Last Saturday with Marcus Monson, Guerlain National/Celebrity Makeup Artist, at Neiman Marcus Tysons Galleria

Saturday morning, I had the privilege of having my makeup perfected by Marcus Monson, National/Celebrity Makeup Artist from Guerlain. He laughed after Karen took this photo of us. He said that with his Texas tan and my fair skin, we looked like 2/3 of an Oreo - or that he appeared to have a different ethnicity. He's hilarious - entertaining as he effortlessly applies anyone's makeup. I know why so many of you adore him and quickly take any opportunity to spend time in his chair.

What products did he use on me? Starting with Météorites Perfecting Pearls Base and Parure de Lumiere Sheer Foundation SPF 25 that one of his helpers applied, Marcus began his work with my eyes. He started with an eye primer, which was a creamy powder base shade with some green in it to take the redness out of my lids. Then he used single eye shadow shades (Ecrin 1 Couleurs) in Hey Nude (just as its name suggests); Brownie & Clyde, a spring 2015 shade that's a nice, light brown (on both lash lines - upper and lower); and Blue's Brothers, a true blue. He used the latter near the lash line to take the allergy-suffering redness out of my eyes.

He used The Eye Pencil in #02, Jackie Brown, to line my eyes at the base of the upper lashes, and he also used a liquid liner. My recorder did not write down the liquid shade, but I suspect it was black. He applied a very thin line that, despite my use of eye scrubs, is still with me, making my lashes look nice and full. To finish off my eyes, he applied Maxilash Volumizing and Curling Waterproof Mascara in Noir. He is the only makeup artist, bar none, who has managed to apply mascara the way I do: no clumps, no weird angles, nothing unnatural, just amplified lashes. He also used Precious Light Illuminator and Concealer in #00 to highlight the areas over and under my eyes, on my nose, and above my lip line.

He noticed that my nose has enlarged pores at its tip (it happens as we age), and he recommended a wonderful Guerlain Tenue de Perfection Long-Lasting Liquid Foundation product for my nose. He used color #01 Beige Pale. It was perfect! I tried to buy it, thought I had, and got home to find that it wasn't in my bag (and I was not charged for it). I'll buy it the next time I go to Neiman Marcus. It added a great finishing touch to my nose, which can lose my makeup over the day to persistent use of Kleenex.

Marcus showed me an amazing use of Guerlain Météorites Pearls in Carousel. He took one of the rich pink pearls and crushed it to make a blush. He applied it to my cheeks. Then he poured the leftover powder back into the tin. It looked fabulous. I've been working too hard to use Carousel as a blush, adding layer after layer of the blended pearls to achieve the right shade of blush. He did it in one crush of one pearl. Genius!

We talked about the new Terracotta shades. Double zero (#00) is definitely new. It is more pink than the original #00. The display is shown below. On the display, you can clearly see that #00 has more pink in it than the original. In fact, the display labels the shades cool and warm to help us select the perfect bronzing color for our complexions.

How can you be sure at the store that you are getting the new shade, not back stock of #00? Ask to see the box. It says right on it "New Shade, Light Blondes."

I took a swatch photo of the new #00 in full sun, and I applied it lightly with a sponge-tipped applicator. I've placed the swatch immediately below.

While it doesn't appear pink on my skin, it's a lot friendlier to my face than the original #00 was. Marcus used it on me, applying it with "3's" on each side of my face: across the temples, on the cheekbones, and down across my jawline. You know the technique by now. Marcus finished my look with a light dusting of Carousel over most of my face. I am sure Carousel was made for me.

For my lips, he chose KissKiss Creamy Shaping Lip Colour in #371, Darling Baby. It was a perfect pink for me. The last time he selected a lip color for me, I looked at the tube and thought the shade was too light for me. Nope; it was gorgeous. This time, I had no doubts. I told Marcus I don't wear lip liner, so he skipped it.

The photo immediately above is Darling Baby. I swatched it on my arm to show you. I applied it directly from the tube and took my swatch photo, which is shown immediately below, in full mid-day sun. I think the pink color is gorgeous - not too blue, not too warm - just perfect for me.

What he showed me, though, on his own face, was a miracle: Abeille Royale Honey Smile Lift, which I purchased after his quick demo. Royale Honey Smile Lift is applied as directed over and under your lips first and then on the lips, immediately plumping them. He said the plumping effect lasts a few hours. It was a miracle how the product made his own lips look immediately more plump. Anyone whose lips have thinned with age should give it a try.

I might have missed something, but my I believe I've touched on the major products he used. I watched him work with the next customer, who told us that ever since he applied her makeup the first time, she has continued to use his colors and techniques and has received countless comments on how great her makeup looks. With permission I took their picture as he applied her beautiful makeup. I even bought the lip gloss he used on her and will tell you about it on another day. It's a fabulous sparkling rose.

While Marcus was applying my makeup, he told me about some fabulous new products. Already at the counter, you can purchase the new Super Tips 2016 Collection, travel or tryout sizes of Midnight Secret, SOS Crème, Super Lips, and Radiance in a Flash. What a fabulous idea! Allow us to try a product in a generous size for about $29.00. There's enough product for your trip abroad or a long island vacation. Or you can purchase one to try one of Guerlain's skin-care marvels without breaking the bank with a full-sized purchase.

This fall, there will be new eye shadow palettes. They are discontinuing the current palettes (if you are attached to one, buy a back-up now) with five-shade palettes. The shades within each palette are intended to be used together - no rogue colors thrown in for inspiration. I can't wait to see them.

I have so much more I could tell you, but this feature is long. I wanted to share enough of my session with Marcus so that you could experience it with me. I want you to see the videos he has made, showing makeup applications from natural to artsy. Just find him on Facebook or Instagram, where they are posted.

I can't wait for Marcus to return next fall. I know Karen Somers will keep me in mind for his Tysons Galleria Neiman Marcus appointment list. She's a sweetie.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

Le Métier de Beauté Gift with Purchase for Neiman Marcus InCircle

I had planned to tell you today about my exciting visit with Marcus Monson at Guerlain. Then I realized that this feature about Le Métier de Beauté's Gift with Purchase (GWP) for Neiman Marcus InCircle, which starts on April 13, was time-sensitive. So, I re-ordered my features; I'll tell you about Marcus tomorrow when I get home from work.

If you spend $350 with Le Métier de Beauté, you will receive a makeup bag filled with lovely goodies.

• Fervor Moisture Matte Lipstick (appears to be full-sized) - mauve or plum
• Outré Lip Crème (full size) - a rich medium pink suited for all skin tones
• Lure Illuminating Face Powder (generous, but a tad smaller than full-sized) - gold
• Cinamatic Mascara (Le Métier de Beauté's new mascara formula) deluxe sample - black
• A surprise skin-care sample (exclusive to Neiman Marcus at Mazza Gallerie)

The bag appears to be leather, but given that it was made in China, it's probably not. As you can see in my photo, it has a zip top to keep all our makeup safely tucked inside. Plus, it's long enough to accommodate our makeup brushes.

I took swatch photos of the contents, with the exception of the surprise skin care, late this afternoon in full sun. I applied the lip products directly from the tubes, used a sponge-tipped applicator to apply the Illuminating Face Powder, and swiped the mascara across my arm. All were applied lightly. I had to take showcase my neighbor's gorgeous redbud tree, so it served as the background.

I started at the top of my arm with Fervor Moisture Matte Lipstick. Isn't the plumy-pink color gorgeous? Any shine you see on my arm was from the direct sunlight. The gloss below is Outré Lip Crème. The combination of the two is beautiful - especially for me, someone who likes shine on my lips. The addition of the Lip Crème makes my lips feel comfortably hydrated.

The Lure Illuminating Face Powder is a pretty, sparkly, subtle gold. It's perfect for a night-out highlighting powder, and it looks great on the face with the lipstick and lip gloss.

Mascara swatches are hard to do on my arm, so don't blame Le Métier de Beauté for my uneven swatch. It's black, but a soft, matte, natural-looking black. It's a perfect go-to for any time of day. I'm anxious to try the new formula.

Most GWPs are stingy - especially for a purchase of $350. You often get samples that are gone after a day's use. Le Métier de Beauté is making sure that you go home with products you can use for months. I suspect the only gift you will run out of is the mascara. It might last a week if used daily.

If you don't have a favorite Neiman Marcus Le Métier de Beauté counter, or if you want to ensure that you get the surprise exclusive to the Mazza Gallerie store, give Michael Reinhardt or Andy Schug a call. Their number is (202) 966-9700, extension 2258. Make sure to ask for one of them. Pre-sale has started, so you can call anytime starting tomorrow. The store closed for the day today at 6:00 pm. Remember that shipping is free.

Michael has also arranged some special events for InCircle, so if you are local, make sure to ask about Hylton Lea's visit next weekend, as well as facials next Sunday. Both will be by appointment. Hylton will be providing customers with his expert touch, 20-minute "facial rescue" at the counter. After your skin is "saved," Michael or Andy will be on hand to give you the finishing makeup touch for your special day or evening. It's wonderful for those of us who can't get by the store on a weekday that you can get a facial on a Sunday.

A master aesthetician, the one Michael personally uses, will provide you with a luxurious hour-long facial. She is in such demand that it has taken a year to get her booked for this event. The facial is complimentary with a purchase of two skin-care items. The facial will be wonderful opportunity to learn about Le Métier de Beauté's fabulous skin care.

Photos by Best Things in Beauty

The Friday Forum - April 8

I continue to be obsessed with our DC eagle family at the National Arboretum. Here is a wonderful photo (copyright American Eagle Foundation) of both The First Lady and Mr. President feeding the eaglets, still called DC2 and DC3. If you want to join the fun watching the live feed, anytime 24 hours/day, just go to this link.

We are supposed to have a hard freeze tonight, so I know Mama Eagle will work hard to cover her babies and move nesting materials over them. She has had a rough few weeks. Our dogwoods are just starting to bloom, and those blossoms could get frosted.

Our average last freeze is April 15, so I guess this winter weather should be expected, but we believed and trusted that groundhog!

I'm seeing Marcus Monson tomorrow, and I hope to get a look at the Terracotta 00 that was reformulated. I hope Neiman Marcus has it. I'll let you know if I see anything interesting - from any line.

Sephora is having its spring sale. If you are a VIB Rouge member, you probably know. While fifteen percent isn't a goldmine, every dollar counts. Bobbi Brown has also been having a Friends & Family sale, with 20% off everything. Bobbi's sale lasts through tomorrow.

Even though it's late - sorry - it's time for our Friday and weekend conversation. The Friday Forum has always been an opportunity to share information. Are you using a fabulous product and want to sing its praises? Tell us about it! Did you find a beauty product disappointing? Tell us why! Do you have questions others might be able to answer? We can help! Want to talk about skin care? I'm game. Just use the comments. We have busy weekends and slow ones on the forum. I hope you are ready to share. See you in the comments.

Photo of eagles copyright of the American Eagle Foundation; other photo by Wikipedia

Coming Attraction: Guerlain Summer 2016 Collection

I have been "sitting on" Guerlain's Summer 2016 Collection press release until I got the go-ahead to share it with you. Now that Guerlain's Summer 2016 Collection is scheduled to ship to stores next week, I can show you what's in store for your summer. Start saving your money!

Feel the Sun…
Encapsulating the essence and ever-lasting presence of the sun, Guerlain Terracotta Summer 2016 celebrates the delight we all feel when we are playing under the summer’s blue sky, laying on a white sand beach, or lounging poolside fixated on the crystal clear water. It’s been more than 30 years since Guerlain created the first-ever bronzer. Fast forward to today...the Terracotta Summer Collection is inspired by the sunny terraces of the French Riviera. This Summer Collection is a dazzling summer line that continues its rick tradition.

TERRACOTTA PAUSE D’ÉTÉ (shown above, $82) is a bronzing powder for the face and décolleté. For good reason, it's the star of the collection. This mesmerizing palette features colors that capture the sun’s intensity to illuminate skin with dazzling radiance. This bronzer and blush rolled into one is available in one universal harmony of pink, coral, and gold, married to add a fresh touch of color to your skin. The emblematic Guerlain double "G" logo is situated in the heart of the compact, surrounded by intertwining gold sailing ropes, is as beautiful to look at as it is to use. The large compact is encased in a magnetic wooden case (like some that preceded it) derived from sustainably managed European forests (FSC-certified), with a wide mirror within. This looks like must-have to me. Who am I fooling? I should just admit that I want the entire collection.

TERRACOTTA L’EAU HÂLÉE ($54) is a cooling bronzing water for the face. It washes off with soap and water and is non-transferable. It is designed to help us achieve a natural-looking, flawless tan for the face. With this "water," a healthy tan look is just a drop away with this silky-smooth, cooling bronzing water. The ultra-comfortable second-skin texture will delight the skin, but it’s the versatility and the impeccable results that will keep her loyal to L’Eau Hâlée. Worn alone or under Terracotta Bronzing Powder, L’Eau Hâlée delivers buildable glow, while simultaneously enhancing and prolonging an existing tan. The tan will intensify with every application. L’Eau Hâlée washes off easily with soap and water, so you don't have to make a commitment to your tan.

Guerlain debuts its iconic (and one of my favorites) lipstick in two new easy-to-wear limited-edition shades for a stunning summer look! Kiss Blossom is a tender, romantic pink shade, and Fancy Kiss is a luminous orange shade that looks warm and wearable by all.

MY TERRACOTTA LIMITED EDITION ($53) is a bronzing powder for a natural and long-lasting tan. Dressed in a bright, reusable, red silicone sleeve, My Terracotta epitomizes summer. The powder delivers a natural sun-kissed glow for a mistake-proof and long-lasting finish with an irresistible fragrance. It's available in one shade, #02.

These Summer Collection products will be available by May 1, 2016 at Bloomingdale's, Dillard’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Sephora, Bergdorf Goodman, Guerlain Boutiques and, of course, Guerlain's Web site.

As an extra-added bonus to the collection, TERRACOTTA TERRA MAGNIFICA ($78.00) will become your after-summer palette. This makeup masterpiece will be infused with varying golden hues set alongside a changing seasonal complexion. It will only take seconds to illuminate your skin and sculpt your face with this treasure.

Housed in a modern case with an unexpected screw cap containing a large mirror inside, there is no chance of sand getting inside this must-have summer and fall essential. This Terracotta after-summer palette will be available June 15th exclusively at Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, and Guerlain Boutiques. If you plan to shop the boutique, I recommend calling the Guerlain Boutique at the Breakers in Florida to reserve yours in advance of the rush.

There you have it - the collection we have all been eagerly awaiting. Which pieces will be on your wish list?

Photos courtesy of Guerlain

Chanel N°5 The Body Oil

My limited-edition Chanel N°5 The Body Oil ($85) arrived, and it's everything I imagined and more. If you order from Chanel's Web site, your new body oil will be presented in a heavy black and white box with Chanel printed prominently on the top. The box alone is a keepsake. Then, your first impression as you remove the box containing the bottle from the shredded, environmentally safe and recyclable white paper will be, "Wow, this bottle is heavy - luxurious!"

The 6.8 fluid ounces of body oil are packaged in a glass bottle with a sprayer under the pop-off black top; hence the weight. N°5 is such an iconic fragrance, Chanel doesn't have to promote it heavily. If you love N°5, you will love this body oil - and I do.

The now and forever fragrance in a body oil spray. This luxurious emollient easily absorbs into the skin, leaving a soft, silky finish.

That's it. Chanel, confident in its iconic fragrance, needs to say no more to tempt those who love N°5 or body oils in general.

The scent, spray for spray, is a little softer than the perfume, and that's a great thing for those of us who must work in an office. I want to smell pretty to those in close proximity, but I certainly do not want to leave a trail of sillage as I roam the aisles. It is extremely hydrating, making my skin feel soft and moisturized - and not oily. Even better, the oil has excellent longevity. I can still smell it on my arm after a full day of work.

N°5 was created by Gabrielle (Coco) Chanel to be the ultimate in femininity. The scent is imbued with jasmine, rose, sandalwood, and vanilla, with a heavy dose of aldehyde. N°5 has cast a spell on millions of people around the world. Inimitably luxurious and infinitely seductive, its legend lives, each year adding to its mystery, depth, and desirability. Although some fragrance snobs might call it old fashioned, I think it's ageless. If it weren't $2100, I would buy a bottle of the perfume for myself. That price is way beyond what I can afford (unless I win the lottery - then it will be high on my list). Actually, it has been written recently that Chanel may be tinkering with the N°5 formula to "modernize" it. If they are, I hope that they leave the original alone and release a flanker, like Eau Première.

If you are interested in the origins of this 90-year-old fragrance, you can read an excellent history of N°5 at this link. If you already know and love N°5, you can order The Body Oil at Chanel's Web site.  They will not charge shipping, and you can select two free samples with an order.

Photo courtesy of Chanel

OCuSOFT Lid Scrub Eyelid Cleanser for Sensitive Eyes - And Everyone Else

This feature is a three-peat. I try to re-post it every couple of years, and since I don't have new photos tonight (basically because of inclement weather (including clouds, wind, and rain), I can present the best eyelid cleanser I've ever used. The best. I feel like this feature is a public service announcement.

As much as I adore my little raccoons outside, I don't want to look like them. That makes eye makeup removers a necessity. Even the best facial cleansers won't always take off that stubborn mascara "run" under my eyes.

