Beauty Snob - Beauty Secrets and Tips

Give the gift of beauty: Holiday Gift Guide Part One- FRUGAL SNOB

2009-11-20T17:00:25Z

We are kicking off the holidays with Thanksgiving next week which means it's time for holiday gift shopping! Black Friday is the most frightening day for me. I will be in LA celebrating with friends and family and will stay home stuffing my face with leftovers and do all my shopping online. We thought we'd make it easier for you, too and have created a 5 part gift guide for the following types of beauty snobs:

FRUGAL SNOB, JET SET SNOB, FRAGRANCE SNOB, SPORTY SNOB and DIVA SNOB.

We will post one guide per day until Thanksgiving so you'll have lots of options to shop for come Black Friday! Have fun!

Frugal Snob

I don't think I need to spell out why this is an amazing gift at $55 (worth $350!). I think you can pretty much get through the entire year (all four seasons) on these colors! LORAC Double Booked Full Face Collection ($350 Value) $55

I am buying a dozen of these anti-aging eye rollers as stocking stuffers. I know my frugal snob friends will love them and continue to treat themselves to it! I keep mine in the fridge and when I wake up puffy and angry looking, I simply roll it around my eyes (towards the inner corners). Olay Regenerist Anti-Aging Eye Roller here $20.69

What's more fun than playing in a tub full of Philosophy bubbles?! Well there is something more fun but this is a rated G beauty site so I won't get into that. No need to pull out soap, shampoo, and bubble bath-- with Philosophy you get all three, and then some. Philosophy Best of Sephora Set ($97 Value) Best of Sephora Set $55

Snob Steals and Deals: Too Faced Decade of Glamour

2009-11-20T11:00:23Z

Now isn't this the cutest little make up kit you've ever seen? Too Faced celebrated its 10 year anniversary with the Too Faced Decade of Glamour Beauty Wardrobe Makeup Collection. It comes with its most popular products for the past 10 years. This is a great try me kit for Too Faced, or I'm thinking of giving it as gifts to the younger ones in my family. It's cute just to display on their dresser, and I love the silhouette of the girl in the bronzer/blush. The products are all deluxe sample size but for $19.50 for a $195 value who can go wrong? It's got a variety of color and product so this is great for the experimenting beginner or the beauty lover like us!

Get it at Sephora for $19.50.

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It comes with:

- 6 Eye Shadows (Astro Turf, Zsa Zsa, Label Whore, Pixie Dust, Ooh and Aah, and
Lovey Dovey)
- Beauty Balm in Girly Grapefruit
- exclusive Bronzing Powder
- 2Gossip Glosses (Sabotage and Tattle Tale)
- 2 Lipsticks (You're No Lady and Marcia Marcia Marcia)
- Bauble Gloss in Ring Pop
- mini Lash Injection Mascara
- Glamour Gloss in Love Bites
- Ooh La Rouge Blush Duo in Pink Provacateur
- Juicy Jewel Doublesided Gloss Stick in Vanilla Ice
- Sun Bunny Bronzer Duo,
- full-size Lip Injection
- and a mini Lava Gloss Eyeliner.

Web Snob November 20, 2009

2009-11-20T10:00:00Z

Things are getting 'curiouser and curiouser' this season. eye4style's looking forward to the Bergdorf Goodman holiday windows!

Bag Snob's November Giveaway: OSCAR DE LA RENTA Taylor Python - click here to enter to win.

Fab Sugar has the attendees and winners from the CFDA/Vogue's Fashion Fund Awards.

The Jet Set Girls see Dita Von Teese bare it all at the Crazy Horse in Paris.

Tot Snob has an absolute must to kick start the curiosity of young minds ready to soak in and accept knowledge.

55 Secret Street checks out legendary supermodel Iman's Global Chic.

Stiletto Jungle shows how to wash cashmere like an expert.

Allie is Wired covers Oprah's decision to end The Oprah Winfrey Show in 2011.

Bag Bliss Exclusive Event: Linea Pelle Handbag and Belt Sample Sale. Get the invite!

Coquette loves the many ways you can wear Donna Karan's Infinity Dress

Fashion Pulse Daily was there opening day and wonders was Jimmy Choo for H&M Worth the Wait?

KRISTOPHER DUKES is wanting, wearing, and hating cashmere jumpsuits.

Second City Style met the legendary Albert Maysles where his Signature Style Gets Framed at Barneys.

Don't pack up your skirts and dresses - SheFinds found all the best patterned stockings and tights to keep your legs stylishly warm this winter.

Shopping and Info loves the black wedge suede books by Dolce & Gabanna.

StyleBakery is completely obsessed with sequins for day and night

Stylehive has spotted a pair of party-perfect sequined pumps, just like Badgley Mischka's but at a fraction of the cost...

The Beauty Stop addresses the hype surrounding MAC Volcanic Ash Exfoliator.

The Shoe Goddess still loves funky platforms, but lately she has had her eye on more classic shoes like this Yves Saint Laurent Pump!

Guerlain 'Meteorites Voyage' Pressed Powder

2009-11-19T17:02:06Z

I had been given the Guerlain 'Meteorites Voyage' Pressed Powder as a gift from one of my managers, and instantly fell in love with it. I love everything about Guerlain. It all just seems so luxurious to me. And this compact is no exception. It has that beautiful classic design on the top and is made of heavy metal. The powder inside is refillable so you don't always have to keep investing in the whole product. It's translucent, and I like to put it on just a bare face on lazy days. It helps just make my skin look perfect and natural. The secret is in the color spheres: Mauve attracts light, green tones down redness, pink imparts a healthy glow, gold and pearl create highlights, and white brightens. She also gave me this beautiful matching retractable brush, where the bristles are dyed to match the meteorites, but I don't think they sell it anymore. You can get it at Nordstroms for $160, and that's with the compact and the powder. The Guerlain Meteorites Compact Refills
are $55.

New UK Line: Illamasqua

2009-11-19T11:00:06Z

I'm not the biggest MAC fan. I love that they have really strong vibrant eye colors, but every so often the skin around my eyes will become red and a bit swollen. My skin seems to be too sensitive for their heavy makeup and it's too bad of course, because MAC has some of the richest colors. To that end, I was getting ready to go out at my friend's apartment a few weeks ago and saw that she was applying a bright pink shadow (she's an actress so she likes that dramatic flair!), and I was surprised that the shade she was applying wasn't one from MAC. The brand she was using was Illamasqua and they're a UK line that just launched in the US. The line has a HUGE range of products and they include some of the most vibrant shades I've ever seen - bold, bright, neon heaven! That said, they also have an endless array of more traditional shades (no matter the shade though everything is very richly pigmented). More after the jump!
]]> Love their nail polish shades too! They're similarly rich in color, long-lasting (barely chipped after a week). Click here to see more from Illamasqua!

Join Beauty Snob Facebook Page and Twitter! Find out $1,000 Giveaway details!

2009-11-18T22:43:09Z

We will be announcing our holiday ($1,000) giveaway on our Facebook and Twitter Pages!

Be the first to find out how to enter to win. We will also reveal the brand sponsoring this generous giveaway on FB as well!

Click here to join our Facebook Page

Click here to follow us on Twitter!

New from shu: Holiday 2009 Collection!

2009-11-18T17:00:36Z

Check out these adorable holiday palettes from Shu Uemura!! Collaborating with acclaimed fashion designer Tsumori Chisato, shu has created a very special makeup collection called "Wish Upon a Star". These will make perfect stocking stuffers and are will be great for traveling. I like putting cream highlighter around the outer and inner corners of the eyes-- makes them sparkle and takes attention away from any unsightly lines.

PLANET CAT COUTURE PALETTE

3 Pressed eye shadows, 1 cream eyeliner, 1 cream highlighter, 2 double-ended applicators, 1 glow on

Price : $65.00
Available: Shu Uemera tsumori chisato limited edition planet cat couture palette

RADIANT RIBBON COUTURE PALETTE

3 Pressed eye shadows, 1 cream eyeliner, 1 cream highlighter, 2 double-ended applicators, 1 glow on
Price: $65.00
Available: Shu Uemera tsumori chisato limited edition radiant ribbon couture palette

How can I get rid of blackheads? Renée Rouleau has answers.

2009-11-18T14:00:37Z

Guest blog by Renée Rouleau

Blackheads. We all have them and we all hate them.

What is a blackhead?
These are large pores that contain oil that has oxidized with the air causing it to turn black.

There have been countless products sold through the years that claimed to remove them, but nothing seems to be effective. (Remember the pore-cleansing strips that were sold years ago for blackhead removal? All they did was remove hairs on the nose.) Some estheticians will use a suction device that claims to "vacuum" them out of the pores, but all it does is cause redness and potentially damage capillaries.

What you can do?
Although there is no way to permanently get rid of blackheads, your best bet is regular monthly deep pore cleansing facials where the blackheads are manually extracted from the skin. Go to an experienced, trusted esthetician who will properly soften up the skin and gently remove them without injuring the skin. I recommend post-facial to use an Alpha Hydroxy Acid or Beta Hydroxy Acid product (try Renée Rouleau Glycolic Serum) to keep the pores cleaned out. Long term use of Retin-A can also help but it has to be used regularly and for years before you can really see a difference. Avoid the ingredients Isopropyl Myristate and Isopropyl Palmitate in your skin care products as these can contribute to the formation of blackheads.

Bottom line: Don't get fooled by anyone selling you products that claim to remove blackheads. Trust me, if there was a cure, we would all know about it and I'd be the first to bring it to you. I've been squeezing out blackheads out of my client's skin for over 20 years and my hands are getting tired!

Renee Rouleau Skin Care

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Celeb Look: Smudgy Eyes

2009-11-18T11:00:00Z

I love the drama of a smudgy eye, especially now that the weather has cooled-off so dramatically. I've found that the key to best achieving this look resides in a great liquid eye liner and a smudge brush. I recently tried Sensai Color Liquid Eyeliner ($36) -- figured they would work best for anything that required precision. The liner is made with extremely fine brushes (it comes in black or brown), and it really delivers on the precise application claim. The liner works kind of like a pen; you put in a color cartridge (the liner is refillable), and then click like a pen. The more you click the more color comes out. If you only give one light click, very little color comes-out allowing for a meticulous application not possible with most liners (it can go on as thin or as thick as you like with just a few clicks!). More after the jump!

]]> Bobbi Brown has some nice alternative!

What do you think about the smudgy eye look?

