celebrity interview

Drew Barrymore Talks Her '90's Bad Girl Look & the Secret Behind Why Her $3.99 Cosmetics Are So Good

Talking with Drew Barrymore last week over white wine at Willow Road in NYC was like talking to Josie in "Never Been Kissed," the 90's rom-com she starred in that I adore.  She's like the girl you'd want to have at your middle school sleep over, exuding a down-to-earth, positive energy that makes her your instant BFF.  Wearing a hoodie under a flannel, a long floral maxi skirt, and dark lip pencil over her entire lip, she was Drew as the world knew her. "I'm channeling my inner '90's, bad girl red carpet look," Barrymore stated when asked about her lipstick.  "I'm doing [Flower] Toffee Lip Liner all over the lip with a baby bit of Chocolate Lily Lipstick on the inside," she explained.  

The key to her bad girl look: lip liner all over the lips.  It's one of her go-to looks.  "It reminds me of a time in life where I used to do that.  I loved wearing MAC Spice Lip Liner, those deep, rich chocolates that were on the verging of a purple eggplant and I missed it."

You'll be happy to know the former CoverGirl didn't just slap her name on a label when it came to creating her new makeup line, Flower.  After years of being in the industry she knew what she was doing.  Truth is, even though the 181 piece line is sold exclusively in Walmart with prices ranging from $3.99 to $15, the quality of the cosmetics compare to prestige brands. How?  They're created at Intercos, the same lab that formulates cosmetics from companies like Chanel.  Yes, a dirty little secret.  

Cat Deely Talks About Her Beauty Regimen, Fitness Philosophy & All She Wants for Christmas

I had the chance to chat with the host of So You Think You Can DanceCat Deely and found out what her makeup routine (or lack there of) is like when she's not on camera.  We also talked about her free-spirited workouts (I personally love her advice there) and what she wants for Christmas.  FYI her dream gift has nothing to do with diamonds.  Read on to find out more. 1. When not hosting “So You Think You Can Dance,” what's your everyday makeup routine like?

There is no routine! I try not to wear make-up when I'm not working. The skin is the largest organ the human body has and it needs to 'breath' as much as possible. But when I do apply make-up it tends to be very light and minimal- Chanel eyelash curler followed by Lancôme mascara. Also, Bobbi Brown concealer, Stila blusher and Clinique Superbalm in Mango. I think heavy make- up is very ageing; a subtle application looks much more youthful and beautiful.

2. What's your #1 beauty must-have and why?

I'm a big fan of a smile! They use less facial muscles than frowns, they make your eyes twinkle and nine times out of ten always get reciprocated! I like to keep a bright, white smile with Crest 3D White 2 Hour Express Whitestrips - they are so convenient, inexpensive and actually give my confidence a lift. I use them in a similar way to a face pack- every once in a while when I’ve been burning the candle at both ends or when I just need a boost.

3. How do you stay in such great shape? Do you have a work out of choice?  Trick?

The trick is to find a form of exercise that 1) Fits into your life and 2) You enjoy. I've tried lots and lots of different work outs in the past, but yoga and hiking are what I like most. I take my dog Lilly on a hike every day, just outside my house, along the canyon. I'm done in 40 minutes, and Lilly gets a walk too! Then I do yoga 3 days a week too- I have a great teacher called Camilla Bergstrom, she mixes up different styles and keeps it interesting.

4. What's on your holiday wish list this year?

Some amazing Monica Vinader jewelry. I love her stacking rings. Also, some L'Occitane home fragrance in fig. But my dream gift would be a piece of art by Harland Miller.

Lunch with Victoria's Secret Models, Erin Heatherton Spills Her Beauty Must Haves & Her Fitness Struggle

Picture this: a perfect spring day in NYC and the sun is shining in through the glass roof of Imperial No. Nine, the restaurant off the lobby of the Mondrian Soho onto different shades of pink roses that lined the long wooden table.  What looked like a chic bridal shower was just another beauty event, only this time I found myself at a garden themed luncheon for Victoria's Secret with three models: Lindsay Ellingson, Erin Heatherton (who I grabbed to chat) and Toni Garrn. 

The beginning of the event we were having cocktails and mingling when I asked Erin if I could ask her a few questions about the new fragrance, Love is Heavenly, and she pulled me over to the bar so we could talk in private.  After noticing her six inch Louboutin's I realized she probably needed to sit down and scored an exclusive, really raw interview.

