Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder

The Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder is one of my most recent Sephora purchases and I can already say that I have a new obsession with this product.  I first read about this product several years ago in one of the Allure Best of Beauty issues and I have seen that this product has won awards for several years in a row.  I use through powders very slowly and I have been waiting to finish up my last few compacts before purchasing a new one so I have had this one my shopping list for quite a long time.  The Translucent Loose Setting Powder is one of the best selling products at Sephora and one of the top rated powders on their website and it lives up to its reputation.

This product can be purchased anywhere that Laura Mercier is sold, I purchased it at Sephora and will be pulling all of my product details from that company's website.  "An award-winning, silky powder with a touch of sheer coverage to set makeup for lasting.  Translucent Loose Setting Powder locks in makeup for long-lasting wear, without adding weight or texture.  This bestseller creates a modern, matte finish with a touch of sheer coverage, while it absorbs oil and reduces shine all day.  The pros know why it is their favorite: It's a little denser than an average powder, providing super-smooth, even application and blending.  This no-flashback formula means you'll look great in photos, and it creates a soft-focus effect to subtly blur the look of fine lines and imperfections.  This truly translucent shade works on all skintones", states the Sephora website.

I have been using this powder for the past week and I have been very impressed with it so far.  I first tried it with the same big fluffy brush that I would use for pressed powder or bronzer and I found that this is not the best way for me to apply it.  The big brush got product all over the place on my face and I used much more product than I really needed.  I started using the Bare Minerals Flawless Face Brush and this smaller brush allows for more targeted placement and less wasted product.  I have not tried to use any type of powder puff to apply this product as I find that this type of application tends to apply too much product on my dry skin and causes it to cake on my skin.  I am still glad that I received this brush in a Bare Minerals powder foundation kit that I bought a few years ago and I would repurchase this brush if it ever broke.  

The translucent shade adds no color to my face and I do believe that a range of skintones would be able to use this product.  I don't know if those with deeper skintones would be able to use it (at least not all over their face).  I mostly use this product to set my foundation and concealer on my T-Zone and under my eyes.  I usually get a bit oily on my T-Zone throughout the day and I need something to set the undereye concealer that I use every day.  I do use a very little bit of this on my cheeks to set my foundation and create a smooth canvas for blush.  The best mode of application for me is to start with applying this product under my eyes, apply some to my T-Zone and then use what is left on the brush to finish off my cheek area.  I use very little product when applying in this fashion and I will have this product for a quite before needing to repurchase.  I still keep blotting papers in my purse and use these to touch my nose and forehead up around lunchtime.

I can why this Laura Mercier product is a best seller for the brand and a multiple award winner in the Allure Best of Beauty Awards.  I have used a few loose powders over the years and nothing compares to this product, I will repurchase this product as soon as I run out of my current jar and I would recommend it to anyone that it is need of a powder.  I think I have found a new favorite and will look to Allure Beauty Awards for more recommendations!

photo courtesy of Sephora

Laura Mercier Holiday 2013 Collection

I feel that I have stepped away from the holiday collections for the past few days and today I am jumping right back onto the party product and gifting track today.  Today's post is getting this blog back on the gifting track, the Laura Mercier holiday gift collection on the docket for today and I really need to begin thinking more seriously about my holiday shopping list.  I will admit that I haven't really given gifts for others much thought since last month and I must change that.  My goal today is to look at the Laura Mercier collection with the intentions of working on my gift list and not adding any more products from it to my personal collection...

The Laura Mercier gift collection!

Petite Baked Eye Colour Bon Bons - Trios of mini Baked Eye Colours that will delight gift recipients.  An innovative wet/dry Eye Colour formula featuring Baked technology in beautiful shades that last all day. This smudge resistant, lightweight eye colour gently smoothes onto the lid for an even application.
- Amethyst Trio - three shades of purple
- Bronze Trio - three shades of neutrals
- Emerald Trio - three shades of green

Luxe Colour Wardrobe Dual Decker Colour for Eye and Cheeks - Laura Mercier’s ultimate holiday accessory features a range of products that will leave your eyes and cheeks flawlessly glowing. Palette includes:
- Eight eyeshadows in Morning Dew matte, Coffee Ground matte, African Violet luster, Ballerina Pink sateen, Deep Night matte, Dusk luster, Sable sateen and Crystal Beige luster.
- Three Tightline Cake eyeliners in Black Ebony, Ground Espresso and Bleu Marine.

- Two Second Skin cheek colors in Barely Pink and Heather Pink.

- Face highlighter in Golden Shimmer.

- Longwear Crème eye pencil in Espresso.

- Double-Ended Crease/Smudge brush.

- Travel Pony Tail brush.

- Travel Flat eyeliner brush.

- Instructional insert

Artist Palette - Enclosed in a luxurious textured, chocolate brown case, this complete compact includes a large mirror and 12 eye colors hand selected by Laura Mercier. Mix and match for endless eye looks. 0.03 oz x 12 in Eye Colour in Sparkling Dew, Guava, African Violet, Plum Smoke, Kir Royal, Violet Ink, Vanilla Nuts, Primrose, Fresco, Bamboo, Truffle, Espresso Bean.

Luxe Travel Brush Collection - The Laura Mercier travel brush collection features a chic clutch filled with nine go-to brushes for perfect makeup application while you’re on the go. Full-size cheek color brush. Secret Camouflage/Camouflage powder brush. Allover Eye Color/Pony Tail brush. Eye Crease/Smudge brush. Flat Eyeline/Angled eyeliner brush.

Line and Define Mini Longwear Crème Eye Pencil Collection - Cover your eyes in luminous color with a sampler pack of Longer Crème eye pencils by Laura Mercier.  Line, define, and create customizable, all-day eye definition.

- Violet - bright purple

- Espresso - deep warm brown

- Noir - pure black

- Sage - deep olive green

- Cobalt - deep navy blue

Mini Lip Glace Collection - Apply perfectly pigmented, long-lasting colour and brilliant shine.

- Bare Nudes - shades of sheer neutral hues

- Bold Brights - shades of bright pigmented hues

Souffle Body Crème Sampler - A silky, smooth crème that luxuriously nourishes the skin with the lightly whipped feel.

- Ambre Vanille - vanilla, tangerine, and brown sugar

- Fresh Fig - fresh fig and sweet apricot nectar

- Almond Coconut Milk - milk, coconut, almond, and vanilla

- Fresh Pistachio - pistachio and sugar.

Bath and Body Duet - Indulge in the ultimate luxury of a warm, fragranced bath. These softly scented bath salts work to melt away the stresses of the day, while the Soufflé Body Crème exfoliates, softens and soothes skin. Available in Almond Coconut Milk or Creme Brulee.

- Almond Coconut Milk - milk, coconut, almond, and vanilla

- Crème Brulee - warm caramel, spun sugar, and French vanilla bean

Hand Crème Sampler Collection - Give hands a luxurious taste of ultra-rich and velvety hydration.

- Fresh Fig - fresh fig and sweet apricot nectar

- Crème Brulee - warm caramel, spun sugar, and French vanilla bean

- Almond Coconut Milk - milk, coconut, almond, and vanilla

- Crème de Pistachio - pistachio and sugar

Bath and Body Luxe Quartet - Indulge and escape with Laura’s luxe quartet in three delectable gourmande scents, which contains Honey Bath, Body Scrub, Souffle Body Crème and a candle.

- Almond Coconut Milk - milk, coconut, almond, and vanilla

- Crème Brulee - warm caramel, spun sugar, and French vanilla bean

- Ambre Vanille - vanilla, tangerine, and brown sugar

I like the body product gifts in this collection however I have given so many Bath and Body Works gifts to people over the years that I don't know that any of my friends or family would really want anything like these.  I am most interested in picking up a few of the Baked Eye Colour trios, I could many of my friends liking the bronze or the purple shades and this is will be a great gift idea for me.  The other item that I am really interested in is the Lip Glace sets, some of my lip gloss obsessed friends would be more than happy to receive a great gift to feed their obsession.

photo courtesy of Laura Mercier

Laura Mercier Fall 2013 Collection - Dark Spell

Laura Mercier has now brought their fall collection out and this is one of the few from this line that is flirting with the more dramatic shades and trends of the fall season.  This company normally brings out collections and shades that are very easy to wear and can be worn in any type of professional environment and this is a collection that goes against the norm and will be used more for going out and getting dressed up.  This is not a company that is known for carrying very pigmented products and I wonder how some of these shades will perform against companies that are known for carrying very dramatic and high pigmented shades.  I cannot see this company suddenly changing their formulas for this collection release and I am not seeing that NARS has a very competitor...

One photo of this collection proves that there are some very pretty shades included in the collection and I might do an extra bit of fall makeup shopping from this line.  This will be a huge fall for me, I already love products from Chanel and Urban Decay and now I have another collection to obsess over.  I see some new formulas included in this collection, especially a cream eye shadow formula that looks very exciting to me...

Here is the Dark Spell collection from Laura Mercier...

Baked Eye Colour - An innovative wet/dry Eye Colour formula featuring Baked technology in beautiful shades that last all day.  This smudge resistant, lightweight eye colour gently smoothes onto the lid for an even application.  Ultra blendable and versatile, apply dry with the All Over Eye Colour Brush for an even wash of colour or wet with the Crème Eye Colour Brush for a more vibrant effect.  Ophthalmologist tested. Appropriate for contact lens wearers.  Fragrance-Free. Paraben-Free. Dermatologically and allergy tested to minimize the risk of allergy and irritation.
- Magical - white with black
- Mystical - black with silver specs

Sateen Eye Colour - A lightweight eye shadow with a creamy powder texture that provides an immediate release of intense luminous colour with superior blending for a long-wearing, crease-resistant application. Compatible with Laura’s signature 3 and 6 well Custom Compacts, create your personalized look for eyes, cheeks and lips.  Distinctive and full of colour with one stroke application  Unique blendability and silky application imparts a supple film of comfort on the skin.  Creates a harmonious blend of pigment and pearl.  Pop each shade from its compact case and place in a Custom Compact creating a customized eye colour palette.
- Dark Spirit - deep charcoal gray satin

Kohl Eye Pencil - Formulated specifically for lining the inside of the eyelid & the base of the lashes. The soft, creamy formula glides easily along the eyelid, creating a smooth and well-balanced line. The luxurious texture allows anyone to achieve the perfect "smoky eye" with maximum wearability. Each pencil contains a thicker diameter than the Eye Pencil to create a more pigmented, dramatic effect.   Luxurious texture for maximum wearability.  Allows anyone to easily achieve the perfect "smoky eye".  Soft, creamy formula glides easily along the eyelid.  Creates a smooth & well-balanced line.  Contains a thicker diameter than the Eye Pencil to create a more pigmented, dramatic effect.
- Black - deep black

Caviar Stick Eye Colour - A long-wearing, creamy shadow with an innovative, lightweight texture that glides on and adheres to the eyelid perfectly, leaving an even finish that lasts for hours.  Inspired by Laura Mercier's cult classic Caviar Eye Liner, Caviar Stick Eye Colour offers a new technique to enhance the smoky eye look. In a range of eight beautiful shades, this creamy formula provides endless options for a flawless smoky eye. Each convenient stick is long-wearing, transfer- and crease-resistant. The colour glides onto lids and blends easily with a rich colour payoff.
- Smoke - dark charcoal

Spellbound Facial Illuminator - Beautiful face illuminating hybrid product with a soft rose gold shimmer perfect for highlighting; the unique formula of pure light-reflecting pigments provides buildable long-wearing colour. 

Nail Lacquer - Limited Edition. The ultra-smooth formula provides chip-resistant, fast-drying and long-lasting color. Nail Lacquer does not contain formaldehyde, toluene, or dibutyl phthalate (DBP).
- Forbidden - deep forest green with black shimmer
- Bewitched - medium cool nude shimmer

Lip Plumper - Instantly plump, hydrate and moisturize for healthier, sexier looking lips.  A refreshing, cooling effect builds up over 20 minutes to plump lips, lasting up to two hours.  Infusion of unique ingredients penetrate skin, stimulate collagen production and beneficially smooth the lip surface.  Offer a slight tint to the lips for natural looking lips that are perfectly pouty and kissable.
- Charmed - peach
- Rose Flush - plum neutral rose

Crème Smooth Lip Colour - A luxurious lipstick that gives lips the ultimate in colour, texture, and finish. In one smoothing swipe, the crème formula envelops lips in rich colour with a semi-lustrous finish.  Cushiony, lightweight creamy texture feels comfortable on lips.  Provides medium to full coverage with a semi-lustrous finish.  Longwearing formula (6 hours to 8 hours).  Provides rich colour with one smoothing swipe.  Colour glides evenly onto lips; does not skip or drag.  Give the appearance of visibly fuller and younger looking lips.  Formula does not bleed or feather; does not dry or fade; does not setting into lip lines.  Features an elegant, modern case with a metalized finish.  Dermatologically and allergy tested to minimize the risk of allergy and irritation.  Fragrance-free.
- Angelic - delicate nude pink
- Merlot - deep burgundy

I am little bit disappointed by this collection, there really isn't anything in it that sets Laura Mercier apart from the rest of the beauty collections.  I like many of the products but I can't say that there is anything that I truly love and would be obsessed with buying this season.  My favorite product is the eye shadow that I have pictured with the collection, the Baked Eye Colour in Magical is the most unique product in this collection and the only one that I would really want to add to my fall shopping season.  I have very few white eye shadows and this one would work well with the charcoals and blacks that are already part of my growing eye shadow collection.

I like many of the other products but I can't say that I must have them.  The Lip Plumper interests me, I haven't used this type of product in years but this formula does not seem like it will give me the "Goldie Hawn in First Wives Club" lips.  I might have to try out the Rose Flush color, this will be a good rosy hue for me that I will be able to wear all the time.  I am looking at this product as more of a hydrating lip stain than a gloss or stick.  I also do like the Angelic shade of the Crème Smooth Lip Colour, I would like to broaden my lipstick collection and add more brands to it.  The last piece of the collection that I would like is the Caviar Stick Eye Colour, I want to try using it with a smoky eye look and see how it compares to the MAC formula that I typically use.

Not the best collection of the season but I doubt that it is the worst.  It has a few good pieces but none that inspire beauty lush from me.

photo courtesy of Nordstrom

Laura Mercier Summer 2013 - Folklore Collection

The next collection that we are looking at for summer is the newest one from Laura Mercier, usually there is more than one collection made for each season so there is a good chance that we will be returning to this company within the next few weeks.  This seems like this winter went on forever and now we are finally getting into the spring weather and I am not yet ready to start thinking about bronzers and self tanners but the collections are out and I will start having these types of items at the back of my mind.  This new collection from Laura Mercier is named Folklore and contains wonderful neutrals and bronzes for every facial feature along with several well placed pops of bright color.  The brights will be very beautiful against a fake tan and I am excited to see how Laura Mercier decided to work these types of shades into her bronze collection.

Folklore will be a great collection for the summer and for those who love to sport a fake bronze look from Memorial Day to Labor Day, I am very excited to see what I will want to buy from this collection and start putting together a summer shopping list.  "It's a naturally bronzed, sun-drenched look that is created with rich earthy tones and accentuated with bold tribal shades.  Perfect for summer days and nights."  I am thinking that I might find a new bronzer in this collection along with some new brights for lips and eyes.  I was very happy with my MAC bronzer all of last summer and I still have some more to use this summer but I am still keeping my eyes open for new formulas that I might want to try later on.

Here is the new collection from Laura Mercier!

Illuminating Eye Colour - Eye colour with a multi-dimensional, luminous pearl finish with a soft, bouncy texture for excellent colour pay-off and a smooth, even application.  Provides a multi-dimensional, luminous pearl finish an incredible metallic effect.  Soft, bouncy texture provides excellent colour pay-off.  Applies smoothly onto eyelids without dragging, skipping or pulling skin.  Stays colour-true and does not fade throughout the day.  Long wearing formula wears all day (8 hours).  Provides perfect adherence to the eyelid.  Crease-resistant, transfer-resistant.  Non-drying and comfortable formula.  Designed to apply with an even colour release to blend without being powdery or dusty.  Dermatologically and allergy tested to minimize the risk of allergy and irritation.  Suitable for all skin types, even sensitive.  Ophthalmologist tested.
- Fire Glow - copper shimmer
- Sun Glow - gold with shimmer
- Earth Glow - deep brown

Creme Eye Liner - An ultra-smooth, water-proof creamy eye liner that applies with the ease and smooth silky finish of a gel and the precision of a liquid liner. Smudge and transfer-resistant, this long-wearing formula goes on “foolproof” with the Laura Mercier Angled Eye Liner Brush.  Ultra-smooth creamy formula provides precision of a liquid liner, with a silkier, softer finish.  Water-proof formula for extended long-wear (8 hours).  Smudge, transfer, crease-proof formula.  Easy to use, allows for mistake-proof application.  Glides on smoothly and evenly; does not drag on skin.  Product has ample playtime, staying workable to allow for the perfect application before it dries.  Delivers immediate colour impact and intensity.  Creates a fine, precise line and provides definition in one stroke.  Provides a beautiful semi-matte, non-oily finish with full coverage colour.  Non-greasy; non-drying formula is comfortable to wear.  Suitable for all skin types, even sensitive; suitable for contact lens wearers.  Ophthalmologist and dermatologically tested.  Allergy tested to minimize the risk of allergy and irritation.
- Canard - teal
- Cobalt - vibrant midtone blue

Faux Lash Mascara - Give real lashes extreme volume and length for intense exaggeration and drama. The formula is extra-smooth, glossy and good-for-lashes, created with a blend of waxes and absolutely no fibers. Build rich, exaggerated lashes that are extraordinarily thick, super-shiny and conditioned.  Blend of waxes deliver extraordinary volume.  Provides a “false lashes” effect for high impact lashes.  Absolutely no fibers.  Extra-smooth, glossy formula.  Oversized brush builds lashes for maximum impact.  Provides buildable volume for a day to night look.
- Sierra Brown - chocolate brown
- Black - black

Long Lash Mascara - Long Lash Mascara extends and precisely separates the thinnest, shortest, hard-to-reach lashes by expertly scooping up and lengthening each lash while delivering just the right amount of product. The perfectly engineered brush, designed to meet Laura’s specifications, dramatically lengthens and defines lashes while enhancing the eyes. An innovative stretch formula lengthens, separates and curls each lash making lashes appear longer in just two strokes.  Long-wearing, water-resistant and smudge-proof.  Contains rich dark pigments to enhance lash colour for maximum drama.  Clump-free, fiber-free, paraben-free and ophthalmologist tested.  Suitable for contact lens wearers.
- Bleu - navy blue

Baked Blush Bronze - Laura Mercier Baked Blush Bronze is a baked powder with five complimentary shades that together provide the perfect, natural colour for cheeks and face. Each tile is hand-mixed with a unique design.  Provides healthy-looking, natural colour to cheeks and face.  Applies smoothly onto skin and blends effortlessly.  Ultra lightweight formula, feels weightless on skin.  Smooth, silky, velvety texture feels comfortable on skin.  Longwearing formula wears all day (8 hours).  Colour stays true without oxidizing for an even wear.  Non-dusty; non-drying formula.  Dermatologist tested.  Suitable for all skin types, even sensitive.  Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect skin cells against the effects of free radicals.  Jojoba Oil is moisturizing and helps soften skin.  Spherical Powders allow for increased comfort and blendability.  Fragrance-free.
- Ritual - mix of all shades of bronze

Lip Crayon - A smooth lip colour that provides pure, long-wearing colour to lips in three on-trend shades for summer. With a convenient purse-friendly package, Lip Crayon never needs sharpening, making it perfect for travel and touch-ups on the go.  Delivers smooth, pure colour to lips in one swipe.  Sheer to medium, buildable coverage with a natural, luminous finish.  Applies smoothly onto skin; does not skip, drag or tug.  Moisturizing, non-drying formula leaves lips feeling soft and nourished.  Feels lightweight and comfortable on lips.  Long-wearing colour (8 hours) stays colour-true throughout the day.  Transfer-resistant; does not bleed or feather; does not settle or migrate into fine lines.  Portable package is perfect for touch-ups and travel; never needs sharpening.  Dermatologist tested.  Suitable for all skin types, even sensitive.
- Folklore - fushcia
- Mayan Sun - orange pink
- Burnt Clay - deep brown

Angled Eye Liner Brush - Specifically designed by Laura Mericer to work with the Crème Eye Liner, the ANGLED EYE LINER BRUSH uses high quality synthetic fibers in a narrow, exact point with a thin profile that creates the most precise looks. Angled ferrule allows you to reach up over the lashes to easily apply along the lash line.  Shorter handle is easy to hold and lets you get even closer to your mirror for a more precise application.  Unique point lets you determine the width of the line- simply increase pressure to widen the definition.  Professional nickel-plated ferrule will not rust or discolor when used with liquid liners.

Body Bronzing Makeup - Available for a limited time, Laura Mercier Body Bronzing Makeup instantly reveals healthy, radiant, bronzed skin without long-term commitment.  Satiny smooth formula with light reflective particles helps disguise imperfections.  Adds a subtle all-over sheen.  Lightly scented with the Almond Coconut Milk.  Streak-free, transfer resistant and easily washes off when ready.  Available for a limited time only.

I am a bit disappointed to not see more of a bronzer selection in this collection.  In years previous, Laura Mercier's summer collections already has several selections of bronzers and you could try all of them and find the best formula and shade for your skin.  I am unhappy to only see the Body Bronzing Makeup (which comes out every single year) and the Baked Bronzer.  I have never been interested in the Body Bronzing Makeup, I prefer to use self tanner every few days and then not worry about having to apply a separate bronzer.  I am interested in trying the Bake Bronzer and seeing how natural it looks on my skin tone, I will need to visit Sephora when this collection comes to their counter.

I am most excited about the eye makeup from this collection, I am really interested in the bright teal cream eye liner even though I have never used a shade like this before.  This might be the perfect time to try it out as this is a shade that would really pop against tanned skin.  The Cobalt shade is not what I find flattering for my eye color and I will skip over this shade.  The next items that I want from the eye makeup part of this collection are the pale gold and copper shades in the new Illuminating Eye Color, I have never see this product before and I hope this it is not limited edition for this collection only.  The last piece from this collection that I am considering buying is the bright pink lip crayon, my lip product collection only continues to grow and the end will not be in sight anytime soon.

I like this collection but I was hoping to find more bronzers in it, I prefer the eye makeup from this collection and will be using some of these gold and bronze shades in the late spring and early summer.

photo courtesy of Laura Mercier

Laura Mercier Spring 2013 Collection - Arabesque

This spring, we have been seeing many collections that are based around pastel hues and will be perfect to flatter pale complexions.  Since my complexion is always the palest shade of foundation that I can find, I take note of any makeup collection that will work best for those of us with skin similar to mine.  Laura Mercier has often created great pastel color collections in the past and therefore it is no surprise that her newest spring collection is a series of beautiful pastels for every facial feature.  I wear pale pink blush all year long and I am looking forward to seeing what shades are released from this company for the next season. 

Arabesque is the first spring collection of 2013 from Laura Mercier, I still fully except a second collection later on in the spring.  This collection is all pastels and will work in the very beginning of the spring and then all throughout the rest of the season, this collection will contain some great choices for the time when my winter complexion is still in place but the warmer days are calling for a different types of makeup shades. 

The Laura Mercier website is not working well for some reason so I am pulling all the product and shade information from the Nordstrom website (while I stalking it to see if MAC has slowly released any new items from Archie's Girls yet).  "Soft and fresh, Arabesque features a poetic blend subtle pinks highlights, serene neutrals and blue hues, accented by full, fluttering lashes for a serenely romantic palette."  This collection starts out with an eye palette that is sure to sell out and will help to create all kinds of romantic, pastel eyes for the ernd of the winter months and into the spring.

The spring collection from Laura Mercier...

Arabesque Baked Eye Color Palette - Laura Mercier Baked Eye Color Palette perfectly pairs five baked eye colors into one convenient compact. Create endless looks using each shade dry for a more natural look or wet to add intensity and drama to the eyes. Contour and define eyes with the mini double-ended brush for on-the-go glamour. The palette contains Champagne, Sepia, Mink, Malt and Sterling Baked Eye Colors.
- Champagne - pale champagne with shimmer finish
- Sepia - medium taupe with cool shimmer finish
- Mink - deep brown with cool shimmer finish
- Malt - off white with shimmer finish
- Sterling - pale slate blue with cool shimmer finish

Arabesque Eye Pencil - Provides precise definition and easy, smooth application. Goes on evenly without 'dragging' or pulling the delicate eye area.
- Charcoal Gray - medium slate gray
- Midnight Bleu - deep navy blue

Creme Cheek Colour - Laura Mercier Creme Cheek Color is a long-wearing cream blush that provides natural-looking color with sheer, buildable coverage and a soft, velvety finish.
- Blaze - deep warm rose cream
- Canyon - medium tan
- Praline - deep tan

Arabesque Lip Stain - Laura Mercier Lip Stain provides the visual effect of a stain with the comfort and sheen of a lip gloss. The long-term wear with a satin, balmy finish leaves the look of effortless polish and understated sophistication.
- Mulberry - sheer deep red stain
- Shy Pink - neutral medium pink stain

Arabesque Lip Glace - Laura Mercier Lip Glacé is a high-shine, perfectly pigmented lip gloss that makes lips appear fuller, virtually enhancing any skin tone by creating a subtle contrast in texture. Containing the Laura Mercier Lip Complex, Lip Glacé hydrates and protects lips, leaving a wonderfully smooth surface. The non-sticky formula plumps and conditions lips, adding a glamorous touch without looking too heavy.  For sheer translucent coverage, try Crystal or Lilac. For medium (soft pigment) coverage, try Baby Doll, Bare Beige, Bellini, Sparkling, Opal, Petal and Violet. For full opaque coverage, try Ambre Rose, Blush, Bonbon, Brownberry and Rose.
- Bare Pink - pale blue pink

Arabesque Creme Smooth Lip Color - Laura introduces a luxurious lipstick that gives lips the ultimate in color, texture and finish. In one smoothing swipe, the cream formula envelops lips in rich color with a semi-lustrous finish. The cushiony, lightweight texture feels comfortable, while pure olive oil and vitamin E nourish. Features an elegant, modern case with a metalized finish.
- Arabesque - pale neutral pink cream

Arabesque Nail Lacquer - Laura Mercier Nail Lacquer creates beautifully manicured nails with long-lasting, chip-resistant, protective color and high shine. The ultrasmooth pigment enhances any nails and a fast-drying element expedites the drying process.
- En Pointe - pale pink cream

Faux Lash Mascara - Open your eyes to Laura's luxurious new mascara, created specifically to give eyes the look of false lashes. As a renowned makeup artist, Laura really knows the dramatic impact of false lashes. With that in mind, she created Faux Lash to give real lashes extreme volume and length for intense exaggeration and drama. The formula is extra-smooth, glossy and good-for-lashes, created with a blend of waxes and absolutely no fibers. Build rich, exaggerated lashes that are extraordinarily thick, super-shiny and conditioned. You'll never need to bother with false eyelashes again!  The key ingredient to getting the look is the Faux Lash Mascara brush. The oversized brush builds thick, beautiful lashes. The dual-sided brush head has short bristles on one side that provide maximum color deposit and long bristles on the other to allow for maximum, buildable coverage.
- Black - black

I am not quite sure how these Blush shades work with the rest of the collection, I wonder if the Nordstrom website put the wrong shades up since they don't match the model or any other piece in this collection.  Barring the blushes, I find this to be a very pretty collection for spring and it will work very well on any one with pale skin; if your skin is really any deeper than pale-medium, this collection will not be the more flattering that you could buy for the spring.

