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Joie de Vivre: Voutre Vu Launches French Accents Color Collection

July 14th is a day of celebration to commemorate the storming of the Bastille in France; a day to remember the end of the French Revolution and the beginning of a new era in French history. This past Bastille Day marked the beginning of a new era for those of us in the beauty industry as well. I was joined by beauty writers and addicts alike at the Bakehouse Bistro & Café in the West Village to celebrate the recent launch of the Votre Vu French Accents Premier Color Collection. Known for their high quality makeup made with plant-based ingredients (and no animal testing!), this was my first introduction into the brands cosmetic line — I know them more for their skincare.

The event could not have been any more fabulously Parision — the venue was perfect, the staff was dressed in Marie Antoinette-esque wigs and berets, delicious cocktails were served, and (most notably) there was a beautiful showcase of the French Accents premier color collection on display for all to admire.

Smashbox Launches Fall 2012 Image Factory Collection

Fresh for fall, Smashbox has launched their Image Factory collection. Consisting of products for eyes, lips and cheeks, the limited edition collection is straight from a modern-day image factory, AND I CAN NOT WAIT TO TRY IT! The reviews are steller at Sephora, unfortunately I’m currently road tripping through the west coast on my way to Burning Man, so I’m going to have to wait until I’m back in NY to get my hands on this collection!

Smashbox is also partnering with People StyleWatch to launch the Image Factory contest! If you’re an up-and-coming photographers, makeup artists and/or stylists (or aspire to be one), you’re invited to upload three photos of your best work to ImageFactoryContest.com. Fans will vote on their favorites, and three finalists from each category (photography, makeup artistry and styling) will be chosen to be flown to the Smashbox Studios in Los Angeles to work on a real shoot for a Smashbox Cosmetics advertisement that will appear in People StyleWatch. To enter and learn more, visit ImageFactoryContest.com by September 15th!

Now for the Image Factory Collection! 

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You Have the Power: Choose Your Mood with Lifetherapy!

What if I told you that during a stressful moment at work or an unnerving time at home, you could instantly transport yourself to a place of relaxation and happiness? Seems like an impossible feat at times, no? Lynette Lovelace, owner and creator of the lifestyle brand, Lifetherapy, will tell you otherwise.

Lynette’s story is inspiring. Hardship fell over her family in 2001, when her 2-year-old son was diagnosed with a life-threatening illness and needed major surgery. Fortunately her son recovered, but sadness hit again in 2008, this time with her 12-year-old daughter falling ill. As someone who values her family more than anything, I can’t imagine all that Lynette has been through and I have so much respect for her ability to stay so strong throughout both ordeals. 

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Beach Bag Essentials: Top products to have on your radar

Whether you’re planning a trip to the beach, a lake or Central Park, there’s some key don’t-leave-home-without products that make the leisure day in the sun that much better. And with summer in full swing here are some of our top beach bag picks!

Morning routine: Start fresh!

1. Rembrant Deeply White Toothpaste – It’s an all-in-one fluoride toothpaste with Active Dental Peroxide that helps safely whiten below the enamel to remove deep and surface stains. I like that it offers a deep whitening without being too strong and makes for a pleasant brushing experience. The packaging is simple and clean and aesthetically looks great in my bathroom along with it’s Deeply White Mouthwash counterpart (which I also use). At 2.6oz, it’s big enough for your bathroom and yet small enough that it fits comfortably in most makeup cases if you’re on the go and need an afternoon freshen up.

2. Degree NaturEffects deodorant– With temperatures hitting close to 90 degrees do everyone a favor (including yourself) and apply! I use the orange flower + cranberry scent which smells lovely. As both an anti-perspirant & deodorant in one, it keeps me dry and is offers long-lasting protection. Plus it goes on smooth and has never given my clothes a single mark.

The gear!

3. THE BAG! People often use weekender bags interchangeably with beach bags and unless you’re packing for the whole fam that can get a little bulky (plus the bigger a bag, the more you’ll fill it with stuff you don’t need). I opt for the L.L.Bean Boat and Tote bag in size medium ($33.95). Opting for a size smaller then the weekender makes the bag much more comfortable to hold while still guaranteeing room for all your beach essentials.

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Send a card with the justWink app…


I’m a card person. I get it from my mom, who actually has a collection of them. Whenever she sees a great card, she purchases it and adds it to the collection so whenever she has an occasion warranting the perfect card, she’s fully stocked. And why? Because a good card make someone’s day! While most of us will pick up a card on our way to a friends birthday, housewarming, wedding or otherwise in-person event, it feels like the act of mailing cards is on the decline. That’s where the justWink app comes in.

