Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Mask by Bliss - a quick review

There's nothing better than treating yourself to a great facial in a salon or spa, but if money's tight, you can still DIY and get great results...as long as you use a great product. One I really like is the Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Mask by Bliss $52.00 3.4 fl. oz. Rub this citrus-y smelling gel into damp skin and within seconds, a frothy mask sizzles like gentle pop rocks on your skin.

What is happening is that the mask is releasing oxygen and a significant form of vitamin C, time-released antioxidants, and a moisture into your skin. The result is a complexion that looks and feels brighter, fresher, and younger-looking. The product in a pump bottle takes only five minutes to work was inspired by Bliss Spa's most-famous facial, which gives skin the energy it needs for everyday metabolism, collagen synthesis, and detoxifying action.


My personal experience? I left the foam on a full five minutes (I got side-tracked because I was typing the beginning of this post as the mask went to work, so maybe it was a minute or two over). The foam was a bit distracting, but pleasant (it fizzed and made me feel like it was really working) and when I rinsed, my skin definitely looked brighter and felt energized. It really worked well. I love the Bliss Spa(s) and while this product isn't a pamperlingly fun as an in-person facial, it's still pleasant and effective. A little of this product goes a long way, so you'll still get spa-quality results, at home and save a bundle.

http://www.sephora.com/ Happy Halloween!

Halloween Costume & Makeup Ideas-Glamorous Mask

No time for a costume? Here's a great, last-minute idea!

TotalBeauty.com content:

Halloween Makeup Idea: Glamorous Mask

Recreate this dramatic, sexy mask in minutes -- it's the perfect last-minute costume

Instead of reaching for some awful costume-in-a-bag because you put off deciding what to be this Halloween, quickly transform your look by creating this painted on bat-shaped, glittery mask. Follow these step-by-step instructions courtesy of Genoa Norris, Resident Trainer at MAC Cosmetics and you'll have a costume in no time. Pair this mask with all black clothes and a sleek ponytail for a complete (and super simple!) look. See the look

Halloween Costume & Makeup Ideas-Twinkling Fairy

TotalBeauty.com content:

Halloween Makeup Idea: Twinkling Fairy

Recreate this Tinker Bell-friendly look and win "prettiest costume" this year

Who doesn't want to go crazy with glitter on Halloween -- it's really the only time you can get away with it. Transform yourself into a glittery fairy with these step-by-step instructions courtesy of Gregory Arlt, Director of Makeup Artistry for MAC cosmetics. Pair this girly makeup look with a set of wings and soft curls to complete the look. See the look

Halloween Costume & Makeup Ideas-Retro 60's Girl

TotalBeauty.com content:

Halloween Costume Idea: Retro '60s Girl

Channel Twiggy with extreme false lashes and a pale pout

We teamed up with Gregory Arlt, director of makeup artistry for MAC cosmetics, to show you how to create this classic Twiggy look. It's easy if you follow these step-by-step instructions. For a complete look, pair this dramatic makeup with a wide headband and '60s-style turtleneck dress. See the look

Pureology's Break the Silence Set Helps Protects Hair and Support Ovarian Cancer Awareness

Although The Advice Sisters have been blogging about products that support Breast Cancer Awareness, there are other diseases that deserve our support as well. According to the Department of Health Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, while all women are at risk for ovarian cancer, about 90% of women who get ovarian cancer are older than 40 years old, with the greatest number being aged 55 years or older. Although it accounts for only about 3% of cancers in women, it's deadly. It is the second most common gynecologic cancer, after uterine cancer and causes more deaths than any other gynecologic cancer in the U.S.




PureOlogy is supporting the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) http://www.ovarian.org/ with a donation of $25,000 in collaboration with their "Break The Silence" promotion, now through the end of the month in Salons only (so hurry)! Pure)logy staff attended 21 NOCC walks around the U.S sampling pre-packs of PureOlogy containing 2oz. bottles of HydrateShampoo, HydrateCondition and a teal wrist band.

If you didn't attend one of these walks but you'd like to support the cause, a great way to help do good and look good (or give a great holiday gift) is the purchase PureOlogy's beautifully-boxed set of must-have essentials called The Break The Silence Set $52.00. Inside a special box are PureOlogy's PureVolume Shampoo, 10.1 Oz. and PureVolume Condition, 8.5 Oz. and a very nice, tortoise-shell style brush with an ergonomic, glossy black handle and combo bristles featuring both bristle and ball-tips and a bristle pad in bright teal, the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition's signature color. Another featured of the set is the box, offering information about the signs and symptoms of Ovarian Cancer *the symptoms can be very vague, so many women just ignore them until the cancer is advanced.

The Shampoo and Conditioner are 100% vegan. The products are housed in feminine, pink bottles with slender necks and mauve flip tops -- but there's nothing "girly" about how well these work to volumize thin or fine hair, and to add softenss and shine while protecting color from fading. The sun's rays shine all year round, even if you're not baking at the beach. Using products that help protect color is a good investment that will save you time, money and effort!

All PureOlogy products are multi – taskers. They protect your color treated hair with Pureology's"Antifade" complex while providing lots of nurturing moisture. To find a salon that sells PureOlogy, or to learn more about the products, visit: http://www.pureology.com/

The Plaza Retail Collection & CFDA Support the Fashion Targets Breast Cancer initiative with exclusive shopping night

I have been burning the proverbial midnight oil putting the finishing touches on the Advice Sisters November/December Holiday What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion review column, up the first week in November at http://www.advicesisters.net/whatworkscol3.html (* please make a note and check it out in a few days). Alas, I missed an event that I really wanted to attend for a most worthy cause for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

On October 22nd, The Plaza Retail Collection and Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) collaborated for the first time to host a private shopping night previewing the most unique selection of luxury purveyors in New York City. The exclusive event provided a first glimpse of the collection for some of New York’s most influential fashion insiders as well as top industry professionals from around the world. Proceeds from the evening benefited the Fashion Targets Breast Cancer initiative, as will the proceeds from sales at The Plaza Retail Collection (through October 29th.)

Guests who attended included: Olivia Palermo, socialite and star of MTV’s new show The City, Katie Lee Joel, Fabiola Berasca, model Hanna Soukupova, designers Erin Fetherston and Maggie Norris, actress Anastasia Griffiths of Damages on FX, Dr. Lisa Airen, Meredith Melling Burke of Vogue, and The Bachelor Lorenzo Borghese

The Plaza Retail Collection is a carefully curated collection of boutiques culled from around the world, housed in The Plaza’s Grand Concourse, throughout the mezzanine and main lobby, The Plaza Retail Collection is embodies The Plaza's unique personality, through leading designers and tastemakers in the worlds of fashion, beauty, décor and cuisine.

Fashion Targets Breast Cancer www.fashiontargetsbreastcancer.org

is a philanthropic initiative of the Council of Fashion Designers of America/CFDA Foundation: http://www.cfda.com/, and is the fashion industry’s response to the impact of breast cancer. The campaign, with its iconic blue-on-blue bull’s-eye logo, involves the nation’s leading designers, retailers, media and models. Fashion Targets Breast Cancer has become the worldwide fashion community’s singular and most successful response to breast cancer.

Don't Tell Mamma-Barbetta-Fun for Tourists and Natives in NYC

On October 14th I attended a fun evening of Music and Comedy at Don't Tell Mama, a multi-function club/cabaret/bar at 343 West 46th Street in NYC. The evening, produced by Michael Martinez, was a showcase and variety show featuring Adam Kee, recording artsist Kristin Trotta, and singer/songwriter Andrea Dee. Comedian Matt Florio acted as an able host throughout the evening.



My favorite performer was the sultry songstress, Kristin Trotta, whose influences included Billie Holiday. The soulful singer looks pretty and sings with a throaty, urgency. She won over her audience with her sophisticated, soulful, songs. www.myspace.com/kristintrotta Also talented and popular with the audience was singer/songwriter Andrea Dee, whose intimate, personal songs borrow elements from pop, soul, and jazz. www.myspace.com/andreadee55


Adam Kee commanded the stage with a polished presence as an actor and singer who completed his M.F.A. in Acting in 2007 (Actors Studio Drama School/New School for Drama). Adam sang a number of songs from Stephen Sondheim. The best moment for me was after Adam asked my friend, telvision hostess Cognac Wellerlane, to turn off her video camera. She said: "I have a television show" to which Adam replied: "Then you can keep it on." But Ms. Wellerlane quickly got Adam to repeat: "you're watching Cognac's Corner Dot TV dahling") as well. You really had to be there to appreciate how she did this....it was pretty funny!

...and speaking of funny -- comedian Matt Florio did his best to keep the evening moving smoothly. Matt co-founded two of New Jersey's most successful stand up shows, "Stand Up Parmesan" and "Newark Comedy Show" He is currently in pre-production of a television show he created and recently co-founded Comedy Doctors . Inc. which produces stand up comedy shows to raise money for worthy charities. www.myspace.com/mattfloriocomedy

Don't Tell Mama is a fun place to spend an evening with friends whether you're a native New Yorker or just visintg. Check their schedule at http://www.donttellmamanyc.com/ 343 West 46th Street between 8th and 9th Aves in NYC just steps from Times Square.




After the performances, a group of us went to Barbetta Restaurant. Although Barbetta celebrated it's 100th Anniversary in 2006, I had never been there before. It is just a gorgeous place to dine! Founded in 1906 by Sebastiano Maioglio, Barbetta is now owned by his daughter, Laura Maioglio Barbetta is the oldest restaurant in New York that is still owned by the family that founded it. It has also the distinction of being the oldest Italian restaurant in New York, and the oldest restaurant in New York's Theatre District.
321 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036 http://www.barbettarestaurant.com/


Here's Cognac Wellerlane -- a picture of glamour with champagne in her hand!

Ron Caparella and Vladimir Ibadov "Count Vlad" of Vladi Couture) are enjoying a laugh, and a Piemontese appetizer. Trust me...the food is great, and the atmosphere is "regal."



...and speaking of regal.....Designer Count Vlad of Vladicouture designs gowns that make any woman feel like a queen. Vlad was a successful doctor in Russia but he had an artistic side and he always loved to sketch. He created couture gowns and furs for wealthy socialites in Russia, and when he came to the United States, he started designing specialty evening gowns for Russian-American women. His designs have been worn by beauty queens and celebrities. You can find him on Style Portfolios

Halloween Costume & Makeup Ideas-Sexy Vampire

TotalBeauty.com content:

Be a Sexy Vampire This Halloween

This ghoulish yet glam look is dramatic enough to win any costume contest

If you're looking for a costume that will truly transform your look while still making you look a little sexy, Vampira is the way to go. Follow these step-by-step instructions courtesy of Gregory Arlt, director of makeup artistry for MAC Cosmetics, to learn how to do this look. Complete this vampy makeup with a black wig and cape. See the look

Advice Sisters and Total Beauty Web Tour For This Week

Viva Woman tells you different ways to use mineral water to boost your beauty.

The Makeup Divas are giving away one pair of Anastasia Limited Edition Swarovski Pink Ribbon Precision Tweezers (retail:$33.00) So hurry and enter, contest closes October 25th.


Monique at Beauty Girl Musings gets a little help from her mom for the review of some new products in Dr. Obagi's new skincare line, ZO Skin Health! Click here for the story.


Beauty Anonymous reviews Paul & Joe Moisturizing Foundation Primer.

Roselyn from Makeup Makes Me Happy hangs out withhttp://www.

Roselyn from Makeup Makes Me Happy hangs out withR&B songstress Cassie, and gets the full scoop on all her beauty secrets. Click to read what she had to say!.

Discover from Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog how to fight back fat and muffin-top with the Unbelievabra!

The Jet Set Girls are giving away 3 tubes of Bobbi Brown collection!

Eileen over at MissWhoever You Are gushes about her new haircare routine that is simply DIVINE and has her hair looking fab.

Monique at Beauty Girl Musings gets a little help from her mom for the review of some new products in Dr. Obagi's new skincare line, ZO Skin Health! Click here for the story.

Fabulous Over Forty meets Carmindy and discusses her book Get Positively Beautiful.

Alison of the Advice Sisters reports on how girls rule at Sheckys Girls Night Out and Sheckys Beauty Night Out on the Advice Sisters Blog

Beauty Blogging Junkie has your Halloween faux lash needs covered with this lash round-up.
The girls over at Beauty in Real Life are having another Pink Giveaway. Click here for all the details.

Conair Power of Pink Products Power of Pink Ladies' Grooming System Supports Breast Cancer Research

For Breast Cancer Awareness Month Conair is using it's power to empower YOU to help stamp out this terrible disease (and look and feel good as you're doing it). For every purchase you make of specific "The Power Of Pink" products from Conair, $1.00 is donated to the Breast Cancer Foundation up to a minimum of $100,000 to help find a cure in our lifetime by funding clinical and genetic research, worldwide. Some of the pink-colored Conair "Power of Pink" product have special packaging to go with the girly, pink colored appliances within. For example, the Conair Power of Pink Ionic Styler, Power of Pink Personal Beauty Groomer, and the Conair Power Of Pink Instant Heat Rollers have breast cancer awareness tips called: "Guidelines for Optimum Breast Health" on the side of the package.

If you're looking for a realy super shaver that looks pretty and makes short work of a chore, consider the Power of Pink Ladies' Grooming System (model: LTGS40PCS) srp. $19.99. This recharchargeable, pink shaver has everything you need to stay on top of hair removal literally, from head to toe and can be used wet or dry. The soft pink 10-Piece Personal Beauty Groomer has attachments for bikini line, eyebrow touch-ups, and of course underarms and legs. Conair includes extras like oil (for the shaver, not your legs), a cleaning brush and a charger stand in the same shade of pink. it has a charging indicator light and it holds all of the attachments. There's also a separate cord to charge the shaver and a limited two-year warranty. TIP: the plug for the charger cord goes in the bottom of the charging stand instead of on the side or the back, where you might normally look to plug it in.

This makes a great gift for any woman and even if she already has a shaver, it's not pink and it's probably not as excellent as this one!

For more information, visit http://www.conair-store.com/ and http://www.bcrfcure.org/ or call toll-free 1.866.FIND.A.CURE. TIP: while you are on the Conair Store site, you can submit a review for a chance at a $1,000 prize!

For more information, visit http://www.conair-store.com/ and http://www.bcrfcure.org/ or call toll-free 1.866.FIND.A.CURE. TIP: while you are on the Conair Store site, you can submit a review for a chance at a $1,000 prize!

L'Oreal Paris Color Of Hope Helps Support Ovarian Cancer Research

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but it is also time to consider other charities that do great works to help stamp out diseases. Ovarian Cancer is another serious killer of women. You can help support Ovarian Cancer Research and get yourself a great deal in the bargain with two amazingly great items from L'Oreal Paris:







Sparkle, and help save lives, with the The L’Oréal Paris Hope Necklace $29.95, designed by 2008 Swarovski Award for Accessory Design recipient Philip Crangi (I met him during Fashion Week in the American Express Skybox --see photos). It features a double eternity ring design on a delicate sterling silver chain. Each ring is comprised of 21 channel set, 2mm brilliant cubic zirconias set in sterling silver. One ring is worn for remembrance and one ring is worn as a symbol of hope for the future. The Advice Sisters have reviewed previous collections and this one is better than ever. This necklace comes in an impressive, blue velvet presentation case that makes the necklace look even more precious. Crangi's pieces are sold in upscale stores like Barneys, and they're pricey. This necklace would be a bargain at it's normal retail price of $99.00, but is being offered for only $29.95 (plus $5.95 s&h) to support ongoing research to defeat the horrible disease of ovarian cancer. Net profits ($5.00 per sale) will benefit the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund. http://www.lorealcolorofhope.com/. Believe me, this necklace is a "must-have" for the holidays, and it will look even better in person than it does in the photo!

Makeup fans will love this Limited Edition L’Oréal Paris Color of Hope Cosmetics Bag $25.00 that also supports The Ovarian Cancer Research Fund (OCRF), L’Oréal’s 11-year charitable partner. $5.00 of the sale of this fantastic bag will be donated to the OCRF.

What's in the silvery, zippered, soft-sided bag? No surprise that there are great, key products from the L'Oreal Color of Hope Makeup Collection. I loved the two, trendy quartets of eye shadow emblazoned with "hope" in teal script across the front. One is "Joyous Spirit" featuring mauve tones from light to dark, and the other, "Peaceful Spirit" features a light green and medium moss green, and a matte and sparkling silver. The rest of the collection features the universally flattering shade of mauve (with vibrant teal packaging accents – the color symbolizing ovarian cancer awareness): a mauve "Color of Hope" lipstick, Mauve Color-Riche wanded lip gloss, amd limited edition color of hope Infallible Lip Color. Be trendy and help a great cause!

If you are just seeking a great lipstick to help the cause and color yourself beautiful, L’Oréal Paris will donate $2.00 to the OCRF from the purchase of each Color of Hope Colour Riche Lipcolour $8.95, available in three shades: A Color of Hope, A Lighter Shade of Hope, and A Deeper Shade of Hope. , These great looking, silky lipsticks have hydrating Omega-3 and conditioning Vitamin E that really help lips look smooth and soft (really important as dry Winter heat starts to make lips look parched). The collection, including the Colour Riche Lipcolours, will be available during the month of September at mass-market retailers nationwide.

The Color of Hope Cosmetics Bag, is available while supplies last at L’Oréal Paris retail stores. Please call 888.270.7743 to order and visit lorealcolorofhope.com for more information.

Learn more about Ovarian Cancer- A woman’s best line of defense against this terrible disease is to know there are identifiable signs and symptoms. L’Oréal Paris has developed http://www.lorealcolorofhope.com/ as a one-stop resource for information pertaining to ovarian cancer, including signs and symptoms. Visit, and you might save your own life, or the live of someone you love.

Estee Lauder Lipsticks and Lip Glosses--Girly and Great Gift-ables

If you're thinking about what to give special friends for the holidays, or you're seeking a little, "girly" splurge for yourself, think PINK...as in Estee Lauder's Pink Ribbon Collection Products. Two can't-go-wrong gift ideas are the Evelyn Lauder Lip Color Collection $22.00 and the Elizabeth Hurley High Gloss Lip Color Collection $16.00 Estee Lauder will be donating $500,000 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation this October, in connection with it's pink ribbon collection of products and Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

















The trio of gorgeous, pink-themed lipsticks come in a re-useable, hot pink zippered travel case. Inside,. three lipsticks in pink, metallic cases comes in three of Evelyn Lauder's favorite shades:- Pure Color Long Lasting Lipstick in Bali Rose (limited edition), Pure Color Long Lasting Lipstick in Candy and Estée Lauder Signature Hydra Lustre Lipstick in Rich Berry.

...and what rhymes with "girly?" Elizabeth Hurley, of course1 The Elizabeth Hurley High Gloss Lip Color Collection $16.00 gives you an impressive trio of pink-themed, "promo sized" lip glosses packaged in the same, hot pink zippered travel case. Give your lips a world of pinks and show your support of Breast Cancer Awareness.This exclusive set includes some of lip gloss-lover Elizabeth Hurley's favorite shades of High Gloss: Pink (limited edition); Rose, and Pearl give you sheer, shimmery, very feminine ways to shine!

...and Clinique also has a great special you will want for gifts!
The Great Lips, Great Cause Lipstick Set $16.50 is a limited edition exclusive to Sephora,. This great set includes a fantastic, Colour Surge Butter Shine Lipstick in limited-edition Ribbon Pink ( a soft, medium rose pink) housed in a silvery, mirrored lipstick case. $10.00 from each sale is contributed to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

PINK RIBBON COLLECTION: Wear a pink ribbon. Make a difference. Imagine a world without breast cancer. Your purchase of any product from the Pink Ribbon Collection will help Estée Lauder donate $500,000 to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation®. BCRF is dedicated to preventing breast cancer and finding a cure in our lifetime by funding clinical and translational research in North America. To learn more, call toll-free 1-866-FIND.A.CURE or visit http://www.bcrfcure.org/ Turn the world PINK and help save lives. To buy products visit your favorite fine makeup counter or http://www.esteelauder.com/

Conair Power of Pink Ceramic Straightener- Help Stamp out Breast Cancer

For Breast Cancer Awareness Month Conair is using it's power to empower YOU to help stamp out this terrible disease (and look and feel good as you're doing it). For every purchase you make of specific "The Power Of Pink" products from Conair, $1.00 is donated to the Breast Cancer Foundation up to a minimum of $100,000 to help find a cure in our lifetime by funding clinical and genetic research, worldwide.


Some of the pink-colored Conair "Power of Pink" product have special packaging to go with the girly, pink colored appliances within. For example, the Conair Power of Pink Ionic Styler, Power of Pink Personal Beauty Groomer, and the Conair Power Of Pink Instant Heat Rollers have breast cancer awareness tips called: "Guidelines for Optimum Breast Health" on the side of the package.

Every box has a special gold seal with the pink ribbon symbolizing Breast Cancer Awareness on it. A minimum of 85 cents of every dollar donated to the foundation goes directly to breast cancer research, The BCRF has given more than $175 million to scientists and researchers conducting innovative clinical and genetic research, worldwide.

If you're looking for a flat iron to get that sleek and shiny look throughout the holidays and beyond, or you want to give someone a special gift, consider the Power of Pink Ceramic Straightener Model #CS3B (srp. $19.99) Conair's flat irons and hair dryers are top-notch, and this pretty in pink flat iron is no exception. It is packed with features.

There are 1" ceramic plates that are the perfect all-around size to style most types and lengths of hair. The plates are technologically advanced to help prevent frizz and flyaways and add shine, while they glide through your hair. The plates also distribute heat evenly for silky smooth results that let you get the job done quickly with less heat directly applied to your hair. And, they heat up fast--in about 30 seconds. The uniform heat recovery system automatically restores plate temperatures to the optimum level for consistent styling results and...you have a choice of a whopping 30 heat setting, and dual voltage capability. A nice *black not pink swivel cord helps you move the flat iron around your head more easily and there's a cool tip and auto off for safety and a limited two year warranty.

For more information, visit http://www.conair-store.com/ and http://www.bcrfcure.org/ or call toll-free 1.866.FIND.A.CURE. TIP: while you are on the Conair Store site, you can submit a review for a chance at a $1,000 prize!

Thierry Mugler's Angel Branches Out A Magical Bodycare Collection

When Angel by Thierry Mugler was released in 1992, the revolutionary scent featured Chocolate, Vanilla, Caramel, Berries, Honey, and Bergamot with spicier base notes such as patchouli and sandalwood. The French designer's goal was to create a fragrance from his childhood memories: images and delicious smells wafting from fun fairs and children’s parties. Angel became a fragrance in a unique category: oriental gourmand. The bold scent is fairly significant and it lasts on your skin, hair and clothes for hours. It is one of those very distinctive fragrances that is so distinctive, you can immediate recognize it when it's on someone else.

Mugler followed with other variations of Angel, but the original is one of those modern classics that fans will never stop loving.



The designer has (finally!) just introduced Angel Les Parfum Corps for those who want to add different textures of the fragrance and layer it. The collection includes a shower gel, body exfoliant, body and hand cream, body lotion, body oil, hair mist and deodorant roll-on and spray. The collection is formulated to have the same intensity as the Angel Eau de Parfum, thanks to an exclusive, first-of-its-kind, patented technology called an "Intense Diffusion System," which reactivates the fragrance throughout the day (with changes in your body temperature, light, and even when your clothing rubs against your skin).



I didn't try all of the products in the line (they range from $25.00 for the hand cream and deodorant products, to $80.00 for the Perfuming Body Cream) but I did try three. The Perfuming Shower Gel $40.00 6.8 fl. oz. in a plastic bottle with silver spray diffuser top is an easy way to enjoy the scent. If you share a bathroom, don't be surprised if after you start using the Angel Perfuming Shower Gel, your family asks you to shower first because you will enjoy the blue gel that turns into a moisturizing foam on contact with water as it infuses your skin with Angel scent. But the perfumed steam you enjoy will linger for a while longer --enough for the next person to use the bathroom, to enjoy it! Follow with the equally great, Perfuming Body Oil $45.00 6.8 fl. oz. also in a plastic bottle with silver spray diffuser top. The oil is completely non-greasy, but it's quite moisturizing (especially if you apply it when you are still damp from a bath or shower). When you use this product to help deal with dry skin, it absorbs immediately, and all that's left is a lingering scent of ANGEL and softer, smoother skin. Add another layer of luxury, moisture and Angel scent with the Perfuming Body Cream $80.00 6.9 fl. oz. It comes in a gorgeous jar (description below) and a tiny, light blue plastic spatula to keep your hands clean, and germs out. The rich cream is really luxurious, a true treat for all of your senses that will banish dry skin in the most lovely way imaginable.





In truth, I liked these products even better than the actual Angel fragrance because you can apply them with a generous hand and not end up turning heads with too much of the scent. The scent does stick with you, but since it is spread over a wider and less concentrated area than when you apply a perfume, I think it is nicer. You want the scent to envelop you, not overwhelm everyone else.






One of the things I really love about the products is the stunning packaging. Some of the fragrance bottles can be refilled, saving the cost, and being eco-conscious. Each of the "Perfuming" products arrive in a silvery and "Angel" light blue, cardboard outer carton, and a photo of the product on the back. Inside, the safe-for-the-bath plastic bottles are also light blue with silver touches, in a modern, just-have-to-touch rendition of the iconic, Angel star-shaped bottle.


My favorite presentation is the Perfuming Body Cream. It arrives in a deco-inspired, light blue plastic jar infused with genuine silver sparkle. It also features a large "hubcab" domed top, and around the rim, a ring of plastic that looks like a shooting star. A final, designer touch is Thierry Mugler’s signature on the entire range of products, etched across a metallic curve. Another "first" is Mugler's commitment to authenticity. The new packaging boxes have a hologram that is so complicated it would be difficult to reproduce. This guarantees authenticity of the product from "knockoffs." Not only can it be identified by the consumer but it can be ‘read’ at point of sale using a special security scanner. Adding to the luxury element is the the Thierry Mugler Circle, launched by Theirry Mugler when he launched Angel. A small card slipped into each box (printed on the top of the outer packaging for the Perfuming products) invites the bearer to join the brand’s inner circle with access to new launches, to the designer’s virtual world, and to open communication with the brand and a blog dedicated to Angel fragrance fans.



It goes without saying that any of these products, including the Angel fragrance, makes a very special and romantic gift.





ANGEL Les Parfums Corps line now at Nordstrom and will be offered at all other stores, mid-October.

Save Your Skin and Help Stamp Out Breast Cancer - Estee Lauder Products, Produce Results

All month so far I've been highlighting products from various company who are dedicated to helping support Breast Cancer Research and Awarenss. Estee Lauder is donating over $500,000 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation from sales of it's pink ribbon producs, and it's affiliated companies are also donating money to that cause. I haven't posted a review of every single one of the products that are involved, but here are a bunch you'll want to take advantage of for yourself, or as great gifts for the holidays. If you have been thinking of purchasing some of these products, now is the best time. You will be helping others and the fight against breast cancer, too! You will find these at good cosmetics counters and online.

*most of these have been reviewed in the Advice Sisters What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion review columns in the past or in the current what works column!

Estee Lauder Perfectionsist CP+ Wrinkle Lifting Serum $80.00 (Estee Lauder will donate $500,000 in connection with sales of it's pink ribbon collection --products in a pink sleeve for Breast Cancer Awarenss Month-- to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation)

Darphin Predermine Wrinkle Corrective Serum ($205; $20 of each sale donated) http://www.darphin.com/

La Mer Creme de La Mer ($220-$1,350; $30,000 will be donated) http://www.lamer.com/

Lab Series Skincare for Men Daily Moisture Lotion ($37.50; $10,000 will be donated) http://www.labseries.com/

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion *comes with a really cute pink enamel breast cancer ribbon key chain, too! ( $35.00 $10 per bottle will be donated) http://www.clinique.com/

Prescriptives Super Line Preventor Xtreme Lifting Concentrate $38.00 and Super Line Preventor Xtreme $76.00 ($30,000 will be donated in connection with sales of these items) http://www.prescriptives.com/

Origns Peace of Mind On-The-Spot Relief $10.00 (Origins will donate $35,00 in connection with North American sales of this product). http://www.origins.com/

for more information visit www.bcfcure.org or call 1-866-FIND-A-CURE

Ojon Revitalizing Mist is a leave-in hair conditioner that detangles, refreshes and helps you with your style. ($26; 20% will be donated up to $35,000) at Nordstrom, Sephora, and Ultra stores

For more than 170 yearas, C.O. Bigelow has been making excellent skincare products. For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, C.O. Bigelow through Bath and Bodyworks has joined forces with breast cancer survivor and author, Marisa Acocella Marchetto (author of the graphic novel “Cancer Vixen: A True Story” ) to create a special, limited edition Cancer Vixen Collection $29.50. C.O. Bigelow will donate $250,000 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

The Cancer Vixen Collection features an eye-catching, hot pink cardboard "suitcase" with hot pink gross grain ribbon "handle." It's decorated with Acocella Marchetto's adorable, comic-book style illustrations, and the C.O. Bigelow products inside are all colored hot pink as well. The kit includes the Lemon Cream Body Wash 1.7 fl. oz, and a jar of Lemon Body Cream 1.7 oz (with 4.5% lemon oil extracts, these smell exactly like yummy lemon drops--honest!), a tingly, soothing, silky, pearly, minty Mentha Lip Tint in Pink Mint, an invigorating and reviving Mentha Foot - Tingling Foot Cream 2 fl. oz (with 2.25% peppermint oil and aloe, to keep your feet from feeling tired), and a tart and fruity smelling Dr. Hiosous Quince Hand Lotion 2 0z. -- all for $29.50!



This kit would be so perfect for someone you know who is a cancer survivor, or going through the healing process. It's also perfect for anyone who is a care-giver to a patient (care-givers need support and nurturing, too). Of course, the products are excellent "just because" and for travel. The hot-pink tubes and great scents, (not to mention the easily absorbed, moisturizing products) are simply fun to use for yourself.





*Tip: if you hurry to the Bath and Bodyworks web site there's a "buy one get one" going on now.

Can't get enough of this good stuff? You can purchase these products separately:

Mentha Lip Tint in Pink Mint $7.50 *this is one of my absolutely favorite lip balms/glosses in a slant tip squeeze tube. this product is the exact same thing as the Pink Mint colored lip tint BBW has always carried. Your lips will feel energized and the mint helps freshen your breath --soft lips, fresh breath--it's a must have all year long! You can't go wrong buying these as stocking stuffers now for all the "girls" at holiday time.







Village Perfumer Wild Berry Body Cleanser $12.00; Village Perfumer Wild Berry Body Lotion $14.00; Village Perfumer Wild Berry Hand Wash $12. 00 These are pretty to look at, and so "girly," too!



I haven't read it, but the book that was the inspiration for these products, but Cancer Vixen: A True Story (Hardcover) by Marissa Marchetto is her true life story about what happens when a "shoe-crazy, lipstick-obsessed, wine-swilling, pasta-slurping, fashion-fanatic, single-forever, about-to-get-married big-city girl cartoonist with a fabulous life finds . . . a lump in her breast." Author Marchetto had everything going for her when breast cancer decided to crash the party. But rather than let cancer define her, she redefined–and designed–cancer in this true story, describing the realities of breast cancer, chemotherapy drugs and radiation. Marchetto is donating a percentage of the proceeds from this book to The Cancer Vixen Fund and The Breast Cancer Research Foundation® Marisa established The Cancer Vixen Fund at St. Vincent's Comprehensive Cancer Center to help women who are uninsured receive the best breast care.

The "Cancer Vixen" C.O. Bigelow products and the book, are all available at Bath and Body Works Stores or www.bathandbodyworks.com --but hurry! They're limited edition!
For more information about the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, visit www.bcrfcure.org

Girls Rule at Sheckys Girls Night Out

Last week, I attended a truly fun event: Sheckys Beauty Night Out , a just-for-the-ladies bonding experience featuring "happy hour" mixed with the excitement and good discounts of a sample sale, plus better than Fashion Week-style goodie bags.

Girls rule at Sheckys Girls Night Out events. Even the men's rooms are turned into ladies rooms for these events and, in a nice turn of expectations, really cute and polite men serve free drinks from beer, to martinis.

This week Sheckys held one of it's equally fantastic, Girls Night Out events, at the Puck Building in Soho. When I got there half an hour early, there was already a line of women eager to get into the building. Most of the women I talked to had been to several Sheckys events prior to this one and they know it's great to get there early before it gets crowded.

Once inside, Sheckys-goers are greeted by four rooms (three on the ground floor and one on the 7th floor) simply chock-full of things to try and to buy.

The Girls Night Out focuses on accessories such as jewelry

and handbags, hats, and other accessories all at big discounts off retail. There are so many things to buy, hmmmmmm!

....there are also plenty of boutique-y clothes (I loved these T-shirts with studs and crystals).....

...and makeup, of course. Here I'm posting with the very charming Christopher Drummond. He is a makeup artist who has just launched his own, Christopher Drummond, line of cosmetics and skin care. His patent pending cosmetic products have been used on models and celebrities, and contain all natural, organic-based and vegan ingredients. The Advice Sisters will be reviewing these products in an upcoming What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion review column!

A clueless man asked me why anyone would pay money to spend money, but it's more than just free drinks and discount shopping. It's a fun night out with your friends, and there are plenty of other things to do besides shop! For example:

Get a manicure.....

Check out the latest Nintendo games while you rest your feet in a lounge-type setting...

...enjoy a beer tasting to see how different beers go with different types of food....

...have a photographer take your photo with your friends on Shecky's own, red carpet!

...and then there's the famous gift bags. Sheckys Girls Night Out admission is just $10.00. It's $30.00 with the Deluxe Goodie Bag, but you get a logo gift bag full of full sized, brand name goodies worth more than the cost of admission. Last night's bag had three huge Lindt Chocolate bars, two BORBA Skin Balance Waters, a full-sized tube of Crest, samples sizes of the newest Dove go fresh products, nutraceutical samples, full-sized Aveeno Bath and Body products, a women's razor, and much, much more. This woman in my photo was holding her friend's bags....and these bags are fairly heavy so she was definitely being a good friend!

If you think you'd like to attend a girl's night out, they are not just held in NYC. Look for events in Boston, Atlanta, San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, Houston, Dallas, Las Vegas, Washington DC, Philadelphia, Charlotte, Chicago, and Denver. Visit www.sheckysgirlsnightout.com for more information

Conair Power of Pink Hot Set Rollers Give Girls, Curls...and help stamp out breast cancer

Conair is using it's "power" to empower you to help them stamp out this Breast Cancer. The Advice Sisters know that you want to help, too, but you also want to look and feel great as you're doing it. For every purchase you make of specific "The Power Of Pink" products from Conair, $1.00 is donated to the Breast Cancer Foundation up to a minimum of $100,000 to help find a cure in our lifetime by funding clinical and genetic research, worldwide. these products, some with special packaging and breast cancer awareness tips, help fund researchers and scientists around the world, working hard to find new and innovative ways to cure this terrible disease. Every box has a special gold seal with the pink ribbon symbolizing Breast Cancer Awareness on it. A minimum of 85 cents of every dollar donated to the foundation goes directly to breast cancer research, The BCRF has given more than $175 million to scientists and researchers conducting innovative clinical and genetic research, worldwide.


If you're looking for a great holiday gift, or need a set of rollers for party-perfect curls and waves, and you want one that looks pretty and works beautifully, consider the Power of Pink Instant Heat Ionic Rollers (srp. $19.99). This set of a dozen hot set rollers (8 large, 4 medium) have a power strip that grips hair for a fast and secure and even set. The rollers come in a soft-sided, pink zippered pouch that is great for travel and holds the rollers even when they're heating up (which only takes an amazingly fast, 90 seconds). The rollers have ionic technology that helps promote shiny, healthy hair. You get clips and a separate power cord. There are some days you simply need to look curly, not straight. This amazingly affordable set will do your bidding and help you do a good thing for others, too. You can help Conair and other companies around the world to finally stamp out this horrible disease that claims so many lives each year. The Advice Sisters love this quote from Babe Rizzuto, Conair Corporation: "True beauty comes from within, but gorgeous hair can't hurt"

For more Power of Pink products by Conair®, visit the Conair® Power of Pink collection website and learn more about breast cancer awareness at http://www.bcrfcure.org/ or call toll-free 1.866.FIND.A.CURE.

Calvin Klein's Seductive Comfort Bra Collection - A Review

Not long ago the Advice Sisters blogged about Calvin Klein's sensational, new fragrance, Secret Obsession and how spokesperson, sultry actress Eva Mendez's video was too racy for the networks to put on the air. Ms. Mendes is also the face of Calvin Klein's latest collection of bras and panties, called: Seductive Comfort.

Eva Mendes is the also the face of Calvin Klein's newest underwear line, Seductive Comfort, featuring a T-Shirt Bra, an Underwire Bra, and a Customized Lift Bra.

What makes the line unique is that it caters to curvy or fuller-figured women with a wide range of sizes from 30 (nearly impossible to find) to 38, A-DD.

According to the Bob Mazzoli, Chief Creative Officer, Calvin Klein Underwear, and Kathy Linehan, Vice-President of Merchandising for Calvin Klein Underwear, 75% of women shopping for a new bra look for comfort before anything else. That's why these Seductive Comfort bras are 25% spandex with microfiber and plush straps, and feature a cushioned panel for the hook and eye in the back. Additionally, the lace trim is padded on both sides so it never touches or scratches the skin. I can't quite remember whether there are 30 or 50 different components that go into a bra, but there are certainly a lot of them. And, bra designers/engineers take their jobs very seriously --especially if they are working for a fashion leader like Calvin Klein. The company spent two years perfecting prototypes of each of the three bras, and they used real models to fit them (most companies just mathematically increase or decrease the proportions without using real women to test them out). One innovation is in the the Customized Lift Bra. The amount of padding decreases as the cup size increases so those who need more oomph, get it, and those who don't need any "help" still get a bit of appropriate padding to get the desired lift.

Another important design element is that the bra straps get wider as the cup size increases. Ask anyone who is well endowed. It's a curse as well as a blessing. Bra straps dig into their shoulders and can cause serious discomfort.

No matter what your size or what style you choose, each bra retails for $44.00....reasonable for a luxurious bra these days. There's also a Seductive Comfort Collection coordinating hipster panty for $28.00 (I took a quick look at it although I didn't test-drive one. The panty is simple and pretty but not too sexy, too sheer or too low).

All the bras come in black, dune, ivory, nightshade and smoke tried all three bras (sometimes I really love my job!) and here's my breakdown of their attributes:

Seductive Comfort Customized Lift Bra: This was extremely comfortable for a "push up" bra. Although there is lift, it's not ridiculous. I found that "the girls" were lifted into exactly the right place, and in a pleasing shape. The front dips low enough so it didn't show through, but wasn't so low I'd fall out of it. Usually, I find myself tugging at a push-up like it's a vice within a few hours, but this bra was so comfortable I didn't even notice I had it on for hours. The lace trim looks quietly sexy.


Seductive Comfort T-Shirt Bra: Without getting too personal, a T-shirt bra is always my favorite, as I really like a smooth, no-show look under clothing. But unlike many T-shirt bras, this one not only looks smooth, it won't flatten you out into an unflattering, pillow shape.

Seductive Comfort Underwire Bra: for full-figured women, an underwire is a must-have in most situation, but an underwire can really poke, chafe and irritate you if it doesn't fit right. This bra has nicely shaped cups and soft, double-lined cups so there's no "show through."

These may be tough economic times, but a good bra can make every day just a little nicer. And, if you can't afford a designer dress, you can still get a Calvin Klein bra and feel just a bit decadent!

All Calvin Klein Underwear products are available on

www.cku.com

. Please log on to the web site for more information.

The Advice Sisters Have A Winner - Total Beauty Total Cure Redpoint Cosmetics Give-Away

We have a winner!


kagey10 is the winner of yesterday's Advice Sisters redpoint cosmetics give-away! Kagey10 will win a collection of redpoint cosmetics worth over $269!

Thank you to everyone who entered and took the time to learn something about breast cancer prevention.

Kagey wrote: "1,990 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008, usually in there 60's and 70's.70% of women have NO family history.2nd highest in cancer deaths among women after lung cancer.scary isn't it?thanks for the chance at the goodies!"

If you entered but didn't win, there are still plenty of other give-aways --one each day during the month of October, thanks to Total Beauty Bloggers. For details on more daily giveaways, please visit Total Beauty's blogs we love page.


About Total Beauty, Total Cure: We are a group of volunteer beauty bloggers dedicated to increasing awareness about the importance of prevention and early detection, and arming women with the knowledge and resources to bring us one step closer to a world without breast cancer.

To make a donation to the Breast Cancer Research Fund, visit http://www.bcrfcure.org/ or click here.For information, resources, and support programs, visit the American Cancer Society at http://www.cancer.org/


I posted this too late for Thursday's give-ways, but Friday's give-aways are up now:


win luxe, Elemis Skin care from All About the Pretty. http://tinyurl.com/6n3vqs

and win Stila cosmetics via Jolie Nadine- Good Luck http://tinyurl.com/3mnnex

Redpoint Cosmetics Give-Away Worth over $269 TODAY for Breast Cancer Awareness

redpoint Cosmetics give-away worth over $269.00!

Today, as part of the

total beauty, total cure initiative, redpoint Cosmetics has generously donated a grouping of some of their most popular products. The total retain value is $269.50!!

You can only enter to win this amazing prize today, Wednesday, October 15th from 3:00 a.m. until tomorrow, 3:00 a.m. , on October 16th.

HOW TO ENTER: Enter a comment with your name and email address *use anti-spam format if you wish *e.g. advicsis....@yahoo dot com so we can contact you if you're the winner, along with a comment, personal story, or a fact you've learned about breast cancer (visit: total cure myspace or total cure facebook pages).

The winner will receive all of the following items:

Airbrush Effects Blushwhip



Professional Brush collection



Megalash Mascara


Stayput Eyeliner


Smooth & Remove Airbrush Pencil


NOC-Out Cover-up

Firm & Glow Complete Color Compact

- Total Retail Value : $269.50

About redpoint Cosmetics. redpoint is more than makeup. It’s a revolutionary line of color cosmetics infused with breakthrough anti-aging and skin transforming complexes, to make you look and feel better than you ever have. Every redpoint product is designed to nourish and restore the skin with scientifically proven ingredients that help to combat common skin problems and signs of aging. Formulations are talc-free, hypoallergenic, mineral-oil free, and tested for sensitive skin, but they're also long-wearing, smudge-resistant, sweat-resistant, water-resistant, non-caking & non-flaking. The company offers contemporary shades that enhance any skin tone to create naturally beautiful looks – without ever looking overly made-up. For more information about redpoint cosmetics visit: http://www.redpointbeauty.com/

About Total Beauty, Total Cure: We are a group of volunteer beauty bloggers dedicated to increasing awareness about the importance of prevention and early detection, and arming women with the knowledge and resources to bring us one step closer to a world without breast cancer. This unique collaboration of beauty bloggers, beauty brands and Total Beauty is one to show a united voice of strength and hope that, someday soon, we will close in on a cure.Breast cancer, your days are numbered...

To make a donation to the Breast Cancer Research Fund, visit http://www.bcrfcure.org/ or click here.


For information, resources, and support programs, visit the American Cancer Society at http://www.cancer.org/.

For details on more daily giveaways, please visit Total Beauty's blogs we love page.

Paris Hilton's Fairy Dust Fragrance --A Review

Paris Hilton has been portrayed as many things (some complimentary, some not). In her latest incarnation, the celebutante is portrayed as a Fairy, complete with wings for her fifth fragrance, launching this month. Fairy Dust by Paris Hilton Eau de parfum $55.00 3.4 fl. oz, $45.00 1.7 fl. oz (Body Lotion $28.00) by Parlux Fragrances is a modern, feminine floral scent developed by perfumer Cecile Krakower at Mane. It has top notes including pink peony and orange blossom, and a sparkling prosecco accord. The heart reminds me of the softer side of the pretty heiress: gardenia and water lily, and a peach nectar. The bottom notes subdue the "girly" feel, however, with vanilla creme, cashmere musk, and a woody, sueded patchouli.

Perhaps Hilton's little dog, Tinkerbell, was this season's inspiration for the fragrance. Ms. Hilton herself was the inspiration for the delicate fairy on the bottle. She looks like Disney's Tinkerbell, a slender sprite with wings and a wand and she appears to float in the clear glass in the nearly heart-shaped bottle. The only touch of color against the clear glass is the metallic, turquoise spray diffuser, covered by a large, faceted, clear and frosted "crystal" plastic cap that highlights the touch of blue. I love the way this bottle feels smooth and special in my hand when I pick it up.

And the perfectly clear fragrance inside is special, too. It's a light, slightly fruity, softly feminine floral that has a touch of youthful sweetness. I still think Paris Hilton reveals that innocent side of herself infrequently, but it's still a part of her. Celebrities drive customers to the store in droves, and Paris Hilton can still inspire her fans to purchase just about anything. This new fragrance, Fairy Dust, should be judged on it's own merits for the scent, not the woman. Fairy Dust is a girly, fantasy fragrance that will satisfy--and it's going to be a "must-have" for fragrance collectors.

Find Fairy Dust at by Paris Hilton at department stores nationwide

Alison Blackman Interviews LuLu Cooper from Creative Nail Design Bckstage at the Omnia Luo Show

I was fortunate to have a video crew with me backstage at a few shows during Fashion Week. Videos are a new thing for the Advice Sisters, and it takes a while for them to be edited. I interviewed Nadine Luke for M.A.C. Cosmetics, and Heather Packer who did the hair for Cutler, and also the talented designer, Zheng Luo, but the video interview I did with Nail stylist LuLu Cooper for Creative Nail Design, backstage at the Omnia Luo Runway Show. wasn't ready in time to put it in the original post.

I hope you enjoy this final interview from fashion week. It also includes a piece of the Omnia Luo Runway show...enjoy!

The color used for the Omnia Luo show was "Iced Capuccino," a gorgeous metallic brown. In my video, LuLu says she has a nail from the Gottex runway show on her hand. You can't really see it in the video, but the nails for Gottex were gilded with gold leaf!

the Advice Sisters entire, daily Spring 09 Fashion Week Advice Sisters coverage can be found at: http://www.advicesisters.net/advicesisters.net/2008_09_01_advicesistersblogarchive

Estee Lauder Fragrances Help Fight Breast Cancer!

Estee Lauder has a number of exceptional fragrances for women and for men. During October, for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the company fancies up their fragrances with special packaging and limited edition items. Estee Lauder will donate $500,000 in connection with the sales of it’s Pink Ribbon Collection to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation

Estee Lauder Beautiful Eau de Parfum spray 2.5 fl. oz $63.50 is a much-loved floral Top Notes featuring tolp notes of rose, mandarin, lily mandarin and tuberose, a heart of orange flower, muguet, jasmine and ylang-ylang, and base notes of sandalwood and vetiver. It's a classic floral that is not too sweet, not too "avant-garde." Estee Lauder will donate $500,000 in connection with the sales of it's pink ribbon collection to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. http://www.esteelauder.com/

Jo Malone Red Roses Cologne $50.00 1 fl. oz. is blended from seven different types of roses from around the world. It has a heart of crushed violet leaves and a hint of lemon to keep the feeling light and fresh, not "grandma." The scent of roses will follow you around all day! Jo Malone will donate $15,000 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation in conjunction with the sale of Red Roses Cologne and Bath Oil http://www.jomalone.com/

Donna Karan's Limited Edition Cashmere Mist Eau de Toilette Spray $58.00 1.7 fl. oz is a mixture of soft florals, amber and woods. It actually features Moroccan jasmine, lily of the valley and bergamot, warmed with Sandalwood for a slightly sweet, slightly scent. Donna Karan Cosmetics will make a donation of $15,000 in connection with the sale of this limited edition fragrance to the Breast Cancer research foundation. http://www.donnakaranbeauty.com/

Sean Jean's Unforgiveable Woman Eau De Toilette Spray $55.00 2.5 fl. oz is a mix of fruity floral with sensual base notes. Top notes are Orange, Bergamot, Neroli, Grapefruit, Cassis, Apple, Orange Flower, Pina Colada, Cucumber. The romantic, floral heart is Violet, Jasmine, Muguet, Freesia, Cyclamen. But the sexy base notes make this more "sensual" and less girly: Coco de Mer, Vanilla, Amber, Tonka, Cedar, Sandalwood, Oakmoss, Patchouli, Vetiver, Iris. It's quite delicious and seductive. Sean John Fragrances will donate $10,000 in connection with combined sales of Unforgivable eau de Toilette Spray and Unforgivable Eau de Toilette Spray (for Men) to the Breast Cancers Research Foundation. http://www.seanjohnfragrances.com/ Tommy Hilfiger's Dreaming Eau de Parfum Spray $60.00 3.4 fl. oz is a seriously pretty scent that particularly great in warmer weather. It features peach, tuberose, freesia, white hibiscus, white woods and orris. The romantic, feminine scent is a perfect everyday scent for women of all ages. Tommy Hilfiger will make a donation of $15,000 in connection of the combined sales of the dreaming Tommy Hilfiger Eau de Parfum Spray , and the Hilfiger Eau de Toilette Cologne Spray (for men - see the review of this fragrance in the upcoming Advice Sisters What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion Review Column for Holiday 2008 up the first week in November), to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. http://www.dreamingaboutyou.com/

Chewylou Designs "LIVE

Chewylou Designs is a line of shirts for men, women, children and perhaps, your prized pet, names after two special dogs: Chewbacca aka "Chewy" and Lexington aka "Lexi Lou." Shirts with inspirational words and ideas let you say how you feel.


A luxury Tee that is particularly special is the super-soft, 100% cotton, 'LIVE" T-Shirt for women $32.00 with the word 'LIVE" on the front, and "Love, Imagine, Value, Embrace " on the back. Alyssa Dinowitz created the shirt in honor of her mother who is fighting the disease for the third time. A portion of the proceeds support breast cancer research via the GreaterGood Network. A bright pink T with short sleeves is layered and sewn onto a white, long sleeved T, leaving a bit of white at the collar and him, and and white sleeves with delicately frayed hems. A delicate, light pink daisy with a tiny, sparkling crystal center, adds whimsy to one shoulder.



This would be the perfect gift for any woman battling (or surviving) a challenge, or wanting more out of life (the holidays are coming). Other positive inspiration T's include: Grace, Peace, Breathe, Dream, Ego? Calm, Loved, Green, Hope and Faith.



Visit: Chewylou Designs: http://www.chewyloudesigns.com/

Conair Power of Pink Products Ionic Hair Styler- Great Gift Suggestion

Conair grooming and styling appliances are known for their quality and their power. For Breast Cancer Awareness Month Conair is using it's power to empower YOU to help stamp out this terrible disease. For every purchase you make of specific "The Power Of Pink" products from Conair, $1.00 is donated to the Breast Cancer Foundation up to help find a cure in our lifetime by funding clinical and genetic research, worldwide. A minimum of 85 cents of every dollar donated to the foundation goes directly to breast cancer research and awareness programs.

Some of the pink-colored Conair "Power of Pink" product have special packaging to go with the girly, pink colored appliances within. For example, the Conair Power of Pink Ionic Styler, Power of Pink Personal Beauty Groomer, and the Conair Power Of Pink Instant Heat Rollers have breast cancer awareness tips called: "Guidelines for Optimum Breast Health" on the side of the package. Every box has a special gold seal with the pink ribbon symbolizing Breast Cancer Awareness on it.

If you're looking for a new hair dryer for yourself, or want something special to consider for a holiday gift, now's the time to get the Conair Power of Pink Ionic Hair Styler.$19.99

A sturdy, pink-tinted hair dryer weighing just 2 lbs (that really helps reduce arm and hand fatigue) has effective, ionic technology that helps promote shiny, healthy hair and reduce frizz. Your hair will dry fast, too, with 1875 watts of power that you control with three heat/speed settings (low, medium and high), a removable filter (for easy cleaning), and a "cool shot" button to lock in your style. It comes with a concentrator attachment. I love the easy to grip handle and the long nozzle that makes it less tiring to hold it up to your head for long periods of time if you're doing a proper blow-out.

For more information, visit http://www.conair-store.com/ and http://www.bcrfcure.org/ or call toll-free 1.866.FIND.A.CURE. TIP: while you are on the Conair Store site, you can submit a review for a chance at a $1,000 prize!

Bumble and bumble Classic Hairspray Boosts Your Style

One of my all-time favorite hairsprays is the Bumble and bumble Classic Hairspray $17.00 4 os. and $20.00 20 oz , in it's eye-catching, pink spray can. But during Breast Cancer Awareness Month you can help keep your style in check, and help stamp out breast cancer, too. Bumble and bumble will donate $1.00 per can from the sale of this hairspray sold on www.bumbleandbumble.com and in it's two, NYC salons, during September and October, to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. You can spray this product and still run a comb through it, or use it with hot irons and other styling devices. A fine mist that won't dry out your hair or make it stiff still gives you great holding power (even in a downpour--trust me, I've been there) with your hair will still be "touchable." This one won raves!

Babyliss Mighty Minis Go Pink For Breast Cancer Awareness

Minis are mighty, especially when it comes to hair styling tools. And, when they're pink, they're even better as they support breast cancer initiatives. Babyliss Pro donates a portion of proceeds from the sale of their Breast Cancer Awareness "pink" products to the National Breast Cancer Foundation--just one more reason to buy these for you, and for holiday gifts.

The Babylisss Pink PRO Porcelain Ceramic Compact Hair Dryer(under $30.00) for example, has all of the "bells and whistles" of a full-sized dryer, yet it weighs just 0.97 lbs and has power of 1000 watts. A non-slip handle, concentrator nozzle and cool shot help to keep your style, while commercial grade porcelain ceramic generates far-infrared heat and negative ions, to reduce static and frizz. There are two heat settings (high and low) and a limited, 3-year warranty. Finally, the baby pink color makes styling just a bit more fun.

The Babybliss Pro Nano Titanium Straightening Iron (srp. under $50.00) is small enough to fit in your purse at just 6" in length and weighs less than my card case, but this mightily mini heats up to 430 degrees F. fast! Nano Titanium plates conduct heat to help style your hair fast and shorten the amount of time the heat has to touch your hair. Digital ionic technology emits negative ions to help keep your style straight and frizz-free. The iron has dual voltage so you can use it anywhere, and an on off switch easily identifiable on the side. If you have short hair or want to keep your bangs straight, a mini flat iron like this one is a must-have, as you can get close to your scalp in a way you can't do safely with a larger flat iron. It's a "must-have" for styling small pieces, for travel, for your desk at work and more!

Total Beauty Web Tour For This Week

The Advice Sisters have been busy getting up-close-and-personal with a variety of beauty and fashion products that help you look good, feel good, and DO good by purchasing items that are supporting breast cancer awareness and breast cancer research. Please visit this blog every day during October (and beyond, thank you) and see something new and exciting that will eventually help wipe this dreadful disease off the face of our universe!

IMPORTANT NEWS: The Advice Sisters are doing what they can to inform women about breast cancer and to support breast cancer research. The Advice Sisters will be giving away a collection of redpoint cosmetics worth over $260.00 on Wedneday, October 15th starting at 3:00 AM and ending 3:00 AM as part of the Total Beauty/Total Cure efforts. This is a one day contest, so please bookmark this blog, or Subcribe to My Feed in A Reader
of just come back to http://www.advicesisters.net/advicesistersblog.html and enter.

The redpoint cosmetics give-away is only on October 15th until 3:00 AM, so come back and enter then!

Now, here is what some of the Total Beauty Bloggers are up to this week:




Viva Woman shows you how she gets rid of her blackheads and whiteheads with simple home remedies.

See Fabulous Over Forty for a video interview with Isaac Mizrahi and his new book How to Have Style.

Beauty Anonymous reviews Alima's mineral loose powder eyeshadows.


Beckie of Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog reviews Carmindy's new book Get Positively Beautiful. Carmindy, TLC's makeup artist on What Not To Wear, is not just another pretty face who penned another pretty book.

Frappelattes shares her beauty must-have -- the eyelash curler -- as well as a guide on how to use an eyelash curler.

Beauty Tyrant explains why she's in love with the Corioliss flat iron, and with only 5 reasons she is totally smittened!

Beauty411 shares the Bobbi Brown Pink Ribbon Lip Collection with you. A beautiful way to support Breast Cancer Awareness month!


Vampires are so hot right now, but a copy paper white complexion isn't. Find out what Beauty Blogging Junkie is recommending to bring some "life" into your skin tone this fall.

Top 10 Makeup Products By Talking Makeup!

Monique at Beauty Girl Musings is having a giveaway! Find out how you can enter to win over $90 worth of beauty products!

Glossypink is loving this golden pink eyeshadow, and yours is just a drugstore-trip away!

The girls over at Beauty in Real Life are having another pink giveaway. They have 2 pairs of Anastasia Limited Edition Swarovski Pink Ribbon Precision Tweezers to giveaway. Click here for your chance to win.

Stop by Beauty Blvd. to find out how to keep your nails and hands looking beautiful this winter!


The Makeup Divas reviews Anastasia Brow Duality.

Alison of the Advice Sisters has posted her entire archive of fashion week with personal photos of backstage and the runway, and videos of Anna Sui, Omnia Luo, and Melanie Von Alexandria.

See The Beauty Alchemist for a look at Guerlain Holiday makeup 2008.

The Jet Set Girls try out Stila's new Paint Your Pout Red talking palette.

Every three minutes, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer. This staggering statistic resonated deeply with the members of the Total Beauty blog community, many of whom have been personally touched by the disease. So in the spirit of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Total Beauty blog community is hosting a month-long initiative that integrates breast cancer awareness, fundraising to benefit the Breast Cancer Research Fund and beauty giveaways to engage women in the quest for the cure.


Total Beauty, Total Cure is dedicated to increasing awareness about the importance of prevention and early detection, and arming women with the knowledge and resources to bring us one step closer to a world without breast cancer. This unique collaboration of beauty bloggers, beauty brands and Total Beauty is one to show a united voice of strength and hope that, someday soon, we will close in on a cure.


To make a donation to the Breast Cancer Research Fund, visit http://www.bcrfcure.org/ or click here. For information, resources, and support programs, visit the American Cancer Society at http://www.cancer.org/. For details on daily giveaways, please visit the blogs we love page.

TotalBeauty Readers Picks for Best Hair Shampoo

TotalBeauty.com content:

Readers' Picks for Best Hair Shampoo

TotalBeauty.com members of all hair types -- dry, curly, thin, you name it -- share their top product reviews

If you're still searching for a shampoo that won't make your hair feel dry, brittle and unhealthy, rest assured there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Check out this list of users' favorites, from higher-end brands like Pureology and Aveda to more affordable brands like Herbal Essences. We bet you'll find a formula that works so well you'll never want to stop using it. Best of

Tattoo? Acne? Rosacea? Flaws? Banish Them With Cover FX

For most people, choosing a foundation can be daunting, but if you have acne, or a scar, or a tattoo, or any skin condition that is visible, choosing a foundation that can conceal without causing additional problems, can be a nightmare!



Cover FX is a company was designed by Lee Graff (a corrective foundation artist at the CosMedical Clinic at Toronto's Sunnybrook & Women's College Health Science Center who reminds me a bit of actress Linda Gray) in conjunction with Dr. Neil Shear, Chief of Dermatology at the Sunnybrook & Women's College Health Sciences Centre, and Chemical Engineer Jenny Frankel (the most gorgeous engineer you'll ever meet) after Lee couldn't find the types of products that could really help patients suffering emotional and physical pain from skin conditions.



The company has a variety of different concealing products that work for a variety of different types of skin and give matte, full, luminous, or natural coverage. In fact, there are more than 30 colors of the signature product, Cover FX (also acts as a fantastic concealer). Cover FX is the most opaque with the maximum coverage, used to conceal even hard to cover tattoos (apparently Angelina Jolie was covered with this during the filming of 'Mr. & Mrs. Smith"). It's used in Hollywood a great deal, and there are plenty of stars that swear by it.



There are three "PREP" products: Skin Prep FX, ClearPrep FX (new, matte and anti-acne) and Matte FAX (blotting power primer). There are five foundation/cover products: Cover DX (total coverage and spf 30), Natural FX (water based liquid SPF 15) , Powder FX (SPF 10), Skintint FX (spf 30 tinted moisturizer) and Mineral FX (pure minerals spf 15). The costs range from $32.00 for the Powder FX to $42.00 for the Cover FX and Skintint FX. All of the products have good-for-your-skin ingredients.



There's a translucent Setting Powder "Setting FX" and Finishing Touches such as Radiant FX (pearlized mineral highlight) a Bronzed FX (bronzer in a compact), Blushes, and a Lip Cover (plumper). The line has several brushes and a brush cleanser and an alcohol and fragrance-free Cleanser.



A color wheel helps you choose the right cover foundation, based on your basic coloring and offers you several options in terms of coverage based on your needs and skin type. In truth, I found the process of choosing the right color and the appropriate formula for my skin, a bit daunting. You can purchase these products online, but it's really to your advantage to go to a store where Cover is sold, and let a pro help you select just the right products. For example, I was told I was a C30 ("C" meaning "cool) although my skin is almost always categorized as warm. I never would have picked that color. But when the makeup artist dabbed the skin on my neck with the Natural FX Water Based Foundation, it blended right in. So who am I to argue? In summary, when you find the right one for your skin type and tone, it will cover flaws and not look obvious. TIP: For all of the FX products, a Cover FX Skin Prep Primer (in a pump bottle) helps keep the foundation smooth and fresh all day.







This may all seem a bit dizzying, but all you really need are three products, no matter what type of skin or coverage you are seeking: Prep (with Cover FX Skin Prep Primer), and then either Cover first with your foundation and Set, or Blot and then Cover. Here's a photo of one of the Coverage in a Kits from HSN showing three coordinated products.






Visit: http://www.coverfx.com/ or Sephora or Nordstrom online. Look for Coverage in a Kit products (dark, fair, medium-light and medium at HSN.

Living Proof NO-FRIZZ Keeps Frizz From Frazzling You!

The other day I was invited to the launch of a new type of haircare product called NO FRIZZ $24.00 4 oz, $14.00 2 oz. from Living Proof. This company is packed with promise, and peopled with partners that have imprssive experience and talent. For example, Dr. Robert Langer, one of the world's top biomedical scientists at MIT is part of Living Proof, and he has been awarded some of the most prestigious prizes in medicine. Together with Polaris Venture Partners (a venture capital firm with 25 years of experience in business development) Living Proof has gathered some of the best and brightest working on issues that annoy the average person to no end, even if they're not life threatening. We're talking about prolems. The first problem the company decided to tackle, luckily for frizzballs like me, is how to tame frizzy hair.

Like many visionary companies, Living Proof was founded simply after a conversation between a man and his hair stylist. The Living Proof team analyzed products currently used to tame frizz and realized that most of them used silicones and were pretty much tweaked formulas that were closely related. So they put the brightest and best people they could find, into a lab (Langer Labs), let them play around with ingredients.

It took about two years, but the result was NO FRIZZ -- a line of silicone-free, frizz-eliminating hair products with a new, molecule, PolyflouroEster that is enhanced/activated with heat styling. Traditional frizz fighters coat hair (leaving it heavy and greasy) but the unevenness of the coating allows moisture in, making frizz appear. The new molecule is smaller than the traditional frizz-fighting ingredients, and the it provides a thin, smooth coating that produces a barrier against frizz that is more effective, and also provides a more lightweight product.

Living Proof's mission is to "invent efficient formulas based on entirely new molecules and breakthrough technologies for results you can see from across the room." To prove this point, at the launch, a woman with perfectly long, straight, shiny hair that had been treated with one of the No Frizz products on one side and a traditional, silicone based anti-frizz product on the other, and then smoothed straight with a flat iron, "volunteered" (she works for the company) to sit with her back to us as another woman literally steamed her hair with humidity directly applied with a hand steamer. As the presentation continued, I watched the woman with the steamer assault the volunteer's hair for at least five minutes. The result? The side that had been treated with the traditional silicone looked "poufy" and textured, while the NO-FRIZZ side looked perfectly straight. We were in a theater with stadium seating and I could easily see the difference "from across the room."

But as someone with a lot of frizz frustration, I couldn't wait to try this product on myself at home. There are six different products for three different hair types: fine-medium; medium-thick; and thick-coarse in two different formulas: Straight Making, and Wave Defining (for those days when you want a more wavy or curly style that still looks controlled and frizz-free). As a beauty reviewer, I try so many different products, but I have my favorites that give me the results I desire. So I used my favorite shampoo and regular conditioner. After this, I decided to try the medium-thick product in a flip-top tube, wishing that all of these came in the pump bottle used only for the fine-medium products. But the products for thicker hair are also thicker in consistently, hence, a tube packaging works best. The tube encouraged me to use at least one, quarter-sized dollop of the product (2x or 3x the amount for longer hair). I gamely tried two dollops even though the label says: "Don't be afraid--you can't use too much."

I worked the product in my damp hair, and did my usual, fast blow-dry that generally leaves my hair poufy and the dry ends, frizzy. I didn't change my "technique" at all. My hair looked fairly sleek, even without a finishing touch from a flat iron. I decided to lightly spray some of the fine to medium solution on the sides of my layered style where the ends are damaged and always frizz up. Then I smoothed my hair again with a mini flat iron. TIP: you can work a dollop of NO FRIZZ into dry, damaged ends during the day for added moisture and conditioning.

As A beauty reviewer I try all sorts of products that promise great results, and not all of them deliver the goods equally well. But with the NO FRIZZ product, the results were better than I expected. My hair felt looked shiny and felt as if nothing was coating it at all --quite unlike the heavy, greasy feel that most anti-frizz products produce. In truth, my hair not only looked than usual, it looked better than it has ever looked outside of a professional blow-out....and I didn't even do a great job at styling!

And, at the launch presentation I attended, we were told that since the NO FRIZZ technology repels most other materials like water and oils, it actually repels dirt and particles, keeping your hair cleaner, longer. Since my hair looked straighter than usual, it also looked more vibrant. A good blow-out requires a lot of heat, so if you can reduce the amount of shampoos and stylings, you may actually save time, money and keep your hair healthier. Although it's not a scientific study, mine certainly seemed to stay looking nicer, longer. The day I did this test it was raining. My hair still did frizz...a bit...but nothing like it usually does. I didn't try the wave-producing product yet, but I am confident that curly styles will look shinier and smoother as well.

Given this result, and all of the benefits I've mentioned, I'm definitely a new fan of NO FRIZZ!

Give your friends a frizz-free new year by gifting them with NO FRIZZ. The products ares available now at http://www.livingproof.com/ and will be available in February 2009 at select Sephora stores and online, and at QVC and QVC.com

Quiz: Your Ideal Breast Cancer Early Detection Plan

TotalBeauty.com content:

Quiz: Your Ideal Breast Cancer Early Detection Plan

Answer these questions to access your risk and find out what precautions you should be taking

According to the National Cancer Institute it is estimated that 182,460 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008 and 40,480 of those women will die. In order to be part of the two and a half million women who survive, you need to know how at risk of breast cancer you are and take all necessary steps to make sure that if you do get breast cancer you catch it and treat it early. This quiz is your first step in the right direction. Take the quiz

Shiseido Pretty Pink Lip Gloss Supports Breast Cancer Awareness Month

It's October, and that means that it is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Many companies are giving back while giving you great products that help support a worthy cause.

This month, Shiseido will be giving back to CEW’s Cancer and Careers through the sale of Shiseido The Makeup Lip Gloss $20.50 in "Pretty Pink. For every lipgloss sold, Shiseido will donate $5 to Cosmetic Executive Women (CEW)’s Cancer and Careers. CEW Foundation's groundbreaking initiative, Cancer and Careers, is a unique resource that provides vital insights, information and inspiration for working women during and after cancer treatment. The Managing Through Cancer program provides practical guidance for employers, managers and human resource departments to help support their employees while maintaining a productive workplace.

The slim, wanded tube of silky gloss has a formula with "Hydro-Wrap Vitalizing DE" that hydrates lips with a smoothness you can really feel, and 3-D Power for natural depth and highlights to the sheer, shimmery pink color. This special gloss can be purchased online at Macy’s, Nordstrom and sephora.com . Buy a bunch now, and give them as stocking stuffers to special friends, come gift-giving time!

About Shiseido: Shiseido is the oldest and sixth largest cosmetics company in the world. Originating in 1872 as a Western-style pharmacy along the Ginza in Japan, Shiseido has distribution in over 70 countries, including 850 department and specialty stores in the U.S.

About CEW: CEW is a non-profit organization of over 4,000 professionals in the beauty, cosmetics, fragrance, and related industries. Its mission is to advance the professional growth and leadership of women via career development programs, networking opportunities, access to industry leaders and recognition of achievement. Headquartered in New York City, CEW also has associations in the United Kingdom and France. In addition to promoting and recognizing personal and corporate achievement in the beauty industry, CEW has also made a philanthropic commitment to an underserved audience of working women with cancer. Launched in 2001, CEW Foundation's Cancer and Careers program is on the forefront of addressing cancer as it relates to the world of work.

Aveda Limited Editon Breast Cancer Hand Relief - Lend a Helping Hand

Imagine a world without breast cancer. The Estee Lauder Companies, can. Every year, the company selects specific, popular products from their various lines, and creates a special "pink" version to support Breast Cancer Awareness month. This year, there are more than 23 special edition products from lipsticks to bodycare to fragrance to choose from.

I will be reviewing many of these products throughout the month of October. But my first suggestion is the limited edition of Aveda Hand Relief $21.00 5 oz. tube, because by purchasing it, you will be lending a helping hand to help wipe out breast cancer. $4.00 from each sale of Aveda Breast Cancer Hand Relief will go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation to fund environmental research to help find a cure (maximum donatino $300,000). The cause is worthy, but so is the lotion that really helps soothe and health dry, chapped hands. Hydrating plant emollients, humectants, exfoliating fruit acids and anti-oxidants—including vitamins A and E, give your skin lots of "good stuff" while you "do good" for a great cause.

visit www.aveda.com or call 212-680-5844 for locations

Envision Beauty The Solution IS the Solution For Great Looking Skin

"Envision" means to conceive or see something within one's mind; to imagine something.

Envision Beauty was created by someone who has a truly global vision. Beautiful Kimberly Synderhas imagined many things, and made them come true in her own life. She is a world traveler, a model, an entrepreneur, and a raw foodist. She has accomplished a great many things in her life so far...things that most of us might never even consider. She traveled through over 50 countries across Australia, Asia, Africa, Europe and South America -- alone! She went deep water scuba diving, climbed mountains, hiked glaciers, climbed sand dunes in Mongolia and Namibia, and learned Reiki and yoga in India...just for starters. When Kimberly arrived back in the United States, she worked in the beauty business for one of the biggest beauty companies in the world.

But as she tells it, one of the things that Kimberly realized united women in all cultures, was the wish for...well, maybe not world peace, but definitely, great skin. She said that she created her company, Envision Beauty, and it's premier product, The Solution, because she was frustrated with her own skincare routine. "I was drowning my face in overpriced, underperforming 'luxury' products and my bathroom cabinet was starting to look like my own personal drug store! A former employee of one of the world’s largest beauty companies, I was also disappointed by the rampant use of chemical fillers and preservatives in even high-end lines. I longed for a better way to take care of my skin. "

Her solution is The Solution. It's one, multi-tasking product in a pump bottle that literally provides all of the benefits of the multiple products you are probably using now to nourish your skin, and can even be used as a makeup primer. It will streamline your skincare routine with a formula that is seriously powerful and effective, but it is It is free of parabens, ethyl alcohols, and many other synthetics commonly used by the skincare industry...even safe enough for women who are pregnant.

Kimberly is proud of the way The Solution blends nature and science, blending cutting-edge technology with Mother Nature's best ingredients to create an effective anti-aging product. It is free of parabens, ethyl alcohols, and many other synthetics commonly used by the skincare industry. Some of the key ingredients that nurture, heal, and encourage youthful skin include: goji berry, grapeseed, centell asiatica, and acai and Vitamins A, B5, C and E. There are also some powerful, cutting edge ingredients as well: Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) is one of the most powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents known, and it helps skin appear more radiant and reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, puffiness and pore size. Hyaluronic Acid is a great moisturizer that helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while improving smoothness, tone and firmness. DMAE rapidly firms and smooths skin while reducing fine lines. NaPCA is the most vital moisturizer naturally occurring in the skin, helping it appear firm and most.

Put these all together and you get The Solution. I was a bit dubious that one product, especially one that is easy absorbed without any residue and packs such a powerful punch, could be lightweight and really make a difference in my skin. As a beauty reviewer, it is nearly impossible for me to use just one product--I am constantly trying something new. But I really wanted to see if this product could work well. So I stopped using everything else for a week and substituted my day and night creams and eye cream with The Solution.

I am aware that makeup artists and many celebrities have embraced The Solution, but just because someone else loves a product doesn't mean it's going to be right for you. Kimberly asserts that The Solution is great for all skin types, and all ages. So of course I had to try it!

My own test wasn't scientific, but I was really impressed with the results and how nice my skin looked and felt --even after just a few days. Of course, like any other product, real results only come with regular use...and time. I didn't look seventeen again, but my skin did almost immediately appear smoother and brighter. And, it also felt softer. Even some of the broken capillaries I have that I can't seem to banish permanently, seem a bit more more subdued. My eyes were de-puffed and I was happy to see that even though I have sensitive skin and eyes, the product didn't cause any irritation. Best of all, when I traveled for the weekend, all I needed was the one bottle. I can use any product I want, but I find myself constantly reaching for The Solution....it's that good!

Get two, 1 oz bottles of The Solution for $74.00 *plus shipping and handling. The sealed pump keeps the product fresh, and a little goes a long way. And, Envision Beauty will donated at least 10% of the net proceeds from each sale to charities that support sustainable projects for needy people worldwide such as Kimberly's favorite charity, Project Concern International which focuses on sustainable initiatives across the world such as clean water, micro-enterprise, agricultural development, and child and maternal health.

To Purchase Envision Skin Care, visit http://www.envision-beauty.com/

Kimberly served us some amazing raw truffles...they were absolutely delicious! She said she'd post the recipe on her blog, so hopefully she'll do that soon. Get great raw food recipes and much more on Kimberly's blog: http://kimberlysnyder.wordpress.com/about/

Sheckys Beauty Night Out - A Girl's Fanatasy for Female Fun!

There are some things that I eagerly anticipate on a seasonal basis. For example, when it is Winter, I eagerly await sunny Summer weather. And, I can't wait for New Years Eve, Ground Hog Day, and ......Shecky's Beauty Night and Girls Nights Out! Last week, I attended Shecky’s 4th annual Beauty Night Out, featuring product sampling, and services from up approximately fifty of Shecky’s 2008/2009 BEAUTY AT ITS BEST winners. A Shecky's event is always a "can't miss!"

Get there early, and you'll still find a line of women eagerly waiting to get in and start sampling and shopping. They all know that Sheckys events are good fun worth waiting for. Most of the women I talked to at Sheckys Beauty Night out had been to at least one other Shecky's event, and were back for more. My own, first experience with Sheckys was at a Girls Night Out in Spring of 2007 ....and then, I loved the beauty-oriented Shecky's Beauty Night Out I attended last Fall.

The experience is bound to leave you thinking: "Wow, that was such fun!" even if you're there as I was, a reporter there to check out the just-for-girls fun, without the benefit of female bonding. The idea is a simple one: a "happy hour" mixed with the excitement of a sample sale, plus better than Fashion Week-style goodie bags. The female fun quotient is high. You're getting a group of BFFs together in a room full of "eye candy" (girly shopping items, and great looking guys).

Enter the door, and grab a free hot towel and a beer or mixed drink from one of a number of these great looking (and polite and respectful) guys to get the party started. This is a just-for-the-ladies event, so even the men's rooms are turned into women's rooms for the night. Check out your makeup, or walk over to a number of tables with free samples of different makeup lines, and perhaps have your makeup done. Of course, there are also things to buy (it's a shopping night, naturally). There are tables of pretty, girly things everyone loves: accessories, beauty items, sparkling jewelry, wellness services. Make sure all of these are deeply discounted--and piles high with free samples to tote home. The result of all of this good fun is lots of laughter, excitement, and smiling faces

One Shecky's guests all get a re-useable tote bag full of great products worth much more than the price of admission. In fact, one of the Advice Sister's most popular blog search terms is "Sheckys" but the other is "what's in the Shecky's Gift Bag? Shecky's does tout the gift bag as a major benefit of coming to their events. What's inside is not a secret, but it does change every event. Here, a happy Shecky's Beauty Night Out participant willingly poses with not one, but two gift bags, as at this event, the sheer amount of loot was so generous, the Shecky's logo bag was not large enough to hold all of the goodies!

The bags generally are filled with full sized name brands in skincare, cosmetics, and even chocolate bars! My suggestion is to also bring your own, lightweight tote for all the other freebies you'll get and perhaps, purchase.... this is just a small representation of what was in the bag.

And Shecky's Beauty Night Out gives girls a chance to try new products and services. For example, Conair offered free styling right at their display, along with a give-away of packages of great, no-slip ponytail holders.

One of the Advice Sisters favorite companies, Conair,was there. They had a nice display of some of their most popular, new items, so Sheckys guests could really check them out up close. Two of my favorites, shown here, are the Conair Infiniti Nano Silver Tourmaline Ceramic Styler and Conair the Infiniti Nano Silver Ionic Steam Straightener, both of which we have reviewed in the Advice Sisters What Works Beauty, Cosmetics & Fashion Review columns. For me, however, one of the best parts of a Sheckys event is the chance to meet people who really know the products they are representing, and can talk about them in great detail. Sometimes, the knowledgeable men and women you talk to are the owners of the company. You will not only take home tons of free stuff, you will take home lots of tips and advice...priceless!

Free samples at Sheckys events are really good, such as these of Redken's Forceful 23 hair spray, a favorite of hair stylists to use on models, backstage at Fashion Week.

...and Boots even had an amusement park-style "claw" game full of wonderful Boots makeup and skin care products. Guests could try this luck and snag a great Boots product to take home!

If you are planning to attend a Sheckys Girls Night Out or Beauty Night Out event, I suggest you reserve your place early, as some of the days do sell out. Take a lightweight purse, and perhaps, even another lightweight tote bag (you'll be getting free samples, brochures, and buying other items) and the Sheckys gift bag is already full when you get it. Be ready to spend money. The combo of free drinks, good friends, and great bargains will probably have you opening your wallet...but you won't regret it! Shecky's holds beauty, fashion, and social events in New York City Atlanta Boston Chicago Los Angeles San Francisco --be sure to check them all out at http://www.sheckys.com/

Bobbi Brown Pink Ribbon Collection- Breast Cancer Awareness Made Very Pretty!

I am a huge fan of Bobbi Brown's Pink Glitter Lip Gloss for several years--it's the sheerest, shimmeriest, make-my-lips-lovely, color out there. For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Bobbi Brown has created a limited edition Lip Set $40.00 pairing her exclusive, Pink Glitter Lip Gloss and with another popular item, a soft pink lipstick called "Tulle," packaged in a photographic carton. Bobbi Brown will be donating $35,000 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, in connection with the North American sales of the Estee Lauder Pink Ribbon collection. Right now, the set is available at all Bobi Brown counters....you'll want to treat yourself and get a few for special, holiday gifts.

www.bobbibrown.com or 1-877-310-9222

Breast Cancer Awareness Beauty Shopping Guide

TotalBeauty.com content:

Breast Cancer Awareness Beauty Shopping Guide

Make October 2008 prettier, pinker and more powerful! Shop pink products and support a great cause!

What can you do to help in the fight against breast cancer? Something simple. Shop today from this collection of exclusive pink products -- because for every one of these products sold, a donation will be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Who knew that looking good could make you feel so incredibly good too? Browse guide

Total Beauty Web tour for this week

Here's what some of my blogging colleagues are up to this week:


Viva Woman tells you how to use a homemade oat mask to reduce your facial pore size and improve your skin's texture.


Beauty Tyrant shares her fall '08 must-have fragrance: Pacifica Solid Perfumes.

See what Fabulous Over Forty has listed as her Five Favorite Fall products.

Beauty Anonymous likes to shop at convenience stores in Asia.

Boutique Flair reviews Bethesda Sunscreen Soap.

Jennifer Lopez Launches Deseo For Men-Talking Makeup!

The Makeup Divas reviews Bobbi Brown's Shimmering Nudes Eye Palette and Creamy Lip Color in Sunset Gold.


Beauty411 kicks off Breast Cancer Awareness month with a Pink Ribbon Lip Collection that will amp up your look and help a great cause!

Beauty Blogging Junkie tries out Givenchy's innovative new mascara, Phenomen'Eyes and loves it! You'll be shocked about whom Amber guesses is the inspiration for the product. Find out here.

Glossypink> has a new favorite foundation--it's long-wearing and natural-looking!

Beauty in Real Life reviews Chanel's Smokey Eye Quad and shows you how to achieve the perfect smokey eye. Check it out here.

Don't worry, girls! Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog has their Manic-Monday-Bailout-Blues-Twisted-Silver FREE Giveway to cheer y'all up. Enter now to win this chic bracelet valued at $100!

Monique at Beauty Girl Musings finds something that is better than bareMinerals Mineral Veil. Why is it better? find out here!

Evian Natural Spring Water--Inspired by the French Alps --Great Holiday Suggestions

Water covers approximately 71% of the Earth's surface. mostly in oceans and other large bodies of water. The majority of us don't really think much about where our water comes from. We open the tap and it simply flows out. However, a percentage (1.6%) of our water comes from below the ground, in aquifers and springs. For those who want the purest water possible, spring water is the beverage of choice. A spring is a point where the water flows out of the ground. Sometimes this happens year-round and sometimes, the spring only is active when there is a lot of rain, or the snow is melting. A spring often sends water down, along the land, gathering up some good minerals as it flows.

You may think that water is just water, so who cares? But some of the minerals in Spring water are considered to be extra healthy. And, since designers are putting their names and their visions on just about everything these days, why not also, water? Evian®, for example, has made water fashionable and festive. Our bodies are approximately 2/3rds water. Without water, we would simply not exist!

But spring water, elegantly served from a beautiful bottle, nourishes the spirit as well as the body. You might not be able to buy your special friends a palace, but you can treat them to water fit for royalty, with the Evian® Palace Bottle $43.95/dozen. The plastic bottle, made of recyclable Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is long and slim, embossed at the bottom with a 3D depiction of the French Alps. This bottle can also be found in some of the nation's hottest restaurants, clubs and hotels. A case of 12, available for home delivery, is an economical and festive alternative to wine at the table for the holidays. Of course, it makes everyday dining more elegant, too.
Add The Palace Bottle Pourer $15.00 to make the presentation, and pouring, even more luxe. The 100% stainless steel pourer fits perfectly on the Evian® Palace Bottle. For those who really love designers and fashion, there's the beautiful, Christian Lacroix Prêt-à-Porter glass bottle $13.95 or $118.00/12. The designer's vision features a voluptuous, clear glass bottle with slender top, completely decorated with an intricate, lacy, design of ice crystals that symbolize the purity of Evian natural spring water. Once the water has been consumed, you can use the decorated bottles for other purposes--maybe to root some ivy vines, or hold flowers.

A popular product that your skin drinks in from the outside, is the Evian® Brumisateur® facial Spray $10.00 5 fl. oz. (other sizes available). It's been a long time favorite pick-me-up of fashionable men and women to tone, refresh and moisturize their skin. Just one spritz, several times a day, brings comfort to dehydrated skin. Your face won't feel "wet" but it will feel nicely cool, as millions of tiny micro-droplets are absorbed and instantly go to work to moisturize and refresh. That's one of the reasons people tote it on airplanes and to the beach. The ingredients are simple: Evian® Water, propelled by natural and safe nitrogen (80% of the air we breathe is nitrogen) so it does not damage the ozone layer. The neutral pH of Evian® natural spring water invigorates all skin types, ands even sets your makeup.

Even if you don't have the budget for a pricey Bordeaux, you're not into alcoholic beverages, or you're dieting, there is just something so elegant and deliciously decadent about pouring natural spring water from one of these special bottles, or spritzing it on your skin. The water tastes good....great, actually. Like a fine wine, Evian water's mineral composition is developed slowly through nature's own filtration process: at least 15 years journeying through the French Alps! Once you try it you'll be hooked on the feeling. It's a little luxury that you can enjoy year-round, and especially during the holidays.


Evian's online store is at: http://www.shopevian.com/

The Sex and the City Girls: Then and Now

TotalBeauty.com content:

The Sex and the City Girls: Then and Now

10 years and countless hair and makeup looks later, they're still smokin'

We loved the show, but it wasn't just the relationship drama that kept us tuning in -- it was their unique style, gorgeous hair and flawless makeup. See how each of the ladies evolved from the first season in 1998 all the way to the movie's much-anticipated May 2008 premiere. (Scene spoiler alert!: We managed to snag some shots of the girls on the movie set.) See the looks

Total Beauty Total Cure

Throughout the month of October, since it's Breast Cancer Awarenss Month, a group of volunteer bloggers from the Total Beauty Blog community are uniting to raise awareness for breast cancer and hopefully raise some money for the Breast Cancer Research Fund. The Advice Sisters blog is part of this, and we are support the Total Beauty Total Cure Breast Cancer Campaign.

Each day a different blog will host a giveaway with a minimum retail value of $250. In order to be eligible to win, you’ll need to answer some breast cancer trivia. We’re hoping by making it engaging both through fun and education for prevention and detection–that more women will participate.

You can become our friend on our Total Beauty Total Cure MySpace profile and on our Total Beauty Total Cure Facebook profile. This is where you’ll learn the facts about breast cancer. With a woman being diagnosed every 3 minutes–that’s a staggering statistic you don’t want to ignore.

My giveaway with Redpoint Cosmetics will take place on October 15th. I encourage you to visit the Total Beauty web site to see all of the beauty blogs that are participating.

Best Beauty Looks from the 2008 Emmy Awards

TotalBeauty.com content:

Best Beauty Looks from the 2008 Emmy Awards

TotalBeauty.com's awards for the celebrities who showed off winning hairstyles and makeup looks

Here we count down our favorite hair and makeup looks of the 2008 Emmy Awards, from best ponytail and updo to best eye makeup. Find out which TV star showed the most improvement from her look in 2007 and which starlet stole our best all-around look award. And the best part? It won't take you hours to get to the payoff. Best looks

Hana Flat Iron in Breast Cancer Awareness Pink Edition - Look Good, Do Good

Are you looking for a new flat iron or a great gift? The Professional Flat Iron 1" Breast Cancer Awareness Pink Edition $99.00 by Hana will make you be glad to be a girl, but it's a pro-style ceramic flat iron with tourmaline technology that has every bell and whistle you could want on a high-tech flat iron. Let it "muscle" even unruly hair into smooth, shiny strands.

The flat iron is really pretty and is therefore it makes a mundane chore more fun, but your purchase also helps you do more than look good: Hana beauty products, will be donating $25 of every sale of this beautiful flat iron to the Susan G. Komen foundation. More info on that can be found at Komen.org.

This very special flat iron arrives in a re-useable, special edition, shiny black tin (ours now stores hair clips and styling accessories). Other (included) goodies include a large, soft-sided, pink heat-proof, plastic storage/travel pouch and a pink, heat proof silicone mat that protects against heat damage.

Hana really sweats the details. The high quality iron has glass-smooth ceramic-tourmaline plates. A accelerated negative ion output repairs hair follicles, sealing in natural oils for maximum, frizz-free shine that really lasts. Other pro-style features include the ability to use this iron for damp-to-dry styling, and 1" floating plates that help you style an entire head of hair quickly (the plates also self-adjust to suit different textures of hair). There's an adjustable temperature dial (the plates heat up quickly), with five settings from 140-450 degrees, to handle all types of hair. The energy-efficient iron has an 8' tangle-free salon quality power cord that swivels a full 360 for easy styling, and a hanging loop, There’s even a one year warranty. TIP: on this model, the LED indicator light remains steady when iron is heating up and will blink when desired temperature is reached. If the light is off but the switch is set to On, the iron is decreasing temperature to a lower setting.

October is breast cancer awareness month and the holidays are approaching quickly. This beautiful flat iron would make a fantastic gift for a special woman. Get the pink edition and help support breast cancer research. Giving back to fight this disease--that's a gift that’s truly priceless.

To get the Professional Flat Iron 1" Breast Cancer Awareness Pink Edition by Hana visit www.misiko.com or call 888-336-5997

Ebay's Doing a World of Good for Holiday Shopping with WorldofGood.com

Fall is here, the holiday season is fast approaching, and you'll want to start thinking about holiday gifts. One new "find" is a new marketplace from eBay, called: WorldofGood.com! This site was created by eBay and World of Good, Inc. and the product you'll find here were selected for the positive social impact they have on the people who create them, and also on the environment.

Many products on the site are fair trade certified and are either made by impoverished artisans from or farmed by small farmer cooperatives in the third world. For example, this set of colorful Masai Bangles (just $12.50 with free shipping).

Most of the products on WorldofGood.com are also created from recycled, reclaimed and/or sustainable materials, creating an eco-friendlier impact on the planet than using all brand new materials. In fact, many products available on WorldofGood.com are considered "upcycled" products, new products created out of partial or full materials that would otherwise end up in a landfill.


eBay is offering other ways for you to shop for the holidays and do good, as well. eBay "Giving Works" is eBay’s program for charity listings. It connects people with causes they care about to facilitate convenient and trusted fundraising. Buyers can shop, knowing that proceeds from these listings each benefit a notable nonprofit.

MicroPlace is the world's first and only online brokerage specializing in socially responsible investments that alleviate poverty. This holiday, give the gift that can change someone's life by investing in the working poor of the world.

Oloff Beauty's Breast Cancer Awareness Month Offering--Olio Benessere Body Wellness Oil

When I was backstage at Joanna Mastroianni's Spring 2009 runway show at the Bryant Park tents, my contact for Oloff Beauty (the hair sponsor for the show) gave me a packet of information about other Oloff Beauty products and brands. The company's Aeto Botanica Wellness products help encourage a healthy mind, body and spirit. The products also assist women with reducing hair loss that directly results from medical treatments -- such as cancer patients throughout chemotherapy.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Aeto Botanica is introducing Aeto Botanica Spa Olio Benessere Wellness Oil for the Body 5.07 fl. oz. launching in October that is not only a good product, the company will donate 10% of the proceeds from the sale of the oil to the Libby Ross Foundation, during the month of October.

Botanica Spa Olio Benessere Wellness Oil for the Body is a botanical body oil in a clear plastic bottle. The oil is free of harsh chemicals that might irritate sensitive skin.The 100% virgin oil is healing, anti-bacterial, and a natural antibiotic with anti-oxidant properties. The oil has only high quality ingredients, such as pure coconut and Tamanu essential oils, that will lightly moisturize your skin for up to 8 hours. Tamanu oil is native to Polynesia, and is obtained from cold-pressed, dried Tamanu nut kernels. The soft, exotic scent of Monoi de Tiare gives you the feeling that you're in Hawaii, or maybe a tropical paradise. Monoi de Tiare is a rare form of Gardenia flower, found in the South Pacific. It also has softening and soothing properties, as well as a lovely, exotic, floral scent. Olio Benessere stimulates blood circulation when it is massaged into the skin...helping to eliminate toxins and fortify the skin with oxygen and nutrients. The oil liquefies at temperatures about 75 degrees, and makes a lovely massage oil. Coconut oil is super hydrating and skin softening. For this product, macerated fresh buttons of tiare are immersed in the oil and left there for months, so the oil can absorb the tiare flower fragrance.

Get this great body/massage oil, and help make a difference, too! Visit www.oloffbeauty.com\

Aetó Botanica's devotion to the cause lies in Every Woman and salutes:
The courage every woman shows in hard times
The harmony every woman brings to her loved ones
The triumphs every woman delights in sharing
The inside beauty every woman emanates
The inspiration every woman finds in the eyes of Every Woman

Guita Dovas, CEO Oloff Beauty, has partnered with The Libby Ross Foundation to help fight breast cancer as well as support those fighting it. As Guita explains: “In the past decade we have seen considerable advancements in the fight against Breast Cancer. It is so encouraging to see women who have survived it, leading long, healthy & happy lives. But, until the cure is found, it is the duty of each one of us to play a part in this battle.” The Libby Ross Foundation's mission is to make a significant difference in the lives of women afflicted with breast cancer through unique support programs and to help eradicate the disease through research and early detection. For more information, visit http://www.thelibbyrossfoundation.com/

Secret Obsession--Calvin Klein's Latest is Sexy...and so Satisfying!

I have always adored Obsession by Calvin Klein -a spicy floriental that smells intense and lovely. It was the kind of scent that was significant enough that I'd save it for special occasions, dabbing the real and pungent perfume in strategic places.

But now there's a new girl in town and she's even hotter: Secret Obsession by Calvin Klein for Coty Prestige 1.7-oz. Eau de Parfum Spray, $55.003.4-oz. Eau de Parfum Spray, $72.00. The scent is sexy with an advertising campaign so sexy that a video clip of sultry actress Eva Mendes (the face of this latest Calvin Klein perfume) rolling around in black & white, totally nude, was banned from the networks. Really? Give me a break! You can see more "sex" on the average television drama or daytime soap. Mendes rolling around as if possessed is dramatic, but there's little to shock (other than a flash of a nipple). The spot was re- edited to air on TV after 9:00 p.m. for the holiday season. This being 2008 and not 1985 (when the first Obsession scent was created), you can see the "banned" commercial as free advertising for the product just about everywhere online....including here on the Advice Sisters blog. Judge for yourself and leave a comment.

A large billboard with a tastefully nude Mendes was unveiled a few weeks ago in Times Square during Fashion Week. The advertising line: "between love and madness, lies Obsession" line isn't new. The "taunted with illicit thoughts and compelled with seeking pleasure" tag line is, and probably caught the censor's attention (along with the sexy image). Sex sells, and it certainly sells fragrance...but honestly, this lovely fragrance sells itself!


And the fragrance is what all of this hype is about. There's a marbelized, amber carton that holds an amber glass bottle with slender top , designed by Fabien Baron. It looks a bit like an Aladin's lamp. At press time, the actual bottle was unavailable to the Advice Sisters, but we've been told that as you pull of the cap over the spray diffuser, the Secret Obsession logo unveils itself on the collar (like a private secret the designer shared with just you).

Inside, the fragrance, created by Givaudan perfumer Ann Gottlieb is a modernized version of the original scent. It's hardly the same though, with just some of the basic notes in the original. this one's a much lighter version that starts with a cheerful fruit -- top notes of exotic plum, mace and rose de damas. The heart features the florals: Egyptian jasmine, French orange flower and tuberose. The base notes are what attract me and provide the spicy drydown: sultry cashmere woods, burnt amber, Madagascan vanilla and Australian sandalwood. In concert, the notes feel exotic but with a surprise of some masculine woods. It scent warms with your skin, lasts, and transforms your attitude. Visit the Secret Obsession web site and learn more about the fragrance, get a sample, and if you desire, leave your "secret" obsession for others to read.



Secret Obsession: http://www.macys.com/and Macys, and department stores nationwide.

The Advice Sisters Support Breast Cancer Awareness Month with Total Beauty Bloggers

I will be adding posts daily with "look good-feel good--DO good" ideas to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month--please watch the video and participate in special offers.....and spread the word--ALISON for the Advice Sisters