Fashion Post: Comme des Garcons Play x Converse

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

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!

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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?

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

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.