LUSH Palm Oil-Free Body Products

Over the past few months, the bath and body company LUSH has been on a mission to "wash their hands of palm". LUSH has traditionally been concerned with the environment and has always strived to reduce the company's impact on the environment. Also, along with the concern for the environment, LUSH extends their concern to the social aspects of the product of this ingredient. I received both an email and a LUSH Times focusing on this environmental and social issue.

During a recent trip to Indonesia to explore tha palm oil industry, the people from LUSH were able to witness first hand the effects of the oil's production on the world. They witnessed massive deforestation, indigenous people being pushed further and further from their homes, and the native orangutans being pushed from their natural habitat and growing closer to extinction. I had learned about the deforestation issues in Indonesia while in college but had no idea that many items that I purchase from the beauty industry actually added to this problem. I was mostly under the impression that logging was to blame but I understand how the palm oil industry can greatly add to the problem.

According to this issue of LUSH Times, the cosmetic industry currently consumes about 6 - 7% of the world's total palm oil and it is a main active ingredient in many soaps from traditional beauty companies. After reviewing the horror that the palm oil industry has racked on the lands of Indonesia, LUSH decided to review their soap recipes and devise products that are free of palm oil and are much more ethically formulated. LUSH has now introduced the world's first commercially available palm oil-free soap base.

LUSH North America has now switched all of its soap production over to this new formula and they are also using palm-free glycerin. The end goal of this company is to remove palm oil from every single item offered from the LUSH collection and they are currently running an investigation on all surfactants which may contain palm oil dervatives.

I am already a big fan of LUSH soaps and today we are going to look at one that is unisex and a great product for both genders of all ages. I have only sniffed and played with this product at the LUSH store on Broadway but even after a brief encounter, I was quite happy with it and will be purchasing it very soon. This product is the Sea Vegetable soap and one that reminds me of the summer and the ocean.

LUSH USA describes the product as follows, "Fun, relaxing days at the beach don't need to be a thing of the past. With Sea Vegetable soap, you end up right at the ocean shore. Atlanic sea salt crystals and arame seaweed make you feel like a mermaid as you wash yourself clean with this fabulous soap. Seaweed absolute nourishes the skin and gives it a seaside scent while lavender and lime oils refresh and revive dull skin".

LUSH will continue to be tops in my book for soap and I am very happy to see that this company (who has a history of being responsible) is still continuing to update and improve their products to benefit the environment. The soap that I talk about in this entry is great starter scent for everyone and one that will hook everyone to LUSH soaps.

photo courtesy of LUSH USA

A Couple Thoughts on the New FTC Guidelines...

Lately, it has come to light that the FTC is concerned with beauty blogs and that companies that send out free products tend to get better reviews from the bloggers. So the new guidelines state that bloggers must release in every post how they obtained the products that they are talking about. So here are several things that will now be included in every single one of my posts.

This will be very simple and my blog entries and formatting will have very little change. I never received free products from beauty companies to begin with so my life will not be changing very much. If I have purchased the product with my own funds, I will simply state that at some point during the product discussion. If the product is a sample that I have received, it is usually one that is from the Sephora Beauty Insider program or that I received with a purchase at a department store counter. If I have only used the tester at a counter, I will state that in the discussion. Often, when I discuss new collections that are coming out, I have not purchased any of the products yet and sometimes am seeing them for the first time on the company's website. Also, my Most Wanted lists include items that I want to purchase but have not gotten a chance to yet.

Also, to avoid any copyright issues, I will state right here that I pull the collection descriptions and product descriptions right from the individual company's website or Sephora's or whatever website I happen to be using at the time. My personal preference when writing about a product is to start by looking at how the company would like the product to be used and then I try to look at see how accurate this assessment is. Sometimes I do not like the product at all, sometimes I think it might benefit more when used in a way other than the original suggestions.

So this entry is needed to comply with FTC guidelines. I will try as hard as possible to be completely clear in all of my entries about how I came by the product and what statements are made by the company and by myself.

Coconut Hut Beauty Holiday 2009 Scents

Coconut Hut Beauty is little-known bath and body etailer but one that I think creates some of the most amazing products that I have ever used. Even on the Bath and Body Board of Makeup Alley, this etailer seems to get very little coverage compared to some of the better known etailers. The company is owned by Lena who is also responsible for creating all the products and fragrances. This company is based in Southern California and therefore many of the over 500 (!) scents are based on coconut and other tropical blends. In addition to feeding my love of coconut body products, Lena offers amazing Designer Fragrance dupes and gourmand scents to tempt anyone with a pulse.

This company releases Limited Edition fragrances for the Holidays and these would make a great gift for anyone who prefers to celebrate Christmas surrounded by palm trees instead of evergreens. These fragrances are availble in all types of products allowing the gift giver to create a completely one-of-kind, unique gift.

Here are the new fragrances...

Candy Cane Chai Latte - A steaming cup of chai with a shot of vanilla cream, stirred with a stick of peppermint.

Chocolate Covered Candy Cane - Christmas candy canes dipped in warm chocolate fondue.

Eggnog Cupcake - Rich eggnog is blended with vanilla cake batter to create fluffy golden cupcakes iced with creamy butter cream frosting and sprinkled with raw sugar cane crystals.

Frosty's Snowball - A rich milk chocolate patty, filled with peppermint creme and sweet coconut.

Magic Elf Slippers - The sweet dreamy scent of vanilla birthday cake decorated with candied lime blossoms, dusted with sugared shortbread crumbs, and crushed candy canes.

Mele Kalikimaka - "Mele Kalikimaka" is the thing to say on a bight Hawaiian Christmas morning. A rich blend of Norfolk Pine (common to the islands), tropical fruit, and coconut create an outstanding holiday scent.


Rudolph's Cupcake - A fluffy vanilla cupcake with cherry pie filling, iced with decadent vanilla frosting.

Santa's Bakery - Warm gingerbread, creamy eggnog, and pumpkin pie swirled together to create happy Christmas memories.

Snow Angel Frost - Sweet cane sugar, notes of hard peppermint candy, creamy vanilla, and just a hint of angel food cake tops off this delectable scent.

Sticky Peppermint Snowball - Sweet peppermint cady and sticky marshmellow fluff are mixed with oodles of luscious vanilla and a touch of coconut cake.

Winter White Chocolate - Creamy smooth white chocolate in blended with refreshing peppermint.

Winter Wonderland Cake - A vanilla cake layered with mandarin oranges and orange creme custard, frosted with thick vanilla icing and crushed peppermint canddy canes.

Product-wise, I would recommend the body butter or the body cream depending on what type of texture you receipent you prefer. I personally prefer the thicker body cream since it is still easy to spread and rub it. Also the body wash is great to add into the gift. I also recommend the Hawaiian Icing Whipped Sugar Scrub. It is a best seller on the website and has a texture that reminds me of thick, creamy frosting. Here's to some Christmas opinions for those who prefer the beach!

NARS Holiday 2009 Collection

No matter how icky I am feeling, a new NARS collections always manages to brighten my day. Which is good, since today I have the sniffles, a sore throat, and my body aches all over. I guess that it's time to look at the new products for this Holiday season before I manage to fully contract the flu.

NARS states that, "The look for NARS Holiday 2009 Collection is steeped in sophistication and sensuality with a palette of shades that are intriguing and bold with just the right touch of festive shimmer. 'For the holidays, I think it's a great time to feel beautiful...with a bit of movie star attitude', Francois Nars".

Here is the new collection...

Soft Touch Shadow Pencil - New! Soft Touch Shadow Pencils provide easy, portable, long-wearing application. These jumbo sized pencils have versatile functionality to shade the lid, line, or highlight the eye. Smooth, creamy texture delivers a smooth, velvety feel to the eye and make for easy blending and an ideal base for layering with a powder shadow for increased color intensity.

- Aigle Noir - black infused with gold shimmer

- Goddess - glistening pink champagne

- Skorpios - iridescent copper

Duo Eye Shadow - Shades to inspire and desire. The same long-wearing, crease resistant formula as NARS single eye shadows, in uniquelt paired color combinations. Worn together or alone, all duo eye shadows can be applied sheer or built up for a more dramatic look. All powder eye shadows can be used wet or dry.

- Taiga - pale gold frost/gold infused pewter

- Brousse - sable/black violet

- Eurydice - electric aubergine/graphite

The Multiple - The original multi-purpose stick for eyes, cheeks, lips, and body. Its unique creamy formula blends effortlessly to provide sheer color for creating shimmering accents, contours or dynamic highlights on all skin tones. Creates perfect, glowing complexions and is conveniently designed for failproof application.

- Luxor - iridescent pink

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.

- Rouge Andalou - candy apple red

Cream Eye Shadow - Soft cream-to-powder formula that provides long-lasting shimmering color. The ultra-pigmented shades are balanced in a lightweight texture, transparent in application. This soft-blending formula can be worn alone or layered under NARS Powder Eye Shadow for long-lasting wear and intensity.

