Redbook Beauty Bash Goodie Bag

Any beauty event in New York City that is any beauty event worth mentioning does not let their attendees leave empty-handed.

The Redbook Beauty Bash 2010 followed suit and gifted us with these goodies, all in a reusable and handy black tote bag! Enjoy the pictures!

From left to right: - A Revlon lipstick in Coral shade , as featured in Redbook magazine. - A sample of Calvin Klein's Eternity(already in my purse!) - ELF lip gloss - Peel-Off Masque

-Bag of Popchips in Original flavor (it's already in my stomach!) - Godiva sampler pack in Milk Chocolate (also gone in my stomach...)

There were three different types: -Gold wrapper- caramel fill chocolate -Blue wrapper- sold chocolate -Red wrapper- truffle

Mouse & Memo Pad and Pen by Carolinapad. Perfect for the office!

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Esprit Flagship Store in New York City

The new Esprit flagship store opened last Thursday in New York City on 34th Street between 5 & 6th Avenue. They launched their "Love it and Leave it" campaign that encouraged early birds (the first 50) to try on any outfit, love that outfit and leave their old one in the store. (Essentially encouraging them to donate their old outfit for an all-new Esprit one valued at $150) The first people in line on Thursday morning were camped out starting MIDNIGHT! That's what I called dedicated New Yorkers!!

Esprit is best known for their casual chic clothing and this store really stepped up their retro styles. They have some great pieces in their line, and if you're looking for something more dressier, head straight to the second floor for their "Collection" items.

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Pretty City celebrates Salon Ziba's 20th Anniversary

Happy Birthday Salon Ziba!

Pretty City helped celebrate Salon Ziba's 20th Anniversary with a Girls Night Out event. They previously hosted the Beauty Sample Sale with SHAPE magazine in the fall, so I know their events are a can't miss! I had so much fun sipping drinks and eating sweet cupcakes/cookies (don't they look delish?) with friends.

In case you don't know, Pretty City provides reviews on salons and spas in major cities across the United States (ie: NYC, Chicago, Miami) and hosts beauty events as well. Be sure to check out their site before you go to any spa or salon!

Over 200 people were invited to get makeovers, hair blow-outs and manicures at Salon Ziba in New York City. There were about 10-15 stylists working hard to get everyone's hair gorgeous that night. Thanks to the Salon Ziba staff that night!

I received a personalized consultation and my hair stylist, Eiko, gave me two choices- a natural look or something more unique. I decided for the latter and got my hair curled into a sophisticated style. I was the only one with an up-do and received many compliments! This took a long time and I appreciate her detailed work and focus! She even offered me a drink because I looked thirsty! :) What a sweetheart! Everyone, request for Eiko- she is lovely and a professional with 10 years of experience! Styles ranged from simple, natural blow-outs, trimmed bangs, and curly-dos!

As a special treat, we also got a goodie bag filled with beauty products, including- Salon Ziba's own Dry Shampoo L'Oreal Professional Shampoo L'Oreal Professional Absolut Repair Revlon Lashes Moroccan oil treatment Mirabella Marble Blush Palmer's Coconut Oil Protein Pack Cafe Bustelo Expresso Coffee

You can also purchase Salon Ziba products at the salon. To get the hair-do above, my stylist used the Salon Ziba hairspray- it really made all the curls stay!

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Sephora Sundays #5: Skincare Challenge Begins!

Sephora launched its Skincare Challenge this weekend! In addition to getting a personalized skincare consultation at Sephora stores, you also receive a free 10-piece sample bag with various skincare products, including Boscia, Murad, and L'Occitane. They are also introducing a "Buy 4- Get 1 Free" rewards program. Every skincare product valued at $20 or more will help you earn 1 credit. When you have purchased, you get 1 free from participating brands! This program is only for Beauty Insiders only- so join now, if you're not in the program already!

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Clinique Bonus at Macy's Spring 2010

It's that time again...to get your CLINIQUE BONUS at Macy's! I have gotten the last two because the cosmetic bags have been so darn cute! And they did it again. I cannot resist the adorable floral packaging! I have not figured out what I want to get yet, considering that I 1) did not finish using the products I got last time and 2) did not finish using the samples either. If you have suggestions as to what I can get for $21.50 at Clinique, I would appreciate it!

This is what you will get as part of the 7-piece gift set:


They always have their famous Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion, one lipstick, and one mascara. The special cream product changes depending on what is fairly new in the brand and they almost always have eyeshadow! I'm glad that this one has an applicator too! (Last fall's did not but it did have a mirror.)


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Redbook Beauty Bash 2010

This past Saturday, I went to the Redbook Beauty Bash event at the Metropolitan Pavilion.

I had such a wonderful time this year!! And why wouldn't I? Manicures, massages, and a great goodie bag to take home! I appreciated that this year's event took place at larger venue because even though the lines were just as long, we were able to sip Solerno Blood Orange Bellinis while waiting. Plus, I was a VIP guest. :)

The entire floor was divided up into many spa treatment sections- from manicures to makeovers to eyebrow shaping. I waited for at least 40 minutes but I got the best manicure ever! Thanks to Spa Chicks on the Go who did all the spa services that day! My nails were beautiful painted in Essie's Mink Muffs- gorgeous taupe colour- and had all the extras- base & top coat and even the EZ dry treatment!

I also got a very relaxing shoulder massage. The masseuse definitely worked on my knots on my right shoulder. Blame it on my bag + lunch tote! It was about 4-5 minutes long and I wish it was longer! Interesting to see that these ladies are looking at everywhere but the person's shoulders!

The special guest of honor was Daisy Fuentes! She is coming out with a book in May called, Unforgettable You, filled with tips and tricks to make yourself Unforgettable. I was standing in line for the manicure when I took this picture of her. I was debating whether I should get off the line to get her autograph, but I didn't want to lose my spot either! It turns out she didn't stay very long, but at least I got to see her in person. She is gorgeous!!

To see more pictures of the event...

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The Fragrance Bar- where you can smell Calvin Klein's Eternity fragrances. Also got one in our goodie bags to use!

In between the Fragrance Bar and the Massage Bar

One of the give-aways during the event- a huge basket full of REVLON goodies! We also got a Revlon lipstick in our goodie bag! :)

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Degree Women Natureffects Dare to Join Forces with Nature event

Last week, I wrote about the Degree Women Natureffects event coming to town, Times Square in New York City- to be exact. It happened this morning, on March 22, and unfortunately, I was not able to make it due to my schedule but I have pictures to share from their Facebook page! (Also check out the VIDEO of the concert here.

I wish I was there to see it all happen! There definitely needs to be more "green" in the city, don't you think?

This event, Natureffects Dare to Join Forces, gave lucky attendees samples of their new products, Natureffects, new fragrant deodorants and matching body mists, similar to last year's Fragrance Collection launch. (Read review and my celebrity meeting here!) Natureeffects comes in three new flavors- Honeysuckle & Tea Tree Oil, Olive Leaf & Pink Pepper, Orange Flowers & Cranberry. All have great benefits- natural deodorizing properties with enhancing fragrances so you can smell good!

Look at how amazing Mary J. Blige looks belting out tunes from her latest album!




Check out their products on Degree Women!

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How-to: Look Red Carpet Ready!

How To Look Like You Belong on The Red Carpet

Snag yourself a big screen-worthy complexion with these expert tips

The Oscars may be over and though you won't be walking the red carpet anytime soon, you can still flaunt gorgeous skin like all of the hottest celebrities do. Just follow this expert advice to master an A-list glow. See tips

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How-to: Recreate Cameron Diaz's Red Carpet Look!

Want to get Cameron Diaz's glam look from the Red Carpets of the Academy Awards?

(Source: Merritt/Rodriguez/Getty)

Expert stylist, Vanessa Fernandez, from NYC’s Butterfly Studio Salon has these great tips to recreate this look by yourself. All you need are the items you already have in your own home! - blow dryer - small/medium round bristle brush - pin-curl clips - styling cream with hold (example: Shu Uemura's Tsai Cream) - holding spray (example: Shu Uemura's Sheer Lacquer) - 1 1/2" curling iron for long lengths only - Rubber cushioned brush (example: Mason Pearson brush)

Shampoo and Condition hair as you normally would. After towel drying the hair, apply the styling cream, beginning at the roots and making your way to the ends. For Cameron’s extra dramatic look, you may want to use a deep side part as opposed to a center part.

Begin by removing some of the excess water by blow drying sections at a time. When the hair is about 75% dry, take 1 ½” to 2” horizontal sections of the hair from the parted area and begin smoothing one section at a time with a round bristle brush. Be sure to use tension to lock in the curls.

When the hair is completely dry, take each section and roll them into pin curls and secure with your pin curl clip so the hair sets. Repeat all over the head and allow at least 5 minutes before removing the clips. Once the clips are removed, spray the entire head with a holding spray.

With your rubber cushioned brush, brush through the hair and mold the desired shape with your hands and fingers. For longer hair you may have to go back in after all this is done and curl vertical sections about 1 1/2" wide away from the face.

To ensure your hair remains glamorous all night long, reapply the holding spray to the finished look.

Voila!



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Sephora Sundays #4- Take Your Pick Deluxe Samples

Choose any one of these Deluxe Free Samples with your purchase by using the code: "CHOOSEME".

My personal pick would be Glow- Boscia's Sheer Tinted Moisturizer, perfect for getting that healthy spring glow and there's a bonus- it's got SPF sun protection!


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Issey Miyake Sample Sale NYC March 16, 2010

For ONE day only- March 16, check out the Issey Miyake Sample Sale at the Metropolitan Pavilion in New York City!

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Degree Women's Dare to Join Forces event

Last year, I attended a blogger event for the premiere of the Degree Women Fine Fragrance Event. This year, they are joining forces with Mary J. Blige to celebrate their latest collection, Degree Women Natureffects- during the first week of Spring! Event is open to the public and takes place March 22, 2010 in New York City. Details TBA! Enter to win VIP passes by SUNDAY, March 14 @ http://facebook.com/DegreeWomen

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How-to: Look Photogenic

How To Look Photogenic (Even If You're Not)

These tricks will make you look pretty in every shot, from every angle

If your Facebook picture is of your bad side, your backside or is SO two years ago, it's time to put up a new one -- stat! Get the perfect profile pic using these expert tips. See tips

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How-to: Tips for Summer Beauty

Start Prepping for Summer -- Now! These Tips Will Help

Look your best all spring and summer long with these quick hair and makeup tricks

If you’ve been waiting in anticipation for spring (heck, even summer!) to come and free you from your winter-long hibernation, it’s time to celebrate! But even with the cheerful change in weather, your schedule still might not be so pretty. Learn what quick, easy beauty tips you can incorporate to shave time off your routine. See tricks

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Forever 21- Free Shipping until March 14, 2010

A guilty pleasure of mine is online browsing! I can spend hours on websites just looking at new products that I want but I usually end up not getting them until I save to buy it later! (Or I will spontaneously buy everything I want!)

Forever 21 is a site that I love to look at because they always update their products, so how happy was I to receive this in my email- FREE SHIPPING on ANY ORDER!






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Dolce & Gabbana Sample Sale NYC March 11 - 14, 2010

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Physicians Formula Shimmer Strips Gel CreamLiner

Last month, when I reported Physician Formula came out with their new Shimmer Strip collection products, I searched high and low to get my hands on these products! I knew where the Eye Enhancing Mascara Duo was (the same drugstore where I found out about these products of course!)




It was the Get Cream Liners that I couldn't find. I went to several drugstores to find it and finally found it at a local drugstore. I was inspired by the review by Nouveau Cheap who raved about the product and since I have never tried gel eyeliners before, I thought I would try it out with Physicians Formula.



So when I saw there was one LAST package for brown eyes, I knew it was meant to be. Look how gorgeous the three colors are!!! Purple really makes brown eyes pop! :)

The packaging of the gel eyeliners looks a bit off to me- too plastic-y maybe? I guess I am more used to Physicians Formula using the organic-wear packaging. So, the bulky plastic did not look attractive at all. However, since the three eyeliners do snap in place together, I can understand why it has to be box-y.

I also recently found out via Twitter that Physicians Formula had a Tweet-Up to introduce their new products to influential beauty insiders- magazines, bloggers, celebrities. They even got some goodies- lucky!!!

Follow me on Twitter @BeautyAllThat!



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Burt's Bees Natural Toothpaste

Looking for a new, natural toothpaste? Look no further because Burt's Bees recently came out with natural toothpastes in 3 formulas- Multicare, Whitening and Kids.

The Multicare and Whitening formulas come with either fluoride or fluoride-free. I'm particularly excited about the Kids formula myself because it comes in an Orange-Wow with Fluoride and Berry Bee without Fluoride. These natural and tasty flavors will make kids excited to brush their teeth! Yay! I will personally choose the fluoride ones because it will protect my teeth against cavities.

Secret Ingredient? Cranberry Extract- This is the key ingredient used in the formulas because cranberries have a nutrient called Proanthocyanidins or PACs. Studies have shown PACs does not let "oral bacterial stick to the surface of teeth, thereby helping prevent plaque formation before it starts." Genius!

Have you tried this yet? Look for them at your nearest retailer including Safeway, Wholefoods, and more! For a complete list, check here.




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Yes To SPF by Yes To Carrots

Yes to Carrots came out with a new line of products- AGAIN! I last told you about their Yes to Baby Carrots, products developed specially for babies! :)

This time, it is Yes to SPF- skincare moisturizers with SPF for your face and body, and a lip butter with SPF in it. I cannot wait to try these out. I have super sensitive skin and I usually don't use products with SPF in them because they contain many other harsh ingredients. However, these contain zinc oxide only and are very natural! I think I will be getting the Yes to Baby Carrots 100% Natural Sunscreen SPF30 :)

Starting in April, the website will be taking online orders so you can buy from them directly! Can't wait!


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Vote for your Favorie Beauty Products on TotalBeauty.com

Vote For Your Favorite Beauty Products

The polls for the first annual TotalBeauty.com Awards are open!

We've got 59 categories of beauty products up for awards -- everything from mascara to shampoo. And while our editors are busy testing products to choose the official Total Beauty Award winner, we're inviting you guys to name the "Readers' Choice" winner. Hurry -- voting ends March 31! Go vote

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