The Boss of Gloss

Fresh Seaberry

2012-02-29T07:29:00.000-08:00

Fresh Seaberry Restorative Treatment

I’m about as high strung as they come so I gravitate towards anything with words like “calm” and “relieve” – this body cream is designed to do both. I love all of Fresh’s other creams so I decided to try this one too. The words that came to mind when I tried this Monday night were “soothing” and “relaxing” – I’m exhausted from last weekend’s travel to CA and foot surgery 11 days ago so, applying this to my tired limbs and feet last night was heaven. The scent reminds me of lavender and the formula is rich & creamy. This morning my skin looked and felt fresh and hydrated.

Seaberry, like almost all other berries, is a powerful antioxidant – Fresh combined this ingredient with Cranberry oil, jojoba seed oil and all sorts of other good stuff to create a delicious formula that will have you saying “Ahh”…

http://www.fresh.com/bodycare/bodycare-seaberry/seaberry-restorative-body-cream-240ml

Fresh -- L.A.

2012-02-28T09:18:00.000-08:00

Fresh Store L.A. & Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment (Plum)

I popped into the Fresh store at The Grove (awesome outdoor shopping mall) while I was in L.A. over the weekend. I was excited because I love Fresh and have never seen a free standing store before. Of course the décor was chic and “fresh,” the staff were friendly, knowledgeable & helpful, and the space was stocked with all the products I love and some special little pieces – like hand painted glass dishes for your jewelry or to hold your products. My friend bought a gorgeous blue & white round dish. Between the 2 of us we definitely did some damage. I think my favorite purchase was the Sugar Plum Tinted Lip Treatment – it is supremely moisturizing and really stays on well for a balm. The lip treatments all have SPF 15 (love that!) and there are several options as far as the “tint” you choose. The main ingredient is sugar which naturally seals in moisture – really the “sealing” this treatment does is pretty phenomenal. You can build or layer the gloss for a deeper or darker tint or apply lightly to keep it sheer. It looks very natural on and gives your whole face a nice little boost!

http://www.fresh.com/makeup/lip-care/sugar-plum

Here are a couple pics I snapped of the store:

Confessions of a Shopaholic

2012-02-27T07:29:00.000-08:00

I’m back & boy is that a looong way to fly for 48 hours but, it was so worth it. I’ve got some really exciting new products to share with you and a fun L.A. Fresh store review but… until I get my act together, (I didn’t get home until after midnight) here are my non-cosmetic purchases from the trip. Just a little Monday morning eye candy! My favorite place to shop in L.A. is Fred Segal. It’s so cute, easy to get in and out quickly & the staff is always super friendly & helpful. I always find something!

http://www.fredsegal.com/v2/FredSegal.html

Here are links to where you can find each item online:

http://www.shopbop.com/signature-python-print-blouse-equipment/vp/v=1/845524441933570.htm?folderID=2534374302168584&fm=browse-brand-shopbysize-viewall&colorId=11769

http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/Alexis-Bittar/Jewelry-and-Accessories/Jewelry/shop/_/N-1z12vfaZ52flr0?Nao=0

http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446475900&afsrc=1&site_refer=GGLBASE001&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=0874570012851

Holla from the Hills of Hollywood :)

2012-02-23T06:38:00.000-08:00

Heading to sunny L.A. …

Tomorrow I’m heading to one of my favorite cities EVER to meet up with my hubby, who’s on a business trip, & to spend some time dining, shopping and visiting with my BFF and some of my oldest & dearest friends.

Hopefully my shopping will be successful and I’ll return with some goodies to share with you! One item that’s definitely on my list is a new bronzer. Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend! XXOO

Tanda Zap

2012-02-22T07:40:00.000-08:00

Tanda Zap

This might be described as an “impulse” buy – impulsive, on my part, as in “fix my skin immediately; I’ll do anything!” – The science behind this gadget is that the blue light/heat/vibrating pulsation opens pores and kills pore clogging bacteria, thus resulting in clearer skin with less breakouts. The blue light part of this therapy method is proven so it makes sense that this little fella would work… though I’m not quite seeing results. I think the key is to start using the device at the very first sign of a blemish a couple times a day then the idea is that the blemish itself will never surface. The device is light weight and portable/battery operated. You hold it to the “affected” area of skin in 2 minute intervals (until light/pulsation stops) several times a day until the spot clears. It’s user friendly and dermatologist recommended -- I’m just not really seeing much of a difference a couple weeks in but, I’m willing to keep trying as other consumers give it raving reviews. I’ll get back to you on this one…

http://sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P286001&om_mmc=esv103203-GG&om_kwpur=341502599&ppc_crid=7196529137&sbanner=us_search&esvcid=S1329166213_ADOGOE_AGI1114963_CRE7196529137_TID341502599_RFDd3d3Lmdvb2dsZS5jb20%3d

Deepa Gurnani Headbands

2012-02-21T07:14:00.000-08:00

Deepa Gurnani Studded Headbands

The best headbands ever!! Firm & secure fit that doesn’t budge and never gives you a headache. I wear them multiple ways. I sometimes sport the hippie look and wear it across my forehead but I also love to wear it around my head with a high ponytail. These bands can be dressed up or down and are equally as cute for a day at the office as they are for a night out on the town. They are also perfect for day-to-night looks. You can pick one that’s over the top or elegant and understated, depending on your mood. The elastic never stretches out and the quality of the fabric and embellishments are top notch.

Gurnani is a husband & wife team – each of their pieces is one of a kind and handcrafted. Spotted on the heads of celebs from Taylor Swift to Kourtney Kardashian. Not that either of them is that cool but... you catch my drift. :)

http://www.shopbop.com/studded-headband-deepa-gurnani/vp/v=1/845524441905077.htm?folderID=2534374302163091&fm=browse-brand-shopbysize-viewall&colorId=11782

Good Old Aquaphor

2012-02-16T07:06:00.000-08:00

Aquaphor (My universal solvent)

I’m obsessed with Aquaphor; I literally have it stashed in every drawer in our house. I mean, what does this product not do? Oh, how I love thee… let me count (some of) the ways:

Soothes cracked heals

Nourishes dry cuticles or hands

Majorly speeds up recovery from chemical peels or other similar cosmetic procedures

Functions as lip balm

Helps to tame fly-aways

Banishes skin flakes due to retinol or seasonal issues

Can be used in the place of Neosporin to heal blisters and cuts

Quiets a squeaky chair or cabinet hinge (seriously)

You can even gloss a cheek or brow bone with it

For under $10.00 there is nothing this lube will not do -- I could go on and on. I buy the little baby tubes as a little goes a long way. Dubbed a “healing ointment” – it “soothes, protects, heals, & works wonders” and really, no description I come up with on my own is going to be different than that.

http://www.drugstore.com/aquaphor-aquaphor-baby-to-go-dual-pack/qxp231489?catid=182484&fromsrch=aquaphor

Chantecaille Cleanser

2012-02-15T06:59:00.002-08:00

Chantecaille Rice & Geranium Foaming Cleanser

I’m not one to splurge on expensive facial cleanser but this one is definitely worth it. This rice & geranium formula is extremely gentle (perfect for sensitive skin) yet it does an incredible job of washing away makeup and impurities. It’s also lovely first thing in the morning as it is really refreshing on the skin. The formula contains rice bran which exfoliates (definitely that time of year – out with the old (skin) and in with the new!) and it also contains geranium (a natural antibacterial agent) – who knew? This combo gives your face a one-two punch & leaves you fresh & gorgeous. I will say this formula is probably best suited for those with oily skin as it additionally contains seaweed which regulates sebum production (it really made a difference in how well my makeup lasted throughout the day). It easily lathers up and feels and smells super luxurious. Yummy!

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/chantecaille-rice-and-geranium-foaming-cleanser/3089390?cm_cat=datafeed&cm_ite=chantecaille_rice_and_geranium_foaming_cleanser:294433&cm_pla=skin/body_treatment:women:cleanser&cm_ven=Froogle&mr:referralID=NA&mr:trackingCode=4277BF6E-1968-DF11-9DA0-002219319097

Sidebar (Mikoh Swimwear)

2012-02-14T07:21:00.003-08:00

Mikoh Swimwear

My sweet hubby bought me a gorgeous Mikoh bikini for Valentine’s Day that I have been lusting after for many months… here’s to hoping I can squeeze my a** into it for our anniversary trip in May.

I love how my girlscout cookies arrived the day before I try on the swimsuit. Timing!!

If you’re not familiar with Mikoh – I highly recommend, the quality is amazing and the suits, though tiny, are surprisingly flattering. I'm obsessed with the fringe on the black one I chose.

Thanks Bubby! Love you!!

http://mikohswimwear.com/

And because I'm dreaming of white sand and turquoise water... here's a shot from my October tropical trip to day dream about... How cute would I look sitting on a lounge chair in my new bikini sipping a frozen drink on that beach???!!

Fresh Age Delay Body Cream

2012-02-14T06:58:00.000-08:00

Fresh Sugar Acai Age-Delay Body Cream

This is a decadent body cream that really invigorates and nourishes dry, tired skin. I use it before bed and not only does it smell “fresh” (hence the name) and fabulous but you wake up with the softest, smoothest, healthiest feeling and looking skin. This cream is extremely hydrating, offers anti-oxidant protection and restores skin’s elasticity. Plus, it contains natural alpha-hydroxy acids that gently exfoliate skin.

Perfect for sloughing away all those dead skin cells we all accumulate under layers of heavy winter clothing and months of cool/dry air. We sometimes forget that body exfoliation is just as important as facial exfoliation, especially during the winter months. I’m in love. Buy it for yourself for Valentine’s Day!

XXOO & Happy Valentine’s Day by the way…

http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P199900

By Terry Coral Liquid Blush

2012-02-13T07:21:00.000-08:00

By Terry Rose De Rose Sheer Liquid Blush in Coral Rose

The first day of Spring is technically March 20 but as soon as Feb. hits I shift into Spring mode. Bring on the light self tanner and bronzer… when the seasons shift, it’s usually necessary to make a few minor makeup changes. My most important? Switching from a “cool” tone pink blush to a more “warm” peach/pink/coral blush. I love Terry’s formula b/c it’s error proof and super blendable. It can also be used as a highlighter for brow bones, cheek bones and décolleté. This blush is like velvet and the coral rose color is gorgeous for spring & summer. (See my previous post about the fresh color from 11/15/11).

http://www.byterry.com/make-up/complexion/blush/rose-de-rose-anglais.html#

L’oreal Elnett Satin Hairspray

2012-02-07T08:18:00.000-08:00

L’oreal Elnett Satin Hairspray

I maybe use hairspray 5 times a year but, when I need it, I always use L’oreal Elnett. Elnett has long been considered the gold standard of hairsprays by stylists and has equally as long been a constant presence backstage in the runway world. The matte gold bottle is hilarious and hasn’t changed much since its creation during what had to have been the Studio 54 era. Anyhoo, this product will hold barrel curls or waves perfectly and for hours and hours. It will keep fly-aways at bay and never ever feel hard or stiff. Whether you’ve got a black tie gala, a costume party, or a wedding up-do… this drugstore cheapie is the product for you. After you spray – your hair is still totally brushable. More added umph – it protects against humidity (I can vouch for this as it just got me through a Bahamas wedding with rain) and it adds brilliance and shine while securing hold. I buy the travel size bottle and it lasts me years. No exaggeration.

http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp?pid=280638&catid=183510&aid=338666&aparam=280638

Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil (Shampoo)

2012-02-03T07:10:00.000-08:00

Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil Shampoo

I know, it sounds odd to use an oil based shampoo but, my scalp has been so dry & irritated (prescription shampoo and cortisone providing no relief) that buying this was kind of a last ditch effort as I’m currently shedding scalp skin like a snake. Hot, right? More like hot mess. My hair has also been lacking its usual gloss and luster.

The premise behind an oil based cleanser is, that oil removes oil. This is true. People with oily skin swear by oil based cleansers so I thought, why not? Plus, I am a major supporter of all products Shu Uemura.

The shampoo removes product build up but leaves good oils behind. The result is 2^nd day hair (you thick haired people get this reference) that is shiny, hydrated, and about 100 times more manageable. Obviously, this product is not for everybody. I would say I have longer, thicker hair than 99.5% of the population and on a good week, I wash it twice. The formula calms and balances the scalp and if your scalp is happy… it shows in your hair. The formula lathers up luxuriously and smells amazing. I realize $55 for shampoo is a little steep but it is SOOO worth it for anyone who has tresses or a sensitive scalp in need of some TLC. Honestly, this provides immediate relief and gratification and creates a salon-worthy blowout in about ¼ of the time minus the tired arms and multiple brushes/tools. This just made my day, month, year!

http://www.shuuemuraartofhair-usa.com/haircare/cleansing-oil.htm

Trifecta

2012-02-01T08:23:00.001-08:00

Stila Lip Glaze

There was a time when I was obsessed with Stila… I will admit, as of late, the brand has fallen off my radar but, my passion was reignited when I got a trio of their glosses as a Christmas gift. The shades Stila offers really are quite fab and diverse and for some reason I really like the clicker tube the glosses come in (it allows for the ideal amount of product each application) – what I do not like, is the very small amount of gloss in each tube. I like the paintbrush applicator and love how well the glosses last. These glosses are super high shine and supposedly the tubes are twice the size they used to be – major plus. The glosses are sweetly scented but are definitely not over powering. The shades included in my “cool” tone trio were: grapefruit (pinky coral), seashell (pale neutral pink), & raisin (deep plum). A fabulous trifecta of colors!!

Here is a link to the gloss/ glaze at Sephora:

http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P81311&om_mmc=Googlepla&_requestid=42976&cm_mmc=us_search-_-GG-_-pla-_-{keyword}&ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=1008572

Dream a BIG dream...

2012-01-30T08:34:00.000-08:00

La Prairie Cellular Power Charge Night

Somehow I just knew this product was going to be $500. I have this dream that one day I will live my life with my husband on this fabulous yacht in St. Tropez surrounded by Hermes china & matching towels and a light up dance floor (think classy Saturday Night Fever)… well, also in this dream I will be slathering myself from head to toe in La Prairie products which will be delivered by the case by my own personal helicopter. (Allan, if you’re reading, I’m 32 – can you make this happen by the time I’m 40, please??)

Anyhoo, like all La Prairie skincare, you use this & know you must have it, then you look it up, and want to cry…

I’ve been plagued with angry dry skin these last couple months because our Nashville weather is so weird. Dry skin magnifies everything that’s bad… wrinkles, fine lines, clogged pores. 2 nights of this product and I’m glowing and smooth again. The product contains retinol (which can be drying) but a burst of oxygen counteracts that drying effect and plumps and smoothes. My fine lines were diminished, my dry flaking skin completely disappeared and in it’s place appeared fresh, luminous skin. If you can swing the $475 for an ounce price you should bath in this. You’ll look 15 years younger.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/la-prairie-cellular-power-charge-night-infusion/3216468

Giorgio Armani Regenessence

2012-01-27T08:26:00.000-08:00

Giorgio Armani Regenessence Youth Regenerator

Another one of the ever increasing in popularity youth serums on the market… this one by Armani some say really delivers. Regenessence is marketed as a corrective rejuvenating cream. It can be applied morning or evening, and the science behind the product accelerates cell/skin turnover. It’s 3 most potent & powerful ingredients are: ProXylan, linseed extract and vitamin CP AND it promises to reduce wrinkles by 71% within one hour. Ok, I did not see this result and while I don’t have actual wrinkles, I do have minimal fine lines on my forehead and while my skin looked plump and hydrated, my lines were no less visible after several applications. Just keepin’ it real.

After 6 days, skin is supposed to be 88% (I’ll get back to you on this) more radiant and in one month this serum is supposed to take 6 years off my face. Too bad I’m using a deluxe sample and will not get a month out of it. Otherwise, I guess in Feb. I’d wake up as a 26 year old. Dream a little dream, right?? Should we take Armani’s word for it? For only $140.00, I’m a bit skeptical.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/giorgio-armani-regenessence-3-r-youth-regenerator/3164157

Plum & Green?

2012-01-24T08:28:00.000-08:00

By Terry Crayon Khol Terrybly in Bronze Generation

http://www.drugstore.com/by-terry-crayon-khol-terrybly-bronze-generation/qxp375206?catid=12977

By Terry Silky Eye Shadow in Silky Plum

http://www.barneys.com/Silky-Eye-Shadow/00469505001422,default,pd.html

I attended Private Edition’s By Terry event last weekend & requested a smoky eye (as usual) but said I was willing to branch out in terms of the color. My makeup artist was Becca and she created a gorgeous plum based smoky eye for me combined with a shimmering forest green/bronze pencil. I wanted a look that was a little less heavy and more natural and that is totally what I got. Here’s a close up.

What do you think?

Epicuren Lip Balm

2012-01-23T11:17:00.000-08:00

Epicuren Enzyme Balm

This product goes to show that sometimes it’s just as worth it to spend $9 as it is to spend $90.

This cute little gold tube (think luxury Chapstick x10) of enzyme balm is so smooth and soothing and tea tree oil gives it such a fabulous scent and feel. Plus, it has SPF – which I love in a lip balm. It’s additionally packed with cocoa butter, vitamins A & E, and aloe vera. It stays on your lips so well and really leaves them feeling nourished, soft, smooth & protected. We all know I’m a gloss addict but sometimes there is nothing better than a little old school tube of lip balm.

Lip bliss whether you’re on a ski slope in Aspen or a beach in Barbados! (Thx, Gin!!)

To quote my friend, Stephanie Green Bass, of (Pla) Cosmetics… “It’s the balm!”

PS (Pla) makes an equally fab balm too that I’ve mentioned/posted before. If you’re in Nashville or Atlanta you can find (Pla) at Woo.

You can find Epicuren on Amazon. Links to both below:

http://wooskincareandcosmetics.com/

http://www.amazon.com/Epicuren-Enzyme-Balm-tube-0-15/dp/B005FQ664I

Happy Friday!

2012-01-20T07:33:00.000-08:00

Here's some weekend inspiration for you!!

Why doesn't the water cooler in my office serve Moet??

**image via http://www.apartmenttherapy.com

Something to talk about…

2012-01-19T06:49:00.000-08:00

I’m dying to try:

Bumble & Bumble Concen-straight

http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P304102&om_mmc=Googlepla&_requestid=42976&cm_mmc=us_search-_-GG-_-pla-_-{keyword}&ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=1008572

Ojon Super Sleek Hair Treatment

http://www.ojon.com/product/8344/21103/Shop-by-Ritual/Shop-by-Ritual-Name/Super-Sleek/super-sleek-Hair-Straightening-Treatment/index.tmpl

Straight/frizz free hair with no formaldehyde or other harmful ingredients that lasts for up to 30 shampoos minus the long hours in a salon and the hefty keratin treatment price tag? Yes, please!!

Talk amongst yourselves. :)

By Terry Primer

2012-01-17T08:14:00.000-08:00

By Terry Hyaluronic Face Glow

A complete wonder product that can be worn alone or as a primer under your usual foundation. I applied the primer at 7:30 yesterday morning and 5 + hours later there was not so much as a hint of shine on my skin. My whole face looked flawless and trust me, this is far from the norm. I received a complimentary tube of this as a gift with a makeover last weekend and I’m LOVING it. Ideal for weekends when you’re running errands and don’t want a full face of makeup but want to smooth and even out your complexion a little bit. Also equally as ideal for the office under foundation, as it’s nice to not be oily and shiny by lunch time. Additionally perfect for nights out!! The formula is like a whipped mouse that conceals imperfections, evens skin tone, and fills in large pores and fine lines.

I couldn’t stop looking in the mirror b/c I was in total disbelief that 5 hours after my pre-office morning makeup application my skin still looked exactly the same. Genius! A total secret weapon – I seriously look airbrushed. $65 for a tube that will last you the better part of a year – a little goes a long way. I used only on my T-zone and in a couple areas of redness. Read more about the science behind this incredible product by clicking the link below:

http://www.byterry.com/make-up/complexion/primer/hyaluronic-face-glow.html

BY TERRY ROUGE TERRYBLY

2012-01-16T07:16:00.000-08:00

By Terry Rouge Terrybly in “Love Me Tender” (#802)

The most perfect lipstick EVER. I went to a By Terry event at Private Edition this weekend (more on that later) & my lovely makeup artist, Becca, presented me with this when I requested a nude/natural lip to go with my always smoky eyes. I’ve been searching for that perfect J-Lo-esque color for years… I have finally found it! This lipstick has a slight shimmer, wears wonderfully, is long lasting and doesn’t cake or flake. It is super nourishing, hydrating & contains hyaluronic acid to plump, fill lines and create a smooth surface. Using the Baume De Rose as a primer first makes your lips look magazine ad flawless. Top with the shimmer 24 karat Or De Rose and you’re golden (literally).

http://www.byterry.com/nouveautes/shimmer-fantasy/rouge-terrybly-shimmer.html

By Terry Eye Serum

2012-01-12T08:50:00.000-08:00

By Terry Clarte de Rose Firming Lift Radiant Eye Serum

I am oddly prone to eye puffiness in the morning – despite getting 8.5 hours of sleep pretty religiously throughout my adult life. Better puffy than dark circles though, right? This is the one and only cream/serum that has ever succeeded in de-puffing me! I absolutely adore it. It doesn’t irritate eyes and although it is a “serum” it goes on more like a cream, feeling hydrating and moisturizing. It contains 46 active ingredients that fight dark circles, wrinkles, and of course puffiness. Of course some of those ingredients are derived from the signature rose. I swear you wake up looking smooth & refreshed. New Moms, you NEED this!! Pretty spectacular. Buy at Beauty.com & get a special offer – I’ve added a link below.

http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp?pid=379881&catid=119689&aid=338669&aparam=379881

Balm by Dr. Hauschka

2012-01-11T07:23:00.000-08:00

Dr. Hauschka Lip Balm

This is an incredible lip balm that won’t break the bank. It is super long lasting and doubles as a great cuticle cream. Dr. Hauschka’s products are all holistic and not tested on animals. This yummy balm has Calendula, St. John’s Wort & Jojoba oils to gently condition lips without causing product dependency. It feels lovely on lips and is very hydrating and conditioning.

http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp?pid=167623&catid=148723&cmbProdBrandFilter=50464&mp=True&aid=338669&aparam=167623

Happy Hump Day! If you're in Nashville -- buy it at Whole Body.