Luxist http://www.luxist.com Luxist http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Luxist http://www.luxist.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Win a Zappos Gift Card]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/18/win-a-zappos-gift-card/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/18/win-a-zappos-gift-card/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/18/win-a-zappos-gift-card/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Win a Zappos Gift CardWhen Zappos offered Luxist a $50 gift card, I jumped at the chance. I had a lot of fun browsing the site, which started out as a shoe mecca and now includes bags, clothing, housewares, and beauty items. The tough part was making a choice. I gave in to footwear trends and bought a pair of chocolate brown UGG boots, chipping in the rest of the price on my own, of course.

Then I thought, what about Luxist readers? So I asked Zappos if it would offer a $50 gift card to one reader, and the nice folks there agreed. Use the card to buy a gift for someone else, or for yourself. Or just save it until you need something. The card doesn't expire and doesn't incur fees.

Some other important details:
* To enter, leave a confirmed comment below.
* The comment must be left and confirmed by December 25, 2009 at 5:00PM Eastern Time.
* You may only enter once.
* One winner will be selected in a random drawing.
* One winner will receive a Zappos Gift Card valued at $50.
* Open to legal residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia.

See complete contest rules here.

LuxistWin a Zappos Gift Card originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beautyclothinggift cardgift certificateGiftCardGiftCertificategiveawayhandbagsholidayshoesZapposFri, 18 Dec 2009 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Barneys New York: A Leader in Cutting-Edge Fashion]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/15/barneys-new-york-a-leader-in-cutting-edge-fashion/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/15/barneys-new-york-a-leader-in-cutting-edge-fashion/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/15/barneys-new-york-a-leader-in-cutting-edge-fashion/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Sarah Jessica Parker once said, "If you're a nice person and you work hard, you get to go shopping at Barneys." It's not just Parker and her Sex and the City contemporaries in New York that frequent this Luxist-nominated department store -- flagship locations are sprinkled throughout the country from Boston to San Francisco.

According to legend, Barney Pressman opened his first store with the $500 he received for pawning his wife's engagement ring. He packed the 500-square-foot location at Seventh Avenue and West 17th Street in Manhattan with brand-name suits sold at discount prices. To get good deals on his merchandise, Pressman raided showroom sample sales and even a few bankruptcy auctions. He lured customers by offering free alterations and free parking.

Barneys expanded and focused on the high-end lifestlye during the middle of the 20th Century, emerging as a major purveyor of luxury goods. Barneys also expanded geographically, opening its first store beyond the Big Apple in 1988 and opened its first international location in Tokyo in 1990.

Today, the flagship Barneys in New York is located in midtown. Like the store's other locations, it peddles goods produced by hard-to-find international designers. Products from the likes of Manolo Blahnik, Diane von Furstenberg and Ermenegildo Zegna dot the displays. Though the Pressman family sold its stake in the company in 2004, free parking is still available -- if you can find it on the street.

Cast your vote for the Readers' Choice Awards at http://www.luxist.com/awards-vote/accessories-awards.

Gallery: More from Barneys New York

LuxistBarneys New York: A Leader in Cutting-Edge Fashion originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 22:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awards-mainbarneysbarneys new yorkbarneysnewyorkluxist-awardsTue, 15 Dec 2009 22:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Luxist Giveaway: Philosophy Beauty Box]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/15/luxist-giveaway-philosophy-beauty-box/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/15/luxist-giveaway-philosophy-beauty-box/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/15/luxist-giveaway-philosophy-beauty-box/#commentsFiled under:

Free beauty!
Philosophy has teamed up with The Knot to create an ultimate bridal beauty box set called tying the Knot (above). The box, worth $100, is a lovely gift for a bride to be -- but we can't think of a woman who wouldn't love to receive this any day.

The set includes:
  • amazing grace firming body emulsion, bath gel and spray fragrance
  • purity one-step facial cleanser
  • hope in a jar moisturizer (Oprah's fave)
  • micro-delivery peel pads
  • kiss me clear lip balm, spf 20
  • kiss me exfoliating lip scrub
  • eye hope deluxe sample
Who needs a wedding when you have all that fun loot? Brides aren't the only ladies who want to be beautiful. This would even make a nice thank you gift to send to a holiday party hostess or your boyfriend's mother. No need to tell her it was free.
To enter to win the tying the Knot bag, leave a comment on this post sharing why you'd like it. The giveaway ends on Monday, December 21, 5 p.m. EST. See additional rules below.

* To enter, leave a confirmed comment below.
* The comment must be left and confirmed before Monday, December 21, 2009 at 5 p.m. EST.
* You may only enter once.
* One winner will be selected in a random drawing.
* One winner will receive one tying the Knot beauty bag by Philosophy, valued at $100.
* Open to legal residents of the 50 United States, and the District of Columbia, who are 18 and older.

See full giveaway rules here.

LuxistLuxist Giveaway: Philosophy Beauty Box originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bridecleansergiveawayphilosophyskin careSkinCarethe knotTheKnotTue, 15 Dec 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Lancôme Selects Julia Roberts as "Global Ambassadress"]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/07/lancome-selects-julia-roberts-as-global-ambassadres/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/07/lancome-selects-julia-roberts-as-global-ambassadres/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/07/lancome-selects-julia-roberts-as-global-ambassadres/#commentsFiled under: ,

Main Entry: am·bas·sa·dress
Pronunciation: \am-ˈba-sə-drəs, əm-, im-\
Function: noun
Date: 1594

1 : a woman who is an ambassador
2 : the wife of an ambassador

Lancôme has bestowed the first definition on Julia Roberts in the ongoing epic "Another Day, Another Celebrity Endorsement." Cynicism aside, Lancôme has, through the years, had a bevy of beautiful women endorsing its products -- Isabella Rossellini, Kate Winslet, Anne Hathaway, and numerous models. Roberts is the newest, according to a WWD exclusive:

"By her remarkable personality and career, Julia Roberts is an emblematic woman of her time," said Youcef Nabi, president of Lancôme International. "Her exceptional talent, her radiance, and her strong commitments perfectly echo Lancôme's values. We are convinced she will embody the brand in the most sublime way possible."

Lancôme executives declined to share details on the relationship between Roberts and the brand, including the amount the actress is being paid to sell the products, the length of her contract, and specific duties, saying more would be revealed early next year.

Roberts, who is said to command salaries upward of $20 million for her acting projects, is in post-production on two films - Eat, Pray, Love, and Valentine's Day.

The WWD article goes on to say that "getting Roberts - or any other star of her caliber - to appear in U.S. advertising a decade ago would have been a longshot, although many stars consented to appear in product advertising outside the U.S. ... however, the celebrity culture has become ubiquitous, and the stigma once associated with selling products to middle America seems to have disappeared."

LuxistLancôme Selects Julia Roberts as "Global Ambassadress" originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 22:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>celebritiescelebrityendorsementsJulia RobertsJuliaRobertsLancomemakeupMon, 07 Dec 2009 22:02:00 EST<![CDATA[What Is Mineral Makeup?]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/07/what-is-mineral-makeup/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/07/what-is-mineral-makeup/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/07/what-is-mineral-makeup/#commentsFiled under:

Mineral makeup is not a new concept but has only in the last few years exploded in popularity. The loose powder foundations and blushes, the most popular items, are light, finely ground loose minerals that are buffed into the skin using a wide, fluffy brush. The main ingredients (minerals such as mica, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide), have been the basis of most makeup foundations for decades, but many dermatologists report that because mineral makeup frequently eliminates classic irritants such as fragrances, binders, synthetic dyes, talc, and preservatives, it is considered purer and can be kinder to the skin.

Because titanium dioxide and zinc oxide have anti-inflammatory properties, certain mineral makeups can also have a calming effect on the skin, particularly important if you suffer from inflammatory problems such as rosacea or acne. Mineral makeup also is known for being noncomedogenic, and many manufacturers claim it also offers sun protection. This is mostly due to to the high content of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide -- two ingredients commonly found in traditional sunscreen. But mineral makeup does not replace sunscreen, rather, it adds a modicum of extra protection.

Many consumers say they are initially drawn to try mineral makeup because of skin health claims -- more specifically, that its pure formulations are safer and better for sensitive and acne- or rosacea-prone skin. Those who love it rave about the light, natural, long-lasting glow. Others, however, complain that it's drying, irritating, and accentuates wrinkles. Some say the colors have an ashy undertone that is a particular problem for ethnic skin types. Others says it's messy and expensive, but fans say the containers last an inordinately long time, and if you're careful when applying, it's no messier than any other makeup.

The bottom line is that mineral makeup is another option that, like all makeup, will be loved and used by some but not by all. While there are several "boutique" lines available -- BareMinerals, Sheer Cover -- mineral makeup can now be found as part of many major brands' lines and can be purchased in a drugstore or big box store.

Source: WebMD. Read the full article for more.

LuxistWhat Is Mineral Makeup? originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beauty-pediacadillac-pedialuxist-awardsmain-pediamakeupmineral makeupMineralMakeupMon, 07 Dec 2009 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Antiperspirants and Deodorants: Are they Safe or Bad for You?]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/07/antiperspirants-and-deodorants-are-they-safe-or-bad-for-you/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/07/antiperspirants-and-deodorants-are-they-safe-or-bad-for-you/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/07/antiperspirants-and-deodorants-are-they-safe-or-bad-for-you/#commentsFiled under:

Depending on who you ask, antiperspirants and deodorants are either toxic or safe. So which is it? According to the government, they are safe.

All antiperspirants, whether they are roll-ons, sticks or aerosols, contain aluminum (either aluminum chlorohydrate or aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex GLY). There is a belief that aluminum is a contributing factor connected to Alzheimer's and possibly other diseases.

According to the Alzheimer's Society, there is no conclusive medical or scientific evidence of a link between aluminum and Alzheimer's disease. "Aluminum is one of the most abundant minerals in the world, and worldwide research has not found any evidence that exposure to everyday levels of aluminum is a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease," states the Society on its website.

Some antiperspirants and deodorants also contain parabens, which are preservatives. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says there is no evidence or research data that ingredients in underarm antiperspirants or deodorants cause cancer. Parabens have been linked to breast cancer by at least one scientific study; the FDA found that this theory lacked sufficient evidence.

Since 2004, the FDA has required that all antiperspirant products containing aluminum include a warning that advises people with kidney disease to consult a physician before using the product. This warning is targeted toward patients with advanced kidney disease who may not be able to excrete the low levels of aluminum in the body that may result from the use of antiperspirant.

One its website, the FDA states "at the present time there is no reason for consumers to be concerned about the use of cosmetics containing parabens. However, the agency will continue to evaluate new data in this area. If FDA determines that a health hazard exists, the agency will advise the industry and the public, and will consider its legal options under the authority of the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act in protecting the health and welfare of consumers."

For those folks who would rather be safe than sorry, there are several products in the marketplace that provide antiperspirant and deodorant protection that are aluminum-free and paraben-free including Arm & Hammer Essentials and Herbal Clear.

LuxistAntiperspirants and Deodorants: Are they Safe or Bad for You? originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antiperspirantArm HammerArmHammerbeauty-pediadeodorantHerbal ClearHerbalClearluxist-awardsMon, 07 Dec 2009 08:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Luxist Gift Guide 09: Holiday Fragrance Sets]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/07/luxist-gift-guide-09-holiday-fragrance-sets/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/07/luxist-gift-guide-09-holiday-fragrance-sets/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/07/luxist-gift-guide-09-holiday-fragrance-sets/#commentsFiled under: ,


Luxury fragrances make some of the best holiday gifts. Finding a unique scent that becomes your lady's signature scent can become a gift you both enjoy throughout the year. We sniffed, viewed, and sampled some of the hottest new scents out this season, some traditonal, some non, and some simply divine, to bring you the absolute best gifts for the holiday to satisfy any variety of perfume wearing personalities.

Juliette Has a Gun

Romano Ricci knows a thing or two about perfume. The grandson of Robert Ricci (creator of the cult classic L'Air du Temps) established his own name after creating four killer scents under his Juliette Has a Gun line, the sexiest thing to come out of Paris in a long time. Created for a woman who wants a more masculine perfume (yes, please!), the newest bottle in the collection, Calamity J., is inspired by Calamity Jane, the first cowgirl to act, drink, and shoot like a man. This decadent scent, however, is made without the hesperide or dihydromircenol, which are present in 90% of men's fragrances. Actress Lou Doillon (below), daughter of singer Jane Birken and director Jacques Doillon, serves as the perfect muse for Calamity J, the perfect scent for a strong, fierce woman. Fans of the line will love Juliette's other decadent fragrances: Lady Vengeance is a sultry sweet musk made of Bulgarian Rose, Patchouli and Vanilla. For a lighter scent, Miss Charming has notes of Morrocan Rose, Musks and wild fruits, and Citizen Queen, which focuses on the delicate rose, harps on the elegant classicism of perfume of the 1950s. Juliette Has a Gun scents are truly deadly and not for the faint of heart. One spritz will make you swoon. Be careful because a little goes a long way.



Available from Henri Bendel, Studio Beauty Mix stores, and beautyhabit.com.




Continue reading Luxist Gift Guide 09: Holiday Fragrance Sets

LuxistLuxist Gift Guide 09: Holiday Fragrance Sets originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 06:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dawn spencer hurwitzDawnSpencerHurwitzholiday guidesHolidayGuidesjuliette has a gunJulietteHasAGunperfumescent guidesScentGuidesvan cleef arpelsVanCleefArpelsMon, 07 Dec 2009 06:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Would You Pay $60 for Mascara?]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/06/would-you-pay-60-for-mascara/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/06/would-you-pay-60-for-mascara/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/06/would-you-pay-60-for-mascara/#commentsFiled under:

Would You Pay $60 for Mascara?Seeing that Barney's New York is the exclusive vendor of the Serge Lutens Mascara Comb, that gives us a glimpse of the type of upscale customer who would indeed purchase this product. Lutens is a fragrance and make-up guru and creates his cosmetics collection of "exquisitely textured gems of color and deluxe formulations." This mascara has a comb wand, lash-by-lash applicator that purports to lengthen, refine, and shape lashes.

So, are you buying this claim, either figuratively or literally? Tell us in the poll below.

View Poll

LuxistWould You Pay $60 for Mascara? originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BarneyslutensmakeupmascaraSerge LutensSergeLutensSun, 06 Dec 2009 15:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Cartier Launches Les Heures du Parfum]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/05/cartier-launches-les-heures-du-parfum/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/05/cartier-launches-les-heures-du-parfum/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/05/cartier-launches-les-heures-du-parfum/#commentsFiled under:

Cartier is the latest brand to have created a second line of more exclusive scents grouped around a central theme (others include Chanel's Les Exclusifs and Tom Ford's Private Blends). Cartier's series is titled Les Heures du Parfum and the first five fragrances in the line of 13 were released last month at Saks Fifth Avenue. The scents were created by Mathilde Laurent, Cartier's in-house perfumer, who was given free reign to create distinctive olfactory experiences meant to evoke moods and settings. They are not being released in chronological order. Each bottle features the Roman numeral of the hour it represents.

I: L' Heure Promise--The Promising Hour has delicate notes of petitgrain, iris and sandalwood.
VI: L' Heure Brillante--The Shining Hour has sharp citrusy-herbal notes of lemon and gin.
X: L' Heure Folle-- The Crazy Hour is vibrantly fruity with notes of blackcurrant and blueberry.
XII: 'L'Heure Mystérieuse--The Mysterious Hour intoxicates with touches of jasmine and patchouli.
XIII: 'La Treizième Heure-- The Thirteenth Hour seduces with notes of narcissus, leather and maté.

Each one sells for $250 for 2.5 ounces. Two more will be released each following year.

LuxistCartier Launches Les Heures du Parfum originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cartierfragrancesles heuresLesHeuresparfumperfumescentsSat, 05 Dec 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Bond No. 9 Creates New Orleans Scent]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/02/bond-no-9-creates-new-orleans-scent/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/02/bond-no-9-creates-new-orleans-scent/http://www.luxist.com/2009/12/02/bond-no-9-creates-new-orleans-scent/#commentsFiled under:

Perfume company Bond No.9 has covered just about every neighborhood in New York with a distinctive fragrance but the brand has taken on the Big Easy for a new Saks Fifth Avenue exclusive scent. Bond No. 9's New Orleans scent includes notes of cinnamon and sandalwood, tuberose, violet leaf, cassis and vanilla. The bottle has a Swarovski crystal fleur de lis on the bottle. The scent launches on December 4 and Laurice Rahme of Bond no. 9 will be at the New Orleans Saks to sign bottles on December 4 and December 5 from 11 am to 6 pm. It sells for $325.

LuxistBond No. 9 Creates New Orleans Scent originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 02:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bond no 9BondNo9new orleansNewOrleansperfumesaks fifth avenueSaksFifthAvenueWed, 02 Dec 2009 02:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Zappos Opens the Door to Its VIP Club, Four Days Only]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/27/zappos-opens-the-door-to-its-vip-club-four-days/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/27/zappos-opens-the-door-to-its-vip-club-four-days/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/27/zappos-opens-the-door-to-its-vip-club-four-days/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Zappos Opens the Door to Its VIP Club, Four Days OnlyShoe paradise Zappos is opening the doors to its VIP Club during a special four-day window from Black Friday, November 27, through Cyber Monday, November 30. Starting at 12:01 a.m. on Friday and lasting until midnight on Monday only, log onto to the special holiday VIP Club page and join for free, overnight shipping forever.

My love for Zappos has been documented on this site, plus all my friends and family know too. I am a hazard to my budget when I get within an inch of the site. But keep watching my posts on Luxist for more from Zappos, including great holiday gift ideas -- Zappos also carries bags, clothing, housewares, beauty items, and more -- a gift card giveaway, design contests, and more about its Couture section, which is what Luxist readers really care about, right?

UPDATE: The holiday VIP promotion has ended, but you can join Zappos's VIP waiting list here.

LuxistZappos Opens the Door to Its VIP Club, Four Days Only originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apparelbeautyclothingclubshandbagsshoesVIPZapposFri, 27 Nov 2009 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Smell Like Michael Jackson? My DNA Antiquity Fragrance Line]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/18/smell-like-michael-jackson-my-dna-antiquity-fragrance-line/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/18/smell-like-michael-jackson-my-dna-antiquity-fragrance-line/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/18/smell-like-michael-jackson-my-dna-antiquity-fragrance-line/#commentsFiled under:

We've already seen the promise of a Michael Jackson diamond using his DNA, now a new line of fragrances offers the scent of a variety of celebrities based on their DNA. One of the first offerings is M, based on the DNA of Michael Jackson. My DNA Fragrance has created the "Antiquity" line of fragrances which will include dead celebrities like Elvis Presley, Albert Einstein, Marilyn Monroe, Joan Crawford and Katherine Hepburn. The firm already makes individualized scents for living customers based on the analysis of a customer's cheek swab. DNA tests performed on hair clippings provided by celebrity hair collector John Reznikoff are used to develop the scents of these luminaries. The Antiquity line sells for $59.99 per bottle and is available online. What does M smell like? The website is vague saying that it is "composed of the lightest, but most volatile essences."

[via Now Smell This]

LuxistSmell Like Michael Jackson? My DNA Antiquity Fragrance Line originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dna fragranceDnaFragrancefragrancemichael jacksonMichaelJacksonmy dna fragranceMyDnaFragranceperfumeWed, 18 Nov 2009 19:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Win A Bottle Of ckfree for Men ]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/16/win-a-bottle-of-ckfree-for-men/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/16/win-a-bottle-of-ckfree-for-men/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/16/win-a-bottle-of-ckfree-for-men/#commentsFiled under:

ckfree for MenSometimes it's a little sad for us to only give away only one of something so today we've got ten bottles of Calvin Klein's latest perfume, ckfree for Men for ten readers. To launch the fragrance Calvin Klein has created the "Live Free" Map tool. The tool is an interactive experience which shows you the best places in the world to "live free" and lets consumers share their most 'free' locations around the world, using Google Map software. What defines free? It's not a matter of cost, it's about experiences that make the heart and mind feel lighter. The list includes best beaches, sporting stadiums, casinos, road trip destinations and more.

The scent is designed to be a journey as well. It has top notes of absinthe, jackfruit and juniper berry with a masculine heart of suede, coffee absolute and tobacco leaves grounded in a base of oakwood, patchouli and Texan cedarwood. We are giving away 10 1.7 ounce bottles of ckfree valued at $47 each. To enter leave a comment about your favorite 'free' place (you can also add this place to the ckfree 'Live Free' map application).

Some other important details:
* To enter, leave a confirmed comment below.
* The comment must be left and confirmed before November 20, 2009 at 5:00PM Eastern Time.
* You may only enter once.
* Ten winners will be selected in a random drawing.
* Ten winner will receive a 1.7 ounce bottle of ckfree for Men valued at $47.
* Open to legal residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia.

See complete contest rules here.

This contest is now closed. Thank you for your participation.

LuxistWin A Bottle Of ckfree for Men originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>calvin kleinCalvinKleinckfreeckfree for menCkfreeForMengiveawaymenMon, 16 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Luxist Gift Guide 09: Sensai Holiday Gift Sets]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/06/luxist-gift-guide-09-sensai-holiday-gift-sets/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/06/luxist-gift-guide-09-sensai-holiday-gift-sets/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/06/luxist-gift-guide-09-sensai-holiday-gift-sets/#commentsFiled under: ,



If only Pamela Anderson had discovered the new SENSAI Platinum Edition Coffret Gift Set, before she let her platinum addiction drive her into bankruptcy. The new luxury gift set out just in time for the holidays offers for the first time ever, platinum, in a soft pearl powder and highlighting platinum body lotion. If that sounds decadent to you, it is. Forget the latest diamond cremes, platinum is the new luxury ingredient, straight from the renowned Japanese beauty line, which counts Scarlett Johansson and Jennifer Aniston as fans. The Platinum Gift Set, which includes the powder, flawless brush, and body lotion packaged in a velvet clutch is available exclusively at Bergdorf Goodman, and retails for $80. It's literally all you need to take to any party this season. But use sparingly. A brush of powder is all you need to make your whole face glow.

Continue reading Luxist Gift Guide 09: Sensai Holiday Gift Sets

LuxistLuxist Gift Guide 09: Sensai Holiday Gift Sets originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cosmeticsholiday gift guideholiday giftsHolidayGiftGuideHolidayGiftssensaiskin careSkinCareFri, 06 Nov 2009 14:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Ensuring a Safe Manicure and Pedicure]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/05/ensuring-a-safe-manicure-and-pedicure/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/05/ensuring-a-safe-manicure-and-pedicure/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/05/ensuring-a-safe-manicure-and-pedicure/#commentsFiled under: ,

manicureMillions of women (and a few men) visit nail salons regularly to have their nails done. Unfortunately, occasionally the result of having manicures or pedicures is developing nail fungus or bacterial infections that can not only look bad, but also may also feel even worse. A few simple steps before your next salon service can significantly lower your risk of developing a painful nail infection or fungus, or worse, a more serious disease.

Check out the salon for cleanliness and safety precautions. Don't be afraid to ask for a quick tour if you are considering a new salon, or asking the owner or manager of your current salon what steps they take to ensure safety. And take a look around. Does the salon look clean and sanitary? Is the trash container properly bagged and covered? Is the floor clean? Are the manicure tables kept neat and tidy? Is there good light? Look at the disinfectant containers and make sure that they are clear, clean, and free of debris.

Next, check the station where your service will take place. Ask if all instruments are cleaned and disinfected (even better: autoclaved) after each use, and if you need proof, have the technician show you the cleaning area or solution. Does he or she use fresh, clean instruments on each client? Make sure all files, buffers, and anything else that touches you is freshly clean before you allow the technician to begin. Also, the technician should wash his or her hands before and after each client, or wear fresh gloves. Clean towels should be used for every client.

Avoid having your cuticles cut. Cuticles serve a purpose -- they protect the nail bed from allowing infection to enter. If you like how your nails look with them pushed back, ask for cuticle softener, rather than cuticle scissors. After the cuticles are softened, the technician can wipe away, or gently scrape away, the excess with a fresh orangewood stick.

Pedicures can be a bit riskier because of the hot water and tub. Make sure the tub is thoroughly drained, cleaned, and disinfected between clients. The steps where clients typically step with bare feet also should be cleaned and disinfected between clients.

One way to avoid many of these concerns is to buy your own manicure or pedicure kit and bring it with you. Make sure you clean and disinfect your kit after each use, even if you are the only one using it. You also can bring your own nail polish, base coat, and top coat. Remove your old nail polish at home, or bring nail polish remover with you.

The salon and technician should both be licensed by their state governing board, usually the board of cosmetology. The licenses should be clearly displayed.

If sanitary precautions are not being taken at your salon, politely but firmly tell the owner what needs to change and what you expect. Contact your state cosmetology board if you develop a nail infection, fungus, or other condition as a result of visiting a salon, or if you see unsanitary practices.

LuxistEnsuring a Safe Manicure and Pedicure originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beauty-pediacadillac-pediamain-pediamanicurepedicuresalonsalonsThu, 05 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Le Labo's City Exclusives Available For All For One Month]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/03/le-labos-city-exclusives-available-for-all-for-one-month/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/03/le-labos-city-exclusives-available-for-all-for-one-month/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/03/le-labos-city-exclusives-available-for-all-for-one-month/#commentsFiled under:

Can a scent capture a city? Many try but few with as much aplomb as the City Exclusive scents from Le Labo. The boutique perfumer has created six scents for the cities in which there are Le Labo shops. Usually each scent is only available in the city it was created for but fron now until November 30, the six scents are available on luckyscent.com

Tuberuese 40 (New York) is a tuberose and white flower scent. Aldehyde 44 (Dallas) combines narcissus, jasmine, musk and vanilla. Gaiac 10 (Tokyo) is a woodsy musk with hints of cedar and incense. Musc 25 (Los Angeles) is a musk with notes of vetiver, ambergris, lily of the valley, patchouli and rose absolute. Poivre 23 (London) combines the warmth of pepper with cistus, gaiac, patchouli, incense, Australian sandalwood, vanilla absolute and styrax resin. Vanille 44 (Paris) brings vanilla together with bergamot, incense and mandarin. There are just 25 bottles of each scent available and 50 ml sells for a steep $260.

[via All the Rage]

LuxistLe Labo's City Exclusives Available For All For One Month originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 01:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fragrancele laboLeLaboperfumescentTue, 03 Nov 2009 01:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Pamela Anderson's New Perfume Line]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/01/pamela-andersons-new-perfume-line/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/01/pamela-andersons-new-perfume-line/http://www.luxist.com/2009/11/01/pamela-andersons-new-perfume-line/#commentsFiled under: ,

malibu scentPamela Anderson is stepping into the perfume game with two iterations of her Malibu fragrance named after the beachside town she calls home. Malibu Day/Malibu Pink is a fruity floral with notes of berries, white flowers, vanilla and ambered sandalwood. Malibu Night/Malibu Blue is a moodier scent, an oriental with notes of pomegranate, black orchid mahogany wood, lotus, patchouli and amber.

As Anderson describes it on her website she's been making her own products for years layering various scents. She says that her goal was to "create a fun, sexy fragrance that really captured the beach with soft, gentle touches in a way that lingers." Starting this month, Malibu Day and Malibu Night are going to retail for $39 (1.7oz) and $49 (3.4oz) at CVS/Pharmacy, Rite Aid, Walgreens, Nordstrom, Sears and other department stores and drugstores around the U.S. Maybe this new line will help pay off some of the $4.8 million in debt she has reportedly amassed because of some pricey home renovations.

[via Now Smell This]

LuxistPamela Anderson's New Perfume Line originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 01 Nov 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>celebrity fragranceCelebrityFragrancefragrancepamela andersonPamelaAndersonSun, 01 Nov 2009 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Claridge's Debuts Exclusive Dior Dressing Table]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/29/claridges-debuts-exclusive-dior-dressing-table/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/29/claridges-debuts-exclusive-dior-dressing-table/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/29/claridges-debuts-exclusive-dior-dressing-table/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Famed French fashion house Dior has created a bespoke, Art Deco-inspired dressing table service for guests of Claridge's, the landmark London hotel (above) whose devotees include Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Nicole Kidman, Kate Moss, Mick Jagger, Madonna and Victoria Beckham. Designed as the ultimate luxury amenity for glamorous occupants of the hotel's Viscount David Linley-designed suites, the service offers all the essentials necessary for a glamorous night out on the town. The Dior Dressing Table includes a carefully curated range of timeless accessories, including an elegant silk Claridge's dressing gown and slippers; a cashmere eye mask; a selection of classic Dior fragrances and beauty products; cocktails from a special 1930s menu; and era-appropriate books and music for entertainment.

[via JustLuxe]

LuxistClaridge's Debuts Exclusive Dior Dressing Table originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Angelina JolieAngelinaJolieArt DecoArtDecobeautyChristian DiorChristianDiorClaridgesDavid LinleyDavidLinleyDiorhotelLondonThu, 29 Oct 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Godiva Candle Collection, Mmmm]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/28/godiva-candle-collection-mmmm/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/28/godiva-candle-collection-mmmm/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/28/godiva-candle-collection-mmmm/#commentsFiled under: ,

Godiva Candle Collection, MmmmChocolatier Godiva recently introduced its Home Fragrance Collection of five candles, in collaboration with Laura Slatkin, wife of Harry, of Slatkin & Co.

The nicely-packaged candles come in five scents: Holiday Peppermint Bark, Milk Chocolate Truffle, Black Almond Truffle, White Chocolate Magnolia, and Raspberry Ganache.

The candles are the brand's first foray into the home fragrance category in its more-than 80-year history and represent a departure from Godiva's traditional culinary products.

Neiman Marcus carries the collection. One of these would make a lovely host gift. Reasonably priced at $22.50 each.

LuxistGodiva Candle Collection, Mmmm originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>candlecandleschocolateGodivaWed, 28 Oct 2009 15:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Pretty Woman, The Song Becomes A Scent]]>http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/27/pretty-woman-the-song-becomes-a-scent/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/27/pretty-woman-the-song-becomes-a-scent/http://www.luxist.com/2009/10/27/pretty-woman-the-song-becomes-a-scent/#commentsFiled under:

Perfumes based on song titles are a bit of an iffy proposition but there could hardly be a better name geared to perfume than Pretty Woman. Barbara Orbison, the widow of "Pretty Woman" singer Roy Orbison, has developed Pretty Woman perfume. Barbara Orbison was involved in every step of the development of the fragrance from its bottle design in Paris to the formulation of the scent. The fragrance has a top note with a bergamot accent, a heart of stargazer lily, red rose and carnation and a base of fresh amber, patchouli, vanilla, atlas cedar and sacred incense. It sells for $80.

[via Now Smell This]

LuxistPretty Woman, The Song Becomes A Scent originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 23:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barbara orbisonBarbaraOrbisonpretty womanpretty woman perfumePrettyWomanPrettyWomanPerfumeroy orbisonRoyOrbisonTue, 27 Oct 2009 23:01:00 EST