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Looking to discover new brands, want smaller versions of your favorite products or need to give a great gift? We are loving these new, limited-edition Sephora Favorites Boxed Kits. With 10 kits to choose from, each comes packed with best-selling goodies in deluxe sample sizes-- and all for under $40 a box.

We recommend you try them all, but the following kits are perfect for Summer:

 

 

Sephora Favorites Splashstash Waterproof Deluxe Sampler, $36. If you have any plans to hit the beach, pool or water park, this collection of 7 of Sephora's most wanted waterproof eye essentials will keep you looking fab-- bring on the H2O!

Set includes: 0.1 oz Tarte Lights Camera Splashes, 0.169 oz Too Faced Mini Lash Injection, 0.1 oz MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua Smoky Lash, 0.85 oz MAKE UP FOR EVER Sens'Eyes Makeup Remover, 0.025 oz MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua Eyes, 0.03 oz Urban Decay 24/7 Pencil in Electric and 0.26 oz Urban Decay Big Fatty Waterproof Mascara

 

 

Sephora Favorites The Fix-It Kit Skincare Deluxe Sampler, $40. Flawless skin is always in, and this set of 6 skin-perfecting secret weapons will bring your skin a more smooth, firm, and soft appearance.

Set includes: 0.19 oz Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Eye Mask, 0.5 oz Perricone MD Ceramic Skin Smoother, 0.02 oz Cosmedicine Wrinkle Write Off, 0.24 oz Kinerase Extreme Eye Lift, 0.253 oz Dr. Brandt Pores No More and 1.06 oz Clarins High Definition Body Lift

 

 

Sephora Favorites Eau Girl Fragrance Deluxe Sampler, $40. Who says bigger is better? We find this set of 8 petite scents to be just the right size to take along on weekend get-aways, stashing in your desk drawer and even your favorite tote or clutch.

Set includes: 0.17 oz Dior Miss Dior Cherie Eau de Parfum, 0.17 oz Bvlgari Omnia Green Jade Eau de Toilette, 0.17 oz Versace Bright Crystal Eau de Toilette, 0.13 oz Vera Wang Princess Eau de Toilette, 0.3 oz Prada Infusion d'Iris Eau de Parfum, 0.13 oz Clean Eau de Parfum, 0.24 oz Ralph Lauren Ralph Eau de Toilette, 0.13 oz Givenchy Very Irresistible Givenchy Eau de Toilette

 

 

Sephora Favorites Skin Saviors Moisturizers Deluxe Sampler, $24 Don't let your skin dry out! Give it a much-needed drink with some of the most popular body moisturizers to nourish, protect, and hydrate.

Set includes: 1.69 oz Korres Guava Body Butter, 1 oz Philosophy When Hope Is Not Enough Body Lotion, 2.03 oz Fresh Sugar Lemon Body Lotion, 1.7 oz Bliss Blood Orange + White Pepper Body Butter and 2 oz Murad Body Firming Cream

For us, Summer is all about weekends at the beach, getting together with friends, relaxing at the park, and simply scaling back a tight everyday schedule. Summer also brings in the heat, and you need products that will help you survive it. We've put together a list of beauty essentials, sure to keep you cool and looking your best.

 

 

 

Essence of Beauty Body Mist in Blue Ocean

With its blend of light scents-- that remind us of cool ocean waves and fresh air-- this body mist will keep you feeling like you're at the shore, even if you are still sitting at your desk. $5.99, cvs.com

 

 

 

 

 

Revlon Extra Life No Chip Top Coat

Whether we're playing in the sand, swimming in the pool or washing dishes, we use this essential, high-gloss top coat to keep our brightly-colored manicures in tip top shape for up to two weeks. $5.49, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

St. Ives Cellulite Shield Gel Creme

Gym visits are necessary for our overall health, but spending time outdoors is so much more fun in the Summer. To help us look our best, we recruited this powerful and hydrating creme to fight cellulite and leave our skin feeling smooth and looking more even-toned. This formula absorbs fast and includes ingredients like caffeine and citrus extracts work to energize, rejuvenate and stimulate circulation in the skin. $7.99, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

Nivea Lip Care A Kiss Of Protection, SPF 30

This long-lasting lip balm protects lips from damaging UV rays, prevents your pout from drying out and leaves them feeling silky smooth thanks to ingredients like Jojoba oil and Shea butter. $2.49, drugstore.com 

 

 

 

Colgate Wisp

We love this pocket-sized disposable toothbrush. It fits in our purse, beach bag or glove compartment, and is perfect for keeping our breath fresh and teeth clean on-the-go, no matter where we go. Sugar-free. $2.59, cvs.com

 

 

 

 

L'Oreal EverPure UV Protect Spray

We admit, we've been stretching time between our haircolor appointments these days, but we couldn't do it without a little help. A few sprays of this on our tresses before we finish our style not only adds moisture to our already dehydrated hair, but protects it from UV rays, thus helping our color look vibrant and healthy longer. $8.99, drugstore.com

Foundations are the best product for creating a more even, flawless complexion. With so many formulations on the market these days, we care most about finding the ones that feel lightweight but give us the coverage we desire. Now that we're moving into the warm-weather months, these requirements also need to be teamed up with long-lasting finishes that won't melt away. The following picks are some of our favorites, and for you recessionistas, all cost less than $40.

 

 

 

Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup SPF 10 provides a natural-looking, semi-matte finish on normal/combination to oily skin and stays fresh-looking for up to 15 hours. While it hides every flaw, it feels amazingly light and doesn't smudge or rub off on our clothes. Oil-free, fragrance-free. $33.50, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

 

 

CoverGirl Smoothers AquaSmooth Cream Foundation is a truly affordable foundation perfect for those with a more dry skintype. We love that this goes on smooth, is easy to apply and gives flawless coverage without a heavy makeup feeling. Special light-reflecting pigments help minimize the appearance of fine lines and imperfections so you can feel confidant in your own skin. $10.11, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation is great to apply especially when we're on-the go. This foundation is designed to be used dry, and the fine-milled powders and pigments create a matte, velvety texture that leaves skin looking smooth and fresh. Apply with a brush, powder or sponge. $26, macys.com

 

 

 

Revlon Age Defying Makeup SPF 15 W/Botafirm for Dry Skin works well for mature skin types and provides excellent coverage without looking fake. This foundation is specially designed to help remove fine lines and moisturize the skin all day long while visibly softening facial features for a glowing, youthful look. Also available in a normal/combination skin formula. $13.99, drugstore.com

  

 

 

Shiseido The Makeup Fluid Foundation provides skin with a light, refreshing texture and a translucent matte finish. Fabulous for all skintypes, The Makeup moisturizes skin and minimizes flaws, but still offers varied coverage, from light to full, without heaviness. $37.50, macys.com

Now that the heat is rising, more trips to the pool or beach will be occurring. That doesn't mean you have to sacrifice looking your best. You should, however, consider investing in a few water-resistant products to prevent makeup meltdown. Then, should you choose to splash around, you'll know your makeup isn't running down your face. Here is an assortment of amazing products that will stay in place all day and keep you looking gorgeous-- wet or dry.

 

 

For face:

 

 

Clinique Work-Out Makeup will keep your skin looking flawless even while you work you way through those high-impact kickboxing classes. This long-wearing liquid makeup stands up well through heat, humidity and much needed dips in the pool. $20.50, clinique.com

 

 

 

 

Becca Beach Tint is a water-resistant lip and cheek stain that wears beautifully all day. The blendable, non-greasy formula suits all skin types, dries to a perfect, streak-free finish, and each shade is scented in its synonymous name: Watermelon, Peach and Raspberry. $25, dermstore.com

 

 

 

 

Benefit She Laq will turn your non-waterproof mascara, eye shadows, and liners into splash-resistant wonders because of its "magic" sealing ability. Trust us, use this and your makeup will stay put. Comes with a complete set of mini brushes. $30, benefitcosmetics.com

 

 

 

For eyes and lashes:

 

 

Max Factor 2000 Calorie Aqua Lash Mascara provides all the lash-building properties we have loved for years, but in a water-proof version. The gel-based formula coats lashes in rich color that dries to keep moisture out, but without drying our lashes out. $5.49, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

Make Up Forever Pearly Waterproof Eyeshadow Pencil is specially formulated to deliver rich, pigmented, long-lasting color that can withstand any damp condition. We love that we can also use these to line our peepers for an ultra bright-eyed look. $18, sephora.com

 

 

 

For lips:

 

 

Philosophy The Super Natural Lip Pencil gives lips a natural, your-lips-but-better hue and really lasts. We love that we can define and add subtle color to our lips and coat it with our favorite sheer gloss for an effortless lip look. $12.50, beauty.com

 

 

Summer is the perfect time to give yourself a more tan, glowing complexion, but getting too much sun isn't the healthiest. For this reason, we have compiled a list of the best self-tanners for 2009 that will help you get the bronze look you desire without the risk of damaging your skin.

Best Overall Application

Clarins Delicious Self-Tanning Cream- We love this cream because it's easy to use and formulated with aloe vera to moisturize and cocoa beans to help prevent premature aging. Its golden color guarantees you don't miss a spot, and because it comes in a tub rather than a spray can, you won't be cleaning up spots all over your bathroom after applying. $42, nordstrom.com

 

 

Best for Face

Jergens Natural Glow Daily Facial Moisturizer- For an everyday glow and the protection of SPF 20, this oil-free moisturizing facial self-tanner delivers the perfect amount of natural-looking color. It absorbs quickly and wears well under makeup. $7.49, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

 

Best For Travel

 

L'Oreal Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Towelettes are packaged in individual wrappers, making them perfect for travel. One towelette is enough to cover our entire body, and the result is a natural-looking tan-- no orange in sight. We found it best to apply in a circular motion for a streak-free finish. The smell isn't our favorite, but subsides after a day. $8.99 for 6, drugstore.com

 

 

 

Most Dependable

 

Neutrogena Sun Fresh Foam should be in your sunless tanning arsenal if it isn't already. Cherished by its loyal users for years, this citrus-smelling foam goes on clear, develops a golden glow in a few hours and dries quickly once applied. $9.99, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

Best Import

 

Lancaster Easy Bronze Milky Spray SPF 6- As the authority in the field of prestige sun-care products in Europe's, we now have access to these best sellers. Easy Bronze Milky Spray can be applied at any angle, even upside-down, making it very user-friendly. The result is a streak-free golden glow that lasts for days. $27, spalook.com

 

 

 

 

 

Best For Customization

 

Aveeno Continuous Radiance Moisturizing Lotion- The innovative, dual-chambered package has a dial design that allows the user to choose the depth of color to be applied and can be readjusted until the desired shade of bronze is met. $12.99, target.com

 

 

 

 

Best Fool-Proof Kit

 

Mystic Tan Perfect Tan Kit for Face ensures the perfect tan with its 3-step system. Gone are the days of over-application thanks to the uber-genius base that increases color depth and saturation in all the right places. $54, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

 

Best Multi-Purpose Formula 

 

Hourglass Solar Tan Self-Tanning Primer is just what we gals-on-the-go love. A primer and self-tanner in one, this glow-giving product leaves skin moisturized and prepped for your foundation. Subtle color develops over five days for a more radiant, natural look. $60, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

Best Smelling Formula 

 

Bliss A Tan For All Seasons- A user favorite, this antioxidant-rich formula provides a gradual, believable color without the typical "self tanner stink" thanks citrus-scented odor-repelling actives that mask the smell of DHA. $36, blissworld.com

 

 

 

 

 

Fastest Dark Tan 

 

Bare Escentuals Faux Tan- This super-hydrating formula dries quickly and delivers instant color ensuring you won't miss a spot. Maximum color develops in a few hours and lasts for up to a week. We recommend wearing gloves to apply this one, as the formula is highly tinted. $22, bareescentuals.com

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With the weather heating up, we feel it's essential to have the best protection possible. There is nothing worse than catching a whiff of your own underarm umm...odor, and having to worry throughout the day whether or not others smell it, too (so embarrassing!). 

The following is a list of products we have tried and tested for you, and trust us, they really work.

 

 

 

Mitchum for Women Clear Gel Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant is certainly the best of the best. We were most impressed with how effective it is. The alcohol-free formula won't sting your underarms, the clear finish ensures you won't leave any trace on your clothes and of course, you can be confident all day. $4.99, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

Kiehl's Superbly Efficient Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant comes in a lotion form, but never left us feeling sticky. This isn't irritating, leaves our skin feeling smooth, and keeps us dry and smelling fresh all day long. Our biggest tip is to be sure to let it dry completely before getting dressed, and once it does, it stays put. $11.50, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

 

 

Degree Woman Clinical Protection Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant is applied at night to give the best odor and wetness fighting protection. We love this, especially when we have early morning workouts planned-- no need for our groggy selves to remember to do anything but get dressed. $6.99, drugstore.com

 

 

 

Secret Flawless Invisible Solid provides us with a feminine scent that that goes on light and softens our skin, thanks to Olay conditioners, but works to keep the wetness at bay. We love that this too goes on clear, and leaves us feeling confident enough to brave the hottest weather. $5.49, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

 

Adidas Women Cotton Tech Aluminium Free Deodorant is amazing if you are desiring an aluminum-free anti-perspirant/deodorant that actually works. We found this product kept us dry and odor free all day, has a fresh, clean scent and appealed to our health-conscious side. $3.75, amazon.com

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Are you a yoga-lover, the life of the party or the full time Mom constantly chasing after your kids? Find out which of the fun, fearless females from awomansworld.com that you are most like with their online personality quiz. Once you find out whether you're an Anna, Cheryl, Maya or Nikki, we'll show you how to create the best spring beauty look for your personality and lifestyle.

ANNA is a journalist who loves yoga, and her dream is to own her own yoga studio. She's currently dating a contractor and always seems to have it together. Anna's low-key personality cries out for an easy, natural-looking routine that can keep up with her active life. Her look for spring is fresh and subtle with just a hint of a glow. See Anna's spring look here

MAYA is happily married to a doting husband (lucky girl!) and owns a small fashion boutique. Her personal style combines designer classics with cutting edge trends. Considered the life of the party, she always looks impeccable thanks to regular spa, salon and gym appointments. When it comes to beauty, Maya isn't afraid to experiment a little with trendy colors (age-appropriate of course) and new formulations. See Maya's spring look here

CHERYL is a full-time mom married to a workaholic. Putting everyone else's happiness first, her days consist of chasing after the kids and dragging herself to the gym once n a while. Cheryl needs a no-fuss 5-minute beauty look that works for everything from shopping to soccer games. On those rare occasions where she has a few minutes for herself, a few pampering products to help relax and renew are in order. See Cheryl's spring look here

NIKKI is a spontaneous free spirit who enjoys anything creative she can do with her hands like painting and sculpting. The eternal optimist, Nikki enjoys aerobics, shopping and dancing all night long. Her spring look is fun, playful and just a bit quirky. SPF coverage is a must for her fair skin. See Nikki's spring look here

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May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and if you are into skincare as much as we are, you make protecting your skin priority #1. Excessive exposure to the sun is one of the main reasons for premature aging, but it is also the cause of more than 90% of skin cancer cases. The good news is that skin cancer is one of the more preventable types of cancer, so take a look at our top sun-protecting product picks (and one to help soothe skin after a day in the sun) that will keep you healthy and protected.

 

 

 

Peter Thomas Roth Instant Mineral Powder SPF 45

We can't help but get behind anything that makes protecting our skin simple and easy on-the-go. This transparent mineral powder, housed with a convenient brush applicator, works immediately to block out the sun's harmful rays. It leaves our our faces shine-free and protected from sunburn and skin damage, no matter where we go. $30, sephora.com

 

 

   

 

 

 

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist SPF 70

This spray-on sunscreen is easy to use and very kid friendly. We find it much easier to spray the kids down, rather than fuss with a lotion-style formula. They think it's fun, too. The mist dries quickly, is waterproof, sweat-proof and even sprays upside down. $9.99, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Clinique Sun SPF 30 Face Cream

This amazing face cream from Clinique offers sun protection that dries to a matte finish. If you are prone to breakouts, there's no need to stress because this is oil-free and even sensitive skin friendly. $17.50, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

Murad Waterproof Sunblock SPF 30

This is one of our favorite sunscreens. Not only does it deliver maximum protection for our skin, but it smells fabulous (no "sunscreen" smell), fights off free-radicals, never leaves our skin super shiny (like other sunscreens sometimes do), and doesn't clog our pores. Thank you Dr. Murad... $30, sephora.com

 

 

 

Oscar Blandi Sun-Shield Spray

Hair also needs to be protected from the sun, especially if it is color treated. Prevent color fade, or use as a styling aid, with this limited-edition spray, and let the "invisible shield" block out harmful UV rays. Formulated with Pro Vitamin B5 to strengthen, rich in vitamins A, D, and E to protect and avocado and jojoba oils to nourish, moisturize and condition hair. $20, sephora.com

 

 

 

Blistex Lip Tone SPF 15

Your lips are probably one area of your face you forget to protect, and wearing gloss or lipstick alone won't give them protection unless it itself contains an SPF. Run this over your lips before applying you favorite lip color and you'll not only create an even base for it to stick to, but you'll also give no reason for the sun to cause any damage to your precious pout. $1.99, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

Korres Yoghurt Cooling Gel

Ideal after any day out in the sun, this ultra-cooling cream gel will provide its user with long-lasting freshness and comfort for the face and body. Yogurt, a natural source of lactose, proteins, and vitamins, hydrates the skin, instantly relieving excessive heat and stinging. Soothes sensitive skin too. $23.50, nordstrom.com

Last week, Cosmetic Executive Women, Inc. (CEW) held their annual award ceremony to honor the best in beauty, everything from moisturizer to mascara, and we were on the edge of our seats to find out what products would make the cut. These are our picks of products from the list of winners that we think you should consider adding to your beauty bag now.

 

 

Avon Anew Clinical Professional Stretch Mark Smoother This break-through formula works to visibly reduce the appearance of stretch marks, as well as help prevent new ones from forming. The formulation is designed to help boost elastin and stimulate collagen; glycolic acid helps smooth the texture and even the tone and color of existing stretch marks. Through testing, over 90% of women show improvement in length, depth and visibility of stretch marks in eight weeks-- we need to get this. $19.99, amazon.com

 

 

 

 

Fresh Fig Apricot Bath and Shower GelThis shower gel allows us to have a pampering experience while we get clean. The skin-loving formula nourishes with a blend of vitamins C & E, uses meadowfoam and evening primrose oils for hydration, and shea butter and borage seed oil for moisture. The luxurious scent of Turkish apricot, peach, fig and jasmine, doesn't disappoint when it comes to the smell. $28, sephora.com 

 

 

 

Clinique Even Better Skin Tone Corrector If you are like us, desiring an even skintone is one of your biggest skin care issues.lightweight, layerable serum helps to create a noticeably even and clear complexion. Within four to six weeks, it measurably and visibly corrects, clarifies and evens skin tone. Over time, it even helps prevent new dark spots from forming. Get this for yourself and a friend. $39.50, clinique.com

 

 

 

 

Estee Lauder Time Zone Line and Wrinkle Reducing Moisturizer SPF 15 contains an industry first called Tri-Hyaluronic Acid Complex. This unique blend of three Hyaluronic Acid technologies work at multiple levels in the skin to help replenish, rebuild and sustain the ideal moist environment for more lineless, youthful looking skin. For us, anything that will hold off the signs of aging a little bit longer will always get a vote form us. $58, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

CoverGirl Simply Ageless Foundation is a first-of-its-kind anti-aging makeup that won't settle into fine lines or wrinkles, but rather will leave skin with an amazing finish. With Olay Regenerist serum in the formula, we can't help but love the idea of this multi-tasking makeup. The lightweight formula goes on sheer but is easily buildable for fuller coverage and contains SPF 22. $13.99, drugstore.com

 

 

 

Aveeno Continuous Protection Sunblock Spray SPF 70 Wearing sunscreen everyday is important and this award-winner is the best at making application simple. Add to that it's ability to deliver broad and photostable UVA/UVB protection, and you've got the best sunscreen on the market. This waterproof, no-rub formula is good for sensitive skin and everyday use. It also contains natural soy proteins, vitamins A and E, and antioxidants to help protect skin against environmental damage; convenient one-touch pump can spray at any angle. 10.99, drugstore.com

This Mother's Day we plan to give the moms in our lives products that will make them feel and look their best. It can be difficult being a mom, and that's why we believe that "me time" should also be on the daily to-do list (that never seems to end). We think these sets should help...

