Saturday HOTNESS

July cover of Vanity Fair Magazine...


Angelina Jolie... pregnancy really does suit her! Angie gives the BEST face... sexy infused with old Hollywood glam... absolutely STUNNING!

Jurlique does Anti-Aging

I may be biased (considering that I am OBSESSED with every Jurlique product) but I am SO excited about Jurlique's new line, Biodynamic Beauty. They just did a really amazing webinar yesterday afternoon where they explained all about this incredible anti-aging collection (it is their first ever anti-aging line).


Here are the deets (how Gossip Girl of me, right?!):

• Beneficial results comparable to hi-tech, artificial anti-aging products – but with all natural formulations.
• Collection includes a Biodynamic Beauty Serum, Eye Cream, Night Lotion and Refining Treatment.
• Products are formulated with blends of biodynamic and organic herbs and flowers combined with potent, naturally derived ingredients to soften the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and discolorations while helping to renew and strengthen skin.
• Biodynamic Beauty creates a smooth, fresh, luminous complexion without aggravating, or altering the natural balance found within your skin cells.
• Products do NOT contain any harmful toxins including Parabens, Mineral Oils, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Synthetic Emulsifiers, Artificial Colors or Fragrances.

If you love organic, all-natural products as much as I do, then you MUST try this new line. Jurlique never disappoints (and always smells so fresh and so clean, clean)!

WEEKLY MUST-HAVE!

We love a product that does double duty... like Smashbox's Doubletake Lip Color - color on one side, lip pencil on the other. It's like two products for the price of one (and who doesn't love a good deal?!).

Our new find is no exception. Tarte's Enbrightenment is a genius new lippy from the Health Couture, Summer 2008 line. On one side it's a lip gloss, on the other, a tooth whitener... that's right... Brite Smile's teeth whitening formula is actually housed on the other side of the lip gloss... how amazing is that?!

The Enbrightenment lippies comes in two shades: Radiant Red and Pearly Pink. We love the pearly pink... it's a healthy dose of pink with the perfect pinch of shine!

A word (or several...) from the company:
"BriteSmile® and tarte cosmetics have teamed up to give you something to grin about: a healthy smile. With just a few clicks of this double-ended whitening & brightening wand you’re sure to reach new levels of kiss bliss. The tarte t5 super fruit lip gloss is a proprietary blend of the five most active super fruits: goji, acai, maracuja, acerola and pomegranate."

Okay, so, yes, this is a gimmicky product... but it's one that actually works! Both the gloss and the tooth-whitener are legitimate, quality products infused into one perfectly convenient tube!

Bronzed skin, glossy lips and pearly whites... the perfect summer face!

Summer Face 2008

We all know how AWFUL the sun is for our faces, so make a vow to yourself... THIS SUMMER, I WILL NOT ALLOW THE SUN TO PENETRATE THROUGH MY FRAGILE FACE. I will take precautions when tanning (use SPF that protects against UVA AND UVB rays), and I will treat my skin with the love and care that it deserves...
So, please, I BEG YOU, use an alternative... bronzer, mystic tan (although I despise the orange hue), buildable color moisturizer, or tinted moisturizer.

Here are a few of our favorites:


Benefit's You Rebel gives good summer face. It's a tinted moisturizer with SPF 15 and it adds just the right amount of gold (without looking super fake) to your skin. **TIP** Try mixing it with a touch of foundation for an even, flawless, bronzed complexion with added coverage!


Chanel's Soleil Lame Tinted Bronzing Gel is lightweight and basic. It's a gel (which I love... doesn't cake) that glides onto the skin to produce an even tan sans the sun. The color is natural and the gel absorbs without the shine of tinted moisturizers. Great for oily complexions!

Tarte Hotel Heiress is a long time favorite. It's a powder bronzer (mineral) and I swear, it gives off the best damn sun-kissed effect. I've tried many a bronzers and this one continues to be an everyday must-have. It doesn't give off that sparkle, fake tan look... this bronzer is way more matte and truly au natural.

Glow Fusion is another favorite from last year. It's the closest thing to a mystic tan (that I've found) AND you can do it yourself... at home! BONUS: It doesn't give you that nasty, orange spray-tan look! The color is actually amazingly bronze! And if you follow the directions, it really does give you even, precise color.


Physicians Formula Pearls of Perfection Multi-Colored Bronzer is fantastic for those porcelain skinned folks out there. It has a pink undertone to offset the gold so it doesn't appear too fake (instead it gives off a "warm" finish). I love the consistency - it's soft and smooth - and it really leaves skin glowing. The pearls are also incredibly fun to play around with... it's like a combination of loose powder (very potent) and pressed powder (matte, and not as messy). And you can't beat the price: $11.95.

Bobbi Brown Bronze Shimmer Brick Compact is shimmery and glittery and full of iridescent fun! Personally, I don't like loads of shimmer in my bronzer, but for those of you who do, this is the bronzer to get. It has five shades, all ranging in golden hues, and it mixes together quite brilliantly to produce a healthy, vibrant, glowing face. I do, however, love this product as an added highlighter atop my matte bronzing powder. It really does create a gorgeous, golden dimension to the skin.

SPLENDID Sunday Reads....

SHOPPING

CelebLOOK is in love with Gwyneth Paltrow's shoes and finds a similar pair for us all.
Style It Less copied Gwyneth Paltrow's Yummy Mommy look for less than $105The Well-Heeled Society is collaborating with Victoria's Secret to host a pink-infused, Sex and the City Shoe Drive to benefit Dress For Success
Wardrobe Oxygen offers some suggestions on how to add feminine and romantic elements to a classic wardrobe.
eye4style can't wait for the new Sex and the City flick! These gorgeous images of Carrie and Big from Vogue tide her over...
STYLEnosh wonders why it's sooo hard to find cute navy shoes.

BEAUTY

Aging Fabulous discovers Redpoint Beauty and shares her most wanted products from the line.
A Touch of Blusher gets the "false-eyelash treatment" from YSL.
eBeautyDaily is checking out Redpoint Advanced Color Cosmetics.
Beauty Banter reviews the skincare line that Halle Berry, Naomi Watts, Jennifer Garner, Kristin Davis, and Amanda Bynes use on their A-list faces!
makeup loves me wants to know what you thought of the makeup looks in the gossip girl season finale.
15 Minute Beauty Fanatic gets a really close look at her skin, now and in the future!
TheScentedLife takes a retro trip to 1978 and rediscovers Estee Lauder White Linen.
Raging Rouge now understands why Americans and Canadians get along so famously... They share their beauty secrets, like AG Hair Cosmetics!

FASHION

She Knows Best lists the fashion tips for Men 5'8 and Under from Alan Au.
Style Tots thinks Rachel Fox is a ray of sunshine in yellow.
The Latest Luxe is ready to turn up the heat and count down to summer in these Manolo Blahnik leopard sandals.
Snarkstress finds the fun in the wacky head-toppers worn last weekend at a Royal wedding. See if you get a laugh from them, too.
Teen Style Lounge has found the one watch you need this summer...on the cheap!
Let's Go Shopping is giving away 2 Sex And The City Bracelets Worth $274
The Fashionable Kiffen heralds the arrival of summer with tons of cute sandal picks.
What do Angelina, Gwen and Jessica love wearing during their pregnancies? Check out Hot Mama Daily to find out!

Weekend Beauty Reads...

Raging Rouge gets tips and tricks for Spring makeup application from stylist Jenny Smith of NARS Cosmetics.
Need a new hair brush? Cybelesays is loving the new paddle one from Metropolis.
Makeup Moxie reviews Tarte 4 Day Stay Lash Stain mascara.
The Daily Cookie gives you a step-by-step tutorial on how to get Madonna's Hard Candy album cover look with the help of Shu Uemura makeup artist Nicky Posley.
A Touch of Blusher gets the "false-eyelash treatment" from YSL.
Beauty Anonymous is very tempted by the Hair Spray from Anna Sui!
Kitiya from Mischo Beauty discusses hair texture in her “Mischo Beauty School: Hair Texture 101” post!
Want to win a whopping $824 in products? Then head to The Beauty of Life immediately for a supremely fantastic giveaway!
Joy from Makeup Junkie shares Prom beauty trends and tips!
The Muse checks up on jolly old England and brings you the latest news of Eyeko's Summer Collection 2008!
Beauty Banter tells YOU how to achieve your best brows... 7 easy tips!
Beauty411 opens her little black beauty book and reports on an incredible facial at the ARCONA Studio in Santa Monica.
Beauty Blogging Junkie reports on the Total Beauty Blogger Summit in L.A. last weekend and on a trip to Anastasia's Salon, one of the stops on the Total Beauty beauty tour of L.A.
StyleBell shows how you too can get The Hills inspired Side Ponytail as seen on Lauren Conrad and Nicole Ritchie.
makeup loves me wants to help you look hot this summer. but she knows you may be lazy like her. hence, she offers you a cheater's guide to a summer body.
15 Minute Beauty Fanatic checks out the "New It Flat Iron"?
The Makeup Divas tells you about a Hot Lip Balm that Lauren Conrad of The Hills loves to use to keep her lips glossy.
Face Candy reviews Bobbi Brown's newest scent, Almost Bare.
Don't let humidity ruin your blow-out! Glossypink has found a serum that will help your blow-out stay sleek and fabulous!
All Lacquered Up reviews the OPI Mod About Brights collection and discovers a creepy resemblance to a victim from Showtime's Dexter.
Pursebuzz.com is having a HUGE contest. Be sure to stop by for a chance to win my top favorite brushes from Coastalscents.com. Gimme Gimme. Good Luck!!!
Toya's started a new series: "Bronzers for Brown Girls" where she'll be discussing the best bronzers for those of us who have deeper skintones. First up: Stila Sun Bronzer SPF 15 !
The 80’s is back in a big way, inspiring new trends in fashion and beauty. So how do you embrace this trend without looking like a Dynasty reject? Three Custom Color Specialists has the perfect product and Spoiled Pretty is giving it away. Enter the giveaway today!

The Skinny on a Good Brow...

Self-proclaimed, "Queen of Eyebrows," NYC's Boom Boom Beauty Bar offers some excellent brow tips...