- Mousson - silver sage

Velvet Matte Lip Pencil - The convenience of a pencil with the application of a lipstick in a jumbo-sized crayon design. Instantly coats lips with rich pigment, imparting a velvet matte finish for seamless color. The long-lasting yet non-drying formula is enriched with special emollients for a cramy texture, with a combination of unique silicones ensures long-lasting, velvety color for hours.

- Toundra - metallic burgundy

- Pop Life - shimmering true red

I can't really say that I am very excited about this collection. There are some pieces that I would like to get but overall, I find the collection to be on the fair side. I that Holiday collections are somewhat like Summer collections in that the majority of the collections tend to very similar and that trends are mostly set in the Spring and Fall collections. From this collection, I would really like to get all three of the new Soft Touch Pencils and the Taiga Duo Eye Shadow. I haven't used a jumbo Lip Pencil in a very long time (I had one in high school from Clinique) so I would be willing to give it a shot but I'm not really attracted to either of these shades.

photo courtesy of NARS

New Fragrances From D & G

Five new fragrances were recently released from the D & G design house. These fragrances are considered to be unisex and are inspired by the art of self-expression. Sephora gives the following as a brief overview of the fragrance group, "Created for the young, dynamic generation that demands the freedom to choose, D & G by Dolce & Gabbana is a line-up of five fragrances inspired by the art of self-expression. Neither male nor female-specific, the unisex scents evoke distinctly different perfume personas."

Here are the five new fragrances...

1 Le Bateleur - 1 Le Bateleur is a seductive, boundary-shattering blend with a top of cardamom and juniper berry, a heart of aquatic accord and coriander, and a base of vetyver, olibanum, and cedarwood. The provocative impression channels a distinctive character that is neither male, nor female, nor unisex, moving with dynamism to the free, edgy style that marks the D & G fashion empire. Seductive, sexy, provocative.

3 L'Imperatrice - 3 L'Imperatrice is a confident, charismatic, boundary-shattering blend with a top of rhubarb, kiwi accord, and red currant; a heart of pink cyclamen, watermelon, and jasmine; and a base of musk, sandalwood, and grapefruit wood. The impression channels a successful, compelling character that is neither male, nor female, nor unisex, moving with dynamism to the free, edgy style that marks the D & G fashion empire. Confident, successful, charismatic.

6 L'Amoreux - 6 L'Amoreux is a romantic, sensual, boundary-shattering blend with a top of bergamot, juniper berry, and pink pepper; a heart of cardamom, birch leaf, and orris root; with a base of musks and woods. The impression channels a desirable character that is neither male, nor female, nor unisex, moving with dynamism to the free, edgy style that marks the D & G fashion empire. Romantic, desirable, sensual.

10 La Roue de La Fortune - 10 La Roue de La Fortune is an adventurous, boundary-shattering blend with a top of pink pepper, pineapple, and tuberose; a heart of gardenia, jasmine, and vanilla; and a base of orris, benzoin, and patchouli. The impression channels a creative, experimental character that is neither male, nor female, nor unisex, moving with dynamism to the free, edgy style that marks the D & G fashion empire. Adventurous, creative, experimental.

18 La Lune - 18 La Lune is a hypnotizing, boundary-shattering blend with a top of apple, bergamot, and lily; a heart of rose and tuberose; and a base of orris, sandalwood, and musk. The impression channels a mysterious, delicate character that is neither male, nor female, nor unisex, movinf with dynamism that marks the D & G fashion empire. Mysterious, hypnotizing, delicate.

How is fragrance not for either gender yet is not considered to be a unisex fragrance? I guess the thought process behind that one escapes me. The company seems to consider these fragrances as separate "personalities". I guess they mean that one chooses the fragrances that is closet to their personality and not just based on what they want to smell like that day. Also, after smelling all of these fragrances, I can't really see them as fragrances that a man would choose for himself. Especially 10 la Roue de La Fortune and 18 La Lune, both of these fragrances are very floral and very feminine. My favorite fragrance of the group is 3 L'Imperatrice which is a light fruity floral that will be fantastic next summer.

Making fragrances based on personalities for either gender is a very new idea and somehow I am betting that it will churn out a million clones over the next few seasons.

photo courtesy of Sephora

Laura Mercier Stickgloss

The Laura Mercier Stickgloss is a hybrid of both a gloss and a lipstick combing the best of both products and leaving out what I sometimes tend to dislike about each product. Another benefit to this product is that it is also hydrating and therefore is able to combine a lip balm into this product. This sounds too good to be true so let's check it out fully.

The Laura Mercier website gives this as the official description of the lip product, "Laura Mercier Stickgloss cares for your lips while delivering colour in a sheer and sophisticated finish. Part Lip Balm, part Lip Colour, and part Lip Glace. Provides a sheer wash of colour, creates dimension, and adds fullness to the lips. Ultra hydrating and longer wearing than a traditional Lip Glace". I just love it!

I tried this product out at the Laura Mercier counter and I must say that I am very impressed with it so far. The consistenty of the product is on the softer side and is less waxy than I have found other lipsticks to be. The colour is sheerer than a traditional lipstick shade and just gives a slight tint of color that I found to be quite flattering. It hydrated relatively well, it is isn't a good as a traditional potted lip balm but it hydrates more than the usual sticks or glosses.

Here is a list of the colors that this product is available in...

- Azalea - soft berry pink

- Baked Earth - warm brown red

- Black Orchid - neutral black cherry

- Brown Sugar - wearable brown pink

- Courtisane - mauve rose pink

- Cranberry - red plum

- Maple - earthy red

- Patchouli - neutral brown

- Peony - deep aubergine plum
- Plum - soft violet pink

- Pomegranate - yellow brown red

- Poppy - bright coral rose

- Purple Haze - vivacious plum

- Quartz - bronze rose shimmer

- Rosewater - soft sheer pink

- Tiger Lily - golden peachy pink

My two favorite shades are the Black Cherry and the Rosewater shades. The Black Cherry is the perfect black red stain that leaves the coveted "just bitten" effect without the use of a messy stain. The Rosewater shade is a great shade to wear every day and is very flattering to my paler skintone. This shades will also complement all the dramatic eye makeup looks that I have been trying out lately.

photo courtesy of Laura Mercier

Bath and Body Works Holiday Traditions

The other day, I went into my local Bath and Body Works expecting to find tons of Yuletide cheer and the entire store decorated for the Holidays. Well, the company must have changed their vision a bit for this season because the majority of the new items for Holiday don't come out until the very beginning of November. Pretty much, the store was decorated with the emphasis on the Fall based fragrances that are found in their Signature Collection. This was not quite what I was looking forward to.

However, I came across a table with their Holiday Traditions body products already out on them so what I was looking for was at least available in the store that day. You may remember from last year, that I stocked up on both Vanilla Bean Noel and Winter Candy Apple products and I still have many of those bought as spares left over. This year, I am more interested in smelling the two new fragrances that they released instead of purchasing more of the above mentioned two fragrances.

As a reminder to anyone that may not have smelled Vanilla Bean Noel or Winter Candy Apple before, I will put in brief descriptions of them before going onto my thoughts of the two newest fragrances. Vanilla Bean Noel is a blend of fresh vanilla bean, warm caramel, and rich, comforting cream. Winter Candy Apple is a blend of crisp apple, candied orange, and rich cinnamon spice. Now onto the two newest fragrances.

The first of the two new Holiday Traditions is called Yultide Pear Vanilla and this is the one that I was most excited for going into the store. This fragrance is a blend of poached pear, winter quince, toasted marshmellow, and vanilla sugar. With the description, I envisioned this fragrance as a slightly fruiter Vanilla Bean Noel with a a couple more layers of complexity. However, I found this fragrance to be a generic fruity/sweet fragrance that had little depth or staying power. I was very unhappy with this one.

The second of the two new fragrances is called Festive Vanilla Fig and I wasn't really interested in this fragrance at all, even to begin with. Brown Sugar and Fig always smelled like dirt on me and I don't really like the fig note in general. This fragrance blends fresh fig nectar, poached peach, vanilla extract, and decadant rum drizzle. I really didn't like one either, I found it to be very generic. It was mostly fruity with a little bit of spicy note.

I wish that I had liked those fragrances more because I am so happy that this year Bath and Body Works decided to ditch the glitter that clogged up all the shower gels last year. I guess tat I could stock up on Vanilla Bean Noel and Winter Candy Apple but I really have no interest or need to do that.

photo courtesy of Bath and Body Works

Urban Decay Book of Shadows Vol. II

At the end of the last year, one of the most popular products that came out for the Holiday season was Urban Decay's Book of Shadows, a collection of many of their most popular shadows in a beautiful box with all the needed accessories. Since this product was such a hit, it is not a shock that Urban Decay will be releasing a follow up to that product this season. This product, like the first one, will contain shades that are unique to this palette and therefore give even the most die-hard Urban Decay shadow collectors a reason to rebuy this palette. Eigth new shades are certainly exciting to me and honestly allow me to overlook that fact that I am sure that I already own some of the re-releases in this palette.

