Recently in Product Reviews Category

Let's face it, makeup palettes are the best invention since sliced bread. This LORAC Color Me Couture Eye Shadow Palette caught our eye on one of our many weekly visits to Sephora. The gorgeous clutch-like packaging houses 5 neutral colors infused with Mother of Pearl to help the catch light and really make eyes pop. Not only did we not hesitate to buy this, but we suggest you add this to your beauty arsenal as well.

Colors include:

Enlighten (shimmering creamy pearl)

Style (shimmering gold pearl)

Luxe (shimmering bronze pearl)

Jade (shimmering olive green with gold pearl)

Designer (shimmering black with gold pearl)

Sephora exclusive. $37, sephora.com

In the crisp chill of winter, keeping skin moisturized is top priority for us. St. Ives Luxurious Whipped Silk Body Wash ($3.99 for 18 fl oz., drugstore.com) is one we love using these days-- it's wallet-friendly and yet still gives us the lavish lather with natural moisturizing ingredients we might find in a pricer brand. Take that dry skin!

As beauty-loving women, we like to have our tips and toes polished. We love experimenting with the latest color trends as well as sticking to the classics. But as busy women, we don't always have the time to sit and wait for our nails to dry. Thankfully, Sally Hansen created a great solution that we love: Insta-Dri Fast Dry Nail Color.  Available in 24 colors, it says it dries in 60 seconds. We, however find that after a little less than 2 minutes it's completely the-polish-isn't-going-anywhere dry. Once it is, we enjoy a lasting, good-looking finish that is strong and wears 3-5 days without chipping. Available in 24 shades. $4.99, cvs.com

Love Spell Refreshing Body Mist, from VS's Secret Garden Collection, is a sweet and fruity body spray that leaves skin lightly scented with notes of Cherry Blossom, Peach and White Jasmine, moisturized with Aloe Vera and calm thanks to the infusinon of Chamomile. Though quite sweet in smell, we find a couple of sprays of this is just the right amount of lush sweetness to keep our mood positive and carry us through the day. $9, victoriassecret.com

We've all been there: home with a new drugstore foundation, and it isn't looking on the skin the way it appears in the bottle. Thankfully, Revlon created Custom Creations, an amazing medium-coverage foundation that can be layered for a full coverage effect. The best part about it (in addtion to the SPF 15) is that it comes with two shades, so you'll always get your perfect tone, no matter the time of year. Comes in six color combinations. $13.99, drugstore.com 

We always welcome the opportunity to pamper ourselves. With Lisa Hoffman's Bath Soak, we take advantage as often as we can. Pouring a bit of this into a bath not only pampers, but offers nourishment, rejuvenation and moisture for our skin. Did we mention the smell? This award-winner is nothing short of amazing-- with notes or Jasmine, Orange and Bergamot, our skin is always left smelling fabulous. $23.95, lisahoffmanbeauty.com

Antique Gold-- deep gold sparkle

Black Pearl-- medium purple

Brown Metal-- warm brown sparkle

Chrome Patina-- golden pewter 

Goldstone-- gold sparkle

Mercury-- silver sparkle

Starry Night-- navy blue sparkle

Starry Purple-- deep purple sparkle

Our skin needs moisture to stay healthy year round, so naturally we love lotions and creams to keep it that way. This fresh, light-scented body balm by H2O Plus is perfect for warm weather, and our new favorite. Packed with nourishing ingredients, like Vitamin E and Provitamin B, it saturates our skin with water-rich moisture, leaving it looking and feeling smooth. $11.50, h2oplus.com

Sonya Dakar's Lip Juice lip moisturizer is our newest fave-- it heals and nurtures lips with olive oil, hemp and Vitamin E and has SPF 15 to help prevent sun damage to the sensitive lip area. The travel-friendly tube goes anywhere (yes, even the smallest clutch), so keeping our lips soft and protected anytime has never been easier. Available in three flavors-- Citrus Squeeze, Peppymint and Vanilla Bliss. $10, dermstore.com

When we think of face primer ingredients, silicone is typically the one that comes to mind first. Such is not the case with Korres Vitamin E Face Primer. This silicone-free primer is 99% natural and acts more like a moisturizer rather than the typical pre-foundation product. We love it's fresh, citrus scent and the way it makes our skin so soft and smooth. It also fills in fine lines, all while keeping makeup in place all day. $28, korresusa.com

Use promo code STYLEBAKERY to receive 30% off your entire purchase through September 15, 2009

We consider ourselves to be everything from modern and sophisticated, to playful and classic. Gucci Flora embodies what most women want in a scent-- subtle and sophisticated with a youthful and refined quality. Notes of Citrus Accord, Peony, Rose, Osmanthus Flower, Pink Pepper and Sandalwood make this fragrance timeless and bright with just the right amount of sexiness we can't get enough of. From $52, macys.com

