All About The Pretty

Holiday Makeup with Lancome

Here are a few photos of holiday products from Lancome. 

Is this compact not too-die-for.  I can see taking this on a few trips.  I know my friend Celina, who is in love with all things palette, would love this.

For my lip gloss junkies, this is too cute for words.  This Juicy Tube Lip Gloss set is the best.  As I told Dolo's mother when she asked why do I love lip gloss so much - it goes with everything.  I could put one of these lip glosses in a few purses and will always have a gloss with me.  I could also leave a couple in the glove compartment of my car for last minute touch ups during my weekend drives. 

I'm only home for a few days, but I can see me getting ready for my birthday with a trip to makeup counter.

Frederic Fekkai: Hair Product That I Can't Live Without

One of the few positive things that my pregnancy hormones gave me was thick, full hair. In order to keep it looking beautiful and shiny even after the birth of my son, I use Frederic Fekkai Glossing Cream. It contains pure olive oil that helps fight the heat and humidity of Houston.  I apply it before I blow dry and let it work its magic. The result is no frizz, healthy looking hair.  Fekkai even has an accompanying shampoo and conditioner.  The products are somewhat pricy, but worth the splurge.  You can find them at select department stores like Bath & Bodyworks, Nordstrom's and Neiman Marcus.

Dolo - Partner in the Pretty

Dolo - Partner in the Pretty

I mentioned earlier this week that my very good friend Dolo will be writing on the site.  Her first post will be tomorrow.  She will be incorporate her beauty favorites, products that are bringing her joy, and what makes her feel "All About the Pretty."  She's a new mom, fellow Southern girl, and sweet as pecan pie.  Ladies, please welcome Dolo as my Partner in the Pretty.

Rx for Brown Skin Moisturizer

Is it fall or is it still summer.  Some days I don't know.  I know in Texas it usually feels like summer year-round, but I feel like I need more sun protection - and I also need those items to make my face "glow." I don't mean sweat.  The early mornings and late nights have made my face look a little on the sallow side.  (I can't completely blame work, it may be the fact that I'm eating like I have no sense and drinking margaritas for sustenance).  I am going to need at least a few days to detox before my yoga conference this weekend.  But my Susan Taylor Bright and Even Exfoliating Moisturizer is helping big-time.  Dr. Susan Taylor is a premier dermatologist that has created products targeting women of color.  It's sold exclusively right now at Sephora and it's definitely something to checkout if you are a woman of color. 

The Bright and Even is a brightening moisturizer.  I have been using it a few days and realize that it's definitely a product I can alternate with my daily moisturizer since I don't suffer from hyperpigmentation.  The problem with most people dealing with hyperpigmentation is that they use products all over the face instead of using it as a spot treatment.  A lot of the over-the-counter skin lighteners contain 2% hydroquinone, which should be used on the dark areas only.  It can even out skin tone, but it can also cause lightness in areas that you really don't want to lighten up.  If you are experiencing a lack of luster this product may be for you.  As with any skin problems, check with your dermatologist to make sure you are doing everything right. 

Remember, pretty makeup looks good on pretty skin.

This Maiden Found Her Beauty

The weather in Houston has been gorgeous these past few days.  I know once I finally return to DC and the cold I'm going to miss this mild fall weather.  But, in other traveling news, I'm headed to Prague on November 8 for work.  Whippee!  Talk about cold.  The high is 35.  BRRRRR!  In preparation for the cold, I want to make sure my lips can deal with the temperature.  I've been prepping endlessly with Maiden Beauty Lip Scrub and Tasty Tint Lip Balm (don't you love the name Tasty Tint).  Lips need exfoliation, as well as, the rest of the body.  Since I'm rocking my custom blend bronzer everyday, I went with the Smart Lip Tint which has a sheer caramel color.  You can always add a little shimmer gloss for a little more effect.

Have a very pretty day.

Pretty Script.  I finally convinced Dolo to start being a Partner in the Pretty with me.  She will be starting in the next few weeks writing about her beauty obsessions.  Every time we get together we talk books, food, travel, and beauty.  We are still talking about everything, but it now includes babies, not mine - hers.  I was blown away when I came home and saw that she still looked as fabulous as ever with a newborn.  If I'm lucky enough to have my own, I must get her secrets.  Here is a photo of my great-nephew and godson Josiah.  Is he not the cutest thing you have laid eyes on.  I just couldn't stop smelling him.  I'm so in love . . . and broke. :)

Reading Pretty: New England White by Stephen L. Carter

Stephen L. Carter is a professor of law at Yale University.  I think working in a law firm always makes a person interested in reading fiction by someone in the legal field.  I often ask myself  - does this person capture the true essence of a firm. which is hideously wrong in television.  I always wonder did anyone ever spend time with a lawyer to come up with that story line.  This leads to an interesting discussion about what makes a good book.  For me a good book is (1) intriguing, (2) makes me want to lose sleep to read it, and (3) makes me want to tell the world that the bookstore is a better place with this author's book in it. 

This is the case with New England White.  I had become a fan of Mr. Carter's after reading his first book The Emperor of Ocean Park.  It was a good read about the black upper class in which most books do not delve in this dynamic.  I was further interested in how you take that perspective and make a mystery.  I could say that I wanted to read the book because one of the main characters and I share the same name, but it was to enjoy Mr. Carter's luscious-page-turning-I can't get to sleep-thriller.  He's still on tour with this book, so it would be sad of me to wonder when the next book is coming out.  I was able to meet Mr. Carter at the book festival and he was delightful, charismatic, and funny.  He has that dry and intelligent sense of humor which I love.  For someone with that kind of intellect it's easy to take them as stodgy.  Not one ounce of stuffiness.  If you want to read a thought provoking mystery, this is your book.  Mr. Carter has crafted another beautifully written tale.

It is with the reading of books the same as with looking at pictures; one must, without doubt, without hesitations, with assurance, admire what is beautiful. (Vincent Van Gogh)

MAC Holiday - VivaGlamorous

Get ready for some new MAC for the holidays.  Here's a look at VivaGlamorous.  These holiday compacts are making their debut with the signature crown icon of MAC Royal Assets.  This collection comes in two palette choices, cool and warm, each one featuring three Viva Glam Finishes.

Remember all proceeds go the MAC AIDS Fund, so not only are you buying the beauty, you are supporting Pretty Philanthropy. 

Viva la lipstick. 

I Need More Space - Space NK

I can use any excuse to pick up products.  Traveling - well I need something new.  Last week in NY, I made my way after lunch to Space NK in Soho.  I knew the store had been open for a few months, but walking in and experiencing it on a gorgeous afternoon day was a great highlight.  It takes me a while to sniff, spray, and swoon and then I finally settled on a few products in the Soulful Collection.  I didn't need to miss another train like I had before in NY.  A good bath and a great bed is the pick me up I really need after the end of a long day.  I am a huge fan of a good bed.  It's all about the sleep when I'm away.  The line includes a body wash, lotion, body balm, perfume, and my favorite  - body oil.  For some reason oils are really making a huge comeback for me.  If you are craving some space - check out Space NK.

Have a very soulful day.

This Kiss, This Kiss . . . It's Beautiful

I've been home five days and although I'm elated, I think all the driving has started to go to my head . . . and not in a good way.  The food has just been joyous.  If you have never had Tex-Mex you don't know what you are missing.  Plus, the margaritas are too good for words.  I tried to pack minimal products and keep a few things out of the makeup kit.  But, for dinner I need simple and clean makeup.  Just a few coats of mascara, a swipe of blush and red lips.  The P.S. Kiss by Lancome lipstick has been getting major usage.  It's a really great burgundy/red that works for well on my skin.  I have to convince Dolo to get it because she really looks good with red lipstick.  The only words that come to mind are the lyrics of the Faith Hill song This Kiss. 

For all the brown girls who considered not to get this - hurry to the nearest Nordstrom or Neimans or wherever it may be sold and swipe, swipe, swipe; blot, blot, blot, and enjoy the beauty. 

It's the way you love me, it's a feeling like this;
It's centrifugal motion, it's perpetual bliss;
It's that pivotal moment, it's aaah subliminal;
This kiss, this kiss, it's criminal;
This kiss, the kiss

It's the way you love me baby, it's the way you love me darling, yeah

Lyrics from the song "This Kiss" performed by Faith Hill

Kaia House Discount for AATP Readers

Kaia House, a premier a natural on-line purveyor of pretty is giving All About the Pretty readers a 10% discount on all orders of $25. The code is GREEN008, which gives you a great opportunity to try products such as Hugo Naturals, Hamadi, Pangea Organics, Red Flower and Kimberly Sayer of London.  I'm a Red Flower and Pangea Organics fan.

Green and pretty.

Ted Gibson: Can He Give Me a Goodnight's Sleep?

Sorry for being late with the posts my lovely ladies.  I was staying with a friend who did not have the internet.  After the OMG and WTF, I was like I need something.  So I headed to my ATT store and picked up my own wireless card because this lip gloss can live without a lot of things, but the internet isn't one of them.  My two new nephews, Colin and Josiah, are super cute and cuddly.   The baby thought flew past my mind for one minute, until the screaming and I was like "here's ya mama."  Well onto what's beautiful today in my world. 

I have been ogling over the Ted Gibson's Goodnite Serum.  I keep telling myself that once my hair gets long enough I want to get this serum.  I don't know why I want it so bad.  Is it because I think it will work? Or is it because I adore Ted Gibson, he's from Texas, and I want shiny luscious long hair like I used to have.  Those were the days when Chi was not a household word and Ted was probably playing with his Barbie Makeup Head like I used to.  I know in a few months I will be using his styling sheets and his gardenia scented hairspray.  But the impatient person in me wants this serum. 

I'm going to be good for now.  I don't know how long I can hold out.  It hurts just thinking about it. 

Have a great day.

Aromafloria Coupon for October

Here's another coupon from AROMAFLORIA for my readers. It ends 10/31/07.  If you are starting to make your Christmas wish lists and gift lists, this may be write up your alley.

Oh Baby: Diptyque Olene

A lot of people do not realize that Diptyque also makes fragrance.  I have been addicted to their candles for years.  Baies is always on the rotation, but Gardenia and Chevrefuille have made their appearances as well. I was going through my "perfumes with a few sprays left" and came by Olene.  With luscious notes of wisteria, narcisuss and white flowers I'm feeling a bit nostalgic today. 

It could be that I've been listening to lots of 80s music or it could mean that the end of Olene is the beginning of a new scent endeavor. 

I was in NY yesterday for a Prescriptives Launch Event and had lunch at Le Pain Quotidien with the adorable Marina of Makeup Loves Me.  Time flies when you are talking about beauty.  When did that hour creep up on us?  I thought we just sat down and now we are saying goodbye.  We air kissed goodbye as Marina pointed me to the subway.  I ended up in Soho.  Imagine my utter disappoint when I arrive at the new Korres store only to see a sign saying that it will open on Friday.  Bummer.  But, in all beauty disappoints come beauty triumphs.  I left Korres and headed straight for Space NK.  This airy UK outpost totally made me feel better as I picked up travel products for my upcoming trip.  I told Patricia, the most helpful one in the store, that I would be back with the potion lady sometime soon.  Mother is going to love this store. 

One bonus of Soho is Balthazar.  This French bistro serves great breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but it's the desserts that make my day.  After walking the pavement I was in need of sustenance.  The kind that only comes from something sweet and has chocolate - 4 scrumptious profiteroles later I was ready to tackle 5th Avenue. I left my footprints at Bergdorf's, Bendels, and Takashimaya, headed for a quick glass of wine with another friend, and headed home on the train.  My day was so lovely and my makeup so gorgeous that I didn't want to wash my face last, but I did. 

Have a great day.

Reading Pretty: Beauty Confidential

Beauty Confidential is Nadine Haobsh's hilarious, on-point, and super cute beauty read.  You might know her as Jolie in NYC, her widely popular and successful beauty blog. Nadine is a former magazine beauty editor, turned blogger.  This book is really a lot of fun.  She lists the products that rock her world and rock her beauty counter.  She learned lots of tricks while working her way up the masthead, but it's her wit and humor that makes this such a lovable book.  As I was reading it, the same thought came through my mind.  This is like having a beauty pow-wow at Sephora with your best girlfriend.  Her list of products are amazing and some products are cult staples that we all must have in our makeup bag like NARS Orgasm blush.  I was salivating when as she described the press trip on page 211, full of massage, after massage, after massage.  I need one of those trips.  Nadine offers all types of beauty knowledge, from how much to tip your hairdresser to what to not let a nail technician do to your nails.  Beauty Confidential is available October 30.  Do your beauty obsessed self a service and get this book.   

In other great news, I'm headed to Houston for "the job that pays the beauty bills" for two weeks.  I was already headed home for a wedding this weekend.  I can enjoy family, friends, down home Southern cooking, and Ms. Juanita at NM.  I will still be writing and trying products.  I was told by my friends of their daily beauty fix needs, so I'm going to try with all my lip gloss might to write everyday.

Kissable Couture: Kissable, If You Can Get It Out the Tube

I first thought it was me.  But a friend said she had the same problem.  You love the packaging.  It's beautifully wrapped when you receive it.  The colors are beautiful, when you can dig it out of the tube.  This is how I feel with Kissable Couture Lip Glosses.  I like them.  I like Keisha Whitaker, but I love A.J. Crimson.  He's a wonderful makeup artist.  My main complaint with the product is the amount that comes on the sponge.  I don't like lip glosses where I have to dig and dig as though I'm digging a lip gloss well to get the product.  But for this price, I need easy application.  I need product that flows.  My solution was to take off the plastic that separates the wand from the tube.  This worked, but I can't carry the glosses around because the product oozes into the handle.  The only solution was to stand it up in the the lip gloss bowl (a bowl filled with lip glosses).  I can only use it at home and not on the road because reapplying is not an option.  The colors are yummy (Forest and Dylan), but what good is the color if you have to work to put it on.

Maybelline Hearts Julia Stegner

Maybelline New York Worldwide announced today that Julia Stegner, the stunning German supermodel and media star, has become Maybelline's newest spokesperson.  She joins Maybelline New York's prestigious roster of A-list celebrities including Christy Turlington, Erin Wasson, Adriana Lima, and Zhang Ziyi. 

Julia will make her sensation television and print debut for Maybelline New York in February 2008.

 

MAC Antiquitease: Beauty Claus is Coming to Town

Isn't it lovely.  Isn't it wonderful.  Look at how luscious the Holiday Collection for MAC is. 

Beauty Claus is coming to town carrying on her sleigh MAC's Antiquitease Holiday Collection. 

Lipstick:  Gilty Kiss - yellow gold with gold pearl (frost); Her Fancy - sheer light pink with gold pearl (frost); Antiquitease - copper with red pearl (frost); Queen's Sin - intense red with red pearl (frost); Budding Lust - deep neutral plum (frost); Lipglass:  Red Romp - mid-tone red with read pearl (frost); Corsette (dirty grey brown with gold pearl (frost); Trifle (white pink with pink pearl (frost); Majestic - yellow gold with gold pearl (frost); Mineralize Eye Shadow Duo:  Silversmith - silver blue with dirty mid-tone blue and white veining (frost); Earthly Riches - deep plum and dirty deep grey with pink veining (frost); Engaging - pinky beige and yellow gold with rose veining (frost); Family Silver - dirty light silver and gold tone; Mi' Lady - intense blood red and rich purple with white veining (frost); Pigment - Gold Stroke - mid-tone chocolate brown with red pearl; Your Ladyship - creamy white gold pearl; Sweet Sienna - dirty brown with grey pearl; Fluidline:  Uppity - yellow gold with gold pearl; u - solid flat black; Fibre Rich Lash in All Black; Nail Lacquer - Vestral - creamy white (cream); Gold Veneer - tarnished yellow gold (frost).

mark Honey Jasmine Dry Oil Mist

I don't know what the beauty executives are doing over there at Avon, but they need to keep it up.  I thought they would stop making fun stuff and good beauty products.  Then, Leigh my beloved mark representative tells me about this Honey Jasmine Scent.  I kept thinking that I didn't need another body spray.  But the HJ was calling me - cooing and singing that I needed to be explored.  As the weeks keep getting busier and busier I wanted something to give me a new loving feeling. 

Honey Child - I'm loving this.

When Aestheticians Turn Mean

This is a very interesting article on facialists in the NY Times.  I'm so glad my much adored Nora of Skin Beauty Lounge is so not like this, unless I haven't been exfoliating and she lets me know, but I still love how my face looks after a session with her.

Stylist: The Interpreters of Fashion

Stylist:  The Interpreters of Fashion is a new book that lists the top stylists according to the editors of Style.com.  There are interviews with each stylist and the introduction is by Anna Wintour.  Only 16 people made the list:  Paul Cavaco, Grace Coddington, Carlyne Cerf de Dudzeele, Edward Enninful, Loria Goldstein, Tonne Goodman, Andrea Lieberman, Polly Mellen, Camilla Nickerson, Carine Roitfeld, Venetia Scott, Karl Templer, Melanie Ward, Alex White, Brana Wolf, and Joe Zee.

For all those interested in fashion, this might be something to check out. 

Beauty News Friday

My weekend has started off pretty good thus far.  Starbucks didn't have any Grande cups, so I was upgraded to a Venti.  (It's the small things that make me smile).  Wolfang Puck's new eatery The Source has just opened in DC, which means I must try it sometime this month, and it's finally cool enough to start making corn and crab chowder this weekend. 

• Chloe Eau de Parfum due hits stores in February.  Saks is part of its exclusive launch.
• Dita Von Teese is writing a book entitled How to Create Nostalgic Beauty.  I will definitely be picking this up.  I love Dita.  I read every article on her that's written.  I love the glamour that she represents.  Plus she likes slips.  Old fashioned slips to sleep in, no pajamas, just like me.  I love this.
• Lush Handmade Cosmetics will create in-store boutiques at certain Macy's.  As of right now, I do not know which Macy's but a few stores in Illinois and Michigan already have them.
• RUMOR:  Because of her new deal, Madonna's name may be licensed for future products, such as a fragrance.  RUMOR
• Korres just opened its new store in Soho. I will be in NY on Wednesday and I will definitely be heading there after my appointment.
• Orlane has introduced Creme Royale anti-aging treatment products for Neiman's 100th anniversary and has 24-karat liquid gold in the cream.

Today, there was a report that showed lead in certain lipsticks.  For your information, here's the link to the organization and more about it.  I am just reporting it.  It does not personally change how I view lipsticks, but this is me.  You have to make the best choices for you concerning your beauty.

Have a fabulous and beautiful weekend.  Au Revoir and Besos.

Southern Belle with Belle Fleur Candles

I was thrilled to meet the owner and florist - Meredith Waga Perez of Belle Fleur NYC last night.  Many of you may recall that I had a love affair with their candles in August on my trip to NYC.  It was fun to meet such a lovely, vibrant, and of course, beauty obsessed woman.  I told her that I still have an article from House and Garden where she did the most lovely bouquet of flowers.  I then asked questions to get the 411 on all the candles.  I told her that the Mayan Tuberose was my absolute favorite and we both agreed that this is truly a "bedroom candle."  After picking up another Mayan Tuberose and Orange Blossom Pomegranate (for the living room) my Wednesday night was complete - until I got home in time to watch Gossip Girl.  The new collection of candles - 5 brand new scents debut December 1.  The only name I could remember was Chocolate and Tobacco.  You know I'm all over these new candles for my birthday, plus I need to get a few for my beloved girlfriends. 

"Southern girl, don't you know ya good to me and I dig you so.
I wouldn't be right here if you hadn't been right there
Southern girl, southern girl
Southern girl, southern girl."

Words and music by Maze featuring Frankie Beverly

Twice the Yoga Fun with Aveda Active Composition

I don't what I was thinking yesterday.  I decided to take two back-to-back yoga classes to prepare my body for a yoga conference next month.  Well - maybe not the best and brightest idea I've had over the last few weeks.  The first class put a whipping on me, but the second sent me over the edge.  Kimberly had us flowing so hard, I was like "girl what is your problem?"  [No I didn't say it, but I really thought it].  How can I ride the breath when I'm trying to catch my breath.  I was so tired by the time we got to inversions that I was like "headstand, who?"  Not today.  I took a really long relaxing pose and as soon as I stood up to leave I felt it.  The agony of the muscles.  I didn't even feel the desire to get my post-yoga sushi meal.  I headed straight home to take a long bath.  I poured almost half of my Aveda Active Oil in the tub, because my body was needing some salvation.  It wasn't long after acquiring the wrinkled fingers that I headed to bed. I picked up a book and before I knew it - the book was reading me. 

Love, Lip Gloss & Namaste. 

Sephora Metallic Bronze Bag Collection

The last thing I need is another makeup bag.  But, I really love the color of these bags.  I've seen them in Sephora every time I go, but I still have not picked them up yet.  The last thing I need is another makeup bag.  I was considering them for my new fall makeup, plus they will come along wonderfully for a few trips I have planned.  This is the first time that I've thought of changing my makeup bags with the season.  Metallics are everywhere for fall and why shouldn't they be on my bag.  I love the medium bag and the small clutch can be used at night for a quick and relaxed dinner. 

Do any of you ladies change your makeup bag with the season?  I'm curious.  Let me know in the comments.

The Beauty of Health

I'm sitting here watching the document Crazy Sexy Cancer on the Discovery Health Channel.  Kris' documentary is moving and powerful.  Her writing touched me in more ways than I could have imagined.  I'm thankful for the health that I have been given.  I think it is so courageous of all these gorgeous women to open up about their struggle on camera for the entire world to see.  We are days into National Breast Cancer month, but cancer touches us all.  I am thankful for these women, all beautiful, fabulous, and full of strength.  These are truly women of beauty.  If you haven't picked up the book, Crazy Sexy Cancer, do so and as you do, be thankful for all that is beautiful about you- inside and out.  Own Your Pretty.  I may not like my thighs and I'm slathering cellulite cream day and night, but I'm grateful for the beauty of health.

I will be updating my list of pink products throughout the month.  So please keep reading for more products. 

Love, Lip Gloss & Namaste.

Vitalize Me: Vaseline Vitalizing Gel Body Oil

It still feels like summer although it's October.  I spent Sunday with books, a backlog of magazines, cooking, football and going through new products.  I am in love with Vaseline's Vitalizing Gel Body Oil right now.  Why?  It's the first gel oil that is not so thick that I have to shake the bottle.  It flows easily and smells just like cocoa butter.  I wish this was out in the summer because I could have mixed it with some shimmer powder.  But since it's still feels like summer, I applied some to my legs this morning.  Vaseline is doing an "upgrade" and it's evident in their new commercial.   So while I took my normal Sunday afternoon bath, it was after applying the gel that I did my goofy "I love me" dance in the bathroom while singing my new favorite song.  Ingrid's music has been featured on Grey's Anatomy (some of the best soundtracks available), but it's the song, the Way I Am, from the Old Navy Commercial that's calling my name.  She will be doing a concert this month and I can't wait to attend.

One of my friends told me since I love to stay home and just be - that I should give the venue a proper name.  I had explained my withdrawal of QVC's Saturday Night Beauty and how I still miss it.  Club Julia is what my time at home will be called, so if you see it in future posts you will understand.  Vaseline Body Oil, welcome to the club.

Have a happy Monday.

Pretty Reading: Second Honeymoon by Joanne Trollope

I remember when I saw the cover of Second Honeymoon it made me want to pick it up.  It's amazing how powerful a cover can be.  I finished this book awhile ago, but I'm just writing my review.  A short premise for the book is what happens when all the children leave their mother's house and the mother is left to feel as though her life no longer exists.  It's evident that the husband, Russell is eager to have his wife Edie back after years of raising children, but Edie does not have those feelings.  She wants the house to be full again with her kids.  I don't have kids, but I do believe that this happens to most parents.  As with all great plans, once Edie is given a full house she realizes that having a full house is not exactly how she envisioned it would be.  Joanne Trollope does a wonderful job of giving all the characters a unique and interesting voice and maintaining a cohesive story line.  In the end, Edie realized that letting go does not take away her ability to mother, it enriches her ability to love.  Thank you all for reading with me.

The next selection is No Woman No Cry:  My Life with Bob Marley by Rita Marley.  It will be interesting to hear Rita's account of life with the famous musician.

Beauty News Friday

I hope everyone has a lovely weekend.  Here's the latest round up in beauty news.

• Chloe's new scent will be represented by Chloe Sevigny, Clemency Poesy and Anja Rubik.
• Goyard, the proprietor of luxury luggage goods, has teamed up with Gucci Westman (Lancome Artistic Director) on a special order makeup cass.  The cases are retailing for $18,000 and will go on sale Nov. 1.  In the US it will be sold exclusively at Bergdorf Goodman.
• Space NK plans to build three more stores in the U.S.  One in Short Hills Mall in New Jersey, Columbus Avenue and Harwood Court in Scarsdale, NY.
• By Terry will introduce its VIP Expert line later this month.  It will have Touch Expert concealer, four skin care items, and an eight unit lip gloss collection called Lip Expert.
• Natura Bisse, (the Diamond Extreme Cream) of which I am in love with, has just launched Glyco Extreme Peel and Diamond Magnetic. 
• Gumps will unveil a new collection of candles and home fragrances under their private label.  I will be having a few of their candles.  It's mandatory for my home.
• Nexxus has named Kevin Mancuso as creative director. 
• Mode Cosmetics is moving into skincare next year.
• Dermalogica has a new Men's Shave Collection.
• Sonia Kashuk will introduce Sheer Magic Mineral Face Palette available at Target. 

Au Revoir and Besos

Pretty Reading: Eat, Pray, Love

I remember when I first read Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert.  I devoured each and every single word of this book.  It came out at a time when I was re-evaluating my life.  I had just started my blog and yoga.  This book helped the girl in me who was feeling lost.  I have since read it three times.  So many people enjoyed it as much as I did.   You will laugh, cry, laugh louder and longer, but mostly you will feast on Elizabeth's every word. 

I'm so pleased that she is going to be on Oprah tomorrow - October 5.  Set your DVRs, Tivos, and VCRs (if you still have one.) 

If you haven't read this book - go get it now, read it, and enjoy.  I'm going to watch the episode while eating my new favorite dish and drinking a glass of wine. 

Bon Appetit.

Spanx Discount

For all purchases made at Spanx from October 1-31, 2007, with the unique code WASHINGTON, you will receive 25% off your order, and for each order you place, Spanx will donate $5 back to the Junior League of Washington and its literacy focused programs. 

This is a great opportunity to try SPANX for the first time or stock up for holiday party wardrobe solutions and gift giving.  Spanx, the company that invented Footless Body-Shaping Pantyhose, offers more than 100 products to slim you down, shape you up, and help look fabulous in your clothes!