Drugstore Deals and Steals

For May 31st through June 6th 2009

Rite Aid

L'Oreal: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on cosmetics
Almay: 40% off on Pure Blends and Smart Shades Face makeup, all eye and eye makeup removers
Revlon: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on all lip color
Phisoderm: 20% off on skin care
Physicians Formula: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on cosmetics
Maybelline: 3 for $9.99 on Great Lash or nail color only
Aveeno: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on skin care, sun care, bath care

Target

Revlon: Doubletwist mascara is priced at $6.99
Neutrogena: 3 oz SPF 100 Ultra Sunblock is priced at $10.99
L'Oreal: 4oz eye make-up remover is priced at $4.99
Olay: 1.7 oz Definity moisturizer or Regenerist sculpting cream is priced at $21.99

Walgreens

Revlon: Buy 1, get 1 50% off cosmetics
Maybelline: Buy 1, get 1 50% off cosmetics
L'Oreal: Buy 1, get 1 50% off Infalliable cosmetics
Ponds: 9.5 oz or 10.1 oz is priced at $5.99
Zeno: Mini Acne Treatment Device is priced at $79.99
Neutrogena: 14 Day Skin Rescue Kit is priced at $19.99
Perlabella Anti-Aging Pearls is priced at $12.99

CVS

L'Oreal: Buy 1, get 1 FREE on all lip products with CVS card
Buy any L'Oreal foundation, and get a FREE L'Oreal powder, blush or concealer with CVS card
L'Oreal Extra Volume Collagen mascara is priced at $7.99 with CVS card
Skin Genesis or Collagen is priced at $16.99 with CVS card
EverPure Shampoo, conditioner 8.5 oz or styler 1.7-8.5 oz is priced at $5.99 with CVS card
Age Perfect Pro-Calcium or Advanced Revitalift Deep-Set Wrinkle Repair is priced at $16.99 with CVS card
Skin Effects: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on skin care with CVS card
La Roche-Posay Anthelios: Get $5 extra CVS bucks with a purchase of any product from the brand with CVS card
Cetaphil: Save $1 on all Cetaphil products with CVS card
Physicians Formula: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on all cosmetics with CVS card
CoverGirl: Eyelights, Lashblast, lashblast luxe, volume or lash exact mascara is priecd at $5 with CVS card

I like candy when it's wrapped in a sweater: Tokyo Milk Fragrances

I first heard of this line after reading one of Jessica's reviews on Now Smell This. I loved the hodgepodge of notes and the adorable Esty-like packaging. These niche scents are carried at selected Anthropologie stores and Beautyhabit.com. My local Anthropologie did not carry the whole line but had a respectable number to test. I was impressed with the quality of the juice. The gardenia was beyond creamy and worthy of being in a Monyette Paris bottle. The lasting power was fair. I reapplied my scent every 4-5 hours. This means that I will go through my bottles like water. The price makes this fact less painful. The bottles retail for $28.

Sparrow's notes are Neroli (strong, creamy and heavenly!) & Citrus, crisp greens(whispery light), creamy Gardenia, and a drydown of Rosewood.
Song in D's(my personal favorite) notes are White Orchid, Orange Flower, Gardenia and Amber. This is lovely and sweet.
I want Candy's notes are a Crisp Apple, a bucket full of sweet Peaches, and a drydown of Violets and Roses. This is very light and perfect for the upcoming summer months.

Let me know what you think of this line in the comments.

What are your favorites from this line?

Visit Beautyhabit to check out the rest of this line's offerings: http://www.beautyhabit.com/tokyomilk_parfums.html

Disclaimer: I purchased these fragrance at Anthropologie in Cleveland.

Chantecaille Sample Sale in NYC




I had no clue that beauty brands had sample sales. This is such a delightful thing!

Chantecaille will continue their sample sale today from noon to 7pm. It is being held at 584 Broadway, Suite 1111(between Houston and Prince).
The last day will be Friday May 28 from 11am to 5pm. They are selling everything from skincare to the papillon eye shadows.

Let us know if you visit and if you cave on anything!

The Future's So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades: MAC's Bright Future Veluxe Pearl Eye Shadow

The main promotional photograph from the Style Warriors collection features a very fierce and intense yellow eye. It was applied to look like war paint. At first test, the yellow shade was buttery with a faint hint of opal fire. It was quite pretty and far from any type of fierceness.

When applied wet it was exactly like the photo. It was highly pigmented and wonderfully insane. This is for the hardcore beauty junkies and artists. This retails for $14.50 and is currently available at your local MAC counter.

Credits: Blogdorf Goodman, Title inspired by a Timbuk3 song from the 1980's and MAC

Disclaimer: A press sample of this product was provided by MAC cosmetics

Green grow the perfumes, oh! -- A review of Honoré des Prés fragrances
By Jessica M

Honoré des Prés is a new line of natural fragrances that recently arrived from France, bearing the “Ecocert” label. Four of the five fragrances were created by the well-known and much-admired perfumer Olivia Giacobetti, and all of them are blended from organic botanical essences without any synthetic ingredients. This line will appeal to “green” product-seekers, admirers of Giacobetti’s work, people who have experienced allergies to conventional fragrances, or anyone who is looking for a light fragrance for spring-summer wear.

Each eau de toilette from Honoré des Prés evokes a different aspect of the French countryside. Chaman’s Party is an earthy mix of vetiver and exotic woods; Nu Green is a minty herbal blend that has a revitalizing aromatherapeutic effect; and Honoré’s Trip (the only non-Giacobetti composition of the group) is a citrusy Mediterranean tonic. You’ll probably find your own favorite in this line, depending on your own personality and your own past encounters with nature. My own two favorites are Sexy Angelic and Bonté’s Bloom.

Sexy Angelic is a delicate gourmand fragrance that stays close to the skin. Its central notes are hemlock flower, angelica seed, and almond – specifically, the almond flavor of “Calisson” candy. Calisson is a Provençal speciality made from almond paste, similar to marzipan or nougat, sweetened with candied melon or orange. This almond note, in particular, makes Sexy Angelic feel like a little sister to Giacobetti’s Jour de Fête (from L’Artisan Parfumeur), but even softer and a bit more citrusy.

Bonté’s Bloom is outdoorsy without being a clichéd ozonic, “sporty” fragrance. It smells like a cluster of blooming herbs (including sage and chamomile), grasses, and wildflowers picked in a field. It develops gently with a few light, almost lemony, hints of rose and the most subtle base of iris butter. It’s unique, but it fits well into Olivia Giacobetti’s body of work: it feels like a cousin to other Giacobetti creations, such as L’Été en Douce from L’Artisan Parfumeur (which has a fresh linden note) or Eau de Lierre from Diptyque (with its green, vine-like heart).

The staying power of both these fragrances is, admittedly, on the mild side. You’ll probably want to refresh yourself with a few new spritzes at various points in the day. On one hand, I wish Honoré des Prés would release more concentrated versions of these scents – eau de parfum or even perfume oil. On the other hand, their airiness makes them perfect for summer wear, because they’re impossible to “overdo.” Even a generous spraying session won’t give you overwhelming sillage.

I won’t be traveling anywhere outside New York this summer, so I’m finding other ways to put myself in a vacation-like mood from time to time. Honoré des Prés fragrances are like mental picnics for me: just a few sprays, a deep breath, and I feel like I’m spending a day in the countryside.

To purchase Honoré des Prés fragrances from Bergdorf Goodman, call 212-872-2581.

For more information, and a list of online retailers, see http://www.honoredespres.com/

Honoré des Prés advertisement by Anouk Schneider.

Product photo by Jessica M, taken at Bergdorf Goodman.

Grapes of Wrath: MAC Vibrant Grape Satin Eye Shadow

I thought I owned every possible hue of purple eyeshadow. My collection is very heavy with blue violets with appearances from lilacs, lavenders, violets and the occasional eggplant. Vibrant Grape is perfectly coined and unique to my shadow stash. It is a concord grape shade that packs a lot of oomph in terms of vibrancy. I detected some shimmer but it is slight in the dazzleglass scheme of things.

I have swatched the shadow wet and smoked out. When applied wet, it has a metallic edge to it.

Vibrant Grape retails for $14.50 and is available at http://www.maccosmetics.com/

Let us know what you think of this shade or any of the other shadows in the Style Warrior collection in the comments.

Disclaimer: A press sample of this product was provided by Mac Cosmetics

Drugstore Deals and Steals

For May 24th through May 30th 2009

Rite Aid

Maybelline: Buy 1, get 1 FREE on cosmetics
Revlon: 40% off all Revlon eye makeup
Almay, Neutrogena, L'Oreal and Revlon: Buy 1, get 1 50% off only on lip products
Wet n'Wild: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on cosmetics
Physicians Formula: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on foundation,powder, bronzer, blush and concealers

Target

Aveeno: 3 oz face sunblock is priced at $7.99
15% off all other Aveeno skin care
Jergens: 5oz foaming or 7.5 firming moisturizer are priced at $7.49
10% off selected Jergens skin care
Pantene: 25.4 oz conditioner is priced at $5.50
Neutrogena: SkinClearing liquid makeup is priced at $9.99
Wave Powder Cleanser is priced at $11.99
10% off other selected Neutrogena skin care
L'Oreal: Epic Extra-Volume Collagen mascara is priced at $5.99
10% off selected L'Oreal cosmetics
Sally Hansen: 15% off on 14 ct wax strip kit

Walgreens

CoverGirl: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on cosmetics
L'Oreal: Genesis Moisturizer, L'Oreal Collagen or Wrinkle De-Crease items are priced at $19.99
Almay: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on cosmetics
Neutrogena: Buy 1, get 1 50% off Acne & Cleansing products(excludes Advanced Solutions Acne kit
Impruv: $5 Register Rewards good on next purchase of Impruv products
L'Oreal: Buy 1, get 1 FREE on face or lip products

CVS

Maybelline: Buy 1, get 1 FREE on mascara with CVS Card
L'Oreal: $2 extra CVS bucks when you purchase a True Match compact makeup for $12.99 with CVS card
Extra Volume Collagen mascara is priced at $7.99 with CVS card
Bare Naturale foundation, powder, blush or concealer is priced at $9.99 with CVS card
Bare Naturale mascara, eye shadow, eyeliner or lip tint is priced at $5.99 with CVS card
CoverGirl: Simply Ageless foundation is priced at $12.99 with CVS card
Neutrogena: Buy 1, get 1 FREE on Mineral Sheers cosmetics only with CVS card
Lumene: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on skin care with CVS card

Have some mercy on me
Do you have to be such a mercenary?

MAC Nail Lacquer is usually not a "one coat" affair. Most need 2-3 applications to get an accurate color pay-off. MAC's Mercenary has above average pigment power. One coat delivers color that looks like three applications. The shimmer power is gorgeous and fiery. The color is a smoky bronze shade. It is not brass like a penny but more dark and twisted. My co-worker/hand model Thais had concerns on how dark it was. She is generally drawn to corals, pinks and light shimmery shades.
This polish is currently at your local MAC counter. It retails for $11.


She's scheming inside
Can't stop the wheels turning
Been through it before
There's no profit or learning
She's not really bad
Just a gold-plated heart
So scared to be alone
It rips her apart
(lyrics from Go Go's)


Disclaimer: A press sample of this product was provided by MAC Cosmetics

Queens of the Wild Frontier

A new royal family
A wild nobility
We are the family
(Adam and the Ants)

Purple Rite is the stand out color in the Style Warrior collection. It is a frosty yet slightly warm orchid shade. I will be honest and say that I expected a Violetta dupe based on the initial pictures. This lippie is a wearable and a slightly quiet purple shade. I am currently wearing it with a layer of Sugarrimmed dazzleglass to add just a smidge of sparkle and jazz. It retails for $14 and can be currently found at your MAC counter.

My early thoughts on this collection is mixed. It has a very Peter Beard/Veruschka/early Iman vibe. The yellow shadow(Bright Future) is pretty magnificent. I can only imagine what Nova Baby and Judica can do with this shade.
I will be testing and photographing this collection for the rest of the week.

The next post will be about the nail polish called Mercenary.

At this very moment it is being applied to my co-worker's nails.

Let us know your thoughts on this new MAC collection in the comments.

Disclaimer: A press sample of this product was provided by MAC Cosmetics

Pat McGrath and Dolce & Gabbana Makeup at Saks Fifth Avenue
By Angie W and Jessica M

This weekend many lucky ladies had a chance to meet the wonderful, renowned makeup artist Pat McGrath, as she launched the new Dolce & Gabbana makeup line at the flagship Saks Fifth Avenue store in New York City. We were happy to be able to attend so that we could try some new cosmetics, meet Pat, and report back to Annie at Blogdorf Goodman!

When we arrived at the store, we were surprised to discover that the combination of the makeup launch and Pat McGrath's visit was an Event, with a capital E, complete with live models, television crews, photographers, and reporters. The Dolce & Gabbana counter had expanded to fill a large, central area of the first floor, with a giant, revolving billboard of Scarlett Johansson looming over the scene.


We began by sitting down with two makeup artists, Spencer and Javier, at adjacent stations. Since Angie wanted to focus on experimenting with several lip colors, Spencer began by applying Devil, a vibrant siren red that Angie loved right away. (Think L’Oreal Drumbeat Red with a richer, creamier, long-lasting formula.) However, Spencer had just wiped off the Devil when Pat suddenly swept in and grabbed Angie’s hand, telling her that with her beautiful, pale skin she needed red, wine, and rich rose shades. Angie was only slightly mortified that she was meeting Pat with just-wiped-off lips. She felt she looked like the Master in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," Episode 1. (“You have punch mouth!” – that’s for Annie!) Angie tried three colors: Devil, the much-coveted Dahlia -- which Pat specifically recommended for Angie's pale complexion -- and Ruby Sheer. In the end, she settled on Devil. The lipsticks are available in two formulations, Classic or Shine, and Devil is one of the Classics. Spencer had also paired Angie's Ruby Sheer lipstick with Nude blush and the Stromboli eye shadow duo (a shimmery nude as an all-over wash, with smoky black used as liner).

Meanwhile, Jessica was consulting with Javier about an eye-makeup look that would be soft but sophisticated. Javier went straight for the eye shadow quad called Nude, to enhance her dark brown eyes. Jessica was surprised for a second, because the Nude shades looked warmer than her usual colors, but then she was glad that she had trusted him. The orangey shade turned out to be a flattering, shimmery peach on her pale skin, and the medium brown blended into her eyelid crease with a velvety finish. Javier accentuated her lash-line with eyeliner in Coffee, a rich brown spiked with gold sparkles; it was a little bit edgy, but in a subtle, under-the-radar way. (Angie actually thought that of all the products we tried, the Coffee eyeliner was the most outstanding product in the line because its bronzy shimmer was so gorgeous.) Javier finished Jessica's look with Coffee mascara, which really did an amazing job of lengthening and emphasizing her lashes without the dreaded "spidery" look. A sweep of Nude blush and a coat of semi-frosty peach lipstick named Soirée were the final touches.

