Clinique's Black Tie Violets Holiday Collection

There are some gorgeous new and re-introduced colors in Clinique's Black Tie Violets Holiday 2009 Collection. The Shimmering Stripes Powder Blusher in Tuxedo Plums ($29.50) grabbed my attention when I saw the new display at Saks. There's something about multi-colored blushers I really like. Maybe it's the complex color they impart when the colors are mixed or the choice of the darker or lighter side, depending on the look I'd like to achieve. There is also a limited-edition Powder Brush ($30) that is perfect for applying this beauty.

The Colour Surge Eye Shadow Quad ($25) in Black Tie Violets spans the full range of violet shades, from pink to deep plum. While I can't wear these shades, Loyd Cassler suggested they would be gorgeous on women with dark skin.

The collection features two lip colors, and one of them, A Different Grape ($14), is one of my all-time favorites. There are three Full Potential Lips Plum & Shine Glosses ($17.50). The colors featured are the limited-edition Bloomberry, Double Plum, and Luscious Lilac. I was "shopping for charity," so naturally I bought two!

The display also features Starry Plum Cream Shaper for Eyes ($14.50) and other items to complete your plummy look.

While you are Clinique shopping, make sure to check out all of the value and gift sets available. The Black Tie Violet items are in store at Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom and should be available at Clinique.com and other department stores very soon, if they aren't already.

Photos courtesy of Nordstrom