Make Way, Kiddies, for the Magical World of Disney Fragrance

Why not?  Over the years, Disney has made its way into the hearts of every red-blooded American boy and girl in the world.  So why not secure their spot in the hearts of every beauty and/or fragrance addicted man and woman in the world too, right? 

Disney isn't proposing we blindly accept their bid into the world of fragrance and beauty by name alone, either. They loaded substance and, dare I say it, magic, into their new creation.  My co-workers (some with highly discriminating taste I might add) and I are loving these new items.  Seriously, I just washed my hands with the Liquid Hand Soap and am having to stop every few seconds as I write this post to breathe in the scent still present on my hands. More on that in a minute, though.

The first scent in a new line of exclusive, high-end fragrance products arrived in Disney Stores nationwide the first week of June. Inspired by Disney’s most timeless and beloved characters and stories, the scents were created in conjunction with some of the world’s leading fragrance houses, perfumers and an award-winning design team.  Each promises to capture the Disney magic in a new way.  Three new fragrances will be released throughout the year starting with Imagination (launched in June) followed by Magic in July and ending with Pixie Dust in the fall.

"The power of fragrance is truly magical – it can evoke memories and convey dreams and aspirations. Disney's rich heritage and most beloved characters also have that same allure", says Jim Fielding, President of Disney Stores Worldwide. "With the launch of Disney Store's own fragrance collection, we're touching all of the senses for the first time in a uniquely Disney way."

As hinted above I had the distinct pleasure of getting my hands on some of these items early on. Imagination, the signature fragrance used throughout the newly designed Disney Store, is described as an enchanted forest of sequoia trees, cool moss and green leaves. Inspired by the trees that line the route of the magical path within the new stores, the fragrance gives the sense of being in an enchanted forest. It's a timeless scent inspired by nature that instills a feeling of natural calm, allowing the imagination to soar.

My personal take on Imagination is that it reminds me lovingly of Dolce + Gabbana's Light Blue and Bond No. 9's Scent of Peace.  Fans of those scents will want to bask in the aromas of Imagination.  The candle fills the room with its pleasingly fresh, relaxing scent. The liquid soap and the body lotion are both long-wearing in scent, though I have to say the packaging of these two items leaves a bit to be desired (a bit cheap looking ... shhhhh it doesn't matter, it's what's inside that counts!). 

Imagination products are available as home fragrances, including candles and room scents, and in the liquid hand soap and body lotion.  They are available in Disney Store locations nationwide as of June 2011 and are moderately priced between $12.50 and $19.50.  Let me tell you, the Imagination candle alone is well worth this gorgeous scent at under $20 for approximately 50 hours of burn time!  Be sure to experience the fragrance next time you're shopping Disney Stores.



A   peek   at   what's   to   come   ...

Magic, an unforgettable blend of icy blue mint, rich chocolate and invigorating sea spray, epitomizes the adventure of Disney and all that is Mickey Mouse. Along with Imagination, its inspiration comes from the outside world to give it a refreshing sense of nature. Magic is the freedom of children playing outdoors; it's a breeze of fresh, cool, minty air, green grass, clean woods and a surprise of chocolate.  Magic home fragrances, candles and room scents will launch in stores in July 2011.

Pixie Dust, a shimmering scent of citrus sorbet, candied fruits and summer rain, is the fragrance inspired by Tinker Bell. It's the fragrance one could imagine floating through the air as Tinker Bell showers the earth with her Pixie Dust, causing nature to blossom. Pixie Dust captures Tinker Bell's personality perfectly – it charms with a shimmering sweetness yet it also has a subtle hint of sassiness that we love about this beloved Disney character. Pixie Dust comes as a range of personal products including Eau de Toilette, Body Mist and Body Lotion, available in all Disney Store locations in Fall 2011. Gift sets with body glitter, a roll on Eau de Toilette and lip gloss will also be available.


For more information or to purchase these delicious products, please visit Disney Stores nationwide or contact them by telephone at (866) 902-2798.


images: Disney / photo credit: Stuart Ramson

Mother's Day Gifts of Beauty

One of the things I love about gifting with beauty is it truly is a gift that keeps on giving.  And each time the recipient uses that item, it reminds them of the one who gave it.  I find that's especially true when the giver takes the likes and desires of the recipient in mind.  What I mean by that, for instance, is if your mom has been complaining about itchy, dry, rough skin on her upper arms and you know she also enjoys citrus, a verbena scented body scrub would make such a special gift. Right? Of course, right.

With that in mind, here are a few products I can recommend to you for gifting, each with its own special properties.

POMEGA5 ROSE SYSTEM
Have a mom who loves flowers, perhaps even the traditional and lovely fragrance of roses?  I promise you, you cannot go wrong with Pomega5's Rose System.  Readers already know Pomega5 is one of my absolute most favorite skincare brand out there.  Based on using the highly coveted pomegranate seed oil, this is a family run company that takes time to create high quality, gorgeous, effective products, often receiving inspiration for their products from their extensive home garden.  There's not been a single item I've been even the slightest bit disappointed in. Everything I've tried I've loved, cherished and delighted in. Each product contains its very own special properties and each smells so delicious you can't wait to use them. I truly believe in this brand!

While 60% of us buy flowers for our moms every year, this year we can give her roses through the sure-to-make-her-feel-good Rose System that’s actually good for her. Pomega5’s Rose System makes you feel calm and refreshed, and the pure, organic ingredients will help regenerate skin to its youthful and bright complexion. Available exclusively direct from Pomega5.  $135 for the set.

Includes:

Bulgarian Rose Moisturizing Beauty Bar (120 g)

Daily Revitalizing Concentrate (30 ampoules)

Bois de Rose Velvet Hydrating Cream (50 ml)

AMALA HYDRATE SPA VALISE
Amala Hydrate Spa Valise Set replenishes and sustains skin'­s moisture level with organic Egyptian Jasmine, renowned for its nourishing, smoothing and antioxidant benefits for skin. Amala's certified organic Jasmine is cultivated and custom distilled in Egypt by their own fair trade farm partner.  Your skin feels so refreshed, soothed and pampered. This is the gift of responsible, results-driven skincare. Rich in organic whole plants, the conveniently packaged, proven-effective treatments beautify the skin and benefit the earth.  Eco-luxe organic hemp and woven paper valise.  Available at Spirit Beauty Lounge.   $102 for the set.

Includes:

Hydrating cream cleanser 1.7 oz.

Hydrating toner 1.7 oz.

Hydrating face cream 1 oz.

ELEMENTAL HERBOLOGY D.I.Y. FACIAL RITUAL GIFT SET
Offering innovative prescriptive skincare, Elemental Herbology products address the changes that occur in the skin as a result of seasonal, lifestyle and hormonal change. Formulated to help restore equilibrium, the brand is committed to helping their customers achieve healthy and radiant skin. They are performance focused, yielding that ‘feel good factor’, their products combine clinically-tested bio-actives with over one hundred unique plant, mineral and marine extracts and pure delicately scented flower oils.

This is the perfect introduction kit to give you a wonderful discovery of this fabulous skincare brand. Love, love, love Elemental Herbology.  I can't believe this kit is only $55.  Available at Beauty Bar.

Includes:

Facial Glow Radiance Peel - Vitamin C/Papaya/Manuka Honey

This radiance peel is infused with a tropical cocktail of vitamins, enzymes and skin-brightening botanicals, to help exfoliate dead surface cells, stimulate cell metabolism and harmonise the skin tone to create a radiant and glowing complexion.

Facial Detox Puifying Mask - Malachite/Kaolin/Manuka Honey

Mineral rich organic Amazonian Clay helps eliminate toxins from the surface of the skin while gently exfoliating and softening. Although it has astringent properties it is not as dehydrating as conventional clays, leaving the skin soft, humidified and glowing.

Biodynamic Facial Souffle' - Rose Damask/Marine Collagen/Calendula

Rich in amino acids, collagen and reparative botanicals, this luxurious treatment mask helps soothe, plump, hydrate and repair parched skin to reveal a dewy, fresh and vibrant complexion.

CLARISONIC MIA
If your mom doesn't own a Clarisonic yet, this is the p-e-r-f-e-c-t occasion to treat her to one. From the Clarisonic family of sonic skin-cleansing products, the one-button, one-speed, one-minute Mia is perfect for those wanting a convenient, less costly (from the traditional Clarisonic system), yet effective way to cleanse while traveling--or anytime. This award-winning waterproof, rechargeable, professional-caliber brush uses gentle sonic micro-massage action to cleanse deeply. It works so well, it helps other skin-care products absorb better. It cleans pores--loosening dirt, makeup, and oil as it reduces the appearance of pores and wrinkles. It's proven to remove six times more makeup than traditional superficial cleansing, allowing serums and moisturizers to absorb better. Skin is left soft, pampered, radiant, and younger-looking--without harsh abrasion or chemicals. It's so gentle, you can use it twice a day.

Clarisonic Mia Systems retail between $124 - $150 and are available worldwide.  I recommend purchasing from b-glowing (looove them! great customer service and they include fabulous samples) and QVC (sometimes available with easy pay options).

JABONERIA MARIANELLA SOAPS
Handmade soaps, each with its own distinctive artistic flair and a childhood memory attached.  That's what Venezuelan-born Marianella Febres-Cordero has created with her gorgeous and luxurious line of soaps.  This is one of my very favorite places to shop when I have a gift to buy!  Each bar smells luscious and creates such a beautiful focal point, wherever you place it.  You just can't help but be transported to another place and time through the stories Marianella tells for each soap inspiration. Each bar is infused with its own special essential and fragrance oils. It's a sensual experience through and through. Truly lovely!

Current bars include:

Aranciata (my favorite) - Orange, Teakwood and Rosemary

Aura Elena (close 2nd) - Oak Moss, Coconut and Mulberry

Coqueta - Baby Powder, Vanilla and Grapefruit

Dama de la Noche - Lemon, Apple and the exotic Dama de la Noche flower

Desert Gardenia - Gardenia, Honey and Oak Moss

Lemonwood - Bois de Rose, Litsea Cubeba and Bergamot

Parchita - Passion Fruit, Polyantha Rose and Litsea Cubeba

Poncha Crema - Vanilla, Fig and Cinnamon

Sugar Cane Tea - Sugar Cane, Plum and Litsea Cubeba

Violet Fields - Violet, Bergamot and a hint of Menthol

Jaboneria Marianella bars (there's a men's line too) are available directly through them. $14

THIS WORKS "CRACKERS"
I love these ... and so unique. Love Lip Cracker contains a nourishing preservative-free balm that's been designed to melt at body temperature so it is easily absorbed into skin. With a rich formula packed with the earth's most moisturizing ingredients and an exotic blend of Monoi Oil, Rose Oil and Cocoa Butter, the balm hydrates lips, soothes and protects skin. Peace Eye Cracker contains a lovely little eye serum/cream that has garnered rave reviews for dark circle reduction and improvement in lines and undereye bags. The soothing blend of serum brightens and refreshes eyes using a fusion of regenerating and moisturizing glycerin, arnica, aloe vera and cucumber. Both are available at Beautyhabit. $14 each.

TALLULAH JANE NATURAL PERFUMES
Blended with botanical essences, resins and balsams, Tallulah Jane scents are an ever-evolving olfactory experience. No two vintages are exactly alike so your Tallulah Jane scent is always unique; designed my nature - especially for you. Tallulah, their signature scent, is the most fabulous jasmine scent I've ever tried. Creamy jasmine notes and heady tuberose combine for a scent that is timeless yet so ultra cool! And be on the look out soon for a feature on their newest creation, Hope. I can't wait to tell you more about it and the company's generous collaboration with the American Cancer Society for their Pink & Black Tie Gala. Tallulah Jane perfumes are available at Spirit Beauty Lounge. $48 - $58

LOVE + TOAST and TOKYO MILK CURIOSITIES
Such whimsical packaging, gorgeous formulas and sweet, decadent aromas are yours with a little purchase of Love + Toast or Tokyo Milk products. They feature an assortment of perfumes, soaps, lip balms and hand creams that are unlike any you've tried before. Experience scent combinations like mandarin tea, honey coconut, lemon mint, citrus gin blossom, or tantalize with a sophisticated blend of fresh greens, cassis, white iris and bronzed musk crushed and distilled to perfection. Love + Toast and Tokyo Milk and Tokyo Milk Dark are by beauty entrepreneur Margot Elena Wells, who also brought us Lollia. Her natural beauty line will be released soon, nectar + pollen - can't wait! Love + Toast and Tokyo Milk products are available at b-glowing and Beautyhabit. $6 - $28


Candles & Home Fragrance
Continue the heavenly scents experience for mom with a beautifully packaged candle or unique home fragrance idea.  Nothing warms the mood of a room or the essence of a soul quite like the candlelight.

AEDES DE VENUSTAS GLOW BOX
Presented in their signature black Aedes gift box the Glow Box contains their popular Lime Coconut Sea Salt Exfoliator, Claus Porto's Tuberose soap and a L'Artisan Parfumeur votive candle.  Available at Aedes. $80

L'ARTISAN PARFUMEUR PARIS VOTIVES COFFRETS
The exclusive and limited edition gift coffret contains three L'Artisan Parfumeur votives.  Les Best is composed of Orangers en Fleurs, Intérieur Figuier and Mûre Sauvage; Les Orientales is composed of Ambre, Thé et Pain d’Epices and Ile Bourbon. Available at Aedes. $60 (each set)

SLATKIN & CO.
Flower Shop is a delightful scent of fresh-cut spring flowers - sweet lilac, pink freesia and hyacinth layered with cooling greens.  This 14.5 oz, 3-wick candle has a burn life of 40 - 65 hours and is available at Bath & Body Works. Fresh Bamboo is another fabulous scent - very clean smelling. Special Sale Price: 2 candles for $30 any assortment of scents (reg. $19.95 each).

AVENUE CANDLE COLLECTION
Years of traversing the globe searching for extraordinary fragrances is the inspiration for Avenue Candle Collection; each unique candle brings the characteristics and mood of some of the most famous streets in Avenue's favorite cities into our homes.  Avenue's Regent Street highlights notes of Earl Grey Tea and Violet.  Bergamot Citrus and Black Tea leaves are married with a hint of honey and neroli for a deeply rich fragrance.  Available  at LAFCO New York. Burn time: 75 - 85 hours.  $48

SANTA MARIA NOVELLA SCENTED TABLETS
Here's a divinely unique idea.  Santa Maria Novella Scented Tablets are 100% organic and natural essential oils mixed with beeswax from the fertile Tuscan fields and bee farms of Santa Maria Novella. Too beautiful to be hidden, tablets can be placed in drawers, hung in closets (ribbon is already attached) or simply left out in the open on a tray to freshen and scent the surrounding space. Tablets are completely safe and organic and will not stain clothing or fabrics, however wax will become malleable at very high room temperatures (85+ degrees F).  Lavender and rose oils, lavender blossoms and rose buds for a fresh romantic scent. Available at LAFCO New York, and also available in the scents of Orange/Cinnamon and Potpourri. $30

Wishing you and your mothers a most fabulous Mother's Day weekend!  xo

DKNY Supports Eco-Friendly Beauty with PureDKNY

A feeling of peace, a moment to escape from everyday worries, time out for the things that are closest to our hearts: love, joy, comfort. These sentiments are the foundation of DKNY's new fragrance pureDKNY.

DKNY Fragrances is taking small steps toward responsible practices in fragrance, and their new scent is one example of that - scent with a conscience.

Classified as a soft floral it is the drop of vanilla grown in Uganda that envelopes the fragrance as its signature ingredient. Through a partnership with CARE, a leading humanitarian organization fighting global poverty, pureDKNY is supporting a 15-month project that will reach 1,650 vanilla farmers, approximately 60% women, in rural communities in Uganda's south-western Mukono district.

The eco-friendly pureDKNY packaging communicates its message in both style and substance. Inspired by the shape of a raindrop, the minimalist clear glass bottle is 100% recyclable. The fragrance's box/carton is made from Certified Forest Paper and wrapped in Nature Flex, a certified biodegradable and compostable material made from tree pulp.

What DKNY would like us to breathe in with its new scent creation is that pureDKNY is more than a fragrance, it's a lifestyle, a state of mind, a way of being and living respnsibly. It's about respecting nature and taking simple, yet meaningful actions to make a difference. pureDKNY celebrates the beauty of caring - for ourselves, for others and for the world we live in. Elevating the message a step higher, DKNY chose supermodel and ambassador of sustainable living Angela Lindvall for the pureDKNY ad campaign.

This is a truly beautiful fragrance, a balanced blending of floral with subtle touches of vanilla, amber and wood. It features a "dew-drop petal accord" of lotus flower and bulgarian rose, which harmonize with the floral heart of transparent jasmine, freesia and lush orchid. The base envelops you in warmth with white amber, creamy sandalwood (you can really smell this ... delightful) and a drop of pure Ugandan vanilla in water. Simply beautiful.

Available in 1 oz, 1.7 oz and 3.4 oz recyclable raindrop glass bottles, pureDKNY is available through DKNY fragrances. Visit them at puredkny.com.

Lotsa New Lubin at Aedes

Four new fragrances join the Lubin family of eau de toilettes and Aedes de Venustas has them.  The stories behind the fragrances are as sensual and evocative as the scents themselves.

INEDITE

Aziyadé, a young Circassian harem girl imprisoned in an oriental palace, embodies the unreachable and sensual beauty of which every man dreams. The word “inédite” means “unpublished” in French, like the story the young author in love with Aziyadé didn’t dare tell.

The sweet seduction of sugared almonds warms up into a harmony of vanilla and roses, reminding us of those spicy sweets so adored by oriental beauties. After a top note of rose water that is fresh and pure like a Sicilian orange, Inédite is a sweet and spicy creation adorned with a floral harmony of heliotrope, lilac and rose, and topped with a fruity note of nectarines.

Vanilla, iris and patchouli transform the sweet seduction of sugared almonds into aromas of cinnamon, pepper and coriander. Cedar and musk base notes make its Eastern-inspired foundation even more irresistible.

• Top notes: Sicilian mandarin, bergamot, pink peppercorns from Mexico.
• Middle notes: Russian coriander and cinnamon, Javanese cloves, heliotrope and lilac, nectarine, Damask rose and cabbage rose.
• Base notes: Vanilla, iris, patchouli, Kashmir cedar, white musk.

FIGARO

Bold and seductive like the Figaro from Beaumarchais’ plays, Figaro by Lubin takes liberties with conventions much like the character that inspired it. An extremely original unisex fragrance, its construction is based on the daring opposition of vetiver and fig, which starts out green and ends up with gentle amber and woody base notes.

At the heart of this fragrance is a counterpoint of vetiver and fig brightened by notes of apple, clover and plum. Cilantro evokes the green of nature and seaside pines, mingling with ocean breezes. These woody, amber tones finally give way to vetiver, sandalwood, tonka bean and benzoin balm base notes.

• Top notes: Grapefruit, bergamot, pink peppercorns, marine pine.
• Middle notes: Fig and apple, Damson, coriander leaves, clover.
• Base notes: Essence of vetiver, styrax, sandalwood, tonka bean.

BLUFF

Bluff is at first a refreshing invigorating blend of citrus fruits, wood extracts and spices. It then reveals itself as an extremely elegant yet sensual unisex eau de parfum.

The composition is inspired from the invigorating remedies supplied to the pioneers in the Wild West during the gold rush. Once developed by emigrant physicians, these tonics were first considered as medicines. They would soon become a part of American culture, and later be transformed into soft drinks for young people.

A distinguished fragrance with deceiving first impressions: crowned with lime, bergamot and an accord of nutmeg and cinnamon, Bluff opens as fresh and spicy. It then reveals sensual, with mouthwatering heart notes of clary sage, iris and kola nut. This blend rests on an exquisite foundation of Vetiver cedar, patchouli and sandalwood vanilla.

• Top notes: lime, bergamot, nutmeg and cinnamon.
  
• Middle notes: Clary sage, iris and kola nut.
  
• Base notes: Vetiver, cedar, patchouli and sandalwood vanilla.
  

ITASCA

The Mississippi River finds its main source in the legendary Lake Itasca in the heart of Minnesota. Itasca by Lubin is reminiscent of the forests covering the American landscape once inhabited by the Algonquin tribes and pioneers exploring their depths.

Core notes of Minnesotan red pine mingle with a base of amber, incense, vetiver Java and Texas cedar woods. After fresh top notes of juniper berries, a spicy harmony then unfolds where dominant woody notes are accented with clove and nutmeg.

A spiced vetiver, Itasca opens with citrus fruits refreshed by juniper berries, followed by a harmonious combination of oriental woods, vetiver, and red Minnesotan pine. This scent evokes the forests that surround Lake Itasca, the source of the great Mississippi river, and a legendary place guarded by Algonquin Indians.

• Top notes: Neroli, marigold, mandarin, juniper berry and grapefruit.
• Middle notes: Clove, tonka bean, clary sage, nutmeg, geranium flower.
• Base notes: Itasca red pine (pinus resinosa), Java vetiver and Texan cedar, Partak incense, Ethiopian myrrh, amber and Canadian fir balsam.

 

The Inedite is seriously calling my name!  Can you hear it?
All four Lubin fragrances above are available in 2.5 oz eau de toilette contemporary glass bottles and retail for $110 each.  For more information on these glorious fragrances, please visit aedes.com.

Philosophy Eternal Grace Spray Fragrance ... Huh?

Ok, so I just received my bottle of philosophy Eternal Grace, which I'd pre-ordered from QVC several weeks ago.  I've been perusing the community forums, perfume blogging sites and the like looking for what folks think about this variety of "Grace". Comments are pretty much what I expected. Let me be upfront in what philosophy fragrances are my faves in case that is helpful to you in analyzing my thoughts on the fragrance; I'm an Amazing Grace - Inner Grace lover. My own personal quick and low down on Eternal Grace is this:

1)  It's nothing like Amazaing Grace.  I've seen lots of folks asking if it smells like Amazing; it doesn't.  I would agree with most that the fragrance it smells most like, in the Grace family, is Pure, but I don't find Eternal captures the same "fresh and clean" scent of Pure in the same way. At all, actually.

2)  I'd also agree with those who think this particular fragrance belongs more in the Love family of philosphy fragrances and not the Grace family.  Eternal feels more like Falling in Love than it does anything in the Grace family.

3)  The notes, which I suppose philosophy wishes to remain a mystery as I can't find the notes listed anywhere, seem to be a frustration for many other philosophy-girls as well.  My experience of Eternal Grace is an overwhelming smell of violets.  It smells like violet on first spray; it smells like violet after drydown, and it still smells like violet hours later.  My personal opinion is that violet is not really a "fresh, clean, energizing" note, however others may disagree with that.  Philosophy is toting Eternal as a fresh, clean energizing citrusy scent with multi-dimensional note experience.  I'm not getting the multi-dimensional aspect.  I smell violet, overwhelmingly, from start to finish.  Yes, I can certainly detect some citrus, probably bergamot, but other subtle notes escape me. 

4)  I don't agree with lots who have organized this fragrance into the sickly sweet category.  On me, it's not all too sweet.  Now, having said that, the whole violet experience does come into play here in that one might be reminded of childhood memories of those violet candies when sniffing a wrist, and there might evoke a feeling of sweetness.

So my final analysis of Eternal Grace is this: underwhelmed and a bit disappointed.

I'm definitely more a Grace girl than I am a Love girl in terms of philosophy fragrance families and I just wouldn't put Eternal in the Grace family.  It's a lovely scent.  I'll wear it for sure.  Would I say I actually like it?  Probably not.  But it's the kind of "probably not" that infers had I picked up the bottle of Eternal at a department store counter I'd have put it back on the shelf and not scurried to the checkout counter with my credit card in hand needing to have it variety of probably not.

What say you?  I'd love to know what all of you think of Eternal Grace.  Please feel free to comment or tweet me your thoughts. 

Philosophy Eternal Grace is available at QVC.com and retails for $40 a 2 oz glass bottle.

Fragrance Ideas for Father's Day

Cards and wrapping available at Redstamp.com

Having a tough time figuring out what to give Dad for Father's Day?  Treat him to a new scent that suits his personality.

The Tough, Courageous Dad
If dad is the man who always takes a stand, celebrate his bravery with a daring, classic scent. Inspired by visionary artists, icons and rebels who overcome adversity and make their mark, Diesel Only The Brave is a fragrance about making an impact. The scent represents the qualities of the brave, symbolized by a fist that tells several stories: facing forward, the fist evokes power and energy; upright, it stands for self-affirmation; raised, it signifies victory, success and engagement. The powerful, provocative scent blends lemon blossom, mandarin, amber and ebony wood for a fresh fragrance that dad will love. 50ml EDT, $55; 2.5oz EDT, $67.50  Available at Diesel boutiques, Diesel-fragrances.com, Macy’s, Dillard’s and other major department stores.

Know a dad with a love of comic books or a fan of Iron Man films? Celebrate his superhero bravery with a Diesel limited-edition Iron Man version for the comic book loving dad!

The Confident, Fashion-Forward Dad
If dad is constantly updating his look, give him the ultimate accessory. A bold new scent, Express Honor captures downtown edge and big-city cool with one spritz. A watery, fresh and aromatic scent, Honor blends energizing top notes of fresh water accord, peppermint and basil, leading to a heart of grapefruit, fig and green ivy. The smoldering fragrance dries down to a base of musk, vetiver and a hint of vanilla. The fragrance is housed in an edgy, flask-shaped silver bottle which is emblazoned with Express’s signature lion logo.  50ml EDT, $44.90; 100ml EDT, $59.90 Available at Express.com and Express stores nationwide
 

The Art Lover and Pop Culture Enthusiast
If Dad is a patron of the arts, give him a fragrance worth collecting. Inspired by legendary artist Andy Warhol’s summer forays to Montauk, Long Island, Bond No. 9 Andy Warhol Montauk marks the fifth in Bond No. 9’s series of Warhol collectible eaux de parfum. Not your typical summer fragrance, Bond No. 9 Andy Warhol Montauk takes a new approach to the genre of beach scent: It riffs on the duality of country and city, rural and urban. The fresh and tangy initial flavors of blueberry and wild bergamot give way, first to sultry, sexy hyacinth, lily of the valley, and honeysuckle, and then to rich, clean forest-by-the-sea aromas—silver maple, red oak, driftwood, and amber. Choose from 2 bottle designs, each displaying two of Warhol’s iconic Sunset paintings dating from 1972, truly making this fragrance a piece of art. Bond No. 9 Andy Warhol Montauk makes its timely arrival on-counter in June, just in time for Father’s Day.
50ml, $145; 100ml, $220. Available at Bondno9.com

The Old-School Allure of The Gentlemen's Club Dad
Sacré Coeur (sacred heart) by perfumer Laurent Bruyère for the line Ego Facto gives the classic citrus-leather accord a new twist with an original and utterly unexpected Chablis accord. The tart, fruity-flinty aroma spills over an aromatic herbal blend before seeping into a rugged patchouli, tobacco and leather base. Think old-style gentlemen’s club – cool wine, a whiff of Havana from the humidor, a deep leather chair and the comfortably musty smell of old books – perked up with a dash of humor. Intoxicating.
50ml, $90. Available at Luckyscent.com

The Dad That Exudes the Heroism of a Greek God
The lucid composition of Peloponnesian Eau de Parfum by Strange Invisible Perfumes is built with the ancient perfumes of the Greek peninsula. Salted Aegean winds glide through the branches of cypress, lime, and orange trees, lifting their epic aromas into the Peloponnesian mountains. A reception of mountain sage honey collects each gallant perfume as it rises from the vineyard-patterned earth of the Peloponnesos. Strange Invisible Perfume's first exclusively male eau de parfum exhilirates and renews with its dry down of fresh botanical musk. 50ml $160. Available at siperfumes.com and Beautyhabit.com

The Nature Lover and Organic Devote'
Honoré des Prés Chaman’s Party is an explosive unisex fragrance with aphrodisiac properties. Inspired by a tree-house experience and total immersion in the heart of the virgin Amazon forest. Intended for those who know, be they women or men, how to breathe in the earth’s strength. Vetiver root from Haiti, sacred basil from Egypt, Wood of Life from Venezuela, dried clove flowers from Madagascar.
100ml $145. Available at SpiritBeautyLounge.com

Happy shopping, lovelies! xo

The Melancholy Beauty of Agonist Parfums ~ The Infidels

AGONIST is a Nordic fragrance brand inspired by the melancholy and beauty of film, poetry and literature from Bergman, Boye and Garbo and other iconized characters from Swedish Culture.

AGONIST creates pure fragrances inspired by the Nordic climate. Raw materials and product give form to the Swedish but even more Nordic clarity – fresh with a vigourous weight and beautiful low tones.

In close collaboration with professional perfumers in Grasse, France, unique Eau de Parfums are created for the individual rather than for men or women. The fragrances are carefully embraced by handcrafted Swedish glass created in collaboration with glass artist Åsa Jungnelius at Kosta Boda, - Swedens most prestigious glassworks in use, founded 1742 and situated in the forests of Småland, Sweden.

And new for June 2010, AGONIST Parfums introduces its exquisitely luxurious The Infidels Eau de Parfum.

“If it were only a gleaming fantasy, gushing in the darkness, It would have dried up in the day. But it became a play with smiles, hesitation, and glances, which grew into a desire. The desire blossomed into a shivering flower of lost control, breaking a solemn promise and doing apart. Cutting love in half.”

Presented in an unlimited edition handcrafted flacon designed by Åsa Jungnelius for Kosta Boda. Every bottle is unique and a natural development out of the first two editons by Agonist Parfums.

Top notes: black currant, green cumin and bergamot

Middle notes: magnolia, tonka and lavender

Base notes: patchouli, amber, labdanum

 
AGONIST The Infidels is available in a 1.7 oz edp bottle and retails for $495; it is available this month at Aedes de Venustas.

SpaceNK's Six Hottest NOW Products!

New and hot at Space.NK Apothecary, seriously luxe sun protection, a sparkling scent, hydrating hair care and more. This fresh chic boutique keeps getting better with its fine selection of the newest products from the top brands in skincare, cosmetics and haircare. Just persuing their catalogs or walking the store aisles will render your lemming list, um, well let's just say "well-populated". Weeeeee .....

After Sun Repair by Institut Estherderm $49
An after-sun face cream, ideal to comfort the skin after sun exposure and to extend a golden tan

• Dextran sulfate soothes and calms reddened and irritated skin
• Centenella asiatica firms the skin and reduces fine lines and wrinkles
• Glycerin leaves skin feeling soft, supple and comfortable

Neil George Pure Shot Intense Repair Treatment Spray $55
This spray restores your hair from root to tip in just 60 seconds and is the answer for hair damaged by chemical processing, the sun and styling. The amount of time to blowdry your hair will be reduced due to the repair of split ends leaving you with extra soft and silky, smooth hair, increased color longevity and shine, free of fly-aways and less breakage.

This haircare brand is so hot right now stores can't keep their products in stock. This item, as an example, was out of stock last time I checked, but they promise they're bringing more in.

ReVive Filtre de Soleil Face Protector SPF 45 $95
An intensely moisturizing lip protector provides an anti-aging formula with UVA and UVB protection, as well as soothing relief for dry lips to keep them soft and supple. An exclusive blend of MoistureLips and plumping ingredients help plump and moisturize lips to soften lines while optical diffusers hide the look of imperfections. Suitable for all skin types, lips are left younger at application while advanced ingredients work to help renew and protect skin.

Elemental Herbology Eye Elixir $57

This has become one of my favorite skincare brands of late; I'm totally hooked on their illustrative packaging and the gorgeous goodness inside.

A triple-action, advanced eye-serum that helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, puffiness and dark circles. Combining innovative cosmetic technology with active botanical ingredients, it will help to firm, tighten, lift and nourish the delicate eye region to transform weary, parched or weathered eyes.

Acqua di Parma Blu Mediterraneo Bergamotto di Calabria Eau De Toilette $106
Fresh, crisp top notes of essential oils of Sicillian oranges and tangerines, Sorrento lemons and grapefruit. In the heart notes essence of petitgrain blends with the intense fragrance of mate leaves, while essential cardamom oil expresses its resolute, original character. In the base notes, a slight hint of caramel blends perfectly with the more sensual notes of musk which warms the frangrance so that it lingers on the skin. 120ml

TOCCA SPF 30+ Sunscreen Towelettes in Stella $28
How brilliant is this? Scented in the slightly sweet, fresh scent of Italian blood orange, these towelettes are pre-moistened in a gentle, sweat resistant, broad spectrum SPF 30+ physical sunscreen that’s enriched with Vitamins E and B5, aloe and marine silk. The individually wrapped towelettes make it easy to be sun savvy no matter where you are - on the beach or on the go. Each pack contains 8 towelettes.

• SPF 30+ Physical Sunscreen
• Water - Sweat Resistant
• Provides UVA/UVB Protection
• Hypoallergenic and Clinically Tested
• Broad Spectrum Physical Sunscreen
• Natural ingredients include: Vitamins E and B5, Aloe, Marine Silk, Oat Extract, Grape Seed Oil, Avocado Oil
• Not tested on Animals

 
For more information and to shop these fab little finds, visit Space.NK.

Skinstore Offers Philosophy at 15% Off!!

Just a quick little PSA to let you know Philosophy is now 15% off at Skinstore!!  Whoohooooo ....

Philosophy is a brand that VERY rarely offers discounts on their products. Items to consider?  Well, how 'bout those in the image above?  They're ALL new products from philosophy now and all are bound to make you and those around you happy campers.  The clean, fresh scents, the natural, lit-from-within glow of healthy skin, the indulgent scrubs, firming creams, bubble baths and 3-in-1's.  If you're already a philosophy girl, there's no need to tease you further, and if you're not a philosophy girl, why the heck not?  LOL.

ALL NEW FROM PHILOSOPHY

Miracle Worker Miraculous Anti Aging Moisturizer luxurious miracle cream features a unique complex that helps replenish skin's natural moisture barrier, leaving it feeling satiny smooth; loaded with vitamin c and glutathione helps enhance natural collagen production and brighten a tired complexion for a firm, radiant result, plus the antioxidant benefits of resveratrol help soothe, calm and protect skin against environmental attack

The Supernatural Instant Sunshine is a good-for-skin, mineral powder bronzer that provides sheer, natural-looking, sunny color for a healthy sun-kissed glow

State of Grace Mini Fragrance Wardrobe includes amazing grace, pure grace and inner grace fragrances .33 oz. wear amazing grace when you want to feel amazingly clean and beautifully feminine, pure grace when you want to feel fresh and clean, and inner grace when you want to feel peaceful and balanced

I Think You Are Wonderful a sweet way for you to let someone know how wonderful they are; a delicious duo (8 oz each bottle) of mandarin orange and cherry scented 3-in-1 shampoo, shower gel and bubble baths; guilt-free indulgences make for a pampering shower or bath experience and gently cleanse and condition skin and hair

With Gratitude a special gift featuring a 16 oz. pomegranate 3-in-1 bath and shower gel created to cleanse and condition skin and hair with its moisturizing, high-foaming formula as it invigorates the senses with its delicious pomegranate scent

The Supernatural Superbeautiful a superhealthy, hybrid makeup created for the woman who doesn't consider herself a professional makeup artist and needs an easy-to-apply, get-out-the-door makeup; a new hybrid alternative to traditional liquid makeup uses pure, natural color in a skin-loving, water-based formula that won't pollute your pores and is as good for your skin as any skin care product; the healthy, good-for-skin formula is infused with natural, plant-based moisturizers; minerals; vitamins; antioxidants; and spf 20 to deliver sheer color, moisture and protection in one step; available in many shades/tints

Advanced Makeup Optional Kit incorporates retinol, spf and exfoliation to provide a "step up" from the basic makeup optional skin kit. this daily a.m. and p.m. skin care regimen is designed to treat multiple skin concerns associated with aging, protect and prevent against future damage and help restore a healthy, youthful, glowing complexion; these are all full sizes

The Color of Grace Amazing Grace Shimmering Face Powder be touched by the beauty of grace with this sweetly shimmering, pale pink powder which instantly brightens your complexion as it releases an uplifting touch of amazing grace fragrance; one soft, shimmering pink shade captures all things pink and beautiful for a look that is flattering on all skin tones and may be worn alone for a heavenly glow, over makeup, or to refresh your skin and spirit any time

Field of Flowers Body Lotion and Spray Fragrance Gift Set ultra-rich body lotion 8 oz. and spray fragrance 2 oz. gift set is the fresh, floral scent of peony, created to make a woman feel positively lovely; the luxurious body lotion moisturizes, softens and conditions dry skin, leaving it feeling silky smooth and extremely touchable

Unconditional Love Mini Layering Set is love without limits; experience the soulful, passionate, enduring scent of unconditional love perfect for women who want to feel surrounded by love and happiness throughout the day

The Big Skinny Skin-Smoothing Exfoliating Scrub infused with a delectable, cocoa scent, this skin-contouring body scrub promotes circulation through exfoliation and massage, which helps reduce the accumulation of stagnant fluids that contribute to lumps and bumps in the skin

The Big Skinny Self-Tanning Firming Cream this ultra-rich body cream is formulated with a progressive, self-tanning technology that delivers gradual, natural-looking color and is infused with skin-firming agents designed to smooth and tone the skin; subtly fragranced with the delectable scent of cocoa
The Supernatural Moonlight translucent, illuminating powder instantly highlights your compexion leaving behind a luminous finish

Pink Frosted Layer Cake High Foaming Shower Gel brings instant happiness and smiles to people of all ages in a high-foaming shampoo, shower gel & bubble bath brings the deliciously sweet scent of a pink frosted layer cake right to your shower; you can't help but experience pure joy from the scrumptious smell as you work up a rich, creamy lather from head to toe

All this philosophy loveliness and much more is available at Skinstore now and may be purchased at 15% off with philosophy purchase of $65 or more PLUS free shipping through June 11, 2010 only!

Click HERE for 15% off your $65 or more philosophy order + free shipping

REVIEW: Lady Vengeance by Juliette Has a Gun

The Juliette Has a Gun line of fragrance creates perfumes made out of rose. Fragile but thorny, the romantic flower comes in different versions. Its ambition? To lead a new rock & elegant trend in the perfumery world, by creating romantic and original creations. And while I'd agree the line does succeed in creating romantic fragrances, they fall a bit short in the original category - more on that in a bit.

Offbeat dandy of the perfume world (he's known to wear fedoras), Romano Ricci has quite a background. A great grandmother in haute couture, a grandfather perfumer, he is definitely into creation. After years of quiet training with some of the greatest, he convinced Francis Kurkdjian (the nose behind Indult fragrances), the untouchable master of perfumery, to work with him, and launched Juliette Has a Gun.

For purposes of this review, I'm concentrating on Lady Vengeance. 'Tis an elegant fragrance with a bit of mysterious rose, sultry vanilla and seductive patchouli, which offers a bit of edge, a bit of earthy-woodiness to it, though not overpowering. It's a sweet fragrance, though not too, and I think may best be worn in fall or autumn when the coolness of the air may summon the warmth of the fragrance. I'd also wear this to bed at night as sultry, sexy dreams are sure to abound with the lovely blending of Bulgarian Rose, vanilla and patchouli Lady Vengeance exudes.

The packaging with its black opaque bottle, yet feminine style works to support the theme of Juliette Has a Gun - Shakesperian heroine goes wild - and assists in focusing on the trendiness of the line as well. Edgy yet girly, sexy yet subtle, it works. The fragrance also comes in refillable purse bullets; again, the rocker chic vibe is hard to miss.

Lady Vengeance is one of those fragrances that changes over time. Spray it on your wrist and enjoy the headiness of the aroma, then sniff again after an hour and indulge in another variety, another dimension of the notes.

The rose is by far the focal point of the fragrance. Having said that, there are a number of other fragrances on the market with a very similar scent. I've heard it be compared to Agent Provocateur (though not as complex), Midnight Poison (though fresher, lighter), L'Artisan Voleur de Rose (though not as gutsy and a bit sweeter). So although this isn't the most original rose fragrance available, it is quite delicious and definitely worth grabbing whether you're wanting to indulge your own olfactory sense, or drive another to want to eat you up!

Lady Vengeance is available in 50 ml and 100 ml bottles retailing for $85/$110 respectively.  The purse bullet set with refillable vibes retails at $75. You'll find Lady Vengeance, along with other Juliette Has a Gun fragrances, at the beautifully modern, always illuminating, niche beauty boutique b-glowing.com. Enjoy! xo

images: b-glowing, BeautyNewsNYC, stylehive

New! Balenciaga - the Scent

Edgy and provocative. Just like a Nicholas Guesquiere runway fashion.

Balenciaga Paris Eau de Parfum is described as a demure violet with airy blossom and delicate peppery notes. A fragrance that is mysterious and fragile.

A luminous, sophisticated fragrance with beautiful ingredients shaped in an innovative structure. Both modern and classic, just like traditional haute perfumery. A Chypre Violet with the green, fresh signature of the flower and its leaves, blended into a precious harmony of pure woods. A refined, feminine fragrance with a unique trail.

Available at Barney's, Bergdorf Goodman, Nordstrom, and other fine department stores. The fragrances retails between $70 and $130 and more is also available online at Balenciaga.

source/image: Barney's

Toss in a Free Refill on Bond No. 9

 

Who says luxury has to cost a lot? How about getting a little luxury for free when you show your loyalty to one of the nation's top perfume houses? Sound too good to be true? Well, what if I tell you the luxury is a complimentary refill of your favorite Bond No. 9? Mmmmmm ...

 

Alright, enough with the questions, the teasers, the build-up, and onto the news!
Bond No. 9 truly does appreciate their customers' loyalty.  They value it so much they're giving away a free refill of gorgeous perfume to those who purchase any two Bond No. 9 items (except pocket sprays & soaps) now through Saturday, June 5th.

 

By any measure, this is a fantastic value, and both you and Bond No. 9 will be contributing to an eco-smart planet through the refill. Yay!  A win-win ... I love when that happens.

 

So, the hard part will be deciding upon which two items to buy.  Here, a sampling of some "gorgeousness" that just may strike your fancy:

 

•  High Line Eau de Parfum - The scent of bergamot, purple love grass, Indian rhubarb, red leaf rose, tulip, grape hyacinth, wildflowers, green grasses and bur oak … and urban renewal (was new to counters in March). 50 ml $145, 100 ml $220
• The Scent of Peace Candle - Sparkling grapefruit, black currant, lily of the valley, mellowed with base notes of cedarwood and musk. $95
• Chinatown Body Silk - The unspeakably lush cream is a sumptuous body smoother that simultaneously soothes the skin; rich in perfume with notes of peach blossoms, gardenia, tuberose, patchouli, cardamom. 200 ml $115

 

 

 

Also, be sure to be on the lookout for Bond No. 9's newest fragrance launch Andy Warhol Montauk in June 2010, just in time for Father's Day.  An androgynous male-female perfume, fresh and tangy initial flavors of blueberry and wild bergamot give way, first to sultry, sexy hyacinth, lily of the valley, and honeysuckle, and then to rich, clean forest-by-the-sea aromas—silver maple, red oak, driftwood, and amber.

 

 

 

Visit Bond No. 9 online for more information and to shop their fabulous library of fragrances.