"It's parallel to this kind of day we're having, a beautiful spring day," Heatherton explained when I asked her how she'd describe the scent.  "Optomistic and feminine, like being in love.  You know, the a quiet, playful happiness you have inside."

I couldn't agree more.  As a fan of Heavenly, which I used to exclusively wear when I was younger, Love is Heavenly is just as light with a citrus twist.  An uplifting daytime fragrance available in Eau de Parfum, Body Mist (my fave), Lotion and Moisture Cream.

As for other beauty must haves, she credits her great skin to Dr. Colbert, who's her go-to derm and loves his skincare.  "I like to have fresh, glowing skin and love cheek stain," she says.  "Besides that I use tinted lip balm and a lash curler."  After long flights or when she feels stressed to prevent pimples she rotates between Ren and the Fresh Black Tea Instant Perfecting Face Masks.  I've never tried either and can't wait!

"For a while when I was doing this job I looked right, but didn't feel good," she confesses.  "I ran, but it was a chore, until I started noticing results."  Growing up Heatherton was an athlete and never had to work to be in shape, when she hit her 20's, things changed.  "Now I put in hours sweating and boxing and it adds to my confidence at the end of the day.  Sometimes you don't want to be photographed if you don't feel right."

 

5 Questions with Whitney Port

There are a few reality stars I admire, and  Bethenny Frankel and Whitney Port are two of them. They've used their reality TV audience to help them build an empire and pursue their dreams as business women.  After her stints on The Hills and The City, Whitney launched her sassy clothing line, Whitney Eve, and now the designer has a new gig as a judge on Britian's Next Top Model, works as a Spokesperson with Crest and is about to launch a jewelry line.  I got the scoop on all of that and and of course, her fave beauty products.  Check it out. What are your must-have beauty products and why?

- Lucas Papaw ointment for its moisturizing lip balm actions

- Moroccan oil for moisturizing my ends

- The new Crest 3D White Glamorous White Toothpaste and Intensive Professional Effects Whitestrips to get my smile white and bright, and to keep it that way

- Fresh high noon tinted moisture for a sheer cover on my face

- Illamasqua cream blush for a dewy peachy cheek on my apples

Congratulations on your gig on Britain's Next Top Model. What do you think of the modeling industry in the UK compared to the US?  

I think the modeling industry there is exactly the same. There is the pressure to be thin, unique looking, have a mix of a commercial and a high fashion look, a great personality, be easy to work with and motivated.

How is it to work with Tyson Beckford?  

He was like my big brother. He looked after me and made sure I was always taken care of and protected. He loves a good night out which was fun to be a part of.

You've also just launched a jewelry line!  Who or what were you inspired by? I was inspired by various pieces of costume jewelry I have picked up along the way on my travels. When I am with my mom we will visit little flea markets and find so much cool stuff, so I did a mix of metals and chains and golds.

When you're not working, what's your guiltiest pleasure? Manicures and pedicures!

Mark Sanchez and I Discuss Grooming, Girls and Guilty Pleasures Over Dinner

Last night, my men's grooming guru (and hot bf), Joe, and I attended a private dinner with Mark Sanchez at Nobu 57 to celebrate the launch of Degree Men Adrenaline Series with Motion Sense Technology.  It was a super intimate setting, Mark brought his brother (who's also his agent) and the food was never ending!  Literally, we had about eight courses.  I had special vegetarian meals and when beef came around Mark would hide it from me!  The hottie Jets Quarter Back and I had some one on-one-time after our meal and I got the scoop on his playlist, dating style and why he cut off those beautiful curls. What's on your workout playlist?

I definitely have some '80's on there, but it depends on who I'm working out with.  If I'm with guys on the team it's Kanye, Jay Z, Lil' Wayne and stuff like that, but if it's me by myself I have the whole '80's gamut.  I just listen to Pandora.

You had gorgeous, curly hair.  Why did you decide to cut it off?

I don't know.  I think it looks more professional.  Not saying that long hair isn't professional, but being clean cut and shaven is a part of my position and my role.  It's also low maintance.  I don't use gel or anything, just a pomade.

Would you consider yourself low maintenance when it comes to grooming?

I'm not too flashy.  If I have extra time I don't want to waste it on my hair.

How did you manage your curls?

I wore a hat.  I didn't wash it everyday, because I heard you weren't supposed to do that.

What do you do to prepare for a date?

Shave.  I shave before anything important.  If I don't shave before a game my dad gets upset.  I want to look clean cut.  I also brush my teeth.  That's about it.

