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Fall’s Best Beauty Trends
Here’s your guide to the season’s hottest beauty trends. From the forest green nails and spider lashes I recently revealed to lacquered lids, click on the gallery for inspiration and tips to make these runway looks your own.
Lacquered Lids
At Donna Karan, lids were glossy and caramel colored. Makeup artists used MAC PRO Gloss Texture (this product can be purchased at a MAC PRO store) to achieve the lacquered look . Tip: Apply the gloss over a cream shadow rather than powder to prevent lids from creasing. Bare Escentuals Prime Time Primer Shadow in Sundance mimics the color used on the runway and it’s a primer so it won’t budge.
Burgundy Lips
Lips were a soft, matte, understated burgundy at Carolina Herrera. To acheive this look, makeup artists applied MAC’s new lipstick in Prince Noir. Tip: to create this stained effect, pat on the lipstick — don’t draw or swipe it on.
Bold Brows
Arches were edgy and bold at Alexander Wang. Models’ brows were filled in with MAC eyeshadow in Brun. Tip: use an angled eyebrow brush to apply powder with precision. For added depth, you can even give the tips of your brows a few pats of mascara.
Rust-colored Shadow
Eyes were smokified at Dsquared2 with the lush colors of autumn leaves. Use a gold/copper/brown eye palette. This season I’m obsessed with the new Charlotte Ronson All Eye Need Eye Shadow Palette, part of the fashion designer’s exclusive makeup collection for Sephora. Click on the next slide to see the palette. Tip: For more drama, apply the shadow to your lower lashline—thickness and darkness depend on your desired intensity.
Charlotte Ronson Eye Shadow Palette
Each of the rich pigments in this quad blend like butter and look gorgeous on everyone.
Soft Black Wings
Eyeliner extended beyond the outer lash lines to form soft, powdery black wings at Lanvin. Cover lids with a shear, nude shadow and then use black shadow to create the soft wing effect. Tip: pack the black shadow on to outer corners of your eyes and then blend up and outward. If you keep dusting on light layers, you could end up with raccoon eyes.
Deep Parts
Hair at Marni was ultra feminine with seriously deep, forehead sweeping side parts. Spritz and tousle hair with Shu Uemura Liquid Fabric Mineral Texture Spray. Create a part and gather hair at your ear and secure with a bobby pin.
Posted in BG Tips, How To, hair, makeup, skin, style, trends
Tagged beauty-trends, Brows, Charlotte Ronson, eye-shadow, Fall 2011 Beauty Trends, Fall Trends, hair, lips, Mac, makeup, red-lips, sephora, shu-uemura
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Giveaway Winners Announced!
Congrats to TheBeautyGirl.com readers who scored the latest batch of giveaways.
Valerie, Antoinette and Emily each won a tube of Blinc mascara.
Tina, Carol and an Alabama girl will be welcoming better hair days. They won the $119 InStyler.
Posted in Deals & Freebies, Giveaway, Tuesday Giveaway, hair, makeup
Tagged Blinc, Deals & Freebies, Giveaway, hair, hot tool, InStyler, mascara, Tuesday Giveaway
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Lash Out with Spider Lashes
Arachnophilia was loud and alive on fall’s ready-to-wear catwalks. From Chloe and Ungaro to Lanvin and Gucci, models’ lashes were as clumpy as can be. If you’re feelin’ the fringe, here are some tips to try out the trend:
1. Choose the right mascara: Defining and separating products aren’t the name of the game. Instead, go for curling and volumizing formulas in carbon black. MAC Zoomblack Zoom Lash Mascara, which was used at Ungaro and Chloe, and Maybelline Volum’ Express The Falsies Mascara, which gives great volume at the right price, are both contenders. For total control and jet black lashes, I love Lash Control mascara in 2x black. Just squeeze the tube to determine how much mascara ends up on the brush.
2. Application is key: Shimmy on a coat of mascara by dragging the brush from base to tip, creating the general shape you want. Then, apply several more coats by wiggling the brush just from the base to mid-shaft. Drawing the brush out to your tips will create too much separation. Even dabbing and pressing the brush against your lashes will create perfect clumps. Make sure to let lashes dry for a few seconds in between coats. Repeat the steps on your bottom lashes.
BG Tip: Since your fringe is the main event, there’s no need to worry about meticulously applying several shades of eye shadow to complete the look. Skip the shadow and balance your dramatic lashes with a great, strong brow. Use a tinted brow gel that works double duty by both taming and tinting the hair. Just a few swipes will give your brows gorgeous depth and definition. Pull it all together with a classic, rich red pout (as shown above left at Gucci) or a light, soft nude lip (as seen above right at Lanvin).