Cle de Peau Gentle Cleansing Foam

2009-11-17T17:00:04Z

When the weather goes from 78 to 35 over night, it's time to pull out my most gentle and face saving products. I save Cle de Peau's Gentle Cleansing Foam for the extreme days (hot or cold) because it really helps my skin retain moisture. And yes, it's kind of pricey but so worth it cuz the tube lasts forever. I love how it foams up, it's a soft and rich texture yet removes all traces of face make up (I do have to remove mascara with my Almay eye make up remover pads but that's cuz I layer so many coats). As gentle as it is, it really does some serious deep cleaning, especially around the T-zone area.

You're supposed to use a make up remover before this but I don't wear much powder or foundation so this is all I need at night. I also use it on my T-zone in the mornings to remove that shiny greasy residue I get when I wake up each morning.

Remember to only use a tiny drop, it's all you need to make lots of foam! $60 at Neiman Marcus.

Unemployed? Hair styles to get you hired

2009-11-17T14:00:49Z

Unemployment is at an all time high and we found the greatest tips from Marie Claire to help you get hired. It's no secret that when you look good, you feel confident. So check out these tips the next time you head out for that interview!

MARKETING & ADVERTISING

OBJECTIVE: Look like a closer -- not a Showgirls extra.

Marie Claire says: If you want to push products for a living, first know how to sell yourself. Hair worn in loose, smooth waves, parted to the side à la Moschino Cheap & Chic's fall runway, communicates trustworthiness and fresh ideas.

Beauty Snob says: I don't know how loose waves translates to trustworthiness but it does look very stylish and on trend. Looking fashionable is key in marketing and advertising.]]>

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

OBJECTIVE: Express originality, minus the eccentricity.

Marie Claire says: Leave the Katy Perry coif at home and sweep hair into a sleek, high ponytail, like those spotted at Alexander Wang and BCBG Max Azria. If you have a short, funky cut, don't sport mismatched roots -- freshen up your hue with a 10-minute color rinse at home if there's no time for a salon appointment, suggests celebrity stylist Wendy Iles.

Beauty Snob says: Keeping your hair in a high ponytail looks professional and will keep you from playing with your hair or repeatedly tucking hair behind your ears. Just make sure it's a natural high ponytail, no clip ons please. Save that for the disco.

HEALTH CARE

OBJECTIVE: Show that you're more concerned about patients than 'dos

Marie Claire says: Appear both confident and modest with a quick and easy half-up style, like the ones seen on DKNY's fall catwalk. "Your interviewer will want someone adaptable, so look like you are ready to jump into action and can handle anything," says McKee.

Beauty Snob says: Definitely an elegant yet no fuss hair style, last thing you want is hair swinging in your patient's face. I'd even do a low ponytail if you're interviewing for management position.

FINANCE

OBJECTIVE: Flaunt your business acumen, not over-the-top hair.

Marie Claire says: Show you can handle the big bucks without defaulting to mom-hair. A neat, flat-ironed chignon, like those seen on the Miu Miu and Calvin Klein fall runways, is the best way to convey quiet authority, says Iles. For a short and chic option, try a timeless angled bob.

Beauty Snob says: This is the typical "I just graduated from B-school" hair. I'd grow it a bit longer so it's not as severe. You want to look capable but also warm and friendly.

Estee Lauder Opulent Shimmer Powder

2009-11-17T11:00:00Z

I previewed Estee Lauder's Opulent Shimmer Powder ($32) a few months back at a Holiday Preview that Estee Lauder hosted and have been dying to write about it ever since. Finally it's out! I've been applying matte foundation and then sweeping my face with this powder -- saying it creates luminous skin is an understatement. My friend Flavia had an all-girls dinner party the other night and so many of my girlfriends wanted to know what I had on my face. Even when blemished this powder makes your skin look healthy with a natural shine. It's a bargain at $32 because you really just need two quick swoops on your face (I use it lightly all over my face, but it works as a highlighter as well). A few of my friends have picked this up after seeing me wear it and it works on variety of skin tones (finally a one-shade-fits-all that delivers!).

Snob Worthy Links November 17, 2009

2009-11-17T10:00:00Z

Nitrolicious teamed up with HP to giveaway one (1) brand new sleek-sexy Envy 13 to a lucky nitro:licious reader.

Jewel Snob has the most fabulous fancy yellow diamond ring.

TheFind wants you to Indulge Your Inner Celebutante.

Tot Snob has an insanely fantastic sequin piece that can be worn from the holidays into spring.

Bag Snob has this sleek art deco influenced silhouette Temperley Ophelia clutch.

Recessionista Blog has sunglasses as big as dishplates!

Preen is fast becoming a snob fave, so well priced and always unique - check out this jacket on Couture Snob.

Fab Sugar saved the best for last with their final Rebecca Minkoff giveaway.

WIN a Signed In Bloom by Reese Witherspoon Bottle!

2009-11-16T11:00:00Z

Between the Britneys, the Heidis, and Lindsays there's plenty out there to give us the creeps when it comes to Hollywood. One actress however can always be counted on to keep it together and now she's teamed-up with Avon for a new fragrance! Reese Witherspoon has just launched her new fragrance, In Bloom, and we're giving away a signed bottle to one reader!

The Fragrance--
Top Notes: Georgia Peach Tea Leaves, Crisp Greens
Middle Notes: Star Gardenia, Magical Magnolias, Night Blooming Jasmine
Background Notes: Enveloping Cashmere Woods, Hypnotic Florals, Amber Wood Crystals

We will pick the winner via a random drawing on November 20th. For a chance to win, in the comments, tell us your favorite Reese Witherspoon movie! US residents only please.

