Image: Sephora

1. Philosophy Purity Made Easy face cleanser because with out this I would not have an effective way to wash my face and remove waterproof eye liners and mascaras.

2. Neutrogena On the Spot because this is my miracle elixir and remedy for those times when my skin thinks it’s going through puberty again.

3. MUFE HD Microfinish Powder because it creates a ’soft focus’ appearance and fights my oily t-zone.

4. MUFE HD Microperfecting Primer because when I use it in conjunction with the HD powder, I don’t have to worry about my make up slip sliding away.

5. Dior Diorshow Mascara for beating out all the other mascaras I’ve tried, and I’ve tired a lot!

6. Softlips Lip Conditioner for the fun flavors, portability, lip moisturizing and SPF properties.

7. Maybelline Expert Eyes Twin Brow & Eye Pencils, even though they discontinued my favorite shade (Charcoal), these are truly the best brow pencils ever.

8. NARS Dolce Vita Lipstick because it is similar to the natural shade of my lips but better.

9. Neutrogena Moisture Oil Free Face Lotion because of all the face lotions I’ve tried, this one has always worked consistently, effectively and a big plus, it’s inexpensive!

10.  MUFE Camouflage Cream Concealer, dark circles and blemishes are banished with every use!

11. NARS Deep Throat Blush because it gives a beautiful pinky peachy glow that works for all looks.

These items are essentially my holy grails and are irreplaceable as far as my face and skin are concerned.   What are some of the beauty and skin care products are you thankful for?

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Image: © Star Stevenson

OPI Oui Bit of Red ($8) – This shade was from the France Collection and it’s a beautiful true red with a hint of shimmer.

Orly Monroe’s Red ($2+) – This colour was from the Orly Designer Collection. If there was such a thing as hot red, this shade would be it.

OPI I’m Not Really A Waitress ($8) – A classic and best selling colour from the OPI collection, this one is a deep pinky-red with  shimmer.

China Glaze Ruby Pumps ($5.99) – A gorgeous red shade with red glitter, a perfect shade for the holidays. It looks amazing on hands and toes!

OPI Vodka & Caviar ($8) – This is a classy, vintage cool toned red that’s not too in your face.

Red nail polish is classic and appropriate for any occasion. It’s a year-round colour but it’s even more popular during the holiday season. You can purchase OPI, China Glaze and Orly nail polish at drugstores, Sallys Beauty Supply and even Amazon.

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Image: Drugstore.com

I have to say I’m in love with this product! If you’re looking for an inexpensive sunscreen to use on your face (or body) this is a great choice and here’s why:

1. Price. This is extremely affordable at less than $10. You can even get it for less if it happens to go on sale.

2. Pleasant scent. There’s a bit of a scent but it’s very mild and fades after a few minutes. It’s not at all chemically smelling either and it doesn’t have that sunscreen smell which is great if you’re sensitive to that.

3.  Broad-spectrum protection – This sunblock is formulated with Parsol 1789 which protects again harmful UVA and UVB rays.

4. Oil-free – I have oily/combination skin and this worked really well for me. I didn’t have to use moisturizer and it worked very well under my make up.

5. Has antioxidants, vitamins A, C and E – Always good to have with any skin care product!  It’s also non-comodogenic and PABA-free!

6. Sweatproof, waterproof and rubproof - One of our activities was zip-lining and this definitely lasted through all that!

Convinced, yet?  My husband used it too and he didn’t have any issues or concerns with it at all. My skin is also sensitive and I didn’t break out or have any weird reactions. I’m definitely repurchasing this when I run out!  You can pick up the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer® Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 55 at drugstores or Drugstore.com

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One of those brands is Urban Decay.  I love, love, love Urban Decay 24/7 Glide On Eye Pencils! They go on like butter, don’t crease (after 8+ hours) and last forever. This holiday season, Urban Decay gives you 9 reasons to fall in love with their eye liners.

Image: Sephora

The 24/7 Super Stash ($36) kit features 4 new shades (that I’m personally dying to try out) and 5 of their best selling shades.

Corrupt (brown sparkle)
Binge (navy blue)
Eldorado (gold)
Oil Slick (black sparkle)

Zero (black)
Graffiti (bright green with silver sparkle)
Ransom (bright iridescent purple)
Rockstar (dark purple)
Stash (dark golden green)

I have the last four shades and I can tell you, they’re simply fabulous. This set is a great way to try out a few shades without making a bit commitment. Once you try these, you’ll want to grab all the other colours in their collection because they’re that awesome. Pick up this set on the Urban Decay website or at Sephora.

