Review: Rimmel Exaggerate Waterproof Eye Definer

Rimmel Exaggerate Waterproof Eye Definer
$4.95

I must say, for a drugstore brand that is still priced like a drugstore brand, Rimmel London rarely disappoints.

I was in the mood to try a deep navy liner and I am partial to gel eye liner pencils, particularly if it glides on smoothly and stays put.

Deep Ocean #230 fit the bill perfectly.  I also think my eyes looked brighter rimmed in this pretty shade.  Too give it a hair more staying power, I did whisk a bit of deep charcoal shadow with over it with a very skinny brush.

Crop It

Crop It by divadebbi featuring bare escentuals

Ter Et Bantine crop shirt / Short shorts, $260 / Isabel Marant ankle boots / Hermès leather purse / Hermès white dial watch / Pieces rope belt, $3.84 / Bare Escentuals / Laura Geller eyeliner / Pier One Artificial Dogwood Branch

Daniel J. O'Shea: Fulfilling the American Dream

Daniel J. O'Shea
1931-2013

My Father-in-Law, Dan O'Shea passed away on Sunday after a brief illness. Though his health was bit precarious over the last few years, he and my Mother-in-Law Joan, (my discreet grammar editor) still continued to do many of the things they always did, invariably together, over the last 56 years.

Dan is a true American success story.  Born in Brooklyn to Irish immigrant parents, who stressed hard work and education, he graduated Brooklyn Technical High School.  He then served two years in the Marines and when he returned, resumed continuing his education, receiving a B.A. from Brooklyn College, an M.B.A. from Pace University and a Ph.D from N.Y.U.

An impressive accomplishment, by any standard.

He married his beloved, Joan Cleary in 1956, and went on to have a successful career as an economist at I.B.M. for 35 years, also finding time to teach Economics at Pace University.  Before his official retirement, they spent 3 glorious years in Paris while Dan worked abroad. He then consulted for a few years and before deciding to "really" retire, then promptly started his own successful stamp business.

Tout Sweet

Tout Sweet by divadebbi featuring sass bide

Sass & Bide sass bide, $1,045 / Zara heel boots / BCBGMAXAZRIA evening clutch / Benefit makeup, $38 / Max Factor cosmetic, $21 / Marc Jacobs fragrance / Background Rubber Stamps

Work to Do

Work to Do by divadebbi featuring laura geller

Coast sleeveless shirt, $120 / Donna Karan / Alaïa pleated skirt / Giuseppe Zanotti wedge sandals / Asprey alligator purse, $19,105 / Hermès vintage jewelry / Hermès pendant jewelry / Hermès hair accessory / Yves Saint Laurent / Dolce & Gabbana dolce gabbana, $37 / Laura Geller / Charbonnel Et Walker Marc De Champagne Dark Chocolate Truffles / Sia Orchid phalaenopsis, $16

Review: L'Oreal Voluminous Million Lash Excess

L'Oreal Voluminous Million Lash Excess
$9.95

Have I finally gotten lucky???  I returned the Physician's Formula Organic Wear Mascara I purchased at CVS...It's their policy to cheerfully accept returns with receipts and I hold them to it.

Still, I was drawn to the cosmetics aisle, always hoping to find that "cheap and cheerful" mascara that will add volume, length, wont clump, doesn't flake, washes off easily and doesn't have a brush sized like a turkey drumstick.

Oh, and did I mention cheap???

Tall order I know, but I keep trying...

Tres Chic

Tres Chic by divadebbi featuring a cashmere pullover

Brunello Cucinelli cashmere pullover, $1,575 / Alexander McQueen honey comb, $260 / Pour La Victoire navy blue high heels / Fendi snake print handbag / Hermès enamel bangle / La Vie Parisienne yellow gold pendant necklace / Bare Escentuals eye shadow / Chantecaille cosmetic / Trish McEvoy gel eyeliner / Pier One Artificial Dogwood Branch

The Hamptons; Home to my Heart

Scarsdale 1986 by divadebbi 

I spent a few days in my beloved Hampton's this week, home to so many happy summers, particularly summers spent on bucolic Shelter Island at my Aunt Dee and Uncle Dick's home on the water.  Family weekends were spent sunning, swimming, playing horseshoes, cooking and watching viciously competitive games of Scrabble between my Aunt and my Mom till 2 a.m.  Blood sport I assure you...

It completely charms me that places like our traditional first stop, the Bridgehampton Candy Kitchen have remained completely unchanged. There is no better ice cream on the planet.  It's the kind of place that everyone goes to, including Hampton's luminaries with their kids and no one gives them a second glance.  

A classic...

Sag Harbor Variety Store

The Sag Harbor Variety Store is another favorite of mine.  My son used to love riding the mechanical car and horse out front.  They are still there and they still cost 25 cents.

A gem...

The American Hotel, Sag Harbor N.Y.

The American Hotel is exactly as I remember it, and you can still savor a glass of good wine and  play backgammon in the evening, as we did on so many nights.

Timeless...

Review: Josie Maran Coconut Watercolor Cheek Gelee

Josie Maran Coconut Watercolor Cheek Gelee
$22

What a gorgeous product this is!  I have been searching for the perfect blush um, forever.  It's quite possible I have actually found it.

Powders can look dry and cakey, stains can be streaky and difficult to apply, creams disappear.  What's a Girl to do?

I was in Sephora a few weeks ago when these new Josie Maran Coconut Watercolor Cheek Gelee blush pots caught my eye.  Coconut water is having a moment in the skincare world, so I wasn't surprised to see it pop up in the beauty sector.

Coconut Water Cheek Gelee comes in 6 shades: Poppy Paradise, Honeymoon Honey, Pink Escape, Coral Oasis, Berry Bliss and Getaway Red.

Pink Escape had my name on it, so I removed my blush and applied it with my fingers.  The first thing you will notice is a refreshing cool sensation as it hits your skin.  That, it turns out, is the Coconut water instantly hydrating your skin.  It is also infused with Vitamin E rich Argan Oil, another Josie favorite.

Follow Up: Physician's Formula Organic Wear Mascara

Physician's Formula Organic Wear Mascara
$9.95

I so wanted to love this mascara.  My friend Linda Levy was ecstatic about her lush, long lashes and seeing was believing...

So much so,  I dashed out and purchased it at CVS that afternoon.  What could be better than a mascara that delivers amazing results and can boast about it's good for you properties:

Description

100% of the Total Ingredients are from Natural Origin.

70% of the Total Ingredients are from Organic Farming.

100% Dramatic Volume & Glamour.

OrganiSoy® Moisturizes and helps nourish lashes.

Eco-Olive® a natural antioxidant, shields lashes from harsh environmental aggressors.

Ginger Spice

Ginger Spice by divadebbi featuring chanel lipstick

Chloé sleeveless top, $340 / Etro pattern skirt / Giuseppe Zanotti high heel boots / River Island metal ring, $3.05 / Diamond pendant / Gorgeous Cosmetics palette eyeshadow / Chanel lipstick / Tocca perfume fragrance / Pier One Artificial Dogwood Branch

Fall Trend: Black & Blue

Black & Blue by divadebbi 

Our stellar buying team at Mitchells/Richards hosted a lovely breakfast trend meeting for us today.  They presented us to us their point of view of the strongest Fall trends in ready-to-wear and accessories with head to toe ensembles recreating the looks.

One that I am looking forward to wearing and selling is the "Black & Blue" trend.  It's so subtle and chic.  Look for it in prints and color blocks.  I am so on it (and in fact, was wearing it.)

Other trends that dominate are Plaids, Leather, Fur, Animal Prints, and the continuation of "studs" a la Valentino. Just a touch adds the perfect edge to many of the minimalist silhouettes that are also on trend.

Despite the heat outside, women who love fashion do shop early while the selection and sizes are most plentiful.  I'm already booking August appointments with clients and I know they will be as excited about the season as I am (203-622-0551).

Stay cool.

xox,

DD

J' Adore

J' Adore by divadebbi featuring a pink eyeshadow

Hervé Léger bandeau dress / Yves Saint Laurent strappy heels / Alexander McQueen skull box clutch / Shiseido pink eyeshadow / philosophy philosophy / Blender brush, $5.71 / Dolce & Gabbana liquid eye liner, $37 / Sisley Paris / NARS Cosmetics lip liner / Gucci fragrance / PROPELLER STUDIO Notebook, $9.20 / Sia Orchid phalaenopsis, $16

Retinol: An Interview with Dr. Erin Gilbert

Dr. Erin Gilbert

Dr. Erin Gilbert is a specialist in skin cancer prevention & treatment, cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery. She is New York based and serves as Assistant Professor of Dermatology  Suny Downstate, Director of Resident Education in Cosmetic Dermatology.  Dr. Gilbert is also the Chief of Dermatology at Woodhull Medical Center. She has appeared on the Dr. Oz show and also works closely with the team at RoC skincare.

As one of their Brand Ambassador's, I  was thrilled when they asked me if there was anything I would like the opportunity to interview Dr. Gilbert about. The topic that immediately came to mind was how best to manage Retinol during the summer months. (After Googling her gorgeous picture, I will admit that I think I would do anything she advised.)

Here are her informative answers to making healthy choices for your summer and year round skincare routine:

DD:  We now know that Retinols are one of the most effective anti-aging ingredients, but they can make us photosensitive. What do you recommend for a day cream with SPF year round?

Dr. Gilbert: Some retinol-containing moisturizers actually contain sunscreens, like RoC's Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30. I also like Elta MD UV Clear SPF 46 , La Roche Posay Anthelios ultra light suncreen fluid SPF 60 and Skinceuticals Physical Fusion SPF 50. They protect against damaging UVA and UVB rays.

DD:  Even those of us who avoid the sun can't help but have increased exposure in the summer months. Do you recommend using less Retinol, skipping days or using higher SPF?

Dr. Gilbert:  There are several ways to approach retinol use in the summer. One is to alternate days. I often tell my patients to use their retinol three days a week if they are finding that they are getting too much redness and photosensitivity. This is just as effective as using a retinol daily. Another method is to use what is called "short contact therapy." This is a tried and true method for people with sensitive skin. You apply a pearl sized amount of your retinol to the face avoiding the eyes, then rinse it off after 15-20 minutes and apply your moisturizer or sunscreen. This provides the benefit of the cellular effects without the irritation and photosensitivity. The most important thing when using a retinol is consistency. If you stop using your retinol all together you will see that your skin texture returns to baseline and my patients often experience breakouts as well, particularly during the muggy summer months.

Makeup Alley's App: We Need This

Makeup Alley's App

Today I went to CVS specifically to purchase a Physician's Formula  Organic Wear 100% natural mascara that my friend Linda Levy was gushing about.  Today I saw her lashes and I had to control myself from dashing out of work, immediately, to purchase it. (Check back for my review tomorrow.  Linda's lashes look insane!)

Linda frequently texts me from CVS and Sephora for recommendations.  I am the human equivalent of a Makeup Alley app to plenty of friends and family members. It is my pleasure to share my picks and pans and it text takes all of 10 seconds to reply.

But who can I ask???

Pink and Lavender

Pink and Lavender by divadebbi featuring a heart nail polish

Isabel Marant beaded jacket, $970 / STELLA McCARTNEY skirt, $820 / Victoria Beckham top handle handbag / Urban Decay vegan makeup brush / Hampton Sun edp perfume / Deborah Lippmann heart nail polish / Sia Orchid phalaenopsis, $16 / Pink Paisley Secret Crush Collection 12"x12" Double Sided Paper Polka...

Romper Style

Romper Style by divadebbi featuring color block leather handbags

Sacai leopard print romper / Minuet Petite ruffle shrug, $29 / Giuseppe Zanotti wedge heels / Anya Hindmarch color block leather handbag, $675 / Hermès bracelet bangle / Dolce & Gabbana lip makeup / Bobbi Brown Cosmetics beauty product

Fall Ahead

Fall Ahead by divadebbi featuring a leather purse

Brunello Cucinelli / Yves Saint Laurent suede boots / Yves Saint Laurent suede boots / Yves Saint Laurent leather purse / Kenneth Cole / Tom Ford lip stick / Serge Lutens perfume / White Orchid in Clear Vase

Review: Living Proof Satin Hair Serum

Living Proof Satin Hair Serum
$29

Did you know Jennifer Aniston, she of never having had a bad hair day fame, is now co-owner of Living Proof?  Living Proof burst onto the hair care scene a few years back having made a science of fighting frizz.

 JA is the ideal model and spokesperson.  Who doesn't covet her hair and if we buy these products, maybe, just maybe, ours will look half as good.

I was doing a Sephora run the other day in Greenwich.  I'm quite a familiar face there so when I checked out I took a pass on whatever my VIB beauty points would score me or anything else they were sampling that day.  The lovely associate would not be deterred.  "Isn't there anything I can offer you to sample???".

"Anything new for fighting frizz these days?", I asked.  Eyes, alight, she made a bee line for the Living Proof drawer and pulled out a generous sample of their latest offering, Living Proof Satin Hair Serum.

"It's incredible.  You are going to love it!".

Flawless

Flawless by divadebbi featuring tom ford

Matthew Williamson , $2,755 / Nina Ricci / Jimmy Choo shoes / Jimmy Choo / Urban Decay / Tom Ford

Poppy King: The Lipstick Queen

Poppy King Creator and Founder of Lipstick Queen

I love learning about new products and somehow, Lipstick Queen was not on my radar.  Created by a then 18 year old Poppy King, frustrated by her inability to find the perfect shade of her preferred red,  Poppy started her own company in Melbourne Australia.

20 years later, there are still gorgeous reds, but when I received a press release about her new on trend Summer Pinks from her Chinatown Collection, I asked to sample Pink Bluff a gorgeous rosy nude.

Chinatown Collection

0.25oz / 7g

US $20.00

Here is how it is described:

The original chubby lip pencil that inspired a thousand imitations, Chinatown is the pioneer of gloss-on-the-go, combining effortless application, a deliciously moisturising texture and sheer shades in vibrant brights. .

The box design and shade names were inspired by Roman Polanski's Chinatown film. Each pencil comes with a jumbo-sized sharpener. (Hugely appreciated!!!  I recently lost half of a beloved Smashbox eye pencil because it fit NONE of my sharpeners and my waste basket cannot reimburse me for my trouble.)

Tell No One : Top Sets July 11, 2013

Tell No One by divadebbi

It's always an honor to be selected by Polyvore as a "Top Set" contender. It was lovely to wake up to a stream of congratulations from my friends and supporters.

It was a happy surprise to see that mine was the lead off set, which has never happened and is usually reserved for the really "Big Girls" like my friend Rainie or Lidia-Solimosi.

Yay!

xox,
DD

 

Review: Fake Bake 60 Minutes Self Tanning Liquid

Fake Bake 60 Minutes Self Tanning Liquid
$31.99

I may have given up the sun finally but I will never give up looking for the perfect "Fake Bake".  Pale and pasty just aint my thang.

Fake Bake, the company has a complete line of both self and instant (wash off) tanners for all skin types. Fake baking is their sole focus and as such, they are one of the best in the business.

One of my favorite products is their Tanning Body Butter ($20.99.)  Though intended for the body, I use this rich, chocolaty, whipped self tanner on my face.  In fact, I apply it nightly after all my lotions and potions and apply it with a clean disposable sponge applicator. Infused with Shea butter and smelling vaguely of coconut, it's one of the more pleasant self tanners I've ever used.

I read so many product launches and reviews, that I could have sworn I read about a self tanner that you apply, shower off, and voila (!), emerge flawlessly bronzed.

I happily agreed to sample 60 Minutes Self Tanning Liquid when I heard it was a "shower off" product.  I wasn't completely prepared for the labor involved, but I was game to give it a go.

Pretty is What Pretty Does

Pretty is What Pretty Does by divadebbi featuring bracelet jewelry

Forever 21 faux leather top / Little White Lies white shorts, $42 / Isabel Marant toe cap / Versace chain strap purse / Hermès bracelet jewelry / Hermès body cleanser / Pier One Artificial Dogwood Branch

Wardrobe Staples: Summer Sandals on Polyvore

Wardrobe Staples: Summer Sandals by divadebbi 

Alexis Mabille white top / Open cardigan / RED Valentino tulle mini skirt / J.Crew leopard print wedge sandals / Trussardi leather shoulder bag / Hermès bracelets bangle / Curb chain necklace / Bead necklace / Chanel / MAC Cosmetics mineral lipstick / Balenciaga fragrance, $91 / Bobbi Brown Cosmetics beauty product

Polyvore my guilty pleasure, (that is at least less fattening than wine or dark chocolate,) frequently runs contests.  This one, was on how you style your "wardrobe staples", the summer sandal.

I have always been a enamored with leopard prints and this adorable J.Crew ankle strapped wedge immediately appealed to me. I love to pair animal prints with neutrals, crisp white and a touch of black.

I would also not hesitate to subtlety mix an animal print with something like this delicate pin dot, Red Valentino skater skirt. Finishing touches?  A gorgeous toe, a neutral bag, a mix of bold and delicate jewelry, a dash of Hermes and always, a good whiff of Balenciaga Paris.

Fini.

xox,
DD

Review: Maybelline Mega Plush Volum' Express Mascara

Maybelline Mega Plush Volum' Express Mascara
$6.59

I made a "quick" stop into Bed, Bath & Beyond on Sunday for a new broom and a hamper.

Ha!!!

As if that were possible... Has anyone ever walked out of their with less than 20 items?  I seriously doubt it.

Like a magnet, I found myself drawn to there beauty supply area, which has grown enormously over the years.  I don't think anyone, overall, can beat their prices. Though less convenient, everything is $2-$4 less than what I pay for it at CVS.

I am perennially on the hunt for a great, cheap mascara and while I am often disappointed, I never give up trying.  One day I am going to find the blue ribbon winner (and if you have one to put in the running, I beseech you to let me know.)

It's dizzying how many 'brands' are offered within existing lines.  Maybelline has close to 10.  Throw a dart and I ended up with Mega Plush Volum' Express.  Is Mega Plush getting pinned or panned???

Strike a Pose: Top Tips from a Pro

Cece's 30th Birthday Party (Second from Left)

Naki with Cece and Michele in "Diva" pose

My adorable colleague CeCe turned 30 on Saturday.  Happy Birthday CeCe! Naturally we had to celebrate with her too and we took her out for cocktails last week.  As per usual, lot of pictures were taken.  One that made us all laugh was that of my boss Michele and CeCe posing...as the "Diva".  Judging from the the howls, mine included, I'm a poser and they nailed it!!!  

 

The next day, I received a great post on Beauty Editor, one of the websites I subscribe to.  Dallas Curow, a photographer and makeup artist, bravely put together  tutorial of do' and don'ts for taking the perfect picture. 

I thought it was both informative and entertaining so I wanted to share it with my readers and of course, CeCe and Michele.  Here is the link:  http://beautyeditor.ca/2013/06/26/how-do-you-take-a-great-profile-picture-13-posing-tips-from-a-pro/

 

Take notes...and practice!!!

xo,
DD

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And don't forget to practice...

xox,

DD

Brunello Cucinelli

Brunello Cucinelli by divadebbi 

This Exquisite Brunello Cucinelli knit top is so divine! What wouldn't it look beautiful paired with? I loved it here teamed with this stunning Rochas ivory pleated silk maxi skirt, but it would look equally elegant with skinny white jeans, or a ruched Helmut Lang skirt.

Cucinellli is a master of luxe sportswear chic. Our beautiful Cucinelli women's shop at Richards and our newly installed men's shop continue to entice loyal and new clients alike...No surprise!

A master of understated chic...

xox,
DD

Olivia: Style Goddess

Olivia: Style Goddess by divadebbi featuring hermès watches

Olivia Palermo has unerring sense of style. She has a knack for looking crisp and flawless, day or night and her accessories are always something to covet.

I pray at her fashion altar...For more Oliva, visit her website OliviaPalermo.com.

xox,
DD

Tell No One

Tell No One by divadebbi featuring a faux jacket

Faux jacket, $350 / T By Alexander Wang mini skirt, $170 / Manolo Blahnik ankle strap high heel sandals / Hermès strap bag / Topshop / Nest Fragrances perfume fragrance / Hair comb, $11

Stila: Perfect & Correct Foundation

Stila Perfect and Correct Foundation
1 oz. $44

It's rare for me to finish any makeup product down to the last drop.  I'm extremely fickle and too much product comes my way to sample, for me not to have often, simply moved on.

I did however, use every last bit of my Stila One Step Bronzer.  It's the finishing touch to my makeup each day.  This gorgeous mix of bronze and rose fuses together in a lightweight cool gel.  I use one small pump in my palm and that sweep it over my forehead, nose, cheekbones and chin with a Kabuki brush.  It's an incredible product and oh so much more flattering than powder bronzers that look either too matte or worse, frosty.

Navy is the new Black

Navy is the new Black by divadebbi featuring chanel

Victoria Beckham sleeveless collared dress / Zara leather ankle boots / Givenchy imitation handbag / Tom Ford lipstick / Chanel , $98 / Herve Gambs White Couture Large Roses & Small Black Glass Cube, $115 / 56 sq. ft. Geometric Wallpaper-282-64056 at The Home Depot

Organix Soothing Teatree Peppermint Cooling Body Wash

13 oz. $9.99

What a lovely product this is!  Lately, I have been disheartened reading the ingredients of most body washes. They are loaded with synthetics and sulfates.  Do I really want to use them all over my body daily?  Not really, but I am a sucker for rich, creamy lather.

Organix was more on my radar for hair care, but I was delighted when I received Soothing Teatree Peppermint Cooling Body Wash to sample.  It comes in a generous 13 oz. bottle, guaranteeing lots of luscious showers.

Aerin's World

Aerin's World by divadebbi

 

Last year, lovely Aerin Lauder, Grandaugther of Estee, launched her own cosmetics line. Her personal asethetic is a more natural beauty, reflected in the soft colors in her palettes and tawny bronzers. 

 

An immediate success, Aerin is now taking her brand a step further, as she ventures into retailing with her first store, Aerin Southampton.   Filled with the perfect "something somethings" to wear to a cocktail party, bring to your hostess, or slip over your lips,the shop embodies a slice of Aerin's beautiful but relaxed lifestyle.

 

My dear friend Q.  was invited with a select group of bloggers to see the store and enjoy a delightful day at Aerin's summer home, formerly belonging to her beloved Grandmother Estee.

 

Tag along and see how the other 0.5% live... I'd settle for the birdhouse.

 

Happy Fourth Y'all!!!

 

 

xox

DD

 

Review: Murad Advanced Active Radiance Serum

Murad Advanced Active Radiance Serum
1 fl. oz $89

Do you use a serum as part of your daily skincare regimen?  I do.  Twice a day actually and I consider them to be one of the best advances in overall skincare in the past several years.

Why? Because a great serum will boost radiance and lock in moisture.  I have tried dozens.

No matter what they may promise, the one thing I look for is an immediate glow. If the texture is too watery, I know it's a no-glow.

Nicole: The New Face of Jimmy Choo

Nicole: The New Face of Jimmy Choo by divadebbi featuring jimmy choo

Cutie sleeve dress, $37 / Jimmy Choo high heels / Jimmy Choo / Jimmy Choo , $99 / Jimmy Choo / Jimmy Choo , $35 / Pier One Cabana Stripe Lumbar Pillow - Cobalt