beauty girl musings

simple ways to wear Pantone Marsala

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Thu, 22 Jan 2015 00:50:00 +0000

bonjour, beauties! the first month of the new year is almost over ~ can you believe it? if you didn't notice, i took a bit of a break... hope your 2015 is going well for you thus far!

in any case, i'm sure by now you've heard that Marsala is the Pantone 2015 color of the year. described as a stirring and flavorful shade for apparel and accessories that is flattering against many skin tones, this shade, appealing to men and women, encourages color creativity and experimentation; if you're like me, you've already adopted it. it's a fab go-to color in your beauty routine as well; you can highlight your cheeks and eyes in Marsala, give the perfect pop of color on nails and lips, and will make a great tint for your hair as well!

this hue all over the place, beauties, and i hope you you'll have fun with it {btw, one very cool thing i'm loving about this year's color selection is that it's so very close to my daughter's main school color, maroon. she's on the basketball team, so i already have an excuse to incorporate this color into my lifestyle…you know, school spirit. ;) }.

here are some items of inspiration i found across the web...

as perfect examples of how to make Marsala part of any ensemble, Jennie Mai rocks leather pants while and Taylor Swift dons a lady-like handbag.

more examples:

1. Oasis Embellished Textured Lantern Dress
2. Oasis Heart Print Three Quarter Sleeves Top
3. Oasis Plain LS Skater
4. Visible Interest Rainbow Quartz Pendant Necklace by Lumo
5. Jamberry Pomegranate Pop Nail Wraps
6. Jamberry Red Currant Nail Lacquer
7. Jamberry Vintage Deco Nail Wraps
8. Prescriptives Medium U-Pick Refillable Compact (shown: Eye Shadow in Canyon and Campfire, Cheek Color in Wine)

...and here are some items i own:

i found two cropped jackets at Forever 21 {decided to buy the one on the left, and the top, btw}…

this e.l.f blush palette {in dark} is a fabulous example of how Marsala can be incorporated into your beauty game…

and of course, nail polish! pictured: wet 'n' wild Haze of Love {left} and SpaRitual Fall in Love* {right}.

Marsala is a fabulous shade to incorporate drama, but still keeps an earthy, grounded vibe. how will you be making Marsala part of your life in 2015, beauties?

product sent to me by the brand for feature consideration; pics taken by me :)

JINsoon x goop nail polish collaboration

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Sun, 28 Dec 2014 16:30:00 +0000

bonjour, beauties! as we all know, nail polish {and for many, nail art} are an important part of our beauty lifestyles. on the same level, lifestyle blogs and websites that feature and inspire gorgeous ideas, suggestions and how-tos {including nail-related things} are in someway part of daily life.

that said, i'm happy to share details regarding the latest collaboration between the nail polish brand JINsoon and lifestyle brand goop {created by Gwyneth Paltrow}...

"for me, goop has always represented the bes of living and style, integrating simple luxuries into everyday life, which is synergetic with the JINsoon philosophy," Jin Soon Choi says.

so, here are the details:

there are 2 limited edition nail lacquer sets that have been created and each contain must-have colors that easily fit into any polish collection. aptly named Classics 1 and Classics 2, you'll find staple nail lacquers designed to add an elegant touch to fingertips any time of year...

Classics 1
Demure {pale nude} *new to the JINsoon collection
Dul·cet {toffee beige} *new to the JINsoon collection
Risque {black red}

Classics 2
Vanity {hot red} *new to the JINsoon collection
Coquette {true red}
Audacity {deep red}

gorgeous, right?

check out this easy tutorial, created by Jin Soon Choi:

1. apply a base coat.

2. apply two coats of Coquette.

3. using Demure, draw curving lines with a thin brush throughout the nail.
{this look is easy to do, looks great and allows you to use your imagination to create different types of lines!}

4. apply a high-gloss top coat to finish the look and give it extra shine.*

tell me what you think! i am a fan. these polishes apply beautifully and look great on nails. the colors are opaque and wear well {this is so important for me since i don't always have time to change my polish every other day.}

the JINsoon x goop sets are currently available on goop.com

products featured and manicure image courtesy of JINsoon; other pics taken by me :)

add glam & glitter in 2015 with SpaRitual polishes

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Tue, 23 Dec 2014 17:00:00 +0000

with the new year coming up, you may have plans to glam it up by attending a soiree or two. and since new year's eve has never been known for its subtlety, it's "the perfect opportunity to indulge in the glitz and glamour of the holiday season," says Shel Pink, SpaRitual Founder. "these 5 SpaRitual glitters are the perfect complement to ring in the New Year and showcase your personal style for 2015.”

i couldn't agree more: ring in 2015 with glitter!

Shel has graciously shared her 5 must-have glitter polish shades to ring in the new year. each will certainly add flare to your evening {not to mention, seeing a fabulous manicure to complement the dress and heels that you’ve had picked out for months will make the event better, wouldn't you say?} and they're fabulous…

Home, a green glitter

Living, a purple glitter

Beyond Love, a pink glitter

Soul, a yellow glitter

Snow Globe, a white glitter top effect

these polishes allow for you to step away from your go-to nail shades, or enhance them, so venture outside of your usual nail polish and dab your nails in glitter!

visit sparitual.com for more info.

winter beauty: MAC introduces Studio Conceal and Correct

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Mon, 22 Dec 2014 16:30:00 +0000

available online december 23, 2014 and in stores december 26, 2014, the new Studio Conceal and Correct range, features Studio Finish Concealer Duos, highly-pigmeted, complementary pairs that are highly concentrated, yet lightweight, and promise to conceal everything from dark circles, blemishes, moles, birthmarks and even tattoos. also included in the line are Studio Chromagraphic Pencils that can also be used as eyeliner or aid in sculpting the face and body.