During this hot season, our feet deserve refreshing treat. Elizabeth Grant Refreshing Foot Spray cools away the discomfort our tootsies endure after a long days of walking (to our favorite store or market), running (after the kids, the dog or a taxi) and climbing (up and down the stairs to our offices). This peppermint-scented spray instantly re-energizing our feet after vigorous workouts or mid-day slumps. Spray some in your shoes and in your gym bag to keep them odor-free. $15, elizabethgrant.com

Worried about what sunscreen to choose? Want to make sure it will protect you from both UVA and UVB rays? Last week we exposed the ugly truth behind suncreens and the manufacturing practices of brands' suncreens. It left us with disappointment, but we're determined to find the best sun protection for ourselves and those we love. The following is a list of products highly recommended based on the EWG research study, and we are loving too.

Best Sunscreen for Your Face:

Best Lip Treatment with SPF: Jane Iredale LipDrink SPF 15

Best Facial Moisturizer SPF:

Best Everyday Sunscreen: UV Natural Sunscreen SPF 30+

We love this sunscreen for its simplistic, yet effective, blend of ingredients. Green tea, grapeseed oil and natural Vitamin E offer anti-oxidant benefits to strengthen skin to fight against free-radicals. Water-resistant. $37.99, amazon.com

Best Sunscreen for Your Kids: California Baby No Fragrance SPF 30+

Best Water-Resistant Sunscreen:

Best Drugstore Sunscreen:

Summer is the season to show off healthy, glowing skin. We recommend Suki's Delicate Hydrating Oil to be used over your entire body after bathing or as an enriching bath oil to enhance skin's luminosity and hydration. Nourishing benefits from grapeseed, sunflower and apricot kernel oils, while extracts of chamomile, lavender and comfrey aid in soothing and calming the skin. Suitable for all skin types. $24, beautorium.com

If you're looking for a mascara primer that will help build lush, longer-looking lashes while nourishing them at the same time, you may want to try Lancome's new Oscillation Powerbooster mascara primer. The formula creates an ideal base for lashes, while conditioners keep them nourished. We love that it defines and preps our lashes to enhance the benefits of our favorite mascara, giving our lashes the fullest result. $39, nordstrom.com

When we're on the go, it's essential to have products that go right along with us. We're loving this Clinique limited-edition Happy-To-Go set. It includes three unique and oh-so travel-friendly solid perfume pencils: Clinique Happy in its own original scent, A Hint of Citrus and A Wealth of Flowers. Wear them alone or mix together to create your own happy scent. Sharpener and mini bag included. $30, sephora.com

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

Sephora Favorites The Fix-It Kit Skincare Deluxe Sampler

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

Sephora Favorites Skin Saviors Moisturizers Deluxe Sampler

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

Magnificently fragrant and clean-burning, Pacifica Soy Candle in Tuscan Blood Orange will add a burst of color to any room while filling it with its delicious blend of spicy blood orange, strawberry, raspberry, and mandarin scents. Every candle form Pacifica is handmade with vegetable soy wax, lead-free wicks and Pacifica's signature blends of essential and natural oils. We love burning these in the early morning when the day begins to pick up and we can enjoy its vibrant, energizing scent as the day progresses. Burn time: 100 hours. 5.5 ounces, sephora.com

Bliss has created the ultimate lightweight moisture-giver in the new Lemon + Sage Body Butter Lite. Much like its nourishing older sister, Body Butter, the botanically-based moisturizing ingredients and antioxidant vitamins in Lite condition skin like, well...butter. It won't, however, leave you with the extra-thick-- and sometimes greasy-- finish. Body Butter Lite is perfect for creating a more dewy finish on the skin, absorbs quickly, and leaves skin weightlessly hydrated. $29, blissworld.com

Clinique's Black Honey Almost Lipstick is the one lipcolor we know we can gift our friends without worrying if it will "work" on them. Now the amazing gloss power of the brand's Superbalm is available in the much-loved shade. Superbalm is an ultra-moisturizing lip balm that thinks it's a gloss, contains antioxidants to protect your pout, leaving lips feeling pampered. It's one of our must-have lip products, and now that it comes in Black Honey, we love it even more. Sephora Exclusive. $13.50, sephora.com

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

Hair that is full of volume is on every woman's beauty wish list these days (think more Victoria's Secret model, less 80s 'Dynasty' character). Tresemme 24 Hour Body Foaming Mousse will make it easier to achieve the full body you crave thanks to its Volume Control Complex. This formula builds body, leaving hair looking soft and feeling light. Applied to damp hair, it works with heat styling tools to maintain optimal body and bounce. $4.99, walgreens.com

Many nail colors have been launched for the Summer season, and while we love the bright neons and (surprising) blue and purple hues, we couldn't help but fall in love with the new Essie Summer 2009 Collection. We imagine our tips and toes will be quite happy in these shades of pinks and corals...

Chubby Cheeks - sophisticated sunset coral

Cute As a Button - bright, vibrant persimmon

Funny Face - sexy, punchy fuchsia

Lovie Dovie - perfect pink flamingo

Luscious Lips - sheer, soft light pink

Not Just A Pretty Face - naturally pale nude

Gillette Venus Embrace is the best razor for women we have used in some time. Sure, we have others we like, but this one is the absolute best. Its five blades deliver the closest, smoothest shave without leaving our legs with nicks, cuts or razor burn, and comes with a convenient in-shower holder for extra refills- our inner neat freak can appreciate that fabulous detail. $12.99, drugstore.com

If we could create what an island getaway would smell like, it would be this: Michael Kors Island Bermuda. This limited-edition scent is vibrant with the scents of freesia, hibiscus, tropical passion flowers, and complimented by soft scents of ceder and driftwood. It's fresh, inviting, and oh-so office friendly. So while we may not venture to the islands this Summer, we can at least imagine what it would smell like. $62, sephora.com

John Frieda Frizz-Ease Creme Serum Overnight Repair Formula improves our tresses while we sleep, ensuring that our dry, damaged, or frizzy hair will transform into visibly smoother hair by the next morning. We love that it leaves our locks shiny and soft, but what's even better is that it never leaves residue on our pillows (because who needs more laundry to do?) $8.99, drugstore.com

DuWop Revolotion Bronzing Body Moisturizer is what those of us who use self-tanner call a cult classic. From its silky and smooth finish, to its ability to give a streak-free finish (not to mention its improved non-transfer formula), getting that summer glow is beyond easy with this stuff. 

Bonus: Revolotion contains SPF 15 to go along with the kiss of bronzing pigment and subtle shimmer. $28, beauty.com

With all of the health issues and talk of germs going around, we find comfort in the fact that keeping our hands clean is one of the best ways to stay healthy. This Bath and Body Works Anti-Bacterial Moisturizing Hand Soap in the new Nectarine Mint scent makes hand washing so pleasant that we look forward to cleansing every chance we get. The moisturizing formula ensures our hands won't dry out, while the amazing scent of intoxicates our senses. $5.00, bathandbodyworks.com

.01 oz SPF 20 eyecolor in Sandcastle, a light warm toast

.01 oz SPF 20 eyecolor in Boardwalk, a milk chocolate cocoa

.01 oz SPF 20 eyecolor in Starfish, an iridescent apricot pink

.01 oz SPF 20 multi-tasking minerals in Well-Rested, a cream linen

Sun Proof Fun (a $44 value), $28, sephora.com

Looking for your perfect sunscreen? Sephora has you covered with their new Sun Safety Kit. This collection of skin-protecting products features every type of skincare you can think of. You'll have no excuse for not wearing sunscreen everyday because this array of products will help you find your perfect match. Also, when you purchase this kit, you not only will be doing something good for yourself, but you will be giving back to help others: 100% of the net profits from the sales of this set will be donated to The Skin Cancer Foundation.

- 0.14 oz Murad Essential-C Eye Cream SPF 15

- 0.23 oz DDF Protect and Correct UV Moisturizer SPF 15

- 0.5 oz Jack Black Double Duty Face Moisturizer SPF 20 

- 0.25 oz Peter Thomas Roth Max Sheer All Day Defense Lotion SPF 30

- 1.0 oz Anthony Logistics Facial Moisturizer SPF 15

- 0.1 oz Clarins UV Plus Day Screen High Protection SPF 40

- 0.34 oz Korres Watermelon Sunscreen Face Cream SPF 30

- 0.33 oz Cosmedicine Medi-matte Oil Control Lotion SPF 20

- 0.08 oz Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Cream SPF 55 PA+++

- 0.25 oz Ole Henriksen Herbal Day Cream SPF 15

- 0.4 oz Philosophy Hope in a Jar SPF 20 - 0.25 oz Smashbox Photo Finish UVA/UVB SPF

 15 - 0.01 oz Bare Escentuals BareMinerals Well-Rested for Eyes SPF 30

If you've never tried an Essence of Beauty Soy Lotion Candle, hopefully after reading this, you'll head out and get yourself one. Made from 100% pure oils to protect and soften skin, these sweet-smelling candles are designed to melt at just a few degrees higher than body temperature to produce a soothing, spa-like effect for the skin; use it as a skin-softening lotion or sensual massage oil. Available in Passion Flower, Purple Fields, Citrus Coconut and Pomegranate Apple scents. $9.99, cvs.com

It is our belief that a good skincare regimen will help us achieve and keep our most healthy, glowing complexion. But as we age, it just so happens that our skin doesn't always cooperate like we'd prefer. So while we treat the dark spots, freckles and redness, we are happy to use products that help us fake perfect skin. With Redpoint Noc-Out Cover-Up Compact-- a trio of different colored concealers that each work in its own way to cover up redness, eliminate the appearance of dark spots and freckles, or help disguise the look of dark circles around the eyes-- we can give our skin the fabulous, flawless finish we desire. Use it alone on bare skin or after applying your foundation. $38, redpointbeauty.com

Decleor Nutri-Delice Delightful Extreme Protection Cream is infused with pampering, ultra-rich ingredients to smooth and bring strength to dry skin types. If you are in need of a nourishing "shock treatment" for your thirsty skin, look no further than this replenishing cream. Even the driest and most weakened skin will feel immediate and long-lasting protection. Beauty tip: Rub an additional amount into your decolletage and hands to keep them soft and supple. 

$58, decleor-us.com

Ted Gibson Daily Cleanse Shampoo manages to dissolve and wash away dirt, build-up, excess oil and pollutants with a blend of five cleansers, while ingredients like silk proteins and biobotanical extracts work to make our hair healthy and full of shine. 

Following this with Ted's Daily Nourish Conditioner, formulated with 9 different conditioning agents to strengthen and increase elasticity in our hair, we get an amazing amount of balanced moisture, leaving our tresses manageable and feeling soft. These also smell divine (just thinking about it puts us in a good mood), making our hair washing ritual that much more enjoyable. 

$24.95 each, tedgibsonbeauty.com

If you don't wear sunscreen every day on your body because of its sticky or greasy texture, we recommend that you try Ahava Sun Protection Anti-Aging Moisturizing Spray SPF 15. This sunscreen, enriched with Ahava's own blend of Dead Sea minerals that reduce sun damage, feels light and milky smooth when applied, and absorbs without leaving an oily residue. Now you have no excuses for not protecting your skin. $22, ahavaus.com

Formulated with 100% pure Ojon palm nut oil, Ojon Revitalizing Mist is a unique "shake to activate" formula that is completely alcohol-free and will not weigh the hair down. Use it to refresh and reactivate your look without washing, after working out, going out or sleeping in. The natural ingredients also detangle, help reduce breakage, and will protect hair from damaging heat. A natural multi-tasker-- we love that. For all hair types. $26, beauty.com

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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Wearing long-wearing makeup or waterproof mascara can be a chore to take off at the end of the day. We want to make sure to get it all off, and we certainly don't want to wake up with raccoon eyes the next morning. Then there are occasions that we are just too tired to go through the steps to remove our makeup at all. But we know better, so we turn to Estee Lauder's Take It Away Cleanser. This amazing water-based, creme-gel wonder removes all of our makeup-- and we mean all of it-- from our face. Our skin gets clean in one step, and is left feeling soft and fresh. We love it so much we find ourselves even using it to remove our regular makeup as well. Suitable for all skin types. $22, dillards.com

Ahava Purifying Mud Mask allows us to give ourselves a skin-pampering treatment at home without spending a ton of money. The formula for oily skin pulls out skin dulling impurities and excess oil, leaving us looking radiant. It also doubles as a body mask if you want to give yourself an inexpensive body treatment: Slather this on after exfoliating, let it sit and rinse when almost dry (you will need to enlist the help of a friend to apply to your back). Whether you use this on your face or on your body, you'll be thrilled with how your skin looks-- and your wallet will be too. Also available for normal to dry skin. $30, spalook.com

When we want to give our tired tootsies a treat, The Body Shop's Peppermint Cooling Foot Rescue Treatment is the perfect solution. Not only does it soften our rough soles with skin-smoothing cocoa butter, sweet almond oil and grapeseed extract, but it also cools and deodorizes with peppermint oil. We love using this year-round, but it's especially yummy during the warmer months-- we'll spare you the details...$18, thebodyshop.com

Laura Geller Bronze-n-Brighten is our must-have bronzer for the coming spring/summer season. The baked powder gives skin a gorgeous sun-kissed glow without the fake orange tint. It even comes in a fair version that complements even the palest skin tones. We love to dust a little over lids to add a hint of color and definition, or use it in place of our foundation for a radiant, healthy glow. $29.50, sephora.com

Busy schedules sometimes interfere with our manicure time, so when we have to stretch one out beyond the usual 5-7 days, we reach for Orly Glosser High Shine Topcoat to help us keep that "just polished" look. While we have a few other topcoats we love, this one is great for every other day application without adding too much bulk to the layers of polish we've already applied. It protects our tips, and when you add to the fact that it dries incredibly fast, you can understand why we adore this product. $9, orlybeauty.com

We love, love, love, CoverGirl LashBlast. Now the volumizing formula has been glammed up a bit into a Luxe version that we are adoring right now (we can't resist the fabulous hot pink tube). With four black shades infused with a hint of color, each also contains a hint of shimmer to give lashes a little something extra-- so fun! Colors include Black Cabernet, Black Emerald, Black Royale and Black Platinum. $7.99, drugstore.com

Crabtree & Evelyn has come out with a fabulous aromatherapy line called Distillations that we can't help but adore. The Revitalizing range helps give us a little caffeine-free boost no matter what time of day. Our product of choice after a shower, at the kitchen sink or even at our desk at the office is the Conditioning Body Lotion. With nourishing coconut oil and exotic tiare flower to restore our skin's suppleness, we let the aroma of fresh lemon and coriander oils revitalize our spirits. Ahhh...$19.50 crabtree-evelyn.com

Johnson's Body Care 24 Hour Body Lotion is a lightly-scented lotion that we have been using that leaves our skin feeling amazingly soft and smooth from the moment we put it on. The non-greasy, hydrating formula is great for all skin types and the price makes it that much more fabulous. $5.49, drugstore.com

L'Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Mist is one of the best, not to mention inexpensive, self tanners on the market right now. We are definitely against the orange, Oompa Loompa look, so this is one you should reach for this spring-- the formulation is meant to work with your skin's amino acids to create the perfect complimentary skin color. And the fact that it's in an aeresol can and has a no rub formula also makes this makes this very user-friendly. $9.99, drugstore.com

(Check out more of our favorite sunless tanners)

We really love Dove Cream Oil Body Wash because it never leaves our skin feeling tight after using it. While some so-called "moisturizing" body washes leave us darting out of the shower to the nearest bottle of lotion, this one does not. It leaves skin feeling silky soft and smelling great. Another plus? A little goes a long way-- you don't even have to squeeze the bottle very hard to get the product out-- and it lathers up beautifully. Available in 5 fabulous scents. 8.49, drugstore.com

We love sporting big, bold lashes, even if we're wearing a more natural-looking makeup look. Our new favorite is L'Oreal Voluminous Carbon Black Mascara. It delivers clump-free, look-at-me lashes, and we can't get enough. Not only does it give us the blackest lashes to frame and add the finishing touch to our eye looks, but it never dries stiff , flakes or ends up making us look like raccoons. $7.50, drugstore.com

Anastasia Brow Gel isn't something we could easily live without. We know that well-groomed brows keep our look polished, and keeping them in place with just any brow gel won't do. Even with the best looking brows, we can't risk any embarrassing flakes showing up in the middle of the day or a product failing us. This amazing gel keeps our brows in place, never flakes and nourishes our brows with botanical and essential oils. So, needless to say, we only use this. Available in three shades. $21, sephora.com

This is a modern fragrance that captures the timeless couture spirit of Dior. A new interpretation of the original Miss Dior fragrance, Miss Dior Cherie combines pure couture spirit with the audacity of youthful, playful notes for a fresh approach to a timeless classic. Notes of chic, green tangerine, violette, and pink jasmine mingle with soft patchouli, musk, and delectably sweet strawberry leaves and caramelized popcorn for a delicious scent that's truly irresistible.

from $68, nordstrom.com

Honestly, if we could slather our entire bodies with this we would, but since it doesn't come in that big of a size, we will gladly settle for applying it to our faces, necks and decolletages each day and night. $44, amarteusa.com

To our delight, and inspired by the upcoming film Confessions of a Shopaholic, Too Faced Cosmetics has created a beauty palette for every glamour girl on the go. We love palettes, and this one looks fabulous, not to mention it's something to distract us while we wait in anticipation for the movie's release on February 13.

This must-have palette features 15 products, including 2 concealers, Face Powder, 3 eyeshadows, Eyeliner Powder, Eyebrow Powder, Duo Bronzer Powder, Blush Powder, 3 lip glosses, 2 application tools, and even a checklist; everything needed for glamorous movie-star lips, eyes, and face. $29.50 ulta.com

With soothing raspberry & chamomile, combined with sweet almond & algae extracts to help skin retain its natural moisture, "That Gal" only leaves our skin feeling soft and silky. We love that the light-reflecting pigments work to brighten our complexion with out being glittery-- what can we say? We can't get enough of it. Good bye dull skin! $28, sephora.com

Celebrate the new year by resolving to take chances with your hairstyles each day! Since a new year is a fresh start, it makes sense to make changes that will not only make us feel better, but help us look better as well. A new, healthier diet and exercise routine are typical, but still great, roads to head down. However, we feel that doing something good for ourselves in the beauty department can also help give just the right amount of "boost" to go out into the world with confidence!

Fekkai COIFF Celebration of Style set wraps up best-selling tress essentials and special Frederic Fekkai pro tips. Each product contains the key ingredients you need to create straight, tousled, or curly looks for any occasion, and one key product is included from each of COIFF's styling segments (Pre-Style, Style, and Finish). Whatever your mood, these products help make the mane to match!

This expert complexion solution uses extracts of Willow Bark to help renew skin, while Apricot Kernel and a hand-harvested biodynamic blend, straight from Jurlique's farms, gently slough away dull skin.

$35 spalook.com

Over at StyleBakery, we featured Tarte The Vanity because we couldn't miss the chance to share such an amazing deal with you. Today we think it would make a great gift! 

So, if you're still looking for that perfect gift, we suggest you look into purchasing Tarte's The Vanity Limited Edition Palette, being sold exclusively at Sephora. This amazing little kit is packed with everything (except foundation) to create an amazing face for day, night and anything in between. Take it on a trip, or keep it on the countertop. Whether you give it to your mom, your daughter, your niece or your best friend, she is sure to love this palette!

As a follow-up to last years' best-selling 'we wish you wealth' palette this limited-edition beauty treasure chest is back and better then ever! In addition to eyeshadows, lip glosses, and brushes galore, this year's kit also includes deluxe sizes of Tarte's best-selling Lights, Camera, Lashes! mascara and Mineral Powder Bronzer in Park Avenue Princess. All products are loaded with skinvigorating™ ingredients: vitamin E, beeswax, rice bran wax, carnauba wax, and mineral pigments.

This set features:
- 16 brand-new eyeshadows
- 16 brand-new lipglosses
- Deluxe Lights, Camera, Lashes! mascara
- Deluxe Mineral Powder Bronzer in Park Avenue Princess
- Deluxe luminizer
- Four powder blushes
- Deluxe eyeshadow
- Eyelining brushes

A $494 retail value, $52, sephora.com 

Bare Escentuals Ruby Collection is a limited-edition, nine-piece bareMinerals collection perfect for giving this holiday season. Any of us would love to find this wrapped up with a pretty bow!

Infused with real ruby powder to enhance your beauty with the same authentic, fascinating qualities of the ruby, these 100% pure bareMinerals eye and face colors will capture the vitality of ruby gemstones. The warm color palette of this collection, including brushes and a lip polish, provides you with a daily dose of luxury and a naturally radiant way to express the real you!

This Sephora-exclusive collection includes:
- bareMinerals Ruby Radiance All-Over Face Color (pink rose) infused with ruby
- bareMinerals Golden Ruby Eye Color (peach gold) infused with ruby
- bareMinerals Vintage Ruby Eye Color (rose fawn) infused with ruby
- bareMinerals Wild Ruby Liner Shadow (plum chocolate) infused with ruby
- Double-Ended Classic Black Mascara & Ruby Beautifully Luminous Lashes
- Ruby Buxom Big & Healthy Full Color Lip Polish (jeweled mauve)
- Soft Sweep Cheek Brush with custom handle
- Double-Ended Tapered Shadow & Eyeliner Brush with custom handle
- Stylish faux-crocodile Ruby Clutch

A $145 value you can get it now for only $54! sephora.com

We all love a good lip conditioner, so one that also gives our lips a hint of color is a major plus. There's no need for a mirror with these either, and with our on-the-go lifestyles, we couldn't ask for anything more. Well... maybe that L'Oreal would add an SPF to it-- then it would be perfect!  $9, drugstore.com

Wrap yourself in the sweet scents of stila's delightful new fragrance Mandarin Mist. This light, alluring, and sweet citrus fragrance is defined by notes of mimosa and yuzu fruit - the perfect blend for any day.

Stila Mandarin Mist is a fresh citrus scent with light flowery notes so refreshing it keeps our spirits up in the cold, gloomy weather!  We love this fragrance because it's not too overpowering, yet lasts all day. We have recieved so many compliments wearing it that it has become a more regularly worn scent. 1oz. $36, stilacosmetics.com

We happen to think that a GWP (gift with purchase) makes any shopping experience feel so much better. Not only do you end up with your own beauty picks, but you get to sample products you may not have purchased before, and in most cases, end up finding some new favorites!

If you agree, you'll love this news: For a limited time, with a $100 purchase, Beauty.com is offering a set of samples and full-size products in a beautiful, structured, woven case designed by Rachel Roy.

Take a look at what you will find in this limited-edition case:

·  Juice Beauty Oil-Free Moisturizer
·  Korres Basil Lemon Shower Gel
·  Fresh Sugar Lychee Body Lotion
·  Murad Firming Bronzer
·  PHYTO 7 Daily Hydrating Cream
·  Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion
·  Stila Eye Glaze in Kitten
·  Remede Alchemy Premium Night Cream
·  Arcona Cranberry Gommage
·  Fekkai Protein PM Repair Strengthener
·  Jane Iredale Pure Matte Transparent Powder
·  Nick Chavez Flocker
·  Prescriptives Super Line Preventor Xtreme

"I was inspired by the modern woman, who is equal parts feminine and strong," said Roy. "I paired a solid and sophisticated black exterior with a softer champagne satin interior in an effort to re-create this balance. I found this to be an extremely organic collaboration, as both Beauty.com and I design for the woman who, despite being on-the-go, remains ever so chic."

a $150 value, free with the purchase of $100 or more, beauty.com

We were actually surprised to find its staying power was like no other gloss we have ever used. The triangle sponge wand applies a beautiful, sheer color to our lips and never left them dried out. While the color does eventually disapper from our lips, if we let it, it will still stay on for an average of 3-4 hours-- that is enough to convince us this is a product we can't live without! $9.99, drugstore.com 

Global Goddess Beauty South Pacific Shimmer is not only a favorite of celebs like Sarah Jessica Parker, but it's one of our favorite products too! Of course we know we aren't as well-known around the world, or even recognizable out in public by those who don't know us, but we can appreciate the fact that we share the same great taste!

This multi-tasking bronzer features three hues of bronze and a soft dose of shimmer to illuminate and enhance the complexion, and is packaged in a slim, mirrored compact (say yes to purse-friendliness!). The pressed powder is ideal for complimenting a natural tan or creating a warmer tone in paler complexions. Blend all three shades together for a multi-dimensional, all-over hue, or layer your favorite colors for a bronze-themed eye shadow application. $32.50, dillards.com

On the fall runways the most buzzed-about color from this collection was Metro Chic. The smoky, greyish-purple really caught everyone's attention and shot to the top of everyone's must-have nail color list!

Believe it or not, this color sells out every time it becomes available on the Sephora website, and has become so popular, it's being sold on eBay for beyond-crazy prices!

Our advice? Don't buy it there just yet-- Sephora knows about the popularity, and is quick to restock once it's sold out. They'll even send you an email if you can't get it when you want it.

We love the versatility of Metro Chic because it is neutral enough to look great with bold color and bold enough to stand out against monochromatic looks. $9, sephora.com

Cosmedicine MegaDose is an amazing product that will not only keep your skin feeling smooth, but will treat your skin with healthy antioxidants to fight off all of the yucky free radicals our skin has to deal with each day. It also helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and hyperpigmentation.

While the price scared us a bit at first, we find that a little portion of this serum goes a long way -  we are really getting our money's worth - what a great thing!

1 fl oz, $80, sephora.com 

Some of us here battle acne, and find that we will do anything tho keep it at bay. Most of our efforts work, however, there is always that pesky little blemish that comes up when we least expect it. So what do we do? We zap it with our new Zeno Mini!

Perfect for your pocket or purse, Zeno Mini works just like the original to help most pimples improve in 24 to 48 hours. It works by applying precisely controlled low-level heat to a pimple, causing the bacteria within the pimple to self-destruct (take that zits!). Each treatment takes just two and a half minutes, and most pimples clear up within just two to three treatments. The installed Treatment Tip Cartridge contains 45 treatment cycles and is easily replaced once you've used them all. $89, drugstore.com  

If we ever have to choose a fragrance that makes us feel feminine and glamorous at the same time, it will be Givenchy Very Irresistible. With notes of roses including Centifolia Rose, Peony Rose and Fantasia Rose, we couldn't help but feel love at first smell when we were introduced to this amazing fragrance. It also has a spicy quality that perfectly complements the floral notes, making this a very modern, more grown-up floral.

from $19, sephora.com

Check out two products from the line that we are loving right now.

PlantLove Eye Liner glides on so smoothly we were amazed this was a pencil liner. It blended well, lasted all day and didn't smudge. It comes in six amazing shades, but we find ourselves loving (other than Black and Dark Brown) Bronze and Midnight Blue. $16, sephora.com

PlantLove Eye Shadows are highly pigmented and long-wearing. We love the variety of colors and blendable shades. It's unbelievable that these are "green" products, but we're convinced they're fabulous! $20, sephora.com

So, if you're looking to add more natural products to add to your makeup bag, we think you should check out PlantLove!

Besides being the must-have make up item for Fall 2008, Gloss Pur Black is a preview of a new formula which will launch in Spring 2009, in 6 radiant shades, full of pure color and high shine.

The new dark lip craze is in full swing now that YSL has released their new gloss. We are so excited to be able to dress up our dark pouts, and can only imagine the beautiful intensity this will give our typical burgundy and cranberry lips this season!

YSL GLOSS PUR Black Limited Edition, available online now, for only $28, yslbeautyus.com

Bioelements is a high-end, botanically-based skincare product line that uses plant extracts, trace minerals, aromatherapy oils and other natural ingredients to treat common skin concerns- everything from acne to wrinkles. All of their products are free of artificial colorants, synthetic fragrances and pore-clogging oils. These are a few Bioelements products that we are loving right now!

Bioelements Equalizer is an amazing toner that keeps skin well hydrated and looking fresh long after you spray it on. It will never leave your skin feeling tight or dried out thanks to ingredients like chamomile extract and ginseng. We like to spritz it on in the middle of the day to keep us looking fresh after long hours in front of a computer or a day of shopping for the best products!  $26, spalook.com

Bioelements Instant Emollient relieves even the driest of lips! We keep this by our bedside to ensure we wake up with soft, hydrated lips. This also works wonderfully as a prep fpr lipcolor- simpy apply when you begin your makeup routine, and by the time you are done and ready to add color to your lips, they are smooth and color-ready. $20, spalook.com 

Bioelements Oxygen Cocktail glides over our skin like silk, leaving it looking refreshed and feeling smooth. We apply it before moisturizer to ensure our skin looks its best all day. The moisture-binding hyaluronic acid blended with oxygen-boosting Tissue Respiratory Factor Complex creates the ultimate dynamic, effective duo for revitalized skin. $33.50, spalook.com  

Bioelements Sun Diffusing Protector SPF 15 provides our skin with the much needed broad-spectrum protection that we desire. It never feels greasy and didn't cause any breakouts. It's fast-absorbing and comes in a beautiful glass pump that looks fabulous on the counter top- the perfect place to remind us to use it daily. $47, spalook.com 

Bumble and bumble's Creme de Coco Masque will give your hair incredible moisture and leave you with the most silky soft, shiny hair imaginable.

The amazing smell is like a tropical getaway, and a great treat. Leave on for seven minutes or more, and you will notice while you're rinsing that your hair is in a state of bliss.

Formulated with shea and mango butters, this hair mask indulges tresses for the ultimate in deep conditioning. It's almost unbelieveable, but after using this you'll be unable to stop touching your hair! $24 

These days, more than ever, we are in search of the one product that will help us turn back the clock, or at least put our skin's aging process on pause for a few years. With new technology and scientifically advanced ingredients, products are able to show improvements in the way skin looks and behaves.

We love antioxadants, and know that any product that uses them as main ingredients will be nothing but good for our skin, even if it shows no results. Of course, that would defeat the purpose of using it because if a product claims to firm our skin and make us look younger, we expect to see younger looking, firmer skin. Do you know of any woman who uses a product for one reason when it claims to do another?

In any case, this product sounds promising, and from what we read about it, we know that women will flock to the stores in the hopes of turning the clock back, or at least slowing it down it for awhile. 

Super Line Preventor Xtreme Lifting Concentrate is a targeted concentrate that visibly lifts and firms skin. First, see a 49% immediate reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Then, see skin look more lifted by 58% after eight weeks. It even smoothes the appearance of larger wrinkles and deeper forehead lines. Featuring nutrient-rich Xtreme-Lift^TM Complex that works with skin's natural repair process to boost collagen production. With continued use, skin becomes firmer, more lifted-looking, and experiences an amazing transformation--both immediate and long-term. Non-acnegenic. Ophthalmologist/Dermatologist-tested. $38

NeoStrata Foaming Glycolic Wash
A soft cleansing foam that works wonders on blemishes.

NeoStrata Gel Plus
Not for the sensitive complexion, but an amazing difference when used on hands.

Exuviance by NeoStrata 
The patented Exuviance line of skincare products contains a unique combination of Alpha and Polyhydroxy acids, soothing botanicals and marine extracts to restore and moisturize the skin. Vitamins, antioxidants and sunscreens protect the skin against harmful environmental factors, free radicals and premature aging.

Exuviance SkinRise Morning Bionic Tonic 
An absolute favorite during our two week trials. Skin appears firmer almost immediately, and still remains moist and hydrated.

Exuviance Intensive Eye Treatment Pads
A gentle way to soothe, treat and reverse the signs of aging below the delicate eye area without any irritation.

Decelerate Professional Anti-Aging Protocol
The best approach to taking your first step toward a gentle glycolic regimen. Also, Decelerate is a great prep for skin before stronger glycolic treatments and products.

DDF 7-Day Radiance Peel Kit
The best at home peel kit we tested that delivered in just 7 days.