SICKA THAN AVERAGE

Around the Blog World: The HLMN Weekend Round Up

Adventures in Round Brown takes a look into the world of Men's Big and Tall Fashion.

Askmewhats reviews L'oreal Elseve Smooth Intense.

The Beauty Chick share some of her favorite face primers.

Beauty Junkies Unite tells us how awesome Bare Escentuals Buxom Lashliner.

 

BeautySweetSpot has a behind the scenes look at the MAC Fall collection.

Best Things in Beauty has a Giveaway Contest: Sephora's new Illamasqua Powder Blusher in Kiss.

Claire's Beauty explores lipstick trends through the decades.

Denim Debutante is giving away a bottle of Arbonne's Made in the Shade Self-Tanner to one lucky reader!

Fabuless Beauty has us super excited for the MAC Look in a Box sets available exclusively at Nordstrom.

See Fabulous Over Forty's review of Josie Maran lipstick.

The Fashion Planner shows us how to how to make a no-sew top and necklace from a t-shirt.

 

Glamour Whore introduces you to Illamasqua cosmetics.

Gloss Menagerie homemade toner experiment.

Gouldylox Reviews has a sneak peek of Bare Escentuals liner and lipstick.

Hot Beauty Health gives you the low down on the white nail polish trend.

The Informed Makeup Maven is all about body and hair this week.  Check out her must haves.

Krasey Beauty cozies up to Erno Laszlo Cosmetics.

Visit Lipgloss Break and Enter to Win Sunkissed Glow by JLo and AminoGenesis Perfect Reflection!

My Beauty Bunny recommends a cruelty-free self-tanner and body firming cream in one from Tarte.

Obsession Confessions of Glamour and Love reviews Ouidad products for curly hair.

Sicka Than Average keeps you walking on sunshine with its roundup of sizzling hot shades.

The Style and Beauty Doctor begs you not to match your eyeshadow to your outfit.

Su Ferreira has another great tutorial on smokey eye.

ThisThatBeauty shares a beauty observations - Extreme Length False Eye Lashes in everyday life!

Tres Chic Style reveals her shopping secrets.

Longer Days, Younger Skin: Aloette Summer Defense Kit

Since sun exposure is one of the leading causes of premature aging, it's only logical that skincare companies would develop products that combine anti-aging technologies (from nourishing antioxidants to amino acids and peptides that stimulate collagen production and repair damaged cells) with proper UV protection. Aloette has definitely taken these factors into account with its offerings, which help to tighten and hydrate skin, while also protecting it from sun exposure. Pictured above are three of Aloette's leading products to get you through the summer: the Dual Action Bio C Vitamin C powder, the Multi-Active Prevention Plus Day Treatment and the Cellular Day Defense Firming Complex with SPF 15.

The Multi-Active Prevention Plus Day Treatment is a lightweight serum that protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays, as well as from free radical damage (through the inclusion of Vitamin E), and which nourishes the skin with antioxidant-rich ingredients like green tea and pomegranate extract. Collagen production is induced thanks to Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, helping to smooth out any existing lines and wrinkles. But the most interesting aspect of this product is that it relies on Micrococcus Lysate (a restorative enzyme) andLecithin (a fatty tissue found in plant and animal cell membranes) to repair past DNA damage at the cellular level, hence rewinding the clock a bit.

I've heard people say that wrinkles are a natural phenomenon, a map of one's varied life experiences, a sign of the wisdom accrued through the years. I smile when I hear these beautiful, romanticized observations about aging and wrinkling. But, at the same time, I can't help but wonder if we developed these explanations because we wanted to rationalize something we couldn't change, because we were powerless to remove wrinkles and hence had to find a way to make their emergence all the more bearable. I suppose these two sides of my psyche are the idealist and the cynic in me duking it out. And, while the sight of elderly folks is beautiful to me, I'd be a hypocrite if I didn't admit that, when it comes to my own self, I have difficulty accepting my growing older (and, much less, the evidence of said phenomenon). So for me, a little Benjamin Button action comes as a welcome relief.

But back to Aloette's time capsule-esque technologies. For added protection from environmental stress factors (and to stabilize collagen production), you can mix the Dual Action Bio C Vitamin C powder with the serum. You can literally pump a dab of serum to the palm of your hands, shake a few of the nano-sized vitamin C particles into it, then rub your hands together to create an even mixture, and smooth onto your face.

At first, I was a little confounded by the whole experience. I found it difficult to shake the vitamin C powder out of its compact pot and, when a few particles did manage to come loose, it didn't seem like quite enough (then again, the instructions merely suggest you shake "a small amount" onto your hands, which is hardly a specific quantification). But I did notice that when I applied the serum onto my face, it almost instantly looked more radiant. The "youthful glow" which so many products claim to deliver is actually attainable with this mixture.

To finish the daily regimen, you should add the Cellular Day Defense Firming Complex with SPF 15, which includes grape, honey and meadow sweet extracts to exfoliate and hydrate the skin, antioxidant-rich pomegranate, grape seed and green tea extracts to nourish it, and vitamins C and E to protect you from the sun's harmful rays. Though slightly sticky, the day cream does provide ample protection from the sun and it smells like citrus, energizing your skin and your spirits for the full day ahead of you.

Aloette Dual Action Bio C Vitamin C powder, $39.95; Aloette Multi-Active Prevention Plus, $49.95; Aloette Cellular Day Defense SPF 15, $59.95. Visit Aloette.com

From Perky to Dashing: New L'Oreal Paris HIP High Intensity Pigments Matte Shadow Duo Colors

You know that "one is the loneliest number" adage? Well, for me that romanticism even extends to the realm of cosmetics — as much as I may love a particular eye shadow hue, I tend to gravitate to eye shadow duos (or palettes, for that matter) as opposed to single shadow pots. Maybe I just like pairs, the idea of two independent entities coming together in a cohesive manner. Needless to say, every time I hit a drugstore, I'm magnetized by the eye shadow duo options in the makeup aisle. And, since launching its HIP High Intensity Pigments line, L'Oréal Paris has made a loyal customer out of me.

For summer, L'Oréal Paris launched five new HIP High Intensity Pigments Matte Shadow Duo color combinations: Animated (a royal blue matched with a pearly white), Perky (a key lime green shade matched with a charcoal gray), Striking (a sunflower yellow matched with a black hue), Dashing (a dusty pink with a velvety black), and Poppy (a peachy beige hue paired with a darker brown shade).

Pictured below are four of the new shades (as well as some swatches of each) for you ladies to check out. As you'll see from the photos, the shades look way more subtle when applied onto the skin but, of course, you can always add more layers to make the color as rich as you desire.

The shadows are powdery soft, so they're easy to apply and to blend together. They're easily removed with just a tad of water — which is good new in that the makeup removal process isn't quite as laborious, but it also means you might want to avoid wearing these when there's a chance of rain (or you might just end up with some crazy streaking action).

Each round compact includes a bottom compartment with a hidden sponge-like wand applicator. I will warn you, however, that the compacts can be impossible to open — I found myself pressing at the indentation, then tugging and yanking away, only to wind up opening the wrong part (the bottom as opposed to the top, for example). But once you master the art of opening these tricky compacts, you'll be pleased with what lies within.

 

L'Oréal Paris HIP High Intensity Pigments Matte Shadow Duo in "Perky," $8. Available at chain drugstores and mass market retailers.

 

L'Oréal Paris HIP High Intensity Pigments Matte Shadow Duo in "Animated," $8. Available at chain drugstores and mass market retailers.

L'Oréal Paris HIP High Intensity Pigments Matte Shadow Duo in "Dashing," $8. Available at chain drugstores and mass market retailers.

L'Oréal Paris HIP High Intensity Pigments Matte Shadow Duo in "Striking," $8. Available at chain drugstores and mass market retailers.

Agua Viva: Koh Gen Do's Cleansing Spa Water

You might remember how, a few months ago, I celebrated the genius of Koh Gen Do's Maifanshi Moisture Foundation. Well, now, I have even more props to offer the Japanese cosmetics and skincare line, thanks to its incredibly gentle and effective Cleansing Spa Water.

The alcohol-free formula contains natural herbs and Izumo spa water to remove makeup, as well as any dirt and impurities. When you pour some of the Cleansing Spa Water onto a cotton pad and sweep it over your face, you'll be amazed by how much it can remove in a single motion. And, unlike most makeup removers, it doesn't feel harsh against your skin —nor does it smell like alcohol or any form of astringent. It literally feels as gentle and soothing as only fine, mineral-rich water can feel, so it's highly unlikely that you'll experience any burning or discomfort as you remove your makeup (which, as we all know, can't be said about most makeup removers).

I will forewarn you, however, that you will need a sizable amount to remove more persistent makeup. It literally took four attempts before I managed to completely vanish any trace of my Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Eye Pencil from my eyelids.

But, still, it never felt like I was scrubbing away at my eyes, nor did I have to worry about irritating the delicate skin around that area. Once my makeup was removed, my skin looked as refreshed as when I had awoken earlier that morning.

Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water (450 ml), $46. Visit KohGenDoCosmetics.com

City Slicker: Jimenez NYC Belt Bags

 

A couple of weeks ago, I was walking around New York City's Union Square area, when I came across a Sheila Jimenez's handmade leather belts, which she was selling at her booth in front of the area's Whole Foods Market. Available in various colors and sizes, the belts all shared one unifying element: they all featured a rectangular storage pouch, cleverly incorporated into their individual designs. Now, I know what you're probably thinking. Are these fanny packs? Well, in a way, they are — after all, they're worn around the waist or the hips, and they do allow you to store your keys, cash, and essentials. But, unlike fanny packs, which tend to be bulky and unseemly, these belts manage to be functional without ever losing their charm. Instead of looking like a dowdy tourist, these belts will make transform you into an urban cowgirl.

Pictured above is one of the belts over which I swooned. As you can see, it features a black and crimson red color combination, with the main attraction being the rectangular compartment which, in turn, is covered by a triangular flap featuring hand-stitched crimson red shapes. The one-of-a-kind belts are meant to be tied around your hips or waist, so you can really modify the look depending on what you're wearing (without worrying about buckles or metal closures). And even though they boast different embellishments (from beaded motifs to pearl details and hand-painted designs), none of them feel too precious or delicate. Instead, the leather is cut and sewn in a way that celebrates the material rugged nature, with deliberately jagged ends. "I use nice leather, but I don't finish all of the ends —this gives the belts a raw feel," says designer Sheila Jimenez. "I don't want to lose the essence of the material."

Jimenez, who was born in Mexico and lived in Texas, Florida and Michigan before venturing to New York almost four years ago, says she made her first belt six months after arriving in the city. Shortly thereafter, she started selling her creations in the street and discovered that people gravitated to them, particularly due to their functional nature (which is so essential in urban life).

More than 3,000 belts later, she continues to sell her belt bags on 14th Street, but she has also managed to get her designs into such boutiques as: Tuni's in Orlando, Florida; Devines in Greenport, New York; Vicki's Wash & Wear Hair Cuts in Ann Arbor, Michigan; the French Quarter Exchange in Lake Mary, Florida; Wet Boutique in San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Vivace in Highlands, North Carolina.

Ranging from $20-$40, the belts will soon be available at Jimenez NYC.com and, of course, you can also inquire about custom designs through the site.

The Art of Style: Laura Su's Fashion Illustration Prints

Laura Su, creator and designer of the botanical-inspired jewelry line Prismera Design has launched a new series of whimsical fashion illustration prints of her own original watercolor paintings. Each illustration features a different female character dressed in a beautiful frock. And, if you're a fashion lover yourself, just imagine how much pizazz these would add to your living room, bedroom or your foyer. I personally picture hanging the four prints pictures above on a sky blue-colored wall in my foyer area so that, as soon as visitors come in, they're greeted by these stylish nymphs.

Five designs are currently available (four of which are pictured above) in both 5 "x 7" and 11" x 14" sizes, all printed on 100% cotton rag paper and completed using Epson Ultrachrome archival inks.

The "Alizarin Crimson" print, pictured at top, features a raven-haired beauty in a sleeveless, floor-length gown with a bulbous skirt (which I imagine being made with layers of tulle or chiffon) in a vibrant red hue. To me, this girl is the belle of the ball and yet she's not too sure of her own beauty, appearing a bit shy and reserved. There's a vunerability to this character that fascinates me, making it my favorite in the series, but all the characters are breathtaking.

The brunette in the "French Ultramarine" print (pictured second from top) seems assured and even a bit naughty, with her hair in a chic updo and her shoulders exposed sensually, as she sits coquettishly in her strapless party frock. The "Winsor Yellow II" print, meanwhile, takes us on a journey to a more adult event, where the most gorgeous woman in the room is this gal, with her asymmetrical bob and her ultra chic, minimalist yellow tunic, which reminds me of a vintage Halston gown. Next, there's the "Cerulean Blue" print, which features a curly-haired redhead in a light blue frock that moves and flows like ocean waves. I've taken to nicknaming her Ariel, like the main character in Disney's The Little Mermaid. Sure, Ariel wore nothing but her mermaid's tail and some seashells to cover her bosom, but there's a bright-eyed innocence to the character in this painting that, combined with the aquatic theme, makes me think of fairy tales.

Looking at these prints, we embark on a fascinating journey of color and we dip into some fashion history, allowing us to imagine a different storyline for each of the characters Su has created. Who wouldn't want these fashionable ladies to join her entourage?

Laura Su Fashion Illustration Prints, $20 for 5" x 7" print and $46 for 11" x 14" print. Frames not included. Available at PrismeraDesign.com

Sunshine Valley: Shades That Really Sizzle

Still looking for some funky shades to protect your peepers from the summer's rays (and add a little funk) to your summer wardrobe? We've got you (and your eyes) covered — whether you're going for an '80s-inspired look with neon hues, bright zebra-print patterns and heart-shaped frames, or you prefer a more sophisticated, ladylike look with gold metal frames and lenses decorated with dainty floral motifs. Ranging from $5 to $600, here are some shades that will make your summer days so much brighter.

Anon Optics "Dallas" sunglasses, $90. Visit AnonOptics.com

Shades of Couture by Juicy Couture "Heritage" Aviator Sunglasses in Light Gold, $64.90. Visit Nordstrom.com

Forever 21 "Wild Hearts" sunglasses, $5.80. Visit Forever21.com

 

Sahara by Sama Eyewear "Beset" frames, $685. Available at Destination Sama in Beverly Hills (9530 Brighton Way). Visit SamaEyewear.net

GirlProps "Channeling Chanel" lace lenses in gold, $9.99. Visit GirlProps.com

Curations with Stefani Greenfield Celebrity Sunglasses in Pink and Purple, $49.90 each. Available at HSN.com

Claw Money "The Gazelles" in Grass Green, $175. Visit Karmaloop.com

 

Fred Flare "Navajo" sunglasses, $11. Visit FredFlare.com

Badgley Mischka Active Eyewear "Garbo" sunglasses in gold, $420. Available at Destination Sama in Beverly Hills (9530 Brighton Way). Visit SamaEyewear.net

TOUS Retro Sunglasses in pink and blue, $181 each. Visit Tous.com

Art Attack: Cole Haan's New Whitney Collection

Getrude Vanderbilt Whitney, founder of New York City's prestigious Whitney Museum of Art, favored the works of 20th Century realist artists like George Luks and early modernists like Polish-American painter Max Weber — but now, thanks to Cole Haan, the words "Whitney" and "collection" are being used to describe a different type of art: that of accessorizing.

Cole Haan's new "Whitney" collection, pictured second from top, consists of various handbag silhouettes, all boasting bold gold grommet details. There's a oversize hobo bag (pictured at top), a belted tote (my personal favorite), a frame purse, and more. The distressed leather bags are available in a brown chestnut hue or a lacquer red.

Like all Cole Haan collections these are made of premium leather and boast excellent workmanship but, unlike prior offerings, the Whitney collection has an in-your-face flair (hey, there's nothing like some large grommets to add a rock 'n' roll flavor) — all the while maintaining its sophistication.

Cole Haan "Whitney" collection (clockwise from top, as pictured in second photo): Zip Hobo, $348; Large Frame Purse, $148; Belted Tote, $428; Small Satchel, $378; and E/W Flap Bag, $298. Available at ColeHaan.com

Face Forward With Givenchy's Mist Me Gently

Think about how much water you drink when the temperature rises and you find yourself treading through the thick summer haze. If you're like most on-the-run women, you probably have a gigantic water bottle tucked in your summer tote. Now, why shouldn't your skin get a hydrating pick-me-up as well? Givenchy's Mist Me Gently allows you to do precisely that – you can slip it into your purse and spray it on whenever you feel those beads of sweat cropping up along your brow or hairline. You can spray it on whether or not you're wearing coverage (in fact, it can actually help to set your makeup), making it all the more functional.

The clear spray is light, and it initially feels like dew drops on your skin, but it does have a slightly thicker consistency, like an aloe vera gel or a nice serum. The Mist Me Gently Instant Moisturizing & Relaxing Mist features hyaluronic acid, which is often used in moisturizes and anti-aging products since it attracts and binds water molecules and also helps to plump the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Other ingredients include Egyptian lotus, sacred lotus, and magnesium salt. I love the fact that Givenchy utilized Egyptian lotus extract since this drought-resistant bloom can definitely seal in moisture, and it soothes and calms the skin.

Now, of course, this is a liquid you're spraying on, so make sure to hold the spray at a good distance from your face (about 20 centimeters is considered ideal) and allow a few seconds for your skin to absorb it. If you're wearing makeup and it's a hot and sticky day, this might just prove to be your saving grace since it can keep your makeup from running and leaving your face looking as wilted as the clock in Dali's "Persistence of Memory" painting. A couple of spritzes will not only take care of the immediate problem (freshening up), but will also treat the skin so that, when you remove your makeup, your visage will appear healthier and more supple.

Givenchy Mist Me Gently, $35. Visit Sephora.com

Get In The Right Wavelength With The Meyerhoffer Board

Every time I saw the name "Meyerhoffer" as I prepped for this post, it make me think "Hasselhoff" — maybe it's because I have a warped little mind or maybe it's because they're both long names with "hoff" in them. But, most likely, it's because my knowledge of water sports (with the exception of sailing) is mainly derived from episodes of Baywatch and B movies (well, more like C+ movies) such as Blue Crush and Point Break. And as we all know, Hasselhoff was THE man for Baywatch fans. But real-life surfers, of course, have a different Hoff to worship: designer Thomas Meyerhoffer, the man responsible for the most buzzed-about innovation in longboarding.

Well-known for having developed the design of the Apple eMate (which preceded the Macbook, iMac and all of Apple's sleek computer designs), Thomas Meyerhoffer is revolutionizing the surfing experience with his eponymous longboard, which boasts a never-before-seen longboard design that incorporates three sections meant to make wave warriors glide, nose dive and turn with ease and fluidity. Acording to Meyerhoffer, the board's unique contours and sections allow for a more seamless experience, a greater connection between man and wave.

If you're a surfing aficionado (or you're considering taking up the sport), visit SurfIndustries.com for more information