Beauty Maverick

Bliss FatGirlSlim

Am I missing something? This is the second time I've tried this 'cult favorite' product with no results. No slimming effect, no firming of the skin, it really felt no different from a basic drugstore body lotion.

Retailer: Sephora
Cost: $29.00

T. LeClerc Eyeliner vs. Givenchy Parad'Eyes Fluid Eye Liner

T. LeClerc Claim: This eye liner has a luxurious fluid texture that dries instantly and allows for an easy, uniform application.

Givenchy Claim: This eye opening liquid liner contains a high concentration of pigments with a sprinkling of mother-of-pearl particles for a unique, long lasting intensity that will not run or flake.

Price: $20.00 for T. LeClerc; $27.00 for Givenchy

Brush: T. LeClerc 8/10; Givenchy 9/10

Formulation: T. LeClerc 8.5/10; Givenchy 9/10

Wear: T. LeClerc 9/10; Givenchy 9.5/10

Summary: Both of these liquid liners tested wonderfully, but Givenchy's brush allowed for a more precise application and the pigment was far more rich.

Winner of this eye liner comparison: Givenchy Parad'Eyes Fluid Eye Liner available at Sephora.com.

Alba Botanica Moisturizing Cream Shave

Warning: this product is highly addictive and lasts a lifetime (a little goes a very long way!).

Use this heavenly shaving balm and you'll notice softer skin and a closer shave after just one application. I personally love the Mango Vanilla scent but the Coconut Lime is worth a try if you find my favorite a little too sweet.

Retailer: Drugstore.com
Cost: $5.99

Lucy B. Frangipani Bronzing Shimmer Oil

If you dislike self-tanning lotions as much as I do, this product will save your skin this summer. Use this magical liquid on your face, body or even hair (yes, you read correctly!) for a soft glow that won't leave your palms a creepy shade of chemical orange.

A discreetly multi-tasking product, this Shimmer Oil does more than just nourish and bronze. Infused with mood-boosting Australian floral extracts including Southern Cross (increases positivity), Dog Rose (said to reduce inhibitions), and Sturt's Desert Rose (boosts confidence), this product helps to naturally lift your spirits too.

Retailer: Lucy B.
Cost: $38.00

Dior Flight Collection

After having an assortment of my most prized toiletries thrown in the bin by a nasty security guard due to their size, I've been on the hunt for a palette I can use for travel (and in my desk drawer at the office for quick touch-ups when grounded). 

This lovely little palette is simple in design, basic to use, and holds timeless shades that are universally flattering. Not characteristics I'd generally associate with Dior, a house more synonymous with avant garde creations, but this product is truly a 'must have' for all flights moving forward.

Contains a smoky shadow with sponge applicator, flesh pink lip gloss, and a pink blush with brush.

Retailer: Neiman Marcus
Cost: $55.00

Youthful Innocence

Evoking the youthful spirit of the early '60s, many designers opted for a (seemingly) bare, fresh face for Fall 2007.

From Marc Jacobs' collection to the runways of Anna Sui and Carolina Herrera, many designers have given us their own unique offering of innocence in beauty this season.

To achieve this polished but natural look, use a shimmery nude shadow on the eyes and a high-shine lip gloss that works with the natural color of your lips.

Miller Harris Feuilles de Tabac EDP

Yes, this is typically a men's fragrance but I absolutely love it. Come to think of it, I don't know if it's the masculinity I'm drawn to or the smoky, rich scent itself.

Wear this fragrance in the summer for a contrast to the floral or citrus scents that surround you or use it in the winter to appreciate the dark, sexy notes that intrigue the senses.

Retailer: Saks.com
Cost: $79.00 for 1.7 oz; $120.00 for 3.4 oz

Annick Goutal Masque Splendide

Generally, I wouldn't buy my facial care products from a brand who built their business on perfume, but this pretty little pink jar was hard to resist.

After the only the first application, my skin felt hydrated and soft to the touch. I adore this product but don't recommend using it more than once every other week unless you have dry skin.

Retailer: Barneys
Cost: $85.00

Jo Malone Candles

Whether you're extremely wealthy or unable to squeeze much more on your Amex this month, these candles are a not a luxury but a simple necessity.

My favorites for the season are the Lime Blossom and Orange Blossom, both of which have kept my apartment beautifully scented without becoming overpowering...
I've been officially converted (formerly a Diptyque addict).

Retailer: JoMalone.com
Cost: $95.00 for three Travel Candles, $65.00 for the Home Candle, and $345.00 for the Luxury Candle

Spot Removers

The best ways to banish a blemish.

Santa Maria Novella Orange Blossom Water $25
Tammy Fender Clarifying Dermagel $72
Philosophy The Supernatural Oil Control Blotting Papers $10
Shiseido Pureness Anti-Shine Refreshing Lotion $21.50
Kate Somerville Clearing Mask $45
REN Jojoba Micro Bead Purifying Facial Scrub $35
CARE by Stella McCartney Purifying Foaming Cleanser $35
Ole Henriksen Roll-On Blemish Attack $22
Benefit Galactic Shield! Concealing Wand with Salicylic Acid $20