Dallas Shopping, Sales, Fashion and Trends, Home Decor, Beauty Products, and Dallas Weddings and Brides ShopTalk Blog D Magazine » Beauty

Friday Giveaway: ANSR Anti-Aging & Acne Therapy Beam

Raya Ramsey — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 06:00:10 +0000

I blogged about this bad boy a while back, so if you want to see why I’m giving one away to you, read it here. Now, fill out the form and good luck!

“Pamper Yourself Night” at Mockingbird Station Tonight

Raya Ramsey — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:00:39 +0000

As part of the Station’s Cause for Celebration line-up (”community-oriented events every Wednesday evening during the holidays”), Pamper Yourself Night will feature mini-facials, massages, and hand massages, free with a donation to Genesis Women’s Shelter. The masseurs will be lined up near PURE Dental. (If you choose to pay for a teeth whitening special during the evening, PURE will also donate a portion of the proceeds to Genesis.) Billy Jealousy reps will also be at PURE for the mini-facials. The hand massagers will be located at Michael Raymond Salon, where you can also get make-up touch-ups, some hot chocolate or tea, and a free Aveda shampoo sample with a $5 donation. It’s a night full of minis, but your donation can be mini, too.

What are the Fashion Experts Reading?

Raya Ramsey — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 23:53:26 +0000

Let’s start with Forty Five Ten owner Brian Bolke over at D’s Reading Room. Hint: perezhilton.com’s on his list!

What is the best drugstore powder?

Raya Ramsey — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 23:47:44 +0000

My sister is looking for a new foundation–in powder form–and she wants to stick to the drugstore scene. I must admit, I haven’t used a drugstore foundation in a while. (I’m currently using a mix of MAC and Makeup For Ever.) ShopTalkers, I need your help! What are your favorite foundation products at your local Walgreen’s, grocery store, etc.?

Friday Giveaway: Smashbox Photo Finish

Raya Ramsey — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 06:00:58 +0000

This is my absolute, absolute favorite foundation primer. It’s got this slick silicone-y texture that leaves your face feeling as silky as the models look in Sephora ads. Apply it to your whole face to soften the look of pores and fine lines, and as Smashbox says, to “create a perfect canvas for foundation.” Once you add your foundation, you’ll see a smoother finish and longer-lasting results from your makeup. It’s oil-free, $36, and a winner of beauty awards from Sephora, InStyle, and Marie Claire. (Just in case you don’t believe me.)

*Don’t forget: if there’s something you want to see in your Friday Giveaways, send me suggestions. You can send me an email at raya.ramsey@dmagazine.com or make a comment here

*Update: Forgot to list a link to the form. Fill out the form to enter the contest.

*Congratulations to our three winners!

Is H&M Blowing Us Off?

Raya Ramsey — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 16:51:03 +0000

NBC DFW says maybe.

The Dallas Flea Market Opens Doors Dec. 5

Raya Ramsey — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 23:05:37 +0000

Our very own upscale flea market opens at South Side on Lamar December 5. Made up of rows of Texas-based artists, this flea market will feature all kinds of goodies, like art, home goods, accessories, clothing, furniture, and edible treats. According to the market’s curator, Brittany Edwards, the concept for this flea market was inspired by legendary flea markets in California and New York and will contain a highly edited mix of Dallas’ best jewelry makers, bakers, designers, etc. She’s hoping, she says, to give the public access to some of Dallas’ hidden treasures. So mark your calendars for December 5 and get ready to do some local shopping! Five dollars gets you in the door, and most major credit cards will be accepted. The Dallas Flea. 1409 South Lamar St. www.thedallasflea.com

Hunting for the Perfect Shades with Jennifer Rade

Raya Ramsey — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:31:56 +0000

How do you choose the right sunglasses for your face? We didn’t know, so we asked Jennifer Rade, Angelina Jolie’s stylist and ambassador to new sunglass boutique, ILORI. (She’s pictured left with the head of gorgeous curls.) Here’s what she had to say:

Why did you decide to partner up with ILORI?
I decided to partner with ILORI because the Luxury Sunglass Boutique has its finger on the pulse of trends in both fashion and eyewear, and is a true arbiter of style in both realms. Eyewear is that final piece that finishes off a look, and can be the extra touch of glamour and sophistication, or the edgy accessory that pulls everything together.

What is the trick to finding the right lens shape for your face?
I do feel that analyzing your face shape is a good place for consumers to start when selecting sunglasses, as a more rounded pair of sunglasses can soften a strong jaw line and a more squared style can help add definition to a rounded jaw line. But I don’t feel that face shape is the only factor to choosing the right pair(s) of sunglasses.

The glam Ilori boutique in NorthPark above.

One of the most important things I look for when people try on sunglasses is proportion. Where do the sunglasses lie on the face in relation to the nose, chin, eyebrows and hairline? Are they too wide or too narrow? Do they cover too much of the forehead or not reveal enough cheek bone? The right pair of sunglasses will compliment the face by creating symmetry and not drawing too much attention to any one area.

I suggest using a camera phone and taking pictures of yourself in a variety of sunglasses. That way you can get a more objective view of how they look on your face. I also think it’s important to experiment with different shapes and materials – don’t focus on the idea that only one style suits you. Break out of the rut and try on a bunch of styles!

What are some of the biggest mistakes you see people make selecting/buying/wearing sunglasses?
I have noticed that people have a tendency to just use small mirrors when shopping for sunglasses so people will focus on the face, but ILORI has huge full-length mirrors to help pick out the perfect pair of sunglasses to also compliment wardrobe.

I suggest people try new styles and let go of the idea that there’s just one style or color that will compliment them best. Experiment with color, style and size – you may just surprise yourself. Between wraps, aviators, and over-sized plastics, there’s something for everyone. Make sure to try on a variety of sunglasses when searching for your perfect pair. Have fun and experiment with different colors and shapes. Pick out sunglasses that make you feel your very best, regardless of any rules.

I also suggest that people also consider their skin tone, hair color and even personality when seeking out a new pair of shades.

What is your personal favorite pair of sunglasses?
I am a huge advocate of having a sunglass “wardrobe,” people should own a variety of styles and colors to compliment their outfits, moods and occasions. Plus it’s always great to have one pair for the car, your purse, your briefcase…

My very favorite pairs of sunglasses right now are my grey Chanel and a classic Burberry. I am a big fan of plastics.

Hand Cream Award: Golden Gloves

Raya Ramsey — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 21:38:35 +0000

I have a new hand cream crush. Now, I call it a “crush” because my infatuation with a hand cream is almost always temporary. I rarely find one to which I feel I can make a long-term commitment. And I think we’re all looking for the same thing in a hand cream, right? Super hydrating. Not greasy. Clean scent. So here’s a winner: Golden Gloves by Billy Jealousy, a men’s beauty line. Or, because men hate thinking they’re involved with any sort of beauty product, we’ll say “grooming line.” The scent is subtle, the formula moisturizing, and there’s no greasy aftermath. Places to purchase are plentiful, including but not limited to Barneys, Face Salon, ZaSpa, and Nordstrom at NorthPark. For more, go here.

Faceoff of the Vibrating Mascaras + Friday Giveaway

Raya Ramsey — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:16:34 +0000

This is a long overdue discussion here on ShopTalk: vibrating mascaras. There’s Lancôme’s Oscillation (right), Estée Lauder’s TurboLash (left), Prescriptives MotorEyes, Maybelline’s Pulse Perfection (center), and even a rotating contraption called Spin Lash. Are they gimmicks? Catchy tools employed by marketing departments at cosmetic headquarters everywhere? Follow the jump to get my humble opinion. (And find out what we’re giving away.)

*Update: Congratulations to our six winners!

In short, no. I don’t think these are gimmicks. You know when you wiggle the wand between your lashes before making that upward stroke? Well, that’s what this vibrating motion imitates. And I think it does a better job. I’m actually amazed to see that they create a look more dramatic then non-buzzing mascaras. But you have to have time to practice and get the hang of them. I don’t think these are good for a quick swipe-and-run-out-the-door type of morning. You’ll see other beauty bloggers say similar things. I tested Estée Lauder, Lancôme, and Maybelline. Below is my recap.

Lancôme’s Oscillation, $34: This has a press-and-hold button for vibration on the end the cap with a thin, stiffer brush at the tip of the wand.
Pros: This stuff works major lengthening magic. It made gave my lashes a thick black shiny coat. I felt like I was wearing new lashes.
Cons: This has serious potential to clump. If you’re not very careful, and you make a too-thick swipe, you’re stuck with the damage. Work slow, pay attention, and don’t add too many coats.

Estée Lauder’s TurboLash, $32: The vibrating starts automatically when you pull the wand from the tube. Twist back into tube to turn it off. The brush here is fairly full and soft.
Pros: The fluffy brush gives my lashes volume. After application, it looked like my lashes had doubled in number. The formula is comparable to that of DiorShow, which, if you haven’t tried is a cult classic and for good reason. It also gave my lashes a little curl, which lasted all day.
Cons: It doesn’t have magic in the lengthening process. In terms of length, it works like regular non-vibrating mascara.

Maybelline’s Pulse Perfection, $12: This, too, has a press-and-hold button at the end of the cap. The brush on the wand has a rubbery, flexible finish.
Pros: If you like Maybelline’s Define-A-Lash, this formula feels exactly the same but with newly added vibration effect. This mascara gave me a shiny finish and a hint of a curl that lasted all day without any flaking.
Cons: Because of the brush, this has the potential to do serious clumping, too. I definitely see longer length, but it doesn’t do much for me in the way of volume.

Now, in honor of the experiment, I’d like to continue the opinions. I have six vibrating mascaras to give away—three Oscillations and three TurboLashes—so fill out the form to enter to win. When mascaras have been received and tested, I’d like to get a quick blurb from all of the winners on their opinions of the mascara. Good luck!

*Update: To clarify, I’ll pick six winners and each one will receive either the Oscillation or TurboLash. Make sense?

I’m in Love With My Xtreme Lash Extensions by Michelle Vi

Kristin Hull — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:32:28 +0000

My lashes before...

...and after.

And this ain’t no sleazy fling. It’s full-fledged, all-out love. I wasn’t sure at first that lash extentions were quite my type but after we spent some quality time together I realized they were exactly what I had been looking for all my life. Yes, it took a long time to get them put on – about 2.5 hours BUT I was lying on a comfortable massage-type bed swaddled in cozy blankets the whole time . I’m surprised I didn’t fall asleep but Michelle was so pleasant that we chatted and chatted as if we were old friends. I didn’t realize that she was putting single lashes on (I thought they’d be clusters) until she said, “I’m gonig to count them now to make sure they are even.” She was taking so long counting I wondered what was going on. Was she just a realy slow counter? How long could it take to count to 30 or 40?

The full look. I didn't have any eye make-up on at all!

Finally she said, “Ok, there’s 102 on your left eyelid.” I was shocked! 102? Where was she putting them all? She explained to me that most people have 130-150 lashes on each eyelid and she had glued (with surgery glue that I never smelled or felt or even knew was there) one single extention to most of my lashes. As she went on to count the lashes on the other eye I began to worry that I was going to look like Cher in the seventies but I had told her I wanted them to look natural so I gave her the benefit of the doubt and waited patiently until she was done. When that time came I nervously took the mirror from Michelle and was instantly relieved! They looked fabulous!! For the next few weeks people were asking me what kind of mascara I was wearing and why my lashes were so long and why did my eyes look so good? They looked so natural that no one suspected they were (gasp!) fake. Everyone loved them. Everyone. So now that you’ve heard my love story you probably want the technical details. Here goes: they should last 3-4 weeks and after that will slowly fall off (but for a fee Michelle can fill in the gaps for $55 and you can keep the lashes going indefinitely); you can’t use any oil-based make-up or make-up removers (not a big deal, Michelle carried a great oil-free eyeliner in many colors and oil-free removers can be found at any drug store); yes, you can wear mascara but I never did because I didn’t need to; the cost is $325 for what I got – 100 lashes per eye (but you can just get them on your outer corners or to fill in bald spots or as many or few as you want) . For any other questions, or to make an appointment (she works out of Imagique in Plano) check out her web site.

Friday Giveaway: His and Her Burberry 2009 Special Editions Perfumes

Raya Ramsey — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 16:53:19 +0000

For her, eau de parfum, for him, eau de toilette, but they’re both housed in beautiful Burberry limited edition bottles with glossy fabrics in metallic with a hint of pink and charcoal. (So they’ll look good next to each other on the dresser.) The scents are a “glamorous and festive variation of the classic London line.” Both contain similar notes to the original scents. For women, you’ll find notes of pink pepper, two different roses, cyclamen, and lily of the valley, with a woody, musky feel. For men, you’ll notice lemon, green pineapple, blackcurrant buds, plum, lavender, and woody notes. His-and-her fashion statements are usually pretty lame—think matching tracksuits—unless it’s his and her houses (like Diane von Furstenberg, which is brilliant), but with scents, it’s sexy, right? These two hit shelves this month and cost $84 for her and $70 for him. Fill out the form and good luck.

*Update: Congrats Matt!

Twist on Consignment Shopping: The Ultimate Exchange

Raya Ramsey — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 20:03:12 +0000

I think I like this concept. It’s a little complicated, so I’m going to do less talking and let you read it for yourselves, but here’s the general idea: consign or donate your designer label clothing then shop other’s designer clothing for serious discounts at scheduled shopping events. Interesting, right? Check it the Dallas company at www.theultimateexchange.com.

Trick or Treat Happy Hour and Spa Goodies The Ritz-Carlton Spa

Raya Ramsey — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 18:29:58 +0000

For the first 75 people who reserve a spot, the spa at the Ritz will offer a free happy hour Halloween event, which will include complimentary mini-margaritas, guacamole, gelato, chair massages, make-up consultations, trick-or-treat bags with spa and salon samples, and a 25 percent discount on retail purchases and treatments booked during the evening. We’ve been to these Ritz spa events before, and we’ve told you we love them. They’re worth your while for an hour or two during the week. Thursday, Oct. 29 at 7 pm. Ritz-Carlton Spa.

Tomorrow Night: $500 Gift Bag

Raya Ramsey — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:17:36 +0000

At least, that’s what they’re saying. Don’t forget the Nicole William’s Girl On Top event at The Limited at NorthPark. If you can’t make Wednesday night’s event, there’s another one on Thursday at The Limited Galleria. If you RSVP, you’ll partake in schmoozing with the other Dallas ladies that have come to participate, free Girl On Top cocktails for three hours, career advice from author of Girl On Top, Nicole Williams, and a 40 percent discount off The Limited’s new business wear. (Yes, yes, and the gift bag.) Both nights run from 6 pm to 9 pm. RSVP here and enter D Magazine in the “How did you hear about GOT?” field. We’ll see you there.

*Update: I was just told gift bags are first-come, first served basis.

Friday Giveaway: NaluWaver

Raya Ramsey — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 15:35:15 +0000

This is the greatest hair tool I’ve ever used in my life. Ever. I love it so much that I got in touch with the media relations person the day after I first used to see if I could get one to give away to one of you. The good news is she said yes. So I present this to you, ShopTalkers: The Nalu Waver, which as you can probably guess is for making waves. (The good kind—in your hair.) Nalu, is Hawaiian for wave, by the way, which is guess means the name is a bit redundant: wave waver. I digress. This iron looks like a double-barreled curling iron, but without a clamp. It heats up instantly and lets you choose the temperature, but it makes it easy for you by giving you hair texture options: thin, normal, thick, and coarse. To use, basically, you put a glove on the hand handling the hair (rather than the one holding the tool) and you wrap figure-eights with your hair around the barrels. Sounds complicated, but practice for five minutes, and it’s a piece of cake. I must also tell you this: I am hair-challenged. Big time. Like, I can barely use a flat iron correctly. Seriously. But I spent 20 minutes with this bad boy, and I had an amazing head full of serious waves that lasted through the morning, through the day, through the evening, through drinks at the bar, and remnants were left over the following morning. So, trust me, you want one. Fill out the form here to enter, and good luck! NaluWaver, $179.99 by R Session Tools. We’re giving away one. Picture by Sean Cunningham, borrowed from Harper’s Bazzar. NaluWaver pictured after the jump.

Update: Congratulations Amanda!

Minx It Up at Polished in Plano

Raya Ramsey — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 18:22:31 +0000

As of Oct. 15, Polished nail salon, to whom we’ve given a D Beauty award, is also offering Minx. Prices are $55 for nails and $65 for toes, but if you’re a Polished member, you’ll pay $47 and $55 instead.
Thanks, Margaret!

Friday Giveaway: Halloween Treats by Philosophy and MAC

Raya Ramsey — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:40:22 +0000

Get in the spirit. The ghostly kind. The best holiday of the year is here, and we’re honoring it with a festive giveaway of spooky-inspired beauty supplies. We’ll start you off at bath time with Philosophy’s Haunted House set. You’ll get three 3-in-1 multitasking shampoo/shower gel/bubble bath bottles in three scents: black licorice, caramel apple, and pumpkin spice muffin. (So, shampoo, shower gel, and bubble bath in one, but you’ll get the product in three difference flavors. Make sense?) They’re rich and foamy, and the fun scents are a vacation from the usual. Don’t forget not to eat it. Then get prepared for your chilling night out with Cinderfella eye shadow (get it wet for a to-die-for smoky eye), Greasepaint stick in black (with a hint of gorgeous purple glitter), Glimmerglass in Blackfire (a sheer black gloss with violet glitter—as beautiful on as in the tube), a creamy black Glimmerglass gloss in Blackware, and Midnight Media (an almost matte Mattene Lipstick in jet black), all part of MAC’s limited edition Style Black collection. So, three bath products and five MAC products. All treats here, no tricks. Fill out the form to enter. Good luck. To purchase your own, go here for Philosophy and here for MAC.

*Update: Congratulations Kileen!

Minx It Up at Troy Richard Salon

Raya Ramsey — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 20:44:02 +0000

I told you you can get it here. Minx (as seen on Lady Gaga’s nails left) is now being offered at Troy Richard Salon in Frisco, too. Prices for nails will be $45-47 (depending on your choice of a metallic or pattern set) and $52-57 for toes. The Minx application was similarly priced at Annice Spa Studio for $45 per fingernail application. Troy Richard Salon. 214-618-8071 or www.troyrichardsalon.com. Follow the jump to see Minx on nails and toes.

American Apparel Open Call Model Search this Weekend

Stephanie Quadri — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 20:31:34 +0000

American Apparel is looking for models for print ads, online, photo shoots and artistic projects – which currently appear in 20 countries worldwide. If you have the figure to flaunt the brand’s daring duds and have always dreamed of gracing the pages of glossy magazine’s, now’s your chance. Stop by the open call this Saturday, October 17th from 1pm to 3pm at the Mockingbird Station location. Get more details here.

What Does the Color of your Eyeglasses Say About You?

Raya Ramsey — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 19:55:58 +0000

Find out at Occhiali Modern Optics‘ Evening of Color event. So far, here’s what they say: red = outgoing, vigorous, impulsive, blue = wise, conscientious, self controlled, purple = unconventional, witty sensitive, and black = mysterious, dignified, and impressive. (I think black could just mean that you’re either a) boring or b) unaware that frames in color are cool.) If this isn’t enough, you can have your color read by aura Tarot reader Nattacia Zeviar. If you’re still not feeling the vibe, sip on a moodtini chosen to match your mood. Alain Mikli’s colorful and unique eyeglasses will be the star of the night’s events with a Alain Mikli trunk show. While you’re in the store, you can choose some eyewear in fun hues and receive 20 percent off your purchase. The event is free. For info, call 214-368-2777. Thursday, Oct. 15. 6 pm to 8:30 pm. Occhiali Modern Optics, Preston Center Plaza. 8304 Preston Center Plaza Drive, University Park. Now we’ve got sunglasses and eyeglasses covered.

*I clearly should have checked our own blog. Sorry, Rhonda.

Scent Selection: Flora by Gucci

Raya Ramsey — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 19:46:24 +0000

This new(ish) scent from Gucci is delightful and feminine. Notes include rose, osmanthus flowers, peony, sandalwood, and patchouli, which Gucci describes as being “sensual and sophisticated” and “sexy” and “youthful.” I immediately think of “lovely,” which I suppose is what Sarah Jessica Parker wants you to think when you smell her perfume, but I think it with this one, too. The simple octagonal bottle with black ribbon tie is as clean as the scent, both inspired by Gucci’s classic Flora print, originally designed as a scarf for Princess Grace of Monaco in 1966. You can find the print on the inside of the perfume box. $52 for the 1 oz. bottle at most department stores.

La Mer’s “Ten Reasons to Believe” Free Event at Neiman Marcus NorthPark

Raya Ramsey — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 22:43:24 +0000

What makes La Mer the Manolo Blahnik of the skincare world? Book an appointment with the La Mer team at Neiman Marcus NorthPark to find out. You’ll enjoy a signature La Mer skincare and skincolor treatment while learning more about the line. You’ll meet with Loretta, La Mer’s senior vice president of the Product Development and Innovation team. Appointments are available between 11 am and 2 pm, but call now to reserve your free spot. 214-363-8311, ext. 2533.

Shop for the Cure: En Pointe Skin Solutions

Raya Ramsey — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 20:51:02 +0000

Founder Dr. Christine Rodgers (surgeon to be exact) is actually a breast cancer survivor herself. Her experience, in fact, is what led her to create En Pointe Skin Solutions. Her products aim to combat the damaging effects of cancer, chemo, and stress on the skin. But this line isn’t for cancer patients and survivors only. The line targets everyday damage, too, with a collection of gentle and clarifying cleansers and toners, eye cream, microderm scrub, serums, and a moisturizer. All products are free of parabens, phthalates, phyto-estrogens, soys, and sulfates. This month 10 percent of every purchase will be donated to Cancer and Careers, a nonprofit which supports working women with cancer. I have had the opportunity to test out the Balancé Clarifying Cleanser and Pirouette Bamboo Microderm. Both feel good, smell fresh, and leave my skin feeling fresh, clean, and a little livelier. To check out the line go to www.empoweryourskin.com. You can sample a trio of products for FREE by signing up on the website here.

Friday Giveaway: Renée Rouleau Mint Buffing Beads

Raya Ramsey — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 05:00:14 +0000

In honor of the grand opening of the Dallas Center for Performing Arts, Renée has given us a bunch of her Mint Buffing Beads to give away to you. You know how we feel about Renée Rouleau’s products by now, but I can tell you that this exfoliator, specifically, is great. The formula has a fine, grainy feel, but the beads are spherical to prevent tiny nicks in the skin’s surface. It also includes Vitamin K for capillary repair, and peppermint oil to reinvigorate the skin. I love using it twice a week after removing makeup and washing my face and following with my regular serum/moisturizer routine. Through Oct. 18, Renee is offering a special facial to commemorate the Grand Opening, too. (For details, see after the jump.) You know the drill: the fill out the form, good luck, all that jazz. There will be 14 winners.

*Update: Congratulations to our 14 winners!

Her La Visage Extraordinaire includes a Bio Visage Lifting Facial, Eye Zone Treatment, Smoothing Hand Treatment, champagne, pastries, and a jar of Renee Rouleau Mint Buffing Beads for $285. For an appointment in Dallas, call 214-735-4364. For Plano, 972-378-6655.

Polish Pick: Orbis Non Sufficit

Raya Ramsey — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 16:03:07 +0000

This polish is new from Rescue Beauty Lounge and part of the blogger polish collection, which I mentioned before. Now that I’ve gotten my hands on this bottle, or rather this bottle on my hands, I can tell you it’s a beauty. I’ve been on a mad hunt for a gem of a green, and I haven’t been able to find one fall-ish enough. The No More War, though I loved it, was a bit too baby-poop-ish. The Here Today Aragon Tomorrow, part of the new España collection from OPI, was slightly too black. This green, as Goldilocks would say, is just right. Get your Orbis Non Sufficit from Rescue Beauty here. $18. Follow to jump to see the color on fingernail.
This picture courtesy of the polish’s designer, blogger for The Polish Addict.

Estée Lauder’s New 5-Tone Shimmer Powder

Raya Ramsey — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 17:25:29 +0000

I’ve got a thing for these highlighting palettes because they’re such multitaskers. I rarely wear the same product on a consistent basis, because I’m always trying new things and wanting to wear new colors, but I’ve been using Estée’s 5-Tone Shimmer Powder in “Pink Shimmer” for almost three weeks almost every day. That’s a big deal for me. On cheeks it gives you a radiant flush in a sweet pink color. You can apply tons of it, and this silky pearl formula won’t make you look like a glitter ball. On eyes it’s a beautiful brow highlighter. Estée even suggests wearing it as a highlighter for shoulders and décolletage. Get this $36 treasure at any Estée Lauder counter. (And by the way, this image doesn’t do it justice. It’s much prettier in person.)

Shop for the Cure: Sanítas Skincare PeptiDerm Eye Treatment

Raya Ramsey — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:06:00 +0000

Sanítas is a line created in Boulder, made by pharmacists. PeptiDerm Eye Treatment is formulated to target the signs of aging around the eyes. Key ingredients in the treatment include Acetyl Glutamyl, which relaxes the muscles around the eyes, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 and Oligopeptide to stimulate collagen and elastin growth, and Red Algae, which serves an anti-inflammatory to decrease eye puffiness. I haven’t tried this line yet myself, but I can’t think of a better time to try an eye cream than right now, during the month of October. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the line is donating a portion of all the proceeds from this particular product to Sense of Security, a Colorado charity, which helps breast cancer patients who are in financial need. I think the real anti-aging will come from knowing you’re helping someone else, but it surely can’t hurt to undo your crows’ feet while you’re at it. Grab one at Bella Vita Rejuvenation Center or Luxury on Lovers.

To do more shopping for the cure, check out our gift guide.

Dallas Bag Designer Bobby Schandra Unleashes His Fall Collection Online

Raya Ramsey — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 21:38:51 +0000

The new arrivals feature gorgeous bags like the Faux Croc Hobo in purple (delicious!), the Animal Print Square Tote, and the eelskin bags, one featured left in brown. What better way to support local designers than by toting a beautiful bag around town? Go to AccessorySnob.com for discounted prices on even the newest styles. And if you’re not looking for a bag, check out the jewelry, like the fun purple cocktail ring and oversized watches after the jump.

The Soy of Life Skincare Line Nurtures Naturally

Kristin Hull — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 21:00:40 +0000

We drink soy milk and burn soy candles so why not use it on our skin? Sound weird? Maybe. But doesn’t anything new sound weird at first? Microwaves? The internet? Rotating mascara? It never hurts to give something innovative a try. The folks at The Soy of Life, a skin care company that offers products chock full of vitamin E-rich soy, some of the world’s finest botanicals, and therapeutic grade essential oils, truly believe in the regenerating and rejuvenating properties of these natural ingredients. I like their Grace Your Face cleanser and toner ($25 for a 4 oz. bottle). Not only do I save money buying just one product instead of two but it removes make-up, dirt and oil while improving skin’s health and appearance. And since it is concentrated it will last a long time; you’ll only need 2-3 drops per use. So get into The Soy of Life groove and, as they say, nurture with nature.