Oct 10, 2008

This week, we’re giving away five copies of Get Positively Beautiful: The Ultimate Guide to Looking and Feeling Gorgeous, the new book by celebrity makeup artist and What Not To Wear regular Carmindy. To make sure you know how helpful this book really is, she went ahead and wrote you all five very solid beauty tips.

After you read these, tell us the most indispensable beauty advice you ever got below, and we’ll enter you for a chance to win the book.

Here are Carmindy’s tips for SheFinds readers:

1. When it comes to playing up the eyes, opposites attract. Choose eyeliner shades that are opposite to your eye color to really make your eyes stand out. If you have blue eyes, go for chocolate brown; for brown eyes, choose sapphire blue; green eyes look amazing with plum liner; and hazel eyes come alive with forest green.

2. When using a bronzer don't apply it all over your face, instead strategically place it on the temples and along the hairline, sweeping under the cheekbone. This will give you a sun-kissed natural looking contour. Try Sally Hansen Natural Beauty inspired by Carmindy Sun Glow Powder Bronzer.

3. Never use makeup to change or correct your wrongly perceived flaws. These differences make you unique so find your best feature and use makeup to enhance your natural beauty. If lips are your feature focus try a strong red lip. If eyes are your best feature go for a smoky eye and if skin is your best feature play it up with a highlight glow. If your cheeks are incredible, play with a bright cream blush.

4. To enhance your lip shape dab a little highlighter on the cupid's bow of the upper lip and a dab on the bottom of the lower lip for a fabulous pout.

5. When applying false lashes snip a pair in half and use only the smaller section at the outer corners of your eyes for a natural flirty fringe.

Leave a comment about the most useful beauty tip you ever received for a chance to win!

Can’t wait to win? Buy the book now at Amazon.

And remember to stop by MomFinds to enter for a chance to win a Halloween costume from Aeromax Toys (how adorable is this mailman costume?).

 
1. Post in the comments section about the best beauty tip you ever received.

2. You must supply us with a valid email address and sign up for the SheFinds newsletter.

3. The contest starts now and entries must be date stamped by our server no later than Friday, October 17th, 2008 at 11:59 AM Eastern Time to be eligible.

4. One winner will be selected during a random drawing and will be announced in the October 21st SheFinds newsletter. The winner must reply via email as instructed in the newsletter to claim the prize.

5. No prize substitutions.

6. You must be 18 years old or older to enter and a resident of the USA.

7. No purchase necessary.

8. Void where prohibited.

9. Click here for the full rules.

Deal Of The Day: Up To 40% Off Cole Haan Shoes At Saks

Oct 10, 2008

Cole Haan’s clean, classic styles are always an easy way to finish an outfit.

These open-toe Mary Janes ($192, were $275) have the notoriously comfortable Nike Air cushioning inside.

Patent wedges ($227, were $325) are a nice accent to a shorter dress or skirt worn with tights.

A classic pair of tall boots ($375, were $625) goes glamorous with patent accents.

More sales and deals on the web:

As seen in the SheFinds forum: Receive 20% off at Lillian Skincare with coupon code she finds.

Buy Marc by Marc Jacobs shoes and apparel at sample sale prices starting today at Rue La La.

At SwimsuitsForAll, get an extra $5 off already marked down swimwear with code UPTO50OFF.

Receive a free energizing cream with any purchase from Biotherm with coupopn code BIONRG.

Anya Hindmarch For Target Bags Available Today…On Target’s Site!

Oct 10, 2008

Even though the Anya Hindmarch bags aren't supposed to hit Target stores until this weekend, they are now available for sale on the store's website. Which is fantastic news, since they sold out in about half a minute after premiering on Anya Hindmarch’s website Wednesday. 

Seriously, buy them now. These bags are awesome.

A few weeks ago, I braved the crowds at Target’s Bullseye Bodega in midtown Manhattan to check out the goods. There was such a craze at the Anya Hindmarch display that I couldn’t even get a good look at every design before the shelves were empty.

The bags I examined – this rectangular satchel and a cream clutch – were solid. The gold-black-maroon color combo on the satchel ($45) is unusual in a rich-looking sort of way. The cream clutch ($20), like those neutral shoes we raved about all fall, will match just about anything beautifully.

Our insanely lucky/talented Managing Editor Bryn found a lone AH shoulder bag ($50) at a New Jersey Target a week and a half ago, and it’s already a favorite for work. She says it's her "poor man's Fendi spy." 

We're predicting a slight craze over these bags, so orders yours today at target.com. 

Recession Beauty: Excellent Eyeliners For $10 Or Less

Oct 10, 2008

Next up in our Recession Beaty series are eyeliners that work well, look amazing, but don't cost a fortune. Line your lids without breaking the bank with one of these liners, all $10 or less.

For everyone: Jillian Dempsey for AVON Professional Kohl Eye Liner ($4) glides on and delivers a smooth line that lasts. The built-in smudger helps blend for a smokey look, without lifting too much color. A staple in your beauty arsenal.

