Photo by Flickr TORIMBC

Whether you’re going on a first date, a valentine’s night out, or a wedding anniversary, you can ramp up the sexy factor with some playful eye makeup. Here’s how to do eye makeup for two sexy date night looks. Pick either the cat eye or the gold smokey eye.

Cat Eye

Obviously this look is all about the eyeliner. The classic cat eye is usually done with black liquid liner, but there are variations depending on what’s easier for you.

• Liquid Liner

The easiest way to use liquid liner is to buy a liquid liner pen. Using a pen is already a natural movement. Now instead of scribbling on a notepad you’re drawing an elegant swooping line. Start from the outside and draw in. Make the liner thicker on the wing, and thinner as you draw towards your inner eye.

Try out: Maybelline Eye Studio Master Precise Ink Pen Eyeliner

Photo by Flickr vancouverfilmschool

• Cream Liner

To use cream liner you’ll need a liner brush. The easiest brush to use is an angled liner brush. This will help to facilitate the winged line. When picking up the cream product start with a very little bit of product. In fact, wipe a little bit of product off before applying. You can go on top with a bit more if needed, but it’s always hard to wipe off.

Try out: Makeup Forever Aqua Cream

• Powder Eyeliner

This isn’t the most popular product out there. But I feel it’s much easier to use for anyone that has a wobbly hand or is new to a cat eye. Some ladies just like the matte look that powder gives. Again, use an angled liner brush and start at the outside of the wing and bring the line in, tapering as you move towards the inner eye. Most powder eyeliners can be used wet or dry. If using wet, wet the brush instead of the powder so it doesn’t get too messy.

Try out: Aloette Powder Eyeliner

Pair your cat eye with a nude eyeshadow that sweeps all over the lid and up onto the brow bone. You can choose a red lip or nude lip.

Next choice for your sexy date night makeup is gold and bold.

Gold Smokey Eye

Photo by Flickr Bel Maciel

This look is very similar to a traditional smokey eye. Instead you’re going to pick out some metallic eyeshadows. Use the a nude or very pale gold under the brow. Choose a medium gold or bronze to apply all over the lid. Then pick out a deeper shadow for the crease and outer lid. Blend and blend and blend, then finish with a brown kohl pencil to line the top and bottom lash line.

Try out: Sephora Collection Colorful Duo Eyeshadow in Hot Brown

SOS Novelties 3-in-1 Soy Candle

Lotion. Massage oil. Candle. This deliciously scented soy candle is perfect for setting the mood. Use it cold as a lotion or emollient, warmed as a silky massage oil or simply light it and let the alluring aroma put your mind elsewhere. The 3-in-1 candle is body safe, paraben free, all-natural and eco-friendly.  It glides on smooth (even cold), leaves your skin feeling silky and smells delicious (think pina colada meets watermelon). Two words: yes, please.

Red by Mary Kay and Strawberry by Arbonne

Red. It symbolizes power, love, confidence and seduction and is the perfect shade for a lipstick. If you’re looking to jazz up your appearance, or try something bold then Red and Strawberry are just what the beauty doctor ordered. Vibrant, long-lasting, smooth and simply beautiful, Red or Strawberry are sure to please.

Chocolate Truffle Body Scrub Polish

A definite must have on Valentine’s Day. Decadently scented Peruvian Cocoa powder, pure white cane sugar, Shea butter and and natural Cocoa butter.  This body scrub not only exfoliates your skin but polishes it and encourages cell-turnover. If you’re looking to glow this Valentine’s Day, then this scrub is just what you need. Also, try adding a dab or four of Arbonne’s sheer Glow Highlighter. It illuminates, smooths and leaves your skin looking radiant.

Body Butter by Asili

Shea and Cocoa butters, emollient-rich Soybean,  and sweet almond & Macadamia nut oils. This all-natural, handmade body crème is sure to help you keep your skin looking supple and youthful. Body butters can be customized to address specific needs and concerns.

Try one of these easy styles to send a message to that special someone in your life.

The Ponytail

According to professional hairstylist, Kate, “There is a big difference between the “I’m going to the gym” ponytail, and The Ponytail.”

Kate - The Small Things Blog

In her video tutorial, Kate lists these steps to help you achieve perfection:

• Start with hair already styled with curling iron and product
• Use a jaw clip to secure a small section of hair at the crown to ensure a little extra lift (clip will be removed after wrapping ponytail)
• Loosely gather remainder of hair and pull into a ponytail
• Wrap with a clear ponytail holder and remove jaw clip
• Fluff, adjust and spray as needed
• Watch the end of the video as Kate reveals her secret trick for giving her ponytail a little extra fluff.

Two other ponytail options

• Super-sleek and skinny ponytail
• Ponytail with curls – create curls by taking small sections of the ponytail and wrapping around a curling iron to form long, loose curls

Off the Neck Updo

For hair completely off the neck, try this elegant updo.

Sexy Off-the-Neck Updo

 How to achieve this look

• Gather hair in a loose ponytail
• Curl sections of ponytail with curling iron, using hairspray to hold curls
• Pin curled sections individually with bobby pins until achieving desired look
• Embellish with hair accessory of your choice.

Who knew flirting could be so easy?

Be bold.

Try something different.

Add a little flavor to your beauty routine.

Set the mood with your new updo and let your hair do the talking on your next romantic evening alone with the one you love.

“I love thee to the depth and breadth and height my soul can reach.”  ~Elizabeth Barrett Browning

To get my accessories in order, I had to turn to the organizing expert in my life, my sister Elissa. Actually, all I really had to do was take a look around her room. She’s the Martha Stewart of storage and organization. While I tend to mock her for what I deem an obvious obsession with neat-freakery, I could not deny the four creative ways she organized various accessories.