 

Give her the Philosophy Makeup Optional Kit if you know she isn't too much into makeup. Great looking skin begins with great skincare, and this set is one of our favorites. Everything she'll need to get a glowing complexion is included: Purity Made Simple cleanser, Hope In A Jar moisturizer, When Hope Is Not Enough A.M. Serum, Hope in a Tube Eye and Lip Firming Cream, plus two-applications of Microdelivery Vitamin C Foils. $78, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

Every glamorous mom knows that Smashbox delivers the fabulous goods when it comes to makeup. The new Glambox Vol. 4 Set-- inspired by palettes in every Smashbox artist's kit-- will keep her prepared thanks to the latest must-haves in the set. Each palette is sleek enough to fit into a purse for flawless beauty on-the-go. Includes a travel-size Arced Liner Brush. $68, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

For the mom who likes to glam it up, but is short on time, consider this Laura Geller Show Stoppers set. It comes with everything she'll need to create a classic, fool-proof look. We particularly love the Bronze-N-Brighten that suits most skin tones as well as the lipglosses- we think she will, too! $37, beauty.com

 

 

 

Spa-loving moms who enjoy indulging in life's simple luxuries will appreciate The Body Shop Spa Sanctuary Gift Set that comes complete with everything she could want to create a tranquil and pampering bath experience; the salt scrub along with products with ingredients like Monoi oil, Shea butter and honey, will leave her skin feeling renewed and feeling soft. $37, thebodyshop.com

 

 

 

 

Pacifica Hawaiian Ruby Guava Travel Set is a set featuring three products that will transport her senses to an island paradise. We love the luscious guava scented body butter, candle and solid perfume that can go anywhere and the fact that it leaves money in our pocketbooks makes giving this as a gift even sweeter. $14, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

 

Josie Maran Earth Day Essentials Green-On-The-Go Kit is green, but still packs a serious glamour punch (it's even on our beauty wishlist!). Featuring five eco-chic products, each will get her gorgeous, as well as introduce her to this award-winning line. $48, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

 

Our moms have always wished to have their own personal styists. Since that is way out of our reasonably-priced gift-giving strategy, she will have to accept this set by Oscar Blandi-- Oscar's Tool Kit. In it she will find Jasmine Protein Mist for Restyling Hair, Luce (a rinse-out gloss for adding shine to hair), Olio Di Jasmine Shine Spray, Seta Silk Polishing Cream, Pronto Dry Shampoo, plus an instructional DVD with Oscar's secrets for great hair. $48, sephora.com

For more, check out Mother's Day Gifts at StyleBakery.com

A few months ago, we shared our picks for adding more color to your beauty bags. Now the season is in full swing, and we can't help but feel inspired by all of the colors blooming outdoors, being displayed in store windows and taking center stage at our local beauty counters. This is the perfect time of year to add more punches of color to your beauty routine, no matter how subtle. Find these colorful picks in stores right now.

 

 

MAC "Just A Pinch" Gel Blush is a seriously bold red color in its pot, but goes on smooth and sheer when applied to our cheeks and lips. This color looks great on all skintones and can be worn as light or amped up as you like. $18.50, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

Essie Neon Collection

What better way to add color to your look than to add it to your tips and toes? We know that neon can be a bit scary for some, but when worn on the hands and feet, it's a lot less "in your face". Get this mini set, and don't be afraid to try them all. $18, essieshop.com

 

 

 

 

L'Oreal H.I.P Bright Duos Eyeshadows pack gorgeous, even more rich pigment than the original, into two colors that can be worn together or separately. Highly blendable, these colors go on sheer when applied with a shadow brush. Add more layers to turn up the volume on your desired look. $7, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

 

Bare Escentuals Free To Be Naturally Adventurous Set With gorgeous, vibrant colors, this 100% pure, preservative-free set allows the user to play up her bohemian style; give yourself exotic eyes, sparkling cheeks, and inspiring lips with all of the lively colors. Includes a blush, two eyecolors, one liner shadow and a gloss housed in a teal clutch. $39.50, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

Sephora Brand Moroccan Sunrise Bag Collection We believe beauty junkies can never have too many cosmetic bags. We know these will never be worn with our favorite ensembles, but these tangerine colored bags look so good in our bathrooms, and really make keeping our ever-growing beauty arsenal well-organized. Available in four sizes. From $9, sephora.com

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If "green is the new black", then green should be sleek, sexy and make anyone who wears it feel fabulous. After all, just because something is good for the environment, or your health, doesn't mean it has to lack in the glamour department, especially in the beauty department. These five gems have stolen our hearts, and if you haven't tried them yourself, what are you waiting for?

 

 

Korres Guava Lipstick is free of parbens and sulfates, but full of antioxidant vitamin C & E. With lip-soothing Shea butter, this lipstick goes beyond giving lips rich, beautiful color-- it really gives lips something to smile about. $22, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tarte Natural Beauty Cheek Stain For a natural-looking flush created with natural ingredients, this is one to try. The sheer berry color gives cheeks (of all colors) just a kiss of natural tint by using pigments derived from fruit and pure minerals. Wear it alone or under your favorite powder blush. $28, beauty.com

 

 

 

 

 

100% Pure Ultra Lengthening Mascara lengthens, separates, thickens and glosses lashes with fruit and Black tea pigments. This long-lasting, water and smudge-resistant formula uses lash-nourishing ProVitamin B5, Vitamin E, Oat and Wheat proteins to condition for lashes that look and feel healthy. Suitable even if you wear contacts or have sensitive eyes. Available in three shades. $27 for two, qvc.com 

 

 

 

 

 

Organic Wear Duo Eye Shadow uses all 100% natural ingredients, and gives your pocket book a break. For less than $6 each, these shadows come in shades to suit your eye color, but we use them all- just because we can. OrganiSoy™ evens out skin tone and texture to restore skin smoothness while Eco-Olive™ helps shield skin from harsh environmental aggressors. $5.96, drugstore.com

 

 

 

Josie Maran Concealer doesn't just provide full coverage to hide any skin discolorations or imperfections. This natural beauty must-have treats skin with rejuvenating and antioxidant benefits. Like all of the products in the line, 100% Argan Oil is used to keep skin looking refreshed day after day. $22, amazon.com

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Keeping a budget when you're a beauty junkie is no easy feat, however, there are many fabulous products that are wallet-friendly and multi-tasking. We can't help but love the following products for their ability to give us a double dose of beauty goodness, and with nothing over $40, these won't put our bank accounts into the red.

 

 

Clinique Quick Blush is our favorite little on-the-go brush. What's even better is the fact that we never have to worry about our pink cheeks fading thanks to its built-in blush shade (it's in the cap). $21.50, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

 

L'Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes Mascara features a lash primer and mascara in one tube. We love the gorgeous lash effect this mascara gives, its staying power, and not to mention the funny way it's removed. No cleanser necessary-- just use water, and you literally pull the tubes off your lashes. $10.95, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

Lippman Collection Rich Girl Hand Cream SPF 25 is an amazing hand and cuticle cream that keeps hands looking and feeling their best. The SPF will ensure they stay that way for a long time. $24, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

 

philosophy Mimosa Shampoo Conditioner & Body Wash is one of many award winning 3-in-1 shampoo, body wash and bubble baths available from the brand. This version, in an invigorating mimosa scent, will make "bath time" grand with a delicious pairing of champagne and citrus. Go ahead, give yourself a reason to celebrate in your shower! 16 oz, $18, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

 

Stila Cherry Crush Lip & Cheek Stain is formulated to provide skin and lips with antioxidant protection while also leaving them drenched in moisture. Giving a unique look to each individual person's skin, this stain creates a perfect pretty flush every time. $24, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

philosophy The Supernatural Airbrushed Canvas SPF 15 not only conceals and camouflages, but also provides SPF protection all in one simple step. We love that the formula is talc-free and gives our skin a natural look while covering up imperfections where we need it. Ideal for all skin types. $35, sephora.com

It's no secret that we spend our days and nights testing out the latest and greatest beauty goodies, but there are so many of them out there that we don't always have time to try them right away (if you could see our laundry list of products we want and have yet to try, you wouldn't believe it!) The following is just a bite-sized, (mostly) affordable look at some beauty products we can't wait to try.

 

 

 

Lancome Genifique was just recently released, but it has the beauty world buzzing about it's remarkable time-reversng effects. After 10 years of research and 7 international patents, Lancome's latest accomplishment promises to give the user visibly younger-looking skin in just 7 days, leaving skin looking fresh, vibrant, and lit from within. Do we need to say more? $78, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

The L'Oreal Vive Pro Glossy Style product range is all about creating high shine no matter what hair texture you wear. We are all about shiny tresses, and these look like the perfect products to give us what we want at a fabulous price. $4.99 each, drugstore.com

 

 

Aveeno Active Naturals Nourish+ Hair Care Collection features shampoos and conditioners that are formulated with wheat proteins to nourish hair, as well as other ingredients to give your hair type what it really needs to be into beautiful shape-- Moisturize (for dry or damaged hair), Volumize (for fine or limp hair), Revitalize (for repairing everyday damage to normal hair) and Soothe (for dry, itchy scalp). $6.99 each, drugstore.com

 

 

We have heard that the MAC Penultimate Eye Liner will help give us everything from minimal eye definition to an exotic cat eye. All we know it that we sometimes have issues applying our liquid liner, and since this promises to deliver a fluid, skip-free line, we have to get our hands on it ASAP. $16.50, bloomingdales.com

 

 

 

Elizabeth Arden Pretty has drifted by our noses, but we've never experienced actually wearing it. The Pretty scent is described as being spirited and exceptionally charming while the advertising is uber-feminine and epitomises what we think of when we think of Spring. As with any scent, we won't know until we try it, but the notes of florals and fruits wrapped in a well-rounded background of serene woods is just too appealing. $62, macys.com

 

 

 

The new Almay Pure Blends line features a range of foundations, powders, eye shadows, glosses, and blushes that are all made with over 95% natural ingredients, including extracts from fruits and flowers. We also are loving that there are no outrageous, crazy colors in sight. Not that we mind doing something a bit more vibrant, but a soft, me-but-better face is always a good thing. from $7.49, drugstore.com

Did you know that most community recyclers only take items made from materials that are easily recognized- such as soda and water bottles-- and cosmetic and toiletry bottles, tubes, caps and jars are among those items not easily recognized, and therefore not often recycled? It's true, and we think that's so unfortunate. Thankfully, Origins has created a solution.

Origins has launched its "Return to Origins" Recycling Program, a first-of-its-kind nationwide cosmetics recycling program that accepts all cosmetic empties regardless of brand at over 450 Origins retail stores and Origins department store counters.

Tomorrow, April 2, as a celebratory occassion, the first 250 people to drop off beauty empties at the GM Plaza in New York City, and among the first 100 people to drop off beauty empties at the Origins Century City store in Los Angeles, will receive a FREE deluxe size A Perfect World Intensely hydrating body cream with White Tea. Origins will also be providing FREE A Perfect World hand and arm massages to all attendees.

Additional events will occur at the following locations:

Denver, CO - Origins Cherry Creek North 2800 E 2nd Ave 8am to 6pm

Boston, MA - Origins Faneuil Hall 1 Faneuil Hall Market Place 10am-9pm

Cambridge, MA - Origins Harvard Square 8 Brattle Street 10am-9pm

Austin, TX - Origins at Central Park 4001 N. Lamar Blvd. Suite 570 10am-8pm

San Francisco, CA - San Francisco Centre 865 Market Street 9:30am-8pm

 

So from now on, don't throw those empty beauty containers away. Take them to your local Origins, and you'll not only help the environment, but you'll be even more beautiful for it.

Visit Origins.com for more info.

--

No time to wash your hair today? Don't sweat it. You can make your hair look great without water simply by using a great dry shampoo. We love these little wonders when we need to refresh our blowouts, absorb excess oil or simply to reduce the amount of washings to preserve hair color. Here are some tips for using dry shampoos, then take a look at the ones we think you will love.

1.) Choose a dry shampoo (take a look at our choices below)

2.) Brush out your hair to make sure there are no tangles (and be sure your hair is dry, especially if you plan to use it after a workout)

3.) Apply the dry shampoo

**If you choose a powder over a spray, do it over the sink, and apply about a tablespoon of the shampoo to the top of your head and massage it throughout your scalp. Then, be sure to brush your hair well to distribute the product throughout your hair.

**If using a spray, aim the nozzle at your roots, lifting up sections of your hair. Rub the product into your scalp. Allow 5-10 minutes to go by to allow the dry shampoo to absorb the oil in your hair.

4.) Brush the shampoo out of your hair. Turn your head upside down and brush out all of the powder. Use a hair dryer to speed up this process. Style as usual.    

 

 

 

Klorane Gentle Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk is fabulous for girls on-the-go. This dry shampoo uses oat extract, cyclodextrins, and natural polysaccharides ( these are micronised powders with excellent oil-absorbing properties) to clean the hair without washing. $18, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

 

T3 360° Refresh Volumizing Dry Shampoo adds volume and texture in addition to cleaning hair. The formula is designed to give thirsty strands a break from washes and promote hair that looks and feels healthy. We love that it comes in three color formulas to compliment the tones in our hair-- genius! $25, beauty.com

 

 

 

 

Fekkai Au Naturel Dry Shampoo uses cotton fibers, rice starch, and corn starch to eliminate excess oil from the hair, is free of parabens and sulfates, and uses natural ingredients to neutralize odor and prevent dirt buildup. Sephora exclusive. $23, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

Ojon Rub-Out Dry Cleanser is made with the same Ojon oil that the brand is known for, so it gives locks an added boost of hydration. This dry cleanser also works great if you overuse a styling product-- simply spray and rub into the scalp revealing luminous, healthy-looking hair. Works for all hair types and is eco-friendly. $24, spalook.com

--

 

The weather is heating up, and while you may be feeling the need to leave your foundation behind, you still want a glowing complexion, right? We love Rose Byrne's glowing look, and think something like Dr. Brandt's Pores No More would do the trick. This luminating primer glides on smoothly, helps to fill in pores and keeps skin clear with breakout-fighting tea tree oil. The best part about this primer is how it also imparts a translucent veil of tint, meaning you won't need foundation. If you do have any unsightly spots or blemishes you'd like to cover, use a concealer after applying the primer. $45, sephora.com

--

As you know, we love beauty products. There are those that we have loved for many years, but every year, batches of newbie products are thrust into the market, and we, being the beauty junkies that we are, must give in to our product desires. Some leave us not so thrilled, while others have us excited to discover what impact they will bring to the masses. Check out the folowing products that are keeping us optimistic for the year ahead.

 

 

 

Max Factor Vivid Impact Lip Color was created to deliver fresh, rich pigment to not only saturate lips with amazing, look-at-me color, but to treat lips to fabulous moisture. This Shea butter-infused lipstick makes us forget we're wearing actual lipstick in the first place. $8.97, drugstore.com

In celebration of St. Patrick's Day, we thought it only fitting to share with you some of our favorite green-hued beauty goodies, sure to keep you from getting pinched, and always leaving you looking gorgeous.

 

Laura Geller Eye Rimz is a fabulous eyeshadow that can be used wet or dry, and produces some beautiful effects no matter how you decide to use it. Create a rich smoky eye or just give your peepers a hint of definition, you can't go wrong with this. Try it in Hocus Pocus for a deep emerald green that looks great paired with a peachy-pink lip. $26, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

M.A.C makes a fabulous shimmery green shadow called Humid that we love to add to our eyelids all alone for a great pop of color on our face. $14, nordstrom.com 

 

 

 

 

Another green shade from MAC comes in an unusual form-- lipgloss. You read right, Lustreglass in Spring Bean looks like a neon, who-would-put-that-their-lips color, but when worn, is a beautiful, shimmery gold. Looks great over any gloss or worn alone. $14, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

Almay Intense i-Color Mascara in Emerald Green is a great and subtle way to give your eye look a bit of color. We don't mind that it's intended for those with green eyes, because we think our brown eyes look just as good in it. $7.49, drugstore.com

 

 

 

ZOYA nail lacquer in Suvi is an amazingly rich, deep emerald green with a bit of metallic edge. We love that it's dark and not obnoxious on our grown-up tips. Of course, if you're not sure you want to wear it on your fingers, toes love this shade, too. $6, artofbeauty.com

Looking for a good cleanser for your own personal skin type? By choosing a cleanser that suits your skin you'll not only give your skin what it needs, but in time will make it look amazing. These are our picks:

 

 

For Normal Skin:

 

Ahava Cleansing Cream self-adjusts to your skin's pH level so it never overdries. We love that the creamy smooth consistency thoroughly cleanses and comforts skin on the first application, then removes oil, dirt, makeup, and other impurities without a trace left behind. $20, spalook.com

 

 

 

 

Phisoderm Deep Cleaning Cream Cleanser for Normal to Dry Skin is a pure and simple face wash that really cleans your skin. It nurtures skin with vitamin E for moisture and replenishes with aloe and chamomile. $4.79, drugstore.com

 

 

 

For Combination Skin:

 

Jurlique Purifying Foaming Cleanser is rich in lavender and tea tree oil to lift away surface impurities and help rebalance excess oil while soothing the dry parts of your face. The best part about this cleanser is that it leaves skin clean and refreshed, never dry. $40 sephora.com

 

 

 

Avene Gentle Gel Cleanser is what we call a no-frills cleanser. It's soap-free, rinses clean, and is suitable for normal to combination skin, eliminating impurities and makeup while soothing and softening the skin. $17, spalook.com

 

 

 

 

For Dry Skin:

 

 

Cetaphil is mild enough for babies and even dermatologists love it. It's clean, simple, and isn't packed with chemicals or perfumes that can irritate the skin. It soothes and softens as it cleanses, helping the skin retain needed moisture. $7.99, drugstore.com

 

 

 

Lancome 'Galatee Confort' Comforting Milky Creme Cleanser is great for dry skin because it's emollient-rich and milky, giving dry skin the moisture it thirsts for. This melts away makeup and impurities and instantly comforts skin with honey and sweet almond extracts. from $30, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

For Oily/Acne-Prone Skin:

 

 

Biore Blemish Fighting Ice Cleanser is the go-to cleanser to keep oil under control and keep blemishes at bay. Lavender soothes skin irritated by drying acne products, while salicylic acid keeps pores clean. $7.99, drugstore.com

 

 

 

Murad Acne Clarifying Cleanser is one of the best when it comes to deep-cleaning clogged pores. This gel, featuring antibacterial triclosan and salicylic acid, helps to gently but effectively reduce acne blemishes to keep skin clear. $26, sephora.com

 

 

 

For Sensitive Skin

 

 

Caudalie Gentle Cleanser leaves skin clean, feeling soft and free of impurities and makeup. This mild fluid protects skin against free radicals, gives skin new clarity and balance, and is free of parabens, sulfates, synthetic dyes and phthalates. $26, sephora.com

 

 

 

Olay foaming Face Wash for Sensitive Skin was created especially for the special needs of sensitive skin. This gentle cleanser is soap-free, oil-free and gently, yet effectively, cleans without overdrying. A plus is that it comes as close to being "unscented" as a cleanser can be. $4.49, drugstore.com

 

 

 

For Mature Skin:

 

 

Aveeno Positively Radiant Cleanser not only contains moisture-rich soy extracts and light diffusers to leave you with luminous looking skin, but this won't overdry skin which is great when you're skin is older. $7.49, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

Bioelements Moisture Positive Cleanser is rich and creamy, great for skin that is losing moisture. With natural plant extracts and aromatherapist oils to leave your skin feeling soft, clean and comfortable, skin will be hydrated, radiant and refreshed. $28, spalook.com

Getting a manicure is great, but sometimes we need to save money, so we opt to do it at home. This is our quick and easy recipe for a DIY manicure.