We were both dazzled by all the gold packaging and the flashing cameras, but we still managed to sight Pat McGrath a few times as she circulated from station to station. Pat was wearing all black: a flowing outfit, flat sandals with delicate straps, and a chunky, woven clutch. Her hair was long and sleek, and her skin was incredibly beautiful. Of course, the most noticeable thing about her was her warm, vibrant personality. She took time to touch up the makeup on a few customers, and to speak and shake hands with many more women around the room. It was easy to see how much these women admired her.

One of the more interesting aspects of our visit was a conversation with a New York Times reporter who asked us why we had come to the event. When we both immediately identified Pat McGrath as the main draw, the reporter was thrilled because we had confirmed her idea that Pat's celebrity status was the cause of the great enthusiasm for the event, rather than the Dolce & Gabbana brand itself or Scarlett Johannson's participation as the "face" of the products. Angie and Jessica both admire and respect Pat for her entrepreneurism, her artistic vision, and her many collaborations (including her design of the Armani cosmetics line and her involvement with Cover Girl, Max Factor, and other brands). We were sure that most of the other women in attendance were there for the same reason: to meet a woman who is a role model and unique artist.


For more information, see http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/
and http://www.dolcegabbanamakeup.com/
The phone number for the Dolce & Gabbana makeup counter at Saks is (212) 940-4949.

La Mer The Treatment Powder Foundation SPF 15

I visited my local La Mer counter recently and was delighted to spot a tester unit with three spots that looked suspiciously like concealer slots. I tried to contain my excitement and eagerness since this was not a SA that I usually deal with. She would not have any clue that I have been waiting for YEARS for this specific product. My blurting out " Thank you baby Jesus" or doing a little jig will only alarm and confuse her. I tried to keep my cool and not ask 1000 questions.

So with glee and excitement I can blurt out that a concealer in three shades will arrive at your local La Mer counter in the fall. This product has been cooking at La Mer for years. I have high hopes that it will change my life.

While trying to be calm and ladylike at the La Mer counter, I spotted a new powder foundation. This little diddy promised that smoke and mirrors effect that is working so well for me. It contains "airspun seaborne particles", gemstones and radiant ferment. All work to optically blur imperfections and improve clarity and brightness.

It comes in a white plastic case with a mirrored top. It opens with ease and features a rose tinged mirror. The powder lifts up to reveal a compartment to house the powder sponge. There is a white grate on the bottom to let air whiz through. Common sense and thought went into the packaging. It is simple and sci-fi at the same time.

The powder texture is feather light and silky. It feels amazing on the skin. The coverage is medium to full. I have tested this without makeup. It provided fair coverage over my problem areas and did not settle or cake into any pores. It stayed fresh better than my loose La Mer powder.

It retails for $95 and is available at Saks, Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman and http://www.lamer.com/. It comes in 8 shades: Porcelain, Ivory, Linen, Creme, Sand, Natural, Buff and Neutral.

Also read the great review at Makeup Bag. E is a huge fan!

http://www.makeupbag.net/

Disclaimer: A press sample of this product was provided by La Mer

Drugstore Deals and Steals

For May 17th through May 23rd 2009

Rite Aid

CoverGirl: Buy 1, get 1 FREE on lip or eye cosmetics
Revlon: 40% off on ColorStay cosmetics, DoubleTwist mascara or beauty tools
L'Oreal: Buy 1, get 1 FREE on eye, nail or HIP cosmetics
Almay: Buy 1, get 1 FREE on cosmetics
Sally Hansen: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on Lacross implements, lip or lip treatments
Herbal Essences: 2 for $6 on shampoo, conditioner or stylers
Nivea: Buy 1 $4.99-$19.99 body lotion and get a FREE Nivea lip care product
Yes to Carrots: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on skincare and hair care
Olay: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on skin or bath care products

Target

Suave: 18 oz Advanced Therapy is $2.69
Aussie & Herbal Essences: 10.17 Herbal essences shampoo, 10.2 oz Aussie hair spray are priced at $2.94

Walgreens

Revlon: Buy 1, get 1 50% off ColorStay cosmetics or implements
L'Oreal: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on eye cosmetics
Herbal Essences&Aussie and Pantene: 3 for $10 on styling products(1.7 oz to 14 oz) and Shampoo or conditioner(8 oz to 13.5 oz)
Caress: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on body wash(12-15 oz)
Neutrogena: Original shampoo 6 oz is priced at $4.99
Continuous Hydration cream or moisturizer is priced at $12.99
Continuous Hydration cleanser(5.1 oz) is priced at $6.99
**Buy 2 Neutrogena Hydration products and receive $3 in Register Rewards at checkout that will be good on your next in store purchase!***
Head & Shoulders: 2 for $9 on 13.5 or 14.2 oz on classic clean bottles
Aveeno: 20% off on baby, skin, hair or sun products
Olay: .4 to 2.5 oz Eye Restoration Complex, Wrinkle Smoothing Cream or Age Repair lotion are priced at $42.99
Starter Kit is priced at $62.99
Vaseline: 25% off 3.1 to 24.5 oz Intensive Care lotion only
L'Oreal: Advanced Revitalift is priced at $11.99
Deep set wrinkle repair is priced at $15.99
Sally Hansen: $2 off on lip or salon products

