It has been a while since we've reviewed anything from IMAN Cosmetics, but her limited edition Mediterranean Holiday Collection Compact $19.99 is a welcome-back we're just loving. Inside a large, rectangular, black, plastic compact with interior mirror are ten terrific products that give you everything you need for a complete, face-in-a-case, look.  IMAN is a style icon (as is her husband, David Bowie) who really knows what works for women of all ages and complexions. These kits flatter all types of complexions, from very deep, to light blondes and ruddy redheads. The colors are sheer and easily blended. Ours, called "St. Tropez," (photo) features metallic, bronzed colors that will keep your Summer glow, going all year long (Cote D'Azure has more vibrant colors).  We loved the four slightly shimmery, powder eye shadows (golden peach, soft mauve, brown, and rosed-brown) two lip colors (rusted red, and medium peach), two silky lip glosses (deep chocolate and shimmery-peachy pink), a sheer, cream highlighter in soft, golden bronze, and a powder trio featuring a deep, medium and light bronze (wear each separately or swoosh together for a lovely, golden glow). The products are of high quality and lovely to wear (and you even get mini applicators for eyes, lips and blush). A great kit at a great price!

 

BEAUTY HELPERS TO GET AND GIVE:

Eyes are the window to the soul, they say, and beautifully curled eyelashes help make your eyes look even better. Sephora puts curves in all the right places with the Sephora Full Size Lash Curler $16.00. This one has no-slip grips and high-tech rubber grip pads. Lashes look naturally curled and perfectly shaped, easily and gently. For more curl and definition, lower lashes need curl too. The Sephora Lower Lash Curler $14.00 is a half-sized, more curved version of the full lash curler, specifically designed to get to those hard-to-reach, delicate, lower lashes. You will be amazed at how much of an eye-framing difference curling your top and bottom lashes, makes. And, for even more definition and curl, there is a Detail Lash Curler $14.00 . It is also half-sized, but slightly less bent over, to catch the lashes at the very outer corner that are hard (actually, impossible) to reach with a traditional curler. Depending upon how much mascara you add after you’ve used these tools, you can transform your lashes in depth, density and degree from natural, to thick, to seemingly "faux." These pro-style tools are  well designed and well priced, so everyone can afford them. Good value, and good to enhance your holiday look. TIP: makeup tools make nice "stocking stuffers" for your fashionista friends!

 Mini has maxi appeal when it comes to traveling with great makeup tools. For the holidays, Laura Mercier glams up a trio of  tiny, "must-have" makeup brushes in a Micro Mini Brush Set $45.00 featuring a bright red, faux lizard case securely holding three purse-sized brushes for eyes, cheeks, and a pull-apart lip brush. The size is small, but the quality is evident in the lush, soft, beautifully-shaped brush heads and shiny, black, wooden handles. The magnetic closure and mirror makes this a mighty mini kit you'll want for yourself, and offer as a special gift for special people this holiday season.

When I learned that there was a fitness program that lets you learn sexy, Latin dances from 4 world champions and lose weight and tone up, I couldn't wait to review it, and I wasn't disappointed! Core Rhythms Starter DVD Set ( $14.95 + $9.95 shipping+$14.95 if you do not want to return it), an aerobic exercise program based on Latin dance moves. I had seen this on a television infomercial, but when I heard that readers had actually lost weight and inches with this, I had to try it.  The exercise leaders are two very toned and sexy women (Jaana Kunitz and Julia Powers), who teach you three core moves, and put  them together in a long and short (20 min) routine performed to pulsating, Latin rhythms. If you do these right, you'll sweat for sure, and you will lose weight and tone up. Some may find the workout challenging if they're not already in shape, but while the workouts are real work (and why else would you buy an exercise program?) they are so much fun, you won't mind! They also give you a chance to learn and practice sexy moves in the privacy of your own home, before you get on the dance floor. A real plus is that the DVDs allow you to choose a front or back view of the moves, and there is a good "help" button you can press at any time to have the ladies demonstrate the moves they use. These exercises take just moments to learn, although if you want to look like a dance champion doing them, you'll want to practice, often (and that's not a bad thing, either). The starter kit comes with three videos: a short and a long workout (using samba and meringue moves) and a  "how-to" DVD that shows the ladies with their husbands,  demonstrating how to actually do meringue, samba and rhumba moves. You may not look like a champion dancer when you first start out, but you will burn calories, help to get a toned body, and (hopefully after using the program for a while) have enough confidence to get out there in a slinky dress and actually dance. I think this would make a fantastic gift for singles and couples who would like a unique and effective way to get in shape, learn something new, and have a great time doing it. This is a perfect holiday gift. *"Audition" the first set of 3 DVDs for 30 days, but if you keep it the total cost will be $39.85. You will be sent a new DVD every month for an additional $19.95 plus shipping unless you cancel through a toll free number. The company will cancel promptly upon request. 

Just this past Summer, we were introduced to Whish Shave Crave Shave Cream $32.00 6.7 oz. made just for women. This solid cream in a jar is luxuriously scented with essential oils, and other natural, good-for-your-skin ingredients. We first tried "Almond" and we loved that, but there's also a sassy "Pomegranate," and an invigorating" Lemongrass." So we asked to try the Mini Shave Crave $32.00 which includes 1.60 oz. jars of each!  All feature a mild, glycerin soap that soothes and moisturizes, protecting the surface of your skin from nicks and scrapes (note that these are  good for even sensitive skin).  The scents (pomegranate, lemongrass or sweet almond oil) are fabulous, giving you a spa-like, aromatherapy experience as you perform an otherwise ordinary chore. The pomegranate is an antioxidant that rejuvenates your skin and protects it from free radicals. The lemongrass helps to soothe muscle aches and ease stiff joints while improving muscle and skin tone, and the almond oil is especially beneficial for dry skin. Although these cost more than dime store soap, a little goes a long, long way and think of all the benefits (and compliments on your smooth, soft legs) you'll get (plus they're a lot easier to store in your luggage than aerosol cans). This would make a luxe gift for a sister, a good friend.  Even better, you lather up and apply these luxury shave creams for women with a Whish Body Brush $65.00  featuring a generously-sized head of soft, 100% badger bristles, and a feminine, white, curvy plastic base. For true princesses, the brushes are also available with Swarovski crystals halfway $95.00 to full $170.00.

Everyday Matters $82.95 by Dr. Hauschka Skin Care is an important gift because what you do for your skin, every day, matters! Attractively packaged in a large, cardboard carton with a silky, golden rope handle, are 4 must-have items to begin (or improve) a 3-step skin care routine that is easy to do, and includes instructions for a unique "press and roll" application technique for best results.  You get a 5.1 oz Lavender Bath (applied with the included cotton cloth) to pleasurably relax you and open pores,  1.5 oz Cleansing Cream (a gentle but deep cleanser and also a gentle exfoliator), and a 3.4 oz  Facial Toner that is refreshingly sprayed onto your face and gently pressed onto the skin as well.  These high quality products are created with therapeutic blends of aromas and organics to help you create a sense of well-being along with a sensible and effective skin care routine. We think men will embrace these products as well. Send yourself, or your friends and family into 2007 with better skin and a great outlook each day!

Trish McEvoy's Mini Make-Up Planner $55.00(5 1/2"W x 7 1/2"L x 2) is just one is a trio of terrific and flexible face-in-a-case kits ($48, $58, and $68 for the petite, mini, and large respectively). Inside the black, quilted, zippered case is a ring binder that holds your own, personalized, clear plastic "folders" of makeup that let you literally flip through to see what you need, at a glance. Our  "Mini Make-Up Planner" was stocked with a palette of powdered eye shadows plus a blush, and another had two large square blush/bronzers. The makeup is magnetically held in place on a solid Lucite "page" so we can pop products and colors in an out, in a flash. Even better, we can take out an entire  compact "page" and put it in our purse if we want---how great is that?  Make the system even more flexible by adding additional clear plastic Pages $13.00-$17.00. There is a  handy, mini zippered mesh pouch for lipsticks (we use ours for  jewelry when we travel) and another with a velcro closure, for brushes,  toothbrush & toothpaste, etc.  The other side of the case has a "hidden" compartment for flatter items, and four long pouches held with elastic, to hold makeup brushes (of any size), pencils (ours had lip liners in "Rouge," "Natural Plum" and "Natural), lip glosses (our had the glam: "Pretty" (shimmery deep rose) and "Iced Bronze" (shimmery bronzed rose),  or whatever else you choose. With carry-on airline regulations tighter than ever, you'll want to be sure that you protect your valuable tools and cosmetics in transit. This kit is simply, great. We wonder how we ever traveled without it. This is the gift for special people who love high quality cosmetics & tools. 

The Skin Smoothing Sampler $30.00 by LATHER is an impressive gift for the price. An attractive, lime green cardboard box with a photo in greytones of river rocks on the top, is filled with five 2 oz travel-sizes of LATHER"S best selling body care products. When I see LATHER products in a hotel, I immediately know I'm in a great place. The ones in this sampler are: Hand Crème with Evening Primrose (fabulous, alpha-hydroxy hand treatment formulated from fruits and plant extracts combined with natural moisturizers instantly improve the look and feel of your hands), Lavender & Eucalyptus Foot Crème (lavender, eucaplyptus, sage and arnica stimulate feet, increase circulation, and extracts of seaweed squalene and aloe versa smooth, moisturize and soften dry skin),  Bamboo Lemongrass Foaming Body Scrub (bamboo powder, sea salts, and walnut shells make this cleanser an exfoliator, while essential oils give off a great scent), and two new products:  Bamboo Crème Body Wash with Shea Butter (bamboo, shea, and antioxidants create a slightly foaming, moisturizing cleanser),  and Sofian Lavender Whipped Body Crème (gloriously scented with lavender, moisturizing with shea butter and enriched with antioxidants, it's simply lovely to use). This is a great way to travel with products you know and love (if you're not staying in a quality hotel that features them), and a nice way to pamper someone this holiday season and introduce them to LATHER.
 

While at Spa Magazine's 10th Anniversary Bash at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in New York, this Fall, I became intrigued with the PerfectSense Paraffin systems for spas. These offer easy paraffin treatments for hands and feet, with aromatherapy. I knew I had to review the  PerfectSense Paraffin Hands or Feet Home Kit (approx. $35.00-$45.00).  This is such a great value and so easy to use, you can literally treat yourself  (or four friends) to pro-style hot wax treatments in just minutes, without batteries, electrical wires, microwaves, or anything else, for less than the cost of one salon treatment! Since each treatment is completely sealed for one-use only, you're not going to be exposed to anyone else's fungi, bacteria, dead skin, or other yucky invaders, either. The system is so easy to use, it's nearly a miracle. A "heat pack" hangs on the included, re-useable, plastic holder. Activate it with am aromatherapy packet, and enjoy the soothing steam for the 8-10 minutes it takes to heat paraffin-filled gloves (placed on either side of the pouch) . When the steam, subsides, your treatment is ready! Open the glove (or bootie) now filled with warm, melted paraffin,  and place on your hands or feet. Deep-penetrating, moisturizing heat helps relax achy joints and stiff muscles, and leaves skin soft and supple. The wax slips off your skin quickly and cleanly, leaving you with soft, sexy skin and a new sense of calm. This is a great gift for the entire family and for women and men of all ages. 

 

SUPERB STOCKING STUFFERS:

 Women and men love Essie's super-yummy scented Smoothies  (we can name lots of guys who can't get enough of this lotion, even though they're not the "moisturizing" type.  For the holidays, Essie's Silky Treats $14.99 features a little cardboard "basket" featuring four 2 oz. bottles of Blueberry & Banana, Coconut and Pineapple, Kiwi and Lime, and Pear and Fig. These moisturizing powerhouses are packed with natural emollients and alpha hydroxy acids to keep your skin looking smooth and soft now and especially throughout the dry, winter months. The lotion absorbs so fast all you'll feel is soft, silky skin.  Keep one in your desk, gym bag, purse, and car. Buy a bunch of  "baskets" to give to all those special people. from your hairdresser,  to the receptionist who always holds your calls, and even your husband, whose hands could use a bit of TLC. For a little treat or a great stocking stuffer, Essie Holiday Candies $13.99 are dandy choices that won't deplete your budget, or ruin your diet. The  Red Striped Candy Duo features one bottle each of "Glass Slippers" (white polish with glitter) and "Fishnet Stockings" (universally flattering red), or try the Pink Striped Candy Duo with two of Essie's (and my favorite) colors: "Limo-Scene is a soft, flattering, blush pink and "Ruby Slippers" is a sparkling crimson fused with tons of glamorous glitter. Wear these and show you are ready to shine! These little treats will delight every girl on your gift list, no matter what her age.

The Aromatherapy Candles Travel Set by LATHER $18.00  is more than just a stocking stuffer--it's seven tiny gifts in one. A re-useable, silvery tin (we use ours as a catch-all for tweezers and other little things) holds six sensuously, strongly scented, travel candles about the size of two tea lights, to take with you for scent and atmosphere, wherever you go). Each candle has a different "purpose" (eg. soothing, invigorating, comforting). These are scented with essential oils: peppermint, clove, lavender, milk and honey, lemongrass and brown sugar. Each is distinctive, and wonderful. Perfect for travel, we like substituting one of these in a decorative votive instead of the usual tea lights. They'll burn a long time too, since they're made with a soy based wax that burns for approximately five hours. TIP: place unused open candles in your lingerie drawer to scent it while storing it!

Go Out Gloss Lip Shine and Be Scene Crème Cheek Color  $6.00/each by MARK are terrific treats that virtually everyone can afford, and can't afford to be without! Round black compacts feature huge, multi-faceted "diamonds" on their clear lids. Inside is a sheer, shimmery blush/shimmer for face, or a shimmery gloss for lips. Be Scene Crème Cheek Color is a silky-smooth, cream-to-powder blush that highlights cheeks with dewy shimmer. "Fizz" is a shimmery sheer peachy glow that looks great to accent cheekbones. "Flushed" is a cheery rosed-pink. Go Out Gloss Lip Shine features the same, glitzy compact, but inside you'll see  a large portion of shiny, smooth, fragranced lip gloss (we couldn't quite place the slightly fruity with a hint of herbal scent, but it was nice). This sexy gloss comes in party-ready shimmery berry ("Blush") or a shimmery clear "Champagne." Take these glam compacts out of your makeup bag and heads will turn. Of course, these make fantastic stocking stuffers. Get a bit of flash, for a little cash.

Bath treats are great gifts for everyone from a grandchild, to a grandmother, and gift suggestion we think is not just good for all, but very, very cute, is the Holiday Bath Bubbles $3.00 by Jaqua Girls. Gentle enough for the kids but fun for adults, these puffy plastic pillows I holiday shapes are filled with mildly scented bubble bath gel! The (Santa and Snowman have pearly white gel, a puffy star has red gel infused with red glitter!). These are generously sized-- enough for 6-8 baths. Simply squeeze open the valve that also seals the product inside, and let it flow under the tap until you have just the amount you want of foamy, fun, bubbles. When the bubble gel is all gone, the pillows become little "blow up" ornaments that will add to your holiday decor for years to come. They’re cute, practical, and reviewers agree, a universally appropriate gift to have on hand for any last-minute gift-giving needs and you can’t beat the price.

We would call the Lip Lock Keychain $7.50 by Victoria's Secret a stocking stuffer, but this zip purse in the shape of sexy lips with a see-through front, is so much more. The packaging is an actual change purse  with keychain closure... and that would be cute all on it’s own, but that isn’t all you get for this amazing price. Inside are two mini sized products for your lips: Ours, the hot pink metallic lip purse held  "Very Voluptuous" Lip Plumper (works great) and a Very Sexy Lip Gloss in "Bling" (super-shiny clear gloss infused with holographic, parti colored bits of gloss that is an amazing topcoat, or wear it alone). There’s also another version with a RED lip purse featuring two lip glosses ("Intimate," and "Hot Pants"). Whether you just want a little something to perk up your party outfits, or you grab a bunch of these for party favors and "thank-you" gifts,  or for office grab bag, you’ll win a warm smile when you give these. You can also look like a big shot, and still stick to your holiday budget, too! 

Go Out Gloss $6.00 and Be Scene Creme Cheek Color$6.00 by MARK come in a round, "diamond" studded,  flip top, mirrored compact that are eye catching, festive, and fun to use. This might be cute enough to dub it a "must-have"  as-is, but inside you'll find either a creamy, sheer and slightly shimmer cheek gloss/highlighter/blush in "Fizz" (peachy champagne) or "Flushed" (rose), or a shimmery, super-shiny lip gloss in "Blush," (pink), "Champagne" (shimmery clear) or "Merlot" (deep berry). You'll want to take these out and re-touch your face, constantly, just for the "wow" factor. Of course, they make fantastic stocking stuffers and little "thank-you" gifts, which is why we've put them in this section. Get a bunch, before they're gone!

Sephora Fresh Gloss $7.00 has a great, minty scent and loads of shine. It’s clear, mini-sized for purse or pocket, and we like it alone, or  slicked over a dark lipstick. Every woman will want at least one, but we think it would be especially nice to give to a younger girl who isn’t quite ready for color, but who longer for lip gloss.  Sephora Ultra Shine Lip Gloss $15.00 does have color--23 shades to be exact in palettes of pink, brown, or purples. Reviewers like a shimmery sheer brown that seemed to be scented like grape soda, or cola, depending upon who tried it. You can mix and match these or wear them solo, for endless possibilities. Lip glosses can boost your mood, so give a happy thought to friends, with Ultra Shine

 

See  previous "What Works" Beauty, Cosmetics, and Fashion Review columns, at the "What Works Archives " Advice Sisters Enews

Looking for something to satisfy your inner "wild child?" or for a teen? Streekers $8.95 are a great choice. These lip-gloss type sponge-tipped wanded tubes color your hair blue, pink, ultra violet, purple, red, yellow or green. Be daring and add a streak (or two, or three or more). The color will wash out, you can even use your brush after the Streekers color dries, along with styling gel or hair spray. Have a blast with a bold look and still be ready for work the next day as the color washes out when you shampoo!  These add zip to any party look, and they'll help you attract attention. Wear your company, school, or team colors -- watch heads, turn. These are cute stocking stuffers for hard-to-shop-for teens, too. Even little girls can enjoy these since they’re safe and totally of-the-moment. Your gift of Streekers are truly smile-producing fun-in-a-bottle.

 

FESTIVE FRAGRANCES FOR THE HOLIDAYS, GIFT-GIVING, AND BEYOND

Last Spring, we reviewed a quartet of very unusual fragrances, from one of the world's leading designers, Giorgio Armani. His Privé Collection $185 per 1.7-oz. bottle was actually created for private use, and to share with a circle of friends, But of course, you know that great things rarely stay a secret, and Armani released the fragrances for sale to the public. Now there's a 5th fragrance to add to the original, fab four: Cuir Améthyste $185 1.7-oz  This scent is not really clearly defined as for men or for women,, it's truly a bewitching, unisex scent that will mix with the wearer's own body chemistry to create a fragrance that's as unique as the individual.  The first sense you'll get is reminiscent of the leather in a fine car, created by a combo of coriander, original rose with a crystalline sparkle, and Calabrian bergamot. Warm and amber-y exotics such as benzoin, labdanum, and Bourbon vanilla spice up the fragrance just a bit. Genuine leather warms and softens as you wear it, and so does Cuir Améthyste.  By drydown, this unisex fragrances strike a perfect balance of  freshness  and spice, male and female, strength and wear-ability. This unisex fragrance is not only a work of (perfumer's) art, the packaging is a mini work of art you will want to display where everyone can pick it up and admire it. An Eastern aesthetic has been a long-time influence on Armani, and each of the  Privé Collection fragrances arrive in a black, wood box, into which is nestled a glass-lined dark, African Kotibe wood rectangle, with a genuine semi-precious stone perched atop the spray diffuser (Cuir Améthyste features an amethyst, associated with wisdom and humility).  The bottle remind me of mini Brancusi sculptures. Each fragrance in the Privé Collection is supposed to evoke a memory or a mood. For those who love fine things, Cuir Améthyste will be a joy to own, and a treasured gift to give or receive. 

 

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The Sexy Best Atomizer set $24.00 by Victoria's Secret is a very special fragrance set...one you'll want for yourself, and for gift-giving. It's a great value, too! The re-useable, shiny, cardboard presentation box in hot pink metallic and black logo box,  ties closed with a thick, silky, hot pink satin ribbon. Inside is the real prize:  5 Eau De Parfum mini-spray vials of Victoria’s Secret’s top selling fragrances in .07 oz sizes (enough for a weekend away).. What makes this set truly special, however, is the included, silvery carrying case, no larger than a pack of gum,  that lets you carry your scent, elegantly. It's so pretty to use,  studded at the top with starry pink crystals, and featuring the Victoria's Secret name in elegant hot pink lettering, Simply pull off the top, drop a vial of Victoria's Secret fragrance into the case, and you're good to go. The set includes the new, Dream Angels Desire, plus Dream Angels Heavenly, Very Sexy for Her, So in Love, and Body by Victoria. If you're a fan of  Victoria's Secret fragrances, you love variety, and like to take scent with you. this is a great choice and a great gift. 

 

Ultra-elegant, always glamorous Dior celebrates the unique uplifting spirit of Christmas with a limited edition fragrance: Midnight Charm Eau de Parfum $65.00 1.7 fl. oz.. This fragrance dazzles-- inside, and out. The round bottle (photo) has a shiny silver overlay with small and large "cut-out" holes to give you a peek of the gorgeous, amethyst glass bottle underneath. The round bottom blossoms out into a top that looks a bit like an inverted, rounded, pyramid, crowned with a round, clear plastic "ball."  it reminds me of a precious, heirloom, tree ornament. That's probably the idea, since this fragrance has been described as an "'Eau de Noel."  When I first tried the scent, my first reaction was simply "wow!"  It's that unique.  feminine and impressive. It starts with a frozen green top note that feels fresh, but not as light as those of Summer fragrances. Top notes start out green and crisp, with holly leaves, frosted bergamot, and a fruity accent is sparkling and fusing lychee pulp. The middle is more floral, but still fresh: red jasmine, snow drop and white rose, warmed with a finish of iced chestnut, cashmere musk, and golden amber. The overall effect of this unique and interesting blend is a bright, significant but not too heavy "floriental that is long lasting and perfectly balanced--neither too spicy and heavy, or too floral. This is the type of fragrance that showcases the perfumer's art and translates a bit differently to each woman who wears it, but we are sure it will have everyone asking "what is that amazing scent you are wearing?"   The outside box is a soft violet and pink with gold lettering--what a dreamy gift this would make for a special woman!

BeautiControl advertises it's Unmistakable Fragrance as a Fragrance Gel $30.00 2 fl. oz, even though ours looked pretty much like a liquid, but no matter: "Unmistakable" is a fragrance you can't forget, and don't want to! The mixture of Italian lime, icy pear, almond, peony and just a hint of vanilla, creates a beautiful, unusual blend that is a not-easily defined "floriental." It's substantial, but soft. It's fresh, but feminine. It's subtle, but still sexy. Dab a bit on your pulse points and you'll discover a little goes a long way. You'll find people you don't even know stopping you to ask: "what is that fragrance?" There's also a luxurious Body Creme $55.00 6.2 oz that has a "whipped" formula that's light and luscious.  We like the generously- sized jar, too. If you're looking for an unique scent,  and a memorable, gift, this is a good choice. 

Bobbi Brown's modern approach to fragrance is delightful: BATH Eau de Toilette $40.00 1 fl. oz, looks simple in it's nearly pure white box, and an  uncluttered bottle with a silvery top and a sophisticatedly-spare, apothecary-style label with "BATH" embossed in white, on it. But, as with all masters of fashion, what seems simple, is often more sophisticated and complex.  Inside the bottle is a clean, fresh scent with  notes of Water Hyacinth, Neroli, Orange Flower, White Lily, Aromatic Sage and Sandalwood with hints of Patchouli. The effect really is "clean," agree reviewers...a bit like a pure bath bar, but it's more interesting than that.  I love everything Bobbi Brown does, and her fragrances always make you stand out from the rest of the crowd, so I really wanted to try this one myself. I feel a burst of brightness as I spray, which quickly dries down to a definite "Ivory" type scent, but it's much more than that....your body chemistry will quickly warm up the florals (in my case) and spices, making this into an unusual blend that's all your own. This light  fragrance you can wear with anything, any time, and still feel "right."  No body cleanser can make you smell as delightful as Bobbi Brown BATH, can! 

Fragrance is supposed to be your most intimate, fashion accessory. but when Avon and Swarovski work together, you get a luxurious,, sophisticated fashion statement: Crystal Aura Eau de Parfum $26.00 1.7 fl. oz  by Avon debuts this month. You wear it as a fragrance, and also, as an accessory!  A striking, slim rectangle of clear glass is topped with a violet "crystal" top. Around the neck of the bottle is a sparkling, rectangular, crystal pendant that you can wear on a chain around your neck, hang from your jeans, or just admire. Inside,  Crystal Aura is a modern, fruity floral that's more substantial than the light fruits of Summer to wear with heavier fabrics, but still light enough to be casual.  It's a fresh blend of citrus-y star fruit, womanly amethyst rose and sensual musk and woods. Whether you're looking for a special scent for yourself, or to gift someone with something special, or you just can't decide between splurging on jewelry or fragrance, this is a two in one gift that is bound to please. Fragrance takes another direction entirely with Blue Rush For Her $19.75 1.7 oz eau de toilette (there's one for men, too). A softly-rounded pyramid of glass tapers to a silvery top. Inside, Blue Rush For Her  is categorized as a fresh, watery floral, blending wet amaryllis and blue freesia with a hint of feminine musk and aquatic woods. It's a light scent that will work well on every woman from her teens to adults.  To express the excitement and passion of this fragrance, Avon choose Kristian Alfonso (“Hope Brady”) and Peter Reckell (“Bo Brady”), the star couple of NBC’s #1 daytime drama, “Days of our Lives, to represent the his-and-her fragrances in their advertising campaign.  If you or someone you know loves the soaps, this scent is a perfect match that won't break your budget. 

 

We can't think of a single thing more sinfully fun than the fragrance of pink butter cream frosting, unless it's infused into pink shimmer powder, in a light-as-air cloud of white marabou feathers, topped with a silky pink ribbon, for added glamour! That's exactly what you'll get when you buy the Pink Buttercream Frosting Marabou Feather Shimmer Puff  $20.00from Jaqua. The pink cardboard "hatbox" houses this delectable, delicate, and delightful beauty treat. The fragrance is light, but not so overly sweet it would be too strong for daytime, and the puff is so "girly" it's the sort of thing that elicits squeals of delight from everyone who sees it. The price is so reasonable, you can afford to give one to all your friends.  The photo doesn't do this justice, and take it from the Advice Sisters, plan on getting one for yourself as well as for gifts. You aren't going to be able to resist it once you see (and smell) it!

Last month a new fragrance was launched that we think is the perfect gift for a young lady, especially  if she's one of the 6 million viewers that watch The OC, a  television drama about Orange Country, California. Despite it's modest price, reviewers really liked The OC for Her Eau De Toilette Spray $22.50 1.7 fl. oz  $12.00 0.5 oz., This companion fragrance to The OC For Him (see our men's products in the right hand column) is a light and daytime appropriate scent, encased in a deep pink box and inside, a deep pink bottle. This  light, fresh, fruity floral starts with top and middle notes of mandarin, hibiscus, tuberose, jasmine, freesia, white peach, guava and nectarine, while base notes of white amber, sweet vanilla and clear musk soften the blend at drydown. Although the scent was created to appeal to younger users, it is still sophisticated enough to appeal to adult women. I can easily see a mother and daughter sharing a bottle with no problem.  This is an affordable, attractive, new scent to try (and give).

Everyone wants a better love, but Better Love $90.00 1.7 oz., $40.00 0.5 oz. by June Jacobs  is a new fragrance you'll really fall in love with. We have reviewed June Jacobs skincare in the past and really liked it.  We were eager to see if this new fragrance was as great as the skin care. It is!  Better Love is a unique and sensual fragrance, full of spicy and herbal notes. It starts with Italian bergamot, lemon, and sparkling ripe mandarin but the heart of rose and jasmine, spiced with hot pink pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg is what you really notice. The drydown is a mixture of cedar and sweet cream intertwined with musk and sheer amber. The scent reminds us of some of our favorite Amouage and Montale scents that contain exotic resins. This is also spicy, rich, creamy and exotic, but it is also flirtatious. It will make people want to get close to you for a better sniff...even though the scent is already, assertive. If you're looking for an unusual and unique scent to call your own, this is a great choice. 

 

BOOKS MAKE GOOD FRIENDS:

  I confess: I have been eagerly awaiting the publication of Allure: Confessions of  Beauty Editor by Linda Wells, (Bulfinch 2006) $24.95. I'd like to think that after more than 9 years reviewing makeup and beauty products, I'm the foremost authority on this topic, but Linda Wells, Editor-in-Chief of Allure Magazine, run rings around me. Shehas been on the job for 15 years, and probably knows more about makeup than just about anyone on the planet. The large-format book full of glossy color photos and is something you will enjoy looking at again and again. I like the approach, too: refreshingly honest and fairly personal: Ms. Wells shares her own experiences both positive and negative regarding beauty products.  Her personal comments are present in each introduction in ten sections dealing with everything from hair to skincare, salons to bikini waxing. The Allure-style approach is evident when Ms. Wells is  presenting information. She breakds down every technique into do-able bits, and presents lots of tips (Tricks of the Trade) along with how to get the best "bang for your buck."  I really liked the tips and emergency. I think readers will appreciate the mix. There's something for everyone in this book (although I wish there had been a bit more information directed to women over age 40 and under age 20 and more "regular" models). No matter, this book will be a well-loved "bible of beauty" that should stand the test of time and transcend a lot of fads. It is fun to read, and will be fun to give, and even more fun to receive! 

 Laura Mercier, a superb makeup artist and creator of one of my faves:Laura Mercier Cosmetics, has written a 256-page book called: The New Beauty Secrets: Your Ultimate Guide to a Flawless Face (Atria Books, 2006) $35.00. Inside the covers are a host of the beauty techniques that make the author a favorite of celebrities like Linda Evangelista, Sarah Jessica Parker, Julia Roberts, and Madonna. In fact, the foreword of this glossy, full color, coffee-table-sized book was written by fashionista Sarah Jessica Parker (I attended a cocktail reception in November for the book, hosted by SJP--see my blog and Enews for  the details) and celebs reign throughout the book. Laura Mercier's makeup is of wonderful quality, and designed to help even a neophyte to create pro-style results. The techniques in this book can help you sharpen your skills,  too. The topics cover nearly every facial feature and some body care, peppered with Ms. Mercier's inspirations, faves, and philosophy. The true pleasure of this large, glossy, full-color, coffee-table-type book, however, is its "eye candy" appeal: slick photos of  gorgeous models and celebrities, coupled with feminine, whimsical  illustrations that are guaranteed to motivate you to raise your own glamour quotient a notch. In our celebrity and youth-obsessed society, it's only natural that a beauty book will pack the pages with celebrity content and gloss over the concerns of regular women over a certain age. Not everyone is young, or has the luxury of traveling with a beauty entourage. To Ms. Mercier's credit, there are at least a sprinkling of photos of women who are over age 40 (E.g. Meg Ryan, Madonna, Susan Sarandon and and Julianne Moore). Whether you want a treat for yourself, or you want to spread a bit of holiday joy to someone special this is a great choice.

 . The holiday season can be a lonely time for singles who would like to be in a relationship, but haven't found the right one. The Everything Dating Book 2nd Edition, Meet New People And Find Your Perfect Match! by  Alison Blackman Dunham (Adams Media, 2005) is gift to give yourself, or someone needing a jump-start or a tune-up on their love life. The book isn't full of tricks or surprises (sorry folks, but there really isn't anything new in the universe about how people click, or don't) but you will literally a bit of "everything" you need to help organize, energize, and move forward through a love search and into a true relationship. The information relevant to every age, but it is especially important for anyone over age 30, the newly-single that has been out of the meet market for a while, and even seniors, who are meeting and making new matches later in life. *Did you forget someone's birthday or other special occasion and need an impressive, unique gift, fast? Do you know someone who struggles with the same issues or problems - over and over and over again with a resolution?  I offer private, personal online advice. This is a gift that lasts a lifetime and will never be "re-gifted" Simply provide your recipient's information and I will do the rest! Click Here for details.

 

YOUR HOLIDAY HOME:

Dino Morra is a skincare guru in California, with a "bad boy" vibe reminiscent of magician Chris Angel. His exclusive, Crème Candle $37.50 will also make a statement, and really capture your attention. It is actually two candles in one--a lovely, scented candle to light your days and nights, and (once the wax is melted) it is also a spa- treatment for your skin featuring Morra's Crème formula -- a super-hydrating collagen formula fortified with antioxidants and phyto-minerals. The bennies of this have been appreciated by stars such as Lucy Liu, and Ryan Seacrest. Now you can get both a great candle and this Beverly Hills treatment at home. This Crème Collagen Candle in it's go-with- everything, clear, glass votive, comes in  "Grapefruit" (pink grapefruit with hints of lemon, lime and Mandarin Orange); "Spa Comfort," ( eucalyptus, lemon grass, lavender, Spanish marjoram, sandalwood, tangerine) or "Lavender Vanilla " (Belgium lavender with warm notes of French vanilla). As the candle burns the Crème formula will melt into a pool on top of the candle. Then once the flame is extinguished, apply the melted Crème (with a small spatula or wooden spoon) as an all-over body massage, or directly to problem areas such as elbows, knees and feet.

Candles are the classic way to enhance a holiday mood, and they're always a great gift, especially if you don't know someone's size or interests.  An exclusive line  the Advice Sisters have just been introduced to is Jerome Privé Pour La Maison $19.00 available at Perfumania stores, or at Perfumania.com. These are truly lovely, and quite affordable. The substantial, clear glass votives go with any decor. They contain generously-sized, very nicely scented candles in genuine holiday fragrances that will make you feel "merry and bright" even if you just light one after a hard day at work, for your own enjoyment. The product info told us that these candles have "notes" just as bottled fragrances do (nice to know what is creating the yummy scent you're smelling). We tried "Gingerbread Cookie," a sweet and spicy rust colored candle with top notes suggestive of homemade cookie dough and caramel, with middle notes of gingerbread, cinnamon, and sugar cookie, and bottom notes of white musk, vanilla extract, and tonka beans.T he snappy, spicy scent  really perked up our senses and made us want to sip cider by the fire, or at least take five, and read a book to recharge and refresh.  There's also "Cranberry Garland" and "Festive Fir."

  Letters For Her is a romantic line of aromatherapy products that are inspired by love letters to a young woman (Rachel) in 1943,  discovered in an attic, nearly 60 years later.  You can tell immediately that a product is by Letters For Her  by the light and delicate script "lettering" that adorns every product, along with a cute, "postage stamp" label that usually has a picture of what's in the product, signifying also the region of the world where the original letters came from.  For the holidays, the Holiday Set $36.00 in "Wildflower" reminds us of Provence, in France. It is a great choice not just for your home, but for gifts for all those people you need to thank in a special way.  The set includes a full sized (8 oz) clear coral-tinted Liquid Hand Soap (photo) and Hand Lotion. The hand soap is luxuriously scented with tuberose and ylang ylang essential oils, and the tall, elegant, glass pump bottle is decorated with a coral grosgrain ribbon and a little, round, id tag featuring a wildflower.  The hand lotion is a delicate, opaque coral with the same, romantic, ladylike floral scent and packaging. Both are housed in a delicate, black wire basket, with romantic loops and curls of wire forming the basket, a tall carrying handle separating the two.  This is an impressive gift for not a lot of money and a nice little splurge for yourself.

Set a holiday mood while you remove unwanted or stale odors from the air. It's easy, with the Essential Oil Diffuser $34.00 by Ashley Archer. This diffuser features 15 rattan diffuser reeds that soak up pure essential oils of Ylang Ylang, Clove, Orange & Vanilla Extract, and scent your room for months, around the clock. Simply reverse the rods every few weeks to keep the scent, going strong. Scented oil diffusers give you all the benefits of home scent, without the danger of fire. Since they last a long time, they're economical, and a great gift idea.

What could be cuter than a scented soap in holiday shapes? Some that are holiday-perfect are the triple-milled soap collections, by Gianna Rose.   Reviewers loved the Antique Ornament Soaps $18.00 shaped like antique Christmas  tree ornaments. These are boxed in a pretty red and pink lidded cardboard box stenciled with a paisley design that reminds me of wallpaper from the old West, with "peace, love, joy and celebrate---in French--around the sides of the box."  Inside, 7 small round ivory-colored "ornaments" look amazingly like the real thing, complete with a hint of sparkle. The fragrance is fantastic:  a strong and festive blend of evergreen, pine, sweet fir, cinnamon, vanilla, and clove. Reviewers also ooh-ed and ahhh-ed over the  box of Snowflake Soaps $18.00 Inside tall, square box (similar to the one housing the ornament soaps, but with an intricate snowflake pattern), are four hand soaps in the shape of snowflakes. These lovely, white soaps are scented with a warm blend of vanilla, rosemary, mint and fir--less spicy and more fruity-herbal (one reviewer insisted that it smells like pomegranate, but it's a lovely, uplifting scent everyone will like). TIP: If you think these are too cute to use, pop a few into your sweater or lingerie drawer to make everything smell like the holidays! Both of the soaps are also included with a scented votive, as a  Holiday Tower $54.50, stacked together and tied with a red, grosgrain ribbon and a gift tag.

One of the many Royal Extract products available from Lady Primrose includes a super-elegant, extra tall, Royal Extract Crystal Pedestal Candle $85.00. If you are a romantic, this is the candle of your dreams!  A  beveled cystal gobler nearly a foot tall with a graceful, tulip-shaped bowl, holds a naturally colored, scented candle with a scent for the romantically inclined: golden honey, milk, apple blossom, and woods.  For a less fancy presentation but a luxurious scent at a lower cost, check out the Frosted Snowflake Candle (refill) $32.00 . A gracefully-shaped, large, smooth opalescent blue bowl votive is packed with a scented candle infused with fir balsam and pine, clove, nutmeg and cinnamon plus a cool touch of "frosty" notes.  The effect is cheerful, spicy (I sensed a hint of mint, although it's not listed) and invigorating. This candle is actually made to fit inside a larger, Crystal Urn $290.00 embossed with snowflakes, which we didn't see. However, this 11 oz refill looks lovely on it's own. It will go with virtually every decor and has a generous, 55 hour burn time. We are new fans, and hope to review more Lady Primrose products for you in future columns!

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About The Works Beauty Reviews:  Products reviews are conducted by Alison Blackman Dunham (aka. Advice Sister Alison). In some instances, the review reflects additional opinions of qualified, anonymous reviewers and the term "we" instead of "I" is used in the commentary.  Nobody gets financial compensation for reviewing products, and they are not affiliated with the companies mentioned.  If you have comments about the column, or if you would like to be considered as a reviewer and can pick up products from the New York area,  Email us at: advicesisters@advicesisters.net