Aveda Twisted Ponytails Backstage at Jason Wu

Hello Divas!

Always forgive and let go.  Harboring anger and resentment only poisons your body and soul.

As promised, I am updating you Divas on some fabulous beauty looks being created for Fall 2011 at New York Fashion Week.  First up, hairstyles from Aveda:

At the Jason Wu show, lead Aveda stylist Odile Gilbert created a sleek and elegant gilded twist using Aveda Smooth Infusion Glossing Straightener, Aveda Brilliant Spray-On Shine, and Aveda Control Force Firm Hold Hair Spray.   Odile also coated the hair with 24 karat gold leaf to echo the gold accents and feathers from the collection.  Now walking around with 24 karat gold leaf in your hair is definitely not "everyday practical" but the twisted ponytail is definitely different and intriguing.





And of course Jason Wu is a fashion star and never disappoints.  Love these clothes!








All photos are courtesy of Aveda.


Toodles! 

Enchanting Eyes Belt!

Remember that boyfriend with the pretty hazel eyes? Remember how quickly he caught your eye?  The Enchanting Eyes Belt does just that, catches your eye, but without any chance of heartbreak.  The Enchanting Eyes Belt is a statement piece that could be worn with minimalistic prints but would look so much better against a solid black dress or jumpsuit. Flirty white dresses are a trend for the upcoming Summer, and setting some bling like the Enchanting Eyes Belt against an all white tunic or dress will certainly break up the monotony of the outfit. I had my eye on the belt for quite some time, and I watched it sell out before it had the chance to go on sale. I will not make the same mistake twice. Get it while it's hot!

The Enchanting Eyes Belt retails for $54 and you can purchase it at Anthropologie.


Until tomorrow,




Chamele

Winner of Lancôme GWP Set "Love in Paris" is Lovin Natural!

Hello Divas!

Life is beautiful!  Find the beauty in life and just simple wonders such as a bouquet of flowers or a beautiful butterfly.  It will lift your spirits!

The winner of the Lancôme GWP Set "Love in Paris" is.....Lovin Natural!  Whoohoo!

Lovin Natural you have exactly 24 hours to contact me to claim your prize.  If I do not hear from you, it will go to the next runner-up!

Toodles!

ACTOR’S EXPRESS CELEBRATES CARNIVALE AT ITS ANNUAL FUNDRAISER

Hello Divas!

We made it to Friday! Whoohoo!  I hope you enjoy a weekend of relaxation and peace.

Actor's Express, a 23 year old theatre company located in West Midtown Atlanta, is having their Annual fundraising gala on Friday, February 18, 2011 at 8pm.  Actor's Express is dedicated to offering original voices and new perspectives that reflect Atlanta’s diverse and evolving community. At the center of AE’s mission is a commitment to new work and emerging artists. 

This year's theme is Carnivale.  Guests will be transported to Rio de Janiero as they are greeted by dynamic street performers and slip into a vibrant world filled with dancers, live music, interactive gaming booths including palm readers, tarot cards readers, a photo booth and more. A decadent VIP area will raise the temperature to sultry South American heights with burlesque performances by Minette Magnifique. The evening will also include cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a raffle and a silent auction. Funds raised at Carnivale will directly support Actor’s Express.

 

Sounds fabulous right?  Well this fundraising event is fabulous and affordable!  Actor's Express is offering different pricing options for all budgets, Samba will be $60 and includes Carnivale entry for one, two drinks and two booth tickets. Next, is Ipanema for $90 that grants Canivale entry for one, unlimited drinks, entry to VIP area and five booth tickets. Last, is Bossa Nova for $150, which gives patrons Carnivale entry for one, unlimited drinks, unlimited booth tickets, entry to VIP area, one raffle ticket and one ticket to an Actor’s Express production. Tickets are available online at www.actors-express.com, by phone at 404.607.SHOW. 

Check it out!

Toodles!

