Sundari all Natural Makeup

We have long loved Sundari, the ayurvedic skincare line co-founded by our favorite supe, Christy Turlington. We dig the holistic approach to skin, the super healthy ingredients, the chic packaging, and, of course, the results. Our latest obsessions are the Neem & Avocado Balancing Moisturizer (perfect for this crazy dry weather) and the Gotu Kola & Indian Asparagus Mask. Who knew asparagus was an anti-inflammatory? THE DETAILS: $52 (moisturizer), $100 (mask); www.sundari.com

Ingredients: Acerola

ACEROLA/(as-uh-roh-luh)/ n./ 1. The cherrylike fruit of the small tree Malpighia glabra, common to the West Indies and adjacent areas; / n./ 2. Also known as the Barbados cherry, this emerging superfruit is said to be 20 to 30 times richer in vitamin C than the orange and is becoming prevalent in the beauty industry for its ability to even skin tone, boost collagen and elastin levels, and defend against the damaging effects of free radicals, which can age skin prematurely, e.g., “Acai is so three years ago. To maintain a youthful appearance and your trendsetting status, get your antioxidant rush from acerola.”

Try it: Nude Skincare’s Advanced Smoothing Complex, $90, www.sephora.com.

Beauty Blunders

Mistakes that are easy to make, easy to fix




I'm constantly looking at people's faces--when I'm walking down the street, sitting in a restaurant, and especially when I'm at a makeup counter. I'm inspired when I see women who've figured out what works for them, and I get satisfaction out of helping women who've missed the mark with makeup. Some of the missteps are the result of trying a trend; others are simply mistakes. Here are a few of the most common problems I see, and pointers on how to apply makeup to make sure you're always a beauty "do."

The Trend: High-Intensity Eye Makeup Colors
The blunder: Crayon-bright matching shadow and liner that results in color overkill


Why it happens: You think that you can't go wrong as long as colors match, but it's really not a flattering look.


The solution: Choose a muted tone for the lid and a deeper tone for liner. For example, if you're itching to wear green, choose a pale mint shadow and pair it with a hunter green liner to create a flattering contrast.

The Trend: Neutral, Glossy Lips for a Plumped-Up Pout
The blunder: Applying a too-pale lip color that looks milky and washed out

Why it happens: You choose a lipstick that's lighter than your natural coloring in an attempt to make your lips look fuller.

The solution: To create the appearance of plump lips, use a shade that matches or is one shade deeper than your lips. Try a high-shine gloss-it reflects light from lips and creates the appearance of fullness.

The Trend: The Healthy, Suntanned Look All Year-Round
The blunder: A fake tan that's more Day-Glo orange than sun kissed

Why it happens: Your bronzer has too much orange in it.

The solution: For a glow that might actually fool people into thinking that you went on vacation, choose a brownish-red bronzer; these are the tones of naturally tanned skin.

The Trend: The "Fresh-Faced" Look
The blunder: Chalky-looking matte makeup that makes skin look pasty

Why it happens: Many women mistakenly think that translucent powder is invisible. It actually has pinky-gray undertones that leave your complexion pasty and ashy.

The solution: For the most natural look, choose a sheer, finely milled powder with pale yellow undertones.

The Blunder: Ultrathick and Clumpy Tarantula-Like Lashes
Why it happens: You want thick and luxurious-looking lashes, so you apply one heavy coat of mascara.

The solution: To create volume, apply several thin coats. Before you start, be sure to wipe excess mascara off the brush with a tissue. When applying mascara, always work from the base of lashes out to the tips.

The Blunder: Creased and Crepey Eye Shadow
Why it happens: You used moisturizer on your eyelids or you applied foundation to create a base.

The solution: Nix the eye cream on lids during the day. The best way to prime eyelids is with a light dusting of face powder. This creates a smooth, oil-free surface that allows eye makeup to adhere.

The Blunder: Feathery Lipstick

Why it happens: Using a greasy lip balm before lipstick is a big culprit.

The solution: Keep lipstick in place by creating a barrier around lips with lip liner. After applying lipstick, line lips with a shade that matches your natural lip color for the most flattering effect.

Makeup Inspiration - Valentino

For Valentino's spring haute couture show, makeup artist Pat McGrath created "a very strong, smoky eye in four different colors" that played off hues found in the designer's fashion collection. McGrath said she wanted the eyes to be expressive.

Also at Valentino, hairstylist Orlando Pita explained the idea was to concoct a topknot that's "really clean." He opted to put the knot way up on each model's head, rather than at the nape of her neck, for a more modern feeling.

Make-up Trend: Soft Eyeliner

GET THE LOOK: Don’t think that eyeliner has to be fierce—it can add just the right touch of glamour, as it did for Molly Sims or Kareena Kapoor. in the past I have created this look very easily. Recently, for Molly Sims, Makeup artist Stevi Christine, of Warren-Tricomi L.A., created this look using white shimmer on the inner corners of the eye and a silvery-gray on the lid. “I accentuated her eyes by adding a navy-black kohl eyeliner on the top and lined the rim of the inside,” says Christine.

INSIDER TRICK: Adds Christine, “Make sure you keep your eyeliner in your clutch because you will want to touch it up when you hit the ladies’ room!” You’ll want to re-trace the line near the inner corner, which can dissipate because of the proximity to eye moisture.

BUY ONLINE NOW: Jillian Dempsey for Avon Kohl liner, $6
Rec: Make Up For Ever Aqua Eyes in Star Black

Makeup Inspiration - Jean Paul Gauthier's Spring Collection

Makeup artist Tom Pecheux explained the inspiration for the look of the Jean Paul Gaultier spring show came from numerous sources, including German singer Klaus Nomi and the graphics used for France's public radio and television provider, ORTF, from the Sixties and Seventies.

"We ended up going with lines and things like that," explained Pecheux, who focused on eyes with black liner.

Odile Gilbert, meanwhile, created the hairstyles — which combined square buns with curvilinear details around models' faces — for the show.

Lip Smacking Good

Give your lips their due with these luscious balms

1. M.A.C - LIP CONDITIONER
This emollient balm contains almond oil, shea butter, avocado extract, wheat germ oil and vitamins A and E and works wonders used alone or under lipstick. The petroleum base helps seal in moisture to protect lips from the environment.

2. CLARINS - COLOUR QUENCH LIP BALM
Adds a dash of fruity colour to your lips while moisturising them. This balm imparts a dewy look that’s sure to turn heads.

3. LANCÔME - AQUA FUSION LÈVRES
A glossy lip balm that combines hydration with a glossy, glamorous sheen to give you lips that are soft, supple and luscious.

4. BOURJOIS - NIGHT LIP BALM
A tinted lip balm that restores lips while you sleep. Packed with emollient oils and repairing agents, this creamy balm nourishes and hydrates the morning.

5. MOLTEN BROWN - WONDER LIPS BOOSTER
This intensive night time treatment works to plump up lip volume while filling out fine lines. Gives added definition.

6. ELIZABETH ARDEN - CERAMIDE PLUMP PERFECT LIP MOISTURE CREAM SFP 30
Contains potent line plumpers to increase volume and help reduce the appearance of vertical lines for smoother, fuller-looking lips.

7. ESTÉE LAUDER - TENDER LIP BALM SPF 15
This lip treatment conditions, soothes and protects lips with a sheer and lightweight balm-like texture. A hint of sheer, wearable color and soft shine gives a healthy glow.

To Prime or not to Prime?

To prime or not to prime is frequently up for debate among beauty devotees: Is taking that extra step before applying foundation really necessary? As far as we’re concerned, the answer is yes—especially when the product in question is Fresh’s new Rose FreshFace Primer. Like most other prep treatments, the lightweight formula is intended to diminish the appearance of imperfections so makeup can go on silky smooth, but this one comes with benefits. Porphyridium cruentum is a smart micro-algae that helps balance natural moisture levels for an even complexion, while rosewater cools the skin and cucumber extracts soothe and calm. Suddenly, adding another product to your face-painting routine feels like a bonus, rather than a chore.

Makeup Trends - Green Eye Makeup

GET THE LOOK: Hollywood's all about the green trend when it comes to hybrids and carbon footprints. Give smoky eyes a twist by combining shades of emerald on her lids for a sultry, evening look.
INSIDER TRICK: To prevent your shadow from fading or creasing, prime your lids with cream-to-powder foundation.
BUY ONLINE NOW: MAC eye shadow in Vivid, $14.50

Calvin Klein Rewinds to the Glory Days...

Remember those controversial Calvin Klein commercials from the early '80s featuring Brooke Shields? The heroin chic ads with Kate Moss from the late '90s? How about last year's commercial for Calvin Klein Secret Obsession starring Eva Mendes, which was censored by the networks? It looks like the brand is returning to the usual tricks. WWD reports the new commercial for Calvin Klein Jeans "is so provocative it initially was banned from even late-night cable TV." Conveniently, the Steven Meisel creation will now be the "main attraction" when the company's new e-commerce site debuts on Friday.

The models spotted rolling around and appearing in the provocative print ads are some of the industry’s hottest stars and freshest new faces including Anna Jagodzinska, Anna Selezneva, Natasha Poly, Edita Vilkeviciute, Danny Schwarz, Vladimir Ivanov, Carson Parker and new face Mikus Lasmanis.

You can take a peek at the "banned" commercial below, but don't expect to see anything racier than what you'd find on your run-of-the-mill MTV reality show.

Calvin Klein is working on an edited version of the commercial that will air on cable, while outside the U.S., countries such as Italy, France, Spain and Germany will show the uncensored version. The print campaign, which features still shots from the commercial, will appear in March issues of magazines. The campaign will also include outdoor billboards and LED screens, with the latter version set to launch on Sunset Boulevard. Hopefully, for drivers’ sakes, the screens will show the edited version.

Spring Collection 2009 - Jean Paul Gauthier

Sharp lines and rapturous curves — they comprise both calligraphy and couture. So perhaps it makes sense that Jean Paul Gaultier, a master at working a theme, connected the dots. The result was a collection that was often beautiful, even though multiple subplots weakened the core message.

Where once Gaultier might have had his way with feathers and embroideries, here he ornamented the clothes with bold graceful strokes, swirling florid lines around the seductive, leg-baring slash of a cocktail dress or the border of a sweeping white gown. The script shtick proved intrinsic to construction as in a black-and-white lace dress that also appeared to have been inspired by cathedral arches. Countering such feminine curvature, Gaultier offered plenty of the his-for-her persuasion inspired not only by the strict side of artistic penmanship but by Klaus Nomi, the cultish German opera singer who died of AIDS in 1983. Gaultier had the performer’s exaggerated V-shaped tuxedo in mind when designing his own suitings, including the sharp-shouldered smoking that opened the show.

Nor did Gaultier stop with the contrasts there. Rather, he worked a good-girl-bad-girl motif, most obviously in a single item: a terrific black-and-white dress, angelic in front and a bit devilish in back. Otherwise, the bad-girl burlesque routine grew tiresome. As for yet another motif, the toreador, it offered some winners, including a spectacular chain mail jacket. As a collection, all of this made for too much going on, with no one message carrying the day, as if Gaultier were uncharacteristically unsure of his first instincts. That said, women wear clothes one by one, and Gaultier delivered his share of stars.

Hottest Goods Du Jour

1. DKNY - RED DELICIOUS: THE SECOND BITE
After the launch of Be Delicious, DKNY introduces a second bite of temptation with this sultry, exotic fragrance that tantalises and leaves you smelling irresistible.

2. LANCÔME - VIRTUOSE BLACK CARAT
A luscious mascara that combines metallic effects to create voluminous curves and add a hint of drama to your peepers.

3. CHAMBOR - WHITENING GEL MASK
For damaged skin that is dull or rough, this mask gently repairs and replenishes your skin making it smooth and radiant.

4. M.A.C - M.A.C FOR MANISH ARORA MAKEUP, GIRL ABOUT TOWN FABULOUS FUCHSIA LIPSTICK
Its Manish mania with the latest funky, vibrant collection from M.A.C designed by the style guru himself. This exotic fuchsia lipstick makes a dramatic statement for the day or evening.

5. CHANEL - CHRISTMAS 2008 MAKE-UP COLLECTION, POUDRE PRÉCIEUSE OR
Soft, sparkling loose powder with a hint of gold creates a magical effect. Use it to adorn the face or décolleté for a dazzling glow.

6. L’ORÉAL PROFESSIONNEL - LISS ULTIME REFLEXIUM HUILE THERMO-LISSANTE
This smoothing oil instantly transforms hair into a perfectly defined, beautiful drape with lasting control and shine.

Cor Silver Soap & U*tique

Being selected as one of the first 50 products to launch with U*tique, the luxury beauty vending machine set to debut next month, is definitely noteworthy. But for Cor Silver Soap, which is formulated with silica-infused nano-silver (and costs $125 per amber-colored bar), being a status symbol is nothing new. Known for an ability to effectively cleanse, even out skin tone, and reduce the appearance of sun spots and pore size, Cor’s all-natural formula includes four different types of collagen and utilizes the power of silver to block acne-causing bacteria while expediting cell repair. It also helps protect your skin from photoaging—making the answer “no,” in case you were wondering if there is anything this soap can’t do.

Makeup Trends - Lush Lashes

GET THE LOOK: Celebrity makeup artist Linda Hay calls the combination of a strong, defined brow, individual lashes and berry stain on the lips “super striking”.
INSIDER TRICK: To create the thick-lash look, Hay used “as many short individual lashes as possible on both the top and bottom lashlines. I then applied a very fine line of Victoria’s Secret Glitter Eyeliner in Licorice and liberal quantities of High Definition mascara from Victoria’s Secret.”
BUY ONLINE NOW: Victoria’s Secret High Definition mascara, $12

Ingredients: Burdock...The Root Of The Problem

BURDOCK ROOT/(bur-dok root)/n./ 1. Any root from a group of biennial thistle plants native to Europe and Asia in the genus Arctium that possesses broad leaves and coarse, prickly white or purple heads; /n./ 2. Used for centuries as an effective blood purifier, burdock root oil is rich in phytosterols and essential fatty acids and has been known to improve hair growth, luster, and body by removing excess sebum and build-up, e.g., “Get back to your roots—burdock root, that is—for a healthy scalp and strong hair that shines.”

Try it: Aveda Scalp Benefits Balancing Shampoo With Burdock Root, $13, www.aveda.com.

Drew Barrymore Puckers Up And Kicks It Old School

Speaking of angsty, grunge lip colors, we figured today would be a good day to post a tear from the Drew Barrymore spread in Pop’s 20th anniversary issue. Clad in various nineties staples including a surplus knit hat, a plaid flannel dress layered with an oversize sweater, and the requisite sneakers with tights, Drew reminds us of our own youth, when dark lips and even darker eyeliner flattered a nascent love for well-worn vintage hoodies (paired with hip-slung, baggy jeans, obviously). Makeup artist Gucci Westman chose CoverGirl to revive the style, which isn’t too far off from the mass brand tubes circa 1995 that we were putting in our pockets, er, purchasing, before leaving the Rite Aid in suburbia.

Brazil Fashion week...

It's always fashion week somewhere, and last week it was Brazil's turn. Sao Paulo fashion week, autumn/winter 2009 wrapped up over the weekend and featured runway shows from 38 designers.

Brazil is a fascinating emerging fashion market, with a furiously original design scene delivering creative and intelligent haute and ready to wear.

The quality and originality of the local designers like Alexandre Herchcovitch, Andre Lima, Samuel Cirnansck and label Animale is a refreshing break from the well-known labels of Paris and Milan.

Animale's complex knits, for instance, combine toughness and lightness. Sleeves are tight and opaque, while loose stitching leaves the chest almost uncovered. 2nd Floor's way with sequins delivers a subtle shimmer in a whole new way while Andre Lima's gowns were red-carpet-ready in a very tropical Brazilian way. He should expect J Lo in the showroom any day.

Ingredients: Green Tea

GREEN TEA/(Green Tee)/n./ 1. The unfermented leaves of a magnolia-related evergreen tree with the botanical name Camellia sinensis; /n./ 2. An ancient herbal drink rich in polyphenols, known for its high antioxidant levels and a reported ability to fight free radicals and prevent photo aging caused by the sun, e.g., “So much more than a cathartic experience, sipping a hot cup of green tea can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”

Try It: 100% Pure Peach Pigmented Natural Concealer with green tea, $20, www.qvc.com

Simple Solutions to Seven Social Blunders Part 2

4. You forget someone’s name you’ve met before.
This is a common problem, so Post recommends just being honest and laughing about it. “If someone’s upset about it, assure the person that it’s not an insult at all, that it’s just a problem for you,” she says. But definitely make sure he knows how sorry you are and if the problem persists, do some work on your part to become more adept at remembering names.

5. One of your coworkers has been fired or laid off.
In today’s economy, this situation is becoming more common. Many times, workers are asked to leave immediately, creating an uncomfortable-for-everyone scenario where someone has to pack up her belongings in front of others. Post advises never to underestimate the comforting power of the words “I’m sorry” in any awkward situation, including in the workplace. “I think it’s perfectly acceptable to approach her and say, ‘I just heard, I’m so sorry. Is there anything I can do to help?’”

However, she warns that this is definitely not the time to offer advice like “buck up,” “your resume is great,” or “don’t worry, there are tons of jobs out there.” Says Post, “Sometimes, we have to just let people be in the moment and feel the sadness and confusion at hand. Life isn’t about being happy all the time and we need to learn how to get through the sad times and support people experiencing them.”

6. Someone gives you a gift, but you didn’t buy her one.
Christmas, Hanukah, Valentine’s Day, Easter, Halloween … the marketers of the world have done a good job of making us feel compelled to give gifts on even the most insignificant of holidays. So how do we recover when someone hands us a beautifully-wrapped package and we don’t have anything for her in return? “Gift giving isn’t reciprocal—it doesn’t mean you have to give one back if you get one,” says Post. After all, the sentiment should be about finding something special for someone and wanting to give it to her because we know she’ll enjoy and appreciate it. Post advises that we focus on accepting the gift with grace, thank the person, and then move on. “You can do something for her another time, but don’t make up a white lie,” she says. “That’s what people expect to hear when they know that someone hasn’t thought of them.”

7. An invited guest shows up at your dinner party with an uninvited guest.
As much as we’d like to club someone over the head for causing us to defrost another steak and scooch another place setting into our beautifully-set table, Post recommends playing the good host in this situation by accommodating the unexpected person and making him feel as welcome as possible. Generally, the uninvited person has no idea that the invited guest has committed a faux pas, so there’s no point in making things uncomfortable by making a fuss about it or denying the person access. Post does recommend, however, that at a different time, you let your invited guest know that in the future, you’d appreciate a call in advance so that you’re able to accurately prepare food and set enough places for everyone.

The truth is, we can clear the hurdle of almost any awkward situation by starting with an apology (if the situation warrants one) and keeping three principles in mind when trying to decide what to do—consideration, honesty, and respect. Says Post, “If these are at the forefront of your actions, you’ll be headed down the right path.” Of course, try telling that to the not-pregnant woman you bought a baby gift for.

Makeup Trends - Violet-Rimmed Eyes

GET THE LOOK: Katie Holmes shows us that it's time to embrace purple around the eyes—without looking like a boxer... and boy is she a knock-out!
INSIDER TRICK: Clear eyes and cover-up are key with this look. Find a good peach-toned concealer to camouflage dark circles and use a few drops of Visine to eliminate any redness.
BUY ONLINE NOW: Cargo eyeshadow in Persia, $10.50

Beauty Sleep: Murad Targets Sleep-Deprived Beauties

Sure, everyone’s heard of getting beauty sleep, but what about getting beauty products to improve sleep?

Murad, the El Segundo, Calif.-based skin care brand that’s helped bring ingredients such as pomegranate to consumers’ attention, is carving out a niche for beauty solutions to the nightmare of no sleep. A duo of products launching next month, Sleep Reform Serum at $97 for 1 oz. and Sleep Reform Dietary Supplements at $49.50 for 60 tablets, is Murad’s introduction to the snooze business, which could eventually expand to an array of recommended sleep remedies within Murad’s skin care portfolio.

Simple Solutions to Seven Social Blunders Part 1

We’ve all heard the expression “kids say the darndest things,” but what about adults? Who among us hasn’t delivered (or been on the receiving end) of a zinger we wish we could take back? Let’s face it, awkward situations happen; we can either choose to deal with them like the compassionate adults we aspire to be, or we can keep on doing the same things that most of us do in those awkward situations—avert our eyes, mumble something unintelligible, and perhaps cough extra loud in an attempt to take the focus off the ridiculously idiotic thing we just said or did. This year, I’m choosing the adult route. And with a little help from Lizzie Post at the Emily Post Institute, I’ll be ready the next time I find myself in any of these precarious situations.

1. You ask someone who’s not pregnant when she’s due.
Ouch. Nothing good can come from trying to explain why you might have thought such a thing (“But your sweater’s so baggy!”), so don’t even try to dig yourself out of this hole because everything you say will make it worse. Post advises that we immediately apologize for our mistake in judgment and move on to another topic ASAP. “You need to move quickly [in engaging her in a new discussion], because otherwise her mind may linger on the fact that you think she looks fat enough to be mistaken for a pregnant woman,” Post says. And nobody wants that.

One more recommendation: never, ever ask that question again unless you’re absolutely, positively sure that the person you’re asking is going to have a baby. If there’s any doubt at all, Post recommends waiting to ask until she shares her good news. Then we can ask when she’s due.

2. You’re unsure whether to friend—or delete—someone on a social networking site.
Sites like Facebook, MySpace, and LinkedIn have made the boundaries between friend, business associate, and acquaintance a little murky. Post recommends establishing a strategy before joining any site, or if you’re already a member, slightly tweaking your existing strategy. “Make a decision before getting involved about how far you’re going to go. Do you want to separate work [contacts] from personal?” Post says she keeps them separate, opting to keep professional contacts on LinkedIn versus on a site like Facebook, where your contacts are likely to see personal status updates and photos that may not be appropriate for the type of relationship you have. “It’s okay for you to have boundaries and for your boundaries to be different from someone else’s,” she says. “Just explain how yours are different.”

She also says it’s perfectly fine to ignore a friend request from someone you don’t really know that well. After all, that person you sat next to in eighth grade algebra doesn’t need to be your friend on Facebook, unless you really still are friends. Post says it’s okay to go through your profiles and delete people you feel aren’t friends. But do we tell the delete-ees? “It’s really your call whether you communicate with them or not,” she says. If you didn’t know someone that well in the first place, you probably don’t owe him or her an explanation. “But if you delete yourself from a site, I’d send a message to everyone so they know that it wasn’t about them personally, but about your decision not to use the site.”

3. Someone has food in her teeth, something on her pants, etc.
You know the feeling. You check the mirror in the work bathroom and spy a stray piece of spinach in your teeth from lunch—which was three hours ago, before the meeting you just left that you talked and smiled your way through. Why didn’t anyone tell you? Post says whether we tell depends on the person and the environment and isn’t necessarily about whether they’re a stranger or a friend. “You want to do it as discretely as possible, without saying it in front of others to embarrass the person further.” In a meeting environment, there may not be a moment to bring it up without others hearing. (Though in that situation, I’d personally appreciate a discrete post-it from a trusted coworker.) But Post says if you’re one-on-one with someone you know, absolutely let the person know. And if you encounter a stranger in a place where you can tell her without others hearing—like a restaurant bathroom, for example—telling her is a good idea (and also good karma).

SAG 2009: Kate's Hair

This year at the 15th Annual SAG Awards, Kate Winslet’s glamorous low bun and side swept bang as seen on the red carpet was created exclusively by Frederic Fekkai stylist Renato Campora using Fekkai products.

Kate Winslet’s Hairstyle: A low bun that is soft and elegant with a touch of modernity.How to get Kate Winslet’s hair style: Apply FEKKAI MORE ALL DAY DENSITY MOUSSE to wet hair for added volume. On the bottom portion only apply FEKKAI COIFF MAGNIFIQUE to ends for a smooth blowout and to protect hair from the heat of styling tools. Using the FEKKAI EXTRA LARGE ROUND BRUSH blow dry hair and part on the right side.

Once completely dry, use a one inch curling iron throughout hair to create tousled movement with dimension. Apply FEKKAI TECHNICIAN GLAZE to ends working it through with fingers for texture that is not too heavy. Tease the top of the head ever so slightly to create a touch of height. Next pull hair back into a low ponytail. Create a loose braid and twist it around to form a bun. Secure with pins. Making a braid helps to keep the bun from appearing to severe and gives it the soft modern touch.

THE PRODUCTS ALL BY FEKKAI:

Fekkai All Day Density Mousse ($25)
Fekkai Coiff Magnifique ($23)
Fekkai Extra Large Round Brush ($65)
Fekkai Technician Glaze ($20)
Fekkai Sheer Hold Hair Spray ($23)

Producers Guild Awards: Freida Pinto

Freida Pinto looks just peachy at the 2009 Producers Guild Awards at The Hollywood Palladium on Saturday (January 24) in Los Angeles.

Her latest film, Slumdog Millionaire, picked up top honors at the ceremony, beating out Milk, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, The Dark Knight and Frost/Nixon. (Christian Colson picked up the Producers Guild of America Darryl F. Zanuck Producer of the Year Award.) Looks like Slumdog is well on its way to picking up Best Picture at the Oscars!

Producers Guild Awards: Natalie Portman

Natalie Portman arrives at the 2009 Producers Guild Awards at The Hollywood Palladium on Saturday (January 24) in Los Angeles.

SAG: Evan Rachel Wood

Evan Rachel Wood continues to step up her fashion game. She strutted the red carpet tonight in a one-shoulder teal gown by Monique Lhuillier that complements her ginger hair perfectly. The bird brooch adds individuality and her antique earrings add old-school glamor. Not to be ignored are her fuchsia clutch and Sergio Rossi shoes. Kudos to her stylist!!!

While on the red carpet, Evan showed off her ankle tattoo, inspired by Pink Floyd’s “Shine On You Crazy Diamond.”

SAG: Angelina Jolie

Angelina stuck to her red carpet standby Max Azria — a simple, monochrome chic dress — but this time, instead of a neutral, chose a moody slate blue. Her blue was complemented by Brad's pocket square of the same color. She's become known for her red-carpet beauty uniform of long hair, cat-eye liner, and pale lipstick. It always looks good. This time around, Angelina has a soft, curly updo and a slight variation on her standby makeup look. (Longer lashes, and what looks like a lipstick-free smile.)

SAG: Freida Pinto

Many of you loved Freida Pinto's Golden Globes look, so I'm eager to read your thoughts on her SAG Awards style. Slumdog Millionaire's rising star seems beautiful, gracious, and clearly excited to be in Hollywood right now. Taking inspiration from her periwinkle chiffon gown, Pinto wears cool lilac shadow with a touch of warm bronze on her crease, creating a look that is very unexpected and modern. Since it's all about the eyes for the young actress, she keeps her cheeks and lips more subdued, and wears a classic French twist. The 24-year-old actress finished off her look with a Roger Viver clutch and Martin Katz jewels.

SAG: Olivia Wilde

Olivia Wilde looks modern and marvelous in her deep v-neck white Art Deco dress. A graphic silver detailing at the waist adds some punch to her simple frock. For accessories, the actress adorned herself with a gold bangle, dangly earrings, blinging ring, and matching clutch.

Hair Recovery

Winter weather, dry radiator heat, and curly hair make quite the frustrating combo–Beauty Junkie speaks from experience. It’s like we’re dealing with a whole new hair texture when the temps drop (this on the heels of months battling humidity and frizz). Just when we were on the verge of losing it thanks to one broken strand too many, a package arrived from the lovely folks over at Redken with their new Fresh Curls Curl Recovery. This rinse-out mask can be used weekly or daily depending on your hair so that it can infuse moisture rich coconut oil, proteins to repair fibers, and Elastapol (which combines conditioning agents, a styling polymer, and a frizz shield). THE DETAILS: $15, www.redken.com

Youth in a Bottle

Beauty Junkie sometimes looks to the young folks for new products. And we figure that if American Eagle is good enough for little J, S, and R. Bils, we’re sold. And the best part is that the venerable youth brand’s Aerie f.i.t. body products are the most affordable.

Ingredients: Brewer's Yeast

BREWER’S YEAST/ (Bru-erz Yeest)/ n. / 1. A type of fungus formally known as Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which is frequently used to brew beer, bake certain breads, and as a nutritional supplement in its inactive form; / n./ 2. A non-leavening agent that provides the body with vitamin B, proteins, and minerals, and helps to regulate the production of sebum produced by the skin, maintaining a healthy pH 5 level and keeping acne at bay, e.g., “A tasty topping for popcorn, brewer’s yeast can also put the cap on breakouts by balancing oily skin.”

Try it: Biologique Recherche Masque Vivant, $66, www.paullabrecque.com

Beauty Counter blog

Ingredients: Rhodiola

RHODIOLA/(row-dee-oh-la)/n./ 1. An adaptogenic herb that grows at high altitudes in the arctic areas of Europe and Asia; /n./ 2. Also known as arctic root or golden root, rhodiola is linked to longevity and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries in Russia and Scandinavian countries as a remedy for fatigue, poor attention span, and decreased memory, and to firm and reenergize skin, e.g., “Frequently used as a powerful, memory-enhancing supplement, rhodiola also corrects the visible signs of aging for skin that is truly unforgettable.”

Try it: Origins Youthtopia Age-Correcting Serum with Rhodiola, $50, www.origins.com
Beauty Counter blog

To Bronze or not to Bronze...

From moisturizer to powder to gel, here's a rundown of get-the-glow goodies.

1. Tinted moisturizer
Tinted moisturizer offers no-commitment glow and moisture in one, plus SPF protection in most cases. Go a shade deeper than one you'd ordinarily use, such as medium if you have a fair complexion and so on. The super sheer quality will give you just a hint of colour.

Products to try: Dermalogica Sheer Moisture SPF 15 ($53, www.dermalogica.ca); DuWop Revolution Face SPF 15 ($30, www.sephora.com); or Cover Girl Advance Radiance Age-Defying Sheer Moisturizing Makeup SPF 15 ($12.99, drugstores).

2. Moisturizers with a bit of self-tanner
These popular hybrids are goof-proof routes to a natural-looking colour. The low DHA content (2 per cent or lower) as well as regular exfoliation make streaks pretty much impossible. Try Jergens Natural Glow Face Daily Moisturizer ($9.99), which comes in three shades, or Evian Affinity Holiday Skin Moisturiser ($25, www.evianaffinity.ca). For sun protection too, look for Olay Touch of Sun Daily UV Facial Moisturizer SPF 15 ($19.99).

3. Self-tanner
Of course, if you want to make a safe colour commitment, self-tanner for the face is your answer. Try Yves Rocher Lift Effect Sunless Tanning Care ($12.50, Yves Rocher boutiques; www.yvesrocher.ca), which delivers an instant cooling effect as well as wrinkle smoothing, plus colour in an hour; Clarins Sheer Bronze Self Tanning Hydrating Gel for Face ($28, www.clarins.com) with antioxidants develops colour in under two hours; or Neutrogena Build-A-Tan Face SPF 15 ($12.99, drugstores), which lets you customize the intensity.

4. Powder
The news with powder formats this season is matte, which is terrific for oily skin. Try N.Y.C. Matte Bronzer ($3.99, drugstores); Physician's Formula Baked Pyramid Matte Bronzer ($19.99, drugstores); or Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Soft Matte Bronzer ($40, department stores).

5. Gel and liquid
Sheer gel formulas are good for dry skin. Try Stila Sun Gel ($24, Holt Renfrew; www.sephora.com), Laura Mercier Bronzing Gel ($30, Holt Renfrew; www.sephora.com) or Clinique True Bronze Bronzing Gel for Face ($18.50, department stores; www.sephora.com). Liquids also offer a really natural look because they sink into skin rather than sit on top. As well, you can mix in moisturizer or foundation to customize a shade. Try Lancôme Star Bronzer liquid highlighter ($31, department stores; www.sephora.com) or Origins Sunny Disposition Liquid Bronzer ($25, select Bay stores).

Good-to-glow application tips:
1. Make gentle exfoliation a regular part of your cleansing regimen to ensure even colour, whatever medium you choose.


2. Bronzer that is too dark makes skin look muddy. The lighter your skin, the lighter gold your shade should be. The darker your skin, the more copper your shade should be. Thankfully, finding the right hue is easier now because corresponding skin tones are often indicated on the packaging, as is the case with L'Oreal Paris Glam Bronze Pressed Powder ($13.95, drugstores), Guerlain Terracotta Light Sheer Bronzing Powder ($44, Guerlain boutiques; select Bay stores) and YSL Poudre de Soleil SPF 10, ($58, Holt Renfrew).

3. Using a powder? Start with an all-over dusting of translucent powder so the bronzer goes on evenly. Dip a powder or blush brush into bronzer, tap bristle tips against a tissue or the back of your other hand, then sweep across the tops of cheeks, bridge of the nose, and on your temples, with the barest bit on the chin.

4. Going with a gel or liquid? Give your moisturizer time to sink into bare skin, then apply gel or liquid bronze sparingly with fingertips.

5. Bright pink or deep rose blush on the apples of cheeks over bronzer mimics the rosy just-out-of-the-sun glow. Try Benefit Dallas ($34, select Bay stores; www.sephora.com), a warm rose hue that looks good on a range of complexions; Benefit Benetint ($28) cheek stain before bronzer is also a great-for-everyone flush.

6. Using tinted moisturizer or moisturizer with self-tanner? Highlight smooth cheekbones with shimmery CARGO Beach Blush in Cable Beach or Echo Beach ($26, select Bay stores; www.sephora.com).

Now that you're a self-bronzing expert, feel free to continue after winter wanes -- a glowing, seemingly sunkissed complexion is always welcome, whatever the season.

Bombay Sapphire: Freida Pinto

“Slumdog Millionaire.” Two of the best things to come out of this film are Freida Pinto and Dev Patel ( I loved him in Skins). They are destined for great things.

Freida was featured in the latest issue of Arena Magazine. You will be surprised to learn that this was her first ever acting job.

“I was so lucky. As it’s an all-Indian cast, Danny Boyle wanted people who had no acting experience or training. He wanted to see anyone and everyone. So I auditioned for one scene where Latika meets Dev’s character, Jamal, again for the first time in years and makes him go away-what a bitch-and I just thought, well, I’ve given it my best shot. For 6 months I continued to audition. So rigorous. It was like going to acting school, and I was never sure what was happening. And then I got the call that said, “You are Latika, so get ready!” “The best moment ever.”

Freida was already a fan of director Danny Boyle. It’s amazing that she was able to work alongside one of her heroes.

“I used to adore Danny Boyle films, truly. I did a film course at St. Xavier’s College in Mumbai. We studied Trainspotting-yes, I did understand the accents, thank you! I loved The Beach, and also watched Sunshine and Millions. He can do anything: a horror flick, a children’s film, a Sci-Fi flick, anything.”

“Honestly, if Slumdog Millionaire was to be described in Danny Boyle terms, it would be a bit of Trainspotting, the romance from A life less Ordinary and the tension of 28 days later, all bundled together into this beautifully written, dynamic movie.”

Ingredients: Rice Milk

Rice Milk Does A Complexion Good

RICE MILK/(Rahys milk)/n./ 1. The grain milk processed from the starchy seeds of an annual marsh grass typically cultivated in warm climates and used for food; /n./ 2. The proteins and lipids in rice milk encourage moisture retention and cell renewal in skin, leading to a clearer and softer complexion, e.g., “A sweet solution for lactose-intolerant cereal addicts, rice milk is also a miracle worker for rough, dehydrated skin.”

Try it: Carita Rice Cream Cleanser, $49, www.caritadirect.com.
Beauty Counter blog

Why women love make-up

Ever wondered why women love make-up? Well, the answer lies in their brain, say Japanese scientists, who found that women anticipate a rush of anticipation and optimism as they prepare to apply make-up.

The findings are based on two years of research by cosmetics giant Kanebo.

The company’s ‘Cosmetics, Beauty and Brain Science’ project determined that there are distinct cognitive activities involved in a woman’s perception of her face with and without make-up.

The researchers used a brain scanner and monitored activity in the caudate nucleus of the brain and found that when a woman sees her own face without make-up, she anticipates how she will eventually appear to others and a ‘reward system’ is activated, releasing dopamine to give sensations of pleasure.

“We know from previous research that when this area of the brain is activated we can derive pleasure from certain activities,” the Telegraph quoted Keishi Saruwatari, of Kanebo’s laboratories, as saying.

“We interpret that as meaning that when a woman looks at her face she is imagining how she will look when she has applied her make-up.

“There is a mixture of expectation, encouragement and ambition,” he said. “Make-up contributes to building relationships with others and feelings of pleasure in women,” Saruwatari added. (ANI)

The Face of Dolce & Gabbana’s New Cosmetic Line: Scarlett Johansson

Stefano Gabbana said "We see makeup as another thing for women, like a dress. We worked on the makeup line like we work on a clothing collection — you can change makeup like you can change your clothes, depending on your mood."

Ingredients: Cocoa Beans

COCOA BEANS/(koh-koh beenz)/n./ 1. The seeds from the pineapple-sized fruit of the Theobroma cacao tree, indigenous to equatorial regions, particularly South America, Africa, and Indonesia; /n./ 2. A known antioxidant, cocoa beans also consist of almost 50 percent cocoa butter, which is rich in unsaturated fatty acids to nourish and protect the skin; /n./ 3. High in anandamide, a neurotransmitter produced naturally in the brain that induces euphoria and relaxes muscles, cocoa beans are also thought to generate certain “feel-good” effects, e.g., “Boasting ultra-moisturizing and relaxing properties for your skin and your senses, cocoa beans make it A-OK to give in to your chocolate cravings.”

Try it: Laura Mercier Chocolate Truffle Soufflé Body Crème, $55, www.lauramercier.com.
Beauty Counter blog

Michelle Obama's hairstylist: Scores development deal for reality show.

Former Chicagoan Johnny Wright has styled the first lady's coif for the Democratic National Convention, her upcoming appearance on the cover of Vogue magazine and other occasions. He has signed a deal with 44 Blue, which produces such reality shows as Style Network's "Split Ends" and A&E's "L.A. Gang Unit."

44 Blue executive vp Stephanie Drachkovitch said she discovered Wright while searching for a reality host.

"There aren't many people of color doing makeover and beauty shows," she said. "We figured there's got to be somebody out there with a mainstream clientele, but brings a different point of view."

Enter Wright, who moved to Los Angeles recently and also has worked on Vivica A. Fox, Rebecca Gayheart, Lauren London and Candace Bushnell, among others. Drachkovitch said she was impressed with the hairstylist's personality before she knew his Obama connection.

"We fell in love with him before we knew," she said. "There's a lot of hairstylists out there who do celebrities, but they can't center a show."

Drachkovitch soon will shop her pitch to cable networks as a docusoap or a makeover series. The well-timed Obama connection doesn't hurt.

"She has certainly emerged as a style icon," Drachkovitch said of the first lady. "She has everyday beauty mixed with elegance. It certainly raises (Wright's) profile."

Johnny met the first lady by chance and as he puts it "It kind of happened on a whim, and I’ve been doing her hair now for a year. My agent out in New York booked me for her Ebony magazine shoot, and she liked it so much that she had her people book me.

You know, I’ve been doing hair since I was 12 years old and I never thought that I would be in that type of world. Before this, I didn’t do anything about politics. I look at it as a blessing, because I pay attention much more now. I feel like I’m much more educated on how things go just from being with her and following the campaign.

Zirh's Green Effort at Sephora

Zirh is going green, with a new product range called Zirh Natural.

The men’s grooming range, which is set to launch exclusively at Sephora in March, is a line of eight items the company claims are free of parabens, sulfates, pthalates, petrochemicals, fragrances and synthetic dyes.

The lack of these ingredients, according to Brian Robinson, president of Zirh Holdings LLC, gives the line its natural positioning, and the idea is to bolster the green product segment in the men’s prestige marketplace — especially at the LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton-owned retailer.

Isabel Toledo designs First Lady's Dress

Michelle Obama looks particularly chic today in a pale yellow gown by designer Isabel Toledo.

President Obama: "Hope Over Fear"

Barack Obama became the 44th president of the United States on Tuesday afternoon, banishing forever more than 200 years of history during which the office passed from white hands to white hands and promising a new era of “hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.”


What an amazing inaugural address....
Khush