republic of us

I can't remember the last time I wore fragrance. Maybe it's because so many of the other products I use have their own fragrances so applying perfume doesn't seem necessary. Or maybe it's because these days I'm lucky if I get to shower in the morning let alone dab on some edt. But when I heard Banana Republic was debuting a new pair of fragrances called Republic of Us, I was intrigued.

Republic of Women and Republic of Men, two unique scents designed to complement each other, debuted this fall. The concept behind them is to capture our own unique individuality and bring out the strong connection we have with ourselves, with others and with the world.

Playful and romantic, innocent and alluring, the Republic Of Women features notes of Cassis buds, juicy Lychee, Moroccan Rose, Jasmine, and precious woods (EDP $48). Modern and authentic, the Republic Of Men features notes of sparkling Clementine, wet Plum, freshly-cut Hazelnut, Basil, and Cedarwood (EDT $45).

Just a dab of Republic of Women on my inner wrists is a great accessory. The scent is elegant but subtle, a huge plus for non-fragrance wearers. It's alluring but soft with a sophisticated edge. I only got to try a sample--it comes in a miniature bottle that is totally adorable!. But this holiday season, you can experience The Republic of Us Collection ($49) as part of Banana Republic's holiday gift sets.

The women's gift set features a 50 ml eau de parfum and a 50 ml body cream while the men's gift set includes a 50 ml eau de parfum and a 50 ml body wash. It makes a great gift for others or even for yourself. So once your closet is fully stocked with cozy cardigans and pencil skirts, it's just one more reason to hit your local Banana Republic store.

help for dry skin: mayday! mayday!

Got dry, irritated, chapped or peeling skin? I do. I have been known to try every extra-emollient, ultra-rich skin cream out there in the hopes it works its magic on my rough elbows and knees. While some work better than others, I have always liked the texture of thick petroleum-based formulas more than those with a cream base. For some reason, they just feel more healing. That's one of the reasons why I love Ren Skincare's Mayday Mayday Rescue Balm with Bio Actives, which hit stores in April. Designed to deeply moisturize, soothe and strengthen dry skin with Omega 6 essential fatty acids and trigyceride-rich Shea Butter, it's great for really dry hands, elbows, knees and lips. It feels really soft when you smooth it on and absorbs quickly without feeling greasy. After just two uses, my knees felt much smoother. And I LOVE the fresh scent! I'm not sure what the ingredient is that's responsible (maybe the soothing chamomile and pink violet) but it makes you smell like you've just left the spa. It comes in a palm-size tube that fits easily in your hand (although I'm sure I'll need more very soon!) and is packaged in a simple white box with purple accents. And--not that this is a reason to buy a skincare product--I love the pretty graphic design on the inside cover. It's a nice surprise when you open the box! Get your dose of Bio Actives at Space.NK, Sephora, Blue MercuryBarney's, Fred Segal and www.RENSkincare.com.