My Weekend Trip around the Internet

I am so far behind on blog reading, I decided to take a trip around the beauty-sphere. I'll take you along with me. Isn't that rose pretty? When my David Austin roses start to bloom, I'm always in heaven.

My friend The Non-Blonde liked the new Edward Bess Illuminating Eye Base as much as I did. She has swatches of two shades, along with a view of eye shadows placed over them. Check out her feature! Plus, you've got to check out fat cat at her Saturday post.

I'm totally behind the curve on shopping. The Beauty Look Book can show you swatches of the new Le Métier de Beauté Haute House nail and lip collection that's exclusive to Neiman Marcus. By Ken Downing, of course. I bought the glosses. If the sun ever makes an appearance here (it didn't today), I'll get photos.

Some of you were chatting about Burberry's Sheer Summer Glow on The Friday Forum. See it at Café Makeup.

Time4Beauty got her hands on Dior's 1 Coulour Eye Gloss from the Croisette  Collection. It's very pretty, but I think I'm going to pass. The rest of the collection wowed me.

Makeup artist and beauty connoisseur Pati Dubroff shared her expert advice with Fab over Forty.

You a M·A·C lover? Check out the Casual Coleur Collection for Summer 2012 at Chic Profile.

I adore lily of the valley fragrances. Daly Beauty wrote a nice feature to celebrate the nodding white flowers for May.

Interested in the equestrian lifestyle? DivaDebbi has the scoop in an interesting interview.

How's this for original? Messy Wands recreated the mystery lipstick she saw at Pinterest.

Olfactoria's Travels featured Amourage Beloved this week. It appears to contain a symphony of notes. I need to sample that one!

Product Girl awarded its VIP of the week to Becca's Dusty Rose Anniversary Palette. It looks very pretty.

Rouge Deluxe wrote a lovely, flower-filled tribute to a lost friend. Beautiful!

I made my way through most - not all - of my blog list, but didn't get much further. Time to snap a few photos outdoors. I see the sun trying to peek out.

Photo by Best Things in Beauty

Weekend Stroll around the Internet - February 12

As the birds finish off this winter's crop of holly berries, let's take a stroll through beauty land. Here are some of the features that caught my eye this week.

The Non-Blonde and The Beauty Look Book are both responsible for my recent Sunday Riley purchases. I'll show you some of them this week. For now, check out The Non-Blonde's feature on Fool's Gold and Burnt Eggplant Prismasilk Eye Shadow.

This week, The Beauty Look Book featured five gorgeous Tom Ford Lip Glosses - more temptation.

I've "almost ordered" - on more than one occasion - Peter Lamas' Avocado & Olive hair care products. Now that I've seen Daly Beauty, I must.

DivaDebbi tempted me with a styling product for our hair. She tried and loved Shu Uemura's Tasai Versatile Styling Cream.

Love Laura Mercier? Her Très Chic offers bold and beautiful pink and coral shades for spring. Fab over Forty has swatches.

If you like cream blushes, Gouldylox Review's feature is mandatory reading.

I had never heard of Cecilia Wong and her skin care - before I read Product Girl. Now I'll remember her.

I wish there was a Paul & Joe counter in the DC area. There are salons that carry the line, but they never seem to get the new introductions. I'm shopping vicariously for the kittens at Messy Wands and Rouge Deluxe.

Modesty Brown featured a Rouge Bunny Rouge Lip Gloss I don't have: Secret Places of Love. Gorgeous!

Beauty Black Book show us the new M·A·C Vera Crushed Metallic Pigments. I purchased two items from this collection, but not these.

I love Red Flower products. Eyeliner on a Cat tried a few, and now she's a fan too.

Finally, for another set of Chanel Lèvres Scintillantes Glossimer Spring 2012 swatches, check out Blondy Candy.

Will you be watching the Grammy Awards tonight?

Photo by Best Things in Beauty

Weekend Stroll around the Internet - February 4

Let's spend some time with all things beautiful, starting with the Hellebore blooms in my garden. The brave flowers, nodding in the cold, signal life in mid-winter. Turning to another beautiful subject, I took a quick trip around beauty land today. Let's retrace my steps.

I'm a huge Shiseido fan. It was nice to see The Non-Blonde feature Shiseido's Makeup Accentuating Color Stick. If you haven't discovered the joys of Shiseido, where have you been?

The Beauty Look Book has me drooling over Sunday Riley makeup. Check out the blushes she bought, and see if you can resist. I'm about to cave and call Barneys in New York.

Who doesn't love Tina Fey? She's been glowing on the red carpet. Fab over Forty had the scoop on her Votre Vu look at the 2012 SAG Awards.

Daly Beauty showed swatches of Benefit's Sun Beam. I haven't had time to photograph mine, so head over to see her "skylight" swatch. What a beauty!

DivaDebbi continued her series, Rules of Beauty Civility: Nail Salons. It's a must-read.

Turquoise blue nails, anyone? You have to see butter LONDON Slapper at Product Girl.

Gouldylox Reviews found a favorite new product for her parched lips. It could become mine too.

