LUSH Halloween Collection

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

Here are they are...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

photo courtesy of LUSH

Giorgio Armani Fall 2009 Collection - Manta Ray

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

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

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

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

- N.2 Deep Ocean Blue and Intense Ocean Green

- N.3 Pale Lilac Grey and Luminous Fushcia

- N.4 Light Blue Stone and Sandy Beige

- N.5 Shimmering Lilac Pearl and Pale Green Pearl

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

- 1 Midnight Metallic Blue

- 2 Matte Charcoal

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

- 2 Pink

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

- 1 Peach

- 2 Warm Peach

- 7 Raspberry

- 9 Shimmer Pink

- 16 Dusty Pink

- 21 Pink Greige

- 22 Golden Champagne

- 26 Dark Rose

- 45 Sandy Beige

- 48 Dark Brown

- 56 Golden Coral

- 57 Ivory Beige

- 58 Indian Red

- 59 Frozen Beige

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

- 2 Grapefruit

- 3 Fushcia

- 6 Rose

- 7 Dusty Rose

- 10 Cranberry

- 12 Pomegranate

- 14 Red Coral

- 16 Champagne

- 17 Mocha

- 18 Mauve

- 20 Red-Orange

- 22 Frozen Coral

- 23 Rose

- 24 Coral

- 27 Pink Latte

- 28 Rose Toffee

- 30 Deep Raspberry

- 55 Latte

- 92 Deep Plum

- 93 Mauve Rose

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

photo courtesy of Giorgio Armani

Philosophy Autumn Treats

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

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

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

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

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

photo courtesy of Philosophy

Givenchy Fall 2009 Collection - Les Poetiques

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

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

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

Here we go...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

photo courtesy of Givenchy

DuWop Fall 2009 Collection

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

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

Here they are...

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

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

- Baked Apple - midtone brown red

- Creme Brulee - midtone nude

- Cupcake - bright blue pink

- Ganache - deep red

- Sorbet - pale pink

- Tart - midtone magenta

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

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

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

photo courtesy of DuWop

Guerlain Fall 2009 Collection - Volga Princess

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

Here is the new collection...

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

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

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

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

- Cristal Nude 200 - clear

- Red Nude 220 - sheer red

- Honey Nude 240 - sheer nude

- Rosewood Nude 241 - sheer brown rose

- Romantic Nude 260 - sheer pink

- Rosy Nude 261 - sheer rose

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

photo courtesy of Guerlain

Stila Fall 2009 Collection - Barbie Loves Stila

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

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

Here is the collection...

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

- Joy - red

- Happiness - pale pink

- Tickled Pink - Barbie Loves Stila exclusive hot pink

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

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

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

- Cobalt Clutch - vibrant blue with intense shimmer

- Little Black Dress - black with pink sparkle

- Purple Pumps - purple with pink shimmer

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

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

photo courtesy of Sephora

MAC DSquared2

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

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

Here we go...

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

- V - bright blue violet

- B - bright yellow blue

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

- Black - intense black

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

- Feline - rich black (Frost)

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

- Nude Rose - sheer light neutral pink

- Blood Red - clean deep berry

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

- Fushcia Fix - deep pink sheen

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

- Dim - for all skintones

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

- Bone Beige/Emphasize - palest cream/tan

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

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

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

photo courtesy of MAC

YSL Fall 2009 Collection

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

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

Here are the products...

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

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

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

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

- #2 Powdery Rose - midtone rose

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

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

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

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

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

- #22 Exquisite Plum - deep plum

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

Love this look!

photo courtesy of YSL

MAC Style Black

Well it is finally out on the counters and in the stores. MAC's most anticipated release for the fall, the Style Black collection is here and already selling out like crazy. I commented on this major black trend last week when looking at MAC's fall trends and predicting that this collection would be a major hit for them. As for myself? Black eye shadow is a must for the fall, black nail polish is a maybe, black lipstick is very doubtful. Let's see what I could pull off from this collection.

MAC describes the collection as follows on their website, "From '80s Sprouse-in-the-House kohl and fringe to London New Goth, going back to black changes the mood, deepens the drama. Eyeliner, beehives, and beyond, this is a celebration of going madly, deliriously noir. Don't wait until midnight".

Here is it...

Mineralize Eye Shadow - A sheer, pearled, mineralized Powder Eye Shadow with two shades baked together in one pan. Superfine, lightweight: provides a softly tinted, relfective shimmer on the skin with a delicate sense of dimension. Subtly builds colour and shine. Can be worn on face, eyes, or body.

- Gilt By Association - mineralize black with gold bronze pearl

- Young Punk - mineralize black with pinkish purple pearl

- Cinderfella - mineralize black with silver pearl

- Blue Flame - mineralize black with blue pearl

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

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.

- Black - intense black

Eye Kohl - A soft-on pencil liner that lines, defines, and shades with rich colour and a silky- smooth, matte/pearl finish. Opthamologist tested.

- Smolder - intense black

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

- Black Knight - creamy true black (Cream)

Mattene Lipstick - With its streamlined design, this new slimline lip colour, features the traditional glamour properties of a matte lipstick - intense colour and semi-matte velvetly finish - while offering a creamier, softer, more glide-on application. Non-caking, non-drying. Moisturizing and incredibly wearable yet absolutely matte.

- Night Violet - deep purple grape (Matte)

- Midnight Media - dense matte black (Matte)

Glimmerglass - A lightweight gloss formula featuring various sized pearl particles that combine together to give a lustrously sheer colour with added glimmer, sparkle, and pop.

- Blackware - creamy true black (Shine)

- Bling Black - sheer black with gold pearl (Shine)

- Black Fire - sheer black with pinkish purple pearl (Shine)

Cream Colour Base - Versatile and multi-purpose, Cream Colour Base can be applied driectly to bare skin, or layered over foundation, moisturizer, or powder. Apply with a brush, sponge, or fingers. Colour effects range from a light veil to highly dramatic, depending on method of application. Fragrance-free.

- Black - creamy true black

- Bat Black - blackened burgundy with pink pearl

Volcanic Ash Exfoliator - A highly effective, dual-purpose foaming, cleansing, and exfoliating scrub blending natural volcanic ash with fine sugar crystals. Refines and unclogs the skin, adds instant moisture: leaves skin feeling soft and comfortably clean. Mineral-rich. May be used effectively on any part of face or body. Rinses off with warm water.

Volcanic Ash Thermal Mask - Formulated with Volcanic Ash and natural oils, this ash-black facial mask simultaneously deep-cleanses and treats the skin. When water is added, the mask heats up and the oils instantly lubricate the skin, leaving it feeling soft and clean. Helps keep skin moist, clean, soft, and evenly-textured. Limited edition.

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

- Nocturnelle - black-as-night black (Cream)

- Seriously Hip - black with gold particle pearl (Frost)

- Baby Goth Girl - black with pinkish purple pearl (Frost)

214 Short Shader Brush - Short, rounded, double-chiselled brush with soft, natural bristles. Can be used with shadow to line and smudge around the lash line and very effective for densely shading lids.

Well, I can already state the all the lip products will be a no, I just can't pull off anything with black in it. But some of the other products in this collection? Very haulable! I really want both of the new skincare products, I have been obsessed with the Volanic Ash Exfoliator since it was first released and I neveer got any of it. And they repackaged it in a tube to allow less water to enter and waste less product! MAC I love you! Also the Mineralize Eye Shadow in Gilt By Association is at the top of my shopping list for this collection. I also want Young Punk and Cinderfella. This collection also proves to me how good a purchase the Eye Kohl in Smolder really was when I got it several months ago, it is a great product for making smoky eyes but I have noticed that it is always popping up in new collections to complement other products. I also want to get all three nail polish shades and try out the Greasepaint Stick and the Penultimate.

This collection makes me feel very stylish and like a hip New Yorker.

photo courtesy of Nordstrom

MAC Dazzleglass Creme

MAC has released a new version of their famed Dazzleglasses. Dazzleglasses quickly became a cult item when they first released last year and last spring, MAC was finally able to re-release the glosses and keep up with the constant demand from their customers. I have never met anyone who after trying these glosses was not completely in love with and considers them to hold a unique place in their traincase.

Well, MAC has released a new version to take up into the cooler weather. This collection is called Dazzleglass Creme and MAC describes it as follows, "Flashing flecks of lustrous glimmer give lips a new kind of high-beam shine, while the balm effect of the pillow-top comfort creme keeps the supple going and going. For dazzle with absolute comfort, it's better than brillant!" This looks more like the formula was updated to a be a bit cushier while still hanging onto all the shimmer of the original gloss.

Dazzleglass Creme - MAC cult favorite Dazzleglass with a creamier, smoother, but no less shiny or dazzling effect. For those who are drawn to the luxe of cream lips, but still want the dazzling allure of its inspiration, this is it.

- Luscious Spark - light orange with gold pearl

- Totally Fab - bright yellow red with pearl

- Sublime Shine - light coral brown with gold pearl

- Soft Dazzle - midtone peach pink with gold pearl

- My Favorite Pink - light blue pink with pearl

- Perfectly Unordinary - bright yellow pink with gold pearl

- Do It Up - bright blue pink with pearl

- Creme Allure - bright yellow plum

- Amorous - deep brown red with pearl

I have been looking forward to this release since I first heard about it over two months ago. I love original Dazzleglasses and was so excited for new colors to be released. In the past, I hve tended to shy away from the very pigmented Dazzleglasses as I sometimes feel that these glosses can be a bit too much going on at once with the combination of rich color and super shimmer. From this collection, My Favorite Pink, Soft Dazzle, and Perfectly Unordinary have my name written all over them. Cannot wait to haul...

photo courtesy of MAC

Smashbox Fall 2009 Collection - Reign

Smashbox has released a collection for this fall that is worthy of royalty...at least according to them. Personally, I love Prince William and the entire English aristocracy so this collection (at least on first hearing about it) seems to be right up my alley. I am already envisioning deep rich colors and beautiful packaging. Let's see if this lives up to me expectations.

Smashbox describes the collection on their website as follows, "Scandal. Indulgence. Desire. Decadance reigns in this provocative collection inspired by the English Tudors. Adorn yourself with lust-worthy shadows, metallic liners, and luxurious lip colors fit for a royal".

Here is the collection...

Reign Eye Shadow Palette - Decadent mirrored compacts with 6 baked shadows in both matte and shimmer for higher pigmentation and longer wear. Wear the shimmery shades wet for a metallic, smoky look or dry for a gorgeous wash of luminous color. Use the matte shades as a base, or in the outer corners and crease to intensify a smoky eye.

- Majesty - matte champagne/shimmery champage; matte cabernet/shimmery cabernet; matte black/shimmery black

- Monarch - matte soft gold/shimmery soft gold; matte copper/shimmery copper; matte deep brown/shimmery deep brown

Reign Lash DNA Mascara - Bejewel lashes in a sumptuous new shade fit for a royal. This protein and amino acid packed formula dramatically lengthens, strengthens, and defines for stand-out eyes.

- Plum - shimmering black plum

Reign Double Take Lip Color - Envelop lips in color to lust after. A long-wearing liner on one end and velvety-smooth lip color on the other in two of Fall's hottest shades.

- Amaretto - nude pink/creamy peachy pink

- Currant - deep wine/deep berry red

Reign Lip Gloss - Indulge lips in luxurious, creamy color and scandalous shine. This ultra-moisturizing gloss saturates lips in a gorgeous warm nude shade that pairs perfectly with Fall's smoky eye.

- Crowned - soft peachy pink

Reign Fusion Blush - Scandal. Mystery. Desire. Do you have a reason to blush? Gives cheeks and sensual glow with this dual-toned blush in both matte and shimmer shades, housed in a gorgeous mirrored compact.

- Regal - matte peachy nude/shimmery peachy nude

Wow...I just love this whole collection. The only item that I don't really want to get is the mascara but I love everything else. My top three picks are the lip gloss, the Monarach eye palette, and the Currant lip color. This collection is yet another one that is making me want to spend all fall shopping at the makeup counters.

photo courtesy of Smashbox

Prescriptives Fall 2009 Collection - Well Suited

I have never used any products from Prescriptives before but the line get such raves from my co-workers that I decided that a look at the Fall Colelction is in order to give myself a bit of an introduction to the line. I don't really know why I haven't ever used their products except that I tend to head right to MAC or Urban Decay normally and often just pass counters right by. That being said, I am going to expand my collection and try something else. So let's have a look at these new products.

Here is the overall description of the collection from Prescriptives, "Suit up in new menswear inspired shades with an edgy feminine influence. The fabric inspired collection features a range of sophisticated shades from tweedy browns to silky purples. The look is Well-Suited for Fall".

Here are the products...

Well-Suited Eye Color Compact Warm - Suit your mood and your attitude with five sophisticated shades tailored for your eyes. The limited-edition Well-Suited Eye Color Compact in a Warm palette features four eye shadows to color and contour, plus one shade to line and define your eyes. Mix and match to your liking for looks that are uniquely you.

- Silk/Bean/Olive/Moss/Espresso

Well-Suited Eye Color Compact Cool - Suit your mood and your attitude with five sophisticated shades tailored for your eyes. The limited-edition Well-Suited Eye Color Compact in a Cool palette features four eye shadows to color and contour, plus one shade to line and define your eyes. Mix and match to your liking for looks that are uniquely you.

- Shell/Velour/Pinstripe/Cassis/Blackberry

Well-Suited Eye Color Compact Neutral - Suit your mood and your attitude with five sophisticated shades tailored for your eyes. The limited-edition Well-Suited Eye Color Compact in a Neutral palette features four eye shadows to color and contour, plus one shade to line and define your eyes. Mix and match to your liking for looks that are uniquely you.

- Champagne/Clove/Sultry/Storm/Jet

Well-Suited Finishing Powder - The finishing touch for every well-dressed face. Limited-edition Well-Suited Finishing Powder is a translucent pressed powder with an ultra-silky texture that gives skin subtle luminosity while helping to set makeup.

- Translucent - for all skintones

Longwear Kohl Liner - Soft, creamy, color-rich Longwear Kohl Liner glides on, then sets to a long-wearing smudge-resistant finish. Automatic and waterproof, this eyeliner goes from the inner rim of your eyes to your outer lashline for a look that lasts all day!

