MAC Venomous Villians - Cruella

This is the last of the Venomous Villians collection, Cruella. This collection is based around the red lips that this villian wears in the 101 Dalmations movie. I am a red lipstick girl but I didn't pre-order any products from this collection and we will look at why later. "Cruella de Vil of 101 Dalmations. Animated by Disney in 1961. A Dalmation dominatrix. Famed for her cheekbones, dramatic entrances, and trails of absinthe-coloured smoke".

Here is the collection...

Venomous Villians Small Eye Shadow - A fiendishly fashionable Eye Shadow, custom-packaged for the MAC Venomous Villians collection. Limited edition.

- Sweet Joy - frosted creamy pale gold

- De-Vil - rich copper

- Carbon - intense black

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

- Rapidblack - true black

Venomous Villians Lipstick - As wonderfully wicked as its iconic inspiration, a Lipstick specially shaded and packaged for the MAC Venomous Villians collection. Limited edition.

- Innocence, Beware! - light yellow pink

- Heartless - cherry red

Venomous Villians Lipglass - As wonderfully wicked as its iconic inspiration, a Lipglass specially shaded and packaged for the MAC Venomous Villians collection. Limited edition.

- Devilishly Stylish - light nude with gold pearl

- Wicked Ways - deep fuschia with pink pearl

Venomous Villians Powder Blush - A Powder Blush specially shaded for the MAC Venomous Villians collection. Limited edition.

- Darkly My Dear - dirty brown plum

Venomous Villians Beauty Powder - A special limited edition Beauty Powder featuring the silky, lightly pearled finish unique to this formula but specially shaded for the MAC Venomous Villians collections.

- Her Own Devices - cool nude

I had originally planned to order Heartless but I was told that it was very close in shade to both MAC Red and Russian Red, both of which I already own. I really like Heartless but I don't need another red lipstick that is close to two that I already own. I like the Sweet Joy and De-Vil Eye Shadows but I already own MAC shadows that are close in shade to these.

photo courtesy of MAC

MAC Venomous Villians - Evil Queen

This is my favorite of the group of collections and the one that I pre-ordered the most from. Snow White is my favorite of the Disney movie and I have been told that I resemble Snow White when I wear red lipstick shades. "The vain Evil Queen from Snow White. Unleashed by Disney in 1937. Jean Harlow eye brows. Joan Crawford's face. She set the standard for glamorous depravity and made us all glad we don't have a mirror that talks back".

Here are the new shades...

Venomous Villians Small Eye Shadow - A fiendishly fashionable Eye Shadow, custom-packaged for the MAC Venomous Villians collection. Limited edition.

- Her Alter Image - light violet

- Vainglorious - bronze burgundy

- Vile Violet - deep dirty blue purple

Penultimate Brow Marker - A liquid, pen-style marker for colouring and styling the brows to a well-defined, natural-looking finish. Easy to control. Tapered tip provides precision and helps create the feathery strokes needed to fill in and perfect the brows. Flow-through, quick-drying formula means no smudges. Long-wearing.

- Universal - universal

Venomous Villians Lipstick - As wonderfully wicked as its iconic inspiration, a Lipstick specially shaded and packaged for the Venomous Villians collection. Limited edition.

- Toxic Tale - bright coral

- Sinister - soft brown plum

Venomous Villians Lipglass - As wonderfully wicked as its iconic inspiration, a Lipglass specially shaded and packaged for the Venomous Villians collection. Limited edition.

- Strange Potion - soft coral pink

- Hot House - deep raspberry with pink pearl

Venomous Villians Beauty Powder - A special limited edition Beauty Powder featuring the silky, light pearled finish unique to this formula but specially shaded for the MAC Venomous Villians collection.

- Oh So Fair - clean pink with gold pearl

Venomous Villians Powder Blush - A Powder Blush specially shaded for the MAC Venomous Villians collection. Limited edition.

- Bite of an Apple - soft coral pink

I pre-ordered my two favorite items from this collection, the Eye Shadow in Her Alter Ego and the Lipglass in Strange Potion. I liked the Eye Shadow in Vainglorious but I wasn't sure how well it would work with other items that I own. I was afraid to the get the Powder Blush since it seemed very coral in the pan however i still want to see if the counter has any of the Oh So Fair Beauty Powder left in stock.

photo courtesy of MAC

MAC Venomous Villians - Maleficant

This is the second part of the new MAC collection, this is one of the collections that I pre-ordered from. The Maleficant collection appears to be one of the ones that will sell out the the quickest. This collection is based on shades of purples, which we already known is one of the largest trends for fall. "Maleficant from Sleeping Beauty. Brought to life in 1959. Toxic green skin. A darkly diabolical horned beauty with Hepburn eye brows. She's the self-proclaimed "Mistress of All Evil".

Here is Maleficant!

Venomous Villians Mineralize Eye Shadow Duo - A combination of two menacingly stylish Mineralize Eye Shadow shades in one compact pick up the wickedly dark look and feel of the MAC Venomous Villians collection. Limited edition.

- My Dark Magic - deep pink with pink pearl/deep plum with purple pearl

- She Who Dares - deep navy with blue pearl/deep forest green with lime green pearl

Venomous Villians Lipstick- As wonderfully wicked as its iconic inspiration, a Lipstick specially shaded and packaged for the MAC Venomous Villians collection. Limited edition.

- Violetta - bright clean violet purple

- Dark Deed - burgundy plum

Venomous Villians Lipglass - As wonderfully wicked as its iconic inspiration, a Lipglass specially shaded and packaged for the MAC Venomous Villians collection. Limited edition.

- Wrong Spell - deep plum with pink purple

- Revenge is Sweet - light yellow purple

Venomous Villians Beauty Powder - A special limited edition Beauty Powder featuring the silky, light pearled finish unique to this formula but specially shaded for the Venomous Villians collection.

- Briar Rose - soft violet pink with pearl

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

- Bad Fairy - red with red multi-changing pearl

- Formidable! - teal green with pink multi-changing pearl

- Mean & Green - purple with teal multi-changing pearl

I pre-ordered the Nail Lacquer in Mean & Green but I was very close to getting Formidable!. In fact, if it is still there I will get it when I get up there. I think that this collection is very pretty but I thought that many of the lip shades were just too deep for me to pull off. The only other item that I would like to get from this collection is the Beauty Powder in Briar Rose after I see how close it is in shade to the Beauty Powder from A Rose Romance.

photo courtesy of MAC

MAC Venomous Villians - Dr. Facilier

The wait is over and now you can get Venomous Villians online and at the counters very soon. Alas, much of it was sold out during the pre-order so I have no clue what is left over to buy anymore. I am very glad that I placed an order two weeks ago during the pre-order time because I am sure that what I really wanted is going to be gone very soon. This collection is divided into four smaller collections, one for each of the four selected Disney villians.

The first collection that we are looking at is that of Dr. Facilier. "Dr. Facilier, the voodoo witch doctor from The Princess and The Frog. Created in 2009. Nothing is sacred to this dandy who has stolen moves from the King of Pop and a hairdo from the Godfather of Soul".

Here is the new collection...

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

- Melon - soft bright golden peach

- Brash & Bold - bright magenta

- Push the Edge - deep bright purple with pearl

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 smoke-like shadow. Long-wearing. Transfer and water-resistant. Limited edition.

- French Quarter - dirty black green with multi colour pearl

- Slick Black - true carbon black

Zoom Fast Black Lash - Deeply dark drama. Same as Zoom Lash, but with carbon black pigment. Saturates lashes with the richest black ever. Creamy, velvetly formula builds density and conditions. Feels supple, light, flexible. Ultra-sculpted brush embraces and separates each lash, hugging every curve.

- Black - deepest black

Venomous Villians Lipgelee - A Lipgelee specially selected and packaged for the dark and deliberately unisex MAC Venomous Villians/Dr. Facilier collection. Limited edition.

- Resort Life - off white with gold pearl

Venomous Villians Magically Cool Liquid Powder - A silky, feather-light powder, formulated with 70% water, dusts onto the skin as a cooling mist to set and enhance the look of any foundation. Beyond sheer: light-reflecting and translucent. A virtually invisible way to add luminosity and a soft radiant glow to the skin. Limited edition.

- Truth & Light - sheer shimmer that reflects silver and pink

- Cajun - sheer bronze shimmer that reflects gold

Venomous Villians I'm so Vain Mirror - A round black compact featuring two mirrors: one regular and other magnifying for those essential lip and lash checks. A must have for all perfectionists. Lid features Disney's Villian of vain, Dr. Facilier. Limited edition.

I didn't pre-order any pieces of this part of the collection. The product that I tried out from this collection is the Magically Cool Liquid Powder. It really does have a cooling feel to the skin and is wonderful going on. I decided not to pre-order this but I might pick this up in the Truth & Light shade when I go to pick my order. I like the Melon Pigment from this collection and the new Lipgelee. This wasn't really one fo the collections that I was most interested in when I set my pre-order.

photo courtesy of MAC

MAC Venomous Villians is up!

