Sunday This and That

Here is one more photo of Tim Quinn, working his Armani magic yesterday. I doubt you can see his gorgeous dark blue jacket's finish. It was like a silk/cotton sateen: gorgeous! I wish Mr. Armani made some of the things Tim wears for women.

For some reason, Giorgio Armani's Fall 2013 Scarabeo collection of Eyes to Kill Intense shades had just arrived at Neiman Marcus Tysons Galleria. Go figure! You may remember I selected Gold Hercule in August. I found out there was one shade designed, but held out of the collection to be Tim's special shade. They told me it is only available at his events now. See the comments.

All four are shown in the indoor photo directly above, with Tim's shade, #34, at the right. It's the blue I asked him to apply to my eyelids yesterday.  From left to right, they are #31, #32, #33, and #34. You might think at first glance, as I did, that #31 and #34 look similar. They aren't. Tim's special shade is almost cobalt on my skin. I thought teal when I applied #31. I'm sorry I couldn't swatch them. It was pouring outside. Once the sun returns, I will get a swatch photo of #34 for you.

I finally purchased Armani's new Crema Nera Extrema ($380). It launched when I had no work. Even yesterday, I gulped when I purchased it. Having been a huge fan of the first Crema Nera, I had to have it. Armani Beauty calls Crema Nera Extrema the supreme reviving cream. I'll tell you more about it when I feature it. It leaves my skin radiant, and I already adore it.

The Dior Golden Winter Holiday 2013 display is gorgeous. Although the lipsticks are beautiful, they are all too dark for my tastes. I selected one eye palette, one eye shadow, and the golden highlighter. As soon as I can get photos, I will start to show them to you.

The testers (only, no for-sale product yet) of Le Métier de Beauté's new lipsticks have arrived. They look and feel great. Some of your old favorites have been reformulated, and there are new colors for you to discover and enjoy. The new Hydra-Creme lipstick line was in development for three years. They are said to be fabulously long-wearing and ultra-moisturizing, and they come in a new chrome tube that some have likened to Clinique's.

Dr. Brown's RéVive Artbox 11 ($575) has arrived, and it's stunning, as always. This year, the Artbox is decorated with the exceptional painting Fifth Street C11.67 by renowned artist Caio Fonseca. Hand-selected by Dr. Brown, a true art connoisseur and avid collector, Artbox 11 is a celebration of his passion for the intersection of art and beauty. Inside the box, you'll find Moisturizing Renewal Cream Suprême, Sensitif Renewal Cream, Fermitif Neck Renewal Cream, and Defensif Renewal Serum. I wasn't able to get a great photo because of the store lighting - plus the shadows cast indoors. It's a striking box that should be used as a keepsake or jewelry box. I'll have more to say later about RéVive and my new skin care for my aging hands.

Here is the new Bobbi Brown Hollywood Glam display for the holidays. Most of what's displayed is not part of the holiday collection. The products haven't arrived yet - only the display. There will be a really cool, new, limited-edition Nude Glow Shimmer Brick ($45), a shimmering quartet of pearlescent colors to highlight the skin for lit-from-within luminescence (think of it as candlelight in a compact). Each shade also doubles up as an eye shadow.

Below, a few holiday goodies that have arrived are pictured. I purchased a new blush made for this year's breast cancer awareness campaign. I'll show you soon. It's a beautiful pink.

I'll end today's tour with the new Clé de Peau Holiday 2013 Collection. As you might imagine, a few pieces came home with me. It's a special collection. Make sure to see it before that limited-edition cream blush sells out.

I'll save my fragrance tour for another day. I await the sun and hope it comes back tomorrow afternoon.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty or courtesy of Giorgio Armani Beauty, Le Métier de Beauté, and Bobbi Brown

Giorgio Armani Tim Quinn Beauty Event Today

Giorgio Armani's ambassador Tim Quinn made a special appearance today at Neiman Marcus Tysons Galleria. There I was in my grubby Saturday dress, jeans and a sweater, next to Tim, who always looks dapper and stylish - and sometimes so serious. The real Tim is shown in the photo below. He is a lot of fun.

Thanks to Kathy Shoreman, who did most of my makeup before Tim applied his "special eye shadow," along with liner and mascara to my eyes (Kathy took the photos here). I looked pretty glam after Tim finished with me - and so unlike my mini-me neutrals look. I'll show you swatch photos of the products as soon as the sun comes back. I left this afternoon after more compliments on my eye look than I think I've ever had - and it was blue eye shadow!

I also want to show you some of the new holiday/winter displays: Chanel, Dior, Clé de Peau Beauté, and more. I'll have to write a Sunday This and That tomorrow.

I got an early start this morning, so I'm off for a little R&R. See you later.

Photo by Kathy Shoreman for Best Things in Beauty

Fun with Giorgio Armani's Tim Quinn

I am always so reluctant to post photos of myself. I have wrinkles (!) that show up when I smile, and I hate store lighting. Why does it always magnify every flaw on my face?

I spent part of my day with Tim Quinn, Giorgio Armani's best-known ambassador and makeup artist to the celebrity world. It's always a privilege to have my makeup perfected by Tim, and it was especially sweet today because he was in great demand at Neiman Marcus.

I'll admit, I admire Tim Quinn. Not only is he talented - I think he qualifies as a celebrity himself - he is a really nice person, one who often gives back at charity events. Tim is "real," fun, and easygoing. As I watched him work with the dozens of women who were there at any one time, I saw smiles and pretty faces. Just one example below...I watched Tim transform a pretty gal to a gorgeous one as he applied her makeup. Doesn't she remind you of Katie Holmes?

If you ever get the chance to meet with Tim, take it! He is on the road often. If you have a Giorgio Armani counter anywhere near you, ask them to let you know the next time Tim will be in town. You'll love him.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty (with a little help)

Giorgio Armani Beauty - New Designer Lift Foundation

Over the weekend, I had an opportunity to attend a media breakfast at which Tim Quinn, Giorgio Armani Beauty's Celebrity Face Designer and National Director of Creative Artistry, described the new Designer Lift Foundation ($65), which is now available online and at counters. Tim happened to be holding two bottles of Designer Lift when I snapped this photo before the event.

I'm lucky. I had two weeks to wear the newest addition to Armani's world-famous stable of foundations before Tim's presentation. After my two-week test, I can report that I am thrilled with Designer Lift Foundation! It gives me the radiant Armani glow, with my skin appearing to be cloaked in light, but with a satin finish. You have to see it on the skin to understand that light, glow, sheer, and satin don't have to be contradictory.

I've chosen to call the coverage medium. Designer Lift offers a bit more coverage than Luminous Silk Foundation, Armani's award-winning foundation, but manages to do so in a way that's lightweight (I can't feel it on my skin) and virtually invisible as a foundation. I don't see foundation on my face when I'm wearing Designer Lift. I see a smooth and even skin tone in a shade (#2) that looks like me - but much better. It hides blurs and imperfections as it applies quickly and evenly. I was surprised at how it provided coverage, but still seemed to disappear into my complexion.

I know Kathy Shoreman has had the same reaction - and plenty of compliments on her skin in the last two weeks. Designer Lift makes her skin look flawless. Tim mentioned that celebrities love it because it gives their faces the perfect look for HDTV. If you want to see the new, steamy Armani campaign for Giorgio Armani Beauty, with Megan Fox channeling Elizabeth Taylor and old Hollywood glamour, click on this link.

How does Armani do it? With Armani's Micro-fil technology at the heart, the company developed "real cosmetic weaves - translucent, ethereal veils of color, layered to create the perfect aura." Mr. Armani knew exactly what he wanted and asked the formulation team to create a foundation that was much like the fine, sheer textiles he uses in his fashion designs. I think he succeeded.

The smoothing and sculpting effect was created with a duo of optical fillers, velvety powders - one satiny, the other matte - that play with reflections of light to blur imperfections, intensify radiance, and enhance natural facial contours. Designer Lift Foundation provides an instant lifting effect, achieved with a "liquid powder" that forms an ultra-fine toning network on the surface of the skin. It is said to restore up to 10 years of luminosity, firm lines up to 87%, and firm the skin by 73%, with 12 hours of lifting action.

Designer Lift has a rich, emollient formula that feels good and leaves the skin plumper and denser, reinforced by adenosine, which restructures the dermal matrix, and the antioxidant vitamin E. There's added value in the SPF 20 PA +++ for sun protection.

An unexpected blue pearlizer was included in the formula for Designer Lift. A precise, finely dosed Prussian blue makes white more luminous and enhances black, making both colors appear more pure. The black and white fillers (indispensable in any foundation formula) are less dull as a result. On the skin, it has an instant visual appeal, correcting irregularities and making the skin appear smoother, translucently luminous, fresh - as if light were emanating from within. All of the pearlizers in Designer Lift reflect as much light as they receive.

The new foundation was launched with 10 available shades, with more on the way. Designer Lift will blend seamlessly with any skin tone.

• For light tones, there's a blue-tinged pearlizer, which counteracts a yellow complexion.
• For medium shades, there's a touch of pink pearlizer for a real boost of freshness (simulating the skin's microcirculation).
  
• For dark hues, a gold pearlizer brightens the complexion and accentuates its radiance

Designer Lift was developed after a "rainbow study," an analysis of more than 2,000 women that allowed Giorgio Armani Beauty to target the needs of each skin tone. As a result, the three color families above were developed with multiple shades in each. Fair shades were developed with Asian skin in mind. Medium tones were developed for European to mixed-race skin. Dark tones were created for African skin. With such a targeted approach, all women can achieve the Armani glow.

Linda Cantello, International Makeup Artist for Giorgio Armani Cosmetics, says the feather-light texture will allow the face to glow without creating a mask-like effect or emphasizing the slightest wrinkle. She recommends dabbing it into the T-zone, particularly the nose and lip contour areas, then smoothing outwards across the face using the dedicated brush, the Designer Lift Brush.

Designer Lift is available at Giorgio Armani Beauty's Web site, Armani Fifth Avenue, and fine department stores, including Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom, and Barneys.

If you want a foundation that will hide your flaws, make your skin look smooth and free of imperfections, and add a radiance that may not come naturally, you owe it to yourself to try Designer Lift Foundation.

Designer Lift and Megan Fox photos courtesy of Giorgio Armani Beauty; photo of Tim Quinn by Best Things in Beauty

The Friday Forum - October 8

This is the time of year when the Japanese Maples start to show their stuff. Sango Kaku turns the most vivid shades of chartreuse tinged with red or orange. The pretty leaves contrasted with the coral-red bark on newer branches is a stunning combination. I know that the wonders of nature inspire the artists who create fashion and cosmetics. Has Sango Kaku been anyone's muse? How about Butterfly?

Yesterday, Tim Quinn and I talked briefly about the cream eye shadows that we are all anticipating. Some of you know that they had been due to arrive in stores this month. There was a production delay, and it will be early next year before the whole collection is available. However, there are three (gold, bronze, and silver) in one of the holiday sets, and those will arrive in a few weeks. I can't wait! Three of my favorite eye shadow shades in one set! I may update the forum this afternoon to tell you a little more. Hopefully, you saw my sneak peek at Armani's Gold Rush Collection earlier this week. I asked Tim to describe the powder in the compact, and it's definitely gold/beige. The photo makes it look light pink. Tim said the compact is stunning.

It's time for The Friday Forum! We use The Friday Forum to share information. 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? Just use the comments. Don't be shy.

We have busy weekends and slow ones on the forum. I'm happy if even one reader stops by. Leave a comment, and say hello - even if you don't want to comment on beauty products. As I always do, I'll leave news of some great beauty offers (great, not just good) in the comments of this post. If you want to know where to find nice gifts with purchase, free shipping, and other deals this weekend, make sure to check the comments.

Thanks for reading Best Things in Beauty! Got anything you want to talk about?

Tim Quinn Event at Saks Chevy Chase

You heard it here first. Tim Quinn, Celebrity Makeup Artist for Giorgio Armani Beauty, wants to be a spy. After attending the premiere of Fair Game, the new thriller starring Naomi Watts as Valerie Plame and Sean Pean, who played Valerie's husband Joseph Wilson, Tim decided it would be fun to be a spy. He also thinks that a makeup artist would make a great spy because women tell makeup artists all their secrets. Love it - Tim the spy! If you have secrets, be careful what you tell your favorite makeup artist, gals.

As always, Tim was busy at the event today at Saks Fifth Avenue in Chevy Chase, Maryland. When I walked in after work, every customer seat was filled, and Tim and Armani's fabulous Rhona Samuels (and a few others actually) were making sure everyone left looking pretty.

Spread over two floors (!), the Armani team, including my local friends from Saks, were all showing off the newest Giorgio Armani Beauty colors. I asked Loyd Cassler if he would touch up my eye makeup. After he did, we went upstairs to get Tim's opinion. He liked it!

Loyd used the latest Night Viper Eye Shadow Quad, mixing the icy brown and silver shades to cover the lower lid. Then, he used the dark brown shade for the outer half of the crease. He used a black pencil to line my eyes right above my lashes and under my lower lashes on the outer half (smudged a bit). He also applied the liner on the waterline of my top lid. Then, he did something I'd never seen. He applied black liner on the outer edge of my lower lid (above the lashes) in three upward strokes and blended it, making it look like a deep shadow. It really emphasized my eyes. The lighting in the store for photos was dreadful; this is the best we could do for an eye close-up. You really can't see Loyd's eyeliner handiwork; I thought it looked great. Looks like we could have used a little concealer in the inner corners next to my nose!

Tim's favorite look for fall? Plum lips, using Rouge d'Armani #602, a gorgeous plum, with a navy blue liner on the eye. The navy liner was inspired by Armani's spring fashion collection - one that featured navy. Tim said the navy liner will carry into spring looks. I'm ready! I adore navy liner.

It was a fun visit. I've attached two photos: one of world-famous Tim and "little me" (we had to prop me up on a cushion to prevent me from looking like a "munchkin" next to Tim), and the other of my fabulous and talented friends from the Saks Fifth Avenue Armani Beauty team. Isn't the way Loyd's head is framed below by the display model's lips hilarious? That was not planned, just like his emergency need for a seamstress earlier in the day.


Left to right are Giannina Davis, Loyd Cassler, and Nimati Nazhat. You can still call Saks Chevy Chase for an appointment during the event. Tim will be in the store late tomorrow afternoon and all day Saturday. I hope Rhona will be there too!

I'll tell you more about the holiday collection in tomorrow's Friday Forum.

Giorgio Armani Beauty Acqua di Gioia and Tim Quinn's Coming to Town!

I went to Saks Fifth Avenue in Chevy Chase, Maryland, after work to visit with Loyd Cassler and see what's new. I did not intend to purchase Acqua di Gioia Eau de Tiolette (three sizes from $39.50 to $80), despite how much Loyd loves it. I'm weak, though. One spray, and I was hooked.

Acqua di Gioia is light, a breath of fresh air. Inspired by Armani's summer holidays spent on the islands of Pantelleria and Antigua, Acqua di Gioia is a "hymn to nature in all its forms." It is a clean, incredibly fresh, aquatic scent that is ultra-approachable, yet memorable. It's a nice daytime scent - one that will leave you in good graces with your coworkers.

The top notes begin with a mojito-inspired sensual blend of crushed mint leaves, warmed by brown sugar and mixed with the zest of Italian limone. At its heart, feminine floral notes emerge with acquatic jasmine, peony dew, and subtle traces of pink pepper. The base notes leave a signature Mediterranean trail, rooted by hearts of cedar wood and labdanum.

The brown sugar gives it sweetness, but it's not cloying. There's no "bakery" connection. There is a synthetic water note (Acqua di Gioia translates as "water of joy") that simulates water that's been elevated to the height of clouds or beyond - fresh and free of the earth-bound pollutants that scent our air and water. I have no idea how they created that, but it sounds good! Even the bottle evokes water, transparency, and the fluidity of nature. It's gorgeous. Mr. Armani's creations have a visual elegance that's distinctive and undeniable.

As much as I adore Giorgio Armani Beauty makeup and skin care (I count myself among the line's most ardent fans), I have never liked the fragrances. The exception is Rose Alexandrie, which I like very much (it's the only Armani fragrance I owned before today), but to my nose, the rest of them stink. Most are filled with patchouli, a note that turns me off quicker than sewer gas. Maybe they are sophisticated to some; to me, they're dreck. Yes, I realize that's a pretty strong statement, but that's how I feel about the majority of the Armani fragrances. Finally, there's a heavily promoted Armani fragrance I love! What's interesting is that my opinion is the polar opposite of what some fragrance experts think. They have written that Acqua di Gioia is common and commercial. They can have the patchouli-laden fragrances; I'll take this one!

Acqua di Gioia reminds me of Hermes Un Jardin sur le Nil. If you like that, you will also like Acqua di Gioia. Take a look at your local Armani counter, order online, or try to nab a sample. Skip down to find out how you can get a sample and free shipping if you act quickly.

DC-area gals will be blessed next week with a three-day Tim Quinn appearance at Saks in Chevy Chase! These events are always hopping, and Saks is taking appointments now. If you've met Tim, Giorgio Armani Beauty's Celebrity Face Designer, you know that he's talented and charming (dashing and darling too, with a wicked sense of humor). If you haven't met Tim, it's about time! Tim's appearance coincides with Beauty Week at Saks (which started today and ends October 9), and there's a fabulous python print tote with samples inside that can be yours with any $100 purchase. The Armani counter has a great gift with purchase too.

Tim will be available by appointment during the following hours.

• Thursday, October 7, from 11:00 to 6:30
• Friday, October 8, from 3:00 to 6:30
• Saturday, October 9, from 10:00 to 6:00

We aren't often lucky enough to snag Tim for three days, so you have lots of opportunities to go meet an extraordinary artist - the man who prepares celebrities for the red carpet. What a privilege it is to have his advice on your own look! He might tend to your whole face, or he might consult with one of the other artists to select colors for you. That will depend on how busy it is when you go. I recommend Thursday during the day - as early as possible. Don't wait until the last moment on Saturday. Just go if you can. I guarantee you will love him! You'll love the Saks team too. Make sure to give Loyd a hug. He's been so good to Best Things in Beauty readers.

To make an appointment, call the Armani counter in Chevy Chase, Maryland at (240) 497-5206. Or you can ring through the switchboard by calling (301) 657-9000 and ask for Armani Cosmetics. Tell my friends at Armani Best Things in Beauty sent you.

Want to purchase Acqua di Gioia? Or any Giorgio Armani Beauty items online? Ending tonight, with any $50 purchase and the code 09FSHIPPING, you will receive a sample of Acqua di Gioia and free shipping. Otherwise, I hope you'll sample it at your favorite Armani counter - or wait to sample at Saks during Tim's visit if you live near DC. Let me know what you think!

Photos courtesy of Giorgio Armani Beauty

Giorgio Armani Beauty Event with Tim Quinn - and Lexi's Makeover

Saks Fifth Avenue in Chevy Chase, Maryland just had a very special two-day Giorgio Armani Beauty event featuring the always-charming and extremely talented Tim Quinn, Armani Beauty's Celebrity Face Designer. My friend Lexi and I went on Friday. I had fun talking to Tim and watching him make all the ladies glamorous. I was able to get this photo of Tim with Loyd Cassler (manager of the Saks Armani Beauty team and makeup artist extraordinaire) when I arrived - just as the team had returned from lunch and right before it got crazy in there! By the time I left, there were 10 women getting their makeup polished at any given time.

I decided it would be fun to show you a makeover - this time courtesy of Loyd and Tim. They teamed up to take Lexi from her usual pretty self to alluring. To the left is Lexi's before photo, greeted by Loyd when she arrived. She was wearing a tiny amount of makeup. Loyd went to work with concealer and foundation. He used High Precision Retouch #2 to brighten her eyelids. Then he mixed Fluid Sheer #3 with Luminous Silk Foundation #5 in his hand and applied the combination with a brush to even out Lexi's complexion. He filled in her brows using the Eyebrow Defining Pencil in#3.

Loyd provided a brow tip worth sharing. When you use a brow pencil, first take your fingers and pull up the brow. Use the pencil turned flat to apply color to the brow on the inside of the arch. Then use the point of the pencil to apply color from the arch toward the hairline, all the time pulling up on the brow. This provides a natural look, particularly since your brows are thicker closest to your nose and thin out on the other side of their arch.

Next, Loyd applied two bronzers to sculpt Lexi's face. First he used Sheer Bronzer in #1 to contour her face and make her cheekbones pop. Then he used what was left on the brush to go down the center of her face. He said you should remember not to go straight from the bronzer pan to the center of your face - the result will be too much color. He used the warmer tone in the Bronze Mediterranean Palette as an allover highlighter to warm her complexion. He even used it on under her chin and on parts of her neck to give her a radiant glow.

Loyd finished his half of Lexi's makeover with Sheer Blush #10, which is one of my all-time favorites. I was wearing it that day, and Loyd explained to Lexi that she could apply it as softly as I had or a bit more dramatically, which he did because she was about to be photographed.

Tim took over at that point to make Lexi's eyes striking and glamorous. He was so sweet; he remarked that Lexi was so pretty she didn't need makeup. As I watched Tim work, I was struck by how he was able to wear that white jacket all day without getting a single makeup smudge on it - amazing! I also coveted his navy blue Armani sneakers. They were so stylish, and they looked so comfy!

Tim used the new Bronze Mediterranean Palette at our request. He worked his magic with the beautiful green shades - blending, blending, blending - then lined Lexi's eyes with Smooth Silk Eye Pencil in #3 on the top lid and lower waterline. He applied Eyes to Kill Mascara, Armani's super-hit, which was just released in a waterproof formula. He finished her eyes with few more dabs of concealer - this time #3 - and the incomparable Crema Nera Reviving Eye Cream, which is intended to be applied over your makeup to highlight your eyes while it hydrates.

Lexi's eyes were a knockout when he finished, so he used softer colors on her lips, making Lexi pretty in pink with Armanisilk Lipstick in #16 and Lip Shimmer Lip Gloss in #62. He also used Smooth Silk Lip Pencil in #1 after he had applied lipstick and gloss.

He touched up her brows a bit, and voila - she was stunning! I asked Lexi to look down so I could show you her pretty green-shaded eyes. If you think you can't wear green on your eyelids, think again! This photo shows how sheer and wearable the green shades in the new palette really are (BTiB swatches).

The finished look? A little hard to see in this photo of Lexi and Tim. Trust me - she was dazzling!

I couldn't leave "merely fabulous" alone, though. I thought it would be fun to see Lexi with a stronger lip look and knew it would photograph really well. Loyd selected shades that coordinated with her coral clothing, using Sheer Lipstick and Lip Shimmer Lip Gloss. See what a difference it made below. Lexi thought her lips were a bit too dramatic for her tastes, but Loyd and I loved the look. Immediately below is Loyd posing with Lexi for her final photo (where the lighting was better), and you can see the full effect of Tim's and Loyd's artistry.

It's always fun to watch Tim Quinn, Loyd, and the rest of the team work. I wandered around watching transformations of women of every age (from teenagers to 60-70), skin type, eye color, and ethnicity - whether they wanted a natural look or one they could wear to a party that night. Armani Beauty's makeup and skin care products have something for everyone and every occasion. No matter what your skin tone or tastes in color may be, there are perfect shades and textures for you. The talented makeup artists at the event demonstrated that repeatedly. That's why I have a closet full of Armani Beauty products.

I have just one more photo to share with you, the talented Armani Beauty team at Saks - some of my favorite people! If you ever get a chance to visit with them, I know you'll have fun. Even though it's all about beauty, we always manage to share a laugh or a great story. I consider them my friends. As I write this, I hope they are relaxing after finishing a busy weekend, and I know there are a lot of happy women at home playing with their new makeup treasures.

A special thanks to Tim (love him and hope to see him again soon), Loyd (love him and will see him again next week), and the team - and, of course, to Lexi, who agreed to be our lovely makeover model!

Armani Everything - Maestro Eye Shadows

The foundations, the latest palettes, and new products from Giorgio Armani Beauty get all the attention. The quiet workhorses of the brand often please enormously and without fanfare. I hope to change that today with my latest installment of Armani Everything!

With fanfare...The formula of Maestro Eye Shadow contains pure silk-like powders to create a soft, lightweight, and sheer texture that glides onto eyelids in a silken veil of color. Three different finishes replicate the breathtaking effects Giorgio Armani achieves with silk: matte gives smooth color; satin creates a lustrous sheen; and sparkling illuminates with iridescent shimmer (but no glitter). We are talking totally fashionable and wearable colors here.

Maestro shadows can be worn individually or blended together to create an infinite variety of perfect, personalized effects. Loyd Cassler at Saks Fifth Avenue in Chevy Chase, Maryland is a blend master, blending on the brush to create colors that are complex and gorgeous. I have watched him so many times. He'll take a dab of pink, add a dab of gold, and end up with a color that "doesn't exist" in any shadow I've ever seen! In the pink and gold case, the result was a glowing taupe. Maybe artists can figure it out. I can't. I always think it's a miracle when I watch him work.

I'm going to show you the photos of the available shades from the Armani Beauty Web site, but I have to warn you that these little swatches aren't all "true." For example, #26 is a much deeper brown "in the pan" than shown here. Perhaps these swatches are intended to show you how the shadows will look on your eyelids, rather than how they look in the pan.

Last week on my lunch hour, Loyd Cassler and I swatched a lot of the Maestro shadows. There were some that were so neutral (skin-toned) that we couldn't make them show up in a photo. Those went un-photographed. Maestro #1 was like that - a skin-toned pink that just disappeared on my skin. It is a great base color, but it wouldn't show up in the camera's lens - even wet. There were also a few shadows that we couldn't swatch because Saks had run out of testers and was waiting for this week's shipment. All photos here were taken in intense indoor light at the Armani counter.

We had to wet most of the shadows we did swatch. Armani's shadows offer such sheer, buildable color that we decided in a hurry to wet the brush to paint them on my arm. As a result, the shades you see here are more concentrated than they are when applied dry. At least you can get a sense of the infinite number of shades. If you are an artist, like Loyd, you can also figure out how to blend them to create your own customized colors.

Immediately below is what I'll call set 1. The shades, left to right are 9, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, and 2. Don't miss the beautiful light gold at right, #2. Shades #2, #3, and #4 are "staples" for me - totally gorgeous.

Immediately below is set 2. The shades, left to right are 15, 14, 13, 12, 11, and 10. Shade #10, 11, and 12 all have a lavender appearance in the pan, but you can see how different they are in intensity on my arm. The greens are very sheer when not wet down. I love them.

Immediately below is set 3. The shades left to right are 28, 27, 20, 18, 17, and 16. Shade #28 is another one of my staples, and #27, while appearing dark in the pan, is a beautiful bronze. I used shade #16 the other day as an accent color to touch up my eye shadow. It's a bluish gray that is very sheer when applied dry. Loyd liked it, which I consider a stamp of approval!


Immediately below is set 4. The shades left to right are 33, 34, 35, 37, and 38. Shade 36 wouldn't show up on my skin, so we didn't photograph it. It's yellow-toned, a perfect base color, but not a great color for pictures. Notice #35! It's an exquisite green-toned brown - and sheer, of course. A beautiful accent color on my fair skin!

I can wear every one of the shades except #5. It has too much orange for my coloring. I think it would look great on someone with olive or chocolate skin.

I cannot explain the variation between these colors and those on the Armani Web site. Some look totally different. I was so amazed by that, I made a second trip over to Saks to make sure I didn't mess up my notes! I'll see if I can find out why this week and let you know later. I can assure you that these are the shades (by number) that are available at Saks. Remember, there were a few we couldn't photograph.

Armani Beauty's Maestro Eye Shadows can be used to create any look you want to achieve - from everyday pretty to intense and dramatic. You can get a lesson later this week if you live near DC. It's a big week for Armani Beauty fans in our area. Tim Quinn, Armani's Celebrity Face Designer, will be making an appearance at Saks Fifth Avenue in Chevy Chase, Maryland. You can still book an appointment. I hear there are a few time slots left. Just call (240) 497-5206. You owe it to yourself. Giorgio Armani's cosmetics are luxurious, and Tim is a master makeup artist - rated of the best in the world! Will I see you there? I'm going Friday afternoon. Looking forward to meeting some of you!

If you don't have an Armani counter near you, check out the Armani Beauty Web site!

Sneak Peek at Giorgio Armani Beauty's Summer 2010 Colors

On Monday, Tim Quinn, Giorgio Armani Beauty Celebrity Face Designer, told me what we could expect to see at Armani counters for summer. Today, I have the privilege of sharing some photos with you. I'll bet you'll be as excited as I am!

Tim mentioned new Eyes to Kill palettes. Here they are! Knowing how you can use the Eyes to Kill shadows to create everything from a pale wash of color to a strong eye, I am beyond eager to get my hands on them! I also mentioned the relaunch of two existing palettes that were hot sellers when they were first released. By the time I realized I needed a second of each, they were impossible to find. #1, Steel Black, and #3, Gun Metal Gray (which combined shades of plum with gray), continue to be covet-worthy palettes. While you can see them at the Armani Beauty Web site, they have been out of stock for months. Soon, we will get our second chance! With plums and grays being trendy for fall 2010, you'll want to pick up #3 before it sells out again.

We can count on Armani to design gorgeous bronzer/eye shadow palettes, and this year's new edition, shown to the left, continues the magic. These palettes are unique because they work for everyone - for my fair skin, as well as those with dark skin and everyone in between. Their appeal is universal. When you get the opportunity, play with the color combinations as presented, but also mix your own shades. These palettes are like a paint kit in one elegant compact. Tim's description, "metallic copper, sea green, pale chiffon, and deep teal," was perfect, but words can't always convey as well as a photograph how stunning the results will be.

Tim also mentioned the new waterproof Eyes to Kill Mascara. Since its introduction, Eyes to Kill Mascara has taken the world by storm. It's one of the best mascaras on earth (and I don't think I'm exaggerating). Some of you have told me that the mascaras you wear smudge, smear, or melt off your lashes onto your eyelids during the day, especially during the summer. This mascara was designed for you! It will also take care of poolside beauties and beach-goers - or anyone who anticipates a dose of tears or water for the day. It will be available soon.

I know what I'm purchasing - everything! What will be on your list? If you don't have an Armani counter near you, keep checking the Armani Beauty Web site. We don't have too long to wait.

Photos courtesy of Armani Beauty

Interview with Giorgio Armani Beauty's Tim Quinn, Celebrity Face Designer

Tim Quinn, Celebrity Face Designer for Giorgio Armani Beauty, graciously spent some time with me today to talk beauty. As always, I enjoyed my time with Tim.

It's no wonder that he's hailed as one of the world's top makeup artists. Not only is Tim extraordinarily talented, he's one of the nicest guys in the beauty industry. If I were a celebrity, I would want Tim to make sure I was camera-ready - looking good and feeling confident!

I was curious about the most recent awards season and the looks his celebrity clients requested. It turns out that celebrities are just like the rest of us. They want to look younger - flawless - but don't want to look "made up." Check! They are nervous about how their photographs will appear. Check! They want a much cleaner makeup look these days. Check!

Armani Beauty cosmetics have always created perfection for the high-definition lens, so Tim aims for the dewy finish that makes us all look younger. That's dewy, not matte! There's nothing worse than too much powder. It's aging - and blah.

Although we saw smokey eyes on the red carpet, this year the focus was on lips, and the hot look was bright. After Rihanna wore Rouge D'Armani ($30) in shade #401 (red with a touch of orange), it sold out in a heartbeat. Not to worry - it's available again. Bright pinks made the season, and the plum colors, #600 and #601, have been surprise hits.

This fall, it's certain that Armani Beauty will build on the #600 range plum look with new lip colors. More immediate for summer will be some new product launches.

The newest skin care product in Armani's amazing Crema Nera family (and it's in pre-sale at Armani counters now) is Crema Nera Obsidian Mineral High Recovery Elixir. The new serum is designed to correct texture, tone the skin, and repair sun damage. It's firming too - it feels amazing on application. I'll tell you more about it this week.

Armani's super-hit Eyes to Kill Mascara ($30) will be available in a waterproof formulation. Perfect for poolside beauties, brides, others who cry at weddings, and women who can't make their mascara stay on their eyelashes, the waterproof version is sure to be a big seller.

The waterproof Eyes to Kill will arrive in stores about the same time as the new Eyes to Kill Palettes - hopefully in May. Two new shadow palettes will join the relaunch of #1, Steel Black (shown here), and #3, Gun Metal Gray (which combined shades of plum with gray). Tim described one of the new palettes as including a really light robin's egg blue and pink, a departure from the prototypical "Armani shades," and the other as including royal navy and peach shades with a chinchilla color. Given his descriptions, both will be finding their way to my house.

We can also anticipate a new bronzer palette that sounds gorgeous! This year, the bronzer will be on top and the eye shadows will be on the bottom layer. Imagine metallic copper, sea green, pale chiffon, and deep teal. Want it? I sure do!

Also in the pipeline is a new Luminous Silk Powder Foundation. When Armani's cosmetics launched, there was a fabulous powder foundation that I still keep in my desk drawer at work for touch-ups. It was discontinued. After perfecting the formula to create that "Armani look," the company will release a new formula. You gals with oily or combination skin are going to love this product!

Tim and I talked about some of the newest products in stores, including Face Fabric Radiance ($48) and Blushing Fabric ($38). If you are having a hard time selecting only one color, Tim believes the lightest shade of Blushing Fabric, #3 Pink Chiffon, is the most "universally wearable." All three shades are popular, though, because they add such a sheer pop of healthy color. Remember, a little goes a very long way! I was delighted to hear that Face Fabric Radiance has received such a great reception that it might become a permanent part of the line. I love it.

I asked Tim what Armani Beauty products every woman should have on a desert island, and I only let him choose two. His selections? Crema Nera Reviving Eye Compact ($150) and Luminous Silk Foundation ($59). If you have to edit carefully, he said to skip the trends and put your money into the products that will make your skin glow.

Naturally, I asked Tim for some tips for women over 40! He said to learn how to balance your makeup. Less is often more. Except...as we age, we often lose pigment in our lips and even our skin. That nude look that's so beautiful on our young friends may not be our best friend. Try a brighter lip than you wore 10 years ago. Add a pop of color to one feature on your face, and you'll be radiant.

Tim's advice is to learn what's appropriate for you as an individual. The old rules of beauty have flown out the window. While we used to have preconceived notions of how women should look in certain age groups, those rules are history. Instead, as it gets harder and harder to judge someone's age, it also gets harder to define the right look for an age group. Tim said that beauty is about how you feel. If you look good, you will feel good.

Beauty products can provide instant gratification. When he works with women at events, Tim wants to show them how to look their best. Often they know what they want; today's customers are well-educated. They just need help with techniques or affirmation that their color choices work for them. I can assure you, leave Tim's chair, and your day will be transformed!

DC-area gals will have a chance to sit in Tim's chair in May! He will spend two days at our Saks Fifth Avenue in Chevy Chase, Maryland on May 21 and 22. Why not book an appointment while you can? Just call the Armani counter at (240) 497-5206. Or you can ring through the switchboard by calling (301) 657-9000. He's in great demand at these events, so make sure to book early! Tell them you're a Best Things in Beauty reader. You might just get a few extra minutes with Tim!

If you don't have an Armani counter near you, check the Armani Web site for Tim's event schedule. No way to make it to one of the events? Make sure to watch Tim's videos at the Giorgio Armani Beauty Web site. His techniques, along with Armani's superb makeup, will show you how to look your best.

Photos courtesy of Armani Beauty

Armani Beauty Blending Blush Duo

Have you tried the Blending Blush Duo ($60) from Giorgio Armani Beauty? It's the ultimate in cream blushers, with two fabulous shades in each compact. Why two? Loyd Cassler at Saks uses the lighter shade to soften the edges, making the blusher look like a second skin.

The Blending Blush Duo is aptly named because it blends and layers so nicely. The Micro-fil cream texture allows the blusher to morph into fluid color on contact with the skin. The result? Soft, flushed, and natural color that subtly highlights and sculpts the face and cheeks.

The blush duo is perfect for women with dry skin because it doesn't sit on the surface of the skin like some blushers. When the Armani Team says it morphs into the skin, they are not exaggerating.

The duo is available in four shades combos. I'll bet there's one that's perfect for you!

• 01 - Pink Rose/Sand
• 02 - Coral/Warm Sand
• 03 - Terra Cotta/Mocha
• 04 - Rosewood/Raspberry

The last time Tim Quinn applied my makeup at Saks, he selected Blending Blush Duo in 01 - Pink Rose/Sand, a compact I already had. When he was done, I had prominent cheekbones and just the right amount of color on my cheeks. Someone who didn't know that one of the best makeup artists on earth had just applied my makeup might have thought I always looked that good. The effect was really natural and pretty.

Quality cream blushers will enhance your appearance if applied correctly, and this one's no exception. Start with a light application and layer as needed, blending well for a seamless look. It's that easy! I use Armani's Blender Brush ($47), but you can use any foundation brush to apply cream blushers.

I especially like the fact that there are two shades in the Blending Blush Duo, allowing me to use only one or blend them together. Depending on the look I'm trying to achieve, I can sculpt and/or add a glow. If I want a bronze look, I can use the brown-toned shade alone - just like a bronzer. If I want to add color to my cheeks, I can use the bright shade alone (Pink Rose most often for me) or modulate the brightness of the color by mixing it with the brown-toned shade. Depending on how you mix, you can achieve a "wardrobe of color" with just one compact.

I have purchased two of the Blending Blush Duos - the colors are versatile, and I love to mix and match. I highly recommend these blushers!

You can purchase them at the Armani Beauty Web site, Saks Fifth Avenue, and wherever there is an Armani Beauty counter.

Photo courtesy of Giorgio Armani Beauty

Armani Beauty Event with Tim Quinn

Always popular and a real draw, Tim Quinn spent two days at Saks in Chevy Chase, Maryland. The store usually has about 7-8 stations going, and everyone wants to spend a few minutes with Tim. He has a great eye for beauty, and he's so nice, friendly, and approachable. He's the perfect Armani ambassador. Women were leaving Tim looking pretty, and isn't that what it's about?

Look at Nicole Ojeda, a Best Things in Beauty (BTiB) reader, with Tim in this photo. Doesn't she look gorgeous? Tim always looks tan, rested, and terrific (and I would love to know his secret, given the time he spends on the road). This is a camera-phone photo - too bad we didn't have a pro there to memorialize all the BTiB visits. You can click on the photo to enlarge it.

I chatted with Tim about Spring 2010 products while he did my eye makeup and touched me up with some foundation and blusher. I have to admit that I was so interested in what he was telling me that I didn't pay as close attention as I should have to how he was doing my eyes (duh!). More on that below.

Tim and Loyd were surprised that the new Rouge d'Armani lipsticks had not arrived at the store for the event. These will be available in October in 18 shades grouped in four color families: Beige, Brown, Red, and Pink/Plum. The Beige shades have mother of pearl instead of white pigments, giving them greater transparency. The warm Brown shades promise a vibrant, bronze glow. The Reds, without mother of pearl, are intense and pigment-rich. The Pink/Plum shades provide a wide spectrum of pinks, from delicate lilac to intense fuchsia. The new lipsticks promise to add long-lasting color with moisture, a rare feat for a long-wear lipstick.

I learned that the Eyes to Kill Eyeshadow Palette in Rouge Iron was selling out - go figure. Tim swore it looked good on women with darker skin.

I asked Tim, "What's coming?" He told me the look for Spring 2010 would be PINK - all shades of pink. I'm already excited about that. Eyes to Kill shadow colors will be "ethereal," meaning sheer washes of subtle color. By that point, I was so excited with anticipation I lost all track of my own eyes, which he was "painting" with sheer washes of Manta Ray color. The spring line, in the final stages of Mr. Armani's selections, was sounding custom-tailored for me. There will be a new product that will be something of a hybrid between Fluid Sheer and Face Fabric. This sounds really interesting for spring and summer, given that most of us like to tone down the full-face look in the warm months. Knowing that Armani won't disappoint, I'm excited! I'll get you more information on the upcoming products as soon as I can.

Now, my eyes...Tim used concealer to create a base and then applied the #4 duo (Stone) shown here. He used both the pale blue and taupe and blended, blended, and blended. Then he used the dark grey pencil and drew a thin, expert line at the base of my lashes. Finishing with Eyes to Kill Mascara, the effect was pretty. His artistry was in his use of the two colors - where he used one, and where he used both. Magic! Plus the liner application was as good as it gets. He also brushed some Face Fabric over the central redness in my face (we laughed together as Loyd said, "Throw some makeup on her") and applied #1 Blending Blush Duo (Pink Rose/Sand).

I went from there to my doctor's office where I learned that I broke a metatarsal bone in my hand when I fell Monday. At least I looked and felt good when I got the news! Let me share with you that typing with your pinkie taped to the next finger is not easy.

When you get the chance, sign up for an Armani event with Tim. You might want to pay more attention to your face than I did. You can recreate the look he demonstrates!

Photos courtesy of Armani Beauty and Nicole Ojeda.

Armani Crema Nera Giveaway Contest

I've saved the pièce de résistance for our last September Armani contest! The generous Armani Beauty Team at Saks Fifth Avenue in Chevy Chase, Maryland donated a Crema Nera Regenerating Cream ($230) for this week's Best Things in Beauty Giveaway Contest. Wow!

Crema Nera is Armani's luxurious skin care centerpiece. You can read about the Crema Nera Restoring Serum at our July posting or the Crema Nera OMC3 SPF 15 at our August posting.

Here's how Armani Beauty describes Crema Nera...

Crema Nera is a unique cell regenerating cream inspired by the Italian island of Pantelleria. Containing a unique formulation of obsidian, a natural mineral compound extracted from the petrified lava on Pantelleria, Crema Nera perfectly captures the earth's rejuvenating secrets. This exceptional, patented formula is scientifically proven to actively restore and revitalize skin's natural radiance and regenerate surface cells.

• Boosts skin radiance
• Helps refine and perfect skin texture
• Nourishes and hydrates

Here's how I describe it: a heavy-duty moisturizer with a lightweight feel. Crema Nera effectively banishes dryness, evens skin tone, and adds the radiance associated with healthy skin. I have used it as my day moisturizer (in place of La Mer), and it tames my dry skin. I have seen it take the redness out of one friend's skin, and "light up" another. Pretty cool!

How can you win this incredible giveaway? Just e-mail bestthingsinbeautycontests@gmail.com and tell us what your favorite Best Things in Beauty Armani posting has been. There are a bunch of them because I love my Armani cosmetics and skin care. A little creativity in your e-mail won't hurt (a green-eyed monster won an Armani foundation for Valerie). A small team of judges will select the winner, who will be announced on September 22.

The contest deadline is 5:00 pm Eastern time on Monday, September 21. I am posting this giveaway on Free!Grechen, my favorite site for giveaway contests.

Don't forget that Saks in Chevy Chase has an Armani Beauty event coming up on September 25 and 26. The events are always fun, and Tim Quinn will be there both days. And, you will get to meet Loyd!

Photo courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue.

Another Tim Quinn Appearance Alert, New Armani Lipsticks and More

Armani Beauty followers know that Tim Quinn is Armani's National Director for Creative Artistry. Tim will be available for makeup consultation and application appointments at the Saks Fifth Avenue in Chevy Chase, Maryland for two days, September 25 and 26. Tim will show you how to use Armani products to "put your best face forward." If you want to see the new Fall colors, including the upcoming new Rouge d'Armani lipsticks (more on them below), and you live anywhere near Washington, DC, I highly recommend that you plan a session with Tim. He's fabulous - and as I said in an earlier post, fun too!

To make an appointment, call Armani Beauty at (240) 497-5206 and ask to make an appointment with Tim for Friday or Saturday. Want to learn more about him? Read part of his Armani Beauty bio on Best Things in Beauty.

You can join the elite group of celebrities who have worked with Tim! If you can't make this event, but live in our area, you have another fun option to learn about Armani Beauty products. You can pull together your friends and have a private class with Loyd Cassler "off the sales floor." The private classes are a blast, and Loyd is fabulous. If you have been reading Best Things in Beauty, you know I think the world of him and his talent.

In fact, the Armani Beauty Team at Saks Fifth Avenue in Chevy Chase, Maryland has donated our first two September giveaways, and you are going to be stunned at what will be available. I am (too bad it's a total conflict to enter one's own contest)!

The Rouge d'Armani lipsticks promise long-lasting comfort - eight hours of comfort, moisture, and hydration with rich impact and satin shine. The lipsticks will be available in 18 shades in the nude, bronze, red, and pink/plum families. I've picked out 10 shades I think I can't live without. I'm saving up.

Photo courtesy of Armani Beauty.