CVS

Revlon: Buy 1, get 1 FREE on eye or lip products with CVS card
La Roche-Posay Anthelios: Spend $35 on La Roche-Posay Anthelios products and get extra $10 CVS bucks with CVS card
Physicians Formula: 40% off on Formula Mineral Wear products with CVS card
L'Oreal: Extra Volume Collagen mascara is priced at $7.99 with CVS card
CoverGirl: $3 extra CVS bucks when your purchase a Outlast lip color or lip stain with CVS card
Sally Hansen: Buy 1,get 1 50% off on Healing Beauty cosmetics, Sally Hansen hair removers or cosmetics with CVS card
Milani: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on cosmetics with CVS card
Maybelline: Buy 1, get 1 FREE on Mineral Power Face or lip products with CVS Card
Maybelline Lash Stiletto, XXL Extensions or Define-A-Lash are priced at $6.99 with CVS card
Aveeno: Save $2 on Positively Ageless products with CVS card
Aveeno body wash(12 oz) or 8 oz lotion is priced at $6.99 with CVS card
Almay: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on all cosmetics with CVS card

Cheap & Cheerful: MAC Skincare
Review of Prep+Prime Skin Refined Zone

MAC's skincare products have been steadily improving in quality. From the gone but not forgotten Volcanic Ash Exfoliator to the Fix+Rose, MAC skincare is selling out just as fast as a dazzleglass or limited edition eye shadow.

I am currently testing Prep+Prime Skin Refined Zone. This is the latest edition in their primer series. This is a "partial primer designed for use in the T-Zone." It has a lightweight, soy based formula that mattifies on the skin. It helps minimize pores and controls shine. There is some "high tech optics" science going on in this little black tube. It contains advanced technology infused powder that fills in lines while creating a "smoke and mirrors effect". It sounds slightly kooky. You imagine that there will be some kind of "Elizabeth Taylor White Diamonds" effect. A very glamorous blurring of the face. Click on the youtube clip of the commercial to see what I am yammering about.

There is no blurring but just a slight difference in the skin. Pores seem to be closed for business. They are still there but your makeup is not sitting and glistening in their crater. MAC Prep+Prime Skin Refined Zone also contains a Mannose-Phosphate blend that gently exfoliates and silica particles to absorb oil. This product is said to reduce the actual size of pores over time. I have not witness any miracles but have been pleased with the results so far.

I have been having problems with my makeup these last few months. My primers and foundations appeared to go wonky on me. My makeup was disappearing or caking within hours. It made me look haggard and old. My current successful skin routine involves MAC moisturizer, MAC Prep+Prime Skin Refiner Zone, Prescriptives Super Line Preventor Xtreme Lifting Concentrate and MUFE HD foundation. This cocktail seems to be working. Makeup stays fresh and on my face.
Prep+Prime Skin Refined Zone retails for $17.50 and is currently available at your local MAC counter.
http://www.maccosmetics.com/



Disclaimer: A press sample of this product was provided by MAC

You Know You Love Me: Banila Co. The Secret Marble Blusher

This was a gift from my dear friend Koneko. She knows of my deep love of all things Gossip Girl. This is a shimmery highlighter that looks like glistening snow on the skin. Negative on any peach pigment coming through. It is breathtakingly lovely. I thought it was slightly similar to MAC's Moon River. I will have to do a side by side swatch at a later date.

The shade is called 06 Pleasure and it appears to be part of a large Gossip Girl collection. The collection includes palettes and lippies. For more information and fabulous pictures check out the awesome blogger, Lotus Place. This fellow MUA member will inspire mass lemmings and make you lose your mind.

http://lotuspalace.blogspot.com/2009/03/banila-co-gossip-girl.html

http://www.banilaco.com/

Drugstore Deals and Steals for May 10th through May 16th 2009

Target

Garnier Fructis: 13 oz shampoo and conditioner is $2.49
Other Fructis products are priced at $4.79
Olay: 11.8 oz Quench lotion or 6.8 oz Daily Renewal cleanser is priced at $4
10% off selected Olay skin care
Revlon: True Blush powder or ColorStay Overtime Sheer lipstick is priced at $6.99
10% off all other Revlon face, lip and nail makeup
Clean & Clear: 6 oz foaming cleanser is priced at $4.99
10% off all other Clean & Clear products

Rite Aid

Revlon: Buy 1, get 1 FREE on lip or eye products
L'Oreal: Extra Volume Collagen mascara is priced at $5.95
Maybelline: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on lip products
Sally Hansen: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on nail enamel, nail treatment or nail polish removers
Almay: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on foundation, blush, concealer or powder
Neutrogena: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on cosmetics,skin, bath & sun and hair care
Prestige: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on cosmetics
Physicians Formula: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on cosmetics
Nivea: $2 off My Silhouette or Beautiful Legs cream
Eucerin: 20% off skin care
L'Oreal: Revitalift and Age Perfect skin care is priced at $9.99
L'Oreal skin cleansers or eye makeup removers are priced at $5.99
Garnier Fructis: 25.4 oz Shampoo or conditioner is priced at $4.99