Here are our faves:

1 A perfectly done brow is an instant eyelift -- no Botox necessary.

2 There is NO such thing as natural beauty! Brows need as much attention
as any other part of your beauty regimen. INVEST!!

3 Hollywood legends are legendary for a reason, think Liz Taylor,
Brooke Shield's and J'Lo's brows...find a brow that works for you and copy it.
Just steer clear of "The Unibrow!"

4 Everyone has a tendency to get carried away when tweezing. Boom Boom
doesn't believe in a thin brow or a thin woman!

5 Your brows are sisters, not twins! They will never be identical, they
should be proportionate, not exactly the same.

6 Your eyebrow's frame your face. If your brows are too far apart, it will
create the illusion that your nose looks wider - yikes!

7 Brow pencil usually looks fake. Use brow powder to fill in the brow only
where there is hair. Unless you want to look like your Aunt Audrey, powder
it and keep it real!

And for brows that we'd want to emulate, check out Ms. Natalie Portman from the Cannes Film Festival... she is beyond gorge, and her eyebrows really do frame those incredible brown eyes... HOTNESS!



And here's a pair of eyebrows NOT to emulate... in fact, stay far away from trying to duplicate anything about this sad disaster (that hair, those roots, that eye makeup, OH MY)...



Who do YOU think has the best brows? Leave your choice for best celeb brows in the comment box below!

Boom Boom Beauty Bar is located at 35 7th Ave. NY, NY 10011 (212) 229-2666

FiFi 2008

The FiFi Awards (Fragrance Foundation) were held on Tuesday night in New York City. Vera Wang received the Hall of Fame Award.

Says the FiFi President, Rochelle Bloom, “Vera Wang is, and continues to be, a tremendous influence in the fragrance industry. Vera's contributions include the highly successful Vera Wang, Sheer Veil, Bouquet, and Truly Pink fragrances as well as the most recent introduction of Vera Wang Princess and Flower Princess. Throughout her career, Vera has been recognized for her significant achievements in fashion and on behalf of the entire fragrance industry, we are honored to present her with the prestigious Hall of Fame award.”

Congrats to Vera!

Some of the other nominees included:

Bath & Body Line of the Year

Aromatherapy Sleep Collection – Bath & Body Works
L’eau D’Issey Pour Homme – Beauté Prestige International
Mangosteen Bath Collection – Fresh
***Origins Organics – Origins Natural Resources*** WINNER
Prada Infusion d’Iris – Puig Beauty & Fashion Group

**Don't really agree with any of these choices... I adore the small, home-made companies like Product Body and Pure Necessities! Stop the conglomerates!!!

Fragrance of the Year – Women’s Nouveau Niche

Bond No. 9 New York Andy Warhol Silver Factory (unisex) – Bond No. 9 New York
Bond No. 9 New York Bryant Park – Bond No. 9 New York
Gucci by Gucci – P&G Prestige Products, Inc.
***Prada Infusion d’Iris – Puig Beauty & Fashion Group*** WINNER
Versace – EuroItaly

Fragrance of the Year – Women’s Luxe

Chanel Chance Eau Fraîche – Chanel
Coach – BeautyBank
***Daisy Marc Jacobs – Coty Prestige*** WINNER
Dolce & Gabbana the one – P&G Prestige Products, Inc.
Emporio Armani Diamonds – Giorgio Armani Parfums
Kelly Calèche – Hermès
Nina by Nina Ricci – Puig Beauty & Fashion Group

Do YOU own/ wear any of these fragrances? Do you even care about the ceremony???

Celebs in attendance at the 2008 FiFi Awards ("the Oscars of fragrance") included Minka Kelly, Kim Raver, Dannity Kane, and Taylor Momsen (of our fave show, Gossip Girl! pictured below)

How cute is her hair?! Side bun... messy, side-swept bangs... the Spring Hair Trend is here in full effect!

A-List Skincare

There's only one thing better then the Kinara Spa skincare line... the actual spa! Until we get the real deal, we'll settle for this...

Kinara first opened on Robertson Boulevard in 2003. It has since been a celebrity-flocked frenzy seeing the likes of such A-listers as Halle Berry, Naomi Watts, Jennifer Garner, Kristin Davis, and Amanda Bynes. The spa is said to be an oasis of relaxation and rejuvenation... the skincare line is pretty incredible too.

I recently tried the Kinara oily skin line: Purifying Cleansing Gel with green apple, Balancing Tonic with salicylic acid, Lemon Eycalyptus Hydrator, and Lactic Acid Hydrating Serum. The products are gentle and fresh, all working in conjunction to unclog and refine pores, reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles, hydrate and soothe the skin.

My absolute favorite product is the Lactic Acid Hydrating Serum. Says the company, "This light, penetrating serum is an age-fighting powerhouse blend of purifying and anti-aging ingredients. This multi-benefit serum combats skin eruptions, unclogs and refines pores and rejuvenates damaged skin." It's not an oil, so it won't make your already oily skin more oily. It actually completely soaks into the skin leaving your face hydrated and glowing. It's truly extraordinary! PRICE TAG: $70.00

Kinara also makes products for dry, sensitive, and acne-prone skin types. If you click HERE you can find custom skin programs designed to fight whatever skin ailment you are dealing with.

