Paris Perfume Workshop - How To Blend Your Own Perfume

Is there a more indulgent beauty purchase in Paris than a custom-blended perfume? The afternoon was the most luxurious of DIY classes, a Paris perfume workshop in the posh neighborhood of the 16th arrondissement. I learned the basics of creating a scent from one of the famous "noses" of the industry, Marina Jung-Allegret.

Marina has created signature fragrances for many brands and served as a consultant for Givenchy and Christian Dior. She taught the workshop in her stylish flat as part of her L'ABC du Parfum school. She also leads seminars for companies and teaches marketing as well.

The key points in blending a fragrance? You should have 2-3 top "notes" that define your scent. General categories include types like floral, Oriental, spicy and green. You could have many "notes" though. Florals include flowers like cassis, Lily, and bergamot that also are the quickest to fade. More woodsy and heavier notes include ingredients like oak moss and cashmere wood that stay in the scent the longest. Then you have warm notes like vanilla or medium weights like exotic fruits, green tea, powdery iris, etc. Ideally, you have a blend of different elements that make your perfume have a complex character from the first impression to last.

While natural essential oils are used, many ingredients have been synthesized as standard industry practice since the late 1800s. This is particularly necessary for popular ingredients like musk which originally required the killing of animals to obtain. Synthetic ingredients are also necessary for stability.

My first blend, I tried a mix of things I thought would smell good, like bergamot, blackberry, mandarines and violets. It turned out to be far too sweet and fruity. With Marina's help, I learned how to round out a fragrance and add elements I didn't expect to achieve my final blend. The "Mlle. Fabuleux" fragrance ultimately contains a combination of bergamot, cashmere wood, musk, clove, melon, green tea, mandarin and pink pepper for what Jung-Allegret categorized as "Fresh/Spicy".

The class was a small group, there were two ladies from New Zealand, one from Mexico, a local Parisian and myself. Marina taught in both English and French. Make a day of it as this area of Paris was perfect for shopping and finding treats before and after the workshop. You can book your Paris perfume workshop through the L'ABC du Parfum site by contacting them directly. However, I had originally booked through Tripadvisor's Viator site because I had found a $10 discount code online. You can use the Viator $10 code to book this and other excursions too.

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NYWIFT Gala: Celebrating Designing Women in Film and Television

I was fortunate to attend the NYWIFT gala celebrating the achievements of women in film and television Monday. Costume designer Sarah Edwards, hair stylist Rose Chatterton and makeup artist Anita Gibson were honored for their work. Gender disparity is rampant throughout the entertainment industry. It was an empowering night to watch successful women encouraging others to support and mentor other creative women.

Sarah Edwards is the costume designer behind the recent Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows. Star Will Arnett was hilarious in character as "himself" in his speech about Edward's talent as he took an interest in anyone who makes him look. Her favorite look for the movie was the armor-like costume for Shredder (far right). She is also behind the costumes of Michael Clayton, Last Days of Disco, The Devil's Advocate among others. She also oversaw the looks for The Secret Life of Walter Mitty with Ben Stiller. She remarked the subtle difference in dressing Stiller in frumpier versions of the same outfit in his real life scenes versus the sharply tailored versions of his fantasy sequences to define the character.

Legendary actor Ray Liotta remarked on the talent of hairstylist honoree Rose Chatterton in his presentation. He noted that in the initial reviews of his show Shades of Blue, the press actually complimented his hair in their articles. That's memorable hair. In my chat with Chatterton, she noted the most challenging days are the long ones, chasing down talent in humidity and wind. She actually looks to her clients for discovering the best in hair products. They are often gifted new beauty items and then share their favorites with her. In addition to the show Shades of Blue, she created the retro looks for Factory Girl and Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull.

Anita Gibson was a powerhouse of energy at this event. Her favorite beauty products are to work with nails. She initially succeeded in film by excelling in films like Inside Man and Tyler Perry movies as an expert in working with diverse casts. That became more poignant when she worked on Kerry Washington playing Anita Hill in HBO's Confirmation. In the 1990s, cosmetics options for women of color were limited. Gibson reflected that in creating her look for Washington during the testimony scenes. She illustrated the stress Anita Hill's character endured in using waning lipstick and a lack of facial makeup as Hill's testimony wore on.

The entire creative team in costume, hair, and makeup for the tv program The Affair was honored at the NYWIFT awards. Star Maura Tierney presented the award to the enthusiastic ensemble. What is subtle, but fascinating about this show is that the same storylines are told from multiple characters perspectives. This requires major diligence and precise creative choices to style onscreen.

Costume, hair, and makeup are always admired when the project is a fantasy or time period. However, helping to build the characters for realistic situations and real life is more intricate with less appreciation. I noticed that all the women honored this night had that in common. The characters they styled had to be believable in all scenes, even if they were the same scenes shot differently.
NYWIFT, the New York Women in Film and Television is proof that there are many hard-working, successful creatives in the field. Entertainment may be a cutthroat industry, but talented people are happy to prop each other up.

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Ms. Fabulous Mother's Day Gift Guide

I'm off to visit my family in Toronto. With me as always, I am bringing gifts to the wonderful women in my life. It will be Mother's Day, so my childhood friend, sister and actual Mom will be getting some of the goodies here.

Citizen watches are fast becoming a favorite of mine. This stainless steel Citizen Ladies' Diamond one is a posh treat for Mother's Day that I have decided to keep for myself, (sorry Mom!) I just fell in love with it. I am super picky with my watches. I like them sleek and dressy enough for the most formal occasion, but can look great with jeans too. I really groove on their Eco-Drive technology, not just for the eco-friendly aspect but because I am lazy and hate to change batteries. 

Mom loves color. MyWalit has a great collection of brightly colored wallets with beautiful leathers and color-block design straight from Italy. I thought she could use a compact wallet ($68) with lots of pockets to brighten her purse.

Those of you who follow me a lot know that I also moonlight as an embellishment designer for other brands. If you wanted a pretty accessory for yourself, I have been producing one-of-a-kind embellished headbands, cuff bracelets, necklaces and belts under the label Weng Meng Design Studio. Supermodel Carol Alt and actress Genevieve Rodriguez have worn them, why don't you take a look? 

I was introduced to DCL Skincare  by Ms. Fab contributor Geraldine. It was developed with serious science to treat your skin at multiple levels. One of the few drawbacks with looking young for your age (runs in the family, don't hate me) is you still get breakouts long after you should have stopped. The "Build Your Beauty" ritual function on the website is very helpful in finding the products for specific for your needs. Now that I have tried a few, I am a convert. I brought up the Spot Therapy ($32) product for my family to try.

I brought Modern Doll Cocktail Lab enhancements ($10) for the tired Moms this weekend to spike their coffees and teas with. Each variety was inspired by a strong woman in the arts of an earlier generation.  Cocoa Canelle is a chocolate and cinnamon bark infused liqueur with fashion icon Coco Chanel as the muse. The Vicious Purple was inspired by writer Dorothy Parker. The bitters are made from flowers like hibiscus, lavender and elder-flower.

I recently went a little crazy during the Bauble Bar sale. The dramatic crystal necklace is going to my Mom. She is going to look amazing in it. 

For my sister, she has more Minimalist taste. This delicate Ilana Ariel necklace is elegant and small enough not to get in the way of her hectic day.

The ladies in my family love our hair products. I was already a big fan of Strivectin skincare and jumped at the chance to try their haircare too. I already blazed through the shampoo and conditioner. Dry hair and annoying wispy little baby hairs run in my family, the Bodifying Radiance Serum is going to be our secret weapon. Since my family travels a lot, the UV protection helps too.

Mom is traveling to China, Lithuania and Russia this year. I got her this trio of Diane Von Furstenburg leather pouches ($70) for her toiletries, vitamins and jewelry. Three of them in super bright colors are nestled into one another like Russian Dolls (felt appropriate). They are very cute on their own as a clutch bag and easy to maneuver in a filled suitcase on a big trip. Hope she loves them!

Ok, what is everyone else getting the Moms in their life? If you're a Mom, treat YOURSELF. You more than deserve it. Happy Mother's Day!!!

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Winter Skin Hacks for NYFW

Winter snow is officially back in NYC right in time to freeze out my NY Fashion Week again. I am excited to work with Walmart.com on how I incorporate Dove Body Wash into my routine. My skin takes an absolute beating during this time of year and the lack of sleep during NYFW does not help. When my skin is dry and itchy, it is a distraction when I am in the photographer’s pit trying to shoot.

The very first thing I do in the morning is shower Dove’s Deep Moisture Nourishing Body Wash. I have used variations of this since college. My skin gets flaky and tough when it gets cold. Over the years, I have had bouts with skin rashes as well where allergies and sensitivity cause hives to flare up. Dove’s moisturizing body washes are much better than soap or shower gel because your skin retains the moisturizing effects after you towel off. As one of the #1 dermatologist recommended products, the gentle cleansers don’t irritate my often already uncomfortable skin.

Do you see how much snow I got during the last snowstorm? I sometimes fantasize about jumping into a giant tub of lotion in the winter. Instead, I make sure to implement super ingredients like Moroccan Argan oil in my routine. Having purchased some Argan oil directly from Berber women who hand-ground the nuts from the Moroccan mountains during a 2008 trip, I was a little spoiled on this. No longer having access to this hookup, Dove Dry OilMoisture is my savior as it has an advanced formula with  Moroccan Argan oil infused.

Other tips for staying soft in the winter? Scrub, scrub scrub. I have a vibrating facial brush, giant bath brush and pumice stone for my feat. The Dove Deep Moisture Nourishing body wash lathers beautifully with a brush. Exfoliating first helps other products work better. My last tip is to wear warm socks immediately after moisturizing my feet.

So there you have it, my winter beauty regimen for NYFW during the winter.

 This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Walmart.com and Dove.

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Easiest Nail Art Resolutions

I am a lazy nail artist. My adventures of creating masterpieces in nail polish, manicure nail art are contained in what I can accomplish during a good episode of Scandal or Empire. Still, I am happy to report that even the most simple of efforts on my part get a lot of compliments from fans who think I spend a lot more time than I do. My favorite trend this year as undoubtedly been the "negative space" look. Not only does this use less nail lacquer, it is much more forgiving when the mani grows out.

Here are my top techniques for lazy nail art:

The Stipple (top):
I use this look when I can't decide what colors to choose or have a general wardrobe palette I want to accommodate for awhile. You don't need a "nail dotting" tool. I use a bamboo cocktail pick. You can snip it to the size you want.

I start with a clear Sally Hansen Double Duty base coat then choose 3-4 colors, I then dip and dot on my nails, usually in an ombre or asymmetrical fashion. This leaves a large margin for error, just re-dot or reposition as needed. The color you want to dominate is applied last. Add a top coat and you're done.

Glitter Ombre:
This works with negative space nails or fully polished nails. This is great for people who aren't anal-retentive enough to make sure their nails are meticulously smooth and naked before they start. polish or base coat your nails. Then use your favorite glitter and smash lightly halfway up and apply heavily at the tip with extra coats the further up you go.

photos by Mariana Leung

The Chevron:
Another one for indecisive people. I take my two current favorite colors. I paint a diagonal swatch on one side of the nail, then finish with the other side in the second color, leaving a negative space triangle where your half moons are. Make sure you finish all nail art with a good top coat.

Funky French Mani:
Instead of a naturalistic white nail coat for the tips, I use bright colors or a double line of metallic and jewel tone colors. It might not follow the shape of the nail exactly, I might do a notch or drag the polish into a wavy patteI'mrn. As far as I am concerned, anything beyond a naked manicure is nail art (my minimalistic tendencies only go so far).


That FlashTat Mani:
This is the most 'difficult" nail art I attempted in 2015. I was obsessed with metallic jewelry tattoos from Miami Fashion Week Swim. I purchased many sheets of these and shared them with anyone who allowed me to apply them. I also used them as easy embellishments on my nbrails. I started with the base coat again and maybe a pop color across the white of the nail. I then stuck tiny motifs of jewelry tattoos in random patterns on my nail. I finished them off with good top coat.

There you have it. You have all of my nail art secrets. I love everything from glitter nail polish and metallics, to the richest hues known to man. I love Sally Hansen for glitter, OPI Nail Lacquer for the rich dark shades, butter LONDON for the bright summery ones.

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Best Tutorials for Day of the Dead

Feliz Dia De Los Muertos. I know the aesthetic of this holiday has become trendy in recent years (we called it awhile ago). Remember first that it is a happy day that celebrates the spirits of our loved ones who have come back to join us. It has roots in Mexico, Aztec and Catholic culture.

Sugar Skull Makeup Tutorial
The most popular tradition for the style set is the sugar skull makeup. It is a particularly artistic look where you can get elaborate with all sorts of embellishments and motifs. Youtube is full of sugar skull makeup tutorials if you need inspiration.

via Tablespoon.com

I always loved watching artisans craft the actual sugar skulls. It looked so delicate and sweet. You can try your own with these sugar skull instructions. 

The women who participate in traditional Dia de los Muertos celebrations don't stop at the makeup. The traditional Catrina Costume includes elegant outfits of long ruffled dresses, lace and a decorated wide-brimmed hat. You can style our own version with this Catrina costume tutorial.

Ofrendas
Part of celebrating your past loved ones is about enticing them to share festivities with you. This is demonstrated with extravagant ofrendas. This is an altar of offerings honoring them and that includes Pan de Muertos, a sweet bread decorated with dough bones, salt. marigold flowers, paper picado decorations and mementos of the deceased. You can create your own with these Dia de los Muertos altar instructions.

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Thierry Mugler's Stars, Angels & The Source

It was a star-filled night. Thierry Mugler unveiled The Source at Tuesday’s InStyle Magazine summer social. It was an impressive space-age looking fountain dispensing the company’s top fragrances.

When Thierry Mugler’s Angel perfume debuted, it was the must-have fragrance that every one of my fashion school friends and I had to have. The fashion designer was already a constant source of inspiration to us in our design sketches.  We were in love with the innovative star-shaped cut glass bottle that was so innovative at the time. It is still one of my favorite bottle designs.

In the 1990’s, it seemed to be a decade of “clean” fragrances and androgyny. There were a lot of watery scents that were chic for its time, but not sexy. Then Angel came along. It was described as the first “gourmand” fragrance. This was a term in the beauty industry that would become very important as countless brands followed Mugler’s lead in the years to come. The “gourmand” aspect of this perfume referred to the notes of vanilla, caramel, berries and bergamot. These were aromas associated with food rather than things like flowers. The perfumers figured out these flavors were already aphrodisiacs in food, why not the body?

At the summer social, representatives treated guests to mini versions of the Alien and Angel perfumes filled from the fountain. The futuristic look of the bottle and fountain takes its inspiration from 18^th Century luxuries. Wealthy aristocrats would collect intricately carved crystal bottles filled with their favorite scent. Marie Antoinette even indulged in her personal perfume fountain. Now super-fans of Thierry Mugler can enjoy a version of that by refilling their bottles at The Source fountain. It’s an eco-friendly way to prolong your time with your favorite bottle.

Reach for the stars and you might find your Angel.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Single Edition Media on behalf of Thierry Mugler

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Viniq Hosts a Ruby Spa Day

Day Two of Ms. Fabulous Cocktail Week. I was treated to an indulgent afternoon at the Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa in Midtown Manhattan. The host was Viniq Ruby, a gorgeous blend of vodka, berry, Moscato and citrus.

The theme of course, was ruby red. Ruby is my birthstone. Macarons looked like they were encrusted with crushed rubies. Sparkly jello shots made with Viniq looked like little jewels. We were treated to a multi-course cocktail tasting to feature the flavors of Viniq. I personally love the original in purple and the now the new Ruby version in red in the bottle itself. Its' signature look is an iridescent shimmering texture in the bottle as a result of mica being added. This is a sparkling additive usually found in candy and pastry but this is the only brand that featured it in the drink. I'm

The Red Door Spa is one of my favorite places in the city. The posh treatment rooms were like a maze of relaxation. Mini massages got everyone into a zen mood. Guests took turns receiving manicures in different shades of red. The final treatment was to get a fabulous braid creation.

If you're ready to indulge at home (and I will) here is a recipe for the "A-List" cocktail that I am grabbing for up top:

2 oz. Viniq Ruby
3 oz. champagne
Lime

Pour into a champagne glass and served chilled.

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5 Stylish Earth Day Finds

Happy Earth Day my loves! Being a fashion and beauty fan isn’t always the most eco-friendly attitude. Frankly, it shouldn’t be Earth Day, but an on-going approach to your sartorial choices.

Here are my favorite Earth Day Fashion and Beauty finds:

1. The Bamboo Shirt
I was introduced to P3 Bamboo shirts through the team at designer Zang Toi. Bamboo is a sustainable fiber. It is hardy, doesn’t need pesticides, a little water, and little space to grow.  It isn’t just the fiber itself that makes it eco-friendly. The breathability and anti-microbial qualities mean it needs to be washed less. Less laundry saves water and potential toxic cleaning ingredients from that water as well.

There is a good selection of basic silhouette tops and colors. They are super soft so I can totally see why fans (like myself) are happy to wear these every day as my basic shirt. I was pleasantly surprised at their affordability too.

2. Health Gel Manicures
My girlfriend loved getting gel manicures. Since becoming a conscientious Mom, she has shied away from nail lacquers because of all the toxic ingredients involved when you put it on AND when you remove them. I was just introduced to Bio Seaweed Gel polish. It doesn’t have any of the “big 5” (no formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, BHA, solvents, etc.) It doesn’t need a special lamp; you just cure your nails in natural sunlight.  This is the healthier option of gel nails, and they hail from my childhood suburb of Scarborough, Ontario. The brand has a gorgeous range of trendy colors and sparkly shades. Your mani doesn’t chip for two weeks like your traditional gel manicure, but unlike the traditional job, it only takes 5 minutes to take it off.

3. Alkemie Reclaimed Jewelry

Love artisanal jewelry? One of the best ways to be green is to upcycle gold. The husband-and-wife makers behind Alkemie Jewelry used reclaimed metals and manufactured locally in Los Angeles. They make sure each piece is lead and nickel free and are committed to running a sustainable design company. They cast pieces like this stunning Gingko leaf bracelet through the traditional lost-wax process.

4. Angela Roi Gives Back

How cute is the handbag? One of my fellow Twitter #stylechat buddies introduced me to Angela and Roi. They were entrepreneurs who met in college and had mutual interests in fashion and philanthropy. The created a stylish handbag brand that is affordable (almost all styles were $150 or under) well made and vegan. But not only that, each bag and color also corresponds to a cause that they contribute to. It makes you feel good to shop stylish and know you are helping a worthy cause as well. 

5. Come Visit Olsenhaus

Striped heels for spring? Yes, please. Olsenhaus makes these fab shoes from cotton, cork, and composite rubber. Founded by a vocal advocate on behalf of animal rights, Elizabeth Olsen created the company to provide stylish options made with healthy vegan materials and ethical manufacturing. 

So now you see that you can be a fashionista and care about your planet. Go ahead and check out my guide for 10 ways to green your wardrobe for sustaining Earth Day style all year. Now go hug a tree or something. 

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Men's and Women's Fragrance Launches for Spring

Someone smells good. I was able to enjoy several fragrance launches in the last month to coincide with fashion week events. Tommy Bahama unveiled both a men's and women's Island Life fragrance at an intimate event that took us out of the winter and gave us the beach.

They had a paddle boarding simulator for us snow-bound fans to practice surfboard skills. A sand castle artist created fanciful structures to perch the fragrances on top of. Guests sipped orchid topped fruity rum drinks. Fellow writers & my Aussie peep Brian all agreed that the Tommy Bahama Island Life for Him cologne was our favorite of the two. It had a clean, light, spicy scent. The bottle had a rattan design to emulate a posh beach villa. The women's fragrance had more of a fruity, floral scent. I loved the hammered gold topper and ridged glass bottle that looked like shutters on a beach house.

 A very different aesthetic was presented by Issey Miyake City Blossom. This was a launch that collaborated with Parisian street artist Mademoiselle Maurice.  The artist created intricate origami installations at the boutiques in each of their launch cities to show man-made flowers blooming in all the urban centers. Quite a trip away from the tropical oasis of the scents above.

My L'eau d'Issey perfume was the fragrance of my 1990's. I enjoyed testing out their update which had a similar spire shaped bottle to the 90's original. It had notes of the former, but with a bit more edge with cedar and pink peppercorn, freesia and magnolia.

So much of a scent's identity lies within the lifestyle you aspire to. One brand exuded a relaxed paradise away from the urban hustle. The other brand celebrated the art and culture that flourishes in it. Whatever path in life you choose to lead, there is a men's or women's fragrance to let you immerse yourself in it.

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Tarte Cosmetics NYFW Survival Kit

The style marathon that is New York Fashion Week begins now. If you are working the fashion shows you are expected look fabulous at all hours. This must be achieved through harsh NYC winter weather in heels while your skin takes a beating. To look and feel good, you can rely on tarte cosmetics a beauty haul to get you through the week.

My workday during fashion week usually lasts 14 hours at the end of the runway and another four when I get home. My eyes are TIRED! Tarte maracuja oil is a key ingredient of the Maracuja C-brighter eye treatment. Maracuja is a fruit high in fatty acids that help hydrate your eye area. Vitamin C brightens and rejuvenates.

While in the photography pit, my wardrobe is forced to be more practical than sartorial. The one area where I can go wild is my makeup. I love creating a dramatic eye look with a collection of my favorite colors. The tartelette Amazonian clay matte palette actually holds all of my favorite hues. They also contain vitamin E that act as an antioxidant and clay ingredients for a truer pigment.  For a great cat’s eye look, make sure you have liquid eyeliner. The Lights, Camera Action Lashes is packed with vitamin B5. Don’t forget good waterproof mascara that can fend off sweat and snow.

The other thing you can’t do without during fashion week is a good moisturizer. I barely sleep, so I really need a multi-tasking product. Tarte’s Amazonian Clay BB Tinted Moisturizer should be the MVP of your routine. It is packed with good things like Amazonian clay, chamomile and vitamins A, C and E to nourish your skin. It is made without oil, so it will not feel greasy or heavy. While you run around town between fashion shows the 20 SPF sunscreen protects your face.

I know that tarte cosmetics are a trendsetter in colors and looks. What makes them more than a fad? They have a commitment to cruelty free makeup products that use intense natural ingredients. I like that their community of tartelettes share everything from makeup look tutorials to supporting health initiatives and the environment. This is a company that knows classic beauty that applies to you inside and out.
Presented by tarte cosmentics

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Alternative Valentine's Day Gift guide

Yep, February 14^th is coming up fast. I’m not going to give you’re a Valentine’s gift guide full of the usual clichés. This gift guide with a fashion and beauty twist is for singles, lovers, BFFs or anyone you heart in your life.

Sexy gifts, stylish gifts, think outside the "box" for Valentine's 

Instead of gimmicky boxers for guys, how about this illustrated XOXO t-shirt ($28) designed by up-and-coming artist Jeremy Leung. The detailed graphic looks like all the twisted guts and nerve endings that go into love. 

Instead of flowers, my particular fashion crowd would prefer to receive artisanal bourbon. Come on, you know you would too. Four Roses Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey ($105) delivers a sexier result than a bodega bouquet ever would.

If you're going to give jewelry, forget some twee little locket. Send her a real message of how you would rip out your heart to give it to her with TNine Design's anatomically correct heart organ necklace ($44). 

You can't get away from 50 Shades of Grey references this holiday. If you must, do it with style. Agent Provocateur has been doing posh kinky fashion for years now. This luxurious leather cat o'nines whip ($590) features hand plaited strands and gold hardware. It looks so elegant that you could easily take it out of your purse like any other fashion accessory and strike the nearest boy toy.

Speaking of leather. If you're not up to a full on leather corset, how about suiting up your bubbly instead? Seriously, how much do you covet Le Snob's Le Champagne case ($395) you can carry around like a handbag? I actually drooled when I saw this one.

Is it not Valentine's Day without chocolate? Spare the calories and make yourself pretty with the Too Faced Chocolate Bar Eye Shadow Collection ($60). It has everything you need to craft the perfect boudoir look; from smokey to cat's eye.

Guys, candles can make any location look more romantic. However, no man wants to fuss with tea lights and cheesy candle holders. You need the Malin + Goetz Cannabis Candle ($52). It has an intoxicating scent of fig, pepper and patchouli to set the mood.

No one says you need a significant other to feel pampered on Valentine's. Lush Cosmetics can provide all the Prince Charming you need with an entire spa line to sweep your off your own feet.

Do you picture yourself dragging femme fatale nails down someone's back? Christian Louboutin's Rouge Nail Color ($50) will give you the sexy manicure you want.

So there you have it. Unusual, sexy Valentine's gifts you can give to yourself, your mate, object of your affection or your best friends. If you are an admirer, you can always send some this way too!

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DIY Beauty Hacks From Your Kitchen

I made my second appearance on the Dr. Oz show this week. I demonstrated the simple beauty hack of reviving your mascara with your microwave. I thought I might share a few more additional DIY beauty tricks you can perform in your kitchen.

Dried Mascara

Stick your old mascara in a microwave safe mug filled halfway with water. Put it in the microwave for about 15 seconds and check your mascara texture. If you have some contact lens solution, add a few drops of that as well.  It’s not a permanent fix, but will give the mascara an extra day of use in an emergency. My girlfriend Claribel also just let me know that you can use mascara to cover grey hairs and tame flyaways!

Tea Bags for Puffy Eyes

Green tea is the most soothing type for this. After your used tea bags are cool, place them on your closed eyes for a 5-10 minutes to reduce puffiness and swelling. No tea? The classic of cucumber slices cools down stressed eyes too.

Sweet Scrub

Some of the hottest  beauty ingredients right now are coconut oil and honey. Make a scrub out of both of those by adding brown or turbinado/raw sugar. Massage this scrub on dry skin next to your bath tub (it IS super sticky) so you can rinse afterwards without making a mess! Hot water when you rinse can also help melt down the ingredients so they don’t clog your drain.

Manicure Prep

While you have your coconut oil out (or olive oil), warm it to slightly above room temperature and rub on your cuticles. In the winter, my fingers really take a beating, so moisturizing them before a manicure keeps them soft.

Citrus Toner

Again with your coconut oil, you can also make a toner and lightener for your skin by mixing it with some fresh lemon juice. I learned from a fellow guest on the Doctor Oz show that you can get more juice from a lemon by putting it in the microwave for 20-30 seconds first. Be careful that you don’t get it in your eye though!

What are your favorite beauty hacks?

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New Year's Eve Sparkle Style

I am READY to celebrate the end of 2014 with the most sparkly New Year's Eve I can muster. I collected all of my crystal-studded, "bling" worthy, glittery fashion accessories for an outfit that suits the sparklers of Times Square. 

My look was inspired by a recent gift of a dazzling Swarovski studded case for my Samsung Galaxy Note 3. I know that sounds lame, but for a blogger/social media obsessed gal like myself, it's like a diamond necklace for your best friend. I next added an elaborate jeweled flower headband from BCBG Max Azria. I am not quite the tiara type, but the smoky jewels was a pretty compromise. My oversized rhinestone bracelet and ring are from a cute wholesale boutique on 28th street. They are not ready for the spotlight, so if you love them, you can get them through me.

 My nails are from Sally Hansen's glitter saturated Purple Gala shade. I have their entire range of long lasting, quick dry and nail art shades. The real MVP for my manicure though is their Double Duty Base and Top Coat. With all of the abuse, my nails go through from slamming the keys on my laptop or sewing and embroidery, this product keeps my manicure intact much longer that I would have expected.

My sequined top is a version of the Alice & Olivia version available now.  I had fun playing with the sparkly Moondust eye shadows from Urban Decay with some MAC Cosmetics paint to hold the colors in place on my lids. With pre-cocktail patience, I finished  with some winged eyeliner from Rimmel London that I received in my Influenster VoxBox.

I am now ready to indulge in some sparkling cocktails made with Smirnoff's Whipped Cream edition Vodka and Moet & Chandon. Here's a mixologist's recipe:

The SMIRNOFF Limelight

Serves 1

·         1.5 oz.  SMIRNOFF® Whipped Cream Flavored Vodka

·         4 oz. Ginger Ale 

·         .75 oz. Simple Syrup

·         Squeeze of Lime

Preparation: Combine all ingredients, except for ginger ale, in a shaker with ice. Shake well, strain into glass and top with ginger ale and garnish with a lime wedge.

Now enjoy your New Year's Eve in style!

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9 DIY Homemade Beauty Treatments

I don't know about you, but my skin has taken a beating this winter. Between the windy and cold outside, dry heat inside and excessive partying, my face is paying the price. The good folks over at Z Living have shared 9 easy recipes for DIY beauty treatments. Most of the ingredients you probably already have from throwing cocktail and tea parties...

 1. Get Fresh, Clean Skin With: Mint Skin Toner You can use this natural skin toner on your face every day after cleaning your skin. It helps remove any trace of dirt, soap and your cleanser.

• Take 20-30 fresh mint leaves. Pour about 1.5 liters of hot water and allow them to steep for about 10 minutes. Strain and let the liquid cool.

2. Avoid Dry Skin With: Cucumber & Yogurt Skin Toner This is great for oily skin as it will remove excess oil and leave your skin feeling smooth and soft.

• Grate a cucumber and squeeze out the excess water.
• Add 1/2 cup of natural yogurt and blend it well to get a creamy consistency.
• Apply the cucumber and yogurt mix on your face for about 10 minutes.

3. Rid Scaly Skin With: Peaches & Olive Oil Skin Toner The peaches will nourish your skin, while the olive oil will moisturize it.

• Peel and mash two peaches using some olive oil.
• Add 1tsp of fresh single cream to the mixture.
• Apply it on your face and let it stay for 10 minutes. Wash your face with lukewarm water.

4. Get Rid Of Acne With: White Vinegar & Rose Water Skin Toner The white vinegar is anti-bacterial and will get rid of pimple and acne-causing bacteria. The rose water makes your skin feel smooth and soft.

• Mix equal quantities of white vinegar and rose water.
• Dip a cotton ball in this natural skin toner to clean and tone your face.

5. Get Ageless Beauty With: Green Tea Skin Toner Green tea is filled with antioxidants that get rid of free radicals. After applying this toner, you will notice your skin has a natural glow and stays soft the entire day.

• Soak green tea in hot water for about 10 minutes.
• Strain and let cool.
• Apply this toner on your face first thing in the morning.

6. Get Smooth Skin With: Chamomile Tea Skin TonerThis toner will leave your skin feeling smooth and clean.

• Boil a teabag in 100ml water for approximately  five minutes. Let it cool.
• Use a cotton ball to dab your face with tea.
• Let your face air dry. Don’t rinse afterwards.

7. Stay Fresh All Day With: Apple & Honey Skin Toner This natural skin toner makes your skin radiant and keeps it fresh all day long. Try and use natural honey for its anti-bacterial properties.

• Purée one ripe apple in a blender.
• Add honey to the purée and apply the mixture on your face.
• Let the mixture stay for 15 minutes before washing off with some lukewarm water.

8. Remove Excessive Tan With: Lemon Juice Toner The humble lemon juice has so many uses and one of them is helping get rid of excess oil and grease from the face. This will remove all traces of oil and help clear your complexion.

• Apply lemon juice and allow it to remain for 10 minutes before washing off with plain water.

9. Get Radiant Skin With: Vegetable Oil, Lemon Juice & Honey Skin Toner While vegetable oil contains phytochemicals and nutrients to moisturize and strengthen skin, lemon juice has astringent properties and honey is a natural cleanser.

• Mix 1/4tbsp of any vegetable oil with 1/4tsp lemon juice and 1tsp honey.
• Blend the ingredients well and apply this mixture on your face.
• Wash your face after 10 minutes with lukewarm water.

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Gift Guide Pick: Elizabeth Arden UNTOLD Perfume and Lipstick

The hottest trends to come out of the fall/winter runways were unmistakably red and gold. They also happen to be the colors of the holiday season and the brand that embodies that is undoubtedly Elizabeth Arden.

 That shiny gold case and bright red lip symbolized the classic look of glamour to me since I first opened up a fashion magazine as a child. Now, the ruby lip is as hot as ever. I admit I was a little shy to try the bold shade of Red Door Red for daytime. Elizabeth Arden’s global artist Rebecca Restrepo created a collection of lipstihues to flatter all skin tones and fashion colors. I learned that the key to a strong, pigment intensive shade is to make sure your lips are well moisturized. This particular collection is filled with shea butter and vitamins A, C and E to pamper your lips.

I don’t know what it is about pulling open a new lipstick box and turning the tube that got me excited when I first explored makeup, but that joy never left. I already gave my Mom some early stocking stuffers with a few shades that she loved; my girlfriends might too.

My best BFFs will get to try a new fragrance. A great perfume in a glass sculpture is another no-brainer gift for your favorite beauty fans. Elizabeth Arden’s UNTOLD was launched this year. The fragrance is presented in a frosted faceted bottle, like a jewel. It is framed in silver then topped with a crystal clear stopper. The scent itself has what the industry calls “gourmand” notes of pear, black currant and pink pepper along with floral gardenia. I tested it out; it was kind of sexy, romantic, but not overpowering.

Are you ready for a party to give a bright red kiss?  Do you want to unwrap a seductive new scent? Find your goodies at the Elizabeth Arden makeup counter this holiday.

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by Elizabeth Arden. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Elizabeth Arden.

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Holiday Party Secret Weapon: Jergens

The holiday season is about to rear its sparkly head. You are already lining up your party schedule and wardrobe. Before you even dress up, you need to make sure you look good underneath. Jergens BB Body Perfecting Skin Cream is a new find for me just in time for the winter assault on my skin. 

While BB cream for the face has been the biggest upgrade to my beauty routine, BB Body cream takes it one step further.  Don’t think of it as body makeup.  Jergens BB Body Perfecting Skin Cream works as an intense moisturizer that hydrates the skin.  Unlike makeup, it doesn’t just mask imperfections; the ingredients help even skin tone over a period of five days.

In the winter, my skin really takes a beating. Between periods of hives, dryness and sometimes urticaria, I am quite self-conscious about any kind of skin-bearing party outfit during the holiday season.  Makeup rubs off on delicate fabrics and can clog pores to make it worse.  A BB cream that works to firm and improve the texture of my skin the way the best products can for my face was a great discovery right before the first soirees of the season. 

Now I’m not saying you should go and live a strictly hedonistic lifestyle… Hydrate and rest for your insides or whatever you do for the outside skin won’t stand a chance. 

You can find Jergens BB Body Perfecting Skin Cream pretty much anywhere like your local Target or CVS store.  You can like Jergens on Facebook for news and promotions.

Disclosure: Content was sponsored by Jergens.. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Jergens.

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How To: Creepy Doll Makeup Tutorial

Happy Halloween! I am going with a Gothic, creepy doll as my costume this year.  While I knew I could whip us a frilly, disturbed frock, the makeup would be what made the character.  Ricky’s Glam Squad came to my rescue to help create this awesome look.  They send hair and makeup artists straight to your door for Halloween, Red Carpet events or any other occasion you need to look fabulous. 

Glam Squad stylist Marcy Iaquinto first came to NYC to be in front of the camera, but found her true calling creating beauty behind it.  Here’s her Creepy Doll Makeup Tutorial on how she created my look:

" I started the makeup with the eyes. I used a white pencil on the lid and under the eyes in a round shape including the water line.

 In the crease I used black eye shadow and extended that down around the white. I blended the edges so the eyes appeared hallow. I then blended some pink above the black on the top lids.

For complexion, I used a foundation  two to three shades lighter than actual skin tone for a pale look. I contoured with a darker powder to make the cheek bones appear a bit sunken in and added bright pink blush on the apples of the cheeks for a baby doll look.

For brows I exaggerated the color and made them imperfect as if they were a bit worn off."

"After complexion was done, I added those crazy fake eye lashes including bottom ones. The bottom lashes really helped create that wide open baby doll look.  

For lips, I drew an exaggerated heart shaped red lip and added concealer to the edges of the lips to help create the heart shape which really pulled the look together. "

So there you have it!  If you see me traipsing around the West Village Halloween Parade tomorrow, come say hello.  Please send me photos of YOUR costumes and makeup looks!  If you have a cool DIY, I would love to show it off!  

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