Lacroix the Beauty Blog

Interview with "Here" Makeup Artist - Nico Guilis

2012-01-24T13:04:00.000-05:00


Stills from The Luxury Collection's short-film, "Here", starring Agyness Deyn.

This past weekend I had pleasure of interviewing Makeup Artist Nico Guilis! While she was in Las Vegas for the Chanel exhibition , she shared with me how she got started in the business, how to create a natural look by applying bronzer to your eyelid ( sounds cool, who knew?) and what products she looks forward to for Spring 2012.

LTBB: How did you get your start in beauty?

NG: I got my start in the beauty business around the age of 9 when I was exposed to the makeup world by my mother who was a makeup artist herself at the time. I was a painter in private art classes after school and I found that it was like painting on the face and I quickly became obssessed. I watched Style Chanel, Vintage Movies like Gidget-Singing in the Rain-An American in Paris - Breathless, Fashion TV and I would imagine myself working in NY or Paris , I just knew it was what I was meant to do.

LTBB: In the film, you used the Desert Coral Bronzer on Agyness' eye lids to create a healthy, natural look, what tools can we use to re-create this look?

NG: Anyone can re-create the look I did with the Desert Bronze coral on the eye by just sweeping a light touch of bronzer with some warm honey tones over the eye lid area with a larger brush. Stay away from Bronzers that have a lot of red in them or are too shimmery.. it can make the eye look tired instead of refreshed.

LTBB: Lastly, What are your 3 favorite products for the upcoming Spring 2012 ?

NG: 1. I am loving the UV Essentiel daily spf 50 sunscreen by Chanel. Its light and fresh and is great to set on the skin 10 minutes before your makeup.

2. Rouge Coco Baume is the new hydrating lip Balm by Chanel that makes your lips creamy , gorgeous with a kissable shine.

3. Nubian Heritage is an Organic line that makes a Coconut & Papaya lotion with Vanilla Bean extract and it is divine. Its and anti aging/brightening and firming creame that smells incredible and makes your skin feel like silk.

Check out the Tilda Swinton and Waris Ahluwalia produced, Luca Guadagnino directed short original film, "Here" at TheLuxuryCollection.com/TheFilmHere available on January 24th.

Behind the Scenes Beauty: Agyness Deyn for the Luxury Collections "Here"

2012-01-23T21:51:00.002-05:00

Teaser Trailer for "Here" from the Luxury Collection via Style.com

Tomorrow, January 24th, The Luxury Collection will premier the Tilda Swinton and Waris Ahluwalia produced, original short film, "Here". (TheLuxuryCollection.com/TheFilmHere)
The film directed by Luca Guadgnino and starring Agyness Deyn, is about a woman who explores the beauty of travel through three fabulous Luxury Collection properties.

Nico Guilis, the Makeup Artist for "Here", shares how to get the look from the film.
The beauty look ,“is all about healthy glowing skin that feels fresh and sophisticated, a reflection of the Starwood Luxury Traveler. Her eyes are bright and big, manicured brows and healthy skin that beams. I was really inspired by the thought of a classic timeless woman with natural beauty who really exudes a sophistication that isn’t dampened by heavy overdone makeup. With all her traveling she always feels and looks fresh but always put together,” said Nico.

This past weekend I had the pleasure of interviewing Nico ! I’ll post the interview tomorrow but until then, enjoy the beauty breakdown from “Here”, which you can watch TheLuxuryCollection.com/TheFilmHere

Makeup Credits for Agyness Deyn: All Cosmetic Products were Chanel

-Chanel Hydramax Moisturizer

-Chanel Aqualumiere Foundation with spf 15

-Chanel Natural Finish Loose Powder in T Zones

-Chanel Soleil Tan De Chanel Sheer Illuminating Fluid: Highlight Beam on Cheek, forehead and chin

-Chanel Bronzer Desert Coral on Contour of Cheek under Highlight Beam and dusted on the eye lids

-Chanel Blush "In Love" on apple of the cheek

-Chanel Inimitable Intense Black Mascara

-Chanel Argonite Lipgloss on lips

Snow Day! Cosby Sweater + Rusty colored lipstick = comfort

2012-01-21T19:33:00.000-05:00

Sweater: Forever 21; Lipstick: Photo by MAC

Its the first sign of snow all year and where am I? Oh hunkered down, freshly scrubbed (sans fards..haha) watching Clueless with my Cosby sweater on and my rusty raisin lips.

Givenchy Men's RTW Fall 2012 Look: Bold and Bullish

2012-01-21T13:23:00.000-05:00

All Photos: WWD

Givenchy's Men's Fall 2012 Collection placed the men and women in ultimate control..could it Ticchi's display of optimism? Bright reds, Bold stripes and Bull rings?

Monday Moss: Kate Moss's Rimmel Lipstick Collection

2012-01-16T10:13:00.000-05:00


photo: Rimmel London.com

Monday's Muse is a Moss..Kate Moss! A celebration for being the face of Rimmel London for 10+ years and for releasing some lippies of her own! 7 shades that have been sold out for a number of months in the UK have just made it stateside where Rimmel London products are doing sold.
Congrats Kate and we look forward to another 10 years of you as a Rimmel London woman!

MAC Scarlet Ibis Review and Swatches

2012-01-14T00:20:00.001-05:00

MAC Scarlet Ibis (no flash)

MAC Scarlet Ibis with Flash

MAC Scarlet Ibis

Fresh from the MAC for Iris Apfel's sold out collection is Scarlet Ibis lipstick, which is described as a "bright orange red" on MAC's website. I concur with the color description as if you were to use MAC's Morange as a bench mark for a orange color lipstick, Scarlet Ibis definitely brings the warm red (almost Ruby Woo-ish) to create a truly unique color. Of my collection of red-orange lipstick's, this one is definitely the brightest, because of the powdery yet moisturizing matte finish.

My only qualm is that it doesn't go on as smooth, I applied to color 2-3x before there was even coverage.

Captain Blankenship's Rosey Red Lip balm

2012-01-12T14:11:00.001-05:00


Ahoy, rosey kisser!

A few months ago I had dinner with my friend Danielle at a really cool Italian restaurant in Soho. Amidst chatting about life, DIY projects and her boyfriends hand crafted boat (really cool!), she whipped out a little pretty tin of lip balm and said, "you have to get to CatBird and check this stuff out, its so cute and I know you will love it!" I remember saying that she sold at CatBird!
Fast forward the holiday season when my friend from France was visiting all that Brooklyn has to offer, including lunch on Bedford Ave. In our Brunch and Buy mode, we stopped into CatBird and I saw Captain Blankenship's Rosey Red lip balm on the counter. I tested the color, which is a highly pigmented deep red, I think you can also use it as a blush too.
I checked the Captain Blankenship website here, and saw that the Rosey Red stain was from carmine with rose geranium. Further, I was impressed by the all natural ingredients including the California organic almond oil!
If you would like to try the Rosey Red lip balm, you should definitely check out Captain Blankenship.com

Style.com's Beauty Icon: Beverly Johnson

2012-01-10T19:09:00.000-05:00

Read about Beverly Johnson and her legacy here:

Happy 5th Birthday!

2012-01-10T10:50:00.000-05:00

It's my blog's 5th Birthday today! Yay!
I hope you have enjoyed reading about my enthusiasm for color cosmetics thus far. Just to think, I started LTBB to get out there and talk about upcoming beauty collections and events that I attended in San Diego and now I'm in NYC getting invited to cool events, meeting cool people and still talking about my passion for color cosmetics!
Cheers and Thanks for sticking around and reading my experiences, trials and tribulations and food for thought in my favorite hobby.

XOXO Lacroix

Winter Skin Protection with Sebamed Q10 Protection Cream

2012-01-09T16:06:00.000-05:00

So far I've had some success with Sebamed products ever since being introduced to them last year. A few months ago, I tried the Sebamed Age Defense Q10 Protection Cream, which is an anti-aging creame, in an unconventional yet effective way. Seeing as I'm not a candidate for wrinkles on my face just yet, I used the cream on my winter hands and feet pre-gloves and socks. Usually I tend to shed skin and experience dryness due to the winter weather sucking out most of the moisture in the air but the Q10 cream retains the moisture and smoothes both my hands and feet.

For all of you that would like to experience Sebamed, it will be available in CVS Stores and at CVS.com and Walgreens.com starting January 13^th!

Monday Muse: MAC for Iris Aphel

2012-01-09T11:04:00.001-05:00

Cheers for MAC for embracing "All Ages", I think they kinda fell off the radar with the ages aspect after the Dame Edna collection in 2008. But to choose Iris Aphel to represent is amazing! Plus, her collaboration for MAC has sold out within hours online, as per a Soho MAC MUA, and Pink Pigeon Lipstick is sold out in all NYC and Brooklyn MAC stores.

The MUA in Soho explained the cult following behind Pink Pigeon. The popularity is attributed Pink Pigeon being similar to Candy Yum Yum-a bright fuchsia pink lipstick that was released with MAC's Quite Cute collection last year. But no need to panic, a perfect dupe is the new Embrace Me lip pencil that was just released with the Iris Aphel collection. Though it is not in a lipstick form, it doesn't mean that you can't create your own...

Tom Ford's Bitter Bitch Nail Lacquer Review and Swatches

2012-01-08T10:55:00.000-05:00

TF Bitter Bitch Swatch in indoor light


TF Bitter Bitch Swatch with flash

Tom Ford's Bitter Bitch Nail Lacquer has been on the lips of ever woman and man that step foot into the Tom Ford area of Bergdorf Goodman's basement beauty department. While I was checking out the new collection in November, having missed Mr. Ford and the initial batch of Bitter Bitch sold out, I was still curious about the shade. For a hefty $30, a nail lacquer with quality, color consistency, and wear shouldn't be a question since we all know that Tom Ford's name on almost anything is prestigious. On a Saturday afternoon I found myself at the TF area chatting up a makeup artist about Bitter Bitch and the new lipsticks and about 30 minutes later I found myself at home with a bottle of Bitter Bitch and a tube of Deep Mink ready to experiment with the most expensive makeup I have purchased since leaving my comfortable job and becoming a full-time MBA student!

Bitter Bitch is an enigmatic neutral, meaning it looks different on everyone! The MUA described it as such as well. Its no Chanel Particuliere, which is a muted brown grey- I found the color of Bitter Bitch to be in the chocolate-wine category, very vamp and boudoir. The coverage is very rich- n skimping on pigment.
The applicator was great, I haven't experienced a brush that can coat as effectively after the first dip as this brush- so I only needed two coats per nail. The polish also dried within 10-15 minutes and didn't require any help to speed up the process ( i.e. a fan or a fast drying top coat).
The look lasted for a week without chipping or any other nail damage!

Overall, The polish is great and well worth the price for the quality you get. I would suggest that with this color you should see it for yourself in person to gauge how it will look on you as the pictures of swatches available on the TF and Bergdorf Sites do not do the color justice.

Top Five Beauty Trends for 2012

2012-01-03T09:17:00.000-05:00

As we move on from 2011, do you think that we can hold fast to the colors and trends that have dominated the past few months? Will there be a victor from the hodgepodge of trends that have cyclically surfaced every 3 to 5 years?

To date, The Lipstick Index tried and failed to predict sales and trends and judging by the past few years we now can safely say that the Nail Color Index can attribute to the influx of spending in the nail care sector, so much so that Nail Color sales were $328 million in 2010, dominating over other color cosmetics.

Will Nail Domination continue in 2012? Here are my top 5 most- unscientifically hypothesized ganders for what 2012 will bring for us color cosmetic enthusiasts.

1. Beauty for the Ages

We all can generalize and say that gloss is for the teens and tweens, lipsticks are from the young adult to professional crowd and that everyone else just doesn't exist.. just kidding. Well, it sure does seem that way- the oldest beauty ambassador on the roster is Ellen DeGeneris who is in her Mid- 50's, well done cosmetic companies! But what about 50 and over? MAC Cosmetics answered the call of " All Ages" ( coincidentally their tag line) and will release the MAC for Iris Aphel collection this month. Iris is almost a centurion and is still fashionable in every way. Another cosmetic venture, Fabulousat60.com a lifestyle website for Baby Boomers who can also get their beauty fix.

2. Natural is as Natural Does

Cosmeticeuticals are once again up for debate. Borba has tried it and new products are coming soon that will give you all the nutrients you need so that your inner health is reflected on the outside, and it will taste good! I guess it beats the one pill to cure everything but also poses a problem if you have to have a mixed cocktail to strengthen hair, reduce oiliness in skin and boost the immune system..

3. The Unpredictable Coveted Beauty Collaborations

One day next year, or if I'm lucky enough to go to Japan in the fall, I will be able to order a lipstick alongside my Cassis Macaron at Ladureé. I'm so excited that Ladureé is stepping into the world of color cosmetics! Judging by the quality of their Candles, Fragrances, Teas and Macarons, their cosmetic collection will be nothing short of amazing! Other completely left-field-but-totally-can't wait collections include: Pantone and Sephora. On another note, why doesn't MAC partner up with Sprinkles cupcakes for some lip colors or nail polishes or better yet one of my favorite NYC stores, Opening Ceremony!

4. Global Beauty Love!

Some color cosmetics companies are good at others with this one, its teaching the US consumers about what is effective and special about products that do well abroad. For example, The BB creams that were released here didn't go so well. Why? because the Makeup Artists were not really trained to tell you what they were and how do they work!
I think that more companies need to explore the Global Embrace, educate don't imitate nor dominate. Another example, if you are inspired by Baja Mexico, do your research, make the campaign look amazing and show how to work the colors, textures and tones into the everyday or special occasion looks.

