Pat McGrath - British make-up artist. Brilliant!

Herve Leger Fall Winter 2010

I adore looking at Herve Leger.
I say looking at,
because the signature bandaged bondaged tightly bound look
is not for the curvy girls.
But on the model bod's, it looks sensational!

I absolutely LOVE the hair and makeup from the fall winter 2010 show.
More so than the clothes.

Check it out:
A clean, simple look
focus on beautiful skin
soft cheeks
natural, full, unsculptured brows
gentle eye makeup
and a bright, exciting, fun pop of color on the lip.

Immaculate!

And most women will look truly lovely
in a version of this look.


They paired it with a long, groomed, low pony
with the hair pulled back from the face.

This too is a great look!
Paired with a fuller brow, the eye is drawn upwards
making the face look leaner.

Clean, groomed looks, with hair off the face
are so honest and youthful.
I love them.

I love this look for summer too.
Its so fresh and clean.
Borderline athletic.

Great with a sundress.


And what do you know?
They achieved this sexy pony
with my favorite product!

Moroccan Oil

Here they are using the Moroccan Oil Luminous Hairspray,
creating texture, yet finishing weightless and invisible,
with that killer Moroccan Oil shine.

Sex 2 Premiere Red Carpet

Sex and The City Premiere, NYC

I had to put this one in
because I can't stop looking at SJP's dress.
I think it was Valentino?

She looked stunning!
She really knows how to work it, and I love and respect that.

I liked Kim Cattrall's dress, but think her makeup was too severe.
Dominates and overwhelms.
Or maybe it was just this picture?
Pink. Pretty. Nice and bright.


Um...
Not feeling it.
Too funereal for late May.

Swimsuit shopping 101

So its that time of the year to renew the swimsuit vows.
90% of all females hate shopping for swimwear.

I had to do it a couple of weeks ago
but was lucky enough to have a stylist pull suits & figure it all out for me.

She had tons of info that I thought you might find useful.

So here we go,

Swimsuit Shopping 101.

This season is all about the maillot (yay!)
but not all one pieces are created equal.

Fabrics

Your typical nylon-lycra blends don't actually last that long, and they tend to lose their shape more quickly. Instead look for a tightly woven polymide microfiber. It will wear better and help hide your bumpy bits as well as hold you in a little better.

Metallics not only accentuate girth, but they lose sheen when wet, and can become see through.
They also stain more easily, and show suntan lotion, perspiration etc.

Always hand wash swimsuits, (preferably with specialty swimwear detergent),
rinse well and lie flat to dry.Never put in the washing machine, never tumble dry.
This will break down the fabric

Shape Shifters

Ruching or shirring in the torso hides extra weight in your mid section.
Miraclesuit

A single vertical detail in the center draws the eye upward and is instantly slimming.
Miraclesuit

High cut bottoms make the legs look longer.(but you need a firm derriere to pull it off)
Vix

Frills and extra fabric detail will make a flat chest look fuller, and plump out a flat bottom.

If you have good shoulders, a halter will draw the eye up and away from the hips.


Kenneth Cole Desert Dots Halter

A wide bust band will narrow the waist and help support big boobs.

Karla Colletto Red Maillot
Center detail or accessories will make a small chest look bigger

Small patterns are busy and distract the eye, making you look thinner
than you would in plain black

Melissa Odabash

Um..yeah...I guess you could wear this on safari...
Calvin Klein

Personally I avoid black like the plague, as I always think it looks like you're trying to hide.
This year I wanted turquoise
But she made me buy black anyway.

My last, personal piece of advice for swimsuit shopping?
Get an airbrush tan a couple of days before you go.
If your limbs are all golden and tanned
everything will look so much better!
There's nothing quite like winter white thighs
to make the whole experience so much worse

Prada Me This Way...

Some days its Prada or bust.
I was looking for a cool summery bag
for an evening on the town.
This one caught my eye.
Isn't it cool?
I love the color.
love the shape,
and adore the embellishment.
Although I do wonder if it would
snag the fabric of your dress?

Once in full Prada mode
there's no avoiding their shoes.
I love these.
A girl needs a high black summer sandal.

Gorgeous with a little summer dress.
Alluring with a cropped pant.
Straight up sexy with a mini or shorts.
The platform and heel
combined with the ankle strap
elongate the leg.

Whats not to love??

ELLE photoshoot with Miranda Kerr

Here's a little something fabulous for you!
Miranda Kerr on an ELLE shoot.

I love the bit where she says she embraces her curves.
What curves???
Regardless, she is super sexy hot.

Enjoy!

Happy Hour Acapulco Style

Its Friday
Its summertime
Time for a little something fun to drink

Acapulco Cliff Hanger

Now you know they say watermelon is good for you if you're retaining fluids...

You will need:

1 cup watermelon chunks, pureed and strained (makes about 1/3 cup)
2 oz tequila (Cruz tequila is my favorite)
1 oz lemon simple syrup
1 oz lime juice
1 oz Cointreau

Filled a chilled glass with ice.
Pour everything over the ice.
Top up with Club Soda
and a squeeze of fresh lime.
Garnish with a lime wedge.

Super simple
Totally refreshing on a hot summer afternoon.

The 10 Most Fabulous Things This May

I haven't done a top 10 list for a while,
but here are the 10 most fabulous things
that I'm loving this month

1. Jantzen Vamp Swimsuit
How crazy hot is this?? This 50's inspired halter swimsuit is the epitome of aquatic chic.
It comes is black and java and hot pink, but this green caught my eye

2. The Maxi
How fabulous to have these gorgeous full length dresses back again.
Fun and floaty, paired with flats and a low pony, quite possibly the loveliest look of the season.

Jennifer Garner, Sienna Miller, Miley Cyrus, Mischa Barton, Rachel Bilson

3. Jantzen Coverup
I've never specifically been a Jantzen fan, but this season they have fabulous completely sewn up.


4. Mishka's Coastline Journey.
I first heard this one on No Shoes Radio
I had to download it immediately.
I so crave being at the ocean. But rather than walking in the sand, I am somewhat landlocked right now.
This song can take you on your own coastline journey.
You should download it too...

5. The Acapulco Cliff Hanger
While you're wearing your Vamp swimsuit, with or without coverup, or maybe you're in a maxi dress, listening to Mishka, you should probably have one of these in your hand too

Completes the picture.

6. Nobu Las Vegas

no words necessary Nobu-san

7. Atelier Cologne
The Orange Sanguine has Tonka Bean. Happy memories there.
The Blonds Bois has top notes of Tunisian Neroli and Pink Pepper, heart notes of Moroccan Orange Flower and incense, and beautiful base notes of blond woods, musks, and Haitian veviter.
Its my favorite.

Cologne with character

8. Ippolita Teardrop Earrings

I love them

9. Hot. Pink. Lips.

Say. No. More.

10. Hawaiian Tropic
Its that time of year. And it all starts with the smell of Hawaiian Tropic.
Thats where the best memories lie.
Not much SPF though...

Something Fun Popped Up At Chanel!

Nothing squeals summer quite as delightedly as
a little high octane, vibrant loving from Chanel!

Say bonjour to Les Pop Ups
Peter Philips' free spirited, bold and fun collection
inspired by idyllic seaside vistas.


Neon pink, sunny coral and turquoise are offset by
gorgeous bronzed skin.

Nails:
Mistral - soft pink (named after the wind that drives you crazy)
Nouvelle Vague - bold yet light turquoise
Riviera - intense pink

Lips:
Super - rose
Genial - coral (to. die. for.)

Lip Gloss:
Bikini Peach - soft pink

Aqualumiere:
Bondi - light copper
Bondi Beach - rose gold


This one is a limited edition, so get in there quickly!

Kiehls and the Rainforest Alliance

Here's something fun and new from Kiehls.
Acai Damage-Protecting Toning Mist
in specially designed
limited edition bottles.
100% of the proceeds up to $200 000 go to the Rainforest Alliance.

The bottles were designed by

Jeff Koons (artist)

Malia Jones (pro surfer)


and Julieanne Moore (actress)

The product is 100% organic.

I haven't actually used this one yet
but its all about improving the look of radiance and rejuvenation,
tightening pores
and clarifying and balancing skin texture.

I love the bottles.
Aren't they cool?
Which do you like best?
I like Malia's.

But that's just me.

Happy Hour!!

We haven't had a new drink recipe for a while,
so in the name of Friday night
and the weekend ahead of it
lets have a

Patron Grapefruit



The best drinks are super simple to make.

You need:
1 oz Patron Silver
1/4 ozPatron Citronge
Fresh grapefruit juice
Splash of club soda

Super simple
pour the Patron Silver and Patron Citronge over ice
fill with grapefruit juice
and a splash or two of club soda.

Easy and fabulous

XO

C

Scar Jo on V

Whoa!
The hotness of it!!Gorgeous Scarlett Johansson
on the cover of V magazine.
Shot by Inez van Lamsweerde
and Vinoodh Matadin.absolutely beautiful.

Bikini Fever

Just how hot is this??

This season Jantzen has the most fabulous swimwear.
Drawing inspiration from the 40's
this sexy bikini is part of
the Heritage Collection.

If you can find yourself a fence to lean on
and some spray sheen to glisten you up
(or the upcoming MAC bronzing oil)
you could lean around all day
looking just like this.

Tracie Martyn Super Skin Care

One of my absolute all time favorite skin care systems is the combination of
Tracie Martyn's amazing
Enzyme Exfoliant and Firming Serum
In fact, I'm re-ordering them today, which is what made me think of telling you about them.

So, first up is the Enzyme Exfoliant

Powerful enzymes, botanical skin lighteners and balanced fruit acids
gently resurface the skin, soften fine lines and wrinkles, minimize large pores
and safely lighten the complexion.
This product also calms the skin and reduces redness and sensitivity.
It contains a natural antibiotic action that prevents breakouts,
it oxygenates the skin, which really revitalizes it.
Cell renewal is stimulated and vital nutrients restore a youthful skin.
All in one magic little jar.

After the Enzyme Exfoliant is done, you applythe Firming Serum.



This one lifts and firms, strengthens the collagen network which improves elasticity,
does all kinds of repair work (you see instant results),
it hydrates the skin by minimizing water loss,
it contains a powerful antioxidant
It transforms and brightens the skin,
and improves the texture of the skin.

It actually does a bunch of other things too, but you get the picture.

And don't just take my word for it.
Here is a list of celebs who use and swear by these products too:
Madonna
Sandra Bullock
Kate Winslet
Renee Zellweger
Susan Sarandon
Liv Tyler
Rachel Weisz
Kelly Ripa
Sharon Osbourne
Julieanne Moore

not just for the ladies, Brad Pitt also loves them.
And things seem to have worked out quite well for him...

Apparently Sandie B likes to give the set as a gift.
My introduction to these fabu-products was as a gift too.
And I've never looked back.

www.traciemartyn.com


Enjoy

XO

C

How To Keep Your Wedding Makeup Gorgeous On A Hot Summer's Day

I have my own beauty column and write articles for several bridal magazines,
so I got to thinking that maybe we should devote some space here on the blog
to our lovely brideys.


The great thing about everything to do with bridal makeup, is that it all also applies to those of us who are not about to take the matrimonial plunge.

The same tricks that bring magic to a wedding makeup are sensational for any type of event.

So even if you are like me, and would prefer water boarding to another spin at holy matrimony,
don't dismiss the Bride's Corner postings - you'll learn some cool
and very useful tricks.


So here are 10 Tricks To Keep A Bride Looking Cool On A Hot Summer's Day

1. A great facial the week of the wedding will remove dead cells and debris from the surface of the skin, nourish and hydrate it, and leave you looking and feeling fabulous!

2. Drink TONS of water throughout the week leading up to the event.
It will help with bloating, stress and stress headaches, help alleviate under eye circles, and really help to keep your skin hydrated - one of the most important keys to a really beautiful complexion and gorgeous makeup.

3. Make sure your skin is well moisturized at least 20 minutes before makeup (if not more).
If your skin doesn't have enough moisture it will go after the moisture in your makeup, leaving it looking patchy, dry and separated.

4. Use a primer.
After your moisturizer has soaked all the way in, and before you apply foundation, apply a primer, taking special care to make sure your T Zone is well coated.
This will help makeup to adhere, stay even, and last much longer. It also helps you to stay a little more matte and a little less shiny for much longer.

5. Hire a professional makeup artist who uses airbrush makeup.This is the most technologically advanced, high performance makeup available. Why settle for anything less? It will last all day and night, won't melt or sweat, gives perfect, even coverage leaving you flawless with a super sheer finish.

6. Use a finishing spray to double down on your base staying flawless and set for hours on end!
My faves are Face Atelier's amazing Face Finish and Makeup Forever's Mist & Fix

7. Keep blotting papers or rice papers with you to lift away any surface oil or shine should it still make it through. If you keep adding powder to take away shine you'll just create an unnecessary layer of makeup that becomes increasingly visible.

8. Invest in a killer waterproof mascara and a sealing product to make eyeliner waterproof. Even if you're not the weepy type, the area around the lower lash line does tend to get extra moist, thus tempting your liner and mascara to go wandering or just disappear. I swear by Makeup Forever's Eye Seal.

9. Keep an eye on your lips. Bubbled up, gooey or broken down lipstick just look plain icky. If your lips look anything less than kissable, remove your lipstick/lip gloss with a folded kleenex, and reapply, making sure the inner line where your lips meet is clear, and doesn't have any build up.

10. When all else fails, smile! No matter how hot and humid it is, no matter how uncomfortable you are, nothing lights up the room quite like a dazzling, gorgeous smile!

More Nars Fabulosity

Here are two new products from one of my favorite lines, Nars.
Both of these items are on the "Must Have" list for spring/summer
you just need to choose your color.

First up, the new season's shades of The Multiple.



You've heard me talk about The Multiple a lot over the past year.
This product is a make up artist favorite
as it is so incredible versatile.
Cheeks, lips, eyes - wherever you want to use it.

Although these new shades look fierce, they are in fact very translucent.
Sheer buildable color that you can use to enhance other products,
like building a stain under a lipgloss,
or adding some dewy power to an existing blush.
And really quite lovely worn just on their own.

Perfect for hot summer days when you're not wearing a full makeup,
but need a little extra love in your cheeks,
or an extra something special on your lips.

The colors are:
Beverly Hills - red
Cadaques - fuschia
Turks & Caicos - orange

Completely brilliant.

The second product I want you to meet today is Nars new super sheer SPF lip treatment.




Now, there are tons of pretty lip glosses out there for a girl to choose from.
This one is a little different, because it really is a lip treatment, with color.
It is extremely sheer, with a very soft balm-like texture to it.
The most color is in the shades Angelique and Paloma.
My personal fave? Aurore.
Bianca, Greta and Lara are super pale, super sheer.

These lip treatments have fabulous ingredients such as wild mango butter, acai oil, cloudberries, and vitamin E, all hard at work
keep your lips soft and supple,
while the SPF 15 gives your kisser some relief from the sun's burning rays.

The new shades of The Multiple are available for a limited time only,
so jump on this one while you can.

Hope the sun's shining where you are,

XO

C

Helena Christenson Reebok Ad

So all I have to do is buy some of those Reeboks, and I'll look like that??

I wonder if she's cold?

Madonna's Undies

Second only to my love of high heels
is my love of gorgeous lingerie.
Which is why I follow Frou Frou Fashionista religiously.
I also follow them on twitter @fairefroufrou
The name alone suggests great things are ahead!

I did have a particularly witty post for you today,
but after seeing what they posted, it felt somewhat anit-climactic.
So I'm re-posting theirs.

Check out their blog
If you're in my old playground, Studio City, go see them.
(I think you can order their sensational goodies online too)
Follow their blog, and follow them on twitter.

But for now,
enjoy!

P.S. Madge: LOVE the makeup, love the hair, love the styling.
Perfection again...

Wednesday, May 5

Madonna Makes Her Debut

Falke tights, L'wren Scott dress, Hakaan shoes

Falke tights, Prada shoes

bra & panty, Madonna's own

Dolce & Gabbana corset

dress & corset Dolce & Gabbana
Interview Magazine, photographers Marcus Piggott & Mert Alas

Madonna makes her debut...on our blog, that is! The following are images from the May 2010 issue of Interview magazine. Of course we expected to see her wearing Dolce & Gabbana intimates, but we were surprised that she wore one of her personal lingerie sets (no brand mentioned) for one of the pictures (though it's does look kind of bra from Macy's). The fishnet stockings are from Falke, which is really what captured our attention in the first place. Truly, stockings can make all the difference in an editorial.
For the full range of images, click here.