Style A-Zoe

I remember hearing about Rachel Zoe so long ago, back when she used to go by her last name of Rosenzweig. I knew of her before she was styling the likes of Jennifer Garner and Salma and Nicole and Mischa and Cameron etc. Rachel has worked herself up into being one of the most in demand fashionistas in Hollywood and everyone who is anyone has been styled by her. And now, you and I can dress like or mini Rachel's thanks to her book, Style A-Zoe, which is co written by Rose Apodaca.

The book is a lovely fashion how-to with darling illustrations, lots of photos and little tips and ideas on how to develop your own style. Rachel shares details about herself including her love of deep tans, bold jewelry and Halston. I appreciate her creativity and sense of fashion, I really love creative, visual people. Rachel also offers tidbits about entertaining, travel, hair and makeup.

I think you have to find a look that works for you and build on it. For example, my friend Stephanie can wear knee socks, a funky vintage dress, high heels, a beanie and a messenger bag and look darling while my kids ask me if I'm trying to look like a hobo if I should wear such an outfit. My other friend Heidi always wears form fitting jeans and tailored clothes that suit her tiny, petite frame. And I go for anything including jeans and vintage necklaces, leopard print shoes and tee-shirts.

If you are style-impaired and need the help of Miss Rachel Zoe or just want a peek at a fun book with some inspiring ideas, check this one out.

Beauty with Bourjois Paris

There is so much to love about Bourjois. First of all, I love saying the name with a silly French accent. Besides that, if you haven't tried these wet/dry eye shadows, you really must. There are some beautiful colors and when used wet with a good brush (like the soft professional ones from Bourjois: smudge, eyeliner, eyeshadow) you can get a nice dark line close to the lashes.

When you use the eyeshadow dry, you get a lighter color that can be built upon to create a glamorous, smoky eye. I tried Gris Delicat- dark frosty gray, Noir Cobalt-a gray midnight blue with a dramatic shimmer and Noir Emeraude, a fancy rich green with shimmer.

You know by now about my devotion to Lip gloss, I love it in every shape and form. I love it alone, over lipstick, while I'm at home all alone or out in a crowd. There is at least two in my purse at any given time and like an addict, I constantly apply it whether its needed or not.

I'm always, always on the lookout for another gloss to add to my arsenal. And here's another one, La Creme. It offers a pleasant, light scent and a creamy consistency. The macadamia nut and sweet almond oils will hydtate your lips and keep them looking shiny.

Running a close second to my favorite products is mascara. It's one of the things in life I simply cannot live without. I was very happy with Volume Glamour Ultra Black. First of all, it's very dark and very rich. I love the glamour of black mascara. This mascara coats the lashes with no clumping while giving lashes a boost. And last, it gets four stars for all around great performance.

I love this little version of Ultra Black, the mini Bourjois. It can clip onto the inside of your purse, onto a key ring or cell phone. The mini is ideal for vacation when you want to pack light. Also, equally as excellent is the mini lipgloss which work just as well as the larger size but is perfect for discreet pocket transport.

Bourjois is so much fun, very girlie and glam. The products are consistently great and they offer a wide range of colors, especially for lips and eyes. Head over to the website here.

Airbrush Refining Eye Cream

Some days, sunglasses are the only option for puffy eyes and dark circles.

Aha! Solution to our problems, Airbrush Refining Eye Cream!

I was reading online as I always do, looking high and low for new beauty products or miracle items that I haven't reviewed. I discovered the Airbrush Refining Eye Cream and am so excited to write about it. It's the fountain of youth in a small jar coming from ...an emu? Yes. I did a little research and found that emu oil has been used for a thousand years to treat everything from shingles to acne to wrinkles. I must find out more about the healing properties of the emu. It looks prehistoric and makes weird thumping noises but perhaps these creatures have the ability to turn back the clock?

The Airbrush Refining Cream is a wonderful product living up to the five star reviews I've been reading.

A super light eye cream with emu oil, collagen, ceramides and elastin to firm and rehydrate dry skin around the eyes, vitamin E to prevent dehydration and free-radical damage, green tea extract to reduce puffiness, aloe for smoothing and panthenol for refining delicate tissue.

This product is very light, can be worn under makeup and keeps the eye area hydrated. It has a pleasant, light scent and so far, I believe it's working. I have the unfortunate beginnings of crows feet and fine lines and I am constantly applying cream. I highly recommend you take a look at the Dremu website and try this miracle in a jar. Emu, who knew?

Hello celebrity Dollfaces!

Yay! Sarah Michelle Geller is back to blonde and looking super fantastic! Makeup, hair, brows, everything is in check. For perfectly groomed and sculpted eyebrows like Sarah's, check out Vanitymark.com.

Jennifer, I was always Team Aniston. Well, I may have been on the other team for brief time (damn that temptress Jolie!) but I'll always come back to your sunkissed good looks and luscious hair. Jennifer Aniston, in this months Bazaar, is looking fabulous! For bronze skin like Jennifer's take a look at ColorScience bronzer with a built in SPF!

Oh Heidi Klum, I can't wait to be reunited with you via Project Runway. You may be gorgeous but I watch the show mostly for Tim Gunn. Heidi is known for many of her assets like a perfect figure, lovely skin, flowing hair and those big teeth. I keep my own teeth white with SuperSmile. Heidi probably has a professional diamond studded tooth whitening tray and a personal assistant to polish each tooth.

Reese Witherspoon looks terrific in her Nina Ricci cocktail dress and Christian Louboutin shoes. The perks of being rich and famous is that you get designer clothes tailor made for you! I wonder if she's wearing makeup from MAC's holiday collection?

Would we recognize Gwen Stefani without her vivid red lips? I keep wanting to dye my hair that bright platinum color but then I realize I would have to touch up my roots even nine days and I say forget it!

Gwen's skin looks like it's been airbrushed. My own little secret for flawless skin is MAC Prep & Prime, then Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer and then I dot on my foundation and gently pat eye cream around my eyes. A spray of Model in a Bottle to set it all and I'm done. I am still searching for that perfect shade of red lipstick.

Cate Blanchett is a little monochromatic but who am I to judge as I sit here in a jogging bra with my hair in a pony tail? Thank goodness the computer doesnt broadcast what I look like most days. I have searched high and low for nice neutral lipstick and have found a near match with NARS Honolulu Honey. A little brown shadow on the eyes and some pink blush (Orgasm perhaps?) and there you go, perfectly polished.

If you want to pump up the volume on this look, may I suggest bold liquid eye liner and a set of false eyelashes? I used to think false lashes were only for Halloween and celebrities but alas, I use them for special occasions and who am I? Certainly not a celebrity. False eyelashes...for mere mortals too. I especially like the inexpensive Ardell lashes at CVS.



photo credits, Just Jared, Ohnotheydidnt, Teddy&Moo'spage

I *heart* Billy B

The world needs more Linda Evangelista!

Billy B's gifted hands have touched the most beautiful faces...

...stunning!


...one of my favorites.

Objects of my desire, Billy's gorgeous brushes.

Makeup artist Billy B's resume's reads like a who's who of Hollywood, New York, the film and video industries. He is an amazing artist who can transform a face by shading, contouring, use of color... you name it, he can do it. I am so impressed by his talent. Looking at his portfolio, I get chills. Not because he has had the opportunity to make up my favorite celebs but because he has this never ending portfolio of glamorous faces that he personally worked on.

Naturally if I got to meet Billy face to face I'd have to ask what Kelly Ripa is like in real life. Does Marcia Cross really have flawless skin? Is Sandra Bullock as nice as she seems? What can you tell me about Jennifer Lopez? How can I reduce the size of my pores? What is the perfect shade of coral-pink lipstick?

Keep your eye out for this Mississippi native because he is soon going to conquer the world of TV with a new show. I just adore meeting creative people, I get so inspired by people like Billy B who is ultra creative and super successful. Definitely visit his website to read more about his most impressive clients, red carpet looks, magazine covers and much more.

Did you ever in a million years dream that you would end up dressing the most beautiful faces in the world?

NO way!! Being from a small town in Ms., definitely NEVER even thought of it.

You have an amazing life. What are you most grateful for?

My health, my family, and my great friends that stick by me and support me!

Who is your all time favorite beauty icon?

Jeez, in terms of women, that’s a hard one.......too many to name one.And I am still meeting them.

Makeup artist: Kevyn Aucoin

If you had a dinner party and could invite anyone dead or alive, who would you invite?

God and all political, religious and world leaders.....To ask god in front of them all, “Is this the way you intended it to be?"

What is one beauty item every women should own?

An eyelash curler. Preferably mine!

Who is your favorite celebrity to work with?

Jeez, that’s another hard one. Different ones for different reasons.I like the ones that are adventurous and fearless when it comes to Fashion, and Beauty.

You have a tv deal in the works, a book which will no doubt becoming a best seller… what else is there? What more do you want to accomplish?

Who knows, I just want to do the best I can with both of them and I would love it if people like them both! I just love what I do and want to continue doing it!Bring it on!!!

The Holidays are coming...

The holidays are coming upon us and you know what that means...time to start thinking about what you are going to get me! Actually, its much better to give than receive, right? I have a very dear friend named Lisa who I simply adore. She loves makeup as much as I do and this Skin Alison Raffaele Kabuki Brush would be perrrrrrfect for her. The brush comes in its own little silk and velvet pouch so no wrapping required.

The brushes from Skin Alison Raffaele are cruelty free which makes me very happy. The short brush ensures an easy application. The brush was developed by a makeup artist so you know practical thought has been factored into the development.

I'll be honest with you- I've never used any of the brushes from this brand. However, Skin Alison Raffaele's foundation is the one I most often reach for, her lipglosses are top notch with an addictive consistency and the concealer is constantly rated in magazines as one of the best as well as one of my favorites Knowing this I feel comfortable recommending the holiday brush/pouch for the makeup lover in your life.

Elegance with Dior

When I think of glamour, there is no other woman who embodies that ideal than Marilyn Monroe. I adore her, love the photos of her, avidly read books about her, want to look like her. But when I think about someone who is the very essence of the word pretty it's Grace Kelly. She was stunningly elegant, a beautiful woman, crisp and lovely in her designer gowns. When I think of Dior, I think of elegance, I think of beautiful women powdering their noses and applying rich color to their lips, their hair swept up in a french twist wearing diamond earrings.

Today I my makeup is by Dior. I started with a touch of the Radiance Booster pen, a highlighting pen with a pale pink tint that brightens the eye area and helps conceal age spots or scars. I've noticed my eye area is looking dark and sallow lately and I need a bit of oomph. This one delivers.

On my cheeks I have a bit of blush, Dior's Strawberry Sorbet. A lovely, easy to blend, non-shiny or sparkly color. I don't want my cheeks to sparkle. I want a flush of color like I've come inside after a nice afternoon of brisk walking in the New England foliage.

Lips are coated with Dior's Lip Maximizer. A pale glossy pink which gives your lips a ton of shine and slightly inflates your lips to look very kissable. This product contains collagen which helps to increase collagen production in lips.

Dior is one of my all time favorite brands. You can learn more about the products here.

Twiggy, the first supermodel who shot to fame in the 60's for her ultra skinny frame, has written a book which will be published by Penguin. Expect to see it in stores this summer.

Those Fab Forties, Fifties and Sixties will feature advice and tips for women. Here are a few little tidbits....

1) You can be just as seductive with your clothes on then off.

2) Scintillate and tease with tights for your legs.

3) Jewelry should be worn sparingly and tastefully.

