Holiday 2015 Aurora collection from CND

Inspired by the Arctic tundra, the colors in CND's 2015 holiday Aurora collection are so different then any other and I'm soo obsessed with it.  Instead of your traditional reds and gold shimmers, the Aurora collection boasts four sexy new shades like Nordic Light, Winter Glow, Glacial Mist and Tundra.

 

 Retail: $10.50

 Glacial Mist

Glacial Mist is a beautiful sparkling, glittery teal.  The glitter is very evident and eye catching, and is easily removed.  You definitely don't have to worry about soaking this one off.  I like this because even though the glitter is evident in the polish, you still see a nice color pay off, which gives it a really cool dimension. 

Winter Glow

I can't get enough of this color.  I love pinks and neutrals, and this is the perfect combo.  It's very soft and natural looking.  

  Nordic Lights

I'd say this is the shade I'll probably wear the least often, but again, I love that the color pay off is good despite the prominent amount of glitter.  This is probably the closest to the more traditional holiday colors and will be great for holiday parties.  It's a bold purple/ reddish mix, which also makes it ideal for fall.      

 

Tundra

Tundra is a gorgeous metallic, silky looking pink.  This shade is my absolute favorite and I see myself wearing it all year round. It's chic and classy and great for any look, whether it's breezy and casual or a fancy holiday party.  I also like it because it's one of those shades that make your nails appear longer then they are!

Featured Benefits: 

CND® VINYLUX® Weekly Polish is a breakthrough system that endures a week of fashion perfection; two-step application for perfect color that lasts; Color Coat with built in base coat; increased durability with natural light; dries in minutes and provides 7-day, chip resistant wear; “5-Free” – no formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, formaldehyde resin or camphor

 Availability: 

CND Salon Locator

Loxabeauty, 

 ULTA

What do you think of the colors?  Are you planning to rock any this season? 

Holiday Gift Guide for the Fitness Junkie

I'm always on the prowl for new workouts and am totally guilty of obsessing over the latest fitness gear.  So this season, after attending the recent She's Beautiful She's Fit event and experiencing some awesome new studios, I thought it'd be fun to put together some of my favorites to help you shop for the fitness junkie on your list.   Let's take a look!

 

Tritan Flavor Infused

Retail: $9.99

It might sound strange but lately I've had a hard time finding a reliable water bottle to take along on my workouts.  But, this stylish little number from Rove new Diamond Collections is a definite game changer and is great for several reasons.  1. Inside is a flavor infuser which allows you to add a lil something to your water.  A lot of people don't like the taste of plain water and this makes it easy to add in some fresh lemon slices, cucumber, whatever moves you!  The slices stay put in the infuser and only the juices are released into the water.  2.  It snaps shut to prevent leaks, thus reliving you of pulling a potentially half soaked tank out of your gym bag, right before spin class.  But what I like best is that the mouthpiece is it is hard plastic- NOT rubber.  Meaning, I don't have to worry about water getting trapped inside the nozzle and creating nasty mold.  I've had to toss two bottles because of that in the last 3 months alone *tear*. 

 

 

Acumobility Ball

Retail: $24.95

The Acumobility Ball is described as the go to ball for trigger point release and stability exercises and is firm enough for most deep pressure release.  This aims to result in an enhanced length, greater power, improved performance, and less injuries.  It's a great tool for any gym rat looking to amp up their workout, or .  I like them because they're small and easy to store around the house, and light enough to toss in your gym bag and take with you.  There is a sale happening now if you decide to buy two!  The number used are dependent on the type of movement one wants to do.

My Custom Yoga Mat

Retail: $45.00

 

My Custom Yoga Mat is perfect for the yogi lover in your life.  It's a fun way to get creative and a add a personal touch!  You select the mat color, thread color, font style and then personalize it with a name, monogram, initial, inspirational word, nickname, special date-- the sky's the limit!  I own a purple one with my name scrawled in hot pink (duh) and at least one person in every class always takes notice.  The mats are great quality too- very soft and decent thickness.  The site also sells customized pet mats, place mats, bags, etc.- definitely worth browsing for the holidays.

 

Founded by Celebrity Trainer and Bestselling Author, Alycea Ungaro, Real Pilates is the largest studio in NYC dedicated exclusively to the Pilates method and recently debuted its new SoHo location.  The studios feature top of the line equipment including: Reformers, Cadillacs, Wunda Chairs and Towers to name a few.  Classes are offered on a rotating circuit basis so you can get a full body workout over the course of each week, and I was fortunate enough to try one out!  

I'm addicted to mat Pilates and was totally psyched because this would be my first time using the apparatuses.  I attended a private Spring TONE class led by Jordan, where we performed sets of threes, and incorporated the springs/ pulley into various combinations for added resistance.  I was shocked to see how much cardio was involved.  Jordan was super nice, and made sure we kept powering through!  By the end, I was breathing heavy and sweating bullets.  A single group class runs you about $32.00 and is a fab gift idea for the Pilates lover looking to amp up his/her game and seeking a new challenge!  If you're getting tempted reading this, you should know the first class is free when used before December 31, 2015.  Happy sweating! :)

 

Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deals

Happy Thanksgiving all!  I hope everyone is having a great day and enjoying all the food :) Make sure you take advantage of these amazing Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals on everything from makeup to workout gear! Some have already started and you don't want to miss out!

 Macadamia Professional 

 Starting on Black Friday until Cyber Monday, Macadamia Professional will be 40% off site wide with the promo code HOLIDAY40. Be sure to stock up on your essential haircare favorites or check out their holiday sets for quick and easy gifts! Check out everything 

Eve Pearl Beauty Brands up to 60% Off

Promo code: BPTY2U  happening NOW!

Cabana Anna Swimwear 

Get a free pair of Cabana Anna heart shaped sunnies FREE with every order!

AVON 

-Today and Black Friday, receive free shipping plus 20% off purchases of $40 or more, and a train case of travel-sized items with purchases of $65 or more using the code BLACKFRIDAY.

- Saturday, November 28th and Sunday, November 29th, receive free shipping plus 20% off your purchase of $40 or more, and a Merry Makeup Gift Set with purchases of $60 or more using the code GIFTSET.

- Cyber Monday and Tuesday, receive free shipping plus 20% off your purchase of $40 or more, and a tote filled with top-rated products with purchases of $65 or more with code CYBER2015.

MPG

MPG's fashion-forward men's and women's clothes and accessories range from the perfect stocking stuffer, the Flash Compression Sock to our on-trend, functional Puffy Tote as well as techno fabric tops, bottoms and super warm jackets and parkas. MPG shoppers will enjoy an entire weekend of Black Friday deals (November 27-29). Cyber Monday will feature a flash sale on selected items. From December 4-13, a different men's and women's item from the list below will be highlighted at a discounted price for a period of 24 hours only. 

BeautyBox5 November Reveal

Hello, dolls, and happy almost Thanksgiving!!  The days leading up to a holiday are always hectic and that's exactly why I wanted to take a time out and indulge in my latest BeautyBox5 goodies!  For the newcomers out there, BeautyBox5 is a monthly subscription that selects five industry favorites and delivers them straight to your door.  There are various subscription options available but my lucky self receives a complimentary box each month in exchange for my thoughts :) 

Let's take a look!

This month's theme reminds beauty addicts that even "Your basics never have to be boring!"

 La Fresh 

Retail: $40.00

Greet your morning with a little extra pep in your step when you smooth on this hardworking moisturizer that'll perk up your complexion!

Facial Mask 

Retail: $14.95

Give your make some time off and save face with this luxe sheet mask.  You'll be glowing in no time. 

Eye Gel Pads (Set of 2) 

Retail: $20.00

Everyday under eye circles; get outta here!  Pop these on to soothe puffiness, fine lines, and tired skin in just 30 minutes. 

MOODmatcher Luxe Twist Stick

Retail: $8.00

Custom color please!  This shade changing cutie reacts with your lips to create a one-of- a- kind hue that lasts all day!

The All Natural Face Vegan Matte Cream Lip & Cheek Color in Dusty Rose

Retail: $5.75 

Do double- duty and give your cheeks and lips a flirty flush with this buidlable, all natural pigment that fits in your smallest clutch!

Overall, I enjoyed this month's box.  There were three full size products, and the other samples are perfect for upcoming holiday travel plans and parties.  The lip color is brand new to me and I'm excited to try it out.  And I'm definitely looking forward to using my Kaunis face mask for some good ol' fashioned r&r to destress after the holidays!

Do you receive a monthly beauty box?  Are you interested in BB5?

New Release: narciso rodriguez for her l'absolu

 

It was impossible not to fall in love with narciso rodiguez's latest fragrance; for her l'absolu .  Released earlier this month, it is a sexy relaunch of the 2003's For Her, and I'm obsessed with everything about it.

Inspired by Chinese snuff bottles, the bottle is painted from the inside with one of the brand's first signature colors; deep aubergine, with soft pink lettering across the front.  It has an eye catching uniqueness that sets it apart from others on my vanity and I can't stop admiring it. 

Designed to capture a more powerful intensity without being overpowering, the scent celebrates a woman's strength and her vulnerability with logic and beauty in an addictive composition that's both timeless and timely.

Composed of notes like absolute of Jasmin, a voluptuous floral transforms the signature heart of music in an intoxicating olfactive composition.  Soft amber notes and smooth woodsy notes of sandalwood and patchouli add a rich depth.

  

It's an addictive, mature scent that exudes sophistication.  While I have worn it to the office, it's ideal for date nights or luxurious evenings out.  It lingers on the skin and remains just evident enough to make you crave more.  Nothing completes a look better then a little mystery and allure.

I think the die down is my favorite part because it falls into a sweet vanilla.  And I loved that even after a shower, I could still detect light traces of it.  Ultimately, such a gorgeous scent and if I didn't already own it, I'd be adding it to my Christmas list.    

Retail:

$123.00 3.3 oz. Eau de Parfum Spray

$96.00 1.6 oz. Eau de Parfum Spray

Available: 

Fine retail stores nationwide 

Holiday Gift Guide for the Beauty Addict

Tis' the season!  The holidays are will be here before you know it, and this year I'm doing my best to get a jump on my shopping.. (kind of).  But none the less, I've put together a list of industry favorites sure to satisfy the beauty addicts on your list this year!

Airplus Ball- of- Foot gel forefoot cushions

Retail: $5.49

Ball-of-Foot Cushions are great stocking stuffers that any heel lovin gal will appreciate.  They're made with Invisigel to provide superior shock absorption, long-lasting comfort, and relief of foot pain. The nice part about them is the clear colored gel makes it easy for your to wear them with open-toed pumps or a sexy pair of strappies without anyone noticing.  Perfect for day to day wear around the office and straight into happy hour.. without even blinking!

 Carmex Limited Edition 

Retail: $1.59- $4.29

These fantabulous babies are only available while supplies last, so I highly recommend you get on this!  Carmex  (my all time favorite lippie), has released a limited edition duo including its Original balm along with a brand new flavor; Winter Mint.  It smells as good as it sounds and is super festive for the holidays!  The special BOGO offer is a great way to stock up for the season, and try out the brand's best seller.  Also, the brand is always sharing special offers  

 

Z Palette

Retail: $20.00 (Large)

Every makeup hoarder knows storage is always an issue.  There's nothing like fishing around in your organizer for that bronzer that you KNOW was in there yesterday.. wasn't it?  Enter Z Palette.  This eco-friendly, card board buddy lets you store as many eye shadows, bronzers, blushers etc. as your little heart desires, all in one place.  Using the de-potting technique to pop your makeup out of its original compact, you then attach a magnet to its bottom and place it into the Z Palette.  This is a superb gift idea for the makeup junkie looking to save space, and awesome for those who travel. Each palette comes equipped with metal stickers and are available in a slew of sassy shades.                 

 

Earth Kiss Pore Cleanse

Retail:$2.99

We all have someone on our list that deserves a little pampering and healthy R&R.  I learned about Earth Kiss at the recent SHE's Fit event, and I've been addicted ever since.  Earth Kiss contains 6 face masks for a range of skin types, all energized with 85 plant micronutrients found in Himalayan Shilajit.  The Detox Mud  made my skin feel so clean and refreshed, and the .59 oz. packet goes a long way.  They're super affordable and serve as an easy, effective at home spa treatment.  So grab one of each and give all your besties the gift of de-stressing after the holidays!

 

  lauren b. Beauty Nail & Cuticle Balm

Retail: $30.00 

 

lauren b.'s Nail & Cuticle Balm is a definite must have for the nail addict on your list.  This luxe, rich hydrator uses amino acid complex and biotin to restore parched, straggly cuticles to their prime.  Made with sweet almond oil and mango it smells absolutely delicious!  It comes in a convenient click pen and is perfect for the girl on the go.  She can toss it in her purse and dab it on whenever she needs.  EZ as 1-2-3!     

Have you started your holiday shopping yet?  Are you considering nay of the items above?

FreeBeautyEvents November Giveaway

Many of you out there already know about my addiction to Freebeautyevents.com.  It's one of my favorite beauty websites because it's an awesome resource and a great way to snag some killer free samples. Yes- FREEE!!  Each month the site gives away a bundle chalk full of the industry's latest must haves, and this month's is mouth watering goodies could be all yours...

 

November's Beauty Basket Giveaway includes products from Vaseline, KISS, Essie, Nexxus, Simple Skincare, Milani Cosmetics and more! The Contest runs from now through 11/30/15 and winners will be chosen on 12/5/2015 and notified by 12/15/2015. Entering is simple!  Visit FreeBeautyEvents on Facebook (don't forget to like them!) or enter directly on their website. 

Besides the monthly giveaways, the site also offers great beauty advice and product reviews on their blog.  Like any of the products you read about?  Keep your eyes open for your chance to stock up!  Easy as 1-2-3, just enter your zip code into the site's search bar to find out which locations in your area might be handing out samples.  It's a helpful way to keep up to date with the beauty events happening in your town.    

  

 

Get more on FreeBeautyEvents.com:

Facebook 

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New Release: Toppik Brow Building Fibers Set

 Last month I was invited to stop by Blushington NYC at the fabulous Le Parker Meridien to try out the latest brow magic on the scene.  Toppik, famously known for their amazing hair products, have recently used their technology to help us solve our eyebrow woes.  

Toppik's unique brow fibers work differently than lining with eye shadows, gels or brow pencils.  The two-step Brow Building Fibers Set is advertised as being able to create the most natural looking fullness and definition using innovative, textured- fiber technology.  A two step system, it contains lightweight wax which is designed to shape, define, and prep your brows for the fibers.   Then, colored keratin fibers provide texture and buildable coverage to effortlessly give brows definition and fullness.  

 

How it Works:

1.) Apply the Brow Shaping Wax with the angled side of the Dual- End Brush.

2.) Dip the rounded tip of the Dual- End Brush in to the Brow Building Fibers.  Lightly dab onto brows to fill in sparse areas to create definition.  

I always have the same two issues when coloring my brows.  One; my hair is red and my eyebrows are blond.  So finding a color that looks natural is often a challenge.  And two; for whatever reason, I tend to have trouble following their shape and keeping the color in the lines.  

Toppik worked well enough and surprisingly, didn't require much work.  The wax is really lightweight- similar to a lip balm- and is easy to apply.  I usually use the brush, but have also used my finger when rushing. Something to note about the wax is that it contains great elements like avocado and Jojoba oils to help tame unruly hairs and shea butter to condition skin. 

 

The fibers are made with keratin protein and have a static charge that is supposed to bind them to your brow.  I felt like I could almost see the static charge while the fibers we just sitting in the tray.  They didn't appear the same as regular power or shadow.  I think this is why I had a trouble picking them up when I dipped in my brush.  I found it easier to kind of scoop them on to the brush.    

Once the fibers made contact with the wax, they grabbed on really well and didn't leave a trace of fall out.   I used light brown and applied about two coats before I was satisfied.  Overall, the fibers have great staying power and allow you to play around with the intensity levels to create the look you want. 

Before

After

 

Colors include Light Brown, Medium Brown and Dark Brown.

Retail:  $19.95 

 Shop it here

   

  

Holiday Release: Chandon Limited Edition Holiday Bottle

Tis' (almost) the season and I cannot WAIT!  I love the holidays for many reasons, and one of them is the excuse to dress up and pop some bubbly!   This season, Chandon has released a gorgeous new limited edition holiday bottle in honor of you and your besties celebrating this special time of year.  

I recently attended the launch event where I got an up close look at the dazzling new bottle, which is totally festive.  It's draped in a chic winter white with fun catch phrases like "Let's catch up" and "Bestie wishes" in shimmering gold script.  

 

Chandon's Blanc de Noirs is absolutely delicious.  Its taste profile lists berries, spice, full bodied and is on the dry side.  One sip is light, crisp and goes down really smoothly, which I attribute to the berry, spice combination.  You taste the subtle sweetness with just a bit of snap to it  It's a prime gift idea for the party goer on your list, or if you're searching for something to bring to this season's family gathering.  They're sure to love it and the best part is, the taste is so exquisite, no one would guess it only set you back a mere $24.00.

 

Available now through January 31st so be sure to snag a bottle and get ready to toast the holiday season! #Cheers #Bestiewishes

 

Shop Chandon 

  

Have you tired Chandon?  What did you think?

*This beverage should be bought by/given to someone of at least 21 years of age*

 

adidas Fall/Winter Collection 2015

 As always, adidas kills it for the Fall/Winter 2015 season with new pieces that are totally functional and of course, super stylish.

 The Terrex Boost GTX is a lightweight mountain running shoe features adidas’ proprietary cushioning technology BOOST™.  It provides more energy return than any other cushioning material in the industry, making it ideal for long-­‐distance mountain runs.
Retail: $200.00

The Adizero XT 5 Boost combines adidas’ proprietary BOOST™ technology an the need for extreme activities, with its protective sock extension and tire-­‐inspired TRAXION™ on the outsole for superior grip.

Retail: $140.00

The Boost Urban Hiker is a hip, casual boot that provides endless energy return
and comfort for hiking trails and streets with adidas’ proprietary BOOST™ technology.
PrimaLoft® insulation offers warmth and a Continental® rubber outsole provides extraordinary grip.

Retail: $180.00

 

terrex TechRock GTX Jacket is a high-­‐end, waterproof and breathable 3 layer GORE- TEX® Pro Shell jacket was created to protect is user in extremely rough conditions.  Combining maximum protection with packability and light weight, it's ideal for ice climbers and mountaineers.  With extra attention to the design pattern, the terrez TechRock GTX Jacket guarantees unrestricted freedom of movement and an athletic fit. 
Retail: $494.00

 

 

The terrex Climaheat Agravic Down Hoodie provides warmth in cold weather conditions.  Features include 90/10 goose down with 800 fill power, heat seals on every other baffle to minimize cold spots and heat guards at the neck, sleeve and waist to stop warm air from escaping. 
.Retail: $374.00

 

  The terrex IceSky Longsleeve is a versatile lightweight fleece for intensive activities.  With its highly breathable characteristics, it can be worn as an outer or mid- layer depending on conditions and activity.  The Climawarm® fabric provides moisture management and thermal regulation. 

Retail: $79.00 

Xperior Active Top Formotion® follows the natural movement of sport for a better fit and greater comfort in motion

Retail: $64.00

   

Xperior Warm Active Tight with Tricot brushed inside main fabric

Retail: $89.00

Shop adidas

Is your closet ready for the winter?  Do you own any of these fall items?