One product I use regularly is a bit unusual, and it's very effective: OCuSOFT Lid Scrub Eyelid Cleanser (prices for a box are all over the place - $15.99 at CVS). These individually wrapped, moistened pads are fabulous, not only for removing eye makeup, but also for exfoliating the tender skin around your eyes. They were recommended to me by my opthamologist years ago, and I have used them ever since. I buy mine at CVS or Costco. I highly recommend these pads. You won't find a more effective eye makeup remover. Plus, they do double duty for anyone with sensitive eyes, blepharatis, dry skin, or any other condition that makes your eyelids peel.

Imagine wearing contacts and having microscopic pieces of skin tissue falling into them during the day. Enough said? Blepharitis is an eye condition characterized by chronic inflammation of the eyelid, and more of us have it than you would imagine. OCuSOFT Lid Scrub Pads continuously and gently exfolate the eyelid to prevent inflammation and its concomitant issues.

These pads are recommended by doctors, including mine, for eyelid cleansing to remove oil, debris, and desquamated skin (flakes) that may lead to eye irritation. They remove oil and debris associated with dry eyes and promote comfort for contact lens wearers. Plus, they remove every last vestige of eye makeup.

I never have raccoon eyes after I use the pads, and all traces of mascara and liner are history. One pad suffices for both eyes. Because they are individually wrapped, they are extremely convenient/ideal for travel. Formulated without alcohol, fragrance, or dye, they can be used by everyone.

I cannot recommend OCuSOFT Lid Scrub pads highly enough. As I mentioned, I've written about them before (I should buy stock), and when I mention them in features, someone always asks about them. They are easy to find, inexpensive, and the best makeup remover you'll ever find. Not only that, they are good for you.

Don't buy the ones you have to mix. It's faster and much more convenient to purchase the pre-moistened pads. Also, the "plus" ones are a bit harsh. Stick with the ones that come in the dark blue box.

Check out the OCuSOFT Web site to learn more. OCuSOFT Lid Scrub Eyelid Cleanser is one of my beauty secrets. I think I've converted more than a few of you.

Photo courtesy of OCuSOFT

L’Oréal Paris Advanced Haircare Extraordinary Oil Shampoo and Conditioner

I have found a drugstore oil shampoo and conditioner set that is just as nice as my "luxury brands": L’Oréal Paris Advanced Haircare Extraordinary Oil Shampoo and Conditioner (from $4 to $8 each, depending on store). I like oil products for my skin, so when I saw the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Haircare products at the Giant grocery store, I decided to try them. They were on sale, so I had little to lose. To skip to the end, I love the shampoo and conditioner, and I continue to purchase them. They have become my go-to hair products.

Here is what L’Oréal has to say about them...
Dry, lifeless hair? Transform it. Renourish and rejuvenate hair with the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Haircare Extraordinary Oil system. Strands go from dry and lifeless to soft and lustrous in just one wash. Experience the power of L’Oréal Paris Extraordinary Oil with Oil Complex - coconut, argan, chamomile, amla, soja, and sunflower oils. Deep nourishment without the weight for incredibly lustrous, touchably soft hair.

Truth!  The shampoo thoroughly cleanses my hair of mousse and hairspray with one wash. That saves me time in the shower in the morning. The conditioner detangles my hair quickly and leaves it soft, moisturized, and bouncy. Unlike many conditioners, I don't have to use more conditioner than shampoo, so I run out of both around the same time. What more could I want? I think it even reduces frizz from humidity and split ends - and extra added benefit.

L’Oréal keeps changing the packaging, which confused me at first. The last set I purchased looked like the photos here. The container sits flat on it's snap-on top. I have to ensure that it snaps shut or it may leak a little since the fluid flows to the top. I've learned. I see online that L’Oréal may now be calling it 6 Oil Nourish Shampoo and Conditioner. It's the same product.

The shampoo and conditioner were designed for use on all hair types. They are safe for color-treated hair. You can see the ingredients here. There is a problem with the list, though. The ingredients list on my containers does not include propylene glycol. I tend to trust the container rather than the Web site. The light fragrance is enjoyable while I am using the products in the shower, but I don't smell it after I've styled my hair. I've left a set at my hair stylist's salon so that they can use it on me when I visit. I prefer these beauties to their house brand. I've invited my stylist to try it, and she loves it too.

You can find L’Oréal Paris Advanced Haircare Extraordinary Oil Shampoo and Conditioner at mass market drugstores and grocery stores. Watch for sales; they happen often. There are plenty of online sources too, such as Target. I think you'll be pleased with these frugal treasures.

Photos courtesy of L’Oréal Paris