Estée Lauder Pure Color Gloss in New Sequins Finish - Swatched

Estée Lauder has introduced its Pure Color Gloss in a new, limited-edition Sequins ($22.50) finish. Six sensational shades are available in one brilliant finish, providing the ultimate color payoff - a new dimension in hyper-shine lip color. I featured them on Monday. You can find more information here. It doesn't make sense to me to repeat everything I was able to tell you Monday.

Bright lips are fun and bold. The extremely metallic lacquered gloss feels like a two-in-one, creating saturated color for high-impact lips that make a big impression. - Tom Pecheux, Creative Makeup Director, Estée Lauder

I purchased four shades, and I love every one of them. These glosses offer shiny saturated color that lasts - really lasts. They are amazing! My first clue to their staying power came after swatching. I couldn't wash them off my arm with soap and water. Woah! What gloss is that tenacious?

As a pink and plum lover, I purchased those shades (out of six available). They are shown above, left to right, in the order listed below.

• Cosmic Pink (03)
• Fuschia Vibes (04)
• Violet Rain (05)
• Purple Passion (06)

I think they are gorgeous. I swatched them in the same order, top to bottom, on my arm and took my photos in full sun.

Cosmic Pink is shown at the top. Wow! It's a pretty, pure pink with a punch that says, "Focus on my lips!" Fuschia Vibes (spelled incorrectly by EL, I believe), is a dark fuchsia that almost borders on rosy red.

The brilliant Violet Rain is a blue pink - not really violet - with silver accents. The Web site swatches are really good for these glosses. I had to have Purple Passion, the swatch that pops up when you go to Estée Lauder's Web site. The purple with golden flecks captured my imagination. It's even better than I expected. Look at the shining mauve!

Because these new lip glosses from Estée Lauder are limited editions, order or purchase soon. I can see them selling out quickly. Who doesn't love to swipe and go?  With the Sequins, you'll get it all: pure intense color and brilliant shine that lasts a very long time. I'm gushing.

These Estée Lauder Pure Color Gloss in the new Sequins finish is available at Estée Lauder counters if you want to see them in person. I found them online at the Estée Lauder Web site,  Nordstrom, and other retailers, so I ordered online. They arrived quickly.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Estée Lauder Pure Color Gloss in New Sequins Finish

Estée Lauder has introduced its Pure Color Gloss in a new, limited-edition Sequins finish (22.50). Six sensational shades are available in one brilliant finish, providing the ultimate color payoff - a new dimension in hyper-shine lip color.

Bright lips are fun and bold. The extremely metallic lacquered gloss feels like a two-in-one, creating saturated color for high-impact lips that make a big impression. - Tom Pecheux, Creative Makeup Director, Estée Lauder

This limited-edition high-intensity lacquered Pure Color Gloss with a sequins-shine finish has eluded me at the stores. I want my hands (lips?) on it pronto. A hybrid texture, high-impact shine, and brilliant color set the stage for a modern, sultry look that exudes confidence and attitude. New lacquered formula saturates lips with vibrant color for unbeatable glossy coverage, while luminous pearls create infinite depths of crystal reflections for a dazzling shine.

After reading that, you may have your eyes peeled for it too. Here's more from Estée Lauder.

Hybrid Texture

• New smooth, creamy texture combines the fluidity of a gloss with the softness of a lip cream to provide a lacquered, full-coverage base with a luminous, vibrant shine
• Non-sticky, non-tacky formula glides on effortlessly and leaves lips beautifully cushioned

High-Impact Finish

• High percentage of glass-like pearls provide tri-dimensional sparkling effect for a brilliant mirror-like shine finish
• Extreme shimmer provides infinite depths of crystal reflections
• Flexible, precision paddle is specially designed in conjunction with the formula to deliver an even and impactful color and sequins-shine finish every time

Brilliant Color

• Exclusive True Vision Technology wraps pigments in a crystal-like coating that optically enhances lips with prismatic full, vibrant color
• Smooth, even pigments create visibly fuller and perfectly sculpted lips for seductive color that lasts
• A high-impact color palette ensures intensely saturated color and radiant shine

Infinite Moisture

• Vitamins C and E moisturize and help protect lips
• Multi-functional humectants enhance lips’ emolliency and moisturization leaving lips immediately soft and hydrated
• Over time, the condition of the lips improves, feeling and looking younger and healthier
• Exclusive Estée Lauder signature fig scent

The colors represent every family. There is Molten Honey for nude lovers (you know what I mean!); Cosmic Pink and Fuchsia Vibes for berry lovers; Double Dare for gals who dare to wear red and coral; and Violet Rain and Purple Passion for plum lovers. I must get my hands on the berries and plums.

These Estée Lauder Pure Color Gloss in the new Sequins finish will be available at Estée Lauder counters soon if you want to see them in person. I found them online at the Estée Lauder Web site,  Nordstrom, and other retailers. I'm so there I just ordered them online!

Photo courtesy of Bloomingdale's

Estée Lauder Pure Color Five Color Gelée Powder EyeShadow Palette from Bronze Goddess Capri Summer 2012 Collection

Estée Lauder's new limited-edition Pure Color Five Color Gelée Powder EyeShadow Palette in Bronze Sands ($45) offers a fresh palette of five seductive summer shadows in "effervescent" metallic sand shades complemented by a sizzling pop of aquamarine in a hot, cyber-metallic finish.

The newest limited-edition Estée Lauder color collection, inspired by the Isle of Capri, captures the warm and welcoming feeling of summer in an exotic locale. The Pure Color Five Color Gelée Powder EyeShadow Palette offers a natural look emblazoned by the sun.

Turn up the heat with a sexy, hyper-natural eye look for summer. This versatile palette offers ease and flexibility to highlight, define and dramatize your eyes from a shimmering, natural look by day to a truly vivid, sultry look by night. A true innovation with new Prisma-Shine technology, the formula is a tribrid of a liquid, powder, and gel all in one, allowing for high-definition color impact that won’t crease, fade, or flake. Apply the shades dry, or wet if you want to intensify your look.

Pure Color Cyber Eyes Gelée Powder EyeShadows offer richly pigmented shades with a shiny, metallic finish. The collection puts the eyes squarely at center stage in shades that flatter and rope in the eyes. These texturally graphic shadows drench the lids in drama with shades that are theatrical, yet wearable.

This palette is a stunner - much prettier in person than it is in the photos! When I saw it first in the press photos, I was curious. I had had a slightly unfavorable first impression of two of the shades (red and blue?). I was so wrong! When I saw it in person at Neiman Marcus and got a chance to test the shades, I knew I needed it. I'm glad I made that decision. I've grown to love it - not just like it - over the last week.

My photo, directly above, shows the glimmering blue color much better than the Estée Lauder photo at the top of this feature. Blue isn't blue, and some blues are much better than others. You'll be looking for occasions to wear this ocean-inspired shade.

Estée Lauder's Pure Color Five Color Gelée Powder EyeShadow Palette succeeded in its intention to evoke the sea and sand - shimmering under the glare of warm, tropical sunshine. The metallic shades are "proper" - no messy glitter with this one, just shimmer and sheen.

I took my swatch photos in sunshine that was on the wane. There was enough light, but clouds were moving in. I used a sponge-tipped applicator to swatch all five shades, starting at the top left in the palette, moving clockwise, and ending with the divine aquamarine in the middle. Just a little more sunshine would have made my photos look just like the colors of Capri.

The copper shade has recently become one of my favorite eye shadow shades. It's amazingly flattering, no matter what your eye color. Gold? I'm a gold addict, and this palette gave me two golden shades: bright gold and pastel gold. Two golds in one palette made me as happy as Charlie when he's eating Pounce treats. Fortunately, we don't have to purr and chew at the same time.

The lively, slightly shimmering brown (not burgundy or red) is extremely flattering and coordinates beautifully with the other shades in the palette. The aquamarine? No photo can capture its elegance on the skin. Whether you like blue tones or usually skip them, as I do, you have to try this one! It reminds me of Cyber Teal, but it's not exactly that color. Wear it with the gold or copper, and you can become that seaside bronze goddess. It shimmers; it has a complexity in tone; it's eye-catching.

The Bronze Goddess Capri Summer 2012 Collection has arrived at most Estée Lauder counters. It's also available at Estée Lauder's Web site. There are two new fragrances in the collection, and they are nice, tropical fragrances that combine the alluring notes of cassis, mandarin, lemon leaves, jasmine, lily of the valley, peony, and base notes, such as vanilla and amber. I'm seriously considering a purchase of one.

This is a fabulous collection - summer at its best. Tom Pecheux has revolutionized Estée Lauder, making it a must-have line in my list of favorites.

Photo at top courtesy of Estée Lauder; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Estée Lauder Pure Color Gloss in Citron Kiss for Spring 2012

Estée Lauder's limited-edition Pure Color Gloss in Citron Kiss ($22.50), the only gloss in the Topaz Collection for Spring 2012, is a stunner. The collection is bold, but also subtle, depending on the colors you select. The mosaic of sublime bronze, taupe, and sand dune shades is punctuated by an irreverent (and smashing) twist of citron yellow and an intense pop of teal, evoking the naturally smoky look and romantic glow of a desert sunset.

Constance Jablonski, the "face" of the Topaz Collection and Estée Lauder's Advanced Night Repair, shown above, said, "Spring is about freshness! During daytime I love to wear only mascara, some highlight on the temples, and some transparent gloss...I think the Pure Color Gloss in Citron Kiss will be fun to play with over another color." I totally agree. I couldn't resist the unusual shade.

Citron Kiss provides a desert sun-kissed effect to the lips. While I doubt if I'm wear the golden yellow without lipstick underneath, I will be popping it over lipsticks for a sparkling effect. This ultra-sheer, chic shade disperses golden particle pearls for a very natural, warm lip.

Here's a photo of Citron Kiss taken at my house in full sun. I took some swatch photos, first of Citron Kiss alone and then over one of my favorite lipsticks to show you how it warmed it.

Citron Kiss worn alone is a transparent, shiny/glossy yellow. It's very light and it radiates light. It adds a bright gold to the lips and a pop of yellow gold over any lipstick.

I pulled a frequently worn and favorite lipstick out of my handbag and applied it alone at the top of my arm in the photo below. It's the discontinued Guerlain KissKiss Strass lip color in Brun Satin (#343). I topped it with Citron Kiss in the swatch below.

Look at the beautiful warmth it added to my mauve-pink lipstick! It's still a gorgeous shade, but it has a golden glow that complements the other shades in the Topaz Collection. I've tried it other lipsticks, topping my favorites, and each time it warmed the color. Brun Stain is very shiny on its own, but when you use Citron Kiss to top a satin-finish lip color, it makes the color come alive.

When asked how to use the yellow lip gloss, Tom Pecheux replied, "Yellow gloss immediately warms up the color of the lips because it erases their natural pinkiness. It will do the same for cool-colored lipsticks. Put it over a red shade, and it becomes an orangey red." I can confirm the observations of a makeup genius!

I think you'll enjoy Citron Kiss Pure Color Gloss. I bought mine at Bloomingdale's. It's available now at Neiman Marcus and other Estée Lauder counters and at the Estée Lauder Web site.

Photos courtesy of Estee Lauder and by Best Things in Beauty

Estée Lauder Pure Color Five Color EyeShadow Palette in Topaz Mosaic for Spring 2012

Estée Lauder's limited-edition Pure Color Five Color EyeShadow Palette in Topaz Mosaic ($45) for Spring 2012 is a sublime mix of five sun-drenched, neutral desert tones with a refreshingly unexpected pop of citron yellow at the center (to match the new Citron Kiss Pure Color Gloss!). The palette offers many options for layering neutral bronze, taupe, and sand dune shades to create a strong or subtle eye look. These aren't my "typical" eye shadow shades - or so I thought. I started to swatch them in the store and had a moment of joyful discovery. This is a gorgeous eye palette.

Illuminate your look by adding the citron yellow, backed with gold particle pearls for a golden halo effect - an effect the models at the Derek Lam Spring 2012 Show walked the runway. Housed in a sophisticated golden-mirrored compact with an oversized Estée Lauder cartouche, Topaz Mosaic delivers high-impact color and texture through a high-performance formula with Estée Lauder's True Vision technology. Skip the marketing speak and what you have is a palette filled with fabulous colors. It's a unique palette that will bring out your inner artist.

I had a small sunshine window yesterday (the sun was partially obscured by high clouds). I nearly froze as I took swatch photos, coatless. You may notice goosebumps in my photos. I applied all shades heavily with a sponge-tipped applicator and swatched starting at the top of my arm with the orange-toned shade at the top left in the palette, moving clockwise, and ending with the yellow center. The photos aren't as bright as I'd like, but I took what I could get.

There are two shades in this palette I'm going to wear out. I am madly in love with the neutrals at top right and bottom left. The shimmering taupe is a perfect shade for me, and the shimmering pastel peach is stunning on the lids. The yellow highlighter will brighten any look (it's not scary when applied sheerly), while the darkest shade (at the bottom in the palette) can be used to contour. It coordinates beautifully with the other shades.

When asked how to wear the vibrant yellow, Tom Pecheux replied, "To wear this yellow, it all depends on what you want to achieve. This is amazing on its own, but can also be used to wake up a neutral color. Try layering with one of the taupe or brown shades to add warmth and depth. Yellow doesn’t need to be scary, try using it just as a highlighter on the brow bone until you get used to playing with such a different shade."

In this model shot, the colors in the palette were paired with the new Pure Color Intense Kajal Eye Crayon in Dramatic Teal ($22), a fat little eye liner with a fine tip - it's easy to use. I think the look is gorgeous. If you want something a bit less flamboyant, recreate the look Pecheux achieved with the model below for the Derek Lam show.

Who couldn't replicate this gentle, natural look? Note that Pecheux deviated from the traditional application by using the darker colors on the center of the lid. It appears that the yellow is blended with the taupe or peach in the crease. This should put to rest any fears that Topaz Mosaic isn't a spring palette. It will take us right into summer too.

For the spring runway, Pecheux saw yellow. "There was definitely a focus on the brows. It’s all about strong, dark brows. And yellow, of course! I used a yellow eye shadow and lip gloss for the Derek Lam Show, and yellow was dominant at other shows as well."

I think you'll enjoy Topaz Mosaic. I bought mine at Bloomingdale's. It's available now at Neiman Marcus and other Estée Lauder counters and at the Estée Lauder Web site. Will you be shopping?

Photos at top and model shots courtesy of Estée Lauder; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Estée Lauder Introduces Pure Color Topaz for Spring 2012

I wish the sun would re-appear. If it weren't for the clouds, I would have swatch photos of Estée Lauder's Pure Color Topaz Collection for Spring 2012. While the prognosis that the sun will shine today isn't good, I'm still hopeful. The day is young (and hope springs eternal).

The spring collection is bold, yet subtle, inspired by the warm, sun-bleached tones of the desert. Pure Color Topaz, a limited-edition makeup collection, features a mosaic of
sublime bronze, taupe, and sand dune shades, punctuated by an irreverent (and smashing) twist of citron yellow and an intense pop of teal, evoking the naturally smoky look and romantic glow of a desert sunset.

Conceived by Estée Lauder Creative Makeup Director Tom Pecheux, pieces of the Topaz collection debuted at the Derek Lam Spring 2012 show, where Pecheux complimented the clean minimalist fashion with a dreamy, warm look of shimmering eyes highlighted in yellow, lightly bronzed contoured cheeks, and a sheer golden lip that captured the mood of the season.

In this avant garde color collection, eyes shimmer with neutral bronze and copper tones highlighted by the season’s startling, yet very wearable citron yellow, and are emphasized with sexy, richly pigmented liner in vibrant turquoise for a smoldering gaze. Skin is fresh and warmed with lightly bronzed, contoured cheeks. Lips glow with a sheer golden hue. Nails make a statement with a soft, yet exhilarating turquoise.

Pure Color Five Color EyeShadow Palette in Topaz Mosaic ($45) is a sublime mix of five sun-drenched neutral desert tones with a refreshingly unexpected pop of citron yellow at the center. Layer neutral bronze, taupe, and sand dune shades to create a strong, yet invitingly warm eye. Even though these aren't my "typical" eye shadow shades, I fell in love with this palette the moment I first tried it at Bloomingdale's.

Pure Color Illuminating Powder Gelée in Topaz Chameleon ($40) provides the dash of sun-kissed warmth to newly awakened spring skin. Featuring a fitting snakeskin pattern, this prism shine powder gelée can be used to bronze, blush, or softly contour cheeks. A “tribrid” system of liquid, powder and gel, this first-of-a-kind, “multi-powder” formula creates a theatrical blur of shimmer on the skin when applied dry and a fierce flush of color when applied wet. The unique suspension of golden pigments and pearls float on top of the skin, resulting in a truly unique sensorial experience. The modern powder is flexible and uses a luminosity-boosting complex that makes the complexion appear perfectly smooth, seductive, and warm.

Topaz Chameleon is going to sell out - fast. Get your hands on it as soon as possible. Between limited distribution and its appeal, if you wait, you will be disappointed. I bought one at Bloomingdale's and liked it so much, I've purchased another at Neiman Marcus. We hoarders are going to be an issue for women who want this gorgeous, limited-edition, golden highlighter.

The total surprise of the collection is the pure sparkling citrus yellow sheen with Pure Color Gloss in Citron Kiss ($22.50). It provides a desert sun-kissed effect. While I won't be wearing the golden yellow without lipstick underneath, I will be popping it over lipsticks for a sparkling effect. This ultra-sheer, chic shade disperses golden particle pearls for a very natural, warm lip.

There's much more to come here. I'll be featuring swatch photos and telling you a little more about each product in the collection. Tom Pecheux is turning out one hit after another for Estée Lauder, and I think this collection's departure from spring's pastel pinks is a stroke of creative genius. The collection is now available at many Estée Lauder counters (but not all).

As I wrote, the sky started to brighten. Here's hoping I can get some swatch photos today!

Photos courtesy of Estée Lauder

Estée Lauder The Color Stylist for Holiday 2011

Each year, Estée Lauder releases a fabulous gift set for the holidays. I love these sets, packed with goodies and only $57.50 with any Estée Lauder fragrance purchase. I'll admit I buy them for myself - one of my rewards for shopping!

This year's Color Stylist set comes with 30 colors, brushes, and more - plus tips on creating makeup looks for day or night. The chic red cosmetics traveler is great for makeup or brush storage (that's how I use cases). The set also comes with an elegant clutch companion bag and travel mirror.

Here's what you get in this year's set. The color choices this year are particularly nice.

• Deluxe Eyeshadow Compact with 18 coordinating shades (Summer Linen, Amazing Grey, Amethyst Spark, Flirty Lilac, Pink Flash, Purple Passion, Nude Fresco, Tranquil Moon, Peacock Blue, Smokey Ember, Berry Burst, Tempting Mocha, Ivy Envy, Chocolate Bliss, Ivory Slipper, Sandbar Beige, Hot Cinnamon, and Riviera Rose)
• Deluxe All-Over Face Compact (Estée Lauder Signature Silky Powder Blush in Nude Rose, Radiant Peach, and Pink Kiss, plus Bronze Goddess Soft Matte Bronzer - particularly appealing to me
  
• Three Pure Color Long Lasting Lipsticks (full-size, in Barely Nude, Candy, and Exotic Orchid)
• Pure Color Gloss (Orchid Passion and Electric Ginger
• Two Artist's Eye Pencils (SoftSmudge Black and SoftSmudge Brown)
• Sumptuous Bold Volume Lifting Mascara (deluxe travel size)
• Gentle Eye Makeup Remover (full-size) - I can't count the number of years I've been using this wonderful product
  
• Four Deluxe Makeup Brushes (Powder, Blush, Lip, and Eye) - I always love the brushes
  
• Look Book with tips on creating a makeup look for day or night
• Travel Mirror
• Chic Red Cosmetic Traveler
• Elegant clutch companion bag

I saw the set today at Neiman Marcus and plan to buy one as soon as I can determine whether I'm buying Private Collection Tuberose Gardenia for myself or replenishing my mother's White Linen stock. The Color Stylist is available at Estée Lauder's Web site and at counters.

Photo courtesy of Estée Lauder

Estee Lauder Pure Color Gloss Sticks from the Blue Dahlia Collection for Fall 2010

My favorite Estee Lauder lipsticks are Pure Color Gloss Sticks ($18.50), and there are five new limited-edition and luscious shades. Most eyes go right to the flashy new eye palettes in the Blue Dahlia Collection display. Mine went straight to the new Pure Color Gloss Sticks.

These are the new shades.

Night Bloom
Mauve Mirage
Orchid Dream
Midnight Bloom
Rose Dusk

As you can see on my arm photo, I came home with three. From top to bottom are Night Bloom, Midnight Bloom, and Mauve Mirage. Names - even the "in-the-tube" look of Pure Color Gloss Sticks - can be deceiving. While names usually convey a collection's theme, they aren't always good descriptors of the shades - in any line. That's why trying before you buy is always fun when you have an easy-to-find counter like Estee Lauder's and a knowledgeable and helpful professional, like the darling Aisha Henley. Aisha helped me pick out all of my new Estee Lauder makeup at Nordstrom Tysons Corner. I had a blast shopping with her - and yep, more to come in another post on my new Pure Color Glosses, the latest Tom Pecheux sensations.

I think the new Pure Color Gloss Stick shades are drop-dead gorgeous. Night Bloom is a bright pink that's not Barbie pink. It has a hint of peach in it to warm the pink. Midnight Bloom is a mauve-brown with an opal shimmer that's extremely flattering over the natural rose in my lips. Mauve Mirage is more pink than mauve, but what's in a name? Had I not spent so much on Nordstrom's Beauty Exclusives in the last month, I could easily have purchased the other two. All of the new shades are desirable.

I love Estee Lauder's Pure Color Gloss Sticks for many reasons. They are sheer, although there's plenty of pigment to make them look like glossy lipsticks, not lip glosses. They add sheen to my lips, which makes them appear fuller than they are. They feel nice and creamy, and they stay on long enough to make me happy. Most lipsticks advertised as long-wearing feel dry to me - if not immediately, then after the first half-hour of wear.

Fortunately, you can purchase Estee Lauder Pure Color Gloss Sticks wherever you have an Estee Lauder Counter - or online. Since the new shades are limited editions, you might want to shop soon. The favorites are sure to sell out. If you would like some help by phone, give Aisha a call. She's the Manager of the Estee Lauder counter at the Nordstrom closest to me. Her phone is (703) 761-1121, extension 1070. If you want to order online, through July 23, you can get a sample of the new Advanced Night Repair Eye Synchronized Complex by using the code FOREYES at checkout. Some of the Estee Lauder counters have these samples too.

If you are interesting in reading my May preview of the Blue Dahlia Collection, just click on this link.

Top photos courtesy of Estee Lauder and The Moodie Report

Estee Lauder Pure Color Night by Tom Pecheux

On May 21, Kari published a must-read piece on the Pure Color Night Collection by Tom Pecheux for Estee Lauder. To see photos of the look and the three products, please pop over to Kari's place at Fab over Forty.

The finely edited and stunning collection consists of a Pure Color Ombre Effect Eye Shadow ($20) in Naughty Black, a trio of matte and shimmery black/brown shades; Pure Color Lip Gelée ($20) in Kiss Me, a rosy nude; and Pure Color Luminous Powder ($40) in Highlight, the creamiest powder illuminator I own. Highlight is so creamy (for a powder) it's surprising. The formulation is fabulous.

Kari told us that this limited-edition collection would be available only at Bergdorf Goodman, so I called to order mine. I waited a few days, but I didn't dilly dally. I spoke with Donna Muzio, who was a doll. She convinced me that I should order the eye shadow, even though it looked as if it would be way too dark for me to wear. Donna, if you are reading this, thank you!

Although I haven't confirmed it, rumor has it that the collection has sold out. The first day Bergdorf's could mail out the pieces was last Monday. I've been anxiously awaiting the arrival of my goodies, and they came today. They are gorgeous!

Here are a few "arm shots" taken in different outdoor light intensities. I applied all of the products with the applicators included. You can see the highlighter at the top. I can't stress enough how pretty it is. I'm already gushing. I will probably wear this one down to the bottom of the pan. The lip gloss is stunning. I'm sure you read rosy nude and thought, "Yeah, there are thousands of them." None of my several hundred are quite like this one!

The three dark shadows (stripes in one pan) are all slightly different, I think my favorites are the two lightest ones shown on top, but all three will be useful accent colors or liners for me. I smudged them on heavily for these photos. Applied lightly, they are perfect smokey eye shades.

Thanks to Kari, Donna, Tom Pecheux, and Estee Lauder, I'm a happy gal today! Donna wrote me the sweetest note too. She's a contact I'm keeping!

Update 6/20: You can see Kari modeling her new pieces (she got them yesterday too) at Fab over Forty!

Estee Lauder Pure Color Collection for Fall 2010

Tom Pecheux, Creative Makeup Director of Estée Lauder, has been a busy guy. He was charged with bringing a new energy, style, and fashion edge to the Estée Lauder brand. It’s a challenge he is clearly relishing – although he admits there is still much more to do. The Moodie Report quoted top model Hillary Rhoda: "It is so nice that Tom is now here at Lauder. He is really talented and brings a whole new dimension to the Estée Lauder brand." Based on the latest from Estée Lauder, I think we're in agreement!

Kari had a great preview of the new Tom Pecheux Pure Color Night Collection for Estée Lauder, exclusive to Bergdorf Goodman, at Fabulous Over Forty! I called the store, ordered it, and learned that they expect it to arrive next week. Donna told me they are enjoying the gorgeous Night Collection testers. She also told me about the new Pure Color Collection for Fall 2010, including the Blue Dahlia palette, due in stores in July.

Here's a sneak peek at the new Pure Color Collection. Eyes will take center stage in hues of electric blue and vintage violet, while lips will shimmer in subtle shades of pale pink and raspberry (oooh, can't wait). Deep navy and iridescent lilac nail polishes will complete the look.Key items include the Pure Color Eye Shadow Palettes in limited-edition Blue Dahlia and Surreal Violet. Each contains five shades presented in a golden, mirrored compact. Single eye shadows, in four new shades (Twilight Rose, Sepia Sand, Enchanted Meadow, and Emerald Star) will also be available. Pure Color Gloss Sticks and Pure Color Glosses will be featured in shades of raw pink and magenta for a subdued lip look to balance strong eyes. A deeper berry shade (Midnight Bloom) will be available to deliver a stronger pop of color for those who want or need it. These look gorgeous in the photos.

Even more exciting, a new Pure Color Gloss Collection designed by Pecheux promises to deliver lasting shine, maximum moisture, and three multidimensional finishes. True Vision technology is said to wrap pigments in a crystal-like coating to provide intense color and shine. Six berry, red, nude, and plum shades will be available in shine, shimmer, and sparkle finishes. The glosses incorporate multifunctional humectants and vitamins C and E to moisturize, soften, and help protect lips. The lightweight formula will be comfortable, non-sticky, and fragranced with a signature fig scent.

Pecheux describes the new Pure Color products for eyes and lips as his “babies,” with the new Lip Glosses his favorites. “It has to be the gloss,” he explains. “Why? It’s easy to apply; it’s transparent; it’s sexy; you don’t need any technique; it takes half a second to put on; you can keep it in your pocket; and you don’t even need a mirror to apply it."

Anything catch your eye? I can't wait to see the Pure Color Gloss Sticks and Pure Color Glosses!

Information and photos courtesy of The Moodie Report

Estee Lauder to Acquire Smashbox

WWD reported today that Estee Lauder plans to acquire the photostudio-born makeup company Smashbox Cosmetics. Lauder announced today that it has signed a definitive agreement to buy Smashbox, which is based in Los Angeles. The deal is expected to close in July, subject to certain normal legal conditions.

Smashbox, founded in 1996 by the great-grandsons of legendary Hollywood makeup artist Max Factor, generates about $80 million in wholesale net revenue and roughly $140 million in retail sales. That's a whole lot of money in my book!

Is this good or bad for Smashbox? If history is our guide, it's good. Bobbi Brown, MAC, and other companies purchased by Estee Lauder have grown and flourished. I'm not sure it's equally good for Smashbox customers. We have grown to love the generosity of the gifts with purchase (Let's Do Lunch on Tuesdays and Thursdays have been a huge hit with me!) that might disappear under certain conditions. We'll see. Smashbox has been innovative in its use of new media to promote the brand, and their presence at Nordstrom, Macy's, and other large department stores has been exciting. Additionally, I think the brand's quality and breadth of offerings has improved markedly in the last year or two.

The only thing we can say with certainty is that a very few beauty conglomerates control the majority of major cosmetics brands. To borrow Bobbi's phrase - in a way she didn't intend, I'm sure - that's pretty powerful.

What do you think?

Photo courtesy of Smashbox

Estee Lauder Double Wear for Eyes

Estee Lauder has a new display at the department stores. At first glance, it doesn't appear to be "exciting." First glances are often incorrect. I took a closer look and ended up with a nice cream eye shadow and a new eye pencil - and they are exciting.

Some of the products on the display are billed as limited editions. Hasn't that become the norm? Is it intended to induce you to buy on the spot for fear that an item you favor might disappear? It sure works on me!

The collection is intended to keep you flawless this summer, through heat, humidity, and thunderstorms.The Double Wear Stay-in-Place ShadowCreme ($17.50) is available in 10 shades - some are limited editions. The shadow is said to have 15-hour staying power, and it does on me. I'll have to apply it on a friend with oily eyelids to see if I'm the exception or the rule.

The shades are very nice (see them below). I was very tempted by Enchanted Forest, an olive green, and Golden Sands, a muted gold - colors to which I normally gravitate. Since my makeup collection is heavy on these colors, I went with Silver Leaf. My silver cream shadow (Revlon and nearly ancient at this point) had started to dry out, so the Silver Leaf would fill a hole in my cream shadow collection. I love it!

The Double Wear Stay-in-Place Eye Pencils ($19) do not appear to be limited editions. Available in eight pretty shades, the choice was difficult when I limited myself to one. I came away with Bronze - a shade that is friendly in one sense (brown-toned) and flashy in another (some shine). These pencils provide a long-lasting line to enhance your lashes or eye shadow - advertised to last 12 hours. I'm not the best test model, with my dry-ish eyelids. I got 16 hours of wear and then surrendered and removed my makeup for bed. The liner might have lasted for days!

Just in case you think I have no color sense at all, I will not be wearing these two shades together. Now that I've put your mind to rest, I'll tell you what else you'll find on the display.

• Double Wear Zero-Smudge Lengthening Mascara ($19.50), available in black and brown and deeper black, the latter sold out at the Estee Lauder Web site.
• Double Wear Stay-in-Place Eyeshadow Base ($15), available in one shade, and it was not the shade for me.
• Double Wear Stay-in-Place Shadow Sticks ($17.50) - they went like "hotcakes" on the Web site - see if you can find one of the six shades at an Estee Lauder counter. They are very cool.
• Double Wear Zero-Smudge Liquid Eyeliner ($19.50), which is available in black and brown, somewhat unimaginative, given other exciting items in the collection.

Check out the whole collection at the Estee Lauder Web site or your department store's Estee Lauder counter. For you gals under 30, Aerin Lauder has seen to it that Estee Lauder is no longer just your grandmother's makeup company! There is something for everyone.

Photos courtesy of Estee Lauder

Coming Attraction: Tom Ford Private Blend Lip Color

Tom Ford has to be one of the sexiest guys in the fashion and beauty business, although I think he looks better without the facial hair! Everything he touches is an instant success. Get ready, makeup lovers! WWD has reported that Tom Ford has designed new lip colors for the Estee Lauder Private Blend franchise.

The new lip color collection, which is launching in April in Europe and on June 1 in the United States, includes 12 shades priced at $45 - each intended to serve as a bold punctuation to a woman’s look. As Ford insists, there is “no more dramatic accessory than a perfect lip.” He said he believes a strong lip has the power to “define a woman’s whole look.”

I've been hiding under a rock, I guess, with my understated lip looks. What's a gal to do when she doesn't look good with bold lips? I'm distraught, but hoping there will be at least one shade for me. At $45, selecting only one shade would be the restrained thing to do - right?

Ford told WWD, “This is my take on 12 classic lip colors. I took the most universally flattering colors that a woman can wear, and then I re-imagined them in a modern and authoritative way. These are signature lip colors for the makeup connoisseur.”

The lipstick formula includes soja seed extract, Brazilian murumuru butter, and chamomilla flower oil, formulated to offer a creamy texture and smooth, easy application. Intense, treated color pigments will help keep the color true.

The "TF" initials are carved into the top of each lipstick, and each lipstick is housed in an elegant ivory case with gold accents - and, of course, the Tom Ford name.

The Private Blend Lip Color Collection will be available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, and Bergdorf Goodman, mirroring the Private Blend fragrance distribution. The new lipsticks are expected to bring in blockbuster sales. So when you get the chance, if you want one, buy it. The Tom Ford collections for Estee Lauder fly out of the stores.

Information and photos courtesy of WWD. If you follow fashion and beauty, you really need a subscription! Daily news online for only $99/year - not much more than two Tom Ford lipsticks.

Tom Ford photo courtesy of Getty Images

Estee Lauder 2010 Bronze Goddess Wild Orchid Lip Gloss

Estee Lauder's new Bronze Goddess Collection has two looks: Exotic Coral and Exotic Orchid. Both revolve around fabulous new bronzing products (see recent reviews of Luminous Liquid Bronzer and Exotic Bronzing Blush).

The Exotic Orchid look struck me as exceptional - bronzed or not - because of one product. The limited-edition Bronze Goddess Exotic Lip Gloss in Wild Orchid ($18) is gorgeous. A bright pink, it takes the lead, leaving the eyes and cheeks as supporting actors - where they belong if you wear Wild Orchid. These lips shout, "Look at me!"

This gloss has a liquid texture that paints on pink - hot, blue-toned pink. Although it takes a little layering upon application to achieve even, rich, and bold color, the results are worth it. If you have blue eyes, this gloss is going to make them pop!

There's so much pigment in the gloss, you don't need a lipstick base, although it's beautiful over Estee Lauder's Pure Color Gloss Stick in Wild Plum ($18.50), the color with which it was paired on the display when I was exploring the collection.

You can see the Wild Orchid Lip Gloss painted on my arm at left. The photo was taken in sunshine.

If you are interested in purchasing any of the 2010 Bronze Goddess items, today would be a great day to order online. At Estee Lauder's Web site, today only (March 17), you will receive four deluxe samples with your order. There are some nice choices. Then, if you use the offer code SUMMERMUSTS - also valid only through today - you will receive another two freebies. Can't beat that!

Update 3/18: The four-sample offer was extended though midnight today!
Photos courtesy of Estee Lauder or by BTiB

Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess Luminous Liquid Bronzer for Summer 2010

The Bronze Goddess for Summer 2010: "Eyes and lips are lustrous, golden. Skin glows with a heavenly sun-kissed radiance and a hint of warm shimmering color." The Estee Lauder collection is designed to make you a bronze goddess!

There are two looks in this collection, Exotic Coral, and Exotic Orchid, and I bought pieces from each. I carefully "edited" a blend of the looks that works for me. You could do the same.

There are three bronzers in Estee Lauder's new Bronze Goddess collection - all different. I selected Luminous Liquid Bronzer ($28.50) primarily because it isn't sparkly. It's described as sheer, pearlized radiance, and I think that's accurate. It has a sheen, but it doesn't have shimmer. The gel bronzer, Bronze Goddess Bronzing Gel ($28.50) for the face added sparkle to my skin, and I wanted a more realistic glow. Interestingly, the powder bronzer, named Bronze Goddess Soft Matte Bronzer ($30) also left sparkles on my skin - go figure! It's possible that I was contaminated by the time I tested it.

The Luminious Liquid Bronzer is a long-wearing, oil-free liquid formula that feels weightless and comfortable as it adds a sheer, natural-looking light tan radiance. The color (on me) leans toward a yellow-toned bronze, and I liked that. The blush I had selected gave me the pink end of the bronze spectrum. The liquid gives me options.

It applies and blends very easily, and a little goes a long way. It is said to have a pearlized, reflective base. I'm sure that's the reason it provides a pretty glow.

As I mentioned a few posts back, if you are tired of your winter look, you may want to check out the Bronze Goddess collection. The pieces of Bronze Goddess are selling at a brisk pace at Estee Lauder counters. They are currently available at the Estee Lauder Web site, where you will receive free shipping and samples with a $50 order.

You can see how-to instructions for the Bronze Goddess looks at the Estee Lauder Web site. Next up on BTiB will be the collection's Exotic Orchid lips.

Photo courtesy of Estee Lauder

Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess Exotic Bronzing Blush for Summer 2010

Last week, I purchased a few pieces from Estee Lauder's new Bronze Goddess collection. One standout is the limited-edition Exotic Bronzing Blush ($35).

This huge blusher comes in a mirrored compact in just one shade pattern that should work for at least half of us! The vibrant pink mixed with a light-to-medium bronze powder makes this bronzer especially wearable. You can wear it as a shimmering sun-kissed blusher, which I have been doing for the last few days, as a bronzer, or to enhance the tan or bronzer you already have (or one of the bronzers from the new collection). I love the flexibility.

Estee Lauder suggests a few ways to apply it.

• For an exotic glow, apply it to the "apple" of your cheeks and down the center of your face.
• Use it alone as a blush sweeping from the middle of your ear towards tip of nose.

I find that it's also great for a quick contour under the cheekbones, at the temples, and to frame the face.

If you are tired of your winter look, you may want to check out the Bronze Goddess collection. I'm glad I did. I will tell you about the other pieces in the collection over the next few days.

Pieces of Bronze Goddess, including this one, are selling out quickly in stores. The Exotic Bronzing Blush is available at the Estee Lauder Web site and at Estee Lauder counters. Don't count on it to stay at the counters for long. I got the last blusher at the Neiman Marcus at Tysons Corner.

Photo courtesy of Estee Lauder

Estee Lauder Blacker than Black Collection

Estee Lauder's Blacker than Black is a collection of six mascaras, most with new "blacker than black" shades, an eye pencil, and the eye shadow quad shown here. The focus? A smoldering smoky eye.

The Estee Lauder Signature Eyeshadow Quad in Black Smoke ($35) will appeal to those who want to build a dramatic eye. The charcoal color (lower right) is a nice liner or accent color. The silvery white (upper left) is a pretty highlighting shade, and it's a nice color to mix with the other shades. One of the two grey shades (darker one, upper right) has a shimmering blue cast to it and would be the hardest for me to use because it's bright. It will look fabulous on someone with dark skin or toned down with another shade. The grey on the lower left is a great everyday color that you can use when you're not painting a smoldering look.

Estee Lauder eye shadows are made with a silky, fine powder that glides on easily and blends very nicely. Some of you have told me in comments you think the line is too conservative, but this collection is anything but conservative. There are more and more interesting products being released under Aerin Lauder's reign. It's worth a revisit. You have to see the Michael Kors Very Hollywood Collection!

The mascaras line up in every Estee Lauder type, including the new TurboLash. Four of the shades are limited editions. You can check them out online at this link.

The Double Wear Eye Pencil in Onyx ($19) is actually a charcoal-black to my eye and coordinates nicely with the shadows.

You can see the Blacker than Black look and how to create it at this Estee Lauder link.

I was a little late to this party and still had to hunt for the collection. I found it at Bloomingdale's. It was not available at "my" Nordstrom, but I'm sure other department stores must have it. Naturally, it's available at Estee Lauder's Web site.

Photos courtesy of Estee Lauder

Michael Kors Very Hollywood Collection for Estee Lauder

Doesn't Hilary Rhoda look gorgeous? The limited-edition Michael Kors Very Hollywood Collection for Estee Lauder arrived at Nordstrom on December 26, giving a lift to the Estee Lauder reps who were suffering from the post-holiday let-down. I bought only two pieces - more on that below - the items that worked for me. There are some brunettes out there who are going to be very tempted by this pretty look.

The collection evokes the Beverly Hills Hotel, the pink palace. The nude, pink, and peach collection speaks volumes about the hotel's 12 acres of lush gardens, exotic flowers, and private walkways. Check out the Best Things in Beauty post from October announcing the collection.

The collection has five lipsticks, five glosses, two eye shadow duos, two eye pencils, a shimmering loose powder, and two nail lacquers, divided into two color families: Rodeo Pink and Bel-Air Beige.

I like the collection! Unfortunately - for me - most of the colors don't work with my fair complexion and blond hair. I know they should, but bubble gum colors leave me looking pale and washed out - or like I'm trying to be a teenager again. There were two items, though, that absolutely had to come home with me.

The Michael Kors Eyeshadow Duo in Night Star ($30) is dramatic. Like night and day, the white shade is a perfect lid base, and the charcoal is a great accent color. Love it!

The Michael Kors Blush ($26) in Sunset Coral isn't nearly as coral as the link to the Estee Lauder site shows. Instead, it's a beautiful, natural peach that warms without adding a lot of pigment. It's beautiful, and it jumped into my bag. The other blush, in Sunset Pink, was too pink for me. If you have any pink in your complexion, check out Sunset Coral. If you don't, you will love the bright Sunset Pink for spring.

The five beautifully transparent Lip Sheens and five Lip Glosses range from nude to vibrant pink. Most of them are just too light for me, giving me a monochromatic, washed-out look. I can see them on others, though, and they will be delicious.

The lovely Michael Kors Shimmering Loose Powder ($32) will fit the bill for anyone who wants a subtle sparkle with a golden pink tint. It's very pretty. I was tempted, very tempted. The lovely rep who helped me had very dark skin, and she plans to use it to enhance her décolleté. She is already stunning and will be even more so with this powder.

The limited-edition items in this collection are going to sell out. Nordstrom got limited quantities, and stocks are low already! If you are interested, shop soon. The colors will be at an Estee Lauder counter near you.

Photos courtesy of Estee Lauder

Estee Lauder Limited-Edition Holiday Color Spectacular

Yesterday, I showed you the Lancome Holiday Beauty Box. Today, we turn to Estee Lauder's limited-edition Color Spectacular for the holidays, another annual favorite.

For $55 with any Estee Lauder fragrance purchase, you can buy this fabulous collection worth "over" $340. I like this set even more than this year's Lancome set. The rub is that you have to purchase an Estee Lauder fragrance to qualify. I wish it were simply any Estee Lauder product(s). I do wear Private Collection Tuberose Gardenia, but I don't really need any right now. Maybe I'll have to buy my mother some White Linen Light Breeze for Christmas!

Included this year?

• Deluxe Eyeshadow Compact with 15 coordinating shades (Sugar Cube, Ivory Box, Honey Drop, Lavender, Chocolate, Tea Biscuit, Copper Penny, Petal, Mulberry, Pale Moon, Cinnamon, Apricot, and Mocha Cup in Pure Color Eyeshadow, plus
• Sage Duo Estée Lauder Signature Eyeshadow
• Deluxe Face Compact (Estée Lauder Signature Silky Powder Blush in Rosewood and Nude Rose, and Bronze Goddess Soft Matte Bronzer)
• Four Pure Color Long Lasting Lipsticks (full-size, in Candy, Rose Tea, Fig, and Tiger Eye)
• Three Artist's Eye Pencils (great for smoky eyes, in SoftSmudge Black, SoftSmudge Brown, and Slate Writer)
• Projectionist High Definition Volume Mascara (10-day supply in Black)
• Lash Primer Plus (10-day supply)
• Gentle Eye Makeup Remover (full-size 3.4 oz.)
• Four Deluxe Makeup Brushes (Powder, Blush, Lip, and Eye)
• Look Book with tips on creating four fabulous looks
• Golden Stand-Up Mirror
• Cosmetic Traveler Case
• Companion Makeup Case (red at Macy's, Cream at Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom, and Estee Lauder)
  

This set is an extraordinary value - really nice! I want one. It is available at EsteeLauder.com, Bloomingdale's, Macy's, Nordstrom, and probably most Estee Lauder counters. There is also a free gift with any $39.50 Estee Lauder purchase at Bloomingdale's, doubling the value of your purchase.

Update 11/19: I ordered mine last night by calling my favorite Estee Lauder rep and having mine charged so it will be ready for me at Bloomingdale's. We were talking about what a great deal this is. And to think I just bought the new powder and blush brushes! Anyhow, Connie said that the eye makeup remover in this set is actually larger than the regular one - very nice!

Photo courtesy of Bloomingdale's

Michael Kors - Estee Lauder Partnership

WWD announced yesterday that Michael Kors has teamed with Estee Lauder to launch the Very Hollywood color cosmetics collection in January. My information here comes exclusively from WWD.com, the source for fashion and beauty industry information.

The Very Hollywood color collection will have 19 pieces packaged in beige with gold accents and coral outer cartons. There are two color families — Bel Air Beige and Rodeo Pink — each with two $22 lip sheens with SPF 15, two $20 lip glosses, one $26 blush, one $30 eye shadow duo, one $19 eye pencil, and one $18 nail lacquer. Bel Air Beige’s palette is beige and coral centered, while Rodeo Pink is characterized by vibrant pink hues.

Aerin Lauder considers three complementary products the standouts of the collection: a $32 shimmering loose powder, the $22 lip sheen in a subtle pink shade with gold flecks named Hollywood Gold, and a $20 lip gloss in Hollywood Gold.

I am loving the idea of the sheens, sheer lip colors from Estee Lauder! “That’s something that was really new for Estée Lauder,” Lauder told WWD. “It is an interesting way for us to look at color. In the past, we have done thicker, more opaque colors on the lip.”

Michael Kors designs beautiful, wearable clothing, and I'll bet his cosmetics will echo the casual glamour of his clothing designs. I'm looking forward to seeing this collection, and I hope it doesn't sell out as quickly as Tom Ford's Estee Lauder entree.

Photo courtesy of WWD