Cane + Austin Ultra Sheer Weightless Sunscreen

Cane + Austin SPF 55 Protect
2 fl. oz.  $38

When I recently attended the HBA Global Beauty Expo, I was happy to meet the team representing Cane + Austin.  Cane is not a person.  It refers to the pharmaceutical grade glycolic acid, derived from natural sugar cane, that Dr. Austin uses in his Hollywood favorite Retexturizing Pads. 


I have used and loved this product before and blogged about it with a resounding rave, (http://divadebbi.blogspot.com/2010/09/just-padding-around.html).

I was anxious to hear what else had been developed by Dr. Austin and was pleased that he did the natural follow-up and created Retexturizing Pads for the Body.  A jar of 60 large pads arrived yesterday and my elbows, knees and decollete squealed with joy. (Stay tuned for a future review)

The also showed me another product they were quite proud of,  their Ultra Sheer Weightless Sunscreen, with SPF 55 designed to block both UVA and UVB rays. I  crooked my eyebrow, expecting to see yet another heavy sunscreen that looked like Milk of Magnesia...

Review: Clear Scalp & Hair Therapy

Clear Scalp & Hair Therapy Shampoo
and Conditioner $5.99 drugstores  nationwide

Experience has shown me to be the sucker who runs out and purchases any product with even the tiniest twist on "new".  The concept behind Unilever's Clear Scalp & Hair Therapy is that we have gotten it all wrong...it's not our hair we should be worrying about it's our scalps.

Uncharacteristically, that didn't resonate with me as a reason to run out and buy it. As well,  the packaging is fairly generic.  Nothing was screaming, "Buy Me" about Clear Scalp and Hair Therapy, including the name. Meh...

Nicely, my friend Jackie Silver author of Aging Backwards gave me hers to try.  There are several formulations: Total Care, Strong Lengths, Volumizing Root, Damaged and Color Treated, Ultra Shea, and a product for Men.  Here is how they are described: 

New CLEAR SCALP & HAIR BEAUTY THERAPY Total Care Nourishing Shampoo and Conditioner System for all hair types is clinically proven to help restore scalp's natural moisture balance when using the shampoo and conditioner regimen. Formulated with Nutrium 10, an advanced moisture complex of vitamins and nutrients including vitamins B5, C and E, sunflower, almond, soybean and coconut oils, and aloe vera, the system gently cleanses and nourishes the scalp and hair.

I used the "Total Care" shampoo and conditioner (which I think is the most basic, and probably a good one to start with), on Thursday night. I had a very pleasant experience in the shower. Clean Scalp & Hair Therapy is clean smelling, and created a rich, creamy lather.  The conditioner did not feel leaden and it rinsed out easily.  The real surprise was when I took the towel off my head...

Isn't she lovely?

Isn't she lovely? by divadebbi featuring cat eye sunglasses

Glytone Step-Up Mild Gel Wash Cleanser is a Step-Up

Glytone Cleansers 6.7 oz. $30

I have to admit, these days before I go out and buy anything new, I check my goodie closet first to see what I might have unused and never tried...and there is plenty.

"Roses" are having a beauty moment (probably for the 11,000 time) and I have been testing a cleanser infused with lots of it.  While it did a nice job of gentle cleansing with my beloved Clarisonic Mia, it was a wee too cloying, particularly in the morning, so I needed to move on.

I spied a never opened Glytone Step-Up Mild Gel Wash, with a "Free Acid Value" of 4.7 in my vanity.  I know I put it there, but other than that, I have no clue where it came from, but now I'm glad I have it.

This exquisitely light aqua gel, does a fabulous job of removing every trace of makeup without any sense of stripping or drying. Very little product is needed.  If I had been a little swifter, I would have realized the "gly" in Glytone, represents "glycolic acid", an anti-aging skincare ingredient I firmly believe in.

I did a little online research and found Glytone's cleansers (and there are several), to be highly rated by users at Dermstore.com and endorsed by well known dermatologists who use it exclusively in their practices.

It is an extensive line that tackles various skin issues like rosacea, hyperpigmentation, acne, anti-aging and  post-op needs.  I found the company history to be interesting. It makes sense to me now why so many physicians embrace it.

Everything is rosy...

Everything is rosy... by divadebbi featuring a lip stick

Green is Good... Especially on Salma

Green is Good... Especially on Salma by divadebbi

I love when my beauty stars align!  I was inspired to create this Polyvore around the lovely Salma Hayek,  who graced the red carpet for the premiere of the new summer blockbuster, Savages  on Monday night in a jaw dropping green Gucci gown.
Her beauty team at Kaplow P.R. sent me a step-by-step on how she achieved her naturally, flawless look.  Naturally, . Salma showcased her beauty using products from her beauty line, Nuance Salma Hayek, developed in partnership with CVS/pharmacy and available exclusively at their 7,300 stores and online at www.cvs.com.  I have used several of her products.  I am particuarly crazy about her lip glosses, that taste as delicious as they look.

Salma Hayek in Gucci.  Savages premiere
Photo courtesy of Red Carpet Fashion Awards

Here’s how to get the look:

· SKIN PREP: Before applying makeup, Nuance Salma Hayek Smooth Start Skin Primer ($11.99) will help diminish the appearance of pores and fine lines while nourishing skin for a healthy-looking glow.

· FACE: Snag Salma’s youthful, radiant glow with the Nuance Salma Hayek Flawless Wear Tinted Moisturizer ($13.99), which offers oil-free, sheer coverage. This product is a multi-tasker as it also helps to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles!

· CHEEKS: Accent your cheekbones with the Nuance Salma Hayek Flawless Mineral Cheek Trio ($12.99), a three-in-one conditioning blush that shapes, highlights and defines for an extra-smooth, velvety finish.

· LINER: To create bold dark lines around the eyes, try the Nuance Salma Hayek Lasting Wear Gel Eyeliner - Black ($9.99), which goes on with the ease of a pencil and as smooth as a liquid liner.

· LASHES: To complete the sultry eye look, coat lashes with a mascara that provides length and volume, like the Nuance Salma Hayek Full Effect Ultra-Volumizing Mascara - Black ($9.79). It only takes one coat to pump up the volume!

· LIPS: Finish off this natural look with the Nuance Salma Hayek Color Vibrance Lipstick - Shimmering Nude ($9.99), which provides subtle shimmer and extra moisture for lips while keeping color to a minimum.

We should be so lucky....

xox,
DD

HBA Global Expo aka Diva in Wonderland

2012 HBA Global Expo Jacob K. Javitts Convention Center NYC

I don't know how it is exactly, that until Wednesday, I have never had a reason to attend the Jacob Javitts Convention Center before, but I relish new experiences, even on 100 degree days, so off I went.  Remarkably, this behemoth that spans nearly 6 city blocks was as cold as a meat locker...trust me, I wasn't complaining.



What was going on was an International fair of new products, technologies, packaging, formulation, speakers and panels.

I connected, reconnected, sampled products, learned about new launches, did facial exercises and sat in on an excellent seminar, "Social Influence In Skincare And Beauty", well moderated by Katie Welch, Vice President of Communications of Bliss.



Katie and fellow panelists Felicia Walker Benson, Social Media Beauty Director, Bergdorf Goodman, Dr. Stuart Schultz, President of DermTV and  mySkin′s CEO, Rahul Mehendale  all top influencers in the world of social skincare and beauty, shared their "Golden Rules" with us.  It was time well spent.



I also met:

Emma lights up the night...

Emma lights up the night... by divadebbi 
 (Emma Stone photo's courtesy of 
Red Carpet Fashion Awards)

I am absolutely crazy about Emma Stone's style. She has been on a recent European promo tour of "The Amazing Spider-Man". While some actresses show Red Carpet fatigue midway through most tours,
Emma showed no signs of abating her usual razzle dazzle.

I created the Polyvore above after being blown away by this particularly beautiful Bottega Veneta dress. I love the cut of the shoulders, the train, Emma's choice of a classic pump and her stunning up do a la Catherine Deneuve.  


Divine!


Here are a few other looks from The Amazing Spider-Man tour.  I also quite love that she always looks at ease and is not afraid to mix up her hair and makeup styles:

In Gucci with smoldering lips

In Elie Saab adding the pop of orange at the waist and smooth locks

In Andrew Gn with a low side swept bun and coral lips

Classic LBD by Martin Grant

Enchanting in Jason Wu and I adore the shoe choice

It's official: She's my new Girl crush.

xox,

DD

Black Tie...with Sleeves!

This is my second article in a series of two that I wrote for the website Women's Voices for Change about dressing beautifully for a wedding. The first covered daytime venues.  This time we focused on Black Tie. With both, the challenge was to create fashionable looks on Polyvore with sleeves. I like the range of these options.


It was particularly thrilling to see this spectacular Lela Rose gown arrive at Richards this week. Sometimes, my dreams do come true.


xox,
DD

It’s official: Official wedding attire is no longer set in stone. This spring, Vera Wang, the trendsetting bridal designer, sent her models down the runway in shades of dahlia, scarlet, crimson, and vermillion. As brides make the leap to new traditions—and, make no mistake, they will—the “rules” of proper guest attire will again be blurred.

A few years ago, no one would have dreamed of wearing black to a wedding. Now, complete wedding parties, Moms included, wear black.  This makes shopping in or out of your closet a bit easier for a guest . . . particularly for those who are “sleeve challenged.

The Lela Rose gown on the left beautifully marries fashion and elegance. The exquisite silk and wool skirt with ruffled train is topped by a tulle bodice with a face-flattering bateau neckline, hand embroidery, and, yes, a sleeve. It’s an important gown, one that would make a fabulous choice for the mother of the bride at a black-tie wedding. (This dress is also available at Richards, contact me  at DivaDebbi@gmail.com for a personal viewing.)

Every closet should include a pair of perfectly cut black evening pants. If they are a lightweight wool, jersey or silk, they will be wearable 365 days a year.  The Talbot Runhof black lace coat, paired with the Etro pant, is an elegant and versatile wardrobe addition. The coat would also be lovely on top of a classic black dress or one with a pop of color.

Legs became the new “booty” the minute Angelina Jolie flashed us a thigh-full of Versace at this year’s Academy Awards.  Elie Saab, master of impeccable eveningwear, is always ahead of the curve. This seemingly simple jersey gown has it all; lot’s of leg, a long sleeve, and the color of today—vermillion. This is the type of dress that would look elegant anywhere in the world, and it would pack beautifully too. Now would be the perfect time to wear it to a black-tie wedding: Next year, vermillion may be off limits.

Ensembles that multi-task are a dream.  When both pieces pair as well with each other as with items you already own, that is true investment dressing.  The black cotton and silk top, from Alessandra Rich, looks fabulous with the ivory lace skirt, but would look equally good with the black Etro pant or slim-cut white jeans. Conversely, the lace skirt would look chic paired with a black turtleneck and boots at a holiday party.

The Wonderful World of Giorgio Armani

One of my great pleasures is the new role I have taken on as the Giorgio Armani Retail Brand Ambassador for Richards, in addition to my job as their Personal Shopper.  

On Monday, I met the buyers at Armani's exquisite headquarters in NYC, to work on the Resort and Spring 2013 collection. Everything, is soothing and impeccable. The space is elegantly framed by floor to ceiling windows with incredible panoramic views of Manhattan.  Every landmark feels like you could throw a pebble at it and hear it ping.  

His team is the best in the business and they are passionate about, "Mr. Armani's" vision.  A day at the showroom is always a pleasure.  Breakfast and lunch are tastefully catered and served elegantly on white china.  It is the nicest possible ambiance to partner in creating a successful season.

There is no doubt, that most people associate Mr. Armani with flawless tailoring, particularly suiting. While impeccably tailored suiting will always be a signature, what excited me most is the incredible range, within one collection of beautiful lifestyle pieces. 

Take a look at the wonderful world of Armani and if you are going to be in Greenwich this Saturday June 23rd., pop into Richards and see this wonderful trunk show, that we are privileged to have, yourself:

Daydreaming...

Daydreaming...

Those of you who know me from my youth knew I was either re-applying my lipstick, passing notes to my friends or daydreaming in class...particularly algebra and geometry. 

Texting would have been heaven...

xox,
DD

Back to Basics: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eye Liner

Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner $22
Tapered brush $25

I have long been a fan of Award Winning Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner.  This was Bobbi's baby and though it's been oft imitated, the depth and consistency of it is unmatched.  Initially, it was sold in darker hues, traditional eyeliner shades.  I was surprised to see it now comes in 13 shades, including brights and shimmering mauve.

The latter would not be my passion.  When I line my eyes, I am looking for definition.  If I had a gun to my head and had to choose between mascara or liner, the liner would win.  Without it, I look exhausted.

Gel liner is not for novices, but once you get the hang of it, it's worth it.  Don't even think of attempting it without the specially designed ultra fine eyeliner brush. It's an investment I was cranky about making, but one that was well worth it and with a little TLC it can last for years.

I hope Miranda has a heart of gold...

I hope Miranda has a heart of gold... by divadebbi featuring a silver heart necklace

Holy Grail Alert: John Frieda Frizz Ease Hair Setter

John Frieda® Frizz Ease® Hair Setter by Conair ($49.99)

I love my friends, whole heartily.  They have faith in me and believe I can succeed at most things I attempt.  Naturally we are not talking about anything PhD. worthy...more like the ability to use a curling iron or learning to play Mah Jong.


I however, know the limitations of my skill set.  Both of the above are excluded.  All attempts have proved futile. 


When I received information about a new type of hot roller developed by John Frieda for Conair, I perked up.  When I learned that it is part of the Frizz Ease Collection,  I was all ears and ecstatic to hear they could be sent to me for review. 


JF has more than proved he knows a thing or three about helping tame frizz.


My John Frieda Frizz Ease Hair Setter arrived the other night.  It was a damp, humid day and a trip to the gym did nothing to improve the state of my hair. Though I was planning to wash my hair in the morning, I was too excited not to try them and more than curious if they could do anything to smooth my hair or improve it all.  Suffice to say, anything should have looked better.

Naia by Thymes: Dad deserves this

Naia Fragrance Collection from Thymes

Ever since I was introduced to Thymes Bergamot Vert AHA Body Lotion last year, with its heavenly citrus scent, I have followed their new collection additions and given items from several of them as gifts.

Thymes, a 30 year old company from Minneapolis, was founded by two friends who have an enduring passion for fragrance and purity. I sampled Naia and immediately thought of it a uni-sex fragrance that would make any man smell delicious.  Thymes products can be ordered through their website, but if you click on their website's store locator, you may be as pleased as I was to find a retailer close to home.

The Naia Collection is reasonably priced--perfect for gifts from the kids:

Treat your dad to a revitalizing, fresh fragrance from Thymes’s Naia collection for Father’s Day.

Developed with yerba mate, a South American herb renowned for its skin rejuvenating properties, the Naia fragrance collection revitalizes not only your senses, but your skin as well. Evoking a singular sense of calm and clarity, Naia transports dad to a refreshing escape in nature, heightening his self-awareness and focus so he can better appreciate the beauty of life’s every moment.  

An addictive crisp green scent, Naia blends tart yuzu with succulent lychée and zesty lemon pulp, leading to a heart of water lily, glowing cyclamen and woodsy bamboo leaves. A heady enlivening finish of Hinoki wood and sheer musk rounds out this invigorating fragrance.

• These products from Naia make perfect gifts for dad:

 Naia Body Wash ($19): Whether used as a shower gel or body cleanser, this refreshing wash immerses him in lush, skin-conditioning botanicals. Enriched with glycerin to soften skin and yerba mate to stimulate your body and senses, this indulgent formula delivers a deep, revitalizing clean.

Naia Bar Soap ($13): Infused with hydrating glycerin and nourishing yerba mate, this triple-milled soap creates a rich lather, clarifying skin while enveloping you with a crisp, clean fragrance. 

Naia Body Lotion ($25): For smooth, supple skin, look no further than this creamy lotion. It blends yerba mate extract, antioxidant-rich vitamin E, glycering and shea butter to seal in moisture and protect and fortify skin from head to toe.

Naia Cologne ($33): A spritz of this brisk, clean cologne is all it takes to enliven dad’s senses. The luscious scent of water lily and cyclamen is beautifully complemented with the sweet-tart of citrus and lychée.

One of the nicest thing about receiving a gift, is getting something you wouldn't buy for yourself.  Naia may be just one of those things.

Dad's deserve a little pampering too...

xox,

DD

Happy at last! And then comes...

Happy at last! And then comes... by divadebbi 

Call me crazy, but I have always felt badly that Brad kicked Jen to the
curb for Angelina.  It's hard enough when these things happen to friends
 in suburbia. When it happens to one of Hollywood's golden couples
 under the harsh glare of the media it's particularly rough. As a result,
 I have always had a soft spot for Jen.

Something tells me this one, her current love interest Justin Theroux,
is the one.  I frequent many websites everyday including Red Carpet Fashion Awards and The Fancy for images that capture my interest.

I saved this lovely love shot of Jen and Justin, and shortly after spotted
 this adorable tot.  It made me smile to think one day, she too, may know
 the joys of motherhood.

Am I crazy, or could that be a baby bump beneath that scarf and bag?

Here's hoping...

xox,
DD

Review: Loreal's Clean Artiste Eye Makeup Remover

L'Oreal's Clean Artiste Makeup Remover
for Sensitive Eyes.$6.99 Drugstores Nationwide

I have been enormously frustrated lately with trying to find a product that will gently, and completely remove my eye makeup.  I don't care for anything that is vaguely oily.  I have tried expensive removers, cleansing wipes and remover pads with very middling results.

I picked up L'Oreal's Clean Artiste somewhere in my travels. Having been failed by the Neutrogena Extra Gentle Eye Makeup Remover pads I recently purchased, my expectations were low.

What a lovely surprise to have stumbled on an extremely effective eye makeup remover, that even removes my beloved Benefit They're Real without a tussle.

Rimmel Rocks:Exaggrerate Waterproof Eye Definer

Rimmel Exaggerate Waterproof Eye Definer
 $4-$5 at drugstores nationwide

My friends are constantly emailing me telling me about beauty products they have fallen in love with and I love them for it.

The last time I wrote about my latest blush find, (grousing mildly that it cost $24. I found this Pixi All Over Rose Radiance blush at Target after all...isn't that supposed to translate to practically free???) my old NYC roommate Lori wrote to me.

"Do you ever use Rimmel products?" she queried.  "I am using one of their powder blushes called "Cool Mauve".  It cost $4.50 and people stop me on the street to ask what I am wearing." (Interestingly, they are both London imports servicing the "mass" market and yes, and almost $20 difference is significant, if one is comparing tomatoes and to-mah-toes here).

I have used Rimmel London products, often, and they rarely disappoint.  I was in fact test driving their latest eyeliner, a waterproof, self sharpening "eye definer", with a built in smudger.  It covers all the bases of what I look for in a daily liner  and my current black liner was down to a nub, so I asked to sample it in, "noir".

Exaggerate comes in 6 shades; Sable, Noir, Deep Ocean, Purple Shock Emerald Sparkle and Precious Gold.

Unfortunately, they were out of Noir to sample and asked if I would consider trying Deep Ocean.  Of course I would!  Honestly, I really was more interested in the texture, lining capability and wearing power.