Stila Raspberry Crush Lip & Cheek Stain

Stila's got a new crush: Raspberry Crush Lip & Cheek Stain ($24).

The newest member of the la Crush familia delivers a pop of vibrant pink to your lips and cheeks.

Packed with good for you ingredients and a touch of subtle shimmer, this sheer raspberry-rich formula creates a healthy, glowing flush of youth. Infused with naturally staining raspberry extracts, this sweetly-scented wonder reacts to your personal pH levels to create your perfect vibrant pink shade every time. This juicy formula works as a blush and a lip tint - leaving a pretty pop of color that compliments your fresh summer skin.

Stila Dust to Diamond Collection - Buy It All!

Because the recession isn't recessing any time soon, I don't usually advocate purchasing entire makeup collections. I understand that, for most, money is tight...so I usually highlight certain items as must-have additions to your beauty arsenal. But in the case of Stila's new collection for spring 2010, Dust to Diamonds, I can't choose.

I'm a sucker for sparkles, and this collection had me at "bling." Seriously, if Stila had't furnished me with samples to review, I would have paid my own cash money for these products. That's how fantabulous they are. Since I first tested the collection two weeks ago, I've worn at least one of the products every day since.

Top: Yumberry Crush Lip & Cheek Stain; Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner
Middle: Jewel Eye Shadow Palette
Bottom: Jewel Lip Glaze Trio

To purchase the entire collection would run you $132, which isn't all that bad. But if your makeup fund is maxed out, here are my individual reviews - so you can decide what you need now (and what can wait til later).

Jewel Eye Shadow Palette ($32): "This high-tech eye shadow formula creates a glittering wave of sequin-like sparkle, leaving your eyes glistening like jewels." These really aren't the shadows you'll be applying in the AM before work; more likely, this is the palette you'll reach for in the evening to kick it up a notch and create a truly glitterrific effect. The formula is a blend of pigment and pearl, and the coverage is buildable - so don't worry that these shadows will take you into drag queen territory...unless that's the look you're going for. Shades include Rose Quartz (light pink with silver sparkle), Amethyst (gray aubergine with champagne sparkle), Black Diamond (black with silver sparkle) and Golden Topaz (champagne shimmer with silver and gold sparkle).

Jewel Lip Glaze Trio ($32): "Sprinkle stardust on the lips with this trio of glistening glosses infused with Stila Gem Complex, a blend of Diamond, Emerald, Jade, Ruby, Moonstone, Rose Quartz, Sapphire, Topaz, Amethyst, Amber, Garnet, Mother of Pearl, Opal and Alexandrite. Mango Seed Butter, Goa Seed Butter and Shea Butter keep lips moisturized all day. The formula seamlessly glides on the lips leaving a celestial wave of sequin reflections." Okay, if you're a gal who believes that glitter makes everything better, this should be your first purchase. Likewise, if you're a lipgloss lover. At first glance, these glosses are verrrrry glittery; even I was a little hesitant about trying them. But I found the glitter content to be Goldilocks perfect (not too much, not too little)...and the formula felt smooth, not gritty. The shades are more sheer on the lips than in the tube - so don't let the concentrated color fool you. Shades include Pink Diamond (pink with pink sparkles), Amethyst (deep plum with gold and red sparkles) and Golden Topaz (warm amber with pink sparkles).

Black Diamond Mascara ($24): Not only does this mascara beautifully plump and lengthen your lashes, it imparts a subtle little shimmer shimmah. Available in Black Shimmer (black with silver shimmer) and Blue Shimmer (black with blue shimmer).

Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner ($20): "Marker-sharp precision and a true carbon black pigment, this waterproof liquid liner glides on easily without pulling, smudging, or running. Color stays in place all day long." This eyeliner is amazing. It draws razor thin and thick lines. The shade is inky black...and, as the name suggests, the formula ain't coming off until you're ready to take it off. If I was purchasing from this collection, the Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner would be my first buy.

Though not technically a part of Stila's spring 2010 collection, I would be remiss if I didn't mention Yumberry Crush Lip & Cheek Stain ($24). At first, I was very skeptical that the pearly pink shade would compliment my cappuccino complexion. But once I blended the sheer blush into my cheeks and lips, it gave me a believable snow bunny glow. I mean, you could go outside in the cold and wait until you can't feel your face...or you can pick up this clickable pen and apply the berry scented gel for a yummy, fresh-faced flush.

CoverGirl Outlast Lipstains Are A Best Beauty Buy

I was on television again - this time, gushing about CoverGirl Outlast Lipstains.

Stila Indian Summer Collection Now Available!

Introducing Stila Indian Summer: get gorgeous with 24kt gold!

Bronzing Tinted Moisturizer SPF15 ($32)
Stila’s bestselling Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer has gone golden! Bronzing Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15 - infused with genuine 24kt gold - contains the perfect ratio of pigment to pearl, providing a beaming, flawless face in an instant.

Mineral Bronzing Powder - Brushed Gold ($34)
Radiant, bronzed skin has never been looked so good (or been so good for you!) This 100% natural finishing powder gives your skin a warm, natural bronzed glow skin with one simple dusting. Eco-certified ingredients hydrate and protect, while the pearl pigments and 24kt Gold - a known antioxidant with added anti-microbial properties - keep skin youthful and glowing.

Convertible Color Duo - Marigold ($25)
Get that sun-kissed look you long for with the newest addition to the award-winning Convertible Color family – Marigold. Infused with genuine 24kt gold – a known antioxidant with added anti-microbial properties - Marigold features two gorgeously golden hues that will give your skin a natural, youthful glow. Wear shades alone or mix together to create a brilliantly bronzed look.

Mango Crush, Lip & Cheek Stain ($24)
This season’s latest super-fruit inspired multi-tasker will give you instant glamour gratification. Mango Crush Lip and Cheek Stain is infused with naturally staining mango extracts that react to your personal pH levels to create your perfect shade every time. Used as a sheer blush, or a lip tint and packaged in Stila's iconic clickable pen, this revolutionary formula is easy to build and blend, and leaves your lips and cheeks with a fresh flush of youth.

Charmed Eye Shadow Palette ($28)
Go for the gold and the bold this summer with Stila’s India-inspired eye shadow palette! Adorned with authentic Indian bindis, this palette features four highly-pigmented new shadow shades all infused with genuine 24kt gold. Long revered for its skin revitalizing properties, this luxurious metal helps minimize the appearance of fine lines and creates a rich, shimmering effect.

Smudge Pot - Golden Noir ($20)
Add a little sass to your sultry summer look with Smudge Pot in Golden Noire. This new twist on the cult favorite Smudge Pot sprinkles genuine 24kt gold flakes into the rich matte black base leaving eyes gilded and glam. Long revered for its skin revitalizing properties, this “touch of gold” helps minimize the appearance of fine lines and creates a rich, shimmering effect.

Lash Visor Waterproof Mascara ($20)
Stila’s Lash Visor Mascara has long been an industry favorite. It’s quick-drying, long-wearing; waterproof formula makes it the perfect do-it-all mascara. And now – it is even better! Stila has put this iconic formula in a bigger, metal component – so there is more mascara to love. It also has a new re-designed brush for thick, long, luxurious lashes that stay perfectly defined all day.

24kt Gloss ($22)
Add some sizzle to your summer with Stila’s 24kt gloss! Infused with genuine 24kt gold, this non-sticky formula gives you a vibrant, glistening, gorgeous grin. Available in five brilliant shades.

CoverGirl Outlast Lipstains and LashBlast Luxe Giveaway Winner

Congrats to Carrie Kang, winner of Spoiled Pretty's CoverGirl Outlast Lipstains and LashBlast Luxe Giveaway. She will receive all ten shades of CoverGirl Outlast Lipstains and three tubes of CoverGirl LashBlast Luxe Mascara (in black cabernet, black emerald, and black platinum).

Big thanks to CoverGirl for creating such perfect (and wallet-friendly) products, and for spoiling Carrie pretty!

CoverGirl Outlast Lipstains and LashBlast Luxe Giveaway!!!

It’s no secret that I heart CoverGirl Outlast Lipstains. They are pure genius. Since I was afforded a sneak peek of the product back in December, I've worn the lipstains at least a few times a week. I top them off with a little clear gloss and it lasts for 6+ hours...so I’m looking pretty all day long without touchups (but it comes off easily with makeup remover).

If these were just any ole lip stains, my excitement would have waned by now. But these are not just any lipstains. They were created by the makeup master, Ms. Pat McGrath. No matter how many other lipsticks, balms and glosses make my aquaintence, I just can’t let go of these lipstains. They’re always top of mind and at the bottom of my makeup bag. You know the commercial/song that goes "I'd Like To Buy The World A Coke?" Well, that's how I feel about CoverGirl Outlast Lipstains.

And because Valentine’s Day is only a few days away - I’m spreading the love 'round here, y'’all. One reader will win all ten shades of CoverGirl Outlast Lipstains. And I’m throwing in three tubes of CoverGirl LashBlast Luxe Mascara (in black cabernet, black emerald, and black platinum), for good measure. Just cuz I feel like it.

Do you feel like a winner this time?

To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address. The subject line should read "CoverGirl Lipstain Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Wednesday, February 18th. One winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Thursday, February 19th, 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. and Canadian residents only.

Covergirl Outlast Lipstains - Now at CVS

Yes, child...I was at CVS yesterday buying up a bunch of nonsense* so that I could use my "Get $5 off a purchase of $25" ExtraCare Card coupon - and I spied CoverGirl Outlast Lipstains!!!

*To be honest, it wasn't really nonsense. I picked up L’Oreal Skin Genesis Daily Moisturizer Oil Free Lotion (I recently ran out and almost had a conniption), travel sized tube of Crest with Scope (for a Christmas trip to Spokane, WA to see my in-laws) and Selsun Blue Moisturizing Formula (never wear black without the blue, baby).

Recessionista's Fabuless Pick of the Week: CoverGirl Outlast Lipstain

Remember how I told you that CoverGirl Outlast Lipstain wouldn't be available until January 2009? Well, I lied. Not on purpose though...I'd never intentionally deceive you. You see, CoverGirl Outlast Lipstains will make their way to mass-market retail outlets nationwide starting next month, but Drugstore.com is giving you an early Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanzaa present...cuz you can get your lips on them today!!!

I've had these babies in my possession for the past few weeks, and I'm enamored. Since I was afforded a sneak peek of the product, I have had them on my person at all times. I've worn at least one of the shades everyday since they arrived on my doorstep. I am an equal opportunity beauty addict and I give most anything a chance - so when I enter into a monogamous relationship with a product, it means a lot. CoverGirl Outlast Lipstain, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways...

The water-based colorants infuse into the top layer of lips, rather than coat the outside...so there's no waxy, sticky residue. The formula contains conditioners (like glycerine and hyaluronic acid) to soften and smooth lips, and Outlast is one of the few stains that doesn't contain alcohol, which can be drying. The felt tip allows for precise application, and the stain can be layered to achieve a sheer or more opaque look. Finally, it lasts for 6+ hours...so you're looking pretty all day long without touchups (but it comes off easily with facial cleanser or makeup remover).

P&G Global Creative Design Director, Pat McGrath, created a palette of ten brilliant shades that deliver a flush of color to the lips: Berry Smooch, Bit of Blossom, Cinnamon Smile, Coy Coral, Everbloom Kiss, Flirty Nude, Plum Pout, Sassy Mauve, Teasing Blush, and Wild Berry Wink. "Over the last few seasons, lipstain has emerged as a key beauty trend on fashion runways," says McGrath. "The CoverGirl Outlast Lipstain collection is one step ahead of the curve with its novel pen applicator and prestige color palette. It's a great way to update your look and stay on top of the latest runway trends."

My personal fave is Sassy Mauve. I wear it almost everyday for that snow bunny, me-but-cuter look. Top it with a clear gloss for a little kick, and you're good to go. I like it so much, I probably should put a ring on it. First runner-up is Wild Berry Wink. On Saturday, I applied two coats followed by a few swipes of clear gloss - and I swore I was Rihanna in her latest video. I might need rehab, considering how addicted I've become to this sexy shade.

Buy these now, ladies. I swear you won't be disappointed. They're holy grail material. And at $7.50 a pop, they're this recessionista's fabuless pick of the week!

CoverGirl Outlast Lipstain Sneak Peek at bebe

CoverGirl Outlast Lipstain will be available in ten virtually weightless shades at mass-market retail outlets nationwide beginning in January 2009 (suggested retail price is $7.29). But you can get a sneak peek this month, thanks to bebe.

Friday, December 12 through Sunday, December 14, bebe holiday shoppers will be treated to an exclusive preview of CoverGirl Outlast Lipstain, the beauty essential for 2009. The retail locations listed below will carry the preview of next season's 'it' beauty product only for bebe customers, who will receive a gift-with-purchase (free with any purchase of $100 or more).

Participating locations:

Fifth Ave., New York
Columbus Circle, New York
One West 34th Street, New York
Roosevelt Field, Long Island/Staten Island
Beverly Center, Los Angeles
Rodeo Drive, Los Angeles
Santa Monica Promenade, Los Angeles
Sherman Oaks, LA Valley
Newport, Orange County LA
Arden Fair, Central California
Fashion Valley, San Diego
SF Centre, San Francisco
Oakbrook, Chicago
Oak Street, Chicago
Watertower, Chicago
Woodfield, Minnesota/Chicago
Lenox, Atlanta
Northpark, Dallas/Austin
Houston, Houston Metro
Forum Shops, Las Vegas
Fashion Show, Las Vegas
Venetian, Las Vegas
South Beach, Miami
Dadeland, Miami
Aventura, South Florida
Tampa Int’l, Central Florida
King of Prussia, Philadelphia
Tyson’s Corner, Virginia/DC/Baltimore
Ala Moana, Hawaii
Royal Hawaiian, Hawaii
Scottsdale, Arizona
Green Hills, Central Midwest
Garden State, Central New Jersey
Short Hills, Central New Jersey
Valley Fair, Easy Bay (San Francisco)
Stoneridge, East Bay (San Francisco)

Shoppers can also take advantage of the promotion online.

MAC Ungaro, Cremesheen and Holiday Swatches

Passions of Red: Fascinating Ruby 6 Smokey Eyes

Ungaro: See Thru Lip Color and Pastel Emotion Lipglass


Red She Said: Mineralize Eye Shadows in Inter-view and Persuasive

Red She Said: Miss Dynamite and Sugarrimmed Dazzleglass

Adoring Carmine: My Dear Lipglass


Passions of Red: Fascinating Ruby 3 Plum Lips

Red She Said: Crazee Lipstick
Cremesheen: Crosswires Lipstick

Adoring Carmine: Soft Spot and Real Treasure Lipsticks

Posie Tint: Your Summertime Friend, With Benefit

In the summertime, makeup slides off my face like it was made of Teflon. Which is why cheek/lip stain is a makeup bag must-have for me. But have you noticed how most stains fall into the fuchsia family? Fine for autumn and winter…but I’m not trying to look like a ski bunny in July.

Luckily, there’s Posie Tint, a warm weather-appropriate version of Benefit's cult-favorite Benetint.

I’m not going to lie…at first glance, its shocking Pepto Bismol color might induce nausea, heartburn, and/or indigestion. But once you see the petal-pink perfection on your cheeks and lips, you’ll agree…Posie Tint is blooming genius!

Posie Tint is available at Sephora and benefitcosmetics.com.

Somebody Told Me...

This afternoon, I received an email from my girl Tess, over at Three Custom Color Specialists. Tess told me that Troy Jensen, makeup artist to the Pussycat Dolls, had just called from the set of the music video shoot for their new single, "When I Grow Up."

In the video, Nicole Scherzinger will be wearing Three Custom Color's Light Brights Lipstick in Palladium. The dolls loved the shades so much that Troy requested a set of all four shades for each of them!

If NARS Orgasm Doesn't Work For You, Read This...

I hate when beauty brands or makeup artists speak in absolutes. When I hear that a product allegedly works on all skin tones, I want to shout, “That’s impossible – nothing works on everyone!” So for a couple of years, I’ve been walking around feeling sorry for myself because Orgasm looks like crap on me. Every time someone gushes about how Orgasm is a must-have for every woman’s makeup bag, I want to throttle them.

Don’t get me wrong…I think it’s an ab fab color. And it does look gorgeous on most women. But on me, it looks like sparkles. The first few times I tried Orgasm, I thought I was doing something wrong. I thought if I applied it differently, magic would happen. So I used a brush. Then a puff. Then my fingers. I applied it lightly. Then heavily. And nuthin’.

Then, when NARS released Orgasm The Multiple, I though that it might be the answer to my Orgasm prayers. But, again…nuthin’. Just sparkles.

But guess what…I am happy to report that I’ve finally found my Orgasm. Except it’s called Torrid, and it’s perfect for light brown girls like me. This sexy flush of coral shimmer is exactly what I thought Orgasm would be. So if you’re like me, and have been silently cursing Orgasm all of these years, go and brush your shoulders off. While all of your friends are going on and on about their Orgasm, you'll be enjoying a Torrid affair.

And while you’re at the NARS counter, check out Sandpiper/Daredevil Lip Gloss/Stain. Sandpiper is a shimmering amber coral gloss (when NARS does shimmer, they don’t mess around) and Daredevil is a deep scarlet stain. It’s great to keep in your purse because it takes you from day to night. Just be careful with the stain.

Make sure to exfoliate your lips in advance, because the stain will highlight dryness and flakes. And when you apply, dot the stain on the middle of the lips and blend outward with your finger (cuz the pigment is potent). “Don’t go all up in there with the stain,” says Jason, my new fave makeup artist at the Walnut Street Blue Mercury store. Thanks for the words of wisdom, Jason!

Totally Tubular Giveaway Winners Revealed

Happy Memorial Day, everyone!

I realize that you've got more exciting things to do than spend your day off surfing this site. So I'm not going to hold you too long. The winners of the Totally Tubular giveaway are Eileen Karla Dautruche, Jill Myrick, and Tammy Thiele.

These lucky ladies will receive a tube of Light Brights in Limelight, courtesy of Three Custom Color Specialists.

Congrats!

Check back later for our next contest.

What's Victoria's Secret? Beauty Products On Sale - Up To 90% Off!

Been saving your pennies for a rainy day? Now's your opportunity to cash in and save big. Shop Victoria's Secret beauty clearance - get up to 90% off select products from VS, Vincent Longo, Lippmann Collection, Talika, TheBalm, and Anna Sui. Here's just a preview of the steals and deals...


Vincent Longo Diamond Lip Gloss
Originally: $22
Clearance: $8.99


Lippmann Collection Heaven In My Hand Warmers
Originally: $39.50
Clearance: $3.99


Anna Sui Eye Color
Originally: $17
Clearance $6.99


TheBalm Stainiac
Originally: $14
Clearance: $5.99


Wexler M.D. Universal Anti-Aging Starter Kit
Originally: $45
Clearance: $24.99

Totally Tubular: Light Brights Giveaway!

Good morning, pretties. I was absolutely exhausted yesterday and went to sleep without posting the latest giveaway. My bad.

So without further ado, here’s how we’re spoiling you pretty this week…

The 80’s is back in a big way, inspiring new trends in fashion and beauty. But before you bust out your shoulder pads, leg warmers, and jelly bracelets – be aware that what’s en vogue (and in Vogue) right now is a modern take on 80’s retro glam.

So how do you embrace this trend without looking like a Dynasty reject? Three Custom Color Specialists has the perfect product.

Light Brights (not to be confused with Lite Brite, on of my fave childhood toys) is a collection of moisturizing, balmy stains in DayGlo fluorescent shades. When applied, they let the natural beauty of your lips shine through, while enhancing your pout with a sheer brightness. They can be layered for a fuller coverage, and can also be dabbed on the cheeks for a fresh glow.

Light Brights are available in four rad shades, named after popular NYC dancehalls from the '80s:


Area is a juicy and bright, yet surprisingly wearable tangerine.


Danceteria is a flirty coral for girls who just wanna have fun.


Limelight is a sweet and soft, a pinky peach that pops.


Palladium is a hot pink flash of color fit for any rockstar.

This week, we’re giving you the chance to win a tube of your very own. Three lucky readers will receive Light Brights in Limelight.

To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name. The subject line should read "Totally Tubular Giveaway.” The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Sunday, May 25th. Winners will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Monday, May 26th, 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.

Good luck!

Carissa's Bridal Makeup Must-Haves: Day 1

I’m a cosmetics connoisseur. That much is obvious. But I’m no makeup artist. So when I started planning for Bridal Beauty Week, I decided I needed to consult with a professional.

My girl Carissa, writer and editor of Hooked On Beauty, is a professional makeup artist who specializes in weddings. Over her twelve-year career, she’s developed an arsenal of products that are essential for creating that perfect bridal look.

Every day this week, Carissa will share one of her bridal makeup must-haves. Without further ado, here is her first pick.

Carissa says:

Talking, kissing, eating and drinking all contribute to the early death of the lipstick. I always reinforce lips by using Stila's Lip Rouge in Moue, a felt-tipped magic marker for your lips to provide long-wearing color hours after the gloss is gone.

To learn more about Carissa and her services, visit coloradoweddingmakeup.com.

PS - Don't forget to enter the Ultimate Bridal Beauty Basket giveaway!