beauty in real life...: 9/1/08

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

bobbi brown shimmering nudes palette

This is the description from Bobbi Brown for the palette....

This season's makeup must have, featured in Bobbi's new Shimmering Nudes Look. The Shimmering Nudes Palette offers nude shadows that flatter all complexions - a combination of high-shimmer Metallic and soft, pearlized Shimmer Wash Eye Shadows - and Espresso Eye Shadow to line eyes and add drama. Includes a dual-ended Eye Shadow/ Eye Liner Brush for professional application.

This is my description for the palette....

This palette from Bobbi Brown is AWESOME!!! Every color can stand on it's own or be used with each other to create an endless number of looks. The darkest color, Espresso, is the perfect eyeliner color. And it comes with a dual-ended brush - one for eyeshadow and one for eyeliner. I have both of these brushes in their regular size and use them daily, so I am very excited to own one brush that I can take on travel and do the job of two brushes.

The colors are fantastic...from left to right (in both pictures)

Nude Beach Metallic Eye Shadow
Nude Mist Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow
Naked Eye Shadow
Nude Glow Metallic Eye Shadow
Mica Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow
Nude Spice Metallic Eye Shadow
Espresso Eye Shadow

I use at least one color from this palette every day. Either for a base color or to add a little shimmer on top of something else. The Shimmering Nudes Palette is $50 and is a Limited Edition so I would get to clicking over at bobbibrowncosmetics.com or head on over to your nearest department store that carries Bobbi Brown - although if you buy it through the website you get 2 free samples at checkout.

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

allure + henri bendel new york = major beauty event

We totally fell in love with NYC for our brief weekend visit. Well...actually...Christine fell in love with the city...I lived in NJ for most of my entire life and visited NY often over the years.
So I've always loved it.

One thing we loved about NYC is the shopping...and the amazing array of endless stores to choose from. One of my favorite stores to visit is Bendel's.
Love it and the adorable shopping bags you get when you purchase something.

Well...for those of you who will live in NYC...or plan on visiting soon...here's something you might want to check out.

Allure Beauty Concierge at Bendel’s

Date: Thursday, October 23—Saturday, October 25

Time: 10:30 AM—7:30 PM

Location: Henri Bendel, 712 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10019

Guests will have the opportunity to book complimentary appointments with top makeup artists at participating Henri Bendel beauty counters.

Guests will be able to choose from 14 participating brands:

Chanel, Dr. Brandt, Giella, Jouer, Kate Somerville, Kevyn Aucion, Laura Mercier, M.A.C., Mally Beauty, NARS, Paula Dorf, Trish McEvoy, Yves Saint Laurent and Memoire Liquide.

For more information and to reserve your appointment head on over to... allureaccess.com/henri_bendel_concierge

Do it fast...these things tend to book up quickly.

But wait...don't go just yet...there's more!

To launch the three-day beauty extravaganza, they're totally throwing an event launch party...and you're invited!

Award Winning Beauty Shopping Party

Date: Wednesday, October 22

Time: 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M

Location: Henri Bendel, 712 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10019

Activities & Entertainment:
Allure Merchandising Director on-site mingling with guests, and offering advice on beauty trends of the season

Top makeup artists offering beauty tutorials, makeup applications, and mini-beauty treatments using award winning products

DJ spinning songs from the latest and biggest music releases of the fall

Beauty Sweepstakes

Light Fare

Fall-flavored passed hors d’oeuvres and cocktails

Deluxe Gift Bag

Event gift bag filled with beauty samples, cosmetic case, and much more with any purchase

Um...yeah...so...whatcha waiting for?

Move people!

Head on over to allureaccess.com/henri_bendel_concierge before you can't get in!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

the estee lauder sensuous widget

If you love the perfume as much as we do, why not down load the widget for your desktop, MySpace page, or Facebook page?

Some of the things that the widget can do are...

Find your Sensuous style – Take the quiz to find out if you are Casually Chic, Glitz and Glamour, Back to Nature or Oh So Romantic.

Watch Sensuous model videos – Elizabeth Hurley, Carolyn Murphy and Hilary Rhoda talk about what ‘Sensuous’ means to them, and see behind-the-scenes footage from the ad campaign.

Gain exclusive access to the Sensuous style newsfeed – Estee has partnered with Style.com, Concierge.com and Epicurious.com to offer users the latest news on fashion, travel and food.

It's guaranteed to kill at least a few minutes at work anyway...right? Why not check it out and see what all the hub-bub is about?

Head on over to sensuousis.com/widget/ and get to downloading.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

Monday, September 29, 2008

molton brown relaxing yuan zhi sleep mist

When Christine and I attended Fashion Week in NYC, we were lucky enough to receive some products from Molton Brown.

One of which was their Relaxed Traveler Kit ($60).

In it was cute little travel sized goodies...all meant to encourage a good nights sleep. We both brought it home and put it aside.

Fast forward to a couple of weeks ago when I decide on a whim to take out their Relaxing Yuan Zhi Sleep Mist (which was in the kit as a travel size) and sprayed it around my "sleep environment".

As I'm spraying, I'm loving the smell of the essential oils (lavender, bergamot, and ylang-ylang to be precise) but also thinking to myself...this is soooo not going to work and I'll have a funny story to tell Christine later.

What happened next?

Uh...totally conked out once I climbed into bed.

For real.

I've been spraying it ever since and the same results happen every time.

The other day, I'm on the phone with Christine and somehow this spray came up. Turns out that she's been spraying it too, with the exact same results.

We both can't decide if it's actually psychological, or the aromatherapy that's making us fall asleep...but either way it works.

And that'll do just fine, thank you very much.

Try moltonbrown.com for more info or to purchase.

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

matrix essentials sleek look shampoo and conditioner

Matrix Essentials Sleek Look Shampoo and Conditioner have quickly become two of my most used products.

There is a reason why it makes the list of top hair products and favorites of consumers.

They both have the ability to take my hair...you know, the hair that has all of a sudden decided to become wavy in sections....and deliver the most perfect blow-out full of body and straightness.

It's moisturizing, and really works to help control the poufiness that I sometimes get.

Plus, it has ingredients that optimize moisture levels and create a barrier against humidity.

While it doesn't weigh down my hair after repeated use, I do recommend switching it up with a purifying shampoo...or a volumizing shampoo a couple of times a week. That's what I've been doing and it works great.

Another cool thing is that the tops of the bottles have different color caps...perfect for when you're fumbling around in the shower trying to find what you need.

Something else I love is the price, it's under $20, normally right around the $15 dollar mark. It also goes on sale quite often at Ulta (right now it's buy two get one free) so you could even pick one up for even less!

That's always a good thing.

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

kiehl's aloe vera biodegradable body cleanser

Kiehl's has just released it's new Aloe Vera Biodegradable Liquid Body Cleanser($16.50).

It's a 100% biodegradable cleanser whose net profits will be going towards JPF Eco Systems...a charitable partnership between Brad Pitt (he of eternal hotness and charity devotion) and Kiehl's, in the hopes to maximize awareness of environmental sustainability.

On each bottle, is a handwritten message from the Pitt-ster himself. It reads:

Kiehl's formulated this product to minimize the impact we have on our environment. All proceeds will go to benefit green initiatives around the globe.

And he's signed it too!

So now, three things can happen when you purchase this bottle...1) you can contribute to a majorly amazing cause...2) you can use a fabulous product and not worry about it harming the environment and...3) you can swoon every time you read the package and imagine that Brad Pitt is taking a shower with you.

Or is that just us?

Head on over to kiehls.com for more info, or to purchase.

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

new mac cremesheen lipstick and lacquer

New from MAC is Cremesheen Lipstick ($14)...a collection of 14 gorgeous new colors with the creamiest of textures. You will surely go all insane over them!

From Left to Right:

Creme D'Nude - pale muted peach beige
Ravishing - clean lightly peachy coral
Speed Dial - light blue pink
Fanfare - mid-tine yellow pink
On Hold - mid-tone yellow raspberry
Speak Louder - clean poppy blue pink
Modesty - muted neutral pink
Hot Gossip - mid-tone pinky plum
Crosswires - clean pinky orange
Stay In Touch - lightly yellow brown
Brave Red - bright yellow red
Dare You - deep brown red
Party Line - red-tone plum
Hang-Up - deep berry

And...to drive our own resident nail polish fanatic even more over the edge...they've added a new nail color into the mix.

Seen above on the model...and here in the pic...is their
Cremesheen Nail Lacquer in Seasonal Peach ($11).

It's described as a creamy pale peachy pink
and it's utterly fabulous...don't you think?

Christine is literally dying over here.

All are online as we speak (er...type) at maccosmetics.com and in stores now.

With love (always)
Jennifer and Christine

Sunday, September 28, 2008

updates and how to look like a victoria's secret model

Okay...so here's the deal. We did a poll a little while ago, asking for your input on the Beauty Bytes that we were running from Total Beauty.

While we didn't get all 100 responses like we wanted, we did hear from many of you...so thank you for those that did respond.

Christine and I got together and made a decision. We've decided to only post them once a week..at the most...no more everyday. And we'll only post the ones we think you'd like to read about....or at least find entertaining.

So...if it's something you'd like to read more about, by all means click away. If you don't want to read it...not a problem either...you will totally not hurt our feelings.

So, without further ado...here's the newest beauty bit from Total Beauty. This one's about how to look as good as a Victoria's Secret Model.(Um...yeah...sure...and next week we'll give you tips on how to date George Clooney.)

Seriously though...they do provide some great tips for enhancing your best features. So without further ado...read on.

TotalBeauty.com content:

Look as Good as the Victoria's Secret Models

Behind-the-scenes tips to show off skin, hairstyles, makeup, legs and more

Self-conscious about your nose but love your eyes? Want people to focus on your amazing legs? We got the hairstylists and makeup artists responsible for A-list celebs -- from the Victoria's Secret gang to Angelina Jolie -- to dish on how to show off your best features.

Get expert tips

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

travel essentials for a beauty blogging editor

While we're not exactly world travelers, we do hit the road (or the air) from time to time.

During our trip to Fashion Week in NYC, I definitely learned a thing or two about what to bring.

Here are a few of the essentials that we brought with us to help us survive:

Miss Oops Rescue Sponge ($10) A portable deodorant stain-lifter, that helps get rid of deodorant marks, makeup powder and baby powder. Totally necessary while wearing the prerequisite black at Fashion Week.

Miss Oops Lint Roller ($6) The most portable size and the most perfect essential for getting rid of the little threads, dust, and what-nots that will inevitably get stuck to you as you move about.

Band Aid Blister Block ($7) If you are heading somewhere where major walking is involved, you need to buy this. So easy to use...it's like the size of a mini deodorant...all you do is rub it on your foot where the shoe would rub. It's utterly amazing. I wore flats and Christine wore heels and at the end of both days (where we were literally on our feet the entire day) we had absolutely no blisters. NONE.

Secret Flawless Deodorant ($5) I've said it before and I'll say it again...this stuff if fabulous. Put it on in the morning and you are odor free all day. After using this I would move around and get a whiff of the underarms...come on, don't act like you've never checked yourself during the day people...and it still smelled fresh hours after application.

Seriously.

Guess by Marciano Arm Candy Satchel ($90) I never take any of my expensive bags on trips like this...especially considering that we were going to be taking the train late at night. So out I went, purchased this and loved it.

It's hard to tell, but it's a crinkly black patent...not as shiny as patent normally is. Totally love the of-the-moment multi-straps that allowed me to carry it across my body when I tired of carrying it over my shoulder.

Extremely comfortable and large enough to handle a notepad, my Palm Centro, a camera, pens, wallet, makeup bag, etc. Chic enough to go with everything I brought with me.

Any big bag will do...just depends on what you like the most.

Well, you've heard a few of my essentials. I'd love to hear about some of your travel essentials in the comment section!

Jennifer

Saturday, September 27, 2008

weekend reads...from the beauty blog network

And here is what is going on in the world of the Beauty Blog Network.....

If you are looking for a 100% organic perfume that is free of phthalates, parabens and other toxins, then come check out what solid perfumes The Makeup Divas reviews and recommends.

Beauty Anonymous reviews La Mer The Hydration Infusion.

Jeannie from The Daily Cookie gets invited behind the scenes at Three Custom Color to chat with co-founder Chad Hayduk on fall trends as well as see how he mixes a custom lip gloss just for her!

A Touch of Blusher looks at YSL's holiday 2008 collection.

Cybelesays is giving away some of Gwen Stefani's new Harajuku Lovers fragrances. Click here to enter the contest!

Musings of a Muse looks at the new Vincent Longo Diamante Quad in Aquila with Product Photos and Swatches!.

Beauty411 shares the best online beauty shopping websites from the NovemberShopSmart by Consumer Reports magazine! Did your favorite site make the list?

Beauty Banter dishes on MAC's most fabulous Fall collection - hint: it maybe a collaboration with a MAJOR fashion house!

Beauty and Personal Grooming shares some easy DIY hair-conditioners using raw eggs.

What anti-aging skincare brand does Beauty Blogging Junkie swear by these days? Find out here!

makeup loves me gives you the skinny on sensa, magic sprinkles that help you lose weight!

Glossypink gets a site makeover and tells you about the red lipsticks that are a must for your makeup wardrobe!

Beauty Junkie in SF figured out how to hide those evil shadows under her eyes with the help of Benefit's Powderflage and its pretty fan brush.

15 Minute Beauty Fanatic has found a great natural mascara, Tarte's Lash Hugger!

Yummy411 wants to know if you're 'Politically Pretty'!

Pursebuzz.com shows you how to color your eyeshadow primer. Brights never looked brighter and whites never looked whiter! Color my primer here!

Spoiled Pretty is giving away a Junior Drake handbag worth $528. What are you waiting for? Enter today!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

the chanel smokey eye

We are adoring the Chanel Les 4 Ombres Quadra Eye Shadow in Smokey Eyes ($56)...because it just oozes sexiness.

From the sooty black shadow with the slight shimmer, to the may-jah dark gray that's just divine...everything about this quad is perfect.

With the other colors...a gorgeous white and a lighter gray...you can go from a day to a night-time eye in a wink.

It was easy to follow where to put everything...I used the white as a highlight color, the lighter grey on the lid and up to the crease, the darker grey lined both upper and lower lashlines and went up into the crease on the outside.

The pigments are definitely rich...so use a light hand at first and add more if you need it.

Pair it with their Le Crayon Kohl in Noir ($27) and their Exceptionnel de Chanel Mascara ($28) and you've got your perfect luxurious smokey eye look.

In case you're like us and totally need a visual to do this look yourself...here's a tutorial we found on You Tube that delivers a perfect evening smokey eye.

One last thing...to keep it really chic, we'd pair this eye look with a lighter lip.

If you want to stick with Chanel (and really...who wouldn't) we'd go with Chanel Glossimer in Seashell ($26) a really fabulous very light peachy-gold that's just about flattering on everyone.

Done.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of chanel
video from youtube.com

weekend reads....from total beauty

Here is the latest and greatest from our friends over at Total Beauty.....

Beauty Anonymous reviews La Mer The Hydration Infusion.

Enter to win Y.E.S. skincare products valued at $98 from Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog.

Beauty411 shares the best online beauty shopping websites from the NovemberShopSmart by Consumer Reports magazine! Did your favorite site make the list?

Monique at Beauty Girl Musings has tried Kinerase Under Eye Rescue, and is surprised at what she discovers. Find out what she thinks

Alison of the Advice Sisters is blogging about the hair, makeup and nails backstage at Fashion Week fromVera Wang to Carmen Marc Valvo, and gives readers a birds-eye view of the American Express Skybox.

The Jet Set Girls are giving away Crest Weekly Clean. Stop by and register to win!

MissWhoever YouAre reviews the forgotten Rich & Ripe lipgloss from MAC's Cult of Cherry collection for her Pucker Up Wednesday series!

The Makeup Divas reviews Make Up For Ever HD Invisible Cover Foundation and tells you why they love it.

Boutique Flair's fab finds will help you get fall's decadent dark lips. Is the power pout beautifully romantic or tragically goth? You decide!

Butterfly Diary wonders why the heck Sarah Palin is promoting a lipstick for an environmentally friendly company. Heard of the word "oxymoron"?

What anti-aging skincare brand does Beauty Blogging Junkie swear by these days? Find out here!

Latest Hair Trends Seen at the 2008 Emmy Awards-by Talking Makeup!

Meg Ryan is looking better than ever in the new movie, The Women! Find out what hair products help her create those gorgeous waves on A Mom in Red High Heels!

Glossypink has a hot new look and has an awesome Dita Von Teese photo gallery!

Spoiled Pretty is giving away a Junior Drake handbag worth $528. What are you waiting for? Enter today!

with love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

Friday, September 26, 2008

this just in...macy's is going green with their new beautiful planet shops

Direct from our inbox:

Macy’s is launching an eco-friendly space at select stores this month called Beautiful Planet.

Designed as a shop within a shop, the concept shop was built to celebrate beauty and well-being in the most natural way possible.

For the first time, Macy’s will carry well-known natural and organic brands such as Burt’s Bees, CARE by Stella McCartney, Pangea Organics, and many more.

In addition to having high standards for the natural and organic brands Macy’s carries, all elements of the shop are created using environmentally sustainable construction methods and materials.

From packaging and display fixtures to pamphlets printed on recyclable paper, this shop is truly in touch with Mother Nature.

Macy’s Beautiful Planet shops will host special events such as makeovers, facials, and giveaways, as well as seminars and information sessions on organic nutrition and other aspects of well-being.

Shop openings will occur in Herald Square – New York on 9/15, Downtown - Boston on 9/19, Garden State Plaza – Paramus, New Jersey on 9/19, Roosevelt Field - Long Island on 9/23, and Philadelphia - Center City on 9/28.

Additional shops will be opening in Novi, MI on 10/23, and Pentagon City, D.C. in early Spring 2009 and Old Orchard in Skokie, IL and Water Tower in Chicago, IL on 1/13 in early Spring 2009.

Can't wait to check these out!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of macy's

elizabeth grant giveaway for september

If you thought that we forgot about our Elizabeth Grant Giveaway for September...you are totally wrong.

This is the chance for one lucky winner to receive Elizabeth Grant Caviar Day Creme, which retails for $100!

What's the Caviar Day Creme about you ask?

Well...Caviar Day Crème contains Caviar from Canadian salmon. Caviar is rich in Omega 3 Fatty Acids, an essential nutrient for skin rejuvenation.

It also contains Torricelumn™ Elizabeth Grant's own moisturizing compound said to increase skin elasticity and firmness.

So...yeah...this stuff is good.

And did we mention that it retails for $100??!!

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 October 3rd at 11pm est. The winner will be announced on Saturday the 4th!

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 October 3rd 11:00 PM EST to enter!

Be sure to 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
photo courtesy of elizabeth grant

marc jacobs limited edition fig splash

This scent is phenomenal.

I literally sprayed it on my arm while flying through Nordies and, later on that day, Big L said the following...I love that...man you smell good.

The next day I bought it.

What's so great about it is that it manages to smell fresh
and warm at the same time...thanks to yuzu zest, Tuscan cypress, and fig.

It's like you grabbed your hubby's or boyfriends favorite cologne off of his dresser and spritzed some on yourself.

Slightly masculine while still maintaining a feminine feel.

Loving this with the inevitable layers of fall and winter...this will totally be able to hold its own.

Perfect.

You can find Marc Jacobs Limited Edition Fig Splash ($68) at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, and any other fine department stores.

Oh yeah...just an FYI...the bottle is ginormous...it's 10 ounces and it comes with a spray nozzle that you add once you open it.

Just one more reason to love it.

Jennifer
photo courtesy of nordstrom

what i would use if i was on grey's anatomy - lorac double feature

Alright, so last night's Grey's Anatomy almost had me there...totally thought for a sec that McDreamy died in the beginning...then...of course...it was a dream sequence.

After that initial freak out on my and Big L's part...yeah...totally got him into the show too...we settled in and watched the rest of the season premiere unfold.

And I silently died over McSteamy every time he was onscreen...every time.

Anyway...where I was going with this is, for a show that is about doctors and their lives at home and at work...it really needs to work on making their actors actually look like they're tired.

I mean...seriously...their characters are supposed to be working insane hours...getting little or no sleep...and they look perfect...not the least bit tired looking.

Two reasons for that.

One, it's a show and they are actors...duh...they have to look good...unless they're really going for an Emmy, then all bets are off. Two, concealer and a great makeup artist work wonders.

While I don't have a makeup artist on speed dial...I can recommend a product that'll help.

This is LORAC Double Feature ($24) and it's pure genius. Love it for the innovative concept...concealer and highlighter, plus a rollerball blender in one.

Love it even more for the fact that it makes me look all-at-once awake and refreshed...like I got those 8 hours of sleep they always tell you to get...when in reality I got like 5.

It comes in three colors...I've been using DF2 which is warm/medium. Perfect for my skin tone.

The concealer part is a stick that smoothly blends on...just make sure that you've put on your eye cream for a good slip. The highlighter stick matches the concealer perfectly and lightens any dark spots you have....plus you can use it anywhere on your face (think cheekbones, brow bones, the area around the bottom of your nose, etc...)

Adore that.

The rollerball is meant to be used after the concealer to blend it in....and...can I just tell you...it has this fabulous cooling effect that I so need many mornings...trust me.

Try sephora.com to purchase or for more info.

Jennifer
photo courtesy of sephora

Thursday, September 25, 2008

beautylash md giveaway

We have 5 Beautylash MD eyelash enhancers ($65 each) that we would like to share.

BEAUTYLASH MD will add length, thickness, strength and fullness to your lashes. Within 4 to 6 weeks you will notice a change in in the appearance, volume, texture and density of your lashes. BEAUTYLASH MD will help prevent breakage and increase flexibility so that your eyelashes can reach their full potential. BEAUTYLASH MD can also be used on eyebrows. Apply it like liquid eyeliner on the upper and/or lower eyelid on the base of the eyelashes and/or eyebrow once a day.

You know the drill....all you have to do is send us an email to beautyinreallifecontests@gmail.com with "Beautylash MD Giveaway" in the subject line. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address.

We will randomly select five winners October 1st at 11pm est. The winners will be announced on Thursday the 2nd!

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 October 1st at 11:00 PM EST to enter.

For more information on Beautylash MD, check out there website at www.beautylashmd.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 Beautylash MD 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 prizes mentioned. Duplicate entries will not improve your chances of winning. Giveaway sponsored by Beautylash MD. Some restrictions may apply. Open only to US residents only...sorry. Entries will be accepted through 11:00 pm on Wednesday, October 1st, 2008.

kerastase and john frieda

What in the world do Kerastase and John Frieda have in common you ask?

Well besides both being hair care companies - they are my perfect combination of shampoo and conditioner.

Yesterday I was in the shower surrounded by way more options than any one person should really have when it comes to washing their hair and I thought to myself....if I was ever told to pick just one shampoo and conditioner to love forever and ever which of them would I continue to use?

The answer......

Kerastase's Bain Volumative Volumizing Shampoo for Fine, Vulnerable Hair and John Frieda's Glistening Perfection Conditioner with Light Enhancers.

I know there are some people out there (who shall not be named....Jenn) that prefer to use the whole line and not mix and match their shampoos and conditioners and even styling products. But I like to mix them up and see what happens. The John Frieda conditioner I have been using on and off for years and the Kerastase shampoo fell into my lap way back at the beginning of our blog when I had no idea what to talk about, Jenn gave me the shampoo to try out and review it. So.... I sort of forgot about reviewing it. But I continue to use it in and around all the other shampoos we have been reviewing.

For my fine, straight, blonde, highlighted hair these 2 products are my perfect storm. They create great volume and shine that lasts all day long. The best part is since the John Frieda conditioner is less than $6, I don't feel so bad shelling out $32 for the shampoo. They sort of balance each other out.

If you haven't tried John Frieda, I highly recommend it. They have come out with so many new products there is bound to be something in there for you and everything is under $10 so if you don't like it you won't be too upset about it. John Frieda is available just about everywhere. And for Kerastase I would go online to kerastase-usa.com, if you take a couple minutes and become a member you get 2 samples when you purchase anything....and there are some good samples on there.

Christine
photo courtesy of johnfrieda.com
photo courtesy of kerastase-usa.com
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

hot pants giveaway winners....

Here are the five (5) lucky winners of the Hot Pants Cosmetics Op Art Mineral Shadow Collection Giveaway (retail for $80 each) with bonus Lip Lust Light Up Lip Gloss (retail for $20 each).

The winners are:

Rochelle K.,
Sydney B.,
Berta M.,
Jonnie B.,
and Karissa G.

Congratulations and keep a look out for your goodies in the mail.

And for those who weren't one of the five winners today, check back later today for details on another giveaway.....

with love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

shopsmart magazine...tips for buying beauty on the cheap

If you've never checked out ShopSmart magazine, what's stopping you?

It's from the brilliant minds that bring you Consumer Reports....and you know how handy that mag is.

They basically give you the tips to save money when you're shopping and who doesn't need those right?

Recently, they checked out more than two dozen beauty sites to find the best ones, screening out sites with bad Better Business Bureau records, no contact information, poor return policies, or high shipping fees.

Here are the results courtesy of the November 2008 issue of ShopSmart:

Best Overall Selection: Beauty.com

Shipping Free if you spend $49 or more.

Return policy 30 days on unopened products or, for certain items, if you don’t like the color. Returns cost $4.99 unless a product is damaged or incorrect or the color is wrong.

Great for Hard-to-Find Products: Beautyhabit.com

Shipping Free on orders of $100 or more; otherwise $5.95.

Return policy 14 days on most items. No returns on opened or used products.

Great for Trendy Brands: Beautyofasite.com

Shipping Free on orders over $75; otherwise $5.95 to $8.95.

Return policy 30 days. You pay for return shipping unless the product was damaged. All returns are for exchange or store credit only. There are no refunds or returns on color cosmetics.

Best Prices: Buymebeauty.com

Shipping Free on orders of $35 or more; $4.95 on orders of less than $35.

Return policy 30 days. Products must be unused and unopened, unless they are defective. You have to call or e-mail before returning products; you will also have to pay the costs of return shipping.

Great Return Policy: Cosmeticmall.com

Shipping $5.95 plus 93 cents per pound.

Return policy 30 days. You can return most products for any reason, even after they’re opened.

Great Drugstore Makeup Section: Drugstore.com

Shipping Free on your first nonprescription order of $25 or more; free on orders of $49 or more after that.

Return policy 30 days. Returns are free if a product is damaged, defective, or incorrect. Returns are free on certain products if you don’t like the color. Otherwise, products must be unopened and unused.

Great for Freebies: Sephora.com

Shipping Free on orders over $50; otherwise $5.95.

Return policy 60 days. Free return shipping. Store credit after 60 days.

Great for Organic Products: Skinbotanica.com

Shipping Free on orders over $49; otherwise $5.95.

Return policy 60 days.

Best Shipping Deal: Skin-One.com

Shipping Free.

Return policy 30 days. Product must be at least 75 percent full. You have to pay return shipping fees, and no returns are allowed of an opened product if you received a sample of it with your order.

Best Online Version of a Walk-In Store: Walgreens.com

Shipping Many items qualify for free shipping of purchases of $50 or more; otherwise $5.49 for 10 pounds or less.

Return policy 30 days.

Perfect...thanks ShopSmart!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo and info courtesy of shopsmart

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

loose lips new york - totally on our beauty radar

Just because it's officially fall, doesn't mean you have to resign yourself to shelving your powder bronzer.

I'm totally dying over this combination here from Loose Lips.

It's their Bronzer/Blush Duo in Two Fabulous ($22) and that's exactly what it is.

The bronzer delivers the best faux sun kissed glow and the blush gives you that great peachy-pink pop of color on your apples.

Delish.

The duo comes in it's own compact, complete with its own brush...that's concealed secret agent like in a compartment underneath.

I was able to try their Professional Blender Brush ($22) that's my favorite for applying both the bronzer and blush. The flat top allows for seamless blending that just polishes off the look.

It's also a great tool to use for powder foundation.

The site is pretty economical too...not only are their products reasonably priced, you can also get them delivered for $5 for flat rate shipping (in the US). Also, orders over $75 get shipped free!

Definitely a brand to check out.

Head on over to looselipsny.com for more information or to purchase.

Jennifer
photos courtesy of loose lips new york

kinerase daily defense cream spf 30

You all know by now that both Christine and myself are in the 30-something category...me being a little bit closer to the end of the category...sorry...that's me choking back tears.

Okay...all better now.

Anyway, the one thing that I always do before I leave the house is apply a moisturizer...especially one with sunscreen.

Most of my other hydrators are an SPF 15. This one in particular kicks some serious skin protecting booty against UVA and UVB rays with an SPF 30!

Kinerase Daily Defense Cream SPF 30 ($135) and Kinerase Daily Defense Lotion SPF 30 ($135) are the mac daddy of moisturizers through and through.

I mean ...come on...SPF 30??!!

They also contain the active ingredient kinetin, which is considered a powerful antioxidant that's also scientifically proven to visibly diminish the appearance of fine lines wrinkles by enhancing skin's ability to maintain 25% more moisture.

I noticed that my skin has been acting wonkier and wonkier the older I get. What used to be completely oily skin, has now turned into combination skin in the warmer months and a slight dryness in the colder seasons.

This stuff is truly fabulous.

I've been using the cream during the day for the past couple of weeks and I love it. It's definitely a little thicker than most creams I'm used to, it is made for normal to dry skin, but with the cooler weather we've been having...it's perfect.

Now my skin feels protected while I'm out and about...plus I'm noticing that my skin feels softer and glow-y....which is never a bad thing.

For more info and to purchase, try sephora.com.

Jennifer
photo courtesy of sephora

fall beauty tips from celebrity makeup artist joanna schlip

Physician's Formula celebrity makeup artist, Joanna Schlip, is delivering some tips for eyes for fall.

Considering her client list reads like a who's who of Hollywood...Ellen Pompeo, Denise Richards, Christina Applegate, and Laura Linney...just to name a few...we think she's more than qualified.

Her tips for eyes?

Eyes should be heavily smudged in shades of slate gray, burgundy, rich browns, cabernet and army green, which are all hot this season.

Adding heavy eyeliner and topping it off with black mascara will create an intensity that balances out this fall trend of romantic flushed cheeks.

Here's a tip...color in your crease. Adding a dark shade up through the crease of your eye will enhance the eyes for a more dramatic look.

First apply Physicians Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin Eye Shadow Duo.

Then line eyes with Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin Eyeliner and complete the look with several coats of Physicians Formula Plump Potion Lash Plumping & Stimulating Mascara in Ultra Black.

Be sure to pair it with her romantic flushed face for an amazing impact.

This season it’s all about a matte "eggshell" finish, contoured cheeks with subtle shiny elements on the eyes or lips. Blush is back – add a pinch of color to the apple of the cheeks for a flushed and romantic feel that is super feminine and classic.

One last tip...this one for cheeks...try mixing and matching shades to find the perfect palette. Shimmery rose hues are a great touch for color and a taupe or tan contour are perfect for a winter glow. Only use bronzers without shimmer as a contouring tool to emphasize the bone structure – it is more subtle and won’t be obvious.

Love. Her.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photos courtesy of physicians formula

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

skinn dimitri james at emmy week

SKINN Dimitri James, Tassi, and Beautylash MD were at the Celebrity Green Gifting Chateau during the 60th Primetime Emmy Week.

During the event (held at the H.M. Warner private estate September 18-20) celebs got to mingle and try out some of the products from the fabulous lines.

Here's SKINN's Dimitri James doing a complimentary mini-makeover to actress Kate Flannery from The Office.

Did she love it?

Well...here's what she had to say...you are really a true artist. Wow! You rock!

Love it!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of skinn dimitri james

5 minutes, 5 questions with philip pelusi

At Fashion Week, Philip Pelusi teamed up with Benjamin Cho to create hairstyles that personified the designer's spring collection. The aesthetic inspiration for Philip Pelusi's creations was a dichotomy between futuristic fantasy and mythological goddess.

We were able to steal him for one of our quick 5 minutes, 5 questions.....

The hair you created for the Benjamin Cho show was gorgeous. How can a woman recreate the look of the blond model's gorgeous updo at home?

First, spray Refresh Hair through out the hair and comb loosely through, then create an off-center or side-part at the crown and pull the rest of your hair back using P2 hard stuff. Then tie into a low ponytail and spilt the hair into two halves. Pull the halves under and then pull each side over the hair band and pin. Then take the ends of the hair and twist using P2 honey. Bring the ends towards the front of your face starting along the nape of your neck up towards your ears. This updo creates the perfect balance of soft and sleek. To finish spray P2's fluid hairspray.

What's your favorite hair look for the upcoming fall season?

One of my all-time favorite looks this fall is soft waves. It requires little to no heat styling and with the right hair product every woman's hair can look fabulous and healthy. For women with, I would suggest using a little Honey and letting it dry naturally. For women with finer hair, I would suggest P2's Increase and for thick hair…Decrease. Also for women who prefer brow-drying or touching up their hair with a curling iron, spray Brilliant Hair before using to protect your hair from heat damage.

What three hair products should every woman have at her fingertips?

Refresh Hair-

gives a dry clean shine and repairs in one step
it works instantly to remove up to 50 percent of hair debris sans water
easily freshens hairstyles mid-day with absolutely no buildup
it protects shine and prevents color fading for all hair types
imparts weightless body and control
protects hair from the damaging heat of flatirons or blow dryers
leaves hair and scalp smelling great with the fabulous scent of green tea and thyme

DailyHaiRx-

Cornerstone to every good hair care system. Any hair that is color or chemically treated, heat styled, sun, chlorine or well-water exposed and longer hair is damaged. All of these factors remove protein from the hair strand making it weak and dull. This weakened strand, if not protected, will continue to break.
Use every time you shampoo your hair, keeping the hair at its' full level of protein. Fills in the 'potholes' of missing protein. This strengthens the strand and protects it from further breakage.
It penetrates and resurfaces the cuticle, intermediate and deepest cortex layers with a blend of 6 different proteins to strengthen and increase elasticity.
Provides moisture for great body, tons of shine, and control.
Excellent for extremely damaged, chemically treated, or heavily heat styled hair. Hair will style and hold a style better with the proper amount of protein.

Honey

For all hair types, especially curly and frizzy. So versatile and put more on to gain a sexy second or third day look.
With silica quartz, beeswax, honey, honey extract and organic polymers.
This conditioning and molding wax refines, defines and shapes hair. Great for separating and twisted looks, making waves and defining curls.
Eliminates frizz. Non-flaking, doesn't dry. Water-soluble. Contains 2 sunscreens. Stays pliable.
Apply small amounts with the fingertips! A little goes a long, long way!

What's the one mistake that most women make when it comes to their hair?

Number one mistake made by women when it comes to their hair is that they are stubborn about using conditioner because they think it ways down their hair. However not using conditioner is damaging to your hair and causes it to look bad and feel even worse. With the nanotechnology used to create each P2 product we can now give conditioners more moisture without softening the hair. P2's Longevity keeps hair healthy and attractive, while also achieving volume. It also smoothes the hair shaft improving shine, texture and feel.

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

It's most important to look great for your AGE! Your hairstyle, hair color and overall appearance should go hand-in-hand with your age bracket. I call this the "8 Factor" which basically means that no one should try to look too young (8 years younger is the limit). Each of your life's decades has a sensual factor to it and each is great and appealing. You should accept and work with what you have especially when it comes to your hair. Real beauty always comes from within. Learn to love yourself and beauty will ensue.

Love his best piece of beauty advice. A big thank you to Mr. Pelusi for taking time out of his schedule to answer our questions. For more information about his products visit his website Tela Design Studio, or if you are in the New York area check out his salon in person. His hair care products are also available at Barneys New York.

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

emmy look....lauren conrad's messy chignon

Loved...loved....loved...Lauren Conrad's look at the Emmy's.

Gorgeous laid back California cool with a glam edge.

We love her twist on the classic chignon, complete with wavy hair and braids...messy in a fabulous way.

Here are some tips for achieving a classic chignon, from the hair experts at Pureology.

Prepare the hair with NanoWorks Luxury Shampoo and Condition for maximum shine, health, and manageability.

Next apply a cocktail of PowerDressing and ShineMax to wet hair for light hold and incredible shine. Blow dry from roots to end with a large paddle brush to give a nice straight blow dry. (Skip the paddle brush here if you'd like to replicate Lauren's look. Use your hands to blow dry and scrunch in the waves. Once dry, define the waves a bit more with a large barrel curling iron.)

Once hair is dry, apply DryShine throughout the hair for control and shine. Using a soft cushioned brush, pull all hair back into a low Ponytail and secure with elastic. To achieve a fuller crown, back brush hair at the crown area with a small teasing brush before pulling hair into a low ponytail. (At this point is when you'd part the hair in the middle and add a few haphazard loose braids. Then loosely gather your hair into the ponytail.)

Brush the ponytail smooth and wrap it around itself and secure with bobby pins. (For Lauren's look use your hands like a rake to gether your hair in the back. Still wrap it around and secure with the bobby pins. Remember to keep it looser...it's okay if some strands poke out here and there.)

Finish off with InChargePlus Firm Finishing Spray for super hold and GlossingMist for shine. Leave a few pieces out around the face to soften the look and curl them after lightly misting hair with SuperSmooth Hot Iron Protection Spray for a long lasting look.

Her own makeup artist Amy Nadine, continued with the California Chic look with all Mark products.

According to InStyle.com, she used Mark foundation, mark Glow XPert Face Shimmer in Sun Glo (I would guess like a bronzer), and mark Good Glowing Mosaic Blush in Hush Baby (on the apples).

Her lip color wasn't mentioned, but if we had to take a guess, we'd lean towards mark Gleamstick Hook Up Lip Color in either Amorous or Reflective.

Love her look.

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

Monday, September 22, 2008

emmy looks...kyra sedwick's wavy hair

We saw a lot of celebs sporting gorgeous waves on the Emmy red carpet.

Want to know how to get Kyra Sedgwick's to die for look?

Read on for the 411:

Prepare the hair with PureOlogy HydrateShampoo and Condition to give hair the moisture it needs.

Cocktail NanoGlaze and StylingLotion together and apply to damp hair for control and shine - NanoGlaze’s humidity resistant properties and shine enhancement in combination with StylingLotion’s medium hold power and shine enhancement gives the perfect combination to blow dry the hair for maximum control.

Begin blow drying hair with a medium to large round brush, directing hair away from the face.

Once the hair is dry, take 1 ½” or 2” vertical section and apply InCharge Flexible Styling Spray. Use either a 1” or 1 ½” curling iron (depending on if you want larger or tighter curls). Continue taking vertical sections and spray each section with InCharge Flexible Styling Spray before curling.

Pin each curl with a single prong metal clip.

Let hair curl for 20 minutes and remove pins. Cocktail ShineLuxe and NanoWax together and finger comb through hair to create beautiful waves.

For a smoother look on top with wave more toward the bottom, (like Tina Fey) use a cushion paddle brush through the top to create smoothness. Finish up with a final setting of InCharge Flexible Styling Spray for a touchable feel and Glossing Mist for more shine.

Finish up with some soft makeup for definition, throw on your dress, and hit the town darlings!

How-to courtesy of PureOlogy’s PureArtist’s, Angel del Solar, Wendy Belanger, Darren Pena, Mary Katherine Hecht and Sherilynn Smart.

To find out where to purchase Pureology, head on over to pureology.com.

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

emmy looks...felicity huffman's bob

When I saw her on TV last night, I loved her look immediately.

That's because a) she's sporting a new bob cut and b) hello...both Christine and I are sporting pretty much the same look...Christine's cut is actually her exact length and cut and mine is a similar cut with a tad more length.

The way to keep this bob from looking too dated, keep it chin length with some longer layering.

Just be sure to ask your stylist to keep the back a little bit shorter than the front.

This look is also really easy to style.

Just apply some volumizer to damp roots, try Pureology Pure Volume Thickening Mist for great body that lasts, and blow dry with your round brush.

Go over your hair with a flat iron...one to try is the Metropolis L-Ion Mini Wireless Iron ($150). Brilliant because it's small enough to keep in your clutch...or your assistants bag if you're lucky enough to have one...but powerful enough to straighten your hair for up to 45 minutes of straight styling time.

Separate and texturize your hair with some Aveda Control Paste...a fave for piece-y hold without weighing down your strands. Dispense some into your hands and rub it to emulsify it. Run it through your finished look to mess it up a little and provide some fabulous definition.

And you're done!

Jennifer
photo courtesy of instyle

fhi platform nano flat iron

No matter what I do or use in my hair...I still have two crazy cowlicks on either side of my temples that drive me insane.

Add into the mix the few hairs along the side of my face that have all of a sudden decided to become wavier for no apparent reason and now you know why I need a flat iron.

I had another one that over the course of time sort of lost its straightening mojo.

So when the chance came for me to try this one, I pounced on it like a hungry tiger.

All I can say now is...say hello to my (new) little friend...the FHI Platform Nano 1" Flat Iron ($130).

I'm totally bananas over it...sorry, been watching The Rachel Zoe Project on Bravo a little too much lately.

When I use this, it quickly and easily straightens my hair without making it feel fried and dry.

Just shiny, soft, and fabulous.

It also glides along smoothly without grabbing onto my hairs (thanks tourmaline treated plates!) and manages to straighten it perfectly without having to do more than one passing.

My other flat iron can't compare in the adjustable heat department either...for that one it's either on or it's off.

The FHI contains ceramic heaters that deliver adjustable heat from 140 degrees to a maximum temperature of 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Plus it heats up ultra fast.

And the reason my hair is so shiny is because of FHI's patented Nano Fuzeion Technology.

Through this technology, negative ions are suspended directly over the plates, which maximizes the ionic effect and results in even shinier and healthier hair over all.

Done and done...bananas people...ba-na-nas.

For more info, or to purchase...head on over to beautychoice.com.

They've also decided to help you out and provide some coupons, should you decide to put one of their flatirons in your cart:

$5.00 off a CHI (1") Original Flat Iron by Farouk. Use the coupon code : JA88BC at checkout.

$5.00 off a FHI (1") Platform Nano Flat Iron. Use the coupon code: bc2008 at checkout.

10% off the entire site! Use the coupon code BEAUTYCHOICE101 at checkout.

Be sure to use them before 12-31-08...that's when they expire.

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

kate somerville glow kit

Yeah...so...you don't even want to know what we did this weekend.

Trust me, totally pales in comparison to what the celebs attending the Emmy's did.

We could not imagine the preparation involved for something like this.

Considering that it's going to be seen by millions of people, you know that major prep is involved weeks, if not months in advance.

One thing that we do know is that celebs turn to facialist to the stars Kate Somerville to get their complexions camera ready.

A treat that some celebrities received before the event was complimentary White Room Signature Facials...courtesy of Kate Somerville Health Experts.

A few who took part were, Felicity Huffman (omg...love her new shorter do..did you see it last night?), Molly Sims, Rashida Jones, and Kerry Washington.

Some other clients that totally trust their skin to Somerville?

Oh...just Debra Messing, Kate Walsh, and Julia Louise Dreyfus just to mention a few more.

Something that they definitely make sure to go home with is her Glow Kit ($265). The fabulous kit contains her famous ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment (1.7 oz), Quench Hydrating Serum (1 oz),and her Deep Tissue Repair (1 oz).

In Kate's own words...

All my red carpet girls take home our GLOW KIT. Including all my best-sellers, the kit offers the three essential steps in achieving a glowing, flawless complexion: exfoliating, hydrating and repairing.

Now you can look like a star in the comfort of your own home.

Love.

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

emmy looks...eva longoria-parker

Loved Eva's sleek bob and smoked out eyes.

To do at home...

Use heat protecting spray on damp hair and spray a little volumizer at the roots. Blow dry with a round brush for a little volume and to curve the ends under.

Go over your hair with a flat iron for ultimate sleekness.

Choose a lightweight finishing product, like Pureology Dry Shine Styler...deep part your hair to one side and slick back.

For the eyes, go with grays and blacks for a gunmetal/smoky effect. Lots of mascara. Pinky cheeks and a soft pink lip.

We'll work on getting the details on what products were actually used for her fabulous look.

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

Sunday, September 21, 2008

zensual's asian lychee blossom

Zensual’s Asian Lychee Blossom($36) was picked up during Fashion Week by Mary-Kate Olsen at the Benjamin Cho show and The Women writer and producer Diane English presented these to attendees of her special event that was held at Saks.

It's said to have a slight rose smell with hints of fruitiness.

The amazing part is this...

The scent will be donating 30% of proceeds during the month of October to the Libby Ross Foundation to help raise breast cancer awareness.

It doesn't get any more fabulous than that.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

real life emmy look...red carpet hair

So, the Emmy's are on tonight and you can bet your lipgloss that we're going to have our eyes glued to our flat screens checking out the gowns, the hair, the makeup, and a couple of the guys from Grey's Anatomy.

Flipping through a recent issue of Us Weekly...love me some Us Weekly...I found their beauty section in the back with details on how to update your hair for fall.

One style that caught my eye...and immediately figured that we're guaranteed to see at least one starlet wearing it...is a teased front updo.

You can do this on straight, naturally curly, and wavy hair too.

To do, just add some volumizer to your hair at the roots while your hair is still damp...try Kerastase Spray Volumactive (a fave of mine).

Blow dry with a round brush for volume.

Take the front section of your hair, from temple to temple, and tease it with a comb...gently.

Pull it back lightly and then maneuver it into a messy chignon at the back. If your hair in the front isn't long enough to gather in the back, then use hairpins to keep the height in the front.

Take the style one step further, by adding sparkly hair accessories...like this adorable Calla Lilly Pin .

Just remember to keep it delicate and simple...maybe one or two small pins.

That's why I'm loving this photo with Reese Witherspoon from the 63rd Annual Golden Globes...she works this to perfection.

Love. This. Look.

Jennifer
photo of reese courtesy of golden globes pin photo courtesy of overstock.com

lavanila laboratories - the healthy body wash

Well...finally...it's here. Tomorrow marks the first day of fall and the weather around here is actually starting to feel like it.

For those of you who can't bear the thought of leaving Summer behind, Lavanila might just be what you're looking for. They've figured out a way to capture the scents of the season, but add some warmth so you can keep wearing it into the fall and winter.

We're dying over everything from this natural line of scented body products. Especially their fabulous body cleanser...Lavanila The Healthy Body Wash ($20).

The wash is chock-full of anti-oxidants and essential oils, which leave your skin perfectly scented and moisturized.

It's 100% natural and sulfate-free...which is essential in the drier months when your skin tends to be the most sensitive. Plus you'll find naturally-derived ingredients, like coconut oil, goji berries, willow bark extract and pomegranate, all included to help keep your skin purified and smooth all day long.

We also loving the four divine scents you can choose from:

Vanilla Coconut - gorgeous scent of young coconut, hints of monoi Tiare (a Tahitian white flower), and a warm base of Madagascar vanilla

Vanilla Grapefruit - the perfect grapefruit, fresh lime and warm cedarwood, softened in a base of rich Madagascar vanilla (my favorite)

Vanilla Blossom - orange blossom, rose, jasmine, and karo karounde petals (not quite sure what they are, but they sound really good) warmed with the subtle spiciness of nutmeg and Madagascar vanilla

They also carry a rich lotion called Body Butter, as well as fragrances and lip glosses that literally will keep you enveloped in their scent all day long.

J'adore.

Try sephora.com to purchase.

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

Saturday, September 20, 2008

try this look...hippie chic

We have to say that Mary-Kate Olsen and Sienna Miller always seem to have that I-just-rolled-out-of-bed-and-yes-my-hair-and-makeup-always-look-this-good thing down pat.

While those of us in our later 30's and 40's may not want to do the full on look...there are parts of it that you can adapt for yourself.

Especially in the hair department.

Calling it the Hippie Chic trend, Suki Duggan, celebrity hair stylist and owner of Donsuki Townhouse Salon, gives us the 411 with 3 easy-to-maintain tips.

Try a perm for volume. Not crazy curly 80's poodle perm people. A perm that just provides natural looking volume that stays day-in-and-day-out.

Tease for texture. Some teasing is always necessary darlings. Don't think beehive, think sexy bed-head.

Dirt-inspired hair colors. Aim for dirty blonde instead of platinum blonde. Have your stylist add in some lowlights...it's actually a fabulous way to keep your hair healthier too!

Add braids to the crown. Yeah...you heard us...braids are definitely in. We're not talking braids that you could find on anyone under 10 years old. Just throw in a couple of braids in the front and consider yourself hippified!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

weekly reads from the beauty blog network

Check out what our friends over at The Beauty Blog Network have been up to this week....

Lilan from The Daily Cookie brings you tips on how to look your best in just 10 minutes with CoverGirl celebrity makeup artist Molly Stern!

Beauty Anonymous reviews Shiseido Integrate Glamerous Rouge lip gloss!

Musings of a Muse reviews NARS Super Orgasm with NARS Orgasm and NARS Super Orgasm Comparison Swatches and Product Photos!

A Touch of Blusher reviews Basics Eye Palette from Bobbi Brown's holiday 2008 collection.

Beauty411 loves the new Chanel Smokey Eye Collection and tells you how to get the smokey eye look seen all over the runways at Fashion Week!

Is your hair unruly this time of year? Cybelesays recommends a few to get your strands to behave!

Beauty and Fashion Tech is giving away a C&C California T-Shirt in Size Medium!

Girl Gloss is having a contest for Size Small C&C California T-shirt!

Beauty Junkie in SF found out that others have a love/hate relationship with Urban Decay's Primer Potion! YouTube is a crazy thing.

See what hair products The Makeup Divas uses, recommends and reviews, to keep hair in tip top condition.

Rouge Deluxe has the scoop on Shu Uemura's Holiday collection!

If you think you have to spend TONS of money for quality products, think again! Beauty Banter uncovers the 5 most fabulous drugstore body scrubs for under 10 bucks!

Makeup Moxie dishes on the new Cargo PlantLove Collection.

makeup loves me takes you behind the scenes and backstage at baby phat!

Spoiled Pretty is hosting a fashtastic giveaway. Enter to win products from Urban Decay's fall 2008 collection...plus a sinfully chic Ananas clutch to put them in!!!

Worried about aging lips? 15 Minute Beauty Fanatic has a great new anti-aging lip product, coming soon to your drugstore!

Pursebuzz.com does an in depth review of the Givenchy Phenomen’Eyes Mascara. Is it love or bust?

with love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

weekend reads from total beauty

Happy Weekend to you all!

Enjoy some light weekend reading with our friends from Total Beauty....

Viva Woman tells you why you should not steam your face too often.

Enter now to win a Imprint On My Heart custom pendant valued at $400 from Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog.

Beauty411 loves the new Chanel Smokey Eye Collection and tells you how to get the smokey eye look seen all over the runways at Fashion Week!

Beauty Anonymous reviews Shiseido Integrate Glamerous Rouge lip gloss!

Visit A Mom in Red High Heels for your chance to WIN a $110 worth of Avon anti-aging products and Bond Girl 007 fragrance! Hurry! Deadline is September 22.

Boutique Flair reviews DDF Protect And Correct UV Moisturizer SPF 15!

The Beauty Alchemistloves Victoria's Secret Very Sexy Dare Fragrance

The Anti Hair Slave has fallen in love with Missoni Acqua

The Makeup Divas reviews Tarte Lips Ahoy!

Fabulous Over Forty reviews the new designer makeup lines at Target.

My interview with Project Runway's Nina Garcia-by Talking Makeup!

Daily Dose of Coffee takes a look at Too Faced Tricks of the Trade kit. Find out if it's worth the money and whether or not you'll actually use the products in it.

Glossypink tells you which posh products Victoria Beckham can't live without!

Spoiled Pretty is hosting a fashtastic giveaway. Enter to win products from Urban Decay's fall 2008 collection...plus a sinfully chic Ananas clutch to put them in!!!

with love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

Friday, September 19, 2008

real life emmy look...tina fey

You have to love Tina Fey.

Her show 30 Rock is a favorite here at b.i.r.l. and we adored her dead-on impersonation of Sarah Palin on SNL last weekend.

She's been nominated for an Emmy in the Best Lead Actress category and we totally couldn't agree more.

While we won't know what she's wearing until Sunday, InStyle gave a suggestion that they think would suit her well.

A gorgeous beaded dress from Monique Lhuillier.

We agree...but if she did wear it, they would probably make it gown length as it is the Emmy's and not the more laid-back Golden Globes.

If she was to wear this divine creation...and being gunmetal eyes are hot this fall...I'd love to see them play up hers in soft shades of gray.

Some metallic gray's I love?

CoverGirl CG Eyeslicks Gel Eyecolor in Midnight Metal ($6)
I love it because it's super easy to create a fabulous smudgy look with this pencil. Just draw a line along your upper and lower lashes, making the outer edge slightly thicker. Take your finger, a Q-Tip, or a brush and smudge out the line a little. Done.

Tarte Pressed Shadow in Luuucy I'm Home ($17). Love the name and the adorable purple packaging. The color is a gorgeous deep blue-gray with a subtle shimmer. Perfect for doing the ultimate gunmetal eye.

L'Oreal Eye Shadow Single in Pure Silver ($5). Another great option, that's very wallet friendly in the of-the-moment shimmery gray. Slightly lighter in color, this would be great all over the lid.

While you could go with the dark lip that's so in this season, I'd pair the gunmetal eyes with a nude-ish lip and just a hint of color on the cheeks!

Perfect.

Jennifer
photos of tina courtesy of abc.com
photo of dress by instyle
all other photos courtesy of drugstore.com, ulta.com, and beauty.com

secret sport challenge webinar with olympic medalists!

You know all of those webinars that we talk about? The ones that we attend via the internet and phone and obtain all of the juicy info that we then pass on to you?

Well, here's your chance to get in on the action.

What: Secret Sport Challenge Webinar with Nastia Liukin and Shawn Johnson. Hear from these two world class gymnasts as they announce the Secret Sport Challenge and an opportunity to win an athletic scholarship!

When: Monday, September 22^nd

Time: 5pm Eastern

RSVP: http://webcast.streamlogics.com/audience/index.asp?eventid=91515748

So be sure to head over and RSVP as soon as you can!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photos courtesy of gymblog

beauty buys...l'oreal paris true match foundation

Am I horrible or what?

I never brought you the promised posting on the makeup that we used at our L'Oreal Feria Hair Coloring Party.

It's just so wrong to leave you in major suspense like that.

I promise that we will do something pretty cool to make up for it, but for now I'd like to bring you one of the products that we used that delivered amazing results.

L'Oreal Paris True Match Foundation.

Considering you can buy this full price for a little over $10 and on sale for even less...it's a phenomenal buy.

And it's won awards from InStyle and Allure as best inexpensive and best drugstore foundation.

I used it on the girls at the party and we all immediately noticed how it went on so smoothly and evenly. It also provided a glow, thanks to teeny-tiny light reflecting particles. The shades we used matched their skin color perfectly too.

Even though both had gorgeous skin to start with, this actually gave them the sought after my-skin-only-better look that...really...doesn't everyone want?

One of the girls even commented that she liked it so much it might just replace her fave department store foundation that she's used for years.

So yeah...it's fabulous.

Try lorealparisusa.com for more info.

Jennifer
photo courtesy of l'oreal
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

Thursday, September 18, 2008

hot pants giveaway....

We are having another giveaway.....

This week five (5) lucky winners will win a Hot Pants Cosmetics Op Art Mineral Shadow Collection (retail for $80 each).

Kit includes:
Eyeshadows in golden brown, pearlescent beige, smokey silver, dark chocolate, rosy pink, holographic brown/green,Clear Eye Base, and 2 makeup brushes all in a red feather bag.

And as if that wasn't enough we are also going to throw in Lip Lust Light Up Lip Gloss (retail for $20 each).

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

We will randomly select five winners September 24th at 11pm est. The winners will be announced on Thursday the 25th!

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 24th at 11:00 PM EST to enter.

For more information on Hot Pants Cosmetics, check out there website at www.hotpantscosmetics.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 Hot Pants Cosmetics 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 prizes mentioned. Duplicate entries will not improve your chances of winning. Giveaway sponsored by Hot Pants Cosmetics. Some restrictions may apply. Open only to US residents only...sorry. Entries will be accepted through 11:00 pm on Wednesday, September 24th, 2008.

5 minutes, 5 questions with Pamela Pekerman

During Fashion Week, we were able to interview Accessories Fashion Expert Pamela Pekerman, who is a VH1 Correspondent and HSN's resident Bag Guru. Pamela Pekerman is the go-to for all things bags. In 2005 she launched the award-winning BAGTRENDS.com to share her bag obsession with stylish women around the world. She also serves as a handbag correspondent for AOL's Stylelist.com and trend forecaster for WSA Today, and has been featured on VH-1's The Fabulous Life, Better TV, CN8, NBC6, HSN,Cosmopolitan, the Wall St. Journal, LUCKY and E! Radio.

1. What looks are you loving for fall and winter?

I love pencil skirts because they are classic and work for girls with nice curves. I'm also loving all the berry colors including strawberry which is such a burst of fun for fall.

2. What one bag should be in every woman's closet?

Every woman should have a structured satchel in a timeless color like black, gray, navy or chocolate brown. This bag should not be too big - it should have at least one outer pocket to hold a Metrocard and cell or small lipstick. It should have at least 3 inner pockets to keep you organized. And the top handles need to be just long enough to go over you shoulder - but not too long, about a 5in drop. This can be your work bag, because it has organization. It can be your day-night because you didn't go too big in size. And it can even be your go-to errands bag on weekends. It's classic in shape and color so you'll enjoy it for a long time.

3. Name three classic bags that you always turn to season after season.

Rebecca Minkoff "Morning After Mini"; Givenchy "Little Black Patent Purse"; Carlos Falchi simple "Exotic Skin Tote" in pewter.

4. Quick, what's in your makeup bag right now?

Chanel eyes/lips/cheek set, MAC lipstick in glaze, Victoria Secret blush from event I just went to - I love it.

5. What was the best piece of fashion/beauty advice that you ever received?

For fashion, my mother taught me the value of getting items tailored so they fit just right for you. I fix almost everything I buy, especially skirts and pants because I'm short.
Beauty I'm still learning!! I'm kind of a beauty idiot. Last year I learned about corrector and concealer from a friend who's a makeup artist. It has changed my life!

I think Jenn and I would both love to borrow her for a day and have her pick out accessories and bags for us. A big 'thank you' to Pamela Pekerman for taking time to answer our questions!

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

hemloq giveaway winners...

I am happy to report we have found homes for all 5 Hemloq Citrus Scrubs!

The proud new owners are:
Paula W.,
Sean C.,
Sydney B.,
Melany G.,
and Bridgett Z.

Thank you to everyone who entered. I think we might be having another giveaway this week so check back later today.

with love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

amazing deal for a fabulous cause at the ted gibson salon

How bummed were we, when we found out that we weren't going to get a chance to meet Ted Gibson along with the other Total Beauty bloggers at Fashion week?

Yeah...majorly bummed.

Well, here's an amazing chance to have the hair guru himself do your hair for less than half of his cost and have the proceeds go to a great cause!

On Sunday September 21^st, Ted Gibson Salon will be hosting its 3^rd annual cut-a-thon to benefit Carbon Zero, and offset the company’s carbon dioxide emissions.

Money raised from the event will be donated to Carbon Zero to plant trees.

Love that.

Ted Gibson Salon has already raised approximately $10,000 for the cause since it began its annual cut-a-thon two years ago in its quest to negate the salon’s carbon emissions. When you consider the cost of a cut in NYC is crazy expensive these days...especially in such a famous salon..this is an amazing opportunity to get a fabulous cut or color!

Here's the deets:

Where: the ted gibson salon 184 Fifth Avenue, 2^nd Floor, NYC

When: September 21^st from 10am – 5pm

What: Hairdressers from NYC’s ted gibson salon will be volunteering their time for $50 cuts...the regular price of a cut is normally $95!

No appointments necessary if you're using any of the other hairstylists.

If you'd rather have Ted Gibson himself work his magic on your mane...you'll need to make an appointment. But, get this, a haircut with Gibson is normally a mind-blowing $950...just for this event you will pay only $300.

Still definitely a splurge, but considering this genius has also tended to the gorgeous tresses of Angelina Jolie, Gabrielle Union, Anne Hathaway, Joy Bryant, Claire Danes, Keira Knightley, Jessica Alba, Diane Sawyer, Renee Zellweger and Amerie...uh...yeah...he's a-mazing and worth giving up your daily Starbucks for a few months...don't you think?

Want to update your hue?

You can actually get single process color and partial highlights for only: $75-$100 normally $100-$400!

Come on...$75-$100 for those too??!!

And this is why we need to move to NYC...stat!

Remember, if you want to secure a cut with Ted, be sure to call the salon at 212.633.633 ASAP!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

bioelements...a favorite on the set of kath & kim

One thing we've always noted is the fact that Selma Blair has the most gorgeous skin.

Considering she's an actress and her face literally gets plastered with makeup day in and day out, you'd think that her skin would pay the price.

But, from what we can tell...that is so not the case.

What surprised both of us was the fact that makeup artists on the Hollywood sets, stock up on great skincare as well as cosmetics.

One line used on the set of Selma's new show, Kath and Kim, is Bioelements.

A fave of ours here too.

I mean...Christine just loves their Instant Emollient. In case you need a reminder, Instant Emollient is an ultra-rich moisture stick for lips that's laced with soothing Bulgarian rose and chamomile aromatherapy oils and vitamin E.

The cool part is that you can also use it around the eyes as well.

Among the favorites of department head Dionne Smith is Equalizer, a hydrating tonic of rose, chamomile and geranium oils when they're on set. And she protects their skin during long outdoor shoots with Sun Diffusing Protector, a PABA-free sunscreen/moisturizer which also contains lavender and sage oils.

Not surprisingly, she also sets Selma and Molly up at home...to consistently keep their skin in tip-top shape.

Her product of choice?
Oxygen Cocktail, an oxygen boosting serum for skin, to replenish their skin and maintain a luminous glow.

Be on the lookout for a review of the Oxygen Cocktail...I mean...how can we not want to try it?

If you're interested in trying any of these out, head on over to bioelements.com for more info or to find out where to purchase.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photos courtesy of bioelements

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

the ultimate splurge...bobbi brown limited-edition luxe brush collection

If you're in the mood for the ultimate Bobbi Brown splurge, why not pre-order her new Limited-Edition Luxe Brush Collection ($650)?

The brushes are hand crafted, have ebony handles, and white gold tops.

It comes with all that you see here, including a limited-edition platinum leather case to keep them in.

Considering that this is as close as we'll get to seeing these, if you do decide to order one of these for yourself could you tell us what they're like?

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of neimanmarcus.com

why you need this mousse...sebastian professional whipped creme

I'm seriously in love with this product.

We were first introduced to this at a Sebastian cocktail party held during Fashion Week a couple of weekends ago.

In the Cellar Bar at the Bryant Park Hotel, we were able to munch on tiny appetizers while learning about the new revamping of Sebastian.

See, this isn't the old Sebastian of yesteryear. It's been updated and coolified (totally made that word up) through rigorous research and many attempts at the drawing board.

The result is chic new packaging and some new and improved products.

One product that I am so in love with is Sebastian Professional Whipped Creme ($19).

It's not at all like the mousses (mices? meeces?) from the 80's...it's light as air and conditions as it holds....I mean...when you dispense it into your hand, it truly looks like whipped cream.

Consider the possibilities of a conditioning mousse.

Think oodles of volume for a sleek blowout, or divine curls that won't frizz.

No crunching. No stickiness.

Just gorgeous hair that looks that way from beginning to end.

Now do you see why I love this stuff?

Try sebastianprofessional.com for more info or to find out where to purchase.

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

real life beauty buzzword...niacin

A buzzword that I've been hearing about a lot lately is Niacin.

It's the active form of Vitamin B3 and it's being used in all things skincare related.

Said to help seriously sun-damaged skin, dull skin, age spots, and UV-induced DNA damage...it's appearing to be a miracle in a bottle.

A couple of companies that are putting out products with this ingredient are DDF and Nia.

While I won't disclose any names here, I know someone who recently had her eyes "done" and her plastic surgen recommended this and only this to maintain her work.

If that isn't enough for you, consider this....I've seen this specific product mentioned in no less than 3 big-time magazines as the product to try.

Nia 24 Eye Repair Complex ($65) at dermstore.com

Jennifer
photo courtesy of dermstore.com

chanel haute chocolat

If you are looking for something to completely sell out in like 5 seconds...look no further than Chanel's new nail colour offering Haute Chocolat ($20)

For one, so loving the name.

Second, its color is described as a chic brown with shimmery golden flecks...they had us at shimmery.

Lastly, the name was chosen in a contest that Seventeen magazine and Chanel ingeniously ran last year.

Seventeen readers were given the challenge to come up with a name and the inspiration behind it.

The winning name and inspiration was conceived by 19 year old Amy Gonzo.

In her own words, here's how she came up with the idea:

I gathered ideas for the Seventeen nail contest from my own memories of the holidays. I wanted to combine the comfort and warmth of the season with the chic elegance that is indicative of Chanel.

How amazing is that?

Amy will be officially announced as the winner in the October 2008 issue of Seventeen (which hit newsstands September 16th).

Haute Chocolat, unfortunately, will not be at counters and online (at chanel.com) until October.

So mark those calendars and get your friendly neighborhood sales associate on speed dial darlings.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of chanel.com

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

this just in...ellen will be the newest face of covergirl

File this under cool news, Ellen DeGeneres will be CoverGirl's newest face!

CoverGirl just confirmed this fact today and so did Ellen on her show.

The reason why they picked her?

Ellen is the quintessential CoverGirl. She is smart, confident, natural, and beautiful from the inside out. Her beauty and down-to-earth personality fit perfectly with what CoverGirl represents. We look forward to our partnership - stay tuned for more news - Esi Eggleston Bracey, vice president and general manager, Global Cosmetics, Procter & Gamble Beauty.

Look for her ads to appear in January 2009.

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

kate somerville oil free moisturizer...the review

Afraid to moisturize - but want to fight those lines? Sensitive or prone to breakouts? Finally - an oil-free moisturizer that delivers RESULTS!

It was as if Kate Somerville was talking directly to me and said, "Hey Christine, I made this for you. I know you have had a rough time finding the right moisturizer, but I think you might fall in love with this one."

Ummm.......I did. I fell head over heels in love with this little jar of miracles. Before this moisturizer, there have been a few that worked fine, but nothing that addressed the oily issue I have, as well as, the sensitive skin issue. After using this I rarely get oily and if I do it's much later in the day and just around my nose a little bit.

There are all kinds of goodies in it too. It has an Algae-based Pepha-Tight® that helps to tone and hydrate, while also working to help fight wrinkles. There are also sea plant extracts in there to help collagen production, and an unique blend of ingredients to help absorb oil and reflect light. This moisturizer is ideal for oily, sensitive, and combination skin types.

This moisturizer is $65 and available at katesomerville.com, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and QVC.

My husband doesn't know it yet but I will be purchasing this when my sample runs out. I might have to space out my Nordstrom purchases though. If I buy this and the Chanel mascara I mentioned earlier today at the same time I might be disowned.....but at least I'll look good.

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

exceptionnel de chanel mascara ...the review

As Jenn mentioned, we were both crazy excited to hear about Chanel's new mascara. We were even more excited to try it out, then Jenn was less excited and I was beside myself with excitement when it was Smoky Brun (brown). She tried it out and it was too light for her and perfect for me.

I love this mascara and you all know how I feel about mascara. I wear it every day and won't leave the house without it and I even wear it when I'm home all day. That is how you can tell if I'm feeling ill - I won't bother to put it on. And you all know I am dedicated to CoverGirl Lash Blast and I still wear it most days. But this mascara gives it a serious run for it's money.

The Exceptionnel de Chanel Mascara ($28) has a crazy six-sided brush that I was skeptical of, but it really does make a difference when applying it. It is meant to be help out and provide a smudge-free and clump-proof application. It took me a few tries to get use to it. So the first few applications I had clumps and mascara everywhere, but now that I am use to it, I love it.

I had it on the other day and my husband made a comment that my eyelashes really stood out and looked good, without me prompting him. I am dying to try the Smoky Violine (purple)....I know it's purple, but I have green eyes and purple makes green greener. I think it would be dark enough, it wouldn't look to crazy or might look good layered on top of another mascara for a hint of color. There are 4 colors available, Smoky Marine (blue), Smoky Violine, Smoky Brun, and Smoky Noir (black).

All four are now available on chanel.com any department store that carries Chanel. I have been waiting for September, knowing this is when the 3 other colors were to be released. And I will be heading over to Nordstroms or Neimans to pick up the purple. Or at least try it out at the counter and be able to see it in person.

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

philosophy new scents for the season

You know how much we love fall and cannot wait for the crispness of the season...these are totally getting us in the mood.

Even if we have to hang out in front of the open fridge to get that crisp, cool feeling.

You know...because it still feels like August outside.

Anywho...before we know it...fall will be here and so will Halloween...one of our favorite holidays.

We really enjoy giving out candy to the trick-or-treaters even though we end up eating up all the extra candy.

Let's hear it for bite sized Snickers!

Philosophy is offering some amazing scents for the season and holiday ahead. And even though they smell delicious, they don't contain one single calorie.

Zilch.

The crazy adorable Halloween House up there, includes 6 oz. bottles of black licorice, caramel apple and pumpkin spice muffin high foaming shampoo, shower gel and bubble baths. All for only $30!

If you'd rather buy the individual scents, they come in 16 oz. bottles for the bath. The scents that are leaving us drooling are...black licorice, caramel apple, and (our fave) pumpkin spice muffin...um...yummy!

Each one is only $16.

Head on over to philosophy.com to purchase or for more info.

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

Monday, September 15, 2008

vote for your favorite feria transformation

You remember that Feria party that we had a while back? The one featuring the fabulous makeovers of Stayce and Fintress? Well, now here's your chance to see the before and afters again and give us the chance to go to Paris.

The best part of this whole thing was seeing Stayce and Fintress walk out of my house with big smiles on their faces, loving their new makeup and hair.

That was a prize in and of itself.

TotalBeauty.com content:

Feria Colour Parties: Vote for Your Favorite, Sponsored by Feria

Feria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Colour

L'Oréal Paris has launched a new ultra-conditioning and extra shimmering version of its popular Féria Multi-Faceted Shimmering Colour with 3X highlights. More hydrating and conditioning than ever, new Féria transformed the hair of these Total Beauty bloggers and readers. Some dramatic and some subtle, the overall results left our testers' hair shimmery and soft. What do you think? Use our rating system to tell us who has the best hair color transformation.

See photos

vert eco-chic boutique

Ever since visiting California last May, I've been dying to head back there and do some major shopping.

One store that I'd love to check out is Vert.

Vert is an eco-chic beauty and lifestyle boutique located in Venice Beach on Abbot Kinney Blvd.

Renata Helfman is the owner and founder who opened the store after turning her lifestyle green when she realized there wasn't a home for all her new favorite high end organic beauty brands.

The cool news is that you don't have to buy a plane ticket experience Vert.

The reason?

Vert is launching their ecommerce site in October!

The amazing site will include:

-complimentary personal shopping services
-makeup lessons
-amazing holiday and corporate gifting
-news on exciting in store events

Now you can experience all that Vert has to offer, from the comfort of your laptop or pc.

Pretty cool huh?

So be sure to bookmark vertlosangeles.com and head on over there for the launch in October!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photos courtesy of vert

aveda fashion week trend report...rodarte

The hair for the Rodarte was nothing short of fabulous.

Odile Gilbert was the lead stylist on call for Aveda and delivered cool chic perfection.

Her inpiration was out of this world...literally. In Gilbert's own words....

The inspiration is an alien; hair is wrapped in circular motions into a brain-like bun and covered with a gold or silver leaf. The idea was to create something very pure, simple and clean. To create this look, I approached the hair like origami—carefully folding and wrapping hair in circular motions and securing tightly in place.

Here's the step-by-step instructions on how to try this one for yourself:

Step 1: Separate hair into top and bottom sections leaving a wide strip from the front to mid-way down the head.

Step 2: Separate bottom section into three parts. Beginning with the middle section, dampen hair with water, spray with Aveda Air Control Hair Spray, and comb through. Secure into a tight pony tail approximately two inches above the nape of the neck. Wrap hair into a bun using a circular motion and secure in place with pins.

Step 3: Take bottom left section of hair to work with; dampen with water, spray with Air Control Hair Spray and brush through, then comb using a fine tooth comb to smooth. Wrap hair around the bun tightly in a circular motion and secure with pins. Re-spray with Air Control Hair Spray to seal fly-aways. Repeat with bottom right section of hair.

Step 4: Separate remaining top section of hair in half. Dampen bottom half with water, spray with Air Control Hair Spray and comb through. Divide again into two more sections—right and left. One at a time, wrap each section around the bun in a circular motion, securing in place with pins. The bun becomes larger and wider with each section of hair added.

Step 5: Take remaining top strip of hair; dampen, spray with Air Control Hair Spray and comb through to smooth. Comb hair back and directly over bun, securing in place with pins and Air Control Hair Spray. Tuck ends into the bun and seal with pins.

Step 6: Coat bun with Brilliant Retexturizing Gel. Place a gold (for blondes) or silver (for brunettes) leaf over hair to cover the bun. Smooth in place with fingers and spray with Air Control Hair Spra

Odile also gives a little tip on how to get this look on your own...the tightly-wrapped, circular bun takes a bit of patience but can be adapted to create a very elegant, beautiful look.

So just take some parts and add your own twist...maybe incorporate some of the metallic influences like pins in gold and/or silver and add it to your tight bun.

Use your imagination and go for it!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

practice your voting skills with burt's bees

Burt's Bees is having their Election Day today on New York and online. They want clothing labels to add a new symbol that lets the consumer (you) know when a product has at least 95% natural ingredients.

Vote for 'natural' and you also vote for the new symbol. If you are lucky enough to be in the New York area swing by and vote and pick up some samples of Burt's Bees products. You will also be entered into contests and you could win the cute shirt pictured left.

Here are all the details.....

Many personal care products on the market positioning products as 'natural' may contain potentially harmful ingredients.

That's why Burt's Bees and Julianne Moore are giving consumers the opportunity to cast their votes at Burt's Bees' Election Day in New York City.

On Burt's Bees' Voting Day (today September 15), a vote for natural is also a vote for the Natural Seal, helping make natural a clear choice after all. To ensure that the best candidate comes out on top, "green" actress Julianne Moore will be on hand to cast the first vote for natural at the Burt's Bees Voting Booth at Merchants' Gate at Columbus Circle in NYC.

Other NYC voters can learn more about 'natural', cast their vote and receive samples of Burt's Bees products.

If you missed the voting today in NYC, don't fret.

You can also cast your vote for natural at www.votefornatural.com. There you can learn more about the movement as well as win prizes, including a limited-edition C&C California for Burt's Bees T-Shirt....this will be going on until October 31, 2008.

Each vote represents a conscious choice to use natural products over the potentially harmful synthetic alternatives as well as gain support for the new Natural Seal.

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

lorac natural performance foundation

Beauty companies are finally starting to get it.

They're starting to get the fact that it would be amazing if foundations would not only be seen as something to cover-up the skin, but also seen as a way to improve the skin.

That's what so genius about this product.

It's a foundation that also contains ingredients that will help to improve your skin over time.

LORAC Natural Performance Foundation ($35) contains vitamins that work as anti-oxidents, anti-inflammatories, and other ingredients that provide natural cell-regenerating properties.

Plus it literally feels like you have nothing long, and also lasts all day.

No wonder why it's featured in the October Marie Claire as one of the new offerings in anti-aging foundations.

I put it on in the morning, with my fave foundation brush...making sure to get around my nose and under the eyes...my skin has slight discoloration in those two areas.

It's the perfect my-skin-only-better base with a subtle luminescent quality that's fabulous...and lasts without worrying about having to touch up later.

I'll follow up with whatever blush I'm feeling, add a swipe of mascara and I'm done.

Perfect.

Try loraccosmetics.com and sephora.com to buy or for more info.

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

giorgio armani cosmetics lip wax

It's the most unique product in the most of-the-moment color...deep berry red.

That's why I love Giorgio Armani Cosmetics Lip Wax in 06 Deep Chianti ($26).

It has the ability to go from a slight film of color, that literally feels as if you have nothing on...to a deeper tone using a lip brush.

My favorite use is this...first apply a dab of lip balm to soften the lips and provide a hydrated base.

Then take your finger and dab the lip wax onto the middle of your bottom lip and spread it outward.

Repeat with the top.

Almost stain like, the result is perfect bee-stung lips that I adore.

Love.

Jennifer
photo courtesy of giorgio armani cosmetics
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

Sunday, September 14, 2008

beauty buys under $10....burt's bees lip balms

We so love a great bargain and these are it.

Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm ($3) and Burt's Bees Lip Balm with Honey ($3 shown) are perfect natural alternatives to other balms on the market.

They work to hydrate your lips and make them feel that way all day.

Not greasy or goopy at all, they just work perfectly under lip colors or on their own for a natural subtle shine.

Using beeswax and various natural ingredients (think honey, coconut oil, and sunflower seed oil...just to name a few) you actually feel good about using it.

Plus you can pick them up anywhere now-a-days, most local drugstores and grocery stores carry them...or you can buy them online at burtsbees.com and drugstore.com.

It doesn't get much easier that that.

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

chanel unveils new retail environments at saks flagship

Christine and I have been on serious probation, when it comes to hitting the beauty counters in our fave stores.

Like ultra serious probation.

For me, it pretty much happened a few months ago when Big L and I walked into my favorite cosmetics department and...I kid you not...everyone said Hi Jennifer to me as we passed through.

Everyone.

I was sooooo busted.

And put on probation.

Of course I've broken it...what Big L doesn't know, won't hurt him.

That was totally between us here...got that?

Anyway...the point here is that Chanel has recently unveiled two new retail environments at Saks Fifth Avenue’s New York Flagship store.

The newly renovated Fragrance and Beauté counter will offer consumers an exclusive environment to experience the world of Chanel in an innovative way. Chanel Ready to Wear will be available in the newly designed third floor boutique along with an expanded Accessories area on the first floor.

Yeah...we would be in major trouble if we ever ventured there...trust that.

The contemporary 850 sq. foot counter draws clients into the world of Chanel with dedicated areas for fragrance, makeup and skincare. The fragrance area invites customers into the world of Chanel fragrance heritage with the debut of the patented Olfactive Bar designed by Chanel deputy perfumer Christopher Sheldrake.

Utilizing a new patented ceramic blotter system, the table houses the 43 fragrance concentrates encompassing the entire range of Chanel perfumery. An on-site fragrance expert will offer clients an interactive olfactive journey through the house’s extensive fragrance offerings. An illuminated manuscript, the pages of which turn via a motion detecting sensor, will showcase the history of Chanel fragrance, from historical images of Coco Chanel to the house’s renowned master perfumers.

The location will also debut the Les Exclusifs de Chanel fragrance collection, including a global exclusive for Beige, the latest addition to collection of exclusive fragrances.

Beige, is described as a sensual outburst of hawthorn, freesia and frangipani, along with shimmering hints of honey, was interpreted by Chanel Master Perfumer Jacques Polge. Additionally, the rare 225 ml, 450 ml and 900 ml bottles of the iconic Nº5 parfums will also be available, previously only obtainable by special order

This is the thing that is making us giddy with excitement...

An extensive makeup and skincare area offers customers a luxurious environment to explore the products with the assistance of a Chanel Beauté expert.

An oversized panel mirror alternates from a display of graphic quotes and videos, offering an unexpected and playful intrigue to passersby.

Eight generously sized makeup artist stations invite the customer to interact with the products while a VIP consultation room features a luxurious area for a personalized consultation or private makeup application.

The consultation room also features the signature “Miroir Lumiere” light box mirror, utilizing modifiable light technology exclusive to Chanel to mimic natural light from day to evening in spring, summer and winter seasons.

Also customers will have the opportunity to experience and learn about Chanel's best-selling skincare products within the dedicated skincare area. Two seated skincare consultation areas allow clients to discover the Chanel Précision skincare range and diagnose their individual needs.

Continuing with the whole boutique feel...the innovative black and white microcrystal storefront will feature a rotated glass box showcasing Chanel signature mannequins draped in the season’s runway looks. Within the space, diaphanous glass planes layer the space and present the runway collections by theme.

A 10’ high video monitor will feature the Paris runway shows so customers can fully experience the current collection.

Les Exclusifs Beige 200 ml bottle retails for $190, No. 5 parfums 225 ml, 450 ml and 900 ml retail for $1,700, $2,350 and $3,200 respectively. Both fragrances will be available exclusively Saks Fifth Avenue in New York City in September 2008.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photos courtesy of chanel

bausch & lomb and susan g. komen for the cure

October is breast cancer awareness month and Baush & Lomb is starting it off with an amazing giveaway.

From now until October 31, 2008, any visitor who downloads a coupon for ReNu MultiPlus® contact lens solution, will be automatically entered to win one of these gorgeous Swarovski Elements limited edition contact lens cases.

No purchase is necessary to enter and all winners (40 total!) will be notified by November 15, 2008!

The absolute best part is that Bausch & Lomb will donate $1 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure for every coupon that is redeemed at a local mass retailer.

This year, Bausch & Lomb has committed to raise up to $400,000, with a minimum guaranteed donation of $300,000, for the organization through sales of its ReNu MultiPlus® solution and its online campaign at ReNuCares.com

So, if you're a contact lens wearer or know someone who is...be sure to head on over to ReNuCares.com to download a coupon and help the cause.

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

Saturday, September 13, 2008

aveda fashion week trend report...3.1 philip lim

Loving the polished effect at 3.1 Philip Lim.

The gorgeous hair reflected the feel of the clothes perfectly.

The inspiration for Odile Gilbert, the lead hair stylist for the show, was Eva Peron meets Juliet Lewis...basically giving the ’40s a more a modern feel and shape.

This is why we are dying to grow out our hair.

Here's how they achieved the look for the women:

Step 1:Create a deep side part and section hair off behind the ear. Spray with Air Control Hair Spray and brush through to smooth.

Step 2: Create a high pony tail right above the right ear and secure in place with an elastic.

Step 3: Divide pony in half and roll each section around a “rat” (small hair sponge), creating a cylinder-like shape. Hold in place with pins and spray with Air Control Hair Spray.

Step 4: Repeat with other section of pony tail, creating a bow-like shape.

Step 5: Apply a small amount of Aveda Light Elements Defining Whip throughout remaining section of hair on other side of the head. Spray with Air Control Hair Spray before wrapping hair down and around the back of the head along the hair line, and up around the base of the pony tail. Secure with pins throughout to keep in place.

Get the Look/Step-by-Step for men:

Step 1: Spray hair with water and comb through to moisten.
Step 2: Mix Aveda Men Pure-formance Pomade and Men Pure-formance Grooming Clay together in hands and comb throughout hair from top to bottom.

Step 3: Create a severe, deep side part and smooth using a fine tooth comb.

Sigh...let's just gaze into the eyes of this cutie to the right here...

And we're back.

Loving the finished look for the women and silently dying over the bag...seriously.

Head on over to aveda.com to purchase the products used...fyi the Aveda Light Elements Defining Whip is pure genius....trust us on that.

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

new york fashion week spring 2009....ottavia et emma launch party

Silently dying over here at the fact that this was yet another event that we would have loved to attended.

Gotta have a chat with that mail carrier.

Anyway...Ottavia et Emma...who only has the most gorgeous clothes I've seen around lately...recently had a launch party at the Bryant Park Hotel Cellar Bar.

An amazing array of celebs attended, including Joan Allen (pictured), Emma Roberts, Vera wang, and others.

There was food, drink, and all things fashion!

Guests also received an amazing gift bag worth $600!

Inside were gifts from...

Elizabeth Grant Gold Cream
Ottavia et Emma 100% Organic Cotton tote bag
Ottavia et Emma 100% Organic Cotton longsleeved black logo tees.
Promotions from Gotham Lasik & Gotham Skincare
Small personal bottles of the Chambord
O.P.I had specially made colors by Chambord too (le sigh)

Oh well...there's always next year!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photos courtesy of elizabeth grant and ottavia et emma

weekend reads....from total beauty

If your beloved is STILL busy with football here are some more great blogs from Total Beauty....don't you love football season? I do just not all day long, all weekend long....

Vampy lips and sultry eyes are all the rave this Fall season! Roselyn from Makeup Makes Me Happy shows you how to achieve this sultry look in this spicy makeup tutorial, using items from MAC's latest limited edition collection, Cult of Cherry.

The Makeup Divas reviews Smashbox Breast Cancer Awareness Eye & Lip Palettes.

Boutique Flair's fab finds will give you gorgeously gray eyes!

Beauty Anonymous reviews FlowerbyKenzo Eau de Parfum Nomad Spray from Kenzo 2008 Ryoko Collection.

Alison of the Advice Sisters is , including sneak peek, up-close-and-personal reports of latest hair and makeup trends that you'll want to be wearing in Spring 2009, plus photos of a Total Beauty event--and backstge beauty

Frappelattes highlights some of her favorite Fall 2008 makeup trends.

Beauty Tyrant has discovered Botox breastlift and it's 7 other uses!. You may be surprised at some of the finds here.

Fabulous Over Forty is comparing four different mascaras on her eyes. See which one comes out the winner!

Enter to win a $500 personal coaching session from a certified personal coach via phone from Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog.

Monique at Beauty Girl Musings gushes about her absolute favorite eye makeup remover. Find out what it is!

Beauty Junkie in SF fell in love with Kate Somerville's new Oil-Free Moisturizer and you will too!

Beauty's SPOT visits New York City's most beautiful spot, Estee Lauder's personal office.

Looking for a new Fall haircut? Check out Victoria Beckham's chic new pixie cut on A Mom in Red High Heels. Do you have the confidence to pull it off?

Henna at Canadian Beauty tells you how to get rid of acne with H20 Plus!

Beauty Blogging Junkie reports from the circus that is Betsey Johnson's backstage! What wild and makeup graced the runway? Find out here.

Fifty-Cent Head gives a quite honest review of Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab's Grindhouse scent, Gwyenth - the 10th part of a series.

See Glossypink's favorite backstage experience at Fashion Week!

Jenn at Bare Budget Beauty creates her own home-made shadow shields!

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

weekend reads...from the beauty blog network

Good morning and Happy Saturday to you all...if your beloved is busy with football this weekend here is the perfect opportunity to check out some other fabulous blogs....

Beauty Anonymous reviews FlowerbyKenzo Eau de Parfum Nomad Spray from Kenzo 2008 Ryoko Collection.

The Makeup Divas reviews Smashbox Breast Cancer Awareness Eye & Lip Palettes.

Vampy lips and sultry eyes are all the rave this Fall season! Roselyn from Makeup Makes Me Happy shows you how to achieve this sultry look in this spicy makeup tutorial, using items from MAC's latest limited edition collection, Cult of Cherry.

A Touch of Blusher previews Prescriptives' holiday 2008 Colorscope Palette.

The Muse reviews Cargo's new Color Eyeshadow Palette in Tahiti featuring Swatches, Product Photos, and Several Looks using this brand new palette!

Lilan from The Daily Cookie turns her friends' hair from drab to fab with the new L'Oreal Feria!

StyleBell presents Redken's only Guido and his Fall Hair Trends with amazing hair style images!

Beauty Junkie in SF is giving away to one lucky reader a T-Shirt from C&C California and Burt's Bees, in support of the Vote Natural Campaign. Check it out!

Beauty Banter gives YOU an exclusive step-by-step tutorial on how to achieve the Fall face! Loaded with pictures and products!

Cybelesayspickstheir favorite eye shadow colors for the season. Did your favorite brands make it in?

Rouge Deluxe reviews Kenzo's Eau de Fleur perfumes!

15 Minute Beauty Fanatic tries out L'Oreal's Bare Naturale Mascara, and loves the long lush lashes it creates!

CanadianBeauty.com tells you about Lancome's newest fragrance, Magnifique - discover its notes and how it fits into Lancome's counter this fall.

Beyond Beauty Basics gets inside the tents of NY Fashion Week and a backstage exclusive interview with makeup artist icon, Kabuki!

Find out who marina from makeup loves me met at new york fashion week!

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

Friday, September 12, 2008

new york fashion week spring 2009....sneak peek at the philip lim gift bag

How jealous are we, that this is what greeted those who attended the Philip Lim show at New York Fashion Week?

Uh...can you say to die?

Included in an elusive Philip Lim organic tote (not pictured) were these fabulous products:

Aveda Dry Remedy Shampoo

Aveda Dry Remedy Moisturizing Treatment Masque

Nars Duo Eyeshadow in Persepolis

Nars Blush in Penny Lane

Nars Lip Gloss in Chihuahua

Nars Eyeliner Pencil in Kitty

Nars Perfecting Powdered Sheets

Nars Mini Body Glow

The value of each gift bag was $250!!

We're sure that our invite got lost in the mail...at least that's what we're telling everyone.

With love (always),

Jennifer and Christine

photo courtesy of aveda

proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

philip b rejuvenating oil

I'm a typical Leo through and through...totally fanatical about my hair.

I'll condition daily and deep condition periodically, to ensure that it's always on top of its game.

But I do get lazy with the deep conditioning, I have to admit.

This is fabulous for me because you can use it from 1 to 4 times a month...if your hair is on the normal to dry side...or once a week if your hair is really dry.

I've used this as an overnight treatment and am banoodles over the results that I got.

Shiny, bouncy, and rejuvenated hair that looks completely gorgeous.

They give you several options on how to apply it depending on your hair type...for my hair, even though it's not really in the damaged department...I decided to leave it on overnight.

I applied two droppers full to my dry hair from the midshaft down and combed it through.

My hair definitely resembled an oil slick once I was done...and I worried that it would be hard to shampoo out in the morning.

But it wasn't. I used a clarifying shampoo and it came out easily. I followed up with my regular conditioner and did not use a volumizing product. My hair was still full of body and looked great!

My cuticles even looked divine because I rubbed the extra oil into them!

To top it off, this is actually on the low end for a product of this type...it's only $30. Considering that the bottle is a full two ounces, contains natural ingredients, and smells so amazing...it could have easily cost a lot more.

Try philipb.com for more information or to purchase.

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

mac and the white house

Being in the DC area we are close to all the action going on with our country and those who are in the running to run it. It was a hot topic of discussion at Fashion Week once people found out we lived in the area. So this new release from MAC Cosmetics comes at great timing....

It’s the beginning of September, and all eyes are on New York Fashion Week and the upcoming Presidential Elections. So, this season M·A·C Cosmetics is bringing Election Day to New York Fashion Week. As the leading makeup authority and official makeup sponsor of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2009, M·A·C Cosmetics is backstage at over 85 shows, creating and defining the beauty looks for the upcoming season. And with Election Day fast approaching and the nation’s focus on a change in leadership, M·A·C uses the backstage at FashionWeek as its platform to weigh in on what they envision the key White House beauty trends to be for some of Washington’s top female contenders. November 4th is just around the corner, so M·A·C. takes its first beauty poll backstage and let’s the fashionistas decide.

“Washington power women are in the spotlight and have to look and feel their best not only in person, but also on television. In a world of High Definition television that shows every facial imperfection, makeup has to be flawless and refined, which can be incredibly challenging”, says Gordon Espinet, Vice President of Makeup Artistry, M·A·C Cosmetics Worldwide. “Red Lipstick is a great option as it commands attention and communicates a desire to be taken seriously. Blotting Powder is a must especially under hot lights as it keeps oil at bay and prevents shine. Mascara opens and defines the eyes, and M·A·C’s Mineralize Skinfinish Natural is an essential as it gives a smooth, even finish without a cakey look.”

M·A·C’s talented Senior Artists created various beauty looks they feel will appeal to the women who are immersed in this hot political season and that can easily take them from a debate to an evening gala – no matter what skin tone or hair colour you have – M·A·C has colours that will help make you look like the belle of the ball.

All of these looks can easily be translated for those of us who won't frequently visit the Oval office in the next four years but still look fabulous day or night.

You can click on any of the pictures for a closer look and to see what makeup the artists used.

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

**And a side note...all of the the pictures where arranged in random order, we are politically neutral here at Beauty in Real Life.

new york fashion week spring 2009....hair by avon at iodice

Avon Advance Techniques lead stylists Allen Ruiz and Anthony Barrow together with Brazilian designer,Iodice created the hair look for the Spring 2009 show at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

Inspiration for the Look: The look mirrors the Iodice collection, which was inspired by the mysterious lost city of Atlantis. The hair was created to evoke the image of a beautiful aquatic woman emerging from the water.

How to get the look:

Step 1: Use a tail comb to create a clean, triangular section of hair at the crown of the head. Use a clip to keep this section separate from the rest of the hair.

Step 2: Apply a generous amount of Avon Advance Techniques Extra Hold Hairspray to the sides.

Step 3: Layer Avon Advance Techniques Shaping Gel over the hair spray previously applied to the sides and use a fine-tooth comb to comb through

Step 4: Next, use a wide tooth comb to create lines and movement in the sides of the hair leaving the appearance they were just run through and swept back naturally with your fingers

Step 5: Use a blow dryer and diffuser attachment to "set" the sides of the hair with the hair spray/gel combination previously applied

Step 6: Release triangle section of hair at the crown. Using your wide-tooth comb, brush this section of hair back, away from the face and "set" with Avon Advance Techniques Extra Hold Hairspray

Step 7: Finally, pull remaining hair back into a loose pony tail and secure with an elastic band.

For a real life application, if you aren't feeling the tight sides and the look in the back....just take the components that you do like that go from there. For instance, if you love the tighter look of the sides, do that all over the front and gather your hair in the back in a low pony. Think a sleeker look.

Or you could do the teasing at the crown and gather into a low pony...no slicked back sides. Or just do a loose pony.

Try avon.com to purchase these products, or to contact your local Avon representative.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

what your dry skin needs...gabriel couzian highly nourishing body cream

How excited am I that fall is right around the corner and the weather is already starting to get cooler and cooler.

Love it.

Now it's time to start thinking about changing up your lighter moisturizer for one that's richer and more hydrating.

Something that will keep the dreaded scaly legs at bay.

I'm dying over this body cream by Gabriel Couzian ($65). It's rich, but doesn't leave a greasy film behind...or take forever to absorb into your skin.

It contains olive oil, sweet almond oil, beeswax, shea butter, chamomile, aloe vera, and glycerin to provide long-term therapy over repeated use...but you'll notice an immediate difference right away.

Soft, smooth, and delicately scented skin that lasts...fabulous.

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

Thursday, September 11, 2008

this just in...tarek abbas to appear at the lancome boutique in nyc

Direct from the official press release...

Lancôme National Makeup Artist Tarek Abbas is headlining A Day of Beauty event at the Lancôme Boutique in New York on Friday, September 19^th.

Tarek, for those of you who don’t know him, is the go-to makeup artist for Lancôme’s spokespeople.

Elettra Wiedemann appeared on The Late Show with David Letterman for the first time this summer and Tarek gave her a gorgeous, natural-looking glow (see photo bottom left).

Actress Juliette Binoche came to NY earlier this year to promote Lancôme’s new Rénergie R.A.R.E. skincare line and Tarek made her look absolutely radiant. He recently did Selena Breed’s makeup when she was our special guest at the Oscillation presentation this summer. Other famous faces that Tarek has worked his makeup magic on include Eva Longoria, Miranda Kerr, Goldie Hawn and Christina Milian

You can even sign up for one-on-one appointments or attend a master class with Tarek to learn his tips and tricks.

If interested, call 212.362.4858 to book an appointment. Do it quick because reservations are limited!

Here is the official Tarek schedule for that day. Each session has a $75 reservation fee that is fully redeemable in Lancome products:

10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Master Class with Tarek.

1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. One-on-ones with Tarek.

5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Master Class with Tarek.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photos courtesy of lancome

givenchy phenomen'eyes and ian wright...remixing art

To coincide with the launch of Givenchy's Phenomen'Eyes Mascara...that new mascara with the really cool looking round brush...Parfums Givenchy commissioned British artist Ian Wright to create a work of art using approximately 5,000 of the Phenomen'Eyes brushes.

Taking only 12 days to complete...the result was 5045 Lashes, a work that symbolizes the "remix" of a fashion-inspired beauty collection with art.

It's also the coolest thing we've seen...I mean...come on....it's a 45' record!

Using the unique spherical brush shape and memories of childhood music spun on a record player, the inspiration was born.

“5045 Lashes” was unveiled last night at the Christopher Henry Gallery on 127 Elizabeth Street and will now appear throughout New York City in pop-up galleries this fall...Oct 10th and 11th at Sephora SoHo and Oct 17th and 18th at Sephora Union Square.

Why not plan a little detour to Sephora if you're planning on being in the area?

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

altru artistry...the review

Nestled with a medley of rich, warm spices and creamy vanilla with hints of black tea. The Artistry collection pays homage to the richness of Moroccan art and culture, and its beautifully complex, yet tremendously sophisticated influence on human history, modern art, cuisine and design.

Doesn't that make you want to go run to Starbucks and get a Venti Chai? Or is it just me?

I love this candle. When we received this in the mail, there wasn't even hesitation on Jenn's part to know this had my name all over it. I love Chai and all things related to Chai. If you have never tried one, Fall is the perfect time to get acquainted with it. But, I digress....

This candle's scent is Masala Chai (and now it becomes clear why I practically took it from Jenn and lit it in my living room before she even told me where it came from). And when my husband came home from work and saw it he wanted to light it and then asked me if we had any Chai mix in the house (I got him hooked on them as well), but that is how amazing this candle is.

It has a burn time of 70 hours. But there have been several times when I have come into the living room and looked to see if it was lit because it totally smelled like it was and it wasn't. The scent is not too overpowering, but we do have it in a pretty open room.

It is a soy blend wax candle filled in a hammered copper vessel with a delicate golden lining. it is really pretty and looks great out on display. And it is a good sized candle.

Regardless of how wonderful it is, it's going to set you back $55 but all proceeds from the Altru collection support the In a Perfect World children's foundation. So, you spend a little but you are also helping out a good cause.

For more information and to view other products and scents visit altrubygamillah.com. You can also purchase them at Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Henri Bendel, ABC Carpet & Home and Anthropologie.

I totally need a Chai now...

Christine
photo courtsey of altrubygamillah.com
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

hemloq giveaway

This week we have a great giveaway with Hemloq Citrus Scrub ($28 each). We have 5 of these Citrus Scrubs who need a new home.

Hemloq's Scrub is a creamy formula that provides a gentler feeling exfoliation. Hemloq's unique blend infuses jojoba beads, green tea extracts and chamomile to provide a soothing polishing action. It is great for drier skin types or for those who want a softer exfoliation. The Citrus Scrub is Paraben, Sulfate & Cruelty Free.

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

We will randomly select five winners September 17th at 11pm est. The winners will be announced on Thursday the 18th!

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 17th at 11:00 PM EST to enter.

For more information on Hemloq, check out there website at hemloq.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 Hemloq 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 prizes mentioned. Duplicate entries will not improve your chances of winning. Giveaway sponsored by Hemloq. Some restrictions may apply. Open only to US residents only...sorry. Entries will be accepted through 11:00 pm on Wednesday, September 17th, 2008.

anti-aging strategy....clinique superdefense spf 25 age defense moisturizer

One thing that you can always say about Clinique is that they have some pretty amazing skincare that doesn't cost you an arm and a leg.

Case in point, their newest offering Superdefense SPF 25 Age Defense Moisturizer ($43).

It's available in three different skin types...very dry to dry, dry combination, and combination oily to oily.

Perfect...that way, no one is left out here.

Among other ingredients, the moisturizer contains:

red microalgae extract - an ingredient which helps to counteract the negative visible effects of stress

padina pavonica extract - which helps to prevent the first signs of aging, by improving the amount of natural calcium the skin is able to absorb

octisalate and avobenzone - together they provide a full-spectrum approach to UVA/UVB protection with a SPF 25

Because we are all about anti-aging here, we're dying to try and get our hands on this for review.

We'll let you know what we think.

Available now at clinique.com and Clinique counters nationwide.

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

new york fashion week spring 2009....verrier

The makeup look of Verrier was created by MAC Lead Makeup Artist Gregory Arlt.

We would have loved to have been behind the scenes for this one!

The inspiration behind it is a dolly from the attic. Think Gretel from Hansel and Gretel who knows a little bit more than she did before she went into the woods.

All MAC products were used here.

For the face, Strobe Cream was massaged into the face with Face and Body Foundation applied sheerly to even out the skin tone. Dame and Well Dressed Powder Blush and Seedy Pearl Eye Shadow were blended to create a healthy glow on the apples of the cheeks.

Moving on to eyes, Seedy Pearl Eyeshadow was again used and brushed across the lid. Phloof! Eye Shadow was used as a highlighter under the eyebrow and along the side of the eye and down the bridge of the nose. Reflects Transparent Teal was popped on the eye as a dot on the finger and pressed onto the lid. Quarry Eye Shadow was lightly applied to the crease of the lid. Plushblack Plush Lash Mascara was applied to the tips of the lashes.

The lips definitely stand out like crazy. For that they used Girl About Town and Pink Nouveau Lipstick blended together and brushed onto the lips. An application of Clear Pro Longwear Gloss Coat was added on top.

Here's the finished look on the Verrier runway...

To make it a little more wearable for daytime office, or night out with your hubby or friends...we'd lighten up the blush.

Try going with just the Dame or the Well Dressed Powder Blush applied lightly to the cheeks for just a pop of pinky color.

Lighten up the lips a little by using a lighter pinkish gloss...try Tinted Lip Conditioner SPF 15 in Petting Pink, or maybe try MAC Tinted Lipglass in Under Age or Florabundance.

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

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

skinn giveaway winners...

We have the 10 winners of the Wet Lips Super Shine Gloss (2 glosses each).Each winner will be receiving 2 Wet Lips Super Shine Gloss ($25 retail value). These beautiful diamond looking glosses may be worn alone or over lipstick for a sexy, shimmery pout. They are packed with Vitamin E, Soy and Aloe to soothe even the driest of lips.

The proud new owners of these glosses are:
Ashleigh M.
Rebecca Z.
Sheena J.
Debbie L.
Regina S.
Laney K.
Stephanie C.
Laura S.
Georganna B.
Kim M.

We have sent your information over to SKINN and you should be receiving your glosses soon.

Stay tuned this week, we may still have a couple more giveaways laying around here.

with love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

pure winners

Here are the winners of the Pureology Dandruff Scalp Cure($60 retail value per set)....

The 10 lucky winners are:
Laura S.
Amy S.
Dami H.
Melanie D.
Linda S.
Michelle R.
Joi E.
Michele P.
Claire M.
Katie B.

You all will be receiving both the shampoo and conditioner from Pureology ScalpCure. They are an extra-gentle, anti-dandruff shampoo and conditioner that work by handling your dandruff and help to stop flaking and itching, but they also work to keep your color strong.

We will be mailing those out to you soon. So keep an eye out in the mail.

Congratulations!

with love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

the women opening september 12th

Considering that each of us are married to men who would rather jab pencils in their eyes than see a chick flick...we are so going to have to see this movie without them

And that is absolutely fine with us.

The Women is a new movie that is coming out this Friday, September 12th. It stars an all female cast, featuring the likes of Annette Benning, Meg Ryan, Eva Mendes, Debra Messing, Jada Pinkett Smith, Cloris Leachman, Bette Midler, and Candice Bergen.

Hello...we are so there.

The cool part is that we've been given the chance to review the movie on our blog. So stay tuned for us to make like the female version of Ebert and Roeper.

Until then, enjoy this trailer that we found on youtube.com.

Oh...and also try dove.com for more trailers, a great behind the scenes mini-documentary called The Women Behind the Women, and a chance to win free tickets to a showing of the movie.

With love (always),
Jennfer and Christine

secret flawless + bling = one happy lady

Now, this is our kind of giveaway!

I mean, who doesn't love Secret? We're big fans of their Clinical Strength...it really keeps you feeling and smelling fresh.

What's not to love about that?

When we both attended Fashion Week, we each brought a sample sized version of their new Secret Flawless...we each had bought one at Target.

Considering that we were walking non-stop and it wasn't exactly cool weather up there, we still felt fresh at the end of the day. And no stinky underarm smells (sorry for that...gross...but necessary for us to tell you how great it works).

In fact, as the day progressed, all we caught were whiffs of the fabulous scent. Perfect for us because we weren't able to stay in the city and were literally going from early morning to late night!

So it's absolutely a must buy.

As if an amazing product wasn't enough, now they're doing something even better...Secret Flawless is giving away 10 one-carat flawless diamonds (worth $15,000 each) and many other great prizes including gift cards, movie tickets and lots of Flawless deodorant.

All you have to do is visit your local retailer where Secret is sold and buy specially marked Flawless Invisible Solid or Conditioning Solid. Make sure that you do this fast though, these will go fast!

Hidden at the bottom of your deodorant, you might find fake bling that you turn in for the real thing! (Or you can take the secret code off the back off your packaging and enter that code online to see if you have won!)

For more information, visit secret.com/Diamonds.do.

The Sweepstakes already began, but you have until June 30, 2009 at 11:59 p.m. ET!

For official rules, visit secretdiamondgiveaway.com.

So...head on over to your nearest CVS, Target, or any other mass market retailer that carries Secret and get to buying!

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

kerastase noctogenist serum nuit

My love for Kerastase knows no bounds.

I've even gotten Christine addicted to the stuff...believe me, it's not a hard stretch because their products are a-mazing.

At the end of the summer, after highlighting, swimming, hanging out in the sun, and then finally coloring it over with a semi-permanent color a couple of weeks ago...left it feeling like it needed to be revived.

I used this at night a couple of times a week and loved the results. Shiny and soft hair that didn't feel weighed down.

You don't need a lot either...my hair is a little bit longer than chin lengh and all I needed was an amount a tiny bit bigger than the size of a hazelnut.

I ran it through my hair from the mid-shaft on down, at night on my dry hair. You can also use it on towel-dried hair if you'd prefer.

I'd wash my hair and condition in the morning as usual and noticed a difference in how soft it felt from the first time that I used it.

My hair was gloriously and touchably fabulous...and not heavy at all..that's thanks to a combo of light conditioners like amino acids, silk proteins, and a Vitamin E derivative.

I used the Noctogenist Serum Nuit ($65) which is their overnight treatment for thick hair.

There's also one for fine hair called Noctogenist Voile Nuit that's a spray on formula. If I can wrestle that out of Christine's hands, I'd love to try that one as well.

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

new york fashion week spring 2009....ruffian

Let's just say that we had an amazing time backstage at the Ruffian show.

Not only was everyone super nice, they were also so awesomely willing to let us take photos and give us info on everything.

Loved it!

We met with the lead makeup artist, James Kaliardos (that's actually John Stapleton applying his masterful makeup skills to the model) who gave us the inspiration for the look of the show....a prep girl who went out west, a west coast hippie vibe.

Translation...think laid back chic and easy to replicate at home.

James didn't want to go for a base, but did do some slight concealing here and there to even everything out. The look is meant to be a natural one.

Moving onto the eyes, they applied the Gold Dark Pigment from the lid to the brow bone and winged it out toward the temple. Finish off with Coal Black Pro Lash Mascara applied to curled lashes.

For the cheeks they used Redhead Mineralize Skinfinish blended onto cheek bones. Under the cheek bones for contour they applied Sculpt Sculpting Powder. As a highlight they patted Pearl Cream Color Base on the tops of the cheek bones.

For the look of innocence, they pressed Not So Shy Lipstain onto the lips softly for the perfect pout.

It's the most gorgeous wearable look, that paired fabulously with the clothes.

So loving the look here.

For the hair, Bumble and Bumble lead stylist Neil Moody continued with the yes-you-can-do-this-at-home-no-really-you-can look, by using Bumble and Bumble products and braids to achieve the loose easy waves seen on the runways.

First, using Bumble and Bumble Prep Spray and Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray, they applied it to the hair for texture and to create a beachy like feel.

The then braided the hair in sections...careful not to go all the way to the roots.

After braiding, they sprayed on either Does It All Styling Spray or Spray De Mode (depending on the type of hair each model had) and then pressed each braid with a flat iron to set it.

After, for the finished look, the stylists just took out the braids and ran their fingers through the hair to loosen them up. The key part here is to leave the braids in long enough, but not too long...the crimped look is not what they were going for here.

Moody even gave us an easy tip on how to do this at home for our shorter hair, make fewer sections of hair when you braid it.

Simple, easy, amazing...we're so in love with him now.

For MAC products try maccosmetics.com, for Bumble and Bumble try bumbleandbumble.com to purchase or to find a salon that carries it.

We'd also like to thank Amy from MAC, Neil Moody, James Kaliardos, John Stapleton, Tim from Bumble and Bumble, the models, and the rest of the amazing individuals we had the pleasure to be around. You guys are purely fabulous.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo of the ruffian runway shot courtesy of nymag.com

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

redken volumizing mousse winners!

Due to a crazy typo, we've selected the winners earlier than some of you were anticipating. We've already heard from four, but we still need to hear from the rest...we need 10 winners total!

So here are the winners that we still haven't heard from. If you haven't given us your full name and addresses yet, please send them in asap! We will only give you 24 hours more.

As for the typo, we totally apologize for any confusion that it may have caused you.

Here are the names of the six remaining winners (who we have not heard from yet) of a Redken Full Frame 07 Protective Volumizing Mousse, courtesy of Vogue and Redken!

Deb
Kaylee8
bionicbeauty
carrie
judybrittle
cdmtx

Please get to your emails and send us your full names and addresses to mommyjpresents@gmail.com, within the next 24 hours.

Understand that we will be forwarding these on to representatives for both Vogue and Redken, but that's just so they can mail you your mousse!

Congrats again and send us those emails ASAP!

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

this just in...huge promotion at macy's herald square

Huge event at the Macy's Herald Square in NYC later on today!

Appearing there will be designer Tommy Hiliger, Gossip Girl actor Ed Westwick, Singer Gavin DeGraw, Hilfiger fragrance model Tommy Dunn, GQ Magazine, and Macys.

What will be taking place is a GQ and Hilfiger Celebrity Charity Motorcycle Ride and musical performance by Gavin DeGraw at Macy’s Herald Square.

The event will kick off today, September 9, at 6:30 PM.

A motorcade will take over the streets of Manhattan with a charity motorcycle ride to benefit The Tommy Hilfiger Corporate Foundation.

The motorcade will travel from Lincoln Center on 64^th Street between Columbus and Amsterdam, go through Central Park South south, down Fifth Avenue and across 57th Street, south on Broadway, and finish at Macy’s Herald Square (Broadway between 34^th and 35^th Streets).

The celebration will begin at the finish line, with a special appearance by Gossip Girl’s Ed Westwick, Tommy Hilfiger, Gavin DeGraw, Tommy Dunn and 10 riders from the GQ Motorcade.

The party moves inside with a cocktail reception and customer autograph signing with Gavin DeGraw in the Tommy Shop on the 2^nd floor. Tommy Hilfiger unveils Macy’s exclusive men’s fall fashions and Hilfiger, the new fragrance for men.

There will be photo opportunities and an exclusive performance by platinum selling singer/songwriter Gavin DeGraw on Macy's main floor.

So if you're in NYC, head on over and check it out!

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of tommy hilfiger

the craziness that is fashion week

I was going to talk about something beauty related today, but I'd rather talk about my experience this weekend and then get back to all things beauty later. Jenn will also be putting up a post on her take of Fashion Week.

This was my first time to NYC so my goals for the weekend were to see a couple celebrities, meet some fellow bloggers, people watch like it was going out of style, and just take the whole experience in. And I accomplished all of the above.

Saturday didn't start off well for me - my hair looked absolutely crazy, Jenn said it wasn't that bad and tried to help me out, but it was crazy. Then we left for the train and stepped outside, it went from crazy to frizzball crazy.

A big thank you to whichever of the tropical storms/hurricanes that was. It was humid and muggy and just icky and it was all reflected in my hair. Luckily I wasn't the only one afflicted, but still I had to walk around with it all day.

We went to the Total Beauty suite and they had Massimo there doing touch ups. Thank you, thank you, thank you Total Beauty. After being touched up, we headed over to the tents where my hair instantly fell and frizzed again.

It was amazing to be in there. It was overwhelming at first but amazing. The people watching in there is out of this world.

Later we were out walking around trying to find a cute place for lunch. A couple of girls were out asking if we wanted our hair, makeup and nails done.

Ummm......yes please.

Turns out the Style Network had a bus all tricked out. I got my makeup redone - I'm pretty sure I left whatever makeup that was still on my face back in the tents. And then I had my hair touched up. It wasn't styled exactly how I would have done it, but it had volume and no frizz so I wasn't complaining.

After lunch we headed back to Byrant Park for some more people watching and the Havaianas booth. My goal for Saturday was to get a pair of Havaianas flips. I heard they were there and I wasn't leaving until I got a pair.

I have a bit of a flips problem. I would tell you how many I have but I honestly do not know, I'll just say a lot. So to say I was excited was an understatement. Then someone mentioned that they were only there the day before and my mood was quickly going sour.

But everything became wonderful again when we found out the make-them-yourself Havaianas booth was going to be open at 3. We started and then stood in that line for an hour. I got a pair and I love them and I will wear them until it's so cold outside I risk losing toes. You think I'm joking, but I'm totally serious.

While people watching I pointed out a couple of the designers from last season's Project Runway - Jack and Kevin. I totally got caught telling Jenn about it (partly due to Jenn yelling Where?!?! Where?!?!) by Kevin and he came over and said hi and we ended up taking our pictures with him. He was really nice, but it still was embarrassing to get caught. Thanks Jenn!

Our next stop was a cocktail party for Total Beauty bloggers hosted by Sebastian. At this point, it had totally started with the torrential downpour, so thank the stars above they had 2 people there doing touch ups on hair because we still had to go backstage at the Ruffian show and interview the key makeup artist and key hairstylist (which we will be talking about later this week). The party was a lot of fun and it was nice to get to know everyone better.

On Sunday, my goal was pure people watching. On Saturday we saw Ms. Jay from America's Next Top Model, Jenn and I were talking and wondering who else we would see from that show and I said I would die if I saw Nigel Barker.

Back to Sunday...we walked into the Main Tent after going to brunch and there was a huge crowd at the M&M booth, so we beelined it to the crowd.

There had to be someone huge over there...and there was...Nigel Barker ladies and gentlemen.

My trip was complete.

There were about 3 people separating me from him and I was taking pictures like crazy. And then Eva Longoria-Parker came out from the booth. Crazy! So after they left and went into the show we were talking with some fellow bloggers and who came back out? Nigel Barker! He walked right past us and we asked if we could take his picture and then Jenn asked if he would take one with me....I was so nervous I didn't say anything to him. I think I may have said "thank you" after she took the picture. I am such the dork.

After I gathered myself we went to Elke's to have our eyebrows done (which I will be telling you all about later this week). We had a great time and our eyebrows have never looked better.

After that it was off to have dinner with MAC and some fellow bloggers (the pic below is from the dinner). The food was amazing and again hanging out with the other bloggers was too much fun.

When I realized it was 11pm and we still had to catch a train back to New Jersey and then drive back to Virginia, we decided our amazing time in NYC had to come to an end.

I had a great time and found myself amazed several times that I was 1) in NYC and 2) at Fashion Week with access to everything. I am extra glad Jenn was there with me. It was great to be able to point out some of the crazy (like needed to be locked up crazy) things and people we saw and be able to spend time together without our sons running around. And it was really great to meet some of the other beauty bloggers out there.

Jenn will be telling you all about her experience and about some other things we were able to do and what crazy antics she got herself into...a little teaser....Finola Hughes was involved and it was awesome. We were still laughing about it on our drive home Sunday night at 2 am.

I'm still trying to catch up on all the sleeping I missed out on this weekend. I felt like a train hit me yesterday. I guess that's what happens when you get home at 5 am and your son wakes you up at 7 am. I remember back in the day when I could go out and miss sleep and still be functional the next day. When did I lose that?

I'm off to squeeze in a nap while my son is taking one too.

Christine

victoria beckham's new short do

Victoria Beckham debuted her new do at Fashion Week, in the front row of the Marc Jacobs show.

Sitting next to Jennifer Lopez, she totally stood out and got mobbed by the photogs...rightfully so don't you think?

No more Posh Bob.

We love it...but what's your thoughts?

Tell us what you think in the comments below.

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

aveda fashion week trend report...alexander wang

In keeping with the realistic approach to hair that we've been seeing this Fashion Week...Eugene Souleiman (for Aveda) created this look at Alexander Wang.

The inspiration for this look is about the girl who’s just left the gym and has pulled her hair back into a “sweaty,” textured, undone half-pony. The bottom is loose and the texture is dry.

Here's how you can get this look on your own...

Step 1: Spray Aveda Volumizing Tonic throughout dry hair and finger comb to create a “sweaty” texture – a.k.a. – “gym hair.”

Step 2: Mist Aveda Air Control Hair Spray onto hair and pull top half into a ponytail. Twist hair from the top of the pony to the end and dry with a diffuser.

Step 3: Sprinkle Aveda Pure Abundance Hair Potion at the roots and rake it through with fingers to add texture, volume and grip.

Step 4: Massage the twisted pony upwards while drying with a diffuser to add texture and flyaways.

Step 5: Release ponytail so that hair is loose with messy tendril curls. Spray with Air Control Hair Spray and dry again with a diffuser.

Step 6: Bring the top and sides of hair together into a half-pony and secure tightly at the crown with a black string.

Step 7: Rake hands through roots once more to add roughness and texture.

This look works best on longer hair and you can make it a little more polished if you'd like.

For the makeup...although it's a little hard to tell in these photos...it's a little more dramatic with a gunmetal smoky eye, a light pinky flushed cheek, and slightly deeper pink mouth.

Gorgeous.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photos courtesy of eventphotosnyc.com

Monday, September 8, 2008

psst....wanna win a free mascara?

Clearly now you should be aware of our love for L'Oreal Bare Naturale Mascara.

It's a fabulous mascara that has the ability to give you lashes that are phenomenal, but still comfortable for contact lens wearers.

Well, our favorite mag Lucky will be giving away free mascara courtesy of L'Oreal Paris.

They will be giving away 1000 Bare Naturale Mascaras. The best part is that the way you can win one is as easy as can be...just head on over to luckylookout.com/barenaturale tomorrow at 9:00 am to enter.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of l'oreal paris

britney spears and her vma's opener

Alright, so neither Christine or myself was able to actually watch the VMA's because of all of the crazy activities that we had scheduled...but we so wanted to see if Britney was going to perform.

She didn't...and that totally saddened us just for the fact that it could have gone in a million different directions...all of which would have been fantastic on so many different levels.

While a performance didn't happen, she did come out and open the show. I will say that seeing her looking all together and cute was really nice to see...because I forgot to set the dvr for it, I have to thank You Tube here.

To cap off that...Britney also took home three awards – including Female Video, Pop Video and Video of the year.

While you may or may not be a Britney fan, you can at least appreciate the fact that she's trying to get herself back together in a big way.

If you'd like to give her some words of encouragement and support...or know someone who's a fan...head on over to britneyspearsbelieve.com to post inspirational, congratulatory and just fun messages for her to check out.

While there you can check out her fragrance Britney Spears Believe. It's described as a fruity floral blend with hints of warmth. It may not be the fragrance you're looking for, but if you have a teenage daughter or know a teenage girl...this might be a scent that would work for them.

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

aveda fashion week trend report...preen

Direct from Aveda is their look for the fabulous Preen show.

Hair guru extraordinaire Eugene Souleiman created the looks for Aveda.

Souleiman describes the look as androgynous with a hint of romance.

The front is quite masculine, sides are sculpted with a raked-back effect and the remainder of the hair is tied into a loose, low-slung knot at the nape of the neck.

We think that this is something that would look great for going out, or even as an alternative to the low slung pony.

Here's how you can replicate the look at home:

Step 1: Section off a triangle behind the crown of the head and pull back. Spray the sides with Volumizing Tonic and comb hair back with a wide tooth comb to create separation and a raked-back look. Dry sides of hair with a diffuser.

Step 2: Separate top triangle of hair into two sections, top and bottom. Blow dry each half straight and spray with Volumizing Tonic.

Step 3: Release both sections of hair and comb together with a fine tooth comb first, then a wide tooth comb (comb lines should be visible), adding more Volumizing Tonic to roots, to create a raked back effect.

Step 4: Slightly loosen shape with fingers to diminish comb marks and separate with hair pins. Dry with a diffuser.

Step 5: Pull all hair back, twist and tie into a low-slung knot a bit off center. Pull knot to tighten and finish the look with a list misting of Air Control Hair Spray.

It's a fabulous look that pairs nicely with the easy going makeup.

Just add a light foundation, or spot conceal if you can get away with it.

Use a cream based eye shadow in a light brownish color, a barely there light blush, and go for a softly colored lip that's just a your-lips-only-better color.

Done.

Love this look.

Try aveda.com for product info and to purchase.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photos courtesy of nymag.com and eventphotosnyc.com

limited edition derek lam for kiehl's travel kit

Kiehl’s Since 1851 has collaborated with Derek Lam to launch a Limited Edition Travel Kit ($225.00).

It was designed by Derek Lam exclusively for Kiehl's.

This sweet little splurge will debut in New York City first, then world wide in stores this month.

The kit will contain a selection of Derek Lam’s favorite grooming essentials in a cute little travel size containers.

Included in the bag will be...Creme de Corps, Creme de Corps Nurturing Body Washing Cream, Amino Acid Shampoo, Formula 133 and Lip Balm #1.

As with any limited edition goody...especially one with a bag designed by a fabulous designer like Lam...these will be snapped up, regardless of price.

Head on over to kiehls.com for more info and to purchase.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of kiehl's

ny fashion week...this is just the beginning

This weekend was such a blur.

From activity to activity, Christine and I were literally going non-stop.

Considering that we did not get a hotel room in the city (in order to save money) we had to catch the NJ Transit train from Hamilton, NJ to NYC each morning and then head back home to my aunts home late at night.

Sounds easy, but considering neither one of us is in college any more, we were exhausted by days end.

I have never been so tired in my life.

We saw so many things, met so many great people, and spied some celebs around the tents...amazing.

We're going to be bringing you the looks we saw, the pictures we took, and the stories of our adventures in the Big Apple...like how we met uber blogger Cory Kennedy at the Sebastian cocktail party on Saturday night and how I totally sorta kinda pissed off Finola Hughes while she was standing in line for a show.

I'm so not a genius with the camera.

A couple of other highlights for a tease?

Meeting and hanging with other bloggers and amazing PR people, getting our eyebrows done by the fabulous Elke, and getting to go backstage at Ruffian to report on the hair and makeup being done for the show (that's a picture from the actual runway finished look...gorgeous...no?)

So stay tuned...we'll be bringing you all the deets.

With love (always),
Jennifer and Christine
photo courtesy of nymag.com

Saturday, September 6, 2008

weekend reads...from the beauty blog network

Check out the latest from our friends over at the Beauty Blog Network.....

Lilan from The Daily Cookie gets Bombshell brows and gives you tips on how you can too!

A Touch of Blusher reviews Velvet Creme Wash from L'Oréal's De-maq Expert range.

Beauty Anonymous plays with the fall nail colors of OPI's France Collection.

The Makeup Divas reviews Clinique's High Impact Lip Colour and other products from their Modern Matte Fall 2008 Collection!

Beauty Anonymous plays with the fall nail colors of OPI's France Collection.

The Muse loves Benefit Powderflage! Check out her detailed review with tons of product photos!.

Beauty Banter reveals 5 beauty secrets with 1 drug store product - a product we guarantee you already have in your arsenal of beauty items!

15 Minute Beauty Fanatic has the lowdown on Elizabeth Arden's Fall 2008 Shadows!

Beauty411 discovers a foundation that thinks it's a skin treatment product, too!

Beauty Blogging Junkie's Napoleon Perdis Lip Service is her version of Napoleon Dynamite's precious ChapStick. If she were to leave it at home, she'd borrow "your guys's" phone to get someone to drop it off, stat.

Beauty Junkie in SF find more lovely Grapefruit flavored products to gush over. Check them out!

Product Girl turns 3 years old in September! To celebrate they're doing a series of giveaways all month long. Enter their first giveaway, goodies from theMAC Cult of Cherry collection. Good luck!

The girls of 90210 grace Nylon's cover and inspires Beyond Beauty Basics to show you how to get the nude lip look!

Toya from The Life of A Ladybug has started a new feature: Ask me how to! Each week, she will answer a reader question. In the first installment, she shares how you can use your bronzer all year long!

Face Candy tests the new 3 Custom Color Specialist Light Brights Collection.

This week, Spoiled Pretty is hooking you up, Gossip Girl style. Get in touch with your inner Serena and Blair, with two haute headbands, courtesy of Colette Malouf. Winners will also receive Gossip Girl: The Complete First Season on DVD. Enter today!

Karen from Makeup and Beauty Blog gives you a cheap, stylish way to organize all of those eye shadow pans from MAC Cosmetics.

Have you heard about the vibrating mascaras? Are they worth the money? Cybelesays found one that is if volume and length are what you seek.

Pursebuzz.com has expanded and has officially launched a new hair site. From hair days, reviews and hair tutorials I am going have it all about hair. Also, don't forget to enter the contest for a great set of Chi products. Starts this weekend.

with love (always),
Jennifer and Christine

weekend reads....from total beauty

Happy Saturday!! Here are some great posts from our friends over at Total Beauty....

The Makeup Divas reviews Clinique's Quick Eyes Cream Shadows and Blushcream Stick.

Enter to win a Twisted Silver necklace worth $80 from Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog