Holiday shopping

I enjoy giving gifts and if you haven't figured this out yet, I really like shopping. The only time I don't like shopping is during the holiday season. Too many people are shopping because they think they have to, not because they want to.

While in Dallas this past weekend, I decided mall parking might be the biggest obstacle a shopper has to overcome. My friends parents' had to leave the swanky North Park Shopping Center because after 20 minutes of searching they couldn't find parking, while a friend and I had a stress-free jaunt at the Galleria where we had been dropped off.

Check out my tips from a previous blog that will make your gift-giving easier: http://divacheck.blogspot.com/2006/10/holiday-considerations.html.

Happy Holidays!

worth the mention

The Laundress knows how to kick off the holiday season.

They are offering a very generous 20% off all products until December 5th with the code holiday (just enter at check-out). This is a great opportunity to stock up on your favorites and to do a little holiday shopping.

Laundry detergent as a gift? Here's a few ideas.

Treat your friend who always has the latest and greatest pair of designer denim to The Laundress Denim Wash. She might already know about it, but she'll thank you for re-stocking her supply or be excited to find out about this great product. Either way, you both win.

For your sister who travels every other week, introduce her to The Laundress Wash & Stain Bar. It's airplane friendly (it's like a bar of soap, so it doesn't take up valuable space in the quart sized "liquid" bag) and easy to use. You might also want to pick up a box of the Wool & Cashmere Shampoo pacquettes for her so she can take care of her sweaters when travelling too.

Your friend who has a High Effiency or front loading washing machine will be eternally grateful that you found her this great low-sudsing, yummy-smelling laundry detergent she can use with her delicates and her everyday clothes.

Just don't forget to stock up on all your favs.

Really?

I just found a great tip in the Real Simple August issue to help all divas prevent sweat stains from ruining their gorgeous summer white shirts.

All you need to do is sprinkle a little baby powder on the underarms and collar of a shirt, then iron. The powder forms a barrier that prevents oil and dirt from seeping into your shirt.

I haven't tried this out yet; but it's so quick and easy I hope it works!!

Thanks to Real Simple for teaching us new ways to take of ourselves.

what's in your bag?

Allure magazine recently polled 2,600 women, ages 18 - 64, online and found that most women leave the house with at least four beauty items in their handbag. Lip balm, hand/body moisturizer, lipstick and lip gloss, in that order, are what topped the list.

What else? Beauty implements, fragrance/perfume, mascara, foundation, blush or bronzer and eye shadow can also be found in our handbags.

After reading this, I had to look in my handbag and see exactly what beauty products I leave home with. Here's what I found: comb, eyelash curler, eyebrow pencil, lip palette that has six glosses inside, three lipsticks, one (individual) lip gloss, hand lotion, blotting papers and one cream eye shadow.

I was surprised by how many lip products were in my bag and was happy to find the blotting papers. I removed two of the lipsticks and kept the rest.

What's in your handbag? Any surprises?

L'OCCITANE Sale

While all the clothing retailers are bombarding you with their summer sales, it's only fair that I mention one of my favorite product lines has a "sale" too.

French beauty brand L'OCCITANE has a great selection of their products discounted 20 to 50 percent until July 10, 2007.

I love the luxurious feel of the Shea Butter Body Lotion and couldn't pass up the larger 16.9 fl. oz. size for $36. It's pricey, but definitely worth every cent.

And since they're 20% off and I've never seen them on sale before, I had to purchase a few of the Extra Gentle Soaps. The Milk, Verbena and Lavender scented soaps are great for sensitive skin and last a long time.

The L'Occitane sale prices are only valid at L'Occitane stores and usa.loccitane.com. All products are available while supplies last, so act sooner rather than later.

Real Simple July issue

Real Simple's July issue is jam packed with lots of good information.

The beauty section has two can't miss articles; stubble trouble and summer hair help. Stubble trouble (pgs 91-97) lists the pros and cons of four hair removal methods then provides six product recommendations. Summer hair help (pgs 99-103) provides the quick-fix and preventive measure for four common summer hair dilemas.

My favorite section, road tests (pgs 155-174), tackles bras, teeth whiteners, ice cream makers and pickles. Such an interesting, and odd, combination that I found myself carefully reading each category. While all four categories were very informative, I was most impressed by the 10 "winner" bras and the fitting tips.

All my fellow laundry fanatics will be drawn to the hints on how to keep white clothes white (p. 189). But y'all probably do that stuff already. ;)

The July Real Simple issue is available now wherever magazines are sold.

remember to look down

Summer officially arrives in the Northern Hemisphere next week.

I'd like to take this opportunity to remind every one to look at their feet, especially their toes, when choosing their shoes for the day. No matter how tempting, if you look at your toes and wouldn't want anyone else to look at them, DO NOT wear open toe shoes.

Here are a few guidelines for summer toes:

You do not have to have the perfect pedicure day after day to show off your toes. You do need to cover up (better yet, remove) chipped nail polish.

You don't need to wear toe nail polish. You do need clean, filed toenails.

Use a pumice stone on your feet at least three times a week.

Know when to call in a professional. If you are completely helpless when it comes to your feet, get a pedicure and watch what the technician does.

Feel free to pass this information along to any "known offenders".

Band-Aid Blister Block

This product might be the answer to every diva's new shoe dilema, "Should I wear these out tonight? I don't want to get a blister."

Band-Aid's Blister Block promises to invisibly prevent blisters. It's a natural based lubricating formula packaged in a small roll-up stick that reduces rubbing on the skin. The stick formula makes it non-messy and easy to apply. It's ideal for open toe shoes (no exposed band-aids).

I bought one but haven't had the opportunity to try it. It does glide on easily without leaving you feeling slippery and has a faint, pleasant floral scent. I did read a few reviews on drugstore.com and the reviewers said it worked, but needed to be re-applied.

I'd love feedback from anyone who has already tried the Blister Block. I'm wondering if it works on "corns" too.

Band-Aid Blister Block is available at most drugstore chains, mass retailers (Target, Wal-Mart) and online at drugstore.com.

Pantene Texturize Moussing Foam Wax

Last month's "trust the expert" post discussed some new hair products I had purchased. I mentioned that I discovered a category I had never heard before, gel wax.

The May issue of Lucky Magazine introduced me to another category I wasn't aware of, mousse wax. I was intrigued by Lucky's write up because they mention you can use this on wet hair for volume and dry hair for extra texture. And, I'll admit it, I spent part of the 80's with a perm so mousse makes me a little nostalgic.

I decided to try the Pantene Texturize Moussing Foam Wax. It's only six bucks and readily available.

Pantene is right on the money with their description, "easy-to-use whipped foam wax crosses a wax with a mousse for lightness and stability". When I used it on wet hair, I had volume without fly-aways after blow-drying. I had amazing results when I applied a small amount to dry hair (sans product before blow-drying). I ended up with so much volume and texture that my husband called me "Rock and Roll Diva".

This product seems like a regular mousse until you start to work with it. The directions say to (after dispensing) "rub hands together, making a thin layer", then applying. The mousse wax seems to turn into a thin layer of slighty tacky water. I noticed a texture change when I was working this into my dry hair. The longer I had it on my hands the tackier it became.

My diva haircare experiment continues and I'd love to hear from anyone who has other haircare product suggestions or questions.

Why I Love Cream Eye Shadows

Last month I told you how eyeliner pencils can leave a mark in the crease of my right eye.

Unfortunately, that's not where my eye makeup issues end.

Powder eye shadow collects in my crease within a couple hours after application. I've tried numerous makeup techniques and products and they just don't prevent this from happening.

So how does this high maintenance diva dress her eyes up?

My solution to all day, crease-proof, smudge-proof eye lid color is cream eye shadows. They're easy to apply and dry quickly. Squeeze a little out of the tube, one quick swipe of color to each eyelid, a little blending and you're done. I apply with my fingertips (if that's too messy for you, use a nylon brush for application).

Who makes cream eye shadows?

Dior, Clarins, Clinique, Bourjois, MAC, BeneFit and Rimmel all make great ones.

If you are trying a cream shadow for the first time, look for formulas that say they dry to a powder finish. And remember that a little goes a long way.

High Maintenance

Toby Keith has a song called "High Maintenance Woman".

Whenever I hear this song on the radio I am reminded of the time a friends husband called me high maintenance.

He was listening to us chatting about people and said, "Boy, you are high maintenance".

My immediate response was, "Yes, I am. I've got standards. I mean who wants to be low maintenance?"

My friend chuckled and appreciated the way I spun the negative connotation. Her husband was somewhat surprised by my response, but didn't have anything else to say on the subject.

So what exactly is high maintenance?

Someone who takes care of themselves? Someone who spends money on personal grooming habits? Someone who likes nice food? Someone who likes to dress nicely? Someone who treats others with respect and dignity? Someone who expects others to treat them with respect and dignity?

I color my hair. I wear makeup. I love good food. I usually look put together. I'm also nice, hard-working and a great friend. I am not mean nor do I feel entitled to anything.

Is that all sooooo bad?

If anyone tells you that you're high maintenance - smile and say, "thank you".

at-home facials, part 2

This post is for the diva who wants an at-home facial that doesn't involve an electronic gadget.

The easiest way to replicate a facial at-home is to exfoliate once or twice a week and use a facial mask once a week.

When choosing a mask, decide what you'd like to accomplish (deep cleansing, moisturizing, calming, etc.). If your budget allows it, you should consider buying issue-specific masks and use them as needed.

Here are some of my favorite masks.

under $10: Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque This works wonders on oily skin.

under $20: American Beauty Spare Moment Moisture Mask This makes you feel like you just gave your skin a drink of water.

under $40: REN Multi-Mineral Detoxifying Facial Mask Great deep cleansing and purifying clay mask that leaves your skin smooth and decongested.

sky's-the-limit: Tracie Martyn Enzyme Exfoliant Gently exfoliates while reducing the appearance of fine lines and large pores. Brightens and revives complexion. A little goes a long way, so it's worth the splurge!

Queen Helene is available at most drugstores and online at drugstore.com. American Beauty is available at Kohl's stores and online at kohls.com. REN is available at select Sephora and Barneys New York stores and online at renskincare.com, barneys.com and sephora.com. Tracie Martyn is available at select Barneys New York and Neiman Marcus stores and online at barneys.com, neimanmarcus.com and traciemartyn.com.

The most important piece of advice here is consistency. Whether it's once a week, every other week or once a month, figure out what you can work into your schedule and stick to it.

If you can't make time for yourself, who will?

at-home facials

I'm not really into "gadgets". But I purchased one last week that's making a big impact on my face.

Meet Conair's Microdermabrasion Facial System.

I enjoy getting facials but don't have room in my budget to have them with any type of frequency. So I decided to try and give myself facials at home.

Facial masks are great and I use one at least once a week. But I felt like something was lacking in my regimen; I decided it was the steam that the professionals use.

After a small amount of research (and reading many amazon.com reviews) the Conair Microdermabrasion Facial System sounded like the ideal facial steamer.

This system comes with two facial sauna cones (wide facial steamer and narrow sinus cone), a microdermabrasion tool with two attachments (gentle exfoliating brush and sponge for applying moisturizer) and a timer that you can set for three to fifteen minutes. For safety, the unit automatically shuts off after 45 minutes.

I've used mine twice already and really like it. The system is very easy to use; just fill, attach your preferred cone, plug-in and wait (only three to five minutes) until the indicator says it's time to steam. It's small enough that you can set it up almost anywhere.

I used the wide facial steamer cone for 10 to 15 minutes and loved the way my skin felt when I was done; soft, moist and clean. The timer is a great feature that I used both times.

My in-home steam use didn't replicate my professional facials, but it was pretty darn close. Considering that I spent the fraction of the cost of one facial on my steamer, I'm more than happy with my at-home facial.

Conair's Microdermabrasion Facial System is available at Bed, Bath and Beyond stores and online at target.com, amazon.com and bedbathandbeyond.com. This facial steamer is also called Conair Complete Facial Sauna.

up next: at-home facials, part 2

Lipstick Queen's Oxymoron

Poppy King has done it again.

She's created a lip product I can't wait to try, Oxymoron. It's a matte gloss.

What?

Matte gloss?

Is there such a thing?

Only the Lipstick Queen could create a lip product that glides on like a gloss but looks matte like a lipstick. (Hence the name)

The four subtle shades are inspired by the colors of cheek blush. Oxymoron is as easy and simple to use as blush too. Just pick your shade and apply with the (provided) Lipstick Queen brush.

I'll be trying this soon and will let you know what I think in a future post. Knowing Poppy King's attention to detail and passion for lip products, I'm sure it's a winner.

Lipstick Queen products are sold at select stores and online at barneys.com.

Urban Decay's 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil

Urban Decay's 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil offers great color with mega staying power. This smooth waterproof formula stays soft and creamy for blending (about 30 seconds), then dries down and will not budge.

This remarkable pencil even stays put on the inner lid. When applying on the inner lid, apply, then try not to blink for a second or two, and you’ve got immovable liner. Really.

It's similar to Clinique's Cream Shaper for Eyes (which I wrote about last month); but Urban Decay's 24/7 sets itself apart from other eyeliner pencils with their vibrant hues and metallic tones.

A friend's strong recommendation led me to purchase Urban Decay's 24/7 pencil in their black shade, Zero. It went on effortlessly and stayed all day. I used it on my inner lid one evening and it didn't smudge (or budge) all night.

Lust is such a rich plush purple that I couldn't resist and just "had to have it". I'm currently debating which metallic shade - bronze, gold or silver - I should pick up for Summer. If you prefer bright colors, be sure to check out Electric, Deviant and Covet.

Urban Decay products are available at select Sephora stores and online at urbandecay.com and sephora.com.

trust the expert

No matter how much you know, it never hurts to listen to an expert. You just might learn a thing or two. Or in my case, learn and purchase a thing or two.

My recent haircut meant I needed new hair styling products.

But how does a diva decide what products are right for her new haircut?

By trusting the expert.

That's how I ended up with two great new products. My new favorite product is Goldwell's Crystal Turn. It's in a category I had never heard before, gel wax. The consistency is denser than your usual styling gel and slightly tacky to the touch.

I like it because it works magic on my new haircut. It provides volume and brings out my hairs new "piecey" effect without weighing it down. This is a product I never would have guessed would work on my hair if someone didn't show me how it works.

I also purchased Goldwell's Big Finish hairspray. This was big for me, I haven't used hairspray in 15+ years. I took the plunge on this hairspray because when my hairdresser used it on my hair I got hold without stiffness or stickiness.

diva lesson: Listen to your hairdresser when you are at the salon. If he or she uses a product and you like the results, buy it then and there. Don't try to make do with what you have at home or tell yourself you'll buy something similar in the drugstore.

Just trust the expert!

the right one

Choosing your hairdresser should be like choosing the person you want to spend the rest of your life with; when you have the right one, you just know.

I have been in the "growing out my hair" phase for the past 18 months. I have had a few maintenance cuts in the last year and a half, but my hair was lacking style.

My biggest challenge was finding someone I could trust. I was happy enough with the previous person who had cut my hair, but I really wanted some texture. I heard too many horror stories in previous months of haircuts gone bad to just "roll the dice".

I started by asking friends where they got their hair cut. Unfortunately, I didn't get many glowing recommendations. Just when I was going to give up my search and stick to a boring haircut (better safe than sorry), I meet a friend of a friend who was a hairdresser. As Holly and I chatted throughout the evening she mentioned that she thought my hair needed "a little something" and would love to cut my hair.

I liked her and thought if she was bold enough to say that to me, I was brave enough to take a chance. I got my new haircut a few weeks ago. Thanks to Holly, my long, straight Asian hair has pizazz. It's still plenty long, but now it's got style and texture.

up next: new haircut = new styling products

going to Brazil

That's the phrase a friend of mine uses when she's going to get a Brazilian Wax.

Another friend and I were discussing what happens when you "go to Brazil". Actually, she asked questions and I was able to answer them. My girlfriends questions were similar to my own many years ago. Pain level? Irritation? Back there too, how?

I will spare you most of the details of my personal grooming habits. I will tell you that I once had a bikini wax in Chicago and hated it. A few years later, while living in NYC, some friends gave me a gift certificate to get a Brazilian Wax at the place to get one, J Sisters. Since I was technically their boss I wasn't sure if this was a gift or retribution.

Nothing ventured, nothing gained. So I took my gift at face value and booked an appointment for a Brazilian Wax. I was in and out of the salon in 20 minutes and had no pain or irritation. And I've never been the same since then. I was so thrilled by how "clean" I felt that I wanted to show the world. Seriously.

I told my girlfriend there's nothing like that feeling. I even "demonstrated" the pose for "getting back there". She has been waxing at home for 20+ years and is looking forward to finding a reputable person near her so she too can "go to Brazil".

I did warn her that once you start, you never want to go back.

diva tip: If you think you might be sensitive take an over the counter pain medicine before your appointment. And even seasoned waxees don't get waxed near that "time of the month".

Think happy thoughts.

the gift that keeps giving

My birthday is around the corner, May 11th, and I thought I'd show and tell you about the best gift I've ever received. It's a Bucket. Not just any bucket, a used bucket.

Actually, her name was Sunshine when my then boyfriend (now husband) was her foster parent. He was a foster parent for the Midwest Lab Rescue in Chicago and she was his 11th foster dog. When she arrived at his door he had no idea it would lead to adoption. But something in those beautiful brown eyes told us she had a zest for life that would blend in well with our other animals, two dogs and two cats.

She had been with us for the two weeks before my birthday and when I found out someone might adopt her, I got very possessive. I had never felt that way about the five foster dogs I met before her. That's when Simon (my husband) knew I might want to keep her.

I cried when he presented her to me with a bow around her neck on my 32nd birthday.

My friends at work thought we were crazy. They kept saying, "Another dog? She's five?"

All I could think was, "Why not? You have to see her."

Sunshine - April 2000

We had to re-name her because my dog's name was (and still is) Sunny. Pez was in the potential name pile for a little while. Simon came up with "Bucket" during dinner that night and when we went home and tried it out, she responded immediately with a tail wag.

And we've never looked back. She has brought more happiness into our lives than you would think 80 pounds of fur could. Okay, so she hates thunderstorms and we've had some sleepness stormy nights. And we had a mammory cancer scare last year (we caught a lump with pre-cancerous cells). Small prices to pay for having her fun-loving presence in our household.

She's slowed down a bit now that she's almost 12. She's still a little goofy and she wags her tail endlessly when you say her name.

She's just Bucket.

And we wouldn't want her any other way.

Bucket being Bucket - February 2007

The Laundress Wash & Stain Bar

The Laundress is introducing a Wash & Stain Bar.

The Laundress developed the Wash & Stain Bars as an alternative for removing tough stains on sweaters, delicates and everything else clothing. This product can handle both stains and general washing.

The solid formula also makes this a must-have travel product. You won't have to worry about losing space in your TSA approved one-quart zip top bag for the best laundry care. You can also pop the unused wrapped bars in your drawers or closets to keep your clothes smelling laundry fresh.

The Laundress Wash & Stain Bar is $14.oo for a set of four 2oz. bars. The sets are available in the different Laundress scents; classic, lady, delicate and baby. (please note: each set contains four bars of the same scent) This product will be available in May. If you want to make sure you don't miss out on this sure to be best-seller, pre-order now at thelaundress.com.

BeneFit Cosmetics: Love Your Look

BeneFit Cosmetics is bringing its quick-fix, problem-solving style to their new color cosmetics line, Love Your Look. The Love Your Look collection will contain an assortment of 39 units: 24 lipsticks 12 creaseless cream shadow-liners and three sheer cream blushes. A set of powder shadows is planned for a fall launch.

Love Your Look is broken down into three looks to match consumers' lifestyles and personalities. Lana is aimed at consumers who prefer a "no-makeup" look, with a colletion of softer and warmer neutral shades. Gabbi feautres a slightly more sophisticated, mauve color palette in medium neutral shades. Betty offers stronger colors like amber, mauve and berry in deeper neutral shades. The collection's colors are designed to be layered and work together.

To keep with the company's lighthearted spirit, the collection's models are mannequins; each capturing a specific lifestyle with their appearance. The mannequins are featured on the products' black and white packaging; which looks pretty darn adorable.

Love Your Look will be available in May at all 930 doors that currently carry the BeneFit line. It's already available online at sephora.com. Sephora's website also has BeneFit's Love Your Look quiz that will help you determine if you're Lana, Gabbi or Betty by answering seven quick questions (I'm Gabbi).

up next: The Laundress Wash & Stain Bar

How does a diva sit in the sun?

I told you I was going to the Caribbean. I didn't tell you that I haven't really sat in the sun much in the last 20 years. I like sunshine, I just don't stay in one spot for hours on end with the sole purpose of getting a good tan. Skin cancer is super scary and would really effect my vanity (if it didn't kill me).

My plan when I'm in sun the next few days is to heavily arm myself with sunscreen. For my face I just purchased MD Skincare's Powerful Sun Protection SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion. I decided to try this for my face because it's formulated with iron-encapsulating technology that binds to iron left on the skin by tap water and perspiration and prevents the iron from doing damage to collagen. It's also loaded with antioxidants.

I can be sensitive to sunscreens so tried it at home for a couple of days. No use in bringing it if it's going to wreck havoc on my skin (and I'd rather find that out before a trip instead of during). I didn't have any problems with this sunscreen so it makes the cut. I liked the lightweight texture and didn't notice any type of scent.

My body will be slathered with Neutrogena's Ultra Soft Hydrating Sunblock with SPF 30. It lives up to it's label of "feels like a body lotion". It's a non-greasy, lightweight lotion that's hydrating and offers UVA/UVB broad spectrum sunscreens. It's also waterproof and sweat-proof; great for an occasional cooling off pool dip.

Neutrogena is available at most grocery and drug stores and online at drugstore.com. MD Skincare is available at select Sephora and Nordstrom stores, and online at beauty.com, sephora.com and nordstrom.com.

If you're looking for me, I'll be by the pool. Reapplying my sunscreens every 90 minutes.

warm weather preparation

I have the good fortune of going on a warm weather vacation this weekend. Since I live in Southern Maine (that is not a complaint) and we have been experiencing an unusually chilly and snowy April (that is), I am really looking forward to my Carribean getaway.

I did experience a bit of a panic a few weeks ago because I realized I had a lot to do if I wanted to step right into my weekend of sunshine. While I'm bundling up in turtlenecks and sweaters I'll have to pack summer clothes and shoes and not look like I'm from the Great White North. Talk about having to flip a switch.

I tackled the clothes first. I started a list of the items I wanted to bring. Then in typical girl-fashion I changed it once I started getting into my summer "wardrobe". I'll spare you the list of everything I tried on. The items that did make the cut were a khaki short, charcoal bermudas, nice white capris, three dressy tank tops, four basic tank tops, two short sleeve shirts that can be casual or dressy, one knit dress, one beach coverup and three swimsuits.

The shoe selection was relatively easy. A nice summer heel for dinners, my flat patent white K. Jacques thong sandal that is super comfortable and goes with everything and a Reef flip flop for the pool. I just had to make sure my feet were sandal ready.

I paint my toenails year-round so my feet usually look nice. They just needed a little TLC. A few sessions with a pumice stone removed the tough skin, and using the cuticle clippers and a nail file brought my feet to sunshine worthy status.

Once my clothing and shoe wardrobes were established I faced another issue. Capri's, bathing suits and sandals mean you have to expose your legs. I'm olive tone, but fair, therefore risk blinding people with my pasty winter legs.

My rescue came in a tube of Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer. It's a daily body moisturizer that delivers small doses of self tanner. The maximum depth and intensity of color is reached after about one week of daily use. It's better than a regular self tanner; no uneven application mistakes and no heavy scent.

My warm weather vacation preparation in a nutshell: figure out your wardrobe a few days before you depart, make sure your feet look nice and use some self tanner. Trust me, it only sounds that simple. At least for this diva.

Okay, gotta run and get some beauty sleep.

cK Calvin Klein Beauty

Calvin Klein Inc. is getting back in the cosmetics game.

You may remember that Calvin Klein had a color cosmetics line, under license with Unilever Cosmetics, from 2000-03. That collection was designed by Diane Kendal and was sold in about 120 doors worldwide. It was phased out of the marketplace in 2003.

As reported in WWD, Calvin Klein Inc. unveiled the first pieces of cK Calvin Klein Beauty, its new color cosmetics collection with licensee Markwins International a couple of weeks ago at the international trade fair Cosmoprof.

The new cosmetics line, with almost 200 units, will offer foundation, concealer, eye shadows, lip colors, mascara, lip and eye pencils, nail polish and makeup brushes. Price points, which average under $20 per item in the U.S., are intended to be consistent with other entry-level prestige brands.

According to Tom Murry, CKI's president and COO, the new beauty brand, is designed to appeal to a multicultural, fashion-forward consumer. Just like their CK clothing brand. Think a little trendier and youthful.

cK Calvin Klein Beauty will launch in Italy in late May, followed by France in June and the U.S., The U.K., Canada and Mexico in September. In the U.S., the line will initially be sold in select Macy's doors. Approximately 1,000 doors are planned for Europe. In October, Hong Kong will get the color line, followed by Japan, Taiwan, Korea, Shanghai and Beijing.

When it hits the stores, I'll give my two cents worth.

The Laundress Denim Wash & Whites Detergent

I don't "do" laundry every day, nor do I work for The Laundress, yet here I am writing about their products again. (They are mentioned in all my Clothing Care posts)

The first product I'd like to rave about in this post is The Laundress Denim Wash. When you spend $200 on a pair of jeans you expect them to last awhile and look good wash after wash. All divas know that they are supposed to let their denim air dry to prevent stretching and fading. Yet plenty of divas, you know who you are, still throw their jeans in the dryer to "soften them".

The ladies at The Laundress have made it so you can have your cake and eat it too. In this case, air dry your jeans and have them feeling soft when you put them on. Their Denim Wash blends detergent and fabric softener to clean and soften all you designer jeans.

I just washed six pairs of jeans in the Denim Wash the other night and when I was folding them they felt softer than they normally do after air drying. And I am happy to report that I wore a pair of the newly washed jeans yesterday and they were definitely softer against my body.

I've also got to mention The Laundress' Whites Detergent. I am not a big fan of bleach. I do however like my whites white, so I use bleach sparingly and only when needed.

The Laundress' Whites Detergent is formulated with a bleach alternative, optical brightener and stain fighting enzymes so you can take proper care of your daily whites without using bleach. It won't ruin colors and is effective in all water temperatures. Like all of The Laundress products, the Whites Detergent is plant based (most mass market brands are petroleum based) and 100% Biodegradeable.

I noticed a difference in my white shirts the first time I used the Whites Detergent. They were brighter and smelled great. One of my friends just hand washed a white Gucci Skirt with the Whites Detergent and said it looks as good as new.

The Laundress Denim Wash is $18 for 16 fl. oz.; which will get you up to 16 washes. The Laundress Whites Detergent is avaiable in three different sizes: $5 for 2 fl. oz., $16 for 16 fl. oz. and $19.50 for 32 fl. oz. If the price tag seems a bit high, remember that these detergents are specialty fabric care. Think of all the trips to the dry cleaner you'll save yourself. And more importantly, how taking proper care of your clothes will extend their life.

The Laundress products are sold at beautyhabit.com, beauty.com (they don't have the Denim Wash yet) and thelaundress.com (you can see a full list of store and online retailers here too).

Happy Laundering!

Clinique's Cream Shaper for Eyes

I have a difficult time finding an eyeliner pencil that works for me. Pencils usually leave a mark in the crease of my right eye within a few hours. Liquid eyeliner and Laura Mercier's powder eye liner are the only liners that have not caused irritation and left a mark in my crease. I mention the irritation factor because I have tried many waterproof formula eye pencils and my lid twitches within an hour of application.

I had pretty much given up on finding a suitable pencil until a friend mentioned Clinique's Cream Shaper for Eyes pencil. She too has the crease mark thing happen and had no such issue after using this pencil. I decided it was worth my $13.50 to see if this pencil would work for me too.

Clinique's Cream Shaper for Eyes pencil is available in eight different shades. I purchased "Egyptian"; a beautiful olive shade with a hint of shimmer. The pencil is creamy but not too soft. I was able to apply this effortlessly and it didn't smudge at all during the day.

I was so happy with my new find that I went and purchased the Starry Plum and Brown Sugar shades. Starry Plum is a pretty violet with a hint of shimmer and Brown Sugar is a matte deep chocolate color. I have worn all three shades numerous times and have never had any irritation or smudging of any sort.

Clinique's Cream Shaper for Eyes pencil is available internationally wherever Clinique is sold and online at gloss.com, sephora.com and saks.com.

up next: The Laundress Denim Wash and Whites Detergent

PINK Magazine

I've written a few posts recently about magazine articles and just wanted to give a "shout out" to a magazine I have really enjoyed since it hit the scene almost two years ago, PINK magazine.

PINK magazine was brought to my attention one Saturday afternoon in Spring 2005. I happen to be watching CNN and the founding editor, Cynthia Good, was discussing the newly launched magazine. I was intrigued and immediately went to their website and got myself a subscription.

PINK magazine salutes and honors working women. Last year they featured top women execs in the advertising world, and this years February/March issue named 15 women PINK believe symbolize the new generation of business influencers. Household names Suze Orman, Kate Spade, Hilary Rodham-Clinton and Iman have graced previous PINK covers.

Past issues have also featured articles on sex slavery, domestic violence in the workplace and women at war. PINK has also addressed politics, cancer research and ethics. They still manage to talk about finance and fashion too. You get the idea; they discuss real life and issues that affect many of us (directly or indirectly).

The magazine is geared towards corporate professional women. Which I'm not, at least not right now. But that's where I see myself headed and this magazine continually provides great articles that make me see I can get there and how to get there.

Go to pinkmagazine.com to find out more.

up next: Clinique's Cream Shaper pencil

Shu Uemura to introduce hair care

L'Oreal's Professional Products Division, L'Oreal USA's professional hair care company, announced last week that Shu Uemura Art of Hair will have a June debut in 500 salons across the USA.

Yes, Shu Uemura. The Japanese makeup artist whose brand makes luxurious makeup brushes, amazing makeup and is probably best known for it's eyelash curler. (FYI: L'Oreal bought a majority stake in Shu Uemura in 2000)

Shu Uemura was instrumental in the development of the line. And L'Oreal worked with several salons and stylists to assess the brand's heritage and to make sure the salon distribution channel would be right for Art of Hair.

The nine item prestige hair care and seven item styling line will differentiate itself by using formulas that contain oils, not silicone to blend nature and science.

Within hair care, there is a shampoo, conditioner and masque available for three different categories: color treated, damaged and dry. Shampoos will retail for $40 each; conditioners for $50 each and masques for $60 each.

Full Shimmer is for color treated hair and uses musk rose oil as a key ingredient to add vibrancy to color. This category uses rose of Japan as its key scent.

Moisture Velvet was formulated with camellia oil to help nourish dry hair and uses camellia petal as its fragrance.

Silk Bloom, for damaged hair, uses argan oil to repair the structure of the hair fiber.

Styling items include Depsea Hair Foundations, which are meant to smooth the hair cuticle to create a proper base for styling. There's also Shape Paste, a strong-hold hair putty made for sculpted styles; Silk Oil, a light serum to help control frizz; Satin Design, a conditioning lotion; Liquid Fabric, used to invigorate curls, IronDesign, a heat protective spray, and Sheer Lacquer, a high-hold finishing spray. Each styling item will retail for $30.

Shu Uemura Art of Hair will first be available to those salons that carry Kerastase, another L'Oreal owned brand, at the back bar and sell only three other brands. Art of Hair will expand to key markets in the first part of 2008, which includes France, Great Britain, Spain, Italy and Japan.

There will be no specialty store distribution for the line, where the brand currently sells its makeup and skin care lines. Products will be available in the four Shu Uemura stores in the U.S.; Costa Mesa, Boston, New York and San Francisco.

The packing is gorgeous and vibrant and I can't wait to try it. When Shu Uemura's name is on the product you know it's first class.

up next: PINK magazine

crazylibellule & the poppies

I mentioned in my previous post about Lucky magazine that I ordered an item I had seen in the magazine before I was finished reading the magazine. While I was patiently waiting for my packages to arrive I found out that there was more to the crazylibellule & the poppies fragrances than met the eye.

crazylibellule & the poppies was created by Isabelle Masson-Mandonnaud, the original founder of (what's now) Sephora. There are seven scents in three different mood collections. You can combine scents within each collection.

The packaging and price on these little gems is wonderful. $16 for five grams of fragrant happiness. The sturdy and whimisical retro-chic paper tube that holds these solid perfumes will have all your girlfriends wondering what this new item is in your makeup bag. Since they're naturally spill-proof, this is an easy to pack travel item.

The Shanghaijava collection is inspired by the Far East.
scents: Ananas Imperial, Blue Orchidee, Encens Mystic, Ginger & Coconut, Lilas Spiritual, Litchi Blossom and Musc & Patchouli. I ordered Ananas Imperial, Blue Orchidee and Litchi Blossom through Amazon. My favorite is Ananas Imperial; hour after hour I catch the subtle scent of blackcurrant with a hint of cedar and realize it's me. I found Blue Orchidee unobjectionable yet unimpressive; the orange and ylang seemed to stay with me, but faded entirely within a few hours. I thought I would love Litchi Blossom because it has litchi in it's base, heart and top notes; instead I was disappointed by continually smelling just the rose heart note.

Poule de Luxe Collection is a fragrance course in vanilla.
scents: Vanilla Fruit Sorbert, Vanilla Lemon Pie, Vanilla Moka, Vanilla Pom d'Amour, Vanilla Pralines, Vanilla Macaroons and Vanilla Sucre Glace. I ordered Vanilla Fruit Sorbet, afraid that other selections may be too sweet. The raspberry and vanilla combo is very enticing and the faint iris makes this a winner in my book.

Les Divines Alcoves Collection is romance and sophistication.
scents: Amoureuse, Aux Anges, Dans tes Bras, Le Braiser, Presque Nuit, Ton Moi Prince and Tout Oblier. I ordered Tout Oblier. Reminiscent of Hermes' Hiris, the iris was soft and feminine without overpowering my senses. I am very intrigued by the berry, black pepper, tea, jasmine, rose, musc, patchouli, sandalwood and vanilla blend in Amoureuse.

For more in-depth reviews of the Shanghaijava and Les Divines Alcoves collections go to boisdejasmin.typepad.com. Go to nowsmellthis.blogharbor.com for a detailed review of more scents from the Poule de Luxe collection.

Crazylibellule & The Poppies is available online at b-glowing.com, beautyhabit.com and amazon.com (the order is fulfilled by b-glowing).

up next: Shu Uemura dives into hair care

Diva & mom

My mom was visiting me this week (reason for lack of posts). We had a great time watching chick flicks and eating yummy food. We also went shopping (surprised?) and a quick stop at Target brought a nice surprise.

Two of my favorite British beauty brands, Boots and Rimmel are now at my Target. I really like both these brands and have to admit that I also have a selfish reason for rejoicing in my recent Target discovery, I don't have to go to Wal-Mart anymore (Rimmel was only available at Wal-Mart in the U.S. until last year). Wal-Mart never had the Rimmel collections I'd see in magazine ads and what they did have looked like it had been used as a tester.

The Rimmel Underground products have been in many Spring editorials and I have been waiting to get my mitts on them. Target had a HUGE six foot display with all these goodies. I was tempted by the glitter in the Stir It Up cream eyeshadow and the color combinations in the Three-Sum powder eyeshadow compacts but ended up purchasing two Gloss Over lip gloss compacts. The glosses are super sheer and very pretty.

worth noting: My mom absolutely loves the Rimmel Extreme Lash Mascara. She bought two tubes because it's always sold out in her stores. I almost fell over when I saw it was only $1.98. It gave her small straight lashes volume without clumps.

Boots was slowly introduced in the U.S. starting in 2004 and is now available at more than 1,500 Target stores. Target is carrying four ranges of Boots items: No7, Botanics, Time Dimensions and Mediterranean. No7 is a makeup line (their mascara for sensitive eyes is FANTASTIC); Botanics offers skin and body care products; Time Dimensions is an antiaging skin care system and Mediterranean is a bath and body care line. One of my friends raves about the Mediterranean bergamot body line (my next purchase?).

Check both these lines out when you get a chance. Rimmel and Boots offer great products at a price point that won't break the bank. Boots is available at more than 1,500 Target stores and over 500 CVS stores, select Boots items are available at target.com. Rimmel is available at select Wal-Mart and Target stores.

up next: crazylibellule & the poppies review

why spring cleaning is a good idea

I wrote a post last week about Spring Cleaning. After following my own advice and tackling boxes and bags of clothes and other miscellaneous items that seemed to just be hanging out, I not only have more space and less clutter, I have removed some past fashion mistakes.

Not in any particular order, here are a few no-no's that went bye-bye.

High Rise pants. These don't stop at your belly button, they actually cover it and hit the smallest part of your torso just under your ribcage. I found a few pairs and thought, "high rise is making a comeback, let's see just see what they look like". The good news is that they still fit. The bad news is that they not only look hideous but they are so uncomfortable I can't believe I once wore pants like this for 12 hours a day.

Tops that stop at your hips. The surefire way to emphasize the widest part of your body. And leaving these tops untucked with those high rise pants certainly couldn't have been a very good look.

Crop tops. These definitely only worked with the high rise pants. I haven't worn these in at least seven years (hopefully longer). The fact that I moved a few times and just couldn't part with these is just silly.

This was a case when I had no problem getting rid of a fashion faux pas, or three. I couldn't get to Goodwill quick enough.

What fashion mistakes are you hiding?

More Travel Talk

I was reading my Packing for Travel post from last week and thought of a few other pieces of information that are worth mentioning.

Staying with family or friends? Pack less and do laundry. Instead of packing four black t-shirts, pack two then wash them when they're dirty. You can also hand wash easy stuff before going to sleep (workout gear, tank tops, socks, etc.) and let air dry overnight.

Try on the out of season clothing you want to pack. If you live in Chicago and are going to the Caribbean in February, don't just throw your bathing suit in your luggage. Try it on to make sure it still fits properly and it isn't showing signs of too much wear.

If you must check a bag, pack a change of clothes, including underwear and socks, in your carry-on bag. Don't check items you'll need in the next 24 hours (medication and makeup come to mind).

Okay, now that you have some (more) diva tips for packing, go plan that trip.

InStyle April Issue

I couldn't wait to dig into my April issue of InStyle because it's the annual issue of their 148 Best Beauty Buys. But this issue has so many goodies it took me a few days to get through it. Where do I start?

I'll be boring and begin at the beginning.

Halle Berry looks stunning on the cover. The interview and fashion layout (pgs 144-151) is really spectacular. I found myself thinking, "She's smart, beautiful and talented, I want to be friends with her". The Halle Style inset has some great insights into why she always looks so great.

I loved the InStyle compilation of all the amazing gowns from the Academy Awards in "the Look of the Oscars" (pgs 176-188). My absolute favorite pictures in this section are the ones of Helen Mirren, Diane Keaton and Jodie Foster in "Nobody Does It Better". That title definitely sums up the grace, beauty and class those three women continue to display.

Four Faces of Spring (pgs 419-425) has the beautiful Maggie Q showing off bronze shadow, pink lips, black eyeliner and nude lip looks you'll want to replicate. Thank goodness Dior makeup artist Shane Paish tells us what he did and what products he used.

Organic Beauty (pgs 429-433) breaks down what the terms organic and natural in beauty products really mean. There's also a "how to" on reading an organic label.

saved the best for last: 148 Best Beauty Buys (pgs 455-486) speaks for itself. InStyle takes four different categories (makeup, skin, hair and body) and asks almost 50 experts in each category to name their favorites. Whether you are looking for foundation, sunscreen or nail color, InStyle tells you who's got the best. There's also a shopping list that provides internet addresses and phone numbers of where you can find mentioned products.

If you don't already have a copy, go get one. This one is worth re-reading many times. You can also go to instyle.com for a peek inside.

Kiehl's Yerba Mate Skincare

Kiehl's Since 1851 is ready to rollout their newest skin care line. The three product collection is formulated with the South American herb Yerba Mate.

Yerba Mate is harvested from a tree native to Brazil, Paraguay and Argentina. It is known to contain 24 vitamins (including A, C, E, B-1 and B-2), 15 amino acids and 11 polyphenols.

The Yerba Mate Tea Cleanser ($20.50 for 8.4 oz.) is a lightweight, foaming cleanser that will gently cleanse and effectively remove excess oil and residue.


The Yerba Mate Tea Toner ($24.50 for 8.4 oz.) soothes and balances skin after cleansing.

The facial moisturizer, Yerba Mate Tea Lotion ($35 for 2.5 oz.), is a lightweight lotion that will help improve skin texture, clarity and radiance without clogging pores.

The Kiehl's Since 1851 Yerba Mate skin care line will be available next month in the brands 155 specialty store doors, including its 23 freestanding Kiehl's boutiques as well as Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and Barneys New York. You can also order from the Kiehl's website.

Real Simple April issue

I mentioned the Real Simple April issue in yesterday's post. After further review, there are a couple more articles I've got to bring to your attention.

The "broken promises" article (pgs 145-151) is definitely worth reading at least a few times. Packaging pros and makeup artists discuss why beauty-product malfunctions occur, whether they can be prevented and how to remedy problems. Lots of us figured out how to unclog our hair-spray but I didn't know you could repair shattered eye shadow.

And this month they "road tested" mascara (pgs 219-222). They picked out winners and runner-ups in eight categories from lengthing to won't smudge. The side note about what color mascara will enhance your eyes is very informative.

Gotta run, I just realized my InStyle is waiting for me to rifle through it. (I'll let you know what goodies I find in there)

Spring Cleaning

Tomorrow is the first day of Spring. Celebrate by "Spring Cleaning" your wardrobe.

Get rid of the winter clothes you didn't wear this past season. Chances are that if you didn't wear it this winter, you won't wear it next winter either.

Re-assess last year's Spring and Summer items. Are there any trendy items you won't wear? Were there some items that were never right and you found yourself fussing when you were wearing them?

Try clothes on if you're pulling them out of storage. Do you still like the fit? Did you miss a stain? Does anything need to be repaired? Is it still in fashion?

Take any shoes or handbags to the cobbler for repair. It's much less expensive to repair or re-sole your favorite leather sandals than it is to buy a new pair. By taking them in early, your shoes will be ready to wear on the first warm (and dry) day.

If you're struggling with the "getting rid of it" aspect, think of positive things to do with your purges. Donate it to a local woman's shelter, give it to a friend who would love to wear it or drop it off at Goodwill. Just don't hold onto it.

Still seem like to much to handle? Call in a professional. A Professional Organizer. They can help you make those decisions you've been delaying. If you happen to live near Stamford, CT, call Professional Organizer Matt Baier (my brother-in-law), otherwise go to NAPO.net for a local referral.

worth noting: I just received my April issue of Real Simple magazine today. Check out what Gail Blanke has to say about clutter in her article "declutter your mind" that starts on page 229. Great insight.

Hope you have a great Spring!

Packing for Travel

Thirteen years ago I swore I would never pack more than I could carry. Ever.

Back then carry-on guidelines allowed two pieces of carry-on luggage and one personal item. I went on a trip with a girlfriend and brought a garment bag and a duffle bag. It first occured to me that I had too much stuff when I was hustling in O'Hare to make a connection between the B and C gates. The further I went, the heavier that luggage got. The gate closed two minutes before I got there, and I know I could have made it if I hadn't been weighed down by my bags.

On the way home from that trip I thought I had my solution by checking one of my bags. When that was lost for two days I decided I would never struggle with luggage again.

I have only checked a bag once in the past thirteen years (I realize that there are exceptions to every rule and mine was made on the way back from Paris). Here are the guidelines I follow to make sure I've got what I need all in one piece of carry-on luggage.

Two simple words are my guide when packing for a trip: BE PREPARED. This "rule" applies to every tip listed below.

Check the weather forecast for your final destination. You don't want to arrive in Chicago with your favorite cashmere sweaters only to find it's going to be 60 degrees the weekend you're there.

Have a printed itinerary that includes your contacts and any confirmation numbers regarding reservations you've arranged (hotels, airlines, etc.). By having the names of people you spoke with or printed confirmation numbers, you'll be able to resolve any miscommunication.

Make a checklist of essential items. Then use that as your packing guide for every trip. If you travel at least once a month, I suggest a list for cold and warm climates.

Avoid over packing by planning your outfits. It's important here to be honest about what you'll be doing on your trip. If it's a business trip, you won't need three pairs of jeans. Will you really be able to fit a workout in?

No more than three pairs of shoes (total). Wear the heaviest pair, pack the other two. I love shoes, some would say more than most other women. I still stick to this rule (on warm weather vacations I allow a flip flop for a fourth shoe). Again, be honest. Planning on walking a lot? Leave the high heels at home.

Keep a toiletry kit packed and ready to go. When I unpack from a trip, I replenish what I've used so I'm ready for the next trip. Next time you stock up on your skincare, ask for a sample size of the products you're purchasing. Keep up to date with liquid restrictions for carry-on bags by visiting tsa.gov (currently you're allowed up to three ounces of liquids that fit in a quart size Ziploc bag).

diva tip: Invest in a bag that allows you to compress the volume of your clothes. Eagle Creek makes Pack-It Compressor Bags. Zip it up and take out the volume, up to 60%. Your clothes can get wrinkled, so I suggest using it as a laundry bag.

Flight 001 has a great line called Spacepak. There are six different bags: Suitor, Lingerie, Clothes, Underwear, Toiletry and Shoe. All except the Suitor Bag are double sided and labeled clean and dirty on the inside. There are four small vents that allow you to compress and release any air. They also have a suggested system of how to pack the different bags in your suitcase to optimize space. Spacepak is more expensive than some compressor bags but worth it since you won't suffer wrinkly consequences and can pack clean clothes in it.

Eagle Creek is available online at Rei.com and EMS.com. Flight 001 has seven stores and is available online at flight001.com.

Hope you can use some of that information next time you pack for a trip.

Happy Travelling!!

Poppy King

You could perceive naming a lipstick company "Lipstick Queen" as arrogant.

Meet the woman who deserves the title: Poppy King.

Poppy started her first lipstick company in 1991. She couldn't find a good brown or deeper color and felt the lipsticks available were too greasy. She then created what she wanted: rich, opaque, pigment filled lip colors. Her first collection was called "Seven Deadly Sins".

POPPY was a success almost instantly in (her homeland) Australia and then she launched the line in the United States in 1993. She appeared in many top magazines and television programs around the world.

In 2002, after more than 10 years as CEO of Poppy Industries, Poppy King dissolved her company and later that year was named the Color Designer and Vice President, Creative Marketing for Prescriptives.

Poppy never stopped thinking of lipstick and lip products; so in 2006 she returned to having her own business. This time using the nickname friends call her: Lipstick Queen.

I have been wanting to look at Lipstick Queen ever since the product line was released in December (I still have about 20 lipsticks from her Poppy days so I know what a color and texture genius she is). I finally got to check it out at the Barneys New York in Chicago last weekend and I was not disappointed.

Lipstick Queen's first product collection offers 20 lipsticks. 10 shades in two different formulas, Saint or Sinner. Saint has 10% pigment and Sinner has 90% pigment. Sinner is labeled as a matte lipstick. Remember, this is Poppy King, so this matte lipstick is actually very smooth and creamy. The Saint lipsticks are sheer and moist and provide just enough color depth for those who like something a little lighter.

There are beautiful colors (Rust, Wine, Red, Berry and Coral) and gorgeous neutral tones (Rose, Natural, Pink, Nude and Rouge) that will have your friends oohing and aahing every time you wear your shade. I thought I would end up with a Wine or Berry Saint, but after testing a few colors in both formulas I ended up with Wine Sinner. I fell in love with the color and creamy texture.

You've also got to visit the Lipstick Queen website. My favorite section was Shades. After you choose between the Sinner and Saint categories you find yourself looking at the product packaging and all ten shades of lipstick. What makes this section unique is that you click on the shade you're interested in and a larger image of it appears with a description of the color (I compared my lipstick and can say with confidence that the color you're shown is very accurate).

Lipstick Queen is available at barneys.com and select stores.

Welcome Back, Poppy!! I can't wait to see what you do next.

Must Reads in Lucky Magazine April issue

The April issue of Lucky Magazine is filled with so many wonderful pretty pictures I wanted to mention a few articles that deserve your full attention too.

The Beauty Spy section always catches my eye because there's so many new fun beauty products to discuss. Don't miss the "surprise bestseller!" on page 186. I was so intrigued by the cute packaging I couldn't wait to look through the rest of the magazine before checking out the Crazylibellule and the Poppies solid perfume on amazon.com. (I just ordered three of the seven scents and will let you know what I think when I've gotten a chance to try them)

The "Do It Yourself" article that starts on page 212 has four women getting advice from a dermatologist and a makeup artist on choosing sunscreen. All four women have very different lifestyles and there's great advice on how to tackle specific sunscreen issues.

I know you would find the Lucky Spring Bag Guide on your own, but it's so wonderful, I just had to gush a little. The 10 different categories offer such variety, in style and price, that you'll find yourself wanting more than one new handbag this season. Be sure to check out the model (and bag) pictured with each category to see how a specific style would work in real life.

Lucky Breaks (p.281-286) has one big and three smaller giveaways and 15 discount offers worth reviewing. Beautyhabit.com, Tocca and Rafe are just a few of the participants this month. There are also eight exclusive luckybreaksonline.com deals on page 54.

If you don't already have a copy, the April issue of Lucky magazine is in stores now. Visit their website at luckymag.com.

Why I Love Buying Clothes at Target

Yes, that Target. You've seen the great ads. But you're wondering if it's really the store for you. Do yourself a favor, go to your nearest Target when you have an hour (or two) to really explore it. You won't be disappointed.

To keep my focus, I'm just discussing women's clothing and accessories in this post.

I'll start by naming names. Clothing Designers offered: Issac Mizrahi, Mossimo, Liz Lange and their "Go!International" brand that currently features clothing designed by Proenza Schouler. And Target just introduced Handbags and Sandals designed by Rafe.

The Spring tees and shorts they have in store right now are definitely worth a look. Match a cute cap sleeve tee with a fun pair of Madras Plaid shorts and you've got a great outfit for under $30. The graphic tees, both men's and women's, are so cool you'll find yourself wondering if you should by three or four.

Whether it's a dress, blazer, jacket, sweater, tank top, skirt or pants, the clothing assortment is so extensive that you'll be able to find just what you want in no time. And if you're in the market for a new bathing suit, this is the place to go. Plenty of one pieces and lots of bikini options (tops and bottoms are sold separately to ensure a perfect fit).

Make sure you check out shoes. I'm serious. I saw a friend last year in these amazing metallic wedges and was surprised when she said she purchased them at Target. Not so surprised (I just hadn't looked) that I couldn't go out the next day and pick up a pair for myself. And the selection is even better this year. The espadrilles they're offering will keep you in step with 2007 Spring trends.

The belt selection is great too; I learned this from the same friend who brought the shoe selection to my attention. When I'm in the market for a new belt, I look at Target before I go anywhere else. And they haven't let me down yet. What's even better? They're under $20.

I hope you enjoy your Target trip as much as I enjoy mine. If you don't have a Target near you, you can find them through the Internet at target.com.

Stella McCartney and skinCARE

CARE by Stella McCartney, inspired by her personal philosophies, is a line of luxury skincare made with 100% certified, organic active ingredients. While many products in the marketplace throw the word "organic" around like a hot tamale, CARE by Stella McCartney is formulated under the rigorous standards of ECOCERT - an international organic certification mark.

CARE by Stella McCartney's nine products (two cleansers, one toner, three elixirs and two moisturizers) contain NO petrochemicals, silicones, chemical preservatives, endangered plant species and genetically-modified or animal-derived ingredients.

Both cleansers remove makeup and impurities. The Purifying Milk Cleanser, geared for normal to dry or sensitive skin, also soothes and comforts your skin. The Purifying Foaming Cleanser is better for those with combination or normal to oily skin.

The Toning Floral Water, meant to be used between cleansing and moisturizing, will tone, soothe and assist your moisturizer.

The three elixirs, think of these as serums, are designed to meet skin specific needs and compliment the 5 Benefits Moisturizing Lotion/Cream. The Nourishing Elixir helps to firm and revitalize your skin. The Radiance & Youth Elixir stimulates and energizes lackluster skin. The Soothing & Calming Elixir gently soothes and comforts skin that needs a little TLC.

I tried all three elixirs and the texture is different for each. The Nourishing Elixir has the consistency of a lightweight face oil, the Radiance Elixir is a quick drying gel and the Soothing & Calming Elixir is a lightweight lotion.

Both facial moisturizers hydrate and protect your skin. You're supposed to choose either fluid or cream depending on what texture you prefer. I tried the 5 Benefits Moisturizing Cream; it's a lighter weight cream, not thick and heavy at all.

There are couple of things to consider if you're thinking of purchasing any of the CARE by Stella McCartney products. Since CARE by Stella McCartney is made with organic raw materials that are not refined or chemically modified; no two batches will be the same. When you go to replenish an item, the new one may have a variation in color or aroma level. And if you have known skin allergies, pay close attention to the ingredient list. All essential oils (there's quite a few) are listed on the product label so you can avoid any ingredients that cause you irritation.

Best way to try the line? Pick up the Discovery Set. You get a 5ml trial size of each of the three elixirs and the 5 Benefits Moisturizing Cream. CARE by Stella McCartney is available at select Sephora stores and sephora.com.