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Perfecting the Art of Conversuasion

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Face of the Day, Galactic-Style

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A short time ago in a theme park far, far away…

Okay, so it’s not *that* far away. (Only a 5-hour direct flight!) I had looked forward to this event for months, and when the time finally came, I was ready to morph into one of the greatest, most sassy droids known to mankind. This past Monday, at Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland, I dressed up as the iconic R2-D2. (Click here for more details on my costume.)

My husband went as himself.
IMG_0739Okay, okay, he didn’t actually go as himself. He dressed up as the ultimate nerd! High-waisted pants and a matching bow tie to boot. (He even has that mouth/ jaw thing going on… it’s quite precious.)

To offset the whole Star Wars-geek thing, I opted for sultry, come-hither makeup using ARTDECO Cosmetics. Identified by its on-trend and fashion-forward designs, ARTDECO has been a cult favourite in Europe for years, and is now available in Canada at select Shoppers Drug Mart stores! Here’s how you can emulate the look, whether you’re trick-or-treating or enjoying date night. …

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Pür Minerals 5-Piece Holiday Perfection Collection

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Presenting the Pür Minerals 5-Piece Holiday Perfection Collection. For 24 hours only – beginning at 10:00pm EST on Friday, December 12th and concluding at 9:59pm EST on Saturday, December 13th, The Shopping Channel will be offering this set for just $47.95 (a $132 value).
DSC_01994-in-1 Pressed Mineral Foundation: The newly enhanced formula has everything you love—and more!—about the original 4-in-1. It offers the same great coverage and same lightweight feel. It is the same no-mess mineral makeup, but now with new built-in skincare ingredients. This powder foundation can help correct, prevent and interrupt your skin concerns while helping smooth away the look of lines and wrinkles. It helps plump, lift and firm the skin’s appearance and also helps balance uneven skin tone. …

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RT to WIN with The Shopping Channel and Pür Minerals

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Ladies, here’s a deal that you won’t be able to pass up. Heck; I don’t want you to pass it up! I want you to visit www.tsc.ca today at 10:00pm EST, find today’s very special showstopper, and take advantage of the makeup deal of the century.

Presenting the Pür Minerals 5-Piece Holiday Perfection Collection. A beautiful collection from customer-favourite brand Pür Minerals, this exclusive set helps you define or create the perfect look for the holidays and beyond! Included is the 4-in-1 Pressed Foundation, which includes skincare benefits that help make your skin look beautiful from the inside-out, and Pür’s chisel brush for application. You’ll also receive the brand’s new Soul Mattes Palette, which features eight beautiful matte eye shadows for that stunning holiday look. The Hello Bright Eyes eye pencil helps make the eyes pop to perfection, and lastly, to complete your wonderful look, a lip gloss in Tickled.

The value, if purchased separately, is 132.00. TSC normally retails this collection for $79.99.

Impressed? Oh, you just wait.

For 24 hours only – beginning at 10:00pm EST on Friday, December 12th and concluding at 9:59pm EST on Saturday, December 13th, The Shopping Channel will be offering this set for just $47.95!

The collections are offered in eight (8) different hues to match each complexion, and trust me ladies – they WILL sell out. The quality of the product, the reputation of the brand and the stellar Showstopper price makes the Pür Minerals 5-Piece Holiday Perfection Collection my pick for beauty junkies on your holiday list!

And if you LOVE what you see – I’ve got a special treat for my Twitter followers! Today only, RT for a chance to WIN before it goes on sale! From 8:00am to 9:59pm EST on Friday, December 12th, simply click on the photo below, retweet the tweet, and you’ll automatically be entered to win.
pur mineralsTo summarize, the collection includes: 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 15(8g); Soul Matte Eyeshadow Palette (1.5g each); Chisel Brush; Tickled Lip Gloss (3g); and Hello Bright Eyes Eye Pencil with Smudger (.28g).

Good luck everyone! And, if you don’t win, be sure to grab your own collection for just $47.95. It’s a steal of a Showstopper, just in time for Christmas!

Get the Look: Jennifer Aniston

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The truth is, I was on Team Jolie.

Yeah, I know the supposed feud went down about 10 years ago, and the only people who still care are the overly enthusiastic commenters on gossip websites. (Side note: have you ever read the comments on www.usmagazine.com? They’re actually more entertaining than the article!)

But I digress. My reason for sticking with Ms. Jolie was one of simple fact: you can’t steal a man. Either a man wants to leave his wife, or he doesn’t. Unfortunately for both Angelina and Jennifer, they were unwilling participants in the tug-of-war of the century.

Of course, when Brad Pitt is the grand prize, I *almost* understand, and forgive, the hype.

And aside from Jennifer’s stoic resolve to stay respectful when speaking to the media, I had to admire one thing…. her otherworldly incredible hair and skin. Truly! There is just something so flawless about her beauty, from her perfectly bronzed skin to her thick veil of stylishly coiffed locks. She is a beauty and style icon; an ambassador to those who revere a fresh, natural look.

Recently, AVEENO Global Ambassador Jennifer Aniston showed off her glowing skin at the premiere of her upcoming film, Cake. Aniston’s make-up artist, Angela Levin, created the star’s natural look, which she debuted at the Toronto Film Festival. And I just happen to have all the beauty tips, straight from Angela Levin herself!

"Cake" Premiere - 2014 Toronto International Film Festival“I started the day by prepping Jen’s skin with AVEENO POSITIVELY RADIANT Skin Brightening Daily Scrub. It’s very gentle and leaves the skin feeling clean and fresh, making it a perfect surface for makeup application.

I proceeded by applying AVEENO POSITIVELY RADIANT Daily Moisturizer SPF 15 on her face and neck. Jen loves this moisturizer – it feels light on the skin and is very effective in keeping it hydrated and toned throughout the day.

I then applied a light coat of foundation by CHANEL Perfection Lumière Velvet, in two colors – 60 Beige on her neck and outer areas of her face and 50 Beige in the center.

I then used CHANEL Les Beiges in N50 as a bronzer on her forehead, chin and cheek using the brush that comes with the compact. I love this product because it’s matte and I can build the application to heavier or lighter.

For her cheeks, I mixed CHANEL Cream Blush in Chamade with Make Up Forever Cream Blush 335 and gently applied using my fingers, creating a sun kissed natural look. …

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Introducing: ARTDECO Cosmetics

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It’s no surprise that I have an affinity for artfully designed, beautifully packaged makeup. In fact, I often post photos of recent acquisitions… but then become too attached to the impeccable styling and craftsmanship of the items, and simply can’t bear to actually use them.

Let’s just say that if I ever quit my day job, I could open a makeup art gallery.

Hence, of course I am obsessed with ARTDECO Cosmetics. For some, they need no introduction; since officially launching in Canada last summer, they’ve gained a cult following by those inspired by trendsetting couture.

But for the rest of you who have yet to discover the brand, I thought it was only polite that I provide you with an informal introduction. You may have seen their fashion-froward products at Shoppers Drug Mart, where they enjoy residence at 66 select locations across Canada. This year, more than 20 new stores are expected to carry the line.

“The secret to ARTDECO’s success is in the company’s constant focus on the individual wishes and needs of all women, combined with uncompromising quality and reasonable pricing. ARTDECO offers a wealth of special products and refillable and magnetic beauty boxes, which allow users to customize their own color palette to their needs.” …

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Orange is the New Red

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Beauty junkies, I’ve got a hot tip for you. In fact, it’s so hot, it’s sizzling. Sizzling Orange.

It’s been a long time since I’ve seen so many beauty outlets jump on a single trend. Normally, trend reports are pervaded with wishy-washy predictions, such as bold lips… or nude lips. Fresh faced… or dewy glow. Right.

So it’s incredibly refreshing that so many designers, artists and editors have drawn a thick line in the sand, collectively staking their reputations based on the expected popularity of this fiery shade. And when Vogue, Glamour, Harpers Bazaar and Cosmopolitan – among others – declare orange lips as the one trend to try for Spring 2014, you know it’s time to tango with tangerine.

Top to Bottom, Images Courtesy of: en.vogue.fr, stylebook.de and arabia.style.com

Now I’ll be the first to admit that orange lips just aren’t for me. As much as I love to adopt trends, I have too many 90’s flashbacks when I try warmer shades. However, I’m thinking an orange creamsicle pout is the perfect fun and flirty look for an evening out with the girls, and may just invest in a lipstick or two.

Easy Breezy Beautiful… and Radiant!

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Weeks ago, I shared with y’all a nail polish roundup featuring Pantone’s Colour of the Year – Radiant Orchid. Originally, I had mixed feelings about its promotion from humble lavender to glorified purple, but after re-examining the shade with curiosity and an open mind, I’ve since come to love it. And I suppose Pantone says it best:

“Radiant Orchid blooms with confidence and magical warmth that intrigues the eye and sparks the imagination. It is an expressive, creative and embracing purple—one that draws you in with its beguiling charm. A captivating harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones, Radiant Orchid emanates great joy, love and health.”

Cruising the Cover Girl site today, I found a wealth of radiant orchid-inspired hues that are too pretty not to share. From eye-enhancing eye shadows to lip-perfecting gloss balms, Cover Girl cosmetics are an easy (breezy beautiful) and affordable way to rock a trend.


