Beauty Blogging Junkie

The Magical Manicure

2013-06-17T08:07:00.000-04:00

By Julia Casella

Essie's new neon collection: magical manicure fodder?

If you read Glamour then I’m sure you are familiar with the “ Engagement Chicken”

story:

It all began 26 years ago, when then-Glamour fashion editor Kim Bonnell gave the recipe to her assistant, Kathy Suder, who made the chicken for her boyfriend, who, a month later, asked her to marry him. “It’s a meal your wife would make. It got me thinking,” says Jon Suder, who now has three children with Kathy. Details of the simple dish passed from assistant to assistant like a culinary chain letter. When Bonnell heard that her recipe had inspired three weddings, she dubbed it Engagement Chicken.

The recipe can be found here and make sure to read all the “ it happened to me”

comments below. While I haven’t made the chicken, I’m also not looking to get

engaged within the next few months. However recently I was waiting for a certain

someone to text me and the best way to stop compulsively checking your phone is to

get a manicure, no? I always read polish names and when I picked up a fire engine

red that so appropriately included the bad-texter’s place of birth, I knew I had to

get it. The next day he texted and thus the Magical Manicure was born.

So how do you pick a Magic Mani color? Basically it should reference the person in a

fairly specific way—this doesn’t mean picking a color called “ cute” because you

think they are cute. It means if you like a banker get Essie’s Tour de Finance or if

you have a crush on a German cutie get Deutsch you want me baby? An artist=

Poppy art pink and a bartender = Mojito Madness.

And if you want a fool-proof approach wear essie’s Show me the ring and bake the

chicken.

Have you tried the Magical Manicure yet?

Follow Julia on Twitter.

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Destination: Procrastination

2013-06-14T16:47:00.002-04:00

As I head to Vegas for this year's Miss USA pageant tomorrow, I'm living for The Cut's roundup of winners since the 1950s.
[The Cut]

Birchbox Man has teamed up with SUITS (one of my favorite shows--living for Harvey) on a DVD giveaway
[Birchbox Man Facebook]

10 foods that make cellulite disappear
[The Luxury Spot]

The deets on the J.Crew Madewell sample sale
[Eye4Style]

Judy Blume on "Tiger Eyes," surviving depression and more
[Betty Confidential]

3 ways to wear a Juicy Couture printed shirtdress
[Sydne Style]

The Standard Watermelon Martini how-to
[Queen of the Quarter Life Crisis]

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3 Pedicures To Try For The Color-Shy

2013-06-14T11:15:00.000-04:00

Are you a nude or pink purist when it comes to pedicures? It takes baby steps to ease into bright nail hues for the uninitiated. When I was a financial writer at a mutual fund, I'd get looks if I wore any color of the Crayola eight-pack other than red, pink or purple on my hands, so I eased my coworkers into the hot nail shade trend (well, I tried, anyway) with neon versions of these shades. This tactic will work for bright pedis, as well, if you're feeling a bit timid about going all out. Here are some of my current favorites.

Make sure you devote ample dry time — at least 30 minutes — if you're planning on wearing closed-toed shoes after you apply.

1. Red
A bright poppy red like CoverGirl Outlast Stay Brilliant Nail Gloss in Ever Reddy becomes even more electric when it's layered over a single coat of white polish. Try a coat of CoverGirl Outlast Stay Brilliant Nail Gloss in Snow Storm first for a show-stopping effect in your sassiest peep-toes.

2. Coral

This shade can lean a tinge more pink, orange or red, depending on your mood. For instance, CoverGirl Outlast Stay Brilliant Nail Gloss in Coral Silk skews more orange, while its Coy Coral counterpart leans toward the pink end of the spectrum. Try three coats to amp up opacity. Make sure you devote ample dry time — at least 30 minutes — if you're planning on wearing closed-toed shoes after you apply.

Read about the 3rd pedicure over at P&G Everyday: http://bit.ly/ZOMobL.

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Eyeko Mascara Wardrobe Review

2013-06-13T08:48:00.000-04:00

This week, Official Mascara Correspondent Ashleigh Ciucci test-drives the epic new Eyeko Mascara Wardrobe, which boasts three brushes for a single tube so you can lengthen lashes any way you want. Is it worth it? Find out.

Eyeko has done something really cool with this mascara set. In one box, you get one mascara tube with three different interchangeable brushes.

One brush offers the capability to DEFINE. The curved brush with soft bristles works well with the creamy formula to give good lift and lash coverage. There was good definition with my lashes looking thick and tapered.

However, with a second coat, my lashes got a bit clumpy. But I got a good look if I just combed out the product that clumped at the tips. The CURL brush is the fanciest of the three brushes; it's straight with three bristle balls. While it's cool-looking, it doesn't give as much curl as it offers. I found that if I twisted the brush while combing through from the top of my lashes (as opposed to brushing up from the underside of the lash) I got a moderate amount of curl with soft separation. I got an extra boost of curl by holding back the tips with the brush as the second coat dried (but you can use this trick with any old mascara.)

Finally, the VOLUME brush is thick and fat a la Benefit's Bad Gal or Dior Show. This was my least favorite of the brushes; I found that my lashes never really bulked up and actually clumped together in tiny spikes rather than spread out. It's possible that this brush shape needs a thicker-textured mascara formula. I love the concept of this trio of brushes. The mascara tube itself is squishy so you can squeeze the tube while your chosen brush is inside to get the most gook on the bristles. The only thing that would make this cooler is if it came with some sort of carrying case for the set. Oh! and it washes off easily with soap and water.--Ashleigh Ciucci

Eyeko Mascara Wardrobe retails for $28 at sephora.com. Is this a product you'd like to add to your arsenal? Sound off in the comments.

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Barry's Bootcamp Review

2013-06-12T08:33:00.000-04:00

Barry's Bootcamp Chief Operating Officer, Joey Gonzalez

Barry's Bootcamp is one of the most popular new boutique fitness crazes in NYC. And with spicy instructors like Joey Gonzalez, pictured above, is it any wonder? Birchbox invited me to attend a class to promote their partnership with Women's Health, so because my fitness motto is "I'll try anything once," I road-tested the hour-long class, even though I heard it was heavy on running--my least favorite workout of them all. Here's how I fared.

The pros:
No one was yelling at you in a bootcamp-y way. Joey was motivating, but not irritatingly so nor pushily so. We did a tush section that rivaled that of Core Fusion's or Physique 57's, so it was old hat for me. It was a hands and knees, pushing your leg back several times in a row on both sides kind of deal. Difficult for someone new to it, but it's effective. The hour didn't drag on as much as I thought it would. Switching from running to weights to seat work and back again broke up the time so that I couldn't get too tired of any one thing.

The cons:
I'm not going to lie--the running was INTENSE. Like, Joey was telling us to go 12.0 (miles per hour) which is just faster than I ran when I ran track in high school (obviously I wasn't good at it, even then--but still). I'm normally a 7.0 at a MAXIMUM, so that was quite a leap. I understand you work up to a faster rate, but I couldn't even FEIGN doing that for a single minute. Literally. It was kind of disheartening. Also, the weight situation. In Flywheel and Core Fusion, I lift 6 lbs total. Here? I think we were told to grab 2 10-lb weights, and it felt like we did a ton of reps. Difficult, but, again, this class does seem to be crazy effective. You also have to buy or bring your own water, which irritates me, but isn't the end of the world. Classes are $34 each, which is expensive, but pretty standard. You can score a slight discount when purchasing a package.

All in all, I'd go back, but I think I'd need to start a running routine before doing this one regularly. While the running was difficult for me, overall, the class was a SNEEZE compared to Bassett's Bootcamp at Pure Yoga. Barry, you got nothing on Loren Bassett. Are you a Barry's Bootcamp fan?

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Thank You, Joan Rivers

2013-06-11T08:18:00.000-04:00

By Carol (my mother)

Fiercely smart, funny-as-hell, perfectly put together, yes, but who knew Joan Rivers was the guru of gams? Well, maybe those of you who watch QVC – I don’t happen to. Nevertheless, I did see an ad for her as-seen-on TV leg make-up and made a beeline for the nearest department store that sold it.

Does it work? You bet. From Joan Rivers Beauty, The Right to Bare Legs (subtitled “Corrective cover-up for fabulous legs in a flash”) is a godsend to women of a certain age. As Ms. Rivers says, “Panty hose I can live without.” But when faced with old lady legs – you know, those thin-skinned, bluish-veined shins, calves, etc., only a serious substitute will do.

Yet it’s not really age-specific. According to the blister pack container, it “Covers imperfections instantly: bruises, spider veins, varicose veins, scars, tattoos…Blends easily for perfect coverage…Waterproof and will not transfer off.” I can readily attest to all three claims.

The cream comes in three shades – Fair, Medium and Dark and includes excellent instructions along with helpful tips.

Joan Rivers says “I’ll never give up my skirts.” We shouldn’t either.

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Lash Extensions: Courtney Akai Debunks The Myths For You

2013-06-10T08:40:00.000-04:00

Fact: Everyone seems to have a revisionist history of how often they shed lashes before getting extensions. OBVIOUSLY, like the drama extensions impart on your gaze, they'll also provide to a shed lash, which looks like a much bigger deal when strapped with the cargo of a thick, silk reinforcement. This is just one of the several questions I'm asked about my lash extensions on a regular basis. For years, I've trusted my fringe to Courtney Akai of Courtney Akai Lash Boutique, who's extended the lashes of many celebs. Here, she clarifies what's true and what's not when it comes to extensions.

MYTH 1: Lash Extensions aren't safe because of the glue used and can cause an eye infection – or worse.

First, it's important to understand the difference between an allergic reaction and an infection. A licensed and experienced lash technician will not let an infection occur, but if you’re allergic to the glue, you’re still going to be allergic – this doesn’t mean the glue is harmful. The first thing you can do is make sure that the glue being used is made in the United States so you know that it's fresh and safe. Courtney Akai’s glue, approved by ophthalmologists, is made domestically verses many lash houses that use glues produced in China. Glues manufactured overseas often contain formaldehyde, which can build up by the time the product reaches the salon. As for trying to prevent an allergic reaction, your technician should ask you if you have sensitive eyes or any known allergies to makeup before they begin. Even if you're not sure, they will be able to see if your eyes are tearing up during the service and will adjust the glue accordingly.

*QUICK TIP* If you experience any burning or discomfort during the service, you should certainly speak up! Getting Lash Extensions should be a completely pain-free experience.

MYTH 2: Lash Extensions damage your own eyelashes and cause them to fall out.

Eyelashes naturally grow and fall out in cycles of 30 to 60 days, which is why Courtney Akai suggests light lash maintenance every three to four weeks to maintain a full look. When done correctly, lashes do not fall out from extensions, because there is no way for this to happen if each extension is glued onto one single lash. When someone inexperienced applies lashes, they often apply one synthetic lash to three to four natural lashes, causing clumps and the lash to break and fall out. Otherwise, the only way your lashes will fall out is if you pick at them or try to pull them out yourself.

MYTH 3: All Lash Extension Salons are the same.

False. Before you choose a salon for your extensions, take precautions and ask the right questions. Just like you would with a hairstylist, research who you want to go to and how long they have been working as a technician. Look at before-and-after photos, read reviews and always make sure they are licensed and lash certified! Getting lash extensions is a fabulous service is completely safe if you go to someone who is experienced, licensed and using safe materials.

*QUICK TIP* Not everyone can achieve the same look with eyelash extensions – the length and density of your natural lash should be evaluated by your technician before expectations are set.

Have you taken the lash extension plunge? How was your experience?

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4 Ways To Make Your Makeup Look Last

2013-06-07T15:23:00.001-04:00

I recently took a jaunt to Vegas, where I had the incredible opportunity to partake in some amazing activities, like swimming with dolphins. But the pace was manic — our group's day started at 8 a.m. and ended after 1 a.m. — so I needed makeup that could keep up with my crazy schedule. Here are my picks for the best long-lasting products and four tricks on how to get a practically bulletproof makeup look.

1. 24/7 Eyes
The trick to eyes that don't smudge or flake is about the application as much as the formula. Use brushes and sponges instead of fingers for the longest possible wear.

Tip: Apply a long-wearing eyeliner pencil, like CoverGirl Liquiline Blast Eyeliner, all over the lid and up to the crease for a smudge-proof base. Then layer a cream shadow on top, like CoverGirl SmokyShadowBlast.

2. Long-lasting Lip Look
There are just a few steps to a lip look that lasts half the day. Line your lips, and then fill them in with a pencil, like CoverGirl LipPerfection Lipliner. Then use a brush to apply two coats of CoverGirl LipPerfection Lipcolor over top.

Tip: Take a tissue and blot in between lipstick layers for a pout that'll take you from day to night.

3. Powder Power

Powder will always help your makeup stay on a bit longer while cutting shine. If you're dry or have more mature skin, opt for powder only where you need it, and look for a formula created with hyaluronic acid so it will hydrate your skin as it mattifies (reduces shine) and sets your makeup.

Read more over at P&G Everyday: http://bit.ly/195b8BU.

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VIDEO: June Beauty Product Favorites

2013-06-07T08:38:00.000-04:00

This is my DEFINITIVE list of things I'm loving for June. Check out the video and list below for where to buy each item.

Here's where you can buy all of my June favorites.Aveda Stress Fix Body Lotion ($11)

Tarte Maracuja Waterproof Rain Forest Glow Body Perfector ($34)

Cargo Lip Gloss in Bourbon Street ($14)

Comfort Zone Skin Regimen Night Renewer Gel ($86)

32 Breath Treatment Crystals ($36)

Veet Easy Wax Electrical Roll-on Kit ($30)

What are your June favorites? Tell me all about 'em below.

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H2O Plus Restore Our Water Planet Shower Gel

2013-06-06T13:11:00.001-04:00

Our (my) dreams may have been dashed when it was revealed that Animal Planet's mermaid documentary wasn't real, but that doesn't mean you can't indulge your inner nyad by celebrating #WorldOceansDay this Saturday, June 8^th with H2O Plus' Restore Our Water Planet Shower Gel. H2O Plus was one of my beauty brand gateway drugs, PS. I rocked their "Mariel" (created for Mariel Hemingway) perfume all throughout the '90s. Comment if you even remember what I'm talking about.

In partnership with EarthEcho International, H2O Plus encourages us to take action and help protect our water planet with the purchase of this refreshing, ocean-inspired shower gel ($10). This hydrating shower gel contains antioxidant-rich Watercress Extract and Iceland Moss to keep skin smooth, plus provitamin B5, Vitamin E, and Aloe Vera to lock in moisture. The marine-inspired fragrance harkens to the '90s, certainly, but is fresh and appealing.

H2O Plus Restore Our Water Planet Shower Gel is available at H2OPlus.com.

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Giveaway: Win One Of 10 Gift Baskets From Puffs!

2013-06-06T08:13:00.000-04:00

This post is sponsored by Puffs

Major, major gigunda giveaway, my glamberous readers. This week, I've partnered with Puffs to offer 10 lucky winners a gift basket full of phenomenal prizes, valued at $650+. Here's what it contains and how you can enter to win.

Smythson Makeup Case

$100 Sephora Gift Card

Sephora Makeup Brush Kit

CoverGirl Nailpolish (Mint Mojito Color)

Puffs AND Puffs To Go

Venus Spa Breeze Razors

3D Whitestripes from Crest

Pantene Anti-humidity Hairspray

Kate Spade Hearts and Spades Scarf

Olay Fresh Effects Tinted Moisturizer

Here's how to enter. Do as many as possible for the most chances to win.

1. Leave a comment on this post.

2. Follow me on Twitter at @Glambr and tweet me: Hey @glambr, I want to win The Puffs giftbasket! #giveaway

3. Follow me on Instagram @glamber and comment on a photo with #Puffs

4. Like this post (click "like" at the top) and like BBJ on Facebook at facebook.com/beautybloggingjunkie and leave a comment about your favorite product.

5. Follow me on Pinterest at pinterest.com/amber_katz/.

6. Subscribe to my YouTube channel: youtube.com/beautybloggingjunkie.

7. Add me to your Google+ Circles: https://plus.google.com/102254214915726294456/posts.

The deadline to enter is 11:59pm on Monday, June 10. Winner will be chosen at random and will be announced on this post. US entrants only, please. Good luck!

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Hairstyle: Haley Bennett At 'The Bling Ring' Premiere

2013-06-05T12:43:00.000-04:00

J'adoring Haley Bennett's retro fob at the premiere of "The Bling Ring" last night, created by Mara Roszak. P.S. I saw the movie earlier this week and it was definitely worth seeing. Emma Watson and Leslie Mann were hilarious in it. Here's how to score a look like Haley's for your next special event.

"I used Lenor Greyl mousse in her damp hair and tough dried it in. Then with a 1-inch iron, I wrapped each piece and pin-curled them. I let the curls sit for 10 minutes, then took them out and brushed with a Mason Pearson brush. I back combed slightly then pinned the hair under creating a shorter look. I sprayed all over with L'Oreal Paris Elnett hairspray."

What do you think of this look on Haley Bennett? Are you going to see "The Bling Ring?"

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New: Murad Renewing Cleansing Oil

2013-06-05T08:35:00.000-04:00

For those of you who are acne-prone (like moi), it can feel incredibly counterintuitive to use a cleansing oil.

I find, however, that it's the best way to remove makeup and SPF. If you need the oil equivalent of a training bra to get you to make the leap from oil-free to oil-full, try Murad’s Renewing Cleansing Oil.

No reference to a training bra can be made without referring to this tome.

You'll rest assured it won't upset your skin's balance, as it's a dermatologist-developed, non-comedogenic cleanser that’s formulated with a blend of natural botanical oils to gently remove impurities, irritants and makeup, while delivering essential moisture. It contains sweet almond oil, olive fruit extract, jojoba and licorice, among other natural ingredients.

Renewing Cleansing Oil retails for $32 at sephora.com. Are you on board with cleansing oils?

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Lather New Summer Nights Body Oils

2013-06-04T08:57:00.000-04:00

Lather's got some new blended pure essential oils you'll want to rock for an estival glow. They're very summer lovin', had me a blast. I know, I'll tell you more, tell you more.

Inspired by the indie brand's in-store Blending Bars where you can make your own bath and body products, these oils are limited edition and come in three variations.

Summer Nights is a sultry blend of jasmine, neroli, frankincense, lavender and coriander. It even acts as an aphrodisiac, if you need a little help to get you in the mood to make out--under the dock, until 10:00, of course. It's my favorite of the trio.

Summer Breeze boasts a cooling blend of lemon, lavender, juniper and neroli that refreshes.

Summer Solstice combines jasmine, blood orange and bergamot for an invigorating hydration iteration.

Use 'em up 'til it turns colder-- that's where it ends. Summer Body Oils are available for $16 at lather.com.

Are you a body oil fan or do you prefer a cream or a lotion?

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Lord & Taylor Friends & Family Sale

2013-06-03T11:07:00.003-04:00

The sale is from June 5-11. Enjoy!

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Don’t Care How, I Want It Now: Julia's Summer Product Picks

2013-06-03T08:29:00.000-04:00

By Julia Casella

Whenever I feel like Veruca from Willy Wonka I turn to these products that give me everything I want, instantly.

Caudalie Divine Legs

This tinted lotion not only gives you an instant sun-kissed glow, but also transports you to the French Rivera with notes of grapefruit, rose, pink pepper, vanilla and cedar. It also won’t stain your clothes and washes off at the end of the day.

Dry Shampoo

I absolutely hate washing my hair so I hoard dry shampoo like it’s my job. Actually, now that I think about it, it is my job because I have to review them for all you lovely readers. However, I’ve been using Pssssst since pre writing-for-BBJ days and it is still one of my all time favs. You can find it at any drugstore and I suggest buying a travel sized one for your purse because this stuff really rocks.

Malin + Goetz Detox Face Mask

It will take you longer to read my review on this 4-minute facemask than it will to actually use it.

Nail Stickers

When you have zero time (or patience) pop on one of the many great nail stickers from Kiss. I especially love the Katie Cazorla ones.

Follow Julia on Twitter.

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Bloomingdales Friends And Family Sale

2013-05-31T14:05:00.002-04:00

You're welcome.

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Destination: Procrastination

2013-05-31T11:15:00.001-04:00

Three ways to snag Blake Lively's style
[Betty Confidential]

Jockey changes the bra size game
[New York Times]

Hairstylist Jen Atkin's seven hair staples
[Lifestyle Mirror]

This duckling is sitting like a proper human. She's practically ordering fries at brunch
[The Luxury Spot]

Great Catsby shirts: It's a thing
[Fashion Binge]

Three killer makeup looks to try out tonight
[Refinery29]

Want to see what Dita Von Teese looked like as a fresh-faced blonde teen? I KNOW
[Glamour The Girls In The Beauty Department]

I discussed how to fix a bad fake tan over at Fashionista
[Fashionista]

The hookups of "Arrested Development" season 4, as told via gifs
[How About We]

The 5 best lipsticks for kissing
[Your Tango]

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Eff Off, AARP. Slash Pass The Avon.

2013-05-31T08:28:00.000-04:00

This post is sponsored by Avon, but all opinons are my own.

Yesterday was not the best. Some of its gems include:

I was at an event yesterday thrown by my friend Yuli (whose wedding I'm attending in Greece next week--YAY for that) and was talking about the festivities when her business partner came over and started asking me all about my impending nuptials... because somehow he'd misheard that we were talking about YULI'S wedding. Whom he works with every day. Did I mention that my birthday is next week? I'm not discussing how old I'll be. I'm having a panic attack about it that's closer to the Rain Man-not-getting-home-in-time-for-Wapner end of the scale than the WASPY Lucille Bluth method of dealing with it by numbing herself with several dirty martinis. More on that later.

I attended an event at the Kensie showroom (divine reasonably priced jewelry, BTW) and decided to talk to the Taro reader there for kicks who told me that not one but TWO of the cards indicated my pessimistic attitude toward dating.

After two events and a Flywheel class during which my hair tie broke and I had to MacGuyver it on my hair to hold any of it away from my face while in position 1, I came home gasping for air in the humid 90-degree heat and felt the need for a people cleanse. I got my mail... and in my inbox is an APPLICATION FOR AN AARP SUBSCRIPTION. And I was like, you know what? That's it. I'm 32. Fuming, I sent @AARP a caustic tweet and they apologized.

It's a full day later but I cannot stop slathering on Avon's Youth Restoring trio, which includes a night cream, day cream and anti-wrinkle eye roller. Obviously. As if I could. Ever. In a world where we live as people. I've been rocking it for the past week (although once-hourly applications between last night and tonight have made my skin's texture look positively Abigail Breslin-esque.) The two creams boast elegant textures (the day cream is formulated with SPF so you'll stave off AARP for years and years to come) and sink in immediately. The products are infused with Amethyst Mineral Complex to impart a younger and healthier look by fading the appearance of fine lines. I love that it doesn't freak out my sensitive skin but does yeoman's hydration duty.

Each piece retails for $12 at shop.avon.com. Are you in the market to up your anti-aging game? ALSO HAS AARP WRONGLY SENT YOU MAIL? Share Horowitz in the comments. Go.

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Colette Malouf Sample Sale

2013-05-30T15:49:00.003-04:00

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Fictionary: Arrayzor

2013-05-30T11:26:00.002-04:00

Fictionary is a column showcasing beauty-related words that don't exist, but should.

I don't know if this trait is one of the many I inherited from Barry Katz (who has most things in triplicate, to my mother's dismay) but I am hosting a veritable razor party in my shower and so many are invited. I like an arrayzor, if you will.

But they all serve different purposes, kind of like Aiden's multiple deodorants.

I hesitate to admit I have the exact same amount of razors in rotation, but only 4 are pictured at the moment. I use the Intuition for quick shave jobs--either when I'm pressed for time or find I missed a spot somewhere. The Schick Quattro for Women Trimstyle is my go-to for trimming or when I need a longer-lasting shave.

But the new Hydro Silk iteration is my favorite, in a new chic Caribbean blue with its own travel case, which is key. I'm so tired of finding "floater" razor heads in my travel bag, only to find I've packed two or three more heads, not realizing there are several lurking out of sight and are waterlogged and barely functional. This handy little toothbrush cap-like scenario locks it up for me, to quote the sage John Beck of Wedding Crashers.

Schick Hydro Silk Razor is $10 at mass market retailers nationwide.

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Makeup: Jessica Szohr At 'The Internship' Premiere

2013-05-30T10:29:00.005-04:00

Makeup artist Mai Quynh created this smoldering look for Jessica Szohr (whose tenure on "Gossip Girl" was truncated too early, in my professional opinion) for "The Internship"premiere. Here, the breakdown courtesy of Quynh.

I started by applying Revive Defensif Renewal Serum to the face. I like to start with the eye makeup because I can clean up any fallen shadow on her bare skin. I applied Shiseido Shimmering Cream Eye Color Shadow in Caviar, along her lash line to the crease. Then, I used Dolce & Gabbana Eyeshadow Quad in Femme Fatale 100. I mixed the taupe and black colors and then applied them to her crease. Then I smudged the black color along her bottom lash line. I rimmed her eyes with Becca Automatic Eye Pencil in Majorca.

I brushed on two coats of Diorshow Black Out Mascara. For the face, I applied Laura Mercier Oil Free Supreme Foundation. I mixed Honey Beige and Suntan Beige to her face. I used both colors to add dimension. I applied Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer in SC-5 around her nose. I set her face using Clinique Stay Matte Sheer Powder in Stay Suede. I bronzed her face using Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Powder in 02. I brushed on Tarte Amazonian Clay 12 Hour Blush in Blushing Bride to the apples of her cheeks.

Finally, I applied NARS Lipstick in Tolede. It's a beautiful soft rose color that compliments her smokey eyes.

What do you think of this look? Wearable for a wedding, no?

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Joie Sample Sale

2013-05-29T10:20:00.000-04:00

This one's always worth it, friends.

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9 Summer Makeup Tips From Christian McCulloch, Dolce & Gabbana National Makeup Artist

2013-05-29T08:42:00.000-04:00

In honor of summer's unofficial start this week, I hit up Dolce&Gabbana National Makeup Artist Christian McCulloch to glean his best tips on what makeup we need to be wearing, stat. From creating a humidity-proof canvas to lengthening lashes, here's what you need to know to bring that glow.

1. BBJ: What are the must-have spring eye, lip and cheek trends?

CM: A pop of color always! Even if it's just a flush on the cheeks to brighten up the complexion.

I love the Dolce&Gabbana blushers--Peach, Provocative, Sole, and Delight are perfect for this, especially when layered over bronzers like Desert, Sunshine or Natural for a juicy, glowing effect. Finish off with a little highlighter and you have the most heavenly glowing complexion. The blush goes over that on the apple of the cheek, literally where you smile, for a healthy, pretty glow. Softly brush upward and outwards in sweeping motion, never downward towards the nose and mouth, try and keep this area clean. Highlighter goes higher, on the upper outer cheekbone--sprinkled on top--think Jennifer Lopez!

Dolce&Gabbana's new Perfect Matte Liquid Foundation ($66) , available at sephora.com .

2. BBJ: Can you share some tricks for sheering down foundation for a more natural effect for summer?

CM: Apply foundation with fingers. I always find that I use less makeup when I apply with my good old fashioned fingers then with a brush or sponge. Warm foundation in your hands and pat in the areas needed--usually the center of the face and any targeted spots. Then use a triangular wedge sponge to blend as needed. These sponges are my absolute favorite. Inexpensive and disposable--I can't live without them!

3. BBJ: Coral lips: What's your favorite way to achieve them this season?

CM: Bold, vibrant lips are always popular in the summer but this year we are seeing a lot more shades taking a cue from the neon trend. My shade obsession for summer is the Dolce&Gabbana Classic Cream Lipstick in Coral. Try the bold look with a lipstick or even a gloss or stain will get you the same effect without overpowering your look.

3. BBJ: Are you preferring stains, lipsticks or gloss for spring?

CM: Love it all! Depends on your lips, your outfit, your hair, (Is it touching your face? Hello!) the overall "style balance." For practicality I do love a stain, a shiny sheer stain, not necessarily dripping in gloss a la Kardashian, fabulous as she is! It is a more practical look that you can easily achieve with your favorite lipstick color. Use your middle or ring finger to dab onto your lips directly from the tube. Layer until you get the color you want and you have a lasting stain that isn't drying.

4. BBJ: Can you share some highlighting tips?

CM: I love mixing a little liquid highlighter with a dewy eye cream and applying with a foundation brunch--the Dolce&Gabbana Foundation brush is great for this. This is a great trick if you feel a highlighter is getting a bit too frosty. It provides hydration, a glow achiever, without the glittery look.

5. BBJ: What's the most natural way to get a gorgeous bronze look without looking like a teen at the mall who just discovered she can afford Wet 'n Wild?

CM: It's like layering and layering, practice makes perfect! Be aware of how clean your brushes are and if your face is too moist, then the bronzers will leave more noticeable marks than if you are applying to a velvet complexion. I like to start with a foundation that is fitting to the skin to perfect the complexion so you know the bronzer will be just right. The new Dolce&Gabbana Perfect Matte Liquid Foundation is a perfect skin starter. It regulates the hydration in the air as well as on the skin so you get a softly smooth look that is the quintessential base.

I always put the bronzer lightly first. Always tap off lightly any excess product on your hand.

Use soft, sweeping circular motions, going softly upwards and outwards, usually. Go a little more concentrated under the cheekbone for extra contour and dimension. Apply it very lightly at the sides of the forehead brushing both inwards and also outwards towards the hairline and temples. Be gentle along the jawline if you want more shape and contour there too. Just lightly, so as not to see obviously where it starts and begins. Subtler is always preferred than heavier, as you can keep building. The demarcation line is not desired! Finish bronzing by going very softly over the other areas of the face, just to blend in, but without any new product on the brush, just the remainder of what you used, so as to leave the area around the nose, mouth and chin nice and clean. C-shapes or S-shapes are great for sweeping.

6. BBJ: What's your favorite mascara and technique for long lashes?

CM: Dolce&Gabbana Secret Eyes Mascara first to catch EVERY lash. Then go in for the kill with Intenseyes Mascara for extra oomph. Mascara is the last thing I do at the end of any makeup application. But foundation, concealer, blush, bronzer, powder, liner, eyeshadow, basically everything really should be done before, so it doesn't go into the mascara and dull the beautiful mascara application. I like the lashes looking, crisp, shiny and black for maximum effect. Again repetitive strokes to build them, and wiggle out from root to tip. Once you have this down you will never need to search for a new mascara - its just as much about the technique as it is about the brush and formula.

I just keep re-applying if I want more drama, I don't particularly wait for it to dry, perhaps just enough while you do the other eye. I love dramatic lashes but too cloggy can be a bit much. If it's an old mascara you will know right away and toss it immediately.

If you get it on your lids, take it off right away with a cotton swab. It will come right off if you're fast and shouldn't even really disturb the shadow. Just raising your eyebrows and looking down should be enough, without having to touch the lid with your finger.

7. BBJ: How about for full lashes?

CM: If you don't have the patience to place on individuals--which are actually pretty easy once you get going, and definitely the most subtle--then a corner lash, that is, a partial strip on the outer corner, is a great way to kick up the eyes. I did it on Sofia Vergara recently and it was just the right amount of exaggeration, without the full drama of an entire lash strip. Followed by Dolce&Gabbana's Glam Intense Liquid Liner in Black traced finely across the lash line to intensify the black. This last step is important to help it to look seamlessly blended. Blend your own lashes into false ones at the ends with mascara. And if you're still lost, don't forget to check in with RuPaul's drag race to see how the pros really do it!

8. BBJ: Blue eye makeup is still all the rage. What's your favorite take on the look?

CM: I absolutely love the Dolce&Gabbana The Kohl Eye Pencil in Peacock and Crayon Intense in Acqua. Blue eyeshadow can be scary and I find a great way to wear a pop of color on the eye is with a thin, sporty line along the top lashes with a flick at the end. Think future Audrey Hepburn!

9. BBJ: How do we keep our makeup from melting off in high humidity?

CM: Matte Foundation really is the best for its staying power but it also leaves a smooth, velvet finish that isn't drying like a lot of typical long-wear makeup. Apply with sponges and even out with a foundation brush. Always think about your day before applying your makeup. Do you need a thick moisturizer or extra sunscreen? If so, make sure to wait until both are completely absorbed before applying your foundation, as you don't want it to slide around on your face once you get down into the subway. If not, then forgo the extra skincare and use a BB cream or foundation that incorporates skincare benefits into your makeup.

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Thanks, Christian! FYI, the makeup maestro will be at Saks Fifth Avenue in NYC and San Francisco meeting with customers on May 30th (NYC) and June 1 (SF). If you're in town, stop in and ask him YOUR burning beauty questions.

What makeup are you going to buy for summer?

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2013-05-28T10:49:00.001-04:00

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