This is how Urban Decay describes this new set, "Like a sequel to a great novel that you were sorry to see end, Book of Shadows is back with Volume II to captivate us once again. The largest and most unique palette we offer, Vol. II is stocked with 16 shadows (including 8 exclusive to this set, travel size 24/7 Eye Pencils in Zero and Bourbon, and a mini genie bottle of Eye Shadow Primer Potion. The mix of shadows includes shimmers and glitters, neutrals and brights. Build about just any look you can imagine!"

Here are the new and exclusive shades only in this palette...

- AC/DC - deep eggplant shimmer

- Nylon - champagne sparkler

- Mushroom - taupey-gunmetal

- Sphynx - pink sparkle/shimmer

- Jinx - bright blue shimmer

- Homegrown - bright green shimmer

- Misdemeanor - deep teal sparkle

- Perversion - matte black

Here are the existing/best-selling shades included in this set...

- Sellout - pink champange shimmer

- Gunmetal -gunmetal grey with silver glitter

- Ecstasy - bright purple with slight pink tint

- Midnight Cowboy Rides Again - golden beige with bronze, gold, and silver glitter

- Twice Baked - brownie brown with gold glitter

- Half Baked - subtle, lustrous bronze

- Flipside - electric teal with blue sheen
- YDK - bronzed mocha with golden microglitter

I also love that this palette includes a very nice sized mirror and a look book to help the users work with all of the brighter shades. As far as I am concerned, this would make a great purchase for yourself or a fantastic gift to unwrap in the upcoming holidays. For myself, even though I already own a couple of the best-selling shades but I am certainly willing to own a back up of these shades. Honeslt, hanving the back up will be more than fine for myself since these are shades that I know that i will be using more than once of twice.

I hope Urban Decay makes an entire series of these books...

photo courtesy of Urban Decay

MAC Magic, Mirth, and Mischief - Part 3

The last part of the MAC Holiday Collection is the two groups of products that involve charities in which MAC is very active in supporting and is well regarded for their continous support. I would hope that these are the groups of products that sell the best and I know that personally I will be trying to give as many of these items with my gifts as I can.

The first group is my favorite of the two. It is called Miracles Happen VIVA GLAM. "We believe in miracles large and small, and your support all these years fills us with the joy of knowing you do too! Our VIVA GLAM Lip Kit is perfect for giving in so many ways - every cent of the purchase price goes to the MAC AIDS Fund".

Miracles Happen VIVA GLAM Lip Kit - Our lip compact features a dynamic trio: VIVA GLAM V and VI Lipsticks and VIVA GLAM V Lip Gloss. Packed ready for giving in a sleek, square silvery-pewter compact decorated with a VIVA GLAM-toned dot pattern. Every cent of its purchase price goes to the MAC AIDS Fund to help support men, women, and children living with HIV/AIDS.

- VIVA GLAM V - neutral pink with pearl (Lustre)

- VIVA GLAM VI - warm terracotta-plum fusion with subtle pearl (Lustre)

- VIVA GLAM V - neutral pink with pearl

The second group of charity based products is Kids Helping Kids. "These are not your usual "holiday" cards, but kaleidoscopic expressions of hope, to be used whenever the spirit moves you, year-round. Little creative explosions of Magic, Mirth, and Mischief - we defy you not to smile!"

Kids Helping Kids x 6 Holiday Cards - These are not you usual "holiday" cards, but kaleidoscopic expressions of hope, to be used whenever the spirit moves you, year-round. Little creative explosions of Magic, Mirth, and Mischief - we defy you not to smile!

Kids Helping Kids x 12 Gift Tags - This set of 12 gift tags brillantly conveys the message of hope of the long-standing MAC Kids Helping Kids program. Use throughout the year for holidays and special occasions. All illustrated by children, for children affected by HIV/AIDS everywhere, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to paediatric AIDS/HIV organizations. Available December through June.

That VIVA GLAM palette has my name written all over, I want both one for myself and to give it out to all of my friends. And the fact that I can help charities with it makes me even happier.

photo courtesy of MAC

MAC Magic, Mirth, and Mischief - Part 2

The second part of the MAC new Holiday products are makeup bags filled with either makeup or brush collections. These bags promise to seel out quickly and be highly treasured by all those lucky enough to get their hands on one.

The first sub collection of bags is the Lip and Eye Bags. "The Fete Set needs their party favours - little pick-me-ups and help-me-alongs that keep the swish in swing, the glamour going all night long. High-tone metallic bags for Lips and Eyes, everything you need to make mirth, all in one place".

House of Mirth Deep Lip Bag - Deep and mirthfully rich, this lip kit features Fantasia Lipstick, Cedar Lip Pencil, and Get Rich Quick Dazzleglass. Comes in a small, stylish rectangular makeup bag of polished silvery-pewter vinyl, the zip adorned with a round bead and grosgrain ribbon detail. Limited Edition.

- Fantasia - deep rose (Lustre)

- Get Rich Quick - warm yellow brown

- Cedar - soft muted pinkish-beige

Put a Spell On You Pink Lip Bag - Pink puts a spell on you, and with its trio of Dream Lipstick, Dervish Lip Pencil, and Baby Sparks Dazzleglass, this lip kit is no different. Comes in a small, stylish rectangular makeup bag of polished silvery-pewter vinyl, the zip adorned with a round bead and grosgrain ribbon detail. Limited Edition.

- Dream - dirty pink with intense pearl (Glaze)

- Baby Sparks - pale pink with violet pearl

- Dervish - low-key mauve

Naughty Noir Eye Bag - Going naughty, the full noir, this eye kit features Shimmertime Pigment, Blacktrack Fluidline, Zoomblack Zoom Lash, and the 209SE Eye Liner Brush. Comes in a small, stylish rectangular makeup bag of polished silvery-pewter vinyl, the zip adorned with a round bead and grosgrain ribbon detail. Limited Edition.

- Shimmertime - peachy pale shimmer

- Blacktrack - solid flat black

Alakazam! Chocolate Eye Bag - Sparkling and spellbinding, this eye kit features Melon Pigment, Rich Ground Fluidline, Zoomblack Zoom Lash, and the 209SE Eye Liner Brush. Comes in a small, stylish rectangular makeup bag of polished silvery-pewter vinyl, the zip adorned with a round bead and grosgrain ribbon detail. Limited Edition.

- Melon - soft bright golden peach

- Rich Ground - reddened coco with frost

The second group is called the Brush Bags. "The Magician's tricks are all in the bag - a sleight of hand that provokes the question, "How did you do that?" The answers have been gathered together in three different techniques, with three different effects. All sparkle with the decorative shine of the season".

Morning, Noon, and Knight Everything Eye Brushes - An exclusive kit of five key brushes: 194SE, 204SE, 224SE, 266SE, and 275SE in a small, rectangular makeup bag of polished silvery-pewter vinyl, the zip adorned with a round bead and grograin ribbon. Limited Edition.

Do-The-Trick Buff and Line Brushes - An exclusive kit of five key buff-and-line brushes: 168SE, 187SE, 209SE, 219SE, and 252SE in a small, rectangular makeup bag of polished silvery-pewter vinyl, the zip adorned with a round bead and grosgrain ribbon. Limited Edition.

Wave of a Wand Sweep and Define Brushes - An exclusive kit of five key brushes: 129SE, 190SE, 212SE, 227SE, and 275SE in a small, rectangular makeup bag of polished silvery-pewter vinyl, the zip adorned with a round bead and grosgrain ribbon. Limited Edition.

Another group of collections where I every single new item. I would say that one item that I want the most is the Pink lip bag (of course) and I do know someone who I am betting the Eye Brush Bag will make very happy. It looks to me as if the makeup products are the full sizes but I can't really tell from the pictures if the brush sets are so i guess I will need to see them all in person. I need to get myself to the MAC counter very soon.

photo courtesy of MAC

MAC Magic, Mirth, and Mischief - Part 1

Well, here we go with the new items that are coming out this Holiday season. I am totally not ready to start Christmas shopping or anything of the sort but the products are out, so it's time to start looking at them. Maybe, just maybe, looking at Christmas products early will force to me to start my Christmas shopping earlier and lightened up some of the stress around the season. Maybe...

The MAC collection is the first major one that I have seen released this season. This collection is huge, so I am going to break it down into several parts. All the products that I have seen so far in this collection would be a great gift for anyone or a little something special to treat yourself to. The first part of this collection is the new limited edition color palettes. Personally, I would love to find a MAC palette under my tree so I bet many other ladies would too.

Here is the description of the new collection of palettes, "Eight precociously pretty new holiday kits, presented and packaged with bubbly optimism, sophisticated and amusing as a New Yorker cartoon. Each a world of wonder, to collect and give - but only to the most delightful of the deserving".

The palettes...

Possessed by Pink! Lip Kit - Two new neutral-toned Lipsticks and Lip Gloss: Tickled, Laugh A Lot, and Sweet Smile in a sleek, square silvery-pewter compact decorated with a whimsical pattern of coloured dots on the lid, each one representing a shade from the compact's palette. Limited Edition.

- Sweet Smile - glossy midtone pink with pearl

- Laugh A Lot - creamy midtone blue (Lustre)

- Tickled - dark plum (Lustre)

Heavenly Dish Netural Lip Kit - Two new pink toned Lipsticks and Lip Gloss: Floating Lightly, Heavenly Dish, and Barely Visible in a sleek, squaresilvery-pewter compact decorated with a whimsical pattern of coloured dots on the lid, each one representing a shade from the compact's palette. Limited Edition.

- Barely Visible - glossy pale nude with pearl

- Floating Lightly - pale neutral pink beige (Lustre)

- Heavenly Dish - sheer midtone neutral pink (Satin)

6 Sorceress Eye Shadows - Say "open sesame" and enjoy six bewitching new Eye Shadows: Magnetized, Altered State, White Rabbit, Edge of Dark, Hold My Gaze, and Hypnotizing. The sleek, square silvery-pewter compact decorated with a whimsical pattern of coloured dots on the lid, each one representing a shade from the compact's palette. Limited Edition.

- White Rabbit - frosted soft white (Frost)

- Hold My Gaze - midtone cool green grey (Satin)

- Edge of Dark - Charcoal with silver pearl (Lustre)

- Magnetized - light frosted lavender (Veluxe Pearl)

- Hyponotizing - frosted greyed mauve (Frost)

- Altered State - deep forsted blue purple (Veluxe Pearl)

6 Smoke and Mirrors Eye Shadows - Create illusion with sixe new shades of Eye Shadow: Fire in Her Eyes, Black Magique, Spell No. 9, Wide-Eyed Wonder, Smoke & Mirrors, and Deception. The sleek, square silvery-pewter compact decorated with a whimsical pattern of coloured dots on the lid, each one representing a shade from the compact's palette. Limited Edition.

- Fire in Her Eyes - frost neutral beige (Frost)

- Wide-Eyed Wonder - mid frosty grey taupe (Frost)

- Black Magique - black with gold pearl (Veluxe)

- Spell No. 9 - soft muted pink beige (Satin)

- Deception - frosty golden brown (Frost)

- Smoke & Mirrors - dark chocolate brown (Satin)

6 Mystic Cool Eye Shadows - Six mystical new shades of Eye Shadow cast their spell: Cool Incantation, Shhh, Don't Tell, Blue Enchantment, Rose Potion, Deep Secret, Violet Vow. The sleek, square silvery-pewter compact decorated with a whimsical pattern of coloured dots on the lid, each one representing a shade from the compact's palette. Limited Edition.

- Cool Incantation - opalescent white gold (Frost)

- Blue Enchantment - dark frosted turquoise (Satin)

- Deep Secret - deep frosted indigo (Frost)

- Shh, Don't Tell - pale neutral pink (Satin)

- Rose Potion - midtone frosted rose (Veluxe Pearl)

- Violet Vow - deep cool brown (Satin)

6 Devil May Dare Warm Eye Shadows - To reflect the devil in you, six new daring, warm-toned shades: Dare Ya!, Devilishly Dark, Oh My Darling, Prankster, Sorcery, and Gold Tease. The sleek, square silvery-pewter compact decorated with a whimsical pattern of coloured dots on the lid, each one representing a shade from the compact's palette. Limited Edition.

- Oh My Darling - pale frosty cream (Frost)

- Dare Ya! - light frosty peachy pink (Veluxe Pearl)

- Sorcery - blackened burgundy (Satin)

- Gold Tease - frosty midtone gold (Frost)

- Prankster - midtone frosted olive (Veluxe Pearl)

- Devilishly Dark - rich brown with gold pearl (Frost)

Hocus Pocus Colourful Face Kit - An exclusive holiday compact featuring three key products for the face: Pretty Baby Beauty Powder, Peachykeen Sheertone Shimmer Blush, and Sunsparkled Pearl Beauty Powder in a sleek, square silvery-pewter decorated with a whimsical pattern of coloured dots on the lid, each one representing a shade from the compact's palette. Limited Edition.

- Pretty Baby - soft baby pink

- Sunsparkled Pearl - frost warm beige with pearl

- Peachykeen - midtone peach with pearl

Fab-racadabra Bronze Face Kit - A face compact inspired by the fab-racadabra impact of bronze. Features Golden Bronzing Powder, Sunbasque Sheertone Shimmer Blush, and Buffed & Polished Iridescent Powder/Pressed in a sleek, square silvery-pewter decorated with a whimsical pattern of coloured dots in the lid, each one representing a shade from the compact's palette. Limited Edition.

- Golden Bronze - muted gold tan with gold pearl

- Buffed and Polished - frosty bronze gold

- Sunbasque - gilded peach with pearl

There are also two more palettes that are included in the new Holiday products. This subset of the collection is called Exclusives and it contains two more limited edition palettes. "Two ways to go about giving and making sure everyone gets their minerals too! For sheer, vibrant fun, they're powerless to resist. Each its own little gem, filled with all the essentials to experience the magic of total mineralization".

Fun In The Sun Mineralize Kit - The sheer, fun-filled delight of having MAC Mineralize in a magical, square-shaped silver box. Features our Fun In The Sun slection of Shimpagne Mineralize Skinfinish, Nuance Mineralize Blush, Play on Plums Mineralize Eye Shadow (Duo), and the 181SE Mini Buffer. A series of circular perforations echoing our holiday dot pattern allow you a glimpse of our sparkling wonders within. A limited-edition MAC exclusive.

- Play on Plums - bronzed burgunday mono/peachy gold with pink and bronze veining (Frost)

- Nuance - mid tone peach with gold pearl

- Shimpagne - vintage gold gilded beige

PinkZapoppin! Mineralize Kit - All the magic of MAC Mineralize in a silverized square-shaped box. Features our PinkZapoppin! array of Light Flush Mineralize Skinfinish, Dainty Mineralize Blush, Love Connection Mineralize Eye Shadow (Duo), and the 181SE Mini Buffer. A series of circular perforations echoing out holiday dot pattern allow you a glimpse of out sparkling wonders within. A limited-edtion MAC exclusive.

- Love Connection - pale beige with gold and blue veining/warm gold mono (Frost)

- Dainty - light yellow pink with gold pearl

- Light Flush - soft pastel pink with deep bronze veining

First of all, I think every single one of these palettes would be a fantastic gift. MAC really has made a great selection of products to begin their Holiday collection. However, I do think that two of the descriptions from the lip palettes are a bit wrong but I copied them exactly as MAC presented them. And what products do I want as a gift to myself this season? Well, I want all of them except for the bronze kit! I especially want both of the lip kits and the Devil May Dare shadow palette. This is great start for MAC and for the Holidays in general.

photo courtesy of MAC

LUSH Halloween Collection

This is for all you ladies that love Halloween and are trying to put off thoughts of the upcoming Christmas season. I may not be a huge fan of Halloween but I do enjoy fall and try to put off the holidays as long as possible. This year, LUSH has made it possible to fully celebrate Halloween without ever dressing up in a costume or eating an entire basket of trick or treat candy. LUSH offers six bath and body products to celebrate Halloween and put Christmas off just a bit longer.

Here are they are...

Magic Bath Bomb - Marjoram and rose conjure up vitality and prosperity - Limited Edition. If we told that there was a surprise in this treasure, it wouldn't be a surprise any more, now would it? Magic is a 14-sided bomb that turns your bathwater a deep sapphire blue. Seen from the top, it's a hexagon, or "hex" bomb, with a blend of marjoram and rose in the shell to dissolve anxieties. Then, as the water changes color, basil and peppermint oils swirl in your tub to brong you growth, vitality, and energy. When the sprig of parsley inside floats free, prosperity looms.

Witch's Ball Bubble Bar - A bubbling cauldron with a magical blend of reviving herbs - Limited Edition. Clear mental blocks with this mystical bubble bar filled with rosemary, sage, peppermint, frankincense, myrrh, and benzoin. Deep fuschia like the very edge of sunset, Witch's Ball is a bewitching mixture studded with star anise seedpods, cloves, blackcurrants, and cranberries. Bathe in its brew of essential oils as often as you can before its disappears at the end of the year, making resolutions as you bathe.

(The Great) Pumpkin Soap - Our spicy Fall soap warms you up when you're chilled to the bone - Limited Edition. This limited edition soap is pumpkin-colored and shaped affair with a scent with a scent borrowed from our lovely and rejuvenating Spice Curls. So endearing that the headless horseman has tried to steal it for himself to wear around town! It's only around for Halloween so get yours before All Hallows Eve.

Ghost Shower Gel - Spiritually uplifting & shimmery - Limited Edition. Let the scent of this beautiful, floral shower gel lessen your fears of the supernatural. Made with rose and dove orchid infusions, Ghost first made an appearance in 2007 and now its back to haunt us. Translucent, lovely, and only around for a moment, Ghost merits a photograph or no one will believe that it really existed. All the will remain is soft skin and the fragrance of lilies.

Jacko Bath Bomb - You'll be haunted by this spicy fragrance long after your bath - Limited Edition. The ultimate ghoulish goodie after a night of trick or treating: drop this super limited edition pumpkin shaped bath bomb in your tub and soak this hollow's eve with the spicy scent of clove bud and spearmint.