- Black Kohl - pure black

- Blue Kohl - bright blue

- Brown Kohl - chocolate brown

- Slate Kohl - deep grey

Colorscope Lipcolor - Drench your lips in brillant color and leave them looking luscious all day. The moisture-rich formula of Colorscope Lipcolor delivers extraordinary shine and comfort for your lips you'll love at first sight. Lips are soft and moisturized, plus, you can customize your look with a cream, shimmer, or sparkle finish. Cream: Smooth and creamy with a moist, shiny finish. Shimmer: Subtle shimmer and hint of sheen create a luminous finish. Sparkle: Multi-dimensional color saturated with sparkle for lips that dazzle.

- Yellow/Orange - shades complement golden undertones

- Red/Orange - shades complement warm peach undertones

- Red - shades complement cool pink undertones

- Blue/Red - shades complement cool rose undertones

Lash Envy Volumizing Mascara - Diva-esque lashes of epic proportions, guarenteed to be the Envy of all. Lash Envy Volumizing Mascara turns your lashes into the voluptuous, luscious lashes you've always craved, with a truly amazing formula. Boosts volume by up to 200%, 12-hour wear, and the exclusive Volumatrix Polymer keeps lashes full and plumped all day.

- Black - black

Bronzer Brush - This advanced bronzer brush perfectly applies bronzer all over the face and body. Perfect to use with the Sunsheen Bronzing Trio.

Well, I don't know if I have any loves from this collection. I do have some likes and now have a reason to head over to the counter at my local Macy*s. I would like to get the Cool Toned Eye Palette and maybe the Neutral one also. Not one of the colors in these two palettes seem to be very unique and will be very dupable. So I would only purchase these products if I really liked the formula because I am sure that MAC offers some shades that are very close to all of these. I also wouldn't mind learning more about the lipstick and how they do the custom blending on their products. I might stop by this counter on my way to a MAC counter in the next few weeks.

photo courtesy of Prescriptives

MAC A/W '09 - Lid Vicious

This is the last of the new looks from MAC for this fall and this one looks to be very much like the new Style Black collection, which is to be their biggest release of the season so far. This one is big on the eye products and looks to contains lots of black and lots of products that would create very dramatic looks. This look is not for the faint of heart.

MAC describes their version of the look as follows, "This season's eyes are something shady. Refined, lined, and exquistly intense, these smoky stares "have a Helnut Newton feel that's attitude driven not cover girl-y" according to MAC Senior Artist Terry Barber, of their "opening night" application and tough, shady glamour".

To get the look...

Eye Shadow - Highly-pigmented powder. Applies evenly. Blends well.
- Carbon - intense black (Matte)

- Scene - muted blue-grey (Satin)

Paint Stick - Highly pigmented, emollient colour stick. No grease or shine. Apply to skin directly or with a brush. May also be sheered down with a sponge.

- Black Black - pure black

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.

- Black - intense black

Fluidline - Ultra-smooth, Fluidline's gel formula provides the precision of a liquid liner with a silker, softer finish. Goes on "foolproof" with a brush in an easy dip-and-stroke action. Long-wearing. Smudge-proof. Lines up in a rich array of colours and finishes. Brushes sold separately.

- Blacktrack - solid flat black

Liquid Eye Liner - A liquid eye liner formula packaged with a unique applicator for precision application. Liquid Eye Liner is the perfect for lining and defining the eyes. Use it to subtly enhance or create bold lines. Because it's ideal for creating graphic designs anywhere on the face or body, don't limit the use of Liquid Eye Liner to the eye area. The firm, tapered tip fo the applicator is easy to control and allows for quick and precise application of the liner. Liquid Eye Liner is long-wearing, smudge-resistant and can be easily removed with Pro Eye Makeup Remover.

- Boot Black - intense black

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

- Feline - rich black (Frost)

Eye Kohl - A soft-on pencil liner that lines, defines, and shades the eyes with rich colour and a silky-smooth, matte/pearl finish. Ophthamologist tested.

- Smolder - intense black

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

- Graphblack - rich graphic black

Eye Pencil - Eye Pencils are formulated to provide rich, consistent colour using ingredients that have virtually no irritancy potential. They are comfortable to apply and sharpen to a fine point to allow for precise application. Eye Pencils can be used to create a sharp line or a softer, smoky effect. They are long-lasting and won't cake or streak.

- Ebony - soft black

Zoom Fast Black Lash - An intensly rich, deep, carbon black mascara that instantly combs and lifts the lashes for incredible volume and length. A deeper, darker version of the popular Zoom Lash Zoomblack shade.

- Black - deepest black

Pro Lash - Lengthening, thickening, non-flaking, non-smudging...totally hard-wearing! Sassy and lush. Works on the catwalk, soups up the sidewalk. Tested and approved by Artists. Industrially packaged; commodity-priced. Gives you attitude. A real hardworking mascara that is lush and luxe in its finish. Good to layer. Apply one coat of Pro Lash for enhanced, defined lashes. For more drama, build up the layers. To layer - apply, allow to dry, then apply again. Pro Lash works the hardest when applied right from the roots of the lashes to the tips. For volume, apply Pro Lash to the top side of the lashes first, and then to the underside. For a perfect groomed finish, comb the lashes through with No. 204 Lash Brush.

- Coal Black - honest-to-goodness black

Lip Pencil - A pencil designed for shaping, lining, or filling in the lip. Lip Pencils have a smooth, creamy texture that is perfect for lining the lips or filling them in. They are long-lasting and available in a wide selection of colours that each work well with many different lipstick shades. The colour of Lip Pencils is protected by Vitamin E, which acts as an anti-oxidant, and they contain emollients that moisturize the lips. Lip Pencils can be worn alone, with Lipstick, or Lipglass.

- Spice - pink cinnamon stick

Overall, I don't need this much black eye makeup ever but I like how MAC has given us all the options that they have available and let us decide what items we need and what look we want to create. This is a great lead-in to Style Black...

photo courtesy of MAC

MAC Trends A/W '09 - New Romantics

The third trend for MAC this fall is called New Romantics and it is based on soft colors and it is the opposite of Who's That Girl look that was discussed earlier. MAC describes this look as follows, "Call it "silk stocking" makeup: balanced, beautiful, and perfected. The antidote to this season's eighties excess heralds washes of blended shadow, vaporous tints, and soft red lips as low-level glamour essentials. Beauty makeup at it's most modern".

Here's the look...

Eye Shadow - Highly-pigmented powder. Applies evenly. Blends well.

- Woodwinked - warm antique gold (Veluxe Pearl)

- Era - soft golden beige with shimmer (Satin)

- Scene - muted blue-grey (Satin)

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.

- Rose Gold - tarnished rose-gold (Metal)

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

Cream Colour Base - Versatile and multi-purpose, Cream Colour Base can be applied directly to bare skin, or layered over foundation, moisturizer, or powder. Apply with a brush, sponge, or fingers. Colour effects range from a light veil to highly dramatic, depending on method of application. Fragrance-free.

- Nude - nude

Zoom Lash - This instant volume mascara power-lifts the lashes into length, curls them up...builds them faster than you can wink! Precision control wand glides smoothly down lashes to provide a gorgeously silky upward "sweep". Smudgeproof and long-wearing!

- Lofty Brown - ultra-rich blackened coco-brown

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

- Plushblack - black

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

- Twig - soft muted browish pink (Satin)

- Syrup - cloudy pink (Lustre)

- Creme Cup - light blue pink (Cremesheen)

Lip Pencil - A pencil designed for shaping, lining, or filling in the lip. Lip Pencils have a smooth, creamy texture that is perfect for lining the lips or filling them in. They are long-lasting and available in a wide selection of colours that each work well with many different lipstick shades. The colour of Lip Pencils is protected by Vitamin E, which acts as anti-oxidant, and they contain emollients that moisturize the lips. Lip Pencils can be worn alone, with Lipstick, or Lipglass.

- Spice - pink cinnamon stick

- Stripdown - creamy brown-beige

Sculpting Powder - A powder specially tinted to enhance natural bone structure and sculpt contours into the face. Immaculately shaded to create natural looking shadow effects, the finish is sheer and matte.

- Bone Beige - soft warm brown matte

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

- Pink Swoon - clearly pink (Sheertone)

Blushcreme - Luxuriously soft and creamy, this cream blush tenderly flushes the cheeks or brings them into a full-blown rosy bloom. Blends well; layers exquisitely. Gives a vibrant, dewy fresh, slightly shiny look to the cheeks. Apply with a brush or fingers.

- Posey - dewy-fresh rosy pink (Cream)

- Laid Back - ultra rich chocolate berry (Cream)

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

Studio Sculpt SPF 15 Foundation - A creamy, luxurious, gel based foundation that provides medium buildable to high coverage with a natural satin finish. Hydrating, instantly revitalizes the skin, while keeping it looking smooth, soft and plush. Long-wearing, water-resistant.

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

Hmmm...I love this look! This one is going to be a keeper for me!

photo courtesy of MAC

MAC Trends A/W '09 - Who's That Girl

The second trend look from MAC is called Who's That Girl. The first thing that popped into my head when I saw the name of this look is the Madonna song of the same name. Is this look going to be super-80's and fall into the category of a look for going out? Let's find out...

Here is MAC's take on the trend, "Get amplified by plugging into electrocuted shades and sharp shapes. New eighties is all about one element, not mannequin-y makeup. Play with winged black eyes, jagged cheekbones, brave blush, sharp highlights...and above all, lined, exorbitant lips". I knew it! This look with be very early Madonna...I think I like it!

Here are the needed products...

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

- Freshwater - bright summer pearl (Veluxe Pearl)

- Club - red-brown with green pearl (Satin)

Pigment - Pigment is a highly concentrated loose colour 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.

- Blue/Brown - brown with green/blue pearl (Frost)

- Magenta Madness - intense neon blue pink (Matte)

Lip Conditioner SPF 15 - A lightweight conditioning balm for the lip formulated with SPF 15. Protects the lips from everyday agressions, holds in moisture, provides gentle repair ro dry lips. Contains Almond Oil, Shea Butter, Avocado Extract, Wheat Germ Oil, Vitamins A and E. Petroleum based to seal in moisture yet smooth to apply, non-sticky on. Slightly vanilla flavored. Colour-free.

Clear Lipglass - A unique lip gloss that can create a high gloss, glass-like finish or a subtle sheen. Designed to be worn on its own, over Lip Pencil or Lipstick, Clear Lipglass is the perfect product for creating shine that lasts. It contains Jojoba Oil to help soften and condition the lips and a tiny bead of this highly concentrated product is all that's needed to cover the lip area.

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

- Violetta - bright violet (Amplified Creme)

- Morange - loudmouth orange (Amplified Creme)

- Girl About Town - fabulous fuschia (Amplified Creme)

- Up The Amp - lavender violet (Amplified Creme)

- "O" - purplish red with golden pearl (Frost)

Lipmix - High-shine gloss with a metallic effect. Sheers down to a glossy colour wash. Available in a wide range of shades.

- Crimson - deep red

Lip Pencil - A pencil designed for shaping, lining, or filling in the lip. Lip Pencils have a smooth, creamy texture that is perfect for lining the lips or filling them in. They are long-lasting and available in a wide selection of colours that each work well with many different lipstick shades. The colour of Lip Pencils is protected by Vitamin E, which acts as an anti-oxidant, and they contain emollients that moisturize the lips. Lip Pencils can be worn alone, with Lipstick, or Lipglass.

- Cherry - vivid bright bluish red

- Magenta - vivid pinkish purple

- Redd - clearly red

- Stripdown - creamy brown-beige

Cream Colour Base - Versatile and multi-purpose, Cream Colour Base can be applied directly to bare skin or layered over foundation, moisturizer, or powder. Apply with a brush, sponge, or fingers. Colour effects range from a light veil to highly dramatic, depending on method of application. Fragrance-free.

- Pink Shock - bright pink

Iridescent Powder/Loose - Iridescent Powder is a finely milled mixture of Mica and pigments which gives the skin a beautiful sheen. It can be used on its own or mixed into other products like foundations or moisturizers to enhance their iridescent qualities. Designed to apply easily and uniformly without streaking and caking, it blends beautifully and can be applied over bare skin or foundation. Because it's so concentrated it should be used sparingly at first. Apply Iridescent Powder with #129 Powder/Blush Brush for the desired effect.

Mehhh.... this one is not really my style.

photo courtesy of MAC

MAC Trends A/W '09 - Sculpture Club

Several days ago, MAC released their own trend report for this fall and winter seasons. Is it just me or is it a bit late for this type of trend report to be released. I feel that this should have been released about a month or so ago when people were beginning to shop for fall makeup not when the season is in full swing and I am halfway through fall makeup purchasing. Anyway...

MAC states that, "If there's one thing this season's makeup is all about, it's a point of view. From unabashed eighties and unbelievable elegance to souped-up scultping and serious eyeling. Discover the biggest directions in makeup straight from the runways - right here. Its your essential insider update!"

There are four looks and they are all to large to cover at once. So we are just going to start with the Sculpture Club look and look at the products that MAC suggests to create this new look. MAC describes this look as follows, "The new natural is structured and considered. Think "surgery" without "plastic": sculpting, highlighting, contouring, and those old Eighties tricks like triangular contours and matte versus shimmer...it's punk couture".

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

- Amber Lights - peachy-brown with shimmer (Frost)

- Cork - muted golden brown (Satin)

Pigment - Pigment is 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.

- Blue Brown - blue with green/blue pearl (Frost)

Paint Pot - A highly pigmented eye colour that goes on creamy but dries to an intense, vibrant finish. Long-wearing, colourfast. Creates seamless coverage without weight or caking. Blends smoothly over the lids. Cream-based, can be mixed with MAC shadows and liners.

- Indianwood - metallic antique bronze (Frost)

Eye Kohl - A soft-on pencil liner that lines, defines, and shades the eyes with rich colour and a silky-smooth, matte/pearl finish. Ophthamologist tested.

- Fascinating - intense matte white

Lip Erase - A flesh-toned balm that visibly neutralizes and erases natural colour from the lip. Shine- and texture-free. Available in a choice of two shades for use on light to medium skin tones.

- Dim - N37

Lip Conditioner SPF 15 - A lightweight conditioning balm for the lip formulated with SPF 15. Protects the lips from everyday aggressions, holds in moisture, provides gentle repair to dry lips. Contains Almond Oil, Shea Butter, Avocado Extract, Wheat Germ Oil, Vitamins A and E. Petroleum based to seal in moisture yet smooth to apply, non-stciky on. Slightly vanilla flavored. Colour-free.

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

- Photo - golden brown (Satin)

- Syrup - cloudly pink (Lustre)

- Shy Girl - creamy neutral coral beige (Cremesheen)

Lip Pencil - A pencil designed for shaping, lining, or filling in the lip. Lip Pencils have a smooth, cramy texture that is perfect for lining the lips or filling them in. They are long-lasting and available in a wide selection of colours that work well with many different lipstick shades. the colour of Lip Pencils is protected by Vitamin E, which acts as an anti-oxidant and they contain emollients that moisturize the lips. Lip Pencils can be worn alone, with Lipstick, or Lipglass.

- Chestnut - intense brown

- Hodgepodge - taupe-brown

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

Mineralize Skinfinish Natural - A luxurious domed face powder with minerals, slowly baked to provide dimensional yet natural-matte finish. Provides perfect low coverage. Use to set and fix foundation or as a touch-up throughout the day.

- Light- soft pale beige

Shaping Powder - A micro-fine shaping powder formulated with soft focus technology that accents and emphasizes the high planes of the face. More subtle than many highlighters, these are the ideal shade complement to MAC Pro Sculpting Powder. Available in single pans or as a Pro palette.

- Accentuate - peachy beige with fine pearl

- Lightsweep - warm beige with fine pearl

- Warm Light - clean peach

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

- Buff - soft muted pinkish-peach (Matte)

- Blunt - muted golden brown (Matte)

- Gingerly - capri bronze (Sheertone)

Iridescent Powder/Loose - Iridescent Powder is a finely milled mixture of Mica and pigments which gives the skin a beautiful sheen. It can be used on its own or mixed into other products like foundations or moisturizers to enhance their iridescent qualities. Designed to apply easily and uniformly without streaking and ckaing, it blends beautifully and can be applied on bare skin or over foundation. Because its so concentrated, it should be used sparingly at first. Apply Iridescent Powder with #129 Powder/Blush Brush for the desired effect.

- Silver Dusk - pinky beige with silver shimmer

Cream Colour Base - Versatile and multi-purpose, Cream Solour Base can be applied directly to bare skin, or layered over foundation, moisturizer, or powder. Apply with a brush, sponge, or fingers. Colour effects range from a light veil to highly dramatic, depending on the method of application. Fragrance-free.

- Pearl - pale gold with icy shimmer (Frost)

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 effects of light on all skin and in all lighting conditions from sunlight to spotlight.

Face and Body Foundation - A water-based, water-resistant foundation that provides long-lasting natural coverage for face and/or body. Ideal for all skin types. Face and Body Foundation provides sheer, natural looking coverage in an easy-to-blend, water-resistant formula. The long-lasting formula is available in a wide range of colours and contains several emollients to help condition and moisturize the skin. It delivers professional looking results thaty meet the exacting standards of beauty photography and is ideal for perfecting the face and body.

Studio Sculpt SPF 15 Foundation - A creamy, luxurious, gel-based foundation that provides medium buildable to full coverage with a natural satin finish. Hydrating, instantly revitalizes the skin while kepping it looking smooth, soft, and plush. Long-wearing, water-resistant.

This look seems to be on the more complicated side but I think that I will be trying this one out. I love the eye makeup colors and really want the Shy Girl Lipstick. First look for fall - pass!

photo courtesy of MAC

MAC Trend F/W 09

MAC released a mini collection last week to get us all into the Fall spirit. Now that Fall has finally arrived, the company is getting everyone ready for everything they will need to purchase for the season. Style Black releases in less than a week so this small collection is a bit of preview and should contain shades that can easily be mixed with what is releasing on Thursday.

Here is the overview of the collection from MAC, "As designers deepen their fascination with all things architectural, so too goes the modern face. Structured, constructed, built to beguile. The shapes and steely colors in this collection are an expression of the backstage trends, an ode to the modern woman, rendered with true architectural precision".

The products...

Tone: Grey - A compact featuring four limited edition eye shadows that reflect the key shades found in Fall/Winter 09 collections. Provides a modern interpretation of the smoky eye, with an emphasis of blue with grey.

- Tone: Grey - pale green grey

- A Warmer White - dirty grey

- Waft - dark smoky blue grey

- The Right Smoke - rich blue with white pearl

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

- Hipster - burgundy with frost (Frost)

- Faultlessly F/W - blackened blue violet (Amplified)

- Our Pick - Cement taupe grey (Satin)

- Red Full-Stop - bright neon coral (Lustre)

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

- New Berry - deep plum (Cream)

- Runway Fave - grey tone neutral with high pearl (Frost)

- So This Season - deep blue violet (Cream)

Asphalt Flower - A deep, dark erotic fragrance that takes its place in our F/W 09 collection as the aromatic complement to this alt-fashion look. Features glossy violet and iris petals, vanilla, and patchoulin with top notes of violet, ylang-ylang; mid notes of iris, heliotrope and a finale of olibanum, patchouli, and MAC signature vanilla. Limited Edition.

