giveaway with crest whitestrips advanced seal...the winners

They are the new Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seal. Which are supposed to stay in place so well, you can kiss with them on. You are also supposed to see results within 3 days of starting the 14 day process.

While, I haven't tried them yet, Jenn got her hubby too. She said that he said (you like that?) that they felt comfortable on and stayed in place well. She said she hasn't noticed a big difference yet, but he just started using them and his teeth were pretty much on the white side anyway. She's going to make him go for the whole 14 day whitening process and get back to us later.

You can find them now anywhere Crest products are sold and are being sold for around $45.

If you have a pair of new 3D glasses laying around the house somewhere and need a laugh check out the website kissmein3d.com. It is an interactive site from Crest about the new Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seal. You can virtual kiss Fernando and/or Olivia, the hosts of KissMein3D.com, Crest Whitestrips interactive, non-branded debut of the new product with new InTru3D technology.

If you don't have any 3D glasses and now you are totally curious about the site, here are some places to get a free pair: A&P, Coburns, CVS (select stores only), Dollar General, Fairway, Food Lion, Fresh Brands, Frys, Hess (select stores only), Hy Vee, K-Mart, Kroger, Meijer, Nash Finch, Patchmark, Ralphs, Roundy’s, Safeway/Vons, Supervalu, Target & Winn Dixie.

Onto the 5 lucky people who have won themselves a box of the Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seal.....

Congratulations to:

Sherry B.,

Leane G.,

Kathe E.,

Marcia F.,

and Mandy S.

Enjoy those strips ladies! Everyone should check back soon for another giveaway announcement!!

Jennifer and Christine

estee lauder vivid garden summer collection

In case you already aren't majorly fantasising about warmer weather...we totally are here...Estee Lauder has come out with Vivid Garden, an utterly adorable collection for summer 2009.

Using pops of floral bright colors like teal, lime, and aquamarine, beautiful pinks and purples... you will want summer to get here pronto.

One of our faves?

Estée Lauder’s new, limited edition Vivid Garden Illuminating Powder ($32 seen below right). An enchanting vivid garden in a powder compact, the tablet features three luminous, floral-inspired shades lightly dusted with gold in a charming floral pattern that blend easily and perfectly together for a naturally warm summer glow.

Featured in Estée Lauder’s signature navy blue compact with golden cartouche, the powder compact’s silky, lightweight formula goes on evenly and is suitable for all skin types and skin tones.

Lightly dust powder on cheeks, face and décolletage or anywhere you’d like to add a light touch of luminous summer radiance.

What else are you in store for?

Well...more new, limited edition shades of Pure Color Illuminating Gloss, Pure Color Lipstick, Estée Lauder Signature Eyeshadow Quad in two gorgeous palettes...Orchid Garden and Jasmine Garden, Duo-Tone Eye Pencils and Pure Color Nail Lacquers for a pretty, floral-inspired look.

Each look is especially unique and are available at select retailers and esteeLauder.com.

Prices are from $18 to $35 and will only be available for a limited time...so hurry!

logics color dna system gloss balm

To say I was a fan of the old Logics line would be a serious understatement.

I worshiped at the Logics alter.

We're talking plunking out the dough for the liter bottles of shampoo and conditioner.

Something I very rarely do, considering I change my mind in the haircare arena every month or so.

Of course though, as with any other product you end up falling head-over-heels with, they ended up discontinuing that formula and revamping the whole line.

While I haven't tried their new shampoo and conditioner, we did have the chance to try out some of their new styling products.

The new offerings include a Contouring Paste ($24), a Geometric Design Gel ($22), an Aerial Liquid Volume ($22), and a Gloss Balm ($22).

My fave has to be the Gloss Balm.

I love how it gives a little piecey definition, but still controls frizzies and the little bit of static that I've been getting here and there with the dry and cold weather.

It has this kinda thickish gel like texture, that has little bits of miniscule shiny bits (totally the only way I could think of how to describe it) that make my hair look shiny in a did-you-do-something-different-with-your-hair sorta way.

Love that.

My next goal...after getting my hands on the new shampoo and conditioner...is to check out the gel. Something that I haven't really tried since like the 90's and the infamous hair-rake Jersey coif I used to sport.

I shudder at the thought.

After that, I'm thinking about wrestling the Contouring Paste out of Christine's hands (she got to try that and the Aerial Liquid Volume) and checking it out for myself...she's already been singing its praises.

I think I can take her.

To find out more info on the Logics line, or to find a salon near you that carries it, head on over to logicshair.com.


Jenn

giveaway with crest whitestrips advanced seal

We gals here at Beauty in Real Life like to laugh....a lot. What helps with that? A nice shiny, pearly white smile.

I have to admit that I have tried some "at home whitening strips" before and I couldn't last more than a couple days before I gave up.

First, I gagged....a lot. And second, I couldn't get the darn things to stay in place long enough and I definitely couldn't wear them (top and bottom) at the same time, which instantly doubled up the amount of time I had to spend to get teeth that didn't turn whiter.

Then these showed up on our doorstep.

They are the new Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seal. Which are supposed to stay in place so well, you can kiss with them on. You are also supposed to see results within 3 days of starting the 14 day process.

While, I haven't tried them yet, Jenn got her hubby too. She said that he said (you like that?) that they felt comfortable on and stayed in place well. She said she hasn't noticed a big difference yet, but he just started using them and his teeth were pretty much on the white side anyway. She's going to make him go for the whole 14 day whitening process and get back to us later.

You can find them now anywhere Crest products are sold and are being sold for around $45.

If you have a pair of new 3D glasses laying around the house somewhere and need a laugh check out the website kissmein3d.com. It is an interactive site from Crest about the new Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seal. You can virtual kiss Fernando and/or Olivia, the hosts of KissMein3D.com, Crest Whitestrips interactive, non-branded debut of the new product with new InTru3D technology.

If you don't have any 3D glasses and now you are totally curious about the site, here are some places to get a free pair: A&P, Coburns, CVS (select stores only), Dollar General, Fairway, Food Lion, Fresh Brands, Frys, Hess (select stores only), Hy Vee, K-Mart, Kroger, Meijer, Nash Finch, Patchmark, Ralphs, Roundy’s, Safeway/Vons, Supervalu, Target & Winn Dixie.

And now for the Giveaway Details:

We have 5 boxes of the new Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seal to give to the top responses of "Which is your favorite kiss and why?" This giveaway is short and sweet and ends this Saturday, (February 28th) at 3:00 pm EST. to enter the giveaway, send us an email at beautyinreallifecontests@gmail.com with "Crest Giveaway" in the subject line. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address and your answer to the question.

We will randomly select five winners February 28th at 3pm EST. The winners will be announced the same day.

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 February 28th at 3:00 PM EST to enter.


Good luck!!


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 Crest 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 Crest. Some restrictions may apply. Open only to US residents only...sorry. Entries will be accepted through 3:00 pm EST on Saturday, February 28th.

oscar looks we loved...jennifer aniston

I honestly thought that Jennifer Aniston looked all happy and glowy at the Oscars this past Sunday.

At first I was on the fence with her look...thinking she pretty much played it safe.

But after looking that the images of her online, I've changed my mind.

J'adore.

All of her makeup was by CHANEL and expertly applied by Makeup Artist Angela Levin.

Their beauty inspiration?

When I spoke to Jen before the Oscars, we decided we wanted to create a look that exuded modern glamour. She had just returned from vacation, and she had that relaxed, glowing feeling, which we wanted to display on the red carpet. She is the quintessential California glamour girl, and she was radiant as always on Oscar night.

Here's the actual products used and how she applied them...

Angela prepped Jennifer's skin with CHANEL Hydramax + Active Moisture Boost Cream.

She then used a foundation brush to apply CHANEL Lift Lumiere Firming and Smoothing Fluid Makeup in Beige all over the face.

Under Jennifer's eyes, Angela applied CHANEL Lift Lumiere Smooth and Rejuvinating Eye Contour in Beige Lumiere.

Instead of a traditional blush, Angela dabbed a bit of CHANEL Hydrabase Lipstick in Coco Red on the apples of Jennifer's cheeks. She then applied CHANEL Sheer Brilliance in Sunkissed around the tops of her cheekbones, closer to the eye, for a bit of shimmer.

Jennifer's eyes were a combination of LORAC eye shadows in Jade, Black, and Serenity, and a Tina Earnshaw shadow in Aubergine. Her lashes looked extra glamorous thanks to CHANEL Inimitable Mascara in Noir-Black.

On Jennifer's lips, Angela used CHANEL Aqualumiere Lipshine in Panarea, available in April.

To complete the look, she dusted Soleil Tan de CHANEL Bronzer on Jennifer's skin, an exclusive creation product from CHANEL also launching in April.

My take?

Totally thought the look rocked and complemented her dress by Valentino. Plus, I would kill for her highlights...just saying.

Looking good is the best revenge after all.

giveaway with ralph lauren romance always yours....the winner

We had a little giveaway with Ralph Lauren and Romance Always Yours. We have one bottle of this yummy perfume to give to one lucky reader.

We'll announce that winner shortly. Until then, here's a little bit more information about the perfume....

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the original Ralph Lauren Romance, perfumer Harry Fremont has created Always Yours, a more complex fragrance blend inspired by the deepening of a relationship. Fremont also created the original Romance, which remains a best-seller today.

Romance Always Yours is a Sensual Floral Chypre with top notes of Sun Goddess Rose, Yellow Freesia & Ginger; mid notes of Lotus Flower, White Violet & Fresh Daylily; and base notes of Patchouli Concentrate, Creamy Sensual Musk & Oak Moss. To celebrate the release, the fragrance is available not only as an Elixir de Parfum ($60-$75) but also as a very special Limited Edition Parfum ($225), which features a hand-crafted glass faceted dauber, reminiscent of the diamond - a traditional 10th wedding anniversary gift. The Romance Always Yours Elixir de Parfum will become a permanent part of the collection alongside the original Romance, a testament to the lasting commitment which inspired Always Yours.

Ralph Lauren Romance Always Yours is now available at department stores nationwide and at RalphLauren.com.

So, who's the winner?

A big congratulations goes out to Amy F.!!!!

Check back soon for another giveaway announcement!

Jennifer and Christine

feel pretty with elizabeth arden and style.com

We wanted to let you know about an exciting promotion that Elizabeth Arden is hosting for their new fabulous scent, Pretty, in collaboration with Style.com.

Right now, through April 19th they are hosting the I Feel Pretty sweepstakes.

Visitors to the site can enter for the opportunity to win a Spa Vacation for 2 plus the entire Pretty Elizabeth Arden collection!

Prize includes:

Airfare
Accommodations for 5 nights
Massage treatment
$100 credit toward additional spa services
The entire Pretty Elizabeth Arden collection...a value of over $150

How fabulous it that?

So, make sure you go to style.com/promo/elizabetharden/pretty/ to take enter this ultra-cool contest!

5 minutes, 5 questions with gretchen heber from naturallycurly.com

For our readers with curly locks...this is for you.

NaturallyCurly.com is the online oasis for curlies-- Offering forums, tips, articles and products all devoted to curly-heads.

Here's a little about the founders Gretchen and Michelle.



Gretchen was nice enough to sit down and answer some questions for us and here's what she said...


With the dry weather we've been having, what are some quick remedies for frizzy hair?

Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate! Dry air and dry indoor heat are murder on our moisture-loving locks. Use a deep conditioner at least once a week and use a leave-in conditioner every time you wet your hair. Other helpful frizz tips:

Apply your styling products to soaking wet hair
Sleep on a satin pillowcase
Avoid touching your hair as much as possible
Sleep on a satin pillowcase.

What are your Top 5 products for curly hair?

There are too many to choose from! Many curlygirls love Curly Hair Solutions Curl Keeper.
Some other great ones: AG Hair Cosmetics Re:coil, Miss Jessie's Curly Pudding, Innersense Quiet Calm Curl Control and Kinky-Curly Knot Today.


What's the best way to style curly hair, air dry or diffuser?

It depends on your hair. Some curlies swear by air drying; others like the extra fullness they get from the diffuser. A very common method is to diffuse the hair until it's about 70% dry, then let it air dry the remainder.


Can you suggest any bargain alternatives to deep condition curly hair?

Lots of curlies use olive oil to deep condition their parched locks. Others make a paste of very ripe bananas or of avocados!


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

Simplicity is best. Find the simplest, most effective routine that works for you, and stick with it!


Thanks Gretchen!

Be sure to head on over to naturallycurly.com for more info and to check out all that their fab site has to offer!

oscar looks we loved...amy adams

So the Oscars went off last night and I have to say that I watched to whole thing.

Like from beginning to end.

Yeah...I couldn't believe that I did that either.

There definitely were some hits and misses outfit-wise going on.

Such as...what in the name of excess and unnecessary fabric was Jessica Biel wearing? I mean, really? Someone that young and completely devoid of fat, does not need to be hiding anything behind a cascading wall of satin.

And don't even get me started on her hair.

Anyway...there were some looks that I loved and Amy Adams was one of them.

Here's the entire scoop from her makeup artist for the evening...none other than the Molly Stern (CoverGirl's Celebrity Makeup Artist).

First of all I have to say I was the most excited I have ever been this morning. I couldn't sleep a wink. I was dreaming about Amy's makeup.

I started by prepping the face with Jurlique citrus spray to give the face a healthy lift then I gave Amy a light facial massage with La Mer moisturizing lotion.

Next I based her face with YSL Perfect Touch #2. Then l blushed her cheeks with Chantecaille Aqua Blush in Frivolous as a peachy base with Chantecaille Sesame Peach Eyeshadow over top.

Her eyes are based with NARS Cream Eyeshadow in Maracaibo. Over that I blended Shu Uemura Shadow in Gray 960 mixed with Shu Uemura Shadow in Purple 700 all over the lid up into the crease.

With a flat shadow brush I added a touch of NARS Shadow in Ondine on the inside corner of her lid to give the eye a little gold hint. I lined the top and underneath of her eye with Trish McEvoy's Arabian nights definer. To soften the line underneath I added a soft smudge of Suqqu Lavender Shadow in #27. On her lashes I put 1 soft coat of CoverGirl Exact Eyelights Mascara in Black Ruby.

On her lip I based her lip with La Mer lipbalm then applied a thin coat of Outlast Lipstain by CoverGirl in Plum Pout. Then a sheer layer of Shu Uemura wine lip color in 265 with a dot of CoverGirl Wetslicks AmazeMint in Plum Crazy at the center of her lip for a little extra pout.

That's also what she took in her bag for touch ups.

Inspiration. A cross between Talouse Latrec's dancing girls and the watercolor feeling of a Gustav Klimt painting.

The day was amazing. My goal was to make sure that her makeup was saturated but not overdone. I wanted to give her a face without competing with the dress.


I think she looked polished and her makeup was on-point.

Gorgeous.


image of amy adams courtesy of picapp.com

weekend reads...total beauty

It's week three of Bare Budget Beauty's birthday bash, and this week you can enter to win a $50 gift card to Salon Hive! Hurry, you only have until February 23!


Viva Woman asks what should come first during a shower: shampoo or facial cleansing? and finds out why the sequence would make a difference.


Beauty Secrets Revealed Finally Launches LashMantra- 100% Natural Eyelash Growth Serum


Read Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog's review of new Ageless Fantasy perfume, and then enter the Ageless Fantasy Giveaway to win a bottle (ARP $120.)


Beauty Anonymous features a preview of Paul & Joe Summer 2009 Makeup Collection.


Beauty Junkies Unite discovers Shampowder Hair Powder as an alternative to her favorite aerosol dry shampoo!


Learn hair dye secrets with Makeup Files' Home Hair Dying 101. Plus, see Trisha with her brand new dark brown 'do!


The Makeup Divas reviews Gillette Venus Embrace & Spa Breeze shavers.


Fabulous Over Forty is having an target="_blank">Oscar Worthy Giveaway worth nearly $1200 in beauty products. You won't want to miss this one!


More Than a Pretty Face interviews Trae Bodge Naperiala, Co-founder and Creative Director of Three Custom Color Specialists.

Get Trae's Bronzed Goddess look for spring 2009 by entering our contest to win one of three Mood Lighting Shimmer Cremes in On Fire.


Beauty411 brings you a review of the new Olay Professional Pro-X Skincare line that is getting so much buzz!


Boutique Flair reviews the Crabtree & Evelyn Aromatherapy Distillations Body Wash. And, she's giving away a Good For You Girls Complete Skin Care Kit - because good skin care starts early!


Neon Bible takes a look at beauty products from the 90s in the new feature Flashback Beauty


Face Candy reviews a Rihanna Favorite, Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Mask.



Alison of the Advice Sisters is covering Fashion Week from the runway. and backstage at Diesel, Carolina Hererra, Tory Burch, and more!


Brighten up your skin for spring! Dolce Beauty enlightens us on Aveda's newest (Sodium Laureth Sulfate-Free!) skincare collection, Enbrightenment.


Need some new makeup brushes? Check out Glossypink's pick!


makeup loves me gives you the 411 on MAC's ruffian red the limited edition lipstick that ruled Mercedes Benz Fashion Week.


Blaq Vixen Beauty finally gets the details on how to get Keyshia Cole's stunning look from her newest album, A Different Me>! Check it here!


What's a Kitten Eye? Amber from Beauty Blogging Junkie reports from backstage at Twinkle to give you all the details.

This week, Daneen from Spoiled Pretty was a Barbie Girl in the Barbie World. Click here for your backstage pass to New York Fashion Week's most anticipated event: the Barbie Runway Show!

Beauty Anonymous features a preview of Paul & Joe Summer 2009 Makeup Collection.

A Touch of Blusher reviews Deluxe Eyeshadow Kit from Barry M.

The Makeup Divas reviews Gillette Venus Embrace & Spa Breeze shavers.

Raging Rouge raves about the latest fragrance by CLEAN, Simply Soap.

Face Candy gives you the details on Les Noirs de Chanel.

bobbi brown for tory burch spring 2009

Here's a video from the New York Fashion Week that took place this past Fall. It's for Spring 2009 and it highlights the look Bobbi Brown did for the Tory Burch Spring 2009 show.

Love the look.

Plus she talks about some products that just came out...like her Bobbi Brights color palette for eyes. And the color she's loving for Spring.

Enjoy.

new york fashion week fall 2009...marchesa

NARS Cosmetics was backstage creating the makeup look for Marchesa’s Autumn/Winter 2009 show.

Lead Makeup Artist, Talia Shobrook for NARS Cosmetics, created the wild brows and matte skin that graced the runway.

The inspiration behind the looks?

Well...Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig created their Fall 2009 collection with fairytales in mind.

To highlight this theme, Talia Shobrook created a whimsical look from her vision of a naughty aristocrat running out of a party, like a young girl going into the woods wearing a gorgeous ball gown, putting on makeup rather naively, she explained.

Wild brows atop flawless skin was the focus of the look.
I used a dash of Madrague brown shadow and went right into the inner corners of the brows, said Talia. To capture the look of a tousled young girl, the brows were brushed in an unnatural direction. Beneath the brows was a colored lid of matte white, as if applied in a fleeting moment by a true makeup novice. Soft lips complemented the perfect skin.

My take? While I think the overall look is beautiful, I'd have to smooth down the old brows...I tend to look a little insane grandpa if I don't.

Below is a a face chart and step-by-step to recreate the look:

Face

· Lightly exfoliate and smooth skin with NARSskin Hydrating Freshening Lotion

· Moisturize with NARSskin Aqua Gel Hydrator

· Use NARS Sheer Glow Foundation (NEW for Fall 2009) in the center of the face and buff out for a neutral base

· Apply NARS Concealer generously, to cover any imperfections

· Apply NARS Loose Powder for matte finish



Eyes

· Apply NARS Duo Eyeshadow in Kilimanjaro (icy yellow and icy blue sides) to entire lid, all the way to the brow, in a block shape, not blending

· Apply NARS Duo Eyeshadow in Madrague (cream side) on top

· Dash of the brown in NARS Duo Eyeshadow in Madrague (caramel side) into the inner top corners of the brows, pushing the hair in opposite directions

· Curl lashes with NARS Eyelash Curler

· Coat top lashes with NARS Larger than Life Volumizing Mascara in Black (NEW for Fall 2009)



Lips

· Massage light layer of NARS Lip Lacquer in Chelsea Girls

· Apply a bit of NARS Concealer to center of lip for matte look

NARS products are available at narscosmetics.com and at your local NARS counter.

beauty deal of the week...stila

Alright, so you couldn't go backstage to catch the Stila team in action this past fall...right?

Well, here's your chance to snap up the same colors used at the Spring 2009 Lela Rose show.

Called the Stila Backstage with Lela Rose and sold exclusively at Beauty.com, the collection contains four key products used by every artist backstage at the Spring 2009 show.

In the sweetest little paint-can-esque container around.

Here's what you're getting and how each was used...

Stila Sun Shade 01 was used to bronze the models’ cheekbones. This bronzer is known for its amazing buildable color, which makes it a makeup artist favorite season after season. Cranberry Lip Glaze popped the models’ pouts.

For the eyes, Starlight Eye Shadow let the lids shimmer with a champagne glow, and a coating of Major Lash Mascara in Brown helped to create a balanced, feminine face.

Subtle and very wearable, this modern look is sophisticated in its simplicity, a must in order to complement the vibrant kaleidoscope of colors with a funky tribal twist fashions that paraded down the Lela Rose runway.

The best part?

The price it's only $34 even though you're getting about $77 worth of product!

Head on over to beauty.com now.

spring is almost here....get your toes ready

I'm not going to lie, I have close to, if not more than, 30 pairs of flips. However, I only have one pair of Havaianas. I scored them last September at Fashion Week in New York. And now that Spring is almost here, it's time to acquire a few more pairs. Havaianas are so comfortable and a lot smooshier (is that a word...well, it is now) than they look.

Flip season...(aka Spring/Summer) also means that's it's time to get those feet in shape. Whether you get professional pedicures or like to do them at home, it's time to get working on them. OPI and Essie have already released their Spring lines and there are some great, bright colors that would look awesome on the toes paired with some cute flips.

OPI has launched their South Beach collection. I think there is a great Spring color in there for everyone. I'm liking Feelin' Hot Hot Hot and OPI on Collins Avenue (pictured right). To check out the collection of 12 different colors and pick your faves, head on over to opi.com or head over to an Ulta near you to see them in person. The OPI polishes are usually around $9, but you can get them on sale at Ulta for about $6.

Essie has it's Spring 2009 collection out with 6 new colors. They are also around $9 and again, Ulta usually has them on sale for less. I think Status Symbol (pictured left) has my name all over it. To check out the Essie collection, click here.

Here are some new styles from Havaianas to show off the toes:


Comfort and fashion rarely mix. Happily, Havaianas are an exception. Dubbed as the world's best sandal, their more than 40-year old secret rubber formula is responsible for buttery-soft, bouncy, flexible sandals that have blissfully cushioned the feet of many dignitaries and celebrities around the world. These comfortable sole saviors have been paired with flirty skirts, tailored shirts and jeans, helping glamour girls like Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, and Cameron Diaz keep their poise on the streets of Hollywood.

There are several new styles and designs but I picked just a couple to show you.

First is the Havaianas Slim Peacock for the exotic. Retail: $24 Available in white, navy, and chocolate.

Next up is the Havaianas Brazil Logo for the classic lovers. Retail: $22 Available in pink, brown, and navy.

And last is the Havaianas FIT for the casual chic. Retail: $30 Available in silver, black, and gold. Check out Shopbop.com to find this style.

I have also seen the Havaianas FIT in Madewell and they are definitely different from your regular flips - with the right outfit, I think these would be really cute. The Brazil Logo in Navy will soon be in my possession. And I am loving all 3 colors of the peacock design....decisions, decisions. Head on over to havaianasus.com to get yourself a pair and check out all the other designs and colors.

Christine

beauty deals....kerastase

Today only, Kerastase online is running a special promo that let's you receive a 4 piece sample size set free when you buy at least $85 worth of product.

Click on the image below for the choices of sets and their specific promo codes, then head on over to kerastase-usa.com to get started!

If you are a Kerastase member ( a free quick and easy sign-up) you can even get your order shipped free...as long as you spend $85 or more.

Head on over now!

90210's jessica stroup at new york fashion week

To show you how clearly out of it I am, I had to look up who this was before writing.

An email came into our inbox mentioning her name several times...basically making me feel even more clueless then I am.

After Google-ing her name, I figured it out.

She's one of the stars of the new 90210.

Now I can sleep tonight.

Anywho, she does look good...not even going to mention the articles this girl has, slamming her for her weight issues...whatevs...totally none of my business...and her makeup is on point, so here's the 411.

First off, all of her makeup is courtesy of theBalm Makeup Artist, Felicia Roman.

And it's utterly fabulous.

Wanting all attention on Stroup’s bright blue eyes, Felicia went dramatic with the lids and kept the rest simple.

Here's the how-to:

1- Pick-Up-Liners in Don Juan were smudged around the lashes and in a thicker line covering most of the bottom part of the lid to achieve smoky definition. Because the Pick Up Liners are half the size of a typical pencil, Felicia was able to get up close and really push the liner into the base of the lashes with perfect precision.

2- Felicia dabbed ShadyLady Eye Shadow in Luscious Lani across the lid to highlight the symmetrical shape of her face and then finished it off with a light dusting of the sheer 100% mineral Overshadows in “You Buy, I’ll Fly” – a copper shimmer- to make Stroup’s eyes POP. This powder was also blended into the lower lash line over the pencil for an ethereal finish. The lashes were defined and volumized with 3 coats of Two Timer Mascara- two to instantly build fuller lashes and a third to separate and lengthen.

3- To even out skintone and smooth her skin, Felicia blended BalmShelter Tinted Moisturizer with TimeBalm Concealer. TimeBalm Concealer has time released hydrating properties, so there was no need to reapply between shows- the under eye area stayed bright all day. SexyMama translucent powder gave a photo-finish, and then a combo of the matte Bahama Mama bronzer with the more shimmering berry toned Hot Mama blush gave a healthy glow to the cheeks.

4- Roman conditioned and nourished Stroup’s lips with theBalm to the Rescue, and then topped them off with either BalmShelter Lip Gloss in Girly-Girl (for a pinky finish) or Plump Your Pucker in Cocoa My Coconut (a warm nude) to add some shimmer. Jessica LOVED the yummy flavors of the glosses, especially Cocoa My Coconut which she wore for the Jill Stuart show

There are two thing I'm dying for right now.

One...to have Felicia Roman as my own personal makeup artist so that I can look flawless all day. And two...to get my hands on that TimeBalm Concealer. I mean...really...time release?

Amazing.

All of theBalm products are available at your local Sephora or at sephora.com.


photo courtesy of zimbio.com

new york fashion week fall 2009...thakoon

Loved. Loved. Loved, this look from NARS Cosmetics at the Thakoon show.

The eyes were the right shade of smoky brown and the rest of the face was superbly balanced out to match.

A great look for day with just a little hint of the brown shadow lining the eye and a little on the lid...then really punch it up for night.

Read on for the details...

Diane Kendal for NARS Cosmetics created a look that meshed beautifully with the collection. Combining a bit of 80’s rock and roll glam, makeup artist Kendal created a strong look without being too girly.
The look is all about the eyes with soft matte lips for contrast, said Diane Kendal. To bring strength to the face, Diane focused on creating smoky eyes and full brows, while downplaying the lips and keeping skin fresh with a light brushing of blush for a healthy glow.

Below is the step-by-step and the face chart from the show:

Face:


· Use NARSskin Hydrating Moisture Cream to moisturize entire face

· Apply NARS Concealer as needed, to cover any imperfections

· Use a minimal amount of NARS Sheer Glow Foundation (NEW for Fall 2009)

· Lightly stroke NARS Blush in Gilda on the apples of the cheeks



Eyes:


· Use NARS Eyeliner Pencil in Mambo to line upper lashes and crease

· Blend over entire lid and up to brows, keeping dense color by lashline

· With Mambo, line lower lashes and gently blend

· Use NARS Single Eyeshadow in Bali to fill in brows

· Draw a very thin line on upper lashes with NARS Eyeliner Stylo in Black (NEW for Fall 2009)

· Curl lashes with NARS Eyelash Curler



Lips:


· Apply NARS Lip Therapy Treatment in Rain to entire lip

· Lightly pat a small amount of NARS Concealer over Rain to take down color

NARS products are available at narscosmetics.com.

new york fashion week fall 2009...rachel roy

Another moment from this month's New York Fashion Week.

This time you get to go behind the scenes and follow Bobbi Brown backstage at the Rachel Roy’s Fall show.

You'll also get a chance to learn how Bobbi worked together with Rachel to conceptualize and create the look that helped define the collection!

Enjoy.



Be sure to head on over to bobbibrowncosmetics.com.

cover girl outlast lipstain

I am seriously in love with these. I have 2 (Plum Pout and Sassy Mauve) and plan to add a couple more soon. These are the new Outlast Lipstains from CoverGirl.

The water-based colorants of Outlast Lipstain give lips a beautiful, lightweight flush of color that won't come off, lasting for hours without the heavy look or feel of an ordinary lipstick. Its pen-like precision applicator makes it easy to define your lips-just draw on color without any hassle!

They look like a marker and go on much like one as well. You need to be quick and precise with the application. They dry quickly and as they claim, they do not come off easily. I made the mistake of trying to apply this one day while in the car with the family and my husband hit a pothole as I was approaching my lower lip. It was not pretty. I also swiped them on my hand to show my sister-in-law the colors and the stripes were still noticeable hours later. You also need to make sure your lips are well hydrated. Since they are water-based, they soak right into your lips, so, if your lips are dry or cracked, it will show....a lot.

Usually, I apply the Lipstain first and then apply a gloss on top for a little added shine. They are super lightweight. If I didn't apply a gloss over the top it would feel like I had nothing on at all. And I like that you can control how much color you put on. I would recommend starting light and then adding more if you need it.

The Outlast Lipstains are around $7.99 and can be found anywhere CoverGirl is sold. I would check the adds for sales. I saw CVS selling them for $4.89 last week. You can also log on to covergirl.com and put in your information and it will tell you the best shades for your skintone and coloring.

Christine

new york fashion week fall 2009....hervé léger

Another look, this one courtesy of NARS Cosmetics at Hervé Léger’s Autumn/Winter 2009 show.

Lead Artist, Diane Kendal for NARS Cosmetics, drew inspiration from Helmut Newton photographs, using the concept of a brave warrior - strong and fierce. The collection is very hard and sculpted so we wanted to keep the skin neutral and show strength through the eyebrows, said Diane.

The focus was a very strong eyebrow with glowy skin, communicating strength without being too bold. We created very fresh, dewy skin by using the NARS Sheer Glow Foundation. It really allowed the skin’s natural highlights to shine through, said Diane.

Uh...hello...fresh dewy skin...j'adore that.

Here's the step-by-step on how to recreate the look:

For the Face:


· Use NARSskin Hydrating Moisture Cream to moisturize

· Apply NARS Concealer as needed, to cover any imperfections

· Use a minimal amount of NARS Sheer Glow Foundation (NEW for Fall 2009) to even skin tone



On the Eyes:


· Brush brows to define natural shape

· With NARS Single Eyeshadow in Bali, fill in brows

· Brush again for even, natural look

· Apply gentle dusting of NARS Single Eyeshadow in Sophia to entire lid, blending up towards brows for natural shading

· Curl lashes with NARS Eyelash Curler



To Finish the Lips:


· Apply NARS Lip Therapy Treatment in Rain to entire lip

· Use NARS Concealer over Rain to mute color

For more info on NARS products, or to make a purchase, head on over to your local NARS counter, or try narscosmetics.com.

new york fashion week fall 2009....abaete

Even though we can't be there for Fashion Week this year, we're still planning on bringing you some of the major to-die for-looks we are loving from the shows.

First up...tarte cosmetics and the Abaete show.

Both of us are totally crushing on its pure wearability for a fabulous daytime look with a slight edge.

Perfect.

Read on for more info lovelies...

tarte was the makeup for Abaeté’s Fall 09 Fashion show, which took place at The Altman Building on Friday, February 13, 2009.

Abaeté’s Laura Poretzky was inspired by Les Incroyables, a group of gentlemen who formed in the 18th Century after the French Revolution.

Beauty.com celebrity makeup artist Tina Turnbow used this inspiration to create an “old world masculinity meets modern day femme” makeup look for the show.

It was all about a monochromatic, dewy complexion with a touch of color.

The eyes had a hint of gloss and the lips were slightly rose. Tina was able to achieve the look with several tarte complexion products such as smooth operator oil-free natural foundation with SPF 20 and the eraser 4-in-1 natural concealer.

Click the face chart below to check out the deets on how to achieve the look at home and the specific products used!


For more information on tarte cosmetics, or to make a purchase, head on over to beauty.com.

weekend reads...from the beauty blog network

Raging Rouge announces the tarte complexion giveaway! Click HERE to enter for a chance to win one of three tarte cosmetic prizes, each with a retail value of $83!

A Touch of Blusher tries out Jill Stuart's Mix Blush Compact.

Beauty Anonymous wears Jewel Lips.

Come see what mascara The Makeup Divasis raving about.

Beauty Junkie in SF loves Benefit's The Overnighter's Set because it comes with product and her fav, a Hanky Panky, just for Valentine's Day!

DivaShop reviews some Coastal Scents & e.l.f. Products.

Elke starts her series on how to take control. Beauty control that is. Part I: Focus.

Beauty Banter gives you the exclusive dish on Gwyneth Paltrow's hair inspiration!

happy valentine's day!

Considering it's Valentine's Day and we totally forgot to say Happy Valentine's Day Darlings...here's a little ditty we hope makes up for it.

Enjoy.



We totally love this movie.


Jennifer and Christine

kiehl's skin-tone corrector

You know we like our Kiehl's here at Beauty in Real Life. We both love the Creme de Corps. And I think between the two of us we have bought almost one of everything they put out. This sounds really interesting to us and we would be curious to know how well it actually works. Especially with a $50 pricetag. Either way, if you have really uneven skin-tone this just may be what you have looking for.

KIEHL'S INTRODUCES HIGHLY EFFICIENT SKIN-TONE CORRECTOR

the new york city apothecary debuts a groundbreaking potent blend of emblica, gycolic, and hepes

Building on the success of its Kiehl's Dermatologist Solutions collection of advanced formulas for more serious skin concerns, Kiehl's is introducing Highly Efficient Skin-Tone Corrector. Highly Efficient Skin-Tone Corrector is clinically demonstrated* to correct the appearance of brown spots and uneven skin-tone. Formulated for use as a daily treatment, the formula actively fights skin discoloration resulting from both the normal skin-aging process and external environmental factors such as photodamage from overexposure to the sun. The latest introduction to the broad-ranging Dermatologist Solutions, the potent treatment is formulated with a unique blend of effective antioxidants and acids – Emblica, Glycolic Acid and Hepes – with the equivalent efficacy of 2% Hydroquinone.
So what is the breakthrough?

Kiehl's chemists formulated our Highly Efficient Skin-Tone Corrector with Emblica Fruit Extract and were able to achieve one of the most powerful, yet safe and effective treatments to address the significant reduction of dark spots*, age spots and sun spots.The proprietary patent-pending technology of Emblica has been shown to stabilize highly unstable ingredients including Glycolic Acid, and when used together in this formula, helps to correct the appearance of uneven skin tone. Unlike the controversial ingredient Hydroquinone, known to cause serious skin damage, Emblica is a safe, gentler combination of ingredients that achieve almost identical results. *Based upon clinical evaluation of dark spots

Highly Efficient Skin-Tone Corrector Key Formula Properties:

• Potent treatment formulated with 2% Emblica, 4% Glycolic Acid and 5% Hepes
• Efficacy equivalent to 2% Hydroquinone
• Clinically-Demonstrated* to correct the appearance of brown spots and uneven skin-tone
• Fades age spots, freckles, and post-acne scarring
• Addresses skin discoloration resulting from skin aging and environmental factors
• Lightweight gel for easy absorption and daily use over entire face

Size: 1 oz. / 50ml
Suggested Retail Price: $50.00
On Counter: January, 2009

weekend reads....from total beauty

Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog and Total Beauty give you the rundown on the 10 best breakthrough products for 2009.


All the single ladies, Beauty's SPOT found a suitable replacement for men in Elemis Exotic Frangipani Monoi Bath & Shower Cream.


Continuing a month of weekly giveaways, head on over to Bare Budget Beauty for your chance to win a set of Kiss My Face Sheer Organic Shimmer or Shine products!


Check out the new Tarte "Spring Greening" palette and A Perfect Whirled cheek stain with Beauty Junkies Unite!


Beauty Anonymous wears Jewel Lips.


Neon Bible checks out some great Valentine's Day gifts for men.


Alison Blackman aka. "Advice Sister Alison" finds out why TJMaxx and Marshalls really are a shopaholic's dream, and uncovers some of the "must-have" trends for Spring 2009.

Beauty411 is delighted with the Dior Spring 2009 Makeup Collection!

Viva Woman recommends you to use organic flowers on your face with Zuii Organic Floral Makeup and offers a 15% special discount for her readers.


Come see what mascara The Makeup Divas is raving about.


Indian Girl loves the simple fragrance of KENZO's Eau De Fleur - Magnolia


Just in time for Valentine's Day,eye4style is giving away a personal lingerie fitting and a bra and panty set from Eveden. Click here to enter!


Fabulous Over Forty has a FABULOUS Kiss My Face skincare giveaway worth over $200! Hurry - giveaway entrance ends on Sat.


Krista of Boutique Flair knows that silky smooth skin is one part of having a pulled together, stylish look. So, she loves this product!


Monique at Beauty Girl Musings reviews an at-home spa treatment that will leave your skin feeling and looking amazing. Read about it here!


Beauty Beast has been taking the new MAC Studio Sculpt Foundation for a test run. Find out what the verdict is byClicking here!


Glossypink shows you how to get Shopaholic's Isla Fisher's red-carpet look!


makeup loves me tells you about a bling-tastic valentine's day spa treatment. happy valentine's day!


The HomeSpaGoddess shares her thoughts on the new Revlon Matte Collection.


Julie at More than a Pretty Face reviews brow products from Japan and provides readers continual updates on promotions and specials for February 2009. In view of MAC's Helly Kitty collection, Stila's Barbie Loves Stila collection, and Too Faced's Smurfette collection, she asks, What is with the nostalgia craze?

To celebrate Valentine's Day, Daneen from Spoiled Pretty is sharing her love of Felix Rey with all of you. Enter to win an Emma Zip Top Cosmetics Case (retail value $90). Also enter to win all ten shades of CoverGirl Outlast Lipstains, and three tubes of CoverGirl LashBlast Luxe Mascara!

new crest whitestrips advanced seal

Being that tomorrow is Valentine's Day, we're sure that that means some puckering up for kisses from your significant other is in order.

Maybe even more though.

Although if that's the case, please refrain from sharing that info with us...a little TMI if you know what we mean.

Anywho, one thing you can do to get yourself ready is to get those pearly whites in top shape.

That's where these come in.

New Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seal ($39.99) will work to whiten your teeth, all while staying in place perfectly and not looking all hey everyone I have a tooth whitening strip on my teeth.

Meaning you can wear them while watching TV, running some errands, and (yes) maybe even while kissing your hubby or boyfriend.

Although that might be a little weird.

I mean Big L would be like why the heck are you kissing me while you have a Whitestrip on your teeth?

Seriously.

At least there is one man who doesn't mind puckering up while wearing one though...Fernando.

No, I'm not having an illicit affair ladies.

Fernando is featured on this new website from Crest called Kiss Me in 3D. On it you'll find Fernando and Olivia and have a chance to get smooched by one of them...in 3D.

Like really 3D.

As in you'd need the special glasses to be able to see the three dimensional action take place.

It's a little kitschy, but kinda cute and you can learn a little more about the product and sign up for special offers via email.

Plus the guy looks a little like Hal Sparks back in the day (fyi totally had a crush on Hal Sparks when he hosted Talk Soup).

So, do yourself a favor and check it out!

Oh...and stay tuned...we might have something coming up soon courtesy of the great people at Crest!

Try kissmein3d.com for more info!


Jennifer
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks

romance vmail with ralph lauren and giveaway

In celebration of the newest Ralph Lauren Fragrance, Romance Always Yours, the brand has created the Romance vMAIL, a virtual Valentine to share with the special person in your life.

Here's how it works:

First, you create a slideshow of images by uploading your own photos from Flickr, your computer or selecting from iconic Romance images shot by photographer Bruce Weber and featuring real-life model couple, Valentina & Luiz.

Next, you create a customized soundtrack for your slideshow. Choose from ten romantic tunes, including an exclusive (free!) downloadable track from the new Nat King Cole album of modern remixes.

Finally, share the love! The unique Romance vMAIL is shareable so email it to your boyfriend or husband or post it to your Facebook page or MySpace page, and other social networks.

Here's a link to the Romance vMAIL so you can check it out www.always-yours.com.

We also have a little giveaway with Ralph Lauren and Romance Always Yours. We have one bottle of this yummy perfume to give to one lucky reader. Here is a little bit more information about the perfume....

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the original Ralph Lauren Romance, perfumer Harry Fremont has created Always Yours, a more complex fragrance blend inspired by the deepening of a relationship. Fremont also created the original Romance, which remains a best-seller today.

Romance Always Yours is a Sensual Floral Chypre with top notes of Sun Goddess Rose, Yellow Freesia & Ginger; mid notes of Lotus Flower, White Violet & Fresh Daylily; and base notes of Patchouli Concentrate, Creamy Sensual Musk & Oak Moss. To celebrate the release, the fragrance is available not only as an Elixir de Parfum ($60-$75) but also as a very special Limited Edition Parfum ($225), which features a hand-crafted glass faceted dauber, reminiscent of the diamond - a traditional 10th wedding anniversary gift. The Romance Always Yours Elixir de Parfum will become a permanent part of the collection alongside the original Romance, a testament to the lasting commitment which inspired Always Yours.

Ralph Lauren Romance Always Yours is now available at department stores nationwide and at RalphLauren.com.

And now for the giveaway details.... to enter the giveaway, send us an email at beautyinreallifecontests@gmail.com with "Romance Giveaway" in the subject line. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address.

We will randomly select one winner February 23rd at 11pm est. The winner will be announced on Tuesday, February 24th!

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 February 23rd at 11:00 PM EST to enter.


Good luck!!


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 Ralph Lauren Fragrance for fulfillment and mailing of contest prize(s). If you fail to include that information we will disqualify your entry. One winner, chosen at random, will receive the prize mentioned. Duplicate entries will not improve your chances of winning. Giveaway sponsored by Ralph Lauren Fragrance. Some restrictions may apply. Open only to US residents only...sorry. Entries will be accepted through 11:00 pm EST on Monday, February 23rd..

olay total effects moisturizing vitamin complex plus spf 15

I kinda bought this on a whim at my local Target one day a couple of weeks ago.

Just needed a new moisturizer for day that had spf and didn't cost a million bucks...Big L just threw down one of his we need to watch the budget lectures that week.

So after picking up the basics and actually having some time to peruse the aisles, due to a well behaved Little L blissfully sitting in the cart, I decided on this under $20 buy.

What I love about it is that it feels great on and does the job as well as its more expensive counterparts.

Meaning well hydrated skin, delivers a more even skin tone, and imparts a fabulous glow.

All for a low price that keeps me out of the budget doghouse with Big L.

Honestly, that's probably the best part.

Try your local Target or online at olay.com for more info.


Jennifer
proud members of total beauty and the bbn networks