I'm always being asked what I love in terms of beauty items. This includes a number of items that I use a lot versus those that are new to me but are definitely in my routine! I have been a fan and am obsessed with Koh Gen Do which in addition to having a fab beauty line, they have a number of skincare items that are a must. I have enjoyed using their Body and Bath Body Milk as well as their Body Wash which is like having a spa treatment to start and end your day. When it comes to the face, I love L'Occitane exfoliating gel. For a quick rinse (especially in this heat) I suggest Shobha's rosewater cleansing cloths which I love whether I'm getting my brows threaded at their salon or as a refresher. When it comes to my lips, when I am keeping it simple - Evolution of Smooth is the perfect solution and super addictive. Finally, I love a good dark nail color and when I'm not rocking hues by Butter London, you can find me in Essie this hue is Wicked.
A perfect lip and a fabulous manicured hand is an essential no matter where you are off to! When it comes to lips, you want to ensure that your lips look soft and supple! This is achieved with Jane Iredale which has a Suggar and Butter dual lip care! I love the brown sugar which serves as an exfoliant to your lips. On days where you want a subtle pout, you can use the color that is on the other end of this tool. On days where I want a pop use LAQA & Co which has these Fat Lip Pencils that cover your entire lip - this hue is perfect alone or can be paired with Butter London's Lippy which are lip glosses that have a nail twin! By layering them together you have the mix of a matte versus gloss. On the days that you decide to be twinsies with yourself, Butter London has the nail polish to match with Lippy!
When it's time to talk nails, I love nail pads and suggest Essie as it will assist you in removing your polish. Apply a fun hue such as Black Night by Butter London and then ensure that your hands are super soft by using shea lotion from L'Occitane
Spaing from home is always an option whether you just went to a spa or you can't make it there! As I am always traveling to do segments whether it's on HSN or an appearance. I have a series of must haves that are on my list that always make me feel very comfortable and make my skin look great! I've been a long time user of Koh Gen Do and their Cleansing Spa Water (when also used with their organic cotton pads, not only take off my makeup but also allow my face to be cleansed. There are some areas in the country that I travel to where sometimes the water dries my face so this cleanser is perfect! Once clean, moisurize with L'Occitane's moisturizer which always leaves a silky smooth feeling, When it comes to doing a little extra action on your face, I suggest H2O's Plus Sea Results Overnight Peel - this is a must as I like being camera ready and knowing that my face is at its optimum - it's perfect for overnight results.
When it comes to keeping everything trim, I definitely love Bliss' Perfect Bikini which ensures that you are swimsuit season ready! L'Occitane has a phenom Organic Shea Butter that is perfect for your body. When you have your go to items, being ready for everything even in a beauty sense is a must.
As many of you know, I have received laser treatments for under my arms before and the experience was great. My biggest concern was that by having darker skin, you have to ensure that the lasers that are being used on you or for your skin so that you don't have discoloration! I learned that the Alexandrite laser is what you have to look for if you get laser treatments and have darker skin. Recently, I received the No! No! Hair and I fell in love with it. There are no lasers in this treatment as it uses thermal treatment. The longer you use it, over time it makes hair finer and disappear over time. Guys and girls can wear this and you can take it wherever you happen to be going! With a number of heads which allow you to take care of smaller areas (face and bikini line) as well as larger areas (legs) and the buffing items - you'll be that much closer to hairless, sexy skin. Of course when you start talking about glowing skin, I believe that it is all about having an amazing system! Hairless skin meet soft and luminous skin with additional items that are a mist to have!
Obviously, your skin needs to be dry when using this tool and don't be worried if you smell burning hair as this is something that is totally normal. If you're prepping your face, I have fallen in love with St Ives Apricot Scrub which is a gentle exfoliant that I have been taking on recent travels. These thin pads clean your face and also ensure that little rough areas are taken off of your skin. After loving Soap and Glory's Flake Away treatment that I shared with a few weeks ago to make your legs fab, I had to share with you their Butter Yourself Body Cream which is a great way to keep your skin refreshed and smooth! For the past 5 or 6 summers I have always shared how much I love Nars Cosmetics' Body Glow which I believe is perfect for all skin tones. I like that it gives me that warm tone as if I have been enjoying the sun (in a healthy way) and have that natural glow. L'Occitane has a fab lip balm in a Desert Rose fragrance which is perfect when we're transitioning into consistent summer warm weather. I also love a great scrub and Caudalie has a fab one that is infused with Cabernet (as all their products have wine varietals included) which is a great way to keep your skin looking amazing. Finally, I'm all about my Clarisonic Plus which allows you to use it for your face and body as there are two heads that come with this! Together, you're skin will be summer ready for sure.