Cobweb Bath Bomb - Tantalizing black sugar bath bomb to calm you down after a night of frights - Limited Edition. Drop this bomb into your bath for a soothing and fruity bath with our ever popular black pearl scent. Shaped like a cobweb and dusted with sparkle, the lavender and chamomile will calm, while the blackcurrant adds a touch of fruitiness. This small but mighty bomb is a major stress reliever (as long as you're not scared of spiders).

The only product that I would get from this little collection is the Ghost Shower Gel. I am not that big a fan of super spicy fragrances and with my luck, I would end up getting a reaction from all the products with spices in them.

Time to celebrate Halloween and fall! Eat some candy corn and watch the Charlie Brown Halloween special!

photo courtesy of LUSH

YSL Parisienne

YSL Parisienne is new fragrance that was just released this season and as soon as I heard about it, it quickly went all the way up to the top of my shopping list. Why? Well, the one of the middle notes is rose and the perfume is pink. Those are two every simple reasons that allow me to get interested in a perfume but since I am super-picky about my rose fragrances, it needs to have a bit more than just a pretty pink color to maintin my interest.

I have never used a fragrance from YSL before so I didn't really know what to expect when I smelled this fragrance. I have sniffed fragrances from this company before but since I have never bought any of them and therefore never really wore them, this fragrance is my first major encounter with the fragrances from this company. Sephora classified this fragrance as a floral, plain and simple.

The fragrance is described as, "The essence of a woman who is incredibly free - she is not from Paris, but Paris adopts her. She knows how to love, how to live. Parisienne is the fragrance of ultra-femininity and sensuality, built with notes of blackberry, damask rose, and sandalwood. The grand floral with a woody structure is luminous even in its mystery".

The marketing campaign for this fragrance contains Kate Moss, who had at one point released her own rose fragrance that never really took off. However, I do think that she is beautiful in these ads and adds to the allure of this fragrance.

On first sniff, this fragrance was much sweeter than I had thought that it was going to be, which I attribute to the blackberry note (assuming this is a top note) and then the rose note develops and the sweetness fades a little bit. The sandalwood note than becomes more prominent and helps the fragrance to linger throughout the day, intensifying the rose middle note. I feel that this fragrance would be better suited to the colder months because the sandalwood can make it quite strong on certain people.

This fragrance is very different than many of the rose fragrances that I already own and therefore makes it worthy to purchase. It really excites me that this season, I have already seen two fragrances that take my favorite rose note and turn it into something totally different than the norm. I now have more reasons to purchase rose perfumes and monay of these new fragrances will appeal to someone who isn't already a giant fan of rose notes.

photo courtesy of Sephora

Giorgio Armani Fall 2009 Collection - Manta Ray

The newest collection is from Giorgio Armani is called Manta Ray. Aside from the fact that this is fall based collection and therefore will most likely contain one or more of the major fall trends, the name of this collection gives nothing away about what the collection will look like or what type of shades it will contain.

Let's look at what this company is offering...

Manta Ray Eye Duo - Inspired by the precious and luxurious materials used in Giorgio Armani fashion accessories, the palettes offer a beautiful selection of color harmonies inspired by nature. The collection features subtle hues that offer a new take on the timeless color "Greige" created by Giorgio Armani. The rich filtered eye tones presented in a matte Greige compact, give depth and mystery to the eyes with subtle contours and highlights.

- N.1 Charcoal and Greige - the ultimate eye shadow combination for this season's smoky eye

- N.2 Deep Ocean Blue and Intense Ocean Green

- N.3 Pale Lilac Grey and Luminous Fushcia

- N.4 Light Blue Stone and Sandy Beige

- N.5 Shimmering Lilac Pearl and Pale Green Pearl

Manta Ray Liquid Silk Eye Liner - The formula, which contains microdispersed waxes and micro-fil polymer, boosts the deep intense color and ensures a long-lasting, quick-drying application.

- 1 Midnight Metallic Blue

- 2 Matte Charcoal

Sheer Blush - Extremely soft and light, Sheer Blush enhances the complexion with a flush of natural color. Sculpts the face delicately and naturally. Cheeks are left with a warm, radiant glow. All skin types.

- 2 Pink

Lip Shimmer Lip Gloss - Embellish lips with this iridescent, sparkling gloss. Lavishes lips with a sultry veil of color. Leaves a shimmering, elegant finish. Paint your lips with the precise brush applicator.

- 1 Peach

- 2 Warm Peach

- 7 Raspberry

- 9 Shimmer Pink

- 16 Dusty Pink

- 21 Pink Greige

- 22 Golden Champagne

- 26 Dark Rose

- 45 Sandy Beige

- 48 Dark Brown

- 56 Golden Coral

- 57 Ivory Beige

- 58 Indian Red

- 59 Frozen Beige

Armanisilk Lipstick - Multi-faceted creamy color provactively clings to the curves of your lips for luxurious, lasting comfort. An exceptional blend of Micro silk powders creates a sensual, finely woven veil of rich color that glides onto the lips - dressing them like silk.

- 2 Grapefruit

- 3 Fushcia

- 6 Rose

- 7 Dusty Rose

- 10 Cranberry

- 12 Pomegranate

- 14 Red Coral

- 16 Champagne

- 17 Mocha

- 18 Mauve

- 20 Red-Orange

- 22 Frozen Coral

- 23 Rose

- 24 Coral

- 27 Pink Latte

- 28 Rose Toffee

- 30 Deep Raspberry

- 55 Latte

- 92 Deep Plum

- 93 Mauve Rose

Okkkkk...I am failing to see the connection of these products and shades to create a collection. The Manta Ray Eye Shadow makes sense but I don't get what type of lip look the company is recommending to go with eye looks. I am a bit on the confused side about what I am to be getting out of this collection. I really like the N. 1 duo and I would love to get it but I am not really feeling much else from this collection yet.

photo courtesy of Giorgio Armani

Philosophy Autumn Treats

Philosophy has released a couple of new bath and body products for the fall season, called Autumn Treats. This company turned several autumn favorites into yummy smelling body products for you to love all season long. I tend to sometimes have a problem with fall-type body fragrances because very often they are too spicy for my tastes and can irritate my skin. However, these seem to be more on the sweet and foody side and hopefully will fit the bill for me.

First, the new fragrances offered in 3 in 1s. The first one is called I Love Candy Corn and is both scented and colored like candy corn. This one is perfect for Halloween and should hit the stop for anyone who loves to smell like candy. They are also offering a Black Licorice scent which promises to be on the stronger and spicy side. The last fall scent that they offer in the 3 in 1 collection is Caramel Apple. Initially, I was the most excited fo this one because caramel apples are my favorite fall treat. I was hoping for the perfect blend of the two fragrances but this scent is more on the caramel side. I still really like it though, it is just a bit sweeter than I expected.

Philosophy offers two gift sets in this collection. The first one is called Trick or Treat and is a duo of two smaller sized 3 in 1s. It contains the Caramel Apple scent that we discussed in the paragraph above and a Pumpkin Spic Muffin scent that doesn't appear to be sold by itself. The second giftset is called The Haunted House and contains small 3 in 1 in Caramel Apple, Pumpkin Spice Muffin, and Black Licorice. This set is housed in a cute little box that looks like an actual haunted house.

The last item in this collection is a Caramel Apple flavored Lip Shine. This lip gloss has a high-shine finish and promises to enhance the natural lip shade, so I assume that it has a bit of a reddish tint to it.

Philosophy always knows exactly how to get me to spend tons of money of their collections every single season. I really want the Candy Corn and Caramel Apple 3 in 1s and the Caramel Apple Lip Shine. I am so excited to celebrate fall with these fragrances!

photo courtesy of Philosophy

Givenchy Fall 2009 Collection - Les Poetiques

The fall collections that I have left to look at are winding down but I still have a couple more to complete the season, Today, we are going to look at Givenchy's latest offerings for this season. I have to admit that while I usually love everything I see at the Givenchy counter, I somehow never ending buying all that much from the company. I think that it is due in fact to my Urban Decay-itis (as I have now coined the term. So let's see what this company has in store for us for this season.

The description of the both the collection and the inspiration for the collection are rather long and quite detailed. "From wintery winds to the winds of time, echoing melancholy's mire, beauty emerges so sublime, painting a landscape of desire. At conformity, the mind rebels, yields to emotions running raw, in romantic dreams, elatedly dwells; why live, if not under passion's law? Just as fireworks need darkness to give birth to color, Romantics use shadows to exalt their passions, and let flowers grow. Born of winter and universal black, my 2009 autmumn-winter collection exhibits its uncontrolled sensibilities and the strength of its passions. Poetically, it borrows from the natural and enhances it with mystery. The dream emerges...a bed of roses...a stormy night...a first kiss...in a watercolour of emotions. Each woman has her mood, and each day, its surprise. Like feelings that "flood" the face, "Les Poetiques" naturally reveals the high-romance feminity of the Givenchy Woman. Each passion, and each woman, is unique." This description comes from the creator of the collection, Nicolas Degennes.

First thoughts? I love very pretty romantic makeup and I am getting pretty excited to look at the products in this collection.

Here we go...

Gloss Poetique - Limited Edition. The key to this poetic narrative is a romantic pink. A touch of dark mystery for feminine and romantic lips...Gloss Poetique, a pink gel in a black case, creates natural-looking lips, one of the collection's must-haves. Once seen out of it's black jar, this mysterious pink, crystalline gel, as soft as a caress, blossoms like the rose celebrated by the poets. The transparent pink "Poetique Rose", the collection's "flush of colour" enhances the natural hue of the lips by reacting to the natural pH level. Gel, translucent, and crystal-clear shiny texture, soft and melting, non sticky and gliding. Lips are glossy and naturally colored for a "bitten lips" effect.

Prismissime Eyes No. 58 Poetique Blues - Limited Edition. If, as poets say, eyes are the mirrors to the soul, Prismissime Eyes will capture it. Pink is painted into two iridescent harmonies having in common the most romantic hue: a soft and tender pink, in shaded hues ranging of fanciful hues N. 58 Poetique Blues. Nine pans of three shades each offer an inifinite number of looks, from the softest to the stormiest. Softness and lightness go here with comfort. Pearly, soft, and creamy texture for a long lasting comfort to your Eyes.

Prismissime Eyes No. 59 Poetique Browns - Limited Edition. If, as poets say, eyes are the mirrors to the soul, Prismissime Eyes will capture it. Pink is painted into two iridescent harmonies having in common the most romantic hue: a soft and tender pink, in shaded hues ranging of fanciful hues ranging from lyrical browns N. 59 Poetique Browns. Nine pans of three shades each offer an inifinite number of looks, from the softest to the stormiest. Softness and lightness go here with comfort. Pearly, soft, and creamy texture for a long lasting comfort to your Eyes.

Phenomen Eyes Limited Edition - High precision - Panoramic mascara - Perfectly curled and separated lashes. The ultimate touch for a passionate look, imbued with mystery and sensuality. The new shade for this collection is called No. 4 Poetique Grey Lavender. Givenchy's "star" mascara comes in a new shade, a black tinged with grey-blue. A tempestuous colour to soften and emphasize the eyes. Eyes are intensified with a dark but soft shade.

Parad Eyes Liner Limited Edition - Fluid eyeliner. For a look enhanced with just a line...The new shade for this collection is called No. 5 Poetique Grey Lavender. A new one shot shade: an elegant luminous blue, with blue mother-of-pearl, perfectly matching the Phenomen Eyes Limited Edition. Eyes are underlined for a more seductive look.

Rouge Interdit Limited Edition - Satin lipstick. Irresistable color. When your lips become an inspiration for a passionate poem. The new shade for this collection is called No. 45 Poetique Iris, a new limited edition shade: a highly romantic light bluish pink. The pink color of your lips is highlighted yet natural.

Rouge Interdit Shine Limited Edition - Ultra-shiny lipstick. A touch of shine...for a touch of passion! The new shade for this collection is called No. 23 Poetique Camelia, a delicate coral pink with a thin white mother-of-pearl. Lips are delicately colored with a sparkling and feminine pink.

Prisme Libre Limited Edition - Air sensation loose powder quartet. A new tender hamony which embodies softness and evanescence. The new shade for this collection is calledNo. 75 Poetique Orchid, an apricot, pink, yellow, and white...a rose bouquet with soft and tender petals, quartet accentuates and enhances your porcelain glow. A porcelain complexion, natural and luminous.

Wow! This collection reminds me a lot of A Rose Romance from MAC, which turned out to be my favorite makeup collection of the entire year so far. This collection could be a very close second to that one. The two items that I want the most are the Gloss Poetique and the Prismissime Eyes in the browns. I would also like both of the new limited edition lipstick shades and I am interested in trying the Prisme Libre loose powder. I already love the Phenomen Eyes mascara but I prefer all of my mascaras to be black so I will passing on this one.

I love this collection, pinks and roses suit me perfectly!

photo courtesy of Givenchy

DuWop Fall 2009 Collection

DuWop is brand that I only associate with one type of product - lip plumper. Lip Venom is the only item that I have ever used from this company and I do admit that I often walk right past this mini little counter at Sephora. But with the release of Twilight Venom, I got myself reinterested in this company and wondered what other products than lip plumper that they have to offer.

For this fall, they have only released four new products, three for the lips and one for the face. But since I have been on a lip product kick lately, this doesn't bother me that much. And on first glance, I do see a red lipstick so I bet that I will find something that I want in this little collection. The first product that was released this fall was Twilight Venom, which we looked at mcuh earlier in the summer so I will quickly discuss it and then go onto the other products in the collection.

Here they are...

Twilight Venom - Be transformed. Let the alchemy transcend. Twilight Venom is not your typical DuWop Venom. Instead of a gloss, Twilight Venom is a shimmering crimson lip stain suspended in a venom-laced liquid lip conditioner with a super potent bite (watch out!), and contains argan, avocado, olive oils, and Vitamin E. This product should be shaken before use to represent the blending of the human and vampire worlds and applied repeatedly until lips are plumped, revitalized, and the desired intensity of color has been reached.

Lipmousse - Experience the bold lip color of DuWop's NEW Lipmousse. A cross between a gloss and a lipstick, this creamy, lightweight formula packs staying power with a punch of satiny power. The unique showerhead applicator dispenses drops of shea butter-infused color that hydrates long after the first use. Hydro-attracting powdered silicone consisting of two interlacing polymer networks absorbs water and swells, creating a mousse-like look and feel. The super absorbant formula also creates an optical blurring effect that diminishes the appearence of fine lines and wrinkles in the lips. Often times, in order to get intense coverage, there is an element of thickness that needs to exist. Lipmousse gives a long-lasting look without waxy buildup, creating a powerful burst of color, but is still sheer enough to see the beauty of the lips that lie underneath.

- Baked Apple - midtone brown red

- Creme Brulee - midtone nude

- Cupcake - bright blue pink

- Ganache - deep red

- Sorbet - pale pink

- Tart - midtone magenta

Private Red - DuWop has unlocked something new! Private Red, a color-changing lipstick that morphs into each woman's personal red, is the first of its kind to transform a single red shade into an endless variety of hues. This silky lipstick goes on smooth, and the rich pigment changes within five minutes to leave behind the ultimate perfect red. Private Red's proprietary formula includes a blend of three naturally-derived pigments - annatto, hibiscus, and henna - and the technology behind the classic "mood lipsticks" of the seventies to provide a vibrant red shade that adapts to suit each individual's coloring. Annatto lends a rich pigment base, while hibiscus flowers offer gentle antiseptic properties, and henna leaves behind a long-lasting stain. Additional hydrating ingredients such as beeswax, castor oil, and Vitamin E keep the lip color lightweight and emollient. Red is a stunning classic but it can be the hardest to wear. Private Red offers a provactive answer to the question, "What is my best shade of red?" without the hassle of selecting the perfect shade from amongst an endless sea of choices.

Primerstone - Get primed for beautiful skin with DuWop's NEW Primerstone. A one-of-a-kind development in the world of primers, Primerstone is a pressed-powder based, SPF 15 primer that evens out skintone, reduces pores, and creates a clean, receptive canvas for foundation application. Primerstone contains laricyl, a mushroom extract that acts a gentle astringent, minimizes pores, and provides long-lasting hydration. Platinum in the product works to stimulate cell turnover, as electrons transfer between the platinum in the powder and the natural metal ions found in the skin. Platinum's light scattering effect also helps to reduce wrinkles. Other ingredients zinc, magnesium, and mica allow for compatibility with both mineral-based and liquid foundations. Metallic elements help give the powder heft and the fine-milled texture bonds seamlessly to the skin's surface. Foundation applied over this canvas will have more staying power. Makeup artists have long known that a light dusting of translucent powder BEFORE applying foundation allows for smoother application and a reduction in the appearance of enlarged pores. Now, Primerstone makes this ameup trick available to wveryone, with the added benefits of SPF 15! Foundation applied over this canvas will have more staying power. Primerstone is available in one universally flattering shade.

The perfect red lipstick?! I am on the bandwagon with this product! I have been red lipstick fan for the past few months and this sounds as though it could be the end-all for red lipsticks. I think that I will either fall madly in love with this lipstick or I will be very disappointed in the shade that it turns my lips. Either way, I must try this product. I would also like to try the Primerstone and the Lipmousse in Creme Brulee and Ganache. Time to look past the lip plumper...

photo courtesy of DuWop

Caudalie Gentle Cleanser

It's that time of the year...the seasons are changing and along with them so is my skin. I have gone from battling an oily T-zone to my skin being so dry that it hurts if I do not put some form of moisturizer on practically as soon as I get out of the shower. I have switched over from my foaming face washes to something that is much gentler and helps to hydrate my skin before I even get out of the shower. And of course, my latest face wash choice is from Caudalie. At this point, it is safer to assume that whatever I choose will be from this fantastic company.

My latest choice from them for skincare is the Gentle Cleanser. This is a creamy wash that doesn't foam at all and feels great on the skin. The general description of the product from the Sephora website is here, "Velvety gentle fluid cleanser for all skin types, including sensitive". Here is the more detailed description, "Leaves the skin clean, soft, free of impurities and makeup, and protected against free radicals. Skin regains clarity and health and is perfectly prepared to absorb the benefits of skincare appiled afterwards".

This product has some great benefits to it. It indeed leaves my skin soft and supple and doesn't dry it out in the least bit. It doesn't irritate my sensitive skin and has a very mild fragrance to it. It rinses cleaner than other cream cleansers that I have used in the past. I also love the packaging. I love the pump bottle and one single pump dispenses the perfect amount of product for me to clean my entire face.

The only major downside to this product is that I don't feel that it fully lives up to its claim of removing all traces of makeup from the skin. After I get out of the shower, I do need to use a hydrating toner in order to get all the remains of my Make Up Forever HD Foundation off ot my skin. However, I must add that this foundation is on the harder side to remove so perhaps any cleanser that is on the more gentle side would not be able to fully get it all off.

But, putting the makeup removal claim to the side, I love this product. I am very with how it doesn't dry out or irritate my skin. And especially how it doesn't make my facial redness worse (as I have found that many face cleansers do). As with any product from Caudalie, this cleanser is formulated from natural ingredients and paraben-free. Another win from Caudalie!

photo courtesy of Sephora

Guerlain Fall 2009 Collection - Volga Princess

Guerlain has finally posted their new collection for the fall on their website. Never mind that I feel like I saw it at Saks well over a month ago and I have no clue why they finally just posted it up on their site. Seriously, I have been checking for it for several weeks now. The whole collection consists of only four products that create the usual fall look that we have seen in every collection so far. The collection is called Volga Princess and is based on Russia before the Revolution.

Here is the new collection...

Eyes and Lips Palette - An opulent palette, as fiery as a sunset over the Volga River. An exquisite makeup palette for the eyes and lips held in a black velvet suedine pouch. Perfect for a complete make-up look in hues of soft taupe and delicate pink.

Ombre Eclat Four Shades - Limited Edition Fall 2009. All the flamboyant of an autumnal palace. A richly decorated palette with shimmering shades. The shades in this palette were inspired by the sumptuous dresses of Eastern princesses. Faded orange, brick red, old rose, and aubergine are dappled with a champagne motif, contained in an exquistely designed black-and-gold compact. The tsarina's eyes take on a velvet-smooth, crimson glow highlighting their pure clarity.

Russian Doll Radiant Blush - A liquid blush for rosy, velvey cheeks: like a breeze caressing the steppes. Guerlain creates Russian Doll, a liquid blush with a unuqie shade of luminous, sheer pink that generates natural radiance. Thanks to its kaolin-based formula, this cream-gel emulsion is easy to apply and dries within seconds.

KissKiss Baby Delicate Nudes - Nourishing lip balm - Delicate Nudes SPF 10. KissKiss Baby, the new edition to the KissKiss family, combines makeup with skincare. Just like a balm, it nourishes the lips and enhances their beauty. Enriched with wild mango butter and luffa oil, it keeps skin moisturized, soft, and supple. But that's not all. KissKiss Baby also offers an SPF 10 to protect lips against sun damage. It's rich creamy texture allows for easy and comfortable application. Six sheer, natural shades give a smooth, satin-like finish.

- Cristal Nude 200 - clear

- Red Nude 220 - sheer red

- Honey Nude 240 - sheer nude

- Rosewood Nude 241 - sheer brown rose

- Romantic Nude 260 - sheer pink

- Rosy Nude 261 - sheer rose

This is yet another collection where I really love every single product in it. However, I think the one product that gets me the most excited in the liquid blush. I have been told that I look really good with a brighter pink on my cheeks and that I can pull the "snow bunny" look off very well especially right after I darken my brown hair. Also the new Ombre Eclat really does not disappoint. I feel that in almost every collection, this is always one of Guerlain's strongest product offerings and this collection continues that tradition.

photo courtesy of Guerlain

Philosophy The Bake Shoppe

Philosophy making products that smell like they belong in a bakery?! Now there's a new one! Not that I should be saying much of anything since as fast as they turn out fragrances that are full of bakery goodness, it is as fast as I develop new lemmings for them and end up purchasing most to all of them. I think that company has me pretty much tapped...

Sephora describes the product generally as, "A seriously sweet bath and body set inspired by the best baked goods." The more detailed description is right here. "Leave room for a bake shop dessert in your bath and shower routine! Not only does this ensemble satisfy a sweet tooth, it's your recipe for a high-fomaing, multitasking lather, super-smooth skin, and sweetly glossy lips."

The set contains the following items. It contains 3 in 1 in both Pink Frosted Layer Cake and Raspberry Mousse, a lip gloss in Raspberry Mousse, and a Sweet Creamy Frosting body lotion. As far as I know right now, the only product that is not exclusive to this set is the Pink Frosted Layer Cake 3 in 1. Which I already own in the full size but of course is a fragrance that I can't get enough of and would be more than happy to have a small size of for travel.

Mmmmm bakery treats...yummy.

photo courtesy of Philosophy

Stila Fall 2009 Collection - Barbie Loves Stila

Stila's latest collection is yet another Barbie based collection. Apparently the spring Barbie collection was so strong for this company that they decided to capitalize on the success of that theme and do it again. And after the year that Stila has had, i can't say that I blame then for returning to tried and true ways. I myself prefer tried and true to wild and crazy and 'let's do something outlandish and hope that we make a quick buck". Ok, time for me to get off my soapbox and talk about the makeup. As Stila says, 'Get All Doll'd Up!"

Stila describes the collection as follows, "From lips to lashes, Barbie Loves Stila Fall Collection has everything you need to get all dolled up. The collection puts a new Barbie twist on iconic Stila favorites like Eye Shadows, Lip Glazes, Smudge Pots, and debuts the brand new Stay All Day Liquid Eye Liner!" Just as an aside, the Stila website has been having technical issues for the past few days so some of my information was pulled from the Sephora website and some from the Stila website. Anything that seems out of order is due to using two separate websites.

Here is the collection...

Barbie Love Stila Lip Enamel Luxe Gloss Trio - This trio of highly pigmented glosses deliver triple the mega-watt shine to make your lips three times as tempting. Infused with Rhodiola rosea, a natural extract know to induce happiness by optimizing serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain, this long-wearing luxe gloss is sure to put a smile on your face. Perfect blend of oils and phenolic compounds keep lips conditioned all day and replenishes lips' moisture levels. The luxurious formula wears for hours, and leaves lips coated in high-definition, saturated color in a stunning lacquered finish.

- Joy - red

- Happiness - pale pink

- Tickled Pink - Barbie Loves Stila exclusive hot pink

Barbie Loves Stila All Doll'd Up Palette - A must-have palette for any Stila (or Barbie) girl, each refillable compact features FOUR eye shadow trios. Twelve eye shadow shades give you endless eye looks and countless levels of glamour.

Barbie Loves Stila Liquid Liner - Finally a waterproof liquid liner that glides on with ease; won't smudge or run and stays in place until you say when! The thin marker-like tip is easy to use even for the least experienced, and delivers a defined thin line to a dramatic bold line with precision. Goes on smoothly, without skipping, smudging, or pulling, and lasts all day! Water-proof. Smudge-proof and smear-proof. Long-wearing, intense look all day with no fading or feathering. Precision marker-like tip. Easy-to-use. Intense carbon black color. Quick-drying.

Barbie Loves Stila Smudge Pot - An iconic gel-based liner and shadow in one - now with beautiful Barbie shimmer. Get the perfect dose of eye drama with Barbie Loves Stila shimmer infused Smudge Pots! The multi-tasking gel formula can be used as a liner and a shadow that stays on all day. Available in three bold of-the-moment shades: Cobalt Clutch, Purple Pumps, and Little Black Dress give you the touch of drama that we all secretly crave. The purple and blue shades will enhance eye color and in turn, make eyes look whiter and brighter. Multi-tasking formulas can be used as a liner and eye shadow and is long-wearing and smudge-proof with no flaking.

- Cobalt Clutch - vibrant blue with intense shimmer

- Little Black Dress - black with pink sparkle

- Purple Pumps - purple with pink shimmer

Well this is all I can find of the current Barbie collection on the Sephora website. I don't know if Stila offers more in this collection on their company site but since I can't get it to work, I will just write up what Sephora has to offer and hope that I am not too far off base.

Nothing in this collection pops out at me at all. The lip glazes are ok but I don't really want to haul anything which is quite a new thing for me this fall. I am just not that big a fan of really bright eye shadows and that makes most of this collection really not my style.

photo courtesy of Sephora

MAC DSquared2

MAC's latest collection to hit the stores is called DSquared2 was inspired by a cutting edge fashion house. The team of clothing designers teamed up with MAC this fall to create a color collection that is both cutting edge and put together at the same time.

From MAC, "Every season the fashion crowd is up and on the run, crazy for the fierce and sexy fun we've come to expect from designer twins Dan and Dean Caten. With their haute hi-jinx and body-beautiful clothes, a collaboration with MAC simply could NOT be avoided!"

Here we go...

DSquared2 Greasepaint Stick - A limited edition shade of the Greasepaint Stick featured in the Fall '09 DSquared2 runway collection and exclusively branded with the DSquared2/MAC logo. An eye crayon with an opalescent sparkle finish specially formulated for maximum drama. Easily provides ultra-high-level coverage. Versatile. Use as a soft but intense liner or blend out to create a smoky eye. Long-wearing. Transfer and water-resistant.

- V - bright blue violet

- B - bright yellow blue

Greasepaint Stick - A smooth and creamy black eye crayon with an opalescent sparkle finish specially formulated for maximum drama. Easily provides ultra-high-level coverage. Versatile. Use as a soft but intense liner or blend out to create a smoky eye. Long-wearing. Transfer and water-resistant.

- Black - intense black

Kohl Power Eye Pencil - A kohl pencil that has all the intensity and colour power of ultra-soft carbon. Specially formulated to provide deep, fully opaque coverage, provides an intense, smoked finish with duo-chrome pearl. Versatile in application: blend or smudge.

- Feline - rich black (Frost)

DSquared2 Lipstick - A limited edition shade of lipstick specially created for the Fall '09 DSquared2 runway collection and exclusively branded with the DSquared2/MAC logo.

- Nude Rose - sheer light neutral pink

- Blood Red - clean deep berry

DSquared2 Tinted Lip Conditioner - A lip conditioner featured in the Fall '09 DSquared2 runway collection and exclusively branded with the DSquared2/MAC logo.

- Fushcia Fix - deep pink sheen

DSquared2 Lip Erase - A flesh toned balm featured in the Fall '09 DSquared2 runway collection, exclusively branded with the DSquared2/MAC logos. Visually neutralizes and erases natural lip colour from the lip. Shine - and - texture free. Usually available at Pro stores only, this is an exclusive opportunity to try the attributes of this artist essential. Limited edition.

- Dim - for all skintones

DSquared2 Sculpt and Shape Powder - A Sculpt and Shaper Powder featured in the Fall '09 DSquared2 runway collection and exclusively branded with the DSquared2/MAC logo. Duo-shaded, provides complementary colours for highlighting and contouring facial features. Limited edition.

- Bone Beige/Emphasize - palest cream/tan

165 Tapered Cheek/Highlight Brush - Medium-sized tapered brush with soft, natural bristles. Provides perfect application and blending of powder products. Can be used to highlight the cheeks or all over the face.

The first item that popped out at me is the Lipstick in Nude Rose, this sounds like it has Holy Grail status for me. I can't wait to get this shade and if it is as great as I am hoping, I will purchase a back-up of it. Other than that, I am very curious about the Lip Erase. The pros use it to erase natural lip color so that the lipstick shde that will be layered on top of it will really pop. I predict that this one will be a sell-out. Other than that I want the Tinted Lip Conditioners, I fell in love with them during Hello Kitty and keep my eye out for them in all new collections. I would also like to get the Kohl Power Eye Pencil but I haven't really fallen in love with any of the eye products.

But hey...if I find a HG lip shade, I will consider this collection to be more than fantastic.

photo courtesy of MAC

YSL Fall 2009 Collection

YSL describes their new Fall makeup collection in only three words, "Elegant, Mysterious, Sensual". Once my first glance of this collection, it looks like their will be more dark lips and dramatic eye makeup. Let's see what this company take on the fall will be.

"Inspired by the YSL Fall RTV Fashion collection of exquiste tailoring with sumptous tailoring with sumptuous textures, a flawless complexion is offset by magnetic pearl grey eyes and intense plum lips", is the official description from YSL.

Here are the products...

Perfect Touch Radiant Brush Foundation - The first ever brush foundation, delivers a flawless finish in a simple and unique way. Great for touch-ups throughout the day. The exclusive "baby skin" complex restores the skin's optimal hydration levels and ensures perfect suppleness and radiance of new born skin. The complexion appears perfectly even, smooth, and naturally radiant from morning till night. For all skin types - non-comedogenic formula.

Touche Eclat Radiant Touch - Light, luminosity, radiance. The award-winning, must-have, take anywhere instant highlighter that banishes shadows, erases signs of fatigue and leaves your skin looking radiant. Touche Eclat is 8 hours of sleep in a pen - the one item that no woman can be without. Touche Eclat is ideal at any time of the day over bare skin, under or over foundation, creme or powder. Use this best-selling, pen-brush around the eye area, the hollow of the chin, the contour of the lips and the sides of the nose. Just slip it in your bag to ensure a brillant glow anytime, anywhere. Suitable for all skin types.

Palette Y Collector Palette for the Complexion - YSL's New Limited Edition Palette Y for the Complexion is inspired by YSL Fashion. It features the Y initial "stitched" into the powder, to give this must-have collector the allure of a true handbag accessory. Both a blush and a powder, this palette instantly highlights all skin tones. Mix both shades with a brush and apply all over the face for a transparent, even finish. The brown shade can be applied as a blush or in tiny dots on the forehead and chin.

Creme de Blush Cream Blush - This light and melting cream blush sculpts and enlivens the cheekbones for an instant healthy look. Easy to apply with the fingertips, into transforms into a powdered veil, creating a radiant, natural finish.

- #2 Powdery Rose - midtone rose

Ombres 5 Lumieres 5 Colour Harmony for Eyes - A new interpretation of the Yves Saint Laurent palette. Four matte, satiny, or iridescent eyeshadow shades coordinated around a single colour theme can be appiled alone or mixed together freely for subtle tone-on-tone looks. Create your own desired look and intensity. Eight radiant harmonies skillfully designed for a graduated approach to make-up.

- #8 Midnight - pale pink/slate grey/plum/pale white with cream black liner down the center

Volume Effect Faux Cils Luxurious Mascara - An intense look in a single stroke with our must-have industry leading mascara. The secret? The triple-film complex. A coating film for intensity, a conditioning film for curve, a fixing film for long-lasting effectiveness. Even the brush applicator combines nylon fibers of varying diameters for volume enhancement as never before.

- #8 Sublime Grey - inspired by the flannel grey seen on the YSL Fall 2009 Ready to Wear runway

Rouge Volupte Silky Sensual Radiant Lipstick SPF 15 - An object of every woman's desire, Rouge Volupte's luxurious and lush outer packaging reveals a creamy lipstick that leaves your lips nourished, feeling soft and smooth, and looking glossy and irresistible. Presented in a romantic and elegant golden metallic case, with a mirrow on top for quick and easy application throughout the day and an intricate carving of the Yves Saint Laurent logo to reveal the shade.

- #22 Exquisite Plum - deep plum

I have been lusting after these lipsticks ever since I first read about them several months but haven't bought one yet. I have been unsure of how a deep plum shade would look on me so maybe it would help if I first tried it out in a lipstick of superior quality and formulation. Other than that, I want to get the Eye Palette, I love all the shades in it and can't wait to see how they all work together. I also love the new shade of the Creme Blsuh, I am always in search of a pink cream blush that will fill the void let by Vincent Longo's Watercanvas Blush being pulled out of almost every store around me.

Love this look!

photo courtesy of YSL

Too Faced Natural Eye Neutral Eye Shadow Collection

This is one eye shadow palette that I fell in love with the second that I laid eyes on it at Sephora. The friend that I was with looked at and then looked at me and insisted to me that I already own every single one of these shades. Which really might be true but didn't diminish my wanting of this palette. This palette contains a bunhc of neutral eye shadow shades and it contains directions to show the user how to combine the shades and help create different looks with them.

The overall description of this palette from Sephora is, "An all-inclusive kit that includes nine essential shadows for all-over lid color, highlighting, smudging, and more". This is the more detailed description of the product, "The kit's contents were formulated and hand-selected by Too Faced Creative Driector, Jeerod Blandino, to create the most universally flattering eyeshadow look for any woman and for almost any occasion. The pure pigmented eyeshadow formula blends effortlessly and keeps color intense and in-place all day long. Plus, this perfectly portable palette of must-have neutral comes with a double-sided brush/sponge wand in the pull-out tray provides easy application". This product also comes with three cards that show you how to create looks an use all of the shades in the palette.

Here are the shades that are included in this palette: Heaven (matte ivory), Velvet Revolver (matte taupe), Sexspresso (matte deep brown), Silk Teddy (peach champagne shimmer), Push-Up (light bronze shimmer), Erotica (soft charcoal shimmer), Nude Beach (champage shimmer with gold glitter), Honey Pot (gold shimmer), Cocoa Puff (warm chocolate brown shimmer).

I love this palette and while I do think that I already own many of the shades in this palette, I still find it to be worth purchasing becuse I will be able to mix what I already own with many of these shades. And the look directions that they enclose will be able to be used with all the other neutrals that I already own. However, what I own is mostly shimmer shades in neutrals so working with the mattes in this palette will be a new experience for me.

photo courtesy of Sephora