Get Gorgeous this Holiday with a Gift List from QVC

Well folks, it's Cyber Monday, and after making it through all of the plates of turkey and hoards of aggro black Friday shoppers you can now just sit back, relax, and hardly have to lift a finger to get everything you need to fulfill your holiday gift list this year.  Whether you need some help in the giving department for one of those 'hard to buy for' ladies on your list, or if you're feeling a little lost when it comes to the receiving department and have no idea what to include on your own wish list as requested from a special someone; Vogue Influencers has brought in some help from QVC's Lisa Robertson.  Lisa has put together a list of her top holiday gift picks that allow you to participate in all of the joy without all of the craziness - most coming in at less than $100.  So what are you waiting for?  Scroll on down and start your clicking, or head on over to QVC.com.  Happy shopping!

1. Mally 10-piece Deluxe Automatic Waterproof Liner Collection

Mally Beauty Evercolor Automatic Waterproof Eyeliners have a long-wearing formula that contains nourishing and conditioning ingredients. For a really cool trick, line the top lash line with the Onyx, then line that line with a colored pencil. It's a subtle peep of color.

2. bareMinerals Box of Gems 20-piece Color Collection

A 20-piece collection of stunning eye and lip shades. Experience the ultimate in luxury with 10 new eye colors and 10 high-shine lip glosses that will drizzle lips in pure color. Tip: For a jewel-toned look, pair Gem and Glow eye colors--and deepen and smoke out even more with the Twinkle shade.

3. Judith Ripka Sterling Hematite Doublet Ring

A rich, deep, cushion-cut synthetic blue quartz doublet rests above a section of hematite in this mesmerizing ring. A sterling silver twisted-rope border accents the gemstone, while four heart-shaped prongs sparkle with a Diamonique® simulated diamond in the center of each.

4. Melania Madison Avenue Bold Case Bracelet Watch

As glamorous and show-stopping as New York City itself. Clear, round crystals on the connecting links of this bracelet watch are sure to attract attention, while the bold face with its mother-of-pearl dial is a classic finishing touch.

5. Nadri Micro Pave' Criss Cross Hinged Bangle Bracelet

Eternally elegant. With four bands crafted into a crisscross design and encrusted with micro-pave-style round, clear crystals on the front, this highly polished silvertone bracelet is sure to create a lasting look.

6. Dennis Basso Button Front Ruffle Collar Coat with Rosette Detail

Everything's coming up rosettes. This gorgeous fully lined, button-front coat will warm up your outlook. Ruffle details, in-seam pockets, and a cloth rosette on the collar help this stunning outerwear piece rise to the top.

7. ISAACMIZRAHILIVE! 2 Ply Cashmere V-Neck Boyfriend Cardi

Wear this boyfriend cardigan over a simple tee paired with your favorite jeans, and accessorize it with anything from a scarf to an extra-long necklace.

8. Michael Dawkins Sterling Signature Pod Small Earrings 

Small in size, but big on stylish impact, these free-form pod earrings are ideal for every day wear and special occasions. The earrings have a seamless silhouette.

If you like what you see, let me know!  Just click the 'Join This Site' button at the top right of the homepage to keep up with Vogue fashion exclusives, new product launches, events, beauty reviews and more.  Know it first, see it first, hear it first.

All Dolled Up: Lancome Hypnose Doll Lash Mascara

All 'dolled up' for this promo pic.  Slightly creepy, no?

Who doesn't love trying out a new mascara?  It can be just enough of a change to satisfy that quest for a little something different without a whole lot of commitment.  If you really go to extremes (think big fake lashes, metallics, or even white) then it can really change your entire look.  If you ask me, a person's lashes can say a lot about their personality too -- natural, sophisticated, va-va-voom, etc.


Me personally, I typically prefer the most dramatic, 'ka-pow' type lash that I can get without looking like I'm ready for a drag show.  For this reason, I was pretty excited about getting to sample the new Lancome Hypnose Doll Lash mascara through the Vogue Influencers Network.  Lancome has long been known for their mascaras, and this one is supposed to give you that much desired, fake perfect, long, fanned, curled, wide-eyed effect without actually being fake.  Though I currently have a favorite go-to mascara that I am thrilled with, I figured that this one could give it a run for it's money if anything could.  So, let's take a look at the outcome, shall we?  

For comparison, here is the 'before' shot; sans mascara (or any other eye makeup for that matter).

And now, the 'after' shot.  Several coats top and bottom.  Not bad, eh?

Here's a look from a different angle.  Anywhere near looking like a doll?

And now the entire look with mascara, liner, and shadow - hopefully not quite as creepy as the ad above.

What do you think?  Am I ready to take my place in the mascara ad with those lashes?  I will say I was a bit surprised by the results myself, as I wasn't expecting such a noticeable difference.  I should also say that this is not a mascara that goes on boldly, but one that offers a buildable application in order to arrive at your desired intensity.  Of course, with multiple coats, comes the higher likelihood of smudging, or hitting your lid with the wand, so I would say this is not necessarily for the first-time user.  I also had no flaking or noticeable smudging with wear throughout the day.


 Now that you've seen the outcome, read about the application, and are ready to go out and buy yourself a new tube of eyelashes I should remind you that everyone's eyelashes are different, and you can only work what you've got the best you can.  If you don't have much in the eyelash department to work with in the first place, then this may not be the mascara for you.  Likewise, if you prefer a more natural look, then by all means take heed.  If you're into big, bold eye fringe like me though, then maybe you'll want to give this new Lancome Hypnose Doll Lash mascara a try.


You can pick up your tube at a Lancome counter near you, or by clicking here to visit Lancome online. 

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Clarisonic Cleansing System: For All of the Dirty Girls (and Boys) Out There. Plus a Coupon Code for 20% Off!

Oh Vogue Influencer Network, how lovely you are .... I think.  Always ahead of the curve with the latest and greatest in beauty, fashion, exclusive events, and ... vibrating body cleansers?!?!?  Yep, that's right.  My current task is to try out the Clarisonic Plus Skin Cleansing System, or as they call it, "Take the Clarisonic Challenge", and experience the "sonic difference."  Have you ever heard of this new gadget (and are you drawing the same parallels I am?), because I don't recall hearing anything about a new battery charged body brush that isn't sold to anyone under 18; and to be honest, I'm not really sure whether I should be slightly frightened, or consider it my new best friend.  Either way, the box showed up on my doorstep today, and I suppose I am going to be trying it over the next few weeks, so I can ... er, share my experiences with you while trying not to put quotes around everything that comes across like a double entendre.  


So far, I have read that this targeted cleaning pistol (hehe) is supposed to use sonic technology - I assume this means electricity/power - to "gently, yet thoroughly, cleanse 6X better than using your hands alone" (tee hee).  By removing more dirt, oil and makeup, creams and serums are able to work more effectively.    


Oh, and to make sure everyone's needs are covered, there are 3 different varieties available:  


1. The Clarisonic PLUS (which I will be trying out) -- With three speeds and a body mode, the PLUS is ideal for cleansing the face and areas of the body needing extra attention (tee hee hee). 



2.  The Clarisonic Mia Mini -- Available in a variety of colors, Mia pairs powerful sonic cleansing benefits with a single-speed, compact design. 




3. The Clarisonic Opal Sonic Infusion System -- A palm-sized device, Opal uses a micro-massage motion to infuse serum more thoroughly than manual application for younger looking eyes. (Oh right, eyes. Yes, that's exactly where I thought that was going).


Any questions?  Good, then I'll just be keeping you posted on my results.


Now that I've gotten through that, the other important thing I have to tell you is that you can try these products our for yourself!  For a limited time, you can save 20% on all Clarisonic products at: http://www.clarisonic.com by using coupon code "VogMag" on orders of $149 or more.  (Offer is effective 7/14/11 through 7/24/11 11:50PDT).  So, why leave all the fun to me?  Go grab one for yourself and create a"sonic experience" of your own!     

A Vogue Influencer Network Hookup Just For You

You've heard it first, seen it first, and gotten the lowdown first from the Vogue Influencer Network right here from me, and now it's your turn.  If you've wondered how you too could become a Vogue Influencer, here is your chance!  Just click here to take a questionnaire to see if you'll be picked to be the next to know about and share just-launched fashion and beauty collections, industry events, and exclusive product samples.  Good luck!

Josie Maran Argan Matchmaker Serum Foundation: One Shade Fits Most

Have you ever gotten a "One Size Fits All" t-shirt, and wondered how it could fit you, AND fit everyone else in the world that is a completely different shape and size than you?    Somehow, when you try it on though, it looks great on you.  And then when your friend tries in on, it looks great on him or her as well.  And then, there's that one person that, well ... it just doesn't look as great on.  Well, I believe I was that one person with this foundation.

I really wanted to like this.  Besides the fact that it just sounds space-age cool, after questing years for a foundation that is an exact match to my ghostly pallor (I usually wear a .5 foundation on a scale or 1-10 and sometimes that is too dark), I truly wanted the self-adjusting feature to work for me.  When I received my sample bottle from Sephora (through the Vogue Influencer Network), I was so anxious to see if I had finally found the answer to all of my foundation problems that I promptly washed my face and with baited breathe, gave it a go.

This is what happened.

Yikes, right?  Yeah, not so good.  I'm not sure whether the foundation color, my skin tone, or the triple chin I had to create in order to get this picture is the most frightening.  Needless to say, I could not even wear this around for a day just to get a feel for the wearability of the product.  Kind of sad, but not super surprising.  I suppose that's why I find myself back using same cosmetic brand for my foundation year after year.

As it turns out, just when you thought this little review couldn't possibly have a happy ending though, it really does.  Knowing full well that I am in the minority when it comes to luck with foundation (after years in the industry and tests of multiple brands and shades, I found maybe 2 or 3 foundations that were actually passable for me to wear in the daylight), I decided I needed to find a few more faces to try it out in order to get a more accurate review, and asked two lovely ladies at Salon 604 to give it a try and report back.  Their results not only sounded better, they looked better too (thank goodness)!

Here is the report back from the salon trials.

   The color matched my skin tone perfectly! It was cool how it went on white, and then changed to    match my complexion, though I wonder if it was just coincidence that it matched or if it actually does what it says! The argan oil makes it feel luxurious and very moisturizing, but I have oily skin so after about an hour my face felt pretty greasy. The coverage was a little light and sheer for me as I usually like something heavier.  I have a feeling someone who prefers a lighter foundation and tends to have slightly drier skin will like it a lot.

 LOVED the foundation!  My skin looked radiant! I loved the moisture in the foundation, and the coverage was perfect.  Wearing it again today!

So, in summary it seems that if you prefer a sheer coverage, tend toward the drier side, and are not the color of paste then you might have just discovered your new foundation! 

Hourglass Aura Sheer Cheek Stain: Way to Glow!

Just got my latest free sample product from the Sephora Hot Now list courtesy of the Vogue Network, and I love it!  Seriously, this new Aura blush from Hourglass makes me happy.  I received the 'Petal' shade (a peachy pink, though it also comes in a plum shade and more blue-pink shade too), and am now totally ready to rock this spring's pretty blush trend.  It makes you look great in seconds flat, is portable, and is so super versatile that it makes me wonder why I didn't know about this until now.

The formula, which is termed a 'stain', is a fabulously lightweight sheer gel/cream hybrid with a gorgeous sheen to it.  Besides this shade itself being a wonderful wake-up for winter skin, the sheen imparts what looks like a wonderfully natural glow.  Depending on how much you apply, it can go from a sheer wash of color for day to a more intense, dramatic hue for evening and beyond.

There's not much to explain in the way of application because it's as easy as twisting the bottom a few clicks and then smoothing on this great gel/cream "stain" that appears on the fabric applicator - a huge change for me instead of using a powder blush with a separate brush.

Once on,  you can blend down the edges with your fingertips a little if you need to, but if you're using a light application you probably don't even need to do that.  On top of the simple, one-step application to your cheeks, you can use this on your lids and also dab some on your lips for a subtle healthy glow on those days you don't have time to (or don't want to) make much fuss over your makeup.  Below, is an example of how using the cheek stain for an all-over color wash works.  (Keep in mind that my uber-fair complexion usually looks completely washed out without any outside help).

Light application on cheeks & eyelids

Heavier application on cheeks, lips & eyelids

This complete look was accomplished in almost no time flat using only a little foundation, the Hourglass Aura Cheek Stain in 'Petal', Buxom Smoky Eye Stick in 'Black Pistol' (still rockin it!), and some mascara.  Pretty cool for a natural look, no?  I don't know about you, but I'll take anything that helps me out this much in a matter of seconds.

Buxom Waterproof Smoky Eye Stick: Simply Seductive

Ok ladies, I know at least once in your life you've probably tried to achieve that rocking, come-hither, sexy, smoky eye look; maybe on a fun whim, or to mix things up for a night out, or just to come up with a fresh fashion statement.  I also know that everyone who has tried this look has also at least once ended up looking more like they were on the losing side of a street scuffle or even worse - a street corner,  instead of getting that daring, mysterious, sexy vixen look that they were going for.  There's no denying it; it's kind of like an inevitable right of passage.

I can't tell you how many just plain BAD 'smoky eyes' I saw when working in the cosmetics industry, and I know I've certainly had my own share of botched attempts (which I then properly removed to avoid any assumptions - correct or incorrect, from being made).  I also can't tell you how many requests I received for instruction on how to create the perfect smoky eye while I was working in the cosmetics industry either.  Personally, I've always thought that the concept of the smoky eye was a pretty simple one, but applying the concept to the reality and then explaining the technique to someone had a way of losing something in translation (or application, or supplies, or that certain je ne sais quoi).  Thank goodness someone has finally come up with a simple one step solution.  Fast forward to now, and enter the Buxom Waterproof Smoky Eye Stick from Bare Escentuals.

I received my free sample of the Buxom Waterproof Smoky Eye Stick (compliments of Sephora through the Vogue Influencer Network) in 'Smokin Pistol' - a fancy name for black.  Though I do like a dark eye on occasion, because of my fair skin tone I have given up wearing shades as dark as black around my eyes (with the exception of liner and black mascara) so I don't look like an aging goth kid - at my age, that would be authentically scary, and would have made me look like the wrong kind of sad.  Not having done a true black smoky eye in years, I figured this would not only be a test of product, but also a test of suitability.  Here is the result:

So, what do you think?  Is it working, or is it too much?  I also did more of a lighter look for contrast (and to really see the range of the eye stick), here:

In creating both looks, I found the eye stick to be quite easy to use and very versatile - you basically just draw a fat line at the base of your lashes and blend upward - a LOT.  (I cannot overstate the need to blend, blend, and then blend some more in order to achieve the smoky eye effect you want instead of the one you want to avoid).  Want a softer look, make a smaller line and blend gently upward; want a more dramatic look, make the biggest fattest line you can and then blend upward towards your brow as well as below on your lower lash line.  Easy as that.  In full disclosure, I did use a moderately stiff shadow brush, and apparently there is a brush that is made specifically for the shadow stick, but if you have one at home already I'm sure that it will do the job.  If you don't already use makeup brushes, you could easily use a shadow applicator sponge, or even your finger (though because of the waterproof property of the pencil, I would start with applying a little foundation on the eyelid to assist in blending should you decide to use your finger).  I also played around with a little shimmer at the brow bone and the tear duct at the inner corner just to brighten things up a bit.

All in all, I was so pleased with the minimal effort required for a maximum effect, that I'd really like to try some of the other colors.  Even better, the look was 'Jay approved' - how often does a cosmetic come along that even the male in your life notices in a good way?!?!  Oh, and this stuff definitely holds up to water (which means it doesn't crease or run while wearing).

Though I can't speak to a dip in the pool, it certainly withstands the tap extremely well, and also did well through a shower (yep, I tried it).  While this doesn't come off in water when you don't want it to, unlike some other waterproof formulas I've tried in the past,  it does come off quite easily with a little eye makeup remover or face wash when you are ready to try a new look!  Pretty nifty little eye stick if you ask me.

Sephora by OPI Nail Colour, 'Slushied' from the Limited Edition Glee Collection

I just received the first item off of the March Sephora Hot Now list - a full-sized sample bottle of Sephora by OPI 'Slushied' nail polish from the new Glee Collection, courtesy of Sephora and Vogue, and couldn't wait to try it out.  Although I usually prefer more of a non-traditional shade on my nails, I was a little skeptical that this one was going to be 'age-appropriate' for me.  Well, maybe some would say that it isn't, but now that I have it on, I think I REALLY like the way it looks!  What do you think, love it or hate it? (Be honest).

For me, it just seems like such a happy color.  It puts me in mind of the warmer weather that I know (fingers crossed) is on its way, and it's a big change from the Chanel 'Black Pearl' that I've been wearing for the past month.  I really can't wait to try it out on my toes with a great pair of summer sandals (and maybe a beach).

Although I can't speak to how it wears, I'm sure if it is anything like the other OPI colors, then it should be quite resilient with the appropriate top coat, and care.  The picture above is using just one coat over a base coat (I couldn't wait for another coat to dry), so I'm sure it only looks better from there.  The other shades in the limited edition collection look like they are pretty fun and ready for spring as well.  If you're interested, you can check them out here.

Sephora Hot Now + Vogue = Exciting New Product Reviews from Yours Truly!

So, as some of you may know, I was selected to be a part of the Vogue Influencer Network at the end of last year.  Basically, this means that I get the inside scoop on lots of new stuff through Vogue, and then share feedback on what I really think about it.  This week, the exciting announcement was made that Vogue is teaming up with beauty retailer Sephora, with a focus on the Sephora Hot Now list.  The Sephora Hot Now list features new and exciting products all hand-picked by Sephora's beauty experts as being breakthrough beauty products, cool collaborations, or unique finds.  With the help of Vogue, Sephora is now providing ME the ability to tell YOU (and Vogue) whether or not these items are really all that they're cracked up to be.  How cool is that?!?!

Since I've been treated to a look at things to come on this month's list, I couldn't wait to share.  Drumroll please ....


SEPHORA by OPI Nail Colour Glee Collection



Josie Maran Matchmaker Serum Foundation



Buxom Waterproof Smoky Eye Stick



Peter Thomas Roth Laser-Free Resurfacer with Dragon’s Blood



tokidoki Sodashop Tin



Hourglass Aura Sheer Cheek Stain



Couture Color Pequi Oil Treatment




DiorShow 360 Mascara



So, there they are!  What I need to know now, is what YOU want to know most about, and which ones may have you a little worried (uh-um, the 'Dragon's Blood Resurfacer maybe?  Do we now know where Charlie Sheen's blood is going? Oh wait, that's tiger blood, nevermind).  I can't wait to hear which one you're looking forward to hearing more about, and being able to share the results with you!

Weekend Makeover

Wow, am I glad this is a three-day weekend (thank you MLK Jr)!  I am still yearning for another cup of coffee at 4 in the afternoon, and have contemplated a nap on several occasions throughout the day.  Unlike normal weekends that typically consist of an evening or two out, some various tidying of the house, errands, and time with friends; this weekend was filled largely with family.  Now, for Jay and myself, most family events consist of driving, having some conversation about current events or computer issues, eating, and then more driving.  Not to say that we don't appreciate the time spent, but we have previously not taken the most active roles that we could have in family participation; probably partly due to distance, and partly due to the stage we are at in our lives (busy career, no kids, social demands, etc).  This weekend, we entered into a whole new level of family participation when we invited our teenage niece, Rachael, to come spend the night.

Previously having some experience being a teenage girl, I remember how fun my own aunts seemed, and how I valued their influence and different approaches to life.  They were really strong role-models for me (even if they didn't know it at the time), and I aspired to duplicate different parts of their lives in my own.  I suppose I took the one thing that they all gave to me that meant the most - their time, and wanted to pass that irreplaceable thing on to my own niece.  After previously working in the cosmetics industry myself, and having developed a crush on the artistry of it all, I thought it might be fun to share my love of the subject with someone who is just approaching that place of self-awareness, exploration, AND confusion, by taking her for her first 'makeover'.  To add to the fun, we were also tasked with finding a dress for an upcoming school dance, and visiting with my Dad, who had made a three hour drive into town for a visit.  Whew!  What a packed day it turned out to be!

We started our fun by having lunch at New York Deli with my Dad, who did not miss a bite even for this picture!

Jay and Rachael were able to refrain from eating for their photo op.

After lunch, it was on to the mall for 'Dress Quest 2011'.  Rachael looked super cute and sparkly in this fabulous sequin number, humoring me by trying something completely out of her comfort zone and looking so fabulous in it!

Dress number two was a little more demure, but still smokin hot ... what a  cute niece I have!

On to the makeover!  BIG thanks to my friend Jonye Cordova of Chanel Cosmetics, and Jonyegirl Faces Makeup Artistry for showing Rachael the ropes.  It was great to catch up with old and new friends for some much needed laughter.  (Check out Jonye's blog for the latest cosmetic tips and tricks)!

And voila ... Rachael looking polished and proper with her new look!

So, we didn't end up finding the perfect dress or shoes, but we did find the perfect lipstick and the perfect time spent together.  Until recently, I think I had forgotten how important an influence our friends and family members can have on us, and what it means to see that someone has enough of an interest in you to really care enough to go out of their way to show it.  There are so many pitfalls in life, that it's truly nice to know that there is someone (or hopefully more than one someone) that has had your back from day one, and will continue to have your back as far as you can see into the future.  Having grown up feeling quite connected to my extended family, and developing special friendships over the years, I realized this weekend that not only do I miss and need their personal involvement in my life, but also that they might want and need mine.  I have always know what a makeover can do for one's self esteem and personal outlook, but I had never really contemplated how much a makeover in the cosmetics department could truly inspire a reconnection with those around us that are most important.