Walgreens

Almay: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on foundation,concealer,blush, powder or eye cosmetics
L'Oreal: Extra Volume Collagen Mascara is priced at $7.99
Buy 1, get 1 FREE on L'Oreal HiP cosmetics
Yes to Carrots: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on hair or skin care
Maybelline: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on lip or nail color
RoC: Buy 1, get 1 50% off skin care
Eucerin: Buy 1, get 1 50% off body care
Nivea: 25% off body and skin care

CVS

Maybelline: Buy 1, get 1 FREE on all Maybelline Dream cosmetics,lip , eye shadow or liner with CVS card
Revlon: ColorStay Ultimate lipstick is priced at $7.99 with CVS card
Revlon Double Twist mascara is priced at $5.99 with CVS card
Neutrogena: Extra Bonus Reward of $3.00 on a purchase of Moisture Shine lip color or Lip Sheers with CVS card
Buy 1, get 1 50% off on cosmetics(excluding Moisture Shine lip color or Lip Sheers) with CVS card
L'Oreal: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on L'Oreal cosmetics with CVS card
Age Perfect, Revitalift or Skin Genesis Cleanser(5-8 oz) or towelettes are on sale for $5.99 with CVS card
All L'Oreal Sublime Glow or Bronze products are priced at $5.99 with CVS card
Advanced Revitalift is priced at $11.99 with CVS Card
L'Oreal Age Perfect moisturizer is priced at $11.99 with CVS card
L'Oreal Extra Volume Collagen mascara is priced at $7.99 with CVS card
CoverGirl: Exact Eyelights, Lashblast Luxe, Volume or Lash Exact mascara are priced at $5 with CVS Card

Attention Office...Who here is planning a trip to Youngstown, Ohio?

My town and er...job got a shout out on The Office last night.

Pat McGrath Appearance:
Dolce & Gabbana Cosmetics debut at the Saks Fifth Avenue flagship location in New York City

When: Saturday May 16, 2009
One-on-one consultations by appointment only: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

What: McGrath and her team of fashion week artists will conduct personal consultations with customers to illustrate beauty tips and application techniques focusing on the naturally enhancing and transformative elements of Dolce&Gabbana The Make Up, as first seen on the runway during Milan Fashion Week.

Where: Saks Fifth Avenue
12 East 49th Street at 5th Avenue
Dolce&Gabbana The Make Up Counter, First Floor

Contact: Customers may schedule an appointment by contacting: 212-940-4949

What Blogdorf Goodman is thinking: OMG
Someone...anyone...take pictures of her or her makeup trunks. She is my hero. I heart her.

Feed Your Head: Intelligent Nutrients Leave-In Conditioner and Finishing Gloss
A review by Jessica M

My hair is temperamental at the best of times: it has a dual personality (part curly, part wavy) and it reacts to changes in the weather with its own wild mood swings. It recently went slightly crazy after I experimented with some products supposedly made for curly hair. Other people have raved about that particular line of products, but they made my hair feel rough and rebellious.

Fortunately, I came across Intelligent Nutrients just after this episode, and I’ve managed to soothe and comfort my hair with a couple of these new products. Intelligent Nutrients is the latest creation of Horst Rechelbacher, the man behind Aveda: after he sold Aveda to Estée Lauder in 1997, he waited out the terms of an eight-year non-compete agreement and then produced this line of certified organic hair and skincare products. Every Intelligent Nutrients formula contains Rechelbacher’s signature “Intellimune” blend of antioxidant cold-pressed seed oils, while excluding mineral oil, silicones, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, plastics, artificial colors, and artificial fragrances. (Whew!)

I’ve been using Intelligent Nutrients Leave-In Conditioner on a daily basis for the past two months, mixing a nickel-size amount with my favorite styling cream or gel, and it has noticeably improved the texture of my hair. It’s hydrating, thanks to humectant (i.e., moisture-attracting) ingredients like glycerin, but it doesn’t feel greasy or heavy. It’s also chock-full of botanical oils and other natural ingredients like rice bran extract. The Leave-In Conditioner’s scent is a bit unusual and intensely herbal, with oregano oil and rosemary (in a blend called “Restore”), but it fades by the time I finish drying my hair.

Intelligent Nutrients Finishing Gloss is a frizz-taming serum, and it has impressed me by doing its job without silicones. Instead of leaving deposits of synthetic ingredients that work well at first, but then end up weighing down (or even drying out) the hair, this light gloss uses jojoba oil, sesame oil, shea butter, and beeswax to condition hair while smoothing the surface. I’ve been putting just a drop or two on the ends of my layers, and the calming effect on my hair is really surprising. (This product can also be used as a spot treatment on dry areas of skin, like elbows, knees, and cuticles.) The Finishing Gloss is scented with a cheerful blend of light citrus notes (called “InnerCalm”).

I’m hoping to try a few more products from Intelligent Nutrients, especially its Styling Cream and Hair Spray, once I use up some of the other bottles and tubes in my arsenal. My hair has been much happier since I’ve added these two styling products to its diet, and the fact that they’re all-natural makes me happy too.

For more information, see http://www.intelligentnutrients.com/

Intelligent Nutrients products are available at Barneys New York, and the phone number for the Intelligent Nutrients counter at the Madison Avenue store is (212) 833-2508.