Storage Bins

When I hear the words storage bin, the words that come to mind are drab, clunky and absolutely void of personality. I think of the kinds of bins I keep tucked away in the attic or basement which serve no purpose other than to house my keepsakes. Was I wrong!

These simple, yet colorful 4-drawer storage bins are perfect for housing your accessories. As you can tell from the photo, the fabulous Elissa has her jewelry housed in small plastic containers. Easy, affordable and it works!

Photo by Flickr bark

Packing light is a talent and I applaud anyone who can do it. If you want to lighten your suitcase you might want to forget the hair styling tools.  The Opryland Hotel hotel rooms all have hair dryers.  And let’s be honest, conferences are so darn busy you’re not likely to get the time to straighten or curl your hair.  When it comes to hair and makeup styling think simple!

But I don’t want you to forget anything else.  Here is a list of every possible toiletry or beauty item I could think of (with a little help from some friends).

What to pack for Blissdom checklist:

Face Care:

• one moisturizer (skip the separate day and night cream and leave the serum at home, just bring one face lotion or cream)
• eye cream
• face wash
• makeup removing wipes or makeup remover and cotton pads

Makeup Bag

• eyeshadow duo (just bring a basic light and a basic dark shadow, for a day look just wear the light color with liner and mascara, before you head out for your evening party sweep on the dark color for a smokey look)
• black or brown eyeliner
• foundation or tinted moisturizer
• concealer
• blush or bronzer
• mascara
• two lipsticks (a light shade for day and a deep shade for night
• eyebrow pencil
• eyelash curler
• makeup brushes

Broken lids, spilled product, powdery eye shadow residue, lost hair bands…does this sound familiar? Jumbling your beauty and skin care products together can be disastrous (and costly). Trust me on this; just don’t ask me how I know.

WHY  ORGANIZE?

Organization saves:

• Time – When everything has a designated place, you don’t have to waste time searching for it.
• Money – Have you ever lost your favorite lipstick and found yourself running to your local makeup counter to buy it again (only to find it hiding in a bag of unorganized products the very next day)? No comment.
• Peace of mind – Organization minimizes stress and anxiety.

5 SIMPLE IDEAS TO HELP YOU GET ORGANIZED

1. Group like products together: eye shadows, lipsticks, pencils, brushes, hair products, etc.
2. Use containers you already have (those candle jars I’ve been saving came in handy for this project).
3. Keep it clean. Throw away broken pieces and containers. Discard bottles of almost empty or old products you no longer use (A great way to keep track of how long you’ve had a product is to write the month and year that you first opened it on a small round sticker and put it on the bottom of the bottle, jar, or tube). Also, remember to close lids tight to prevent spills and leaks.
4. Put items back in their designated place when finished. It is easy to relax once the job is complete. Resist the tempation to scatter and mix products up again.
5. Store your daily essentials in a separate makeup bag – easy to find when running late and quick to grab for a last minute overnight trip.

START ORGANIZING TODAY

Sometimes just the thought of organizing can be a little overwhelming. Take the pressure off and start small. Do a little every day. Begin with one section or product at a time and then move to the next. For example, arrange your makeup this week, and whip your hair products and nail polish into shape next week. You will be organized (and happier) before you know it!

With all the holiday razzle dazzle coming to a close, the lipstick gets traded in for lip balm. It’s winter. It’s cold out. No matter what your skin type is, you’re bound to get some case of the winter skin blues over the next couple months. What better way to treat winter skin than with new skincare products? January is a great time to check out brand new products, or some oldies but goodies that got an ingredient makeover.

The best new skincare products:

Bliss Youth As We Know It Night Cream

Bliss’s Youth As We Know It product line has been out for some time. It’s known to be a great anti-aging line for mature skin. They’ve now up the ante with this night cream. This is not your grandmother’s night cream, this is light weight with a feathery texture that absorbs easily. It’s packed with vitamin A which is great for evening out skin. The cream works on repairing firmness while protecting against further free radical damage.

Boscia Detoxifying Black Cleanser

Boscia launched their Luminizing Black Mask in 2010 and the line has exploded from there. What’s the “black” part of it? Charcoal. It’s meant for purifying and detoxifying. Oilier skins will love this product. It also contains glycolic acid which will the skin feel velvety smooth. It takes off all traces of makeup.

Clinique Moisture Surge Intense Skin Fortifying Hydrator

Now this product is most definitely for that winter skin. Clinique has taken their classic moisture surge gel and added intense repairing and hydrating power to this new product. It’s made for very dry, dry, or dry combination skin types. Every skin has a natural moisture barrier, but environmental factors (like wind or cold weather) can cause the barrier to break. When this happens your skin isn’t able to hold moisture in. This new moisture surge product will moisturize and lock it in.

Bonus: You can also try out Clinque’s new Moisture Surge Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15.

Almay Moisturizing Eye Makeup Remover Pads

The Almay eye makeup remover is one of the most popular, especially for sensitive eyes. Now your nighttime routine has gotten easier with these pre saturated pads. The makeup remover is infused with aloe, cucumber, and green tea. It works on water resistant and water proof mascara too.

Lastly, I’ll leave you with a new makeup product that has major skincare benefits:

Hourglass Immaculate Liquid Powder Foundation

The Hourglass foundations are all over beauty blogs these days. Yes they are expensive but you won’t find a better complexion product. Their newest formula is mattifying and oil-free and includes anti-aging ingredients for ultimate smoothness.

What are your favorite winter skin products?  Any new products you’ve tried lately?

And no matter what we do or do not do, there is always room for improvement.

Photo Credit

Here are some inexpensive (and practical) beauty resolutions you can start today.

