Guerlain Muguet 2014

Today, it is dark, cold, windy, and raining. What is keeping up my spirits? The knowledge that the 2014 Guerlain Muguet ($550) will be arriving at my doorstep in April. I have a hobby - perhaps a habit - of buying each year's Muguet release around this time of year. I'm on the waiting list at the Las Vegas Guerlain Boutique to be one of the first to receive the 2014 edition. I can't describe how excited I am. Would it be hyperbole to say it makes working worthwhile?

Each year since 1998 (with a few lapses), Guerlain has introduced a collectable edition of Muguet on the first of May. May Day’s tradition dates back to May 1, 1561 when King Charles IX of France received a lily of the valley as a lucky charm. He decided to offer the flower to the ladies of his court each year. It is now customary to give a lily of the valley on May 1. In truth, Muguet arrives at the Guerlain Boutiques in early April - and it may be sold out by the first of May because the release is limited to 1,872 numbered, 125 ml bottles.

The fragrance is not the same as Jacques Guerlain's original 1908 creation (oh, how I would love to smell that!), but the new Muguet is popular because the lily of the valley fragrance is divine and the bottle changes from year to year, making it collectable. For the first time this year, Guerlain has used its famous bee bottle for Muguet, perhaps as a follow-up to the recent bee bottle anniversary.

The presentation for 2014 includes a handmade white porcelain holder decorated with lily of the valley motifs. It was conceived by Parisian ceramic artist Brigitte de Bazelaire, who is associated with Porcelaines de la Fabrique - the company that has manufactured Limoges china since 1825. With the porcelain container serving as a superior holder for the bee bottle, it's the most exquisite presentation I've seen - and most of them have been first class.

Adorned with a white bow, the white porcelain container requires a double baking at more than 1,000 degrees Centigrade. Nestled inside the idyllic creation, the bee bottle is filled with a pale green precious liquid. After the bottle is empty, the porcelain can be repurposed and serve as a reminder to get on the waiting list for the next year's release. I plan to use mine to hold flowers. It looks much like a small Wedgwood container I have. When not in use, it will go in a display cabinet with antique silver. I think it will look at home there.

Even though the Muguet fragrance smells like an effervescent lily of the valley soliflore, it is a blend. The fragrance opens with a top note of bergamot. The middle notes are lily of the valley, jasmine, rose, and "green notes." The base note is a pure and lighthearted musk - one I can barely smell. I've read it contains a touch of lilac, but have no way to verify that.

This floral masterpiece is the most accomplished lily of the valley blend I have ever worn, and I wear it a lot. Need a pick me up on a day like this? Turn to Muguet. Need to dream of spring when the ground is covered by a foot of snow? Wear Muguet. Greet spring with class? Reach for Muguet. I get compliments every time I wear it.

I call the boutique every few days to see if Muguet has arrived. Jonathan knows I'm a fanatic, so he humors me. Actually, I think he's as excited about its arrival as I am. If you would like to reserve a bottle, give him a call at (702) 732-7008. He will take great care of you. Make sure to ask for Jonathan. He usually works late, so I often call around 7:30 pm ET (remember, there is a time difference). The 2014 Muguet will be available at the Guerlain Boutiques and, I'm told, a limited selection of Guerlain retailers.

Photos courtesy of Guerlain and elle.fr and a nod of thanks to monsieurguerlain.com

The Friday Forum - March 28

It is dark, dreary, and raining. I suppose I should be glad it's raining, not snowing, but I'm having trouble believing the weather forecasters who are proclaiming the grand, late entrance of spring. At least I don't have to shovel rain. The bad news is that I have new Guerlain Rouge Gs, and I won't be able to get a photo of them today.

I found the gorgeous photo above at a site called my.englishclub.com. It's so much nicer than the scene outside my house. Plus, the color reminds me of makeup. What else?