Bobbi Brown Extreme Party Mascara

2009-11-13T17:00:00Z

When I read Bobbi Brown's new Extreme Party Mascara was re-layerable without clumping or flaking, I was intrigued. My biggest issue right now is going out right after a day of running around without time to wash my face and re-do my make up. By the end of a typical day (meeting with builders, contractors, tile people, marble people, cabinet people, building a house is a major pain!) I do not have time to re-do my face! And with holiday parties and events starting at 6:30pm, I have resorted to sticking fake lashes on top of my mascara and running out the door. I have never found a mascara that I can re-apply through out the day, it just doesn't exist. Or so I thought. I got a sample of Bobbi's new Extreme Party Mascara and was kind of skeptical, "yeah, uh huh, re-apply and not have weird clumps? Sure."

So I tried it last week and the first coat was fine, very soft feeling and easy to apply. The second and third coats, the same. I went about my day and at 5pm, re-applied. Uh... my lashes were still super soft, like I didn't have mascara on but I did. So I applied 3 more coats, that's 6 coats and it was like the very first coat! Kind of freaky and have no idea what is in it but this is very handy to keep in your make up bag ladies! Go try it at the Bobbi Brown counter first for yourself, you'll see what I mean. Have a great weekend, all!

Bobbi Brown Extreme Party Mascara here $22

Review: ORIBE Signature Moisture Hair Masque

2009-11-13T11:00:33Z

I received a sample of Oribe's new Signature Moisture Masque to review and it could not have arrived at a better time. My hair is feeling fried lately from traveling and the many events I attend (and the water in LA is really harsh for some reason!). The scent reminded me of a luxurious skin cream, I almost wanted to slather it on my face! This super rich treatment is made for daily or weekly use, depending on your needs. I am a twice a week deep conditioning girl but have not been so diligent lately (hence the crackling hair).

I used this last night before the Louis Vuitton party and left it on my hair for 5 minutes while I showered (you can shave or exfoliate while you wait like I do!). Surprisingly, it didn't leave a residue on my skin as some of my other hair masks do and can I say again how much I love the way it smells! I think it's the watermelon extract and wild mango butter that smells so good but not like food where you'd be scared your kid will want to eat it. There is Kaempferia Galanga root extract that is said to provide UV protection and sunflower seed extract that makes hair shiny. My hair was really smooth after using it and almost too soft and shiny so I don't recommend using this right before an event like I did last night if you plan any kind of teased up do. Shiny and pretty can be difficult to tease and curl! 5.9oz for $59 at Oribe.com here.

Web Snob November 13, 2009

2009-11-13T10:00:00Z

Couture Snob features a guest blog by Molly Sims - Molly's jewels debut tonight on HSN!

Stiletto Jungle is raving about fabulous winter tights for under $6.

Allie is Wired takes a look at Shakira's new dreadlocks.

FabSugar has Taylor Speaks - A FabSugar exclusive interview with Rachel Zoe's ex-style associate.

Coquette is loving Audrey Tautou's Chanel Cometes Star Pendant Necklace from the Chanel No. 5 ads.

Jewel Snob has the stunning Harry Winston Brown Kite Diamond Necklace - a great gift for that special someone!

Fashion Pulse Daily snags an exclusive interview with Candela NYC Designers Natalia Kuks-Jacobs and Gabriela Perezutti-Isacson !

Is your closet ready for holiday? Check out eye4style to learn all about Rent the Runway, a new dress rental service that ensures you'll never be seen in the same outfit twice!

Bag Snob has a Gucci tote with a nice shape and a very discreetly placed strip of embossed logo leather for those who don't care to advertise their designer choice.

Real vs. Steal: Taylor Swift's Net-A-Porter Dress. I'm Not Obsessed will show you how.

The Jet Set Girls show off the new Louis Vuitton Label Line.

Tot Snob has THE perfect holiday gift, and it benefits St. Jude's Children's Hospital too!

Bag Bliss walks you through the 4 easy steps to finding the perfect Coach Wallet.

KRISTOPHER DUKES is wanting, wearing, and hating Giuseppe Zanotti rubber-wedge boots.

Second City Style interviews eBay's Style Director Constance White and learns out how to give back this holiday season.

SheFinds wants to help you prepare for holiday madness by sorting out all the best dress pants, so you'll always have a chic alternative when you just can't stand to don one more cocktail dress.

Shopping and Info loves these sheepskin lined ballerina flats for winter.

StyleBakery.com shares 15 styling tricks straight from the fall runways

Stylehive is obsessed with animal prints , but these aren't your typical striped and spotted separates by any means!

Have brown eyes? The Beauty Stop found an eyeshadow kit that might be perfect for you.

The Shoe Goddess and Gossip Girl love shoe designer Alexandre Birman!

Celeb Look: Shiny Hair

2009-11-12T17:10:21Z

I used to always watch Pantene commercials and marvel at how shiny the hair featured in them was (my hair sure as hell didn't look as shiny as it did in the commercials when I last tried Pantene! Actually the only time my hair naturally looks that shiny is when I haven't washed it in awhile...and that's not too appealing). Turns-out one can't rely on shampoo/conditioner alone to get a healthy hair shine (kind of like how we need help getting that "natural" dewy glow look). I recently tried-out some hair shine finishing sprays for the first time and two stood-out as particularly effective at not only increasing shine, but also enhancing color and controlling frizz. Jump for more!

]]> Redken's Real Control Mineral Elixir ($17 for 1.7oz) actually just launched a few weeks ago. It's basically a smoothing oil that gives you light control and moisture to style, but lots of anti-frizz protection while imparting a nice shine. My hair is slightly wavy, but not very dense so I needed very little of this (it's applied on dry hair) -- unless you have super-dense or very dry hair, be careful not to apply too much!

Another great find is Bumble & Bumble's Shine Spray ($35 for 4oz). This option is equally great for frizz-control, moisture (turns out shine sprays are a god-sent for dry hair!), and though I found this one to be less long-lasting than the one from Redken, it gave a lot more shine. Both The Redken and Bumble&Bumble are great options depending on what you're looking for and they're both priced about the same when you look at price per ounce.

Do you do anything to enhance your hair's natural shine?

RareMinerals Renew & Reveal Facial Cleanser

2009-11-12T17:00:36Z

Like I've said before, I have strange skin. My skin does not like to accept just any kind of product. And when it comes to facial cleansers, if it's not the right kind, my whole face just goes down hill from there. Since my skin feels really tight and dry right after cleansing, I hate the squeaky clean feeling some cleansers give. And then if its a heavy cleanser then my face is just a slippery mess 5 minutes later. Then I tried Bare Escentuals RareMinerals™ Renew & Reveal Facial Cleanser. I was a little skeptical at first because it is a powder cleanser that is activated by water. But I use it only in the morning when I shower and that keeps it mess free.

Just like everything else from Bare Escentuals it is free of parabens, sulfates, dyes, and fragrances. This cleanser also doesn't have soap detergents, harsh abrasives, or skin irritating chemicals so its good for even the most sensitive skin. It gently exfoliates, hydrates, and brightens skin with the RareMinerals Active Soil Complex that is in all of their skincare line.

When I cleanse my face with the cleanser, I like mix a teaspoon of water and teaspooon of cleaner in the palm of my hand. Then I like to just massage it in for about 30 seconds to get the best skincare benefits out of it, and my face feels baby smooth afterward. I can't use just the cleanser as an exfoliant, but it helps keep my skin smoother in between. I've used it before to take off my make up and does a pretty good job. Only when I wear waterproof liner or mascara do I have to go a second time to get the residue off. You can get it at Sephora.com for $26. I'm still looking for my perfect nightly cleanser to take off all my make up with just one cleanse. Do you have a favorite make up cleanser?

CharityBuzz: Bid on houses made by Oscar, Diane, Bobbi and J.Lo!

2009-11-11T17:00:57Z

House from Left to Right: Bobbi Brown, Diane von Furstenberg, Oscar de la Renta.

I am completely obsessed with Gingerbread houses, making them is my favorite thing to do each holiday with my son. We actually sign up for a class each year and are getting to be quite the pros at this! But after seeing these houses above, I realize we have much to learn!!! How adorable are these houses for sale at CharityBuzz.com ?? They are being sold to raise funds for a very deserving organization, "Women In Need". Each house is valued at $5,000 but the bids start low at $150! The auction will go from now until November 30th. I'm bidding on all three houses above but there are many many more (including Jennifer Lopez and Vera Wang)! Want to join me? Go to CharityBuzz.com here.

Charity proceeds go to "Women in Need": an organization that provides housing, help and hope to New York City women and their families who are homeless and disadvantaged

]]> Women In Need, Inc. (WIN) provides housing, help and hope to New York City women and their families who are homeless and disadvantaged. Through comprehensive programs such as shelter, supportive permanent housing, job training, domestic violence services, alcohol and substance abuse treatment and childcare, WIN offers the tools and guidance which allow families to return to their communities and live independently.

About the project
The auction will take place starting November 9th and will end on Monday, November 30th. Houses have been designed by Sean Avery; Lidia Bastianich; the Beckham family; Halle Berry; Mary J. Blige; Chris "Ludacris" Bridges; Bobbi Brown; Cast of the Broadway Musical Hair; Cast of the Broadway play Race; Cast of the Broadway play Superior Donuts; Sean "Diddy" Combs; Oscar de la Renta; Cheyenne Jackson; Donna Karan; Monica Rich Kosann; Dylan Lauren; Richard Leach for Park Avenue Autumn; Deborah Lloyd for Kate Spade; Jennifer Lopez; Isaac Mizrahi; Moby; Debra Messing; Josie Natori; George Rodrigue; Cameron Silver for Decades; Justin Timberlake & Trace Ayala; Today Show Anchors; Diane Von Furstenberg; Vera Wang. Additionally, Parsons The New School for Design collaborated on several of the house designs. Several of the houses have been embellished courtesy of CRYSTALLIZED™ - Swarovski - Swarovski Elements.

Saks Fifth Avenue will feature the houses in their Manhattan flagship windows from November 5th - 9th. The auction will launch at a by-invitation-only event hosted by Park Avenue Autumn. Event co-hosts include Myla Lerner & Larry Kramer; Deborah Roberts & Al Roker; and Karin & Steve Sadove.

estimated value for each house, $5000

Orlane Creme Royal Eye Contour

2009-11-11T11:00:00Z

Orlane has just come-out with the eye version of their famously pricey Creme Royal. Called Creme Royal Eye Contour, the creme retails for $300 for .5oz and is formulated to be an anti-aging, anti-sagging, anti-free radical, anti-wrinkle, hydrating, nourishing, and firming creme (talk about a mouthful!). The key ingredient in the creme is royal jelly, a substance that serves as the queen bee's sole nourishment and enables her to live 50 times longer than the other bees (sounds convincing, no!?). The eye cream also uses 24-carat gold (same idea as those Kanebo lipsticks everyone's talking about), which is used in plastic surgery to stimulate the production of elastic fibers and fight skin slackening. Lastly it's got Lupine Extract to fight puffiness, redness, and dark circles. This is a hearty eye treatment that is meant for those over the age of 30 (though if you're an over-worked New Yorker/frequently suffer from hangovers this could be for you as well!).

"Hand"ling Age with Grace Part Two

2009-11-10T17:00:48Z

I promised to post a list of my favorite hand saving creams, I have many-- priced from $5.99 and up. I keep handcreams all over the house, in the car, and in my bag. But since this is Beauty Snob-- I'll start with the big daddy of handcreams, from Chantecaille.

$68 Chantecaille Retinol Handcream- it sucks that Chantecaille is so expensive (we have never received a free sample from them, so you know I love it if I'm paying this kind of money for handcream when I have handcreams sent to me from PR firms whenever I want!) but in this case you really get what you pay for. This handcream is serious stuff, it has retinol so do not use if you are pregnant! I like using it at bedtime so it doesn't get wasted or washed off with my frequent handwashing. You'll wake up with buttah soft hands!

Eucerin wins for best bargain at $5.99. This is Kelly's favorite-- I gave it a try recently and have to say, not bad for the price. It's a little sticky and heavy though and I do not like creams with mineral oil but it does fix my dry heel issue. If you're a snob on a budget, give this a whirl.

I received a tube of this from Clinique last month and it's currently on my desk. I like it because it has no fragrance and is not too heavy but does keep the hands moisturized. I use it when I'm blogging on the computer but I do not keep this in my car! It's a bit slippery which would make it dangerous to use and lose control of my steering wheel you know what I mean? $17.50 for the CLINIQUE Deep Comfort Hand and Cuticle Cream or you can get a large jar of Clinique Deep Comfort Body Cream to save a few pennies and use it all over, including your hands. (Jump for complete list!)]]>

$50 Ellen Sirot-- I keep the purse size version in my car ($30) and have one under my sink for after handwashing (you thought I was kidding when I said I have dozens of handcreams around the house!?!?). Read my review from June here. I love this cream, you can layer it on and it won't get all greasy or nasty, really good stuff.

$55 DIOR Capture Handcream- I started using this in college and every few years will remember to get it again (purchased at Neimans or Saks). Something about the way this handcream smells that brings back really great memories of my younger years. The formulation is pretty good, too. It absorbs really fast which is why I like it. I keep this in my bag when I have it. Get Dior Capture Handcream here.

Nelson's New Rescue Balm

2009-11-10T11:00:00Z

Right about now is when my lips and skin start hitting their peak of dryness. I basically have to apply lip balm and L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream every two seconds, and I have to start exfoliating once again -- no fun! Fresh's Sugar Lip Treatment ($22.50) works really well as a lip balm (as does their tinted one), but it's very pricey and I've found that the new Rescue Balm ($5.06) protects and moisturizes my lips just as well (and I can get 4 for the same price as one Fresh Lip Treatment!). The only drawback is that Rescue Balm comes in a little pot, so you have to use your fingertips to apply it.

Snob Worthy Links November 10, 2009

2009-11-10T10:00:00Z

Recessionista Blog loves these Fold Up Ballet Flats - perfect for the holidays!

Nitrolicious shows off the Old Navy Holiday 2009 Collection.

Bag Snob has the perfect holiday clutch that you will want to keep using well into the new year.

FabSugar has how you can score Rebecca Minkoff's Zip Morning After Mini Bag.

The Find has found Where the Boys Are - Women's Lace-up Brogues.

If you're looking for a cover up, but don't like the fussiness of a shawl, Couture Snob has a great way to get the look.

Tot Snob has the perfect reminder for your office of why you are working so hard when you are really missing your tot.

MAC holiday- Magic Mirth and Mischeif

2009-11-09T17:07:28Z

This is one of my favorite new MAC lines, I received a sample of the Mineralized shadow duo in purple/silver (Devil May Care $19.50 on left) and it's one of the most gorgeous purple shadows I've tried. Honestly, most of my MAC samples go to our young assistants cuz the colors are so out there and sparkly but this collection is wearable (though still a bit sparkly so proceed the metallics with caution!).

Another item worthy of trying is the metallic nail lacquer (either in blue/pink frost or the silver below $12). I like the consistency of MAC nail polishes, goes on without the little annoying bumps and will last a good week without chipping or peeling. MAC holiday- Magic Mirth and Mischeif here.

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New ModelCo Turbo Lash Wand

2009-11-09T11:00:00Z

After 7 years of being one of ModelCo's most popular products, the Turbo Lash Wand ($33) has undergone a makeover! The revamped heated lash curler now has a higher-powered superior heating mechanism with a hot new pink look and added features that help shape lashes without breaking them (I've been using it for the last few weeks and haven't noticed any breakage/eyelash-loss). Among the new features are --

A double-heating coil that reaches 60 degrees instead of 40 and curls at the root of the lash as well as mid-way
Ergonomic design that fits easily in your hand
Battery operated so it's travel-friendly
Inbuilt On/Off indicator light

The application process is easy; just apply your mascara and then straight after turn on the wand and wait 60 seconds for it to heat up. Then apply the wand at the root of your eyelashes, fold back and hold for 20 seconds.

Shu Uemura Nobara Cream Cover Stick

2009-11-06T17:00:56Z

I am one of those people who hoard things in their car (I could never live in Taipei or New York again because where would I put all my STUFF?). Open my console and you'll find a make up bag with a spare set of my can't live without items for times I need freshening up. My problem is the heat in Texas melts everything so I only keep lip gloss, handcream and sunscreen in there during the summertime. Now that it's cooler, I can stash up again-- with items like this Nobara Cream Cover Stick Foundation from Shu Uemura. This is a stick version of the cult favorite featuring a new formulation that's supposed to make it more flawless-- it looks the same to me though I do like the convenience of a stick foundation. I played with this at Shu Uemura and loved how easily it glides on! It comes in 13 shades which confused me, I actually need two different colors to make the perfect shade but then it'd cost almost $100 so I just walked away and will wait until I'm out of my current stick foundation. You should try this if you're looking for a stick foundation-- $42.00 at Shu Uemura.com

Feerie by Van Cleef & Arpels

2009-11-06T11:00:13Z

Isn't this the prettiest fragrance you have ever seen? Well of course it would look so gorgeous because it's from Van Cleef & Arpels who has the most beautiful fine jewelry. Now I'm not a big fragrance girl. I think it's because there are many times I walk past women and am gagging on their over spill of perfume and didn't want to be one of those people. But I saw this new fragrance called Feerie Eau de Parfum in a Lucky magazine last holiday and thought it was the prettiest thing I had ever seen, so the next time I waltzed through the cosmetic department at Neimans I decided to take a whiff of it. Wow, let me tell you, it smells as good as it looks! The smell is almost fruity to me. On Neimans site it notes these blends of fragrances.

• Top notes: Violet, Red Berries (Black Currant) Italian Mandarin.
• Middle notes: Bulgarian Rose and Egyptian Jasmine.
• Bottom Notes: Iris Butter and Vetiver.

They also have a new fragrance that came out over the summer called Feerie Eau de Toilette which I hadn't tried yet but really want to. I'm assuming it's very similar in scent, but is just a bit lighter. I really just want it because the top is a different design and I just want to have them collected for that sole purpose. It's just a plus that they also smell so wonderful! The SA told me I could just them as a ring holder also, but I don't think I want to clutter it and ruin its beauty. You can get it Exclusively at Neimanmarcus.com for 1oz for $110 or 3.3oz for $150. I got the larger size, because really? More then 3 times the amount for $40 more. I think it's worth it.

Web Snob November 6, 2009

2009-11-06T10:00:00Z

Cutting Edge or Questionable? eye4style tells all about a new plastic surgery iPhone app.

Stiletto Jungle explains how to blowout hair at home, perfectly.

Bag Snob reminds you that a great way to get out of a funk is to shop vintage.

The Shoe Goddess is obsessed with Christian Louboutin's latest black patent pump!

The Fashion Bomb finds hundreds of coats, shoes, boots, and accessories to fabulously update your Fall / Winter Wardrobe.

Couture Snob has Donna Karan dresses on sale for a limited time.

Bag Bliss loves the reduce-recycle-reuse concept behind Novella Royale Handbags.

Is your tot ready to move on from eating with fingers? Tot Snob has the ideal mealtime solution.

All About the Pretty is coveting this new bag for her winter travel jaunts thanks to Lululemon .

All Lacquered Up has the scoop on cover girl Blake Lively's nail color direct from her Marie Claire photo shoot.

Fab Sugar has Paige Novick's colorful baubles - well worth the splurge.

Allie is Wired has the scoop on the Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart Bazaar cover.

Coquette wants to get bundled up in one of Soïa & Kyo's coats.

Fashion Pulse Daily provides a sneak peak at the fabulously affordably world of Charlotte Russe, the holiday collection

Real vs. Steal: Sienna Miller's faux fur look. I'm Not Obsessed will show you both options.

KRISTOPHER DUKES is wanting, wearing, and hating Halston draped-back top.

Second City Style thinks that footwear often holds more trend-setting influence than the clothes in Strutting With Style.

SheFinds is ready to get you perfectly dressed in time for any and every holiday event with their guide to an array of festive attire.

Shopping and Info wants this ruffled shearling coat on sale from Diane Von Furstenberg.

StyleBakery.com created the ultimate fall shopping list with some help from their favorite fashion bloggers and editors.

Stylehive found lots of boyfriend-inspired looks for less than $50, because stealing from your boyfriend's closet all the time isn't nice.

The Beauty Stop shows how to get an easy 3-color eyeshadow look.

Getting married in June?

2009-11-05T14:04:23Z

Getting married in June? Renée Rouleau shares skin tips for the bride.

6 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING

Find a reputable skin care professional. Six months is the perfect amount of time to ensure that your skin is clear, smooth and glowing for the big day. It's important to find a skin care spa or clinic that offers a wide range of skin care services to give your skin everything it needs.

Schedule a consultation. What may be fabulous for your friend may not be right for you. Be sure to ask a lot of questions; particularly the cost of treatments, side-effects and the results they can guarantee.

Fit it in the budget. Generally, a good skin care plan (both professional and home-care products) can range from $1000-$2000. Tip: If the budget is tight, let your maid of honor know that getting your skin in good condition for your wedding day is a priority and she may plan a shower where everyone pitches in to give your skin care services as a gift.

]]> Patch test your skin. When starting a new skin care program, be sure to do a patch test if you're trying out new skin care products as allergic reactions can take up to four weeks to heal. Rub a small amount of product on the side of your neck and wait 24 hours. If redness or irritation occurs, avoid using the product.

Follow the plan set forth by your skin care professional. A variety of skin care procedures such as ultrasonic exfoliation, microdermabrasion, light therapy, facials, oxygen treatments, micro current and chemical peels will all be beneficial in getting your bridal glow.

FOR BREAKOUTS:
-Exfoliate well. This will keep off dry skin cells to lessen clogged pores and blemishes, and help fade post-breakout scars. Look for products with exfoliating acids and enzymes.
-Keep the skin clear of bacteria. Products using ingredients such as Benzoyl Peroxide and Tea Tree help to eliminate bacteria and prevent the spread of breakouts.
-Be sure to keep the skin hydrated. If you're prone to blemishes, your skin needs water-based moisture to keep cells healthy to discourage dead skin cell buildup. Make sure to use an oil-free lotion.

FOR DISCOLORATION AND BROWN SPOTS:
-Use a skin lightener. By combining exfoliation, skin lighteners and daily use of sunscreen, the pigmented cells will slowly start break down and fade their color. Exfoliation is beneficial for breaking up the pigmented cells while a skin-lightening agent like Vitamin C or Kojic Acid will suppress the melanin cells and accelerate the fading process.

FOR REDNESS AND ROSACEA:
-Avoid washing your skin with hot water. Cooler temperatures will keep reduce redness and keep the skin calm.
-Use soothing ingredients in your products. Chamomile, Azulene and Sea Whip all help to comfort the skin and reduce redness.
-Make sure you get facials that cater to sensitive skin. Although facials can be extremely calming for red skins, you must make sure that your esthetician has experience in caring for this very delicate type of skin. Avoid strong chemical peels as they will only exacerbate redness.

3 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING

Make a commitment to not pick at your skin. Acne breakouts usually last just 3-5 days, but when you pick at a blemish, the red mark that lingers can be there for three months! We know it's tempting, but you can make problem skin much worse by forcing bacteria deeper into the skin, resulting in scarring and further break outs. A better solution for problem skin is a regular facial schedule, where your pores can be cleaned professionally.

Cut back on the invasive skin treatments. If you have been having laser treatments or a series of skin peels, now is the time to start cutting back on those. You need to start going into maintenance mode. Hopefully, those aggressive procedures helped to clear up break outs, post-breakout acne scars and discoloration and now the focus is on maintaining the results. Get a professional facial every 3-4 weeks for the remaining three months.

1 MONTH BEFORE THE WEDDING

Go easy. Now that you're on the home stretch, it's not the time to be experimenting with new products or services. Keep everything gentle by backing off aggressive professional treatments.

Avoid dairy products if you're prone to acne cysts. Many people have heard that greasy foods and chocolate cause breakouts. Breakouts, especially those that are cyst-like in the chin and jaw line area, most often are related to too much ice cream, yogurt, milk and cheese. Try cutting back and watch your skin clear up!

Get at least 8 hours of sleep a night. Sleep is not only important to keep dark circles at bay, but it is also the time when your body is most metabolically active, ridding itself of toxins which would otherwise wreak havoc with your skin. Sleep also reduces stress, the #1 aggravator of acne! Keep your skin care products cold. When nerves are at their highest, it can cause increased blood flow to the skin. Try keeping your skin care products in the refrigerator. Cleansing, toning and moisturizing with cool temperature products keep the skin calm and soothed.

3 DAYS BEFORE THE WEDDING

Get your final facial. The facial should focus on skin smoothing via exfoliation and hydration. Keep extractions to a minimum to avoid unnecessary redness.

Don't experiment with any new products. You don't want to risk having an adverse reaction to anything--stick with tried and true.

Avoid shell fish. Especially for those who have travelled to a tropical island for their wedding, you'll be tempted with all the wonderful seafood that is there. Many people are allergic to iodine commonly found in shell fish which can result in very serious skin and body reactions, so now is not the time to be eating foods you have not tried before.

Limit your intake of alcohol. Alcohol leads to skin and under eye puffiness, so for every alcoholic drink, follow it with a 4-8 oz glass of water. This will help prevent unnecessary morning puffiness.

Avoid crying (if possible). With all of the celebratory speeches that are given, it's only normal that a few tears may be shed. If at all possible, try to avoid crying since it causes the eyes to swell resulting in excessive morning under eye puffiness.

WEDDING DAY

Apply a gel mask. Gel masks are water-based so they won't add any oil to the skin and interfere with wedding day makeup. They calm the skin from wedding day nerves, and gives your skin a smooth, healthy glow.

Drink a lot of water. To prevent skin from puffiness due to shedding tears or alcohol intake the night before, drink cold ice water throughout the day. This will also help prevent your mouth from getting dry due to nerves.

Practice deep breathing. There is nothing better to calm the nerves than frequent deep breathing. Relax. Enjoy. Your day is here.