Laura Mercier Fall 2009 - Scarlet Passion Collection

Scarlet Passion is the newest collection from Laura Mercier that is debuting in stores this fall. I am in love with the name of this collection and if the products are true to the name, I can see this going straight to the top of my shopping list. This fall has been amazing so far since I recently found out my love of red lipstick and now want to collect as many shades of it as possible.


Here is the description of the collection from Laura Mercier, "Inspired by past imperial dynasties and the lavish arts from China, Russia, and Mongolia, Laura Mercier introduces her Scarlet Passion Collection. Lips are the focus with Lip Velvet and Satin Lip Colour in reds of all shades: raspberry, scarlet, crimson, and aubergine. Laura's Cheek Colour Duo softly illuminates cheeks with a whisper light of nude pink. Eye Colours in shimmering shades of gold and bronze add a wash of colour to the lids, while a sleek stroke of inky black Eye Liner gives eyes a dramatic finish. This regal, polished, and sophisticated collection is perfect for Fall".

Here is the collection...

Luster Eye Colour - 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. Long-wearing and creases resistant. Microionized pigments deliver deep colour in the release of one stroke. Offers true colour and brillance. Ultra-refined for a soft, luxurious feel.
- Gilded Gold - golden peach shimmer
- Bronze Copper - warm bronze shimmer

Fine Point Eye Liner Brush - Laura Mercier Fine Point Eye Liner Brush is a narrow exact point brush made of high quality synthetic fiber to be used in conjunction with the Brillant Eye Liner. Unique point lets you determine the width of the line. Increase pressure to widen the definition.

Flat Eye Liner Brush - Long - Laura Mercier Flat Eye Liner Brush contains synthetic, firm bristles narrowing to a thin, flat line to ensure the most exact placement of Eye Liner. Laura created the techinique of lining the eyes by dotting eye colour across the lash line with this synthetic brush; brush upward to soften the line. High quality synthetic fiber. Designed to precisely line eyes with Eye Liner.

Eye Liner - Laura Mercier Eye Liner is an easy-to-use, mistake-proof eye liner that delivers long-lasting pure colour. Long-wearing, smudge-resistant and colour-true. Eye Liner adds brightness and life to the eye with its light-reflective pigments. Easy-to-use product that can line eyes from the most subtle, natural definition to the most graphic, sexy looks. Use with the Flat Eye Liner Brush to prefect Laura's "tight line" technique. Apply as a natural, thin line to a thicker, more dramatic look. Used wet, the velvet matte finish and buildable pigment allows you to create infinite looks.
- Black Ebony - deep black
- Mahogany Brown - deep brown

Satin Lip Colour - Laura Mercier Satin Lip Colour is the first semi-matte lipstick to combine long-wear and comfort in a non-drying formula. Lips go from satiny to matte within minutes with Softisan, a lightweight "elastic" seal that perfectly adheres to lips to set and lock in highly pigmented colour and moisturize without feathering. Wild Mango Butter intensely hydrates lips. Volulips and Laura Mercier's exclusive Lip Colour Complex plump, soothe, and condition lips. One swipe leaves lips feeling incredibly soft eith medium to full coverage in a satiny finish.
- Cherrywood - rich warm scarlet
- Currant - deep rosy plum
- Duchess Rose - warm rosy pink
- Sangria - deep blue red

Lip Velvet - Laura Mercier Lip Velvet is a deeply voluptuous formula that cushions lips in lush, lasting moisture and a layer of intense, long-wearing colour. Contains unique blend of moisturizing, anti-aging, anti-oxidant, and plumping ingredients that boosts the performance of the colour in the Laura Mercier Lip Complex. Lips are soothed in this highly pigmented formula. Rich, creamy texture glides on easily. Results in a demi-matte finish and sensual glow.
- Cassis - deep mulberry
- Pink Royale - cool raspberry pink
- Scarlet Passion - rich warm scarlet

Lip Pencil - Laura Mercier Lip Pencil is a perfectly textured lip pencil designed to outline, define, and enchance the natural shape of the lip. Firm enough to draw a precise thin line, yet soft enough to blend. Creamy formula glides on smoothly and comfortably. Prolongs wear of all lip colours by applying lip pencil first - helps prevent lip colour from bleeding, feathering, or collecting in the corner.
- Redwood - medium brown red

Cheek Colour Duo - Laura Mercier Limited Edition Cheek Colour Duo is the perfect pair of whisper-light pink and nude cheek colours in one compact to softly accent the contours of the face. Oil-free with light-as-air texture. Natural, buildable, and never cakey formula. Infused with vitamins and natural botanicals to condition and nourish the skin. Long-wearing, remains colour-true all day. Vitamins C & E and Coffee Fruit provide anti-oxidant protection. Chamomile soothes, and aloe leaves skin feeling silky and maintains moisture balance. Light-diffusing qualities allow for a mistake-proof and flawless application.
- Whisper - soft petal pink with pink pearl/delicate warm nude with gold pearl

Wow...I am being totally serious when I say that I want everything in this collection except for the lip liner. All the red lip shades get me really excited and hopefully they would work on my pink toned skin. I am a bit nervous in that they are described as being a warmer hue but I will be test driving shortly in order to determine whether or not I will be adding them to my ever-growing collection of red lip shades. I love both of the new eye shadow shades but I bet that I already own shades that are very similar so unless they are very special, I might pass on them. I want both new eye liner shades and the brushes to try and perfect Laura's noted technique.

Red and I are friends this fall...



photo courtesy of Laura Mercier

Oscar Blandi Shampoo d'Alternanza

I came across this shampoo several years ago when I went to Sephora in search of a good clarifying shampoo. I had been using the Back to Basics formula for the past few months and it was a nice everyday shampoo but failed miserably at clarifying and getting all of the deep conditioner and product residue out of my hair. Needless to say, I needed something much stronger and both the Sephora associates and the Makeup Alley Reviews said that this product would fit the bill. So I decided to take the plunge. And I am very glad that I did.

Here is the description of the product from the Sephora website, "Over time, hair becomes accustomed to products that are used on a regular basis, resulting in build-up. Shampoo d'Alternanza serves as an alternate shampoo for removing hair build-up deposited by cleansers, conditioners, styling aids, or other external conditions such as chlorine or salt water. The unique formula also provides ample nourishment, naturally hydrates hair, and adds new dimension to the hair shaft. Derived from plant extracts, vitamins, and wheat proteins. Shampoo d'Alternanza not only rids the hair of residual build-up, but does so without stripping hair of its vital nutrients".

First thing, Sephora should have known better than to write this misleading description. Hair is dead, it cannot become "used to" any product. Product builds up on the hair shaft and that is that. Otherwise, I do think that this is a great shampoo. I use it once every two weeks and so far, the bottle has lasted me for ages. It doesn'y overdry my hair but it still manages to clean everything excess out of my hair.

