Too Faced Smoky Eye Shadow Palettes

Looking for beautiful, blendable eye shadows that go on smoothly and provide that glam look that you desire? Then consider Too Faced Cosmetics. Their new Smoke & Mirrors Collection features the Smoky Eye Palette--perfect for attaining the sexy, mysterious appearance. 

These shadows are perfect for creating that hard-to-achieve smoky eye. Included with each palette are three "secret cards" providing instructions on exactly how to do so. 

I know that whenever I try to achieve this look, I feel like my makeup is just too dark. But, there are ways to avoid that. Here's a smoky eye makeup tip from Hollywood makeup artist and Too Faced founder Jerrod Blandino:

"When wearing a smoky eye, cheeks and lips look their best when a nude pink color is applied."

For your own Smoky Eye Shadow Palette, or any of the items in this collection and others, head over to TooFaced.com or Sephora and pick one up for $32. 

Photo credit: Blue Sky Communications and Sephora

Fall Fashion 2008

I love fall! Even though I've never really experienced the season. We're already a week into autumn, which, for me, evokes thoughts of Halloween and Thanksgiving, scarves and sweaters, and vibrant orange and brown leaves. Unfortunately, my fall has consisted of over 100 degree weather...no joke.

Since I can't really wear the typical autumn attire just yet, I decided to come up with a wardrobe that I would wear, if it were 30 degrees cooler in Southern California.

Sweater and Leggings: Forever 21
Boots and Scarf: Urban Outfitters
Earrings: Guess

I Bought the Wrong Steve Maddens!

So, as you may or may not have read, I recently blogged about a pair of fabulous Steve Madden boots that I adore. After a stressful week, I decided to do some retail therapy and buy them. Only problem is, I bought the wrong style!

I thought it was weird that I couldn't get the boots to go up to my knees (they scrunch up mid-calf), but the saleswoman assured me that they weren't supposed to. Well we were both right. The boots I bought weren't supposed to go to my knees, but the boots I want are. 

They look really similar. The style that I wanted, Bonanza, are on the left. The style I bought, Tianna, are on the right.  

Although the Tianna boots look almost identical to the Bonanza ones, they are different. It's weird because the boots on the right look taller, but they slouch really low.

While both pairs are cute, I think I'm going to return the ones I bought and 

buy the Bonanzas.

I want to hear what you think though. Do you prefer knee-high boots, or the calf style?

Photo credits: Steve Madden and Amazon.com

"Womanizer" by Britney Spears

Yesterday Britney Spears made a radio comeback in a big way. Her single "Womanizer" was all over the airwaves. On a local LA station, KIIS FM (home to Ryan Seacrest), I heard the song three times in one hour, two of which were within 15 minutes apart. Also aired, Ryan's interview with Lynne Spears which you can listen to online.

My opinion of Spears has changed dramatically over the years. I was never a fan of her music. I thought it was OK, but wouldn't buy a CD. Now, after the infamous Britney breakdown, I really like her. Anyone who has gone through everything she has, and still have the courage to hold her head up high and keep at it, deserves praise. Although she does have a huge fan base, it still requires guts to be slammed so hard and stand back up. I have great respect for her.

Anyways, back to the new song!

It's a good track, and grows on me every time I hear it. Listen now (warning-if you haven't heard it yet, prepare to get the tune stuck in your head =):

What's your reaction to the newest song from Spears?

iTunes will have the single for sale on Tuesday, October, 7 if you want to purchase it.

Pin-Up Cosmetics Eye Shadows

I'm all about eye shadows. In a matter of minutes, the right shades can light up your entire face. As a makeup lover, I feel it my duty to inform my readers whenever I come across products that I adore. Enter Pin-Up Cosmetics.

This line was created in November 2007 by San Francisco native, April Lacey, a professional makeup artist turned entrepreneur. Being a member of the cosmetics industry, Lacey knows exactly what it takes to please her customers. She has combined her love for the 1940/50s era and black and while films to create something quite magical.

I, personally, am a huge fan of the line's 3-Pan Palette in Frisky! This eye shadow trio (which is also Lacey's favorite because of its versatility) is comprised of three flattering colors; a taupe/lavender hue, a pale mauve, and basic black. Also included is a double-ended applicator equipped with a shadow blender and a liner brush on the other. 

I have never really been able to achieve the whole using eyeshadow as a liner thing...until now. Once the "liner" is applied, it's on. It stays in place for hours and won't come off until it's washed off. And, retailing for $15, this palette is priced just right.

I also love the Mineral Loose Eye Dust in Shiny Gold. It can be worn over eye shadow, or even lightly brushed over the cheeks for a golden glow. The loose eye dusts are sold for $10 and come in a variety of stunning shades.

If you don't have enough time to play up your eyes, take Lacey's tip and pamper your pout. According to this makeup guru, "A great creme gloss looks great on every woman and lip gloss takes no time at all."

Check out the Pin-Up Cosmetics Web site to see a full list of the brand's products!

Photos courtesy of: Pin-Up Cosmetics

Easily Attainable Waves

My hair is straight and I have a difficult time getting it to hold a curl. In fact, I don't even attempt to curl it because it just ends badly. Because I get tired of my stringy strands, and, well because I'm too lazy to wake up early to wash and blow dry my hair, I have come up with an alternative.

After washing my hair, I put it in anywhere from one to five braids. The amount of braids determine how wavy the results are. The pictures here are the result of two braids. I was going for the whole Jennifer Aniston loose locks look.

To add some style to the waves, I simply pull one side of my hair back and secure it with two bobby pins. On the other side, I pin my bangs back. It literally takes two minute

s, and the best part is that it lasts all day long! It actually holds longer than that, but I have towash my hair every other day.

Sorry these pictures aren't too good, I used my Mac to take them. But, you can still get the gist of the style that braiding provides.

Does anybody have any quick styling hair tips? If so, do share please =)

The Art of Scarf Tying

Happy fall everyone! Autumn is y favorite season, particularly because of the clothes.

A few weeks back, I was reading one of my favorite blogs, With Love, and came across a knot tying tutorial post. It was really helpful to me, so I wanted to pass some similar info on to my readers. Here are instructions on some popular ways to tie scarfs, thanks to Texere Silk. 

First, you need to know how to make basic folds. Then you'll be ready to move onto the ties.

Basic Fold 1

Step 1: Take a square shaped scarf.

Step 2: Start rolling the scarf from one side.

Step 3: Bring the side that you are rolling towards the other.

Step 4: Completely roll the scarf 'til the end.

Step 5: It should look like the rolled scarf in the illustration.

Basic Fold 2

Step 1: Take a square shaped scarf.

Step 2: Fold the scarf the way it is shown here.

Step 3: Fold the other side as well so that we get the shape shown.

Step 4: Pull oblong scarf through belt loops.

Step 5: Secure the side tightly.

Step 6: The final shape should look like this.

Now it's on to the actual tying of the scarves.

European Loop

Step 1: Fold the scarf according to the basic fold 2 and then fold it again to fold a sort of hoop.

Step 2: Let the scarf dangle around your neck with the hoop on one side of the shoulder.

Step 3: Take the other end (A) and bring it towards the hoop.

Step 4: Let A pass through the hoop to make a European loop.

Step 5: Tighten the loop to get the complete effect.

Twist Around Ascot

Step 1: Fold the scarf according to the basic fold 1 and let it hang around your neck equally on each side.

Step 2: Bring one side (A) towards the other side (B).

Step 3: Let A pass from under B.

Step 4: Bring A towards the front.

Step 5: Let A pass through B again to form a knot.

Step 6: Adjust both the sides facing forward as shown in the illustration.

Fake Knot

Step 1: Folds the scarf according to basic fold 1 and let it drop down your neck equally on each side.

Step 2: Make a knot on one side (A).

Step 3: Bring the other side (B) towards A.

Step 4: Let B pass through A to form a knot.

Step 5: Tighten the knot to get a beautiful fake knot.

Hope these tips help! I can't wait for colder weather (not that I actually experience that in Southern California).

Photos courtesy of: Texere Silk

International Talk Like a Pirate Day

Happy International Talk Like a Pirate Day everyone! Arrrr! Every year on September 19 scallywags celebrate by speaking pirate slang. So, if you happen to get hit on today by a wannabe pirate, here are the top 10 pickup lines they may use:

10 . Avast, me proud beauty! Wanna know why my Roger is so Jolly?
9. Have ya ever met a man with a real yardarm?
8. Come on up and see me urchins.
7. Yes, that is a hornpipe in my pocket and I am happy to see you.
6. I'd love to drop anchor in your lagoon.
5. Pardon me, but would ya mind if fired me cannon through your porthole?
4. How'd you like to scrape the barnacles off of me rudder?
3. Ya know, darlin’, I’m 97 percent chum free.
2. Well blow me down?
And the number one pickup line for use on International Talk Like a Pirate Day is …
1. Prepare to be boarded.

Have fun--but remember, no pillaging!

Photo courtesy of: TalkLikeAPirate.com

Tiffany & Co. Horseshoe Charm

Isn't this Tiffany & Co. horseshoe charm adorable? It's new for fall, and gorgeous. I am a bit superstitious, so anything related to good luck instantly catches my eye. Here's a little fact for you: An upside down horseshoe is nothing special. It has to be facing up to catch the good luck!

Anyways, this charm is priced at $125. I want it! But I want the matching bracelet even more.  You can buy the horseshoe alone, or purchase the bracelet for a hefty $575.  It's pretty steep, for my budget, but the charm looks adorable on the wrist.

What do you think? Worth the spend? Or better off bought as a charm and put on a less expensive bracelet, other than a Tiffany brand?

Photo courtesy of: Tiffany & Co.

JcPenny is in Style

I never shopped at JcPenny until they opened a singular store (not attached to a mall) by my house. Ever since that, I've been hooked. They actually have some pretty cute clothes; perfect for work. 

I was browsing the site and came across this entire outfit in less than 10 minutes:

a.n.a. Trapeze Cowlneck Sweater: $24.99

a.n.a Plaid Flyaway Jacket: $39.99

Mixit Mulit-row Gray Bead Necklace: $12.60

Worthington 'Emily' Ruched Stretch Boot: $49.99

Quilted Patent Tote: $27.99

Five staples pieces for about $150, not too bad in my opinion! I'd certainly buy any of these pieces; in fact, I think I'll make a JCP stop this week. 

Do you shop at JcPenny? If not, are you surprised with their fashionable items?

P.S. If the clothes don't draw you in, the makeup will. Can you say Sephora? Yup, my local store boasts a cosmetics section as well.

Photos courtesy of: JcPenny

The Black Lip...Guess it's Better Than a Black Eye!

OK, all joking aside, what is up with this black lipstick trend? I wasn't going to blog about it because I didn't really think that it'd get very far. Most runway trends never translate to real life, but dark lips are all the rage right now.

I don't know if it's so popular because it's just plain out there, but brands are actually getting rave reviews on this trend. In fact, Lancome's version, Fever Gloss in Phia Black, already has a waiting list of customers at Bloomingdale's. Only 500 sets of this shade will be sold, retailing at $48.

If you really want some black lip gloss now, have no fear. MAC is selling Lipmix in black for a mere $11.50.

So what is your take? Valid beauty trend? Or, over-hyped look?

I actually want to hear that someone is going to purchase this shade of lipstick. While it's not for me, I have to admit that anyone who wears it has some courage, and a love for fashion. 

Photo courtesy of MAC

NY Fashion Week Spring 2009: Twinkle by Wenlan

As I was browsing through the photos from the 2009 Spring NY Fashion Week, I came across some fabulous designs. One particular show that blew me away was Twinkle by Wenlan.  I had never heard of this designer, but her pieces spoke volumes to me. Although simple, her clothes are sophisticated. Here are a few of my favorite looks from her Monday Show at Bryant Park:

I like the fact that this show was about clothes more than a dramatic presentation. There are so many designers that create artistic pieces that look spectacular coming down the runway and I get it, we all do. However; over-the-top creations aren't always practical. I like substance. I like being able to see an outfit and wanting to have it.

Anyways, I was curious to learn more about this designer so I did what any blogger would do and I Googled her. This lady is crazy-amazing! Not only does she have the aforementioned collection, Wenlan also boasts a ready to wear line, Twinkle Living, and Twinkle Jewelry.

To learn all that Wenlan has to offer, check out her site. Really, you should do it.

Photos courtesy of: Getty Images 

Blake Lively's Look for Less

Blake Lively has an adorable look; she's always spotted in the hottest clothes. Unfortunately, not all of us regular ladies can afford her extravagant styles that this Gossip Girl sports. But luckily, we can imitate them and spend significantly less. 

Here is an example of a alternative outfit, all pieces from AZJeans and retailing for only $51.99:

Aren't those jeans adorable? 

To check out more styles from the brand, head over to AZJeans or visit JCPenny.

Photo courtesy of: 360i

AG Hair Cosmetics Giveaway!

As a beauty editor, I have tested out many products. Sometimes the result is a bad breakout, other times I get lucky and find a real gem. When I do find a lipgloss, sunscreen, or hair shampoo that I enjoy, I can think of nothing better then to praise that item.

Enter cruelty free, 100% satisfaction guaranteed AG Hair Cosmetics. I cannot stress the fact that their products have greatly enhanced the state of my hair. As a chronic bleacher, my locks aren't always as luscious as I'd like them to be. However, since I started using the brand's Colour Savour Shampoo and Conditioner, my strands have been extremely soft, I don't deal with excruciating tangles, I have great body, and my hair just looks good. Those are three amazing benefits that usually don't result from a single shampoo and conditioner duo.

Far too many times I've been suckered into the hair product pitch from my hairdressers. Often, they insist that their clients buy ridiculously priced hair serums, but do they really ever provide all that they promise? Usually not.

Great news! AG (a Canadian based company) is now available in salons throughout the U.S. So, if your hairdresser suggests that you purchase these items, take their advice, they're right this time. And also exciting, the products won't set you back a week's worth of lunch because they're priced just right.

And for all of your with curly hair, this month AG launches re:coil, a line including curl activating shampoo and conditioner, as well as a curl activator.

Now that I have had the pleasure of using AG products, I can sincerely say that I am a lifetime customer. And I want you, my readers, to be users as well.

I can think of nothing better than to reward one gossiper with the line's wonderful hair care products.

For Join the Gossip's first reader giveaway, AG Hair Cosmetics has been generous enough to provide a basket full of their sensational products with a retail value of more than $225! I am so excited to offer this amazing contest. I encourage you all to enter, and to tell your friends as well =)

To qualify for this prize, please leave a comment including your e-mail so that I can contact you if you win. And if you encourage your friends to enter as well, have them leave your name in their comment (first and last) saying that you sent them, and you'll receive an extra entry!

One winner will randomly be selected on Wednesday, October 1. Good luck!

* Please note: the winner's address and phone number will be given to AG for shipping purposes*

Photos courtesy of: AG Hair Cosmetics and Reflexion Clinics

Rihanna's Outfit at the VMAs--Not a Good Choice

"Disturbia" is exactly what I was feeling when I saw Rihanna's outfit at the VMAs. The girl is extremely beautiful, and usually has a great sense of style; nonetheless she isn't always on the fashion mark--take for example tonight. The dress she wore for her performance was not the best choice. 

No disrespect to her at all, but the outfit was simply unflattering. Her thighs looked large, even though she is in great shape and has a figure that most women would die for, me included! My mom even made the comment, "Poor girl. Didn't she have someone tell her that that outfit makes her legs look huge." 

And as for Rihanna's hair, all i can say is W-O-W. The mullet is never cool, ever.

Britney; however, looked fabulous. She's doing better than ever, working out hard...and it shows. She didn't open the show with a performance, but I really thought she was going to. It would have been awesome if she would have redeemed herself from last year's performance.

Side note: Russell Brand 's rant on the presidency was out of hand. Regardless of political stance, I always have a hard time when  people criticize the president. We as a people elect our officials but are always quick to criticize them as well. We need to be more thankful and appreciative that we have the rights that we do. With that I understand that freedom of speech is a big privilege, but sometimes respect is appropriate. 

Anyways, Brand is from the UK, so he really has no right to give his opinion on who he wants to be elected president, or to say derogatory things toward our current commander-in-chief. In my opinion, if a person from a foreign country makes a jab at our president (Republican or Democrat), I take that as a personal insult against the U.S. And to say that if Obama isn't elected that we as a nation are racist? Out if control. It's not about race, it's about ability. Whoever is best-suited to run our country should win. Not who is what color, religion, etc.

Sorry, I never get involved with politics--too touchy of a subject for many. I was just appalled at Brand's comments. In fact, I turned the show off before he was even done with his comments. I may watch a rerun at a later time though so I can see the show, minus his opening. I have already read that Christina's performance was amazing...

Photos courtesy of: MTV.com 

Preppy Sweaters Make a Woman

I have something i need to tell you, my readers. I am addicted...to argyle. Pair it up with a strand of pearls and some black and white Mary Janes by Dr. Martins and I am a happy preppy gal.

Because I know I can't live solely on my obsession for sweaters covered with diamond-shaped designs, I have found some other studious-looking items, great for fall (yeah I still dress studiously even though I graduated from college two years ago). OK, I did still throw in at least one argyle piece =)

All of the following items are from Forever 21 and retail for less than $25:

H81 Academy Cardigan $22.90

Tri Color Diamond Check Sweater $22.80

Layered LS Ruffled Sweater Top $22.80

Cassidy 3Q Sweater Cardigan $24.90

Duo Tone Sweater Cardigan $19.80

Photos courtesy of: Forever 21

Charming Cannage Large Shopper in Plum by Dior

I love purses, but usually those that are in the inexpensive category. My biggest spend was on a L.A.M.B. Signature Rasta Commodore Hobo a few months back. But a girl can dream of spending the big bucks on a bag, right?

Enter the Charming Cannage Large Shopper by Dior. This handbag retails for $1,075 and comes in various shades, and the plum hue is breathtaking. I don't know if I have ever had these feelings for a purse--I literally feel like my life may end if I don't buy it. What's wrong with me you ask? Not a damn thing because this bag is stunning!

I can just imaging myself strutting down the street with this Dior bombshell, and my Forever 21 outfit. Haha, I guess that my lifestyle isn't really posh enough for this high-end handbag.

I'm just putting it out there right now though, if i win big bucks at a casino again (last month I won $1,000 on a nickel machine at an Indian casino by my home), I am going to purchase this baby!

Photo credit: eLuxury

Stand Up to Cancer

Today we are urged to "Stand Up to Cancer." Almost everyone knows somebody who has, or has been affected by, cancer. Now is the time to raise awareness and funds to devise cures for these illnesses.

Tune into CBS, NBC, or ABC at 8 PM ET/PT tonight. Each of these channels will be airing an hour-long, commercial-free telecast. Some of the many celebrities that will be featured during this broadcast include:

• Jennifer Aniston
• Lance Armstrong
• Christina Applegate
• Halle Berry
• Keanu Reeves

With musical performances by:

• Mariah Carey
• Fergie
• Sheryl Crow
• Miley Cyrus
• Beyonce

What a great lineup! And you can purchase a single entitled "Just Stand Up" on iTunes featuring a collaboration of these ladies, along with some other talented singers.

Donations can be made through several methods, one of which was pointed out by Bionic Beauty. Spell Cosmetics will donate $5 to Stand Up to Cancer on every order over $30. Nothing beats making a purchase that goes to a good cause.

Be sure to view the special. And, if you feel so inclined, get involved =)

Photo credit: Stand Up to Cancer

Mr. Steve Madden, You are a Shoe God!

I love boots--but hate the pain that often accompanies them. In my world, comfort and footwear aren't typically spoken in the same sentence. But today they are. Steve Madden has designed a pair of boots that may provide the easy stride that I desperately desire. 

The Bonanza boots feature a flat bottom, suede material, a 14.5 inch shaft, and a shaft circumference of approximately 14 inches.  And they're awfully adorable! Don't they look like something Captain Hook would wear?

With fall and winter rapidly approaching, these boots should be perfect for chilly weather. And although I have not tried a pair of the Bonanzas on, they look as if they won't cause excruciating discomfort to the tootsies.  

I just discovered these boots today on the Steve Madden Web site, but I am sure they can be purchased anywhere the brand is sold. Choose from several colors including black, brown (pictured), grey, natural, and purple, all retailing for $89. 95.

Photo credit: Steve Madden

Gorgeous, Cheap Earrings at Tilly's

Yup, i am a 25-year-old who loves Tilly's. Whatever, they have adorable clothes. During a recent trip to the establishment, I made a great find. I purchased peacock earrings for a mere $5.99.

They are great because they're small enough that they don't drive me crazy, but are still eye-catching. Below are some other pieces I found online that can be thrown together to compliment the earrings.

FLEURISH Dolman Girls Top- $19.99

BUBBLEGUM Destructed Womens Skinny Jeans (Grey)- $32.99

FULL TILT Unique Womens Wedges (Purple)- $19.99

All together, this outfit totals about $80. Not bad since all of the items can be worn with many different pieces to create different styles.

If you're looking for some great finds, head over to Tilly's.

Photo credits: Tilly's

90210: Drama, Fashion, and Fine-Looking Actors

As I ranted yesterday, I have been waiting for 90210 to air mainly to confirm my suspicions that the show would bomb. However, after watching two hours of the season premiere, I stand corrected.

Not only are the characters equally likable and loathsome, the plot is similarly predictable, yet well-written.

Full of contradictions, it seems to work for me. I was glued to my TV tonight and will tune in next week for the follow-up episode.

Some points of interest: 1) Ethan is kinda hot, 2) Naomi has fabulous clothes--I want her pearl Chanel necklace and matching earrings, and lastly, 3) two fights and two affairs took place in the first two hours!

Does it get better than that? Well, we'll have to keep watching the season to find out.

Did you watch? If so, did you like 90210?

For those who didn't cath the premire on Tuesday, it re-airs tonight! Check your local listings!

Photo courtesy of: DaemonsTV.com

9021-Oh No?!

Beverly Hills 90210 was the "it" series for countless adolescent females back in the 90s. I was only in grade school but my friends and I were glued to the TV each episode. And now

...it's back. But is it in a big way?

With the spinoff (90210) premiering tomorrow, I can't help but think that this show won't be able to compare to the original. Although I will tune in to see what it's all about, I don't know if I'll enjoy the show. Maybe I'm just set in my ways.

Aside from my personal issues, I haven't really heard much about the show. I have, on the other hand, seen the stars of the program. Is it just me, or do the guys look a little old to be in high school?!

So what do you think? Am I just too partial to the original? Maybe I should give the new show a chance before I react so negatively. 

I guess I'll just have to find out. 90210 premieres on the CW tomorrow. Check your local listings. And let me know what you think!

Photos courtesy of: The TV Addict and The CW