Chanel Les 4 Ombres Rives Eyeshadow Palette from the Fleur de Lotus Collection, Nordstrom Exclusive

I'm ready to proclaim Fleur de Lotus the best Chanel color collection in years. That's a bold statement, but I think it's warranted. As you know, the collection was an Asia exclusive, but it was made available to us in the United States for Nordstrom's Anniversary sale. My first ho-hum reaction was tempered by time. When I received the collection and started wearing the pieces, serious love set in.

I've featured the gorgeous blush and the icy green Illusion D'Ombre in Rivière, two knock-your-socks-off pieces from Fleur de Lotus (just scroll down). Today, I'll focus on the eyes. Chanel's Les 4 Ombres Rives Eyeshadow Palette ($58) is exquisite. What neutral shadow lover wouldn't want it?

When mine, which I ordered online, arrived from Nordstrom, I quickly photographed it in its unused state and then started to play. I immediately discovered that the shade at top left is nearly rose gold. Anyone who has been reading Best Things in Beauty knows that rose gold is a color that makes me deliriously happy. And so it was with Rives.

From classic ivory to rich brown, the shades of the essential eyeshadow compact offer unlimited looks of elegance. The smudge-proof, dermatologist-tested formula can be applied dry for subtle shading or dampened for more intense color, with long-wearing results even in extreme climates.

Chanel's understated description doesn't do justice to this beauty. The colors are beautiful in the palette. They are even more beautiful on the skin. I took many swatch photos in full sun, and every one of them was good. I had applied the shadows with a sponge-tipped applicator, and I swatched clockwise, starting at the top left.

What would you call the stunning shade at the top of my arm? It's gleaming rose gold to my eye, but I could also call it pastel copper, a peach-gold hybrid, and many other flattering terms. No matter what words characterize it, on my eyelids it's drop-dead gorgeous. Dear Chanel, could I please have a vat of it?

The ivory - or white - shade is a nice one. It adheres to my skin perfectly (as do all the shades), leaving a nice white base or highlight. The taupe will delight any taupe lover. While I applied it heavily for the swatch photos, it's fabulous when applied normally with a brush. The dark brown is a good shade for me. It's a cool brown - my favorite.

All of these shades are complementary, giving us many options for mixing and matching or layering. Chanel hit it out of the park with Rives.

Did you purchase it? Do you like it? I'm crazy about it. Right now, I'm trying to restrain myself from ordering a second one. I just paid my AmEx bill, and I still want to go for broke with the Fleur de Lotus Collection. As you know, you can find it at Nordstrom - only. It's available online and in-store.

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

Chanel Joues Contraste Fleur de Lotus Blush - Nordstrom Exclusive

I wasn't prepared to fall in love. Turns out my new love was sudden and dramatic when Chanel's Fleur de Lotus Joues Contraste Blush ($43) arrived from Nordstrom.  Another Asia exclusive made its way to the United States, thanks to Nordstrom. I had seen photos of Fleur de Lotus, and it looked nice, but nothing, especially its official portrait above, prepared me for the love.

A vibrant new shade of the classic Chanel blush enhances the cheekbones with joyful color. The unique formula offers buildable coverage, from natural to dramatic, for a flattering, youthful glow.

That's one of the most subdued marketing blurbs I've seen in a long time. Someone should have been shouting "yabadabadoo"! Here's what I mean.

In real life, the blush appears more pink and less coral. On my skin, it's a warm pink that's about as perfect as it gets.

Here are two swatch photos, both taken in full, late-afternoon sun. I applied the swatch at the top of my arm pretty heavily with a sponge-tipped applicator, then I used a dense blush brush to apply a second swatch, not quite as heavily, below. Not only is this blush gorgeous on my arm, it's gorgeous on my face.

I'm gushing. I'll be wearing Fleur de Lotus every day until the euphoria wears off. Think I should purchase a back-up while it's still available?

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

Bobbi Brown City Twilight Nordstrom Anniversary Set

I was prepared to have the following reaction, "Oh, just another Bobbi Brown limited-edition set. I don't need it." Even though I love Bobbi Brown - and have countless Bobbi Brown palettes - I really wish she would concentrate on single colors more than palettes. Often, I have to purchase a palette (or set), with one or two things I don't need or don't want in order to get the colors I do want.

When I saw City Twilight, Nordstrom's exclusive, limited-edition Bobbi Brown Anniversary Set ($80), I bought it immediately. Did I need a black eyeliner or mascara? No. I'm glad to have everything else, though, including the Hydrating Eye Cream. The colors in this palette are beautiful.

Inspired by the play of shadow and light at dusk, this collection has everything you need to transition your look through the seasons. The set includes Hydrating Eye Cream (0.23 oz.), a double-decker palette filled with sun-swept shadows, glosses, and a cream blush - plus Long-Wear Pencil in Jet (0.04 oz.), and an Intensifying Long-Wear Mascara in Black (0.23 oz.). The finishing touch is City Twilight Glitter Nail Polish (0.3 oz.), a stunning, shimmering shade. The palette includes a Dual Ended Eye Shadow/Eye Liner Brush, a nice touch for anyone who travels.

I was able to get swatch photos of the palette over the weekend. I didn't feel it necessary to show you a black eyeliner or black mascara. I'll show you the gorgeous Nail Polish later. It's a hybrid of sparkling beige, silver, and pink. I wanted you to have an opportunity to purchase a City Twilight set before they are sold out. The palette is gorgeous, and when they're gone, there's gone.

I took my photos in full sun. I swatched all shades, even the lip glosses, with a sponge-tipped applicator. Let's start with the eye shadows. There isn't a sparkly, colorless dud in the group. I swatched from left to right.

Ivory Eye Shadow is shown (you can't really see it) at the top of my arm. It's a great base shade on my fair skin - and an old standby. On darker skin, it should show more color. Smokey Haze Metallic Eye Shadow is a gorgeous shimmering taupe. I love it. Heather Dusk Metallic Eye Shadow is a shimmering mauve I can wear - yippee! The surprise in the shadows, Velvet Eye Shadow isn't as "purple" as it looks in the palette. It's more brown than lavender, making it a great color for me.

The bottom tier has two Lip Glosses and one Pot Rouge. I swatched from left to right. Pink Beige Lip Gloss at the top of my arm is a pretty, very sheer neutral pink. The Desert Rose Pot Rouge cream blush (which you can wear on your lips) is a warm pink - and a terrific color. I'm glad it's represented in a decent size.

The nude gloss, Blushed Heather Glitter Lip Gloss, shown at the bottom of my arm directly above, is a pretty, sparkling nude with just a hint of peach-pink. Both lip glosses are great toppers.

Three of the shades in this palette are limited-editions, but I was a ditz and forgot to write down which ones. I was like a kid in a candy store the day I shopped at Nordstrom last week. Makeup deals for the Anniversary Sale, plus my favorite shoes,  led to my delirium. This is, in my opinion, one of Bobbi Brown's prettiest, most useful palettes in recent times. It can still be yours - at Nordstrom in the United States.

Interestingly, this set is available from Bobbi Brown in the United Kingdom. Here in the United States, it's a Nordstrom exclusive. To further complicate things, I've read that it's exclusive to Selfridges. "Exclusive" doesn't always mean exclusive.

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

Le Métier de Beauté's Beauty Vault for Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

A kind reader sent me this photo today. It pictures Le Métier de Beauté's "Beauty Vault" ($49) for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. If they don't sell out during pre-sale to card members, maybe everyone will be able to purchase one.

The Anniversary Sale set includes a purse-sized Peau Vierge Tinted Luminizer in #2 and Anamorphic Lash Mascara in black. The Noir Precision Liquid Liner is full-sized, normally a $42.00 item. "The perfect product ensemble to complete your flawless, long-wearing look." This is a special chance to try these products if you haven't used them before.

If you want this set and are a Nordstrom credit card customer, you will be able to purchase the set during pre-sale. If you aren't, you will have to take your chances - or find a friend willing to user his or her card to purchase it. I don't plan to carry a Nordstrom credit card - or any store card - ever.  As some of you know, that makes me a second-class citizen to Nordstrom, despite the fact that I spend a bundle there.

Photo courtesy of Nordstrom and a sweet reader

Le Métier de Beauté Come One, Come All Kaleidoscope Eye Kit - A Nordstrom Montgomery Mall Exclusive

Le Métier de Beauté created a new Kaleidoscope Eye Kit ($95) in collaboration with Nordstrom at Montgomery Mall in Bethesda, Maryland. There were only 75 Come One, Come All Kaleidoscopes manufactured, and you can still secure yours - if you call the store quickly.

Come One, Come All was created to work for everyone, with shades that are perfect for all skin and hair colors. It was launched today at the Nordstrom Beauty Trend Show at the Montgomery Mall store. I didn't attend the trend show, but I did pop over to the store to meet up with my friends from Le Métier de Beauté. While I was there, I purchased Come One, Come All.

I was excited to meet Tawni Hart, EC Regional Beauty Director for Nordstrom. She gave me the names of the four shades. Here they are, top to bottom.

• Haute Honey
• Tawni Taupe
• Montgomery Mauve
• Bethesda Brown

Tawni and I must have the same tastes in taupe! Lucky lady to have such a pretty taupe shade named after her! That's the shade I would have selected.

Actually, all four shades are drop-dead gorgeous. I must lobby for a Tysons Galleria Kaleidoscope!

Here are two swatch photos, taken quickly in full sun when I got home from the store. I swatched top to bottom (in the shade order listed above), using a sponge-tipped applicator and a heavy hand.

Haute Honey, a shimmering fleshy peach, is the perfect base shade. It has a perfect name too. Look at Tawni Taupe! Brilliant, gleaming taupe-grey (or greyed taupe). It could not be more gorgeous. Montgomery Mauve is also cleverly named after the store, mall, and county. Its a lively red-toned coppery mauve that I'll apply on my face more lightly than I did for these photos. The pure dark chocolate brown, Bethesda Brown takes the signature color of Bethesda, Maryland, and recreates it for the eyes.

I rushed this feature into "print" so that you could see Come One, Come All and call the store to order your own special Kaleidoscope. You can still be one of the 75 lucky ladies to own one. Just call Nordstrom at Montgomery Mall at (301) 365-4111 and ask for the Le Métier de Beauté counter. It's a little crazy in there today, given the show, so you may have to wait a few minutes to be helped. Hang in there. This Kaleidoscope is definitely worth a small investment of your time.

Update: I applied Montgomery Mauve as a blush this afternoon, and it was exquisite! That's how this fair-haired gal will be wearing it.

Update 11/21: It appears that the bottom two shades in Come One, Come All were duplicates for the bottom two shades in Silk Road. A Best Things in Beauty reader was the first person to bring the similarities to my attention - not too long after she got Come One, Come All. Since then, I have seen other bloggers, who own Silk Road (I don't), point out the similarities, most recently Sabrina at Beauty Look Book. I don't understand it because it was supposed to have been designed by Nordstrom. Come One, Come All sold out, so if you wanted those bottom two shades, it looks like you can purchase them in Silk Road.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Nordstrom Paint the Town Beautiful Show Recap

Do you like crowds? If you do, you'd love the Nordstrom Beauty Trends Show. Imagine 800 women assembled to see the latest and greatest in the world of beauty at Paint the Town Beautiful. Imagine most of them leaping out of their chairs or waving their arms in the air every time the energetic mistress of ceremonies, Nordstrom's beauty guru Julianne De'Chaump, hints that she's going to give something away. The spectacle is more interesting than most of the short presentations.

Now imagine packing them all into the Nordstrom Beauty Department after the show. Imagine that you can't get through the aisles to actually buy products without rubbing elbows with countless women, some of whom block those aisles to get a free sample of something they may never use. Imagine pandemonium, and you've got an idea what this morning's Beauty Trends show and aftermath were like at Nordstrom Tysons Corner Center. There has to be a better way. I don't know why I keep punishing myself by going; I guess it's the spectacle that intrigues me.

Did I learn anything? Not much. That comes with being a "jaded beauty blogger," I guess. I knew most of the products that were introduced. I did find the models a blast to watch (walking with confidence in six-inch heels), and there were a few presentations that were especially good - either because they were informative or energetic.

I love Pamela Morgan from Guerlain, and she did a great job of explaining Abeille Royale, Guerlain's latest anti-aging serum, and Or Impérial, a spray-on highlighting powder. I may have to take a second look at Or Impérial. Pamela said it smells like candied violets. I avoided it the first time I saw it because Guerlain's skin care is so heavily fragranced, and some of the products smell like Shalimar. Now I want to sniff candied violets.

I don't wear red lipstick. My coloring is so fair, it's too dramatic for me. Nevertheless, I thought Lancome's Red Stiletto lipstick was gorgeous on the model - the perfect shade of red for me, with just a slight hint of blue. Manuel "Manny" Villegas, Lancome National Makeup Artist, described it as the perfect red. Maybe I'll reconsider.

Dr. Perricone's two lovely representatives, Rene Marshall and Jane Meredith, are always a delight. Nordstrom should have given them more time to explain Perricone's philosophy of nutrition, supplements, and topical skin care to stay forever young (the title of his latest book). The arm-waving audience seemed largely unacquainted with Perricone skin care (but then some of the gals there were about 12 years old - no kidding).

"The guys" had two of the most energetic appearances. Timber Gooding from Smashbox presented the Make a Wish Collection for Holiday 2010. I've featured it recently, and I love it. I'll bet some of the sets sold out today. Bobby Moser from Trish McEvoy told us about the latest in makeup. He also mentioned that makeup brushes #41 and #11 were among the most popular of McEvoy's well-regarded brushes. That was worth jotting down for later.

What did I purchase? Surprisingly, M∙A∙C! During my quick shopping scan after the show, I was drawn to three sets from the A Tartan Tale: two eye shadow palettes (Six Dashing Lassie Eye Shadows, shown at left, and Six Reelers & Rockers Eye Shadows) and The Swinging Violets Mineralize Kit, which is a Nordstrom exclusive. I liked the Blush Face Kits too, but they were sold out. I shopped online and ordered them when I got home. I'll show you my M∙A∙C purchases over the next few days.

Will I go to another Beauty Trends Show? I doubt it. I think the novelty has worn off. I like to shop without chaos! Would I encourage you to attend one? Sure! Go with your friends, have breakfast when the show ends, and go back to shop once a few hundred women have cleared out of Nordstrom.

Photos courtesy of the age.com.au, Nordstrom, and M∙A∙C

Bobbi Brown Tips from the Master Class at Nordstrom Tysons Corner Center

What fun we had yesterday at the Bobbi Brown Master Class at Nordstrom at Tysons Corner! About 21 of us spent almost three hours with Tia Hebron, Bobbi's Global Makeup Team Artist and Education Executive (and total dynamo); Michele Shakeshaft, Bobbi's fabulous Market Coordinator for our region; and 10 makeup artists whose sole mission was to make us look beautiful - and learn how to do it ourselves.

I have three pages of notes! They covered a lot of ground, and I can't give you the whole class in one blog feature. I can tell you about the tips I found most helpful and the products Tia used on me. I also have a few photos, despite the challenge of the lighting in the room (with flash, they washed out; without, they were a bit dark). Unfortunately, my photo of Tia and Michele is dark. There's another photo of Tia below.

Tia led us from skin care to the finishing touches - with humor, talent, and energy. Somehow, "the blogger" got tapped to be the model, so I sat under the lights on the little stage as Michele and Tia demonstrated what they taught us. From my vantage point, I watched each woman in the class as she was transformed from pretty to pretty powerful. It was a blast!

We learned all about Bobbi's skin care, starting by cleansing our faces, and we got a nice introduction to the newest Hydrating Skincare products. Tia called Hydrating Face Tonic "Gatorade for the skin," a great description for the toner/tonic that is loaded with minerals and vitamins to enhance your skin before you use the treatment products best for you.

Tia focused on two great serum choices for use under our moisturizer: Intensive Skin Supplement (my choice for my aging and dry skin) and Brightening Intensive Serum, a serum that won't bleach your skin as it clarifies and brightens. We applied our serum and followed up with a moisturizer. Michele selected the new Hydrating Face Cream for me. We learned that all of Bobbi Brown's moisturizers have built-in primers so that your face will be ready for your makeup application after you moisturize.

Because your makeup can't look its best without good skin underneath, we continued to apply our skin care, using products to protect our eyes and lips. Extra Eye Repair Cream is the staff favorite in Bobbi's New York headquarters. Tia called it "Spanx in a jar," and apparently they can't keep it in stock in the closet. We also learned that Bobbi's Lip Balm SPF 25, which feels great on my always-parched lips, will bring out the color in your lips.

Tia used the phrase "runway to reality" to describe how Bobbi Brown translates runway color trends into makeup we can use every day. She started with foundation, as the artists applied three shades to our faces to see which one would disappear into our skin. You want your foundation to look natural, so selecting the right foundation shade and applying it correctly will get you off to the right start. She also mentioned that you should only apply foundation to the areas of your face that need it. That's often in the center of your face, and you should blend it out to "nothing" where your skin is clear and even. She also taught us how to use Bobbi's top-rated Corrector to take away any darkness under our eyes follow with the Creamy Concealer Kit, making sure to use concealer in the inner corner near the nose and set the concealer with powder.

Everyone needs to use bronzer! I didn't believe that until I saw the transformation of 21 women who lightly applied either the Bronzing Powder or the All Over Bronzing Gel SPF 15.

Tia used Desert Sun gel on me (and the lovely lady to the left), and I loved the warm look. None of looked tan; we just looked sculpted and healthy!

Bobbi recommends an order to makeup application: cheeks, lips, then eyes. If you run out of time during your makeup application, you can quit after any step. Your cheeks and lips will add radiance to your face. Tia was a hoot when she told us that people are nicer to you when you're wearing blusher. She suggested that if you apply the bronzer first, you simply need to add a pop of color to the apple of your cheeks to be ready to roll. With Pot Rouge for Lips and Cheeks, powder blushes, and Sheer Color Cheek Tint, Bobbi has us covered with formulas and shades! Tia surprised me when she selected Sheer Coral Sheer Color Cheek Tint for me. That may be the only shade I haven't bought! Naturally, Tia showed everyone techniques for applying color, and she recommended Bobbi's brushes - the right brush for each task - as we progressed through the class.

We moved from cheeks to lips. You probably know that Bobbi Brown recommends using your lip color before your lip liner. When you do use your pencil liner, use the flat edge of the pencil and feather it on to define and enhance your lips. Tia used Black Cherry Creamy Lip Color and Black Chocolate Sheer Color Gloss on my lips. She used Brownie Lip Liner to finish the look. (You can see my selections from the Black Velvet Collection (last week's shopping foray) at this link. Glad I bought Black Cherry and Black Chocolate!)

We did our eyes last! Naturally, I wanted to play with the new Black Velvet Collection, so Tia applied a neutral ivory color all over my lid before she started her magic. She used Khaki Eye Shadow on my lower lid before she applied the new Black Charcoal Metallic Eye Shadow. She told us that there has been a shift in how to create the smoky eye. No longer do you paint one color on your lower lid and another in the crease. Now, the best way is to apply the darkest color at the last line and blend as you move up into the crease. Don't be afraid to use your finger to help blend if you need to. Tia blended the Black Charcoal over the Khaki and followed with the new Kohl Eye Liner in Black and Extreme Party Mascara. She also used gray shadow to fill in my brows and the Highlighter Pen in Opal at the top of my cheekbones.

Here I am modeling the look Tia created with Bobbi's new book, Beauty Rules. There's a Beauty Rules Palette too! I'll tell you about Beauty Rules later this week. I took a closeup photo of the eye look Tia created when I got home. I had to take the photo inside using a flash, so it's very shiny - sorry about that. I should have left it on for the party I attended last night! It was pretty snazzy.

If you get a chance to attend a Bobbi Brown Master Class, you should do it! You'll learn a lot and have fun while you're learning. My thanks for Tia, Michele, the 10 artists, the sweet gals who let me take their photos (including that gorgeous mother-daughter team above), and Diron Carr, the Nordstrom Tysons Bobbi Brown manager who told me I had to attend. He was right.

Clinique Gift with Purchase at Nordstrom

You have one more week to pick up this fabulous gift with a $25 purchase (GWP) at Nordstrom! After resisting for the last week, I finally surrendered and got mine yesterday.

The bag is cute, but I must have 500 makeup bags, even after giving away so many. It's large-sized, so I will keep it and use it for something. What's inside, though, is even better. Here's the list, along with my comments.

• 7 Day Scrub Cream Rinse-Off Formula (1 oz.) - great exfoliator anyone can use
  
• Sun Face Cream SPF 30 with key chain (0.24 oz.) - tiny portion of a superb sunscreen; will give the key chain away
  
• Even Better Skin Tone Correcting Moisturizer SPF 20 (0.5 oz.) - I can try this one, although it may not be heavy-duty enough for me
  
• Travel-size Shimmering Stripes Powder Blusher in Peony - this is a gorgeous bronzer/blusher; love it!
  
• High Impact Mascara in Black (0.14 oz.) - Clinique's mascara's are world-class
  
• Different Lipstick in Ice Bloom (0.14 oz.) - beautiful color, and I love Different Lipstick!
  
• Long Last Glosswear SPF 15 in Fire Berry (0.07 oz.) - again, beautiful color
  

Not all GWPs are created equal. This one's worth seeking out, and the $25 can be spent easily. I purchased two Different Lipsticks. You could stock up on Black Honey if you can find it. Is there anyone who doesn't love Clinique's "works-for-everyone" sheer, slimline lipstick?

If you don't have a Nordstrom nearby, there's always the Web!

Photo courtesy of Nordstrom

A Glowing Bobbi Brown Makeover at Nordstrom

How's this for gorgeous? Yesterday, at the invitation of Diron Carr, Manager of the Bobbi Brown counter at Nordstrom at Tysons Corner Center, I took this darling young lady, Alexandra, in for a Pretty Powerful makeover. We wanted to show you how you can achieve the same results with a little help from the experts at Bobbi's counters nationwide. I also wanted to show some items from Bobbi Brown's new Beach Club collection "in action."

I asked Alexandra to arrive without makeup so that Diron would have a clean slate to start. OK, so I'll acknowledge that she doesn't need makeup (that comes with her age and looking this good), but what a difference Bobbi's makeup made! Alexandra went from pretty to polished!

Here's some background. Alexandra's senior prom is this weekend, so she had been using self-tanner (all the rage to be tan when you're young, I guess). Diron had to experiment to find shades that worked with her "altered" coloring, while still leaving her with makeup that she can use every day. Before I get started on the products he used, I want you to know that he is an absolute delight - in addition to being a pro. I can see why customers enjoy sitting in his chair while he works. Of course, we attracted an audience, as passersby stopped to watch the glamorous transformation. Not sure, but I think we might have even sold a Beach Club Cream Shadow!

Here are the products that took Alexandra from pretty to polished.

After Alexandra described her skin type as "not oily," Diron prepped her skin with Soothing Face Tonic, an alcohol-free toner that softens, tones, and refines skin gently and without tightening or irritation. It's infused with cucumber extract and natural lavender to instantly soothe and calm. Alexandra thought it smelled great. He then applied Protective Face Lotion SPF 15 and a little Hydrating Eye Cream.

To prep the canvas, so to speak, Diron used the following products and shades on Alexandra's face and around her eyes.

Natural Finish Long Lasting Foundation SPF 15 in Honey (#5)
Corrector in Bisque
Creamy Concealer Kit in Warm Natural under the eyes and to even her skin tone in a few spots

The Creamy Concealer Kit was perfect for Alexandra, with its concealer on top and Sheer Finish Loose Powder on the bottom level to set not only the Corrector, but also the Creamy Concealer.

Then we moved on to color! Diron was a perfectionist, holding up testers to Alexandra's face to select the colors he used.

Bronzing Powder in Golden Light
Sheer Color Cheek Tint in Sheer Pink
Creamy Lip Color in Pink Ballet
Lip Liner in Cocoa
Lip Gloss in Bright Pink
A top-off at the end of the session with Crystal Lip Gloss

The next step? Alexandra's beautiful blue eyes.

Powder Eye Shadow in Cement to fill in her eyebrows (he added some Flint so she would look camera-ready)
Powder Eye Shadow in Ivory under the brows
Long-Wear Cream Eye Shadow in Sandy Gold as a base color on her eyelids
The gorgeous Beach Club shade Moonstone Metallic Long-Wear Cream Shadow on her eyelids (shown at right)
Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Cobalt Ink to line her upper lids (both over and under the top lashes) - this dark blue really worked beautifully with the Moonstone shadow - and her eyes
Extreme Party Mascara (black, of course)

It was after he had applied Moonstone that we finally gave Alexandra a mirror. She was looking so gorgeous, we had to let her see. She was stopping traffic anyhow.

The finishing touch? A light application of the new Beach Shimmer Brick on all the highlights of her face. Did she need it? No, she already looked polished, but I have to admit it was just the right finishing touch.

We had so much fun! After all, what teenager doesn't love makeup? Alexandra's mom and I had a blast too. Diron was the perfect host and artist. He was assisted by Sarah Lavache, a Bobbi Brown representative who started by watching, but jumped in to help with color selection and the now-famous technique of applying eyeliner from underneath the lashes.

Here's a photo of Diron and Alexandra after our session. I'd say she looked Pretty Powerful!

Whether you want a five-minute makeover or a full makeup lesson, the Bobbi Brown counters are ready to help you! You can always stop by, but it helps to make an appointment so they can make sure someone is available to spend some quality time with you.

My thanks to our model Alexandra, who is about to graduate and head off to college. You'll see her on television someday when her dream of being a television anchor is fulfilled!

A very special thanks to Diron Carr, Bobbi Brown Manager at Nordstrom Tysons Corner. Friends, if you live anywhere around Washington, D.C., you have to go meet this charming and talented man!

Product photos courtesy of Bobbi Brown

DC-Area April Beauty Events

It's Cherry Blossom month, and with the flowering trees come blooming beauty events in the DC area. There are some great ones lined up this month, so please take advantage of advice and consultations from the pros. The events are listed here in date order. I'm going to show up at all of them! Don't live around here? I'll bet your own stores are celebrating spring's beauty.

This Saturday, April 10, Nordstrom Tysons Corner is having their Beauty Trends Show. The show is a great way to learn about new products, and the counters upstairs will be hopping after the show because there are so many specials that day. Almost every line will have something going on. I hope you will stop by to see Rene Marshall, Perricone MD guru, who has so many great tips on skin care - and a prestige line to sell. Cold Plasma won a WWD Beauty Biz award for good reason! Recently, I watched Rene show a 40-something guy (who walked into Sephora!) how to care for his skin. When she finished with him, he looked fabulous! She's amazing, and I hope you will look for her. She's one of my all-time skin care favorites. If you want to attend the show, call your favorite counter at Nordstrom to sign up. The phone is (703) 761-1121. There is a minimal cost, but it's fully reimbursable for products that day. The show starts before the store opens.

On Thursday, April 15, Raychel Wade, La Prairie Colour Ambassador, renowned makeup artist, and founder of Cheek to Chick, will be at Neiman Marcus Tysons Galleria to spill her secrets on color and give you her insider picks on La Prairie must-haves for your makeup bag - from foundation to finishing products. Raychel’s expertise is in sizing up women’s “makeup personalities” based on their lifestyles, then helping them edit their makeup bags to streamline keepers and fill in the holes of anything that's missing. From CEOs to recent college grads, brides to baby boomers, and A-listers to Fashion Week models, Raychel has worked her makeup magic on them all. This should be a fun event. If you would like to make an appointment, call Neiman Marcus at (703) 761-1600 and ask for the La Prairie counter. If you are interested, I would make that appointment quickly. Appointments are limited.

Bloomingdale's at Tysons Corner is having one of my favorite events on Tuesday, April 20, and you can attend at either 11:00 am or 6:30 pm. It's a Beauty 101 Workshop/Master Class. I went in the fall of 2009 and had a blast. This season, the event will be set up as a classroom-style learning seminar. Each session will last about 45 minutes. Tickets are $25, which is totally redeemable in product, and each attendee will receive a composition book to take notes and a tote bag. There will also be lots of samples of various products for you and prizes to win as well. Take my word, this is always a fun event! If you want to participate, call your favorite counter at (703) 556-4600 to reserve a seat.

There is an Armani Beauty Master Class with Loyd Cassler and his Armani Beauty Team at Saks Fifth Avenue at Chevy Chase, Maryland. It will be held on April 22 at 5:30 pm. You will need a reservation, and you can e-mail me at bestthingsinbeauty@gmail.com to make one. There are a few seats left. The event is free, and it's the first day of Saks Friends & Family, so if you decide you can't live without any of the wonderful Armani Beauty products, you will receive the Friends & Family discount.

Shiseido is having a fabulous event at Macy's at Pentagon City on April 24 from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. With an appointment, you will be able to have a consultation and makeover with Renato Almeido, Shisedo National Makeup Artist, to celebrate the Spring 2010 makeup collection. Designed by Dick Page, the collection allows you to create an entire spectrum of flattering looks, perfect for any occasion. The latest Shiseido collection is hot. To make an appointment, call the Shiseido counter at (703) 418-4488. These appointments are going to go fast, so hurry if you want a fun Saturday makeover.

Wondering where the snazzy graphic at the top of this post came from? Shiseido sponsored a Graphic Design Challenge at the National Cherry Blossom Festival. The winner, Joe Parisi, was awarded a $5,000 tuition prize from Shiseido to attend the Westwood College School of Design.

The awards ceremony took place this past Friday at Cherry Blast, a lively party that celebrated both Japanese and contemporary DC culture. At the event, guests explored two rooms packed with interactive art – a merging of art and real life – created by local artists. Congratulations, Joe! And many thanks to Shiseido for supporting our local artists.

Design by Joe Parisi and courtesy of Shiseido

Winterize Your Skin Event at Norstrom Tysons Corner

Yesterday was an eventful day. We had an unanticipated amount of snow, there was a farewell party for Tai Shan (our beloved "baby" panda), and there was an 8:30 am Winterize Your Skin event at Nordstrom.

I think the snow dampened attendance at Nordstrom. I toyed with staying home, but figured I could get in and out before much snow accumulated. The drive home was a bit "interesting." Even with less than an inch of snow (at that point) on the untreated roads, it was really slick (packed to ice). With fishtailing cars and a four-car accident close to my house, I was very happy to get home.

That said, I enjoyed the show. It was participatory, and because the group was small, there were plenty of opportunities to ask questions. Jennifer Drake introduced our mistress of ceremonies, Nordstrom's beauty guru Julianne De’Chaump - a bundle of energy as always. She asked more questions than we did, making sure that the presenters told us what women want to know.

Julianne started the program with some advice. If you want to make one change in your skin, brighten! She was careful to say that she didn't mean bleach, she meant brighten, and she followed that with a three-step recommendation: Repair, Serum, Moisturize!

Regional representatives from skin care and cosmetics companies, as well as Nordstrom experts, were there to make short presentations on a featured product (or two) from each line and take questions. I liked this format so much more than the loud, flashy beauty trends show!

Jason Frasher from Kinerase started us off. Jason introduced us to the new C8 Peptide Intensive Treatment, a powerful treatment that's gentle enough for sensitive skin. The ingredients offer a cocktail for you skin!

• Snap-8, the newest neuropeptide, reduces the depth and appearance of wrinkles caused by repetitive facial expressions up to 34.9%
• Stabilized vitamin C, a natural brightener and collagen booster, evens skin tone as it fills in the look of fine lines and wrinkles
• Kinetin (0.1% N6 Furfuryladenine), a powerful plant growth factor, improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and increases the skin’s ability to retain moisture
• Beta-Glucan stimulates skin’s natural immune response while promoting skin regeneration, and helps protect skin from losing moisture by improving the skin's barrier function
• Green tea and vitamin E, powerful antioxidants that ward off free radicals

Jason recommended that we wear the C8 serum during the day and said we would immediately notice a brighter, more clear complexion. Because Beta-Glucan has antibacterial properties, he said it's even good for those with acne or oily skin.

Found out that I've been mispronouncing one of my favorite product lines for years. Oh well, I guess it doesn't matter if I called the line "Kin-er-ase" or "Kine-rase" or "Darling." The products are still great!

What followed for show and tell? We learned about Freeze 24/7, a line that promises instant gratification. Maxine, who introduced us to the products, started as an impressed customer and became a representative for the GABA-laden line in no time. GABA is a muscle relaxant that produces immediate results. There's a value box, the Daily Essentials Skincare System, available with a cleanser, exfoliator, and moisturizer. The company has reported that 100% of its study participants reported a 50%-90% reduction in the visible appearance of fine lines and wrinkles within 10 minutes of product application.

An old friend of mine, skin care expert Rene Marshall, introduced us to Perricone MD. We talked about the new Deep Wrinkle Serum (the five-minute miracle with neuropeptides) and Dr. Perricone's supplements. The supplements promise to work from the inside to nourish your skin and make you feel good. I heard about flatter abs, stronger nails, great skin, and energy. I'm there! I wish it hadn't been snowing. Had I been able to stay Saturday, I would have taken advantage of a 25% discount on the supplements.

Naturally, we learned that everyone on earth needs a Clarisonic cleansing device. This is a common message in the beauty industry. There were unsolicited audience testimonials on the difference the Clarisonic made for them, and I am sure it's worth the investment to try one.

I can't tell you about everything we learned - this post is already long - but I will mention a few highlights. We heard about some great products from Phyto, a hair care line with legions of famous fans. Want volume without weighing down your hair? Try the Phytovolume products!

We heard about Bobbi Brown's Intensive Skin Supplement, a serum that will make your skin look firmer, smoother, more even-toned, and radiant (brighter!) no matter what your age. Jules shared a tip that I have tried on occasion. After you finish your makeup application, if you feel you look a bit drab, put a very small amount of serum on your fingertips, warm it, and pat it over your face. You will look lively in no time!

One last note about beauty! Timber Gooding introduced some Smashbox cosmetics designed to treat your skin while making you look great. His one-liner about the Perfect Complexion Kits, "Spanx for the face," was the laugh of the day! The Smashbox product I want to try as soon as possible is Photo Finish Lid Primer. I always use a primer. This vitamin-packed formula glides on and instantly smoothes and perfects lids. Wear it alone for a flawless natural eye or under any shadow to give it staying power. The formula contains a plant-based hyaluronic acid for ultimate moisture plus skin-perfecting amino acids. Soft-focus pearls help diminish the appearance of fine lines and discoloration on the lids, while a patented delivery system ensures effective results. Yikes - I need this! I'd also like to give the High Definition Liquid Concealer a test drive. These products are affordable, so look out Nordstrom - here I come!

As for Tai Shan, our hearts are breaking. We knew he might eventually leave us, but we were in denial. It's real now. Our baby will be headed for China this week in a FedEx plane with a panda logo. They better take good care of him and introduce him to a girl panda he loves! Tai Shan's own babies would give us new joy. No more earthquakes in panda land! Too many tears have already been shed.

Photos courtesy of Amazon, AP, Sephora, and Perricone MD

Bobbi Brown EXTRA Skincare to Go Set

Nordstrom is offering an exclusive Bobbi Brown EXTRA Skincare to Go Set ($70) for travelers. Bobbi put together the ultimate skin care set to comfort your skin whether you're on the plane, skiing, or trekking through the desert.

The set includes Balm Rinse (1 oz), Moisturizing Balm SPF 25 (0.5 oz), Eye Balm (0.2 oz), Soothing Balm (0.2 oz), and Face Oil (0.1 oz), plus an empty jar (0.5 oz) that you can custom fill with your favorite Bobbi Brown moisturizer - or anything else you want to take along.

I have used all of these products, always turning to them during the winter. They are seriously moisturizing. To my younger readers: I wouldn't recommend these to women (or men) who don't need a serious moisture boost.

EXTRAs are balm-based products formulated with natural plant extracts, such as pure orange, rosemary, and olive oil. The EXTRA Moisturizing Balm, Bobbi's most luxurious face cream, provides ultimate hydration for extremely dry or dehydrated skin. EXTRA Moisturizing Balm is formulated with petrolatum and shea butter to intensively hydrate skin, aloe and cucumber to calm and soothe stressed skin, and vitamin A and carrot extract to firm skin and minimize the look of fine lines and wrinkles. It has an "herby" scent from the essential oil blend of rosemary, geranium, ylang ylang, and moroccan chamomile.

The EXTRA Eye Balm is an ideal night treatment for the skin around the eyes. I use it every winter because it's a super-rich, concentrated, hydrating eye balm that helps counteract the effects of fatigue and dryness. EXTRA Eye Balm helps fight puffiness; reduces the look of fine, dry lines; and soothes and protects skin. It's ophthalmologist tested, so you can be sure it's safe.

The EXTRA Balm Rinse removes all traces of makeup and impurities quickly and completely. It leaves skin with a smooth, cushiony finish and instantly refreshed. You can use it daily for dry skin or as a night treatment when your skin needs more hydration.

The EXTRA Face Oil comforts very dry skin. The lightweight formula absorbs easily and immediately moisturizes, softens, and conditions skin with an oil blend of sesame, sweet almond, olive, and jojoba. Vitamin E is included to protect the skin from environmental damage. With continued use, EXTRA Face Oil helps keep skin soft and supple. It's also fragranced with a blend of natural essential oils, including neroli, patchouli, lavender, and sandalwood.

The EXTRA Soothing Balm is a dense, concentrated balm with exotic plant extracts, such as avocado, geranium, and rosemary oils, can be used anywhere extra hydration is needed - on lips, cuticles, and heels. EXTRA Soothing Balm can also be applied lightly over makeup to give cheeks that desired, healthy glow. Bobbi says a little goes a long way, and I can second that! This is my favorite product of the set.

Of course, it's a better deal to purchase these products in full sizes, and you can do that wherever Bobbi Brown products are sold. The travel set is made for traveling - or for those who want to try the EXTRAs without making a full commitment. You can find the set at Nordstrom.com or in Nordstrom stores.

Photo courtesy of Nordstrom

MAC Holiday Makeup Brush Sets - Discounted at Nordstrom

It's a great time to pick up a MAC makeup brush set at Nordstrom. There are three limited-edition sets that were all originally priced at $49.50. They have been discounted to $38.90, a 20% reduction. All come in a small, rectangular makeup bag of polished silvery-pewter vinyl - the zip adorned with a round bead and grosgrain ribbon detail. I bought one set when they were released. Now I'm seriously considering the other two.

The Magic, Mirth & Mischief - Do the Trick Brush Bag (shown above) has five buff-and-line brushes: 168SE, 187SE, 209SE, 219SE, and 252SE.

The Magic, Mirth & Mischief - Morning, Noon & Knight Eye Brush Bag (shown at right) has five key brushes for the eyes: 194SE, 204SE, 224SE, 266SE, and 275SE.

The Magic, Mirth & Mischief - Wave of a Wand Sweep & Define Brush Set (shown below) includes brushes 129SE, 190SE, 212SE, 227SE, and 275SE.
I don't have to tell you that MAC's makeup brushes are renowned for their quality. These sets were great values at full price, and they are steals now. I'm sure they will sell out at these prices.

Update 12/27: Nordstrom at Tysons Corner Center has sold out of Sweep & Define, as has the Nordstrom Web site. Tysons has a few left of the other two sets.

Photos courtesy of Nordstrom

Nordstrom's Exclusive Makeup Gifts for the Holidays

While cruising through the beauty department at Nordstrom Saturday, I saw two fabulous gift sets. The Ten-piece Makeup Brush Set, very reasonably priced at $29.50, jumped right into my hands. I haven't decided who the lucky recipient will be. Sometimes I buy gifts I would love to have and figure out who gets what later.

The 10 brushes, surrounded by a metallic reptile-embossed fabric cylinder case, are compact enough to pack, yet too luxe to hide. Each brush has a sleek silver handle and elegant black barrel. The following brushes are included in the set: lip brush, powder brush, angled cheek brush, lid-coloring brush, shadow smudge brush, blending brush, crease-defining brush, angled liner brush, concealer brush, and eyebrow brush - all useful.

The Nordstrom Holiday Blockbuster Palette ($29.50) is a eye shadow lover's dream. The set has 144 eye shadows and 12 warm-toned blush colors. I don't remember seeing a similar palette at Nordstrom last year. It's much like the Sephora and Ulta palettes that provide a wardrobe of color for a very reasonable price. I think I have to go back and get this one for a young lady I know.

If you are looking for beauty gifts, you can purchase these in Nordstrom stores or at Nordstrom.com.

Photos courtesy of Nordstrom

Clinique's Black Tie Violets Holiday Collection

There are some gorgeous new and re-introduced colors in Clinique's Black Tie Violets Holiday 2009 Collection. The Shimmering Stripes Powder Blusher in Tuxedo Plums ($29.50) grabbed my attention when I saw the new display at Saks. There's something about multi-colored blushers I really like. Maybe it's the complex color they impart when the colors are mixed or the choice of the darker or lighter side, depending on the look I'd like to achieve. There is also a limited-edition Powder Brush ($30) that is perfect for applying this beauty.

The Colour Surge Eye Shadow Quad ($25) in Black Tie Violets spans the full range of violet shades, from pink to deep plum. While I can't wear these shades, Loyd Cassler suggested they would be gorgeous on women with dark skin.

The collection features two lip colors, and one of them, A Different Grape ($14), is one of my all-time favorites. There are three Full Potential Lips Plum & Shine Glosses ($17.50). The colors featured are the limited-edition Bloomberry, Double Plum, and Luscious Lilac. I was "shopping for charity," so naturally I bought two!

The display also features Starry Plum Cream Shaper for Eyes ($14.50) and other items to complete your plummy look.

While you are Clinique shopping, make sure to check out all of the value and gift sets available. The Black Tie Violet items are in store at Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom and should be available at Clinique.com and other department stores very soon, if they aren't already.

Photos courtesy of Nordstrom

Another Fabulous Bobbi Brown Palette for Holiday

The new Bobbi Brown Chrome Palette ($75) is another must-have in my book! This incredible palette puts Bobbi's cool, contemporary take on holiday beauty into one incredible product. The icy, shimmering eye and lip accents will cast an iridescent glow on your face. Inside this chrome-accented palette, you'll find everything you need to deck yourself out for the season: 10 eyeshadow shades, four lip shades, a mini eyeshadow brush, and mini lip brush. Not only that, it's packaged in a gift-ready chrome carton in case you start feeling generous.

Here are the 10 shades for eyes: White, Polar Ice Shimmer Wash, Storm Cloud Sparkle, Iron, Thunder Metallic, Moonlight Sparkle, Cyber Grey Shimmer Wash, Foil Metallic, Chrome Metallic and Charcoal Haze.

For lips, you get Pink Mist Shimmer Lip Gloss, Winter Bronze Glitter Lip Gloss, Berry Glitter Lip Gloss, and Chrome Pink Shimmer Lip Gloss.

I'm swooning over this one! The eye shadows are gorgeous. This photo just doesn't do them justice.

It's available right now at Saks in store and at Nordstrom in stores and online. I hear there are lipsticks coming too. Hopefully, you will be able to find it soon at Bobbi Brown's Web site and other department stores.

Update: The lipsticks came in, and they are very nice. I will post on them soon.

Photo courtesy of Nordstrom