Summer Feature 2012: Summer Days

Happy Be-lated Canada Day to all my Canadian readers and Happy 4th of July to all my American readers! As usual, life is busy and I'm trying to fit in posts where I can. We're off to BC this Friday so I apologize for the lack of posting! 

It's an oven in Toronto which means summer has really arrived. Here are some pretty things keep you cool and looking lovely this summer!

• mark Easy Going Maxi Dress: I'm not too keen on my legs and hate to show them (hi, body issues!). Maxi skirts and dresses have become my new summertime BFF. They are a summer essential. I LOVE this tribal inspired maxi from mark by Avon. Isn't it pretty? It's perfect for walks in the city or taking a stroll on the boardwalk. The straps are adjustable and the bustline has an elastic waist so the fit is great. When it's cooler, I love pairing this with a cropped jean jacket. It works with flats or wedge sandals. 
• mark Fit to Print Reversible Beach Bag: How fun is this beach bag? It's the perfect tote for anything really. You can use it for shopping, as a gym bag, or like how I use it - as a diaper bag! It fits everything I need. And when you want something more nautical, reverse the bag. The blue and white stripes will pump up any outfit. 
• mark Triple Sparkle Necklace: Lately, I've been really into simple jewelry that I can wear everyday. This trio of goldtone, silvertone, and hematite spheres adds a little sparkle to your basic tees or tanks. I love layering this with other necklaces. It's become one of my faves!
• mark Pretty Stellar Ring: If you swell and get bloated from the heat like I do, you'll appreciate this adjustable gorgeous turquoise ring from mark. The band is stretchy so you can wear it on any finger you desire. Love! 
• L'Oreal Paris Colour Riche Balm in Pink Satin: Tinted lip balm lipsticks are all the rage right now and are so easy to wear on a super hot day. This one from L'Oreal is Dior's cheaper lil' sister, but L'Oreal's has an SPF 15. The packaging is very similar with its pink case. The line does offers more shades than Dior's, but L'Oreal's pigment is more sheer. If you want to save, you will like L'Oreal's version. Pink Satin is a very sheer light pink. If you have more pigment on your lips this shade won't really show. I'd go with the darker shades if you want more colour. 

Products were sent for editorial consideration and I truly love them!

Summer Feature 2012: Beach Love

There are certain things that have to be apart of my summer - traveling, BBQ (foodie over here!), and Bob Marley. Warm, sunny weather brings on so many possibilities so you need to be prepared for any situation. If you're a sun lover and like to spend your days chilaxing on the beach, here are a list of my must-have beach essentials!

• la Vie en Rose Tankini in Saffron: I don't know if I've met any woman who LOVES bathing suit shopping (and if you do then grr). If the search for the perfect swimsuit has been a painful one, go visit la Vie en Rose for a variety of styles for all shapes at reasonable prices. If you've been on the Tangerine Tango tip, you'll love this one! Ok, so I'm not in my 20's anymore and have had 2 kids which means things sit a little differently (ok I'll blame it also on my lack of exercise). Tankinis may seem a little "mature" but they are a belly-conscious girl's BFF. I love this one from la Vie en Rose. It gives you support in the bust area and hides that not-so-tight tummy. The simple design yet bold shade will have you looking fab while laying under the sun. 
• la Vie en Rose Bottoms with Side String: The side strings on the matching bottoms give the entire look a younger, trendier feel (plus you can loosen a bit more if it's feeling a bit snug on the hips). And if you've got a lil' booty goin' on, the bottoms are full coverage! 
• Vichy Captial Soleil SPF 30 Luxurious Protective Oil: Want to make your bod look sexy and still be protected from the skin? I'm loving this protective sun oil from Vichy. I've had issues in the past with other SPF products giving me rashes, but so far so good! What I like to do is spray in my hands, then rub onto my skin. This way I know I'm covering all areas properly. The texture feels pretty silky, but for some might feel heavy for everyday. Your skin will look radiant though! It's perfect for lazing around at the beach. Keep in mind, it's not waterproof so you'll need to reapply. If you plan to use it on the face, spray into your hands first then apply on the face. If you burn easily, you something with a higher SPF. 
• YSL La Laque Couture in Corail Colisee: I am loving YSL's new line of La Laque polishes! The shades are so bold and lovely. They are a cream finish and apply perfectly with little streaking. And the wear-time is really good. I wore one in Paris and it lasted for almost the 11 days. The brush is a little different than I'm used to, but I actually like it. It has a rounder edge and is wide which is perfect for my wide nail beds. Corail Colisee is a juicy, tangerine coral. It's a beautiful shade especially against tanned skin.  

• Dior Addict Lip Balm in Crystal Coral: I LOVE tinted lip balms. I am never without one. When I first saw Crystal Coral in the tube, it didn't really excite me. But one swipe and now I'm in love. It's the perfect mix of coral with a hint of pink shimmer. It's so gorgeous and is always in my purse. It's my go-to lippie right now for easy-breezy sunshine fun! Lip balms with an SPF irritate my lips, but if you need sun protection I recommend using a clear balm with SPF then applying this on top. I love the moisturizing texture and the shade is sheer but still very noticeable. Would I purchase again? I love Dior lip products, but at $30 for a tinted balm it's a bit absurd. Why do I have to have such expensive taste?? Anything Dior are splurge items for me so get this when you feel like a luxurious makeup treat! 

• Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray: This is on my need-to-get list right now. I tried this from a friend of mine and I kind of need to have it now. Like sushi (talking about food again!), it's an acquired taste. Call me crazy, but I love it when my hair is a little crazy and curly in the summer. I don't even mind the frizz because it makes those wavy styles look effortless. I like to go a little boho-chic in the summer, so beachy hair is where it's at. If you've frolicked in the ocean before, then you're familiar with the voluminous, sexy texture the salt water gives you. Surf Spray is salt-water in a bottle but with some nourishing ingredients to give back some moisture. To avoid over doing it and making your hair feel too sticky or dirty, spray it in your hands first then work it into the ends. Your waves and curls will last all day! 
• Make Up For Ever Aqua Shadow in 26E: Gimme! Gimme! Anything that is sweat-proof or water-proof is an all around summer essential whether you're at the beach, poolside, or at the cottage. I've been a fan of MUFE's Aqua Creams so I'm thrilled they came out with a pencil version. When you're on the run, these are definitely more convenient and they are so portable! They are easy to apply - just rub on the lids and blend with a brush or your finger! They set pretty fast so you have to blend rather quickly. Lasting power is amazing and they are fabulous under powder shadows. Surprisingly, I don't think I own a shade like this at least not anymore. It kind of reminds me of MAC's Expensive Pink with less gold and more of a pink finish. 26E is a beautiful metallic peach-pink. The finish almost looks like a duo-chrome. I'm so in love with this shade. On my undertone, I seem to bring the pink undertones out. A lot of splash in the water or catching a few rays on the beach won't make this shadow budge! 

• mark The Last Straw Hat: I love me a sexy hat especially to hide my bed head. Can I tell you how many mornings I have thrown on a hat to drop off my son at the bus?? To give you even more protection from the sun, a hat (and I'm not talking about a baseball cap) will keep those harsh rays from sucking out your youth! I love this floppy one from mark by Avon (but not liking the price - I don't think I've ever paid that much for a hat!). 

What are your beach essentials? 

Products were sent for editorial consideration (except Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray) and I truly love them! 

Makeup Junkie Loves...mark. Spring Accessories!

After makeup, my next loves are definitely jewelry, purses, and shoes. Accessories really complete your whole look. They are also a fun way to make an old outfit look new again. I'm kinda over winter, but then again did we really have a winter (I'm not complaining)? In any case, planning a spring/summer wardrobe is much more exciting. If you haven't thought of shopping mark. by Avon for accessories, you might want to add them to your list of faves. They have a lot of pretty baubles and of-the-moment trends that are fairly inexpensive. Check out my list of Spring favourites from mark.!

1. mark. Don't Leaf Me This Way Necklace ($24 CAD): Can you believe this was a real life at one point? Why you'll want this: no two are exactly alike! A delicate process reduces the leaf to its veins and edges before a coat of copper is applied to help strengthen and preserve those unique lines. It's such a simple and easy piece to wear and will look perfect with this Spring's sheer tops and dresses. 

2. Rebecca Minkoff Delight Bag for mark. ($70 CAD): Yes, that's right - this rockin' silver studded bag is by the amazing designer, Rebecca Minkoff. I'm a huge fan of her handbag collection so I was super stoked to receive one! If you can't afford her purses, this is a much affordable option and it doesn't skimp on the quality or design. It is a perfect sized, studded faux leather bag featuring a demi chain link strap that can be tucked inside and used as a clutch. It's described as a "classic everyday bag, but with a twist". It also features her signature key clip inside so you won't have to fumble for your keys like I do! I adore it. I love wearing across the body and as a clutch but you can also adjust to wear over the shoulder. It has a lot of room and compartments to hold your cell phone, business cards and other items. I was able to fit one of my hardcover books in it along with my wallet and other everyday items! If you love Rebecca Minkoff, it's a definite must-have! 

3. mark. Borrowed From The Boys Watch ($44 CAD): Ever since I saw one of the Olsen twins sporting a vintage Rolex, I loved the look. A man's watch on a woman's dainty arm just looks super chic  and timeless. A vintage Rolex will never be within my reach, but there are a tonne of boyfriend-inspired watches on the market to choose from in much more affordable prices. I love this goldtoned watch from mark. and the faux rhinestones bezel gives it a luxe feminine look. It really is a pretty watch - I got lots of compliments when I was working and all were shocked that it was from mark. In the above picture, it shows the mark. logo in the center but it's not on the actual watch. From an LBD to a classic white tee, a boyfriend style watch should be a staple in your wardrobe. 

4. mark. Show Off Ring ($20 CAD): Who doesn't love a fabulous cocktail ring? This pretty bauble will look lovely with a pretty floral frock or add a splash of colour to a basic outfit. I love that it's a stretch band so it will fit any finger size. Also available in fuchsia and lime green. 

All items are available March 2012. If you'd like to purchase these lovelies and you're in the Toronto area, contact Avon representative, Elaine from Toronto Beauty Reviews, and visit her Facebook page and From Elaine Next Door blog to keep up with the latest Avon and mark. launches!

www.meetmark.com

Products were sent for editorial consideration and I truly love them. 

Save Your Skin: Body

Save Your Skin: Body by makeupjunkie13 on polyvore.com

Life has been crazy the last couple of weeks, but crazy in a good way! Well, it's time to get back to gabbing about beauty again! I will have to update you on all the awesome things I've been up to but that will have to wait for another post. 

Now where did we leave off? In my last post, it was all about saving the skin on your face but we can't forget your body!

Give your skin some lovin' this winter with some of my latest faves!

1. Korres Guava Shower Gel ($22 CAD): I'm not really a shower gel person, but you might as well start it right. I'll use a body scrubs and the such, but shower gels I usually just pass on. This one, however, I could not pass on because - well - it's Korres! I'm already a fan of the Guava Lip Butter so it was a given that I would love the shower gel too. The scent is just lovely and not overwhelming at all. It has a creamy texture and leaves your skin feeling hydrated and smooth. At $22, consider this a luxurious shower gel but the size is larger than the average shower gel at 400 ml. 

2. Korres Jasmine Body Butter ($33 CAD): I have body butters in every corner of my room - one on my vanity, one on my nightstand, and a few in my makeup bins. Korres body butters feel ah-mazing on the skin. It applies very rich and creamy but doesn't leave a greasy feeling behind. My skin feels moisturized for hours. Jasmine is a light flowery scent and thankfully doesn't conflict with the Guava shower gel. The size is very decent and comes in a squeeze tube which I prefer. I definitely want to add more to my collection especially the Guava one!

3. Biotherm Beurre Corporel Intensive Moisturizing Body Butter ($37 CAD): Don't be fooled by the simple packaging. I was pleasantly surprised I would love this so much. Ok, I don't particularly like dipping my fingers, but it's just so creamy and smells citrus-y divine. My boys love it every time I wear this - the scent is very comforting. Oh and yes, my skin feels wonderfully soft! It helps restore hydration into the skin overtime. A little goes a long way so this tub will last you a while - at least until the flowers start blooming again!

4. George's Special Dry Skin Cream ($6.49 - 14.99 CAD): You know the term "don't judge a book by its cover"? This applies here. I love hearing stories about skin care lines that were whipped up in their very own kitchen. It's probably a product I would pass in the store, but thankfully I was able to test drive this cream. This stuff really works especially for severely dry skin conditions. George's products do not contain Urea, Lanolin, or Parabens and are specifically made to be hypoallergenic and fragrance free. I've talked about my son's eczema before and this is the only cream I've been using on him for the last few months. It has replaced all other creams I've used. His skin has been eczema-free and we haven't had to use his medicated cream once. I also use this on my dry, cracked heels and hands - works wonders! It feels greasy when first applied but quickly absorbs into the skin. 

Korres is available at Shoppers Drug Mart and Sephora locations across Canada. George's Cream is available at Loblaws and Shoppers Drug Mart locations across Canada. 

What do you use to save your skin from the harsh winter? 

Products were sent for editorial consideration and I truly love them. 

Makeup 101: The 5 Minute Face

Mornings are harsh (and yet I'm up after midnight writing this!). There's just not enough time in the day to do everything I want to accomplish. My day starts in the wee morning and it ends in the wee morning. You'd think spending half the morning in a drowsy state and getting sick would teach me a lesson.

Being able to put makeup on or style my hair is a luxury these days with two little ones. Applying my makeup in a matter of minutes is a must! Here are the products I currently use on a daily to look fresh faced and somewhat presentable in 5 minutes!

The 5 Minute Face by makeupjunkie13 on polyvore.com

Top Row:

Garnier BB Cream Miracle Skin Perfector ($19.99 CAD): You'd have to be hiding under a rock if you haven't heard about the latest craze in beauty. BB Creams, a beauty secret from Asia, is now hitting North America. What is a BB cream and why all the buzz? BB creams is an all-in-one skin perfecting product that  combines skincare with makeup. Some are even made to improve acne overtime. 

I first learned of it when my brother's girlfriend from Korea was visiting us. She said she loved because it improved the overall appearance of her skin and lightened her skin too. Making my skin lighter really didn't appeal to me so I brushed it off not really thinking it would make its way here. 

Brands like Garnier have included all the skin nourishing properties minus the skin lightening ingredients. I've heard Marcelle's is really good and I tested Estee Lauder's version. I found it to be drying for my skin and the shade was too light. I've been testing out Garnier's for a few weeks now and so far I'm liking it. Here's what I like about it: evens out my skin tone, diffuses my wrinkles and fine lines, makes my skin look radiant, and is ultra moisturizing. It also has sun protection. It's a cinch to put on especially if you're in a hurry!

The shade I received is medium-dark. It seems to match me pretty well, but it has a slight pink undertone. After it sets, it just looks like my skin. The coverage is like that of a tinted moisturizer. I'm not really sure what sets it apart from some TM's that also offer anti-aging ingredients, SPF, and coverage. Possibly BB creams offer higher anti-aging ingredients? All in all, I really love how my skin looks after. I get decent coverage in a matter of seconds. Available January 2012. 

Smashbox Photo Op Under Eye Brightener ($18 USD): A staple! An eye brightener and concealer all in one. Read my full review here. 

Anastasia Brow Duality ($23 USD): A multi-purpose highlighter for brows, eyes, cheekbones, and even the top of your lips! I like to wear this in the inner corner for a brightening effect. Read my full review here. 

Shu Uemura Eye Lash Curler ($26 CAD): I never go a day without this! This lash curler gives my lashes the most perfect curl. 

L'Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes Waterproof Mascara ($12 CAD): For the longest time I was using Covergirl LashBlast Waterproof Mascara, then I moved on to various ones from L'Oreal to Maybelline to some high end ones. The drugstore near me had a sale on L'Oreal mascaras so I picked up this one. I hadn't really heard reviews for it but I picked it up anyways. It's a great waterproof mascara with minimal smudging. I'm able to get my lashes full and long with lots of curl (waterproof mascara is the only thing that can curl these straight lashes). The only downside, not a huge one, is that my lashes look crunchy and hard rather than soft and fluttery. 

tarte Amazonian Clay Waterproof Liner ($18 USD): Finally an eyeliner that actually doesn't smudge! For subtle definition I like to smudge underneath my top lash line very close to the base of my lashes. Read my full review here. 

Bottom Row: 

Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm in Pink Blossom ($7.99 CAD): Tinted lip balms are the easiest lip products to wear. You get a little colour and it hydrates at the same time. I love Burt's Bees tinted lip balms. They are inexpensive and give just enough colour. Pink Blossom is a soft pink, but surprisingly it really shows on the lips! I think it's the perfect shade of pink - not too red and not too pale. I also love Tiger Lily for a peachy nude lip. Read my full review here. 

Korres Cherry Picked Cherry Oil Lip Gloss ($17 USD): When I want a little glossy shine, I love wearing these glosses from Korres! For a pink nude lip, I like layering Light Purple 23 over top of Burt's Bees Pink Blossom. Read my full review here.

Becca Beach Tint: I think a flush of colour on the cheeks is the perfect perk-me-up. These lovelies don't budge and give the prettiest glow. Thanks to ebeauty.ca, I was able to add Guava, Grapefruit and Peach to my collection. Read my full review here. 

Benefit PosieTint ($36 CAD): I like to go between a few cheek tints and this is definitely one I reach for. Read my full review here. 

Revolution Organics Beauty Balm ($34 CAD): When I want a really dewy finish and when my skin is screaming for moisture I love dabbing these puppies on. For a really quick look, I use Bronzed on my eyes, cheeks and lips. I own all three in Blushed, Sunkissed, and Bronzed. Read my full review here. 

When you only have 5 minutes, what are your go-to products? 

Products were sent for editorial consideration (with the exception of the L'Oreal mascara and Shu Uemura lash curler) and I truly love them. 

La Vie en Rose Special 20% Off For Their Favourite Bloggers And Our Readers!

It's nice when brands show their appreciation for bloggers. Unlike magazines, most of us don't get paid to write about beauty products. We do it because we love it.

La Vie en Rose has created a special Blog Fan Facebook tab for bloggers and their readers to enjoy 20% off regular priced merchandise including all the new Christmas styles! It is exclusively on-line and for Canadian shoppers only (sorry to my U.S. and International readers!).

The promo will run now until November 12 so hurry and get your Christmas shopping started! I've had a special preview of their Christmas items - very cute stuff! To access the special promo, you must 'Like' the La Vie en Rose Facebook page to access the promo code. 

http://www.facebook.com/lavieenrose?sk=app_17291228946780

Enjoy! Thank you La Vie en Rose!

www.lavieenrose.com

Best of the Emmy's 2011

Best in Red: Red was clearly the colour of the night. After the 5th red dress I was kind of bored of the fashion choices. However, Lea Michelle in Marchesa and Kate Winslet in Elie Saab wore the red dress the best. The other red dresses had too much going on. The overall design of the Marchesa dress was simple, but the embellished shoulders and bare back added that elegant chic touch. Kate's dress hugged her curves beautifully and the deep v was just enough to make her stand out. 

 

Photo Source: justjared.com

Best Makeup: Glee star, Diane Aragon, knows how to rock a smokey eye. I thought the majority of women wore pretty yet simple makeup. Diane wasn't scared to step out of the neutrals and wore a blue smokey eye. It was also super hot on the red carpet, but you'd never know just by looking at Diane's makeup. No shine or melting makeup!

Best in Black: Choosing a black dress can be seen as playing it safe. Evan Rachel Wood's Elie Saab dress was anything but. If you're going to wear black why not add some sparkle? I love the embroidery on this dress and love the way Elie Saab dresses hug the body.

 

Photo Source: justjared.com

Best Emmy Moment: Melissa McCarthy winning her first emmy for Best Actress in a Comedy (Mike & Molly) was the moment of the night. Amy Poehler (love her!) walked up to the stage after her name was announced and all the nominees after followed suit. It was such a Miss America moment and was just hilarious to watch. Melissa McCarthy is such a doll and definitely deserved to win.

What were your "Best" choices of the night?

A Mother's Day Wish List

Happy soon-to-be Mother's Day! Ok, most moms are run-down, tired, and maybe a tad crazy, but being a mommy has its perks. Nothing beats little hugs and kisses, cute scribbles that are supposed to be you, and hearing "I love you - you're the best mommy (no joke my son says this to me on a daily basis!), but we get to be pampered and spoiled with gifts for one whole day all for being an awesome mom! Really, moms should be recognized everyday but I'll take what I can get.

I really don't expect much on Mother's Day - a good brunch with my boys and letting me do nothing is good enough. But...who doesn't like gifts? This is my wish list and hopefully you can get some ideas for the special moms in your life! 

Revolution Organics All-Over Body Balm ($28 CAD): As you can see, I don't have any makeup on my wish list at the moment - I know shocking! But right now, I have pretty much everything I could ever want. The All-Over Body Balm from Revolution Organics has been on my "Want" list for a while especially since I got pregnant. I was pleasantly surprised to receive it recently and it couldn't have come at a better time! My skin has been especially dry on my face and my belly has been getting the itchies due to this growing baby. I love that this comes in a portable stick - I throw it in my purse and I'm prepared for an itch attack anytime of the day. You can rub it straight out of the tube on anything from your head to your toes, that needs instant moisture. I love it and when we're out, I use it on my son who has eczema. It's all-natural and has a bunch of organic ingredients that help repair and hydrate the skin. It's the perfect gift for any mom-to-be or moms-on-the-go!

Parisian Chic: A Style Guide By Ines De La Fressange ($34 CAD): The idea of having a Kobo crossed my mind, but the truth is I love keeping original books. I found out about this book from Stephanie of BlushPretty and I knew I had to have it. I love little books like this especially since I have a love affair with anything Parisian (weird since I haven't even traveled there yet - insert sad face). If you've always wondered about the mystic behind Parisian women's effortless beauty, model Ines De La Fressange shares the well-kept secrets of fashion, decor, beauty and much more! You will love the photography and her charming sketches. Who doesn't love receiving books? Top it off with TIME to actually read it and this gift is golden!

Valentino Cat-Eye Tortoise Sunglasses ($250 USD): I did makeup for an event at my best friend's optical the other day and absolutely fell in love with these shades! Cat-eye shaped sunglasses may not seem like a classic shape, but this one really works for the roundness of my face. I especially loved the little "v" cut-out detail on the sides of the glasses. Besides eye cream, a pair of good shades will keep your eyes protected from the sun this summer and keep wrinkles at bay!

Maxi Dresses: I found this one on Motherhood Maternity, but it's not necessarily the one I want. I figure with the hot summer and my prego belly, a maxi dress will look stylish, be easy to throw on, and most importantly keep me cool. I really dislike a lot of maternity clothes, so I will be shopping around and will most likely buy regular clothes in Large. I seriously need to stock up on dresses asap! What mom doesn't like a shopping spree? A sure winner!

What are your must-get items for the special moms in your life? For all the moms out there, what's on your 'want' list?

Revolution Organics All-Over Body Balm was sent for editorial consideration and I truly love it.

Milan FW F/W 2011 Beauty: Giorgio Armani Trend Report

Milan FW F/W 2011 Giorgio Armani

An image that suggests a world of dreams; dreams that evoke tales of passion.The Giorgio Armani woman is dressed with soft pink make-up. Directly inspired by the soft pink tones from the Giorgio Armani collection, Linda Cantello re-interprets boudoir playing with light and shadow. Focusing on graphic eyes, more than make-up she creates illusion.

 

Milan FW F/W 2011 Giorgio Armani

 

"A new femininity a contrast between soft satiny dusty pinks on eyes, lips and cheekbones, with a new contemporary take on eyeliner, two black parallel lines worn under the eyes as opposed to on top. Strength and softness. A sensual new vision for woman." Linda Cantello

Photos provided by Giorgio Armani Cosmetics.

If I Had To Choose...Oscar Favourites

I wasn't planning on watching the Oscars in its entirety, but all the hype about James Franco and Anne Hathaway presenting peeked my interest. The youngest presenters to ever host the Oscars - pretty big deal. Not that I know, but I can imagine hosting a show as big as the Oscars isn't an easy thing. That being said, I kind of feel sorry that they bombed so bad! Wow, awkward much? It was so uncomfortable watching them host - no chemistry at all. Where James lacked in charisma, Anne sure did make up for it - a little too much. But she redeemed herself with her 8 gorgeous outfit changes. My favourite were here sparkling shoes she wore with the man tux - oh and her shimmering lashes! Love!

As for the red carpet fashion, I was a little disappointed that most stars decided to tone it down for the Oscars. It seems like by the end of award season all the effort was just gone. But there were a few stunners and repeat favourites.

Best Dressed:

Natalie Portman in Rodarte

Natalie definitely represented us prego ladies! Of all the award shows, this gorgeous eggplant Rodarte number was my fave. The dress just draped beautifully on her and overall she was just glowing! Let me tell you - I went out this past weekend trying to find a dress for a wedding that wouldn't make me look like a tent. It was hard, but I finally found one that fit in all the right places!

Runner Ups: 

Mila Kunis in Elie Saab Haute Couture

Jennifer Lawrence in Calvin Klein

I loved both the looks from Mila Kunis and Jennifer Lawrence. The vintage lace detail of Mila's Elie Saab dress was amazing!! I also loved the lilac colour which really stood out on the red carpet. The vintage feel of her hair and soft makeup were perfect.

Jennifer Lawrence on the other hand was the complete opposite. Simple, chic and effortless. From the top up it may remind you of Pamela Anderson from Baywatch but this dress just worked for her. It was young, hip, and fit her body so well. Super sexy without looking slutty - hard balance in Hollywood! 

 Hailee Steinfeld in Marchesa

Love seeing a 14 year old look like a 14 year old! Hailee, America's new sweetheart, looked darling in this Marchesa gown. She looked like a princess ballerina - so girly and soft. Up and coming young starlets - take note!

Halle Berry in Marchesa

Another Marchesa favourite, this is probably my favourite look of hers of all the award shows this season. Plus, it's Halle Berry - put a garbage bag on her and she would rock it! She's just stunning. That. Is. All. 

Most Improved:

Michelle Williams in Chanel

I am so glad Michelle turned in her over-sized daisies for this sleek number from Chanel. She looked great, but is it just me or is she super awkward in interviews? Probably best to lay off the Xanax!

Who were your Oscar favourites? What did you think of the show? Hit or miss?

Photo source: JustJared.com

NYFW F/W 2011 Beauty: Trend Report: Elie Tahari

NYFW F/W 2011 Elie Tahari

The runway beauty look for Elie Tahari was very reminiscent of a porcelain doll. Kimberly Soane for Bobbie Brown played up the look with luminescent cheeks, plush rosy lips, and barely-there shadow.  Even the hair--a sleek center part pulled into a low ponytail--reinforced this play on minimalist chic.  Esther Langham for Moroccan Oil finished off the locks with a few spritzes of shine spray for a glossy, polished look.

NYFW F/W 2011 Elie Tahari

 NYFW F/W 2011 Elie Tahari

 NYFW F/W 2011 Elie Tahari

 NYFW F/W 2011 Elie Tahari

Photos provided by beautypress.com. 

NYFW F/W 2011 Beauty: Trend Report: Badgley Mischka Makeup

NYFW F/W 2011 Badgley Mischka

Tom Pecheux for MAC Cosmetics created a 40's Hollywood glam makeup look (with some edge, of course), using black and silver metallic shades on the eyes. Eyebrows were defined, cheeks were contoured and lips were a lighter shade of red.

NYFW F/W 2011 Badgley Mischka

 NYFW F/W 2011 Badgley Mischka

Photos provided by beautypress.com.

NYFW F/W 2011 Beauty: Trend Report: Anna Sui

NYFW F/W 2011 Anna Sui

At Anna Sui, 60s-mod makeup and big, retro hair complemented the Boho chic style of the Fall 2011 collection. Pat McGrath for CoverGirl traced a bold dark line into the crease of the eye and applied white eyeliner on the inner bottom lids for a wide-eye effect. Cheeks were flushed with a hint of color and lips were neutral and glossy. Garren for René Furterer amped up the volume or the hair, heightening the back of the crown for a retro look.

NYFW F/W 2011 Anna Sui

 NYFW F/W 2011 Anna Sui

 NYFW F/W 2011 Anna Sui

 NYFW F/W 2011 Anna Sui

Photos provided by beautypress.com.

NYFW F/W 2011 Beauty: Trend Report: Nanette Lepore

NYFW F/W 2011 Nanette Lepore 

Nanette Lepore's Fall 2011 beauty looks played up the ethereal whimsy of her collection. James Kaliardos from MAC augmented the look by opting for a naked face save for a bright red lip and frosty eye accents.  The hair-- crafted by James Pecis for Morrocanoil--was a messy take on the french braid with intentionally haphazard sections pinned back.

 NYFW F/W 2011 Nanette Lepore 

NYFW F/W 2011 Nanette Lepore 

NYFW F/W 2011 Nanette Lepore 

NYFW F/W 2011 Nanette Lepore 

NYFW F/W 2011 Nanette Lepore 

Photos provided by beautypress.com.

NYFW F/W 2011 Beauty: Trend Report: L.A.M.B.

NYFW F/W 2011 L.A.M.B.

Despite the fact that there were six different beauty and hair looks coming down the street-gang inspired L.A.M.B. runway, the one commonality that all seemed to share was that the bigger and fiercer, the better. Hair by Danilo spanned the gamut from bouffants tucked behind lady-like head scarves, dramatically side-swept bangs, oversized buns, theatrical extensions, and an array of headpieces. The different beauty looks done by Charlotte Willer for Maybelline New York was as equally fierce with inky eyeliner, strong brows, pops of electric turquoise, thick cat eyes, and shimmery eye accents all toned down with a neutral lip.

NYFW F/W 2011 L.A.M.B. 

 NYFW F/W 2011 L.A.M.B. 

 NYFW F/W 2011 L.A.M.B. 

 NYFW F/W 2011 L.A.M.B. 

 NYFW F/W 2011 L.A.M.B. 

 NYFW F/W 2011 L.A.M.B. 

 NYFW F/W 2011 L.A.M.B. 

Photos provided by beautypress.com.