NYFW Beauty Best: essie for Mathieu Mirano

Designer Mathieu Mirano is new to me, though I must admit that I'm digging the vibe he put on the runway this season, with sharp leather styles, fur and glittering dresses complemented by Christian Louboutin shoes (more here). As part of the beauty look, Miss Pop for essie created an edgy split nail of black and red using Licorice and allegedly, Bordeaux, though it's looking a bit brighter than Bordeaux in my experience. I digress. For me, this mani is best expressed as modernity meets the circus, and I like it - what say you?

NYFW Beauty Best: essie for Opening Ceremony

I'm remaining pretty immune at the moment to nail art seen on the runways this season. One of the ONLY exceptions to date are the sleek negative space manicures created by nail artist Naomi Yasuda for essie backstage at the Opening Ceremony Fall/Winter ’14 show this weekend. All told, there were three asymmetrical, diagonal designs that played well in rich green, blue and gray tones. Chic and architectural - I like!

4 Insanely Festive Nail Lacquers for Holiday

I tend to like wildly disparate things, and that holds particularly true when it comes to manicures. All fall, I've been loving a classic red or wine creme - no shimmer, please, I'd rather die - but now that we're in full steam holiday mode, it's ALL about a festive glitter.

Below, four of the best - appropriate for all holiday celebrations, including Christmas and New Year's Eve:

• essie Leading Lady, a perfectly non-gritty, festive red, $8.50
• JinSoon Gala (part of the Holiday Topping Gift Set), rose gold perfection - try layering these as topcoats, $48
• Nails Inc. Piccadilly Arcade, a game-changing emerald, $5 (currently on sale)
• Deborah Lippmann Glitter and Be Gay, (let's just say Liberace would approve), $19

Stocking Up: Stocking Stuffers from Kohl's Beauty

Though we're still early in December, I'm pleased, nay THRILLED to share that I'm already very close to wrapping up my holiday shopping entirely. Last on my last, but definitely not least, are stocking stuffers - a favorite of mine to shop for, thanks to the many fond memories I have of digging into my stocking first thing every Christmas morning as a child. Below, a few faves I picked up during a recent visit to the Kohl's Beauty Department:

• As the temps continue to drop, hand cream moves from the "nice to have" list to "essentials." I'm loving this gift set of four be Delectable Hand Creams (set of 4, $14)  because you can keep one for yourself and parse out the other three. Each 2.0-oz tube is perfectly portable, and chock full of hydrating shea butter. As a bonus, these babies smell positively EDIBLE (spoiler, they're not!) - Lemon & Cream is my favorite. 
• Sweet treats are clearly a theme for me, but I'm going to run with it ('tis the season!) Stocking perfect is this adorable set of five Macaron Bath Fizzers from Simple Pleasures ($12).  The holidays can be hectic, after all, and a hot bath will be the perfect way to unwind from seasonal stresses.
• Nail art junkies on your list will dig essie's Sleek Stick Nail Stickers ($10.25 each). Available in a myriad of patterns, these are virtually mistake proof, even for uncoordinated types like me. Each package includes everything you need - 18 stickers in varying sizes, a nail file and cuticle stick - for salon-perfect tips.
• A little known fact about me? I harbor an unabashed affection for…slipper socks! I'd love to find a fuzzy pair from Earth Therapeutics (Set of 2, $12), infused with aloe, tucked inside my stocking this year (now you know!) 

Shop these stocking stuffers and more within the newly revamped Beauty Departments at more than 250 Kohl's stores nationwide and Kohls.com!

While all opinions expressed are my own, this post was produced in partnership with SheKnows Experts Among Us and Kohl's.

On My Radar: Holiday Party Beauty

With snowflakes falling this week in New York, it’s clear that the holiday season is almost upon us –woot! I loooove the holidays for approximately a million reasons, but most of all, I love holiday food, holiday décor and of course, festive celebrations – of which there will be many on the docket. While I look forward to celebrating the season, prepping for holiday parties can definitely add some fashion and beauty stress, to say the least.

SO, to get ahead of the curve (or more aptly, party season), I thought I’d share a few simple tips to elevate your look from everyday to holiday.

Go for the gold: A gilded manicure (to try: essie Good as Gold) or shimmering liner like this one from budget-friendly Jane Cosmetics is an easy way to add holiday sparkle without being overtly, hit ‘em over the head obvious. Subtlety…it’s a beautiful thing!

Embrace the classics: A glamorous red lip – classic for a reason - is an easy way to add panache (a word long due for a resurgence, yes?) when you’re hopping from the office to holiday cocktails in the blink of an eye. Try a lip gloss stick for ease of application on the go – I dig Dare Devil from Pur Minerals. 

Get dramatic: Try elevating just an element or two of your daily beauty ritual to feel party-ready. For me, that often means a smokier eye and a headier fragrance like Michael Kors Rose Gold Eau de Parfum, which I keep tucked in my desk drawer for spontaneous evening occasions.

How do you prep for holiday party season? Tell all in the comments below, and shop the goodness of Kohl’s newly revamped Beauty Department at over 250 Kohl’s stores nationwide or online, here.

While all opinions expressed are my own, this post was produced in partnership with SheKnows Experts Among Us and Kohl’s Beauty.

1, 2, 3, Pretty: LORAC’s Little Black Palette

I'm on a quest these days to simplify. I want fewer things, and better things, and ideally, things that serve more than one purpose. Take, for example, LORAC's Little Black Palette, available at Kohl's newly revamped Beauty Department in over 250 stores nationwide (along with brands like Cargo, The Balm, essie and so many more...but I digress). This chic, well, little black palette, includes four flawless, mineral infused baked eye shadows and a mini Behind the Scenes Eye Primer designed to set the stage for pretty - and pretty that lasts.



As far as I’m concerned, this palette leaves little to be desired. With a soft golden beige, copper, rich bronze and chocolate brown shadows included, I can use it to create a simple, office-appropriate eye, a flirty take or a deeper, sexier look for pending holiday occasions. What I like most about LORAC’s Little Black Palette is, quite simply, the versatility. To take your look easily from day to night:

• Incorporate lower lash mascara and eye liner - upper and lower lash line for a more finished look (you can even use the dark brown shadow included as a liner using a tapered eye liner brush)
• Try applying any of the shadows wet for a more dramatic, intense look
• Using a larger blush brush, apply the lightest, champagne shadow as an all over highlighter - it leaves a diffused glow that’s perfect for evening

You can pick up LORAC’s Little Black Palette for $34 at Kohl’s in over 250 stores nationwide, or shop the LORAC collection online here!

While all opinions expressed are my own, this post was produced in partnership with She Knows Experts Among Us and Kohl’s Beauty.

Fall Beauty: A Transition

The hubbub of the Spring ’14 shows has finally settled down here in New York, so it’s time to focus on the present, to LIVE in the proverbial MOMENT, if you will, peeps. As a longtime downtowner (longtime, at least, in spirit), I’ve got my fall shopping list in order and it’s full of easy, polished dresses with some edge and leather, leather, leather (if you’re so inclined, click here). With fashion assigned, it’s time to hone in on a fall beauty transition as well – I’m thinking a longer, deeper, muted nail, fuller, more dimensional hair and a navy liner and fresh mascara to make my green yes pop. Here are a few faves:

• Black mascara is an essential, regardless of season. My current favorite is easy to find and delivers major volume, with the added bonus of dual sided brush designed to comb out clumps (I can’t be the only guilty party?), Cover Girl Clump Crusher Mascara, $8.99
• After a summer of bright pop nails and even wilder experiments with nail art, I’m ready for a more muted, classically sexy manicure. A go-to red, Cover Girl Outlast Stay Brilliant Glosstinis Nail Polish in Sangria 515 is pure, classic, crimson magic - and it lasts for days.
• Pantene’s new Expert Collection was created in conjunction with Olay’s anti-aging experts, and is designed to deliver fuller, thicker and thereby more GLORIOUS hair. Regardless of the shampoo and conditioner I use each morning, I’ve been incorporating the Thickening Treatment daily as a scalp treat pre-styling. If aging is a concern of yours – yes, hair ages, and it’s devastating! – snag a bottle for just $18.99.

While all opinions expressed are my own, this post was produced in collaboration with P&G Beauty and Style Coalition.

Holographic Magic: Proenza Schouler vs. essie

I've been feeling holographic for days now, if it's possible to feel holographic, that is. The cause of my lament? The Proenza Schouler PS11 mini holographic bag.

An iteration of last season's bolder silver holographic, this more muted version has beckoned me since I spotted it in Intermix last weekend. As I've already begun to bleed money for fall (see recent acquisitions: the J Brand Nicola Leather Moto Pant and the Isabel Marant Dicker bootie in cognac leather), I'm exercising some self-restraint. Helping the cause is essie's new For the Twill of It Nail Polish.

Part of a six lacquer seasonal collection, this gloriously undefinable holographic reads anywhere from charcoal to olive, with flashes of green and pink. While I've yet to dress my own fingers in it, it's hot on my list as soon as the weather cools down a bit.

Proenza Schouler PS11 mini holographic bag, $1,990
essie For the Twill of It Nail Polish, $8

OOTD: The Outtakes Edition

Let's get real for a hot minute. While I derive mucho real-life inspiration from some of my fave personal style bloggers, the blogosphere as a whole is awash with girls who take themselves far, far too seriously. I, on the other hand, don't have time for that these days. Did I ever? I'm not sure. That's, as I would say, a question for the ages. I digress.

When the gals in my office get together to take outfit snaps (Felicia Sullivan, Court and Hudson, Miss Whoever You Are, Chic Thrills...I'm looking at you), things are a little different. For one, and probably most notably, laughs ABOUND. In addition to capturing a great shot that showcases my friend's great style, I consider it among my key objectives (jargon alert) to make the subject of the photo (usually Felicia) laugh genuinely, and as hard as she can. I'm pretty confident that she feels the same...after all, I'm not a model (none of us are), so a great smile can really make or break a photo.

Of course, when you don't take yourself TOO seriously, you've got to weed through a lot of outtakes to find a great snap that captures a look head to toe. I gave up on yesterday's OOTD, so above you see one of my fave outtakes.

Here's what I've got on:

• Vince Split Neck Silk Blouse in Blush
• Club Monaco Silver Mesh Scarf
• Jimmy Choo for H&M multi-chain bracelet (gift)
• 7 for all Mankind Skinny Second Skin Legging in Rinsed Indigo (Jesus H. Christ, that is a mouthful)
• Barney's New York Knee High Boot (no longer available)
• Nails: essie Going Incognito

Beauty Black Book: Polished Beauty Bar

Whether it's because I'm lazy (seems likely) or simply prefer the results of pro manicures and pedicures (let's run with that), I'm committed to my Sunday salon ritual. And while there are nail salons on every single, solitary corner in New York (or so it seems), few are as immaculate and welcoming as I'd like.

Thankfully, Polished Beauty Bar is the exception to this rule. Tucked away on a quiet Upper West Side block, and owned by the totally delightful and MAJOR Susan Nam (manicurist to celebrities like Charlize Theron and Reese Witherspoon), this comfortable, modern salon is among my fave hidden gems for a speedy and efficient beautifying.

Polished is stocked with an amazing assortment of essie and Zoya polishes, and the manicures and pedicures are pampering, but cognizant of the fact that you have a life to lead, people to see, and things to do. Simply put, you'll be in and out in a flash, and with a perfect 20.

Visit Polished Beauty Bar at 250 W 78th Street or call 212.933.1830 for an appointment.

Object of My Obsession: Fall Nail Lacquers

Truth be told, I feel naked with a manicure. And I'm all about leaving my manicures in the *ahem* hands of trained PROFESSIONALS - because, when I do my own, I obsess over every minor flaw. But that doesn't mean that I'm at the mercy of my local salon when it comes to available nail lacquers. Instead, I have a difficult-to-rival collection of colors, appropriate for ANY season, occasion or mood.

My fave colors for Fall 2010? Clockwise from top left:

Lippman Collection's Bad Romance was created as an homage to you-know-who. This edgy hue has a blackened base with bold fuschia glitter and sequins of various sizes. It's nothing short of a party in a bottle.

NARS's newly rereleased Mash is a divine metallic golden green. Inspired by the iconic '70's television show, it's an appropriately fall color with a little bit of flash.

Yet another glitter, you may be thinking? Yeah, I know, I know. But Butter London Henley Regatta is a GORGEOUS blue green that just dared me to resist it. I failed. Perhaps you are a stronger woman than I?

This is the second autumn in a row that I'm LOVING murky neutrals for my nails. Even so, Chanel Khaki Brun was a surprise. This olive-toned brown looks a bit like baby poop in the bottle (I didn't want to say it...but you were thinking it anyway) yet insanely chic on a short oval nail (coincidentally, my preferred shape!)

Last but never, NEVER least, is the perfect fall red. I was introduced to essie Russian Roulette this week during a Bliss Spa manicure, and frankly I may never look back. It's a flawless red - relatively neutral (it doesn't lean too far orange or too far blue) and bright like a tomato. Regardless of the trendy colors, I'll always come back to a short red nail and this may just be my favorite red of all.

What nail colors are you loving this season? Do tell all in the comments!

Best of 2009: Beauty

Each year, I test a near-unimaginable volume of beauty products, new releases, niche brands and cult favorites. But the truth remains that very few products actually make it into my daily rotation. My taste is discerning - not only must a product be effective (duh!) but it should also be an experience to use. Here are my picks for the very BEST products of 2009.

Frederic Fekkai Sensuelle Shampoo & Conditioner - Scented with orange blossom and jasmine, this shampoo and conditioner leave hair incredibly soft and smelling delicious for hours.

Lipstick Queen Chinatown Glossy Pencils - These chunky lip pencils make me want to paint by numbers. They deliver the perfect dose of glossy color and look oh-so-cool when you pull them out of your purse.

Maybelline Superstay Concealer - It's rare that I endorse an inexpensive foundation or concealer, but this one gets the job done. If you can find a match (there are only five available shades), it covers a myriad of skin sins and lasts all day.

essie Mink Muffs - This taupe-y gray nail lacquer has a hint of purple to it; it's at once edgy and chic.

And last but not least, AmorePacific's Treatment Enzyme Peel is the most gentle exfoliator imaginable. Try it on your face or body; the bottle will last you a lifetime (okay, or at least a year with regular use.)

What were the BEST products you tried in 2009? Leave a comment and share!

FTC Disclosure: Samples received for review.

Coming Soon: essie Naturally Clean

Astoria's own nail legend essie is introducing a new line of products this month, perfect for at home hand and nail care. Naturally Clean is said to boast "a light, fresh botanical scent that creates an aromatherapeutic spa experience."  Here's what you can expect to see in the collection:

• Purifying Hand Wash with Nourishing Botanicals (8 fl. oz.): This mild, nourishing cleanser is formulated to safely cleanse hands and nails, rinsing away dirt and bacteria. The formula contains coconut oil and aloe vera to moisturize, along with vitamins A and E for antioxidant protection. ($14)
• 100% Natural Purifying Hand Treatment with Nourishing Botanicals (8 fl. oz.): This 100% natural hydrator is an instant hand sanitizer formulated with soothing aloe and a naturally-derived vegetable glycerin to moisturize skin. Vitamin-enriched rice brand oil provides powerful antioxidant protection.($24)
• Refreshing Nail Cleanser with Nourishing Botanicals (4 fl. oz.): This safe sanitizer prepares the nail plate for polish and is infused with antiseptic eucalyptus oil and aloe vera to hydrate. ($24)
• Vitamin-Enriched Manicure Revitalizer with Nourishing Botanicals (18 count): These tablets are infused with antiseptic eucalyptus oil, making them the perfect energizing soak. AHA fruit acids deliver skin nourishing properties that reveal smoother, younger-looking hands. Vitamin C provides antioxidant benefits. ($24.00)
• Purifying Nail Polish Remover with Moisturizers and Vitamins (16 fl. oz/4 fl. oz.): The professional strength formula removes even the darkest polish color without stripping the nail bed of essential hydration. Perfect for at home use, the remover is infused with natural vitamins and antioxidants, in addition to eucalyptus oil. ($16/16 fl. oz., $6/4 fl. oz.)

Holiday 2008: Stuff Those Stockings!

Gifts of beauty are perfect for holiday stockings and this season, I've rounded up a few of my very favorite picks - even one for the guys!

Kiehl's Lip Balm #1 is a classic - and with good reason. It's newly available in Coconut, Mango and Vanilla but for the holidays, I'd stick with the delightful Pear, Cranberry or Mint. I have one in every pocket.

Trish McEvoy's Portable Beauty Brush Set is a stocking splurge but whether it's for a girlfriend, mom or sister, she'll love you for it!

LUSH Bubble Bars are legendary - at least in my home. The Candy Cane version is sufficiently festive and smells amazing - like super sweet candy mint.

Men will love the Jack Black It's The Balm Lip Balm Trio. These thick emollient balms are perf for winter weather and frills free enough to keep guys happy.

Last but never least, the essie Winter 2008 Minis will get any girl in the holiday spirit - the beautiful jewel toned reds and purples are the ideal accessory to your New Year's Eve look.

To make life easy, you can click through each image in the above spread. Happy Shopping!