weekend reads...total beauty

The Informed Makeup Maven reviews Luminess' at home airbrush tanning system, Avon magix skin perfector; does summer Stila style and is giving away Diorshow Mascara and Maybelline Mineral Power Foundation!

Monique at Beauty Girl Musings shares her experience with the online shoe service, ShoeDazzle. Read about it here!

Boutique Flair reviews the Barielle 60 Second Mani-Pedi.

Meilily reviews Pacifica Avalon Juniper Perfume with exclusive product photos and shopping tips.

Beauty Junkies Unite goes to Kinara, gets a fab St. Tropez faux tan and gabs about it!

A Little More Beautiful has two great giveaways Urban Decay Primer Potion in Sin and Max Factor Lash Perfection Volume Couture Mascara ending on May 31st at Midnight and June 20th at Midnight! It's fast and easy to enter!

Beauty Anonymous brings you Visée summer 2009 makeup collection!

The Makeup Divas reviews Too Faced Locked Down Cream Eyeshadows plus the new summer lip bronzer in Pink Leopard.

Beauty Banter dishes on must-have tips for staying young in surf and sun!

Fabulous Over Forty attends a makeup class with Lancome artist Alex Sanchez.

eye4style is all lit up over Delirium & Co. Candles. Read her review here!

The Beauty Couch has thirteen tips for Simplifying Your Beauty Routine that will save time without sacrificing your look.

Lipgloss Break is running a giveaway for 5 White Sand Smudge Texture Cremes!

Addicted to Lipstick gives us swatches from the Mac Style Warrior Collection plus she tells us all about The New Mac Naked Honey Collection

Enter to win a Beautyticket.com $50 gift certificate at Face Candy.

Alison Blackman of the Advice Sistersattended the 2009 Fragrance Foundation FIFI Awardsr and created a celebrity photo albumfeaturing Paris Hilton, Marc Jacobs, Sean Combs, Queen Latifah, Ernest & Tova Borgnine, Lisa & Dustin Hoffman, Hilary Rhoda, and more!

image and style news shows us the top hairstyles trends for 2009

LA Pretty is giving away a Glowelle 7 day kit to two lucky readers. Glowelle is one of the hottest things in skin care, so don't miss your chance to try it out for yourself! Find out the details here!

Hot Beauty Health discusses her new love for eau fragrance Fresh Mangosteen and the top beauty health products for 2009.

Sweeten Up Your Visage with Elique Organic Skin Food.

The Working Girl from Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog shares a secret while singing the praises of an acne treatment.

bobbi brown illuminating bronze collection

Here is another fabulous collection from Bobbi Brown. The Illuminating Bronze Collection features several new products to help you achieve that golden tan without having to bask in the sun's harmful rays all summer. (click on the pictures to view larger images)

The collection includes Bobbi's new limited-edition Shimmer Brick for Body ($75). This lightweight silky powder can be used anywhere you want to add a glow. This oversized compact features three bars of color and can be applied with Bobbi's limited-edition All Over Body Brush ($85). Designed with ultra soft bristles, it is perfect for sheer, even application.

Also new in this collection is Bobbi's Illuminating Bronzing Powder ($33). Ultra-soft and smooth, this pressed powder features a unique and innovative blend of sheer powder and micro pearls for smooth and even application that will leave skin with a sheer natural-looking glow.

In addition, Bobbi introduces her All Over Bronzing Gel SPF 15 in Golden Sun ($28). This gel-based bronzer instantly gives the face a healthy, natural-looking glow with the added benefit of sun protection!

Bobbi's Illuminating Bronze Collection will be on counter beginning June 2009. Or you can check out bobbibrown.com. We haven't had a chance to check out these goodies in person, but I have a feeling one us will be checking out a Bobbi Brown counter soon.

Christine

weekend reads...beauty blog network

The Makeup Divas reviews Too Faced Locked Down Cream Eyeshadows plus the new summer lip bronzer in Pink Leopard.

A Touch of Blusher comes across some of the best makeup brushes.

Beauty Junkie in SF happily tested out a ton of H20 + Sun products last weekend. Out on a lake in the sun all day long... someone had to do it.

Face Candy shares 2 of her favorite Orange products.

Decorative Diva visits a hidden gem of a day spa and has her first professional facial!

Beauty Anonymous brings you Essie summer 2009 collection.

attention qvc and bobbi brown addicts...

Legendary makeup artist, author and entrepreneur Bobbi Brown is scheduled to make three, one-hour QVC appearances this Saturday, May 30 at midnight, 11 AM and 5 PM (ET) to share her unique beauty philosophy, revolutionary cosmetics and expert advice.

Her signature line of wearable, natural looking makeup - Bobbi Brown Cosmetics will be showcased throughout the day offering QVC shoppers a selection of new and best selling items.

Bobbi Brown Cosmetics are currently available through QVC at 800.345.1515 and QVC.com.

Get your credit cards ready!


Jennifer and Christine

beauty buys under $10 - avon ultra color rich extra plump lipstick

Just releasing this month is Ultra Color Rich Extra Plump Lipstick ($8) from Avon.

This lipstick definitely allows your pout to take center stage through great color and plumping action.

The center core is where all of the magic takes place. It's packed with plumping mojo and intensely hydrating moisturizers.

The lippie smells like cinnamon and you can actually feel your lips tingling when you apply it.

That's so you know the formula is working.

While I must admit, I'm totally not a lipstick wearer...this does deliver on color and it also makes your lips feel soft. I also liked how it went on smoothly even though I didn't apply a balm first.

It's also available in 10 shades:

Apricot Shimmer
Pink Sunset
Blond Ambition
Plump Pink
Caramel Mauve
Rosewood
Coco Plump
Starlet Red
Deep Blush
Winerose

We had the chance to recently participate in a Lip Cast with Avon that featured the fabulous Jillian Dempsey...the celeb makeup artist for Avon.

Dempsey raved about how easily this color went on and gave us her fave shade for the summer months...Caramel Mauve.

To find an Avon e-representative near you, visit shop.avon.com/shop/find_a_rep.asp. You could also call 1-800-FOR-AVON or just visit avon.com.


Jennifer

korres silicone free face primer

We've been on a little bit of a natural kick lately.

