Oops...My Bad

Life has been crazy busy for your resident beauty junkie. With all that I've got going on, I am a wee bit behind on my posts. Please accept my apologies. Believe me, I wish I could give you all of the beauty reviews and news that you crave...I really do. But juggling my real job, joining the gym, and community service doesn't leave me much spare time - and I've been spending most of that sleeping and doing laundry.

I'm getting better at this time management thing, so look for regular posts to resume very soon...and be sure to check back tomorrow for another insanely fabulous giveaway!!!

I hope you've been enjoying my In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaways. Don't know what I'm talking about? Go check it out...you don't know what you've been missing!

In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway: Are You The Winner of the Work Bag?

Happy Monday, my pretties. I hope that everyone had a fun and relaxing weekend.

The time has come to announce the winner of the Aleya New York bag. As always, I wish I had more than one to give away. Hell, I wish I had an extra one for myself because the bag is just that gorgeous! But I only have the one, and it is reserved for Katie Gardini!!!

Katie has won the Allie Hobo in Natural, which was featured in Henri Bendel's exotic event and has been one of Aleya’s best sellers for spring/summer; the patchwork detail is very trend current, but the natural colors keep it wearable. Katie has also won a Goody Mosaic Ouchless Purse Brush and Mosaic Mini Versa Comb, Neutrogena Healthy Volume Mascara, Neutrogena MoistureShine Soothing LipSheers, Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets, and a DentaBurst “Be Ready To Shine” Kit.

For those of you who didn’t win, but still need a little Aleya in your lives…Joann Padilla, the creative genius behind Aleya New York, is offering you a 25% discount on your next purchase. At checkout, just enter the code Spoiledpretty6/08 in the special instruction box – and you’re all set!

Many thanks to Aleya New York, Clean & Clear, DentaBurst, Goody, and Neutrogena for sponsoring such a fabulous giveaway! And if you haven’t done so already, make sure that you enter the other In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaways:

Lug Gym Bag Giveaway – ends 6/30
Creations By Kage Everyday Bag Giveaway – ends 7/1
Elezar Eco-Friendly Bag Giveaway – ends 7/2
Felix Rey Clutch Giveaway – ends 7/3
BOYY Weekender Bag Giveaway – ends 7/4
Envirosax Beach Bag Giveaway – ends 7/5

Declare Your Independence!

July 4th is almost here! That means it's time to celebrate with fireworks and BBQs. But don't forget to put your best face forward!

Patriotism has never looked so beauty-full. This Fourth of July, Sephora is pledging its allegiance to America by offering the greatest beauty essentials for the greatest country! Whether it is a red lipstick that you desire, a white liner, or a blue nail polish that strikes your fancy, Sephora has it all.

Celebrate this Fourth of July with these patriotic picks:

• Sephora Brand Atomic Volume Mascara ($16) – Declare freedom from smudging with this mega-volume, conditioning mascara.
  
• Sephora Brand Flashy Waterproof Liner ($8) – Forget the fireworks –light up your eyes with one of these shimmering, metallic liners. And don't be afraid to try a white eyeliner! Read my older entry here about white liners.
  
• Kat Von D for Sephora Painted Love Lipstick ($18) – The rocket’s red glare won’t be able to compete with these smoldering shades! These colors are very pretty and have crazy names. I am partial to Lolita.
  
• Sephora Brand Nail Patch ($10) – These stick-on nail patches offer the perfect manicure with zero drying time. I can't wait to try these! They currently only have 4 shades, but I still want to give these a test run.
  
• Sephora Brand Bubble Bath ($16) – In Guava Passion, Coconut Crème, or Riviera Blue, this sparkling bubble bath is a glamorous way to relax after the festivities. I have Riviera Blue body cream and I adore it. Yummy!
  

Have a beautiful and safe 4th on Friday!

Experts Weigh in on Summer 08's Make-up Trends

Makeup is a virtue when correctly used, otherwise it can lead to a range of skin problems that could include dryness, blotchiness and premature aging of the skin. We asked skin experts to help you make the best use of your traincase without compromising on the health of your skin.

Fresh, healthy skin is a prerequisite to any makeup regime. To achieve this, a number of measures must be undertaken on a regular basis. Meeta Awatramani, Training Manager of Clarins India, agrees, “It is important to prepare your skin for makeup or it can lead to issues such as foundation buildup.” She also emphasizes that moisturizing is key, as is starting your regime with clean skin that has no free radicals.
Meeta recommends: Clarins HydraQuench Cream

Even as makeup and skincare have benefited from the advent of new and beneficial technology, the adage of “cleanse-tone-moisturize” still holds true, but with a slight difference. Nancy Woo, Regional Training Director, Shiseido, tells us how, “Instead of a toner, use a softener that provides the first layer of hydration before you actually use a moisturizer.” She also emphasizes on the fact that every woman must find the time to go for a professional facial at least once a month.
Nancy recommends: Shiseido The Skincare Hydro Nourishing Softener

Ideally, makeup must enhance your best features and diminish your flaws. However, certain other factors come into play as far as the application of makeup is concerned. Even as one is tempted to buy into every new trend in the market, it is important to put your skin before the trends. “Go for makeup that also has skincare benefits,” Nancy advises. Cream or emulsion foundation is kind to the skin and grants a smooth finish. When it comes to summer, a foundation that has an SPF of at least 30 is desirable.
Nancy recommends: Shiseido Extra Smooth Sun Protection Lotion SPF 33 PA++

But as far as trends go this season, it’s all about experimentation. It heralds the return of a vintage-meets-fun 70s look. “Contrasting colors are in, as well as bright, effervescent tones,” she says. Vimi Joshi, Senior Artist, M.A.C speaks of a new trend, “Try using a kohl pencil in deep blue instead of black for a stunning effect.”
Vimi recommends: M.A.C Eye Kohl in Blooz

After a long day of work, or an endless night of partying, many women tend to hit the sack without removing their makeup. Nancy sounds the warning bell, “Women in their twenties are under a lot of stress—they’re at the beginning of their careers and lead a hectic life. It is important for them to correctly remove their makeup and also continually boost the vitality of their skin.”
Nancy recommends: Shiseido Pureness Refreshing Cleansing Sheets Oil-Free Alcohol-Free

Since the skin surrounding the eyes is more delicate, it is important to use a remover that is specifically designed for eye makeup.” She also advises using a serum or essence overnight. Vimi stresses on hydration, “If you spritz your face regularly, then just a hint of concealer and lip gloss can make you appear flawless.” Thus, the correct usage and skillful application of makeup can not only lend to a more beautiful appearance but also leave your skin glowing and healthy. So if you remember to follow the simple rules of preparation, application and removal, your skin will thank you for years to come.
Vimi recommends: M.A.C Fix +, M.A.C Select Moisturecover, M.A.C Tinted Lipglass

Color Palettes for the season

• For dusky skin: Be liberal with gold, especially with tones of orange and experiment with the vibrant green. Avoid silver, white and peach.
  Recs: M.A.C Eye Shadow in Amber Lights and Goldmine
  
  
• For wheatish skin: Experiment with shades of coral and rose pink. Since orange is the color of the season, go for makeup with peach undertones and a touch of kohl.
  Recs: M.A.C Eye Shadow in Sushi Flower and Sweet Lust
  
  
• For fair skin: A whole range of pinks—from baby pinks to bolder shades of fuchsia make a virtue of your complexion. Lilac is also a good color for you to try out this season.
  Recs: M.A.C Eye Shadow in Swish, Pink Venus, Post Haste, Beautiful Iris
  

It's all about the eyes this season
Those with deep set eyes should opt for vibrant colors or shimmery pinks and peaches (M.A.C Eye Shadows in Da Bling, Samoa Silk, Passionate) . If you have small eyes, enhance them with greens and golds adding a darker color at the crease to create the illusion of bigger eyes (M.A.C Eye Shadows in Humid, Goldmine, Gorgeous Gold). The light complexioned can lightly line their eyes with a light pink eye pencil for a fresh, wide-eyed look. (M.A.C Dual Edge Eye Pencil in Nighthawk/Frontrow)

In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway: Beach Bag

The weather forecast says 88 and sunny, not a cloud in the sky. After an exhaustive search, you’ve found the elusive “perfect” swimsuit. And you’ve picked out a trashy read, with no literary value whatsoever. So you’re ready for the beach, right? Wait. Not to burst your proverbial bubble, but you’re not all set yet.

A trip to the beach requires much more than a cute swimsuit. If you’re planning for a relaxing, idyllic day of surf and sand, you might want to put some serious thought into what you’ll pack in your bag. Because there’s nothing less relaxing than getting to the beach and realizing that you’ve left some important necessities at home.

To ensure that you’re pretty and prepared for your day at the beach, remember to bring along the following must-haves for your beach bag:

* Sunscreen: When selecting a sunscreen product, be sure to read the label before you buy. Experts recommend products with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. The SPF number represents the level of protection against UVB rays provided by the sunscreen…a higher number means more protection. The two most common (and painful) sunscreen mistakes are using too little and waiting too long to reapply. About 1 ounce of sunscreen (a palmful) should be used to cover the arms, legs, neck and face of the average adult. For best results, most sunscreens must be reapplied at least every 2 hours and even more often if you are swimming or sweating. Products labeled "waterproof" may provide protection for at least 80 minutes even when you are swimming or sweating. Products that are "water resistant" may provide protection for only 40 minutes. And don’t forget your lips, especially if you’re a lipgloss fanatic like me. Many dermatologists say that slathering on glosses can increase your risk of developing skin cancer because shiny nature of the gloss could be making the sun’s UV rays hit harder. So if you’re going to grab for a gloss, make it one with at least SPF 15.

* Wide-brimmed hat: A hat with at least a 2- to 3-inch brim all around is ideal because it protects areas often exposed to the sun, such as the neck, ears, eyes, forehead, nose, and scalp. A baseball cap is also a good choice. A hat not only protects from the sun's intense rays, it can also cover and tame wind-blown hair.

* Sunglasses: The ideal sunglasses don’t have to be expensive, but they should block 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB radiation. Check the label to be sure they do. Some labels may say, "UV absorption up to 400 nm." This is the same as 100% UV absorption. Also, labels that say "Meets ANSI UV Requirements" mean the glasses block at least 99% of UV rays. Those labeled "cosmetic" block about 70% of the UV rays. If there is no label, don't assume the sunglasses provide any protection. Large-framed and wraparound sunglasses are more likely to protect your eyes from light coming in from different angles.

Today is the final day of Spoiled Pretty’s In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway Week, and we’re giving away an Envirosax bag filled with treats!


Envirosax bags are lightweight, portable, waterproof, affordable, and stylish! With reinforced seams, each surprisingly large bag can hold at least 40 pounds, and the carrying handle is long enough to comfortably carry over your shoulder. The Flora line of Envirosax bags draws its inspiration from the colors and shapes of pristine Australian rainforests.

The winner’s bag will include:


Secret Flawless Antiperspirant/Deodorant: If you secretly crave strong wetness protection that smells fresh and has skin conditioners, your search is over. New Secret Flawless gives you everything you long for — all in one cutting-edge antiperspirant.


Cover Girl Lash Blast Mascara: Lash Blast's patented volume-boosting formula and patent-pending brush are designed to max-out each and every lash, leaving you with the ultimate big lash look.


Goody Mosaic Ouchless Purse Brush: The ultimate in snagless styling. This brush is smaller sized – perfect for travel or on the go styling.


Bath & Body Works Body Splash in Blushing Cherry Blossom: Cherry blossoms blended with lighthearted jasmine, rose juliette and crisp citrus capture the romantic first blush of spring. Other notes include mandarin, lush berries, fresh melon, musk, violet, and creamy Sandalwood. Contains naturally pampering aloe vera to leave skin conditioned.


Neutrogena MoistureShine Lip Soothers SPF 20 in Shine, Sheen, and Gleam: Provides instant, soothing relief on contact with beautiful high gloss shine and SPF 20. The unique hydragel formula contains conditioning botanicals and glycerin for intense moisturization. Carry this pocket-portable gloss with you for use whenever you want hydrated, beautiful lips.


Avon Skin-So-Soft Bug Guard: Don’t let bugs and sun spoil your outdoor fun this summer. Protect yourself from both the sun and certain insects with NEW Skin-So-Soft Bug Guard Plus IR3535 Expedition SPF 30. Using patented time-release technology, it creates an invisible barrier of protection to repel against mosquitoes, gnats, no-seeums, sand flies, and biting midges. certain insects. When applied properly, users are shielded with water-resistant SPF 30 sunscreen protection. Bug Guard Plus IR3535 Expedition SPF 30 is available in two versions - an unscented aerosol and a pump spray with a Gentle Breeze™ fragrance. The winner will receive both!


And because I’m feeling especially generous this week, four runners-up will receive an Envirosax Flora bag!

To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name. The subject line should read "Envirosax Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Saturday, July 5th. One winner and four runners-up will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Sunday, July 6th, I'll announce the winners names. Please, only one entry per person; duplicate entries will not increase your chances of winning. Contest is open to U.S. & Canadian residents only.

And be sure to check out the other bag giveaways. You can enter all of the giveaways, but you can only win once. Good luck!

P Diddy Does Bikini Waxes?

Think it takes you a long time getting ready to go out? You probably don't primp as long as Sean "P Diddy" Combs. But considering he's one of the most well-groomed gents in the business, it should come as no surprise. The media mogul recently sat down with the UK's Daily Mail for a piece entitled, How to... Party like P Diddy. Here's an excerpt:

I have my own particular ritual for getting ready, which takes about two hours, but before I settle on an outfit, I like to try on lots of different ones, and I'll have a long bath beforehand.
I may change twice in an evening and I'll always have a spare outfit on hand if something happens to the one I'm wearing.

The dress code for the Hollywood party was 'sexy formal', and I loved the outfit I eventually wore, which was a vintage white tuxedo jacket. I had a real 'black Sinatra' look going on. Otherwise, I like to wear things from my Sean John line.

My clothing line is like fashion Viagra. While I'm getting ready I like to relax with a drink – vodka and lemonade – and listen to my music, usually some James Brown.

Then I'll have a manicure and pedicure – and yes, I wax as well. Grooming's very important and men owe it to women to make sure they're well groomed.

I wax my privates. I'll also wear my fragrance, Unforgivable Black. You can tell a lot by a man's fragrance, and either you have good taste or you can smell like your grandfather. In everything I do, I visualise myself either putting clothes on or taking them off.

Source

Nudists: Get To Sephora For Your Skin Fix

NUDE Skincare is now available at Sephora!

NUDE is an eco-friendly skincare line that utilizes bio-technology to deliver clinically-proven anti-aging results. Created with biocompatible ingredients that can be effectively utilized by the skin and safely metabolized by the body, NUDE's range of skincare works to reduce premature aging, inflammation, and dehydration the same way organic and nutritious foods heal and nourish your body from the inside out. The packaging is made from 100% recyclable materials and the company is committed to sourcing fair trade or community-traded ingredients.

As an exfoliation enthusiast, I'm really excited to try their Facial Scrub...and I'm beyond anxious to test the Facial Cleansing Oil, a world-famous cleansing oil famed for effectively balancing both dry and oily skin.

Purchase products now at sephora.com. Or head on over to your local Sephora store - but call ahead to make sure the skincare line is on shelves.

Naughty Nauticals

Face: MAC Prep + Prime SPF50, MAC Studio Fix Fluid foundation in NC15, MAC Studio Finish concealer in NC15, PL Pure Luxury setting powder on T-Zone, MAC Dollymix blush

Eyes: MAC Bare Study as base, MAC Mutiny on inner lid, MAC Illegal Cargo on outer lid, MAC Rich Purple in crease, MAC Carbon to deepen the crease, essence Liquid Liner, CG Lash Blast mascara

Lips: MAC Ensign lustreglass

Where is Lydia?

I've been AWOL from blogging the past few days because, well....I needed a bit of a break from all things techy, including my beloved laptop. But fear not, I have PLENTY of blog topics planned out for the coming days, starting tomorrow.

So, tune back in and you'll learn all about:

• Getting ready for July 4th with red, white, and blue help from Sephora
• Mascara primer (what is it and why do you need it?)
  
• A new nail polish system that will make your nails polished and beautiful without the dreaded drying time
• Make-it-yourself mineral makeup
• An innovative tool for applying mineral makeup without the mess
• Shear Genius updates (get the winning look!)
  
• My favorite sunblocks for summer
• Fun, new lipstick
• My "desert island" makeup picks
• And much, much more!
  

As always, if you have a topic you'd like me to cover or a product you want me to check out, email me at asklydia@hotmail.com. See you tomorrow!

In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway: Weekender

Tis the for weekend getaways. But when you're packing for your summer sojourn, remember that you're going aways a weekend, not a lifetime. Yours truly has a penchant for overpacking... and as a repeat offender, I've picked up a few tips over the years. Here are a few to help lighten your load and travel like a pro:

* Don't choose a big bag for a trip that will only last a few short days. If you pick one that's too large, you'll be tempted to fill it up. Instead, select a small to mid-sized overnight bag and edit your list of trip essentials.

* Weekend getaways are all about breaking routines and doing something different and fun. When you think of your trip in these terms, you'll see that it's not necessary to bring all of the beauty products you typically use on a daily basis.

* When packing, consider your destination, the weather forecast, your planned activities, and the outfits that you'll be wearing. These factors will help to guide your beauty products choices.

* When it comes to products, think compact and efficient.

Today is day six of Spoiled Pretty's In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway Week. And - boy oh BOYY - do I have the bag for you!


The BOYY Pablo Summer Weekender is so chic that it makes you wanna schedule a trip every weekend, just so that you have more opportunities to show it off. The bag features a sand stripe linen body, whiskey leather box compartment and trim, waterproof lining, adjustable matching handles and shoulder strap, one inner zip pocket and two pouches. And the hand-painted dust bag can also be used as a tote!

One lucky winner will receive the Summer Weekender, filled with the following essentials:


Goody Mosaic Ouchless Purse Brush: The ultimate in snagless styling. This brush is smaller sized – perfect for travel or on the go styling.


Goody Mosaic Mini Versa Comb: This 3-in-1 comb is small enough to fit in your purse, but large enough to maintain your style.


Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets: These sheets absorb oil from the skin, effectively reducing shine - but without disrupting your makeup. They come in a slim, pop-up package for convenient access.


Clean & Clear SOFT In-Shower Facial: Provides a deep cleansing treatment to detoxify, smooth and soften young skin. The In-Shower Facial treatment is applied to skin while steam produced by the hot water allows the ingredients to deep cleanse pores while infusing moisture into the skin. The product is left on skin for one minute, then gently massaged into skin to exfoliate dead skin cells and extract impurities from pores. Skin is left feeling smooth and soft after just one minute.


Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes: These gentle, ultra soft cloths contain superior cleansing technology so effective it removes even waterproof mascara. With one step, it effectively dissolves all traces of dirt, oil and make-up. And it's gentle enough to use around the sensitive eye area, even for contact lens wearers.


Ojon mini TUNU Flexible Finishing Hairspray: This one-of-a-kind flexible hold finishing spray is formulated to add incredible fullness, control, and shine with a hold that allows the hair to still move naturally. It contains 100% pure wildcrafted Ojon oil, supported by clinical studies to instantly strengthen, hydrate and restore a healthy look and feel to dry, damaged hair. Plus a unique UV-inhibiting antioxidant complex stays in the hair to help protect color longer.


Tarte Lips Ahoy Lipgloss Set: For healthy, chic, on-the-go beauty, Lips Ahoy is the perfect little treasure. Packaged in a nautical pouch, these 4 mini double-ended, t5™ super fruit infused lipglosses with a water resistant formula leave you ready for smooth sailing!

To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name. The subject line should read "BOYY Weekender Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Friday, July 4th. One winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Saturday, July 5th, I'll announce the winner. Please, only one entry per person; duplicate entries will not increase your chances of winning. Contest is open to U.S. & Canadian residents only.

And be sure to check out the other bag giveaways. You can enter all of the giveaways, but you can only win once. Good luck!

Weekend Beauty Blog Network Reads

Melissa from The Makeup Divas reviews and shares photos of eye shadows and slimshines from the Mac Cool Heat Collection.

A Touch of Blusher looks at Dior's fall 2008 makeup collection.

Still confused about products that use the words NATURAL, ORGANIC and PURE on their packaging? Cybelesays discovers an organization that's setting a standard with their seal and some big indy brands are joining up.

Beauty Banter uncovers the most important sweatproof beauty products of the summer - a sweaty face is SO 2007!!! Are you ready for a Warm Chill?

Roselyn from Makeup Makes Me Happy™ is also raving about the latest collection from MAC Cosmetics. Here she gives us another wonderful makeup tutorial featuring the cool blue hues from MAC's Cool Heat.

Beauty Anonymous reviews La Mer The SPF 18 Fluid Tint.Get your summer beauty fix with The Daily Cookie's coverage of Nordstrom's Beauty Trend Show in 3 parts - Summer in the City, Get the Look, and All About the Tan!

15 Minute Beauty Fanatic finds her new favorite hot weather fragrance, Elizabeth Arden's Green Tea Lotus!

The Muse decides to saw her Urban Decay Primer Potion in half and make the most of it!.

Beyond Beauty Basics is having a Burt's Bees Radiance Kit Giveaway in honor of National Pollinator Week June 22-28. Comment and win an assortment of natural personal care products!

Makeup Moxie dishes on her favorite way to practice safe sun in this face sunscreen review.

Beauty Blogging Junkie tells you how to channel Gossip Girl's Serena van der Woodsen here.

The Fragrance Fanatic tells you some great ways to Wear Your Fragrance.

Beautiful Makeup Search picks out some products from the Shu Uemura 25th Boutique Birthday collection.

Come join The Life of a Ladybug's no!no! giveaway! All you have to do is enter your name and e-mail address and you have a chance to win a brand new no!no! hair removal device!

The fabulous ladies of Beauty in Real Life, have the details on the N.Y.C. Color Big Apple Bronze Summer Collection.

Have you tried Yes To Carrots Lip Balm? Face Candy tells you what she thinks of it.

Every day this week, Spoiled Pretty is giving away a chic summer bag, filled with beauty booty to help you beat the heat. This series of giveaways is all that and a bag of products! Enter today!

Summer heat doing a number on your skin? Beauty411 shares how the new June Jacobs Cooling and Soothing Masque can help you beat the heat and improve your skin!

Makeup Junkie shares a new Makeup Obsession!

Pursebuzz.com reviews her favorite tinted moisturizer. Clinique Moisture Tint :) See why she loves it so much here.

Karen from Makeup and Beauty Blog shows you how to create a light purple and blue eye with MAC Cosmetics.

The Beauty of Life is giving away over $100 worth of Lisa Hoffman products! Click here to enter!

Make-up Trend: Hot Pink

Non-matchy pink shadow and hot pink lip gloss, with gold shadow on eyes' inner corners. This really opens the eyes and really pinks flatter all skin tones, and anyone can pull them off.

In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway: Clutch

On a summer night, you don’t want to be schlepping a heavy handbag. A clutch is the perfect accessory to carry your beauty booty. But with a smaller bag, you must be careful not to cram. Your cell, keys, wallet and other basic necessities will take up a majority of your clutch’s empty space. So you need to be efficient with the cosmetics you add to your bag. What to carry in the clutch? Travel sized tools and multi-purpose products, of course!

It’s Friday. Thank heavens for that, right? And you know what that means - day five of our In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway Week!!! Spoiled Pretty is giving away Felix Rey’s deliciously chic Michelle Clutch. This bag is the ideal combination of elegant and earthy. It is crafted of oven straw with mirrored-leather bow detail and has a magnetic-snap closure front flap. And leave it to Felix Rey to put a surprise inside…the interior is lined in leopard print fabric! The bag also features a detachable wrist strap.


One reader will receive the Michelle Clutch, chock full of the following:

Cover Girl Lash Blast Mascara: My holy grail mascara gives you a blast of lush, volumized lashes! LashBlast's patented volume-boosting formula and patent-pending brush are designed to max-out each and every lash, leaving you with the ultimate big lash look.

Tarte Lock & Roll Creaseless Eyeshadow Duo: Say goodbye to cream shadows that crease & smudge. Whether it’s a hot day or you’re on a steamy date, this waterproof-shadow is sure to last! We’ve brought you one of our favorite makeup artist tricks for creaseproof cream shadow—two simple steps in one little wand.

Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets: These sheets soak up excess oil and remove shine from your face, without smudging makeup or leaving behind a residue. Use them anytime, anywhere to remove oil and shine throughout the day.

Goody Mosaic Mini Versa Comb: This 3-in-1 comb is small enough to fit in your purse, but large enough to maintain your style.

To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name. The subject line should read "Felix Rey Clutch Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Thursday, July 3rd. One winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Friday, July 4th, I’m going to make some lucky lady’s Independence Day by proclaiming her the winner! Please, only one entry per person; duplicate entries will not increase your chances of winning. Contest is open to U.S. & Canadian residents only.

And be sure to check out the other bag giveaways. You can enter all of the giveaways, but you can only win once. Good luck!

In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway: Eco-Friendly Bag

Just because you care about the earth doesn’t mean that you should neglect your appearance. I am a firm believer that being an eco-friendly fashionista isn’t an oxymoron.

Take, for example, Elezar handbags. This summer, Elezar is expanding its collection of handbags to include a new vegan line, Vivi. Vivi bags match the beauty, sophistication and functionality of Elezar’s leather collection while providing stylish women with another fabulous form of expression. Vivi’s lush Ecouture materials mirror the luxury provided by Elezar’s leather bags, but is made from a unique, high-end biodegradable material found in Italy. The look and feel is not only luxurious, but the great functional shapes with a slight edge exude passion – from the old world feel of weaved fencing to the modern day ultra-chic chain handles. Elezar bags keep you organized, polished and always chic.


Today is day four of our In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway Week. So all of you haute hippies out there, here’s your chance to get spoiled pretty. Elezar’s Vivi Barrel Bag (which retails for $375) will be filled with the following summer essentials:


Burt's Bees Chemical-Free Sunscreen SPF 15: This non-greasy formula provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and helps keep skin hydrated without using chemical sunscreen actives like octinoxate and oxybenzone. Instead, titanium dioxide, a naturally-occuring mineral creates a micro-fine barrier on your skin to reflect the sun's harmful rays. The natural sunscreen is effective immediately upon application and safe for kids.


Aloe & Linden Flower After Sun Soother: Help overexposed skin chill out with this intensely hydrating, quick-absorbing face and body lotion. It’s packed with natural aloe vera and linden extract to soothe. Coconut oil, bee pollen and glycerin nourish your skin and help replenish its natural moisture. Your sun-kissed skin will feel revived, soft and healthy, naturally.


Jurlique Sun Lotion SPF 30+: This broad spectrum sun lotion is formulated to give extra protection against sun exposure. Suitable for all skin types.


Jurlique Citrus Silk Finishing Powder: A silky translucent facial powder that refines the complexion and helps absorb excess facial oil to reduce shine. Leaves the skin fresh and radiant.


Jurlique Citrus Purifying Mist: This clarifying mist is infused with the living energy of witch hazel and marshmallow combined with essential oils of tangerine and lemon to enliven and purify. Leaves the skin hydrated and refreshed. Ideal for rebalancing summer-induced oiliness.


Tarte Double Dose Berry Boost & Gloss in acai boost, acerola rush, go go goji, and pomegranate punch: Get a double dose of beauty and treatment. The inner berry boost is a t5 super fruit complex™ concentrated pigment that mixes with the outer high shine gloss. The result is a rich color that helps rejuvenate your lips. The formula is infused with vitamin C, peppermint oil, and shea butter – and is paraben-free, mineral-oil free, and phthalate free. With the purchase of every gloss, you’ll be helping to preserve the Amazon Rainforest through forest conservation, improved living conditions and educational opportunities for communities in Brazil. Tarte supports Sambazon’s Sustainable Acai Project (SAP), a member of the Organic Trade Association and the Fair Trade Federation.

To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name. The subject line should read "Elezar Handbag Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Wednesday, July 2nd. One winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Thursday, July 3rd, I’ll announce the winner’s name. Please, only one entry per person; duplicate entries will not increase your chances of winning. Contest is open to U.S. & Canadian residents only.

And be sure to check out the other bag giveaways. You can enter all of the giveaways, but you can only win once. Good luck!

Kim Kardashian's Favorite Bronzer

Yesterday on her blog, Kim Kardashian answered some tanning questions. Here's an excerpt, for all of you Kim fans...

Mona asks:

Hey Kim! I'd really love your "sun-kissed" look, what is your favorite make-up bronzer to use on your face/body??

Kim answers:
I love MAC bronzers! I try to use a darker pressed powder like NC45, instead of bronzers with shimmer, because it tends to look to shiny sometimes.

For more of Kim Kardashian's beauty and makeup tips, click here!

Source: officialkimkardashian.com

Rihanna at BET Awards: Yellow Fever!

Rihanna is a ray of sunshine in a Giambattista Valli gown. Her eye makeup is perfection, but I can't say that I'm loving the matte metlot shade on her lips.

Thoughts?

In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway: Everyday Bag

The average weight of the contents of a woman’s purse has skyrocketed over the past five years. Exactly how much does the typical gal lug around? More than five pounds of crap – that’s how much! Researchers predict that by 2018, the average handbag will weigh more than 6.6 pounds. High-tech gadgets have been blamed for the 38 percent increase…but lets be real, ladies. Those eight lip products add up.

If you’re anything like me, your purse is chock-full of nonsense…old shopping receipts, gum wrappers, enough Starbucks napkins to last a lifetime, and seven dollars in coins lining the bottom of the bag. I’m not going to be a hypocrite and tell you to throw that mess out. But I do have some suggestions for how you can pare down your beauty stash this summer, and lighten your load by at least a couple of ounces. Summer heat is oppressive enough…and let’s face it – Scoliosis isn’t sexy.

* Instead of tossing your regular hairbrush and comb into your purse, opt for a purse-sized set. But make sure that you invest in quality products…I don’t know about you, but those “nifty” pop-up purse brushes never work for me. And if it doesn’t work, you might as well not carry it. Right?

* Palettes and multi-purpose products are great options…they offer innumerable options without sacrificing space.

* If you’re prone to t-zone oiliness, you could carry around a translucent powder compact. But powder tends to cake in the heat, so you’re better off carrying some blotting papers. Plus you’ll shed some weight.

Today is day three of our In The Bag Summer Beauty Giveaway Week, and to get you over the hump, I'm spoiling you pretty with this handbag from Creations By Kage.


The "Stormy" tote is, in two words, effortlessly sumptuous. The bag is like buttah - all Kage creations are made of the finest Italian leathers. The line is geared towards the girl with very sophisticated taste who wants a really unique bag made of finest materials and the highest quality, but doesn't necessarily have to own a "name" brand. Designer Kristin Holstein says her bags have a certain elegance to them, as they are clean in design, with simple pleats and the Kage signature horseshoe detail. "The symbol of the horseshoe means so much to me. Not only does it represent good luck, but it reminds me of my mother and her love of horses. They constantly give me inspiration, and will always be a significant theme in my design process."

For the winner, this bag will be accompanied by the following goodies:


Cover Girl Lash Blast Mascara: Get a blast of lush, volumized lashes! LashBlast's patented volume-boosting formula and patent-pending brush are designed to max-out each and every lash, leaving you with the ultimate big lash look. This happens to be my Holy Grail mascara.

Goody Mosaic Ouchless Purse Brush: The ultimate in snagless styling. This brush is smaller sized – perfect for travel or on the go styling.

Goody Mosaic Mini Versa Comb: This 3-in-1 comb is small enough to fit in your purse, but large enough to maintain your style.

Tarte Infinite Glow Bestsellers Palette: Get a natural, radiant glow with this chic palette that has everything you need to tan, glow and pout in minutes flat! This bestsellers palette includes Park Ave Princess Mineral Powder Bronzer, award-winning Gel Cheek Stain in Tipsy and a moisturizing 24.7 Lip Sheer in a new shade May Flowers. This luxe faux-croc, compact with mirror is perfect for on-the-go application!

MAX Factor Vivid Impact Eyeshadow Duos in Domino Effect, Emerald Coast, and Peach Basket: Sweep on these loose powder eye shadows for a subtle shimmer or lay it on thick for a metallic effect. The couture-color combinations let you create vibrant shadow effects with the brilliant artistry of a pro.

DentaBurst “Be Ready To Shine” Kit: DentaBurst Freshening Teeth Cleaners are an effective way to clean teeth and freshen breath on-the-go. Unlike mints or gum, they remove plaque from the surfaces of teeth, leaving them feeling smooth and clean. The kit contains 72 individually-wrapped Dentaburst, a business card case, and a calendar/planner.

RoC Retinol Correxion Hand Repair Cream SPF15: This revolutionary formula not only moisturizes but has been scientifically shown to fortify the outer layer of skin and is clinically shown to even out the look of discolorations and age spots for more youthful looking hands. In addition, its SPF 15 UVA/UVB sunscreen protects hands from damaging UVA rays that may contribute to skin damage and premature aging of the skin. Allure Magazine Best of Beauty winner.

Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets: Oil-Absorbing Sheets soak up excess oil and remove shine from your face, without smudging makeup or leaving behind a residue. Use them anytime, anywhere to remove oil and shine throughout the day.

Aveeno Essential Moisture Lip Conditioner SPF 15: This unique lip treatment provides essential long-lasting moisturization to help condition and protect dry, chapped lips. With an exclusive combination of natural oatmeal and natural skin conditioners, including jojoba oil and shea butter, it restores moisture and locks it in long after applying. It contains UVA/UVB sunscreens to protect lips from the sun and is good for daily use.

To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name. The subject line should read "Creations By Kage Handbag Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Tuesday, July 1st. One winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Wednesday, July 2nd, I’ll announce the winner’s name. Please, only one entry per person; duplicate entries will not increase your chances of winning. Contest is open to U.S. & Canadian residents only.

And be sure to check out the other bag giveaways. You can enter all of the giveaways, but you can only win once. Good luck!