beauty in real life...: 8/1/08

Sunday, August 31, 2008

prostate cancer awareness with anthony logistics for men

We don't know about the men in your lives, but we have the hardest time getting our hubbies to go to the doctor's office for a sore throat, much less for a cancer screening.

But all men need to be smart and have Prostate Cancer Screenings. Some guidelines recommend that those with a higher risk get tested as early as 40!

Tony Sosnick, the founder of Anthony Logistics, has made Prostate Cancer Awareness his cause since launching the brand in 2000, and has become a vocal advocate, encouraging the men that he meets giving skincare consultations all over the country to get PSA tests.

Anthony Logistics for Men is excited to introduce a limited edition super-sized (32 oz) Hair and Body Cleansing Gel in a brand-new Blue Chamomile blend created to support the fight against Prostate Cancer.

Not sure how the men in your life roll, but any one product that does the job of three always gets our guys smiling.

The Hair and Body Cleansing Gel in Blue Chamomile is a new addition to the Anthony Logistics line with key ingredients and benefits including:

Wheat Protein -Which tightens and moisturizes to protect skin from environmental damages

Aloe Vera - Soothes and calms in order to restore the natural pH level of the skin

Sea Kelp – Nourishes dry spots to promote soft hair and skin

100% of the proceeds from the sale of this product will be donated to the Aureon Protocol Study at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City for its Prostate Cancer research program.

That's amazing.

The 32 oz pump is adorned with the fight against Prostate Cancer’s Blue Ribbon, further highlighting Anthony Logistics for Men’s support and involvement with Prostate Cancer Research.

Also to support the ongoing fight against prostate cancer, Anthony Logistics will sell blue prostate cancer awareness bracelets on anthony.com for $5, or you can receive one as a gift with purchase at Nordstrom locations.

For the month of September, 10% of sales of all blue products in the line (Algae Facial Cleanser, Sea Salt Body Scrub, Razor Burn Repair, Electric Pre Shave Solution, Vitamin C Serum, Vitamin A Treatment, Continuous Moisture Eye Cream and the Body Essentials Energy Shave Cream, Shower Gel, Body Bar and Body Spray) go to the cause.

Price: $32.00, Available September 1^st at Nordstrom, Nordstrom.com, bluemercury stores and anthony.com.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photos courtesy of anthony logistics for men

we're going to fashion week and other news

Hells to the yeah...we're going to Fashion Week!

Well...more like Fashion Weekend for us...we'll be leaving Friday afternoon and coming back Sunday night.

But we're going!

As members of Total Beauty, we get to experience all of the hub-bub that goes on and report it back to our amazing readers.

Yay!

We'll be bringing our cameras to capture all of the action.

Christine and I are going to drive up together on Friday, stay at my cousin's house in NJ , and take the Transit Train into NYC each day.

So...road trip! I'm getting the CD's ready as we speak!

We're also trying to figure out what to wear. At this point, I'm considering bringing the caftan back a la Mrs. Roper...I mean really...how the heck am I going to compete with the thin-ness that will be going on there?

In other news, we had a L'Oreal Party yesterday!

Both Christine and I were giving the opportunity (along with other fabulous blogs) to host a hair coloring party sponsored by L'Oreal, featuring their new and improved Feria hair color.

We hosted a party for two lovely ladies...Stayce and Fintress...who we are now so bff with.

And their hair turned out to dye for gorgeous.

Will be giving you the full details later in the week, along with photos!

Stay tuned!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

sera giveaway

Don't forget to enter this!

Last week I reviewed Sera's Eye Wrinkle Serum and this week we are happy to announce that we have a giveaway with Sera!

One lucky winner will win.....the entire line!!! All 5 products for a $200 value.

All you have to do is send us an email to beautyinreallifecontests@gmail.com with "Sera Giveaway" in the subject line. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address.

We will randomly select one winner September 2nd at 11pm est. The winner will be announced on Wednesday the 3rd!

Alright, just to clarify...One entry per person, duplicate entries will not increase your odds of winning. For this giveaway, only US residents may enter. You have from now until September 2nd at 11:00 PM EST to enter!

For more information on Sera, check out there website at rollawaywrinkles.com.

Good luck!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

*Please Read This: In entering this contest you are giving us permission to forward your name and mailing address to representatives for Sera for fulfillment and mailing of contest prize(s). If you fail to include that information we will disqualify your entry. One winner, chosen at random, will receive the prize mentioned. Duplicate entries will not improve your chances of winning. Giveaway sponsored by Sera. Some restrictions may apply. Open only to US residents only...sorry. Entries will be accepted through 11:00 pm on Tuesday, September 2nd, 2008.

dazzle dry giveaway

Don't forget to enter!!!

We've got another one for you.

This time 5 people will each win a Dazzle Dry Nail System Retail Kit ($54 each).

The Kit consists of one 1oz. Nail Prep and one 0.5oz. Base Coat for natural nails. You will also receive one 0.5oz. Dazzle Dry quick drying Top Coat and three 0.5oz. Nail Lacquers .

Use the Dazzle Dry Nail System Retail Kit, for a quick drying manicure and/or pedicure in the luxury of your own home. All Dazzle Dry Nail Polishes are fast drying, high shine and are nitrocellulose free, toluene free, formaldehyde free, phthalate free, plus UV protection for long lasting color.

All you have to do is send us an email to beautyinreallifecontests@gmail.com with "Dazzle Dry Giveaway" in the subject line. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address.

We will randomly select five winners September 2nd at 11pm est. The winners will be announced on Wednesday the 3rd!

Alright, just to clarify...One entry per person, duplicate entries will not increase your odds of winning. For this giveaway, only US residents may enter. You have from now until September 2nd at 11:00 PM EST to enter!

For more information on Dazzle Dry, check out there website at dazzledry.com.

Good luck!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

*Please Read This: In entering this contest you are giving us permission to forward your name and mailing address to representatives for Dazzle Dry for fulfillment and mailing of contest prize(s). If you fail to include that information we will disqualify your entry. Five winners, chosen at random, will receive the prize mentioned. Duplicate entries will not improve your chances of winning. Giveaway sponsored by Dazzle Dry. Some restrictions may apply. Open only to US residents only...sorry. Entries will be accepted through 11:00 pm on Tuesday, September 2nd, 2008.

Saturday, August 30, 2008

our apologies

Please accept our apologies over the confusion with the Vogue and Redken giveaway. We just realized that there was an error in the date of when the deadline was for you to enter...it said September 28th, 2008 with winners to be announced September 29th.

Unfortunately that was a major typo that somehow went completely unnoticed by Christine and myself....and it will not happen again.

We have already gone ahead and selected the 10 winners, as per our original agreement with Vogue and Redken, and those winners will be receiving their prizes once V and R send them out.

We will give those winners more time to send in their addresses as needed.

As for the others who were confused by the giveaway...please understand that it was a mistake and we will do our best to ensure that it does not happen again. We truly love and appreciate all of our readers and would never do anything intentionally to ruin the love that you always show us.

Honestly.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

kate somerville oil free moisturizer

New from Kate Somerville is her Oil Free Moisturizer ($65).

Considering many of her other products (um...hello...ExfoliKate?) are loved by celebs and beauty editors alike...this stuff has to be as good.

Made for skins that are sensitive, oily, or combination, it also helps to fight the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

It contains oil absorbing ingredients that help to reflect light and leave skin looking radiant.

Fabulous.

We were actually fortunate enough to get our hands on a sample and will be reviewing soon.

If you can't wait, head on over to katesomerville.com.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of kate somerville

lippmann collection fall colors...the review

So yesterday I decided to go ahead and paint my nails with the new Fall colors from the Lippmann Collection and take pictures so you could see what the colors look like. I waited until little MJ was taking his afternoon nap, but then I decided I better go check my email first.

Apparently, I took a little too long checking the email because by the time I made it back upstairs to the table and opened the first bottle of nail polish....who do think was standing at the top of stairs staring at me? Little MJ.

Normally, he let's me get a quick mani in, but for some reason he was feeling cuddly and had to sit in my lap the whole time and play with everything. Also, my husband came home shortly after MJ got up. So, something that should have been quick and done in about 15 minutes, ended up taking a little over 2 hours.

As for the nail polish, there are the 4 colors for Fall and I am actually liking all 4. I would have never ever considered wearing black nail polish before, a dark purple or blue is about as far as I'm willing to venture. After I put Fade to Black on, it looked quite perfect for Fall and Winter. I would recommend having shorter nails for this color and the purple (Pump Up the Jam). Speaking of the purple, I had to take a couple different pictures - it's different in every kind of light. It looked really dark - almost black in one and then purple in another. Stop and Stare (red) is a brighter red, it reminds me of a retro color and is very fun. Rhapsody in White is, well, white and has some shimmer to it, so it doesn't look like you took a bottle of white-out to your nails (...you know you've tried that before).

So, here are the pictures (all of these are with 2 coats and no top coat)....
Obviously these 2 are the Rhapsody in White (white) and Stop and Stare (red)

This is the Pump Up the Jam (purple). The picture on the left is regular light and the one on the right is with flash and you can see that it is actually purple in that one.

This is Fade to Black (black). Again, the one on the left is regular light, the one on the right is with flash.

The nail polish does last a while and doesn't seem to chip very easily. What I was most surprised was how easy the nail polish came off when I used the remover. I was not worried about the white, but the red, purple and black? I thought for sure you would be seeing hints of those colors around, in and under my nails. But every color came off great, you can't even tell that I had any nail polish on at all. I also like how shiny they are without any top coat, normally I do put a top coat on, but I wanted to see how they were all by themselves.

Lippmann Collection is available at Barney's New York, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Bath and Body Works Flagships and online at lippmanncollection.com for $15 a bottle.

Christine
photos courtesy of me =0)
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

weekend reads...from the beauty blog network

Now, go get another cup of coffee and check out what's going on with some of our friends over at the Beauty Blog Network...

In honor of the newest limited edition collection from MAC Cosmetics, Cult of Cherry; Roselyn from Makeup Makes Me Happy does a gorgeous makeup tutorial, showing you how to achieve a fabulous look for this upcoming Fall season!.

Beauty Anonymous reviews YSL's fall eye shadow palette.

Lilan of The Daily Cookie shows you how easy it is to use Anastasia's Brow Pen to tint your eyebrows with a fun video how-to!

The Muse from Musings of a Muse shows you three different looks you can create using Too Faced Smoky Eye Palette! She also reviews the Too Faced Mirror Mirror Gloss!!

A Touch of Blusher looks at Paul & Joe's fall 2008 base makeup collection

Looking for a lipgloss that will stay put and last a long time? Then check out The Makeup Divas review on the Mac Lustre Twins.

Need smoother legs longer? Cybelesays has found one that keeps legs smooth and totally moisturized.

15 Minute Beauty Fanatic has found natural, medium coverage foundation, from the drugstore!

Beauty Blogging Junkie has partnered with Three Custom Color to provide 25 readers with TCC's new Watercolours for Cheeks in Wallflower, a dewy beige. Click here for more info on how to enter.

If you're a Bobbi Brown makeup fan (and who isn't?) Beauty411 has the latest on new Bobbi Brown palettes!

Rouge Deluxe offers a sneak peek at Lancome Holiday'08!

Beauty Junkie in SF recommends going nude with NARS Striptease lip gloss. It's HOT!

Beauty Banter tests the Worlds first organic skincare range... and finds the most AMAZING moisturizer!

Elke shares a great tip on how to mistake fix your makeup.

Product Girl shows you how to make your own lipstick palette and it's easy as pie!

Kyle at , Face Candy, shows you how she is using Pashmina shawls to brighten complexions at her wedding.

LashBlast had better watch her back. There's a new voluptuous lash in town, and she's wearing Exceptionnel de Chanel Intense Volume and Curl Mascara. The creamy formula and six-sided brush took Spoiled Pretty's lashes up, up and away!

makeup loves me wants to give you one of fall's hottest mascaras. click here to learn how you can win your own spinlash.

Have a wonderful Labor Day weekend!

with love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

weekend reads....from total beauty

Good morning! Go get your coffee and come back and have a lazy Saturday morning - you can afford to, it's a 3-day weekend! Check out what has been going on in the world of Total Beauty....

In honor of the newest limited edition collection from MAC Cosmetics, Cult of Cherry; Roselyn from Makeup Makes Me Happy does a gorgeous makeup tutorial, showing you how to achieve a fabulous look for this upcoming Fall season!.

Beauty Anonymous reviews YSL's fall eye shadow palette.

Alison of the The Advice Sisters Guide to Life, Success & Happiness Blog thinks that Sue Devitt's Bermuda Triangle is a Great Way to Banish Wrinkles!

Viva Woman discovers that baking soda really whitens her teeth!

Looking for a lipgloss that will stay put and last a long time? Then check out The Makeup Divas review on the Mac Lustre Twins.

Fabulous Over Forty discusses all week about her experience at the L'Oreal Color Space at the MN State Fair.

Monique at Beauty Girl Musings is surprised by a new fall lip color. Find out which one!

What are Jamie's 3 must-haves? Find out at Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog.

Crave for beautifully rejuvenated skin with absolutely no cost at all? Find out at Beauty Tyrant, she has whipped up askin rejuvenating peach facial!. You'll love your skin even more now.

Beauty Blogging Junkie has partnered with Three Custom Color to provide 25 readers with TCC's new Watercolours for Cheeks in Wallflower, a dewy beige. Click here for more info on how to enter.

If you're a Bobbi Brown makeup fan (and who isn't?) Beauty411 has the latest on new Bobbi Brown palettes!

MissWhoever-You-Are has found out how you can get a free tote YSL tote during Fashion Week. No Joke!

Wondering about Fall's Makeup Trends? Learn how apply a Pretty Power Pout like the pros on A Mom in Red High Heels.

Thought hair mousse was just an 80's trend? Think again. Daily Dose of Coffee tries out one of the most interesting hair mousses ever: Sebastian Whipped Creme.

Product Girl shows you how to make your own lipstick palette and it's easy as pie!

Chocolate lipliner? Sounds good, looks great! See it at Glossypink!

The Beauty Alchemist hits drugstore paydirt with Jergens Renew Lotion.

LashBlast had better watch her back. There's a new voluptuous lash in town, and she's wearing Exceptionnel de Chanel Intense Volume and Curl Mascara. The creamy formula and six-sided brush took Spoiled Pretty's lashes up, up and away!

Butterfly Diary reviews the luxurious collection by Sultana de Saba , whose Body Karite Butter and Honey Mask will make Cleopatra wish she had been reborn. Check it out!

with love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

Friday, August 29, 2008

cool tees from bionic beauty

Our fabulous pal Jami over at Bionic Beauty is launching a line of cute tees and other divine goodies!

Tell us that isn't the coolest thing ever...we are so loving the pink.

Head on over right this second to find out how you can purchase one!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

wei east golden root renewal multi-tasking day cream spf 15

I never step out of the house without a moisturizer.

Specificaly one that contains at least an SPF 15.

If I'm going to be outside for longer periods of time, I'll use sunscreen...but, for running errands, it's moisturizer with SPF.

I am convinced that that is the reason why I'm 37 years old...that's right...I said it...37 years old and I am told that I look younger than my years.

Yes, no doubt that genetics and other healthy factors play a part...but you also need to have a good skincare routine.

Mine is always, always use a great moisturizer.

One I'm finding fabulous for my combination skin is Wei East Golden Root Renewal Multi-Tasking Day Cream SPF 15 ($44).

It's very light and hydrates like crazy. It makes my skin feel soft and has actually made it look more radiant and even-toned.

Using Golden Root, a red flowering herb known for it's ability to help fight the signs of aging...it also helps to renew and revitalize the skin.

Now that's what I'm talking about.

Try weieast.com for more info or to purchase.

Jennifer
photo courtesy of wei east

something we're loving...l'oreal bare naturale mascara

We both cannot get enough of this mascara.

Apparently that goes for other favorite bloggers of ours as well.

L'Oreal Bare Naturale Mascara ($10) is a fabulous way to lengthen, define, and enhance your lashes.

It does so without making your lashes feel stiff and gross....that's due to the addition of minerals, aloe, and vitamin E.

Love that.

And we both totally adore the way that it doesn't smudge at the end of the day...it actually lasts.

Love that more.

It glides on smooth without clumping and works with my contact lens wearing eyes wonderfully.

Perfect.

Find yours at Target, or any other mass market retailers nationwide.

Jennifer
photo courtesy of l'oreal

real life beauty tips...rembrandt whitening strips

These are perfect for back to school and a great way to get your smile in shape for all of the attention grabbing lippies you know you're loving.

Being my two front teeth have veneers...long story there...and I didn't think that they would have taken to the strips...I passed them on to my sister, who had been complaining about her teeth's appearance.

Her verdict? She loved them.

She found them easy to use and she got results that totally impressed her.

Her teeth weren't Ross Geller white at the end, but she did notice a difference...about a shade or two lighter.

I think that she probably would have had better results had she used the strips consecutively, as the directions say to use them once a day for five days.

But you know...sisters.

What's great about them is that they're a moldable plastic that conforms to your teeth through Formfit™ technology.

Making for a great fit.

She did notice that she had to work a little bit to get them off, she noticed that using water during this process helped a bit.

Rembrandt Whitening Strips ($25) can be found at several mass market retailers in their totally divine new packaging by the way.

Jennifer
photo courtesy of rembrandt

Thursday, August 28, 2008

elemis, nivea and the body deli.....

What do these 3 brands have in common?

The have totally saved my skin this summer and I can't wait to use them all this winter.

The beginning of the summer I was doing really well with a regular daily body lotion. And then I started going to the pool a few days a week in severely chlorinated water, add in a few sunburns and a week in salt water and, well, my skin was not happy with me in the slightest. That's when I decided I needed to call in for reinforcements and started using body cremes daily and my skin is back to loving me and it's environment.

The first of the three, is the least expensive at $6.99 a jar (6.8 oz.). Nivea Natural Tone Face and Body Creme with an SPF 4. Right off the bat I like the fact that it contains an SPF. This one helps fight skin discolorations caused by aging, dryness and too much sun. It helps even out what discolorations that you may already have and helps prevent discolorations from happening. It is super light, but moisturises very well. And the scent is very light, which I like since I have been slathering this stuff on and still can wear perfume.

The next one on my list is The Body Deli Botanical Body Souffle at $26 a jar (8 oz.), this is the medium priced creme, but I love this stuff. There are 12 different scents available and I bet they all smell awesome. I have Thai Lemongrass and when I use it the whole bathroom smells like lemons. My husband even commented on the scent. This body souffle totally saved me from looking like a snake after our trip last month. I'll just throw this out there, the first day of the cruise when we were at sea all day and I choose to lay by the pool on the top, top, top deck....without sunscreen on my legs for hours (for some reason I put sunscreen everywhere, but the tops of my thighs - the drink of the day must have gone to my head already)....after 8 days of my poor legs in the sun there was some major peeling going on by the time we got back home....until I used this on them. It stopped the peeling immediately and I didn't feel like I needed to reapply every 3 seconds either. The Body Deli line of products are all made with fresh plants instead of chemicals and are certified organic; the body cream is blended with the freshest ingredients available, guaranteeing the potency and bio-availability of the essential nutrients which helps keep your skin soft, supple and youthful. Whatever it has in it - I am loving it.

The third and definitely the priciest of the group, is Elemis Pro-Collagen Radiantly Smooth Body Cream, at $162 a jar (6.8 oz.). When I need a ton of moisturizing I use the Body Deli Souffle, but when it's a regular kind of day I use this. It is just the right level of moisture and leaves a light shimmer - nothing crazy, it's just barely noticeable but it's pretty. Elemis Body Creme helps to smooth out crepey skin texture, leaving the body feeling deeply hydrated with an illuminating youthful radiance. A network of Proteins, plus Micro-Lattice Technology ensures a mesh-like support system is provided over sagging skin whilst helping to restore cell cohesion. The lipidic base, which produces the lattice-effect micro-tension, offers ‘movement with tension’ to the skin so the overall result is just like wearing a pair of tights: you can distinctly feel the body’s improved contour. I have only used this on my arms and legs but it sounds like I need to add my belly to the list and see if it feels like I'm wearing a pair of tights. I hadn't really paid attention in the past. I almost forgot until I added the picture - it comes in the prettiest leather box and it's even prettier inside - it looks great on my shelf in the bathroom but I could even have it out on my dresser.

To purchase any or all of these body cremes: for Nivea check out nivea.com or pretty much any drugstore; for The Body Deli, visit thebodydeli.com and for Elemis, click on over to elemis.com.

Happy Moisturizing!

Christine

photo of nivea courtesy of drugstore.com
photo of body souffle courtesy of thebodydeli.com
photo of elemis body cream courtesy of elemis.com
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

fabulous giveaway from vogue and redken for our readers!

Because we love you guys and because Vogue and Redken kick serious butt, ten of our readers have the opportunity to win a Redken Full Frame 07 Protective Volumizing Mousse!

Why are they doing this?

Well...basically to celebrate Redken's new episodes of Behind the Lens on Vogue.TV.

Behind the Lens: The Look of Fall 2008 is a four-part series featuring one designer in each of the world’s fashion capitals - New York, London, Paris, and Milan.

The series offers an insider’s view into the creative collaborations behind preparing a runway show, highlighting the impact major designers will have on the season’s fashion and beauty trends.

This contest is over.

We are so sorry for the confusion...this is totally our fault as we had erroneously put a different date here than in the contest disclaimer at the end.

As per our original agreement with Redken and Vogue we chose the winners on August 28th, not September 28th...so the winners have already been announced.

Please accept our apologies for the craziness and the mistake...which both of us literally just realized. How that got by us is a complete mystery.

Again, we are so sorry and hope you understand that we did not do this intentionally.

Please come back on Wednesday, when we will be running another giveaway...minus the typos!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

*Please Read This: In entering this contest you are giving us permission to forward your name and mailing address to representatives for Redken and Vogue for fulfillment and mailing of contest prize(s). If you fail to include that information within 24 hours of us announcing your name, we will disqualify your entry. Ten winners, chosen at random, will receive the prize mentioned. Duplicate entries will not improve your chances of winning. Giveaway sponsored by Redken and Vogue. Some restrictions may apply. Open only to US residents only. Entries will be accepted through 11:00 pm on Thursday, August 28th, 2008.

real life beauty tips...back to school beauty

September will be here soon, bringing fall and the cooler weather.

Now's the time to figure out what to store at the back of your beauty closet.

While we love a great self-tanner here at Beauty in Real Life, let's be realistic....unless you actually live in a location that's hot and sunny 365...let it go.

There is nothing wrong with a paler complexion, it actually goes along fabulously with the great colors on tap for fall (think berries, deep purples, etc).

If you can't bear to give up your self-tanner, at least switch to one that's a lighter shade.

One that will give your skin just a hint of color.

Better yet, choose one that let's you adjust that for yourself...like Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer ($7).

It's perfect because it moisturizes, gives you a hint of color, and you can stop before you hit lady-with-the-weird-tan-in-the-winter-even-though-she's-never-been-on-vacay stage.

Come on, you know who we're talking about.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of drugstore.com
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

karin herzog camomille face cream

Available this fall in select retail and spa locations is Karin Herzog Camomille Face Cream ($50).

Using 1% pure oxygen, soothing chamomile, St. John's Wort, and other conditioning goodies to revitalize, hydrate, calm, and tone your delicate skin.

Perfect for the cooler and drier months ahead.

Gotta think ahead...right?

The great thing is, that women or men can use this as it's geared for all skin types...especially those with acne and men with razor burn.

We haven't had the chance to try this yet, but when we do you guys will be the first to know about it!

Coming soon to karinherzogus.com, luckyscent.com, and select salons, spas, retailers, dermatologists and plastic surgeons nationwide.

With love (always),

Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of karin herzog

proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

sanctuary spa winners!

Yet more winners that forgetful old me forgot to post!

I am truly the worst!

Without further ado, here's the three lucky readers who won!

Sylvia P.
Tracey B.

Stephanie C.

Congrats to you three. Your prize should be sent out soon!

With love (always),

Jennifer and Christine

winners for the luzern labs giveaway

I am a horrible person. I've been completely swamped today and totally forgot to post the winners earlier today!

So sorry!

Here are the winners of the Luzern Labs giveaway...

Andrea C.
Gwen R.
Judy B.

Congratulations and your prize should be on the way soon!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

perfect for fall - np set cruise blush by napolean perdis

Okay...so fall is right around the corner and I am way excited.

I adore everything about fall, from the colors of the leaves to the chill in the air....to the fact that Little L is beginning pre-school...actually called Toddler Adventure...for two days a week this September.

Is it wrong to be excited, yet sad at the same time?

I'll have two and a half hours a day to myself, for two whole days during the week.

Can you say sweet?

That means I can get a lot of stuff done around here and then have time for Little L and Big L when they get home.

Totally win-win here.

Anyway...back to the beauty...I'm also loving the offerings on tap at Target.

Yes...that's right...I said Target.

They've recently started selling the new line made exclusively for Target by Napoleon Perdis. His new line is called NP Set and it's to die for in its awesomeness.

First off...love the minimalistic white packaging with black lettering.

Secondly...love the fact that you can pick these up while shopping for a coffee maker or something like that. One stop shopping.

I'm really loving this NP Set Cruise Blush in Arctic ($18). It's a fabulous color on and looks gorgeous with my kinda lightish medium complexion.

It's a brownish hue that actually reads believable-nude-blush on my skin. Love that.

As with any cream blush, you definitely get a beautiful natural glow-y color going on there and it lasts pretty well. It's also small enough so that you can throw it into your bag and reapply as needed.

It's now available at target.com and select Target stores right now.

Jennifer
photo courtesy of target.com
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

beauty buys under $10 - avon advance techniques purifying treatment shampoo

Totally surprised myself, when I found out that I actually liked this shampoo.

Avon's Advance Techniques Purifying Treatment Shampoo ($3.50) is a fabulous way to remove product build up from your hair.

Nine times out of ten, if your hair is dull looking, it's not the hair itself...it's the major buildup of products causing it.

Use this once a week and you've got cleaner hair minus the yucky gunk.

I used this along with my regular conditioner...my Kerastase this time...and I loved how it made my hair feel de-gunkified.

It contains menthol which has that good morning kind of wake up scent and feels tingly on the scalp.

I love a tingly scalp.

Plus my hair did not feel dry afterwards...something I feared...and the color even seemed a little more vibrant.

So kudos to Avon on that.

It's safe for all types of hair, even color-treated and they say that you could use it more than once a week if needed....although...I would probably only use this once a week.

Try avon.com for more info and to find out how to purchase.

Jennifer
photo courtesy of avon.com

5 minutes, 5 questions...with meghan cleary - america's shoe expert

We had the insane opportunity to interview Meghan Cleary...otherwise known as Miss Meghan, America’s Shoe Expert, she dishes on not only the latest trends and the hottest new designers, but on how shoes make a person feel and the impact they have on confidence, mood and body.

You've probably seen one or more of her many appearances on the Today Show, The Tyra Banks Show, Isaac Mizrahi's show, Extra!, the CBS Early Show, or the Rachel Ray show.

Plus she written a book and has also written for other publications.

So...let's just say that she knows her stuff.

Like a lot.

Here are our five questions and her five answers...

What styles are going to be hot this Fall?

Color is very strong in all styles from sneakers, to ballet flats to sky-high platform pumps. The newest rage that is sweeping London is what's called the 'fetish pump" -- six and seven inch towering platform stilettos. Christian Louboutin was an innovator in this area and continues to be encouraging women to go higher and higher!

What one style shoe should every woman have in their closet and why?

A cute pair of ankle boots, without a doubt. You can easily go from day to evening with a pair of flat heeled, ruched ankle boots in a deep green, charcoal or midnight suede. Great for running errands, but still fashion forward. Plus, they’re equally cute with skinny jeans or thick tights and a denim mini.

What's a great shoe that's chic, inexpensive, and great for running around in?

Just one? Steve Madden, Eighty-Twenty and Frye have some great shoes that are cute and versatile. Nine West, Naturalizer and Clarks also have some fashion forward styles that will not break the bank!

What are your three favorite beauty products?

· Burt's Bees lip Balm
· Fresh Post-Flight Serum with Green Coffee
· Nars Orgasm Blush

What's the best piece of beauty or fashion advice that you've ever received?

Always take care of your feet -- my grandma used to tell me that when I was little. She always used foot creams and babied her feet and it really paid off when she was older. I do the Dr Scholl’s for Her Pumice Foot Scrub and slather on the Dr Scholl’s For Her Foot Softening Balm before I go to bed. Grandma was right!!

Thanks to Meghan for taking the time to do this and to Dr. Scholl's for giving us the opportunity. If you want to learn more about Meghan, head on over to her website missmeghan.com.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of missmeghan.com
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

tiny tillia bath and body products for kids

Seeing as how both Jenn and I have sons who will be 3 in a couple of months, we are learning very quickly just how dirty boys can be. See a hill, who wouldn't slide down it on their knees? See a big patch of dirt, shovel or not, let's go digging (patch of dirt would also be known as my flower garden in the back yard).

I have never used so much stain remover in my life and he's not even 3 yet. As for baths, they seem to be happening more and more often. We have a schedule but MJ seems to require them a little bit more frequently.

Enter Tiny Tillia, their line of bath products for kids is adorable and smells awesome. We have both products in both pictures. The one above on the right is the Mini Bath Gel set ($12 for all 4). Each mini gel pack is 2 ounces of bubble bath. We have had 3 baths so far with one pack. A little squeeze produces a ton of bubbles. And the bath mitt on the right is too cute and only $6 and is 100% cotton which is important since MJ has some sensitive skin. He plays with it more outside of the bathroom than in the tub but it's too cute and there are 4 different animals to choose from. The most expensive item is under $40 and is a gift basket filled with their products. So, this line of bath goodies is totally reasonable.

If you need some bath goodies for your little one or as a gift definitely check this site out, shoptillia.com.

Christine
photos courtesy of shoptillia.com
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

Rahua® Shampoo and Rahua® Conditioner

When I first saw the Rahua Shampoo and Rahua Conditioner for color-treated and delicate hair, I wasn't very excited to try it out. The shampoo is the color of honey and the conditioner is mighty thick. I thought...this should be interesting and make one unique hair day.

So, I gave it a whirl. When I say the conditioner is thick - paste would be an understatement. Given how thick it was, I went lightly with it. About half way through the day I noticed my hair still had a considerable amount of volume and it was really soft...couldn't stop touching it soft. The thickness of the conditioner wasn't a factor at all. I did notice that I tended to use more of the shampoo than I probably needed to. I like a good lather it makes me think things are happening. I had to use a good amount to achieve my comfort level of suds. Other than that, this is a great shampoo and conditioner. And now that I am running out of the shampoo I am a little sad. Plus, knowing that is has products from the Amazon, I feel a little exotic using it.

Both are made with rain forest grown symbiotic™ ingredients, this rich and luxurious organic collection pays tribute and respect to the beautiful women of the Amazon Rainforest. A truly natural hair care collection that is harvested in the wild, Amazon Beauty delivers ancient secrets of the amazing women who have inspired and enlightened history with their intelligence, power and strength. These ingredients have been created and used by Amazon native tribal women for thousands of years.

Key ingredients in Amazon Beauty's hair care include Rahua Elixir which instantly repairs damaged hair and speeds hair growth and Palo Santo (Bursera graveolens), a centuries old calming ingredient from aged "holy wood" that imparts an amazingly beautiful aroma and is traditionally used in Shaman ceremonies.

The shampoo has a suggested retail price of $32.00 for 8.3 ounces and the conditioner retails for $34.00 at Cocoon Hair Studio (in NY) and www.amazonbeautysecret.com.

Some exciting news from Amazon Beauty™ is that this month they launched their website, AMAZONBEAUTYSECRET.COM, and to celebrate they are offering up the opportunity to go for a week to Ecuador's Luna Runtun Adventure Spa. Where do I sign up?! The contest is going on for 6 months and then they will announce the lucky winners! Visit their website for more information and to enter the contest.

Christine
photo courtesy of amazonbeautysecret.com
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

cool idea...labelwatch.com

This is a definitely a site worth bookmarking.

It's called Labelwatch.com and it's truly brilliant...one of those why didn't I think of it kind of ideas.

Labelwatch.com takes over 25,000 food products currently in the grocery store and breaks down all the ingredients piece by piece, defining what all the additives and preservatives mean. The site tells you what is beneficial for your body, what is cautionary and what you should absolutely not put into your body! It lets you compare similar products, tells you what is kosher (if that is a concern to you) and it even has a printable grocery list for you to take to the market!

See what we mean? Brilliant!

Now go ahead, check it out, and then bookmark...cause that's what we're going to do.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

Monday, August 25, 2008

clinique defining liner for lips

Because I am consistently losing my liner sharpeners, I adore companies that include one in the packaging.

Clinique's new Defining Liner for Lips ($14) takes it one step further and puts the sharpener inside the cap.

Genius.

My fave is Sugared Fig. It's a great nude-ish color on me, so it'll work with more than just one specific color.

It's smooth, non-feathering application allows me to apply it almost without looking because it glides on so well.

Plus it stays on longer and helps your lipstick to last too.

Here's a few tips on great lip liner application:

1) Apply it before lipstick and after hydrating your lips with some balm. Lightly follow the outline of your lips and use your finger, or a lip brush to soften the line inwards. Finish with some lipstick or colored gloss.

2) Apply your lip liner to the outline and lightly fill in. Soften with your finger or a brush and apply lip balm or clear gloss on top.

3) Apply your gloss or lipstick first, then go over the outline with the matching lip liner. This is my favorite way to do it. I really think that this helps the color to not bleed and finishes it off well.

No go forth and line away darlings.

Jennifer
photo courtesy of clinique
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

new coach legacy perfume

We love all things Coach here at b.i.r.l.

Their bag designs have really come a long way and that includes their pricing...um...hello...$1000 for a Coach bag...when did that happen?

Anyway...they've really upped the coolness factor and this new perfume is soooo going on our list of things to try.

Coach Legacy ($75) is described as a blend of florals combined with ambers, precious woods, and vanillas.

It sounds perfect for fall.

We're both loving the bottle design, which uses the legacy striping on the stopper...too cute.

The other thing to know is that this is a eau de parfum which is stronger than a eau de toilette...meaning it should last longer on the skin.

Love that.

We're also dying over their new Coach Legacy Lip Gloss Charm ($58). It's super adorable and totally portable.

Great for attaching on to your Coach bag and heading off to where ever.

It comes with two Coach lip gloss colors contained in a gold-plated and enamel heart shaped charm.

Love. That

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photos courtesy of coach
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

l'oreal visible lift line-minimizing and tone enhancing concealer

Considering that Little L is going to be going to preschool two times a week starting in September, I'm going to have to bring out my "A" game.

Why?

Well...I'm a notorious late-starter.

Just ask Christine.

She is the notorious on-timer.

It doesn't matter how much time she gives me...I am always late. I always find something to do that affects me getting in to the shower, getting dressed, and so on.

So, if we have a play date and she's coming over here, guaranteed she'll arrive on time (at this point I've had like 2 hours to get ready mind you) and I've just gotten out of the shower.

Add in the fact that school will be starting on time at 9:15 in the morning and now you see the panic.

How the heck am I going to get ready on time without just crawling out of bed and making it there in my pj's.

And I have to get Little L ready, fed, out the door, and get him there on time as well.

There is no way.

At least I do have one thing down to a science and that's my beauty routine. I can throw a face together in 5 minutes or less and look presentable to the masses.

One product that helps with the speedy application is this L'Oreal Visible Lift Line Minimizing and Tone Enhancing Concealer ($12).

Why?

Well, it comes with it's own brush-as-applicator-as-packaging, so all you do is turn the other end a couple of clicks and apply....the concealer comes out the end where the brush is.

The concealer itself covers beautifully and lasts. I used the medium shade and it's perfect for me...not too light, so I don't get that infamous reverse raccoon look.

I'm also loving the fact that it contains ingredients within the concealer itself that fight the signs of aging.

The combo of Pro-Retinol A, Pro-Xylane, and Hyaluronic acid help to minimize fine lines and reduce the appearance of puffiness...plus it has SPF 20!

Perfect for when I will inevitably show up late to preschool in the sweatpants and t-shirt that I wore to bed, with a baseball cap to cover the bedhead.

Cause you so know that's definitely going to happen.

Jennifer
photo courtesy of l'oreal

lancome juicy tube in rose fishnets

We love a great Juicy Tube.

Come on...you know how much we love lippies here...right?

What we so love about Lancome Juicy Tubes is that they smell so yummy and give your lips a hint of sheer divine color. Love that.

One of the recent tube-y offerings, is Lancome Juicy Tubes Rose Fishnets ($18) which has adorable packaging, a fabulous rosy-nude-hint-of-gold shade that looks awesome on pretty much everyone, and it was created exclusively for Sephora...so you can only buy it there and online at lancome-usa.com.

But the cool part is that Marc Jacobs has designed a matchy t-shirt that echos both the color and the fishnet design.

The tee comes from his Marc by Marc Jacobs label and is so cute and feminine in pink-nude with a black fishnet design.

Called the Cotton Fishnet Tee ($98) it's a great way to wear a Marc Jacobs and not have to take out a small loan to pay for it.

Wear both the gloss and the tee together with jeans or a pencil skirt and a sharp black jacket and voila!

Say hello to a pre-fall look that's just to die .

Another tip?

For fall, if the thought of wearing nude pantyhose makes you want to claw your eyes out...try this tip from Sandy Linter, Lancôme’s beauty at every age expert and celebrity makeup artist.

Try nude fishnets. You get the coverage you need, a little sex appeal and zero frump factor!

Head on over to sephora.com or lancome-usa.com for the Juicy Tube and Saks Fifth Avenue stores or online.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photos courtesy of lancome and marc by marc jacobs
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

Sunday, August 24, 2008

daily beauty bytes poll

Hello darling readers!

We have a quick question that we hope you wouldn't mind answering. Lately, we've been posting Daily Beauty Bytes from the Total Beauty Network.

They are posted once a day and we're in the process of testing them out to see what you think. We realize that this may be something that you may or may not like....so we want your opinion.

What do you think of the Daily Beauty Bytes? Take the poll below and let us know!

We'll tally the results and make our decision to either continue with the Beauty Bytes or not continue with it, based on your answers.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

jurlique biodynamic beauty range shindig

So Christine and I are wondering why we weren't given the opportunity to rub shoulders with the rich and famous at this celeb studded Jurlique Biodynamic BBQ that took place a few of Saturday's ago at Hillhaven Lodge in LA...all in celebration of the arrival of Jurlique’s new Biodynamic Beauty Range.

Who was there?

Oh...just film director and producer,Brett Ratner, CEO of Jurlique Eli Halliwell, Salma Hayek, Rosanna Arquette, Paris Hilton, Stevie Wonder, Oliver Stone, Jamie-Lynn Sigler, Gerard Butler, Francis Ford Coppola, Naomie Harris, Scott Caan, Jared Leto, Ileana Douglas, Claire Forlani, Nicole Esposito, Tracey Edmonds, and Sanaa Lathan.

Uh...yeah...so what were we doing that day? Um...definitely not this...

Guests there enjoyed an afternoon of relaxation and renewal with complimentary hand and food treatments using Jurlique’s signature Rosewater Balancing Mist and Rose Hand Cream ( we hear it's fab), while sipping on Lavender Lemonade--specially created for the BBQ. The menu also included biodynamic and locally sourced food and biodynamic wine from Benziger winery.

Uh...yeah...wish we had so been there.

What's so great about the new Jurlique line is that the collection of plant and flower-based extracts, elixirs, and lotions are made from chamomile, calendula, lavender, and rose – hand-sown, hand-tended, and hand-harvested on its own certified organic, biodynamic farms in South Australia .

The new Biodynamic Beauty Range includes the Biodynamic Beauty Serum (fabulous), Eye Cream (amazing - review to come), Refining Treatment (ditto the eye cream statement), and Night Lotion (fabulous to the the 2nd power).

Each features a blend of biodynamic and organic herbs and flowers combined with potent naturally derived ingredients that soften the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and discolorations while helping to renew and strengthen skin. With continued use, Biodynamic Beauty encourages a smooth, fresh, luminous complexion and invites you to embrace every feature of your unique beauty.

Head on over to jurlique.com for more information on their amazing products and to purchase.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photos courtesy of jurlique proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

model.live on vogue.tv - episode 2

For your entertainment pleasure, here's an episode of Model.Live from Vogue.TV.

Model.Live tells the story of three models on their way to fashion weeks around the world.

In this episode, Cato leaves her family, friends and boyfriend in Holland, with a going away party before departing for New York City.

Favorite line?

I can always party when I'm 30.

Um...sure...yeah...whatever you say. Trust us...once you hit 30 you value something called sleep.

Anyway...enjoy!

Don't forget to check out their daily diaries, e-mails, chats, voice mails, schedules and more at bebo.com/modellive And you can shop the show each week only on Vogue.TV with styles from EXPRESS.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

loving the cover : cameron diaz on people stylewatch

This is the look gracing the cover of People Style Watch for September.

It's actually from a 2007 appearance at a movie premiere in Tokyo.

Goes to show you that certain looks never go out of style.

The best thing about StyleWatch, is that they broke-down her makeup colors and gave us three inexpensive options.

Here they are:

For her eyes, CoverGirl Eye Enhancers in Golden Sunrise. Its a great coppery hue that really works with her warmer and slightly sunkissed complexion.

It also works with the gold dress (although it's hard to tell in this photo) and her gorgeous hair color....without being too matchy-matchy.

Use it on the upper lid and to smoke-out under the eyes as well.

For her cheeks, Revlon Cream Blush in Berry Flirtatious. We love love love cream blushes because they automatically look natural and perfect.

This color will just give you that hint of color on your cheeks.

Smile and apply to your apples. Don't apply too much though. Just enough for a pop.

To provide a hint of pinky goodness on her lips...Neutrogena MoistureShine Soothing LipSheers in Frosty Mauve.

Mauve is everywhere this fall and works here fabulously.

A nude lip wouldn't have gone well at all, the pink is perfect..just enough color to complete the look.

Apply and go.

Done. Gorgeous. Love. It.

The best thing about all of these, is that they are all under $10 and can be found online at drugstore.com...or at your local Target, CVS, Walgreens, or any mass market retailers.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo of people style watch courtesy of girlprops.com
all other photos courtesy of drugstore.com
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

Saturday, August 23, 2008

sera eye wrinkle serum

I have been using Sera's Eye Wrinkle Serum for the last couple of weeks. While using it, I have tried it a couple different ways - alone under my makeup and paired up with my regular eye cream. And I briefly stopped using the serum and just used my eye cream to see if anything noticeable happened.

After all the different combinations, I prefer the duo action of the Serum with my eye cream on top. It seems like the Serum helped to fill in any lines I have and the eye creme provided the right amount of moisture for under my eyes.

The Serum comes in a roll on glass bottle (all made out of recycled glass, that can be recycled again when you are done with the product). It contains dermatologist grade active peptides an fruit acids to help target the deepest of laugh lines and crow's feet. It also has Aloe Leaf gel and cucumber to soothe and soften. If you are really motivated you can apply the Serum up to three times a day. I apply it twice a day - morning and again at night.

For more information on the Serum and the other products available, visit rollawaywrinkles.com or by calling 1.877.653.0015. There are 5 products total in the line and they are all $39.95.

Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

beauty deal of the week...origins

Alright all you Origins lovers, from now until September 3rd, 2008 (or supplies last) at origins.com you can receive 1 of 3 sample sets and free shipping with any Origins order.

Or you can check out an Origins location near you, take part in a 2-minute skin consultation, and get your free set that way.

So either way it's a win-win situation.

Head on over to origins.com for more info, or to find a Origins store near you! Also, be sure to keep up with Origins' page on Facebook, so that you can always be on top of deals like this.

Remember, it's only until September 3rd, 2008...or while supplies last...so hurry!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of origins
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

weekend reads....from total beauty

Here are what some of our friends are up to over at Total Beauty....

Find out what yummy scented body souffle The Makeup Divas is all excited about.

Monique at Beauty Girl Musings discovers it's what's on the inside that counts with Elizabeth Grant's Vitamin C Body Lotion.

Viva Woman tells you how John Masters Organics Vitamin C Anti-Aging Serum & John Masters Organics Mandarin Maximum Moisture help to lighten up some of her pigmentation caused by sun damage.

Beauty's SPOT figures out that waxing and plucking may be a thing a of the past with the Artemis Woman Personal Groomer.

Don't forget to enter Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog free giveaway from MORE Magazine.

Frappelattes gives L'Oreal's new Bare Naturale Mineral Mascara a spin and lets us know how it delivers.

Roselyn from Makeup Makes Me Happy counts down the 10 most wacky beauty tips, that actually work!. You may just be surprised to see what they are!

Win a RisWallet from A Mom in Red High Heels. It's a hands-free solution for a busy woman!

Now is your last opportunity to win in the[comfort zone] giveaway at Fabulous Over Forty

Beauty411 tells you about a product that will help you rewind lines and wrinkles. And it's completely painless!

Want a gorgeous tan without damaging your skin? Beauty Tyrant has found a summer must-have sunscreen that lets you enjoy the sun without worrying about your skin!

Meredith at Daily Dose of Coffee offers up some tips on purchasing the perfect mascara for YOU.

How to get your skin glowing like Beyonce-Talking Makeup!

The Beauty Alchemist visits with Van Cleef and Arpels new Feerie perfume.

Beauty Anonymous reveals her travel-friendly beauty goodies.

To celebrate the kickoff of the new Hills season, Glossypink tells you how to score Whitney Port's beautiful makeup.

Product Girl is having a giveaway and you can enter to win Essie's 6-piece fall collection. Good luck!

Ah, Fall! Celebrate the peculiar and sexy scents of Autumn with Fifty-Cent Head and Black Phoenix Alchemy Labs.

Find out what Beauty Blogging Junkie is using to hydrate her chlorine-ravaged locks here.

with love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

weekend reads...from the beauty blog network

Good morning! Ease into your weekend with some great blogs from the beauty blog network....

Find out what yummy scented body souffle The Makeup Divas is all excited about.

Losing sleep over your dark circles? Beauty Junkie in SF has found a little tube from Smashbox to help brighten those eyes and make them camera ready.

Roselyn from Makeup Makes Me Happy counts down the 10 most wacky beauty tips, that actually work!. You may just be surprised to see what they are!

Katharine Towne of HBO's hit show, Tell Me You Love Me reveals her beauty tips **exclusively** to Beauty Banter!

Find out why the Muse is excited about Urban Decay's New Lipsticks with a detailed review and swatches of four shades!.

A Touch of Blusher brings you Fall 2008 Makeup Trend Report.

Beauty Anonymous reveals her travel-friendly beauty goodies.

Beauty411tells you about a product that will help you rewind lines and wrinkles. And it's completely painless!

Beauty and Fashion Tech looks at Five Great Uses for Creme de la Mer and tells you how it can actually be a good value.

Girl Gloss tries out lip balm made with beer !

How's your summer skin doing? Cybelesays suggests finds one that is made just for this seasons hot temps.

makeup loves me reveals the details of what promises to be fall's most talked about (sought after) limited edition product!

Karen from Makeup and Beauty Blog gives you swatches and product shots of the entire Cult of Cherry collection, the newest release from MAC Cosmetics.

Kyle at Face Candy suggests 2 new face oils to try.

Product Girl is having a giveaway and you can enter to win Essie's 6-piece fall collection. Good luck!

Find out what Beauty Blogging Junkie is using to hydrate her chlorine-ravaged locks here.

with love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

Friday, August 22, 2008

allure + givenchy = cool deal for you

Okay...so Allure has teamed up with Givenchy to offer a cool deal to their readers.

All you have to do is head in to a local Sephora and check out all of the new goodies from Givenchy.

Try some products and give your friend and yourself a new look! Take a photo and then head on over to allureaccess.com, upload your pics, and then tell them about your fave Givenchy products.

That's it!

Each month, five readers will be featured in a phenomenal online winner slideshow.

In December, they'll then choose one Grand Prize Winner's photo submission, from all of the monthly winners, to be featured in an upcoming issue of Allure magazine!

So, go on and get your look on darlings!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of sephora
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

pureology's limited edition break the silence volume booster

PureOlogy has continued it's partnership with the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) as the organization’s official haircare and styling partner.

During September and October, PureOlogy will offer a Limited Edition Break the Silence Volume Booster promotion which includes PureVolume Shampoo, 10.1 Oz. and PureVolume Condition, 8.5 Oz. Also included is a tortoise shell style brush with NOCC’s signature teal color bristle pad. The box features information about the signs and symptoms of Ovarian Cancer to educate women about this disease.

It's basically a way to get some great products and support an amazing cause....because in conjunction with the Booster promotion, PureOlogy will also donate $25,000 to the NOCC.

PureOlogy and the NOCC will continue our year long campaign to facilitate a greater dialogue that will lead to earlier diagnosis, improved survival rates and quality of life for women with ovarian cancer...explains Karen Fuss-Zipp, Senior Vice President of Marketing for PureOlogy.

Throughout 2008, NOCC and PureOlogy and will host 21 NOCC & PureOlogy’s Walks to Break the Silence on Ovarian Cancer around the U.S. with a national walk in September during Ovarian Cancer Awareness month taking place in Los Angeles, California.

NOCC’s national spokeswoman, Eva LaRue of CSI: Miami, is scheduled to attend the national walk to help increase awareness of the work NOCC and PureOlogy are doing to educate women about the symptoms and risk factors for ovarian cancer.

Additionally, PureOlogy will be on-site at each walk, distributing travel-packs containing HydateShampoo®, HydrateCondition® and teal PureOlogy wristband, to walk participants.

You can help Break the Silence on ovarian cancer!

Find a local city and participate in one of the upcoming 2008 fundraising walks in your area:

* August 23 – Wichita, KS
* September 6 – NATIONAL WALK in Los Angeles
* September 7 – Dayton, OH
* September 13 – Philadelphia, PA
* September 14 – Pittsburgh, PA
* September 14 – Providence, RI
* September 14 – Nashua, NH
* September 20 – Sacramento, CA
* September 20 – Omaha, NE
* September 20 – Long Island, NY
* September 20 – Toledo, OH
* September 21 – Boston, MA
* September 21 – W. Orange, NJ
* September 21 – Columbus, OH
* September 27 – Cincinnati, OH
* September 27 – Dallas, TX
* September 27 – San Antonio, TX

Limited Edition Break the Silence Volume Booster promotion is available for $52. Visit www.pureology.com for salons and spas.

Be sure to visit www.pureology.com/nocc for NOCC & PureOlogy’s Walks to Break the Silence on Ovarian Cancer dates, locations, and registration information.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

daily beauty byte

Another byte of beauty for our lovely readers! We're hoping that you're enjoying them as much as we are!

See review

Guest Review: Redken Elastic Works 09

Rated a 9 by TotalBeauty.com Editor Sarah Carrillo

Redken Elastic Works 09 gives wavy hair well-defined curls that manage to stay bouncy and soft, not crispy or crunchy. I applied it to damp hair and diffused while scrunching. ...More

With love (always)
Jennifer and Christine

beauty buys under $10 - n.y.c. new york color cosmetics chroma face glow

If you want an inexpensive blush/highlighter, you might want to check out N.Y.C. New York Color Cosmetics Chroma Face Glow ($5).

My preference is Moonstone. It's a really pretty light mauve-y pink that can hold it's own with the other luminizers out there.

I like to sweep a little over my cheekbones, around my temples, my tip of my nose, and my chin.

The tip is to use either a big fluffy brush or my favorite MAC skunk brush...both grab just enough product to get the job done right and not leave me looking like I'm trying way too hard.

Think glow-y and natural...not bad 80's music video....because you could be there in the blink of an eye with this stuff...trust me.

If your complexion is on the lighter side, you could rock this as a blush...but...again...use a light hand...build it in layers to get the results you want.

The only unfortunate part is that this isn't available just yet. You're going to have to wait until September to check it out for yourself.

Jennifer
photo courtesy of n.y.c. color cosmetics

ask dr. bienstock

We are beyond thrilled to bring you a new feature here at Beauty in Real Life.

We're starting a new column called Ask Dr. Bienstock.

Who is Dr. Bienstock you might ask?

Well...here's his bio:

Dr. Bienstock is a world-renowned Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon with offices in New York City and Princeton, New Jersey.

A graduate of the prestigious Duke University Medical School, Dr. Bienstock has extensive experience treating patients in everything from complex procedures like body sculpting, to less invasive procedures to reduce the signs of aging like Botox and Juvederm.

As a member of the American Medical Association and American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Dr. Bienstock ensures that each of his patients look and feel their best. Dr. Bienstock’s work is has been on your favorite stars, New York City socialites, and well-known personalities… You’d never know it!

Why are we so thrilled?

Well, Dr. Bienstock is going to be answering the questions that you send us! Isn't that cool?

All you have to do is send us an email at mommyjpresents@gmail.com with Ask Dr. Bienstock in the subject line. Please be sure to include your name and where you're from (don't worry, if you'd rather be anonymous, just let us know). We'll choose the best ones and send them over to the good doctor to answer. If your question is chosen, you'll see it on the blog.

To get the ball rolling, we've asked him a question ourselves:

What's the best way for patients to find good plastic surgeons in their area and what do you need to look for when choosing them?

His answer?

The best avenue to follow in choosing a plastic surgeon in your environment and area is to ask your internist and physicians who are currently taking care of you for recommendations. Another great and viable option is to interrogate your friends and relatives on plastic and reconstructive surgeons that have treated them. They should acquire recommendations from those who have had procedures performed by that plastic surgeon. Two other excellent sources are to use the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website to find a board certified plastic surgeon in your respective zip code at http://www.plasticsurgery.org. And the final option is to target plastic surgeons that are on staff at the teaching or community hospitals. The essential component in the search is to make sure that the doctor is a board certified plastic surgeon and not merely a cosmetic surgeon. Cosmetic surgeon is a mere title and appellation that does not identify any specific level of training.

When a patient chooses their plastic surgeon they should be looking for specific qualities and characteristics. As I mentioned before, the surgeon should be board certified in Plastic Surgery. Many physicians will carry the umbrella of cosmetic surgery; this does not mean that they are board certified nor does this mean that they are surgically trained. Patients and individuals should do their homework and look up their physicians on line and peruse and analyze their credentials. Many plastic surgeons have their CV posted on their website. Patients should not be awestruck by overly slick and decadent websites, advertising and offices; these can often be masks and facades and are not a true testimony of the physician. The surgeon’s surgical skills, integrity, and personality are more important than the quality of leather in his waiting room. Individuals should focus on word of mouth from their friends and colleagues opinions in terms of the physician’s quality of work and bedside manner. Most importantly, the patient should form his/her own impression of the physician during the first consultation. Pictures and diagrams are very useful but the patient should be aware that plastic surgeons will always show pictures of their best work; this does not mean the surgeon will be to achieve the same success with every case. The patient should feel like the surgeon spent enough time and was not rushed during the office visit; he or she should be able to ask enough questions and have them appropriately answered by the plastic surgeon. He/she should feel like a strong rapport was developed between the patient and doctor and that the doctor treated them as an individual patient with specific features and not like every other patient that walks into his office. The patient should come out of the consultation feeling comfortable with the surgeon and not coerced into procedures he/she does not need or want.

Wow...told you he was good.

A couple of things to note:

1) He is a doctor and the answers he gives are to be used as advice/opinion only. You should always, always, always get the opinion of your own doctor before taking this or any medical advice*.
2) Please keep your questions to the plastic surgery and rejuvenation area- both invasive and non-invasive procedures.
3) We will not share your email addresses with anyone.

That's it!

Get working on those questions!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

*Editor's Note: If you decide to follow the advice/opinion of Dr. Bienstock, the editors of this blog are not to be held responsible for what may occur. You are following it of your own free will and at your own risk. All surgery is a risk and should be taken very seriously. As always, before following this or any medical advice you should always check with your own doctor first.

lisa hoffman day cream freebie!

The phenomenal people over at Lisa Hoffman are doing something amazing for our readers.

Truly amazing.

From now until supplies last, you can receive a fabulous Lisa Hoffman Day Cream with SPF 15, absolutely free for you and a friend!

Considering each cream is the full sized version and each one retails for $75, you're getting one heck of a deal!

All you have to do is follow the instructions below:

- send an email to info@lisahoffmanbeauty.com
- make sure the subject line reads Friend of Beauty in Real Life
- include the name, email address and shipping address for you and your friend
- for every Day Cream they ship, the thoughtful folks over at Lisa Hoffman will also include a note to your friend that says they have been personally requested to receive the complimentary Day Cream.
-offer is valid while supplies last.

So...what cha waiting for?

Click on the email address above and get to typing!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of lisa hoffman

Thursday, August 21, 2008

are you ready for another reality show?

We're insane for great reality shows. And the new one on VH1 starring Vivica A. Fox looks like it's going to be fun to watch.

Called Glam Gods, it's premiering tonight at 10 pm and here's a little briefing...

Twelve stylists from all walks of life move into an L.A. loft to compete for the coveted title of Glam God. At stake: representation by a major styling agency, a celebrity spread in US Weekly Magazine, and $100,000. In this first episode, they meet their host, actress Vivica A. Fox, along with her glam panel of judges, US Weekly Bureau Chief Melanie Bromley, and celebrity stylist Phillip Bloch. After viewing highlights from their portfolios, Vivica and her glam panel select four team leaders for their first challenge: "Who wore it best?" Each team must create a red carpet moment using identical designer dresses. By the end of the night, two stylists will be eliminated from the competition and sent home.
Uh...hello..count us in on that!

We're sure lots of drama and tears will be on the menu.

Working to make the contestants camera ready, is Tim Rogers, a stylist for Charles Worthington London.

Tim worked his magic on the contestants utilizing all of the CWL products, but always picking up his favorite, Salt Spray, first.

The unique spray “sure shot” delivery system places product directly where it needs to go –targeting areas that need a “boost” of volume or texturize. Naturally fine and limp strands are plumped up with an active blend of ingredients.

Sounds like two winners to us!

With love (always)
Jennifer and Christine

fall nail colors from essie and opi

I am a sucker for nail polish. And to prove it - the bin under my sink that holds my nail polish is twice the size of my bin for hair care products and I love my hair products.

It took me a while to warm up to the brightness of the Spring and Summer colors, but once I did, I couldn't get enough of them. And I wonder if I can still get away with them for a few more weeks.

But on the other hand I have seen the lineup of the new Fall colors that area starting to come out and I am LOVING them. Berries and Mauves and Grey Blues (uhh, hello Stormy Blue from The Tracey Reese for Sally Hansen line)....love, love, love them. I can't wait for it to be legal to wear them.

First, there is Essie's Fall Collection that still has some bright colors in there, they're just a little darker than the neon, glow in the dark colors we saw in the Summer. The new Collection features 6 new colors: Top Row - Big Spender, Forever Young, Lacy Not Racy. Bottom Row - No Boundaries, Swept Off My Feet, Tomboy No More (bottom row). All the colors are $8 a bottle and can be found anywhere Essie is sold or online at essie.com.

Now for OPI, their Fall Collections is awesome. La Collection de France. In the words of Rachael Ray..."yumm-o". There are 12 colors with great names. I can't for the life of me find a decent picture of all 12 colors. So, click here and it will take you straight to the collection. The colors are Louvre Me, Louvre Me Not, Parlez-vous OPI, You Don't Know Jacques, Tickle My France-y, Bastille My Heart, I'm Fondue of You, A Oui Bit of Red, We'll Always Have Paris, Eiffel for This Color, Baguette Me Not, Crepes Suzi-ette, and Yes...I Can-can. All of the colors are around $8.50 a bottle.

And the third and final Collection I can't wait to go see....Sephora. Wait, what?! Yep, OPI teamed up with Sephora and created a line just for the store. There are 54 great colors to choose from and with great names like Nonfat Soy Half Caff and Brunette on the Internet, you know you are curious to check them out too. These are a little bit more at $9 a bottle, but what's fifty cents? Check out all the colors at sephora.com or in the store.

I'm off to paint my nails....now I just need to pick a color......

Christine
photo of sephora opi polish courtsey of sephora.com
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

bobbi brown limited edition artist palette for lips

Bobbi Brown fanatics...uh...that's so us too...hold on to your lip palettes.

The mother of all lip palettes is now available at neimanmarcus.com.

We kid you not.

Take a gander at the ginormous palette gracing this post.

It's seriously huge!

Included in the Exclusive Limited Edition Artist Palette for Lips is a retractable lip brush and 42 lipstick shades in three different formulas...semi-matte, creamy, and sheer.

The colors?

Holy mackerel...just look at the names you'll get!

• Tulle Lip Color
• Slopes Lip Color
• Orange Lip Color
• Chocolate Lip Color
• Brown Lip Color
• Beige Lip Color
• Burnt Red Lip Color
• Hot Cocoa Lip Color
• Red Lip Color
• Blondie Pink Lip Color
• Brownie Lip Color
• Roseberry Lip Color
• Sandwash Pink Lip Color
• Blackberry Lip Color
• Salmon Lip Color
• Rose Lip Color
• Raisin Lip Color
• Pink Lip Color
• Pale Pink Lip Color
• Tulip Lip Color
• Brownie Pink Lip Color
• Bronzed Pink Creamy Lip Color
• Uber Pink Creamy Lip Color
• Raisin Berry Creamy Lip Color
• Crystal Pink Creamy Lip Color
• Blue Raspberry Creamy Lip Color
• Heather Buff Creamy Lip Color
• Pink Ballet Creamy Lip Color
• Nude Pink Creamy Lip Color
• Nectar Creamy Lip Color
• Rose Petal Creamy Lip Color
• Italian Rose Creamy Lip Color
• Peony Lip Sheer
• Bare Lip Sheer
• Plum Lip Sheer
• Cranberry Lip Sheer
• Rosy Lip Sheer
• Pink Berry Lip Sheer
• Ruby Lip Sheer
• Black Plum Lip Sheer
• Tangerine Lip Sheer
• Natural Beige Lip Sheer

The only con here?

It's $200.

Yes...that's right...we said $200.

But, you know that you are getting the equivalent of 42 lip colors here. And that would be a great deal more that $200.

Really...do the math...42 x $22 =___ ...um...well...okay...we were never that good at math and it's really early in the morning...so let's just say that it's a whole heck of a lot of money people.

Head on over to Neiman Marcus online right now. You know this will sell out. Trust us.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of neiman marcus

beauty bites

You've probably been wondering what the heck these things actually are. It's just a way for us to give you a little insight to what's going on over at Total Beauty. So go explore and have some fun! We'll be here when you come back!

See reviews

Top 23 "As Seen on TV" Skin Products

Find out which acne fighters, anti-aging creams and moisturizers are worth the shipping and handling fees

Admit it: On nights you can't sleep you may stay up watching infomercials or checking out what Suzanne Somers is hawking on the Home Shopping Network. After an hour or so, those products all start to sound pretty great. But which ones are really worth picking up the phone for? TotalBeauty.com readers bravely ordered and found out. Check out their favorite "as seen on TV" skin care products. ...More

.

With love(always,
Jennifer and Christine

rock & republic cosmetics

The label that brought you the I-have-to-buy-a-pair-of-those-jeans now brings you omg-I-gotta-have-that makeup.

Rock & Republic's new cosmetics line, to be released September 15th, is guaranteed to have you reaching for your nearest charge card.

A few items that caught our eyes?

Well...for starters there's their Imitate Mousse Blush ($28) and Extremist Mascara ($28) that are perking our interest.

Another love-at-first-sight item for us, is their Luxe Lip Gloss in Alpha Blond ($26).

The name alone has Christine working up a sweat just thinking about it.

But the one piece that has us each freaking out at it's to die for gorgeousness is the compact above.

It's top is encrusted with Swarovski crystals and contains a bronzer/highlighter combo.

The bronzer is matte and is said to be a medium bronze tone that will compliment all skin tones. The highlighter will be available in coral, rose, and gold and has a shimmer.

Adding to the luxury factor you will also get a Kabuki Brush and two drawstring pouches for both the brush and the compact.

Called Accentuate Bronzer/Highlighter Collection this piece will retail for...are you sitting down...$225!!

Definitely a big hunk of change, but for R & R fanatics...and you know they are out there...we're sure they will go like hotcakes.

The entire collection is due to be released on September at Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, and Bloomingdales.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photos courtesy of rock and republic cosmetics

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

aubrey organics natural lips sheer tint

So loving Aubrey Organics Natural Lips Sheer Tint ($8).

It smells heavenly...either like strawberries or peppermint...your choice.

They make your lips kissably soft and are tinted with a hint of gorgeous color.

It contains 50 percent pure, organic ingredients....uses castor seed and coconut oils to nourish...and uses natural colorants to give your pout a divine dose of color.

Available in eight fabulous shades...Blush Pearl, Frosty Brown, Sugar Clear, Autumn Frost, Strawberry Frost, Pink Pearl, Sheer Pink, and Roby Frost...you'll want to buy all of them!

I'm totally stealing this idea from Lucky...but it's a trick that I've done in the past.

Take any of the lip gloss shades...my fave is Ruby Frost...and add a couple of swipes to the apples of your cheeks and blend. Then swipe on your lips.

The result is marvelous dewy color that's great for running around.

It really perks up your skin and gives your cheeks a great sheer wash of color.

Plus, you can easily slide the tube in your pocket or makeup bag to reapply later.

Done.

You can find Aubrey Organics in select health food stores nationwide, or on the web at aubrey-organics.com.

Jennifer
photos by aubrey organics
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

august's elizabeth grant winner

Congratulations Kimberly D.!

You are this month's winner of our monthly Elizabeth Grant Giveaway. You will be receiving their phenomenal BioCollasis Advanced Cellular Hydration Day ($100 value).

We think you are going to love it. We are huge fans of the line.

The fun doesn't stop here for those who didn't win today. We just announced 2 more giveaways - each have 3 winners, so be sure to enter them today!

with love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

10 nubar winners...

Congratulations to the 10 winners of the nubar lotion set!!

Valerie W.

Pamela B.
Airody B.
Ashley B.
Katie B.
Tiffany P.
Emily N.
Anita Y.
Sherry B.
Kristi P.

You all will be receiving your set of nubar lotion shortly!

Enjoy!

with love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

m lab body treatment cream...the review

I'm seriously loving the packaging for this M LAB Body Treatment Cream ($185).

It just screams minimalist chic.

Like it would belong to a woman who could pack for a month long trip and fit everything in a travel-on bag.

That kind of woman would only pack the best of the best... so... guaranteed... this would find it's way into her bag (in travel sized airline approved containers, of course).

I adore it because it's amazing.

It has the ability to almost instantly transform my dry skin into something that's smooth as silk.

Suitable for all skin types, it contains peptides, gentle exfoliants, and hydrators that work to promote collagen and elastin production, smooth and brighten skin tone, and provide long lasting moisture.

What have I seen while using this?

Smooth, soft, well hydrated skin, that continues to feel that way all day. I swear that I've also noticed a difference in the little bumps that run down the back of my arms...they're beginning to fade away.

And a little goes a long way...it's that rich.

While it is a major splurge in the body cream department, look at it this way...you probably wouldn't hesitate to spend that kind of cash on a cream for your face...why not treat your body the same?

M LAB is available exclusively at mlabonline.com and Harrods London.

Jennifer
photo courtesy of m lab
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

sanctuary weekend bag giveaway...

We just can't help ourselves these days. We feel the need to share the love with everyone of our readers.

We have another great giveaway for 3 lucky readers. This is the Sanctuary Weekend Pamper Bag ($17.99 each).

Relax and indulge you body with this collection of mini Sanctuary Spa treats to bathe, cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturize your body.

The Weekend Bag includes:
Foaming Bath Soak – 2.53oz
Body Wash – 2.53oz
Body Scrub – 1.69oz
Body Lotion – 2.53oz
Body Polisher (mesh sponge)

And a great part about this, everything included is under 3 ounces so it's great for traveling. This line of spa products is a great way to feel like a million bucks without spending a million bucks - there is not one product listed that is over $20. Awesome!

How do you win? Well, it's pretty easy, we want to hear what your ideal spa day would be and products you would use. Visit this link: target.com for the complete list of Sanctuary Spa Products for your inspiration. Then send us an email at beautyinreallifecontests@gmail.com with "Weekend Bag Giveaway" in the subject line. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address and your ideal spa day and what Sanctuary product(s) you would use.

We will randomly select three winners August 26th at 11pm est. The winners will be announced on Wednesday the 27th!

Alright, just to clarify...One entry per person, duplicate entries will not increase your odds of winning. For this giveaway, only US residents may enter and unfortunately no PO Boxes this time. You have from now until August 26th 11:00 PM EST to enter!

Good luck!!!

with love(always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

*Please Read This: In entering this contest you are giving us permission to forward your name and mailing address to representatives for Sanctuary for fulfillment and mailing of contest prize(s). If you fail to include that information we will disqualify your entry. Three winners, chosen at random, will receive the prize mentioned. Duplicate entries will not improve your chances of winning. Giveaway sponsored by Sanctuary. Some restrictions may apply. Open only to US residents only and no PO Boxes...sorry. Entries will be accepted through 11:00 pm on Tuesday, August 26th, 2008.

luzern labs giveaway

Let us introduce to you Luzern Labs' Force De Vie Creme...

Bathe your skin in the ultimate luxury cream. Brings a glow to tired skin, diminishes signs of lines and wrinkles, promotes fresh cell growth, and deep hydrates. Excellent for those wanting a combination of deep moisture and powerful anti-aging actives.

Key Ingredients:

Pure Molecular Oxygen - Intensive Oxygen penetration promotes the respiration of cellular tissue to regenerate fresh, young skin cells. Helps boosts collagen production.
Coenzyme Q10 - Enhances the cellular natural energy production to increase its ability to repair itself and to fight against wrinkle inducing free radicals.
Multivitamin C Complex - Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate helps protect the skin from UV damage. Ascorbyl Palmitate increases collagen synthesis.
Bio-Swiss Certified Organic Botanicals - Rich in anti-oxidants, polyphenols, and natural anti-aging peptides.

This cream is great for normal/dry, dry, and mature skin. It is suppose to be super gentle and great for sensitive skin as well.

And now for the great news....3 lucky people will each win a jar of the wonderful sounding cream (a value of $125 each!). All you have to do is send us an email to beautyinreallifecontests@gmail.com with "Luzern Labs Giveaway" in the subject line. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address.

We will randomly select three winners August 26th at 11pm est. The winners will be announced on Wednesday the 27th!

Alright, just to clarify...One entry per person, duplicate entries will not increase your odds of winning. For this giveaway, only US residents may enter. You have from now until August 26th 11:00 PM EST to enter!

For more information on Luzern Labs, check out there website at www.luzernlabs.com.

Good luck!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

*Please Read This: In entering this contest you are giving us permission to forward your name and mailing address to representatives for Luzern Labs for fulfillment and mailing of contest prize(s). If you fail to include that information we will disqualify your entry. Three winners, chosen at random, will receive the prize mentioned. Duplicate entries will not improve your chances of winning. Giveaway sponsored by Luzern Labs. Some restrictions may apply. Open only to US residents only...sorry. Entries will be accepted through 11:00 pm on Tuesday, August 26th, 2008.

jillian dempsey for avon retro charm collection

Both of us Love Jillian Dempsey for three reasons..

1) she's a seriously amazing makeup artist
2) she's married to Patrick Dempsay aka McDreamy from Grey's Anatomy (uh...hello...best show ever)
and
3) she has seriously upped Avon's coolness factor.

Retro Charm is yet another gorgeous color collection from Jillian and the brand that's destined to be on everyone's radar.

If you don't believe us, check out what's being included in the collection below...

Jillian Dempsey for Avon Retro Rouge ($10.00 seen in photo) – This blush is said to deliver a divine sheer wash of color. We're dying over the embossed pattern. Shades include Charmed Rose and Vintage Shimmer.

Jillian’s Tip: Romance your cheeks with soft color. Smile to see the apples of your cheeks, then use a brush to dot Retro Rouge in the center, blending in a circular motion toward upper cheekbones.

Glazewear Extreme Lip Gloss ($6.00) – A non-sticky formulaset to deliver sheer color as well as shine. And you know we love us a new gloss. New shades being offered include Vintage Vamp, Charmed Rose, Retro Red and Classic Nude.

Jillian’s Tip: When lips go bold, lids go whisper-soft. Don’t be afraid to try intense lip color—you can always blot it and add lip gloss for a truly customized look.

Ultra Color Rich Lipstick ($6.50) – The name says it all. Who doesn't want a strong lip for fall? New shades include Vintage Vamp, Charmed Rose, Retro Red and Classic Nude.

Jillian’s Tip: Layer under Glazewear Extreme Lip Gloss for saturated color and shimmering shine.

True Color Eyeshadow Singles ($4.00) – Add dimension to cat eyes with shimmer and smoky shadow. Ideal for blending together and layering, these single pan shadows come nestled inside a compact that includes a sponge-tip applicator. New shades include Subtle Brown, Aqua, Apricot and Black Mineral.

Jillian’s Tip: For an eye-opening look, start with Subtle Brown on the base of the lid and extend slightly above the crease. Next, add high shimmer with Black Mineral on the lid and along the bottom lash line. Finally,apply liquid liner along upper lid, extending slightly past the lash line. Finish with two coats of mascara.

Perfectly Portable Liquid Liner($7.50) – A liquid liner that's reportedly transfer-proof, smudge-proof, and fade-proof as well as portable. Plus it's trying to make the application process easier with a perfectly angled applicator. Shades include Warm Brown and Black.

Jillian’s Tip: Apply in a single stroke along upper and lower lash lines for flawless definition.

Nailwear Nail Enamel ($4.50) – All we have to hear is the word vamp and we're there. Colors being offered Vintage Vamp, Charmed Rose, Pink Silhouette and Classic Nude.

Jillian’s Tip: A rich shade like Vintage Vamp is great for a night out, while the softness of Pink Silhouette and Classic Nude works for any occasion.

All are due to be released this month, but we haven't seen them on avon.com yet. We'd say keep checking and we'll work to keep you posted as well.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of avon
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

clinique's dream shoe quiz and high impact lip color

Hey...pssst...ya wanna try and win a pair of some killer shoes?

Yeah?

Well...do yourself a favor...head on over to clinique.com/dreamshoe beginning today through September 20th and take their Dream Shoe Quiz to determine which shoe and lipstick color matches your personality.

You could totally walk away with a fabulous pair of shoes and a gorgeous lip stick to match.

One lipstick that we're totally loving right now?

Clinique's High Impact Lip Color SPF 15 ($14). It goes on smoothly and makes your lips feel soft.

It also helps to protect your pout from the short term burning effects of UVB rays and the long term aging effects of UVA rays.

We adore the fact that Clinique gives you 20 different choices of colors, each one better than the next. Our fave is Pure Posh which is a great bronze-y color that amazingly looks gorgeous on each of us.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of clinique
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

the hills and ny mag - the cut...perfect together

We're in love with two things lately, The Hills and NY Mag - The Cut.

The premiere episode aired yesterday...OMG did you watch it...so loving the Lo side pony.

Anyway...here's their fabulous recap...enjoy.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of mtv online

bioelements multi task system for eyes

The Multi-Task System for Eye s is comprised of two products – a creme and an oil – that can be used alone or together.

The Multi-Task Eye Creme – contains pigment-lightening vitamin K, firming lipoic acid, brightening antioxidants, strengthening beta glucan, de-puffing cucumber, healing Chinese herbs and moisturizing shea butter. Light and non-greasy, it combats dark circles, eases puffiness and fights loss of firmness.

Multi-Task Eye Oil – Contains antioxidant vitamins and rare GLA oils including Primrose, Rose Hip and Borage, this nurturing blend lubricates and locks-in moisture, cushioning the eye in softness. Helps safeguard against harsh external factors as it soothes-out tiny lines.

Well, I was getting ready to try this out and I was telling my mom what I was getting ready to review, she made a special mention that this sounded really interesting. So, I thought I would share the love and get on her "I love you the best today" list. It's not really a competition between my brother and I, but I would prefer to be on it more often than he's on it. So, I sent this to her for her to try.

When I sent it to her, I told her she would have to let me know her deep thoughts regarding the products. So, sit back, relax and enjoy a review from my mom....

"I love them both, they are especially good for recovering from late nights and/or crying a lot!!. Now that I am hormonally challenged, I cry quite a bit. At night I use both the oil and the creme. During the day I just use the creme. The oil is too heavy and shiny for daytime. I saw a big difference right away. There was no irritation or bumps from the oil. My skin is very sensitive and it didn’t bother it at all. I know that antioxidant ingredients are the new thing and there are a lot of them in the creme. I have also noticed how well both the oil and the creme work on any puffiness I may have."

That's all she wrote folks.

A little explaining... my mom's "hormone challenge" is that big change in life, so I think I need to be extra nice to my husband for the next 20 years because he's going to need all the help he can get when I hit 50 - considering I am just like my mom - whatever is happening to her is bound to happen to me at some point. And all of her crying isn't the bad/sad crying, most of it is just crying, like if it is around that time of the month and you happen to be especially emotional and you can cry at the drop of a hat. I didn't want anyone to think she's off her rocker or anything.

Anyhoo, back to the eye system, when my mom first started trying it out I remember her telling me how awesome it was. I like that you can get both items together or buy and use them separately - if you just want the eye oil you can get just that and same with the eye crème. For best results you are suppose to use the creme over the oil. I'm pretty sure I would do the same thing as my mom and just use the creme during the day and then both products at night.

Both the Multi-Task Eye Oil and Multi-Task Eye Creme are $35 each. I found the System Kit on dermstore.com for $66.50 and just the Eye Creme for $29.75.

Available at spas across the U.S. visit bioelements.com for locations. Bioelements is also available online at Spalook.com and Dermstore.com.

So a BIG thank you to my mom for participating with our little blog. I'm glad you liked it so much.

Christine
photos courtesy of bioelements.com
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

Guest Review: Marco Pelusi Anti-Frizz Leave-In Conditioner

Rated 9.5 by TotalBeauty.com Editor Charli Schuler

It's easy to see why Marco Color Anti-Frizz Leave-In Conditioner with Collagen Color Guard is hairstylist Marco Pelusi's signature product. Just one or two pumps miraculously detangle knots and tame frizz on all hair types. ...More

bond no. 9 - andy warhol lexington avenue

Introducing the newest fragrance from Bond No. 9 Andy Warhol Lexington Avenue ($195 for 100ml $135 for 50ml).

A third in a series of eau de parfums that are named after the prolific pop artist, it's destined to become a classic as well.

It's named after the street where Andy Warhol had an apartment...Lexington Avenue. There he lived and created gorgeous illustrations of imaginative shoes.

A fabulously-colorful assortment of Warhol shoe images, graces each bottle.

We so loving that.

The perfume itself sounds to die for.

It's described as a floral woody chypre (chypre meaning fresh citrus topnotes and a lingering forest-like base) with highly coveted contemporary gourmand notes a brew of peony, orris, patchouli, sandalwood, cardamom, fennel, almonds, cumin, and even crème brulee.

It just sounds like a divine combination of scents that will make this perfect for fall and winter.

Love that.

As if the gorgeous bottle and fabulous perfume isn't enough, Bond No. 9 is also putting out limited-edition flacons for the holiday season.

Each will feature Robert Lee Morris sterling silver shoe pendants of Warhol’s shoe designs—four of them—on a sterling silver chain.

Too adorable really...the suggested retail is $575.

All are expected to launch in September 2008, at Bond No. 9’s four New York City boutiques, bondno9.com, and at Saks Fifth Avenue stores nationwide.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photos courtesy of bond no. 9
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

Monday, August 18, 2008

this just in...limited edition lancome color fever gloss in piha black

You've probably seen that the blackish-red lip is totally going to be it for the Fall.

From the runways to the editorial shots in mags, the look definitely veers more towards the black, than the deep red we're in love with.

Kind of a gorgeous-goth look than something that would actually work in the real world.

If you're dying to try this trend, but don't want to look like a female version of Marylin Manson, you might want to give this black lip gloss a try.

It's a low-pigment black gloss, that's easy to wear alone or it can be blended with other shades for a little more drama.

Lancôme will be debuting their Color Fever Gloss in Piha Black this November.

This is part of a luxe lip set created by Aaron de Mey, Lancôme’s new artistic director for makeup.

The set will consist of the Color Fever Gloss in Piha Black and Color Fever Lipstick in Piha Red...inspired by the red of a Christian Louboutin sole.

Both were named after the name of the beach near Aaron’s childhood home in New Zealand.

Aaron is a big adherent of having fun with makeup, so the idea is to wear the colors alone or to customize your own shade by mixing them together. (Check out the lips above to see just how that looks.) Aaron also loves to use Piha Black as an eye gloss, too.

Get your charge cards ready, because only 500 of the sets will be available in the United States, exclusively at the Bloomingdale’s 59th Street location, lancome-usa.com and the five Lancôme boutiques.

The waiting list at Bloomingdale’s 59th Street has just opened. You can call 212-705-2886 to add your name to the list.

Hurry...we're sure these will go fast!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

this just in...new molton brown travel essentials

Tell us that this isn't a brilliant and tasty way to introduce new products to your customers.

Man we wish that we lived near one of these locations.

To celebrate the launch of the new travel essentials (editors note: men's kit is to the right and women's kit is below left), the Molton Brown emporium invites customers to sip on some travel-inspired beverages to commemorate areas from around the world that are both popular travel destinations as well as locations where Molton Brown is sold.

On Wednesday August 20^th from 5pm-close, customers can enjoy plum wine and chilled sake to experience the taste of Japan.

On Wednesday August 27^th from 5pm-close, customers can enjoy Australian wine to celebrate the Molton Brown emporia opening there in the fall.

Travel brochures from both locations above will be available to clientele on the both days so customers can not only learn about Molton Brown, but get some great vacation ideas as well.

With every purchase of one Molton Brown travel essential (the traveller, globe trekker or stowaway) customers will be entered into a raffle to win a Molton Brown leather travel bag packed with Molton Brown therapies.

Locations:

California - South Coast Plaza

3333 Bristol Street, Suite 2860

Costa Mesa

CA 92626

714 549 5951

Mon - Fri: 10 - 9.30pm

Sun: 11 - 6.30pm

Pennsylvania - King of Prussia

King of Prussia Mall

2nd level of the Plaza

160 N. Gulph Road, Suite 2375

King of Prussia, PA 19406

610 337 3051

Mon - Sat: 10 - 9.30pm

Sun: 11 - 7pm

New York - Madison Avenue

515 Madison Avenue

New York, NY 10022

212 755 7194

Mon - Fri: 10 - 7pm

Sun: Closed

New York - SoHo

128 Spring Street (between Greene and Wooster)

New York, NY 10012

212 965 1740

Mon - Sat: 10 - 8pm

Sun: 11 - 7pm

New York - Third Avenue

1098 Third Avenue

Btwn 64th + 65th

New York, 10021

212 744 6430

Mon - Fri: 10 - 7pm

Sun: 12 - 5pm

New Jersey - Short Hills

The Mall at Short Hills

Molton Brown Suite B-127

1200 Morris Turnpike

Short Hills

New Jersey 07078

973 921-0700

Mon - Fri: 10 - 9pm

Sun: 12 - 6pm

Check out moltonbrown.com for more of their phenomenal products.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photos courtesy of molton brown
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

nivea campaign for fashion rocks magazine featuring duffy

This is Duffy and she's being featured in a new campaign for Nivea.

So, how old do you think I felt when I had no clue who the heck Duffy was until I searched her out on You Tube, found the below video, and said...So that's Duffy?

Her song "Mercy" is addicting and her soulful voice is unmistakable...no wonder her debut album Rockferry is doing so well

Plus she's adorably gorgeous.

A combo that Nivea is working in this stunning campaign.

You can actually only see this exclusively in Fashion Rocks magazine (her first campaign in the States)—a supplement to 16 Conde Nast subscriber titles like Vanity Fair, Glamour, Vogue and The New Yorker.

And if that isn’t all, on September 5th, Duffy will join superstars Beyonce, Justin Timberlake, Mariah Carey and Keith Urban, to name a few, at the Fifth Annual Fashion Rocks concert at Radio City Music Hall. This spectacular two hour intersection of music and fashion will air as a CBS special on September 9th on CBS.

If you can't wait till then and want to hear something now...here's a video we found on youtube.com that we dare you not to sing along to.

Enjoy.

With love (always)
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of conde nast
video courtesy of youtube.com
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

ojon tawaka "the ball"...the review

Okay...first and foremost...do not...I repeat...do not lick the Ojon Tawaka "The Ball" ($65).

Even when your two year old gets a hold of it, licks it and says yummy!

He or she will be toying with you.

It does not taste like chocolate, even though it smells like it.

Trust me.

Why?

Because...um...I licked it.

Well...

Little L got a hold of it and actually made me believe that it tasted good. I mean, wouldn't you believe your little one if he licked something, made a happy face, and said yummy?

Are you with me here?

Um...okay...so I'm the only one stupid enough to do it...but, come on...weren't you a little curious to see if it tasted like it smelled?

Really?

I'm all alone here...okay...clearly I never should have trusted a kid that once tried to eat a dog treat because he thought it was a cookie.

Sooooo...moving on...

It definitely works way better than it tastes. Trust me in that.

When you take it out of the package it's a ball the size of a baseball (I'm kinda guessing here - ages since I played the sport) it's pretty smooth, and smells amazingly like chocolate.

It also comes with its own little bowl and a drainage metal disk...which is really a nice little touch.

The directions tell you to run it under warm water for two minutes before you use it, in order to bring out the exfoliants. But once they're out baby...it's on!

It really did a great job of exfoliating my skin and made it feel touchably soft. A word to the wise here, it is made with cacao after all...and the ball is brown in color...so...it definitely gets a little bit messy in your shower...but don't worry...it rinses away.

The best thing to do, I've found, is to rub it over your skin in small circles over your body (or specific trouble spots) and let the moisturizers and other stuffs do their thing for a couple of minutes before rinsing.

It takes a couple of uses to see the results...but you will.

Gorgeous, soft skin.

You can find more information online at ojon.com and sephora.com.

I've also heard mention that they'll be coming out with a white ball which sounds interesting too. Check out that mention by the awesome Jamie over at The Beauty of Life.

Jennifer
photo courtesy of ojon
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

l'oreal vive pro nutri gloss conditioner and conditioning treatment

This is the point in the Summer when I start to worry about the condition of my hair.

After the swimming, the chlorine, the highlighting, the blow drying, and the occasional flat ironing...my hair has gone through a lot.

Add in how dry the air will get come Fall and Winter and we're talking hello static.

Seriously.

It's like someone is following me around with an invisible balloon and constantly rubs it over my hair.

Without the proper shampoos and conditioners...it's like why bother?

While, at this point in the game, I've learned which ones to use and which ones to avoid...I was given the chance to try a conditioner from a brand that (in the past) I had tried and not liked.

What a difference a second chance makes.

Love these conditioners.

L'Oreal Paris Vive Pro Nutri Gloss Conditioner and L'Oreal Paris Vive Pro Nutri Gloss Conditioning Treatment are two separate products that do one hell of a job to make my hair look smooth, shiny, and healthy.

They come in pink bottles...love the color pink btw...and smell heavenly. A very light scent that lasts and doesn't compete. It just (as Christine would say) lingers beautifully and you catch a whiff of it each time you do the Charlie's Angels hair toss.

I love how they rinse out clean and make your hair feel soft and moisturized, but not weighed down.

I'm also loving the fact that these are for medium to long hair that's damaged...which... uh... yeah... okay... so I'm not quite to the medium/long stage yet... but I will be soon... and any coloring, chlorine, and daily blow drying will damage your hair.

These are both great for preventing breakage and split ends...which as anyone knows...are real I-hope-to-someday-have-long-locks-again dream killers.

You can use the conditioner daily and use the conditioning treatment either as a once a week treatment, or more if your hair is drier or dull.

I also ran out and bought the shampoo to go along with the two conditioners that we were given to try out. It wasn't expensive at all and true testament to how much I enjoy using these.

The truly best part?

You can find them all for about $5 and many times you can use a coupon or catch them on sale. My tip? Check out Blogdorf Goodman for her once a week sale circular run down...really...she's amazing...and her blog kicks serious tooshie too.

Jennifer
photos courtesy of l'oreal and drugstore.com
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

Sunday, August 17, 2008

anastasia beverly hills...all about brows kit

Something that we're loving right now is Anastasia Beverly Hills All About Brows Kit ($75).

While the kit we have came with a pink case and an instruction mini dvd...this is as close as we've seen.

For starters, let's begin with the tweezers, they are awesome. Truly awesome.

They grip superbly and do a phenomenal job of getting all of the hairs you need them to get.

Next comes the brow setting gel (in the tube) that's not goopy at all and helps to keep your brows in place.

Next comes the brush.

A combination of a spoolie and a brow brush. The spoolie end helps to brush every hair into place and aids in the brow neatening process...and the angled brow brush helps to apply her brow powder precisely.

The brow powder comes with two shades for you to use to fill in your brows. From what I've been reading, it's best to use two different shades to fill in your brows to keep them natural looking. Use the lighter shade for overall filling of sparse areas and then use the darker shade to define your arch. The spoolie comes into play here too in blending the powder to keep it soft. (editor's note: I should mention that I use the medium ash and Christine uses the ash blonde...both are absolutely perfect for us and our coloring and allowed us to avoid that freakish brow look we were worried about.)

The matte brow highlighter is great for...well...highlighting your under brow area. On the Anastasia website (anastasia.net) they also recommend using it outside your lip line. I think that would work right in the cupids bow of your lips beautifully...for great definition.

The stencils are fabulous if you're not quite sure where to tweeze, or how to shape your eyebrows.

They are easier to use than you'd originally think..considering both Christine and I looked at each other like how the heck are we supposed to use these things. We figured it out quickly and got the swing of it pretty easily after a couple of missteps*.

The final result?

Gorgeous brows that look naturally wonderful. Love.

No go on out there and pluck yourself crazy...but not too crazy.

Jennifer
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

*Just in case you're still having a hard time, Sephora has the video that we got as well. It's really informative and helps with the process.

17 Hairstyles That Take Less Than 10 Minutes

Up 'dos mere mortals like us can actually replicate at home

With a few (and only a few) key products and styling tools, you can quickly give yourself a salon-worthy 'do. And hey, if you hate it, try a different one -- at least you haven't blown 60 bucks and a hour of precious time on it. ...More

our wish list

While we love bringing you products that don't break the bank, we also love to dream once in a while.

Hence the list.

Our wish list consists of things we're loving that, in all honesty, might just be out of our league.

But hey... a girl can dream can't she?

These are things that are definitely going on our wish list...

Trina Cosmetic Bags ($30-$80) any one of these in the cute and cheerful Neo Geo collection is calling our name.

It packs up all of your beauty essentials easily and neatly, and makes for a better traveling experience all around.

They use conveniently placed zippered pockets, space dividers, and colorful zipper pulls to keep all of your goodies in order.

And you can choose between a large clutch, a pencil case, a weekender, and a square train case. We're loving the idea of organizing all of our goods in these and could literally find a use for all of the different styles.

Jo Malone Lime Basil & Mandarin Luxury Candle ($345) I guess this goes on our wish list because...well...it's $345!!

I mean, let's face it, this candle will never see the light of day in either one of our homes...but wish big, I always say.

Imagine taking long gorgeous soaks in the tub (okay...I know...I am not a bath person...but Jo Malone always makes me change my mind...so go with me here) with this divine scent permeating your bathroom.

It also has a way of making any room you put it in look better.

How could it not...did I mention that it's $345??!!

La Prairie Skin Caviar Concealer Foundation SPF 15 ($170) Okay...yeah...it's expensive...but yeah...it's that good.

It also comes with its matching concealer in the cap and its own brush (complete with stand) to apply it.

The foundation itself goes on like silk and melts into your skin.

It's definitely a fuller coverage, but doesn't feel cake-y on...honest.

Plus, it's a treatment foundation...meaning it contains ingredients that will make your skin look better over time...hence the hefty price tag.

In case you're in the mood to splurge...and really...who wouldn't want to splurge once in a while...you can find all of the above at Bergdorf Goodman stores or online a berdorfgoodman.com and neimanmarcus.com.

With love (always)
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

Saturday, August 16, 2008

weekend reads...from the beauty blog network

How's your weekend going so far?

Hopefully good.

Here's some entertaining reads from our friends over at The Beauty Blog Network!

Find out how you can WIN $365 bucks worth of Stila products during The Daily Cookie's anniversary celebration!

The Muse is rounding up concealers! Check out a brand new concealer review for the weeks ahead at Musings of a Muse! No brand goes untouched! Lancome, Jelly Pong Pong, MAC, Bobbi Brown, and Drugstore Concealer finds are just some of the reviews the Muse will be diving into!

A Touch of Blusher got to meet YSL's latest eye palette

The Makeup Divas tells you about a skinvigorating gift set that includes all the tools for looking better.

Beauty Junkie in SF finds that Too Faced's New Mascara gets right to the point of things.

Want to know NYC "it girl" Julia Allison's fave beauty tips? Beauty Blogging Junkie scored an exclusive interview! Click here to read Julia's beauty recommendations from body lotion to faux lashes.

If you like your cosmetics cute and sassy, check out Beauty411'sreview of Jelly Pong Pong Cosmetics. Enter the giveaway while you're there!

Makeup Moxie reviews the new concealer/highlighter duo, Lorac Double Feature.

Take care of your skin! Head to The Beauty of Life now for your chance to win over $300 in Murad products!

Beauty Banter reviews the latest must-have fall color lines - MAC, Smashbox, Tarte, Prescriptives... and more!

Karen from Makeup and Beauty Blog gives you 18 makeup tips from the talented makeup artists at MAC Cosmetics.

Check out Rouge Deluxe's buys from the Jill Stuart, Awake, Canmake and Majolica Majorca fall collections!

Christine from 15 Minute Beauty Fanatic has already found her new fragrance from fall, Bond No 9's Andy Warhol's Lexington Avenue!

Pursebuzz.com shows you how to be part of MAC Cult of Cherry in just ten minutes. Eyes, lips and hair.. well hair is gonna cost you another ten minutes for hair :P

Enter Beauty in Real Life's Elizabeth Grant giveaway for a prize worth $100!

Toya from The Life of A Ladybug talks all about her favorite lip gloss of the summer! Come see what it is!

Spoiled Pretty is hosting two fabulous giveaways this week. Five lucky ladies will win Fancy, Jessica Simpson's new fragrance...and one winner will receive Essie's Fall 2008 Color Collection. What are you waiting for? Enter today!!!

makeup loves me exposes you to the rare treats that are givenchy's fall collection - dandy.

Product Girl's own Christina shows you signature smoldering eye look. What's your signature eye look?

How do you pull your hair back when you wash your face or put on makeup? Cybelesays is having a contest to win one that will solve this issue for you.You will never go back to your old way of doing it.

Have a great weekend!

With love (always)
Jennifer and Christine

frizz fighter product reviews

Hair Product Challenge: Frizz Fighters

These product reviews reveal which formulas tame fine, thick, wavy and curly hair ... and which are a waste of money

We painstakingly perused your ratings and reviews of anti-frizz products to find out which ones made your repeat purchase list and which fell short of your expectations. Soak up the feedback and use it to your advantage next time you're shopping for the perfect frizz-fighting formula for your hair type and beauty budget. ...More

weekend reads....from total beauty

Good Morning! Need a break from all of the Olympics? Check out what's going on with our friends at Total Beauty.....

Are you looking for a foundation that will give you that Peaches and Cream complexion? Find out what products The Makeup Divas reviews and recommends.

Viva Woman shares her tips on application techniques for foundation powder.

Get Jamie's take on what she feels is the Holy Grail of styling lotions atGirl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog.

Monique at Beauty Girl Musings shares her first FOTD featuring Bobbi Brown's Mauve Face Palette!

CHANEL Introduces Coco Mademoiselle Shimmering Touch and Twist & Spray-Talking Makeup!

Want flawlessly radiant skin? Beauty Tyrant has the answer and is totally blown away by this sweet, sweet exfoliator by L'occitane. You'll love it too!

Beauty Junkie in SF gets smooth gams again with the help of the King of Shaves, for women too!

Want to know NYC "it girl" Julia Allison's fave beauty tips? Beauty Blogging Junkie scored an exclusive interview! Click here to read Julia's beauty recommendations from body lotion to faux lashes.

If you like your cosmetics cute and sassy, check out Beauty411'sreview of Jelly Pong Pong Cosmetics. Enter the giveaway while you're there!

Take care of your skin! Head to The Beauty of Life now for your chance to win over $300 in Murad products!

A Mom in Red High Heels is giving away an hour consultation with a Personal Shopper! Find out how to enter!

Have you been wondering how to whiten your teeth effectively at home? Frappelattes has found an answer.

Glossypink reminisces about her first blush and one of her all-time favorite drugstore products!

Get some Juara in your Jamu! Join Beauty's SPOT as she goes back to her Indonesian roots with Juara's Rice Facial Scrub.

Toya from The Life of A Ladybug talks all about her favorite lip gloss of the summer! Come see what it is!

Spoiled Pretty is hosting two fabulous giveaways this week. Five lucky ladies will win Fancy, Jessica Simpson's new fragrance...and one winner will receive Essie's Fall 2008 Color Collection. What are you waiting for? Enter today!!!

Product Girl's own Christina shows you signature smoldering eye look. What's your signature eye look?

Have a wonderful weekend!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

Friday, August 15, 2008

the raspberry buttercream frosting collection by jaqua beauty

Okay...we're being honest here...when a product uses the word buttercream in the name...our ears perk up and we start drooling.

Really?

Buttercream?

We could eat goodies for days that feature buttercream icing. Days!

Then, to go on and add raspberry in front of the buttercream...well...hello lover...we've died and gone to heaven.

New from Jaqua Beauty is their Raspberry Buttercream Collection of body products.

Here's why we're dying over this stuff...

Raspberry Buttercream Frosting Lip Gloss Ring ($8) An adorable ring that Christine loves for its cuteness factor and ability to make her lips feel kissably soft. It gives her lips a sheer pink hue...plus it smells great and tastes like raspberries...yum.

Raspberry Buttercream Frosting Lip Whip ($14) This delicious, nourishing lip gloss is formulated with vitamins A, E, and C to keep lips soft and kissable. The warm, raspberry shade delivers a sheer hint of color that’s a sweet shade on any skin tone.

Raspberry Buttercream Frosting Hand Crème ($8) This luxurious hand crème is packed with the ripe, rich essence of raspberry. Also contains meadowfoam seed oil, fruit extracts and vitamins A and E.

Raspberry Buttercream Frosting Sinfully Rich Body Butter ($22 seen right) I'm loving this ultra rich body butter. First off it makes my skin feel hydrated and well moisturized...thanks mainly to cocoa butter and other natural extracts. It smells delicious in the container and even better on. Plus you have to love the cute-as-a-button packaging it comes in.

Raspberry Buttercream Frosting Shower Syrup ($18) This rich and creamy shower wash is filled with good-for-your-skin ingredients like fruit and aloe extracts, macadamia and evening primrose oils, and vitamins B5, A and E. Great for using before the Body Butter to make the fragrance last even longer. Layering is our friend.

You can find Jaqua Beauty products at select Bath and Body Works, bathandbodyworks.com, ULTA, and jaquabeauty.com.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

Stars without Makeup

See celebrities like Lindsay Lohan, Madonna and Jessica Alba au naturale -- you won't even recognize them!

Most of the time when celebrities are photographed, it's after a team of hairstylists and makeup artists have groomed every inch of them, making them appear flawless (photo retouching helps too). But sometimes we get a snapshot of them without their hair and makeup done and the results are, well, a relief. They're not perfect, as this gallery shows; in fact, they struggle with the same skin issues -- acne, wrinkles -- that we all do. Hallelujah! ...More

napolean perdis + dj sky nellor = new campaign for auto-pilot primer

We seriously want to meet this guy. Really. Anyone that uses the phrase Not to prime is a crime! must be a hoot at parties.

Anyway...this is Napoleon Perdis and this is model-turned-DJ Sky Nellor. She is going to be the new face of his Auto Pilot Pre-Foundation Primer.

We're thinking that that was a no-brainer.

Seriously...look at her...she's stunning.

And she's been a big fan of the fabulous primer since it's inception five years ago.

“It sets your face, your foundation goes on smoother, and your makeup lasts and lasts. It’s exactly what I need.”

Considering she's normally seen DJ-ing at the hottest clubs and celeb filled events...she should know what she's talking about when it comes to longevity.

We would both love to get our hands on this primer.

Containing soothing ingredients like chamomile, yarrow extract and Vitamin E, it ensures what Napoleon Perdis likes to call complexion perfection.

The primer also evens out skin tones, makes foundation appear more natural and go on more smoothly, absorbs excess oil, and calms inflammations.

Thanks...we'll take two please.

You can find Napolean Perdis products at napoleanperdis.com and ULTA.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

beauty buys under $10 - got2b smooth operator smoothing lustre lotion

Okay so...yesterday was my birthday and my day started out kinda bad.

It definitely got better by the end...but it definitely didn't begin that way.

First off, Roman woke up early and tried to change his diaper before I got up.

Let's just say that the stuff that keeps everything liquid in there, resembles some sort of rice-y gel like substance that does not clean up well from wooden floors.

Plus it was gross.

Then the air conditioner broke down.

Happy freaking birthday to me.

So...we're both sitting in a house with no air at this point. I have never realized how much I love the a/c.

I was sweaty and yucky, and my hair was a frizzy mess.

We suffered like this for a couple of hours until Big L got home and went to check on it. Turns out it flipped the switch (or something like that) in the breaker box and all he had to do was switch it on again.

Duh.

That would have been something for me to know like hours earlier right?

So after cooling off for a while in the blissful a/c (thank God for that invention) I took a shower, towel dried my hair, and used this.

This is got2b Smooth Operator Smoothing Lustre Lotion ($8). I love it because it smells amazing...like the best fruity smell EVER...and it tames my not-quite-wavy-but-enough-to-drive-me-crazy hair.

And is the packaging not adorable?

It's also versatile....meaning that you can use this on wet hair or dry...as a finish.

I've been using it off and on for the last couple of weeks (clearly not in the pre-shower scenario - what with the sweat and the frizz) and I love it.

I'm loving how I don't need to use that much product to see results.

My hair is a couple of inches below my chin and I just use a pump or so. I work it from the mid-shaft of my hair and down to the ends while it's wet, then I blow it dry. I normally finish off with a round brush, after a blow dry with just my hands and a vent brush, and then I'm done.

Easy hair that looks great, feels soft, looks smooth, and stays that way much longer than normal for me...especially in this heat.

Plus, it protects against heat styling and it contains a UV protectant...uh..can you say bonus?

The even better part, is that it's literally available at almost any grocery store, drug store, or mass market retailer.

Perfect for us women who love to get everything in one fell swoop...especially while they're out running errands.

Jennifer
photo courtesy of got2b and folica.com
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

omg...really?

Okay....so how amazing is this?

We're featured on today's First Look Fridays over at The Beauty of Life!!!!

Pinch us please because Jamie is just adorable and gorgeous and actually reads our blog!!

Plus to be featured on her blog is just phenomenal because her blog is just fabulous and one of our daily reads.

We'd also like to add that, in addition to the five blogs that we mentioned as our faves, we also either subscribe or visit every blog that's listed under our Blogs About Beauty and Fashion on the right sidebar....seriously...we really do.

And, as always, we would not have anything if it wasn't for you guys...our fabulous readers...you have been making everything possible for us...and we thank you for it everyday.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

Thursday, August 14, 2008

slatkin & co scentportable

There are several places I could think of off the top of my head that I could totally use fragrance where a plug-in is out of the question or a full-sized product would be overkill. Here is a product that would take care of all of those places, like my car and especially my husband's car or his gym bag.

Unlike candles and electric diffusers, SCENTPORTABLE™ lets you bring high-quality fragrance everywhere without a plug, battery or flame. A palm-sized white circular disc with a clip feature, the SCENTPORTABLE™ seamlessly blends into its surroundings. Due to its sleek, chic design, SCENTPORTABLE™ can hang, sit or rest on virtually any surface. Whether you want to refresh your closet or scent your car, the SCENTPORTABLE™ delivers four to six weeks of continuous fragrance.

SCENTPORTABLE™ comes in four different fragrances:

Pineapple Mango — A sunny, tropical blend of sweet pineapple, luscious mango, crisp lotus and a hint of warm vanilla
Cinnamon & Clove Buds — A delicious and comforting scent of irresistible, spicy cinnamon, sweet clove buds and nutmeg with hints of cypress and cedar wood
Fresh Linen — A crisp and clean scent, reminiscent of linen sheets drying in the sun, with light hints of apple, kiwi and violets
Vanilla Coconut - A luscious and exotic blend of Tahitian vanilla and sunny, tropical coconut with the essence of warm ocean breezes

SCENTPORTABLE™ are available at Bath & Body Works stores or online at bathandbodyworks.com for $5 each.

with love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

10 makeup no-nos

Top 10 Makeup Felonies

No one is innocent, not even Paris Hilton. Celebrity makeup artist Fiona Stiles tells which beauty crimes to avoid

Before you make up your next face, there are 10 crucial no-nos you need to know. (Chances are you're guilty of at least one of them.) To ensure that your best efforts aren't wasted, we asked celebrity makeup artist Fiona Stiles to explain why these common mistakes really are that bad ... as if fear of looking like one of these celebrity offenders isn't enough....More

bikini zone

Here is a product that worked wonders during my recent vacation.

I haven't been able to work up the nerve to try waxing anything beyond my eyebrows so...since I was in a bathing suit almost 24/7 for 7 days there was a whole lot of shaving going on.

I got the Bikini Zone ($7.50) right before I left and I prayed it was going to work. The first time I tried it, I noticed that it dried really quickly which was great since there was a lot of just getting up and throwing on a bathing suit and going. And it totally got rid of any redness or irritation that I had.

You can apply it up to 3 times a day and if use it everyday it is supposed to help prevent irritation from even happening. You can use it after shaving, waxing or using depilatories. And it will not stain your clothing or swimsuits. It is available as a creme, gel and in pads.

Bikini Zone contains an analgesic to soothe away pain and irritation. It improves healing by speeding along new skin cells to replace the scraped ones, eliminating redness and razor burn. Lastly, it dries out the small, acne-like blemishes and exfoliates the skin to help prevent hair from curling back into the skin to form an ingrown hair bump. With Bikini Zone, your skin will look and feel better.

For more information and where to buy, visit bikini-zone.com.

Stay tuned...we might have a special little treat for a couple of our readers!

Christine
photo courtesy of bikini-zone.com
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

happy birthday jenn...

I just wanted to wish my partner in crime a Happy, Happy Birthday!!

30 something looks wonderful on you.

Happy Birthday Jenn!

origins offer

Consider yourselves honorary Facebook members!
First off...here is the Origins Facebook page.
Check it out for amazing future offers and great info.

Then, head on over to origins.com, make a purchase, and enter the code Facebook2 at checkout, to receive your free sample
of A Perfect World for Eyes...while supplies last
and only till August 17th, 2008.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

calvin klein secret obsession limited availability

Okay...so apparently, the original commercial for this was banned in the United States.

Basically everyone freaked out because in the original commercial (that featured a naked Eva Mendes) there was a little...uh...nipple sighting.

So...a little panic ensued that basically resulted in re-editing the original and airing another one after 9pm...sans...um...anything in the chest region.

Which really puzzles us, considering this is the same country that wouldn't think twice about airing disturbing videos on the news and allow a fat naked guy to flash his bare tooshie (uh...thanks for that NYPD Blue) on primetime TV.

It's like...that's totally okay...but a woman's breast?

Uh...sorry.

That's just too much.

Anyway...we digress...the point is that this is Calvin Klein's new perfume Secret Obsession ($72).

Won't be available at counters until the Fall, but it is available right this second at macys.com.

Considering Macy's description of this scent is for the woman who is ultra-sensual. Not afraid to go after what she wants, this woman is intense, intriguing and lustful...you better put your order in now.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

P.S. Does it not look like there is a face on the bottle? Or is it just our lack of sleep?

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

going for the gold

I don't know if it's the thrill of the Olympics...or the fact that there are so many gorgeous golden hues up for grabs lately....but I just can't get enough of it.

The best thing about these, are that you can wear them sheer or layered.

And you can wear them any time of the day...you don't just have to relegate them to nighttime use only.

Trust me, they won't make you look like some left-over extra from Saturday Night Fever.

A word of caution...my suggestion is to choose one of these and use it as a great pop of gold. That way it will definitely work in the real world.

If you choose to use all three...well...good luck with that.

For lips, I'm loving Senna Lip Sync in Stunning ($24) it's a sheer golden color that looks fabulous on. It also smells heavenly of biscotti...really it does.

It's a dual ended goody with a lipstick at one end and a sheer golden gloss at the other. Wear them together for real pow. Or do like I do and just slick the gloss on by itself.

The bonus is that it's not a gloopy gloss and it makes your lips feel smooth and soft.

Loves it!

For the eyes, I'm coveting this Chanel Ombre Essentielle in Gold ($29) since I saw it in the September Elle.

I love Chanel eye shadows because they are superb for layering, or using as just a sheer wash of color.

Apparently this gorgeous color was used at the Chanel show (for Fall 2008) by it's creative director Peter Philips.

He actually layered it all the way up to the eyebrow.

While this may be a little too dramatic for everyday use (trust me...you do not want to be that girl at the office) a great dusting on the lid would look fabulous.

A word of caution from Philips? Leave your lashes bare with the gold shadow look. Mascara combined with the gold would change the look completely...making you look more disco-y.

If you must use mascara...I'd suggest one coat of brown for a softer look.

Good to know.

Finally...the all over dusting of gold for the face.

One I love is Prescriptives Fall Dimensions for Cheeks and Eyes ($35). I mean...look at the adorable packaging for one...and the mosaic-like pattern.

It gives you a subtle and very flattering gold-ish luminescence.

Try an all over sweep of color to give your face a sweet glow (apply as you would a bronzer).

Or, you can also use each section individually...for eye shadow, blush, or get creative and use it on your lips with lip gloss or balm.

The perfect multi-tasker!

Try prescriptives.com, chanel.com, or sennacosmetics.com for more info and to find out where to purchase.

Jennifer
photos courtesy of chanel, prescriptives, and senna
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

tassi giveaway winners....

Here are the 10 winners of a lime green tassi.....

Rebecca G., Laurie L., Leane G., Michelle J., Apple M.,
Deborah S., Peggy R., Shari B., Mary B., and Melissa W..

Congratulations ladies! Your information has all been passed onto Tassi and you should be washing your face without messing with your hair in no time.

If you didn't win a Tassi, a couple more great giveaways have been announced in the past 24 hours, so keep entering our giveaways!!!

with love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

elizabeth grant giveaway for august

The fabulous people over at Elizabeth Grant have so graciously given us yet another skin care product for the monthly giveaway.

This month's offering is none other than their phenomenal BioCollasis Advanced Cellular Hydration Day ($100).

Like the fabulous eye cream that we gave away last month (natch!) it contains Torricelumn™, Elizabeth Grant’s superior moisturizing compound that keeps your skin incredibly hydrated.

We don't know what in the world those things are, but we know that anything she puts out kicks serious patootie in the skin care department.

This cream also stimulates and strengthens Collagen and Elastin fibers, helping to plump up the skin and eliminate lines and wrinkles.

And creates an environmental shield to protect skin against damaging free radicals.

The result?

Gorgeous skin that glows.

And?

One winner will receive it!

All you have to do is send us an email to beautyinreallifecontests@gmail.com with "Elizabeth Grant Giveaway" in the subject line. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address.

We will randomly select one winner August 19th at 11pm est. The winner will be announced on Wednesday the 20th!

Alright, just to clarify...One entry per person, duplicate entries will not increase your odds of winning. For this giveaway, only US residents may enter. You have from now until August 19th 11:00 PM EST to enter!

Head on over to elizabethgrant.com to find out more about this and her other fabulous products.

Good luck!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

nars eyeshadow duo

This week was actually one of the few weeks that has been bearable this Summer.

Just a gorgeous week of great breezes and blue skies. The kind of week that makes you say...now why the heck can't the whole Summer be like this?

Truth is, I hate the Summer. Mostly because I hate being hot.

I would rather be in a freezing cold room, than sweltering in a steaming one.

I cannot wait for Fall and the crisp weather. I. Love. It.

It also gives me a chance to go through my makeup and figure out what's going to get some more use and what needs a little break.

This Bohemian Gold eyeshadow duo from Nars ($32) was glorious this Summer and lovingly used along with my bronzer.

It's marvelous combination of metallic taupe and iridescent copper, treated me well and looked divine on my eyes.

For me, I'm going to give the copper a slight rest...but for the taupe...there will be no sleep. It's fabulous on and really sets off my brown eyes perfectly.

Plus, you know I'm loving the fact that it's got the word bohemian in the name.

Loves it.

Try narscosmetics.com or beauty.com to purchase or for more information.

Jennifer
photo courtesy of nars and beauty.com
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

nubar giveaway

We are having another giveaway!

Ten of our lucky readers will win a set of Nubar's Skin Essentials lotion. Each winner will receive a 2 oz. bottle of Hypnotic and a 2 oz. bottle of Delicious Pear (a $10 value).

Nubar Skin Essentials lotions are made with rich Shea-butter, contain essential oils, Vitamin A, Vitamin E and are Paraben free. Massage Skin Essentials over your entire body, concentrating on elbows, knees, and hands, or anywhere your skin feels rough or dry.

All you have to do is send us an email to beautyinreallifecontests@gmail.com with "Nubar Giveaway" in the subject line. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address*. We will randomly select 10 winners August 19th at 11pm est. The winners will be announced on Wednesday the 20th!

Alright, just to clarify...One entry per person, duplicate entries will not increase your odds of winning. For this giveaway, only US residents may enter. You have from now until August 19th 11:00 PM EST to enter!

If you want to learn more about these fabulous lotions and other great products, head on over to bynubar .com.

Good luck!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

*Please Read This: In entering this contest you are giving us permission to forward your email, name and mailing address to representatives for nubar for fulfillment and mailing of contest prize(s). If you fail to include that information we will disqualify your entry. Ten winners, chosen at random, will receive the prize mentioned. Duplicate entries will not improve your chances of winning. Giveaway sponsored by nubar. Some restrictions may apply. Open only to US residents only...sorry. Entries will be accepted through 11:00 pm on Tuesday, August 19th, 2008.

beauty deal of the week...lancome

A purchase with purchase is just the best thing ever in our book.

Just for the reason that a) you get these cute little travel sized versions of your faves and b) you get a tote/bag to stash more stuff in.

What's not to love?

This time, at Lancome counters in Bergdorf Goodman and Belk...you get this fabulous grey and burgundy bag filled with mini-sized Lancome goodies!

All for just $35 with any Lancome purchase.

That means if you buy one of their amazing mascaras and add $35, you'll get...

- A chic grey and burgundy tote
- Color Fever gloss and lipstick
- Color Design eye shadow quad
- Blush Subtil
- Hypnôse mascara
- Bi-Facil
- Absolue Premium Bx face and night cream
and
- A three piece brush set.

Amazing deal.

We love it for the sheer fact that you get great mini-me versions of products that are phenomenal.

And an adorable bag to stash them in.

All are perfect for schlepping to work and stashing away, just in case you need to touch up before heading out.

Throw in some Q-tips and you're good to go!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

maybelline new york announces 4th annual beauty of education awards

Pretty amazing actually...read on for more information...

Do you know someone who has changed lives through the power of education?

Why not change her life and nominate her for a Maybelline New York Beauty of Education Award and a $10,000 grant for her education-related cause?

You can even nominate yourself!

Maybelline New York believes education opens eyes… and doors.

For the fourth consecutive year, the company is honoring outstanding women who have made a real difference in their communities by working to support educational causes.

Each of the ten 2008 winners will be awarded a $10,000 grant earmarked for her educational cause, enjoy a trip for two to New York City for a gala awards event and have a chance to have her cause showcased in a national ad in People magazine.

"This year's award winners will be in good company," notes Serena Giovi, Vice President, Marketing, Maybelline New York. "Our past awardees are a phenomenal group of women who inspire, motivate, mentor and teach in their communities every day through education. Maybelline New York couldn't be more proud to support them. We're looking forward to seeing this year's entries."

Women like:

Oral Lee Brown of Oakland, California, a 2006 award recipient and Founder of the Oral Lee Brown Foundation. Oral Lee adopts first grade classes with the promise of a college education.

Abigail Rosin, of New York City, New York, a 2007 winner and Founder of Groove with Me, a free dance studio and after school program offering girls enrichment and a safe haven.

Dr, Marie Vazquez Morgan of Shreveport, Louisiana, a 2006 awardee who runs free seminars in her community to educate people about healthy lifestyle choices.

To learn more about the Maybelline New York Beauty of Education Awards and to nominate someone you know or yourself, visit www.maybelline.com/beautyofeducation.

Nominations are being accepted through October 10, 2008.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

thermal round brush from i|m

For the last week I have swapped out my round brush that I have been using on and off for years with a new Thermal Round Brush from i|m. It's a medium sized round brush (38mm or 1 1/2 in). The first thing I noticed was the Gel Grip handle. It's very comfortable and smooshie. Once I stopped playing with the handle I actually read the description on the box.

The Thermal Round brush has color protective bristles that are great for adding volume to medium length hairstyles. Tourmaline infused. Ceramic Color protective bristles. ProPlasmium Gel Grip™ For medium length hair, all textures. Adds volume and curl. Frizz free/antistatic.

While I don't have medium length hair, I am in the process of growing it out and it has worked really well. It smooths out my hair nicely - so nicely I have not had to go over and "touch-up" my ends with my flat iron. I have had issues with brushes causing static in the past and I have yet to run into this problem with this brush. I'm not sure if it's due to the brush or due to the fact that I use better products in my hair now than I did before. Either way, I am loving the end result.

Head on over to studioim.com to check out there entire line of hair styling products. The brush I have is $19.50 and is middle sized. They are cheaper for the smaller brushes and a few more dollars for the fatter brushes. They also have a couple boar round brushes for around the same price.

Christine
photo courtesy of studioim.com
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

tough cookies for back to school

Tough Cookies Children's Boutique in Sherman Oaks, CA is adorable. And now the store is online for those of us who don't live in the LA area.

For the first time, I, as well as Jenn, have some back to school shopping to do for our little ones. They start their Toddler Adventure in September, 2 mornings a week and a backpack is required. I am sad to see little MJ get so big so fast, but I am so excited to do some shopping for him. As soon as Jenn sent this link to me I went right over to the site and made a couple purchases.

And the hubby can't say anything because Shannon Komsky (owner of Tough Cookies) is offering up a 15% discount for our readers. Just enter "Back2School" in the discount code box. Even if your little one isn't ready for school yet, there are some cute things on there for little, little ones and if you don't have a little one at all, there are some great gift ideas if you know anyone about to have a baby.

Visit shoptoughcookies.com to get started on that back to school wardrobe! And check back there throughout August, they will be adding more items during the month.

with love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photos courtesy of shoptoughcookies.com
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

this just in...donna karan the fragrance collection at bergdorf goodman

Exclusively for customers at Bergdorf Goodman in NYC, fragrance experts Catherine Berber and Annette Williams will be on hand to complete personalized fragrance readings, which involve images, sounds, and colors to help find the scent that is yours. (editor's note: that's awesome considering it normally takes us ages at the counter doing the..."this one?"..."nah"..."this one?"..."nah"...until we're dizzy from the fumes)

The fabulous fragrances that you'll have to choose from are: Donna Karan Signature Scent, cult fave Chaos, Fuel for Men, Black Cashmere, and the four elemental scents of the Donna Karan Essence Collection.

They will only be there for these specific days and times listed:

August 13th - 4:00pm - 6:00pm
August 14th - 2:00pm - 5:00pm
August 15th - 2:00pm - 5:00pm
August 16th - 2:00pm - 5:00pm

Call 212 872 2581 for more information and to schedule an appointment.

With love (always)
Jennifer and Christine

Monday, August 11, 2008

chanel coco mademoiselle new for fall 2008

Every time we bring you something from Chanel, I feel inspired to start speaking French...even though the extent of my French begins and ends with merci.

One of my favorite fragrances in the Chanel family, Coco, is adding some new pieces to the scent family.

Coco Mademoiselle Shimmering Touch ($65) is the newest in fragrance luxury, inspired by the irrepressible spirit of the young Coco Chanel.

This is a gorgeous shimmering body gel, that leaves a delicate sheen on skin, while leaving behind the fabulous scent of Coco Mademoiselle. We're loving the to die for bottle made of glass...tell us that wouldn't look phenomenal on a dresser, vanity, or on display in your master bath?
Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum Twist and Spray ($85) Is a great for travel, or to take with you to work for when you can't get home before heading out.

Plus it looks so elegant with its white pearlized spray bottle and gold contouring. And you get two refills!

Both will be available at department and specialty stores and chanel.com starting in September 2008.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine photos courtesy of chanel
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks