What Did I Buy?

In this week's episode of Lex's luxurious beauty buys, I throw that phrase around loosely, I share with you what I bought at the last Sephora's VIB sale:

This beauty sponge has been making its way around the beauty blog blocks and I was curious. But would this $19.95 sponge really make a difference in the way foundation lays on my skin? I've even seen this used on video tutorials to apply foundation and concealer with convincing accolades. Okay, I was convinced. I was going to buy this but only on sale.

I've tried this damp to stipple my tinted moisturizer,creamy compact foundation and the pointed tip is convenient to blend concealer under my eyes and at the corners. It did make my makeup look natural and not look like it was just sitting on my skin - it does blend nicely. I also like that it's soft to the touch. However, it will remain stained by your foundation and concealers, no matter how much you try to clean it. I use the cheaper alternate - baby shampoo. It was also recommended by a sales associate is to try a very light drop of dish washing liquid to remove any lingering grease. I'm not exactly sure just how long this will last but I probably won't replace it because of it's price tag.

So do you need this? It's really up to you. If you like using your foundation brush or inexpensive sponge version - stick with that. I am trying this out of pure curiosity. It's not an entirely big loss - I do like the color pink!

em michelle phan: Arched Defining Brow Liners

I have a confession to make - I have never watched a Michelle Phan makeup tutorial on her YouTube channel, up until recently. And if you are a blogger and into makeup, you have heard of her. If not then you must have waken up under a rock...a very big, heavy rock. She was innovative early in her tutorial videos by adopting a voice over format. It's a very documentary like feel. As a former art student, she approaches makeup application like art work. And anyone that mimics their tutorials like the awesome PBS Bob Ross instructional show, is extra cool in my book. She was named a video makeup artist by Lancome and has recently launcher her own cosmetics line, EM Michelle Phan.

I am a very, very lucky girl to have received an invitation to try out some of her products.

Arched Defining Brow Liners:

There are five shades to choose from: ash blonde, medium brown, caramel, brunette and black. Since I wasn't sure just how dark the black pencil was I opted for both the brunette and black pencils. I like that these are self sharpening and there's a spoolie on the other end for blending.

Brunette has a bit of red in it and black is not what you think. It's a dark neutral brown that has a bit of grey in it.

Here's a very naked eye with Brunette:

This is a great shade for the days where I don't want to do a heavily shaded lid or on the weekends when I'm running errands with my daughter and I just want to keep my makeup super simple.

I have been blending the two shades together and I'm loving the results:

I love that it's not too dark and it looks like it could be my actual brows if I were blessed with naturally dark and full eye brows! 

For the past twenty years, I've been a shadow and slanted brush kind of girl. In fact, it would take me less than five minutes to do both brows. Then again, that's on a good day. I actually shunned all pencils, only using to fill sparse sections of my arches. The pencils I have used are often waxy and weren't that great. I love the formula of this pencil, just enough creaminess to go on easily but still sturdy to be long lasting and it blends like a dream with the spoolie brush. I am very impressed with this product, as I take my brows seriously. 

Yes, I'm that girl that doesn't leave the house without her brows on to go on a four mile run on the weekends. 

On that note, these pencils do not fade even after an intense workout. The irony is I have bangs again and my brows are covered for the most part. Well luckily, I found this pencil to define and darken my brows when my bangs are blown haphazardly on a windy day. 

These pencils retail for $19/USD and can be found online, click here. 

These were sent to me for consideration. 

Makeovers: Not Just for the Jilted....

I've taken a bit of time off, just in case you haven't noticed. Well, a few things have happened - busy workload and a anxious feeling about my status since the sale of half of the company, where I work and fulfilling my duties as my sister's maid of honor for her wedding last weekend.

The problem is the longer I stay away it becomes so easy to slack. And if slacking were a career, I'd be CEO!

So, I'm getting off my lazy butt to just share a few new things I have tried out.

On my birthday, last month, I enlisted the help of NARS makeup artist, Laura, to give me a hot birthday look for my karaoke outing. I also got a chance to visit the NARS boutique in the Lower Pac Heights neighborhood, SF.

Even the outside exterior has a very sleek, minimal look. The window display was sparse but that didn't mean there wasn't an impact on those window shopping in the neighborhood.

The inside of the shop, did not disappoint either. I love this little book collection nestled above the makeshift fireplace.

But let's get back to why you guys are here. The makeover and the amount it took to transform me into a smoky karaoke chanteuse. 

If only my bathroom counter looked like this, well organized and gigantic!

The wonderful makeup artist, Linda talked me into beefing up my brows. Not just darkening but giving me full throttle editorial brows. I was scared but I thought "what the hell, I'm 39 and like Nars says - it's just makeup..."

Here's the result:

I know not that bad but I've been rocking a slim brow for years and years. By the end of the day, I was use to it and really giving thought to getting a prescription for a hair growth treatment from my dermatologist. The dark brow really complimented my strong lined smoky eyes with copper shadows. 

More scenes from the NARS boutique:

My current favorite NARS product - eye paint. I really need to get that review out since it's been about a month and a half of use - ugh, I'm a lazy a**hole I know!

I love how much light comes into this boutique. The placement of the makeup stations are ideal, not for anonymity from the public but at least you'll really see how your makeup looks in natural lighting. 

I can't wait to return to this shop for some holiday shopping, especially since the Guy Bourdain/NARS gifting collection has debuted. 

If you would like to visit the NARS SF boutique in person, here's the address:

NARS COSMETICS BOUTIQUE FILLMORE 
2050 FILLMORE ST. 
SAN FRANCISCO 94115

My makeup was a hit at karaoke that night, my face didn't melt but then again I wasn't dancing with 500 other people in a packed club, thankfully. 

After trying a different brow from what I was use to, I start to think more about my looks and what else I could improve. I think it's because I'm 39 now and really not that far from 40 but don't worry, I'm not looking into medical procedures (well, never say never....)

I really started thinking more and more about my hair and what I wanted to do next. Go back to light brown/dark blonde highlights? No, that's an upkeep expense I can't keep up with. Cut into a cute choppy LOB that a lot of off duty supermodels have been rocking? No, I took way too long growing it this long and plus I'm not 5'10, 105 lbs and 23 yrs. old. Just kidding...no judgments here...just lacking courage. 

What else could I do? Well, I've been thinking about a look that I really loved and was my trademark before my daughter was born - bangs.Yes, it is upkeep but it would just be a few bucks and my hair stylist's salon is about 5-7 minutes walking distance from my office. 

I had the longest time debating and probable exhausted everyone with their thoughts, my husband especially. I had to take the advice I given to others when they want to change their hair, "It's just hair, it'll grow back"

Yeah it'll grow back, albeit a long year or two, but I'll just give my bitching and moaning to myself when I'm in the awkward pinning my bangs back, grow-out phase. 

Behold my bangs and the man who keeps my hair in check for the past twelve years, Melvin Burns.

Isn't he adorable? If you're in San Francisco and need to find a new stylist near your office in the Financial District, please, PLEASE check out: http://www.ecrusalon.com/

And here I am working it and upholding my Maid of Honor duties for my sister's wedding, last week:

I think I made the right decision. And you can't tell but my brows are dark and full under my fringe.

Up next, my the current skincare regime that's changing my skin for the better. 

MAC/ANTONIO LOPEZ: Why Didn't This Collaboration Happen Sooner?

Cosmetic brand giant, MAC recently launched another genius collaboration. This one celebrates the decadent, hedonistic, sensual, disco '70's.

This collection features art work by the legendary fashion illustrator from that era,

Antonio Lopez:

courtesy of nytimes.com 

Here he is with a very young (Uncle) Karl Lagerfeld and one of the iconic faces he discovered and introduced to the fashion world: Jerry Hall. He illustrated what I pictured high fashion glamour to be in NYC and Internationally in the late 1970's. His women were strong, audacious and the least likely to be labeled as a wall flower.

The window display at the MAC boutique I visited today on Fillmore St, SF displays some of his images:

The display was pretty scarce as it debuted a week ago today and I was a little late to the party - as usual. But I did manage to pick up one eye shadow palette.

6 eyes/Violet:

Yes, I did buy this to have a piece of his glamorous art work. But I also bought this for the very pretty charcoal, taupe shimmer on the bottom row, graphic style.

I'm surprised that there's only one shade that is violet in a palette titled Violet but I'm willing to overlook that. I'm pleased that all the shades except for carbon are limited edition.

Here's a swatch of the lineup on my arm:

Aside from carbon, it does take some work for these shadows to show up on my arm. I have a feeling that I'll be packing layers of these shadows on my lids. It's pretty soft to the touch.

Lithe Spirits/Envisioning Pinks (s - satin finish)
Violet Impact/Showgirl/Graphic Style (vxp - not sure what finish that is)
Carbon (m - matte)

Sorry, I am only featuring the palette I purchased but if you can still find these at your local department stores, that carry MAC, or at a boutique or PRO store, do check it out.

There are a total of three eye shadow palettes, three lip palettes, two face/cheek palettes, travel blush/bronzer brush in a vinyl pouch with illustration, a makeup pouch and a two mirror compact. Each palette features original art work.

I'll feature another post when I use the shadows.

This was purchased by yours truly at my local Nordstrom store.
6 eyes/Violet palette - $43.50 (USD 5.3g/0.19 US oz)

For a better look at this collection, peep this. I love that video featured!

Gabi's Mom - Last Week on Lil'Miss

I wanted to try something different two weeks ago when posting my usual weekly beauty piece for www.missomnimedia.com. My daughter just started elementary school and honestly, lipstick was the last thing on my mine, okay the second to the last thing, nevertheless I had other thought running through my head.

Gabriela, at age 2

Like, how fast time flies. This really is true when you have a child. Just when I got comfy with all the preschool parent friends I made in just under three years, like my daughter, I have to make new friends all over again. And I have to get use being called, "Gabi's mom"

How I got use to being nameless, click here.

Date Night = BOOZE REVIEWS

To celebrate Labor Day weekend right, Mr. Lex and I had a date night.

It's been too long to even remember the last time we had a grown-up, get fancy, date night!

I even spent an extra 10-15 minutes on the trifecta of beautifying: highlighting, contouring and sculpting my face.

I apologize for crappy dusk lighting, I will say that my lip color is my latest lip obsession - UD Revolution lipstick, Jilted with 24/7 Glide-On Lip Pencil, Venom. Yes, review will be coming soon via Miss Omni Media.

We had a lovely meal at the Burritt Room + Tavern in Charlie Palmer's Mystic Hotel, Union Square, SF. It was a languid meal due to a slow kitchen. This wasn't necessarily a deal breaker since our server was delightful, attentive and treated us to a free dessert for waiting patiently.

But the real reason why we weren't too pissed and I wasn't giving the servers and bus boys the business (and the reason why you guys tune into these reviews) were our cocktails:

I had to choose my spirit wisely and I can never go wrong with whisky.

First drink:
Mark Twain

Ingredients:
scotch whisky, ginger honey, lemon and angostura bitters.

And a very proper, delightful and sunny gentleman he was.  According to the menu, this recipe was described by Mr. Twain in a letter to his wife, Olivia from London in January, 1874. If I were Olivia I would have been envious. Why are you telling me about this delicious beverage I cannot taste? Are you trying to piss me off?

This is a very refreshing drink that I could easily drink all day - sunny or on a foggy, cold typical SF evening. The ginger honey keeps the mood comfy and rounds out the citrus edges of this drink. A dash of the angostura bitters gives it a subtle herbaceous hint. This is a great drink for those that fear the word
WHISKY in a cocktail. This is the cocktail I'd easily return for.

Contestant #2
Berlinetta

Ingredients: Bourbon, Cynar, Carpano Antica, Price Blood Orange Bitters

Shit. This is the drink you turn to when you had a hard day or you want to look all classy while you are secretly getting faced.

This had a Negroni feel to due to the Cynar bitter used (an Italian liquer). It's composed of 13 plants and herbs, mainly artichoke and it's very bittersweet. Carpano Antica, which is sweet vermouth and the Blood Orange bitters give a very slight sweet component - again, very slight. The bourbon has nowhere to hide. It's full bodied and heavy but a pleasure to drink. This is a pretty advance drink for the bourbon fans. It leans on the herbal side versus sweet. I'd definitely come back for this bad boy. I'd even make sure I had a rough day so I could really, really appreciate this. I would also probably ask for seconds.

And finally:
Rhuby Red:

Ingredients: Bourbon, Burritt Strawberry cordial, lemon, rhubarb, peychaud foam

Okay one word: SWEET. This should have been the drink I started with not follow up a heavy hitter like the Berlinetta. The combination of lemon and rhubarb gives it a bit of a tart quality. This one is definitely for those that like to dip their toes gingerly in the bourbon cocktails. Peychaud foam is made with Peychaud bitters, a lighter, slightly sweeter version of Agostura. It gave a nice floral scent to this cocktail. If I'm in the mood for something fruity, sweet and safe - I'd order this.

Some other highlights:

CHEESE:

How can something so simple look so elegant and taste so wonderfully delicious? Every time I attempt to serve a cheese tray at a party it just ends up messy - half open cheese with the plastic wrapper halfway off. There's a pile of triscuits or water crackers I tried to arrange in a nonchalant way but it just looks like my daughter just poured a box of crackers right on to the cheese board.

And this butter lettuce salad with BACON:

As you can see the bacon phenomenon isn't ending any time soon and I'm thankful for that - well my jeans aren't. This would be the only way I could get my husband to eat a salad, if only he'd like that buttermilk dressing. Ugh, one step at a time.

The Mister and I both agree that we'd love to return to the Burritt Room + Tavern for drinks and maybe the cheese plate at the bar area. Our entrees were good but we weren't totally wowed. I'm willing to give the kitchen another shot, my husband, not so much.

That's okay it just means we get to discover another restaurant on our next date night and I get to spend an extra 15 minutes getting all dolled up again!

I Reminisce Over a Spell or Shall I Say Think Back....Miss Omni Media, Week of 8/21

I came across a shade that immediately made me feel like I was 19 years old and it's 1993. And then I thought, Oh Sh*t, that's TWENTY years ago!

To make me feel even older, I came across what's hot for Fall on one of the online shopping websites I subscribe to:

A lot of plaid to pay tribute to times of grunge-lore. I did wear a motorcycle jacket almost daily and I did covet a pair of ankle boots - not Dr. Martens but they were kickass Monkey boots that I loved dearly. I have been longing for a pair of Docs and since I'm an adult, a wife and a mother, I think I deserve them. I'd look even more kickass than usual.

For my current lipstick obsession and a walk down my memory lane, click here.

And for you Hip Hop Historians, my subject title is from the song, They Reminisce Over You by Pete Rock and CL Smooth.

Previously on Miss Omni Media...Week of August 14

NARS has really been blowing up with product launches every month this summer...it's reminding me of another beauty company. It begins with a M and ends with a C...give up? Well, I can't help you then if you're not paying attention! 

I will say I'm loving this new item:

Curious? Need to know more? Check out the full story. 

It makes me feel like this:

I said FEEL, not look! I'm not delusional.

Stepping it Up!

I've been one busy mama. I work a full eight hour day assisting three different departments and when I get home I assist one demanding diva, my five year old daughter and oh yeah, occasionally my husband. Okay, I keed - my daughter isn't demanding, well not all the time and I treasure the moments I get in the door, kick off my shoes and spend time with my family.

Also, I entered a new dimension...elementary school. My daughter started Kindergarten today - how did this all happen? I look at new moms with there adorable newborns and I think that was me yesterday, yeah yesterday like five years ago.

I'll be exploring this topic more coming soon - I just really wanted to explain my side of the story on why I've been M.I.A. in the blog world lately - as in this blog world. I've been posting regularly on another online magazine and when it comes time to pay attention to my site, I've been acting like one bad bitchy neglecting mother!

Good news: I actually have new product to share with you guys!

SHOES...Yes, you read that correctly. The one item I wanted to review that's near and dear to my heart next to eye shadows and lipsticks - shoes. A good reason why I can't report on shoes regularly - they are hella expensive or they can be, especially the ones I wish I can prance around in.

What I really craved in my wardrobe was a wedge pump that was fancy enough to hold it's own while paired with cropped trousers and pencil skirts while being able to hang out with my boyfriend, straight leg and skinny jeans.

I allowed myself to purchase just one item from the Nordstrom Anniversary sale

I went with these:

Coach Emma Pump.

Peep toe was not a pre-requisite, in fact I wanted a closed toe. But I am a sucker for details, especially bows. How could I resist this?

It stands at 3 1/4", it's patent leather upper/leather lining and rubber sole. It's a perfect height for work and basically getting around in. 

I did the unthinkable, I walked around in these from my car, to train station, to office. It's about a seven minute walk to my office from the train station. I survived. It wasn't like walking in a sherpa lined Ugg slipper but it didn't kill me either. In fact, I walked around in these and never had to change into flats. I took a break the next day by wearing flats and my feet were not hurting. I proceeded with the break in process again the day after. 

Yes, it did rub around my feet - they aren't the most narrow, dainty feet. If I could survive in these shoes so can you. Unless your feet are wider than mine. I didn't get any blisters but I also don't wear these on consecutive days just so my bunion doesn't yell at me. These are true to size (I got these in a 9 and I can sometimes wear a 8 1/2 depending on designer). Withing two weeks, they are broken in. The one annoying thing you have to factor - there's a bit of a squeaky noise when I walk due to the patent leather. I'll get over it but it'll probably drive my cubicle neighbors crazy. 

I bought these for $124.99/USD during the sale and they are now retailing at $188/USD

I didn't stop there, I bought another. Ugh, I know I am weak. But how cute are these kicks:

Adidas Dragon Sneaker for girls. 

My daughter has to look good for school, right? The problem was I showed these to her too soon. She begged us daily to wear these. When I purchased these for her, school was at least three weeks away. Her dad was good at saying no just to preserve the clean look of these shoes. White? What was I thinking? But I am also a girl that loves shoes how could I say no? 

I allowed her to wear them around at preschool and also around when we went out on the weekends. They did get a bit dirty but they are not as bad as me wearing white shoes. I would have spilled coffee within the first five minutes of wear time. 

It has a removable insole, textile and synthetic upper/textile lining/EVA sole.

I bought these on sale for $36.99 and it is now regularly priced at $53.95/USD. These run a bit big. My daughter is currently a size 12 and I got her a 12.5. She's got substantial space but I know that is fleeting since she shoots about a 1/4 of an inch each month. 

My daughter and I are very pleased with our shoes. Seriously though, she takes after me - no surprises here, well just in cost savings. 

These shoes were purchased by yours truly at Nordstrom. 

Last Week on MissOmniMedia...Imaginary Authors

Last week on MISS, I spotlight indie perfume line, Imaginary Authors that I discovered at Renegade Craft Fair, SF while supporting my husband's booth, 265 Design.

It's no surprise that I am a huge fan of lesser known, independent fragrances not found in Sephora, Ulta or other mainstream department stores. This collection features complex fragrance profiles and a very interesting concept.

For more info please read: Imaginary Authors

Kate Somerville and My Temperamental Moody Skin...

The following skin care products were sent to me for review by the lovely and generous folks at Kate Somerville.

Last month I tested out KS Goat Milk body lotion, (loved!) and now a month later I am back to report on two items I used religiously for a month.

I usually bail on a face product as soon as I get some type of undesirable reaction but I really wanted to stick it out with these two products, well if I got really bad acne then I would have stopped. I'm not a sadist for beauty. Even I have my limits when it comes to beauty products!

I am seriously in love with this serum:

Key ingredients include:
A blend of three advanced peptides diminishes the look of fine lines and wrinkles while marine algae and hyaluronic acid complex provide immediate and long-term moisturization and restores the skin's natural capacity to retain moisture.

Benefits:
Oil-free formula which is compatible with virtually all skin types
Aside from reducing fine lines, replenishing moisture in the skin, it also increases luminosity to the complexion.

Clinical results:
In just two weeks - 77% of women showed improved elasticity and firmness.
In just four weeks - 91% of women showed a significant increase in moisture, 77% of women said their skin's overall appearance was improved and healthier looking.

My thoughts:
At 38 years old, I don't have a whole lot of wrinkles to worry about. I worry about preventing any wrinkles that may occur in the near future. I was interested in the skin brightening properties. I have some discoloration from dryness causes by eczema. I will say that the discoloration is a bit lighter, although it's not completely gone but it is noticeably lighter. It's unscented and absorbs quickly. Also, it has helped my skin stay relatively smooth. It also works well underneath my CeraVe moisturizer. I also like the window on the side of this bottle so you can keep track of how much product you still have left. The recommended use is two pumps of serum but you can get by with just one pump or a pump and a half. I'm really trying to get by with just one pump to make this bottle last. Use morning and night.

The next moisturizer I tested:
Deep Tissue Repair Cream with Peptide K8

Key ingredients include:

Advanced Ceramide-infused Peptide is formulated to diminish the visible depth and density of wrinkles.

An Advanced Moisture Complex helps to prevent water loss and keeps skin more evenly balanced with humectants and conditioners.

Babassu and Hemp Seeds are intended to increase the appearance of firmness.

Olisopeptide is intended to increase the appearance of firmness.

Benefits:

Minimizes the appearances of fine lines and wrinkles.

Improves the look of skin's texture and tone creating supple, younger looking skin. 

Clinical Results (based on an independent clinical study):

Clinically proven to minimize the appearance of fine lines  and wrinkles.

Clinically proven to have a visibly smoothing effect to the skin.

Significantly improves moisturization of the skin after 4 weeks.

Clinically shown to reduce skin redness

My results:

I had to initially get over the pineapple scent of this moisturizer because I'm use to unscented moisturizers - a warning to sensitive noses. But it does fade after awhile. Another thing I had to get use to was the (air-less pump) push down dispenser. I normally like a regular pump or scooping with clean fingers. When you push down a considerable amount of product comes out. Also there's no window on the side of this jar so you don't know when you are running out. I found out when I pushed down on the dispenser and nothing came out...I'd say a good 30 days later. This is a thicker cream and takes a bit longer to absorb. It did keep my skin moisturized nicely, so it did improve the moisture level of my usually dry skin. 

My only problem with this moisturizer is that there's no window on the side of this container so you can't keep track of how much product you have left. There's a lot of cream that comes out of the pump. The CytoCell Serum lasted longer than this moisturizer, as a matter of fact I still have some leftover. 

If I had to choose which product I would go back and purchase another bottle of it would definitely be the CytoCell P299. It went on so easily, it's unscented, it didn't clog my pores or disrupt my sensitive eczema prone skin and it even helped lighten discoloration caused by years of thickened skin because of my eczema. I did experience slight dryness and skin thickening on the side of my forehead because I stopped using my heavy steroid ointment for my skin situation. I wanted to see if this moisturizing combo could be so great that I would no longer need this ointment. I was doing well about two weeks into my new routine until I noticed my forehead was itchy and I felt the dry patches coming back. The great news, I had to apply this ointment the sides of my face - underneath my outer cheekbones, my chin, my nose and my forehead. And now I only apply to part of my forehead that's dry.

I began to fear the end of my bottle that I was going to plan my next trip to Neiman Marcus to put a bottle on my account. Luckily I found this on ebay for a very, VERY good price.

Phew...excuse me as I wipe the sweat off of my smooth forehead!

CytoCell CytoCell P299 Oil Free Anti-Wrinkle Serum
1 fl oz $95/USD

Deep Tissue Repair Cream with Peptide K8
1 fl oz $150/USD

Available at www.katesomerville.com

And all fine stores that feature the Kate Somerville collection.

From Miss Omni Media...NARS Fall 2013

Once again the good folks at NARS sent me a few beauty loot items from the Fall 2013 to review. And it did not disappoint. If anything, it truly piqued my curiosity. I am hoping to pick up a few more of the single pan eye shadows. 

Here are my picks.

For the full article, click here. 

Beauty Bash: Nordstrom Style

If you didn't know this already or hiding underneath a rock hiding with your credit cards only to resurface after August 5th, then you know that their humongous Anniversary sale is happening as I type. Well what you may not know is that Nordstrom is also hosting beauty events.

At selected Bay Area Nordstrom locations - customers will be treated to a complimentary blow-out bar, nail bar, facial bar, lash bar, and brow bar, learn the latest beauty tips and tricks from their favorite brands, and grab an exclusive goodie bar. What a great way to get a little freshen up before your date night or meet with your girlfriends, sisters, mothers, etc!

Happy Hour: Friday, July 19^th from 5-8 pm!

·         Nordstrom Hillsdale

·         Nordstrom Walnut Creek

·         Nordstrom Palo Alto

·         Nordstrom Valley Fair

That's not all...

Early Access: Saturday, July 20 starting at 9am!

Customers will get the chance to experience complimentary makeup touch-ups, learn the latest beauty tips and tricks, and grab an exclusive Anniversary Sale goodie bag – as well as an opportunity to shop their favorite beauty brands before the store opens that day.

At these locations:

·         Nordstrom Stonestown

·         Nordstrom Stoneridge

A Sephora Exclusive Coming Soon....

Pop! Contour! Sculpt!

From professional makeup artists to the bathroom counter makeup artist in us all, NARS graces us with two new Sephora exclusive blush palettes that combine three shades to sculpt, contour and highlight.These palettes are perfect for completing your look or give you the chance to experiment. Apply separately or swirl colors together to make your own perfect shade.

Soulshine:
(l to r)
peachy pink with gold shimmer
sheer golden apricot
soft rose tone with golden shimmer

Realm of the Senses:
(l to r)
flirty sheer peach
shimmering bronzed rose
sparkling gold sand

Both palettes: $41/USD
Available on at Sephora beginning August 1st.

I know I'll be stalking my nearest Sephora just so I can swatch these lovelies - I got my eye especially on Realm of the Senses. I bet it also looks fabulous on your eyes.

Sorry , I can't but help but wonder if this is named after the very 70's art-house erotic Japanese film of the same name.

Well, I heard of this film...no really....

Slather on Some Goat Milk!

***DISCLAIMER: the following product was sent to me by the PR department at Kate Somerville for consideration****

Planning on exposing some skin this summer? You know as much as I do, that it's just not sexy exposing ashy skin. That's why I am so happy I discovered goat milk lotion.

Yes, that's right GOAT MILK lotion.

No, I'm not suggesting throwing a cup of goat milk into your moisturizer. I wanted to share with you a new discovery that I've added to my after shower routine.

Kate Somerville's Goat Milk Body Lotion

It's believed that ancient Egyptians used rich goat milk to soften their skin. Aside from making a delicious goat cheese, goat milk has a very close pH to our own skin providing essential hydration. This lotion contains natural coconut and aloe to calm even the most sensitive skin. Natural occurring lactose enzymes  gently exfoliates the skin.

I love this lotion because it feels richer than my usual CeraVe lotion but it absorbs just as quick. It's also unscented so those sensitive to strong scents can breathe easy. I've been using this for a week now and I have noticed my arms and legs are a bit softer. The areas of my back, due to eczema patches, still need extra attention courtesy of my prescribed ointment but they aren't inflamed or itchy when using this lotion. If anything, the dry patches are smoothing out. This combined with my prescribed ointments makes a powerful scaly skin busting duo!

Use after bathing and at night or when you need extra moisture. I try to use this mostly in the morning as it is a bit costly - $32/USD - 150mls.

I am very pleased with the results so far and the next time I splurge on a fantastic body lotion with great moisturizing properties, I am rushing to my nearest Nordstrom or Sephora store to pick up a tube of this wonder stuff!

About Kate:
Kate Somerville is the creator and director of the renowned medi-skin clinic in Los Angeles, CA. She has dedicated her life to giving her A-list celebrity clients flawless faces. Her reputation proceeds her due to her solutions-based strategy to glowing skin. Kate has partnered with top dermatologists and plastic surgeons early in her career. By integrating skincare with medicine, Kate has helped changed the spa industry - treating the skin in a more medi-spa style with timely results. Also, she's suffered with eczema in her youth - that alone speaks volumes to me!

Kate Somerville Goat Milk is available at all stores that carry the Kate Somerville brand.

For more info, click here.

Booze Review: Derby at the Comstock Saloon

I met up with my sister and our girlfriends last weekend. It's great to stop, take a breather from my family and recharge. And how? With loud girlfriend gabbing about lipstick, breakups and food over rounds of cocktails.

Before our Chinese food dinner, a few of us met at one of my favorite restaurant/bars:

The Comstock Saloon.

This place occupies a historic space that served as a watering hole to San Franciscans since 1907, so you know you'll get "old-timey" style cocktails. Get out your elbow patched cardigans, reading spectacles, fancy polonaise and pull up a stool, especially for Happy Hour on Saturdays!

This is what I drank:

The Derby

There are two different versions of this cocktail - a sweet gin based and the one above, whiskey/rye/bourbon based (of course!).
The whiskey based also can come in two different styles - Manhattan style (but with Benedictine liqueur) and the other - slightly sour. So there are a total of three different versions of this cocktail - choose based on your mood.

I had the latter. It contains rye, orange liqueur, sweet vermouth, lime juice and garnished with a slightly crushed mint. The bartender banged it slightly with an open palm - this releases the oils making the cocktail smell wonderful while adding a subtle mint flavor.

I could have easily drank another not just because the citrus balanced out the fullness of the rye but it was nicely priced at $6. This is a lovely whiskey/rye cocktail for all whiskey lovers and can also be enjoyed by those just discovering the beauty of whiskey.

Also, I would have loved to see the bartender measure his rye pours in these awesome boot cocktail jiggers.

ORANGE You glad I'm Back?

Lame...SO Lame...I know.

This is my attempt at getting off my lazy ass to share a recent review I posted at MissOmniMedia:

MAC released a small capsule collection based on the magical shade, orange. Yes, just in time for the summer! This collection consists of one shadow palette, some limited edition lipsticks, glosses, blushes and nail varnish.

To see my picks, click here.

I do love this ad but this model reminds me of someone.

Oh I know:

Lorene Yarnell of the famed 70's mime duo, Shields and Yarnell.
I think it's just the hair...judge for yourself:

Beauty Blush Hour Event at Nordstrom SF

It's almost midnight, I'm running around packing at the last minute for a much needed little family getaway. Of course being the cosmetic obsessed psycho that I am I still made time for a beauty event. 

I went to Nordstrom's Beauty Blush Hour event at the SF Centre. 

It was sequestered in a private room near their spa. The vibe was very feminine complete with pink table cloths, pretty table settings, cute finger foods/cupcakes and of course booze:

No, I didn't drink both bottles just the one right in front of the cute turquoise cosmetic bag you receive when you enter the party. Yes, it's filled with little samples ranging from fragrance samples to nail polish remover pads. 

Each table was a makeup or skincare station.The lineup was modest but just as impressive:

MAC, Lancome, Smashbox, Laura Mercier and....

Kate Somerville: 

I was helped by a hilarious and gracious line specialist, Lindsay. She told me that you can use one of these large tan towels on both your body and face. I love that you don't need a separate cloth for separate areas of   your body. I can't wait to try this and I'll be sure to personally contact Lindsay for her recommendations. Kate Somerville is a line I'm still discovering but I do have great interest in. 

Bobbi Brown:

Sea Pearls Collection - unfortunately, I didn't get a lot of info on this collection. But it's self-explanatory - it's for Summer. 

Chanel:

This one really caught my attention - this is their Nordstrom exclusive collection. Le Jour de Chanel, a day serum with salicylic acid to tighten pores while exfoliating, La Nuit de Chanel, a moisturizer that hydrates with hyaluronic acid and Le Weekend de Chanel, a glycolic acid treatment that gently exfoliates your complexion. I believe this one is to be used no more than twice a week, like on the weekends. I may have to pick up one of these bottles - I love the Chanel skincare line. 

Whish:

A body care line created by Aimee Werner. More on this soon, however, I do adore her body scrub and body butter. I did get a few samples that I intend on posting a review. I did get a chance to meet Aimee, a very personable, lovely and humble lady. Her body butter is very promising as she gave me a little hand massage with the clean scented Pomegranate body butter. So luxurious and modestly priced at $24/5 oz.

Also, after the cocktail hour you are then ushered downstairs to check out the counters and for informal beauty touch-ups that were complimentary. I always enjoy their events.

If you are in town, please contact Nordstrom at the SF Centre to get tickets to attend the Beauty Trend Show Saturday, June 1st. It is an early event - 8:30 AM, I believe but well worth it. There's tons of giveaways through out the runway show and you can make an appointment to try out the new beauty loot at your favorite counter! 

Yes, I'm still bummed to miss this Trend Show but I wouldn't trade it for some much needed family time while watching my daughter smile and laugh at Disneyworld! 

Attention SF Beauty Fans!

Do like makeup, booze and Nordstrom? Then keep reading...

It's that time of that year again - Beauty Trend Show! I attended last year and had so much fun and snagged an awesome amount of swag. Unfortunately, I'll miss this year's event but I will be attending the Beauty Blush Hour and courtesy of Nordstrom, your's truly is invited, along with other lucky bloggers, as a guest. Again, I'm really bummed that I'll miss the Beauty Trend Show but hey, I'll be at Disneyworld with my Princess loving daughter...I think that's a fair trade-off. Maybe we'll swing by the Bippity Boppity Boutique!

If you never attended the Trend Show, please go. It's early...way early but you are fed cupcakes and coffee. You'll be buzzing and if that doesn't help the fashion show and screaming women in the audience winning free stuff like they're on the Oprah show should help! Also, you can make an appointment for a makeover at your favorite counter.

WHAT: Beauty Blush Hour (Invite Below)

ABOUT: Happy Hour hosting in an exclusive private space at Nordstrom San Francisco Centre where fashionistas and glamour gals are invited to have cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, listen to a hot local DJ, take photos in our photo booth, and visit “play stations” to experiment and chat all things beauty with some of our best cosmetic brands and beauty reps.

DATE:  Thursday, May 30

TIME: 6pm-9pm (doors open at 5:30pm)

COST: Tickets are $20 and redeemable toward your beauty purchase for the day

WHAT: Beauty Trend Show

ABOUT: Cosmetics runway show with models, a special beauty host and DJ, as well as video segments highlighting beauty trends for spring as commented by our Nordstrom Beauty Director and beauty experts. Fashionistas and glamour gals are invited to attend the show in the morning, get samples, and hop unto the cosmetics floor to enjoy makeup appointments and try out and buy the products they learned about at the show

DATE: Saturday, June 1

TIME: 8am-10am (doors open at 8:30am) with cosmetic appointments the rest of the day

COST: Tickets are $20 and redeemable toward your beauty purchase for the day.

SPECIAL NOTE: Please be sure to book your appointment in advance – they go very quickly!

Still my favorite moment from last year's show: