The Giorgio Armani Spring/Summer 2016 Runway Collection - Swatched Plus Armani Goes Fur-Free

You may remember that I had to swatch the Giorgio Armani Beauty Spring/Summer 2016 Runway Palette in the store, and I promised to provide better swatch photos of the three eye shadows and blush.

The Spring/Summer Runway Palette ($120) is gorgeous - even prettier than it looks on the Web site. The photo directly above shows the first tier of the palette with a warm pink blush that will thrill many, and the second tier presents three beautiful eye shadows.

I was able to get a swatch photo in late-afternoon sunshine. I swatched with sponge-tipped applicators, applying the eye shadow shades fairly heavily and the blush rather lightly.

The leftmost shade is a beautiful base champagne shade, which is shown at the top of my arm, offers a beautiful gleam. I wish you could see the exact tone of the beautiful grey shade in my photo. It has a slight periwinkle tint that makes it unique. It's worth the price of admission. The light copper shade is a beautiful shade for spring and also daytime. I'm smitten with all three.

The blush is shown on my arm below the three eye shadows. I applied it moderately and blended it slightly into a circle. It's a warm pink shade that works perfectly for me.

I hope this photo will give you enough information to decide whether the palette is a must-have for you. It is for me. Right now, the Armani Beauty Web site is offering a 15% discount and free shipping for orders of $75 or more. Just use the code SPRING.

Just in case you haven't heard, The Armani Groups has announced that all of its lines will go fur-free starting this fall. WWD reported an agreement between Armani and The Humane Society of the United States and the Fur Free Alliance. The Armani Group plans to stop using animal fur in all of its products. The Fur Free Alliance is a coalition of 40 animal protection organizations in 28 countries that are trying to end the fur trade.

Giorgio Armani said in a statement released by the HSUS, “I am pleased to announce that the Armani Group has made a firm commitment to abolish the use of animal fur in its collections. Technological progress made over the years allows us to have valid alternatives at our disposition that render the use of cruel practices unnecessary as regards animals. Pursuing the positive process undertaken long ago, my company is now taking a major step ahead, reflecting our attention to the critical issues of protecting and caring for the environment and animals.”

This makes me love Giorgio Armani even more. Hip hip hooray!

Photo at top courtesy of Giorgio Armani Beauty; swatch photo by Best Things in Beauty

The Giorgio Armani Spring/Summer 2016 Runway Collection - In-Store Photos

I finally got a chance at lunchtime today to pop into Neiman Marcus and get some quick photos of the Giorgio Armani Spring/Summer 2016 Beauty Runway Collection. I had to take my photos with my iPhone in the store or outside the doors, and the outdoor photo isn't wonderful. The sun was hiding behind a thick cloud cover. Sometimes, you have to make do.

The Spring/Summer Runway Palette ($120) is gorgeous - even prettier than it looks on the Web site. I took my photos of the tester. The photo directly above shows the first tier of the palette with a warm pink blush that will thrill many. The second tier, shown directly below, presents three beautiful eye shadows. It looks like someone really dug into the center shade with a knife.

The colors are better represented by Armani's photo directly below. I think it's more accurate than I was able to achieve indoors.

I took swatch photos inside and outdoors. I selected one taken outdoors for this feature. It isn't a great photo, but it was the best I could do on the run today.

I swatched all shades with a sponge-tipped applicator. The leftmost shade is a beautiful base champagne shade. It is not white as it might appear. I wish you could see the tone of the beautiful grey shade in my photo. It has a slight periwinkle tint that makes it unique and extravagant. It's worth the price of admission. The light copper shade is a beautiful shade for spring and also daytime. I'm smitten with all three.

The blush is shown on my arm below the three eye shadows. I blended it slightly into a circle. It's a warm pink shade that works perfectly for me. If you want to enlarge this photo, just click on it.

I promise to get better photos once this exquisite palette is mine. For now, I hope these photos will give you enough information to decide whether the palette is a must-have for you.

One photo courtesy of Giorgio Armani Beauty; other photos by Best Things in Beauty

The Giorgio Armani Spring/Summer 2016 Runway Collection

The splashy photos sent by Armani Beauty last week caught my eye. I need to get over to a counter to see if the new spring/summer color treasures have arrived locally.

