The Friday Forum - February 12

This is the first time I remember Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus having their Beauty Events during same date period. They have overlapped in the past, but not so totally. The Saks tote is shown above. I'm hoping that little puff can be removed. The silver bag looks nice. I'm planning to head over to Saks Chevy Chase tomorrow - in the cold.

Saks posted this beautiful photo of Dolce & Gabbana and Gucci on its Web site. I have been hoping Neiman Marcus Mazza would bring Gucci into the store. It's available on the Web site, but not in my local stores.

Yesterday, I had a divine complimentary one-hour facial by Barbara (from Bergdorf Goodman) at Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie. She will be back next week (February 17, I think, but confirm that with Michael Reinhardt if you are local to DC. I highly recommend you go! Michael and his counter partner Andy can be reached at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258.

It looks bright outside. I have Chanel photos to take, but there is significant cloud cover. I'm waiting to see if the clouds burn off mid-day. I really want to show you the new Chanel lipstick, Rouge Coco Stylo Complete Care Lipshine. I need to show you as the Beauty Events start. I've also promised to get new Chantecaille swatch photos. I would have taken them yesterday, but I forgot to take my camera over to Neiman Marcus. If we get socked in with clouds this weekend, I'll feature some fabulous fragrances. I haven't forgotten that comment asking for fragrance features.

For those of you who have enjoyed following Monsieur Guerlain on Facebook, he's back! I'm pleased. He is inspirational, and his knowledge of the Guerlain fragrances is almost unparalleled.

There are some fabulous weekend discounts to be used. The best in my opinion? Beautyhabit is offering 20% off of your $100 purchase with the code LOVE20. The wonderful niche fragrance line Imaginary Authors is offering free shipping with purchases of $30 or more through February 15. Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram have been filled with special offers. If you like certain brands, make sure to follow them on social media to save money.

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 you are ready to share.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Update 2/13: The Saks tote is not silver. It is white with what looks like gold throughout. It's a great bag for summer. The puffy ornament does come off. You will have your choice of blue (best in my opinion), black, or white.

Photos courtesy of a friend at Saks and Saks Fifth Avenue

Le Métier de Beauté - Poised to Stun at the Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie Trend and Beauty Events

As most, if not all, of you know, Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie offers a tote bag containing samples as a GWP at its Beauty Events. If you spend $125 in Beauty from February 13 to 28, you will have a choice of a gold or orange tote. The orange one resembles the Hermès signature color. I like them both. The real treats, though, are at specific brands offering GWPs. Le Métier de Beauté at Mazza Gallerie is ready to pamper and reward you - not only at Beauty Event, but also at Trend Event. (I know, even I'm confused.)

This year, the Mazza Gallerie store also has a fashion Trend Event that will, for the first time, reward fashion purchases of $350 or more with a beauty gift. The Trend Event starts today and ends on February 17.

Two new Le Métier de Beauté skin-care products have arrived in time for both events, They are shown under the flowers above. I tried both products in the store and was impressed. Vital ET Recovery Boost Face ($250) is formulated with a potent dose of vitamin E to protect against free radicals and reduce overall redness. Vital ET Recovery Boost Face is rich and absorbs "deep into the skin" to instantly hydrate and restore, leaving skin radiant, rejuvenated, and intensely moisturized. Unlike other pore-clogging moisturizers, this oil-free moisturizer absorbs into the skin for faster results.

Vital ET Recovery Boost Body ($125) is also formulated with a vitamin E that helps to prevent free radicals from doing future damage to your skin. It rescues and restores extreme cases of dry, dehydrated skin like mine. It felt heavenly after application. With a highly concentrated topical recovery treatment, this formula is quickly absorbed to shield skin, replenish lost moisture, soften, and soothe. It is intended to be applied daily (I would use before bed) to maintain hydrated skin that looks and feels great.

If you spend $350 at Le Métier de Beauté during the Trend Event, you will receive your choice of the Brigitte Kaleidoscope (a $95 value), shown at the top of this feature, or the new Vital ET Recovery Boost Face ($250). To my knowledge, you cannot purchase Brigitte, a warm, adventurous, and alluring combination of colors that can be worn alone, or blended/layered to create a neutral smoky eye. It's really flexible. Neiman Marcus provided one for me (gratis) to swatch and show you the beautiful colors. Michael Reinhardt used it on me last week when he did my makeup, and I was smitten.

I swatched, starting at the top tier of the Kaleidoscope and moving down. The top tier is St. Tropez, a perfect neutral, lightening base. You can barely see it at the top of my arm in the photo above. I took my photos of Brigitte in full sun, and I swatched with a sponge-tipped applicator (not terribly neatly, I'm afraid - it was cold outside). Le Métier de Beauté recommends applying Séduction (the grey on the second tier) from your lash line to your natural crease. The third tier is Liberté, a gorgeous copper. You could gently press it over your entire eyelid, or apply however you like to wear copper. I'd apply it in my crease and the outer third of my lid. Deux, the fourth tier, is a medium charcoal grey. Michael applied it on me as a liner, smudged over a liquid, waterproof liner. Brigitte is one of the prettiest Kaleidoscopes I've used in months. I love it because I can wear it during the day. I don't get out much at night anymore - it's winter.

