The highlight of my fashion and beauty filled week was the opportunity to attend the sneak peek event for the Target Harlem Grand Opening. The star studded press event occurred on July 20 and on July 25, Tarjay Harlem will officially open its doors. Yay Team Harlem! So spread the word New York – For style, design, and great value: take the 6 train to 116th street.

Naturally I represented and wore a strong red lip (Lipstick Queen Red Sinner) for the grand opening. I mean c’mon, it’s Target…their logo is red!

Since I haven’t done a good old fashioned Face of the Day post in forever, let me go on and break this down for you

• FACE: Cover FX Skin Prep Primer. Make Up For Ever HD Concealer #360. Lanccome TEINT IDOLE FRESH WEAR (shade Suede 2w).
• CHEEKS: Lancome Ageless Minérale Blush in Brilliant Berry
• EYES: It Cosmetics Brow Power Universal Eye Brow Pencil. Kevyn Aucoin Volume Mascara
• LIPS: Lipstick Queen Red Sinner

Selita Ebanks walked the red carpet at the Target store opening. She added a bit of glamour to her nude Sir Alistair Rai dress with a gold braided necklace from the Melania™ Timepieces & Jewelry collection.The piece is available at QVC.com and retails for $39.00.

Selita was indeed a vision on the red carpet. I appreciate that she went high/low and combined her designer frock with a frugalista friendly accessory piece.

I too went the high/low route with simple black Christian Louboutin pumps, Fiona Paxton necklace,Mossimo v-neck pocket tee (From Target) and this Aqua brand gold/black metallic skirt from Bloomingdales. I snagged it on sale for about $18!

And you couldn’t tell me a thing as I hit my hottest contortionist model pose on the red carpet! Hilar!

Ok, next time I’ll leave the “posing” to the real models

While perusing the aisles (makeup aisles, of course) at the grand opening, I spotted one of my beauty faves. She was carefully inspecting her product line on the shelves — crossing t’s and dotting i’s! See if you recognize this iconic makeup artist and entrepreneur…

It’s Sonia Kashuk. Yep, THE Sonia Kashuk — the woman behind the popular exclusive target cosmetic line. We chatted for a spell and did a quick interview regarding her new eco-friendly beauty tools. More deets on the interview soon…

Here’s Sonia Kashuk’s new line of bamboo and cork brushes….

Culture and lifestyle maven, Bevy Smith was in attendance and I was lucky enough to snag a quick flick (and rub the hem of her DVF garment). If you’re not following @bevysmith on Twitter you’re missing out on a daily dose of invaluable “Bevy-isms”.

Speaking of Twitter, I finally met one of my Twitter faves in-person. Please meet @theelegantthrifter aka Stan Williams. His book, The Find: The Housing Works Book of Decorating With Thrift Shop Treasures, Flea Market Objects, and Vintage Details (Clarkson Potter) shows you “not just what to look for, but also how to look at an object to identify a great piece.”

Also follow Stan’s blog at www.theelegantthrifter.com

Here I am with world-renowed chef Marcus Samuelsson. Check out his kitchen collection at Target! Five-percent of each product’s purchase price will go to The Fund for Public Schools in support of the library at PS 180: Hugo Newman. www.schools.nyc.gov/site/M180

While I certainly enjoyed the many wonderful humans I met in Harlem that evening, it was a four-legged friend that sent my heart sailing….

Most folks at the event took “one” picture with Bullseye the Target mascot. Yours truly could not resist requesting a second picture with Bullseye…this one with a kiss! MmmmmmmmmmMWAH Bullseye!

Definitely check out the Harlem Tarjay! What a wonderful win for the community. #TeamHarlem!

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Beauty360.com, the online shopping destination for CVS/pharmacy’s prestige beauty retailer Beauty 360, carries coveted skincare brands including Ahava, Bioelements, Borba, Canyon Ranch Skincare, Mario Badescu and many more.

