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.


Wednesday, June 24, 2009

sunscreen: rock on


I'm all about touch. To be honest, I fell in love with Rock & Republic's extraordinary makeup collection because of its sleek, extravagant packaging. But I have to say, the products are just as unbelievable. From rich, vibrant colors to luxurious textures, they make you feel like you deserve to indulge. I recently tried the Classic Tinted Primer SPF 20 ($46) and wished all sunscreens could feel so decadent. The mousse-like formula spreads on evenly and absorbs quickly, providing sheer coverage with a matte finish. If it's true that the silicone base fills in fine lines and minimizes pores, I plan to use it every day. The best part: I can skip my morning coffee. The primer has caffeine in it to stimulate circulation and energize the skin. Also, try the Accentuate Bronzer/Highlighter for Face and Cheeks ($45) featuring a matte shade of bronzer designed for all skin tones and a shimmer finish highlighter in coral, rose or gold. Swarovski compact and kabuki brush ($225) sold separately. Available at Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale's and Nordstrom and www.rockandrepublic.com.

Sunday, June 21, 2009

scents of summer

What better way to start summer than with a fresh new scent? Hubert and Isabelle d'Ornano recently introduced a trio of fragrances that represent fantasy, lightness and elegant simplicity. Each is reminiscent of a different type of summer dress. Eau de Sisley 1 represents a sunkissed dress with hints of the garden, Eau de Sisley 2 exemplifies a white summer dress dotted with green notes and Eau de Sisley 3 pays homage to a seductive dress adorned with red rubies. I was lucky enough to try Eau de Sisley 1, a scent that hints of rays of sunshine, fresh cut grass, wild flowers and all things summer. Its top notes include green mandarin, grapefruit, pink berries and spices. The middle notes are water jasmine, green tea and juniper berries and the base is made up of patchouli and musks. It starts out crisp and fresh and ends with a soft, clean scent that lingers on the skin. Plus, it's light enough for summer while having a definite personality of its own. To try one or all three ($165 each), go to www.neimanmarcus.com.