Would you wear a scent?

I like Light Blue by Dolce & Gabbanna.  I like one spray and then I walk through it.  I don't want to smell like an entire truck of cologne just crashed across the street.

What do you look for in a woman?

My mom has to like her.  Someone who's comfortable and understands the kind of lifestyle I have.  Even though we may be in an intimate moment or on a date that someone may want to come up and talk to me about a play.  Someone who understands.

What's your guiltiest pleasure?

Broadway.  I don't think it's a guilty pleasure, but I love going to shows.  I once presented for Memphis at the Tonys when they won for "Best Musical."  That was big.  I love Broadway and this is the best time to see a show.  I've seen almost everything, but there's a couple that I still want to go see.

As you can tell from the interview, Mark was fun and I was really impressed by his level of professionalism.  He even signed footballs and mini helmets for all of us (best gift bag ever!). He's definintely a ladies man though!  He made it a point to place napkins on every woman's lap as she got up and sat down.  No one minded!

Joe's putting the new deodorant/antipersperant to the test.  The new technology releases extra protection when the body is in motion to prevent sweating before it starts.  As you know, he's the type of guy that likes fresh scents, so out of the five options, his favorite is Extreme.  We'll keep you posted on the sweat diaries!  (Hopefully they're non-existent!)

5 Minutes with Dancing with the Stars Vixen, Cheryl Burke

Back in February I attended a Veet event in honor of their new High Precision Facial Wax  where they announced their new Spokesperson, Cheryl Burke.  The beauty girls and I sipped cocktails, checked out the new product and watched a private performance by Miss Burke.  It was like a sneak preview into the new season and I caught it all on camera just for you!  I got the scoop on her spray tan guru, past partners (including Rob Kardashian) and predictions for this season with new hottie William Levy. 1. How did your partnership with Veet come about and why does it work for you?

I am thrilled to represent a brand that understands the importance of looking and feeling beautiful in your skin and the freedom of long-lasting smoothness. As a professional dancer on television, these play a huge role in my daily life, so the synergy between me and Veet was natural and a perfect fit.

2.When not on camera, what are your beauty must haves?

My busy schedule doesn't leave much time, so my favorite products are ones with long lasting results. My go-to for hair removal is Veet In-Shower Gel Cream. It only takes a few minutes, but the results last up to twice as long as shaving. And of course, I always have a to have a fresh spray tan. I trust all my bronzing to JoJo McCarthy of Brown Buns in LA.

3. I'm a huge Dallas Cowboys fan and was super jealous when you partnered with Emmitt Smith for Dancing With the Stars in the third season. How was he as a partner?

Emmitt was one of my favorite partners. He really had the best work ethic and taught me so much about myself. He's easily one of the best guys I've ever met.

4. Last season, I was a huge fan of you and Rob Kardashian. What was your biggest challenge when being working with the reality star?

The biggest challenge was getting Rob to focus. But once we tackled that in the first week he really proved that he had talent and wanted to be there.

5. Your partner this season, William Levy is a hottie! Any predictions?

I predict that the women who watch our show are going to fall in love. He's nice and funny and determined. And not so hard on the eyes either!

 

Giuliana Rancic and I Talk Career, Beauty and Men

Last Friday I attended a private cocktail party in a suite at the W Hotel in Hollywood with Giuliana Rancic on behalf of DDF skincare.  Picture eight members of the media, Giuliana, her manager (and BFF) and two DDF publicists, it was that intimate.  Now I've met her before, but never really got to know her.  An hour and a half later, she showed me pics of her three Oscar dresses (one for E!'s Fashion Police), chatted about her crush (George Clooney), found out the secrets behind her skincare insecurities and regimen and of course, where she gets her hair extensions done.  What impressed me most?  She's one of the most honest and grounded people in Hollywood. Career

Rancic explained there are two types of actors in Hollywood – those who are a celebrity in every aspect of what they do and those who consider it their job.  She is a business woman.  Hosting and the empire she built is all her job, but she doesn't let it define her at the end of the day.  "I'm true to who I am in all aspects of what I do," she says.  "I'm a business person and a normal person in the industry."  In it for all of the right reasons, when overwhelmed she often takes a step back and reminds herself, "I'm not digging a ditch, I'm reporting on Brad Pitt."

Skincare

She's been using DDF skincare religiously for years and approached the brand about becoming the spokesperson.  "When they asked me to go foundation free at the Emmys last year it was a struggle," Rancic explains.  "My makeup artist and I played with different strategies so I would still look done under the red carpet lights."  Weeks leading up to the big day, they experimented on E! News with tinted moisturizer.  "If your skin can look gorgeous without foundation and a ton of makeup then you succeeded."

George Clooney

Balancing professionalism with her crush on Clooney has never been an easy task.  She confessed that when she started at E! she promised herself not to ask to interview him (even though she was dying to), but to let her producers assign it to her.  About ten years ago, when the day came she had eight minutes with him. "The whole time he was talking all I can hear in my head was, 'Will you marry me,'" Rancic laughed.  At the end of the interview she asked!  His reply, "The word 'marriage' sends sweat beads down my back."  Turns out, Rancic got kudos from the E! producers for getting Clooney to discuss the topic of commitment!

Relationship

"Bill and I know what's at the core of everything," she states.  "First and foremost were best friends and husband and wife and all of the craziness is for a common goal.  If we ride the wave now, one day it will all pay off and we can relax."  After the Oscars they were planning on heading to Cabo to relax with four other couples.

Cancer

"You can't control what life hands you, you can only control how you handle it," she says.  Filling her life with positivity, she's doing just fine.

Spontaneity Leads to the Unexpected, Bring It On!

It's amazing what you'll discover about yourself when you step out of your comfort zone.  Me – a super detailed, anally organized, to-the-minute type of girl who structures her freelance lifestyle to the T so she doesn't end up tumbling like a rolling stone.  The new me – still a super detailed, anally organized, structured girl who isn't afraid to be spontaneous. This past weekend I went on a press trip to Miami with Schick and the theme of the weekend was "Dare to be Spontaneous."  My "detailed" itinerary for the three day trip left out all activities and times of obligation and only included our flights, hotel and car service information.  I took on the challenge of this go-with-the-flow lifestyle, and packed a few rompers and bikinis.My favorite beauty girls and I didn't know what we were in for and all felt a little uneasy not knowing when we could fit in nap or gym time.  The next thing I knew, I drove a jet ski (never in my life did I ever trust my self to DRIVE anything before, let alone in the ocean), had a massage, a few cocktails and are you ready for this... not only did we sit in a VIP box at a Katy Perry concert, but we had a meet and greet with her too!  The craziest part, Russell Brand decided to interrupt it!

I had to ask Katy Perry about her guiltiest pleasure and her answer – cats!  "I used to think cats were c*nts, but after learning about them I like how you have to gain their respect.  I love having my cat lick my face."

Brooke Burke Dishes Her Guilty Pleasures

Last week around 3pm I was anxiously awaiting a call from Brooke Burke.  At 3:03 my phone rang and an apologetic Brooke immediately placed me on hold so she could quiet the kids.  The California based mother of four, model and co-host of Dancing with the Stars has landed herself yet another gig – a partnership with Suave, encouraging women to indulge in themselves without feeling guilty.  Hey, why not? You wear so many hats, what's your favorite and how do you do it all?

Family comes first always.  I love what I do.  I'm so blessed to host DWTS, love blogging and find Modern Mom very therapeutic, but all of that is the icing on the cake beyond my family.  I feel all of my jobs compliment each other so I can do it all.

Do you have any advice for young entrepreneurs?

Yes, set reasonable goals.  Write a bucket list of everything you want to accomplish.  I believe every woman should dream and have aspirations, but after writing your list start chipping away at them.

You always look stunning on DWTS.  What's your secret?

Less is more for me, but I love Cellceuticals, topical vitamin C's, a good gloss and mascara.

Have you always been into fitness?  What's the secret behind your beach body?

I do Pilates Plus, eat very healthy and believe in small, smart meals.  I've always been into fitness and have learned what works for my body and lifestyle.  It's all about taking out time for yourself, too.  As a mother, others come first, but you can't lose your sense of self.

How does that relate to your partnership with Suave?

That's why I was excited to partner with Suave.  Their campaign is all about "me time," which can be just ten minutes a day, even just enjoying your simple shower and making it luxurious with one of their body washes.  I make sure to take time out for myself to do things like work out.  It's all about being organized and making the time.

(You can visit the Suave Facebook page to enter their Smart Splurge Contest).

What's your guiltiest pleasure?

Cooking is my ultimate escape.  I love going to farmers markets and making salsas and sauces.  It's theraputic.  With four children and a family of six, the kitchen is my conference room.  I drink wine, red is my favorite, and light candles.

Katie Cassidy Confesses Guiltiest Pleasure to BeautySweetSpot

This week I attended an intimate holiday dinner with Crest at the Cooper Square Hotel penthouse.  Surrounded by views of NYC we all sat and ate a fab meal and got the chance to chat with Gossip Girl star, Katie Cassidy. When she sat next to me at the table I had to take advantage of the opportunity and shoot away.  First of all, I knew who she was from her role in A Nightmare on Elm Street and then Melrose Place.  But even more than that, because my mom used to be obsessed with her father, old-school heart throb, David Cassidy.

"I grew up in The Hills living a very normal life because my parents weren't together and I lived with my mom," Katie said.  "But when people told me how hot my dad was it was really weird."

As she's telling me this my mother is texting me while I'm at the table telling me how in love she was with David and that she used to see him perform several times a year and write him love letters.  I wasn't about to tell Katie.

Katie was a very sweet, down-to-earth girl who seemed to really enjoy herself at the event. I was dying over her lashes and even though she claimed they were real and credited YSL mascara, I knew she wasn't telling the whole truth!  I'm sure YSL mascara had something to do with them, but I'm sure lash extensions should have deserved 90% of the credit.

When I asked what her guiltiest pleasure was she laughed and said listening to Fergie's "Working On My Fitness" while working out.  I can't argue with her there!

Exclusive Interview: Daisy Fuentes Talks Mysterio and Beauty Secrets

Last week I attended a launch event for Daisy Fuentes' new perfume, Mysterio.  I'm super picky when it comes to scents because I always want to wear one that defines my personality and most of them give me migraines.  That being said I normally never actually keep the scent gifted at fragrance events. The concept behind Daisy's new perfume with Beauty Bank Inc. captured my attention and needless to say, I loved the way the scent smelled on me!  It's a keeper.  I got to chat with Daisy separately about the scent and her fave beauty finds:

1. What was your inspiration behind the scent?

I wasn't trying to come up with a fragrance.  I wrote a book, "Unforgettable You," and the scent was an outgrowth of the writing so it was very organic.

2. What's different about this scent that separates it from others?

Because we made it with a blend of several musks it smells different on every woman.  The concept is that each woman can embrace her own individuality.

3. What's your bed time skin care regimen like?

Pretty normal, but it's one of my favorite things to do at the end of the day.  It really helps me to destress and unwind all over.  It's not just about cleansing my face and removing my makeup.  It's about escaping the day, cleansing my mind and winding down.

4. What are your favorite products?

I love Palmers Coconut Oil.  I even use Palmers moisturizers as under eye moisturizer.  It's so rich.  I don't think a product needs to claim that it's for the eye area to show good results.  I also like Aquaphor moisturizer for my lips and of course, anything La Mer.

5. What's your guiltiest pleasure?

Having freedom.  As I got older I realized I don't have to be busy all the time.

Exclusive Interview: Bethenny Frankel Talks Fashion & Beauty Post Baby

This year during New York Fashion Week I stopped by the Robert Verdi Luxe Laboratory on the last day.  I normally always go earlier in the week, but I was so swamped this year, I had to wait and I'm glad I did.  As I was finishing getting my hair styled by Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spas in his suite, none other than Bethenny Frankel walked in to have her makeup touched up by Stila. First of all I have to say, I've always been a Bethenny fan, but after meeting her I'm team Bethenny even more now. Much prettier in person, I can't believe the woman had a baby in May.  Wearing a sophisticated navy structured dress and grey pumps she came in with her hair blown out (like every day) and no makeup on.  After leaving the Robert Verdi Suite she was going directly to do a taping for Rachel Ray.

Since becoming a mom has anything about your style changed?

I think twice about wearing promiscuous clothing.  If I think it may be too short, it is. When in doubt, I don't wear it anymore.  I keep things simple, dress in color and wear good accessories.

What's your go-to accessory?

My wedding ring.  When I'm not sure what to wear I always stick with my solitaire diamond necklace.

Has your beauty regimen changed since you had Bryn?

Not really.  With me, it's all or nothing.

Read more after the jump....

Did you learn a lot about pregnancy and parenting from your friends?

I really didn't take any unsolicited advice.  People freak you out.  Chances are none of those crazy things will happen to you.  I learned as I went and things are great.

What's do you carry in your purse at all times?

Lotion.  My skin is very dry and baby wipes.

What's your guiltiest pleasure?

I don't believe in guilt.