MAC Studio Finish Concealer Duo:

NW10/NC20
NW20/NC25
NW25/NC30
NW30/NC35
NW40/NC45
NW45/NC50

MAC Studio Finish Conceal & Correct Duo
Mid Peach/Mid Yellow
Pale Yellow/Pale Pink
Rich Yellow/Burnt Coral
Pure Orange/Ochre

MAC Studio Chromgraphic Pencil
NC15/NW20
NW25/NC30
NC42/NW35

visit maccosmetics.com for more info

tell me: are you as excited for this new collection as i am?!!

info and images courtesy of MAC Cosmetics PR

holiday 2014: beauty gifts under $25

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Sun, 21 Dec 2014 16:30:00 +0000

whether you're on a budget or just have a long list of recipients, it's always a good option to consider gifts that won't break the bank! and in case you're wondering, these gifts are just as fabulous as their luxe counterparts and will be appreciated by the lucky ones who receive them...

Sephora Favorites Give Me Some Lip is a sampler set with coveted glosses, sticks, tints, and lacquers ~ Urban Decay Mini Naked Revolution Lipstick, Nars Deluxe Orgasm Lip Gloss, Buxom Mini Full On Lip Cream in White Russian, Marc Jacobs Mini Lust for Lacquer in Kissability, Deluxe Bite High Pigment Lip Pencil in Meritage, Full-size Smashbox Be Legendary Gloss in Pout

Beauty To Go Mini Gel Effect Collection is fabulous for the gal who is always put together, but in a no-fuss way. the set includes 2 classic shades and a fun glitter: Kensington High Street Gel Effect Nail Polish in Deep Berry, Camden Road Gel Effect Polish in Multicoloured Glitter, Colville Mews Gel Effect Polish in Delicate Nude

Essie Spa Holiday Gift Set includes two pampering products for hands and feet that can be used all year long! leg & foot crème offers extreme hydration with ingredients like royal jelly extract and shea butter, to leave skin feeling soft and supple. intensive hand lotion is formulated with a nourishing blend of coriander and glycerin to help replenish moisture and promises to leave hands soft, smooth and supple.

Maybelline The Nudes Palette is the must-have drugstore palette on every beauty girl's wish list {if they don't already have it, that is…}. every shade is highly pigmented and long-wearing, and can be used to create an endless amount of looks that are wearable on everyone for every occasion.

Carol’s Daughter Marula Curl Therapy Collection 3-Piece Starter Kit : for pampering curls and training them to spiral into long-lasting perfection, this kit features products formulated with super-softening, rich marula oil. includes Marula Gentle Cream Cleanser, Diffusing & Styling Lotion and Softening Hair Mask.

Molton Brown Festive Body Wash Bauble ~ these festive baubles make gift-giving easy. featuring fan favorite Molton Brown scents, these body washes are perfectly sized for travel and of course, any holiday stocking!

tell me: do you stick to a budget when shopping for holiday gifts?

info and images courtesy of featured brands

RoC® Skincare Gift basket + $200 VISA gift card winner!

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Sat, 20 Dec 2014 21:55:00 +0000

and the #RoCBeautyGiveaway winner is…

Megan McGown {@Pinkess1}!!

you're the winner of the fab basket filled with RoC Skincare and $200 VISA gift card! please email me {beautygirlmusings@gmail.com} within the next 24 hours with your contact info {address + phone} to claim your prize and it will be sent ASAP!

thank you to all who entered! stay tuned for the next giveaway…

holiday 2014: last minute gift ideas

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Thu, 18 Dec 2014 16:30:00 +0000

there are so many options for gifts and it can become quite overwhelming. with time for holiday gift buying becoming less and less, getting down to basics are great ways to reduce the stress, but still know you're giving a fabulous gift. these simple products can be spruced up creatively, and if your recipient loves to be pampered, they'll be thrilled when they're unwrapped!

use pretty bows and notecards to gift highly effective {not to mention pampering} Lumene skincare products {i recommend the Bright Now line and Time Freeze looks great too}!

use candy canes to match her mani and the Salon Clip Bow from Scunci!

you can always let the glosses do the talking! the Smashbox amazing Be Legendary Lip Glosses in holiday colors {with or without sparkle} should do the trick.

if she's not a gloss gal, these Sun Bum lip balms are a beautiful option!

for the one on your list who loves to smell good...Soap & Paper Factory Solid Perfume in Bella would be a great choice. it makes the perfect gift since it travels well and can be tossed into any handbag. this hand-poured scent is created with jojoba oil and pure beeswax with notes of bergamot, grapefruit and black pepper, it's described as uplifting and citrusy, but you can find it in other formulations on their website. {SoapandPaperFactory.com}

last but not least…gift a not-so-basic Conair hair brush, but glam it up to make her daily mane-keeping ritual a bit more special.

you can find all of these products online and in stores now. happy shopping!

info and images provided by representatives of the brands featured.

holiday 2014: Mally Beauty Gift sets

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Thu, 18 Dec 2014 01:23:00 +0000

{singing} it's the most wonderful time of the year…

still need more gift ideas? i have some fabulous gems for you to consider from Mally Beauty!

if there was ever a beauty brand to give {or gift to yourself} that would be loved, it's the brand Mally Rancal heads up. her products are amazing, formulated to last while making its user look and feel beautiful. we follow each other on Twitter and the woman is fabulous! currently, she's boasting her festive flair and it's so contagious {check out her Instagram, too}.

for the holidays, her gift sets are {as Mally would say} gorgois ~ from rich and colorful eyeliners to maximum-shine lipsticks packaged in trendy bags, they're sure to be the hit of the season...

Mally Beauty Evercolor Starlight Waterproof Eyeliner Set:

light up your eyes with this set of liners in festive shades. the budge-proof, waterproof eye liner glides on smoothly and effortlessly, while delivering rich color. accompanied with a chic metallic bag, you’ll look gorgois even on the go.

Mally Beauty Mally Golden Rule of Beauty 5-Piece Collection with Clutch Bag:

achieve a flawless, luminous look for lip to lashes with this coordinated five-piece kit! add a sheer layer of color on your lids with crease-proof eye shadow and add definition with a deep, waterproof eyeliner. put the perfect finish on your lashes with jet-black mascara; add a gentle blush to make you look flawlessly flushed, then finish off your look with High-Shine Liquid Lipstick in Cherry Blossom to make your lips look irresistible.

visit qvc.com to order these sets {don't wait too long, time is running out to receive by december 24th}. happy shopping!

info and images courtesy of Mally Beauty representative

holiday 2014: gift ideas for him

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Tue, 16 Dec 2014 16:30:00 +0000

for all the men in your life, take a look at these fab, fun and pampering gift ideas!

graphic tees featuring his favorite shows, movies and things to do…

techie gifts, like video games and accessories are always popular {this portable speaker looks fab!}; if he's into craft beer, consider personalizing a set of pint glasses for him...

if he loves to read, a gift card to his favorite local book store is fab, and if he likes reading on a tablet or smartphone, a subscription service {like Oyster , Kindle Unlimited and Scribd} will make 2015 his best reading year yet; even if he doesn't like to read, books that feature his favorite subjects can also make great gifts…

these pampering products will make him feel good {even if he won't admit it out loud}…

pep up his daily routine with the iconic bestselling blend! he'll love this Molton Brown Black Peppercorn Bestsellers Gift Set with its antioxidant-rich products, blended with madagascan black peppercorn oil and vetiver. moltonbrown.com

Lavett & Chin Hair Wash, cleanses and conditions without stripping his locks thanks to a formula is blended with organic ingredients including balancing geranium leaf oil to treat and maintain a healthy scalp, and rosemary leaf oil to stimulate hair follicles. to compliment the wash, the non-greasy Lavett & Chin Hair Moisturizer is formulated to revive, moisturize and strengthen each strand from within, without weighing it down. net-a-porter.com

Burt’s Bees Natural Skincare for Men chock-full of clean, no-fuss, no-frills natural care products he doesn't even know he wants but won’t be able to live without. items to consider include Natural Skin Care for Men Bar Soap to clean intensely, energize and purify; Body Wash invigorates and wakes up skin, and the Shave Cream offers aid in giving the perfect shave thanks to its natural ingredients. burtsbees.com

Conair Professional Volare X2 by Ferrari, powered by the legend behind Ferrari, uses an ultra-efficient MaxLife® Pro motor; designed and built for BaBylissPRO in collaboration with Ferrari engineers {if he's into cars, this is sort of a big deal…}, the precision cutting blade is titanium coated for exceptional performance. stylesource.com

hopefully these suggestions help... happy shopping! :)

giveaway alert: RoC® Skincare Gift basket + $200 VISA gift card! {closed}

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Tue, 16 Dec 2014 01:00:00 +0000

on behalf of the RoC® skincare team, i'm so excited and grateful for the opportunity to bring you a fabulous, huge giveaway! i've been a brand ambassador for the last two years and this is a way to give thanks! so, in this season of giving, RoC® would like to gift you with a $200 gift card and a holiday basket filled with {the best} RoC® products!

interested?

of course you are! :)

~ here's what's in the basket:

RETINOL CORREXION® Deep Wrinkle Night Cream {read my review here}

RETINOL CORREXION® Deep Wrinkle Daily Moisturizer {read my review here}

RETINOL CORREXION® Deep Wrinkle Serum {read my review here}

RETINOL CORREXION® Eye Cream

RETINOL CORREXION® MAX Resurfacing System

RETINOL CORREXION® Sensitive Night Cream

RETINOL CORREXION® Sensitive Eye Cream

MULTI CORREXION® 5 in 1 Restoring Night Cream {watch my review here}

MULTI CORREXION® 5 in 1 Eye Cream {watch my review here}

MULTI CORREXION® 5 in 1 Daily Moisturizer {watch my review here}

MAX Resurfacing Cleanser {watch my review here}

Daily Resurfacing Disks {read my review here}

*visit rocskincare.com for more info about the brand, their ingredients and where to buy.*

~ and here are the rules** and what you need to do to enter for your chance to win!:

1. *follow me on Twitter and tweet me {@thebeautygirl}: "i want better skin in 2015! #RoCBeautyGiveaway " {up to 3 times}
2. *follow me on Instagram, regram the giveaway photo i've posted with "i want better skin in 2015! #RoCBeautyGiveaway " and tag me @thebeautygirl {up to 3 times}

super easy so far, right? just a couple more things**:

1. this contest is open today december 15, 2014, to US residents only, 18 and over.
2. you may enter up to 3 times each by tweeting @thebeautygirl on Twitter and Instagram.
3. if you are chosen as the winner, please be prepared to respond to me via DM or email {beautygirlmusings@gmail.com} within 24 hours to provide me with your name, mailing info and phone number {i will send this to the people at RoC; it will be used for shipping purposes only ~ your info will not be shared or sold to any third party}

**contest ends midnight PST friday, december 19, 2014 ~ winner will be announced saturday, december 20th, 2014 here, on Twitter and Instagram!

good luck!

**read please: contest open to US residents only; entrants must be 18 or older. entering this contest means you are giving me permission to forward your name, address, phone number and email address to representatives of RoC skincare for fulfillment and mailing of contest prize. non response {within 24 hours of winner announcement} will result in disqualification and a new winner will be chosen. all personal info is kept private and will not be used for any other purpose beyond this contest. one {1} winner, chosen at random, will receive the prize mentioned. enter up to 3 times via Twitter and Instagram. more entries beyond 3 will not improve your chances of winning. giveaway sponsored by RoC Skincare. some restrictions apply. open to US residents only. entries will be accepted through 11:59 pm PST on friday, december 19, 2014. winner will be announced saturday, december 20th, 2014. thank you. :)

skincare review: 4 serums i'm loving right now...

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Sun, 14 Dec 2014 23:05:00 +0000

when it comes to skincare, serums are, in my opinion, a must in my routine. the highly concentrated gems contain nutrients and technologically advanced ingredients formulated to help prevent or correct skin damage. depending on your needs and budget, there are a plethora of options to choose from.

i've been using the following products individually {though there has been some overlap with a couple at a time} over the last several months, and i'm so excited to share with you now how {and why} i love each one. they all address wrinkles and hydration, but are unique and have different purposes. i've noticed fab results from them all...

Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Serum by RoC is the first on my list. over the last couple of years i've been a brand ambassador and have had the opportunity to work with the company, discovering what makes them and their products so good. while the name suggests it would be a product i wouldn't reach for {i have no severe, deep wrinkles}, the ingredients are fabulous for prevention and correction of fine lines and evening out skin tone. it has a silky, lightweight texture {which was fabulous as i used it over the summer} and it gave my skin a more even-toned, smooth, glowy look. i expected a bit of a reaction from this because the packaging said i might, but also since it contains Retinol {a vitamin a derivative that makes skin more sensitive to sun exposure}, but thankfully, i had none {i do wear sunscreen everyday}. rocskincare.com

Skin & Co Umbria Truffle Hydro-Toning Face Serum is part of an apothecary range of goodies; simple and effective, this serum is certainly worth trying if you are unfamiliar. i love the way it glides onto my skin and absorbs beautifully. it's uber hydrating and creates a smooth finish that works well with other moisturizers and under foundation. i use it twice day and my skin had no negative reaction to it. skinandcoroma.com

Beverly Hills MD sent me their Venox anti-aging serum and it was love at first use. no, that doesn't mean i saw instant results, but that i really loved the way it made my skin feel. with more use, i really began to appreciate the hydration and antioxidants. i used the creamy formula twice a day and it really helped reduce the finer lines i have around my eyes and on my forehead {wrinkles be gone!}. beverlyhils-md.com

and finally i'd like for you to meet Lumene Bright Now Vitamin C BB Serum ~ it's the least expensive on this list, but it certainly doesn't make it less of a powerful product. it smells of fresh oranges and, like the other serums on my list, has improved the look of my skin with its highly concentrated formula. i've been applying it before my sunscreen/moisturizer, and thanks to the light-reflecting pigments, my skin is always left looking beautifully radiant. ulta.com

vitamins and antioxidants as well as advanced ingredients created by man, all of these serums deserve a space in your skincare arsenal. visit the website links for more info. let me know if you've used any of these gems or tell me about what you've been using these days!

products featured were sent to me for review consideration; all opinions and thoughts are my own; pics taken by me :)

holiday 2014: give the gift of Origins

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Wed, 10 Dec 2014 16:30:00 +0000

committed to the environment and all those who populate it, Origins creates fabulous, natural products so many already enjoy using {including me}. for the holiday season, they've created an assortment of fabulous gift sets! naturally {no pun intended}, i think you should consider gifting them to the gorgeous people in your life...

one standout to me is this luscious Ginger Pleasures Set featuring a Ginger fragrance, candle, bubble bath and body soufflé. who wouldn't want to unwrap this lovely set?! of course, there are many sets that can be gifted to everyone on your list, from that special guy, your bff, neighbor or hostess of your annual holiday soiree.

Origins has further decreased the use of paper and cartons in all holiday packaging and specifically designed the bath and body sets so you can create personalized home cards, hangtags or re-giftable packaging; you'll also love that for every holiday ornament sold {$12; filled with samples of skincare goodies}, Origins will plant a tree {love that!}.

visit origins.com for more info. if you're able, pay a visit to your local Origins counter in person. you'll find their special holiday helpers are prepared to guide you in discovering the perfect gifts, and while you're there, you can treat yourself with a free mini facial and complimentary wrapping!

happy shopping!

Cargo introduces new Matte Top Coat

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Tue, 09 Dec 2014 16:30:00 +0000

if you're a fan of the matte lip trend, you can create the look with any of your favorite lippies thanks CARGO’s new Matte Top Coat!

i admit, the matte look wasn't a trend i adopted right away, but recently i've been playing with the look. i've found it to be a fun way to freshen up my look and it works as a nice compliment to a dewey or sparkly eye makeup look.

to get the matte look simply apply your favorite lip color, blot gently and swipe on the top coat to create a fashionable, matte finish.

hello, gorgeous!

the new CARGO Matte Top Coat is currently available at Ulta.com, Nordstrom, Kohl’s, Macy’s and CargoCosmetics.com

holiday 2014: gift ideas for the fashion lover

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Mon, 08 Dec 2014 16:30:00 +0000

for the fashion loving gals on your list, consider these fabulous gift ideas…

the blanket scarf is having a moment! any fashionista would love having multiple {because chances are she has one already}. you can find it in many patterns and price points {i just ordered this one on cyber monday, and it's still on sale!}.

a monogrammed necklace is timeless, personal and thoughtful.

a phone case with a playful image {can't go wrong with Kate Spade!}

to keep her organized, consider a new wallet to house all of her important must-haves

and of course, i wouldn't be me if i didn't recommend some books. these three i recommend highly:

Fifty Dresses That Changed the World by Design Museum {the publisher has other list-centric reads to consider} includes images of dresses worn by Wallis Simpson, Jackie Kennedy, Twiggy and Cher and, of course, Princess Di. this fun volume shares fascinating appraisals of what gave the 50 most important garments their iconic status.

Grace: A Memoir by Grace Coddington, is the gorgeously insightful and overall enjoyable read that any fashion-loving reader would love. Grace is the creative director of american Vogue magazine and her influence is all over its pages. in the book she describes everything from her early career as a model to working with world-class photographers, fashion's best and most influential to her time at british Vogue and shares stories behind some of the most memorable photo shoots and editorials; of course, these's so much more! i listened to the audiobook {read by Grace herself} when it was first published back in 2012, and know it would be fab to have the hardcover.

Teen Vogue Handbook: An Insider's Guide to Careers in Fashion isn't a new title, but it has been updated with 90% new content, including info for our digital age. this book was sent to me, and it's an incredible resource! if you know your recipient is interested in any aspect of the fashion industry, from design to makeup to photography as well as hair, writing online, styling and PR, this book is fabulous. i've really enjoyed reading all the oodles of advice, features and great profiles of industry experts and the overall fact that it helps the reader to understand what each job requires.

what fashionable gifts are you planning to give this year?

TeenVogue Handbook sent to me for review consideration; pics taken by me :)

total beauty: holiday beauty gift guide

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Fri, 05 Dec 2014 02:00:00 +0000

there's no denying the holiday season is now officially here, so there's no better time than now to start shopping for gifts. really, don't be a procrastinator! here's a fab list of suggestions, courtesy of Total Beauty, that should help...

Holiday Gift Guide: Beauty

Pretty picks for the product-obsessed

This is a TotalBeauty.com Health & Beauty article

What do you get for the girl who has lipsticks and eye shadows for days? Something from our holiday gift guide, of course. These holiday palettes, brush sets and nail polishes are the must-haves of the season.

See our holiday gift guide for beauty buffs

happy shopping!

holiday 2014: fragrant gift ideas

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 16:30:00 +0000

if you're looking to gift your loved one with scent this holiday season, consider these individual fragrances and sets featuring scents i happen to love {and know already have many fans}. of course, remember: fragrance is personal, so don't forget to include a gift receipt. :)

Guilty by Gucci 3 Pc. Gift Set for women features the daring, oriental floral fragrance that combines notes of mandarin, pink pepper, lilac and amber for an edge of sexiness and sensuality. set includes eau de toilette, body lotion and portable fragrance spray.

La Vie Est Belle by Lancôme is made with the most precious natural ingredients, boasting a modern interpretation of an oriental fragrance. a perfect choice for cooler temps, elegant iris with the strength of patchouli and the sweetness of gourmand blend together, creating a gorgeously feminine fragrance.

Lancôme's most beautifully classic scent {and one of the first "grownup" scents i ever bought for myself when i was in my early 20s}, Trésor, is for a woman who understands that time is precious and each moment is meant to be treasured. elegant rose and lilac notes will make her feel as radiant and precious as this fragrance is.

Marc Jacobs Daisy Gift Set features the very popular, sophisticated, whimsical scent; always elegant, always enchanting ~ but not too serious ~ Daisy is a sparkling floral bouquet, spirited and fresh, wrapped in comfort and warmth. the set comes with a black keepsake box, which is covered in sleek fabric and encloses a mirror in the lid.

Clinique A Little Happiness gift set is a fabulous option when you have multiples gifts to give but or on a budget, or as one fabulous gift for the happiest gal in your life. includes bright floral Clinique Happy, rich floral Happy Heart, limited-edition Happy In Bloom, Wealth of Flowers, and Clinique Hint of Citrus perfume sprays.

for the on-trend young woman, Juicy Couture Viva la Juicy Nail Duo Kit includes two chic, classic, on-the-go, travel-friendly sized fragrances {Viva la Juicy Eau de Parfum and Viva la Juicy Gold Couture Eau de Parfum}, plus a travel nail set {a nail color duo and statement nail decals} in a pink and gold envelope-style cosmetics bag.

Killer Queen by Katy Perry includes an eau de parfum spray, a purse-friendly rollerball and body lotion in the fun, daring floral fragrance. notes include plum, red velvet flower, jasmine sambac and rainbow plumeria.

these are just a few suggestions, beauties! what scents would you recommend for gift-giving?

images and info courtesy of pr for featured brands

expert tips for creating a perfect at-home bath

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 16:30:00 +0000

did you know that immersing the body in water has been medically proven to be a very relaxing, therapeutic and a complement to a healthy lifestyle? you can find luxurious baths the Lapis Spa in the Fontainebleau Miami Beach where they offer water therapy in various ways and at varied temperatures; the deep muscle relaxation associated with a good hot bath helps to reduce cramps, tension headaches and improves muscle elasticity. this process is similar to a massage and beneficial for everyone, from athletes to those who sit at a desk all day. it has even been said that taking a bath takes you back to a time when you were in the womb, thus creating a comforting and relaxing environment.

with winter in the air and the stress of the holidays just around the corner, a bath is certainly something that will aid in relaxing. i admit, i don't remember the last time i took one, but since receiving the following tips i have to share with you, i'm thinking it's about time i take one soon…

many thanks to Josie Feria, director of Spa at Lapis {located at The Fontainebleau Miami Beach}, for sharing these helpful tips to create the ultimate at-home soaking experience. take a look…

bath temperature

a warm bath is best for relaxing the body with the ideal water temperature being 92 degrees fahrenheit. "test the water by using your wrist, not your hand, as it's a better gauge of how the water will feel once your entire body is submerged."

use scented bath oil

Feria recommends floral scents like lavender, jasmine, iris and rose since they are associated with relaxation and can help to ease you into a relaxing state quicker. "adding oils to the tub {when the bath is halfway full} will help them disperse evenly throughout the water."

body scrub

most people are used to being active all the time, so when they get in the tub their minds start racing and they become unable to relax. engage your mind by gently massaging your body with a sponge and body scrub; as the scrub buffs away dryness, your thoughts can move to something less stressful.

closing your eyes

it's important to close your eyes during the bath to enter deep relaxation, so anything that forces you to keep your eyes closed is a great. "try cold cucumbers, an icy compress or eye pads which have been soaked in chilled chamomile tea."

bath salts

if you've had a tough workout, bath salts are like external muscle relaxants. soreness, pain or swelling are reduced, along with inflammation and stiffness, when using bath salts. they also help detoxify skin and increase circulation which helps to ease tension and revitalize the body.

candles

bright bathroom lights tell your body its go-time ~ not bath time. instead, light a few candles and place them around the room and on the edge of the tub.

cold water

if you’ve set your water temp right {somewhere between steamy and very warm}, you should be feeling quite toasty in the tub. a warm bath raises your body’s core temperature, so you’ll start sweating. Josie says, "before getting into the tub, set a bowl of ice water and a washcloth next to you and use it as a cold compress on your forehead or the nape of your neck to help keep you refreshed throughout the bath time. i also grab a tall bottle of San Pellegrino and force myself to drink the whole thing to hydrate."

bath robe/nice bath sheets
"nothing jolts you out of a zen state like going from a warm, luxe bath to a measly, threadbare robe or old dingy towel. get a plush terry cloth robe or fluffy towels that allow you to feel warm and comfortable."

multitask
make the most of your bath by using the time to also give yourself a face and hair treatment. both the skin and hair respond very favorably to the moist environment created by a steamy bath. to cleanse your face, apply a clay mask to the skin avoiding the eyes, allow to remain on the skin for 7-10 minutes then remove gently with wet washcloth. to soften and hydrate your hair, apply conditioner or hair mask to wet hair then cover in plastic cap and hot towel and allow the conditioner or mask to remain on hair for duration of bath for 15- 20 minutes. wash and rinse thoroughly.

music
"play relaxing music to sooth your mood and aid in the process of relaxation. visualization is also a great tool to enhance relaxation in the bath," says Josie. complimented by music, visualization exercises can transport you to your own private nirvana…caribbean beaches anyone?

relax afterwards
leave the smart phone alone for an hour or so and just enjoy time for yourself. get a glass of tea and read or listen to music. want more coziness? "heat a towel in the microwave and wrap around your neck and take a deep and well-earned nap."

thank you again to Josie Feria for these fabulous tips!

if ever i'm in miami…

so, tell me ~ which of these suggested tips will you, {or maybe do you already} incorporate into your bath time? any fave products you include in your ritual? share in the comments!

info and images courtesy of pr representing Josie Feria of Spa at Lapis {located at The Fontainebleau Miami Beach}

holiday 2014 {beauty}: Bobbi Brown Scotch On The Rocks Collection

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 00:40:00 +0000

when considering beauty gifts, the brand i'd consider highly for gifting would certainly be from Bobbi Brown Cosmetics. for holiday 2014 allow me to bring your attention to the Scotch on the Rocks collection ~ a gorgeous, confident assortment of new products featuring sexy, warm matte browns, golden metallic nudes and silky rich reds. these beauties can be used to create simple yet stunning looks to complement anything you wish to wear, day or night.

the Bobbi Brown Scotch On the Rocks Collection includes:

LE Warm Glow Eye Palette

Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Black Scotch

Lip Color in Sultry Red, Bordeaux, Malt Shimmer and Beige Gold Shimmer

Lip Gloss in Scarlet, Gold {glitter} and Bellini {high shimmer}

Nail Polish in Bordeaux, Scotch Shimmer and Cherry Tomato

LE Highlight Powder in Pink Glow and Bronze Glow

needless to say, this is a beyond fabulous, breathtaking collection! any beauty-loving person {including me} would be happy to receive anything {or everything} from it.

you can find the Bobbi Brown Scotch On the Rocks Collection now at all Bobbi Brown counters, including nordstrom and macy's and of course at bobbibrowncosmetics.com

info, images, and video courtesy of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics

winter beauty: Obiqo Silky Body Butter + Smoothing Eye Cream

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Mon, 17 Nov 2014 16:30:00 +0000

Obiqo skincare combines nutrient-rich sea kelp from new zealand’s pristine waters with the very finest natural marine anti-aging extracts and powerful antioxidant properties of french organic sea lavender. this beauty brand was recently introduced to me, and it was this description that caught my attention.

i've been using Silky Body Butter and Smoothing Eye Cream for a few weeks and i can't stress enough how i think you need these gems in your life. since using them, i've noticed on my skin looks better, feels amazing and they're just a treat to use!

the rich-textured Silky Body Butter really is silky and lush; it absorbs quickly, smells fabulous, and i just love it. it's perfect for using right out of the shower, but of course can be used anytime and anywhere on the body that needs moisture. i especially love applying it right before bed ~ its a guaranteed way to wake up with soft, smooth skin!

Obiqo Smoothing Eye Cream is a luxurious treat for my eyes at the end of the day {and so refreshing when used in the morning}. thanks to its gorgeous rich formula, this fragrance free, non-irritating {in my experience} cream keeps dryness and puffiness at bay.

i've had such a fabulous experience with Obiqo; so much so that i'm ready to try out some of their other items {like the Restoring Night Cream and the Radiant Day Cream}. and the best thing about this luxurious brand is their products are so affordable!

you can get more info about Obiqo products at obiqoskincareusa.com and purchase online at amazon.com

products sent to me for review consideration; all opinions are based on my own experience; pics taken by me :)

Foolproof Fall Makeup from butter LONDON

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Thu, 13 Nov 2014 16:30:00 +0000

bonjour, beauties! it's a pretty busy time in my life currently, and since there are no signs that things will slow down, especially with the holiday season right around the corner, saving time wherever possible is truly helpful…

so when makeup artist and butter LONDON global color ambassador Katie Jane Hughes offered some tips for a foolproof fall makeup look that anyone can achieve in about 10 minutes, i was more than happy to learn more, and of course, share the tips with you!

Katie says: "bold lips are always a fall makeup staple, but you don’t have to spend hours in front of the mirror trying to create a look that’s worthy of the red carpet. for a foolproof fall makeup look, i suggest pairing a bold lip with a soft eye."

follow these steps below for the perfect fall look that’s sure to get you out the door faster:

skin:

"always start with a clean base. use one of the new Scrubbers Makeup Remover Wipes to remove excess makeup or oil from the skin. apply moisturizer {like Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Cream} followed by foundation {Laura Mercier Silk Creme} over the T-zone and concealer {Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage} as needed. dust a bit of pressed powder over the face.

eyes:

take a brown pencil, like WINK Eye Pencil in Twigged, skim the pencil around lash line and blend so it looks lived-in, like a natural smokey shadow. {tip: the striking metallic effect will look great against a matte lip!} finish with a few swipes of mascara {WINK Mascara in Union Jack Black} being sure to separate each lash.

lips:

"for a fall lip, i love matte lipstick. my current favorites are LIPPY Moisture Matte Lipstick in Old Blighty and Ruby Murray. to maximize your matte, press your finger into the lipstick bullet and dab onto a puckered lip, applying until most of the lip is covered. finish by gently pushing your lips together. if you want extra definition, use the highest point on the lipstick bullet to line lips or use a brown liner {WINK Eye Pencil in Brown Sugar ~ this product is genius, i've even used it to contour!} to blend in added color and create an ombre pout."

cheeks:

fall doesn’t require too much color on cheeks, but a barely there pop of color is nice. take a blush brush and lightly dab into CHEEKY Cream Blush in Ruby Murray and gently brush over the apples of your cheeks. Your skin will look fresh and natural.

for the overachievers:

if you have an extra few minutes, a liquid-lined eye is a gorgeous addition to this fall makeup look. take your liner {try WINK Matte Liquid Eyeliner in Brown Sugar} and start with the wing, working out from the edge of your lash line where the top and bottom lid meet. work up and outward and then back toward the lid. stop here if you want an Angelina Jolie inspired cat eye. if you want more of a doe-eyed Zooey Deschanel look, continue to line the length of the eye towards the inner corner.

thanks, Katie! and to you, dear beauties, i hope this info will keep your life easy and allow you to be your fabulous self in minimal time {and if you're interested, take a look at Katie's own bold lip look on Instagram}.

you can find butter LONDON at Ulta, Macy's and online at butterlondon.com

info and images courtesy of butter LONDON

holiday 2014 {beauty}: Laura Mercier Colour Collection

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Mon, 10 Nov 2014 16:30:00 +0000

the holiday season is on its way, beauties! have you seen the Laura Mercier Colour Collection? this gorgeous collection of makeup that should be considered for all the beauty lovers in your life.

let's take a look, shall we?

Into the Wild Look Book Collection {pictured above} features ultra-sheer, blendable products, this set of palettes have been inspired by Laura's work with celebrity clients, who wanted a universal compact that would "wake up" their skin and give them an immediate healthy glow. from bronzer, to cheek color, to glow, it’s easy to customize your look. contains three palettes:

*Safari Chic Palette includes 5 eye colors {Buttercream, LE Goldspun, LE Bronze Glow, Cognac, Bamboo}, 1 Face Highlighter {LE Coral Shimmer}, 1 Mini Longwear Crème Eye Pencil {Espresso}
*Jungle Chic Palette includes 5 eye colors {LE Vanilla, LE Granite, LE Asphalt, LE Brocade. LE Black Envy}, 1 Tightline Cake Eye Liner {Black Ebony}, 1 Mini Kohl Eye Pencil {Black Gold}, 1 Travel Flat Eye Liner Brush
*Tribal Chic Palette boasts 6 eye colors {LE Gold Leaf, African Violet, LE Ambre, LE Royal Pink, LE Sugarplum}, 2 Second Skin Cheek Colors {Orange Blossom, Pink Lotus}

the Luxe Travel Brush Collection {pictured above} contains 8 brushes you'll need to aid in flawless makeup application {Cheek Colour Brush, Secret Camouflage Brush, Pony Tail Brush, Crème Eye Colour Brush, Eye Crease Brush, Smudge Brush, Flat Eye Liner Brush, Angled Eye Liner Brush}. the full-sized heads have travel-friendly handle lengths and are housed in a chic, multi-purpose case.

Lip Transformer Trio {pictured above} features a color-coordinated trio of lip essentials, one for creating a perfect, pretty-in-pink look {Pink Spark} or Laura's signature red lip {Ruby Spark}. the Pink Spark set contains Mini Lip Pencil in Potpourri, Mini Crème Smooth Lip Colour in Creme Coral, LE Full Size Lip Glacé in Pink Spark; Ruby Spark set includes Mini Lip Pencil in Ruby, Mini Crème Smooth Lip Colour in Red Amour, LE Full Size Lip Glacé in Ruby Spark.

5 mini lip glacés in Pink Pop, Wildflower, Tulip, Bare Pink, and Angelic make up the Mini Glacè Collection.

Mini Caviar Stick Eye Colour Collection has 6 shades {Rosegold, Amethyst, Moonlight, Copper, Khaki, Cocoa} to shadow, highlight, line and define eyes for every occasion.

Portable Colour Palette for eyes, cheeks & lips includes 3 eye shadows {Vanilla Nuts, Baroque, LE Cedar}; 1 Tightline Cake Eye Liner {in LE Ground Espresso}; 2 Second Skin Cheek Colors {Lush Nectarine and Barely Pink}; 1 Lip Glacé in LE Rosebud

what stands out to you from this collection? i'm wishing for it all under my tree {so what's new, LOL!} you can find the Laura Mercier holiday Colour Collection now on counter and online at lauramercier.com

info and images courtesy of PR for Laura Mercier

fall beauty: new collections from INGLOT

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Sat, 08 Nov 2014 22:45:00 +0000

hope you're enjoying your weekend so far, beauties! i have some beautiful news for you {you'll definitely appreciate it if you're already a fan of the brand}...

INGLOT has launched two new collections today!

these two collections include HD Perfect Coverup Foundation, enriched with white truffle extract to keep skin balanced, and the Fall in Love collection is a grouping of new frosty, metallic shades {with romantic names like Golden Brown, Fields of Gold, Fine Pine, Silver Blues, and Rosé Mist} that will join the other beautiful shades existing in the brand's gel eyeliners, eyeshadows, and nail enamels.

take a look…

AMC Eyeliner Gel are high intensity pigments that provide ideal coverage and rich colors after just one application. the new shades boast calm, delicate shades in the creamy and delicate long lasting formula that dries in 60 seconds to a waterproof, smudge proof, and crease proof finish.

the gorgeous new nail enamels in the new shades still provide durability and high gloss finish. i'm told the drying time is short to medium, and the formula does not contain toluene, formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate or camphor.

the INGLOT eye shadows contain special silicones and treated pigments; the new colors feature the same high lubricity and silky feel to create an easy, smooth, long lasting, and crease resistant application.

and finally, the HD Perfect Coverup Foundation is formulated with a hypoallergenic formula that promises to provide long lasting coverage, conceal discoloration and other imperfections, as well as provide a natural, flawless finish. available in 8 shades, the new skin perfecting foundations adjust to each skin tone and prevents excess shine.

so, are you excited about the new INGLOT additions? i think they look perfect for the current fall season and will certainly make the winter months absolutely beautiful!

visit inglotcosmetics.com for more info

info and images courtesy of PR representing INGLOT

Lupita Nyong’o for Lancome L’Absolu Rouge

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Fri, 07 Nov 2014 16:30:00 +0000

to announce the addition of six new vibrant shades to the franchise, Lancome ambassadress Lupita Nyong’o shines in her latest campaign as the face of L’Absolu Rouge, Lancôme’s most classic lipstick to date.

this gorgeous campaign features Lupita exuding femininity and elegance, wearing a bold dress to complement her vibrant red lips. a cool fact about this collection {if you didn't already know} is that each of the six lippies were created to match beautiful bright pinks and deep reds of actual roses. in the ad, Lupita is wearing L’Absolu Rouge #160 in Rouge Amour, an intense scarlet red inspired by the Grand Amour rose.

other products used to achieve her full look include Teint Idole Ultra 24H foundation {in 560 Suede}, Color Design 5-Pan Eyeshadow Palette {in Chocolate Amande} and Grandiose Mascara {in Noir Mirifique}.

the ad will be debuting in december print magazine issues like Glamour, that just so happens to have Lupita on its cover!

:)

i say you should treat yourself and pick up one of these lipsticks this weekend, beauties! why not? any of them would be fabulous. visit your local Lancome counter {at major department sores} or lancome.com.

have a gorgeous weekend!

info courtesy of Lancome PR rep and Glamour magazine

winter beauty: new nail polishes from Pure Ice

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Wed, 05 Nov 2014 23:20:00 +0000

bonjour, beauties!

hope your week is going well ~ can you believe the first week of november is almost over? the holiday season is officially here!

since time continues to move ahead at breakneck speed, whether we like it or not, it's now time to focus on beauty of late fall and the winter soon to come…

regarding your nails, Pure Ice wants to dress your tips {and toes} in style. featuring five new, sparkling shades, the winter collection promises to keep your hands looking their best during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, which will most certainly include the use of your hands {for shopping, baking, crafting, etc.}.

take a look...

Santa Merry Me: iridescent reddish gold polish melody with red hex glitter

Winter Blues: iridescent ice blue and pale gold polish with blue hex glitter

Gold Peppermints: icy rose champagne polish with light pink hex glitter

Pure Icicles: silver polish with white hex glitter

Bling On the Holidays: pale champagne gold polish with 14k gold hex glitter

they all look beautiful. do any of these shades stand out to you? you can find Pure Ice polishes at Walmart {for less than $2!}.

info and images courtesy of PR for Pure Ice

beauty girl style: Warby Parker winter 2014 collection

noreply@blogger.com (monique) — Tue, 04 Nov 2014 17:00:00 +0000

there are many fabulous reasons to look forward to winter: woodsy textures, icy-cold sunshine, any excuse for wearing plaid, the first frost…

another reason to look forward to my favorite time of year? this new collection from Warby Parker. if you're not familiar with this brand, allow me to introduce you…

Warby Parker is the alternative to the over-priced rims that dominate the eyewear industry. by circumventing traditional channels, designing glasses in-house, and engaging with customers directly, this fabulous brand manages to provide higher-quality, better-looking prescription eyewear at a fraction of the going price.

and how would i know this?

i'm a customer. :)

my daughter wears these glasses:

it was so easy {and fun!} choosing a pair at home, and ordering them with her prescription once she chose a pair {for more info about their home try-on program, click here}.

that said, let's get back to this new collection…

featuring six new rich tones and eight new shapes, the Warby Parker 2014 Winter Collection aims to help you put your best ~~foot~~ face forward, even if you happen to find yourself in a polar vortex {which many of you know now is a very real thing}. by mixing stainless steel with acetate, the freshened up styles have gorgeous silhouettes with color treatments, and the renovated classic shapes are unshakably confident options with uber amounts of character.

you'll also be happy to know that Warby Parker is a charitable brand. to help address the fact that 15% of the world’s population cannot effectively learn or work, they partner with non-profits like VisionSpring to ensure that for every pair of glasses sold, a pair is distributed to someone in need.

i love that!

so, if you're still reading, i suggest you head over to warbyparker.com now to discover for yourself what i've shared and more ~ the new collection is beautiful. and if you're looking for a new pair of glasses {prescription or not}, consider their eyewear try-on program. trust me, it's fabulous!

new collection info and images courtesy of Warby Parker; thoughts and opinions are my own and i was not paid in any form for this post :)