Giorgio Armani Summer 2011 Collection - Heat

The summer collections are really beginning to wind down now and already I am starting to read about hints of fall in other blogs and magazines.  I just have a few collections left, I still can't believe it since we aren't even half way through the month of June.  Giorgio Armani's newest collection is named Heat, these shades are very bronzy and will work perfectly for those of us with bronze complexions.  Some of these shades might even be too bronze for the tan that I have been cultivating for the past few weeks.  Armani is very hard for me to find to begin with so I can't always just right on the bandwagon with the new products even though they are always so lovely that I would love to buy them all in a minute. 

The model for this collection is Megan Fox so that should give you all an idea of what tone of skin this collection is made for.  Her skin is deeper, more olive, and much warmer than mine so this isn't giving me much hope for this collection.  I'm afraid that both the bronzer and the cheek colors will be too deep and the lip products too warm.  The eye shadow palette is looking like it will be my best bet from this collection.  I am betting that I can skip out on much of this collection so it isn't a total disaster that it is so hard for me to find. 

Here is the new collection from Giorgio Armani Beauty...

Sheer Bronzer - Create the glow of sun-kissed skin with sheer bronzer, a soft micro-fine bronzing powder.  Copper and bronze hues warm skin, creating a sculpted glow with shimmering honey highlights.  All skin types.  Soft, micro-fine texture.  Shimmery, sun-kissed effect.  Buildable color.  Apply with the Blush Brush where light naturally hits the face across forehead, cheekbones, and temples for a healthy, radiant complexion.
- 1 Brown Sand - beige
- 2 Mauve - pink beige
- 5 Golden Sand - deep tan beige

Blushing Fabric Second Skin Blush - Premiering Blushing Fabric, a second skin blush, a new sensory experience from Armani.  Crafted as a micro-blend of pure water-soluble pigments and lacquers, this cushiony texture delivers a buildable color for cheek and face that is both impercetible and long-lasting.  Artist Tip - Squeeze a small amount to the back of your hand and apply with fingertips to the apple of your cheek.  Buff to perfection with the Blush Brush.  Blend to the desired result using your middle and pointer fingers.  For a natural bronzed glow use Sienna #4, or for more definition on your cheeks, use Raspberry #5.  Both limited edition with the Summer "Heat" look.
- Sienna #4 - warm bronze
- Raspberry #5 - deep berry rose

Heat Palette - Eye Quatuor - As seen on the show - the Armani bronze smoky eye in one signature amber palette.  Four shimmering shades of desert eye dust.  Shadows are created with unprecedented color technology, jet-milled and fine to the touch.  This extremely fine film of vibrant eye color blends perfectly to produce made to measure incandescent color without creasing or a dull powdery finish.  To create the Summer "Heat" look: 1. Apply a layer of White Gold over the entire eyelid.; 2. With the Eye Shadow Brush, contour with the Desert Earth Brown, applied either wet or dry.  For impactful eyes, add a touch of color in the outside corner.; 3. Finish by smudging the Burnt Amber with the Desert Earth on the eyelid for a smoky effect.
- deep brown/pink-toned champage shimmer/medium taupe shimmer/pale white gold shimmer

Eyes To Kill Waterproof Mascara - Empower the eye with more intensity with Eyes To Kill Waterproof Mascara, a long wear, lengthening, and volumizing formula now in Black-Brown for luscious glowing summer lashes.  Limited edition with Summer "Heat" look.  The "lash liner brush" instantly outlines and loads the lashes with a high-powered yet lightweight formula.  Use a zig-zag movement, starting at the root, and glide up to the tips to elongate, curve, separate, and extend the lashes with an unforgettable sheen.
- 3 Black-Brown - mix of black and and brown pigments

Sheer Lipstick - For your summer look with a new signature lip color.  Armani Sheer Lipstick will be your secret weapon, delivering comfort, moisture, and long-lasting luminescent color.  In 4 new limited edition buildable shades for a barely there shimmer to intense color coverage.  Infuse a bold note of color with the star color powered Sienna Red Brick #34.  Add playful vibrancy with Burnt Coral #35.  For the perfect feminine pout, choose the sophisticated Sunset Pink #36.  Or opt for Megan Fox's soft seductive lips with Sand Dune Beige #37, featured in the Summer "Heat" look.
- Sienna Red Brick #34 - deep warm brick red
- Burnt Coral #35 - bright warm coral
- Sunset Pink #36 - warm peach pink
- Sand Dune Beige #37 - nude beige

As I stated earlier, this collection is much too warm toned and deep for me to pull off.  The only item that I like is the eye shadow palette since this is the only one that will work for me in the least.  I do the bronze smoky eye look at lot in the summer time since I think blacks and grays can look too heavy in the warm weather.  I would order this eye shadow palette but I don't know that one item is worth me making the hour and a half drive to Saks just for it.  I think that I would like the Sheer Lipstick in the Sand Dune Beige shade however, I tend to prefer my nudes with a bit of pink in them and I know that I can find a shade like this at MAC.  I am intrigued about the blush but both of these shades will look awful on my skin.

I wish that I had an Armani counter nearer to me, then I could obsess more over this line.  I have to travel a bit to get to this line and therefore I feel like I have to buy products in order to make the trip worthwhile.  Time to see if I can combine a trip to the counter with something else...

photo courtesy of Giorgio Armani

MAC Sized To Go

Sized To Go is newest summer collection from MAC and is unique in that offers no color selections and no new products.  What MAC has done is shrunk down the sizes on some of their best-selling skincare items and made them ready to go for traveling.  Since I rarely use MAC skincare, I am looking at this as a chance to try out a bunch of their products without having to spring for all the full sized products.  Since I already own so much skincare, I actually enjoy buying smaller sizes so that I can try them out and decide if I truly love them before buying the larger sized products.  I don't know if this collection will be at the counters or just on the website and in the stores so I suggest checking out the website and then calling your local counter to find out.

"In travel, small has a virtue that goes beyond size.  It's mandatory!  Fix +, Cleanse Off Oil, Cleanse Off Oil/Tranquil, Pro Eye Makeup Remover, Demi-Wipes, Studio Moisture Cream, Strobe Cream, Green Gel Cleanser, Oil Control Lotion - everything you need to keep your skin cleansed, refreshed, and hydrated."  I am so excited to try some of these products, I am tempted to order each little product and see how much I like it.

Sized To Go...

Pro Eye Makeup Remover - A mega-effective remover that lifts off every look - from delicate to dramatic - without smudges, tears, or aggression.  Pro-quality, yet decidedly gentle; calms, hydrates, and soothes skin with cucumber extract.  Makeup can be immediately reapplied.  A favourite of busy models.

Cleanse Off Oil - An industry-strength oil-based makeup remover that's gentle on the skin.  Botanically formulated with oils of olive fruit, evening primrose, and jojoba seed oil and absolutely 100 percent mineral oil-free.  Massages onto the skin to loosen all makeup, including waterproof mascara.  Emsulsifies into a lotion-type liquid with water; rinses off easily, no tissues required - and no residue!  Protects with Vitamin E.  Skin softening and conditioning.  Good for all skin types.

Cleanse Off Oil/Tranquil - A mineral oil-free makeup remover/cleanser for the skin.  Formulated with extracts of sea grass, peach leaf, soothing chamomile-derived bisabolol and scented with citrus-y yuzu, fused with conditioning botanical oils of grape seed, olive leaf, sunflower, and lavender.  Apply, splash with water.  Lifts off makeup, leaving skin clear, soft, relaxed.  Ultra-gentle: especially good for dry, mature, or stressed-out skins.

Fix + - An aqua-spritz of vitamins and minerals, infused with a calm-the-skin blend of green tea, chamolmile, cucumber, topped off with the fresh, natural, energizing scent of Sugi.  Adds radiance, finishes makeup.  Spray it on.  Skin drinks it up!

Studio Moisture Cream - A super-rich creamy moisturizer boosted with skin-nourishing extracts including passion fruit, spinach leaf, green tea, algae, wheat germ, and coconut.  Moistens, feeds, firms, and protects the skin.  Promotes a healthy radiance.  Diminishes the appearance of fine lines.  Good for day and night.

Strobe Cream - The ultimate quick fix for the skin.  Super-powered with potent botanicals; de-snoozes, de-stresses, moistens, freshens, and boosts the look of dull, flat, or tired-looking skin with a fully loaded vitamin zap and a mega dose of green tea.  Brightens and clarifies with iridescent particles and antioxidants.  Enhances the effect of light on all skin and in all lighting conditions from sunlight to spotlight.

Green Gel Cleanser - Fresh, vibrant, skin-tingling cleanser with refreshing extracts of cucumber and algae.  Full-on foam, yet delightfully soap-free.  Conditions, nourishes, and hydrates leaving skin clean, clear, smooth, and protected.  For a blast of freshness for the skin; just activate with water.

Oil Control Lotion - The ultimate no-shine base for oil control.  Natural exfoliants help improve texture and clarity.  Lightweight and instantly matte, bonds makeup to the skin for fewer touch-ups.  Oil-free hydration with natural colloidal minerals and antioxidants.  Formulated to help keep skin pH-balanced.  Use day or night.

Demi Wipes - Swipes away makeup, smudges, dirt and grime, pronto!  Oversized, luxurious, super-saturated with proactive Vitamin E.  Hydrates and nourishes highly efficiently.  Extremely refreshing.  Totally addictive.  Slickly packaged, re-sealable, ready to go!

I just love the idea of the smaller sizes of skincare.  I have been making a little shopping list as I read every single item description, I want to try them all.  I am most interested in the small size of Fix + to keep in my purse to use throughout the whole day.  I want the Strobe Cream for the same purpose come fall and winter.  Those are my two top picks from this collection but I want to try everything so I can get a read on the quality of MAC skincare.

photo courtesy of MAC

Philosophy Summer 2011 Body Products

Philosophy's summer body products are almost always among my favorite of their releases throughout the year.  The spring florals are always very pretty and the holiday scents are great to give as gifts but summer and fall from this company get my very excited and ready to fill up my online cart.  I'm not sure what Philosophy does better, fun drink inspired scents for warm weather or the fall treat scents that are ready for Halloween.  Maybe this year, I will just need to buy all of the offerings from both seasons and do an experiment...

This summer's collection is all about fun in the sun with their beach-inspired fragrances and then another series that have been inspired by fun, summery drinks.  It consists of several sets of products and individual body products and matching lip glosses.  I use 3-in-1s all summer long and these are just the perfect scents for the warm weather. 

First the fragrance sets.  We have three new ones introduced, two of which contain several products in the same scent and one that contains three 3-in-1s in lovely drink-inspired fragrances. 

The first set is named Greetings From Cabo and contains products in my favorite scent from this company, Senorita Margarita.  "Crave a vacation or happy hour?  Send yourself greetings from Cabo, featuring Senorita Margarita Shampoo, Shower Gel, & Bubble Bath 4 oz. Body Lotion 4 oz., and High Gloss, High-Flavor Lip Shine .5 oz."  Senorita Margarita is both my first Philosophy purchase and my favorite fragrance from this company so I would be more than happy to pick up a set of smaller sizes in this product.  I also have never seen the lotion in the fragrance and I am very excited that I finally have another option in this line.  The second set is named Aloha Girl and contains three product in the fragrance of that same name.  This one is new from Philosophy and sounds like one that I will end up buying products from.  "Kick off your shoes and enjoy a moment in paradise.  Aloha Girl features vanilla coconut Shampoo, Shower Gel, & Bubble Bath 4 oz, Body Lotion 4 oz., and High-Gloss, High-Flavor Lip Shine .5 oz.  Infused with the tropical essence of pure, refreshing coconut juice and a hint of sweet vanilla, this gift set is an instant island getaway to make any girl feel like an Aloha Girl."  The last set is named The Pool Party and this is the one that consist of three 3-in-1s in different fragrances.  "Make a splash with The Pool Party.  Starfruit Kiwi Martini, Blue Hawaiian, and Papaya Passion Punch Shampoo, Shower Gel, & Bubble Baths 6 oz.  Refresh your skin and senses."  I bought a version of this set three years ago with only the Papaya Passion Punch differing from that set.  I love the other two scents already so I doubt that I will need this one.

Now that we have looked at all the sets, it is time to move onto the single products for this season.  Aloha Girl and Papaya Passion Punch are the two new fragrances that are being offered this summer.  We have already quickly looked at these two scents with the sets and now I want to see what is offered in the full sized products.  Aloha Girl is a summery coconut and vanilla scent and allows you to "escape to the tropics" even if you are spending the summer miles away from the beach.  This scent is offered in the traditional 3-in-1, along with a matching Body Lotion and High-Shine, High-Flavor Lip Shine.  This fragrance sounds fantastic since I love coconut fragrances and already own several coconut and vanilla combinations in my body products.  I am so happy that Philosophy has finally begun to bring out lotions to match their 3-in-1s since I love to layer my body products.  The second of the new fragrances is Papaya Passion Punch.  The scent is a mix of papaya and tropical passionfruit punch drink.  This is one a very tropical fruit scent and would be great for some who loves that type of fragrance.  This one is available in the same products as the Aloha Girl scent.  To round out the single products, Lip Shines have also been introduced in the Senorita Margarita and Blue Hawaiian flavors.

God, I just want everything in this collection, it will be hard to decide what my favorites are.  I can start by ruling out The Pool Party set, I already own two of these products and I would buy the Papaya Passion Punch in the full sizes.  I can rule out the Senorita Margarita set since I want all these products in the full sizes and unless I go on vacation, I shouldn't need small sizes in these products.  I would buy the Aloha Girl set to try all the smaller sizes out since I already own all a bunch of coconut scents.  If I try the smaller sizes and really love it, then I know that I will buy all the large sizes in this scent.  The Papaya Passion Punch is like nothing that I already own and is a perfect summer scent, so I will be buying all the full sizes in this one and perhaps even the lip gloss too. Last but not least, I want both of the Lip Shines in the Margarita and Blue Hawaiian flavors.

I just love this collection and it continues the tradition of Philosophy having great summer collections.  I could add every single piece of this to my collection and not think about it twice.

photo courtesy of Philosophy

Guerlain Summer 2011 Collection - Terra Inca

Every year, Guerlain releases a different version of their famed Terracotta collection for the summer.  Terracotta is a line of top-rated bronzing products and among the most famous in the whole Guerlain collection.  Which is saying a lot, since this company produces a lot of beauty winners in almost every single category.  This year, the traditional bronze products are complemented with pops of colors for the eyes and neutrals for the lips.  Terra Inca is the name of this year's collection and I am betting that it is based on shades that are associated with the Inca tribe.

This collection spans another group of bronzers to choose from this summer.  The offerings from this company are considered the Rolls Royce of bronzers so I am betting that if you can't find anything else that works for you, that you will find a shade or product in this collection that will give you a great sun-kissed look for the summer.  Nordstrom states the following about the overall collection, "Guerlain celebrates the arrival of summer with a color-drenched, incredibly chic Terracotta collection!  With colors ranging from ocean blue, flamboyant orange, and ardent browns, Terra Inca invites you to experience a stunning Technicolor voyage."  I'm not that I can embrace the techicolor eye shadow shades but I am noting that the model for the collection wears the bright eye shadows even though she has blue eyes exactly like mine.  Maybe I can make this one work with a bit of practice...

The new version of the famed Terracotta collection...

Terra Inca Eye Shadow Palette - The catwalks have set the tone: summer will be flashy!  Guerlain reinterprets the trend by creating interlacing, intense colors sprinkled with golden arabesques.  A vibrant orange, an intense blue, a deep brown, and a lighter brown, speckled with with a pale golden tone, can be used together or separately to match your every desire and mood.
- bright orange/bright light blue/deep shimmering brown/light shimmering brown/pale shimmering gold

Terra Inca Sublime Radiant Powder for Face & Body - A skin accessory between design and desire, this powder is composed of two subtle pearl shades: a highlighting golden beige and a pink bronze.  Together, these shades will embellish your complexion while warming the skin with an iridescent glow.  The case mimics the extra-large wooden bangles worn by fashionistas, making Terracotta Powder the 'it accessory' of summer 2011!

Terra Inca Kohl Kajal - The cult favorite Kohl Kajal returns to light up the eyes with its ultra-pigmented formula.  Its creamy texture glides on perfectly, making it ideal for women who love a deep and hypnotic look.  Applied at the inner corners, the gaze is instantly accentuated.  It is a summer essential!
- Black Frida - deep rich black

Terra Inca Ombre Fusion Cream Eye Shadow - Ombre Fusion Cream Eye Shadow is a unique creation that offers the softness of a powder, the richness of a cream, and the lightness of water all in one.  These eye shadows reveal a spectacular metallic effect by adorning the eyelids with fabulous shimmering reflections.  the effect is striking and will last from dawn to dusk.  Designed to resist heat and dips in the ocean, the Ombre Fusion eye shadows are the first Guerlain cream eye shadow specially created for the summer!
- Bahia 01 - shimmering cream beige
- Havna 02 - shimmering deep bronze
- Maya 03 - shimmering clay

Terra Inca Moisturizing Gloss - Neon fuchsia, sunny coral, flamboyant red: These concentrates of color envelop the lips in delicious sheerness with insolent shine and give an instant radiance boost to the face!  Their secret?  A luminous and translucent formula, free of sparkles but packed with pigments.  The non-sticky gloss can be applied at any time of the day for an ultra-sensual effect.
- Mambo 08 - bright coral orange
- Salsa 07 - bright fuchsia
- Tango 09 -  bright warm red

Terracotta Bronzing Powder - Whether dark or fair, blonde or brunette, Terracotta powder perfectly creates a natural-looking tan, whatever your complexion.  Its unique texture has always been Guerlain's best kept secret.  It leaves no lines or marks, only a natural, radiant, luminous tan as never seen before.  Its formula, enriched with moisturizing ingredients, does not dry out the skin and ensures long-lasting comfort.  An unequaled range of bronzers to enhance all complexions.
- for blondes - three pink-toned shades: 00/02/04
- for brunettes - four golden-toned shades: 01/03/05/07
- for ethnic skin - one copper-toned shade: 08

I am most interested in buying both of the types of bronzing powder that were featured in this collection.  For the original formula, I am betting that I might need one of the ones that are recommended for blondes since they are pink-toned and should be a bit better for my skin that the more golden shades.  I would like to try the other bronzer too since it has been receiving top marks with many of the other beauty bloggers. 

I am intrigued about the eye shadow palette but I will need to see it before I decide that these are looks that I can pull off.  I will need to plan a trip to Saks or Nordstrom soon so I can make my decision (if it is even in stock at either place anymore), I'm not sure about either the blue or the orange shades in it.  I would like to buy all three shades of the cream eye shadow in the hopes that they really are weather and wear proof, since I can't get cream eye shadow formulas to stick around in the summer time.  I will be skipping out on all of the lip glosses, if I want a high pigment product than I will just look for one of the lipsticks from this company

The bronzing products seem to be the biggest hit from this collection with the cream eye shadow coming in close behind.  I am still thinking that many of these shades might be too warm for me but I can still try them at the counters...

photo courtesy of Nordstrom

Tarina Tarantino Summer 2011 Collection - Sparklicity Bronze

I feel like every single Tarina Tarantino collection involves the word "Sparklicity" in the title.  Every collection consists of shimmery products, one of which is always an eye shadow palette and another of which is always a shimmer body product in some form.  I'm glad that this company has a formula that works for them and that means that I trust that I can find great products in these categories but how many eye shadow palettes do I need from the same company?  Wait, let me rephrase that question...how many shimmer body mist items do I need from the same company?  I guess this company is telling me that I need to replace mine with the season...

The Sephora website provides a quote from Tarina Tarantino as the collection description.  "'Influenced by soaring Moorish architecture and dusty Turkish horizons, Sparklicity Bronze conjures up images of sun drenched vistas and regal exoticism.  Dazzling geometric tiling from the famed Topkapi Palace inspires this sophisticated update of summer colors.  Shimmering neutrals, misty golds, and soft oasis blues lure you eastward on this elegant voyage.'"  So pretty much, this collection looks as though it will be a bronze version of last holiday's Sparklicity Gold.  With the addition of shades of blues instead of just neutrals.  I have been trying to work some blue shades slowly into my eye look, only as a accent in the crease.  I am looking forward to seeing if this eye palette will work with this look.

The new Sparklicity Bronze products...

Sparklicity Bronze Eye Shadow Palette - A palette with eight full-sized, naturally neutral shadows.  Sparkle is a state of mind and this palette of shadows allows you to indulge in a little shimmer and shine.  To make your eyes twinkle like jewels, each of these neutral shades contain long-wearing, high intensity pigments and is infused with crushed pearl, diamond dust, and silky porcelain.  The large oval mirror inside allows you to see both eyes during application, creating your own personal mini vanity.
- Pearl
- Pearlized Nude
- Shimmering Bronze
- Matte Brown
- Pearlized Pink
- Taupe
- Turquoise
- Shimmering Brown

Sparklicity Pure Bronze - A shimmering pigment for the eyes, cheeks, and lips.  Complete your look with a unique, reflective finish.  This glittery formula is made almost entirely of a pure-refraction reflex material and joins a soft, muted bronze background shade.  This result is a shimmery effect that layers perfectly with the rest of your makeup to accentuate the arch of the brow, eyelids, cheeks, and lips. 

Sparklicity Bronze Shimmer Dust - A microcrystalline glitter for the body and hair.  Sparkle is a state of mind and this product adds a dazzling shimmer to bare shoulders, legs, hair, and the decollete.  Its microcrystalline sparkle pigment is made almost entirely from a reflex material, which creates a luxurious and fantastical twinkle effects in a glowing bronze shade that's perfect accent to bronze complexion.

The only piece that I like in this collection is the eye shadow palette, these neutrals are lovely and I have always found these eye shadows to have great pigmentation everytime that I play with the testers at Sephora.  Not that I need another eye shadow palette, but I would like to buy this one, knowing that I will get a lot of use from it both this summer and more in the fall.  I am interested in the Sparklicity Pure Bronze, it seems like it will be more like a MAC Pigment than a regular eye shadow.  I find the bronze quite pretty though I would only it on the eyes so I don't know that I would need it in addition to the eye shadow palette.  I would get no use from this shade of the Shimmer Dust, it would be too deep for me unless I had a full tan.

Noting that summer, spring, and last holiday's collections weren't all the different, I do wonder what fall has in store for us.  Last fall's collection was the most unique that I have seen from this company in the past seasons so I hope that this one will be among the same vein...

photo courtesy of Sephora

YSL Summer 2011 Collection

Since I need even more reasons to obsess over this summer...  YSL everything!  This collection is more about color than about bronzers and the like, which is a refreshing change from most summer collections.  There are days that I feel like I have a nice tan but I have no color on my eyes or lips.  I am great with the self-tanners but I don't always accent that shade with the right pigments.  I love my fake tan but I can tend to let to rule my summer look and not summery makeup shades.  But if I was in France, I would barely have a tan in Paris and would need to travel to Provence in summer.  So I guess that I need pigments to create my summer look...

The model for this collection is unexpectedly paled-skinned and the collection is for Parissian women.  Would I have no desire for a tan if I lived in Paris?  I have no idea but I would be willing to move to Paris and find out.  YSL describes this collection as, "The must-have colors of Summer 2011 embody the unexpected intensity of a summer in Paris, a time when anything is possible."  Guess that I need to go to Paris to understand pales and pigments in the summer...

Here is the newest from Paris and YSL...

La Laque - A new generation nail lacquer that's both elegant and pratical is presented in a sleek elongated glass bottle imprinted with the timeless YSL logo.  A pantheon of fashion-inspired shades, from subtle and natural to vibrant and dramatic provide a high-shine finish for an instant touch of glamour.  Long wear formula with Verbena and Rose Oil strengthens, moisturizes and protects nails from chipping and cracking.  Dries fast and applies evenly without streaking.
- 31 Turquoise Blue - bright aqua blue
- 32 Electic Yellow - bright yellow shimmer

Pure Chromatics - Through the magic of water and a revolutionary new process, Yves Saint Laurent pushes the limits of color with Pure Chromatics, a new generation of eye shadows.  Real makeup artist mgic is made easy with six emblematic harmonies that captivate the eyes.  The power of water.  Exclusively by YSL, the new water-process technology is the latest discovery in color, allowing pigments to be more intense and metallic than ever before!  Use wet for a chromatic transformation.  Expect the unexpected.  Water does not dilute but enhances color pigments in Pure Chromatics.  When used wet, the color rehydrates the eye shadows and gives full intensity to their pigments.  The effect is the satiny powder transforms into a luxurious cream while pearls shine with a metallic finish.
- No 19 - pale lavender/white shimmer/pale cool gray/charcoal shimmer
- No 20 - beige shimmer/white shimmer/pale gold shimmer/charcoal shimmer

Ombres Duolumieres - As homage to the spirit of Monsieur Saint Laurent, these vivacious, couture-inspired color pairs combine beautifully to dress eyes in a seamlessly sophisticated look that's luminous and lasting.  The light shade may be worn alone , or as a base to extend the wear of the accompanying deep-toned shadow, while the dark shade creates depth, contour, and intensity.  The silky, long-wear formula is infused with an optical smoothing effect that reveals breathtakingly radiant that won't fade. 
- 35 Soft Brown Duo - beige shimmer/soft medium brown
- 37 Electric Yellow - Royal Blue - bright green yellow/pure cerulean blue

Creme de Blush - Unique cream to powder blush offers a luminous, radiant, and healthy look.  The remarkably soft formulation feels like silk upon application, ensuring a seamless result.  And because the non-waxy texture will not break through makeup, it is an excellent touch-up tool for use throughout the day.  Suggested application: Using fingertips, gently apply to the apples of the cheeks, blending up and outward toward the hairline.  Gently tap into the skin for flawless blending.
- 4 Bright Coral - bright orange coral

Rouge Pur Couture - A new generation lipstick inspired by Monsieur Saint Laurent's iconic color palette - red, fuchsia, and orange - in a collection of captivating couture shades that offer each complexion a customized look.  Enveloped in a luxurious gold case designed by Creative Director Stefano Pilati, Rouge Pur Couture speaks elegance.  Lips are saturated with intense, stay-true color, thanks to the Coloreveal Technology while natural extracts provide comforting moisture that lasts all day.  Provides medium to full coverage with a radiant, satin finish.  SPF 15.
- 23 Pink Coral - warm peachy pink
- 24 Luminous Fresh Pink Peach - warm light peachy pink
- 26 Luminous Soft Pink Mauve - medium mauve
- 27 Soft Fuchsia - bright pink purple
- 28 Luminous Pink Plum - deep cool plum

This is just not my style, the eye shade on the model is just awful and I could never pull this one off.  There are shades that I like in each of the products, but they aren't really the ones that are featured with this collection.  I guess that I have to say that I like the Pure Chromatics eye palettes the most, especially the No 2 shade (with the golds).  The turquoise blue nail polish I really do love and I am glad that this shade is becoming a trend for this summer.  The only other items that I like are the 23 Pink Coral and 26 Luminous Soft Pink Mauve in the Rouge Pur lipstick formulation.  So I guess that this summer look isn't really what I am going toward this time around but not every collection will be a winner...

photo courtesy of YSL

Bobbi Brown Summer 2011 Collection - Almost Bare

Memorial Day has come and past and the official start of summer came right along with it.  To add to it, temperatures have been in the 90s most of this week and the sun is shining with full force.  I am longing for the beach and have been trying to contain my cravings during the week by watching the Sex and the City where the girls go to the Hamptons.  Since I'm not a girl that wears much makeup to the beach, I thought that the new collection from Bobbi Brown, Almost Bare, would perfectly fit my mood right now.