Today has been designated by the city of New York as CHANEL N°5 Day in celebration of the fragrance and the newest campaign. CHANEL and Saks Fifth Avenue have partnered for this significant occasion during which a portion of Fifth Avenue is being renamed AVENUE N°5 for the week of May 2 through May 10.

From May 2 through May 10, Saks Fifth Avenue’s New York flagship will pay
homage to the legendary scent by dedicating an extraordinary visual presence on the exterior and interior of the store. The 17 windows along AVENUE N°5 will
display a thematic journey into the world of CHANEL N°5 inspired by the Train de
Nuit film as well as selections from the current CHANEL Ready-to-Wear collection.
The fragrance will be prominently displayed on the main floor and in outposts
throughout the store. A full cinematic presentation of Train de Nuit will take place
on the main floor.
“We are honored to partner with the city of New York and Saks Fifth Avenue to
name May 5th ‘CHANEL N°5 Day,” says John Galantic, President and COO of
CHANEL, Inc. “We are pleased to share the excitement of this iconic product with
New York on this symbolic day in our brand’s history.”

Calling all NYC readers....Can you get us a picture of the windows or the street sign?
I would love to see this!!!!

Train De Nuit debuts today!


This is the new short film for Chanel No 5 starring Audrey Tautou.
It was directed by her Amelie director,Jean-Pierre Jeunet.
My swooning started when I heard Billie Holiday singing “I’m a Fool to Love You”.

Let us know what you think in the comments!

Chanel's Les Naturels De Chanel Collection: "Luxury is intrinsically bound to simplicity"-quote from Chanel

This is a collection comprised of neutral makeup shades ranging from mattes to subtle shimmers. The collection is simple, classic and wearable. Very Chanel worthy.

The eye shadows are sheer perfection. Lily is a matte whispery pink. Lotus is a beige shimmer. Both shades give a brightening effect on the lid. I am already loving Lotus as a solo shade for the lids. It is more frost-like than a standard shimmer. One swipe and my eyes look polished and elegant. It is simple and genius at the same time.

Slate is a matte gray taupe while Mahogany is a rich matte brown that smokes out brilliantly. Lily and Slate are limited edition and available only in the US.

The blush is called Orchid Rose. It is a more nude based pink. It does not go muddy or dirty on the face. I was pleasantly surprised and delighted with the effect. Nude themed blushes have not been a success for me. This blush is heavy on the rose fragrance and only carries a slight shimmer.

The glossimers come in three shades. Waterlily is a shimmer pink.

Bel Air is a peachy pink. Both of these shades are limited edition.

I tested the glossimer called Unity. It is a soft rosy brown.

These are the 4 shades of the Correcteur Perfection Long Lasting Concealer. The shades in order are Beige Clair, Beige Ivorie, Beige Petale and Beige Santal. My best match is the Biege Clair. Beige Petale has this lovely pink cast to it. It is a gel based formula that is creamy with full coverage. It is surprisingly not thick or paste-like. These will retail for $40 and will be available in May 2009 at your local Chanel counter.

Disclaimer: A press sample of this product was provided by Chanel.

The Vibrating Mascara Movement Hits the Drugstore:
Maybelline Vibrating Mascara One Day Preview Online Sale on May 18th 2009.

Maybelline will be the first drugstore brand to launch a vibrating mascara. This mascara will debut at your local drugstore in June and will retail for $14.95. For one day(May 18th 2009) it will be available for purchase online at maybelline.com/pulse,Target.com, Walmart.com, CVS.com or Walgreens.com.

Maybelline promises intense color, increased thickness, 75% longer length and clump free lashes. This vibrating mascara delivers 7,000 vibrations per minute with just a click of a button. The Pulse Perfection battery lasts a minimum of 130 applications. Assuming a consumer applies the mascara once a day, once activated, the battery will last 130 days, or over 4 months.

Will this mascara be the next CEW winner? Will it be the next Great Lash?
I might need to test this one out.
Let us know if you cave on this May 18th!

Drugstore Deals and Steals for May 3rd through May 9th 2009

Rite Aid

CoverGirl: Buy 1, get 1 FREE on cosmetics
Booths: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on skin and body care
Maybelline: Buy 1, get 1 50% off cosmetics
Almay/Neutrogena/L'Oreal and Revlon: Buy 1, get 1 50% off lip cosmetic products
Garnier: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on Nutritioniste skin care
L'Oreal: $14.99 on skin care
Revlon & Borghese: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on all nail enamel
Physicians Formula: Buy 1, get 1 FREE on bronzers
Revlon: $3 single rebate check on all Revlon foundation
L'Oreal: Buy 1, get 1 50% on eye cosmetics
Veet: 20% off of regular price

Target

Bumble and Bumble 8 oz shampoo is priced at $14.99
L'Oreal Elnett hair spray(exclusive to Target) is priced at $14.99
Physicians Formula: Bronzer Shimmer Strips is priced at $9.59
Sonia Kashuk Bronzed Face Look book and brush is priced at $17.99
CoverGirl: Outlash Lipstain lip color is priced at $6.49
Nivea: Goodbye Cellulite gel is priced at $9.99
Neutrogena: 5.3 oz micro-mist tanning spray or Ultra sheer SPF 85 sunblock is priced at $8.99
Revlon: PediExpert is on sale for $8.99
Sally Hansen: Diamond Strength nail color is priced at $3.50
Bliss: Bikini Perfect Trimmer is priced at $44.99
You will also get a FREE $5 Target GiftCard with the purchase of this product!
CHI: The 1" ceramic hair straightener is priced at $99.99

Walgreens

CoverGirl: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on cosmetics or Play Regenerist skin care
L'Oreal: Telescopic, Voluminous or Lash Out mascara is priced at $4.99
Revlon: ColorStay lip color is priced at $7.99
Neutrogena: Buy 1, get 1 FREE on eye or lip cosmetics
Maybelline: Mineral Power, Dream Matte or Superstay foundation is priced at $7
Instant Age Rewind or Pure foundations are priced at $5
Aveeno: 20% off hair, sun, baby and skin care products
L'Oreal: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on Sublime bronze products
Nair: Hair Remover lotion or cream(5.4 oz or 9 oz) is priced at $3.99
CeraVe Skin Care: $2 off on lotion or cleanser(12 oz) and cream(16 oz)

CVS

CoverGirl: Buy 1, get 1 FREE on all lip products with CVS card
Buy 1, get 1 50% off foundation,powder, blush, concealer or mascara with CVS card
Neutrogena: Spend $15 and get $5 extra CVS bucks when you buy any Neutrogena skin care with CVS card
University Medical Skin Care: Spend $20 and get $10 extra CVS bucks when you buy any University Medical Skin Care or Regenetresse with CVS card
Physicians Formula: Buy 1, get 1 %05 off on cosmetics with CVS card
Extra CVS bucks reward of $5 when you purchase Physicians Formula Plump Potion lipstick or Lip Plumping Cocktail with CVS card
L'Oreal: Buy 1, get 1 FREE on all HiP cosmetics
Revlon: ColorStay Ultimate Liquid Lisptick is priced at $7.99 with CVS card
Sally Hansen: Buy 1, get 1 50% off on Diamond Lip,Insta-Dri Nail Color or Nail Art Pen with CVS card

CEW Awards

There was some strong competition in the mascara and lippie categories this year. Lancome and YSL emerged to take the final prize.

MAC Dazzleglass...you put in a good clean fight. We were no match for that amazing YSL lipstick formula.
Just remember sometimes the best are not awarded with a trophy. Barbara Stanwyck never took home an Oscar. Neither did Garbo.

The 2009 CEW Beauty Awards winners are as follows

Bath & Body

Body Treatment - Mass
Avon Products , Inc. Anew Clinical Professional Stretch Mark Smoother

Body Treatment - Prestige
Ojon Tawaka™ "The Ball"

Scented Bath & Body - Mass
Vickery & Clarke Natural Apothecary Eucalyptus & Peppermint Cold & Sinus Soak

Scented Bath & Body - Prestige
Fresh Fig Apricot Bath and Shower Gel


Facial Skincare

Acne Treatment
Clean & Clear® Advantage® Blackhead Eraser™ Exfoliating Cleanser

Anti-Aging - Mass
Olay Regenerist 14 Day Skin Intervention

Anti-Aging - Prestige
Clinique Even Better Skin Tone Corrector

Cleanser & Scrub - Mass
Neutrogena Wave™ Power Cleanser and Deep Clean Foaming Pads

Cleanser & Scrub - Prestige
Fresh Appleseed Brightening Exfoliant

Eye Treatment - Mass
Garnier Nutritioniste Skin Renew Anti-Puff Eye Roller

Eye Treatment - Prestige
Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Eye Treatment

Moisturizer - Mass
Olay Definity Color Recapture

Moisturizer - Prestige
ESTÉE LAUDER Time Zone Line and Wrinkle Reducing Moisturizer SPF 15

Hair

Hair Care , Style & Coloring - Mass
Avon Products , Inc. Advance Techniques Grey Root Touch-Up

Hair Care , Style & Coloring - Prestige
Living Proof , Inc. Straight Making No Frizz Styling Cream for Medium to Thick Hair

Makeup

Eye Product - Mass
L'Oréal Paris Double Extend Beauty Tubes Mascara

Eye Product - Prestige
Lancôme Ôscillation

Face Product - Mass
CoverGirl Simply Ageless Foundation

Face Product - Prestige
Giorgio Armani Face Fabric Foundation

Lip Product - Mass
Avon Products , Inc. Pro-To-Go Lipstick

Lip Product - Prestige
YSL Rouge Volupté Silky Sensual Radiant Lipstick SPF 15

Men's Grooming

Men’s Grooming
ZIRH Holdings LLC Drenched

Scent

Men's Scent
PUIG USA Prada Infusion d'Homme Eau de Toilette Spray
Fragrance Supplier: GIVAUDAN

Women's Scent - Mass
Avon Products , Inc. Bond Girl 007
Fragrance Supplier: FIRMENICH

Women's Scent - Prestige
Harajuku Lovers Fragrances "G"
Fragrance Supplier: FRAGRANCE RESOURCES

Sun

Sun Product - Mass
AVEENO® Continuous Protection Sunblock Spray SPF 70™

Sun Product - Prestige
Clarins Delicious Self Tanning Cream

Indie Beauty Award
NIA 24®