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Friday, July 31, 2009

New Optical Illusion : Longer Table Size Illusion

New Optical Illusion : Longer Table Size Illusion

Is the green table wider than the red table is long?
Roll your mouse over the mask to find out.

Janey Needs Her Own Blog, Erika

One of my BFF's (best blogging friends) is the lovely Erika, from Makeup Bag. She has three daughters who are product-obsessed, just like their mama. But her youngest, Janey, takes beauty to a whole nuther level. She might just be the most entertaining 7 year old ever.

This video is absolutely hysterical, so I had to share. Erika, I think it's time Janey got her own blog.

Dashing Diva Gelife Manicure


As a beauty blogger, it's somewhat embarrassing to admit that my nails are usually a tore up mess. I love the look of freshly manicured nails, but there's just too much maintenance to keep them looking that way. And I'm a klutz, so I always seem to be breaking or chipping up the manicurist's handiwork mere hours after she's completed her masterpiece. Then I end up staring at a jacked up manicure for the next two weeks, silently cursing my inability to make my manicure last.

Which is why I am currently obsessed with Dashing Diva Gelife, a revolutionary new nail service that gives unbeatable gloss and helps maintain the health of the natural nail underneath. Gelife is a super-thin coat of gel painted, just like nail polish, over the natural nail. The gel is then cured under a UV light after each application, which immediately sets the formula. So once you're done, you're done. None of this sitting under a dryer for 15 minutes/ blowing on your nails just to be safe/ scared to touch anything for an hour after you leave the salon type of nonsense. And get this...it's chip-resistant up to two weeks!

I wish my camera could accurately capture the mirror shine of my nails. The photo above just doesn't do them justice.

Gelife launched with three options: clear, cool pink and warm pink (I chose the cool). The only caveat I have is that the current color options go on very sheer. So when you get any gunk underneath your nail, you can see it and it kinda detracts from the gorgeousness of your nails. But the solution is pretty simple...I've just been using my Sephora Brand Nail Scoop Cleaner a little more often to keep my manicure looking so fresh and so clean clean.

I'm really excited for September, when Gelife will be available in the following shades:









Left to right: Darkest Burgundy, Deep Red, Taupe Brown












Left to right: Beige, Hot Pink, Coral Orange

For Dashing Diva nail spa locations and hours, visit dashingdiva.com.

Gelife price list:
Gelife Natural Manicure - $45
Gelife Natural Pedicure - $60
Gelife French Manicure - $60
Gelife French Tip Extension - $70

My Blowout Is The Bomb Y'all!

Peep my super sleek blowout, courtesy of Emma H at Cutler Salon in NYC. Isn't it amazin'? I'm glowing!

I was waltzing around the city that day thinkin' I was too cute. You couldn't tell me nothin'.

Emma tamed my tresses with a T3 hairdryer and flat iron, and polished it off with a little of Redken's Sleek Obedience Anti-Frizz Solid Serum - a pomade that she recommended I invest in.

Another reason to love Emma? She talked me out of cutting my bangs, suggesting that I simply switch my part from the left to the right side. And she was right. I don't know what kind of optical illusion it creates, but my hair looks 10 times more flattering, and it actually makes my face look thinner. And isn't that the ultimate goal?

If I lived in New York, I would definitely be scheduling bi-weekly visits with Emma. In fact, I think I might just make an appointment for September when I return. Can't be looking a hot mess at Fashion Week.

Oh, and did I mention that Emma does Rachael Ray's hair?

Cutler Salon
47 W. 57th Street (between Park & Lexington)
New York, NY 10012

LORAC Gift With Purchase, Plus Free Shipping


August 1-15, get a full-size eye shadow trio in Bronze Bombshell, a luxe makeup bag, and free shipping with any purchase of $50 or more at loraccosmetics.com.

10 Things You Didn’t Know About Khloe Kardashian

Have you seen my beauty Q&A with Khloe Kardashian? It’s must-see TV, though my opinion might be a bit biased. The exclusive interview with Khloe Kardashian and her makeup artist, Mario Dedivanovic, features their must-have products, makeup techniques and beauty secrets!

If you’ve already seen the interview and are fiending for more Dash dish, consider this a companion piece…

10 Things You Didn’t Know About Khloe Kardashian

1) She believes that being a prankster helps her hone her acting skills.

2) The Keeping Up With The Kardashians episode that makes her cringe is when she participated in an acting class.

3) Khloe’s fashion icons are Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen, Jackie O, Audrey Hepburn, Victoria Bekham and Rihanna. “I love that one day she’s a schoolgirl and the next day she’s a dominatrix,” Khloe says of Rihanna. “I can appreciate that because I have multiple personalities
too.”

4) If she could only wear one designer for the rest of her life, it would be Alexander Wang.

5) “When it comes to my nails, I just always do crazy. I recently went to Africa and all of the kids were totally fascinated by my nails, which were really long with silver glitter tips and rhinestones on my ring fingers in the shape of a K.”

6) Khloe hardly ever wears false lashes because her natural lashes are forever long. “She just doesn’t need them,” Mario told me. I was up close and personal, and I can attest to the fact that Khloe won the genetic lottery when it comes to her lashes. They are ridiculously lush.

7) After seeing Khloe in certain photographs, people swear that Khloe has had her lips done – which isn’t true. It’s just that her natural lip color is the same as her skin…so when her lips are all done up, it makes them really pop.

8) Khloe is contemplating having the inside of her wrist inked with the word "Bunny," written in her mother’s handwriting. Since she was little, Bunny has been her mom’s pet name for her – and the new tattoo would be a compliment to this one she got last year.

9) Khloe says she would never get a name tattooed on her body, with the exception of her family. “Honey, even husbands come and go,” she joked.

10) Since watching the video, my inbox has been inundated with emails asking what lipstick/gloss Khloe was wearing in the video. Here’s the recipe: First, Mario lined her lips with MAC Lip Pencil in Spice. Then he mixed Josie Maran Finger Paints and MAC Lipstick in Myth, and filled in her lips. Finally, he topped it all off with NARS Lip Gloss in Turkish Delight.

Want more Kardashians deets? Be sure to check out my interviews with Kim Kardashian and Mario Dedivanovic!

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Happy Birthday, Bikini: Venus Razor Giveaway

It’s hard to believe, but this month marks the 60th anniversary of the bikini in America. When the first bikini was launched, it caused an explosion on the fashion scene, and through the years that little piece of fabric has gone through quite an evolution in length, fabrics, colors and cuts. Today, the bikini is a defining force in summer style.

When it comes to donning a bikini, confidence is key...and, smooth skin can help. According to a recent survey, almost 75% of women said that they felt more confident after shaving. Research also shows that shaving makes women feel more feminine, polished and beautiful.

So, before slipping on that swimsuit, be sure to get your south of the border in order with Venus Embrace. The first five blade razor for women, Venus Embrace has a ribbon of moisture and hugs every curve for a close shave and dramatically smooth skin.

To help celebrate the bikini’s birthday, Spoiled Pretty is partnering with Venus for a giveaway. One lucky reader will win:


* Venus Embrace and Embrace replacement blades
* Gillette Satin Care Lavender Kiss Shave Gel
* Olay Touch of Sun Quench Plus
* Fedora hat with changeable black ribbon around the brim
* Colorful oversized beach towel
* Mara Hoffman bikini

This giveaway's approximate retail value is $250!

To enter the giveaway, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address. The subject line should read "Bikini Birthday Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Wednesday, August 5. One winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Thursday, August 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. residents.

Good luck!

Beauty Bloggerati Spotlight



Tammy from A Mom in Red High Heels is giving away a Brazilian Blowout!

Try the Talika Eye Therapy Patch and give your concealer the day off. Julia from All About The Pretty has the deets.

Listen up, Twilight fans. Amber from Beauty Blogging Junkie has found Cullen Family Crest Bobby Pins!

Jennifer from Beyond Beauty Basics has some tips for 10-minute summer hair.

Suave made hairspray phobic Sarah, from Hair Thursday, into a believer.

Bailey over at Makeover Momma shows you how to polish up on your at-home manicure skills.

There's a British invasion goin' on over at Makeup and Beauty Blog. Check out Karen's review of Illamasqua cosmetics.

Makeup Bag's Erika shares her favorite summery scents.

Carla from Product Girl thinks this bathtime treat is the bomb!

Elessa's review of Stila's new Lip Enamel Luxe Gloss and Smudge Pots have me pulling out my Visa card. Visit Pursebuzz and see what I mean.

Check out Talking Makeup to learn how to cop Sienna Miller's red carpet coiff.

What's better than a smoothie in the summertime? The Jet Set Girls found this one from Clinique.

Lisa from These Lips Were Made For Glossin' swears this MAC lip gloss is good to the last drop.

Lancôme Friends & Family


Calling all beauty junkies in New York, New Jersey, California and Texas!

Lancôme boutiques are offering you and your readers an exclusive Friends & Family discount. Enjoy 20% off everything you love at the Lancôme boutiques. This is a great opportunity to stock up on your favorite products or try something new, such as their limited-edition fall collection Declaring Indigo.

Print out the photo above and bring it with you to one of Lancôme's boutiques between August 1st and August 8th, 2009. Go to lancomeboutique.com for a location near you.

This discount is not valid at any other Lancôme locations, counters or lancome-usa.com.

NARS Lip Gloss in Hot Wired


Just to prove that I say what I mean and I mean what I say - today on my lunch break, I visited my local Sephora to pick up the NARS products Troy Jensen used to create this pretty in pink lip look on Kim Kardashian.

I left Schiap Lipstick on the shelf because it was just a little much for me, but I did end up buying Hot Wired Lip Gloss. I'm very pleased with my purchase. What do you think?


The Bobbi Brown Website Gets A Facelift

Bobbi Brown has a new website! Stop by and check out the new color swatches, how-to videos, “Chat With an Artist,” and brush up your makeup skills with brand new tips from Bobbi.

They’ve also made it easier for you to share your favorite products, tips and articles via Facebook, Digg and del.icio.us. To celebrate the launch of our new ratings and reviews feature, for each review you write through August 28th you’ll be entered to win $450 worth of Bobbi makeup.

Bobbi Brown is also currently offering two free samples with any order and free shipping on purchases above $65.

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Revlon Colorstay Mineral Mousse Makeup: Buy Right Now!

At the risk of sounding snobbish, I haven't worn drugstore foundation since college. And even then, it looked a hot mess. But I was broke and I didn't have any other options.

Since then, I've been making my foundation purchases at Sephora and the department store beauty counters because my color is difficult to match and it's near impossible for me to buy without trying. And even if I did find a close color match, the formulation was either too dry, too greasy, too sheer or too opaque for my persnickety skin.

But I've changed my tune since I attended a Revlon event last week in New York City. We bloggers went home with a bunch of Revlon's newest goodies...and my favorite, by far, is their Colorstay Mineral Mousse Makeup. Since I tried it, it has become my go-to foundation. Can you believe? For less than $14, you can purchase one of the best foundations I've tried all year.

Colorstay Mineral Mousse Makeup has a unique air-whipped texture that dries to a soft matte finish...perfect for those with oily and combination skin. It wears like a dream all day, averting the mid-day greasies. The coverage is sheer enough to let your skin breathe, but not so heavy that it looks like a mask. I apply it with the BeautyBlender sponge to ensure a seamless finish. And I swear that my acne has taken a little time out since I started using it.

Do yourself a favor and go buy Revlon's Colorstay Mineral Mousse Makeup right now.

Kim Kardashian: Isn't She Pretty In Pink?


I don't think there's a better advertisement for NARS Cosmetics than these photos of Kim Kardashian. I mean, I've got more products than I know what to do with, and I'm still going to Sephora tomorrow to pick up NARS Lipstick in Schiap and Lip Lacquer in Hot Wired.



For the complete list of products Troy Jensen used to achieve these looks, visit his blog.

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

Cosmopolitan.com Gets A Makeover


Cosmopolitan.com recently got a makeover, and I'm loving the way it looks. I'm particularly digging the Cosmo's Sexy Beauty Secrets Blog. Give it a look-see!

Body Piercing Pictures and Experiences

Body Piercing Pictures and ExperiencesBody Piercing Pictures and Experiences

Two Twilight-Inspired Beauty Lines To Launch This Fall

Twilight Beauty, a new cosmetics brand themed after the series of films, will launch two lines debuting this Fall: Luna Twilight and Volturi Twilight. The two lines will be available in conjunction with the release of the second film, The Twilight Saga: New Moon, which arrives in theaters on November 20, 2009.

Esmy Mancia and Kimberly Clark of All About Beauty, the product development team behind numerous bestselling lines, developed the cosmetic products for Twilight Beauty, together with Cristina Bartolucci, the founder and Creative Director of DuWop Cosmetics.

“We have worked tirelessly to create innovative cosmetics of high quality to serve as the backbone for both lines,” explains Clark. “Twilight Beauty has coupled these products of note with edgy, sophisticated packaging that is undeniably striking.”

“With over 70 products, Twilight Beauty provides a unique and exceptional makeup experience that can be enjoyed by everyone from Twilight enthusiasts to women looking to highlight their own radiance,” adds Bartolucci.

Luna Twilight reflects the mood and spirit of the saga’s iconic female characters, presenting a collection that creates a harmonious blend between soft, natural beauty and stunning, fierce splendor. Notable products from the Luna Twilight line include First Light Body and Face Glow for radiant illumination and Gleam Metallic Mascara for captivating lashes.

Volturi Twilight offers entry into Twilight’s exclusive coven through use of the Volturi family crest as the brand’s logo. The line features Foreshadow Primer, an ultra-sheer eye base that provides the ultimate prep for a smoother, crease-proof eye shadow application that is coupled with loose glitter dust, called Labrynth Shadows. The highly pigmented loose powder shadows and the lid primer are housed in stackable pots, providing the ability to mix and match the colors to create personal, one-of-a-kind eye shadow favorites.

Luna Twilight will be available September 15, 2009 at Dillard’s and Nordstrom. Volturi Twilight will be available September 15, 2009 through specialty retailers. Both lines will be sold at TwilightBeauty.com, the exclusive website for both brands.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Physicians Formula Bronze Booster Giveaway


For this week's giveaway, Spoiled Pretty is partnering with Physicians Formula to help you get your faux glow on.

Three winners will receive the Bronze Booster collection - three bronzer products formulated with technology to give skin an enhanced natural-looking tan glow that goes the distance:

Bronze Booster Glow-Boosting Pressed Powder, $14.95
Provides an instant and lasting tan glow. The lightweight and ultra-blendable pressed bronzer glides on smoothly for an instant, even tan glow that builds easily to your desired level of bronze. Bronzing micropearls deliver a flawless, radiant finish. Available in three shades (Fair to Light, Light to Medium, Medium to Dark).

Bronze Booster Glow-Boosting Loose Bronzing Veil, $14.95
The triple action tan-boosting blend in this high-performance bronzing veil ensures results that are instant, long lasting and streak-free.
Available in three shades (Fair to Light, Light to Medium, Medium to Dark).

Bronze Booster Self-Tanning Bronzing Veil, $14.95
This versatile bronzer can be used alone or on tip of foundation.
Available in three shades (Fair to Light, Light to Medium, Medium to Dark).

All Physicians Formula products are available at drug and mass-market stores.

To enter the giveaway, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address. The subject line should read 'Bronze Booster Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Tuesday, August 4. Three winners will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Wednesday, August 5th, I'll announce the winners' names. Please, only one entry per person; duplicate entries will not increase your chances of winning. Contest is open to U.S. and Canadian residents.

Good luck!

Follow Zoya on Twitter, Get Free Nail Polish!


Follow Zoya on Twitter - and if they hit their goal of 5,000 followers by August 3rd, you'll receive a promo code redeemable for 3 polishes: America, Ali and Paz!

Offer valid in Continental U.S. only. Offer is not valid in conjunction with other promotions, discounts or offers. No purchase necessary.

Monday, July 27, 2009

Keeping Up With Khloe Kardashian: Exclusive Beauty Q&A


It's not easy keeping up with Khloe Kardashian. She films Keeping Up With The Kardashians in Los Angeles. She and her sister, Kourtney, filmed their upcoming reality show in Miami. Khloe recently traveled to Africa with other sister, Kim. And just this past weekend, she appeared with her family at an event in Atlantic City.

On Sunday, the fates smiled on me when our paths crossed in New York City. And thanks to her magician of a makeup artist, Mario Dedivanovic, I scored an interview with this dashing diva. I hope you enjoy this exclusive Q&A with Khloe as much as we enjoyed filming it.




Products featured in these videos include:

Diorskin Nude Natural Glow Hydrating Makeup
Lancome Hypnose Mascara
MAC Lip Pencil in Spice
La Mer Moisturizing Lotion
Child Fragrance by Apothia Beauty
The Celestial Powder in Candlelight by Kevyn Aucoin

Click here for 10 things you don't know about Khloe Kardashian.

Many thanks to Khloe Kardashian and Mario Dedivanovic for generously sharing their time and tips. Mwah!

If you loved this Q&A, my interviews with Kim Kardashian and Mario Dedivanovic are must reads!

New Optical Illusion : In and Out Optical Illusion

New Optical Illusion : In and Out Optical Illusion

Look at the center of the above image, while moving your head closer and farther away from your monitor.

BG Haute B18022 casual prom dresses/gowns

BG Haute B18022 casual prom dresses/gowns

Print - This strapless black and white print long gown with a train is classy and very couture. Sweetheart neckline with thick couture tuck single bow with ribbon flowing down of the gown with rhinestones embellishes the look of this gown. Incredibly fashion forward.

BG Haute B18018 black-red prom dresses/gowns

BG Haute B18018 black-red prom dresses/gowns

This is a very surrealist and sexy prom gown that is inspired by Salvador Dali. This gown has long black bodice and hemline with red lips at the bust line. Black bodice is form fitting and continues into a mermaid skirt with a chapel train. The lower part of the skirt has tulle under the lining to support the skirt and give it fullness. Center back zipper.

BG Haute B18016 prom dresses/gowns the joy of life

BG Haute B18016 prom dresses/gowns the joy of life

This short dress has unusual color combination of purple, turquoise and olive in solid colors. This strapless princess line dress creates an ingenious effect due to its pleated skirt and embellishment. Under the bustline, it is embellished with matching color solid square stones to the fabric that they are sewn on to give an unusual two and a half inch belt effect. Fun, Mardi Gras. Here it is.

BG Haute B18012 multi prom dresses/gowns

BG Haute B18012 multi prom dresses/gowns

The gay colors of this short strapless prom dress reflects the joy of the owner. It is fun, flashy and happy. It has brilliant colors of mauve, orange, green and burgundy over cotton candy pink background. Satin bodice of this dress has a sweetheart neckline with a royal blue applique flower. Royal blue ruched waist band totally compliments the floral applique. The skirt lining has a stiff tulle to hold the skirt full at all times.

BG Haute B18007 Black/White/Red strapless prom dresses/gowns

BG Haute B18007 Black/White/Red strapless prom dresses/gowns

This is an understated but totally assured dress for a girl with confidence. This short black and white empire waist dress has a sweetheart neckline. The shirred red belt under the bust line has a front bow. The skirt lining has stiff tulle to hold the skirt full at all times.

BG Haute B18001 aqua bold halter prom dresses/gown

BG Haute B18001 aqua bold halter prom dresses/gown

Sequin - This cute snazzy, fun short aqua gold all over sequined baby doll dress has a deep V neckline. Scalloped sequined pattern repeats throughout the body. Bubble skirt adds an interesting finish to the hemline. It is sexy and free spirited.

BG Haute B08021black magic prom dresses/gowns

BG Haute B08021black magic prom dresses/gowns

Short strapless liquid sequin prom dress. Whole body is vertically ruched. Sweetheart neckline has rhinestone embellishments. This is a glitzy statement piece.

BG Haute B07024 sexy prom dress is my intention

BG Haute B07024 sexy prom dress is my intention

Elegance and class are the two words comes to mind with fun thrown in. This short bubble dress cut in princess line with empire bust that is fitted. The hemline has tulle inserted to give the extra continuous puffy effect. Center back has a couture bow with rhinestone motif.

BG Haute B03155 prom dress/gown how much great for me

BG Haute B03155 prom dress/gown how much great for me

This is a slip asymmetrical long gown created in an unusual floral pattern. The inspiration is totally wild animal and softened by the inserted lace. Very light soft fabric has sequence beaded lace overlay on the bust line and godet insert in the hemline. The overlay on the bust line is heavily beaded.

BG Haute B03153 sexy prom dresses/gowns

BG Haute B03153 sexy prom dresses/gowns

This is another version of our baby doll dresses. It has thick shoulder bands with sweetheart neckline. Bodice has a lace overlay with sequined embellishments. Three and a half inch ruched waist band attached to four layered tulle skirt with wire hem line that gives the curvy flare. Center front has a large flower to bring the attention to tie bust line.

BG Haute B03069 prom dresses/gown

BG Haute B03069 prom dresses/gown

Short sexy two piece strapless sequin and beaded chantilly lace fully lined dress shows how to marry elegance with style. This dress has scalloped hemline with a sweetheart neckline. It comes with a wrap skirt that ties at the waist with full opening to give the freedom of movement with an exquisite leg line. This is two dresses in one.

BG Haute B01015 Fuchsia prom dresses/gown

BG Haute B01015 Fuchsia prom dresses/gown

Sequin - Want to be part of rarified social world, you must have this gown. Sexy, shimmery, eye catching. This strapless gown has all over sequin and bead work, fully lined with padded bra and has an uber high left side slit for a great leg line.

Sunday, July 26, 2009

This Week's Ideeli Sales


Heartloom Sale
Starts Monday, July 27
Prices start at $19 (up to 70% off )


Donald J Pliner Sale
Starts Monday, July 27
Prices start at $89 (up to 64% off)


Lacoste Home Sale
Starts Tuesday, July 28
Prices start at $14 (up to 74% off)


Mac & Jac Sale
Starts Wednesday, July 29
Prices start at $20 (up to 69% off)


Sweet Pea Sale
Starts Thursday, July 30
Prices start at $20 (up to 70% off)


Nicole Miller Sale
Starts Friday, July 31
Prices start at $74 (up to 70% off)


Denim of Virtue Sale
Sale date TBD
Prices start at $39 (up to 71% off)


Lacoste Sale
Sale date TBD
Prices start at $34 (up to 60% off)

Ideeli membership is free...click here for an invite, courtesy of Spoiled Pretty.
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