Fall Color Product Review: M•A•C Blue Storm Eyeshadows

macbluestorm.jpgWhat They Say: "On Fall's horizon, a storm of hues: stratus blues, overcast greys...a thunderclap of shades so intense, your eye becomes the heart of the storm. Highly-pigmented powder. Applies evenly, blends well."

Melissa Says: Are you getting the hint that a touch of blue (the new blues, they are WEARABLE!) is very hot for this season? Well, these shadows from M•A•C give you even more pretty options with these pots filled with varied shades of blue, teal, frosty grey, black with blue pearl and blue laced with pretty purple sheen that allow you to choose a shade that follows this trend which looks flattering on you and that you feel comfortable with (I know some of you still resist the blue idea...yes, you there, I see you). They also blend beautifully together and last fairly well, but do crease a bit after several hours.

Retail Price: $14.00 (at maccosmetics.com or go here to find a retail location near you)

DeLush Rating:

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Posted on September 29, 2007 3:34 AM in categories: Eyeshadow, Fall Is Fabulous @ DeLush, M·A·C

Review: Giorgio Armani ArmaniSilk Lipstick (in Fall 2007 Leather Collection shades)

giorgioarmanisilk07.jpgWhat They Say: "Multi-faceted creamy color provocatively clings to the curves of your lips for luxurious, lasting comfort. An exceptional blend of Micro silk powders™ creates a sensual, finely woven veil of rich color that glides onto the lips - dressing them like silk. Available in a palette of 18 signature shades with 3 must-have fashion top coat lip accessories to be layered for a matte, satin, or sparkling effect.

* High color cream lipstick
* Exquisite silk finish
* Luxurious lasting comfort"

Melissa Says: Not only is this formula (which I had never previously tried) incredibly soft and moisturizing, but these two shades (55 & 56) for fall from Armani's 2007 Leather Collection are beautiful and versatile. The deep red-burgundy has a gorgeous sheen that adds depth and is a perfect choice for a polished and sophisticated look, while the soft nude beige is a shimmer-free neutral to partner with fall's smoky eyes or your usual look.

This lipstick feels very comfortable and creamy, yet not thick or heavy. It's not particularly longer-lasting than other popular lipstick formulas, but then again it's not touted as long-wear by nature. Personally I had no issue with the wear and only needed to touch up once in a while. From the sleek casing to the contoured shape and super-soft feel, this lipstick fits right in with the glamour of the season.

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Retail Price: $25.00 (online at giorgioarmanibeauty-usa.com or go here to locate a select retailer near you)

DeLush Rating:

CHANEL Fall Lipcolor: Rouge Double Intensité Ultra Wear Lipcolour & Rouge Allure in 'Rose Blossom'

chanel_rougeallure.jpgAbout the Rouge Allure: "It combines fabulously wearable, lustrous colour and sensational comfort and is subtly etched with the world-renowned CHANEL logo. "

Jen's Experience: I have used some of the Rouge Allure lipsticks in the past with good luck. The colors are very rich and apply very true to color, so you don't have to wonder what the color will look like or layer it on to get the color in the tube. On the other hand, the color doesn't last as long as some of my other lipsticks, so it does require frequent reapplication throughout the day. The shade I tested, Rose Blossom, is a limited edition color that is part of Nordstrom's anniversary collection. This one is a less frosted version of the Hydrabase shade I tested earlier this year, and for that, I'm quite thankful. If you're in the market for a nice bright pink to wear with your Chanel Eyeshadow Quads or other grays in your wardrobe, hurry to your Nordstrom counter before this limited run is sold out.

Retail Price: $30.00 (Available only at Nordstrom counters)


Rating:



chanel_ultrawear.jpg

About the Ultra Wear Lipcolour: "Base Colour Coat: Innovative fluid texture delivers long-lasting performance, comfortable application and perfect adherence to lips - without transferring or feathering. Dries quickly, too. Top Gloss Coat: Clear gloss's soft, non-tacky texture provides high shine and comfort throughout the day."

Toya's Take: I have to admit that I am not a fan of long-lasting lip products. I have found that they make my lips feel really dry and, while they do last longer than regular glosses and lipsticks, as they claim, the extended wear isn't worth the nasty texture, in my opinion. I didn't find this lippie to be any different. The color was a nice, neutral rose, but other than that, this is no big whoop. The product is long-lasting and will stay on your lips much better than your ordinary gloss, but be prepared for dryness throughout the day.

Retail Price: $32.00 (Chanel.com or your local department store counter)

Rating:

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Posted on September 26, 2007 3:53 AM in categories: Chanel, Fall Is Fabulous @ DeLush, Lipstick

Fall Product Review: M•A•C Smoke Signals Eyeshadow x4 Palettes & Liners

What They Say: "Her smoke signals: intense blue, grey and aubergine shadows wafted over the eyes, bound by rings of creamy Eye Kohl..."

macsmokequads.jpgGentle Fume Eyes: Eye Shadow x4 - "A monochromatic quad of four modern cool-toned Eye Shadows in the sultry spirit of Smoke Signals. Features three limited edition shades: Waft, Gentle Fume and Rondelle, matched-up with Carbon. Texturally: an intense mix of matte and velvet."

Smoking Eyes: Eye Shadow x4 - "A smoking quad of four warmed-over neutrals that at its deepest starts with a rich, dark black. Features three limited edition shades: Next to Nothing, Smoking, and Showstopper, complemented by Satin Taupe."





macsmokekohl.jpgKohl Power Eye Pencil (in Orpheus, a gold-flecked black and Raven, an intense black with red pearl that looks sort of like deep plum on the eye) - "A kohl pencil that has all the intensity and colour power of ultra-soft carbon. Specially formulated to provide deep, fully opaque coverage, provides an intense, smoked finish with duo-chrome pearl. Versatile in application: blend or smudge."

Melissa Says:
about the Eye Shadow x4 - These quad shades are really well put together in terms of compatibility with each other. My personal favorite is the Smoking Eyes set, but both include very pretty and of-the-moment colors that don't go over the top, but are in fact quite wearable. This was my first introduction to wearing M•A•C quad shadows, and I have been impressed. The pigments are always true and the formula is quite smooth, with pretty respectable staying power.

about the Kohl Power Eye Pencils - I also had not previously worn M•A•C's Kohl Power Eye Pencils, and honestly I always associate kohl liners with lots of smudging. While I found that these created a gorgeous line on my upper lids and remained unsmudged much longer than with other kohl liners I've tried in the past (several hours), on my usually more moisturized lower lids they did not fare so well. Obviously I typically wouldn't line both upper and lower with a bold pencil like this anyway, but I wanted to try it out for the sake of getting a feel for all aspects of wear. On upper lids, these two shades create a little extra drama and sexiness, but use caution when considering using them underneath.

Retail Prices:
Eye Shadow x4 $36.00
Kohl Power Eye Pencil $13.50
(both available at maccosmetics.com or go here to find a retail location near you)

DeLush Ratings:
Eye Shadow x4
Kohl Power Eye Liners

Fall Product Review: Tarte Rejuvelash Set

tarterejuvelash.jpgWhat They Say: Skinvigorating™ Benefits NEW: Rejuvelash Declumping Lash Exhilarator
  • Treat: ProVitamin B5 and a cocktail of herbal hair restoratives (like aloe) improve the texture of eyelash hair to increase suppleness and prevent breakage so your lashes can reach their full potential.
  • Protect: Proprietary antioxidant blend with Vitamin C acts as a film former to protect against cosmetic, environmental and free radical damage.
  • Revive: give late day lashes a lift and get rid of clumps; unique emulsifying agents and this patented flexible bristle brush gently eliminate clumps.

Lights, camera, lashes! 4-in-1 Mascara

  • Lengthening: Rice bran, carnauba & candelilla wax extend the length of lashes.
  • Curling: Synthetic film formers hold in curl.
  • Volumizing: ProVitamin B5 treats and thickens.
  • Conditioning: Organic compounds derived from natural olive esters coat and treat lashes to protect against breakage.

Picture Perfect Eyelash Curler

  • Breakthrough ergonomic design - no finger holes makes it easy to use.
  • Curved angle suits all eye shapes without pinching or crimping.

Alissa's Opinion: I'm a total sucker for lash products and all things purple, so I was really excited to rip this set open and give it a try. The cute faux snakeskin and leather cases look like no other product on the market.

I started with the eyelash curler. It was easy to grip and gave me a nice round curl with no bends or kinks. Next up was the Exhilarator, which deposited a lot of gunk on my perfectly flipped lashes. I combed through the goop when it dried so I could get an even coat of mascara, but I ended up with dry white flakes on my face. After cleaning up that mess I applied the 4-in-1 Mascara and found that the end result was beautiful. The brush is full and holds a lot of product, so I wiped it of before applying. It gave me long, thick eyelashes that stayed curled all day.

I also tried the Exhilarator as a mid-day mascara reviver but found that it just gave me spider eyes again. I will continue to use the mascara, but that other little tube is gone. It might be useful if you are looking for a nighttime lash conditioner.

Retail Price: $40.00 (at tartecosmetics.com - for pricing for individual products see the site as well)

DeLush Ratings:
Exhilarator:
Mascara:
Curler:

Chanel Fall Collection 2007 Eyeshadow Quadra in Sequoia and Hydrabase Lipstick in Magnolia Rose (Limited Edition)

chanel_hydrabase.jpg
About the lipstick: "Satin cream lipstick. Long-lasting colour wears for hours.

Moisturizing formula imparts broad range of fashion-forward colours with long-lasting satiny finish and medium coverage.

Vitamin E and chamomile protect and soothe lips. Soft, creamy formula won't fade, smudge or feather.
Apply to bare lips, after outlining with Aqua Crayon or Precision Lip Definer. To make lipstick last even longer, powder lips before application. "

Jen's Experience: This lipstick in Magnolia Rose is the coordinating lipstick for both the Garden Party eyeshadow quad and the other eyeshaow quad in their fall collection, Sequoia, reviewed below. I love the fabulous lipstick shades in Chanel's collection this fall, but I can't help but think this shade would be better if it weren't frosted. I have been seeing frosted lipsticks all over the place this season, so I guess that's the trend, but I can't help but feel like I'm back in middle school when I'm wearing one. That said, the rose shade looks good with my skin tone and coordinates perfectly with the other pieces in this collection or with the bolder eye looks for the season. The wear of this lipstick is not quite as good as I would like; it lasts 1-2 hours before it needs a touch up.

Retail Price: $25.00 (Chanel.com or your local department store counter)

 

sequoia.jpgAbout the Eyeshadow Quad:
"Four eye shadows in one compact. Coordinated quartet of shades in wet/dry formula.

Shade combinations ranging from matte to frost to satin for multiple looks, contrasting or complementary. Apply dry for subtle shadowing. Slightly moistened applicator gives a more intense shade.

Organic polymer derivatives ensure smudge-proof long wear, particularly in high temperature or humidity. Dermatologist tested. Ophthalmologist tested. Safe for contact lens wearers.
For a soft, natural look, use a single shade with graduated intensity. For a more sophisticated look, apply lighter shade from lashes to brow, medium shade on the lid, medium-dark shade in the crease and deepest shade to outer corner of lid."

Jen's Experience: I have much less of a problem with frosted eyeshadows than I do with frosted lipsticks. This palette contains four pink to neutral shades, two matte, two frosted, which in combinaton make up one of the most wearable palettes I've tried this whole season. Much like the Garden Party shadows, these don't necessarily seem like something I would have normally chosen for fall. But with colors this wearable? Pick it up now and stash it for Spring!

Retail Price: $55.00 (Chanel.com or your local department store counter)

Ratings:
Hydrabase Lipstick

Eyeshadow Quad in Sequoia

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Posted on September 20, 2007 3:28 AM in categories: Chanel, Eyeshadow, Fall Is Fabulous @ DeLush

Review: Giorgio Armani Eye Mania Palette from Fall 2007 Leather Collection

giorgioeyemania.jpgWhat They Say: "Drawing inspiration from Armani's exquisite collection of leather accessories, the eye mania palette features four versatile shades encased in a luxurious black snakeskin print compact. This elegant eye shadow palette is an accessory all on its own; a unique expression of the Armani style. The collection of pink and violet hues in matte, satin, and shimmering finishes creates a sophisticated look for Fall 2007. Limited Edition.

Eye Shadow Shades:
satin pink beige
soft shimmering pink
matte deep purple
matte ashwood

Application Techniques:
Apply matte ashwood all over your eyelid, blending matte deep purple into your crease and soft shimmering pink above the crease. Finish by adding satin pink beige into the inner corners of your eye."

Melissa Says: It was as if this palette was created just to make me happy. The colors just happen to contain the shades that look best with my eye color, and they apply more smoothly than any shadow I've used. Not only does this shadow blend beautifully, but there is not a crease to be found after wearing it for hours. True, this is more than most of us are typically prepared to spend for shadow on a regular basis, but the luxury of the formula combined with the beautiful shades and pretty compact make this a splurge that's worth it if you're looking to spoil yourself. If this selection of colors doesn't work as well for your coloring, I would still highly recommend one of the other versions of Eye Mania palletes.

(Click pic to enlarge.)
armanileather.jpg

Retail Price: $65.00 (at giorgioarmanibeauty.com or go here to find a select retail location near you)

DeLush Rating:

Fall Product Review: M.A.C. RushMetal Collection (Limited Edition)

mac_rushmetal.jpg
The alchemy of gold transformed and the manipulated by M.A.C. artistry into the next wave. Metallic glam as eight limited edition pigments radiate the power, glory and versatility of this key element. Playing their part in this new gold rush, four lipstocls and finished to reflect the trace-colour of each gold-tinged pigment...applied with the 249 large shader and 239 eye shader brushes that accompany this collection, this is metal as it should be worn. Feel the rush."

Jen Says: The perfect complement to this season's metallic accents, this line from M.A.C. is an excellent way to transition to your fall look. I tried the lipsticks and the pigments from this collection, and am excited to present my results. This gorgeous collection is nearly finished its run at M.A.C. counters, so if you're in the market for these products and shades, run to your nearest department store this weekend!

 

 

mac_pigment.jpg
Pigment

What They Say: "Pigment is a highly concentrated loose colour powder that contains ingredients to help it adhere to the skin. Pigment comes in an excellent range of colours. Use to create a subtle wash of colour or an intense effect. Pigment does not streak or cake, is easy to blend and long-lasting."

Jen's Experience: For the most part, I haven't had good luck with loose eyeshadow, especially when it shimmers. No matter how careful I am with the brush, even applied with a little water, if it doesn't end up making my entire face sparkly during application, it ends up that way by the end of the evening. Well, this eyeshadow from M.A.C. completely exceeded all my expectations. Not only are the colors vivid but wearable, they apply so evenly and last an incredibly long time. I most commonly reach for Quick Frost, a creamy white with a soft green pearl, and Revved-up, an icy rose. But the more metallic shades -- Rushmetal, Gold Mode, Mauvement, Off the Radar, Copperized, and Cocomotion -- are also fun and not out of place even for work.

If you purchase these, be sure to invest in at least one of the M.A.C. shader brushes. I used #239 for detail work and #249 for the overall area. These brushes do an excellent job of holding the pigment so that it's delivered to the eye, rather than all over your face (and the bathroom counter). These pigments and the brushes are a combination that is truly the star of this collection.

Retail Price: $19.50 (MACCosmetics.com or your local department store)

 

 

mac_lipstick.jpg
Lipstick

What They Say: "Colour plus texture for the lips. Stands out on the runway. Simmers on the street! What made M·A·C famous. "

Jen's Experience: The lipstick colors in this collection are all fantastic, from rose-tinged coffee shades to a light gold shade. All of the colors have a bit of gold in them, but not so much that it looks to overdone for everyday use. Since the eyeshadows can be pretty intense when they're layered, it's nice to have such pretty shades that aren't too overwhelming. My favorite of the bunch is Fast Lane, the mauve with silver pearl lustre, which is perfect with my favorite Pigment shades, but also works well with charcoals. The other colors (Thrills, Frenzy, and Soft Lust) are more brown and gold and are a little out of my comfort zone, but it turns out they look great with a dewy foundation and a oood bronzer. Believe it or not, this is my first experience with M.A.C. lipstick, and while I like the shades, I am not as excited about the wear. I got one to two hours tops out of each. Still, I like them well enough to recommend picking up one of these coordinating shades when you're looking for the RushMetal Eyeshadow Pigments.

Retail Price: $14.00

 

Ratings:

Pigment
Lipstick

Fall Product Review: M•A•C Painterly Paint Pots

macpainterlypots.jpgWhat They Say: "A highly pigmented eye colour that goes on creamy but dries to an intense, vibrant finish. The next generation of a popular M·A·C formula, Paint Pots maintains all the intense traits of its inspiration. Long-wearing, colourfast. Creates seamless coverage without weight or caking. Blends smoothly over the lids. Cream-based, can be mixed with M·A·C shadows and liners. Available in matte and pearl formulas."


Melissa Says: I swear, I want to get one of these for every woman I know. First of all, the pots have a very substantial amount of the product in them, enough to last months, and what's inside can only be described as FANTASTIC. Very creamy and soft, these colors go on beautifully and stay on beautifully. This stuff glides on silky-smooth and you can layer it to your preference of intensity. With some slightly bold shades as well as several very usable neutral ones, there's a good chance you could find at least one that you could get an awful lot of use out of. Right now I love using the beige- and rose-hued shades as bases for the entire lid, with the frost finish of Bare Study typically for highlighting, and then choosing my main lid shade. I've also used a liner brush on a few of these to create gorgeous, lasting eyeliner in interesting shades that lasts impressively well throughout the day without fading.

Love. This. Stuff.

Retail Price: $16.00 (at maccosmetics.com or go here to find a retail location near you)

DeLush Rating:

Review: CHANEL Silky Eye Shadow Duo in Fall 2007 shade Lotus-Cactus

chanellotuscact.jpgWhat They Say: "Autumn gardens inspire the season's sumptuous, sophisticated look - told in deeply sensuous earth tones that lend lips and eyes rich new emphasis. Silky powder shadow pairs in runway shades provide crease-free, long-lasting wear. New Lotus-Cactus couples a shade of soft pink with a precious emerald green."

What Lisa Says: This pale pink and khaki green duo is choc with shimmer and should be beautiful with the falling offerings coming off the runway this year. My Lotus however is more than half gone compared to the Cactus. Lotus is great for highlighting the brow and inner eye areas. It has just the right amount of color and shine. If you like just a simple wash of color try the Cactus. But if it's depth of color you're looking for, you'll find you'll use much more Lotus than Cactus in this duo. I just could not get the Cactus dark enough for my liking. Even using a mixing medium and applying it wet did not add depth of color but did add sheen. A nice effect but not much darker than applying dry. As is so common with duo's and quad's, I'm liking one better than the other. Still, it's a nice duo, it stayed on without creasing and I'll wear both during the day but would not recommend for evening. Chanel always packages their products nicely with two applicators and a mirrored compact.

Retail Price: $38.50 (at chanel.com or in select department stores)

DeLush Rating:

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Posted on September 12, 2007 10:48 PM in categories: Chanel, Eyeshadow, Fall Is Fabulous @ DeLush

Fall Color Review: Chanel Levres Scintillantes Glossimer (in Fall 2007 shade "Iris 96")

What They Say: Intense frost and shine for lips. Cool array of hottest colours in a convenient, easy-to-use case. Gel texture imparts a shimmery, ultra-glossy look. New shades add extra sparkle and shine.

Jamie's Thoughts: First off, allow me to admit that I am one of THOSE women - I carry at least 4-5 lip products on my person at all times. Lip gloss, in particular, holds a special place in my heart because I'm not brave enough to risk a full-out lipstick. Oftentimes, they simply look too drastic against my pale skin. So I tote about at least one balm, and a stable of lip glosses.

That being said, this new shade of Chanel's wildly popular Glossimer line has more than earned a place in my handbag. It has enough staying power without turning tacky, the shimmer element isn't gritty in feel, and it can be layered on lipstick or worn alone. Because of its very neutral peachy-pink tone, this is a product I would recommend to anyone, regardless of their complexion. Seriously.

This product makes my lips look natural and alive in less than 5 seconds. Fabulous!

Retail Price: $25.00 (in select department stores and online at chanel.com)

Delush Rating:

Chanel Fall Collection 2007 Eyeshadow Quadra in Garden Party (Limited Edition)

chanel_fall2007.jpgWhat They Say: "Shade combinations ranging from matte to frost to satin for multiple looks, contrasting or complementary. Apply dry for subtle shadowing. Slightly moistened applicator gives a more intense shade. Organic polymer derivatives ensure smudge-proof long wear, particularly in high temperature or humidity. Dermatologist tested."


Jen's Experience: I have gotten so much wear out of last Fall's Chanel limited edition eyeshadow in Pink Lame, I was very eager to try out this season's palette, which seems to have some similar tones. I am not normally one to wear a lot of green eyeshadows, which are prevalent in this particular Quadra, but combined with the other pink and coral shades, I found it to be a completely wearable collection for my fair skin and hair. The pale green shade is a fun alternate to the usual pearl or cream shades that I wear on my browbone.

As for wear, I wasn't particularly impressed with the staying power of the eyeshadow when worn without an eyesahdow base, although I've always had trouble getting eyeshadow to stay put throughout the day. One thing I did note is that this eyeshadow doesn't smudge at all, even when I rub my eyes, which to me is a huge plus. I think this is due in part to the feather-soft texture that really allows it to melt into my skin.

Overall, this collection is a pretty way to brighten up all those dark clothes that come out for fall, and for those who are pale like I am, I think you'll find that the colors in the palette will liven up your look for the season.

Retail Price: $55.00 (Chanel.com or your local department store)

Rating:

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Posted on September 8, 2007 5:17 PM in categories: Chanel, Eyeshadow, Fall Is Fabulous @ DeLush

Fall Color on DeLush: M•A•C Smoke Signals 2007 Collection Lipstick & Lipglass shades

macsmokesignalsimage.jpgSmoke Signals: "Erotic, yes. Feminie, surely. Sexy, no doubt... This is the beauty, craft and subtle unfiltered sizzle of the modern bombshell. ...The match that ignites this new look: three NEW sensually shine-filled shades of lipglass. There is no smoke without fire. She's cool, and dangerous."


Melissa tried out the lip shades in this collection.

"In a way that made me very happy, the lip shades included in the Smoke Signals collection seem to be ready to make any woman feel prettier, with a touch of sultry. One wonderful thing is the subtleness of most of the shades, with the boldest colors being a match of deep yet wearable pouty burgundies. Like all of M•A•C's lip products, you can easily layer Lipglass on top of the lipstick shades for even more drama, or use either alone, depending on your coverage and texture preference. Below, you can see what each shade looks like on real lips! Enjoy Smoke Signals 2007."

Click to enlarge.

macsmokesignalslipsstick2.jpg

Fall Product Review: Jemma Kidd Eye Wardrobe

jemmakidd_eyewardrobe.jpg
What They Say: " Stunningly wearable shades in one color family for everything you need to highlight and shade, day to night. Intense, blendable color that lasts.

How to use:
Step 1: Always start with a base of highlight.
Step 2: Load highlight brush and apply over the whole eye area, blending up and out to the brow bone and outer corner.
Step 3: Load color brush with a mid color, flicking away excess.
Step 4: Apply color at the lash line and then blend up and out over the lid. Blend up to the socket, but never apply color at the socket because you will then have to blend it too far beyond that point.
Step 5: If you need more color, apply again at the base and blend upwards. Layer color until satisfied with the intensity.
Step 6: If you want to, you can sweep an extra layer of highlight under the brow to accentuate the look. "

Jen's Experience: This is my first review for the fall season, and hopefully it's an indicator of things to come! The eye wardobe I tested contained various shades of gray, from the nearly white to a smoky black, with a medium gray and a shimmery one as well. I love the off-white shade as an allover base and a highlighter for the brow bone. My surprise favorite of the bunch, though, was the dark, shimmery smoke color. It works well on my lids for evening use, but it also makes a fantastic eyeliner with a drop of water. The wear is impressive, lasting for hours and hours without even a eyeshadow base This is definitely going to be my prime shadow wardrobe for all my black ensembles for fall.

Retail Price: $45.00 (NeimanMarcus.com)

Rating:

Fall Product Review: Tarte fRxtion Sugar Exfoliator and Lip Balm Duo

tartefrxtion.jpgWhat They Say: "Whatever your oral affliction
(be it chapped lips or sugar addiction)
Tarte has got the Rx for your blues
And it's garnering all rave reviews
Sugar grains scrub your pout smooth
While Vitamin E balm helps soothe
Believe it or not, it's non-fiction
Cause it's not only fact...it's FRxtion

Directions:
Use sugar exfoliator side on dry flaky, chapped lips to smooth out and follow with the vitamin e enhanced balm side to soothe lips."

Melissa's DeLush Downlow: Okay, first of all - I don't think you can fully appreciate the fun of the popup mirror built in to this case unless you get to use it in person. Obviously, this would be a godsend for all actual lipstick cases, but I digress.

The sugar side is actually sweet, isn't TOO rough for lips, and still gets the job done. The balm side is very smooth and conditioning, with lasting moisturizing effects for several hours. Another plus is the fact that so far the stick has proven pretty sturdy, which is important considering the fact that you'll be applying more pressure than with other lips balms because you're trying to exfoliate.

Even though this may not be my everyday balm, when I notice that my lips are dry and rough, this will definitely be within hand's reach.

Retail Price: $11.00 (at tartecosmetics.com)

DeLush Rating:

Fall Product Review: Three Custom Color Eyepencils

What They Say: "Our Black Eye Liner Pencil can be used to provide precise definition to your lash line. Also, try blending it down to create a sultry, smoky effect!

The unique texture of these Eye Liners allows for smooth application, easy blending and long wear."

Jen's Experience: Initially, I was excited about these eye pencils from 3 Custom Color Specialists. The colors I tried, Navy and Smoke, are really pretty when applied, and both worked really well with my skin tone. Unfortuately, they just didn't work well as an eyeliner.

I found it easy to create a smoky, smudged eye using these eyeliners, but next to impossible to create a crisp, defined eye. I wouldn't mind that so much if it didn't continue to smudge all over the place, all throughout the day. The gray spreads all over my eye area, making it look like I've been in a fight. The blue didn't smudge as badly, but it did migrate enough to make it look like I was wearing blue eyeshadow by lunchtime.

I really do love the colors, so it's unfortunate that I just can't wear them.

Retail Price: $14.00 (Beauty.com)

Rating:

Fall Product Review: Tarte “Some Like It Hot” Mini-Gloss Set

What They Say: "Sizzling speakeasies with zip…red-hot risque, razzle-dazzle costumes…blazing jazz numbers sultry enough to work you into a fiery fever…Ah, the good ol’ days (well, what we think of, anyway)
Ever feel like you were born a few decades too late? Not to fret: this is just the set for all you girls who are more spice than sugar. Your inner sex kitten will purrr with these 10 cinnamon-flavored, moisture-rich shades of playful pinks & sheer flirty neutrals. The cayenne pep will leave you wanting more….and we deliver. Interchangeable connector pieces let you mix and match glosses for endless zesty combinations—leaving you too hot for words."

Jamie’s Thoughts: I love this set of adorable teeny glosses for fall. The packaging is super cute – but the real genius is in the details. The 10 small vials of gloss have caps, each of which lock into a connector piece. Each connector piece holds 2 mini vials (great for the indecisive), and when you’re using only 1, the other one makes a perfectly sized wand! Also, the applicator tip is sponge-based, not a brush, making application clean and neat. BRILLIANT!

The consistency of the glosses is somewhere between standard Vaseline and MAC’s infamous Lipglass. My love affair with Lipglass makes me the perfect candidate for this glossy hybrid product. It’s not overly tacky, yet has suprising staying power. (Full disclosure: I found it somewhat difficult to get it off. I’m a lip licker, so this is an asset in my opinion.) Also, the cinnamon scent is present, but not overwhelming.

Colors to Try:
Zesty – the perfect pink, especially for a redhead.
Zip – has a golden sheen, would be fantastic over red lipstick
Spicy – my personal favorite, great for all skin tones

Only 1 color seemed out of touch with the aesthetic of the rest – Fever. It was almost neon in tone – like radioactive Pepto Bismol. I can’t see it looking good on anyone, but go out and buy the set. Maybe you’ll prove me wrong!

Retail Price: $28.00 (TarteCosmetics.com or Sephora)

DeLush Rating:

Fall Product Review: Tom Ford Amber Nude II Collection Bronzer and Brush at Estée Lauder

elbronzer.jpgWhat They Say: (about The Bronzer) "Now, your skin and your senses are under the influence of Tom Ford. The message is nude. A makeup collection that reflects Tom Ford's provocative philosophy. Real gold in the makeup gives it a gilded, glamorous edge. Tom Ford on the collection: 'This collection is very much my philosophy of beauty. I've concentrated only on nude shades for the lips and nails. This is what I always really like...a neutral mouth, beautiful skin and a dramatic, strong eye. One look that works for many skintones.'" (about The Brush) *We don't have an official description at press time.

elbronzer2.jpgMelissa's DeLush Downlow: From the excitedly-anticipated Amber Nude II collection, this bronzer is more Fall-appropriate than the Azurée bronzer from this summer. This one is more tan and less tawny, and fairly subtle. The color doesn't turn orange at all as the day wears on and it stays put. Also, the compact is very generously-sized - about 50% wider in diameter than normal compacts.

The brush is incredibly soft and easy-to-handle. It helps to apply the bronzer evenly in just a few swipes. It's gentle on your face and just using it adds some glamour to the process of getting ready.

Retail Prices:
(The Bronzer) $60.00
(The Brush) $35.00
(both available at esteelauder.com)

DeLush Rating:
(The Bronzer)
(The Brush)

The Face of Fall: Lancôme

Lancôme's Fall color collection is called Luna Chic, which has three different variations: Twilight, Terra Light, and Red Carpet. Here's the rundown on the standout products for each look!

Twilight (Fall Chic)



Favorites:

lancomeblushsubtil.jpgBlush Subtil Mosaique in Stargazer

"This luxuriously silky powder blush uses a combination of distinctive colors for a perfectly natural finish. Multiple shades in one pan allow for definition, highlighting and contouring versatility. Oil free -- perfect for all skin types."


lancomeartliner.jpgArtliner in Starshower

"This easy-to-handle, liquid pen features a uniquely shaped foam tip that lets you precision-line, shape and define your eyes.

Won't scratch, tug or skip. Also features a unique combination of two film-forming polymers that make every look last even longer. Rich, deep, luminous colour pigments offer the most intense- colour. The Result: A precise, professional look."

Terralight (Dramatic/Sultry)

lancometerralight2.jpg

Favorites:

lancomecolourfocus.jpgColour Focus Quad in Terralight (Designer)

"Go for the glamour with this palette of four colour-coordinated shadows to colour, contour, highlight and line your eyes. Patented Jetfine technology produces fine shadow for outstanding blendability and exceptional long wear. Use wet or dry to achieve various intensities. Custom applicators help create the perfect look."

lancomerougeabsolu.jpgLe Rouge Absolu in Nova

"Smoother. Fuller. Absolutely replenished lips. This advanced lip color provides 6-hour care with continuous moisture and protective Vitamin E. Features plumping polymer and non-feathering c