Chanel Ombre Essentielle Soft Touch Eyeshadow in Gris Exquis from Aquarelles de Chanel Collection

Here is the single Soft Touch Eyeshadow that is part of the Aquarelles de Chanel Collection that just arrived at Neiman Marcus Tysons Galleria. Gris Exquis ($28.50) is a medium-toned grey, perfect to create a smoky eye. Use it dry as your shadow, then apply it with a damp liner brush for your eyeliner. It can serve double duty.

Soft Touch Eyeshadow, a Chanel classic, is an ultra-fine powder eye shadow that's "foolproof" in its application and fabulous in its range of matte, satin, and shimmer finishes. The versatile formula can be applied dry for subtle shading, or dampened for more intense color, and the complementary shades available can be blended with one another to lighten or deepen tone.

Gris Exquis is matte to my eye. I don't see even a smidgen of shimmer or gleam in the color on my skin. It can be used easily to create a smoky eye - from light to dramatic - depending on your preference and application technique. My photos were taken in full sun (oops except for the shadows). Any glimmers you see are reflected sunlight.

I swatched with a sponge-tipped applicator and applied the shadow fairly lightly. If you use a brush, the tone will be lighter. You can build your desired level of "smoke." Of course, you'll use a brush!

Gris Exquis won't set your world ablaze. It's not unique, and if you like grey shadows, you probably have several that are similar in color. That's not to say it isn't pretty. I just don't want to leave you with the impression that it's a rush-out-to-buy shade.

I purchased it because many of the greys that have attracted me recently are shimmering shades. I want to play with a more matte look for fall and winter. I usually like a little shimmer on my eyes. I have to be more flexible!

The Aquarelles de Chanel Collection is available at select Neiman Marcus doors. I understand it will also be available at Chanel online this week or next.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Chanel Ombres Tissées Iridescent Effects Eyes in Beiges from Aquarelles de Chanel Collection

After much anticipation, I got my hands on a couple of pieces from Chanel's Aquarelles de Chanel Collection, which arrived at Neiman Marcus Tysons Galleria today. Chanel Ombres Tissées Iridescent Effects Eyes in Beiges ($75) was on my wish list, so I took a few photos of the compact in the store and then started swatching.

The highlighting powder shades in the compact are very light. On top of that, it's very dark outside because it has rained on and off all day. I couldn't get decent swatch photos in the store, but I got "as good as it gets" when I got home.

To show you that you can use all three shades blended as a facial highlighter, I applied the powder with a sponge-tipped applicator and ran the applicator across all three shades in the compact, light beige, gold, and pink. You will see that this powder isn't much darker, when blended, than my fair skin tone.

The shades apply with a lot of sparkle. I am not sure yet whether that sparkle will disappear once the top layer of the compact is worn off. Early indications (from use) is that it is an overspray and that the sparkles may thin out or disappear over time. When I used the powder for the first time, swiping across it with a sponge and brush in the store, I had powder particles flying everywhere. It settled down a bit after I wore through part of the top layer.

Then I swatched the colors individually. They are all highlighting shades with very subtle color. I'm not sure that I could get great swatch photos on a sunny day. On my arm at right, the light beige shade is shown at the top, the gold in the middle, and the pink at the bottom. They will all light up your look, but without imparting a lot of color. I'm sorry for the grey tones of my photos that resulted from the heavy cloud cover. It was the best I could do today, and I knew you wanted to see the collection's centerpiece. I'll update this feature tomorrow if I can get better photos in sunshine.

How will Ombres Tissées Iridescent Effects Eyes in Beiges look on your skin and eyelids? If you have fair skin, as I do, the shade(s) will give you an iridescent glow. As skin tones darken (from mine), I believe Ombres Tissées in Beiges will offer a more obvious highlighting effect and possibly more color. No testers arrived, and the store does not expect to receive them with this collection, so you'll have to buy on faith.

Ombres Tissées in Beiges was billed as a pink-peach highlighter created for Chanel's Spring/Summer 2011 Haute Couture Show. Peter Philips created several new, limited-edition pieces and reached back into Chanel's beautiful line for others. The collection arrived at the store, with this compact named Iridescent Effects Eyes. I think it's a multipurpose product, although I do worry about little sparkles falling in my eyes if I use the shades as highlighting eye shadows.

In addition to this compact, the store received the two Joues Contraste blushes (Pink Cloud and Rose Pétale), Rouge Coco Shine in the Royallieu, and Ombre Essentielle in Gris Exquis. I can't tell you whether Les Vernis in Tendress arrived. We lost track of it in the excitement of the makeup!

Update 8/4: As I expected, my swatch photo in sun wasn't much better. This morning, the sun has flirted with us, making a few quick appearances. I applied each shade extremely heavily with a sponge-tipped applicator to try to show you the colors. This is the result.

Photos (such as they are) by Best Things in Beauty

Giorgio Armani Beauty Hot Collection Rouge d'Armani

The new, limited-edition Rouge d'Armani Hot Collection ($30) lipsticks from Giorgio Armani Beauty are "the new pink radiance." Six new shades offer you the opportunity to explore a palette of faceted pinks, all with a unique light-reflecting tint that produces a transparent wet finish. The shades flirt with raspberry and coral, reinterpret nasturtium and rosewood, and culminate in an explosively bright fuchsia.

I'm a little late to this party, which started in mid-June. I wasn't sure that these bright, vibrant shades would be my best. I wasn't able to resist for long. If it's Armani, I'm going to want it. I selected two shades and, luckily, purchased them when Giorgio Armani Beauty offered a 20% discount last week. Discounts can push me right over the edge of indecision!

I absolutely love the transparency of these long-lasting lip colors and the "wet" finish promised by Armani. It's different - and pretty. I purchased #521, shown at the top of my arm in the swatch photo, and #524, shown below. My photo at right was taken under cloud cover that was just starting to break up.

I hope you can see that #521 is a warmer pink than #524. Both are lovely on the lips. Bright, but not too bright, and absolutely perfect for sangria season.

The photo at left isn't a great photo, but is included just to show you why I no longer use pesticides and herbicides on my property. Can you see the little brown bunny to the right of my arm? He's just above the shade line, barely visible in the photo. I saw him feasting on clover. Too bad I wasn't taking a Rouge Bunny Rouge swatch photo!

Next time you are near an Armani counter, stop by to see the Hot Collection. You can find it at Armani Beauty's Web site and all Armani counters.

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

Tarte emphasEYES Waterproof Amazonian Clay Cream Eyeshadow & Brush

There are days when I can barely contain my excitement. The day these four Tarte emphasEYES Waterproof Amazonian Clay Cream Eyeshadow & Brushes ($22.80) arrived was one of them. They are only available at QVC, but I received mine from Tarte. I am one lucky lady! Perhaps my love for cream shadows - and Tarte - has become legendary. These are among the best cream shadows I'm wearing. They are every bit as exciting as some of the makeup that's been getting all the attention in the last two weeks.

I've been using these rave-worthy shimmering treats on my eyes for a couple of weeks. The five shades were launched over a two-month period. I didn't understand how they escaped my notice at Tarte and Sephora until I discovered they were exclusive to QVC. Note to self: Read e-mails.

We'll have to chat with QVC because the little swatch photos do not do these beauties justice. They look dark and a little imposing. You have to click on the little square shade representations to flip the large photo to one that shows the colors in the pot in a more flattering light. Look at Seashell Pink. It looks brown in the little square at this link. Click on it, and you see the "real-life" look at right.

Each of the four colors I've been wearing is an everyday delight. I got a pretty decent full-sun photo of the shades before I dug into them. They are shown with Slate at top left, Moss at top right, Beach Bronze at bottom right, and Seashell Pink at lower left. Every one of these shades falls into my "love zone." They have exquisite shimmering color without being too conspicuous. I couldn't be happier with them!

For my arm photos, all taken in full sun, I used Tarte's fabulous cream shadow brush - the one that accompanies each emphasEYES Waterproof Amazonian Clay Cream Eyeshadow - and swatched in this order, top to bottom: Seashell Pink, Slate, Moss, and Beach Bronze. I applied them heavily so that I would get adequate colors for the photos. On my lids. I apply them with less oomph.

Seashell Pink has a tiny blue hue in it. It's a complex shade. Slate is hard for me to describe. Despite its name, which implies a blue-grey shade, I think it's a gorgeous taupe. Moss is moss green (or khaki), one of my favorite shades for eye shadow or clothing. Beach Bronze is bronze and beautiful.

These pigmented shadows stay put forever. Naturally, they sport some of Tarte's good-for-you signature ingredients. Micronized Amazonian clay intensifies the color pigments, while working to nourish skin, reduce surface oil, and improve overall texture for a beautiful application. Thanks to a botanical blend of natural plant waxes, the shadow glides on smoothly and forms an impermeable layer that protects against sweat, tears, and creasing for hours of wear time (up to 18 for me). I love their non-creasing quality. The colors do not migrate into the crease, as some well-regarded creams do.

Not only is this cream shadow super long-wearing, it works to infuse our delicate eyelids with Amazonian clay, aloe leaf extract, beeswax, and vitamins A and E. Because they are Tarte, the shadows are formulated without parabens, sodium laurel sulfate, mineral oil, petrolatum, synthetic fragrance, or phthalates.

Tarte has a special event coming up at QVC. On July 2, in four time periods (Midnight-1:00 am, Noon-1:00 pm, 5:00-6:00 pm, and 9:00 to 10:00 pm ET, there will be features on Tarte's high-performance naturals. With all of those times available Saturday, you should be able to tune in, if not on your television, then online as I do.

In the meantime, pop over to QVC to see these fabulous cream shadows. If you buy more than one, which I would find easy to do, you get a $3.00 discount on each additional shade - and save on shipping and handling. Wish you could tell them Best Things in Beauty sent you!

Photos at top courtesy of QVC; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Update Your Makeup for Summer - Interview with Ivan Castro, Le Métier de Beauté Global Key Artist

Yesterday, I had a an incredible opportunity to spend some time on the phone with Ivan Castro, Global Key Artist with Le Métier de Beauté. Ivan and I talked about summer makeup trends - color and application tips. Before we get to his ideas for your smashing summer, let me tell you a few things about him.

Ivan is based in Los Angeles and has worked as a makeup artist for over 10 years. The lucky ladies near the West Coast get to see him most often. Before joining Le Métier de Beauté, Ivan worked backstage at Marchesa and was a well-known artist behind the scenes at Los Angeles Fashion Week. He helps celebrities get ready for the red carpet, from fashion designer Keren Craig of Marchesa to Rihanna (no intro needed).

Ivan's beauty expertise and tips have been featured by numerous media outlets, including the Los Angeles Times, ABC News, Newsday, and Philadelphia Style. Yesterday was my first opportunity to chat with Ivan, and now I'm privileged to join those well-known sources by sharing Ivan's makeup wisdom and color tips for your summer.

Just seconds into our conversation, I wished we could have talked face to face - over a counter full of testers - playing with color to illustrate his ideas. His sensitivity to a woman's individuality was immediately apparent as he talked about his approach to makeup. Ivan is most definitely not one of those paint-by-numbers artists. One of the first things he told me was that women fear makeup artists see their flaws at first glance. Not true, he protested! A good artist sees the highlights - a woman's best features - and immediately wants to enhance them. As I asked him questions, I learned that he's reluctant to prescribe. Like all great artists, he knows that no single look is right for everyone.

Now that I've told you Ivan doesn't notice flaws, he will notice one that's correctable - when a woman is not taking good care of her skin. Our skin is the canvas for our makeup, just like a fine painting. If you want your makeup to look good, your skin has to look good. I wholeheartedly agree, one reason why I take time out from our makeup love fests to tell you about skin care. Here's a news flash. We have something special to anticipate. Le Métier de Beauté will be introducing skin care in late summer - probably September. Are you as excited as I am? That launch will be momentous.

We talked about foundation. Women have different needs for color and coverage. On the West Coast, Ivan sees a lot of women with tan bodies and pale faces. They look like mismatched postcards in scrapbooks (my words, not his). He tries to use foundation to even them out, using it to give the face, neck, and décolletté a unified look. Before he does, he often asks his clients, "Do you feel prettier when you look light or tan?" Then he uses one of Le Métier de Beauté's fabulous foundations to enhance the canvas.

Peau Vierge Anti-Aging Complexe is Le Métier de Beauté's newest foundation. It does double duty as skin care and color. This luxurious, tinted treatment fluid provides a sheer wash of flawless, luminous, and lightweight coverage. Peau Vierge feels like your second skin with a gossamer-like texture. Light-diffusing pigments help fade away lines and instantly impart a renewed radiance and healthy appearance. Peau Vierge provides SPF 20 to guard against the damaging effects of the sun and retinol in a Syntoc Actif delivery system that helps it penetrate more effectively. Packed with other moisturizing, calming, and protective ingredients, like vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, chamomile, and green tea, it's a marvel of modern makeup technology. He loves using it and finds it especially perfect for summer.

Ivan said that some women want more coverage, and Classic Flawless Finish Foundation suits them perfectly. The silky, featherweight, oil-free formula captures the luminosity of perfect skin, evens out skin tone, and blurs imperfections for a beautiful, natural finish. Ivan described Classic Flawless Finish as a medium-to-full coverage foundation that provides a beautiful finish, not matte, not ultra dewy - just perfect. It's available in 12 shades with a variety of undertones (we don't all have to be yellow). Ivan recommends applying it with Le Métier de Beauté's gorgeous Kabuki Brush. He suggests using a very small amount of Classic Flawless Finish and buffing it into the skin with the Kabuki Brush. That technique will yield a look that's actually flawless.

Whichever foundation you choose (there's a tinted moisturizer too), during the summer, make sure to use the least amount of coverage that makes you comfortable. That will give you a natural look that's pleasing to the eye, whether you are at an outdoor wedding or playing golf.

Now that we've prepped the canvas, where do we go with color this summer? To the Mediterranean, of course! Without leaving home, we can bring the elegance and beauty of the islands, oceanfront, and sea to our lives with Le Métier de Beauté color. The Penelope Kaleidoscope Eye Kit will give you a perfect pop of color for summer. Penelope captures all of the beauty of the Mediterranean panorama with its four opulent eye shadow shades, Blonde Amber, Pale Satin Amethyst, Bronze Topaz, and Black Emerald. Ivan said you can use these popular colors one by one or layered (the Le Métier de Beauté Couches de Colour way) for a wash of color that's perfect for this summer's best look. He loves soft lavender, bronze, and coral - great shades for summer - making Penelope the perfect eye palette. It provides every shade you need to update your eye's wardrobe in just one kit.

On the lips? Go natural for day with Dustin Lujan's Écumes D’or Kaleidoscope Lip Kit or wear a pop of hot color at night with Ken's Kissable Koral. Ivan shared a tip for using hot, bold colors for summer without venturing too far into a full-force movie star look. Use the lipstick as a stain, blotting it into your lips for a tint of color and then following with lip gloss to achieve a Creamsicle look. Use the vibrant fuschia Paris Color Core Moisture Stain Lipstick as your stain and top it with Vanilla Rose lip gloss (listed as Vanilla Crème at Neiman Marcus Web site). Or use Riviera (bright orange) or Ken's Kissable Koral and top it with the same gloss. Instant glamour! I liked this idea and plan to drag out a bright lipstick today to create this look myself. Maybe I'll get brave and try my Ken's Kissable Koral!

I asked Ivan how we can update our makeup look for summer without breaking the bank. He said to focus on the eyes or lips, not both. Add a pop of shadow, one with high sheen to glide over your eyelid, and wear a minimal lip for day. I asked about fabulous summer eye shades. He likes True Colour Eyeshadow in Spicy, a beautiful bronze that looks good on everyone. He also recommends Plum True Colour Eyeshadow, a violet that is sheer on the lids and can be layered over any other shadow to enliven it. He mentioned that Innocence, Plum, and Lapis are meant to be used over more neutral colors to jazz up your look.

We talked about how to look naturally pretty, not over-done, during the summer. Ivan suggests switching from black mascara to brown. A look he likes starts with a natural skin base, followed by Spicy and topped with Innocence, then accented with Tamarack Dualistic Eye Pencil on the inside of the eyes to give a little sparkle - but not too much. Brownish Black Anamorphic Lash Mascara finishes the look.

Ivan also recommends using Le Métier de Beauté's colored mascaras for summer's fun alternative to black. He doesn't want to see mascara overtake a woman's eyes, particularly at outdoor events. He recommends we try Aubergine for blue eyes or Midnight Blue for brown eyes. The combination of the mascaras and your own lashes will give a tint that's extremely flattering. I'll show you later today, so come back!

He also loves the look of Le Métier de Beauté's Crème Fresh Tints for cheeks. Natural color that melts in the skin (no pun intended), Crème Fresh Tints are among my favorite cream blushes. Ivan recommends them because they provide a nice glow that's more flattering in daylight than metallic or sparkly cheek colors. There's a shade for you. See my feature on the newest of these wonderful blushes here.

We finished up with the question I get from many readers: How do I keep my makeup in place during the summer months, with heat and moisture working against me? Ivan said that women don't seem to like using powder (there are some serious misconceptions), but it’s really necessary in the summer. Use loose powder to set your makeup. If you apply it correctly, you won't lose your glow. He recommends Classic Flawless Finish Loose Powder. Blot it on with a sponge or puff, particularly if you're oily, or the Powder Brush. He suggests using loose powder over eye shadow, your finished face, even your lipstick. For an extremely long-lasting lip, use lip liner over your entire lip. Follow with loose powder, then lipstick. Blot, then apply more lipstick, more loose powder, and top with lip gloss. He laughed as he said, "Your lip color will stay put for a very long time."

Suddenly, our time was up. Someone else had reserved our conference line, and we had to say goodbye. Thank you, Ivan! I'm looking forward to meeting you in person some day soon.

I'm extremely envious of the West Coast gals who see Ivan frequently. When you get the chance, make an appointment to see him at an event. Even if he's not available when you're ready to update your makeup for summer, head over to your closest Le Métier de Beauté counter. Everyone who works with the line is amazingly talented. With Ivan's tips and your own preferences, you'll find a summer look you love.

Photos courtesy of Le Métier de Beauté and Neiman Marcus

Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Finishing Powder in Bronze

Tarte's new Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Finishing Powder in Bronze ($28) is goof-proof! Want a bronzer you can't overdo? Check! Want a bronzer that will leave you looking like you had a week at the beach, without the expense? Check! Prefer to use makeup that's good for your skin? Check! Tarte has you covered.

Like the original, this micronized clay finishing powder mattifies the skin, minimizes the appearance of pores, and replenishes all skin types, while adding a natural touch of bronze to your complexion. This silky smooth finishing powder glides on evenly and imparts a healthy, natural warmth. The skin-smart Amazonian clay, nature's perfect ingredient, acts as a total skin balancer by reducing dryness and flakiness, improving clarity and texture, and removing surface oil to mattify skin for a soft and flawless lit-from-within finish. I know it seems counterintuitive that the powder could leave a matte finish while giving you a glow, but it manages - somehow. It even works to replenish and rehydrate the skin, with Tarte's Amazonian clay, natural pigments, and skinvigorating ingredients. It's formulated without mineral oil, parabens, petrolatum, phthalates, sulfates, or synthetic dyes or fragrances. Good for your skin - good for your looks!

The container has a plastic insert with one hole in the middle. You are supposed to press on both sides of the sifter hole to dispense the powder. It was designed to release just the right amount of powder for one application, without leaving you to worry about getting powder all over the place. Just use a fluffy brush and apply the powder all over the skin, or wherever you want to glow (the high points of the face, jawline, neck).

That little hole didn't suit me, so I started trying to pry the insert out of the container with a very small screwdriver. It was tenacious; Tarte designed it to stay there! I succeeded, but unfortunately chipped a small piece out of the lip of the screw top. No matter, once the cap is re-attached, there will be no drying inflow of air. Why did I do that? Because I'm pretty good at sweeping just the right amount of powder onto my brush, shaking off the excess, and applying it with ease. That worked for me quite well when applying this powder. That's not to say you should take my lead. The little dispensing hole should work for most because a little goes a long way. However, if you want to do your own thing, and if you have more patience than I do (take your time), you can flip out that little plastic insert without chipping anything!

The color is a beautiful sunlit bronze. Here's a photo of the powder, which you can see has a golden, matte bronze tint. I applied a swatch of the powder to my arm with a sponge-tipped applicator and struggled to get a photo that would show you that it has just a teeny tiny hint of pink/peach in it. That's what makes it so perfect for my skin! Many of us, particularly those with light coloring, tan naturally with a pink/peach hue. Tarte's Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Finishing Powder in Bronze looks natural on my face.

My swatch photo was taken in full sun, and I applied the bronzing powder to my arm very heavily with a sponge-tipped applicator. The slight shimmer you see is sunlight. The yellow you see is a bruise. Concentrate on the left side of the swatch photo, and you'll see the beauty of the shade. I hope you can see the slight pink-peach tone of the bronze. It's so pretty!

I already deemed 2011 the year of the bronzer. Here's another one that should send every makeup-loving gal to the store for peek. Don't let this one disappear before you get there. I'll bet you come home with it! It's a great value and competes extremely favorably with bronzers twice the price. I'm lucky - Tarte sent mine for a look-see. I'll be using it often.

You can purchase Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Finishing Powder in Bronze from Tarte, Sephora, Ulta, QVC ($42 there, with a brush included), and beauty.com. You really need to try it.

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

Tarte emphasEYES Amazonian Clay Waterproof Liner

Tarte has a striking new line-up in its Summer 2011 Collection. Their emphasEYES Amazonian Clay Waterproof Liner ($22), available in six shades, is a hit! From the blackest black to a lush khaki, there will be at least two shades that will speak to you. Not only that, you'll get three products in one - a budge-proof cream shadow and eyeliner with a fabulous brush that gives you the tool you to create both looks.

Infused with micronized clay and reinforced by a natural waterproofing agent, these plush shadow/liners are a must for creating intense and long-lasting high-definition eyes. Tarte's natural Amazonian clay is one of nature's perfect ingredients, lending deep color pigments while nourishing the skin, reducing surface oil and improving overall texture for smooth application. The botanical waterproofing agent is "earth engineered" from a blend of natural plant waxes to form an impermeable layer that protects against rain, sweat, tears, and creasing. This fusion of nature and technology results in an intense, smooth cream that can be smudged onto lids as an allover shadow or used as a high-definition liner. The double-ended brush makes that your choice.

Each emphasEYES shadow/liner is housed in an airtight jar to keep the product's cushiony texture intact. Some cream/gel shadows and liners dry out fairly quickly. They start life dry, and they get worse over time. Not this one! When you dip its companion brush into the product, you'll see why. It's like a fine cream, and it blends like a dream.

Here are four of the shades. I left the black one out of this photo (it's shown above), but you'll see swatches below. I had to brighten this photo a tad because it was cloudy outside when I took it.

From the lop left, moving clockwise, are brown, bronze, plum, and green. Those titles are much too humble - much simpler than these gorgeous shades. There's something special about each one. The brown is a deep, dark brown - in some lights almost indistinguishable from black. It's the perfect shade for those who don't find full-on jet black flattering by day. The green is a trendy khaki - as pretty as it gets. It's my personal favorite among favorites. I consider it a must-have.

The swatch photo at right shows all the shades Tarte sent me, except for black. For the top three, I used the shadow end of the companion brush, and at the bottom, I used the perfect, thin liner end. Green is at the top of my arm (my arm is not naturally yellow, but the bruise is healing from my tumble). Bronze is below, and Plum is shown below the bronze. At the bottom in this photo is Brown. You can see how dark and rich the shade is.

I wanted to attempt to show you the difference between the rich, deep Brown and Black shades. At the top of the photo at left I painted Brown. Black is below. If you look very carefully, you'll see the difference. The photo was taken in indirect sunlight. It was fairly bright out, but the sun wasn't shining.

The photo at right shows all five shades I have. I don't have Indigo, although I'd like to. Navy liners are among my favorites. Green is similar to the new Khaki Platine, but without as much shimmer. I'm not sure how it gets any better! Would it be appropriate for me to gush now?

Bronze is a rich shade, one that will flatter any complexion. The Plum is among the trendy shades for 2011. It may not be my best shade, but I'll bet it will work for so many gals. Black and Brown? Who can't use them forever?

It's so generous that Tarte provides a brush with each of these emphasEYES Amazonian Clay Waterproof Liners - as if their skinvigorating ingredients weren't enough! When Tarte named these liners waterproof, they weren't overstating that feature. When used as either a shadow or liner, they won't move once they set - and they set quickly. They are perfect for summer, when moisture attacks from all angles.

These shadow/liners apply with a creamy ease that will surprise you. You won't struggle, and you won't have to fuss and start over. If you have sensitive eyes, like I do, you will find Tarte's liners perfect. Make sure to screw the caps on tightly after you use them, and these liners will make you glamorous and happy for a very long time.

You can purchase emphasEYES Amazonian Clay Waterproof Liner from Tarte, Sephora, Ulta, QVC, and beauty.com. You really need to try at least one.

Photos at top courtesy of Tarte; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Paul & Joe Beauté Limited-Edition Collection for Summer 2011 - Eye Shadow B

Paul and Joe introduced three limited-edition Eye Color B ($22) shades with their Summer 2011 Collection: 001 Le Midi, 002 Adrift, and 003 Tranquility. All of the shades provide swirls of color that, when blended, are suitable or any occasion.

I knew I didn't want Adrift, the pinks; figured that the yellow/brown of Tranquility would work for me; but then went for the unconventional swirled teal. I feared it would be too blue, in which case I could give it away, or perfect. I was thrilled that it's perfect.

Despite its showy face in the pan, the color is very subtle - a teal blue wash that anyone should be able to wear - and a nice addition to my makeup wardrobe. I had a little difficulty getting swatch photos for you because the shade is so sheer and so light. I applied it heavily with a sponge-tipped applicator and took my photos outdoors in both sun and light shade.

The photo at right was taken in light shade. I hope you can see that this color will leave a perfect, sheer wash of greyed blue on the lids. Sorry about my yellow arm; it's still bruised.

The photo at left was taken in fairly strong sunlight, which gave the shadow more shine than it has.

Finally, I've included a photo with a pink hydrangea - rather than blue - hopefully to provide some contrast.

I think I selected the nicest shade. Others must have agreed because 001 Le Midi, with the movement of ocean waves, seems to be the one that sells out first wherever it's offered.

You can find Paul & Joe Beauté at Apothica, b~glowing (where I purchased my items from this collection), Beautyhabit, and DermStore.