Moving on to the Beauty Event, which runs from February 13 to 28, if you spend $400 with Le Métier de Beauté, you will receive a cosmetics bag with a brand new, full-sized lipstick called Cerise (pink) and a one-time-use sample of the company's new Red Algae Collagen Mask (not yet introduced), and a deluxe travel size of the new Instant Lifting and Firming Serum (to be launched in April, $350). If you spend $500, you will also receive a step-up gift of the Chem60 Pro-Peel (full size, $165).

Wait, there's more. On February 11 and 17, you can make an appointment for a complimentary facial with Barbara, Le Métier de Beauté's aesthetician. I was treated to her facial a few months ago, and I felt pampered. My skin looked fabulous when she finished with me. I may go back for another tomorrow.

On February 25, Hylton Lea, the Global Director of Skincare, will lead a master class. That same day, a national makeup artist from Dallas will be at the store doing makeup consultations and applications.

If you want to participate in the facial, master class, or makeup session, you should call Michael Reinhardt (or Andy) at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258, to make an appointment. Otherwise, you can stop in anytime during the events, and Michael or Andy will help you with skin care or makeup.

Have I totally confused you? Michael would be glad to help you if you don't have a Neiman Marcus near you. I really don't know if all stores are having the same events or GWPs.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Sunday This and That at Neiman Marcus

I had a lovely time at Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie yesterday, but last night I learned that I had totally blown the chance of a lifetime. I wanted to kill myself (figuratively speaking). Charlie tried to give me a heart attack too, but more about that later.

Project Beauty was a runway presentation of the latest from many brands available at Neiman Marcus. Kathy Shoreman, shown above, was there to represent RéVive. She gave a lovely, informative, and enthusiastic presentation. I know she will kill me, if I don't do it myself - for publishing this photo. She's beautiful in person. The photo? Not so good, but the best of the three I snapped. Someday, I'll get a better one.

Look there in the audience before the show started! The beauties from Chantecaille. I got them to pose, and with the slight turn toward me, Celeste looked amazingly sexy. Celeste Aman is shown on the left, and Jeannine Barnes on the right, both in black. I love those two.

Mary Lynn, Guerlain's perfect fragrance ambassador, and she seemed to be accompanied by a tall, slender, nice-looking man. I had no idea who he was. Then last night, Jonathan called me from the Guerlain Boutique in Las Vegas. I told him about her energetic appearance, and I asked him who the man might have been. I described him, and Jonathan instantly said, "Marcus Monson." I nearly died. How long have I wanted to meet him after hearing your glowing descriptions of his makeup artistry? No one introduced him, and I'm still not sure it was he. I almost don't want to know because I might descend into despair. I never waded into the Guerlain crowd to check out the doings - mostly because I was in pain. My body was telling me, "Enough." So, Eileen and others, I blew it.

While I was talking to Jonathan, Charlie decided to jump onto my bureau and knock over hundreds of dollars, if not thousands, of bottles of perfume. I had to ask Jonathan to hold on while I scooped up the bottles, hoping Charlie had done no permanent damage. He was in the doghouse after that. If you are in the market for Guerlain fragrance, give Jonathan a call at (702) 732-7008. He will wait while you have a cat emergency. Nice guy.

I did come home from the event with an embarrassment of riches from Chanel and Le Métier de Beauté, and I'll be featuring them all week. It's ironic that one set comes from a Holiday 2013 collection, while the other is Spring 2014.

The event was lots of fun. I hope Mazza decides to do it again.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Universalis Eau de Toilette and Forte Eau de Parfum

A couple of years ago, I purchased Maison Francis Kurkdjian's Aqua Universalis ($175 to $235) at Neiman Marcus. It's divine and a perfect holiday gift. Everyone likes it.

According to his biography, Francis Kurkdjian was not born in Grasse as many French perfumers were, nor did he come from a long family heritage of French perfumers. As a child, he studied piano and dance. A lovely piano melody plays as you peruse his Web site. It's so calming, you should visit when you want to relax!

At age 15 (when most of use haven't determined our future course), he decided he would become a perfumer, and in 1995, when he was 25, he created his first perfume, La Male, for Jean Paul Gaultier. Since then, he has created dozens of fragrances, and you know their names, even if you don't know his. Aqua di Parma Iris Nobile, Dior Cologne Blanche and Eau Noire, F by Ferragamo, and Emmanuel Ungaro are just a few. His work as a perfumer reached a milestone in 2009 (some sources say 2008) when he opened Maison Francis Kurkdjian in Paris.

Aqua Universalis Eau de Parfum is a fragrance for "everything, everyone, and all days." The name is Latin for "Universal Water," and the scent does what it says on the bottle. Francis Kurkdjian calls it the missing link between skin, clothes, bed linens, and the air, and he’s spot on. This light, sparkling eau de toilette could be spritzed by anyone, anywhere, anytime – but you’ll probably want to save it for your skin, since you can scent your house with the Aqua Universalis candle or incense paper and launder your clothes with the matching detergent.

The notes begin with a strong unisex fragrance of bergamot and lemon from Sicily. When you first apply the fragrance, it's almost masculine - certainly unisex. It starts to dry down quickly, though, and as it does, the lily of the valley and sweet mock orange white flower bouquet take over. From that point forward, it's soft and feminine. The fragrance culminates in sheer perfection with light and musky woods. It's not terribly long-lasting (a shame), but if you like it, reapply!

Since I purchased my first fragrance from Kurkdjian, I have purchased others. I was one of the first to buy Aqua Universalis Forte ($275), a more intense, longer-lasting version of the original. This olfactory composition has the same "sunny" emotions, but adds the memory, sparkle, and intensity to the citrus charm and white flowers of the "classical" Aqua Universalis. The result is the fabulous, precious, sought-after "sillage" or lingering trail left by the fragrance. Sicilian citron is still there, but with another bergamot chosen this time for its greener, more brilliant, sparkling notes.

The nobility of a bouquet of white flowers - lily of the valley and seringa - elevated by the absolutes of Egyptian jasmine flowers and Moroccan roses. The fullness of light woods as a base note, brought to the fore by a more sustained musky accord. And finally, an exceptional concentration on par with an extract.In short, an aerial fragrance, at once light and powerful like gold in summer.

You can find Aqua Universalis at Neiman Marcus and LuckyScent.

Photo courtesy of Neiman Marcus

Neiman Marcus Gift of Scent Event

Today was the start of the Neiman Marcus Scent Event. With your $100 purchase in fragrance, you will receive a lace evening bag and a few samples, all shown below.

The event runs through Sunday, December 1.  There are brand GWPs too. If you are planning to cruise the fragrance department, now's the time to do it.

Photos courtesy of thesomersetcollection and Neiman Marcus

Sunday This and That - Tom Ford Fête at Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie

I arrived at the Tom Ford counter for Friday's Tom Ford Fragrance fête, and was struck by the glamorous flowers. Yes, friends, that is an original Gene Davis at the top of my photo. The artwork in the store is amazing.

I took photos with flash and without, which may make these snapshots look like they were taken at two different events. Trust me; they were all taken Friday.

Most of my photos are of Jason Layden, Tom Ford representative, and the most darling 88-year-old woman I've met in a long time. I talked to her for hours while I waited for my lost friend to show up. She is a long-time customer and she walked uptown to get to the party! I had a hard time walking from the car with my bum knee.

I purposely left out the full view of Jason, who was wearing a large, post-surgical shoe/boot. I'd rather see that happy smile anyhow.

Can you believe this stylish lady is 88? I want her skin - and her glasses. She's got great taste in chocolates too.

It was a great party. Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie knows how to entertain.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Neiman Marcus The Book Shopping

A few nights ago, I went through The Book playing a little game. I filled out a spreadsheet, answering the following questions.

1. Do I like it?
2. Would I wear it? Does it fit into my life?
3. Can I afford to buy it?
4. If I had the money, would I buy it?

Do you ever play those games? I think it's fun. Here are some of my entries. I snagged a few photos from the online Book.

I love this Prada handbag ($1890). Blue and green are my favorite colors (this bag is also available in red and orange. I love the shoulder strap. I can't always carry a bag with handles only. I must have a shoulder strap, and I noticed a movement toward them for this season. That makes me very happy. Answers to my questions: 1. Yes. 2. Yes, 3. No. 4. Yes.

Another bag that caught my eye was this one from Gucci ($2,300). I think it's beautiful. Unfortunately, it is python, which is a major negative for me. So, 1. Yes. 2. No (you have to stick to your principles). 3. No. 4. No.

Also in handbags, take a look at the Saint Laurent green one on page 97 of The Book. The calfskin bag ($2,150) is stunning. 1. Yes. 2. Yes. 3. No. 4. Yes. This issue is laden with accessories that are to-die-for.

This flouncy, gorgeous dress ($1,995) was designed by Prabal Gurung (who?). The blue print silk and cotton dress telegraphs pretty. Click on the photo to enlarge it to see the beautiful print. 1. Yes. 2. Yes. 3. No. 4. Yes

I love the color block dress from Michael Kors ($1,895). I wouldn't be able to wear it because it's wool, so non-lined parts at the neck and shoulders would leave me in a state of itchiness. However, if it weren't allergic, my answers would be as follows. 1. Yes. 2. Yes. 3. No. 4. Yes. I would be out looking for the knock-off.

This rather simple dress from Oscar de la Renta ($6,790) is divine. With contrasts of navy and ivory, it suits me to a T. 1. Yes. 2. Yes. 3. No. 4. No. I'm not that crazy.

Here is the Rebecca Taylor light blue lambskin jacket ($995) that made me hyperventilate. I even went to look for it in the store, and it's every bit as beautiful. 1. Yes. 2. Yes. 3. Yes (if I stretch). 4. Yes.

After I added up the amounts I could have spent with my answers to #3 and #4, I decided that Neiman Marcus put together some very tempting looks this season. See what you think!

Photos courtesy of Neiman Marcus

Le Métier de Beauté "Step-up" Gift with Purchase at Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie

The "regular" Le Métier de Beauté Gift with Purchase (GWP) during Neiman Marcus's Beauty Event is a snazzy liquid eyeliner in Bark. Even better, Michael Reinhardt can offer you a step-up GWP, a duo in a black, monogrammed pouch: a Brown as a Berry True Color Eyeshadow Duo and a mini Anamorphic Lash Mascara. This gift is so good, I'd pay for it! You can't though. It's free with a qualifying Le Métier de Beauté purchase.

The eye shadow colors are so pretty, I swatched them heavily before I started swatching the Melange de Colour Fashion Eye Palette (which has been interrupted as I wait for the clouds to roll by and leave me with the sunny sky I was promised). I swatched Brown as a Berry with a sponge-tipped applicator and took my photos in full, morning sun.

The fleshy, dusty peach-rose is a hard shade to categorize, other than by the use of a word like "stunning." A  heaven-sent taupe perfects this magnificent duo. Both shades offer a subtle sheen - not a shimmer, but a look-at-me liveliness that's ultra-flattering.

Why has this eye shadow duo not been available since the founding of Le Métier de Beauté? Where has it been hiding? How can you get it?

Call (or visit) Michael Reinhardt at Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie. Ask for Michael. Tell him Best Things in Beauty sent you and work with him to select your new Le Métier de Beauté treasures. You can reach him at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258 or 2236. I believe the Melange de Colour Fashion Eye Palette, as I warned, is nearly sold out, however, Michael can try to get you one from another store. Don't delay!

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

The Friday Forum - December 14 Plus the New Le Métier de Beauté Lip Envy by Tina West Kaleidoscope Eye Kit

The occasion? Last night, Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie hosted a special event to introduce Dr. Tina West and the new Le Métier de Beauté Lip Envy by Tina West Kaleidoscope Eye Kit (95), with Le Métier de Beauté generously donating a percent of yesterday's sales to THEARC. THEARC is a non-profit organization that has its hands in many good causes, including an organic garden, farmer's market, and a 365-seat, state-of-the-art community theater.

I came home with the new Tina West Kaleidoscope - of course - and I will get swatch photos for you today.  The photo of the tester above was taken in the store last night.

The program started with an informative presentation by Dr. West on cosmetic procedures. I fear I caught her mid-blink as I snapped this photo. She looked fabulous in her trendy navy leather dress. It's so much more friendly than a white coat!

The audience was rapt as she talked about the most popular procedures, e.g., botox and fillers, but also as she introduced us to new procedures that can prevent skin cancer, firm skin, and take years off our appearance - all without the major surgery or ugly recovery periods we normally associate with cosmetic dermatology procedures. I'm seriously interested in a consultation. If you are too, you can find Dr. West in Chevy Chase at (301) 986-9378.

We also had the privilege to be joined by Jerry Mastellon, one of Le Métier de Beauté's three founders. I enjoyed having a chance to catch up with Jerry. I'll bet it's been over a year since I last saw him - at a Nordstrom Trend Show. I remember where, just not the date.

The beautiful new Lip Envy Kaleidocsope? Designed by Michael Reinhardt, in consultation with Dr. West, it's a stunner. There's one waiting for you at Neiman Marcus Mazza. Just call Michael Reinhardt at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258 or 2236, to place your order.

Thanks to Neiman Marcus Mazza's glamorous models, I am now lusting for a few holiday fashions. Every time I see these two glamazons, I end up buying something. This time, I'm thinking it will be those slim, high-waisted Akris trousers with the satin finish.

Now you know what I've been up to. Let's talk about your week of beauty. It's time for the Friday Forum, our open chat. I love this part of our week. Have you selected your favorite holiday collection - and purchased a few new treasures? What new products did you discover this week? Did you find any deals you couldn't resist? Are you using a fabulous product and want to sing its praises? Did you find a beauty product disappointing? Do you have a question others might be able to answer? Want to talk about skin care? What's new in your life? Just use the comments. Don't be shy. Just make sure to ask any question you might have over the weekend. By early the next week, most (not all) readers will have moved on.

Here are a few tidbits for you.

• The Chantecaille Friends & Family sale ends today. Everything I'd like to have has sold out, so I fear I will miss this fabulous opportunity to stock up on one of my very favorite makeup and skin-care brands. I wish I had known it was coming. I would have purchased one of everything.
• The Guerlain Spring 2013 collection has, as always, some gorgeous colors. Even though I had already ordered them directly from Guerlain, I purchased seconds of the Shine Automatiques. They are exquisite.
• Chanel's 2013 Spring collection is now arriving at Chanel counters everywhere. Here's a  quickly snapped photo of part of it at Neiman Marcus.

Don't forget this week's giveaway contest. The deadline to enter to win the NARS Multiple Duo in Orgasm and South Beach is tomorrow, Saturday, December 15, at midnight. It's a beauty.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Neiman Marcus Fall Beauty Event Starts September 6

The Art of Beauty, Neiman Marcus' fall Beauty Event starts Thursday, September 6, and runs through September 16. The tote bags - well, two of them - are gorgeous. With a $100 purchase in store or online, you'll receive a tote with a few samples inside. Having seen these bags, I must tell you that I think the blue, which is really navy, and the silver are fabulous. I find the acid green a little too too - even if all shades of green are "in" for fall.

As you know, this is the time to purchase the things you've wanted or to stock up on the staples of your beauty routine. There are many gifts with purchase (GWPs) in the department, and many of them are fabulous. That said, the "price of admission" for a GWP is usually high. To see them all, go to this link.

I'll show you some of my favorites here, and I'll give you the names and phone numbers of my favorite representatives who would be pleased to assist you.

Everything RéVive makes is fabulous. It's one of my favorite skin-care lines. This cute little silver bag has four products (deluxe samples) inside: 0.25 oz Intensite Creme Lustre, 2 oz Tonique Preparatif, 0.20 oz Masque de Yeux, and 0.5 oz Fermitif Neck Renewal Cream. If you purchase $350 worth of RéVive products, which is easy to do, you will receive this nice sampler. Give Anna Befanis a call at the Tysons Galleria store at (703) 761-1600, extension 3296.

Another favorite of mine is Sisley, and I must stock up on my favorites because I want this gift. Sisley's GWP is always fabulous, and this year's is no different. In the cute floral-print bag, you'll find the following goodies, several of which I use regularly.