This collection has some very high points for me and some products that I plan to skip over.  First the products that I really love.  My favorite piece of the collection is the Creme Smooth Lip Color in Arabasque, this shade will work perfectly in a conservative office environment, with a natural look, and also with any eye makeup look that I could come up with.  In addition to the Creme Smooth Lip Color, I want to order the Lip Glace in Bare Pink.  All of the same comments that I just made on the Creme Smooth Lip Color apply for this shade also and I must order both of these shades.  The new shade in the Nail Lacquer is my last must have from this limited edition shade range, En Pointe is a lovely pale pink that I will use all the time.

I am not really excited about the eye shadow palette, I was truly expecting to be blown away but it but I find it to be quite ordinary.  I don't believe that any of the shades are limited edition and I could get them anytime, even if any of them are limited edition, none of them are so unique that I couldn't find a very similar shade from either Laura Mercier or another company.  I know that I would never use the slate blue shade in this palette so it might just make more sense to buy the other four shades by themselves.  I want to try this mascara formula but I can buy this anytime so it isn't at the top of my shopping list for this collection.

I was really going after some great eye makeup from this collection but the exact opposite ended up being the case and I found some great lip products instead.  I do wonder how many lipsticks and glosses have been added to my shopping list over the past month...

photo courtesy of Nordstrom

Laura Mercier Holiday Color Collection - Art Deco Muse

Yesterday, we looked at some of the best color gifts from Laura Mercier and today we will look at the single product collection that was released for the holidays.  This collection is named Art Deco Muse and the shades in this look take me back to the 1920s and 1930s, the decades where being ladylike was key and heels were a requirement.  There are many days that I would love to go back in time and wear all the fashions of other eras.  Make that almost every single day of my life - I just finished reading a book about the history of shoes and the relationship that women have had with them.  Too bad I can't be a professional beauty and fashion historian...that would be the ideal job for me!

Anyway...back to the present and the newest Laura Mercier color collection!  Art Deco Must contains a great red lip shade that is worn on the model and it instantly gets my attention and makes me really want to explore this collection.  "Gilded.  Glamourous.  Striking.  Eyes are sharply designed and defined - lined in black, with gilded shimmering eye colours as a beautiful golden background.  Lips wear super-shiny red lacquer - boldly painted on to make a stunning statement.  The face is contoured, sculpted, and a true work of art."  Gold and red?!  This is a very typical holiday collection and also had my name written all over it!

Here is the collection...

Illuminating Eye Colour - Eye colour with a multi-dimensional, luminous pearl finish with a soft, bouncy texture for excellent colour pay-off and a smooth, even application.  This item is part of the Art Deco Muse Collection, our Holiday Collection that was inspired by the decorative architecture, style and mood of the Art Deco periods in Paris in the mid-1920’s. Laura created rich makeup shades of gold, red and black to beautifully contract each other. This item is offered for a limited time only.
- Gilded Moonlight - true gold
- Gilded Rosegold - golden copper
- Gilded Bronze - golden topaz
- Gilded Platinum - golden platinum

Graphic Liquid Eye Liner - The ultimate liquid eye liner! Graphic Liquid Eye Liner is a glossy, long wearing liquid eyeliner with an easy to apply felt tip applicator.  This item is part of the Art Deco Muse Collection, our Holiday Collection that was inspired by the decorative architecture, style and mood of the Art Deco periods in Paris in the mid-1920’s. Laura created rich makeup shades of gold, red and black to beautifully contract each other. This item is a new permanent addition to our eyeliner collection.
- Black - black

Creme Smooth Lip Colour - Laura introduces a luxurious new lipstick that gives lips the ultimate in colour, texture, and finish. In one smoothing swipe, the crème formula envelops lips in rich colour with a semi-lustrous finish. The cushiony, lightweight texture feels comfortable, while pure Olive Oil and Vitamin E nourish lips. Features an elegant, modern case with a metalized finish.  Deco Rouge, Tamara Red and Sienna are part of the Art Deco Muse Collection, our Holiday Collection that was inspired by the decorative architecture, style and mood of the Art Deco periods in Paris in the mid-1920’s. Laura created rich makeup shades of gold, red and black to beautifully contract each other. This item is offered for a limited time only.
- Deco - true red orange
- Tamara Red - brick red
- Sienna - brick rose

Lip Lacquer - Provides high coverage colour with a glossy high-shine lacquered finish.  This item is part of the Art Deco Muse Collection, our Holiday Collection that was inspired by the decorative architecture, style and mood of the Art Deco periods in Paris in the mid-1920’s. Laura created rich makeup shades of gold, red and black to beautifully contract each other. This item is offered for a limited time only.
- Lacque Rouge - true red

Lip Glace - A high-shine, perfectly pigmented lip gloss with rich, long-lasting colour and brilliant shine that creates the appearance of fuller lips. Any skin tone is virtually enhanced by creating a subtle contrast in texture.  Gilded Veil is part of the Art Deco Muse Collection, our Holiday Collection that was inspired by the decorative architecture, style and mood of the Art Deco periods in Paris in the mid-1920’s. Laura created rich makeup shades of gold, red and black to beautifully contract each other. This item is offered for a limited time only.
- Gilded Veil - sheer golden sparkle

Nail Lacquer - Limited Edition. The ultra-smooth formula provides chip-resistant, fast-drying and long-lasting color. Nail Lacquer does not contain formaldehyde, toluene, or dibutyl phthalate (DBP).  Noir Glace, Crimson and Moderne Red are part of the Art Deco Muse Collection, our Holiday Collection that was inspired by the decorative architecture, style and mood of the Art Deco periods in Paris in the mid-1920’s. Laura created rich makeup shades of gold, red and black to beautifully contract each other. This item is offered for a limited time only.
- Noir Glace - deep brown
- Crimson - merlot
- Moderne Red - true bright red

Faux Lash Mascara - Open your eyes to Laura’s luxurious new mascara—created specifically to give eyes the look of false lashes.   As a renowned makeup artist, Laura really knows the dramatic impact of false lashes. With that in mind, she created her latest mascara to give real lashes extreme volume and length for intense exaggeration and drama. The formula is extra-smooth, glossy and good-for-lashes, created with a blend of waxes and absolutely no fibers. Build rich, exaggerated lashes that are extraordinarily thick, super-shiny and conditioned. You’ll never need to bother with false eyelashes again!  Key ingredient to getting the look is the Faux Lash Mascara Brush – the over-sized brush builds thick, beautiful lashes. The dual sided brush head has short bristles on one side that provide maximum color deposit and long bristles on the other to allow for maximum buildability.
- Black - black

Caviar Eye Liner - An innovative semi-crème eye liner with a velvet matte finish that delivers long-lasting pure colour with a rich texture similar to the Laura Mercier Kohl Eye Pencils.
- Black - true black

Second Skin Cheek Colour - A light-as-air, velvety powder blush that sweeps on silky sheer color easily and evenly. With skin-silkening natural botanicals, skin not only looks but also feels beautiful all day long. Compatible with Laura’s signature 3 and 6 well Custom Compacts, create your personalized look for eyes, cheeks and lips.
- Wild Bouquet - medium neutral pink beige

Shimmer Bloc - Shimmer Bloc is a unique baked formula that applies effortlessly while brightening the eyes, cheeks & body with a hint of natural colour and light. Light-reflecting properties blend together to give the skin a healthy all-over glow. The modern wearable pearl leaves skin gleaming without being too frosty or metallic. Layer over Bronzing Gel or Tinted Moisturizer for a natural sheen.
- Golden Mosaic - shades of champange, gold, and light bronze

I love, love, love this collection!  This is up there with my favorite collections of the season and will make my top five favorites, I must go to Sephora and pick up some of these products and shades.  So far, I have been seeing so many great collections that center around gilded eyes and red lips and this is yet another great example of how well this look works on so many ladies.  I just love the makeup look on the model for the collection and I know that I would find several shades that will work for me, since my skin is just as pale and my hair always had a reddish cast to it (no matter how much I have tried to cover it up in the past). 

My initial shopping list for this collection is pretty long so I need to begin to narrow down a few favorites (if I want to buy anyone gifts this holiday season!).  I know myself and I know that I will start out with wanting a new shade of red lipstick so my first choice from the collection will be the Creme Smooth Lip Colour in Deco, this shade does state that is has "orange" in it but it doesn't look warm in the picture on the website, I will have to check this one out at the counter but I really want it as of now.  My second choice from this collection is the limited edition Illuminating Eye Colour, the formula on this product sounds as though it is similar to the Illusoire d'Ombre from Chanel (and you all know that I cannot rave enough about that formula!) and I really want to get one of these shadows.  If I have to choose shades here, I want Gilded Rosegold and Gilded Moonlight, I will use these shades all the time.

After I get the initial products, there are a few yet that I want to buy but don't really need at the moment.  I would love to have another formula of liquid eye liner, my tube of MAC Penultimate is being to run low and I will need to either replace it or try something else out pretty soon.  I would also like the blush shade that is paired up with this collection, I have never tried a blush from this company and I want to see how their formula performs.  Lastly, I wouldn't mind getting the new Nail Lacquer formula in the Moderne Red shade and the Caviar Eye Liner in Black.  And the new mascara formula too!

photo courtesy of Nordstrom

Laura Mercier Holiday 2012 - Holiday Color Gift Collections

Laura Mercier has released a series of collections for the holidays; one is a single product color collection that will help to create the perfect party look and the rest of the collections are all gift collections.  Tommorrow we will look at the Art Deco Muse collection and see what type of look Laura Mercier believes will be a party perfect look, today we will look at the most exciting of the holiday gift collections.  There are three holiday gift collections, one is for little color palettes and sets, one is for bath and body products, and the other one is brush sets and rolls.  I have decided that we will only look at the holiday color gift part of the collections, this one is the best of the collections and has the potential to please a ton of the ladies on my shopping list.  Feel free to look at the other collections but I am not super impressed and I will be skipping over them, there are just too many gift collections and sometimes I have to choose the best of the best to cover.