1. Wear Sunscreen. Being a melanoma cancer survivor, this is my #1. Basking in the warm glow of the sun can make us feel good, and in the short term, makes us look good. But the cumulative effects of sun exposure put us at higher risk of cellular damage, early wrinkling, age spots, actinic keratoses, and skin cancer. In addition to applying sunscreen, opt for a moisturizer with an SPF when choosing products for your face.
2. Exfoliate a couple of times a week for brighter, fresher looking skin (don’t forget exfoliation and hydration for your lips, also).
3. Be mindful of the foods you eat. Certain foods are rich in vitamins and help promote healthy skin. Some foods that made Dr. Oz’s list are: legumes, avocados, soybeans, nuts, salmon, tomatoes, and pomegranates.
4. Scrub that cellulite away! Try this Coffee and Brown Sugar Scrub (Hey, it’s worth a try).
5. Drink more water (think prunes). Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydrate.
6. Make sure you get your beauty rest. According to the Mayo Clinic, the average adult needs 7-9 hours of sleep every night . Getting the required z’s is important for performance, mental tasks, and, yes, looking our best.
7. Whiten your teeth (and don’t forget to floss!). A confident, healthy smile can transform your appearance. Check with your dentist about home remedies that might work for you.
8. Give yourself a mani and pedi at home. Don’t neglect your hands and feet; they work hard for you.
9. Clean your cell phone. (Eww. Seriously, have you ever thought about this?) If you have a few more bumps on the right side of your jaw, it could be from bacteria on your cell phone.
10. Leave those bad habits behind. Smoking leads to wrinkles, heavy drinking can dehydrate, and biting your fingernails is, well, gross.

The New Year provides an opportunity for us to look at the things we would like to leave behind and the things we want to take with us into 2012.  Our resolutions don’t have to be costly but being successful does require that dirty, ten letter word — discipline. Take inventory of what is working and what is not. Then take action and become a better, more beautiful you.

Happy New Year, beauties!

And what better time to shimmer and shine than the beginning of a promising new year?

Metallic Fashion Trends

No doubt you’ll have a nice selection of metallic shoes to choose from when shopping this next season. The Internet is full of eye candy from the New York Fashion Week revealing a mixture of light reflecting fabrics and accessories. Shoes are no exception.

From glitter to sequins, sparkly shoes create the perfect finishing touch for any outfit.

Get the party started early with these shimmery beauties from Aldo.

Mcintyde heels, $100 at Aldo

Love the idea of glittery platform stilettos but want to spend a little less?

$34.99 at Payless

These glam pumps from Payless are only $34.99.

These Shoes Were Made For Walking

Maybe just looking at these give you a sudden, sharp pain in the bottom of your feet. No worries. You don’t have to walk on your tip toes to look fabulous.

Glitter flats are also among the latest rage.

From flat to fab, the Tanner glitter flat from Madden girl will have you ditching the heels to dress up any outfit in a fresh way (and they’re only $44.95 at dsw.com).

$44.95 at dsw.com

Short on heels but high on glam, these flats may prove to be the perfect Saturday afternoon shopping companion.

Shine on a Budget

Following the latest styles and trends could put unwanted pressure on your checkbook but it doesn’t have to. If you– like most people these days– are living life to the fullest on a budget, here are a couple of ideas to help you shine while keeping your cash:

• Dress up the shoes you already have. Add some bling with these shoe clips found on etsy.com.

• Make your own metallic shoes with a little DIY glittering (and this project may help you to leave a little fairy dust wherever you go).

This next season is about putting your shiniest foot forward. I plan to do just that. And if this mama doesn’t get invited to the Ball or any fancy parties, she may just wear her silver shoes to the dinner table (I’m sure the hubs and kiddos won’t mind).

Repeat after me:

“I can wear red lipstick. I love red lipstick. I am powerful and beautiful while wearing red lipstick.”

Lots of ladies want to wear that sultry red lip, but they need to know how to wear red lipstick. There is the perfect pouty lip color out there for everyone. It comes down to two important factors: picking the best color and knowing how to apply it.

Color

Choose a color that you’re comfortable with. Go to the store and get prepared to swipe lipstick stripes all over your hand like the beauty advisors do. And feel free to ask one of the advisors for help. Don’t just be A red, pick YOUR red.

Texture

Some lipsticks have a texture that will go on and stick to the lip – no bleeding. While some creamier lipsticks need a lip liner.

Example:

Lancome L’Absolu Rouge is a moisture boosting formula, so be sure to wear lipliner. Try shade Absolute Rouge.

Buxom Big and Healthy Lip Stick is designed to be an all in one. Just draw it on, fill it in and you’re done. Try shade Barcelona.

Do’s and Don’ts

• Do dap on a bit of concealer or a lip primer before you apply either liner or lipstick.
• Don’t put lip balm in, it will make the color bleed.
• Do keep it in your purse for touch ups during the day.
• Don’t forget you’ve got a dark color on, no wiping or smearing.
• Do … look FABULOUS!

Here are some other favorites you might want to try:

Maybelline Super Stay 24 Hour Color in shade All Day Cherry

MAC Lipstick in shade Russian Red or Ruby Woo

Makeup Forever Rouge Artist Intense in shade 8

If all else fails and you just can’t be convinced to go all the way, you could go half way. Try a gloss, glaze or stain. Your lips will still have that pop of color, just in a more natural way.

Highly recommended:

Tarte LipSurgence Lip Stain in shade Lust

Stila Lip Glaze in shade Cranberry

Are any on your Christmas list?

1.     Magazine Subscriptions – One of my favorite gifts to give and receive. 12 months of fashion, style, and beauty inspiration in the form of Harper’s Bazaar, British Vogue, Lucky, and other fashion and style magazines.

2.     Glitter iPhone Case – At only $25, I’m hoping this little beauty from J.Crew ends up in my stocking.

3.     Sephora by OPI – Nail polish is an accessory just like jewelry and handbags. The Sephora by OPI gift set includes 18 of their newest hottest nail colors so your giftee will be sure to find a favorite.

