MissWhoever You Are

M·A·C Hey Sailor

2012-05-29T09:00:00.000-04:00

When M·A·C's Hey Sailor collection landed on my desk, I did nothing short of squeal and Instagram the crap out of it. Here's a fun tidbit about me: I love anything nautical. New England, lighthouses, boats, Breton stripes, sailors -- you name it and I'd probably obsess over it. I blame it on my private school upbringing and days of getting lost in books that talked about escapes ad voyages. Although my wardrobe is anything but prep (one day!), I can't help but obsess. The fact that this came to me right when Fleet Week commenced in the city ---> DESTINY!

Decked out in sailor-striped packaging, M·A·C went IN on this collection (even using the word "flotilla," which means ship, in their press materials). Peep this, the full collection consists of over 30 (!!) items from eye shadows to nail polishes to makeup bags and backpacks. When M·A·C wants a theme, they GIVE you a theme.

This collection is so large, I'll have to break it down into several posts in order to give you the run down on each product I was either given or bought. In the meantime, I've listed all of the products available in the collection as well as a few swatches (pardon me but y'all know I'm not a swatcher).

Lipstick ($15.50)

Salute! Neutral peach (amplified)
To Catch a Sailor Highly frosted tan (Frost)
Red Racer Bright yellow red (Satin)
Sail La Vie Bright mid-tone orange (Satin)

Lipglass ($15.50)

Cut Loose White gold with pearl
Orange Tempera Pale peach (Repromote)
Blessedly Rich pale coral
Riviera Life Bright tangerine
Send Me Sailing Bright yellow red

Pro Longwear Lip Pencil ($19.00)

Saunter Pale nude beige
Throw Me a Line! Bright true red
Shore Leave Light vibrant coral

Eyeshadow ($16.00)

Crystal Avalanche White with reflects (Veluxe Pearl)
Barefoot Tarnished gold (Veluxe Pearl)
Jaunty Light yellow beige (Frost)
Feeling Fresh Bright green (Frost)
Nautical Navy blue (Satin)

Bronzing Powder ($24.00)

Soft Sand Golden bronze with fine gold pearl
Refined Golden Finely spun golden with soft pearl finish

Pro Longwear Bronzing Powder ($28.00)

Nude on Board Bronzy, yellow tone
Sun Dipped Dirty red tone

Top: Send Me Sailing Lipglass, Orange Tempera Lipglass
Left to Right: Sail La Vie, Red Racer, Salute! lipstick; Handforged and Blue Stripe power point eye pencils
Bottom: Throw Me a Line! lip pencil

High-Light Powder ($28.00)

Crew Soft peachy cream with fine shimmer

Powder Blush ($21.00)

Launch Away! True peach (Satin)
Fleet Fast Pinky, golden coral (Satin)

Nail Lacquer ($16.00)

Vestral White Cream white (Cream)
Touch of Red Bright yellow red (Cream)
Gold Knot Brass gold (Frost)

MAC To the Beach Body Oil ($22.50)

Seaside Dirty blush pink with multidimensional sparkle
Man Rays Glowing tan with multidimensional golden shimmer

Suntints SPF 20 ($16.00)

Sea Mist Peachy nude with multidimensional pearl
Abalone See through hot pink with no pearl
Au Rose Poppy coral pink with gold pearl

Powerpoint Eye Pencil ($16.00)

Handforged Metallic yellow gold
Emerald Sea Kelly green
Blue Stripe Dark navy

Pigment ($21.00)

Old Gold High frosted tarnished gold (Frost) (Permanent)
Naval Blue Deep smoky blue (Frost) (Permanent at PRO)

Brush ($34.00)

167SH Face Blender

Gone Sailing Makeup Bag Set ($35.00): navy-and-white striped canvas, replete with bright red patent edges and golden roped hardware closures
Gone Sailing Tote ($45.00): bucket-style canvas cinch tote

Currently available at M·A·C locations and www.maccosmetics.com

Pin It Disclosure: some samples provided for editorial consideration. Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

getting away from it all...

2012-05-28T11:45:00.001-04:00

y'all, I've been tired as all hell. The last couple of weeks have been taxing- emotionally, physically and mentally. There's a lot going on and all I want to do is escape. Go away. Vacation. What's worse is this year, I won't be going to Haiti to see my family (wahh!), so I'm just stuck. This is when I seek refuge in the spas and salons sprinkled throughout the city.

Enter Oasis Day Spa.

Tucked away on Park Avenue, Oasis Day Spa is a little gem in this big bad city. The staff is quick yet efficient with everything from checking in to pre-service relaxation. After checking in and locking away your personal items, you walk into the relaxation room - a dimly lit, tranquil space that allows you to wind down before (and after) your service. For my first ever Swedish massage (!!!), I was a tad bit nervous (do I get fully nekkid? Is this the one with the hot stones?) but my masseuse (heyyy, Leslie!) was kind and walked me through the entire process of what to expect and encouraged me to let her know what my limits were. Before I knew it, I was like butter as she gently applied light to medium pressure and made me forget the stresses of the world (if only for a moment). 60 minutes later I woke up, slightly embarrassed for falling asleep, but completely tension free.
I definitely recommend going if you're looking for a quick way to forget all of your troubles (and not deal with TSA!)

Oasis Day Spa's flagship is located at 1 Park Ave (between 32 & 33 Streets), New York, NY 10016 and offers everything from massages to facials to mani/pedi's all at an affordable rate.

Pin It Disclosure: I received a comp service. Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

motivation: stay fierce!

2012-05-16T00:48:00.001-04:00

pow!

How do you stay fun, fly, fabulous and fierce? I know it gets hard but it's all in your mind. Screw the negativity and silence the naysayers. Here's a little hump day motivation to keep your mojo on the go go (cheesey!):

Smile: it's amazing how this simple trick can alter our mood (thus how we act)
Do something selfish: we're always thinking about others so put yourself first for once
Maintain: keep your hair looking great, get a manicure, remember to blot. Not saying to be high maintenance but when you look good, you feel good. Also...
Exercise: when you feel good, you look good. It works both ways friends
Laugh: don't be so serious! I personally stick to this site to keep me rolling
Surround yourself with amazing people!!!!!

Whether you’re wearing your natural hair in tightly-coiled curls, loose ringlets, flowing waves or super straight, new Motions Naturally You products are specially-formulated to moisturize your hair with essential natural oils. Embrace the incredible beauty of your natural hair with Motions Naturally You. For more information visit us at http://bit.ly/zxbd4g. Beautiful hair deserves to be shared. Stay fabulous with us on Facebook and Twitter.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Motions via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Motions.

updated skincare regimen: AMBI to the rescue

2012-05-15T23:33:00.000-04:00

Over the past couple of week, my skin has not been behaving. I've been switching cleansers so often only because I've been desperate to find something that would aid in the random breakouts that's been popping up lately. Not that I haven't provoked my skin.

Hint: I have. Sleeping with makeup (I KNOW!), using harsh soaps, eating super gross foods. I've been bad and I know it.

When I received the AMBI® Skincare Regimen (includes: Even & Clear Foaming Cleanser, Even & Clear Daily Moisturizer, and Fade Cream) to test I couldn't have been more giddy. I'm always down to try new things and having seen the commercials for AMBI® I couldn't wait (primarily because Tika Sumpter stars in said commercials but that's neither here nor there).

Spoiler alert: I love the line.My favorite product of the trio would definitely have to be the Even and Clear Foaming Cleanser as I feel it's truly helped give me my best skin. Lightweight and non-drying, I noticed immediate results when it came to clearing out my pimples and calming down Mount Vesuvius on my forehead. I've also noticed my a bit more even skin tone. I've been able to step outside of my house without makeup for the past two weeks and not feel awkward or embarrassed. More people have been complimenting me on my skin and I can't tell you how that makes me feel. The one caveat: it doesn't remove waterproof makeup on the first try. Next I used the Even & Clear Daily Moisturizer. It took a while to get used to as it feels a bit greasy and thick at first but once you massage i in, the product soaked in my skin. While it's slightly thicker than I'm used to, I like the fact that it has SPF 30 (plus vitamins C and E) meaning, I can apply daily without worrying about adding another layer of product for protection. The cleanser and moisturizer is the one-two punch I needed in my regimen and I'm beyond glad I got to try them out.

The Fade Cream promises to diminish dark spots and discoloration. As I don't suffer from this problem I haven't really had much experience with the product to see if it lives up to it's claim.

Have you tried out AMBI® before? What are your thoughts?