The Holiday Color Gift collection contains a combination of palettes and gift sets.  I already see one palette will a full range of products from Laura Mercier and this looks as though it would be one of the best gifts of the entire holiday season.  We will be starting with that palette...  I also see some pretty little lip gloss sets and little eye shadow palettes that will make perfect stocking stuffers and I bet that I will find something for myself in this collection.  "Tis the season to look flawless", is the gift collection description from Laura Mercier and I completely agree with this thought...and all of these sets and palettes will help to create the coveted flawless look that Laura Mercier is known for creating.

Here is the color part of the Holiday Gift collection!

Glamour Wardrobe - Dual Decker Colour for Eyes, Cheeks, and Lips - The ultimate holiday accessory in one super-luxe two level palette.  Our exclusive palette of Laura’s hand-selected shades gives you glamorous options for eyes, cheeks and lips. This perfect holiday accessory is a super-luxe two-level palette that holds eight Eye Colours, five Lip Glazes and four Sheer Crème Cheek Colours, along with expert tools for infinite colour combinations that take you from day to night.  The top palette contains Buttercream, Peridot, Heather Plum, Midnight Navy, Coffee Ground, Cherrywood, Sandstone and Sable Eye Colours (in range of finishes from matte to high pearl), a Double-Ended Crease/Smudge Brush and Single Ponytail Brush, plus a full-size mirror. A quick twist of the innovative palette opens to reveal bottom layer shades of Rose Glow, Pink Veil, Golden Glow, Bronze Veil Sheer Crème Crème Cheek Colours and Lip Glazes in Chambord, Sugarplum, Papaya, Dolce, Brick Lip Glazes and a deluxe Lip Brush for flawless application. It’s your complete colour wardrobe in one travel-friendly dual decker palette.
- 8 Eye Colours (clockwise from top left corner): Buttercream (Matte), Peridot (Luster- Limited Edition), Heather Plum (Luster - Limited Edition), Midnight Navy (Sateen - Limited Edition), Sable (Sateen), Sandstone (Sateen), Cherrywood (Luster - Limited Edition), Coffee Ground (Matte)
- 5 Lip Glazes (from left to right): Chambord, Sugarplum, Papaya, Dolce, Brick
- 4 Sheer Crème Cheek Colours (from left to right): Rose Glow, Pink Veil, Golden Glow, Bronze Veil
- 4 Brushes: Travel Pony Tail Brush (for eye), Double-Ended Crease/Smudge Brush (for eye), Travel Lip Colour Brush

Deluxe Travel Brush Collection - Everything you need for flawless makeup application with 9 travel-friendly professional tools in a chic carrier case.  Brush up on beauty this holiday season with Laura Mercier’s must-have Deluxe Travel Brush Collection for flawless makeup application. Perfect for on-the-go, this sleek, chic brush case features a rigid, hard shell design with two pockets and a removable mesh pouch housing a combination of nine professional Brushes for face, cheeks, eyes and brows.
- Double-Ended Secret Camouflage/Camouflage Powder Brush
- Double-Ended All Over Eye Colour/ Pony Tail Brush
- Double-Ended Flat Eye Liner/Smudge Brush
- Double-Ended Brow Definer/Brow Grooming Brush
- Full-Size Cheek Colour Brush

Colour To Go Portable Palette for Eyes, Cheeks, and Lips - Laura’s latest for on-the-go glamour is a double decker palette of classic colour essentials.  Laura Mercier’s Colour-To-Go Portable Palette for Eyes, Cheeks & Lips provides a complete look in one convenient compact. Portable and purse friendly, this new double decker design features a full size mirror along with all of your colour essentials. The top level is all about eyes with a trio of Eye Colours including a highlighter, midtone and definer shades, plus a Tightline Cake Eye Liner for added intensity. The bottom level houses a Bronzing Pressed Powder and Second Skin Cheek Colour for a sunkissed glow and pinch of colour on the cheeks. Also included is a mini Lip Glacé tucked inside to finish the look. Available in two classically neutral options –Cool Neutrals & Warm Neutrals.
- Cool Neutrals - 3 Eye Colours: Diamond Pink (Luster - Limited Edition), Plum Smoke (Matte), Provence Purple (Sateen - Limited Edition)/Tightline Cake Eye Liner: Violet Asphalt (Limited Edition)/Bronzing Pressed Powder: Golden Bronze/Second Skin Cheek Colour: Heather Pink/Lip Glacé: Raspberry (Limited Edition)
- Warm Neutrals - 3 Eye Colours: Ballerina Pink (Luster - Limited Edition), Rosy Taupe (Luster -Limited Edition), Cocoa Brown (Sateen - Limited Edition)/Tightline Cake Eye Liner: Ground Espresso (Limited Edition)/Bronzing Pressed Powder: Soft Bronze (Limited Edition)/Second Skin Cheek Colour: Pink Lotus/Lip Glacé: Baby Doll

Mini Lip Glace Collection - Give lips extra holiday sparkle, gloss and shine, with these collections of five colour coordinated Lip Glacés.  Laura Mercier’s Mini Lip Glacé Collection features five colour coordinated Lip Glacés available in two separate collections – Soft Nudes and Rich Berries. Tailored to shade preference, the Soft Nudes Collection includes shades of pale pink, shimmering peach and dusty mauve for a subtle, more demure look, while the Rich Berries Collection offers bolder, brighter hues in deeper rose, red and plum shades. Wear solo for a soft-shimmer tint, mix together to create your own personal shade or layer with your favorite Lip Colour.
- Rich Berries - Violet/Rose/Cerise (Limited Edition)/Sangria (Limited Edition)/Bare Beige
- Soft Nudes - Bare Pink/Sweetheart (Limited Edition)/Bijoux (Limited Edition)/Bare Baby (Limited Edition)/Bare Blush

Mini Baked Eye Trio - Dress up your holiday look this season with Laura Mercier’s Petite Baked Eye Colour Trio – Wet/Dry. Featuring three Baked Eye Colours in a range of shimmering shades, this petite and portable palette is the perfect way to take your look from day to night. For an even wash of colour, apply dry, or for more vibrant shimmer, simply dampen brush with water and apply wet.
- Smoky - deep black/medium silver gray/light silver shimmer
- Golden Metallics - deep forest green flecked with gold/medium cool bronze/pale champagne

Smoky Effects Mini Kohl Eye Pencil Collection - This complete collection of eight deluxe mini Kohl Eye Pencils give you infinite ways to line, define and get Laura’s signature smoky sultry eye. Features seven of Laura’s best-selling shades, plus NEW exclusive Jet Black.  Give eyes sultry new appeal with Laura’s complete Kohl Pencil line-up, plus a new, exclusive Jet Black shade for high-impact definition. The Smoky Effects Mini Kohl Eye Pencil Collection features eight deluxe mini Kohl Eye Pencils in a range of versatile shades that give you infinite ways to line, define and get Laura’s signature sultry smoky eye. Each pencil is formulated specifically for lining the inside of the eyelid and the base of the lashes. The soft, creamy formula glides easily along the eyelid to create a smooth, well-balanced line and the luxurious texture provides maximum wearability.
- Black Violet/Brown Copper/Stormy Gray/Black Gold/Black Turquoise/Black Navy/Antique Jade/Jet Black

My favorite piece of the collection is the large palette that I have pictured here, I want this palette and I really do understand why it is listed as one of the top picks on the Sephora website.  This is a great gift for a close friend or family, it contains a full range of the best products and shades from Laura Mercier and will create so many beautiful looks for the holiday season.  This is a really special gift and I would love to open this up on Christmas morning.  I am currently deciding if I should even try and wait for holidays themselves or just buy it right now, i will have to see if it sells out quickly on the Sephora website...

The little lip gloss and eye shadow sets are perfect stocking stuffers.  If I had to choose which sets to buy for my friends, I would be most likely to order the lip gloss set that is full of the fun berry shades, all of my friends would be very excited to receive this set and the shades will be perfect now and then well into the spring months.  In fact, this set would be great for me as well...

I love this gift collection from Laura Mercier even though it is giving me more shopping ideas for myself instead of just gift ideas for others.  The first palette is one of the best choices that I have seen all season, both for gift ideas and items that I really to purchase for myself.  The little sets for eyes and lips are great for little gifts and stocking stuffers and sure to be a delight for everyone on your list!

Now onto Art Deco Muse!

photo courtesy of Laura Mercier

Laura Mercier Fall 2012 Collection - Cinema Noir

One of most anticipated fall collections is Cinema Noir from Laura Mercier, this collection is full of muted, smoky shades that are perfect for the upcoming cooler weather.  I have been interested in this collection since I first saw hints of it several weeks ago and now it is finally available on the Laura Mercier website.  The first aspect of this collection that caught my attention was the name of the line, Cinema Noir is a great title for a fall collection and makes me think of the glamour age of the late 1940s and 1950s.  I have been all over the retro look lip with prominent red lips and this makeup collection is an extension of the look. 

This new collection features products and shades that will create a strong smoky eye look with a slightly more muted lip look.  I see that there is at least one more new nail polish hue in this collection, I love that Laura Mercier is heading into the nail polish market and that I have yet another collection to purchase shades from.  "Makeup is modern and dramatic.  Eyes wear muted shades in smoky mixes of teals and chocolates, blended together to create a true sultry appeal.  Lashes are long and voluminous, defining and enhancing the eyes.  Lips have a creamy soft finish in shades of roses and mauves, while cheeks are luminous and glowing."  I am all over new eye makeup this fall, hopefully I will find something new in this collection.  This company has released several great collections so far this year and this collection looks to be yet another winner.

Here is the collection...

Eye Colour Duet - New.  Limited edition.  The Eye Colour Duet immediately releases intense luminous colour with superior blending in two complementary shades.  The creamy powder texture provides distinctive full colour and unique blendability. 
- Suspense - neutral beige and plum brown (both are matte finishes)
- Mystere - taupe and deep navy (taupe is a matte finish, deep navy is Luster finish)

Tightline Cake Eye Liner - An easy-to-use, cake liner that delivers long-lasting color payoff that doesn't fade throughout the day for flawlessly defined eyes.  Applied with Laura's artisitc technique using the Flat Eye Liner Brush begin underneath the root fo the upper lash line and wiggle the brush between individual lashes.  Perfect for on-the-go, pop out your favorite shade from its compact and place it in a 3 or 6-well Custom Compact from a customized colour palette.
- Deep Teal - deep blue green
- Ground Expresso - deep neutral brown

Shimmer Bloc - Shimmer Bloc is a unique baked formula thaty applies effortlessly while brightening the eyes, cheeks, and body with a  hint of natural colour and light.  Light-reflecting properties blend together to give the skin a healthy all-over glow.  The modern wearable pearl leaves skin gleaming without being too frosty or metallic.  Layer over Bronzing Gel or Tinted Moisturizer for a natural sheen. 
- Starlet Mosaic - golden peach

Shimmer Lip Colour - Laura Mercier Shimmer Lip Colour delivers ultra-rich colour in an irresistibly lightweight formula.  Its unique blend of moisturizing, anti-aging, anti-oxidant, and pluming ingredients enhance the lips leaving a smoother, healthier appearance.  One swipe of colour provides hydration and prevents moisture loss ensuring fresh and flawless lips.  Lip Complex is a unique blend of moisturiazing, anti-aging, anti-oxidant, and pluming ingredients to boost the performance of the lip colour.  Offers Vitamins A and E to act as powerful anti-oxidants to soften, soothe, and condition lips for a plumper, smoothier, and healthier looking lip appearance.  Long-lasting coverage with a modern sheen.  Colour is refreshed everytime lips are pressed together.  Application is always fresh and flawless.
- Fresh Brown - warm bronze brown
- Raspberry Sorbet - berry rose shimmer
- Passion Fruit - light beige champagne

Creme Lip Colour - Laura Mercier Creme Lip Colour delivers ultra-rich colour in an irresistibly lightweight formula.  Its unique blend of moisturizing, anti-aging, anti-oxidant, and plumping ingredients enchance the lips leaving a smoother, healthier appearance.  One swipe of colour proivdes hydration and prevents moisture loss ensuring fresh and flawless lips. 
- Tea Rose - delicate pink nude

Nail Lacquer - Limited edition.  The ultra-smooth formula provides chip-resistant, fast-drying, and long-lasting colour.  Nail Lacquer does not contain formaldhyde, toluene, or dibutyl phthalate (DBP). 
- Cocoa Suede - chocolate brown
- Organza - beige with gold sparkle
- Nude Silk - taupe

Long Lash Mascara - Long Lash Mascara extends and perfectly separates the thinnest, shortest, hard-to-reach lashes by expertly scooping up and lengthening each lash while delivering just the right amount of product.  The perfectly engineered brush, designed to meet Laura's specifications, dramatically lengthens and defines lashes while enhancing the eyes.  An innovative stretch formula lengthens, separates, and curls each lash, making lashes appear longer in just two strokes.  Long-wearing, water-resistant, and smudge-proof.  Contains rich dark pigments to enhance lash colour for maximum drama.  Clump-free, fiber-free, paraden-free, and ophthamologist tested.  Suitable for contact lens wearers.
- Burgundy - deep burgundy

I love some of the eye makeup selections that are pictured with this collection, my focus this fall is picking up some new eye makeup to balance out all the lip products that I have bought over the spring and early summer.  I initially fell in love with the Suspense Eye Duet, however that was before I saw that the shades had a matte finish.  I will have to play with this product at the Sephora counter, many matte textured shadows have not worked well for me.  So the verdit is out  on this duo until I can play around with it more, I really like the shades but I don't want to buy it if I will never use it.  The Tightline Cake Eye Liner in the Ground Expresso shade will work very well for me this fall and winter, I don't have a deep rich brown eyeliner and this product will fill that void very well.

Many of the lip shades are too warm for me, the bronzes will not work for my skintones especially not in the fall when I lose all of my summer glow.  The Creme Lip Colour in Tea Rose is the shade that has me the most interested, this looks like a great my-lips-but-better look and will work with any natural or dramatic eye makeup look that I can come up with this fall.  This is my top pick of the collection, this shade will work so very well for me.  The Raspberry Sorbet Sheer Lip Colour is a lovely berry shimmer, it is not a must have for me but I would like to own it as it will be a great shade for fall. 

Two of the Nail Lacquer shades are on my shopping list too.  The Organza and Nude Silk shades are great neutrals and will be a break from my usual pale pink neutrals.  I like that this have a bit more pigment than many of the neutrals that I own and are great for the cooler weather months.

I like this collection however I was hoping to see a bit more eye makeup products and shades.  I was hoping for more eye shadows and perhaps a palette that would help create a deep chocolate smoky eye.  If shades like that were in this collection, then it would rank among the best of the season.  I buy a palette like that in a heartbeat but none of the eye shadows in this collection really jump out at me.  My favorite piece is the neutral pink lipstick, this is the only must have for me in the collection.

photo courtesy of Nordstrom

Laura Mercier Long Lash Mascara

You all may have noticed a slight lack of posts on mascaras over the past few months.  No I didn't stop loving mascara, in fact it is still one of my favorite beauty items and the one that I might be the most picky about the formula and the results.  I have talked on here about using items up and doing some spring cleaning in general and that philosophy extended all the way to my traincase.  When I was digging around for some product or another in the beginning of the year, I saw a pile of unused Clinique mascaras that I amassed through all of the Gifts with Purchase that I tend to qualify for every season at Macy*s.  Over the end of winter and spring, I have used up a few of these small mascaras (how many sets could I have qualified for to have that make tubes of Lash Doubling Mascara?!) and now I ahve moved onto trying out a different mascara. 

The mascara that I have been using for about a week now is the Laura Mercier Long Lash Mascara, the first mascara that I have ever used from the Laura Mercier company.  I received a large sample size of this mascara from the Sephora Beauty Insider program, I love when they have mascaras as the 100-Point Perk since the size is large enough for me to use it for a bit more than month and allows me to really try out the product before I buy the full size.  I am glad that I got to try this product out before I decided to buy it or not, since this mascara was not quite what I tend to look for in a formulation. 

The Long Lash Mascara was featured in Laura's first summer collection, Belle Nouveau.  I was initially really excited to try this product out when I first saw it in that fantastic color collection, even though the description reads more like that of a lengthening formula instead of the volume formulas that I hunt down.  From the Laura Mercier website, "Extend and precisely separate the thinnest, shortest, hard-to-reach lashes by expertly scooping and lengthening each lash while delivering the right amount of product.  Perfectly engineered brush, designed to meet Laura's specfications, dramtically lengthens and defines lashes while enhancing the eyes.  An innovative stretch formula lengthens, separates, and curls each lash, making lashes appear longer in just two strokes.  Long-wearing, water-resistant, and smudge-proof.  Contains rich dark pigments to enhance lash colour for maximum drama.  Clump-free, fiber-free, paraben-free, and ophthamologist-tested.  Suitable for contact lens wearers."  This formula is available in two shades, black and a bright navy blue.  I own this mascara in the Black shade. 

Long Lash is the perfect name for this mascara formula, it provides length and separation but does next to nothing to bulk up the lashes and build volume.  The brush is smaller than I am used to and is covered with small bristles that help to grab and hang onto each lash.  The first coat of this mascara does next to nothing for my lashes, it makes them slightly darker and longer.  A second coat is needed for any type of definition and to bring out the rich hue that this mascara is made to offer.  The Black shade is a medium black, I have had much deeper and richer blacks than this shade.  This mascara really separates lashes, this is its best aspect of the product.  This mascara does lengthen the lashes however the results are not unique and this is by far not the best lengthening mascara that is on the market.  I was very disappointed with the results that I got from this mascara.  This is a good formula for a conservative office setting in which dramatic lashes would be frowned upon.

My least favorite aspect of this mascara (besides all the comments above!) is that it smeared very easily in humid weather.  I took a brisk walk one night after dinner (warm and humid conditions) and by the time that I got home and looked in the mirror, I saw that the mascara had smeared all over my undereye area on one eye.  I know that this isn't a waterproof formula but I don't expect a mascara to smear with normal activity in humid weather.  This formula was very easy to remove with an eye makeup remover, one swipe for each eye got all of the product off without any issues.

I am glad that I was able to try this mascara without buying it because I would not buy this product again.  I am not a fan of lengthening mascaras in the first place and this one only performed average.  It separates each and every lash but only provide medium length.  The shade isn't deep or dramatic enough to compete with the mascaras that I prefer.  The smudge that I got after a 30 minute walk really annoyed me, I expect any high end mascara to perform better than this and be able to bond to the lashes better.  Laura Mercier does offer high volume mascara formulas so I will have to try one of those the next time I decide to purchase a mascara from this company.

photo courtesy of Laura Mercier

Laura Mercier Summer 2012 Collection - Summer Jewels

It looks like Laura Mercier has returned to their pattern of releasing two new collections for every season, this seemed to stop for a bit but I now see a second collection on the company's website.  This second summer collection is much smaller than the Belle Nouveau collection and is exclusive to the company's website.  The new collection is named Summer Jewels and I don't really consider this a collection of shades and products to make one "look" for the season.  This is a series of the best shimmering shades that Laura Mercier has to offer,  one or two of these shades would work very well to change up your existing makeup range or to take a day makeup look easily into the night.  I must say that I am excited to see many of these products together in the same collection, I have seen many of these pieces alone in magazines and havew been interested in learning more about many of them.

Summer Jewels consists of five products; there are products for eyes, lips, and face so this collection gives lots of ways to add a bit of shimmer into your look.  I mostly use shimmer on my eyes and lips so I don't know that I would be likely to buy the shimmer powder for the face but I will be picking up some of the other products from this collection.  "Bold.  Glamorous.  Radiant.  It's the ultimate summer sparkle - an exclusive collection of shimmering new shades that can accessorize any look.  This luminous collection of true silvers, bare pinks, and bold brights gives you a radiant, sultry look, perfect for summer sizzle."
Here is the second of the Laura Mercier summer offerings...

Baked Eye Colour - An innovative wet/dry Eye Colour formula featuring Baked technology in beautiful shades that last all day.  This smudge-resistant, lightweight eye colour gently smoothes onto the lid for even application.  Ultra blendable and versatile, apply dry with the All Over Eye Colour Brush for an even wash of colour or wet with the Creme Eye Colour Brush for a more vibrant effect. 
- Rubellite - fushcia
- Silver - deep ice silver

Caviar Stick Eye Colour - Inspired by Laura Mercier's cult classic Caviar Eye Liner, Caviar Eye Stick Colour offers a new technique to enhance the smoky eye look.  In a range of eight beautiful shades, this creamy formula provides endless options for a flawless smoky eye.  Each convenient stick is long-wearing, transfer- and crease-resistant.  The colour glides onto lids and blends easily with a rich colour payoff.
- Sterling - bright icy silver

Creme Lip Colour - Ultra-rich colour in an irresistibly lightweight formula.  This unique blend of moisturizing, anti-aging, anti-oxidant, and plumping ingredients enhances the lips leaving a smoother, healthier appearance.  One swipe of colour provides hydration and prevents moisture loss ensuring fresh and flawless lips.
- Rose Quartz - soft creamy pink

Lip Glace - A high shine, perfectly pigmented lip gloss with rich, long-lasting colour and brilliant shine that creates the appearance of fuller lips.  Any skin tone is virtually enhanced by creating a subtle contrast in texture.  Contains the Laura Mercier Lip Complex which hydrates and protects lips, leaving a wonderfully smooth surface.  Lip Complex is a unique blend of moisturizing, anti-aging, anti-oxidant, and plumping ingredients to boost the performance of the Lip Glace.  Non-sticky gloss formula plumps and conditions lips.  Lays down evenly without feathering or bleeding.  Adds a glamourous touch without looking too heavy.  Available in a variety of coverages (sheer, medium, and full) and finishes (shine, sheen, and shimmer).
- Bare Pink - light pink

Shimmer Bloc - A unique baked formula that applies effortlessly while brightening the eyes, cheeks, and body with a hint of natural colour and light.  Contains light-reflecting properties that blend together to give skin a healthy all-over glow.  Modern wearable pearl leaves the skin gleaming without being too frosty or metallic.  Layer over Bronzing Gel or Tinted Moisturizer for a natural sheen.
- Pink Tourmaline - shimmery ice pink

I loved the bright pink Baked Eye Colour, this is a very different shade for me but this is the one product that I really want from this collection.  I have heard a lot of great reviews of the Baked Eye colour formula and I haven't gotten a chance to try it yet, I have been on a MAC and NARS buying spree and need to branch out a bit I guess.  I also really love the Sterling shade in the Caviar Eye Stick, this shimmering silver will work this whole summer against a tan and then I will use it in fall and winter for a foiled eye look.  Lastly, I want the Rose Quartz Lipstick shade, this is a brighter pink than the description suggests and I have been all over bright pinks this whole spring and summer.

The Shimmer Bloc is the product that I am undecided on, I would have to see how shimmery the finish actually is and if I would wear the product on my eyes since I wouldn't really that much shimmer on my face.
I like this little collection, it helps me to see some of the best shimmer products in the Laura Mercier line and the shades that this company would recommend against a great tan.  I am working on creating a pink and silver look for the summer months, I would be wearing this look at night though, I think that it might be too much during the daylight hours.

photo courtesy of Laura Mercier

Laura Mercier Summer 2012 Collection - Belle Nouveau

The colorful eye trend of the spring season is showing no signs of going away anytime soon so I will continue to shop for bright purple eye makeup and lilac highlighters to match.  This look will work very well when I have my self-tanned skin, I will start the tanning the week before Memorial Day.  This time is coming faster than I thought that it would since that is in about two weeks.  At this point, I need to start making some big decisions about what products are going to be my major purchases for the summer season.  I am focused only on bronzers and few new shadow shades at the moment so that I can jump start my summer look and fill in some holes in my current shade selection.

Belle Nouveau is the newest summer collection from Laura Mercier, I believe that this translates from the French into "new beauty" and this looks like a collection of new, fun products for the season.  The Laura Mercier website didn't have any collection description up so I found the description on the Nordstrom website instead.  "This poetic embrace of sugary happy tones in sheer textures sets the mood - soft but daring, playful yet romantic."  We have looked at a range of looks so far this season, from deep jewel tones that would be more appropriate in the fall to superbright shades that will be hard to pull off in many circumstances.  But I feel like we have had very few collections that just celebrate all the fun that is to be had during the summer months, this collection really fills that gap and I love this concept.

Here is the new collection from Laura Mercier!

Sheer Creme Eye Colour - Laura Sheer Creme Eye Colour adds a touch of colour to the eyelids.  Sheer lightweight formula applies smoothly and evenly and provides a soft cloud of colour.  Very blendable formula, provides sheer to moderate coverage.  Long wearing (up to 8 hours).  Colour stays true and doesn't fade all day.  Velvety, soft finish.
- Aqua Pastel - pale teal
- Gray Pastel - cool light gray
- Mauve Pastel - pale lavender

Caviar Stick Eye Colour - Inspired by Laura Mercier's cult classic Caviar Eye Liner, Caviar Stick Eye Colour offers a new technique to enhance the classic smoky eye look.  In a range of eight beautiful shades, this creamy formula provides endless options for a flawless smoky eye.  Each convenient stick is long-wearing, transfer- and crease-resistant.  The colour glides onto lids and blends easily with a rich colour payoff.
- Turquoise - blue green with shimmer

Long Lash Mascara - Laura Mercier Long Lash Mascara extends and precisely separates the thinnest, shortest, hard-to-reach lashes by expertly scooping up and lengthening each lash while delivering the right amount of product.  Perfectly engineered brush, designed to meet Laura's specifications, dramatically lengthens and defines lashes while enhancing the eyes.  An innovative stretch formula lengthens, separates, and curls each lash making lashes appear longer in just two strokes.  Long-wearing, water-resistant, and smudge-proof.  Contains rich, dark pigments to enhance lash colour for maximum drama.  Clump-free, fiber-free, paraben-free, and ophthamologist tested.  Suitable for contact lens wearers.
- Bleu - true cobalt

Creme Lip Print - Limited edition.  Laura Mercier Creme Lip Print pampers lips with a creamy texture, dressing them with smooth colour and a velvety matte finish.  Longwearing formula is soft to the touch and comfortable to wear.  Sophisticated, luxurious texture provides smooth colour.  Creamy formula applies smoothly on lips.  Provides a velvety matte finish.  Non-greasy.
- Nude Beige - bronze matte
- Nude Coral - red orange matte
- Nude Pink - light pink matte
Lip Glace - Laura Mercier Lip Glace is a high-shine, perfectly pigmented lip gloss with rich, long-lasting colour and brilliant shine that creates the appearance of fuller lips.  Any skin tone is virtually enchanced by creating a subtle contrast in texture.  Contains the Laura Mercier Lip Complex which hydrates and protects lips, leaving a wonderfully smooth surface.  Lip Complex is a unique blend of moisturizing, anti-aging, anti-oxidant and plumping ingredients to boost the performance of the Lip Glace.  Non-sticky gloss formula plumps and conditions lips.  Lays down evenly without feathering or bleeding.  Adds a glamourous touch without looking too heavy.  Available in a variety of coverages (sheer, medium, and full) and finishes (shine, sheen, and shimmer).
- Camellia - fuchsia pink
- Orange Tulip - light orange
- Lotus Blossom - light pink

Sheer Creme Colour - New.  Limited edition.  Laura's Sheer Creme Colour is a creme face colour that provides a soft veil of colour for a "bonne mime" (healthy glow) effect.  Ultra-sheer, blendable formula that provides a healthy glow to skin.  Smooth formula provides a soft veil of colour for face and cheek.  Provides an immediate healthy looking radiance.  Skin looks soft and sun-kissed.  Longwearing formula (8 hours); wears all day.  Non-drying, non-greasy.  Fragrance-free; dermatologically tested; suitable for all skin types, even sensitive.
- Copper Gold Veil - bronze with shimmer

Nail Lacquer - New.  Limited edition.  The ultra-smooth formula provides chip-resistant, fast-drying, and long-lasting color.  Nail Lacquer does not contain formaldhyde, toulene, or dibutyl phthalate (DBP). 
- Lavender Cloud - pale violet

Body Bronzing Makeup - Laura Mercier Body Bronzing Makeup instantly reveals healthy, radiant bronzed skin without long-term commitment.  Satiny smooth formula with light reflective particles helps disguise imperfections.  Adds a subtle, all-over sheen.  Lightly scented with the Almond Coconut Milk.  Streak-free, transfer-resistant and easily washes off when ready.  Available for a limited time only.

