Beauty is in the eye of the beholder...and those of us holding the mascara wand.

After two decades of covering the beauty industry, I've come to learn what makes it so alluring. Finding the perfect shade of makeup to match your skin tone, adding a swipe of eyeliner to give your tired eyes a lift, discovering an innovative new product line, or indulging in a totally luxurious spa treatment. My experiences have been documented in magazines, newspapers and websites worldwide. I've tested newly formulated products in the lab, explored hair removal options, shopped for lipstick, added shine to my hair and succumbed to massage marathons--all in the name of beauty. I've written press releases, hosted makeover events and co-authored a Do-It-Yourself Beauty book (Alloy). On this blog, I write about products and services that I come across every day as well as those that have been provided by publicists or the companies that make them. Either way, I write what I think. I hope to share some of my insights--and bring you the latest, greatest beauty news right here. Join me in the quest to find all things pretty.


Sunday, September 11, 2011

fashion week: the big red bus

It's hard to miss the big red bus stationed outside Lincoln Center for fashion week, waiting to makeup, polish and primp any fashionista who wants a pick-me-up during the shows. I was one of the first to get an appointment.

First, Theresa Ann, nail specialist from Red Door Spas at Woodbury Village painted my nails in the same shade bestowed upon the models behind the scenes at the Nicholas K fashion show--a silvery lavender hue.

"It looks great against any skin tone," says Theresa who was up at 4, did her own makeup on the LIRR, and was at the tents at 6 a.m. to prep models for the show.

Next, I got a complete makeover from makeup artist/image consultant Vivian Wynter, who gave me a subtly smoky eye, beautifully blended concealed skin, perfectly contoured cheeks and a glamorous nude lip.

I left the bus feeling more than ready to brave the endless days of fashion week that lay ahead.

For more info, go to reddoorspas.com.

fashion week: chic bohemian

Looking for a hair style that's sophisticated but classic? Zahir Ziani, national creative director and master hair stylist for Red Door Spas offered this look for the models at the Nicholas K show. He left the hair straight and flowing with three small textured braids extending from the nape of the neck. For some models, headscarves were used to illustrate the natural, celestial movement of the sea.

"I was inspired by the chic bohemian look," says Ziani, "and the feeling of a woman walking in a desert full of beautiful clothes." He created three side braids woven close to the scalp and left the rest of the hair sleek and smooth. Try Kerastase Elixir Ultime for a longer-lasting smooth blowout and a drop of shine, plus a touch of spray to make the look last but keep it natural.