4) Keep a mid-length hairstyle to accentuate your face.

5) Knitwear is the slimmer’s enemy as it adds bulk.

6) Say no to furs and be PETA’s friend forever.

7) Use warm or neutral colors to bring out the natural glow in your complexion.

8) Apply makeup sparingly.

Neal Decker bags

Neal Decker's bags are super luxurious, big enough to carry the essentials (like a cellphone, makeup bag, notepad, multiple lipglosses, wads of cash, an Amex Black Card, keys etc etc) and are so beautifully made, strangers will stop you on the street and ask, "Where did you get that amazing bag?" I know this because I have two bags and sure enough, people stop me and ask. My mother keeps offering to take a bag off my hands should I feel the need to give one away. Accessories can make an outfit, this is very true.

Neal's bags are super high quality, hand made to order. I have had my baby blues on this particular bag for a long time...check it out here. Wouldn't it be swell with my leopard trench and matching leopard shoes?

For more information or to check out Neals collection of delicious bags (you can choose the style you want plus the color leather or pattern) please go to his site, right here.

Oh and HAPPY BIRTHDAY NEAL!

ENORMOUS hair with Matrix!

Amplify your coif with Matrix

I have to say if 1980's hair came back in style I wouldn't be upset. The bigger the better. The higher the hair, the closer to God and all that. I can't help it- I have hair that begs to be moussed and sprayed and teased and thickened and amplified all at once. My hair, not straight exactly or curly, falls somewhere in the middle like Mel Gibson in Braveheart. At least I've trained my bangs not to shoot up off my forehead like a sheild.

Here's the crack that feeds my big hair addiction, Amplify by Matrix. I tried their *new* Full Body Texturizer and the *new* Thicklift Liquid Volumizer and was very very happy with the results! Hours after I styled my hair (I used them both at once) my coif is still big and full of body.

Thixel Thickening Techonology is the secret in this new improved formula. It boosts the hair and makes it appear thicker providing volume that would make an 80's video vixen proud. You can read all about it here. And for the record, you will NOT be disappointed if you are looking to spend your hard earned money on a product that will give you voluminous hair. Amplify sure does work and a little goes a long way. Check it out!

Perfect your skin with Clarins!

You know Clarins. The brand has been around for a long time, its a classic. I remember passing the Clarins counter at Paramus Park Mall in New Jersey thinking that someday I would be sporting Clarins products like a lovely French woman. Why or how I would morph from Jersey girl to elegant French woman I don't know. But I'm here in California and I finally have my Clarins!

The True Radiance Foundation is a light reflecting oil free product. If you pat this on and apply it sparingly, you will end up with a lovely complexion that glows. Although its oil free, the texture is quite silky. I apply then blot very gently to get the excess off.

After you have apply your True Radiance Foundation, this is a sure fire way to get that completely flawless face. I love this stuff! It has a light, soft kind of consistency. Instant Smooth will fill in fine lines, oversized pores, it will get rid of shine and leave you feeling like your skin has just been magically airbrushed. You can use it alone or over makeup. I like to put the foundation on and then pat this onto my T-zone and lightly on my crows feet.

Here you go, the answer to the question, How can I wake up my dull skin? Use the Double Serum Generation 6 Extra Firming Botanical Intensive Care. Its anti-wrinkle, gives your face firmness and leaves you with a radiance that only a vacation in the south of France might otherwise provide.

Side by side dual plant based formulas work together to make you look years younger and much fresher. It's suggested for women over the age of 40 but since I believe in prevention, I use it now. This product will reduce fine lines, make skin softer, and tone the skin.

I will be totally honest with you here. I've read that serums are not necessary for good skin care. However...I've been using serums and my skin is bright and fresh. I notice when I don't use a serum, my face looks dull. What I usually do is apply the serum first, let it sink in and then use moisturizer. I think- now don't quote me on this- but some serums can boost collagen production. As we age, skin gets thinner and less elastic so trying to preserve or encourage collagen production is a must.

I can't wait to try out more Clarins products because I'm so pleased with what I've tried here. A girl I met recently had the best skin I have ever seen. When I asked what she used on her face, she replied "Clarins!"

Durance Skin Care

The Durance Marine Firming Body Care Cream contains samphire which is known to tone and assist in micro circulation of the body. I wish there was a product I could rub into my skin and within seconds, cellulite would be gone for good!



I rub this on my thighs and back of my legs every night. I believe it's helping...I rub it in circular motions as directed. I know that anything that inspires circulation, getting the blood flowing will help lumps and bumps.




I was so excited to try Durance. I had never heard of this brand before so did a little research and wow, how beautiful is the website? I want to book the first flight over and frolic in the lavender plants then sit beneath an olive tree for hours.



I was so lucky to try a few items from this line. The Soothing Shower Creme is a lightly scented lotion that is gentle to the skin. Enriched with olive oil, it hydrates and makes your skin nice and soft. The scent reminds me of a very subtle Loves Baby Soft.

Ahhh, the Body Dry Oil. This oil isn't slick and greasy, it absorbs nicely and makes my skin smooth and silky. Especially the legs. It has a light scent and melts into the skin after a shower when the skin is slightly damp. I apply it on my hands and feet because this cold southern California weather (you know, it being all of 70*) makes my skin a little bit dry.

Durance is sooooo luxurious. I think a perfect gift would be a lovely basket full of Around the Olive Tree products, who wouldnt want that as a present for the holidays or a birthday? This brand also has home care items, linen care, soaps and more. Click here for more information.

Dr. Jeannette Graf, Stop Aging, Start Living

Dr. Jeannette Graf is a well known dermatologist who is frequently cited in beauty magazines and her book Stop Aging, Start Living is a must read for those of us who care about health and beauty. Dr. Graf is a stunning lady who is not only beautiful but very smart too! She is clearly doing something right.

This is a fantasic book with straightforward advice on how to take care of yourself from the inside out and slow the aging process. She talks a lot about ph levels, acids and alkalines and their impact on your health. Dr. Graf offers nutritional and practical advice that is easy to follow.

I read Stop Aging, Start Living quickly and keep referring back to it. It's a book I will keep for reference and pull it out when I need to fix my diet and modify my eating habits.

If you were going on a trip but could only take six beauty items, what would you pack?

Pre-moistened make-up removal pads
Microdermabrasion scrub (which I would use on my face and body)
Eye cream
Hydrating moisturizer for night with retinol
SPF and anti-oxidant cream for day
Thick, rich body cream



I was on an Extra Virgin Coconut Oil kick for a while because I read there were tons of benefits to this particular oil. What are your thoughts on Coconut Oil as a supplement?

Extra Virgin Coconut Oil has a number of health benefits and has been used for centuries in many countries. Coconut oil contains anti-bacterial lipids which are beneficial for the immune system and medium chain triglycerides which are healthier than long chain triglycerides found in many seeds and vegetable oils.

Apple Cider Vinegar is also supposed to be really beneficial. What is with the vinegar being so healthful?

Organic Unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar has a number of health benefits including a cleansing effect. It is rich in minerals including calcium and potassium, as well as folic acids.



I cant stop drinking coffee although most times its decaf and I drink a lot of water and green tea as well. What are some of the foods/beverages you consume even though they might not be ideal?

Well, I love having coffee in the morning and sometimes in the late afternoon. I also love wine with dinner and it’s hard for me to say no to crème brulee. The key is that I thoroughly enjoy them understanding that I will not permit myself to feel guilt – and I will have an extra scoop or two of alkalinizing powder in my cocktail.



Lets say you are out and about, running errands and are suddenly overcome with terrible hunger. What is a good on the road pick-me-up that won't cause a spike then dip in energy?

Fortunately, more and more places are offering some healthier alternatives. If this ‘dip’ is not unusual for you than it is a good idea to carry healthy snack bars from the health food stores (be careful of the sugar content). If you are at a Starbucks or other type place – get the fruit and yogurt parfaits since the fruit and granola will give natural sugar and fiber while the protein will sustain you and lessen hunger. Other alternatives which can be found in airports, mini-marts, etc include raw unsalted almonds or cashews and raisins, wheat-thins, fruit, string cheese.




What are a few items that we should definitely have *stocked in our pantry/fridge at all times?

There are a number of non-perishable items which are always good to have on hand and stocked. Keep raw nuts and seeds stocked as well as baked potato chips, organic dried fruit including raisins, apricots and apples. Extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar and/or apple cider vinegar. Whole grain pastas, brown rice, spices including cinnamon, cumin, black pepper and sea salt. (*I have all these in my cupboards! I'm healthier than I thought.)




Taking the time to laugh and relax and have fun are key components to the anti-aging plan. What makes you laugh? What is your favorite way to relax?

I love watching Mel Brooks movies and watching episodes of The Simpsons and Family Guy with my kids. They are actually the funniest people I know and I love to joke around with them. Dancing and spinning (I dance on my spin bike) relax me. I smile a lot and just love spending time with my two dogs and two cats.



What do you think of Botox shots? This makes no sense to me- poison injection into the face and it needs to be redone in months anyway.

As with any and all cosmetic procedures – they are strictly a matter of personal preference and one should be absolutely comfortable with the procedure and doctor performing it. I do think that Botox is extremely safe, painless and when performed by a properly trained cosmetic physician can make a huge improvement in helping frown lines as well as other problems. It is expensive and it is up to the patient to decide whether they love their results enough to keep getting it.



Tell me again why eating fruit on an empty stomach is healthier than combining with a meal? Speaking of combining, do you eat your fats/protein together and carbs separately? When is the best time to eat vegetables?

Eating fruit on an empty stomach or prior to a meal is advisable since fruit empties out of the stomach faster than other foods. If fruit is eaten after a meal or after protein and/or fats, it will sit in the stomach until the other foods empty out and ferment in the meantime. Vegetables can be eaten after fruit and/or with protein; they do not travel as quickly as fruit and don’t ferment the way fruit does.



I rather have salty chips or a bagel or bread and butter than ice cream or cookies any day. What is a satisfying way to stave off the carb craving? I know I'm not alone in my carb love!

The best way to stave off the carb craving is to do what you can to keep blood sugar stabilized. This includes eating more frequent small meals or healthy snacks with foods that have a low glycemic index since they do not cause the fluctuations in blood sugar which lead to carb cravings. Also, having an alkalinizing cocktail and taking spirulina in powder form (if you like) or tablets (my personal preference) has a great effect in stabilizing blood sugar and carb cravings.

Any plans to write another book? I really enjoyed this one.

Thanks so much for the kind feedback – that is a very good question. I’m still recovering from this one.

Apothia at Fred Segal

great photo of the famous Fred Segal

photo source

Over the weekend I attended the Apothia + Givaudan fashion fragrance premiere at Fred Segal.

When I first moved to Southern California, I made a point to head over to the famous Fred Segal store on Melrose in Hollywood. I had seen the place mentioned numerous times in magazines and wanted to see where the stars dropped their hefty paychecks. This ivy covered landmark is a hot spot for stars and those in the business or those who want to be in the entertainment/ fashion business.

The event I attended was held in Mauro's Cafe, a chic little place to eat delicious panini sandwiches or mixed green salads while sipping chilled wine after a long day of trying on Marc Jacobs tops or shoes by Giambattista Valli. I've eaten at Mauro's several times and the food is divine. A definite departure from my normal dining experience which features turkey sandwiches and CapriSuns. Ahh, the cuisine of a mother.

I met the lovely Sharon Bolton who created that amazing perfume I cannot stop talking about, Sharon Bolton Luv. Sharon and I have become email buddies and it was so great to meet the person whose creation I wear all the time. Sharon is beautiful and lovely and sweet and I wish you all could meet her in person like I did. I also got a chance to meet Ron Robinson, the man behind the store. For someone so successful he was amazingly down to earth and I was happy to get a chance to chat with him.

During the event, a few different speakers (Lisa Popoli, Gary McNatton, Pierre Negrin) talked about creating fragrances and being inspired by different things from leaves to fashion to colors. As a writer, it was especially interesting to hear how other creative types come up with their products and find inspiration.

I know that scents and memories are closely linked together. For example, when I think of my grandmother's house, I can close my eyes and practically smell pot roast cooking and fresh applesauce. The grandmotherly aromas are something I will forever remember like her Tabu perfume and Pine Sol cleaner. The earthy scent of wet grass after an afternoon thunderstorm in New Jersey puts me in my childhood home. The autumn scent of burning leaves always reminds me of walking home from school.

There was a visual presentation to go along with the speakers and then a chance to roam around Apothia and do a little shopping. Naturally after I finished perusing the modern, clean space of the beauty store, I beelined it to the book department! I found a book about Coco Chanel that I must get my manicured fingers on.

I took a quick stroll down Robertson Blvd and who should I see but Dr. McSteamy and his wife, Rebecca Gayheart. When you see a famous person, its hard not to blurt something out like "Oh my gosh! I know you!" I remember Rebecca from Beverly Hills 90210 and of course I see Eric Dane on television every week. I bit my tongue- they probably have random people approaching them every where they go. Although Miss Rebecca definitely gave off DON'T BOTHER ME vibes.

I had a fabulous lunch with the unbelievably talented Gilmore who runs Pretty on the Outside, my favorite blogger MK from Popbytes and new new friends, Sasha (The Evil Beet) and Candy (Holy Candy). We had a scrumptious lunch at Kate Mantilini's. And then it was back home to reality.

For more on Apothia, click here. It's one stop shopping for all hip, luxury beauty brands! And should your travels ever bring you to Los Angeles, Fred Segal is a must-see.

Wei East Time Delay

Introducing Wei East Time Delay. This anti-inflammatory, antioxidant cream fills in large pores and fine lines to create a smooth appearance. I tried this on completely clean skin and also over my foundation. It worked best for me over the foundation, shrinking the size of my dreaded pores in the T-zone. I dabbed this on and waited a few minutes for it to absorb. I really like the effect of nearly perfect looking skin!

This product contains such ingredients as White Lotus, Lily Root, Licorice Root, Reishi Mushroom, Chinese Angelica Seed and Red Sage Root, sounds like a recipe for good health, doesn't it?

A few other items that grabbed my interest are the Fresh Canvas Primer, Herbal Eye Pads, China Herbal Youth Recaptured Serum. Please head over to the Wei East website to view all the products and learn more about the Chinese herbal wisdom!

Stila ..~..~::* Dazzle and Dream Holiday 2007*::.~..~...

Tale of Enchantment

Stila's holiday confections will thrill and dazzle you!

I woke up feeling kind of mellow and sleepy. But nothing and I mean, nothing puts a spring in my step and a smile on my face like new cosmetics!! Suddenly I'm filled with excitement and vigor! Makeup does that to a girl and you know what I mean.

Stila's Dazzle and Dream Holiday Collection is worthy of your time to check out. My fingers tremble while I open the Gift of Glow bronzing kit. Nestled inside the holiday box you will find Stila's award winning bronzer, my favorite Smudge Pot in black plus an eyeliner brush, a shiny lip Glaze in the shade of Brown Sugar and a trio of soft powdery shadow for the eyes in the colors of gold, brown and sand.

Wait- the glamour doesn't stop there! Stila also has a glorious palettes featuring eye shadows, cheek color and lip color in the most feminine colors of peach (Guinevere) and Pink (Scarlett).

The Cheek Duo features a light pink and a dusty rose, side by side. Eye Shadow trio includesa rich deep brown, soft peach and pearly sand.Your holiday beauty wouldnt be complete without Lip Glaze is Hollyberry (rose) and Peach Cobbler (deliciously ripe peach)!

You might want to turn your attention to the Tale of Enchantment Palettes that come with Agates, stones that are believed to have mystical powers. Each agate is on a chord you may wear around your neck or wrist, and also matches the palettes. Blue, brown and mossy green- check these out here.

Every season, Stila brings out beautiful, well thought out, stylish makeup for those of us who can't get enough of beauty products. You can learn more about the items mentioned here by going to their website.

A few of my favorite things....

Marilyn Monroe

Sharon Bolton Scents "Luv"

I have yet to find a fragrance that garners so many compliments from people. When I wear it, I am asked "What perfume are you wearing?"

This creamy floral- musk scent is perfect for day to day wear. Pretty, not overpowering, soft and long lasting.

LORAC Mocktail

For lip glosses, the color seems to last a long time. These not only smell fantastic but have high shine and a wonderful nonsticky consistency.

MAC Prep N Prime Spf 50

This product prepares skin for makeup by smoothing, absorbing quickly and mattifying foundation a bit, plus the fact it has an SPF in it makes me love it even more. I just ran out of it and must get more!

Prescriptives Anti-Age Eye Cream Spf 25

Cosmo magazine gave this product the Best Eye Cream Award! I like how it absorbs but keeps the delicate skin looking soft.

Any of Yves St Laurent's mascaras

Ive tried two of YSL's mascaras and they are supreme! The color is dark and the consistency is not thick or thin, the mascara wand coats each lash and you end up looking like you are wearing false eyelashes. This is pricey but a tube lasts me a couple of months. Awesome, A+!




I review so many products and change my mind as to what's my favorite all the time. One week, I'm addicted to a cheek stain, the next week I am all about the bronzer. MAC is always a favorite because of their colors and creative collections. Too Faced and Bourjois come out with great products all the time and Tarte and Smashbox are consistent with terrific quality.

The above items are ones that I have been using daily for a long time and love so much. I had to add a picture of Marilyn Monroe because I've been a fan since I was eight years old. In some way, she inspired the glamour I am always aiming for.

Bella Il Fiore's Powder Room

How completely cute is Bella Il Fiore's little boxed palette of cosmetics called Bella's Powder Room? This box of treats includes nine eye shadows, four cheek colors, six lip glosses. The shades are universally flattering. Little drawers pull open to reveal hidden treasures of color! Sit this on your bathroom counter so you have everything located in one spot!

With the holiday season quickly approaching, of course I will be featuring gift ideas. Ideas for loved ones...or yourself. Whenever I go shopping, I can't help it- I buy myself a little something too. And its usually a cosmetic item of some kind!

Bella Il Fiore has a darling girly website. Take a look here. Happy shopping!

New treats from Physicians Formula

Physicians Formula has some new products to brighten your winter! Today is all about products you can find at your local Target or WalMart, items everyone can afford and still look fabulous.



The Plump Potion makes lips look pouty and kissable. Even though I have puffy lips, they aren't as big as Angelina's and I use lip plumping glosses all the time. This product not only makes your lips super shiny and fuller but it hydrates your lips and keeps them moisturized.



To wake up tired skin you can apply a brush full of Mineral Wear Blush. You've heard the hype on mineral cosmetics, acne prone Cameron Diaz loves them because these products are gentle to sensitives kin. Physicians Formula offers three mineral blushes- Rosy Glow which is a pink blush, Warming Glow which is brown/tan (think bronzer) and Blushing Glow, a soft peach.



The Powder Palette is a multi-hued palette with a mosaic of color. Instead of blending your blushes together to get the perfect shade for your face, you can use one of these compacts. Blushing Natural contains various shades of bronze and peach, Blushing Peach is a combination of corals and browns and Blushing Rose is made up of pale and dark to midtone pinks.



For more information and a list of award winning products, click here.

You don't have to spend a fortune....

There are some out- of -this- world, wonderful serums and potions that will smooth wrinkles and give your skin a glow for a hefty sum, but right in your local CVS or Walgreens you can find Olay products. This brand has come a long way since the days of your mother's bottle of Oil of Olay.

I've been intrigued with the Eye Derma Pods since I saw an ad in a magazine. These small "pods" are squeezed on one end and lotion comes out of the sponge on the other end. You lightly dab the lotion around the sensitive eye area. This product regenerates the skin, smooths wrinkles and makes your delicate eye area brighter.

The Olay Regenerist Night Recovery Moisturizing Treatment is a pleasently scented thick night- time cream for your face. I feel like I am feeding my face something good when I apply this product. It definitely hydrates the skin, I apply it to my neck and chest area too.

Regenerist Touch of Sun Lotion with Spf 15 moisturizes while adding a hint of color. If I am home all day, I generously apply this and by time the afternoon rolls around my skin is not only well moisturized but there's a little bit of color to my face.

Olay Regenerist Eye Lifting Serum firms, smooths and lifts the skin around your eyes. I dab this above my eyes since I've noticed my eyelids are kind of droopy. Its too soon to tell if its working but I love the way all the eye products are very gentle and none of them bother my sensitive skin.

The Definity Pore Redefining Scrub features tiny grains to resurface the skin. Don't worry this is a gentle product. I love the scrub from the scent down to the texture and of course, I like the way my skin looks after its been washed with this scrub- clean and clear.

Definity Eye Illuminator looks so cool in the bottle- like a spiral of serum. This lotion instantly brightens the eye area and makes you look more awake and alert. If you want one eye product from Olay, I will have to point you in the direction of the Eye Illuminator.

Olay Regenerist Anti-Aging Lip Treatment promises to ease those fine lines around your lips. See, the thing with skincare is that you need to begin taking care of your skin before the damage is done. Think of it as prevention. While I don't see a lot of fine lines around my mouth, I use this product before going to bed in order to prevent pesky wrinkles from forming.

Regenerist Micro-sculpting Cream is a product to use every day and night. I do see results when I use this on a daily basis. You skin will look smoother, healthier and be all around brighter.

I use the Olay Body Wash with Moisture Ribbons and love how super soft my skin is. Especially after I shave my legs. This product boasts the ability to make your skin more vibrant after only five days of use. You know what feels so good? Freshly shaved legs on cold, clean sheets.

I believe that you can get awesome results with drugstore brands. You don't have to spend $100 for a jar of face cream or blow your savings on a tiny bottle of serum. My mother only buys what's on sale at WalMart and has better skin than some of my friends who are my age- no joke. Her skin is super soft and hydrated. I am diligent about using a SPF 50 on my face along with eye cream and nightly moisturizer.

Any of the products above are outstanding and Olay has much more than I can possibly review at one time. For lots more information, click here.

Bobbi Brown Gel Eyeliner

For the longest time I heard people saying "Bobbi Brown Gel Eyeliner! It's awesome!!" and then I read about the "fabulous Bobbi Brown eyeliner!" It was all Bobbi Brown, Bobbi Brown! "What's the deal?" I thought to myself. Is it really that worthy of all the praise heaped upon it?

And then I got my little pink nailed hands on the Long Wear Gel Eyeliner in Mahogany Ink (deep brown) and Indigo Ink (deep sexy blue). I see the fuss. I get it. The gel eyeliners are truly remarkable.

Used with an angled eyeliner brush, they glide on like silk. The texture of the gel is actually so smooth that you can't believe this stuff has the power to last all day long but it does! The color stays on without flaking or smudging, rubbing off or smearing. I'm a believer, I've see the light and its gel eyeliner by Bobbi Brown.

You can go to the Bobbi Brown site for more information.

oh Mama! Nutritional Bars

These Oh Mama! nutritional bars are for women who are trying to conceive, are pregnant or breastfeeding. I'm not any of those things but I had to try them because I am always looking for a bar I can stick in my purse. I'm like a little kid who needs a steady stream of snacks during the day. I tend to skip lunch often, so if I can find a good snack bar, then I'm all set for a while.
Add some water, green tea and a piece of fruit and there's my meal when I am on the go or too lazy to make a sandwich.

Beth Vincent is the mastermind behind the bars. She was frustrated in the lack of choices for pregnant women so she set about to create her own bars that included essential vitamins and minerals. I wish these were around when I was pregnant!

Oh Mama! bars come in three flavors Chocolate Peanut Butter, Frosted White Raspberry and Frosted White Lemon. All the bars are delicious! They are worthy of your consideration, the white lemon is most tasty and my personal favorite.

I see no harm at in non-pregnant ladies eating these nutrition bars! Why not? Women need vitamins, minerals and nutrients. I'm not an athelete but I end protein bars all the time. Oh Mama! bars are carried at many grocery stores and Motherhood Maternity. You can find out more at the Oh Mama Bar website.

It's MAC time! Matte2 and Mattene

Plush Lash offers one of the biggest, puffiest brushes ever! I for one, love the big brushes and think it helps mascara glide on effortlessly. The bristles are on the short side which actually helps coat the lashes. I tried this mascara in the shade of Brunette, which is brown. I normally use jet black but the brown worked so well.


This mascara contains "pro vitamin B5 conditions the lash, while the vitamin E derivative acts as and antioxidant." For only $11, I think Plush Lash is actually a bargain!

Matte2 eye shadow is super smooth and won't crease throughout the day. Plus the color lasts and lasts. It's another MAC specialty- highly pigmented shadow and vivid shades. You need only a single stroke of the color on your lid for eye popping color. I've been wearing the shade called Newly Minted which is a cool green.

Other colors include Post Haste-a berry pink, Pen N Pink- a lovely base color in the shade of baby pink, Flourishing- a green-gray, Handwritten- dark brown, Copperplate which isn't copper at all, rather a cloudy gray, Fig 1 a medium purple, Poison Pen-mid tone grayish purple. For a complete list of all colors please click here. I'm interested it the vibrant color of Clarity, check it out!

I bring you Mattene lipsticks, a softly textured lipcolor that is matte on the lips with strong staying power. Fear not, this is not the chalky matte lipstick of years ago.

Housed in a thin lipstick applicator, Mattene colors look like a palette from the 1940's. Lots of high glamour, deep rich color and highly dramatic.

The colors include: Poise- pink with yellow undertones, Composure - bronze plum. Flattering - mocha pink, Café Matte - caramel, Orange Dare - yellow orange, Seriously Rich- vivid pinkish red, Immodest - bright magenta, Night Violet - purple grape, 40’s Pink - mid-tone pink, All Grown Up -deep brown, Tango - coral, You Say Tomato - bright red, Classic Dame - deep red, Rapturous- dark berry, Powersuit - yellow pink, Rougette - Wine.

Go to the MAC site for more information on Mattene.

Keri Russell in Lucky Magazine

Keri Russell is one of my favorite actresses in the world. I adore her! She is right up there with Diane Lane for me. Two wonderful actresses who manage to keep their personal life private, who aren't always in the public eye and of course they are both simply stunning.

Of course Keri will always be Felicity to me. I loved the movie Waitress and I'm looking forward to seeing her in the upcoming movie, August Rush. Keri is on the cover of Lucky magazine in November. I love getting my Lucky magazine in the mail each week and I'm going to be anxious to see the feature on Miss Keri.

Dr. Bragi's Marine Enzyme Mask

I received this Marine Enzyme Intensive Treatment Mask and set it aside thinking it would be ideal to use before a special date, a fancy dinner, a romantic evening if you will. Unfortunately, that evening never came so in honor of my big and thrilling night of watching Dancing With the Stars, I used it last night.

The mask boasts the ability to do things like "revitalize and smooth skin" and "hydrate, plump and brighten skin." Dr. Bragi uses something called Penzyme which is an enzyme found in the darkest corners of the Icelandic Sea.

The mask is a damp, non- scented cloth. It has holes for the eyes, nose and mouth so it's quite literally a mask. I expected the kids to question what I was doing with this mummy like thing on my face but they didn't bat an eye. They are used to me with pore strips on my nose and blue gel on my cheeks and thick eye cream around my eyes. No big deal for my face to be completely COVERED with a white cloth mask.

You are supposed to leave this on for about 15 minutes, I think I took it off around ten minutes. It was a grand unveiling as I gently peeled it off. My skin glowed! It was pink and healthy looking. I don't know how or why it works but my face was flawless and I was pleasantly surprised. I think the ideal time to use this is right before a big party or night out on the town when you want to look your very best. Not when you are sitting home watching a botoxed Wayne Newton quick step on a dance floor.

I did a little research on Dr. Bragi and found he also has an Age Management Marine Enzyme gel that I'd love to get my anti-aging obsessed fingers on. You can learn much more on his website.

MAC's Alexander McQueen Collection

on the runway at Alexander McQueen, fall 2007

my new autumn face

What a gorgeous color shadow! I want not only the eye shadow but a shirt, dress and shoes to match. Love it.

I didnt get to test out any samples from MAC from this special collection but I'm going to head over to Macy*s to check out the colors in person. MAC always has the most vibrant and brilliant hues and tints. Here is what MAC says about this new collection:

Backstage at Alexander McQueen Fall ’07, the look was bold
with flashes of unexpected colour. M·A·C artists, under lead artist,
Terry Barber, contrasted the dark yet dynamic forms of
McQueen’s collection with looks in which the eyes played the
diva-warrior role. Setting ultra-pale, lightly pearled lips against
eyes shadowed lid-to-brow in blue and chartreuse, lined in the
classic “cat’s eye” of Egyptian royalty, the look became
uncompromisingly strong and graphic. Intriguing in tone,
bewitching in application, this is a collection that veers
ever so colourfully to the dark side.

The Alexander McQueen collection will be available on October 11.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Last year I found a lump in my breast and that kicked off several months of testing and finally surgery. It was scary and I went through an emotional time wondering if I was going to die or live or have my breasts removed or any other scenerio you can imagine. Luckily, everything turned out to be okay and the abnormal cells were all removed and were not yet cancer. Breast cancer has a very important place in my life as my mother and both grandmothers had cancer.

As you know by now I'm sure, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The following are just some of the companies that will be donating a percentage of sales (of these products) to fighting Breast Cancer.

DuWop Purse Your Lips
DuWop introduces Purse Your Lips: an adorable pink miniature purse with a wrist chain strap filled with DuWop’s Pink Shimmer Lip Venom. A portion of the proceeds from Purse Your Lips will be given to CEW’s Cancer and Careers, an organization that helps provide inspiration and insight to working women living with cancer.
Price: $24, Available at Sephora.

DARPHIN Rose Aromatic Care for BCA
Darphin honors Breast Cancer Awareness Month with their signature Rose Aromatic Care. This aromatic, soothing essence contains rose oil, hazelnut, evening primrose and sweet almond oils. This unique essential oil softens smoothes and helps guard against free radical damage. A very special limited-edition bright pink bottle was created in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Price: $75.00 with a 15% donation throughout the month of October to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, Available at www.darphin.com

philosophy - shower for the cure
shower for the cure is philosophy's pink ribbon shower gel - a creamy all-in-one formula that can be used as a shampoo, shower gel or bubble bath. this long-time philosophy favorite contains a touch of milk proteins and fruit essences to provide a delightful experience for your senses. shower for the cure represents the spirit of every woman and 100% of the philosophy net proceeds from the shower for the cure is donated to the Women's Cancer Research Fund. please note that this product is non-refundable. the memorable scent and poem on the pink ribbon shower gel was inspired by the unforgettable charity event, one of hollywood's most beloved occasions which is held every spring and is chaired by Rita Wilson and Kate Capshaw.
Price: $20, Available at www.philosophy.com.

Hidalgo Breast Cancer Awareness Ring
A Reminder Around Your Finger… Show the support for yourself or the thousands of women that have dealt, endured AND won the fight against breast cancer with a daily reminder. Hidalgo’s breast cancer ring, made from enamel and 18k gold, is something a woman can hold onto and forever embrace.
Price: $725, Available at www.Hidalgojewelry.com

Airplus Plain Spa Therapy
Implus honors Breast Cancer Awareness by featuring Airplus Plain Spa Therapy sock. These cozy, comfy socks are the perfect accessory to slip on after a long day of running around and being busy in painful heels…however, we women can still feel feminine with the pink accent. Best of all? These socks are affiliated with Breast Cancer Awareness, with part of the proceeds benefiting further research.
Price: $4.99, Available at Implus.com

Elemis Time for Awareness
Elemis Britain’s leading skincare and spa brand is once again proud to be supporting The Lavender Trust. Pro-Collagen Lifting Treatment Neck & Bust applied on and around the neck and bust area morning and night will dramatically reduces skin crepiness by 33% and firms skin by 17%, with a 14% increase in elasticity*, helping to visibly minimize the signs of ageing. While you are applying Pro-Collagen Lifting Treatment Neck and Bust, be aware of how your breasts feel, so that you can spot any changes and respond to them.
Price: $89.00 with a 10% donation to The Lavender Trust, Available at Nordstrom.com

Always elegant and lovely, Jo Malone scents

White Jasmine and Mint...doesn't that sound like a refreshing combination? Light jasmine touched with just a hint of fresh mint makes you feel like you are walking through a garden, it really does. Imagine a vibrant green garden made even more resplendent by an afternoon shower...a deep breath fills your senses with the purest fragrance.

The great thing about Jo Malone perfumes is that each one has a brilliant scent that is pure and uncomplicated. With Jasmine and Mint, you get lots of heady Jasmine with a spark of crisp Mint blended with white blossoms. It's a combination I never considered but one that works!

If Jasmine and Mint put you in a garden after the rain, then Vintage Gardenia will transport you to a Jane Austen novel where the heroine takes a stroll and plucks some gardenia to pin in her hair. This is strictly floral and very feminine. "Classic gardenia and tuberose are laced with cardamom, sandalwood, incense and myrrh."

Forget the cloying undertones that some colognes and perfumes seem to possess. Jo Malone is all about completely elegant scents that can be artfully layered to create your own signature blend. I keep reading about Mandarin Lime and Basil layered with Grapefruit, doesn't that sound heavenly? For more Jo Malone brilliance, click here.

SuperSmile Whitening Oral Mouthrinse

Whenever I travel, I notice people's teeth. Generally speaking, they just aren't as white as those in southern California. Maybe we have them bleached daily by the bright sunshine, maybe it's that we have better oral hygeine or maybe everyone is using SuperSmile!

I've been using products from SuperSmile for a long time now and my teeth are consistently white. With all the coffee I drink, my pearly whites are still... white. Im nearly obsessive about my teeth and try hard to brush and floss and rinse and everything else as much as I can. I must be doing something right- the dentist always tells me what fabulous teeth I have.

Now SuperSmile introduces their newest whitening product, SuperSmile Whitening Oral Rinse. This rinse can be used after you brush and floss for an extra oomph of whitening power!

It also rids your mouth of the bacteria which causes bad breath. This stuff is strong, I use it every other day along with my SuperSmile toothpaste and my on the go single dose packets of mouthrinse.

For more information and products, please head over to SuperSmile.com.