Ad Campaign of Tom Ford Fall 2011 Makeup Collection [Photo credit: www.wwd.com]
Tom Ford's first-ever cosmetics collection, Private Blend Lip Color Collection, debuted last year has been very well received. I bought its Private Blend Lip Color in Pink Dusk (mid-tone dusty nude pink), and it has been among my favorite lippies. I adore its sleek, architectural, yet classy ivory and gold case. The neutral pink shade without any shimmer is phenomenally lovely. Not to mention how the velvety moisturizing texture feels to the touch.
I was thrilled to learn that Tom Ford will release its full makeup collection in this September. The collection will include more than 130 items from foundations, eye pencils, lipsticks, lip glosses, serums, creams to perfumes, and will be sold at Tom Ford stores, Nieman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman and Saks Fifth Avenue stores.
This upcoming makeup line looks beautiful in the campaign image. I can't wait for more follow- up information on this collection.
I am so excited to hear the news that one of my favorite skincare brands, Aesop, will be opening their first store in Nolita, NYC this summer. After that, a kiosk will be opened in the Grand Central in July and a second shop in West Village before Christmas.
I always love their understated apothecary style of packaging, botanical-based ingredients and lovely natural scents. Even though the forthcoming Aesop stores in NYC are still far away from where I live, I am glad that I could get to feel their products again when I visit the Big Apple next time. I truly hope more nationwide stores are in part of the brand's rollout plan.
I just came back from a desert vacation in the dead heat of summer. Before this, I have never been to a desert, nor have any experience suffering the immensely dry and hot desert weather all day long. Needless to say, the only nice chilled areas were indoor places with powerful AC on.
All I needed in my vanity bag were something that could resist water, sweat and sebum well to keep a fresh look from day and night. Some of the stuff I brought failed to beat the heat, but I am proud that some items did hold up well in the desert weather. I thought I could share with you.
Bobbi Brown Lip Tint SPF15 in Lily: sheer pigment, excellent moisturizing ability & fresh mint scent
Kate Glam Trick Eyes in BR-1: nice color gradation, beautiful color pay-off for daytime and nighttime makeup & good sweat-proof and crease-proof formula
The Wall Street Journal profiled NARS Cosmetics Founder & Creative Director François Nars. Highlighting his favorite things, François named objects found on Motu Tane, his very own Tahitian island and a great source of inspiration behind many of the products he creates for NARS. See below for a quick guide to the brains behind the beauty at NARS.
Flower: a gardenia that grows on Motu Tane; also the inspiration behind NARS Monoï Body Glow II. François has over 70 bushes in his garden.
Coconut: “I could just eat Coconut and be the happiest man in the world,” says François, who eats it daily while on Motu Tane. Coconut lover, also? Its extract is used in NARS Body Glow (the shimmering counterpart to NARS Monoï Body Glow II-both have the same scent).
Chawanmushi: a Japanese steamed-egg custard dish. François is “mad about Japanese food.” However food isn’t the only object of Japan close to François’ heart. Check out his Japanese-inspired NARS Kabuki Brushes
Roi Soleil Candle, Cire Trudon: a mix of French oak, pine and citrus inspired by the scent of the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles. For another Versailles-inspired product, check out new-for-summer NARS Versailles Nail Polish
In commemoration of World Oceans Day (June 8th) 2010, Oceana Spokeswoman January Jones participates in the World Oceans Day dive in Berlize sponsored by La Mer to help raise awareness of ocean conservation and marine environmental issues.
As today marks the second official UN World Oceans Day, it is my pleasure to share the video of the World Oceans Day dive by Oceana Spokeswoman January Jones.
La Mer Celebrates Fifth Anniversary of Partnership with Oceana
With a heritage deeply rooted to the beauty and power of the sea, La Mer is proud to announce the fifth anniversary of its partnership with Oceana, the world’s leading international ocean advocacy organization. Since 2005, La Mer has actively supported the efforts of Oceana in the protection and preservation of the oceans as a tribute to its founder, Dr. Max Huber. Inspired by the rejuvenating and healing powers of the sea, La Mer has created a limited-edition 100 ml World Oceans Day “blue” Crème de la Mer jar and will make a $200,000 donation to Oceana. This is the first time the look of La Mer’s signature Crème de la Mer jar has been changed; “going blue” signifies the brand’s continued commitment to the oceans.
La Mer World Oceans Day Crème 2010
Successes, Support and Expansion
The remarkable accomplishments of Oceana have raised critical awareness on the plight of our seas and their precious resources. Oceana’s specific campaigns to promote habitat protection, pollution control, safe seafood practices and responsible fishing have facilitated extensive global policy changes grounded by their tireless scientific research and reporting. La Mer is proud to support the continued growth and development of Oceana and honored to celebrate the fifth year of a dedicated partnership.
Over the course of the past five years, La Mer has donated over half a million dollars globally towards Oceana’s sea expeditions, studies and preservation efforts. La Mer’s $200,000 World Oceans Day donation in 2010 will support Oceana’s habitat protection campaign and will also help heighten awareness for their recent global expansion in Belize. The opening of Oceana’s new office there highlights their ability to identify and address areas in need of attention and whose health holds great importance in promoting the future wellbeing of the marine ecosystem.
Oceana CEO Andrew Sharpless explains, “Because Belize has the second largest Barrier Reef in the world and is one the jewels of the sea, anybody who thinks about the world's oceans from a global perspective thinks about Belize. In late June, UNESCO added the Belize Barrier Reef to the UNESCO list of endangered World Heritage sites. With our new Oceana offices and local Belizean leaders, Oceana is focused on helping Belize to protect its incredible marine heritage and resources. I’m confident that in three or four years we’ll look back and say, ‘we made a difference for the oceans and for Belize.”
Oceana Spokeswoman January Jones participates in the World Oceans Day dive sponsored by La Mer
World Oceans Day Dive
In 2009, The United Nations made World Oceans Day an official global holiday. To anniversary this and share the experience of Oceana’s extraordinary work, La Mer will sponsor a deep-sea dive in Belize with Oceana Spokeswoman January Jones. A passionate sea advocate and distinguished actress, January has been working with Oceana to raise awareness and help educate the public about ocean issues and ways to get involved.
La Mer Goes Blue
A classic icon of beauty since its creation – the Crème de la Mer jar will “go blue” for World Oceans Day 2010, marking the first time any change has ever been made to the look of its symbolic jar since originally designed by Dr. Max Huber. La Mer President Maureen Case explains, “The heritage of our brand is really founded in the classic emblem of our signature product, Crème de la Mer. Historically, La Mer has never made any alterations to the original jar, logo, color or design created by Dr. Max Huber until now. We are so proud to do so in celebration of this five-year partnership with Oceana as it harkens back to the core of what La Mer is all about – The Sea.” The limited-edition 100 ml “blue” Crème de la Mer jar is available in limited quantities and will be sold globally in the month of June in celebration of World Oceans Day.
World Oceans Day
Created in 1992 and made official by the United Nations in 2009, World Oceans Day takes place annually on June 8th and is a day to recognize the sea’s importance as a vital ecosystem and take action to preserve its delicate habitats and wildlife. With over 300,000 members in 150 countries, Oceana’s science-based policies have greatly reduced over-fishing and protected threatened marine habitats.
For more information about World Oceans Day and the partnership between La Mer and Oceana, please visit www.lamer.com/oceana.
La Mer’s limited-edition 100 ml World Oceans Day Crème de la Mer will be available at select Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman and www.lamer.com beginning in May 2010.
I was so happy to see the news reported on Blogdorf Goodman blog about the US launch of Jill Stuart beauty line. After almost a year of speculation, Jill Stuart cosmetics has finally made its debut at the Jill Stuart SoHo boutique in New York City earlier this month. For the US fans of this beauty line, this is a dream comes true.
Currently, only selected makeup products are available in the store. Phone order service is available for customers that live outside of New York City.
Here is the contact information of the Jill Stuart SoHo boutique.
Please get ready to celebrate fashion with Vogue Fashion's Night Out tomorrow!
Joined with the city of New York, and the CFDA, Fashion's Night Out is a global fashion celebration on September 10th thrown by American Vogue. 12 other international editions of Vogue, including UK, Greece, Italy, Russia, France, Brazil, India, Spain, China, Germany, Japan and Taiwan, participate in this global fashion festivities to help restore consumer confidence, promote the retail industry, and celebrate fashion.
Vogue Fashion's Night Out will be led by 13 fashion capitols in these countries. Participating retailers and local boutiques will also coordinate campaigns and special events across these countries. In the US, stores will be open late until 11 pm.
Here are some highlights of Fashion's Night Out beauty events in NYC:
La Mer
For the first time ever, Robin Shandler, Executive Director of Global Product Development, The Max Huber Research Labs, will be on hand to personally answer questions while guests enjoy signature La Mer skincare and Skincolor treatments.
The brand’s Color Creator, Lucia Pieroni, will offer makeup consultations at Bergdorf Goodman.
1-8 pm / Bergdorf Goodman@754 Fifth Ave.
Sally Hansen
Sally Hansen will offer complimentary manicures at Tracy Reese boutique with its limited-edition nail colors collaboratively created between Sally Hansen and Tracy Reese in the past seven seasons.
Tracy Reese boutique@641 Hudson St.
Saks Fifth Avenue
Saks Fifth Avenue will offer over 1,000 cosmetic giveaways.
Saks Fifth Avenue New York@611 Fifth Ave.
Jurlique
You get a free full-size cleanser with any purchase of two Jurlique products or more.
Jurlique store@477 Madison Ave. or 436 W. Broadway
There are lots more in NYC and across the US! Check out www.fashionsnightout.com for more detailed information on Fashion's Night Out beauty events!
Part of Sonia Rykiel Summer 2009 Lagoon Collection
I am a water person. I love playing with water. Laying on the seashore to see the open water and listening to the sound of rolling waves at twilight always gives me calm and serenity.
The oceans have always been one of the beautiful inspirations behind cosmetics brands' makeup collections. Season after season, especially in the summers, there have been so many makeup collections inspired by the beauty of our water that accounts for 74% of the Earth's surface.
Nars Tropic Single Eyeshadow
For summer 2009, both Guerlain Summer Splash Color Collection and Sonia Rykiel's Lagoon Collection bring us ocean-inspired colors in sea blue, sun-kissed bronze, lush coral and white shimmer. Nars summer 2009 collection is another beach-toned makeup collection. Among these collections, I am particularly dazzled by Single Eyeshadow Tropic (in silver-flecked teal), which is created by Nars Creative Director François Nars to capture the reflective and rolling waves of the tropical oceans.
Left: La Baleine Blanche Right La Baleine Bleue
(From Chantecaille Spring 2009 La Baleine Collection)
Chantecailleis one of the cosmetics brands dedicated to raise the awareness of environmental issues. In spring 2009, Chantecaille launched two limited-edition compacts, La Baleine Bleue eyeshadow trio and La Baleine Blanche illuminating face powder trio embossed with the images of a blue whale and calf. Five percent of the proceeds from the sale of the two compacts goes to International Union for Conservation of Nature(IUCN) to help protect the high seas.
While June as the National Oceans Month is slowly coming to the end, I can't help but wonder how we can help protect our precious oceans.
If you are interested to learn more about our oceans and how we can preserve the ecosystems, head over to The Reef Tank's Community Blog that I recently started reading.
La Mer has partnered with the international ocean advocacy organization Oceana for the second year to raise awareness of ocean conservation. In honor of World Oceans Day on June 8th, La Mer has designed a limited-edition 250ml "World Oceans Day" Crème($745 USD), which is sold at Saks Fifth Avenue stores and the US website of La Mer from May to June. 100% of net proceeds will be donated to Oceana to help fund Oceana's Habitat Protection Campaign and 2009 Ranger Expedition.
Check out www.lamer.com/oceana for more information about World Oceans Day and the collaboration between La Mer and Oceana.
A couple of weeks ago, I went on a short trip to New York City. I didn't have much time for shopping during the trip, but I still arranged to visit the Saks Fifth Avenue flagship store for Dolce & Gabbana's new makeup line. Unfortunately, at that time, Dolce & Gabbana's cosmetics counter wasn't ready for business. It was such a pity that I couldn't see this new line in person when I was in Manhattan.
Having missed the chance to try out this new makeup line, I was thrilled to see my fellow blogger, PJ of A Touch of Blusher, post her thoughts on Dolce & Gabbana's makeup line on her blog the other day. As the brand has been launched in UK recently, PJ just got to visit its counter and test out the products at the Selfridges department store in London. Her post provides a first-hand perspective on the launch collection of Dolce & Gabbana The Make Up. Head over to her post and read more about it!
Dolce & Gabbana The Make Up is now available at www.dolcegabbanamakeup.com. You can view the entire lineup for face, eyes, lips and nails on its official website.
The website is thoughtfully designed and user-friendly. It offers concise product information (including description, formula and application), 3D product view images, and swatches for individual products. I enjoyed browsing through the website very much.
I will have a short trip to New York City next week. I am not sure if Dolce & Gabbana The Make Up is available at Saks Fifth Avenue on Fifth Avenue though. I am looking forward to seeing the line in person.
I had a post about Dolce & Gabbana's new makeup line previously. Today's post is an update on the debut of Dolce & Gabbana's makeup line. I'm pretty sure you are not unfamiliar with this luxury Italian fashion house, Dolce & Gabbana, for their ultra-feminine fashion design as well as their recent feud with Giorgio Armani. Now, they just debuted their makeup line, Dolce & Gabbana The Makeup, at La Rinascente department store in Milan this February in an attempt to expand their empire. According to Wall Street Journal, this new makeup line is set to be launched at Saks Fifth Avenue (Beverly Hills, LA and Fifth Avenue, NYC) in the US next month.
Part of Dolce & Gabbana The Makeup Line
While I flipped through the March issue of Vogue magazine two weeks ago, I saw the ad campaign of Dolce & Gabbana The Makeup with their spokewoman, Scarlett Johansson. The makeup items in gold metal packagings definitely have their signature glamorous and luxurious vibe. I look forward to seeing the line in person!
Promo Image of Dolce & Gabbana The Makeup
Have you tried Dolce & Gabbana The Makeup or shopped at its cosmetics counters? I would love to hear your thoughts! :)
Jill Stuart Beuaty is coming to town! It was reported on Wall Street Journal last September that this coveted brand will come to Jill Stuart stores in the US this March. However, according to Elle News Blog, it has been confirmed that Jill Stuart cosmetics will debut in late spring or early summer at Jill Stuart’s flagship store in SoHo district of New York City.
Jill Stuart Mix Blush Compact
Jill Stuart Beauty has started a licensed business with Kosé Corporation since 2005 in Japan. It was launched in Taiwan in 2007 and in Hong Kong last year. The line consists of around 140 products, and is currently only available in Asia.
Jill Stuart Eau de Toilette
Starting out young, Jill Stuart has earned high popularity in Asia. It is largely due to the good reputation for quality and its girly and feminine take on makeup colors along with its vintage and princessy packaging design. It definitely has become a popular beauty destination for girls who dream to own beautiful cosmetics, not only to make themselves look prettier but also to decorate their vanity places.
I know many of you from the US who have eagerly anticipated the arrival of this cosmetics line must be disappointed by the delayed release. The same with me. But I am glad that the Jill Stuart company provided some updated information on the US debut. I just have to wait a little longer...
Scarlett Johansson as New Face of Dolce & Gabbana's Makeup Line [Photo credit:WWD]
Dolce & Gabbana is the latest fashion house to join the cosmetics industry. Dolce & Gabbana is famous for its glamorous and ultra-feminine designs. The fashion duo has collaborated with famed makeup artist Pat McGrath to transform their opulent and sexy style into their makeup line.
Stefano Gabbana told WWD: "We see makeup as another thing for women, like a dress. We worked on the makeup line like we work on a clothing collection — you can change makeup like you can change your clothes, depending on your mood."
Italian Fashion Designers Domenico Dolce (Right) and Stefano Gabbana (Left) [Photo credit: www.reuters.com]
The packaging of the new line is in shiny gold with round edges. The colors were inspired by vivid blues from the Mediterranean, the dark burgundy shade of dahlia (Gabbana's favorite flower), and gold and black from volcanic island Stromboli (where the duo likes to stay for summer vacation.)
Part of Dolce & Gabbana's Makeup Line [Photo credit:WWD]
The makeup line of Dolce & Gabbana is positioned as a high-end brand. The price will range from nail lacquers for $20, mascaras for $28, lipsticks for $30, eye shadow duos for $36, and to finish powder foundation for $59.
Dolice & Gabbana's makeup line is in its initial launch stage. The makeup items are set to be unveiled at La Rinascente Milan Flagship in late January, then arrive at Selfridges (of London) and Saks Fifth Avenue (in Beverly Hills, LA and Fifth Avenue, NYC) in March. Saks has the exclusive distribution in the US for spring.
I remember Calvin Klein relaunchedits cosmetics line about the same time last year. US fashion label Rock & Republic also launched Rock & Republic Cosmetics last September. I am glad to see more and more fashion brands join the cosmetics market, and promote the diversity and growth in the cosmetics industry.
Hi all, I am currently blogging from Taiwan. One of the fun things I love to do here is shopping at 7-Eleven. You might wonder what's the big deal about 7-Eleven. The convenience store culture in East Asia is different than what you'd find in the US. The 7-Eleven stores here in Taiwan are marketed in a different way than the ones in the US. Thus, it has a totally different vibe in Asia than in the US.
Beauty Section at a Random 7-Eleven Store in Taiwan
Orginally, 7-Eleven was established in the US in 1927. Now, it has become the major convenience store chain in many Asian markets. 7-Eleven stores open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you know the history of 7-Eleven, these stores used to open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m, thus the name 7-Eleven. However, they revolutionized the concept of convenience store by establishing 24-hour stores.
In Taiwan, the 7-Eleven stores provide services from foods and drinks to newspaper/magazines, office supplies, skincare/makeup products, photocopying/fax services, bill paying services, and delivery/pick-up services. I always like to pick up ready-to-eat food (something like TV dinner) like bento box or Japanese maki rolls for lunch while I shop for beauty magazines in the store.
Beauty Section at a Random 7-Eleven Store in Taiwan
The pictures shown are images of the beauty section in a random 7-eleven store in Taipei, Taiwan where you can find DHC, Maybelline, Burt's Bee, Mentholatum, Herbacin...etc. The stores are usually very tidy and clean, and the customer service is friendly. Given the limited store size, the beauty products do not come in a wide selection in terms of brand and color variety. And, as usual, the prices might be higher than what you can find at drugstores or retail chain stores. But all in all, the beauty merchandise is carefully selected to best suits the demands and tastes of local shoppers in a reasonable price range.
Do you also like to shop at convenience stores? Is there anything special about your local convenience stores?
Brazilian supermodel Giesele Bündchen will be the newest face of MAX Factor, which will celebrate its 100th anniversary next year. Giesele signs with MAX Factor to replace Carmen Electra who had a three-year deal with the brand.
MAX Factor will unveil this Brazilian bombshell showcasing its makeup line beginning Sept 18, 2008 on its website. And, we will see her appear in the ad campaigns for MAX Factor's Lipfinity Lip Collection and ColorGenius Face Collection starting next month.
Giesele Bündchen New Face of MAX Factor
[Photo credit: AP]
Does it mean the company's aims towards a modern, dynamic, and fashion-forward edge? I am looking forward to seeing the new product ranges, makeup color styles and ad campaigns MAX Factor will bring to us as Giesele fronts this brand.
I am a big fan of La Mer and would like to salute their effort to support ocean conversation. This is a latest news about their effort.
"In celebration of La Mer’s sea heritage and dedication to preserving the beauty of the oceans, this month La Mer will donate $100,000 to Oceana to help fund global initiatives and support their mission of ocean conservation.
[Photo credit: www.oceana.org/north-america]
Oceana, the largest international ocean advocacy group, is supported by marine scientists, economists, lawyers and advocates worldwide that work strategically to deliver targeted results. Oceana’s lead spokespeople include Ted Danson, Amber Valletta and Sam Waterston. With La Mer’s donation, Oceana will be able to increase research voyages on their Ketch catamaran, Ranger, and better patrol, document, and fight destruction of the ocean’s unique ecosystem."
Visit here for Crème de La Mer's tips for how we can help protect the world's oceans.
From a customer's point of view, part of the fun of shopping for beauty products is receiving extra free sample packages, whether they are gift-with-purchase or simply free-of-charge. From a company's sampling strategy, it is all about getting the customers to consider its products. It builds a relationship with customers, and give customers time to choose the right product(s) that works for them.
Who doesn't love beauty samples? Sampling is the best way I get to explore new lines or products and find out something suitable for my skin type. I love beauty sample(s) for their cute miniature packaging that are convenient for use during traveling. As a makeup lover, those cute or special design sample containers become part of my makeup collection too. What about you? Do you also like to collect small sample containers?
Ad Campaign of Tom Ford Fall 2011 Makeup Collection