Not to worry though, neither one of us is going to be turning full-on granola any time soon...but the latest offerings from some pretty major all-natural brands have us intrigued.

Take this for instance...

Korres Natural Products recently launched the first-ever silicone free primer...turns out it actually sold out in only 6-weeks.

Here's a little description that really has us wanting to test it out...

This innovative natural and organic formula [98.93% natural/ 11.19% out of which organic], based on a blend of soothing natural and botanical ingredients, refines skin texture by reducing redness, uneven or dull skin tones and creates a non oily, silky film, acting as a barrier between skin and makeup revealing a long-lasting radiant skin. Packed with antioxidant, nourishing vitamin E, Jojoba and Sunflower oils and Edelweiss extract. This silky, fast-absorbing formulation acts as a layer, keeping skin elastic and comfortable, while ensuring smooth, long-lasting make-up application.

We were lucky enough to get our hands on a sample and are in the process of testing, so we'll be sure to let you know how it turns out!

Just in case you can't wait and want to try to get your hands on it sooner, log onto korresusa.com to be alerted when it's back in-stock or go to your local Sephora store to pick up a sample!


Jennifer and Christine

redken color extend sun collection

Before we left for our family vacation last month, I was worried about what I was going to do with my hair. I knew before we even got there, that we would be in the pool and at the beach everyday. While I love getting a tan (yes, with sunscreen applied frequently), I dread what happens to my hair once chlorine and saltwater enter the picture. Since I have blonde hair, chlorine likes to turn it a lovely shade of green, while the saltwater turns it into a rat nest. I had 3 different shampoo/conditioner combos I was ready to bring and thought it was a bit overkill but I knew what laid ahead.

Well....literally the day before we left, I went over to Jenn's to hang out and talk blog business and we had received Redken's New Color Extend Sun shampoo, conditioner and a leave-in smoother. Jenn let me be the guinea pig for this one. I was really hesitant to bring it with me...I do not have a good track record with Redken and their hair products. There have been one or two I would consider buying again, but for the most part their shampoos weren't right for me.

I owe Redken some credit, I actually like this new line. Not only does it help get rid of the chlorine and salt it also helps to protect highlights, safeguards color and replenishes sun-stressed strands. I really like the shampoo. I didn't use it everyday, but the days where I was in the pool/ocean a lot, I definitely used it. The conditioner I thought for sure would be too heavy on my fine strands, but it detangles well and left my hair feeling really nice and soft. Less is definitely more with this one. I didn't use this every time I used the shampoo, I thought it would be too much. I haven't had a chance to try the Sparkling Shield Leave-in Smoother, but it looks like it has some particles in it to make your hair nice and shiny....I would spray it either right before you jumped in the pool or right after you get out. The Leave-in is suppose to help provide water-resistant protection against UVA/UVB rays, chlorine and minerals while creating a sleek, polished finish. Our pool just opened last weekend, and it's rained almost every day since, but the second it's decent out we will be there and I will have this in my bag with me to try out, especially now that I just got the highlights redone.

I can't seem to find a firm price on any of the three items...looks like each one is somewhere between $12 and $15 depending on where you can find it. I know Ulta carries it, but only in the stores, not online. For more information check out redken.com.

Christine

this just in...chantecaille sample sale in nyc

If you live in the NYC area, definitely check out this sample sale from Chantecaille. It's only going on today, tomorrow, and Friday, so you better throw on your running shoes and get over there ASAP!

Click the flyer above for an enlarged version. Makes it easier to read the deets.

Jennifer and Christine

max factor 2000 calorie extreme lash plumper mascara

All I could think of when I saw this mascara is this is the Bizzaro version of Lash Blast.

Know what I mean?

Remember the Super Friends a la Saturday Morning Cartoons via the 70's?

Some episodes featured their Bizarro twins, who were exactly like the Super Friends in every way except that they wore like grey outfits with black accents (or something like that) and were evil.

Well...alright...no...this mascara isn't evil in any way.

It just reminds me of Lash Blast in every way. Both bottles are shaped the same way. The brush is identical but blue instead of orange.

The formula also seems similar, but I really feel that CG's Lash Blast beats this one out by a small margin.

Either way, Max Factor's 2000 Calorie Extreme Lash Plumper Mascara delivers on it's promise to define and plump up my lashes, as well as last throughout the day until I take it off.

A couple of times I did notice a little bit of flaking, but it didn't happen all of the time so I'm not sure what that was about.

The bottom line is this, both are great mascaras and one (CG's Lash Blast) is priced lower than the other.

I'm planning on sticking with Lash Blast myself...but that's just me.

Try maxfactor.com for more info on their new 2000 Calorie Extreme Lash Plumper Mascara.


Jennifer

giveaway with beautyfix...the winners

We have mentioned Beautyfix before and we really enjoy it. We love seeing what each "fix" has in it and fighting over who gets what. Beautyfix is a program where you sign up and $49.99 a quarter and each quarter you will receive your Beautyfix. It usually has somewhere between 7 and 10 beauty products - some sample sized and some are full sized and you also get a great little cosmetics bag. It's a great way to sample some products for each season before you buy them. You can also go to beautyfix.com and leave your feedback for the products as well.

The generous people of Beautyfix have given us the green light to giveaway......wait for it........15 Beautyfix 2 sets. Amazing right?!

The Beautyfix 2 (the second quarter of beautyfix) contains everything you see in the picture plus the black cosmetic bag not pictured. Included is 3Lab M Cream, Bella Bronze Self Tanner, Bella Bronze Tan Extender, Exuviance Rejuvenating Treatment Masque, Global Goddess eyeshadow, Glowelle 7 day set, Jonathan Finish Control Hairspray, Kerstin Florian Aromatherapy Neroli Water, and Lisa Hoffman Beauty Vitamin A & C Serum.

For more information on the products included in the giveaway and for more information on the program, please visit beautyfix.com.

Now for the long list of winners:

Claire B.,

Elaine C.,

Amy S.,

Zoe H.,

Sarah R.,

Kristina D.,

Holly C.,

Kristin S.,

Maria B.,

Catherine L.,

McKenzie B.,

Joyce M.,

Danielle Y.,

Kayleen R.,

and last but not least....Kristi P.

Congratulations!!!

Check back soon for another giveaway announcement!!

Jennifer and Christine

nutri system challenge....week 1

Eight days ago I started the Nutri-System challenge....and I'll admit it's been a little rough for me. When we were offered to try it, I was very excited and thought it was perfect timing before major swimsuit season and it would finally help me to lose those stubborn 5 pounds I can't seem to make budge. And since Jenn is preggers, I was the lucky one to partake in the month long challenge. So at least once a week I will update everyone on my progress...and I'm keeping it honest.

I decided to try the Women's Basic Plan (there are 4 different plans...Basic, Silver, Diabetic and Vegetarian). I also opted for the Members Favorite, where they pre-pick all the food. You can also custom select all of your food, but since I had never done anything like this before, I let them send whatever the popular items were. You get 3 meals a day, plus a snack and a dessert.

All 28 days of food showed up on my doorstep in one big box. It was a Friday, so I decided the following Monday would be D-Day (diet day). The food all comes prepackaged, most things you either have to add hot water to or pop in the microwave for about a minute. The only thing you have to add is all the veggies, fruit, dairy and protein. You get a book where you check off each item for each meal and write in what you have eaten.

So far, I haven't lost much weight, maybe a pound or two. The reason I don't really know yet, is last week was that special time in a girl's life and my weight fluctuates a lot during those few days...(side note....when you are PMSing, it is NOT a good idea to start a diet...I craved chocolate the whole week and was not a happy camper).

The actual food has been interesting. Everything is very loaded with protein, so I feel full before I finish. I have had a couple items I have enjoyed and a couple I rather forget about. But to it's credit, it very quickly made me realize a few things: I don't eat enough fruit and veggies, my portion control was really out of whack, and I usually just had coffee in the mornings until lunch - not a good idea.

Since I said I was going to keep it honest, I totally didn't follow it this weekend. We were out 2 of the 3 days for multiple meals, although I did think twice before ordering and at the party we went to, I totally restrained myself from the insanely delicious catered food, and made sure to have more fruit and veggies than anything else. Today, I am feeling guilty for the weekend so I have rededicated myself to the challenge.

Check back next week for the Week 2 update. Hopefully I will have lost another pound or two!

Christine

tarte summer 2009

Even though it's not actually the first day of summer, this weekend definitely makes everyone feel that summer is right around the corner.

One of our fave brands, Tarte, has already released their summer collection for 2009.

Loving pretty much everything I'm seeing.

First off, they're adding a new natural cheek stain to their lineup...this one being a shimmery coral color called eco-cheek.

You know how much I adore their stains.

Another addition that's got my attention is celluFIGHT ($40). It's being billed as a natural anti-cellulite self tanner that my thighs are screaming out for around this time of the year. I mean, really, they will not see sunlight unless they're in check.

It is said to work on all skin tones and is formulated with skinTIGHT complex™ a proprietary anti-cellulite complex that firms and tones skin while improving elasticity.

Plant and bio-nutrient extracts boost cellular metabolism shedding excess fat tissue. Caffeine (green tea extract) helps stimulate blood flow immediately reducing "the orange peel" effect (i.e. dimpling) on problem areas such as waist, hips, thighs and buttocks. This anti-cellulite self-tanner contains clinically-proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that prevent the long-term build-up of fat tissue under the skin.

Considering lipo won't be happening anytime soon, and nothing else can give you immediate results...it's something that's worth a shot at least I figure.

I'll be testing this one out and give you the 411, once I've had the chance to see what happens.

Another item that's got my attention is their eyeQuatic waterproof summer essentials set ($35).

It comes with a with a mod headscarf, as well as 3 mermaid-inspired lock & roll creaseless cream & powder shadow duos and a deluxe lights, camera, splashes! waterproof mascara.

Just as an fyi, the lock & roll shade descriptions are...turquoise, citrine, and tanzanite.

All should look insanely perfect with your summertime (faux) glow.

You can find Tarte at tarte.com, Sephora, sephora.com, beauty.com, Henri Bendel, and boutiques nationwide.


Jennifer

weekend reads...total beauty

The Informed Makeup Maven shares highlights from the NYC Makeup show and talks mineral makeup with Obsessed Minerals founder, Michael Huwe. Don't forget to join IMM's facebook group!


Beauty Anonymous loves the fresh floral scents of Bond No.9 Astor Place Eau de Parfum.

Kyl at The Beauty Couch is seriously loving the new By Lauren Luke My Smokey Classics palette.

Get serious coverage that is no joke with these 2 fab concealers that Beauty Junkies Unite tried, even tattoos better duck and take cover!

Boutique Flair reviews the Kiss My Face Potent & Pure line.

A Little More Beautiful has 2 giveaways going onUrban Decay Primer Potion in Sin and Max Factor Lash Perfection Volume Couture ending in May and June.

Fabulous Over Forty has a mineral makeup giveaway. Contest ends soon!

The Makeup Divas reviews the new Prescriptives Exhilarating lipgloss in Guava and lipstick in Raspberry.


Neon Bible's new guy writer talks about how to get your guy to get a haircut that costs more than $9.00.


Lipgloss Break has a double giveaway - Enter to Win Wrinkle Arrest DermaScyne & healthDropz!


StyleBell reviews the latest Damp to Dry Flat Iron by HAI Elite, the HaiDraStik. Read if StyleBell gives it a thumbs up or a thumbs down.


Beautè Noire discovers how to get the smoothest, softest, glossiest legs ever!

Jamie, The Working Girl from Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog, shares her after-work spa regimen.

Lipstickaddict makes a review on The Body Shop Productsfrom Spa Wisdom Line, Yes Yes Yes Tantalising Lip Butter and Body Focus Bust Firmer!

Alison at The Advice Sisters (follow her on Twitter - advicesisters) tempts you to try Treats for Summer by TARTE.

makeup loves me gives you the swatches you need to decide if MAC's new style warrior collection is right for you!

eye4style is glossy and fabulous, thanks to the Brazilian Blowout at Maria Bonita. Read about it here!

Hot Beauty Health show us how Shea Butter enhances women beauty.

Monique at Beauty Girl Musings reviews the Rx for Brown Skin Absolute Radiance Intensive Exfoliating Serum.

LA Pretty is giving away a Fruits & Passion pedicure set for a luxurious, at-home foot treatment. Click here for contest details.

Maria at Beauty is Within reviews Eye Majic Instant Eyes.

addicted to lipstick is having a Kiss My Face Giveaway for Oily and Acne Prone Skin be sure to enter to win!

Summer Fun Locks easy fun curls get the scoop!

weekend reads...beauty blog network

Raging Rouge blows her diet with a 2,000 calorie treat by MAX Factor.

Your chance to win 'The Swerve' , the world’s first “full body groomtool” at Beauty and Personal Grooming. Click here to enter the giveaway!!

Beauty Anonymous loves the fresh floral scents of Bond No.9 Astor Place Eau de Parfum.

The Makeup Divas reviews the new Prescriptives Exhilarating lipgloss in Guava and lipstick in Raspberry.

A Touch of Blusher stops by Dolce & Gabbana's makeup counter in London.

StyleBell reviews the latest Damp to Dry Flat Iron by HAI Elite, the HaiDraStik. Read if StyleBell gives it a thumbs up or a thumbs down.

ThisThatBeauty has found her signature RED lipstick. Check out Lipstick Queen Red Sinner.


Decorative Diva's reviews a new sweet treat, The Body Bakery's Arm Candy Deodorant.

beauty buys under $10 - liplicious lip glosses from bath and body works

This is how my mind works.

As soon as I heard the name of this product, I could not get Destiny's Child Bootylicious out of my head.

Seriously.

It's still swimming around in there as I type this.

Anyway...I loves me some lip gloss in a tube and these are just to adorable to pass up.

What makes these so great is that they taste and smell like fruit and give your lips major shine. True, they aren't going to last very long, but they're only $7 each so it's not going to hurt your wallet in the long run.

Oh yeah...they also have Vitamin E and jojoba oils to soften, smooth and condition your lips.

They're available in a lot of different shades and/or flavors, but here's two that are calling my name...

Orange Kiss ($7 left)

Described as a juicy, vibrant coral shade with a sheer, high-shine gloss...with a mouth-watering orange cream flavor


Fruit Punch ($7 seen above)

A vividly vibrant pink that glistens with pink and silver shimmer...uh...hello...love pink and anything that has a little bit of shimmer to it.

The absolute best part is that Liplicious glosses are available at Bath & Body Works and online at bathandbodyworks.com.

Plus, right now, online they're available for buy two get one free.

Who can pass that up?

Oh and in case you haven't started singing Bootylicious yet, here's the video to get you there...enjoy.



Jennifer

$1 flip flops at old navy

I mean...you totally need to stop by Old Navy tomorrow even if the crowds are going to be insane.

When can you pick up $1 flip flops at the mall and they aren't from the dollar store?


Jennifer

clairol natural instincts

I have to admit, it's been a while since I've colored my hair at home.

Mainly for two reasons.

One, I'm hella messy with the application process. Not to say that the applicators they provide aren't great...they are...I'm just ridiculously and bizarrely sloppy when I apply and tend to get drops everywhere.

Two, I've been highlighting my hair lately and would never trust myself to do that at home. Never.

Anyway, that's not to say that I wouldn't ever try coloring at home again.

The ability to avoid making an appointment and getting it done in a salon is very tempting and the amount of money saved is a no-brainer.

I mean if Big L ever found out how much it really cost to maintain the fabulosity of my color, he'd freak.

One of my fave color-at-home products is Clairol Natural Instincts demi-permanent haircolor.

It contains no ammonia and it gradually washes out in about 28 shampoos. It also gives my hair a little more body and makes it feel crazy soft.

That said, here's a couple of tips from the pros at Clairol on how to save money with at-home color through color extension.

*Once you color your hair, make sure you keep it looking fresh by shampooing every other day, or every third day even! When you do shampoo, use products specially formulated for color-treated hair.

My take: Some of my faves are from Kerastase and Pureology...but there are some great drugstore brands by L'Oreal and others that really can maintain the life of your color.

*To save some money and extend your hair color, try a product like Natural Instincts. It is incredibly easy to use and low maintenance because it is non-permanent and you won’t see a visible root line. It’s a great way to boost your hair color in between appointments and blend new growth into your hair color.

If you're starting to notice some gray hairs...ahem, like moi...here's also some gray hair myths and truths that you might find interesting...

Ever wonder if the “myths” you’ve heard about gray hair are really true? Believe it or not, these “facts” are generally false. For starters, gray hair isn’t actually gray at all! When you start to go “gray,” your body is telling your hair follicle to stop producing melanin, the pigment that gives hair its color. These strands are actually colorless or transparent and may look gray, white, silver or even yellow to the eye.

Gray hair is a sign of old age

Fiction: First grays can appear at any age, but on average, women begin going gray at age 34.

Coloring your hair makes it more gray

Fiction: Coloring your hair does not cause additional gray hairs. Hair color will blend or fully cover the grays you currently have. Natural Instincts provides a healthier way to blend away your grays and gives beautiful, natural looking color and shine.

All gray hair grows in coarse and wiry

Fiction: When you notice that first gray, it is most likely a coarse, wiry hair sticking out of your head. It just happens to be the gray hair you see first because it’s so different. In reality your hair grows at all different thickness.

Your hair can return to its natural color even after going gray

Fiction: Once a strand loses its color, it will never return.

If you pluck one gray hair, two more will grow in its place.

Fiction: Your body grows gray hairs one by one. If you pull one gray hair it will be replaced by a gray hair in the exact same spot.

A shocking or stressful event can cause you to go gray.

Fact: While there are many conflicting arguments over this, high stress or shocking events have been known to cause hair to change to gray.


Thanks to the team at Clairol for these tips and gray hair myths! Although I am dying a little inside with every gray hair I find...it's reassuring to know that I can just cover those suckers up with some demi-permanent color.

For more info on Clairol's Natural Instincts, head on over to clairol.com/naturalinstincts. You can also find it at any Target, Walmart, CVS, and local grocery stores.


Jennifer

dolce and gabbana light blue

A stunning perfume, overwhelming and irresistible like the joy of living. Surprising and colored: the liveliness of Sicilian citron, the happiness of Granny Smith apple, the spontaneity of bluebells. Feminine and resolute: the intensity of jasmine, the freshness of bamboo, the charm of white rose. Deep and true: the character of cedarwood, the fullness of amber, the embrace of musk.

Did you get all of that?

First, let me apologize for the late post....my little MJ had his first "emergency boo-boo" this morning that required a trip to the dentist...his first trip to the dentist ever, but he is fine. And I'm starting to feel a little better too.

Back to Light Blue...

Do I feel the happiness of Granny Smith apples when I wear it?

Well....no, but I really enjoy wearing it. It is beyond perfect for the summer months. You all know how picky I am about my scents. This is one is light and refreshing and then gets a little heavier, but never overpowering. Did that sound like I know what I'm talking about? Basically, it's light and clean and I could see myself using this as my go-to scent for the next few months.

You can pick this up at most stores that carry fragrances. Sephora has it with free shipping (if you spend over $50). Depending on what size bottle you want, the price ranges from around $45 for the smallest, up to $80 for the biggest bottle.

Next time you pass this in a store, I strongly urge you to stop and take a little sniff...I think you will like it.

Christine

limited edition "super sized" pro products from june jacobs

For the first time ever, June Jacobs is offering professional “super size” products at wholesale prices which are heavily discounted – it is an amazing deal.

These are basically jumbo products that are used in the treatment rooms at spas around the world, but Jacobs wanted to offer them to consumers too so they can actually save money by indulging.

For a limited time, June Jacobs will be offering a selection of her spa grade beauty essentials in professional sizes at wholesale prices as a very special offer for consumers who don’t want to give up the everyday luxuries they can’t live without.

These same products are used behind the scenes at top spas nationwide such as the Mandarin Oriental in New York City, Little Nell in Aspen, Canyon Ranch in Las Vegas and Tucson and internationally at The Plateau Spa at the Grand Hyatt in Hong Kong and the Four Seasons in Mexico City.

The more you buy, the more you save, so stock up on the following top selling June Jacobs products at deeply discounted prices:

Creamy Cranberry Cleanser - $68 for 32 fl oz (regular price is $201.14 a savings of 34%)

Vanda Orchid Body Balm - $96 for 32 fl oz (regular price is $274.29, a 35% savings)

Green Tea & Cucumber Body Balm - $77 for 32 fl oz (regular price is $238.81, a 32% savings)

Grapefruit Purifying Shower Gel - $46 for 32 fl oz (regular price is $143.28, a savings 32%)

Trust me, the bottles are ginormous and will definitely last you a pretty long time.

All of the products are available in professional sizes at wholesale pricing for a limited time exclusively at junejacobs.com.


Jennifer

5 minutes, 5 questions with joanna schlip*

We were beyond thrilled that the Joanna Schlip agreed to let us interview her for the blog.

She's currently Physicians Formula Celebrity Makeup Artist and has worked with some of the most celebrated people in the entertainment industry.

Plus we love watching her on Style Her Famous, whenever she happens to be on.

Always a nice surprise.

Anyway, here are our questions about summer beauty and here's what she said. Enjoy!


What's the best way to achieve that quintessential California sun-kissed look?

To get a healthy, sun-kissed look without stepping into the sun is to use bronzer! Choose a color two shades deeper than your natural skin tone. I prefer a powder bronzer. The easiest way to apply is with a kabuki or rounded end brush. Start with back and forth movements on your forehead, down to the bridge of your nose, across your chin, under your jaw line and anywhere else that might be showing. Remember to blend! In this case, it is important to choose a blush that is peach, coral or copper.



Sometimes we love to play up our eyes, any tips or tricks to get them to really pop?

A) Color...Color...Color. Draw attention to your eyes by using a lavender wash. There is nothing more beautiful and it complements every eye color.

B) When it comes to making your eyes pop lashes can be your best explanation point. Instead of applying one coat, apply two and remember to curl your lashes first. Always use black.

C) Another way to draw attention to your eyes is a sexy, smoky eye. Take a kohl pencil and line the inner wet line and upper and lower lash lines. Smudge, smudge, smudge and voila! And remember, you don't have to stick to black. Try coppers, charcoals, cabernets, purples, and navies – they all look amazing. Keep your lips nude or neutral in color to balance the look.



Do you have any suggestions on how to avoid makeup meltdown during the summer months?

Less is more. So, instead of using a moisturizer and then a foundation, use a tinted moisturizer to get the look you want. As far as color, use a powdered blush, powdered eyeshadows and lip stains with a gloss. This will last even through the hottest of days or nights.



What are the top five beauty products you can't live without?

Concealer, an eyebrow pencil, travel-friendly blush, powder and black mascara


Thanks Joanna!

If you'd like to learn a little bit more about Joanna, check out her bio page on the Physicians Formula site. To learn more about Physicians Formula products, head on over to physiciansformula.com.


Jennifer and Christine

*Okay, okay...we know...there are only 4 questions here and not five. Well, somehow she only had time to answer 4 questions instead of the usual...so it's really 4 Questions 4 Minutes with Joanna Schlip. Considering that really didn't fit in with our regular title...we just went ahead and left it as it was and provided the cool little asterisk and kind of pointless explanation. Are you happy now?

harry slatkin receives the living legend award

The fabulous Harry Slatkin, he of the amazing home fragrance Slatkin & Co. brand, recently received the “Legends” award from Allure magazine Editor-in-Chief Linda Wells at the American Society of Perfumers Luncheon and 55th Annual Fragrance Symposium at the Manhattan Marriot Marquis on Thursday, May 7th.

The Living Legend award is given to a “unique and talented person who has distinguished him or herself over the years with their body of creative work, their contribution to the fragrance industry and also their contribution to society.” In receiving this award, Mr. Slatkin joins an extraordinary list of past honorees including Oscar de la Renta, Gianni Versace, Oleg Cassini, Karyn Khoury and Estee Lauder.

Allure magazine’s Editor-in-Chief Linda Wells gave a funny and touching speech about Harry saying he was “instrumental in taking a fringe object hidden away in the home department of a department store and moving it front-and-center to the beauty department.” Harry’s speech was humbling and compelling when he said, “it’s a great honor, although I always thought a legend award comes at the end of one’s career, but don’t count me out just yet, I still have a lot of sniffing left to do.”

