Stila Mini Lip Glaze Trio for $8
Fashion School Is In Session: Interview With Sydne Summer
Everybody puts their pants on one leg at a time. But while most of us are just throwing on an old pair of faded Levi’s and t-shirt, only a select few would think to pair a $23 skinny white jean with a BCBG leather jacket, Forever 21 lace camisole, Manolo Blahnik gladiator sandals, and assorted silver and black bracelets.Such is the gift of Los Angeles based Fashion Editor, blogger and TV fashion commentator, Sydne Summer. On the Style Network’s website, Mystyle.com, Sydne deconstructs star style, advises real women on how to cop runway and red carpet trends, and interviews style icons. Sydne’s own blog, ThinkThruFashion, provides how-to solutions, fashion and beauty tips, trend breakdowns and pictorial inspiration of clothes on real people.
Recently, I had the opportunity to pick Sydne’s brain and learn some tricks of the trade. If, like me, you’re looking to up your style ante - read on. Sydne’s taking us to fashion school...
SP: When did you first fall in love with fashion?
SS: I can’t pinpoint one exact moment because I have so many childhood memories that involved fashion. I grew up in the 80s and I used to stage photo shoots in my backyard dressed in neon shirts over biker shorts with my hair parted as far to the side as possible. During a family holiday one year, I think I was about seven, I made my younger cousin produce a fashion show while the adults were having cocktails. We made a royal mess in my grandmother’s closet trying on her silk printed tunics and piles of costume jewelry. Then I charged everyone a nickel so they could see us model our creations. And I don’t know when I was first given my dress-up chest but I don’t remember every not having it. Whenever I had a playdate we’d immediately dig in to the box of elbow length gloves, silk pajama gowns and rhinestone shoes and prance around thinking we were Claudia Schiffer.
SP: What was your first big break in fashion?
SS: In college I was interning for Boston Magazine Publications. My editor was planning an event for Elegant Weddings to shows Boston brides how to create a New England-style wedding. I had to research New England based brands and have them ship us samples to use during the event. My editor was really pleased by the assortment of clothing, jewelry and party favors I came up with. She then trusted me to handle bigger projects, which was a great learning experience.
SP: What does it take to succeed in fashion?
SS: To make it in fashion in general, I think you need to study. Not study in the sense of cramming for a law exam but studying everything and anything about fashion. During fashion week, if I can’t make it to the shows I spend hours and hours on Style.com, analyzing each piece and writing down what I like and don’t like about the collection. When I’m out to lunch at the farmers market, I study what people are wearing to observe what works and what doesn’t work on different body types. I’m constantly reading up about designers, pouring over every fashion magazine and just talking to regular people about what they think about the latest trends or what so-and-so was wearing. You just need to absorb everything around you and of course, it doesn’t hurt to have the innate eye for style.
SP: What is your style philosophy? SS: I think the most important thing is to dress for your body type. It doesn’t matter how much you love a trend. If it’s not right for you, you shouldn’t wear it. I have an hourglass shape, so even though I loved the dropped waists that were in style about two years ago I resisted. I knew they wouldn’t look good on me so I admired from afar as my more narrow shaped friends strutted around in the flapper style dresses.
I’m also big on mixing high and low, something I did way before Michelle Obama came along in her J. Crew and Lanvin combos. I splurge on shoes, two handbags a year and dresses I know I’ll wear season after season. Then I head to Forever 21 and stock up on all the trendy stuff I’m loving at that moment—but might get sick of in a few months.
SP: What is the most treasured item in your closet?
SS: My father passed away when I younger so on my 21st birthday my mother made a necklace using the diamond from her engagement ring my father gave her. She set it on a platinum strand with floating diamonds so it would be a present from both of them on my birthday.
SP: If you could spend the day with one fashion icon (living or deceased), who would it be and what would you do?
SS: I’d love to spend the day with Christian Dior. His New Look is perhaps one of my favorite fashions of all time. I’d spend a day with him in Paris and go to my favorite museum, Musee d’Orsay. Dior started in art before becoming a fashion icon. Then we would go to his house and he would create a dress for me that would make me look like Dita von Teese. We’d go out later in the evening and talk about his genius ideas over glasses of champagne.
SP: What makes a woman 'stylish?'
SS: Confidence. I know everyone says this but that’s because it’s true. I think I started gaining this confidence after I stopped comparing myself to other people. I grew up in Miami then moved to Los Angeles as a teenager so I’ve always been around beautiful women with great style. But over the years, I developed my own style and once you start becoming comfortable with your body and your sense of fashion it shows in the way you carry yourself. People would rather look at a woman standing tall and smiling in a Kmart dress than a pouty girl sulking in the corner in couture.
SP: Who are some of your favorite designers of all time? SS: Missoni for prints, Dolce & Gabbana when I want to feel sexy, Chanel for handbags that I can’t afford, Rebecca Taylor and Catherine Malandrino for feminine pieces and Jimmy Choo for classic shoes.
But as much as I love designer pieces, my favorite thing is to mix them with inexpensive finds. I do that in my blog on a daily basis. It’s fun to put an outfit together and have people guess which piece cost $300 and which cost $30. Their guesses are often incorrect, which just goes to show, you don’t need designer good to look good.
SP: Which trends will be big this summer?
SS: Rompers are huge, which I’m super excited about because I never bought one last summer and I’m a big fan of jumpsuits. Cutouts are popular on clothing and bathing suits. Also a big bathing suit trend is the one shoulder, which we know is extremely popular for dresses as well. Maxi dresses are everywhere, I especially like them paired with a bib necklace, another trend for spring and summer. As people get more tan, they’re going to start wearing one of the hottest colors this season: bright pink. And as we’ve seen on Rihanna, Lindsay Lohan, Victoria Beckham and just about every other celebrity, denim is distressed. Plus, the boyfriend jean is still going strong.
SP: Which trend(s) do you wish would die?
SS: I hate over-the-knee boots. I’ve seen maybe one person pull this look off: Diane Kruger in Tommy Hilfiger. But the majority of time, the thigh high boots just look like Pretty Woman, pre-Julia Roberts’ classy makeover. Then there is the harem pant that just won’t seem to go away. They’re still popular for summer, which means we’re going to see plenty more baggy crotches on the red carpet.
SP: Current handbag obsessions?
SS: I am absolutely obsessed with Valentino’s spring collection. Of course, I can’t afford even a fraction of any of the handbags but I could sit and stare at the floral masterpieces all day. They truly look like pieces of art. Just look at this one!
SP: Which celebrities would you love to style and why?
SS: Anne Hathaway. I love feminine, elegant pieces and I can’t think of any current star who looks better in them than Anne. Recently she’s tried to look edgy, wearing suits and leather but to me, she looks best as a classic beauty. But truthfully, I’d rather style women that really need help, rather than those that have Marc Jacobs on speed dial. I get more enjoyment out of helping a friend realize how amazing her body when she has the right clothing.
SP: Where are your favorite places to shop?
SS: I recently got in to the whole vintage thing and even if I don’t buy anything, I have a blast shopping at thrift stores. My favorite one in L.A. is Jet Rag. I got this 80s velvet dress, cut off the skirt and now it looks just like a Balmain top, shoulder pads and all. I can’t wait to wear it with jeans this fall. For trendy items, I always go to Forever 21. And for my splurges I wait until Saks has their huge sales and stock up on everything I’ve been coveting online.
SP: What tips do you have for women who want star style on a budget?
SS: Don’t try to copy a star from head to toe. If Beyonce is wearing Balmain and you try to find the exact same $11, 000 jacket for $11 you’ll just look like a cheaper version of Beyonce. In my blog, I always recommend to take inspiration from celebrity style instead of copying it. Figure out what you like about their style and find ways to make it your own. Earlier this year I really liked Cameron Diaz’s all-American look. But I didn’t try to find an exact replica of her striped Michael Kors dress. Instead I thought about what it was I liked about her style and kept that in mind when I went shopping. Things always look more expensive when they’re original—or at least when they’re styled in a creative way.
SP: Can you share some figure-slimming fashion tips?
SS:
1) Create the illusion of long legs by wearing shoes that match your skin color.2) Show off your best feature. Mine is my waist, so I’m always cinching everything with belts. My friend has the hottest legs, so you’ll usually find her hiding her stomach with a billowy top and showing off her gams in a mini. My mother has amazing shoulders, so she always looks thinner when she wears a shell or halter.
3) Wear monochromatic outfits. If you wear all black, navy, brown, etc, it will create the illusion of a longer and leaner figure.
4) And if all else fails throw on some statement jewelry. If you have sparkly earrings or a unique necklace, nobody will notice you’re having a fat day.
SP: What are three fashion accessories every woman should own?
SS:
1) Black pumps: They add instant sex appeal and never go out of style.
2) A bright or metallic clutch: It makes sure a LBD isn’t boring and dresses up a pair of jeans.
3) A tan leather carryall: If I could only have one bag, it would be my cognac Foley + Corinna hobo. I can wear it with black, brown or navy and the more worn the leather gets, the better the bag looks.
SP: What products are staples in your makeup bag?
SS: Mascara is a must. It’s an instant pick me up when I haven’t slept. I switch on and off between L’Oreal Telescopic Mascara and Stila Convertible Mascara. For lips, I’ve been carrying around a tub of Rosebud Salve since my freshman year of college. But recently I’m addicted to C.O. Bigelow Mint Lip Tint Gloss. The coral has just a touch of color and the minty flavor is refreshing. I also need a bronzer. Whenever I’m laying out on the beach I always cover my face with a towel or wife beater. So my face obviously is just a tad lighter than my body. Bare Escentuals A Little Sun is great because it gives me a natural glow. I start on my cheekbones then lightly dust the rest of my face.
Stick Em Up: Miss Oops Show Stoppers
These adhesive silicone nipple covers are the perfect weapon to prevent "perk out." Show Stoppers are tapered at the edges making them invisible under garments. Plus they're reusable up to 15 times.
Miss Oops Show Stoppers are summer must haves; and I don't leave home without them when I travel to NYC for Fashion Week. Go get you some at missoops.com. You're welcome...it's my pleasure to keep you, ahem, abreast of undergarment innovations.
Makeup Bag Maximalist
The Beauty Girls Weekend Read
TheMakeupGirl is having a summer contest and is giving away select items from MAC's latest Style Warrior.Spoiled Pretty is giving away $364 worth of warm weather beauty must-haves to help you beat the heat and keep you looking hot this summer!
This weekend, sponsored by Gillette Venus, Amber from Beauty Blogging Junkie will be heading to LA to do a special "legs edition" of red carpet reporting at the MTV Movie Awards. Click here to access her live tweets and be sure to check out the Gillette Venus Facebook page as well.
All About The Pretty is swooning over the Yarok Hair Treatment she got from the Hiro Haraguchi Salon in NYC.
Makeup Loves Me has a sneak peek at the new Avon Pro 3-in-1 lip wand that she has stuffed in her bag for her vacation!!
Beautiful Makeup Search takes a look at the brand new Bobbi Brown Illuminating Bronze Collection.
What beauty blogger has the BIGGEST travel makeup bag of them all? Get the scoop at Makeup Bag.
Follow the Beauty Girls on Twitter:
All About The Pretty @aatp
Beautiful Makeup Search @beautyblogger
Beauty Blogging Junkie @fabulista
Makeup Bag @makeupbag
Makeup Loves Me @makeuplovesme
Spoiled Pretty @spoiledpretty
TheMakeupGirl @themakeupgirl
Photo: adclassix.com
New Foaming Body Wash at Bath & Body Works!
Two weeks ago while visiting with my parents, I tried my sister's Japanese Cherry Blossom body products from Bath & Body Works...and ever since, I've been jonesing for my own. So today on my lunch break, I paid a visit to my local store to pick up the Creamy Body Wash and Body Cream.Lucky for me, Bath & Body Works was having a sale: buy 2, get 1 free (Signature Collection). So after I tossed the body wash and lotion in my basket, I set out to find a third product that would be the charm. When I came across a display for the brand spankin' new Foaming Body Wash, I knew I'd found it.
The Signature Foaming Body Wash gently cleanses skin, leaving it fresh, clean and lightly fragranced. High-foaming and oil-free, this nourishing formula soothes with apple and oat extracts so skin feels soft, conditioned and ultra-pampered. It's basically my favorite hand soap, in a body wash formulation. Available in six fragrances, I picked up a bottle of the Coconut Lime Verbena. I suggest you do the same.
Secret Handbag Sale Tomorrow at Ideeli.com
"We are having a very secret handbag sale," said the informant. "We can't tell you the name but we guarantee this Italian made line is HUGE. Here is a hint, this designer won the Neiman Marcus award in 1947...."
Here's the answer, peeps: SALVATORE FERRAGAMO!!!
Ideeli membership is free...click here for an invite, courtesy of Spoiled Pretty.
One Day Only: Bobbi Brown Stops By QVC on May 30th
Legendary makeup artist, author and entrepreneur Bobbi Brown is scheduled to make three, one-hour QVC appearances this Saturday, May 30 at midnight, 11 AM and 5 PM (EST). She'll share her unique beauty philosophy, revolutionary cosmetics and expert advice.Bobbi Brown's signature line of wearable, natural looking makeup will be showcased throughout the day - offering QVC shoppers a selection of new and best-selling items.
To tide you over until Saturday, click here for an informative Q&A with Bobbi.
Bumpy Ride: A Long Journey To Rid My Legs Of Hair Bumps
Since I hit puberty, I've been cursed with hair bumps on my legs. Because the hair on my legs is coarse and grows in a curly pattern, sometimes as the hair grows out, it curls back under the skin into the same follicle. And because the hair is trapped under the skin, even after I shave, I still have many unsightly ingrown hairs.The condition isn't physically painful, like razor bumps; but it is emotionally painful, as I've spent many years hiding this condition beneath long skirts and pants - even during the dog days of summer.
For half of my life, I've had a serious case of leg envy. Every time I see a woman with silky smooth gams, I selfishly hope that she silently suffers from stretch marks, bacne or some other embarrassing ailment that isn't apparently obvious. It just isn't fair!
I've tried a million and one products and techniques to solve the problem...and while I've yet to discover a panacea, I have found a temporary solution.
To keep hair bumps to a minimum, here are my shaving suggestions:
1) Don't start shaving as soon as you get into the shower/bath; allow the steam and warm water to soften the skin and hair.
2) Next, exfoliate (like all get out) with a scrub that won't irritate skin. Right now, I'm enamored with LaLicious Coconut Cream Sugar Soufflé Scrub, an all-natural sugar scrub made with coconut oil that absorbs quickly and easily into skin, leaving it moisturized and protected without feeling greasy. Pure cane sugar crystals buff away dead skin cells while sweet almond and vitamin-e oils condition, moisturize, and smooth you to perfection. And it smells amazing; if heaven has a tropical all-inclusive resort, this is probably what it smells like. By exfoliating, you will release the ingrown hairs that are trapped beneath the skin.
3) Slather your legs with an ultra-hydrating shave cream; I'm a fan of eos Shave Cream, which is so moisturizing, you can shave wet or dry (though I recommend wet). Then shave with a new or relatively new razor; the sharper, the better. Gillette's Venus Embrace razor takes shaving to a whole new level of smoothness with 5 blades that deliver a dramatically close shave.
4) Finally, when you emerge from the bath/shower, don't towel off completely. While your legs are still a smidge wet, slather on lotion or body butter. Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Lotion is an excellent choice because it heals, softens, and tones - plus an 8.5 oz bottle costs less than $5!
Even if you don't have issues with ingrown hairs (I hate you...just kidding...okay, not really), you can benefit from my bumpy journey to smooth stems. The above routine is highly recommended for achieving your closest shave ever.
Even if you don't have issues with ingrown hairs (I hate you...just kidding...okay, not really), you can benefit from my bumpy journey to smooth stems. The above routine is highly recommended for achieving your closest shave ever.
Benefit and Sephora Make Beautiful Music Together
Click here, enter promo code MAKEYOURMIX, and get your groove on.
Ms. Pedicure Giveaway Winners
Congrats to the winners of the Ms. Pedicure giveaway: Tonya Keener, Danielle Lopenski, Jennifer Moran.These readers will soon show their tore up tootsies some salon-worthy love with Ms. Pedicure Foot Spahh, the ultimate luxury for reviving and refreshing those tired legs and feet. Housed in a reusable tote, this all-inclusive kit packs a punch with everything that a girls needs to repair her damaged and over-worked feet without breaking the bank!
Many thanks to Ms. Pedicure for sponsoring the contest!
If you didn't win, don't get mad...get glad. There are many more opportunities for you to get spoiled pretty. See what else I'm giving away this week!
Upcoming Sales on Ideeli.com
Sale starts Thursday, May 28
Prices start at $64 (save up to 60% off)
Pade Vavra Sale
Sale starts Friday, May 29
Prices start at $109 (save up to 63% off)
Ideeli membership is free...click here for an invite, courtesy of Spoiled Pretty.
Sale starts Friday, May 29
Prices start at $109 (save up to 63% off)
Ideeli membership is free...click here for an invite, courtesy of Spoiled Pretty.
Trina Turk For Clinique Gift With Purchase
* Lash Doubling Mascara in Black
* Different Lipstick in Tenderheart
* Blushwear Cream Stick in Rosy Blush
* Superfit Makeup (choose from three shades)
* Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion
* Colour Surge Eye Shadow Duo in Sunburst
* Take The Day Off Makeup Remover for Lids, Lashes & Lips
"I’ve created a vibrant, floral cosmetics bag and paired it with must-have skin care and makeup essentials from Clinique in one great gift. The shades go great with just about any daytime outfit and together it makes the perfect summer-time accessory." -Trina Turk
If you were thinking about buying the Clinique Sun with SolarSmart products I raved about on the NBC 10! Show, here's an incentive to open your wallet.
The Trina Turk for Clinique Gift is available free with any purchase of $25 or more (a $65 value). Available exclusively at Nordstrom stores nationwide and Nordstrom.com, now through June 6, 2009.
Here's A Dry Idea: Apply Antiperspirant To Your Face!
Last night, Jerrod Blandino, creator of Too Faced Cosmetics, appeared on The Daily 10 - sharing tips to meltproof your makeup. Most of the tricks were somewhat obvious (like wearing waterproof mascara), but one was absolutely genius:To keep perspiration from forming along the hairline, mix a small amount of clear antiperspirant with liquid foundation and apply.
Will you try this trick?
Stila Indian Summer Collection Now Available!
Introducing Stila Indian Summer: get gorgeous with 24kt gold!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Summer Beauty Staples on the NBC 10! Show
Watch my latest NBC 10! Show appearance to hear about my favorite summer beauty staples!
If you don't know me by now, you will never never never know me...
This week, I'm gifting one of you with a plethora of products that will help you beat the heat and keep you looking hot all summer long!
Clinique Sun with SolarSmart is a new line of sunscreens that protect against both UVA and UVB rays. The formula is non-greasy, oil-free, water and sweat resistant, yet appropriate for sensitive skin. The range includes: SPF 30 Face Cream, SPF 50 Face Cream, SPF 30 Body Cream, SPF 50 Body Cream, SPF 15 Face/Body Cream, SPF 25 Body Spray, SPF 45 Targeted Protection Stick, and Rescue Balm with Aloe.
ModelCo Body Meringue Bronze Glow is an instant bronze shimmer and gradual self-tanner, in a mousse formula. This weightless foam firms the skin while offering a light buildable, natural tan. After smoothing the foam on, a light instant bronze appears so you can see exactly where you've applied. And over the next few hours, your tan gradually deepens. The best thing about Body Meringue, IMO, is it's skin firming properties; it contains an ingredient that helps minimize the appearance of cellulite. Can you even? And if you want to kick your tan up a notch, mist on ModelCo’s Shimmer Airbrush Illuminiser over tanned skin for a sparkly effect. My little secret tip is to spray it in your hair, which looks beyond amazing on all hair colors!
If the Philadelphia heat and humidity turn your face into an oil slick, I feel you. I get shiny too, and it’s very embarrassing and it’s a high-maintenance situation. Philosophy’s Never Let Them See You Shine line of skincare products are specifically designed to control oil. The Cleanser deep cleans pores and the Scrub gently exfoliates. The Primer creates a matte finish, and can be applied on bare skin or mixed with foundation.
Secret Clinical Waterproof Antiperspirant and Deodorant offers all-day protection through heat and humidity, or after being in the water. So it’s ideal in the city, at the pool, or at the shore. The formula is skin soothing, and Secret Clinical Waterproof is designed with two-click applicator to ensure that the right amount of product is delivered to the underarm area with each use.
In the summertime, you want to choose a lighter fragrance because heavier winter scents can become cloying in the warmer months. I’ve found the perfect summer scent: Citron de Vigne Eau de Parfum by Fresh. Inspired by France’s Champagne region, the fragrance has crisp, lemony top notes, a heart of pinot noir and an earthy base. Citron de Vigne is unisex, so buy a bottle and your entire household can share!
This prize is worth over $360!
To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address. The subject line should read "Summer Beauty Staples Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Monday, June 1st. One winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Tuesday, June 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. and Canadian residents.
Good luck!
This prize is worth over $360!
To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address. The subject line should read "Summer Beauty Staples Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Monday, June 1st. One winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Tuesday, June 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. and Canadian residents.
Good luck!
Interview With Author Kyra Davis, Plus A Giveaway!
When I’m not writing, I’m reading - and one of my favorite literary genres is chick lit, particularly mysteries. Give me a candy colored book, with a headstrong heroine embroiled in a harebrained whodunit, and I’m a happy gal.Writing an engaging chick-lit mystery is, undeniably, an art...but author Kyra Davis also has the formula down to a science. In 2005, she released her first book, Sex, Murder and a Double Latte. That summer, while browsing the fiction section of my local Barnes & Noble, the colorful title and cover caught my attention; so I decided to take a chance on an unknown author.
The exploits of protagonist Sophie Katz had me laughing out loud and turning pages at a feverish pace. The story was so entertaining that I bought a book light, to read into the wee hours without disturbing Mr. Spoiled Pretty’s beauty sleep. When the series’ second and third installments (Passion, Betrayal and Killer Highlights and Obsession, Deceit and Really Dark Chocolate) hit shelves in 2006 and 2007, I was first in line to snag me some more Sophie.
Next month, the long-awaited fourth book, Lust, Loathing And A Little Lip Gloss, makes its debut - and I’m so excited, I almost can’t stand it. How did I make it through last summer without Sophie shenanigans?
I’m so keyed up that I needed something to tide me over until the novel’s June 1st release. So I contacted Kyra Davis and proposed a Q&A; and despite her busy schedule, she happily agreed to talk literature and lip gloss.
Enjoy the interview!
SP: Give us a teaser about your new book, “Lust, Loathing And A Little Lip Gloss.”KD: Sophie has finally decided that she is ready to make a lifetime commitment to the one she loves…a three bedroom Victorian with a yard. She wants the house so badly she’s willing to deal with the fact that her obnoxious ex-husband is the realtor representing it and she’ll meet all of the seller’s crazy conditions. She’s not dissuaded by the house’s possible dark history or even the accounts by some that it’s haunted. It’s not until people associated with the house start dying that she becomes concerned particularly when she begins to suspect that she herself is a target.
SP: Are you anything like the series’ protagonist, Sophie Katz?
KD: People always assume that Sophie and I are one of the same but that’s only true in the most superficial way. That is to say that we share the same ethnicity, she lives in San Francisco and I have lived in San Francisco and we’re both authors. But her approach to life is incredibly different than mine. We have different issues and different ways of expressing ourselves and our relationships to our families and partners are about as dissimilar as you can get. And yet I can’t completely disassociate myself. Sophie came from my mind, which means she’s a part of me just as her friends are a part of me. I guess you could say that they are individuals and I’m the composite character.
SP: When did you know that you wanted to be a writer?
KD: When I started writing the first Sophie book (Sex, Murder And A Double Latte). I was just messing around at the time I started penning that story. It didn’t occur to me that I might want to publish it until I was about fifty pages into it.
SP: Where do you like to write your books (in bed, a coffee shop, an office)?
KD: Starbucks. Starbucks is my office and my energy source. It completes me.
SP: Of all the books you’ve published thus far, what was the most difficult one for you to write? Do you have a favorite of them all?
KD: This last book, Lust, Loathing And A Little Lip Gloss, is my favorite book so far. Before I wrote that I would have said that Passion, Betrayal And Killer Highlights was my favorite Sophie book and that So Much For My Happy Ending was my favorite book overall.
On an emotional level So Much For My Happy Ending was the most difficult to write because it was basically a fictionalized memoir. But So Much For My Happy Ending has also been my most rewarding work thanks to the dozens of emails of I’ve gotten from women fresh out of destructive relationships who were inspired by that novel. I’ve even heard from a few women who found the strength to leave abusive relationships that they were currently in after reading So Much For My Happy Ending so that book will always have a special place in my heart.
SP: Is there a genre you haven’t written in yet that you would really like to try?
KD: FANTASY! I love all those books about witches and vampires. I was able to play with some fantasy elements in Lust, Loathing And A Little Lip Gloss by having Sophie buy a house that is believed to be haunted but I had to be very cautious about how I crafted the story so as not to stray too far from the story’s genre. In the end the reader will be able to decide if they think there was ever anything supernatural going on or not.
SP: What comes first: the title or the idea? KD: Always the idea. If I had my way I’d come up with a title after the whole book was completed but unfortunately the art department at my publishing house needs the title before my editor needs the finished book. Obsession, Deceit And Really Dark Chocolate is an irritating example of that issue. I had to give the art department a title about six months before my manuscript was due and the result was that the title didn’t fit the novel as much as I would have liked it to.
SP: Do you put friends or relatives in your books? Have any of them recognized themselves?
KD: I’ve often used friends as a jumping off point for characters. People don’t recognize themselves because by the time the characters are developed they really are their own people. What amuses me is how people who I NEVER thought of while writing the book think a character is based on them. If they like the character I rarely tell them they’re wrong.
SP: How do you come up with the names for your characters?
KD: I’m not good with names. I didn’t even name my own son. I just accepted the first name his dad suggested. So with the exception of Sophie (who is named after my grandmother) my characters get their names from whatever newspaper or magazine happens to be near by. I’ll take the first name of one journalist and the last name of another. If that doesn’t work I drag out the baby name book.
SP: Who is your favorite literary heroine and why?
KD: At the moment I think it’s Tiffany Aching from Terry Pratchett’s YA series. Most men don’t write women well but Pratchett’s the major exception. Tiffany is smart, she takes care of people without ever getting sentimental or in anyway syrupy about it and she’s seriously tough without losing her femininity.
SP: What's the last book you read that you couldn't put down?
KD: The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls. I had it with me everywhere just so I could sneak in a few pages between errands. I left it at my boyfriend’s apartment one day and as soon as I realized what I’d done I ran to the bookstore and bought myself another copy because I simply couldn’t wait for him to return it to me.
SP: If Lust, Loathing And A Little Lip Gloss was made into a movie, who would you want to play the lead role?
KD: I would LOVE to see Rashida Jones in the role. She does comedy and she projects certain strength. She ethnically ambiguous and…. well, I could go on and on. Rashida if you’re reading this give me a call.
SP: Okay, you know I have to throw in a beauty-related question. Speaking of lip gloss, which ones are your favorites?
KD: I’m a MAC girl. They have every color you could ever want and an awesome applicator.
SP: Is this the last of the series, or is Sophie just getting warmed up?
KD: Vows, Vengeance And A Little Black Dress is the Sophie book I'm writing now. Look for it in June 2010.
Kyra and I are so excited about Lust, Loathing And A Little Lip Gloss that we're teaming up to give away five autographed copies!
To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address. The subject line should read "Lust, Loathing And A Little Lip Gloss Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Sunday, May 31st. Five winners will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Monday, June 1st, 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. and Canadian residents.
Good luck...and may the lip gloss be with you!
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