• Lyslait, 30 ml
• Tonique Aux Fleurs, 30 ml
• Hydra-Global Tube, 10 ml
• Sisleya Contour Des Yeux Tube, 2 ml
• Sisleya Global Fermete Tube, 3 ml
• Phyto-Svelt Global Tube, 15 ml
• Fluide Hydratant Eau De Cologne Sachet, 10 ml
• Phyto-Teint Eclat N°2 Sachet, 2 ml 

Call Loula Ayoub at Tysons at (703) 761-1600, extension 3230 or Vicki Hamilton at Mazza Gallerie at (202) 966-9700, extension 2288. You must spend $350 to earn this fabulous gift.

The Le Métier de Beauté GWP is a travel-sized Peau Vierge Tinted Luminizer in #2. It will be yours with a $125 purchase. As many of you know, Peau Vierge is a product unlike any others. I'm sorry that the gift is only available in shade #2. While #2 works for most women, it's too dark for me (sad). I'm a #1. There are plenty of other things I'd like to have, and who knows, maybe this GWP will show up on my blog in a weekly giveaway. For help with Le Métier de Beauté, call Michael at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258 or 2236. Try Sabrina Autera at (877) 634-6269 at Westchester or Sara Wren at King of Prussia at (610) 962-6200.

Chantecaille's GWP is a pretty pink bag with three deluxe samples and a sample of Chantecaille's Tiare fragrance. It will be yours with a purchase of $175. The deluxe samples are Rice & Geranium Foaming Cleanser, Stress Repair Concentrate, and Biodynamic Lifting Neck Cream - all products I love. Give Jeannine Barnes a call at (202) 966-9700, extension 2289.

The Edward Bess GWP if amazing. With a $125 purchase, you'll receive this gorgeous cream illumintor. Since we don't have a counter here, I'll be ordering Edward Bess online. I want this beauty!

There are many wonderful fragrance GWPs. Explore and then call Francesca Camacho or Wendy Grigelis in fragrance at Tysons at (703) 761-1600, extension 3303, or Jason Layden at Mazza at (202) 966-9700, extension 2385.

Every one of the representatives I've named is superb and will go above and beyond to help you. You might want to mention Best Things in Beauty - not that it's necessary, but I'm sure you'll be pegged a special beauty customer if you do.

What I've shown you doesn't scratch the surface. Have I whet your appetite? Mine is certainly revved. I'll start shopping in earnest tomorrow night at a preview. I need a few things, and I'm sure I'll purchase a few new-to-me products just for fun. I want that navy bag! Actually, I'd like to have the silver one too.

Update: Lancôme anyone? Call Jocelyn at Tysons or Jodie Hawk at Mazza. For Natura Bissé, call Denise Thomas at (703) 761-1600, extension 3305. Fresh? Call Alison Kauffman at Tysons. Jo Malone? Call Sydell at Mazza. I have so many "bests," I can't list them all. Feeling badly about that. I'll add more later. I must leave for work!

Photos courtesy of Neiman Marcus

The Friday Forum - August 31

What a week! I've been very busy at work plus "suffering" from an unusual summer sinus infection, which has left me very tired. I'm looking forward to this three-day weekend. I'm hoping to relax and do some Neiman Marcus Beauty Event shopping to ensure that my treasures will be ready for me the day the event begins, September 6.

Speaking of Neiman Marcus, you might want to check out some of the new fragrances that should be available for the event.

Remember I told you about Houbigant Paris' Oranges en Fleurs? I now have it, and it's gorgeous!  This beautifully sophisticated fragrance is centered around the warm head notes of orange blossom. A heart of Turkish rose and Egyptian jasmine is highlighted by a subtle combination of tuberose and orange leaf absolute. The accord is delicately balanced by the fresh floral note of ylang, slightly spiced with nutmeg. I can't even put into words how gorgeous it is. Even the packaging and bottle are beautiful. Try it!

I also purchased Eaudemoiselle de Givenchy. It is a "couture" fragrance dressed up in contrasts. Here are the notes.

• Top: mandarin orange, Italian winter lemon, and shiso
• Heart: Turkish rose, ylang ylang heart, and orange blossom
• Base: ambrette seeds, cedar, tonka beans, and crystal musk

It's a gorgeous fragrance, and you must smell it. I also purchased the mist, which leaves a tiny bit of iridescence on the skin.

One year ago, Elie Saab Eau de Parfum captured the hearts of fragrance lovers everywhere. Now, Elie Saab has introduced an Eau de Toilette, which reveals an extra touch of lightness and versatility. The notes of mandarin blossom, orange blossom, gardenia, vetiver, and honey rose are sure to charm you. I'm charmed. If you like light fragrances (that won't offend anyone), this will be a good choice.

There's also a new-to-me line of fragrances called Eight & Bob. I'm looking forward to catching a whiff. More to come after I do.

Interested in exploring a niche fragrance? How about Hindu Honeysuckle ($115) by Providence Perfume Company? This was a recent purchase for me, and I'm captivated by it. You can find it at Beautyhabit, where there is a sale this weekend. Use the code SUNNYDAYS for a 20% discount through September 3. There are exclusions, but Hindu Honeysuckle isn't among them.

From India with Love...Revered for its lush aroma, honeysuckle symbolizes generosity and kindness. Notes of sweet Indian Jasmine Sambac meld with green vetiver, musk ambrette, rose, and coriander. Crisp bergamot belies the sweetness of honeysuckle.

What more can I tell you? It's divine - everything I had expected and more. Even as I write, my nose is nuzzling my arm, where I left a little of this intoxicating scent.

I want to tell you about an event at the Neiman Marcus in Westchester, New York.  Le Métier de Beauté representative Sabrina Autera will be hosting a Beauty Master Class on Saturday, September 8, from 1:00-2:30 pm. The class will provide will skin care and makeup lessons, including individual makeovers. As at the classiest Neiman Marcus events, there will be Champagne and little finger foods circulating - enough to make you feel good while you learn how to look good. If I lived closer, I'd be there. If you live within driving distance, call Sabrina at (877) 634-6269 to save your spot.

Perhaps you heard it here first? Dustin Lujan will not be leaving Le Métier de Beauté. I'm beyond excited! He won't be based at Bergdorf Goodman, but you'll see him around the East Coast - yea!

That's enough for my news and treasures right now.  Let's talk your week of beauty. It's time for the Friday Forum, our open chat. What new products did you discover this week? Did you find any deals you couldn't resist? Are you using a fabulous product and want to sing its praises? Did you find a beauty product disappointing? Do you have a question others might be able to answer? Want to talk about skin care? What's new in your life? Just use the comments. Don't be shy. Just make sure to ask any question you might have over the weekend. By early the next week, most (not all) readers will have moved on.

Don't forget to enter this week's giveaway contest. You could win the Bobbi Brown Pretty Powerful Pretty Palette for Eyes, Lips & Cheeks. The deadline is tomorrow, Saturday, September 1, at midnight.

Happy Labor Day weekend!

Photos courtesy of Neiman Marcus and Providence Perfume Company

Neiman Marcus: The Art of Style - Fall 2012 Trends

Last weekend, Neiman Marcus at Tysons Galleria treated a few member of the press to a preview of Fall 2012 fashion, beauty, and home trends. I was lucky to be invited - to learn and drool. What's "in" for the coming season?  We got to see, hold in some cases, and experience autumn. Here's "the list."

Mixed Greens. Solo or in combination, greens are the color for fall. Greens will spruce up any wardrobe - and fit right in with mine.

Navy. The New Neutral. Navy! Finally, navy is back in style, after way too many years of black. Pair it with black (which Giorgio Armani did long ago) or brights.

The Jacket. The menswear trend, a tailored jacket, goes over everything, even evening dresses. Keep it at the top of your mind.

The Smoking Slipper. This flats lover is overwhelmed with the gorgeous offerings for fall. The luxury loafer and embellished flats are "flat-out chic."

The Leather Leg. Second-skin tight or cut like a trouser, leather has legs this fall.

The Statement Handbag. Size, shape, and details speak volumes. Wear it in green or navy for the trendiest look.

Borrowed from the Boys. Menwear influences are all over tailored fashions for women.

Digital Prints. Patterns made modern adorn everything from jeans to dresses.

Brooches. Finally, you can bring out grandma's brooches - or new ones - and be right in style. One brooch adds newness; a cluster adds drama.

The Fall Face. Get juiced with the cherry lip. Red is big for fall and winter, and the shade of the season is cherry. Nathaly Callado was modeling the cherry red lip as she showed us the latest in beauty.

What else caught my eye? I flipped over this David Yurman bracelet. For a mere $8,500, I could have it!

This is one of the most exciting fall seasons I've seen in the last few years. Now, I'm off to buy a Powerball ticket.

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

Neiman Marcus "Beauty Event Excitement Disorder"

If you look closely, you can see the symptoms of Neiman Marcus Beauty Event Excitement Disorder (BEED). The skin looks fresh, lineless, and hydrated. The makeup is perfect. The fragrance wafting from the patient is divine. The only thing strange about the patient is the crazed look in her eyes - the equivalent of a sugar high. Crafty psychologists recognize the disorder immediately. "Have you been at Neiman Marcus lately, say in the last week or so?" Yes, how did you know?

I'm definitely "suffering" from BEED. In the last 10 days, I've made five trips to two different Neiman Marcus stores - Tysons Galleria and Mazza Gallerie - and every one has been delightful. I've been wined and dined and treated to the best Neiman Marcus has to offer. I fell in love with an $1,800 Etro jacket (how will I ever afford that?). Today, I spent most of my day at Neiman Marcus, at both stores, of course!

I've had two facials in two days. I told you about my Natura Bissé Pure Air Bubble Diamond White Facial on Thursday evening. If I needed any proof that it was magnificent, there was "buzz" at Neiman Marcus when I arrived that my skin looked amazing. I think that's fabulous (or perhaps those who saw me were themselves suffering from BEED). It validated my view that the bubble facial was life-altering. I'm now plotting to set up the bubble in my spare bedroom and fly in Alexis every few days for a spruce-up.

Today, I had a RéVive facial. My skin looked so hydrated and so even-toned afterwards, no one commented on my lack of makeup. Not only was the facial fabulous, I got to visit with my friend John Gates, who had taken the train from New York to assist with RéVive's special day at Tysons. If you ever need help with RéVive, please call Anna Befanis at (703) 761-1600, extension 3295. She is a real pro - and a sweetheart too.

When I was at Tysons, I found out Connie Widener-Malott, Chantecaille's Head US Trainer, was at Mazza. Into my car I flew, fueled by BEEDS. I haven't seen Connie in at least six months, and I was dying to visit with her. As soon as Connie saw my makeup-free face, she offered to apply the new Coral Reefs Palette. In five minutes, she transformed me into a Chantecaille beauty. It sometimes happens that I return home after a makeup application and wash my face. Not this time! I wish I were going out. Connie is incredibly talented.

