A Little "Tarte" for All Ocassions

Tarte Cosmetics being one of my favorite brands to use, its only natural that I would write about my favorite picks for the season. Every year I can look forward to how Tarte continues to evolve with their limited edition sets - from design to color choices, product additions, etc... The best part is that there is something for every price point.

When there is a strict budget ........

Good As Gold
( Limited Edition Lipgloss set / $29)

There is not a girl in the world that can NOT ever have enough lipgloss ! This is the perfect gift for every tartelette, which includes 15 universally flattering lip glosses . Which is what I love about this set the most - not all colors are flattering for all shades, but Tarte's glosses have proven to be fabulous on us all ( no matter how fair or dark we may be). These mini glosses are perfect for nights out when carrying less is more. If you really are on a budget, why not divide the glosses between friends ( 5 glosses per friend) in self made beauty baskets. A well glossed lip will put a smile on everyone's face !

When there is room to splurge .........

The Jewelry Box

(Sephora Exclusive limited-edition palette and reusable necklace / $52)

This set includes 32 eyeshadows, 5 eyeliners, 8 lipglosses, 1 bronzer, 1 highlighter . Perfect for the girl who can never have enough makeup , and I love that there is a little treat included ( the detachable necklace) . I also love this as a go-to travel companion. It beats having to choose which shadows to bring along with you, and having to worry you forgot a certain color. With this little box of jewels, you will have it all, an its compact enough to carry on the plane with you !!! It is the gift that keeps on giving.

LORAC does it again this Holiday Season

LORAC , (one of my favorite beauty brands - I use the eye shadows, lip glosses , lipsticks, and mascaras religiously) has done it again with the Holiday Collection. From Tie-Dye lipglosses which will leave you with a custom pout , to Blockbuster palettes loaded with color for the face and shimmery pencils to add a little more sparkle to your eyes this Holiday Season.

TIE DYE FOR LIP GLOSS – ($25 ) set of 5 lip glosses that have a trio of colors swirled together to create one-of-a-kind shades , or like LORAC has deemed it "menage -a-trois of color swirls" . More than your average gloss , these glosses have natural benefits. They are packed with powerful antioxidants like Acai Berry and Pomegranate to keep lips nourished , while lips will be soothed and moisturized with natural emollients as Grape Seed Oil, Apricot Oil, and Coconut Oil. The perfect stocking stuffer for your gloss-loving friend. I would recommend this as a gift to yourself as well, you can not go wrong with lip gloss!!!

ALL THAT GLITTERS ( $18 at ULTA ONLY ) – a collection of 5 dazzling , sparkling shadow/liner pencils that can be used as a liner or shadow to add shimmer to the eyes. During this season where there is party after party, and the party night of all party nights (New Years Eve) - these liners will more than come in handy. At a economically friendly $18 , you can grab a bunch for your girlfriends and one for yourself.




BOX OFFICE SENSATION – ( $56 , with a $660 value!) Sephora Exclusive Limited Edition Train Case that is fully loaded with - 36 eye shadows, 3 blushes, 1 bronzer and 9 lip colors . This is the perfect gift , ( or even a gift to yourself) , that will make you or the gifted feel like a Pro. Its small enough to even travel with , and feel like the ultimate jet-setter with your luxe black case. At only $56 , this is a steal! One of my favorites.




BOX OFFICE HIT – ($35, with a $210 value) ULTA Exclusive Limited Edition Full Face Palette contains 12 eye shadows, 2 eye liners, a blush, bronzer and 8 lip colors. I love the compact-ability of this set , take it to work and you can change a day look to a night look. Smokey looks are a MUST with this set , that comes in a oh so haute croc embossed case. A great gift to your career driven friend who goes from the office to an evening event ( whether its business or pleasure ) , she will have all the tools to keep her fabulosity in tact!

For more information , or to purchase these amazingly fabulous sets , check out Sephora, LORAC and ULTA Beauty

Unique and Whimsical Gift Ideas From Bailey Doesn't Bark

Bailey Doesn't Bark® is a new line of products made in the U.S. by founder/ designer Re Jin Lee. Lee creates handmade, simply unique, witty designs to be used in everyday life. All Bailey Doesn't Bark® products are made by Re Jin Lee , or an independent and/or eco-friendly partner and are packaged in-house using recycled, reusable or biodegradable materials.

Here's my two picks for the Holiday Season , all under $55 !!!!

POSTCUP
($52, Apply your own message to this cup like you would on a postcard. Postcard design on a handmade, natural white mug. Black Pebeo porcelain pen included,. 14 oz, 4".)

This is one of the most innovative and cute gifts I have seen in a long time. Unlike a traditional postcard, it can be used time and time again. It is a very sweet and endearing gift, no matter who the recipient is, this gift will be greatly appreciated. Everytime he/she enjoys their favorite beverage , they can read your cute little message .

ANTS ON MY PLATE
($38, Ant design on a handmade, natural white porcelain plate. 7" D.)

This style also comes in a Mug and Spoon , its a bit quirky and funny at the same time. With a quick glance of the eye - you would think that those are actual ants on the plate. Its a beautiful plate , yet it has the ability to make you laugh - something that's always good !

For more information check out www.baileydoesntbark.com

Holiday GiftSets From Redken .. A Gift For Everyone on Your List

For the Fashionista - The Runway's Latest Braid gift set
(Suggested retail price: $30 value for only $22!)

Includes aerate 08 bodifying cream-mousse, a key product that Guido, Redken Creative Consultant, preps the hair with at top runway shows including Alexander Wang, where the trend was first introduced, as well as quick dry 18 instant finishing spray to seal the look with fast-drying control for lasting hold. You have to make sure your Fashionista ( friend/sister/ mom) has the right tools to create the iconic runway look !!!!

For the Beau - Mint Essentials gift set
(Suggested retail price: $16.50)

Includes the perfect match of two mint-fused grooming products: mint clean invigorating shampoo and mint-fix sweat-resist gel. Real men need product too!!! Its a gift he will appreciate!

For the girl with tresses that need extra control . - Real Control gift set
(Suggested retail price: $22)

Includes Real Control Shampoo and Conditioner to reclaim control of high-maintenance hair and a travel size Intense Renewal super moisturizing mask to deliver intense moisture and discipline, helping control and repair extremely dense, dry hair. This set would be perfect for me , as my hair is chemically processed , and I use heat tools .

For the girl who seeks out VaVaVoom Volume - Body Full gift set
(Suggested retail price: $22)

Includes Body Full Shampoo and Light Conditioner to infuse fine or flat hair with 24 hours** of high-impact volume and luscious lift, as well as a travel size of full frame 07 protective volumizing mousse to add amazing volume that’s never stiff or sticky! This is perfect for the friend/sister/or mom who's hair is not as full, but wants to create that voluminous effect.

For the girl who likes to experiment with color - Color Extend gift set
( Suggested retail price: $2)

Includes Color Extend Shampoo and Conditioner for unsurpassed haircolor protection* and maximum vibrancy as well as a travel size Rich Recovery protective treatment to intensely replenish and recondition hair. This is a gift set that shows you care , helping someone protect + preserve their fabulous color.

For more information, purchase product , locate a salon near you , go to redken.com

Top 3 Holiday Fragrance picks by way of Fragrancenet.com

I have teamed up with Fragrancenet.com to create my own little "Holiday 2010 Gift Guide" . Narrowing it down to my top three fragrance choices for men and women.
Enjoy!!!!!!!

3. Just Cavalli

A young fun scent with notes of rosemary, patchouli, cardamom, cedarwood, sage, ginger, musk, coriander, and bergamot. This is very casual scent with the recommended age being early 20's. Although its a male scent, it has a flowery classification which means its a light airy scent- not overpowering at all.

2. Burberry London

This is more for the "outdoor-sy" man. Who occasionally likes to grow his beard out and goes for a semi-scruffy look. This has woods classification with notes of Bergamot, Cinnamon, Pepper, Lavender, Port, Mimosa, Moss, Tobacco Leaf, Leather, Opoponax . This is reccommended for casual use , although it has an amazing scent - he can wear this everyday. The best part is he will think of you when he does !

1. PLAY Intense

I chose this alluring scent from Givenchy as number one, because its a scent recommended for evening use. In my opinion that makes it all the more special, its the scent he will wear for special occasions , or when he is decked out in that tux. With notes of patchouli, mandarin, bergamot, vetiver, coffee flower, tonka bean, labdanum, Caribbean amyris, wood, pink pepper - it has a spicy/oriental feeling that is sure to please.

3. Euphoria

A romantic scent with notes of black violet, pomegranate, black orchid, mahogany wood, persimmon, and lotus blossom. I am a fan of spicy / oriental scents for women - that kind of have that androgynous aura . I have not met a woman that has not fell in love with this perfume! It is the perfect gift.

2. Alien

One of my personal favorites with notes of amber, vanilla, orange blossom, and wood. Another oriental / spicy fragrance , but Alien stand in a category all its own. It have a very unique , sexy smell that the she and all her male admirers will just love. Why not gift it to yourself? I would !

1. Miss Dior Cherie

There could not be a name more fitting for my number one pick for a woman's fragrance gift. This flowery scent ( I usually don't like flowery scents, but this one has made me a believer) has notes of strawberry leaf, patchouli, violet, mandarin, musk, and jasmine. This is for the ultimate girly girl, its just a pretty scent, makes you want to get dolled up and have your hand kissed by the perfect gentlemen.

You can find all the scents listed above and so much more at fragrancenet.com , and they're also offering free shipping U.S. orders over $70 !!!

Happy Shopping !

Mach Speed For The Holidays !!!!

I love making new discoveries, and just in time for the holiday season I discovered this amazing Tech brand Mach Speed. According to the latest NPD data Mach Speed is ranked No.1 in Opening Price Point MP3 Manufacturer , and No.3 in unit volume only behind Apple and Sandisk.

Below you will find my favorite picks for the holiday season - great gift ideas all under $100 !!!!!!!

Trio T4300HD ($89.99)

This is a Hi Definition Touch Screen 4.3" inch MP3/MP4 player with 8GB Memory. This is an amazing treat for the media lover , and it even includes a remote control ! So small and compact for traveling - something that we tend to do a lot during this time of year - why not have the perfect little companion ??

Trio T3000 ($59.99)

The second on my list , big on power but light in the price being under $60. This MP3/ MP4 player features a 3.0" touchscreen , 4GB memory and a microSD slot for added storage, camera and camcorder , dual headphone jacks ( perfect for long rides / flights) , last but not least, a built-in speaker. This media player offers a lot of options for a very affordable price.

Trio T2800 ($49.99)

This is my favorite choice for children. This little player offers 4GB of storage along with a MicroSD slot, a 2.8" touchscreen with MP3/MP4 capability. It also offers the signature built in speaker, and dual headphone jacks. My nephew loves this player.

Click here for information on where to buy Mach Speed products.

Pretty SKINNY Bling of the Day

I am just loving the “Flat” Finger Candy ring by Skinny ($70) !!!! Most recently spotted on Khloe Kardashian during her recent stay here in New York City. Set with an overabundance of Swarovski crystals, this ring adds a major dose of blingosity to your outfit. I would love to stack this ring on especially on a rainy or cold day in NYC to give me a little extra something to look down at and smile about during a nasty weather day. This pretty little ring comes in an assortment of colors ( Black Diamond, Vitrail Medium, Carribean Opal, Golden Shadow, Pacific Opal, Hematite) , with the Holiday Season approaching a perfect stocking stuffer idea!

Holiday Hydrate the Hollywood Way with Pureology

Hydration is key during these cold winter months, and with that in mind Pureology gifted Hollywood with the Holiday Hydrate Kit ($54/ $80 value) to keep the biggest names in the biz' (from Victoria Beckham , Kimora Lee Simmons, Oprah and Sarah Jessica Parker have been gifted recently) locks camera -ready at all times. The gift set includes Pureology's top selling HydrateShampoo, HydrateCondition and GlossingMist. I love the fact that Pureology is 100% Vegan , and the product is so rich , that you can get at least 80 shampoos with one retail sized bottle !!! It is truly the gift that keeps on giving !!!

This giftset has a retail value of $80 but will be free for one lucky winner !!!!!

Email me with the subject title "Holiday Hydrate the Hollywood Way" , with your FULL contact details, (name, address, etc.) , and the lucky winner will be notified via email that they've won.

Good luck!!

T3 Holiday Gift Ideas

PRO.Straighten, Sectioning Comb, Boost

Special Holiday Price: $119

Valued at $152

PRO.Dryer, Pink Barrel Brush, Plump

Special Holiday Price: $119

Valued at $170

Featherweight, Barrel Brush, Control

Special Holiday Price: $200

Valued at: $249

All of these fabulous sets are available at Sephora and Sephora.com

Amazing Straight Hair With Color That Extends Throughout The Holidays Contest !

Now it's the ladies turn !!!  Starting this week  I am conducting YET ANOTHER contest / giveaway on my site courtesy of the REDKEN. 

Whether its Straight hair you have that is allergic to unsighltly Frizz or its rich color that you wont dare ever let it fade away. 

One winner will win the Amazing Straight Gift Set ($22) : the Amazing Straight Gift Set is catered to those looking for sleek polished look that defies humidity (sounds like me actually.)  This set includes align 12 protective straightening lotion that defends hair against unwanted humidity and provides long lasting definition with frizz control. Straighten dry hair with your favorite flat-iron and finish up with quick dry 18 instant finishing spray to hold your sleek locks in place instantly!

The second winner will win the Color Extend Gift Set ($22) : the Color Extend Gift Set caters to all color-treated hair types wanting haircolor retention and protection! This set includes Color Extend Shampoo and Conditioner to seal in haircolor and protect against fading while strengthening and rebalancing moisture. For smooth, shiny, reflective hair color, apply Color Extend Rich Recovery protective treatment, a lightweight gel cream, one to two times a week after washing for intense color and shine restoration.

RULES

1. 
   
   Email Me   (contests@deessemagazine.com)  with the Subject title Amazing Hair With Color That Extends Throughout The Holidays , your full contact details, name, address, etc..  Also include which of the two sets you'd like to win and why your (or you'd want ) your hair to be "Amazingly Straight "  / or  has "Color (that)  Extends" - depending on the product you'd like to win.
   
   
   
2. 
   
   The best entries will be the coveted winners, and I will post the winning email comments on here on tuesday , December 8, 2009 -  and thats how you will know if you've won. 
   
   
   
3. 
   
   Multiple Entries Void, Contest open to North American entries only.
   
   
   

Good Luck !!!!!

Simply Rescue your Serenity with Borghese Holiday Gift Sets

I am just LOVE - Loving the Borghese Holiday 2009 gift sets. There is something for everyone .

The Party Girl / Fashionista - you have the Simply Beautiful gift set , which includes :

Splendore Brightening Makeup for Face, 1 fl oz
Eyeshadow Quad - Plum Perfetta, 0.28 oz
Superiore State-of-the-Art Mascara - Black, 0.1 oz
Linea Precisa Liquid Eyeliner - Black, 0.015 fl oz
Mini Labbro Più Paffuto Lip Plumper
Mini B Gloss Lip Gloss - Petalo
Black Evening Clutch

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Your Best-Friend / Sister - you have the Serenity Now gift set, which includes :

Botanico Eye Compresses
Fango Active Mud for Face and Body, 6 oz
Bagno di Vita Gentle Foaming Gel for Bath and Shower, 8.4 fl oz
CuraForte Moisture Intensifier, 1 fl oz
Cura di Vita Protettivo Protective Moisturizer SPF 15, 1 fl oz
Tono Body Crème, 6 oz
Splendide Mani Smoothing Hand Crème SPF 8, 2.5 oz
Sponge

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The best person of all... MOM - you have the Rescue & Retreat gift set, which includes:

Crema Saponetta Cleansing Crème, 2.5 oz
Effetto Immediato Spa Soothing Tonic for Sensitive Skin, 4 fl oz
Fango Active Mud for Face and Body, 2.5 oz
CuraForte Moisture Intensifier, 1 fl oz
Fluido Protettivo Advanced Spa Lift for Eyes, 1 fl oz
Dolce Notte Re-Energizing Night Crème, 1 oz
Insta-Firm Platinum Advanced Wrinkle Relaxer, 1 oz

The best part of all is that all of these gift sets are under 55.00 !! So its luxury without the hefty luxury price tag.

For more info , check out www.borghese.com

What I'm LOVING at the moment : Ariel Gordon Jewelry

Pictured above ( not listed in any particular order) : Heart charm necklace, Morning Star charm necklace,14k gold Love Knot Stud earrings,14k solid gold Square Stud, Stackable Hex Rings,Solid gold Hex Ring, Solid gold Faceted Cigar Band, The solid gold Fatty Ring, 36” of delicately wire wrapped stones.


I have become the biggest fan of Ariel Gordon Jewelry in the short time that I've become familiar with the line. What I love about these Sterling , Gold , Rose Gold pieces are that they are simple enough for everyday , yet with certain pieces - you can definitely pile them on and make a real statement for night.


All of these fabulous pieces are handcrafted, and all the stones are conflict free - another reason to love the line. All of these pieces would make perfect gifts for the holiday season.


For more information on Ariel Gordon Jewelry check out :

www.arielgordonjewelry.com

Top 8 Scents for Holiday 2009

Top 8 for Holiday 2009

Top 8 Scents ( pictured, from top left clockwise) : Insolence by Guerlain , John Varvatos, Jean Paul Gaultier, Angel by Thierry Mugler, Lolita Lempicka, John Varvatos, Lolita Lempicka Masculin, Angel Men by Thierry Mugler


I just love perfume !!! who doesn't?? I've put together my list a TOP 8 Scents (listed separately between Men and Women scents) for the Holiday Season. All these scents can be found on Fragrancenet.com , which is like Heaven for perfume/cologne lovers worldwide.. countless scents to choose from with even better prices !!!

Top 8 for Holiday 2009

Women

4. John Varvatos
( just as charming and seductive as the male counterpart)
3. Lolita Lempicka
(fun, sexy and flirty, and sure to please the senses!!)
2. Insolence by Guerlain
(epitome of femininity)
1. Angel by Thierry Mugler
(there's no words for this scent.. have to smell for yourself!)

Men

4. Lolita Lempicka Masculin
( Fun!!)
3. Jean Paul Gaultier
(Classic and never out of style)
2. Angel Men by Thierry Mugler
( a case of je ne sais quoi ..)
1. John Varvatos
(a very sexy sexy scent !!! think : James Bond )

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GIVEAWAY !!!!!

Two Lucky Readers will win a scent each - The prizes are as follows: John Varvatos (Men) , and Insolence by Guerlain (Women) .

Rules

1. Email Me , with the subject - Fragrancenet.com Giveaway
   be sure to include your name, contact details, etc..
2. Deadline to enter is Friday November 13, 2009
   
3. The Lucky Winners will then revealed the following Monday.
   
4. Multiple entries will be considered Void.
   
5. Go to Fragrancenet.com to see what scents are out there to choose from.
   
6. Good luck !!!!