happy memorial day!

I'm taking the day off here because it's Memorial Day* and also my Mom's Birthday.

She turns 79 today and that sucks for me because it's just another little reminder that my birthday is right around the corner...it'll be my 39th.

Ugh.

Anyway, I'm going to be knee deep in burgers, hot-dogs, and cupcakes over here, so no post/s darlings.

Until tomorrow!






*thank you to all of the troops who have sacrificed so much fighting for our country.  you are always in our hearts and minds.

and the winner is...

So...who's the winner of a brand new Infiniti by Conair You Curl ($49.99)?

Sneha N.!

Congratulations!

You'll soon be using the You Curl's unique conical design to quickly style your hair into the gorgeous wavy do that everyone is sporting these days.

I'll be forwarding your name and address over to the Conair representative on Tuesday...and you should get it in no time!

For those of you who didn't win, don't dispair...you can pick up your own Infiniti by Conair You Curl at mass market and drug store retailers, as well as at conairyoucurl.com, for an average retail price of $49.99.

You can also find out more great info by “liking” Conair’s new Facebook page at facebook.com/conairhair or following them at twitter.com/conair_hair.

A big thank you to everyone who entered and thank you Conair for sponsoring the giveaway!

mascara deal at nordstrom

I know we're not talking about mascaras that cost $10 here...but you have to admit that it's a pretty sweet deal.

Find it at nordstrom.com.

beauty deal...stila's memorial day sale event

Just head on over to stilacosmetics.com to take advantage!!

estee lauder's limited edition collection...pure color night

It doesn't get any more limited edition than this, Estée Lauder's Pure Color Night is a small collection created by Tom Pecheux, Creative Makeup Director for the cosmetics company.

Just how exclusive is this?

Well, right now, it's available exclusively in Paris at Bon Marché Rive Gauche, Galeries Lafayette Haussmann and Printemps Haussmann. Limited quantities are also available in New York at Bergdorf Goodman (June 2010) and in London at Selfridges Oxford Street.

So...yeah...it's THAT limited.

In the words of the man himself...

I wanted to create the iconic French makeup look; the black smokey eye, dewy skin and kissable lip.  As a makeup artist, I am known for making women look beautiful, sensual and sexy.  When given the challenge to create a collection exclusively for Paris, I thought it would be perfect to create a nighttime look, because this is when every French woman wants to look her most beautiful. I wanted to translate the seductiveness and femininity of French women into makeup. 


                                                                            -Tom Pecheux, Creative Makeup Director, Estée Lauder

You really can't disagree with that.

I adore how there's only three products to choose from too...

Pure Color Ombre Effect EyeShadow in Naughty Black ($20) creates a smokey eye with smoldering impact.  Featuring a textured trio of matte, shimmer and sparkle, these dramatic black/ brown shades can be used alone or together.

Pure Color Luminous Powder ($40) is an incredibly refined and lightweight powder with a luxurious creamy texture. The Highlight shade adds a sensual glow to skin making it look young, healthy and dewy.

Pure Color Lip Gelée in Kiss Me ($20) saturates lips with a nude rose tint, giving the mouth a just-bitten wet look. Water-like high shine polymers amplify the glass like finish, ensuring a coveted seductive pout.

Love.  This.

new nars multiple tints

New for spring/summer, Nars Multiple Tints ($38) are shockingly bright in the tube, yet sheer once applied, giving cheeks and lips brilliant pop of buildable color.

You can use it alone for flushed cheeks or stained lips or layered with other Nars face and lip products for a really bold look.

It's available in three vibrant shades – Beverly Hills (bright red), Turks and Caicos (bright orange) and Cadaqués (bright fuchsia).

Hurry though, the Nars Multiple Tint is only available for a limited time at narscosmetics.com.

beauty buys under $10...garnier triple nutrition nutrient spray

You know you're going to need a good leave-in conditioner, with the daily damage your hair will be facing this summer.

So easy to use...just spray it on after just shampooing for regular conditioning, or spray it on after your regular conditioner for a real dose of extra moisture.

Use it on your wet hair, then pull it back in a pony, a braid, or just leave your hair to dry naturally.  Your hair will thank you for not using heat to style it.

Got it?

Good.

One to try, Garnier Triple Nutrition Nutrient Spray ($5.99).

It's Garnier’s first two-in-one dual-action treatment spray, that will make drier hair a lot happier.

After shampooing (with Garnier's new shampoo...review to come) I dabbed a little of the wet away from my hair, shook the bottle to activate the stuff, and sprayed it on.

It made my hair feel soft immediately...loved that.

Later in the day, when I had NO time to shower before taking my kids to a play-date at the park, I sprayed this on my kinda meh hair and totally appreciated how it revived my do.

The bonus is that you don't have to set foot in a salon to purchase.

Just check out your local Target, CVS, or online at drugstore.com.

here's a little eye candy for your morning...

It's all about Rebecca Minkoff's Summer 2010 Collection sweeties!!

Did you think that I was talking about men?

So sorry.  Didn't mean to mislead you.

Here's a little video that features new styles for the summer.

Can I just brag a little for a sec and share that I actually have one of the new bags mentioned in the piece?

The hubs...who totally understands my handbag obsession and fully supports it...actually got me the Eyelet Devote in pale grey for Mother's Day!

I totally loves it and it's a bag I can use well into the fall and winter.

Check it out along with other gems I'm sure you're going to adore...

a new scent for summer...ch garden party

On the lookout for a new scent for summer?

I've been wearing this a lot...CH by Carolina Herrera Garden Party ($90).

It's the new limited edition fragrance from CH Carolina Herrera...she of the impeccable designs that are worn by the chicest of celebs.

With the refreshing top notes of citrus fruits, like grapefruit, pineapple and lemon, giving way to middle notes full of floral touches such as jasmine and rose petals. The base notes provide a spicy, earthy touch, with sandalwood and cedar.

What you get is a scent that's both light and feminine without being too sweet.

It. Just. Smells. Good.

Plus do you not love the bottle?

The bottle is wrapped in stylish pale pink leather...a set of gold pendants inlaid with red and purple hangs from the bottle.

It'll look gorgeous on a dresser, vanity, or on display in your bathroom.

Find it at your local Nordstrom or nordstrom.com.

infiniti by conair you curl giveaway

It seems that everywhere you turn, you see someone sporting that really fabulous loose, soft, wavy look.

Well, everyone except for me that is.

If you remember, I recently cut my hair into a this short pixie cut.

So...yeah...this is one style I (unfortunately) can't sport.

Anywhatsis..

Conair has come out with a product that makes getting that style easy as pie.

Called the Infiniti by Conair You Curl ($49.99), it has a unique, clamp-free design and a cone-shaped barrel that creates a softer, less structured curl.

All you have to do is simply wrap your hair around the barrel, hold for a few seconds and then release.

The conical design allows the curls to start closer to the root, allowing more volume through the middle (large portion of the barrel) and the bottom will have a tighter curl (small section of the barrel). The effect is trendy, free-flowing spirals with no “clamp kinks.”


The powerful ceramic heater features Tourmaline Ceramic™ technology which provides more protection, reduces frizz, helps eliminate static and does not have damaging hot spots. The ultra-high heat levels are instantly restored during use, and the 5 LED settings provide the ideal temperatures for all hair types. The stay-cool safety tip protects fingers during use.


Here's a little clip that shows you how to use it:



The Infiniti by Conair You Curl is available nationwide at mass market and drug store retailers, as well as at www.conairyoucurl.com, for an average retail price of $49.99.

You can also find out more great info by “liking” Conair’s new Facebook page at facebook.com/conairhair or following them at twitter.com/conair_hair!

The great news is, one winner will receive a brand spankin' new Infiniti by Conair You Curl of their very own!!

All you have to do is just send me an email at beautyinreallifecontests@gmail.com with "Infinity by Conair You Curl" in the subject line and please include your full name and mailing address (if you don't include your full name and address, your entry will be disqualified!!).


That's it!!

I'll randomly select one winner Friday, May 28th at 11pm est. The winner will be announced on Saturday, the 29th!

Alright, just to clarify...One entry per person, duplicate entries will not increase your odds of winning. For this giveaway, only residents of the continental US may enter...sorry Alaska and Hawaii. You have from now until May 28th at 11:00 PM EST to enter.
Good luck!!



*Please Read This: In entering this contest you are giving me permission to forward your name and mailing address to representatives for Conair for fulfillment and mailing of the contest prize. If you fail to include that information I 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 Conair. Some restrictions may apply. Open only to US residents only...sorry Alaska and Hawaii. Entries will be accepted through 11:00 pm on Friday, May 28th, 2010.

kerastase's 2nd annual our treat event

Kérastase is hosting their 2nd Annual Our Treat Event on May 26th (in the Eastern half of the US) and on June 23rd (in the Western half of the US) where participating Kérastase Consultant salons will open their doors and offer complimentary Kerastase Treatment Rituals and blow outs - valued at $100!

Kérastase has also partnered with Locks of Love and will encourage guests who receive treatments to donate $10 to the cause.

 In 2009, nearly 700 salons participated and nearly 13,000 complimentary Kérastase rituals were performed on clients who attended!

Check out participating salons in your area and print your own invitation at: kerastase-usa.com/ourtreat

so summerrific...essie summer 2010 collection

So Essie has just released the details on its new summer collection and the shades are just so warm weather apropos.

Behold...

If you're wondering where the inspiration came for these hues, here's the 411 on that...

This year’s runways reflected the ease of the season with youthful, upbeat clothing in feminine
fabrics, explains Essie Weingarten, President and Founder of Essie Cosmetics, Ltd. I was inspired
by the vivid pastels at Versace and the splashy florals at DKNY. I created this collection to reflect the
youthful, fun-to-wear flirty frocks.

I'm adoring the fact that the trend now is to not to go so matchy-matchy on your hands and toes.  So I might just try Miss Matched on my fingers and Knockout Pout on my feet.

Love.  Them.  All.


The essie Summer 2010 Color Collection will be available beginning June 2010 at essie.com, fine spas, salons and beauty destinations nationwide.

tune in to qvc at 12am est!!

It's a 24-hour celebration devoted to helping women create positive change inside and out.

QVC is calling it National Makeover Day and that's exactly what you'll see.

Highlights from the day are to include beauty and hair makeovers from Bobbi Brown and Chaz Dean, along with fashion makeovers from Bradley Bayou and Gretta Monahan.

Tune in starting at 12am for Bobbi Brown (let me know how it goes because I'm so tired right now I can barely keep my eyes open...I'm sleep typing basically).

Something that you better snatch up from BB's offerings?

I'm loving her Downtown Beauty 6pc Color Collection for only $84.96 (see picture above) snatch it up quick though because her stuff goes super fast!

For a schedule of shows, or to tune in online, try qvc.com.

mac venomous villains

If you're a MAC fanatic, a Disney fan, or a MAC fanatic who loves all things Disney...you're about to pass the hell out from sheer excitement.

MAC Cosmetics is pairing up with Disney to create a limited edition color collection, launching globally in late September in all MAC locations.

The products will feature four Disney characters, on which the brand is keeping mum at the moment — although with a collection name of Venomous Villains, it is assumed that we’re not talking Donald Duck and Minnie Mouse here*.

While I don't have any images of the products to show you...there is a video that you can watch by clicking here.  It gives a really really quick (like blink and you'll miss it quick) peek at a couple of villains who may or may not be involved.

Prices from the collection will range in price from $12 to $29.50.


*Quote courtesy of WWD 

quick picks...clinique high lengths mascara

I know what you're thinking...that looks insane and bizarre and all that's totally not going to work, but it does.

The brush is green and thin and bendy, but it somehow manages to snag each and every one of my lashes and make them pop.

It also delivers the mascara formula, in a perfect clump-free fashion.

What you end up with is defined and lengthened lashes that are just insane.

Seriously.


Try your local Clinique counter or clinique.com.

let's try this again...a new tarte giveaway winner

So, apparently Amanda is a no-show and never emailed me her address...which is a big no-no in my book.

Don't you agree?

Anywho, it's time to choose another winner to join Dawn and Lia...whose prizes are on the way as I type this btw.

So, without further ado...here's the name of the new (third) winner of the Tarte Slide Tin Lip Balms...

Anna Bradley

Congrats sweetie!


Here's her comment below...


I love Tarte products! Unfortunately, I haven't bought myself anything pretty since my son was born, and he'll be a year old next month. I would love to have these lip balms. They're perfect for moms on the go.


Well now you have something pretty darling!!!


Please contact me at mommyjpresents@gmail.com and let me know your full name and mailing address.


You'll have till Friday 11pm EST to get it to me.  Failure to do so will disqualify your entry and I'll just have to give up.  So get emailing ASAP!

If you didn't win, please don't be sad.  I have another giveaway coming very soon!

UPDATE!!! Alright, I totally give up here.  Anna did not contact me as well and I really can't keep the Tarte rep waiting....so that's it.  The prizes have been given and I am not choosing yet another giveaway winner for this giveaway.  Sorry!!!

what i'm wearing...

I just bought this over Mother's Day weekend and have been using it non-stop.

It has that just-out-of-the-shower kinda smell that doesn't ever come off as over-powering.

I cannot get enough of it.



Bobbi Brown Almost Bare Eau de Parfum ($60)

macy's now carries bobbi brown cosmetics

Was I the only person who didn't get the memo on this?

Macy's is totally carrying Bobbi Brown now.

I'm not sure if all locations will have a BB counter, but Bobbi Brown  products seem to be definitely up and running on the macys.com website.

How did I not realize this?

Probably because I haven't been to the mall sans family in ages.

AGES people.

Do you know what it's like shopping with a four year old, a 10 month old, and a husband who does not like to shop?

Not.  Fun.

It mainly involves my husband and four year old repeatedly asking me are we done yet?

Ugh...totally sucks the life out of the whole "shopping experience", if you know what I mean.

china glaze vintage vixen...fall 2010

Yes, I know.

You're just getting ready for the heat of summer right?

Well, now's the time when the Fall 2010 color collections...yes, you heard me right...Fall 2010 color collections start hitting the blogesphere.

So, whether either of us is ready or not, here's a little sneak peek at China Glaze's offering...

For Fall 2010, the China Glaze Vintage Vixen Collection captures the vivid and saturated hues of the 1940’s with this seductively complex palette. These classic shades of the season recreate the timeless tableau of movie land mystique, perfect red pouts and steamy nights where swing was the scene!

Jitterbug – Grey chrome with silver micro glitter

First Class Tocket – Deep purple frost with shimmer

Hey Doll – Rose frost with shimmer

Foxy – Burgundy frost with shimmer

Ingrid – “Greige” crème with copper micro glitter

Swing Baby – Taupe frost with silver micro glitter

Goin’ My Way – Brown frost with copper shimmer

Riveter Rouge – Deep red shimmer

Classic Camel – Khaki crème with gold micro glitter

Emerald Fitzgerald – Turquoise green frost with shimmer

Midnight Mission – Navy blue frost with silver micro glitter

Bogie – Plum frost with shimmer

The new collection should be in stores starting in June.

are you the winner of the kohl's diamond earrings?

Okay..I'm late in the day here, but still on time delivering the winner's name before midnight!!!

Whew and go me!

So, who's the winner of these fabulous ear decorations?

The winner is:

Lou!!!

Congratulations to you.

Of course the winner was picked through random.org, but here's Lou's comment anyway:

Diamonds are a girl's best friend because they light up your face and your mood is uplifted due to the fact that these are some beautiful earrings. WOW I had no idea that Kohl's had these gorgeous diamonds. I would absolutely love to win these! Thank you so much for this awesome giveaway:)


Please send me an email (mommyjpresents@gmail.com) and let me know your mailing address so that I may send it on to the Kohl's representatives!

stila deal

Considering I can't partake of any libations right now...this is how I like to spend my happy hour.

mac to the beach

MAC's new collection is definitely right up any makeup lovers alley, whether you plan on hitting the beach or not.  The packaging is tres adorable and the colors are so wearable it's ridiculous.  Here's a few of my faves:

High-Light Powder in Marine Life ($26) 

The seahorse design is just too cute don't you think?.  

Dust this on the tops of your cheekbones, or use it anywhere you want for a little extra oomph.

MAC To The Beach Cream Bronzer in Beach Bronze ($25)

There's nothing like a cream bronzer to impart a gorgeous yet natural faux glow.

The subtle little hint of gold, is divine.

Lipglass in Easy Lounger ($14)

I love everything about this lippie.  

The adorable seahorse on the cap just sets it over the top for me.

It's light baby pink sheerness is just perfection.

Lip Pencil in Temperature Rising ($13)

Don't let the orange shade scare you.

Use it to lightly line and then fill in your lips...just go lightly.

Throw on a dab of clear balm on top
and you've got a perfect sheer orange almost coral shade for the summer.

Lustre Drops in Sun Rush ($22)
You only need a little to add some zing to your routine.
Add a drop to your regular foundation (or tinted moisturizer) for an instant glow.
Another option is to use it on it's own...sparingly...as a highlighter.
Yet another is to add a touch to your body moisturizer and rub a little on your shoulders.
Gorgeous.

All will be available staring May 28th thru July 2010 at your local MAC store, counter, or at maccosmetics.com.  

Editor's Note: I received products from MAC through a representative of the company.

better late than never...the kohl's gift card giveaway winners!!!

Seriously?

I am so ridiculously sorry here.

Little l was really really sick last night and little e is still trying to get over her ear infection/sinus infection and she's still wants to be held constantly.

Needless to say, I did not get around to drawing the names.

Anway, without further carrying-on...the winners!!!

Using Random.org to find the two lucky ladies, here's the results...

The winner of the Kohl's $50 gift card is....

dolls123

The winner of the $25 Kohl's gift card is...

LindaRD

  

Congratulations ladies!!!  

Even though it wasn't the comments that won it for you (for fairness I used the random drawing) I still loved BOTH of your trends and actually want to start incorporating them into my wardrobe for spring and summer.

Dolls123 is positively dying over statement necklaces and LindaRD is talking about adding more dresses.

Love.  It.

All I need now is for you both to send me your address via email to mommyjpresents@gmail.com!!!

Please do this ASAP because I have possession of the cards and I can get them out to you right away.  If I don't hear from you by Tuesday, May  18th 2010 at 11pm...I'll be forced to choose a new winner/s.  So get to emailing!!!

cle de peau beaute spring 2010 collection

I'm definitely feeling a softer, fresher look for daytime.

Cle de Peau Beaute nails it big-time with their Spring 2010 collection Visage Seduisant-Faces of Glamour.

Meant to evoke the beauty of seductive icons of eras past...like Elizabeth I, Cleopatra, and Hollywood starlets of the 20's.

Four things that have piqued my interest are...

The Mascara ($50) Right of the bat it's hard not to say that it's a major splurge, but it contains Argan Tree Oil and an advanced moisturizing ingredient called Hydro-Wrap.  Both are meant to keep your lashes hydrated, as well as provide smooth application and wear.

Extra Rich Lipstick ($60) With the gorgeous hues and the specific Baguette Diamond Shape of the lipcolor...actually designed that way to help you deliver precision color without a brush...it's definitely something that's going on my must-try list.

Anti-Age Spot Serum ($155)  I'm dying to try Cle de Peau Beaute's foundation and concealer, but their skincare is right up there too.  With its promise to promote even-toned, flawless skin with incredible clarity for a noticeably more youthful look had me at flawless.

Satin Eye Color ($45) Contains their Hydro-Wrap Complex and Argan Tree Oil and is said to maintain its just-applied beautiful finish for hours without fading, creasing or dulling. Enough said.

To learn more about the line, head on over to cledepeau-beaute.com, neimanmarcus.com, and your local Cle de Peau Beaute counter.

beauty buys under $10...avon's glazewear lip gloss

How's this for a cool fact, Avon sells the equivalent of 8 Glazewears every minute.*

It's actually considered America's #1 lip gloss!

That's some major lippie action don't you think?

Available in 16 high-gloss shades (including SPF 15 Clear), you’ll no doubt find the shade you're looking for.

What totally impressed me, was the fact that it's not at all sticky or tacky.

Something that's hard to find in glosses.

Even many I adore have some stickiness to them.

There's four new customized finishes, including Intense, Sparkle, Shine and Clear, each only $6.00. (Plus, snag Glazewear during May, their “Glazewear Celebration Month” for only $1.99 each!!!!)

I'm loving Tickled Pink (top in photo below), Daring Pink (middle), and Mauve Moment (bottom)....but there's plenty of shades to choose from.

Glazewear Lip Gloss is available exclusively through Avon Representatives. So to locate an Avon Representative, head on over to avon.com.

*in the mass market

Editor's Note: I was provided a sample from Attention PR, who contacted me on behalf of Avon.

and the winners of the tarte giveaway are...

Yes...I know that it's late here and I should have given you these names earlier...so I won't bore you with the details of my lateness and/or lack of posting.

Enough with the attempted excuses right?

Here's the three winners of the Tarte Slide Tin Lip Balms!!!

Dawn    
Amanda    
Lia

Congrats ladies.

Here's their comments below...which, FYI I did not base their winning on.  It was totally based on random numbers that I got from the random.org site.

Anyway...

Dawn:
I love Tarte makeup. It is natural with the best ingredients. I have a family child care (20+ yrs) and love to share samples with the school age girls. If they are going to try makeup, I want them to learn about the best, how it is made and feels. It might cost more than drugstore but lasts longer, works better, comes in beautiful colors and they learn about companies that make a difference. I would share the Tarte tins with my girls if I win.

Amanda:
I want to win!! My lips are like sandpaper, who am I kidding, I NEED to win!!

Lia:
I think I desperately need these because I've never tried anything by tarte and I've been wanting to for a long time! Also, because I like kissing, so I need more lip balm. haha. ;)

Thanks ladies!

Please contact me at mommyjpresents@gmail.com and let me know your full names and mailing addresses.  You'll have till Friday 11pm EST to get those to me.  Failure to do so will disqualify your entry and I'll have to choose another winner.  So get emailing ASAP!

If you didn't win, please don't be sad.  I have two other giveaways going on right now and I hope to have more very soon.

So keep coming back!!!

don't forget...

Don't forget to enter the Tarte giveaway!  Three lucky winners will each receive a set of three Tarte Slide Tin Balms.  It ends at 11pm EST tonight, so be sure you've left me a comment on that post.  Click here to enter!

hourglass illume creme-to-powder bronzer duo in sunset

This cleverly designed duo delivers just the right amount of sun-kissed glow.

The formula is perfection, it goes from a silky cream to a silky powder in an instant.

Makes for easy application.

Use the bronzer in areas that the sun would naturally hit...just remember to go lightly at first because you can always layer on more if you need it.

I had a chance to try out the new colors in Sunset.

They're described as a sheer rose and a sheer bronze, but I think that the blush actually has a wee bit of a peach tone in there too.

The pic on the right gives you an idea of what the shades look like, but keep in mind that they haven't been blended yet...so the color might seem a little too deep on the bronzer.

Here's a little video I made that gives you a little detail on how you can apply this to get the sunny glow you know you want.

It's my first video ever, so please be gentle!

A little FYI...the lighting in my kitchen at night is definitely a tad on the meh side, so I'll work on figuring out better lighting.

Oh and it's also the debut of my new haircut.  It's really really short and something that I just did recently.




Be sure to check out the Hourglass Illume Creme-to-Powder Bronzer Duo in Sunset at your local Sephora or try sephora.com!

You can also let me know what you think about my video in the comments.

Please remember that I cry easily though.

kohl's diamond earrings giveaway!!

Hold on to your hats ladies, because this is the ultimate of giveaways!

Kohl's and I have teamed up to give away the best prize EVER in the history of Beauty in Real Life.

One lucky winner will receive a pair of diamond earrings worth...get this...$1750 retail!!

Here's some details about the prize...

These earrings are the perfect gift for yourself or someone special – what woman wouldn’t love a gorgeous pair of diamond earrings to make her sparkle. They are certified, high quality and can be found at Kohls, for an amazing price!


The earrings have a four-prong setting with 14k gold screwback posts. The certification includes an International Gemological Institute certificate of authenticity that verifies clarity, color and carat weight. And they come in a cute white leatherette gift box.


It’s amazing what you can find at Kohl’s jewelry department – certified diamond earrings and rings, gemstones, pearls and top name brand watches like Citizen and Bulova. All at incredible prices. And with Kohl’s discounts and savings passes, you can’t find a better value on jewelry anywhere.


Check out kohls.com for more great deals and ideas, or to find a location near you!!


Well, let's run this one the same as the others.

All you have to do is leave me a comment on why diamonds are a girl's (or guy's) best friend.  Any reason will do...be it beauty, fashion, or otherwise....let's just have fun.  Just be sure to leave your name...or have something resembling a name in your comment somewhere.

You can leave your email if you want to, but you don't have to.

One winner will be selected at random.  That lucky gal or guy will be walking away with the studs.

JUST BE SURE TO LEAVE SOME SORT OF NAME because I will not count any comments that say anonymous and don't have any name in it what-so-ever!

Oh and please don't send me an email asking me to enter you in the giveaway.  I've had a couple of people do that and all I can say is sorry, but it isn't fair to those that are already entered.  Just enter your name below along with the comment and that is what counts as an entry.

Got it darlings?

Moving on.

Here's the details...

You have until Thursday, May 13th at 11pm EST to leave a comment on this post. I will randomly select two winners and then announce those winners on Friday, May 14th!

Just remember to leave your name...or have something resembling a name in your comment somewhere...and also tell me why you think diamonds are a girl's (or guy's) best friend.

Okay?

Alright, just to clarify...one entry per person, duplicate entries will not increase your odds of winning. For this giveaway, only those who live in the continental US may enter...sorry Alaska and Hawaii. You have from now until May 13th at 11:00pm EST to enter.

Good luck!!


*Please Read This: In entering this contest you are giving me permission to have your name and mailing address for fulfillment and mailing of contest prize(s). If you fail to include that information when requested, I will disqualify your entry. Two winners, chosen at random, will receive the prize(s) mentioned. Duplicate entries will not improve your chances of winning. Giveaway sponsored by Kohl's. Some restrictions may apply. Open only to continental US residents only...sorry Alaska and Hawaii. Entries will be accepted through 11:00 pm on Thursday, May 13th, 2010.

taylor swift is covergirl's latest spokesperson!

Hey guys!

Sorry that I haven't been posting that much this week!

Things have been crazy around here (again). I've been sick (again). My kid/s have been sick (again). Plus my littlest one has been teething.

Ugh.

Anyway, I meant to post about this last week and I plum forgot...so here you go...

CoverGirl just announced their latest spokeswoman!

Singer-songwriter Taylor Swift can now add CoverGirl to her list of accomplishments. The 20-year old, award-winning star has just finished shooting her first advertisements and will be representing a new line of luxury products for brand.

The ads are scheduled to debut in January 2011 along with the new line. Taylor joins the ranks of Ellen DeGeneres, Rihanna, Queen Latifah, Drew Barrymore and Dania Ramirez as the newest face of the brand.

Yay!

I should also mention that I tend to sing her songs embarrassingly loud in the car whenever they come on.

Just saying.

kohl's giveaway

Spring has sprung and Kohl’s is celebrating the 2010 Candie’s line.

Lucky for you because, Kohl’s is teaming up with me to give away two gift cards!

One winner will receive a gift card worth $50 and another will receive one worth $25!!

That should give you a little jumpstart in your spring shopping.

The 2010 Candie’s line is a vibrant mix of tops, dresses and accessories for teens and young adults.

You can see it for yourself by clicking on this link: kohlsspringcollections.com/fashion_home/index.html#candies

It’s a contemporary style – and since it’s Kohl’s - it’s also an exceptional value.

So what do you need to do?

Well, let's run this one the same as the others.

All you have to do is leave me a comment on what new trend you're loving for spring.  Any trend will do...be it beauty, fashion, or otherwise.  Just tell me what trend you're dying for and leave your name...or have something resembling a name in your comment somewhere.

You can leave your email if you want to, but you don't have to.

Two winners will be selected at random.  The first one selected will receive the $50 gift card and the second will receive the $25!

JUST BE SURE TO LEAVE SOME SORT OF NAME because I will not count any comments that say anonymous and don't have any name in it what-so-ever!

Got it darlings?

Moving on.

Here's the details...

You have until Wednesday, May 12th at 11pm EST to leave a comment on this post. I will randomly select two winners and then announce those winners on Thursday, May 13th!

Just remember to leave your name...or have something resembling a name in your comment somewhere...and also tell me a trend you're loving for the spring season.

Okay?

Alright, just to clarify...one entry per person, duplicate entries will not increase your odds of winning. For this giveaway, only those who live in the continental US may enter...sorry Alaska and Hawaii. You have from now until May 12th at 11:00pm EST to enter.

Good luck!!


*Please Read This: In entering this contest you are giving me permission to have your name and mailing address for fulfillment and mailing of contest prize(s). If you fail to include that information when requested, I will disqualify your entry. Two winners, chosen at random, will receive the prize(s) mentioned. Duplicate entries will not improve your chances of winning. Giveaway sponsored by Kohl's. Some restrictions may apply. Open only to continental US residents only...sorry Alaska and Hawaii. Entries will be accepted through 11:00 pm on Monday, May 12th, 2010.

neosporin...not just for cuts

No matter how hard I try, I cannot resist popping a pimple if and when I get one.  Last week, I had (sorry if this is a tad too TMI) a monster zit on my nose.  One of those under the skin ones.

Now, I totally know that I shouldn't have tried to pop it.  It's not good and all, it'll scar, and blah blah blah...but pick at it I did.

Nothing came of it except for me making it madder and uglier.  Plus, I definitely did some damage to the skin on top (again sorry).

It basically looked way worse than when I started.

Stupid me.

So, at this point, I couldn't really put anything on it without looking ridiculous and probably hurting like crazy.  Ugh.

Then it hit me.

It's basically a wound, right?

Why not slab a little Neosporin on it and see what happens.

So that's what I did.

Then, I am not kidding here, a little while later the swelling and redness started to go down.  By evening it was looking even tinier and way less on the crimson side.

A couple of days later...it was gone*.

Done.

Kaput.

Love it.

Do you have any pimple tips you'd like to share?  If so, leave a comment below.



*Now, I'm not saying it'll work for severe cases and if yours is bad enough you might want to see a derm...but it did the trick for me.

tarte giveaway!

Do not think that I've forgotten about you my lovelies, because I haven't.

I have a really sweet giveaway up for grabs that three...yes three lucky readers can make off with!

For this one, I was so lucky to partner with Tarte...one of my all time fave brands here people.  Three of you will win, not one...not two...but three Tarte Slide Tin Lip Balms (seen in the pic above)!

Here's a little info about the balms...

These dermatologist-tested and CEW-award winning balms moisturize and protect your lips, while SPF 15 protects your smacker from the sun.

Each balm gives lips just a hint of tint and tastes great too!

Here's the three shades three of you will win...

mouth off: sheer raspberry with vanilla-mint flavor

bee stung: sheer red with cherry flavor

 pucker up: sheer pink with cotton candy flavor

So...you're getting the full set!

They all contain skinvigorating™ ingredients like sunflower seed oil and mineral pigments...but they're also mineral oil free, phthalate free, and gluten free.

It's super-cute and totally green packaging is made of post consumer recycled aluminum and it's recyclable, as well as reusable!

And did I mention that three (3) of you will walk off with a set of three slide tins valued at $36 for the set?  All courtesy of Tarte!

So...let's get to business on this giveaway.

All you have to do is leave me a comment on why you need these balms in your life.  Any reason will do.  Just tell me why you need these balms and leave your name...or have something resembling a name in your comment somewhere.

You can leave your email if you want to, but you don't have to.

JUST BE SURE TO LEAVE SOME SORT OF NAME because I will not count any comments that say anonymous and don't have any name in it what-so-ever!

Seriously.  I'm not joking here.

Moving on.

Here's the details...

You have until Monday, May 10th at 11pm EST to leave a comment on this post. I will randomly select one winner and then announce that winner on Tuesday, May 11th!

Just remember to leave your name...or have something resembling a name in your comment somewhere...and also tell me why you want to win these balms.

Okay?

Alright, just to clarify...one entry per person, duplicate entries will not increase your odds of winning. For this giveaway, only those who live in the continental US may enter...sorry Alaska and Hawaii. You have from now until May 10th at 11:00pm EST to enter.

Good luck!!


*Please Read This: In entering this contest you are giving me permission to give your name and mailing address to the good folks at Tarte for fulfillment and mailing of contest prize(s). If you fail to include that information when requested, I will disqualify your entry. Three winners, chosen at random, will receive the prize(s) mentioned. Duplicate entries will not improve your chances of winning. Giveaway sponsored by Tarte. Some restrictions may apply. Open only to continental US residents only...sorry Alaska and Hawaii. Entries will be accepted through 11:00 pm on Monday, May 10th, 2010.

weekend beauty reads from the bbn

15 Minute Beauty Fanatic investigates Maybelline's new primer, did they manage to dupe Smashbox's Photofinish Primer?

Beauty Anonymous reviews La Mer The Regenerating Serum.

Enter for a chance to win a wonderful Mother's Day pampering kit full of various goodies from The Body Shop’s Spa Wisdom Japan collection line at Beauty and Personal Grooming. Ends May 9, 2010.

Elke gets first glance at the new MAC Superglass Lipgloss and tries her favorites.

Phyrra from Fresco Phyrra is giving away a Clarisonic Mia Pink for Mother's Day!

StyleBell uncovers the BEST flat irons to use during and after your keratin straightening treatment!

The Makeup Divas reviews and shares swatches of MAC's newest lip launch Superglass in Sugar Overload and Cherry Electric.

Time for some Mother's Day Mayhem at Raging Rouge! Be sure to check out this year's Mother's Day Gift Guide if you're still stumped!

Beauty in Real Life snags an interview with former So You Think You Can Dance finalist Ellenore Scott!

Beauty Junkie in SF is ga-ga over Killian's limited edition gold travel fragrance gift set for Mother's Day. It is the perfect gift for your super elegant mom!