Today, Messy Wands published the comparison photos you've all wanted to see: NARS Gaiety vs. Dior Rosy Glow.

Interested in the winner of the 2012 Indie Fragrance FiFi Award? Eyeliner on a Cat has the news.

Olfactoria's Travels featured a new-to-Luckyscent fragrance line: Neela Vermeire Créations. I got the samples, but haven't had time to write a cogent feature. My favorite is Bombay Bling. Read the notes to see which one you might like.

Fruity Lashes featured a lipstick that I must have. Rouge Terrybly Shimmer in Kiss Me Quick looks gorgeous!

I never tire of seeing Edward Bess swatches. Time4Beauty posted stunning photos of Eternal Passion Ultra Slick Lipstick.

See you tomorrow! I hope you have a nice Saturday evening.

Photo by Best Things in Beauty

Weekend Stroll around the Internet - January 14

What could be more cute? The news that riveted the world in the last day (other than crises and other glum news) was this photo of the little guy who is, reportedly, the new royal pooch. I hope we see much more of the little lab.

I have missed my Weekend Roundup for weeks! With the craziness of my schedule, I could barely keep up with featuring the latest makeup and other beauty world news. I have spent some time early each morning perusing some of the blogs I love. Here were a few of my favorite recent reads.

The Non-Blonde gave us a look at the NARS Spring 2012 Color Collection. I'm trying to order a few pieces, but I can't get the site to respond to the Gilt coupon I purchased. I need to call.

I love my Kate Somerville products, and I also love reading Kate's recommendations. Fab over Forty brought us tips on how to get red-carpet ready - just in time for the Golden Globes Awards. Anyone going?

The Beauty Look Book featured the new Dior Vernis Garden Party spring colors. They look covet-worthy in her photos.

Daly Beauty showed us why Chanel's Rouge Coco Shine in Bel Ami is the perfect shade for the "lipstick challenged."

Wondering how to use Laura Mercier's new Foundation Primer in Radiance? Check out Product Girl.

Into jazzy nails? Pop over to Café Makeup to see Zoya's Fleck Effect.

About 10 days ago, I purchased two Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blushes. Can you believe I haven't had time to try them? See what the attraction is at Gouldylox Reviews. I'll try to get photos of mine this weekend.

Fortunately, DivaDebbi saved me from another drugstore purchase I had considered. Find out why you might not need L'Oreal's new Colour Riche Balm.

My first look at the Bobbi Brown Rose Gold Collection came from Rouge Deluxe. I can't wait! My Bobbi Brown manager tells me it's arriving here in February.

A couple of weeks ago, Eyeliner on a Cat chose her favorite fragrances from 2011. I'm sure you know about some of them; find out what might also entice you.

Time4Beauty has intrigued me with her review of Rouge Bunny Rouge's Deliquesce Make-Up Melt Cleanser. I may need to order it!

That's it for now. I'm starving and need to go eat something before I head out to run some errands. I'll be back later with some new makeup. Happy Weekend!

Photo courtesy of People.com

Catching Up: Weekend Stroll around the Internet - December 19

The week before Christmas is always busy - even if all the gift shopping has been completed. Do you ever get that panicked feeling that you have to procure all the "staples," such as cat litter and cat food, because you don't want to try to park at a retail store on the last few days before Christmas? I ran a lot of errands this weekend. Still, I found a little time each morning to check out the last 10 days of my favorite beauty blogs. These features caught my eye.

I love greige, and I got a box from Butter London recently. Check out The Non-Blonde's latest favorite. I should have ordered it!

So many women suffer with rosacea, some without even knowing they have it. Fab over Forty got great advice from a dermatologist. Find out how to get the red out.

Daly Beauty featured fantastic brow tips. Her feature is a must-read.

The Beauty Look Book compared Rose Envolée (from Le Blanc, an Asia exclusive Collection and Nordstrom Anniversary 2011 exclusive) and Éclosion (from Spring 2012). Her photos are beautiful, and you can decide whether Éclosion is a must-have. I think it is.

I showed you last week my new Rouge Bunny Rouge Fire Drops. Café Makeup also ordered them during the Zuneta sale. See what she thought (it's all good).

Love Rouge Bunny Rouge with the rest of us? Have you tried the cleanser? You might after you read Time4Beauty.

Gouldylox gives her heart (and time) to Karma Dogs. From now until the end of the year, 15% of your purchase of jeune d’ âge organics Anti-Oxidant Moisturizing Eye Crème will go to Karma Dogs!

Product Girl was shopping. See what grabbed her, from NARS to a Kate Spade bag. I love the bag. It looks perfect for a laptop.

One of the latest, coolest Tarte Cosmetics offerings was featured at Beauty Black Book. You need to see Puttin' on the Glitz.

I was doing fine, avoiding the fall nail color I-wants, until I saw Le Métier de Beauté's Gilded Lily Nail Lacquer at Messy Wands. I'll be making a call today.

I have to run off now, but I'll leave you with visions of chocolate, courtesy of Beauty, Bacon, Bunnies. I'm getting hungry.

Photo by Best Things in Beauty

Weekend Zoom around the Internet - December 4

What does this gorgeous white tiger have to do with a beauty roundup? I think he's beautiful. My weekend browse had to be fast this weekend. I had a busy schedule. Come along with me.

Fruity Lashes featured the Dolce & Gabbana Ruby Collection for Holiday 2011. Drool!

I don't know how The Non-Blonde found Mirabella (actually I think they found her), but I've fallen for the lip colors she's been featuring. Daydream Colour Sheer is my kind of lipstick. You can also see Sarah Jessica Parker in one of her increasingly frequent fashion victim moments at The Non-Blonde.

AVEENO Ambassadors (I'm privileged to be one) are given access to beauty industry experts so that we can share information with our readers. I'm feeling somewhat guilty about missing the latest, greatest hair news from Patrick Melville, but Fab over Forty didn't. Her feature on hair styles for women over forty left me thinking, "These are great styles for any age!"

Wish I could have been with GlowyJoeyBunny and Oflactoria's Travels when they went fragrance shopping in New York this week!

I didn't think I'd buy the bareMinerals The Glamorous Life collection until I saw Gouldylox Reviews.

Check out the new Benefit blush at Product Girl! I may "need" it. I wouldn't mind having the Butter London Glitter Trio either. So pretty!

Beauty Black Book featured a pretty new makeup palette by Smashbox. It contains cream liners, glosses, lipsticks, and powder blush - nice!

Head over to Blondy Candy to see swatches of two of my favorite cream blushes - from La Prairie.

Time4Beauty was also on the La Prairie beat with a review of their Anti-Aging Foundation.

Finally, for your weekend entertainment, read "cranky" DivaDebbi's Rules of Beauty Salon Etiquette.

Don't forget this last week of the Beauty Bloggers (and Brands) for Charity Auction!

Photo courtesy of tiger-wallpapers.com

Weekend Stroll around the Internet

I had time for a quick spin through beauty and fragrance blogs this morning. I couldn't visit all my favorites because I was swept away reading the features below. Now I have Small Business Saturday shopping to do.

Dolce & Gabbana's makeup captured my attention this year, and The Beauty Look Book just steered me D&G's way again with the lovely new holiday collection!

The Non-Blonde featured two beautiful lip glosses from a new-to-me company. I'll have to check out Mirabella Beauty!

If you want to learn more about skin care and a common malady, head over to Fab over Forty and actually see melasma.

Everything's coming up roses at Daly Beauty.

There was another pretty look (and some excellent comparisons) at Le Métier de Beauté's Come One, Come All Kaleidoscope at Modesty Brown.

If Time4Beauty's photos aren't enough to make you run out and buy Dior's Addict Lip Polish Smoothing Lacquer, I don't know would be.

Gouldylox Reviews modeled the Daytime Drama Palette by Three Custom Color Specialists. I think it's pretty.

Delicate Hummingbird has an excellent pictorial on Giorgio Armani Beauty's High Precision Retouch Concealer.

It’s the season for holiday candles. Many of us are tired of the usual pine and pomander (fruit-and-spice) offerings, so Now Smell This reviewed a candle that qualifies as “festive” without being a cliché," Astier de Villatte Naples.

While we're on a scented holiday theme, check out Eyeliner in a Cat's gift guide. She reminded me that I must buy that book.

I love just about everything Shiseido, so it's no wonder Fruity Lashes tempted me with the foundation brush.

We finally got a SpaceNK in the DC area, but I found out at Product Girl that I don't have to leave my desk chair to get a great GWP...if I hurry.

Oh my...who would have known if it weren't for Beauty Black Book? Tom Pecheux did the makeup for the 2011 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, ensuring that all of the models' assets were presented nicely.

Fall-tinged hydrangea photos by Best Things in Beauty

Weekend Stroll around the Internet

Yesterday, I attended a beauty trend event at Lord & Taylor at Tysons Corner Center. See those arms in the air? The savvy attendees knew the answers to the questions and competed for door prizes. It was a great event in many ways. I enjoyed the brief presentations by representatives from various brands, and I also enjoyed the "polite enthusiasm" of the crowd. The catered breakfast hit the spot, the goodie bag was filled with lovely samples, and everyone was having a great time - during the stage presentations and afterwards. I saw many fabulous makeovers before I left. Liza Wade, manager of the beauty department, put together a great show! Don't miss the next one if you live in the DC area.

That's what happened locally this week. Here's what beauty lovers should see on the Web.

The Non-Blonde featured the exquisite fall nail lacquer shades from Le Métier de Beauté. I purchased Urban Dweller and could easily have bought all of them - if only I had more money.

You must see what L'Oreal's Voluminous False Fiber Lashes Mascara did to Fab over Forty's eyelashes!

The same is true for Blondy Candy's feature on Giorgio Armani Beauty's new Eyes to Kill Stretch Lengthening Mascara. You don't have to be able to read Russian to appreciate the beautiful photos and wonderful mascara.

Daly Beauty is always tempting me with fragrances that sound divine. I'm already pricing Ivoire de Balmain.

Gouldylox Reviews featured Chanel's Ombre D'Eau Iridescent Fluid Eye Shadow. If you've never tried it, you have to see the sheen.

Tom Ford has created a lot of buzz with his new line of cosmetics. See the Silvered Topaz Eye Color Quad at The Beauty Look Book. I like it. I think I like it more than Sabrina does.

I love cream blushes, and Fruity Lashes featured one I may have to order. I've never tried ELLIS FAAS makeup before (can you believe I've resisted?). I think the temptation is now too great to avoid the line.

Product Girl and I received AVEENO's new Positively Nourishing Body Moisturizers last week. She's a lot faster than I am, so please read the review. These AVEENO hydrators will be a must-have for winter.

Check out Messy Wands, modeling two of Giorgio Armani Beauty's new holiday colors.

For a sneak peek at Dior's Spring 2012 color collection, just visit Beauty Black Book. Then start saving.

Finally, for a touch of "just plain adorable," head over to Modesty Brown.

Photo by Best Things in Beauty

Catching Up: My Weekend Stroll around the Internet, Finally!

With multiple events Saturday, I found myself without enough time to publish a weekend stroll through some great beauty features. With apologies for my delay, here are some blog posts that have recently caught my attention. I've had an extra two days to browse!

Beauty Black Book had a great comparison of Dior's Vernis Silver Lake nail color, developed to celebrate Allure magazine's 20th anniversary, and Chanel's Graphite. She made me want Silver Lake.

The Non-Blonde also turned me into a lemming. Now I need Sue Devitt's Eye Intensifier Pencil in Surat. I had never seen the color. Once I did, I realized I couldn't live without it. As for the darling kitty? Looks like Savannah, except Savvy has very green eyes. Adorable!

I've been preparing a feature on Revlon's new Colorburst Lip Butters. I bought them last month on a whim, and I really like them. So does Café Makeup. Think of yourself as a brand snob? These new lip lovelies could change your mind.

Fab over Forty featured AVEENO's Eczema Therapy. I used to have eczema and would love to have had this moisturizer then. It's probably a great moisturizer for anyone with sensitive skin. I must remember it.

Speaking of skin care, Daly Beauty discovered a fab foaming cleanser. She's officially in love.

I never tire of looking at Beauty Look Book's beautiful photographs, even when I have the same products! Check out her amazing photos of Le Métier de Beauté's Merry Metallics, one of the two nail lacquer gift sets by Ken Downing for the holidays.

I love Tarte Cosmetics, and I love cream eye shadows. Gouldylox Reviews showed a must-have set for the holidays: Eye Candy Shadow Sticks. I'd buy the set just for Champagne.

Check out Blondy Candy's makeover by Guerlain National Makeup Artist Marcus Monson - exquisite!

I enjoyed watching EauMG's video review of Etat Libre d'Orange Jasmine & Cigarette Eau de Parfum. You can almost smell it when you watch and listen.

Olfactoria's Travels made me wish for another fragrance to arrive at my door. Find out why I think I need Enlèvement au Serail by Parfums MCDI.

Messy Wands looks gorgeous in Giorgio Armani Beauty's Gloss d'Armani in Plum #604 from the holiday collection. You must see it on her.

Fruity Lashes gave us a preview of Jill Stuart's Spring 2012 collection, and it looks seriously stunning. See if you can resist.

Time4Beauty featured byTerry's Lumiere Veloutee Lumi-Diffusing Ultra-Correcting Liquid Foundation. I need to swing by the new counter at Bloomingdale's to see it.

MAKE UP FOR EVER opened a boutique in Los Angeles! See a photo at Product Girl and weep if you don't live near there.

I've always wondered about DivaDebbi. Since we've never met in person, I have imagined a great girlfriend. Now I've realized she's got a zany streak! She threw out makeup. Yes! Tossed it. Find out why.

That's all for now. I'll try to write my stroll on time this coming weekend.

Photo by Best Things in Beauty

Weekend Stroll around the Internet

It was a very busy day. I went over to Nordstrom Montgomery Mall to visit with my friends from Le Métier de Beauté this morning. I was expecting to see Joanna and Lisa, but I didn't expect to run into Erin Lockard or meet Jerry. It was great fun!

Before I left, I ran into Eddie Hernandez from Chantecaille. I didn't know he would be there, so I had a delightful opportunity to say hi before I ran off to deal with some family needs.

Early Saturday and today, though, I had time to visit some of my favorite beauty blogs, and I want to share some superb features I found.

A little more than a week ago, I had ordered the new Edward Bess palettes. The Non-Blonde received her Back to Basics palette and tempted us with the beautiful, natural shades this week. I'm still waiting eagerly for mine to arrive.

Fab over Forty featured the glamorous Dior Holiday 2011 collection. Make sure to pop over to see it. This is a beautiful collection.

The Beauty Look Book showcased the stunning Le Métier de Beauté Atlantis Sunset and Nadine lip colors. These are exclusive to Neiman Marcus Northpark. I'd love to have them, but I want to try them first. No way that will happen from DC! I was glad to see great photos of them.

DivaDebbi gave us a look at the Smashbox Holiday eyeliners in the Life is Your Set Holiday Pencil Kit. I want one!

Messy Wands has great swatches of all eight shades of Chanel's Rouge Allure Velvet.

I love jasmine and Francis Kurkdjian. Even though Kurkdjian isn't a favorite of Olfactoria's Travels, she found a place in her heart for Promesse de l’Aube - and created a lemming.

I'm on the list to purchase Dustin Lujan's holiday Le Métier de Beauté Kaleidoscope, Antiquité Poupée. Product Doctor modeled it for us!

I've been curious about Sue Devitt's Nordic Trek Illuminating Eye Shadow Quad. Fruity Lashes to the rescue!

There's an Ellis Faas sneak peek at Time4Beauty! These colors look like must-haves.

One of the new BareMinerals eye shadows is calling my name. You can see it at Beauty Black Book.

I hope you enjoy your Sunday! With that extra hour's sleep, we should have a nice day, right?

Photo courtesy of Midwest Living

Weekend Stroll around the Internet

This is what it's doing just west of here. Seriously, it's snowing in October in Virginia! Worse than that, our driving rain may end later today as wet snow. I am not ready for this. I want to hole up with Charlie and stay warm and dry. What better time than to catch up with some of my favorite beauty bloggers?

The Non-Blonde gave us a peek at the NARS Hanamichi Kabuki Palette for holiday. It's gorgeous! I want it simply for its looks. We'll have to beg Gaia to show us swatches - soon.

Beauty Look Book reviewed the Dolce & Gabbana Perfect Finish Creamy Foundation. I wondered about it when I placed my D&G order, but I can't buy a new foundation online. I wish Saks would bring a counter to the DC area. Anyhow, Sabrina made me want it.

Do you like rose fragrances as much as I do? You must read all about Floris Snow Rose at Daly Beauty.

DiviDebbi is a star! We've known that for a long time, of course, but now our beauty bud has been featured on the cover of the Greenwich Time. Debbi is an inspiration!

You want to see something amazing? Go look at the way Fab over Forty transformed a 50+ woman with some makeup.

I see there's another Watt's Up fan out there. There's a great feature at Product Girl, another reason why you should buy Benefit's latest illuminator.

My Beauty, Bacon, Bunnies girlfriend took on the taboo subject of sex - in an acceptable way, of course - in the context of fragrance.

Blondy Candy and I share a passion of Guerlain's KissKiss Maxi Shine Lipsticks. You have to go see the pretty Baby Shine, even if it is discontinued. Guerlain, please bring back all our favorite KissKiss formulas!

This year, one of the fragrances that captured my attention was Ormonde Jayne's Woman. Lovethescents asked me (for months, I think!) why I hadn't tried it. She was right. I love it. Find out all about it at Eyeliner on a Cat, since I haven't had time to write a feature that does it justice (but I will).

London MakeUp Girl featured Chantecaille this week. Just go there. You'll see why. For another Chantecaille feature from this week, check out Product Doctor. Have I told you in the last few days how much I love Chantecaille?

Messy Wands is brave. She showed us how Dior's divine Rouge Dior Or Étoilé looks when worn alone. Then she used it to add some pop to an already-pretty red. Nice!

I was buried in work this week and missed all the commotion over at Olfactoria's Travels - until this morning. Settle in with your favorite drink and read all the comments.

I really wanted to see swatches of the new M·A·C Glitter & Ice Mineralize Shadows. The very two shades that lured me were featured at Beauty Black Book! I think they may be too glittery for me. What do you think?

I've been curious about KORRES' Quercetin & Oak "Antiageing & Antiwrinkle Eye Cream. Fruity Lashes satisfied my curiosity!

One more, then I really must go run some errands in the miserable, cold rain. The cuddle with Charlie must wait.

I still haven't purchased the latest Paul & Joe makeup colors, and Rouge Deluxe is already featuring spring! Now I'll skip fall and spring forward. The collection looks stunning and features those P&J darling kitties.

I hope you have a wonderful, snow-free weekend!

Photo courtesy of wfsb.com

Weekend Stroll around the Internet

I worship at the altar of Giorgio Armani. I think his designs are original, stunning, elegant, graceful...just insert any superlative you can imagine. The man is a fashion and beauty genius. On the Spring 2012 Ready to Wear runway in Milan, he showed split trousers, a jazzy way to glam up (and lighten up) an ensemble for warmer weather. I simply hope the lovely top of this look is delivered to stores with lining. Even if it's not, I could find a discreet way to line the top.

At least Armani's transparent designs offer a masterful elegance. In contrast, look at this silly Emilio Pucci design by Peter Dundas. While most of the spring collection shown in Milan had a colorful gypsy theme, this white number should have earned his show an R rating He wasn't alone in his fascination with nudity. Check out the Dior Paris runway below, courtesy of designer Bill Gaytten. Designer after designer (all men from what I've seen) sent models down the spring show runways exposed.

The nude look, so popular with male designers, doesn't mesh with the reality of the way women dress or the reality of a world recession (or depression, depending on the definition). Every time I see a "fashion statement" like this, I think, "In your dreams." It will be a happy day when designers return to the reality that most of us live. Fashion may be about art and inspiration, but nothing about these exposed designs inspires me. Not only that, if I were an owner of one of the leading fashion houses, I would want to see creations so exquisite they entice retailers to order and women to spend - even in a time of scarce money. Nothing about these nonsensical looks is enticing to women. End of rant.

On a happier note, I read a couple of blog features this week that inspired me to open my wallet or validated my impressions. I haven't ordered anything yet, but the weekend is young.

Daly Beauty fascinated me with her feature on powdery perfumes - from baby powder to face powder, the comforting scent is clean and fresh.

I'm enjoying The Non-Blonde's Paris features. She's slowing revealing the fragranced narrative of her trip.

We don't hear enough about Trish McEvoy these days. Fab over Forty remedied that. I tried to buy a lipstick last week from her latest display. Sold out!

Olfactoria's Travels expressed my opinion of Acqua Di Parma Gelsomino Nobile perfectly. It's a fragrance I should have loved. After the first few minutes on my skin, I decided I didn't need it. It's nice to read an expert's opinion.

I still haven't purchased Exude. Fruity Lashes reminded me I must try the new lip colors.

Delicate Hummingbird featured a M·A·C blusher I might actually buy! Since it's permanent, I don't have to worry that it's a two-week wonder, already unavailable.

I was captured by Prada Candy, which I've featured. Eyeliner on a Cat described it perfectly. I need a full bottle.

Beauty Black Book is a great place to see the NARS Holiday Collection.

Product Doctor compiled her favorites from September. She selected some great products!

There were more great blog features this week. Make sure to click on the blog links on my sidebar to visit.

Photos courtesy of WWD and Getty

Saturday Stroll around the Internet

One of the most interesting things I saw on the Internet this morning was a Huffington Post piece on a L'Oreal ad. The question is, "Was L'Oreal up to its usual photo "enhancement" when it prepared this ad featuring the lovely Freida Pinto? They've already airbrushed Julia Roberts' beautiful nose to a blur. Now they may have lightened Pinto's skin. What do you think? You can vote at the Huffington Post or leave a comment here - or both. Was it simply the result of studio lighting? Take a look at her photo below and decide.

In blog land, there were many noteworthy features this week. Here are a few that captured my attention.

Fab over Forty introduced Chanel's newest foundation, Perfection Lumière.
The Non-Blonde told us about her visit to IUNX Perfumes in Paris. Want to truly understand exclusive?
I want my hair to look like Daly Beauty's, so I guess I'll be ordering hair products from Canada.
Product Girl made me want the Bamboo Diffuser from NEST Fragrances.
We don't have a Burberry counter in the DC area, so I'm always glad to see eye shadow shade swatched. This week, I saw three at The Beauty Look Book.
I had a an opportunity to order the NARS silvers for Fashion's Night Out, but passed. I was glad to see them at Café Makeup.
Like your fragrances dark, spicy, and sensual? You should check out Olfactoria's Travels.
Nail polishes come in every shade of nude and brown you can imagine. See two new ones from Dior at Fruity Lashes and Beauty Black Book.

Have fun out there!

Photos courtesy of the Huffington Post, L'Oreal, and Getty

Weekend Stroll around the Internet

Even though our weather was really bad this week, we had beauty blogs to charm us while we hunkered down inside.

The Non-Blonde continued her makeup brush series with concealer brushes - the best of the best.

A new online magazine dedicated to fragrances launched today. Check out The Perfume Magazine.

Daly Beauty featured one of my new favorites, By Kilian Sweet Redemption - orange blossoms to sweeten your life. My own feature was at this link.

Head over to The Beauty Look Book if you want to see all three shades of Les Jeans de Chanel swatched. You can purchase them at chanel.com if your favorite store doesn't have them.

Stila has new eyeliners for fall. You can see them - and swatches - at Gouldylox Reviews.

I really like the shade of Burberry's Lip Mist in Blueberry, shown at Café Makeup. I wish Burberry's lipstick weren't so heavily scented.

Fab over Forty introduced us to hair care that's new to me: No. 4. It looks nice!

London Makeup Girl put up a sneak peek of her new Tom Ford Beauty purchases to whet our appetites.

Beauty Junkies Unite featured Urban Decay's 15-Year Anniversary Eyeshadow Palette, with swatches.

That's all for now. I lost my Internet service twice while I wrote this feature. I want to post it before I lose it again. Hope you have a happy weekend with lovely September weather!

Saturday Stroll around the Internet

Last weekend, I totally missed my roundup stroll, and I tweeted that I'd try to catch up. That never happened - until today. Here are some features that caught my eye recently.

The Non-Blonde was smitten with a Guerlain's KissKiss Gloss. I adore every KissKiss lip color I have - lipstick, gloss - you name it - so I'm not surprised she loved Cherry Fizz. Also, if you haven't been reading Gaia's makeup brush features each week, you can't be serious about makeup!

Fab over Forty has become a Chantecaille Ultra Sun Protection SPF 50 +++ disciple. Find out why you should try it too.

You know I loved the new Tom Ford Beauty Lip Color Collection. See even more colors at The Beauty Look Book. It makes me feel good when someone's splurge was more expensive than mine.

Now, head over to Fruity Lashes to see the Tom Ford color of the season, Violet Fatale.

Product Girl is responsible for putting a visit to Trader Joe's on my weekend to-do list. Find out why. Hint: love body oil as much as I do?

Years ago, when my skin was having a sensitivity meltdown, I turned to Atopalm, a fabulous skin-care brand. Find out what DivaDebbi thought of the Cleansing Wipes.

Recently, I received a few sets of Faux (a new online site) lashes to test, and I've been harassing a young friend to be my model. This week, Café Makeup gave the lashes a test drive. They look great.

It was certainly the perfect week for Gouldylox Reviews to test a dry shampoo. She's been without power since Irene.

Teal is one of my all-time favorite colors - for fashion and beauty. Check out BeautyXposé for the latest in tantalizing teal, which, according to Ken Downing, is a hot color for fall.

Like me, Daly Beauty has a crush on Stila's Yumberry Crush lip stain.

Find out why the NARS Grand Palais is on Beauty Black Book's dance card.

This weekend, I'll be showing you a few candles I received from NEST Fragrances, makers of some of my all-time favorite candles. Eyeliner on a Cat previewed them already. You must read her feature. From a gourmet treat to the ultimate fall scent, NEST has scored again.

Olfactorialist is costing me money! Not too long ago, Part 3 of a rose fragrance series made me pull out my wallet. More to come on that here.

Yesterday, I went to my orthopedic surgeon, who confirmed that the most probable cause of the constant tingling in my right arm is a pinched nerve. I'm now taking a week's dose of cortisone and hope to leap tall buildings and shop with abandon on Fashion's Night Out next Thursday. I need energy! First, though, I plan to spend some time recharging with my family members above.

Photo by Best Things in Beauty

Weekend Roundup - July 30

What a week! It was so hot at times, it was hard to get motivated. We persevered, finding treasures you should get to know and sharing our latest beauty news.

BeautyXposé discovered the latest jewelry trend while vacationing in Miami and brought rose gold pieces home to rave reviews. I love my rose gold jewelry - makeup too, as you know.
The Non-Blonde swatched and reviewed the very gorgeous and wearable Chantecaille Sel Iridescent Eye Shadow. This is a shadow everyone should have.
Afraid to wear sandals for fear of exposing your feet? Gouldylox Reviews shared her at-home foot-smoothing find with Emjoi Micro Pedi.
The Beauty Look Book featured the latest, stunning nude shades from the Fall 2011 Burberry Beauty Collection. I had passed on Midnight Brown. Now I'm regretting that decision.
Fab over Forty had some great beauty tips and product must-have suggestions from Dior National Artist, Jeffrey Sanchez.
Daly Beauty found her perfect mascara in Urban Decay's Cannonball.
Best Things in Beauty (yes, that's me) fell in love with Tom Pecheux's innovative Pure Color Illuminating Powder Gelée from Estée Lauder's Fall 2011 Modern Mercury Collection. I am stunned by the creativity of his last few seasonal collections.
DivaDebbi was able to lighten dark spots with a non-toxic, four-step system called Lumixyl.
Product Girl shared what "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" TV star Taylor Armstrong keeps in her makeup bag. Isn't it always fun to have a peek?
Café Makeup reviewed the newest lipstick formula and the Feather Pink shade from Burberry's Lip Mist collection.
Karla Sugar recounted the legacy of Creed fragrances and featured their three divine new fragrances - go read. If you saw my preview, you'll know I am totally smitten with White Flowers. I'd love to own Original Cologne. I just can't afford to have both! They launch at my Neiman Marcus tomorrow.

Have a hammock in the shade? You might want to use it this weekend!

Weekend Roundup - July 23

It appears to be the perfect weekend to hole up indoors in air-conditioned comfort (or at water's edge) and read blogs! Here's our weekly beauty roundup to entice you.

Café Makeup had high praise for Burberry's new Fresh Glow Luminous Fluid Base, calling it a “best in class” primer.
Best Things in Beauty (yours truly) offered a sneak peek at Chanel's Aquillaries de Chanel Collection. It is expected to arrive in stores the first week in August.
The Beauty Look Book showed us why we need Le Métier de Beauté's True Romance Nail Lacquer, a Nordstrom Anniversary exclusive. Mine finally arrived!
Fab over Forty featured makeup application tips from Mickey Castillo, Le Métier de Beauté's makeup director.
The Non-Blonde fell for the gorgeous, new Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Colours. Want!
Karla Sugar swatched the Fall 2011 Color Collection from NARS. Scroll down to see the items I bought and am wearing now.
Perfect for this weather, Product Girl featured a guide to the obsessive nature of facial misting.
DivaDebbi achieved beauty bliss with the Bliss Fabulous Skin-Reviving Rubberizing Mask.
Gouldylox Reviews is enjoying Dove's Nourishing Oil Care Shampoo, Conditioner, and Treatment products.
BeautyXposé introduced us to the limited-edition eos Summer 2011 Collection of lip balm smooth spheres. Hmm...a lip balm I haven't tried?
Daly Beauty tested and loved Your Best Face's Restore serum.