I also had fun with the dapper Wil Galvez, talking about fragrance - and, of course, Valentina. I learned that there's a body oil coming. I can't wait! Lisa Lingis, Le Métier de Beauté's gorgeous regional representative was at Tysons, and I visited with Michael Reinhardt at Mazza and Lisa Corsina at Tysons. I love my Le Métier de Beauté friends. All of the beautiful Sisley ladies at both stores were warm and fun. The flowers in the photo above were Sisley's cure for our need for spring (we went from 70 degrees yesterday to snow flurries this morning - it was a shock), and they added nature's touch to my BEED.

I have so many people to thank for my divine disorder - from PR to the product specialists on the floor - I'll mention them as I write over the next few weeks. I'm actually happy about my diagnosis!

Lest you have any doubts that neon yellow is an "it" color for spring, both local stores sold out of the yellow tote in two days. If you want that neon yellow bag, hurry! Perhaps it's still available at your local Neiman Marcus. The pink and gold totes are more "me," so I'm thrilled with my gifts with purchase. So why do I want the yellow one now? I guess it's a BEED thing.

You'll see the results of my BEED spending over the next week or more. Right now, I need a nap. I'm coming down off my BEED high for the day. If you'd like to experience BEED, I'm sure your favorite Neiman Marcus representatives can help. Perhaps one day BEED will make its way into the Merck Manual or have its own ICD code. Watch your friends carefully for the symptoms.

P.S. The stunning flower arrangement above was created by Art with Flowers at Tysons Galleria. Their phone is (703) 903-6837.

Update 2/16: Here's that Etro jacket I want. The sleeves are rolled up. There is a matching top too in the black and white print. Sigh!

Photos by Best Things in Beauty; totes photo courtesy of Neiman Marcus

Beauty Event at Neiman Marcus

Savvy beauty shoppers know that Neiman Marcus Beauty Event is approaching - soon. From Thursday, February, 23, through Sunday, March 4, the event offers you the opportunity to take home a tote, including an assortment of beauty samples, with your cosmetics or fragrance purchase or $100 or more. At a special event at Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie last week, I received the gold bag, and I love it. You now how it is with some of these totes. They make perfect giveaways to your cleaning lady, right? Not this tote! I'm going to use it.

The samples in the bag include some of my favorites. Electron, the latest fragrance from A DOZEN ROSES, joins Tom Ford's Neroli Portofino to help you define your scent style. Who doesn't like Kate Somerville's Clinic-To-Go Pads? While none of the "free" samples are generous, they offer a nice assortment of products.

For those who plan to spend with abandon, I'm looking at a three-page, fine-print list of gifts with purchase. Many of them have a high spending bar. If you plan to buy the brand anyhow, why not stretch a little to get the gift?

My favorites include gifts from Bobbi Brown ($150 minimum purchase - all subsequent amounts here in parentheses are the minimum purchase to receive the gift), Cartier ($125), Chantecaille ($150, I need to call my favorite rep), Clé de Peau Beauté ($300), Clinique ($65), Elie Saab ($100), Fresh ($100 or $125), Kate Somerville ($200), Le Métier de Beauté ($125), Maison Francis Kurkdjian ($185), Natura Bissé ($300), NEST (limit unknown), RéVive ($650), and Sisley-Paris ($300).

The list is long. Make sure to check it out at your favorite Neiman Marcus. Do it soon. Popular stores have been known to run out of the totes.

Photos courtesy of Neiman Marcus

The Friday Forum - February 17

This morning, it's warm and foggy outside. As I carried trash and recycling out to the bins for today's pick-up, I saw snowdrops peeking out from the leaves covering the ground. It was a sure sign that winter will soon give way to spring. If only the weather forecasters, who are predicting 1-4" of snow this weekend, had received the telegraph.

This week, I've been in beauty overload. I've had an opportunity to see or test many new products, and I've received many boxes of new treasures. I am really hoping for bright sunshine today. I'm eager to show you the new Chantecaille Coral Reefs Palette. It's hard to have something so beautiful that's still hands-off because I can't get a pristine photo if I dig in. I saw a tester at Neiman Marcus this week, but I really want to experience Chantecaille nirvana alone, in my own house. Does that make any sense?

Neiman Marcus Beauty Event starts next week (February 23) and runs through Sunday, March 4. With any beauty purchase of $100 or more - easy to do - you'll take home a tote filled with samples, including Tom Ford Neroli Portofino fragrance, A DOZEN ROSES Electron fragrance, La Mer Restorative Body Lotion, and Kate Somerville Clinic-to-Go Pads. The totes are available in hot pink, neon yellow, and gold. I was given the gold one, and I love it! The gifts with purchase are the main attraction at Beauty Event. The list is long and includes Chantecaille, Le Métier de Beauté (Red Velvet Lip Crème), Nest, Antica Farmacista, Sisley, and Laura Mercier. It's a good time to pre-order. If you don't have a local Neiman Marcus and want personalized assistance, give Sunny Choi Noble or Michael Reinhardt at Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie a call at (202) 966-9700. Make sure to ask for one of them.

The Saks Fifth Avenue Beauty Week is underway, and the tote is cool, but, in my opinion, the samples inside are not worth the effort. I wish Saks would re-up its game for Beauty Week. It used to be the cat's meow.

I got Charlie's porch fixed last week, and before another week could pass, he broke through another screen panel. I caught him working the screen away from its frame and brought my furry bad boy inside before he could escape. Now I'm on tap for another $100 repair. I wish he could control his instincts! That's makeup money.

It's time for The Friday Forum, our open chat. What new products did you discover this week? Did you find any deals you couldn't resist? Are you using a fabulous product and want to sing its praises? Did you find a beauty product disappointing? Do you have a question others might be able to answer? Want to talk about skin care? What's new in your life? Just use the comments. Don't be shy. Just make sure to ask any question you might have over the weekend. By early the next week, most (not all) readers will have moved on.

Don't forget this week's giveaway contest. By special request, it's for a KORRES Naked Love Your Lips set. The deadline to enter is tomorrow, February 18, at midnight. Good luck!

I have so much beauty news to share. I'll be working hard this weekend to write and get photos. For now, I hope you have a beautiful day - or if you're lucky, a nice, long President's Day weekend.

Photo by Best Things in Beauty

DC Area: The Natura Bissé Pure Air Bubble Facial is Coming!

The Natura Bissé Pure Air Bubble, featuring Diamond White Facial, is coming to Neiman Marcus Tysons Galleria from February 22 through 24. If you make an appointment, you can have an opportunity to experience this unique skin therapy - compliments of Natura Bissé and Neiman Marcus.

The 99.9% Pure Air Bubble is a spacious, isolated area specifically designed to enhance treatments, increase the efficacy of treatment products, and transport the client to a state of complete tranquility. I'll take tranquility, and if it helps my skin, even better! The innovative bubble of pure, sterile air (free of contaminants and allergens) is said to improve and clarity and energy and detoxify the skin, helping the Diamond White Facial provide maximum results.

The Bubble02 used by Natura Bissé was developed by a Spanish company for athletes, those with respiratory allergies, and asthma conditions. The pure air oxygenates every cell in the body (so it's a whole-body experience), but is very beneficial for the skin. Natura Bissé has exclusive rights to the Bubble02 for beauty purposes. I've got to try it! I wonder if it will make my back feel better (there's always hope, right?).

The Diamond White Facial is a renewing treatment that clarifies and evens skin tone, revealing a fresh and brightened complexion. The facial offers advanced ingredients to minimize melanin and gently exfoliate to lighten the skin and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation. An anti-inflammatory effect soothes the skin, providing rapid results that last.

To make an appointment to glow, call Denise Thomas, Natura Bissé specialist, at (703) 761-1600, extension 3305. Please tell her Charlestongirl sent you so that you receive extra-special treatment and "priority boarding." Will I see you in first class?

Photo courtesy of Neiman Marcus

Le Métier de Beauté Capitol Kaleidoscope - Swatched

Le Métier de Beauté's limited-edition Capitol Kaleidoscope ($95) will be officially unveiled this week at Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie during the InCircle event. The range of colors was selected to embody the array of styles, ideas, and personas that converge to make Washington, DC a unique force of energy. Michael Reinhardt, the Le Métier de Beauté representative at Mazza, collaborated with Mikey Castello, Le Métier de Beauté's Director of Makeup, to select the shades. The Kaleidoscope is exclusive to Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie. Last time I checked, which was Saturday, all but 10 of the 75 had been pre-sold.

Michael wanted the shades to be colors women could wear every day.

• Pink Tendre: a matte pink highlighter
• Peache Or: described as a rose champagne - I'd call it peach
• Taupe Satine: a subtly shimmering taupe - gorgeous!
• Prune Veloure: a deep matte aubergine that is very sheer and wearable

I had to take my photos in the store. It's extremely dark and cloudy outside (no chance of getting outdoor photos), so I moved the counter light to my arm and snapped away, hoping to get a few pictures that represented the shades fairly well. As soon as the sun re-emerges mid-week, I'll get a sunny photo for you.

I applied each shade heavily with a sponge-tipped applicator. I feel that the store lighting didn't show the colors as well as sunlight does. They lost some of their liveliness.

I wouldn't use the matte Pink Tendre as a highlighter. I prefer a shade with a little glow for highlighting. Pink Tendre is a perfect base shade on my skin. I hope you can see it at the top of my arm.

Peache Or glows in peach. It has a subtle gleam that's extremely flattering on the lids. It also coordinates perfectly with the shades below it in the Kaleidoscope.

Taupe Satine is described by Le Métier de Beauté as a satin-finish taupe. I see it as a subtly shimmering taupe with a touch of antique gold/bronze. It's definitely the jazziest shade in the Kaleidoscope - worth the entire price of admission to any taupe lover. Gorgeous!

Prune Veloure surprised me. It looks like a deep shade in the pan, but on the skin it's sheer, brown-toned mauve-aubergine - a color I can wear. Aubergine shades can be deadly on my skin and eyes, but this one is extremely muted and pretty. When applied properly - not globbed on like I did to get a decent store photo - it's a fabulous seasonal shade.

To celebrate the release of the Capitol Kaleidoscope, Erin Lockard will be working her magic at Neiman Marcus Mazza Gallerie on Wednesday, December 7. I can't wait! Call Michael or Sherry at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258, to place your pre-order if you want this Kaleidoscope. Do it today! If you are local to the DC area, you should also make an appointment for Wednesday. You are going to adore Erin Lockard.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty