Tag: Neiman Marcus

Byredo Bal D’Afrique Eau de Parfum

There has been quite a bit of buzz about Byredo in the beauty community. I was captivated by the cool Scandinavian packaging and sexy names of all the scents. Based in Stockholm, Byredo was founded by a painter and has partnered with some iconic perfumers. All the fragrances are inspired by locations or works of art.

These fragrances are specifically crafted with simplicity. My new favorite – Bal d’Afrique – lets the vetiver shine through. And no wonder this one jumped out as a favorite for me… it is inspired by Paris (my favorite city). But it isn’t just Parisian. The scent is infused with African culture: read neroli, African marigold and cedarwood.

To top it all off, Byredo makes the very sexy Byredo Nécessaire de Voyage Collection Calf Leather Travel Case. The leather feels like butter and there is no more fashionable way to freshen your fragrance on the go. Needless to say, their other goodies like bar soaps, body creams, lotions, and travel cases, and candles are on my wish list.

Samples generously provided by Neiman Marcus as part of the Beauty Ambassador Program, but as always, opinions are my own.

Cartier Fragrance Baiser Volé Lys Rose Eau de Parfum

It is so hard to review a fragrance. I consider it such a personal preference. But this one from Neiman’s took me by surprise. I usually love musky, Oriental and masculine scents. But this being summer, I guess I need a change of pace.

When I first encountered Cartier Fragrance Baiser Volé Lys Rose Eau de Parfum, I was dissuaded by the “rose”. It just isn’t my thing even if it is awfully in vogue these days. But actually this new fragrance from Cartier is based around lily (so feminine but still sultry).

Pink lily are married with raspberry and some notes of powder – and I couldn’t think of a better name: Baiser Volé (a stolen kiss).

Samples generously provided by Neiman Marcus as part of the Beauty Ambassador Program, but as always, opinions are my own.

Tata Harper Fortifying Body Lotion

If there is one area of grooming that I am lacking in, it has to be body lotion. Embarrassingly enough, I remember an elementary school teacher reminding me to put lotion on my legs – definitely a requirement in my super dry childhood home of Denver, Colorado.

Now that I got that little confession off my chest, I have to divulge what got me into the swing of things when it comes to the body hydration department. My adulthood spent in Tulsa doesn’t quite have the dryness of Denver but I certainly wouldn’t call it “balmy”. So lotion is a must. And bonus: as my skin ages, I can see improved tone and radiance with the daily application of lotion.

Well, get ready to bring that to a whole new level with Tata Harper Fortifying Body Lotion. Tata makes all of her products on her farm in Vermont and even grows a portion of her ingredients there. Her products demonstrate dedication to natural ingredients. But she never compromises on results and performance. No wonder a luxury store like Neiman Marcus stocks these beautiful potions.

While I have tried a lot of her skin care, this is the first body product of hers that I have tried (I am drooling over the body oil and will move mountains to get some in my hands). The lotion is packed with ingredients to strengthen and restore skin. My skin is left soft but not one bit greasy. And I honestly thing the moisture level is dramatically improved even days after use. The scent is herbal, spa-like and relatively strong. I love it but if you are sensitive, it is worth testing before purchase.

Partly because of the scent (it is strong enough to interfere with perfume and at the same time very calming), I apply to my whole body before bed. My skin wakes up with radiance, hydration and smoothness. Available at Neiman Marcus.

Samples generously provided by Neiman Marcus as part of the Beauty Ambassador Program, but as always, opinions are my own.

Smoothing Body Scrubs

Now in the full swing of summer pool weather, I am guessing that most of us have bemoaned somewhat uneven skin and maybe some nasty cellulite. And if you are beauty/skin care buff like me, you also know that there is no permanent at-home treatment for this nasty little feature. There is good news though. Today’s smoothing body scrubs are better than even and can promise a full day of tightened skin. Hey, it isn’t a permanent solution but I’ll take it!

First up is the much talked about Frank. Who is this Frank you ask? Someone you want to know. What sold me, being a social media junkie, was Frank’s amazing Instagram – a definite must follow. Frank is a Brooklyn-based body scrub company that uses coffee blended with other ingredients. There are three “flavors” and I elected to try the classic with sweet almond and orange (also available is coconut/grapeseed and cocoa).

Frank directs you to apply two handfuls to damp skin and allow to dry for five to ten minutes. Great in theory. What I found is this stuff is really messy. I was scared to leave my shower so basically I just stood there cold and drying, naked in my shower for as long as possible. I think I maybe made it three minutes. But that was all worth it when smooth and even skin was revealed. I was a little red but that dissappated so quickly. So I didn’t mind cleaning up the destruction of coffee grinds all over the shower.

This scrub not only targets cellulite and stretch marks but also psoriasis, varicose veins, eczema and acne. Skin is left moisturized and nourished thanks to the almond oil, vitamins and minerals. The bag is probably enough for four or five treatments. Bottom line: if you don’t mind a mess and love the smell of coffee, this is for you.

Interested in something a little neater (and more luxe)? Orlane Aqua Svelte Slimming Scrub is a clear shower gel that is specifically designed to smooth skin, fight cellulite and remove dead skin cells. The gel reacts when it is used in water, releasing exfoliating particles. Microspheres, Caffeine, Ginger essential oil and Marine Algae work in synergy to produce a triple action. There is a refreshing cool sensation and an awesome marine-like scent.

While there are no specific directions as to how to apply the scrub, warm water is crucial. I get after it with a pretty energetic scrub and massage. Then rinse away product with cold water (which can prolong the effects).

So what is your type? Are you going for the dirty buzz of Frank or do you prefer the elegant refreshment of Orlane?

I purchased Frank myself. Orlane Aqua Svelte Slimming Scrub was generously provided by Neiman Marcus as part of the Beauty Ambassador Program, but as always, opinions are my own.

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NuFACE Mini Facial Toning Device

I am always game to try out skin care devices. But I do admit I approach them with a bit of skepticism (the exception, of course, is my beloved Clarisonic). But I have found another device that I am totally sold on. It all started with this post on Into The Gloss. Designer Cedella Marley shares why she loves NuFace:

“NuFACE … is this little gadget that basically sends currents into your skin. At first I thought it was BS. You have to use it for years and years and years, and it actually lifts the skin. It really does it! I do the eyebrows, around the neckline, the laughing jowls, and the cheekbones.”

The NuFACE Mini Facial Toning Device has been in my rotation for a month or so and I can already see how the gentle stimulation can improve appearance. The smaller version is perfect for beginners and I actually love it for travel. The device is clinically tested to improve contour, skin tone and wrinkles just by using 5 minutes a day. And it is FCA-cleared.

Are you in the market for a little lift? We are talking opening eyes, contouring the jawline and lifting eyebrows. Sign me up. The way the NuFACE improves skin is with microcurrent technology, often used in spas and medical offices. Microcurrent has been shown to stimulate ATP production, which drives the creation of key structural proteins, such as collagen and elastin. It can also energize facial muscles just like exercise, amping up the lifted appearance. The low-level current has zero pain and can provide immediate and cumulative effects. After just one treatment, my skin looked more radiant and plump. Microcurrent treatments are often even referred to as a “5 minute facial-lift”.

Using this little gem is easy breezy. Apply a NuFACE primer, included with the device. Follow directions by gliding the NuFACE over jowls, forehead and neck. Each glide is five seconds and each area requires three glides. The device will shut off automatically when your treatment is completed. Also included is a power adapter, manual and one-year warranty.

Founder, Carol Cole, was a pioneer in micro-currents using them beginning in 1985. She is a true beliver in beauty from the inside out, focusing on under and within the skin. In 2005, she launched NuFACE providing an at-home device that delivers micro-currents. The NuFACE has been recognized by top beauty and fashion editors from Vogue, InStyle, Elle, Self, Shape, Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar, and Redbook magazines. With its FDA clearance, you can’t beat NuFACE for proven at-home skin care treatment for lifting and improved tone – perfect for spa nights or just vegging on the couch!

Samples generously provided by Neiman Marcus as part of the Beauty Ambassador Program, but as always, opinions are my own.

Winks by Georgie Beauty Ultimate Eyelash Curler

As you probably can imagine, I am always trying out 2-3 versions of each type of makeup. Three eyeliners, two foundations, three blushes, etc… But one item I tend to stay loyal to is an eyelash curler. Keep in mind, this is one of my “must have” products. I love the way it can open your face and eyes in just one step.

It all started with a long relationship with Revlon. Then I had a love affair with the classic Shiseido. I went luxe for several years with CHANEL. But sadly that ended with a worn out tool. Might I add, it was a beautiful relationship and worth every penny.

Just in the nick of time, Winks by Georgie Beauty Ultimate Eyelash Curler landed on my doorstep. The key to these long term relationships is the curve of the implement. And this one is just right for my large and deep-set almond-shaped eyes. What makes Winks by Georgie Beauty Ultimate Eyelash Curler really special is the USDA-certified organic blue chamomile plush pad (note: each curler also comes with two replacement pads).

These pads have a super-cushiony feel and are gentle on lashes. The chamomile conditions the tiny hairs, keeping lashes long and healthy. The curling action doesn’t crimp, but imparts a long lasting swooping curl.

No wonder Winks by Georgie came up with such a revolutionary curler. Their faux lash collection hit shelves in 2010 with much deserved fanfare. They are the only strip lashes that I can apply and still look natural. Bonus: they are reusable and come with a botanically infused adhesive.

Right now, Neiman Marcus is holding their Beauty Tools Event. Receive limited-time gifts when you shop our best tools of the trade online! The curler is currently on back order but certainly worth the wait with an expected ship date of 8/1.

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Samples generously provided by Neiman Marcus as part of the Beauty Ambassador Program, but as always, opinions are my own.