Friday, August 31, 2012

New York Fashion Week Fashion's Night Out





This season's Mercedes Benz New York Fashion Week is literally just around the corner and I know all you fashionistas out there are just as anxious as I am!  New trends, hot styles, fresh colors- it's all about to happen and you don't want to miss the chance to celebrate and be involved.

For Fashion's Night Out the superstar team of Redken is hosting a stylish night to remember! There will be fabulous deals on brand new products, the chance to try out the latest hair styles, and all while dining on complimentary refreshments!   Spend the night getting glammed up and enjoy being a fashionista!

Click here for details!

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

TheBalm Shady Lady Eye Palette Vol. 1 and Plump Your Pucker Lip Gloss






Right off the bat, theBalm cosmetics had me drooling over their fun, flirty patterns and now their newest launch at select Perfumania stores, makes it easy to stock up on all your favs.  This playful but edgy line wears with up-to-the-minute trends and offers a series of total "must have" products. 

PR recently provided me with the sleek "Shady Lady" vol. 1 eye palette and "Plump Your Pucker" lip gloss in Water Me Melon. This "Shady Lady" palette is dressed in a chic yellow and black cheetah print compact and a FULL sized mirror inside (the kind you can actually see your whole face in).  Inside are 9 delicious shimmering shades, (3 of which double as a liner) and among them are some of this season's hottest bronzes for creating today's revamped smokey eye. 

The shadows are super pigmented with amazing staying power (even on the day I ran out of primer!).  Eager to get started, I applied "Jet Setting Jennifer" as my creamy ivory base, swept glimmering bronze "Shameless Shana" across my lid and added "Caught in the Act Courtney" for a rich chocolate through my crease.  Blending was quick and easy and the result was a soft but show stopping, sultry smoky eye.  I loved that no shadow fell off under my eyes during application (not just a pain to wipe off, but such a waste of makeup!) and best of all, NO creasing by the end of the day. 
It's a totally charming palette that I've come to really love, and believe it is worth every penny.

Retail: $39.50

TheBalm's "Plump Your Pucker" lip gloss in Water Me Melon was the perfect finishing touch to give me that full pout and make my smoked out baby blues really pop.  It had a light watermelon scent with no taste and I felt a brief tingling sensation for about 30 seconds after application.  Its customized mixture of menthol and vitamin C help circulation and reduce the appearance .of fine lines while theBalm's exclusive Maxi Lip formula hydrates and plumps lips to the max.  It glided on a sheer, natural looking pink with the faintest hint of gold shimmer enhanced the overall shine.  The soft tones warmed my look into that signature JLo glow (which I SO adore) and did it with lasting shine, color and NO sticky residue.  With five other playful shades like Cherry My Cola and Passion My Fruit its a fun collection with hues for a girl's every mood.

Retail: $15.00

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Benefit's The Pore- fessional



Today's makeup application was going the same as every other day- except for the mysterious gem that tumbled out of my make up bag.  After recently trying a bottle from Benefit's Hello Flawless foundation collection (which I LOVED) a small sample of Benefit's the Pore fssional Pro Balm been included without my noticing.  

Imagine my surprise when I began applying it and watched my pores vanish before my eyes!  I was NOT expecting that (particularly so early in the morning) and it was certainly a "good morning" wake up to my overall look.  I have been tying relentlessly for months to minimize pores, with minimal success. 

After some research I found that this cream does not actually reduce their size, but covers well enough to reduce their appearance.  With an effective way to hide them (while I continue my quest for an effective minimizer) it makes tolerating them a little easier (and me a little less self conscious). 

More amazing was that this small sample was enough to fully cover the spots around my nose, eyes, and forehead, with still some left over.  That being said, I think it's safe to say a "little dab'll do ya" and this product will most likely last you a long time. 

It was extremely lightweight with a creamy but powder like texture to it and it wore so nicely throughout my day.  It didn't smudge off or fade, and my skin felt silky smooth in the areas I had applied it.  Even though I basically don't have enough left for more then tomorrow's application, I can honestly say I really like this product and would definitely recommend it. 

Retail: $30.00

Sunday, August 19, 2012

Jessica Simpson's Vintage Bloom

When I was asked to sample fashion icon Jessica Simpson’s newest fragrance Vintage Bloom I couldn’t resist. I’m drawn to flirty florals and this delicate scent had me captivated in seconds. Inspired by Jessica’s passion for “… the sweet allure of flowers in full bloom, sun-drenched afternoons and cosy evenings with someone…” it is a gentle blend of calabrese lemon and caipirinha top notes, peony and raspberry blossom at the heart, and indian sandalwood and musk at the base. I felt so soft and feminine wearing this scent, and loved how it carried on my skin. It was very subtle and airy, setting a tone of ease and simplicity. A gentle combo of sweetness and musk trailed behind me, although I did have to reapply once or twice. I that found after a couple of hours a hint of musk still lingered lightly but the citrusy elements fell slightly faint. A lovely, romantic blend it leaves you simply desirable with an irresistible allure.

Available at Macy's 1.7 oz: $49.00

Friday, August 17, 2012

Oscar Blandi Pronto Instant Glossing Cream



Instead of struggling with unwanted frizz, Oscar Blandi Pronto Instant Glossing Cream has made pesky frizz back off!  I'd made the decision to minimize my use of heat styling this season and the Glossing Cream has made it incredibly easy to wear my curls au naturel.  A total necessity in my latest hair regimen, its combination of keratin protein and wheat amino acids significantly reduce frizz and work deep inside the cuticle to maintain moisture.  It was love at fist use when I ran the lightweight, velvety smooth cream through my hair and it left me with head full of superstar locks!  I applied to both dry and wet hair (which I let dry naturally) and the outcome was the same; ultra shiny, touchably smooth tresses.  The pro- vitamin B4 worked continuously to condition my hair and I couldn't help but want to run my fingers through its silkiness.  My hair never once looked or felt greasy.  Whether you prefer a salon style blow out or let your locks fall naturally, using this cream as your base (or finisher) will nourish you hair and give you a sleek, lustrous finish.  Available at Sephora and at BlandiProducts.com for $21.00, its a solid investment with a lasting life span. 

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Introducing Pureology's Precious Oil Haircare System featuring Revolutionary Shmp' Oil


This month Pureology is launching their Precious Oil Haircare System featuring Revolutionary Shamp' Oil and I couldn't have been more thrilled when PR asked me to try it.  The line combines Pureology's uniquely formulated OleoAntiFade Complex with sunflower seed oil, coconut oil, olive oil and jojoba oil.  Together they work to restore color in faded locks and transform dry hair into supple locks.  My hair is not colored, but tends to get dry and dull looking with a constant need for revival.  This line was just what the doctor ordered!

I started with the Shamp' Oil followed by the Precious Oil Conditioner.  In a league of its own, Sham' Oil is the first with ZeroSulfate and ZeroSilicone concentrated oil formula.  It's specially designed to send 4Xs the amount of vital ingredients directly into the hair fiber for intensified results that left my hair baby soft.  Both had a deliciously sweet scent with thick, rich textures that didn't weigh down my hair.  Almost instantly my hair felt nourished and silkier, even before I rinsed them out. 

They said results would be visible after just one use and, drum roll please?!.....

It's TRUE.

The Precious Oil Softening Hair Masque gave on the spot, radical results to my hair.  I applied the masque and let it sit for about 4 minutes before rinsing it out.  Within seconds my hair was slipping through my fingers as it turned silky smooth.  When it was brushed and dried it had an unmistakable shine and my natural blond highlights stood out more vividly.

I've come to really admire this line because though it works toward color preservation, its totally effetive on natural, dry hair in need of some TLC.  This magical blend of precious oils caters to your stressed hair and is definately this season's secrect weapon for those luscious locks us ladies crave!

My Valentina Nights




Valentina Parfums have just announce the “My Valentina Nights” Instagram contest which invites you to celebrate beautiful city images! Just upload a stunning or exciting image of your city at night on Instagr.am (tagged with #MyValentinaNights) for a chance to win a weekend in Rome!


Now through August 31st 2012 you can enter by clicking here and see a selection of the best photos posted on the Valentino Facebook Contest Tab to try for the grand prize!!
Good Luck!

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

A Note of Thanks...

Hi Lovelies!

I just wanted to take a second to thank EVERYONE who participated in the Softlips Splash of Color Sweepstakes!!  I'm so grateful for all your enthusiasm and support for both Softlips and PlushPinkAllure.  I hope you all check back again because I've got so much planned, and the next fabulous giveaway is just around the corner!

Warmly,
PlushPinkAllure xo

Saturday, August 11, 2012

Sally Hansen Magnetic Nail Color


Not being able to resist Sally Hansen's Magnetic Nail Color , I picked up the bottle of Red-y Response and before I knew it I was gawking at the pure magic it left at my finger tips.  This innovative line of polishes contains metallic particles that react when placed under the customized magnetic strip, and I couldn’t help but wonder “how did they do that??”





Using the polish was tricky at first but was easy to master.  Directions state to apply two coats with the second being THICK (the thicker the coat, the stronger the effect you will have).  The outside casing of the wand slips off which you later flip over to utilize the magnetic strip.  To get sarted you paint a thin layer of polish over each nail.  Then go back and paint a thick second coat and immediately hold the magnetic strip above the freshly painted nail for ten seconds.  You must do this one nail at a time because the polish needs to be fresh in order to react to the magnet.  In doing this the first time, I had a little trouble.  I’ve found that the trick is to hold your hand at eye level whie letting the magnet hover above the wet nail with your free hand.  Performing this at eye level is key beacause  it allows you to actually see where the magnet is hitting the polish.  This will  A.) Keep you from missing the edges or down by the cuticle and B.) Prevent the magnet from touching your nail and smudging the polish.  You will be able to see the polish ract to the magnet- it’s pretty cool- and it dries quickly. 
I had a blast with this polish and wouldn’t hesitate to try another shade.  This particular shade was more on the plum side then red, but the effect was incredibly unique and had a professional salon finish.  A totally fab way to add a little edge to your look for any season!

Retail: $8.99

Thursday, August 9, 2012

Benefit's Hello Flawless Oxygen Wow SPF 25 PA+++


Good bye, flaws and Hello Flawless!  A friend gave me her bottle of Benefit's Hello Oxygen Wow Brightening Makeup with SPF 25 PA+++ because the “I’m Pure 4 Sure” shade of ivory was too light for her.   I usually struggle to find foundations that actually cover and match well with my skin so I decided to give this one a try. 
I swooned over its charming packaging in a glossy silver and white box with playful pink accents.  As I pulled out the sleek 1 oz bottle, I swooned over the fact that it was in a pump (SO perfect for preventing bacteria). 

Using my finger tips, I started applying it to small areas on my face, slowly blending it in all over.  At first glance it seemed a smidge too light, but after I followed it with some powder and blush, I had that warm, healthy glow. I sweated it out at the gym and marveled later at how well it stayed on.  The lightweight consistency was a fantastic primer for keeping the powder in place, and never once looked thick or cakey.  I also used it to cover blemishes here and there and have found it to be very reliable.  Its oil free liquid was gentle on my sensitive, sometimes dry skin and never made me break out.       

While it hides blemishes and improves the overall look of your skin tone, Benefit’s specialized Oxygen Wow Hydrating Complex has added benefits (no pun intended).  The complex aims to promote cellular respiration to give you that healthy “plump” appearance.  It uses vitamins C and E to nourish your skin as well as protect against aging and daily outside stressors.  The added SPF 25 PA+++ is not only ideal for daily use, but particularly valuable during these sizzling summer months.  With ten shades to choose from, every girl can feel beautiful and flawless!  
Retail: $34.00

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Texas School for the Deaf Unveils it's Global Green USA's National Green School Makeover Competion Presented by Pureology




The past few months Pureology and Global Green USA have partnered to help those at the Texas School for the Deaf make vast improvments in an effort to go green.  Now that the Green School Makeover is complete, The Texas School for the Deaf has been announced as the proud winner and home to brand new conservations methods and waste reduction.  Check out their video to see their makover first hand and learn how you can join in the effort to Go Green!

Pureology Control Twist High Liquid Wax


As my crush on Pureology gorws, I was thrilled when PR asked me to sample the line’s new Control Twist High Hold Liquid Wax .  The name alone had me curious.  Liquid wax? Hmm... I used about 2 pumps and began running it through my damp curls and quickly noticed that its lightweight texture left hardly any sticky residue.  The combination of vanilla, rose and mandarin orange gave it that same powder fresh scent as the Supreme Control Hair Spray. 

I began styling my hair and watched my curls become instantly defined, not to mention the HUGE reduction in frizz.  The mixture of olive and orange oils nourished and moisturized my hair, maintaining softness and making it easy to control.  Throughout the day my curls held their shape and stayed in place without needing a single touch up or spritz of hair spray.  I was utterly wowed by its glossy finish as the shine brought out my hair’s natural highlights (as opposed to that unattractive “wet look” left behind by gels).  I favored its ability to keep my hair soft and not weigh it down, while holding it firmly in place.  It’s as strong as a gel but maintains the qualities of a wax without sacrificing the effectiveness.

As part of Pureology’s Serious Colour Care line, it too contains the customized Strengthening Anti Fade Complex; a combination of Kravis protein to protect against breakage and full spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreens to resist environmental stressors that keep your hair color looking brilliant!  It is a match made in heaven for newly lightened or “summer-ized” locks!! 
Retail: $24.00

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

Pureology Colour Stylist Supreme Control Maximum Hold Zero Dulling Hair Spray


I was contacted by PR to try Pureology's newest Colour Stylist Supreme Control Maximum Hold Zero Dulling Hair Spray and this product couldn't have launched at a better time! I'm often a slave to my unruly, frizzy mane of curls and was dreading how to go about taming it for this summer's special events. (Like my cousin's totally posh wedding- congrats girl!! xo)

I used only Pureology's Supreme Control spray to create the romantic up do I adorned in a recent wedding and I could not have been more satisfied with the results.  The humidity that day was severe and I was sure I was going to have to walk down the aisle looking like a frizz ball but luckily that was not the case.  I sprayed it over dry spots, as well as some damp and it hardened within minutes.  The spray provided a seriously intense hold that formed a solid, stiff surface after it dried.  My hair stayed somewhat pliable though, allowing me to shape and style it as I worked.  I noticed it had a light, powdery scent that made my hair smell fresh and clean.  By the end of the night my hair was still in place and hadn’t slipped out of a single hair pin.  Most importantly, it remained frizz free and shiny throughout the entire night. 

It comes in a sizable 11oz can which is fabulous because it can be used sparingly and will last you a while.  It contains Pureology’s specialized Strengthening Anti Fade Complex to maintain vibrancy in color treated hair and gives its shine a boost.  The combination of keravis, antioxidants, vitamins C and E, help to prevent breakage and keep color locked in, while camelina extracts penetrate hair to protect against pesky humidity and frizz.  Overall it completely lives up to it's name of "Supreme Hold" and is a totally wise investment.  The perfect necessity for your hair’s summer maintenance. 

 Retail: $26.00

Sunday, August 5, 2012

Softlips Splash of Color Sweepstakes!!


Color your summer with Softlips Splash of Color Sweepstakes!! As promised, I wanted to share with my lovelies a giveaway from one of my favorite brands!  Nine lucky winners will be chosen to receive two shades of glosses from Softlips newest collection in Coral and Pearl.  Use the Coral to glam up your look with a subtle pop of color and then get that fresh faced glow with the Pearl!
This giveaway is open to all United States residents, so just click to enter and then retweet to your fellow lovelies!  Entries accepted 12:01AM on August 7th 2012 through August 14th 2012.  Don't miss your chance for a brighter summer with Softlips!  a Rafflecopter giveaway
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