Friday, October 31, 2008
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Chanel Kaleidoscope Nail Polish
I was sniffing perfume at Bergdorf's Chanel counter (basically, reminding myself how much the Exclusif line with its family-size bottles of too weak juice annoys me), when the SA noticed my nail polish, Chanel Kaleidoscope. It's quite recognizable, and hard to miss.
Most of the bottle images and swatches you see online look more silvery and on the cool side of things. It's just how it photographs, as I discovered myself. But Kaleidoscope isn't silver, gray or even taupe. The best I can describe it is as a very light metallic khaki with gold undertones.
Metallics can be tricky to apply without showing every brush stroke. Kaleidoscope is a bit better in this regard, especially when you go for a second coat. The result is quite striking and very shiny, almost mirror-like. The trade off is in the drying time, which is longer than most metallic polishes (and causes me to repeatedly mess up). I use two coats of Essie base, which helps tremendously in spreading the wealth. A top coat is necessary for me, otherwise there's serious chipping and peeling after the third day in the areas that hit the keyboard most.
Chanel Kaleidoscope ($20) is a limited edition for fall 2008. It's still available from most Chanel counters, so please check your local department store before you drop $29-$50 on an eBay auction. I got mine from Neiman's.
Images: mine
Most of the bottle images and swatches you see online look more silvery and on the cool side of things. It's just how it photographs, as I discovered myself. But Kaleidoscope isn't silver, gray or even taupe. The best I can describe it is as a very light metallic khaki with gold undertones.
Metallics can be tricky to apply without showing every brush stroke. Kaleidoscope is a bit better in this regard, especially when you go for a second coat. The result is quite striking and very shiny, almost mirror-like. The trade off is in the drying time, which is longer than most metallic polishes (and causes me to repeatedly mess up). I use two coats of Essie base, which helps tremendously in spreading the wealth. A top coat is necessary for me, otherwise there's serious chipping and peeling after the third day in the areas that hit the keyboard most.
Chanel Kaleidoscope ($20) is a limited edition for fall 2008. It's still available from most Chanel counters, so please check your local department store before you drop $29-$50 on an eBay auction. I got mine from Neiman's.
Images: mine
Chanel Kaleidoscope Nail Polish
I was sniffing perfume at Bergdorf's Chanel counter (basically, reminding myself how much the Exclusif line with its family-size bottles of too weak juice annoys me), when the SA noticed my nail polish, Chanel Kaleidoscope. It's quite recognizable, and hard to miss.
Most of the bottle images and swatches you see online look more silvery and on the cool side of things. It's just how it photographs, as I discovered myself. But Kaleidoscope isn't silver, gray or even taupe. The best I can describe it is as a very light metallic khaki with gold undertones.
Metallics can be tricky to apply without showing every brush stroke. Kaleidoscope is a bit better in this regard, especially when you go for a second coat. The result is quite striking and very shiny, almost mirror-like. The trade off is in the drying time, which is longer than most metallic polishes (and causes me to repeatedly mess up). I use two coats of Essie base, which helps tremendously in spreading the wealth. A top coat is necessary for me, otherwise there's serious chipping and peeling after the third day in the areas that hit the keyboard most.
Chanel Kaleidoscope ($20) is a limited edition for fall 2008. It's still available from most Chanel counters, so please check your local department store before you drop $29-$50 on an eBay auction. I got mine from Neiman's.
Images: mine
Most of the bottle images and swatches you see online look more silvery and on the cool side of things. It's just how it photographs, as I discovered myself. But Kaleidoscope isn't silver, gray or even taupe. The best I can describe it is as a very light metallic khaki with gold undertones.
Metallics can be tricky to apply without showing every brush stroke. Kaleidoscope is a bit better in this regard, especially when you go for a second coat. The result is quite striking and very shiny, almost mirror-like. The trade off is in the drying time, which is longer than most metallic polishes (and causes me to repeatedly mess up). I use two coats of Essie base, which helps tremendously in spreading the wealth. A top coat is necessary for me, otherwise there's serious chipping and peeling after the third day in the areas that hit the keyboard most.
Chanel Kaleidoscope ($20) is a limited edition for fall 2008. It's still available from most Chanel counters, so please check your local department store before you drop $29-$50 on an eBay auction. I got mine from Neiman's.
Images: mine
Chanel Kaleidoscope Nail Polish
I was sniffing perfume at Bergdorf's Chanel counter (basically, reminding myself how much the Exclusif line with its family-size bottles of too weak juice annoys me), when the SA noticed my nail polish, Chanel Kaleidoscope. It's quite recognizable, and hard to miss.
Most of the bottle images and swatches you see online look more silvery and on the cool side of things. It's just how it photographs, as I discovered myself. But Kaleidoscope isn't silver, gray or even taupe. The best I can describe it is as a very light metallic khaki with gold undertones.
Metallics can be tricky to apply without showing every brush stroke. Kaleidoscope is a bit better in this regard, especially when you go for a second coat. The result is quite striking and very shiny, almost mirror-like. The trade off is in the drying time, which is longer than most metallic polishes (and causes me to repeatedly mess up). I use two coats of Essie base, which helps tremendously in spreading the wealth. A top coat is necessary for me, otherwise there's serious chipping and peeling after the third day in the areas that hit the keyboard most.
Chanel Kaleidoscope ($20) is a limited edition for fall 2008. It's still available from most Chanel counters, so please check your local department store before you drop $29-$50 on an eBay auction. I got mine from Neiman's.
Images: mine
Most of the bottle images and swatches you see online look more silvery and on the cool side of things. It's just how it photographs, as I discovered myself. But Kaleidoscope isn't silver, gray or even taupe. The best I can describe it is as a very light metallic khaki with gold undertones.
Metallics can be tricky to apply without showing every brush stroke. Kaleidoscope is a bit better in this regard, especially when you go for a second coat. The result is quite striking and very shiny, almost mirror-like. The trade off is in the drying time, which is longer than most metallic polishes (and causes me to repeatedly mess up). I use two coats of Essie base, which helps tremendously in spreading the wealth. A top coat is necessary for me, otherwise there's serious chipping and peeling after the third day in the areas that hit the keyboard most.
Chanel Kaleidoscope ($20) is a limited edition for fall 2008. It's still available from most Chanel counters, so please check your local department store before you drop $29-$50 on an eBay auction. I got mine from Neiman's.
Images: mine
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Would You Wear This?
I spent way too much time tonight staring at this D&G creation trying to understand the thought process behind it. The oversized turtleneck and huge sleeve are just too much for me to take. Maybe a (very) tall woman can pull it off, but it's still more medieval page boy than a sexy dress.
Dress: neimanmarcus.com
Richard III: tudorhistory.org
Dress: neimanmarcus.com
Richard III: tudorhistory.org
Would You Wear This?
I spent way too much time tonight staring at this D&G creation trying to understand the thought process behind it. The oversized turtleneck and huge sleeve are just too much for me to take. Maybe a (very) tall woman can pull it off, but it's still more medieval page boy than a sexy dress.
Dress: neimanmarcus.com
Richard III: tudorhistory.org
Dress: neimanmarcus.com
Richard III: tudorhistory.org
Would You Wear This?
I spent way too much time tonight staring at this D&G creation trying to understand the thought process behind it. The oversized turtleneck and huge sleeve are just too much for me to take. Maybe a (very) tall woman can pull it off, but it's still more medieval page boy than a sexy dress.
Dress: neimanmarcus.com
Richard III: tudorhistory.org
Dress: neimanmarcus.com
Richard III: tudorhistory.org
It's All Fun And Games Until Someone Trips On The Dress And Loses An Eye
I know what Eva Longoria is going through. She and I are about the same height (I might be half an inch taller, actually), which means just about everything I buy is too long (to the joy of Josephine, my seamstress). It seems like Eva skipped the tailor with this dress and it can get dangerous.
Other than that she looks fabulous and she's finally doing something about her hair (last seen PTA-ready), but a dress that drags on the floor and gets under one's feet can't be a very good idea.
Image: Faded Youth Blog
Other than that she looks fabulous and she's finally doing something about her hair (last seen PTA-ready), but a dress that drags on the floor and gets under one's feet can't be a very good idea.
Image: Faded Youth Blog
It's All Fun And Games Until Someone Trips On The Dress And Loses An Eye
I know what Eva Longoria is going through. She and I are about the same height (I might be half an inch taller, actually), which means just about everything I buy is too long (to the joy of Josephine, my seamstress). It seems like Eva skipped the tailor with this dress and it can get dangerous.
Other than that she looks fabulous and she's finally doing something about her hair (last seen PTA-ready), but a dress that drags on the floor and gets under one's feet can't be a very good idea.
Image: Faded Youth Blog
Other than that she looks fabulous and she's finally doing something about her hair (last seen PTA-ready), but a dress that drags on the floor and gets under one's feet can't be a very good idea.
Image: Faded Youth Blog
It's All Fun And Games Until Someone Trips On The Dress And Loses An Eye
I know what Eva Longoria is going through. She and I are about the same height (I might be half an inch taller, actually), which means just about everything I buy is too long (to the joy of Josephine, my seamstress). It seems like Eva skipped the tailor with this dress and it can get dangerous.
Other than that she looks fabulous and she's finally doing something about her hair (last seen PTA-ready), but a dress that drags on the floor and gets under one's feet can't be a very good idea.
Image: Faded Youth Blog
Other than that she looks fabulous and she's finally doing something about her hair (last seen PTA-ready), but a dress that drags on the floor and gets under one's feet can't be a very good idea.
Image: Faded Youth Blog
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
A Smoky Alternative: Nars Paris Eyeshadow Duo
After the disappointment of Chanel Smoky Eye Quad (too much shimmer, too little pigment), I was on a mission to find a reasonable alternative. I wanted a silver/gray set (I already have a couple of black shadows, and white is a complete waste on my skin) with minimum shimmer, and Paris, the duo from Nars fit the bill.
As you can see, the colors (especially the silver) are on the cool side. The shimmer in the silver one is minimal and it's a bit darker than most highlighters. I use it with a very light hand, to avoid the Heigl effect. The gray works well as an eye liner and looks good on the lid. It requires quite a bit of blending, and I like to add a bit of taupe (Bobbi Brown Flint) for a smoother, less harsh look. And I can't stress the light hand thing enough. Seriously. Remember the Heigl.
Photos (and freaky looking wrists): mine
And just because she matches the color scheme, Giselle. This time napping with Gracie.
Nars Eyeshadow Duo ($32) is available online and offline. I bought mine from Sephora on Union Square.
As you can see, the colors (especially the silver) are on the cool side. The shimmer in the silver one is minimal and it's a bit darker than most highlighters. I use it with a very light hand, to avoid the Heigl effect. The gray works well as an eye liner and looks good on the lid. It requires quite a bit of blending, and I like to add a bit of taupe (Bobbi Brown Flint) for a smoother, less harsh look. And I can't stress the light hand thing enough. Seriously. Remember the Heigl.
Photos (and freaky looking wrists): mine
And just because she matches the color scheme, Giselle. This time napping with Gracie.
Nars Eyeshadow Duo ($32) is available online and offline. I bought mine from Sephora on Union Square.
A Smoky Alternative: Nars Paris Eyeshadow Duo
After the disappointment of Chanel Smoky Eye Quad (too much shimmer, too little pigment), I was on a mission to find a reasonable alternative. I wanted a silver/gray set (I already have a couple of black shadows, and white is a complete waste on my skin) with minimum shimmer, and Paris, the duo from Nars fit the bill.
As you can see, the colors (especially the silver) are on the cool side. The shimmer in the silver one is minimal and it's a bit darker than most highlighters. I use it with a very light hand, to avoid the Heigl effect. The gray works well as an eye liner and looks good on the lid. It requires quite a bit of blending, and I like to add a bit of taupe (Bobbi Brown Flint) for a smoother, less harsh look. And I can't stress the light hand thing enough. Seriously. Remember the Heigl.
Photos (and freaky looking wrists): mine
And just because she matches the color scheme, Giselle. This time napping with Gracie.
Nars Eyeshadow Duo ($32) is available online and offline. I bought mine from Sephora on Union Square.
As you can see, the colors (especially the silver) are on the cool side. The shimmer in the silver one is minimal and it's a bit darker than most highlighters. I use it with a very light hand, to avoid the Heigl effect. The gray works well as an eye liner and looks good on the lid. It requires quite a bit of blending, and I like to add a bit of taupe (Bobbi Brown Flint) for a smoother, less harsh look. And I can't stress the light hand thing enough. Seriously. Remember the Heigl.
Photos (and freaky looking wrists): mine
And just because she matches the color scheme, Giselle. This time napping with Gracie.
Nars Eyeshadow Duo ($32) is available online and offline. I bought mine from Sephora on Union Square.
A Smoky Alternative: Nars Paris Eyeshadow Duo
After the disappointment of Chanel Smoky Eye Quad (too much shimmer, too little pigment), I was on a mission to find a reasonable alternative. I wanted a silver/gray set (I already have a couple of black shadows, and white is a complete waste on my skin) with minimum shimmer, and Paris, the duo from Nars fit the bill.
As you can see, the colors (especially the silver) are on the cool side. The shimmer in the silver one is minimal and it's a bit darker than most highlighters. I use it with a very light hand, to avoid the Heigl effect. The gray works well as an eye liner and looks good on the lid. It requires quite a bit of blending, and I like to add a bit of taupe (Bobbi Brown Flint) for a smoother, less harsh look. And I can't stress the light hand thing enough. Seriously. Remember the Heigl.
Photos (and freaky looking wrists): mine
And just because she matches the color scheme, Giselle. This time napping with Gracie.
Nars Eyeshadow Duo ($32) is available online and offline. I bought mine from Sephora on Union Square.
As you can see, the colors (especially the silver) are on the cool side. The shimmer in the silver one is minimal and it's a bit darker than most highlighters. I use it with a very light hand, to avoid the Heigl effect. The gray works well as an eye liner and looks good on the lid. It requires quite a bit of blending, and I like to add a bit of taupe (Bobbi Brown Flint) for a smoother, less harsh look. And I can't stress the light hand thing enough. Seriously. Remember the Heigl.
Photos (and freaky looking wrists): mine
And just because she matches the color scheme, Giselle. This time napping with Gracie.
Nars Eyeshadow Duo ($32) is available online and offline. I bought mine from Sephora on Union Square.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Serge Lutens Borneo 1834
I don't know it would have made any difference to have Borneo 1834 as the first Serge Lutens I smelled when I was taking my first sniffs of the road less traveled. Maybe Borneo, with its camphorous opening blast and dusty dark patchouli might have scared me away. Or maybe not. I already had a strong enough aversion to the shower-fresh genre and a distinct preference for masculine fragrances, so maybe I would have fallen hopelessly in love even then.
As things stand, my first Serge was Un Bois Vanille and it taught me that not all vanillas were created equally. It was followed closely by Cedre (a subversive tuberose), Miel de Bois (I like funk) and Gris Clair (who knew my husband could smell like that?). All the above means that by the time I finally got to try Borneo, my nose has already seen a thing or two and I was ready to take on a scent that has been described on one of the boards as "chocolate covered mothballs". So I did, and loved every minute of it.
Now, Borneo is not an easy scent. Camphor is not necessarily what one thinks about as pretty, and the cocoa-patchouli is as far from Thierry Mugler's foul and fallen Angel as the Palais Royal is from a B&BW store at your local suburban mall. But the depth and development are rich and addictive, though not in a foody way, despite the bitter chocolate. It's not really of the "yummy" variety, probably because of the dry, dusty element. This is a warm, smoky scent, and on my skin there's a complexity not entirely expected from such straightforward two main notes. The spices rise and fall, the camphor fades into a minty accord, the chocolate maintains a dark, not-so-fresh quality and you half expect it to disintegrate into a musky-tonka cuddly thing, but it never does. This is what keeps Borneo unisex.
I don't think I've seen a comparison to Mazzolari's Lui, which is another big patch-spice combo. Cocoa isn't listed among Lui's notes, but I get quite bit of it (also in the feminine version, Lei). Lui has an ambery sweetness, and gets its warmth from sandalwood and vetiver. It might be easier to wear for some, because it lacks the weird opening, but others would find Borneo more understated and elegant. I adore both.
On my skin, Borneo has a moderate sillage (a bit more when sprayed) and a good staying power (8 hours, easily). I wore it occasionally in tiny amounts during the summer, but it's much more suited for cold weather as it can be applied liberally (read: sprayed with abandon if I'm in the right frame of mind and not planning on entering a public elevator). The residue on my shawls and scarves is heavenly. When the weather is right, the scent is perfectly acceptable for daytime wear, but I'd be a bit wary of exposing innocent souls to the top notes. If I were a man, I'd wear it on a first date and expect swooning, but I'm not sure I can recommend the same for the ladies, probably because it makes quite a statement. Would I wear it for the third date? Not sure. Isn't that what Shalimar was made for? But I'd be overjoyed if my date would go with Borneo for the occasion.
Borneo 1834 is part of the non-export line (I bought my bell jar at the Palais Royal), but starting this week it's available as a limited edition from most of the usual suspects in the regular rectangular bottles. It's already at Barneys NY (they haven't updated the ridiculous website, though, so you'll need to call), and according to the SA at Bergdorf, they'll have it in a couple of days.
Image by Pamela Sukhum from Vinings Gallery
As things stand, my first Serge was Un Bois Vanille and it taught me that not all vanillas were created equally. It was followed closely by Cedre (a subversive tuberose), Miel de Bois (I like funk) and Gris Clair (who knew my husband could smell like that?). All the above means that by the time I finally got to try Borneo, my nose has already seen a thing or two and I was ready to take on a scent that has been described on one of the boards as "chocolate covered mothballs". So I did, and loved every minute of it.
Now, Borneo is not an easy scent. Camphor is not necessarily what one thinks about as pretty, and the cocoa-patchouli is as far from Thierry Mugler's foul and fallen Angel as the Palais Royal is from a B&BW store at your local suburban mall. But the depth and development are rich and addictive, though not in a foody way, despite the bitter chocolate. It's not really of the "yummy" variety, probably because of the dry, dusty element. This is a warm, smoky scent, and on my skin there's a complexity not entirely expected from such straightforward two main notes. The spices rise and fall, the camphor fades into a minty accord, the chocolate maintains a dark, not-so-fresh quality and you half expect it to disintegrate into a musky-tonka cuddly thing, but it never does. This is what keeps Borneo unisex.
I don't think I've seen a comparison to Mazzolari's Lui, which is another big patch-spice combo. Cocoa isn't listed among Lui's notes, but I get quite bit of it (also in the feminine version, Lei). Lui has an ambery sweetness, and gets its warmth from sandalwood and vetiver. It might be easier to wear for some, because it lacks the weird opening, but others would find Borneo more understated and elegant. I adore both.
On my skin, Borneo has a moderate sillage (a bit more when sprayed) and a good staying power (8 hours, easily). I wore it occasionally in tiny amounts during the summer, but it's much more suited for cold weather as it can be applied liberally (read: sprayed with abandon if I'm in the right frame of mind and not planning on entering a public elevator). The residue on my shawls and scarves is heavenly. When the weather is right, the scent is perfectly acceptable for daytime wear, but I'd be a bit wary of exposing innocent souls to the top notes. If I were a man, I'd wear it on a first date and expect swooning, but I'm not sure I can recommend the same for the ladies, probably because it makes quite a statement. Would I wear it for the third date? Not sure. Isn't that what Shalimar was made for? But I'd be overjoyed if my date would go with Borneo for the occasion.
Borneo 1834 is part of the non-export line (I bought my bell jar at the Palais Royal), but starting this week it's available as a limited edition from most of the usual suspects in the regular rectangular bottles. It's already at Barneys NY (they haven't updated the ridiculous website, though, so you'll need to call), and according to the SA at Bergdorf, they'll have it in a couple of days.
Image by Pamela Sukhum from Vinings Gallery
Serge Lutens Borneo 1834
I don't know it would have made any difference to have Borneo 1834 as the first Serge Lutens I smelled when I was taking my first sniffs of the road less traveled. Maybe Borneo, with its camphorous opening blast and dusty dark patchouli might have scared me away. Or maybe not. I already had a strong enough aversion to the shower-fresh genre and a distinct preference for masculine fragrances, so maybe I would have fallen hopelessly in love even then.
As things stand, my first Serge was Un Bois Vanille and it taught me that not all vanillas were created equally. It was followed closely by Cedre (a subversive tuberose), Miel de Bois (I like funk) and Gris Clair (who knew my husband could smell like that?). All the above means that by the time I finally got to try Borneo, my nose has already seen a thing or two and I was ready to take on a scent that has been described on one of the boards as "chocolate covered mothballs". So I did, and loved every minute of it.
Now, Borneo is not an easy scent. Camphor is not necessarily what one thinks about as pretty, and the cocoa-patchouli is as far from Thierry Mugler's foul and fallen Angel as the Palais Royal is from a B&BW store at your local suburban mall. But the depth and development are rich and addictive, though not in a foody way, despite the bitter chocolate. It's not really of the "yummy" variety, probably because of the dry, dusty element. This is a warm, smoky scent, and on my skin there's a complexity not entirely expected from such straightforward two main notes. The spices rise and fall, the camphor fades into a minty accord, the chocolate maintains a dark, not-so-fresh quality and you half expect it to disintegrate into a musky-tonka cuddly thing, but it never does. This is what keeps Borneo unisex.
I don't think I've seen a comparison to Mazzolari's Lui, which is another big patch-spice combo. Cocoa isn't listed among Lui's notes, but I get quite bit of it (also in the feminine version, Lei). Lui has an ambery sweetness, and gets its warmth from sandalwood and vetiver. It might be easier to wear for some, because it lacks the weird opening, but others would find Borneo more understated and elegant. I adore both.
On my skin, Borneo has a moderate sillage (a bit more when sprayed) and a good staying power (8 hours, easily). I wore it occasionally in tiny amounts during the summer, but it's much more suited for cold weather as it can be applied liberally (read: sprayed with abandon if I'm in the right frame of mind and not planning on entering a public elevator). The residue on my shawls and scarves is heavenly. When the weather is right, the scent is perfectly acceptable for daytime wear, but I'd be a bit wary of exposing innocent souls to the top notes. If I were a man, I'd wear it on a first date and expect swooning, but I'm not sure I can recommend the same for the ladies, probably because it makes quite a statement. Would I wear it for the third date? Not sure. Isn't that what Shalimar was made for? But I'd be overjoyed if my date would go with Borneo for the occasion.
Borneo 1834 is part of the non-export line (I bought my bell jar at the Palais Royal), but starting this week it's available as a limited edition from most of the usual suspects in the regular rectangular bottles. It's already at Barneys NY (they haven't updated the ridiculous website, though, so you'll need to call), and according to the SA at Bergdorf, they'll have it in a couple of days.
Image by Pamela Sukhum from Vinings Gallery
As things stand, my first Serge was Un Bois Vanille and it taught me that not all vanillas were created equally. It was followed closely by Cedre (a subversive tuberose), Miel de Bois (I like funk) and Gris Clair (who knew my husband could smell like that?). All the above means that by the time I finally got to try Borneo, my nose has already seen a thing or two and I was ready to take on a scent that has been described on one of the boards as "chocolate covered mothballs". So I did, and loved every minute of it.
Now, Borneo is not an easy scent. Camphor is not necessarily what one thinks about as pretty, and the cocoa-patchouli is as far from Thierry Mugler's foul and fallen Angel as the Palais Royal is from a B&BW store at your local suburban mall. But the depth and development are rich and addictive, though not in a foody way, despite the bitter chocolate. It's not really of the "yummy" variety, probably because of the dry, dusty element. This is a warm, smoky scent, and on my skin there's a complexity not entirely expected from such straightforward two main notes. The spices rise and fall, the camphor fades into a minty accord, the chocolate maintains a dark, not-so-fresh quality and you half expect it to disintegrate into a musky-tonka cuddly thing, but it never does. This is what keeps Borneo unisex.
I don't think I've seen a comparison to Mazzolari's Lui, which is another big patch-spice combo. Cocoa isn't listed among Lui's notes, but I get quite bit of it (also in the feminine version, Lei). Lui has an ambery sweetness, and gets its warmth from sandalwood and vetiver. It might be easier to wear for some, because it lacks the weird opening, but others would find Borneo more understated and elegant. I adore both.
On my skin, Borneo has a moderate sillage (a bit more when sprayed) and a good staying power (8 hours, easily). I wore it occasionally in tiny amounts during the summer, but it's much more suited for cold weather as it can be applied liberally (read: sprayed with abandon if I'm in the right frame of mind and not planning on entering a public elevator). The residue on my shawls and scarves is heavenly. When the weather is right, the scent is perfectly acceptable for daytime wear, but I'd be a bit wary of exposing innocent souls to the top notes. If I were a man, I'd wear it on a first date and expect swooning, but I'm not sure I can recommend the same for the ladies, probably because it makes quite a statement. Would I wear it for the third date? Not sure. Isn't that what Shalimar was made for? But I'd be overjoyed if my date would go with Borneo for the occasion.
Borneo 1834 is part of the non-export line (I bought my bell jar at the Palais Royal), but starting this week it's available as a limited edition from most of the usual suspects in the regular rectangular bottles. It's already at Barneys NY (they haven't updated the ridiculous website, though, so you'll need to call), and according to the SA at Bergdorf, they'll have it in a couple of days.
Image by Pamela Sukhum from Vinings Gallery
Serge Lutens Borneo 1834
I don't know it would have made any difference to have Borneo 1834 as the first Serge Lutens I smelled when I was taking my first sniffs of the road less traveled. Maybe Borneo, with its camphorous opening blast and dusty dark patchouli might have scared me away. Or maybe not. I already had a strong enough aversion to the shower-fresh genre and a distinct preference for masculine fragrances, so maybe I would have fallen hopelessly in love even then.
As things stand, my first Serge was Un Bois Vanille and it taught me that not all vanillas were created equally. It was followed closely by Cedre (a subversive tuberose), Miel de Bois (I like funk) and Gris Clair (who knew my husband could smell like that?). All the above means that by the time I finally got to try Borneo, my nose has already seen a thing or two and I was ready to take on a scent that has been described on one of the boards as "chocolate covered mothballs". So I did, and loved every minute of it.
Now, Borneo is not an easy scent. Camphor is not necessarily what one thinks about as pretty, and the cocoa-patchouli is as far from Thierry Mugler's foul and fallen Angel as the Palais Royal is from a B&BW store at your local suburban mall. But the depth and development are rich and addictive, though not in a foody way, despite the bitter chocolate. It's not really of the "yummy" variety, probably because of the dry, dusty element. This is a warm, smoky scent, and on my skin there's a complexity not entirely expected from such straightforward two main notes. The spices rise and fall, the camphor fades into a minty accord, the chocolate maintains a dark, not-so-fresh quality and you half expect it to disintegrate into a musky-tonka cuddly thing, but it never does. This is what keeps Borneo unisex.
I don't think I've seen a comparison to Mazzolari's Lui, which is another big patch-spice combo. Cocoa isn't listed among Lui's notes, but I get quite bit of it (also in the feminine version, Lei). Lui has an ambery sweetness, and gets its warmth from sandalwood and vetiver. It might be easier to wear for some, because it lacks the weird opening, but others would find Borneo more understated and elegant. I adore both.
On my skin, Borneo has a moderate sillage (a bit more when sprayed) and a good staying power (8 hours, easily). I wore it occasionally in tiny amounts during the summer, but it's much more suited for cold weather as it can be applied liberally (read: sprayed with abandon if I'm in the right frame of mind and not planning on entering a public elevator). The residue on my shawls and scarves is heavenly. When the weather is right, the scent is perfectly acceptable for daytime wear, but I'd be a bit wary of exposing innocent souls to the top notes. If I were a man, I'd wear it on a first date and expect swooning, but I'm not sure I can recommend the same for the ladies, probably because it makes quite a statement. Would I wear it for the third date? Not sure. Isn't that what Shalimar was made for? But I'd be overjoyed if my date would go with Borneo for the occasion.
Borneo 1834 is part of the non-export line (I bought my bell jar at the Palais Royal), but starting this week it's available as a limited edition from most of the usual suspects in the regular rectangular bottles. It's already at Barneys NY (they haven't updated the ridiculous website, though, so you'll need to call), and according to the SA at Bergdorf, they'll have it in a couple of days.
Image by Pamela Sukhum from Vinings Gallery
As things stand, my first Serge was Un Bois Vanille and it taught me that not all vanillas were created equally. It was followed closely by Cedre (a subversive tuberose), Miel de Bois (I like funk) and Gris Clair (who knew my husband could smell like that?). All the above means that by the time I finally got to try Borneo, my nose has already seen a thing or two and I was ready to take on a scent that has been described on one of the boards as "chocolate covered mothballs". So I did, and loved every minute of it.
Now, Borneo is not an easy scent. Camphor is not necessarily what one thinks about as pretty, and the cocoa-patchouli is as far from Thierry Mugler's foul and fallen Angel as the Palais Royal is from a B&BW store at your local suburban mall. But the depth and development are rich and addictive, though not in a foody way, despite the bitter chocolate. It's not really of the "yummy" variety, probably because of the dry, dusty element. This is a warm, smoky scent, and on my skin there's a complexity not entirely expected from such straightforward two main notes. The spices rise and fall, the camphor fades into a minty accord, the chocolate maintains a dark, not-so-fresh quality and you half expect it to disintegrate into a musky-tonka cuddly thing, but it never does. This is what keeps Borneo unisex.
I don't think I've seen a comparison to Mazzolari's Lui, which is another big patch-spice combo. Cocoa isn't listed among Lui's notes, but I get quite bit of it (also in the feminine version, Lei). Lui has an ambery sweetness, and gets its warmth from sandalwood and vetiver. It might be easier to wear for some, because it lacks the weird opening, but others would find Borneo more understated and elegant. I adore both.
On my skin, Borneo has a moderate sillage (a bit more when sprayed) and a good staying power (8 hours, easily). I wore it occasionally in tiny amounts during the summer, but it's much more suited for cold weather as it can be applied liberally (read: sprayed with abandon if I'm in the right frame of mind and not planning on entering a public elevator). The residue on my shawls and scarves is heavenly. When the weather is right, the scent is perfectly acceptable for daytime wear, but I'd be a bit wary of exposing innocent souls to the top notes. If I were a man, I'd wear it on a first date and expect swooning, but I'm not sure I can recommend the same for the ladies, probably because it makes quite a statement. Would I wear it for the third date? Not sure. Isn't that what Shalimar was made for? But I'd be overjoyed if my date would go with Borneo for the occasion.
Borneo 1834 is part of the non-export line (I bought my bell jar at the Palais Royal), but starting this week it's available as a limited edition from most of the usual suspects in the regular rectangular bottles. It's already at Barneys NY (they haven't updated the ridiculous website, though, so you'll need to call), and according to the SA at Bergdorf, they'll have it in a couple of days.
Image by Pamela Sukhum from Vinings Gallery
Sunday, October 26, 2008
New At Bergdorf Goodman: Serge Lutens Santal De Mysore
The formerly Paris exclusive Serge Lutens Santal de Mysore has joined the other scents that left their bell jars (Bois et Fruits, Bois et Sepia, Un Bois Sepia and Bois de Violette), and is now available at the rectangular bottle only at Bergdorf Goodman in NYC. They also have the gorgeous Chergui now, which was previously a limited edition Barneys exclusive (and rumor has it that most Barneys store are now out of stock).
Uncle Serge defines Santal de Mysore as "Maternal sandal wood laid over Siam spices" (from the Serge Lutens website). It's a unisex scent, leaning heavily towards the masculine. I like the woody part very much, but the "Siam spices" is more or less cumin (think Arabie light), though smoother and maybe blonder, if that makes any sense.
It's wonderful to see more and more of the non-exports actually being exported and available here (while they're not online, you can still call the store and place an order). If someone at the Palais Royal is listening, I dearly hope to see Rahat Loukhoum and Bois et Musc cross the Atlantic next. Pretty please with cumin on top...
(And don't forget that this year's limited edition that will be available from most Serge Lutens distributors is Borneo 1834. Bergdorf will have it later this week)
Image: Serge Lutens
Uncle Serge defines Santal de Mysore as "Maternal sandal wood laid over Siam spices" (from the Serge Lutens website). It's a unisex scent, leaning heavily towards the masculine. I like the woody part very much, but the "Siam spices" is more or less cumin (think Arabie light), though smoother and maybe blonder, if that makes any sense.
It's wonderful to see more and more of the non-exports actually being exported and available here (while they're not online, you can still call the store and place an order). If someone at the Palais Royal is listening, I dearly hope to see Rahat Loukhoum and Bois et Musc cross the Atlantic next. Pretty please with cumin on top...
(And don't forget that this year's limited edition that will be available from most Serge Lutens distributors is Borneo 1834. Bergdorf will have it later this week)
Image: Serge Lutens
New At Bergdorf Goodman: Serge Lutens Santal De Mysore
The formerly Paris exclusive Serge Lutens Santal de Mysore has joined the other scents that left their bell jars (Bois et Fruits, Bois et Sepia, Un Bois Sepia and Bois de Violette), and is now available at the rectangular bottle only at Bergdorf Goodman in NYC. They also have the gorgeous Chergui now, which was previously a limited edition Barneys exclusive (and rumor has it that most Barneys store are now out of stock).
Uncle Serge defines Santal de Mysore as "Maternal sandal wood laid over Siam spices" (from the Serge Lutens website). It's a unisex scent, leaning heavily towards the masculine. I like the woody part very much, but the "Siam spices" is more or less cumin (think Arabie light), though smoother and maybe blonder, if that makes any sense.
It's wonderful to see more and more of the non-exports actually being exported and available here (while they're not online, you can still call the store and place an order). If someone at the Palais Royal is listening, I dearly hope to see Rahat Loukhoum and Bois et Musc cross the Atlantic next. Pretty please with cumin on top...
(And don't forget that this year's limited edition that will be available from most Serge Lutens distributors is Borneo 1834. Bergdorf will have it later this week)
Image: Serge Lutens
Uncle Serge defines Santal de Mysore as "Maternal sandal wood laid over Siam spices" (from the Serge Lutens website). It's a unisex scent, leaning heavily towards the masculine. I like the woody part very much, but the "Siam spices" is more or less cumin (think Arabie light), though smoother and maybe blonder, if that makes any sense.
It's wonderful to see more and more of the non-exports actually being exported and available here (while they're not online, you can still call the store and place an order). If someone at the Palais Royal is listening, I dearly hope to see Rahat Loukhoum and Bois et Musc cross the Atlantic next. Pretty please with cumin on top...
(And don't forget that this year's limited edition that will be available from most Serge Lutens distributors is Borneo 1834. Bergdorf will have it later this week)
Image: Serge Lutens
New At Bergdorf Goodman: Serge Lutens Santal De Mysore
The formerly Paris exclusive Serge Lutens Santal de Mysore has joined the other scents that left their bell jars (Bois et Fruits, Bois et Sepia, Un Bois Sepia and Bois de Violette), and is now available at the rectangular bottle only at Bergdorf Goodman in NYC. They also have the gorgeous Chergui now, which was previously a limited edition Barneys exclusive (and rumor has it that most Barneys store are now out of stock).
Uncle Serge defines Santal de Mysore as "Maternal sandal wood laid over Siam spices" (from the Serge Lutens website). It's a unisex scent, leaning heavily towards the masculine. I like the woody part very much, but the "Siam spices" is more or less cumin (think Arabie light), though smoother and maybe blonder, if that makes any sense.
It's wonderful to see more and more of the non-exports actually being exported and available here (while they're not online, you can still call the store and place an order). If someone at the Palais Royal is listening, I dearly hope to see Rahat Loukhoum and Bois et Musc cross the Atlantic next. Pretty please with cumin on top...
(And don't forget that this year's limited edition that will be available from most Serge Lutens distributors is Borneo 1834. Bergdorf will have it later this week)
Image: Serge Lutens
Uncle Serge defines Santal de Mysore as "Maternal sandal wood laid over Siam spices" (from the Serge Lutens website). It's a unisex scent, leaning heavily towards the masculine. I like the woody part very much, but the "Siam spices" is more or less cumin (think Arabie light), though smoother and maybe blonder, if that makes any sense.
It's wonderful to see more and more of the non-exports actually being exported and available here (while they're not online, you can still call the store and place an order). If someone at the Palais Royal is listening, I dearly hope to see Rahat Loukhoum and Bois et Musc cross the Atlantic next. Pretty please with cumin on top...
(And don't forget that this year's limited edition that will be available from most Serge Lutens distributors is Borneo 1834. Bergdorf will have it later this week)
Image: Serge Lutens
Friday, October 24, 2008
Katherine Heigl- A Close Up
I keep looking at this photo of Katherine Heigl (click to enlarge), trying to decide what exactly bothers me about her. After all, the eye makeup is really nice, a smoky eye done right. But then there's the smoker's skin, the over-bronzing and the weird updo.
What do you think?
Image: A Socialite's Life
What do you think?
Image: A Socialite's Life
Katherine Heigl- A Close Up
I keep looking at this photo of Katherine Heigl (click to enlarge), trying to decide what exactly bothers me about her. After all, the eye makeup is really nice, a smoky eye done right. But then there's the smoker's skin, the over-bronzing and the weird updo.
What do you think?
Image: A Socialite's Life
What do you think?
Image: A Socialite's Life
Katherine Heigl- A Close Up
I keep looking at this photo of Katherine Heigl (click to enlarge), trying to decide what exactly bothers me about her. After all, the eye makeup is really nice, a smoky eye done right. But then there's the smoker's skin, the over-bronzing and the weird updo.
What do you think?
Image: A Socialite's Life
What do you think?
Image: A Socialite's Life
DVF Fights Counterfeiters
Remember my eBay fiasco with the fake DVF dress?
Apparently, Diane von Furstenberg designs were very popular among counterfeiters, because the company decided to take some serious action. All the new items I've purchased recently have an additional inner label, right above the white one that indicates the model and its number. The new black label has a metalic insert very much like what you see on paper money, but with the designer's face on it. Pretty cool. The back of the label reads: "This label with security features is a certificate of authenticity".
From now on, if you're considering buying DVF on eBay (and the item is from fall 2008 or newer), ask the seller takes a picture of this inner label to make sure you're getting the real deal.
More companies need to consider taking such measures. Not sure if it's enough to restore customers waning faith in eBay, but maybe it's a start.
both photos are mine
Apparently, Diane von Furstenberg designs were very popular among counterfeiters, because the company decided to take some serious action. All the new items I've purchased recently have an additional inner label, right above the white one that indicates the model and its number. The new black label has a metalic insert very much like what you see on paper money, but with the designer's face on it. Pretty cool. The back of the label reads: "This label with security features is a certificate of authenticity".
From now on, if you're considering buying DVF on eBay (and the item is from fall 2008 or newer), ask the seller takes a picture of this inner label to make sure you're getting the real deal.
More companies need to consider taking such measures. Not sure if it's enough to restore customers waning faith in eBay, but maybe it's a start.
both photos are mine
DVF Fights Counterfeiters
Remember my eBay fiasco with the fake DVF dress?
Apparently, Diane von Furstenberg designs were very popular among counterfeiters, because the company decided to take some serious action. All the new items I've purchased recently have an additional inner label, right above the white one that indicates the model and its number. The new black label has a metalic insert very much like what you see on paper money, but with the designer's face on it. Pretty cool. The back of the label reads: "This label with security features is a certificate of authenticity".
From now on, if you're considering buying DVF on eBay (and the item is from fall 2008 or newer), ask the seller takes a picture of this inner label to make sure you're getting the real deal.
More companies need to consider taking such measures. Not sure if it's enough to restore customers waning faith in eBay, but maybe it's a start.
both photos are mine
Apparently, Diane von Furstenberg designs were very popular among counterfeiters, because the company decided to take some serious action. All the new items I've purchased recently have an additional inner label, right above the white one that indicates the model and its number. The new black label has a metalic insert very much like what you see on paper money, but with the designer's face on it. Pretty cool. The back of the label reads: "This label with security features is a certificate of authenticity".
From now on, if you're considering buying DVF on eBay (and the item is from fall 2008 or newer), ask the seller takes a picture of this inner label to make sure you're getting the real deal.
More companies need to consider taking such measures. Not sure if it's enough to restore customers waning faith in eBay, but maybe it's a start.
both photos are mine
DVF Fights Counterfeiters
Remember my eBay fiasco with the fake DVF dress?
Apparently, Diane von Furstenberg designs were very popular among counterfeiters, because the company decided to take some serious action. All the new items I've purchased recently have an additional inner label, right above the white one that indicates the model and its number. The new black label has a metalic insert very much like what you see on paper money, but with the designer's face on it. Pretty cool. The back of the label reads: "This label with security features is a certificate of authenticity".
From now on, if you're considering buying DVF on eBay (and the item is from fall 2008 or newer), ask the seller takes a picture of this inner label to make sure you're getting the real deal.
More companies need to consider taking such measures. Not sure if it's enough to restore customers waning faith in eBay, but maybe it's a start.
both photos are mine
Apparently, Diane von Furstenberg designs were very popular among counterfeiters, because the company decided to take some serious action. All the new items I've purchased recently have an additional inner label, right above the white one that indicates the model and its number. The new black label has a metalic insert very much like what you see on paper money, but with the designer's face on it. Pretty cool. The back of the label reads: "This label with security features is a certificate of authenticity".
From now on, if you're considering buying DVF on eBay (and the item is from fall 2008 or newer), ask the seller takes a picture of this inner label to make sure you're getting the real deal.
More companies need to consider taking such measures. Not sure if it's enough to restore customers waning faith in eBay, but maybe it's a start.
both photos are mine
Thursday, October 23, 2008
All That Glitters- Part 2
We're back to discussing shiny stuff : shimmer, glitter and metallic makeup options for those of us who have come of age...
Last week I reviewed Chanel Facette D'Or highlighting powder, which is a (very) subtly glittery finishing face product. The other day I realized that I'm getting a similar shimmery effect from an old favorite, Guerlain Terracotta bronzer. While its purpose is different and I still use a touch of powder over it, when it comes to a glowy touch, Terracotta is actually my favorite of the two. Which leads me to including bronzers or even blushes with a touch of shimmer in the list of age-appropriate options, as long as they're lightly applied. Personally, I'd avoid the popular Nars blushes (and Orgasm has never worked for me in all its weird orange glory), as they're just too much, but if you have a favorite item, don't bury it at the bottom drawer (any recommendations?).
If there's one area in the face we really want to shine, it's the eyes. There are endless textures and options for highlighting eye shadow (often referred to as "wash" in SA and makeup artist speak). Basically, it's the light shimmery color you apply under the brow and "opens up the eye". While Nars is famous for super pigmented, super shiny eye shadows, I find most of them over-the-top and not morning friendly. Many of the Chanel quads are also too much (though the singles are highly recommended), and I found the Smoky Eye set verging on unwearable for me (I do have a great alternative for this look. Stay tuned).
My choice in this category is Bobbi Brown. Her shimmers are elegant (though some are too light for my skin) and the metallics are velvety and perfect. All of them are office-friendly and quite fool-proof. No complicated application technique needed.
The other option for sparkly eyes comes in the form of shimmery eye liners. Here you can be a little bolder, because you apply a small amount and only cover very little skin, but the result is always pretty. Lancome Artliner comes in several pearly colors (I still miss Socialite, a limited edition metallic taupe from a couple of years ago) and there's a new one in their Holiday collection. Other favorites are Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Chocolate Shimmer Ink (there are several other shimmery options) and the liquid liner from Urban Decay. They have several interesting colors and the look of an ultra thin glittery line just at the lash base can work for just about everyone, even if you only dare to go there at night.
Lips are easy. I actually find that matte lips can be aging (not to mention require more work than I'm willing to do on a daily basis). As long as we avoid the goopy Paris Hilton look, I think we're safe with just about any good lipstick or gloss. Once again, it's hard to go wrong with Bobbi Brown (including the new Glitter Lip Balm. I'm serious), but just about every brand from Chanel and Dior to your favorite drugstore pick-me-up. For evening, I'm especially fond of YSL Golden Gloss: Golden Pralin for a nude look and Golden Plum for some serious sex appeal.
The safest choice for shimmer, though, is nail color. Here one can experiment a lot more. After all, it's not on our faces, right?
I'd still avoid the heavy glitters, but that's a personal choice. I don't wear blue or black polish, either. My mother's signature nail color is a pearly peach. She changes the brand frequently but never the look. I don't think I ever saw her with a satiny nail color (or in red, for that matter). I used to love the Anna Sui nail lacquers that are now nearly impossible to find (some online discounters still have some). The new OPI for Sephora line includes several interesting ones (and also some really atrocious colors) and Zoya has a huge selection of metallic colors. Another personal favorite is Lippmann Collection. While I'd skip the new limited edition Superstar (copper glitter. A bit too much for me), Brown Eyed Girl is a perfect chocolate shimmer, and Pump Up The Jam is a purplish glimmer.
I think the point is that you can wear something shiny at every age. The key is a light hand, a good quality product and, of course, focusing on just one area and wearing matte colors everywhere else.
How do you feel about all that glitters? What wouldn't you wear? Do you think there's an age limit for shiny things?
Last week I reviewed Chanel Facette D'Or highlighting powder, which is a (very) subtly glittery finishing face product. The other day I realized that I'm getting a similar shimmery effect from an old favorite, Guerlain Terracotta bronzer. While its purpose is different and I still use a touch of powder over it, when it comes to a glowy touch, Terracotta is actually my favorite of the two. Which leads me to including bronzers or even blushes with a touch of shimmer in the list of age-appropriate options, as long as they're lightly applied. Personally, I'd avoid the popular Nars blushes (and Orgasm has never worked for me in all its weird orange glory), as they're just too much, but if you have a favorite item, don't bury it at the bottom drawer (any recommendations?).
If there's one area in the face we really want to shine, it's the eyes. There are endless textures and options for highlighting eye shadow (often referred to as "wash" in SA and makeup artist speak). Basically, it's the light shimmery color you apply under the brow and "opens up the eye". While Nars is famous for super pigmented, super shiny eye shadows, I find most of them over-the-top and not morning friendly. Many of the Chanel quads are also too much (though the singles are highly recommended), and I found the Smoky Eye set verging on unwearable for me (I do have a great alternative for this look. Stay tuned).
My choice in this category is Bobbi Brown. Her shimmers are elegant (though some are too light for my skin) and the metallics are velvety and perfect. All of them are office-friendly and quite fool-proof. No complicated application technique needed.
The other option for sparkly eyes comes in the form of shimmery eye liners. Here you can be a little bolder, because you apply a small amount and only cover very little skin, but the result is always pretty. Lancome Artliner comes in several pearly colors (I still miss Socialite, a limited edition metallic taupe from a couple of years ago) and there's a new one in their Holiday collection. Other favorites are Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Chocolate Shimmer Ink (there are several other shimmery options) and the liquid liner from Urban Decay. They have several interesting colors and the look of an ultra thin glittery line just at the lash base can work for just about everyone, even if you only dare to go there at night.
Lips are easy. I actually find that matte lips can be aging (not to mention require more work than I'm willing to do on a daily basis). As long as we avoid the goopy Paris Hilton look, I think we're safe with just about any good lipstick or gloss. Once again, it's hard to go wrong with Bobbi Brown (including the new Glitter Lip Balm. I'm serious), but just about every brand from Chanel and Dior to your favorite drugstore pick-me-up. For evening, I'm especially fond of YSL Golden Gloss: Golden Pralin for a nude look and Golden Plum for some serious sex appeal.
The safest choice for shimmer, though, is nail color. Here one can experiment a lot more. After all, it's not on our faces, right?
I'd still avoid the heavy glitters, but that's a personal choice. I don't wear blue or black polish, either. My mother's signature nail color is a pearly peach. She changes the brand frequently but never the look. I don't think I ever saw her with a satiny nail color (or in red, for that matter). I used to love the Anna Sui nail lacquers that are now nearly impossible to find (some online discounters still have some). The new OPI for Sephora line includes several interesting ones (and also some really atrocious colors) and Zoya has a huge selection of metallic colors. Another personal favorite is Lippmann Collection. While I'd skip the new limited edition Superstar (copper glitter. A bit too much for me), Brown Eyed Girl is a perfect chocolate shimmer, and Pump Up The Jam is a purplish glimmer.
I think the point is that you can wear something shiny at every age. The key is a light hand, a good quality product and, of course, focusing on just one area and wearing matte colors everywhere else.
How do you feel about all that glitters? What wouldn't you wear? Do you think there's an age limit for shiny things?
All That Glitters- Part 2
We're back to discussing shiny stuff : shimmer, glitter and metallic makeup options for those of us who have come of age...
Last week I reviewed Chanel Facette D'Or highlighting powder, which is a (very) subtly glittery finishing face product. The other day I realized that I'm getting a similar shimmery effect from an old favorite, Guerlain Terracotta bronzer. While its purpose is different and I still use a touch of powder over it, when it comes to a glowy touch, Terracotta is actually my favorite of the two. Which leads me to including bronzers or even blushes with a touch of shimmer in the list of age-appropriate options, as long as they're lightly applied. Personally, I'd avoid the popular Nars blushes (and Orgasm has never worked for me in all its weird orange glory), as they're just too much, but if you have a favorite item, don't bury it at the bottom drawer (any recommendations?).
If there's one area in the face we really want to shine, it's the eyes. There are endless textures and options for highlighting eye shadow (often referred to as "wash" in SA and makeup artist speak). Basically, it's the light shimmery color you apply under the brow and "opens up the eye". While Nars is famous for super pigmented, super shiny eye shadows, I find most of them over-the-top and not morning friendly. Many of the Chanel quads are also too much (though the singles are highly recommended), and I found the Smoky Eye set verging on unwearable for me (I do have a great alternative for this look. Stay tuned).
My choice in this category is Bobbi Brown. Her shimmers are elegant (though some are too light for my skin) and the metallics are velvety and perfect. All of them are office-friendly and quite fool-proof. No complicated application technique needed.
The other option for sparkly eyes comes in the form of shimmery eye liners. Here you can be a little bolder, because you apply a small amount and only cover very little skin, but the result is always pretty. Lancome Artliner comes in several pearly colors (I still miss Socialite, a limited edition metallic taupe from a couple of years ago) and there's a new one in their Holiday collection. Other favorites are Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Chocolate Shimmer Ink (there are several other shimmery options) and the liquid liner from Urban Decay. They have several interesting colors and the look of an ultra thin glittery line just at the lash base can work for just about everyone, even if you only dare to go there at night.
Lips are easy. I actually find that matte lips can be aging (not to mention require more work than I'm willing to do on a daily basis). As long as we avoid the goopy Paris Hilton look, I think we're safe with just about any good lipstick or gloss. Once again, it's hard to go wrong with Bobbi Brown (including the new Glitter Lip Balm. I'm serious), but just about every brand from Chanel and Dior to your favorite drugstore pick-me-up. For evening, I'm especially fond of YSL Golden Gloss: Golden Pralin for a nude look and Golden Plum for some serious sex appeal.
The safest choice for shimmer, though, is nail color. Here one can experiment a lot more. After all, it's not on our faces, right?
I'd still avoid the heavy glitters, but that's a personal choice. I don't wear blue or black polish, either. My mother's signature nail color is a pearly peach. She changes the brand frequently but never the look. I don't think I ever saw her with a satiny nail color (or in red, for that matter). I used to love the Anna Sui nail lacquers that are now nearly impossible to find (some online discounters still have some). The new OPI for Sephora line includes several interesting ones (and also some really atrocious colors) and Zoya has a huge selection of metallic colors. Another personal favorite is Lippmann Collection. While I'd skip the new limited edition Superstar (copper glitter. A bit too much for me), Brown Eyed Girl is a perfect chocolate shimmer, and Pump Up The Jam is a purplish glimmer.
I think the point is that you can wear something shiny at every age. The key is a light hand, a good quality product and, of course, focusing on just one area and wearing matte colors everywhere else.
How do you feel about all that glitters? What wouldn't you wear? Do you think there's an age limit for shiny things?
Last week I reviewed Chanel Facette D'Or highlighting powder, which is a (very) subtly glittery finishing face product. The other day I realized that I'm getting a similar shimmery effect from an old favorite, Guerlain Terracotta bronzer. While its purpose is different and I still use a touch of powder over it, when it comes to a glowy touch, Terracotta is actually my favorite of the two. Which leads me to including bronzers or even blushes with a touch of shimmer in the list of age-appropriate options, as long as they're lightly applied. Personally, I'd avoid the popular Nars blushes (and Orgasm has never worked for me in all its weird orange glory), as they're just too much, but if you have a favorite item, don't bury it at the bottom drawer (any recommendations?).
If there's one area in the face we really want to shine, it's the eyes. There are endless textures and options for highlighting eye shadow (often referred to as "wash" in SA and makeup artist speak). Basically, it's the light shimmery color you apply under the brow and "opens up the eye". While Nars is famous for super pigmented, super shiny eye shadows, I find most of them over-the-top and not morning friendly. Many of the Chanel quads are also too much (though the singles are highly recommended), and I found the Smoky Eye set verging on unwearable for me (I do have a great alternative for this look. Stay tuned).
My choice in this category is Bobbi Brown. Her shimmers are elegant (though some are too light for my skin) and the metallics are velvety and perfect. All of them are office-friendly and quite fool-proof. No complicated application technique needed.
The other option for sparkly eyes comes in the form of shimmery eye liners. Here you can be a little bolder, because you apply a small amount and only cover very little skin, but the result is always pretty. Lancome Artliner comes in several pearly colors (I still miss Socialite, a limited edition metallic taupe from a couple of years ago) and there's a new one in their Holiday collection. Other favorites are Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Chocolate Shimmer Ink (there are several other shimmery options) and the liquid liner from Urban Decay. They have several interesting colors and the look of an ultra thin glittery line just at the lash base can work for just about everyone, even if you only dare to go there at night.
Lips are easy. I actually find that matte lips can be aging (not to mention require more work than I'm willing to do on a daily basis). As long as we avoid the goopy Paris Hilton look, I think we're safe with just about any good lipstick or gloss. Once again, it's hard to go wrong with Bobbi Brown (including the new Glitter Lip Balm. I'm serious), but just about every brand from Chanel and Dior to your favorite drugstore pick-me-up. For evening, I'm especially fond of YSL Golden Gloss: Golden Pralin for a nude look and Golden Plum for some serious sex appeal.
The safest choice for shimmer, though, is nail color. Here one can experiment a lot more. After all, it's not on our faces, right?
I'd still avoid the heavy glitters, but that's a personal choice. I don't wear blue or black polish, either. My mother's signature nail color is a pearly peach. She changes the brand frequently but never the look. I don't think I ever saw her with a satiny nail color (or in red, for that matter). I used to love the Anna Sui nail lacquers that are now nearly impossible to find (some online discounters still have some). The new OPI for Sephora line includes several interesting ones (and also some really atrocious colors) and Zoya has a huge selection of metallic colors. Another personal favorite is Lippmann Collection. While I'd skip the new limited edition Superstar (copper glitter. A bit too much for me), Brown Eyed Girl is a perfect chocolate shimmer, and Pump Up The Jam is a purplish glimmer.
I think the point is that you can wear something shiny at every age. The key is a light hand, a good quality product and, of course, focusing on just one area and wearing matte colors everywhere else.
How do you feel about all that glitters? What wouldn't you wear? Do you think there's an age limit for shiny things?
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