Guerlain Spring Glow Collection 2016

I haven't seen the sun in well over a week. In the DC area, we are living in a warm cloud. Other parts of the country have had tragic weather. I think it's time to think spring, and one of my favorite brands, Guerlain, came through for me with photos of their spring collection. They lifted my spirits with dreams of beautiful new treats - and immediately my wishlist grew.

In 1987, Guerlain launched their Météorites: the first loose illuminating and color-correcting powder that came in the form of multicolored pearls. One stroke of the brush, and these pearls released a perfecting halo to bathe skin with light and glow with ideal radiance.

There is no mistaking the enviable radiance of a women’s skin when she looks well rested, healthy, and vibrant. She has that certain "je ne sais quoi." For spring, Guerlain will reveal the secret to her ethereal glow with a joyful, luminous, and colorful 2016 Spring Collection.

I haven't seen any of these products yet. They are due to launch in January. I'll be stalking the Guerlain counter! If I don't get a new job soon, I'll be shedding tears at the counter.

The Météorites Primer ($74.00) is an essential skin-perfecting primer and ultimate radiance booster. Météorites Primer reveals correcting and perfecting pearls of light in a fresh gel formula. Mattified and unified, the complexion will be beautifully enhanced before makeup application. Here is what Guerlain has to say about this primer.

• Highly concentrated pearls containing multicolored micro-shimmer particles amplify light reflection to create a luminous, color-corrective halo of light for the face.
• Absorbent powders neutralize excess sebum, while a special polymer helps to fade imperfections and smooth fine lines for a long-lasting matte and even complexion.
• Enriched with the Météorites signature Stardust technology that transforms invisible UV light into visible and soft-focus perfecting light to blur imperfections and provide exceptional radiance.

Météorites Voyage Powder Compact ($179.00), Guerlain’s most precious powder, features a universal shade comprised of five different micro-pearl colors to correct and illuminate all skin tones. These light, sheer powders bathe the skin in a veil of light, increasing radiance and luminosity. Hand-selected and weighed, the pearls are compressed to create a powder that perfectly fuses with the skin. Its ultimate color-corrective shimmer, enriched with pink and white pearls, directs light to enhance facial features. The Météorites signature Stardust technology transforms the invisible UV light into visible and soft-focus perfecting light to fade imperfections and illuminate the face. Who can resist this stunning new jewel-like silver case adorned with such detail and artistry? To apply, sweep the Météorites powder with a brush by tracing a letter “G” formation to highlight the contours of the face. Or use your fingers or a sponge for a heavier application where you want to glow.

Écrin 1 Colour Enjoy Long-Lasting Eye Shadow ($34) is a limited edition, and from the looks of it, it will also sell out quickly. Guerlain’s newest collector eye shadow is a stunning neutral buttercup yellow nestled in a metallic champagne case. It will be hard to resist. Worn solo or with a playful mix of color, your eyes will instantly be illuminated with a soft swipe of this irresistible shade. I think it will be one of your standby colors. Use it when you are in a hurry to open up your eyes, or use it as a base with other shades to create a customized look.

With Le Crayon Yeux Water Resistant Long-Lasting Khol Liner ($31), Guerlain redefines the typical eye pencil and introduces its first-ever all-in-one liner and khol pencil with a water-resistant and long-lasting formula. With minimal effort, this gentle, creamy-smooth eye pencil will glide on with a seamless application. Whether going for a dramatic look or something a bit more natural, this new pencil and blending tip create beautifully defined and contoured eyes in an instant. There are five new shades: #01 Black, #02 Brown, #03 Purple, #04 Navy Blue (steady my heart), and #05 Khaki.

Rose Aux Joules Smile Blush Duo ($62) will be a limited edition. You can accessorize your makeup bag or vanity with this perfect pairing of blush shades housed in a chic metallic red compact and beautifully engraved with “SMILE.” To apply, mix the two shades to color the cheeks, or create contrast by using the satiny red shade on the cheekbones, while enhancing the cheek bones with the delicate pink shade for a glowing effect. I predict this piece will also sell out quickly. Guerlain's entire holiday collection was gone in an instant. You will have to be on your toes when these pieces arrive at the counter.

KissKiss Lipstick ($37) is one of my favorites. Since its relaunch in 2014 (thank you, Guerlain!), KissKiss lipstick has quickly become a beauty essential for me and the little black dress in any woman's wardrobe. KissKiss will welcome spring in two alluring shades: Darling Baby (#371), a light and luminous pink; and All About Pink (#372), a light and lustrous fuchsia that will create a very desirable pout. I love it because it's so hydrating. Additionally, I am seeing a very pink trend for spring.

You will be able to find this collection beginning January 2016 at the Guerlain boutiques, as well as select in-store locations of Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s, Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Dillard’s, Sephora, Nordstrom, and online. Keep your eyes open!

Photos courtesy of Guerlain

Merry Christmas!

Every Christmas, I used to set up the nativity scene, arranging the characters perfectly. The wise men were arriving on their camels. The people and animals - along with the baby Jesus - were placed just so. As soon as I turned my back, a cat joined the scene. The figures were knocked over and spread from here to there, just so our little darling could be part of the action. It didn't matter which cat over the years; they all did it. Charlie doesn't get a Christmas tree. He's such a little devil, it would be tipped over in no time.

Christmas Eve, a day of anticipation, last-minute preparations, or both. It's almost as magical as Christmas Day. When I was growing up, we trimmed our Christmas tree on Christmas Eve. My father would wire the tree to hooks on the baseboard so that it wouldn't tip over (say, if a Charlie cat decided to climb it), and we would drag out the ornaments - antique and new - to turn it from a beautiful tree into a splendid one. With the Nativity scene, cat, and all the packages under the tree, it was the focus of our living room until New Year's Day. I have hung my wreath on the door in memory of our family tradition.

I had planned to feature new makeup over the last week, but we haven't seen the sun once. It is warm today, 70+ degrees, and destined to set a new record. However, it's cloudy and foggy. I have finished all preparations except for packaging gifts. I will start delivering them later today. Tomorrow, I will prepare the prime rib dinner requested by my mother.

I think my greatest wish this year is for "peace on Earth and goodwill toward all people and animals." Wouldn't it be a wonderful world if 2016 could go by without wars, murders, terrorism, cruelty, and starvation?

I wish you a wonderful Christmas or the holiday you are celebrating this year. I hope this season is kind to you and your loved ones!

Photos courtesy of merrychristmaswisheschristmaseve.com and nappavalleyregister.com

NEST Fragrances Holiday Gifts

Last week, I had the privilege of meeting Laura Slatkin, founder and executive chairman of NEST Fragrances. NEST Fragrances is a luxury lifestyle brand, offering a full range of fragranced products for the body, bath, and home. NEST is well known for its beautiful fragrances, high-quality ingredients, and exceptionally beautiful packaging. The photo above shows Laura with the members of her team who accompanied her to Saks Fifth Avenue, Chevy Chase, Maryland. That's Laura in the middle above, Doreen LaSala on the left, and Wil Galvez on the right. I am sorry my photo is dark. I've found it difficult to get shadow-free photos in that store.

The holiday display (above) shows several of NEST's holiday specials. The red and gold velvet box is as gorgeous as the Classic Candle, scented with pomegranate, Mandarin orange, pine, cloves, and cinnamon with a hint of vanilla and amber. Birchwood Pine graces the top row. It will fragrance your room with the aroma of a majestic winter forest, created by a blend of white pine, fir balsam, and birchwood over a base of rich musk and amber. Hearth, shown below the Classic Candle, is woody. It combines rich oud wood with frankincense and hints of smoky embers. I have a friend in the beauty industry who has already purchased Hearth. He loves it!

All of these fragrances are available not only in candles, but also in diffusers. Check out the NEST Holiday Boutique for more information. NEST products can also be purchased at Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus. You will be surprised that NEST's beautiful scented candles, diffusers, soaps, and other offerings are very reasonably priced for luxury products.

There were several other large displays of NEST's elegant products spaced around the room. My favorite was the flower arrangement above. The photo shows me with Laura. I wish I had thought to take off my sunglasses before Wil took this picture using my camera.

The photo above shows the liquid hand soaps with a pump top that I can't live without. I have one at every sink in my house. I purchased a holiday special set of liquid hand soaps at a great price. I needed them!

I've met many industry people during my years of blogging. I want you to know that Laura Slatkin is one of the most gracious women I have ever met. She took time to sit with me and talk - not only about her company, but also our parents and our experiences as they aged. Talking with her was like talking to a best friend, and we had just met. She is absolutely lovely in every respect.

I asked her about spring. What will be introduced? One fragrance called Corsica sounds like a must-have. Imagine a blend of figs with other Mediterranean scents. Heavenly! NEST's first four-wick candle presented in a porcelain-like oblong container can be used on the dinner table even after the candle has reached the end of its life. Just fill the container with flowers, and you will have an instant centerpiece. I am ready for spring - even though we are having spring weather this week.

A NEST purchase will make a lovely Christmas gift or hostess gift. Or you could treat yourself. The friends to whom I have given NEST's products were thrilled.

I want to thank Wil for inviting me to this cozy gathering. I had much fun with the NEST Fragrances team that night. They made me feel at home.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Why Did I Disappear Again?

No picture needed for this post. I started blogging again in October after I had recovered fully from my right knee replacement (that was two major surgeries in one year). I had been looking for a new job/consulting work - and I'm still looking. That is time-consuming. Then, a series of things happened.

• I had new knee problems. One was diagnosed as a pulled tendon below my knee, no doubt from lifting heavy things.
• My mother was hospitalized for eight days, and she is still ill. I try to see her every day. The CT scans showed multiple things wrong with her - one really serious that I don't want to talk about. I took her to a urologist last week in hopes of curing a lasting UTI. He is very good and put her on a new medication today. Cipro was not working. The culture told him why.
• I've been holding off on spinal epidurals, waiting for my favorite interventional radiolgist to return from heart surgery. My stenosis is painful!
• Miscellaneous events that took over my spare time. such as the moronic woman driving an SUV who ran into my car while I was pumping gas. I suspect everyone knows how time consuming it is to get an estimate, arrange with her insurance company to pay all damages, get and return a rental car - all things I didn't need in the last month.
• Without a job, I've been on a makeup diet.

Unfortunately, as much as I love blogging, I had to put it aside until this weekend. In the last few days, I have spent retirement money on some new things, and I have had to take photos using store testers (in inadequate light). I can't buy everything I want without a job, and I'm reluctant to feature older things - although I might as long as you can still buy them. I think there is nothing worse than featuring a lovely product with the snide, "but you can't buy it" that other bloggers post.

Since I decided to start blogging again this week, I got an "unsubscribe notice" that said the reader was dropping my infrequent posts because I didn't post often enough. That was a low blow. If she had known my circumstances, she might have checked "no longer relevant" and spare me the silent lecture.

Anyhow, my willpower is back, and I plan to start showing you new features. The next one will be about NEST Fragrances - probably tonight - and I'll jump to Rouge Bunny Rouge from there. I feel I owe other companies for sending me gratis products to try during my recuperations. I love some of the products, and the PR people have been so good to me.

So, in a nutshell, there you have it. You know why I started blogging again in October and abruptly stopped. I'm currently committed to make time for this blog, and I hope all my medical drama will end soon. Oh, and I need a new job. Anyone want to hire me? [She says with a big smile.]

Chanel Spring 2016 Beauty Collection - Part 1

Part of Chanel's 2016 makeup collection has arrived at Neiman Marcus. The eye shadow quad will not arrive until January, I'm told. You can see it here.

As you can see above, there is plenty to keep you occupied for now. The dazzling blush appears to be the centerpiece of the collection this month. There are three sheer lipsticks that drew my eyes immediately. I love, love, love Chanel's sheers!

I swatched the blush and three Rouge Coco Shine lip colors. The light outside was not ideal. The sun was struggling to emerge from behind the clouds. So my photos are not sharp (and really don't please me). I'm sorry, but since it's Christmas shopping season, I can't go back today. I might get crushed.

The sheer lip colors are shown above. Mighty, #116, is shown at the top of my arm. It's a pastel pink that leans blue-pink. The pretty coral Shipshape, #114, is shown in the middle, with the beautiful rose Energy, #118, shown at the bottom. I love them all, but have a preference for Shipshape and Energy because they are more pigmented or more colorful.

The blush, Sunkiss Ribbon, has a snazzy pattern (see above). I blended all of the colors together for my swatch, and a pretty peach resulted. The nice thing about the pattern is that you can easily choose to use the different shades alone or in combination for different color effects.

There is more in this collection for spring, and I will feature the rest of the items - most likely in January. All in all, I think it's a beautiful collection that will have something in it for each of us to think spring during the winter.

I apologize for my photos. They show what clouds will do, no matter how bright it is outside. I used them only to give you this quick look at the blossoming of a gorgeous spring collection.

If you need to order by phone, you can call Nicki at Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie at (202) 966-9700 or Rahman at Neiman Marcus Tysons Galleria at (703) 761-1600. Ask the operator for Chanel Cosmetics.

In my next features, I will explain where I've been and show you the stunning NEST Fragrances collection for the holidays.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Le Métier de Beauté Stephanie BCA Kaleidoscope - Swatched

I promised swatches of the Le Métier de Beauté Stephanie BCA Kaleidoscope to Benefit the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Research Fund when I featured the Kaleidoscope on October 11. It took me awhile to get back to Neiman Marcus to pick up the Kaleidoscope, despite my good intentions, because I learned I have a broken kneecap. What is it with my knees?

I finally made it there yesterday and came home with Stephanie in hand. The conditions for taking swatch photos weren't perfect, but I was determined to do the best I could and post the swatches.

The shades, top to bottom are Light, Hope Heart, and Live. Michael Reinhardt applied the shades to my eyes starting with Light and ending with the gorgeous grey-green Live. He used Light all over the lid. It is the perfect base color to blur any "unwanted colors," like redness, or imperfections. I will use Light with many other shadows. Then he applied Hope. Pastel Pink! I asked for a mirror because I wanted to see the cute little albino bunny that I feared I had become. Michael said, "Don't panic; it won't be pink in a few seconds." The third shade, Heart, is a gorgeous copper, and Michael applied it over the lid up to and slightly above the crease. I looked. The bunny was gone, and the color on my lids was warm and beautiful. He and I noticed that the pink would be a beautiful blush shade on my pale skin. The grey-green came last. He used it as a "thick liner" and brought a thin line around under the outer third of my lower lashes. The look was dynamite!

Now, for the swatches. My camera does not see green well. I have known that for over a year. I suppose I could play with the photos and make the bottom swatch appear more green, but I am not a fan of doctored photos on beauty blogs. The top swatch is Light. It's aptly named because it does add light to the eye area. I applied the pink heavily on my arm, but applied with an eye shadow brush, it is very light (I applied the swatches with a sponge-tipped applicator). The copper is a gorgeous shade. Last week, I watched Michael apply the copper heavily on Nancy, a beautiful woman with darker hair and skin than mine, and she looked fabulous. The bottom shade is the lovely grey-green Live.

Michael grabbed a blush brush and applied Hope to my cheeks. It was gorgeous! I love multitasking products.

The Kaleidoscope is available at Neiman Marcus stores now. If you don't have one near you, give Michael Reinhardt a call at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258, or just ask for the Le Métier de Beauté counter. Stephanie was developed to Benefit the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Research Fund. Named for a former Neiman Marcus employee, Stephanie Seban, (who I assume had breast cancer), the Stephanie BCA Kaleidoscope sales will send 30% of the total (not net) to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Research Fund this month. That's unusually generous. During Breast Cancer month, most companies donate a small portion of the net proceeds. I am enamored with the new Le Métier de Beauté; they have gone back to their roots.

I think Stephanie is a fabulous Kaleidoscope for use every day. When I came home and looked at myself in the mirror, I saw a dressy look "for me," but one that wasn't over the top. A limited quantity of these Kaleidoscopes is available. When they are gone, they will be gone. If you are interested, give Michael a call. He will be back in the store on Thursday, October 29.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Le Métier de Beauté Stephanie BCA Kaleidoscope to Benefit the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Research Fund

Le Métier de Beauté's Stephanie BCA Kaleidoscope ($95) was developed to Benefit the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Research Fund for the month of October. Created specifically for a former Neiman Marcus employee, Stephanie Seban, (who I assume had breast cancer), the Stephanie BCA Kaleidoscope sales will send 30% of the total (not net) to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Research Fund this month. The limited-edition eye shadow palette was designed to flatter every complexion, with four shades: a neutral, soft pink, gold, and cool taupe that can be worn separately or blended together.

The shades, top to bottom are Light, Hope Heart, and Live. The Kaleidoscope is available at Neiman Marcus stores now. If you don't have one near you, give Michael Reinhardt a call at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258, or just ask for the Le Métier de Beauté counter. They quantities are limited, so don't wait too long. I think it's beautiful. I must hop over to the store this week (they just arrived a few days ago, and I have had sore legs for some reason). Once I get my hands on it, I will post swatches - probably as an update to this feature.

Photo courtesy of Le Métier de Beauté

Le Métier de Beauté Ultimate Hydrator

Any time I see a product name like "Ultimate Hydrator, Hydrate, Soothe, Calm and Repair" I get suspicious. Ultimate, of course, means the best achievable. Hydrator gives me the expectation that the product will make my skin less dry - much less dry. I told you last week that I would find out more information about this $225 product - primarily because I wanted to know what's in it that would live up to its billing.

I did, and I'm impressed. I had tried it in the store, but I put a very small amount on top of layers of product: moisturizer, foundation, blush - you get the picture. It wasn't a fair test, particularly since you are supposed to apply it right before your makeup.

Formulated to lock optimal moisture levels into the skin while delivering hydration deep below the surface to boost hydration levels, this luxuriously rich, gentle formula is safe for sensitive skin. It was designed to be comforting and to restore youthful hydration to dry skin immediately.

If you are good at reading ingredient lists, here they are. Water (Aqua), Squalan, Caprylic/Capric Triglyeride, Butylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Cetyle Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Butyrosperum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Glycerin, Myristyle Myristate, Tocopheryl Phosphate, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Hydroxyproline, Disodium Lauriminodipropionate Tocopheryl Phosphates, Proline, Glycine, Hyaluronic Acid, Silanetriol, Stearyl Alcohol, Ceteth-20, Acrylates Copolymer, Hydroxyethyl Acylate/Sodium Acryloyldimenthyl Taurate Copolymer, Carbomer, Polysorbate 60, Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA, Sorbic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Potassium Sorbate, Caprylyl Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Ethylhexylglycerin, and Phenoxyethanol. I'm sure most of you would like a bit of interpretation.

Ultimate Hydrator provides super hydration, moisturizing, plumping Botox-like effects with TPM, Le Métier de Beauté's patented delivery system that increases potency. The hydrator helps with the early signs of aging, resulting in reduced depth of wrinkles, and firmer, supple, soft, smooth, youthful looking skin.

The product includes:

• Argirelene: SNAP 25 - Botox-like activity, will help reduce the depth of wrinkles caused by contraction of muscles of facial expression
• Epidermosil: silicium and small molecular weight hyaluronic acid with synergistic benefits will enhance the epidermis thickening, collagen production, density and architecture. Will improves skin hydration and firmness.
• Shea butter, grape seed oil: emolliency for soft, smooth skin
• Vital ET, a triple dose of vitamin E for soothing and healing the skin

Ultimate Hydrator is free of parabens and perfumes. It does have a slight smell of cucumber, a masking agent, which dissipates quickly. Some people don't smell it; I do. The product was made in the United States. I like the pump dispenser.

Ultimate Hydrator has been selling swiftly. I think that's because you can actually feel it working when you apply it. It's a pleasant feeling that reassures you that the active ingredients are working. After a few days of use, your skin should appear to have fewer expression lines and be more plump and youthful.

Yes, it's pricey. It seems like all of the really good skin care is pricey these days. That's why you need to learn as much as you can about ingredients to help you judge the potential for effectiveness. Hopefully, we have been learning together over the last few years.

You can purchase Ultimate Hydrator at Neiman Marcus. I'm sure my friend Michael Reinhardt would be happy to tell you about it and have one sent to you. You can reach him starting Thursday at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258 (he is enjoying his days off). I wouldn't recommend that you talk to anyone else about Ultimate Hydrator. It's new, and I'm not sure they have been trained.

As you know, it's still Beauty Event at Neiman Marcus. With a $125 purchase, you will receive a tote with samples. If you spend $400 with Le Métier de Beauté, you will receive a full-sized Replenishing Daily Solution worth $225. That's my absolute favorite skin care from Le Métier de Beauté.

Photo courtesy of Le Métier de Beauté

How to Make Sure You Get My E-mail Notices of New Posts

Some of you are actually getting the e-mails, but they are being put in your spam folder by your own e-mail provider. This happens when the sender sends the same e-mail to many people at the same time. You can fix this.

Just add

feedblitz@mail.feedblitz.com

to your contacts. I had to do it to get my own e-mails placed into my inbox.

I have written about this before. See my post on June 8, 2014 titled  A Word about FeedBlitz, AOL, and Yahoo.

I'm sorry that many of you did not get last week's e-mail. It's a symptom of the new age of e-mail "cheaters."

Photo courtesy of spamemailsexchange.wordpress.com

Le Métier de Beauté is Pulling out All the Stops with New Products for Neiman Marcus Beauty Event

Four new Kaleidoscopes ($95 each), eight new Liquid Eye Prisms ($38) that left me drooling, five new lip pencils ($36), five new eye pencils ($36), and new skin care! All in one introduction later this week. Beauty Event at Neiman Marcus starts Thursday, September 10. I will be at the Mazza store as soon as they open. Not only will they be offering free facials, Dustin Lujan will be there with Michael and Chae. I spent two hours playing with all the new testers on Saturday and left gobsmacked.

The Kaleidoscopes have travel-related names. All have a translucent pressed powder (very much like an HD powder) on the top level, a blush immediately below, and two coordinating eye shadow shades at the bottom. See update below. The Kaleidoscope above may be called Full Stream, but it's also possible I can't read my own scrawl. I was writing on Michael's business card - around the print.

I'm sure the bus Kaleidoscope is called All Aboard. It's gorgeous - one of my two favorites. Directly below, you'll see Lift Off, the one I pre-ordered. You will note that the blush is softer than the one in All Aboard, better for my pale skin.

The fourth was in a display case, and we couldn't get it out. The photo has a yellow cast. Sorry, that was unavoidable. It's called Luxury Liner. Shown below, it appears to be one I'm going to want.

Now, to the drop-dead, I need them all Liquid Eye Prisms. It's a trend now to release liquid eye shadows - it seems like every line has them - but almost all of them are intensely colored. These aren't. They offer maximum control. They can be used as eye shadow bases or as shadows. You can build the color as you please. They are beyond gorgeous.

The new pencils are shown in the next two photos. The lip pencils have a new coral color that will be useful for many, and there's a deep red that will serve all shades of red lipstick.

The eye pencils are soft (not breakable soft) and apply like a dream. I'm smitten with the green one.

Michael drew them all on his hand. The eyes are at the top, with the lip colors below. There's also a smudge of one of the new eye shadows (drool!).

I don't know much about the new skin care yet - aside from the fact that it will hydrate and plump your skin. I'll find out more and let you know later. I do know that it costs $225 for 1.7 oz.

There will be a gift with a purchase of $400 during Beauty Event: a full-sized skin care product! My favorite too.

The two big days at Mazza will be Thursday and Saturday if you want to see Dustin there. Call and make an appointment. You know how popular he is. You can reach Michael Reinhardt at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258. I think Dustin will be with the new rep at Tysons on Friday (can't confirm).

I don't ever remember a time when Le Métier de Beauté introduced so much new color at one time, and it's all gorgeous. How, with no job, am I going to acquire all these new beauties?

Update 9/10: I got the true scoop on the Kaleidoscopes today. The third shade down is either a bronzer or highlighter, not an eye shadow. On the train and plane, the shade is a bronzer. On the Luxury Liner and helicopter, it's a highlighter.

Additional information: 1) the lip liners are a new formula that is waterproof; 2) the eye liners are a new gel formula that is water resistant. Dustin Lujan supplied all of this update information.

All photos by Best Things in Beauty, taken in store

Where Have I Been?

Just as I started blogging again earlier this year, I scheduled a right knee replacement for July 15. In order to make my house "walker-ready," I took off from work and spent over a month doing nothing but cleaning, which really meant discarding stuff. I gave away at least five huge bags of beauty products and stashed away twice that - all to get them out of my way. I didn't want to trip over my hobby, harming my knew knee, or worse, injuring another body part.

Last week, I finished physical therapy, and I can say that my knee feels good! I'm pleased. Thursday I got an epidural to help my aging spine. So far the results have been a little disappointing. I'm taking it easy today.

I know many of you thought I had deserted you, leaving the blog behind and easing into retirement.  I've certainly considered it, but there is a part of me that won't let go. I have pictures of new Chanel to show you, and I've purchased plenty of beautiful things to feature. I'm being careful not to buy more than I can wear, which is difficult. I am such an addict. Nevertheless, I hope to start taking new photos soon and get this blog moving again.

Thank you for your loyalty and love. You are wonderful readers to wait for me for a year, and I appreciate it very much.

The photo at the top is me with my friend Dustin Lujan. Fortunately, now that he has rejoined Le Métier de Beauté as its director of color development, I'll see him often now.

I hope to be back later this week with some goodies to show you. The new Chantecaille is gorgeous!

Photo by Best Things in Beauty

Le Métier de Beauté is Back! The Brand is Rejuvenated!

So many changes, I don't know where to start! Let's start with Dustin Lujan, who has rejoined Le Métier de Beauté as its director of color development (or some such title). Dustin has so much in store for the brand over the next few months, you will be delighted. It's like a new brand, with the best from the past and a new approach to color.

He is reintroducing himself to Le Métier de Beauté customers by visiting some of its stores. Here we are at Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie a few weeks ago. That's Michael hiding in the back.

Erin Lockard has also returned (yippee!), and she is working at the Houston Neiman Marcus. Add Hyton Lea, the Global Director of Skin Care, and the winning team is taking shape - once again. I'm very excited.

There are two new Kaleidoscope Eye Kits branded by Ken Downing at Neiman Marcus. Paris ($95), shown above, is the one I purchased. The pink is actually nice and soft - not as vibrant as it appears in this photo. I'm wearing all four shades of Paris in the photo above. Dustin applied my makeup.

The other, London ($95), is shown below. I see them as one for us cool types and one for warmer skin tones, but Michael promises he can make either work for anyone. Just an FYI, these Kaleidoscopes were not designed by Dustin.

They are both available now during Camp Gorgeous at Neiman Marcus, where the Le Métier de Beauté gift with purchase (below) is stunning - and available with only a $175 purchase.

Le Métier de Beauté is well aware that they lost some of you along the way during the last few years. Trust me, they are going to rope you back in. I've already jumped back on board.

To order during Camp Gorgeous, call Michael Reinhardt or one of his colleagues at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258.

I'll bring you up to date on the blog's future later. I do have more knee surgery scheduled on July 29. I'll be publishing again, but I won't be able to publish the everyday post I had been writing. I hope you will return regardless. I've missed you!

Update: There is a step-up GWP with a purchase of $400. It is a brand new bronzer-blush combination, and the color is orchid. It's sheer and beautiful.

Photos courtesy of  Le Métier de Beauté

Rest in Peace, Bonnie Codier

Bonnie Codier was a regular here at Best Things in Beauty. If you are too, I'm sure that you saw her comments from time to time. Bonnie won a few of the weekly contests I used to do, and when I could, I sent her boxes of makeup for fun. She called me her fairy godmother. I treasured our relationship.

Bonnie was a very special person. I used the term "was" because she passed away yesterday after years of suffering with Mitochondrial Disease, a very rare, but deadly disease that robs the body's cells of energy. I took the following paragraph from her CaringBridge page to explain to you how horrible this disease is. There is no cure.

Bonnie endured dozens of surgeries and had hospital admissions as long as seven and 11 months at a time (she celebrated multiple birthdays and holidays while an inpatient). She had a pacemaker and an implanted double vascular port and required daily IV medications and fluid, oxygen therapy, and lab draws several times a week. She delayed motility problems and gastroperesis, and she had her gall bladder, spleen, thymus, and colon removed (prior to which to she had a loop ileostomy). This disease affected every organ system in her body and caused adrenal failure, polycystic ovarian disease, and kidney and autonomic problems as well. Because of her severely impaired immunity, she required IVIG therapy every three weeks to help her fight infections, which often become life-threatening. Bonnie was unable to walk for years due to profound muscle weakness and was bed-bound, but used an electric wheelchair when she needed to be transported places. She also had chronic GI bleeding and required blood transfusions every three to five weeks. Her parents were her caregivers; her mother and father are saints.

Despite her disabilities, Bonnie loved reading beauty blogs, entering contests, and writing. I was blown away when I received long, handwritten letters from her, letters I would not have had the energy to write. She was beyond special.

Always optimistic, she wrote in December, "I have a fluid collection in my abdomen that needs to be drained. It has been drained before, and it filled up again, and that will likely keep happening unless it is removed surgically. Unfortunately the pathology sample got lost last time it was drained, so the doctor wanted to try again and hopefully not lose the sample this time. I would so appreciate your prayers, they mean a lot to me and definitely make a difference! :-) Even after all the surgeries and procedures I've had, I still get a bit nervous, and contrary to the popular saying, it doesn't get easier the more I do it, I actually think it gets a little harder since I KNOW how much it hurts to have my abdomen stabbed with a huge needle (I've already been *not* enjoying daily lovenox injections, since I have to be off my coumadin for several days before and after the procedure)."

Her courage was unparalleled. Unfortunately, she developed sepsis one last time and lost her battle with this cruel disease. She asked the doctors to let her rest a few days, optimistic that rest would help her fight the infections raging in her body. They sedated her, and she rested. Her mother posted the following announcement on Facebook less than 24 hours ago, and I have cried since I saw it.

Bonnie has fought the good fight, but her Mitochondrial Disease had taken so much from her body's ability to fend off the sepsis. She passed peacefully with her family all around her earlier this afternoon. We are heartbroken, but we know she is finally free from the constant pain and is dancing with the Lord in heaven. We will be arranging a service to celebrate her and her ministry to so many.

Bonnie loved ballet. I have a mental picture of her, freed from her ailing body and returned to the one that loved to dance. I'm sure she is dancing in heaven with the angels. The pain and suffering she endured for so many years are gone, leaving her free as a butterfly. May she rest in peace.

I send my deep and heartfelt sympathy to her family - and to the many friends she made at CaringBridge, among her medical teams, on the Internet, and locally in her home state. Bonnie was a very special person.

Photos courtesy of her friends on her Facebook page

Golden Globes Fashion

I felt compelled to write a short review of last night's Golden Globes fashion scene. It had its usual hits and misses, and there's no way I can cover them all. I'll show you the hits that made me whistle, and I'll show you a few of the misses that made me wonder how a stylist could have been involved.

Amal Clooney (above) has impeccable taste - and a finely tuned sense of what's appropriate when your husband is receiving the highest honor of the night. She looked beautiful in her Dior Haute Couture, but by choosing black, she left the spotlight to him. The gloves? I could take or leave them, but I do admire her intelligent choice. On a night when you have to shake hands with many people, why not protect your health with gloves?

Emma Stone looked great in Lanvin and was one of the few women who opted for trousers. The contrast between the jeweled top and black pants by Lanvin was stunning.

Could Naomi Watts have looked any better? Her Gucci gown was beautiful (who says blondes can't wear yellow?), but that diamond snake necklace was the perfect complement.

Dakota Johnson in Chanel Haute Couture was drop-dead gorgeous. The gown spoke for itself. No snazzy jewelry was required.

Allison Williams radiated beauty in her Armani Privé gown. Red was hot last night, and she wore it best, I think.

I loved Lupita Nyong'o's Giambattista Vallie gown! I would wear that in a heartbeat. She was glorious.

Selma Hayek, wearing Alexander McQueen, was elegant. It's too bad they paired with with a rather drunken partner to present an award. She was very gracious.

Julianne Moore dazzled in her Givenchy Couture. The gradations in color and texture of her gown were stunning.

Plunging necklines were all the rage. Some were beautiful - mostly on smaller women. I loved Sienna Miller's look by Miu Miu. On the other hand, Jennifer Lopez looked like she was wearing a custom-cut shower curtain. The boning sticking into her breast was not attractive, and she must have been wearing a truckload of Hollywood Fashion Tape.

Her Golden Globes have been overexposed. Time to change up your look, JLo.

Kiera Knightly looked hideous in Chanel! The Victorian look was out of place.

It's hard to dress up Lena Dunham. I don't recall seeing her look good at any awards show. Zac Posen tried, but turned her into a blimp in the process.

Another miss was Claire Danes in Valentino. Fussy and busy, her gown detracted from her beautiful face.

There were many other celebrities whose looks were stunning, many who were just so-so, and too many misses. I can't show them all; it would take all day. So, feel free to add your own reviews in the comments. Who do you think looked great, and who should have changed before they left home?

Photos courtesy of WWD