NEW

-Zero (black)

-Graffiti (bright green w/silver sparkle)

-Ransom (bright iridescent purple)

-Rockstar (dark purple)

-Stash (dark golden green)

These eyeliners will help give your eyes the perfect pop of color, a little "somethin', somethin'" extra to a simple neutral look. You could even use these pencils as bases for eyeshadows.

You can find the 24/7 Super Stash at Sephora stores, www.sephora.com, Ulta locations and www.ulta.com, and online at the Urban Decay website, www.urbandecay.com. The set retails for $36.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I've taken some time to reflect on those things for which I am particularly thankful this year. I feel like a lot has happened in my life since the last Holiday season, and I'm hoping the future keeps getting brighter!

I appreciate all of those who have stuck with me through the good and the bad, my family and my friends, both old and new, and those who have taken the time to follow and subscribe to my little beauty blog. You all mean so much to me (and yes, I include all of you with whom I have had some fun chats on Twitter!) I'm thankful for my health and happiness, and I hope my path in life continues to become clear.

Thank you, thank you all!

xoxo The Beauty Chick

Smashbox Friends and Family Sale Starts Today!

For all of you Smashbox fans out there (and for newbies as well!), I wanted to let you know that from now until December 1 you will receive a discount of 20% on your orders made at the Smashbox website. Simply enter the code SBFF9 to redeem the offer.

Happy shopping!

Bobbi Brown Friends and Family Event!

Shop online at the Bobbi Brown website from November 30-December 2 and receive 20% off of your order. The discount is automatically registered at checkout.

I'm definitely snagging that third Chrome Eyeshadow shade that I couldn't get my hands on! What about you?

Holiday Gift Idea #5: Powder, Powder, Powderazzi

Powderazzi from Benefit is a neat little boxed compilation of three of the brand's best-selling face powders. Included are Coralista, a coral pink blush, Hoola, a bronzing powder, and Dallas, a rosy bronze blush. All are very smooth to apply and have nice pigmentation. They even have a fresh fruity scent that makes putting on these products that more enjoyable. Along with the powders you will also find a small brush applicator.

Going this route is definitely a great way to sample. All of these are permanent colors in Benefit's line, and, in my mind anyway, it makes sense to test out the shades before you commit yourself to the full-size products. I've been eyeing Coralista for a really long time, but I couldn't justify spending $28 on the individual box when I already have other peachy pink shades in my makeup collection. When I came across this set, though, it was just too hard to resist!

I'm also a huge fan of Benefit packaging (call me a sucker for cute packaging!) Pop this compact pink box into a stocking or give it to your makeup-loving girlfriend. Who wouldn't want to upwrap this little pretty?

Powderazzi can be found at Ulta stores and online at http://www.ulta.com/. It retails for $30.

NB: I purchased this product myself.

LUSH's None Of Your Beeswax Lip Balm: A Vegan-Friendly Treat For The Lips

I am a veritable newbie to the LUSH line (I am sure that there are 1000's of LUSH-aholics who would like to kick me in my rear end after that admission!), but I am trying to ease myself into the brand slowly. I fear - or rather my wallet fears! - that once I go LUSH, there is no turning back!

One of LUSH's lip balms, None of Your Beeswax, has, over the past few months, made it into my beauty product arsenal. I have especially taken to using it at bedtime, as it leaves my lips feeling super soft and smooth the next day. The balm's scent mixes vanilla and lemon, and the texture is the perfect balance of waxy and soft. Unlike some of the other potted lip balms I have used, my finger does not sink in and pick up too much product.

This product is also 100% Vegan. Though I myself do not follow such a diet, I can appreciate the fact that this balm is suitable for those who do. The ingredients are all natural and include extra virgin coconut oil, carnuba wax, and murmur butter, to help keep lips feeling moisturized. You can rest assured that while this product will work tirelessly to soothe your pout, using it won't weigh heavily on your conscience!

You can find None of Your Beeswax at LUSH stores and online at http://www.lush.com/. It retails for $6.95.

