I was surprised - Tysons is usually a mob scene - but delighted that there was an elegant calm conducive to selective shopping. I hung around for awhile with my friends at Chantecaille, fragrance, and Le Métier de Beauté, and then I had a Le Métier de Beauté facial before dragging myself home. Lying down for 45 minutes was a real treat, which is why I had to drag myself home. Janice Valitutti treated me with the new CHEM60 Pro-Peel & Glow10ai Mask, along with a hand and arm massage, and I could have melted into that massage table.
Ivanka Trump, the fragrance, was created by perfumers Jennifer Mullarkey and Maypierre Julien (who composes fragrances for the house of Givaudan). "The floral-oriental composition has a touch of luminous fruity notes and flirtatious spices making the whole fragrant story even more exciting. Top notes incorporate luminous Italian bergamot, juicy apple, and pink pepper, which highlight sensuality. The heart encompasses jasmine, rose, and peach, while the base closes with golden amber, creamy vanilla, patchouli, and cedar." To me, it sounds like a conventional designer fragrance - not the luxury, original composition I would have expected from her. If you've seen her jewelry, you'll understand.
Chanel released a statement to say, “Peter Philips...has brought his talent, creativity, and vision to Chanel makeup and made women dream, the world over. After five successful years, Peter Philips has decided to return to a more independent position, continuing his work as an artist collaborating with the best photographers, stylists, and models for editorials and projects such as Chanel fashion shows.
“The Chanel Makeup Studio, which has supported him during his tenure, will ensure the continuity, the creativity, and the quality of the Brand's makeup products and collections. Peter Philips has left an indelible mark on Chanel Makeup and his contribution to the Brand is an important part of the Chanel legacy. He will remain a cherished friend and contributor to the House of Chanel."
Vogue UK articulated his impact well. "After five years of coming up with some of the beauty world's favorite nail polish colors (Jade, Particuliere, and Mimosa were all the creations of this wonderful mind), formulating some truly one-of a kind products (grey blush [Notorius], anyone?), and coming up with some of Chanel's most fabulous catwalk makeup looks, Philips is swapping his official title for a contributing artist role...We look forward to seeing what the truly talented Philips does next - as well as eagerly anticipating his fabulously imaginative Chanel catwalk creations as always." We certainly will!
It's time for the Friday Forum. I love this part of our week. Did you take advantage of the beauty event offers at Neiman Marcus or Saks? What new products did you discover this week? Did you find any deals you couldn't resist? Are you using a fabulous product and want to sing its praises? Did you find a beauty product disappointing? Do you have a question others might be able to answer? Want to talk about skin care? What's new in your life? Just use the comments. Don't be shy. Just make sure to ask any question you might have over the weekend. By early the next week, most (not all) readers will have moved on.
Don't forget this week's giveaway contest for Tarte's beautiful Carried Away With Tarte Collection. The deadline is tomorrow, Saturday, February 23, so enter now before you forget.
Photo at top by Best Things in Beauty; other photos courtesy of WWD and Vogue UK
MAybe I already told you, but I bought Aerin Freesia thanks to you, and it's such a beautiful and refined product!!! Thank you Charleston Girl! HAve an excellent week end!
ReplyDeleteSuper, Virginie,
ReplyDeleteI purchased the pink one, Sweet Pea, yesterday. Much prettier in person than it is on EL.com.
I attribute the lower turnout for beauty event to the economy. Things are at an absolute standstill. People are down, sad, depressed, because nothing changes for the better. There is plenty of political bickering and a continued inability or unwillingness to listen to the people. But no one man or person can change that; neither Obama nor Romney nor anyone else. It has to come from the populace and it will happen at some point.
ReplyDeletedo they have a Chanel gift with purchase at Neiman?
ReplyDeleteGood morning everyone :-) I received my LMdB palette yesterday and am ever so pleased with it. It is nothing like the colorful confection of brights that Bobbi Brown put out in 2009. LMdB's well-edited selection of colors is much more sophisticated and elegant. A friend had e-mailed me the face charts which I promptly printed out and so, when my palette arrived, I was ready to dive right in and have some fun. The charts are just a starting point; however. Be inventive, be brave. You're not going to end up looking like a "tweeny" playing at Sephora--unless that's how you want to look! LOL
ReplyDeleteI'm really loving my Tom Ford Shine lipsticks. I bought the three that Charlestongirl had reviewed here and love them all. They glide on and feel so smooth, satiny, and light on my lips. I also like how easy it is to build the color without my lips feeling like they're slathered in goo. They're a perfect summertime choice.
I also picked up the Armani "Shimmer" palette in #11 (taupes) and am thrilled that the shimmer is soft and refined and that there are the two satin shades to help anchor the overall look. It's a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile set of neutrals that lean cool. I took a look at #10, but gave it a miss. It was too reminiscent of my Armani Bronze Heat quad from 2011. For anyone who doesn't have that one, though, check out #10. It is beyond gorgeous!
I must say that I wasn't particularly surprised to learn that Peter Philips was leaving Chanel after five years. I'm sure that it was a wonderful opportunity for him, but one that could be a bit stifling at times. There was also undoubtedly a lot of pressure to come up with new looks and products as Chanel started launching a million and one mini-collections: needing a look for this, a look for that; needing a commemorative edition here, a commemorative edition there, etc. Sometimes it is good to step back and take it all in before moving forward again. I'm sure this artistic and creative man won't be wanting for work!
Happy weekend, everyone :-)
I wonder if the lower turn out in the DC metro area is attributable to the looming sequester. Even those who don't work for the federal government will be affected however short it will be in place.
ReplyDelete"However short a time," I meant to say.
ReplyDeleteLike Eileen I am super happy with the LMdB palette and the Tom Ford lip shines. There are so many possibilities with the palette! I bought the lip shines in Nubile and Frolic and could not be happier. It feels great on my lips and leaves a nice sheer wash of color. I did not have any luck with the new NARS finishing powder but love the Spring nail polish in Disco Inferno. I had more success with the Hourglass ambient powder in luminous. It gives good glow. I'm looking forward to playing with these a little more when they are in store.
ReplyDeleteHave a nice weekend, everyone!
I have a question on the Aerin Freesia. Is it a true peach and is the sheen sparkly or just sheer? How much color does it add to the cheeks? Just wondering if this is a wash of color or is it really a cream blush with good pigmentation?
ReplyDeleteThanks so much!!!
Joanne
Hi everyone, long day for me. Finally sitting back down at the computer.
ReplyDeleteNemo, you could be absolutely right. I'll find out tomorrow when I go to the Tysons store.
Anonymous,
ReplyDeleteHere is the link with all the GWPs.
http://www.neimanmarcus.com/category.jsp?itemId=cat2980731#endecaDrivenSiloRefinements=itemId%3Dcat2980731&refinements=&page=2&pageSize=30&sort=&definitionPath=/nm/commerce/pagedef/template/EndecaDrivenBeauty
Hi Eileen,
ReplyDeleteI caved and purchased a fourth Tom Ford Shine. I hope to get photos this weekend.
I did learn that those who don't purchase the LMdB palette at NM will have a chance later at Nordstrom.
From what I hear, Peter Philips himself may not have been designing the makeup. Time will tell, huh?
Ava, I think it's affecting almost everyone in some way. Don't even get me going on Congress.
ReplyDeleteHi Jo,
ReplyDeleteMy luck with NARS is 50-50. I am becoming less and less willing to purchase NARS without trying it first.
Joanne,
ReplyDeleteI think it's a wash of color with a sheen, not sparkle. I wouldn't say it's exactly like a peach cream blush. I love the finish so much I bought Sweet Pea yesterday.
Hi, everyone. I've been enjoying my By Terry Rouge Terrybly lipstick in 'Flirty Rosy' and my Sheer Rouge in 'Dare to Bare' (thanks for your swatch of the latter, CG). I am glad that I like the Rouge Terrybly formula as much as I do. For the price point, it didn't fail to deliver or impress. These two shades work wonderfully for me as everyday lipsticks, and I love how they moisturize without feeling heavy or too slick.
ReplyDeleteI have also been enjoying the Chanel CC Cream (courtesy of eBay) for the last few weeks. I've never tried a BB before, so this was my introduction to that niche in the beauty market. I have to say, so far, so good, although the coverage isn't quite medium, so I always apply concealer on top to cover any imperfections. It's a shame, too, that this cream only comes in 20 Beige. It would be better for me if I didn't live in a sunny climate, where my skin doesn't quite reach N20 in the winter. I'm glad I bought it, but doubt I'll be repurchasing when and if it arrives Stateside.
Happy weekend, ladies!
Hi CG and everyone! My NM was busy but not crazy buzy today when I went by to pick up my pre-sell. The SA assured me they would be crazy tomorrow though. Perhaps she is right. I may go back as I am not quite bankrupt yet! I got a Tom Ford lipstick in Flamingo and I love it. Also, VenEffect lip treatment and had to have a fragrance so I left with MFK Amryis Femme. My gifts were good, several perfume samples and some Kiehls, Fresh and Oribe. I'm going back next week for a VenEffect event. I am looking forward to learning more about this line. Happy shopping and lovely weekend to all!
ReplyDeleteI purchased the new Clarins double serum this week and received a sample of 4 lip colours that are to die for. I like 2 of the colours but it is the formulation is really something wonderful. It feels great and so silky, esp important as I have trouble with many lipsticks. I cant wait to get the chance to buy a couple, not in my area. They are called Rouge Eclat Satin Finish Age Defying Lipstick. Claims to make skin younger looking with use. I think its new or at least a reformulation, anyway I cant wait to get some, samples are disappearing. Also the new dual serum is great has both oil and water based housed together and apparently giving you the best of both. I do find Clarins skincare to be excellent.
ReplyDeleteHi Charlestongirl; Hi Jo,
ReplyDeleteI think those Tom Ford Shines are positively addictive. When I was at Neiman's, I fell hard for Ravenous. It's a beautiful translucent cerise. I think it will look particularly lovely with my Guerlain spring items. Unfortunately, they had sold out (they had only received a couple), but the SA is having it sent out to me so I should have it in a few days.
Speaking of Tom Ford, have you seen his summer collection? Sneak peaks are beginning to emerge. You can see it at fulltimeford.com, 2/16/13. It's a glorious collection of pearlescent peachy pink, soft golden pink, and nude. It's a stunner! I better start saving :-)
I'm beginning to think the three of us are clones! LOL. I didn't care for the NARS powder, either. It felt OK going on, but the light diffusing properties of the powder seemed to create a white, flat surface which obscured the natural dimensions of the face--especially in flash photography. I love a contoured face so why would I want to use a product that cancelled that out? Rhetorical question, of course. Bottom line: There are plenty of soft-focus finishing powders of far better quality that are already on the market. I really don't understand some of the raves I've read, especially since the accompanying pictures clearly showed the moon-face effect. Oh well, to each his own.
Happy weekend to you both and to all you beautiful readers.
Eileen, as I looked at that the first time, I think I was drooling. I won't be able to live happily without Fire Dust.
ReplyDeleteYes, indeed, Charlestongirl Fire Dust, Pink Lust, Pink Haze . . . As I said, I better start saving my money. As soon as I saw his sunset palette of colors, I thought of your rose gold addiction :-)
ReplyDeleteI got the Tom Ford Lip Shine in Ravenous - love it! I will definitely have to get at least one more...but I'm not sure which!
ReplyDeleteQuick question on the actual NM tote bag. Would you say it's big enough to possibly fit a 15'' laptop?
ReplyDeleteand Eileen, if you have one (or a few) soft focus mattifying powders you prefer, I'd love to hear about them. I was gonna get the Nars one without trying but you're making me hesitant about it.
I don't think I raved enough about the chit-chat posts on your blog CG but I find them immensely interesting and helpful in so many ways.
HI Walls, my Chanel friends told me about CC cream. I want to try it, but hope it's not too dark for me.
ReplyDeleteHi Anne,
ReplyDeleteI am heading over the NM at Tysons soon. I hope it's not mobbed. I'll report back.
That VENEffect is fab stuff! And Amryis? Bought it, love it.
Hi angusmum1,
ReplyDeleteI skipped over those satin lipsticks because I'm a shine gal. Now I will give them some attention. Thanks!
Clarins skin care is excellent. I drifted away from it, but it never lost its place in my heart.
Yep, Eileen, I am going to need a part-time job to pay for my addictions.
ReplyDeleteThat's such a hard choice, Bisbee. TF hit it out of the park with these!
ReplyDeleteThanks, AZ. Definitely YES to the size of the bag. Plus it has outer pockets for Totes umbrellas!
ReplyDeleteWho have I missed? I was REALLY busy yesterday. Had an epidural and came home and sat on ice, as directed. Then I realized I had to go to Petco because I was out of Charlie's before-bed snacks.
ReplyDeleteI had a late-day burst of energy and shopped online. There is a discount code for NEST's lower-priced line of candles and soaps, and I bought a few. I hear the line, made for discount stores, is likely to be discontinued, and I wanted a few at 30% off. You can get the codes for the discounts and free shipping (use both) at the NEST Facebook site.
Hi AZ,
ReplyDeleteThere are so many excellent powders that are really transformative. Where do I begin? Chantecaille Loose Powder, Chanetcaille HD Powder (no white cast even in flash photography), Chanel Poudre Universelle Libre (a classic) and Guerlain Voyage (although a bit more radiant) are just a few of the soft-focus powders that make the skin look velvety without looking lifeless.
I was given a sample of the NARS powder to try. The problem I see with it is that it is basically a version of MUF's HD Powder. It is white and has a crystalline structure which bounces light. Even when applied lightly and evenly, in flash photography there is a white caste that is apparent in the finished picture. A good example can be seen at Café Makeup. Check out the post on NARS Light Reflecting Pressed Powder.(Jan. 24) There's a side-by-side of Liz where you can easily see the white glow. I think it is ironic that NARS says the powder doesn't give that chalky or washed out look :-(
Cosmetics are ultimately a matter of personal esthetics and I'm sure there are as many different opinions as there are women who wear them. Chacun à son goût.
Eileen and AZ, what's really interesting is that By Terry managed to do it. A white powder that doesn't leave that dread white mask, such as the one some dufus MUA sent Nicole Kidman wearing out onto the red carpet.
ReplyDeleteI'll try to get it reviewed this week. AZ, Eileen's suggestions are top notch!
Hi Charlestongirl,
ReplyDeleteI'm really looking forward to your review of the By Terry powder. I tried ordering it when I had a 25% off coupon at BeautyBar, but they were sold out; so I was "forced" to order a few other things instaed. By Terry? 25% off? It was a no-brainer! :-)
Eileen, thank you for your detailed response to AZ's query. I've been curious about the new Hourglass Ambient Powder in Diffused. Do you have any thoughts on that one?
ReplyDelete