Photos by b~glowing at top and Best Things in Beauty

Paul & Joe Beauté Limited-Edition Collection for Summer 2011 - Eye Gloss Duo

Paul & Joe introduced a limited-edition Eye Gloss Duo-B ($30) with the Summer 2011 Collection. I introduced the collection yesterday. I had choices for a cream eye shadow - something that always pleases me. There was Smooth Sailing 001, Fathom 002, and Depth 003. Smooth Sailing, pretty in blue, was "not me." Neither was Depth, a pink and grape duo. Fathom - golden orange (literally, that's how it looked online) and champagne beige-gold looked like they would work.

The collection of eye-opening lid lacquers is infused with two textures: whipped jelly and a watery, pearl-enhanced base to "give eyes translucency while showcasing them glamorously." Paul & Joe claims advertises that "a champagne shimmer from their signature Secret D’Or will leave eyes sparkling like jewels with a long-lasting satin finish. The duos have the consistency of a cream-gel, yet wear like a powder without smearing or caking, with a base that contains an ample amount of liquid for continuous moisture throughout the day."

The boxes of the Paul & Joe cosmetics are so cute - I love their presentation. The Eye Gloss Duo tube is straightforward. The dual-ended wand offers two color-coordinated shades - in this case, golden beige and an golden orange-tinged peach. Reader Eileen opened my eyes to orange shades. They do emphasize the blue in my eyes, and I have learned that some of them look good on me - better than I had imagined in the past.

I have provided two swatch photos for you, taken in full sun. The shades on my arm were almost unblended. I applied them with their doe-foot applicators and then smudged them ever so lightly.

Don't let the golden orange-toned shadow scare you! I apply it as a crease/accent shadow. It takes a tiny dab amount of the cream shadow, dotted on my lid, and blended with either my finger or a brush to give me a warm, golden, and punchy peach look that's pretty for summer when paired with peach or bronze cheek and lip shades. I use the golden orange shade in the outer crease and outer lid.

I wear the metallic champagne beige-gold on the lid. Make no mistake - the lighter shade has sparkle, not what I call shimmer. The light catches micro-glitter. Anyone over 40 won't want to wear it to work (fashion, beauty, art, and culture jobs excluded). However, the color pairing is a hit. It looks fabulous with the Bronzer B in Siren, the blush/bronzer in the summer collection. I understand how the look evolved; it's cohesive. I would recommend this Eye Gloss Duo to anyone who loves this color combination and can pull off a metallic eye. I will save it for evening.

You can find Paul & Joe Beauté at b~glowing (where I purchased my items from this collection), Beautyhabit, and DermStore.

Photo at top courtesy of b~glowing; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Paul & Joe Beauté Limited-Edition Collection for Summer 2011

Very recently, I dipped my toes into the Paul & Joe Beauté line. Paul & Joe Beauté is a collection of makeup, skin care, and accessories designed by Paul & Joe fashion designer Sophie Albou. I don't know why I had dismissed the line as being a little "young." Maybe it is, but I was smitten with the gorgeous sea blue colors of the Summer 2011 Collection and decided to try a couple of items. Doesn't the scene above want to make you dip your toes in the ocean?

According to b~glowing, Paul & Joe cosmetics are for women who are totally self-aware and fueled by an inner confidence. Paul & Joe makeup and skin-care products are said to create women who are brimming with so much determination to enjoy life that they may seem a little hedonistic - savvy, stylish, and not afraid to address their needs and desires. Women who have these qualities, and at the same time project charm, passion, and compassion. These are the women for whom Paul & Joe Beauté is made. Who could argue with that?

I ordered three items. Naturally, I wanted the Bronzer B - Siren 001 bronzer/blush compact ($40). It looked like the signature piece in the collection, with the breathtakingly cute sea life design nestled into a baby blue compact that includes a mirror and a fairly useful brush for travelers, shown in my photo below left.

The oil in Bronzer B allows the powder to glide on smoothly and evenly leaving a luxurious veil of sun-kissed color, while the water-repellant properties ensure perfect coverage of skin imperfections and blemishes. This perfectly paired duo is just the burst of color your skin needs to look suntanned and stunning without standing in the sun all day.

Yes, I know I have quite a few new bronzers - enough to last a lifetime. I saw Bronzer B as a hybrid, a mix of a blush and bronzer, and I was right. Fair-skinned gals can use it as a bronzer, but anyone with light- or medium-toned skin will consider it a pretty, summer blush. For those with dark skin, I think it will get lost. When I received it, I had no idea why the directions say we should sweep the color over the entire face. I thought that would be a little too colorful.

My swatch photo is muddied by my bruised arm (sorry). I applied the powder with a sponge-tipped applicator at the top of my arm so that I could get enough pigment to show you that it's a very light peach shade with just a hint of brown (no pink). The green arrow points at that swatch. I also applied the powder with its brush in a large swatch below the arrow. I hope you can see the subtle peachy color in the center of my arm. It's very light. The color near the edge of my arm (at the right in photo) is bruising from my "Chanel fall." It's darker than the blush. Bronzer B has a glow, but no shimmer.

Is this piece a must-have? No, I wouldn't go that far. It's a very nice summer blush for me. I will use it as a blusher and to add color to the high points of my face. Maybe I could sweep it over my entire face; it's so light, it wouldn't look like a bronzer mishap. It will be hard to overdo the color.

After one sweep of my brush, the Paul & Joe logo was gone. The sea creatures are stamped into the powder, so they will stick around a little longer. The pretty blue compact will be around as long as the powder, but it is plastic. If you purchase Bronzer B, don't drop it on a ceramic tile floor - or leave it where a rambunctious Bengal can get to it.

You can find Paul & Joe Beauté at b~glowing, Beautyhabit, and DermStore. I'll show you the eye shadows I purchased either later today or tomorrow. What say you? Have you used Paul & Joe?

Photos at top courtesy of b~glowing; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

Lancôme Bronze Sensations for Summer 2011

Lancôme has new bronzers for summer 2011 - to help you go from zero to sun-kissed in minutes. There's something for everyone with the new Star Bronzers. Star Bronzer Long Lasting Bronzing Powder Natural Glow ($35) has a soft shimmer, while Star Bronzer Long Lasting Bronzing Powder Natural Matte ($35) offers those who prefer a matte bronzer just as many shade choices. It's been the season for fabulous new bronzers!

Natural Glow is available in three shades: 01 Lumière, 02 Solaire, and 03 Riche. This sheer silky-light powder delivers a natural sun-kissed glow in any season. The light-reflecting pigments ensure a radiant, glowing result. The lovely, smooth texture blends effortlessly and evenly for a beautiful glow.

Natural Matte is equally pretty! The blend of mineral pigments and absorbent micro-spheres ensures long-lasting smoothness and a perfect matte finish for your skin. Like its sister bronzer, if offers a fine texture that blends effortlessly, and Lancôme says the finish does shine or dull throughout the day. Natural Matte is also available in three shades: 01 Suntan, 02 Sunkiss, and 03 Sunbath. Cute names!

Both bronzers are suitable for all skin types, oil-free, and fragrance-free (yea!). Lancôme promises they will not promote acne.

As you would expect, so far I've purchased the lightest shade in each formula. I wanted to show you my photos of the two compacts to illustrate the difference in their finish. Suntan, the Natural Matte one is shown at left. Lumière, the slightly shimmering Natural Glow bronzer is shown above. I call Natural Glow shimmering because I can see subtle shimmer in the compact and on my skin. It's not at all over-the-top, and I think even matte lovers may find Natural Glow enticing.

I waited until very late in the day to get outdoor swatch photos for you. I had, after all, had a makeup trip to heaven earlier in the afternoon. For my swatch photos, I applied each bronzer with a sponge-tipped applicator, heavier than I would apply it on my face. I applied Suntan at the top of my arm and Lumière below it. Even though they are both the lightest shades available, Lumière is the lightest of the two. You wouldn't realize that by just looking at the compacts.

I doubted my own photos when I looked at the swatches. I knew I had applied Suntan (matte) at the top of my arm, with Lumière below. However, the compacts tell a different story. I double-checked everything today - just to ensure I wasn't on some kind of makeup high when I took my photos. I know I tried to apply the bronzers with the same number of applicator swipes. If you look carefully, you can see that the bottom swatch does has shimmer, while the top one doesn't.

The two photos were taken in different, but fading, light. Because I love both bronzers, I wanted to go ahead and show them to you. Suntan is perfect for contouring, and Lumière adds a pretty glow that I've swept all over my face. Natural Glow is so natural, I think even shimmer phobes will like it. Neither appears to be orange on me - a common problem with bronzers on my fair skin tone.

The starburst pattern stamped into these new bronzers makes them as pretty in the compact - at least for now - as they are on the skin. I think Lancôme has a hit on its hands. You can find the new Lancôme collections for summer at Neiman Marcus, Lord & Taylor, Saks, other Lancôme counters, and Lancôme-usa.com. I had not found the colors at Nordstrom Tysons as of Tuesday.

Don't forget Camp Gorgeous at Neiman Marcus through this weekend. Friends & Family is ongoing at Lord & Taylor. They are offering a 10% discount in the beauty department. If you didn't get the card, ask for the discount anyhow.

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