4.     Gift Cards – I’m usually of the mind that gift cards are a cop out, but style can be really personal so buying a gift card to somewhere with a large selection (think shopping malls or online retailers) is a great way to make the fashion savvy in your life very very happy.

5.     eos Lip Spheres – 100% natural lip balm that comes in a unique sphere and six fruity flavors. I always have a sweet mint eos within arms reach. Also comes in sticks.

6.     Birchbox and Birchbox Man – After subscribing myself, this is a gift that excited to give this holiday season. Birchbox a monthly delivery of deluxe, handpicked product samples from some of the biggest names in beauty plus a points system that can be redeemed for full-size products.

7.     Lush Bath Bombs – These handmade treats make every bath a special occasion. With mood enhancing fragrances, flower petals, and moisturizing butters, they are an affordable and luxurious stocking stuffer. Butterball and Honey Bee are my personal favorites.

8.     Tweezerman – This Limited edition Tweezerman slant Tweezer with 10xTweezer magnifying mirror is perfect for purse or travel and undeniably handy.

9.     Goody Spin Pins – These little corkscrew bobby pins create fabulous updos in seconds and work for a variety of hair lengths and textures. I’m rockin’ one right now.

10.  Real Simple Sewing Kit – Wardrobe malfunctions happen and this sewing kit from Real Simple contains everything needed to secure a strap, stitch a hem, and mend a button.

Photo By Flickr Rebecca Schear

Ah yes that age old question “how to do a smokey eye.” As a makeup artist, it is the question I get asked most often. The smokey eye makeup look is the most asked for look in makeovers and special event appointments. You can perfect this sultry makeup look at home with some practice using these steps.

Smokey eye how to:

Step 1: prime and prep

If you’re going to put all this work into your smokey eye, your’e going to want it last all night. And you do not want it to crease. I highly recommend investing in an eye primer. You just need a bit, use your finger to blend it over the whole eye lid and up to the brow. At the very least, use your concealer so the eyeshadow has something to stick to.

Step 2: eyeliner

Use a kohl pencil to line around the whole eye into the lash line. Make it thicker on the top and thinner under the eye. The thicker you go the more dramatic it will be. Then take a liner brush (angled or straight) and smudge the line to create sultry look. You don’t have to be exact at all with this step.

Step 3: highlight

Take a very light white shade of shadow and brush on under your brow, on the inner most corner of your lid, and blend outwards to the middle of the lid. If you choose a matte shade of highlighter you will get a more natural look, if you choose a shimmery or sparkly highlighter color it will be more dramatic.

Step 4: the black eyeshadow

This is the step where you use your darkest color of eyeshadow. If you’re going for the full traditional smokey eye you would use black shadow. For a more mild sultry you can use a dark gray. Use a crease brush to apply the shadow to your natural crease and use a back and forth motion like a windshield wiper. Use a very little bit of shadow and build up. You can add more, it’s VERY hard to take color away.

Super Important Tip: When putting any color in your crease NEVER follow the the crease all the way down to the outer most point. This will give the appearance of sagging or droopy eyes. If you take a pencil and run it from the outer most point of your eye to the tip of the tail of your eyebrow – that is the point in your crease where you stop. Then take a bit more color and apply a tiny bit to the outer part of the lid, blending it upwards to the crease. See the picture.

Step 5: the gray shadow

You now have white shadow and black shadow. The last part is to use the gray to blend it together. Use a medium sized shadow brush. Start by putting the grey shadow on the middle and outer part of the lid and blend … a lot! Now use a very little amount of the gray shadow and blend into the crease as well.

Photo By Flickr dreamglowpumpkincat210

At this point step back and assess your edges and the shape of your smokey eye. Are you satisfied? If not, blend blend and blend some more.

Step 6: mascara

Use lots and lots and lots of coats of black mascara to get this look as dramatic as possible!

Extra tip:

If you experience troubles with flaking shadows there are two options to help you. Do your smokey eye first so that you can use any makeup remover to take off the excess shadow before you apply your complexion and blush products. Or, put a bunch of loose powder under your eye and on your cheek bone. The flakes of dark shadow will sit on top of the powder. When you’re done just use a fan brush or big powder brush and sweep it away.

What are your favorite smokey eye products to use?

If you’re like me and have curly hair, you’re already prone to dry, damaged hair and split ends seem to invade your hair moments after you get it trimmed.

To minimize the appearance of damage between haircuts, your hair will be aided by switching to moisturizing hair care products. Products that protect your hair during heat styling are fantastic too (for those of us who are slaves to the flat iron or the hair dryer). Occasionally, take a break from styling. When you have a lazy day, give your ‘do the day off – tuck it into a ball cap, or if you’re feeling ambitious, slather it with a deep conditioner after shampooing and let it treat your hair kindly while you relax as well.

Finding a great family of hair products helps. Avon’s Advanced Techniques for Dry/Damaged product line makes hair smell fabulous, leaves your hair sleek, and doesn’t strip it of the oils your dry hair so truly needs. When paired with Advanced Techniques 3D Leave-In Treatment, you get the added bonus of a product that repairs those pesky split ends – my gruesome split ends were barely noticeable with one application of the leave-in treatment!

This reasonably priced product line is a great addition to your hair care arsenal – a great treat for yourself at this time of year.

This post was written as part of my ambassadorship with Avon. While I am being compensated for my role as an ambassador, the opinions expressed are solely my own.

Photo by Flickr Tommerton2010

Skin looking dull? Skin that looks tired? How about blotchy skin? There are lots of reasons why our skin becomes uneven: sun damage, scarring, or aging.

Although skincare products don’t have the same power as laser repair, there are a lot of great products out there to restore radiance and even out skin tone. Radiance products come in various forms. There are moisturizers, serums, and peels. If you want the absolute best results for radiant skin you should choose one of each. Or if you uneven skin tone only needs a little nudge you can chose to add in only one or two of these categories into your regular skincare routine. Here are the best skin brightening products.

