Peter Thomas Roth Giveaway

Dolls. You know how I feel about Peter Thomas Roth. The brand also feels things deeply for Beauty Blogging Junkie readers and as such, they've offered 20 of you an exclusive chance to win a sample of the fabulous new Illuminating High Definition Moisturizer. The product has been a HUGE hit and has sold out at a number of Sephoras already. 
All you have to do is:

• Fan the PTR Facebook page

• Write on their wall "Beauty Blogging Junkie sent me" (Like Large Marge sent me of Pee Wee's Big Adventure fame)

And that's it! I'll randomly choose 20 winners (via Random Number Generator) and will announce them on Friday, April 2.

Good luck, peaches!
UPDATE: Here are the winners!

1.       Adrian Kaplan Rosen
2.       Ursula Maria Davis
3.       Jennifer Ahmu
4.       Charlotte Moller
5.       Stephen Di Dio
6.       Nancy Chu
7.       Karen Ramirez
8.       Melanie Lazor
9.       Lisa Lemis
10.    Nikki Tarantino
11.    Erin Stuart
12.    Maribeth Navarro
13.    Sabrina At Carecom
14.    Lexi Jadoff
15.    Jenn Logan
16.    Jessica Barber
17.    Brittany Mortan
18.    Melanie Gary
19.    Kim Sparks Glover
20.    Chris Valle

Congrats, all! You'll get your prizes shortly.

 
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Bare Escentuals Sale on Rue La La

Get involved with this Bare Escentuals sale going on now at Rue La La. Score an invite here.

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New See-through Renu® Fresh™ Multi-purpose Contact Lens Solution

Now you no longer have to live in fear of Last Day Of Your Contact Lens Solution Day. You know: The day you find out you have enough solution to clean and store one and a half lenses. Of course, you have two. So you squeeze your dry, empty bottle and hear a pathetic wheeze. A wheeze that says, "get thee to Duane Reade, stat." But you don't. You're home. It's late. You're not going out. So you dig through your stash and find a travel bottle of solution that has JUST enough to last you until tomorrow. When you promptly forget to purchase more solution on your way home and live through the whole shenanigan again, except this time... you have ZERO solution.

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What's On Felicia Sullivan's Vanity?

The What's On Your Vanity Series showcases a single beauty item a blogger loves because it's effective, but also she feels she must keep out on top of her vanity because the gorgeous packaging must be displayed.
 
Felicia Sullivan gives me a run for my neologism money. Can that gal ever coin a phrase. I've had to beg her permission to have joint custody of "never again tour 2010" in exchange for "spesh." Because that's just how it's done. In addition to her fabulous blog, I love her incredibly well written novel The Sky Isn't Visible From Here. Not an easy read by any means, but incredibly poignant. She's truly one of my favorite writers. She's real and talented as all get out (you'll see, even in the short snippet she wrote below). And boy does she know how to rock a red. With that, I give you Felicia's fave product, in her words: 

Without a doubt, it’s MAC’s Russian Red.


In the sixth grade, I was a spectacle. I stomped up to the courtyard of I.S. 88 sporting brown and green eyeshadow. My eyes were a massacre of this odd convergence of color, and when my friends howled and laughed and shook their heads, I wiped off the shadow with the edge of my sleeve and swore I’d never wear makeup again. Until the cruel grunge decade of the '90s where brown lipstick, brown shadow and morose flannels were the collegiate rage. I’ve never quite found my way with makeup--the litany of brushes, the complexity of application and the dizzying array of options confound and confuse me, and I often find myself in Sephora with an intense feeling of vertigo.

Enter MAC’s Russian Red. You always remember your first, an as soon as I rocked this lip color I was forever transformed. I’m fair with dark hair and the contrast was striking, and gone were the desire for shadow application and cream blush layering for I had found power in a pout. From the sleek, minimalist packaging to the intense, saturated matte color with deep blue undertones, Russian Red is perfection personified. And whether I’m jetting into a morning meeting or baking with friends, I feel confident donning a bold, red lip.


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What's On Casey Carter's Vanity?

The What's On Your Vanity Series showcases a single beauty item a blogger loves because it's effective, but also she feels she must keep out on top of her vanity because the gorgeous packaging must be displayed.


Casey Culture is my gal Casey Carter's blog that covers everything from her adorbs dog Lady (I CAN'T EVEN WITH THIS DOG) to beauty products to restaurants. It's entirely New York and entirely fabulous. Casey's on-vanity item is actually one that graces mine as well. Here it is:

Because of full disclosure, I have to admit that this is a client. However, I absolutely adore it!


I have the old-school notion, instilled in me from my glamorous grandmother, that perfume is meant to be a piece of art and grace the top of a gorgeous vanity. With that said, my most covetable Vanity item is actually a new find--Chloé Eau de Toilette. Not only is this fresh, feminine fragrance perfect for spring, but it is also blooming with elegance and charm. The floral fusion scent is housed in a luxurious ridged glass bottle, wrapped with a lady-like ivory ribbon that looks positively posh atop my girly vanity.


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Mally Beauty Sale on Gilt Groupe!

There's a Mally Beauty sale on Gilt Groupe now! Click here for an invite.

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What's On Kristin Booker's Vanity?

Kristin Booker's site Fashion.Style.Beauty offers a fresh take on all things fabulous. I met Kristin a couple years ago at a fashion show and have come to look forward to our frank, no-holds-barred banter at market events. She's a gal after my own heart. She shares her vanity-worthy makeup item here:

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Rihanna's Makeup Look at the 2010 Nickelodeon Kid's Choice Awards

Makeup artist Mylah Morales used the new NARS Cosmetics Pro-Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base to keep Rihanna’s look long-lasting throughout her red carpet appearance and performance at the Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards on Saturday, March 27. She also used NARS Cosmetics Angelika Blush and the Orgasm Illuminator. In other news, I'm loving Rihanna's new side-swept darker haircolor streaked hairstyle. 

What say you?

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Shu Uemura to Exit U.S.

Worst. News. Ever. Where am I going to try on fierce lashes NOW? One of my favorite Saturday afternoon activities WAS trying on lashes at the Bloomingdale's Tokyo Lash Bar and then reading foreign fashion mags at Barnes & Noble. This just in:

Per WWD:
L’Oréal USA said Monday that it will close all U.S. operations of Shu Uemura Cosmetics.


L’Oréal took a 35 percent stake in Shu Uemura in 2000, going on to acquire a controlling interest in November 2003. The brand’s current U.S. distribution was forged in 2004, although selected stockkeeping units entered the American market in 2003.

Though Shu Uemura counters in the U.S. will be shuttered, American Shu lovers can rest assured that they'll still be able to buy Shu online at shuuemura.com.

Source: WWD 


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Kerastase Sale: Get 30% Off With This Code...

Kerastase sale alert!

Enjoy this last chance to scoop up the limited remaining quantities at a discount at kerastase-usa.com, through April 30. Get 30% off by entering promo code VIP30 at checkout.

Products include:

Lait Nutri-Sculpt: Light-weight hair foundation for smoothness and shine

Lumiere Nutri-Sculpt: Luminizing creme adds control and manageability with incredible shine

Nutridéfense Spray: Leave-in anti-dryness spray provides softness and shine

Mousse Nutri-Sculpt: Bodifying hair foundation for long-lasting body and hold

Elixir Oléo-Relax: Ultimate control for smoothing and anti-frizz protection

Masque Oléo Curl: Weightless conditioning curl definition masque

Bain Divalent: Shampoo for scalp oil control

Forcintense: Reinforcing and refinishing treatment program for very weakened hair

Noctogenist: Overnight renewing treatments for dull, tired-looking hair


AND MORE! Discounts will be shown at checkout after you enter the promo code.

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Blue Glow by JLo

Another day, another celeb fragrance. This time, it's Jennifer Lopez.

Blue Glow by JLo, Jennifer Lopez's latest fragrance, which will launch later this week.  Sumptuous floral unites with fruit and warm, sensual wood for Blue Glow by JLo. (P.S. I thought we weren't calling her that anymore? Anyone know definitively whether the JLo nickname is still on?) Anyway, taking a cue from Glow by JLo (obv), this fruity floral scent channels the mysterious ocean in a curvaceous bottle washed in a deep blue hue. 

Jennifer added a personal touch to the fragrance with a sexy anklet, which adorns the bottle. Fragrance plus jewelry is a major theme of 2009/2010, n'est-ce pas?

Top Notes: Mangosteen, Valencia Orange, Red Current Blossom
Mid Notes: Wild Water Lily, Shimmering Water Accord, Vintage Rose, Vanilla Orchid
Base Notes: Cedarwood, Mahogany Wood, Florymoss, Venezuelan Tonka Bean

The Blue Glow by JLo Collection:
Eau de Toilette - $32 (1.0 oz/ 30 ml)
Glistening Body Lotion - $27.50

The Blue Glow by JLo Collection will be available April 2010.




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What's On Dina Fierro's Vanity?

The What's On Your Vanity Series showcases a single beauty item a blogger loves because it's effective, but also she feels she must keep out on top of her vanity because the gorgeous packaging must be displayed.

 

 My gal Dina's blog Eye4Style is a MUST-read. Not only is Dina's subtly hilarious take on all things fashion and beauty vital, the gal is also a social media genius. I frequently seek her counsel for all things accessory, facebook and cat. You know. The basics. We've already discussed her love of an (as she puts it) an old lady compact in this post, but she waxed poetic about it a little more for you gals here:

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Love + Toast Sugar Grapefruit Perfume

Grapefruit scents are purported to make you appear slimmer, but that's just icing on the beautifully fragrant cake that is Love + Toast Sugar Grapefruit Perfume.

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Destination: Procrastination

The Beauty Frenzy Over Moroccanoil [VOGUE]

Makeup Tips From Carmindy [Glamour's The Girls In The Beauty Department]

Get Dakota Fanning's Look For Less [Betty Confidential]

The Next Season Of The Hills Will Be Its Last! [NYmag.com's The Cut blog]

Indulge in Soap And Glory! [College Candy]

The Craziest Things We've Found In Our Bras [Lemondrop]

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Elements 5 Heat Tools Sale on Ideeli

Take advantage of the Elements 5 hair dryer  and flat iron extravaganza today on ideeli! Need an invite to ideeli? I got you covered. Click here to get involved.

The deets on Elements 5:

Smooth Operators: Advanced and innovative features make the styling irons, straighteners, and blow dryers from Elements 5 more than just hot air. Each uses Brazilian tourmaline, which emits negative ions, said to help dry hair faster and leave it frizz-free. A 100% ceramic heating system means controlled, even output without scorching, and instant heat up/cool off mean less annoyance (and danger) surrounding your groggy morning beautification routines. You’ll also find professional-strength high heat, rubberized handles, and ergonomic shapes, making for a comfy ride to beautiful hair.

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Sam Brocato Curlinterrupted Actives Restorative Hair Infusion: Instant Shine

Sam Brocato's new Moroccanoil-like alternative imparts instant shine and smoothness. Just in time for this Noah's Ark-ish weather we're having, n'est-ce pas? His Brocato Curlintterupted Actives Restorative Hair Infusion when worked through just washed hair. Best of all, when paired with a blow dryer, it works as a conditioning booster and even works to speed blow dry time by 40%.

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Citrus-Infused Body Products

Now that spring has arrived, the last thing you want is a heavy, perfumey body wash. Lighten up with our fresh, sultry citrus-scented body beauty product picks. With ingredients like mandarin, lemon, bergamot and orange, you'll love these items' veritable fruit salad of zingy fragrances. Here, a few of my favorites:

• 
  
  
  Suave Naturals Mango Mandarin Refreshing Body Wash If lather lights your fire, then look no further. This fruity scented shower gel cleanses skin while imparting a light mango-mandarin scent while moisturizing it to a healthy glow. And the price? Very nice.

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Stila Friday Happy Hour Special!

Stila is running a Friday Happy Hour Special: Get three Barbie Loves Stila Lip Glazes for just $22 (a $66 value). Get yours at stilacosmetics.com. The deal is good through midnight, tonight.

Enjoy!

 

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What's On Jamie Allison Sanders' Vanity?

Jamie Allison Sanders' blog The Beauty of Life frequently rips off my own, but you should check it out for her fabulous First Look Friday interviews which feature beauty insider subjects ranging from Redken Creative Consultant for Color Tracey Cunningham to fellow beauty bloggers, like my gal Andrea Arterbery of The Glamazons. Here are Jamie's thoughts on her favorite on-vanity item:

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Chanel Summer 2010 Collection

Bold and audacious, Gabrielle Chanel pushed the boundaries of style. Now Peter Philips continues the tradition by creating a free-spirited makeup collection inspired by an idyllic seaside vista: LES POP-UP DE CHANEL, fresh new cult-worthy hues for lips and nails. Vibrant pops of color, including neon pink, sunny coral and brilliant turquoise are beautifully complemented by bronzed, glowing skin...and sure to be the standout shades of summer.


On counter: May 2010
Available at www.CHANEL.com, CHANEL boutiques and department stores. 

 


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Juice Beauty Sale on Hautelook

Click here for an invite. Enjoy!


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Secrets of Lady Gaga's Hairstyle in the Telephone Video

My coworker Megan McIntyre edited this guest post from hair maven Danilo all about how he achieved the crazy hair Lady Gaga rocks in the Telephone video with Beyonce. Check it:

Think you can't recreate the looks of your favorite celebs? Think again. Guest editor, celebrity hairstylist and Pantene global ambassador Danilo shares his best beauty tips on how to score the hairstyles you love, straight off the red carpet. Danilo has worked with some of the biggest names in Hollywood, including Gwen Stefani, Anne Hathaway, Penelope Cruz, and many more.

Photos: © Interscope Records

I had the pleasure of designing and styling Lady Gaga's hair for her new Telephone music video. We shot the video two days before the Grammys and the only thing on my mind at that time was Lady Gaga. When I arrived on the set at 4 a.m. I just knew it was going to be an aggressive two-day shoot. Most videos take several days to shoot and we were producing a mini-movie in 48 hours! That should give you a pretty vivid mental picture of all the madness that went on.

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Anthony Body Essentials Shower Gel in Spirit

This review of Anthony Body Essentials Shower Gel in Spirit comes courtesy of our resident Daily Makeover IT dude Michael (who's actually a college senior).  In Michael's words:

After my weekend at home filled with non-stop studying, essay-writing, and caffeine I managed to schedule a shower. Since my overall hygiene decreased drastically, I felt it would be a great opportunity to try out the new products you have given me. 

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Michelle Phan's Latest Video: Makeup For Eyeglass Wearers

Dolls, this weekend, I purchased a MUCH-NEEDED pair of new glasses. They're a fabulous pair of Pradas I scored at Lens Crafters and I live for them. But it's been a while since I've rocked specs whilst wearing makeup (I usually wear contacts), so I very much appreciate makeup maven Michelle Phan's expert advice. Just one of the gems she imparts: Make sure to conceal thoroughly under your eyes as glasses cast a shadow that can exacerbate dark circles. Genius.

Source: The Lancome Blog



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What's On Andrea Lavinthal's Vanity?

Friend or Frenemy author Andrea Lavinthal is also Senior Beauty Editor at realbeauty.com. I adore her because she can always be counted on to entertain even in the swiftest of interactions and for that reason, she is one of my fave beauty event buddies. Her favorite pretty primping products are from the Bond No. 9 Chinatown collection. Check out which ones and why, in Andrea's words:

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New Elizabeth Arden Collection: Get Your Bronze On

Get Your Bronze On is this year’s sultry, summer color collection from Elizabeth Arden.  If you are looking for a fresh, glamorous look to brush off those winter days, our Spring/Summer collection is exactly what you need!

   

Get Your Bronze On boasts luxurious products, including Pure Finish Mineral Bronzing Powder.  This new formula conditions skin with fresh-ground, micro-light minerals that impart a beautiful natural glow, perfect for any summer day.  The compact also comes with a collapsible kabuki brush.

 

To achieve natural looking, even-toned skin, the brand introduces Pure Finish Mineral Tinted Moisturizer SPF15.  This summer essential comes in four universally-flattering shades and is infused with micro-light minerals, vitamins and antioxidants.  

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Stila Sale on Hautelook

Guys, STILA at STELLAR prices! Get on board with this Hautelook sale starting today at 8am PT. Need an invite? Score one here.

You're welcome,
Amber


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British Indie Brand: Jelly Pong Pong

About the brand's name, yeah. That's what I said, too. "'Scusey whaty who? Jelly Pong Pong?" But don't knock this UK-based line, which is in equal parts whimsical and fabulous. Before you worry that you won't be able to get your hands on it in the U.S., rest assured that Jelly Pong Pong products can be shipped to anywhere in the world (For the U.S., there's a $7 shipping fee). Founder Susan Chyi has really cornered a niche: a cosmetic fantasia of gorgeously packaged makeup confections that really deliver. A couple of my fave items from this indie line:

The Lip Orchid Set (£12)
This duo boasts buttery glosses that reside in a pot on which lives a gorge orchid. Won't busting these out your purse on a crowded subway bring a smile to your facial--even if you DO have to travel to and from work practically in a stranger's armpit? I think so.