I once had someone say something to me about using a deep cleansing shampoo on my dry hair. This is why I do it, when product builds ups then my products can't penetrate correctly. We all know that. However, products that are designed to hydrate or defrizz hair tend to build up much faster than those that are not so clarifying shampoo is even more vital for users of these types of products. Also, when the conditioners can't pentrate correctly, they don't hydrate well enough so hair is actually drier. So yes, clarifying shampoos are also recommended for those with dry hair. You will want to follow it up with a deep conditioner to reap the highest amount of benefits.

photo courtesy of Sephora

MAC Flirt With Fall

MAC's Flirt With Fall is new line that contains only full sets of fake eyelashes. I don't really do very well with the fake eyelashes, so I already know that this is collection that I will be passing on. But we will look at it anyway. Here is the description of the collection from MAC, "We're dramatically lashing out with the help of a pre-eminent authority on the subject: Academy Award nominated Hollywood makeup artist, Christina Smith, who's developed this innovative collection of glamorous Silver Screen lash looks just for MAC".

Here are the offerings...

43 Lash - Wispy bundles and natural style length provide an everyday flirty fringe.

44 Lash - A unique combination of separate bundles at inner corner and dramatic winged outer corner combine for a full and fabulous effect.

45 Lash - Half-lash featuring bundles of long lashes. Highlights the outer corner of the eye to create a look that's wispy and dramatic.

46 Lash - Full with short lashes. Adds instant definition and depth to the lashline.

47 Lash - Full lash featuring full extra-long side swept hairs. With its fullness at the base, this lash provides a unique edgy look.

48 Lash - Longer wispy bundles with an even edge create a flirty fringe the verges on the dramatic.

There are some nice lashes in this collection but really nothing is for me so I think I will be passing on the whole thing. This collection would be great so something who is good with applying fakes though.

photo courtesy of MAC

MAC Nail Trend F/W '09

MAC has teamed up with famed nail artist Jin Soon to create an completely nail polish based line for this fall. I have only purchased one MAC polish ever (Love & Friendship from A Rose Romance) and so I have had very little experience with this line. I liked the polish and the wear that I got from it but I just never really think to include MAC in the lines of polish that I buy frequently. And honestly, unless MAC has a nail polish right out in front of my face at the counter, I usually tend to get distracted by the million other items that they offer.

But let's see if this collection can change that. Here is the description of the collection from MAC, "More than a colour statement, an of-the-moment appraoch that dazzles with innovation and style. How to do it? Enter Jin Soon, much-sought-after nail guru who has worked the shows, collaborating with us to create six nail colours exclusively for MAC".

Here are the new shades...

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!

- Cool Reserve - dirty grey lavender (Cream)

- Beyond Jealous - blackened blue green (Cream)

- For Fun - rich clean purple (Cream)

- Dance All Night - brick red (Cream)

- Dry Martini - khaki olive green (Cream)

- Rich, Dark, Delicious - rich blackened brown (Cream)

Underlacquer - A revoluntionary colour-free high gloss base coat that helps bond MAC lacquer to the nail. Special protective formula works to guard against chipping and peeling while simultaneously protecting the nail. Loaded with conditioners to moisturize, strengthen, and rejuvenate the natural nail.

Overlacquer - A fast drying high gloss top coat that amplifies MAC Lacquer's high gloss finish while providing a protective coating against everyday wear and tear. Formulated with UV protection, helps reduce sun-related fading and discolouration. Colourless. Instantly guards your nail and manicure!

I would like to get both the Underlacquer and the Overlacquer, I know that I would get lots of use out of both products. From the nail polish shades, I like Cool Reserve, For Fun, and Dance All Night. Maybe I will be adding a couple more polishes to my collection now...

photo courtesy of Nordstrom

Essie Fall 2009 Collection

So far in the past month, we have been looking at all types of new makeup for fall but we haven't yet gotten to any of the new nail polish trends and shades. So far, it is looking like both matte finishes and deeper shades will be very popular. The first collection that I looked at was that of Essie. This collection contains six shades that are named after clothing items that are normally worn in the cooler weather months. Essie offers the shades individually and in a kit for those who love all the shades.

Here are the colors...

Angora Cardi - With this deep, dusty rose on your fingertips and toes, the grey days of fall won't have anything on your cheeky disposition.

Bright Tights - To keep the optimism alive this season, try adding this electric orange burst to your wardrobe. The pop of color is vibrant and exciting.

Chinchilly - With the runways saturated in every classical neutral shade this season, try this chic and versatile sleek granite grey to stand out in the crowd.

Midnight Cami - Elegance and sophistication are everywhere. Try this shimmering twilight blue to express your sultry side.

Mink Muffs - Classy and refined, this smoky plush taupe is just as soft, silky and chic as your favorite pair of mink muffs.

Pink Parka - This piping pink hue is the season's must-have amp of color - fashion never shined so bright.

Out of this collection, I only like Chinchilly and Midnight Cami. Of course, I will get my hopes up for Midnight Cami to be a Ciel de Nuit dupe and will end up horribly disappointed. But no matter, I still like the shade and Chinchilly so they are worthy of purchase. I am not really a fan of wearing brighter shades in fall and since I never really used the bright shades even in the summer, these have no appeal for me. The other two I just don't like at all so the same applies. So I guess I would only be getting two shades out of this collection.

photo courtesy of Essie

Kenzo KenzoAmour Florale

KenzoAmour Florale is a new fragrance that has just been released for the Fall season. Normally, new fragrances for fall are deeper and heavier and have a tendency to spiceness and stronger florals. However, once every few seasons, a fragrance comes out that breaks the mold and feels to many as though it has been released in the wrong season. In this case, we are talking about KenzoAmour Florale, a fragrance is light, clean, and floral.

Here is the description of the fragrance from the Sephora website, "Begin a journey of love with Kenzo KenzoAmour Florale. In Asia, the light is written in flowers that whisper their solar freshness onto your skin. This scent's gently dazzling impression begins with a luminous, airy top. The essence reveals its luminous, floral heart and comes to completion with a clear, senstive base. The hours pass by gracefully, given away by changing light, enticing you to fall in love. Inspired by the sensuality of the female body and the sense of taking off, of being in flight, the bottle reveals itself with renewed transparency. Suffused in light, it is softly brushed by a poetic white mist".

The notes of the fragrances are: neroli, grapefruit-blackcurrant, cardamom, frangipani blossom, rosebud, gardenia, white musk, cedar wood.

This actually sounds like a fragrance that I would not only purchase, but somehow end up reaching for every single day. This sounds like it will be light and fresh with just the littlest bit of floral, as to not offend even the most sensitive of noses. The bottle is a work of art itself and would look fantastic setting out on a bureau or nightstand.

KenzoAmour Florale...breaking the fall fragrance mold.

photo courtesy of Sephora

MAC Make-Up Art Cosmetics - Richard Phillips

The third of the new collections from MAC comes from the painter Richard Phillips. This artist is known for making provacative, seven foot tall paintings of men and women from photographs. His paintings are full of color and imagery and he has made a painting of Jimmy Choo shoes and has contributed to the TV show Gossip Girl. His collection is my favorite of the three becuase it contains more neutrals than the others and is generally more wearable for myself.

Here is the description of the collection from MAC, "Racy, hyper-glam images revved-up in a modern take on vintage magazine pages, transformed into a supervixen collection of colour for eyes, lips, and cheeks. Paint it bigger-than-life with style and sensuality".

Here is his collection...

Eye Shadow x 4: Photo Realism - A Limited Edition palette of four eye shadows in various complementary finishes as seen by artist Richard Phillips. Reflects the artistic mood of the Make-Up Art Cosmetics colour collection.

- Photo Realism - gold shimmer with gold pearl

- Fresh Approach - cool mint green

- Image Maker - dirty grey green

- Grey Range - deep blue green

Eye Shadow x 4: In The Gallery - A Limited Edition palette of four eye shadows in various complementary finishes as seen by artist Richard Phillips. Reflects the artistic mood of the Make-Up Art Cosmetics colour collection.

- Lightfall - pale pink

- Look at the Eyes - light violet

- In the Gallery - dirty blue pink

- Private Viewing - deep brown plum

Eye Shadow x 4: Notoriety - A Limited Edition palette of four eye shadows in various complementary finishes as seen by artist Richard Phillips. Reflects the artistic mood of the Make-Up Art Cosmetics colour collection.

- Skintone 1 - light white pink

- Skintone 2 - dirty gold

- Notoriety - dirty brown with gold pearl

- Rich and Earthy - rich coral bronze

Plush Lash - A mascara formulated to instantly plump up lashes for extreme voluptuous effect. Works fast. Builds volume smoothly and evenly from root to tip. Delivers a silky, flexible, full fan of lashes. Fluid formula lightly coats lashes one layer at a time without smearing, smudging, or clumping. Goes on via an innovative, specially patented wand with a v-shaped groove that prunes the bristles on one side while leaving the otehr side full and lush. The short bristles coax the lashes upward to an extraordinarily sophisticated yet flirtatious curl, while the other side separates and combs the lashes root-to-top creating a long, well-defined glamour lash. Volumizing, lengthening, curling, lifting. This mascara features everything you want, with all the top mascara no's: no clumping, spiking, smudging, or flaking.

- Plushblack - black

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

- Front Lit - light white yellow (Frost)

- High Strung - deep pink silver (Frost)

- Lovin It - cool neutral with yellow undertone (Lustre)

- Hold the Pose - brown plum with gold pearl (Lustre)

- Full Body - deep red plum (Lustre)

Tinted Lipglass - A unique lip gloss available in a wide variety of colours that can 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 colour. 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.

- New Spirit - light yellow coral (Frost)

- Personal Taste - dirty rose with pink and gold pearl (Frost)

- Young Thing - yellow neutral with gold pearl (Frost)

- On Display - purple with gold pearl (Frost)

Powder Blush - Colour for the cheeks and face. Various formulas. Different looks.

- The Perfect Cheek - dirty pale pink (Matte)

- Notable - dirty brick brown red (Satin)

This is by far my favorite of the three collections, I am lemming a bunch of products from this collection and am planning a MAC trip within the week. For starters, I am in love with the Eye Shadow quads especailly In the Gallery and Notoriety. I can see myself getting tons of use from both palettes. I am curious about the High Strung shade of Lipstick, I can see myself either really loving it or really hating it. The Personal Taste Lipglass is high up on my list of things to buy, this one sounds completely amazing. And to finish out the list, I want to get the Powder Blush in The Perfect Cheek. So happy with this collection!

photo courtesy of Nordstrom

MAC Make-Up Art Cosmetics - Maira Kalman

The next series of products is from Maira Kalman, a noted illustrator. Her accomplishments include illustrating a series of children's book and writing a blog for The New York Times that grew in popularity until eventually expanding into a book in 2007. Her collection for MAC is full of bright, fun colors for the eyes only.

Here is the description of her collection from the MAC website, "Cheeky, witty, always amusing, Maira's style is cute and colorful, wonderfully child-like...and sophisticated all at once. Technakohl Eyeliners and magical Eye Shadows full of cock-eyed optimism, with just the tiniest smudge of city-girl-snobbism. Simply sublime!"

Here's the collection...

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

- Crest the Wave - rich yellow (Frost)

- Haunting - light turquoise blue (Satin)

- Off the Page - dirty mustard orange (Frost)

- Maira's Mood - yellow pink (Satin)

- Purple Shower - dirty blue pink (Satin)

- Violet Trance - deep blue purple (Matte)

Technakohl Liner - A mechanical pencil-style liner. In formula, soft and creamy, with an intense, rich, colour deposit. Blends on application: dries quickly to a long-wear, non-smudege finish. Versatile. An easy way to line the top and lower lash of the eye. When applied at a 90 degree angle, provides a thin, precise line. For thicker application, apply at a flat angle.

- Colour Matters - bright lime

- Obviously Orange - dirty coral

- Artistic License - bright turquoise blue

- Full of Fushcia - deep blue magenta

- Graphblack - rich graphic black

I think that this is another collection that is really not my speed. First of all, this is a collection for fall but all the shades seem very springy and bright. They are quite unique in the offerings that have come out so far this fall but I don't see them ase being very wearable in the months ahead. Also, they will not work with my blue eyes. Maybe if I had brown or hazel eyes, I might be more apt to get into these shades. The only item that I would get from this collection would be the Technakohl Liner in Graphic Black.

photo courtesy of Nordstrom

MAC Make-Up Art Cosmetics - Marilyn Minter

For their newest collection for fall, MAC has teamed up with three artists and allowed them to express themselves through a new canvas - that of makeup. Three artists who each use different mediums were chosen and the results of each collection are both unique and mind-blowing. The first collection that we are going to look at is the one designed by Marilyn Minter. Marilyn Minter is a photographer and her collection seems to be heavy on the glitter and bright pigments. Minter's works have often included both pornographic images yet have remained on the cutting edge of beauty and glamour.

Here is the description of her collection from MAC, "Erotic imagery that zooms in a on dappled, glittered eye, or a silverized stilletto splashing in the mud from this Whitney Biennial Artist. Push The Edge Pigment and Fushcia Glitter have the power the make anyone feel like the WILL be seen - and desired".

And her collection...

Glitter - MAC Glitter can be appiled directly to the skin or combined with products to create high-level glitter and sparkle effects on all areas of the face, skin, and hair.

- Gold - sparkling chunky gold

- Reflects Copper - sparkling saffron

- Reflects Rust - sparkling warm red

- Fushcia - sparkling fushcia

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

- Brash & Bold - bright magenta

- Push the Edge - deep bright purple with pearl

- Cocomotion - dirty gold with an olive undertone with gold sparkle

- Heritage Rouge - dirty brown plum

Clear Gloss - A colour-free gel formulated for full-on shine, MAC Gloss adds polish, shine, and highlights to bare or made-up skin. May be used on the face or any part of the body where shine is desired.

This collection might be a bit on the out there side for my tastes. I think that I could never pull off the Glitter shades or any of the Pigments except for Cocomotion or Heritage Rouge. Really they are the only two products that I would pick up from this collection. Amazing collection but not for me. I do have a friend that would love this though...

photo courtesy of Nordstrom

Urban Decay Fall 2009 - Part 3

And so we are now at the last category of new products from Urban Decay. This one is another that I am excited about since I love their lipstick and am curious to learn about any other lip products that they are currently selling.

Lip Primer Potion - Prepare your lips for the day ahead. Our invisible primer lays a silky foundation for your favorite lipstick or gloss. Color is truer, applies smoother, lasts longer, and will not feather or fade. The easy-glide formula feels velvety soft without the drying feeling often associated with long-lasting lip color. The formula includes SPF 15 (yay!) and moisturizing Vitamins A, C, and E for a primer that protects and perfects. And, our pretty roll-up tube and slanted bullet make for precise, easy application.

Lipstick - Leaving no shade unturned, our huge assortment of colors and textures tempt you to stray from an otherwise predictable palette. The luxuriously creamy formula nourishes and protects lips with Vitamins A, C, and E. Hyaluronic Spheres (found naturally in the body) are added to stimulate cellular function, prevent dehydration, and fill in lines and wrinkles - now how many lipsticks can do that? the teardrop shaped bullet (etched with an Urban Decay logo) in infused with a decadant creme caramel flavor. Yum. Not your standard lipstick case, we added more glamour and an Urban twist: Urban Decay Lipstick tubes, made from weighty purple metal are pierced with a mini gunmetal dagger. The clear cap is decorated inside and out with two-toned purple flourishes. The effect is multidimensional and incredibly luxe. Oh la la.

- Confession - deep, semi-sheer burgundy

- Naked - creamy pink-nude

- Oil Slick - glossy black with silver microsparkle

24/7 Glide-On Lip Pencil - Just like our 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils, our lip penicls are guaranteed to last, and also contain Jojoba Oil, Vitamin E and Cottonseed Oil to nourish the skin and improve the smoothness of application. Go ahead and have another sip of your cocktail - our formula is waterproof but never feels dry or cakey. It's the perfect complement to Urban Decay Lipsticks, Stains, and Glosses.

- Paranoid - dark pinky nude

- Wallflower - medium nude

I have never used a Lip Primer before but as I stated in the earlier entires, if it is a primer from Urban Decay, I feel completely secure in purchasing it because I know that it will be a fantastic product. This product should be a great complement to all the red lipsticks that I recently purchased from MAC and hopefully will improve the life and wear of the color. Lipstick-wise, I really want the Naked shade, as it looks to be the perfect complement to a dramatic eye. The other two shades both scare me and draw me in at the exact same time. I have read that the Oil Slick shade is much sheerer than it appears in the tube and therefore will be much easier to wear than the black shade that I hated last fall from YSL. I love the 24/7 Eye Pencils but I doubt that I will be trying any of the same formula for lips.

photo courtesy of Urban Decay

Urban Decay Fall 2009 - Part 2

Yesterday, we looked at the newest eye products from Urban Decay. Today, we will be looking at the newest face makeup that has come out this season. It looks like this company is taking their award winning eye shadow primer and applying it to other products in the line. I have never really used primer on my face before but with how much I love Primer Potion, I would really consider trying one out from this company.

Complexion Primer Potion - Pore Perfection - Smooth on a little Pore Perfection Primer Potion before foundation (or alone!) to totally minimize the look of pores and fine lines. The velvety, paraben-free formula flashes down to a soft-matte finish without the greasy, heavy feel sometimes associated with foundation primers. The result? Flawless skin with an airbrushed look and feel. Foundation applies smoothly, evenly, and won't fade away. Ideal for oiler skin, but dry complexions who want pore perfection will love it, too. The convenient squeeze tube includes a twist-up dispenser (like school glue!) for easy portion control.

Complexion Primer Potion - Brightening - Dull skin? Fine lines? Disappearing foundation? Try Brightening Complexion Primer Potion under foundation (or alone!) for beautifully moisturized skin that looks brighter and feels tighter. This light-weight, oil-free, paraben-free formula includes buzz-worthy ingredient Matrixyl 3000, celebrated for its ability to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Hyaluronic Filling Spheres also minimize the look of fine lines whil leaving skin beautifully moisturized. Your skin will look youthful, lifted, and firm, and your foundation will apply smoothly, evenly, and last longer! Ideal for complexions that need moisture, and great for mature skin. But, our Brightening Formula gives every skin type a healthy glow.

Surreal Skin Cream-To-Powder Foundation - Want porcelain-perfect coverage AND a modern, natural finish? Surreal Skin Cream-To-Powder Foundation is your answer. This ultra-lightweight formula transforms from a decadent cream to a micro-fine powder upon contact with skin. You won't believe the instant transformation! The light-as-air texture glides on effortlessly and feels as natural as your our skin (No heavy, greasy, or powdery makeup texture). Lighter than a liquid, our buildable formula gives you all the coverage you desire, without the pore-clogging effects of heavier foundation - you can even wear it as a concealer. Hyaluronic Filling Spheres and Pearl Powders hydrate and reduce the appearance of fine lines, while antioxidants, like Vitamins A and C, nourish and protect skin. And, you Urban Decay fans with LOVE to pull this compact out of your bag! The transparent violet compact features a collage of skulls, flowers, and funny creatures. Inside the double-decker compact houses a mirror, your foundation, AND a ventilated compartment for a custom, cruelty-free brush. No more digging to find your foundation brush - its included.

- Illusion - fair

- Dream - light

- Trance - medium

- Vision - olive

- Nirvana - fair/light

- Supernova - light/medium

- Hallucination - lightly tanned

- Mirage - dark olive

Surreal Skin Mineral Makeup - Yes, it's the latest rage in skincare but why? Mineral makeup contains no talc, oils, artifical dyes, or fragrance - just naturally derived minerals - making it perfect for even the most sensitive skin, oily or dry. So why is Urban Decay's Mineral Makeup different from other mineral foundations out there? The package just might be our favorite thing - totally mess-free. Other brands' makeup needs to be poured and brushed and swirled and whatnot. Ours comes with an attached puff. Just puff it on for a flawless finish anywhere - at your vanity or on the subway. Use a little for sheer coverage or keep puffing for heavier coverage. Titanium Dioxide, a major ingredient, provides formulation color and great coverage. The handy on/off means you can toss it in your purse - no spills. Another unique thing about Surreal Skin: you'll get a semi-matte finish instead of the shiny finish other mineral foundations provide. The result is natural, not mde-up, and totally weightless.

- Illusion - fair

- Supernova - light/medium

- Vision - olive

- Destiny - deep bronzy brown

- Nirvana - fair/light

- Trance - medium

- Mirage - dark olive

- Fortune - deep reddish golden

- Dream - light

- Hallucination - lightly tanned

- Trippy - deep golden

- Fantasy - dark copper brown

And yet another post where I want to try everything! Both of the above primers sound very promising. I am thinking that the Pore Perfecting Primer might be better in warmer weather and the other in cooler temperatures. Or to try using the Pore Perfecting on my T-zone only and the other one on my cheeks. I need to look further into this. I have never tried cream to powder foundation and right now looks like a good time to foray off into this rout. The Surreal Skin Mineral Makeup actaully gets me the most excited. I really like powder foundation from Clinique and have had great luck with mose powder products (with the major exception of Bare Escentuals) and this product sounds like it fixes many of the reasons I don't also use mineral makeup. The lack of mess factor and the ease of application are two reasons that I really want to try this product out (since we know that is two reasons why I refuse to buy into the Bare Escentuals hype).

More excitment for fall!

photo courtesy of Urban Decay

Urban Decay Fall 2009 - Part 1

For this fall, Urban Decay has released about 30 brand new products so I have decided to break this collection down into categories. Today we are going to look at the new products for eyes since I harbor a love for every Urban Decay eye product that I have ever tried. So this part of the new collection gets me the most excited and is right where I want to start shopping this collection.

Ink For Eyes Cream Eye Liner - It's everything you want in a cream eyeliner! More precise than a pencil, more forgiving than a liquid, this super-smooth formula offers more control, play time, and buildable coverage than your average liner. Create razor-sharp lines or smoky bedroom eyes...the creamy formula and double-ended applicator make it easy. Try the angled liner brush for precise details, or use the smudger for blending and drama. With such a wide variety of intriguing shades and ways to apply, you're only limited by your imagination (Cheesy, but true). What's our secret ingredient? Nylon 12! This high-tech polymer decreases drag for flawless application (no skips or smears), while softening and absorbing excess oil. Color glides on easily and stays true all day long. And, the formula is paraben-free! Decorated with a hand-illustrated peacock, our long (complete with mirror) is ideal for applying color with the angled liner brush. Give the brush a couple of long strokes in each direction to fill with color, then apply.

- Binge - midnight blue

- Empire - eggplant

- Pyrotechnics - iridescent glitter, clear base

- Demolition - brown

- Loaded - deep green

- Zero - black

Eyelash Primer Potion - Wave this magic wand before your favorite mascara for lashes that appear thicker, longer, and stronger...right before your very eyes. Tiny fibers band together, cling to every lash, and construct towers of Babel...reaching for heavenly lashes. Just apply Eyelash Primer Potion, then apply your favorite mascara as usual. Your lashes will look fake, but the magic is real. Our protein-rich and paraben-free formula conditions, fortifies, and thickens lashes with Silk Protein, Panthenol, and Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein.

Deluxe Eye Shadow - Our divine collection of high-tech creamy powder eye shadow will turn your eyes into opulent works of art. Why "Deluxe"? Definitly incomparable, the creamy formula feels like cashmere, blends beautifully and delivers and even more intense burst of color than regular Urban Decay Eye Shadow. And, Deluxe hues have an even great fill weight than our regular eye shadows - a generous serving. Created with maximum staying power, Deluxe Eye Shadows offer incredibly long-lasting wear that won't fade (especially when paired with our miraculous Eyeshadow Primer Potion). The result? Gorgeous, gem-like lids that are worthy of their own exhibit. Packaged in weighted, hinged, and mirrored compacts, each vibrant shadow features a unique piece of art inspired by graffiti, street art, and graphic design. Dip into these sumptuous shades and experience never-before-seen (or felt) eye shadow extravagance.

- Frigid - deep purple with blue sheen

- Ruthless - pale sandy taupe shimmer

- Freakshow - deep purple with red sheen

Oh I already have lemmings... the new gel liner looks really exciting and I am wondering how well it will compare to Smashbox's Cream Liner. I want to get Empire, Demolition, and Zero. Especially Zero. I also really want to try the Eyelash Primer Potion, it adds yet another dimension to my mascara obsession. From the new shades of Deluxe Shadow, I only to get the Ruthless shade. However, on first glance, it already looks as though it will be a Holy Grail shade.

Next up...face makeup.

photo courtesy of Urban Decay

Creed Acqua Fiorentina

The legendary House of Creed has just released a new fragrance exclusively to Bergdorf Goodman. This perfume brand oftens holds the keys to some of my largest lemmings and just the sight of the bottles is enough to practically sends me into a frenzy. This new fragrance is called Acqua Fiorentina and is the creation of master perfumer Oliver Creed and his son Erwin.

The fragrance is described by Bergdorf Goodman as follows, "The inspiration is Fifteenth Century Florence in Italy, where artists and innovators such as da Vinci and Michelangelo lit a new flame of beauty and culture, sparking a Renaissance of art always growing in worth, even today. Orchards and farms around Florence are sources for Acqua Fiorentina ingredients. Acqua Fiorentina is an investment in fragrance, a statement about the lasting value of fine scent, shared and enjoyed generation to generation".

The top note is slightly sweet greengage plum, often used in cuisine as a dessert plum.

The middle notes are Renaissance roses, pink carnations, bergamot orange, and Calabrian lemon that are a finely rendered portrait of fruits and blooms.

The base notes are Virginia cedar and Indian sandalwood and are the warm, sculpted frame of this work of art.

This fragrance looks like a winner for me, just based on the fact that it contains rose as one of the major middle notes. I always need to add another rose fragrance to my evergrowing collection and the fact that this fragrance is considered to be a "work of art" makes it all the better.

photo courtesy of Bergdorf Goodman

Dupe of MAC Vellum

Last December, MAC released a Limited Edition collection called Chill and one of the re-releases in that collection was a shade called Vellum. At one point, this was a permanent shade in the MAC Eye Shadow collection and was a repromote in this collection. Now the shade has been made a pro only shade and has left some devoted fans in its wake. This shadow is considered to have been one of the most unique shades that was ever released from MAC. I have been given the assignment by a friend to replace this shade and find another shade that can be used in place of this one.

The shade is described as a white with a lilac flash and the finish is Frost. It is duochrome and appears white in the pan, but once it is applied on the lid, it can appear white, blue, or lilac. It can be used as a highlighter, liner, or over other shades to transform the overall look. The first step I took in the search was to search the MAC website and see what they had to say about a replacement for this shade. They suggested one shade that might be considered similar, White Frost. This shade is a frosty vivid white with an icy shimmer. However, it does not contain the duochrome, making it unacceptable as a dupe for Vellum.

I began my next search at Sephora, the odds there are pretty good that I will find something close. In the Bare Escentuals area, I found a shade in their Glimpse Shadow collection called Flamenco, which is a bright lavender. However, it doesn't have quite the same frosty finish and it has no duochrome so this one is a no-go.

Next, I went over to Urban Decay. Personally, I find the quality of Urban Decay's shadows to be a higher quality than that of MAC and have been a favorite of mine for quite a long time. I found several shades that are possible contenders in this area. The first shade is called Asphyxia which is a lavender with a blue sheen. First thought - Yes! A duochrome! However, I kept looking at other shades to make sure that I can find the closest dupe on the market. I looked Grifter, which is a sparkling pale purple. I also looked at Stalker, which is an intense lilac with silver glitter. Then I looked at Flash, which is a bright violet sheen. After this round, I decided that Grifter is a bit too pink to make the match and that Stalker and Flash are both a bit too dark.

At the Lancome counter, I found a shade called Color du Jour. This is a very pretty lilac but it not shimmery enough to be a dupe. Also, it has nothing that resembles the duochrome. I am just storing this color in the back of my brain because I think that I will be wanting this one for myself in the coming months.

At this point, I am thinking that Urban Decay's Asphyxia will be the winner but I wanted to check the NARS counter out because I am also quite a fan of their eye shadow formulation. The only shade that I found over here that is even close is Night Rider, one of the pale shades in the famed Night collection. This shade is described as soft plum with silver glitter but I think that it is a bit too dark to be an accurate dupe. I also looked in the Cream Shadow area but to no avail, there was nothing that would even be a close dupe to the original.

So the winner is Urban Decay's Asphyxia because it a lilac that has the duochrome quality to it so it can also flash blue. This is the only shade with the duochrome and therefore, the only dupe that I could find.

photo courtesy of Sephora

Dior Addict Lip Glow

This lip balm is a unique offering from Dior, it is a product that both hydrates and provides pigment. This product reacts with the user's individual body chemistry to turn their lips what should be the perfect shade for them. this reminds me very much of O-Gloss from Smashbox but with much improved moisturizing properties. It is described as "a color-awakening lip balm with SPF 10".

Here is the description of the product from Sephora, "Dior Addict Lip Glow responds to the color chemistry of your lips to create a shade that is uniquely yours. Smooth it on to moisturize, add sun protection, and enhnace your natural lip color". This lip product creates lip shades of every color between pale nudes all the way to superbright pinks. Most of reviews that I have read of this product are based on the shade that the lips get turned. Most of the people that love the product get the lighter shade and most of the people that hate it got the bright pink shade.

The moisturizing properties of this product were exceptional when I tried it out. I really liked the product because I got a bit of a pinky shade that made my lips look plumper but didn't give them any great amount of pigment. I loved the silver bullet package that the product comes in but packaging is the one aspect that Dior always gets right.

The major downside of this product is that I do not feel that it provides enough sun protection especially in the summer months. An SPF of only 10 is way too low and I feel that it should be closer to 25 or 30 in order to give full protection from the harmful sun's rays.

I really like this product but that is in major part to the fact that it didn't me bright pink clown lips.

photo courtesy of Sephora

Lancome Fall Collection 2009 - Declaring Indigo

Readers, you have already gotten a sneak preview of this collection when I posted my Most Wanted list from the Nordstrom event. The set of brushes that topped that list were the first release from this fall collection. On first sight, this looks like a another gem from Aaron de May, the company's new creative director. Here ie the description from the Lancome website, "Aaron de May declares for Lancome his new vision of free beauty. A collection modeled after the free spirit of a woman. She is Irreverent, Empowering, and a Trend-Setter. The statement is French Irreverence - a mix of insolence and charm, feminity with a twist and elegance. His inspiration is of magnificent heroines, women of convications and emotions that journey through life with a free state of mind and spirit. The Fall Color Collection is a declaration of beauty, the beginning of a new era...introducing Declaring Indigo".

Here is the collection...

Smudger Brush #10 - This compact, natural-bristled brush is the ideal partner to all Lancome eye shadows. It perfectly smudges shadow for asmoky, softly lined look.

Virtuose Black Carat Mascara - A Lancome first. Divinely lengthened, voluptous curves. Silky glide. Pure black lashes. All-in-one mascara lengthens, volumizes, and curves lashes all day. Enriched with black essence pigments, the formula glides on easily, and gives a deep, black result. Long-lasting formula is virtually smudegeproof, tear-proof, and easily removable.
- Black Carat - pure black

Ombre Perfecteur Perfecting Eye Shadow Base - Waterproof and long-wearing, this matte finish formula holds eye shadow perfectly in place all day. Helps correct and even out skin tone while priming the eyes for superior eye shadow wear. Result: lids look smoother, creasing is eliminated.
- Clair - for all skintones

Blending Tip Brush #16 - This versatile, long-haired brush gradually tapers to a medium-sized dome of soft, natural hair bristles. Its unique shape makes it ideal for applying shadow all over lids, softening eye contour colors, diffusing shadow pigments, or setting concealer to perfection. Shadow is seamlessly blended with horizontal strokes from the outer corner of the lid up into the crease, making eyes look extra defined. Concealer is set by using light vertical strokes around the eye area.

Ink Artliner Long Wear Calligraphy Gel Eye Liner - Eyelining becomes calligraphy. This superb new gel formula has the rich creamy texture that ensures a luxuriously smooth application. With deep, luminous pigments offering the most intense color imaginable, this liner creates pure drama.
- Brun Elegance - brown
- Indigo Charm - navy
- Noir Magnificance - black

Blending Shadow Brush #17 - This versitile long-haired brush gradually tapers to a medium-size dome of soft, natural hair bristles. Its unique shape makes it ideal for applying shadow all over the lids, softening eye contour colors, diffusing shadow pigments, or setting concealer to perfection. Shadow is seamlessly blended with horizontal strokes from the outer corner of the lid up into the crease, making eyes look extra defined. Concealer is set by using light, verticle strokes around the eye area.

Color Design Liberty Palette Limited Edition Sensational Effects Eye Shadow Quad Smooth Hold Fall 2009 - Design eyes with a color designer's palette of finishes: from shimmer to sheen, metallic to matte. Micro-aired powder technology offers supreme smoothness and blendability in the sultriest new shades.
- Golden Audacity - gold/champagne/beige/slate grey
- Indigo Charm - indigo/beige/champagne/navy
- Nude Elegance - beige/champagne/taupe/slate grey

Virtuose Dive Lasting Curves Mascara - A Lancome first: 100 degree lash curve with divine length all day. Curlguard formula lengthens and holds a divine lash curve for 12 hours. The KeepCurl brush provides an outstanding eyelash curler effect. Long-lasting formula is virtually smudge-proof, tear-proof, and easily removable.
- Black - black
- Brown - brown
- Royal Gold - navy with gold flecks

Fall Eye Brush - The makeup artist's best friend. This sleek, perfectly sculpted brush lets you precision-line, shape, and define your eyes beautifully. The handle is ultra-slim and easy to hold for a professional finish. Ideal with Ink Artliner, or any eyeliner, weat or dry.

Le Crayon Lip Contour - Rich, creamy colour in an automatic pencil that never needs sharpening. Its soft, rounded tip swivels up to provide with lasting colour and perfect definition, while preventing lipstick from feathering or bleeding.
- Rouge Liberty - medium tone pink
- Berry Sensual - medium tone berry

Color Design Sensational Effects Lip Color Smooth Hold - Dress your lips in new Color Design Lip Color for full coverage, smooth hold, and sensational effects in one coat. Creams, sheens, shimmers, and metallics - four modern finishes for custom lip styling. A range of 36 shades to create the perfect designer's palette for any lip tone.
- Paris Rouge - midtone bright pink
- Berry Sensual - bright berry
- Rouge Liberty - deep red

Retractable Lip Brush #9 - The versatile, synthetic-bristle brush is the ideal partner to all Lancome lip colours and glosses. This sleek, precise applicator retracts easily for portable convenience. Precisely and evenly applies lip colour for a flawless, professional look.

Color Fever Gloss Sensual Vibrant Lip Shine - Magnify your lips with dazzling, radiant shine. With Shine-Reflect Technology, ultra-radiant shine is revealed. Ingenious Lip-Magnify applicator provides even coverage and contours lips with amazing precison for voluptuous, plump curves. Multiple glamorous shades. Just dare!
- Berry Glamour - deep berry
- Raspberry Glimmer - midtone berry
- Rouge Magnifance - red
- Declaring Gold - sheer gold
- Golden Rouge - warm golden red

Le Vernis - It is Lancome most technically advanced polish. Your fingertips and toes will love the boost of color and lasting shine that stays put for up to seven days. Its cutting edge soft-sculpt brush embrances the shape of each nail for perfectly even coverage in one coat with no clumps. Shield Plasticizers keep nails flexible, shiny, and more resistant to shock and abrasion. Chip free for days! Methyl-Sulfonyl-Methane (MSM) is a naturally occruing substance known for its diverse health benefits, including support for healthy nails. It is known to boost the production of keratin, a tough protein from which finger and toe nails are made. MSM paired with Shield Plasticizers make nails much stronger and more flexible.
- Indigo Paris - deep blue
- Golden Audacity - shimmering gold
- Rouge Liberty - red

Powder Brush #1 - Made with only the finest materials, this precision-crafted tools allow for virtually flawless makeup application everytime, anywhere. Sweeps on powder for a smooth, natural finish.

Blush Subtil Delicate Oil-Free Powder Blush - This luxuriously silky powder blush glides on with its own brush to colour and contour. This moisture-balancing formula is oil-free and oil-absorbing. Blends easily and lasts for hours. Never looks dry. Result: the ultimate natural finish blush.
- Rouge Glow - warm midtone pink

Cheek Brush #6 - This compact, natural-bristled brush is the ideal partner to all Lancome powder blush. It easily and evenly applies colour for a professional blushing effect.

La Rose Liberte Highlighting Bronzer - The one highlighter for every skintone. Over foundation or on bare skin, this highlighter is ideal for every complexion. An exclusive blend of iridescent white and golden beige powders creates a beautiful touch of luminosity. A unique, multi-compacted formula allows powder to glide on evenly for a velvety-soft finish and sunny glow in any season. And for visual elegance, Lancome's signature rose is etched into the powder.
- Goldenescent Glow - golden beige

Photogenic Skin illuminating Concealer SPF 15 - A creamy-sheer, easy-to-blend concealer that hydrates and protects as it hides blemishes and dark circles. Lancome's new Photo-Flex Complex optimizes the effects of light to perfect the look of your complex with Ginseng, Ginkgo, and Vitamin C help energize your skin and broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreens help protect the delicate eye area from sun damage.
- Camee - for medium skintones

Photogenic Sheer Loose Powder - This sheer, micro-fine loose powder provides a flawless, natural-looking finish. Lancome's new Photo-Flex Complex of 2-D reflecting powders and 3-D diffusing powders, adjusts the effects of light so your skin looks radiant. Won't cake. Won't settle into lines. Won't clog pores. Result: picture-prefect skin in any light. Oil-free. Fragrance-free. Non-comedogenic. Won't clog pores.
- Light Buff - for light to medium skintones

Foundation Brush #2 - Made with only the finest materials, this precision-crafted tool allows for virtually flawless makeup application every time, anywhere. Provides even coverage of liquid foundation for a picture-perfect finish.

Concealer Brush #8 - Made with the finest materials, this precision-crafted tool allows for virutally flawless makeup apllication every time, anywhere. Applies concealer evenly for beautiful, natural looking coverage.

Fall Powder Brush - The master of sheer perfection. This luxuriously full brush sweeps on powder smoothly and easily for flawless, even application. Soft and perfectly contoured, it's ideal for use with La Rose Liberte or any powder.

Photogenic Lumessence Light Mastering & Line Smoothing Makeup SPF 15 - Master the light for a glowing smooth and refined complexion. Pure luminious perfection. Lancome's breakthrough PhotonicNetwork, a unique association of coated pigments and micro-pearls, produces endless radiance from within. Fine lines, pores, and imperfections visibly vanish for pure luminious perfection. Visibly refined smooth complexion. Silky soft texture glides on to visibly refine skin's surface for a smooth, even complexion. Exclusive Aqua-Catch Complex locks in moisture for up to 24 hours for all day hydration and a youthful complexion. Results: a photo-finished, smooth, even complexion illuminated from within. Flawless in any light. moderate to full coverage. Radiant finish. Oil-free. Non-acnegenic.

- Buff 4c - for pale, cool complexions

Wow...so a huge new collection! What do I want from it? Well, let's just say thatr my shopping list of this collection will be pretty huge too. First and foremost, I want the Rouge Liberty Lipstick, it looks like another amazing red to add to my collection. I am also really lemming the Indigo Paris and Rouge Liberty polishes, especially the Indigo Paris. I also want to get the Virtouse Black Carat Mascara, of course...that honestly should go without saying at this point. I also want the Ink Artliner in Noir Magnificance and both the Golden Audacity and Nude Elegance eye shadow palettes. Finally, I want to get the La Rose Liberte face highlighter. I'm not going to decide what brushes that I need until I get to the counter and decide what products I will get.

Is it just me or has Aaron de May created yet another stunning collection?

photo courtesy of Lancome

Caudalie Vinopure

It is now the height of summer and it is hot and super muggy outside. Just going outside and getting out of the air conditioning is enough to make all of my makeup slide off of my face. And having any type of hydrator on my face in the daytime does nothing to help out this problem. But if I don't use some type of lotion, then my face will be so dry that it feels like it crack open when I go back inside. Summer beauty is painful sometimes...

So what is a girl to do? I decided to go out and find a lightweight hydrator that contains some type of mattifier and is hopefully designed for oily/combination skin. And what did I end up walking out of the store with. Something from Caudalie of course! Really...did you all think that I would look for another brand before searching this one for the needed product. The product of which I am referring to is called Vinopure Matte Finish Fluid and it is exactly what i had in mind before I went into Sephora.

Vinopure Matte Finish Fluid is part of the line of products in the purple packaging, which are designed for oiler skin type that are in need of purification without the addition of excess oil. These products have an overall lighter texture than most of the other products offered from this company. Here is the description of the product from the Sephora website, "Ideal for combination skin in need of anti-oxidant protection, this oil-free fluid moisturizes and purifies, as it regulates oil production, refining skin texture, leaving the skin with a soft matte finish. Formulated without parabens, phenoxyethanol, animal ingredients, and artifical colorings".

The reason that I purchased this product was for oil control in the warmer months and it really delivers on that promise. My face is matte from the time that I apply this product in the morning and stays that way through the next few hours. However after that time, I do need to touch up with blotting papers on my t-zone area. This product is very light and didn't cause any breakouts (a major positive). But I will have to admit that this product is not among my favorites from Caudalie. It left my cheek area too dry and didn't really hydrate it enough to combat the dryness from the air conditioning. I think product isn't really a top choice for someone with skin that leans more toward combination than all over oily. Unless they wish to apply it only to oily areas of thier face...it would be ideal then.

I would recommend this product to someone with oily skin that needs shine protection but wants to stick with more natural skincare options. As I said earlier, I would really only recommend this product to someone that has combination skin if they were to only use it on oily areas of their face.

photo courtesy of Sephora

Test Driving...

I am currently test driving a few new products. Reviews to come...

- Lippmann Collection Nail Polish in Prelude to a Kiss
- MAC Dazzleglass in Baby Sparks
- Annick Goutal Les Nuits d'Hadrien
- Urban Decay Eye Shadow in Chopper
- MAC Eye Kohl in Smolder
- Urban Decay Eye Shadow in Smog
- Urban Decay Eye Shadow in Last Call

What are you all test driving?

Bobbi Brown Fall 2009 Collection - The Nude Collection

For early fall of 2009, Bobbi Brown has released a collection of all nudes that are very wearable for any women in almost any circumstance. This collection is described in that it "will take you anywhere from basic to bold". Bobbi's quote on this collection is as follows, "Nude makeup doesn't mean monochromatic, barely-there makeup. It means makeup that is right for your skin".

On that note, here is the new collection...

Nude Eye Palette - A Bobbi must-have palette takes you effortlessly from day to night. In three different textures: soft matte, lightly pearlized, and metallic high shimmer, three eye shadow duos come in our customizable three pan palette. Included exclusive shades: Navajo Eye Shadow, Pebble Metallic Eye Shadow, Chino Eye Shadow, Beige Linen Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow, Maple Sugar Metallic Eye Shadow, Caviar Eye Shadow.