 

 

Tribal Necklaces

Remember that we previously discussed adding a statement necklace to your wardrobe? One of the ones we discussed is now on sale at Banana Republic. The Heritage Labyrinth, which once sold for $125.00, is now $49.95.  Tribal necklaces are hot for this upcoming Spring. If you want to go all over the top, Banana has also added a new necklace, priced at $225.00. The Tribal Chainsis a collared necklace which would probably look best with a round-neck or a deep cut cowl-neck that will not detract from the shape of the necklace.

Until tomorrow,


Chamele

New York Fashion Week Kicks Off Today!

Hello Divas!

Did you know positive energy is more powerful than negative energy?  If you don't believe me, just try it!

Today is the official start to New York Fashion Week.  I went two seasons ago and it was exhausting, exhilarating, beautiful and a once in a lifetime event.  Unfortunately, I have to work so I will not be in New York this season. Boo.  However, rest assured Luxetips will bring you the backstage and behind the scenes looks for Fall 2011.

For example, I just received word that ALL of Lancôme's national make-up artist including Daniel Martin will work together for the first time at the Chris Benz show.  Wowza!  Lancôme will showcase all of their new make-up for Fall 2011.  You know I love Lancôme and I can't wait to see the looks they create.

And if you don't know, Chris Benz is a fashion week sensation and is clothes are so creative and amazing.  I can't wait to see his fall line!

Photo Courtesy of Shopbop.com

Stay tuned for detailed beauty and style coverage of New York Fashion Week!

Toodles!

White House Black Market: Patent Waist Cincher

A reader asked where she could find a nice cheap patent leather waist cincher. She lives in the UK. Well,  I wished you lived in the A because I would be more than happy to have an outing with you and take you to all my favorite spots here. Patent leather, hmmm.... I had seen a multitude of patent leather skinny belts, but not any waist cinchers that I can recall.  I did a little research; and I didn't mind; I love a challenge. My search returned with the expected results, all of the couture houses had cinchers, but not in a $50 budget. I saw a lovely Yves Saint Laurent in red patent; a Giuseppe Zanotti pastel mix for $333.19; a Burberry Prosum lime green for $495.00; a classic Alexander McQueen on sale for $588.00; and the most fabulous, a Suzi Roher leopard print patent for $295.00.  To add insult to injury,  the more affordable cinchers were costumey, reminiscent of Halloween, and not G rated costumes either. The key to pulling off a patent waist cincher is to make sure the rest of the outfit is clean and perhaps on the dressier side. 

The last man standing: White House Black Market (MIL's favorite) has a lovely black patent, in limited quantities, selling for $58.00.  And White House ships to the UK. International shipping is $30.00 per order and subject to import duties and taxes. I wish that I could provide you with more options, just keep your eyes open at online sites such as Asos and Ebay.Uk.  If the White House Black market option doesn't satisfy.

Until tomorrow,

Chamele

HOT DRUGSTORE FIND OF THE WEEK: Eucerin Daily Skin Balance Hand Creme

Hello Divas!

I am a living testimony that if you have faith, God will supply all of your needs.  Faith really makes life simple.

Well when I was trying to figure out what I was going to blog about for the "Hot Drugstore Find of the Week," I had my Eucerin Daily Skin Balance hand creme out.  I had just applied it to relieve my cracked, dry hands.  This Winter weather has been brutal on them!  But I am so glad I have my Eucerin hand creme to get me through the day.

My family has used Eucerin for years.  As a child, my Aunt would give us samples of Eucerin lotion from the hospital.  My little luxe son has a mild case of Eczema and I use Eucerin on his skin to keep it hydrated and blemish free.  I never used their hand creme until I attended Blogher 2010.  Eucerin was a vendor in the Expo Hall and they were giving out samples.  Of course, I grabbed one.  I had not used the hand creme until this Winter and since I have been using it, I am in love with it.  I use it so much, I am running out to CVS today to purchase some more.

This hand creme is beyond awesome! It is super super hydrating.  It instantly gets rids of dry skin.  My hands are smooth and soft all day long.  I really do not need to constantly re-apply the lotion unless I wash my hands.  I also use it on the luxe kids in the a.m.  I put it on their little arms and hands before sending them off to school.

In addition, Eucerin's Daily Skin Balance hand creme has a patent-pending formula that contains provitamin B5, glycerin and a pH5 buffer.

Eucerin Daily Skin Balance Hand Creme retails for $5.59, a steal, and you can purchase it online here or at any CVS.

Toodles!

Awesome Valentine's Day Gifts from: Bespoke Bijoux at Max & Chloe

Valentines Day is just around the corner. Hubby and I do not exchange large gifts. He is in that school of men that find Valentine's Day to be a "commercial" holiday created by merchants in order to get people to spend. If you know me, no one has to create a holiday in order to entice me to spend. I do agree with Hubby's assertion that we should celebrate Love everyday and not just February 14th. He will do candy, flowers and the dinner thing, but I have to say, "I would not mind something in a little box every once and full moon," (notice I didn't say blue moon, full moons come more frequently.) If he were wanting to surprise me he could choose any of the following, and if he were not around, I would certainly be loving myself with one of the nice picks below. Note: please DO NOT  wait on someone else to love you, love yourself; and here's a couple of ways how to do just that:

 

The Avanessi Love Necklace. The word "love" hangs lengthwise from the chain in a simple lowercase script. The chain is 16 inches long with a a 1.25 inch pendant.  The necklace comes in yellow, white and rose gold. I like The Avanessi Love Necklace best because it has some bling, but it is still simple.  It is modern and sleek. The Avanessi Love Necklace  sells for $200.00 atMax and Chloe.

 

I also like the Avanessi Love Ring. I would probably get the rose gold. I have been wanting rose gold lately. I have been on this pink kick for the past four or five years ( I guess I didn't get it in when I was young).  So anything pink, including jewelry catches my eye.  The Love ring is 14 karat rose gold with a diamond accent. You can find it at Max and Chloe for $298.00.

 

I know this sounds cheesy, but the Love at First Sight cuff is sooooo romantic. The 14 karat gold plate cuff has the words "love at first sight" written in braille. Get it? It is as though you are seeing with your heart. Awwww!!!!  You know you like it. The gold plate cuff is 1/4 inch wide, 2 inches in height and 2 1/2 inches in length. It fits "most" wrists. The Erica Anenberg Braille Love at First Sight Cuff at Max and Chloe for  $180.00.

 

This is the ultimate in cheese.  The West Avenue Jewelry Heart   initial heart necklace has two letters  sandwiched between a heart. Cheesy, but cute! It is the ultimate 80's. I can imagine someone in stonewashed jeans and a sweater vest with collared shirt and white Reeboks putting the necklace on then sticking her hand in her boyfriend's back pocket. The pendant is 3/4 inch high and 1 inch long and hangs on a 16 inch chain. It comes in sterling silver, gold-fill or solid 14 karat gold.

 

The Je T'aime Twosome Ring is another pretty cool and funky way to say, "I love you." I absolutely love the French language. I studied it for six years because it was so beautiful. Saying, "I love you," in French, in 14 karat gold plate, across two knuckles is worth 10 dozen roses. The Erica Anenberg Je T’aime Twosome Ring  is available at Max and Chloe for $80.00.

 

Another funky piece that caught my attention is the Cynthia H Let Love Rule Cuff.  The bracelet is a metal alloy plate with the words  “Let love rule.” The plate is connected to blush colored leather bands anchored by shiny metal links.  If you do not like any of the other cheesy pieces, this  piece has the least cheese yet still conveys the same message. The Let Love Rule Cuff is $50.00 at Max & Chloe.  

 

Beyonce said it best, "If you liked It then you shoulda put a ring on it," or a necklace, or a bracelet.. .

 

Until tomorrow,

 

Chamele

Evian Facial Spray: Refreshingly cool.

Hello Divas!

Worrying only produces wrinkles and stress. So don't sweat life.  It all works out in the end.

I love a product that wakes me up, cools me down, and keeps me refreshed.  Evian facial spray is this product.  I have the 1.7 oz sized bottle and it is perfect for traveling and easily fits in any size purse.  I started using this product last summer at the beach.  It instantly cooled me down while also making me feel awake and refreshed.  I used it on myself and the luxe kids.  They thought it was the coolest thing ever!

Evian facial spray contains the mineral properties of the original Evian water.  It also has a neutral PH.  It is great for all skin types and works best when it is used several times a day.   I still use it in the Winter months.  While it is cooling and refreshing it also moisturizes the skin.  Sometimes I spray it over my make-up to create a soft dewey look.  Creating a dewey look in the Winter months is a hard feat, but Evian facial spray make it easy.

Evian facial spray retails for $10 and is sold exclusively at Sephora.

Toodles!

Rain Rain, Go Away...

 

The last two weeks have been miserable for me with only three days of sunshine. This weekend,I saw something that definitely brightened my day. TJMaxx is now selling a slew of chic galoshes. Wellie's are not that necessary here in the A because we do not have a horribly long rainy season (or at least we didn't use to).  But I saw the chicest, trendiest wellies on a recent trip to New York that inspired me. Nothing is wrong with solid colors, but if you have to endure the rain you might as well have some fun with it. Apparently TJMaxx agrees as they have stocked several types of Juicy Couture galoshes ranging in price from $79.99 to $99.99. Below are the Juicy Couture Shower Black Pulltie Rain Boot and Juicy Couture Black Ebony Rain Boot, $99.99 and $79.99 respectively.  I saw these both at  TJMaxx on Howell Mill. If April showers bring May flowers, what do January showers bring? Juicy Couture, apparently!

 

 

Until tomorrow,

Chamele

Win Lancôme New GWP Set "Love in Paris" $103 Worth of Products Plus Bag!

Hello Divas!

I hope you all had a fabulous weekend!

 Lancôme has new GWP is that is simply to die for!   Simply spend $32.50 at the Macy's Lancôme counter and receive this gorgeous bag filled with $103 worth of FREE Lancôme products.

Some of the items you will receive are best sellers such as Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate, Rénergie Lift Volumetry and of course the best Mascara of all time, Defencils. 

 

This GWP is simply beyond amazing!  And guess what?  The gracious people at Lancôme are giving one lucky Luxetips reader, the entire GWP set.  Wowza.  Simply leave a comment on this post expressing your desire to win this GWP set and I will choose a winner randomly via random.org.  A winner will be chosen on Friday, February 11th at midnight. 

Toodles!

Tongue Tied Bag at Lulu's

I have to admit, I am scared of motherhood. Before we get any further, let me say,  I am not pregnant (that's how rumors get started).  But I am slightly concerned with some superficialities such as what type of bag I will have to carry (among other things.) I am always trying to find ways to get out of or prevent style ruts and from what I hear motherhood can create its own set of issues. I am proactive about warding off any potential style rut looming in my horizon. I  plan on being one hot Mama!

 

In search of a  cross body bag to take with me on my trip to Paris, I ran across this bag, which looks like the perfect Mommy bag. It is big, discreet and trendy.  The Tongue Tied has cute gold hardware accents. The best thing about this bag is that it is only 41 bucks!  It's faux leather, but so what, Vegan is where it's at these days. The bottom sides are even reinforced. These manufacturers know that some of you might as well be packing bricks in your bags, they're so heavy.

 

Unfortunately, this one does not come with its own changing flap (or whatever you call it), but it's big enough that you could probably roll one up in there. The purse has two side pockets with magnetic enclosures. Magnets are the best. You don't have to worry about losing anything or fussing with zippers, you just snap and close.  The inside also includes two open pockets and a zippered compartment. The Tongue Tied measures 15" wide by 12" tall with a 17" long handle. Tell me you can't just hear the pitter patter of little feet when you look at it. The Tongue Tied can be purchased from Lulu's for $41.00.

Lancôme “Love in Paris,” GWP at Macy’s

Hello Divas!

Remain thankful and you won't have time to be envious.  I thank God everyday for my blessings. It keeps me grounded.

All I have to say about Lancôme's new GWP is "Oooh La La!"  Divas this is the ultimate GWP.  It is  offered exclusively at Macy's and will launch on February 21st, President's Day.  Simply spend $32.50 at the Lancôme counter and receive this gorgeous bag filled with $103 worth of Lancôme products.  Some of the items you will receive are best sellers such as Génifique Youth Activating Concentrate, Rénergie Lift Volumetry and of course the best Mascara of all time, Defencils. 

In addition, if you spend only $28 dollars more you will also receive either a Color Design Lipcolor trio, Nutrix Royal or a three-piece Makeup Artist Brush Set. 


This GWP is simply beyond amazing!  And guess what?  The gracious people at Lancôme are giving one lucky Luxetips reader, the entire GWP set.  Wowza.  Simply leave a comment on this post expressing your desire to win this GWP set and I will choose a winner randomly via random.org.  A winner will be chosen on Monday, February 7 at midnight. 


Toodles!

Ripple of Excitement Dress at Modcloth

I have made every effort to keep from getting "caught up." You know what I mean by "caught up?" I mean, getting myself into the sticking situation that is shopaholism.  I guess if I were really making my best efforts, I would not bother going to online sites on a daily basis and making weekly stops to TJMaxx.   I just have to have a peek. You know what they say, "Curiosity killed the cat."  I have also heard "Satisfaction brought him back," and this little kitty has died and just about gone to heaven over the Ripple of Excitement dress. I look at Modcloth every day in order to see what is new. The site is updated several times throughout the day.  Recently, I found myself glimpsing at the Ripple of Excitement Dress, a gorgeous nude color, short-sleeved dress.  The sleeves are made of diaphanous layers of organza. The  dress is fully lined and has a side zipper. An organza sash is found at the waist and there is sexy ruching along the sides of the polyester knit. Moderately priced at $134.00, the Ripple of Excitement can be found at Modcloth.


Until next time,


Chamele

Smashbox Photo Finish Targted Pore & Line Primer: Believe the Hype!

Hello Divas!

Life is so beautiful. Why waste it with negative energy and feelings.  Always channel the negative into the positive.

About 3 months ago, I was given the opportunity to try Smashbox's Photo Finish Targeted Pore & Line Primer.  I have tried other primers that I absoluely love like Laura Geller's Spackle.  Love it!

Smashbox's Photo Finish Targeted Pore and Line Primer creates a truly perfect complexion.  Divas, I promise this primer is magical.  After applying the primer, it truly fills every line and imperfection and creates a smooth and flawless canvas for foundation application.  It is very thick and does not go on as smoothly as other primers I have used, but the results are stunning.  The primer is a bit dry and not as smooth as other primers.  But this particular primer has oil or shine absorbing qualities and I am sure the dry texture helps to reduce oil and shine.  In addition, a little goes a long way.  I only use a fingertip full and spread it evenly on my face.  I wait about 5 minutes and then I apply the rest of my make-up. It is truly fabulous!

Smashbox Cosmetics is known for its primer.  Smashbox primer has repeatedly been voted the #1 primer in the world!  So you know it has to be good!  Smashbox Photo Finish Targeted Pore & Line Primer is available exclusively at Sephora and can be purchased online here.  It retails for $32.

Toodles!

Disclaimer:  This product was provided complimentary for review.  However, my opinion and experience with the product is 100% mine and true.

Freehand Tartan Belt at Anthropologie

This belt is so right for a number of reasons. For starters, it's plaid. Despite what people may say, plaid never goes out of style. It may sneak in hipster trends with big and bold flashes, but classic tartan absolutely never goes out of style. Take Burberry for example, have you ever heard anyone say that Burberry scarves are out of style? No, and neither have I.

The Freehand Tartan Belt is more than just plaid. It is a funky and sexy way to cinch your waist. Not too trendy because the muted tones are perfect for a number of outfits and for the promising spring weather. If it so happens to find its way in to my closet, you'd better believe it will stay there for some time amongst some crisp white blouses, khaki ankle pants and white linen shirtdresses. The Freehand Tartan Belt can be purchased from Anthropologie for $58.00.

Until next time,

Chamele

Hot Drugstore Find of the Week: Covergirl Smoky Shadow Blast

Hello Divas!

Are you having an awesome week?  I pray that you are!

When I attended Blogalicious 2010, the beautiful ladies of Style Mom and Afrobella hosted a swanky party and all attendees received gift bag full of beauty goodies.  One of the items in my gift bag was this Covergirl Smoky Shadow Blast.  I thought the colors were pretty cool, but did not really use it until December of last year.

I love this eye duo.  It comes in two bold shades and it is specifically designed to create a bold smokey eye.  One end of the pencil has a rounded tip and the other end has a tapered tip.  Step 1 includes using the rounded tip from lash line to brow bone and using the color on the lower lash line as well.  Step 2 includes using the tapered more subdued color in the crease of your upper lid and your lash line.  Blend both colors together and Presto!,  you have the perfect smokey eye.

I have used the the SmokyShadowBlast to create a smokey eye and I have used them separately as an eyeliner or as a sweep of color on my eye lid.  The color are so bold and beautiful, just a little gives my face a small pop of color that is sexy while also being understated.  The best thing about Covergirl's SmokyShadowBlast is the pencil's texture.  It is creamy dreamy!  Seriously it glides on so smooth, it just caresses your eye.  I am a sucker for soft and smooth eye pencils.

Covergirl's SmokyShadowBlast come in six beautiful color combinations and it retails for $7.99  You can purchase it at any CVS or Ulta.   In addition, this product was a CEW Beauty Award 2010 Winner!  It is the best!

Toodles!

The Naked Zebra Dress at Sage Clothing

I tried again this year and failed miserably. Last year, I challenged myself to refrain from shopping for 365 days. I lasted 3 days. This year I lasted 14 days. Go me!  (That is a real accomplishment whether you think so or not.) Being snowed in for almost a week did not help my situation. What's a girl to do if she is snowed in for five days. The first day of the blizzard, I checked my email and what did I find.  The lovelies at Sage Clothing decided spread a little warmth by offering a 25 percent discount with the code "Snowday."

 

You thought I used the code, didn't you?  I  thought about it, but did not. I did take a look at the site just in case I wanted to utilize my good fortune. I checked the "New Arrivals," and of course I found something just in time for Valentine's Day.

The Naked Zebra dress is the perfect shade of red with the most forgiving ruching in all the right places. The dress hem is accented with lace and it comes in small medium and large, so the waist tie is perfect for enhancing the natural waist. The dress is polyester and dry clean only. TheNaked Zebra dress sells for $79 at Sage Clothing. That 25 percent discount would have been perfect.

Until next time,

Chamele

Chanel Parfum Fragrance Wardrobe

Hello Divas!

Live life to the fullest and be thankful for every precious moment.

I have a blessed life and pretty amazing friends.  Over the Holiday break, a good friend of mine gifted me a mini Chanel Parfum Fragrance Wardrobe and I was beyond estatic.  If you have been reading this blog, you know that I love Chanel Parfums.  Coco Mademoiselle is my signature scent and I do love the classic scent of Chanel No. 5.  It never goes out of style.  This set includes Chanel classics such as:

Chanel No. 5

Coco Mademoiselle

Allure

Chanel No. 19

Coco

Of course, No. 5 and Mademoiselle are no brainers for me.  I had never smelled Coco or No. 19 but I heard Coco was another signature Chanel scent that one must own.  I had previously tried Allure before and it is a lighter flirtier scent than the rest of the parfums in the set.  My new love is Coco.  It is intense but has a very subtle sexy lingering scent.  I am definitely going to rock Coco for a minute.  I did not like No. 19.  It is too strong and masculine for me.

I have never owned pure Parfum before, so this was a real treat.  What I did learn quickly is pure Parfum is very potent.  If you use more than a few drops, you will drown yourself and other people with the scent.  I put on one too many drops of Chanel No. 5 and I thought I was going to throw up.  Two maybe three drops is more than enough!

Because of the pure potency of the parfums, this set will last me a very long time.  Like I said two maybe  three drops is enough.  The miniature bottles come with stoppers and all you have to do is dab the stopper behind your ears and on your pulse points and you are done. Love it!

Each miniature bottle contains .12 ounces of parfum and the set retails for $110.00.  Considering the longevity of the scents and the variety this is a true steal!  It is available at Nordstroms.

Toodles!