Rouge Bunny Rouge has introduced Diaphanous Impalpable Finishing Powder ($46.24), a completely transparent powder with a silky feel. This completely transparent powder allows you to finish your makeup routine or to underline your natural beauty without makeup.

With the incredibly smooth feeling of vaporous silk, a fine dusting of this invisible loose powder softens unwanted flaws and rewards the complexion with an even skin tone and velvety matte finish.
Evermat reduces the production of oily sebum to keep shine in check, with the aid of silica’s absorbing action. Tetrapeptide Matrixyl 3000 adds an anti-aging and smoothing effect, while Actiwhite works to lighten and brighten. Due to its super-transparency and ability to mattify the skin without drying, all skin tones can benefit from this single, universal shade that can be used to set makeup or be worn alone to brilliant effect.

Suave Professionals has introduced Moroccan Infusion Body Care, products that are infused with authentic argan oil from Morocco, a lightweight miracle oil known to be rich in nutrients and antioxidants. The new products are available in a Body Lotion, a daily moisturizer that absorbs quickly for up to 24 hours of non-greasy hydration, and a Dry Body Oil Spray, a non-greasy formula that absorbs instantly locking in long-lasting moisture. Did someone say dry oil? I'm so there! I must find some immediately. I must go looking for these. You know I'm a Suave girl.

That reminds me. Last weekend, with just about every part of my body hurting, I stopped into a Hair Cuttery and asked for a shampoo and blow dry. I had done that once before this winter when I wanted to be treated. The service was $18+tip, which I thought was very reasonable. This time, I "got" a different stylist, and she was selling from the moment she started washing my hair. She wanted to know what products I use on my hair, and I explained that as a blogger, I continuously test products - from Suave to Rahua. She then proceeded to slam Suave for ingredients that are NOT in Suave products, then she mentioned Wella as being "OK." I imagine the luxurious Rahua is not in her realm of knowledge or experience, since she confused it with Wella. I started to get angry as she implied that the "state" of my hair was due to the products I use. I don't suffer fools gladly, and she started out on a bad foot.

Then she moved on to remarking about the lovely curl in my hair. Are we kidding? My hair, with the exception of one wave in the front, is stick straight. I found out when I got my bill what that was all about. As she prepared my hair for blow-drying, she put four different products in my hair, including a volumizer, which didn't work at all. (I had asked for volume on top). My hair was plastered to my head when I left. I'm not sure what happened to the turned-under ends I had requested. All the while as she blew dry my hair, she sung the praises of the products she used.

At checkout, she said my bill was $26 and suggested I purchase one of the products. I questioned the $26, saying the last time I had paid $18. She said the extra charge was to straighten my hair - a service I did not request. I wasn't sure whether to roar with laughter or be nice and explain that I was expecting an $18 bill because that is what I had paid the month before. I chose the latter. She knocked off the extra third without an argument; I paid; and I left that Hair Cuttery for the last time. What a set-up! Where do they find these people? I thought they had to have a beautician's license to work in hair salons. Have you ever had a similar experience?

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

Update 3/29: Guerlain's 2014 Muguet, in an exquisite bottle, will arrive at the Guerlain Boutique any day. It will sell out. If you are interested, pre-order from Jonathan at (702) 732-7008. When you call him, ask about the long list of Guerlain fragrances that are being discontinued.

Photos courtesy of my.englishclub.com, Rouge Bunny Rouge, and Suave Professionals

Guerlain Terracotta After Sun Cream

Guerlain's Terracotta After Sun Cream ($53) was calling me when I read the press release. Odd, since I don't "do sun." However, I talked to my friends at the Guerlain Boutique in Las Vegas, and they described the scent using terms like divine and intoxicating. I had to do a brain shift and realize it's a body moisturizer. It doesn't matter whether I prefer to tan or stay pale. I could enjoy this cream.

I ordered two tubes - the last two they had - and received them early today. They are relatively large (5.1 fluid ounces), and they impart a fragrance to my skin that is long-lasting and drool-worthy. Because Terracotta After Sun Cream is a limited edition, if you have any interest in this gorgeously scented body moisturizer, order it now. Wait a week or two, and it could be gone - for good.

Because tanned skin is even more beautiful when it is intensely hydrated, Guerlain is offering its first exclusive Terracotta after-sun care, boasting the Tan Booster Complex to enhance and intensify bronzed skin. Formulated with precious ingredients of natural origin and infused with the scent of tiare, Terracotta After Sun completely hydrates, softens, and soothes the skin from the effects of the sun - or anything else that dehydrates your skin. I don't tan, but I love moisture in any form - and I totally adore the tropical scent of tiare, a type of gardenia that grows on Tahiti, the largest Island of French Polynesia in the southern Pacific Ocean.

The key ingredients of Terracotta After Sun Cream...

• An exclusive complex extracted from the carob, a thousand-year-old tree that grows in the Mediterranean region, is said to prolong your tan. Used before, during, and after tanning, it ought to help you hang on to your golden color.
• Cupuacu butter - this Amazonian treasure belongs to the same family as cocoa and is renowned for its exceptional ability to retain water in the skin.
• Camellia oil and jojoba seed oil - this cocktail of oils with antioxidant properties works in perfect synergy to hydrate and protect the skin, while helping it to rebuild its hydrolipid film (the skin's natural protective barrier). 

Even without a day in the sun, I feel luxurious. It was sunny today. It was also cold and windy, and the black ice that greeted us this morning was dangerous. Yesterday's snow still hangs on the plants, making it look pretty outdoors, but treacherous. I am beyond frustrated and fatigued by our extended winter. Imagine my delight, then, when UPS showed up with the most heavenly tropical body cream I've smelled in some time. It gave me a respite from the endless winter we have suffered.

What happens every year with Guerlain's limited-edition Terracotta introductions? They sell out quickly. I have found myself kicking myself in the butt for waiting too long. Indecision has been my ruin. If you have any interest in this gorgeously fragranced cream, do what I did. Stop lingering and order it.

Photo courtesy of Neiman Marcus

Marc Jacobs Beauty Remedy Concealer Pen

I've been dipping my toes into Marc Jacobs Beauty, choosing wisely, I think, and so far I've been very happy with my selections. I really didn't want to get "hooked on" another makeup brand. I already have too many on my must-buy list.

I was intrigued by Remedy Concealer Pen ($39). soI purchased one sight unseen in the lightest shade, 00 Stand Corrected. I am extremely happy with it.

This an all-in-one eraser, brightener, and corrector works as advertised: it remedies the signs of aging, dehydration, and fatigue, while brightening the skin around the eyes. One of Marc’s favorite products, they say, Remedy Concealer Pen is the perfect fix for the sins of a carefree youth (guilty) or just the aftermath of last night (not guilty). Formulated with advanced pigments, powerful antioxidants, and Remedy Complex, a unique blend of hydrating and anti-aging ingredients, this next-generation concealer brightens, hydrates, and soothes the skin while providing the coverage you need for a fresh, bright-eyed finish. The patented palladium applicator cools on contact to reduce puffiness, and one click is all it takes for the perfect amount of product.

Remedy is available in nine shades - from the lightest that I purchased, 00 to the darkest, 7. I guessed and guessed well. The one thing I really like about the applicator is not the metal applicator, but the window that shows me the color and how much product I have left. I really like those user-friendly touches.

I took swatch photos in full sun. I applied Stand Corrected without blending it. That photo is shown directly above. As you can see on my arm, Stand Corrected leans yellow.

After I took unblended swatch photos, I blended the swatch with my finger and took more photos. The blended photo above shows that Stand Corrected almost blends into my skin perfectly. The yellow tone takes any redness away from around my eyes. It's a very nice shade for me.

I use Remedy under my eyes. I'm still enamored with the Edward Bess Illuminating Eyeshadow Base over my eyes. Remedy is easy to apply, covers nicely, and lasts all day. I have found a new favorite.

Have you tried Marc Jacobs Beauty Remedy Concealer Pen? Do you like it as much as I do? You can purchase it at Sephora or select Marc Jacobs boutiques.

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

A New Kate for Bobbi Brown: Kate Upton

The beautiful Kate Upton is the newest face of Bobbi Brown. She is a stunner - a lovely choice, I think - not to speak of sexy too.

Everything starts with confidence: it's the secret that makes a woman most beautiful. That's why we chose Kate Upton - the epitome of stunning confidence and beauty - to be the face of Bobbi Brown this season.

You can find Kate's complete look at this link. I love her natural look, from hair to makeup. She looks like the girl next door, only better.

Read the latest from Bobbi. "OK, you probably feel like you already know Kate. After taking the fashion world by storm in 2011 and gracing the covers of Vogue, GQ, and Sports Illustrated - to name just a few - Kate’s joined the ranks of iconic American beauties and become a household name.

I knew Kate’s public face, too, but when I met her in person, it was quickly clear that Kate is really something special. She exudes confidence, warmth, and authenticity - her skin glows, and you can immediately tell that she’s the sort of person who really loves her life. She’s also a maverick who has carved her own path to success. I was an instant fan.

In a recent Vogue profile, a friend said of Kate, “Two things are extremely attractive: health is beauty, and confidence is beauty.” I couldn’t agree more. I’ve always believed that everything starts with confidence - it’s the quality most central to a woman’s beauty. Kate radiates positive energy and is healthy and comfortable in her own skin. That’s pretty powerful.

I couldn’t be happier to announce our partnership with Kate Upton as the newest face of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics. I think you’ll agree that Kate has a gorgeous face for makeup. Take a peek at how we put her look together and stay tuned for much more."

xo,
Bobbi

Watch here. Then go get your glow on too.

Shiseido Lacquer Gloss

Shiseido's new Lacquer Gloss was inspired by traditional Japanese transparent lacquer. This unique formula has a three-layer structure that refines lip texture, adheres to the lips with vivid color, and coats the lips with all-day moisture. This gloss also features an applicator that fits the lips perfectly, allowing you to draw an even lip line with no streaks.

Available in eight shades, Lacquer Gloss ($25) was in short supply at Sephora when I went to purchase it a few weeks ago. I ended up ordering two from Shiseido's Web site. Advertised as rich, with a deep sheen and vivid clear color reminiscent of the beloved Japanese art form, it called to me. I purchased OR303 (In the Flesh, shown at right below) and PK 304 (Baby Doll, shown at left).

I took my swatch photos in full sun, showing In the Flesh at the top of my arm, with Baby Doll below. The lip lacquers were much more transparent than I had expected - and that delighted me. I had expected more opaque color. I would not describe the color of these two shades as vivid.

As I took photos, In the Flesh started to move toward the equator - a common problem when photographing glosses. My top swatch in the photo below is uneven, but still portrays the color accurately.

As I looked at these two shades when I swatched them (blind purchase), I realized they were extremely similar. Both are warm pinks, with In the Flesh having slightly more coral in its color. It won't be a hard choice to keep one in my bathroom and throw one in my handbag. They are almost interchangeable.

On the lips, the glosses are sheer and shiny. The have a medium "feel," meaning I can feel them on my lips, but I wouldn't call them heavy. They have a very subtle taste/smell that dissipates almost instantly, making it barely worth mentioning. They offer slightly better than average wear time.

As usual, Shiseido has launched a color product worth a look-see. The price is right. I'm going to look at RS 306 Plum Wine in person. It may be my next purchase.

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

Le Métier de Beauté Peau Vierge Anti-Aging Pressed Powder

Le Métier de Beauté's new, breakthrough Peau Vierge Anti-Aging Pressed Powder ($75) has finally arrived at Neiman Marcus counters. I went over to Mazza Gallerie today to pick up mine, Shade 1 shown above. Shade 2 leans yellow and can be worn, I think, by anyone with fair to medium skin. The third shade, 3, is markedly darker in the compact, but so transparent that even Michael (who has light skin) can wear it to add a little subtle color. A Peau Vierge fan might want all three shades for different looks. The compacts are generous in size, with a net weight of 0.40 ounces.

This Peau Vierge powder employs same proprietary delivery technology used in Le Métier de Beauté's skin care and the wonder-product many of you love, Peau Vierge. It's all about delivering the active ingredients in a way that produces a visible anti-aging effect while beautifying your skin. The patented delivery system allows this silky pressed powder - a color product - to also serve as a hydrating, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging treatment.

Enhanced with vitamins and antioxidants to promote long-term healthy and youthful skin, this subtly tinted powder provides the perfect smudge-resistant finish. Blended with unique micronized anti-aging ingredients to avoid clogging pores and protect the skin from environmental stressors, Peau Vierge Pressed Powder is lightweight, applies to the skin seamlessly, and creates an evenly toned, shine-free appearance without altering the natural color of your skin - all the while nourishing and promoting a a healthy and clear complexion. How exactly? Here are the major ingredients.

• TPM has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect on the skin. It reduces redness, irritation, puffiness/swelling on contact. 
• Sodium hyaluronate, the salt of hyaluronic acid - nature's sponge - allows the powder to feel smooth and hydrating (not dusty or dry). Because hyaluronic acid can hold more a thousand times its weight, it will fill the space between the fibers that connect collagen and elastin, reducing dehydration and filling the look of wrinkling.
• Vital ET is a fast-acting bio-functional form of Vitamin E that is used in the treatment of scar tissue, sun damage, and rosacea. Delivering powerful anti-oxidants to skin, Vital E is very effective in preventing surface dryness, sunburn, and skin-irritation.
• Nylon-12, a synthetic alternative to clay, is the secret to invisible makeup. It is a sterile and hypo-allergenic agent that allows powder coverage to expand and contract with our facial movements so that it will not reveal itself in lines or pores. This bit of magic creates the illusion of naturally flawless skin. It is designed to provide a time-release effect for the other key ingredients by absorbing them first and releasing them slowly on the skin over time.

Michael Reinhardt applied the new powder to my skin today. I purposely arrived in the store without any makeup on. He prepped my face with Le Métier de Beauté's Peau Vierge Anti-Aging Complexe Tinted Treatment after applying moisturizer. Then he applied the new powder in Shade 1. I asked him to apply it on only one side of my face so that I could see exactly what effects it had. He used a kabuki brush to apply it and buff it into my skin. Immediately after application, I saw that my skin tone was more even, the natural redness in my skin had been tamped down, and my complexion was matte. Interestingly, after 10 minutes on my face, the matte finish had morphed into a more natural look: not shiny, but not matte either. Beautifully natural.

My skin felt hydrated, and it looked good - as if I had on no makeup. I liked what I saw. Then Michael applied the powder on the other side of my face using a sponge. The lower level of the compact holds a large round sponge. A hint? Amazingly, if you press the powder into your skin using a sponge, the effect will delight you. It's surprisingly effective at evening the skin's tone and removing redness without depositing too much powder. We are not accustomed to applying finishing powder with a sponge, but we proved today that the sponge is included with the powder for a good reason.

Was Peau Vierge Anti-Aging Pressed Powder worth the wait? Yes, definitely. I think I'm going to have to purchase another compact because I'll need one in my bathroom makeup "inventory" and another for my desk at work.

You can find Peau Vierge Anti-Aging Pressed Powder at Neiman Marcus. If you don't have a Neiman Marcus and need help, call Michael Reinhardt or Chae Edwards at (202) 966-9700, extension 2258. They will be happy to help you select a shade.

The photo above shows all three. Shade 1 is shown at lower left; shade 2 is at lower right; shade 3 is at the top.

Photoss by Best Things in Beauty and a friend