Beauty

Swarovski Debuts New Fall Fragrance

September 20, 2012

Nicki Minaj’s unique perfume bottle isn’t the only stylishly designed scent making a fall debut.

Swarovski’s Limited Edition fragrance, Swarovski Edition, (released earlier this month) is shaped like an elegant clutch that could be worn for a night out on the town instead of sitting pretty on your vanity.

A combination of metalized leather and golden crystals, the bottle is the perfect complement to the ultra-feminine fragrance. The mix of wild rose blossom and gardenia coupled with notes of white musk and cedar wood make this super sexy scent ideal for the fall season.

Honestly, I enjoy collecting cute and interesting perfume bottles more than I like the actual fragrances, but this gem is a win-win!

Eau de Toilette 1.7 Fl. Oz spray $70, available exclusively at Swarovski boutiques

Do you switch up your fragrances for different seasons?

Category: Beauty | 3 Comments

Designers ‘Nail It’ at NYFW

September 13, 2012

Despite having different styles aesthetics and visions, there’s one thing that all the designers used consistently during New York Fashion Week—gorgeous nails as accessories!

Whether a high-fashion couture show or ready-to-wear presentation, nail art was the premiere accessory to complement the designers’ looks.

From press-on manicures to easy-to apply appliqués to spotlight-stealing shades and textures, nail creativity seems to have hit a high note this season.

Check out a few of my fave looks:

Celebrity manicurist Gina Edwards applying ImPress Nails backstage at Betsey Johnson.

Model walking in Betsey Johnson show.

Close-up of the nails at Betsey Johnson.

butter LONDON 3-Free Lacquer Colours: Toff, Sloane Ranger, Knackered, Union Jack Black at the Veda presentation.

“Take a Bite” ColorFX Appliqué moon manicure at the Naeem Khan presentation,

What nail trends or colors are you looking forward to rocking this fall?

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Backstage Beauty: Rolando Santana S/S 13

September 12, 2012

When it comes to making models look super-human and runway-ready, hair stylists play a huge role.

At the Rolando Santana S/S 13 presentation on Wednesday, Aveeno Celebrity Stylist Patrick Melville transformed models’ lackluster tresses into perfectly tousled masterpieces.

Patrick Melville styling backstage at the Rolando Santana S/S 13 presentation.

He created volume and texture to strands with the help of Aveeno Active Naturals Pure Renewal Dry Shampoo to complement Santana’s water-inspired designs. “I chose this subtle, 70’s inspired style that gently swept tresses around the face to give a wispy, natural look,” commented Patrick. “The dry shampoo literally transforms the hair texture for more a more dramatic look.”

Aveeno Active Naturals Pure Renewal Dry Shampoo available here, $8

If my fellow naturalistas and relaxed BGs are wondering if dry shampoo is for us, you’d be pleasantly surprised to learn that it’s a great go-to for those in-between washings. It doesn’t completely strip away our natural oils, which is key to keeping our curly coifs cute and healthy. I’ve used this product before and it served as a wonderful and quick alternative to washing. That said, I obviously wouldn’t recommend using it too frequently to substitute standard shampooing.

Former “America’s Next Top Model” winner, Jaslene Gonzalez, backstage.

A model getting styled backstage.

Aside from the gorgeous hair on the runway, Santana’s designs were stunning! His aquatic inspiration was brought to life with sheer, flowing dresses in pretty pastels like sea foam green and powder blue. Embellished trousers, feathery blouses, pretty peplums, and metallic high-waisted skirts rounded out the ultra-feminine collection.

Overall, I spied several pieces that I’d warmly welcome into my spring/summer wardrobe!

Rolando Santana S/S 13 presentation

SPOTTED: Dania Ramirez and Jessica White

Have you ever used dry shampoo? If so, what are your thoughts?

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Category: Beauty, Fashion, Fashion Week | 1 Comment

FLOTUS Rocks a Tracy Reese Frock at DNC

September 5, 2012

Our First Lady Michelle Obama looked nothing less than stunning at the 2012 Democratic National Convention last night in Charlotte, NC.

Her bouncy bobbed tresses, sophisticated silk Tracy Reese dress, and pretty pink J.Crew pumps surely wowed viewers no matter their political stance.

Getty Images

Her chic, budget-friendly ensemble was only upstaged by her ever-eloquent speech. Obama’s message always hits home for me and fellow Americans because they come straight from her heart.

Now that the presidential campaign is shifting into high gear, we can look forward to seeing more knock-out styles and speeches from our ultimate fave FLOTUS.

In case you missed it, check it out below:

Did you watch Michelle Obama’s speech last night? Did you love her look?

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Category: Beauty, Michelle Obama, Style | 2 Comments

Flashback Post: Pucker Up in Purplish Hues!

August 30, 2012

**This post was originally published on September 30, 2009.

Everything old is new again and makeup is no exception! During my high school and early college days, dark, muted lips were all the rage and it looks like it’s making a strong comeback this season.

Me back in college circa 1998. Try to overlook the Aaliyah-esque swoop ‘do!

Celebrities such as Chanel Iman, Rihanna and Kelly Rowland have all been seen out and about sporting dark plum and berry-colored lips. The perfect alternative to classic red, purples add a bit of unexpected pizazz to puckers.

And if you’re afraid to try this trend, remember lip color is a fun and easy way to switch up your look without the commitment. I’ve been taking a trip down memory lane and revisiting this lovely look with Maybelline’s Color Sensational’s incredibly pigmented purplish hue, Madison Mauve. Not only does it provide a rich color, it moisturizers lips too!

Maybelline’s Color Sensational lip colors in Plum-Perfect,Madison Mauve, Plum-tastic, and Yummy Plummy (not pictured) available at drugstores nationwide, $7.49

Did you used to wear this lip color back in the day? If so, would you rock it again this fall for a vampy look?

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Category: Beauty | 3 Comments

Tracee Ellis Ross Reveals Her Hair ‘Miracle!’

August 27, 2012

Last week, Soft-Sheen Carson Optimum Salon Haircare invited me and fellow beauty bloggers and editors to an event introducing their newest product launch — the Miracle Oil Collection, here in New York City.

Hosted by one of our fave “curlfriends,” actress Tracee Ellis Ross, shared her personal experiences using the products (6-in-1 Miracle Oil, Miracle Oil Hair Moisturizer, Miracle Oil Hair Crème) on her coveted curls with the audience.

Tracee Ellis Ross sporting a summery ensemble paired with killer YSL shoes at the event.

“I love that the 6-in-1 hair oil really goes into the hair and penetrates the cuticles,” she said. “I put it (oil) in a spray bottle and I put it in my hair in the shower when it’s soaking wet. I move my hair around my shoulders, flip it over and squish it around with the water in my hair, and I don’t need any other products,” she continued.

Attendees were also treated to a funny video clip featuring Ross coming to the realization that she could eliminate several products with just one product — the 6-in-1 Miracle Oil.

Miracle Oil Collection available here ($5.99-$8.99).

After the event, I was most excited to try it to see if the multi-purposed 6-in-1 product would really live up to its claims of being a hot oil treatment, daily leave-in conditioner, scalp oil, heat protector, frizz controller, and dry skin hydrator. Luckily, I was pleasantly surprised! I put a few drops of the apricot, argan, avocado, coconut, jojoba, and sunflower-infused oil in my hair and on my daughter’s hair to see if it would provide sheen without feeling weighed down and it did! I then rubbed a little on my arms to see if it would absorb quickly without feeling greasy and it did!

I haven’t tried the other two products, but the Miracle Oilseems to be a great buy. Plus, it doesn’t have an overwhelming scent, which is always good for me. I used it all weekend and so far, it’s well on its way to becoming one of my bathroom staples!

Have you tried any of these products? Are you a fan of Tracee Ellis Ross’ curls?

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Category: Beauty, Featured, Hair | 2 Comments

Still Loving ‘Seventeen’

August 15, 2012

Even though I’m nearly double the age of 17, it doesn’t mean that I can’t learn a thing or two from the quintessential teen title, Seventeen.

In fact, the editors behind the mag have written, “Seventeen Ultimate Guide to Beauty,” a new book chock full of tips for hair, skin, and makeup that’s still applicable to me.

Available here, for $12

For those of us well beyond teenage territory, this beauty guide remains an excellent resource. From how to properly apply lashes to fun ways to style curly hair to DIY manis, this book boasts a bevy of beauty tips for BGs of all ages. Plus, the vibrant photos and splashy celebrity references add a cool appeal to the read.