He also thanked the perfumers in the room for educating him and being a part of the great success that Slatkin & Co. candles have achieved. He paid tribute to his wife of 18 years, Laura Slatkin who co-founded Slatkin & Co. with him and added, “Laura, this award is to be shared 50-50 with you..”.

In place of handing out gift bags at the event, this year the following companies Bath & Body Works, Robertet and Givaudan donated $1,000 to Harry and Laura Slatkin’s New York Center for Autism in recognition of Slatkin’s son, David, who is autistic.

We love his answer to the question below...

With all the success you’ve achieved, what does the Living Legend Award from the American Society of Perfumers mean?

As I was sitting and listening to my dear friend Linda Wells and all the kind words she had to say about me, it was her remarks about the difference I have made in the industry and that the name Slatkin will go down in history for home fragrance that made me very proud. I have made a mark and I did change the industry into a behemoth. People will never live without home scent and I am glad that I have made so many people happy who use my products. And thank goodness it is a Living Legend award and not something in memoriam!

For more information about Harry Slatkin or to purchase Slatkin & Co. candles, visit bathandbodyworks.com.


Jennifer and Christine
photo credit (c) 2009 Photo Baude.

giveaway with neulash and anastasia...the winner

Today we announce the winner of our giveaway with neuLash and Anastasia. Total retail price for this giveaway is around $175, so this was a big one.

One winner will receive one box of neuLash and one Brow Definer from Anastasia.

What is neuLash you ask? Well, it's a new eyelash enhancer that helps promote fuller and more luxurious-looking lashes. Apparently, no matter how short, brittle, thin or sparse your lashes are, this serum can help in just 30 days. Now, we here are Beauty in Real Life have not tried this so we are not able to comment how on well it works. If you enter this contest and win, we would love to hear how it works at the end of the 30 days. neuLash is sold for $150 and can more information can be found at neuLash.com.

neuLash is ophthalmologist safety-tested and is ideal for women and men, brittle, weak, thin, or short eyelashes, contact lens wearers, those who have eyelash extensions, or those who have undergone radiation treatment. neuLash can also be used to improve the appearance of sparse, thin eyebrows. Clinical studies have found neuLash to be safe and gentle to eyes, yet extremely powerful in its stimulating and rejuvenating properties.

We are also throwing in an Anastasia Brow Definer ($22), so once you have those beautiful lashes you can highlight them with some maintained brows. The brow definer is a dual ended Brow Pencil and Brow Gel work together to create perfectly shaped brows. Use the velvety Ultimate Brown Brow Pencil to precisely fill and define. Use the Clear Brow Gel to keep unruly brows in place all day without flaking. We love multi-tasking beauty items (anything to get the job done faster) and to have a pencil and the brow gel in one item is brilliant! For more info on this and other Anastasia products, check out her website at anastasia.net.

And now for the winner......

Congratulations to Natasha E.!!!

If you weren't the lucky winner today, don't forget to enter our Beautyfix 2 Giveaway!!!

Jennifer and Christine

fab gwp from clinique, trina turk, and nordstrom

My mom-in-law will literally wait until her fave brand, Clinique, offers a gwp before getting what she needs.

So that means that if she has to wait until her beloved cleanser and moisturizer almost or actually runs out, so be it.

She'll be so psyched to see this...guaranteed.

Trina Turk and Clinique have paired together again to create a perfect little gwp.

Summer Essentials From Clinique And Trina Turk

Beginning May 20, 2009 and only at Nordstrom, you can pick up this limited-edition cosmetics bag stuffed with Turk's favorite Clinique must-haves.

Is the bag not just to-die?

Inside the bag you'll find seven hand-picked, travel sized, tried-and-true summertime staples:

Lash Doubling Mascara in Black
Different Lipstick in Tenderheart
Blushwear Cream Stick in Rosy Blush
Superfit Makeup (choose from three shades)
Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion
Colour Surge Eye Shadow Duo in Sunburst
Take The Day Off Makeup Remover for Lids, Lashes & Lips

The Trina Turk for Clinique Gift is available free* with any purchase of $25 or more. Considering that it's actually a $65 value, that's not too shabby at all.

Everything is available exclusively at Clinique counters at Nordstrom stores nationwide and nordstrom.com beginning May 20, 2009 through June 6, 2009...I would also assume that it's until supplies last too.

For more information on store locations and your Trina Turk for Clinique, please visit clinique.com and nordstrom.com.

weekend reads...total beauty

The Informed Makeup Maven talks new products to try this month , reviews Benefit's Dr Feelgood, Clinique's High Impact Curling Mascara, The Bodyshop's Eye, Lip and Cheek Palette, invites you to join the Informed Makeup Maven Facebook group to share and socialise all things beauty, and hosts the Makeup Confessions giveaway (2 double packs of Softlips Raspberry and Strawberry lip balm).


Meredith at Daily Dose of Coffee is looking for ways to economize. Check out her tips for getting a salon-quality hair glossing treatment at home.


Beauty Anonymous reviews Shiseido's Tiss Deep Off Oil.

This week, The Beauty Couch asks (and answers!) the question: Can wearing sunscreen lead to Vitamin D deficiency?

Check in with Amber at Beauty Junkies Unite as she completes her first month on NutriSystem and is giving away an entire month of the NutriSystem plan and food to one very lucky reader!

Lipgloss Break has partnered with UMI hair products to giveaway UMI S Liquid & UMI d Fuse! Enter up to once a day!

Brittny Gatineau dishes on her favorite beauty products exclusively to Beauty Banter!

Before time runs out, enter Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog's Watch Giveaway for a chance to win a man's stainless steel $290 watch or a woman's $190 watch.

Meilily is giving away Spring Bridal Makeup from Benefit Cosmetics!

Beautè Noire and Whole Foods are giving away a Mineral Fusion Cosmetics Spring Blossom Color Kit worth $90!

Find out what Smashbox product The Makeup Divas uses to achieve a perfect smoldering smoky eye.

On a budget? Monique at Beauty Girl Musings shares 10 beauty items for under $10 each-- take that recession!

Addicted to Lipstick tells all about the new Urban Decay Primer Potion wand.

Boutique Flair is giving away $225 worth of Sustainable Youth swag! Enter by 05/24/09.

LA Pretty is giving away an item from Givenchy's Summer 2009 makeup collection to one lucky reader! Find out all the details here.

Cybelesays.com has discovered the perfect makeup primer for the summer heat. Click here to read more.

The Shades Of U is giving away a bottle of Lancome Magnifique Eau de Toilette. Enter to win!

A Little More Beautiful is giving away 1 Urban Decay Primer Potion in Sin so head on over and enter to win!

Alison of the Advice Sisters reviewed a unique, "Green" product a href="http://www.advicesisters.net/2009/05/pocketflops-make-travel-and-walking.html" target="_blank">POCKETFLOPS with Obama's photo, and other great designs. Check them out--just in time for warmer weather!

Glossypink tells you how to get Jessica Biel's latest red carpet look!

The Beauty Alchemist wants to give you A Lancome Magnifique Fragrance

eye4style paid a visit to the new Memoire Liquide counter at Bloomingdale's!

Two lucky winners will get clear and beautiful skin- the natural way! Visit MissWhoever You Are for the Kiss My Face Giveaway!!

This week, Spoiled Pretty is partnering with Ojon for a giveaway. Three lucky winners will receive Tawaka Ancient Tribal Rejuvenating Cleanser and Conditioner (a $64 value)! This unique duo cleanses and conditions hair, leaving it soft, silky and manageable.

weekend reads...beauty blog network

Beauty Anonymous reviews Shiseido's Tiss Deep Off Oil.

Decorative Diva reviews a new hair accessory find, the Flexi-8 hair clips.

Find out what Smashbox product The Makeup Divas uses to achieve a perfect smoldering smoky eye.

A Touch of Blusher adds another lilac eye palette to the stash.

ThisThatBeauty reviews Lipstick Queen's latest collection, CHINATOWN. It is PURE FIRE!!! Check it out.


Beauty Junkie in SF Lindsey Lohan moves into the realm of beauty with her Sevin Nyne Tanning Mist.

kérastase...it's their treat

Honestly, when are you going to be able to get something...anything...for free these days.

Especially when that free something is courtesy of Kerastase and the value of said free item is valued at over $100.

Just in case you're wondering, this is something that I already took advantage of. I mean, are you kidding me?

Kerastase?

Free treatment and blowdry?

I so made my appointment this morning and I suggest that you do the same asap!

Read on for more info...


Today, over 140,000 consumers nationwide will be invited to visit one of approximately 750 Kérastase Salons participating in this event. On May 20, 2009, Kérastase aficionados will have the opportunity to indulge in a complimentary signature treatment and blow dry at participating salons.

Beginning May 15th, Kérastase will be sending out 150,000 e-vites to clients around the country. Clients will be encouraged to forward the e-vite to friends and family, as this event is for anyone who wants to take advantage of the special offer.

Kérastase will promote Our Treat on their website, kerastase-usa.com , where participating salons will be listed. Clients will make an appointment with the salon of their choice and on May 20th they will bring the printed e-vites to local participating salons to receive their FREE in-salon treatment and blow dry, valued at over $100!

In addition, Mark Garrison Salon in NYC, Maxine Salon in Chicago and Joseph Cozza Salon in San Francisco will be treating clients like true VIPs. They will walk in on a red carpet and receive catering and refreshments upon entering the salon.

You have to make sure that it's at a participating Kérastase Consultant Salon, as not all of them may be doing this.

For salon locations call 877.748.8357 or visit kerastase-usa.com.

Just make sure you do this right away, because when appointments are gone, they're gone. Also, make sure you print out the e-vite to bring with you too!


Jennifer and Christine

anne hathaway's new magnifique ad for lancome

I simply adore Anne Hathaway.

Aside from that crazy mess with that ex-fiance of hers a while back, she honestly seems like one of the more put together younger actresses that's out there today.

Plus I love her look.

At this point, you probably know that Anne is the Lancôme ambassador, right? Well she's now being featured in Lancôme's latest commercial for their fabulous fragrance Magnifique...above you'll find a screen shot from the actual commercial.

The new commercial was filmed in March at New York’s most buzzed about nightclub...The Box.

The ad reveals a sexy, confident and dynamic Magnifique woman (Anne!). Anne was styled by fashion maven Rachel Zoe...who I believe is also her own personal stylist too...and worked one-on-one with a choreographer for a week prior to the shoot where more than 100 extras packed the set for the production.

If you have a minute or two to spare, head on over to www.lancome-usa.com/fragrance/magnifique.aspx to check out the commercial in its entirety!


Jennifer

giveaway with beautyfix

We have mentioned Beautyfix before and we really enjoy it. We love seeing what each "fix" has in it and fighting over who gets what. Beautyfix is a program where you sign up and $49.99 a quarter and each quarter you will receive your Beautyfix. It usually has somewhere between 7 and 10 beauty products - some sample sized and some are full sized and you also get a great little cosmetics bag. It's a great way to sample some products for each season before you buy them. You can also go to beautyfix.com and leave your feedback for the products as well.

The generous people of Beautyfix have given us the green light to giveaway......wait for it........15 Beautyfix 2 sets. Amazing right?!

The Beautyfix 2 (the second quarter of beautyfix) contains everything you see in the picture plus the black cosmetic bag not pictured. Included is 3Lab M Cream, Bella Bronze Self Tanner, Bella Bronze Tan Extender, Exuviance Rejuvenating Treatment Masque, Global Goddess eyeshadow, Glowelle 7 day set, Jonathan Finish Control Hairspray, Kerstin Florian Aromatherapy Neroli Water, and Lisa Hoffman Beauty Vitamin A & C Serum.

For more information on the products included in the giveaway and for more information on the program, please visit beautyfix.com.

To enter the giveaway, send us an email at beautyinreallifecontests@gmail.com with "Beautyfix 2 Giveaway" in the subject line. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address.

We will randomly select fifteen winners May 25th at 11pm est. The winners will be announced on Tuesday, the 26th!

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 May 25th 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 Beautyfix for fulfillment and mailing of contest prize(s). If you fail to include that information we will disqualify your entry. Fifteen winners, chosen at random, will receive the prize(s) mentioned. Duplicate entries will not improve your chances of winning. Giveaway sponsored by Beautyfix. Some restrictions may apply. Open only to US residents only...sorry. Entries will be accepted through 11:00 pm on Monday, May 25th, 2009.

lancome giveaway winner

As Jenn mentioned in the first post about this mascara, Lancôme's Ôscillation Vibrating Powermascara received a 2009 Cosmetic Executive Women (CEW) Beauty Insider’s Choice Award in the Prestige Makeup Eye Product category!

The CEW Beauty Insider’s Choice Awards are held each year and winners are determined by members who vote on the industry’s top products that have been deemed the most innovative in their cosmetic category.


In celebration of this honor and courtesy of Lancôme, we had a giveaway one of the Ôscillation mascaras to one lucky winner!

Here's a little more info on the Ôscillation.

It's Lancome's first vibrating mascara, a battery-operated mascara that mimics and perfects the zig-zag motion many women and makeup artists use to apply mascara. The vibrations, or micro-oscillations as they are called, are barely perceptible when holding the wand and feel like a subtle massaging motion when held against the lashes. The wand produces 7,000 micro-oscillations per second. This buzz-worthy product generated waiting lists of over 30,000 beauty arbiters before its launch and remains a best-seller today.

To apply, hold the brush to your lashes and press the button on the wand to activate the oscillation action. The key to the perfect application is to move the brush in a straight, steady and slow manner. Repeat as necessary. Lancôme is the Number One luxury mascara brand worldwide.

Ôscillation can be found at all Lancôme counters across the country and on lancome-usa.com. The suggested retail price...$34.

Now for the winner....

A big congratulations goes out to Leane G.!!!

Check back later today for another giveaway announcement and don't forget to enter our neuLash Giveaway if you haven't already!

Jennifer and Christine

la mer the spf 30 uv protecting fluid

Lately, I've become a lot more careful about what I put on my skin.

Before, it could have had some insane chemical in it and I would have been like well will it prevent me from getting wrinkles early? Yes? Heck yeah bring it on!

The original Creme de la Mer still works for me at night, plus it doesn't have anything chemically related that I would need to be afraid of...so that's a major plus.

But that's nighttime and for the daytime heat that will soon be here, I'm going to have to switch to one of the lighter versions.

Either way, La Mer the SPF 30 UV Protecting Fluid ($65) will be something that will be in rotation whenever I use a La Mer moisturizer (or any other moisturizer that doesn't contain an SPF for that matter).

Why?

Well, it has a whopping SPF 30 that protects my skin from the harsh rays of the sun and it provides a great primer-like effect under makeup.

Not greasy at all, the lightweight lotion also (somehow) manages to make my skin look more luminous.

That's never a bad thing.

It's price definitely makes this a bit of a splurge, but something worth checking out.

Try your local Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, or Nordstrom...or try cremedelamer.com for more info.


Jennifer

sunsilk captivating curls

Speaking of fabulously inexpensive haircare, Sunsilk recently unveiled their new Captivating Curls line.

Complete with a Captivating Curls Shampoo and Conditioner...which smells amazing by the way (think peach, gardenias, citrus, and florals)...a De-frizz Leave-in Creme, and a Scrunching Mousse, it's definitely up any curly haired girl's alley.

One of the products that just looks ridiculously adorable in the package is their Captivating Curls Gel and Cream Twist.

This combines the hold of a gel with the conditioning power of a cream...the result, curls that don't feel crunchy.

Plus look of the gel and cream combo in the container leaves me wanting a vanilla twistee cone from Rita's...anyone else?

While neither one of us can attest to its ability to make curly tresses bounce without the frizz...in case you haven't noticed, neither one of us is lucky enough to be blessed with cascading ringlets...from what I've seen peeking around the internet and You Tube, a lot of people love it.

Add to that the fact that each product can be bought for under $5 a piece, it's not going to put a huge dent in your wallet.

Try sunsilk.us for more info on the line.


Jennifer

clinique sun

Some of you may not know, but last week the family and I took a little vacation to the beautiful island of St. Maarten. It was amazing!

I tried to pack as little as possible to avoid my husband's head popping off over the fee for checking bags. I assumed I was going to be wearing little to no makeup while there due to the fact that all my son wanted to do was swim, swim again and then swim some more.

Two items I made sure to pack were from the new Clinique Sun collection. I brought the SPF 30 Face Cream ($17.50) and Rescue Balm with Aloe ($20) (anyone who has ever seen how fair I am, knows this is a necessity - I burn, then tan).


I was a little nervous about the Face Cream, since I'm sensitive to most face products. I started off by using it as my moisturizer, underneath whatever else I put on. It worked really well for that. Poolside/beachside it worked well too, but definitely remember to reapply. I did not breakout from using it and wasn't too greasy or heavy feeling like some sunscreens can be. I think I will continue to use this throughout the summer. Although towards the end of the trip I switched to using my son's Aveeno, but only because it was a higher SPF and I was beyond baked, so I felt I needed more SPF.

The Rescue Balm with Aloe also worked really well. We always travel with a bottle of Aloe so this sounded perfect. Ultra-moisturizing balm with soothing aloe calms sun-exposed skin. Provides a post-sun "repair" to help prevent today's sun exposure from becoming tomorrow’s visible damage. Helps minimize peeling. Suitable for face and body. Oil-free. Non-acnegenic. My husband didn't apply sunscreen one day which apparently was my fault. I put this on his shoulders and back and the next morning he wasn't red at all. I didn't really use this until the end of the trip, when I seriously overdid it. My forearms and my shoulders became neon. Anyway, I applied this whenever they started to feel tight or itchy and I only have one little circle (nickel size) that is peeling and normally by now both shoulders and arms would be completely peeling and gross.

There are a couple other products that I would be interested in checking out as well. There is a Face Cream that comes in SPF 50, that I would probably use more often than the SPF 30. A Body Spray, SPF 45 Protection Stick and a Body Cream in SPFs 15, 30 and 50 round out the collection.

For more info and to purchase these items, check out clinique.com.

Christine