P.S. Click here to see which other mascaras I’ve got my eyes on.
Posted in BG Tips, How To, makeup, style, trends
Tagged 2011 Fall Beauty Trends, beauty-trends, Brow Gel, Lash Control, lashes, Mac, makeup, mascara, maybelline
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Nail Polish Colors I’m Loving
As you can see from the above photo I took, I have more nail polishes than there are days of the year! With so many options, my craving for a color can change as quickly as the weather. But there are some standout shades I just can’t shake. Right now, I’m loving these pinks (for summer), greens (for fall) and the anticipated limited-edition Chanel collection of blues inspired by the most classic wardrobe staple — denim.
OPI in Teenage Dream (Yes, it’s part of the Katy Perry collection for OPI). The polish is all bubblegum and sparkles like the pop star but surprisingly not cheesy at all on nails. The combo of tiny flecks of glitter with a few bigger bits creates incredible dimension, and you won’t look like every other girl in this soft pink.
Nicole by OPI’s Miss Independant is a stunning rose gold polish. It’s the perfect balance of gold and petal pink, and the finish gives nails a beautfiul shimmer. I’ve gotten so many compliments on this shade, the bottle has been passed around to my sisters and mom, who’s been wearing the color on her toes.
Butter London Nail Lacquer in Thames is an unexpected burst of evergreen with a hint of sheen. Green nails were big on fall runways, and this polish stands out for me as one of the most wearable yet high fashion out there.
I introduced you to Nars Vintage Nail Polish back in October, and true to its name, the collection really does stand the test of time. The gold/army green shade I’m wearing in the above photo is Mash. It’s still one of my favorites from the line, and I’ll be wearing it throughout the fall season. And, get a load of this gorgeous Chanel polish in Peridot (shown below), part of the brand’s new Fall collection. This green/cold combo takes on a different personality in every light.
Speaking of Chanel, there’s a small window to get your hands on Les Jeans De Chanel, three gorgeous blue hues inspired by a different shade of denim. The polish collection debuts Sept. 8 and will only be available through the end of the month at Chanel boutiques and the website.
P.S. I can’t talk about nails without mentioning this year’s trend de jour — nail stickers. Check out some of my favorites from Sally Hansen, Inque and Broadway Nails.
Posted in Favorite Things, Nails, style, trends
Tagged beauty-trends, Broadway Nails, Butter London, chanel, Fall Beauty, Inque, nail trends, Nails, nars, nicole by opi, OPI, sally-hansen
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Preview Missoni Collection for Target
I’m so excited about this season’s designer collaboration with Target.
The newest designer to enter the doors is Missoni, famous for colorful zigzag prints and to-die-for knits. This is one of the biggest fashion collaborations Target has ever seen. I’ve previewed all 400 (wowza!) of the items. There’s apparel for women, men, girls and baby, home goods and décor, luggage, accessories and even makeup bags…your whole life can be Missoni. Fab!
The doors to zig zag heaven open September 13th at Target stores and target.com. Mark your calendars—designer collections at Target fly off the shelves!
In the mean time, here’s a preview of some of my favorite pieces.
This poncho is so chic, you’d think it was straight off the runway!
Sweater dresses are so easy to wear, and I’ve got my eye on this one.
These adorable textured tights make any outfit pop.
These decorative pillows are all you need to spice up a basic sofa.
My hubby’s got this sweater on his wish list.
This onesie is a must.
Posted in Favorite Things, style, trends
Tagged fall fashion, Missoni, style, Target
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Preggo Products I Can’t Live Without
I’m having a baby! I’m in the final weeks and am happy to be able to say I’m still feeling good. I haven’t gotten swollen or stretched out to the point that I’m miserable. Perhaps I can attribute this to my diligent application of skin softening products that relieve me every time my tummy feels itchy or so big it’s going to burst. For the past nine months I’ve slathered on balms, oils and creams day and night like a champ and have widdled it down to the ones I just couldn’t live without. Here they are…
As you can see from the above picture, I used every last drop of this incredible salve. It’s thick and waxy and melts into skin, but don’t be surprised if the Bella B Tummy Honey Butter gets stuck under your nails. I used this religiously before bed. If you’re slathering on during the day, be sure to give it at least 10 minutes to fully absorb or else it could end up on your clothes. I learned this the hard way.
I’ve come to love the feel of oil on my belly. Erbaviva stretch mark oil and Mama Mio Tummy Rub (shown above) are two of my favorites. I pour a quarter-size amount into my palm and rub it on in sweeping circular motions. This has become part of my morning ritual, which is really relaxing for me and baby. And whenever I need some mid-day relief, I usually reach for Burt’s Bees Mama Bee Belly Butter (shown above). The lightweight cream spreads evenly, dries fast and doesn’t feel greasy.