 

 

Begin by removing any existing nail polish so your nails are clean and dry.Try Cutex Quick & Gentle Nail Polish Remover, $2.09, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

Use a cuticle remover to help remove any dry cuticles and clean up the skin around the nail without having to cut anything. Try Sally Hansen Instant Cuticle Remover, $5.99, cosmeticmall.com

 

 

 

Apply a base coat (especially important if you're going with a darker color. A base will protect your nails from stains). We like Nubar Foundation base coat ($6.99, bynubar.com), it really helps polish last.

 

  

 

Now it's time to apply your color. Apply a thin layer of nail polish over the base coat. Placing the brush about half-way down your nail, push downward (which fans the bristles out) until you almost touch your nail bed. Then reverse and sweep upward. Repeat on each nail. Our pick right now? Zoya Malia, a gorgeous violet cream, from the new Twist Collection, $6, zoya.com 

 

 

After your first coat is nearly dry (this prevents bubbling), sweep the brush horizontally across the top of your nail to create an edge of polish and help prevent chipping, then proced to apply a second coat to the nails. 

 

 

After a few minutes, go over your hands with the polish remover soaked Q-tip ($4.99, drugstore.com), removing any excess smudges or paint from around your fingers.

 

 

 

 

Finally, apply a clear top coat over each nail to protect and seal the color. We love Seche Vite Fast Dry Top Coat, $9.99, drugstore.com

 

 

--

We loved the Oscars this year, and most of the beauty looks didn't let us down. Fabulous fresh skin and gorgeous makeup caught our attention, while hairstyles ranging from updos and hair half up and half down, to cascading curls and loose waves gave us a reason to keep watching.

 

Oscar Night HairTrend #1: Updos

 

Looking just as classy as she is beautiful, Diane Lane wowed us with her unfussy updo. We loved her timeless makeup that had a touch of shimmer on the eyes and her orange-red stained lips added just the right amount of color to compliment her black dress.

 

Natalie Portman looked so incredible it was hard not to stare. Her hair was done in a classic updo and her makeup looked flawless with highlighted cheeks, soft smokey eyes and glossy, rosy-pink lips.

 

Looking stunning in her red gown, Amy Adams opted to wear her updo at the nape of her neck in an asymmetrical fashion. With a smoky eye created with browns and purples, flawless skin and pink lips, we also love how her stunning necklace gave her face a glow.

 

 

Freida Pinto never disappoints us. We love her soft updo that complemented her one-armed gown (although we just could bring ourselves to love the gown, she still looked stunning). Her makeup, as always, looked amazing and because she's such a natural beauty, minimal makeup was used. Soft liner and shadow, blush to add a bit of color and a matte pink color on the lip.

 

 

Kate Winslet didn't wow us with her gown, but we were in love with her dynamic and modern hairstyle. Created to be reminiscent of Grace Kelly, the now Oscar-winning actress's makeup complimented the hairstyle with a classic and natural look.

 

Oscar Night Hair Trend #2: Half Up/Half Down

 

Jessica Biel is a beautiful starlet who unfortunately didn't make our best-dressed list. We were happy to see that, thankfully, her hair and makeup look fabulous-- she wore her hair in a soft, wavy 'do and kept her makeup look all about great skin, neutral eyes and a pink lip.

 

 

Angelina Jolie is stunning, yes we know. But until Sunday night, we had been let down by the Changling star in the hair and wardrobe department. She must have been on to us because she stunned us with her gorgeous cat eye, glowing skin, and glossy pink lip-- wow!

 

Melissa George was nothing short of gorgeous in the hair and makeup department. With loosely curled tresses pulled half up, she looked simply angelic and luminescent.

.

Dancing With The Stars co-host Samantha Harris looked fierce in an electric blue one-shoulder gown. What we love most is her choice to pair it soft makeup consisting of browns and pinks and a loose half-up hairstyle to keep her from looking too overdone.

 

 Oscar Night Hiar Trend #3: Hair Down

 

Amanda Seyfied is another actress who didn't get our vote in the fashion department, but took home a prize in the beauty category. Along with her hair styled in long loose waves, Amanda kept her look modern and youthful with a soft smokey eye-- a fine liner between lightly smudged eyeshadow and bare-looking lashes-- and a sheer crimson lip to finish off the look.

 

Jennifer Aniston didn't walk the red carpet, but her look still caught our attention. We love her cheery beach-worthy look complete with a French braid to hold the front of her hair back. Her makeup was complementing as well- very dewy skin, peachy-pink cheeks and light pink lips.

 

We love the necklace Taraji P. Hensen wore on Oscar Sunday-- it really lit up her face. Add to that her great layered bob (blown out smooth and given some added texture to make it a little more edgy for the big night), a fabulous smudged out liner, a bronzy-pink blusher on the cheeks and sheer pink gloss on the lips and we say it's a recipe for beauty success.  

Curious to know what some of the trends will be this fall? We have the beauty scoop straight from the runways of New York Fashion Week, Fall 2009... 

 

Diane von Furstenberg

 

"Nomad Chic" is the look as described by lead makeup artist, James Kaliardos

On the eyes: Soba Eye Shadow, blended over lids, up past crease, out toward temples, along lower lashline. Pearl Cream Colour Base, to highligh the inner corner of the eyes. Pro Barelash, a foundation-toned product applied with a mascara wand, combed through brows to diminish natural hair color.

On the face: Studio Sculpt SPF 15 Foundation, applied as a minimal base to the face. Pro Sculpting Powder, blended under cheekbones and up toward temples to contour. Pearl Cream Clour Base, touched on the high plane of the cheekbone for highlight.

On the lips: Lip Erase (a Pro Product), applied in a sheer layer to pale down the lips. Sculpt and Shape in Bone Beige, applied with a lips brush to line the mouth.

All products by MAC Cosmetics, most available at maccosmetics.com and nordstrom.com

 

 

 

Thakoon

Lead makeup artist Diane Kendal says of this look, "It's is all about the eyes with soft matte lips for contrast." To bring strength to the face, Diane focused on creating smoky eyes and full brows, while downplaying the lips and keeping skin fresh with a light brushing of blush for a healthy glow.

On the face: NARSskin Hydrating Moisture Cream to moisturize entire face. NARS Concealer, as needed, to cover any imperfections. A minimal amount of NARS Sheer Glow Foundation (NEW for Fall 2009). NARS Blush in Gilda, applied lightly on the apples of the cheeks.

On the eyes: NARS Eyeliner Pencil in Mambo to line upper lashes and crease, blend over entire lid and up to brows, keeping dense color by lashline. Line lower lashes and gently blend. NARS Single Eyeshadow in Bali to fill in brows. A very thin line on upper lashes with NARS Eyeliner Stylo in Black (NEW for Fall 2009). Lashes curled with NARS Eyelash Curler

Lips: NARS Rain Lip Therapy Treatment applied to entire lip. A small amount of NARS Concealer over Rain to take down color.

All products by NARS Cosmetics, available now, unless noted, at beauty.com

 

 

Carolina Herrera

 

Lead Artist Diane Kendal describes this look to be about beautiful fresh skin, enhancing natural highlights where light hits the face.

On the eyes: Deep Dark Pro pigment, blended into crease of the eyelid, around the outer corner of the eyes and along the lower lashline. Studio Touch-up stick concealer, buffed onto eyelids as a base. White Pigment, glazed over the eyelids.

On the face: Studio Sculpt SPF 15 Foundation, applied in a sheer layer one shade lighter than natural skin tone. Hand Finish Mineralize Blush, blended onto the apples of the cheeks. White Frost Pigment, touched onto cheek bones to highlight.

On the lips: Twig lipstick, feathered onto lips with a lip brush. Local Colour Dazzleglass, applied in the center of the lips.

All products by MAC Cosmetics available at maccosmetics.com and nordstrom.com

It's a bit chilly in New York, but that doesn't mean stars look any less hot when they attend shows at the Tents for Fashion Week. Take 90210 star Jessica Stroup, who, despite the bitter cold, heated up the room at every show she attended. Want the scoop on how her smoldering look was created? Of course you you do-- that's why you're here!

theBalm makeup artist, Felicia Roman wanted to keep all attention on Jessica's bright blue eyes, so she went dramatic with the lids and kept the rest of the star's face simple.

Here's the step-by-step:

1.) Felicia started by using the Pick-Up-Liners pencil in Don Juan (three in a set, $19, sephora.com) to smudge a line around the lashes and in a thicker line covering most of the bottom part of the lid to achieve smoky definition. Because the Pick Up Liners are half the size of a typical pencil, Felicia was able to get up close and really push the liner into the base of the lashes with perfect precision.

 

2.) Felicia dabbed Lucious Lani eyeshadow (the champagne shade from the ShadyLady Eye Shadow Palette, $38, sephora.com ) across the lid to highlight the symmetrical shape of her face and then finished it off with a light dusting of the sheer 100% mineral Overshadows in You Buy, I'll Fly (a copper shimmer, $15, sephora.com) to make Stroup's eyes really pop. It was also blended into the lower lash line over the pencil for an ethereal finish.

The lashes were defined and volumized with 3 coats of Two Timer Mascara ($20, sephora.com); two coats to instantly build fuller lashes and a third to separate and lengthen.

 

 

 

 

3.) When it came to the skin, Felicia evened out and smoothed Jessica's skin by blending BalmShelter Tinted Moisturizer ($25, sephora.com) with TimeBalm Concealer ($18, sephora.com). Becaue the TimeBalm Concealer has time released hydrating properties, there was no need to reapply between shows- Jessica's under eye area stayed bright all day.

 

 

 

A few swipes of SexyMama translucent powder ($19, sephora.com) gave a photo-finish, and then a combo of the matte Bahama Mama bronzer ($19, sephora.com) with the more shimmering berry-toned Hot Mama blush ($19, sephora.com) gave a healthy glow to Jessica's cheeks.

 

 

 

4.) Finally, Felicia conditioned and nourished Stroup's lips with theBalm to the Rescue ($16, sephora.com), and topped them off with either BalmShelter Lip Gloss in Girly-Girl (for a pinky-coral finish, $19, sephora.com) or Plump Your Pucker in Cocoa My Coconut (a warm nude, $15, sephora.com) to add some shimmer. Jessica LOVED the yummy flavors of the glosses, especially Cocoa My Coconut which she wore at the Jill Stuart show.



--

Hilary Duff was our pick for best dressed at Heart Truth's Red Dress Collection fashion show last week, and her messy updo really complimented her stunning gown. With a bit of a jagged part, dark roots and a few flyaways, her hair still looked amazing.

To achieve this "controlled mess", it's important to prep hair with texturizer before blowing it out with a round brush (try Fekkai Coif Bouffant Lifting and Texturizing Spray Gel, $23, nordstrom.com). Next, flip dry hair up and down (this adds body), then pull it back into a loose bun. When your hair is secure, finish the look by pulling a few wisps out by your ears.



--

It's Fashion Week in New York, and while we are previewing all of the fabulous trends coming for Fall '09, we have our eyes on Spring, and fabulous warm-weather trends. One of the hottest makeup trends for the season is bright and cheerful palettes of rich blues, pretty pinks, and oh-so flattering corals. We love that we can create a beachy look without turning to the predictable bronzer. These are some items that you'll want in your makeup bag to carry you through the season:

 

 

Maybelline Expertwear Duo Eyeshadow in Sea Glass will give your eyes a gorgeous wash of blue shimmer. Layer for a dramatic look or simply keep the look sheer by swiping over lids with a light hand. Either way, wear them paired with a glossy lip for a look that is this year's new beach cool. $3.59, drugstore.com

 

 

Wet 'n' Wild Kohl Eyeliner Pencil in Turquoise will give your eyes a fresh pop! of color just in time for spring. We not only love the smooth, creamy formula that lasts all day, but the price tag has us hooked every time. $1.29, drugstore.com

 

 

 

Bobbi Brown Brights Eye Palette is every eyeshadow lovers dream. We've featured this before, but we can't get enough of it. It does, after all, have 35 colors to choose from, and even Bobbi herself recommends wearing these sparingly. The blues we're loving? Pacific, Blue Denim and Cloud Blue shades. $70, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

Revlon Strawberry Electric Nail Polish is just the bright pink to cheer you up if you're feeling down. We love the on-the-brink of neon this color has, and the faint undertones of violet keep us wanting more. $4.99 drugstore.com

 

 

JK Jemma Kidd Airkiss Shine Lipgloss in Poser is a fantastic bright pink that never looks obnoxious. This shade is every bit the glamorous shade. We love that this moisturizing gloss isn't sticky, but full of high-watt shine. lasts . $16, target.com

 

 

Givenchy Rouge Interdit Satin Lipstick in Tempting Coral will smooth and nourish your lips with antioxidants while long-wearing color will get you through a long day of fun in the sun. $27, sephora.com

 

 

 

Benefit Coralista is our must-have face color. With an amazing buildable formula,, you can take it from sheer and sweet to bright and bold. $28, sephora.com

--

We all loved Hello Kitty growing up (and admittedly still do). When we fell in love with makeup and discovered MAC, it became one product line that was always on our must-have list. Now the two have come together to create a most adorable and fabulous collection that we can't help but be excited about. Take a look at our picks from this limited-edition collection. Don't wait, this will sell out fast!

 

 

 

MAC Hello Kitty Eyeshadow x 4 in Too Dolly is the perfect palette for creating a plethora of looks from dramatic to bright. The colors are also a great way to update your look for the spring season, and of course, Hello Kitty adorns the black packaging-- isn't she cute? $38, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

 

Glitter Eyeliner can make eyes shimmer sweetly in the daytime and really pump up the volume for a fun night out on the town. The long-lasting liner won't flake and comes in four glittery shades. $16.50, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

 

 

MAC Hello Kitty Lipsticks come in frost, lustre and glaze formulas. It's may be hard to resist just choosing one of these adorable tubes with Hello Kitty's image on it. We have our eyes on Cute-ster and Most Popular. $14, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

 

MAC Hello Kitty Beauty Powder Blush comes in a cute black window-style compact and features a pretty blush to add a hint of color to your cheeks. Available in two shades. $18, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

 

Tinted Lip Conditioner works well over any lipstick or on its own to add a hint of color while keeping lips feeling and looking soft. $14.50, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

 

MAC Hello Kitty Nail Lacquer features three amazing shades that will work any time of year. Because as every beauty-loving gal knows, well-groomed tips and toes keep every style looking polished (no pun intended). $11, bloomingdales.com

 

 

 

Hello Kitty Makeup Bag will keep all of your essentials together in a cute more "grown up Kitty" way. Sleek, black and rectangular soft black vinyl features pink and white Hello Kitty graphics on both sides and a circular silver metal Hello Kitty charm on the zip. $35, macys.com




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Every girl loves to receive roses, but there's something we beauty-loving gals would rather have; they have a rose scent or color to them, they'll make us smell, look and feel great, and they won't die in a week. That's right, rose-themed beauty items. Take a look at what we'd love to receive (or even buy for ourselves) this Valentine's Day. 

 

 

 

Pop Beauty Rose Belle Blush Kit features enough colors to give yourself a new rosy glow everyday. We love the rose, pink and mauve options that work on every skintone- wear each shade alone or together to create your own perfect flush. $28, beauty.com

 

 

 

 

Jo Malone Red Roses Cologne is like waering a fabulous, fresh bouquet of flowers. This fragrance is made from seven different rose types, and delivers a suprisingly clean scent. $55, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

 

 

Healing Garden Sugar Cane Body Scrub in Passionate Rose cleans and exfoliates beautifully, and we can't get enough of the intoxicating smell. $7.49, drugstore.com 

 

 

 

 

Bobbi Brown Rose Shimmer Brick Compact is one of our favorite multi-tasking products. We like to use the individual shades on eyelids as a shadow, and swept over our cheeks to give them a soft, shimmer glow. $38, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

John Masters Organic Rose Foaming Face Wash is gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin, and contains botanicals to nourish and soothe. With essential rose oil to revitalize the skin, this green cleanser gets skin beautifully clean but leaves it feeling soft and hydrated. $19, beautorium.com

 

 

 

 

L'OCCITANE Bon Bon Rose Lip Gloss gives our lips a "my lips, but better" look when worn alone, but also adds a great dose of moisture and shine to our lips over our favorite lipcolor. $10, loccitane.com

--

We asked our friend and celebrity makeup artist, Melissa Walsh, to put together a fabulous and time-friendly routine to help you put together a look on Valentine's Day that would be sure to make you feel and look your best. Whether you plan a romantic night out with the one you love, or a night out with the girls, don't hesitate to try these tips (along with product suggestions), and have a great Love Day!

 

Melissa says:

 

"Start with a light serum that smooths the skin and sinks in immediately without leaving an oily residue - Janson Beckett Vitamin C&C Facial Serum ($44.50, spalook.com) is perfect for this."

 

 

 

 

 

"Then, dust a powder foundation all over, being careful to blend well - Smashbox Halo Hydrating Powder ($59, beauty.com) gives a really natural glow with great coverage."

 

 

 

 

"Using a fluffy brush, swirl a sheen powder blush onto the apples of your cheeks - I love Cargo's Catalina blush ($24, sephora.com) as it is a perfect pinky-coral shade."

 

 

"As you don't have much time, use one shade of eyeshadow all over the lid and into the crease; think soft sheeny, muted shades like taupe, heather and moss, and take it under the lower lashline too. Line the top lashes with a soft matte pencil and soften the edges with a cotton bud. A few coats of thickening mascara (try Lash Venom by DuWop, $24, sephora.com) finish the eyes."

 

 

"For your lips use a stain or a cream tint like the ones by Jouer ($20, jouercosmetics.com ), which can also be used as a blush - Amaryllis is especially pretty - and smooth into the lips for a barely there flush."

 

 

**Melissa's tips if you only have 5 minutes:

"Spray your face with a refreshing mist like Caudalie Beauty Elixir (from $15, sephora.com), which I always use to smooth my skin and freshen my makeup after a long day. Let it dry for a few seconds and then, using a cream tint in a versatile shade like a soft gold or bronze, smooth onto eyelids, cheeks and lips. Lots of mascara for definition and a light colored eyeliner in the lower lashline will open up your eyes. You should be finished in less than 5 minutes but still will sweep your man off of his feet!"

--

With Valentine's Day only a couple of weeks away, we have found that the best gifts for this romantic holiday are those that make us not only feel great, but look it, too. Don't get us wrong, we do enjoy our chocolate just as much as the next gal, but with so many chocolate-themed beauty goodies out there, we'll sacrifice our sweet tooth (at least for a time) for these calorie-free treats instead.

 

 

Bare Escentuals Sweet Decadence Eyeshadows feature four silky shades to make you look oh-so gorgeous and sweet.These, like all BE products, are made with pure minerals so we'll always feel good about using them. $28, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

100% Pure Dark Chocolate Body Scrub makes us think we might start to crave taking more than one shower a day. With the smell of chocolate, and knowing that we'd never see the consequences of the indulgence on our hips, using this antioxidant-rich skin smoother to bring radiance to our skin might almost be as good as eating the real thing. $22, beauty.com

 

 

 

Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Bronzing Powder will give a sun-kissed glow to your winter skin. Combining both the natural, deep and skin-soothing effects of real cocoa powder with the signature Too Faced bronzing pigments, this is a "delicious" deep tan in a compact. $28, nordstrom.com

 

 

Elf Candy Shop Lipgloss in Mocha Maniac will keep the chocolate lover in you satisfied with high shine, great taste and moisture to keep those lips looking their best. $2, eyeslipsface.com

 

 

 

KLS Beauty Chocolate Shimmer Powder works to give a fabulous and smells like amazing chocolate. We love that is can be dusted on for a hint of shimmer or mixed with our favorite body moisturizer for a delectable glow. $24, beauty.com

 

 

 

 

Essie Nail Color in Chocolate Kisses has a yummy name and looks oh-so chocolately. This shade could easily be mistaken for a bottle of milk belgian chocolate sauce. Eating, however, it is not advised. $8, essie.com

 

 

 

Philip B Chocolate Milk Body Wash & Bubble Bath nurtures and conditions skin with ingredients like cocoa butter, oat protein, and aloe. But it's the amazing, rich scent of chocolate and milk that will make you feel like being a kid again. This body wash and bubble bath-- yes, that means can soak in it-- will indulge your senses, and just make you happy. $35, beauty.com

 

 

**Beauty Chef Recipe: Make your own Chocolate Facial Mask at home. This mask is actually an excellent moisturizer, leaving your skin baby soft.

1/3 cup cocoa powder

3 tbsp. heavy cream

2 tsp. cottage cheese

¼ cup honey

3 tsp. oatmeal

Mix all ingredients together (a bullet blender works great) and smooth onto face. Relax for 10 minutes, then wash off with warm water.

The 2009 SAG Awards are one of our favorite award shows simply because it's a bit more relaxed and actors are given the opportunity to award their fellow actors. Of course, as always, we love to "ooh" and "ahh" at the gorgeous makeup and hair. This year we saw everything from beautiful updos to long, loose waves; curled tresses and flowy straight manes. We saw red lips and eyes decked out in icy shadows (eyeshadows, that is), and we loved every minute of it. Check out our favorites.

 

 

 Anne Hathaway enchanted us with a lush lash look that complimented her glossy berry stained lip. We loved her loosley tousled hair that not only screams chic, but carefree at the same time.

 

 

January Jones caught our attention, as always, with a fresh look that was both romantic and bold. With makeup to compliment her natural beauty, hairstylist Mark Townsend continued that theme by creating soft yet modern waves on the Mad Men star. 

 

 

Julia Ormond glowed with radiant skin and shiny hair. We love how her full brows and big lashes made her green eyes really pop, while a soft glossy pink lip and glowing cheeks kept her look fresh.   

 

 

Taraji P. Henson wowed us again with shimmery, defined eyes and a glossy lip. And while her hair may be cut in a classic bob, we love the high shine added to keep the glamour quotient at maximum levels. 

  

Kate Winslet is a red carpet goddess this award season, and here is another example of why. A great side-swept updo kept her looking sophisticated while shimmery eye makeup and a neutral palette of soft pinks on her cheeks and lips added just the right amount of glamour.    

 

  

Jennifer Morrison never disappoints us when it comes to the red carpet. The House star's look had an ethereal quality with loose waves and luminous makeup. Bronze and pink tones kept the look light and airy and really complimeted her white gown.  

 

 

Viola Davis was the picture of glamour at the evening's festivities. With soft curls framing her face, and subtle yet flattering makeup complimenting her skin, we were in awe of her fabulous glow.    

 

The gorgeous Freida Pinto captivated our attention with her classic updo and flawless skin. We love the use of blue and violet toned eyeshadows to help frame her black-rimmed eyes while a rasberry hue gave her lips their glossy finish.

--

It's time to brighten up! Your smile, that is. No one can deny that a fabulous white smile looks great on everyone, but who wants to spend hundreds of dollars to get it? You don't have to spend a fortune these days, there are so many amazing products on the market right now. Take a look at our five favorite products to help your pearly whites look their brightest.

 

 

CoverGirl Wetslicks AmazeMint Lipglosses are on our love, must-have, can't-live-without list. "Fake it till you make it" is a great way to describe how these glosses help create a whiter smile. Each color has a slight blue tone that will give teeth the appearance of being whiter, not to mention the minty flavor has only raised our approval rating.  $6.49, drugstore.com

 

 

Rembrandt Intense Stain Toothpaste has become our must-have toothpaste. Not  only does it deep clean our teeth the way a facial does our skin, but it gives us even more reasons to smile. Our teeth are healthy and white, and the fresh minty taste leaves us looking forward to "getting our brush on" twice a day. $7.49, drugstore.com

 

 

Tarte Embrightenmint is a double-ended, tooth-whitening wand and lip gloss product specifically designed to not only give you the whitening you want on-the-go, but the gloss makes teeth appear whiter because of its bluer tone. We love it in Pearly Pink for day and Radiant Red at night. $26 sephora.com

 

 

 

My Youthful Smile by It! Cosmetics features a Smile Brightening Lip Plumping Gloss on one end, with blue based colors specially designed to counteract the appearance of yellow teeth and make your smile whiter instantly, as well as a Smile Line Wrinkle Fill cream with collagen and anti-oxidants on the other to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles around your mouth. Available in three shades. $32, beauty.com

 

 

Crest Whitestrips Daily Whitening + Tarter Protection Strips only require five minutes of daily use to achieve beautiful pearly whites. These are fabulous if you have any sensitivity to whitening, but we really like that these give the results without the huge time commitiment. We have only been using these for a week, and already notice a difference.  $34.99, drugstore.com 

Jenna Fischer, who plays our favorite secretary on the hit series The Office, looked beautiful at the Golden Globes. We were mesmerized by her flawless look, and her makeup complemented her dress so well. So, just how did she get this look? We did some digging to bring you the beauty scoop.

Makeup artist Brett Freedman played up the Jenna's look by extending the eyeliner on her eyes and created a more vivid, "out of the box glam" for the usually subtle Jenna using the following products:

 

Foundation: LORAC Oil Free Powder Foundation in #02 (light), $35, sephora.com 

Loose Powder: Magic by Prescriptives in Deep Translucent. Brett says, "This product has a gorgeous light reflective quality with a hint of bronze, so it photographs beautifully." $35, nordstrom.com

Concealer: Cle De Peau Concealer in Beige.$85, cosmeticmall.com 

Blush: Almay Smart Shade Blush in Natural, $5.39, drugstore.com, topped with LORAC Oil Free Illuminating Powder in Luminous on apples of the cheeks. $32, beauty.com

Eyeshadow: RIMMEL Colour Rush Mono Eyeshadow in #330 Azure, applied wet and swept over lids and blended down to a sheer finish.

Liquid Liner: LANCOME La Laque Liner in Pure Black, applied in a line across the top lash line, thickening and extending out and upward for a dramatic look. $25, nordstrom.com

Brow Highlight Shadow: LOREAL HiP pigment powder in Restless. Brett says, "I love a bright, crisp browbone. This champagne hued shadow looks natural yet packs a punch." $12, drugstore.com

Mascara: VANITYMARK 'the LASH' in Blackest. Three coats were applied to really amp up the top lashline. One full coat on the bottom to give eyes definition without overpowering the top lash line. $16, vanitymark.com

Faux Lashes: Kre-At Beauty individual lashes. A mix of the short (on the inner eye) and the long (for outer) in black were used to give an alluring sweep.

Body Bronzer: VANITYMARK Summerskin, applied first to 'tone down' the tawny shade so Jenna would have a healthy glow without being too tan. Brett says, "When you're showing that much flesh it's good to have a nice lift of color."  $14, vanitymark.com

Lips: BENEFIT Pocket Pal in Benetint, $20, sephora.com



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The Golden Globes was a night of gorgeous gowns and beautiful hair and makeup looks. Most of our favorite celebrities showed up and wowed us. Unfortunately, some of them didn't. Take a look at our favorite and not so favorite looks of the big night.

 

Our Favorites:

 

 

Maria Menounos looked gorgeous as always. We love the romantic updo and soft makup that ony helped to compliment her one-shoulder royal blue gown.  

 

 

Kate Beckinsale never dissapoints us when it comes to red-carpet looks. At the Golden Globes she opted for a sleek updo and dewy skin. Bold earrings really helped add a strong, yet polished statement.

 

 

Beyonce isn't one to shy away from trying bold looks, but we were happy to see her looking more refined at this event. Soft grey smokey eyes, a pale shiny lip, and a polished low ponytail brought this very beautiful look together.

 

  

Kristen Scott Thomas was the picture of glamour and elegance on Sunday night. We couldn't help but be in awe of her glowing skin. Nothing overdone, just sheer and pretty. 

 

 

Olivia Wilde looked fabulous in her strapless lilac gown, and instead of going the updo route, chose to wear her hair down. Thankfully, the Golden Globes aren't a stuffy event, so it worked. Lightly smudged eye makeup, pink cheeks and pale pink lips make this star look cool and comfortable under the heat of the sun.

 

 

 

Isla Fisher glowed in neutral pink and brown makeup tones. But while this makeup made the Confessions of a Shopaholic star look gorgeous, we could only covet her shiny hair! It seemed to be the focal point of her look as her dress was also neutral. Wow...

 

Jennifer Morrison had all eyes on her as she walked the red carpet in her breath-taking blue gown. Of course our eyes were on her hair and makeup: icy metallic-rimmed eyes, peachy-pink cheeks and lips, not to mention glowing skin. Could she look any better?

 

 

Our Not-So-Favorites:

 

  

Renee Zellweger could have knocked her look out of the park had it not been for her over-done hair. We were disappointed, of course, to see one of our favorite stars not looking her best. At least this is only the start of award season. She'll have many more chances to wow us in the coming weeks.

 

 

Drew Barrymore has shown us many looks in the past. Some have been good, some not, and this has definitely landed on the latter list. We love the idea of a bombshell 'do Drew was going for, but somehow the finished look didn't work for us, though we know many people loved her look.

 

 

 

Angelina Jolie didn't seem too into the night's event, and it showed. Her look, to us, fell flat. We're sure she would much rather have been home with her kids than attending yet another red-carpet function, so we hold nothing against her for that.

 

 

 

Blake Lively arrived at the Golden Globes in a fabulous blue gown, and her makeup was stunning, but we didn't really care for the under-done look of her hair. Don't get us wrong, loose waves are always a do, but this style just missed the mark.

 

Megan Fox is one actress we feel has many missteps on the red carpet. Her gold gown is beyond flattering, and her makeup is flawless, but, like the other starlets on our not-so-favorite list, she threw it off with her hairstyle. The bun is just too tight. We would have preferred to see her hair in a looser style. Oh well, maybe next time.

January Jones and Freida Pinto looked amazing at this weekend's Golden Globe Awards. Although January went for an old Hollywood look and Freida opted for a more sunkissed glow, both looked gorgeous, and we were in awe of their flawless looks.

 

To create the glamorous eye look on January Jones, makeup artist Rachel Goodwin used Chanel Automatic Liquid Eye Liner in Brun along the upper lid extending out to the edge of the brow. $34, nordstrom.com

January's tangerine-red lip was acheived using Chanel Rouge Allure in Dazzling, $30, nordstrom.com

 

For Freida's sunkissed look, makeup artist Jeffery Paul mixed together a foundation and concealer, only using it where it was needed. He then used Jouer Creme Highlighter on her cheeks to bring out her natural definition. $20, jouercosmetics.com

For a pretty pink that accentuated Frieda's natural lip color, Jeffery used Jouer Moisturizing Lip Gloss in Monsoon, $20, jouercosmetics.com

We love hair products that provide the best shine, bounce and softness, as well as control for the styles we want. Of course, recessionistas know that spending a fortune isn't always an option, but who wants to compromise on quality? Thankfully, many drugstore brands have fabulous products, and more pricey finds can easily be purchased in smaller sizes. The following is a list of our favorite hair products that are less than ten dollars each, and always leave us with good hair days.

 

 

Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo washes away the build-up of your favorite products, without stripping hair of it's essential oils, so they will again work to make your hair looks it's best. We like to use this once a month, but it can be used daily, especially if you have a habit of using a lot of product. $7.99, drugstore.com

 

 

 

Ojon Shine & Protect Conditioner is a nourishing conditioner that not only moisturizes and detangles hair, but leaves it with a high-gloss finish. Formulated with all-natural, plant-based, active ingredients, a UV-inhibiting complex, and natural conditioning extracts like sweet almond oil, this lightweight conditioner is great for many hair types. 2 oz., $9, sephora.com

 

 

 

Frederic Fekkai Hair Mask with Shea Butter is like an indulgent treat for the hair. Never greasy or heavy, this mask hydrates and repairs the hair with moisturizing shea butter and macadamia nut oils leaving hair silky and shiny. 1.6oz, $8.50, beauty.com

 

 

 

L'Oreal Color Vive line of shampoo and conditioners are great for color-treated hair. We love that there are different formulations based on hair type so our gorgeous manes get the care they need, our color lasts longer and we save money. $4.99 drugstore.com

 

 

 

Avon Advance Techniques Mirror Shine Spray combats the flyaways and leaves hair feeling and looking soft. A light misting over the hair is all you need to have healthy-looking hair all day. It's no wonder women continue to buy this over and over again. Tip: Spry on hands first, the run through hair to ensure you don't go over board with the spray and end up looking greasy. $4.99 avon.com

 

 

Oscar Blandi Proteine di Jasmine Protein Mist for Restyling Hair To Go is the perfect size for travel, not to mention has a small price tag. We sometimes need to restyle our hair, and loved how it looked the previous day, but don't have the time to "start from scratch". Mr Blandi has made restyling easy with this spray, giving us another day of fabulous hair without having to wash it. 2 oz, $8, sephora.com

 

 

Jonathan Product Finish Control High Shine Aerosol Hairspray works to control your style while leaving it full of shine. We are never disappointed by this hairspray, but when the budget is low, we have to settle for the mini size. 2.25 oz, beauty.com

 

 

 

 

Tresemme Tres Create Styling Putty works great if you have fine hair that needs control without being weighed down, or if you have a shorter style you want to give more texture to. The non-greasy formula gives a light hold and never gets stiff. $4.75, drugstore.com

With a new year comes a fresh start, so it's time to clean out your cosmetic case and throw away old products that you've had for too long or those that will never be used again. With all that extra room you now have in your bag, check out these just-released goodies:

 

 

 

Covergirl Outlast Lipstains are the newest way to wear lipstains. We have found these water-based lippies are fabulous to apply and when we need long-lasting color they never leave our lips feeling dried out. We resolve to use these year-round. Available in 10 shades. $7.49 each, drugstore.com

 

 

 

Smashbox HALO Hydrating Perfecting Powder & Brush Set is great for all skin types. We fell in love with this revolutionary antiaging formula (that contains Gogi berry, a powerful antioxidant) when we were given the opportunity to try it out during L.A. Fashion week. It made our skin look and feel amazing! Infused with encapsulated water to refresh and hydrate the skin, this pressed powder has a built-in shaver, so you get the convenience of a pressed powder, but end up with the radiant finish of a loose one. The super-sized brush deposits perfect amount of powder, so you end up with the best finish every time. $59, sephora.com

 

 

Bobbi Brown Brights Palette is perfect for you if you're not afraid to play with color, and desire to keep maximum products in a minimal amount of space. These 35 soft matte shadows come in a colorful shade range that includes everything from pinks and greens to blues and purples. All the shades are new and exclusive to this palette, which features a unique, fold-out design and full size mirror. Limited edition. $70, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

MAC Penultimate Eye Liner is a liquid pen-style liner that provides the ultimate precise, bold line. It goes on smooth, and though it isn't waterproof, once it dries, it stays put. We think this is a fabulous liquid liner to try if you've shied away from them in the past-- it's very user-friendly! $16.50, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

 

Clinique Quick Blush is a portable powder blush for cheeks. We love that this easy to use blush offers an innovative way to keep blush and brush with us on-the-go- with a twist of the hand, the brush picks up color inside the cap. The formula is appropriate for all skin types and tones, and offers us a natural-finish. As with all Clinique products, this is allergy tested and 100% Fragrance free. $21.50, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

Sonia Kashuk Look How To Look Organically Natural face palette is a collection of beautiful, neutral colors that will give you a a natural-but-better makeup look. Again, because of the palette, the 3 eyeshadows, mirror, step-by-step application directions, 3 lipglosses, applicator and blush will take up less space in your makeup bag. $19.99, target.com

--

Earlier this month, Heidi Klum showed up at the Victoria's Secret Lexington Avenue Flagship Store Opening Party not only with a new haircut (we love it!), but with stunning, defined eyes and bold lipcolor.
 

To create Heidi's thick-lash look, celebrity makeup artist Linda Hay used as many short individual lashes as possible on both the top and bottom lashlines. "I then applied a very fine line of Victoria's Secret Glitter Eyeliner in Licorice and liberal quantities of High Definition mascara from Victoria's Secret."

Hay calls the combination of a strong, defined brow, individual lashes and berry stain on the lips "super striking" on Heidi. We think this look is a perfect balance of naughty and nice, not to mention it makes her look amazing!

 

Victoria's Secret High Definition mascara, $12, victoriassecret.com

Heidi Klum Collection Glitter Liquid Liner, $10, victoriassecret.com

Now that 2008 is coming to a close, it's the perfect time to recap some of the most popular features of the year:

February: Fall 2008: Get The Hottest Beauty Looks Straight From The Runways
From fresh to retro-inspired, learn how to recreate some of the hottest designer looks straight from the Fall Runways.