Your face deserves the A-list treatment... and you can have it all from the comfort and privacy of your own bathroom!

WEEKLY MUST-HAVE!

I'm a huge fan of products that offer the same/ similar results as having a service rendered, yet you can use the product from your own house (much easier then driving to an office) AND it's usually way cheaper!

For example, a really great skin lightener as oppose to laser treatment, an amazing "wrinkle eraser" instead of botox, an awesome lip plumper instead of that painful restylane.  A teeth whitening product as oppose to the dentist office (who doesn't loathe the dentist, right?)...  Okay, you get the point.

A couple of weeks ago, a friend of mine was raving about Listerine's Whitening Pre-Brush Rinse. She couldn't believe how much whiter her teeth had been looking... and the compliments she was receiving, well, let's just say that a compliment is solid insurance that she'll be buying the rinse again.

Of course, I just had to try the rinse for myself... and let me tell you, I see major results!  My pearly whites are way whiter and my mouth is bursting with freshness!  I've used regular Listerine for years, and always loved the way it made my mouth feel.... this rinse is no exception!  I love that you use it prior to brushing your teeth because it really seems to "wake up" my mouth!  And it has a pretty cool taste too (I mean, would you expect anything less???)!

A word (or several...) from the company:

"The dynamic foaming action of LISTERINE® WHITENING® bursts into action, penetrating teeth to help prevent stain buildup and whiten your smile. "

About $8.00 for the bottle.... and worth it!

Weekend Beauty Reads...

Christine at 15 Minute Beauty Fanatic shares her tip for fast and easy pefect manicures and pedicures!
Beauty Anonymous shares her first impressions of Chanel Summer 2008 Makeup Collection!
Makeup Moxie reviews Hourglass Superficial Lash mascara.
Cybelesays finds their next addition to the Hall of Fame! A straightening iron that gets strands stick straight.
StyleBell reviews one of the best flat irons on the market the GHD. Move over CHI!
A Touch of Blusher can't decide which new eye palette to get...
Savvy Skin picks her favorite drugstore sunscreen - Blue Lizard sunscreen.
Beauty and Personal Grooming writes about Aspirin face masks.
Beauty Blogging Junkie scores an exclusive interview with Daisy Fuentes about her new perfume, Dianoche Ocean.
Face Candy dishes on the brand new Vincent Longo Collection- Shimmer, Glimmer & Shine.
The Makeup Divas reviews Sue Devitt's Eye Intensifier Pencil in Zaire.
The Muse reviews Majorca Majolica's HOT Summer Collection from Japan and shares a FOTD!
Beauty Banter checks out more Spring Hair Trends... with pics and products!
Hello Dollface features Celebrity fashion and beauty!
Beauty Junkie in SF scopes out hot new makeup from Kat Von D
Want to achieve cream blush perfection? Karen from Makeup and Beauty Blog shows you the only brush you need for a flawless, airbrushed look: Sonia Kashuk's Flat Top Blusher Brush.
Nars takes Joy from Makeup Junkie to South Beach thanks to The Multiple in South Beach!
This week, Spoiled Pretty is giving you a chance to win SPINLASH - the mascara with a rotating brush that simultaneously separates, curls, coats, lengthens and volumizes eyelashes. Intrigued? Of course you are. Enter right now!
Toya does her Mother's Day FOTD with products from the Sally Hansen Natural Beauty line (inspired by Carmindy)!

More Sex in a NEW City

We're definitely feeling SJP's look here at the Berlin premiere of Sex and the City Movie from May 15, 2008.

The side bun is fun and flirty (thank God she got rid of the flower pot atop her head... and as we keep mentioning, buns are ALL the rave for spring!) and her makeup is fresh and youthful (we're loving the nude gloss). And on a little fashion tip, this dress is 100 percent better then that lime green disaster she wore in London.

All in all, SJP scores an 8 out of 10!

What do YOU think?

WHO GIVES BEST SEXY FACE?!?

If you're a woman (or a gay man) living in America, you're probably counting down the days until the highly anticipated Sex and the City Movie (14 days to go!) premieres....

And if you're like me, one of the main reason you're so stoaked to see the movie is because you just can't wait to have a look at all the fabulous fashion and beauty trends!

So, as a little fashion and beauty preview, Beauty Banter wants to know... who do YOU think gave best face at the London premiere of Sex and the City: The Movie!


Sarah Jessica Parker (what the f*^# is that thing on her head?!? A flower pot?!)


Cynthia Nixon (love the side boob action... who knew lesbians had such sexy style?!)


Kim Cattrall (ehhh... the hair do makes her look 50... which she probably is, but still, don't you always wanna look younger?!)


Kristen Davis (very Charlotte-esque - simple, a wee boring, and very safe).

We vote for Cynthia Nixon! How about you?



Pics from the London premiere, May 12, 2008

Another Take on the Spring Hair Trend

As I mentioned in the Shiri Appleby post, the "bun/ braid" look is perfect for Spring... easy, care-free, and super sexy.

Beauty Banter contributing editor, Di Gaeta, shows us her take on the new do! Di says the style took her all of 5 minutes... her hair is in that "growing out" phase and she wants it out of her face as it continues to grow. So she pulled the back to the nape of her neck, pinned with bobby pins, then took her bangs and braided them to the side - not a french braid - just a regular old-fashioned braid.




Di says the trick is not letting the hair look too "done-up." Wispy's and fly-away pieces make the style that much more beachy and summer-chic! Di also added a head band for a more sophisticated, night-time effect.

She used Wen by Chaz Dean as a styling cream on dry hair. Says Di, "I rubbed a dollop on my hands and worked it into my bangs. It has a similar effect as a pomaide - giving my hair texture so that the braid holds."

How cute is this do?!


Do you have your own take on this Spring hair trend? We want to see! Email pics to: beautybanter@gmail.com.

Thymes' Red Cherry Body Care

The new Thymes collection is amazing! Red Cherry is all the rave for Summer - fresh, fruity, ripe, and full of sweetness! When I open up my scrub and take a whiff of the wonderful pomegranate, red cherry, passion fruit, and jasmine, I can't help but think of sun-soaked days and summer nights!

The collection includes Exfoliating Body Scrub ($27), AHA Body Lotion ($28), Liquid Foaming Bath ($23), and Body Wash ($19). I've only tried the scrub and lotion.

The Scrub is incredible... the sugar crystals exfoliate without being too harsh (the consistency is like a battered sugar cookie mix), leaving skin smooth and silky. This is a great everyday scrub as it is gentle and calming.



The Lotion is good too, although the smell is very overwhelming, but I like that it includes AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) which further helps to get rid of dead skin cells while also moisturizing the skin. It also contains shea butter, vitamin E, and passion fruit extracts (known to calm the skin).



WARNING: This is a very potent scented product line, so if you're not into fragrance, you probably won't be into these products.

The Ongoing Fight to Erradicate Blackheads...

Conquering acne can literally seem like fighting a long, hopeless war... Sometimes you win a battle, most times you lose. That's why we need to come armed with the best and most reliable products on the market!

My current mission: A face mask strong enough to destroy and detonate blackheads....



My find: DDF's Sulfur Therapeutic Mask. This mask is a necessary addition to your weekly skin routine, especially if you suffer from oily skin and congested pores.

Sulfur is an amazing ingredient for problem skin. Back in the day - like wayyyy back - Grecians used sulfur to treat rosacea, dermatitis, and dandruff. Nowadays, sulfur is added to products because it contains anti-microbial, anti-fungal and antiseptic properties that are great for treating acne and unclogging those viciously clogged pores.

DDF's mask also contains aloe vera, which soothes the skin (great for sensitive, oily types), and purified clay to dry the oil glands. The mask hardens in about 10 minutes and once I rinsed it off (warm water, pat- not rubbed - dry), my skin was smooth, refreshed, glowing... and, the beat part, my pores actually appeared smaller!!!

Mission accomplished.... blackheads demolished!

Friends of mine have raved about DDF's entire product line.... the mask is the first item that I've tried but I'm definitely going to be stocking up on some of their other facial goodies!

Price Tag: $34.00 for a 4 oz. tub of clay

Do you have a favorite DDF product that I just have to try?!? Let me know!

Weekend Beauty Duty

Here are the top beauty reads from around the beauty blogging community!

Product Girl is giving away 4 goodie bags from the upcoming Sex and the City movie! Check out Product Girl for more information.
StyleBell shows you how to make some serious waves with your flat iron.
Beauty Anonymous reveals the jelly pinkness of the Tracy Reese for Sally Hansen Spring 2008 Salon Collection !
Raging Rouge announces the MAX Factor May Makeover giveaway. Over $750 of MAX Factor products will be divided up between TEN winners on May 17th. Good luck!
SugarShock Beauty has a newfound love for foundation: the makeup artist- and Madge-approved Face Atelier Ultra Foundation.
The Muse whispers in your ear about Benefit's Newest Cheek Stain for Summer! Pssttttt! Enjoy the first ever images, product photos, and swatches from a link available at Musings!
This mascara ended A Touch of Blusher's mascara search...
Beauty411 reviews Soaptopia, a bath line that promised to be "100% junk free"! Check it out!
Beauty Blogging Junkie schools you on how to avoid snaggy, dry lips.
Looking for skin care products that deliver results? Read The Makeup Divas review of the Somme Institute Skin Care Line.
Beauty and Fashion Tech is giving away two sets of John Frieda Lustrous Touch Shampoo and Conditioner. One for blonde hair and one for brunette.
At Girl Gloss, you can win a set of seven Classic Badger Balm Lip Balms.
Beauty Junkie in SF is on her way to a flawless face with the help of a new high-tech skincare system.
The Beauty of Life brings you the highs and lows from the celebs' beauty looks at the Costume Institute Gala.
Beauty Banter dishes on the new Spring Hair Style and actress Shiri Appleby models the look!
Need a nail intervention but can't afford regular trips to the salon? Glossypink goes there to get great nails.
What makes you feel your most beautiful? Toya at The Life of A Ladybug wants to know!
Kitiya from Mischo Beauty helps you determine if you’re a candidate for microdermabrasion!
A reader at makeup loves me claims to have gone up one cup size by using victoria's secret bust enhancer!
Makeup Moxie finds Complexion Perfection when she reviews the foundation and concealer duo compact by Global Goddess.
Face Candy reviews NARS Orgasm Multiple, Lip Gloss and Nail Polish.
The Muse whispers in your ear about Benefit's new cheek stain and has a link to swatches!.
Karen from Makeup and Beauty Blog Gets a Surprise Stage Makeup Makeover with Kryolan Professional Makeup.
Pursebuzz.com does a step by step tutorial on how to create that extra dramatic smokey eye look as seen on Gwen and Fergie and everyone on the red carpet.
What has a delectable chocolate fragrance when you smooth it on that morphs into a fresh, powdery scent once it sinks in? Spoiled Pretty tells you what it is and why you need to try it!
Cybelesays gets to the Shea of Things with their picks of the best Shea Butter products out there.
15 Minute Beauty Fanatic gives you the low down on Kristin Davis's makeup for the SATC publicity tour!

