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.


Monday, December 27, 2010

eat healthfully throughout the holidays


Holiday parties and out of town guests don't have to mean lots of added calories. Celebrity nutritionist Paula Simpson offers five ways to stay slim during the holidays...and get a jump start on your new year's resolution.



  • Eat a High-Carb, High-Fiber Breakfast!
    Make a habit of eating a high-fiber, carbohydrate-rich breakfast, to start your day more focused and energized. A half-cup of high-fiber cereal can contain as much as 14 grams of fiber, and some high-fiber bread has 6 grams per slice. Aim for a total of 25 – 30 grams of fiber daily to best stabilize energy levels. Not a breakfast eater? Try a berry protein smoothie!
  • Smart Snacking!
    Look for whole grain crackers with nut butter (almond, peanut, or cashew). Or go for an all-natural protein/energy bar. Make sure they have between 10 – 15 grams of protein, 5 grams of fat, and 20 grams of carbs.
  • Eat a Handful of Almonds!
    Like all nuts, they are a great source of protein. They are high in fiber and vitamin E and almonds contain more calcium than any other nut. Their source of protein and fat helps to satisfy hunger and energy longer.
  • Choose Living Foods More Often!
    Living foods are alive, colorful, fresh, and raw. Plus, they don’t contain artificial ingredients and they provide lots of vitamins and minerals. Plus, most veggies and fruit tend to contain more than half water – so they keep your body hydrated.
  • Try a Nutritional Supplement!
    If you can’t get everything you need via food during these busy times, consider an antioxidant charged nutritional supplement for energy, clarity, and to help minimize the risk of holiday bulge.

Thursday, December 9, 2010

expert advice: interview with Steve Anderson, pro makeup artist

Ever wonder what it's like to be a professional makeup artist? Makeup guru Steve Anderson shares his insider view, courtesy of mysocialbeauty.com.

Q: Is working on a film set how you imagined it would be?
A: I have spent 25 years on Film and Television sets, and yes it has been what I imagined it would be, but every now and then I will be surprised with a new twist or event. All sets are NOT created equal.

Q: Any activities or special projects you partook in while in school that helped you get ahead?
A: That was a long time ago, but what helped me was to treat each project as equally important and give it my best efforts.

Q: Are they any other exciting projects on tap for the near future?
A: There are several films coming out in the near future that I had the pleasure to work on. “Conviction” with Hillary Swank, Sam Rockwell, and Mini Driver, brilliantly directed by Tony Goldwyn, where Makeup Artist Vivian Baker and I helped to create a very character driven true story that takes place over a forty-year period. “Stone” with Robert De Niro, and Edward Norton (I was his Mr. Norton's Personal Makeup Artist on this film). ‘Here After” Directed by Clint Eastwood, and I completed the film “One for the Money” starring Katherine Heigl and Jason O’Mara. This is a film based on the popular “Stephanie Plums” novels.

Q: What advice can you give to makeup artists aspiring to be in your shoes?
A: It is a very hard, competitive and fickle business... you really want to take this profession seriously. There are a huge amount of makeup artists out there now, and those ranks are swelling every day as new "Makeup Artists" are graduating from so many makeup artist schools. To rise above the throng, first know your craft as completely as possible, updating your skills as often as you can. Keep a professional attitude and a sense of integrity. In that I mean, act ethically with your dealings with producers, actors and other makeup artists. And mostly, love what you do. Have a passion for the craft and the work itself.

Q: What's the most useful beauty advice you were ever told?
A: Stay current, but use what works well, both with materials, and techniques... And never approach an actor without a box of tissues on you.

Steven Anderson has spent 25 years as a Journeyman Makeup Artist working on many well-known film and television sets.

For more great beauty stories, go to mysocialbeauty.com.

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Get Set to Smooch: Enter Nivea's Kiss the One You Love Contest


Whether you're planning on giving your Aunt Esther a kiss as you walk in the door of her holiday celebration or snooching under the mistletoe with that special someone, Nivea's got you covered. The brand's A Kiss of Moisture Hydrating Lip Care SPF 4 promises uber-smooth lips with every application. But now there's another reason to keep your lips feeling soft and smooth.

Nivea introduces its Kiss the One You Love Contest on Facebook, a viral campaign that aims to bring together couples that may otherwise be kept apart this holiday season, to share their love stories for a chance to win the opportunity to spend New Year’s Eve together in Times Square. Facebook users can vote for their favorite couple and ultimately decide which two winning couples will be flown to New York City and prepare to be kissed when the clock strikes midnight. Two winning couples will experience one of the most important kisses of the year in Times Square during the world’s most exciting New Year’s Eve celebration.

Now through December 23rd, couples can log onto Facebook.com/NIVEAusa and share their stories of love and how they have been kept apart this holiday season on a personal profile page, complete with a (optional) photo and personal URL. The couple’s entry will also be viewable on the main contest page where consumers can view and vote on their favorite love stories.

Added features of NIVEA’s Kiss the One You Love Contest application include easy sharing capabilities featuring visuals of the couple so they can rally their friends and family to vote by forwarding their profile as well as posting contest details on personal walls and link to Twitter to capture votes. Voting will come to a close on December 23, 2010 at 11:59 PM and the winning couples will be announced on December 28th via Facebook. To upload your story and vote for your favorite couple, visit Facebook.com/NIVEAusa.

As the official sponsor of the Times Square Alliance New Year’s Eve Celebration for the third consecutive year, NIVEA will unite thousands of people in Times Square for one of the most memorable kisses as the clock strikes midnight. Throughout the evening, the NIVEA Kiss Platform will feature memorable moments to entertain the crowd. NIVEA will paint Times Square blue and white creating the signature “sea of blue” featuring New Year’s Eve accessories and NIVEA Lip Care products to protect the lips of revelers in Times Square as they prepare to be kissed on New Year’s Eve.


So what are you waiting for? Sign up for this exciting event on Facebook today at Facebook.com/NIVEAusa and beat the long distance relationship blues.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

get your veggies


I've been dying to try the Yes To line of skin care products every since I read about it in WWD. It's such an innovative concept and sounds so good for you. So when Yes to Blueberries launched, I finally got my hands on it. I eagerly tested Age Refresh Overnight Hydrating Cream, Smoothing Daily Cleanser and Daily Repairing Moisturizer but I was somewhat disappointed. I just didn't feel like they did much for my skin and I didn't love the scent so I was reluctant to keep using the products. But before I turned a cold shoulder on the entire line, I decided to try some of the other Yes to products. I loved the rich, moisturizing effects of Yes to Carrots Hydrating Body Lotion with SPF 30, especially on extra dry areas like knees and elbows. I really liked Yes to Tomatoes Deep Cleansing Facial Pads, which left my skin feeling clean and refreshed. And you can't go wrong with Yes to Cucumbers Soothing Eye Gel (my favorite), designed to smooth and brighten skin around the eyes. It's even more soothing than the actual cucumber slices themselves. And you can feel it tightening and firming as it sets into your skin. Who doesn't want that? To pick your favorite vegetable from the Yes to garden, go to www.yestocarrots.com.

Monday, November 8, 2010

read between the fine lines


Will anything help my fine lines and dark circles? It's hard to say. They are such serious skin problems to tackle. I will basically try anything to make it happen...so I tried Lily.B's Multi-Action Rescue Ultra Eye Cream. First, I love the scent. Not overbearing, just pleasantly pretty. But you don't buy eye cream because it smells good. I also love the rich texture of the cream, featuring jojoba oil, vitamin K and arnica montana (a natural inflammatory which we could all use!). My skin feels super soft around my eye area so it's already beginning to accomplish something. I obviously won't know for some time how well it improves tone and texture, but I can tell you that I like what it feels like so that makes me want to use it more. For more info about Lily B. products, including the nutrient-rich 24/7 Defense Daily Moisturizer, go to www.lilybskincare.com.

Friday, November 5, 2010

throw in the towel


It's November so, chances are, your golden glow has long faded. Yet it's at this time of the year--with the holiday season just around the corner--that you need to look your best. (The last thing you want is Aunt Sadie saying "If you look like that, you'll be single forever!" and Cousin Arthur thinking you're still wearing your ghost costume from Halloween!) The solution: If you can't afford a vacation in the tropics, try self-tanning. Stop grumbling--not all self-tanners involve orange-stained hands, a chemical scent and an artificial-looking end result. TanTowel takes self-tanning to a whole new level. It looks like a hand-wipe packet but it's actually self-tanner in a towelette. Just tear open the packet, remove the towelette and swipe all over your face and body (available in half body or full body size--box of TanTowel Classics, $21 each; box of TanTowel Plus, $25.25 each). My favorite part: There's an X-foliator towelette too ($21 per box) that you can use before you self-tan to keep your skin buffed and smooth. This is the easiest exfoliator I've ever used! One side of the towelette exfoliates while the other side buffs and smooths your skin--use it in or out of the shower and you don't even have to rinse it off! But getting back to the self-tanner. It's easy to use, dries quickly and doesn't leave streaks or spots. I used the Classic version for a subtle dose of color but you can try the Plus towelette for a deeper, darker tan. My friends commented on the fact that I look rested and refreshed but couldn't exactly pinpoint why! TanTowel also has an Express Self-Tan Kit ($30), On the Glow Body daily moisturizer ($17), On the Glow Face Moisturizer ($8.50), On the Glow Face Tinted Moisturizer ($19), Moisture Mist ($21), Tanning Mist ($21), SPF Mist 30+ ($21), Bronzer ($26) and Lip Gloss ($15). For more info, go to www.tantowel.com.

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

time to detox


Just as the weather starts to change (finally!) and we enter the frenzied schedule of pre-holiday planning, I usually feel the need to refresh, recharge and, well, detox. EmerginC's Scientific Organics line is the perfect antidote. Thanks to an ingredient called Kombucha, a fermented tea known for its medicinal uses, the products are designed to hydrate, balance, minimize fine lines, protect from the sun, balance irregular skin tones, soothe skin ailments and provide antioxidants. The Kombucha Cleanser ($34) feels clean and moisturizing on my skin. The Phytocell Cream ($85) is super-hydrating and leaves my skin with a subtle glow. But the Phytocell Detox Mask ($50) is my favorite. The clay-based formula removes impurities, nourishes, tones and improves the texture of the skin. And it feels great. Lightweight and quick-drying, the mask is easy to apply (just smooth on with fingertips) and simple to remove (let dry for 10-15 minutes and rinse). My face felt smooth and radiant after two uses (one to three times a week is recommended). Learn more about Scientific Organics products at www.emerginc.com.

Sunday, October 17, 2010

site focus: beauty connexion

A marketing and advertising veteran of 20 years, Roula Panagiotopoulos is an expert on promoting woman-focussed brands. She spent four years at an international skin care company and left there with a drive to provide woman with real honest information about skincare.

"The fact is, once my girlfriends found out my background they would pester me with all their skincare questions…like, "I have this, what do you think?" So she launched Beauty Connexion one year ago.

"We are a resource for women for all things beautiful from skin care, to style, to home, even down to their finances. For those savvy individuals, we provide expert articles, how to's, and new product launches. It's all about real information." Here, she shares her experiences with PrettyIsPrettyDoes...

Prettyisprettydoes: What is the inspiration behind Beauty Connexion?
Roula Panagiotopoulos: "The inspiration was two-fold. First, there were my girlfriends. Knowing my background in skincare, they would continually ask me about new products and what I would recommend for their skin type. The light bulb went off in my head quite quickly, making me realize the need for real information that was out there. In addition, there was my desire to support budding women entrepreneurs and give them a place where they can introduce their products. One of our recent features highlights woman entrepreneurs (5 Minutes With:) We have received great feedback on it. At the end of the day, it was about connecting the two."

PIPD: How does Beauty Connexion differ from other beauty oriented websites?
RP: "It is our experts that lead the way. These are industry experts that are currently working in the field in which they are writing about. And we feel that this manifests into articles with information that is unbiased and real. What we always strive for in our articles is to provide our audience with a little nugget of information they may not have been found anywhere else. For example we recently covered a launch of a new skin care treatment and, being curiously minded, we wanted to know what ingredient provided the effect so we dug a little deeper and shared that with our audience."

PIPD: Where do you hope to see Beauty Connexion five years from now?
RP: "We turn one in this month. It has been a tremendous year and we have been growing and learning along the way. Our goal for beauty connexion is to become the wikipedia of beauty and, in doing so, continue to help woman launch their beauty brands and bring aspiration to younger women."

For more info, go to www.beautyconnexion.com.
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Sunday, October 10, 2010

fabulously flawless

It's hard to believe all the hype about mineral makeup minimizing your fine lines and covering your flaws. No matter which brands I've tried, they've often resulted in the inevitably cakey look.

Not KSS Professional. I was eager to try it since it seemed so simple to use (the company provides videos that demonstrate the product usage so it couldn't be easier): A little goes a long way so just dot disperse a small amount of the loose mineral powder over your face, then buff it out. Repeat using the mineral foundation in a personally selected shade. The results? Flawless!

But don't take my word for it...listen to the comments I got when wearing it:

"What did you do differently? You're glowing!"

"Your skin looks great. You look so rested, like you just got back from vacation."

"What kind of foundation do you use? It looks so natural."

One friend was so enthralled with my new look, she wanted to try the product right away. The next day happened to be her birthday so I wrapped up my precious products and actually gave them to her! She said it was the best birthday present ever!

So how do the products offer such a natural effect? The loose powders are crafted by hand and made from the highest-quality ingredients. Plus, they're easy to apply, last all day and feel as though you are wearing nothing at all.

The line consists of nine shades of foundation ($25), Universal Powder ($16), and a no-shed guarantee, vegan brush ($20--it's SO soft, you have to try it!). With titanium dioxide (SPF ranges from 30 to 70 naturally!) being the main ingredient, the line is ideal for athletic women as well as those on-the-go since it's humidity and sweat resistant/proof.

In addition to making women look good, the KSS Professional team also helps local Kansas City women feel good--by donating 5% of the company's profits to its Foundation Foundation.

KSS Professional products can only be obtained through professionals. So click on www.kssprofessional.com to find a salon in your area where the products can be purchased.

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

pony up!

Shu Uemura hairstylist Matthew Morris gives the traditional ponytail a new edge for spring.

The clothes that fashion designers Andy and Debb sent down the runway for Spring were based on international design elements; they were simultaneously hard and soft since they have hard lines but soft colors. To complement the look, Matthew Morris, lead stylist for Andy & Debb from Shu Uemura Art of Hair, was commissioned to create a masterful hairstyle that could incorporate both elements. What he came up with: A pulled back ponytail that was slicked on top but full of volume at the tail.

“There’s an explosion of texture in the ponytail after it’s bound,” says Morris, who used Shu Uemura Liquid Fabric Mineral Texture Spray ($33; 8.5 oz.) along with Shu Uemura Sheer Lacquer Hair Spray ($33; 8 oz.) to create the look. Liquid Fabric is designed to revitalize your curl/wave pattern with a natural looking finish while offering moisture balance, humidity resistance and frizz-control. Sheer Lacquer is a weightless finishing spray that gives hair hold as well as a soft, natural-looking finish. Layer it on for your desired amount of control. To up the authenticity factor, Morris left some “fuzzies” to frame the face for a just-pulled-on sweater effect. He fastened the ponytail with an elastic instead of wrapping the hair, which he says is “SO pedestrian.”

The best part: This is a look that women of any age can pull off. While more mature women often wear their hair in ponytails to try to preserve their youth, it can often look staid—and outdated. But this sleek/volumized style gives the traditional ponytail a fresh, modern edge.

Too extreme for your measures? Use minimal product to avoid making the slicked or volumized part look too severe. For the show, Morris spent a good deal of time teasing and fluffing the model’s ponytails for volume, body and personality. His advice: Real women should tease lightly for a softer yet equally alluring effect.

For more info on Shu Uemura products, go towww.shuuemura-usa.com.

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

lash bash

Just because summer's over, doesn't mean you can ditch your waterproof mascara. There are still plenty of things to shed a tear over (a breakup!), sentimental movies to sniffle at and a rain storm here or there. So if you don't want to go for eyelash extensions, you need to find the best mascara for you. Sexy Curves Waterproof Mascara ($7.49) from Rimmel. The 100% waterproof formula stays in place until you want to take it off and features the Aquatrap System, a wash-off resistant emulsion with Linseed Oil to promote lash health. The best thing about this lash mascara: The Triple Plump Brush boasts an hourglass shape that reminds me of a caterpillar--thick portions interspersed with thinner portions to evenly distribute the formula and curl and declump lashes. Plus, the case is really lightweight so you can throw it in your purse without feeling a weight on your shoulder. After just one application, your eyelashes will look revitalized, making it a decent volume mascara as well as a waterproof option. Great for everyday or special occasions, it will make your lashes come alive. For more info, go to www.rimmellondon.com.


expert advice: get lush lashes, from CA dermatologist Lorrie Klein

We apply eyebrow pencil to make our brows look fuller but what can we do for sparse lashes? You know, the kind you can barely see in the mirror? Sure, there are different types of mascara designed to lengthen and volumize. But if you want a more permanent solution, check out the Latisse procedure from Dr. Lorrie Klein, Laguna Niguel, CA dermatologist and RealSelf.com contributor. It scored 90% on Real Self's Worth It Index.

Here, Dr. Klein shares her experiences with the treatment. Read on, then bat away!

Prettyisprettydoes: What is the Latisse procedure? How is it done?
Lorrie Klein: "
Latisse is a prescription product that's applied topically to the eyelid, along the eyelashes, to enhance eyelash growth. It is used once daily for three to four months until the desired length or fullness is achieved, and can then be used every other day for maintenance."

PIPD: Who are the best candidates? Is there anyone who shouldn't try it?
LK: "
The best candidates are people with thin, short and/or sparse eyelashes who desire longer, thicker, fuller lashes. People with a known sensitivity to bimatoprost should not use it."

PIPD: What are the pros and cons of the treatment?
LK: "The pros: You can easily use it at home in about 30 seconds a day. In my experience, it works on everyone. It gives women longer, thicker lashes. The cons: It must be applied daily and then at least three times a week during maintenance or lashes eventually will go back to their original state. It can be costly for some, although if used with a different, finer, reusable brush, one vial can last up to six months once on maintenance.

PIPD: What are the side effects of the drug?
LK:
"Some have skin irritation. The eyes can also get irritated, but if used carefully it should only be getting into the eye minimally. Other side effects have never been proven to occur from Latisse, to my knowledge."

PIPD: How long do the results last?
LK:
"Indefinitely, as long as it is used at least three times per week. If use is discontinued, lashes return to their pre-treated state in several weeks."

PIPD: Does this mean you don't have to use mascara ever again?
LK:
"If you are using mascara to lengthen, darken or thicken your lashes and you can achieve that with Latisse, then you won’t need mascara. But while everyone has lash lengthening, and many have thickening, not everyone has darkening. Mine, for example, are light brown and don’t show unless I wear mascara, even though they are very long now."

PIPD: Is there a memorable patient's reaction or story about someone who underwent the procedure that you could share?
LK:
"I have had several patients whose lashes got so long, the goggles we put over their eyes to protect them during laser treatments wouldn’t stay on. The lashes were literally pushing the goggles off their eyes!"


For more info on Latisse or Dr. Lorrie Klein, go to www.realself.com.

Sunday, September 19, 2010

fashion week: behind the scenes with fashion photog Dimitrios Kambouris

New York City native Dimitrios Kambouris is a self-taught photographer and has been repeatedly commissioned by publications and PR agencies to cover movie premieres, store openings, film festivals, concerts, runway and fashion events, among others. His photo of Madonna graced one of New York Magazine’s most notable covers of the 2009. This past week, he spent hours photographing celebs, models, designers and other notables--as well as some incredible clothes--at NY Fashion Week. Here, he shares his experiences with prettyisprettydoes...


PIPD: How did you get into the biz?

DIMITRIOS KAMBOURIS: "I worked in a camera store/one-hour photo lab while a student at Bryant High School in Astoria, Queens. I got hands advice from professional photographers, such as Dan Lecca, when they dropped off film."


PIPD: What do you love most about being a fashion photog?

DK: "I like going to events and parties. I go to document people having fun, wearing dresses, and that moment in their lives."


PIPD: What do you like least?

DK: "Long days."


PIPD: Name some of the people you photographed who were the most meaningful?

DK: Karl Lagerfeld, Valentino, Diane von Furstenberg and Oscar de la Renta


PIPD: What should the average person do to take a red carpet worthy photo?

DK: "Look great with a beautiful dress. Don’t wear black. Magazines love color."


PIPD: What are the biggest mistakes the average person makes when they are photographed?

DK: "Holding water bottles and invitations. And chewing gum."


Learn more about Dimitrios and see his amazing fashion week pics at www.gettyimages.com.


Tuesday, September 14, 2010

fashion week: fashion/jewelry expert Michael O'Connor gives us an insider view

During New York Fashion Week, we read about models strutting the runways, designers pulling it all together backstage and celebrity fans flitting about throughout the tents. Now jewelry expert and style guru Michael O’Connor tells us what we can look forward to for the upcoming fashion season. Here, his take on the New York Spring 2011 runway shows.


Prettyisprettydoes: Are you excited about FW's move to Lincoln Center? What do you look forward to in the new venue?

Michael O'Connor: "I think it will be a great move for Fashion Week. I’m looking forward to all the new space for mingling in the lobby, as well as some new formats."


PIPD: Which shows are you looking forward to seeing? Which celebs do you want to work with?

MO: "There are so many shows, but some of my favorites are Derek Lam, Dennis Basso and Venexiana. I’ve worked with many celebrities over the years - from many of the cast of Desperate Housewives to The Office to True Blood--as well as various actresses from Brittany Murphy to Jane Kaczmeryck, among others."


PIPD: Which shows will you be working on this season?

MO: "So far, I’ll be working on the Emmy’s (just finished), the Golden Globes, Academy Awards and thinking about a few more since I seem to be getting requests."


PIPD: Give us a hint of jewelry trends for Spring 2011. What are your favorite pieces?

MO: "Some of the jewelry trends that I’m seeing happen are:

1. Bigger and Bolder pieces. We saw large bib necklaces of Heidi Klum and several actresses at the Emmy’s. Big Bracelets too such as Kim Kardashian’s. Larger earrings were worn by almost everyone at the Emmy’s. Overall, pieces are getting larger in size.

2. Color is a huge trend, both on the fashion runways and in the jewelry design houses. Colored gemstones are being used to compliment all the color we’re seeing in fashion. Additionally, the use of colored gemstones is allowing for larger pieces, since much of the color is available in a variety of semi-precious gemstones that don’t cost an arm and a leg.

3. Modern materials and metals are another huge trend. Jewelry designers are letting their imaginations go and incorporating newer metals with great finishes, such as blackened rhodium, to enhance the gemstones. Metals like titanium are being used for larger pieces in order to keep them light. Additionally, leather, wood, rubber, glass and other “non-precious” materials are being used to add interest, color and modernity to designs."


PIPD: Is there one really unique jewelry trend that will come out of these shows? How will it translate to the mainstream?

MO: The three huge trends I mentioned above will translate into different ways that will bring them mainstream. The larger looks will be accomplished in a mainstream manner by the use of larger semi-precious gems and precious gemstone slices that allow for large surfaces. Additionally, the use of non-precious elements and silver will allow designers to create pieces at some very attractive price points. Also there has been a trend toward layering in both clothing and jewelry. For jewelry, that means that people will be able to collect smaller pieces over time (such as bracelets or necklaces) and then simply layer them together to create larger, more important looks."


PIPD: Do you have any advice for fashionistas with tight budgets? What are the five must-haves to buy this season that won't cause a financial meltdown?

MO: "For fashionistas on a budget, I suggest concentrating on five great pieces that will definitely get noticed. For example, a great pair of shoe-booties (peep toe or not), a great pair of sunglasses, an amazing pair of slacks that give you great lines, a tailored (but not over the top) jacket that you’ll be able to mix and match, as well as a great high-end watch. From there you can mix in many lower cost items for color and style while keeping the emphasis on the better pieces."


PIPD: Do you have any advice for first-timer attendees at the shows?

MO: "Choose to see designers that design for your body type. Don’t take every look that you see “literally” - that leads to a “costumey” look. Think about how you would incorporate these looks into your own style."

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

fashion's night out: first dog event



Fashion goes to the dogs. But it's a good thing! This year, Fashion's Night Out focuses on a huge number of amazing fashion events--including one for your favorite pooches! On Friday, September 10th from 7-10 PM, you can shop for the latest canine fashion, dog carriers, accessories and spa and grooming services at THE DOG STORE (170 East 61st Street, New York, NY 10065; 212-317-5982). Hosted by Edward Alava, it promises to be an amazing event. The best part: Proceeds will benefit Frankie’s Friends, an organization that provides money to New Yorkers who cannot afford medical care for their pets. Sponsored by NYC and The Hamptons Veterinarian Dr. Cindy Bressler, Isle of Capri Restaurant, FUR by J Mikel, Best Pet Rx, Canine Celebrations, and Throw Me a Bone NYC. For more info on Fashion's Night Out events, go to www.fashionsnightout.com.

give yourself a LashGASM and win $500!


Go ahead--pile on the mascara! When it comes to lashes, the bigger the better! Too Faced is daring you to give yourself a LashGASM and post it for all to see using your signature style. Jerrod Blandino, Founder and Creative Director of Too Faced will select the winners based on the use of Too Faced’s LashGASM and other Too Faced products, creativity and individuality. So go pick up this voluptuous, fluffing mascara and show your style!

If getting gorgeous lashes isn't enough, check out these other pretty great reasons to try LashGASM. The grand prize winner will receive $500.00 e-gift card for toofaced.com AND a personal makeup consultation with Jerrod. Three runner-ups will receive a $250 e-gift card for toofaced.com PLUS the first 200 people to enter will receive a FREE full-size Too Faced LashGASM at a value of $21.00.

To enter to win all of these FABULOUS prizes, go to www.toofaced.com, create an eye look that will inspire others, upload your photo, and submit your entry! The winner will be announced on September 16th, now is your time to show your sexy style!

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Fashion's Night Out: Get the Benefit


If anyone knows how to steal the spotlight, it's Benefit. Join Benefit for NYC’s most exclusive backstage beauty event… Fashion’s Night Out at Sephora Times Square. Benefit co-founders Jean & Jane Ford will be ruling the makeup catwalk and unveiling tips and tricks to turn your look from everyday to the runway, along with prizes, music and much more. Get complimentary runway makeup lessons, a free backstage beauty tote, beauty raffle prizes and deluxe beauty samples. Reserve your spot now by calling 212.944.6789. Go to www.fashionsnightout.com for a list of exciting events and more info.

Friday, September 3, 2010

Fashion's Night Out: Meet Jade Jagger


In celebration of Shalimar's 85th anniversary, Guerlain has partnered with
renown designer Jade Jagger to create a new bottle for Shalimar Eau de
Parfum. An icon of rock and roll royalty, Jade is an inveterate
globetrotter who personifies modern glamour. Her design work has spanned
jewelry, furniture and interiors and now she brings her inimitable style to
Guerlain's iconic fragrance. And if you head over to Saks Fifth Avenue on Fashion's Night Out, you can meet the style icon and have her sign your Shalimar Eau de Parfum bottle.

When: September 10th, 2010 - 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Where: Saks Fifth Avenue

If you can't make it to New York City on September 10th, call 212.940.4031 to pre-order your signed bottle now!

*Signature is complimentary with purchase of Shalimar Eau de Parfum

As another exclusive offer at Saks Fifth Avenue for Fashion's Night Out, Guerlain will have twenty limited edition Shalimar Parfum bottles, designed by Jade Jagger. These 20ml Shalimar Parfums will retail for $1,500
and are part of a collection of only 182 pieces in existence worldwide, representing the 182nd anniversary of the Maison Guerlain. Jade has decorated these bottles with a majestic sapphire on the neck of the bottle,
a jewel set in gold and discreetly engraved with the "G" of the Maison Guerlain. The sapphire is set on a black and gold silk cord, which was tied and sealed by hand by the Guerlain "ladies of the table" and can be detached and worn as a pendant. Fashion's Night Out could be the only chance to purchase this limited edition parfum bottle in the U.S.!

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Fashion's Night Out: Josie Maran at Sephora

While Fashion's Night Out was such a huge success last year, this year promises to be even better. Now beauty companies are joining in the celebrations. This year, Josie Maran is flying to the East Coast to participate in the festivities at the Sephora 5th Avenue boutique. From 7-9 PM Josie Maran, former supermodel and founder of Josie Maran Cosmetics, will be hosting her own in-store photo shoot, giving consumers mini-makeovers and pointers on how to pose like a pro before they step in front of the camera. You'll get the chance to experience her wonderful line of pure, natural cosmetics and enter the mini photo studio, where you can take a picture and walk away with a signed copy of your best shot with Josie. The first 100 consumers who make a purchase that evening will receive a limited edition, created specifically for FNO, Argan Oil Color Stick in Cherry Popsicle. Be one of the first to try this amazing new item as the Argan Oil Color Stick doesn’t officially launch until 2011. If that's not a beauty coup, I don't know what is. For more info on Fashion's night out, go to www.fashionsnightout.com.

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Fashion's Night Out: at C.O. Bigelow Apothecary


New York Fashion Week is just around the corner! Kick off the week at Fashion’s Night Out on September 10, 2010 at the C.O. Bigelow Apothecary store from 6-10 pm.

The downtown landmark Apothecary store, located at 414 6th Avenue, is a neighborhood favorite to New Yorkers and celebrities alike and will have specials during the event from some of their top-selling brands. Vinny Guadagnino of MTV’s hit show The Jersey Shore will be at the store from 7pm to 8pm to meet and greet with C.O. Bigelow consumers. He will also showcase his essential grooming products and favorite beauty products for the ladies in his life that are all sold at C.O. Bigelow. Bring your cameras!

Learn how to boost body confidence and feel great in your skin with the experts from Mama Mio Skincare. Mama Mio will be serving complimentary mocktails while sampling its Get Waisted Body Shaper to reduce fat cells, tighten and firm tummy flab. Come on girls! Let's Get Waisted!

In addition to body treats and beverages, C.O. Bigelow will also have a makeup artist from Jane Iredale giving consultations and tips to stay fresh-faced all week long, a manicurist from Barielle for a quick polish change and a skincare specialist with Rilastil sampling the latest eye cream. Additionally, Soap & Paper will be giving away a free shea butter soap with any purchase in the store!


For more info on Fashion's Night Out, go to www.fashionsnightout.com.

Monday, August 30, 2010

Fashion Night Out: With Korres


WHO: Korres Natural Products

WHEN: Friday, September 10, 2010 – 6:00pm – 11:00pm

WHAT: Head to the Korres store in SoHo on Friday, September 10th for an evening of cocktails, cupcakes and makeovers. The event will feature ‘Detox Bubbles, Cupcakes & More’ for guests to enjoy as they help VOGUE magazine celebrate a night of fashion. The stores will include a detox bar serving complimentary antioxidant-infused cocktails based on the Greek skincare brand’s natural ingredients – Wild Rose, Pomegranate, Thyme Honey & Raspberry – along with delicious cupcakes also ‘packed’ with natural ingredients. Attendees can detox on the outside as well with a complimentary Korres makeover or advice on how to wear VOGUE’s hottest color looks of the season using 'green' make-up. All guests will receive a product samples including global bestsellers.

WHERE: KORRES / 110 Wooster Str. [btw Prince & Spring, SoHo, NY]

RSVP: Korres Store 212-219-0683 or Woosterstreet@korresusa.com

WHY: In a global initiative to promote retail, restore consumer confidence, and celebrate fashion, U.S. and international editions of Vogue are coordinating evening extravaganzas in their respective world fashion capitals. The first evening of New York Fashion Week, Fashion's Night Out will encompass an array of festivities.

For more info on Fashion's Night Out, go to www.fashionsnightout.com.

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Fashion's Night Out: Get Beautiful



Who: Warren-Tricomi Salon
Location: The Plaza Hotel (New York City)
Join the Warren-Tricomi Salon at The Plaza Hotel for complimentary hair styles and updo’s to start your Friday night off from 6-8pm. While you are at The Plaza, you can also join us in viewing the CFDA Incubator Project designs throughout the Shops. Musician, Corinne Bailey Rae, will be performing an intimate concert at The Plaza’s Palm Court. Following the concert, Joel Warren, Edward Tricomi, Douglas Hannant and Frederick Anderson, co-hosted with the CFDA and Shops at the Plaza, invite you to an after party in the Terrace Room from 9 – 11pm to celebrate this night of Fashion.

Who: The Plaza Beauty
Location: The Plaza Hotel (New York City)
The Plaza Beauty will offer complimentary mini-facials, hand treatments and makeup touch ups to get you ready for your Friday night out! Meet the creators of top beauty companies such as Alison Raffaele and Kimiko and receive insider tips on how to create the perfect look for fall! Enter to win a custom-made hair accessory from Lucia Tristao Hair Designs and look out for exclusive offers that night from Miriam Mirani and Diego Della Palma. Afterwards, show off your new look at a concert performed by Grammy nominated EMI artist Corinne Bailey Rae hosted in The Palm Court at the Plaza Hotel

Who: Pur Minerals
Location: Duane Reade The Look Boutique (Soho) (233 Lafayette St. New York, NY)
Join celebrity makeup artist to the stars, Jackie Gomez, for complimentary makeup touch ups from 6:00pm – 8:00pm with Pur Minerals. Gifts with purchase will also be available throughout the night from 6pm-11pm.

Who: Completely Bare
Location: Completely Bare (25 Bond Street, b/w Lafayette & Bowery New York, NY)
CONNECT THE Dots!! This Fashion’s Night Out, participate in a scavenger hunt-themed styling contest in multiple Soho New York-based locations called “Dots SPOTS.” Follow the clues and choose your favorite Dots pieces to create your own personalized look! Meet back at Completely Bare and get a free Richie Rich vatoo, enjoy refreshments and have your photos taken on the pink carpet.
Celebrity stylist Mia Morgan and fashion legend Richie Rich will co-host and judge your personalized looks! Winning looks will have a day of beauty and styling with Mia Morgan, a new Dots wardrobe and a trip for two to a tropical location! Proceeds to benefit the Family Justice Center, which helps victims of domestic violence put their lives back together. Follow @Dotsfashions, @completelybare @kingcollective on FB & Twitter for more details. Stay fashionable!

For more Fashion's Night Out info and listings of events, go to http://www.fashionsnightout.com/.