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Aromachology Event At Henri Bendel

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What's On Nadine Haobsh's Vanity?

The What's On Your Vanity Series showcases a single beauty item a blogger loves because it's effective, but also she feels she must keep out on top of her vanity because the gorgeous packaging must be displayed.

Nadine Haobsh is a beauty blogging pioneer. She's pretty much the Laura Ingalls Wilder of beauty blogs. She's been blogging since early 2005, before a New York Times article falsly accusing beauty bloggers of being in it for the swag ironically yielded... a proliferation of beauty cloggers in it just for swag and events they invite themselves to. But I digress. I love to check in at Jolie Nadine to learn about the latest Brit gossip (my hidden guilty pleasure is Hello! magazine) and Nadine's most recent hair hues (she switches it up quite often). Here, her favorite beautiful vanity-worthy product, in her words:

My “this is way too pretty to be stored” product is Forever Lily perfume. It’s a musky oriental, and it goes without saying that it smells divine. The packaging is so ridiculously awesome, however, that it actually sits at the top of my decorative glass bookshelf in the center of my bedroom—perfume case cracked open so it’s properly displayed—with the frosted bottle nestled inside like a little jewel. You walk in the door and it’s like: music plays, angels sing, world peace breaks out: FOREVER LILY!!

Thanks, Nadine! Stay tuned for more of What's On Your Vanity?

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Purple Hair A La Kelly Osbourne

Just in time for spring 2010, Marshmallow Peep-inspired hair hues! These hairstyles prove that it's totally modern to go utterly unconventional and still look fabulous. The colors are unexpected, and yet, don't veer into Mrs. Betty Slocombe territory of '80s British sitcom Are You Being Served fame.

Kelly Osbourne recently premiered lilac locks. The effect is surprisingly pretty and wearable. It suits her skin tone and eye color.Credit: © Jamie McCarthy/WireImage

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Laura Geller Makeup Sale

laurageller.com: The sale ends March 24. Like this post? Don't miss another one! Subscribe via my RSS feed.

This Week's Rue La La Sales

Tuesday, March 23

Just Cavalli

Elite European Yachting on the Sea Dream

Something Sweet: Deliver the Decadence

Wednesday, March 24

MICHAEL Michael Kors

Michael Kors Home

Pahlmeyer

Thursday, March 25

Free People (my FAVE!)

Jane Marvel

Simple

Frette

Friday, March 26

Lafayette 148 New York

Carla Mancini

Liz Palacios

Bailey Street

 Score an invite here.

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Mattification of the Nation: At-home, In-shower Tips

Introducing a new column on BBJ called Mattification of the Nation! It features tips from my hairstylist Matthew Fugate, formerly with Sam Brocato Salon, has recently accepted a position at Sally Hershberger Uptown.  Yay for Matt!

Here are a couple of his best in-shower hair tips, in his own words:

1.Shampoos are now become less and less lathering (sudsy) because of the amount of sulfate-free shampoos coming out on the market.

Read more...

This Week's ideeli Sales

 

Score an invite at ideeli.com/invite/beautybloggingjunkie:

Monday, March 22, 2010

RTW:

Custo Barcelona

Contemporary

Cosabella

Intimates

Nicole Miller

Dresses

Accessories:

Jenlari

Jewelry

Mclintock

Evening bags

Vanessa

Clutches

Badgley Mischka

Shoes

Peugeot

Watches

Home:

Donna Karan

BedBath

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

RTW:

Spring Escape

All Spring Essentials

Cinzia Rocca

Outerwear

Tail

Active

Dylan George

Denim

Donna Rico

Dresses

Accessories:

HOBO

Handbags

Seiko

Watches

Home:

London Fog

Luggage

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

RTW:

Rawyalty

Knits

Cino

Updated

Jessica Simpson

Dresses

Accessories:

M.Camus

Jewelry

Betsey Johnson

Handbags

Sunglasses

Coconuts

Shoes

Home:

Core Bamboo

House wares

Thursday, March 25, 2010

RTW:

Kensie

Contemporary

Denim

Max Mara

Bridge

Marina

Bridge Special

Accessories:

Sidney Evan

Jewelry

Gwyneth

Shoes

Moschino

Watches

Home:

Bechetti

Décor

Friday, March 26, 2010

RTW:

Leola Couture

Contemporary

Dresses

Honey Dew

Intimates

Beetle Juice

Kids

Accessories:

David Aubrey

Jewelry

Hype

Handbags

Vince Camuto

Shoes

Home:

Nourison Rugs

Décor

Saturday, March 27^th, 2010

RTW:

Bejeweled

Active

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New: Lipstick Queen Discovery Kit

Lipstick is back! For you prom-goers, perhaps you've never EVEN owned a lipstick since it's been a decade since the solid lip bullet's hayday, but like all things '90s, it's back with a vengence. Lipstick Queen is making it easy for you to ease back into it with the introduction of the new Lipstick Queen Discovery Kit. The fabulous Poppy King has selected three of her best selling lipsticks and packaged them into a stunning little box to get you gorgeous for spring:

Medieval
(my FAVORITE Lipstick Queen product--and I have MANY)  A sheer red that is super light on the lips to give you just a sexy hint of red.  This stain is packed with Vitamin E to help condition and soften lips.

Saint Nude
From Poppy’s original Saint collection this is that perfect 60’s nude that looks super chic on the lips.  Infused with Shea Butter for extra hydration.

Butterfly Ball in Fly
A fun and flirty sheer fuchsia with a fabulous hint of iridescence.  Features a hint of blue shimmer to make teeth look brighter and whiter. 

The Lipstick Queen Discovery Kit ($48) is available this month at Space NK, Barneys New York, Henri Bendel and online at www.lipstickqueen.com. Purchase it and make a discovery worthy of Vasco da Gama and Columbus.


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DDF SKin Care Sale on Rue La La

Stock up on DDF Skin Care at Rue La La! The sale will last just another two days. Score an invite at http://ruelala.com/invite/akatz. Enjoy!

 

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Dr. Dennis Gross Skin Care Giveaway!

This week, I've partnered with Dr. Dennis Gross Skin Care to offer you guys TWO giveaways: One on Twitter and one on here, since I know some of my readers are not so into Twitter. Each giveaway will feature a basket chock full of Dr. Dennis Gross Skin Care products valued at over $500. The basket will include the following, among a few extra bonus items:

All In One Cleansing Foam

Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel

All In One Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15

Hydra-Pure Antioxidant Firming Serum

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Carol's Column: A Crush on Scents

 By Carol (My mother)

Among the many movie queens who posthumously reign on TCM, Marlene Dietrich has never been one of my favorites. After reading the scathing, Mommy Dearest-style biography written by her daughter, Maria Riva, my opinion of her has only deteriorated further. Personally, I have always preferred her arch rival, Greta Garbo, who easily surpasses her, I believe, in beauty and subtlety of acting.

Nevertheless, Marlene and I do have something in common, (possibly the only thing) and that is an appreciation for geraniums. According to Ms. Riva, they were her favorite flowers. She would grandly disdain roses for them, anytime. I cannot say that I would go that far.  Though geraniums do crowd my sunroom, it is mostly because they are impervious to broiling.  That, and of course the spectrum of color they provide. Their fragrance is unpronounced until I deadhead them, but then, the crushed petals on my fingertips release a decidedly pleasant, “garden-y” aroma.

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Happy Birthday To My Grandmother!

On Friday, my grandmother turned 90. While the most exciting events for her peers are bus rides to Atlantic City to sit, gamble, and chat about their diminishing dietary options, Natalie Konstantinovsky Adler (whom my family calls Bummy or Bum for short--it's not a riff on the term hobo; it's a nickname that stems from my brother's childhood mispronunciation of the word "bubbe" which is Yiddish for grandmother) still treats herself to junk food on a regular basis and enjoys watching LOST with my brother and me. Her effervescence is astonishing for a woman her age. In fact, my first exposure to The Golden Girls was when she'd watch it with my brother and me while she babysat us on Saturday nights when my parents went out in the '80s.

My grandmother is not consumed with beauty products the way I am (nor is my mother... my hoarding tendencies are actually passed down from my father, though his "poison" is electronics). But she tells the best beauty story I've ever heard. The story is this: When my grandmother was in her 40s, she attended her niece Arlene's engagement party. She'd just recently purchased a skin care oil at the drugstore (the DRUGSTORE) called Nulife. They don't make it anymore. Trust me, I've searched far and wide, and you will too once you hear the rest of this story. It was a skin care item so divine, it made you look YEARS younger immediately upon application. It made my grandmother look so spry that not one, but SEVERAL people at the engagement party... MISTOOK HER FOR THE BRIDE TO BE, who was in her early 20s. In her 40s. Can you even?

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