SPLENDID Saturday Reads....

SHOPPING

Style Tots has Suri Cruise's Ladybug shoes that Oprah liked so much.

Style It Less gives you 10 Cameron Diaz's red pumps for less

Let's Go Shopping finds some Great Deals at Ferro Cosmetics

My Wardrobe Today reviewsvarious popular foundation and face products.

eye4style loves Balenciaga bags AND the trend of invite-only, online sample sales, so she offers up an exclusive invite to Rue La La for readers.

Teen Style Lounge shares a must-have workout DVD for a summer slim bod.

BEAUTY

This mascara ended A Touch of Blusher's mascara search...

Raging Rouge announces the MAX Factor May Makeover Giveaway. Over $750 of MAX Factor products will be divided among TEN winners!

Beauty Banterdishes on the most important moisturizer for oily/ acne prone complexions... and it's less then 10 dollars!

get to know marina from makeup loves me a little bit better, as she shares all her beauty secrets with you!

15 Minute Beauty Fanatic gives you the products that Billy B uses on SATC's Kristen Davis!

FASHION

She Knows Best thinks A Little Shoe Change Didn’t Hurt John Mayer

The Latest Luxe is having Double the Fun in Christian Louboutin Slingbacks

The Fashionable Kiffen has a whole bunch of Mother's Day gift ideas.

Wardrobe Oxygen suggests some ways to look polished at work during the summer heat.

STYLEnosh is asking, Are you a style hater?"

Why did Michelle Tractenberg, J. Lo, Lauren Bush and Fergie Have all give the cold shoulder at the Costume Institute Ball? Haute and Bothered's got the dish

Have you voted in the Snarkstress's Fashion Icon poll yet? Katie Holmes and Reese Witherspoon are neck and neck, but after recent photos of Katie Holmes in NYC, you just may be swayed.

Mother's Day Gift Ideas

Sunday is the day that we celebrate our mothers. Well, every day we should be celebrating the brave and amazing women that brought us onto this earth, but Sunday is the official day.

So, what token of appreciation have you purchased for your mommy dearest?!?

Here's some beauty products that make purrrfect gifts:

How about mom's favorite skin care products? La Prairie, La Mer, Clinique... these are gifts that she'll actually use! Just sneak into her bathroom and raid the beauty cabinets! And if you still can't figure it out, all mom's love a heavy duty facial moisturizer. Pick up Skyn's Stress Defense Cream with Biospheric Complex. It reduces fine lines and wrinkles while relaxing tension lines and brow furrows. Antioxidants and ferulic acid help protect skin against pollution, ozone, and light damage. Mom's skin will thank-you! Retails for $100.00

A good perfume is always a safe choice. Try any of the alluring scents from Miller Harris, London perfumers. They have floral, citrus, musk, and everything in between! I like the Fleur Oriental - it's strong, bold, and completely intoxicating. Whenever I wear it, I feel like a Parisian woman prancing along the Champs Elysees. A nice, big bottle of 3.4 oz. retails for around 52 pounds, or roughly 104 dollars.



You can never go wrong with a gorgeous, potent candle. Voluspa's Sake Lemon Flower is divine! It comes in the sleek black-laquered tumbler and burns for hours (85 to be exact). And the aura is a combination of sake, italian lemon flower, hawaiian coconut milk, tart pineapple and verbena. Can you think of anything more delicious... well, maybe a quick Island Holiday, but that may be a tad over your budget! Retails for $22.00.



Bath oil from Jo Malone is the gift that keeps on giving... being a mother is a stressful job! A nice, soothing bath is the perfect remedy. I love the Lime Basil & Mandarin scent. The smell is fresh ans zesty and the oil moisturizes the skin. They have about another dozen scents to choose from... 250 ml retails for $60.00

We want to know... what did you buy mom for the big day?!

Prescriptives: Summer 2008

All over bronze shimmer. Earth tones infused with bright blues and deep purples. Sun-kissed cheeks. Ripe lips.

Hotness. Sizzling hot.

Prescriptives Summer 2008 Collection, Urban Heat, is sexy, playful, sun-soaked and bold. it's everything we'd want... and then a some extra shimmer added in for good measure!