The experts in skin of color, brings you a skin care regimen to help you achieve flawless skin. Use AMBI®’s Even and Clear Foaming Cleanser to help clear breakouts and reduce dark marks. Follow with Even & Clear Daily Moisturizer, so skin will look even and smooth. And AMBI®’s #1 rated Fade Cream, diminishes dark spots and discoloration, for a beautiful and natural skin tone.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by AMBI® via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of AMBI®. Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

{weekend wear}

2012-05-13T10:13:00.000-04:00

blouse: H&M; jeans: Hudson Jeans; shoes: Shoe Dazzle; bag: Rebecca Minkoff; watch: Anthropologie; bangle: Kate Spade; rings: Kate Spade and Giles and Brother

Yesterday's outfit was just a casual one since my day consisted of brunch and a quick preview The Makeup Show in NYC. The Makeup Show consists of two full days of the newest beauty products, seminars, forums and hands-on workshops all for makeup industry pros. Makeup artists and students come to learn about the newest lines and product launches as well as hear from a few of the biggest names (Johnny Lavoy, Ricky Wilson, and Crystal Wright to name a few) on how to grow themselves as an artist and business.

This is also the first year where a Career Fair is being introduced (only 400 attendees allowed!) Also, launching at this event is a limited edition brush line. The full set of 13 - created by makeup artists James Vincent, Jon Hennessey, Orlando Santiago, and Danessa Myricks - each personalized with each individual The Makeup Show Artist’s signature to mark their essential tools, technique and style.

The Makeup Show NYC 2012 is a pro-only event happening May 13th and 14th.

Pin It Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

{this weekend} things to do and see in nyc

2012-05-04T19:06:00.001-04:00

Today was a whirlwind but all I have on my mind are the plethora of events and, more importantly, sample sales that are happening next week and beyond in New York City (sorry out of town readers!). Below are a few three things I'm looking forward to starting this weekend:

This summer, Bar III is going on a style tour from coast to coast. They're visiting some of the country's most exciting flea markets with Song of Style blogger Aimee Song and winner of the Refinery 29 Next Big Style Blogger Contest, Danielle Bernstein from We Wore What. First stop? Hester Street Fair on Saturday and Greenflea on Sunday in NYC.

Botkier sample sale ends on Sunday and rumour has it there's been additional markdowns!

Lastly, Rebecca Minkoff Sample Sale! No need to intro this but y'all know I love me some Minkoff. While it starts next Wednesday I had to talk about it now. Her sample sales are super popular and definitely draws a crowd. Get there in the beginning for the popular items that sell out fast but at the end for major discounts.

Have a great weekend!

Pin It Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

sweet escape -- haven spa pediterranean

2012-05-03T10:00:00.000-04:00

my favorite local NYC spa, Haven Spa, have added a new pedicure service for the warmer weather, sweetly called The Pediterranean. Inspired by the summertime in Sicily, this seasonal treatment kicks off with a scented foot bath infused with orange, lemon and tomato notes that's then polished and buffed with a salt scrub and nourishing oil blend. To complete the experience, a luxurious shea and cocoa body butter infused with the delicate scents of Neroli, Bergamot, and Citrus is applied. While receiving the Pediterranean, you get to select from six colors from Dolce & Gabbana's spring/summer 2012 nail polish collection as that, too, was inspired by southern Italy and the passion of the Mediterranean.

All of this is done, mind you, while you sip on a complimentary cup of iced grapefruit soda that contains a hint of Solerno Blood Orange Liquor. Yum!

Haven Spa is located at 150 Mercer St. between Houston and Prince in NYC.

Pin It Disclosure: I received this service gratis. Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

M·A·C Fashion Sets

2012-05-02T10:00:00.000-04:00

above: lipsticks, lipglass and nail polishes in Myth, Girl About Town, Russian Red and Snob.

Rebel in New York, Saint Germain in Seoul, Morange in Paris, Russian Red in Dubai - the must–have lip shades that M·A·C fans around the world reach for, and fall in love with, over and over again. Colours so globally gorgeous we worked them into 3-piece collections of go- everywhere lipstick, lipglass and nail lacquer trios in 7 classic palettes that are perfectly coordinated and regionally inspired. Wherever you are, tip and lip the scale in your fashion favour.

When you hear that your favorite lipsticks are being turned into lipglosses and nail polishes, there is only one acceptable response: HELL YES! Girl About Town and Russian red are bees-knees and I'm glad to have them for my tips (and gloss form because sometimes a girl doesn't want to deal with precise lipstick retouches).

One of the biggest trends to come out of the recent shows was matching nails to your lip color and M·A·C's Fashion Sets collection makes it one easy process. There are seven colors total available in lipstick, lipglass and nail polish forms. Below are the colors available in the North America collection.

Myth: Light neutral nude
Snob: Light neutral pink
Spice: Mid-tone neutral nude
Girl About Town: Bright blue fuchsia
Russian Red: Mid-tone neutral red
Rebel: Mid-tone cream plum
Chestnut: Rich chocolate brown

The collections are being released in store regionally SO if for Asia Pacific that's Impassioned, Saint Germain, Peachstock, Razzledazzler, Angel, Morange, and Ravishing. Europe and Africa is Morange, Spice, Myth, Rebel, Impassioned, Russian Red, and Saint Germain. Latin America and the Middle East, you get Please Me, Girl About Town, Pink Nouveau, Russian Red, Snob, Impassioned, and Morange. BUT if you're like me and want a Morange and Saint Germain lipgloss/nail lacquer, you can head online to purchase. God bless the internetz.

Available for a limited time from May 3, 2012 through June 28, 2012.

Pin It Disclosure: samples given for editorial consideration. Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

M·A·C In Extra Dimension

2012-05-01T10:00:00.000-04:00

Introducing a NEW liquid-powder hybrid formula with prismatic reflections that instantly sculpts, highlights and models the face to the desired effect – In Extra Dimension. Two formulas to try: the three shades of Extra Dimension Skinfinish and the ten shimmering tints of Extra Dimension Eye Shadow. This cool, creamy, silky, near-fluid formula creates a luminous, visually arresting, well-defined finish. -- M·A·C Cosmetics

M·A·C's In Extra Dimension collection (available in stores now) is quite beautiful. In fact, it's so beautiful, I've been too afraid to use the products (LOL!). From swatching a few, I love the creamy and soft consistency.

For now, let's stare at the beauty of the products, okay?

Pin It Disclosure: samples were provided. Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

For Dessert: Freeze 24-7

2012-04-30T10:30:00.000-04:00

About a week ago, I learned about Freeze 24-7 and a few products in their lineup. I've heard about the brand before but never tried the products -- boy have I been missing out! Immediately after using the products I couldn't stop touching my face (bad habit but Christ my was soft!) Freeze 24-7® incorporates the latest innovations in anti-aging skincare solutions in safe and effective products

Skin Glacé™ Daily Detoxifying Cleanser and Mask ($65)
"...contains a proprietary complex of Bio-transformed Rice Bran and Hydrolyzed Soy Protein for deep cleansing, maximum skin purification, detoxification and hydration"
This daily cleanser works to remove impurities and leave you with smooth, supple skin. At first it feels like a gel and is cool to the touch. As you work it in, it foams up and rinses away without drying out the skin. Skin Glacé™ can also be used as a mask by leaving the foam on for 1-2 minutes then washing.

Freeze 24-7® IceCream Double Scoop™ Intensive Anti-Aging Moisturizer ($105)
After using the cleanser, I applied Double Scoop - a thick cream that hydrates and nourishes skin. Luxurious and moisturizing, IceCream Double Scoop™ contains ingredients that hydrates the skin while fighting free radical damage and stress with L-Carnosine & Green Tea Extract. While anti-aging isn't my primary concern, it helps to start a bit early.

Pictured above are two additional Freeze & Go (a smoother and brightener that eliminates the look of large pores) as well as Wrinkle Treatment but I haven't tried those yet.

Freeze 24-7 products are available online and high end retailers near you.

Pin It Disclosure: products given for editorial consideration. Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

in my shower: cremo shave cream + body wash

2012-04-29T22:01:00.000-04:00

Having never heard of the brand Cremo, I was intrigued when told of their hero product, Cremo Cream Shave Cream. Described as "super-slick," I wanted to try out the wonder product - created by Kyle Schroeder and Mike Boone - to see if nicks would become a thing of the past for real.

For the past two (or so years) I've been using men's shaving products because they just seem to work. Nicks and cuts are rare and my legs are left super smooth. Needless to say this brand had a lot to live up to. Luckily, I fell in love because shaving was quick and easy. My razor (Schick Hydro Silk) glides effortlessly along my skin without cutting or irritating my legs, underarms or wherever. According to the brand, the shaving cream contains "molecules that become impossibly slick when mixed with water" - what these molecules are, I'd love to know.

Also taking up prime real estate in my shower is the Cremo Wash. While created for face, I use this all over as it's super gentle but completely effective in removing makeup, dirt and other impurities. Soap free and filled with botanical oils, I take this to the gym with me for post Zumba showering (one product for face and body? Yes, please!) While it doesn't contain soap, the wash contains Laureth Sulfate (SLS) a detergent that foams pretty easily and acts like soap. Please note: SLS is a detergent and can irritate skin to be careful if you have super sensitive skin. I, personally, haven't had any issues with this product except for feeling a titch dry post shower (nothing a little moisturizer can't fix).

Cremo products are available online.

Pin It Disclosure: I was given samples for editorial consideration. Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

laid back...

2012-04-25T10:00:00.000-04:00

jacket: Express; blouse: Rachel Roy; jeans: Forever 21; bag: Orla Kiely (gifted); shoes: shoe dazzle; laptop: Dell (gifted by Intel)

there are some days I don't have any quck tidbits to share, inspiration to give, witty remarks to impart. this is one of those days.

Pin It

quick post: how to rock denim shorts...

2012-04-24T00:19:00.000-04:00

so Coachella was this past weekend and while I didn't get to go (womp), I did make it a point to catch up with videos on YouTube and street style photos to get inspired. At 106 degrees, the desert home to Coachella is just one place for me to get summer style inspiration. One summer piece I can't wait to rock is the ubiquitous denim shorts. They're perfect! I never realized just how versatile they were until I spotted a few looks from the weekend as well as pics of celebs out and about.

Rock & Republic Thorn Mesh Tank, Rock & Republic Bonnaroo Frayed Denim Shorts, Rock & Republic T-Strap Sandals

The easiest, most carefree way to rock denim shorts is the laid back method. Throw on a tank top and pair it with beachy sandals and you're out the door!

OR...

Rock & Republic Brushstroke Peasant Top, Rock & Republic Bonnaroo Frayed Denim Shorts, Rock & Republic High Heels

...doll 'em up with a flowy, feminine top and heels and you're ready for a summer date night!

What's your denim short style?

Pin It Disclosure: Kohl's provided compensation to me as an incentive to blog about the Rock & Republic launch event. The opinions expressed herein are those of this author, and they have not been reviewed or approved by Kohl's in advance. Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

Inside Generation Style (featuring ME!)

2012-04-23T12:02:00.000-04:00

no makeup!

remember when I told you how I planned on getting my fierce on? I planned on channeling Mama Naomi and sashay down the runway, smizing and all. Well, it didn't quite turn out that way and if you watch the livestream, you'll see that I was petrified of falling.

My fear aside, it was an INCREDIBLE event! I, alongside 15 other fun and fabulous bloggers, walked the Inside Generation Style catwalk - a collab between Intel and Independent Fashion Bloggers (IFB).

Who is Generation Style? Us. You. Me. Those of us who take to the internet to dish what we love, want and need more of. I can't tell you how much technology has made an impact in my life. From on-the-go tweeting to daily photo uploads to, yes, this blog - I rely on gadgets making technology an ever present factor in my day to day.

Check out the looks I wore below and pics from the show!

KamaliKulture U-Neck Chemise in red (available here); shoes by Just Fabulous; BaubleBar jewelry; laptop c/o Intel

Orla Kiely Macrame jacket, bodysuit, and shorts; shoes by Just Fabulous; BaubleBar jewelry

group shot! All photos by Dustin Fenstermacher.

It was so great meeting new bloggers (and some of you! Thanks for coming!) as well as work with the IFB team.

Pin It Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

it's like going on vacation, but not...

2012-04-19T18:47:00.000-04:00

cupcake not included (but that would be nice!)

Some things just happen at the right time. This arrived at my desk when I felt slightly hurried, hungry for lunch but too busy to actually eat. One whiff of the body cream and I was instantly (mentally) transported to an island getaway, sipping a coconut wearing a killer bikini. For approximately five seconds I was relaxed and comfy.

Carol's Daughter Ocean Bath & Body Collection is the perfect mix of fresh and sweet. A crisp scent, it reminds me of candy but not in a saccharine sweet (read: annoying) way. It's yummy. Delicious. Beautiful. It opens with a lemon burst and fruity notes, closely followed by floral and marine accords. At the heart of the scent lies Water Lily and Lavender -- cool and calming.

This is said to be best for women with normal to dry skin for a long lasting, fresh scent. Created in 1993, this scent is so popular the brand decided to relaunch it despite being discontinued some time ago. Power to the people!

This collection (cleansing gel, body cream and dry mist) will be available starting May 5, 2012 exclusively on HSN. For the eager, Carol's Daughter is hosting a fun contest on their Facebook page where you can win the entire collection.

Pin It Disclosure: samples provided for editorial consideration. Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you

why don't you...vol. 14

2012-04-15T20:55:00.000-04:00

Remember when I used to do the "Why Don't You" series? Gosh, it's been a long time, right? To be honest, I found myself running out of ideas, so instead of feeding you BS I simply stopped. Lately, I've been itching to try new things and what better way than to write them down, right? Laziness aside, I'm reinvigorating this column!

rock an orange pout. I've been trying them out a bit more and have fallen head over heels
wear frilly dresses to work/ school/ wherever
if you're office or school is conservative, try something in pale pink., green, or blues. Just because Easter is over, doesn't mean you should stop wearing pastels!
saw this on Glitter Guide and had to share: the girls of Honestly...WTF has a DIY version of Stella McCartney's Falabella iPad case. Try it out here.
smile more
Like! ;)

Have a great week!

Pin It Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

sephora pantone

2012-04-13T09:09:00.000-04:00

Sephora and Pantone Universe have joined forces to present the Color of the Year beauty collection starring the vibrant Tangerine Tango.

Having declared orange as my power color for 2012 (or at least one of them), I ran to Sephora to redeem a VIB coupon I received in the mail. The full collection looks gorgeous but I won't lie, it's a bit expensive. The lipstick ($18) is super creamy and full on orange. It's a dark hue on my lips, which left me slightly disappointed. I was hoping for something bright (like MAC's Morange) but this is more of a daytime orange (if such a thing were to exist). To top it all off, it's not long lasting.

Would I recommend this lipstick? Not really. There are definitely better lipsticks out there but if, like me, you're a sucker for packaging and don't mind reapplication it's okay.

Sephora + Pantone collection is available now.

Pin It Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

M·A·C Reel Sexy

2012-04-12T10:11:00.001-04:00

M·A·C Reel Sexy

RSVP now for a private screening starring an iconic model as big as anyone who’s ever graced the screen: Kristen McMenamy, photographed and filmed by Miles Aldridge. What is she watching as she laughs, cries and sits mesmerized in a surreal cinema where popcorn is pink, fingernails fierce and the wardrobe minimal? Obviously, it’s REEL SEXY. Miss McMenamy’s bright, bold and brilliant look features a colour collection of enigmatic Eye Shadow Duos, Vivid Lipstick, Creamsheen Glass, Eye Kohl, Powder Blush, Lighscapade Mineralize Skinfinish, Nail Lacquer and Zoom Lash. -- MAC Cosmetics

Sure to be a hit, M·A·C's Reel Sexy is full of corals, purples and blues -- colors that embody fearlessness yet has something for everybody. This collection is quintessential M·A·C in the sense that it doesn't disappoint with pigment and color. While the products aren't new to the line, there are a few items that I'd highly recommend.

M·A·C eye kohl in Heirloom (highly metallicized greyed lavendar) and Hyacinth (a dirtied mid-tone blue). Hyacinth is definitely a must have due to it's deepness. I see this being used on the lower lash line, slightly smoked out.

Ah, yes, the nail polishes. All of these are amazing and I can't say get one without the other. From left to right: In the Dark...Purple (vivid violet), Screening Room (bright mid-tone teal), and Vivid Effect (vivid orange coral). All three are creme formulas - the best in my opinion - meaning they apply smoothly and look great with two coats.

This is creme de la creme (get it?) in the collection. M·A·C's Cremesheen Glasses are my favorites because they're pigmented and can replace lipstick in a snap!From top to bottom: Cinestyle (mid-tone grey violet), Colour Saturation (dark cool wine), Star Quality (bright orange coral), and Private Screening (mid-tone peach). I love Star Quality but the winner here is Colour Saturation. Such a deep wine looks great against dark skin and can stand alone with neural eye makeup and slightly bronzed cheeks. I'm not normally one for wines but this one doesn't look too dark on.

The lipsticks in this collection are nice to haves in the collection. From left to right: Reel Sexy (light bright coral) this is an amplified formula meaning it's creamy and applies slightly smoothly. Watch Me Simmer is a bright pink-orange. Not pictured here are two purple shares one a lavender (Pink Popcorn) and a bright purple (Heroine).

Pro palette eye shadow x2 in Dyanimic Duo 1 (top) and 2 (bottom). Dynamic Duo 1 consists of a coral with yellow pearl and clean purple. Dynamic Duo 2 is a violet duochrome with pearl and clean violet. The mattes aren't the easiest to apply but with a bit of primer and blending, you can get some pretty looks outta these guys.

Pin It Disclosure: samples provided for editorial consideration. Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

it's like sex in a bottle

2012-04-11T09:43:00.000-04:00

that, or something like it, was what my friend Dina told me of Kiehl's Musk Essence Oil. According to Kiehl's their musk oil has been around since the 1920's and was discovered in the Kiehl's Apothecary, labeled as "Love Oil" no less, in the late 50's. I bought the oil after Dina's declaration and was not disappointed. Until I lost it somewhere in the abyss of my overly crowded bedroom. Too lazy to search for it, I simply bought another and was reminded of the heady yet sexiness of the scent. I loved it to the point where I stocked up on the body lotion AND eau de toilette (above). Obsessive much? Perhaps.

Kiehl's Original Musk is warm and cozy and completely changes your attitude. I'm a huge fans of musks because of the warmth they provide when applied. What you smell in the beginning is what you get hours later - a little bit floral (bergamot nectar and ylang-ylang are among the top and mid notes) with an oriental finish of white patchouli, musk and tonka nut.

The eau de toilette spray is available for $42.50, while the roller ball is $26. Heck, do what I did and go for the lotion ($20) as well.

Pin It

Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

a night with hairstylist hary josh + new from john frieda

2012-04-10T11:26:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago, I had dinner with hairstylist, Harry Josh. Of course I wasn't the only blogger there but in my head that's how it went down.

Harry is probably the most bubbly and excited person and his enthusiasm throughout the evening was supremely infectious. As John Frieda's International Creative Consultant, Harry Josh knows his products! He spoke to us about the brand's newest products Frizz-Ease Sheer Solution, Full Repair Style Revival, and Precision Foam Colour Salon Blends

The Frizz-Ease Sheer Solution ($9.99) is a lightweight frizz reducer for those with fine o medium hair. As someone with fine hair, I know the perils of trying to use something to tame frizz -- the after effect is weighed down, greasy hair. Ick! This new solution promises to control frizz via a simple shake-to-activate formula. It's part lightweight serum and part smoothing elixir that hydrates while working.

Also new to the brand is the Full Repair Style Revival ($8.99). Full Repair Style Revival is a heat-activated styling spray, designed to help protect against breakage and damage. Formulated with Inca Inchi Oil, a heat protectant, that adds manageability, body and hold to any style. Apply this before using your heated styling tools to protect from further damage and keep your style all day.

Lastly, John Frieda has added 10 new shades to their Precision Foam Colour ($12.99). The foam activated color started a major trend and has made hair coloring super easy. When coloring your hair at home, the biggest tip you can follow is to READ the instructions says Josh. Don't skip over them assuming you know what to do. Also, don't go no more than two shades than your original color. The new shade offers a bit more precision for the blondes, redheads and brunettes out there.

Check your local retailer for the latest John Frieda products.

Pin It Disclosure: I attended a press event and received samples for consideration. Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

nude

2012-04-09T18:04:00.000-04:00

coat: H&M; blouse: Forever 21; jeans: Rock & Republic (gifted); shoes: Marchez Vous (client/gifted); bag: Zara

It seems as if NYC can't decide whether it should be cold or warm. Getting ready in the morning has become a mental game in which I dress for both and pray for the best (hello trench coat and open shoes). But I'm not going to complain, especially when I'm greeted with beauties like this..

Pin It Disclosure: Marchez Vous is a client at my company. Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

M·A·C Très Cheek

2012-04-09T08:26:00.002-04:00

Over the last couple of weeks, all I can hear women around me chatting about is the naughty book that's hit mainstream, 50 Shades of Grey. To say I haven't read the series would be a flat out lie. Girl, I read it and reread it. Though poorly written, I couldn't help but fall deeply into the trilogy. And noticed that Ana flushed way too much - girl, needs to man up.

Where does this come into play? Am I sending you off the the land of Christian Grey (yes) or is this something deeper? Actually, not deep at all. I just needed an intro to my post...

(don't mind the lipsticks, I just added those there for decoration haha. they're from MAC's Reel Sexy collection)

Everyone loves when you blush. Fashioning your choices: A new sextet of M·A·C blush powders. Go hip in bright red-orange, or add a glorious touch of peach, pink or lavender – each shade staying as bright and un-beige on the skin as it is in the palette. With a formula that’s seamlessly sheer and unabashedly buildable, what do you get? A look that says Très Cheek.

M·A·C Cosmetics' latest collection (available now) is all about blush, the oft forgotten step in many women's makeup routine. Why some ladies skip it, is beyond me. I love a little blush to wake me up, make me feel that much more feminine, and (sometimes) playful. Ana Steele style.

Again, I'm just using this post to talk about the book...don't mind me.

Comprised of six shades, the blushes in Très Cheek are satiny, easy to blend, and just what you need for spring into summer. The colors above are Lovecloud (mid-tone pink), Peony Petal (blue pink), and Modern Mandarin (Red-orange). No surprise here, but I'm in love with the playful pinks of Peony Petal and the slightly bold orange of Modern Mandarin.

M·A·C Très Cheek is available on counter, in stores and online now.

Pin It Disclosure: samples provided for editorial consideration. Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

in which I plan to channel my inner Naomi

2012-04-06T19:09:00.001-04:00

FRIDAY! Has a nice ring to it, non? I barely survived this week but I have AMAZING news on the homefront. Yours truly has been selected to MODEL in IFB and Intel's upcoming "Inside Generation Style" show.

Fifteen of us will strut our stuff down the runways with Ultrabooks™, wearing pieces from KamaliKulture and Orla Kiely. Hair will be styled by ARROJO Studio and accessories by Bauble Bar and JustFabulous.

This is my moment in the sun and I fully intend on channeling my spirit animal Naomi Campbell. The best part, you can watch it all unfold as Intel will be livestreaming the event on their Facebook page!

If you’re in the NYC area and would like to attend, RSVP here: RSVP@HeartIFB.com.

In the meantime...

and...

Pin It Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

bright spot

2012-04-04T20:06:00.000-04:00

Running out of the office to quickly snap photos of my excessively bright pants? Why not!

blouse: z spoke by zac spoken (gifted); jeans: goldy and mac; shoes: marchez vous (gifted); bag: rebecca minkoff delight bag (gifted); bangle: kate spade; watch: juicy couture

One of the joys of working in social media (professionally) AND having a fashion blog (for fun) is that I work with great brands and the people behind them then show them to you. Case in point: Marchez Vous, a shoe line created by actress, author, superwoman, etc. Yeardley Smith. After hearing Yeardley speak so passionately about her new line (debuted in Fall 2011), it was hard not to love the styles and different personalities (yes, each shoe has a different "personality"). Below I'm wearing Inés, who is described as a principal by day and a dancer at the Moulin Rouge by night. She's sexy and she knows. A classic black pump (something I, oddly, did not have in my closet until now) that's cute and comfy. Having worn this shoe all day at work and later at an event my feet were crying tears of joy instead of anguish. Brava Yeardley, brava.

The bag was a gift I received after attending the launch event. Designed by designer Rebecca Minkoff on behalf of mark cosmetics, it keeps the same edgy aesthetic of Minkoff's designer line but available at a much lower price point. As mark has been doing the makeup at her runway shoes over the last couple of seasons, this collaboration was a natural fit. The Delight bag, as it's called, retails for $60 and is available now.

Thanks for stopping by!

Pin It Disclosure: Marchez Vous is a client at my company. Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.

Beauty Faves of the Moment

2012-03-27T11:23:00.000-04:00

With so many beauty products in rotation in my makeup bag, I rarely ever keep the same item twice throughout the week but recently I haven't been able to leave the house without the items above.

First up are lip products "Force of Love" lipstick and lipglass from MAC's M·A·C Chenman collection (available now). When I first received the press info, I knew nothing out Chen Man (陳曼) but after researching a bit, I am thoroughly impressed. Chen Man is the star of the Chinese fashion photography world, capturing color and sensuality in every photograph. The M·A·C collaboration was inspired by the artist’s fascination with love and water (represented by the colors pink and blue). Force of Love lipstick ($14.50) is a matte lipstick described as a vivid honeysuckle pink. It's not a shade for the faint of heart and goes on as seen in the tube. I layer Force of Love lipglass ($14.50) over the lipstick just to add a bit of shine (I'm not generally a fan of MAC's matte lip colors). The lipglass is the same shade but softer (obviously since it's a gloss). As a bright pink aficionado, this has quickly become my go to color combo.

Now if you know anything about me, you know I love a good foundation. Anything that can even out my skin tone and deal with the oil factory known as my face is key in my book. Sadly, not many foundations can do both. At the same time. Until now. Laura Mercier's Oil Free Suprême Foundation (available on counter in April) provides ultimate coverage. Oil-free and lightweight, this goes on evenly, lasts all day (no joke) and remains matte. This is a vitamin-rich foundation is made of soothing and anti-aging ingredients including aloe and green leaf tea extract. I'm absolutely in LOVE with this foundation and am amazed at just how flawless my face looks from the start of the day until I wash it off. My only problem is that it dries FAST! If you don't blend immediately, you run into issues where you're trying to work settled in foundation and it's not a good time. I compare this to the holy grail of foundations (in my book), Revlon's ColorStay, MINUS the heavy feeling. Which means Revlon might be dethroned (sorry guys!).

What are you loving lately?

Pin It Disclosure: products given for editorial consideration. Please don't forget that you can still help the people of Haiti, donate to the Red Cross today. Thank you.