The first thing that I really like about this collection is that it will blend perfectly with Style Black and even though it still contains deep, dramatic shades, I find that it might be a bit more wearable than some of the shades in Style Black. After I look at Style Black, I will let you all know my thoughts on this comparison.

With collection, I have decided to branch out and try more dark lipstick and gloss shades. So I resolve to go MAC this week and try every single lip shade that MAC offers in this collection. I don't know how the grey tones will work for me but since I cool toned skin, I might find a bunch of shades that work better for me than I originally thought they would.

photo courtesy of MAC

Shu Uemura Fall 2009 Collection - Primitribe Fall Mode

The Fall Collection from Japanese brand Shu Uemura is the most unique collection that I have seen so far this entire season. This collection has bright eye makeup colors and really reminds me of many of the collections that were offered over the summer, especially with the bright aqua and yellow eye makeup shades. This collection looks very tribal and just not what my idea of what fall makeup should look like. This almost looks like a later summer collection even though it was labeled as "Fall/Winter". Maybe this means that another collection will be coming out a bit later in the season.

Here is how Shu Uemura describes the collection, "Take a trip to a primitive land! Shu Uemura's Fall Mode Collection invites you to explorate make-up with unexpected colors found in the primitive tribe. Be wild and go beyond ordinary."

Here are the products...

Painting Liner - A range of eyeliners for precise application on the eyes. The formula has an ultra smooth, soft, creamy texture with vivid color payoff that allows you to draw long continuous lines without flaking. The freshly appiled color is waterproof and smudge-proof. All shades are blendable to create a unique custom look.

- Turquoise - bright aqua

- Citrine - yellow

Primal Mix False Eyelashes - Accessorize with the intricate handcraft work of the primitribe! The long eyelashes boast varying lengths dark hair with vibrant color accents of yellow, green, blue, and pink.

Primal Color Stick - New eye shadow sticks have a creamy texture that dries to a powdery finish. The formula glides on easily allowing for smooth application and blendability on the eyelids. The unique slant tip of the color stick enables precise control of application and the twist-top packaging makes it easy to apply color and go.

- Blazed Gold - gold

- Rich Earth - brown

- Night Maroon - purple

- Misty Grove - green

Primal Mix Blush - Duo-color blush palette combines fresh, soft shades that add a healthy, warm, and natural glow to the skin. The unique color combination can be blended and applied to the face in one stroke or used as individual shades for further accents.

- Echo - amber

- Rhythm - pink

- Soul - peach

Rouge Unlimited - Breaking all boundaries in color creation. High-tech, high-pigment lipstick for unlimited color variation and colors achieve the truest color payoff with rich texture and ultra-smooth application. Enjoy up to eight hours of moisture and color.

- 296 - wine

- 942 - beige

Nail Enamel Supplement Mineral - Glossy shine with a strong color payoff. Quick drying. Long-lasting finish. Formaldehyde and toulene-free formula. Protects against dryness.

- g 960 - pale nude pink

- p 980 - bright pink

I have a love/hate relationship with most of the products in this collection. I hate the bright colored liners and I think that the fake lashes are awful. Other than that, I would like to get several pieces of the collection. I love both of the lipstick shades and the g 960 polish shade. I would also like to get the Primal Color Sticks in the Rare Earth and Blazed Gold shades. I'm not that into any of the blush shades so I will be skipping over them this time.

I guess I am just not really into taking summer makeup shades into fall...

photo courtesy of Shu Uemura

Lippmann Collection Fall 2009 Shades

Lippmann Collection has released two new shades for the fall and also a set of three polishes. The set of three was an early release to Nordstrom for their event in July (I do believe, I may be wrong). The set was released for the tenth anniversary of Lippmann Collection and is sold out all over at the moment.

Celebrate 10th Anniversary Set - contains three new shades made just for this set. The first one is called Superstar and is described on the Lippmann website as being a "show-stopping copper flecked fudge". The second one is called Funky Chunky and is described as being a "sequined sheer black". The last shade is called Ruby Red Slippers and is described as being "Dorothy's shimmering ruby" and is more of a red chunky glitter suspended in clear nail polish.

Marquee Moon - futuristic sequined silver (glitter)

Don't Tell Mama - mood ring blue/green (shimmer)

I want all three of the new items, two of which are already sold out. I will be waiting on the edge of my seat for the Lippmann website to get them all back in. And something that makes the set even more desirable? Apparently Lady GaGa is a fan of Ruby Red Slippers. Such a GaGa color...

photo courtesy of Lippmann Collection