MAC Creations Hue: Dejarose

I consider one of the most under-rated fragrance lines to be the Creations Hue line that MAC carried. Many people consider their makeup to be over-rated but I don't know anyone who uses their fragrance line. Most people that I talk to aren't even aware that MAC has a fragrance line to mathc with their collections. The first scent that I bought from them was Creations Hue: Turquatic which is a watery green scent that came out last summer and that I fell in love with at first whiff.

The latest scent that they have brought out in this collection is for the A Rose Romance collection. It is called Creations Hue: Dejarose and it is mind blowing. Here is the description from the MAC website, "Intriguingly romantic; a real scent paradox, Bulgarian, Turkish, and Tea Roses mingle with orchid, lily, jasmine, and peony to create a rosy retro-scent that slips to sex the summer senses, a finale of light and dark roses, patchouli, and amber crystal". This fragrance starts with an explosion of light flowers then turns all rose. After several hours, the roses are still apparent but the base notes are beginning to come through and heat the scent up by several levels.

I love that this fragrance lasts all day and I smell it the next morning if I don't shower that night. The only drawback of these fragrance is that they come in very small bottles but that can be remedied by buying two or more at the same time. I also want to get the Pinkaura fragrance in this collection, which is another floral but with more green notes in it.

Dear readers - go to MAC, check out the makeup but hen move over the little display of fragrances and start spraying them on!

photo courtesy of MAC

MAC A Rose Romance

Well everyone...the big day came around last Thursday. No not my wedding day or graduation from school or anything that would be a big day to normal people. The big even that i am refering to the release of the newest MAC collection, A Rose Romance. I have been waiting for this collection what seems like ages and you better believe that I was at the counter on the release day scoping out all the new goodies. I found this collection to be extremely exciting but I do know that many MAC junkies found it to be somewhat basic (in comparison to other collections). I guess that I am just more of a rose junkie than a MAC junkie.

Here is the description of the collection from MAC, "From cheeks that blush, just a pinch, to soft rosebud shades and refreshingly fragrant fixes, it's a summer rose romance. Rosy pinks, faithful fuschias, and forget-me-not blues...a limited edition collection of colours to pick, persue, and ponder".

Here is the makeup part of the collection, there is a perfume with this collection that excited me so much that it gets its own separate entry.

Eye Shadow - Highly-pigmented powder. Applies evenly, blends well.

- Et tu, Bouquet? - frosted pale pink gold

- Of Summer - frosted light dirty mauve

- Creme de Violet - pink-violet with gold pearl

- Shadowy Lady - blackened plum

- Silverthorn - mid-tone grey with silver pearl

Pigment - Pigment is a highly concentrated loose color powder that contains ingredients that help it adhere to the skin. Create a subtle wash of color or an intense effect. Does not streak or cake. Easy to blend and long-lasting,

- Mutiny - clean sky blue with gold pearl

- Circa Plum - frosty dirty mid-tone lavender

Splashproof Lash - Waterproof, long-wearing, length-defining, lash-thickening and formulated to last. Won't clump, flake, or blot! Takes the splash! Go swim!

- Blacksplash - black

Lipstick - Color plus texture for the lips. Stands out on the runway. Simmers on the street! What made MAC famous.

- Way to Love - creamy light yellow pink

- A Rose Romance - mid-tone pink with gold pearl

- Odyssey - spiked up plum

Tinted Lipglass - A unique lipglass available in a wide variety of colors that create a high gloss, glass-like finish or a subtle sheen. Designed to be worn on its own, over Lip Pencil or Lipstick, Tinted Lipglass is the perfect product for creating shine that lasts. It's pigmented, very shiny, and can impart subtle or dramatic color. It contains Jojoba Oil to help soften and condition the lips. Tinted Lipglass is packaged in a convenient bottle with a sponge tip applicator that provides a quick, smooth, even application

- Virgin Kiss - sheer pale pink with multi-dimensional pearl

- Steal My Heart - sheer bright pink with multi-dimensional pearl
- Magnetique - frosted violet fuschia

See Thru Lip Color - A light-weight gel stain that deposits long-wearing transparent color on the lips. Provides an ultra sheer look and comfortable application. Refreshing in wear. Makes lips look "just kissed".

- Loving Touch - sheer pearly light pink

- Secret Crush - sheer red berry

- Tender Tryst - sheer pearly plum

Just A Pinch Gel Blush - A creamy gel blush that delivers the perfect pinch of color while remaining transparently sheer. Specially enriched formula helps keep the skin moist and fresh looking. To build color on the lips or cheeks, layer for the ultimate rosy look.

- Just A Pinch - sheer red pink tint

Rose Beauty Powder - Part of the Rose Romance collection, a rose embossed, micronized face powder that brightens and subtly highlights the skin. Ultra-light, silky, and luxurious.

- Summer Rose - soft violet pink with pearl

- Blush of Youth - clean pink with gold pearl

Fix + Rose - Our popular Fix + enhanced with rose water. Formulated from spring water, rich in added minerals, this aromatic mist refreshes, hydrates, and conditions skin while acting as a perfect finishing fix for makeup. Smells great too.

Nail Lacquer - Revolutionary new high gloss formula. Three long-wearing finishes - Cream, Sheer, and Frosted. Visibly different. Provides no-streak, no-chip finish. Contains conditioners and UV protection. Go hi-lacquer!

- Love & Friendship - creamy dirty mid-tone lavender

As I stated earlier, I will be saving the fragrance that comes with this collection for the next post. normally, I make a list of the items that I really want from each collection but this time I already bought everything before writing the entry. So what did i get? I got the eye shadows in Et Tu Bouquet? and Creme de Violet. I also got the Way to Love Lipstick and the Loving Touch See Thru Lip Color. I got the Summer Rose Beauty Powder and the Nail Lacquer. The Summer Rose beauty powder is pigmented enough for me to use it as a blush on my superpale skin but will not work that way for others with deeper skin tones. I had high hopes for the gel blush but I thought that it was too bright for my skin. I was planning on getting at least one of the Lipglasses but the two light colors had too much glitter in (glitter particles not just shimmer) and I really liked the See Thru colors after I tried them on my hand. The only thing that I want that I decided against was the Fix + Rose but if the counter still ahs any left next time I go, I might pick it up.

photo courtesy of MAC

Chanel Summer 2009 - Cote D'Azur Collection

It is now time for the Summer 2009 collection from the legendary House of Chanel. I wasn't really into the Spring collection and the assorted hippee trappings of their latest few looks so lets see if this collection might work out better for me. This collection is called Cote D'Azur Collection and it is descrbied as "Sun-kissed shades set the tone for Summer's vibrant bronzed beauty" on the Bergdorf Goodman website. Bronzy shades again aren't my cup of tea so this might not work out well for me.

Here is the collection...

Soleil Tan de Chanel (4 Facettes Bronzing Powder) - No beach time? SOLEIL TAN DE CHANEL 4 Facettes Bronzing Powder delievers a subtle, natural glow with a quartet of skin warming shades any time, anywhere.

Soleil Tan de Chanel (Precious Bronzing Loose Powder) - Your perfect tan starts here. This lightweight powder formula for face and decollete blends beautifully, without streaking, for a sun-kissed look that is completely natural. Limited Edition.

- Effect Hale - soft copper

Joues Contrast (Powder Blush) - Unique powder blusher imparts a flattering radiance to cheeks. As a highlight, gives a healthy glow. Use to accentuate features (cheekbones, eyes forehead, chin) for a professional result. Remarkably silky texture for easy application and subtle shading. Natural hair brush. Accentuate cheekbones for a youthful look. Softer tones around the eyes soften expression and rejuvenate.

- In Love - pink coral

Lumieres Facettes (Iridescent Effects Eyes) - A luminous palette with four pyramids of shimmery colour that can be worn on eyelids individually, in complementary pairs, or in striking contrast.

- Plein Soleil - quartet of pinks and bronzes

Ombre d'Eau (Fluid Iridescent Eye Shadow) - Fluid eye shadow imparts a long-lasting veil of iridescent colour, from subtle to intense. Achieves a cool 'ray of light' effect that lasts hour after beautiful hour. Bi-phase liquid powder shakes to combine for a lightweight colour and feel. Hydro-soluble polymer guarantees a long-lasting result. Soft and light aquatic materials minimize lines and dryness. Shake before use. For intense colour, apply shadow directly to lid and allow it to dry completely. For a more subtle effect, apply shadow to lid, then blend with fingertip before it has dried.

- Seashore - copper rose

- Source - pink gold

Inimitable Mascara (Mascara Multi-Dimensional) - The mascara that delivers it all - volume, length, curl, and precise separation - is now in waterproof. The original ahead-of-the-curve formula and unique brush design deliver exceptionally gorgeous lashes that stay that way, even through inclement weather or time in the pool.

- Noir - black

Ombre Essentialle (Soft Touch Eye Shadow) - An instant CHANEL classic, this ultra-fine powder eye shadow is senuous in feel, foolproof in its application, fabulous in its range of finishes: matte, shimmer, and satin. All shades are complementary and can be blended with one another to lighten, darken, or intensify tone.

- Island - soft beach

- Sand - dark beige

Aqualumiere (Sheer Color Lipshine SPF 15) - Imparts brilliant color with a semi-transparent effect. A brilliant pop of sheer colour and ultra-creamy texture provide an immediate sensation of softness and comfort. Lips are throughly hydrated with a nourishing, soothing, and fortifying action. The formula delivers total protection against outdoor damage. Smooth, lightweight formula imparts ultra-sheer, transparent coverage. Vitamin E provides free radical protection and comfort. Vitamin B helps increase ability of lips to retain moisture. SPF 15 provides UVA/UVB protection.

- Lipari - fresh strawberry

- Ischia - rose violet

- Porto Rotondo - vibrant red

- Monte-Carlo - red coral

- Salina - pink beige

- Panarea - soft brown

Aqualumiere Gloss (High Shine Sheer Concentrate) - New AQUALUMIERE GLOSS High-Shine Sheer Concentrate puts the provocative in pretty with a combination of bold shine and stunning colour that redefines the look of gloss. CHANEL innovation means it's ultra-lightweight in feel - and brushes on for sheer coverage with maximum brillance.