Directly inspired by the Giorgio Armani Spring/Summer 2016 fashion show, the Runway Collection captures the essence of the "fil rouge" or red thread. Light and daring, this season’s exclusive collection opts for a natural complexion that highlights celestial, almost cosmic, eyes. Lids cast endless reflections of light. The lips are given a light, pearly veil of barely-there color that contrasts with the striking red polish of the nails. Each product features the star fabric of the Spring/Summer Armani Show and is enveloped in a veil of sheer tulle adorned with touches of graphic color.

As usual, the centerpiece of the collection is the Spring/Summer Runway Palette ($120). This palette looks like a must-have to me.

With a twist of graphic colors, wrapped in a luxurious veil of iridescent sheer tulle fabric straight from the runway, the palette focuses on the face and eyes. The first tier reveals a powder blush with a velvety texture that gently sculpts the cheekbones and delicately highlights facial features to create a healthy glow. The next tier contains a trio of eye shadows in iridescent shades: pearl, silvery copper, and shimmering grey - all of which look beautiful.

In addition to the palette, there is a Eye & Brow Maestro in a pot ($35), charcoal Runway Eye Tint ($42), natural pearly shimmer Runway Ecstasy Lacquer ($40), and red runway Nail Lacquer ($30).

Each piece of the collection is beautifully packaged in a veil of sheer tulle adorned with touches of graphic color. You can see the palette in the pouch above.

To see the entire collection as well as a video, pop over to the Giorgio Armani Beauty Web site. I am going to try to get over to Neiman Marcus later today or tomorrow at the latest to find out which pieces I can't live without. As you as intrigued as I am?

Photos courtesy of Giorgio Armani Beauty

Chantecaille Save the Bees Palette for Spring 2014

What a glorious day! The sun is shining, and the sky is blue. That plus Chantecaille's refillable Save the Bees Palette ($83) will brighten anyone's day.

I finally got a chance to get outside to take photos. The conditions for clean photography aren't good. It was hard to find any backdrops that weren't bright, white silvery snow. The snow reflected light a bit too much. I did my best.

This refreshing eye and cheek palette artfully fuses the natural beauty of the bees’ habitat with the Spring 2014 runway trends. Five percent of proceeds from the Save the Bees Palette will be donated to The Xerces Society to help protect bees and our environment.

The Palette features Honey, a glistening golden highlighter for both eyes and cheeks; two new eye shades: Sky, an eye-opening sheer blue, and Beehive, a versatile grey beige; and Nectar Blush, a flattering warm coral-pink. These shades will work for all of us.

I think the colors could not be prettier. Although the metallic bees will disappear with a wipe or two of your brush, they leave behind beautiful memories - and an incentive to do everything you can do to save the bees.

Acting as nature’s pollinators, bees have played an extremely vital role in our terrestrial ecosystems for millions of years. Unfortunately, in the past century, a number of bee populations have become extinct as a result of disease outbreak, monocultures like corn and soy, and repeated use of dangerous pesticides. Other species are declining rapidly Their dramatic decline not only threatens our harvests and livelihoods, but serves as a serious warning sign that our environmental attitude and practices must change.

What can we do as individuals? Saving the Bees only takes a few simple everyday changes, such as:

• Plant wildflower seeds;
• Eliminate pesticide and herbicide use (this gardener did so years ago);
• Purchase local honey from community beekeepers;
• Sign the Pollinator Pledge; and
• Bring back the pollinators (click here to learn more).

Of course, you can purchase Chantecaille's Save the Bees Palette to donate to The Xerces Society to help protect bees and our environment.

Honey, the golden shade at the top left in the palette, is shown at the top of my arm. Although it is technically a highlighter, I find it a stunning golden eye shadow. Beehive, second down on my arm is one of the most beautiful cool taupes I've ever seen - or used. I have a feeling it will become my everyday go-to taupe. That means, of course, that I will have to purchase a few more Save the Bees Palettes. Sky, a beautiful accent shade, brightens the eyes. It's almost white, so don't worry about the "blue eye shadow" stigma. The blush, Nectar, is a perfect warm pink, one that flatters the other shades, as you can see in the photo of Olivia Chantecaille shown at the top of this feature.

All of these shades leave an elegant glean, without glitter or micro-particles - my favorite finish. It's forgiving for all age groups.

Can you see show Olivia (or her artist) used Sky on the inner corners of her lids to brighten up her look? I'm guessing her lids were covered with Honey, then Beehive was used to top it in the outer half of her lids. The light cheek, composed with Nectar, added a finishing touch to her always beautiful countenance.

For the most part, my favorite palettes were all made by Chantecaille. I love the company's makeup because it fits my lifestyle. I'm not saying that I wear Chantecaille exclusively, but it has become a regular part of my beauty routine - both the skin care and the color.

Even the box of the Save the Bees Palette is lovely.  Too bad my reflection on the cover marred its perfect beauty. I love the image; this is one box I will be saving.

I should have shown you Save the Bees weeks ago. Mother Nature conspired against me, but it's a spring palette, after all. Today's sunshine reminds me that spring is not too far off. I hope you'll take a look here, even though you've probably seen photos taken in indoor studios.

The Neiman Marcus Spring Beauty Event starts February 19 and runs through March 2. Chantecaille has beautiful new colors for eyes and lips to start your season off right. The gift is a medium-sized ivory mock croc cosmetic bag with deluxe sizes of Bio Lifting Neck Cream, Bio Lifting Mask, Mirth Lipgloss, and Black Faux Cils Mascara with a qualifying purchase. If you need help, give Jeannine Barnes a call at (202) 966-9700, extension 2289. You will also be given the Beauty Event tote with any purchase in Beauty of $125 or more.

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

Coming Attraction: Chantecaille The Wild Horses Collection for Fall 2013

Fall 2013 will embody a minimal and serene elegance through timeless iconic pieces with a sober luxury. The tone is set through materials of fur (faux, I hope), leather, cozy knits, and textural tweeds in more forgiving styles with volume, menswear influences, longer hemlines, and oversized coats. The trending colors will be warm earthy browns, rich neutrals, black, white, camel, and pops of red.

Inspired by the grounding and moody shades of nature in winter, paired with the simple sophistication of purity and strength, makeup will be a light wash of eye shadow in shades from the earth: warm browns, copper, and ash, emphasized by black eye liner. The lips create the perfect counterpoint in soft nudes or rich reds.

The Wild Horses Palette will benefit the Humane Society of the United States. Embodying the spirit of freedom, wild horses have graced the American landscape for centuries, reminding us of our deepest connection to the Earth. Sadly, in just the past 40 years, over 22 million acres of wild horse habitat has been lost in the U.S. to make room for cattle, fracking, and mining industries. By conserving land for wild horses, we not only help save countless herds, we help save our environment from the polluting extractive industries that are destroying it. Ensuring that wild horses are able to roam freely means keeping a part of our Earth untouched and unexploited.

Inspired by the magnificent beauty and free spirit of wild horses, Chantecaille has created a striking, yet natural palette that effortlessly compliments the Fall 2013 runway trends. Four shades will the refillable Wild Horses Palette ($83).

• Black Stallion, a midnight black liner with a whisper of shimmer, inspired by the elusive Black Stallion
• Palomino, a soft, creamy beige eye shade, inspired by the golden coats and glistening blonde manes of Palomino horses
• Mustang, a warm chestnut brown eye shade illuminated by flecks of gold, inspired by the iconic, wild Mustangs of the West
• Freedom, a flattering sunset pink that creates a soft, windswept-flush

Five percent of all proceeds from the palette will be donated to the Humane Society and its efforts to save wild horses.

The fall collection will also include Persimmon Hydra Chic ($34), a trendy, bold tomato red with a flattering burst of orange (sorry about the fuzzy photo). The ultra-moisturizing, botanical formula delivers up to six hours of long-wearing color with a satin smooth finish.

Natural papaya and orchid extracts help soften the lips while simultaneously providing antioxidant and anti-aging protection. Raist, a natural sugar derivative, allows the luxurious texture to melt onto lips with a comforting and hydrating sensation.

Supreme Cils Mascara ($52), Chantecaille's new smudge-proof mascara, will be resistant to water and humidity and offer serious staying power. The brush’s unique snowflake-shaped bristles are designed to grab and coat every lash with the volume enhancing formula. With a single swipe, lashes of all lengths will be thickened and separated for eye-catching fringe without any clumps. Unlike other long-wearing, water-resistant mascaras, Supreme Cils’ Rosewater-infused formula can be gently and easily removed with warm water.

Chantecaille will also be introducing Le Stylo Ultra Slim ($34), the ultimate tool for creating the expertly defined eyes seen on all Fall 2013 runways. Inspired by Chantecaille's best-selling Le Stylo, this sleeker generation’s water-resistant formula will deliver intense, saturated color to the lash line - completely effortlessly. The innovative liner’s calligraphy brush-like tip will allow for easy application with astonishing control and precision. Thick strokes taper elegantly, sculpting and defining eyes to create a range of versatile looks, from a glamorous 1960’s-style cat's eye to a simple, lash-enhancing line.

The Fall collection will be cruelty-free and paraben-free, without lanolin or any animal or mineral derivatives. It will be available in September 2013 at Barneys New York, Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Space.NK, Frédéric Fekkai Salons, and select Nordstroms, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bloomingdale’s locations. It will also be available on Chantecaille.com.

Photos courtesy of Chantecalle

Le Métier de Beauté Castaway Collection for the Face and Eye, Exclusive to Neiman Marcus, Live and In Person

As is usually the case, Le Métier de Beauté's press photo of the limited-edition Castaway Collection for the Face and Eye ($125) did not do it justice. I have to admit that when I saw the press photo, which I published here, I was not chomping at the bit to get my hands on Castaway. However, I know from experience that those early photos can be misleading. Not that I've seen the palette, live and in person, I can't wait for it to arrive. It is scheduled for landing next week. Yippee! I won't have to wait three months to get my hands on  my own.

The Castaway Collection is a well-edited blend of blushing and bronzing hues and rich, sheen eye shadows that combine to create glowing skin and a variety of flattering face and eye looks. The multipurpose palette includes eight universally wearable shades that you will be able to mix and layer for endless customized options. Le Métier de Beauté hopes the Castaway Collection for the Face and Eye will serve as your essential beauty staple.

I swatched all the shades, which are reportedly new, but I don't have names for them yet. Fortunately, the sun was shining brightly, high in the sky. I swatched heavily with a sponge-tipped applicator, so you will have to use your imagination for how the blushes, bronzer, and eye shadows will look with a normal application. I swatched both rows from left to right.

The blush/bronzer face shades are gorgeous. The first shade provides a gorgeous rose pink sheen. In my opinion, it's perfect. The second pink, a bit more blue, offers just a hint of sparkle. The warm pink (third down) should please nearly everyone. It's one of those shades that brightens the face. The golden bronzer is warm and wonderful on the skin, and it mixes beautifully with the other three face shades. You will note that it also offers a stunning sheen. All of the face shades have life.

The eye shades are a well-edited mix. The two taupe-brown shades are must-haves. If you live in neutral shades, you are going to want to have them. I do. Even though I love the entire palette, I zeroed in on those shades and had little palpitations.

The shade at the top of my arm is a peachy taupe on the skin - the perfect base shade, the perfect anything shade. It is seriously gorgeous. The warm brown below it is as perfect as brown gets in my eyes. Look at the beautiful sheen it offers!

The moss green shade is a fabulous complement to the other colors. When applied as a wash of color, it lends a distinct touch to the entire look. I love green and wish Le Métier de Beauté offered it in Kaleidoscopes as often as it includes plum shades. The brick/terracotta shade will appeal to all of you warm-skinned beauties. I will have to be convinced I can wear it once I have my own go at it - at home with all my favorite brushes.

Michael Reinhardt has been applying all the shades on customers this week, and he assured me that the terracotta shade is more versatile than it appeared when I swatched it heavily on my arm. I think the first pairing I will try is the the top shade all over the lid, with the terracotta in the outer corner for definition. I'm betting it makes my eyes pop very blue. I didn't try that today. Sometimes anticipation is good.

Although the Castaway Collection is not as limited as Zeitgeist was, I predict it will sell out. Because it's is a limted-edition that will be available only Neiman Marcus Le Métier de Beauté counters, you should pre-order one if you want it. If you need help, give Michael Reinhardt or Chae Edwards a call at my favorite Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie counter at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258 or 2236. They are both there today. Naturally, you can also call your local Neiman Marcus to reserve one.

Update: The top row of this palette is the same as the top row of Zeitgeist. The confirmation came from the company.

P.S. (and entirely unrelated to the Castaway Collection for Face and Eye)...I got a little more scoop on the Las Vegas counter. See the comments on the Friday Forum for more information.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Aqualillies for Tarte Amazonian Clay Waterproof Eye and Cheek Palette Giveaway Contest

The centerpiece of Tarte's magnificent Aqualillies Collection for Summer 2013, inspired by and named after the talented and glamorous Aqualillies synchronized water ballet team, is the Aqualillies for Tarte Amazonian Clay Waterproof Eye and Cheek Palette ($38) - now sold out at Tarte, but still available at Sephora. It looked pretty when I first saw it in Tarte's press release. It's even prettier in person. This palette is a stunner - one of the best-ever from Tarte (I think).


Here's a link to my feature. You can see swatches of this palette in all its deliciousness. I knew this palette would be a knockout, so I bought an extra to give away when I bought mine. That helped me increase my total order to receive the tote gift with purchase (which I really wanted for its color).

Check out my feature, or admire the contents in this list.

• Amazonian Clay Shimmering Powder in Champagne
• Amazonian Clay Mineral Powder Bronzer in Park Ave Princess
• Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush in Captivating
• Amazonian Clay Eyeshadows in Hammock, Bikini, Barefoot, Parasol, Sun Deck, and Poolside

Remember, when you use Tarte cosmetics, you will be using makeup that is free of parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, tricolsan, sodium lauryl sulfate, and synthetic fragrances - no hormone distruptors. Tarte is cruelty-free too.

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.

You can earn a fourth entry if you have posted a comment here in the last two weeks. Don't worry about telling me. I'll know.

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

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

Photos courtesy of Tarte

Giorgio Armani Beauty Face & Eye Palette in Rose Bliss for Spring 2013

I said I was going to pass on Giorgio Armani's Rose Bliss Face & Eye Palette for Spring 2013 ($88). The Hibiscus shade (orchid on the second tier, far right) was too red for my tastes. I did, however, leave a tiny bit of room for it in my heart when I said I would ask Loyd Cassler to apply it for me. If Loyd could make it look good, it would leap into my arms.

I knew that was risky. Loyd can turn random notes into a song. Last weekend, he sat me down in his Chanel chair and applied all four shades.

Let's start with tier 1, the Rose Bliss Compact face powder with illuminating Micro-Fil technology for long lasting shimmer. Soft and creamy, the weightless powder melts into the skin to create a natural, silken finish. Because my skin is very fair, Loyd used it as a blush on me, and it was soft and stunning. It's very pale, as you can see below in my swatch photos. In fact, it bears no resemblance to the shade in the photo at the top of this feature. In that photo, it appears that someone put Coral Bliss into the Rose Bliss Palette.

In the second tier with the eye shadows, you will find Iced Pearl, Flesh, and Hibiscus. Iced Pearl and Flesh are very pale, with Flesh being especially pretty. Loyd used an eye shadow brush, of course, and applied Iced Pearl all over the lid. Then he topped it with Flesh.The below the crease, he applied a very light layer of Hibiscus. The overall effect was a very flattering ice pink. No wonder Armani says the colors were designed to layer and blend.

After I decided I loved it, he went into prankster mode and said, "Let me show you how it will look if you apply the orchid shade with a heavier hand." He handed me a mirror and told me to watch. He brushed it on, and I immediately pleaded, "Get that off me!" It was hideous. He wiped most of it off with his finger and covered the remaining jolt of color with the Iced Pearl shade. Voila, I had the look I liked restored.

I took swatch photos in full sun. I used sponge tipped applicators to apply the face powder (aka blush for me) at the top of my arm and the eye shades below. Because the shades are so sheer, with the exception of Hibiscus, it was very hard to get decent swatch photos. This is the best I could do.

I wanted to show you the shade of the three eye shadows blended - and applied with a brush. The photo below shows a close-up of how the result looked on my eyelids.

Not bad, huh? The icy pink, combined with the very light, sheer rose blush gave me a pastel look that was magazine-worthy. The white shade took all redness out of my lids, the gold added back a bit of warmth, and the orchid added the icy pink cast. Normally, I cannot wear pink on my lids. It tends to make my eyes look red. This shade didn't.

So, I caved happily. I will wear the Rose Bliss Face Powder often, and I will also use the shimmering white and flesh shadows regularly. The orchid shade will be saved for special occasions when I want to recreate the look Loyd demonstrated.

The new Face & Eye Palettes are limited editions. They are in stock at Saks Chevy Chase, where I purchased mine. I do not know if Armani's spring shades have arrived at Neiman Marcus. The palettes are also available at the Giorgio Armani Beauty Web site and at Nordstrom online.

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

Giorgio Armani Beauty Face & Eye Palette in Coral Bliss for Spring 2013

In January, I was able to show you a coming attraction of Giorgio Armani Beauty's Spring 2013 Pop Collection. Today, I can begin to show you the real thing. Naturally, I'm starting with the centerpiece of the collection: the limited-edition Face & Eye Palette ($88). There are two versions, Coral Bliss (#1), my favorite, shown above, and Rose Bliss, which I haven't purchased - yet.

“This Spring, I love the mix of vivid shades with nudes. Women are traditionally drawn to color, but afraid of it. This way they can play and customize to their own desires. At the Giorgio Armani Spring/Summer 2013 show. I used the soft grey tone to create a muted graphic shape, then a thick liner was drawn with Swimming Pool Turquoise blue, and then blended with the taupe. That gave a soft pop of glamorous, sensual color. Any woman can wear it," said Linda Cantello, International Makeup Artist for Giorgio Armani Cosmetics and creator of the spring collection.

When I saw Coral Bliss at Saks Fifth Avenue in Chevy Chase, Maryland, I flipped. It's stunning - even better than I had anticipated. I might have cried if it had sold out since I learned they had received it a week ago.

The two-level white compact sings spring. It's a departure for Armani, whose sleek, black palettes are a signature. The photo above shows the eye colors on the base level or second tier. The three luminous Color-Fil Satin eye shadows are an icy white (Open), taupe-grey (Shimmer Greige), and turquoise blue (Swimming Pool Turquoise). They were designed to blend and layer.

On the top tier, the Coral Bliss face powder (aka blush in my eyes and on my skin) is formulated with Armani's illuminating Micro-Fil technology for long-lasting wear. Soft and creamy, the weightless powder melts into skin to create a natural, silky finish.

I took swatch photos in full, morning sunshine. I applied all four shades fairly heavily with a sponge-tipped applicator. The first time I swatched/applied the powder, I almost hyperventilated over the center eye shade. It's exquisite.

The icy white is a very pretty silvery white. It applies beautifully and leaves a sheen finish. I have had no trouble achieving an even application. With other brands' shades in this color, I have often found even application difficult. The taupe-grey hybrid shade shows the complexity of magnificent color we've learned to expect from Giorgio Armani. The sheen finish is exquisite.

Then, there's the bright turquoise blue, and I know you're thinking that you couldn't possibly wear it. See below.

The Coral Bliss blush/powder is a beautiful peach. It's not coral, and it's stunning on the cheeks. The finish is satin nearing matte (but not flat matte - it's got life).

I decided to take a photo to show you how three of these shades look when applied lightly. I did use a sponge-tipped applicator, which does pick up more pigment than a brush would, but I wanted you to see how pretty the combination of the blue and taupe-grey could be. If applied lightly with a brush, you can achieve a wash of blue color that's what you might call wearable. I also wanted to show you how subtle the Coral Bliss shade can be.

I think I could wear the two eye shadow shades shown at the top of my arm during the late spring and summer. They look fabulous together. They are also flattered by the Coral Bliss powder below with its hint of peach to complement the eyes without stealing all the attention.

I think Coral Bliss is a definite buy. I was at Neiman Marcus Tysons Galleria this week, and the spring collection had not arrived. It is in stock at Saks Chevy Chase. I can give you Loyd's phone number if you'd like some help. While he's with Chanel now, he was the Giorgio Armani Beauty manager for a long time, and I always drag him over to play with colors at Armani. You can reach him at (240) 497-5363. The palettes are also available at the Giorgio Armani Beauty Web site.

I might go back this week to pick up Rose Bliss. The lavender pink shade is definitely not me, but the rest of the shades are pretty. I will go see how that shade blends with the others.

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

Le Métier de Beauté Barrett Beauty Collection Kaleidoscope Face Kit

While Dustin Lujan was unearthing buried treasure at the John Barrett Salon last week, he found some unsold Le Métier de Beauté Barrett Beauty Collection Kaleidoscope Face Kits ($95). Although the Barrett Beauty Collection is predominantly composed with classics from Le Métier de Beauté, it's a perfect Kaleidoscope for someone who wants a kit made of customer favorites.

You know I had to order one! The top level is the world-famous Refresh Eye Brightening and Setting Powder - something everyone should own and use. Refresh is a versatile product that gives a clean start to any eye look. It provides a healthy, bright canvass for any look you wish to create.

• Lightweight powder sets concealer and illuminates the eye area for a radiant, smooth, matte finish.
• Creates perfect upper lid canvas for eye shadow. Brightens area under the eyes.
• Micronized pigments will not settle in fine lines or accentuate shadows.
• Absorbs excess oils to create perfect canvas for makeup application.
• Provides crease resistant, long-wearing coverage.
• Suitable for all skin types.

The brown True Color Eye Shadow is Jojo. Everyone likes Jojo. As The Non-Blonde said, "Jojo is a perfect goes-with-everything neutral, so it might be time to give it the stage. Jojo is a warm sand color of medium intensity and a shimmery finish. It has a beautiful almost rosy cast that changes with the light and gives life and brightness to the eye area."

The Radiance Powder Rouge is Echo, a universally flattering blush shade with a hint of warmth. The Lip Crème on the bottom level is Barrett Beauty Peaches, clearly an exclusive to the salon.

This palette reminds me of the Flawless Kaleidoscope Face Kit because it offers colors everyone can wear. I took swatch photos in full, but very late afternoon sun - not ideal because it gives a very warm, sunset glow to everything, including my skin. I swatched all shades with a sponge-tipped applicator, presenting them top to bottom on my arm in the same order of the Kaleidoscope levels.

Refresh, as you can see, is flesh-toned. Jojo is a beautiful, shimmering bronze-brown that will light up anyone's look. Echo, applied very heavily here, is a beautiful warm shade that works on all skin tones. The light golden peach Barrett Beauty Peaches Lip Crème, perfects the look.

The Barrett Beauty Collection is perfect for travelers who don't want to carry a whole makeup bag. Just add foundation, mascara, and possibly eyeliner, and you'll have the essentials for an everyday look. It's also nice for those of us who stay put. It's a reach-for Kaleidoscope, one that could become a staple of your out-the-door, off-to-work look.

There may be a few of these Kaleidoscopes left at the John Barrett Salon. Give them a call at (212) 872-2714 to see if Dustin's found treasures are still available.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Sephora + PANTONE UNIVERSE Alchemy of Color Face Palette

Yowsers, this is pretty! Sephora + PANTONE UNIVERSE Alchemy of Color Face Palette ($30) reminded me of a new color "brand within a brand," but with a lot more pizazz. I hope you get my drift because I'm not going to fess up. Let's just say I haven't purchased any of those other brand's items.

Once again, Sephora has introduced extraordinary color makeup in a luxury magnetic-closure compact - this time with six shades to highlight, contour, sculpt, and define your look for the season, or any season. This new Alchemy of Color Face Palette will appeal to everyone, but especially to makeup "collectors."

Fall under the spell of the Alchemy of Color Collection, an enchanting collaboration between PANTONE UNIVERSE and Sephora that marries the shades of the season with exclusive formulation and finish. This versatile palette of silky, soft formulas contains light and dark shades with both matte and pearly finishes to create a natural-looking glow. Achieve a perfect flush with the high-pigment blushes and then wear a beautiful, sheer glow thanks to the airy, ultra-transparent base of the highlighting formulas. 

If you check out Pantone's Fall 2012 colors, you may wonder how Alchemy of Color fits in. Rose Smoke and Honey Gold are probably the connection. I wouldn't be excited by a face palette featuring French Roast. Maybe on the eyes, but...

I ordered this palette from Sephora sight-unseen, and I could not have been more pleased when it arrived. These colors are brilliant - even if my photo directly above is a bit dark. Sometimes, the brilliance of white distracts my camera, and there's a lot of white in this compact's case.

I took swatch photos in an unconventional way. You can see in the palette that there is a narrow strip of color at the top left and bottom right. I blended that color with the shade next to it. So, on my arm, you will see four shades - two of them are blended. I took my swatch photos in full sun, and I swatched heavily with a sponge-tipped applicator.

I drooled. Fortunately I was outdoors. You must consider that this palette costs $30, a bargain. I buy a lot of luxury makeup, and Alchemy of Color is extremely competitive with most of it.

The top shade on my arm is one of the blends. It's a gorgeous copper-rose. The pink below (upper right in the palette) is a warm pink on my skin - one with plenty of pigmentation. It's a pretty blush.

The shimmering, icy pink is a blend of the two side-by-side pinks in the bottom row. The bright, shimmering gold is simply stunning. You can apply these colors dry, as I did above for my photos, or wet for even more brilliance and longer wear.I like them dry because they offer enough wattage for my complexion. I like subtle color.

These colors apply perfectly - no duds in the bunch. I'm in love. Whoever hooked up with PANTONE UNIVERSE at Sephora deserves a raise.

This new palette is exclusive to Sephora. I purchased mine online. What do you think?

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

Giorgio Armani Beauty Yeux Teint Face & Eye Palette in Neo-Black from the Easy Chic Collection for Fall 2012

Giorgio Armani has introduced avant-garde makeup for Fall 2012. The Easy Chic Collection is available in two "classic harmonies," neither of which seem classic to me. I previewed the collection here. I featured the Neo-Classic Palette in #2, Neo-Brown here. Now that I finally have Neo-Black in my hands. I'm ready to give you my impressions.

The new signature Neo-Classic Face & Eye Palettes ($88) - in Neo-Brown and Neo-Black - look snazzy. They feature a black lacquered double-tiered case with a magnetic closure inspired by the Rouge d'Armani Lipsticks.

On the first tier, you'll find a feather-light powder with micronized particles of Micro-Fil technology to illuminate the skin with the signature Armani glow. On the second tier, you'll find two matte eye shadows in intense hues and a shimmering illuminator/shadow - also formulated with Micro-Fil technology.

The Neo-Black Palette includes a transparent face powder in Sheer Beige, teamed with Soft Beige, Taupe, and Jet Black Eye Shadows. As much as I adore and live in Giorgio Armani Beauty products, I think Mr. Armani (or Linda Cantello) missed the mark with Neo-Black (#1).

The top level is a powder, supposedly a transparent face powder. I'm not sure whose skin they had in mind. For my fair skin, it's way too dark to serve as a face powder, yet too light to be considered a useful bronzer. The model above cannot be wearing it as a face powder. It's too dark.

The lower level has one beautiful shade, the brown that looks grey in the palette, plus the black. They are mice-enough eye shadows, but they aren't unique. I don't think anyone will consider them must-haves. See what you think in my swatch photos below. I applied the shades heavily, and I swatched with a sponge-tipped applicator. My photos were taken in late-afternoon sun, but with a light cloud cover.

Ho hum. The powder, shown at the top of my arm, is a warm, slightly peachy powder. I applied it heavily to get the color you see in my photos. I don't know anyone whose skin that color. I'm not sure how it was intended to be used. This level really should have housed a blush, like #2, Neo-Brown.

The shimmering eye shadow/highlighter is gorgeous, a shimmering beige - very pretty and useful. The cool, intense brown belies its appearance in the palette - nice enough, but not a necessity if you have Neo-Brown. The black? Uninspiring. Who needs another black eyeliner?  Who needs a black eye shadow? Who needs a black eye? Not me!

I feel guilty writing a less than stellar review of a Giorgio Armani Beauty product. I live in Armani. I love Armani. Given the price, I could easily have passed on this Neo-Classic Yeux Teint Face & Eye Palette. I'm sure there's a customer for it; it's just not me. I'm too conservative. I'd recommend you give Neo-Brown a look-see if you want a new treat from Armani - or one of the new Rouge d'Armani shades.

The new Easy Chic Face & Eye Palettes are currently available at Nordstrom's Web site (and stores where there is an Armani counter). They have not been posted at the Giorgio Armani Beauty Web site, and they have not arrived at all stores that offer Giorgio Armani cosmetics. They will arrive soon, I'm sure. It's just so easy to shop online at Nordstrom, with its free shipping and relatively quick delivery.

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