By the way, I have no clue what to do once the baby comes, but at least right now I know I’m doing something right — I’m proud to say I’m stretch mark free!
Posted in Favorite Things, Mom & Baby, Road Test, skin
Tagged body oil, body products, Burt\'s Bees, cream, Erbaviva, Mama Mio, pregnancy products, skin, stretch mark cream
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Want Thicker-Looking Hair? Here’s How
When I was younger, I had thick, lustrous hair. Somewhere in my 20s, it started to abandon me. Call it stress, genetics, what have you…I found myself in one of those situations where I didn’t realize what I had until I lost it. Now, I describe my hair as “fine,” which is a nicer way of saying thin. When I’m in the market for hair products, I typically opt for the “thickening” or “volumizing” kinds. So, when I got an email about Toppik Hair Building Fibers, I couldn’t turn my head. It happens to be one of the best-kept secrets of one of my older friends, so I had to try it out. It’s an easy, temporary solution for women and men who are seeing more of their scalp than they’d like, and I rank this as one of the better hair loss products I’ve come across. Just to be clear, this helps to fill in spots but doesn’t make your hair grow. Watch my video to see it in action!
Posted in BGTV, How To, hair
Tagged beauty secret, hair, hair loss products, How To, Toppik
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2011 Fashion’s Night Out at Macys!
It’s that time of year again when the fashion world unites for a one-night only worldwide celebration to kick off Fashion Week. Retailers transform their stores into party zones with shopping incentives, beauty bargains and other special surprises. Last year, I was on the scene for Fashion’s Night Out. However, I’ll be sitting this one out for a very good reason. I’m expecting my first baby! Of all due dates, mine falls on Sept. 8th — Fashion’s Night Out. How fitting that my little one wants to enter this world in style. I’ll keep you updated on the arrival.
In the mean time, since I’ll be missing the fun festivities, I’m counting on you to take my spot. For all the Chicagoans, If I coulda, I woulda been heading to Macy’s Water Tower Place for the third annual event. The retailer is going all out with beauty raffles every 30 minutes, photo booths, and spa treatments, among other exciting stuff. Plus, the newly revamped beauty floor is bananas with high-tech lighting, a feng shui feeling layout and top-notch brands. Many of the counters are offering gifts with purchase and other treats for the taking just for this one occassion. Click on the below slideshow for a sneak peek at some of the incredible products and perks that await. Happy Shopping!
Estee Lauder’s Idealist Even Skintone Illuminator
This serum is like candlelight in a bottle. The formula, which goes on clean skin before moisturizer, contains a blend of proprietary ingredients that help to brighten skin, even out redness and discoloration and blur the look of imperfections to give your face a warm glow.
Exclusive FNO Offer: Purchase Idealist Even Skintone Illuminator and score a 7-piece choice gift-with-purchase including: Advance Night Repair, Soft Clean Tender Cream Cleanser, Pure Color Eye Shadow Quad, Sumptous Mascara, Pleasures Fragrance, Pure Color Lipstick in Navy Multi-Color Floral Heritage Print. Spend a little more ($65) and get your choice of deluxe moisturizers worth $130: Resilience Lift Firming/Sculpting Face and Neck Cream (day or night) or Time Zone Line and Wrinkle Reducing Creme 15 (day or night).
bareMinerals Prime Time Primer Shadow
These gorgeous cream shadows double as primer so they won’t crease or budge no matter how oily or crepey your lids. They glide on evenly with the stroke of a fingertip, and all of the flattering shades look luxe with subtle flecks of shimmer.
Exclusive FNO Offer: Spend $65, which is easy to do because every product is better than the next, and leave with a special gift.
Sue Devitt Tinted Body Moisturizer
Best accessory for a glam cocktail dress: golden skin. This body bronzer hides imperfections, creates a sexy sheen and has a water-based, oil-free formula that’s friendly to sensitive skin types.
Exclusive FNO Offer: Receive 3 deluxe samples with $50 purchase; 1 full-size product and 3 deluxe samples with $100 purchase; 2 full-size products and 3 deluxe samples with $150 purchase.
Philosophy Purity Cleanser
It’s no wonder Philsophy’s Purity Cleanser is a best seller. It makes sense of our skin, striking the perfect balance between cleanser and conditioner. It manages to remove dirt and makeup without stripping skin raw and works up to a satisfying lather that leaves you feeling, pure, indeed.
Exclusive FNO offer: Spend $50 and receive this Purity face wash along with a black Philosophy bag, Field of Flowers Shower Gel/Lotion, Microdelivery Enzyme Peel and Hope in a Tinted Moisturizer.
Clarisonic Mia
Anyone who’s into beauty will agree the Clarisonic Mia deserves its standing as a cult favorite. This baby will give your skin a deep cleanse that only a pro treatment can rival. The brush rotates, creating a “micro-massage” action that removes 6x more makeup and 2x more dirt and oil from your pores compared to the old-fashioned way of washing up with your hands.
StriVectin-SD Instant Retexturizing Scrub
Perhaps best known for their anti-cellulite creams, StriVectin continues to churn out products that solve our biggest beauty concerns. For example, if flaky skin is your issue, this face and neck exfoliator is your solution. It gently removes dead cells, leaving behind smoother, even skin.
Exclusive FNO Offer: You won’t want to pass up this counter on Sept. 8th. StriVectin is pampering guests with 5-minute tightening and lifting massages. Plus, if you spend $69 on any product from the brand, you’ll get this $45 face scrub for FREE!
Fashion Fair Daily Protecting Moisturizer SPF 15
A moisturizer with SPF is a skincare staple, and this one is the perfect year-round go-to with SPF 15. The oil-free, fragrance-free formula won’t break you out yet it’s hydrating enough to soothe dryness with vitamins A and E.
Exclusive FNO Offer: Score a Dusty Rose full-size lipstick, trial of Special Formula Lotion, skin care samples for different skin conditions and a Fashion Fair bag with a purchase of $40 or more.
Origins GinZing Refreshing Eye Cream
When your eyes are dragging, this ginseng-infused eye cream will wake ‘em up. It leaves behind a cooling sensation that feels like a cold splash of water, deflates puffiness and has a slight hint of shimmer that brightens dark circles.
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion
One of the brand’s best sellers, this primer is the key to locking your shadow in place. Apply the lightweight base on lids, follow with your favorite shadow and there’s no need to check yourself again. This formula’s got the muscle to prevent makeup from fading no matter how long your day.
Posted in Deals & Freebies, makeup, skin
Tagged bareminerals, body-bronzer, bronzer, Clarisonic, cleanser, estee-lauder, Exfoliator, eye-cream, eye-shadow, face-scrub, Fashion Fair, Fashion\'s Night Out, macys, Mineral Makeup, moisturizer-with-spf, origins, Philosophy, Primer, serum, skin brightener, Strivectin, sue-devitt, tinted moisturizer, Urban Decay
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A Waterproof Bronzer That Works
I’ve heard this predicament before: “I don’t want to tan, but I want my face to have a sexy, glow. However, I apply bronzer in the heat and it melts off, which is far from attractive. What can I do?”
I commend anyone who doesn’t cave and bake to get a temporary tan, especially when there are options available like Tarte’s Matte Waterproof Bronzer. This best seller is a powder-based, shimmer-free formula that’s resistant to water. To see if it lives up to its claim, I put my trusty intern Cody to task and asked her to try it out in a variety of situations. Here’s how it held up:
Test 1: Shopping and strolling the city streets in high heat and humidity.
Result: Sweat droplets didn’t pick up the powder and drag it down my face. When I pat my face dry some color did transfer to the tissue, but not as much as what I normally experience with a regular bronzer.
Verdict: Pass!
Test 2: Dance class.
Result: I’ve given up on makeup for high intensity dance classes in barely air-conditioned dance studios. Between stretching and choreography, my face frequently brushes against other parts of my body. I evaluated my skin post visceral Adele choreography and noticed that my cheeks still had a bunch of color, but my forehead, the sweatiest part of my face, was somewhat bronzer free.
Verdict: Passed the test better than your average bronzer.
Test 3: Work day and running errands.
Result: Usually, I’m saying bye to bronzy skin after 3pm as a result of touching my face throughout the day and being out and about in the hot weather. At 6pm, I grabbed the Tarte bronzer for a touch-up before I went out to dinner, but looked into the mirror and realized my makeup was still intact. Cheeks had faded slightly, but it was not the bare 6pm face I was expecting to see.
Verdict: Pass!
All in all, this waterproof formula will get you through the nitty gritty. Sweating or splashing a little water on your face to cool down won’t wash away the makeup, but when you pat dry, a tiny bit of color will be transferred to the towel. Just don’t expect to do a big cannon ball in the pool and come out looking like Bo Derek. And don’t be surprised if it’s not as blendable as your basic bronzer. It’s meant to not budge, so a good tip for applying it and getting a natural finish is to use a small amount of powder with several light sweeps rather than just a few with a larger amount of product.
Posted in BG Tips, Q & A, Road Test, makeup, skin
Tagged bronzer, product-review, summer makeup, tarte, Tarte Matte Waterproof Bronzer, Waterproof Makeup
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