- Candy Glow - pink apricot

- Cherry Blossom - cerise pink

- Tangerine Dream - peach coral

- Ginger Shimmer - copper gold

Le Vernis (Nail Color) - Long-lasting, chip-resistant nail colour. Fashion-forward and basic go-with-everything shades. Brillance to your fingertips with must-have colours from the runways of Paris. State-of-the-art formula strengthens and moisturizes nails. Unique patented non-spill bottle with wiping action for easy application.

- Orange Fizz - bright coral

- Golden Sand - rich copper

I didn't have high hopes for this collection after seeing the description but I must say that Chanel may have proven me wrong. It seems that many of these shades have a pink tone in them and there is a range of shades (therefore they may actually have something that will work with my pale skin). I actually want a large amount of this collection. To start off, I really want to get the Soleil Tan de Chanel and Lumieres Facettes. I also want the In Love shade of the Joues Contrastes. I want both of the shades of the liquid eye shadow and the Island shade of the powder shadow. Lip wise, I also want quite a bit from this collection. I want the lipstick in Ischia and Saline and the lip glosses in Cherry Blossom and Candy Glow. I haven't be wowed by the past few Chanel collections but this one might be able to turn my recent views on their collections around.

photo courtesy of Bergdorf Goodman

Korres Basil Lemon Shower Gel

I currently own about 200 gallons of shower gel but of course that never stops me from trying new brands and scents. Korres has long been a favorite brand of mine for body products, their Mint Tea shower gel is among one of my favorite products that I have ever used. So I feel completely confident in picking up any product from this line.

This line originated in Greece and here is a quick description of them from the Sephora website, "With roots in the oldest homeopathic pharmacy in Athens, Greece, the history of Korres is as rich as the formulas of the natural products they create. From yogurt to wild rose, watermelon to guava, their roster of ingredients reads more like a grocery list - and also delievers maximum skincare benefits. Using only top quality active plant extracts that enchant the senses and effectively treat the skin, it's no surprise that Korres also chooses to leave out synthetic ingredients like mineral oil and propylene glycol from all their formulas. The same skin-loving active natural ingredients are used in Korres' latest award-winning color collection of wearable, nature inspired shades made from organically grown, botanical ingredients. From powerful (and pamper-full!) skincare and body products to expert makeup with benefits, Korres is a brand that brings beauty back to nature - and brings out the Greek goddess in all of us."

The latest product that I am using from this line is the Basil Lemon shower gel. It is a fantastic mix of the two elements and is super-refreshing. This would be perfect for the summertime. Sephora states that 'Each of these divinely scented, creamy, foaming shower gels contains wheat proteins, aloe, vitamins, and antioxidant enzymes for long lasting hydration and protection." They are also formulated without parabens and strong chemicals so this is a great choice from someone with sensitive skin or who is interested in living a greenr lifestyle. This product also has a matching body milk that I will be seeking out next time that I head into Sephora.

photo courtesy of Sephora

Lilly Pultizer Beachy

Earlier this spring, i talked about the first fragrance that was released by design house Lilly Pultizer. I was on the Sephora website when I realized that they released two more fragrances, in addition to Wink. One is called Beachy and one is called Squeeze. The one that we are going to talk about today is Beachy, we will save Squeeze for another day soon.

The first thing that I noticed about Beachy is that it comes in a beautiful aqua bottle and reminds me of the color of a tropical ocean. Here is the description of the fragrance from Sephora, "Take a vacation with Lilly Pultizer Beachy and discover that Palm Beach isn't just a place, it's a state of mind. Escape to the shore, no matter the season and lose yourself in a world of fun and relaxation. Beachy opens with notes of sliced watermelon, sunny citrus, and marine air accord. The heart blooms into an intoxicating bouquet of jasmine blossom, tiare flower, and lush frangipani. The sun sets on the fragrance with a blend of sea crystals, golden amber, and sweet vanilla. Follow the sun!" This sounds very much like an Island Micheal Kors type of fragrance, which for me is a good thing!

The notes are right here - Watermelon, Citrus, Marine Air Accord, Jasmine, Tiare Flower, Frangipani, Salt Crystals, Amber, Vanilla.

I am a little intrigued by the watermelon note in this fragrance, hopefully this won't turn me into a watermelon Jolly Rancher. I love any fragrace that has marine air in it and the notes of tropical flowers make this fragrance even more exciting for me.

This fragrance is already making me think of mini dresses and beaches. One point in summer beauty's favor!

photo courtesy of Sephora

Essie Neon Collection

One of the first nail polish shades that I ever practically hit the bottom of the bottle on was Essie’s Ballet Slippers. I first saw this color on J. Lo. And fell in love with how delicate and pretty it was and decided to watch for it every time that I went shopping. At the time, it was their best selling shade (and it may still be) so I had a hard time getting my hands on a bottle of it. But when I did, I used that polish almost every single time that I gave myself a manicure.