Eye Shadow Brush - Applies just the right amount of eye shadow to the lid.

Nude Shimmer Brick - Our iconic shimmer brick is now available in the perfect everyday shade: Nude. This handmade brick features five pure pearl pigments: pink, gold, bronze, beige, and caramel - designed to be blended together to give all skintones a soft nude, lit from within glow. Layer over blush as a highlighter or or use individual shades on lids for a sheer, pearlized look.

Face Blender Brush - A great multi-purpose brush, ideal for dusting Shimmer Brick compact on cheeks for a natural-looking, shimmery glow. The Face Blender Brush can also be used with Sheer Finish Powder, Blush, or Bronzing Powder.

Long Wear Gel Eyeliner - This award-winning liner offers the precision of a liquid liner and the ease of a gel-based formula. Award "Elle" 'Genius Award' (April 2008), "In Style" 'Best Beauty Buy' (2008), and "Allure" 'Readers' Choice Award' (2008).

- Caviar Ink - black

Ultra Fine Eyeliner Brush - Easy to hold and control, this slim, tapered Ultra Fine Eyeliner Brush creates a flawless line. The brush hairs are finely pointed and tightly packed for precise application. Availabel in two sizes: Professional (6" Handle) and Short Handle (4" Handle). Allure Best of Beuaty Winner 2008.

Creamy Lip Color - Bobbi is adding four must-have new shades to her Creamy Lip Color collection. Each of these shades creates a naturally classic look that works beautifully with the Nude Eye Palette and Nude Shimmer Brick. This innovative lipstick combines rich color, comfortable wear, and a soft, creamy shine. Formulated with emollient shea butter and skin conditioners, it glides on smooth and leaves lips soft and moisturized.

- Rose Bud - pale nude rose

- Rose Garden - nude rose

- Soft Blush - pale nude

- Twilight - deep nude

Blush - Silky formula glides on smoothly and offers a matte finish with long-lasting wear. Comes in this sleek, flip-top compact that can be used individually or assembled into palettes.

There were no new shades of introduced with this collection, the user is to pick her best shade of blush to complement the nude eye and lip looks. That being said, I am quite a big fan of this collection, I like that it is very wearable and I think that many of these products will be a quite a hit. I love the collection look that Bobbi did and I really hoep that these products would work out as well for me. I want to buy the whole collection but if I had to narrow it down, I would pick the Eye Palette, the Caviar Gel Liner, and the Creamy Lip color in both Rose Bud and Rose Garden. Lotta love for this new collection!

photo courtesy of Bobbi Brown

MAC Plush Glass

This might be a shocker but I have found my favorite lip gloss ever in the past few months. I got the MAC Plush Glass in Ample Pink last summer after the sales assocaite at MAC recommended it to me as a My-Lips-But-Better look to pair with dramatic eye makeup. Over the past few months, I have found myself reaching for it more than any other color that I own and the level in the tube is actually beginning to visibly dwindle...that hasn't happened to me in ages before. To add to the madness, I now go around recommending this gloss to everyone that is searching for a great lip product or something. I also have began handing it around to friends so that they can see for themselves why I go nuts over this product.

Here is the product description from MAC, "Sheer lip colour with a pearlized high-shine gloss finish. Comfortable to wear: lush, multi-dimensional. Gives a cool-warm, vanilla buzz to the lips. Moisturizes, soothes and visibly plumps the lips to make them look luxuriously healthy and well-conditioned. Contains vitamin E for added environmental protection". It has the traditional vanilla scent that all MAC lip products have and it has a bit of mint in it to add a tingle. The mint tingle is used to plump the lips but it is far from the effect of traditional lip plumpers. It just makes them a bit plumper to focus more attention on your lips without it being obvious that that is the objective.

Here are the shades that are available right now...

- Pretty Plush - extra-soft pink with white pearl

- Bountiful - richly pearlized mid-tone pink

- Nice Buzz - shimmery light gold with gold pearl

- Wildly Lush - lush, light, apricot

- Ample Pink - full, soft, rose

- Big Baby - peach with pink and white pearl

- Big Kiss - coral with pink and white pearl

- Fulfilled - full-blush creamy pink

- Wet, Wild, Wonderful - bronze with gold pearl

- Full For You - ultra-cool pink with silver pearl

- Posh It Up - pinked gold

- Power Supply - muted pinky brown with gold sparkle

- Oversexed - sheer red with small gold pearl

Ample Pink is the only gloss that I have from this collection but now I really want to get a bunch more of the shades. Here is the short list - Pretty Plush, Bountiful, Big Baby, Fulfilled, Full For You, Posh It up, and Oversexed.

The Ample Pink is jsut the most fantastic shade for me. I look amazing in it and the formula makes my lips look like full, plump pillows, making the male gender go gaga and stare at my lips. But without looking like I am trying for the attention. I really think everyone needs to run out and try this formula gloss when they next hit up their local MAC counter.

photo courtesy of MAC

Philosophy The Sweet Shoppe

Philosophy has released a new limited edition set to Sephora that has my name written all over...The Sweet Shoppe. The products are based on candy and other yummy goodies that can be bought in candy stores. It should be noted that as I sit here and write this, I am eating my way through about a pound of cotton candy flavored salt water taffy. Maybe this product could help me out with that little problem...

This is what Sephora has to say about the trio, "Philosophy The Sweet Shoppe™ Set makes your bathing experience an escape to the candy store. These gentle, creamy, crave-worthy formulas provide rich, luscious lather to leave skin and hair ultraclean and silky-soft". This set contains a 6 oz size of these three fragrances; Bubble Gum Blow Out, Squishy Red Fishy, and Mouthwatering Watermelon. Each of the products is one of Philosophy's signature 3 in 1s.

While all three of the fragrances tempt me into purchasing them, Bubble Gum Blow Out is the one that I think that I want the most. Sephora also sells this product in the full size by itself and the scent is described as being a sweet and perfectly bubble-gummy scent. This is the only one that also comes in a full sized container. Squisky Red Fishy is a red Swedish Fish inspired fragrance (still one of my favorite candies), and the Watermelon scent is reminiscent of Watermelon Jolly Ranchers. Yumm...

Also with the release of these body products, Philosophy has released a lip gloss set that contains the Watermelon and Bubble Gum scents in sheer pink lip glosses. The Watermelon one looks to be more on the brighter pink side and the Bubble Gum looks to be a pale pink. These flavors remind me a bit of the Lip Smacker glosses that I used to use in high school but I don't really think that is totally a bad thing. Just Lip Smackers a bit more grown-up.

This is my kind of candy shoppe...However, everytime that I say the name of this product, I am reminded of the 50 Cent song by the same name (but not the same kind of candy shoppe!).

photo courtesy of Sephora

Most Wanted August 2009

Time to begin the fall beauty shopping lists...


- YSL Fard a Levres Rouge Pur Pure Lipstick in Opium Red
- REN Moroccan Rose Otto Sugar Body Polish
- Essie Matte About You Matte Top Coat
- MAC Eye Shadow in Goldmine
- Philip B. Russian Amber Imperial Shampoo
- Bobbi Brown Nude Eye Palette
- Nanette by Nanette Lepore EDT
- Molton Brown Purifying Plum-Kadu Hairwash
- A Scent by Issey Miyake
- Urban Decay Eye Shadow in Grifter

Time to let the fun begin!