Winter is usually that “in between” season when it comes to lips and lip products. You need balm to stay moist, hydrated, kissable and not chapped. But goopy gloss can be too messy, especially when it’s windy and you don’t need your hair adhering to your face, thanks to your sticky gloss! Lipstick can be further drying on already moisture-seeking lips. What’s a girl to do?

Grab any of the seven new shades of Clinique’s Almost Lipstick, that’s what. It’s a glossy, air-light lipstick that offers soft, supple texture that glides on your pucker with a hint of shine. You can be a gloss girl living in a lipstick world with these miracle-working tubes, which house transparent hues that mesh with your own natural lip color to create a custom shade that is formulated from your own DNA, sort of! Plus, they’re all named and modeled after Clinque’s holy grail and iconic lip product – Black Honey.

As is to be expected with do-no-wrong brand Clinique, the sticks come in several shades in the nude, pink and berry families. I paired Shy Honey (a pink as soft as an angel kiss) with smoky eyes, and Lovely Honey (a richer yet muted berry) with white eyeliner on my lower lids and loads of mascara. I also went a la carte with Tender Honey (a soft cocoa) and of course, Black Honey. The sheer hues mean you have nothing to fear this winter but lipsticklessness!

Since I travel every six to eight weeks, I adore products that multi-task, pack easily and travel well, like Laura Mercier’s limited edition Spring 2012 Lingerie Eye & Cheek Palette. The book-like packaging makes for easy, effective, space-saving storage yet provide multiple options for makeup looks, thanks to the femme, flirty, Victorian-inspired color family. The shadow palette contains plenty of matte neutrals (Rich Cocoa, Pale Pink and Black Plum), frosty lusters (Buff Pearl, African Violet) and a sateen cream-to-powder base (Tawny Apricot.) You can create any look you’d like -smoldering, sexy, simple, you name it. Just like your intimates and undies. There’s peach and pink cheek colors, too. Love, love, love! It’s only available for another month, so stock up on the quick.

Oh, and while we’ve got you here, Laura Mercier has also introduced another LE collection, called “Sheer.Bold.Tres.Chic” for lips and nails, two of our most crucial places to deposit color! Mercier hasn’t offered up a nail collection in years, so to we’re psyched about her return to lacquering! The lip and nail shades are complementary. You get lip-hugging Gel Lip Colour formulation and the high-sheen digits. We are partial to the extra-pale Oh La La (pictured above) and the summer-ready coral of Cabana (also above.) What more could you need, especially for Valentine’s Day. Go with these for a no-fuss, pretty look.

If the doldrums of winter are giving you the blues, don’t reach for the prescription bottle or a tub of Ben and Jerry’s Peanut Butter Cup ice cream. May we suggest a more natural (and calorie-free) mood elevator in the form of Lancome’s new Rosearie Des Delices Spring 2012 Collection by the always brilliant Aaron De Mey? The La Roseraie Illuminating Powder is a multi-color powder blush embossed with a delicate rose, which’ll instantly brighten up your visage while filling the space in your mind to the blooms of spring, while the Color Design 5 Pan Shadow and Liner Palette in Rose Romance and Vert Tendresse are fun to play with and create new looks with. The Color Fever Gloss in Green Petal may look appletini in the tube but when swiped on your pout, it’s a honey-glazed effect. Can you say “New Fave?” We can! Is it spring yet?

Bobbi Brown was inspired by her rose gold wedding ring for her new Rose Gold collection, which shimmers softly and offers “instant prettiness.” The Shimmer Bricks in this collection are “must own.” The “Rose Gold” is more gold-flecked, while the “Wild Rose” is more pink in tone. Dust this double-baked delicacy on cheeks and it’s like a bronzer and blush in one! Brown also said a trip to Italy also inspired these compacts, as she fell in love with the look of mosaic tile floors and translated that influence to one of her signature products. The company ships a shimmer brick ever seven seconds, making it one of the line’s best sellers. Don’t be left behind. Grab one of these LE babies ASAP.

As we’ve said time and time again, winter is murder on the lips. My lips get pinker, darker and fuller during the cold months, and not in a good way. It’s the elements irritating them, and I slather on Smith’s Rosebud Salve, Maybelline’s Baby Lips and Sara Happ’s The Lip Slip by the pound, but I still get windburned, chapped lips. Thank the beauty gods for Sensai’s Total Lip Treatment. When a PR rep tells me that luscious-lipped ladies like Angelina Jolie and Scarlett Johansson use this emollient, softening, works-on-a-cellular level product, I’m game! Let’s face it — who doesn’t want Angie’s or Scar Jo’s pout?

If I can use eye cream, I can use lip cream, too, since that’s essentially what this is. It doesn’t add that much more time to my routine and the thought of a beautiful pout was reason enough to do a little more. I applied the rich, softening moisturizer before I went to bed and woke up with softer, fuller lips. The science says that it increases collagen synthesis and while that sounds like “Blah blah blah” to me, I cannot argue with the result.

My lips were so full and healthy that I was inspired to swipe the extra-creamy Sensai the Lipstick in Sawarabi (a reddish, berryish, purplish shade that stains nicely with a little blotting action, thanks to my trusty Boscia Rose Blotting Linens!) on them as a celebratory measure. Bonus points are earned thanks to the angled bullet and chic black velvet pouch that the lipstick lives in. Love a lil’ lip mystery.

Another lip balm that has been saving my lips from a hellish existence this winter is Splurge Skincare’s Lemon Lip Buttah. The company, which specialize in skincare products, also offers a deliciously citrusy, cushiony balm. The products are natural and organic, and the line was started by two pals and school teachers up in Boston (so they know how cold it gets) that wanted to mesh quality with confidence about what you put on your skin. It’s merely another quality balm to feed my addiction!

OK party people, it’s super-crunch time! The apps are being passed and the cider’s being spiked. Now it’s time to get your gifts on! Here’s a quick rundown to cover some of the coolest chicks you know…

For the” girly girl” beauty lover:

Tarte’s Puttin’ on the Glitz (limited-edition) color collection & clutch includes an old Hollywood-inspired metallic faux-python leather silver clutch, three interchangeable palettes chockfull of shadows, bronzer. blush, and a one shade-fits-all gloss.

http://tartecosmetics.com

The Smashbox Be Discovered holiday palette has got everything—quite possibly the only thing you’d ever need to skip town carrying! Among the wonder-set’s highlights are 45 shadows, 9 Cream Eye Liners, 4 mini brushes, and 6 glosses. Check it out at http://smashbox.com

For the “keepin’ it real” skincare lover:

Clarisonic is a must-have for any skincare fanatic, and Sephora’s Mia Sonic Skin Cleansing System is a can’t-miss gift! The kit includes the awesome travel-friendly Clarisonic Mia and four award-winning skin care formulation samples. Head over to the Westfield Sherman Oaks Macy’s or Sephora to pick one up.

The TRIA Hair Removal Laser is a godsend for the smooth ‘n’ bare-obsessed. It’s truly the ultimate gift this season for these skincare enthusiasts! This laser technology provides the same lasting results as the doctor’s office, but done from the comfort of home. Check it out at http://www.triabeauty.com.

DISCLAIMER: it’s probably best to make sure you know someone is interested in hair-removal before gifting this type of item. Just a suggestion.

For she who likes to light one up:

L’Artisan Parfumeur has a gorgeous trio of Mini scented candle coffrets. These babies will make her home feel like she’s relaxing with a good book under a giant tree in Tuscany. Scents include Mûre Sauvage, Oranger en Fleurs and Intérieur Figuier. http://www.artisanparfumeur.com/

Created by Romano Ricci, the Juliette Has a Gun collection is filled with a fragrance dichotomy of rock ‘n’ roll elegance. If she likes Dyptique’s Feu de Bois scent, introduce her to his slightly edgier cousin Lucifer. Find ‘em at Planet Blue Escentials in Malibu or BeautyHabit.com.

For the “Sugar ‘n’ Spice” girl:

For the girl who likes life on the sweet side, the products from Lalicious are a taste of heaven. True story, the Brown Sugar & Vanilla scrub will make you want to eat your arm right there in the shower! Surf over to Lalicious.com and grab a few Collection Gift Sets ASAP.

Known for their oddly enticing bacon and chocolate concoctions, Vosges isn’t your ordinary candy shop. For the girl (or guy) who likes to mix up their sweet and savory a bit, arrive with their silver Holiday Gift Box in-hand! The collection comes wrapped in signature grosgrain ribbon and is a total reflection of the chic shop itself. Set includes: Holiday Truffle Collection, Holiday Gingerbread Toffee, and Holiday Mini Candy Bar Library. Shop ‘til your heart’s content at the Beverly Hills location or check out http://www.vosgeschocolate.com.

A gift certificate to the Hotel Bel-Air Spa by La Prairie is all the stuffing any stocking could ask for! All her favorite La Prairie products—Luminous White Caviar, Platinum Rare, etc—are front and center at this gorgeous new haven on the hotel property. Give her the gift of lavish pampering! http://www.hotelbelair.com/la-prairie-spa

For the girl who loves being pampered, but doesn’t need all the frill, book her some time at Ona Spa on Beverly Blvd. They just rang in their 10 Year Anniversary and are in full celebration-mode. This month they’re offering 15% off of all Ona Spa Polish treatments and moisturizing body wraps. http://www.onaspa.com/

Happy Holidays to All!

As if waiting on a crazy long Black Friday line to get at 46” TV for $200 wasn’t enough of a headache, then there’s stocking stuffers. Though these extra treats may not seem like a hassle, they can be for those weary of whipping out their wallets. So here’s a list of ten lovely little items that are sure to please while being doable on any budget.

Fresh: Sugar Lust Set
This may seem like a large item to fit in a stocking. But the lip polish, lip treatment, and body cream all fit inside the luxurious make-up bag with room to spare. Once your loved one sees not one, but four fantastic Fresh items in their stocking, they won’t wait to spot a mistletoe to give you a big kiss!

Available at http://www.sephora.com

Hello Kitty: Liquid Nail Art

What’s particularly awesome about Hello Kitty nail polish is how versatile it is. You can easily gift this to someone who’s six or 60. Between the color selection, durability, and design of the bottle, I seriously can’t think of any female that wouldn’t want this kitty for Christmas!

Available at http://www.sephora.com

JESSICA: Shine On Collection

Not sure what’s more striking about this the collection- the bold colors or bulb bottles. Though red, gold, and shimmery white are typical colors for this season, these polishes are super vibrant. The colors really seem to pop off your nails and this intensity lasts for days after applying. The bottles are super cute bulb shapes which are also celebratory of the approaching New Year…

Available at http://www.jessicacosmetics.com

Kat Von D: Art of Elysium Palettes

Kat Von D is known for her dynamic make-up hues, so when I spotted these palettes I was a little confused. Then I discovered these limited edition shadows benefit a non-profit -The Art of Elysium- where celebs donate their time to sick children and they create art together. 10 percent of the sales go to the AOE, so you’d be giving in more ways than one with this purchase.

Available at http://www.sephora.com

Bath & Body Works: PocketBacs Sanitizing Hand Gel
Bath and Body Works always has the cutest things for any occasion. So it’s no surprise that their Holiday PocketBacs are out of this world. From the Gingerbread to the Cranberry, everything smells absolutely delicious! Also, it never hurts to have some sanitizer handy. Plus, they can be tucked into any stocking.

Available at http://www.bbw.com

Liplicious: Lip Gloss

While you’re in BBW picking up some PocketBacs you should also grab some Liplicious glosses. They come in a variety of yummy flavors like marshmallow, snickerdoodle and cocoa and are pretty long-wearing. The shine is incredible too; wearing will likely rival the shine of most overly decorated houses.

Available at http://www.bbw.com

LORAC: Bejeweled Lip Gloss Collection
This is a fantastic set of glosses that stick without being sticky and shine beautifully. Also, the range of colors this set comes with is simply outstanding. Some of the deeper colors are ideal for the snow and cold, while the sheer pink and white would be excellent for spring and summer.

Available at http://www.sephora.com

MAKE UP FOR EVER: Wild & Chic Aqua Eyes Collection

Light weight and waterproof – can you really ask for more from an eye liner? I certainly can’t. These are fantastic not only because of the bold color arrangement or lasting wear, but also because they’re so compact. These will fit in the tiniest of makeup cases or clutches.

Available at http://www.sephora.com

SEPHORA COLLECTION: Mascara and Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover

This Sephora mascara fluffs up your lashes and the eye make-up remover effortlessly brings them back to original form. The best thing about both these items is that they’re great for sensitive eyes/skin. The tiniest piece of anything that gets in my eye and I’m tearing up a storm. Not the case with these though – seriously, the perfect duo!

Available at http://www.sephora.com

ybf: Royalty Collectible Pewter Lipstick

Incredible is really the only word to describe this lipstick. The casing is a beautiful, intricately designed, pewter shell while the lipstick itself is luscious, moisturizing, and lasting. Any woman would be out of their mind to not fall head over jingle-belled feet for this lipstick!

Available at http://www.ybfgirlfriends.com

You’ve done it again. It’s two weeks before Christmas and you’ve put off shopping. Whether you are shopping for your lady love, your best girlfriend, your mom, your sister or any other makeup maven in your life, it’s Beauty News NYC to the rescue with this nifty gift guide to solve all of your “Oh s!@#! I waited too long and time is of the essence” problems and to help you complete your “mission critical” shopping excursion.

So relax, take a deep breath, inhale, exhale and go, go, go!

Dilemma: You got her a gift certificate to the manicure place last year and want to do something new and different.

Solution: Celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann created a collection of holiday nail polishes inspired by the vitality of New York City during the holidays. I Love the Nightlife, a “right now” graphite with glitter, will see her through New Year’s eve, while Glamorous Life is a metallic rose gold inspired be a Rolex. It took Lippmann three years to achieve this shade, so the least you can do is gift a friend with this labor-of-love neutral. We love it on our fingers and toes. So will she.

Dilemma: She loves chocolates, but is watching her figure.

Solution: Look no further than Vincent Longo’s Amaretto Collection Velvet Baked Eye Shadows, which are packaged like rich, opulent and decadent chocolates inside a sleek, black box that looks like it should house a pricey bauble! The glittery shadows are baked with diamond sparkles to ensure she has the prettiest eyes in the room. Baked to perfection, yet calorie-free.

Dilemma: She is on the cutting edge of all classic items so you are not sure what she won’t have,

Solution: She’ll appreciate the Guerlain’s Belle de Nuit holiday color collection. May we recommend Meteorites Perles de Nuit? The lacquered, rich blue sphere contains five color smooth pearls that, when blended with a big and fluffy brush, illuminate the skin with a post-orgasmic glow. The color quintet is designed to reflect and capture light. She’ll look lit from within and she’ll plant a big smooch on your cheek when she opens this gift. The night sky is also represented via the Les Ombres de Nuit 4-Colour Palette. Blues, grays and extra-matte black assist in the creation of midnight blue smoky eyes.

Available at fine department stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus, as well as Sephora.

Dilemma: She’s really particular about her favorite colors and formulas.

Solution: Nab Sephora’s Prestige Brush Collection. Let her choose between cream and powder shadow or blush and black or brown mascara on her own. Give her these tools of the trade and she’ll love you forever.

Dilemma: She already has every MAC Lip Gloss, Lancome eye liner and NARS lipstick there is.

Solution: Introduce her to something fabulously new, with Charlotte Ronson’s Masquerade Collection Set. Ronson is best known as a boho chic designer and she issued her first line of makeup this Fall. The holiday set features a black snakeskin makeup bag, For Your Eyes Only Pamela eye shadow palette boasts a distinctly California color spectrum, thanks to the sky blue and sandy beige, and the cherry red Hedi and deep berry Fabiola mini lipsticks will inspire you to try darker hues. You can always apply, blot and allow them to stain your lips, and then top with clear gloss, which I did since red never, ever looks good on me!

Dilemma: You need something for her stocking and the only “coal” that’ll do would be eye kohl and you’re not going that route.

Solution: Every lady loves lip balm and a cute, inexpensive option is Maybelline‘s newly launched Baby Lips line. It’s an ultra-moisturizing formula that leaves lips kissable, conditioned, supple and with the faintest hint of shine and color. Buy the entire color range for her stocking and she’ll tote one in every handbag, from her Kooba clutch to her Stella McCartney Falabella bag to the pocket of her Calvin Klein pea coat. You can nab a stash at the drugstore, too!

Dilemma: You know next to nada about makeup.

Solution: Take the guesswork out with Rae’s Mistletoe Emergency Kit. The shiny red wristlet features Lip Lust Lipstick, Long Lasting Lipliner and Lucky Lips Lip Gloss. She can plump, shine and smile and the fashionable and functional case is just icing on the cake. Her lips will look perfect – no feathering or bleeding, super moist and va-va-va-voom in hue!

Dilemma: She likes it loud. But you don’t know what’s too loud.

Solution: Smashbox’s Flash smoky eye palette, couple with the Silver and Gold glitter eyeliners, will ensure all eyes on her, without turning the volume so high it deafens. If you catch our drift.

Dilemma: She loves LBDs and shiny lips – and you need to save time and get everything in one fell swoop.

Solution: Shop at Express. She can polish her lips and her look with the Love & Cheers Lip Gloss Trio Iced Sugar, Currant Tonic, and Peppermint Mist. Each offers just enough shine and a light shimmer to pump up her lips with sheen and flavor.

Dilemma: She’s complaining about her pasty wintry pallor and how it’ll detract from the LBD she wants to wear on NYE.

Solution: Grab the limited edition Shimmer Body Powder from Express. She’ll have a shimmery glow across her shoulders, legs, arms, hair and décolleté with one sweep of the built-in brush. Even better, the powder is scented with Love Express, the clothier’s first ever fragrance for women, with notes of Lily of the Valley, Vanilla Musk, and Tiare Blossom.

Make Up For Ever’s Jenn Karsten has 17 years of experience behind her, which she brought to the company earlier this year in the role of Director of Education and Artistry. The Missouri-born and reared Karsten, who worked for Clinique and MAC previously, has a simple motto: “I can teach anyone how to do make up, but first I must teach them how to see.”

That’s why we’ve asked this “MacGyver of makeup” for her trips, tricks and trends.

BN: What is the one universal makeup application tip/or technique you recommend to all the artists you educate as well as the average women navigating the wide, wonderful world of makeup?
JK: The one universal tip is really to take the time to really analyze your features like face shape, eye shape, and symmetry of the face. The most effective makeup is subtly corrective and enhances the personal features and that means you don’t just randomly paint where you want; use purposeful placement

BN: What is your favorite Make Up For Ever product of all time?
JK: My all-time favorite product is Aqua Cream #2 because it creates the perfect smoky taupe eye in twp minutes! It is a stand-alone waterproof cream eye shadow that lasts all day and night. I finish it off with a swipe of Aqua Eyes pencil #0L- Black in the waterlines and two coats of Smoky Lash Mascara.

BN: What is your favorite product not made by Make Up For Ever and why?
JK: As a professional makeup artist, I do have some other favorite products in my kit. I absolutely cannot do makeup without Fresh Sugar Lip Polish. It is hard to make beautiful makeup when the lips are chapped and flaky. This has saved me many times on the job and is a healing, smoothing and great tasting way to get some real work out of a product

BN: What is your favorite drugstore find?
JK: My favorite drug store find is Andrea Eye Makeup Remover Pads because they are pre-soaked, super-gentle and fast! I also really love to shop all of the amazing nail polish formulas -especially the rapid-dry ones because I’m always in a hurry. They have wonderful color range so I can make nails a perfect accessory or trend.

BN: What is your favorite luxe/indulgence product?
JK: I indulge myself when I use great skincare. Time is a luxury so when I use my Fresh Strawberry Face Polish and Sugar Body Polish in the shower I feel very pampered and my skin is super smooth. Exfoliation is the key to glowing skin and I love natural ingredients. I indulge my clients with Dr. Gross Alpha-Beta 2-step system wipes. They are individual packets that work together to do a quick spa style peel treatment and are great to prep your skin before makeup.

BN: You were born and raised in the Midwest — has the impacted your experience with makeup at all?
JK: Being from the middle of the country has influenced me in so many ways. In my experience, the one thing that it did most powerfully was to push me to explore many other countries and cultures. It bred a dreamer. I have always been very inspired visually through art, music, movies, beauty and fashion. I can truly grasp the beauty in simplicity, however, so I think that is where my roots reveal themselves.

BN: How did you gravitate towards doing makeup?
JK: I think it was a natural outlet that came to me through my love of art, fashion and music. I loved to read magazines, tried every trend (some good and bad), and always wanted to be the first one to do the new thing or the next thing. This path found me. I didn’t know you could have a career working out-side of the movies, Vogue or the beauty shop for that matter. I was trying to be a veterinarian at one point just because I love animals!

BN: You have said you can teach anyone how to do makeup but you must first teach them to see. Can you explain how you open their eyes, and not just with white eyeliner on the waterline?!
JK: We all see through different eyes and evaluate things differently. We have to be objective about our own faces or that of a client. To see we must sometimes suspend what we want to do and do what is best suited to this face in this situation. As artists this is where I remind to rely on good technique and balance and really check your ego in favor of your know-how.

BN: Lip gloss or lipstick?
JK: Both! Lipstick for longer wear and gloss for shine and slip. I love gloss for the transparent stained glass effect and sometimes it is plumping too! I use lipstick the most because with a lot of texture varieties you can get so many looks and it is more corrective when used with a lip liner. My lips are uneven so I can get perfection from corrective lining and a lipstick fill in. Rouge Artist Intense and Aqua lip pencil are my go to combo and sometimes I add the gloss just in the center for a pop.

BN: Cream or powder shadow?
JK: If it has to be either/or then I would choose cream shadow. Cream mimics natural skin more effectively and in the case of Aqua Cream it is also waterproof so it cuts way down on products and prep time. I have my favorite powder shadows too and I use them with my creams, but I keep it simple by just adding a brow highlight or depth in the crease or lash lines.

One obsession I have is loose eye shadow like our Star Powders. These are the purest eye shadow pigments and come in beautiful chromatic colors and textures. I use these often to go day to night by popping onto the center of my lids and sometimes on my cheekbones.

BN: Favorite winter makeup product/tip/trick?
JK: Winter can dry us out quickly with wind and cold. If you keep your skin stable you won’t have to make big changes in your makeup routine. I will be bumping up my hydration and protection before makeup. My go-to will be Make Up Forever HD Elixir which is pure Hyaluronic Acid which increases water in the skin by 560% in 15 minutes and I will lock it in with UV Prime SPF 50 Face Protect. Keep your lips smooth and protected as well.

BN: What’s on the Makeup Forever docket in 2012?
JK: 2012 has us making it big in HD and smudge proof makeup. The HD collection of products continues to win awards and be an industry and consumer favorite and we will continue to show the world how Make Up For Ever does beautiful natural makeup. Summer will reveal all of our powerhouse waterproof Aqua range and some new color and formula additions that will really excite. Finally we will be focusing on lips and how to play, create, inspire and just really rock your lips with amazing techniques you can learn as well as a new lipstick formula.

BN: Why is Makeup Forever one of the go-to brands on the market today?
JK: Make Up For Ever is gaining momentum because we are a brand that truly educates. Our brand heritage with Dany Sanz and the Make Up For Ever Academy in Paris lends our brand the ability to teach anyone how to be their own personal make up artist based on Dany’s fundamental techniques. Our range is deep and truly made for professionals so if it is good for professional use then it is great for the everyday client.

For the month of November, we’re reprising a former In the Hot Seat subject, something we’ve only done once. (The previous time was with last month’s subject Josie Maran!) The reasons we’ve decided to nail Kashuk down for a second time are of the utmost importance: her products are amazing and as a breast cancer survivor, she works to position breast cancer awareness at the forefront of the industry and of culture beyond the pink-focused month of October.

Since breast cancer has zero sense of time or space, we felt it was important to keep the education and information about this disease on our pages beyond the tenth month of the year and who better to keep the conversation active than Kashuk, who understands the fight is a year-round one! She also gave us a sneak peek into her LUXE line, launching this month.

BN: What can women and beauty companies do beyond October to keep BCA at the forefront of the industry, in women’s minds and in culture?
SK: I believe breast cancer is an every day fight. We may have a heavier focus on the cause during October, but we need to turn our support into a year-round battle. With that said, this year I changed my BCRF product offering from a Breast Cancer Awareness month limited edition item to permanent part of my core collection. This way, I can continue to raise awareness for the cause and further my support with a 15% of purchase price contribution to the Breast Cancer Research Fund for each brush set sold of the Proudly Pink Five-Piece Brush Set.

(Editor’s Note: This is one of our absolute favorite brush sets, thanks to the clean and crisp white handles, the chic silver trim and fluffy pink bristles, which are tucked into a structured silver and pink-lined case. You get a powder/blusher brush; a crease brush; a synthetic foundation/concealer brush; a small show brush; and bent eyeliner brush! Our makeup bags are overflowing with basic black handle brushes, and these are pretty and functionally fabulous! Sure the less attractive brushes get the job done, but there is something to be said about presentation.)

BN: As a breast cancer survivor, how has the beauty industry helped you to cope and to deal with the effects of the disease, beside the obvious ways?
SK: The beauty industry as a whole is a huge supporter of Breast Cancer Awareness, especially since we all cater a majority of our products to women. This connection with our consumer population enables us to focus more clearly on issues of importance, like women’s health. For me, my diagnosis came as an opportunity to address this relevant audience and gave me a voice to educate women on not just beauty, but more importantly breast cancer awareness, support, and proper prevention.

BN: Do you have any advice for our readers regarding your battle with breast cancer that could help them with their own battles?
SK: I am one of the lucky ones. I had been in the high surveillance program at Memorial Sloan Kettering due to my strong family history of the disease; it wasn’t if I was going to get breast cancer but when. Looking back, early detection was so key. I cannot stress enough the importance of staying on top of screenings and checkups. Something so simple as regular doctor appointments can really change your life. Another important thing I think women should remember is to stay active, no matter how small the activity. I believe strongly in beauty from the inside out, so exercise and healthy eating need to be an important institution in life.

BN: Tell us a little about the LUXE line you are launching in November!
SK: I am so proud of this collection! It seamlessly combines form and function with timelessly chic, one-of-a-kind, ultra luxurious pieces. On top of everything, the prices are insanely affordable!! The collection will feature breathtaking beauty and travel accessories, such as stylish brush sets and essential organizational tools that are incredibly giftable and impossible to resist.

Designer Rachel Roy has released an eye shadow palette in recyclable packaging – no groans, please. It’s hardly boring brown cardboard. In fact, it’s still chic with watercolor designs on the front. Inside are several pans of power-pigmented shadow. Day allows for the easy creation of the hot-off-the-runway “sunset eyes” look, thanks to the ember-y, burnished oranges and bright, gilded golds. The Night shades are born of the blue family, with aqua, marine and navy shades. Day + Night are interchangeable, so you can mesh some of the golds and blues or browns and aquas, if you dare. The color payoff is extra rich, so it stays all day.

Available at Impulse Beauty at Macys or here.

Autumn is the perfect season for wine tasting, sipping and staining…your lips and cheeks, that is. Our friends at Three Custom Color Specialists have devised plucked-from-the-vineyard, ripe ‘n’ juicy The Varietals Lip and Cheek Stains, inspired by South African libations. Dab on the center of your lips and top with gloss for a flushed and healthy, stay-all-day lip look; you’ll look like you were gingerly sipping vino in Napa. Dot and blend for a sheer veil on cheeks, too.

Does mod ever really go out of style? We don’t think so, at least makeup-fully speaking! Nude lips and wide, black-lined doe eyes with coat upon coat of thick black mascara is always in vogue. Jouer’s Mad About Fall Collection inspired truly, madly, deeply passion for us, especially Hydrating Lipstick in Dusty. It’s a true nude that transitions from day to night and the buttery formula is incredibly moist, thanks to Brazilian Cupuacu Butter. Pair with your favorite black mascara for a touch of classic, easy-to-achieve glamour.

You can find us at Soho’s Topshop loading up on a variety of black ensembles, but we never pass up the opp to take a gander at their makeup offerings while we’re there. You shouldn’t either, thanks to the new Smoke & Mirrors collection, which should stop you dead in your “looking for the perfect fall skirt and scarf” tracks. This set is inspired by polished and put together ’70s glam and comes in autumn-appropriate hues. Rumor Has It is a pinky beige lipstick that’ll give you that much-coveted, pillowy Scarlett Johansson look. Top(shop) your digits with Fallen Leaf, a matte sage nail lacquer that’s still a 98-degrees Fahrenheit color trend. The Secret Liaison eye shadow palette – it’s circular, like the Cover Girl powder compacts of the ’70s- holds four pans of champagne and charcoal hues that allow you to smoke and shimmer. In a word: gorgeous! Apply ‘em all and go sip a pumpkin spice chai latte.

Josie Maran is the Argan Oil ambassador and her Argan Lip Treatment Trios, which live in the most precious pots (they look like they could contain genies) make for the lushest, softest, creamiest and healthiest pout. Love your lips with these pigmented, balm-like glosses, which come in pinked-out nudes, shimmer and matte finishes and with a faint, juicy scent. If you’re not a lip product addict after tapping these on with your finger, you’re immune. Rosey (deep rose, pomegranate scented), Kiss Me (pale pink, lime scented) and Heaven (shimmery peach with tangerine scent) are as yummy and luxe, and for when you want a bit of color and moisture, without too much shine.

No need to book a ticket to the City of Lights this month when Piret & Tamara’s A Night in Paris collection can transport you there with a smaller price tag and the same amount of glamour via its La Vie en Rose Eye Silk. The silicone-based but creamy formula dries like a powder and is an excellent brow highlighter, and can pull double duty as a blush. It can also turn up the dial on your powder shadows when used as a base. It’s a delicate pink that still makes a statement. We recommend using with the P&T Eye Silk Blender Brush for get the maximum effect out of the product. It’s also perfectly acceptable to use as an inner corner highlighter, too. Go ahead, your friends at BeautyNewsNYC approve.

We’re always crowing about how being beauty editors allows us to unearth new lines, like Kinetics Cosmetics. We are crushing on the glossy SuperWear Gel Eye Liner in Noir, of course. It stays put, even on the waterline. It’s a stick liner, but has the same consistency as a pot of gel liner. So if you have trouble getting from A to B on your top lashline when attempting the difficult cat eye with a brush and a pot, this controllable liner will take its rightful place as your new BFF because smudging is not an option. We love, love, love it. You can take it all off with the Dual Action Makeup Remover, which protects delicate skin around your peepers. It softens, loosens, cleans and conditions in one swipe. Grab a Liquid Lustre gloss while your at it. They boast a yummy coconut scent and plump without the burn. The sparkly plum Divine is the way to go.

Bobbi Brown’s Tortoise Shell collection is designed for gals with glasses and was inspired by Bobbi’s own personal pair of specs. I know that when I forego my contacts in favor of my specs, I often put on less eye makeup, if any at all. Bobbi’s new collection is designed to be worn with glasses, to complement them rather than compete with them. The shimmery shadows are bronzed, sandy and gold, while the shimmery nude lip gloss will look gorgeous with any vision enhancers if you do an “Amy” and don’t do much eye makeup when wearing your eyeglasses.

Ladies, I have found the cure to my summertime blues. I have been trying to create a denim-inspired, blue’sh smoky eye for years, yet it always ends up looking grey and the desired effect is never, ever achieved. Until I got my paws on Elizabeth Arden’s Blue Breeze Color Intrigue Eye Shadow Quad, which helped me to finally (!) craft summer-appropriate, blue smoke! The palette holds a deep indigo, a pale periwinkle, a vanilla and a silvery shade; the colors are incredibly buildable and I used the palette on a Wednesday to create a deep, mysterious smoky eye, as I had nighttime plans; and on the following Friday, I created a softer, yet equally as blue wash of color using the same product. It was as if I had used two different palettes.

I have told myself that I will not fear color this summer, and I attempted to follow that mantra by using Elizabeth Arden’s Blue Sky Smoky Eyes Powder Pencil. It’s a luxe-tacular blue eyeliner has a smudger on the reverse end. I used it to trace my inner bottom waterline, adding a pop of color to my usual brown and black.

There are plenty of worthwhile, egg-shaped beauty sponges on the market -I particularly like the pink Beauty Blender- but Elizabeth Arden’s Makeup Blender liquid foundation and concealer sponge is primo because of its hardware. Thanks to its Lucite handle and almond-shaped head, you have complete control over the application of liquid products, especially around the nose, so it is a “must own” tool for every woman’s makeup kit, whether you splurge on every new product that comes onto the market or if you are conservative and use a small staple of products and tools. Necessity, thy name is Makeup Blender.

Elizabeth Arden Pure Finish Mineral Cheek Color is another July/August staple. Sunkissed Coral is exactly that: concentrated pink in the twist up, flowered round container, but once you sweep a brush over the pot to pick up the powder and sweep it over your apples, you will sunkissed, without the possible UV damage. You get the flushed-looking benefits of spending some time outdoors without the dangers.

On the too-hot mornings of July and August, when putting on eyeliner and even mascara, much less eye shadow, feels like a chore I just don’t want to partake in, I usually reach for Fusion’s LipFusion® Balm Tinted Lip Conditioning Stick SPF 15, since it offers just enough color to brighten up my face. It’s also a punchy-colored protector, with SPF. I don’t feel quite so naked – literally, since my delicate lips are protected from harsh sun rays and there is some sheer color on my kisser. Bitten is an amplified pink that gives off that coveted “ate a popsicle” flush!

My Marc by Marc Jacobs pebbled leather, cross-body tote for summer is already feeling its 10 lbs. That’s why I am in love with Tweezerman’s Key Essential Folding Nail Clipper, because it’s a streamlined, compact and functional item that doesn’t add excess weight to my overstuffed Harajuku Lovers makeup bag! It’s contained with a cotton candy colored leather pouch, boasting a built-in nail file and cleaner. It’s also attached to a keyring, so I can hang it from my bag with my totable anti-bac tubes! I love when products meet at the intersection of Stylish and Necessary.

Votre Vu also has me and my over-stuffed bag in mind with its brilliant Bebe Duette Luxe Lips Framboise & Hand Creme duo. It’s hand cream and lip balm in one tube. The universally flattering pink balm is housed in the cap, so you can moisturize and balm up in one fell swoop.

This summer’s ultimate grab ‘n’ go product is Burt’s Bees Hibiscus or Red Dahlia Tinted Lip Balm. Its purpose is twofold: to condition and care for lips, all the while providing flicker of color. Sure Burt’s Bee’s is a Target staple, but these two sexy, enhanced hues push the brand up a fashion-forward and sexy notch.

Former Marie Claire beauty maven Ning Chao, now serving as beauty director at Beautylish, is full of tips, tricks and techniques, so we had to pick her beautiful brain. She checked in with Beauty News NYC at the end of Fashion Week to share her top three trends now that Spring has sprung and you need and want ideas for your warm weather looks as they start to bloom!

Bright Lip: Don’t fear the bright hues on the shelves and runways and don’t worry about red! Chao said, “Bright lipstick or gloss is an easy to update any makeup routine for spring. The best part is that it’s not just about red lips, so you can experiment with pinks, oranges, and purples too.

See this month’s Best Bets for our suggestions on this trend.

Slicked back hair: Natalie Portman’s Oscar win for Black Swan is inspiring beauty trends, and it makes sense for summer, since no one wants hair sticking to the backs of their nicks. “A big trend on the runway, sleek textures dress up ponytails and Black Swan ballerina buns this season. A polishing cream or gel transforms an everyday ponytail into a sophisticated style,” Chaos said.

Pastel smoky eyes: You can still smoke out your eyes with light colors and now is the time to try it! “Whether it’s soft grays or pale pinks and lilacs, pastel smoky eyes are less intimidating than darker shades and very feminine and flattering,” Chao said.

The easy, breezy, ’70s California girl is one of our favorite looks ever, and our celebrity makeup artist columnist Kerry Malouf certainly takes us there in this month’s Insider!

“The Photographer, Brian Bowen Smith, hair stylist Anton David and I were inspired to shoot a ’70s, California beauty look seen on Spring runways,” Malouf said. “There’s always neutrals, but it’s Spring time and you need to add a pop of color! Citruses, oranges, greens, blues. All the hues that you would actually see in textile in the summer vacation homes found in West Palm Beach and Palm Springs. Positive colors that invoke enthusiasm. It’s the good ol’ days!”

Color and the warm climate certainly got Malouf’s creative juices flowing. She said, “Combined with this inspiration and Hourglass‘ new, ‘must have’ products, we managed to achieve our goal. I like to keep makeup clean, colorful, fun and easy. I love stains. They look great on the skin. Who doesn’t look good even with a splash or a stain of fuchsia or tangerine on their lips or cheeks? It makes you look alive! A light stain and color on the cheeks just makes you look awake and fresh for the day.”

If Spring makeup is about looking effortlessly chic, then the Hourglass Aura range is exactly what you’re looking for, according to Malouf. “The products enhance, illuminate and highlight without color overkill. Aura boasts three shades for cheeks and three for lips that all produce the perfect amount of light coverage. Cheeks look as though they’ve been adorably pinched and lips appear as they’ve been passionately kissed,” she said.

Malouf also loves the texture and the lightweight feel of the products, saying, “They’re a wonderful alternative to powder blushes and heavier lip products. The cheek stain’s see-through color, while the lip stain has a trendy, semi-matte finish. I like that the cheek stain is water-based formula with real staying power that gives cheeks a gorgeous ‘lit-from-within’ glow. The packaging is very cool. It has a sponge tip that you twist until the color comes out. Also, the products are fragrance-free which is the best! Both are long wearing, but move when your applying and then it sets.” That’s key if you make a mistake or want to play with or build shade intensity!

“Being a makeup minimalist, I’m into stains,” Malouf reasoned. “You can get by on the cheek stain and lip stain and just a few coats of mascara. It gives you a subtle, refreshed look and a pop of color that lasts throughout the day. I used Petal on both girls on the cheeks and the lips.
These products are must haves!!!”

Malouf’s mantra from April through June? Simple! “This Spring, lighten up. Keep it colorful and have fun!!!!”