The collections are up on the MAC website right now! I will be following up with further photos and descriptions in the next few days and will be picking up my pre-order right after work on Thursday. Enjoy!

photo courtesy of MAC

Valentino Rock N' Rose

I have no idea why I haven't reviewed this fragrance earlier, I have a giant bottle of it that I have been using for over three years now. I bought Valentino's Rock N' Rose after trying it only once, it was love at first sniff. I not only bought it right away, I bought the biggest bottle that it was offered in. Which is why I can still be working on the same bottle for several years. This is the sexiest rose fragrance that I own, it's still floral and pretty but has a darker undertone so it can still be worn with a black dress and pumps to go out at night.

The Neiman Marcus website states the following about the fragrance, "The fragrance is inspired by a new generation of young Valentino women. She is a modern woman, who combines a Rock n' Roll attitude with elegance and style. She is a Rose on the outside and a Rocker on the inside". The top notes are: Bergamot, Black Currant, Crunch Green. The middle notes are: Orange Blossom, Gardenia, Muguet, Rose. The base notes are: Sandalwood, Orris, Musky Notes, Vanilla, Heliotrope. I think that the strongest notes are the rose and the black currant. After several hours, vanilla and heliotrope are the strongest notes and the ones that I smell all day long.

I get many compliments on this fragrance, from both friends and random people on the street. This is longest lasting rose fragrance that I own and is one of the few that I have tried that lasts from the morning to the end of the day. I love the round pink bottle and how pretty it looks sitting out. Neiman Marcus also has an exclusive version of thei fragrance that come covers in black lace and I think is even more beautiful. The store also carries it in a body lotion, which is my next purchase from this fragrance.

photo courtesy of Neiman Marcus

Trish McEvoy Fall 2010 Collection - The Power of Beauty

The Trish McEvoy website had just been launched in the past few months so this is the first time that I have really been able to look at new collections. The new collection is named The Power of Beauty and seems as though it contains neutral, work wearable shades for all women. This is my first time ever looking at products from this company so I don't really know what all to expect in general.

Here we go...

Beauty Emergency Card for Eyes - Touch up or create total eye definition on-the-go. Trish's 8-color eyes palette gives you infinite possibilites - from highlighting, contouring, and defining to custom brows - in the palm of your hand. This set includes - Peach Shell Eye Shadow, Glaze Eye Shadows in new Gilded Bronze, new Gilded Taupe, Rose Quartz, Sugar Plum, and White Peach, Deep Aubergine Eye Definer, and new Natural Eye Definer/Brow Shaper.

Instant Eye Lift - Brighten the under-eye area and smooth fine lines with this new-generation under-eye enhancer. Trish McEvoy Instant Eye Lift is an innovative under-eye brightener and line-filler for the rested, lifted look every woman wants.

Liquid Face Color - Lend your cheeks a carefree dose of long-lasting, ultra-natural color with Trish's complexion-enhancing Liquid Face Color in a convenient, high-performing makeup pen. Weightless fluid formula gives your cheeks a sheer wash of color that appears to come from within. Achieve perfect placement with the travel-friendly, mistake-proof click pen brush applicator, for total control of where and when you blush. The shade shown on the website is a pink hue.

Instant Pick-Me-Up Lips Shimmer - Trish McEvoy's NEW Instant Pick-Me-Up Lips Shimmer is an innovative, long-wearing, shimmer-infused lip stain that goes on glossy then adapts to lips' own perfect shade of brightening pink.

I guess it time to try some items out from this company, however does anyone know of a counter that is closer than Manhatten? Maybe in King of Prussia? I really need to get to a counter and play with some of these items, all the descriptions sound like items that I would love but I have no experience or frame of reference with this brand. If I were to order an item from the website untested, I would buy the Beauty Emergency Card for Eyes.

photo courtesy of Trish McEvoy

Illamasqua Fall 2010 Collection - Art of Darkness

Illamasqua is known as the brand that provides makeup for "your alter ego" so I am expecting very deep, dramatic shades from this company for this fall collection. I have already been experimenting with more dramatic (for me) lip colors so I want to see what my alter ego will be wearing on nights out this fall.

Illamasqua states, "Deep in an enchanted forest, the scene is set for a sumptuous feast. The chosen have arrived. Where this night will end no one knows. Not even death is inevitable. Lured by the promise of immortality, a host of fantastical beings try their hand at creating the ever-elusive Elixir of Life. The resulting potions dazzle the eye and ensnare the senses; a beautiful array of jewel-like substances. They may not deny mortality, but they do make the theatre of life a more colourful stage on which to play. It's a melting pot of individuals, where ideas are exchanged, and new ones created. A surreal gathering from which the guests might never awake. Which is why this night can never end, and the game must be played for eternity. So take your place at the table and let the banquet begin. This is the Art of Darkness". Intense...

Here is the collection...

4-Liquid Metal Palette 02 - Containing the three new stunning Liquid Metal shades for Autumn Winter, complemented by the intense gold of Solstice, this indispensible palette is the perfect way to experience the lavishness of Art of Darkness. Apply with fingers or a brush to eyes, face, and body, to dazzle and delight.

Art of Darkness Nail Varnish Set - Containing the new shades Scarab and Viridian, plus best-selling shades Phallic and Boosh, this set is a must. As well as a great saving, you'll enjoy beautifully bejeweled nails all season long. So follow The King's example and don't deny yourself. Hardwearing and chip resistant, apply two coats for intensity and use with Illamasqua Nail Base Coat and Illamasqua Nail Top Coat for the perfect finish.

False Eye Lashes No. 26 - Illamasqua's most daring lashes to date, these feathered creations will add unmissable impact to any look, regardless of gender. Individually handmade and wonderfully soft, they're a true work of art.

Intense Lip Gloss - Come out of the shadows with high-shine, colour-rich Illamasqua Intense Lip Gloss in a wide range of bold colours. Create lips that look full and glossy, without feeling sticky. Draw attention to your lips, and to you.

- Hermetic - deep wine red

Lipstick - Let your lips speak volumes. Indulge in colour-intense lipstick with a highly pigmented formula, available in a choice of flawless finishes, from matte to glossy. Illamasqua Lipstick glides on smoothly, for the perfect all-night pout.

- Disciple - deep navy with matte finish (EU only)

Liquid Metal - Prepare to dazzle with this gloriously rich and highly pigmented metallic cream. Use to adorn eyes, face, and body, and apply with fingers or a brush. Release your inhibitions and illuminate your alter ego.

- Stotic - metallic emerald

- Resolute - deep metallic red

- Superior - deep metallic navy blue

Nail Varnish - Leave your mark with bold, rich, vibrant colours. Hardwearing and chip-resistant with individual finishes from matte to high gloss. Apply two coats for intensity and use with Illamasqua Nail Base Coat and Illamasqua Nail Top Coat for the perfect finish. Talk with your hands and make a statement.

- Scarab - deep ruby red with metallic finish

- Viridian - deep green with metallic finish

Powdered Metal - Reveal in an intense radiance that no one can ignore. Apply to body and face to create anything from a subtle sheen to an extreme metallic finish. Step into the limelight and demand to be noticed.

- Ether - pale gold shimmer

Precision Ink - Create looks with attitude that no one can ignore. Precision Ink's fine tip allows for defined application. Long-lasting and waterproof, it's perfect for use anywhere on the face and body to bring out your bold side.

- Abyss - gloss black

- Alchemy - antique gold

Pure Pigment - Made to be played with. A metallic, high-shine, pure-colour powder that highlights eyes, cheeks, and brows. Mix with eye shadow, blusher, or use on its own to intense effect. Bring out your bold side.

- Ore - rich russet brown

- Alluvium - iridescent midnight blue

I think that this is my favorite collection of this whole season, I am in love! My favorite product is the one that I have pictured, the 4-Liquid Metal Palette and I also love the Hermetic shade of Intense Lip Gloss. I am also craving both new shades of Nail Varnish, the new shade of the Powdered Metal, and both Precision Inks. I think my alter ego is ready to come out this season...

photo courtesy of Illamasqua

Bath and Body Works Black Amethyst

Exciting things are going down at Bath and Body works this fall. First Dark Kiss was released and now the company has redesigned the packaging of another Sexy, Black Amethyst, in order to update it and pick up on the purple trend that has been the rage this fall. I already owned products from this fragrance but in the older packaging, I wish that I had waited a bit and gotten the pretty new packaging to display on my dresser. Oh well, I still love the fragrance...

Bath and Body Works states, "Master perfumers have seductively layered a sophisticated blenx of Italian bergamot and rare camellias with exotic sandalwood and a surprising twist of vetiver in this hypnotic fine fragrance, inspired by chic, sensual, and confident women. Winner: WWD Beauty Biz's Breakthrough Product of the Year/Mass Fragrance, December 2008".

The top notes are: Bergamot Italian Oprur, Juicy Mandarin, Sparkling Tangerine, Zesty Orange, Waterfruits, Crisp Melon. The middle notes are: Lily of the Valley, Magnolia Blossom, Sheer Gardenia, Tuberose, Freesia, Peony Petals, Camellia. The base notes are: Patchouli, Sandalwood, Vetiver, Vanilla, Musk.

This is fragrance is one of Bath and Body Works' best! It reminds me very much of Tom Ford's Black Orchid and smells very classy and expensive. The notes that come out the strongest on my skin are the Tuberose, the Magnolia Blossom, the Camellia, and the Vetiver. My only complaint with this this EDT is that it doesn't last as long as I wish that it would.

I originally purchased the shower gel and body lotion in this fragrance when it was first introduced two years ago. I really liked the lotion but I hated the scent of the shower gel. It smelled almost like a men's cologne, it was so sharp and strong. This is one of the few gels that actually stays on my skin well after I rinse it off in the morning. This time around, I purchased the EDT, the Triple Moisture Body Cream, the Body Lotion, and the Triple Moisture Shower Cream. The Triple Moisture Shower Cream smells more of the florals and is a much softer scent than the gel does. This fragrance is also available in the Body Mist and the Bubble Bath, the mist is much too light for this fragrance to really develop and the bubble bath smells exactly like the the gel.

Based off the Sexys collection, I am actually looking forward to Bath and Body Works' release of Secret Wonderland in the very beginning of November.

photo courtesy of Bath and Body Works

Most Wanted Best of Beauty 2010

My favorite issue of Allure came in the mail the other day...the Best of Beauty issue! I always find new products that I want to try out. I must thank the staff of Allure for trying out hundreds of products for this issue so that I don't have to!

The products that passed the test!


- Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow/Liner in Birthday Suit
- Laura Mercier Lustre Eye Colour in Celestial
- Dior Style Liner Intense Liquid Eye Liner
- Tom Ford Lip Color in Bruised Plum
- Bb Bumble and Bumble Mending Hair Masque
- Living Proof No Frizz Straight Making Styling Cream
- Dr. Brandt Pores No More Vacuum Cleaner
- Giorgio Armani Beauty Lasting Silk Foundation
- O.P.I. Nail Lacquer in Malaga Wine
- Chloe Eau de Fleurs Capucine

Dermalogica Ultra Calming Cleanser

Several weeks ago, I reviewed the new face mist from the Ultra Calming line from Dermalogica. I finished up using the face cleanser (that was sent to me from a PR company) about a week ago so it is now time for me to fully talk about this product. So far (of the two products in this line that I have reviewed) this cleanser is my favorite in the line. The Ultra Calming line of face care is targeted toward sensitive skin and works to treat and manage the causes that lay behind the redness reaction.

The International Dermal Institute has determined that sensitized skin responses may stem from both a "compromised epidermal barrier and inflammatory responses". Two major types of inflammatory responses have already been identified. The first is immunogenic inflammation - "when skin is under assault, localized skin cells are alerted and activated to fight off the invader. This allergic reaction in skin triggers redness, soreness, and itchiness". The second is neurogenic inflammation - "whereas immunogenic inflammation is triggered by the immune system, neurogenic inflammation is triggered by the nervous system. When an irritant chemical activates nerve sensors, it results in the release of substances that also trigger the inflammatory cascade, resulting in redness, soreness, and itchiness".

"All five UltraCalming products feature the highly-effective, proprietary UltraCalming complex. This multi-benefit complex includes active ingredients that mediate immunogenic and neurogenic inflammatory triggers for immediate and long-term relief of inflamed, sensitized skin. It also includes botanicals and peptides that help mimic skin's natural protection barrier, helping to strengthen skin cell structure against water loss and defend against dehydration-induced sensitization."

This cleanser is described as "A soothing, pH-balanced gel/cream that glides easily over face and eyes to cleanse without stripping skin's protective barrier. Helps calm and cool the redness, heat and discomfort of rosacea, sensitized, or highly reactive skin. Easily rinses away or wipes off, making it ideal for skin so sensitized it cannot tolerate water. Contains no artifical fragrance or color." This cleanser has a smooth, creamy texture and does not foam at all on application. This cleanser did not strip or dry out my skin, leaving it soft and smooth. I have never tried to use this product to take my eye makeup off so I can't comment on how well it works in this application but I can state that it works very well to get my facial makeup off.

This product contains many ingredients to treat sensitive skin. The UltraCalming Complex helps to reduce sensitivity, redness, irritation, and inflammation. Raspberry Fruit Extract is a soothing extract that helps calm sensitive skin and aggravation. Lavender Fruit Extract is a naturally antiseptic extract and helps soothe and purify the skin. Coneflower helps to calm skin. Cucumber Fruit Extract is an extract with cooling agents that help to soothe and calm irritated skin. Pro-Vitamin B5 aids in skin repair and hydration.

This skin cleanser is up there with many of the high quality B. Kamins products for sensitive, reddened skin. I am looking forward to trying out the other products that I was sent from this line based on how high quality these two have been so far.

photo courtesy of Dermalogica

Clinique Fall 2010 Collection - Fall Trend 2010

Clinique's newest collection for fall is a very unique concept. Instead of the usual deep eye and lip shades, this company is all about brightening eyes in order to make the wearer their most attractive no matter what season it is. The new collection is called Fall Trend 2010 and Clinique gives the following description of the collection, "Clinique's limited-edition collection of brighteners and definers plays up eyes for 3 bright looks: Fresh, Fun, Flirty".

"It's not your eyes playing tricks on you. Clinique's limited-edition collection of brighteners and definers work together to recharge your look. High Impact Mascara in new limited edition Brightening Black makes eyes look brighter - it's clinically proven. Add new limited-edition Quickliner For Eyes Intense and the dramatic contrast draws even more attention. Quick Eyes Cream Shadow and Colour Surge Eye Shadow give lids a colourful lift. And - talk about brillance - everything's ophthamologist tested, appropriate even for sensitive eyes".

The new products...

High Impact Mascara - New richly pigmented shade gives eyes instant brightening power - it's clinically proven. Kicks up the volume and length of each and every lash for a look that's lusher, plusher, bolder. Pure, deep colour only adds to the impact. Wear it once and you'll feel naked without it. Ophthamologist tested.

- Black - black

- Black/Brown - tawny

Quickliner For Eyes Intense - Favourite automatic eye liner pencil now in richly pigmented shades for instant intensity. Glides on. Smudges to a smooth blur of colour with the convenient smudge tool on opposite end. Needs no sharpening - silky formula is always ready to line and define with ease. Stays on all day. Ophthamologist tested.

- Intense Chocolate - brown

- Intense Plum - deep plum

- Intense Black - deep black

First thought - this line will sell very well! Every woman wants to look more awake and have bright eyes and the shades of these new products are very easy to work into any look. Also these products are going to be very easy for any associate at Clinique to add on a sale. I am really interested in the new Black shade of the mascara and all three of the new eye liners. It will be interesing to see if other companies follow in the footsteps of Clinique in the new few months.

photo courtesy of Clinique

Cleanse Your Soul Halloween Fragrances

Since I have been on the subject of body products and independent etailers... Look at the new Halloween fragrances from Cleanse Your Soul. This etailer is tops for thick body creams and sugar scrubs. This is one of the places that I turn to for any kind of scrub that I need...and at one point I had them all colored bright pink... This company has just released their newest Halloween limited edition fragrances and now that fall is in the air, it is time to get lots of new body products.

Here are the new fragrances...

All Treats, No Tricks - Milk chocolate, caramel apples, a hint of gum drops, and orange candy.

Apparition - Bourbon de Vanille blended with creamy sandalwood and a hint of musk.

Sweet Popcorn Balls - Kettle corn and marshmellow popcorn balls!

Autumn Linen - Fresh linen, clean air, and crunchy fall leaves.

Haunted Apples - Patchouli, vanilla bean, cedar planks, and crisp red apples.

Gummy Bats - Sour lime, tart cherries, and marshmellow.

All Hallow's Breakfast - Gingerbread pancakes topped with pumpkin whipped cream, with a big mug of apple cider and hazelnut coffee.

Monster Bread - Vanilla nut bread topped with pumpkin marshmellow icing.

Black Cat Prowl - Black licorice marshmellow cream blended with patchouli.

All Hallow's Eve Cake - Marble poundcake frosted with tart red apple buttercream frosting.

Eat, Drink, and Be Scary - Black cherry cola, pie crust, and caramel apples.

A Clear Midnight - Garden mint blended with fresh night air scent and a wisp of pumpkin.

I can't wait to order some fun Halloween fragrances from here to use this season! I am going to order All Treats, No Tricks, Sweet Popcorn Balls, Haunted Apple, All Hallow's Breakfast, Monster Bread, and All Hallow's Eve Cake. I recommend the Foaming Body Scrub and the body Cream from this brand. I like the Shower Gel but I want to try the newer 3 in 1 in hopes that I can get a wash with a creamier texture.

photo courtesy of Cleanse Your Soul

Paul & Joe Lipstick C

Feline fever is raging and hot this season! First the MAC collection whetted our appetites and now the super cute Paul and Joe Lipstick C collection is available for pre-order. I have seen these lipsticks in almost every magazine so far this fall and am looking forward to buying some of these too. The lipsticks in this collection all are shaped liked cat heads and are almost too cute to even use. The crazy cat lady in me is coming out this season.

"Paul & Joe's NEW Lipstick C delicately designed a cat into the lipstick itself to incorporate Paul & Joe designer and creator, Sophie Albou's, favorite animal. This luscious Lipstick C is available in three head turning shades, the perfect compliment to your autumn attire. Packaged in adorable tubes inspired by Paul & Joe's latest fashion collection, Lipstick C combines beautiful colors with a creamy texture. Formulated with the perfect amount of Paul & Joe's Secret D'or formula and combined with several select varieties of champagne gold frost, lips will glisten in the glow of midnight and appear soft with a highly translucent sparkled that lasts."

This lipstick is available in three new shades. The first shade is Clair de Lune (066): a graceful, soft pink that is effortlessly classic with any look. The second shade is Over the Moon (067): a soft orange hue that is soft and graceful enough for any skin tone. The last new shade is Moon Shadow (068): and understated red with a pearl finish. My two favorite shades are the Clair de Lune and Moon Shadow.

I have read that the ears of the cat will be ideal lip liners and then the head can be used to fill in the color. Personally I am just in love with the cuteness of these lipsticks...

photo courtesy of Beauty Habit

Too Faced Fall 2010 Collection - Get Naked

Based on the popularity of last year's Neutral Eye Palette, Too Faced has released the Naked Eye Palette this season. In fact, the whole fall collection is called Get Naked and is based around this eye palette. Most the debate this season has been around what product is superior, the Too Faced Naked Eye Palette of the Urban Decay. So far, I like the Too Faced palette but I think that the Urban Decay one is much nicer.

Here is the collection...

Naked Eye Kit - Looking like you rolled out of bed flawless and fabulous is a celebrity secret and one that careers have been built on! Now, you too can look like you were born perfect with our gorgeous collection of naturally nude shadows that will have you looking super neutral yet drop-dead-gorgeous for any occasion. Shhh! Nobody needs to know you didn't wake up that way! Contains the following eye shadow shades: In The Buff, Birthday Suit, , Pink Cheeks, Pillow Talk, Satin Sheets, Lap Dance, Like a Virgin, Unmentionables, Stiletto.

Lashgasm Mascara - Lashgasm is a voluptuous, fluffing mascara that conditions as it thickens to create dramatically long lashes with intense color. Our unique, flexible molded brush grabs lashes from all sides for a climax of length and volume.

- Black - black

Leopard Love Complexion Perfection - Bronze, blush, and brighten with this all-in-one complexion perfection containing three purrfect shades to complement any pretty kitty's skin tone. Our best-selling Pink Leopard Bronzer shines bright, while two NEW combinations offer a dangerously sexy glow.

- Peach Leopard - offers a soft and healthy, naturally apricot glow

- Candy Leopard - pink tones promotes a luminous, flush pop of color

- Pink Leopard - golden bronze and gilded pinks brighten any complexion

Absolutely Flawless Concealer - Banish imperfections and erase stubborn dark circles while customizing your coverage from sheer to full with this peptide and vitamin rich, luxurious formulation. Available in three shades suitable for all skintones.

Primed and Poreless Powder - Primed & Poreless Powder turns any foundation into high definition makeup. Our silky, translucent finishing powder adjusts to any skin tone while minimizing the appearance of pores and fine lines. Our weightless powder can be worn alone, or under and over foundation to prep skin, lockdown makeup and control shine for a complexion smoothing, flawless finish.

Powder Pouf Brush - Developed with the professional makeup artist in mind, this cruelty-free, cashmere soft powder brush blends any face powder formula for an even, airbrushed finish.

Amazing Face SPF Foundation - Go from sheer to natural, to full and flawless, with our flexible coverage foundation. Our good-for-you, long-wearing formula offers the ultimate fusion of skincare benefits, sun protection, and makeup innovation. Weightless pigments float over imperfections to minimize to appearance of pores and fine lines, while instantly improving tone and texture. Available in five shades to suit all skin tones.

I may find the Urban Decay palette to be superior but I wouldn't mind owning the Too Faced one too. I like that this company provides eye looks on cards in this palette and how to apply the shades to create various eye lookes. I really like the Leopard Love Complexion Perfection and want to try all the new facial products. And of course that mascara...

photo courtesy of Sephora

MAC Pro Longwear Lip Creme

Lip Creme is the second group of product that was released to the counters this week. I can see this product being huge for this season with all the prominent lip looks that are the rage. I am really getting into the Longwear lip color since I have been spending most of this season so far reapplying my lipstick. "Introducing a new generation in Longwear technology. Hours later, lips look just the way you left them in the mirror that morning - luscious, lustrous, and fresh, in frost or cream texture with flexible film-former to provide transfer resistance for extended-play passion!" Lip color that goes from Friday morning work to Friday night play? I'm in!

Pro Longwear Lip Creme - Lightweight texture, creamy finish and comfortable longwear combine in this has-it-all pro-class lip colour. Slick in use, applies without the need of a top coat - and still lasts for up to 12 hours. Won't feather or transfer, and the colour stays true. Helps lips stay soft and hydrated.

- Overtime - light baby pink

- Sweet Ever After - copper frost

- Til Tommorrow - greyed mauvy brown

- Unlimited - muted dirty rose

- Good To Go - loudmouth orange

- Love Forever! - bright blue pink

- Goes and Goes - blue violet

- Perpetual Flame - pink cranberry

- Prolong - true red

- Extended Play - blackened brick red

- Made To Last - deep plumy brown

- Faithfully Yours - blackened dirty purple

I am so ready to try this new shades out. My top choices are Unlimited, Prolong, Extended Play, and Overtime. I am just hoping that these stay creamy all throughout the day and don't need me to top up with clear lip balm several times.

photo courtesy of MAC

MAC Pro Longwear Foundation and Concealer

This past week, MAC released several of their Pro products to the counters in order for all their fans to have access to the highest quality formulas and shades. The first release in the one that we are looking at today, the Longwear Foundation and Concealer. The MAC website states, "In the world of Pro Longwear, Foundation and Concealer carry the show with creamy, medium buildable coverage right through to a flawless, natural finish. Marathon makeup to go, made from microionized pigments to promote the smoothest application and colour purity."

Here are the new products...

Pro Longwear Concealer - A lightweight fluid concealer that provides medium to full coverage with a comfortable, natural matte finish. Colour-true formula lasts up to 15 hours. Helps conceal and correct the look of under eye circles, and discolorations. Comes in a clear glass vial with a matte black pump. Available in 15 shades to suit all complexions.

Pro Longwear SPF 10 Foundation - A long-wear foundation that gives up to 15 hours of wear in any environmental condition. Lightweight and creamy, applies smoothly to provide sheer to medium coverage. Even in hot and humid conditions, controls oil to keep skin fresh, natural, and flawless. Provides everyday SPF protection. Available in 16 shades to suit all complexions.

190 Foundation Brush - Pro-quality. A foundation brush designed to create a smooth, even finish. Works well with any MAC foundation, including Studio Fix and Studio Tech. Use to apply, distribute, and blend foundation into all areas of the face.

195 Concealer Brush - A flexible synthetic fibre flat brush with a slight pointed tip for precise application and blending of all concealer formulas and other emollient products.

I wish these formulas would have come out in the beginning of the summer, I needed something like these during the heat waves that we had several months ago. I like the concealer in the pump bottle so that I can regulate the amount that I need to use down to the last drop.

photo courtesy of MAC

Rosebud Salve

If there ever was a one-size-fits-all cult product created, this one would win the award. I have used Rosebud Salve for years and so have many of my friends. All of us had differnt skin types and tones and all different makeup styles but this is the one product that we can all agree on and use on a daily basis. For me, this product is mainly used as a lip balm but I have tried it out on my cuticles and under my nose when the skin gets raw from tissues. I have never been disappointed at it's performance.

The Sephora website states, "This cult-favorite, multi-purpose lip balm soothes dry lips, calms and heals irritation, and soothes the sting of minor burns. Try dabbing on dry elbows or knees to condition, and reliever dryness. Also an excellent remedy for the treatment of diaper rash". I have never used it as a diaper rash cream and hopefully never will but all of the other listed uses are accurate. I find this lip balm to be very soothing to my dry, cracked lips in the winter because of the calming effects of the rose extract. It smells faintly of rose so I adore the fragrance but if someone really hates rose then this is not the product for them.

The original rose formula has been available for years but the company recently updated the product a bit by offering two new versions of the balm. The first is the Minted Rose Lip Balm, which delivers the same hydrating benefits but with a minty tingle. On my lips, this product appears as a red stain so I do not advise trying it out on any other part of the body. With the mint oil in it, I also do not recommend this for chapped, dry skin because it might irritate more than heal. The second new option is the strawberry formula and is lightly scented with sweet strawberries. Again, with the fragrance in it, it may not be fully suitable for use on any area other than the lips. This one appears to be more on the pink side, so I doubt that it has the same amount of pigment as the Mint version.

I own the traditional and mint versions and I bought them so long ago that I don't remember where I got them or even how long they take to finish. I know that I got the Mint version sometime in 2007 and the original before that and I am just beginning to hit the bottom on them. There is a huge amount of product packed into that little container and I will be using them for years to come since they perform every single time that I apply them.

photo courtesy of Sephora

Bathed and Infused Fall 2010 Fragrances

Bathed and Infused is one of the independant body product lines that I frequent when I am looking for fragrances that aren't carried in the retail world. With several hundred fragrances, this is a company that you can find any type of fragrance at. Another great feature of this little company is that they hold "Design the Line" contests every season so if there is a fragrance that they don't have and that you are looking for, you can design it and submit your ideas. This is the first round of fragrances for fall, the "Design the Line" contest is still being held.

Here are the fragrances that are out for this season so far...

Purple Pumpkin - This is one sweet smelling secret weapon! This is a beautful blend of pumpkin, vanilla bean, and smooth lavender that reportedly drives men wild. don't say we didn't warn you!

Caramel Apple Cider - This is not your ordinary apple cider. This tart cider blend is swirled with creamy, ooey, gooey caramel to make it sweet and totally irresistable! Two Fall treats in one - bottoms up!

Great White Pumpkin - The ever elusive Great White Pumpkin is rarely seen and almost never caught. Creamy pumpkin and sweet vanilla meld together for a perfect cool weather blend.

Nut Cart - The aroma of sweet roasted nuts floating through the chilly autumn air is enough to warm your soul and bring a smile to your face.

Pumpkin Cremasse - It's back! We couldn't wait for Halloween to bring this one back. Our wildly popular Cremasse meets sweet pumpkin. What could be better than sweet milk, coconut, cinnamon, and pumpkin? It's the epitome of Fall.

Pumpkin Crumble - Creamy pumpkin, mellow spice, fluffy yellow cake, and crumble topping. This sweet pumpkin will make your mouth water.

Yellow Silk - Buttery, rich, velvety, and sweet, this blend belongs together. Sugar, coconut, banana, and buttery creams for a decadent treat.

Baby Be Mine - All the sweetness that is a baby. Cuddly soft scent of baby powder, touches of gentle lavender, chamomile, vanilla milk, and Ivory Soap.

Black Gold - Gold that burns with a dark fire. An intriguing blend of Black Cashmere and 24 Karat.

Can't Elope - Don't get nervous, let our combination of melon, pear, apple, and mint refresh you.

Coconut Ginger Cream - This decadent dessert merges the ending of summer with the rich scents of fall. Rich vanilla ice cream swirled with pieces of crystallized ginger candy with a shaving of coconut to top it off.

Cranberry Gone South - Headed south at the first signs of Fall in an attempt to beat the crowds, Cranberry met Mandarin! The result 9 months later? A delightful marriage of sweet, sunny oranges and crisp, tangy cranberries. What a bundle of joy!

Dawn's Dessert - A treat fit for Eos, the goddess of dawn: fluffy marshmellow sandwiched between sugar cookies, dipped in creamy white chocolate, and sprinkled with cherry-infused sugary dewdrops!

Fizzy Lemon Tea Cola - Iced tea with lemons mixed with fizzy cola!

Flannel Pajamas - Cool weather mean it's time to break out those warm, cuddly pajamas! This cozy scent combines French lavender, creamy vanilla, and a hint of cedar resting on a base of soft powder.

Forum Fridays - The excitement is brewing as everyone frantically scans the forum for their coupon goldmine! 24 Karat gold those coupons are... with a little limoncello, raspberry, and peach bellini... missing out on those coupons drives you to drink.

Luini's Lover - In 1525, a Saronno church commissioned Bernadino Luini in painting their sanctuary with frescos. Luini was in need of a model, and found more than artistic inspiration in a young widowed innkeeper. They fell in love, and as a gift, she created a lovely concoction known today as Amaretto. To reflect of love which was so aflame, we think that the fire of Scorched is a perfect addition to this amorous liquor.

Pajama Party - When the summer is over and it gets all rainy and cold outside, call your girls, take out your cutest pajamas, and pop in a movie! Now all you need is a slice of white cake, a bag of fluffy marshmellows and some Blueberry Bubblegum and let the party begin!

Pumpkin Joyeux - Crisp autumn air and long, dark nights call for warm, cozy scents. This one is a blend of our famous Almond Joyeux and sweet pumpkin.

Roasted Pear Bellini - Toast to the sexy scents of Autumn, with a flute of Roasted Pear Bellini! A lovely fragrance featuring Warm Pear Nectar, Honey, and Champagne.

Silk Scarf - With its vibrant colors and smooth, cool texture, a silk scarf jazzes up and dull, fall outfit. Violets, strawberries, and lemon zest on a bed of bright greens.

Roasted Pear Bellini seems like it would be my favorite of the group this fall, I am hoping that it will be close to the Fall 2006 Pear fragrance that Bath and Body Works had out. Caramel Apple Cider looks like it will be a close second for me in the favorites category. Since it is that time of the year, I am also thinking of getting products in Yellow Silk. My favorite products from this company are the Body Scrub, the Body Fluff (thick cream), and the Body Lotion. As a word of advice, the Lotion is so thick that it reminds me more of a cream and the Fluff reminds me more of a butter, keep this is mind when ordering and you will thank me in the long run.

photo courtesy of Bathed and Infused

O.P.I. Fall 2010 Collection - Swiss Collection

I loved Switzerland when I visited there several years ago. I loved the Alps and the beautiful cities and would have willingly spend much more time there then I was able to. I still plan to get back there one day soon. "Beyond the borders of a classic neutral palette into a new zone where refined shades of rich color become the definitive go-to hues to wear everyday".

Here are the new shades...

- Color So Hot It Berns - bright orange red

- Just a Little Rosti at This - rust brown red

- From A to Z-urich - deep rose red

- Glitzerland - pale shimmering pink

- I'm Suzi & I'm a Chocoholic - deep chocolate brown

- Diva of Geneva - rich deep magenta

- The Color To Watch - pale lilac

- Lucerne-tainly Look Marvelous - pale shimmering silver

- Yodel Me On My Cell - bright robin's egg blue

- Ski Teal We Drop - deep teal cream

- Cuckoo for this Color - deep green

- William Tell Me About O.P.I. - deep black purple

This collection contains some great hues for fall! My favorite is the Ski Teal We Drop shade, the one that has been in many of the fashion magazines over the past month. This is the shade that is pictured here too. I think the shades that I would get the most wear after of would be the paler shades; The Color To Watch, Lucerne-tainly Look Marvelous, and Glitzerland. I really like Yodel Me On My Cell, Cuckoo for this Color, and From A to Z-urich.

I am still surprised that none of these shades have anything with the famed Lion of Lucerne but I love this whole collection.

photo courtesy of Amazon.com

Bath and Body Works Velvet Tuberose

As I mentioned earlier, I have been overhauling my living space and am constantly finding items that I had forgotten that I even purchased. Last night's cleaning unearthed a new find, a bottle of Bath and Body Works Velvet Tuberose EDT and matching body products. Velvet Tuberose came out at Holiday 2007 and I think is one of the most under-rated fragrances from this company. I rarely ever see it on tables or featured in the coupons. This fragrance was originally designed for the Bendel's on Fifth Avenue so this should give you an idea of the sophistication of the fragrance.

Velvet Tuberose falls into the "Sexys" collection at Bath and Body Works. "To compose the glamorous symphony of creamy florals and intoxicating spices, master perfumers have blended night-blooming white tuberose, ylang ylang, Indian jasmine, and rare diamond orchid". This fragrance smells heavily of tuberose and jasmine on me with a base of musk. Of all the fragrances that I have tried from this company, this one remains the strongest and lasts the longest.

The top notes are: Modern Citrus, Dewy Magnolia, Juicy Apricot, Ylang Ylang, Green. The middle notes are: Tuberose Accord, White Freesia, Tender Cyclamen, Diamond Orchid, Heady Gardenia, Indian Jasmine, Succlent Fig. The base notes are: Addictive Ambers, Sensual Sandalwood, Exotic Spices, Cashmere Accord, Warm Musks.

This fragrance is very elegant and is one of the nicest that has ever been released from Bath and Body Works. I have this product in the EDT, the Triple Moisture Body Cream, and the Shower Gel. I am really looking forward to wearingthis fragrance when I get dressed up this fall and into the holidays. I hope that Bath and Body Works continues to release fragrances in the Sexys line and that they have more fragrance that are intense, heady florals.

photo courtesy of Bath and Body Works

Estee Lauder Fall 2010 Collection - Blue Dahlia

This is the first time that I have looked at any collections from Estee Lauder, normally I just walk right by their counter in Macy*s and head right over to Dior and MAC. But since Tom Pecheux has been working with the creative department of this company, I have actually begun to like some of the colors that I am seeing at the counters and have decided to fully look through their new fall collection. The collection is named Blue Dahlia and the promotional picture is a very strong eye look using blue eye makeup colors. Might not totally be for me but it can't hurt to look and see what is new.

Here is the new collection...

Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup SPF 10 - 15 hour staying power. Flawless all day. This worry-free, long-wearing makeup stays fresh and looks natural through heat, humidity, nonstop activity. Won't change color, come off, or smudge or come off on clothes. Feels lightweight and comfortable. Now the flawless look you see in the morning is the look you keep all day. Available in a wide range of shades for all skin tones.

Estee Lauder Signature Satin Creme Blush - Creamy touch-on blush glides on sheer and satiny. Smoothes on as a creme, finishes as a luminous powder. Sculpts, highlights, adds dimension. Enchances skin's healthy glow with soft shimmer. Buildable, extended-wear color stays true. Won't streak or settle into fine lines.

- Nude Light - midtone neutral beige

Bronze Goddess Soft Matte Bronzer - Give yourself a heavenly glow with this silky, luminous powder bronzer. Works with virutally any skintone. Sweep it on the smooth, oil-free powder gives face, shoulders, and decolletage a seductive bronze look. Unique oil-control complex keeps skin shine-free and comfortable. One shade is suitable for all skintones.

Pure Color Five Color Eye Shadow Palette - Eye shadow that makes eyes come alive. Versatile 5-color palette allows you to play with intensities, mix and blend shades, express different attitudes - soft to bold. Holds 5 varying color intensities and finishes: matte, satin, shimmer, or metallic. The highlighter is the magic touch. Use it to brighten the look and widen eyes instantly. The deepest shade structures and defines the eyes. True Vision Color: maximized color impact; magnified vibrancy, clarity, and dimension; amplified brillance. High Performance Wear: color adheres velvety smooth, without creasing; blends easily; long-wearing, stays color true, won't fade. Sleek compact includes applicator and mirror.

- Blue Dahlia - shimmery nude/bright teal/medium taupe/deep navy/matte black

Sumptuous Bold Volume Lifting Mascara - Lift each lash with big, bold, weightless volume. Unprecedented Bold Volume formula has ultra light, lash-thickening fibers. Lifts and plumps even sparse lashes into big, lush lashes that are all lightness and flirtatious curl. The brush: exclusive BrushComber thickens like a brush, defines like a comb. Wraps your entire lash in air-light volume. Lashes soar with 360 degree lift and curl. The look: daringly full, sensuously curved, all-out seductive lashes. Now take you lashes all the way to big, bold, beautiful.

- Black - black

Pure Color Gloss Stick - Lipstick with a glossy attitude. Every shade brings your lips: the best possible shine, the smoothest finish, the power to plump and shade all in one sleek stick. Prismatic pearls add multi-dimensional volume and amplified light reaction. Melts onto lips with rich conditioners and soft shine. Provides an instant release of hydration and color - lips look shinier and fuller instantly. Lip-plumping technology improves lip condition creating a moist-plump fullness after 4 weeks of continuous use.

- Rose Dusk - light neutral pink beige

- Midnight Bloom - bright cool intense pink with opal shimmer

- Orchid Dream - light cool rose pink

- Night Bloom - warm peach pink

- Mauve Mirage - deep cool violet with gold shimmer

Pure Color Gloss - Lip gloss with the power to light up your face. TrueVision technology transforms ordinary color and makes it extraordinary. Imagine what it will do for your lips. In a wide range of wearable shades with lasting shine for a lasting impression. You'll want them all. True Vision Color: maximized color impact; magnified vibrancy, clarity, and dimension; amplified brillance. High Impact Finishes: each Pure Color Gloss comes in one of three distinct, multi-dimensional finishes: mirror shine, luminous shimmer, dimensional sparkle; all with 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.

- Twilight Pearl - warm beige (Sparkle)

- Midnight Bloom - cool deep plum (Shimmer)

- Star Pink - cool light lilac (Shimmer)

- Rock Candy - cool medium pink (Shimmer)

- Raspberry Pop - cool red-purple (Sparkle)

Pure Color Nail Lacquer - A luxurious brillance at your fingertips. Experience Pure Color: rich, glossy, quick-drying, and long-wearing; truly intense color is so shiny it looks wet - but don't be fooled; resists chipping even in water; won't fade, dull, or streak, even in strong sunlight. Brush makes it easy: specially designed brush shape makes application incredibly easy; just three strokes of color - middle, left, and right - and you're done.

- Blue Dahlia - bright navy blue

- Surreal Violet - shimmering gray lilac

I am pleasantly surprised with this collection! Many of these shades may not be for me, but I love the formulas and look of the collection. I think the eye palette is beautiful and as it comes out in other shades, I will be pouncing on one at the counter. I really like the lip products that are featured in this collection, from the Gloss Stick line, I want the Rose Dusk and Orchid Dream shades. From the Pure Color Glosses, I like the Twilight Pearl, the Midnight Bloom, and Star Pink shades. I am also lusting after the two new nail polish shades and I think that these are my top picks of the new collection. Looking forward to my first visit at this counter in Macy*s!

photo courtesy of Estee Lauder

Stila Fall 2010 Collection

The newest Stila collection appears to be a mish-mosh of new products that include primers, palettes, eye makeup, lip colors, and a new brush to top it all off. Already I have been combing Sephora and Ulta for the Traveling Girl palettes that have been released this season. I see a bunch of individual products that I like in this collection but I really don't see this as having more cohesion or a theme.

Here are the new items...

Traveling Girl Palette - Trendsetting in Tokyo - Introducing the newest limited edition Stila Girl Travel Palette, Trendsetting in Tokyo. Experience the bustling, fast-paced metropolis as you follow Zoe through her Tokyo adventure. Inspired by the neon lights and classic geisha trends, this palette will have you looking fashion-forward. This palette contains four eye shadows; Sake (beige with shimmer), Kawai (pink), Shibuya (blue), "Peace Sign" (black shimmer). The Convertable Color is Sakura (cherry blossom pink).

Traveling Girl Palette - Pretty in Paris - Introducing the newest limited edition Stila Girl Travel Palette, Pretty in Paris! Parisian women always look so effortlessly chic, stylish, and sophisticated. Inspired by Stila girl Chelsea's sojourn to the City of Light, our limited-edition Pretty in Paris travel palette captures the joie de vivre of the city. You get 4 distinct-yet-complementary eye shadows and a harmonizing, dual lip-and-cheek cream that will have you looking tres manifique! This palette contains four eye shadows; Crepe (pale pink), Cherie (reddish brown), Jolie (brownish pink), Chocolat (brown). The Convertable Color is Rosebud (rose).

One Step Correct - Swirl your way to perfect skin in one step! This innovative, triple-swirled helix serum instantly color corrects, brightens, and covers skin imperfections for a flawless face with no fuss. This primer, color corrector, brightener and anti-aging skincare serum does it all with the help of Stila's Youth Revival Bio-Available Mineral Complex. Magician: Instantly makes imperfections disappear. Multitasker: Reduces fine lines, wrinkles, pore, and pigmentation. Miracle Worker: Hydrates, controls oil, and improves skin texture. This revolutionary new product contains 3 color-correcting brighteners: Green tone instantly neutralizes redness and conceals blemishes; Lavender tone counteracts sallow undertones for a vibrant, energized look; Peach tone brightens, illuminates, and helps diminish the appearance of sun spots. The weightless, creamy formula blends imperceptibly into skin and won't clog pores or settle into fine lines...so all anyone will notice is your perfectly flawless skin!