Creme Eye Detail Brush - Laura Mercier Creme Eye Detail Brush is a high quality synthetic brush designed for precise application of Creme Eye Colour products.  Specifically designed to allow for intricate eye detail.  Pointed tip allows for absolute precision.  The Creme Eye Detail Brush is precise enough to highlight specific parts of the lid.  Synthetic fibers allow for flattening of bristles in order to have perfect control of creme colour.

Lip Colour Brush - Laura Mercier Lip Colour Brush - Pull Apart is a natural brush perfectly shaped for precisely lining the lip line.  Sculpted to give perfect control.  Finely rounded tip and tapered sides allows for precise lining of the lip line.  Pure, top quality sable provides ideal texture and firmness for application of Lip Colour or Lip Glace.

Is it bad that the first thing that I notice in this collection is the Nail Lacquer shade?  I have never tried any polishes from this company and I love this lilac shade for the spring and summer.  My nail polish collection is now officially too big to fit well into my huge nail polish bag and the last thin that I should be doing is adding more but I plan to figure out how to fit this one last polish into the bag.  The next item that I really want is the Creme Eye Colours in the gray and lilac shades, these look to be the hero product of the collection and will be instrumental in helping create a lilac version of the look on the model for the collection.  To round out my shopping list on this collection, the lip products are calling my name.  I love the Creme Lip Print in Nude Pink, this is a great neutral shade that I am hoping to work into my everyday look.  The Lip Glace shade Camellia will be a great bright lip shade for the summer and will work great for the night time.  The Lotus Blossom Lip Glace is my last pick from the collection, I love this light pink shade and I am seeing this one being another great neutral.

This collection falls into my top five for this summer, I love this collection and I want to buy so many pieces from it!

photo courtesy of Laura Mercier

Laura Mercier Spring 2012 Collection - Lingerie Collection

When I first saw the name of this collection on the Laura Mercier website, I wasn't sure if this was the actual spring collection or if this was a series of shades that were put together to create a romantic Valentine's Day look.  It is named the Lingerie collection so it really could have gone either way, it wasn't until I saw in a product description that this actually is the spring collection.  The Lingerie Collection contains a full range of products that look to create a soft pretty spring face.  Like many other collections from this company, the collection starts out with a large palette and all of the rest of the product revolve around creating looks with the palette.  My favorite piece of the collections usually are her palettes and this one looks like it will be another hit (based on first glance on the website).
We will start with the palette and then look at the rest of the collection.  Then we can see how the palette is the center of the collection and how the rest of the products and shades are there to support the central piece.

The Lingerie Collection from Laura Mercier...

Eye and Cheek Palette - Limited edition.  Featured in  Spring's Lingerie Collection, the Eye and Cheek Palette includes six shades for eyes and two for cheeks to give skin soft kisses of colour.  6 Eye Colours: Luster Eye Colour in Buff Pearl (pale champagne shimmer) and African Violet (lavender shimmer), Sateen Eye Colour in Tawny Apricot (medium cool beige satin), Matte Eye Colour in Rich Cocoa (deep matte brown), Pale Pink (matte pale pink), and Black Plum (matte deep cool plum).  2 Second Colours in Rose Desire (deep rose pink) and Fresh Peach (warm medium peach).  All shades, except African Violet and Black Plum, are exclusive to this palette.

Lip Shine - Laura Mercier Lip Shine adds a touch of polish to lips with a lightweight, pearlscent gloss finish.  Shea Butter and Vitamin E moisturize lips without being too heavy or greasy.  Emollient, blendable texture.  Lightweight, non-tacky formula.  Delicate colour blends easily leaving a polished finish.
- Naked Apricot - soft peach with sparkle
- Tempting Coral - bright coral with golden sparkle

Sheer Lip Colour - Laura Mercier Lip Colour - Sheer is a hydrating, anti-aging, plumping, and conditioning lip colour that glides on smoothly and evenly delivering a sheer wash of colour with a semi-matte finish.  Infused with Laura Mercier Lip Complex, Lip Colour - Sheer glides on smoothly and evenly to deliver a soft hint of colour with one swipe.  Anti-feathering and anti-bleeding.  Hydrating and anti-aging ingredients offer protection.  Long-lasting formula plumps and conditions lips for an enhanced pout.
- Kissed Lips - fresh coral pink

Creme Cheek Colour - Laura Mercier Creme Cheek Colour is a long-lasting, natural cheek colour formulated to provide translucent, buildable coverage for a soft, velvety finish.  Provides a simple and quick way to create naturally flushed-looking cheeks.  Silky powder allows ample play time before the product dries.  Softly illuminates skin for a healthy complexion.  Use the Creme Cheek Colour Blush to apply.
- Innocent Peach - healthy apricot pink

Tightline Cake Eye Liner - Laura Mercier Tightline Cake Eye Liner is an easy-to-use, cake eye liner that delivers long-lasting colour payoff that doesn't fade throughout the day for flawlessly defined eyes.  Now available in 6 smudge and transfer-resistant, colour true shades, the formula glides on the lash line smoothly and stays all day long.  A makeup artist's secret, with Tightline Cake Eye Liner with the Flat Eye Liner Brush to perfect Laura's "tightline" technique.  Perfect for on the go, pop out your favorite shade from its compact and place it in a 3 or 6-well Custom Compact for a customized colour palette.  All Custom Compacts sold separately.
- Orchid Shimmer - shimmering black violet

Long Lash Mascara - Laura Mercier Long Lash Mascara extends and precisely separates the thinnest, shortest, hard-to-reach lashes by expertly scooping up and lengthening each lash while delivering the right amount of product.  For long defined lashes: Perfectly engineered brush, designed to meet Laura specifications, dramatically lengthens and defines lashes while enhancing the eyes.  An innovative stretch formula lengthens, separates, and curls each lash making lashes appear longer in just two strokes.  Long-wearing, water-resistant, and smudge-proof.  Contains rich dark pigments to enhance lash colour for maximum drama.  Clump-free, fiber-free, paraben-free, and ophthamologist tested.
- Black - black

Eye Basics - Laura Mercier Eye Basics creates the perfect canvas for eyes for camoflaging eye imperfections and enhancing the durability of eye makeup.  Skin friendly ingredients enhance the delicate skin on the eye lids.  Botanicals soothe distressed lids.  Vitamins A, C, and E provide anti-oxidant protection.  Sheer, creamy texture blends easily and smoothly, leaving a long-lasting semi-matte finish.  Natural clay prevents creasing.  Water-resistant.  Eyes are primed with this highly versatile product.  Use as a primer or alone to add a little color to your eyes.  Available in a wide range of shades to suit all skintones.

Eye Colour Brush - Laura Mercier Eye Colour Brush is a soft 100% natural brush perfectly sized to apply Laura Mercier "cashmere" eye colour to the eyelid and brow bone.  Flat bristles with tapered, oval tip.  Gently blends edges.

Cheek Colour Brush - Laura Mercier Cheek Colour Brush is a natural-haired brush sized to perfectly shape the cheek bone.  Medium sculpted brush head.  Squirrel hair provides softness in application and goat hair offers durability.  Best used with Laura Mercier Second Skin Cheek Colour.

Just as I thought that I would...I love that palette and I will get so much use from it this spring.  With some of the deeper eye shadow shades in here, I can also see myself getting some use from this palette next fall.  This palette is my favorite piece of the collection and I can't wait to get to Sephora and see it for myself.  I might not be able to get the warm peach blush hue to work for me right now but it might work better when I have a bit of color this summer.  I will have to try that out and see how it will factor in my purchase decision.

The Sheer Lip Colour in the pink coral hue is really pretty and this might be a bright coral that I can really pull off, I might prefer this one in the summer with a bit of tan (the coral might be too warm against my winter pale skin) and I can see this being a reason for me to wear lipstick all summer long (I mostly wear tinted glosses in the summer and lipstick the rest of the year).  I like the concept of the Lip Shine but I don't like either shade that was released with this collection, I will keep an eye on the product over the next few seasons and see what other shades get released in it.  The last piece that I really want from the collection is the Tightline Cake Eye Liner in Orchid Shimmer, I will use this black with purple shimmer shade in the spring and then again in the fall and winter, something is telling me that Laura Mercier released this shade with either their holiday or fall collections...

The palette and the eye liner are my biggest interests from this collection, after looking at the palette for the first time I was really hoping that there would be more pink shades in this collection.  When I first looked at the palette, some of the shades appeared cooler than they really were when I was looking over the descriptions, I would have loved a palette full of pinks, lavenders, and roses...

photo courtesy of Laura Mercier