You may know justWink from their fun and quirky cards sold nationally at drugstores, well the greeting cards company has created an app that lets you send a card via text, facebook, email, twitter and even mail! Plus you can set it to sink with Facebook for birthday reminders making it that much easier to tell someone you’re thinking about them on their day.


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Here’s how it works: Smartphone and ipad owners download the justWink app. From there you can browse cards based on different occasions and pick your favorite!

My beau is currently driving cross country so I thought a card to let him know I’m thinking of him would be a nice touch — and what better way to say that then with two ice cream cones making out?

Card picked, clicked “send me now!”  From there you can click on the different fields to personalize it with a picture and message.

I uploaded a pic of the two of us from my iPhone, typed in a message, and signed. Voila!

I then hit “send!” And it gives you the option to email, facebook, twitter, text mst, real mail ($2.99)… I opted for email and look at how cute it is when it goes into the recipients inbox!!!

What’s also awesome is that you get an email in your inbox once the person you sent it to opens it. The app is incredibly well thought out and user friendly — I rated it 5 stars in the App Store as did the other 137 people who reviewed it before me. My only feedback for justWink is more cards options, more card options! Although they seem to be adding to the assortment regularly, I’m just impatient.

So get downloading and let someone you think is special know that you’re thinking of them!

ABOUT: justWink is an awesome collection of greeting cards that feature bold colors, adorable illustrations, and witty copy for every occasion.  The combination of whimsical unicorns, sweater-wearing cats, and (of course) bacon with realistic, yet playful messages create an unexpected experience for all.  And guess what?  Each card has a QR code and URL on the back that directs you to a free justWink app for iPhone and Android phones.  Download the app and you can send digital cards via text, email or Facebook.  For more information and where to find justWink cards on shelf, visit www.just-wink.com or www.facebook.com/justwink.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by JustWink via Glam Media.  The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of JustWink. 

Smooth and Polished: Redken Introduces New Smooth Lock Technology

There are few things more dreadful than waking up to a forecast of excessive heat and humidity and if you have hair like mine then hot summer days can be your worst nightmare. Recently, I joined renowned salon owner, stylist and brand ambassador Rodney Cutler as he presented Redken’s new product line and service (and solution to summertime hair woes): enter Redken’s new Smooth Lock technology.

Many hair products out there are directed towards one hair type or another, but Redken’s new line was created to cater to hair types across

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COMING SOON! Kiehl’s NEW Fragrance Line: Aromatic Blends

Okay Kiehl’s fans, good news! The skincare brand is introducing a new fragrance category: Aromatic Blends!

Launching with four scents, Orange Flower & Lychee, Vanilla & Cedarwood, Nashi Blossom & Pink Grapefruit, and Fig Leaf & Sage; each Aromatic Blend is available in a Fragrance ($40/30ml, $75/100ml), Skin-Softening Body Lotion ($26) and Skin-Softening Body Cleaners ($24).

Formulated with sustainably sourced notes from all over the world, Aromatic Blends are designed to take Kiehl’s customers on a voyage through the lush countryside of Provence, a desert oasis in Morocco, the dense jungle of Uganda and the tranquil gardens of Japan. This journey will be evident through their window displays and reminiscent as you smell each, unique fragrance in-store.

While the collection doesn’t officially launch until July 10th (don’t worry, they are available now for pre-order on Kiehls.com), we’re excited to share a sneak peak of the Kiehl’s fragrances and the visuals!

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Rock out with your mark. out

I’m seriously digging mark.’s latest jewelry line. While the younger, hipper little sister to Avon may be known for it’s makeup collection, it’s really the accessories that have been catching my attention this season. It’s very Alexis Bittar meets Alex & Chloe glam-rocker (at a fraction of the price) and I’m totally into it.

1. mark. Line Up Necklace ($18): It looks super cute on the model featured on mark.’s website and curves perfectly along the signature of her neck.

2. mark. Pick a Posey Earrings ($18): Holy ball of sparkle glam. I love the rustic inconstancy of these earrings. I want!

3. mark. Double Skull Ring ($16): This is my first skull jewelry of any kind and I wear it all the time. It’s a great shape and can be layered or worn on it’s own.

4. mark. Pave the Way Bracelet Set ($24): Totally cute worn together, although they look great in a sea of mixed bangles.

5. mark. Triple Threat Earring Set ($20): Everyone should own a pair of pyramid studs. You’d be surprise how often they compliment an outfit. I’m not a fan of the wishbones (I think they look a little cheap), and the green heart earrings are cute and nice compliment to a bright, summer outfit. Basically, what I’m saying is this set is worth getting just for the pyramid studs.

Disclosure: Pretty Connected previewed these items at a mark. event and was sent a complimentary sample of the Double Skull ring for post consideration. Pretty Connected was under no obligation to write this post.

 

#Accessorize4Wellness with Pamela Pekerman

If I had to describe, Pamela Pekerman in three words, it would probably be: fit, fierce and fabulous. So when the style expert hosted her Accessorize for Wellness event showcasing her tips and product recommendations to mirror those three adjectives, I was so there (and taking notes!). Take the journey with Pamela, all of her recommendations below:

{Meet our host, Pamela Pekerman}

{Seriously though, how happy does Pamela make you? Even in 100 degree weather this stylista’s hair looks flawless and does anyone else need a minute for her Barbiesque neon heels?}

And now for our recommendations…

1. Pluggz – What an innovative flip-flop company. They look like regular rubber flip-flops, only they have this big black plug in the center of the shoe that allows the flow of free electrons between you and the earth when you walk . The technology is set to mimic that great feeling you get when you walk barefoot on grass and sand that comes from standing on a natural energy source. Personally, I think it has a reflexology vibe with the plug hitting the center of my foot when I walk. I’m into it.

2. Yummie Tummie – Can one ever have too much shape wear? Yummie Tummie is a modern body contouring shaper, with a full clothing line of intimates and seperates that works to slip your mid-section and camouflaging visible lumps and bumps. Their collection doesn’t need to be concealed under clothing and can be exposed to do it’s job! Their tanks (I am modeling the Original below) are designed to take 5 lbs off your appearance! And they are super comfortable and fashionable. Everyone needs a good collection of basic tanks… am I right?

{What do you think, do I look 5 lbs thinner in my Yummie Tummie Original Tank?}

3. The Fitness Cell Collective – Taking a “cellular” approach to fitness, this semi-private personal trainer center is located on the UES and is where the event was hosted.  You can learn more on their website or follow my tweets @PrettyConnected on Thursday at 5pm (the hashtag is #getfit) when I take my first class! “The sessions are specially designed to keep the body’s structural and cardio-respiratory systems in a constant state of adaptation” — I have no idea what that means, but I look forward to finding out.  (You can also follow their twitter handle @CellCollective)

4. Emmi Swiss Yogurt– My grandmother used to say 2 tablespoons of yogurt a day fixes everything, which is probably why I try to eat it daily. While Emmi has a full line of flavored yogurts (they recently launched Green Apple), I’m afraid when it comes to yogurt

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Weekender Packing List: 10 Beach Bag Essentials

Since kicking off Memorial Day weekend in the Hamptons, I have not spent a single weekend in New York — I think I’ve officially played into the NYC stereotype (you know what they say New Yorkers leave the city during the summer weekends). No, not really! While I’ll be spending plenty of future weekends in NYC, the time away has helped me perfect my beach destination weekender bag packing list. While the products may change (although I’m a bit of a loyalist), the list shall remain the same… (for now.)

1. A Large Tote/Beach Bag

Vineyard Vines Vineyard Classic Tote ($95) – great for a weekend escape and perfect size tote for the beach! It can comfortably fit my towel, sunnies, book, snacks and bottle of wine (beach approved). Plus I’m originally from Mass., so I gotta represent for my Vinyard friends!

2. Bathing Suit Holder

Henri Bendel Bendel Girl Bikini Bag ($38) -It’s everything I never knew I always needed! It’s amazing this Bendel’s girl went so long without a case for her wet bathing suit. Especially since I like to be at the beach until the  very last minute or my getaway and don’t always have time to hang my suit to dry before packing it. (And I really dislike wasting plastic bags to carry it in.)

3. Bug Reppelant!

Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard Towelettes (8 pack/$14) and Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard Anti-Itch Spray ($10) – Mosquitos love me. Like, literally, I could be your walking bug repellant which is why I don’t leave my house in the summertime without an Avon’s Bug Towelette in my purse. It’s deet-free, affordable and it works, enough said. In fact, Avon’s entire Bug Guard collection is great (I just go with the towelettes for travel for convenience). Avon recently added an Anti-Itch spray to the collection and while I haven’t had the chance to use it (I haven’t been bitten yet!), I’m not traveling to a mosquito friendly destination (ahem Hamptons) without it. SIDE NOTE: If you enjoy games as much as I do, Avon also launched a super fun bug-squating game, BugBash on their Facebook page (get competitive with it and challenge a friend).

4. SPF!!!

Aveeno Hydrosport Sunscreen Spray with SPF 50 ($8.99) and Aveeno Positively Radiant SPF 30 ($16) – SPF is a must… always (unless you’re hanging out inside). The spray is great for in and out of the house, it’s no-fuss, no-mess and super lightweight! The Daily Moizturizer is great for my face and my favorite from the Aveeno line; it’s not oily, chalky or too heavy, which I prefer for summer. I’m so happy with it.

5. Flat Iron

 T3 SinglePass Compact Flat Iron ($79) – Don’t let it’s compact, travel-friendly size fool you, this flat iron does it all; it smoothes out my hair and gets rid of frizz while straightening it, and it makes strands super shiny and modelesque. I have a thick head of long, curly hair and this baby heats up quick and delivers! It’s my weekend warrior!

6. Defrizz Oil

Pureology Precious Oil ($40) and Sally Herschberger Hyper Hydration Super Argan Serum ($15) – Now you may think two oils is overkill. And it probably is if I didn’t have completely normal hair until the humidity comes out (then I’m a walking Monica from the TV show Friends in those island episodes —you know what the reference). Pureology’s oil is perfect for anyone with colored hair. It’s Green Seal certified and contains 100% biodegradable ingredients in a paraban, sulfate and silicone free formula. I was introduced to this product by Wendy Belanger, Pureology Global Artistic Director and owner of Influence Salon in Calgary, Canada,who described it with something for everyone: “Sunflower seed oil is great for softness and color protection, coconut oil helps with elasticity, olive oil gives shine, and jojoba oil imparts moisture.” I like it because my ends need more moisture and shine since getting an ombre, it fights humidity and I even use a little extra to weigh down my hair intentionally to give my long tresses some definition in their wave without looking greasy.  Sally Herschberger’s serum is great on dry hair and when my hair starts to frizz during the day. And unlike most oils it doesn’t leave that oily residue on my hands after application. The results are instant and it removes the frizz and smoothes out my strays without weighing down my hair. I like to think of it as my touch-up oil.

7. Hair UV Protectant

Living Proof Restore Revitalizing Spray ($26)— I think of this as SPF for my hair! Complete with UV protectant to shelf my strands from sun and heat damage from my flat iron. It’s super lightweight, making it an easy addition to my hair routine. Now if only Living Proof would just make it in travel size!

8. Lip Balm (with a little something something)

It Cosmetics Vitality Lip Flush 4-in-1 Reviver ($20)-  I use shade Je Ne Sais Quoi (which is a light pink), although I want to try the other shades (Love Story and Pretty Women). I’m fascinated by how something that doesn’t have a tinted stick, miraculously stains my lips, does all the work of an anti-aging lip treatment and chapstick and is paraben-free! Packed with antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, and E, acai, green tea, and white tea and combining the anti-aging superpowers of plum oil, cherry oil, shea butter, aloe, and jojoba, these ingredients all work together to condition, and nourish lips, and keep them from looking and getting wrinkly. And it feels oh so good on!

9. Self-Tanner

Beautisol Face Self-Tanner Need I Glow More? ($23)- fake it until you make it! I may not be getting a sun tan, (and probably attacking you with my SPF spray) but that doesn’t mean I don’t want to come back from a beach filled weekend, looking like I did! Beautisol is the first to create a skin-type-specific face self-tanning lotion and I use it all the time and have never broken out or it looks freakishly natural. Anyone thats ever complimented me on my tan will attest that I say, “it’s fake” with a little pride.

10. Cynthia Rowley Band-Aids

Cynthia Rowley for Band-Aid: Beach Sport Kit ($6.99) – While I have to admit the original collection of Cynthia Rowley for Band-Aid brand was my favorite, it wasn’t nearly as summery and colorful as the duos latest collection. The designer recently collaborated with Band-Aid s on a vibrant beach-friendly set that includes 20 qty waterproof bandages, and 4 qty Neosporin single use packets, wrapped in a plastic resealable case to keep the sand out. Great for anyone on the go and in your beach bag just in case someone gets a boo-boo. If I owned a car, you would fine a set in my glove-compartment.

 Disclaimer: These products have been given to me over the years for post consideration. Most have already been featured and are now part of my list of must-haves. Pretty Connected was under no obligation to write this review.

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