The beauty closet is having it’s annual september sale.
Take 25% off all items at thebeautycloset.com
Go ahead, try something new or stock up on your faves.

Offer expires 9/18

You can get your discount at the time of checkout.
Just enter the code in the box provided, and click on the redeem button.
The coupon code is: SEPT2010

www.thebeautycloset.com

Valid for US customers only.
Offer cannot be used on international orders. Not valid on Jewelry.

One of my favorite picks is Scott Barnes Body Bling. Make sure to grab a tube…or two!

I can feel  a huge shift occurring, not only in myself, but in the world. Last night’s award show was about honoring the creative people, who have worked tirelessly, passionately, and soulfully in the arts and entertainment field. George Clooney received the Bob Hope  Humanitarian Award for helping organize celebrities in the face of disaster, catastrophe, and hardship.  He reminded us that five years later, we forget the heartache and we go on to the next thing in the media — who is messing up and who’s wearing which designer.

I just  can’t imagine writing about fashion and beauty today.

I’m questioning my career of more than 25 years. I sit in front of my computer and I ponder, “What was I thinking when I was younger? What did I want to do?”  I head to my little stash of 30 + years of  journal writings. I put my hand into the broken cardboard box, the worn, but loved box that my  journals call home. I pulled out a small fabric covered  book. It’s navy with tiny white flowers dotted with red and yellow accents. I slipped on my reading glasses, gently open my private little memories to the first lined page and noticed the date.

August 30, 1980.

It was exactly 30 years ago today, that I made the first entry in this particular journal!

I made a mental note about the coincidence. And continue to look back through old journals, reading thoughts from days long ago. To my surprise,  I find a gem and a new perspective on my current situation.

The first thing I notice my handwriting. The bubbly font of young girl sharing her most intimate thoughts. I laughed to myself. Wasn’t it just yesterday that a friend said to me, “Can you read that?” My handwriting today is barely legible. I had been so  exhilarated when it came time to putting pen to paper. Oh, the feeling of the perfect pen gliding across the page! I had a passion for the art of writing.

When you sit down to read an old  journal, you have to read between the lines; between the entry dates. I was excited about the first entry, looking forward to my Senior year of high school, because it meant I’d be out of High School soon enough. A family wedding was the next day and I was looking forward to seeing all my cousins. I talked about the kind of wedding I wanted when I grew up and that there had to be a chocolate wedding cake, a special request of one of my favorite cousins. Family trips, events, getting ready for college. But, the theme of the entire journal was written by a teenager plagued with insecurity and doubt.

As I flipped through the pages, I thought, “Is this Bridget Jones’s Diary?” Unfortunately, my journal didn’t have the same jocular vibe the movie possessed. And, Hugh Grant was not playing the object of my many desires. Yet,  journal entries always began with a number; my current weight.  I was always on, or off a diet. Mostly off…and beating myself up over it. I was totally and completely boy crazy! ( Please insert Hugh Grant here.) I was uncertain of myself and my future.  Nothing new.  I wrote poetry. Who knew. I contemplated life and rode my bike everywhere. Really? No one who knows me today would believe this. I mention in one entry that I was receiving a gold award for my art, but didn’t want to go to the event, because I thought my work was “lousy” and I was too “fat.” How sad.

There was even a quote from Abraham Lincoln, “Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.”  Well, my mind was completely focused on my so- called relationships with boy friends and my outward appearance, that I didn’t have time to focus on what made me happy. At the end of this particular journal, one entry read, “I feel like I’ve become so self-centered. I’m bored with me! I love myself and I’m glad I’m me, but…there’s more to life than beauty. How do others survive? I know I’m not gorgeous. Beautiful – I don’t even know the true meaning of the word.”

I spent much of my time  focused on what, I perceived were my flaws. I continually thought about what others thought of me, how I looked. I believed that if I were thin enough, I would be noticed and recognized.

Last night when I was watching the Emmy’s the creator, Steve Levitan, one of the executive producers of Modern Family, said, “ I’d like to thank the Academy for recognizing us.” That’s it!  People just want a little recognition. It makes us feel validated. It makes us feel like we have a purpose, that what we are “doing” is important and it makes a difference.

They’ll go to great lengths to get ready for the Emmy’s. Day’s and weeks spent preparing their outfits, getting in shape, facials, nails, accessories. The pressure must be daunting! Here they are at an award show,  honoring them for their talents, the contribution they are making to the arts, and the media is focusing on… which designer they are wearing.

This morning, on the Today Show, they did a recap of who looked great and who missed the mark completely. I felt a tiny shot to my heart. How would it feel to have the whole world commenting on the outfit You (or your stylist) chose to wear to an important event?  Instead, of talking about your talent, or your contribution, but instead, focusing on  the style and the height of your shoes?

No wonder I was having a problem writing a blog post about the “hot color” of the moment!

Looking back at my journal made me realize that there is so much more to life. Sure, it’s fun to dress up for a big event. Yet there is a fine line between what is important and what is truly beautiful.  On that note, my pick for best dressed last night was Temple Grandin .

Now that’s one woman who embodies the true meaning of beautiful.

Shopping keeps getting easier. Why even bother wasting your time running to the store to pick up your must have items. Now, you can do it all from the palm of your hand. I’m always recommending Sephora to clients. They have so many cosmetic lines in one place. Beauty on-the-go is a great way to re-order items you know you need. Don’t let it stop you from dropping by the real brick and mortar store. There’s something to be said about touching and feeling new products. It makes for a complete sensory experience. Get the details on how you can set up your own mobile beauty bag.

common?

Yes. They’re all sporting long maxi dresses, but they are also on the more petite side of the vertical scale. You may have heard that you can’t wear a long dress if your under 5′4″. Not so. It’s all about proportion, scale of pattern and fit. Read more about maxi dresses on one of my favorite sites. WhoWhatWear.

watch the video now

MAC Makeup Master Gordon Espinet

I’ve been playing with make up since I was 12 years old. I’ve done it professionally for more than three decades, but I still love to watch other amazingly talented Makeup Masters at work. They make it seem so effortless, they share their favorite techniques and products and inspire us to experiment. It’s only makeup and it does wash off.

It seems that everyone I work with seems to be totally fascinated with eyelashes! Lash Junkies are plentiful. What is our fascination with eyelashes, real or faux? It makes us feel sexy, youthful, glamorous. But, we don’t always have the time or the desire to apply false eyelashes.  I still swear by three coats of  a real great mascara.  One coat just won’t do it.

I haven’t tried MAC’s new Haute & Naughty Mascara, but I love what Makeup Artist, Gordon Espinet does so effortlessly. Not only is this a great video to show you how quickly you can change from one look to another, you see just how easy it is to create that sought after cat’s eye liner effect.

The Magenta Madness and Sushi Flower Pink may be a little too edgy for some, but you can model this look with colors that you are already using, and update your look by just shifting the way you line your eyes. www.maccosmetics.com

Okay, not only is she beautiful, but the girl has style! Real style. And, a Stylist helping her step into her chic and sophisticated persona.  Kristen Bell, is the girl next door who grew up and became a movie star. One with classic movie star style. She shops vintage, looks for labels and clothing that express who she is and what she loves at her core.

Read more about this fascinating beauty and talented actress.

via Bell Epoque: Kristen Bell – Fashion and Design News and Trends – WWD.com.

Leave it for Later

Photo: Lesley Bohm. Makeup/Hair/Styling: Tamara Gold. Model: Kate Keegan-cook

Too Much Makeup
No one needs to wear foundation to the pool or beach and then watch it melt away. Here’s where my favorite, a tinted sunscreen comes in to play.

Run Away Mascara
Make sure to invest in a tube of waterproof mascara that will last all season, even if you’re not swimming…but just basking in the sun with friends.

Too Much in the Lash Department
Step away from your bottom lashes please. And, don’t return until late September. Mascara on the bottom, during the hot weather is not worth the mess.

Heavy Eyeliner
Skip this one until after Labor Day  as well.

Deep Dark Red or Black Nails
I love the drama, and I even have a hard time going a few shades lighter on my toes. I’m actually holding out on this one….until the day we publish the Summer Style Guide. We’ll have loads of time to wear the deep jewel tones over the Holidays. For now, keep it light, fresh and colorful. Try a clear crisp red instead. It’s time for a little fun!  And Your toes are a great place to start.

French Manicures
I’ve worn this look for years. What about you? Time for a change. I adore the clean look of a fresh coat of a simple nude or pink. Elegant. Absolutely, hip and stunning ( There’s nothing wrong with clean French Manicures…just thought you might want to try something new.)

Constant Complaining
It shows on your face. The Summer Months are here to be enjoyed. Take a break, a breath. Sit on a swing. Get a little sweaty. Dig in the garden. Run around the bases with your kids. You’ll never look more radiant, alive and beautiful.

Photo: Lesley Bohm, Makeup/Hair/Styling:Tamara Gold, Model: Kate Keegan-Cook

Simple Summer Tresses

Summer is a time for major hair frizz and faded color from too much fun in the sun and dips in the chlorine. Your hair doesn’t have to be the enemy and fight you every single day. (We love the idea of follicle harmony during times of humidity.) Yes, the two of you can happily co-exist with bounce, shine and luster even when it’s 99 degrees in the shade. How can you have chic, tamed tresses during the hot summer months?

TRY THESE HOT STYLE …
AND STYLIST SECRETS TO GET THEM!

INSTEAD OF FIGHTING YOUR HAIR WITH CONSTANT BLOWOUTS, OPT FOR A LOW CHIC BUN.

It’s a low maintenance way to combat your frizz and look pulled together. I love a loose, twisted bun put together with a few bobby pins. Look season-perfect by leaving it loose and a little off center. Wispy bangs should hang out and look like you just got out of that Mustang convertible even if you drive a Mom SUV with the windows up.

LAUREN CONRAD HAS THE RIGHT IDEA WHEN IT COMES TO CUTE BRAIDS

Do them low and link them with a ponytail. Remember that braids have no age limit and you won’t be carded for wearing them over the age of 12; wear them proudly under a cute baseball cap, too, with shorts, the right length for your body, and you’ve got the perfect outfit for running around town on the weekend.

THINK HAIR ACCESSORIES

For under $5, you can find bright, fun headbands at Target and other discount stores. “Forever 21 had all sorts of playful headbands and color hair ties. Color is key for this summer when it comes to hair accessories.” says Nelly Mollison,, a hairstylist and makeup artist atthe Argyle Salon & Spa in Hollywood.

INVEST IN A PROFESSIONAL BLOWOUT

If you do have a special occasion or event to attend this summer, then make sure to get that movie star hair that will turn heads! Schedule a blow dry when you really need to wear your hang long, natural and lovely. Tell your stylist to skip the gunky hair spray and please don’t load you down with product. This way you can take a flat iron the next day and run it over your locks to get them picture-perfect again. Also, invest in a silk pillowcase and sleep on it after a blowout. It will leave your tresses in perfect post-salon nirvana. Don’t be afraid to take out your favorite round brush and re-blow-dry the parts that may have a few wrinkles. Just don’t “wet” any part of your hair. And, be careful in the shower. Wear a shower cap.

WHAT ABOUT BOB?

Yes, you could get a nice bob job for the summer and save yourself all that blow-drying time.  There are several versions of this classic style, chose one that will suit your face shape and lifestyle. Just remember that you might want it longer again for fall and it only grows about half an inch a month. Don’t have cutter’s remorse.

Color Your Hair Beautiful

You’ll may want to lighten up in more ways than just your attitude this summer. It might time to investigate a little “sun kissed blonde” highlights in your life. These will give you a bright pop around your gorgeous face! Go almost Nordic. If your darker, go light brown to dark blonde. A few highlights aren’t a big change, but they will liven up your face and soften your entire look during the summer.

A few extra-credit tips:

Ask your stylist about Balayage Highlights – a French free hand hair painting technique.  I just had the most amazing Balayage experience with the Master,  Hair Color Specialist, Susie Morris. at the Argyle Salon & Spa.

Susie shared a few color options for the summer…

If you have dark brown hair then try chestnut whips- paint the highlights on the ends and halfway down for a soft, elegant look.
If you’re a redhead then you’ll want some vibrant punch for the summer. Try a pretty copper base color, which will be warm and shiny. Remember to wash less, so you don’t mute the color as time wears on.

AFRAID OF THE IDEA OF A COLOR CHANGE?

Give yourself a treat by going into the salon and asking for a nice glossy treatment, which should run about $30 to $50. It’s amazing at the end of a color treatment or on untreated hair as the final coat that add Hollywood shine and brilliance.

TERRI APANASEWICZ

SUMMER MAKEUP PICKS

photo: Lesley Bohm, Makeup/Hair/Styling: Tamara Gold,Model: Kate Keegan-Cook

LIPTINI LIP STAIN

Long-lasting color in 15 shades, some with shimmer, for all your summer moods. Apply a little for a natural wash of color or use lots of layers for a more dramatic look. Liptini stains don’t come off so your lips remain true to color even while sipping poolside cocktails. Available at www.beautybridge.com

AMAZING CONCEALER
This is a must-have all year round, but it’s especially great in the summer because it is waterproof. A little goes a long way and blends evenly into your skin, erasing imperfections. Amazing Concealer comes in seven shades; use just one or mix a couple to perfectly match your skin tone. www.amazingcosmetics.com

RCK BODY GLOW BODY BRONZER
Available in three colors light, medium, and dark to add a beautiful glow to legs, arms, and décolletage. It’s easy to apply and does not rub off on clothing. Body Glow is fragrance free and contains vitamins A, C, and K for luxurious moisturizing. www.redcarpetkolour.com

L’OREAL VOLUMINIOUS WATERPROOF MASCARA
I don’t usually recommend waterproof mascara, but because this is summer and there’s always a chance of falling into the pool, L’Oréal’s Voluminous Waterproof Mascara in Carbon Black is my choice. Available at your local drugstore.

CLARISONIC PLUS
Summer means less makeup and less clothing, so it’s a good time to kick up skin care a notch. The Clarisonic Plus gently cleanses and exfoliates,  giving you softer, more supple skin.  And the Plus comes with a body brush, which is great prep before applying self tanner. www.clarisonic.com