5. The end of the Glittery Nail Struggle

I've posted before on my struggle with glitter nail polish, soaking doesn't work, rubbing takes off the color, not the glitter, twisting causes scratching on my nail surface..its a useless battle that has me sitting the bench instead of participating in the glitter party. Can someone please re-develop a formula so that glitter nail polish can easily be taken off without the threat of harming yourself in the process?

That is all for 2012.

Monday Muse: Anais Mali in Vogue Paris Dec 2011/ Jan 2012

2012-01-02T23:34:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! Bonne Anneé!

I hope everyone had a beautiful ring to the New Year! I wanted to spread some cheer here and share what could possibly be a new segment- Monday Muse, inspiring editorials from some of my favorite publications! This week is Anais Mali in Vogue Paris' Dec/Jan magazine. Despite the lack of creativity on this month's cover ( Kate Moss as David Bowie) and the end of the best calendars to come with your end of the year magazine ( I still have December's Daria calendar on my wall..) there was a handful of great editorials to come from Vogue Paris, this includes the two shots above of Anais Mali in the Cadeaux section. I love these and can't wait to see her in more shots! I only wish I knew what color cosmetics she was wearing!

A plus!

A is for Aldo Fragrance Launch

2011-12-26T14:48:00.000-05:00

Cushnie et Ochs!

Happy Holidays everyone! Are you ready for the New Year come next week? Well if you are out and about checking out your local mall or clamoring to your closest fashionable residence in time for some New Years gear, you should definitely take some time to discover a new fragrance!
All this year and last, I've been trying and testing new fragrances but I was quite impressed with Aldo's new fragrances that launched earlier this month. I was invited to the launch party in Noho and got to sample the three women's fragrances: Yellow, Red and Blue. Simple and sophisticated.
I tried and liked the Red scent, its the warmest of the three and packs a musky yet fruity scent that doesn't leave you smelling male musky but is perfect for the fall/winter season.
If you get a chance while out and about "window shopping", stop into Aldo, take a whiff and relax.

Special Thanks to Aldo and BPCM

A Quick Getaway at The Chelsea

2011-12-21T10:50:00.000-05:00

Face Stockholm in the building!

Whew! I can't believe my first term of school is officially over! So far, its been an exciting journey and I've met some really amazing people! Before I embarked on re-capping my studies from mid-terms to finals time, I went down to Atlantic City with some friends to check out The Chelsea hotel!
The Chelsea is AMAZING! The decor is 1940's, beautiful and completely reminds me of a hotel that would be in the middle of Palm Springs California.
Another surprise at The Chelsea is that they carry Face Stockholm toiletry products! I find this great because when I first started visiting NYC I used to visit Face Stockholm on the corner of Prince and Greene streets. Sadly, the store closed two years ago.
I was also pretty jubilant to see that Face Stockholm made Shampoo and Hair Rinse ( Conditioner). After surveying the products I then asked my friends how they plan on changing up their winter hair care regimen. While we went through some standards and trends: heavy conditioning, co-washing, dry shampoo, etc., I announced that I would try co-washing to see how it goes for my hair and I tried it with the Hair Rinse in White Tea.
The White Tea Hair Rinse smells floral and woodsy, the consistency is milky, light and the conditioner did a fantastic job of moisturizing.
Now I have to go to the newly opened Face Stockholm at Columbus Circle to see the variety of the hair care line.

Holiday Win-spiration: Chanel's Khol Rimmed Paris-Bombay Look

2011-12-11T21:23:00.000-05:00

Jasmine Tookes photo: Elle.com

Its finals!. I have so much great stuff to share but will have to be put on hold for a couple of days. I did want to do a quick post on my Holiday Winter Inspiration- (Win-spiration if you will)- The Chanel Pre-fall 2012 Paris- Bombay Metiers d'Art show that debuted on Wednesday December 7th, 2011. I love the khol rimmed eyes- it makes me want to re-visit smokey eyes- but in a way to just line it tightly instead of smudging. My spin would be putting some highlights of gold underneath the eye and in the corner.
I love the look and was happy that their were east Asian women represented along with my faves Audrey Marnay and Southern California new-comer Jasmine Tookes!

My Mini-facial with Tata Harper at Butterfly Studio!

2011-11-25T12:20:00.000-05:00

Last week I had the pleasure of stopping by Butterfly Studio for a mini-facial with Tata Harper.
My initial thought upon opening my email invite was that I was getting a facial with Tata Harper's skincare products but no, I read wrong . I was getting a mini-facial by Tata Harper using her much raved about skincare products! This was amazing as 1. I never have received a facial before- I do my own DIY facial and 2. This invite could not come at a better time, post mid-terms, pre-classmate dinner outing that put me in rush mode all day.
My facial with Tata Harper at Butterfly Studio, which is amazing, was such a great experience! Tata informed me of how she started her product line and how she worked with scientists for 8 years to perfect her truly 100% natural skin care. It made me re-think about the different ingredients in our skincare and food. But I digress, in the 20 minutes I had with Tata, I received the Resurfacing Mask treatment for about 7 minutes that smoothed away the roughness from my distressed skin. Tata recommended that it be used for a half hour once a week. Also in my session, I received aromatherapy Stress Treatment, which was very much needed. An application of the oil was applied to my hands in which I rubbed together and deeply inhaled and exhaled for about 10 breathes. How can something so small work so effectively!
After the session, I thanked Tata, took a photo (see above) and headed to Pio Pio for dinner. I placed my hands over my boyfriend's nose who said- " That smells.. really relaxing".

Special Thank you's to Tata Harper and BPCM

Carine Roitfeld's "Irreverent" book signing at Bookmarc

2011-11-12T09:14:00.002-05:00


Irreverent at Bookmarc!

11/11/11. What a day to remember! After wrapping up the last of my midterms this week, I deserved an early b-day treat so upon hearing last month that Carine Roitfeld would be in NYC at Bookmarc signing copies of Irreverent, I went down to the West Village for the signing!
I arrived at 5:30pm and bought the book and as soon as I turned around, at 5:40pm she whisked into Bookmarc and immediately started chatting fans up and signing copies! Champagne flowed, passerbys gawked and I found myself in the surreal world of fantasy, meeting another one of my idols! I stood in line for a good half hour and was cut in line by non other than Peter Philips, Chanel Beauté's Creative Director! She said, "Oh, I'm so sorry, he is VIP." I said "I know, I can't believe this is happening, this is amazing!" So while he was getting his booked signed I took a picture of her boots. ( See below)

Boots to pine for!

Carine and Lacroix

Finally! I meet Carine who says..like every french person I have met." Your first name is Lacroix? That's interesting." I then tell her " Thank you for my early birthday gift", as I give her my book to sign, she asks, " When is your birthday?" I say " Its the 22nd" and she says, " Happy Birthday"!
Then I break out my favorite issue of Paris Vogue, the Dec 2007/ Jan 2008 issue guest edited by Charlotte Gainsbourg , she smiled and signed it!

I go outside to meet Jessica of Styloteque and in walks Marc Jacobs!

Carine and Marc chat .

Marc stayed and chatted for about a half hour then left, but not before taking photos with some fans.

Marc loves the kids!


I promised Joan that I will read the new V mag with her on the cover once I was done with my accounting homework.

Joan Smalls and Natasha Poly stopped in to say hi to Carine and to get their books signed!
What an amazing night!

Natasha Poly is too tall for words- I'm like 5'10 and she's like 6'2.. and she has killer boots on!

OPI's The Muppets Collection- Divine Swine Swatches

2011-10-20T07:50:00.001-04:00

OPI Divine Swine

I can't believe I haven't blogged in almost a month! Time flies while you are in school and readying for the dreaded MIDTERMS! it's now the conclusion of my 7th week so its time to test my knowledge.

Divine Swine- 3 coats

All while preparing for my exams, I was able to sneak away and wander into Ricky's to stock up on my lovely Lavender Dr. Bronner's Soap but something caught my eye at the counter!

The OPI Muppets Holiday Collection was available! Each polish is priced at $9.99.
I grabbed Divine Swine, a glittery metallic Magenta with touches of silver in it, then later swatched it in the evening. Application was splotchy, as glitters, metallics and shimmers go, you have to put on 3-4 coats for even coverage, which did the trick. The most painful part of this polish was the fact that it was a glitter, metallic concoction which was a pain to take the polish off. I spent 20 minutes taking this polish off my nails just due to the glitter not wanting to come off. I tried two types of removers, the first being the pre-moistened nail remover pads, the second, bottles nail polish remover with a cotton pad. I twisted my fingers, I pulled my fingers I tried just soaking my fingers in both the pm pad and cotton pad and the stuff wouldn't budge!! Only after I had to saturate the cotton and twist it around my fingers vigorously did the glitter start to come off.
With that said, I don't know if I will wear this color again, or maybe I will reserve it for my toes and just replace my polish when it starts to wear down.

Advanced Style at the Ace Hotel NYC with Tavi and Ari Seth Cohen

2011-09-29T16:13:00.000-04:00

During NY Fashion week, I got a chance to attend Advanced Style's Fashion Week party at the Ace Hotel. The night was hosted by Tavi Gevinson of Fashion Rookie and Ari Seth Cohen and was a tribute to the sophisticated generation of women who can put a lot f current fashion celebrities to shame. The night started with a tootsie roll candy flavored cocktail, moved onto sweet cabaret serenades and ended with style advice from the Idiosyncratic Fashionistas!

Sunday Laduree and Beauty time!

2011-09-25T15:32:00.000-04:00

Ladureé NYC


Mmm Macarons!

After studying accounting and econ in the library for 4 plus hours, I made my way to the newly opened Laudrée for some Macarons! Lauduree just opened here in the city about two weeks ago and along with the opening came the line of devote Macaron lovers! Prior to this experience, my only brush with Laudreé was their Brioche and Glazed Chestnut candles that I picked up at Opening Ceremony earlier this year.
Luckly, the line wasn't so bad, I stood for a good 15 minutes before heading inside and picking up a small gift box of Macarons. These babies are a definite treat but something I won't be having regularly.
But since its Sunday and I've finished my homework, I'm ready to enjoy some Macarons, watch the new season of SNL, put in a hair mask and lacquer up my nails.
Its been about 3 weeks since I have done my nails and am in between choosing something fall-ish or something fun. Aww, we'll see.
How are you enjoying your Sunday afternoon?

Chanel Perfection Lumiere Review and Swatches

2011-09-21T09:41:00.001-04:00


Chanel Perfection Lumiere Swatches Ambre 104,134 and 154 on hand

Thanks to Karlasugar.net, I first heard of Chanel's new Perfection Lumiere Foundation. I stopped into Saks Fifth Ave and Simone helped me explore the new line.

Chanel Perfection Lumiere Ambre 104, 134 and 154 Swatches

Perfection Lumiere is described as a naturally looking, everyday long wear foundation suitable for all skin types and the first foundation by Chanel to have a range of 20 shades.
Out of the 20, there are about 5 shades that are great for women of color that are in the Ambre category: Ambre 94, 104, 114, 134 and 154. The numerical value of these shades are no indication of the shade depth in this range. For instance, as seen in the photo at the top, Ambre 104 fits me well but when I tried Ambre 114 it was about 2 shades lighter (more yellow) on my skin.
I found that Ambre 134 had a red undertone and Ambre 154 had a brown neutral undertone and my shade match, Ambre 104 has an orange undertone.
After testing the swatches on my face ( I actually walked around the whole evening with them on) I didn't get the sense that I was wearing anything on. Usually after 2-3 hours, I can feel the effects of coverage as my skin gets oily but I didn't have a problem here, so far. I will need to test it when I go a full day and with more coverage.
Overall I'm impressed so far, its tough because summer is winding down and typically Fall is when my skin calms down where as Summer was not a great moment for wearing foundation at all but I'd be curious to see if Perfection Lumiere can stand the NYC heat and humidity.
I hope that the shade range is just a taste of whats to come for Chanel Beauty in relation to its facial cosmetic line.

Recap Fashion's Night Out 2011: Chanel Betsey Johnson, DVF, Oak and The Ace Hotel!

2011-09-20T20:39:00.000-04:00


Mercedes Benz NY Fashion Week Spring 2012

Its been a wild almost 3 weeks, I'm currently enduring a massive life change. I started my MBA program at a great university here in NYC! Yay! and have been tending to the needs of Financial Management and Econ classes ( among other courses I'm taking this semester). Unfortunately, I'm waaay behind on blogging as I'm still getting acclimated to classes, study time and navigating my career path.

Dancing Models at Betsey Johnson

Ok, onward to Fashion's Night Out here in NYC! My Thursday morning started off with attending the Porter Grey show at Lincoln Center and then I went down to the Film Forum with the BF to check out Gainsbourg, the film about Serge Gainsbourg. It was great, surreal, musical, completely french. I loved Laetitia Casta as Brigitte Bardot. I thought she looked perfect for the role. Post film, it was getting ready to meet the girls so that we can navigate the streets of NYC for the biggest non-shopping party ever ( bear with me, I will explain soon).

Party at Betsey Johnson

My first stop was Chanel Soho, last year was the grand opening of the store and it was PACKED. The line for free manicures was down the block! and Steel and Strong sold out within minutes. Since I'm familiar with the staff at the store, they assure that they had enough of the Les Denim collection in for all who wanted it. I stood in line and got my manicure and was out by 6:15pm.
Next up was Betsey Johnson where I met up with friends, they were out of champagne but I did snag a Yoplait and walked across the street to DVF for champagne. In the midst of pagning, I ran into Diane Von Furstenberg herself!! She was spritzing customers with her new fragrance Diane and chatting us up about the notes and tying ribbons on our wrists.

DVF part deux

Cheeky Burt Reynolds Shirt at OAK

Money Wall at OAK

After our DVF experience, we headed to OAK for the Disco Party and the walls of 3,000 $1 bills that were supposed to be for "Redecorating" that ended up in the hands of OAK Party goers!

