Weekend Beauty Read

Enjoy weekend beauty read from Beauty Blog Network:

1. 15 Minute Beauty Fanatic checks out Prevage's New Anti-Aging Night Cream
2. Makeup Moxie reviews Sara Happ Lip Scrub and finds a solution for dry Winter lips.
3. Say NO to clumping. Beauty Anonymous recommends Kate Magical Long Gel Mascara
4. Jeni from Savvy Skin writes about her Favorite Makeup.
5. Beauty and Personality Grooming - Lemon as beauty aid
6. Enter Spoiled Pretty's latest giveaways, sponsored by J.R. Watkins and The Body Shop.
7. The Muse's Boxing Day Steals and Deals: Tarte, Vincent Longo, Bath & Body Shop, and many more sales to be found online!
8. Have a look at A Touch of Blusher's favorite Chanel blusher!

New Product: Benefit " Thrrrob "

Benefit is releasing a new blush called Thrrrob. I love Benefit's cheek colors as they come in a variety of hues to highlight, blush and shade. The new one, Thrrrob ($28), is in sheer pink color. According to the product description on the Benefit website, it is a pulse-racing pink powder just like the natural flush. I would like to try "Thrrrob" and see how different it looks from the famous " Dandelion"( in soft pink.)

Crabtree & Evelyn Big Sale

Crabtree & Evelyn is having a big sale. Holiday gift collections are 50% off and selected items are now up to 50% off. There are also selections if you buy one and the other will be for half price. Happy shopping!

Laura Mercier Seduction Collection

Christmas time has slowly passed by. As it is near the end of 2007, many cosmetics brands have just quietly released their colors for Spring 2008. Seduction Collection is the latest collection from Laura Mercier for Spring 2008.

Laura Mercier produces quality makeup base such as foundation primer and tinted moisturizer. The style of its makeup colors is neutral, contemporary and low profile, which transcends a makeup that looks modern, intellectual and refined. It has nothing really extravagant or sparkling, just like another American brand, Bobbi Brown.

[Eye Colour Quad from Laura Mercier Seduction Collection]

Seduction Collection has two sets of Eye Colour Quad ($38) that have impressed me a lot. Eye Colour Quad (in limited-edition) comes in two palettes of violet shades. When it comes to sexy and feminine colors for women, beautiful violet/lavender shades are not to be missed. The Shy Violet palette includes Deep-eggplant, shimmery-maroon, mauve, and pale-ivory-pink. On the other hand,the Wild Violet palette includes Black-violet, eggplant, pink-mauve, and ivory-pearl. I like the combination of colors for both palettes. Pinks and ivory shades soften the intense shades of violet/ deep eggplants. It is a well balance between deep and light. I also like the eyeshadow powders that are molded in shapes of petal in the center on the palette.

Other items in the Seduction Collection are:

• Brilliant Eye Liner: a liquid eye liner available in the colors of Cobalt, Golden, Onyx & Violette
• Lip Colour - Creme: includes Mistress (pink-red) and Passion (yellow-red)
• Lip Colour - Shimmer: includes Pixie (soft-rose-pink), Plum Wine (cool-mauve-wine), and Seduction (cool-blue-red)
• Center Faux Eyelashes, Corner Faux Eyelashes and Full Faux Eyelashes
• Violette Eau de Toilette
• Nail Lacquer: Avant Garde (deep-eggplant ) and Daring (rich-burgundy)

I Want This: KANEBO Kate Magical Long Gel Mascara!

Kate Cosmetics is one of the drugstore brands under Kanebo Cosmetics in Japan. This brand released Kate Magical Long Gel Mascara during Fall 2007. Unlike other mascaras that commonly use fibers to define lashes, Kate Magical Long Gel Mascara is formulated with a special gel to lengthen and intensify eyelashes without clumping. It is a smudge-proof, water-proof and long-lasting mascara.

The special gel formula of this Magical Long Gel Mascara has caught my attention. I still have a few mascaras that primarily use fibers to define lashes. I always notice little tiny fiber bits scatter around the under-eye area after several hours of wear. This is particularly noticeable when a mascara becomes drier, which means it is expiring soon. Also, dry fibers can easily clump on eyelashes. I am eager to know how the Kate Magical Long Gel Mascara works and if it is easier to apply.

There are two more reasons why this mascara should be on my makeup shopping list. This mascara is thermal-sensitive. It can be washed away easily with lukewarm water. Second, it has ingredients such as Panthenol & Olive oil to nourish eyelashes. How nice it sounds! Kate Magical Gel Mascara is currently only available in black color for 1580 Yen (approximately USD$13.80). I am very interested to give it a try.

Happy Holidays!

Cargo '07 Holiday Glossy Greetings Cards
[includes 5 seasonal greeting cards with a button of lip gloss built in]

To all the readers of Beauty Anonymous,

I would like to wish you and your loved one a happy holiday season! Thank you all for your support to Beauty Anonymous! May the joy of the season be with you!

Sincerely,

BA

Weekend Beauty Read

Please enjoy this weekend beauty read from Beauty Blog Network.

1. Got dry cow udders OR dry feet? Makeup and Beauty Blog finds Bag Balm Udderly Fantastic.
2. Temptalia reviews MAC's latest launch -- The Originals and has the swatches and product photos to entice you!
3. makeup loves me gives you a sneak peak at lancome's last pout-a-porter, pixel pink!
4. The Muse reviews Guerlain's Forever Gold from Guerlain's Holiday Collection!
5. Savvy Skin is having a contest: Win Yourself A Holiday Gift
6. Beauty Anonymous is loving Lilac Collection's Cosmetics Case and Makeup Brush Roll from Smythson
7. Elke visits Space.NK for the Total Beauty Event.
8. Stylish Opinion approves the Body Shop's Holiday Gel Set as a gift giving do.
9. The Beauty Blog Network welcomes Purse Buzz as it's newest member.
10. A Touch of Blusher recaps the 10 best Holiday 2007 collections.
11. It will be a white Christmas for Spoiled Pretty, thanks to Aquafresh White Trays.
12. Beauty and Personality Grooming - 11 things you can do with olive oil
13. 15 Minute Beauty Fanatic spends the day with Max Factor & Makeup Artist Jake Bailey
14. Makeup Moxie gets her holiday face on with the Tarte We Wish You Health gift set.
15. Bionic Beauty reviews Boots No. 7 Volumizing Mascara after a two week trial.
16. The Beauty of Life falls in love with products from Space NK for the holidays.
17. All Lacquered Up's Nail Tip Of The Week - Fake A Pedicure

The US Launch of ck Calvin Klein Beauty Line

[Photo credit: Fashion Wire Daily]

According to Fashion Wire Daily, the new beauty line of Calvin Klein will be launched at Sephora nationwide in US by January 2008. The new beauty collection with over 200 new products for Spring '08 are inspired from the fashion runway collection and the way the colors are applied for Calvin Klein collections. The average price is $20 per item. I am looking forwarding to it and will keep you updated when I have more information.

Updated on Jan, 08, 2008:
Check out A Touch of Blusher for the UK Launch of ck Calvin Klein Beauty!

Updated on Feb, 19, 2008:
ck Calvin Klein Beauty will launch in UK in March, 2008. A Touch of Blusher has updated information of the UK launch!

Related posts:
Close-ups of Calvin Klein Cosmetics

ck Calvin Klein Beauty's Official Website

ck Calvin Klein Beauty is Coming Back Soon

Designs and Styles of Japanese Nail Art

[Photo credit: Maquia magazine January 2008 issue]

[Photo credit: Voce magazine February 2008 issue]

Nail fashion is one of the popular beauty trends in Japan. I always pay attention to different designs and styles of Japanese nail art when I am reading beauty magazines. Japanese creative nail artists always can transform nails in a delicate form of arts. Nail designs often involve gluing artificial nail chips to natural nails, techniques of painting and blending shades, applications of piercing, decorating ornaments of lace, beads, jewels, crystals, glitter and etc. These Japanese nail designs are expressed on high level of sophistication and precision.

Check out the online prints featured on the Maquia magazine (January 2008 issue) and the Voce magazine (February 2008 issue). I enjoy seeing every piece of work and how the artists interpret the nail art in various styles from cute, ladylike, elegant, cool to simple design. I am always stunned by the nail designs that are elaborately painted and delicately decorated.

Treating my nails with Japanese manicure/Japanese nail art makes me feel luxurious and feminine. I guess all the longer nails and beautiful details are the reason why. Although long nails with brilliant colors and jewels are probably not suitable for doing houseworks like laundry and dish washing daily basis. However, it is truly a delicate form of art that sometimes I would love to treat myself with a Japanese manicure for special occasions.

Chanel Nail Polish from the Aurora Blues Accent Collection for Spring 2008

[Photo Credit: temptalia.com]

Chanel is introducing a limited-edition lineup of nail colors ($19) as a part of the Aurora Blues Accent Collection for spring 2008, which includes Blue Satin, Rose Satin, White Satin and Azure. I remember when Chanel Black Satin was released in late July 2006, it was sold out everywhere. Celebrities and beauty lovers raved about it, which, eventually forced Chanel to produce more of this cult nail polish to fulfill its high demand.

This season, the dark hued nail shades are still hot. The Goth look has gained growing popularity. Chanel's Blue Satin is a new shade from its spring Aurora Blues Accent Collection 2008. It is a very deep blue with subtle shimmer. It is pigmented with glossy shine. Azure is a sheer baby blue that contains multicolored shimmer. The nail colors from Aurora Blues Accent are now available at Chanel's website.

Related posts:

Chanel Nail Color in Magnolia Rose - Part 2

Nail Color Tulipe Noir by Chanel

Smythson of Bond Street

[Photo credit: Smythson website]

Selecting a cosmetics bag to keep my beauty supplies organized is very important. To pick out a beautiful cosmetics bag that has the right functionality to carry all my favorite makeups is even more important. Since it is an everyday-use item, it has to be spacious, durable, and has to be aesthetically pleasing.

I came across Smythson's leather good last weekend on Harper's Bazaar's "A Fashionable Life" Fall 2007. The one featured on Bazaar's magazine was the leather brush roll from Smythson's Lilac collection. Its stylish design caught my eyes and I immediately dived into cyberworld to search for more information. I have had a ride browsing Smythson's website.

Smythson has a heritage of fine stationary, leather goods and cabinet work since 1887. Among its various collections, I am particularly fond of Aqua Adamo, Lilac, and Nancy Handbag Collections. The Lilac Collection, however, has impressed me the most. The design is simple, yet it is stylish and elegant. The Lilac color adds a soft and feminine touch.

Part of the Autumn/Winter 2007 collection, The Cosmetics Case ($225) from Lilac Collection is made of new soft Adamo calfskin. It is definitely a good quality that can withstand wear for years. The size is 18 x 11 x 7cm (7" x 4" x 2.5"). The Make-up Brush Roll ($510) is also fantastic. It is also made of soft Adamo calfskin and includes eight professional quality brushes and tweezers. The brush roll is 26 x 10cm (10.25" x 5"). These two beauty accessories are just added to my wish list for this year. I hope you also enjoy browsing the Smythson website!

Christmas 2007 Makeup Look - Part 2

The last post on Christmas 2007 Makeup Look features makeup styles for holiday occasions. Today's Christmas 2007 Makeup Look - Part 2 is going to wrap up with another four holiday makeup styles.

Natural Looking:

Dior: The Dior Light Collection 2007 features a fresh and velvety complexion. There are no excessive colors on face. The makeup is mainly focused on saturated and curvier lips. Eyes are gilded with metallic bronze colors. Face is simple and bright. The Dior Light Collection's smooth and flawless look is suitable for natural beauties.

• Apply eyeliner along upper lashline
• Layer the combination of pale and metallic bronze shades on eyes
• Highlight the coppery metal eyes with a touch of pastel light shade
• Use light face powder to enhance and highlight the face as the final touch

Sophisticated Elegant:

Shu Uemura: The makeup look of The Muse Holiday collection 2007 is dewy and soft. The Muse Collection applies a lot of darker shades like chocolate and golden bronze. It doesn't look dull because the golden shades soften and create a vibrant and subtle complexion. I really like it radiates with elegance and sophistication.

• Apply a soft and thin layer of eye liner on upper lashline and lower lashline
• Brush the golden warm shades on eyes
• Sweep the shade in gold beige on cheeks
• Use the shade of chocolate brown on lips

Warm Smoky:


Smashbox: From the Beyond Beauty Holiday 2007 Collection

• Brush the copper eye color from lashline to brow
• Sweep the champagne shade again from lashline to brow
• Apply the copper shadow in the crease and extend color up and toward the brow bone
• Line the inner lash line of lower lid in pearly white
• Brush the bronze shadow on lower lashline
• Brighten the inner corner of eyes with a touch of champagne shade
• Use light pearl and shimmery chanpagne on cheeks
• Keep lips light in nude shade

Drastic Smoky:

Maquillage: The Maquillage Winter Collection 2007 features strong smoky eyes.

• Smudge a line along upper lash line to the end
• Apply the silver shade from lashline above the crease.
• Brush the blackest black on eyes and extend up toward the outer corner of eyes
• Apply dark shadows on lower lasheline toward the outer corner of eyes
• Brighten the inner corner of eyes with silver and white shadow.
• Keep lips in nude beige shades.

Weekend Beauty Read

Finally, weekend is here. Please pamper yourself with these fabulous postings from Beauty Blog Network:

1. Elke looks back at her first trip to NY and how it changed her.
2. Temptalia shares nine beauty-themed gift guides for all your friends and family for the holiday season!
3. Savvy Skin has a Freeze 24/7 Review And Contest
4. SugarShock is craving beauty treats that smell good enough to eat.
5. makeup loves me is giving away two limited edition prescriptives illuminator all over face color bricks! head on over to leave a comment and win!
6. A Touch of Blusher loves lilac!
7. Do you want MARC JACOBS fragrance sets for a steal? Kyle at Face Candy has the scoop.
8. The Muse Battles Dry Winter Skin with a Review of Philosophy's Microdelivery Wash!
9. Beauty Anonymous reviews Roxy Fragrance and Delicate Shower Gel
10. Because good things come in small packages, Makeup Moxie's got the ultimate guide to beauty stocking stuffers that are almost too pretty to part with.
11. The Glitterati feels pretty... oh so pretty... in West Side.
12. Beauty and Personality Grooming - Chilblains:a skin affliction that occurs in winter
13. All Lacquered Up previews the spring polish collections from Chanel, China Glaze, CND and Zoya
14. 15 Minute Beauty Fanatic tries out Max Factor's Vivid Impact Highlighting Mascara for something fun

Product Review: Roxy Fragrance and Delicate Shower Gel

Roxy is a women’s sportswear brand from California since 1990. Its clothings are designed especially for outdoor fun while keeping a fit, flexible and feminine style. Today, the brand has expanded to offer every aspect from sportswear, everyday outfit, tide watch, handbag and Roxy fragrance. I am not an outdoor person in any way. But when I was asked to test out a package of Roxy fragrance, I sure would love to take this opportunity to sample the scent of Roxy spirit - "daring, confident, naturally beautiful, fun and alive."

The sample package includes a Roxy Eau de Toilette (100ml for $58) and a Delicate Shower Gel (150ml for $20.) Roxy fragrance is created by the perfumer at Givaudan (the world's leading company in the industry of flavors and fragrances), Antoine Maisondieu. The fragrance is inspired by the spirit and lifestyle of Roxy. Following is Antoine's brief olfactory translation:

"In order to give the scent a unique signature, to create a dynamic olfactory rhythm and sublime all the facets of the Roxy attitude, I first of all punctuated it with a zest of citrus fruits and velvety berries to illustrate its energetic, playful character. Then, I added Magnolia, Lily of the Valley and Violet: joyful flowers with luminous essences. Lastly, I chose Musk and a magnificent "organic" Ylang which - when married with the tropical richness of the Frangipani flower - illuminate the ensemble in a Salted Amber harmony." [Source: roxy.com]

To me, the fragrance of Roxy is quite feminine, joyful, and fresh. As the first and second spritzes burst into air around me, I can sense citrus and red berries immediately. My first impression of it (or first impression of the "top notes" ) is fruity and overly sweet. But it disappears quickly within minutes. Within half hour or so, the middle notes starts to emerge. I enjoy Roxy's middle notes very much. The combination of lily of the valley, violet, magnolia, organic ylang-ylang is subtle and feminine. I especially like the clean floral scent of Lily of the Valley quietly along in the ride. Musk and amber in the base notes harmonize the floral middle notes and hold the fragrance together.

Overall, I enjoy Roxy fragrance a lot. It is a delicately floral fragrance, but not overpowering. It is suitable for everyday use at daytime or preferably in the spring and summer time. The Delicate Shower Gel is also delightful. It contains pearl extract, and is easy to lather up. It leaves my skin a light fruity scent, and enhances the application of the Roxy fragrance.

Roxy fragrance features:

• Top notes: Citrus, red berries
• Middle notes: Lily of the valley, violet, magnolia, organic ylang-ylang
• Base notes: Musk, frangipani blossom, amber

*The samples are provided by Roxy. However, this review is solely based on my personal opinions after using this product.*

Close-ups of Calvin Klein Cosmetics

A Touch of Blusher has an updated post on the new Calvin Klein cosmetics. I am thrilled to learn that ck Calvin Klein has been launched in Canada, available exclusively in The Bay. She also has updated us with very nice images from the ck Calvin Klein brochure. Let's check out her post for more details and close-ups!

Paul & Joe Cosmetics: Full Line Available in Bergdorf Goodman

An anonymous reader has kindly left a comment on my post regarding Paul & Joe Beaute. She (or he) mentions that the full line of Paul & Joe cosmetics is actually available in the New York-based Bergolf Goodman store and a few online beauty stores. I would like to take this opportunity to thank this reader. Your message immediately made my day!

As you know, Paul & Joe has started as a fashion brand in Paris since 1995. The woman behind Paul & Joe, Sophe Albou, is a French fashion designer. In 2002, Paul & Joe Beaute has launched and based in Japan. However, they do not make their products available on their official website. In addition, there are not many of their store locations available outside of Japan. This has actually caused Paul & Joe beauty products hard-to-find ones in the US. However, it never stops beauty lovers from looking for it. I've noticed more and more people like this brand and eager to find out where to purchase online. I have received emails and comments from readers about where to buy Paul & Joe. Before that, I bought Paul & Joe along with other products from online stores overseas. From now on, I'll probably stop paying international shipping fee and will get it from Bergdorf Goodman.

I am going to list all the websites that carry more complete Paul & Joe products. I hope this can be alternative options for those who are from different cities or countries where Paul & Joe products are not available locally.

Below is some information on where to buy Paul & Joe Beaute:

1. Here are Paul & Joe's store locations worldwide
2. Bergdorf Goodman from NYC: The entire line of Paul & Joe Beaute is available in store, including its Christmas collection 2007. The website of Bergdorf Goodman doesn't feature Paul & Joe Beaute at this moment. But if you are interested in any specific item(s), you can call Bergdorf Goodman and ask for Paul & Joe counter. They are willing to take your order through phone and ship the products to you within the US. Their phone number is 1.800.218.4918
3. Here are some online shopping websites: http://www.luileiny.com/, http://www.musthave.co.uk/, http://www.hqhair.com/, and http://www.beautybay.com/. These are the four websites I find they carry much more complete Paul & Joe products. The first one is based in US. The latter three are based in UK.

Enjoy browsing these websites and happy shopping. I still want to thank once again to my anonymous reader for passing on Paul & Joe's shopping information to me.

Holiday Gift Idea 2007: for Beauty Lovers

Christmas is coming in just two weeks. Many of you might be trying to find the best deal and best gift for the loved one or just to pamper yourself for a working hard this year. Here are few gift idea, particularly for beauty lovers.

1. Estée Lauder Evening Elegance Powder Compact

The Evening Elegance Powder Com is inspired by Art Deco designs of the 1930s. I like its simplicity, yet stunningly elegant. The compact is patterned with golden wave lines. The closure is adorned with Baguette crystals. It is a refined limited edition collectible gift.

2. Shu Uemura Simple Drama Set

The Simple Drama Set includes a mini makeup palette and a compact brush set. The Compact Mini Palette has: Pressed Eye shadow Matte Powder Blue, Pressed Eyeshadow Iridescent Starry Midnight Black, and Glow On Blush in Pearlized Peach. The Holiday Compact Brush Set has: Blush Brush, Eye Shadow Brush, Lip/Eye Liner Brush, Concealer/ Foundation Brush. This is a Limited-edition set.

3. Laura Mercier Diamond Duster

Laura Mercier Diamond Duster is made of Marabou feathers. It is kind of an old-fashioned way to dust powder on face and body. To apply with shimmery cbody powder, it could creates a subtle glow. Isn't it like a magic duster that works beauty wonders in the holiday season?

4. Jill Stuart Mix Blush Compact

The packaging of Jill Stuart Mix Blush Compact is absolutely adorable and princessy. The quad pressed powder comes with a retractable brush to create a glowing cheek shade. The powder is refined and a little shimmery. The Mix Blush Compact comes with four different shades in four sets of colors (01:baby blush, 02:rose bloom, 03:coral glow and 04:hot cherry). It has a hint of floral fragrance in a very light way.

5. L'Occitane Ultimate Shea Butter Gift Box

This Ultimate Shea Butter Gift Box includes: Shea Butter Extra Gentle Soap - Milk, Shea Butter Ultra Rich Body Cream, Shea Butter Hand Cream. Made from the fruit of the African shea tree, both the hand cream and the body cream are enriched with 20 % shea butter. The texture is rich and creamy. Other than all the goodness that nourishes my hands quickly, one thing I cannot live without is the pleasant fragrance of L'Occitane Shea Butter line. The smell is soft and clean. This is one of my all-time favorite hand creams. I like to pamper my hands with the lovely hand cream before hitting the sack.

6. Dior J'adore Pouch Set

The Dior J'adore Pouch Set includes Eau de Parfum Spray 1.7 oz, Perfumed Body Lotion 1.7 oz, Perfumed Bath and Shower Gel 1.7 oz and a couture design pouch. Notes: Mandarin, Champaca Flowers, Ivy, African Orchid, Rose, Violet, Damascus Plum, Amaranth Wood, Blackberry Musk. The fragrance is definitely feminine, floral and sensual, but not overwhelmingly sweet. ( The information of The J'adore notes is sourced: Sephora website.)

Related post: Holiday Gift Idea 2007: Lip Gloss Set

Weekend Beauty Read

Enjoy your weekend beauty read from the Beauty Blog Network:

1. Enter the giveaway for Milani Mineral Makeup at Bionic Beauty
2. Kyle shows you the wonderful world of Chantecaille Gift Sets
3. "And what Sephora has joined together, let no man put asunder..." The Glitterati is just about ready to marry Dior's new Crème de Gloss
4. Beauty and Personality Grooming shares a few homemade hydrating masks
5. Mystical Beauty's Musings reviews the MAC Heirlooms:5 Basic Brush Set
6. A multi-tasking cheek and lip color that actually works? Makeup Moxie reviews Sukicolor Cream Stain mineral makeup.
7. A Touch of Blusher previews YSL spring 2008 makeup collection.
8. SugarShock has found a hall-of-fame hand cream.
9. makeup loves me checks out the new orgasm products (by nars of course)
10. Beauty Anonymous reviews DHC Deep Cleansing Oil
11. Karen from Makeup and Beauty Blog gives you 10 Ways to Winter-Proof Your Hair
12. Savvy Skin presents Savvy Skin's Best Of Fall 2007
13. Vote for your favorite nail products of the year in the All Lacquered Up Fanatic's Favorites 2007
14. 15 Minute Beauty Fanatic checks out the hype behind Kinerase and reviews the product
15. Girl Gloss rounds up some luxury lip items for holiday gifts
16. The Muse shares her Lush UK Order Featuring Snowcake Shower Gel!

Bulgari Flagship Openings in Tokyo

[Photo credit: http://www.bulgari.com/]

Who can resist Bulgari jewelry at the moment flipping through magazine or glancing the diamonds at Bulgari boutique? According to WWD.com, this Italian jewelry and leather goods brand, BULGARI, has opened two major stores in Tokyo, Japan last month. The flagship store in the Omotesando region also houses a cafe and gourmet chocolate shop in addition to offering luxurious goods and pieces. And this flagship store in Ginza is currently the largest Bulgari store in the world to offer not only fine jewelry and goods, but also superior bridal and restaurant services. These two stores commemorate Bulgari's 20 years milestone in Japan.

Each Bulgari chocolate contains a unique filling [Photo credit: wwd.com]

It is not the first time Bulgari makes its move to the restaurant ventures. Its gourmet chocolates at the Omotesando store are very popular in Japan. Average 700 to 800 of chocolates a day are sold over the weekend. The jewelry and leather goods brand has successfully expanded its service to provide luxury hospitality in some of the beautiful cities and resorts in the world. In 2004, Bulgari first opened a hotel in Milan, then the second one in Bali in 2006.

[Photo credit: http://www.bulgarihotel.com/]

In Ginza, the mega store is a 10-floor tower with more than 10,000 sq. ft of floor space. The ground floor displays jewelry and watches. The second floor offers luxurious leather goods, eyewear, and other accessories. The third floor provides bridal salon service and VIP shopping rooms for jewelry. The top three floor houses a panoramic restaurant and cocktail bar. The restaurant overviews the spectacular skyline of Ginza. The Ginza tower will also feature Bulgari's new skincare line and beauty treatments in store by 2009.

The Bulgari store in Ginza [Photo credit: wwd.com]

Christmas 2007 Makeup Look

December is the year end holiday season. You are probably still planning on how to dress up for your family party, school party or company party. Let's take a glance at the current holiday makeup looks for holiday 2007. Today, I am featuring themes of "Old Hollywood Glamour" and "Innocent Sweet". You and I probably can gain inspirations for the ultimately glamorous look to rock at the holiday party. More holiday makeup themes from western and Asian brands to come next on a separate post.

Sophisticated Old Hollywood Glamour:

Giorgio Armani beauty

"The Black Gem Collection 2007" defines the holiday makeup an old Hollywood style. Following are steps to create such look:

• Use black eyeliner to define drastic and powerful eyes
• Apply eye shadows in Sparkling Sand & Satin Purple to soften the black lash line and blend the colors up above the crease
• Highlight the inner corner of eyes by adding a touch of shimmer
• Choose Sparkling Red (with subtle silver shimmer) to give the lips a luscious shiny finish
• Cheeks are applied pink silky powder from the Black Gem Palette light
• Eyebrows keep muted and soft

Estée Lauder

"Into the Night Gold Holiday 2007" features golden ruby lips and soft eye shades. These are steps to create such look:

• Apply Estée Lauder Signature Shimmer Powder in Rose Pearl on cheeks
• Highlight the inner corner of eyes in Golden Peach
• Stong and full eye brows
• Blend Signature Silky Eyeshadow Duo in Citrine from lash line to brow
• Use the lighter bronze shade over brow bone
• Apply Pure Color Long Lasting Lipstick in Gold Ruby on lips

Innocent & Sweet:

Bobbi Brown
"The Pink Quartz Collection" features shimmering soft golden pinks. These are a few steps to create this look:

• Sweep Pale Pink Blush on cheeks, then highlight the Pink Quartz Shimmer Brick (comprised of five different shades of pink, rose, beige and gold ) on cheekbones
• Apply the classic black ink gel eyeliner along upper lashline
• Blend the cream eye shadow in Ballet Pink to keep eyes simple
• Use glitter lip gloss in Pink Quartz on the lips for a luscious and shiny look

Chanel
"The Christmas Collection 2007" plays colors with subtle shimmering silvers, warm bronzes and refined twinkling pinks.

• Eyes and lips are created with light shades in pinks for an innocent and young look
• Eyebrows are full and angled
• Give a touch of blusher in soft pink on the cheeks
• The whole makeup theme is about iridescent light and a satiny glow

Holiday Gift Idea 2007: Lip Gloss Set

Holiday collections are already up! At the end of the year, many cosmetics companies release gift sets of lip gloss. These lip glosses are mostly produced in smaller or mini sizes and come in a range of shades from light to intense tones. I personally prefer light shade for lip gloss. But during winter, there are occasions that need bold and stronger lip colors. A lip gloss set combined with the advantages of small size and versatile color selection is a perfect little treat! Here are a few:

1. Bobbi Brown Mini Tube Tints Set: ($28) includes four exclusive shades exclusive: one lip tint, one shimmer lip tint, and two glitter lip tints.

2. Lancome Juicy Tubes Gift Set: ($37.50) includes eight shades of shine. Check out my previous post for review on Lancome Juicy Tubes.

3. Chantecaille Lip Gloss Set: ($65) includes six mini lip glosses.

4. Benefit Cosmetics Her Glossiness Set> ($26): includest three double-ended lip glosses.



5. Smashbox Light Speed Lip Gloss Collection ($90 Value) Light Speed Lip Gloss Collection ($29): includes six sheer lip glosses.

6.Stila Gift of Glaze($28): includes six mini lip glosses.

7. Shu Uemura Lip Gloss Set:($45): includes three lip gloss shades. The set comes with a cosmetics case.

8. Givenchy Pop Gloss Set ($25): includes three mini lip gloss shades in a small black bag.

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil

I have mentioned DHC Deep Cleansing Oil on my blog before. It is now the time I share all the good things why I love this makeup remover so much. DHC is a direct mail skincare company from Japan. It started with just three beauty products. Since then, the company has developed various beauty and health products. It has now expanded their market worldwide. I am pleasantly surprised to find that it is quite easy and simple to shop at DHC's US website! The best thing is the pricing does not dramatically double up like other Japanese brands in the US such as Shiseido, Kose, or Kanebo. Furthermore, I found there are some DHC items sold in the US that are actually cheaper than in Asia.

For a long time, I have been pretty loyal to Shu Uemura's cleansing oils. In the past time, I once tried different makeup removers from Fancl and RMK (honestly, they are all excellent makeup removers). During that time, I always wanted to try DHC Deep Cleansing Oil because I heard many people rave about it. At the end, I was lured away by Shu Uemura's cleansing oils because I was too afraid the olive oil based ingredient would be overwhelming for my skin. It was not until a couple months ago, my Shu Uemura High Performance Balancing Cleansing Oil Light (this item is discontinued) ran out, DHC came on to my shopping list. I was thinking to give it a try. And, the result was outstanding!

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil doesn't have fragrance, although its golden yellow color just looks like the olive oil in kitchen. If fragrance is put into comparison, Shu Uemura, RMK or Fancl are slightly better with the smell than DHC. DHC Deep Cleansing Oil smells quite "natural" to me. It has a hint of olive oil. To me, the smell is not really bothersome. I believe it has something to do with the value and philosophy that the company wants to produce products without adding unnecessary coloring agents or irritating fragrances.

Compared to other makeup removers like Shu Uemura or Fancl, the texture of DHC Deep Cleansing Oil is thicker. It is a little harder to spread over and apply on the face at the beginning. However, it dissolves my makeup easily and quickly. It cleans up all types of makeup, dirt, and even those waterproof black eyeliner gel and mascara. On the part of washing off the waterproof makeup part, I personally feels DHC does a better job than Shu Uemura. The olive oil based ingridents deliver a gentile feeling, however, it doesn't turn my face greasy, itchy or dry after I wash my face. It feels totally clean and supple! Price for 6.7 fl. oz. is $24, an affordable price for such a good quality product.

Beauty Weekend Read

Enjoy your beauty weekend read from Beauty Blog Network:

1. Bionic Beauty reviews the new Milani Black Magic Eyeliner.
2. Christine at 15 Minute Beauty Fanatic discovers a quick way to moisturize her hands and feet.
3. Kyle at Face Candy, says YES to Carrots.
4. Jeni from Savvy Skin gives you an extensive Guide To Cure Acne.
5. A Touch of Blusher previews Anna Sui spring 2008 makeup collection.
6. Because it's nice to be a little naughty, Makeup Moxie taps into the Good Girl, Bad Girl Palette
7. SugarShock has found the secret to looking fabulous in every photo: Smashbox Flawless Finish Skin Perfectors.
8. Beauty and Personality Grooming - Winter hair care.
9. Preview Chanel's Blue Satin Nail Polish before it releases on All Lacquered Up.
10. Karen from Makeup and Beauty Blog lists 43 makeup and non-makeup things she's thankful for this year.
11. The Glitterati fights The Man: They can take her time and her money, but they'll never get her Rimmel Viny Lip lipgloss!
12. Makeup Loves Me finds the perfect holiday gift for mom!
13. MAC Nail Lacquer and Fluidline Giveaway at Mystical Beauty's Musings.
14. Beauty and Fashion Tech looks at Beauty Accessories for Holiday Gifts
15. Elke tries the new Loreal Infalliable Lipcolor, over Thanksgiving Dinner.
16. Stylish Opinion finds a chocolate body scrub, good enough to eat!
17. Beauty Anonymous roundups 2007 Holiday Makeup Collection
18. Temptalia reviews MAC's THE STYLISTICS with in-depth detail, product photos, and swatches. from Too Faced.

Free holiday clutch@Sephora!

With any purchase of $50, you will receive a clutch for free at Sephora! The metallic clutch is stuffed with 11 samples, including Aquolina Pink Sugar Eau de Toilette, Cosmedicine Primary Care Multi-Tasking Moisturizer SPF 20, Dior J'adore Eau de Parfum, Dior Pure Poison Eau de Parfum, Kenzo KenzoAmour Eau de Parfum, Ojon Restorative Hair Treatment, Philosophy The Present Clear Makeup, Sephora Brand Lash Plumper , Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer SPF 15 With Dermaxyl Complex, Stila Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15 in Shade 1, Urban Decay Eyeshadow in Midnight Cowboy and Mildew. Just simply enter GLAMBAG at checkout!


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