1. Lipslicks Smoochies Lip Balm in C U L8R; 2. Outlast Lipstain in Scarlet Pucker; 3. Lipslicks Smoochies Sizzle Gloss in Violet Flare; 4. Outlast Stay Brilliant Nail Gloss in Grapevine; 5. LipPerfection Lipcolour in Divine; 6. LipPerfection Jumbo Gloss Balm in Plum Twist; 7. SmokyShadowBlast in Purple Plume; 8. Flamed Out Shadow Pot in Blazing Purple; 9. Eye Enhancers 1-Kit Shadows in Silver Lilac; 10. Eye Enhancers 4-Kit Shadows in Ice Princess; 11. Eye Enhancers 4-Kit Shadows in Blossoms. Click here to visit Cover Girl.

The Not-So-Viral Picture You Loved

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There are so many buzzwords in social media today: trending, clickability, engagement, advertainment… I could go on. And on.

But the single most overused buzzword? Viral. As in, “My Facebook post went viral! It was liked and shared a gazillion times.”

Amazing! And having a “viral” post or picture is certainly a measurement of success – one that should be both applauded and respected. (Unless you’re spamming people with voting requests, “earn $100/hour” ads or funny animal pictures. Then you’re not a viral success; you’re a douche.)

Unfortunately, I’ve never experienced the high of having a viral post or image, but I have received amazing feedback and engagement from a few posts in particular. It’s a nice feeling! Of course, when I published the following picture last Thursday, clearly I had no idea it would be received so well…

It’s just a photo of me and the Director of Menu Management at McDonald’s Canada, Anne Parks – from the post They Came. They Tasted. They Savoured the Flavour. I didn’t think much about it until over the course of the next few days, my inbox was filled with questions about my hair, beauty routine, makeup and wardrobe. Er… I’m flattered, friends!

And while I would normally just respond to e-mails individually, I thought this was a great way to share the “secrets” of my beauty routine. (Prepare to be underwhelmed. Seriously – I’m pretty much no-frills and no-fuss.) Below is a collection of questions I received stemming from the photo I posted on Thursday – except the first, which I received a few weeks ago and just had to include!

Hi Gorgeous – Do you do botox?!? Your skin is flawless. Secret safe with me if its a yes – please tell me where you go! xo – R

LOL! I wish I was interesting enough to have a reason to botox, but alas, the kindergarten carpool in sweatpants does not necessitate a smooth and wrinkle-free forehead. I am, however, blessed with good genes – and I do use a “miracle” cream called Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Serum. It is seriously the best thing you can ever put on a problem area; just a few dabs on fine lines and they disappear like magic.

Since I only use it from time to time (usually for big events), I’ve had the same bottle for almost three years! A little goes a looong way.

Love your orange dress! Where did you get it? – A

It’s my “little orange dress” from the Old Navy Fall/Winter 2013 collection. A steal at under $30; it originally came paired with a black belt, but I swapped it for a pink belt to add a punch of fun colour!…

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Celebrity Crush: Emma Stone

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Confession: I’ve always kind of adored Emma Stone. (And her current boyfriend, but that’s another blog post.)

In fact, when she first burst onto the scene in the teen comedy Superbad, I tidily predicted that her days as a supporting actress in an ensemble piece were numbered – confident that her charm, wit and polished girl-next-door looks would elevate her to superstar status in no time.

And now, a mere six years later and after a string of box office hits including Crazy, Stupid, Love., The Help and The Amazing Spider-Man, she’s happily adorning the red carpet with Ryan Gosling (I just fainted) in their upcoming crime film Gangster Squad.

And if there’s one thing I love about Emma Stone most, it’s her red carpet moments. What a treat for the eyes! Always elegant, always beautifully done. She is the epitome of “fun fashion” – taking risks at appropriate times and in appropriate places.

This past Monday night she arrived at the Los Angeles premiere of Gangster Squad looking absolutely flawless in a crimson Lanvin dress.

While I loved her fashion choice, I was particularly smitten with her beauty ensemble. Perfectly defined eyes – on trend in smoky shades of emerald green; subtly bronzed cheeks and the palest of crimson lip stains. And, she resisted the temptation to play matchy-matchy with her fingernails, instead opting for au naturel tips. It is red carpet perfection.

I spent the better part of Tuesday morning trying to dissect her look – which eye shadow? What lipstick? Thankfully, US Magazine picked up on her “Flawless Look” and published everything you need to recreate it:

“I wanted to create a very glamorous look inspired by (her red dress),” said her makeup artist Rachel Goodwin. “I played with jewel tones on the eyes and lips and kept the skin looking dewy for a modern twist.”

Face:
Chanel Base Lumière Illuminating Makeup Base, $42;
Revlon Nearly Naked Makeup in Vanilla, $9.99;
Chanel Soleil Tan De Chanel Bronzing Makeup Base, $48

Eyes:
Revlon Luxurious Color Eyeliner in Sueded Brown, $9.99;
Revlon PhotoReady Primer + Shadow in Pop Art (emerald green shade was used wet as a liner and dry as the shadow), $9.99;
Chanel Le Volume De Chanel Mascara in Noir, $30.00;
Chanel Sculpting Eye Brow Pencil in Brun Natural, $29.00

Lips:
Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Rendezvous, $8.99

All products available at www.revlon.com or www.chanel.com.

Do you have a female celebrity crush? Who is it, and why?

So This Is Love… The Disney Cinderella Collection

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Become spellbound with the NEW Disney Cinderella Collection, available exclusively at SEPHORA. Disney’s Cinderella Collection promises your own fairy tale-worthy transformation, with dazzling palettes customized to match the original colors from the fabled movie. And, the shades will take you from day to well past midnight – even after your coach turns into a pumpkin.

1. Compact Mirror

What it is:
A purse-friendly mirror designed after the iconic clock that signals the end to Cinderella’s enchanting spell.

What it does:
Touch-up your look with style and grace with this mirror designed after the iconic clock from the film. This elegant compact, adorned with a gold overlay, is the perfect addition to any princess’ collection.

What else you need to know:
“It’s time for your moment.”…

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The Search for the PERFECT Neutral Ends Here

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Some women search for the perfect red lipstick. Others, the perfect liquid foundation.

Me? I’ve been searching for the PERFECT neutral palette for a long, long time. And I’m not talking about just any item – sure, I can find a nice nude lipstick here, and a passable pink blush there – but for years, I’ve been waiting for a complete line of neutral shades that work harmoniously together to take the guesswork out of “understated but fabulous”.

Ladies, I’ve found it… in a place where you’d never think to look!

Are you familiar with Caryl Baker Visage? I remember popping into their salon for a facial circa 2001, but otherwise, they’ve never really been on my radar for makeup or skin care. After all, it’s hard to resist the call of the more glamorous makeup destinations in the mall (MAC! Sephora! Chanel!) but of course, glamour has a price… and it’s often $27.50 for an eye liner. (I know. Never again.)

Turns out, they’ve been quietly building quite the beauty following with their Colour Kits – essential makeup pieces in complementary shades, retailing for almost 50% off had you purchased the items separately.

I received a press drop with with these gorgeous shades from the “Uptown Girl” collection in Midtown Morning. Included: Eye Shadows (Gingerbread Latté, Check Please! and In Transit), Blush (Slept In), Lipstick (Morning After), Lip Gloss (Rodeo Drive) and the Ultimate Eye Liner (Occult)….

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Geometric Eyeliner: Would You Wear It?

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Of course you wouldn’t. Because I promise you this: if you work anywhere other than Manhattan’s Garment District, and punch in at 9:00am looking like this:

Chances are, someone will ask if you applied your makeup while driving. Or drinking.

(But never while drinking and driving – #MADD)

The above photos were part of Elle’s Fall 2012 Beauty Preview (Images by Imaxtree) and featured runway looks from Altuzarra, Lanvin, Anna Sui, Giorgio Armani, Zac Posen and more. Now I’m all for a good ol’ fashioned wing tip, but this is cat’s eye gone wild. I fear that trying to emulate this look would get the tongues a’ wagging: “Nice eyeliner, Lena! (Snort.)” “Shhhh! She can hear you!” “I hope she does! She looks like an idiot!”

Of course, there is a VERY easy way to stay on trend without being mistaken for a brains-eating zombie.

#1. Learn to love liquid liner. A must for embracing the cat’s eye look, perfect your technique by practicing before the big event. Working with liquid liner takes time and patience… and a lot of eye makeup remover.

#2. Double Up. Perfectly sculpted cat’s eyes often use a combination of liquid and pencil eyeliners; the liquid dries and locks down the first layer of color. First, apply pencil to the upper lash line, thickening the line as you reach the outer corner. With a light touch, slightly angle up and away from your eyes with a winged tip. Follow up by retracing all but the outer corner with the liquid liner.

#3. Make Your Eyes Pop. Jump on the colour-blocking bandwagon by using a contrasting colour on your lower lash line, such as Aqua Blue (I used Make Up For Ever Aqua Eyes in Turquoise), Deep Purple or Emerald Green. Apply mascara to top and bottom lashes – I never do my bottom because it’s not my thing.

Et Voilà! A perfectly balanced, incredibly sexy cat’s eye that is both geometrically-inspired and wearable at the same time. Pair your runway eyes with a nude or pale pout, and you’re smokin’.

An Unexpected SQUEE!: Sephora Premium Brushes

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You know that awesome feeling of finding a $20 bill in the pocket of an old jacket? Kind of like how I felt this past Saturday morning.

We were attending my dear friend’s wedding, and as much as I love my kids, I don’t love them as wedding attendees. (You know – Sit! Be quiet! Don’t take off your vest! etc, etc). And since my husband and I were due for a night out together – especially one that comes with an open bar – I thought it best to have grandma watch over the young’uns for the night. (Ryder had ring boy duties, but we hastily got rid of him once his role was fulfilled.)

So, Saturday morning.

I was rooting around in Ryder’s closet, trying to uncover some old toys that could be made new again through the magic of elapsed time. Way at the back, I saw a box… and when I pulled it out, I was amazed to see a brand new, unopened Sephora Collector’s Edition Premium Brush Set. The little rascal must have confiscated it without my knowledge – GRRR!

Now the product is no longer available for purchase, as it was Holiday 2011 special edition. I must have received it as a review item, but as any beauty blogger will tell you, we receive a LOT of make-up, and sometimes products slip away unnoticed. Still, many thanks to Sephora who obviously knew I desperately needed new brushes!…

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Faces By Farah: Make-Up Tutorials!

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My fave makeup artist Farah from Faces By Farah is now uploading some sweet makeup tutorials via YouTube, and I just had to share! Here’s the one I’ll be queuing up today: Easy Homemade Lip Plumper for Pennies.

Also on her channel: How to Keep Your Costume Jewelry in Perfect Condition, Paring Down Your Eyeshadow Kit, and more.

If you’re looking for expert advice and tips that you can easily follow at home, subscribe to Farah’s YouTube Channel!

Summer Beauty: eBeauty.ca

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NOTE: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

In the past, it wasn’t easy for Canadian gals to get the makeup brands they love all in one place. Often, it involved settling for the usual department store standbys, or making a trip to a major city in hopes of stumbling upon a cosmetics mecca. That is, until now…

eBeauty.ca is Canada’s newest online shopping destination for EVERYTHING beauty. Truly a one stop shop for hair care, skincare, cosmetics, fragrance, bath & body, men’s products and beauty tools, eBeauty.ca grants Canadians access to the brands they know and love as well as to the prestige and niche brands they crave.

Lena Loves:

1. You can find over 300 premium brands such as Fekkai, B.Kamins, Consonant Skincare and Jemma Kidd (to name a few) at your fingertips – 24 hours per day, 7 days a week. In fact, eBeauty.ca currently stocks over 7,500 products!

2. eBeauty.ca’s offerings are ever-changing, seasonally fashionable and several are natural and eco-friendly. Essentially, many of the products keep you and the environment beautiful.

3. The products ship from Canada, so there is no stress about brokerage fees, extra charges, etc. And it isn’t it wonderful having prices displayed in Canadian dollars? PLUS, for a limited time, you can score FREE shipping on orders of $25 or more! (Now THAT’s pretty awesome.)

4. The site is incredibly easy to navigate and I LOVE how the product overviews are broken into “The Basics”, “Why You’ll Love it” and “What’s Included.” You can also find information for suggested usage and ingredients, which helps you make informed purchases. In fact, the only thing missing from the site, in my humble opinion, is a section for customer reviews.

The wonderful gals at eBeauty.ca sent me a few “Mommy” inspired goodies to try out.

Pictured above, clockwise from left: Mustela “Hydra Bebe”, 100% Pure Organic Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream, Mommy Makeup “Mommy’s Kisses” and h.wood beauty Lip Shine in “Plum”.

Since I’ve been swatching up a storm through this entire event, I opted to enjoy the makeup later and immediately put the 100% Pure Organic Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream to the test. The promise:

– 97% saw reduction of puffiness
– 87% saw reduction of dark circles
– 93% say it reduced the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
– 100% say it improved skin hydration
– 93% say it improved skin firmness/elasticity

I was a bit skeptical at first, because frankly, the bottle resembled something I could put together on my own – no fancy packaging, instructions or sleek lines. But if there’s one thing mommies (especially mommy bloggers) have, it’s dark circles and puffiness around the eyes. So I knew I had to at least give it a try.

The formula is airy like a mousse and absorbs into the skin instantly. Did I mention that it smells exactly like a chocolate doughnut? It’s true! I know it’s supposed to be coffee beans, but I swear I thought I was in Timmies for a second. Perceived fragrance aside, the cream is 100% natural, 100% vegan, and gluten-free.

I used the cream for 7 days and while I can’t agree that my dark circles are dramatically lighter, I can say that my eyes are less puffy, have a smoother appearance and are generally less tired-looking. And at just $25 per bottle (which of course, ships to your door at no cost), I wouldn’t hesitate recommending it to a mommy who’s looking to change up her routine. Score!


eBeauty.ca is the ultimate online store for hard-to find beauty products in Canada. Makeup to skincare, nail polish to perfume, you can find and buy your fave cosmetics from the convenience of your own home, 24/7.

One lucky Listen to Lena! reader will win an eBeauty.ca Gift Basket, valued at $175! In it, you’ll find summer-inspired products from drool-worthy brands such as CARGO, stila, Jemma Kidd, Juara, Whish Hair and more – all tucked into a gorgeous clutch purse.

To enter, simply visit eBeauty.ca and find one (1) favourite product that you wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to a friend, OR three (3) products that you would love to get your hands on. Then, leave a comment here telling us about the item(s).

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena! (2 extra entries!)
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) NEW Follow Listen to Lena! on Twitter
(4) “Like” eBeauty.ca on Facebook
(5) Follow eBeauty.ca on Twitter
(6) Tweet daily: Please use this eBeauty.ca Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for a winner on August 21st. Good luck everybody!

Summer Beauty: FACE atelier Cosmetics

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The following giveaway is open to US and CAN residents.

If you’re a hard core beauty addict, chances are you know all about FACE atelier Cosmetics. For those who are new to the brand, may I introduce you to:

The official makeup sponsor for Madonna’s Confessions Tour
The preferred cosmetics line for TV shows like True Blood and Heros
The makers of Ultra Foundation PRO, found in Lady Gaga’s beauty bag

“Who is the FACE atelier woman? It is anyone who wants to look and feel her best, and knows that makeup is one of the many tools that women have to accomplish that goal. It is someone who more often than not, wants to start the day by putting her best face forward. Looking good is the best revenge against the trials and tribulations, large and small, that women face every day.” – About FACE

I’d been itching to get my hands on FACE atelier’s Facade lip colours. Facade boasts a one-of-a-kind, silicone-based, liquid-to-powder formula that provides a buildable matte color that sets with a natural glow. I was able to sample all five (5) shades:

NATURAL LIGHT
WITH FLASH

The first thing that threw me off with Facade lip colour is that it looks like a liquid – but is actually dry to the touch and applies like a powder. In fact, it’s pretty darn important to build colour gradually, or you risk having the product flake off.

Above, I swatched the shades with medium intensity; you could easily layer on more to reach true matte lipstick proportions. The product does have a drying time; therefore, you can clean up mistakes or make adjustments before your colour sets. And while it sets to a nice, natural finish. I recommend a top layer with FACE atelier’s impossibly shiny Lip Glaze.

Other products I love:

Lip RX: Indulge your lips with silky-smooth Lip RX, which lightly tints as it moisturizes and protects them from the elements. It provides organic ultra-violet protection, and is chock-full of anti-oxidants and essential oils. Available in three tantalizing sheer shades.

Shimmer: Colour your eye in ways you never dreamed using these ultra-fine, perfectly pigmented loose Shimmers. Our highly pigmented Shimmers won’t flake, are non-creasing and long lasting.

Ultra Foundation: The heart and soul of FACE atelier – an innovative approach to foundation that allows you to be in control. Ultra Foundation is a silicone-based emulsion that floats on top of the skin, doesn’t crease or flake, and lasts all day long. Hydrating yet oil-free, it obscures tiny lines and pores to ensure a smooth finish.


FACE atelier Cosmetics can be purchased online or at a retail partner across North America.


One Listen to Lena! reader will win a trio of FACE atelier Lipsticks, in Red Fuchsia, Pink Cashmere and Wheat (total value $66).

To enter, visit FACE atelier online and find another product that peaks your interest. Then, leave a comment here, telling us what it is.

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena! (2 extra entries!)
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) NEW Follow Listen to Lena! on Twitter
(4) “Like” FACE atelier on Facebook
(5) Follow FACE atelier on Twitter
(6) Tweet daily: Please use this FACE atelier Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for a winner on August 14th. Good luck everybody!

Summer Beauty: L’Oréal Paris

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Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only. 

I know a lot of beauty junkies have been waiting for this one… it’s L’Oréal Paris, baby!

“As the biggest beauty brand in the world, L’Oréal Paris has an unparalleled commitment to technology, research and innovation, providing groundbreaking, high-quality products for women, men, and children of all ages and ethnicities. L’Oréal Paris is notably dedicated to celebrating the diversity of beauty – the company’s broad range of spokespeople include for example Andie MacDowell, Beyoncé Knowles, Diane Keaton, Penelope Cruz, Aishwarya Rai (pictured right), Eva Longoria, Milla Jovovich, Laetitia Casta et Heather Locklear.”

Who doesn’t have a stash of L’Oréal goodies in their makeup bag? I’ve long been a fan of Colour Riche Lip Gloss, and their Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Lotion is THE secret to perfectly bronzed legs. In fact, I’m willing to bet that every reader has a favourite L’Oréal beauty product (or has dabbled in a little Superior Preference… shhh… I won’t tell).

I was beyond excited to receive some of L’Oréal’s hottest items for summer:

Pictured, from left to right: Infallible Eyeshadows*, Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara, Sculpting Blush Duo in Light, Sublime Mousse Haircolour in Pure Darkest Brown, Colour Riche Gloss in Chocolate Obsession, EverSleek Frizz Taming Creme Serum, Infallible Eyeshadows*.

*Details below. 

The first thing I did was pack away the Sublime Mousse Haircolour for when I dye my hair back to my natural colour ;) But from there, I was like a kid in a candy store!

Introducing Infallible Eyeshadow! These NEW shadows contain ultra concentrated colour pigments for an intense colour finish. They all have a cool, silvery shimmer that make your eyes POP with expression! The formulation combines the comfort of a cream with the ease of application of a powder.

(Click picture to enlarge.)

My jaw almost dropped to the floor when I swatched the first four shadows dry. Saying that the colours are intense is an understatement. These shades are VIVID – shy girls need not apply (pun intended, ha!).

“Eternal Black” has a crazy holographic shimmer that I simply must get on my eyes before I lose my resolve. I was incredibly surprised at the creaminess of the shadows; the particles have a mineral feel and melt gently on your fingertips. The result is a luxurious, velvety texture.

I rocked a decidedly safer look by mixing “Forever Pink” and “Hourglass Beige” for a pretty day look. A bonus: these pics were taken almost 10 hours after the application, giving credibility to the claim that the colour lasts for up to 24 hours. You may click the picture to enlarge.

Did you happen to notice how amazing my eyelashes look in the above photo? That’s the magic of the NEW Voluminous Million Lashes.

“The built-in Clean Sweep Wiping System wipes the brush free of clumps leaving the perfect amount of mascara for an ultra-volumized clean lash look. The Millionizing Brush evenly thickens lashes from root to tip. The result? Lashes look so multiplied, so clean, it’s like seeing millions.”

I’m a self-proclaimed mascara junkie and I give this product two thumbs way up. It makes your lashes look a mile long and does wonders to coat every lash from root to tip. Drugstore mascara over department mascara? Yes please!

Finally, this Treasure Troll has great hopes for the EverSleek Frizz Taming Creme Serum. Will report back once I’ve had a chance to put it to the test!


L’Oréal Paris products can be found at all major grocery and drugstores across Canada, and online at Well.ca.


One lucky Listen to Lena! reader will win ALL of the products that I received for review, for a total value of $150!

To enter, simply leave a comment with a recommendation for your favourite L’Oréal product (please be detailed!). If you’ve had yet to experience L’Oréal (shame on you!), you can visit L’Oréal Paris online and choose three (3) products that you have your eye on.

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena! (2 extra entries!)
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) NEW Follow Listen to Lena! on Twitter
(4) “Like” L’Oréal Paris Canada on Facebook
(5) Follow L’Oréal Paris Canada on Twitter
(6) Tweet daily: Please use this L’Oréal Paris Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for a winner on August 14th. Good luck everybody!

Summer Beauty: Vasanti Cosmetics

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The following giveaway is open to US and CAN residents.

Have I mentioned that it’s an incredible treat to profile all these amazing Canadian cosmetics companies? Next up: Vasanti Cosmetics!

“Made in Canada, and founded by three Canadian women, Vasanti recognizes that women have different needs when it comes to their makeup and have embraced an attitude of inclusivity in developing light-weight, easy-to-use products for all women. From highly pigmented shades to sheer washes of colour, from porcelain foundation to rich warm hues, our colours and formulas beautifully suit all skin types and tones. Vasanti Cosmetics aims to encourage women to celebrate and enhance their natural beauty.”

Since my last review, I must say that I’m addicted to Vasanti’s Liquid Cover Up Oil-Free Foundation and Concealer. In fact, I’ve been using it as a concealer for under eye circles in every picture you’ve seen posted in this beauty event. It has the perfect, creamy texture, goes on weightlessly and camouflages just about every imperfection.

This time around, I received some bright (excuse the pun), summery products to review:

Pictured, from left to right: BrightenUp! – Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator, The North Sea – Vitamin E Infused Lipshine, Caribbean – Vitamin E Infused Lipshine, Brazilian Bronzer – Brightening Mineral Powder.

I’ll come out and say it – I do NOT take care of my skin. I apply moisturizer exactly 16 times per year, reasoning that since I don’t wear foundation, my natural oils will save me from wrinkles (so far so good). Therefore my skin does get dull and flaky from time to time and requires a good scrub down; and that’s why I was very excited to try Vasanti’s BrightenUp! – Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator:

“Dramatically improve your skin’s texture to reveal softer, brighter and younger looking skin! Brightens with powerful papaya enzymes to give radiance, exfoliates with dermatologist grade micro-crystals and gently cleanses with aloe vera, coconut and panthenol.”

I was a little worried that my skin would turn blotchy and red from the “powerful papaya enzymes”, but I’m happy to report that after using the product, my skin was not irritated at all. In fact, other than a very slight tingle while I was massaging it in, the face rejuvenator was incredibly easy on the skin. It took about 3 separate applications for me to notice a tangible difference, but I must say that my skin really has perked up!

(In fact, one friend accused me of having a certain “glow” – to which I vehemently replied, “Oh hell no! It’s just Vasanti’s BrightenUp!”)

Next, I tried both Vitamin E Infused Lipshines. Here’s a peek at The North Sea, described as a nude beige with light reflecting shimmer.

Out of the tube, it would not have been my preferred colour as I found it the shade too neutral (though I did love the shimmery accents). However, once on the lips, the colour actually looked a lot more pink than nude and seemed to mesh well with my natural lip colour for a shade that almost anyone can wear.

But the real star of the show was the feel and texture of the gloss. There is absolutely no stickiness and it glides on effortlessly, conditioning at the same time. My lips actually started feeling better as I wore it, and I couldn’t resist pressing them together from time to time to soak in the moisture. LOVE this gloss.

Finally, LOVE the artisan packaging of the Brazilian Bronzer. I also love that the colour is buildable, goes on without streaking and is far from your typical orange bronzer – the colour is authentically golden.

I recommend you click the above picture to enlarge. As you’ll see, not a trace of Oompa Loompa in sight – it’s all Golden Goddess, baby!


Vasanti Cosmetics can be purchased at Rexall and Shoppers Drug Mart locations across Canada, and online at vasanticosmetics.com.


One lucky Listen to Lena! reader will win a Vasanti Prize Pack, including BrightenUp!, two Vitamin E Infused Lipshines, a Brazilian Bronzer, an Ultra Luxe Lipstick with Peptide Technology, a Micronized Silky Blush and two Pure Pigment Mineral Shimmer Powders – for a total value of $150!

To enter, visit Vasanti Cosmetics online and choose three (3) other products that you simply must have. Then, leave a comment here telling us what they are.

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena! (2 extra entries!)
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) NEW Follow Listen to Lena! on Twitter
(4) “Like” Vasanti Cosmetics on Facebook
(5) Follow Vasanti Cosmetics on Twitter
(6) Tweet daily: Please use this Vasanti Cosmetics Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for a winner on August 7th. Good luck everybody!

Summer Beauty: Faces by Farah

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The following giveaway is open to US and CAN residents.

Regular readers likely just whooped for joy – yes, it’s my girl Farah, and yes, there’s another HOT giveaway ahead! And even though she’s a local makeup artist, the giveaway is open to all residents of US/CAN!

I’ve long followed the career of Farah, a Makeup Artist and Beauty Editor whose incredible talent and passion have led her to establish herself as one of the premiere freelance makeup artists in the Greater Toronto Area.

Farah has a way of making your face come alive – bringing your inner beauty out. With an arsenal of the hottest shades and a keen understanding of different skin tones and textures, she will work with you to create your best look for all occasions – weddings, holiday parties, TV spots, photo shoots, or just because. But perhaps Farah’s best quality is her ability to make her guests feel comfortable and totally at ease – because makeup should be fun!

Don’t take my word for it – click on over to her testimonials page…

“I have had the absolute pleasure of working with Farah in both a personal and professional capacity. Farah’s strength comes from being able to turn her clients vision into reality, in a flawless manner. She stands apart from others as she is personable and easy going. Highly recommended!”
– Noorin H (Client)

Spending an hour with Farah getting make up done is like spending a day at the spa. She immediately puts you at ease, not only because of her professionalism, but because her own make up looks so good, you know you’re in good hands. Farah came to my rescue and fixed a make up job that another make up artist did the day of my friends wedding, and after that, I knew Farah would be my ‘go to make up artist’….
– Stephania C (Client)

And be sure to check out her portfolio!

(Click to enlarge photos.)

Farah is also one of Toronto’s most popular beauty bloggers, writing for Faces By Farah (her own lifestyle blog) and as a contributing beauty writer at MTV Fora. She takes the time to share product reviews, tips, advice and more on her blog – you can stop by any day, ask just about any question, and she will get back to you! She also features fellow makeup artists on a regular basis (did I mention Farah is incredibly supportive and kind?), allowing you to discover other talented gals in your area.

And if you’ve seen my posts about the Toronto Beauty Bloggers, meet the president of the club – yup, it’s Farah! In fact, many of the beauty brands participating in this event are here thanks to her recommendation. Thanks doll!

Want to win a year’s supply of BIC Soleil Razors? Head on over to Farah’s blog and enter her amazing contest. And, if you live in the GTA, please do contact her for your special occasion makeup – she’s FABULOUS!

Click here to visit Faces By Farah.


Farah has once again put together a prize pack featuring her favourite brands – including Mac Cosmetics, Cargo Cosmetics, Vasanti Cosmetics, Maybelline, Physicians Formula, L’oreal, Dermaglow, Givenchy, Burts Bees and MORE! The total value of the gift basket is over $400!

To enter, check out her portfolio and leave a comment here telling us about your favorite look. Do you like bold eyes and neutral lips? Or are you a fan of all-round natural look?

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena! (2 extra entries!)
(2) Follow Farah’s blog, Faces By Farah (2 extra entries!)

(3) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(4) NEW Follow Listen to Lena! on Twitter
(5) “Like” Faces By Farah on Facebook
(6) Follow Faces By Farah on Twitter
(7) Tweet daily: Please use this Faces By Farah Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for a winner on August 7th. Good luck everybody!