This would make a yummy stocking stuffer for friends or family. As the saying goes....friends don't let friends....go without kissably soft lips! Right? ;-)

NB: This product was sent to me by a PR representative for my consideration. Though I did not purchase it myself, my review was in no way influenced by my receipt of a sample. I am dedicated to providing reviews that are 100% my own opinions, bias-free. If I ever feel that I cannot give my readers honest feedback on a product, I will not present a review for it. I am here to inform, and publishing untruthful thoughts is neither beneficial to those who visit my blog nor to me.

The Payot Paris Payoff - Rescue Your Legs!

There's nothing like standing on your feet for six hours (or more) to leave your legs feeling sore. In the past, Advil has been my friend for dealing with achey muscles, but I have discovered a pill-free way of mollifying the pain.

Payot Paris, a company founded by Dr. Nadia Payot, features products that speak to the well-being of the body and the importance of maintaining its balance with the mind and the soul. The brand utilizes scientific research to devise high-quality skincare that is equipped to tackle an array of conditions.

As I have been racking up time working a retail job for the Holidays, I have found myself turning to the line's Soin Jambes Légères, a light gel, that when applied to the legs, provides an immediate cooling sensation that effectively relaxes the muscles and helps to relieve achiness and fatigue. It is amazing how the gel works on contact. Post shower, I have been massaging this gel into my legs, from my feet and ankles to my thighs. The non-sticky and non-greasy formula contains Hermatite Extract, along with other tissue decongestants, to help improve blood circulation, while maintaining the skin's moisture.

A godsend in a tube? I think so! My sore legs have never felt better....medicine-free!

For a list of Payot retailers in your area as well as spa locations, check out http://www.payot.com/.

NB: This product was sent to me by a PR representative for my consideration. Though I did not purchase it myself, my review was in no way influenced by my receipt of a sample. I am dedicated to providing reviews that are 100% my own opinions, bias-free. If I ever feel that I cannot give my readers honest feedback on a product, I will not present a review for it. I am here to inform, and publishing untruthful thoughts is neither beneficial to those who visit my blog nor to me.

Holiday Gift Idea #4: Philosophy Presents The Perfect Winter Escape

Philosophy is known for their great skincare and bath products (their Purity cleanser is one of my all-time favorites), and The Winter Escape collection boasts some items that are no exception. Practically begging for use on a weekend trip to the ski lodge, this mini compilation kit features three wonderful "let's come in from the cold" products. I don't know about you, but I gravitate towards beauty items that smell yummy (particularly like chocolate!) - lip glosses, lotions, shower gels, shampoos, you name it!

Included in the set are a 4.0 oz Peppermint Hot Cocoa Shampoo, Shower Gel & Bubble Bath, 0.5 oz Melting Marshmallow Cream Lip Shine, and a 2.0 oz Melting Marshmallow Cream Body Soufflé. I particularly like this collection because it features a lip balm along with the 3-in-1 shower product and lotion. It should be quite apparent, by now, that I simply cannot refuse a lip gloss. I won't even try anymore!

Philosophy has definitely hit the nail on the head when they recognized that a marriage of hot chocolate and marshmallows is a no-brainer. All that could possibly be missing from the mix is some whipped cream!

The Winter Escape kit retails for $25 and can be found at Sephora stores and online at http://www.sephora.com/.

Who knew beauty could be so delicious?

Holiday Gift Idea #3: Personalized Boutique Offers So Much More Than Bling

I'm back at you again with another post that I hope you might find helpful as you search for the perfect Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanza presents for your loved ones. This gift idea is especially apt for those friends (or family members, obviously) with whom you have a close relationship and for whom you really want to get something with that personalized touch.

I stumbled upon PersonalizedBoutique.com, a fantastic website (a family-owned company, I might add) that offers a wide array of high quality and personalized jewelry pieces, when I was on the hunt for a name necklace (a la Carrie of Sex and the City) last spring. I have always wanted a signature necklace, even before Sarah Jessica Parker made the neck candy famous, but I was never able to find a quality piece. I was searching for something that wasn't too flimsy, a sturdy item that I would not have to worry might bend or break on me.

