Gift Sets on Sales

You know the economy is tanking when beauty gift sets are on sale. I remember as a kid and teenager I used to get so excited for any limited edition beauty gift sets, from Bonne Bell to Bobbi Brown. I used to love to comb the aisles at CVS and the beauty department at Bloomingdale's. I don't think I've ever seen cosmetics -- department store cosmetics -- go on sale. I'm not saying the stores are giving stuff away, but if you need little gifts for girlfriends, or teenage daughters with upcoming birthdays, you can't go wrong with the Clinique Super balm lip sets or Bobbi Brown's lip tint sets. 

Pucker up! 

A Touch of Luxe

This holiday season indulge yourself and your friends with soothing products at Bath and Body Works. I really like their shea cashmere line. The hand cream and body cream are delicious and do a nice job to soften the skin.

M.A.C says enjoy 25% OFF their current holiday collections.

Available at any M.A.C retail store, department store or on maccosmetics.com

Kiehl's Yummy Vanilla Lip Balm

Lips dry? If you like Kiehl's lip balms, you might enjoy one of their latest flavors: coconut, mango or vanilla.

I enjoyed coconut when I smeared it across my parched lips. But I loved vanilla.

 Kiehl's sells many lip balms, but some of them are too fruity for me. 

Space NK Stocking Stuffers

FREE SHIPPING!

Need a new lipstick or mascara?

Free shipping at Sephora through 12/8/2008 ...

Code: SHOPNOW

Happy Shopping!

Bluemercury Beauty Party

Also, don't forget tonight is a beauty and party night at bluemercury at 84th and B'way. 

I say skip the tree lighting and support your neighborhood shops.

Soapy Gifts Galore

This holiday season stay merry and healthy with Kiehl's hand soaps. Buy one for yourself or shower friends and family with the gift of cleanliness. Kiehl's hand soaps are a fun way to say thanks and remind people about the importance of hand washing this winter.

A wise man once said, "You can never have too much soap."

Friends and Family ... Yes!

M.A.C. Alert

FREE SHIPPING at M.A.C.

ALL PURCHASES

ENDS TOMORROW

CODE: 4DAY

Kudos to Carrie

I've just discovered a great place for holiday shopping: Bryant Park, New York, NY.

Scott and I were in the park Wednesday afternoon, enjoying the scene and a sandwich, when I stumbled upon a booths with great gifts for the young and creative.

There were earrings and necklaces, paper goods and baby gifts. I bought myself a pair of purple teardrop earrings ($19) from designer Carrie Saxl. I also liked the pretty journals and pencil cases ($12).

You can find Carrie's designs at Booth #C03. This booth is located near 6th Avenue. I always like supporting local designers and artists.

Cole Haan

New Coupons for Thanksgiving!

Keep it Simple

I'm always skeptical of facial wipes because they usually sting my face. Also, they often leave a yucky film on my skin. But recently I was introduced to Simple's facial wipes. They are all the rage in the U.K.  You can buy them in New York at Duane Reade. They are great for sensitive skin because they have no perfumes, dyes, or oil and they are alcohol-free. But they still remove eye makeup. Oh yeah, they're budget-friendly at $5.99 a package. Can't beat that.

More Deals! More Discounts!

Kiehl's Friends and Family

We're in a recession -- no matter what Paulson says ... time to go shopping... or at least make yourself feel better with yummy products for yourself and your friends.

BlueMercury Beauty Party

*HOLIDAY SHOPPING PARTY*

10% OFF PURCHASES $100 OR MORE

15% OFF PURCHASES $175 OR MORE

20% OFF PURCHASES $250 OR MORE

*UPPER WEST SIDE*

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3RD, 2008

212.799.0500

4-10PM

no invite needed

bring a friend or your mom

What's that wonderful, cozy smell?

The perfect holiday décor, enriched with warm, comforting fragrance.

Slatkin & Co. is pleased to introduce a holiday collection replete with whimsy and charm. The Perfect Christmas Collection includes four wonderful fragrances to scent your home, all inspired by traditions of years past – Spice, Tree, Winter, and the return of Frosted Cranberry.

All of these items are available at Bath and Body Works stores and via bathandbodyworks.com.

Take a Whiff

Looking for something to do this weekend?

Follow your senses to the Bloomingdale's Fragrance Fair...

Spend $100 or more, receive a free umbrella

This event is taking place at all Bloomingdale's

Friday Nov. 21, Noon- 6pm

Saturday, November 22, Noon-6pm

Smashbox Sizzles!

Have fun with Smashbox this holiday season. T'is the season for gift-giving on a budget.

What's not to like about this smashing success? Six glosses for $29!

Now that's a deal! Give one to your sister-in-law and your co-worker.

The lip gloss collection includes the following glosses:

Ravishing|shimmery rosy nude

Lovely|shimmery soft pink

Stunning|shimmery bright pink

Illume|pale nude with iridescence

Radiant|shimmery pink plum

Candid|pink with golden shimmer

I Have a Dream

Today we celebrate a brilliant man and his amazing family. Our country is headed in a new direction.

Congratulations to President-elect Barack Obama and our soon-to-be First Lady Michelle. 

M.A.C. ONLINE

Introducing M.A.C.'s new lip kits.

M.A.C. is offering a combo of lipsticks and glosses and brush sets. Brush sets are wonderful because they are great for travel. I saw these kits at the M.A.C. store on Columbus Ave. in New York City. 

I'm trying not to spend money these days or else I could have been convinced to buy one. Also, for some random the reason, the store was smelly.

Oh well. Bad news for M.A.C., good news for my wallet.

 

Holiday Kits are Here

Here's a holiday kit that has my name all over it ... From Trish McEvoy comes a delicious and delightful trio of beauty booster glosses.

*Sexy Nude

*Brighten pink

*Brighten cherry

$45 (includes red pouch)

Also, on the right, one of M.A.C's limited edition brush sets... just love the holiday season for the greatest beauty buys.

A Breakfast for Champions

Good morning! I'm so proud of my breakfast I had to post on it.

As you can see I had a small portion of raspberries and a cheesy egg. 

I used two eggs, a pinch of salt and pepper and two sprinkles of shredded cheese.

Total prep time: 5 minutes

Total enjoyment: Priceless

M.A.C. ONLINE

***M.A.C. COSMETICS***

FREE SHIPPING on all purchases THROUGH OCTOBER 25TH

**NO CODE NECESSARY**

BLUEMERCURY EVENTS

Bobbi Brown: Chic Shimmer Makeup Event
Friday, October 24th & Saturday, October 25th

Laura Mercier: Velvet Luminosity Makeup Event
Friday, november 7 & Saturday, November 8

Space is limited:
Upper West Side 212.799.0500
2305 Broadway
B'wteen W. 83rd & W. 84th

TAI LIP SHINE

Looking for a new fall lip shade? Check out this sexy bronze-y gloss from Three Custom Color Specialists. 

Three Custom never disappoints. 

But you can't judge the gloss from the packaging. Try it on. Many Three Custom glosses look intense, when really they are more sheer.

*20% of the proceeds of Tai will be donated to the American Diabetes Association.*

By the way, spend $75 and get free shipping...

The 'other' Jessica

Dear readers,

This weekend I had the chance to celebrate my brother's wedding. It was a great weekend, and the most magnificent ceremony I have ever seen. 

Everyone, especially the Garret's bride Jessica looked radiant - smashing really.

One reason for everyone's glow -- the other Jessica. 

That's Trish McEvoy makeup artist extraordinaire. 

Jessica D'Agostino (see right).

There's nothing like having your hair and makeup done to lift your spirits and make you shine. Plus when a professional does your makeup and hair, it's one less thing you need to worry about, especially when under a time crunch.

When hiring a makeup artist, it is very important to find someone who will listen to you.  If he or she doesn't, don't hire them for your special day. Just don't.

My sister-in-law Jessica wanted to look very natural on her wedding day -- and she did. I wanted a more sexy look, and Jessica D'Agostino helped me accomplish that. When choosing an artist, don't settle. Also, don't forget about a trial. 

*You* can find Trish McEvoy artist Jessica D'Agostino by calling 201.417.6260

She is the best. 

Some popular Trish products:

1. Flawless concealer

2. Luminizer pen

3. Essential Pencil in Baby Pink

4. Beauty Boosting Gloss in Sexy Nude

5. High Volume Mascara

Looking for Trish products?

NeimanMarcus

Nordstrom

Saks

Bluemercury

Leslie Blodgett is here!

Calling all Bare Minerals junkies.

Meet Bare Minerals guru Leslie Blodgett, today in NYC.

She will be meeting & mixing from 2-4 at the Times Square Sephora.

I met Leslie yesterday and she is a gem. She is a delightful person whose inner beauty matches her pretty face. 

I did a short interview with Leslie that I will be posting later this weekend. I'm a little busy right now because my baby brother Garret is getting married.

Congrats to Garret & Jessica!

Mazel Tov!

JJ, DODD & STARGAZER

Estee Lauder and Executive Compensation

BC-Estee Lauder-Executive Compensation,0339
Estee Lauder CEO Lauder gets $9.1M in compensation
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By BETSY VERECKEY
AP Business Writer
NEW YORK -- Cosmetics company Estee Lauder Cos. paid Chief Executive William P. Lauder $9.1 million in total compensation for the fiscal year ended June 30, up 11 percent from the year before, according to a regulatory filing.
Lauder's pay package included $1.5 million in base salary, flat from a year earlier, the company disclosed in a proxy filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. His bonus increased 41 percent to $3.1 million from $2.2 million a year earlier.
Lauder also received stock options and restricted stock valued at $4.45 million on the days they were granted.
Lauder received $63,623 in other compensation, which includes company contributions to a retirement plan, life insurance coverage and personal use of a company-leased auto or auto allowance.
The Associated Press calculations of total compensation include executives' salary, bonus, incentives, perks, above-market returns on deferred compensation and the estimated value of stock options and awards granted during the year. The calculations don't include changes in the present value of pension benefits, and they sometimes differ from the totals companies list in the summary compensation table of proxy statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
For 2008, the company's earnings rose 6 percent to $473.8 million, or $2.40 per share, from $449.2 million, or $2.16 per share last year. Revenue rose 14 percent to $2.01 billion from $1.76 billion last year.
(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
AP-NY-10-06-08 1911EDT
10-06-2008 23:11UTC / (AP.ny-apm.05a.am-nyny-inwcp02) /

'Ouchless' -- Goody Hair Products Rule!

I am very excited to write about some new hair products from Goody. For years Goody has been a leader in the hair care field. But the latest batch of products -- called 'ouchless' is designed to do just that. The clips and hairbands are extra gentle on the hair. I like the clip to the left. It's made from plastic and rubber and hasn't snagged a hair yet. I have thick hair and this clip seems to hold it fine. Buy your clip at Target, CVS or another mass retailer.

Pearl Glide liner

I am so busy these days.
ABC News, Columbia Journalism School, NPR.

I still love beauty but finding it hard to blog.

So here's a quick update:

I had five minutes to run into the MAC store on Columbus Avenue where I tried out a new creamy kohl-like eye liner, Pearl Glide liner.

The liner has a touch of glitter with a reflective finish. It is very smooth and glides on easily. Long-wearing. 

Available in eight colors.
I like Spare Change for my brown eyes.

1.45g / .05 US OZ
US$14.50

Elizabeth Arden

Right now I am at a CEW event for Elizabeth Arden's Scott Beattie.

Looking forward to hearing from him and trying some product.

Ooh Max Factor!

I just discovered Max Factor makeup, specifically their amazing concealer, Erace. 

(That is not a spelling error. That's how the company spells the product's name.)

I'm using the shade "medium."

It matches my skin perfectly. It covers and conceals beautifully. Did I mention it only costs $5?

Here's the problem. It's hard to find. I went to Walgreens and Rite-Aid before I finally found a small grouping of MF products at Duane Reade. I was excited DR had the products, but I really try and avoid DR whenever possible. I didn't make it to CVS/Pharmacy so I don't know about availability there. But when I checked the CVS.com and searched Max Factor, nothing popped up.

It is also available at drugstore.com and beautyboutique for $3.99.

"Yes I'm black, but I do [the hair] of all women"

It's Fashion Week in New York City, which means a lot of traffic near Bryant Park, and hordes of reporters and photographers trying to snap pictures of celebrities.

Sometimes it's easy to lose sight of some of the bigger picture issues during FW.

But today, when I had the opportunity to interview hair guru Ted Gibson, I decided to start with the tough questions.

I asked Mr. Gibson what challenges he's faced as an African-American in this field. It's fair to say that race is a hot button issue these days even if folks won't admit it.

What do race and style have to do with each other?

Apparently a lot.

Gibson said he often has to remind clients he is not a hairdresser who only does African-American hair. 

In other words, African-Americans can be comfortable with Asian hair and vice-versa. And look around, with the growth of biracial children, more hairdressers will need to work with varying textures of hair.

"I believe in textures of hair and not skin color. Yes, I'm black, but I do [the hair] of all women."

Look around, in other words, you can be dark with straight hair and fair with kinky hair.

 Take actress Debra Messing. Her hair is kinky curly. But she's clearly caucasian.

Gibson says you have to think outside of the box, but too many people want to keep it safe.

Ultimately Gibson says his obstacles will make it easier for the next African-American kid to succeed in this field.

Therapy Systems

I've been meaning to write about Therapy Systems, a skin care line that has greatly improved my skin tone.

You are looking at a picture of their Alpha Beta Treatment cleanser. A friend recommended I try out TS after hearing me complain about various skin concerns. 

I've had some trouble with pimples and skin discoloration. Unfortunately I tend to exacerbate blemishes because I can't keep my hands from my face. I'm a picker. 

But I've found that my reducing zits I am less likely to touch my face. 

This cleanser has helped reduce the incidence of blemishes, specifically in trouble areas, like my chin and the sides of my face. I tend to have repeat breakouts, which are so annoying.

If you are interested in trying TS products, visit the company website. You can order junior sizes of almost every product. Great concept. Like the 'trial aisle' in your local drugstore or superstore. Seriously, why don't more companies do this?

Let me know if there is a product that has helped your skin recover from a rough patch. 

A Letter to My Readers

To my loyal readers,

I'm sorry I've been slow to post the past few weeks. I started a new job at Columbia University and have been swamped. However, I am still passionate about all things beauty -- and I am not ditching the blog. Please don't believe what you read on Page Six. Please look for new blog posts in the coming weeks. Enjoy September!

xoxo BeautyBabe

The Bold and the Beautiful

Have you heard the latest? This Fall it's all about dark, bold lip color.

Dare you say it? Black lipstick. Most of us don't want to wear black lipstick. But there are some wonderful options.

I found one at Blue Mercury, on W. 84th St. It's from Laura Mercier and it's called Black Orchid.
It's a sheer stick gloss -- something in between a lipstick and a lipgloss. I liken it to a sheer lipstick. And the color is buildable. I would have never even selected this lipstick had it not been for Alexis, one of the managers at Blue Mercury. She's a gem - an honest saleswoman who, when she doesn't like something, will tell you. Black Orchid reminds me of a MAC lipstick, Sheer Plum.

Lancôme will also be debuting a dark lip combo product in November--Color Fever Gloss in Piha Black. Priced at $48, it features the black gloss and Color Fever Lipstick in Piha Red. The red lipstick was inspired by the red of a Christian Louboutin sole. Piha is the name of the a beach in New Zealand.

One other option, a Kimiko's dual-ended lip plumpers. These double-sided lip plumpers are basically rich stains with a clear top coat. I really like the Berry color. In fact the last time I wore it, I got multiple compliments. It's definitely edgy, but also feminine.

Olympic Beauty Secrets

American Gymnasts Nastia Liukin, Shawn Johnson and Alicia Sacramone are going to be the new faces of Cover Girl.

I read that Johnson likes CG's Last Blast mascara (orange tube), $7.49 at drugstores.
Click on this link to read a review I did of CGLB a while back.

Cover Girl Lash Blast -- A winner!

Congrats to the trio for the amazing performances in Beijing!

Brad Pitt & Kiehl's Soap Up

I just read that Brad Pitt is teaming up with Kiehl's to create an Aloe Vera Body Cleanser.
100% of net profits go to JPF Eco Systems, a charity that supports global environmental issues.

Kiehl's "Aloe Vera" Biodegradable Liquid Body Cleanser $16.50;
Kiehl's.com

This product goes on sale August 29th

Michael Phelps is NOT a Wallflower!

***Breaking News***

Michael Phelps wins his eighth gold medal in Beijing. To celebrate I'm hooking my readers up with what else, but beauty discounts.

(BTW: Has anyone noticed Silver-medalist Dara Torres' pretty mauve-pink lip gloss? I've seem what appears to be the same shade of gloss in multiple interviews. Not only can she swim, but Torres also has a great sense of style)

Anyway, getting down to business, one of my favorite brands (surely you've read posts about them) Three Custom Color is offering a 10% discount to Product Perfect readers through the first week in September.


Code: PPFALL

The artists at Three Custom Color Specialists have created a great look for fall by adding to the Watercolour for Cheeks line. The new shade is called Wallflower. It is a dewy, shimmery beige that gives cheeks a soft, healthy glow and lips a nude glaze. As soon as mine comes in the mail, I will apply it and take some pictures to show you. But I suspect this one will be a gold medal winner and a makeup bag staple.

$20.50 at boutiques and online

Good News from Kimiko Beauty

Now is a great time to try Kimiko... spend $95 and get free shipping

Code: FREESHIP

Kimiko Beauty

You know when you find a product that just seems to deliver what it promises? Enter Kimiko Beauty. I first discovered this product line at a beauty event at Takashimaya on 5th Avenue. I'll be honest. I was unfamiliar with the brand, but quickly discovered all that I was missing. Right now I am going to highlight one standout product. Tomorrow I will write about the sheer tint lip plumper (see image below).

I've always been a fan of tinted moisturizers, especially in the summer months when skin needs moisture, but often less than in the winter. I really like Kimiko's hydrating tint for several reasons. It is a water-based moisturizer, an SPF 20 with UVA and UVB protection. All those factors are important, especially the high SPF. But what I really likes is the way it blends so easily into my skin. In the past, I've used tinted moisturizers from various beauty lines, including Laura Mercier's tinted moisturizer. It's a great product, and it often gets mentioned in magazines, but I always felt like it needed a bit more moisture. In fact, sometimes I would put on a thin layer of moisturizer before applying LM or mix in a little moisturizer to create more of a milky product. That's why I really like Kimiko. It protects, offers just the right amount of coverage and feels great on the skin. For more info on Kimiko, visit Kimiko Beauty.

Kate Somerville

I finally got my hands on Kate Somerville's Exfoli-kate. Awesome. Pricey ($85). But this enzyme-packed mask is effective and does not strip skin of natural properties. It even has cinammon.

Product Perfect recommends this product.

You can buy it at Henri Bendel's.

Snaps for Lancome

I just realized I posted two pictures without writing anything about the products. Sorry about that. Chalk it up to the heat, or the summertime blues or whatever. Back to beauty for the moment, the above compact is one of my new favorite products. It's a bronzer-blush from Lancome that gives the apples of my cheeks just the right about of popsicle punch. I swirl my blush in the bronzer to play up my tan, then I pick up a little of the coral to give me that healthy glow. You can buy this product online or in Lancome boutiques. But I would act quickly, because the bronzer ($36.50) is part of a limited edition collection. The lip glosses below are part of the same Maharani Jewels fall 2008 collection.
Aren't they regal-looking? I just love Autumn Jasmine ($18)

My Oney has arrived!

My new handbag arrived. I've already gotten several compliments on it. I'm proud of it because I designed it myself online. I got to pick out both fabrics ~ the inside and outside. There are hundreds of designs to choose from, including solids and patterns. And the best part is that the bag is reversible. If you would like to order a personalized bag, visit Oney Bags.
Isn't she lovely?