What I love about eco products is that they have come a long way as I am all about the power of the vanity! This basically means that you want your home to be like a spa but at the same time, we need to be cognitive of our consumption to ensure that it is best for our planet and the way that we want everyone to enjoy where we live. To that end, Earth Day needs to be a focus everyday and not just because it is on April 22nd (this Sunday). For the rest of the week, I will share a few products within the rest of our spread to share with you a number of items that are appropriate for this ongoing initiative!
First, off The Body Shop has Earth Lovers shower products in a number of yummie scents! Loving that it is 100% biodegradable and recyclable as well as being paraben, sulphrate and color free. Moving on to L'Occitane, I love that you can keep your bottle and refill your Lavendar hand wash from this pouch! The bath sponge from Eco Tools is a great way to make sure that you're keeping it earth friendly with this sponge that is made from plastic 100%! When it comes to making the spa from home, I am a huge fan of Caudalie The spa in the bag is the perfect way to ensure that you feel relaxed while also keep it friendly as these products are also good for the earth. FInally round it off with Organix's Moroccan Argan Oil! Together, you're benefiting your body as well as the earth.
It's time to prep your skin and to boost up your beauty routine as well! This can be done by a few of my favorite products including Soap & Glory (Flake Away Body Polish), Dr Loretta (Youth Full Lip), Sibu Beauty (Exfoliating Scrub and Mask), Avon (ANEW Genics Eye) and L'Occitane (Cellulite Almond Lotion). Together these items will ensure that you're properly exfoliated and having smooth skin.
There is something that many of your celebs have in common when it comes to hitting the red carpet, they have great skin or the appearance of that sunkissed look! I believe that your beauty regimine is a total system and not just something that you do for a specific time period. When I'm traveling, doing segments and more, I utilize a number of items that ensures that I am always red carpet ready! From Burt's Bees, Gud is a complete skincare line. I have to say that my boyfriend is hooked on their Orange Petalooza Shampoo which has a fab smell that is perfect for clean hair! I'm obsessed with L'Occitane's Immortelle brightening system which includes their Hand Care which has SPF15 included, Brightening Essence which is mixed into the Moisturizing Cream which is perfect for the face. I have been taking two drops a day of IO Beauty's Beauty Booster which tastes like berries and can be taken straight or mixed in your favorite beverage. It's a quick way of nourishing your skin whether it's first thing in the morning, or later on in the day. Of course great skin is all about lotion and Jergens ensures that regardless of the season, you're protected. I too have jumed on the Beauty Balm wagon! I love that Dr Jart's BB cream can be mixed into my foundation that I apply onto my face when I am prepping it for my makeup routine or can be worn alone. I love the water base of this particular one as I feel that it spreads on evenly and makes my skin radiant. Finally, when you're running around, you can't allow a headache to keep you down. Migralex was introduced to me a few years ago and although it was explained to me that it helped those with chronic migraines, I have found that it is perfect for light headaches, stress headaches, hangovers, cramps or those annoying headaches I get when I have been flying for a number of hours. It's fast and effective which is perfect for keeping that well maintained look! Together, all of these items keep me going and are apart of my routine.
When you live with your significant other, you find out many things about him and one of the things that I found out about Paul was that he LOVES my beauty product - moreso the skincare obviously. I'm always getting items and can tell when he has begun to use them as well. I would have thought that he would have left many of my masks, exfoliants, moisturizers etc alone and gone for the items that are branded as a men's item; however, that couldn't be farther from the truth! In fact, if I use the product, he is more prone to want to use it as well. Above are a few items that have either arrived or on their way to reaching me that is bound to be a hit with myself as well as Paul!
I am a huge believer in a fresh face and one that looks as young as possible. I have been blessed with amazing genetics and look much younger then the age that I am super proud of being but I don't fall back on my genetic code solely, I help it along by amazing product. I am super intrigued by Glam Glow as any product that tingles while it works is always something nice for tired skin when I am in between meetings, tapings and so much more. I'm bound to love this as it has volcanic rock, french sea clay and green tea leaf pieces! This is a fun product to apply him to be sure. I have been a long time fan on L'Occitane and this Cocoa Shea Butter from their Limited Edition line definitely did not disappoint. I love that the coverage is not greasy but you definitely feel that you're skin is getting a decadent feel and being moisturized beyond typical lotions. He loves the scent which is always nice and yet another reason why he will attempt to try it as well.
I am obsessed with Caswell Massey from their soaps, cucumber slices etc so when RoseWater arrived the other week, I was beyond giddy. I am a huge believer in its healing properties and it feels so soothing as you can use it as a toner, refresher, etc! It leaves a nice light scent which is one that he can appreciate and you may be able to get him to try some from time to time!
When it comes to showering or bathtub time I have two favorites that I definitely want to try. Tokyo Milk's Nest Egg Bubble Bath seems like a fab product as we begin heading into the spring and want to rejuvenate our skin. I fell in love with this brand from the packaging as I loved the whole Apothecary meets Anthropologie vibe so this is a brand I definitely want to share more about from its various perfumes, candles, cosmetics, lotions, etc. Finally, Byredo Parfums has a line which has lotions, fragrances and shower gel under the title - Gypsy Water. I'm intrigued by the shower gel as I love changing it up every now and then. I love the image of this gypsy/boho woman that is the inspiration behind the scent and the fact that Bergamot an Juniper Berries are apart of this scent is even more alluring! It's yet another item that would be of interest to him to try when he hops in the shower.
The change in temperatures whether they are rising and dropping in NYC or my travel schedule makes temperatures change drastically, I know that I have to turn to way more preventative care to ensure that I can be everywhere I need to be. First off, your throat is everything, rock OTTE with this fab grey infinity scarf which adds depth, texture and warmth so that you don't have to be concerned about being exposed. I am obsessed with the fun pack that I received from Burt's Bees which came in time since yesterday I felt a bit of a chill coming on. I love the medicated lip balm which has eucalyptus in it, the honey throat drops and most importantly, the aloe and witch hazel hand sanitizer! These are perfect when you're in the office to ensure that you have what you need to fortify yourself! Increase your tea consumption by getting some of your fave blends by popping into places such as Sur La Table for Steven Smith Teamaker Lord Bergamot (obsessed with this tea without a doubt). I find that whether you're at home or in the office, you need to have a go to mug and I'm loving this one from MoMA. Sometimes I feel when I am fortifying to stay healthy, that I may smell slightly medicinal which isn't sexy - so definitely check out L'Occitane's Green Tea perfume which is refreshing but will make you therapeutic. Finally, head home or close your office door and enjoy Pommegranate Noir which is available at Jo Malone. Together you're staying healthy while looking fab and many of these items can still be used even when you're feeling at your most ultimate state.
When it comes to obsessing over a few items my closet does mini shifts but the above items are apart of my musts whether you're running to events, shoots, segments or just prepping for the upcoming holiday season! Since Fashion Week, some of these have been apart of my beauty arsenal and one item I just received yesterday but am definitely drooling over it in under 24 hours!
NP Set (available at Target) is a must in my world of lip gloss. After going to the presentation prior to New York Fashion Week and meeting Napoleon himself, I am convinced that he has a number of hues within the pinky spectrum to make you look amazing while leaving in so many enriching nutrients that you don't have to worry about stripping your lips! Yesterday as I ran out the door, my doorman let me know that a little bag was waiting for me and thankfully I paused as L'Occitane just sent me their lip balms. Now I have been a fan of their traditional hand creams for years and I think it makes awesome gifts whether it's a thank you or you're just being a proper house guest but starting Oct 12th, you can get their limited edition "In the Patterns and Scents of Africa" which has Bogolan packaging designs that are inspired by traditional fabrics of the villages. In addition to the lip balms (including 10% shea), there are shea butters in hand and body creams. The three scents are derived from 3 African flowers: Desert Rose from Morocco (fruity and zesty), Hibiscus from Egypt (sensual and sunny) and Cocoa Flower from the Ivory Coast (warm with that hint of cacao).
During NYFW, Kitten Lounge celebrated its 4th Anniversary at a party at Shobha and one of our generous sponsors was Birchbox which included their Sept box (items curated in conjunction with Scoop NYC. Within this curation, they included Bliss' Blood Orange and White Pepper Hand Cream which is perfect for fitting within your purse. Everyone knows that I am obsessed over blood orange and I love the thick nourishing feel of this cream while being in one of my favorite scents. Finally, Caswell-Massey has been a mainstay in my travels as I carry the packets of their Cucumber Eye Pads with me. But if you wish to stock up or have a little love on your vanity, they also have this fab jar, These are soothing as the real cucumbers without having to cut them into the thin sheets. Simply take them out and place them on your eyes and be transported to calm.
Notes from Paris is a series of posts from Valerie Nahmias, Beauty Editor of Femina Magazine in Paris as well as running Beauty Kid (love it). Brought together by our mutual friend and fashion photographer, Franco Lacosta, her posts are featured on beauty as it relates to a discerning demographic, kiddies! Last time, Valerie talked about L'Occitane and how this scent was perfect for kids and their parents! Today she continues with her Beauty Kid focus and shares some fab cosmetics and I'm loving the Wonder Woman collection from MAC.
Two skin care products and a small red jar provides their talent in the service of our beauty. This is not only reserved for wonder women and great moms, but also for all those who want to irradiate in a quick gesture.
I speak about two exceptional formulas, one, from Avène, full of fresh thermal water, is formulated for sensitive skin. It manually exfoliates dead cells without assaulting the skin. A bit of product, drop of water, a mini hand massage and it is done, the skin is purified! The next product, Carrefour, is the Beauty Kid favorite within skin care! A very interresting innovative concept. Its high tolerance formula contains organic honey, hydrolat of organic camomile and calms the skin but especially, it is sterilized UHT, (Ultra High Temperature)... same as milk!!! This is how it includes no preservatives. As a result, all the family can use it. This is the most natural proposition of Summer 2011. Say "ciao" to paraben and natural replacement preservatives and welcome UHT!!!
What about the lip colored Balm form MAC Cosmetics? This is the ally of mat complexions! I also apply it to the top of my cheekbones, at the level of the bone, by tapping the skin with the fingertip. Contrary to what you may think, its texture is more glowy than glossy. Although it may seem thick, it illuminates the skin like a baby's face.
My final word - forget about mascara! Let's take control over our beauty and be real, simple or nothing at all!
Valerie is the Beauty Editor of Paris' Femina Magazine and it's blog Redaction Beaute and has spent her years in the fashion/beauty industry. She was an assistant at French Elle Magazine for Carine Roitfeld (who recently left French Vogue as Editor in Chief) and wrote the book, Pour Etre Belle.
The past few weeks have been stressful. There have been a lot of events which have been enjoyable; however, it's taken a lot of work. If you happen to be in Brooklyn tomorrow, you'll see that I will be at the Warsaw in Brooklyn for Bust Magazine's Craftacular with one of the vendors and a very good friend of mine - Crystal Horton (cookie founder and baker extraordinaire) of Tasty Morsels Bakery. We will be knee deep in cookies, smiles and more! I can't wait to meet those that are fans of her work from the design house Chloe to S Factor and much more!
Of course both of us have been working hard in our respective worlds and we will have earned our much deserved trip to South Beach in June! When it comes to vacations, we all have our spots so I definitely want to present one of Sofitel's jewels! Located in Shanghai, the Sofitel opened the Sheshan Huaghe which is one of their gorgeous hotels! With Mediterranean architecture and located within the Sheshan National Tourism Resort, each room is one of three themes including Mediterranean, Chinese and Southeast Asian. If you're in this part of the world whether for business or pleasure you're bound to enjoy the private balconies, L'Occitane and Hermes ammenities and much more. If you need an additional incentive, check out the amazing images and the site to find out more about the gorgeous property.
We all need to look refreshed and whether you get your spa treatments at a salon or you opt to do it at home, we always need to have a few items at home where we can get a few things done! I'm a huge believer in turning your home into a retreat and the easiest way to achieve this is great products! From the lips to the body in general, I have you covered! I love the products above - personally, I'm super obsessed with Laura Geller's Lip Strip Cooling Sugar Scrub! I tend to use it about once a week and I love that it makes your lips smooth and also gives them a little zing as well!
Those who know me know that I'm never without body sprays, lotions, etc and my constant glow comes from the fact that I do like to exfoliate as much as possible! Sephora has an amazing line of scrubs that you should check out and my favorites are split between Nude Skincare and L'Occitane! Take some time to check these out and other brands to find how you can achieve amazing skin just in time for summer!
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As an Accessories Expert, Kimmie appears on HSN, designs, is quoted/featured in various publications talking about style from an Accessories Forward perspective! To work with Kimmie or to see project portfolio, visit her site here.
Kimmie is the Co-Founder/Creative Director of Shoe Week which launched during NYFW Sept '12 and is styling a number of shows as well as having evening leading up to our second season of shows during NYFW Sept '13.
Co-Founder, Kimmie, connects brands with bloggers in intimate event settings via Style Tweetup.
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