Wrinkle-Free: Madewell Boyjean in Linen Wash
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A classic laid-back style for summer is white linen pants. Perfect for outdoor BBQ’s and days at the beach, linen keeps you cool but it can also turn into a wrinkled-mess.
A great alternative to the usual drawstring linen pant is Madewell’s Boyjean in Linen Wash. These pants are thin, lightweight and comfortable. They will keep you cool all summer and are a great transitional staple for work and play.
Stay crease and wrinkle-free with the linen-alternative.
Rockstar Bronzer: Kat Von D Everlasting Bronzer
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Kat Von D’s Everlasting Bronzer promises up to 24-hours of color and the rich pigment offers buildable, custom coverage for every skintone. This I had to try.
Available in two shades:
1. Shady Business 1: pearlized brown with gold shimmer
2. Shady Business 2: pearlized dark brown with gold shimmer
The fade-proof formula is smooth, velvety and blendable. It glides onto the cheeks effortlessly and provides a radiant glow.
The color is the real ‘hero‘ of this product. It leans more red-toned than orange, avoiding “oompaloompa face.” It has tiny gold sparkles that create a subtle glow, boosting the complexion and mimicking the rays of the sun.
Boasting 24-hour wear, the formula is absolutely long-wearing. It lasts an entire work day and remains true-to-color without oxidizing.
These bronzers are very comparable to NARS Laguna and NARS Casino. However, I find the Kat Von D version to add more warmth to the skin while NARS bronzers can look “muddy.”
Brush on sun-kissed radiance with Kat Von D Everlasting Bronzer.
Crowning Collaboration: Isabel Marant for H&M
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H&M will team up with Isabel Marant for its latest design collaboration. The collection of must-have clothing and accessories inspired by Marant’s signature laid-back Parisian style will be available in 250 stores worldwide as well as online November 14 - and there will be menswear too, which will mark Marant’s first foray into catering for men.
“I am flattered by this collaboration: H&M works with the best designers and this invitation is an exciting honour,” Marant said this morning. “I aim to create something real, that women want to wear in their everyday lives, with a certain carelessness, which I think is very Parisian: you dress up, but do not pay too much attention and still look sexy. The collection is infused with this kind of easiness and attitude. Everything can be mixed following one’s own instincts: my take on fashion is all about personality.”
Let’s just hope it doesn’t sell out before we can get our hands on it…
How To: Copper Eyes
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Copper eyeshadow can make a bold statement and intensify the natural color of your eyes. However, if not applied correctly can also make eyes look tired, bloodshot and/or red.
To avoid looking like Marla Singer in Fight Club, choose an accent color to blend with the copper. Whether your copper is shimmery or matte, a deep matte tone blendeded with the metallic shade will look more natural. Because the copper is so bright, it should be used as your primary color rather than pairing it with another bright color.
Needed:
- 2 Eyeshadow Brushes
- Copper Eyeshadow - Favorite: Laura Mercier Illuminating Eye Colour in Fire Glow
- Deep Natural Matte Eyeshadow – Favorite: Urban Decay Eyeshadow in Naked or Buck
How To:
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Press eyeshadow brush into the Copper Eyeshadow. Tap the brush to remove any excess powder. Swipe the brush across the eyelid and blend up into the crease.
- Blend eyeshadow until you are satisfied with the color and shape.
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Using the Deep Natural Matte Eyeshadow, blend into the crease and outer “V” of the eye. Making this “V” area a little darker will make the eyes appear larger.
- Run a clean blending brush over your eyelid, using a quick circular motion. This will get rid of any harsh lines.
- Apply the Deep Natural Matte Eyeshadow under the eye. If you have small eyes, sweep eyeshadow from the middle of the eye to outer edge. For more drama, blend a tiny bit of the Copper Eyeshadow into the matte color. Do not use a lot or eyes will look red and “angry.”
- Line eyes and apply lots of mascara.
Modify this look depending on your eyes shape and color.
Fantastic Flat: Splendid Newberry Flat
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Soft, supple suede and cushiony sole, makes Splendid’s Newberry Flat one of my new favorite finds. Available in a multitude of bright colors and everyday neutrals, it is hard to choose just one.
My first purchase, Sand (pictured), pairs well with everything and works well with my work wardrobe. However, I am already contemplating a next purchase in Punch (bright red) and, of course, Black.
This simple ballet flat looks delicate and girly. The suede is so soft I was afraid they would loose structure quickly. However, I am pleasantly surprised that they are holding up so well after very long work weeks.
Finding a simple, comfortable flat is not as easy as it looks. These fulfill all your basic everyday needs, wrapped up in a simple and elegant design. Try them – let me know what you think.
Summer Must-Have: Laura Mercier Matte Radiance Baked Powder
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Summer is all about bronzed, glowing skin. The only product needed to achieve this is Laura Mercier’s Matte Radiance Baked Powder. Available in four bronzing colors and one highlight, one is able to mimic the sun’s rays without the damage.
- Highlight 01 – Golden nude
- Bronze 01 – Fair to light skin tone
- Bronze 02 – Light to medium skin tone
- Bronze 03 – Medium skin tone
- Bronze 04 – Tan to deep skin tone
Titled “Matte Radiance Baked Powder,” this product is far from the stark matte bronzers of the past. Laura Mercier’s Matte Radiance Baked Powder warms-up the skin revealing a healthy glow. No glitter or shimmer but a beautiful glowing sheen.
The ultra-smooth formula provides natural color with absolutley no orange tinge. The modern, multidimensional matte finish reveals a hint of soft luminosity and the sheer, buildable coverage lets you customize your glow.
Easy to apply, these bronzers leave skin looking naturally radiant. Coming from a bronzing addict – this is the most natural finish and color-range I have experienced. It instantly warms up the face and creates healthy looking skin. Laura Mercier’s Matte Radiance Baked Powder is my in my top 10 Summer Must-Haves for 2013.
Simply Amazing: Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream
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Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream is a lightweight, moisturizing formula that creates soft styles for a natural feel. It conditions, hydrates, fights frizz, adds definition, creates soft hold, tames fly-aways and refreshes day-old styles… Simply Amazing.
Ideal for overprocessed and dry hair, Hydrating Styling Cream can be used on both wet and dry hair. As thick and nourishing as it feels – it does not weigh the hair down, nor does it feel sticky or greasy. Hair is left incrediably soft and managable and 100% hydrated.
Like all Moroccanoil products, Hydrating Styling Cream smells incrediable and is perfect for the hot summer months. Using antioxidant-loaded Argan oil, Hydrating Styling Cream will protect hair from humidity and heat. Preserve summer hair with Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream.
5 Favorites: Maxi Dress
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The best item to have in your closet for a “what to wear” moment – the maxi dress. This versatile item is an all-in-one ensemble that works for almost any occasion. From bright colors and bold prints to strong slits and cinched waists – there is a maxi out there for everyone. Here are a few of my favorite finds:
Monrow ~ T Back Racer V Tank Dress: $76.00
Rebecca Taylor ~ Paisley Gown: $395.00
BCBGeneration ~ Slit Maxi Dress: $101.99
Raquel Allegra ~ Tie-Dye Silk Maxi: $680.00
Splendid ~ Always Hi Lo Maxi Dress: $118.00
RX Summer Skin Secrets: Richie L. Lin MD
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We all need to adapt our skin care routines during the hot, humid summers. Board certified dermatologist, Dr. Richie Lin is here to help. Here are a some of his top tips to maintain and protect summer skin:
1. We all sweat more during a sticky July day. To keep your face looking fresh, your summer cleanser and moisturizer should be a touch more drying to control oil production. Look for cleansers that contain drying and acne fighting ingredients such as salicylic acid, and moisturizers that are lightweight. For acne prone individuals, oil control for the rest of your skin is also important so be sure to use a body cleanser with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
2. No sunscreen is truly “waterproof” or “sweatproof,” since all sunblocks will dissolve in water eventually. In fact, these labels will soon be a thing of the past since the FDA has ruled that only the term “water resistant,” with a time limit, can be used on a label. If you are swimming, exercising, or even just sweating from a day of walking around, you should reapply your sunscreen every 1-2 hours for continued protection.
3. Sunscreens with an SPF below 15 do not protect against skin cancer or premature aging. The FDA will now require these products to state that they only protect against sunburns, but not against the carcinogenic effects of the sun. Make sure you pick a sunscreen with enough SPF.
4. Swim shirts and brimmed hats with UV protection are very popular right now. You see every toddler and young child at the pool or beach wearing them. If adults are mindful enough to protect their children from large doses of sun exposure, shouldn’t the same rules apply to big people? Protecting yourself with a swim coverup that contains SPF and a wide brimmed hat means you will be stylish and safe at the beach!
5. During the summertime, sun spots can darken with sun exposure. Being vigilant about sun protection and using a prescription strength lightening cream containing hydroquinone at night can help keep those sunspots light and your skin tone even.
About Richie L. Lin MD
Richie L. Lin, MD of Dermatology Consultants of Short Hills, is a board certified dermatologist with strong roots in northern New Jersey. Raised in Millburn, and a graduate of Millburn Senior High School, Dr. Lin went on to graduate magna cum laude from Vanderbilt University with a BA in music literature. He then returned to New Jersey and earned his doctorate of medicine from UMDNJ – New Jersey Medical School, during which time he was elected to the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society. Dr. Lin trained in internal medicine in San Francisco before completing his dermatology residency at Montefiore Medical Center in New York City. During residency, Dr. Lin was chosen to serve as the Chief Resident in the Division of Dermatology. After residency, he joined the faculty at the New York University School of Medicine.Dr. Lin has now returned to Short Hills, New Jersey to practice, while teaching at Columbia University.Dr. Lin has published extensively in peer-reviewed dermatology journals. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. He specializes in skin cancer detection and removal, including Mohs surgery, but also practices general dermatology. Dr. Lin also performs non-invasive skin rejuvenation procedures, including Botox, Juvederm, Restylane, Radiesse, laser hair removal, in addition to a wide array of skin laser treatments.
Fast Favorite: Dermalogica Ultra Sensitive Tint SPF30
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Quickly get the benefits of a broad spectrum sunscreen and tinted moisturizer with Dermalogica Ultra Sensitive Tint SPF30. This amazing formula provides just-the-right protection while creating the perfect summer glow.
Targeted to sensitive skin types, this Broad Spectrum sunscreen is gentle and nourishing. Formulated with Dermalogica’s exclusive UltraCalming Complex, that contains oat and botanical actives to help minimize discomfort, burning and itching. Natural mineral sunscreens help shield against photodamage and UV exposure and leave no heavy feeling and/or white cast on the face. The sheer formula provides optimal hydration and helps protect and reinforce barrier lipids, which are often compromised in sensitized skin conditions.
Benefits:
- Lightly-tinted sunscreen in a rich base to protect against moisture loss.
- Helps reduce redness associated with skin irritation.
- Blends easily on face.
Dermalogica Ultra Sensitive Tint SPF30 is the ultimate fast fix in the morning. Perfect for summertime skin, Ultra Sensitive Tint leaves the skin glowing and fresh.
Currently Coveting: Céline Trio Crossbody Bag
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Currently Coveting:
Céline Trio Crossbody Bag
No explanation needed…
New Natural: Crystal Deodorant
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I must admit I was a bit skeptical to try a “natural” form of deodorant. I am very loyal to my chemically-enhanced version and admit to a slight phobia of body odor. However, after testing Crystal Body Deodorant, my feelings have changed.
Crystal is the world’s leading natural mineral salt deodorant. Made from natural mineral salts, these deodorants form an invisible layer on the skin that creates an unfriendly environment for bacteria. While most deodorants mask odor with heavy scents or fragrances, Crystal deodorants neutralize the bacteria that causes the odor.
I have been using these deodorants for a couple weeks and am shocked by their effectivness. My first thought was to use the Crystal deodorants at night and use my regular deodorant when I am more active. However, I found it worked just as well as my regular deodorant.
The original Crystal Body Deodorant is unscented and available in a stick, roll-on, spray, original Rock, and Towelette. Now available in a variety of scents like Lavender & White Tea and Pomegranate that smell lovely and clean, there is no reason not to try it out.
Tell me what you think!
Drugstore Find: Maybelline Color Tattoo Metal in Barely Branded
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Maybelline’s Color Tatoos are a fantastic drugstore find. These cream eyeshadows last just as long as any other more expensive version and are just as vibrant and pigmented. Constantly creating new colors and finishes, my current favorite is Maybelline Color Tattoo Metal in Barely Branded.
Barely Branded is a warm champagne tone with a metallic/frosted finish. A great dupe/alternative to MAC Bare Study Paint Pot (one of my favorites). A very versatile shade, Barely Branded can be warn on it’s own or as a base to brighten and make shadow stay-put. It has a wonderful creamy consistency that is great for quick and easy application and does not crease or fade, hour after hour.
For a great basic cream shadow that is easily accesible and inexpensive try Maybelline Color Tattoo Metal in Barely Branded.
Brow Builder: It Cosmetics Brow Power
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IT Cosmetics Brow Power Universal Eyebrow Pencil is no ordinary pencil. This ultra-fine, high-definition, long-wearing, automatic eyebrow pencil adjusts to your specific brow color and supports healthy hair growth.
The super-skinny tip draws the tiniest of lines, allowing you to easily mimic the look of natural brow hairs. The spooly-end brushes and polishes the brows, perfecting the look. How can one pencil be universally flattering? By using softer strokes to match lighter hair, including blonde and silver and pressing a bit harder for darker hair, including medium brown to black.
The crayon-like texture goes on very lightly, so you can layer for the particular look you are going for – whether it’s natural or a bold “statement” brow. The formula is smudge-proof, waterproof and filled with good-for-you ingredients like panthenol, Vitamins A, C, and E. It also contains GrowLuxe technology, which is formulated with Saw Palmetto, Nettle Flower Extract, Horsetail Flower Extract, Green Tea Extract and Grapeseed Extract – promoting healthy hair growth. The American Cancer Society approved Brow Power as being safe for ultra-sensitive skin; this plus the GrowLuxe formula makes this pencil perfect for those who have lost their brows due to chemotherapy. In fact, for every Brow Power pencil sold, IT Cosmetics donates one pencil to the Look Good, Feel Better Program which helps women with cancer regain their confidence in their physical appearance.
Amazing? Yes.
Hair Trend: Crimp
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Crimped hair is making an unexpected comeback this Spring/Summer. Often associated with the 80′s, the hairstyle has been spotted on both the runway and red-carpet.
Today’s crimped hairstyle is more about texture than style. Different widths and lengths are used to create volume and effect. The crimping technique offers massive volume that lasts.
For special occasions/Prom: Mix crimped hair with flat-ironed hair for a fresh hairstyle. Crimp hair and style into a top knot or bohemian updo, for a modern take on a classic.
Paul Mitchell wants to make sure you are prom-ready with Paul Mitchell Prom Survival Kits and the Limited Edition Express Ion Crimp. Find participating salons HERE.
The Classics: J Brand Black Skinny
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Like fine wine, the J Brand Black Skinny only gets better with age. Known for both comfort and style, J Brand (btw: ‘J’ stands for Jeff – Jeff Rudes owner) creates great basics that last. The J Brand Black Skinny is the only black skinny I may ever buy. No fading and no stretching – this classic should be a staple in every woman’s closet.
Bored of black denim? Reinvent your day-to-day classics. If you have exhausted all combinations in your closet – mix-it-up with a great shoe or accessory. Try a colorful or embellished flat or rugged ankle boot. However, if you are not six feet tall, ankle boots can be tricky. Paired with skinny jeans they can make you look stumpy. The key to wearing ankle boots with skinny jeans is to create a continuous line. This means wearing dark rinse blue jeans with black ankle boots, or black jeans with a dark gray pair of ankle boots. The colors do not have to match exactly, but should be close enough that there’s no significant break when one ends and the other begins.
Keep it classic and style your J Brand Skinnies with sophisticated black and white pieces. Always on trend and deceptively simple, the black and white combination looks polished and fresh.
When it comes to the classics, investing in great pieces makes a world of difference. These J Brand Skinnies will outlast the next three pairs of less expensive versions bought. Save yourself the time and headache and buy the best.
Holy Grail: FAIRYDROPS Scandal Queen Mascara
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Inspired by the desire to enhance her eyes both on and off camera, Japanese TV personality Aya Yasuda created FAIRYDROPS - a Japanese makeup line that features amazing mascaras.
Japan’s best-selling mascara was brought stateside to sample. The version, FAIRYDROPS Scandal Queen Mascara, is a do-it-all mascara that creates incredibly lush, doll-like lashes and my new HG.
The Brush: Unique in shape, the patented 3-sphere brush is placed on a curved wand that kisses the lash line. The brush catches every single, tiny lash creating perfect definition and length.
The Formula: The dense, fibrous formula does not clump or run. (which is interesting because there are a million tiny fibers). Formulated with a cocktail of moisturizing ingredients such as squalane, jojoba seed oil, panthenol, hydrolyzed collagen, and sodium hyaluronate, every lash is coated and accentuated. Available in one shade – black – the formula is water-resistant and wears all-day without a smudge. Then can be removed effortlessly with a little warm water. Magic!
The Result: The best and most creative mascara I have used. Replaces my previous holy grail, HERE. The fibrous wand does all the work for you. In just one coat – lashes are feathered perfectly, lengthened, defined and exactly how it is described – “doll-like.”
The Problem: This mascara has been discontinued and is no longer sold at Sephora, online. There are still a few at the stores but in limited supply, so get yours before it’s too late. (Also check your local Asian markets, Amazon and EBay)
Perfect Polish: Watermelon by Essie
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I just bought my fourth bottle of Watermelon by Essie. Never in my life have I finished a bottle of nail polish – now four! Watermelon is the polish I always come back to, year after year. Best for warmer weather, Watermelon is cheerful, youthful and flattering on the skin. It can appear many different colors – bright pink, red and almost neon, depending on the light.
Watermelon applies opaque in one coat. I always use two coats for both manicure and pedicure. I find Essie nail polishes super easy to apply. The thin brush promotes control and ease.
If you are looking for a great spring/summer shade that is refreshing and juicy, try Watermelon by Essie.
Five Favorites: Peasant Top
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Peasant tops are are great transitioning piece from cold to warm weather. Available in basic neutrals or super bright colors – these tops are both relaxed and casual.
Slip into a breezy peasant top and pair with your favorite denim, white and/or colored. Equally cute with shorts and skirts, marry the look with some ankle boots and a floppy hat. Peasant tops also make a great beach coverup.
Designers continue to offer peasants tops in many styles but the one constant is their flowy and breezy nature. Appealing to all body types, this top will work hard in your closet all-year-long.
Here are five favorites:
Joie ~ Meliana Embroidered Gauze Blouse: $198.00
Urban Outfitters ~ Ecote Split Back Embroidered Tank Top: $49.00
Anthropologie ~ Embroidered Aureolin Tunic: $98.00
Urban Outfitters ~ Embroidered Bazaar Cami: $54.00
Free People ~ Rolling Stone Woven Top: $118.00
Fresh-Faced: YSL Creme de Blush in Baby Doll
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The Yves Saint Laurent Arty Stone Collection for Spring 2013 is a gorgeous collection filled with bold spring colors. To top it off, the collection is all worn by Ginta Lapina, the label’s ambassador for this season.
Taking its inspiration from warm, precious jewel tone pigments, Lloyd Simmonds, Creative Director Make-up Yves Saint Laurent Beauté, describes as:
“Pink quartz, amethyst, pyrite, malachite, azurite, jade, each possesses a hypnotic beauty. When you hold them in your hands, these precious stones diffuse energy and light, like galaxies. Their crystalline purity and voluptuous opalescence were the departure point for the creation of the Spring Look 2013 for Yves Saint Laurent.”
This collection features three new Creme de Blush: 7 Rose, 8 Brown, 9 Pink (Baby Doll Pink). These blushes are very unique. They apply and blend like a cream but set to a powder finish. However, the finish is luminous, radiant and healthy looking. Incredibly easy to apply, this product feels like silk, ensuring a seamless result. The lightweight, mousse-like and non-waxy texture does not break-up makeup, and can be layered for higher color payoff.
Baby Doll is my current favorite. It looks very pink in the pot – almost neon, however, when blended, creates the perfect flushed cheek. Swoon. Apply with a light hand for a subtle effect or a heavy-hand for a statement look. Baby Doll really makes the skin look fresh and healthy.
Suggested application: Using fingertips, gently apply to the apples of the cheeks, blending up and outward toward the hairline. Gently tap into the skin for flawless blending.