Almost Bare is a collection that features a new tinted moisturizer, bronzer, lip glosses, and a light fragrance.  I have noticed that this isn't the first collection of the summer to feature a fragrance and I am wondering if we are going to see more companies incorporating fragrance into their color collections.  I have really liked when MAC did this in the past and I usually ended up buying products from the color collection and then would always add the fragrance to my order at the very last moment.  It reenforces the theme of the collection for me and I almost always end up finishing up the perfume before I have even made a dent in many of the color products.  This is trend that could really end up making my perfume collection expand in many ways...

The description for this collection is a quote from Bobbi herself, "This collection is inspired by the gorgeous sun-kissed look you get after a day at the beach, one of my favorite places.  It's quick, easy, and simple - what summer beauty is all about."  I agree with Bobbi in this respect, I hate wearing lots of makeup in the summer.  In the high heat, it runs and smears.  I give up on foundation altogether and just wear bronzer over my fake tan.  But no matter how warm it is, I never give up on wearing some type of fragrance.

The new collection...

Bronzing Powder - This soft matte, silky-smooth bronzer instantly gives skin the look of a natural tan, Bobbi suggests using Bronzing Powder year round to get a sun-kissed.  For best application, Bobbi recommends the Bronzer Brush (sold separately).  Now available in seven shades for a wide range of complexions. 
- Deep Chocolate - deep golden brown
- Rich Cocoa - dark brown
- Golden Light - light tan
- Medium - medium brown
- Natural - medium soft tan
- Dark - dark copper brown
- Deep  - deep golden brown

Bronzer Brush - Our must-have Bronzer Brush now features luxuriously soft bristles and a more rounded brush head to provide smoother, more even application of bronzer.  Perfect for use with our popular Illuminating Bronzing Powder and Bronzing Powder.

SPF 15 Tinted Moisturizer - A great foundation alternative that's perfect for summer or when you want a more casual look.  This 3-in-1 moisturizer hydrates and protects skin while offering sheer, natural-looking coverage that blends smoothly.  Thanks to emollients and skin-conditioning Jojoba Oil, this lightweight formula glides on easily and leaves skin feeling soft and supple.  Ideal for normal and dry skin types.  Available in an oil-free formula also.  Available in a range of nine shades to suit all skintones.

SPF 15 Tinted Moisturizer Oil-Free - Created for women with oily skin who want light moisture, sheer coverage, and sun protection in one, Bobbi's new gel-based formula is the perfect alternative to foundation.  Light and refreshing, it glides on smoothly, blends easily, and provides a hint of coverage for soft, even, and natural-looking skin.  Vitamins C and E protect skin from free radical damage, while SPF 15 helps prevent sun damage.  Available in the same nine shades that the regular formula is.

Highlighter Pen - For gleaming cheekbones with extra pop.  Lightweight and luminescent, the liquid formula creates a dewy, all-day glow and won't settle in your pores.  Available in three shades.  Apply Highlighter along the top of cheekbones and blend gently into skin using clean fingers.  You can also apply the highlighter to cheeks under foundation, to get a subtle, youthful glow.
- Bronze - golden bronze
- Opal - soft opal pink
- Rose - rose pink

High Shimmer Lip Gloss - Bobbi's new lip gloss combines gorgeous, light-catching shimmer with lasting, non-sticky shine.  Made with fine pearls and clear pigments, High Shimmer Lip Gloss stays color-true and gives lips beautiful, brilliant dimension.  Plus it's enriched with emollients and Vitamins C and E to moisturize, condition, and protect lips, so they feel as good as they look,  Whether you wear it on its own or on top of your favorite Lip Color, the new tapered applicator lets you apply it like a pro.
- Bellini - light nude pink with pearl
- Citrus - bright coral with pearl
- Pink Tulle - hot pink with pearl

Creamy Lip Color - Creamy Lip Color combines rich color with comfortable, long-lasting wear and a soft, creamy shine.  With emollient shea butter and plant-derived skin conditioners, this amazing formula glides on smooth, wears all day, and leaves lips soft and moisturized.  Now in five new shades.
- Tiger Lily - shimmering medium tone coral
- Burnt Sugar - bronze nude
- Pale Petal - medium tone blue pink
- Hibiscus - bright candy pink
- Washed Seashell - shimmering medium tone nude pink

Almost Bare Fragrance - This fresh floral eau de parfum features a delicate balance of inspiring Italian Bergamot blended with Violet Leaves to relax and soothe the senses.  The scent is enhanced by a gentle note of Soft Muguet and Gentle Jasmine Petals, with a Soft Cedar and Warm Amber background.

Why am I more interested in the fragrance than anything else?!  Fragrance was my first love and I can see it taking over here.  I must have this perfume and it might even be my top pick of the collection.  I will try the Tinted Moisturizer, most likely the Oil-Free since my skin is crazy this time of the year and I bet this one will work better than the other.  I bet that I will buy the other for the fall, I got so many compliments with the Laura Mercier version and if this one is the same?...  Oh boy...

Lip gloss is my second love and I love the lip glosses in this collection.  I must have Bellini and Pink Tulle.  From the lipsticks, Pale Petal is my choice.  I am looking at Washed Seashell as a dupe to Way To Love, which is huge for me.  I need to try this shade since I am rationing Way To Love.  A dupe to this is amazing and a must-buy.  After that, I need the Tinted Moisturizer with the Oil-Free formula since in the summer, my skin doesn't need any extra hydration.  I want this Bronzer, I love the matte finish that bronzers are coming out in and I really feel the need to be bronze.  Shimmer is a no, but matte is a yes.  I am loving this collection since this is exactly the way that I do makeup at the beach...

photo courtesy of Bobbi Brown

Shu Uemura Summer 2011 Collection - Sakura Collection

Sakura is the newest collection from Shu Uemura and it is based on the Japanese festive of the cherry blossoms.  It is the second collection that was made with Japanese photographer Mika Ninagawa, the first of which you might remember from Holiday of 2008 (I am 99% sure this was the season, it might have been 2009 but I doubt it.).  That collection was a group of palettes all inspired by roses and containing many lovely pink shades.  This only is based on the cherry blossom but I am willing to bet that it will be very similar and that this might be one of my favorite collections of the summer. 

"Shu Uemura reunites with Mika Ninagawa in a special package design collaboration.  Celebrate the ephermal joy of spring sakura blossoms with the vivid images created by world-renowned photographer and film-maker Mika Ninagawa.  Experince the dream-like, kaleidoscope vision of prettiness created by Mika's lens."  The packaging on the foundation palette in this collection is very beautiful and might just push me toward buying this whole collection.  I hope the shades are just as lovely...

The collaboration with Mika Ninagawa...

Special Edition Powder Foundation Case by Mika Ninagawa - Encase the Face Architect Glow Enhancing Powder Foundation in limited edition case specially designed by Mika Ninagawa.  This new-edition compact welcomes the coming season adorned with Mika's sweet and playful spring floral delights.  Includes a sponge made with an extra smooth surface for application.  Foundation sold separately.

Face Architect Glow Enhancing Powder Foundation - Achieve the finish of a liquid foundation with the convenience of a fine textured powder foundation.  Formulated with clear glow enhancer, for an exquisite glow enhanced finish and fresh lasting color.  The thin layer of powder smoothes and evens the skin for a natural flawless complexion.  The beautiful makeup finish has a long lasting formula which makes skin feel light and comfortable throughout the day.  SPF 26.  Available in a range of shades to suit all skintones.

Rouge Unlimited Sakura Collection - Shu Uemura introduces the new "Sakura hybrid pigment" to express the pureness and delicacy of the new cherry blossom colors.  A sakura blossom changes its expression from day to day.  In the glory of sunlight, it shines pure white with a tint of pink, white with twilight, it gradually changes to a mauve tone.  Six shades embody the subtle changes in sakura colors.  Limited package, tinted sakura pink.
- PK 319 - pastel lavender pink - cool undertone
- PK 356 - stylish fushcia - cool undertone
- PK 332 - modern neutral pink - warm undertone
- PK 339 - bright pastel pink - cool undertone
- PK 341 - elegant medium pink - warm undertone
- BG 932 - peachy pink - warm undertone

Supreme Shine Sakura Collection - Shu Uemura introduces the new "Sakura hybrid pigment" to express the pureness and delicacy of the new cherry blossom colors.  The Rouge Unlimited Supreme Shine is a lipstick with the combination of rich, dewy shine and signature hybrid pigment.  The shade reflects that of a dewy sakura petal.
- PK 314 - shimmery baby pink - warm undertone

I just love all the pinks in this collection, this one almost looks more like a spring collection than a summer collection but I'm not complaining either way.  I really want the foundation compact and I am willing to give the foundation a chance even though I don't always have the best of luck with powder foundations.  This one does have an emphasis on a "glow finish" instead of a matte finish so maybe this one will work better for me.  My favorite lip shade is the PK 314 from the Supreme Shine, this one seems like it will have more of a sheer finish and will be very easy to work with this summer.  From the Rouge Unlimited, I want to buy the PK 319, PK 332, and PK 339. 

This is one of the best pink collections that I have seen so far this year.  Trust in Shu Uemura to make a lovely collection...

photo courtesy of Shu Uemura

Essie Summer 2011 Collection - Braziliant

Essie has a very strong spring collection with shades inspired by the beautiful St. Tropez.  Lovely pales and shades of blues.  I was in love with that collection and I would love if the summer collection would follow in its footsteps, however Brazil-inspired brights aren't really my thing.  I will look at all the new shades in this collection but I am betting that I will go back to the spring shades, that aqua shade is just too amazing to be topped.  Each season, Essie offers six new shades and this one is no exception.  We have four brights in this collection, one pale, and one pale lavender.  "If you want to pick up some color at the beach...  I say go Braziliant."

First, the non-brights from this collection.  My favorite shade is named Smooth Sailing and it is a "breezy lavender blue with a reflection of pearl".  I can still see that lavenders are still popular going into summer and they are my favorite shade to wear against tanned skin.  This one will work in very easily with all of the shades that I already own in my polish collection.  The second of the non-bright shades is the pale in the collection.  This shade is described as a "soft seafoam green" but really looks more of a very pale taupe to me.  This shade actually looks rathering unflattering, since it is quite cool but I don't view it as a green shade.  It reminds me more of a pale shade that went wrong in the sun.  So far, I only want the Smooth Sailing shade.

Now we move to the bright shades from this collection.  Too Too hot is the first shade and the least neon of this group.  Every single nail polish collection has to include some kind of red and this is that shade for this one.  This one is a "sizzling rich red coral" with a cream finish.  This one is a warmer red and I prefer more of the cool reds that we tend to see in the fall and winter.  I have enough cool reds that I love that I could skip on this one very easily.  The second shade is another one of my least favorites in the collection.  This is one of the orange shades and is named Meet Me At Sunset, a "vibrant deep orange".  I just can't stand orange shades and this one is no exception.  The other orange shade is Braziliant and I like this one even less than the other one.  "Hot orange with a touch of shimmer" is the way this shade is described and I can't stand oranges or brights so we all know that this one is out.  The last of the bright shades is Super Bossa Nova and is the one with the best name of the collection.  This is one is an "upbeat bright fuchsia" and is the only one of the brights that I actually like.  It is easier for me to like a bright purple than any other bright shade. 

So I only like two shades from this collection but that actually is more than I initially thought that I would.  I love both of the shades that are more on the purple side and will be easy to wear right into my collection.  The Super Bossa Nova shade will work only in the summer months but I think that Smooth Sailing will be able to be worn all year long.  Looks like I still prefer the spring collection from this company...

photo courtesy of allurabeauty.com

Clinique Summer 2011 Collection - Bronze 2011

I have been quite a Clinique girl lately and this new summer collection just serves to strengthen my love of this company.  Two major reasons.  The first is that this collection starts with a bronzer and summer makeup bag set and the other is that there is a SPF product recommended with the collection.  Clinique has hit it out of the ballpark this summer since they are recommending both color and sun protection and they made sure all the product they suggested can fit into this bag, maing it perfect for beach days and long weekend getaways.  Or even just taking to work to touch up before hitting an outdoor cafe for dinner. 

"You're off to a glowing start with Almost Bronzer SPF 15 in a limited edition mini makeup bag.  Clinique makes looking great as easy as a walk on the beach with a simple yet sun-filled collection of beauty essentials, including Almost Bronzer SPF 15 in a cheery, bright mini makeup bag.  Toss in Clinique Sun SPF 45 Targeted Protection Stick, Lash Power Mascara, and Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm and you're good to go.", states the Clinique website as their description of the summer collection.  I just love this concept for a summer collection!

Here is the new collection...

Almost Bronzer SPF 15 with Mini Makeup Bag - Sheer bronzing duo protects with broad-spectrum SPF 15.  Versatile formula lets you customize and build your bronze from sun-kissed to suntanned for a natural look year-round.  Long-wearing.  Oil-free.  Comes with a cheery-bright mini makeup bag.  Limited edition.
- Light/Medium - suitable for light to light medium skin tones

Long Last Glosswear SPF 15 - Lip gloss juiced up with 8 hours of lasting shine.  Spends every minute comforting lips.  In 18 glistening shades from sheer to full intensity.  Moisture makes each one even more mouth-watering.  Protects lips, too.  Welcome to our juice bar.
- Stellar Plum - gold pearlized plum
- Cabana Crush - vibrant tawny pink with gold shimmer
- Fireberry - rich blue red with soft gold shimmer
- Airkiss - midtone pink with gold shimmer
- Juicy Apple - red punch
- Bonfire - burnished tawny red with gold shimmer

Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm - Super-nourishing balm is loaded with mango and shea butters.  Just what dry, delicate lips need to feel comfortably soft and smooth.  Eight natural-looking lip tints in all, each with a subtle sheen.
- Graped-Up - deep purple
- Woppin' Watermelon - bright rose pink
- Chunky Cherry - bright cherry red
- Mega Melon - neutral
- Whole Lotta Honey - light honey caramel
- Richer Raisin - deep burgundy

Lash Power Mascara Long Wearing Formula - Mascara with staying power.  Vows to look pretty for 24 hours without a smudge or smear.  Lasts through rain, sweat, humidity, tears.  Yet the formula removes easily with warm water.  Unique brush reaches and beautifully lengthens even the tiniest lashes.  Ophpthamologist tested. 
- Black Onyx - pure black

Clinique Sun SPF 45 Targeted Protection Stick - Clinique steps up protection against the aging and burning effects of UVA and UVB rays for fragile areas - eye-area, lips, nose, earlobes, even scars.  Enhanced UVA defense helps guard against premature aging.  Conditions, comforts.  Ophpthamologist and dermatologist tested.  Oil-free.

Quick Eyes Cream Shadow -Have a beautiful eye day, all day.  Light, velvety cream glides on vibrant colour that wears up to 10 hours, stays beautifully crease-proof and colour true.  In pearly shades from subtle to high-lustre.  Ophpthamologist tested.
- Starlight Pink - golden shimmery pink
- Rock Violet - muted silvery violet
- Lucky Penny - shimmering soft muted beige with a hint of pink
- Sparkling Nude - soft nude with gold shimmer

I just want everything from this collection, starting with the bronzer set and then going through all of the color cosmetics.  I love the bronzer shade and my skin never gets dark bronze even when I self-tan all summer.  This one will be perfect to look natural with my skin and I don't love yellow but I think that the bag is cute and I will use it a few times this summer.  I have been interested in the Chubby Sticks since I first saw them earlier in the spring; my favorite shades are Woppin' Watermelon and Chunky Cherry.  I hate reapplying lip gloss all night and I am hoping that these live up to their description.  I can skip these shades of the Glosswear since I already own some of them and I don't need any this time around.  I want all four of the Cream Shadow shades and it goes without saying that I will be buying the SPF 45 Stick. 

photo courtesy of Clinique

Estee Lauder Summer 2011 Collection - Bronze Goddess

Estee Lauder does a variation on the same type of summer collection every single year.  Bronze Goddess is this year's summer collection and one of the biggest summer collections year after year.  The bronzers and summer makeup from Estee Lauder has been on the top picks of beauty editors ever since Tom Pecheux took the creative direction for this company over about two years ago.  This collection actually contains two parts, one part is the new colors and the other part is fragrance.  Bronze Goddess is a top pick for this company fragrance-wise and building a whole collection around it is a great marketing technique and I think that ensures this color collection's success over the next season. 

The makeup look on the cover model reminds me of the French Riveria and features bronzed skin, bright blue eye makeup, and a neutral lip.  The blue eye makeup won't be for me but I am betting that I can find some new bronzers for myself and perhaps a new lip shade.  I haven't gotten the change to work with the fragrance yet but I have heard from others in the beauty industry that it is a light citrus, which also isn't quite my first choice among fragrance types. 

Let's check the collection out since I can already tell that it will be considered one of the showstoppers on beauty this summer...

Bronze Goddess Sea Star Bronzing Blush - Bronzer and blush in one.  Use shades alone or blend.  A blush of endless of summer.  Shimmering sun-kissed colro to enhance your tan.  Sweep on cheeks - wear alone or over bronzer.  For a more dramatic glow, apply to "apple" of cheeks and temples and down center of face.  A mix of bronze with hints of pinks in the shade.

Bronze Goddess Soft Matte Bronzer - Silky and luxurious.  Natural, shine-free color.  Give yourself a heavenly glow with this silky, luxurious powder bronzer.  Works with virtually any skin tone.  Sweep it on and the smooth, oil-free powder gives face, shoulders, and decolletage a seductive bronze look.  Unique oil control complex keeps shine-free and comfortable. 

Bronze Goddess Island Oasis Eye Shadow Palette - Shimmering metallics and sunlit satin shadows.  Shades of paradise.  Highlight, define, and dramatize your eyes with the shimmering metallics and sunlit satin shadows of summer.  Luxurious compact contains six complementary shades to wear alone or together - the possibilites are endless. 
- shimmering taupe/deep bronze shimmer/warm sand/bright blue/medium shimmering gold/very deep brown shimmer

Shadestick Duo - Two intense eye shades for drama and definition.  Simply divine.  Two tempting eye shades for the ultimate goddess effect.  Intense, stay-true color is long-wearing with a high-shimmer metallic finish.  Smooth formula glides on easily, feels comfortable.  Can be used two ways for definition and drama: appky to lashline as a liner or apply all over lid as a shadow. 
- Pink Teal - rose pink and bright teal
- Gold Bronze - gold and bronze

Sumptuous Waterproof Bolf Volume Lifting Mascara - All weather.  All waterproof.  Bold, weightless volume.  At last, a waterproof mascara that gives you gorgeous lashes just the way you love them.  Full, curled, sexy.  And virtually indestructible.  Now lashes look beautiful in all lash conditions, from steamy humidity to a splash in the pool.  Bold Volume Waterproof formula provides all the benefits of the original Sumptuous - weightless volume, lift, and curl - plus advanced total waterproofing.  Ultra light, lash-thickening fibers plump even the most sparse lashes.  Lashes are soft and flexible, never brittle or spiky.  Exclusice Brushcomber thickens like a brush.  Defines and separates like a comb. 
- Black - black

Pure Color Gloss - Brillant color in three high shine finishes.  Lip gloss with the power to light up your face.  True Vision technology transforms ordinary color and makes it extraordinary.  Imagine with it will do for your lips.  In wide range of wearable shades with lasting shine for lasting impression.  You'll want them all.  True Vision color: maximized color impact; magnified vibrancy, clarity, and dimension; amplified brillance.  Each Pure Color Gloss shade comes in one of three distinct, multi-dimensional finishes: Mirror Shine, Dimensional Sparkle, and Luminous Shimmer; all of which have sheer - to - medium coverage.  High performance wear: feels light and luscious, never sticky; drenched with conditioners, flexible-tip applicator hugs every curve of your lips; smoothes on precisely , stays on perfectly.
- Sunburst - warm tangerine (sparkle)
- Plum Divine - cool deep plum  (shimmer)
- Blazing Coral - warm medium coral (sparkle)

Pure Color Nail Lacquer - High Shine.  Long wear.  Turn your fingertips into fashion statements with a wardrobe of sensational shades to add definition, polish, and style to your fingertips.  Designed by Tom Pecheux, world-renowned makeup artist and Estee Lauder Creative Makeup Director.  Tom combined today's top trends with timeless classics - all the colors he prefers for photo shoots and fashion shows.  Formulated with True Vision technology to transform ordinary color and make it extraordinary.  Rich, glossy with an intense mirror-like shine.  Fast-drying.  Long-wearing.  High-pigment, high-impact brillance in 3 effects: creme, pearl, and shimmer.  True Vision technology takes ordinary color and makes it extraordinary.  Choose from a multi-facted spectrum of modern and timeless shades.  Resists chipping - even in water.  High coverage won't fade, dull, or streak, even in strong sunlight.  The brush makes it easy - specially designed brush shape makes application incredibly easy.  In three strokes - middle, left, and right - you're done.
- Shimmering Bronze - true bronze shimmer

Bronze Goddess Soleil Eau Fraiche Skinscent - Summer's new sun-kissed fragrance.  Inspired by the warmth of the Mediterranean, a citrus floral blend with notes of Bergamot and Orange Blossom.  Top notes - Silician Citron, Calabrese Bergamot, Blood Orange, Sweet Tangerine, Provencal Lavender Flowers, Lemon Tree Leaves (Petitgrain).  Middle notes - Pittosporum, Neroli from Tunisia (Orpur), Moroccan Orange Blossom (Orpur), Indian Sambac, Grapefruit Tree Blossoms, Pink Lily Nectar.  Bottom notes - Blond Woods, Iris Accord, Ambrette Seeds, Crystalline Musks.

Bronze Goddess Eau Fraiche Skinscent - The fragrance that worships every inch of you.  A sensuous, sun-drenched blend of Bergamot and Mandarin, cooled with Tahitian Gardenia Petals and Coconut, warmed with Amber, Sandalwood, and Vetiver.  All heat, all desire,  all woman.  Top notes - Sicilian Bergamot, Mandarin.  Middle Notes - Tiare Milk (Tahitian Gardenia Petals), Coconut Oil, Orange Flower Buds, Jasmine, Magnolia Petals, Myrrh.  Base notes - Amber, Sandalwood, Vetiver, Caramel, Coconut Cream.

The second of the two listed Bronze Goddess scents sounds like one that I would be very interested in but the first one I can leave at the counter.  The second one seems to be more floral and has a coconut base so this one will make a Most Wanted list for next month.  I can't wait to wear this one all summer long, magnolia is favored note of mine too.  So I already tend to gravitate toward this note and the addition of all those others makes this a fragrance that I might not be able to pass up. 

The color collection is another story, many of these items are already sold out and most of the rest of them aren't my shades.  I'm not into the blush and bronzer combination, I bet that I would create a complete disaster on my cheeks with this product.  I really like the matte bronzer in this collection, I am so glad that the beauty industry is beginning to producr bronzers that have a natural matte finish instead of the shimmer finishes that we have been seeing for the past few years.  Personally, I never use shimmer bronzers unless I am putting it on my cheekbones only.  The only other items that I like in this collection are some of the eye makeup.  I love the eye shadow palette and am willing to ignore the pale blue shade in it since I love the golds and bronzes that it contains.  My last love from this collection is the Shadestick Duo in the gold shades, I will get use from this product all summer and well into the fall.  I can't wait to go to the counter and try this one out.  Otherwise, I can leave the lip colors since I am not looking for either plum or coral this summer and I don't think the nail polish shade will work with my skintone. 

photo courtesy of Estee Lauder

MAC Surf Baby! Colour

Now we have come to the most exciting part of the new Surf Baby! collection!  The Colour part of this collection was always the part that I was most interested in and is where I will do most of my hauling of this collection.  The new Crushed Pigment Stacks and the Eye Shadows made my Most Wanted list for this month and I can't wait to go up the counter over the next few days.  I'm not as fond of the lip shades but the eye and the nail shades will be perfect for the summer. 

"The lure of the endless summer starts here with My Paradise Cheek Powder, Pigments, Summer Stash of Crushed Metallic Pigments, Hibiscus Lipstick, and Splashproof Lash Mascara that just won't smudge.  Journey to a world where feeling the rush means taking a risk.  Hang ten!"  From what I have read on the Makeup Alley boards, both Hibiscus and My Paradise sold out within the first hour or two after MAC put the products up on their website.  Hopefully, MAC will be doing some fast restocks on many of these products or a riot might occur at some of the counters over the weekend...

The Colour part of the collection...

Pigment - Pigment is a highly concentrated loose 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.
- Melon - soft bright golden peach
- Naked - fleshy beige with pearl (matte)

Surf Baby! Eye Shadow - Summer shades that are right for each and every Surf Baby.  A seasonal ode to the world's hippest culture, this cool collector's item comes in a hibiscus emblazed compact with a MAC logo on the lid.  Limited edition.
- Short Shorts - frosty white champagne
- Sun Blonde - dirty yellow gold
- Saffron - deep coral caramel
- Surf USA - frosted teal
- Swell Baby - mid-tone gray

Summer Stash: Crushed Metallic Pigment - A style-wave of four limited edition shades of crushed metallic pigment individually presented in a see-through stack.  Exotically floral as any hibiscus, pink and violet soar amidst a melange of silver, gold, and white pearl.  Limited edition.
- Pearl - light white pearl
- Peachy - light pink champage
- Pink - light violet with silver pearl
- Old Wine - brown bronze with gold pearl

Surf the Ocean: Crushed Metallic Pigment - A style-wave of four limited edition shades of crushed metallic pigment individually presented in a see-through stack.  Cool as water, blue and aqua-green shades of shimmer amidst bronze, silver, and platinum frost.  Limited edition.
- Titanium - frosty platinum
- Aquamarine - light yellow green
- Bronze - gold bronze
- Graphite - dirty graphite with silver pearl

Surf Baby! Powerpoint Eye Pencil - Waterproof enough to ride the waves without a smudge.  Cool in shade, shimmer, and attitude.  Packaging goes full-on Surf Baby! in the vibrant striped pattern of the collection.
- Gilded White - yellow white frost
- Blue Noon - teal with gold pearl

Splashproof Lash - Waterproof.  Thickens and lengthens.  Made for sports and high emotions.  Delivers natural-looking definition in one coat.  Keeps lashes silky, soft, flexible.  Brush tapers to evenly coat each lash, even at the inner corner of the eye.  Smudge resistant.
- Black - black

Surf Baby! Lipstick - Surf-cultured.  Shine-right.  Boldy floral sun-bright or delicately nude-y, these lipsticks wear their summer stripes with the cool grace of a real surfer dude.  Add their white casing and there's no doubt - summer starts here.  Limited edition.
- Naturally Eccentric - creamy white nude
- Hibiscus - bright orange coral
- Bust Out! - dirty midtone violet
- Mocha - peachy yellow-brown

Surf Baby! Lipglass - Summer's highest, most power-charged shine...shaded for the season.  Features a white cap and the vibrant striped pattern of MAC summer.  Limited edition.
- Girl On Board - pale white gold
- Good Lovin - soft peachy pink
- Strange Potion - soft coral pink
- Krazy Kahuna - warm midtone brown

Surf Baby! Cheek Powder - Micro-fine, creamy...flatters summer skin and freckles with low-to-buildable coverage.  Add a peach shade with gold hibiscus overspray and, sun or none, you're ready to glow.  Oversize white compact features MAC Surf Baby! logo.  Limited edition.

Surf Baby! Nail Lacquer - A shade the complements and enhances the surfer girl's groovy look, matched by a rich, creamy formula as smooth, slick, and chic as your surfboard.  A perfect way to Hang Ten.  Limited edition.
- Hangin' Loose - dirty pink nude
- Ocean Dip - midtone creamy aqua

239 Eye Shader Brush - Soft and dense to shade or blend eye shadow or emollient-based products.  This brush has a tapered, rounded edge with smooth, firm, fine fibres.  It can be used to build intense colour on the eyelid.  MAC professional brushes are hand-sculpted and assembled using the finest quality materials.  They feature wood handles and nickel-plated brass ferrules.

So lots of great summer picks from this part of the collection.  My favorites are still the Surf the Wave Crushed Pigment and the Eye Shadows.  Even though the Surf the Wave stack has a pale blue in it, the Pigment formula is easy to apply very sheerly so I could use it sparingly in the crease against all the more neutral shades in the stack.  From the Eye Shadows, my favorite is the Sun Blonde (gold) than the Short Shorts (champagne) however neither of these shades are very unique so the world won't end if I can't get my hands on them.  Good Lovin is the only lip product that I would purchase, I don't really like any of the other shades and I already own Strange Potion from Venomous Villians.  To finish everything off, I LOVE the Ocean Dip shade of the nail polish.  I don't know quite why I didn't see it when I first looked at the collection but I must go and get it.  I don't own any shade like this at the moment.

I need to get myself to the beach sometime very soon...

photo courtesy of Nordstrom

MAC Surf Baby! Face

The Surf Baby collection is now fully on the MAC website and is coming out on the Nordstrom and Macy*s websites and the counters will be bringing it out this week too.  This collection is so large that MAC divided it into two parts on the website, one is the Face collection and the other is the Colour collection.  The Face collection is the bronzers and the assorted products that would support them.  Last year, I loved the To The Beach collection and so far, I like what I have seen of Surf Baby!, I really like certain pieces of it but I overall liked To The Beach much more.  We are going to start with the Face collection here and go into the Colour collection the next post. 

"Bronzing for every dude and dudette looking for a killer tan.  Bring commotion to the ocean with Bronzing Powder and new Studio Careblend/Pressed Powder.  Add contours and dimension with the latest Skinsheen Bronzer Stick!  Defy sun-and-sea blasted lips with Suntints SPF 20 Liquid Lip Balms.  Stylishly striped Surf Baby! bags are ready for sea, splash, and sun."  I'm not so sure about working with the Bronzer Stick since I have never tried liquid bronzers before so I will need the MAC associates to help me with this product.  Whether or not, I like the liquid bronzer, I can't wait to try the powder bronzers in this collection.

Here is the Face part of this collection...

Surf Baby! Suntints SPF 20 Liquid Lip Balm - Summer's softest tint and luscious liquid shine.  more than pretty.  Defends lip against sun, wind, and salt.  With its MAC Surf Baby! striped vial, and easy-going nature, a must-have.  Limited edition.
- Lilt of Lily - soft creamy pale pink
- Pink Tinge - clean bright yellow pink
- Full of Grace - soft sheer rose

Surf Baby! Studio Careblend/Pressed Powder - Creamy, blend-able, no-streak bronzing powder that provides a naturally matte, lightly luminous finish.  Antioxidant formula ups the care factor.  In its white surf-rider striped MAC Surf Baby! compact - stylish!  Limited edition.
- Gold-Go-Lightly - mid tone golden tan brown
- Lush-Light Bronze - mid tone rosy pink brown

Surf Baby! Bronzing Powder - Our classic bronzing powder heads surfside in a compact featuring the vibrant stripes of the Surf Baby! collection.  Lays on the bronze as smoothly as you ride the waves!  Limited edition.
- Solar Riche - midtone deep orange brown
- Refined Golden - finely spun golden with soft pearl finish

Surf Baby! Skinsheen Bronzer Stick - Bronzes, shapes, and sculpts the face.  Sheer-to-medium buildable coverage that looks naturally radiant and sunny.  Stashable - with its MAC Surf Baby! look - way cool!  Limited edition.
- Gilty Bronze - coppery bronze with gold
- Tan-Tint - soft suntan bronze
- Billionaire Bronze - warm golden tan

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

Surf Baby! 1 - Our classic rectangular MAC makeup bag captures the surf spirit in the collection's signature multicolored striped pattern.  Mini-petite.  High quality coated canvas looks fresh -  a summer must-have!  Limited edition.  5 in x 4 in x 1.5 in.

Surf Baby! 2 - Our classic rectangular MAC makeup bag captures the surf spirit in the collection's signature multicoloted striped pattern.  Mini-petite.  High quality coated canvas looks fresh - a summer must-have!  Limited edition.  6.5 in x 4.5 in x 1.5 in.

First thoughts - I love this packaging!  The white and striped pattern will make these products very easy to find in my traincase and will allow me to not dig for five minutes to find one or two products.  Of the bronzing products, I only want the Studio product in the Lush-Light Bronze shade since that this is one with most pink in it, all of the others seem to be much warmer and almost more orange.  As I stated above, I still need to try out the bronzer sticks, since I haven't worked with anything like them before.  Last but not least, I want all three of the Suntints Lip Balm but I have heard that they are all very sheer and without tons of pigment so I feel that one will get me through.  My favorite shade is the Full of Grace shade, the one that is more rose than light pink.  I also want to buy the Surf Baby! 2 bag (the larger one), the bright colors on this one will also make it very easy to find in my tote bag.

Next up...the Colour Collection!!! 

photo courtesy of MAC

Surf Baby Available Now!

MAC has put the whole Surf Baby collection up on their website early and it is already beginning to sell out!  I haven't time at this very moment to get the whole collection up but I do encourage you all to head over to the MAC website and begin looking at it.  The collection is so large that it is divided into two parts; the colour collection and the face and body collection.  Pictured is one of the items that was most anticipated from Surf Baby, the Hibiscus Lipstick shade.

Start shopping and I will be getting the collections up when I have time around work this week.  So looking forward to these new Crushed Metallic Pigments in this collection...

photo courtesy of MAC

L'Occitane Summer 2011 Collection - Pivoine Flora

Pivoine Flora is the newest color collection from the French beauty company, L'Occitance.  I have known this brand mostly for skincare and body products but I have never worked with the makeup since it is much harder to find than the other products.  I wish that Sephora carried the whole makeup line from this company in their stores since then I wouldn't have to go to the L'Occitane store to get everything (it about an hour away).  I can only hope...

This collection is based on the blooming of the peony plant that always occurs in late spring and continues into the beginning of the summer months.  I have a peony plant in my yard and I always look forward to when all the pink flowers bloom and make my entire yard very fragrant.  This collection is named Pivoine Flora and is series of pinks for a look that is naturally beautiful.  The L'Occitane website gives the following description of the new makeup collection, "Every year in May, as the spring breeze caresses the peonies, they seem to come to life, dance and spin like graceful ballerinas..."

Here is the collection...

Pivoine Flora Lip Shine - This glistening lip gloss coats the lips with a natural shimmering sheen.  Its light, non-sticky, delicately scented syrup texture contains softening Peony extract to protect and pamper the lips, leaving them looking fabulous!
- Rose - natural rose shimmer
- Brun - warm bronze shimmer
- Peche - warm coral shimmer
- Grenadine - bright red shimmer

Pivoine Flora Color Cream - This duet of colored creams can be used according to your desires, to illuminate amd warm up the face.  Enriched with softening Peony extract and delicately scented, this smooth texture glides on with fingertips and blends easily. 
- Rose - pure rose shade accents the cheekbones while the pearly rose can be used to highlight your look
- Abricot - apricot shade accents the cheekbones while the golden beige can be used to highlight your look
- Beige - chocolate blush accents the cheekbones while the pearly beige shade can be used to highlight your look

Pivoine Flora Healthy Glow Face Powder - Enriched with softening Peony extract and delicately scented, this Healthy Glow Face Powder warsm up the complexion while leaving the skin soft and velvety.  the beautifully transparent texture is perfect to enhance and highlight all complexions.  Can be easily applied with a powder brush.  Simply dab onto key areas of the face (cheekbones, forehead, chin, nose) or over the entire face for a perfectly matte and even complexion.

Pivoine Flora Eye Duo - Enriched with softening Peony extract, these two satiny eye shadows can be used to create your desired look with touches of radiant and contrasting colors.  The lighter shade highlights the eyelid, while the darker shade gives definition and intensity for a more dramatic look.  When you mix the two shades on the back of your hand, a third unexpected color appears, enlarging the palette of colors!
- Blanche Etoile - pale white shimmer/deep navy
- Lilas - pale beige gold shimmer/medium cool lilac

Pivoine Flora Eye Quartet - Enriched with softening Peony extract, the eye shadows of this Petals Quartet, featuring rose, beige, and purplish shades, gracefully and beautifully highlight the eyes.  These satiny powder shadows glide on the eyelid with ease.  The four colors can be used separately for a natural look or combined for a more dramatic result - apply to your heart's desire.
- pale beige shimmer/pink bronze shimmer/medium rose shimmer/plum shimmer

Pivoine Flora Lipstick - This lipstick coats the lips with shimmering color veil.  The rich texture, delicately perfumed and enriched with softening Peony extract, gives an instant feeling of comfort and leaves a light, non-tacky feel on the lips.
- Cuivre - shimmering golden beige
- Rose - shimmering pink with gold reflections
- Fuschia - shimmering pure pink
- Cerise - shimmering crimson red

My favorites pieces of this collection are the lip products and the eye shadow quartet.  The eye shadow quartet will be perfect to create a more subtle lilac eye, I don't know much about the pigmentation from this company but I doubt that it will be as impactful as that of MAC or Urban Decay.  I am a bit afraid to order this product from the website since I can't try them out so I will either have to drive out to a store or find dupes of them.  I love shades from both the Lipstick and the Lip Glosses.  The Lipstick choice for me will be the Rose shade, this one will be an easy rose for me to pull off, both with a tan and in the winter months.  I also love the Cerise on first glance, but I would order the Rose shade first to see how this formula works and if I would like it in a more dramatic red.  Lip Gloss-wise, I need that Rose shade, I bet this one will be perfect for a naturally pretty look.

I will be conservative in ordering the makeup the first time, the Rose shades will be easy for me to pull off whatever the pigmentation ends up looking like on.  I really wish that Sephora would carry this color line in their store...

photo courtesy of L'Occitane

O.P.I. for Sephora Summer 2011 Collection - Safari Luxe

Animal prints are right on trend this summer and this is one of the first major collections that I am seeing that embraces this trend.  I have seen lots of neutrals and bronzes this summer but so far, I haven't been seeing all out safari shades.  Until I saw this nail polish collection that is...  O.P.I. for Sephora has released a new collection for summer that is all safari hues and a group of animal print nail prints that stick right onto the nail.  I have been interested in these types of stick on products since I first saw some earlier this spring but I don't think that this type of product really works my style.  Maybe this collection will sway me...

"Inspired by animal-print fabrics, snakeskin pumps, and stacks of gold bracelets, Sephora by O.P.I.'s new Safari Luxe collection takes after one of the hottest trends to hit the runways: safari chic.  'We came up with a nail lacquer collection as stylish and fun as the trend itself,' says Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, O.P.I. VP and Artistic Director.  'And just like a leopard-print scarf spices up an outfit, each summery shade adds instant edginess to your wardrobe.'"  We have six new nail polish shades and three of the stick-on prints to chose from in this collection.

First the new nail polish shades...

Nail Polish - Fashion-forward, wearable nail colors for the modern woman who is looking for an effective, safe, environmentally conscious brand.  Sephora by O.P.I. Nail Color, a line of 54+ trend-setting shades, puts the final touch on fingertips and toes with a top-quality formula you have come to expect for O.P.I..  The long-lasting, chip-resistant polish ensures flawless results with each application, and its green ingredient list excludes DBP, toluene, and formaldehyde.  Sephora by O.P.I. combines the quality and color expertise of O.P.I., the world leader in professional nail color, with Sephora's reputation for the latest in beauty and sophistication.
- Caught With My Khakis Down - opaque fatigue green
- Don't Feed The Hand Models - opaque pink beige
- A Color That Can't Be Tamed - opaque mint green with fine holographic glitter
- I Don't Bite - opaque soft purple with fine holographic glitter
- Wild About Shimmer - sheer champagne with medium gold glitter
- Once A Cheetah, Always A Cheetah - opaque orange with medium gold glitter

Chic Print - Safari Luxe - Animal print pre-cut nail patches for extraordinary nails, instantly!  This innovative line, brewed by Minx and loved by your favorite celebrities, creates customized nails, featuring fierce patterns and prints to satisfy your wildest mani-and-pedi dreams.  One set of Chic Prints contains 16 nail patches of varying widths, for a one time application to fingers or toes.  The nail patch is a solid-film material with an adhesive bed that is activated by friction, allowing the patch to fit over the compound curves of your nails and seal onto the nail bed.  The patent-pending material removes easily by rubbing and peeling off.
- Giraffe - giraffe print (brown spots on clear background)
- Leopard - leopard print (black spots on gold background)
- Zebra/Leopard - one half zebra print, the other half leopard print (black stripes/black spots on a white background)

I am much in doubt that I could pull off the Chic Prints, maybe I would be able to wear them one night out to match a black dress adn then take them off in the morning.  I guess that if I were to try them out, I would buy the Leopard print ones, the black and gold ones.  If the Zebra wasn't combined with Leopard, then I would love the Zebra but there is just too much going on for me to pull this pair off.  From the nail polish shades, I think that my favorite is I Don't Bite, the lilac with holographic shimmer.  We all know that I have been loving lilacs and purples this spring and this is another one to add to my collection.  I also really like Wild About Shimmer, I could use this by itself or as a topcoat to other shades.  Caught With My Khakis down is one of my favorite names of all time and since I like the color, this one ends up on my shopping list too. 

photo courtesy of Sephora

Smashbox Summer 2011 Collection - Softbox

Softbox is the newest collection from Smashbox and I must start by saying that this is very small collection.  It actually only contains two new items, one eye palette and one lip gloss set.  The eye shadow palette has been a top pick of mine ever since I first spied pictures of it.  Lately, I have been using a Smashbox eye shadow at least twice a week and I never fail to get compliments on the shades and I am always happy with the wear and easy of use of this eye shadow formula.  You could say that Smashbox is beginning to rise up on teh list of my favorite makeup companies even though I have mostly been using their eye makeup so far.  Perhaps this lip gloss set will bring me over to their lip products yet too...

This collection is named Softbox and it contains shades that will help to create an easy summer look that is also polished enough to wear during the day to work.  "Inspired by the Softbox Studio at Smashbox - where natural light rules - our summer collection is all about effortless, diffused beauty."  I just love the neutrals that are in the eye palette and I can't wait to get my hands on this set. 

Softbox Eye Shadow Palette - Forget piling on eye makeup in the heat of summer.  Our pro artists have handpicked all of these hues (including 7 new shades and 4 best sellers!) with soft, naturally gorgeous eyes in mind.  Includes FREE step-by-step guide for creating three looks and a mini Photo Finish Lid Primer.  This set includes: 9 Eye Shadows, 2 Cream Liners, Double Ended Brush, Mini Photo Finish Lid Primer, Get The Look Guide.
- Nectar Eye Shadow - warm gold shimmer (new)
- Lucky Penny Eye Shadow - bronze shimmer (new)
- Sienna Eye Shadow - deep black brown
- Vanilla Eye Shadow - off white shimmer
- Sugar Eye Shadow - warm pink gold shimmer (new)
- Nude Eye Shadow - deep warm brown
- Flirt Eye Shadow - deep champagne with sparkle
- Stone Eye Shadow - deep matte warm charcoal
- Truffle Eye Shadow- deep black brown shimmer
- Bronze Cream Liner - warm bronze (new)
- Taupe Cream Liner - charcoal gray

Softbox Lip Gloss Collection - Just try to resist this beautifully wearable set of glossy goodness in take-everywhere travel sizes - perfect for summer getaways.  Plus, no matter what your day looks like, you're covered with both our classic and long-wearing formulas.  Includes 3 new shades and 3 bestsellers! 
- Infinite Limitless Long Wear Lip Gloss - pale beige shine
- 24/7 Limitless Long Wear Lip Gloss - deep sheer plum shine
- Afterglow Lip Gloss - shimmery pinky peach
- Brown Sugar - warm caramel shimmer (new)
- Glam - cool mauve shimmer (new)
- Illume - clear iridescent shimmer

I love both of these two sets and I looking forward to buying both of them.  If I had to choose, my favorite of the two is the eye shadow palette, I can work with all of these neutrals for the next few seasons.  I love the new Nectar Eye Shadow shade and this one is only available in the palette so far.  I also love the Vanilla and Sugar shades from this palette too.  From the lip set, I love the Afterglow and Glam shades.  Afterglow reminds me very much of NARS Orgasm so my interest here will be comparing the lip gloss formulas. 

photo courtesy of Smashbox