You could say I did my research before making my purchase. I spent at least a month checking the site, reading reviews, emailing back and forth with the owner of the company in order to decide the style that suited me best. What helped with my choice and made me extremely comfortable with the ordering process was the amazing (and when I say amazing, I really mean it!) customer service and individualized attention that I felt my questions were receiving. The testimonials also made me feel secure in my decision to purchase from this website. I'm always wary of online shopping. However, the way that I was handled was particularly reassuring. I could not have been happier.

PersonalizedBoutique.com, in addition to offering the traditional name plate necklaces, also has a large selection of other personalized items. From rings to bracelets and anklets to individual charms, this company has it all (and they are very receptive to any and all requests for personalized pieces that they don't currently offer!) Jewelry is offered in yellow gold as well as Sterling silver. Prices vary by piece, but the necklace I ordered was $175, which I thought was very reasonable considering the strength, quality, and construction of the 14k gold piece.

I know I just gave you a lot of information about my personal experience with the company, but I just want you to know how much I respect the way they work from start to finish (and I'm not just singing their praises willy nilly). I would not hesitate to order from them again.

I highly suggest that you scope out http://www.personalizedboutique.com/ if you are looking for that extra special way to bring a smile to a loved one's face this Holiday season.

Who doesn't love jewelry, right? ;-)

Holiday Gift Idea #2: Chanel Mini Glossimer Trio

I came across these really cute Mini Glossimer Trio sets from Chanel when I went to check out the beauty floor at SAKS a few weeks ago. I am a huge fan of these glosses (I have Mica and Coral Reef). They are super silky smooth, not sticky, and have a gorgeous shine to them. They vary in finish, but most I have seen seem to contain some shimmer (not chunky glitter, but rather a subtle sparkle). Others are a little frosty, while a few are cream formulas, completely devoid of any shimmer or sheen. The only thing I don't love about the Glossimers, I would have to say, would be the price tag. A regular full-size gloss goes for $27 (ouch!)

I have been eyeing some more of these babies, but have relegated them to my wish list because they are pretty pricey. Cue in the trios! Though they have been available previously, these gloss collections are only around for the holiday season. There are two different versions of the limited edition sets, two tonalities if you will. The first, Les Soleils, features some beautiful warm shades - Pin-Up, a beige peach, Coral Reef, a pink beige, and Glow, a bronze peach. The cool set, Les Roses, includes Magnifique, a sparkly pink, Glaze, a white pink, and Satinette, a pearl pink. I think this is the perfect way to give the gift of luscious lips (or if it's for yourself, a great way to get your feet wet and test out a few of Chanel's best-selling shades!) The packaging of the sets themselves look gorgeous, too (but we are talking Chanel, of course). Each comes housed in a black box, adorned with the traditional Chanel logo, within a larger gold package.

Any luxe lip gloss lovers in your lives? These sets retail for $50, and are available at SAKS stores and online at http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/.

Kiss kiss!!

Get Ready To Shop!! The Urban Decay F+F Sale Is Back!!!

It's that time again! Urban Decay is holding their famous Friends and Family event! From November 9-20, receive 30% off on all purchases made at the Urban Decay website. To redeem the offer, enter the code FNFW1 at checkout.

Now is the perfect time to stock up on all of your Holiday gifts (for the make-up lovers you know, of course!) as well any items you have been eyeing for yourself. I would personally recommend the Book of Shadows Vol. 2 ;-)

Thoughts??

Holiday Gift Idea #1: Kirkland Signature Brush Set

With the Holidays rapidly approaching (Thanksgiving is only about three weeks away!), I have decided that, as I come across items that I think would make great gifts, I will dedicate specific posts to those items. I have already mentioned some great gift ideas (such as the uber-affordable LORAC set and the Tarte palette and kits), but I will now start highlighting products that I love, and think would make particularly fantastic presents, as "Holiday Gift Ideas."


So, this brings me to the first item on my list. Every Holiday season, Costco puts out their brush sets, their Kirkland Signature by Borghese multi-piece collections. Each year, the collections are a little bit different. For example, the brushes included may vary, the bristle color is not always the same, and the brush bags themselves are generally slightly different in style (some are zip-up, some are wrap-around with a snap closure) from season to season.


The Holiday '09 collection features 15 pieces. There are 8 full-size brushes - 3 face brushes and 5 eye brushes. The brushes fit neatly into a black quilted zip-up case. In addition, there is also a set of 4 mini travel-size brushes that come housed within their own matching brush case.


Full-Size Brushes:


Large Powder Brush
Flat-Top Bronzer Brush
Angled Foundation Brush
Eye Shadow Brush
Eye Blending Brush
Flat Eyeliner Brush
Eye Smudger
Brow Brush & Spooley Duo

Mini Brushes:

Travel-Size Powder Brush
Travel-Size Concealer Brush
Travel-Size Eye Blending Brush
Travel-Size Flat Eyeliner Brush

The collection also includes an eyelash curler with an extra rubber pad.

L-R: Large Powder Brush, Flat-Top Bronzer Brush, Angled Foundation Brush

L-R: Eye Shadow Brush, Eye Blending Brush, Flat Eyeliner Brush, Eye Smudger, Brow Brush & Spooley Duo

L-R: Travel-Size Powder Brush, Blending Brush, Concealer Brush, and Flat Eyeliner Brush

All of the brushes included are of very nice quality, super soft with substantial black handles. The bristles are black with white tips (note that the white of the bristles is just for "character;" unlike the MAC 187 brush, for instance, which features two different types of bristles). The set retails for $19.99, making for a very affordable gift.

The set is available at Costco locations and online at http://www.costco.com/.

Sweet 16 (+10): Birthday Fun With Friends...And NARS

Tuesday marked my 26th birthday. Though I'm not usually one to do anything too extravagant for birthdays, I decided to spend some of the late afternoon and evening in NYC. On the agenda was a stop at MAC Pro, a bit of a disappointment since the only thing set on my wishlist, the Lip Erase, was out of stock. All was not lost, though, as the Cupcake Stop , a mobile cupcake vendor, had their truck stationed about a block away from the MAC store. The policy is that you get a free cupcake of your choice on your birthday, so I opted for a scrumptious Red Velvet (see below for a photo from the website...I forgot to snap a picture of the little beauty before I inhaled it lol).

After a bit of solo time, I met up with my beauty "partner in crime" and adopted little sister, Adina of Krasey Beauty for some much needed (OK, so it wasn't really needed) beauty retail therapy. I'm not going to lie. I actually went into SAKS soley with the intention of purchasing a new foundation (I had been debating between NARS Sheer Glow and Armani Luminous Silk). Needless to say, I ended up with a few more items than I had planned (I got caught up in the loveliness at the NARS counter). Behold, the damage....

Sheer Glow Foundation in Mont Blanc

Concealer in Honey

Powder Foundation in Mont Blanc

Douceurs de Paris (Pleasures of Paris) Palette (limited edition)

From L-R, T-B: Nepal, Violetta, Demon Lover, Cordura, Abyssinia, Fez

Lip Laquer in Chelsea Girls

Botan Brush

After some lovely time with Adina, who always seems to have some "NARS-fluence" on me, I headed downtown to meet Aja, of Don't Forget the Lip Gloss, and Nancy, of The Informed Makeup Maven, for some dinner at Buddakan, a very hip and trendy Asian-inspired restaurant (one of my all-time favorite cuisines, I might add!) The food was yummy, the company even better.

It was a really great birthday. Not to sound cheesy (OK, here comes the cheese...), but honestly my most meaningful birthdays are those spent with friends and family. It's not about what I'm doing to celebrate, however, but it's about being with people whose time I value and with whom I can just let myself enjoy being in the moment. **I am through with the sappiness/seeming cliches now**

I will leave you all with some photos of the birthday cake my mom made me. It was (well, actually, it still is...leftovers abound!) a pumpkin spice layer cake with a cream cheese buttercream frosting. It was delicious!