Custom Color Blush - Why settle for "almost the right shade" of blush? This perceptive one-shade-fits-all powder blush reacts with your skin's pH to create a one-of-a-kind, customized shade perfect for you! This ultra-blendable, velvety soft formula magincally smoothes the appearance of fine lines, pores, and pigmentation, leaving skin with a luminous, flawless flush. The blush contains a spherical silicone elastomer treated powder that provides a soft focus effect and diffuses light. There is a silky feeling leaving skin soft and smooth. The silicone treated powder fills in fine lines and wrinkles on the skin, making it appear more youthful. The weightless powder can be layered to achieve just the right color and coverage. No more guessing or wearing the wrong shade of blush. Reacts to the wearer's pH to create the perfect shade everytime. Harmonizes with your skin tone to enhance your natural beauty, not overwhelm it. A blush built truly for everyone, a one-of-a-kind customized color is just a brush stroke away.

Glamoureyes Mascara - Who needs false lashes when you've got Glamoureyes Mascara? This next generation of mascara perfectly adheres to each lash and instantly lengthens, volumizes, and curls for your softest, plushest lashes ever. The weightless, creamy formula glides on to create a dramatic, wide-eyed look without clumping. The secret is a lash-amplifying polymer that instantly transforms eyes from ordinary to alluring. A unique, multi-level brush has one layer to fluff and volumize, while the second layer lengthens and curls lashes. The result? Lashes that can stop traffic with the blink of an eye. Dynamic lengthening effects in a weightless, creamy formula that feels completely natural. A single stroke instantly lengthens, volumizes, and curls for long, luscious lashes. Eyes appear bigger, bolder, and more beautiful than ever.

- Black - black

Backstage Eye Shadow Palette - Inspired by textures and trends at Fall Fashion Week, the Stila Pro Artistry team has created the Backstage Eye Shadow Palette filled with six new, must-have shades of the season. Each jewel-toned shadow incorporates Stila's award-winning, high-quality formula that can be worn wet or dry. The palette comes in an embossed paper compact, reflecting the season's brocade looks, with a screened inspirational quote. Even the packaging is pretty and won't crowd your clutch!

- Chiffon - shimmery peach

- Flamingo - shimmery fuchsia

- Pacific - metallic navy blue

- Luster - medium warm alloy

- Poetic - shimmery mauve

- Coal - cool metallic emerald

Long Wear Liquid Lip Color - Bold lips are in this season and Stila has the perfect product for you. Introducing Long Wear Liquid Lip Color. This long-lasting lip color formula glides on lips and stays put, delivering hours of intense moisture and rich, stunning, bold color with a matte, creamy finish. The weightless liquid moves with your lips to prevent color from transferring, feathering, or bleeding and crate captivatingly kissable lips. Enriched with ultra-conditioning Vitamin E and avocado oil, Long Wear Liquid Lip Color hydrates and seals in moisture so your lips look and feel irresistably soft all day.

- Fiery - the perfect red

- Caprice - hot pink

- Patina - warm nude

- Petal - pale pink

- Coral - shimmery coral

- Muse - natural mauve

Long Wear Lip Liner - Stila's new extremely long-wearing lip liner glides onto lips effortlessly with no tugging or feathering to deliver intense, true color. With an unprecedented 70% pigment, you get outstanding color depth with rich payoff in a single application. The pencil-point design allows for precise placement to shape and define lips, while the unique, stay-put formula features innovative adhesive ploymers to resist smudging, smearing, bleeding, or feathering.

- Aspiring - neutral beige

- Passionate - red

- Charming - light rose

- Obsessed - hot pink

#33 One Step Complexion Brush - This dual-ended foundation brush and concealer brush allows you to blend both liquid and powder brush seamlessly for effortless makeup application and a flawless finish. One side beautifully blends liquid, creams, and powder foundation into your skin, while the other delivers precision concealing for a perfect, polished complexion. The synthetic bristles are shaped to imitate application with your fingertips, but are firmer and more flexible for quicker, easier makeup application. The tapered brush can burrow into tiny, hard-to-reach crevices. Synthetic brushes eliminate the transfer of oils and bacteria. Can also be used to apply eye shadow and cheek color.

I may not think much of this group of a products as a collection but I do really like what has come out for fall. My favorite new products are the new primer (love the double helix shape!) and the Paris palette. I am also interested in the Custom Color Blush, I am hoping I will get a great pink shade from this product. Lip product wise, I want the Fiery, Patina, Petal, and Muse shades in the Liquid Lip Color.

This primer speaks to both the makeup addict in me and the biology geek. A rare match...

photo courtesy of Stila

DKNY pureDKNY

The newest fragrance from DKNY is named pureDKNY and is a first of its kind from DKNY. This is company that has not been known in the past for being partial to natural and organic ingredients but they seem to be changing that image with the release of this newest fragrance. Proceeds from this fragrance also go to support farmers in Uganda, allowing the user of the fragrance to both smell good and do good at the same time.

Sephora gives a great description of the fragrance and how it came about. "Look good. Feel good. Do good. This pure new scent adds a drop of vanilla to a world that needs a moment of calm. More than a fragrance, it embraces a way of being that takes time out for the simple things, the things closest to the heart: love, joy, comfort, relationships, and community. The fragrance's top notes soar of the pure scent of vanilla. Accords of dewdrop petal, lotus flower, and Bulgarian Rose harmonize with a floral heart of jasmine, freesia, and lush orchid. It finishes in a cradle of warmth: white amber, creamy sandalwood. The vanilla used in this fragrance is grown sustainably in Uganda. pureDKNY also supports CARE, an international development organization, in a specific microfinance project that will reach 900 Ugandan vanilla farmers, many of whom are women. The bottle, organic in shape and inspired by a drop of water, appears to be formed by nature. The materials include 100% recyclable glass and a cap of high-purity aluminum. Its compostable box is made of sustainably harvested paper manufactured in a mill that uses 100% renewable energy".

The notes are: Vanilla, Dew-Drop Petal, Lotus Flower, Bulgarian Rose, Jasmine, Freesia, Lush Orchid, White Amber, Creamy Sandalwood.

This fragrance is very unique, I actually fell in love with it at first sniff. The vanilla is the strongest note on first spray and then the florals come through, I noticed the jasmine and the orchid the strongest. The sandalwood makes the fragrance last and keeps the floral notes strong throughout the day. This is one of those rare fragrances where it works for anyone and can be loved by people who all different types of fragrances. I must say that I am very happy with DKNY's new fragrance and their new responsible approach to help change Uganda.

photo courtesy of Sephora

Chanel Soho Story Collection

In order to celebrate the newest Chanel store opening in the Soho area of New York City, Chanel has released a small, special edition collection to celebrate the neighborhood. Since this is the neighberhood that I want to live in the most when I get to move up there, I am very interested in the Chanel store in this location and the overall atmosphere.

Chanel gives the following as the overall description of this new collection, "Soho - one of Manhatten's trendiest neighborhoods - inspires a decidedly modern palette of nudes and pinks, as well as cult-worthy steel-grays". I can't wait to look at the new products in this collection!

Here is the new collection...

Soho de Chanel Highlighting Powders and Blush - This blush-and-powder palette, comprised of light plum, pink-ivory, and soft pink shades for face and decollete, puts the name of the Chanel boutique - in hip, downtown Soho New York City - front and center.

Le Vernis Nail Colour - Brillance to your fingertips with must-have colours from the runways of Paris. State-of-the-art formula strengthens and moisturizes nails. Unique patented non-spill bottle with wiping action for easy application.

- Strong - deep purple shimmer

- Steel - steel gray shimmer

Les 4 Ombres Quadra Eye Shadow - Shade combinations ranging from matte to frost to satin for multiple looks, contrasting complementary. Apply dry for subtle shadowing. Slightly moistened applicator gives a more intense shade. Organic polymer derivatives ensure smudge-proof long wear, particularly in high temperature or humidity. Dermatologist tested.

- Stupendous - deep brown/champagne/pale pink/pale silver

Rouge Coco Hydrating Creme Lip Colour - Chanel introduces a modern interpretation of classic creme lip colour as an homage to the rich life and legacy of 'Coco' Chanel. New lightweight lip colour glides on for easy application, and features a Hydratendre complex to help soften, soothe, and condition lips - even boosting their ability to hold in moisture - for a plumper, smoother, and healthier - looking appearance. A range of wearable shades with full-coverage finishes, from matte to pearl to soft shimmer.

- Stunning - deep plum

Rouge Allure Laque Luminous Satin Lip Lacquer - Liquid lacquer with intensely rich colour and shine that lasts. Temptingly creamy texture and full coverage in eight stunning shades.

- Stunt - deep plummy brown

Levres Scintillantes Glossimer - Intense frost and shine for lips. Cool array of hottest colours in a convenient, easy-to-use case. Gel texture imparts a shimmery, ultra-glossy look. New shades add extra sparkle and shine.

- Star - pale pink shimmer

I am really liking this little collection and am excited to visit Soho and see the new Chanel store. I think that my favorite product is the new Star shade of Glossimer, this could be a new favorite lip gloss of mine. I also love the new highlighter but I am afraid that it is too pretty is use it. The two new nail polish shades will be perfect to go into fall and so will the new eye shadow compact. I can't think of a better way to celebrate a new store opening than beautiful limited edition makeup.

photo courtesy of Chanel

Urban Decay Book of Shadows 3

As I type this, Urban Decay has already sold out of their latest Book of Shadows and is rapdily trying to get more in stock for their fans. This Book of Shadows is hyped to be their best so far with all new shades and a New York City theme and is a product that I was crazy about since the first peak that I got at it. I had originally heard that this wasn't coming out until end of Septmeber so I was very shocked when I got the email from Urban Decay and by the time that I got to their site, it was already gone. Now the hunt begins...

Urban Decay states, "Totally obsessed with the Big Apple? So are we (how could anyone not be?). Inspired by the glimmering lights and iconic landmarks of New York City, Book of Shadows Volume III features 16 eye shadows that go way beyond neutrals and brights including SEVEN NEW SHADES with names like Loaded, Rockstar, and Money. We've also included nine best-sellers in a range of sizzling textures: everything from glitter to shimmer to matte. The hand-illustrated compact actually LIGHTS UP when you open it, and reveals a stunning view of iconic landmarks (like Lady Liberty and the token taxi cab). You'll want to show it off to all your friends, trust us! The built-in mirrow lets you touch-up on the go, and a pullout drawer houses 3 more glamorous goodies: two of our award-winning 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils and a travel size Eye Shadow Primer Potion...because more is SO New York City. You'll be booking a one way flight to JFK in no time".

Here are the new shades...

- Bordello - purpley pink with gold shift

- Kush - bright green

- Loaded - deep emerald/black

- Money - silvery pale green

- Radium - bright blue

- Rockstar - deep eggplant with metallic base

- Suspect - oyster with dimensional shift

Here are the permanent shades...

- Haight - shimmering mermaid blue

- Psychedelic Sister - purple amethyst

- Snatch - peachy pink with glitter

- Last Call - plum punch

- Maui Wowie - medium gold with silver glitter

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

- Smog - deep coppery bronze

- Perversion - matte jet black

- Uzi - metallic silver with big iridescent sparkles

The Eye Pencils are the best-selling Zero shade, which is black and Ransom, which is a bright purple shade. A travel size Primer Potion is also included. I really love this palette and want to track it down but I shudder to think how many duplicates from Urban Decay I will own away buying it. Since I just got the Naked Palette, I am sure that I am racking them up. I know for a fact that I already own Last Call, Smog, and Uzi. I think that I own Perversion and Maui Wowie also, but I'm not totally sure without looking. Not that that really makes any difference since I will end up chasing this palette down anyway since I love both Urban Decay and New York City!

photo courtesy of Urban Decay

Smashbox O-Gloss Noir

The Smashbox O-Gloss line is the first of the "intuitive lip glosses" that make a shade that is individual for every lady. This product first came out in the beginning of 2007 and could be used as a blush or a lip gloss to create a perfect pink shade. Other products and shades have come out in the following years from both Smashbox and other brands who have been copying the technology around this line. This fall, Smashbox is releasing their newest addition to the line, called O-Gloss Noir.

Since we know that purple and plum shades are very popular for this season, it only makes sense that this product would be released in a plummy shade so that every woman can find and wear a plum shade. Sephora states that this product is "A sumptuous gloss that goes on black and then transforms into your perfect berry hue". Further details are provided as follows, "Get a sultry berry pout that's all your own! O-Gloss is packed with vitamins and natural ingredients that revitalize, nourish, and moisturize your lips, like the exclusive microcirculating Goji Berry-C Complex and ginkgo biloba, pomegrante seed antioxidants, revitalizing marine botanicals, and moisturizing avocado oil. As it transforms into your perfect berry hue, you will be left with a shade that is unique to you".

Since this product was sold out the last time that I went to Sephora, I am awaiting a restock of the gloss. I have been reading over the Sephora website and looking at the comments that have been left. People have stated that it works with any complexion and the only major downside of the product is that the shine fades faster than the shade itself so a clear gloss will be needed to apply over it. When I got play with the tester, the black shade was a bit surprising at first but then it does transform into a very pretty medium red berry hue. I am really hoping that this product is restocked soon since the Sephora website lists that it is only limited edition. I am hoping that this will be the perfect berry shade for me so that I don't have to test a bunch of different ones in the coming weeks.

photo courtesy of Sephora

YSL Fall 2010 Collection

Last month when reading Vogue, I fell madly in love with a pair of pants from YSL. However, until I graduate from my masters' program and get an executive job, those pants will remain a picture in Vogue. Since I am already lusting after pieces of YSL this fall, I am going to try and forgot about those pants by looking at their newest beauty collection. "This season the YSL woman takes to the stage. She is excessive, flamboyant, passionate. She experiments with color to reinvent herself. Her life is a theatre. She plays with textures and shades: satin skin, velvet lips, eyes shimmer in metallic hues. There are no rules. She is after all, the YSL Woman".

Here is the new collection...

Peche N. 1 L'Eclat Collector Palette - YSL's new limited edition Palette for Complexion is inspired by YSL fashion. This season's star is embellished with a detail of passementerie engraved on the emblematic YSL compact in contrasting matte and shiny gold. This powder in interlacing barely-there shades will give you sinful radiance. 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 sheer, even finish.

Touche Eclat Radiant Touche - 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 pen - the one item 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 into your bag to ensure a brillant glow, anytime, anywhere. Suitable for all skin types. Four shades are available to match all skintones.

Ombres Duolumieres Eye Shadow Duo - A reflection of the Yves Saint Laurent's spirit, the colours are both luminous and radiant. The duos play with contrasts that work together to dress the eyelids with vibrant hues and beautify the eyes with ultimate elegance. The extremely soft powder glides evenly and unwinds like the finest ribbon onto the skin. Thanks to an optical smoothing effect, each shade fully expresses its intensity and radiance.

- Purple Amethyst/Tawny Brown - lavender/tawny

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

- #101 Beige Caress - neutral beige

- #102 Coral Sun - medium warm coral

- #103 Sparkling Pink - cool blue pink

- #104 Stellar Pink - medium neutral pink

- #105 Insolent Beige - deep warm beige

- #106 Mesmerizing Purple - deep purple

Mascara Singulier Exaggerated Lashes Dramatic Styling - A daring new interpretation of beautiful eyes. Glamorous volume, bold length, volutptuous curl and dramatic styling: MASCARA SINGULIER dares to do everything. A unique innovation by Yves Saint Laurent, the mascara brush combines the technology of a traditional brush with the structure of a moulded brush, to increase the performance of the formula: structured in an elliptic way, the multi-dimensional bristles ensure "Haute Couture" precision and dress the lashes evenly from root to tip. By coating the root of the lashes with mascara like a stroke of eye liner, the brush creates a unique and intense type of separation. Volumizing micro-spheres thicken the lashes, with Pro-vitamin B5 to protect, nourish, and reinforce of the lashes' structure. Like hair extensions, nylon micro-fibres extend the lashes. A high performance "curling wax" helps style the lashes for an ideal curve.

- #5 Deep Indigo - navy

Ombre Solo Smoothing Effect Eye Shadow - This Fall YSL introduces two new shades of Ombre Solo. Easy to apply with a silky soft and rich texture, the colour remains vibrant and pure for hours. Blending is effortless; colour and intensity are easy to adjust to your desired concentration. Set in a luxurious gold compact, this eye shadow allows for easy application with both a sponge tip and brush applicator. A soft and long-lasting eye colour for a truely professional result.

- #13 Aquamarine - pale blue

- #14 Satin Silver - pale white

Blush Variation - Blush Variation combines both matte and iridescent textures that blend together to enliven the cheekbones with a veil of colour. The exclusive formula, containing self-adapting pigments, catches all the intensity of light and transforms it into a vibrant source of colour.

- #19 Venetian Rose - shades of roses and bronzes

Golden Gloss Shimmering Lip Gloss - Dress your lips in a veil of shimmering gold with Golden Gloss. The gloss forms a mirror-effect on the lips which sparkles with mother-of-pearl. A complex of nourishing oils (Nigelle and Cameline oils protects the lips while providing total comfort.

- #30 Golden Satin - golden pink

- #31 Golden Toffee - neutral golden beige

Limited Edition Manucure Couture Colour Nail Polish Duo - For this season only, Yves Saint Laurent dresses nails in Couture colors with its new interpretation of the classic French Manicure. These "twin sets" leave nails with an ultra-satin finish for an irresistably chic color statement.

- #3 Belle de Nuit - deep plum and shimmering gold

- #4 Y-Cone - pale pink and white

I'm not really feeling this collection, I am doubting that many of the shades in it will work for me. I really only like the Blush Variation and the Belle de Nuit nail polish duo. I would love if the Golden Glosses would work for my skintone since they are so beautiful int he package but I am doubting that I will have much luck with them. Back to lusting after the pants instead of the makeup...

photo courtesy of YSL