Friday, September 16, 2016

The Friday Forum - September 16

Do you like leather fragrances? Tom Ford's new Ombré Leather 16 Eau de Parfum ($225) is a nice one. It smells like a soft leather, the kind you'd like to wear next to your skin. I wore it one day and found it to be soft, long-lasting, and inviting.

It's described as textured, sleek, and enveloping. Tom Ford has unveiled a private blend Eau de Parfum directly inspired by the fashion he just showed on the runway. Ombré Leather 16 invites you into his complete Autumn/Winter 2016 with a definitive statement.

I read somewhere that it has patchouli in the ingredients, but I've worn this fragrance and cannot smell that offending note (offensive to me). The other notes are leather, violet leaf, cardamom, jasmine sambac, and oakmoss. The fragrance is soft and inviting - perfect for the fall season. If you don't have a Tom Ford counter near you, give Debbie O'Malley a call at (202) 966-9700. She would be glad to help you. I hear this one is flying off the shelves.

The Neiman Marcus Beauty Event has been extended a few days, until September 21. Then, on the 22, the Saks event starts. I have not received a peek at their GWPs yet, but when I get one, I'll share it.

Le Métier de Beauté has finally released new colors! There are new lip crèmes. I just purchased two, and when the sun shines consistently, I'll get photos. There are also new matte lipsticks, but I can't recommend them. The color doesn't last.

I am supposed to receive the Victoria Beckham pieces I ordered tomorrow. I am beyond excited. I was conservative. I think I ordered four, including the vintage Modern Mercury. There was a mob scene in New York this week when she unveiled the collection. You can order at Bergdorf Goodman's Web site and Beckham's own site.

It's time for the Friday Forum. The Friday Forum has always been an opportunity to share information. Are you using a fabulous product and want to sing its praises? Tell us about it! Did you find a beauty product disappointing? Tell us why! Do you have questions others might be able to answer? We can help! Want to talk about skin care? I'm game. Just use the comments. We have busy weekends and slow ones on the forum. I hope to see you in the comments.

Update: Ask and you shall receive. I asked the beautiful Anna Befanis if she had a photo of the Saks Beauty Event Bag. Here it is. I think it looks very nice.

Photos courtesy of Tom Ford and Saks Fifth Avenue/Anna

29 comments:

Charlestongirl said...

My apologies to anyone who read this feature before I fixed TF's grammar. I had copied a line from the press. The line referenced the EdP as sleek and enveloping. However, the way they wrote it, it appeared to reference Tom Ford as such. He is, but that wasn't the point.

I'm a grammar freak and nearly died when I read it an hour after I published it. My apologies to all English teachers. Hopefully, you got a laugh.

Anahita said...

I just received my order from BG for the Victoria Beckham collection. It's a nice collection and the packaging was stunning. However, the stunning packaging only relates to the palettes. The lipstick packaging feel incredibly light and flimsy. The lipsticks felt like they were rattling inside the tube. For $45 that's unacceptable in my opinion. I also checked out the new lip inks from Chanel. I bought 2 colors: a deep pink and a raspberry. Some of the other colors are downright ugly. They were incredibly bright and in your face. There was only one neutral color which was a little surprising to me. I also just returned from London and picked up Guerlain Royal Extract from Harrods.

Charlestongirl said...

Anahita, I've been holding a Lip Ink post. I guess I can publish it tomorrow.

Too bad about Victoria Beckham! I ordered completely different things. We must compare notes after mine arrive.

hytrud said...

I am put off & more than concerned now that MOST cosmetic and treatments that we purchased come from other countries, and NOT our beloved USA. I found only THREE (3) products made in America; The newest Le Métier Precision Lash Mascara, Tom Ford’s Soleil Blanc eau de Parfum and Benefit’s 3D Browtones. Just THREE (3) products out of 50-75 on my vanity.
I fell madly, I mean madly in LOVE with the NEW Estee Lauder GENUINE GLOW you wrote about a few weeks back, unfortunately it is made in BELGIUM! I loved it so much; I ordered 4 more without looking on the box where it was made first.

Le Métier Hydra Plump Lip Serum & Eye shadow : BELGIUM
Estee launder Brow Now; CANADA
Rodial: Airbrush makeup; ITALY
Rodial: Eye smudge brush; PRC, (whatever country that is? )
Rodial: Glam Super food lip balm: ENGLAND
Tom Ford: Runway shadow & Lip Contour Runway Lip: ITALY
Tom Ford: Bitter Bitch Nail enamel; FRANCE

Wouldn’t we all LOVE & become even more devoted KNOWING the products WE buy from these very expensive high end companies were made in America? For the females that Need and desire Full time jobs? By stimulating our faltering economy so many people, especially females, would have REAL-LIFE full-time jobs with healthy benefits we’d all feel even better about our purchases? I certainly would LOVE it. Being a female is hard enough raising a family and working full time, and let’s face it, job security is hard to come by lately.
I want to encourage these cosmetic companies, along with all of you to write to them and let them know it’s TIME! Time to look at where they are producing cosmetics that Americans will purchase. It will encourage more females to purchase their products knowing they are employing hundreds of females here in AMERICA! Cosmetic companies all spend millions on TV & in Magazines, etc.. Photo shoots alone are not cheap, hours and hours are spent on those Ads with expensive, experienced marketing managers.
It’s time ladies. We are 100 million females in America that purchase MOST of their products. WE define their successful bottom line. They all simply NEED to hear it, and then change it! It’s as simple as that.

Look at how many dollar$ you’ve purchased just this last year at these high-end cosmetic companies? I’ve spent over $2500.00 this year alone and it’s not over yet! I plan to spend more dollars with the latest and newest Victoria Beckham, etc. What other cosmetics have not debuted for the Fall/Winter/Xmas lines you’ll all purchase? These companies would take a year to set up new tooling, etc. here in America, but it’s certainly not, NOT impossible.
This is the BEST WAY to ‘pass it on’ for the next generation of young ladies that desire Full time jobs and exciting careers in the every changing beauty industry. It’s just TIME to change it going forward. “Women are more likely than men to be in poverty.” That’s got to stop! WE CAN HELP!

Charlestongirl said...

Trud, I'm so glad you looked. Don't worry about anything made in Belgium, Italy, and France. The quality will be good. How about we start by boycotting China, South Korea, and a few other Asian countries?

Sandra said...

It is so good to be back in the groove! I spent the summer visiting my family in NYC and the having my grandsons here at "Camp Nonna and Poppy" here in VT for the rest of the summer. I loved reading your blog every night, but it was very late at that time and I never was able to respond! Charleston Girl your ears should have been ringing all summer as I visit d the wonderful makeup departments and boutiques in NYC equipped with information from your postings! I was so excited to see the products you and your bloggers mentioned up close and personal! A fabulous adventure, indeed!

In the end, I have to,say, my Very best fav products are Chanel Les 4'Ombres in 268 Candeur Et Experience -- I am actually using the beige and Browns in this collection as y neutrals this Fall. I love, loveChanel Les Beiges Duo No 01! I never want to run out of it. Sometimes I do brush Bobbi Brown's Highlighting Powder Pink Glow over it for a bit of glow. This works well on my 72 year old face! I am also in love with Tom Ford's Moisture Lip Color 01 Scandola and sometimes apply Chanel's Rouge Allure Gloss 12 Exotique over it! I do use th Tom Ford lip case as a mirror often as you mentioned early on! I still am in love with Chanel's Lift Lumiere for my "elderly" skin!
All of these products you reviewed and I am loving you for it!

CG, it is now Autumn, and I am looking forward to what you and your readers have to offer for the coming seasons! Thank you, CG, for hanging in there in spite of serious issues in your life. You make th end of my day as exciting as the beginning!
Hugs,
Sandra

Sandra said...

I must agree with you, CG, on boycotting China, etc. we will not buy anything made in China, especially. Does definitely limit our choices. I have to add that my son and daughter-in-law live in Hipong Kong, and they will never buy anything made in China! It is very serious.

Charlestongirl said...

Hi Sandra!

I'll be back in the morning. Trying to get to bed early.

Anonymous said...

Charleston Girl--I've been a long-time lurker and rave about your blog to others. I understand the geo-political issues as to why one would suggest boycotting products from China. But why would you suggest that individuals boycott products from "South Korea, and a few other Asian countries?"

South Korea has been a long-time ally of the U.S. I'm also curious what you mean by "a few other Asian countries." It is quite disappointing to read that comment. It comes across as biased which I am not sure you intended to do. I hope you consider explaining your comment and will not disapprove this post.

Eileen said...

Oh Charlestongirl! I got such a laugh the first time I read the description of----Tom Ford! LOL And, although I certainly agree that Mr. Ford is one suave, sexy rascal, he's already taken. ;-)

Apropos the country where products are manufactured, in the case of some products it is not about cheap labor or anything like that. It's commonly believed in the beauty biz that the finest powders come from Italy, the creamiest lip pencils form Germany, etc. It's really sad that the US is not at the forefront of manufacturing given we have such amazing talent here; not to mention the quality control that is sadly lacking in China! I remember several years ago when Edward Bess moved his lipstick manufacturing from the US to China. Somewhere along the way, the formula was changed and proved to be a disaster. A gentleman of integrity and a truly caring man, he started calling customers and bloggers to personally apologize for the "misstep". He promised everyone that he'd bring his original lipstick back to the US. He even went so far as to recall all the inferior "new" lipstick from the stores. That must have cost a pretty penny, but as I said, he's a man of integrity. He did as promised and moved the manufacturing back to the US and restored the original formula of his beloved lipstick which then quickly regained its cult status as one of the best in the business. If Edward Bess can produce a superlative product in the US, than other brands can, too. As for the smaller indy brands, we've seen some really top quality products manufactured in the US and many of them right here in California. In regards to other countries, we pay a pittance for our cosmetics and we have generous no questions asked returns. I would be willing to pay a bit more for a product that would help someone earn a living wage here in the US. Like many Americans, I've grown weary of out-sourcing and moving manufacturing overseas :-(

This is really shaping up to be the year of the lipstick, isn't it? Whether a brand is launching a new line or reformulating an existing one, it seems like every major brand is offering new and improved lipsticks that are generously infused with humectants and soothing oils and butters. I can't speak to the matte formulas because I so seldom purchase a matte (and when I do, I have to wear it with a balm), but the glossy or satin formulas are very kind to the lips. I just bought one of the new Dior lipsticks and find it hydrating without being slick and the finish has a soft glow that is fashionable. What I find puzzling, though, about all these launches is that despite so many beautiful formulas in an extensive array of colors, no "it" color has emerged. Usually a season will have a couple colors that have everyone saying, "Yes! This defines the season!"

Hi Sandra,

Sneak peeks of the holiday/winter collections are surfacing and we're going to be in for a lot of sparkle. A few days ago I was looking at pictures of Guerlain's collection. It's always based on one of Guerlain's classic fragrances and this year the inspiration is Shalimar. Météorite fans won't be disappointed. This year's "balls" are stunning! I'm sure we'll soon be seeing pictures of the collections from the other heavy hitters in the luxury class so start saving your money :-)

Happy weekend, everyone :-)

Charlestongirl said...


Hi Anonymous,

I won't knowingly buy anything from China. That's political, but the quality issues are horrifying. As for other Asian countries, it's all about quality. South Korea has a huge beauty market. It's probably the best of them. Just look at the assortment of Korean skin care at Sephora! I have looked for research to make me feel good about the quality, and there isn't much out there. I cannot imagine ever putting slug slime on my face. I was told years ago by an infectious disease specialist at Johns Hopkins not to get that slime on myself, and if I did, to go wash it off immediately and thoroughly. It has a very nasty bacterium in it. I'll stick with the professors.

Now, I know Korean beauty doesn't all have slug slime in it, but I don't know what else it may contain. That's why I stick with makeup made in ancient European factories where quality is known and highly regulated. Or the USA. I'd love to feel the same way about the Asian latecomers to our market, but I can't prove anything. Until I see scientific studies to guide my buying decisions, I'll stick with the known sources.

I hope you didn't feel that I was attacking a great, solid ally of our country. There is nothing inherently wrong with South Korea. At the end of her life, my sweet mother was cared for by women from the Philippines, who treated her like their own mother. Now you're going to make me cry. Signing off...

Anonymous said...

Hi Charleston Girl--the fact that you posted my comment and took the time to write a response is a true testament to your integrity and why I rave about your blog to others.

I understand your concerns about quality and the source of products. South Korea produces some great quality products from the Amore Pacific and Sulwahasoo lines as well as Japan producing Cle de Peau, Shiseido and Tatcha.

Clarifying that your comments were specifically regarding quality concerns is much appreciated. And I understand not wanting to smear slug slime on your face. There are those mysteries of eastern medicine that we have yet to understand. However, we all have our lines that we just cannot cross! �� Thank you for your candor and integrity.

Charlestongirl said...

Thank you, Anonymous!

Charlestongirl said...

Anahita, I got lucky. The pieces I received are gorgeous. Beautiful packaging, heavy cases, and fab colors. I would order more, but I read that they sold out. I'll go looking.

Charlestongirl said...

I just went to BG. It's not all sold out.

Anonymous said...

Try googling sanitation of Korean sheet masks. It seems there are some companies that are paying workers a pittance to fold these at home with no hygiene controls.
As to anahita's comment on the color offering of the Chanel inks I think they may be targeted to the Asian market. Particularly when they are sheered out or done as a gradient.
Frances

Eileen said...

Hi Frances,

I read one of the articles about the sheet masks being folded in homes. I guess that's a case of a company cashing in on the unprecedented demand for sheet masks. Greed leads to all kinds of shortcuts and many of those shortcuts have major health implications. It gave me the heebeegeebees just thinking about all the unsanitary conditions in which these masks are being folded and packaged. And then we put that bacteria laden mask on our faces where the contaminated serum comes into contact with our skin and vulnerable eyes, nose, and mouth for 20-30 minutes. Shocking! I'll stick with my Tatcha masks. They cost an arm and a leg, but I have confidence in the company and the conditions under which things are manufactured. Tatcha, like SKII, isn't out to cash in on a craze. Masks have been an integral part of their approach to beauty treatments all along. And, unlike the small companies and the fly-by-night operations, they're well established and come under a great deal of scrutiny.

LadyJicky said...

Charleston Girl , I understand how Trud McD feels but I would like Australia to make more products and give more jobs to us. LOL

Eileen ... I bought 2 new Dior lipsticks last week but took them back - they stung my lips!The new formula was not as creamy and moist on my lips and I must be allergic to something in there . I was so sad as my favourite lippies were Dior Rouge and the new ones have wonderful colours too :(

Now ... today I went to the shoppping center and bought two new Shiseido Rouge Rouge lipsticks - they are just out in the shops and I can say they are fabulous - lovely colours , chic packaging and lovely on my lips :)

Eileen said...

Hi LadyJicky,

Isn't it sad when something we loved in the past no longer works? That happened to me several years ago when Chanel reformulated their Rouge Allure. In any event, the Shiseido lipsticks are next on my list to try. They seem to be getting a lot of love online so when I go to Nordstrom's this week, I plan on stopping by the counter to pick one out. I recently purged my lipstick stash of all the ones I no longer wear or which are past their prime so I have plenty of room for some new beauties :-)

Maureen said...

The Shiseido Rouge Rouge collection has gorgeous colors in red tones from light to deep. I bought Sweet Desire, a cool mauve tone that works with my fair skin. This formula has a satin finish compared to the emollient finish of the Perfect Rouge collection. A caution for those who don't like shimmer in their lipsticks--some colours in Rouge Rouge have a very fine shimmer. I didn't realize that Sweet Desire had shimmer until I applied it at home. The good news as this lipstick doesn't irritate my lips.

I looked at Beckham collection, but nothing appealed to me. I was also surprised at the prices--C$115 for the eye shadow palette is steep for an Estée Lauder product. That palette is more expensive than the Tom Ford palettes.

LadyJicky said...

Eileen I was a bit sad when Chanel reformulated their Coco lipsticks - I can still wear the new ones but I did like the old so I understand how you must feel about the Allure :(

Maureen .... I am going to take a look at your "Sweet Desire" sounds like it would suit me too. I have First Bite - a pretty mid red with shimmer ( I did not see this in the Dept. store - lighting - Rrrrr) but its so subtle and nice. The other is Crime of Passion .... now this is what I call a peach ! Its creamy and I do love it too.

While at the Shiseido counter Charleson Girl , I bought two cleansers ( my dear Benefiance Cream cleanser is discontinued ) so I got their Ibuki Gentle Cleanser - its foaming but creamy , if you know what I mean - plus their Creamy Cleansing Emulsion ... non foaming and its fabulous - not as good as the one Benefiance one they discontinued but it does not make my eyes water and removes makeup so nice. Its on "the list" ! LOL

Charlestongirl said...

Sandra, you selected some really nice things!

Charlestongirl said...

LadyJicky,

I have been doing a long-term test of "wipe" cleansers. All different brands. So far, I'd say they are all inadequate. I have to go over my eyes with eye makeup remover, and that is with non-waterproof mascara. The things I do for this blog!

The good news is that I'm old enough that my face isn't breaking out.

Charlestongirl said...

France's, I am totally grossed out. But thank you. I need to know those things. I'll add overseas sheets to slug slime on my disgusting list.

Charlestongirl said...

Anahita, My SA at BG told me to tell you to return the lipstick that's rattling around. He thinks it's defective. Also, if it was delivered on one of our very hot days, it could have melted at the base.

Eileen said...

Hi Charlestongirl,

I know micellar cleansing waters and wipes are all the rage and that some people swear by them, but I also find them inadequate for removing makeup and sunscreen. I can go over my face with a few cloths and still wake up with raccoon eyes so I know there is other gunk on my face as well. I've also had problems with even the ones for sensitive skin causing my skin to burn and I must rinse the residue off very well with water. So, needless to say--but I'll say it anyway :-) -- those types of products aren't for me. Do you ever read The Beauty Brains or listen to their podcasts? They just did one on micellar cleansing waters and how they work that was interesting and not overly technical. After reading their explanation, it's easy to understand why there can still be some gunk left on the face. I think I'll stick to my Tatcha cleansing oil at night and my gentle Cetaphil in the morning.

Charlestongirl said...

OMG, Eileen, don't use Cetaphil. Read the ingredients. Try CeraVe.

Eileen said...

CeraV burns my face and causes my rosacea to flare up :-(. I know it is supposedly excellent, yet not for me :-(

Charlestongirl said...

Then find something else! I'll come up with ideas for you later.