Their newest collection is for this spring and summer and it is far from the pastels that this company has become known for. But that is not necessarily a bad thing, it is fun to change up one’s look during the warmer months and get ready for warmer weather. And for someone like myself, these colors might for better on toes than on hands, at least to start out with. I tend to a get a bright or dark shade and use it first on toes to build up my comfort level then begin using it in manicures. This collection is called the Neon Collection.

Here are the colors…

- Flirty Fuchsia - flaming 'hot pink' magenta is deep and rich nail polish

- Funky Limelight - brilliant day-glo yellow nail polish has just a hint of lime.
- Perky Purple - Electric boogie violet is a purple nail polish that pops.

- Punchy Pink - Delicious berry icicle is the perfect bright pink nail polish.

As I already said, using these colors in a manicure would be way out of my comfort but I would try them in a pedicure and see how much I liked wearing this much color. I like all of the shades except for the Funky Limelight, yellow is still way too far out of my comfort zone. But I’m thinking that the other shades could work with my new black halter bikini at the beach.

photo courtesy of Essie

MAC Double Dazzle

MAC has released their newest collection, called Double Dazzle to a group of eagerly awaiting fans. This collection was originally scheduled to release on April 30th, but it was released early (most likely due to major demand for the Dazzleglasses). This collection has the lip glosses and has added mascara products to the collection. Lip gloss and mascara? This collection has my name all over it.

Here is the description of the collection from the MAC website, “Summer simplified to the two major L's...Lips and Lashes! Lips take the lead with Dazzleglass: glittering, shimmering, comfortably creamy. Lashes rise to the occasion with glamorous Dazzle Lash. Double your dazzle, you'll outshine everyone!’ I can see this collection being extremely popular this spring.
Here are the products…

Dazzle Lash - A mascara that instantly creates a starburst dazzle effect. The trick lies in a new compact-sized, slightly sculpted brush applicator that singles out and pushes lashes to go bigger, bolder, longer, with a plush, glamorous curve. A rich application that delivers what you want: dazzling long lashes.
- Star Brunette - brown
- Black Dazzle - black

Dazzleglass - Lipcolour that dazzles with light and shine to bring an exciting dimensional pop to your lips. Large particle pearls reflect and refract light to mimic the brilliance of quartz and opal crystal. Provides exceptional shine with a crystalline iridescence. Non-sticky, non-tacky, lightweight and moisturizing. Glides on. Wear alone, or layer over lipstick or Lipglass for dramatic effect. Features our signature M·A·C vanilla aroma.

- Sugarrimmed - milky pink pearl with multipearl
- Goldyrocks - sheer soft yellow with pink and gold pearl
- Moth to Flame - sheer neutral beige with violet pearl
- Smile - light coral with pink and gold pearl
- Steppin’ Out - clean yellow pink with red pearl
- Utterly Posh - mid-tone orange with pink and gold pearl
- Love Alert - raspberry red with red pearl
- Date Night - soft blue purple with pearl
- Funtabulous - purple with violet pearl
- Extra Amps - sheer bright blue pink with blue and pink pearl
- Like Venus - bubblegum pink with red pearl
- Stop! Look! - sheer violet mauve with blue and pink pearl
- Money, Honey - mid-tone rosy mauve with red pearl
- Rags to Riches - plum-pink with teal and red pearl
- Baby Sparks - pale pink with violet pearl
- Bare Necessity - apricot with red and gold pearl
- Girl’s Delight - sheer mid-tone tan with gold pearl
- Get Rich Quick - warm yellow brown

As I said earlier, I predict that this collection will be a major hit and that is most likely why MAC had released it early. I am definitely looking forward to this collection, I have never been able to get my hands on Dazzleglasses, even though Sugarrimmed has been on my wanted list for months now. I also want to get Moth to Flame, Steppin’ Out, Extra Amps, Like Venus, Money Honey, Rags to Riches, and Baby Sparks. I am also interested to see if the different applicator in these glosses changes the texture and the amount that is deposited on the lips. I have never really worked with lip glosses that have brush applicators, I am very used to the traditional doe footed sponge that comes in almost every lip gloss. Oh, and of course, I want the black mascara. I am ready to majorly haul on this collection.

photo courtesy of MAC

Skyn Iceland Glacial Face Wash

Lately, I have been really into trying new face washes. No sooner do I use one for a couple of weeks than I get bored with it and open up another one. I found a bottle of Skyn Iceland’s Glacial Face Wash and decided that this would be my next experiment. At Sephora, this was sold to me as a creamy, non-irritating wash for sensitive combination skin. I didn’t know much about his line but I decided that I like the feel of the wash when she tried it on my hand and I went for it.

First some background on the company. I have only ever seen this line at Sephora so I do wonder if they are exclusive to that company. Here is the quick description of the line from the Sephora website, “You know the stress-crazed scenario: trading sleep for coffee, smoking when you shouldn't, consuming ridiculous amounts of chocolate when you should be at a yoga class. Relax, manic mavens. Meet your new best friend Skyn Iceland. It's the first skincare line specifically formulated to combat the detrimental effects of chronic "wigging-out" in your over-worked complexion. After exploring Iceland's pure, untouched environment, the geniuses at Skyn Iceland discovered beneficial new botanicals and pristine glacial waters that would become their perfect antidote for stressed skin. The result is a skincare line that's simple, yet effective; just the breath of fresh air exhausted skin needs to render it soft, clear, fresh, and glowing.” My skin has been looking stressed for the last few weeks so maybe something from this line can help.

The face wash itself has a creamy texture and creates tons of rich foam when mixed with warm water. This product is described as “a creamy, foaming cleanser that detoxifies, decongests, and purifies chronically stressed skin.” So why is it special? “Newly repackaged Glacial Face Wash refreshes and soothes chronically stressed skin with the purest Icelandic glacial waters and beneficial minerals. The water-activated luxurious cleansing foam is exceedingly mild, so it detoxifies and purifies without stripping skyn of its natural moisture. Skin's harmony, balance, and glow are restored.”

Sounds like a dream come true…

This product is not my dream come true but I didn’t hate it. My major complaint was that it stripped my skin if I used it more than once a day. It cleaned my skin but it almost cleaned it too well. I didn’t need this product in the morning, only in the evening. I was impressed by the fact that when I went to tone my face after getting out of the shower, there was no traces of makeup on the cotton ball. This has never happened to me before, normally I am still removing foundation and concealer after I am done washing my face. Once I started using this product only at night, I started to like it much better. My skin wasn’t tight and dry anymore after use and while I didn’t notice any great brightening effect, my skin looked nicer than before and it was clearer than it was before use of the wash.

Its not my dream wash but it is nice product and might better in the summertime when my skin is oilier. I don’t know how well this would work during the winter when my skin gets really dry.
photo courtesy of Sephora

Jonathan Silky Dirt

I am using a product right now that I never really knew quite why it existed. I am referring to Jonathan’s Silky Dirt. This product was recommended to me when I was looking for a conditioner, not a styling product. I had set out to find a new hydrating conditioner and after helping me to find one, the sales associate made me a small sample of this product, telling me how wonderful it was to smooth hair. I was rather skeptical because I didn’t know much about that product at the time and hadn’t heard any real reviews on it.

I was familiar with the original Dirt product and how well it worked to define shorter hairstyles. Silky Dirt has a thinner, softer texture and can be used in multiple ways to create different looks. It falls under the category of being a “shine and define” crème. Here is the description from Jonathan product, “A unique grooming crème that texturizes, defines and shines with a smooth, lasting finish. Nourishing ingredients shield hair from damage and color fading. This silky texturizing crème packed with Sunflower Phytoceramides restructures and protects hair cuticles while a gentle smoothing shine blend adds shine and texture. Cucumber/Rose Essential Water™ nourishes all types of hair. Shea and Wild Mango butters condition and soften, while a blend of Sweet Almond & Soy Proteins improves manageability. Pomegranate Extract mixed with Botanical UV filters nourish, revitalize, and protect hair and prevent color fading.” Jonathan himself states that he uses this product on long hair to create shine and definition.

This product works best for me when I use it on damp hair before blow drying. The product is very concentrated so I only need a small dab and then I emulsify it in my hands to liquefy it. This product is very easy to overdo, so a little dab really is all that you need. Any more than that and you will resemble an oil slick. Trust me, I found out the hard way!

However, when used correctly, the results are nothing short of fantastic. My hair is sleek, soft, and super shiny. I have very think, coarse hair so I can take a heavier product on it. This might be too much for someone with finer hair even when a very small amount is used. This product smells like sweet almond oil and cake so it is either a love it or hate type of scent. Many people (like myself) fall in love with it, but the complete opposite effect ca also occur. And this product is one of the strongest scented styling products that I have ever used, I can smell it on my hair all day long.

Wherever she is now, I owe that sales associate a Grey Goose martini…

photo courtesy of Jonathan Product

NARS Summer 2009 Collection

We are now in the heart of spring, so of course it is time to begin talking about the new summer makeup collections. To me, this season is never as exciting as the springtime because I feel like every company does the same variation on bronzy makeup and dewy skin. And this really is just not my favorite season overall for beauty. To start us off, we are going to look at the newest collection from NARS, a perennial favorite makeup line of mine.

Here is the description of the collection from the NARS website, “Glowing, sun kissed skin, shimmering peachy hued lips, and high drama eyes in deep tones of metallic flecked topaz or sparkling azure. Whatever your vision of the perfect summer, this season’s vivid yet versatile color palette is the perfect complement.”

Single Eye Shadow - Longwearing, crease resistant color in sheer wearable formulas. All NARS eye shadows can be applied sheer or layered for a more dramatic effect. These richly pigmented powders blend effortlessly and can also be used wet for precisely lining the eyes
- Tropic - matte teal with silver particles

Duo Eye Shadow - The same longwearing crease resistant formula as NARS single Eye shadow, in a series of uniquely paired color combinations. Worn together or alone, all duo eye shadows can be applied sheer or built up for a more dramatic effect. All powder eye shadows can be used wet or dry.
- Scorching Sun - glazed apricot/orange with delicate sheen

Bronzing Powder - Diffused powder with golden shimmer to create an all-over warmth and contour for the entire face. Bronzing Powder creates a natural looking glow which enhances or creates the look of tanned skin.
- Irresistiblement - golden terracotta

Lipstick - A wide range of captivating shades designed to provide the look and style the color dictates. Lipstick available in three formulas:

Satin - moist, longwearing lipstick containing micro-bubble spheres to continually release lip conditioners which yield creamy, silky color that wears for hours.

Semi-Matte - A highly pigmented matte, non-drying formula that provides a longwearing, full-bodied, velvety finish.

Sheer - long lasting color pigments have been suspended in this translucent formula to provide a sheer, natural tint.

- Falaba - shimmering bronzy rose
- Outsider - shimmering burnished coral

Lip Gloss - Serious shine and sexy color in sheer, creamy and semi-sheer formulas. Extremely wearable and versatile shades may be worn alone or over other lip products for heightened drama
- Belize - pink mauve with flecks of gold

Lipliner Pencil - Longwearing color in a creamy formula that helps define, correct and shape the lips while preventing lip color from bleeding and feathering. Available in color-coordinated shades to correspond with lipstick hues.
- Tonga - pink amber

Nail Polish - An exclusive formula with technology designed to improve flexibility, durability, wear and gloss properties. This longwearing formula provides a tough, durable chip-resistant finish and also has added UV protection to prevent polish discoloration.
- Adelita - shimmering pearlescent pink

I think that the Tropic eye shadow shade is one of the most beautiful colors that I have ever seen, it really makes me wish that I had brown eyes just so that I could wear this one. Alas though, this color and I are not meant to be so I will have to admire it from afar. Otherwise, I obviously want the new lip gloss shade and I like the nail polish shade too. I’m not really sure why they introduced a lip liner with a summer collection. Even though I never wear liner now, I would think that I would wear it under a more dramatic shade in the fall or winter. I would like to see the Scorching Sun duo and see how the colors translate out in real life, this one could either be amazing or horrid. Overall, not the best for myself but this collection would be amazing on a girl with tanned skin and brown eyes.

photo courtesy of NARS

Guerlain Rouge G de Guerlain Collection

Being that lipstick sales usually increase with the downfall of the economy and the recession, Guerlain brilliantly introduced its new lipstick only collection this spring. The collection is called Rogue G by Guerlain and combines a fantastic new formula with great colors and the most James Bond inspired packaging that I have seen in ages. Honestly, this packaging is so amazing that it would be worth the purchase just to be able to whip out the tube in front of friends. Hmmmm…this is sounding very Christian Dior. I normally do not look at prices or consider them all that much when buying beauty product but the $45 price tag on these lipsticks does deserve a mention. Is the packaging that amazing that it is worth that price to purchase, especially when the country is not soaring economically?

Let’s find out…First we need a description of the product itself. I can only find this product on Saks and Bergdorf websites right now, so I think that it was an exclusive release to those companies. Guerlain called on one of the most talented jewelers from the Place Vendôme in Paris, Lorenz Bäumer, to create an object of mystery and seduction: Rouge G de Guerlain. At the first click, the case reveals a stunning mirror, a promise of your own personal luxury... and then an exceptional lipstick nestled within the case.An exceptional accessory, Rouge G de Guerlain surpasses mere Beauty with a breathtaking formula. A precious ruby powder interacts with daylight to reveal spectacular radiance unachieved to date. At the first contact, lips are immediately defined, smoothed, plumped and hydrated. Available in 25 shades.”

This collection is not on the Guerlain site and I can’t find anything more than a list of colors on any of the other sites. I will provide the list but I can't find any descriptions of the colors which is rather irritating.

- Gabrielle 60
- Gaela 61
- Gala 21
- Galia 03
- Gardenia 02
- Gemma 64
- Georgia 62
- Gina 20
- Gipsy 41
- Giulette 63
- Gracieuse 05
- Greta 22
- Guilana 42
- Gaby 07
- Gaia 10
- Galante 09
- Garance 06
- Geisha 23
- Gentiane 04
- Gil 40
- Ginger 43
- Gisele 08
- Garcia 66
- Grenade 65
- Guerlinade 01

Of these shades, I really can’t even tell what ones that I would want to purchase because there are no descriptions and the pictures might look nothing like the colors in real life. There are a few colors that look promising though. Gabrielle 60 is pretty pale pink that I think that I would really like. The rest of the colors are looking like they run more toward the purple and lavender side, a trend that I have not really jumped on the bandwagon of this spring. Love the case but I need to actually see the colors before I can decide if I would want to get any of these colors.

photo courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

DKNY Be Delicious Fresh Blossom

The entire spring of my junior year of college, I wore DKNY’s Be Delicious fragrance almost religiously. Out of my entire perfume collection at the time, I found myself reaching for it almost every single day, which is quite a feat in a collection the size of mine. Not surprisingly, I went through the bottle much quicker than I have any others in the past. Since then I have always intended to get myself another bottle and I discovered that I like the Red Delicious fragrance almost as much as the original (the Night version not so much), but somehow I have just never gotten around to it. Partly, this is due to the fact that I have so much perfume already and I have been trying in vain to use some of it down before I end up with a collection of alcohol in pretty jars instead of perfume.

The original Be Delicious is light and fresh and apple scented without being overwhelming. Here is the description of the fragrance from Sephora, “A modern feast for the senses. Served in a sleek metal and glass apple bottle, this juicy fragrance combines the scent of apple with a sophisticated blend of exotic flowers and sensual woods. Like the city that inspired it, Be Delicious celebrates individuality with refreshing spirit.” And here are the notes of the fragrance, “American Apple, Cucumber, Grapefruit, Candid Magnolia, Tuberose, White Muguet, Rose, Violet, Sandalwood, Tender Skin Accord, Blonde Woods, White Amber.” This scent is the perfect blend of fruits and light floral and the bottle is fantastic. The ironic part is that I never would have tried anything with this many fruit notes in it had I not been given a sample of this when buying some other fragrance. I learned then that sometimes it pays off to break of out of my comfort zone.

Red Delicious is slightly less on the fresh side and more on the heavier and full bodied side of this kind of fragrance. It has less of crispness and seems to be richer in tone. Here is the description of the scent from the Sephora site, “DKNY introduces a second bite of temptation with a new, limited-edition scent. Aptly named DKNY Red Delicious, this sexy fragrance is a bit more daring, a bit more tantalizing - completely irresistible. A glittering champagne accord shimmers with exotic lychee, while red raspberry flirtatiously mingles with crisp apple. The heart intensifies with rich, velvety rose combined with lush notes of drenched violet petals, evolving to a rich, sensual blend of vanilla bean crushed with warm patchouli and a luminous amber note. Capping off the sultry experience, a sensual skin accord mixes with raspberry for a soft kiss of sweetness.” And here are the notes, “Champagne Accord, Lychee, Red Raspberry, Apple, Rose, Vanilla Bean, Patchouli, Amber, Sensual Skin Accord, Raspberry.” This one is listed as a “floral oriental” instead of a citrus and that is evident with the vanilla bean, patchouli, and amber notes that make up the base of the fragrance.

But to my excitement, DKNY has introduced a new version of this fragrance this spring. It is called DKNY Be Delicious Fresh Blossom and it falls more on the floral side of the fragrance spectrum without losing the crispness of the original. The bottle is the same shape but it is pale pink instead of bright green or red. I think that this was the most exciting fragrance launch for me so far this spring. Sephora has been sold out of this fragrance ever since I first saw it and I am really excited that the website has restocked. Hers is the description from the website, “DKNY Be Delicious Fresh Blossom is a radiant new fragrance that marries freshness, vibrancy, and femininity. A blend of sparkling grapefruit, cassis, and sunkissed apricot meets a blooming floral heart of sheer muguet and petally rose wrapped in luminous jasmine. A base of juicy apple, mingled with lingering blond woods and smooth skin accord, completes the irresistibly sensual experience of the essence.” And the notes are right here, “Grapefruit, Cassis, Apricot, Muguet, Rose, Jasmine, Apple, Blond Woods, Smooth Skin Accord.” This version is the heaviest on the rose and that is what makes it my favorite of the three.

I really must go and get the new fragrance as soon as I can. But thinking it over, the new fragrance makes me want the original and the original makes me want the Red version. Dear DKNY…you have roped me in like you will never know with this fragrance line…Love, Erin.
photo courtesy of Sephora

Laura Mercier Gilded Garden Collection

Since spring makeup shopping is my favorite time of the year, I was really excited to see that Laura Mercier created a second spring collection. I was in love with the first one, First Blush and I really love that they created a second one to extend spring just a little bit longer before we hit the dewy, bronzy makeup of the summertime. It is now getting warm enough to sport the pinks and the pretty dresses that I wait for all year round.

This collection is called Gilded Garden and here is the description from Laura Mercier, “Gilded Garden, the bold, new floral colour collection is Laura Mercier's latest creation. The Gilded Garden Mosaic Shimmer Bloc softly illuminates cheeks with the perfect flush of rosy color, while a bouquet of four shimmery eye colours add a hint of glamour with gold accents. Lip Stains in Hibiscus and English Rose and Lip Colour - Stickgloss in Azalea and Tiger Lily add a pop of colour to the lips. The Limited Edition collection will have you looking fresh, floral, and beautifully-polished throughout Spring.”

Here is the collection…

Luster Eye Color - Laura Mercier Luster Eye Colour is a luxuriously smooth eye shadow that imparts pure dynamic iridescences with a sophisticated frost finish providing amazing adherence for a freshly applied look throughout the day.
- Marigold - pale gold

Sateen Eye Color - Laura Mercier Sateen Eye Colour is a lightweight eye shadow with a creamy powder texture that provides an immediate release of intense luminous colour with superior blending for a long-wearing, crease-resistant application.
- Lilac - pale lavender
- Orchid - bright pink
- Pink Tulip - pale pink

Finishing Eye Brush - Laura Mercier Finishing Eye Brush, applying the same benefits of the Finishing Brush to the eyes, delivers colour to provide smooth, even coverage.

Finishing Brush - Laura Mercier Finishing Brush is comprised of both natural & synthetic hairs to pick up & buff colour onto the skin for buildable, even colour application.

Lip Color - Stick Gloss - Laura Mercier Lip Colour - Stickgloss is a lip balm, lip colour and lip glace in one sheer & sophisticated formula to add dimension and fullness while hydrating your lips.
- Azalea- bright pink
- Tiger Lily - pale pink

Lip Stain - Laura Mercier Lip Stain provides the visual effect of a stain with the comfort and sheen of a lip gloss. The long-term colour with a satin, balmy finish leaves the look of effortless polish and understated sophistication
- English Rose - true rose pink
- Hibiscus - bright pink

Gilded Garden Mosaic Shimmer Bloc - Laura introduces her first Limited Edition Gilded Garden Mosaic Shimmer Bloc - arriving in a fresh, floral design it adds a youthful, natural glow to the face for an effortlessly luminous look to carry you through Spring. One shade is a pale white, one is a bright pink, one is a pale pink, and one is lilac tone.

This collection is another nod to favorite pink colors to use in the springtime, I really want everything from the collection. I will definitely be picking up the whole collection before we get to the hazy days of summer!

photo courtesy of Laura Mercier

MAC Colour Ready

The newest MAC collection called Colour Ready launches in stores today. Coming off of Sugar Sweet, this collection has some big shoes to fill so let’s see how it measures up. Here is the description from MAC, “Get increased mileage from makeup! A start-to-finish collection that revs up Prep + Prime: three new products plus the essential colour palette. Everything you need to be picture perfect.”

Here is the collection…

Eye Shadow - Highly-pigmented powder. Applies evenly, blends well.
- Bitter - vivid green with shimmer
- White Frost - vivid white with icy shimmer

Eye Brows - Self-propelling, self-sharpening, brow defining. Confidently adds what you need: shape, colour, density in one streamlined tool. Like a pen, creates its own just-right point. Provides definition, shape, deepens/fills in colour. Creates striking arches. Easy to tote around. No sharpener needed.
- Stud - deep rich blackened brown

Penultimate Eye Liner - A liquid pen-style liner that provides the ultimate precise, bold line in a rich, deep carbon black shade. Goes on fluidly, in one steady stroke, to style any fashion of eye line.
- Rapidblack - true black

Lipstick - Colour plus texture for the lips. Stands out on the runway. Simmers on the street!
- Show Orchid - vivid hot pink
- Impassioned - amped-up fuchsia

Prep + Prime Transparent Finishing Powder - A silky finishing powder that provides an invisible way to set makeup. Reduces shine while optically minimizing the look of pores, lines, imperfections. Available in one universal colour that suits all shades. Wear over makeup or on bare, moisturized skin.

Prep + Prime Skin Refined Zone - A light, oil-free emulsion that helps cloak visible pores while controlling oil and shine. Applies "wet" for a gentle micro-exfoliation: dries instantly to create an invisible, long-lasting natural matte finish. Ideal for the T-zone.

Prep + Prime Line Filler - A primer used post-foundation, pre-makeup to camouflage, soften and relax expression lines and wrinkles. Applies as a dense cream: dries to a transparent, smooth, natural matte finish. With ongoing use, clinically proven to help rejuvenate your look.

129 SH Powder/Blush Brush - The 129 Blush/Brush with a shorter handle. Includes a travel pouch to keep your brush clean. This brush is particularly good for blush application. The fibres are soft and form a full, rounded shape. M·A·C professional brushes are hand-sculpted and assembled using the finest quality materials. They feature birch, linden and ramin wood handles, nickel-plated brass ferrules.

I give up…what is the point of this collection other than to add on to the Prep + Prime products. Don’t get me wrong, I really want to try the Prep + Prime products but the colors in this collection really seem to have to reason to be. Also, I would like to get my hands on the Penultimate but otherwise, this collection does not hold a candle to the colors in Sugar Sweet.

photo courtesy of MAC

Most Wanted April 2009

It’s April and spring has officially sprung! Here is my most wanted list for this month…

- Urban Decay Pocket Rocket Lip Gloss in David
- Korres Natural Products Cherry Full Lip Gloss
- Lipstick Queen Big-Bang Theory Illusion Gloss in Energy
- Lancôme Genifique Youth Activating Concentrate
- Aveda Enbrightenment Face Cleanser
- Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Revealing Mask
- Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment
- Flora by Gucci
- Bare Escentuals Buxom Lash
- MAC Cremesheen Lip Glass in Fashion Scoop

It looks like this month is all about lip gloss and skincare. I am really in need of some new skincare products that will help to brighten my skin. With all the stress that I have stored up from school, work, issues with my car, the male gender, and the low grad school acceptance rates, my skin is now officially gray, blotchy, and breaking out for the first time in ages. I think I will be needing so high powered help with this one.