GIRLFRIEND APPROVED

Starry Eyed Surprise

2011-11-19T22:17:00.001-08:00

Star Projector from Infmetry.com $22

Purchase on Infmetry.com

More Home Ideas from DAILY CANDY!!

Vintage Hairstyles

2011-11-19T22:06:00.001-08:00

Winter Hairstyles from the Daily Candy

Link above shows you pic-by-pic how to do the Faux Bob, Low Pony, Teased Loose Updo and Beach Waves.

My favorite is the Teased Loose Updo. So adorable and fun! Great idea for diiiirty hair ;)

Model Obsession: Kate

2011-11-17T23:27:00.001-08:00

Kate Moss with daughter Lila Grace in Vogue Magazine (photo by Mario Testino).

PaloVia Skin Renewing Laser

2011-11-16T19:06:00.001-08:00

Available at Nordstrom, this at-home laser treatment eliminates fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes by using daily 3-4 min! Price tag is a bit steep though at $499. However, a series of laser treatments at the dermatologist's office would cost you a lot more. Would you buy this??

Rachel Roy Day & Night Eye Shadow Palette

2011-11-16T17:20:00.001-08:00

GIFT IDEA: Rachel Roy Day & Night Eye Shadow Palette *Macy's Exclusive* $32

WHY IT MAKES A FAB GIFT: Shadows that every woman can wear from day to night. Also includes 2 brushes. Great for travel.

RACHEL'S INSPIRATION: “I want my girls [daughters Ava, 11 and Tallulah, 3] to have Fire, I want them to have Good Energy, I want them to have Balance. For me, I wouldn’t be anything without making sure that I balance my life. Galaxy, Inifinite - we need to dream. Evil Eye for me is something that’s very protective,” Rachel explained. “You can be really into clothes, jewelry, makeup, whatever it is, but where’s your intent? Is it to better yourself, is it to learn more about yourself? Or is it just to put a bunch of makeup on and sit around and wait for a guy to ask you out? I can’t get with that at all. But if that was my intent, you’d have different names for the colors.”

Credits to BeautyBlitz and Macy's.

What Kim Kardashian's Plastic Surgeon Should Have Told Her: Botox and Juvederm's #1 Secret

2010-09-12T19:27:00.000-07:00

ARNICA MONTANA!! And, no, I'm not referring to Hannah Montana's secret, less-famous sister. In its original and raw form, it is a plant found in Europe, but nowadays, it is found in such forms as a topical cream or an herbal supplement. Both forms aid the body in healing (i.e. reducing the swelling and pain of bruises) as well as acting as an effective anti-inflammatory, taken a few days before and after a cosmetic treatment such as Juvederm (filler) or Botox (muscle relaxer). Poor Kim. Now you know for next time (that is 3-6 months).

Watch Kim Kardashian's Botox Procedure on Hulu.com

Neon Nights

2010-04-06T21:02:00.000-07:00

Girlfriend Approved supports our good friend, Stephanie Nash at MfD - Market for Drama. So starting today at 11am EST, purchase Ginger + Liz nail colours at up to 50% off!!!

Check out MfD picks from Ginger + Liz, including He’s So Into Me, Boy Toy, the Neon Nights collection (shown above) and Hold the Drama (of course!).

The Launch of Ginger + Liz

Launched in Fall 2009, Ginger + Liz is the newest buzzworthy brand of nail colour products. The unique formula is fast drying, long lasting, chip-resistant, and highly pigmented, with supreme quality 398-strand brushes for smooth application. The formula is organic, vegan friendly, and toxin-free (no Toluene, Formaldehyde or DBP).

The Founders

The Ginger + Liz brand was created by model/author S. Liz Pickett and entrepreneur H. Ginger Johnson, who have a decade of individually unique experiences in the fashion, beauty, and marketing industries that, coupled with their insatiable love for fashion and beauty, led to the development of Ginger + Liz. The collection provides small ticket luxury beauty products to the increasingly discerning beauty buffs that are predominately influenced by fashion, arts, travel, and entertainment.

THREAD is back, back again..

2010-04-05T22:55:00.000-07:00

Last minute post, but you have a little over an hour to purchase a discounted ticket via Groupon.com to the ever-so-popular THREAD SHOW in SD. Hurry up...

More details:

100+ emerging designers
Live music and DJs
Clothing, house wares, and art
Free hair and makeup

Pre-Party: Sat, 4/10 - W Hotel

for Guest List - email vip@tkent.com & make sure to tell 'em Vivian from GF Approved sent you

http://www.groupon.com/r/uu442990

From Shaping Shagg to Branding Shampoo

2010-02-01T12:39:00.000-08:00

Sally Hershberger, the celebrity stylist known for charging $800 a hair cut, is one of the few women to have launched a signature hair care brand, joining male counterparts like Frederic Fekkai, Nick Chavez and John Frieda, with whom she once collaborated on his namesake product line.

A Kansas native, Hershberger’s name has become synonymous with the Shagg, a multi-layered, tousled style popularized by Meg Ryan in the movieFrench Kiss. Along with movie and magazine work, Hershberger operates three salons – one in Los Angeles, and two in Manhattan – one uptown and one downtown. She’s also launched a fashion line and a fledgling anti-age skin care range with the Face Place.

Still, her biggest retail push so far has been behind the mass market brand ‘Sally Hershberger Supreme Head.’ A great believer in collaboration, Hershberger engaged the help of Lynn Emmolo (of L’Oréal, Avon and Limited Brands experience) with the 2008 launch. Emmolo is now CEO of Sally Hershberger Professional Haircare.

Hershberger and Emmolo spoke recently about career decisions and the making of the Supreme Head brand.

On Becoming a Hair Stylist

When I was 18, my mom told me it was time to get a job. At my friends’ urging I decided on beauty school. Styling hair was a natural talent of mine that other people recognized. While I was training, I landed an apprenticeship in L.A. with Arthur Johns. It was at his salon that I began working with celebrities and establishing relationships.(Hershberger)

On Following Leads

After my apprenticeship with Arthur Johns, at age 20 I went on tour with Olivia Newton-John, where I was introduced to (photographer) Herb Ritts. Everything unrolled organically from there. As my career grew, my ambition grew as well.(Hershberger)

On Product Development

After years of working on sets with products that didn’t work, I decided to create my own line of products that would deliver results quickly and easily. It was important to me that my line be effective and affordable.

First, I figured out what was missing from the market, then I set out to create product that filled that void. Most women have layers, but until I came out with Shagg Spray, and later the entire Shagg collection, there weren’t products designed specifically for layered hair. My Wavy Hair collection did the same thing. (Hershberger)

About Expanding the Brand

The Sally Hershberger product line was launched exclusively in Walgreens, and now distribution has expanded to Shoppers Drug Mart (in Canada), Ulta and Target. There will be lots of new distribution in the first quarter of this year, and we will add Duane Reade in February. Most women shop for their hair care products in drugstores and mass market stores. By selling the brand in the mass market, we reach the biggest number of consumers. Sally may be known for an expensive hair cut, but now she’s accessible to everyone through her brand.

The line started with 14 items, and now there are 22. In particular, the Shagg Spray was very successful, so we extended that with conditioners and shampoos.

We are really excited about a partnership with HSN (Home Shopping Network), and we will be expanding our presence there in March. Exclusive to HSN will be a new five-item styling line. It will carry higher price points than the core brand, which is priced $9.50 to $12.50. This gives us an opportunity to add some luxury details to the products, as well. (Emmolo)

Making It Personal

We are able to build the brand around Sally’s personality, and working with new media and getting her in front of TV is the grassroots of our business model. Showing women how to use the products is the core element. Sally has several one-minute “how to” demonstrations on our website, and we are also doing some novel things with social networks. We are trying to make Sally the ‘Stylist of the Internet.’ She wants women to have sexy movement in their hair and to have hair that is easily pulled together. (Emmolo)

Trying A New Technology

Another way we’re educating consumers is through the use of the JAGTAG in Ricky’s stores. (JAGTAG is a technology company based in Princeton, NJ.) Shoppers will be able to take a photo of a JAGTAG barcode on the shelf signage using their cell phones. Via picture text message request, shoppers will automatically connect with and view Sally’s educational videos right there in the store. Depending on the results of this test, we might take the concept to other (retail) partners. (Emmolo)

The Day to Day

The difference between working at a startup company instead of a large corporate structure is that you can actually make a decision without going up and down the food chain. We can work the bugs out in an hour or so. But we sacrifice service and support for speed. When the printer is out of ink, there is no one else to take care of it. You have to roll up your sleeves at a start-up. The staff here all multi-tasks. We will have an incredible meeting about extremely strategic topics and then at the end, we discuss who is going to get this out in the mail. (Emmolo)

Work Advice

Determination and a positive outlook are a must in this industry. I have always believed you have to work hard so you can play hard. If you are not willing to put in the effort, you won’t make it. I am constantly traveling from coast-to-coast for photo shoots and appointments, and I still work really long hours. When I hire assistants/stylists, I have to see a strong level of commitment paired with good energy and a well-rounded knowledge of current events.(Hershberger)

To Build a Company

Surround yourself with talent. When everyone is at the top of their game, the end result is that much better. Find inspiration everywhere – including inside yourself. (Hershberger)

THANK YOU TO CEW INSIDER!! PLEASE VISIT CEW.ORG

San Diego Rock & Republic Sample Sale

2009-11-18T15:20:00.001-08:00

San Diego Event - Cosmetics Trend Show @Nordstrom Fashion Valley

2009-11-18T15:09:00.000-08:00

Cosmetics Trend Show Saturday, November 21, 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM Join us for our beauty art show highlighting the newest makeup, skincare and fragrance must-haves. Industry experts will update you on the latest beauty trends and share their secrets. Tickets are $15 and are redeemable towards your Cosmetics purchase of $15 or more on the day of the event. Plus, receive a gift for attending the show, while the supply lasts. To purchase a ticket, call 619.295.4441 and ask for your favorite cosmetics counter. *Offer valid on event date for cosmetic department purchases over $15.00 only. Cosmetics
Bobbi Brown Latest Trends Event Saturday, November 21, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Come learn the latest trends in makeup by booking an appointment with our featured artists. Cosmetics
Meet Chanel’s National Artist John Fussell Saturday, November 21, 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM John and the team of Chanel experts will be on hand to guide you through the latest trends in skincare and makeup. Reserve an appointment for a one on one consultation with Chanel cosmetics. Cosmetics
Meet Dior’s National Artist Miguel Castillo Saturday, November 21, 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM Miguel and the team of Dior experts will be on hand to guide you through the latest trends in skincare and makeup. Reserve an appointment for a one on one consultation with Dior cosmetics. Cosmetics

Thanks Rithy & Chris!

2009-11-13T03:01:00.000-08:00

Girlfriend Approved.com wouldn't be the same without its images - especially the ones fronting the Homepage. My amazing friends, Rithy & Chris, took these a couple of months ago, and I will be forever grateful for their beautiful and candid photos! Here are some of my faves...

Qui est PARISIENNE?

2009-11-13T00:19:00.000-08:00

How could you resist the newest fragrance added to the YSL collection - Parisienne? According to YSL, Parisienne is "the fragrance of ultra femininity, ultra sensuality. A grand floral with a woody structure, luminous even in its mystery. Featuring scents of Blackberry - Damask Rose – Sandalwood" Even harder to resist are their ultra chic and ever-so-tantalizing ads featuring who better but Ms. Kate Moss. Here are some stills as well as the actual 1 min commercial - uh don't forget to wipe your drool once it's done.

YSL Parisienne from Hintmag.com on Vimeo.

Quite Possibly (In Fact Indisputably) The Most Interesting Man In The World

2009-11-07T01:13:00.001-08:00

Sean O'Mara. At first glance, you notice his beautiful kind eyes, a distinguishable English accent and without a doubt, an outfit fit for British Royalty! That is Victoria Beckham status, and not at all comparable to the silly, formal hats associated with females of British high society. I recall one famous duchess whose name rhymes with Gamilla (hint: Duchess of Cornwall) who often adorns atop her head a make-believe peacock or hideous black velvet contraption. But anyway, I digress.

So when I met Sean last night at Cathedral, San Diego's Premier Candle Boutique for nearly 15 years, I was , to say the least, "blown away". He is quite literally one of those engaging fellows that capture your attention simply by sharing his life and experiences. Prior to O'Mara's position as the Creator and Head of Royal Apothic, he heralded as a seasoned professional within interior design and the beauty industry. A sabbatical trip to a bookstore in Notting Hill would then throw a curve ball into his career, and an unusual, yet fortunate literary find (an antique apothecary manual) would ultimately cascade him into the success that he has currently achieved. Royal Apothic has made the O-List as in American Royalty & Midas Touch, Oprah Winfrey. O'Mara's luminarie candles and interior perfumes are known for their exotic ability to transport one to a luscious Venetian Grove or Japonesque setting. If you don't believe me, take a whiff of my most recent and proud purchase - the fragrance is entitled An Edwardian Fireplace. Ideal for the holidays, and not the least bit cliche. Its enveloping aroma is warm, cozy and irresistibly scrumptious. To purchase Royal Apothic candles or interior fragrances, view their website at http://www.royalapothic.com. However, for a first-hand experience, try Anthropologie stores and research your local boutiques. It's definitely worth it.

TWIN, My Newest Guilty (British) Pleasure

2009-11-07T00:49:00.000-08:00

Rebecca Smith, former Creative Director of cult fashion mag Lula, and British Vogue's Aimee Farrell launched Twin this month. The fashion publication labels itself as..

"..closer to a book than a magazine
TWIN is strong, sensual and independent – like its readers
TWIN offers considered and uncomplicated art and fashion
TWIN loves creative women but does not worship empty celebrity
TWIN peels back the gloss and gets back to the basics of magazine-making
Substance over surface is our motto."

I have yet to peruse its first issue as I am currently scouting various newstand pub's for its arrival. Yet, I am intoxicated with its website - http://www.twinfactory.co.uk/. The raw video footage extracted from their photo shoots are quite possibly the most provocative pieces of fashion media to date. They are exotic; they are luxurious; they most definitely equate to "eye candy". My fave video - "Sugar Rush", an homage to Louis Vuitton and its newest lace & leather collection. You need to check this ISH out!

You Don't Know Jacques!

2009-11-04T22:40:00.000-08:00

My 2 new favorite Fall Mani-Pedi colors from OPI?

You Don't Know Jacques - a beautiful, rich, suede gray

Lincoln Park After Dark - a luxurious deep, yet vibrant purple

Sephora Top Coat Ultra Brilliance - my staple shiny-top-coat

Moroccan Holiday

2009-11-04T18:27:00.001-08:00

Metallic Rust Smoky Eye, Bronzed Cheeks & Coral Lips create an incredibly natural, yet extremely exotic look. Wear this look with bright colors or patterns to accentuate your makeup.

Breakfast at Tiffany's

2009-11-03T13:08:00.000-08:00

Up-do's are typically set aside for high school homecomings, weddings and your iconic Breakfast at Tiffany's. However, I love how an up-do can make ANY outfit look polished. For instance, take the motorcycle jacket and casual striped shirt combo below. Add smoky eyes, glowing skin and a shimmer of lip gloss, and you've got a look that transitions easily from day to night.

Tutorial for Classy Up-d0: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z4oceXcKsVs

Tutorial for Romantic Up-do: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRY3511o6Zk

Tutorial for French Twist Up-d0: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JNFRiGt1C4

Orange You Glad You Put Lipstick On This Morning?

2009-11-03T12:57:00.000-08:00

This orange-based lipstick just POPS! It reminds me of my childhood summer days when I spent the afternoon at my Auntie Shirley's house - a few hours of swimming, playing Little Mermaid, followed by a Big Stick Popsicle which of course served as my pretend lipstick at the time. Isn't childhood priceless?

Smokin' Trend

2009-11-03T11:43:00.000-08:00

Smoky Eyes are "IN". In fact, "IN" is an understatement. The haute new look crossed the runways and reigned supreme in an assortment of colors from burnt sienna to velvety purple. Hence, the Modern Smoky look isn't your typical metallic silver and black combo - although that look will never go out of style. Here are a few examples of the Modern Smoky trend.

Tutorial for Violent Pink Smokey Eye

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aH7Jh1NcvYk

Halloween Procrastinators

2009-10-23T23:19:00.000-07:00

Yikes! One more day until Halloween, and you either...

A) Don't have a costume, or

B) Aren't completely happy with your look

Don't fret! Girlfriend Approved is here to help! Forget the lines and mass-produced costumes at the Halloween Superstore. Head to the mall or your local boutiques where you'll buy stuff that *GASP* you'll actually use and wear again! What a novel idea, I know. Plus, if you already have an outfit, here are a few easy makeup and hair tips to make YOU stand out.

1. Zebra

Makeup Tutorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V5IXHzzH5_g

Hair Tutorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmynRJPl3Q4

Outfit: White/Black shirt and leggings. Go for the Zebra leggings and tail if you want to accessorize further

2. Cruella Deville, Disney's Villain from 101 Dalmations

Makeup Tutorial - True to Costume: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AzhXp5JTslU

Makeup Tutorial - 1950s: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18ha-IHJPiM

Hair Option 1: Black & White Wig

Hair Option 2: Tease hair & use temporary white hair color on one side

Outfit: Black skinny dress, Black Pumps, Faux white-and-black wrap (go to Joanne's Fabric and buy a yard of fabric)

3. Vampire (inspired from HBO's True Blood)

Makeup Tutorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xktMzhBnyd0

Hair Options: Straight iron for Morticia Adams look, Curl & Tease, or Pick a decade (i.e. Vampire from the 20s would have Flapper hair or bob)

Outfit Options: Black and/or red dress, or Pick a decade

4. Mermaid

Makeup Tutorial - Colored Scales: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZ7MF5ObzMY

Makeup Tutoral - Colored Sequins: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iOvDn3h-W6Y

Hair Tutorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wb8zmm71PDM

Outfit: Bright bikini top, Turqoise skirt, Seashell accessories and in hair

5. 20's Flapper

Makeup Tutorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNteXc1D_pc

Hair Tutorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVjSeCZlm1A

Outfit: Sequined or fringed dress (Both dresses from Forever 21 priced at $24.80,)

6. Cleopatra or Goddess

Makeup Tutorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q4O1akW2p0w

Hair: Either Wavy or Straight w/Gold Head Piece

Outfit: White, one-shoulder or draped dress, Gold strappy sandals & Gold accessories

7. Glitter Eyes & Lips Tutorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Du78bT89l1A

8. False Eyelashes Tutorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_c0LI-gr64

9. Dotted Blush Tutorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8aJDZZ1sZcg

R.I.P. Max Factor & Prescriptives

2009-09-22T10:07:00.000-07:00

Damn you, recession!! Ladies, say a heartfelt goodbye to the legendary Max Factor and Prescriptives, then race to your local drugstore to stock up.

MAX FACTOR (STYLE.COM) - Lovers of lipstick, mavens of mascara, bow your heads and please observe a moment of silence for one of makeup’s fallen heroes. In a sad bit of news, Procter & Gamble announced yesterday that it will be phasing out the legendary Max Factor line. “The Makeup of Makeup Artists” will cease to exist stateside come early 2010, and while it will still be sold abroad in more than 70 countries, according to a statement from the company, the fact that one of America’s greatest success stories has reached its denouement strikes us as a real tragedy and one of the more unfortunate consequences the beauty industry has experienced as a result of the recession. Started by Max Faktor (the “c” was a byproduct of immigration processing), a Polish Jew and the makeup artist trusted by the Russian Royal Court, the eponymous brand began as a wig shop and laboratory where Factor created a greasepaint cream in 12 different shades to be used on movie sets. He made fast fans of the silent-film world and created more products to cater to the industry as it evolved, solving the persistent problem of lip pomade’s melting under the hot studio lights by pressing two thumbprints onto an actress’ upper lip and then one thumbprint on her lower lip, thus creating the “cupid’s bow” shape. And when Technicolor film arrived, he formulated the now famous “pan-cake” makeup, which, when applied with a damp sponge, provided a transparent matte finish while concealing small skin blemishes and imperfections. He also personally attended to the faces of Bette Davis, Joan Crawford, and Greta Garbo. We intend to buy up as much of the brand’s new Vivid Impact Lipcolor (a personal favorite) as possible in the coming days, our theory being that every forthcoming application will ensure that Mr. Factor’s legacy lives on.

PRESCRIPTIVES (STYLE.COM) - First Max Factor, now this. In a statement made yesterday, the Estée Lauder Companies announced that it will be closing the global wholesale distribution of its Prescriptives brand by January 31 of next year. According to the official press release, the brand’s long-term business model is “no longer viable given the current market environment.” Its e-commerce site will remain functional for shipments within the U.S. while inventory lasts, though, so if, like us, you’ve come to rely on the unprecedented lash length and fullness that only Prescriptive’s Motor-Eyes can deliver, you might want to buy in bulk.

Two-Toned Lids & Watermelon Pout SPRING FWD VOL. 5

2009-09-21T00:01:00.000-07:00

While most of the make-up at RTW Spring '10 stayed minimal, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors and Derek Lam decided to go full throttle with color!

Top to bottom: Marc by MJ's watermelon pointy pout offers a flirty alternative to sophisticated red lips, but minus the bow and crimped hair unless you would like to revive that old karma-karma-chameleon beast. I think there's a DNR tag on that one, folks. The Kors' look also got my attention with its gray and velvety purple eye-duo. Finally, Nars' Tom Pecheux made a colorful statement with Derek Lam's models. Not only did he apply two-toned shades to their eyes, but bravely proceeded where no makeup artist dared to go. For the final touch, he polished the look off with rosy cheeks and glossy fuschia lips. Please give Mr. Pecheux a Purple Heart for courage. He certainly deserves it!

Haute Hair SPRING FWD VOL. 4

2009-09-20T23:01:00.000-07:00

Ready To Wear Spring '10 showcased everything from wavy bedhead (Erin Wasson x RVCA) to grunge green & purple hair hues (Proenza Schouler). Most notable, however, were Derek Lam's gravity-defying waves, Carolina Herrera's tinsel'd and textured up-do's and Diane von Furstenberg's long crimped locks (first tightly braided then loosened minutes before the show).

Got Milkmaid Braids? SPRING FWD Vol. 3

2009-09-20T21:52:00.000-07:00

It looks like Spring 2010 hair will take another stroll down braid lane. But rather than just the side-to-back fairytale plaits that marked last season, designers produced different interpretations for next spring that ranged from country milkmaid to sporty sophisticate.

At Oscar de la Renta, Spring 2010 hair took on Swiss-Miss proportions, topping heads like a charming, braided halo—complete with interwoven, multi-hued ribbons. Norma Kamali piled it on to create a disheveled, braided lump, ultimately invoking images of a frazzled princess, while Alexander Wang featured a simple, messed-up side braid trailing down models’ shoulders that offset the designer’s sportier collection.

I don’t know about you, but I’m glad Spring 2010 hair will be about the braid again. Perenially pretty, braids are the ideal choice when you’ve got 2-day-old hair, deft fingers, and no time for a blow-out.

Thank you to Katherine Vong @ Trendhunter.com. She is an extraordinary writer & fashionista!

See below for more looks from Oscar de la Renta Spring '10! Neon colors, cat eye's, coral mani's, hats & gold statement jewelry!

White Out! SPRING FWD Vol. 2

2009-09-20T20:41:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows that white liner or shadow can be used on the insides of eyes to make them pop, and Donna Karan's Spring '10 collection did just that. In fact, her runway looks pushed the envelope on this "bright eye" trick. Pair with bangs for an even sexier look.

SPRING FORWARD VOL. 1

2009-09-20T20:10:00.000-07:00

I love the runway looks from Anna Sui's Spring 2010 Collection: Ink black lined eyes, soft-sleek hair (straightened then curled under at ends), rosy cheeks and nude lips. The look paired well with Sui's vibrant colors and patterns.

Hair-sessory Necessity

2009-09-17T16:04:00.000-07:00

Whether it be Feathered, Bejeweled or Pin'd, give your straightening iron a break and let the Hair-sessory do the talkin' for once. Seriously, let.. go.. of the straightening iron. Thank you.

Ice Cream Goes S&M?!

2009-09-15T15:08:00.000-07:00

Think ice cream goes punk with a drizzle of S&M. Mouth-watering, right? If only, we were cool enough to live in London. *Sigh*

I love the fact that ice cream trucks can be cool. Check out the pic below. The Icecreamists have transformed a light-hearted, childhood remembrance into an all-out head-banging attraction. And not head-banging in reference to the brain freeze caused by their frozen concoctions, but full-stage live music shows also featuring their very own "The Queens of Cream". I love a good show.

The Icecreamists @ The Ultralounge, Selfridges, 400 Oxford Street, W1A 1AB

More Bang For Your Lashes

2009-09-06T20:28:00.000-07:00

If you're like me, you abso-friggin-lutely love a deal but also know when to splurge. That $5 eyeliner was a great idea at the register, but not so much when you got home from the bar last night. Yeah been there and couldn't wash my face fast enough. So for this blog, I'm sharing with you my irresistible lash regimen and some cash-saving Skip It's.

1. Latisse: Used daily, this topical treatment - application is very similar to applying eyeliner - can honestly give you longer and fuller natural eyelashes. It comes at a price though. Depending on the salon, the price can range from $100+. If you have the cash though, it's an amazing investment. It's not a one-time deal though, so be prepared to continually use this product if you aim to keep your lashes looking longer and fuller. Also, I found that I used less product by purchasing my own applicator brush. Any thin eyeliner brush will do the trick (see below for a perfect example). Talika Lipocils Gel and RapidLash Eyelash Renewal Serum have also been known to achieve similar results on a smaller budget.

2. Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler: I invested in mine 2 years ago and haven't looked back. My friend, Angela, loves getting ready at my place just so she can use mine haha. I'm telling you it's a cult classic.

3. Mascara That Goes VaVaVoom: Now, I am well aware that there are dozens of beautifying mascara's out there and everyone's lash requisites are different. My friend, Michelle, splurges on the Shu Uemura Mascara Basic while Angela will use anything Lancome. I, on the other hand, will live and die by Dior Diorshow - in black of course. It volumizes, defines, lengthens, never clumps, never flakes and smells like absolute heaven. Give it a try, give it a whiff, and you'll be screaming its praises as well. When my wallet's tight, Maybelline New York Great Lash in Very Black takes care of my eyelash needs.

4. Longlasting Curl: You can achieve this by using your hair blower. Try it 2 ways. One, aim your hair blower at your eyelash curler on low/warm setting for a few seconds. On your first try, remember to test the warmth of the eyelash curler before heading straight to your eye and causing any injury. I don't think that I need to tell you that eye patches were so last year. Second way to use your hair blower - after applying mascara, aim your hair blower at your lashes at a cool/upward setting.

5. Lash Lovely Trend: Bored out of your skull with your lash routine, go edgy, be punk. Urban Decay offers five different shades to coat your lashes with - Black Cherry, Electric Blue, Flipside, Indigo and Purple Haze.

6. Bold Definition: Have you ever noticed that when you wear black eye makeup your lashes magically disappear? Thanks to falsies, we've solved this problem. Great now we can focus on that whole global warming issue. However, in all seriousness, you can also enhance your lash appeal by applying a bright eye shadow such as the shimmery emerald in Nars Misfit Duo to your lids. Instant definition.

7. Apply Falsies Like The Pro's: Most of us look head on into the mirror during this process. For a better view, position a hand mirror below your chin and gaze down.

8. Skip It! Supposed lash-curling mascara's. Some of them may work, but what's the point if you can simply employ your hair blower to do the same thing? Plus, most lash-curling mascara's don't offer other high points such as volume and lengthening.

9. Skip It! Lash tints. I must admit that I was strangely drawn to the new lash tint at Sephora - Tarte 4 Day Stay Stain. In fact, I was just about to purchase it when I asked the woman at the cash register what she thought about the new product. She recommended it for individuals who have naturally fair eyelashes. So if you have brown or dark lashes, just stick to your mascara. It gives you a much better overall look anyway. Also, I've encountered both good and bad reviews for Revlon Colorstay Overtime Lash Tint. There were issues with water and washing, clumping and the worst review of all, brittle lashes. Just say no.

10. Skip It! Lash primer. While extremely effective, it can get pricey having to buy both mascara and the primer. Instead, double your lashes by applying translucent powder prior to your mascara.

Teal, Papaya & Amethyst OH MY!

2009-09-05T18:33:00.000-07:00

Labor Day weekend means buh-bye Summer, and hello Fall. Of all the upcoming trends to look forward to - and there are a lot - I am highly anticipating opulent, eye-catching COLORS! Look for the latest Fall threads in Teal, Papaya and Amethyst.

TEAL

(J.Lo and Blake Lively: above)

Beauty accessories: Berry-stained lips and neutral dove gray mani

Recommended: Lorac Breakthrough Performance lipstick in Icon $22 and Yves Saint Laurent Long-Lasting nail lacquer in Tuxedo Gray $20

Papaya

(Carrie Underwood and Lucy Liu: above)

Beauty accessories: Earth Shades

Recommended: MAC Art Eye Shadow x 4 in Notoriety $36 and OPI nail lacquer in You Don't Know Jacques! $9

Amethyst

(Eva Mendes and Megan Fox: left)

Beauty accessories: Rocker chic smoky eyes and edgy, dark mani

Recommeded: Maybelline New York Expert Wear eye shadow in Night Sky $4 and Nars nail polish in Tokaido Express $16

BIG thank you to In Style magazine for all the makeup recommendations! For full article, refer to InStyle Makeover Fall 2009.

City Girls Rejoice!

2009-09-03T15:36:00.000-07:00

BRIGHT LIGHTS BIG CITY! by Benefit Cosmetics

This set contains:
- 0.37 oz "That Gal" Face Primer
- 0.3 oz BADgal Blue Mascara
- 0.05 oz Eye Bright pencil (my favorite)
- White leatherette travel mirror

*Kit available at Sephora, and Full Sizes available online at Benefit Cosmetics.

Carrie'd Away

2009-09-02T23:31:00.000-07:00

My first impression - Jennifer Beals in Flashdance. Nope, it's def Carrie shooting a scene in the upcoming Sex & The City Movie: Part Deux.

Please comment. I know you can't help yourself. Oh snap.

*Courtesy of Glamour Magazine*

From the Runways - Fall 09 Makeup & Hair

2009-09-02T21:44:00.000-07:00

Makeup & Hair From Jean Paul Gaultier's Fall 2009 Runway

*Hollywood glam, rouge lips and a ton of black liner & shadow

*Makeup by Tom Pecheux

*Hair by Odile Gilbert

Tutorial A: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNTvcG8htzA

Tutorial B: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKbyygW-U8o

Versace Fall 2009 Runway

*Edgy rocker glam, smoldering black eye paired with nude lips and a light pink shimmer on the cheekbones.

*Makeup by Pat McGrath

Tutorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gODNTR95f78

Marc Jacobs Fall 2009 Runway

*80's club kid, bright shapely eyes, metallic lips and unkempt up-do's

* Makeup by Francois Nars

* Hair by Guido Palau

Tutorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zt7gq05OrkI

* All runway looks were provided courtesy of STYLE.com

Humidity Hair Gone Bad

2009-09-01T23:08:00.000-07:00

Dear Hair,

I know you've been suffering because of this God-awful humidity, but never fret. I found the secret cure to keep you voluminous and fresh during the summer heat. Oscar Blandi's PRONTO!!

Love, Girlfriend Approved

Mmm Smells Like Heaven

2009-09-01T12:44:00.000-07:00

An outfit isn't quite complete without a hint of fragrance. A familiar scent can often transport the mind to another place, time, memory. Here are my TOP 3 PARFUM SELECTIONS. Each in a category of its own - sensual, refreshing, erotic. Better yet, each is conveniently available in roll-on size for maximum portability at Sephora. Shameless plug, I know, but how else will you know where to buy it?

1. Stella by Stella McCartney
2. Daisy by Marc Jacobs
3. Shower Fresh by Clean