Today thru July 25 shop Beauty360.com for 20% off all your suncare and skincare purchases! By entering coupon code GLOW at checkout you will also receive free shipping when you spend $49 or more. Click on this link for additional details and products: http://tinyurl.com/337cyau

You may follow Beauty360 at www.twitter.com/beauty360 for beauty tips and news, event details and upcoming promotions.

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Here’s one for my brides — NYC Smile Design announces a cosmetic dental makeover contest for one lucky bride –to-be to win a FREE dental makeover worth up to $30,000. NYC Smile Design’s “Extreme Bridal Makeover” is a contest based in the metropolitan area. Women who are getting married are encouraged to share their stories for a chance to win a makeover worth $30,000.

In order to enter, the contestant must submit a story about why she is unhappy with her smile along with a picture. Dr. Ramin Tabib and Dr. Mello of NYC Smile Design will choose the person with the most compelling story to win the makeover and they will then work their magic to create the perfect smile for the big day.

In order to enter for a chance to win, you must first become a fan of NYC Smile Design’s Facebook page. Visit NYC Smile Design’s Facebook page for details to enter and for daily updates about the contest follow NYC Smile Design on Twitter.

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Visit Youngblood at the Plaza Hotel to get your ultimate mineral makeover. Through July 24, join the artists behind Youngblood to learn about flawless foundation application. For purchases over $150 you will receive an organza bag filled with a full size lip gloss, deluxe Primer sample, deluxe Hi-Def powder sample and a Kabuki brush.

Youngblood offers a comprehensive collection of natural-looking makeup. Visit the Plaza Hotel’s beauty level and learn more!

WHO: The Plaza Beauty

WHAT: Youngblood Cosmetics

WHEN: Now through Saturday, July 24th, 2010

WHERE: The Plaza Beauty One West 58th Street, Concourse Level NY, NY 10019 212.223.4694

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On July 26 one of my favorite makeup brands will debut on ShopNBC. (See previous BECCA posts here, here, here, and here)

BECCA Cosmetics will premiere on the network this Monday, July 26^th at 11am and 7pm ET. The line is a fave of mine because its complexion range satisfies from Nicole Kidman to Alek Wek. The line features natural looking cosmetics that focus on a flawless and fresh finish, while benefiting the skin with anti-oxidant vitamins and high levels of broad spectrum sunscreen.

Of the launch on ShopNBC, BECCA founder, Rebecca Morrice Williams, has this to say: “We’re thrilled to be launching BECCA on ShopNBC. Offering women the opportunity to create flawless, natural looking skin is what the BECCA line pivots around. We’ve chosen many special, best-selling products for the face, eyes, lips and cheeks, and are very excited to introduce them to the ShopNBC audience”.

Tune in and learn more about BECCA!

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Last, but certainly not least, here’s a deal from Stila that I just had to share…..

• Do you need makeup? (of course you do. LOL)
• Do you have $10?
• Ok, buy this!

Stila just launched limited edition Stila Girl Travel Palettes! The first of the series is Road to Radiance Across the USA inspired by Kylie’s road trip across the US!

The frugalista friendly palette includes:

Four Eye Shadows:
- Snow Bunny (shimmery champagne)
- Southern Belle (mauve)
- Valley Girl (pink)
- City Chick (alloy)

Convertible Color:
- Hibiscus (I lurrrrve Stila Convertible color cheek colors. “Fuchsia” is one of my faves)

Each palette is ONLY $10, a $65 VALUE! Collect all Five (check back next month for the new palette!)

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Have a great weekend everyone…I hope to do some crabbing down the shore! Nom nom!

xo,

Felicia

Felicia Walker Benson is a makeup expert, style/beauty writer and wardrobe stylist. She enthusiastically shares her passion for the aforementioned with anyone who will listen. Felicia is Editor in Chief for ThisThatBeauty, Contributing Writer for Essence.com and LVCMag, Contributing Editor/NY Correspondent for The Makeup Girl and a Beauty Expert for Examiner.com. Additionally, Felicia is the Social Networking Editor for the premier professional makeup artistry magazine, ON MAKEUP.

Disclosure From time to time the good folks from various brands, PR companies, and marketing firms graciously submit product to ThisThatBeauty for editorial consideration. Much appreciated! However, ThisThatBeauty readers can take comfort in knowing that gratis product has never nor will it ever guarantee a mention on my lil ol blog.

Get familiar!

Want to win a $500 Urban Outfitters gift card,$500 worth of Stila cosmetics and s trip to NYC –

CLICK HERE FOR DEETS

Felicia Walker Benson is a makeup expert, style/beauty writer and wardrobe stylist. She enthusiastically shares her passion for the aforementioned with anyone who will listen. Felicia is Editor in Chief for ThisThatBeauty, Contributing Writer for Essence.com and LVCMag, Contributing Editor/NY Correspondent for The Makeup Girl and a Beauty Expert for Examiner.com. Additionally, Felicia is the Social Networking Editor for the premier professional makeup artistry magazine, ON MAKEUP.

Disclosure From time to time the good folks from various brands, PR companies, and marketing firms graciously submit product to ThisThatBeauty for editorial consideration. Much appreciated! However, ThisThatBeauty readers can take comfort in knowing that gratis product has never nor will it ever guarantee a mention on my lil ol blog.

Fridays with Felicia:

An intimate look behind the curtain as I share my favorite style/ beauty discoveries and ThisThatBeauty shenanigans from previous week.

It is decided. The beloved hairdo that was once a childhood staple, has re-surged with a vengeance and shows strong signs of becoming my summer time go-to look. Yes ladies I’m talking about “cornrows”. From about age 1 to about age 6, cornrows were my thang! Mom braided my hair often. In returning to my roots, this week I decided to give my hair a break and sport a couple of loosely braided cornrows. What do you all think?

Not one to claim I started a trend when I did not, lets look to the runway….For LA Fashion Week Beauty Spring/Summer 2010, Future Heretics sent these braided beauties down the runway.

In Paris, for Spring/Summer 2010, Elie Saab and Jean Paul Gautier both showcased braids but from uniquely different perspectives. Gaultier  presented a collection of intricately woven buns, full-head braiding, and Aztec influenced designs.

Saab on the other hand opted for romantic and feminine plaited crowns.

Taking this look from runway to real life is easy.

The photos below reflect wearable alternatives.

Do you know what I absolutely love about summer? I mean my most favorite thing about summer? Swollen feet! Yea, nothing makes me feel sexier than fat old sausage-y feet! Grrrr! Every summer like clockwork I find myself fighting the Battle of the Bulge…not bulging hips — BULGING FEET! This week as the temperature climbed to above 80 degrees, my feet conspired to prevent me from wearing these <=======

Luckily, like a good little beauty blogger, I recalled that I had recently attended a Sally Hansen Spring product launch event and was introduced to JUST FEET Instant Relief Foot & Leg Gel. I dispensed a generous amount of the rich creamy gel and went to work on my feet. The caffeine extract enriched formula works to quickly visibly reduce puffiness. By vigorously massaging the gel into my ankles and feet, I increased circulation and reduced the swelling. This product is road tested and ThisThatBeauty approved. Bye bye puffy summer feet!

And not to be all “Sally Hansen – Sally Hansen”…but Sally Hansen Chrome Quick Pen is the business. I know I know I introduced you to Chrome Quick Pen last week….but that post did not include pics of yours truly rockin out to Silver Chrome. I double dog dare you to tell me that this polish is not a dead wringer for MINX. Here’s the color I wore all week (just one coat of polish).

Mario Badescu, one of favorite skin care lines, recently launched a new SPF product. All week I’ve been wearing Mario Badescu Oil Free Moisturizer SPF 30. You all know that I’ve been extra careful with my skin lately as I continue to focus on improving my Hyperpigmentation. Sunscreen is a MUST for every one, every day…but for individuals dealing with Hyperpigmentation, sunscreen is especially important because you don’t want your dark spot to get darker. For me, my dark spots come from old pimples. In an effort to keep my skin pimple free, I recently switched from my usual SPF product to Mario Badescu’s oil-free SPF 30. I’m sorry but skin does not need the extra oil. I’m oily enough already, thank you very much!

Mario Badescu Oil Free SPF 30 is extremely lightweight (perf for summer) and offers broadband UVA and UVB protection. It is formulated with antioxidant green tea, which helps to repair environmental damage. The moisturizer/sunscreen combo also contains St Johns Wort and Aloe Vera to soothe and calm inflamed skin. The two ounce bottle retails for $26…a steal for a product of this caliber!

I am absolutely amazed at the breadth of beauty products currently available at the drugstore level. L’Oréal Paris has recently launched Studio Secrets™, the brand’s first professional makeup line. When I first spied the line’s hero product,  Studio Secrets™ Professional Magic Perfecting Base, I must admit — I was skeptical. I like a good mix of high/ low as much as the next girl but can a twelve dollar and ninety five cent drugstore primer live up to its claim to deliver “perfect skin texture all day” and “minimize the look of pores and fine lines”? The beauty junkie, I mean, roving beauty journalist in me just had to road test this puppy.

Upon opening the small glass jar, I honest to God didn’t know what to expect from a drugstore primer (I can be a bit of a snob sometimes). Much to my surprise the texture is extremely light weight and blends on to skin like a dream. As you all know, I have extremely oily skin and its been rather warm this last week.  Studio Secrets™ Professional Magic Perfecting Base beautifully mattifies my skin and keeps the shine at bay. I am impressed with the fact that the product is oil-free. This is a major plus for individuals with oily, acne prone, and sensitive skin. The Magic Perfecting Base boasts a high elastomer content, which gives the primer its comfortable cushiony texture. If you’re tired of spending $30+ on your fancy department store primer, give Studio Secrets™ Professional Magic Perfecting Base a shot!

Mid week I popped in on my old pal (not really, I’ve just covered her work many times) Sarah Lucero (for Stila) as she prepped models backstage for the Rebecca Minkoff Holiday 2010 presentation. Sarah described the look as “dusty desert” inspired…a real departure from the traditional pretty girl sparkly look we tend to see around holiday.  The eyes were dark (espresso, brown, black), smoky and smoldering on top while tight and clean on the bottom. I asked Sarah if she was planning on incorporating the new Stila Smudge Sticks (I will review these soon, promise!)…she replied no. Instead she reached for espresso shadow (wet), puppy, and kajal liner in onyx to build/layer the color. There was sheen on the cheeks. The lips were flushed and slightly matte. Stila never disapoints. This was by far one of my favorite press events of the week!

Have a great weekend everyone!

xo,

Felicia

Oh, and Happy Mother’s Day!

Felicia Walker Benson is a makeup expert, style/beauty writer and wardrobe stylist. She enthusiastically shares her passion for the aforementioned with anyone who will listen. Felicia is Editor in Chief for ThisThatBeauty, Contributing Writer for Essence.com and LVCMag, Contributing Editor/NY Correspondent for The Makeup Girl and a Beauty Expert for Examiner.com. Additionally, Felicia is the Social Networking Editor for the premier professional makeup artistry magazine, ON MAKEUP.

Disclosure From time to time the good folks from various brands, PR companies, and marketing firms graciously submit product to ThisThatBeauty for editorial consideration. Much appreciated! However, ThisThatBeauty readers can take comfort in knowing that gratis product has never nor will it ever guarantee a mention on my lil ol blog.

Sarah Lucero for Stila led the makeup team at Rebecca Minkoff. Flushed cheeks, stained lips, and lush lashes evoked the presence of French bombshell Brigitte Bardot. Lucero wanted the models to look as if they were just brought in from the cold. Brrrr! To achieve the look of bitten lips and stained cheeks Lucero used  Peony Convertible Color on cheeks and Cherry Crush Lip Stain. For those who have been following my makeup game this Fashion Week, you know I am all about the look that I call “the deranged snow bunny”. Its basically glossy lips, lush lashes top and bottom, and hella stained cheeks. To achieve “the deranged snow bunny” I have relied on Stila Convertible Color in Fuchsia. Perfection! But back to the Stila look at Rebecca Minkoff…..

For luminous skin, models were prepped with Darphin Skin Care.  Stila Illuminating Liquid Foundation was used to create a smooth and even complexion. The lids were based with Dune eye shadow and top with Brown Smudge Pot and Java eyeshadow. (Y’all know how much I LOVE Smudge Pot, so I was filled with school girl excitement to see the product being used for Rebecca Minkoff’s runway look) The eyes were framed with Kajal Eye Liner in Topaz, drawing a thick cat eye.  Lastly, individual false lashes were applied and coated with Convertible Mascara. Here’s the ofish face chart:

#NYFW

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Felicia Walker Benson is a makeup expert, style/beauty writer and wardrobe stylist. She enthusiastically shares her passion for the aforementioned with anyone who will listen. Felicia is Editor in Chief for ThisThatBeauty, Contributing Writer for Essence.com and LVCMag, Contributing Editor/NY Correspondent for The Makeup Girl and a Beauty Expert for Examiner.com. Additionally, Felicia is the Social Networking Editor for the premier professional makeup artistry magazine, ON MAKEUP.

Disclosure From time to time the good folks from various brands, PR companies, and marketing firms graciously submit product to ThisThatBeauty for editorial consideration. Much appreciated! However, ThisThatBeauty readers can take comfort in knowing that gratis product has never nor will it ever guarantee a mention on my lil ol blog.

Well worry no more. You are an avid ThisThatBeauty reader which means I’ve got you covered. Behold, ThisThatBeauty’s Valentine’s Day Beauty Guide. So lets get you ready…

Do not let a pesky protruding pimple ruin your perfect Valentine’s Day plans. Stop that bad boy in it’s tracks with the new ZENO HOT SPOT Blemish Clearing Device ($39.99). This FDA approved and dermatologist recommended doo-hickey works by using thermal based technology to kill the bacteria that causes blemishes to occur. Sized to fit in the palm of your well manicured hand, ZENO HOT SPOT is perfect for on the go treatments. How many times have you looked in the mirror at work around lunch time and caught a dastardly pimple plotting to peak by end if day? Here’s where you need ZENO HOT SPOT. Each treatment lasts for two to three minutes. Most blemishes, if caught early, require only two to three treatments. Add ZENO HOT SPOT to your routine. I’d hate to see a mole hill turned mountain to destroy your sexy Valentine’s Day plans.

Because cleanliness is next to sexiness, add Philosophy Flirty Girl Set ($35) to your Valentine’s Day prep plans! Show him you mean business by pampering your body with this soft, sweet, irresistible scent. The combination of Flirty Girl shower gel and lotion layers the light hearted scent beautifully…not at all overwhelming.

Get your skin rub-a dub ready with Creme of Nature’s new line of affordable hydrating lotions.The collection is formulated with natural ingrdients that deliver intense moisture to parched, dehydrated skin. Trust me, yo man does not want to feel all up on your scaly legs. Moisturize that si-du-a-tion (forgive me for the Jersey Shore refernce) with one of Creme of Nature three emollient blends: African Violet & Chamomille, Olive Oil & Lemon Zest, Sweet Mandarin & Lemongrass. Find a store near you.

For the smaller proportioned bella who struggles to find appropriate V-Day ready lingerie, may I suggest The Little Bra Company, a line of sexy, comfortable and stylish lingerie for women sizes 28A to 36B. The Little Bra company celebrates the fact that “good things do come in small packages™.” The sexy red Lucia ($56) features contoured, deep-plunge styling for the ultimate cleavage enhancement with glamorous, smooth lace that makes any small-busted woman feel gorgeous and confident. Lucia is the perfect choice for a dose of feminine confidence this Valentine’s Day…and beyond! Go on, play up your assets!

Don’t forget the “Fat Free Dressing“….a new collection of shapewear from Maidenform ($22-$30) that’s meant to secretly slim, smooth, and shape the body. This life saving figure flattering collection offers a tank top, tee shirt and boy short to address your shapewear needs. The tops are longer in length so there’s no embarrassing “roll down”. “Fat Free Dressing” is designed to fit comfortably all day long. If you’re wearing a body hugging top, dress or skirt for your Valentine’s Day rendezvous, consider these sexy underpinnings. ADDED BONUS: “Fat Free Dressing” is shapewear that doesn’t look like, you know? Shapewear!

If your cup runneth over, try Elomi lingerie for the fuller figure. The collection has a sexy boudoir feel that oozes glamour. From french inspired floral embroidery to contrasting underlay, the designs artfully combine comfort and support with a dash of naughty and nice!

If your pre Valentine’s Day primp fest leads you to the salon for a hair cut, preserve the integrity of your cut with HerCut ($22-$28), a new line of hair care products designed around your specific haircut….not hair type. Genius! The philosophy of the line is simple: All (most) cuts derive from five basic cuts – bob, pixie, shag, blunt, long layers. It does not take an expert to maintain your straight from the salon style, it merely takes the proper products that support your cut. In a press breakfast with HerCut Ambassador and Emmy Award winner Kyan Douglas, I learned that HerCut employs “catalysts” that work at the molecular level to ensure that hair conforms to the shape of your individual cut. Essentially, HerCut picks up where your stylist leaves off. Each HerCut “catalyst” (a serum to be used prior to blow drying) is customized for the five hair cuts previously mentioned. If you struggle to maintain your style post-salon visit, HerCut might be just what you need. And with Valentine’s Day just ’round the corner, you want to make sure your locks are their absolute best!

Don’t let excessive frizz ruin your dinner plans with Mr. Wonderful. Remington Frizz Therapy 1″ Straightener ($49.99) promises all day anti-frizz protection….even in high humidity! High grade ceramic plates dramatically diminish frizz upon styling. The frizz protection feature helps hair resist the effects of humidity all day, thus insuring a sleek smooth style. And since this a Valentine’s Day beauty guide, might I also suggest tossing this bad boy in your overnight bag for the morning after…if ya know what I mean

This Valentine’s Day send his pulse racing with Kelly Van Gogh Wonderlust Illuminating Hair Tonic ($30). This multi-tasking wonder spray delivers smooth, sexy hair with long-lasting results. With just a quick spritz to damp hair, your locks are transformed into tantalizing tresses without a costly trip trip to the salon. Can we say “frugalista friendly”? Kelly Van Gogh Wonderlust Illuminating Hair Tonic incorporates mica shine technology, keratin proteins and caviar conditioners, to revitalize dry, dull hair and protect it from environmental factors including pollution, heat and water damage. This Valentine’s Day fall in love with Kelly Van Gogh Wonderlust Illuminating Hair Tonic!

Make him starry eyed with Urban Decay Stardust ($20). This eye catching shadow delivers a soft sheer wash of color coupled with the tiniest bits of iridescent sparkle. The glistening effect resembles that of wet snow. Yum…so sexy and McDreamy. Capture his eyes and heart this Valentine’s Day with an alluring pop of Stardust. From go-to basic neutrals like black, grey and brown to bright bursts of of turquoise, green and purple. The wide range of Stardust shades will help you bring out your inner kitten. Purrrrr! Want to know my personal fav? It’s Moon Spoon, described as grey with iridescent sparkle!

If your lip gloss isn’t poppin‘, try this – LORAC Multiplex 3D Lip Gloss ($22). This innovative paraben free gloss contains holographic pigments for multidimensional shine. The formula delivers a high lacquer, glam, glossy, vibrant finish with long lasting color. If you gotta get that BOOM BOOM BOOM for your lips, you gotta get LORAC Multiplex 3D Lip Gloss. My traffic stopping favs include Polished and Vivid. MWAH!

For girls who are short on time and have but a few precious moments to go from “office attire’ to “date ready”, this Valentine’s Day try Stila Yumberry Crush Lip & Cheek Stain ($24). When multitasking is a must, a great lip and cheek stain can be your BFF. Conveniently packaged in Stila’s iconic click-able pen, this lip/cheek combo reacts to your personal pH to give you a beautiful, fresh-faced flush in your perfect shade of pink.

If sexy bedroom eyes are on your Valentine’s Day prep list, try L’Oreal Paris Telescopic Explosion Mascara. Frugalistas, breakdance! This drugstore mascara (which performs like a pricey department store formula) retails for $9.49. If you’re smart, you will try to catch it during a BOGO at your local Walgreens, Duane Reade, CVS, etc. The genius technology behind L’Oreal Paris Telescopic Explosion Mascara is the spherical brush and clean formula that lengthens while separating. At first the design of the brush freaked me the heck out, TRUE STORY! But the results were Ah-May-Zing! See for yourself then run out and get your own!

If subtlety is your thing, try Coy, the newest gloss from Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics. Coy is an extremely wearable and versatile shade of nude pink. Don’t let the name fool you…Coy redefines lips for a plumper pout. It is specially formulated with Portulaca Extract, a natural peptide that stimulates hyaluronic acid synthesis to help add volume to lips. But hold up…there’s not irritating tingle or stinging involved. YES! Coy is also non sticky and incorporates Vitamin E to hydrate as it smooths. Say yes to Coy this Valentine’s Day and maybe you’ll be saying “YES” All. Night.Long. We’re all grown…I’m just saying!

Couture Couture ($35-$100), an “it girl” fragrance from Juicy Couture, is a stellar choice for Valentine’s Day. The aromatic blend of pink grape, orange flower, mandarin, blushed plum, honeysuckle, and sandalwood will capture Mr. Wonderful’s senses…the rest is up to you! Couture Couture is available at Bloomingdales.com.

For a little His and Hers action try two irresistible scents by Thierry Mugler. For her: ANGEL is the classic Thierry Mugler fragrance that started it all. Known for its pure, soft, and innocent style, ANGEL boasts notes of Bergamot, Hedione, Helional, Honey, Dewberry, Red Berries, Vanilla, Caramel, Patchouli, Chocolate, and Coumarin. The warm tender scent is sure to keep his attention this Valentine’s Day.

For him: A*Men will have you saying “Amen”. The strength of this fragrance lies in its perfect blend of fire and warmth…the perfect element for pure seduction.

ANGEL and A*Men by Thierry Mugler are available at Saks, Nordstrom, Bloomies, Neiman Marcus, and ThieryMugler.com

Simply put – DAY-UM! This aint yo grandmomma’s robe. No ma’am! Jenna Leigh’s Kimono Robe ($96) is for the grown and sexy. Translation: I WANT THIS! I love understated sexy…and while the models boobs are practically 3D in the picture below, I love that the robe offers a touch of modesty in in terms of coverage, but beautifully hugs a woman’s body in all the right places. I see this robe being a “warm up” piece. Its what you wear while preparing your sexy Valentine’s Day dinner at home. The wrap/ kimono style is perfect for a little “oops, my robe keeps coming undone “. After about three accidental slips of the kimono coming undone, dinner should be finished and then on to dessert. You feel me?

If a hot, steamy, sexy bath is on your Valentines Day list try Bath Ice Cream ($8.50). These adorable bath delights are perfect for creating a romantic spa like retreat at home. Bath Ice Cream fizz and melt immediately when submerged in water for an incredibly relaxing and indulgent experience. With over 40 flavors to choose from, the only thing left to do is to light a candle and….

Happy Valentine’s Day everyone!

Felicia Walker Benson is a makeup expert, style/beauty writer and wardrobe stylist. She enthusiastically shares her passion for the aforementioned with anyone who will listen. Felicia is Editor in Chief for ThisThatBeauty, Contributing Writer for Essence.com and LVCMag, Contributing Editor/NY Correspondent for The Makeup Girl and a Beauty Expert for Examiner.com. Additionally, Felicia is the Social Networking Editor for the premier professional makeup artistry magazine, ON MAKEUP.

Disclosure From time to time the good folks from various brands, PR companies, and marketing firms graciously submit product to ThisThatBeauty for editorial consideration. Much appreciated! However, ThisThatBeauty readers can take comfort in knowing that gratis product has never nor will it ever guarantee a mention on my lil ol blog.

PRODUCT DETAILS (via Sephora)

What it is:
A quartet of shimmering mini Smudge Pots and a mini Smudge Pot brush.

What it does:
This stunning set of Smudge Pots—the cult-favorite, gel-based shadow and liner in one—features four shimmering shades (two bestsellers and TWO exclusive new holiday hues!). The transfer- and smudge-resistant formula is easy to apply for lining, blending, and lash-thickening. The perfectly portable size and mini eye liner brush make them great for travel and on-the-go glam. You’ll be able to create countless subtle-y, shimmery eye looks for the holidays and every day!

This set contains:
- Black (intense black)
- Kitten (the eye-conic universally flattering shimmering nude champagne)
- Violet (bright shimmering ultraviolet)
- Starry Night (deep shimmering navy)

What else you need to know:
The formula is water resistant for all-day wear.

“cute eyeshadow”

“love the look, I could never pull that off”"

And on the inside I’m thinking “if they only knew I pulled off this lil diddy in the time it takes to lace a shoe”.

Well today my lovelies, my Stila Little Black Dress Simple Smokey Eye secret is yours for the taking. You know I loves to share. No holding out here. No ma’am! OK, so it goes a lil something like this:

For super intense smokey eye with more black than purple, follow steps 1-4.

For a rockin’ smokey eye that’s more purple than black, simple omit my reference to black eyeliner in the steps below:

1: Base your lower lid and upper/lower waterline with a creamy super black eye liner. My choice is MAC Feline

2. Using a smudger brush (or your finger), smudge the base you just created

3. Using a synthetic brush (or your finger), apply Stila Little Black Dress all over the black eyeliner base on lower lid as well as across the lower lashline.

4. Using a soft crease brush, apply a neutral shadow or powder foundation into the crease. I use MAC Mineralize Skin Finish in Dark

5. Apply mascara to upper/ lower lash line

6. Groom brows as you see fit. I opted to not do a brow highlight for this look…after all, its a “simple” smokey eye

So what do y’all think? Is this simple smokey eye super simple or what? Just add a nude glossy lip and you’re good to go!

Here are exclusive backstage shots of the hair and makeup prep. And if you look closely, you’ll even see a few blurry pics (gotta get a better camera) of the stealth Ms Betsey Johnson.

#NYFW

Show: Betsey Johnson

Hair: Peter Gray for Redken

Makeup: Sarah Lucero for Stila

• The Makeup Player
• One Step Foundation
• Eye Shadow Trio
• Lip Glaze
• Convertible Color
• #7 Eye Shadow Brush
• Beautytube DVD & instruction card

When ordering your personalized Makeup Player the first step is to select your shade:

http://www.stilabeautytube.com/selectshade.asp

• The range goes from Anne Hathaway/Nicole Kidman to JLo/Beyonce…boo to that for brown girls like me…but I still loves me some Stila Smudge Pot. LOL)

The next step is to choose you your continuity program:

http://www.stilabeautytube.com/continuity.asp?sendback=CON00D

• Every two months your receive a 60 day supply of One Step Makeup in your shade of choice. In addition you receive coordinating eye shadows and Lip Glaze.

Are you guys interested in trying this out? What do you think?