At this point, my phone was out of battery! But we capped off the night with Belvedere Vodka sno-cones from the Opening Ceremony/ Ace Hotel Carnival where Manilla Luzon ( runner-up of Ru Paul's Drag Race season 3) was partying along side Ms. Piggy, who we missed because we were waiting in line.

If Fashion's Night Out is to generate buzz and have people shopping, I'm afraid it failed. Why? because its nearly impossible to shop while there are hairdressers, food, drinks and dance parties happening in the store. I didn't encounter a sales person who sold me anything other than my pre-ordered Chanel polishes. Even Opening Ceremony didn't show what their exclusive collaborations were going to be, you found out when you showed up and if it was too expensive, you passed on it. Had I had a heads-up, I would have been prepared to buy.

Recap of IFB Con Fall 2011: Magnum! Minx! and Missoni!

2011-09-15T23:50:00.000-04:00

First let me start by Thanking you for holding on here for all of the NY Fashion week post recaps. Its been an extremely busy week, which I will get to soon enough. But to start fashion week, the Independent Fashion Bloggers Conference hosted 200 of us at Milk Studios in the meatpacking district on Wednesday, Sept 7th for panels and discussions that included advice from Ari Goldberg or StyleCaster, the Man Repeller, Leandra Medine, Christen Rochon of Divas & Dorks, Mr. Mickey Boardman of PaperMag and Coco Rocha of Oh So Coco and Supermodel!! The Keynote speaker was none other than Joe Zee of Elle Magazine who was interviewed by Tina Craig of BagSnob.
The conference was amazing and I met so many individuals whom blogs I geek out over like Erin of Scandalous Beauty.

Magnum Ice cream provided the perfect anecdote to a rainy day by providing not only ice cream but Minx in the color of chocolate and caramel swirls! I couldn't pass up the opportunity and got my nails done pronto by Natasha a Minx specialist from DC. Natasha had her lips glammed with a platinum sparkly lip sticker that looked crazy cool.

Jessica of Styloteque

Magnum x Minx Manicures!

Target for Missoni brought their own blogger Marina, the 20 ft Missoni wearing fashion enthusiast who has the worlds biggest smart phone. At the event KMS California styled hair and provided hair tips. This particular morning, the rain turned my hair into a frizz of tangle so I asked a stylist for help. They recommended Free Shape Anti- Humidity Seal. I went with that and got back to the con.

Coco Rocha of Oh So Coco

During the panel of the Business of Blogging, Coco Rocha mentioned that since she is a model and that her job is to sell, some companies approach her about "plugging " their product, which is what she gets paid to do as a profession however her blog is her creative outlet. Conversely, there are many assignments that she is excited to share with her readers but can't talk about it for fear of being dropped from the project or job but as her blog is a creative outlet and she is mindful of her young followers who are trying to pursue their careers in modeling ( also worth mentioning that she said her followers are as young as 15!) and has spoken out against eating disorders and the pressure of appearance in her industry. While I do not follow Coco's blog, I do admire her for using her influence to help and advise her audience.

Keynote Speaker Joe Zee and his interviewer Tina Craig were amazing, their rapport was like listening to friends catch up, not like your standard interview. Its refreshing to know that Joe Zee believes that social media and print media can co-exist despite all the streamlining and faster communication streams. Plus, he is only one of three editors at Elle that have a Twitter and was one of the first to do so ( he has had his Twitter account for over 2 years) and he's launching a blog that showcases a lot of his editorial work over the past 20 years, including some behind the scenes shoots filled with back stories and memories!

After IFB, we all (over 21 folks) headed over to the Rivington Hotel for a party hosted by KMS California for their new line of products. I have to say, the line is impressive. Products to help you achieve a new look without washing your hair? That cuts so much time out of my day!

IFB Conf is such a great way to get your blog out there by meeting other great bloggers, stylists, writers and photographers who want to meet you too!

KMS Califonia Styling

Idiosyncratic Fashionistas

Tina Craig of BagSnob.com and Joe Zee of Elle Magazine

Party Bus to the Rivington!

Next up on the agenda, Fashion's Night Out, which I can't wait to share with you soon!
A special Thanks! to my new and continuing group of Blog friends! Erin of Scandalousbeauty, Laura of Lolbeauty, Jessica of Styloteque ,the wonderful women of Idosycratic Fashionistas and Donyale of Livluxmag.com

Garden Party Beauty At Porter Grey

2011-09-10T10:24:00.001-04:00

Modern woman meets 1950's Garden Party served as the beauty inspiration for Porter Grey this Spring. Tata Harper prepped the model's skin and Sephora's PRO Team ,lead by José Rivera, created a bold Audrey Hepburn- inspired brow, satin skin and peach cheeks and lips to complement the oyster silk, nude and geranium hues in the RTW collection.

The Sephora PRO Team used MAKE UP FOREVER Mist & Fix to prep the skin

-Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 to smooth imperfection

-Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder dusted under the eyes

-Smashbox HALO Hydrating Perfecting Powder for a satiny finish to perfected skin

-Lorac Blush in Peach added a touch of healthy color to cheeks

For Eyes:

-Shades from Smashbox Softbox Palette were used to sculpt and highlight the eye, including Cream Liner in Taupe ( blended in the crease for a soft base) and Eyeshadows in Nectar (lid) and Flirt ( crease)

-Sephora Collection in Nano Eyeliner No. 10, a velvety khaki, defined the lashline

-Lancome Definicils Mascara in Black for flirty black lashes

-Benefit Brow Zings created the dramatic and bold arches

For Lips:

- YSL Rouge Volupte No. 30 Faubourg Peach provided a soft base for lips

- NARS Lipstick in Belle de Jour was layered on top.

Fashions Night Out Exclusive: Les Jeans de Chanel Vernis Swatches

2011-09-09T10:33:00.001-04:00

As you already know, I am a HUGE fan of Chanel's nail colors ( Vernis, if you will) and made the Chanel SoHo store my first Fashion's Night Out stop. Both of Chanel's boutiques had free mini manicures featuring the Les Jeans Collection or you can choose from the other nail color favorites, among the shades, Black Satin, Particuliere and Vendetta to name a few.

At about 5:15pm small lined formed and I got in it as I wanted to check out the manicure situation first prior to purchase. Especially, how well Coco Blue compares to Riva ( for reference, I love Riva! Its really stands out on my skin and looks beautiful!).

From top down: Coco Blue, Blue Rebel and Blue Boy

The Les Jeans de Chanel color hues are as follows:
Coco Blue- Opaque Baby Blue, no shimmer.
Blue Boy- Medium Blue Grey, like a standard wash jean
Blue Rebel- Dark Blue Indigo

At 6:10pm the doors opened and I started to get manicured. I chose a combination of the three nail colors using Coco Blue on four nails and Blue Jean on the ring finger of my left hand and Blue Rebel on the ring finger of my right hand.. normally I wouldn't do this but the manicurist assured it was "trendy".
Later on in the night, a friend commented that Coco Blue looked like Hard Candy's Sky from back in the day when Drew Barrymore was all about HC and the jelly rings that came with the nail polish.
I found that I really liked Blue Jean, its purely unique and universally flattering, it was also the shade that I saw the most ladies sporting throughout the evening.
Also, thinking back I would have loved to pick up Dior's denim nail color but Dior's nail colors, like Chanel's, sells out with the quickness.

On another note, these colors were a bit more pricier than the other LE's and exclusives as they were $29 each.

** Coco Riva vs. Coco Blue
Coco Riva has been courted as a Robin's Egg Blue where as Coco Blue is 2-3 shades cooler in tone, pretty close to a sky blue.
Enjoy and Happy Friday!

Live Tweeting from the Independent Fashion Bloggers Conference- Sept 7th, 2011

2011-09-07T06:45:00.000-04:00

Yes, I'll be at Milk Studios today and will be tweeting about the experience!
Check out my tweets @Lavande_G

Representing Jamaica , Pic from the West Indian Day Parade

2011-09-06T23:08:00.000-04:00

On the way to the store on Monday morn, I came across these ladies who were in the West Indian Day parade representing Jamaica.

Fall 2011 Looks: Hint of Blush at Proenza Schouler

2011-09-02T20:20:00.000-04:00

photo: Style.com

Blush toned it down a notch or two for fall at Proenza Schouler by adding texture to the apples of the cheeks. This subtle cheek look can be done with a creamy blush, like Bobbi Brown's Pot Rouge or MAC's Cream Color Base layered with a loose finishing powder in your skin tone to neutral the cheek color. I plan on trying this look out with my fave MAC CCB, Virgin Isle and layering NARS Mountain Loose Powder.

Fall 2011 Looks: Anne Valerie Hash's Vampy Boudoir Lips

2011-08-31T19:28:00.001-04:00

photos: Elle.com

Anne Valerie Hash's Fall 2011 lips reminded me that I needed to shop my stash to create these vampy shades. Break out your YSL Pur Black Gloss and evaluate your MAC Style Black collection to see if your Bling Black Glimmerglass is ready, its time to vamp it up by layering the gloss over some supreme matte lipsticks for some boudoir lips! My favorite mattes are MAC's Charred Red, Sin and Diva, Chanel's Classic Vamp and Bobbi Brown's Chocolate.

Fall 2011 Looks: Fendi's Jennifer Behr Dinosaur Hair Accessory

2011-08-31T12:19:00.000-04:00

Photo: Elle.com

Honestly, I can't remember the last time I wore a headband. Maybe it was when I was 8 or 9 and more than likely it was made of plastic to coordinate with my barrettes. Yes, my mom was ALL about color coordination. Jennifer Behr worked with Fendi to provide her dinosaur headbands for the Fall 2011 collection and this look makes me want to sport a band again! Plus, mom will be proud as the texture and color will match with my existing fall chunky sweaters.
Check out the Jennifer Behr's other collection of hair accessories at jenniferbehr.com

Fall 2011 Looks: Rodarte's Rustic Inspired Lips

2011-08-26T17:19:00.001-04:00

Photos: Style.com and MAC Cosmetics

MAC Photo lipstick swatch

I'm always anxious to see what looks Rodarte comes up with for their RTW fashion shows and was sorely disappointed when their MAC collaboration didn't pan out, I'm still holding out hope that they will create a makeup collab, after all for Spring 2012 NARS will now command the looks for the show. Ok, back to Fall 2011 where the look conjured "Mid-West, Prairie and Rustic" and the official lipstick chosen for the Rodarte this season is MAC's Photo.
Photo has been in MAC's lipstick lineup for quite along time. I remember looking at the color a few years ago trying to wrap my head around how to make it work albeit without trying it on. Just looking at the color from the tube reminds me of Rayanne Graff from My So Called Life and her makeup application moments in the ladies room, so mid-ninties, so passed over but definitely worth the try.
So after applying then walking around Soho busily looking in the mirror, I walked back into MAC and purchased Photo for my own. I had to do a bit of application adjusting as Photo has a Satin finish ( that's how you can tell its an older color, MAC now pushes Glosses, Glazes and Glass finishes) so I used a lighter hand. Overall I'm pleased with this re-earthed gem that Rodarte has brought to my attention.

Independent Fashion Bloggers Conference Sept 7th, 2011 at MILK Studios

2011-08-26T10:14:00.000-04:00

photo: IFB

Its back! For the second time this year, Independent Fashion Bloggers (IFB) will be hosting panels for new and established bloggers featuring the best of the best bloggers, models and editors to share with you social media survival tactics and to meet some of your fellow friends in the Frago/Beauty/Fashion Field. Tickets are $60 and be bought here.
In February this year the Keynote Speakers where Proenza Schouler, next week Joe Zee will be the keynote speaker. This event is definitely not to be missed. Hopefully I'll see you there, just in time for NY Fashion Week!

Fall 2011 Looks: Louis Vuitton Graphic Cat Eye

2011-08-25T14:43:00.001-04:00

photos: Style.com and Topshop.com

After seeing all the beauty trends post Fall 2011 fashion week, I got really excited about a few. Some tips and techniques are fun to wear just about anywhere while others are observed for that special night out with the girls or during a holiday party.
With that, I started my list of the Fall 2011 looks that I liked the most and I could see myself experimenting with.
Exhibit A would be Louis Vuitton's Graphic Cat Eye. With a couple of swipes of a liquid eyeliner, this look can be done in about 5 minutes. Though Anna Sui had a similar Graphic Eye look ( I would consider it a Mod Graphic Eye), the LV eye looks super sexy. I recently tested this look with my Topshop Liner and forgot that I only did one eye and walked out of my apartment to got get lightbulbs from Duane Reade. While I was looking at some nail polish, I realized that I had only done one eye! So I had to play it off as though I was " Edgy" while buying bulbs.. haha memo to self, next time check the mirror before leaving the apt.

In the Gentlemen's corner: Jack Black's Double-Duty Face Moisturizer

2011-08-24T08:18:00.000-04:00

Who says that ladies have all the fun when it comes to skincare? Since purchasing a Jack Black Skincare set for the BF for the holidays, I've been using his Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer when I forget to have facial moisturizer handy and it has been wonderful!

JB's Double Duty is really lightweight, not greasy and doesn't have a strong musky smell so its pleasant to wear.

Review: Lipstick Queen's Jean Queen Lipstick

2011-08-22T17:37:00.001-04:00

Jean Queen Lipstick

Jean Queen Lipstick Swatched

Since moving to NYC a little over 3 years ago, I've noticed that jeans (denim) are not much of a wardrobe staple as they are in California. I've also noticed that jeans have a strong connection to leisure (" oh, I'll just throw some jeans on and [insert grungy outdoor activity here]" or they are associated with Back to School as almost any public school student can get away with wearing jeans. Even a number of August issues of magazines are dedicated to denim! But now acid-wash, bootcut, low-rise and pocket-less jean lovers can wear a lipcolor dedicated to coordinate with your closet full of multi-color and fitted Levi's, J Brand, Rock & Republic and Marc Jacobs.

Lipstick Queen created a lovely pink shade that suites all beauties of color called Jean Queen. The hue offsets the blue in denim for a colors that works for all. Jean Queen comes in two formulas, the first being a classic bullet lipstick that is sheer in texture and gradually builds and the second is an opaque gloss. Both are available for $18 at Barneys, Bloomingdales or Lipstickqueen.com

I've had Jean Queen milling about in my makeup drawer for a few months now since I received it from a Barney's event. I started to use it when I went on vacation a few weeks ago and I'm pleased that I can apply 2-3 swipes and am ready where usually with pinks I have to check the mirror both indoor and out to make sure the color doesn't leave my lips looking ashy.

Do you have a favorite lipcolor you like to wear with your denim?

Fall 2011: Chanel Graphite 529 Nail Color and Swatches

2011-08-21T22:15:00.001-04:00

The Fall 2011 Chanel Le Vernis trio has been out since June but I just opened my box of Graphite today. Why? I'm still trying to hold on to summer! While swatching all three colors ( Quartz- a shade shifting moody beige metallic with just a hint of rose and Peridot- a holographic shifting gold green are the other two colors that I left at the counter) Graphite stood out as my favorite. The color is a metallic silver that is completely wearable, uber dramatic and perfect for fall.

DIY Gifts: Magazine Cover Clutch

2011-08-14T20:43:00.001-04:00

Magazine Clutch- Finished product

What do you with your old magazines after you tear out your inspiring color stories, editorials and ad campaigns? Specifically, what do you do with the cover of your dated but more than loved mags?

This weekend for my friends birthday, I needed something fun to put a few fun knacks, and discovered that a magazine cover also makes for a kitschy clutch!

Materials:
- Magazine Cover
- Scissors
- Hot Glue Gun

First, I sourced my mags and found V magazine is the longest and the cover is pretty glossy, which could make for sturdy material. I then folded the cover in half and created two folds about 2-3 inches above and below the center as my "bottom"of the clutch. Then I created a triangle by bringing the two ends together and gently pulling the bottom half of the cover down so that there is room at the top for a flap. Next I creased about an inch on each side of the page and folded the page in so that I could superglue the ends together. After supergluing the sides, I folded the page inwards 1/2 inch once more and glued the sides to the page leaving the top flap open. Once the glue is dry, you can use your hand to push the inside of the clutch out. With the top flap, you will fold it over the bottom of the page ( which is now at the top of the clutch) and ta da! You have your mag clutch!

gluing the sides down.

Fall Sneek Preview: Duri's Cognac XO 561 Nail Polish

2011-08-11T10:08:00.001-04:00

Duri cosmetics' Cognac XO 561 nail polish

We are halfway through Summer and I'm finding little reminders of Fall already. The majority of the trees on my block have shed their leaves (check), I'm finding myself looking at "Back to School" attire when walking through stores (check), reminiscing on watching Daria and catching up on My So Called Life on instant Netflix ( um..check), experimenting with warmer, denser colors for my lips and eyes for Fall to blog about ( double check). Then, last week after coming back from vacation, I received a nail polish sample from Duri's Fall 2011 " Wine Tasting Party" Nail Color collection and decided to preview fall give or take a few weeks.

Duri's Wine Tasting Party Collection boasts 6 nail colors that range from shimmery violet to shades of red. One of the colors I tried, 561 Cognac XO ( pictured) is a warm terracotta that is really easy to apply ( 2 coats), dries quickly ( roughly 5 minutes) , is DBP, toulene and formaldeheyde-free AND is only $5.00 for .5 fl oz. Other colors from the collection include 562- Bloody Mary, 563 Pinot Noir, 564 Cabernet Sauvignon, 566- Dragontini and 567 Grape Swirl.

The collection is available September 2011 via www.duri.com or by calling 1-800-724-2216.
For Android and iPhone App users, Duri Cosmetics has a FREE nail color and treatment app so you can try on your nail color shade virtually.

disclaimer: I received this product for potential review.

Daisha gets Beachy with BeautiControl

2011-08-10T08:12:00.000-04:00

Daisha and Anaya

While on vacationing back home in southern California, I couldn't help but notice my sister-in-law Daisha's gorgeous makeup!

Daisha has been a die hard Beauty Control fan for about 8 months and so much so, she is also a consultant for the brand.

After a day at the beach, she filled me in on her favorite products that give her that beachy glow!

For eyes she uses BeautiControl's Intense Mineral Shadows in Red Carpet ready with Mirage Highlighter. To sculpt her cheeks she uses the Secret Agent Tricolor Bronzer with MAC's Peach Twist and for her lips she uses BC's Plum lip liner with matching Plum lipgloss.

If you are interested in achieving Daisha's look, you can email her here.

Chloe Moretz 's Love magazine cover

2011-08-07T16:44:00.002-04:00

Hit Girl from Kick-Ass is just one of the 8 covermodels featured for Love magazines 6th Supernatural A/W issue.
All photograghs were done by Meet Alas &Marcus Piggot.
I love her Vivienne Westwood horns. I have about 400 pages of this issue to digest!

American Apparel NEON Nail Lacquer: Neon Red - Review

2011-08-04T21:02:00.000-04:00

"As bright as day as bright as night.." just to semi-paraphrase the Green Lantern, is how I would describe American Apparel's NEON Nail Lacquer collection. Actually, a deadpan word to describe the colors is "Fluo" in every french sense of the work. The shade I chose to demystify is Neon Red simply because red wasn't present at all, the color is more like an electric watermelon. While there is little to no hint of red in this lacquer, the color is rather impressive. Extremely bold and attention grabbing that the sales woman in AmAp commented on the shade when I tested in on my pinkie finger but when I got home, I reserved this color for swatches and to brighten my toes.

LOL Beauty x Molton Brown Beauty event

2011-08-01T15:37:00.001-04:00

Laura of LOL Beauty

Last Thursday I was invited to a beauty event hosted by LOL beauty at Molton Brown in Soho! While I've seen Molton Brown in countless magazines (Allure, Vogue Paris, etc) ,I've never experienced the luxury bath and body line from London until now.

Within 5 minutes of me walking into the boutique, I was greated by some of the best of NYC's beauty and fashion bloggers who were discussing their Fashion Night Out and New York Fashion Week plans while sipping wine and munching on fruits and veggies. While mingling, we were treated to Heavenly Gingerlily Body Cream Hand and Cedrus Temple SootherTemple massages by Molton Brown and educated on the origins of the unique ingredients in their products.

Since I was preparing for another weekend trip, I decided to pick up some of MB's products for myself. The Blissful Templetree Moisture Bath and Shower smells like a high-seas vacation in a bottle. I think I'm going to purchase another bottle soon. I also love the Skin Refresh Facial Wash. It goes on so soothing, kinda like aloe with a little lather and no dryness.

Chanel Dragon 475 Le Vernis

2011-07-10T20:12:00.001-04:00

Found: a true-blue red that is flattering on all skin-tones, Chanel's Dragon 475 Le Vernis!

This has been my summer go to shade since I bought it at the Bay in Toronto earlier this year and I hear that it will be re-released this holiday season!

Soothing Summer Skin with Sebamed Cleansing Shower Oil

2011-07-09T08:15:00.000-04:00

While we are all excited about the high temperatures, beaches and sun bathing ( with SPF of course), I often find that caring for my skin post fun in the sun is daunting. It's tricky finding a way to get the hot and stickiness of you like... yesterday when it seems as though you are shrouded in a cloud of humidity and your skin is on the verge of peeling from sunburns.

Well say hello to Sebamed Cleansing Shower Oil, an ultra- mild , 100% soap-free skin conditioning gel that gets rid of the your sticky summer product goop without dryness or irritation. Sebamed product line is also free of parabens and adjusts to a pH of 5.5 to help maintain your moisture level.

For the past few weeks I've been pleasantly pleased with Sebamed Cleansing shower oil as its ultra soothing to my skin and post shower, I don't need to put on any body lotion ( which is amazing as my skin is super dry), I just put on my SPF and go!

Sebamed products are available at www.sebamedusa.com and drugstore.com

disclaimer: I received this products as a sample, my thoughts and opinions of this product are of my own.

Summer 2011: NARS Wonder lipgloss

2011-07-08T10:06:00.000-04:00

Just when you think the citrus craze has brought us "lippie addicts" all the greatest lipsticks, glosses and glazes for Summer 2011, comes NARS Cosmetics Wonder lipgloss.
This juicy shade is described as a sheer mandarin orange shade with pink and gold shimmer on NARS' website and it it true to the description.
I find that if you are intimidated by other interpretations of bold citrus lipcolors, that you will be pleasantly surprised by wonder. Its a "mirror-free" shade, meaning you don't need a mirror to apply to know that it looks good ( something I tend to do with my other prized orange spectrum lippies).

Wonder lipgloss is limited edition and is available at NARS Cosmetics.com and Sephora.com

Christian Dior Haute Couture Winter 2011-2012

2011-07-04T16:42:00.002-04:00

It's haute couture season in Paris right now and Christian Dior Kicked things off with pretty pastels. ruffles and the houses current sold out hit nail vernis, St. Tropez.

The first few models sported a shade like this aqua teal color on their nails at this mornings show. Hopefully the St. Tropez will be available at Dior counters but until then, its available online at Dior.com, however its currently sold out.

photos: vogue.fr

Summer Fierceness with Leizel @ Bar 13

2011-07-02T14:30:00.000-04:00

Who can beat a long awaited summer day, roof- top food tasting and.. did I mention they had white truffle popcorn? Anyway, this past Thursday I was invited to " Stuff yo Mouth", Marsh's retirement Party at Bar 13 by my good friend Leizel and she happily shared her secret to her fierce summer beauty routine.. Bonita lipstick!

Summer Fierceness @ Bar 13 with Dee and Michael Antonio

2011-07-02T07:09:00.000-04:00

Pictured L to R: Dee at Double-D Productions and Michael Antonio at Michael Antonio.net

On the way out from a summer soiree last night, Leizel and I spotted these beauties on our way out. Dee is wearing NARS Eyepencil topped with MAC on the lips and Michael Antonio is looking flawless in MAC!

Summer Spectacular photoshoot!

2011-07-01T08:07:00.002-04:00

It's 4th of July weekend! And I'm kicking the blazing month of July into high gear with sharing some photos that were shot a few weeks back by the incredible photographer Stephanie Noritz!

What I'm wearing: Balenciaga Dress

What I'm wearing: Lanvin x H&M faux fur vest, American Apparel Black Tank, F21 Black Jeans and Christian Lacroix Satin heels

What I'm wearing: Lanvin x H&M faux fur vest and American Apparel Black Tank Top.

I hope you enjoy and Happy 4th!

Gleam Supreme:Topshop Sunrise Highlighter

2011-06-29T13:12:00.000-04:00

Topshop Sunrise Highlighter

Sunrise Highlighter swatch with no Flash

Sunrise Highlighter Swatch with Flash

As you may or may not know, highlighters and bronzers are two things I covet when it comes to cosmetics. I think it's because I was too young to appreciate the contouring of the Eighties! I guess now its time to shine!

Topshop brings a highlighter that is part of its permanent makeup line that is truely made for everyone. Sunrise Highlighter can be used as either a cheek lighter or a bronzer, I use it interchangibly as the copper tone of the baked mineral powder works as a highlighter between the apples of my cheek and my temple and for the body, it gives a warm toasty tone of my clavical and shoulders. The product looks baked and the compact fits in the palm of your hand. I know Topshop is opening new stores soon, but not soon enough! You can check this out online at Topshop.com

Oribe Supershine Moisturizing Cream

2011-06-27T21:41:00.006-04:00

Hey There! Its officially summer and I'm ready to get busy with lots of reviews on some beloved products that can keep you looking scorching hot without feeling the wrath of the sun!
Up first for summer is my new favorite once a week leave-in conditioning cream and my favorite beauty mistake, Oribe's Supershine Moisturizing Cream!
While traveling in LA in March, I stopped by Fred Segal's New Beauty Apothecary to browse and ended up enamored with all the ranges of products! The sales assistant there was helpful as I told her that I was traveling without any hair products to use while in town and was preparing for a night out with my friends in West Hollywood. She pointed me in the direction of Oribe and picked up the Supershine Moisture cream and said that a little goes along way. I rubbed a bit in my hands and then added to my hair and was in love with the lightly floral/fruity fragrance. She then told me that the 5 oz. bottle was $24. So, I decided to get it- as I thought that the price was pretty good. Well, this was the mistake because as the sales guy rang me up, the price was actually $49. I think my jaw dropped, had I been looking to purchase this before hand, I would have done some research on the price but as I was in the area and was looking for a great product- this was steep!
Luckily, the sales guy who was listening to our hair engagement all along told me about the misquote and rang me up for the mentioned $24. Looking back on this experience has made me think, if I run out of my cream now, I would probably buy another, price-tag or not. This cream is an excellent moisturizer and provides great shine!
Where to find: Fred Segal Beauty, C.O Bigelow.com, Bloomingdales

DIY Beauty: Lacroix's Obsession

2011-06-19T07:41:00.000-04:00

In light of MAC's Blogger Obsessions collection launching on June 21st, I figured it was time for me to create a new beauty product, even though my confection won't be available to the masses, it should inspire you to take what you've got and make what you want with it.
With that, I present to you, Shangri-La Multi-Glow.