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Here are just of my favorite (beauty and style) things:

1. Clarisonic – Since I started using this a little over a year ago, I think my skin has noticeable improvement.
2. Pink – Not just because it’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month either!  Pink has always been a color that I’ve loved, and with so many shades, it’s flattering to nearly every skin tone.  And it’s available in clothing, lipstick, blush, and nail color.
3. Heels – I’ve always loved them, giving rise to the theory — so many heel, so little time.
4. Jeans – No matter the cut, the wash, or the label, nothing says sexy like a great fitting pair of jeans.
5. Bare Escentuals foundation – While I continue to sample everything else that comes out, I always go back to this favorite.
6. Black – My wardrobe staple, and a solid base to build from.  Having a staple like this means everything I buy will go with numerous things in my closet.
7. Ballet flats – Normally a heels gal, I broke my foot earlier this year and had to re-discover flats.  They’ll still never replace my heels, but ballet flats can pull together a casual or evening outfit.
8. Body scrubs – Although I love going to a spa for a body scrub, even using it at home helps keep all those dry bits of skin at bay.
9. Scarves – A simple and inexpensive way to change an outfit, and to turn drab into wow.  Done well, it almost makes me feel European.
10. Louis Vuitton hand bags – Especially when you can buy them at the flagship store in Paris.
11. iPhone – With all the available apps, you’ll never be far away from all the information you need.
12. Kiehl’s Silk Groom – This simple, all-purpose product help keep me well coiffed in addition to making my hair feel soft.
13. Diamond Studs – Part of any earring wardrobe, these can be worn with an evening gown or jeans.
14. Gold Hoops – The best size will depend on your face structure and hair, but every girl needs a pair.
15. Bubble Bath – The ultimate in relaxation.  Better with a book or magazine.  Even better with a glass of wine.
16. Pajamas – Whether for sleeping, lounging, or a romantic evening, I love my pajamas.
17. Massage – Nothing takes the stress out of my body like a deep tissue massage, and every time I have one, I tell myself not to wait so long before the next.
18. New York Times – A cup of coffee and the Sunday style section makes for a great weekend.
19. Hats – I used to wear them more often, and I think I’m ready to get back into wearing them again.  The classic fedora for the fall and winter may be a way to ease back into the trend.
20. Make up Bags – For travel, for home, for in the car, for at my desk, I love pretty little bags to keep my necessities in.
21. Animal Print – I wasn’t sure that I could wear this trend, but there are so many different choice that everyone can find a way to pull it off.
22. Champagne – The perfect thing to hold in your hand when your wearing a little black dress.
23. Mascara – Some how, even if I’m not totally pulled together, mascara makes it look like I am.
24. White shirts and blouses – They always look fresh, go with everything, are easy to accessorize, and with enough styles and fabrics that you can’t own enough.
25. Prada Infusion D’Iris perfume – My current go-to fragrance.
26. Paris – Fashion capital of the world, and where women don’t get fat.
27. Kindle – To read all that great chick lit and fashion biographies.
28. Pedicures – My feet are not terribly attractive, but a good scrub and polish gets them sandal-ready.
29. InStyle – Probably my favorite fashion magazine.
30. Splendicity – Reading every day keeps me up on the newest designers, latest trends, and all the new products coming out.

What are your favorite things?

Photo credit:  SXC

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1. Stop by your favorite makeup counter for a makeup consultation. It’s also great if you start to build a rapport with someone, because then they will let you in on little secrets and hopefully won’t push so much with the hard sell.
2. Keep an eye out for free samples. You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a mini-makeover – and if you like something, then you know you’re going to use it once the purchase is made.
3. Ask for advice from your friends. They know you better than anyone, so I’ll bet they will have a few ideas about how you could expand your makeup repertoire.
4. Change the order of application. I discovered a few months back that doing foundation, then concealer, then powder works better for me (versus concealer first). There are other ways you can make changes which will offer a slightly different take on your same old look.
5. Time the change for a season shift. Most makeup brands will come out with new products for Spring, Summer and Fall. This is a great time to find new palettes that are perfect for the weather in current colors.

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Here are two that I plan on using – and maybe you will too!

1. From DSW, one of my favorite shoe stores for fashion and value, is a $10 off coupon on any purchase over $50.  And any gal worth her salt can spend over $50 at a shoe store!  The coupon is valid online or in the stores, giving you two shopping options.  The promotion code is GETTEN, or you can print out the coupon and take it to the store with you.  I just bought a couple pair there last week (okay, it was three pair), but since I had my eye on a couple more, this is a great excuse to go back!  Expires April 20th.
2. The other coupon is from one of my favorite cosmetics stores, Sephora.  This coupon offers 15% off your entire purchase, and again can be used in the store or online.  The offer is for Beauty Insiders only, so if you’re not a member you’ll need to sign up.  Expires April 21st.

These are coupons I can put to good use!

Image credit:  SXC

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Here are the Top 10 products and fashion trends that are shaping who I am as we head into Spring:

1. Clarisonic – I love the way this makes my skin feel clean and fresh, and I think it’s help out with some of my wrinkles, too.
2. MAC lipsticks and glosses – I have dozens of these in my makeup case, and now that I’ve been checking out spring fashions, I’m sure I’ll have to add a couple more.
3. Phyx Overnight Repair Masque by Kronos – This overnight treatment is a lifesaver for my dry, curly hair.
4. Shoes.  All kinds of shoes.  Because of a fracture in my foot, I haven’t been able to wear heels for awhile.  Can’t wait till things are fully healed up, and I can put on a sexy pair of stilletos again.
5. Black.  This is my wardrobe basic color.  Multiple pairs of black pants, skirts, dresses and, of course, shoes.  It makes buying coordinating pieces and accessories VERY easy.  And since I travel frequently, it helps a lot when it comes to packing light.
6. Diamond hoop earrings.  I wear them for dressing up as well as dressing down because combining two great fashion trends – diamonds and hoops – just makes so darned much sense.
7. Animal and snake skin prints.  Must be worn in moderation, but a great pair of python shoes, a leopard print skirt, or a zebra bag can add some pizzazz to a black outfit (see #5).
8. Soft comfy pajamas.  Pajamas aren’t just for sleeping any more!  I love the soft cotton styles that are perfect for lounging around the house in the evening.  Or maybe even for a day spent at home blogging.
9. Red.  It’s sexy, men love it, and it I keep in the blue-red family, I can wear it well.  I’ll be looking for some fun spring pieces and accessories to complement my wardrobe.
10. Wii Fit.  I just got it hooked up, and I have to modify things a bit until I can put consistent weight on my bum foot, but exercise and healthy habits should always be in style!

How about you?  What are the products and fashions that you love?

Happy Valentine’s Day!

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So here’s my list of 10 Beauty & Style New Year’s Resolutions for 2009:

1. I will take my make up off every single night.  No matter how tired I am, my skin will thank me for taking a few extra minutes to take care of it.
2. I will find a foundation (or two) that I truly love and stick with it.  No more hopping for choice to choice and settling rather than loving my choice.  I will make the effort to find what I love and what my skin loves and become a loyal user.
3. I will find a new hairstyle.  I’ve pretty much been doing the same thing for awhile now, although I have cut my hair a little shorter in the past month or so.  It’s time for another change.
4. I will invest in classic, quality wardrobe pieces.  Sure, I can still have a few fad clothes, but they must be inexpensive and able to be paired with lots of things already in my closet.  The good stuff lasts and is worth the price.
5. I will go through my closets and give away everything that no longer fits or that I no longer wear.  Most of my clothes are in great condition, and there are lots of worthwhile causes that could use a donation.  This goes for my shoes, too.
6. I will find a perfect little black dress. 
7. I will sleep more and get better quality sleep.  I look better and feel better when I well rested, and although it’s a real challenge with my day job, it’s something that I need to get a handle on.
8. I will buy a new bathing suit.  The very worst type of shopping for me, but I can’t put it off another season.  If it’s one that is comfortable and that I think I look good in, price just doesn’t matter.
9. I will find more reasons to dress up.  What fun is it to have all sorts of great clothes if I don’t leave the house and wear them.  Sometimes it’s just too easy to be lazy and hang around in jeans all the time.
10. I will get back into the habit of reading beauty and fashion magazines.  There are lots of good ones out there, so it’s time to find some new ones in addition to the old favorites.  By keeping up to date on trends and styles, I’ll be able to pull together myself and my wardrobe in a ways that perfect for me.

How about you?  Have you made any beauty and style resolutions?

Image credit:  SXC

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