NEW Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate

Post by Anny Deirmenjian

Although suitable for all skin types (and ages), for someone with extremely sensitive skin, I found the Midnight Recovery Concentrate by Kiehl’s to be a miracle product. Considering my skin is prone to break outs, which can be caused by anything from change of season, water temperature to switching moisturizers, I was apprehensive but decided to give it a try anyway.

After cleansing, I applied 2 drops (2-3 drops is the recommended dosage) of the concentrate to my face and noticed it immediately absorbed effortlessly into skin (make sure to evenly distribute the formula, and pat into skin, do not rub). The next morning, my skin felt tighter, softer, and more hydrated; my pores appeared smaller and the best part – no breakouts! Not only is the scent of lavender and geranium wonderful and relaxing, this nourishing, paraben-free elixir consists of a complete blend of botanical oils (lipids) and natural essential oils (those important Omegas).  They help improve the skin – rejuvenating and hydrating while you

Pretty Connected Backstage at Alexandre Herchcovitch

Post by Melissa Udoff

Inspired by the new Eastern European woman (from countries like The Republic of Georgia), hair stylist Rolando Beauchamp for Bumble and bumble, used buns, braids, and headscarves in bold colors to bring designer Alexandre Herchovitch’s vision to life.  “Alexandre was deeply influenced by director Sergev Parajanov and his film ‘The Color of Pomegranates’. Parajanov was highly controversial and was even jailed for a time in the ‘70’s,” noted Beauchamp.

Using Bumble and bumble, Beauchamp prepared locks with ‘White Hair Powder’.  He first sectioned hair from ear to ear and used the back section to create a bun.  On the side sections he braided random, small sections of hair and secured them with a small elastic being sure to slightly pull on the side of the braids to create a more textured look.  Some braids were left to hang and others were tucked into the bun.  Non-braided sections were flat ironed.  The whole look was secured with ‘Does It All’ for hold, and then adorned with a colorful scarf.

*Makeup by Lead Stylist Philippe Chansel for M.A.C

NYFW Retreat – Robert Verdi’s Luxe Lounge

I love New York Fashion Week (NYFW) — the people watching, the clothes, the makeup/hair, the backstage passes, and all around fabulousness.  However it does have it’s down side — the weather was cold and icy, and it felt like every show was miles apart.  Everyone assumes NYFW = Bryant Park, but many of the shows were held at alternate venues including Milk Studios, Chelsea Art Museum, The Altman Building, and Exit Art.  Not a fun trek in your Manolo’s.  You’re stuck waiting for a cab in the freezing cold with all the hustle and bustle for a fifteen-minute show.  Don’t get me wrong, it’s worth every minute, exhausting yes, but when I received an invitation to Robert Verdi’s 2010 Fashion Retreat, I was not about to pass up the opportunity.

Robert Verdi’s Luxe Lounge was beyond my expectations. The style icon was not only charismatic, and full of smiles, but also the most fabulous host.  He thought of everything a girl needed to relax, and escape from all the running around.  From healthy snacks and juices by Blue Print Cleanse, to manicures by Ginger + Liz Nail Polish, to blowouts by Phyto, the haven pampered guests from

Pretty Connected Backstage at 3.1 Phillip Lim

Post by Melissa Udoff

“Uptown Debbie Harry” served as the inspiration for Phillip Lim at the designer’s 3.1 Phillip Lim Fall/Winter 2010 Collection. “This is a youthful, rebellious look that exudes a strong sense of confidence.  Energy radiates within the girls through their makeup with eyes that have a bit of a rock and roll feel,” said designer Phillip Lim.  Unlike the infamous Mrs. Harry, this Debbie is not exactly the leather-clad, hard-edged girl of a Blondie video.  She has a look that’s classic yet modern, polished but with a hints of rebellion.  She’s definitely got an edge but it’s more unexpected.

HAIR: Lead Stylist Odile Gilbert for PHYTO

Taking inspiration from this altered state of Debbie, famed hairstylist Odile Gilbert, created a look that was both refined yet Rock & Roll.  Long, voluminous waves had just enough fluff and feather to invoke the spirit of Ms. Harry.  Using all Phyto products Gilbert applied Intense Volume Mousse and created volume by blowdrying hair upside down.   She then used a curling iron to create soft waves and finished with Volume Actif Hair Spray for hold, and #7 Hydrating Cream to seal the ends.

MAKEUP: Lead Stylist Lisa Butler for NARS Cosmetics

“This look has many layers,” said NARS Cosmetic’s lead artist Lisa Butler. “The eyes are punchy and edgy while the skin was kept healthy and glowing. The lips are a soft, sheer pink for the elegant punk-rock princess style that Phillip was looking for.”  NARS Cosmetics accomplished their goal, keeping the models looking youthful and glowing with light lips but captured the edge in the eyes with a smokier look.

Here’s how to get the look:

FACE

  • Riviera Multiple
  • Douceur Blush (NEW for Fall 2010); try Lovejoy or Madly Blush for a similar effect
  • Luxor Multiple

EYES

  • Abyssinia Single Eyeshadow
  • Nymphea Single Eyeshadow
  • Coconut Grove Single Eyeshadow (NEW for Fall 2010); try Bali Single Eyeshadow for a similar effect
  • London Eyeliner Pencil

LIPS

  • Bangkok Pure Matte Lipstick (NEW for Fall 2010); try Sex Machine Velvet Matte Lip Pencil for a similar effect

NAILS: Lead Stylist Angi Wingle used CND Nail Polish

Angi Wingle completed the refined rocker look on nails with a French manicure using Creamy Cameo and Gold Chrome tips.