Stila Countless Color Pigments

While I was browsing at Sephora last week, looking for bargains, I found Stila's new Countless Color Pigments ($22), a selection of vibrant pigments that can be worn alone or mixed and matched to create countless shade combinations. They looked nice, so I ordered one: Groupie. I was really tempted to order Acoustic too, but I decided I had time to see whether I liked Groupie before I ordered more. The VIB sale runs for another week.

My intuition was spot on - this time. I know I selected a conservative shade, but I'm still delighted to report that the color, texture, finish, and quality (made in Italy) are worthy of comparison to luxury lines - but without the luxury prices.

Turn heads wherever you go. Stila’s beautiful and exclusive first-to-market formula is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Each pan is a piece of art: vibrant pigments are handmade using a proprietary pressing and baking process. The full-coverage formula is long-wearing and packaged in a festive, colorful compact. Wear each shade alone; blend two shades together; swirl all three shades for a pop shade; or swipe across all three shades to create a multi-shade streaked effect. Use your creativity and let your imagination run wild.

You can do that too, although I didn't when I first swatched Groupie for my photos below. I swirled, using my sponge-tipped applicator, out of curiosity blending across all of the shades. I took my photos in full, mid-afternoon sun.

I hope you can see the beautiful dimension of this blended color. The peach tempered the brown, creating the perfect springtime brown - not too dark, not too light.  The finish has a gleam (subtle shine, perhaps), but it's not sparkly.

As I looked at the photos, I started feeling like a lazy duffer. I think I've become one since I "suffered" my stress fracture. So I went back outside and swatched the golden peach side below the blended swatch to show you how pretty it is.

Owning this Stila Countless Color Pigment Eye Shadow is like having a new eye shadow duo. I've always liked Stila makeup. Knowing it's paraben-, sulfate-, and phthalate-free makes me happy. Plus the colors are trendy yet oh-so-wearable.

While you're shopping during Sephora's VIB sale, head over to Stila and take a look at the Countless Color Pigments. With the 15% discount, they are only $18.70! They are also available at Stila's Web site and Ulta, but wouldn't you want the discount?

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

Stila Color Balm Lipstick

Put "balm" in the name of a lipstick, and I'm there. As soon as I saw Stila's Color Balm Lipsticks ($22), I purchased a few - a few too many. Silly me, in the same week, I ordered a few from Sephora, then forgot I had done that and purchased two at Ulta.

Here is what Stila says about Color Balm Lipstick...

A modern take on traditional lipstick, this creamy lip color provides the full pigment load of a lipstick, yet delivers the nourishing properties of a balm. Featuring a luxe, satin finish, this formula offers excellent color payoff while phyto-derived emollient properties deliver hydrated, healthy lips. Naturally cooling peppermint oil provides a fresh and rejuvenating sensation on the lips, while an exclusive certified organic sunflower-based polyglyceride soothes, smoothes, and adds volume and definition to lips. 

You can read more about them at Stila's Web site. While I was shopping at Ulta, I purchased Evangeline (#10), a dusty rose shown at left above, and Sheri (#19), the cocoa berry shown at right. I did a quick hand swatch to see whether these two colors suited me, and at the time, I was struck by how pigmented these lipsticks were for "balms."

After wearing both of them, I have to report that there is nothing balm-like about them. They are not particularly sheer, and they are not particularly hydrating. They feel and look like regular, highly pigmented lipsticks - pretty lipsticks, but not in the same league with this season's, sheer, shiny, and balm-like beauties. I'm wondering if the name "Color Balm Lipstick" was a marketer's dream. Stila is perfectly upfront in the description about what to expect: a full pigment load and a satin finish. The problem lies with the company's description of the creamy, hydrating properties. Technically, the ingredients may be expected to hydrate, but they don't feel particularly hydrating to me. My lips cry out for a gloss on top of them.

The day I took photos, it was so windy that the lipsticks were rolling every which way. That's why they look a little beat up above. I took my swatch photos in full sun hurriedly, just trying to get back into my warm house.

Evangeline is shown at the top of my arm, with Cocoa Berry below. Aren't these pretty colors? I would be excited about them if I hadn't had the sheer-shine-balm expectation. Had I read Stila's description before I bought, I would have seen that the finish was described as satin (best representation is in the photo below), and I would have known that there would be a peppermint flavor - which does not appeal to me. Stila even says, "Naturally cooling peppermint oil is an emollient-rich botanical that provides excellent antiseptic and astringent benefits with a refreshing tingle that both soothes and stimulates irritated lips." OK, while it annoys the heck out of me.

I have these two, they are very pretty, but that's enough. I didn't need any more "regular" lipsticks, so the ones I ordered from Sephora and never opened will go back. If you want a nice lipstick in a gorgeous color, and you are good with the finish and flavor, definitely check out Stila's Color Balm Lipstick. If, like me, you are loving the new breed of balmy, sheer colors, head over to the Tom Ford counter.

You can purchase Stila's Color Balm Lipsticks at Stila's Web site, Sephora, Ulta, and other online sources.

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

Stila All You Need Is Love Valentine's Day Cheek Palette

I was shopping at Ulta last weekend for the first time in years, and I saw Stila's darling All You Need Is Love Valentine's Day Cheek Palette ($14) at the checkout register. How could I resist? That was clever product placement.

This limited-edition, multi-colored pressed powder blush comes in a whimsical, embossed "love" design. The shimmery gold overspray won't stick around for long, but it will keep your cheeks looking naturally radiant and flushed for Valentine's Day.

The shades can be worn separately or mixed and matched for a variety of shades that are sure to keep you blushing. I decided to give you one view of the color by swatching with a sponge-tipped applicator in the center, where all four squares join. I did not pick up the gold with the applicator because I wanted to show the blush as it would look after the gold "love" is long gone. Hopefully, the object of your affection will still be around.

The larger swatch below was applied with a blending brush. It was applied to show you a more realistic look of the color as a highlighting blush. Because of the size of the blush, I did sweep over all four shades, including the gold "love." I took my photos in full sun, which emphasizes the subtle sparkling of the cheek color. The blended color show here is, in my opinion, extraordinarily pretty. It's not too light, not too deep - simply a pretty, radiant pink.

I like it - a lot! I think the $14 price would encourage anyone to play - even if you don't need "yet another pink blush." It was my Valentine's Day present to myself.

I purchased mine at Ulta. You can also find it at Stila's Web site. I didn't see it at  Sephora.

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

Stila Positively Pink Set Giveaway Contest

I love my Stila makeup. When this Positively Pink Set ($18, $30 value) was made available, I purchased two. I was impressed that a portion of proceeds would be donated to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Plus, I thought the warm, wearable pinks looked perfect. I was right. I'm loving mine. Now one of you will have a chance to love yours.

Have I ever told you that one of the biggest reasons I love Stila is Sarah Lucero? I met her in New York. She is Stila's Celebrity Makeup Artist - and one of the sweetest people in beauty you will ever meet. Sarah was working at a media party to freshen our makeup - and introduced anyone who had been hiding in a closet to Stila. Just a few minutes in Sarah's chair, and I looked fabulous. She made me feel like a pampered celebrity. You ought to follow her on Twitter. Her "handle" is @stilaPROartist. She is a sweetie. She posts cool photos too, such as this one.

Back to the makeup. The whimsical set features a multicolored, embossed pressed powder palette with the pink ribbons that are emblematic of breast cancer causes, plus a deluxe-sized glossy Lip Glaze coordinate beautifully.  Although I purchased them in the fall, they are absolutely perfect spring shades.

The set contains the Positively Pink Cheek Palette and a Lip Glaze in Splendor, the latter a limited-edition shade designed for the set. I have one set to give away.

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.

Readers who are United States residents and also enter the Suave Beauty giveaway contest will receive a fourth entry.

The deadline for entries will be Saturday, February 9, 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!

P.S. There will be a flash sample giveaway this week. Stay in touch.

Photo courtesy of Sephora

Stila All Over Shimmer Liquid Luminizer - Swatched

I couldn't let the week go by without showing you the three glorious shades of Stila's All Over Shimmer Liquid Luminizer ($20). Maybe once you see them you'll want to enter this week's giveaway contest. The deadline is Saturday night.

This set grabbed me at Sephora online and wouldn't let go. As a total Stila fan, I wanted it immediately. While I was ordering my set, I decided to order a second, one for me, one for you - at least one of you.

This trio of trial-sized, skin-enhancing liquid shimmers will add a subtle touch of shimmer for a radiant glow. Ideal for all skin types, each formula contains a skin-protecting antioxidant and grape seed oil to condition and nourish the skin. Soft-focus pigments will help diminish the appearance of fine lines and skin imperfections while adding uplifting highlights. These wonderful liquids, like Armani's, can be used over your foundation or tinted moisturizer or mixed into your face lotion or favorite foundation for subtle luminescence.

The three liquid shimmers come boxed, but they aren't separated within the box by any partition. That struck me as odd, but it's a small matter unless packaging is critical to you. Each of the lovely shimmers will fit into a makeup bag with ease. If you don't want to shine at work, but need to glow at that after-work party, they are perfect take-alongs.

The Liquid Luminizers in the set come in three stunning shades: Pink Shimmer, Rose Gold Shimmer, and Bronze Shimmer. I took my swatch photos in full sun. Pink Shimmer is shown at the top of my arm, Rose Shimmer in the center, and Bronze Shimmer at the bottom.

I didn't blend them at all. I painted them onto my arm with their own brush applicators. In my opinion, all three shades are gorgeous. Pink Shimmer isn't really pink. It's a stunning champagne shade.  Rose Gold Shimmer is more peach than I had anticipated, but lust-worthy nonetheless. Bronze Shimmer is what I expected. It's a shade that everyone - from light skins to dark - will want to wear. All three are stunning when blended out on the skin - sheer and glowing.

I'm so glad I purchased this beautiful set, sight unseen. I trust Stila, and I've never been disappointed. If you don't trust your luck (I have only one to give away), you can order the Stila All Over Shimmer Liquid Luminizer set at Sephora. It's a limited edition, so don't let any grass grow under your mouse.

Update 5/24: Please do not leave your contest entry on this post. It must be on the giveaway contest post to be entered. Sorry if I created any confusion.

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

Stila All Over Shimmer Liquid Luminizer Giveaway Contest

Kapow! This new Stila All Over Shimmer Liquid Luminizer ($20) set grabbed me at Sephora online and wouldn't let go. As a total Stila lover (I think Stila is under-priced for the quality and doesn't get enough love from bloggers), I wanted it immediately. Not three days from my order processing date (not-so-subtle dig at Sephora)! While I was at it, I decided to order two, one for me, one for you - at least one of you.

This trio of trial-sized, skin-enhancing liquid shimmers will add a subtle touch of shimmer for a radiant glow. Ideal for all skin types, each formula contains a skin-protecting antioxidant and grape seed oil to condition and nourish the skin. Soft-focus pigments will help diminish the appearance of fine lines and skin imperfections while adding uplifting highlights. These wonderful liquids, like Armani's, can be used over your foundation or tinted moisturizer or mixed into your face lotion or favorite foundation for subtle luminescence.

The Liquid Luminizers in the set come in three stunning shades: Pink Shimmer, Rose Gold Shimmer, and Bronze Shimmer. That covers the landscape. If you know me, you know I flip over anything rose gold - makeup, jewelry, clothing, leather, you name it. An extra-added benefit? If you want to know the ingredients, Stila shares freely. Just go to this link. I love the Stila team. If you don't follow Sarah Lucero @StilaPROartist at Twitter, you should. She's "good people."

How can you enter to share the joy? To enter to win this 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 entrants 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 this evening, and you can simply retweet it to earn that second entry - if that's easier.

The deadline for entries will be Saturday, May 26, 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.

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

Photo courtesy of Sephora

Stila Love at First Blush Giveaway Contest

Congratulations to Stephanie Gladden!

Stila makeup always makes me happy, so I did a mental happy dance when I saw the limited-edition Love At First Blush Set ($20) at Sephora. What a value! The set contains an adorable multicolored powder blush paired with two deluxe-sized Lip Glazes - one in Bubble Gum and the other in Pinkle Twinkle. The names may be cutesy, but the colors are delightful.

The blush, embossed with hearts in three ultra-wearable muted shades of pink, offers a micro-fine powder with a velvety smooth finish and subtle shimmer for a natural looking blush. I have this blush, and I love it. After you apply your blush, brush on one of Stila's Lip Glaze shades for high shine and understated color to complete your spring look.

I have one set to give away. How can you enter this 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 don't, I can't notify you, which means you can't win - even if your number is drawn.

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 this evening, and you can simply retweet it to earn that second entry - if that's easier.

The deadline for entries will be Saturday, February 11, 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.

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

Photo courtesy of Sephora

Stila All Over Shimmer Powder in Kitten for Spring 2011

Next up in my Stila Spring 2011 hit parade is All Over Shimmer Powder in Kitten ($22). This duo highlighter includes Stila's iconic Kitten shade and a pink gold that glows. The name "Kitten" is misleading because you get not only Kitten with the compact, but also a gorgeous, unnamed pink gold. This is a duo that commands attention.

Intended to be an all-over shimmer powder, the multipurpose powder, inspired by light, instantly adds a fresh radiance wherever you apply it. The micro-fine pearls in the formula adhere to the skin nicely, leaving behind a creamy glow. Packaged in a convenient compact with a mirror, the duo can be used as an eye shadow, face and décolleté highlighter, and cheek color - anywhere you choose to apply it.

To show you how pretty both shades are, I quickly swatched and photographed them this weekend - on a day when we had exactly five minutes of morning sun. I applied both with a sponge-tipped applicator, and now I wish I had prepared a wider swatch of each for you. I used a sponge-tipped applicator designed for eye shadows, and I took my photo indoors.

I hope you can see that Kitten is gold, with a hint of bronze. It's a perfect shade for every skin type. Many of you know that; you made Kitten a best-seller! The golden pink below it on my arm is light and gorgeous. It reminds me of many of my favorite rose gold shades. I'll definitely be wearing both of these as highlighters and eye shadows. They are gorgeous. Having them both in one palette is a treat!

You can purchase Stila All Over Shimmer Powder in Kitten at Stila's Web site and Sephora, which doesn't give it "full name." Perhaps calling it simply a shimmer duo is more accurate. Check it out. Like Stila's other Spring 2011 introductions, it's a beauty.

Photo at top courtesy of Stila

Stila Coconut Crush Lip & Cheek Stain

Stila's newest crush, Coconut Crush Lip & Cheek Stain ($24), creates a beautiful bronze/rose gold shade for your lips and cheeks! This is a Lip & Cheek Stain I can love. The last Lip & Cheek Stain I tried, Açaí Crush Lip & Cheek Stain, lived up to its title: it stained. It was too dark and bright for my skin, and I couldn't get it off, no matter what I did. Coconut Crush is perfect. I love everything about it.

Lip & Cheek Stain creates a personalized blush and pout with one click of the pen, which sends a drop of product into the brush for application. The nourishing formula contains potent antioxidants; vitamins A, C, and E to moisturize; and coconut extract, which is known to slow the degeneration of collagen (supporting the skin's natural structure and slowing premature aging). Also, coconut is celebrated for its high levels of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. How about that? Pretty color that's good for you!

Coconut Crush creates a naturally beautiful, rosy-bronze glow. It warms the skin with its beautiful, subtle color. I swatched it without blending, which is why you see a little uneven color in my photo at right. I took the photo indoors during the five minutes of sun we saw on one recent day. Isn't this a gorgeous shade? It's a blend of colors. I hope you can see the rose in it. The rose differentiates it from many of the bronze shades available to warm our skin. I adore this Lip & Cheek Stain. (Note to self: Give the Açaí Crush to a friend who will appreciate it. Now that I have Coconut Crush, I won't ever reach for it.)

Do I need a second? I think so - I'll order one on my next Stila order. I bought my Coconut Crush Lip & Cheek Stain from Stila online. You can also find Stila at Sephora, SkinStore, and Beauty.com.

Photo at top courtesy of Stila

Stila Make Me Blush Set from Sephora Giveaway Contest

Congratulations to long-time reader and subscriber, Anna! She won.

I love Stila's Make Me Blush Palette so much, I decided to give one away. This week's giveaway contest is for Sephora's Make Me Blush trio, which includes the Make Me Blush Palette, inspired by Valentine's Day conversation hearts, plus two juicy Lip Glazes, one in Hugs (creamy rose) and one in Kisses (sparkling, sheer red). Both Lip Glazes coordinate beautifully with the blush. You will be pretty in pink if you win!

I think this is an awesome set. Make sure to look at my swatches of the blush here.

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). 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 5, 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, but I can do Click-n-Ship!

Good luck!

Photo courtesy of Sephora

Stila Make Me Blush Palette

Stila's new Make Me Blush Palette ($14) is a steal! The multicolored blush, inspired by Valentine's Day conversation hearts (like little candies), has a top layer that was sprayed with gold shine for a pretty visual effect in the palette.

The gold is stunning on the cheeks when mixed with the pink and coral tints in the palette. It's ashamed that the gold is superficial and disappears with a few brush strokes because it adds a complexity to the colors that's amazing. Note to self: Remember to use a gold highlighter over the blush or mixed on my blush brush.

Once the gold is gone, you'll be left with a pressed powder blush that will add warmth; sheer, soft color; allover radiance; and luminosity to your face. It's a beautiful color - love it - but I was so taken with the gold mixed in. I hope Stila can find a way to package that gold for the future.

Make Me Blush is great for all skin tones. The creamy, micro-fine formula is beautifully blendable. It instantly enhances my complexion with its pinky peach color. I couldn't resist showing you two swatches: one with the gold mixed in and one without. My photo at right was taken indoors during a brief snatch of sunshine I was able to grab. At the top, you see a swatch, applied with a sponge-tipped applicator, across all of the shades in the palette, including the gold. Isn't it pretty? Below is a swatch of the blended pink and coral shades. They are luscious. I blended them equally, but I could have worked to get more pink or more peach, had I desired a certain effect.

The Make Me Blush Palette is obviously very popular. At the moment, it's sold out at Stila's Web site, where I purchased mine. However, Sephora has a deal. You can get a Make Me Blush Set for $20. The palette at Sephora doesn't appear to have the little conversations in the gold hearts, but they are just icing on the cake. With the set, you get two Stila Lip Glazes to go with the palette.

Photo at top courtesy of Stila

Stila Holiday Blockbuster Set Givaway Winner

Congratulations to Dlori! Diane won the Stila Holiday Blockbuster Set! Diane is a makeup junkie, just like many of us! She's also a sweet pen pal. She has been notified by e-mail.

When I tally votes, it takes me a little time. I go through the comments to assign vote numbers (when you tell me you tweeted or follow - I just go look it up to check - you make it easy for me). Then, I check my list against the two follower lists exported from my subscription follows (through Google) and Twitter follows. It's all very complicated, but I have it down to a science. I usually end up with entry numbers that exceed the number of comments (I add the extras onto the end of the list), and then I go to random.org.

What isn't easy is the personal aspect of selecting only one winner for most contests. I LOVE reading your comments, and I appreciate your kind words about the blog, best wishes, and notes about makeup! On any day I don't feel like writing, usually worn out after work, I read a few comments, and my energy returns 10 times over. I can't tell you how much I appreciate you!

I thought I would show you that #84, which happened to be Diane, won this morning. Random.org is so easy, you just put in the beginning number (#1) and the end number, and it selects a random number as the winner. Go try it if you ever need your own "Ouija board" to make a decision. :)

Diane is going to love this set. Who could want for makeup with so many colors available? OK, that was a silly question - all of us makeup addicts could. There's always the perfect color right around the corner, and some of us are "collectors."

Don't forget my weekend giveaway for the coveted Giorgio Armani Beauty Eyes to Kill Eyeshadow in Copper! Just scroll down and enter before 5:00 pm ET today. After that contest ends, I'll start another one tonight so I can share the love - and thank you for being the best readers in the world!

Photo at top courtesy of Stila

Stila Holiday Blockbuster Set Giveaway Contest

Congratulations to Dlori, the winner of this incredible set!There were supposed to be only 50 of these available. Naturally, I ordered one for a giveaway contest! When I got the e-mail from Stila, I posted the set immediately. Later that day, when I saw it was sold out, I removed my announcement from the blog. Today, I found the Holiday Blockbuster Set at Costco for $20, $8 less than Stila charged for it. Nice deal! I'm not a big fan of exclusivity or deprivation, so I'm pleased that more women can get their hands on it. This set was pegged at a $450 value by Stila. I'm not sure about that, but it's certainly worth well over $100.

The eye shadows in this set remind me of the Bobbi Brights Eye Palette because of the small circles of color on the top level, along with circles of lip color. You need to know that the colors are not half as bright as they appear in this Stila photo. They are all attractive, and I am glad I purchased one of these for myself today at Costco. There's literally an eye shadow and lip color for every occasion.

Here's what comes in the multi-level set.

• 30 eye shadows
• 15 lip colors
• 3 cheek colors
• 1 highlighter
• 1 bronzer
• 1 mini eyeliner
• 1 mini lip liner
• 1 sponge-tipped applicators
• 1 mini lip brush
• 1 mini blush brush

I have one of these beauties to give away - the one I purchased from Stila. The Costco set is housed in one of those deadly plastic clamshells that I can never open without cutting myself, so I won't wish that on you.

To enter to win this week's giveaway contest, just leave a comment here once. After you comment, feel free to e-mail bestthingsinbeautycontests@gmail.com and identify your comment. You can never be too careful about sharing your e-mail address on a blog, so I would follow this second step if I were you (an alternative is to code your e-mail, e.g., myname at gmail dot com, in your comment). That's what most of you do.

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 soon, 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).

The deadline for entries will be Saturday, November 27, 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.

Here is more "fine print." 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 palette for overseas shipment - it's amazingly expensive to do so. If it's lost or stolen in transit, I won't be able to replace it with another palette for an overseas winner. We'll see how this works. My shipping issues have occurred when I've shipped overseas - the packages to the U.S. and Canada always arrive without incident. I'll do my best on this end; let's see if your mail services do right by you on the other end if we have an overseas winner.

Good Luck!

Photo courtesy of Stila

Stila 24kt Gloss Goodness

Turning to Stila makeup I adore, Stila's 24kt Gloss ($25) is a must-have. You don't even have to be a lip gloss addict like me to love it.

You can add some sizzle to your look with Stila’s 24kt lip gloss! It's infused with genuine 24kt gold, but don't get too excited - no goldsmith is going to take it for meltdown. This non-sticky formula gives you a vibrant, glistening, gorgeous smile. The security guards at work always comment on my smile. I love the guys (they are so considerate, and they make me feel safe), so why not smile when you greet them? Apparently, not everyone does.

The smooth texture is loaded with moisture-locking ingredients, including vitamin E to nourish and condition and vitamins A and C to provide antioxidant protection and keep your lips hydrated. The 24kt gold powder nourishes and protects the lips and gives you a beautiful golden shimmer. This "gold thing is happening" in beauty land. Gold is turning up in skin care and makeup. I'm not sure it's as exciting as jewelry, but who cares? It's pretty.

Adorned with a genuine handmade Indian bindi, which makes the tube very classy, this glimmering gloss can be worn alone for a natural shine or over your favorite lipstick for a dazzling effect.

Here is an arm photo of my two newest shades: Golden Charm and Vintage Merlot. I purchase most of the 24kt glosses. They are "proven" in my book, with their gorgeous color, nice feel on my lips, good staying power, and luxurious look. Sorry that my application wasn't quite even. I'm manic as I rush to get photos before the sun goes down. The Gold Charm looks fabulous over any lipstick, particularly ones that need a lift (read matte or satin finish). I can wear Vintage Merlot without a lipstick underneath it. It's nice for lip color on the run because I can apply gloss without a mirror and know that I won't end up looking like a kiss-smeared barmaid - or worse.

Stila offers both of these shades in a value set, the 24kt Luxe Lip Gloss Collection ($30), which I also bought. I wanted to have one of each of these for my makeup bag. They are that nice! They also come off when I want them to disappear, unlike my newest Lip & Cheek Stain (grin).

You can purchase Stila products at Stila's Web site, Sephora, SkinStore, and Beauty.com. These are worth checking out, and that set is a great value, particularly today as Sephora's and Beauty.com's F&F discount events wind down.

Photo at top courtesy of Stila

Stila Açaí Crush Lip & Cheek Stain

Recently, I purchased Stila's Açaí Crush Lip & Cheek Stain ($24). It sounded fun, and I love Stila makeup. Here's what enticed me.

We can all use a little boost over the holidays...and thanks to our latest addition to the Stila Crush family, which comes infused with Açaí, one of the richest super-fruits in the world, you can get the boost you need with a click of a pen. Known for its amazing healthy benefits, Açaí is celebrated for its high levels of antioxidants and immunity-boosting powers. It also helps protect cells from free radical damage to keep skin looking younger longer.

Our latest Crush delivers a rich, vibrant red color, a not-so-subtle, but still perfectly sheer stain that is super long-lasting. Açaí Crush also happens to be super smart too. The formula reacts with the pH level of the skin to create the perfect pop of color on the lips and the cheeks that is uniquely you.

Infuse your holidays with a nourishing color fix that has incredible staying power. This is a must-have Lip & Cheek Stain for a beautiful, naturally rosy flush.

Sounds fabulous, right? I love Stila - I just bought a box full of new items, and I'm very pleased with all of them, with one exception. I learned that some descriptions have clues, hints that you should heed. Now that I've tried Açaí Crush Lip & Cheek Stain, I can tell you that Stila wasn't kidding when they used these terms.

• Not-so-subtle
• Super long-lasting
• Incredible staying power

I think this stain was made for: 1) women who have trouble with blushers that disappear a few hours after application, 2) those who want a "serious" stain on their lips and/or cheeks, and 3) beauties with dark complexions. I match none of these criteria.

Let's take a look at the "kapow" color. On my arm at right, I swatched Açaí Crush with no blending - just applied straight to my arm with the brush - and blended below. You can see that it's very dark and bright, something I discovered after applying it to my cheeks. It's too bright for me. It's also way too long-lasting.

To demonstrate, I thoroughly washed it off with soap and water, giving my arm a gentle scrub. The photo of the result is at left. I had blended it with my finger, and my finger was still bright pink, which you can see below. Next, I used long-wear makeup remover that wouldn't touch it. Then I used an exfoliating body scrub. I was able to remove most of the blended stain, but the pink stripe is still on my arm and is likely to be for days. The things I do for you!

The Stila Web site provides tips for application, and they recommend that you use your fingers or Stila's #27 brush to apply it evenly. I wouldn't recommend that you use your fingers unless you don't mind looking like you were fingerpainting that day). I would also caution you to avoid using a brush that you love - you will dye it bright pink. Interestingly, there are no removal tips.

My final photo was taken after I had tried all of the measures mentioned above to remove it. A little lasting flush on your cheeks or lips isn't so bad. Having one on your arm and fingers isn't nearly as attractive. Whatever you do, don't get it on your clothing!

Need a blush that won't melt? Lip color that stains? Have a dark complexion? This is your makeup! What do you think? Anyone going to try it?

You can purchase Stila products at Stila's Web site, Sephora, SkinStore, and Beauty.com.

Photo at top courtesy of Stila

Stila One Step Makeup PrimeColor

Stila recently introduced One Step Makeup PrimerColor ($22), a single product that Stila says works as a primer, eye shadow, highlighter, lip color, cheek color, and bronzer. The e-mail introducing it had said, "Four products, one amazing price." That's a tall order, but I took the bait.

Here is what prompted me to order it - twice!

One Step PrimeColor is formulated with Stila's Youth Revival Bio-Available Mineral Complex that is said to read and react to your skin zone-by-zone, visibly priming, balancing, correcting, and optimizing for a supremely flawless finish.

• Exclusive mineral and silicone complex
• Mineral pigment, primer, problem solving, and mess free!
• Water-resistant formula perfect for humid weather
• Adjustable and buildable coverage
• Shades include matte and shimmer finishes
• Reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles
• Hydrates and balances
• High definition and long-wearing
• Paraben-free and fragrance-free

When I read all that, I was mesmerized. Unfortunately, the romance faded - fast. I have a contrarian's view of Stila's new One Step Makeup PrimeColor. I know that it has received the equivalent of a blogger coronation, but I don't understand the hype.

One Step Makeup PrimeColor is available in six shades - from Kitten (nude pink shimmer) to Bronze Babe (clearly bronze). First I ordered Kitten. I'm a Kitten fan like millions of other women. Once it came, I tried to use it as a primer, thinking it would add luminosity to my face. I mixed it with my moisturizer; I used it alone. The effects were underwhelming. Then I used it as an eye shadow. Success! It served nicely as a cream shadow. On my lips, though, it was ghastly. I looked like a throwback to the days when pale, frosty, nude lips were all the rage.

At that point, I thought, "OK, this product has some utility; maybe I should have ordered darker colors." So I threw good money after bad and ordered Rosie Posie and Per Suede, knowing that I would never be able to use them on my eyelids. I was thinking that they would make good lip/cheek colors. They are very nice on my cheeks. I don't like them on my lips - boring. They aren't even plausible primers or illuminators.

As a rule, I love Stila's makeup. I have so many of their products, and I love them all - until now. What's the deal? One Step Makeup PrimeColor is, in my opinion, a single-use, not multi-use, color. If you want a cream blusher, there are some really nice shades. If you want an eye shadow, you are limited unless your skin is very dark. For lips? Stila offers better options.

Still interested? You can purchase Stila's One Step Makeup PrimeColor at Stila's Web site and Sephora.

Photo courtesy of Stila

Stila Good to Glow Giveaway Contest Winner

Congratulations to Marcia F! She won the Stila Good to Glow set! Marcia has been notified by e-mail. Random.org selected her from the many entrants, after I counted and added in Twitter follower entries.

Good to Glow is a set of two subtle, illuminating finishing powders that add shimmer and warmth to your complexion and give your skin a flawless finish. The hand-milled, baked formula goes on silky smooth and is offered in Bronze and Rose Gold hues, both of which are perfect for any skin tone.

I love the Rose Gold shade so much, I've bought four of them! It's a perfect light pink-toned, shimmering golden highlighter - and not too shimmery. The bronze shade is a good bronzer on my light skin. On darker skin, it will work as a highlighter.

I had a blast in New York yesterday at the New York Fashion Week Media Mixer! Stila's Sarah Lucero, celebrity makeup artist extraordinaire, touched up my makeup at the party. She made me look glamorous! And I got to talk makeup with her for a few minutes. What fun! I'll be sharing some news this week.

Thanks for everyone who entered! We will start another giveaway contest tonight. Come back!

Photo courtesy of Sephora

Stila Good to Glow Giveaway Contest

Stila's Good to Glow is a set of two subtle, illuminating finishing powders that add shimmer and warmth to your complexion and give your skin a flawless finish. The hand-milled, baked formula goes on silky smooth and is offered in Bronze and Rose Gold hues, both of which are perfect for any skin tone.

I love the Rose Gold shade so much, I've bought four of them! It's a perfect light pink-toned, shimmering golden highlighter. The bronze shade is a good bronzer on my light skin. On darker skin, it will work as a highlighter. When I saw the Good to Glow sets (a $64 value) on sale, I bought two - one for me and one for a giveaway.

How can you enter? Just e-mail bestthingsinbeautycontests@gmail.com and put Stila in the subject line. Please let me know in your e-mail if you use any Stila products. If you want a second entry, just follow BTiBeauty on Twitter. All existing Twitter followers who e-mail will automatically receive a second entry. If you use a different name on Twitter, make sure to tell me in your e-mail.

The contest deadline will be Friday, February 12, at midnight. I'll select the winner using a random number generator. I'll even send Good to Glow anywhere in the world, so you can enter no matter where you live!

I'll be posting this contest at Free!Grechen, my fun giveaway site partner. Good Luck!

Photo courtesy of Sephora

The Stila 2009 Holiday Gift Collection

Stila has assembled an irresistible collection of holiday gifts. You can see the collection at Stila or Sephora. Each item is specially priced, and those items available at Sephora come with a 20% discount during Friends & Family.

The limited-edition Gift of Appreciation ($38), shown here, is a makeup powerhouse. I particularly love the Rose Gold Illuminating Finishing Powder and the Eye Shadow Trio in Gold Glow - both included. Just click on the link to see all of the items included. Stila calls this gift a thank you for your love and loyalty.

The 24K Luxe Lip Gloss Collection ($30) is on my Christmas list. Doesn't some uninspired person always ask you what you want for Christmas? You just have to make a list! I think these lip glosses are gorgeous. They are the bomb, as my younger friends say!





Are you a Lip Glaze gal? Check out this set of eight minis for $25. It includes four new shades: Marmalade (sheer peach with pink and while pearl), Pinkle Twinkle (sheer pink with pink and multicolor sparkle), Plum Fairy (sheer plum with pink pearl), and Candy (sheer pink-coral with rainbow sparkle).

There's so much more to love. Just go to Stila or Sephora to see these incredible value sets. They are a Stila lover's delight.

Photos courtesy of Sephora and Stila

Stila Keeps Rolling Out the Deals

Another great deal from Stila! A 24K Luxe Gloss Collection for $30.

Infused with genuine 24kt gold (quite the trend), this non-sticky formula is loaded with moisture-locking ingredients, including vitamin E to nourish and condition and vitamins A and C to provide antioxidant protection. The colors? All nice.

• Radiant Sunset – a mid-tone red
• Precious Coral – a light peachy coral
• Golden Charm – a warm sheer gold
• Vintage Merlot – a deep berry

I expect this set to sell out. Order soon at Stila's Web site if you are interested.

Photo courtesy of Stila