March: The Best Beauty Tools
Everyone knows the itty bitty brushes that come with our favorite cosmetics are usually meant for the trash can. Get yourself some real brushes, and with proper care they can last forever.

April: Advice For Preventing Runny Mascara and Eyeliner
The ultimate mascara that stays put until you take it off.

June: Sweat-Proof Beauty Must-Haves
Survive the three H's with these heat- and humidity-proof products that will keep you looking and feeling cool as a cucumber.

July: Beauty Goes Hi Def
Although the demand for Hi Def products was created for those onscreen and the makeup artists applying it, the consumer at home benefits from better options in traceless beauty products.

July: 10 Tips For A Perfect Self Tan
Looking for that perfect streak-free at-home bronze? Here are 10 tested tips to help make you a sunless tanner pro.

July: Top Five Tested Self-Tanners For 2008
Sunless tanning has come a long way from that orange tell-tale faux glow. Here are the top 5 tanners we tested this year to give you a natural at-home bronze.

August: Sunscreen Solutions: Natural Sunscreens, Two-In-One Products And More
Sunscreen is an essential part of your year round beauty maintenance. Beauty Editor Mickey Williams addresses your most common ray blocking questions and rounds up the newest skin saving solutions.

October: Time-Saver Beauty: Roll-On Beauty Products
Save precious minutes with the latest packaging trend: time-saving roll-on products.

November: Must-Have Beauty Products, Fall/Winter 2008
Trends this year mimic those of the '80s with a splash of '40s femme. Beauty is sophisticated and luxurious. Here are some easy additions to pull off this year's Fall-Winter transition.

November: Solutions For Dry Winter Skin
For many of us, it is a never ending battle to keep our skin hydrated and nourished, especially in the Fall and Winter seasons. Here are some skin-saving solutions for even the driest complexion.

December: Products We Are Loving Right Now
hese are the products we are loving right now, and we think you will too!

December: Give Yourself the Gift of Better Slumber
The holiday season can be stressful, and the most important thing we can give ourselves is sleep-- hey, they don't call it beauty sleep for nothing! Here some beautiful products to help you look like you had a full 8 hours.

It's official: You have found yourself with only a few gifts and still have names that have yet to be crossed off the list. You have to now choose gifts that are easy to find because ordering online at this point could be risky. Check out these amazing little goodies that can be found in your local drugstore or department store. Put the single items together, or take inspiration from our suggested gift pairings and create a one-of-a kind- gift she's sure to love!

 

 

MAC Softsparkle Eye Pencils are five mini-sized pencils for use on the eyes. Includes three Softsparkle Pencils in Peacocked, Mint and Olive, and Chocolight, and two Eye Pencils in Black Funk and Fab Orchid in a glossy red-orange patent cylinder-shaped gift box with a lift-off lid. We love this little gift set and know that whoever recieves it would use it for a long time! $ 22, macys.com

 

 

 

L'Oreal Infallible Lipstick is one we love because it looks and applies just like a lipstick. The no-fail formula stays on lips all day and the moisturizing topcoat keeps lips looking and feeling smooth. Pick up a few of these, tie them up in a bow, put them into a gift bag with her favorite beverage and your gift is sure to be a hit. $11.99, drugstore.com  

 

 

Pantene Pro-V Nourishing Moisture Replenishing Mask will give her incentive to nourish those locks she's been torturing with all of the heat styling she does. Wrap this up with a cute hair accessory and a gift certificate to pay for her next cut or blowout-- trust us...she'll love it! $3.59, drugstore.com 

 

 

 

philosophy Jump Starter Kit includes everything she'll need to get her skin back on track. We love Purity Made Simple for it's once-step cleansing abilities (it even removes mascara!), and its amazing smell. Hope in a Jar  and Hope In a Tube keeps our skin looking dewy and youthful without ever feeling too greasy. The Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash will slough of the dry dead cells that make skin look dull. You'll find this at your local philosphy beauty counter and online, $55, at beauty.com

 

Garnier Fructis Style Brilliantine Shine Glistening Drops really helps to give our hair the shine and managability that we crave from hair products. It tames frizz and flyaways and works on wet or damp hair. She will love, Love, LOVE the way her hair looks after she uses it, as well as the uplifting citrus scent that is amazing, and you'll love the very small price tag! Pair this up with some sparkly bangles or chandelier earrings so she will shine her way into 2009. $4.29, drugstore.com

 

 

Burt's Bees Tips n' Toes Hand & Feet Kit is perfect if she loves to pamper herself, but has trouble finding long periods of time to do it in. We enjoy many of Burt's products, and find this kit to have so many great treats in it that we make time to use these. When we can't, they are small enough to fit into a purse, so a mid-day cuticle treatment is never too far away. $12.99, burtsbees.com

 

 

Benefit Bathina Body So Fine Balm is a favorite little luxury to have right out of the shower. We love this moisture-rich balm that leaves our skin luminescent and soft. Applying it with the body puff makes it an extra special product to have. The silky finish is flirty and totally irresistible, leaving skin smelling and looking absolutely incredible! Find it at your local Benefit counter or boutique. $30, macys.com

The holiday season can be stressful, and the most important thing we can give ourselves is sleep-- hey, they don't call it beauty sleep for nothing! Why not give yourself or a loved one products that offer a restful slumber, or at least help you look like you had a full 8 hours. Let's check out some beautiful products that help aid in a better night's sleep and repair, relax, renew and soothe.

 

 

 

 

Crabtree & Evelyn Soothing Body Lotion moisturizes skin with shea butter and relaxes with a calming essential oil blend of lavender and rosewood, tonka, chamomile, vanilla and violet leaf. Skin is most receptive to moisturizing products at night, so one that does so, and helps us relax is a must-have! $25, crabtreeandevelyn.com  

 

 

Molton Brown Relaxing Yuan Zhi Sleep Mist is a favorite among many of us beauty editors, and for good reason! It encourages great sleep with essential oils of lavender, bergamot and ylang-ylang. It's relaxing just thinking about it... $44, spalook.com

 

 

 

Lavender Naturopatch combines the soothing scents of lavender, chamomile and jasmine in a patch to help you unwind and ease you into sleep. We like the idea of a convenient, take-anywhere patch that travels easily, leaving us with no worries about spilled oils or creams! $15, beautorium.com

 

 

 

Space NK Relaxing Candle not only soothes our senses, but the combination of patchouli, rosewood, lavender, and vetiverre help to focus our attention on beginning to wind down from the day. $58, spacenk.com

 

 

 

 

Bath & Body Works Dream Bath in Black Chamomile creates a luxurious bubble bath that really gives our achey, tired bodies no choice but to relax. $16.50, bathandbodyworks.com

 

 

 

 

 

RareMinerals Skin Revival Treatment treats skin to yummy nourishing ingredients like vitamins A and C as well as a host of botanical extracts. This skincare treatment delivers clearer, brighter, smoother-looking skin during sleep, so even if 4 hours of sleep was had, they'll look like they had 8! $60, sephora.com

 

 

Clinque All About Eyes is a best seller because it gives the delicate eye area the appearance of having a good night sleep everynight. You'll never have to wake up looking puffy-eyed, and makeup will go on smoother because the skin is smooth and moisturized. from $28.50, sephora.com 

 

 

 

Philosophy Save Me will treat your skin while you sleep! Rest easy as your skin is nourished with vitamin C to brighten skin tone, retinol to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and clogged pores, and antioxidants to protect skin. $60, beauty.com  

 

 

 

 

L'Oreal Skin Genesis Intensive Night Complex will help strengthen and give skin a more even tone by helping collagen production and giving skin much-needed hydration. It's light-weight and smells amazing! We can't believe a drugstore brand can do a just as good of a job as some more expensive brands that give the same claims, but trust us, it does! $19.99, drugstore.com

Scarlett Johansson and the stars of the new movie The Spirit have been quite busy promoting the movie all over Europe for the past week or so. At the London premiere, Scarlett looked primed and ready for spring in a gorgeous floral print dress and soft, pretty makeup to complement it.

For a look like hers, we decided to put together a list of products to help you create a similar using the line that Scarlett is a spokesmodel for: L'Oreal. Not only does the brand produce fabulous products, but they are all priced to be wallet-friendly!

 

 

 

Color Juice Stick in a mauve-pink tone like Mango Tango will give your lips beautiful sheer lipcolor that feels like a lipstick but has the shine of a gloss. $9.50, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

Bare Naturale Blush in a color like Bare Honey will add a perfect warm "flushed" tone to your cheeks that isn't too overdone for the soft look you might want to achieve. $15.25, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

Wear Infinite Eyshadow Duo in Mocha Buff contains a light pearly shade that will help make eyes pop! We love the smooth application and the long-lasting wear that this eyeshadow gives. $5.25, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

 

Telescopic Precision Liquid Eyeliner in Carbon Black is the perfect way to create that timeless cat-eye look. $9.99, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

Double Extend Beauty Tubes Mascara in Black finishes the look by creating dramatic, look-at-me lashes. This new mascara has become one of our favorites. $10.95 drugstore.com

It's the second week of December, how are you doing with your holiday shopping? If you are like us, there are still some people you haven't shopped for. Finding the best gifts for them is priority #1, so we are here, as always, to recommend some great beauty-inspired gifts!

Take a look:

 

 

Pixi Lumi Lux Eye Palette has 20 gorgeous, blendable eyeshadows that is sure to wow your recipient! Palettes not only keep everything in one place, but it also is great for travel. Another plus: this one gives a plethora of options without taking up any extra space. $38, target.com

 

 

Essie Winter Collection features colors that were inspired by the fashions that were shown on the runways of NY Fashion week for the Fall/Winter 2008 season. With names like Damsel in a Dress and Sexy Divide, any fashionista will appreciate this very wearable and versatile set of six polishes. $26.99, amazon.com

 

 

 

Smashbox Ultimate Beauty Palette is the one that will leave  whoever gets this, speechless. This amazing palette has so many eyeshadows, lip and face colors that we were shocked at the price! So we all added this on to our list of most-wanted beauty goodies this year, and all we can do is hope that we will get it! $59.00, ulta.com

 

 

Dr. Brandt Microdermabrasion Body will polish and soften skin with aluminum oxide crystals, leaving even the driest areas of the body (elbows, knees, and feet) well moisturized. We think this makes a great gift simply because taking care of skin on our entire body is just a s important as taking care of the skin on our face! $45, sephora.com

 

 

 

Sonia Kashuk Glamified Brush Set is a must-have for any gal that needs quality makeup brushes. This inexpensive set features every basic brush needed to help create a flawless face and a great brush case for keeping the brushes in at home or while traveling. $19.99, target.com

 

 

 

 

Crabtree & Evelyn Skin Polishing Ritual is and all natural Asian beauty secret that blends exfoliating spices with rich tropical oils to smooth and polish skin to satin-y smoothness. Contains revitalizing lemon and coriander essential oils and conditioning mango seed butter, avocado and coconut. We feel relaxed just thinking about this wonderful, customizable skin soother. $49.50, crabtree-evelyn.com

 

 

 

Hourglass Vol.6 Eye & Lip Palette in Zodiac is a luxurious compact that not only looks chic, but is beautifully functional. Features four silky shadows that can be worn wet or dry, alone or layered, and two pretty glosses that will make lips look and feel fabulous! Includes a double-ended eye and lip applicator and is housed in a 360 swivel compact with rotating mirror to adjust to application needs. $58, sephora.com

With office parties, holiday parties and New Year's Eve added to your already-busy schedule of lunches with BFF's, sports practices, family dinners and playdates, it's no wonder the holiday season gets hectic!

Thankfully, you can still get glam hair for each event or occasion in no time. Start with dry hair, a flat iron and a styling product and you can create virtually any style, from sleek and straight to romantic waves and bouncy curls. We like the new Sedu Revolution Professional Nano Touramline Ionic Styler ($139.95, folica.com) with its unique curved edge plates that give you more flexibility and control for creating a multitude of looks.

 

 

 

 

 

For that office party, you want to look fabulous, and all you need is a quick refresher to look your best. Style your hair in the morning and touch it up later for a chic, polished look to keep you looking great throughout the evening.

*Set the styling iron to desired heat.

*Section hair into four sections and focus on one at a time.

*Take a one-inch section of dry hair and place in between the plates starting at the roots.

*Run the hair through the iron in a straight downward motion to the tip.

*Spritz with a light-hold hair spray like Bumble and Bumble Spray de Mode (from $15, bumbleandbumble.com) to lock-in the look all night!

 

 

 

Who doesn't want to look great while ringing in the New Year? Do it in style with sultry, natural looking curls. Here's how to create soft and bouncy curls perfect for your big night out:

 

*Work a tiny bit of mousse (try Warren-Tricomi Salon Mousse, $17, beauty.com) into hair to provide additional volume and hold.

*Take a one-inch section of dry hair and wrap it once around the bottom iron.

*Roll the styler as you run it through the length of your hair.

 

 

Be the center of attention at all of your holiday parties! Create silky, bombshell hair that's big on body:

*Take a one-inch section of dry hair and place in between the plates starting at the roots. 

*Run the styler through each sections vertically and twist out at the tips.

*For even more body flip head over and spritz volumizing hair spray (try Herbal Essences Body Envy Volumizing Hair Spray, $3.59, drugstore.com).

 

 

 

Wow your in-laws at that family dinner with beautiful, natural-looking waves. Sedu's lightweight design makes it easy to create waves and its adjustable heat feature makes it the perfect tool for any hair type.

 

*Take a one-inch section of dry hair and wrap it once around the  bottom iron .

*Run the styler through hair rolling outward once.

*Spray hair with texturizing spray like Oscar Blandi Tocco Finale Sculpting Pomade, $22, folica.com, for a piecier look.

 

 

 

There are plenty of products that we will always be loyal to and purchase over and over again, and those we will come to know for a brief time and decide to move on from. We come to know, and love, new and newly discovered products every day and will continue to do so in the future. It's a never-ending cycle of falling in, and sometimes out, of love with products, but we wouldn't be who we are if we didn't enjoy the thrill of it all! These are the products we are loving right now, and we think you will too!

 

 

Beckham Signature For Her is an amazing fragrance from Victoria Beckham, the woman who oozes fashion and style. We were surprised that we loved this one as much as we did, simply because we have been disappointed by previous celebrity fragrances, but this one delivered, and we can't get enough! $52, macys.com 

  

 

 

Dermalogica Solar Defense Booster SPF 30 is a fabulous way for us to add broad-spectrum protection to any of our moisturizers or foundation. We know the importance of sunscreen, and keeping our skin looking its best, so this is one of our new must-haves! It also contains green tea and Vitamin E, essential antioxidants. $43, spalook.com

 

 

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream is a classic product that is proving to us why is is sticking around. This unique cream smooths away rough spots anywhere on the body, and is also fabulous for treating those dry cuticles. $27.57, cosmeticmall.com  

 

 

 

Bliss The Youth As We Know It Eye Cream is our must-have eye cream of the moment! To us, a good eye cream is worth every penny if it can keep us waking up to puff-free, bright eyes each morning. This one does that and with a beautifully light scent to boot! $75, blissworld.com 

 

 

 

Soap & Glory Scrub Your Nose In It gives our skin a fresh healthy glow after we use it. We love this minty not-too-harsh scrub! It works fabulously on keeping our skin clean and even fights off the oil production for a time. The cute pink packaging attracted us, but it's the actual product keeps us coming back for more. $12.99, target.com

 

 

 

Max Factor Vivid Impact Eyeshadow Duos give us highly pigmented, long-lasting eyeshadows in a two-for-one tube. The wand allows for precise application, but can easily be blended with a brush or smudged with a sponge. $7.22, drugstore.com

We have heard so many great things about the new David Babaii for WildAid haircare line, that we can't wait to try it out ourselves! Fortunately, we can already see at least one product gives great results.

Reese Witherspoon wore a fabulous mane of waves at the CMA Awards thanks to hairstylist David Babaii himself. Using David Babaii for WildAid Bohemian Beach Spray, he sprayed and scrunched the product into her hair giving it the right texture and movement.

Only using a blowdryer and his hands, David "rough dried" Reese's hair, and as he described it, "moved the hair in various directions until it was dry."

 

To get Reese's hair to look perfectly tousled, Babaii also made partial waves with a curling iron. "I wrapped small sections around the curling iron barrel, leaving the ends free. When the whole head was done, I ran my fingers through her strands to get a dramatic wild finish," he says.

David Babaii for WildAid Bohemian Beach Spray, $12, drugstore.com

We all have a friend or family member (or maybe even you) who is crazy about makeup and beauty, but is also concerned about the environment. Chances are, she wants products that are naturally-derived or plant based, and will help her live the healthiest, greenest life. So, to show her you care about her and her concerns, take a look at some of these fabulous natural and organic gift ideas.

 

 

 

Zoya Nail Polish will keep her moving toward being more natural, without giving up her glamorous side! Any color that you feel would suit her, Zoya has and then some. Regardless of the color choice, these polishes contain none of the harsh chemicals found in traditional nail polish. They go on beautifully, and dry fast-- who can resist that? Nail color pictured: Blair, a rich elderberry metallic. $6, zoya.com

 

 

Farmaesthetics Rainwater Soaps are beautiful, gentle and lightly fragranced soaps made from melted snow (frozen rain) collected from Winter to early Spring then carefully filtered and mixed with 100% pure, natural ingredients. Each variety is prepared  by hand, in seasonal batches, with a combination of olive oil, palm oil and coconut oils. Seasonal herbs such as comfrey root, rose petals and dried calendula flowers are added to create unique textures, colors and benefits. Our favorite is Aloe and Lemongrass. from $8.20, amazon.com

 

 

 

Caudalie Spa in A Box includes goodies like a body scrub, hand and nail cream, and shower gel that are all created to nurture dull, tired skin. We all love having spa days, but staying home can be just as good, and imagine how thankful she will be knowing she doesn't have to pollute the air driving to some out-of-the-way spa to be pampered. $68, sephora.com 

  

 

 

Ojon "Try Me" Kit contains everything she will need to restore her dry damaged hair, naturally. Ojon oil, that comes from the rainforests of Central America and helps support the Tawira tribe where the oil comes from, is so deeply restorative and good for the hair. We were blown away at how beautiful and soft our hair was after just one use, and love that we help support a group of people just by purchasing the products. $45, beauty.com 

 

 

 

LAVANILA The Healthy Lip Shine Trio is the perfect way to treat those dry lips in a natural way. Free of chemical ingredients that can dry out lips, these high-shine glosses deliver 30 antioxidants, vitamins and amino acids to protect, nurture and hydrate--- now that's healthy! $30, sephora.com 

 

 

 

 

Rain Africa Avocado Bath Salts Basket is a beautiful idea when you know your recipient loves to indulge in a soothing bath to revitalize and focus her mind. This bathroom basket, lovingly handcrafted by 200 women in a village in South Africa, is filled with wild-harvested herbal bath salts that will help moisturize her skin as she soaks. $34, beautorium.com  

 

 

Juice Beauty Organics To Go Kit has everything for cleansing, brightening, helping to smooth and firm, and provide essential vitamins and antioxidants for healthy, radiant skin. We think she will enjoy the travel-friendly sizes so she can take it where ever she goes! Includes a bonus organic bamboo face cloth. $29, beautorium.com 

The holidays are upon us, and you may have a party or two to attend. Look to the red carpet for ideas on how to create your holiday look.

We were inspired by Charlize Theron's elegant, yet strong, look (created by Dior makeup artist Shane Paish) at last month's Rock the Kasbah event, we had to find out how it was done!

 

 

 

Shane used Dior Airflash Spray Foundation to create the base of the look.  This spray foundation will change the way you makeup your face. The fine texture creates a soft radiance that will leave you looking flawless and glowing. $60, dillards.com

 

 

 

 

Using Dior 5-Colour Eye Shadow  (Paish used Elegante), he added drama and color to her eyes. We love eyeshadow palettes like this one because there are so many options! Use the lighter shades for day and add the darker shades to turn the drama up a notch for night! $54, dillards.com 

 

 

 

Dior Crayon Eyeliner in Black along lash line added just the right amount of definition to her eyes. We love pencil eyeliners because, unlike a liquid liner, they allow for so much control and are great if you have little experience with using eyeliner. This one also includes a smudger for softening the line and creating a more smoky result. $25, sephora.com

 

 

 

Paish used DiorShow Unlimited Mascara in Black to complete the eye look. When it comes to eye makeup, we all agree that mascara is the must-have product! DiorShow Unlimited will give your lashes a look-at-me, long-lash effect with its dual-sided brush. $24, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

Dior Backstage Pro Cheeks in Hip Peach gave Ms.Theron her perfectly glowing cheeks. This cream formula blush creates natural-looking, long-lasting color and blends to a sheer, beautiful finish. $30, nordstrom.com 

 

 

 

 

Dior High Shine Lipstick was the final complement for this elegant look. This designed-for-the-runway lipstick is ultra-glossy and long-wearing, making it a great choice if you want to try a lipstick but usually opt for a gloss. $25, dillards.com   

It's that time of year again, and there is nothing worse than not havng a plan of action in regards to what you want to get for those you love. If you're like most of us, you want to get that perfect gift, but don't want to spend too much. Let us help give you some ideas before you head out to brave the stores-- be inspired by these wallet-friendly gift ideas!

 

 

 

 

Urban Decay Book of Shadows Palette is the largest (and most unique) palette Urban Decay has ever offered. This limited-edition palette features a pull-out drawer containing sixteen eyeshadows, two premium brushes, and a travel-size Eyeshadow Primer Potion! Can you imagine the amount of different looks that could be created with this one palette? Wow. $45, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

Benefit 24k Sexy Gold Set features a sheer gold 24k lipstick and a complementing, golden loose powder that can be used as an eyeshadow or as highlighter for her cheekbones. This set will certainly make her feel like a million bucks! We love the fact that this chic gift comes in its own clutch, perfect for future use. $34, benefit.com

 

 

 

DuWop KissCase promises to give soft, shiny, full lips with this special collection of lip products. Housed in a zip-up pouch, this set would be perfect for the gal that loves lip products that give her lips the best look. Available in pink or nude. $35, beauty.com

 

 

 

 

 

Bliss The Sock-ettes are the best treat for over-worked feet! Give yourself or a loved one an excuse to take a time-out to give those tootsies a break. In just twenty minutes, your feet will be moisturized, softened and pampered with olive oil, grapeseed oil, and vitamin E (all found in the self-activated lining). We think our feet would love these... $48, blissworld.com

  

 

 

 

M·A·C Fascinating Ruby, Smoky Eyes palette will give your makeup-loving friend or family member a glamorous gift that she can use all year! This simple, easy to use palette, from the Passions of Red Holiday Collection, features the 6 perfect shdes to create a smoky eye effect that works for many occasions. Includes eye brush 213SE. $38, nordstrom.com  

 

 

 

 

Smashbox Travel Brush Collection is the perfect gift to give to both the brush newbie and brush pro. This limited-edition collection features five travel-size brushes in a take-along quilted pouch. They not only will travel well, but will work brilliantly for everyday use. $49, nordstrom.com 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Clinique Black Honey Glow Set will not only give a low-maintenance gal the best-selling Almost Lipstick-- that is sheer and beautiful on everyone-- but also a Shimmering Tones Bronzer and High Impact Mascara, perfect for creating a beautiful, no-fuss look. $42.50, sephora.com  

As the weather cools down, we find ourselves facing a dilemma: dry skin. For many of us, it is a never ending battle to keep our skin hydrated and nourished, especially in the Fall and Winter seasons. Finding an adequate moisturizer can be difficult, and unless you've already found your must-have product, it may seem like an overwhelming task to go out in search of relief-- there are so many products to choose from! Thankfully, you are in the right place, read on for our list of body lotions and creams that are sure to give you the soft comfortable skin you desire.

 

Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Daily Therapeutic Lotion is fragrance free and gives skin therapeutic moisture that last all day. This moisture-rich formula helps turn even the driest, roughest skin into soft, smooth skin. We love it because it absorbs quickly and never feel greasy. $8.49, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

L'OCCITANE Shea Butter comes from 100% plant-based origin, and has developed an amazing following because it works! This deep moisturizer nourishes skin, helping to heal any dry patches on elbows, knees, hands or feet. It works great even if you have sensitive skin or eczema, and another added plus: you can use it as a conditioning treatment for your hair! from $8, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

Bliss Lemon + Sage Body Butter is one of our favorites! It is not only antioxidant-enriched, but this body butter lifts our mood with it's citrus scent and is able to make us forget we ever had dehydrated skin. from $12, blissworld.com

 

 

 

 

 

Bioelements Vitalization gives the skin on our body the same treatment we give to our faces with skin-loving nutrients and botanical oils. While wrapping skin in a natural, soothing fragrance, this thick moisturizing cream replenishes lost moisture and gives skin increased elasticity and suppleness. We love that it helps give our just-shaved legs a boost of moisture without irritation. $49.50, spalook.com

 

 

 

 

 

Fresh SugarBath Lemon Body Lotion is one our go-to body moisturizers because of it's lightweight feel and oh-so-yummy scent. The real brown sugar contained in this lotion makes us feel like we're really indulging in a sweet treat, but without the calories! $28, beauty.com

 

 

 

 

 

Nature's Gate Organics Ultra-Hydrating Body Lotion is rich in nutrients of certified organic fruit extracts and botanicals, and offers a unique complex of essentials for a "well-balanced diet" for your skin. this ultra-hydrating also contains a complex of vitamins E, C and A, is non-greasy, quick absorbing and helps retain moisture throughout the day. $9.99 drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

Sephora BODY Super Supreme Body Butter will leave you feeling smooth all over. We love the luxurious feeling it gives us--- like we spent a fortune, but really didn't! The scent is so light, it won't interfere with any other scent you might want to wear for the day, and you just might find the man in your life using it on his dry skin when you're not looking. from $15, sephora.com

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  Terri Seymour looked so amazing at the 30th anniversary Carousel of Hope Ball a couple of weekends ago, we couldn't help but be a little envious of her flawless-looking skin and luminous glow! We had to get the inside scoop for you on how to achieve this look:

 

Makeup artist Melissa Walsh used products by Hourglass Cosmetics to achieve Terri's beautiful look:

 

 

 

Veil Fluid Makeup Oil Free SPF 15 gave Terri a flawless complexion while it also treated it with collagen-building ingredients to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles. We love the pump-style tube that keeps our makeup fresh and free from bacteria. $60, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

 

Veil Invisible Powder was used to set the foundation while adding a natural, bright glow. This sheer powder helps keep makeup looking amazing all day and is fabulous for any skintone- it has quickly become one of our favorite products! $32, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Color Link Palette in Dusk was used to give Terri's eyes an added a pop of dark shimmer (don't they look amazing?). This palette features six eye colors and two blushes, making it a great tool that we love to use for creating a plethora of makeup looks. $75, sephora.com

It's not only the leaves that change with the season, beauty evolves into a deeper hued daily ritual with the addition of spicier scents, shades and angles. Soft, shiny hair is loosened and worn low with a bend, caressing cheeks and shoulders. Trends this year mimic those of the '80s with a splash of '40s femme. Beauty is sophisticated and luxurious. Some easy additions to pull off this year's Fall-Winter transition include:

Black Orchid by Tom Ford

This decadent scent wafts with sex, smoke, spice and sweetness which are synonymous with the design of Tom Ford. My immediate reaction was to keep smelling my wrist after the initial spray. It's one of those rare scents you occasionally encounter in passing and irresistibly are drawn to. The perfect fragrance to warm up the atmosphere during a chilly day or night.

Tarte Eye Couture Day-To-Night Eye Palette

Black as night shadow has been adorning the lids of celebrities and transforming their summer shades into a more mysterious vamp. Classic examples include Anne Hathaway and the ever so sunny Katherine Heigl. Their dramatic eyes are not as easy as just a brush of darkness. Quality of texture and pigment are key to achieving a smooth application of drama and the deep shades are never allowed to venture too far past the crease. This palette includes one of the best brushes I've seen in a ready made collection. This combo of smoky midnights and sheer cool pale shades are ideal for highlighting your more innocent side during the day and for releasing the vixen as evening falls!

Hot Tools Professional Spring 1 inch Curling Iron

Big beautiful curls are all the rage in this season's sophisticated femme styles. Keep your roots with minimal volume while creating a cascading brushed curl around face and throughout hair's length. Best way to achieve this kind of girly glam is to use a 1 inch curling iron around the sides and back of head twisting hair loosely around iron in both directions.

HairDo by Ken Paves

But what if you are still sporting last season's bob? Have no worry, HairDo is quite possibly one of the easiest ways to add on hair. Yes, in one piece, and I cannot tell you how real it looks! Watch the video before you say nay, you will not believe the simplicity!

Biore Daily Recharging Enliven Eye Cooling Gel

With chillier temperatures, we welcome dry heat into our homes which causes us to wake up puffy eyed and with dry skin and hair. A partial remedy for this beauty blunder is to invest in a humidifier or leave a pot of water near your heating device (do not leave it near electric heat). But it's not a sure fix and we need an added boost to help. This gel works gently and effectively at combating the under eye bag, and it feels absolutely invigorating.

John Frieda Frizz-Ease Crème Serum Overnight Repair Formula

If frizz and dryness are a part of your wardrobe this season, choose an overnight hair repair like John Frieda's. Apply it to dry hair at night and wake up to smoother healthier hair in the morning. And don't worry- it doesn't leave residue on your pillowcase!

Sephora by OPI in Caffeine Fix

If you can grow your nails long and still function in your daily tasks, so be it, ladies. Long, rounded and violet is this season's nail trend. A grape-inspired polish is definitely making a statement- so keep them shiny, on the deeper side and chip-free. My favorite long wearing shade is from Sephora by OPI. The rich coffee-inspired shade is perfectly plum.

Urban Decay Lipstick in Trainwreck and Sellout

Moist, matte shades are painting this season's lips. The hottest shades include cranberry, fire- inspired and deep earth brown. Urban Decay lipsticks in Trainwreck and Sellout are a must-have for all intense purposes! Color lasts, stays creamy and within its defined lines.

Kerastase Specifique Bain Divalent Balancing Shampoo Oily Roots-Sensitised Lengths

Hands down, the hottest new product. If you color or highlight your hair, you know you're not supposed to wash it daily because the color fades and the ends get dry. If you skip a day, your roots become a greasy separating fortress of darkness that nobody, including yourself, wants to touch. I've tried it and this shampoo works at getting you that second day and imparts a superior shine with all of its specified balancing. (available 11/10)

Clairol Perfect 10 Hair Color by Nice & Easy

Perfect 10 delivers head turning hair color in a lustrous easy to use formula. In fact, your new rich wintry shade is achieved in as little as 10 minutes. A selection of 20 super shiny shades to choose from without the time and money spent at a salon. The applicator and "smart" color technology make it a foolproof way to achieve your new shade for the season.
 

No Frizz by Living Proof

It seems enough of us have cried to the hair gods to eliminate our frizz and static! These godly beings or more suitably named scientists have created the most advanced product to control our strands in 30 years. Living Proof is a weightless, PolyfluoroEster material that creates a surface on hairs that eliminates water absorption, repels dirt and oil, creates a bright shine, eliminates any sort of frizz and smoothes out the rough edges that cause coarseness and electric snaps. It is beyond amazing!




--

With Summer now a memory, there is no reason to have to sacrifice your beautiful sun-kissed glow!  We're not saying you have to spend hundreds of dollars baking in a tanning bed, or having someone else spray-tan you to keep it; we're suggesting that you consider using fabulous, low-cost products that will give you the look of being "kissed" by the sun, but in a more realistic, subtle way that is perfect for the upcoming Fall and Winter seasons.

 

Vaseline Healthy Body Glow Daily Replenishing Moisturizer & Touch of Self Tanner works to give a buildable, healthy glow to your skin, while moisturizers keep it feeling soft. Unlike other self-tanning lotions, this one absorbs quickly and doesn't contain mineral oil. $6.99, drugstore.com

 

 

 

St. Tropez Auto-Bronzante Lotion is a more luxurious way to get glowing at home. This self tanning lotion intensifies after 3 hours and leaves a natural, streak-free finish that won't leave you looking like an Oompa Loompa. $37, drugstore.com 

 

 

 

By Terry VIP Bronze Expert Sun Glow Perfecting Brush contains all-natural pigment that will give your face beautiful color without any self-tanning ingredients. You control where and how much color is used, and the purse-friendly packaging allows for touch-ups throughout the day! $48, sephora.com

 

 

 

Mystic Tan Sunless Face and Body Tanning Spray brings the salon-quality tan you expect from the famous company in the privacy of your home! The alcohol-free formula applies evenly over your face or body, and ensures your skin stays hydrated so it will look its best. $38, sephora.com

 

 

 

L'Oreal Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Lotion is unlike any sunless tanner you may have ever used. This easy-to-apply (and transparent!) formula is long-lasting, and gives a great result whether you choose the Medium or Deep version. $9.49, drugstore.com

  

 

Physicians Formula Organic Wear Liquid Bronzer is available in three formulas, fair, light and medium, and is great for a gorgeous glow that is Certified Organic. Soy helps even out skin tone while all natural ingredients keep your skin nourished.  $6.57, drugstore.com

---

Eyebrows like Jennifer Connelly are the perfect example of how arches have an effect on the rest of the face.

You can define your brows easily by coloring them in with an eyebrow pencil or powder. Using light strokes, fill in the sparse areas of the brow with the pencil or a brow brush. Make the brows look natural by combing through them to distribute the color evenly.

 

 

 

 

Anastasia All About Brows Kit contains everything you need to create your perfect face-framing brows. This set includes Tweezers, Brow Powder Duo, four Brow Stencils, Duo Angle/Spooley Brush, Brow Gel, and an Eye Lights highlighting pencil. Everything in this kit works wonderfully, and the instructions are so easy to follow. Not sure which color to choose? We find the Medium Ash works on all skintones. $75, sephora.com

 

 

No matter how busy we might be, every morning we go through our beauty routine, and it involves many products, brushes, sponges and such. Our advice? Save precious minutes with the latest packaging trend: time-saving roll-on products.

 

Sue Devitt E-Z Eye Rollerball contains highly pigmented eyeshadow that glides on perfectly to give your eyes a beautiful sheen of color to make them pop! You can even keep it in your purse to for easy day-to-night makeup transitions. Available in 9 shades. $18, amazon.com 

 

By Terry VIP Skin-Expert Peace & Glow is formulated with active ingredients that instantly give your skin a boost of circulation so you look refreshed and relaxed. $65, barneys.com

Joey Pure Pores Roll-On Blemish Fix is an all-natural way to treat the acne you may have on-the-go. Apply the clear liquid throughout the day to help rid yourself of those blemishes even more quickly. $22, beauty.com

 

 

Garnier Skin Renew Anti-Puff Eye Roller helps relieve under-eye puffiness and treats dark circles to give the appearance of brighter, more radiant eyes. Pro-Vitamin B5 refreshes and hydrates the delicate eye area. $12.99, walgreens.com

 

Lorac Double Feature delivers correction to give your the even look you desire. Cover undereye circles and hide blemishes with this oil-free, long-wearing concealer stick, then blend in with the blender ball. $24, sephora.com 

 

Tarte Lock & Roll Creaseless Eyeshadow Duo gives a new "twist" on the makeup artist trick of layering a loose shadow over a cream shadow. The roller ball contians a loose powder and glides easily over cream shadow to lock color in and add luminosity so color lasts all day! $17, sephora.com

Vera Wang Princess Perfect Pair is two products in one! On one end, Vera's best-selling Princess fragrance in a rollerball dispenser, and on the other a pretty pink lipgloss that will leave you lips feeling moisuturized and looking perfectly glossy. $25, sephora.com

 

Philosophy Amazing Grace Concentrated Perfume Oil is the ultimate must-have item for all Grace devotees! Now you can roll-on the amazing clean and infinitely feminine scent of Philosophy's best-selling fragrance. Perfect for the girl on the go, this roll-on fragrance makes it easier than ever to take Grace wherever you go. $25, sephora.com

What are the hottest colors to add to your wardrobe this season? Purples and plums! And makeup companies have considered this when creating the"newest, hottest, latest" in their product lines. They've looked at the popular trend, and are offering their mascaras in this eyecolor-enhancing hue. We are excited to see some of our favorite mascaras available in this gorgeous new shade, and urge you to try them out for yourself this season.

 

 

 

Dior Diorshow in Plum is exclusive to Sephora, in stores and online, and still offers the same show-stopping drama to your lashes! This best-selling mascara formula volumizes, lengthens, defines and doesn't clump or flake. $24, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

 

L'Oreal Panoramic Curl Extreme Curl & Separating Mascara in Plum Plum offers users the benefit of curling and separating lashes to create the ultimate eye-opening results. Removes easily with soap and water, and is suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. $8.95, drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

Borghese Superiore Mascara in Prima Plum promises to give nourishment and moisture to lashes while it creates superior thickness. Features built-in silk-powder foundation for long wearing results. $19 beauty.com

 

 

 

 

 

Awake Stardom Escalate Lash Mascara in Plum Escalation features a curved wand to enhance your lash curl, while the formula works to give natural-looking volume.  $23, beauty.com

 

 

 

 

 

Benefit BADgal Plum Mascara is the newest in the BADgal family, and offers its users the opportunity to experience the fullest, knock 'em dead lashes with this eye enhancing shade! $19, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

 

Lancome Fatale Mascara in Amethyste Envoutante is a new mascara that claims to boost spectacular performance with a patented 3D comb that gives exceptional filling power from first application. The super coating formula delivers a fine, strong mesh on lash to plump it up. $27, strawberrynet.com

 

 

 

 

Jane Iredale Longest Lash Mascara in Ripe Plum was designed for the risk-taking woman. Formulated with Algae Extract and Beeswax to condition the lashes and keep them healthy. The formula creates amazing length and thickness in addition to adding s a certain allure and drama to your eyes. skinbotanica.com

Summer has come to an end but that doesn't mean you should put away the sunscreen. With all we do to get (and keep) younger-looking skin, a broad-spectrum sunscreen should be the one thing (among others) we don't leave the house without wearing. Protecting your skin is the most important thing you can do to prevent premature aging.