For liquid lovers: Lots of inexpensive liquid eyeliners were runny, dribbling into my eye (ouch!) before the line set. Mattese N.Y.C. Eye Drama Liquid Eyeliner ($7) is neither watery nor clumpy, and has an easy-to-wield wand for an even, dramatic line.

For evening: Victoria's Secret Limited Edition Metallic Eyeliner ($10) in bronze or hot chrome, adds a metallic sheen that's perfect for evening, while still suitable for daytime use. They're soft and creamy, too, so you don't have to gouge your lid with a rock-hard pencil to get a thick line.

 

What To Wear With: A Sweater Dress

Oct 10, 2008

We recently showcased our top five favorite sweater dresses and since then have been asked by many readers just how exactly to wear one. Other than with a solid pair of Spanx (or those ingenious Tight-End tights - or both), there are some simple ways to complement this cozy frock that will bring you easily from the office to after 5 cocktails.  

Since a sweater dress is classic, you can play around with shoes and accessories - but don't go overboard if you plan to wear to the office. A pair of two-tone Mary Janes and one strong colorful cuff will up the ante on a neutral colored dress. You can add a delicate silver necklace for some sparkle at the neckline. Before heading out for drinks, throw on a winter white mid-length jacket to brighten the look, and toss your evening essentials into a daring compact clutch.  

Donna Karan Cream Jacket, $1397.50 (Find a more budget-friendly option at Banana Republic)

J.Crew Mary Janes, $160

Jade Oval Cabochon Bracelet, $375

Zebra Clutch, $7.50


Dior Oui Necklace, $1125

You can also view this set right on Polyvore.com where we welcome all of our readers to join the SheFinds Group and create your own sets, letting us know how you'd wear a cozy sweater dress for fall. 

News Updates: Sarah Palin Loses The Moose Vote, A More Beautiful You Just A Click Away, And More…

Oct 10, 2008

1. Sarah Palin was spotted recently carrying a 'Real Women Hunt Moose' Tote. We wonder if this will become as popular as her Kawasaki glasses and Naughty Monkey shoes. [NYMag]

2. Israeli computer scientists have developed a beautification engine which can virtually adjust your features to come up with a more attractive you. We suggest using products from our Plastic Surgery at Home Guide to enhance your already fabulous self. [NYTimes]

3. Rich & Skinny Jeans (a celeb favorite) opened their online store, which features virtual models posing in different styles. You can still find R & S on Bluefly if the cybergirls freak you out. [Denimology]

4. Purchase the limited edition Pink NuFace, an at-home cosmetic device that lifts and tones your skin, and a portion of the proceeds will go to breast cancer research. [mynuface]

Runway Recap: A Boring Bride Moves On To Bryant Park

Oct 09, 2008

Here's the latest from SheFinds reader Casey:

Last night's Runway was a bittersweet one.  We lost one designer but we got a sneak peek at the final collections.  First, though, we had the obligatory Tim Gunn home visits, which feel kind of like "The Bachelor" home visits without the family dinner and gratuitous making out.
 
Back in New York, Tim tells the designers that their face-off challenge will be to create a bridesmaid dress to go with the wedding gowns they've made for their collections.  We're interested to see how they interpret this, as most brides' interpretation is dreadful.  Will they go chic or will they go bridesmaid-y?

 
Jerell's bride looks like she's wrapped in one of those old fashioned rolls of copier paper, all crinkly, with a bunch of orchids on her head.  Michael Kors calls it garish (kiss of death 1) and "overwrought times 20,000." 

 
 
Kenley's bride is feathery awesomeness, though Michael Kors mentions that it's reminiscent of a McQueen.  Kenley, in Kenley fashion, has a snotty retort.  When will this girl ever learn?  She's only here by the skin of her teeth thanks to that attitude!   Heidi calls her work "crazy good."  I must admit I like Kenley's work, though I think she needs to be punched sometimes.
 
 
While we do question Leanne's panti-liner winged bodice, her bridesmaid dress is actually beautiful... and her wedding gown has pockets!  Perfect for... well perfect for something a bride might need to have handy.
 
 
Korto's interchangeable bride and bridesmaid are kind of ridiculous with a lot going on, not to mention that the wedding gown is wholly unflattering -- seriously would someone get married in this?   
 
Leanne and Kenley move on to Bryant Park -- that Kenley is a lucky lucky girl, we hope she appreciates that fact.
 
The final decision comes down to which kiss of death is worse: garish or boring?  I vote for garish but others vote for boring.  Garish wins (or loses) and the debate is settled and Jerell is sent home.  Onto Bryant Park!!

Catch up on our other Runway Recaps.

The Look Of Lipstick Jungle: Wendy’s Take-Charge Professional Style

Oct 09, 2008

 

Ok, so she got fired at the end of the episode. But Wendy (Brooke Shields) looked damn professional when it happened. We think Wendy’s wardrobe sets the standard for polished, modern, high-powered office wear – a wearable, realistic breath of fresh air from the days when Carrie Bradshaw trotted around Manhattan in hot pants and halters. Below, get the look of one of her spot-on outfits from last night’s episode.

A silk blouse with just the right amount of detail plus a tailored pencil skirt is always a winning work combo. Here Wendy wears Fendi’s bow-front blouse ($840) and a simple black skirt like this wool pencil skirt ($88)

To add a bit of flare (and stay true to LJ’s obsession with statement necklaces), Wendy accessorizes with a big round pendant. For a similar stone-laden look, try this opulent Jeweled Medallion Necklace ($750). Or wear this Dream Catcher Pendant ($7) for a lighter look that’s about a hundred times lighter on your wallet (no, seriously, it’s a hundred times cheaper).

You can also see this post at SeenON’s blog, and don’t forget to check out their Lipstick Jungle page to see more styles you can buy from the show.

Week Of Hair Help: Styling That Short Hair

Oct 09, 2008

I don't have a Poxie, and actually my hair has been getting longer these days (either the recession or laziness has caused me to cut back on trims), but I still wear my hair in a kind of bob. Which means I continue to search for styling products that will give me body, texture, and that piece-y look. Finally, three have arrived - in varying degrees of intensity. 

 

Pantene Pro-V Texturize! Spray Wax ($6) is the strongest and probably my favorite. It sprays out in liquid form, but styles like a wax once on your hair. It gives my hair the most lift, separation, and hold.

For a medium hold, Blow's Mane Tame ($20) is the way to go. Because it's a lighter pomade, you can use more of it. My hair was soft, but not limp.

Malin + Goetz Sage Styling Cream ($20) wins for best scent. However, I would suggest using this cream on damp hair to de-tangle, and then add some post-blow dry. It's really light and won't produce strong texture. However, your locks will smell incredible.

SheFinds Ahead Of The Times? Yes, When It Comes To Home Spa Trends

Oct 09, 2008

Today’s New York Times featured an article about how the current economic crunch has given rise to home spa remedies.  You know, kind of like the one we did yesterday.

We hate to say we got there first but, you know, we kinda did.  We even took to Better.tv to spread the love about how to get plastic surgery effects at home, highlighting solutions to treatments like chemical peels in the comfort of your own home without feeling the pinch of a needle or in the pocketbook, including products like Kiehl's Over-Night Biological Peel ($42).

Want to know how to get more at-home treatments for less money?  Sign up for next week’s Teeth Whitening Guide. You might have to spend a little money to get your driver’s license pic redone - the solutions are that good.

Good Stuff From Cheesy Stores: LBDs At Caché

Oct 09, 2008

I went into Caché to check out their clutches. They appeared decent-looking on the site, and I was hopeful they'd be the feature of this post. Unfortunately, I found the store's limited supply to be cheaply constructed and over bedazzled. So, determined to find something worth mentioning, I fell upon LBDs. This may seem like an easy resort, however, let me point out that in Caché, everything is accented with fur, sequins, or animal print - or all three. So the fact that the majority of their black dresses remained unscathed was refreshingly surprising. Below are my top picks:

This 3/4 sleeve dress ($168) is a solid office staple. It comes with the belt, but I would suggest switching that out for one of your own.



Made from a thick rayon/spandex blend, this sleeveless dress ($158) has substantial weight to it, and is flattering to the body.

The pleat detailing in this off-the-shoulder LBD ($168) makes it appropriate for more formal affairs. The fact that it's made from jersey and not satin keeps it from looking cheap.

Taste Test: Which Satin Dress Is A Wiser Buy?

Oct 09, 2008

 
One of these so-chic brown satin dresses (okay, one is technically military green) is worth more than its weight in gold—about $1,400 on sale!. The other, also a designer piece, costs about half that. Click on the frock you think is the more affordable find to test your splurge vs. steal savvy, then click on over to our Taste Test archives to earn your gold star in deal-spotting.

Only 1 Day Left To Win Lucky’s Guide To Mastering Any Style

Oct 09, 2008

You only have one more day to win Lucky's sartorially insightful new book, The Lucky Guide to Mastering Any Style: How to Wear Iconic Looks And make Them Your Own. If you've ever questioned whether you are posh eclectic, American classic, or rock & roll, this book is for you. To enter this week's Freebie Friday, click here and tell us what you think your personal style should be called in the comments section before noon tomorrow. 5 lucky (no pun intended) winners will take home the book!

Deal Of The Day: Up To 60% Off Layering Tanks At C&C California

Oct 09, 2008

If your fall wardrobe includes lots of cardigans and wrap sweaters, consider investing in some of these easy cotton jersey tanks to wear underneath. Click on the items to see all the color options.

The Organic Classic Tank ($19, was $46) is a well-made staple, plain and simple.

With a floatier, less-fitted shape, the Ava Tank ($24, was $48) would pair well with slim pants.

This striped tank ($24, was $48) would add some interest under a cardigan or peeking out as a long base layer.

More sales and deals on the web:

As seen in the SheFinds forum: Get 20% off cool crocheted purses, scarves and more at Jaybird Designs with code Special20.

Save an extra 10% sitewide on Bluefly today.

25% off create-your-own polos at Ralph Lauren.

Latest Blog Posts From MomFinds

Oct 09, 2008