Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Bumble and bumble Partners with Rock Musical HAIR

Here’s a little something I bet you didn’t know about me: I’m a musical theater nut. Since I was cast as Gretl von Trapp in Merion Mercy Academy’s 1985 production of The Sound of Music, I’ve been passionate about plays... particularly ones where the cast spontaneous erupts into harmonized song and choreographed dance.

Needless to say, as a beauty buff and musical geek, I was very excited when the following email arrived in my inbox:

Last summer’s twice-extended, sold-out production of HAIR: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical, is moving to Broadway and Bumble and bumble is along for the ride, continuing their relationship with the show as its exclusive hair care partner.

As part of the relationship, Bumble and bumble granted Michael McDonald, Costume Designer for HAIR, full access to its services and products. McDonald said, “The 60s hippie hair never had it so good. With Bumble and bumble cut and color and their gentle shampoos and conditioners, “hippies” for the new millennium can get that natural look that never seems to go out of style.” Bumble and bumble stylists worked closely with McDonald to make sure the hair of HAIR remains true to its concept – locks with great natural texture, with a flower child edge.

Bumble and bumble editorial hairstylist Rolando Beauchamp, who has worked with Mary Kate Olsen, Kristen Davis and Christina Applegate, provides some styling tips for anyone who wants to get this loose, natural flower child look that’s great for spring:

For wavy or curly hair:
The key is keeping the hair’s natural texture, just helping it out with some product that gives it some support. Spritz Bb Surf Spray ($22) onto damp hair, and work about a quarter size amount of Bb Styling Creme ($23) into hair, mid-shaft to ends. The combination of Surf Spray and Styling Creme gives the right texture – a bit dry, not greasy. Dry with a diffuser or let air dry if it is warm out. The key is not to brush or comb out, just finger style and let it be free!

For straight hair:
Begin just like curly/wavy technique with Bb Surf Spray and Styling Creme, but you’ll need at waves to the hair. Using a 1 inch barrel curling iron, take 1 inch diameter sections of hair and roughly wrap the hair around the iron. The goal is to create bends and waves in the hair, not perfect curls. Then scrunch the section up and pin to the head. Continue curling sections, wrapping the hair in alternating directions, then scrunching and pinning the sections until the entire head is pinned up. Let the hair set for a few minutes, then undo sections. Don’t brush the sections out, just finger style.

Products available at bumbleandbumble.com.

Photo credit: Joan Marcus

Recessionista's Fabuless Pick of the Week: Claw Clip That Won't Give You a Headache

Mama Spoiled Pretty kidnapped me on Saturday. Well - not for real, for real. Kidnapping is the term my sister and I use to describe my mom’s habit of holding us hostage during an otherwise enjoyable shopping excursion. This is usually how it goes down…

Mom proposes a shopping trip to one of our favorite destinations: Banana Republic, Bloomingdale’s, DSW, Forever 21, Lord & Taylor, Marshall’s, Nordstrom, Sephora, or TJ Maxx. So we get in Mom’s car and drive off, hoping that whatever we’re hunting for will be waiting for us at the store, in our size, perched on the sale rack. After a few hours of retail therapy, our dogs start barking and we get into the car to drive back to my parents’ house…or so Lauren and I think.

When we’re almost back home, my mother veers off course - and next thing you know, we’re somewhere not fun, like Walmart. And it’s never a quick trip either. Mom will spend 45 minutes pushing her cart up and down aisles before she even starts looking for what's on her list. And Lauren and I revert to preschool-ish behavior - like whining or saying we have to go to the bathroom - to encourage Mom to move faster than molasses.

But I have to admit that being kidnapped this past weekend wasn’t too bad. While my sister occupied herself carrying out her signature prank (Lauren likes to throw a couple of random items into Mom’s shopping cart, just to watch her hilarious reaction at the register), I killed time in the beauty aisle. I was in desperate need of a hair clip, so I perused the selection from Goody. Goody has never let me down before, so I picked up their new Ouchless Flexible Claw Clip. Not only did this clip not disappoint, I was pretty impressed - because it holds your hair in place without the annoying inconveniences of other claw clips.

First, the clip has covered hinges, which eliminates snags. Second, the teeth are curved in a way that prevents them from digging into your scalp - love that! Finally, the teeth are flexible - so go ahead and lean back, lean back, lean back, lean back. The people at Goody are a bunch of Albert Einsteins, I’ll tell you what.

For less than $4, you get two medium-sized clips…plus motivation to throw out all of those inferior claw clips that have been a pain in your cranium all of these years.

Monday, March 30, 2009

Oscar Blandi Pronto Wet Volumizing Collection Giveaway

Good day, m'ladies. I'm feeling extra generous this week, so I'm partnering with Oscar Blandi for another Spoiled Pretty giveaway. Yay!

Calling all Pronto Dry Shampoo fans! Get the same botanical, paraben-free cleansing by alternating your dry-shampoo routine with Pronto Wet Instant Volumizing Shampoo and Conditioner, used on the days you do wash your hair with water, to remove build-up, enhance moisture, and instantly boost volume.

Oscar Blandi Pronto Wet Instant Volumizing Shampoo purifies hair, removing build-up and instantly boosting volume. Designed to work alternately with Pronto Dry Shampoo, Pronto Wet is the perfect cleanser for the full-wash days on your coif calendar. Save time with Pronto Dry every other day or when you're on the run.

Oscar Blandi Pronto Wet Instant Volumizing Conditioner moisturizes, detangles, enhances fullness, and delivers quick-drying benefits for a fuss-free good hair day. Pronto Wet Instant Volumizing Conditioner is an essential part of a new regimen created for cleansing and moisturizing your hair. It is designed to work in combination with Pronto Wet Instant Volumizing Shampoo and Blandi's best-selling Pronto Dry Shampoo. This advanced conditioner harnesses the power clinically proven AquaFlex technology to deliver velvety-soft hair.

These good-for-you, botanical-packed formulas leave hair full, healthy, and scented with Pronto's signature lemon verbena fragrance. And one lucky winner will receive both the Wet Instant Volumizing Shampoo and Conditoner - a $48 value!

To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address. The subject line should read "Oscar Blandi Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Sunday, April 5th. One winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Monday, April 6th, 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.

Good luck!

Glam-orous Giveaway, Sponsored by Rodial

Taking off your makeup has never been so glamorous, thanks to Rodial Glam Balm Wipes. These cleansing towelettes, suitable for even the most delicate skin types, gently remove all traces of makeup from the face, lips and around the eyes. The special formulation is enriched with natural bisabolol, vitamin E, provitamin B5 and chamomile extracts which give these wipes their protective and moisturizing properties.

On the nights when I’m too lazy to take off my face, I love using Glam Balm Wipes because they easily remove all traces of my makeup - even stubborn eyeliner and mascara - without leaving my skin feeling dry and stripped. Natural and paraben-free, these wipes are the balm!

This week, Spoiled Pretty is partnering with Rodial for a glam-orous giveaway. Five winners will receive a package of Glam Balm Wipes!

To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address. The subject line should read "Rodial Glam Balm Wipes Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Sunday, April 5th. Five winners will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Monday, April 6th, I'll announce the winners’ names. Please, only one entry per person; duplicate entries will not increase your chances of winning. Contest is open to U.S. and Canadian residents only.

Good luck!

Spoiled Pretty Interview with Style Expert Jess Zaino

Celebrity stylist and television personality Jess Zaino is the girl you want by your side on a fashion-finding mission. With her unique brand of New York sass mixed with Los Angeles insider style, Jess has become one of the most recognizable faces on the style scene.

I’ve been following Jess’ career since her stint as co-host of the Style Network’s Modern Girls Guide to Life. Since then, Jess has entertained and enlightened fashion-challenged gals as the on-air stylist for Style Network shows How Do I Look?, Style Court, and The Look for Less. Her expertise has also been featured on E!, TV Guide Channel, and USA. Most recently, Jess competed on VH1’s Glam God with Vivica A. Fox.

Despite her busy sched, Jess found time to talk fashion trends and share some of her style secrets. Enjoy!

SP: When did you first fall in love with fashion?
JZ:
There was a show on when I was a kid called Webster with Emanuel Lewis. In the opening sequence, he wore a pair of green striped Adidas. I loved those shoes!! I made my mom get them for me and wore them everyday for years. It was then that I realized I could really get into my own sense of fashion.

SP: What was your first big break as stylist?
JZ:
Making deconstructed tee-shirts that I wore as a co-host on a music show. It caught the attention of Kelly Osbourne and a stylist was born.

SP: What does it take to succeed as a fashion stylist?
JZ:
To have an eye for style, detail, art and trends and to apply it perfectly to a look, whether it be on a celeb, a personal client or in a magazine.

SP: What is your style philosophy?
JZ:
Follow your own fashion trends always!

SP: If you could spend the day with one fashion icon (living or deceased), who would it be and what would you do?
JZ:
Oooh, this is a toughie. I have so many. A young Elizabeth Taylor, Diane Vreeland, Coco Chanel, Sophia Loren, Marilyn Monroe, Marlene Dietrich, Kate Moss. We would have morning tea and biscuits at the Chateau Marmont and inspire each other with our thoughts on the ways of the world.

SP: What makes a woman stylish?
JZ:
When she is confident in her look.

SP: Who are some of your favorite designers of all time?
JZ:
Valentino, Chanel, Oscar De La Renta, Calvin Klein, Moschino, Shoshanna, Charlotte Ronson, and Jennifer Meyer.

SP: Which trends will be big this spring and summer?
JZ:
Bright and BIG floral prints on mini dresses. Global chic floor-length dresses. Graphic tees and DIY denim shorts. Ornamented bangle bracelets. Strappy wedge heels.

SP: Which trend(s) do you wish would die?
JZ:
Those thin headbands worn at the forehead. Ugg, as in ick. And also, yes, Uggs.

SP: Chicest color combinations for spring/summer?
JZ:
Any bright, pop-y colors with black.

SP: Current handbag obsession?

JZ: My own clutch at StreetChicbyJessZaino.com.

SP: Which celebrities are you dying to style and why?
JZ:
I had a dream that I styled Britney Spears the other day. That was fun.

SP: Where are your favorite places to shop?
JZ:
The new TopShop on Broadway in NYC and GiltGroupe.com.

SP: What tips do you have for women who want star style on a budget?
JZ:
Take a look thru the mags and see what your favorite stars are wearing. Take those pix to a Forever 21, H&M or Target and sho' nuff, they'll be selling the look for less.

SP: Can you share some figure-slimming fashion tips?
JZ:
Draw attention to your best asset. Single color-schemes work. Don't wear clingy or shiny coz that will pick up all the bumps and lumps. Wear pants that are slightly below your waist. And high heels will always elongate a look, lift the bum and make you look drop dead sexy.

SP: What are three accessories every woman should own?
JZ:
Fab sunglasses. Fab earrings. Big, fat, fab cocktail rings - Nicole Richie's House of Harlow line rocks around the clock.

SP: What products are staples in your makeup bag?
JZ:
Clinique full coverage foundation, NARS The Multiple for cheeks, Chanel cream eye shadow, Cover Girl mascara, MAC Russian Red lipstick and travel-sized spritzer of Stella McCartney's Stella.

SP: What other passions do you have besides fashion?
JZ:
Traveling, reading, yoga, long walks, spa-ing, family-ing.

SP: What music are you listening to right now?
JZ:
This very second? Spank Rock on my iPod.

SP: What’s next for Jess Zaino?
JZ:
I am a launching an ultra-sexy and chic, menswear-inspired button-down for women entitled The Boyfriend Shirt for SEW (a men's bespoke shop in NYC). Help me make it iconic! Stay in touch at TheBoyfriendShirt.com - I've also got a couple of television and online tricks up my sleeve. Be a friend at MySpace.com/Superdeluxestyle.


June Jacobs Vanda Orchid Giveaway Winner Revealed!

Congrats to the winner of the June Jacobs Vanda Orchid Giveaway winner,
Adrian Rosen. Adrian will receive new June Jacobs Vanda Orchid Collection, which includes Vanda Orchid Shower Gel, Vanda Orchid Body Balm, Vanda Orchid Mist and Vanda Orchid Dry Oil Body Spray.

Thanks to June Jacobs for sponsoring the contest, and stay tuned for your next chance to get Spoiled Pretty!

Sunday, March 29, 2009

My Latest MAC Acquisition: Plushglass in Fulfilled

When it comes to a MAC products, my sister and I are drawn to them like moths to a flame. So when we visited the Willow Grove Mall a few days ago with Mama Spoiled Pretty, it was no surprise that we couldn’t escape without a visit to the MAC counter at Bloomingdale’s. What was supposed to be swift stopover ended up being a half-hour spending spree.

While Lauren let the makeup artist paint her eyes in hues of blue, I made a beeline for the lip glosses - swatching at least a dozen on my inner arm. And my low-maintenance mom looked on in awe, wondering how she birthed such product-addicted daughters. When Lauren’s makeover was complete, she joined me in playing with the glosses. I asked for her opinion of MAC Plushglass in Fulfilled, which I was seriously considering adding to my collection. “It’s sick,” she exclaimed. So I decided to buy it...and so did she.

Though it’s described as ‘full-blush creamy pink,’ I think that cantaloupe-y cream pink would be more accurate. As you can see in the photo, it wears super sheer - and inflates the lips without the burning sting that accompanies many lip plumpers.

I love this formula and adore this shade. And while my lip gloss collection is incalculable, I definitely feel like a void has been filled by Fulfilled. It will be my go-to non-shimmery gloss when I’m playing up my eyes, but I still want a come-hither kisser.

Spoiled Pretty Featured in Russian Vogue!

Spoiled Pretty has the best readers in the world, literally. Today, Galina from Skin Care and Beauty, sent me a scan of a Spoiled Pretty feature in Russian Vogue! She was looking through some back issues, and found an article about Spoiled Pretty in the May 2008 issue.

Author: Daneen from Philadelphia
Specialty: Cosmetics
Updated: Every day
Why should you read it: Daneen tries out all the new products and writes how she likes them, how long makeup lasts and if you should spend money on a product. She gives recommendations: for example, a body moisturizer with pink champagne and shea butter from Jaqua or a collection of "wedding makeup" by Bobbi Brown. She tells her readers about an interesting skin care line Cate's Essentials created by SK-II for Cate Blanchett. And, by the way, Daneen also writes about men's makeup.

Many thanks to Galina for the scan, and for her translation services!

Saturday, March 28, 2009

Transform Your Do With Clip-In Hair Extensions

For my step-by-step tutorial on how to create your own clip-in hair extensions, click here! If you'd prefer to just buy pre-made extensions, check out these clip-ins by Ted Gibson, which just launched tonight on QVC.

For more videos, visit my channel on YouTube - Spoiled Pretty TV.


Oh...and to try on different hairstyles and find inspiration for your personal transformation, visit dailymakeover.com.

For more video product reviews and tips, click here for Spoiled Pretty TV.

Total Beauty Weekend Web Tour

Viva Woman tells you 10 things to avoid when cleansing your face.

Beauty Secrets Revealed tells you about Morning Banana Diet- Japanese Way Of Losing Weight.

The Informed Makeup Maven talks green washing and cosmetics and wants you to peek inside her spring makeup bag. Don't forget to check out her giveaway this fortnight, Rimmel recover foundation and Suki UV blotting papers!

Beauty Anonymous brings you
YSL Summer 2009 Limited-edition Collection.

LA Pretty's fave new skin cream is making their skin brighter, clearer, and protecting their Pretty faces from the LA sun. And did we mention it's affordable? Find out what it is here!

Frappelattes has pictures of Nicole Richie with baby bump #2! Plus, discover where you can find all-natural pregnancy products to make this pregnancy a beautiful one.

This week Average Metro Joe covers an exclusive laser treatment for hair loss that is completely safe for men and women with troublesome hair loss.

Visit The Beauty Couch to read a review of Maybelline's Lash Stiletto and to enter a drawing to win one for yourself!

The Anti Hair Slave shows you how the Instyler really works. Watch the video review to check it out on a REAL person and also learn a couple tips and tricks for super sleek hair.

Check out one of the coolest nail polish innovations Beauty Junkies Unite has seen in a long time! Incoco Dry Nail Applique kits are a hit!

Daily Dose of Coffee tries out the new Jonathan Product Dirt offering: Spray Dirt. Is it worth the hefty price tag?

Are you a Bare Escentuals or mineral makeup fan? Beauty411 tries out the new Bare Escentuals Buxom Lash Mascara!

See what Fabulous Over Forty uses for her daily and weekly skincare regimen.

Girl-Woman-Beauty-Brains-Blog is holding a Manic Monday/April Fool's giveaway. Enter to win a Spa Sensuals set. BUT since the giveaway ends on April Fool's Day, Jamie and Beckie are throwing in the kitchen sink of beauty products as well. Don't be fooled. Enter now!

Boutique Flair is one of the first to test some mineral makeup and natural skin care products from the newly launched PRIIA Cosmetics!

eye4style loves the off-kilter luxury of Strange Invisible Perfumes. Check out her review of the three newest scents in the line!

More Than a Pretty Face reminds everyone that the 40% off introductory offer on Daniel Chinchilla Cosmetics line ends March 31. Take advantage of the offer now!

More Than a Pretty Face has a new giveaway: win one of two scented candles from Delirium & Co!

Indian Girl has just the lipstick for lip gloss lovers! Also, get all your concealer questions answered by pros at Three Custom Color Specialists! Send in your questions today!

The girls over at Beauty in Real Life are having another giveaway. Click here to enter to win a Galvanic Spa II kit, valued over $350!!!

Glossypink tells you how to get Nicole Richie's Blackbook Magazine makeup look!

The Makeup Divas reviews a few products from the new Avon Celestial 2009 Spring Collection.

The Advice Sisters' Alison Blackman loves Josie Maran's Tinted Moisturizer. Read the review to find out why!

Get The Look: Katie Holmes New Long Hair-by Talking Makeup!

Enter Lipgloss Break's Kitten Vixen Lipgloss Giveaway!

Hot Beauty Health loves Korres new Eco-Friendly Face Primer. Read to find out why!

Have you been looking for Cheap Strivectin? RN Guide to Skin Care found an almost identical item for a fraction of the cost.

Suzanne at Mineral Makeup Reviews reviews Mineral Hygiencis a bismuth free mineral makeup with incredible staying power.

The Beauty Blog is offering a free special report 12 ways to save money on your favorite beauty products when you sign up for The Beauty Insider, a free monthly beauty newsletter from four top rated beauty sites.

This week, Spoiled Pretty is giving away the new June Jacobs Vanda Orchid Collection: four products (shower gel, body balm, mist, and dry oil body spray) to keep the skin hydrated, glowing and beautiful.

Beauty Blogging Junkie shares the deets on the new Dial AntiOxidant Body Wash with Cranberry and AntiOxidant Pearls. You'll never guess what it reminds her of. Find out here.

Friday, March 27, 2009

Free Eyelash Curler at Tarte.com

Score a free eyelash curler when you purchase any of the mascaras pictured above. Enter code CURLER at checkout at tarte.com. Offer ends March 31st.

Take An Extra 20% Off Already Reduced Prices at BananaRepublic.com


Take an extra 20% off already reduced prices at BananaRepublic.com. Enter promo code EXTRA20 at checkout to redeem the discount. Offer ends March 29, 2009.

Thursday, March 26, 2009

DKNY Be Delicious Fresh Blossom Giveaway Winner

Congrats to Sue Farrell, winner of Spoiled Pretty's Be Delicious Fresh Blossom Giveaway, generously sponsored by DKNY. Sue has won a 3.4 oz bottle of DKNY's latest fragrance, plus the matching shower gel.

Inspired by the beauty of the Apple Blossom, DKNY Be Delicious Fresh Blossom is lighthearted, intensely feminine, and radiant. A blend of sparkling grapefruit, cassis and sun-kissed apricot meets a blooming floral heart of sheer muguet and petally rose, wrapped in luminous jasmine. Finish the apple sensation with a body lingering base of blonde woods and smooth skin accords.

Be Delicious Fresh Blossom is sold at Bloomingdale's, Macy's, Sephora.

Again, congratulations to Sue - and thanks to all of you who entered. Don't despair if you didn't win...just try your luck again. You know there's no shortage of giveaways here at Spoiled Pretty. In fact, I have another contest still going strong. Click here to enter the June Jacobs Vanda Orchid Collection Giveaway!

Even If You're Broke, You Can Afford This Fab Beauty Find

You're broke. You're dying to pamper yourself - but every day, your purse strings get a tad bit tighter. You want to look like a million bucks, but that's almost how much you owe the credit card companies. And let's not even talk about your student loans...good grief!

Fret not. You've come to the right place. I've got a product that you're going to love - not only because it's totally worth the money, but because it hardly costs any money at all! I'm talking about Lip Sliders Tinted Lip Balm by N.Y.C.

Available in six shades, this emollient balm delivers a sheer pop of color with an intense gloss finish (somewhat wet-looking, which is totally hot IMO). The hydrating and conditioning formula contains rich botanical oils and vitamins, which soften and repair. Plus, the subtly sweet flavor and fragrance is a yummy treat.

The best part is you can pucker up with N.Y.C. for only $2.99. After trying it, I couldn't believe it either. I would gladly pay twice as much for this balm, thought I appreciate that the folks at N.Y.C. are thinking about my financial well-being. Lip Sliders Tinted Lip Balm would be a great item for The Price Is Right. It's such a wonderful product that no one would guess that it costs less than $3.


As a brown girl, I'm partial to the brighter shades - particularly Sugar Baby, a sheer red.

N.Y.C. Lip Sliders Tinted Lip Balm is sold at drugstores and mass market retailers nationwide.

Heelarious: Her First High Heels

Okay...so I think we all agree that Baby Bangs is a terrible idea. I'm very relieved to know that I'm not alone in my sanity, though there's gotta be some looney toons out there keeping this company afloat.

I just can't wrap my mind around a parent who would slap a toupee on a baby's head and think she looks cute. The only conceivable use for Baby Bangs would be a day care production of Julius Caesar.

Anyway, I've found a much better way to spoil your little one pretty. Heelarious has these absolutely adorable high heel slippers for babies. So cute - in fact - that after perusing their inventory, I immediately started popping folic acid supplements. How precious would Baby Spoiled Pretty look with her lil tootsies in this pair of Brooke heels? Hell, I want an adult-sized pair...just to kick it around the house.



Hello...luvah!

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Baby Bangs: For The Girl Who Has Everything...Except Hair


Baby Bangs is a real product. Can you even?

Our patent pending HAIR+band accessory combination allows baby girl's (with little or no hair at all) the opportunity to have a beautifully realistic HAIR style in a SNAP!! It's quick, easy and baby barely knows it's there. Each Baby Bangs! HAIR+band has been made using only the finest ribbons and fabrics, PLUS our Baby Bangs! come to you pre-customized & size appropriate, cut, styled and ready for immediate wear. The wispy hair strands have been arranged in the cutest most adorable elfish coiffure!



This NEVER Happens: Get 30% Off at Kérastase!

Enjoy 30% off these soon to be out-of-stock products at Kérastase. Enter promo code VIP30 at checkout to receive the discount. Offer ends April 10th.

Um, Excuse Me...There's A Guy In My Lipgloss

Urban Decay's new Pocket Rocket Lip Gloss combines a girl's two favorite things: guys and gloss. Whether you swoon for a future senator or a tree hugger, one of the many men in this collection is sure to please you. And you might even recognize a few from The Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency.*

With the tilt of the tube, your well-dressed man strips down to his undies. Front and rear photos are included for your viewing pleasure, and the flat tube slides right into your pocket.

And, this lip gloss formula is so slick and cushiony you would love it even if it were packaged in a plain ol' squeezy tube. Each highly pigmented shade varies in opacity and finish, and the crème brûlée flavor will satiate your sweet tooth. The formula contains Hyaluronic Spheres known to improve cellular function, prevent dehydration, and fill in lines and wrinkles. The brush applicator is ideal for blending and if you give the tube a rub, pheromones are released into the air to enhance mood and sexual attraction.

Meet the mens...


David (milky mauve): David is a hard-working man: at work, in the gym, and most importantly, in bed. After a grueling 60-hour week, he still has the energy to come over and put his 110% into you. Undress him to inspect your benefits package.


Doug (medium pink with iridescent sparkle): Who doesn't love this guy?! Doug is cool. He has a closet full of clothes, a hard drive full of music, and loves making out on the street. Undress him to see why he's always smiling.


Eric (sheer true red): American born, but schooled abroad, Eric retains many European sensibilities, including Italian bravado, French table manners, and German soccer skills. Undress him for a little Spanish fly.


James (hot pink with ultraviolet glow): How cute is James?! You have the same favorite color (pink), the same hair (black), and the same size jeans (tight). And yet, he's still all man. Undress him to see if he's emo down below, too.


Jesse (blackberry with warm sparkle): Jesse owns a dingy cave of a bar on the Sunset Strip, pouring whiskey and cheap beer for rock royalty. Undress him to see where his tattoos end and your one-night stand begins.


Julio (white with iridescent sparkle): Is there anything hotter than a hot guy holding a baby? Julio is an amateur chef, a hot dad, and sweet as pie. Undress him and start fantasizing about the babies you'll make together.


Kirk (sheer nude): When he isn't out running the trails with his two chocolate labs, enviro-activist Kirk is finishing his master's in sustainable architecture. Undress him when you two feel like getting eco-friendly.


Timothy (coral with pink glow): An all-American and future Senator, Timothy is your mother's dream come true. Skilled at fencing, rugby and sailing, he is valiant and fun. Undress him and he'll make you the next Jackie O-oh-ohhhhhhh!

*I'm pretty sure that "David" and "Timothy" are actually Dominic and Paul from my Oxygen guilty pleasure.

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Do The Dew: DDF Ultra-Lite Oil-Free Moisturizing Dew SPF 15

I was very excited to try DDF Ultra-Lite Oil-Free Moisturizing Dew SPF 15, considering it was recently named a finalist in the CEW 2009 Beauty Awards. And after testing the moisturizer, I agreed with CEW's assessment, as I found that the product did - indeed - deliver on all of its promises.

The ultra-lightweight formula absorbs quickly and doesn’t clog pores. It protects skin from UVA and UVB rays without that telltale white finish that many SPF-infused products leave behind. Since it’s oil-free and fragrance free, Ultra-Lite Oil-Free Moisturizing Dew SPF 15 is ideal for those with sensitive skin and acne. It’s man-friendly too. And with warmer weather just around the bend, I’ll definitely be using this product when I move my heavier winter formula to the back of my bathroom cabinet for its summer hibernation.

But despite this ringing endorsement, there is one minor caveat. With a name like Ultra-Lite Oil-Free Moisturizing Dew SPF 15, you might expect that the moisturizer would give your skin a dewy effect. At least, that’s what I assumed. It doesn’t. This moisturizer is going to quench your skin’s thirst, but the finish is definitely matte...which is great for shiny sistas like me.

DDF Ultra-Lite Oil-Free Moisturizing Dew SPF 15 is $38-$40 and is available at Beauty.com, BlueMercury, DermStore, Sephora, Ulta and ddfskincare.com.

Smashbox Jet Set Waterproof Eye Liner in Midnight Purple



Smashbox’s best selling budge-proof gel liner is now available in a deep violet hue that’s perfect for spring.

Jet Set Waterproof Gel Eye Liner has an innovative gel-based liner stays blendable for 60 seconds then dries to a smudge-proof, budge-proof finish that lasts all day. It's perfect for lining the inner rim of the eye or as a stay-put traditional liner.

Get it in Midnight Purple at smashbox.com now – a week before it hits stores!

Monday, March 23, 2009

Brace Yourself For This Week's Sales at Ideeli.com

I was very tempted to keep the following information to myself...

Ideeli is having some off-the-chain sales this week...and some of my favorite handbag designers are all up in the mix. I've been craving a new bag lately, so I think I might just break down and adopt a new one. Just don't tell Mr. Spoiled Pretty - he seems to think that when you acquire a new purse, you have to throw an old one out. I know, I know...but he's a man and, therefore, knows no better.

Anyway, when it comes to handbags, I'm a little cutthroat. I considered keeping these amazing Ideeli sales a secret, lest I risk a lot of competition come buying time. But I've never been one to hold out on y'all, so I'm going to share the deets. And hopefully, my good deed will be rewarded with the extra yummy handbag I've been jonesing for.


Ideeli Red Handbag Sale: Begins Tuesday, March 24
Ideeli Red Sale events offer select merchandise from a variety of brands at extra special prices.
Nothing pulls your look together better than the perfect handbag, and perhaps no handbag embodies perfection better than these gems. For times that call for laid-back luxe, LA-based Treesje is the ideal label. When you need to show off your "joie de vivre" spirit, reach for a charming Abaco creation. Celine pieces infuse your look with just the right dose of classic French chic and Magnes Sisters handbags bring a bold, geometric flair to any ensemble. And when the occasion calls for some unbridled glamour, Clara Kasavina delivers. Prices for this event start at $95.

Sondra Roberts Sale: Begins Tuesday, March 24
Prices for this event start at $114

Gustto Sale: Begins Tuesday, March 24
Prices for this event start at $135.

Carla Mancini Sale: Begins Wednesday, March 26
Prices for this event start at $222.

Christian Audigier Sale: Begins Thursday, March 26
Prices for this event start at $46.

Ed Hardy Sale: Begins Thursday, March 26
Prices for this event start at $34.

Michael Kors Sale: Begins Friday, March 27
Prices for this event start at $69.

To shop Ideeli, you must be a member. Membership is free and super easy. Just visit ideeli.com and enter spoiledpretty as your invite code.

Kim Kardashian’s New Favorite Body Scrub, And How You Can Score A Free Sample!


I always knew Kim Kardashian and I were kindred spirits. Besides a shared love of makeup - particularly, lush lashes and lacquered lips - we also love skin that's polished to perfection. Today on her blog, Kim dishes about her new favorite body scrub by Caress:

“They have a new exfoliating body wash called Evenly Gorgeous and it has burnt brown sugar in it to help exfoliate! It literally smells so good you want to eat it!”

It exfoliates, smells yummy, and I can get it at the drugstore? Done and done.

Oh...and get this: right now, Caress is giving away free samples of Evenly Gorgeous Exfoliating Body Wash - while supplies last.

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

Source

Philosophy: 3 Shower Gels For Only $33


Right now, take advantage of Philosophy’s 3 for $33 deal on 16 oz Shower Gels (regularly priced $16 each). Choose from Philosophy’s entire collection of delicious shower gels.

Enter promo code philo3for33 at checkout. Promotion ends March 25, 2009.

Recessionista's Fabuless Pick of the Week: L'Oreal Voluminous Mascara in Carbon Black

Last month, while attending a New York Fashion Week event, I approached a total stranger because I was so bewitched by her lush, super-sized lashes. I asked her what mascara she was using - and I half expected her to say DiorShow, Givenchy Phenomen'Eyes or some pricey, unheard-of formula that you can only get in Europe or Japan (because that always seems to be my luck). So imagine my shock when she responded, “It’s L’Oreal Voluminous. I’ve been using it since I started wearing makeup, and I haven’t found anything else that I prefer more.”

Voluminous Mascara? Where have I been? I wore Voluminous in college, when drugstore was all I could afford. But once I got myself a jobby job, I traded in mass market for prestige (for the most part) and dropped Voluminous like a bad habit. This chance encounter with Voluminous’ new BFF made me feel salty and snobbish for forgetting my humble beginnings. So I recently picked up a tube of Voluminous Mascara in Carbon Black and hoped the old spark would ignite. The verdict: lashes so hot, they could start an inferno!

L’Oreal Voluminous not only pumped up the volume of my sparse lashes, the mascara took my fringe to new heights…all without clumps. And unlike so many mascaras on the market nowadays, the Voluminous brush doesn’t grab too much product - which is great because I hate having to wipe off excess product and helplessly watch as half of the tube’s content goes in the trash, on a tissue. Another thing I appreciate about Voluminous is that - after it dries - my lashes don’t feel rock hard and brittle; they’re still soft and flexible, yet the color stays put and doesn’t migrate under my eyes after a long day.

Moral of the story: don’t forget your roots. Oldies can still be goodies…and this goodie is great, because it costs less than $8! Stranger in NYC, thanks for inspiring me to reconnect with an old friend.

Reunited and it looks so good
Reunited 'cause we understood
There's one perfect fit
And, sugar, this one is it
We both are so excited
'Cause we're reunited - hey, hey

L’Oreal Voluminous Mascara in Carbon Black is sold at drugstores and mass market retailers. And right now, drugstore.com is having a special promotion: buy any L'Oreal cosmetic item and get 50% off the second. So take my advice and take advantage of drugstore.com’s beneficence.

And just in case you were wondering, that yummy sparkle on my eyes comes courtesy of MAC's new Sugarsweet collection. I traced the inner corners with the Lemon Chiffon Shade Stick to give my peepers some sparkle and make them pop!

June Jacobs Vanda Orchid Collection Giveaway!

June Jacobs, world renowned spa visionary, has traveled the world to uncover the most exclusive skincare ingredients. On a recent trip to Singapore, she discovered the exotic Vanda Orchid - one of the most beautiful and rare species of orchids. The orchid extract is revered for its anti-oxidant and reparative properties and includes skin fortifying minerals like calcium, magnesium and zinc to boost skin’s immunity.

June bottled its essence and skincare benefits into a new collection for the June Jacobs Spa Collection. The new June Jacobs Vanda Orchid Collection four products to keep the skin hydrated, glowing and beautiful.

This week, I am partnering with June Jacobs Spa Collection and spoiling you pretty with a skincare giveaway! One lucky reader will win:


Vanda Orchid Shower Gel ($35): This rich and invigorating foaming shower gel boasts a gentle, deep cleansing action that imparts a subtle, yet sensuous bouquet of orchid extracts. It helps detoxify the pores as it gently sweeps away impurities and dead skin cells. Herbal humectants protect the skin from moisture loss and nourishing botanicals soothe and protect against environmental toxins, leaving the skin ultra clean, soft, supple and revitalized.


Vanda Orchid Body Balm ($60): This luxurious body lotion blends the moisturizing miracle of shea butter with rare nourishing oils, aromatic healing botanicals, and protective anti-oxidants. The unique synergistic action softens, protects and penetrates the skin as it replenishes lost moisture. The delicate bouquet of orchid extracts adjusts to one’s body chemistry, refreshing the senses leaving the skin velvety soft, supple and rejuvenated.


Vanda Orchid Mist ($48 ): This fragrant toner mists onto the skin with an infusion of natural botanicals, essential oils and minerals leaving the skin uplifted while leaving the senses energized. It also protects against free radical damage and prevents cellular damage caused by environmental toxins.


Vanda Orchid Dry Oil Body Spray ($45): This skin softening treatment cushions, protects and penetrates rough, dry skin as it replenishes lost moisture. A unique combination of rejuvenating oils, including apricot and sunflower, work to rapidly condition and soothe dry, tired skin. Leaves skin feeling refreshed, soft and rejuvenated, while also protecting against environmental toxins.

The Vanda Orchid Collection is formulated free of parabens, preservatives, petrochemicals, synthetic dyes, sulfates or fragrance, and ideal for all skin types.

To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address. The subject line should read "June Jacobs Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Sunday, March 29th. One winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Monday, March 30th, 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.

Good luck!