This simple, yet overlooked, cosmetic step can become second nature with these products:

 

Kinesys SPF 30 Spray Sunscreen is an alcohol-free spray that dries quickly and never left a greasy feel. This works fabulously if you plan to outdoors working in the garden or taking a long run, but works just as good for an "around town" day of errands. 1oz., $6, 4oz., $18, kinesys.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kinesys SPF 30 Sun Protection Stick is a convienient way to add sunscreen to our faces while running out the door. This solid stick is purse-friendly and is easily re-applied throughout the day (just apply it before the afternoon re-touch). $12, kinesys.com

 

 

 

 

 

DDF Protect and Correct UV Moisturizer SPF 15 not only protects our skin from the sun's harmful rays, but treats the hyperpigmentation we may have aquired from past acne or sun exposure. The non-greasy formula absorbs beautifully and leaves our skin looking radiant. $58, sephora.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Peter Thomas Roth Oil-Free Sunblock SPF 30 works amazingly well, especially for those of us with oily skin! It doesn't cause any additional shine and we are left feeling confident our skin is protected. The bonus: Our skin gets treated well because of the antioxidant vitamins, A and E. $26, beauty.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist SPF 30 is the best when it comes to applying sunscreen in hard to reach places. We love the light mist of spray and quick-drying formula that won't clog our pores and is resistant to water and sweat. $9.99 drugstore.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kiss My Face Hot Spots Certified Organic Formula Sunscreen, SPF 30 gives the "green" girl inside of us the satisfaction of knowing that what we are using is natural and contains no weird stuff. With a certified organic base of beeswax, coconut oil, aloe, herbs and wild crafted shea butter this is the perfect choice of sunscreen for our face and lips. $9.19, drugstore.com

 

October is the official month of Breast Cancer Awareness. The entire month is dedicated not only to support those with the disease, but to educate and inform men and women about the importance of early detection, prevention, treatment and more.

Many companies create special "Pink Products" and gift sets that are exclusive to the month and will donate portions of sales to organizations that support this cause. We think this is fabulous! What a great way to show your support and also get something beautiful and pink for doing so!

The following products all help raise money for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF): 

 

 

 

Sephora Pocket Brush Set is an amazing little set of brushed that we all agree are perfectly sized for travel. They already come in a cse, so there's no reason to have to spend more on one! $1 from every set sold will go to the BCRF, Sephora will donate $3 as well! $15, sephora.com 

 

 

 

 

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion is the best-selling moisturizer that miraculously works for all skin types. This limited edition jumbo-sized bottle is equipped with a pump for easy use and comes with collectable Clinique and Pink Ribbon key chain. $10 of each sale will be donated to BCRF. 6.7oz., $35 clinique.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Murad Energizing Pomegranate Lip Protector SPF 15 is not only one of our personal faves for moisturizing and conditioning our lips (not to mention we love the way it leaves them the perfect hint of pink), but this month it is being sold at Sephora in a fabulous new tube. Purchase this must-have lip treatment and 10% of the retail price will be donated to the BCRF. $16.50 sephora.com

 

 

 

 

 

Too Faced Betsy Baby Duo Eyeshadow was created by founder Jarrod Blandino and Sephora Sr. VP of Marketing, Betsy Olum. The beautiful mauve pink and light neutral pink was named Betsy Baby in honor of Betsy's battle and triumph over breast cancer. $9 per sale of Betsy Baby will be directed to BCRF! $17, sephora.com

 

 

 

Ojon Revitalizing Mist is a weightless, pre-stying leave-in conditioner that gives hair amazing softness and shine. This amazing smelling spray works to refresh your hair when you are short on time. It now comes in a pink ribbon box created especially for breast cancer awareness month, and contains the same Ojon oil the company has become known for. 20% of North American sales will be donated to BCRF with a maximum donation of $35,000. 5fl. oz., $26, sephora.com 

 

 

 

Bobbi Brown Pink Ribbon Collection is a set of two fabulous lip products sure to look good no matter your skin tone. Pink Glitter Lip Gloss and the top-selling shade of Tulle Lip Color comes packaged in a pink photographic carton. This would make a great gift! Bobbi Brown will be donating $35,000 in connection with the North American sales of Pink Ribbon Collection to BCRF. $40, nordstrom.com

 

You're willing to scrimp on some things to save money, but not your makeup. So how can you save without giving up your favorite brands? Go online of course!

In the November issue of ShopSmart, the editors checked out more than two dozen beauty sites to find the best ones, screening out sites with bad Better Business Bureau records, no contact information, poor return policies or high shipping fees and ones where items were bundled (Amazon's best cosmetic deals were in multipacks). We've narrowed the list even further to include only our favorites, and we couldn't agree more with the results:

Best Overall Selection: Beauty.com
Shipping: Free if you spend $49 or more.
Return policy: 30 days on unopened products or, for certain items, if you don't like the color. Returns cost $4.99 unless a product is damaged or incorrect or the color is wrong.

Great for Hard-to-Find Products: Beautyhabit.com
Shipping: Free on orders of $100 or more; otherwise $5.95.
Return policy: 14 days on most items. No returns on opened or used products.

Great for Trendy Brands: Beautyofasite.com
Shipping: Free on orders over $75; otherwise $5.95 to $8.95.
Return policy: 30 days. You pay for return shipping unless the product was damaged. All returns are for exchange or store credit only. There are no refunds or returns on color cosmetics.

Best Prices: Buymebeauty.com
Shipping: Free on orders of $35 or more; $4.95 on orders of less than $35.
Return policy: 30 days. Products must be unused and unopened, unless they are defective. You have to call or e-mail before returning products; you will also have to pay the costs of return shipping.

Great Return Policy: Cosmeticmall.com
Shipping: $5.95 plus 93 cents per pound.
Return policy: 30 days. You can return most products for any reason, even after they're opened.

Great Drugstore Makeup Section: Drugstore.com
Shipping: Free on your first nonprescription order of $25 or more; free on orders of $49 or more after that.
Return policy: 30 days. Returns are free if a product is damaged, defective, or incorrect. Returns are free on certain products if you don't like the color. Otherwise, products must be unopened and unused.

Great for Freebies: Sephora.com
Shipping: Free on orders over $50; otherwise $5.95.
Return policy: 60 days. Free return shipping. Store credit after 60 days.

Great for Organic Products: Skinbotanica.com
Shipping: Free on orders over $49; otherwise $5.95.
Return policy: 60 days.

P.S. ShopSmart is a fabulous magazine from the publisher of Consumer Reports. If you're not reading it, you really should be! There ae no ads, only the best reviews for products you want. They break down what is worth your money and what to leave on the shelf.

Fall is the perfect season to discover a new fragrance. It could be one that has been on the market for years or one that has only been around for days. Either way, the scent you choose is a personal choice. 

No matter your preference, floral, oriental or fresh, let your fragrance be an extension of who you are. Consider these selections and you may find something wonderful to add to your fragrance wardrobe.

 

Florals:

 

 

Juicy Couture is a fun, flirty fragrance created for the girl who loves to have fun with fashion, beauty and all things in her life. With notes like watermelon, mandarin, pink passion fruit and marigold, this fruity floral is ideal for wear during the day. $64.99, target.com

 

 

 

 

John Varvatos is a warmer floral, beautifully blended with notes like coriander flower, apricot, plum and golden mandarin. This sophisticated scent is perfect for anyone who loves florals that might be looking for a more grown-up fragrance. from $70, nordstrom.com

 

 

 

 

Christina Aguilera Inspire is a new frangrance boasting notes of mango, citrus and freesia, with accentuated tuberose. This scent is for any woman who loves to be flirty, feminine and daring. from $49, macys.com

 

 

 

 

Oriental:

 

Giorgio Armani Mania takes feminine notes of lily of the valley and peony and combines it with pink spice, cedar and musk to create a fragrance that conveys a sense of sophistication, simplicity and elegance. from $55, sephora.com

 

 

 

Dior Addict combines mandarin leaf, orange blossom, night queen flower, vanilla and sandalwood to indulge it's wearer in a soft yet passionate scent that is perfect for a night out. from $68, dillards.com

 

 

 

Nanette Lepore Shanghai Butterfly is inspired by Thailand, Russia and China. Opening with crisp, exhilarating accords of lush lemon slice and mandarin, the florals and exotic notes of green cedar, Siberian musk, and sandalwood mingle together for a lush, sophisticated fragrance. $42, sephora.com  

 

Fresh: 

 

DKNY Be Delicious is a fresh citrus scent with notes like American apple, cucumber and grapefruit. This fragrance combines the scent of apple with a blend of exotic flowers and sensual woods for a sophisticated smell as individual as it's wearer. from $38, sephora.com

 

 

 

CLEAN Lather combines notes like lemon, orange and green ivy to capture the essence of soft soap lather and fresh-faced, girlish femininity. A delicate scent that blends soapy freshness with purity into a naturally inviting fragrance. from $34, beauty.com

 

 

 

 

L L.A.M.B. is described as a luscious floral scent that bursts with sparkling freshness, then wraps you in the warmth of sensual musks. While also being described as being a fusion of masculine and feminine, this fragrance leans more toward the latter with notes like white freesia, fresh pear and violet leaves. from $25, sephora.com  

 

  

Vanessa Scali, who created the look for America Ferrera, decided on a timeless, sophisticated look inspired by the 50's: an Audrey Hepburn eye, a Vargas mouth and a sheer, radiant face to keep the look modern. All of these elements really helped to enhance the Ugly Betty star's natural beauty. 

Vanessa shared with us her step-by-step routine that helped give America her beautiful look:

Foundation/Concealer:

"I like the skin to look flawless but real so I always use foundations and concealers sparingly. That said, I prefer spot coverage for foundation. On America, I used NARS Balanced Foundation ($41) in Fiji and Barcelona (I mixed two colors for the prefect match). I use a brush to apply it to the areas that need it and then I blend it in with my fingers. Using your fingers heats the product just a bit and leaves a seamless finish.

Then I applied NARS Concealer ($21) under the eyes where necessary."

 

 

 

Contouring:

"I used NARS Bronzing Powder ($29) in Casino to contour her cheekbones and accentuate her bone structure."

 

 

 

 

Cheeks:

"For extra staying power I used a combination of NARS cream and powder blush. This will make your blush last longer and require fewer touchups. First, I applied NARS The Multiple Stick ($37) in Portofino to the apples of the cheeks. Cream formulas are my favorite. They are the easiest to blend and leave the most natural finish.

Then after I used a touch of NARS translucent powder and then I applied NARS Blush ($25) in Orgasm. The combination gave her face a touch of color and a subtle shimmer that left her looking radiant - not made up."

 

 

 

Eyes:

"The eye is sophisticated yet innocent. First I used the NARS Multiple Stick in Copacabana all over the eye lid. Followed by the right hand color in the All About Eve Eyeshadow duo ($32) all over the eye and under the bottom lashes. This layering help gives staying power.

Next, I lined inside the NARS Eyeliner Pencil ($20) in Iceberg (white) to make them look bigger and I lined her eyes (upper lid only) with the NARS Eyeliner Pencil in Moon Black. Because mascara and lashes were very important to define the eye, I curled them and gave them several coats of NARS mascara ($23) in Black Orchid."

 

 

Eyebrows:

 

"I used NARS Brow Pencil ($19) in Ipanema brow pencil to fill in as needed."

 

 

Lips:

 

 

"The lips are bold and semi-matte. I used NARS Semi-Matte Lipstick ($24) in Scarlet Empress."

 

Makeup artist Tina Turnbow was inspired by Mary-Louse Parker's dress, shoes and personal style when she created  this fresh, luminous and femnine look for the actress.

We asked Tina to share with us what products she used and why, and this is what she told us:

 

I used an oil-free moisturizer, eye gel and the NARS Sabrina Lip Balm ($23) to prep the skin for the makeup.

 

 

I started with NARS Balanced Foundation ($41) in Mont Blanc, then applied NARS Concealer ($21) and followed it with NARS Pressed Powder ($29) in Snow. I also applied some of the NARS Foundation Powder ($45) in Mont Blanc to the chest area. We wanted her skin to have a luminous glow. She's so fair and her skin has a very delicate, ivory quality about it that is so pretty.

I have given her a beautiful hot pink lip using NARS Lipliner Pencil ($20) in Funny Face. After I lined and filled in the lips, I blotted and added a hint of powder to set the lipliner. You can use your finger or a Q-tip to achieve this look. Blotting the lips after applying the lipliner created a gorgeous softness to the lips. I wanted most of the color in the center of the lips.

For her cheeks, I used NARS Blush ($25) in Desire and applied it the apple of the cheek. I then used the NARS Blush Brush ($46) to soften the edges of the blush.

 

 

 

For her eyes I used NARS single shadow ($22) in Tibet and for the crease I used the Duo Eyeshadow ($32) in Violetta.

I also used the Eyeliner Pencil ($20) in London on the upper lash and smudged it out to create a soft cat eye. I finished the look using NARS Mascara ($23) in Black Orchid WTPR.

 

 

This season, lips can go bold and beautiful, or nearly nude. Depending on the eye look you want to create, smoky or subtle, consider these products when it's time to perfect your pout.

 

Nude lips, or lips that look as close to your natural color as possible, are always flattering when it comes to lipstick or gloss. Pair these shades with your dramtic eye or natural face.

 

 

 

 

 

L'Oreal Bare Natural in Soft Mauve is not too pink or too brown. This sheer and flattering color gives lips moisture and looks great on most skin tones. $9.95

 

 

 

 

Tarte Double-Ended Lipgloss in Fred and Ginger is a shimmery nude and shimmery champagne color that can be worn separately or together for a glossy, pretty lip. $19

 

 

 

 

 

 

Maybelline Mineral Power Lipcolor in Pink Pearl contains mineral-based pigments that give full impact color! This color works great on fair and darker skintones, making it a fabulous pick. $5.99

 

 

 

 

LORAC Sheer Lipstick in Nude gives lips the perfect hint of pink-beige that will compliment every smoky eye wonderfully. The bonus? This lipcolor will nurture your lips with moisture--perfect for dry, cold weather. $18.50  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Now it's time to give your lips a BOLD edge! Dark lips (even black!) are so in this season. No matter what color you choose, brick red to deep burgundy, make sure your eye makeup is minimal. Skip eyeliner and only use mascara on both upper and lower lashes to make your eyes pop. Be sure to always line your lips as well! Red lipcolors tend to bleed outside tha natural lip line, so choose a liner that is as close you the lipstick shade as possible or choose a neutral tone. Tip: If you're unsure of wearing dark, rich tones on your lips, look for the word "sheer" when choosing a formula.

 

 

 

 

CoverGirl Outlast Smoothwear Lip Liner in Nude goes on smoothly and works fabulously to use before you apply your color because it won't add any extra color. $7

 

 

 

 

 

 

DuWop Reverse Lip Liner can be applied outside the lip line to really ensure you "fence in " your lipcolor. When applied to lips, it fills in lines and helps hold color on longer. $19   

 

 

 

 

Clinique Long Last Soft Shine Lipstick in Red Red Red is formulated to keep that "just applied" look for hours. Great for fair skintones because it won't wash you out like some reds. Won't feather creep, stain or dry out. $14

 

 

 

 

 

Avon Ultra Color Rich Lipstick in Vintage Vamp is the perfect deep plum. Wear this lip color with a sheer pink cheek color for an ultra glam look! $3.25

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tropez Moisturizing Lipstick in Buttered Rum is the perfect dark cranberry color for any occasion. This formula glides on soft and is long-lasting. Give your lips a hint of color or layer it on for a truly bold lip. $0.99

Mary-Kate Olsen really has her messy-on-purpose hairstyles down. We can't help but admire her bohemian-chic, I-didn't-take-any-time-to-do-my-hair-today styles. If this is a look you've been wanting to try, consider these tips before you attempt them.

 

Try a messy style a day after washing. Super clean hair may require the use of more product that can lead to product overload, thus creating a weighed down or greasy look.

 

Leave your brush alone. Styles like these require the use of fingers only...remember, the style should look like you spent five minutes on it, not five hours.

 

 

For super straight hair: Try braiding your hair loosely the night before with slightly damp hair and a light holding styling product to add loose waves to your hair. Try using a product like Frederic Fekkai Wave Spray, $20

 

 

 

 

 

For natural wavy or curly hair: Define existing waves and curls using product on damp hair. Try Terax Styling Gel, $12

 

 

 

Practice creating the messy look. Like all hairstyles, they too require a bit of practice before they look "perfect" (but you know, not perfect).

Most of us wear a smoky eye for evenings beacuse it's simple, and looks amazing. While black will continue to be the traditional color for this look, this season the smoky eye gets an update using grey tones and metallics that can also be worn during the day.

 

Try these products to achieve your new smoky eye:

 

 

 

 

Nars Eyeshadow Duo in Paris is a fabulous combination of two coordinating greys (silver shimmer and matte grey) that can be worn together or alone, wet or dry. Try applying the matte grey shade on the entire lid, and apply the silver shimmer to the eye's inner rim and along the bottom lasheline for a long-wearing, eye-popping look.  $32

 

 

 

 

 

Rimmel Colour Rush Quad Eyeshadow in Smokey Noir includes four grey tones that are long-lasting and versitile. Try using the darker shades as a liner when wearing the lighter tones for a subtle yet defined daytime eye. $5.99

 

 

 

 

 

 

Use Urban Decay Metallic Eyeshadow in Smog (a deep coppery bronze) to help you create the smoldering bronzed eye that was seen on many of the models during the fall runway shows. $16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CoverGirl Eye Enhancers Eye Shadow Trio in Golden Sunset gives three color options to work with that will help you create a number of different looks. For night, try wearing the shimmery colors paired with a sheer berry stained lip. $4.99

 

 

 

 

 

CARGO SmokyEye Eyeliner Duo in Brazil will help you acheive the perfect earth-tone spin on the black smoky eye. These liners combine matching cream and powder eyeliners in a beautiful burnished bronze. Wear the cream formula alone or use the powder formula to set the cream. $28

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

Wet N Wild Kohl Eyeliner Pencil in Charcoal makes defining your eyes smooth and simple. The creamy formula glides on and blends easily. Use this alone with a sheer shadow or as an added product when defining your eyes. $1.49 

 

 

 

 

 

Estee Lauder Perfectionist High Definition Volume Mascara will give you fabulously definied, lengthened and darkened lashes that will perfectly frame your newly smoked out eye. The tapered wand allows for easy application to bottom lashes, and the flake-free formula lasts for hours without smudging. $19.50

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CoverGirl LashBlast is fast becoming the go-to mascara for the fullest, most lush lashes. The clump-free formula bulids lashes to enormous proportions and beautifully adds drama to the smoky eye. $8.50

 

 

 

This season, creating different variations of the classic smoky eye will keep your look fresh and modern, so don't be afraid to experiment! 

 

The MTV Video Music Awards were held this past weekend, and there were many performances and surprises. Of course, being the beauty lovers that we are, we just couldn't keep our eyes off the hair and makeup the stars wore as they came down the red carpet.

 

Lindsay Lohan looked fresh and youthful with her hair worn in loose waves-- we love the strawberry-blonde! She kept the liner more heavy on the top of her lids, giving the illusion of thicker lashes. Flawless skin and a pale lip really kept her face in balance and made her look radiant.