Shangri-La with Flash

Shangri-La with no flash

The color, a hot mustard honey-yellow with gold and peach subtle shimmer was inspired by Shangri-La, the mythical place described in the 1933 novel Lost Horizon, an earthly paradise isolated from the outside world. Shangri- La was also briefly conceptualized in Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow.

This multi-functional color was created with some of the following ingredients:
MAC Goldenrod Eyeshadow
YSL Palette Fauve yellow-orange eyeshadow
MAC Fresco Cream Color Base
Smith's Rosebud Salve

Shangri-La be used as a luminizer on the face or as a lip color. I recently used it as a lip color and love the result. Swatches to come!

Launching June 21st- MAC's Blogger's Obsessions

2011-06-18T18:42:00.000-04:00

In April, MAC invited 9 bloggers to create their very own Lipglass and Eyeshadows for us to enjoy! Among the nine are Patrice from Afrobella.com; Wendy from Nitrolicious.com and Karen from Makeupandbeautyblog.com who contributed some lipglass shades that are already creating a buzz on other beauty and fashion blogs as well as the Twitterverse!
The launch is exclusively online for the US and Canada.
I hope I'm able to get my hands on lipglass creations!
In the meantime, I think I am due to create my own cosmetic confection...

Jewelry to kick-start your Summer Style

2011-06-18T10:34:00.002-04:00

Eddie Borgo at JCrew- The 2011 CFDA award winning Accessories Designer launched the much anticipated JCrew collaboration. The collection brings pearls and gold studs to nude hued cuffs, necklaces and bows to perfectly enhance JCrew t-shirt, jeans and khaki aesthetic.

Pamela Love for Topshop- The 2011 CFDA nominated and purveyor of nature in jewelry has debuted a collection with Topshop that's as cool as her Talon Cuffs ( and cheaper). Pamela Love for Topshop features dream catcher inspired necklaces and earrings alongside other southwestern us inspired jewelry.

Promise Rings from MyJewelryBox- 2011 Grads, promise your friends, loved one's ,Grandmother's that you will be close to their hearts with promise rings. Whether they are for your BF, GF or your BFF you can wear them on your fingers or add some chain to rock as a necklace. Just had to add" put a ring on it".

Colorful Beaded Bracelets from Forever 21- Bring out the most in your wardrobe vibrant beaded bangles. With Colorblocking being this season's hottest trend, striking beaded jewelry can spruce up the tertiary colors for your look.

disclaimer: This is a sponsored post.

Custom Bronze! Dior Self -Tanner Natural Glow

2011-06-17T13:35:00.001-04:00

My journey with self adjusting color cosmetics is much like the extremes of a pendulum. The products are either a(n) " Epic Fail" (like Dr. Perricone's No Foundation and L'Oreal's True Match) or "Practically Custom Fit" ( like Maybelline's Fit Me and MAC's Hyperreal Foundation). I'm happy to announce that Dior Bronze Self- Tanner is in the latter category.
Dior Bronze is a gel-cream self tanner that adjusts to your pH level to give you a natural bronze that you would otherwise get from staying out in the sun.
As a test, I rubbed about a dime-sized thin layer of the gel-cream on my inner arm to see if 1. I would have an allergic reaction and 2. to see how long it would take for the change to take effect. The result, thankfully there was no allergic reaction and it took about 20 minutes for the color to appear. The color toneage was spot- on to what would happen to me if I were exposed to the sun for about 2 hours ( minus the sunburn and skin peel). The color has lasted for about 2 days. The only down side to this product is that it doesn't have SPF, which you will need to add yourself.
As a Bronzer for the Bronzed sun worshiper, I'm excited for a new product like this because my beloved powders, sticks and liquid bronze products leave me sticky in NYC's humidity and on the beaches of California. A plus for Dior Bronze is that I can use this during the day and not have to worry about staining my clothing! and save my othe bronzers for when its cool in the evening.

Review: Kimble Haircare Leave-in Conditioner

2011-06-14T08:04:00.000-04:00

We are practically at the home stretch with spring and summer is next week. I've spent the last 2 months researching and testing some great hair gems that I'll be sharing here.

A few months ago, I ran out of my trusty Pantene Relaxed and Natural Leave-in hair spray and I've looked all over for this commodity in NYC. While in Target, I took a chance on Kimberly Kimble's Leave-in Conditioner as I've heard great things about her products.

Kimble's Leave-in conditioner is light yet conditions well ( I use it 2-3x a week). The first three ingredients are : Water, Cetyl Alcohol and Cetrimonium Chloride and includes Brazilian Nut, Acai Berry and Shea Butter.

I like to use leave-in conditioners when I'm detangling my hair before blowdrying and have found that it moisturizes so well that I can apply to my wet hair, twist my hair into buns and sleep on it and awaken to frizz and tangle- free curls!

I'm now prepared for Summer Hair Heaven!

DIY: 4 Homemade Household Beauty Remedies

2011-06-08T23:28:00.001-04:00

What beauty lies within your cabinets and pantries? Here are 4 products that can help you from head to toe without even stepping out of the house.

Baking Soda
Purpose: Absorption and Exfoliation.

-Blemish treatment- Create a paste with a pinch of Baking Soda and a tiny bit of water and apply to your pimples for 15 minutes to minimize your breakout.
- Facial Scrub and/or Speedy Pedicure - Baking Soda can be used as an exfoliator for your face and your feet when in a hurry. Scrub with a handful of baking soda and a cap full of water.
- Spill solver- Absorbs oils on clothing, just sprinkle a dime size amount onto your spill and rinse the affected area.

Lemons
Purpose: Lighten and Brighten.

In a previous post, I touched a bit on how Lemons are effective as an all natural deodorant but they can also be used to lighten your locks and nails.
- DIY Ombre Hair- use lemon to bleach the tips of your hair with this mixture: 1/4 cup of lemon juice, 1/2 cup of water and 1/4 cup of vinegar. Afterward, to condition your hair, use olive oil to protect your new color.
- Whiten your nails by rubbing lemons on the tips and follow-up with soaking in warm water for 15 minutes.
- Create a brightening facial with a mix of honey, lemon, oatmeal and water. All these mixed together can create a moisturizing and brightening mask. Recommended time to leave on, 15 minutes.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Purpose: Clarifying, Detangling and Dandruff-free.

- Detangler- A mix of 3/4 water to 1/4 Apple Cider Vinegar is my favorite post shampoo mix. Just this bit of ACV detangles my hair and gets rid of any post shampoo bubbles and product buildup. If the smell is too strong for you, when making your mixture, boil Rosemary , Lavender or Mint into the water to get rid of the sour smell.

Baby Powder
Purpose: Oil Absorbing.

- Dry Shampoo- Sprinkle a bit of Baby Powder onto sections of your hair that are full of product. Then take a Bristol brush and brush the powder out. This gets rid of some of the product but just make sure that you brush the remnants out or you will look like Beetle Juice ( for those with dark hair).

Read more about cleaning tips at Reader's Digest.ca

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post

The Avant Garde Wedding Veil

2011-06-05T23:16:00.000-04:00

So, while at my friends wedding last month, I came up with this Avant Garde Veil idea. Maybe its the Sci-fi geek in me over thinking creative future concepts, I don't know. But I had a "vision" nonetheless, what if a bride had a veil that was like a thin tulle bird cage as she walked down the isle. The "cage veil", if you will, would start at the waist and go over her head ( with her arms inside) and would stay until she got to the alter. Once at the alter, the veil can be peeled like flower petals and inverted so that the tulle can create an extra sheer layer to the lower half of the wedding gown.
I pitched the idea to friends who said, I should try this.. I did have a clear picture however, communicating this was.. challenging.. haha and my sketching is well, poor. Also, as you can tell from my sketch, I'm not a designer.

I started by thinking about how I was going to start this project and remembered back to one Easter where my family made paper mache baskets, only we replaced paper with yarn. Then the veil idea started to come together on a mini scale.
This project highlights a mini- veil from my neck to the top of my head to test and to see if a larger one would work , maybe utilizing the same materials so that it can eventually look kinda like the one in my sketch.

I used the following:
- 2 yards of Tulle and Aleene's Stiffen Quick from PS Fabrics & Crafts in NYC
-12 inch latex Balloons from Party City
-Fabric scissors
- a small plastic bowl
- 2 brown Trader Joes bags

To start, I cut 1/4 of a yard of tulle and cut one Trader Joe's bag into a pattern of a giant ( about 15 inch) petal. Next I blew a balloon up. Then the fun begins! Pattern cutting! I utilized all of the cut tulle to create "petals".
After all of your petals are cut, you begin to pour about 2 cups of Stiffen Quick into a plastic bowl, which you will use to dip the petals into. Following, using the soaked petals, you will cover your inflated balloon. The final step in the Mache-ing project will to place the petal covered balloon onto the top of an open brown paper grocery bag so that when the starch dries, it doesn't get everywhere.
Below are videos of the next steps.
- petal cutting
- dipping the tulle petals into a small bowl of Stiffen Quick
- placing the petals onto the balloon ( Mache-ing)
- placing the covered balloon onto the paperbag

Though the Stiffen Quick solution suggests a 1 hour dry time, I waited 3 days to ensure the solution was completely dry. The next step is to pop the balloon. Surprisingly, the solution wasn't at all stuck to the balloon as it looked like it was.

Balloon pop was a success! I cut about a 6 inch diameter at the bottom of the sphere and 2 slits up two opposing sides so that I can slip the veil over my head.

Success!

The unveiling was pretty smooth, peeling off the petal layers wasn't rough but there were a few starch flakes that fell but they weren't enough to cause concern. I'm so happy that this mini-veil worked out!

My takeaway for the next time, an actual veil is that I will try to starch only the edges of the fabric so that the unveiling is a bit more smoother.

Now where am I going to find a 3 foot balloon?

What's in your Makeup Bag- June 5th

2011-06-05T10:51:00.007-04:00

I don't change my makeup bag often but couldn't pass up this cute red floral kitsch clutch from Forever 21 that was $4.90.

So, what's in the bag for Sunday, June 5th? Seeing as I am going to see Tony Kushner's Off-Brodway play this afternoon, I'm keeping it minimal. Plus, who wants to hoard a bunch of products in their bag? am I right?.. I only carry about 6 lipglosses on me ( ok, ok I carry 7).

- Eyeko Big Eyes Mascara- this is my revisited favorite. They used to carry the line at Ulta but now they have the mascara in Urban Outfitters, on my latest visit I got it on sale for a cool $4.99.

- Chanel Rouge Allure Laque in Coromandel 72- my new favorite red. The color is a vibrant red blood orange that's flattering and easy to use as a stain with some gloss or applied full and amplified.

- YSL Touche Eclat- when it comes to a highlighter and concealer, this is the one that gets me through when I am in a pinch- mirror or non.

What's in your makeup bag for this week?

Spring Wardrobe Staple from Deefinity Designs

2011-05-22T12:34:00.001-04:00

Does your Spring Wardrobe need a lift but you don't want to inject another $100 into a new cami or skirt?

Accent your wardrobe with a beachy shell necklace like the one here from NYC based Deefinity Designs!
LTBB reader Deanne creates timeless pieces to add some flair to your wardrobe that needs a good kick sans the big budget spectacle.
All pieces are unique and handcrafted, much like my thistle necklace shown in the photo. Plus she does custom pieces too!

You can contact Deanne at deefinitydesigns@gmail.com or check out her etsy page at http://www.deefinitydesigns.etsy.com/

Skincare Review: Egyptian Magic

2011-05-21T08:17:00.003-04:00

Have you ever glossed over a product in a magazine and then completely forgot about it, only for it to pop-up time and time again?
Egyptian Magic is my... this thing. Most recently I read about it on Into the Gloss as model Caroline Trentini swears by this product but I first heard about this way back when Naomi Campbell was interviewed as swearing by this too, so what's up with this "magic" or as the bf would say "schmutz"?

Egyptian Magic is described as a 100% all-natural ingredient product containing olive oil, royal jelly, beeswax, propolis, honey and beeswax that can be used for all-purpose needs.
You can use it to moisturize lips and your skin, treat bruises and skin conditions and you can even use it to condition frizzy hair.
The consistancy is like a balm ( I liken it to a Queen Helene Cocoa Butter stick) that melts upon contact with heat. Plus, a little goes a long way.
With the research, I justified putting down $32 for 8 oz of this wonder cream that I bought at a pharmacy in the West Village and I immidately put it to work.
*First challange, The Dude takes a spill on his bike and has a HUGE bruise on his thigh, he put on Egyptian magic before bed time and in the morning, some of the discoloration was gone, the black and blue moved into a dark greenish territory.. so far ok for bruises.
*One Saturday I was out of leave-in conditioner for my weekend hair buns and decided to put a bit in my hair, the results were an A! There was no stickiness nor greasiness, it calmed my hair down much like my beloved new leave-in conditioner ( up for review very soon!).
This is a leave-in to believe in!
*Next challange, Dry Skin. I just finished with my Sunday Beauty Self -Pedi Party and was all out of lotion, I took a less-than generous scoop of the Egyptian Magic and both of my feet were coated in glory. Yay!
* Last, a night cream. The challange- success! Even with my oily skin, this did well. It didn't create a slick but it was gentle enough to help calm the two blemishes on my cheeks all night.

Overall the experiments with Egyptian Magic have been worth it. My only gripe is, where to find it. True, it is available on Amazon but sometimes you just want to test or try it out before committing to purchase.
Anyway, I think its the bee's knees thus far!

DIY: DOTW Clothing Tags

2011-05-19T20:57:00.001-04:00

Aww yes, you are amidst " Spring Cleaning", juggling between extreme rain and 70 degree weather, deciding whether to toss that two-year old cargo jacket or keep the calve-length skinny black boots while putting your winter clothes in either the "Donate" or " Hybernate" pile.
It's taken me over a month to go through Spring Wardrobe cleaning just because of the fickle weather but, I have managed to sift through a majority of my wardrobe!
So what now? How do I make the closet a "fun" place to wake up and plan my wardrobe?
No fear, keep track of your daily outfits with Do-it-yourself Day of the week clothing tags!
The materials are bare-bones simple and it puts some pep into reaching for you clothing each day.

Materials:
- 3x5 Index cards ( 7-8 cards)
-Magazines ( old ones will do)
-Nail polish
-Ribbon ( 1/2 yard)
- Scissors
- Glue stick

Instructions:

1.To start, cut or rip pieces of inspiration from your magazine and glue it down to your index card. ( See Pic below!)

2. Next fold the center of the index card in half and cut a "V" at the top middle crease and thread through an approximate 3 inch piece of ribbon.

3. Choose a nail polish color, to paint on the Day of the week for each card. Below I chose OPI's You Don't Know Jacque for Monday.

4. Let the card dry in a well ventilated area for approximately 45 minutes.

Voila! you have your Day of the week tabs for Monday through Sunday and a G for Gentile and a D for Delicates!

Enjoy!

Revisited: MAC for Alexander McQueen and the Savage Beauty Experience

2011-05-09T08:29:00.003-04:00

MAC for Alexander McQueen Fall 2007. Clockwise: New Vegas Mineralized Skinfinish, Pagan Eyeshadow, Haunting Eyeshadow, Nile Eyeshadow and Archetype lipstick

Swatches from top to bottom: Pagan,Haunting, Nile, New Vegas and Archetype

Pieces from Alexander McQueen's Savage Beauty Exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

This weekend I went to the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Alexander McQueen Savage Beauty exhibition and was totally emasculated by all of works that were shared from his collections.
Last week, upon hearing that the exhibition would be opening a few days after the Met Ball hosted by Vogue and Anna Wintour, I started going through my makeup stash, revisiting my MAC for Alexander McQueen collection from October 2007. The MAC for Alexander McQueen collection was inspired by the Salem Witch trials, with which he had a familial connection and Elizabeth Taylor in Cleopatra. The makeup look was from Taylor's role as Cleopatra, strong eyebrows, heavy eyeshadow with extended cat-eye and glowing skin.
I remember my initial thoughts of the collection of vibrant yellow-greens, sea-foam teal and golden as too out there, but they worked well once applied, whether it was everyday subtle with a "wash" of color on the lid and a dab of lipstick or applied heavy and dramatic.
This collection was ahead of its time just like its co-creator, Alexander McQueen.
Savage Beauty brought you some of his pieces from his famed Central Saint Martins thesis collection and some pieces he created in the early late 1990's while he worked for Givenchy up until his last runway collection shown Plato's Atlantis.
My favorite was his fall 2005 collection which was displayed on a chess board, with each model being moving chess pieces and the inspiration ranged from a pucci-esque swimsuit with football pads to overly curvy silhouette's with horsehair trim and Gemma Ward having a carved bonsai tree as a headpiece. The color palette featured camel, lilac and a melting pot of colors in between.

The Savage Beauty Exhibit at the Met is open until July 31st and I definitely plan to revisit in the next month or so. I loved it all, the videos, the collections, the thoughts and the clothing. So moving and theatrical, there is and will be nothing else like it.

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T20:27:00.001-04:00

A special "Thank you" and Happy Mother's Day to all those dedicated Mom's out there.
We wouldn't be who we are without you!

Win it!: Mother's Day Giveaway!

2011-05-05T03:00:00.000-04:00

How to Enter the Mother's Day Give away:

Leave a comment in this post or send an email to Lacroixthebeautyblog at gmail.com .

One (1) lucky winner will be chosen at random from the entries/comments in this post to receive one (1) Pureology Color Stylist Antisplit Blowdry Styling Cream, one (1) Sinfully Colors Professional Nail Color in Daddy's Girl (deep glittery purple) , one (1) Everyday Minerals Cheek Blush in Opening Day (lavender) and one (1) Susan Ciminelli Calming Cream.

Special Thanks to Pretty City.com for the products.

Giveaway Starts: Thursday, May 5, 2011 – Now
Giveaway Ends: Tuesday, May 10, 2011 – 11:59pm EST
Winner will be announced via email on Thursday, May 12, 2011

Topshop Spring 2011 Nail Color: Cyclone

2011-05-04T21:50:00.000-04:00

With all the new Spring nail collections debuting soft, pastel mint's, yellow's and lavender's, its nice to know that there is a new definition of the spring nail that incorporates metallic silver like Topshop's Cyclone Nail Varnish from the Sandstorm Collection.
The Sandstorm Collection is inspired by the beauty of the desert music festivals and includes metallic eyeliners, a blush and fuchsia and orange toned glosses.
So if you need a quick escape from a painfully cute and toxic spring, get hip to some road tripping shades.

Skincare on the go: Purederm Mask

2011-05-01T11:24:00.000-04:00

Masked!

A lesson learned from skincare and time constraint, is that we must compromise! And if that means putting on my mask while cleaning the bathroom, checking email and doing research on products, then so be it!
When I was a teen, I was doing a beauty night but had to run an errand with my mom. I ended up going out at night with my Queen Helen Mint Julep mask on and completely forgot that it was on my face! Needless to say, I got tons of stares by drivers and their passengers. Another lesson, never wear a mask too long! After the hour journey, in washing my face, my skin was beyond dry, it was saharan desert.
Fast forward to a beauty party hosted by my friends Thy and Soda, a fete that included cookies, wine and Purederm masks that we picked up at Forever 21 for $1.80!
The peel-away aloe masks are made with cloth like fiber and have enough solution to instantly cool your skin and you only need 20 minutes for your skin to feel smooth. No messing with rinsing or worrying about covering your sink with clay or oatmeal.

You can find these at Forever21 stores. Unfortunately, they are not available on their website.

Weekend Nails: Topshop's Delusion Nail Varnish

2011-04-30T13:16:00.004-04:00

This dusty lilac has been my fave all week! For those who love creamy pastel colors, this one's for you! Though on my bottle, the name of this nail polish ( varnish) is Parma Violet, Topshop's website has its name as Delusion.

What is your weekend nail color?

Dupe it: Chanel Mimosa 577

2011-04-23T13:15:00.000-04:00

So somewhere in the cosmetic universe there is a dupe for Chanel's Mimosa? Yes there is!
But be advised, just as Mimosa is limited edition, so is its $4 dupe buddy, Maybelline's Banana Bamba.
I stumbled upon the latter at Rite Aid while perusing the isles looking for a dupe for the beloved but way since discontinued, MAC's YumYam. Though YumYam was creamier and lacked shimmer, I put Banana Bamba away n my nail drawer. Now , two nights ago while looking for a nail color change up, I grabbed Banana Bamba and placed it next to Mimosa, and the colors from the bottle looked identical. They are both shimmery yellow and it took three coats per nail for proper coverage.
Next step, I took the flash picture above since I was lacking proper sunlight and have been with our wacky sunny for 2 seconds and hovering rain cloud NYC weather.

If want to experiment with a Mimosa like color but at a cheaper price, you will be in luck with Maybelline's Banana Bamba.

Burt's Bees Tiger Lily Tinted Balm

2011-04-21T14:40:00.000-04:00

Could Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm be the most coveted lip product this season? Since seeing Hibiscus in a mag in Feb, I've been on a leisure hunt for this to try for myself. WARNING: A hunt you will get as a few Target's I've gone to in San Diego, LA and NYC were all sold out , as were Rite Aid . Then I strolled into Whole Foods while seeking cupcakes and came across 3 of the 6 shades available.

Burt's Bees Tinted Lipbalm can be described at best, surprisingly smooth and melts like butter. The texture is not "waxy" or "filmy" in a way that I feel with other lipbalm products. The color payoff is excellent for a tint. Its not chalky and it builds so that the color blends. I chose Tigerlily, an Apricot-Peachesque color that certainly lives up to the flora namesake.

The lipbalm itself is described as 100% natural , with coconut oil as the first ingredient. The colors that are available are: Hibiscus, Honeysuckle, Pink Blossom, Red Dahlia, Rose and Tigerlily.

This was a lot more than what I expected for $6.99 and I will definitely going back to explore the other colors.

Moin Cher: Chloe Spring/Summer 2011

2011-04-18T00:08:00.000-04:00

Moin cher please!

As an avid lover of french designer labels, I find myself wondering how I can I afford a high fashion label and afford to eat each month ( though PB& J for a month isn't entirely a bad option..) and how can I re-create runway looks from the stores around in my area.
Well the latter can be applied if you are looking for the Spring/Summer ready-to-wear full-length skirt look from Chloe.
My guestimation is that Chloe's full length skirt will run you somewhere between an arm and a leg. But while in American Apparel, shopping for my Dr. Bronner's Lavender soap I checked out a rack of chiffon full length Skirts, they look almost identical to the Chloe look and are a fraction less ($50).
So if you are looking to experiment with full-length skirts but don't want to dish out the funds for something you may wear once and bundle at the bottom of your closet, go moin cher and pick up the AmAp version.

Review:NARS Laguna Illuminator

2011-04-13T05:08:00.000-04:00

So Illuminating!

Now that spring is finally upon us, the weather is 70 degrees on Monday and 50 degrees with 85% precipitation on Wednesday means that the base on your face should be able to withstand the yo-yo unpredictability of the season.
In comes NARS Illuminator, a multi-functioning tinted shimmer, perfect for pairing with your daily face moisturizer for a great base with a bit of shimmer to play up your favorite features.
I chose Laguna, a "sun-kissed bronze" to use with my daily Clinique Turnaround Creme. The color reminded me of the gold flecks that are in the damp sand at the beach.
For the evening, blend a nickel size amount with your foundation for a beautiful sheen while out on the town. Another plus, a little goes along way. A dime size or less for day is just enough.
There is a bit of similarity between NARS' Illuminator and YSL's Teint Parfait, the latter is more glittery (especially #8) so using less than a dime is the best way to go unless you are glamming your gams or your decolletee. Plus the price is significant- NARS Illuminator is $28 whereas YSL's Teint Parfait is $42.

Chanel Summer 2011: Soleil Tan De Chanel Bronze Corail 537 Swatches

2011-04-06T11:48:00.000-04:00

Bronze Corail is a universal way to ring in Summer 2011!

Chanel Soleil De Tan Bronze Corail 537

Chanel's bronzer from this summer's Les Fleurs d'Ete de Chanel collection has been on my mind since I saw a sneak peak of the collection on Karlasugar. I was surprised when my store didn't yet have the Rouge Coco Shine's but had the Summer collection!

Bronze Corail features 4"horizon's" of color from the top:

Horizon 1: Taupy Shimmer

Horizon 2: Champagne Shimmer

Horizon 3: Chocolate brown Shimmer

Horizon 4: Coral Shimmer

I was so excited to see the shades that I enlisted the help of my friend V to show how flattering the blush is on a range of skintones. For reference, V is NW20ish and uses Vichy 20. We used an eyeshadow brush to apply the bronzer starting from left to right. The photos were taken with no-flash under a bright light.

Chanel's Summer 2011 Les Fleurs d'Ete debuts late April/early May.

Spring 2011 Hair: The Nouveau Bob

2011-04-05T22:51:00.001-04:00

Wake up, you're not dreaming!

Roughly a month ago, I started to notice that my hair needed a change. My strands were limp and frankly, I was tired of cutting my hair myself!
I started to do some research, as a transplant from San Diego, I'd been going to Anthony Randall every leap year since I was 18. But now, I'm devoid of his trusted hands and am in a sea of new salons. I had no clue where to start! Should I go for the $400 cut with a celeb stylist? Ok, no maybe I just need a trim? Do they accept walk-in's? I can't wait until Sept?!
Then I remembered this place I always passed in the East Village on my way to Tokyo Joe's and Buffalo Exchange, Soon Beauty Lab. It looked pretty chill on the outside so I decided to stop by on a rainy Monday Evening.
Having relaxed hair, I'm precautious of places that 1. are scissor happy and 2. don't understand that I need moisture like no one's business. Nicole at Soon Beauty Lab removed all doubt and gave me a much needed hair reminder ( i.e. REMINDER: No Serums!) and a fabulous new hair cut, evening my hair leaving it thick and long enough to put in a ballet bun (my daily) or pony tail. The cut was well worth the price $70! Plus trims are $15 so I can up keep every other month.

Now, a month later, I slept the evening before with 2 ballet buns on my head and combed my hair out into this slightly wavy do that lasted all day! I was so excited about my 'do , I took a flash-blink photo ( plus I was make-up free and on my way out the door to work).

If you are in the city and looking for a great new spring look, check out Soon!
318 E.11th St
(btw 1st/2nd av)
212-260-4423
or
Chelsea location
54 W. 22nd St
(btw 5th/6th av)
212-243-0245

Chanel Summer 2011: Mimosa 577 and Morning Rose 557

2011-04-04T20:09:00.003-04:00

Just got my Chanel Summer Nail Colours from the store today. I'll have swatches up later this week as I need to test them out and I lost sunlight on my way home.
I also picked up Soleil Tan De Chanel in Bronze Corail (537)..let's just say that this bronzer has it all and is nothing short of amazing.
Behold Mimosa ( 577) and Morning Rose ( 557) Nail Vernis!
Are you ready for Summer?

Review: Maybelline Fit Me Foundation in 355

2011-04-03T11:40:00.000-04:00

While in LA, I managed to find Maybelline's Fit Me foundation in 355 at a Target. Judging from the ads, my tone is deeper than Jessica White's who sports 355 but the foundation blended pretty well with my Chanel Chestnut, NARS Benares/New Orleans tone. I do have to say that since I have a case of oily skin, I should have mattified before using as I put this on in the evening without washing my face since the morn. Yeah, I was rushing but hey, the color was close to my complexion and it wore for about 4 hours. I cut the time short as I had to wash my face before crash landing and falling asleep. I haven't seen this tone at my local Target or Duane Reade for that matter but I'm sure that it can be found either on-line. Enjoy!

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Bonheur #61

2011-04-01T15:45:00.000-04:00

Rouge Coco Shine Bonheur #61 with No flash

Bonheur #61 Rouge Coco Shine with Flash

Finally! I've had time to wear and enjoy Bonheur since I purchased it in Toronto a few weeks ago. I would describe Bonheur as very close in color, about a shade or two deeper than the Imaginare Glossimer but in a stick form. Yes, that describes it!

I love this color and the wear is smooth and moisturizing. I would only advise that if you prep your lips with a balm before hand, the color will be faint. My suggestion would be to either skip prepping your lips as the Rouge Coco Shine formula is very moisturizing or prep at least 30 minutes ahead of time.

I also like the fact that Rouge Coco Shine makes it possible for you to grab and go in your makeup routine. I can say I can confidently put it on without a mirror and know that the color looks well.

Which shade from the range are you looking forward to from Rouge Coco Shine?

Lemons- a Deodorant Alternative?

2011-03-28T20:56:00.003-04:00

photo: thebestjuicerreviews.com

Yes!
First let me start off by saying, Hello!
I'm fully re-cooped from my travels back to the West Coast for some fun and the sun with friends and family. All while I was caught up in packing about two weeks ago, I forgot my deodorant on the floor in my apartment!
As luck would have it, I was reading an issue of Upscale Magazine on the plane and in a editorial, I read that actor Flex Alexander ( you know that I was a fan of Homeboys from Outerspace right?) used lemon as a deodorant. What?!
Being the beauty experimentalist that I have, I decided to test it out and bought a lemon and cut it into 4 wedges, keeping the pieces in a plastic bag in the fridge and using one wedge for roughly 3 days just as I would my regular deodorant.
On the third day, I excitedly ran downstairs with announcement to my family who was sitting in the Living room and Kitchen , even having my mother smell my red and white stripe shirt that I just bought. After mom my looked at me like I was nuts, I informed her and my brothers that I have been without my deodorant for 3 whole days and was in fact using lemon.
They all laughed in my face and one of my brothers proclaimed, " We use it all the time in New Mexico because it always gets too hot for Speed stick". I was dumbfounded. " If this is not a new revelation, then why am I the last to know? I didn't sweat, there are no stains in my new shirt and I don't smell. This is insane?!"
My mom turned to me and said, "Oh, we thought you knew."
There you have it.
Back to Lemon as a deodorant, the feeling was unusual as I am used to sweating and feeling the antiperspirant stick under my arms. That feeling was gone, it felt as if nothing was there, but there was no bad odor. The only word of caution I can think of is if you freshly shaved, you might need to stay away from using lemon for at least a day or so.
I will definitely use the lemon more often as its 100% natural and a little goes a long way. Though I think you can get more for your money with a stick but the health factor is a plus.

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Swatches

2011-03-24T23:46:00.006-04:00

Left to Right: Royalieu, Fetiche, Bel-Ami, Rebelle, Bonheur

Lower Middle: Boy

Alas, here are just a few swatches of the Chanel Rouge Coco Shines I tested at the Bay in Toronto. According to the card I received from a counter in LA, the Rouge Coco Shines will launch on April 6th.

Chanel Rouge Coco Shines at The Bay

2011-03-16T09:29:00.000-04:00

Rouge Coco Shines from Left to Right: Monte Carlo, Rebelle, Bel-Ami, Antigone, Bonheur, Boy, Royalieu, Fetiche.

While enjoying my vacation in Toronto this past weekend, I popped into the Bay to see what they had and came out with a new Chanel Rouge Coco Shine!

The Bay had these highly anticipated RCS's available for purchase, there are 24 total in the collection but I swatched only a few, including Royalieu and Antigone which are believed to be exclusive to Canada and Fetische, the color Oscar nominated Hailee Steinfeld of True Grit wore to the 2011 Oscars.
From the photo, here are the color descriptions:
Monte Carlo- Pink Red
Rebelle- Orange Red
Bel-Ami- Plum Brown
Antigone- Red Berry
Bonheur- Berry Plum
Boy- Natural Rose
Royalieu- Sheer pink
Fetische- Rose

I swatched a few of the colors on my hands and if you have any doubt about the pigment power of the RCS, have no fear! If you have the same skintone as me, and are falling hard for a very moisturizing lipgloss with hints of shimmer, you will love these.
After deliborating between Bel-Ami and Bonheur, I decided on Bonheur. The SA let me know that it was the last one! The retail price in canadian dollars for the Rouge Coco Shines are $39! Making this the most expensive lip product I have bought! But in the US these will go for $32 and will release in April.
I wanted to share this as soon as my postings will be sporatic for the next few days as I'm in San Diego and LA. I will re-post with individual colors as I know these are quite small and I have hand swatches of some of these colors too!

PrettyCity.com & L'Institute Sothys Love you!

2011-03-08T14:41:00.000-05:00

I heart Pom fizzy drinks

Laura of Laf out Loud Beauty

give me face!

and what?

PrettyCitty.com's annual " Love you" campaign brought both myself and Amanda of Mandabear from Milk Studio in the Meat packing district to Mid-town Manhattan on a freezing Thursday evening to celebrate at L'Institute Sothys.
The beauty bash featured a runway show, mani's and pedi's, makeup application and some delicious Pom-tini's.
L'Institute is a gem, I couldn't stop taking pictures inside, after all the travel from downtown plus the 20 degree weather, a break was much needed. While awaiting Manicures , I met Laura from Laf out Loud Beauty who had a great shade of lipstick on.
The Spa is amazing! you should definitely take a peek if you are in the city!

If you are in Midtown and need a break from the lines at Abercrombie or the celeb hunting at Bergdorf's, go west to L'Institute Sothys!

37 West 57th Street
New York, NY 10019
212-688-9400

Fashion Post: Comme des Garcons Play x Converse

2011-02-26T10:13:00.000-05:00

How cute are these?
After purchasing these Play Comme des Garcons x Converse at Opening Ceremony this past weekend, I had to call my mom and tell her I bought tennis shoes ( wcoast)/ sneakers ( ecoast). Why the escandalo? Because I seriously haven't bought chill shoes in say.. 4 years? YES! The last "comfort" shoe I bought was a pair of Diesel's that are so worn that my brother attempted to throw them away because he was embarrased that I had worn them out. Other than the Diesel's, I have my trusty Ugg's for the winter because I'm not wearing heels in ice or snow- nor am I wearing my flats.
Since I'm in a super corporate environment, I dare not wear these at work unless its after hours but I do plan on busting these baby's out when the weather heats up as part of my spring wardrobe. Maybe with my black jeans and a red and white striped shirt from Zara and my Lanvin glasses... just catching my 2 month forward flash as its still not warm enough for me to indulge in cute footwear, lest I secure the dream of slipping and landing on my face thanks to an ice patch.
Oh Spring, where art thou?

Decorative Measures:Tocca Candle Box Beauty Tool Holder

2011-02-25T08:02:00.001-05:00

Creative cramped quarters calls for innovation!
I currently store a majority of my cosmetics and tools in my Ikea mini desk drawer but I often forget what's available due to time! 80% of the time, my morning is a rush so I grab whatever is 1. in my makeup bag in my purse or 2. whatever is on the top shelf.
To simplify matters, I put some of my used boxes to use and being the candle vandal that I am, I put my empty Tocca Tahiti Candle box to action for my MAC brushes, YSL Touche Eclat and various Chanel Glossimers and Dior Eyeliner.. basically everything that is too elongated to fit into my Vosges Chocolate library case (perfect Lipstick holders). Since the candle box is taller than a lippie case, its best used for stuff that is easy to see and grab a hold of early in the morning- plus DIY'ing with cute boxes adds a touch to the decor of the bedroom or bathroom!

What do you currently use to store your brushes, mascara, etc?

New York Fashion Week Giveaway Winner!

2011-02-22T16:40:00.000-05:00

Congrats to Deanne!

She's won the New York Fashion Week Contest!

Thank you so much for your comment and tweet entries.

There will be more contests to come- after all its London Fashion week!

Contest details will be coming soon...

NY IFB Conference at Milk Studios

2011-02-19T14:14:00.001-05:00

Professional Blogging Panel Karen with of DBA speaking.

Jamie of From Me To You

Business of Fashion interviewing Proenza Schouler

This past week I attended the Evolving Influence Independent Fashion Blogger Conference at Milk Studios.
The event was amazing, meeting all the NYC Fashion and beauty bloggers- new and established definitely was an enlightening experience.
Though this is a beauty blog, I have a heart for fashion and do incorporate posts when I can, but aah for the love of lipsticks and glosses! The launches for various MAC, Chanel, NARS and other cosmetics collections are as frequent and even on par with fashion collections.
I'm so excited to hear the panelists- Manrepeller, Faran from Nylon Mag, Wendy Lam of Nitrolicious - Key Note Speakers Proenza Schouler! but more importantly to meet other bloggers!
Here are some pics of the event, I hope you enjoy! oh and don't forget to enter the contest to win all the goodies received at IFB!

Nice to meet you Amanda, Jamie and Laura!

Win it!: New York Fashion Week Giveaway!

2011-02-18T15:05:00.001-05:00

How to Enter the NYFW Give away:

Leave a comment in this post or send an email to Lacroixthebeautyblog at gmail.com or tweet me @Lavande_G about your favorite NYFW designer!

One (1) lucky winner will be chosen at random from the entries/comments in this post to receive one (1) MAC Lipglass, one (1) MAC Haute and Naughty Mascara, one (1) Shopbop discount coupon for 20% off your purchase, one (1) Charlotte Ronson- Diet Pepsi Skinny Collaboration Tee-shirt and one (1) The Find.com Tote Bag.

Special Thanks to IFB, Milk Studios, MAC Cosmetics, The Find.com, Charlotte Ronson for Diet Pepsi and Shopbop.com

Giveaway Starts: Tuesday, February 15, 2011 – Now
Giveaway Ends: Sunday, February 20, 2011 – 11:59pm EST
Winner will be announced via email and here on Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Oh Boy! Chanel's Exclusive Valentine's Day Surprise

2011-02-16T05:57:00.000-05:00

New Rouge Coco Shine in Boy

Natural Light Rouge Coco Shine in Boy

Flash Swatch of Rouge Coco Shine in Boy

photo: Chanel.com

With the hectic schedule last week, I almost forgot about the sneak preview launch of the new Rouge Coco Shine in Boy until I went for brunch in Little Italy with Jess and stopped by Chanel Soho for some window-less fantasy shopping.
Upon stepping into the Soho boutique, I quickly backtracked to the email I received about the preview and to my giddy surprise was the Rouge Coco Shine in Boy ready for swatching and Monique, the house makeup artist was their to answer questions.
Though I received notification about the new slim ,glossy, younger version of Rouge Coco- I had my reservations. Reservation 1: I heart Glossimers, enjoy Rouge Coco in Paris and have a mild obsession with Genial Rouge Allure but feel like I'm comfortable with my current lippies and Reservation 2: Boy looks like it won't "mesh well" with my skintone. I immediately dismissed the color tone to be too light.
Lessons I learned from Rouge Coco Shine- never judge a lipstick by its cover.
Upon swatching on my hand at the boutique, the color held its own, a sheer rose with a touch of cool plum in its undertone with the subtle shimmer. The color is so impressive, you don't have to use a mirror to apply it! As far as longevity, my morning application at 7:30am lasted through my green tea and bagel breakfast and lunch at Subway. I had to re-apply around 12:30pm.
Overall, I can say that this is a great everyday lipcolor to have if you are going for a spring beauty staple that can withhold your morning meal, it deserves to be in your makeup bag!
The official Rouge Coco Shines launch next month, until then- catch them at the Chanel Boutiques or any counter that carries Chanel Beauty.

Fashion Post: Balenciaga Look

2011-02-14T13:10:00.000-05:00

photo: from me to you tumblr

photo: Levi's Shape What's to Come

photo: Style.com

On Thursday I attended the IFB's Blogger Conference at Milk Studios.
It was great being enriched by industry heros and asking Proenza Schouler a beauty question or two. Question 1: " Are you going to have another collaboration with a beauty brand?" Answer: " We'll have to see..." Question 2: " What is the fall 2011 look?" Answer: "Um...". Yeah, no clear answer, so we'll definitely keep you posted. I'm guessing an element that is bold and colorful.
There will be more pics posted throughout the week of the IFB Conference but wanted to share my ensemble for the day.
- Forever 21 black pleather jacket
- Balenciaga Resort 2010 dress
- Black H&M booties.

Special thanks to Jamie and Levi's for the photos!

Valentine's Day Jam: The Jets- Private Number

2011-02-14T09:50:00.000-05:00

This is seriously the JAM!
This takes me back to when my cousin had all of The Jets albums on her wall.

Happy Valentine's Day!

NARS 413 Bleecker Street Pure Matte Lipstick

2011-02-12T17:12:00.002-05:00

NARS Cosmetics just opened its first stand alone stone in Greenwich Village this week.
In honor of the brick and mortar shop comes an exclusive lipcolor- 413 Bleecker!
The muted brick red lipstick is matte in texture and is every bit as exciting as House of Style and Dee-lite (90's favorites!).
While perusing and purchasing in the new store- in walks Francois himself! This has been my second encounter but I was still gushing!
So if you happen to stop into NYC, make sure to check out this space! Classic films available for purchase, biographies on fashion favorites and NARS ' books.
The address:
413 Bleecker Street
Greenwich Village

REN Glycolatic Skin Renewal Peel Mask

2011-02-09T23:11:00.000-05:00

Trying to awaken and revive your skin when you have little to no sunlight during the week and the arctic blast of 20 degree wind at your face is an uphill battle due to the elements.
Luckly, I came across Ren's Glycolatic Skin Renewal Peel Mask just before I started to give up on this whole " spring is just around the corner" dream.
Truth told, this is the best smelling mask I have ever encountered! As soon as I twisted the cap and squeezed a dime-sized test of it, the smell was so fruity, spicy, familiar. I stopped and said to myself, " this isn't edible right?". Ren's mask smells like a mango tamarind lollipop!
When I applied the mask to my face, all I can smell is the tropical spicy that came from the peel and it was just what was needed.
Ren's Glycolatic Skin Mask is free of parabens, sulfates, petrochemicals and synthetics ( still wouldn't recommend eating). Despite it being free of all of the nasties, the mask will renew your complexion, reduce lines and improve skin-tone, firmness and radiance ( YES!).
I absolutely loved this product and would definitely recommend it for those who need a break from the winter chill. I also have to say that it did not disturb my oily/sensitive skin. The only puzzling thing about the product was that it is labeled "peel mask" though you need to wash it off after ten minutes of settling-in the skin. There should be more clarification around that.

disclaimer: product was purchased by me with the intent to review and use.

Coming Soon: Gucci Cosmetics

2011-02-06T16:29:00.000-05:00

WWD reports that Gucci will work with Proctor & Gamble Prestige on a line of Gucci Cosmetics.
Judging by the success of Burberry's cosmetics line and the increase in beauty sales for 2010 ( by 4% via WWD), the addition of cosmetics is a great move for Gucci. I wonder if Pat McGrath will take the line under her wing as the global creative-designer director of P&G?
Rumor also has it that Stella McCartney may be in talks to have a color cosmetic line in the near future too. Probably headed by YSL? That would be a another dream come true ( first dream is Christian Lacroix cosmetic collab). I loved Stella's skincare line and the RTW runway looks are always fresh clean and simple. So keeping my fingers crossed.
Now that I think of all these fashion houses churning out their own beauty lines. I remember back in college seeing Prada's lip tints in Allure and in Neiman Marcus. They really pioneered the trend as when you purchased a $40 box of 24 liptints, you received a headband as well. We all love a two-fer when it comes to our cosmetic purchases.

Beauty Ambassadors: Who represents you now?

2011-02-04T08:11:00.000-05:00

From the Supermodel representation of the 90’s to the vast variety of beauty ambassadors of today, what does your favorite beauty brand say about you?

After the announcement late last year of Taylor Swift joining CoverGirl’s 2011 roster, I started thinking about how Nicki Taylor and Tyra Banks represented the brand when I was a tween and how the beauty market is so far removed from the “ad slogan only Supermodel” (Easy, Breezy, Beautiful Cover Girl) to the beauty representative that has lyrics in her back pocket and a credible movie career (for some).

My research started with a few my favorite beauty ads from the 90’s and the models who represented them to the now beauty ambassadors who get you to buy that lipstick or fragrance. I took 8 beauty brands (4 mass and 4 luxury) and started looking into who represented the brand 20 years ago and who represents it now. Are you a “true-to-you” personality? Or are you one of the “ Glam Squad”? Let’s explore!

Brand: CoverGirl

90’s representation: Supermodels- Tyra Banks, Helena Christensen, Nicki Taylor, Katherine Heigl and Lana Oglvie. Singers- Brandy and Faith Hill

Current Beauty ambassadors: Singers- Rhianna, Taylor Swift; Personalities- Drew Barrymore, Ellen Degeneris, Queen Latifah

What it says about you: I’m wholesome, classic, “True-to-you” beauty. CG has done an excellent job in covering almost all age and shade range (don’t know how well they do with east and pacific asian clients). CG appeals to the: I’m 15, love lip stains, glosses and mascara – mom and dad is ok with this. The 50 year old who can comfortably and confidently say so (“you really think I look 40?”, reply-“ yes hot mama”). The “I’m looking for a great foundation or powder but don’t want to risk $20 + if I’m sorely disappointed”.

Strategy: The brand strategy is enviable to those who are trying to crack such a broad and direct market. Who can sell anti-aging and still appeal to the tween market with lipgloss? Only a company well-versed in diversity across all spectrums, that’s who.

Brand: L’Oreal Paris

90’s representation: International Supermodels- Laetitia Casta, Janine Green, Noemi Lenoir, Shalom Harlow, Milla Jovavich Actresses- Jessica Alba and Jennifer Lopez

Current Beauty ambassadors: Actresses (a few with two or more slashes in their careers) - Eva Longoria, Penelope Cruz, Kerry Washington, Beyoncé, Scarlet Johannson, Freida Pinto, Gwen Stefani

What it says about you: Fiercely Glamorous International Jet-setting Beauty. “I’m jet-setting to Cannes in the morn, see you at 7pm for dinner”. All L’Oreal’s beauty campaigns exude the 3 g’s, Glamour, Glitz and Gloss- plus it served the brand well as they are #1. Bonus: Color of Hope- no other mass brand has cosmetics that go to Breast Cancer research, that’s just food for thought.

Strategy: While the new Colour Riche campaign is brilliant. I have a soft spot for their seasonal campaigns that used to be in fashion mags. I loved the Pink Tranquilo campaign in the ‘90’s and the other lip, nail and blush campaigns that I used to run out to Rite Aid and buy. Now, I hardly see these in the store because they are tucked away, cluttered with designer impostor perfumes. Another note is the lack of deeper color ranges, sorry but Nut Brown is not rich enough. A few years ago HIP foundations were a brilliant concept, but now a mere blip on the cosmetic radar. But, who knows what the future will hold in regards to pigment and skin matching- they are #1, so beauty is their playground, right?

Brand: Maybelline

90’s representation: Supermodels- Christy Turlington, Tomiko and Josie Maran Actress-Sarah Michelle Gellar to name a few

Current Beauty ambassadors: Supermodels- Christy Turlington, Erin Wasson, Jessica White, Adriana Lima, Charlotte Kemp Muhl, Shu Pei

What it says about you: The Maybelline roster is a combination platter of Victoria’s Secret and Sports Illustrated, a true “ only for the sexy people” clause as they are all about lips and lashes…for now.

Strategy: Good, as Maybelline is the head sponsor of NYFW with ads all over the city and great beauty ambassador representation at Fashion’s Night Out. I can honestly say that they represent! Dream Matte Mouse range is great and I’m patiently awaiting for Fit Me to come to Duane Reade. As with L’Oreal- the seasonal campaign are a bit of a mess on shelves Maybelline does do a great job at advertising in magazines, albeit gossip rags, but hey, at least I can see new colors and figure out what one of the Jolie kids is up to all in the same 15 minutes.

Brand: Revlon

90’s representation: Supermodels- Cindy Crawford, Veronica Webb, among other Supers.

Current Beauty ambassadors: Actresses- Halle Berry, Jessica Biel, Jessica Alba, Eva Mendes, Kate Bosworth

What it says about you: In the 90’s the brand reflected beauty and power, today Revlon beauties are classic and sophisticated. You, your mother and grandmother can indulge in convo about Charlie and Fire and Ice.. or maybe you can just text each other about picking up items at the grocery store.

Ah memories! There was a time when I was in college where both my grandmother and I wore Vixen and the Colorstay lipstick to accompany. I thought it was cool! My granny isn’t boring, she is a sophisticate and classy and if Revlon can do that- more power to the brand!

Strategy: In my mind, I always thought it would be fab to see Cindy and Veronica represent the brand again for those of us nostalgic of the powerful early nineties and I’ve always thought that Revlon could do it! But until that happens, I do give them points for revamping past nail and lipcolor collections like Fire & Ice with Biel.

As far as their ambassadors go, I think they need to switch it up. With who? you may not ask, how about personalities like Dita Von Teese or singers like Jennifer Hudson.

Additionally, I’m curious to see what Gucci Westman has in-store for the brand since transitioning to mass from a luxury beauty brand.

Brand: Lancome

90’s representation: Supermodels- Isabella Rosellini

Current Beauty ambassadors: Models - Elletra Weidman, Julia Restoin-Roitfeld, Supermodels- Daria Werbowy, Arlenis Sosa ; Vlogger- Michelle Phan

What it says about you: You are an international “diamond in the rough”, whether it be by heredity, a discovery or YouTube. You channel the relating factor that you aren’t just a pretty face by popular comparison, in fact Werbowy designed a collection for Lancome that sold out immediately after its launch.

Strategy: The Pout –a- porter series was utterly brilliant. Teaming up with up and coming designers for exclusive lipstick caused a firestorm and introduced a waitlist for lipstick. Their strategy is great as far as marketing to a new generation after years of having Isabella Rossellini at the helm, though you do not want to deter the 40+ crowd either. Tough call.

A strength is having a vlogger, Michelle Phan ( ricebunny) is reeling it in with tips and tricks that get millions of hits and helps Lancome break the asian market. Not bad at all, other brands- take note.

Brand: Dior

90’s representation: Supermodels- Carmen Kass

Current Beauty ambassadors: Actresses- Monica Belluci, Charlize Theron, Sharon Stone and Natalie Portman

What it says about you: Sophisticated, intelligent, sexy. Every one of these ladies embodies Christian Dior ‘s sophisticated New Look. Dior also says that Diorshow is your #1 bare minimum look item to grab before heading out for the evening.

Strategy: DiorShow is a hands down all around fave from print to web, but what else can Dior do? And how can Dior tap into a “younger” market? The Diordiva program is great, but the perks are a bit unreachable for a 16 or 17-year-old high schooler to get a $50 eye palette by redeeming receipts for $200 worth of product. No bueno. Additionally, the promotional advertisements in magazines seem a bit “pushy”. Maybe you should go the blogger/vlogger route and find a sophisticated real lady to represent, or bring another actress on board- my suggestion, Zoe Saldana.

Brand: Chanel

90’s representation: Supermodel- Shalom Harlow

Current Beauty ambassadors: Supermodels- Monika Jac Jagaciak, Malgosia Bela; Actresses-Kiera Knightly, Vanessa Paradis; It-Girls- Jen Brill, Leigh Leizark, Vanessa Traina, Caroline Seiber, Poppy Delevinge

What it says about you: You are a classic who loves the surprising edge of unconventional color. You wait patiently for the next nail polish color confection regardless of the $25 price tag and look forward to seeing the Chanel embossed face powders and tweed print blushes.

Strategy: Lets start with the favorites- The in international city exclusive collections (Rodeo Drive , London, Tokyo and Soho) are a fan favorite success. The exclusives each season are worth the wait, especially the nail polishes ( or nail vernis) and certainly worth the price tag if you treasure shopping for beauty seasonally.

Vamp Nail polish! Did you know that Vamp has its own Wikipedia page?

Now for the weaknesses- the closing of the only free-standing beauty boutique in Asia is a set-back if you want to establish yourself above the rest in the East.

Another under-accomplishment are the It Girl ambassadors, I don’t know what they do other than go to shows. That’s great and all but, do they sell Chanel beauty products? No. The products are the ambassadors, with the exception of Vanessa Paradis.

Brand: Estee Lauder

90’s representation: Supermodels and Actresses- Carolyn Murphy, Elizabeth Hurley

Current Beauty ambassadors: Supermodels, Actresses and Moguls- Gwenyth Paltrow, Liya Kebede, Hilary Rhoda, Joan Small, Erin Lauder

What it says about you: Heritage and loyalty. Both you and your mother can appreciate the skincare and makeup.

Strategy: The Tom Ford’s collections were a stellar success and I commend the brand for their generational and global diversity. The limited edition compact encasings are fun and memorable. But, I do firmly believe that Estee Lauder’s skincare outshines them all and keeps them on top, but does the skincare appeal to the youth as much as it appears to the boomers?

There you have it for 2011’s beauty brands and their ambassadors. We will be on the look-out for new developments and movements in representation.

So who do you represent?

photos:visitforinfo.com,nitrolicious.com,beautyestdiversity.com,portfoli.com,faboverforty.com,beautyisdiversity.com

josibi.com,mimifroufrou.com,gorgeousblackwomen.com,sexyfashiongirl.blogspot.com

YSL Pink Celebration- Spring 2011

2011-02-01T17:55:00.000-05:00

Pink reigns supreme at YSL beaute with soft palette inspirations for Spring 2011.
The look is now available on the newly revamped ysl.com and includes a Celebration palette complexion highlighter for the eyes, lips and cheeks and the much awaited creme blushes in five bright poppy spring colors to compliment the popular Rouge Pur Shines.

The full collection is expected to be in counters mid February.

MAC Soho Wonderwoman Pop-up shop

2011-01-29T19:39:00.003-05:00

Just when I thought that nothing great can come of a snowy winter's day drudging along Soho comes MAC's Wonderwoman pop-up shop!
The newly renovated MAC Soho location is currently home of the new Wonderwoman collection as well as the regular line's favorites. Plus this is the only location to have the full Wonderwoman collection about 2 weeks from the official launch on February 10th.
I did manage to pick up the new giant sized lipglass in Wonderwoman, a sheer apple red with shimmer and the re-packaged Russian Red lipstick.
This new collection comes with an increase in pricing as well. According to my receipt the lipglass is $20 and dually noted as " large", the size is .37 oz compared to the standard .17 oz. The lipstick was $15.50 and I'm sure that the special packaging also attributes to the price increase as well.

The unveiling is coming up next week where I will have full collection coverage, at the Soho pop-up I found that not all of the collection was in its encasing. Until then, enjoy the photos!

disclaimer: all products photographed were purchased by me