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Bobbi Brown

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Color Focus: Soft Purples, Lilacs, Lavenders & Violets

February 3, 2010

I’m not sure if purple is “in” this season (with the exception of a part of MAC’s upcoming Spring Forecast collection) – but I’m not always one to follow the trends. When I think of spring, I think of soft colors and I love using purple on one feature for the face at a time (to avoid that purple overload look). I pulled out my soft purply colors and was surprised to find how much lilac and violets I own.

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Part 1: Eyes

For eyes, I can’t pull off all purples – some lilacs make me look like I have pink-eye but these are the ones that work for me. I would have to say my favorites are the Armani Maestro Single #10 because it has some slight gold sparkles and the new Paul & Joe Purple Clover from spring (waves to Josie for her wonderful swatch and review here).

1. Giorgio Armani Maestro Quad 6 Mineral
2. Giorgio Armani Maestro Single 10
3. NARS Duo Eyeshadow Violetta
4. MAC Violet, Dear (discontinued)
5. Laura Mercier Luster Eyeshadow Dusk (mini size from GWP)
6. Paul & Joe Face & Eyecolor CS in Purple Clover 066
7. MAC Eyeshadow Pro Palette in Crystal
8. Laura Mercier Mineral Eye Powder in Crushed Amethyst
9. Trish McEvoy Eyeshadow in Haze
10. Paul & Joe Eyeshadow Velvet Ribbon 06
11. MAC Pigment in Kitchmas
12. MAC Pigment in Lovely Lily (l/e)
13. MAC Pigment in Circa Plum (l/e)

* Please note, I’m not a fan of that Nars Violetta swatch, the lighter matte shade doesn’t always go on as muddy dark as it did on my arm

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Part 2: Lips

For lips, I can’t wear straight purples or lilacs for the lips. Most of these are either sheer or have some pink pearl in them to give a soft cool pink lip. My favorites are Laura Mercier’s Violet & Lilac Lip Glaces.

1. Bobbi Brown Brightening Lipgloss Pink Lilac
2. Laura Mercier Plumping Lipgloss in Wild Berry
3. Laura Mercier Lip Glace in Violet
4. Laura Mercier Lip Glace in Lilac
5. MAC Lustreglass in Morning Glory
6. MAC Lipglass Nico Now (l/e)
7. MAC Lipglass Fast Friends (l/e)
8. Nars Chastity Lip Gloss
9. Nars Sweet Charity Lip Gloss
10. Chanel Glossimer in Delight
11. Laura Mercier Stickgloss Lip Color in Purple Haze

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Part 3: Nails

I’m not the biggest fan of purple nails. I got a few of these as gifts yet can’t bring myself to regift them or give them away (because often times it’s the thought that counts). I desperately wanted to love Chanel’s Rodeo Drive (gorgeous violet purple) but it was simply too bright for my comfort. Chanel’s Lilac Sky is much more doable for me. I do like lighter purples for the nails, I also have a photo/swatch of Le Metier Phlox here, but it’s currently MIA.

Pinkie to Thumb: Sephora by OPI Call Your Mother, OPI Parlez-Vous OPI?, MAC Love & Friendship, Chanel Violette (euro exclusive), Chanel Lilac Sky


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Weekend Shopping Finds

February 1, 2010

I went to the mall to do some returns while checking out the Bobbi Brown Corals Collection. I found some cute things – not all makeup related, so if you’re only interested in the makeup part, I apologize!

Stop #1: J.Crew – I went in to return a scarf that I wasn’t so wowed with after my initial purchase but there were so many pretty new spring clothes, I couldn’t resist trying on a few things.

Rose Vines Bandaged Dress Item #25270 $138
(couldn’t find this online yet though)
+ the newest catalog


Tried on a cotton ruffle dress in XS (left) which was super comfy but just looked odd with the ruffles near the bust. I don’t remember the item number but I can’t find it online either. It retailed for $69.50 and also came in a light grey color. Also tried the Rose Vines Bandaged Dress in Size 2 (right) which I ended up purchasing. It’s difficult to see up close but the top has banded layers of fabric.


Frances Heart Cami Item #24735 which is currently on sale for $69.99. This is in Size 0. It looks way better on the model at Jcrew. A bit frilly but I still thought it was cute.

This is my favorite look from the new catalog.


Stop #2: Nordstrom – Bobbi Brown Cabana Corals haul plus some other browsing.

Bobbi Brown Cabana Corals Haul (which you saw yesterday)


Didn’t buy any of these since I don’t have babies – but looking at these makes me want to have them. I just about died when I saw those baby boy Pumas.


Stop #3: Saks – I snapped pics of the upcoming Laura Mercier Exclusive set which has the Pink Rose Blush Quad, Bold Berries Eyeshadow Quad, 2 mini brushes, full size Babydoll Lipgloss, a mini mascara and mini foundation primer. I actually saw this at SCP a few weeks ago and I was under the impression it was for sale. My local Saks said it’s only available for presale right now. I can’t remember the price, but I want to say around $65-68ish?


Picked up the YSL Spring Highlighter + Armani Maestro Quad #6.


Stop #4: Sephora – Tarte Cheek Stain in Tipsy, a nice soft but healthy coral-pink.


What did you find this weekend?

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Bobbi Brown Cabana Corals Collection Spring 2010

January 31, 2010

Bobbi Brown’s second spring release this year focuses on a coral theme featuring universal modern corals. I was able to check it out in person yesterday and I came home with Shimmer Lipglosses in Sunset Beach, Golden Nectar, Coral Sand, Pot Rouge in Cabo Coral, and Nectar Shimmer Brick.


The counter didn’t have the older Calypso Coral in their tester unit so I decided to get the new one anyways. I compared the new Cabo Coral to the old Calypso Coral and Becca Tuberose. They are pretty similar, the older Calypso Coral has more pink where the new Cabo Coral is more of a straight coral. Becca Tuberose clearly has some pink similar to the Calypso Coral.


Those who are scared of bright blush – don’t be afraid to try Bobbi Brown’s Pot Rouges. They are very blendable and are great for both lips and cheeks. I prefer to use them on cheeks though. If you’re still scared or find these are still too bright, look into Trish McEvoy’s Liquid Face Color for a softer peach with a bit of shimmer.


I already had the Nectar Shimmer Brick from Neiman’s Exclusive Release which cost $45 each in a smaller heavy metal magnetized compact. I only found out about the release of the Nectar Shimmer Brick in the regular size after my purchase. I kinda felt like kicking myself for caving into such a splurge but the compact is cute and pretty. I purchased the regular sized Nectar from the new collection as a gift for my sister. It is identical in color to the Neiman’s release.

Apricot Shimmer Brick compared to Nectar Shimmer Brick:

Here are my comparisons to other coral-peachy blushes including Chanel In Love, Bobbi Brown Coral Shimmer Blush, Nars Deep Throat and Nars Torrid.

Here are my swatches of the cheek items:


I also compared the new lipglosses to my other peachy-coral lipglosses. Left to right:

1. Chanel Coral Reef
2. Chanel Candy Glow
3. Bobbi Brown Sandy Beige
4. Coral Sand
5. Golden Nectar
6. Sunset Beach
7. Brightening Peach
8. Nectarine
9. Peach Blossom
10. Sandwash Apricot
11. Love Nectar

Swatched below, please note below is a different order:


My thoughts:

  • The standouts are the Nectar Shimmer Brick and Lipglosses. I love corals but can’t really pull of stronger corals and oranges (except for cheeks). If you’re a corals fan you will like this collection.
  • *UPDATE* I also saw the Coral Eye and Lip Palette at Neimans and passed – the only color I was interested in was Burnt Sugar which I already have. The palette itself is gorgeous, I just knew it would be too warm for me.
  • I passed on all the lipsticks because they looked too orangey for my taste. The Metallic Lip Colors were gorgeous, but I’ve had bad experiences with breakage – they are so soft that about 1/4 of mine have already broken at the base. All the testers were already broken as well.
  • I’m not quite sure that I think this collection is really “universal”. I do think most women can find at least 1 item they will like. But they aren’t the most unique colors.
  • I find the corals a bit too monochromatic – I really liked her lipglosses but the lipsticks were all too peachy and orangey. On my face, it would end up looking clown-like.
  • Although I’m happy she has released the Pink Quartz Shimmerbrick again, it doesn’t quite seem to fit with the theme.
  • I wish there were eyeshadows featured with the collection or at least recommendations of what to use with the lips and cheeks.
  • Her website introduces the Cabana Corals collection as “Bobbi’s fresh take on an old-school favorite.” My question is what is the old-school favorite? Is it the Pink Quartz Shimmer Brick or is it the Cabo Coral Pot Rouge as a revamped version of Calypso Coral? While this isn’t a huge deal – I find the message a bit confusing.

Overall – it’s definitely worth checking out especially for that Nectar Shimmerbrick. If you missed out on Pink Quartz the first round, then I highly recommend you get it now. It’s lovely!

As a courtesy, I’d like to ask that these photos NOT be republished on other sites. Thank you!

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Today’s Look: Tarnished Steel Silk Ribbon Tank + Grey Eyes + Pink Lips/Cheeks

January 15, 2010

So today I decided I would branch out a bit and show you more of my whole look – basically what makeup items I picked to coordinate with my outfit of the day. I didn’t have much on today’s agenda except for a lunch date with friends and a few errands to run (yes, I know it’s a rough life being on school break).

I know some of you prefer I stick to writing about makeup and after this post, I think I will. I suppose one benefit of this is that you can see a bit more of my style which you might say doesn’t exist. I tend to be very basic and simple with my clothing, not the most creative or fun, but it’s what I feel comfortable with so it works for me. My makeup tends to reflect my clothing style as well: simple and natural looking. For reference, I am petite at 5’3″. So much for trying to be a little creative, but here goes.

The outfit of the day:

  • Silk Ribbon Pleated Shell in Tarnished Steel from Banana Republic
  • Thin Cashmere White Cardigan from Jcrew (this is from over a year ago, so no link)
  • Paige Hollywood Hills Jeans
  • Quilted black purse/tote
  • Black strappy sandals from Banana Republic (from about 3 years ago, so no link)

The face of the day items used include:

Cheeks
MAC Golden Bronzer
Paul & Joe Face Color 001

Eyes
MAC Bare Study
Bobbi Brown Galaxy Cream Eyeshadow
Dolce & Gabbana Champagne Quad
Dolce & Gabban Stromboli Eyeliner
Diorshow mascara

Lips
Bobbi Brown Ballet Pink Lipliner
Chantecaille Camelia Lipchic
Paul & Joe Lip Lacquer 06

The products against the steel grey tank
(not recommended since I almost dropped my lipstick on my dry-clean only tank)


Swatched on bare skin


One more view


I used all four shades in the Dolce & Gabbana Champagne quad and really liked the result. I applied MAC Bare Study Paint Pot first all over the lid, then dusted the light lilac-gold shade from lash line to the middle of the eyelid. I then put the dusty brown mixed with the black smudged along upper lash line blended upwards. Dolce & Gabbana Stromboli was lined and smudged over upper lash line as well with the black shadow reapplied on top for extra definition.

MAC Golden Bronzer was applied on the cheeks like blush with the Paul & Joe 001 Face Color dusted lightly as a highlighter and to give a bit of pink to the cheeks.

The lips were a neutral healthy pink. Overall, I was happy with the result. FYI the Dolce & Gabbana quads have the best pigment that I’ve tried, they just don’t swatch well on a bare arm without any moisturizer or makeup base. I hope the swatches won’t deter you from checking out their quads!

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Ten Things I’m Loving Right Now

January 15, 2010

It was really hard for me to narrow my list down to only 10 things this month! Since I’ve already featured quite a bit of the new spring 2010 items, I decided to feature 10 non-new/non-spring releases that I’m loving right now.


1. MAC Sunny By Nature Mineralized Skin Finish – I’m a sucker for bronzers and MAC MSFs and fell in love with this one when it was released last July with the Color Craft Collection. Looks dark and almost muddy in the container, but on the skin it’s a nice natural satiny bronze. I love that it’s not too shimmery (which most MSFs are). I hope MAC makes more MSFs in this kind of finish! If you missed out, check your local CCOs, I saw this along with Cheeky Bronze at my local CCO a week ago.


2. Bobbi Brown Nude Beach Metallic Eyeshadow – This was released as an exclusive with the Nordstrom Anniversary Exclusives but is also in the (X Palette). You all know I’m obsessed with neutrals, Nude Beach is a pretty shimmery, but not overly frosty, nude shimmer with great pigment and lasting power.


3. MAC Eyeshadow Brush #239 – This is hands down the best MAC eyeshadow brush I own. I think it’s a must-have for everyone. It’s so versatile and soft which makes blending a no-brainer. I have a soft spot for all of MAC’s white-haired brushes, I wish they would make more shapes and sizes.

4. Nars Ondine Eyeshadow – This is one of the few eyeshadows I have ever hit pan on (the one pictured is my second one). I wouldn’t say it’s for everyone – those who can’t pull off plummy browns will probably find this looks bruisey on their skin. I really like this though because it has a complex combination of brown, plum and gold all mixed into one shadow. Those who wanted to love MAC Starviolet but found it too purpley will like Nars Ondine. The Nars is a more wearable, more brown, more grown-up and less trendy version of the MAC.


5. Edward Bess Bare Rose Lip Gloss – Not your typical milky pink, but still light enough to give a pretty natural pink lip. If you’re a fan of Nars Chihuahua, you will definitely like the EB Bare Rose which has a fig-scent, slightly sticky texture, long lasting, and high shine.


6. Dolce & Gabbana Sparkling Lipstick – I got this from the D&G Holiday Collection from Saks NY and it’s the most unique sparkling copper/nude/gold lipstick I’ve ever seen. It’s very pigmented and frosty, so those who don’t like metallic lips, you may not like it. The frosty-factor can be toned down with a cream colored gloss though.


7. Shu Uemura P Gold 94 Glow On – This is a blush I like to use as a highlighter for cheeks and eyes. It’s a light-medium shimmery flesh-toned gold with gold flecks. I like that it’s not completely gold or yellowy. It seems more pigmented than most of Shu Uemura’s Glow On Blushes, perhaps it’s the metallic aspect that gives it more pigment.


8. Paul & Joe Caramel 04 Lipliner – This is the creamiest lipliner I’ve ever tried. It glides on more smoothly than MAC Cremestick Liners (which I love) and the Caramel is the perfect YLBB nude-pink-brown. I bought this thanks to the recommendation of Hettie from Bergdorf Goodman. Lipliners were one of the few P&J items I hadn’t tried yet, so I asked her to pick out 2 colors for me, #04 Caramel was one of them and I can see myself getting a lot of use out of it.


9. Chanel Glow Glossimer – Pretty soft glowiness that’s hard to describe. It has peach and pink and bronze in it, makes my lips look full and glowing. The lasting power isn’t the best on this one, but I don’t mind reapplying it.


10. Paul & Joe Canyon 16 Face Color – Soft light pink and cool-toned shimmery highlighter. I like this for a natural angelic-pink blush. It goes on very soft and natural. It might not show up on MAC NC40s or darker though because it’s on the lighter side.


What’s on your list this month?

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Eyeshadow Comparisons For Marina, Lakshmi & Josie

January 5, 2010

I have been procrastinating on a few comparison requests and thought I’d post this in case anyone else had the same questions. I plan to be a better blogger this upcoming year and be more on top of things!

Comparison Project #1: How does Edward Bess Intimate compare to other shades, particularly Chantecaille Pyrite & Benefit Fawn Over Me?


Chantecaille Pyrite has more gold while Edward Bess is definitely more taupe/brown. Benefit Fawn Over Me might look like a close dupe at first glance, but looking more closely will show that it’s more of a paler sandy champagne compared to the Edward Bess. Here it is compared to similar shades.

Top: Chantecaille Pyrite, Edward Bess Intimate, Laura Mercier Bamboo
Middle: Scott Barnes Sable, Benefit Fawn Over Me, Guerlain Sable Blonde
Bottom: Becca Mermaid, Nars Cyprus, Benefit Fawn Over Me


1) Chantecaille Pyrite
2) Edward Bess Intimate
3) Laura Mercier Bamboo
4) Scott Barnes Sable
5) Benefit Birthday Suit
6) Guerlain Sable Blonde
7) Becca Mermaid
8) Nars Cyprus
9) Benefit Fawn Over Me


Bottom line: In my opinion, there is nothing like Edward Bess Intimate and I find it different enough to justify owning even if you have any of the above shades. This post will be updated later this afternoon with swatches.

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Comparison Project #2: Is Bobbi Brown Java Metallic similar to the brown shade in Nars Brousse?


Bobbi Brown Java is a cooler mouse-grey when compared to Nars Brousse which seems to have a tinge of red. By itself you would barely be able to detect any red tones to Nars Brousse. I’ve also compared it to a few other medium-dark cool-toned browns.

Top: Edward Bess Mystery, Bobbi Brown Java Metallic, Nars Brousse
Bottom: Cle de Peau Satin 106, MAC Magnetic Fields, Jouer Espresso


1) Edward Bess Mystery
2) Bobbi Brown Java Metallic
3) Nars Brousse
4) CdP 106
5) MAC Magnetic Fields
6) Jouer Espresso


What’s the verdict? Are these different enough to justify owning all? Probably not unless you are a brown eyeshadow fanatic like me. This section will also be updated with swatches if my camera will cooperate with me later today. While I love the Cle de Peau 106, it can look a bit bruisey on my Chanel Shell (equals MAC NC30-35) skin and it’s the least shimmery.

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Bobbi Brown Brightening Lip Gloss

December 21, 2009

I was browsing Nordstrom yesterday and was surprised to see that Bobbi Brown and Clinique had already put up their spring collection tester units. The newest collection for Spring 2010 is her Face Lift Collection which includes 2 new brightening lipglosses, new brow pencils, a new eye cream, 2 eyeshadows, and a twist-click pen eye brightener. The collection also includes 2 repromoted pot rouges.

I ended up getting the Popsicle (brighter pink) & Nectar (pink-peach) Brightening Lipglosses. Here they are photographed with the rest of the Brightening Lipglosses:


Swatches in the same order. BEFORE you write these off as being too sheer, I want to reiterate to you that my swatches aren’t capable of capturing the true glowiness or pigment. While these are sheer, they aren’t completely transparent like these swatches make them seem. I highly recommend you check these out in person before making up your mind.

L to R: Pink, White, Peach, Pink Lilac, Popsicle, Nectar

L to R: Pink, White, Peach, Pink Lilac, Popsicle, Nectar


Bobbi Brown’s Brightening Lipglosses are a sheer version of her regular lipglosses with the slightest hint of shimmer/sheen to them. They are supposed to be infused with “brightening pearls” which create a fuller-lip look. I already have full lips, so I can’t really say if these truely make my lips fuller, but I can say I like these over any cream or shimmer lipstick. Many times I have a cream lipstick on that needs just the slightest bit of moisture to it b/c by itself it looks too dry – I avoid adding clear lipglosses because most times it looks too shiny and adding a bit of lipbalm makes it wear off faster. These are good because they enhance your lips while adding a bit of color and they aren’t too frosty or too flat.

I’m not the biggest fan of that bristle brush she has in these tubes, but I’m happy with the formula, scent and the fact that these tiny tubes seem to last FOREVER. For me, her lipglosses are also the longest lasting glosses. They do tend to be a bit tacky/sticky, but the finish is pretty so I don’t really mind.

I passed on the rest of the spring collection, although I might go back for the Caviar Eyeshadow which was released in her last Nudes eyeshadow palette – it’s the perfect matte black for me because it doesn’t look grey or blueish on my skin like most blacks do.

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