To keep your waves frizz-free like Lindsay's, try L'Oreal Studio Line Smoothness Glossing Creme, $4.99 

 

 

 

 

 

Rihanna took a new risk with her hairstyle, adding a bit of blue and blonde streaks to it. She also decided to use a blue liner to line the bottom of her eyes, while keeping her lids more pale. Again, we see a pale lip, but this time it's done with a more glossy finish.

Make your eyes pop like Rihanna's! Try Tarte Eyeliner in Blue Nude, $18

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ashlee Simpson wore her typical heavy liner, but adding teal blue into the mix really added something extra and made her eyes pop. Her hair was worn with shiny long layers, creating a more sophisticated look.

To add shine, like Ashlee's, to your own locks, try ABBA Pure Shine Spray, $18

 

 

 

 

 

Lauren Conrad's hair is truly our favorite of the night. The braided updo looked nothing short of effortless and chic. With the focus on her eyes, her pink cheeks and pearly-pink lips really gave her a soft and ultra-femine look.

 For Lauren's soft, radiant look, try Clinique Allover Colour, $29.50

For Fall, flawless, radiant skin is a must-have! Create the perfect canvas using products that cover imperfections, give you a natural finish and more radiant glow: 

 

 

 

L'Oreal True Match Foundation Spf 17 works great to not only match your skin, but this buildable base blends in evenly and is weightless to boot. $10.95

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Clinique Perfectly Real Makeup gives a flawless finish with its patent pending micro-mirrored technology that optically resurfaces skin. Oil-free. Non-acnegenic. $22.50

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

Smashbox Artificial Light Luminizing Lotion can be mixed with your foundation or moisturizer to give your skin that beautiful glow. Contains ginko biloba and japanese green tea for added skin benefits. $30

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revlon Beyond Natural Duo Concealer & Highlighter works to cover imperfections- like blemishes and dark spots- as well as subtly add radiance where you want it. $9.99

 

 

 

 

 

 

LORAC Perfectly Lit Luminizing Oil-Free Powder creates a glow on skin that instantly brightens and evens out the skin tone. Optimizing the effect of light helps diminish the appearance of imperfections for a youthful, luminous, glowing complexion. $32

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Studio Gear Luminizer Stick adds a skintone shimmer to cheeks, eyes, and lips -- anywhere you want to accent. This compact tube can be worn over foundation or alone for a sheer radiance over your bare skin. $18.50  

 

 

 

The new fall season will be an exciting time to try out this trend in beauty. Choose these products, or find those similar to them, to create for yourself more flawless and radiant looking skin!

Though summer may be winding to an end, it's important to remember that sunscreen is an essential part of your year round beauty maintenance. Daily exposure can cause irreversible damage, and sometimes just a few minutes is all it takes. Beauty Editor Mickey Williams addresses your most common ray blocking questions and rounds up the newest skin saving solutions.

1. What's the easiest sunscreen to use?

If you're like me, time and effort are everything when it comes to creating a daily ritual. With sunscreen lotions, gels and creams, just rubbing it in can work up quite a sweat. Grab a bottle of the new evolution of sunblocks and spray on an aerosol. These misters can be a bit pricey and you will use them up in a flash, but they feel great and protect better than most lotions.

Neutrogena Fresh Cooling Sunblock, Body Mist SPF 70
This sunblock is uber refreshing and sprays at any angle, so no need to wrangle the man in a bikini next to you to get your back. It's great for sports and smells light and clean and now comes in SPF 70 for the ultra invisible sun blanket.

Aveeno Sunblock Spray, Continuous Protection, SPF 70
Another winner in the continuous spray SPF 70 gamut. An added perk for Aveeno is that it's loaded with Vitamins A, C and E and contains natural soy proteins.

Peter Thomas Roth Continuous Sunscreen Mist SPF 30 PTR Continuous Sunscreen Mist is a bit more expensive than its rivals, but we just loved the scent and the way our skin glistened after a mist or two. Oh, and it served as a very long wearing sunscreen to boot!

2. Are there any natural sunscreens that actually work?

Burt's Bees SPF 30 Chemical-Free Sunscreen with Hemp Seed Oil
Burt's Bees utilizes titanium dioxide, an earth mineral that forms a barrier on skin and reflects UV rays. The formula is light-weight and slicked up with hemp seed oil for ultimate hydration.

3. What sunscreen will not cause breakouts?

Yes! Finally we can protect without the annoying pimples associated with slathering on yet another cream on our faces. I've found sensitive resolutions to keep skin calm and burn-free.

The basic solution: Neutrogena Sensitive Skin SunBlock SPF 30 
Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Sunblock 30 worked very well under our makeup and moisturizer. We applied it and waited a bit for it to absorb. No reported burning and we didn't seem to get a lick of sun!

The two-in-one solution: Cosmedicine Global Health SPF 30 Face UVA/B Sunsceen with Antioxidants
Cosmedicine feels like you're putting on a soft moisture balm. It doubles as a sunscreen and face cream, so no need to apply a moisturizer. And Cosmedicine is loaded with antioxidants like vitamin C, E and pomegranate extract to help recharge and replenish skin.

4. I get fever blisters when my lips are exposed. Is there any lip balm that shields and stays put?

Armada Protective Lip Balm 60+
Fever blister prone? It's under cover with Armada Protective Lip Balm 60+. High SPF coverage works indoors as well as outdoors and with extended use, it can actually start to lighten melasma, dark spots and other hyper pigmentations. Also check out Armada Sport 70. It tested unbelievably in durability in and out of the water.

5. What's the best moisturizer and SPF protection combo?

Lubriderm Daily Moisture with SPF 15 Lotion
Your smoothest sun shielding combo is by Lubriderm. Lubriderm Daily Moisture with SPF 15 comes in a lightweight, non-greasy and fast absorbing lotion. The pump applicator makes it super easy to apply lotion and sunscreen right out of the shower. Perfect for the girl that needs to simplify!

Sunless tanning has come a long way. Now we can soothe, hydrate and restore elasticity with pretty much every conceivable fragrance-free solution. This season introduces us to new gradual tanners that slow hair growth by up to 50% for some softer hand-friendly tanned gams. I've spent months testing the newest self-tanners, here are my top five favorites. (Want more? Check out last year's top 10 sunless tanners)

Kiehl's Sun-Free Self-Tanning Formula

Kiehl's Sun-Free Self Tanning Formula skyrocketed to our top five list for four reasons:

1. It's gentle enough for both face and body.
2. It's loaded with humectants, botanicals and anti-oxidants like rosemary, rose, jasmine flower and cucumber fruit extract.
3. Even if your application methods aren't on the highest level, you're still going to get a glow without serious streaking.
4. It delivers a tan in about three hours and our favorite shade of bronze came after just two applications.

$22.50 at nordstrom.com

Neutrogena Color Boosting Sunblock SPF 30

Neutrogena Color Boosting Sunblock SPF30 is simply our favorite way to get a dose of Neutrogena's anti UVA/UVB Helioplex protection with a bit of bronze at the same time on the same dime. Just make sure to keep the waterproof formula away from your eyes.

$8.99 at drugstore.com

Olay Touch of Sun Overnight

This was our top golden pick for a gradual tanner. The smooth lightly scented formula is loaded with high levels of glycerin to keep skin super hydrated even after the tan tint appears. We also loved that Olay didn't rub off on our sheets and towels as much as its competitors.

$7.99 at drugstore.com

Quick Tan Sunless Tanning Mist by Body Drench

Quick Tan excels at creating a browner bronze that sprays dark and dries fast. You have to use your latex gloves to ensure an even glow - and work fast - but this brown lasts and lasts. Mist your body in your shower area for a quick clean up after tanning.

$16.99 at folica.com

Aveeno Continuous Radiance Moisturizing Lotion All Skin Tones

The dial a shade container allows you to start out light and customize the exact deepness of your tan. Aveeno Continuous Radiance formula is oil-free, but loaded with moisture rich soy to keep your skin soft for up to 24 hours. The lotion works streak-free on legs and even arms as long as you start out in a lighter shade and work your way to deep dark bronze in a few applications.

$13.99 at drugstore.com

For a perfect application, check out 10 Tips For A Perfect Self Tan

Looking for that perfect streak-free at-home bronze? Here are 10 tested tips to help make you a sunless tanner pro:

1. Tight fitting rubber gloves do work just as good as your hands. They should fit snugly and be thrown away after each use.

2. Elbows, knees, armpits, and under forearms and ankles should always be prepped pre tanning with lotion or a sunscreen to prevent build-up of tanner. Afterwards, designate a wash cloth for a quick semi-damp pat over.

3. Exfoliate from head to toe. Body exfoliation should be done with a non-oily or moisturizing scrub. Oil based scrubs prevent color from applying evenly to skin. Try scrubs that are designed specifically for self tanning like L'Oreal Sublime Bronze Sunless Body Scrub. Salt scrubs should be avoided if you plan on shaving before tanning.

4. If using darkly tinted self tanners, you may want to shave legs the day prior. This is especially helpful if you plan to go on with your day after self tanning application. The dark tint usually settles into fresh hair-free pores and can give off a spotted effect on skin.

5. I am a huge fan of tanning when staying in hotels. This way, you can apply tanner before you catch zzz's and wake up golden. It also keeps the mess off your sheets at home (come on, they bleach these sheets at seriously hot temperatures so there's no problem getting self tanning stains removed!)

6. Avoid your facial moisturizer and body creams for as long as you can and be sure not to apply at all until color is in full effect.

7. After tanning, exercise should be a sweat free activity and swimming is completely of limits. If it's raining, stay indoors. Once you're caught in the rain, you'll find tiger streaks rather than an even glow.

8. If you need tan longevity, steam showers, saunas, and hot baths should be avoided during your days of deep glow.

9. Wear dark loose fitting clothing to avoid tan transferring. A tight pair of jeans put on immediately after tanning will absorb tan lotion and leave creases on your skin.

10. After tanning face, be sure to swipe a wet cotton swab across eyebrows and rub out tanner that could have deposited. Also, a cotton ball moistened across your hairline will remove where tanners like to build up during application. This will ensure a no-tell tanned face.

Want even more tips? Beauty editor Mickey Williams shares some in a recent radio interview:

In January 2009, your favorite TV stations are mandated to go from analog to digital. This conversion delivers high definition programming with a picture six times sharper than your previous tube. A crystal clear image exposing every wrinkle, scar, freckle and blemish could cause a stir in Tinseltown. What's a star to do?

Step in high def makeup. Whether it's an airbrush application or a silicone powder, beauty is changing and working as a makeup artist has never been more exciting. Although the demand was created for those onscreen and the makeup artists applying it, the consumer at home benefits from better options in traceless beauty products. Every conceivable skin tone and flaw-camouflaging weapon has been thought out in order to keep skin looking natural, just tweaked to perfection.

Make Up For Ever is leading the industry with high def beauty products delivering one seamless cosmetic after another. I worked with several different companies looking for foundations, powders and concealers and could not find a more naturally perfect complexion than with the following three products:

Make Up For Ever HD High Definition Powder
When you untwist the cap, the ultra-fine micro particles in this colorless powder appear as smoke coming from the cap. You will not find a thinner powder for an invisible set. Makeup Forever's High Definition Powder contains no talc and is 100% mineral. The end result is a silky, soft focus look that works on every conceivable skin tone. The powder makes mediocre foundations look better and the matte finish lasts beyond your day.

Make Up For Ever HD High Definition Foundation
A silky veil that sits prettily on skin without looking like it's there. Need I say anymore? I found layering the foundation over a blemish is all you will need for coverage and when used with the HD Makeup Forever Powder it truly looks like the skin you were born with.

Make Up For Ever Lift ConcealerI've been a fan of this lifting concealer for years. Its thin, but supplies adequate pigment to cover the biggest blemish or the deepest under eye bag.

Now that you've created a natural even-toned canvas, a little bronzer can add the color back to your skin tone in all the right places. A bronzer is the perfect cheekbone companion, but in HD television and real life, you can see the shimmer and dark color associated with most beauty brand bronzers. I've found a few contouring favorites to re-sculpt lightly and effectively with gentle pigments and no shine. Just take it easy a little goes a long way:

Beauty Addicts Hydra Sun Rays


Bobbi Brown Bronzing Powders

Survive the three H's of summer with these heat- and humidity-proof products that will keep you looking and feeling cool as a cucumber:

Oil Absorbing Treatment Spray
Biolage Cooling Mint Oil Control Treatment
Provides a sensorial solution to treat and nourish the scalp. It balances and invigorates a normal to oily scalp so the hair looks smooth and feels refreshed. Perfect for hot summer days when you don't have time to wash your hair, just spray directly on the scalp to reduce and prevent oil. $16




Sunscreen that Mattifies
Peter Thomas Roth Uber Dry SPF 30
A revolutionary dry, lightweight sunscreen that provides SPF 30 protection while leaving the skin with a smooth, shine-free finish. This non-oily formula is virtually undetectable to the touch and ideal for oily and acne-prone skin. Enriched with Vitamins A, C, and E to help fight against free radical damage. For normal to oily skin types. $26



Primer to Stay Shine-Free
philosophy never let them see you shine
The must-have product of summer is a mattifying primer that dramatically reduces the appearance of oil, shine and large pores. This velvet touch primer controls and absorbs excess oil and minimizes the appearance of pores to act as a smooth and velvety base for more flawless makeup application. $20




Lip and Cheek Stain that Stays Put
theBalm Stainiac
The perfect pop of color for your cheeks and lips, Stainiac hint of tint is perfect for all skin tones. Simply dab a touch onto your cheeks for a sheer wash of color or layer for added intensity. And the best part? Stainiac is formulated to give you more time before the stain sets, so it won't streak and will stay on your pout or cheeks all day long. $14




Melt-Proof Concealer
Mineral Wear® Talc-Free Mineral Concealer Stick with SPF 15
This sweat-proof oil-free mineral concealer stick features a minimalist, talc-free formula ideal for the most sensitive or break-out prone skin. Mineral Concealer Stick provides full, even coverage, while gently gliding onto skin. Formulated with 100% pure and gentle mineral extracts for added wear and a smoothing effect to help minimize the appearance of fine lines. This gentle, ultra-creamy concealer stick delivers natural flawless coverage throughout the day and won't run or smudge in the summer's heat. Available in 4 shades. $6.95




Non-Greasy Breakout-Free Foundation
bareMinerals SPF 15 Foundation
Mineral-based foundations are ideal for summer. They offer flawless coverage without the heaviness of cream or liquid foundations. Made of only pure, crushed minerals from the earth, bareMinerals SPF 15 Foundation looks like a powder, feels like a cream, and buffs on like silk, giving skin a natural luminosity while feeling as if you are not wearing any makeup at all. $25





Cooling and Moisturizing Bronzer
Vincent Longo Hydro Stick
Designed as a wet bronzer for the face--including lips and eyes. This cooling, moisturizing, and water-resistant new product shines with tiny micro particles. Formulated with a high water content, new Hydro Stick is refreshingly cool to the touch and leaves skin looking irresistibly sexy in glimmering, light-catching new hues. $25





Waterproof Eye Makeup
Make Up For Ever Pearly Waterproof Eyeshadow Pencil
Specially formulated waterproof pencils are richly pigmented and long lasting, even under the most extreme conditions. Line, define, or fill in your entire lid with dazzling color.

Summertime is heating up the beauty scene with products designed to keep the cool in your look. Beauty Editor Mickey Williams shares the picks topping her summer hot list.

Too Faced Tanning Bed in a Tube Face

I have personally made it my goal to find the safest, easiest to use, turn-your-head tan in a bottle. I will look no further, Tanning Bed in a Tube gives a natural looking sun-kissed shimmer to help you rock a temporary beach babe bronze. It's oil-free so you can apply without worry of a summer blemish and with a little powder, you can carry off this glow as a foundation during the day. The only downside is it contains NO SUNSCREEN (I know- I can't believe it either). $21.50 at sephora.com




Lubriderm Intense Skin Repair Body Lotion with Itch Relief
Let's face it, swimming, self-tanning and all that waxing and shaving can really dry a gal out more than any winter radiator! New Lubriderm Intense Skin Repair Body lotion seals the flakes and heals the cracks with a 24 hour time-release formula that even helps with itch relief. No excuses for ashy skin! $7.99 at drugstore.com





Stila Sun Shimmer Dry Oil
Ever need just a hint of tan or a soft shimmer? Uh, yeah, it's summer isn't it? Stila Sun Shimmer Dry Oil's super sheer formula is perfect for summer heat when your other waxy creams can feel like a stifling pair of stockings. Formulated with macademia and kukui nut oils, Stila Dry Oil quenches skin's thirst while leaving a glisten that warrants an "is it getting hot in here, or is it just me?" $26 at sephora.com




Chantecaille Just Skin Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15
Just Skin is by far the best tinted moisturizer we've seen in a long while. It's a tubed up and blendable, medium-coverage super cream that feels silky and fresh on skin. A minimal SPF 15 is packed in and it doesn't really go deep in its 5 shades offered, but if you fit into Just Skin's limited palette, it's well worth the hefty price tag. Just Skin is just beautiful! $62 at spacenk.com





Whish Blueberry Mint Shave Crave Pump
Ladies, if we have to de-hair ourselves for summer we might as well make it fun. Whish Body is giving you some shower options with an assortment of shave crave pumps that serve as a creamy buffer to keep legs smooth and nick free. My favorite is Blueberry Mint, that claims to not only sooth tired muscles with mint but de-age with blueberry oil. I'm a fan. $24 at whishbody.com



Girlactik Eye Glaze
Eye Glaze doesn't feather or crease no matter how steamy things get outdoors. The waterproof colors come in 5 sultry or delicate shimmers and couldn't be easier to use. We tested the color chic out on a hot NYC day and found Girlactik had super staying powers, even after a long day in the park. $17 at girlactik.com




Miss Oops Pedicure in a Bottle
Miss Oops pretty much buffs out the crazy cracks that appear during flip flop season. This exfoliating foot cream repairs heels and toes in a lightweight formula that smells fresh and cools the skin with tingly peppermint, menthol and soothing lavender. $17 at amazon.com

While visiting my dermatologist, he suggested I introduce a glycolic face wash into my daily regime. In the past, I read data on glycolic acids to excess, but found I wasn't sure if all the information offered a fountain of youth or was just your usual beauty hype. With some recent help from a few leading fruit acid beauty brands, I've researched and tested everything from cleansers to eye pads, and found positively interesting results.

To begin, let me explain what a glycolic is. Glycolic is arguably the most effective form of Alpha Hydroxy Acid. It is derived from the sugar cane plant and also can be obtained from citrus fruits, grapes and lactic acid (milk). Its purpose in the beauty arena is to refine the texture of skin by softening fine lines and wrinkles. Another benefit of glycolic is its ability to lighten discolorations and acne scars while shrinking the appearance of pores. This all occurs through the process of exfoliation, the shedding of dead skin cells from the top surface of the epidermis. Still, glycolic has yet another advantage as a rapid delivery system for any moisture or treatment based products you apply right after the use of a glycolic based product.

Sound too good to be true? I thought so too, but found some stand out products designed for use from head to toe that are worth your beauty dollar: