Le Métier de Beauté Giveaway Contest

I want this custom-made Le Métier de Beauté exclusive Italian leather trunk worth over $1,000 filled to the brim with over $700 worth of Le Métier de Beauté products - from nail lacquers to glosses, brushes, and shadows. I desperately want this prize. The problem is that I'm not going to win it. Why? I won't have a chance because I'm not going to enter Le Métier de Beauté's contest.  Am I crazy? No. I just don't think it's fair for a blogger to pitch this to her readers and then compete against them. So, let me tell you how to enter - but first, I'll tell you what's in the box.

• Six shades of Colour Core Lipstick in Uma Paro, San Tropez, Captiva, Kona, Nevis, and Summerland
• Nine Nail Lacquers in Paris, Crème Caramel, Silver Belle, Halo of an Angel, Purple Reign, Made in the Jade, Saucy Plum, Hottie Choco-latte, and Indo-sheen Red
• Kaleidoscope Eye Kit in Nouvelle Vague
• Three shades of Sheer Brilliance Lip Gloss in Maui, Summerland, and Ibiza
• Two shades of Radiance Powder Rouge in Whisper and Echo
• Three brushes: Eye Crease, Kabuki, and Flat Liner

I'm still hyperventilating as I write, so I really hope that one of my readers wins it. That would give me bragging rights.

Why is Le Métier de Beauté giving away this prize? To publicize its new e-commerce site, www.lemetierbeaute.com. How can you enter to win? Go to the site and sign up for the newsletter. The link for the contest is in the upper-left-hand corner of the home page where it says, "Sign up to receive special offers." For additional entries, "like" Le Métier de Beauté on Facebook, follow the company on Twitter @MetierBeaute, or follow in Instagram @lemetierdebeaute. I have no idea how they are going to keep track of all of your entries, so make sure to use the same e-mail address when you enter at different places.

Contest entries will be accepted today, March 5, through March 15 at 11:59 EST. I'll sign up for the newsletter after the deadline. Good luck!

Photo courtesy of Le Métier de Beauté

Bobbi Brown Eye Luxe Collection Giveaway Contest

I seem to be on a Bobbi Brown contest roll, but this one is too good to save for later. Bobbi Brown's Eye Luxe Collection ($100) is filled with everything you need to create spectacular eye looks. It's currently available as an online exclusive at Bobbi Brown's Web site.

All eyes will be on you with this undeniably sexy palette of sparkling and high-shimmer shadows. Bobbi's show-stopping Black Lash Glamour Extreme Lengthening Mascara conditions lashes while staying smudge- and flake-free. Four travel-sized brushes (Mini Eye Shadow, Mini Angle Eye Shadow, Mini Smudge and Mini Eye Liner) make it easy to dust, smudge, and line your way to standout eyes. The makeup bag is pretty cool too.

Here are the colors in the collection.

Add to these a full-sized mascara and four fabulous brushes, and you've got a great set.

How can you enter to win this giveaway contest (technically a sweepstakes)?  Just leave a comment on this feature (not in another BTiB post). After you comment here, feel free to send me an e-mail at bestthingsinbeautycontests@gmail.com (the contest address, not my "personal" e-mail) and identify your comment. You can never be too careful about sharing an e-mail address you care about on a blog, so feel free to follow this step (an alternative is to code your e-mail, e.g., myname at gmail dot com, in your comment). Please make sure I have your e-mail. If I can't notify you, you can't win - even if your number is drawn. I can't believe the number of winners I haven't been able to find in the past.

You can earn extra entries. Follow this blog (through an e-mail subscription, GFC, or though one of the many Google readers - see sidebar at right) to earn a second entry. If you are a follower, it would help me tally entries if you tell me in your comment how you follow. You don't have to follow to enter. I want everyone to have a chance, but I also want to reward my followers. I must be able to track this entry.

You can earn a third entry by tweeting this contest. You must include "@BTiBeauty" (without the quotes) and the contest title in your tweet. Remember, tweet the contest title - if you don't, that entry won't count. I will tweet the contest early this evening, and you can simply retweet it to earn that second entry - if that's easier.

The deadline for entries will be Saturday, January 19, 2013, at midnight. The next morning, I will use a random number generator (random.org) to select the winner. I will e-mail the winner on Sunday morning. The winner will have 48 hours to reply to my message and provide a shipping address. After 48 hours, the prize will be forfeited, and another winner will be selected. Make sure to check your e-mail - and look in your spam folder - when the contest ends.

This contest is open to anyone anywhere. Here are the terms. I will carefully pack and ship the prize (as I always do). I cannot insure the prize for overseas shipment - it's amazingly expensive to do so because of the way I have to send insured mail. If it's lost or stolen in transit, I may not be able to replace it with another prize just like it. I'll do my best on this end; let's see if your mail service does right by you on the other end if we have an overseas winner.

The winner must be able to provide me with a "mailable address," meaning the U.S. Post Office recognizes it or its street, province, and other "elements" the way the winner provides them. I've had some trouble with both U.S. and international addresses lately.

For all the legalese related to this contest, please see the Contests/Sweepstakes page at the top of the blog. Good luck!

Photos courtesy of Bobbi Brown

Chantecaille HD Perfecting Powder and Kabuki Brush - New Perfect Pair

Chantecaille's HD Perfecting Powder ($72) is remarkable. Created especially for high- definition cameras, Chantecaille’s revolutionary skin smoothing powder goes on without a trace, leaving only a flawless, matte (but not lifeless) finish. The hydrating formula is available in one universal shade that looks white in the pan, invisible when applied, and approrpriate for all skin tones. Worn over makeup, the translucent powder gently sets foundation, ensuring long-lasting wear. Worn over moisturizer, it adds an evenness to the complexion that might make you think about skipping foundation more often.

I was blown away by how perfect it made me look the first time I tried it at Neiman Marcus. Jeannine Barnes had managed to get her hands on a tester early, and she had it available at a media event. I applied it right there, over my makeup at an event, and was stunned at how flawless and polished it made me look.

The non-drying, colorless formula goes onto my skin with a slight white veil. The white disappears almost immediately, leaving behind air-brushed skin. How good does it get?  The powder softens imperfections on the skin - like my hairline sun spots - instantly erases pores (not much of a problem for me, but I know they plague others), and adds luminosity and radiance. Like all great powders, it evens out the complexion, while never settling into fine lines (ahem, I hate to mention them). It actually blurs lines.

Chantecaille says the weightless feel is an "ultra-gliding texture" that blends into the skin like a fluid. I'm not sure I understand that concept, but the powder does blend into my skin perfectly.

HD Perfecting Powder was formulated with new micro-fine perfecting powders that are undetectable under high-definition cameras or by the naked eye. This powder will give your skin a flawless, natural finish. Some quote unquote HD products promise the news anchor look without delivering anything unique. Chantecaille has delivered a powder I will wear daily, and I don't wear powder on normal days.

That reminds me...yesterday I was returning to my car after visiting the Italian Store. It was a nice day, and many people were eating at the tables outside the store. As I walked by, a man said loudly, "Your hair is beautiful!" I turned, and, sure enough, he was talking to me. Made my day. When you wear Chantecaille's HD Perfecting Powder, your compliments will more likely be, "Wow, your skin looks amazing!"

Chantecaille has also introduced a gorgeous new Kabuki Brush ($69), made with luxuriously soft goat hair, the ideal hair for blending. It's the perfect brush for applying the HD Perfecting Powder. The innovative firm dome of the brush flawlessly smoothes on any kind of powder or bronzer. You can use it to build, buff, and blend powder makeup for a natural finish.

The zebra print was inspired by fall's runway trends (Sisley is also doing zebra).  Conveniently sized for on-the-go touch-ups, this brush is a must-have. You will love it!

You can find both of these products at the Chantecaille Web site and at Chantecaille counters everywhere. If you think powder is a ho-hum product, unless it comes in little balls or has another eye-catching feature, HD Perfecting Powder will adjust your thinking. It may even change your life.

Update 9/30: Several of you asked for the ingredients in the HD Perfecting Powder. Here they are (click on the photo to enlarge it). I do not believe the powder is marketed as anti-aging. It is a perfecting powder, designed to make your complexion look great.

Photos courtesy of Chantecaille

Teaser Alert: New Chantecaille Goodies

There they were when I walked into Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie last night! Chantecaille's new introductions in play-ready mode. Jeannine Barnes made sure she had them to show us. I was careful not to drool on the museum-ready specimens.

You can already purchase that wonderful zebra-striped Kabuki Brush, made with goat hair. It's the perfect brush for applying Chantecaille's new HD Powder. I tried it out in the store and was blown away by the powder's effectiveness in giving me a soft, polished look.

The elephants? What can I say. Stunning makeup, good cause - how good does it get? You'll also want those two lipsticks and the lip gloss. If you missed my preview, just click here.

The eye palette has landed on our shores, but has not made its way to Chantecaille yet. I'm sure I've turned into a pest, asking multiple times a day, "Is it here yet?" I'll bet we'll have to wait only a few more days. I'll tweet its arrival at Chantecaille.com.

Want to pre-order? Give Jeannine a call at (202) 966-9700, extension 2289.

Update 10:45 am: L'Éléphant Palette is now available at Chantecaille.com.

Photo by Best Things in Beauty

Klix Makeup Brushes

Are you one of the many women who don't clean their makeup brushes - or don't clean them very often? It's too much trouble; you have no idea when you did it last; it's time-consuming. Admit it - even if it's just to yourself. No self-respecting beauty addict would use a dirty brush, right?

Now that we've had a collective confession (I suspect), take a look at Klix, the company that created replaceable, recyclable makeup brush heads, so we won't have to spend time cleaning, rinsing, drying, and reshaping our makeup brushes. Your skin will thank you.

I'm sure I don't have to tell you that makeup brushes can harbour bacteria, makeup residue, oil, dust - all things that shouldn't contaminate your tools. If you suffer from acne, rosacea, or sensitive skin, dirty brushes can exacerbate the condition. Incidentally, when you get a makeover at a beauty counter or sample a product on your face, make sure the brush being used was cleaned first.

Klix sent me some sample brushes, and I love them! The heads on the blush and powder brushes are extraordinarily soft, which makes for a light application of products that should be applied lightly. I can build color with them, but I never get too much on the first application. Perfect!

Klix designed their innovative, synthetic brushes to mimic natural hair. I'm tired of having to track down who killed or traumatized what animals to manufacture my makeup brushes. Makeup companies can be amazingly mum on the source of their brush hairs.

The white brush heads allow you to see any product build-up and know when it's time to replace the head. Button-touch removal releases the brush head in an instant, allowing you to toss the old head in the recycle bin and start fresh and clean. I don't suffer from acne or oily skin, and I find that a once/month refresh is about right for me.

You might think that the convenience of Klix comes with a high price. Actually, a powder brush costs $24; it comes with a second brush head; and a set of two replacements is only $11. A set of three brushes, concealer/foundation brush, blush brush, and powder brush, costs only $59. Most of us spend more than that on an eye palette (which can also be contaminated with a dirty brush).

You can check out all the options and prices at the Klix Web site,where you can watch a short promotional video. The Web site is "sparse," but the idea is flawless. Klix brushes would make nice holiday gifts for your hard-to-surprise friends.

Photo courtesy of Klix

Bobbi Brown Tailored Collection - Neiman Marcus Exclusive

Like a perfectly tailored pinstripe suit, Bobbi Brown's Tailored Collection ($100), a Neiman Marcus exclusive, telegraphs "polished, office-appropriate chic." In addition to a sleek palette filled with Bobbi's flattering and versatile shades for your eyes and lips, it features Illuminating Bronzer Powder, Blush, and Lash Glamour Extreme Lengthening Mascara to complete a chic look.

The collection also includes three mini-sized makeup brushes: a dual-ended Eye Shadow/Eye Liner Brush, a mini Lip Brush, and mini Face Blender Brush (one of my faves - one can never have too many of these). These brushes come with short handles making them perfect for travel and on-the-go makeup application.

Everything comes perfectly packed in a pinstriped makeup case with a divider to keep them separate.

The pinstriped Tailored Face Palette includes the following colors.

• Navajo Eye Shadow (creamy pinkish white)
• Petal Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow (light pink)
• Gray Pearl Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow (medium gray)
• Caviar Eye Shadow (blackest brown)
• Antigua Illuminating Bronzing Powder (light pink bronze)
• Peony Blush (bright pink)
• Soiree Pink Glitter Lip Gloss (pale pink)
• Nude Pink Lip Gloss (neutral pink)
• Pink Bouquet Glitter Lip Gloss (rosy pink)

Most of the colors are soft and subtle, as you will see from my swatch photos below. I took my photos in full sun, I applied all the shades heavily for these photos. The eye shades and cheek shades were applied with a sponge-tipped applicator. The lip shades were applied with the handy mini Lip Brush that comes in the set. I did not swatch the mascara, which is black.

You won't be able to see Navajo eye shadow at the top of my arm. I could barely see it, no matter how much I applied. It matches my skin perfectly, masking imperfections and redness, but without adding color. It's a perfect base shade. The shimmering pink Petal Shimmer Wash is a baby pink shadow - very pretty, although it may not be my best shade. The two greys in the group, Gray Pearl Shimmer Wash and Caviar, will give you options for accenting or lining your eyes. My personal favorite is Gray Pearl.

The three lip glosses are very light. Soiree Pink Glitter is shown at the top of my arm, Nude Pink in the middle, and Pink Bouquet Glitter at the bottom. Pink Bouquet Glitter is the only one of the three I could wear without lipstick underneath. I really like that lip brush, though!

The cheek shades are both very nice. My favorite is Antigua, which is a gorgeous warm pink bronze shade. It's perfect as a blush on me. I bought it the second Bobbi Brown introduced it. Peony Blush is a bit bright. I have to apply it with a very light hand.

I purchased this collection when it was still in pre-sale at Neiman Marcus at Mazza Galleria. I'm glad to have it. It's one of those handy palettes with brushes that you might want to keep in your desk drawer at the office (you never know when you'll have to freshen your makeup). It will come in handy. It's one of those classics you can always use.

There are instructions for application, should you need them, at neimanmarcus.com. You can purchase the Tailored Collection there or at your favorite Neiman Marcus store.

Photo at top courtesy of Neiman Marcus; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Le Métier de Beauté Makeup Brushes

Much has been written about Le Métier de Beauté's makeup brushes lately - and for good reason. They are fabulous brushes. I own the three shown above: Blush ($55), Eye Shadow Brush #1 ($40), and Large Concealer Brush ($50). I love their magnificent quality. I also love the fact that no animals suffered to make them. I will tell you that Charlie thinks it's the cat's meow to have his face stroked with my Blush Brush.

The brushes have short handles. With some brushes, I prefer short handles. With others, it's a toss-up to me; I can use them short or long. I know some makeup artists prefer long handles because they give them room to work at a reasonable distance from their clients. Personal space is not an issue to me when I'm applying my own makeup.

The Blush Brush is tapered for natural blush application. It's made with 100% natural goat hair. It's the one I bought most recently, and it was easy to clean up for this photo. It's nice and fluffy and allows me easy control to ensure I don't apply so much color I have to start wiping it off (or covering it with foundation), a casualty that's not uncommon with some other brushes. My skin is fair, so I need to use a brush that allows me to build color - not forces me to subtract it.

The Eye Shadow Brush #1 is as close to perfect as it gets. Also made from 100% natural goat hair (my those goats are soft!), it's just the right size for my eyelids. I use it as intended to apply shadows to my lid, and sideways in the crease. I'd really like to have the Eye Crease Brush for that, but I spend too much money and have to make brushes work for me when my credit card bill gets painful or I start thinking about retirement. The Eye Shadow Brush picks up exactly the right amount of shadow for my tastes. I can always add more, but it gets tricky to remove shadows when you've already primed your eyelids or added a base shadow shade. Starting over is not a happy option on work mornings when I spend too much time on my computer and not enough applying my makeup. I love brushes that make it easy for me to swipe and go.

The Large Concealer Brush may be the superstar among celebrities. It's described as narrow, but that's a front-to-back measurement, not a description of side-to-side width. It's actually a wide brush. It is the most perfect brush I've ever used to apply and/or blend concealer under my eyes - or anywhere on my face anywhere except on my eyelids. I can quickly smear a stick concealer under my eyes and make the application perfect with only a few strokes of this brush.

The synthetic hairs on the Large Concealer Brush are easy to clean. I didn't clean them for this photo, so you can see my under-eye concealer on the tip. The hairs are coated with something to allow the brush keep the hairs from absorbing product - and, I suspect, to give this brush its amazing ability to blend concealer flawlessly.

Would I like to have more Le Métier de Beauté brushes? Absolutely! I reach for the three I own more frequently than other brushes in the same categories. That's high praise because I have a collection of fine brushes. Should you try at least one? Yes, but be prepared to want more (or all) of them. Next on my wish list are the Eye Crease Brush, the Flat Liner Brush, and the Powder Brush. I need a second job - err, make that a third, since writing this blog is my second job.

You can purchase Le Métier de Beauté makeup brushes at all Le Métier de Beauté counters. I bought mine at Neiman Marcus.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Smashbox Masquerade Creamy Cheek Color & Brush Giveaway Contest

Congratulations to Sarah!

I thought the Smashbox Masquerade Creamy Cheek Color & Brush ($29), introduced in the fall, was so cool, I bought one for a giveaway contest. Then, I put it away and forgot it for a few months! Such is the hectic life of a beauty blogger who works pretty hard at a "real job." I love Smashbox, a company that has been outdoing itself with each new season. I'm glad we have a Smashbox counter at Nordstrom!

Masquerade Creamy Cheek Color & Brush has a luscious, creamy cheek blush formula on one side and a built-in blending brush on the other. It's packaged in a sleek, dark blue case. This beauty allows you to apply a gorgeous rose glow to your cheeks - and blend it with the brush, which is perfectly designed for blending a creamy blush. The blush is ultra-luxurious and long-wearing, so you may not need it for a late-day touch-up, but its portability will allow you to take it along in case you do.

The Masquerade Creamy Cheek Color & Brush comes in a one-size-fits-all warm rose-pink shade that will suit just about any skin tone. It's called Intrigue on the box. Glide the creamy formula over the apples of your cheeks, then blend with the brush for a flawless pop of color. You can even use it on your lips! Although it was introduced in the fall, I think it's a perfect color for spring.

How can you enter to win? Just leave a comment here once. After you comment, feel free to send me an e-mail at bestthingsinbeautycontests@gmail.com and identify your comment. You can never be too careful about sharing your e-mail address on a blog, so feel free to follow this step (an alternative is to code your e-mail, e.g., myname at gmail dot com, in your comment).

You can "earn" a second entry by tweeting this contest. Just make sure to include "@BTiBeauty" (without the quotes) in your tweet. I will tweet the contest later today, and you can simply retweet it to earn that second entry. You can earn a third entry by following the blog - either here or on Twitter (any entrant who is already a follower will automatically earn the follower point, but you can save me time by telling me you're a follower in your comment). I can't track followers through a third-party service, so you need to be on Google's list for me to verify the entry.

The deadline for entries will be Saturday, February 12, at midnight. The next morning, I will use a random number generator (random.org) to select the winner. I will e-mail the winner at that time. The winner will have 48 hours to reply to my message and provide a shipping address. After 48 hours, the prize will be forfeited, and another winner will be selected. Make sure to check your e-mail - and look in your spam folder - when the contest ends.

This contest is open to U. S. and Canadian residents only. I still can't go to the Post Office, although I expect to get cleared to drive this week, I'm not banking on it until I hear the words from the surgeon. I can do Click-n-Ship!

Good luck!

Photo courtesy of Smashbox

M·A·C A Tartan Tale Brush Bags for Holiday 2010

We all know M·A·C makes rave-worthy makeup brushes. Now, with A Tartan Tale, you can purchase limited-edition brush sets in gorgeous tartan plaid fabric bags! How good does it get? It appears to be fairy tale week at Best Things in Beauty. Here's another cute one.

Once upon a time, a bonny lass was in a Scottish ska band. She couldn't just pick one look - punk or princess? So she chose them all...fancy that (I feel like the bonny lass!). Her loot? The Lip, Eye, and Brush Bags from A Tartan Tale, at M·A·C for every girl who wants to arrive at the ball in flawless fashion, with everything she needs in nifty, handsome, heathery tartan modern mash-ups, trimmed in shiny patent. Throw on your favorite tartan frock (knickers optional) and off you go, perfectly ready to raise a ruckus!

Know what a ska band is? I didn't! Ska is a music genre that originated in Jamaica in the late 1950s and was the precursor to reggae. Ska combined elements of Caribbean mento and calypso with American jazz and R&B. It is characterized by a walking bass line accented with rhythms on the upbeat. Who knew? Did you?

This bonny lass bought all three of the brush bags! That's what I do when I can't make up my mind and I'm afraid an item will sell out. Each is priced at $49.50; they are great value sets.

• She's Got It All Apply, Define & Line Brush Collection, with the five best brushes to line and define face and eye: 194SE, 204SE, 224SE, 266SE, and 275SE
• A Lady & Her Tricks Buff & Line Brush Collection, Buffing and lining go perfectly with these: the 168SE, 187SE, 209SE, 219SE, and 252SE
• Sweep Me Off My Feet Sweep & Define Brush Collection, the five most-wanted brushes for that perfect application of powder or blush: the 129SE, 190SE, 212SE, 227SE, and 275SE - shown at right

These sets give you great brushes in pretty tartan bags, embellished with a gold heraldic crest and metal rivets. The bags have patent leather clip-on shoulder straps for those who want to use them as little handbags. They are the perfect size to use as purses when you only need your cell phone and a few other items. They also make great makeup bags. Each collection comes in a tartan box too.

It's love!

You can purchase A Tartan Tale at M∙A∙C online, M∙A∙C stores, Nordstrom, and Bloomingdale's. There are good reasons for this collection to sell out.

Photos courtesy of M·A·C

Bobbi Brown's Eye Couture Palette - Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman Exclusive

Like jewel tones? Like Bobbi Brown makeup brushes? Check out this incredible Bobbi Brown Eye Couture Palette ($220), a Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman exclusive expected to arrive in stores any day.

I realize it's starting to seem like Bobbi Brown week here at Best Things in Beauty (or Chantecaille week), but there has been so much news to share. I've even held back the Bobbi Brown holiday collection photos. I couldn't hold this news back. I predict that this limited-edition collection is going to sell out, and I want my readers to have first dibs. Get on a waiting list! I'll share contact information with you below.

First, though, I'll describe this palette. Just look at the jewel-toned shades at left in this scanned photo. Deep and luxurious, most of them telegraph fall and winter. You don't just get beautiful eye shadows with the palette; you also get four brushes in a carrying case!

Here is a list of the eye shadow shades.

• Star Sparkle Eye Shadow
• Diamond Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow
• Peacock Metallic Eye Shadow
• Onyx Sparkle Eye Shadow
• Amethyst Metallic Eye Shadow
• Emerald Sparkle Eye Shadow
• Bonfire Metallic Eye Shadow
• Topaz Metallic Eye Shadow
• Bash Metallic Eye Shadow
• Volcano Sparkle Eye Shadow
• Lapis Sparkle Eye Shadow
• Garnet Shimmer Wash Eye Shadow

When you think Bobbi Brown, you usually think neutrals, right? Bobbi has always had some darker, punchier shades, but this fall, she has added "wearable dramatic" to her counter repertoire, and I am thrilled by the variety.

As if the eye palette weren't enough, it comes with a brush set in a case that includes these brushes - all travel-sized.

• Eye Sweep Brush
• Angle Eye Shadow Brush
• Eye Contour Brush
• Eye Liner Brush

Bobbi Brown's makeup brushes are all top quality, so the addition of the brush set is so practical.

If you have a Neiman Marcus or Bergdorf Goodman near you - and you want this set - I'd suggest you get on the waiting list. If you don't have a store nearby, but would like to order the Eye Couture Collection, you can give Rachel Lagman, Bobbi Brown Product Specialist, at Neiman Marcus a call at (202) 966-9700, ext 2265. She will take good care of you.

Sometimes, Bobbi's collections that are exclusive to department stores eventually land on Bobbi's own Web site. This one may too - I don't know. I'm not taking that chance. I'm on the list!

Update 8/25: This palette arrived at Neiman Marcus today! They only got six of them in the first shipment. If you want it, call Rachel now!

Photos courtesy of Bobbi Brown

Bobbi Brown Denim & Rose Collection - Gel Liner, Gloss, and More

You can tell I'm impressed with Bobbi Brown's Denim & Rose Collection for Fall 2010. It has been the star attraction at Best Things in Beauty so far this week! In the first two posts, I introduced you to the Highlighter Pens and the Denim & Rose Face Palette. Let's take a look at the rest of the collection now.

The Shimmer Lip Gloss ($20) in Raspberry is another limited-edition beauty. Shimmer Lip Gloss offers beautiful, non-sticky shine with a touch of iridescence. It's perfect over the lip colors in the Denim & Rose Face Palette. Formulated with aloe extract to soothe and soften lips, vitamins C and E for antioxidant protection, and jojoba and avocado oils to moisturize your lips, Shimmer Lip Gloss does it all. I love the new shade! It's perfect for summer. It will also be perfect this fall - who could wait?

The new Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner ($21) in Denim Ink is another must-have. I love Bobbi Brown's gel liners, and I love dark blue liners, so this one was a natural for me. Bobbi's award-winning gel liner gives you the look of a liquid liner with the ease and feel of a gel. The gel's extremely long-wearing, water-resistant color glides on (use Bobbi's Ultra Fine Eye Liner Brush) and gives you just enough time to get it the way you like it before it dries. It stays put without a smear or crease until you remove it.

I took a photo in full sun of the Denim Ink eyeliner and the Raspberry Shimmer Lip Gloss. I hope the photo shows you the beauty of the shades. These are shades that should work for everyone.

There is more to this stunning collection. I just couldn't afford to purchase it all! There is a limited-edition Extreme Party Mascara ($22), Bobbi's popular mascara formula, in Denim - a navy blue that will make your eyes pop. Sparkle Eye Shadow in Denim ($24) is the item that was sold out at Neiman Marcus by the time I got there. I wasn't able to see it in person because the sales rep had put it away, I was rushed, and someone else was helping me. I'll catch it on my next department store visit. A fabulous Denim & Rose Mini Brush Set ($55) has every brush you need to work with this collection - all encased in a blue denim zippered case like the face palette.

• Mini Blush Brush - perfect for picking up the blush shade in the face palette
  
• Mini Lip Brush with Cap - great for gals on the go
  
• Mini Angle Eye Shadow Brush - you'll find plenty of uses for this one
• Mini Eye Liner Brush - that's what I would use to apply the Dark Rinse shadow or the gel eyeliner

Denim & Rose is a very desirable collection. Because the items in the collection are limited editions, you should check them out before they are going, going, gone.

You can purchase the Denim & Rose Collection at the Bobbi Brown Web site and Neiman Marcus. It should be available at all Bobbi Brown counters soon - if it isn't already. Through July 2, if you use code DENIMR at checkout, you will receive a travel-sized mini of Extra Balm Rinse and free shipping at the Bobbi Brown Web site. Who doesn't like gifts?

All photos except my swatches courtesy of Bobbi Brown

Edward Bess - Inspired, Elegant, Luxurious Cosmetics

There's nothing like discovering a new luxurious and elegant makeup brand - purchasing, receiving, unwrapping, and sampling. I have been curious about Edward Bess for months. First, Gaia at The Non-Blonde piqued my curiosity. Then, I explored the Edward Bess Web site. When it came time to purchase, I called the Edward Bess counter at Bergdorf Goodman. I had the tremendous luck and pleasure of speaking with Susan Babakhanova. I explained to Susan that I wanted to try a variety of Edward Bess products, and I needed help. I told her my skin type, hair and eye color, and she took it from there. Her selections were all spot-on!

Edward Bess is sold in the United States only by Edward Bess and Berdgorf Goodman. The Edward Bess Web site is elegant - and minimalist. No hype, just photos, short descriptions, and prices. Visit and you'll understand why I needed help.

Here's a short bio of Edward from his Web site. Naturally, his birthplace attracted me as I dreamed of the mansions South of Broad, a coastline of unspoiled beaches, the hidden gardens, a Rainbow Row of townhomes, fabulous food, and the glamour of a cosmopolitan city tucked in the South!

Born in Charleston, South Carolina, Edward Bess would discover his muse early on. With an innate sense of style and attention to detail, Bess was transfixed by varying degrees of beauty and the dichotomy of sleek and sexy with pure and provocative. These early images would serve as the impetus for his eponymous cosmetic line, a vehicle where Bess could channel his refined vision of how women should look, whether impeccably groomed or naturally seductive.

From attending Manhattan's prestigious Professional Performing Arts School, where he studied theater, to living among the fast-paced world of modeling in London, Bess collected and honed inspiration along the way to cultivate his idea of beauty.

The result is his finely tuned collection of cosmetics. Susan suggested I start with the Collections. Midnight Sun ($175) seemed like a natural. It is housed in an elegant, beautifully crafted wooden box lined with suede and embossed with Edward's name. The box itself is a work of art, and I will be using it for jewelry long after the makeup is depleted.

Inside are three products: a must-have Ultra Luminous Bronzer in Desert Sun, an All Over Seduction highlighter in Sunlight, and a Luxury Face Brush. The pieces capture the warm glow of naturally luminous skin bathed in the sunlight of a secluded beach. The collection is simply gorgeous.

There are two Ultra Luminous Bronzers ($48) by Edward Bess. Daydream is best for women with cool skin, and Desert Sun is perfect for warm skin. Neither has a trace of orange. The cases for the bronzers scream luxury. They snap shut with authority, and they feel polished in the hand - like a smooth rock you might find on the beach, its surface polished by years of the flow of the tides. Turns out I can wear both shades. Although Daydream, the lighter of the two was made for me, a light application of Desert Sun (preferably with a fan brush) gives me an entirely different look. The ultra-fine powder bronzers impart a sheer, believable warmth to the skin, luminous, but not sparkly. Because the color is buildable, you can control the intensity easily for everything from a suggestion of spring sunshine to a serious summer look.

All Over Seduction ($38) comes in two shades: Sunlight and Afterglow. Susan knew that Sunlight would be perfect for my fair skin, and it is. Shown here in a photo taken in full sun (with the sunshine glinting off the polished black case), the highlighter has an incredibly smooth cream finish for use on eyes, cheeks, and even lips. It illuminates with sheer, natural color. The keyword is "sheer." It imparts a natural glow, leaving me looking naturally radiant.

The Luxury Face Brush ($56) is expertly crafted with hand-shaped, natural bristles set in sleek weighted metal for superb, precise application. It feels good in the hand and great on the face - and it's perfect for applying the Ultra Luminous Bronzer. Do you need it if you have a good brush collection? No, but it sure is nice.

Did I purchase more? You bet! I'll save the rest of my adventures for another day. If you are tempted to experience the luxury of Edward Bess, give Susan Babakhanova at Bergdorf Goodman a call at (212) 872-8826. She will provide professional and friendly assistance - no hard sell, just great information.

Photos by Edward Bess and BTiB

MAC Holiday Makeup Brush Sets - Discounted at Nordstrom

It's a great time to pick up a MAC makeup brush set at Nordstrom. There are three limited-edition sets that were all originally priced at $49.50. They have been discounted to $38.90, a 20% reduction. All come in a small, rectangular makeup bag of polished silvery-pewter vinyl - the zip adorned with a round bead and grosgrain ribbon detail. I bought one set when they were released. Now I'm seriously considering the other two.

The Magic, Mirth & Mischief - Do the Trick Brush Bag (shown above) has five buff-and-line brushes: 168SE, 187SE, 209SE, 219SE, and 252SE.

The Magic, Mirth & Mischief - Morning, Noon & Knight Eye Brush Bag (shown at right) has five key brushes for the eyes: 194SE, 204SE, 224SE, 266SE, and 275SE.

The Magic, Mirth & Mischief - Wave of a Wand Sweep & Define Brush Set (shown below) includes brushes 129SE, 190SE, 212SE, 227SE, and 275SE.
I don't have to tell you that MAC's makeup brushes are renowned for their quality. These sets were great values at full price, and they are steals now. I'm sure they will sell out at these prices.

Update 12/27: Nordstrom at Tysons Corner Center has sold out of Sweep & Define, as has the Nordstrom Web site. Tysons has a few left of the other two sets.

Photos courtesy of Nordstrom

Nordstrom's Exclusive Makeup Gifts for the Holidays

While cruising through the beauty department at Nordstrom Saturday, I saw two fabulous gift sets. The Ten-piece Makeup Brush Set, very reasonably priced at $29.50, jumped right into my hands. I haven't decided who the lucky recipient will be. Sometimes I buy gifts I would love to have and figure out who gets what later.

The 10 brushes, surrounded by a metallic reptile-embossed fabric cylinder case, are compact enough to pack, yet too luxe to hide. Each brush has a sleek silver handle and elegant black barrel. The following brushes are included in the set: lip brush, powder brush, angled cheek brush, lid-coloring brush, shadow smudge brush, blending brush, crease-defining brush, angled liner brush, concealer brush, and eyebrow brush - all useful.

The Nordstrom Holiday Blockbuster Palette ($29.50) is a eye shadow lover's dream. The set has 144 eye shadows and 12 warm-toned blush colors. I don't remember seeing a similar palette at Nordstrom last year. It's much like the Sephora and Ulta palettes that provide a wardrobe of color for a very reasonable price. I think I have to go back and get this one for a young lady I know.

If you are looking for beauty gifts, you can purchase these in Nordstrom stores or at Nordstrom.com.

Photos courtesy of Nordstrom

Beauty Shopping at Bloomies - Part 1 Lancome

Today, I went to the mall. I wanted to purchase "Pink Ribbon" products and see any new goodies that had hit the counters. Because I had to pick up some things I had ordered from Connie Ferrara, my Estee Lauder rep at Bloomingdale's, I went to Tysons Corner Center. They had a lot of new arrivals and gifts with purchase in the beauty department, so the trip was fun!

Bloomingdale's is supporting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation through its Give Pink Get More Program. Bloomingdale's Insider Card members who enroll by donating $15, will receive a Give Pink Get More gift card that can be used for holiday shopping in store and online. The more you spend in store in October, the more you'll get back. Just click on this link for details.

The new Lancome Deluxe Brush Set is so cool. Even though I don't need more brushes, I had to buy it! The store only received a few, and I knew I would regret going home without it. For $59, you get five precision, short-handled brushes in the beautiful clutch shown here. On top of that, they had a nice gift with purchase. Next time I go, I'd like to spend more time with Shammi Bindra to see the new skin care, Absolue Precious Cells, that Kari reviewed on Fabulous Over Forty.

The brush set includes the following brushes.

• Foundation Brush #2 -The must-have brush for flawlessly applying any foundation
• Powder Brush #1 - The pro for sheer, smooth, naturally flawless powder or blusher application
• Precision Shadow Brush #12 - A great eye shadow brush
• Dual Ended Brush #18 - Two sided: the flat, fine edge brush precisely applies shadow, wet or dry, to create a sharp eye liner, and a shadow brush on the other end
• Blending Shadow Brush #17 - For precise eye shadow application that makes smudging in the corners a breeze

I know I'll love these brushes. I like them better than the Indigo brushes that were introduced a couple of months ago. Although both colors are strange for makeup brushes, the purple (more ruby toned than shown above) reeled me in!