Here's the line:

Colorscope Lip Gloss **NEW**
"Glides onto lips for extraordinary shine and a sheer finish. The ultra-smooth, lightweight texture leaves lips feeling soft, moist and smooth."

• Trendy (Y/O)
• Sporty (Y/O)
• Gutsy (R/O)
• Feisty (R/O)
• Giggly (R)
• Sassy (R)
• Stylish (B/R)
• Edgy (B/R)

Kohl Eye Pencil **LIMITED EDITION**
A super-soft eye liner with great color pay-off defines, lines, colors and contours the eyes. It allows just enough playtime to achieve a smoky, smudgy look or a dramatically defined one.

• Blue Grotto
• Purple Rain

Colorscope Eye Color
This longwearing, silky formula blends evenly for a subtly contoured look and a stunning, jewel-like effects.

• NEW Plum Noir (B/R)
• NEW Aegean (Y/O)
• Golden (Y/O)
• Iced Cider (Y/O)
• Frosting (R/O)
• Satin (R)
• Sunbaked (R)
• Platinum (R)

Colorscope Creamy Eye Color
A longwearing cream eye shadow that stays color-true all day long without creasing. This easy to blend formula in sparkling shades of gold and gunmetal can be customized as a soft sheen or layered with any Colorscope Eye Color as a base for multi-effects.

• NEW Lychee (Y/O)
• Smoking Gun (R)

Here To Stay 24-Hour Longwear Mascara
The ultra-comfortable formula is waterproof when worn alone or water-resistant over your favorite Prescriptives mascara…perfect for beating the summertime heat!

• Black
  

Colorscope Lipcolor
A moisturizing, shiny and luscious formula in shades of mocha, bronze and shimmering plum.

• NEW Majorcan Sand (Y/O)
• Chocolate Frost (Y/O)
• True Bronze (R/O)
• Berry Oodles (R)

Click HERE to get your look: warm or cool, colors to match.

Available NOW at a Prescriptives counter near you!

I can't wait to try out these colors! Already have some must-have picks from the line? Let us know!

WEEKLY MUST-HAVE!

My dermo told me about a moisturizer that she proclaimed works better then Cetaphil for oily skin.... GASP! What??? Better then Cetaphil? And I thought that Cetaphil held the trophy for best moisturizer in the biz (for oily/ acne skin types)!



Well, it looks like we're passing the torch. Tried and tested, Olay Complete All Day Moisture Lotion with SPF 15 is our new favorite! And it is a must-have for ANYONE suffering from oily, sensitive, problem skin! Unlike Cetaphil, Olay Complete totally absorbs into the skin... this is VERY important for oily complexions!

Here's why I like it:
It's light and non-greasy (in other words, it won't just sit on the surface, it soaks in)
Non-Comedogenic (won't clog pores)
Oil-Absorbing Powder (so that surface oils are banished immediately and skin is left matte and unshiny... like blotting papers!) **this is my fave aspect of the moisturizer**
Antioxidant Vitamin E plus C
100% Oil Free
100% PABA Free

I highly recommend this moisturizer for anyone suffering from oily, acne-prone and/or problem skin. It does not disappoint. And it really does hydrate without over-moisturizing or leaving skin shiny.

The Complete moisturizer also comes in sensitive, normal, and dry skin formulas.

Price: $8.85 for 4.0 FL OZ

Famous Face Palettes

Julie Hewett's face palettes are all the rave in Hollywood. With four colors, for everything from lips to cheeks to highlighting - you really don't need much more then this. And especially if you're a girl on the go with minimal makeup time, this palette will become your lifesaver! It takes the guessing work out of getting made up!

Julie Hewett is a celebrity makeup artist that has painted the faces of such stars as Nicole Kidman, Liv Tyler, Kate Beckinsale, and Mandy Moore (Julie designed a palette specifically for Mandy while filming "Because I said so..." aptly called, Mandy.)

Julie's newest palette, The Ursula, pays homage to Bond girl, Ursula Andress. Says Hewett, "it features a collection of rich, earthy shades that are as sexy and glamorous as the 70’s actress herself, but also extremely wearable.”



In the palette you'll receive:

• Cleo: a sparkly bronze shimmy
• Mimi: a shimmering sheer gloss
• Neon Rose: a bright pink powder blush
• Natural: a perfect hint of brown cheekie for eyes and lips

I adore this palette... it's great for Spring with it's pinks and golds and shimmers. And the makeup has such an incredible consistency... it glides right on and stays put! I really love the sheer mauve gloss... it's a barely-there color that adds such glorious sheen to your pout!

The palette sells for $48.00.

HOTNESS

When I grow up, I want a body like Giselle and a boyfriend that looks like Tom Brady.



I am printing out this picture and taping it to my fridge. This way every time I go in for a snack, I will seriously think twice before eating it.
Oh yeah, and her hair and makeup look amaze (I love how she's wearing her hair back so that her gorgeous face is the focal point... talk about great cheekbones)! But the body... and the boy... damn, that's just pure hotness! If only they could package and sell it...

Picture is from last night's Costume Institute Gala in NYC.

Shiri Appleby: Spring Hair Trend

We're all looking for a quick and simple way to wear our hair. We want something easy yet still sexy.

Sometimes, we're just not in the mood to do the whole blow out thing. Or, our hair is dirty and we just don't feel like washing it. Come on, you know you've been there...

Well, here's a great style that's super easy, fast, and absolutely fabulous! After all, Springs about minimizing your makeover time while still looking fierce!

Actress Shiri Appleby showed off her new Summer do at our friend Wells Butler's (owner of the amazing clothing line Primp) engagement party. It's a contemporary take on a favorite hair style: the bun! This bun, however, got a little makeover: a french braid!

Shiri says, "I love this style because it's modern and chic, yet still classic. Having your hair away from your face is somehow freeing." (not to mention it allows her natural beauty to shine through!)

In a collaborative effort, Shiri and I put together this style in a matter of minutes! Shiri did the braid, I did the bun.

the braid

the bun

the hotness

Here's how to achieve the look in a five, quick steps:

1 - Separate the front corner section of your hair from the back.
2 - Take the back bit and wrap it into a messy bun (pin up dangling pieces with a few bobby pins).
3 - French braid the front section from the left ear to the right.
4 - Take the tail of the braid and attach it to the bun with a bobby pin.
5 - Spritz a little hair spray for added hold.

It's that easy!

This is a style that you can rock anywhere at anytime and still look super sexy!

BEAUTY BANTER ON NYMAG.COM!!!

New York Magazine's highly coveted online section, The Cut, mentioned our clean feet post in their Beauty Marks!

They say: "You know how walking around the city in flip-flops all day in the summer makes your feet, like, black? Well Earth Therapeutics created Clean + Cool Foot Wipes, infused with tea tree oil and wild mint to clean dirt and revive overworked feet. They come in packs of fifteen for six dollars so throw 'em in your pocketbook! (Beauty Banter)"

How exciting! Thanks for the shout-out, nymag.com!

To read the rest of the article, click HERE.

Weekend Beauty Reads...

Spoiled Pretty is giving away $1,400 worth of beauty products to one lucky bride-to-be. And if you're a future wedding belle from the Philadelphia area, we've got something for you too. Enter right away - contest ends May 4th.


Find out how The Daily Cookie gets her flawless face with Clinique!


SugarShock Beauty has fallen in love with Greek natural beauty line Korres's new Body Butters, which come in a pump-tube, so it's super-easy moisturizing for us time-pressed gals.


Raging Rouge tests dozens and dozens of pink lipsticks and glosses, and narrows the field down to the best pink lip colors of Spring 2008.


Beauty Anonymous shows you new colors of the DiorKiss Lip Gloss Line!

StyleBell uncovers simple and easy tips to help manage and control curly hair.

A Touch of Blusher reviews ck Calvin Klein's new mineral-based loose powder.

Product Girl is giving away 2 pairs of Tweezerman's Animal Print Slant tweezers!

Find out what Beauty Blogging Junkie recommends for achieving shimmery shoulders for summer.

Karen from Makeup and Beauty Blog interviews MAC Cosmetics Senior Makeup Artist Jennifer Karsten and gets the skinny on how it's like to work with Kanye West.

The Makeup Divas reviews Bath and Body WorksHello Sugar! shimmering body lotion.

The Muse reviews Etude House'sSpring Collection from Korea!

The Beauty of Life no longer has to suffer from lash envy with the Dior Black Lash Kit.

Toya from The Life of A Ladybug got sucked in by Darac Beauty's Sifted Blur Powder and TorQuam brush! She doesn't want you to get sucked in, too!

Kyle at Face Candy gives you a peek at her favorite Makeup Minis.

Don't know why you should be rocking the sunscreen every day? Beauty411 reminds us that May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month!

makeup loves me introduces you to a non-chocolate truffle that she is confident you will still love!

Beauty Banter dishes on the top concealers on the market! Everything you need to know about covering-up and having a glowing complexion!

Glossypink reveals an essential warm-weather item to give your skin its sexiest glow ever!

Pursebuzz.com shows you how to create long lasting curls with just a few products. It's called the Wavy Waves.

Cybelesays introduces us to a new line of mineral makeup.

Kitiya from Mischo Beauty loves REN’s Mayblossom and Konjac Balancing Moisturiser and tells you why!

Does lipgloss cause skin cancer? Makeup Moxie gives you the lowdown.

15 Minute Beauty Fanatic checks out the new Essie Summer 2008 Colors!

Clean Feet For Summer

There's no denying that flip-flops and sandals give you dirty feet. And there's nothing less sexy then gunk on (and in) the toes.

Well, here's a solution. Just in time for summer! Earth Therapeutics Clean + Cool Foot Wipes. And let me tell you, they're amazing!!!

Infused with tea tree oil and wild mint, the wipes literally clean the dirt and revive tired feet! I've been wiping my feet clean with these for the past couple of days and they actually leave a pleasant tingle long after you're done cleaning. Sure, you could dip your toes into a bath, but that's a little timely. So try these wipes... carry them in your purse... you can use them anywhere at anytime! Simply divine!

Pack of 15 for $5.99