Stay cool this weekend! I plan to stay inside and read a book.

Weekend Roundup - July 16

Nails, face, hair, and fashion - we had it all last week, with one foot in summer and another in fall. Read on to see what grabbed our attention!

Karla Sugar fell hard for Le Métier de Beauté's Rock 'n' Romance nail polish set (a Nordstrom Anniversary exclusive). It looks gorgeous.
Café Makeup showed us Chanel's Joues Contraste in Rose Tourbillon, another Nordstrom Anniversary special.
The Non-Blonde continued her makeup brush series with Le Métier de Beauté's Blush Brush. I love it too!
Fab over Forty featured Blue Tie, the lovely new Dior Collection for Fall 2011.
Best Things in Beauty (yours truly) had a sneak peek at Giorgio Armani Beauty's unique jacquard palettes for Fall 2011. Check out the new Rouge d'Armani shades in another feature.
Daly Beauty compared a few beautiful bronzers with self-tanners for summer.
The Beauty Look Book reminisced about Chanel's timeless Autumn Les Vernis Nail Colours.
Product Girl showed us Zoya's gorgeous new Smoke & Mirrors Collection for Fall 2011.
DivaDebbi featured a retrospective of Alexander McQueen's "Savage Beauty."
Gouldylox Reviews deconstructed Mila Kunis' amazingly lush hair style.
BeautyXposé showed us how to apply feather extensions, the trend of the moment.

We hope you enjoy this beautiful summer weekend. Do something fun!

Photo courtesy of wtop.com

Weekend Roundup - July 9

Doesn't this summer locale look like a perfect place for a leisurely lunch or afternoon snack? If only I could find this spot! While I'm searching, please take a tour with us through the beauty-verse.

The Non-Blonde featured L'Occitane's newest makeup addition, Pivoine Flora Lip Shine in Brun.
Fab over Forty began her experiment with an at-home laser treatment by PaloVia.
Karla Sugar tackled M·A·C's extensive collection for the Nordstrom Anniversary sale (and fell for a few eye shadow duos in the process).
Product Girl suggested some beautiful monochromatic bronze makeup for summer.
Café Makeup showed the beautiful Byzance de Chanel Topkapi Eyeshadow Palette.
Daly Beauty found summer in a bottle with Aftelier Honey Blossom fragrance, a Fifi Award finalist. I think I need it!
DivaDebbi tested Maybelline's Super Stay 24 lipstick to see whether it really lasts 24 hours.
Gouldylox Reviews put together a video tutorial to teach us how to attach feather extensions, the latest hair craze.
BeautyXposé compiled four hot summer beach looks to help you choose a look that fits.
The Beauty Look Book suggested some bright pink lip shades for summer. Check out her selections and swatches.

Here at Best Things in Beauty, I had the privilege of trying a new fragrance line from the female perfumers at Givaudan. A DOZEN ROSES is a Neiman Marcus exclusive. Will one of these scents match your personality?

See any must-haves?

Weekend Roundup - July 2

A long weekend for many, it's a perfect time to catch up on summer and fall beauty! Maybe while relaxing at the pool? I have a few new beauty magazines to read. I'm looking forward to sitting on the screened porch with Charlie, a drink in one hand and a magazine in another.

Daly Beauty suggested some gorgeous green fragrances - perfect summer scents.
Fab over Forty gave us a sneak peek into the tempting Guerlain Fall 2011 Collection with new Ecrin 4 Couleurs Eyeshadows, Rouge G lipsticks, and more. I know there are three shadow palettes that I must have.
The Non-Blonde shared a sneak peek at Laura Mercier's Canyon Collection for Fall 2011.
Café Makeup recommended Chanel's Eyeshadow Quadra Eyeshadow in Prélude for Fall 2011, a neutral eye shadow lover’s dream. I'm beyond pleased with mine!
Best Things in Beauty flipped over Chanel's Rigard Signé de Chanel Quadra Eye Shadow in Topkapi and Joues Contraste Or from the Byzance Collection. I hate to admit I ordered duplicates.
The Beauty Look Book delved into a Chanel exclusive: the charming Royallieu #58 Rouge Coco Shine - one that will coordinate perfectly with Prélude.
Product Girl spotlighted the gorgeous Jouer Sheer Bronzing Tint SPF 15 and Peony Lip Gloss, a perfect match made in sunshine heaven.
Karla Sugar swatched Bobbi Brown's acclaimed Tortoise Shell Collection for Fall 2011. I adore the pieces I purchased.
Looking to get out of a style rut? Head over to Gouldylox Reviews to see how Kelly did it.
See Kristin's summer favorites for hair, makeup, and fashion at BeautyXposé.
Finally, as I've watched Kate Middleton gracefully take center stage, my thoughts have been with Princess Diana. Read about Diana - then and now - at DivaDebbi.

We hope you enjoy your weekend and hope you find time to kick back and relax! Yesterday was Canada Day. Wills and Kate are touring Canada. Monday is Independence Day in the U.S. There's a royal wedding in Monaco. Oh, and Kate Moss got married too (she's fashion royalty). It's a festive weekend!