Guerlain's Holiday Collection for 2009 was in the store, and I had to buy a few gorgeous items. I'll tell you about them tomorrow. I also got a darling Clinique lip gloss set in a pink zip bag. I'm loving all my new treats, but where on earth will I put them? My house has turned into a makeup emporium.

Photo courtesy of Lancome

Estee Lauder's New Makeup Brushes

"Individually designed and engineered with direction from top makeup artists from around the globe," Estee Lauder has introduced a new line of makeup brushes. The Blush Brush 15 ($32) shown here replaces my favorite Estee Lauder blush brush.

This great brush applies blusher with a softness that is hard to beat. A quick swirl on your cheeks, and your powder blusher is evenly applied and natural looking. The brush deposits just the right amount of product on your skin.

The new line has nine brushes: powder foundation, powder, blush, foundation, concealer, blending shadow, contour shadow, lip, and eyeliner/brow. The prices range from $20 to $42.

If you purchase a makeup brush at Estee Lauder's Web site and use the code REMOVE at checkout, you will receive a great fold-up mirror and a five-day supply of Take It Away makeup remover towelettes. As always, at Estee Lauder's Web site, you get to select your free samples with purchase.

Photo courtesy of Estee Lauder.

Bobbi Brown Makeup Brushes

I'm on a Bobbi Brown roll - a brush roll! Bobbi Brown makes some of my favorite makeup brushes. Here are some Bobbi Brown brushes I would recommend to anyone and everyone - and can't live without.

There is quite an array of brushes for powder shadows. The new Angle Eye Shadow Brush ($28) appeared with the Ivy League Collection. It is great for adding powder shadow to the outer lid and contouring. I really like this new addition.

The Eye Shader Brush ($30) is designed to apply shadow from lashes to brow and makes the task fast and easy. The regular Eye Shadow Brush ($28) is fabulous. The Bobbi Brown Web site says can this shadow brush can be used with the cream shadows, but I wouldn't - I prefer the Cream Shadow Brush described below. The Eye Sweep Brush ($30) is made for those of us who like to pick up a conservative amount of product. The Eye Blender Brush ($30) is a multitasker since you can use it to blend shadows seamlessly and also apply setting powder over concealer. There are more shadow brushes available for powder shadows, but these are my essentials.

For your cream shadows, nothing beats the Cream Shadow Brush ($28). This is the perfect brush for applying the new Metallic Long-Wear Cream Shadow and the original Long-Wear Cream Shadows. I use this brush with all of my cream shadow brands, and the application is always fast, easy, and even. These brushes pick up just the right amount of product. Love them so much I bought three!

The Touch Up Brush ($28) has a special place in my heart. I use it every day to apply my eye shadow primer. It's also ideal for use with concealer and other cream products. The size makes it perfect for those hard-to-reach places on your face.

So far, we've only covered eyes! There are plenty of cheek brushes. My favorite is the Face Blender Brush ($40 and shown to the right), which was designed to be used with Shimmer Brick Compacts, but is also a great applicator for blushers and bronzers. Of course, the Powder Brush ($60), a bit more pricey, is a light, fluffy applicator for powder, and it sets makeup beautifully. The Foundation Brush ($35) is perfect for liquid or cream foundations. I use it most often for cream blushers.

If you use palette lip colors, you must have the Retractable Lip Brush ($25) - no messy fingers to apply your lipstick, and no mess afterwards.

There are many other brushes, a specialty for Bobbi Brown, and they all work well. What else would you expect from one of the world's best makeup artists? If you add up all the prices for my favorite brushes, your grand total will be expensive. You need to consider, though, that these brushes will last forever if you take good care of them (and clean them now and then!). I buy one every time I have a few extra dollars to spend on my brush collection.

Bobbi Brown offers brush sets, which you can see at this link. The Basic Brush Collection ($175) is shown in the picture above. Also, some of the limited-edition makeup sets come with brushes, which is a great way to expand your collection.

You can see and purchase all of the Bobbi brushes at the Bobbi Brown Web site and at major department stores (for example, Saks, Nordstrom, and Neiman Marcus). These are superb brushes. Remember: take good care of them, and they will last for decades.

Photo courtesy of Bobbi Brown.

EcoTools Makeup Brushes

My friends are raving about EcoTools Earth-Friendly Bamboo Brushes, available for power, blush, eye shadow and eye liner, foundation, lash and brow, and bronzers. The brushes have soft, cruelty-free bristles made of synthetic talkon, and they are made with natural (bamboo) and recycled (aluminum) materials. Bamboo is a highly sustainable plant. Years ago, my father planted bamboo near the stream. If a Chinese restaurant owner didn't harvest the young shoots each spring, the bamboo would have overtaken the house by now!

The brushes were featured in the April 2009 Lucky magazine's "Best of Inexpensive Green Beauty" piece. The five-piece set shown here is $14.99. Prices of the single brushes range from $3.99 to $9.99 at Ulta. They are also available at drugstore.com and in some drugstores.

One friend who has been using them for a couple of weeks says they are velvety soft and effective applicators that pick up just the right amount of product. Even better, she said they don't shed bristles. Given that they are "green," it's worth spreading the word.

Footnote: WWD has announced that actress Alicia Silverstone is partnering with EcoTools to launch a brush and storage line in time for the holidays. Stay tuned.

Photo courtesy of EcoTools.