Moisturizers

Moisturizers have the least bang for your buck when it comes to brightening. The main point of a moisturizer is to, well, moisturizer so the majority of the ingredients will focus on that purpose. Therefore you only get minor radiance benefits built in to your day or night cream. But don’t worry they can still be effective at perking up tired skin.

Highly Recommended:

• Ole Henrikson Sheer Transformation
• Korres Wild Rose 24 Hour Moisturizing and Brightening Cream (made with rose!)

Serums

Serums are a power house of ingredients. You are going to get the highest concentration of brightening ingredients in a serum. Use as directed, but most can be used day or night. You only need one pump of serum applied directly to clean skin and follow with moisturizer (preferably a brightening moisturizer).

Highly Recommended:

• Clinique Even Better Clinical Skin Tone Corrector
• Caudalie Vinoperfect Complexion Correcting Radiance Serum (made with grapes!)

Peels

Peels are just a different way to exfoliate. Although calling it a peel can sound scary, rest assured that they are more than okay for at home use. The only word of caution is for the super sensitive skins, if you’re prone to reactions with exfoliation then stay away from peels. They are more intense than a regular scrub. But more intense is good if you want to even out your skin tone. Exfoliating removes dead skin and allows new, fresh, radiant skin to shine through. Make sure you use peels as directed because over exfoliating will reduce your desired results.

Highly Recommended:

• Dr Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel
• Skyn Iceland Nordic Skin Peel

BONUS product recommendation: mix this powder in to your serum or moisturizer for even better radiance results

Philosophy Turbo Booster C Powder (made with vitamin C)

Now just be patient and remember to use your products CONSISTENTLY. There’s no quick fix but it will be well worth the effort when you have glowing, radiant skin.

First, The Classics

If you’re looking for party-ready nails, head straight for the classics. Red, silver, and gold make your holiday wardrobe instantly festive and are perfect for all gathering—from office soirees to family dinners.

• Really Red by Essie
• Your Royal Shine-ness by OPI
• West End Wonderland by Butter London

The Nudes

The nude polish trend is still going strong with these wintery standouts adding a bit of pearl for subtle holiday flair. As in the past, Chanel leads the way in polish trends and duplicates aren’t hard to find.

• Camel by Chanel
• Shay by Zoya
• Nude Now by Sally Hansen
• Waking Up In Vegas by Deborah Lippmann

The Blues

Icy silvers and blues are an unexpected trend this winter, adding shimmer and shine to the dreary winter months. I think these colors are just the right amount of funky and festive without being too out there and I’m excited to pick up a few myself (I’ve already been wearing Essie’s Cocktail Bling for a few weeks).

• Cocktail Bling by Essie
• Naughty is the New Nice by Sephora by OPI
• Blue Ice by Sally Hansen Salon Effect
• Blank Slate by Sonia Kashuk

What colors will you be wearing this winter?

Bobbi Brown Exclusive Deluxe Beauty Trunk

Wowza! This is definitely the gift for any Bobbi Brown makeup fan! This deluxe beauty trunk features a sleek black case with interior mirror and six trays to hold and organize all of your eye shadow, moisturizer, and brush. The trunk comes with 22 of Bobbi Brown’s top beauty products including her famed concealer, face/eye cream and lip gloss. Retail $1,000.00

Philosophy Scented Shower Gels and Bath Products

Strawberry Shortcake. Creamy Frosting. Red Velvet. Need we say more? Philosopy the Recipe Box is a must-have gift for your favorite baker or anyone who loves scented bath and body products. Few things help us relax or feel pampered like a warm bath or shower with our favorite scents. Retail $18.00

Stri-Vectin SD  Ageless Skin Blockbuster Kit

If you know someone who is looking to boost their skin’s elasticity, smoothness, texture and minimize fine lines or wrinkles, then is the product for you! Six best sellers equal one powerful anti-aging regimen with this limited edition kit. Gently remove make-up and impurities, see less wrinkles and eye lines and tighten your skin for a smoother, more radiant look. Retail $99 (regularly priced at $189)

Sonia Kashuk Limited Holiday Edition

If your favorite lady loves sassy or sophisticated eye makeup and accessories the Sonia Kashuk’s limited holiday edition products are just what Santa ordered. Whether she’s looking to have the top lip colors for winter and fall or simply looking to try out new eye makeup techniques or colors, these products are sure to please. Retail $19.99-$24.99

I’m having commitment issues. It seems there are too many options out there and really, I don’t think a girl should have to choose.

I am talking about boots, of course.

If you spend anytime at all surfing the Internet or watching television (and I have a sneaking suspicion you do), no doubt you have seen the generous selection of women’s boots in various fashionable trends and styles for this Fall/Winter. I, personally, am smitten.

FASHIONABLE BOOT TRENDS 2011/2012

There is a boot for everyone. Trust me. No matter your taste or preference, the wide assortment of boots available will certainly include that special one you can’t live without.

While exploring your options, keep a watch out for these styles:

• Lace-ups
• Chunky and wedge heels
• Fur-trimmed
• Quilted or puffy
• Buckled or zippered
• Tall and sleek (or slouchy)
• Ankle boots, or booties

From chunky and wedge heel trends to tall, chic styles, boots stand proudly on display in department store windows in malls everywhere. Calling to me as I pass by, they beg for my attention. It just isn’t fair, especially if you shop on a budget (like me). But keeping your feet in style doesn’t have to break the bank.

Journee Buckle Accent Mid-Calf Boots, Overstock.com $53.99

These knee-high beauties can be found on Overstock.com for under $60.00. You may not want to vacuum your floors while wearing them, but the padded footwear provides comfort for casual day to day wear. The high heels and buckle and strap details also make this boot an option for dressing up for a girl’s night out or a hot date with the man of your dreams.

Suede Lace-Up Wedge Boots, Loft - Reg. $128, Sale 40% off

These suede boots come in the perfect color of Fall (makes me want to drink a caramel latte) and have a trendy wedge heel.

Ciao Bella Tabby Leather Riding Boot, DSW - $99.95

Everyone needs a simple (but sophisticated), flat riding boot like this one in their closet.

Coconuts Wendi Boot - DSW $59.99

You’ll be anything but slouchy wearing this stylish cuffed boot.

If the knee-high or mid-calf boot isn’t for you, you may want to check out an ankle boot, or bootie. Katherine Heigl’s super cute leopard booties caused quite a stir at a gas station recently (or may it was just because she’s Katherine Heigl).

Chinese Laundry Honey Bun Leopard Bootie, DSW - $69.95

Not the same booties as Katherine but some that will surely turn heads are these fabulous leopard booties with ruffles (yes, your feet like ruffles, too) from DSW. This fun fall animal-print accessory will help you take the great advice offered by InStyle and step out of the shoebox by going beyond the basic boot!

Lacey Faux-Fur Booties, Loft - Reg. $138, Sale 40% off

Laces and faux-fur seem to be on the invite list for all of this season’s events as well. These taller booties feature both.

Corral Sequin Eagle Inlay Cowgirl Boots, NRSworld.com $249.99

And because I’m a Texas girl, I could not exclude these boots. Whether in a cute dress or your favorite jeans, you will look fabulous with these on your feet.

I agree with Anna from Glamour, “Fall doesn’t officially start until you have a new pair of boots in your closet,” so embrace the Fall/Winter and use the cooler temperatures to your fashion advantage. No matter what boot you choose, you are sure to look your best in any of this season’s great styles!

The key to buying the top beauty gifts of the season is to get to the stores early.  These items are already in stores.  Holiday items typically hit the shelves November 1st, or earlier.  If you wait until December you may be out of luck.  One more tip (before the unveiling of the list), call or visit the store where you’re looking to pick up these limited edition items.  They should know how many shipments they’re getting of these items so you might be able to put something on hold or be put on a list for a phone call when the stock comes in.  An even better idea, have them call another store and pick up the gift as soon as you can.

Have I put the sense of urgency into your shopping?  Good, let’s unveil the list!

• Urban Decay Book of Shadows IV

This is one of the most anticipated makeup sets of the season.  Urban Decay is best known for their fabulous eye shadows and primers, this set has both.  For the first time ever it features a speaker with makeup tips and a plug for your smart phone to play music.

Price: $64.00

Available at: Urban Decay is sold at Sephora, Sephora inside JC Penny, Ulta, and MACY’s, call the store ahead to ensure they are stocking this item.

• Purr fragrance by Katy Perry

There is no photo that would do this bottle justice.  Purr has one of the cutest bottles with a kitty cat face as the lid and jewelled eyes.  Oh and it smells great too!

Price: 1 oz for $36.00, 1.7 oz for $45.00, 3.4 oz for $65.00 (not limited edition), call your store to check for limited edition gift sets

Available at: Nordstroms, Dillards, Ulta, Buckle, Sears Canada

• The Muppets OPI Holiday Collection

Textured nails are all the rage this year and OPI hits the mark with their Holiday Muppet collection.  Created as a tribute to the new Muppets movie in theatres this month, half of the collection is sparkly and half are fabulously bright holiday colours.

Price: $8.50 to $9.00 for one bottle and some stores carry a mini set of 4 for $12.50

Available at: Salons – use the OPI website for a salon locator near you

• Stila Lip Glaze Set

This gift is great for any age group because everyone loves a good lip gloss, or glaze.  You will not beat this deal of 8 shades for $25.00.  Stila lip glazes go on very smooth and smell delicious.

Price: $25.00

Available at: Sephora

• Sephora Collection Blockbuster

Sephora’s biggest holiday item of the season every single year comes to you this time built like a mini makeup case.  The packaging keeps getting cuter and you can be sure you’ll be hitting all of “her” makeup wishes with eyeshadows, lip glosses, blush, bronzer, cream eyeliner, kohl eyeliner, and mascara (oh my!)

Price: $49.50

Available at: Sephora

Happy shopping and leave a comment if you have any beauty buying questions for the Holiday Season.

Photo By Flickr Juliana Coutinho

Step 1: Complexion

Two things are important in getting your complexion just right – paleness and translucency. Buy some white liquid Halloween face makeup to mix with your tinted moisturizer. Stay away from using full coverage foundation and stay away from a thick cream white face paint. Mix the two products on the back of your hand and then apply to the face sparingly with a complexion sponge (or fingers will work too, just blend very well.) Make sure to blend all around the eyes, on the eye lids, and down on to the neck depending on your vampire costume. Extra tip: use complexion primer to make your makeup last all night.

Step 2: Contour

Remember that vampires are the undead so you’ll need to make your face look slightly sunken in. To achieve this you will need to contour just under the cheek bones. Take some matte bronzer with a blush brush. Squeeze the brush so the bristles are in the a tight line. Before you apply below the cheek bones suck your cheeks in and make a “fishy face.” Now you can really see where the contour should go. Start two inches from the lips and extend the contour all the way back in to the hairline. Blend well!

Step 3: Eyebrows

Draw them in thick. Vampires have a brooding look to them. To get that look you need to draw in your eyebrows with a pencil. Always remember when penciling in your eyebrows that you want to use the pencil in short strokes to replicate the hairs.

Step 4: Eyes

You can take a couple approaches to the eyelids. Either leave them pale or make a smokey eye by applying black liner to the lash line and smudge into a smokey line. Or just go totally scary and just concentrate on the hollows under the eye. Take a matte eyeshadow that’s a bluey-gray color and apply it right under the bottom lash line and thicker as you get towards the nose. Blend well!

Step 5: Lips

Photo By Flickr AlishaV

Most vampire makeup looks go either for a pale lip or for red lipstick. However if you want to achieve the best blood sucking lips you need to go for lip stain. Try the Twilight Lip Venom from Duwop.

Extra: Fangs and blood are optional!

Vampire not your thing? Check out these four other Halloween makeup tips including zombie makeup and mermaid.

Simple Knot. Classy Look.

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To get this look, simply tie the scarf in a knot, wear and go! The result? Classy Look. Photo by Flickr Maison Casol

Scarves are perfect for jazzing up denim, adding color to bland wardrobes and enhancing your chic factor. They’re easy to wear and look great on any body type.

If you’re looking for fabulous ways to rock your scarf this fall, check out some of this seasons hottest looks.

Princess / Fairy Makeup

Photo by Flickr YourDream Touch Photography

Copyright Morgan Shuker

The princess and the fairy can kind of be the same look-ish. You want to go soft pink on the lips and on the cheeks. For the eyes use soft blue for the lid and frosty white for under the brow. Line the top of the eye with black and press it right into the lash line. The most important product for this look is shimmer.

Recommended product: Tarina Tarantino Sparklicity Shimmer Dust

Mermaid Makeup

Photo by Flickr dreamglowpumpkincat210

Copyright Morgan Shuker

Again for this look, go easy on the cheeks and the lips. For the mermaid go shiny and coral for the lips and peach for cheeks. The most important part of the look is the eyes. Don’t be scared, it’s only three colors and eyeliner. Start with a thin black line along the top of the lash line and line under the eye as well.

Then, take a medium blue eyeshadow and a small brush and smudge into the eyeliner on the bottom and across the top of the lid. Next take a aqua green eyeshadow and  lightly swipe under the blue on the bottom. Now take the aqua green and blend into the crease and just a little bit onto the lid where it will meet the blue shadow. Last, use golden-green shadow under the brow bone.

Recommended product: Urban Decay Aquarius eye shadow

Zombie Makeup

Photo By Flickr vancouverfilmschool

Copyright Morgan Shuker

This isn’t exactly the sexiest look you’re going to find, but it’s legitimately Halloween. For the lips you want to go nude. Mix a light colored concealer or foundation with a clear lip gloss.

For the eyes you need to use a dark burgundy eye shadow around the lash line,  top and bottom. Use a angled brush and smudge the colour into a think line all around.

Next, take a medium purple shadow and a small brush and brush the the purple lightly and sparingly around where you’ve put the burgundy. You’ll want to blend the burgundy and the purple together but make sure you can still see two distinctive colors.

The most important part of this look is the contouring in the cheeks. Suck your cheeks in and do a fishy face with your mouth. See where your cheeks naturally sink in? That’s where you want to contour. Start about an inch from the mouth and angle your contour up toward the hair line. You can use a large eyeshadow brush. Or for a very natural look, squeeze the bristles on your blush brush to create a tight line to swipe the product onto the desired area. A matte bronzer works best for contouring.

Recommended product: Tarte Matte Waterproof Mineral Powder Bronzer

Cat Makeup

Photo by Flickr ToriMBC

Copyright Morgan Shuker

This is the perfect look if you’ve got no costume but want to look “dressed up.” You definitely need to do a cat eye look with the thick black winged out eye liner on your eye.

For the lips go cute and pink. On the cheeks start with applying a bronzer only to the apple of the cheeks and you can really layer it on. Next, take a brown eyeliner and draw on some little freckles. Then take a black eyeliner and draw on whiskers and a nose. The most important part is to use a waterproof and smudge proof black eyeliner for the whiskers and nose.

Recommended product: Makeup Forever Aqua Eyes 0L

Want more makeup tips?  You may also be interested in:

• The Basics of Makeup Primer
• Waterproof and Water Resistant Makeup

For More Halloween reading check out:

• Halloween DIY Round Up – The Best of Bliss

What can you say about a smile?  It’s often the first impression you make on someone.  It can light up a room.  It shows that you embrace the day and all that life has to offer.

It can be very contagious too!  Once you smile you’ll notice people smiling around you, gleaming off your energy – your inner and outer glow.  Just the act of smiling when you don’t quite feel up to it can turn the day around for you.  Don’t think so?  Try it!

Bliss TV engaged 5 women to talk about their confident smile.  These women are beautiful both outside and in – and their confidence shows.  They discuss the importance of a smile in this episode of Bliss TV.

Check out their blogs as well for their personal stories of smiles and confidence and how Crest 3D White 2 Hour Whitestrips can play a part in that confidence.

Jeanine at Beauty Sweet Spot talks about how you can rock a confidence building smile.

Erika at Chic Shopper Chick knows the value of her smile and so does her fiance!

I love the quote on Nichelle Style Mom’s post – “Beauty is power; a smile is its sword….”

Jen at Balancing Beauty and Bedlam knows first impressions count.

Danielle of Extraordinary Mommy feels strong and confident when she smiles.

We all have occasions where we want to put our best foot forward.  It might be a job interview, dinner date, or family function.  Knowing that we will go in with a confident smile can be a great start to the event and carry us the whole way through.

Be confident.  Be yourself.  And do it with a smile.

This post was sponsored by Bliss TV and Crest 3D White 2 Hour Express Whitestrips

However, I’m not satisfied with whatever fits this fall. I’m looking for clothing that match my body type so that when I’m in the office or at a networking event, I can look my best.

There are five most common necklines to consider when shopping for your body type this fall:

• Turtle Neckline
• Cowl Neckline
• Crew Neckline
• Vee Neckline
• Scoop Neckline

If you’re average in build then you’re in luck because just about any neckline will look good on you. The key is to build a sense of balance in your appearance.

The Best Necklines for Large Framed Body Types

scoop neckline photo by holland cox

The scoop neck and vee neck are the best choices for a woman who has a large frame. Both necklines elongate the neck and shoulders and draw attention to the shape of the face as well as the bust. The vee neck and scoop necklines also offer a more vertical line to the body.

The cowl neckline may also be a good choice for wider builds, women with wider faces or a shorter neck as it gives the illusion of a collar. One thing to note, petite or small framed women will want to avoid a cowl neck as it often accentuates a short stature.

Necklines for Small Framed Body Types

knitted top by p2squared

The crew neck which is a high rounded neckline is normally seen on t-shirts and knitted tops are also recommended for petite, small framed women. The crew neckline can create the impression of a shorter neck because of how high it comes up on the chest. As I mentioned before, the vee neck is very forgiving and looks good on many body types. Because of this, a vee neckline is also appropriate for small framed or petite women.

On Turtle Necklines

Turtleneck photo by carbonated

Turtle necklines are popular across all body types because, well they keep your neck warm! However, that doesn’t mean that they’re perfect for all body types. Turtlenecks are generally recommended for thinner body types; specifically women who have narrow shoulders and/or long necks. The turtleneck creates a balance while it can cause women with wider faces or broad shoulders to look even wider than they already are.

Think about the look you’re trying to create; are you going for a long and lean look? Sometimes the right neckline can make you look thinner and more elongated.

A Word about Bust Size

If you have an average bust size, all of these necklines will work well for you. However, if you have a small or large bust, then consider your bust as you would your shoulder width and choose the neckline that is appropriate for your shoulder width. For example, women with wide shoulders (and subsequently larger frames) would want to choose vee necks, cowl or scoop necks as mentioned above.

Choosing the right neckline is all about proportion and creating the right amount of balance from your neck down. One final thought on creating the right neckline look; as fashion continues to change, feel free to mix and match necklines. Mixing a collar neckline (similar to a cowl) with a scoop neck can create a unique and fashionable look that works well with your body type and frame.

Photo by PhotoXpress ©Stepanov

This isn’t your average beauty article. Beauty is about more than wearing beauty products, a lot more. Of course when we’re on the record with ourselves and our daughters, we say that it’s what inside it counts. But let’s face it, we also love dressing up in our high heels and our lipstick. We’re walking a fine line when it comes to our self esteem and walking the walk in front of our kids.  So what should we do?

Some ways to feel good about not wearing makeup:

• Go ahead spend some time without makeup. Start with Saturdays when you’re doing laundry and visiting the grocery store. Oh and don’t cheat with those huge sunglasses. Check yourself out in the mirror as often as possible, and start appreciating what you see.
• Focus on eating well and taking care of your skin. Engaging in these healthy habits will make your skin brighter and more clear. Having a great complexion can go a long way in starting to love on that reflection staring back at you.
• Get lots of sleep and control stress. Yes, that’s easier said than done. But again, if you take care of yourself you’ll feel better, be happier, and smile more. Smiling makes everyone look beautiful, glossy or not!

Some ways to talk to your daughter about wearing makeup:

Photo by Flickr PinkStockPhotos

Although this point isn’t the most complete explanation, it is an option. Tell her to think about wearing makeup like adding an accessory to an outfit. It will add to the over all look if you’re trying to be fancy, but it isn’t mandatory. You can also tell your daughter that it’s only for special occasions, as long as you stick to this rule.

The best way to prove that women can be great for reasons other than appearance is to carefully choose role models. Think of athletes, although they may wear makeup in their advertisements and commercials there are many tennis and WNBA players that focus on perfecting their sport instead of what they look like. Also, give your daughter plenty of compliments about who she is rather than “you look so pretty.”

A great website to talk to your teen about feeling beautiful just the way they are is OperationBeautiful.com. This site was started by Caitlin Boyle as a means to make anyone, any gender, any age feel better about themselves.

“The goal of the Operation Beautiful website is to end negative self-talk.” Caitlin and now thousand of others leave post-it notes in places where others will find them. The messages say things like “celebrate your unique beauty” and “you are much more than the flaws you see.”

Caitlin has already published the first Operation Beautiful book and the Teen edition will be out in July 2012. In the meantime head over to the site, either by yourself or with your daughter.

And remember … YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL!

When I heard her say the words, I thought to myself surely she’s exaggerating. After all, I’ve used several different whitening products over the years without much success. The closest I came to having a brighter smile was having my picture taken  in  fluorescent lighting. In fact, many of the whitening products left me with hyper-sensitive teeth, an awful aftertaste or splotchy results.

Much to my surprise that wasn’t the case with Crest 3D White 2 Hour Express. In all honesty, I was hoping it would work but skeptical that it would that is until I got my children’s reaction and saw the results for myself. The product didn’t leave me with sensitive teeth or irritated gums. The product did not leak through the whitestrips like other brands do which meant I didn’t taste a thing! BONUS! Here are my before and after pictures side by side:

Below are the same pictures with a close up on the teeth. The difference is evident. What do you think?

Both pictures were taken in natural light, 2 hours apart. As you can see from the pictures, I have a much brighter smile thanks to Crest 3D White 2 Hour Express Whitestrips (retail $54.99). After just ONE 2 hour treatment, tooth stains were removed below my teeth’s surface, allowing my smile to be in tip-top shape for any of life’s spontaneous moments!

Remember that gala I was telling you about? It’s tomorrow and I’m super excited. I’ll be donning a one-of-a-kind designer gown belonging to my late grandmother and my pearly whites are as bright as ever! Definitely, the right recipe for a great weekend!

“What life event would you whiten for in just two hours withCrest 3D White 2 Hour Express Whitestrips?”

Note: “I am participating in a Crest 3D White 2 Hour Express Whitestrips campaign hosted by One2One Network. This is a sponsored post. All opinions are 100% my own.”