Friday, December 21, 2007

Style A While - Smile A While


It was Little Orphan Annie who said it best, "You're never fully dressed without a smile." While her wardrobe choices were lacking, the little pixie was right. I believe in this day of pursed lip Olsen twin pictures and the sullen pout of Victoria Beckham we are starting to forget that a smile can do a lot for your "look".

Illustrating my point is Mrs. Becks herself. At some point someone must have told Posh that she had an awful smile. Do a little online search - it is practically impossible to find a picture of that woman smiling. The other (dare I say) girls are looking beautiful - Posh just looks uncomfortable.

So mine is crooked and not as gleaming white as I would like - I think I will work it all the same.

Say cheese!

Air kisses,

Jewels

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Good Stuff: Pond's Clean Sweep Towelettes

We all know the drill - wash your face before going to bed. I have good intentions, really I do, but frankly I don't like splashing water all over the sink and myself in order to remove my makeup at night. Consequently I (gasp!) slept in my makeup for many moons before discovering my little precious gems, Pond's Clean Sweep Cleansing & Make-up Removing Towelettes. Now I can wash my face - allowing me to apply whatever products I am hoping will defy aging - every night! I have pretty dry, sensitive skin and I do not have a problem with the ingredients in these. Actually, there are some soothing and therapeutic additives such as camomile, vitamin e and triple tea antioxidant complex. I love that they are alcohol free. These are available in packs of 15 (for travel) or 30.

Party Girl Tip: Leave a tall glass of water, 2 pain reliever tablets, face wipes and a moisturizer on your nightstand BEFORE you go out. When you come home, it will be little trouble to prepare yourself for a better looking/feeling you when the sun comes up.

Air kisses,

Jewels

PS. What are your best Party Girl Tips?

Monday, December 17, 2007

Meet me in the Alley


I have to throw roses to those girls over at Makeupalley.com. It you haven't heard of it, this is THE place for reviews on probably every beauty product/treatment known to girlykind. I do not buy anything without reading the reviews here first. I also have been known to browse it for ideas as well. I can't sing it praises enough. The only thing that has me stymied is how these ladies all have a code for their skin color; PPP, NC25. (I know I was absent the day they passed those out!) Once I figure out this cryptic code, this will be my home away from home. (Home is eBay, of course.)

Once you there and perusing reviews, check out the Asprin Mask. Probably the cheapest and most effective skin treatment you can find.

Air kisses,

Jewels

Online Auctions, eBay and Holiday Style for Less












eBay Auction Title: "NWT Donna Ricco Dress Size 10 Red New Never Worn!!List Price $158.00 Look your best for le$$"

Now that sounded pretty good to me. I will admit to having an eBay addiction. Not like a little - I mean a big Monkey*-On-My-Back that I affectionately call Paypal. I am in auction recovery, but I am not about to pass up eBay altogether. I have a few tips that I have learned over time.

1. Know your measurements and your size. Sizes vary by manufacturer (and even within the same label - Shelli Segal, I am talking to YOU). I was lucky in the above case as I have repeatedly been a 10 in Donna Ricco.

2. Do not EVER get caught up in the fight for the item. If you set yourself a $ amount, stick with it. In this case, I really wanted to keep the total price under $20.00. I promise, if you miss one item, there will be 10 more around the corner that you want just as badly.

3. Check shipping costs and terms BEFORE you bid. There are some folks out there who gouge for shipping. Some sellers insist on Paypal or refuse to use it. Know the details before you get bid happy.

4. Don't be afraid to ask questions. I will ask for measurements (see #1 - you'd better know yours) or clarification on color, fabric, quality. Asking questions cost you nothing but can save you money and heartache later.

5. Lastly, be prepared for disappointment. This is a toughie. Most sellers will not accept returns, so do your homework and cross your fingers for great fit.

I have had many flops. They all seem small in comparison to the great deals that I get now and again. My best eBay successes have been with formal wear. I won that Donna Ricco dress and had it on my doorstep for only $18.99.

(*While he is IN a Monkey suit, this is my husband and not the aforementioned monkey, Paypal.)

Happy Shopping & Air Kisses,

Jewels

Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Best of Stila for a STEAL!

This might just be news to me, but as I was Christmas shopping (for others, I swear!) at Ulta I came across a great deal in the Stila display. It is called The Best of Stila Set and it comes in a cute, pink round box. I was planning on buying a convertible eye liner anyway. These are all FULL SIZE items!

The box says this is a 120.50 value for only 40.00. Could YOU pass is up?



Here is me on Saturday night using these products.

Set Includes:

Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer - 01
Kitten Eye Shadow
Convertible Eye Color in Onyx
Convertible Color Lip/Cheek in Peony
Lip Glaze in Brown Sugar

What are you waiting for?

Air kisses,

Jewels